The New Invention, ENTITLED, CALLIGRAPHIA: OR, THE ART OF FAIR WRITING: Wherein is comprehended the whole necessary Rules thereof; by which any who is capable and careful to learn, may without the help of any other Teacher, under GOD, both be informed concerning the right writing of the most usual Characters in the World; and perfectly instructed how to write one of the most frequent in Europe, called the SECRETARY.  
Brought to a Method, for the universal use both of the Youth, and of all who have either wanted or neglected the occasion of Learning in their youth.  
BY HIS Majesty's SCRIBE, Master David Browne.  
SAINCT-ANDREWES, Printed by Edward Raban, Printer to the University. 1622. With Privilege.   

The sum of the Author's Privilege.  
JAMES, BY THE GRACE OF GOD, King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, defender of the Faith; With special advice and consent of the Lords of Our Secret Counsel: In consideration of the exquisite Travels, and great Charges, made and sustained by our well-beloved Subject, M. David Browne, in Inventing of this Work, Making of Types thereunto, and Printing of the same: and yet some that slept, when he awoake in doing of the same, may frustrate and prevent him in the expectation of his so tedious and sumptuous endevoures; and that by divulgating of the said Invention in their own favours, if remedy be not provided. Therefore, wit ye Us, with consent foresaid, To have given and granted, and by Our Letters of gift, give and grant unto the said M. David Browne, his Heirs and Assigneyes; The only Licence and Privilege to cause Imprint this Book, as oft ●● need requireth; and that for the space of Many years: And to have prohibited, and by Our foresaides Letter● prohibit, All Our Subjects, that none presume to Print, or cause Imprint the same either in English or Latin; nor yet bring home, buy or sell any extract thereof, Without the special advice of the said Author, or his aforesaides: Under the pain of 1000 Pound's Money, to be● incurred by the Contraveners; whereof the one half to redound to Our own use, and the other half to his, or his foresaides use, with Confiscation of all and whatsoever Books shall happen to be Imprinted, Bought, Sold, or brought home, wherever they can be apprehended.   

TO THE MOST MIGHTY, AND RENOWNED MONARCH, JAMES, By the grace of God, King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, Increase of prosperous Days here, & perpetuity of felicity hereafter.  
IT is said, (dread Sovereign) by Solomon, that great King of Wisdom, Virtue, and Peace, that a King's favour, is like the dew upon the grass: as if he should say, that the commendation, or loving countenance of a King to Virtuous Works, both encourageth the Workers, and maketh the Works more and more to flourish within his Kingdom, according to that other Proverb, Virtus laudata crescit. The efficacy and validity of either of these, I, (though a very mean Instrument of a very mean Work, have found to be accomplished by your Highness, (whom GOD hath endued as another Solomon, with the like Princely Prerogatives, whose Name therefore be praised) and that a● divers times, but chiefly at your Majesty's last being in your Highness' Palace of HOLY ROOD-HOUSE, after inspection of some of mine own Exercises of FAIR WRITING, with certain rare practices of a nine-yeare-olde Disciple, which I then taught, & at your Highness superscribing of my former Privilege. For the which Royal Testimonies, and especially for the Privilege, (which I esteem the Seal thereof) I most humbly render all hearty thanks unto GOD, and to your Majesty through HIM, in whom I hope to prove your trusty Servant to the death.  
In memory, consideration, and boldness whereof, I have both with the better courage, and greater expedition, enterprised and accomplished this difficile Task, in finding out a way how Writing may be learned by Reading: and that for the regard I own to the glory of GOD, who is the Author of all sorts of Virtue, of which the dexterity of Writing is one, your Highness' pleasure, who under HIM, is the maintainer of all Virtue, within your Royal Kingdoms, the Commonwealth of them all, which springeth from the Fountain of all Virtue, & to mine own credit, which I own both unto GOD, of whom I hold my mean Talon, your Majesty's self, Prince CHARLES, your dear and only Son, to all your Highness' Loyal Subjects of this your Majesty's famous Realm of SCOTLAND, and especially the Secret Counsel, Nobility, College of justice, Universities, and chief Cities thereof: (where I was borne, brought up, and do spend my days:) which (albeit not very worthy of itself, yet because it justly belongeth unto your most Sacred Majesty, being both bred in your Highness own Realm, and the first fruits of this kind that ever did grow therein) I therefore, according as appertaineth, more for mine own duty, than its valour, with hearty affection, most humbly propine unto your Majesty's most Royal Person, as Master of all the Ground, next unto JEHOVAH, (to remain under the Saveguarde and protection of your Highness, and your happy Successoures' favourable Patronage, and Imperial authority, for a common use:) and I recommend your Highness' self, with all your most Princely Progeny, to the blessed Tuition of the most mighty KING of Kings, during your Reign in the Earth; and to HIS joyful Fruition, to reign everlastingly with HIM in the Heavens: In whom I rest, while I breathe,  
Your Majesty's Subject, and humble Servant, DAVID BROWNE.   

TO THE DILIGENT READER, AND PRACTIZER OF THIS BOOK.  
AS no height (good Friend) can be attained unto, but by the order of degrees, beginning at the lowest, and by little and little aspiring unto the highest, without omission of any; even so, no man can rightly conceive any Science, Art, History, ●r Discourse, except he understand the beginning, midst, ●nd ending thereof, howbeit the usurping and covetous inclination of all men, (for the most part) would be ●n an instant at the very height of a thing, (as oftentimes they imagine themselves so to be) before they pass the first six steps thereof, when as it containeth sixty: but in so doing, that their impatiency oftentimes throws then farther down, than their furious imagination raised them up. For as rash Writing proveth unprofitable for learners to write; so hasty reading of the Art thereof, will avail little unto those who would practise the same, according to these Proverbes, which have some affinity together, Legere, & non intelligere, negligere est: And oftentimes, The more haste, the less speed. The practice of the one, a great frie●●● to Ignorance; and the other, a loving brother unto Idleness. And as he is not the owner of the Fruit of ●● Orchard, who leapeth in over the Dykes thereof, and pilleth the Fruits before they be ripe, not daring to enter at the Yate of the same: even so he who turneth over many Leaves in the midst of a Book, without due consideration what is contained in each one particularly, and orderly, (with the revolution thereof) as it standeth, and entereth not at the beginning, may well get some tasting of green Fruit, to asswadge his appetite a while, (though he spill his Teeth:) but the right use of all indeed belongeth unto him, who is the Master of the Keys and Entry, walketh thorough orderly as he● listeth, and but plucketh as be eateth. We see they are not the fattest Sheep which make most travel, and over-hale their meat, when they have plenty; but th●se which make a slow pace, rest themselves oftentimes, and ruminate, or revolve, that which they gather.  
Therefore, since there is little pleasure, without soon industry, and that few things can be blown up at once, like Glasses, neither by action, nor consideration; have a little patience, (I pray thee, both for thine own profit, and my credit) to read, consider, and practise this Work, even forwardly, as it is set down, without a●●● omission at all, and as little intermission as thou mayest, lest thou hardly escape the former inconvenients, and by occasion thereof blame me innocently for thine own fault.  
I confess, it is fare yet from that sublimity of stile. whereat I hope it will be: yet accept of it as it is. (as a Pledge of my Love) until it shall please GOD that I amend it: for the Building can be but sober, which is begun, accomplished, plenished, and garnished, all in such haste, without both longer deliberation, and greater preparation.  
If any part hereof may seem either obscure or doubtful, (as I trust there be few) misconstrue not mine intention and meaning therein, because it tendeth to ●hy weal, in so far as I am able: but I advise thee to seek resolution rather of those who be well experimented, ●han either to rest in discontentment, or yet pronounce ●ash Sentence against a party unsummoned: for sometimes a fault will appear to be, where it is not.  
And if thou, through thy diligent searching, and se●ere examining, find some indeed, (as at this time I cannot altogether cleanse it) judge very charitably: and ●he rather because it is fare easier to find a fault in a Work even well wrought by another, than to work the ●ike thyself without a fault, found by some other who perhaps cannot do so well. I have seen a young Mason, that could scarcely hue a Stone, espy a defect in a fair Palace, accidentlie in one day, which an hundreth, each one whereof more Skilful than he, have been ●eaven years in building.  
So, it is very easy unto thee, having as it were another man's Candle in thine hand, to behold him, and his doings therewith▪ for thou holding it up unto him while as he writeth, and thou the mean time standing idle ●hy self, thou mayest easily perceive when he writeth wrong: because, though his face be towards the Pap●● as thine is, yet his mind is bended to many airthes at once, and thine only to one: he hath to consider, and to choose out of many things what is best to be written, as also both what he hath written, and hath to write, the Matter, Indictment, Method, Language, and Letters, but thou hast only to take notice what is done, and the manner of the doing: he hath not only thee to please in his doings, but another who perhaps hath as c●rious an head, and yet of a contrary mind: the third of another opinion: and so forth. And therefore, though one man could do never so well, it is very hard, yea, impossible for him to please multitudes, because of his one opinion, device, plot, and conceit, and of their plurality and diversity of opinions, devices, plots, and conceits.  
In like manner, because it is fare easier to find a fault, than mend a fault, if in my time thou come speed by finding, I hope thou wilt play the part of a discreet Premonitor, and either advertise me thereof mildly and favourably, that I may timouslie amend the same, i● the next Impression, (GOD willing) and I will gi●● thee heartily thankes for thy good will: or if thou wil● not, I beseech thee, to pass by the same with silence and modesty, until it be repaired, either by me, or so●● other. But if otherwise thou make choice to declare the same to others, who perhaps will rather make it ridiculous, by jesting; than blameless, by amending, thou manifestest as much thine own folly, as my negligence▪ for none live without faults, and though thou com●●● not such, yet perhaps an hundreth worse daily: for in so doing, thou both wishest, and seekest, rather the infamy of one, wherewith to feed thy solatious and fantastic humour, than the common weal of all, whereat thou art bound to rejoice.  
Again, if indeed thou makest choice to become a Challenger and detractor of others, by thy scandalous or slanderous report, it is a sure token that thou art destitute of wisdom and discretion thyself: yet if thou hast any courtesy, or gentility, though never so little, I am persuaded thou wilt neither steal a dint of me behind ●y back, yea, scarcely before my face, until thou first advertise me, that I may be as well guarded with correspondent weapons to defend, as I have here armed ●hee wherewith to pursue: I mean, thou wilt not fail ●irst to choose some new Subject, which hath never been emplie written of before, (without any colouring of ●ther men's Works) and writ as largely thereon, as I, under GOD, have done of this; that, if it be possible, I may catch the like advantage thereby of thee, and pay thee home again therein, by showing thee at ●he least a Moat in thine Eye, when as I have removed the Beam out of mine own eye: or else if thou wilt not, but remain a Coward, or an empty Vessel, making a great noise, and yet containing nothing but wind, it becometh thee to hold thy peace altogether, and contain thy wind within thyself, rather as blast it forth upon others.  
So having no farther occasion in this place, to detain ●hee from this good occasion itself, I remit thee thereunto: only entreating thee, whether thou be a friend, or a foe, as thou takest hold thereof, to give GOD the praise of what pro●it thou reapest hereby: and as for 〈◊〉, HIS frail Instrument in this behalf, if I incu●●● no dispraise, I shall rest fully and gladly contented.  
Thus, wishing the event of this thy business, t● be according to mine expectation, good will, and affecti●●▪ For, if thou be a Friend, Nature teacheth me to l●●● thee: and if thou be a Foe, Grace teacheth me to forgive thee, yea, and to render unto thee good for evil: howsoever, therefore, thou behavest thyself unto me, I freely forgive thee, and do recommend thee now a●d ever, to the favour of the ALMIGHTY;  
In whom I am bound To favour thee as myself. D. B.   

TETRASTICHA.  

SALOMON, ECCLESIASTES IX. X.  

●hat good work thou canst devise, delay not to enterprise,  
●hile as Breath, Skill, Strength, & Aid thou mayst have:  
●r thou'lt want Invention, Wisdom, and Intention,  
●ter Death, when thou art laid in the Grave.    

PIBRAC, QVADR. 68 PAG. 719.  

● learn the most needful Art, bend thine affection,  
●ther than seek all, and get nothing well:  
●iue chiefly in thine own, to attain Perfection:  
● it is no small honour to excel.    

IBID. QVAD. 63. PAG. 718.  

●w many might (in time) have wise been made;  
afore their time, had they not thought them so?  
●at Artist e'er was Master of his Trade,  
●e he began his Prenticeship to know?    

CATO, Lib. 4. praecep. 29. But extended and applied unto Writing.  

●ensoever to learn is no shame to any,  
● ignorance both shame and Skaith to many:  
●d though in a year thou canst little Latin attain,  
● in one day thou mayst learn to write thy Name.     

ON THE BOOK.  

WHerefore, O SCOTLAND, art thou called so 〈◊〉  
Since in Thee such abundance of Virtues breed?  
All sorts of Policy, rare and singular Men,  
And having such plenty, wherewith thine own to 〈◊〉  
Nations have at thine high Cedars admired;  
Such as Wallace, Buchanan, and many one n●●:  
Some for Valiantness▪ some for Learning revered,  
And many other Gifts; which some have yet also,  
With whom, why may not this worthy One be 〈◊〉  
Whose charitable Travels here are worthy of praise?  
For hath be not all before him fare surmounted▪  
In this most renowned, and profitable exercise?  
By which he honoureth his Country, Friends, & N●●  
Beside the winning to himself of endless Fa●e.   
D. A.   

IN THE PRAISE OF WRITING.  

Rejoice all Writers, who live by the Pen▪  
For your Art with Royalty is clad:  
The honour whereof lay hid amongst Men,  
But now is universally spread.   

rejoice all Engravers, and Ye that Found  
Types for Letters of Writ and Print,  
●ince the Spring of your Cistern doth abound,  
And now runneth o'er the old extent.   

Rejoice all PRINTERS, whose Calling depends  
On Writing, that most ancient Art:  
For it your chief from whence yours descends,  
Is promoted in every part.   

Rejoice all Learners, who may, when ye list,  
Learn all times, by this magnific Worke.  
And All give GOD praise, who doth so assist  
This your Patron, that excellent Clerk.   
I. S.   

THE ARGUMENT, COMPREHENDING THE PREROGATIVES OF FAIR WRITING.  
ALthough this Subject may seem base, not being great matters, but BARE LETTERS, yet it is worthy of great promotion, both because it maintaineth all other Subjects, as shall be declared (GOD willing) hereafter, and that the right performance of the action thereof, called WRITING, is an Art as Honourable, Needful, Profitable, Rare, Ancient, Nobly descended, and consequently as Excellent as any other, which I prove by forcible Reasons.  
It is Honourable, for two of the most chief, the one grounded upon the rare practices of the most blessed, great, and rare PATRON, because it not only pleased Him to honour it, in writing of the Tables of the Law with His own Sacred Hand, (spoken so for our capacity:) But His Blessed Son, our only Saviour, bowed Himself in the Temple of Jerusalem, and wrote on the ground. The other Reason, taken from the practices of Man: for is there any King or Monarch in the World, who applieth not himself to learn this Art, although he should neglect and forgo all others?  
Needful, for other two Reasons: the first, Tending to our Eternal happiness: for it was inevitable and necessary that the word of the LORD should be written, that it might endure for ever: And though the use both of Writing, and of all that is written will expire at the Day of judgement, yet the same very word which now is written will endure eternally; because it is eternal, as both He is Eternal from whom it proceedeth as the Author, and He who is not only the Subject thereof, but the very WORD itself: Who by it will pronounce the Sentences both of Absolution and condemnation at that Great Day: and rather ere He suffer one jot or Letter thereof to be void or remain unaccomplished, Heaven and Earth will pass away. And the second reason, tending to the weal of our temporal estate, because without the use of Writing, and Letters written, no Estate in the World could stand: seeing it not only keepeth constant memory of Promises, Rights, and Duties, betwixt man and man, from Generation to Generation; but likewise goeth in Ambassage from Nation to Nation in all affairs, expressing men's Minds whose persons be absent, as if they were present. Indeed, without the use of Printing, the Estates of the World might stand, like as they did more than 5400. years, for it is not above 200. years yet since it began to flourish: and so there is not so great necessity in the use of Printing, as of Writing; for Writing must needs be, or else there could be little  order; but each one circumvene and spoil his Neighbour without remedy of justice.  
Profitable, for two respects also: first, because universally as many live by the practice thereof, in good estate, as by the practice of any other Art: and next, because Printing could scarcely ever have been, if Writing had not been first: for Printing was not only first devised by the occasion of sweirnesse in writing, and in-holding of maintenance to Writers; but likewise the first pattern of printing Characters, was made conform to written Letters: yea, Printing could scarcely yet continue, if it were not up-holden, and maintained by Writing: for what Book was ever, or can be yet, so well and easily printed, as that which was, and is first written; whereby it is certain, that Printing is as inferior, as it is posterior unto Writing, and that for three causes: first, because upon every occasion the minds of men may be fare better signified unto others in sheduls, and their promises performed, or at least, urged to perform, in securities, by the mean of Writing, than of Printing; seeing the one serveth in doing, preserving, and multiplying of any thing while it is in doing: and the other, but to preserve and multiply extractes of a thing already done. secondly, because Writing is practised by many, not only because it is necessary to all, but both because it is easy of itself, and the means thereof easily carried; whereas Printing is only practised by few, since it is neither needful for every one, easy to practise, nor the means wherewith easy to transport, yea, though even made in the most rare and compendious manner. And thirdly, were not by occasion of the worthy exercise of Writing, (as I have said) how could there ever have been any such preservation of Learning by Printing? any such manifestation thereof, by multiplying of Books printed? and by consequent, ever any such immortality, and universality of fame purchased either through Learning, or valiant deeds by mortal men, as now there be, of some renowned, in all Ages past? for a mortal fame, that is, an unwritten fame, may well survive him unto whom it belongeth, and continue the next generation after, but is rarely found in the second, except of some rare person: so then, if the famous remembrance of renowned men had aye died when themselves died, through defect of Writing, what could they have left of all their endeavours behind them? for was not Wisdom, Honoures, Learning, Riches, and such others, in the World before them?  
Rare, because by all appearance the secrecy and hid knowledge of all the precepts thereof, hath not been clearly revealed to the Youth in former Ages, yea, is scarcely yet, in any School whatsoever, except where this Book is diligently taught. And surely I marvel that so many Volumes have been written on all Subjects, Sciences, and Arts, (except this Subject and Art) in all Nations, in all Ages, and by all sorts of people, showing perfectly how to attain to the right knowledge and practise thereof; as also, that even so many sorts of Exemplare Books of fair writ, are printed, and extant, and yet none have showed any perfect way how to follow them without a guide, by writing the complete Art of Writing itself! It is true, some Writers, of some Nations, have written some precepts, how to follow some of the most usual forms of Writ amongst themselves; but never any SCOTTISH Man hath left any precepts behind him, how to write any form, either usual in his own Country, or elsewhere.  
Ancient, because certain it is, that Literature hath been from the beginning, and not only flourished long before the Deludge or Inundation of Waters, amongst the curious Inventors of Sciences and Arts, as appeareth by the charitable regard either of SETH, or some other, who for the benefit and weal of the posterity, caused write or grave the same on two pillars, the one of Tyle, to abide fire, and the other of Stone, against water: but likewise, not long after the Flood, amongst the Egyptians, as is evident, both by the Skill of MOSES, who being trained up in Egypt, that read the Tables of the Law, as soon as he saw them, and of the most part then of the Israelites, who being participant of the same education, that doubtless could have done the like action. And though sufficient warrant could not be produced, for approbation of these Assertions, yet natural Reason cannot be prejudged, nor frustrated of its own place: for what Librall Science or Art can be older than Writing, since every Librall Science and Art behoved to be written, both for helping the memory of the Author in inventing, and of the Students in learning: (howbeit Socrates in his time, was of the contrary opinion) so it hath pleased GOD, by the mean of Writing not only to nourish and train up, all Sciences and Arts in their infancy and minority, but principally to defend them so in their full age and majority, against all assaults of the ignorant, who ever have been, and yet are, professed enemies to Learning, that aye when as they destroyed any worthy work in one Book, it was found again in another: and hereby also, GOD be praised, was Antiochus disappointed of his malicious and devilish attempt, who commanded to gather together all the Transsumpts of the Sacred BIBLE, (as he supposed) and then caused burn them in a terrible fire.  
And Nobly descended, because no Art hath an Author more noble nor excellent, because the Author thereof is infinitely above all Nobility and Excellency: for doubtless GOD Himself, who is the Author of all Goodness, first devised and ordained it, as a thing good also of itself; and that either immediately as he marked Kaine, with some hieroglyphical or enigmatical letters, one or more; by the sentential signification whereof, he was perfectly and notoriously known to be a Murderer: or mediately by enduing others with the rare gift of Invention, as he did many Artificers, either at the building of the Ark, in the days of NOAH, or at the building of the Tabernacle, in the days of MOSES and AARON, or else at that incomparable building of the Temple of JERUSALEM, in the days of King SALOMON. Whereby it evidently appeareth, that this Art hath been invented by Divine inspiration; for doubtless as the Heavenly Scriptures are concluded with this caveat, Let no man presume either to add unto them, nor diminish from them, because they are so absolute, complete, and perfect, that they contain all things necessary unto salvation: so it lay never in any man's power in any Age, either to add or diminish a jote, to or from the number of those Letters which it pleased GOD to ordain, as so many strong Holds, Castles, and Iron Coffers, wherein to preserve these our happy Evidences, and heavenly Rights, from the violence of all Tyrants, and enemies of the Truth whatsoever: and for as few in number as these Letters be, they not only over-flowe all the Books in the World, and contain the Languages of all Nations, (although indeed fewer of them do contain some Languages, than others) but thereby any that are now living, may know the mind, and disposition of a man, who died a thousand years ago, & so in some sort have conference wirh him: which is no small Miracle, were not custom thereof (as of many other things) breedeth contempt, and misregard!  
So if all these Reasons be rightly weighed and considered, who can justly deny, but the ART OF FAIR WRITING aught to be as well ESTEEMED, because it is as HONOURABLE; as well MAINTAINED, because it is as NEEDFUL; as well EMBRACED, because it is as PROFITABLE; as great IN REQVEST, because it is as RARE; as high IN PLACE, because it is as ANCIENT; and as well REGARDED, because it is as NOBLY descended as any other Art? And thus much concerning the Renown, Necessity, Utility, Rarity, Antiquity, Authority; or, to reduce all in one, the EXCELLENCY of the ART OF FAIR WRITING.  

For the which principal Causes then, (as well in the Epistle as here) and divers secundary, which do follow, I have made choice to publish this Arte.  
FIrst, because of the measure of Skill I have from the ALMIGHTY, and considering that I might justly be called an unjust Steward of such a Talon, if I should choose rather to have it buried with me in the Grave, after I have served mine own use therewith, than to publish and distribute the same to the weal of others, both in mine own time, and after: which (I hope in GOD) will do more good ●a any careful Scholar in one day, nor possibly any Master Writer in three, without the help of this Book: because a view of the whole Art may be better seen, yea, resumed and considered in one day, by private and particular reading, than understood in many days, by his common and ordinary instructing: and though both were alike possible, yet it remaineth impossible to any Instructor, howbeit never so cunning, either to do the same in such short space, or, although he could, to endure with so great pains. Whereby it cannot be valued, (GOD be praised) nor enough considered, what great good the plurality, universality, and conformity of Books, multiplied conform to this Book, will do abroad henceforth, (if it please Him to make way thereunto) and that in many places at one time, and after one manner, to infinite numbers, as well of Masters as Studentts, as fare beyond and above all their disconforme practices of Art, as Right and Uniformity can be beyond Wrong, and disconformity.  
secondly, because not only Writing is a special mean whereby the Youth do attain to other Learning, in all Seminaries thereof, as well Schools as Universities, but in li●● manner Letters written, are the strong foundations, and fundamental stones, whereon that Great UNIVERSITY or ACADEMY of all LEARNING standeth, the sure Boxes, wherein the rich Treasures of all Learning are firmly enclosed, (which none can open but those unto whom it pleaseth GOD to lend the Keys of Interpretation) and the costly Rings, precious pearls and jewels, whereout of the bright Diamonds of all Learning do shine: Hence it cometh, that a learned man, is called a Lettered man; and Letters cannot justly be called Letters, at the least well known to be Letters, except they be rightly framed, and lineally set; neither yet can that be done, without right information and instruction; nor yet right information & instruction had, but by such as be experimented.  
thirdly, because there is not such uniformity kept amongst Masters of Vulgar Schools anent the grounding and training up of the Youth, in this virtuous and necessary Exercise, as need doth require; but each one teacheth in some pretended manner of his own, preferring the same to all others, though he cannot defend, nor prove it to be right, by any relevant reason, warrant, or perfect rule: whereupon it followeth, and occurreth, that young writers, unsurelie grounded, leaving one instructor, and going unto another, lose and forget ●he most part of all that they first learned; which is no marvel, because few of their forms of instructions do agree, as said is: while as in Latin Schools, when a Student goeth from one to another, he needeth neither ascend nor descend, but proceed from that self same Rule of Grammar, where he left off; which is a thing very commendable: because every man is not tied to remain constantly in one place, although he even have heritable dwellings; and therefore he findeth it meetest, that his Children be educated where he himself remaineth. The chief reason of this uniformity and universality of Latin, is, because there are constant, uniform, and absolute Rules universally for the same, like as there be for all other Learning, except only Writing: and the disconformity thereof, and defect of Rules for learning of the same, are the chief causes, not only that few men's writ, (except those who writ the universal ROMAN Character) prove any more profitable for their use, than their native Language, when they resort to any foreign Nation; but likewise of the scarcity of those who be both fine Scholars, and fair Writers, and of the rarity of those gifted with Fair Writing, in regard of the great plenty propined with Learning: For if in times past, there had been as conformable and universal Rules for Writing, as for other Le●ning, or yet now for itself; why might no● Learned men have attained thereunto by the● own private Studies, as unto farther Learning?  
fourthly, both because there be some o● middle age, who regrate the want thereof i● their youth, and some that rue the neglect o● the means; seeing hardly can the one sort redeem the time, or the other reduce the occasion: and for either of them this Book will (with the LORD'S assistance) be a sovereign remedy; seeing by perusing thereof a● an ordinary mean, so many of either sort as b● capable, desirous to Learn, and intent not t● go or return to any School, may yet obtain their intent: and that by careful Reading, and studying to perform that which they read; even as well as a mean Scholar being diligent, may by his own private travels, attain to a great part both of the knowledge and practice of any Science or Art, in reading of Learned men's Works, who have pathed the way, and made it strait and plain before him.  
fively, because there be sundry Students in Universities and Schools, who wanting the occasion of Learning to write within them, resort in the midst of their course daily to Vulgar Schools at certain hours to be taught: which, as it is incommodious, both because of ●he liberty and distance of place; so it is prejudicial to the course of their studies, since thereby they protract so much precious Time, that oftentimes their Skill proveth and cometh too short for their place: for what they have Learned, is better than how fare they have Learned; I mean, how much they have profited, is better than how fare they have proceeded. Again, in observing of these diets, they must not only be absent when their Condisci●les are present, and oftentimes most diligent, but will neglect the Latin language in familiar conference, and louse the reigns of the maternal or Mother tongue; yea it may be added that because they see greater ease in these Schools, than in others where they have a greater Compt daily to render, many of them do contract such a custom of sweerenesse, that shortly they will be forced to renounce all Learning, save only Writing, who perchance would both have been Cunning men, and sufficient Writers, if the sight of the enticing objects at these occasions had not interveaned. For remedy whereof henceforth, this present Work will be sufficient; and the more, because I intent to have it published also in Latin, whereby they may learn this Art in the Latin tongue, as easily as any other, or yet in place of any other Author, and nevertheless proceed in their course of other learning.  
Sixthly, and last, because there arise such contentions amongst Fair Writers, through diversity of opinions of Writ; and some times one of common Skill, esteeming most of his own Writ, at the least, conceiting altogether of some other, which he thinketh an A-per-se: and that none can be a Competent judge, in deciding of these Debates, for lack of a Grammar which should contain the whole Rules of Art whereupon to ground his Sentence: which defect proceedeth of the great carelessness of all Fair Writers, in all former Ages: for it is contrary to the practic of all such other incidentes and occurrences: because in any question, or disputation, amongst Scholars, concerning any Science or Art whatsoever, judges may not only discern betwixt Right and Wrong, but even qualify their determination by lawful warrants, and constant Rules, except only in contentions for writing: and yet not that I love, or admit contention, but do use all means to make peace: for instance, who can justly say, that the Civil Laws were ordained to make discord, but rather concord amongst all estates?  
And thus I, (at the pleasure of GOD) being stirred up, by due consideration of all the former motives, do my mean endeavour to supply all defects, & to reform all absurdities, and that by downe-setting of an infallible pattern or right Touchstone, of Fair and perfect Writing, and of a sovereign Remedy, or Recipie, for wrong and incorrect writing, both in one following hereafter: whereby henceforth all right writing may not only be known, and accordingly framed; all wrong writing vivelie discearned, and altogether eschewed, and all errors, which seem indifferent, exactly corrected: but likewise all contentions for whatsoever Writing so decided, as that the decision may, by Rule of right Reason, be warranted: and the work wherein any fault shall happen to be, either perfectly renewed, or fully rejected.    

THE ELEMENTS AND CONTEMPLATIONS OF FAIR WRITING: Containing the Definitions, Observations, Probations, and Divisions of the Art thereof: ●s also the Causes and Occasions of the Practice of the same; and that in writing of the most usual forms of Characters in the World.  

DEFINITIONS.  
CALLIGRAPHIA, Is the ART of Fair and Perfect Writing.  
WRITING, Is a Literal Supplement of the Voice, in exponing of the Mind.   

OBSERVATIONS.  
I Make choice of this Title, both for the rarity thereof, because (so fare as I perceive) none other Book of this Subject hath it; and for the propriety, since it is most proper thereunto, for it is framed of the Etymology of the word, signifying as much as, Scribendi pingendive elegantia; derived both from the Greek word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, id est, qui eleganter scribit aut pingit: and, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, i. eleganter scribo aut pingo: and composed of 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, i. pulchritudo vel elegantia, & 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, i. scribo.  
Though the Definition of Writing, may agree also unto Printing, yet it doth hold well enough, since the superior word Writing is general to both: always Writing may have a more particular Definition than the former, and be so proper unto itself, that it may exclude Printing, and this is it: Writing may not only be called a present framing and expressing of one Letter after another, to signify the articulate voice of the Tongue, whereby the thoughts of the mind are expressed to these who be present, and to interpret the mind, (without use of the tongue) unto those who be absent: but likewise a special means, whereby the memory of things by passed is preserved, and the foreknowledge of things to come revealed.  
Now although Printing may say, Framing and Expressing, yet it may not say, Present framing, and expressing: that is, both to frame and set down Letters, and therewith to express words and sentences at every instant, without the aid of other Artificers: for the word present is proper only to Writing, because the action thereof is ready and easy, to be prosecuted at every occasion, without the help of such secunda●ie means.  
Again, Printing may well say, Framing and Expressing of Letters in the plural number, but it may not say, of one Letter after another advisely in the singular: because it consisteth in stamping, or imprinting, of many Letters, (right or wrong) with one impression: for they may well be set in order severally, but the Impression must be together. But indeed, when they are rightly set, Printing in that point, is (as it were) the very persection of Writing, yea, and is so much more easy and commendable than Writing, by how much more it aboundeth in multiplying of Extractes, all alike cleanly and right: for thereby the word of GOD is much more manifested, Bibles at a fare lower rate, and the Errors of Papistry fare better discovered, than of before. For the which new Benefit also, we are bound to give the LORD ne● thankes, Who stirreth up worthy Instruments in ●● Ages, for the weal of Mankind.  
As for the word articulate, I thereby distinguish men's speeches, from other Voices: because Voices confused, and inarticulate, such as the voices of Beasts▪ Fowls, Fishes, and others, can no more be understood in the very utterance, (except (as some allege) amongst themselves) than expressed by letters: for letters are the articles or joints of syllables, syllables of words, and words of sentences.  
Though all manner of Subjecntes whereon, Instruments wherewith, and Means whereby we writ, be included within the reaches of the former Definitions, yet mine intention is to inform, and instruct the careful Scholar how to write on Paper and Parchment, with Pen and Ink, in the most constant and ordinary manner: and not to meddle with the rest, whether they be ordinary, or extraordinary; or whether proceeding of necessity, or curiosity, farther than mine information and instruction here a●ent, may agree unto them all, or any of them, either in whole, or in part.   

PROBATIONS.  
I Call the right use or performance, of Fair and perfect Writing an Art, because the Definition of an Art, given by cunning Authors, doth agree thereunto: for whether we define an Art with Aristotle, the Prince of Philosophers, to be an habit of doing, or working, according to the Rule of right Reason: or with others, such as Lucian and Ramus, to be a collection of good Precepts, tending to some profitable use of the life: who can lawfully deny, but both these Definitions may in competent measure be attributed unto it? And seeing few do perform, and practise the action of Writing alike, but some one way, some another; and fare more ● ashlie the wrong way, than advisely the right way; certain it is, there must be some secret causes wherefore one sort do write ignorantly, and another skilfully: for which contrarieties be more opposite, than Ignorance and Skill? And an Art could not justly be called an Art, at the least were not worthy of the name, if each one could attain thereunto without information and instruction, either vocal or literal.  
It is true, sundry oftentimes have taken up some pretended manuel practise of Writing, at their own hand, and have known little or nothing of the Art: yet because they could not be able to defend their doings, by any other Rule of right Reason, than the bare word Custom, they might well serve their own use therewith, but they could not be meet to instruct others, for lack of sufficient qualification: as for exemple, Though a young Philosoph, ready to be laureated, were never so perfect, if he cannot in some measure defend and warrant his own Theses, by Metaphysical, Logical, or Philosophical Arguments and Syllogisms, he is thought the more unfit to receive the Laurel: even so though any Master of the Art of Writing could do never so well with his Hand, if he cannot defend the same with his Tongue also by Rules of Art, he may well be meet to write concerning common affairs, but to instruct others he cannot; because the most part of all instructions do consist both as well and as much in Information as Demonstration, that is, in speaking as in doing: and it may be seen afterwards in this Book, that there requireth many other words to be spoken, than the former word Custom; and though it should be reapeated a thousand times, it still remaineth but one and the same; who then can learn or profit thereby? Indeed some other Customs avail much, but this nothing.  
Wherefore, such instructors are not unlike unto those who speak Latin, or sing Music only by the Ear, (that is, by oft hearing) and cannot defend either of them to be right, though so they be; whereas the other, may be compared to such as both do these things, and can defend them indeed, by indoubted knowledge, proven by relevant reasons.  
Likewise, they may be compared unto a sort of Friends (if any ways so I may term them) which we call fair fasioned friends, who in their complements will promise to do all things which in them lie, that may either profit or pleasure those unto whom they profess friendship; but when they are proved or charged with some one thing, they flatly refuse, and so transform an affirmative into a negative, a general fair something, into a particular fair nothing: even so if thou wilt now (I mean, at the first publication of this Book) enter in conference with some who profess themselves to be the most expert and fair Writers in the Kingdom, (yea, in the World, they will readily allege, if they be not contradicted) they will discourse so eloquently and Rhetorician-like, that thou wouldst believe at the first, they could do wonders, let be to know or do any thing whatsoever belonging to the Art which they profess, and take upon them to teach: but if thou wilt take any Line of their own writ, and ask wherefore such a Letter is fashioned, measured, conjoined, &c, that way rather as another way (which if thou canst, thou may prove to be better) they will not only cease from their discourse, but become so stupefact and dumb, that they cannot render one Rule of right reason, nor answer a word to that Question; and if any dumb teacher can be profitable in a Common Wealth, it is some good Book rather than a man.  
Moreover, such who have only a common jade-trot of practice with the hand, and know no Theoric in the mind, to utter with the tongue, may be likened unto such servantes as stand uncovered, holding or bearing a Pennar, Inkhorn, and Candle, while their Master's endite and write concerning any needful purpose; and that because there is no good stuff nor gifts in them for that or the like use, (but sufficiency for slavish service) in comparison of the other sort, but as it were so many dried Bladders, having a fair show without, and full of nothing within but wind; which, when they do crack, burst forth all at once, and leave nothing till afterwards: indeed I acknowledge mine error here, for this comparison will not always hold, because it is more pertinent sometimes to compare them unto Fisher's Bottles, which are so filled with strong Drink, that they froathe over, and cannot contain that fuming rage which is within them.  
Well then, it is hard to know, whether such Artistes, (if so they may be called) who can scarcely define, let be to defend, the Art whereby they live: be more ignorant, and intemperate, or they more blind, and negligent, (in that point) who employ them, in training up of their Youth: for how can any Instructor or Pedagogue, lead Children rightly in the way to Perfection, either of Learning or Manners, who never walked thorough the bounds of right Direction and Discipline himself? But as for the other sort, who are endued with these Gifts, which they want, and yet deride, can cast up infallible Rules, guarded with forcible Reasons, both of their Practices, and Instructions, even as soon as a fine Grammarian can defend any Latin phrase, by declaring and demonstrating the right Grammar Rule or authority of any thing, which shall happen to be impugned therein, and will likewise have some regard of Modesty, Temperancie, and good behaviour. And howsoever Writing may be done, without Rules of right Reason, yet fair and perfect Writing, must be accomplished by these Rules: and since therefore, it hath all the properties due unto an Art, who can deny it to be justly entitled by the name of an Art? yea, of a Science, (if I had choosed) rather than Printing.   

DIVISIONS. Serving likewise as an Index, by declaring on what Page every Division beginneth.  
THis Art divideth itself in two parts, one General, and another Special: the one comprehendeth all necessary Rules of Preparation whereby, beginning on the 1. page: and divers Rules of Information how to write the most usual forms of Characters in the World, pag. 31. And the other containeth the remnant Rules of Information, 45. And all the Rules of Perfection, how to attain to one of the most frequent sorts in EUROPE, called the SECRETARY, 144.   

SUB-DIVISIONS.  
THe General part is subdivided into two Sections, the first treating of the means whereby to write, pag. 1. And the second, of the manner how, 31.  
The first Section, is severed also into two parts, the first concerning the using of the disjunct means, or instruments from the Writer, such as the Pen, Ink, Paper, and Penknife, 1. And the other, concerning the using of the conjunct means, or instruments to the Writer, as his Hand, Thombe, and Fingers, 28. Also it treateth both of the gesture of his Head and Eyes, and of the position of his Body, while as he writeh. ibidem.  
And the special part, is subdivided into four Sections, each one whereof containeth one of the four Symbols, or Signs; signifying the articulate voice of the Tongue, and cogirations of the Mind: and these be Letters, 57 Syllables, 161. Words, 167. and Sentences, or Lines, 170.  
The first Section is distributed into eight members: first is set down the Preambles, and Introduction to Letters, 57  
secondly, the Letters themselves, with their number, in form, and by order of Alphabet: together, with the Variations, or Degressions, of all the variable, or degredible sorts thereof, from their original proportion, 66.  
thirdly, the Divisions, or Denominations of Letters, declaring their several sorts by their names, 79.  
fourthly, the Comparations, or Descriptions, of Single and Double Letters conjunctly, demonstrating and making each one equal with another of its own kind; and that by describing so many as have bodies, heads, and tails, and how many want them, 83. And then, the double Letters severally, showing their combination; that is, how they are made double, and united, 91.  
fifthly, thou wilt not only find the Entry which leadeth unto Perfection in the Art of Fair Writing, made open, and the Keys thereof delivered, 93. But likewise the Transition, or through-going, which leadeth unto Perfection itself, made patent: which declareth the gradation how, means whereby, and space how soon it may be attained unto, 96.  
Sixthlie, an Abridgement of the Art, containing ten compendious Precepts, each one whereof having its own proper name, (for memories cause:) and these be, Limitation of Capitals, Dimission of Square, Expedition, Proportion, Quantity, Situation, Conjunction, Distance, Difference, and Comprehension, 109. Together with a brief Alphabet conform to the same precepts; after the which doth follow the Conjugations and Formations of all the Letters of that Alphabet, both for themselves, and in place of all other Letters of this kind, whether in the great Alphabet, or else where; showing so many as be both conjoined and framed together of one fashion, though of divers Names, and begin proceed and conclude nearest after one manner: first ranked conjunctly or together, and then severally, that is, each one with the own Rule by itself, declaring the true progress and course of the Pen therein 121. Likewise two Verses or Lines of Writ conform to the said brief Alphabet; 113, with a Prologue, 109, & Epilogue, 116. All of them for the use of all Learners, but chiefly of such as would fain learn the common form of Writ suddenly; leaving all others unto those who may spare longer time, and take greater pains.  
Seaventhlie, an Narration, demonstrating ●owe many strikes may suffice, to cast each Single and Double Letter, before the Pen be ●aken off the paper, 136.  
And eightly, many of the Rules of perfection in Fair Writing; (each one whereof proved by ●n Exemple) which treat of the right pr●t ortioning, measuring, and situating, of Single, and inseparable Double Letters, and conjoining thereof within words, 144.   

As for the three other Sections, they are indivisible, and do contain the remnant Rules of perfection, which again do comprehend the Constructions of Fair Writing, or the right contriving, setting, and ordering, of Letters within Syllables; 161. Words, 167. and Sentences, or Lines, of Fair Writ, 170. and that even to the end.  
Further, the Special part of this Book containeth a General preface unto all the four Sections thereof, and the forenamed Contents of the same, 45.  
And last, the Conclusion; treating somewhat of punctes, and accents: as also Abreviations; and of the Effayres and Writs, wherein they be most used; and that in the end, 176.   

CAUSES.  
THe causes of Writing (as of other things) be four, the Efficient, Material, Formal, and Final; but more Metaphoricke than proper.  
The Efficient causes are twofold, Principal and instrumental, or Immediate and Mediate; the Principal Efficient is the Writer, because he (under GOD) is the special agent or user of the means, as well in applying each one to its own use, as by concurring and cooperating with them in doing of the action.  
The Instrumental Efficients are likewise two fold, living and dead, the living Instruments, be Members of the Writer his Body, as the Hand, Thombe, and Fingers; and the dead, (or rather; not living, because it may be alleged, that any thing which never lived can be said to be dead) is the pen only. And whereas I omit and exeme the Arm, which hath the Hand and Fingers depending thereon &c, and Penknife, which is the Instrumental Efficient of the Pen &c. I do neither of them wrong: seeing it is but the nearest causes which ●ertaine most unto this purpose; for it were ●oth needless and impertinent to extend the ●auses of Writing farther than need requireth. And while as the Hand, Thombe, and Fingers, are not always the Instrumental Efficients, seeing some will Write with their Feet and Toes, yea with their Teeth also; It is not any such accidental and extraordinary practices that I promised to speak of, because they are both tedious and needless, for if those persons were not maimed, o● else too curious, they would not exerce them: and whatsoever other Members they employ thereanent, do but supply the place of the former, which be the proper Instrumental Efficients of the action.  
The Material cause of Writing, or of Letters written materially, (that is, without signification) is the Ink, for as the paper is the subject whereon, so the Ink is the matter whereof: and so whether it be a common and cheap Liquor (of whatsoever colour) demonstrating the true lineaments and paths of the pen, as it proceedeth forth thereof in framing of Letters; or a rare and sumptuous Liquor, as liquid Gold or Silver, all do consist alike of matter or substance, though otherways they be not equivalent, but discrepant in valour; for all become dry alike soon, and none of them remaineth liquid more than another: but indeed if thou wilt look to the inhesion or penetration of Letters in the subject, the same is rather accidental than substantial.  
The formal cause of Writing, is the external shape of the Letter, whether it be perfectly or imperfectly proportioned; for albeit by the decent proportion of every Letter appeareth the beauty of all the writ, yet sometimes by the custom of right reading, the Sense of Words may be understood, though the Letters be imperfectly written: but we should no more presume hereby to do any thing in a wrong manner that it may be right, than to do evil that good may proceed thereof.  
And the final cause of Writing, is the former signifying of articulate voice, whereby the thoughts of the mind are interpreted, and the demonstrating of the mind without the voice; for as Aristotle teacheth, Writs or Letters are the Symbols of Voices or Words, (howsoever it may be thought that the Voice being invisible cannot be represented by any external Sign) the Voices Symbols of the Conceptions of the Mind, and the Conceptions of the Mind, Images of things which be outwith the Mind: and that both of Divine Writs and Humane.  
Of Divine Writs, it pleased the ALMIGHTY, by the mean and ambassage of Writing, to manifest His blessed Will to the World in all Ages, (but chiefly, and in greatest measure, now in these last Ages) concerning His own Glory, and Man's Salvation: which if thou wouldst know, (as thou oughtest indeed, because they are the two chief ends, wherefore it pleased Him to give thee breath, and bring thee unto this World: for all other thine errands, are but as so many parentizes, which will be very soon closed, after thou thyself art closed in the Grave, whereas these will accompany, thee, and go with thee to the Heavens,) thou must, with assistance of his Holy Spirit, search the Holy Scriptures, and there the Writs, or Letters, will be as Signs, leading thee to the gracious Words which did proceed forth of His Sacred Mouth there anent, (to speak so) and the words will lead thee to the conceptions, and notions, which were in His Blessed Mind, and the conceptions, as Symbols, will vivelie represent unto thy mind, those things which thou knewest not of before.  
And of Humane Writs, that is, betwixt man and man, when one is astricted to perform any point of duty unto another, by Writ, (because words are no sooner uttered, but they vanish in the Air, except either Witnesses be present, or the party all the more trusty) the Writs will signify the words which he spoke, the words will interpret the conceptions of his mind, (except dissimulation, which now aboundeth, hath made discrepance) and the conceptions of his mind, words of his mouth, and subscription of his hand, will tie, and oblish him to perform those things which he promised, and undertook to accomplish; and that either in whole or in part, according to his power: otherwise, if there were no Writing now, I suspect there would be little good order in any common wealth, or credit keeped, either amongst strangers, or neighbours, yea, scarcely amongst friends; in respect of the infidelity, and incredulity, which daily increaseth so much the greater, by how much the consummation of this great and universal Fabric approacheth ●earer.   

OCCASIONS.  
LAst, the OCCASIONS of Writing are twofold, The particular Effayres of the Writer, and employments of others; The motives which move the Writer, be likewise twofold, Externall, and Internal: The one is, when he writeth concerning his own business immediately, for some public respects, as when a Creditor pursueth a Debtor before an ordinary judge; The other is, when he is moved by some motive as yet privy unto himself, as when it pleaseth GOD to stir up any to be Author of some needful precepts, worthy to be put in practice, and the same not as yet manifested: And the Employmentes of others, whether they be the Writers Superiors, Inferioures, or equals, all of them, (as his Clientes in a manner) do employ him to write concerning their negotiations, mediatelie, and conditionally, either for favour, thankes, or recompense.  
Thus much concerning the ELEMENTS and CONTEMPLATIONS of FAIR WRITING; and although some of them may seem coincident, and ambiguous, yet (if so be) I may be the better excused, since a Sojournour hath no great shame to go a little astray in an unknown and unpathed way, wherein few before him have walked: always, for method and order's cause, I could not well omit them; notwithstanding mine intention be rather to insist in the external form, and beauty of Letters for the eye, as most pertinent to the practice of the Art, than to enter over deeply into any accurate description of their internal properties for the mind, because that is more proper unto a Science.  
Now for as much as I have not only declared what kind of Work this is, the use thereof, the causes moving me to build it, mesured and laid the foundation thereof, and given a name thereunto; but have showed likewise the causes whereof it proceedeth, the occasions of the proceeding, considered of the height, deepness, length, and breadth of the same before it was founded; and not only prepared all necessary materials for uppe-going thereof, but provided all necessary Furniture to be so affixed therein, as both building & plenishing to remain one, and the same, It followeth then in the next room, that it be completed: which (GOD be praised) doth arise to a great height, in the General part of this Book, and (almost in substance, though not in stile) is covered with the Crown of Perfection in the Special: & albeit some of the Rules of either part be affirmative, some negative, & some partly both, (for explications cause) yet they must not be ranked according to the method of the Rule itself, but rather keep such place, and comely order, even as is requisite for the nature of the Subject.  
And so immediately they begin.    

THE GENERAL PART OF THIS BOOK.  

Sect. I. Comprehending all the Rules of Preparation, concerning the means whereby to write the most usual forms of Characters.  

THE DISIUNCT MEANS FROM the Writer.  

Concerning the Penknife.  
LET the Penknife be of a span in length; two parts thereof being Haft, and the third part Blade: the haft either square or round, and somewhat decreasing small unto the end, for the slitting up of the cleft of the Pen. And let the Blade be made cleanly sharp, and so kept (by the means of whetting) always for its own use.   

The qualities and tokens of the best Pens.  
CHoose Raven and Goose Pens for any writ upon Paper, and small writ upon Parchment; and Swan or Briszell pens for great writ upon parchment. Take few of either sort, but such as be somewhat strait of staulke, long and great of pipe, round and hard through out, but chiefly at the highest part thereof next the staulke. And if the Goose pens have whole feathers on them, the pen whereof the feather hath a hollowness on the right side of the staulke, (and some time on the left) almost at the head or point of the feather, is only the best, whether it be the second or third of the wing: as for the first and fourth Quill, they are seldom found to prove good. But if thou findest none of the former two sorts when thou wo●ldest, or finding any Raven or Goose pens whatsoever, not having the foresaid tokens or marks, refuse them altogether, except only in great necessity. For what availeth it to make evil pens, though they may be made never so well, if when they are made they writ not well? Always, since pens cannot be aye had alike good, I will not discourage any, but rather inform them in the subsequent Rule how to use the nearest remedy: only here, in stead of these evil second and third pens, I advise thee to make choice of the best sort of first pens, rather than the fourth: that is, such as have maniest of the forenamed five qualities: for albeit they have all commonly some that be bad, as crookedness, shortness, and oftentimes smallness, yet naturally the most part of them have as many also that be good, such as roundness, hardness, and sometimes greatness.   

The manner how to form the Penne.  
AFter the Quill is made hot amongst the ashes of the fire, and well rubbed (being wet with thy mouth) first with the back of a Knife, and then with a woollen cloth, let it be fashioned in this manner:  
First, let the Knife slent down the fore part or face of the Quill, (being holden upwardes) which if it be strait, is known only by the hollowness in the midst of that self same side of the stalk: or being crooked, is perceived aswel by the crookedness as hollowness. But beware ye cutany more than half thorough, that is, the piece not quite taken off. Thereafter, turn the Quill about, and cut the other half on the back, just forenent the other half cut on the fore side: to wit, a shorter slent, which cometh away (with the former) from the Quill, whereby remaineth two sharp points at the end.  
secondly, holding the quill so still, begin the cleft rightly in the midst of the last half cut; and rive it quickly up, but not fare; and that either with the end of the penknife, or with that piece of the quill which ye cut off, (it being holden on the point of the knife) as ye shall find most convenient.  
thirdly, turn the quill justly about again, with the face upwards, as it was first, and begin forenent the highest part of the cleft, and cut it down cleanly on either side, both either proceeding alike, or one after another, as thou pleasest, till it decrease to such a slenderness, or smallness; or continue in such a fullness, or greatness, as thou wouldst have thy letters or writ to be.  
fourthly, cut down the mouth evenly, the length whereof not to exceed twice the length of the cleft; and let it descend by such diminution or abatement, as it may desist and leave off with some height upwardes from the cleft, equally on either side: the lowest part whereof being aye right forenent the highest part of the cleft; to the effect the point or neb of the pen may remain strong, and so both serve its own use the better, and endure the longer. And if it be not cleanly riven, then must thou either pair it lightly on the back, essey to slit it somewhat farther up, or else lose it.  
And fifthly, coll or cut the point cleanly and evenlie at once, either on the nail of thy thumb, or on the staulke of another pen, and that after three manner of ways, because all pens may be considered in three sorts, good, ill, and indifferent.  
NOTA. By the way remember, while as thou callest the pen, to hold thine eyes so close, that although the cutting spang upwardes, (as it usually doth) it get no enters into any of them, to impede or hinder thy sight.  
ALIA. As for that old Rule, DEXTRA PARS PENNAE, LEVIOR BREVIOR DEBET ESSE; I reverence the good intention of the Author thereof, in that behalf, but find no necessity in the observation: because naturally while as the pen is holden to write with, it lieth somewhat over to the right side: by which means that side weareth both thin & short enough of itself, though it be not so made nor mended: and therefore the foresaid precept can have no force, because it hath no repugnance.  
A good Pen, I say, is hard or strong, which if thou wouldst either make or mend, let it aye have so long a cleft or passage thorough the same as may easily vent or deliver the Ink, and be made small on either side, to the intent it may both write cleanly, and mend often, without further ryving up, because it is strong of itself: And, notwithstanding of the smallness thereof; it will not only write great in respect of the long reach of the cleft (and so going further in breadth) by sad thrusting or laying to, but likewise small thorough light thrusting or laying to: & therefore, & because of the ready passage of Ink thorough a long cleft, and so the pen enduring to write the more cleanly, as likewise serving and suffering to be oft mended with little travel, and without further riving up, and consequently so much the longer unspent, it is a good sort of Pen.  
An evil pen, is that which is supple or weak, which when thou makest, or mendest, must have a short slit, and be suffered to remain great on both sides, because it is weak; and in regard thereof hath neither strength to reach fare in breadth, nor suffer to be sad laid to the paper: and therefore, and because of the evil delivery of the Ink from a short cleft, which can neither be mended, unless it be riven farther up, and by means thereof so much the more of the pen wasted, nor yet endure to write cleanly, it is an naughty sort of pen.  
And as for the indifferent sort of pens, which are neither too hard, nor too soft, but equal, let an indifferent mediocrity be kept betwixt the length and shortness of their cliffs, as also betwixt the greatness and sinalnesse of either side thereof, and that both when thou makest and mendest them.  
Or, in few words, leanne and observe this one lesson for all the three sorts of pens: Try whether the pipe of whatsoever pen be hard, soft, or indifferent; and then the neb thereof upon the nail of thy thumb, b●t sparingly: if it be hard, and the slit not yielding so fare as it ought, then rive the same a little farther up, and make it somewhat longer, unless it clieve foul▪ if it be soft, and have too long a cleft, that is, not correspondent to the strength thereof, but above the same, it requireth to be corrected, and made somewhat shorter: and if it be indifferent, let either the cleft thereof be kept, or made so equal, and with such discretion as thou (by the exercise of thine hand) shalt find most requisite.   

The manner how to hold the pen.  
Hold the mouth of the pen inwardly, just forenent the palm of thine hand; to the effect the broad side may come down in casting of all letters, and the narrow side slent up, lest they be small where they should be great, and great where they should be small. But if thou be inclined to suffer the pen somewhat to decline, or lie aside, let the mouth thereof touch that joint of the middle finger, wherewith it is holden, that the declination thereof may be towards the left hand. As also, for the more comeliness of small and compassed parts of letters, it is requisite oftentimes even to turn the left side, or edge of the pen directly about, where the mouth was of before; but not to turn the right side of the pen contrary wise about; that is, to hold the mouth thereof directly forenent the left hand, and the back thereof to touch the middle finger of the right hand, but remain always in its own station, except in so fare as it will turn itself by occasion and course of the former turnings.  
Let the pen be holden betwixt the utter point of thy thumb, high, and the inner side of thy middle finger, (not above, nor yet touching the nail thereof, but a little before the same) low, and he bound or holden close to both, with the inner part of thy foremost finger in the midst: but let it not be so short holden that either the nail of thy middle finger cover the mouth thereof, or yet touch the paper.  
Let the pen neither be over softly holden, nor too fast gripped, but in a reasonable measure betwixt both; because in so doing thine hand will be able both to write best & most, or endure longest to write well without wearying.   

How to govern or lead the pen.  
SInce all letters, for the most part, aught to have a greatness, a smallness, and a mixture; that is, partly great, and partly small; let the pen be sadly laid to the paper as it cometh down in all letters, that the stroke which it maketh may be great; and let it go lightly, or touch the paper favourably, as it slenteth up in all letters, that the stroke which it maketh may be small; (yet it may be tolerated when the descending part of any letter slenteth to the left hand, not only to suffer the pen to go lightly, that the stroke may be small, but likewise to make the neither point of strait tailed letters small; both because they are most seemly so to be, and naturally while as the pen is a lifting, or in taking up, at the finishing of that part of such letters, it arrogateth some liberty so to do) and keep such an indifferent mids, either of increasing, great, or decreasing, small, as is requisite in the mixed part, which occurreth most often in the compass or turning parts of letters.  
And howbeit neither all the downe-comminge of the pen can be altogether great, all the up-goinges altogether small, (even besides these two sorts excepted) nor all turnings altogether mixed, yet herein as thou strivest to observe, thy writ will be so much the more comely, and legeable. But there be some who delight to show their skill in the exquisite smallness of downe-comming, and compassed parts of letters; which I think is neither natural to do, nor yet pertinent to be done; because each one of these three letters, (and) so casten, is not only uneasier to write than if it were all great where it should be; but appeareth (a little distant from the eye) like this consonant () in respect of the utter smallness thereof, where it ought not to be. Indeed in beautifying, garnishing, or decoring of letters (besides up-goinges and slent downe-comminge to the left hand) conditionally that the proportion thereof be not the worse, but the better, I commend there, that which I discommend here, as there be right reasons, times, and places of all things.   

What loss happeneth through want of Pens.  
ALbeit a Pen be a small thing of itself, yet what thing is employed in greater Affairs? and oftentimes the want thereof a needful times, either of matters penning, or subscribing of matters penned, hath caused many so to regrate, that they would afterwards gladly have given the price of a thousand for the like precious time, but have been refused. Therefore since time bypast no way can be recalled, yea, very hardly redeemed, be careful to use rightly the time present, by learning with thy writing to make, and to prevent the time to come by foresight, in using always to keep: because both the most part which can make, writ aye best with their own form of pens; and those who keep them, have them readiest. Otherwise, if thou wilt not thus study to serve thine own use, thou wilt be forced to borrow, and oft times be disappointed, either altogether, at least of pens meet for thee, and so then be constrained to write with any pen howsoever made or mended to thee by another, or else, will thou, nill thou, to want often times, and that perchance when thou hast most ado.   

Admonitions concerning the Penne.  
AS often as thou art to write either with a new or old made pen which is become dry, forget not to wet the point, and the most part of the mouth thereof well within, before thou dip it in the Ink, lest it hardly receive the same: or if it receive, it vent not cleanly thorough, but fall out so in blobbes at the point that it blot thy writ. And as often as thou takest Ink, let the pen be dipped aye at the farthest side of the Inkhorn, to the effect the Linen or Cotton within the same may come in, or be betwixt it and the Horn, that the point thereof incur no danger. And immediately thereafter not only shake the superplus of the Ink out of the pen, into the Inkhorn again, rather than else where: but dight away the Hairs, & thick Ink from the point thereof, (if any be) before thou writ.  
Again, when it shall happen thee to irk, rest, or do aught else which hindereth thee any ways in performance of the action, and as yet not minded to desist, it is more seemly (for that short time) to place the pen on thy right ear, than either to put it in thy mouth, or yet to suffer it to remain in the Inkhorn, & that for preventing & intercepting of the occasions following on these childish enormities: Because many children making their countenance by the first thereof, take occasion with their teeth both to enseeble and shorten the staulke of the pen, without the which the pipe becometh unable to do its own part, since it can be no better holden any way than with its own staulke. And by occasion of the second absurdity, the pen becometh so weak & feeble, through long standing amongst the Ink, that it will write no more good writ, till it dry again at length, and be mended of new.  
And last, when the action is concluded, remember to clean●e the Ink forth of the pen, that it may write the more cleanly at the next occasion. (I add here the word [remember] because commonly all means are more regarded in the beginning of any action, than in the end, when the use of them is expired.) Indeed after the pen is well dried, if thou use to mend it aye before thou begin, it will be both harder, and rind so much the more cleanly, by how little it hath been dight.   

The use of a Pen without Ink.  
IF thou canst not follow curious letters abruptly by rule of eye, or hast not a perfect hand draught, essey first with a dry pen, made without a cleft, for that effect, in stead (or for lack) of Charcoal, Blacke-lead, etc. and thereafter go over the same again with a writing pen, having Ink therein: and what errors of the first drawing thou leavest uncovered in the second, fail not to deleate and rubbe away on both the sides of the paper, when as the letters are dry, and that with a clean tooth, or piece of other bone, made smooth for that or the like use.   

How to make common black Ink.  
TAKE, of Scottish measure, a choppin of Ale wort, being cold and well settled, and a pint of rain or standing water, and put in a leaden or earthen vessel of correspondent quantity alike wide up and down, with half a pound of fresh galls grossly brayed, and stir them about amongst the liquor, the space of two days thrice each day, & one quarter hour each time; and that with a small or thin piece timber, made broad at the neither end for that use. Then strain the gall water through a draught cloth into such another vessel covered above, together with ●. ounces of Coppresse or Roman vitriol, one ounce of clear Gum Arabic, and half an ounce of Alme, if it shall happen to sink: thereafter stir all about, the space of a quarter of an hour, and then it will be sufficient.  
Moreover, remember to fill up the first vessel again with half of the former quantities or measures of galls, wort, and rain water; and stir the same about thrice each week till the foresaid Ink be spent: like as thou mayst supply aye the same with some augmentation so long as the colour of the gall water remaineth Browne. Whatsoever thing is written herewith, may be dried with sand or grey paper, if the haste of thine affairs may not suffer it to dry of the own accord.   

How to make fine black Ink.  
FOr writing any heretable right, or whatsoever thing either of great importance, long endurance, or to men of great account, the most perfect black, and lustring Ink, is most excellent and requisite; which if thou wouldst learn to make, either for thine own use, or to pleasure thy friend, use & employ these means following:  
Take Vessels of the former quantity and substance, and put the preceding measures of materials and liquor therein; but either white wine or May due in stead of the rain water, & the gall water to stand the space of 20. days: at the expiring whereof, thou must add to this composition these ingredients; to wit, an ounce weight (at the least) of the fume of Rozet, otherwise called Lamp black, half an ounce of the Pulver of an Hearts horn, being burnt and beaten, or the like measure of the roots of white Lilies dried and in like manner made in Pulver: all these requiring to be mixed with Gum Arabic water, before they be put amongst the rest. Likewise (if thou please) thou mayest add thus much further, an ounce of white Sugar candy, or common Sugar, the white of two Eggs casten, & a Pomegranate or Sithron skin being dried and beaten; and then let all stand the space of ten days before thou writ therewith, either in a shadowy and cold place, or against the Sun as thou thinkest best: if thou make choice of the first, any of the former sort of vessels will be sufficient, but if of the next, a Glass is most meet.  
Remember to stir about this Ink, the said 10. days space, as oft daily as of before; and so oft thereafter as thou takest thereof: but before thou writ with the same, strain it thorough a linen cloth, being either knit about the mouth of the vessel, or spread above the mouth of the Inkhorn; and that for retaining and holding back the grounds or thick Ink, because it is profitable in the vessel amongst the rest, but both unprofitable and noisome in the Inkhorn: in the one, because most substance remaineth in thick Ink, and therefore it is the best mixture for thin Ink: and in the other, since it is thick, it will not pass cleanly thorough the Pen; but both readily blot whatsoever thing is written therewith, & hinder thee in finishing of the action.  
And if the same either grow whoare, or exhaust so through long standing, and seldom troubling, that it cannot serve thy use; or yet when the thin Ink is altogether spent, supply the remnant with a mutchken of vinegar, and rain water, by equal proportions; half an ounce of bay salt, or either more or less of these, as the quantity of thy composition requireth: stirring all about once each week at the least.  
Finally, whatsoever thing is written herewith, may be dried either at the fire a fare off, with tighers of Brass, Copper, Tin, or white Iron, being shorn very small, kept cleanly, and casten thereon; or else of the own accord: (as thou pleasest, or as time straiteth thee) for it being thus composed, will be so clammy, that whatsoever thing cleaveth thereunto when it is wet, hardly ever severeth therefrom when it is dry.  
And last, if thou wouldst have any great letters or small writ written herewith to lustre, or glister, in greater measure than the substance of the Ink itself doth afford, then take a pincell made of a Cons tail, and dip amongst gum Arabic water, being dissolved thick, and lay over the same therewith, after they are well dried of themselves.   

The hindrance that proceedeth of the want and scantness of Ink.  
WHether thou be an ordinary writer that livest thereby, or one that usest it as a special help in thine affairs, have such plenty of Ink always with thee as thine Inkhorn may easily contain: lest either when it is scarce, thou ding back the point of the Pen, by thrusting it to the Horn, Linen, or Cotton within the same; or else when it is deficient, thou rive the cleft thereof farther up, by pressing to seek it where it is not to be had: and so thou wilt be both hindered and angered when thou hast most ado, as also ashamed before whom thou so dost; and that not only for lack of Ink, but in like manner thorough often mending and changing of the pen in the midst of thy writ.  
Further, if thou neither be in haste, nor can have plenty of Ink at that instant; take forth that which thou hast rather with a worn pen, & lay upon the side of the Inkhorns mouth, that thou mayest take thereof as need requireth; than to spill or spoil the pen wherewith thou writest, through default afore said.   

Concerning the Pennar and Inkhorn.  
WHosoever thou be that art subject to write much and often, choose thy Pennar and Inkhorn of such quantity, as that the one may contain plenty of pens, and the other store of Ink: neither yet be ashamed to have them of such a common and easy form, as they may be always separated, and yet kept together with a durable string, wherewith they must be hung always at thy Girdle (either before or behind as thou pleasest) wheresoever thou resortest, and not hid in thy Pocket. But there be some so inclined to civility, (or rather to the love of their own reputation) that although they have purchased large means by the mean of writing, and daily addeth there unto, beside the defraying of all charges otherwise; yet are ashamed in the very midst of their profession to honour the Calling that fare, (which hath both honoured and preferred them so much) as to carry those necessaries in the most frequent manner, without the which, or the like, they could not put it in practice, and so want all which thereby they obtain: whereas many others which perhaps deserve more, and receive less, may be easily known by these tokens of what profession they be; which is a thing very seemly, yea, and agreeable to the custom observed as well by sundry Artists, as Artificers of other Arts and vocations, who think it no disparagement. Again, not only the Pennars, or Penne-cases of the sorts that be carried in private manner, do hold few pens, and those very short; but both the natural heat of the body maketh the colour of the Ink, kept in these Ink-horns, soon to fade, after it is dispersed in writ; and suddenly to exhaust, and be dried up in the Inkhorn; or at least become so thick, that it will stop its own passage through the cleft of the Penne. As also aye before thou begin to write, they require to be taken sundry, in so many pieces, that it is hard either to keep them so long as thou writest; or after thou hast written, to get them conveaned, and set together again.  
Have no Inkhorn, but that which may be closely stopped as thou carriest it; left the Ink overflow, and pollute thine Apparel, whereof if the colour differ from the colour of the Ink, it will be hard to find remedy for repairing of the fault, except the more timely regard be had thereunto, before the penetration and drinking in thereof in that wrong subject. That sort of Inkhorn, which (besides the stopper) is all of one piece, alike abroad, both above, to receive the pen easily, without doing harm thereunto; and under to stand on, is the best to be chosen: but none of those which are high or long, whether consisting of one piece or more, because in taking Ink forth thereof, the pen not only spilleth often times on their bottom, because the deepness thereof is uncertain: but also even in the entry, since it is too narrow. And that which is yet worse, a great part of the pipe thereof will be so defiled with Ink, (by reason of the said deepness) that it will reedilie blot thy fingers, and so cause thy fingers to blot the paper. Last, while as thou perusest these necessaries, let them either hang still on thy Belt, if then thou hast not much to write, and that the Ink abound not: or else stand on the writing table, beside thine hand which writeth, because it is nearest and readiest there: lest otherwise, if either at the left hand, or yet directly before thee, some of the Ink fall out of the pen by the way, in transporting thereof over thy writ, and so likewise disgrace it.   

Concerning the Paper.  
Have ever a sheet of clean Paper rightly folded in thy little Book, called VADE MECUM, or more, as need requireth, kept in better manner, that is, either unfolded, or in fewer foldings: lest otherways no less skaithe happen unto thee, than by the want of pens in thine urgent business: (as is forewarned in the own place) for although Ink may be hastily made, and after divers ways in time of need, yet pens are not always so to be had, (even where they use sometime to be in greatest plenty) nor every where to make, though thou couldst never so well: and paper farrelesse, which is not only more rare to be had, but more difficile to make, albeit thou have abundance of the matter whereof it is made.  
When thou art to write on the paper which thou shalt happen to have, let it lie square on that part of the Table before thee, where thou sittest or standest, and be remooved at so many times, or by so many degrees, forthwith from thee, as lines do increase in number in-with to thee.  
Let both those who have made little progress in learning to write, and those who have little leisure to learn, or both as one, make choice of the Page, or Leaf, (of ordinary paper) in quarto, made in the long line volume: because the one sort (if they would profit) must needs write slowly, till they amend sufficiently: and so great Pages would both suddle in time of the writing, and be tedious (for them) to write: and the other, may not write much at ones, for lack of time, as said is. But accordingly as skill groweth with the first, opportunity with the last, and dexterity with both, it will be more fit time to choose greater volumes.  
And if thou wouldst know particularly how to make that form of book, take a Pasteboard equal in quantity with one of the sheets of Paper whereon thou art to write, and fold it together justly in the midst fourfold, pressing down all upon each other; that the lirkes or folding parts thereof may appear the more vivelie for the uses following: thereafter extend it again in length and breadth, as before it was folded, the broad side lying always justly to thee (that is, square on the Table before thee, as thou sittest or standest) than fold and few therein, eight sheets of cleanly & well bearing paper, after this manner. First, fold 6. thereof in the long volume in quarto, for thine own writing; and few them justly on the lirke going thorough the broad side next unto thee, (as is immediately afore specified) and next, fold the remnant two in the short volume in quarto, for thy Exemplares; and few one thereof upon the lirke towards or forenent the right hand, & the other upon the lirke towards or forenent the left hand: and so the middle lirke (that is, the lirke justly betwixt both) will be reserved; which requires to be cut forth, the breadth of an intch, from the one end to the other: and although these two be thus divided, yet both being conjoined with the third, will appear as it were three Books bound all in one. By virtue of which division, and conjunction, all the Exemplares will both endure longer, and be kept cleaner, than otherways: and that not only by in-laying of one, or of all the Exemplares of the one side, when thou writest by any of the other: but likewise, when thou discoverest and perusest any of either side, all the rest, both of that same side, and the other, may be obscured and reserved. Moreover, cut the outmost Lease of the Paper whereon thou writest, half out on either side; to the effect one of them may lie in-over, and cover the page of the one side of all the Book, while as thou writest on any page of the other: whether it be the page already written, or the page next following to write.  
Touching the form of the Copies to be thus hereunto appended, employ any cunning Master Writer to write four Examplares▪ either of Secretary or Roman Hand, (as best agreeth with thy business and inclination) and two Alphabets conform thereunto, the equal half whereof on each side of the Book, filling the uppermost side of every Leaf, both towards the right hand and the left, saving the the uppermost Leaves: to wit, the utter Leaf of each side of the Book, saving the uppermost pages of the two uppermost Leaves, (to wit, the utter Leaf of each side of the Examplare part of the Book: which, if thou please, may be reserved to contain thy name or subscription, and that in Secretary Hand upon the one, and Roman on the other.  
And last, let one of the four Examplares be great, another greater; one small, another smaller: single and double Letters in one page together, and Capitals in another page by themselves. And remember to cause all the Copies upon the right side of the Book serve itself, through out all, to wit, the first or left side of each Leaf, all the Examplares of the left side content itself also with the Copies thereon, that is, to serve the last, or right side of every Leaf: and seldom borrow one from another, because both have alike: whereby they will lie directly forenent thy Face, on whatsoever side thou writest.  
When thou intendest to write any thing of great valour, and hast large time to do the same, let the paper be cleansed from all hairs and motes, that may either hinder the course of the pen, stay it to write cleanly, or any way's cause maculation; & that with Staunch grain: which if thou wouldst learn to make and use, I remit thee to these few Rules that be made in English Verse, at the forefront of that print Exemplar book set forth by Thomas Trippe, & of other books, by other Writers.  
Likewise there be ways how to take blottes of Ink forth of paper or parchment; how to boil Ink, and make divers kinds, and colours thereof; yea, (which is more) to dissolve Gold, and Silver; and to do sundry other things concerning curious and secret Writing, Geometry, Drawing, and Painting: wherein I will not insist, because they are fully declared in divers Authors; whereof many be more obscure, and tedious to practise, than either needful, or profitable being practised.  
But it is more expedient than needful that either Stanchgrain, or such others as these before mentioned, be used in all writs concerning all matters, nor yet are they needful for every Writer: for each practitioner cannot, (nor needeth not) be a perfect Artist; neither is it requisite, that each one that be perfect, take such pains in doing of every common thing, as at some extraordinary and rare occasion, when he intendeth either to honour his Country, those who employ him, or for some particular respects to demonstrate his own cunning by the exquisiteness and excellency of fair Writ.   

Concerning the squaring of Paper.  
LEt the Paper have double square, that is, two scores for every line of letters or writ, the first 5. days when thou beginnest to learn; whether thou be to build on an old foundation, or to cast down the same, and begin the Alphabet of new. Which time being expired, let the square vanish by little and little the space of 13. days, or yet some more or fewer as thou enrichest in knowledge and practice: for this part of the rule cannot be strictly observed by all alike, but must of necessity have some larger bounds for some than for others; because all be not of one age to conceive, and those that be, cannot conceive all alike soon; & though they could, they cannot with their heart practise that conception alike well.  
If thou canst not draw the just meethes of writ lines abruptly with the point of a Knife, take help of Square and Compass, & fill a sheet of Paper with perfect black scores, all alike distant, of such number as may easily be contained on the clean paper whereupon thou art to write▪ and each one of such length as thou wouldst have the lines, and of such breadth as thou wouldst have the bodies of letters to be: to the intent that the writing paper being cleanly and thin, and the squared paper laid under the same, the scores may appear therethorow, and so make the lines both to go directly forth to the end, and be of equal distance. Or thou mayest either square the writing paper softly, with the two points of the Compass, both the scores with one travel, so narrow or wide as the proportion of the letters requireth; or with a knife, being thick edged at the point, or else with a small piece of black lead, as thou shalt think expedient. (As for a pen with a cleft, because it hath no such strength as the Compass, it cannot be so meet for squaring: for incontinent it will slit further up in the self, and so make the scores to be further and further distant.) If thou makest choice of the last of these means proponed, and wouldst have the scores that be made therewith to vanish, that both the writ may the more vivelie appear, and thine own ignorance the less; then rubbe them softly with a piece of Wheat bread, after that the writ is well dried of its own accord.    

THE CONIUNCT MEANS TO THE WRITER.  

Concerning the gesture or behaviour of the head and eyes in the act of writing.  
WHile as thou writest, let thine head bow down as little as is possible: and if thine eyes have no infirmity, look directly to the pen as it is in the action; lest, if thou do otherways, thy lines or letters, either resemble thine head, by declining; or thine eyes, by wavering.   

Concerning the position of the body.  
SEt thy body somewhat strait up, that it may lean the less to the Table (except when either Sight or Light is deficient, or yet the Table too low) And the midst of thy body (descearned by the Buttons standing endlonges or down thy breast) justly forenent the border towards the left hand of the page, so long as it is in quarto. But in greater volumes either of Paper or Parchment, it will not be amiss, though thy body follow the lines so fare as the length of them requireth, if thou usest not to draw the book nearer thee at the writing of each one.   

How to hold the arms.  
Hold in thine arms so nigh thy body, as that thine elbows may remain within an handbredth to thy two sides, if the Table be not too high; lest otherwise if thy right elbow ●y farther forth, thy lines ascend in the ending; or if thy left elbow lie farther forth, they descend in the ending; or if they both lie farther forth, they be either elevated and borne up, or ●lse abandoned & holden boon in the midst, ●rregularlie.  
Hold not thy right arm any farther forth behind, than it may lie in over the Table be●ore, by the length of a span; and that by removing thereof, and thy writ, aye forwardly a ●ittle, as lines do multiply on the volume; to ●he effect thine hand may be the more steadfast both to write well and speedily.   

How to hold the hands.  
LEt thy right hand, which leadeth the pen, stand or depend on the end of thy Ring ●nd little fingers, rather than lean on the knuckles thereof; lest the pen lie aside in such sort, that it neither touch the paper with both sid● aye at ones (as it ought) nor yet have sufficie● passage for the Ink. And though there be litt● congruence or correspondence betwixt this ru● and these four patterns of an hand holding pen at the fore-ende of the said Thomas Trip● his Book, and others: yet who list to try, w● find this no less worthy of imitation a● observation than any of them.  
Let not the left hand follow the motion o● the right hand, but remain still on the margin● right forenenst whatsoever line thou writest and hold therein a Compass, made for that use of such length as the lines be, to the intent it ma● reach to whatsoever part of the line where th● pen goeth, for keeping of the paper straig● down, that it molest thee not while as tho● writest. And for that effect, let the Compas● be somewhat extended forth, the one poi● thereof set above that line which thou shall happen to be writing, and the other under th● same: but in great Volumes, where there belong lines, the left hand must have liberty ● follow the right, because the whole body wil● be either constrained so to do, or else aye ● the ending of one line, to begin another.  
Further, let aye thine hands be clean, le● not only they hinder the Ink to go thorough the pen, but so pollute the paper, that though (with difficulty) the same receive writ, it have manifold blemishes and defects, in stead of beauty and comeliness.   

How to hold the thumb, and fingers.  
LEt thy thumb and fingers which hold the pen, and chiefly the foremost finger, crook as little inwardly as possibly thou mayest; but rather be stretched forthwith upon or about the pen, as it is in the motion; because it is both the rightest and seemliest form of holding.     

THE GENERAL RULES OF INFORMATION.  
SECT. II.  
Comprehending so many Rules of Information as may be extended generally, how to write the most usual Characters.  

To follow an Exemplare.  
Endeavour to resemble a most perfect Pattern of fair Writ, carefully and attentively, till thou writ either as well, or sufficiently; if neither thou canst surmatch it, nor that it cannot be surmatched.   

The purity and exactness requisite in fair Writ.  
LEt not letters of one sort of Character be mixed within words of another: but each sort serve itself, with the Capital, Single, and double Letters, belonging to its own Alphabet. Yet there be some who intermingle Secretary letters in words of Roman writ, & Roman letters in words of Secretary writ: they may mix their Dishes together as they please, but I will hold mine several.   

How to place Capital letters in fair Writ.  
BEstow such a fair room at the beginning of the first line of thy writ, above, under, & within the squares of the same, upon beginning Capital letters, as is expedient for the quantities thereof: as also the whole room betwixt any line which thou shalt happen to write, and the line above the same, upon middle Capitals, as they occur and require to be written. But beware, thou neither permit them to touch the written line above (I mean bodies or middle parts of letters therein) nor yet come under the low score of whatsoever line thou shalt bappen to write, except those of them that have tails.   

An admonition.  
FOr thy better observing both of the former rule, and of all that follow; thou must consider that every line hath two draughts, either expressed or understood, leading it from the beginning to the end; one thereof high, and another low: which sometimes I call Squares, and sometimes Scores; but I name them never Lines, nor Rules: both because two of them serve only one line, and that I have other matter to speak of Lines and Rules; which therefore I distinguish by several names, for shunning all ambiguity, and uncertainty.   

How to write evenlie, without Square.  
WHatsoever Proportion, Quantity, and Situation of Letters, great or small; and by consequent, of Syllables, Words, Sentences or Lines, (I mean, not as they are spoken, but written) thou learnest by double Square, whether it be by practice alone, practise grounded upon skill, or by consideration had by this book of both; let the same Analogy be ay kept in all Set Writ, and best sorts of Common Writ, aswell by imagination without the help of Square, as by imitation with it: and that not from the beginning to the ending of one line absolutely; but even constant. lie, continuing from the beginning of the first Line of thy writ, to the ending of the last. And here followeth a perfect way, whereby thou mayest both rightly and easily observe the same.  
WHen one or more letters having heads, or tails, or both, or the like, do occur in words, measure not the letters wanting heads, or tails, or both, that shall happen to ensue, by their heads or tails; but by their bodies, (at the least, by so much as each one hath of a body, whether whole or half) and failing of all, by the last letters of that sort that preceded, whether in the same word, or in the word preceding the same, (meaning those letters which want heads, or tails, or both, as they do) & that by making a meethes or mark with the pen, known only to thyself, aiming lineally and justly endlongs the scores, from the one to the other: which thou mayest do, (both on the high square and low, though no square be expressed) so long as thy skill is weak; howbeit 3. or 4. letters having heads or tails, should interveane.   

With what expedition to write.  
SInce perfect and commendable writing can neither be learned by strength, haste, nor speed; but by slight, patience, and diligence; wherefore, if ever thou wouldst aspire thereunto, reject those wrong means, & accept the right, that is, writ aye attentively, sparingly, and carefully, till thou either hit, or shoot very near the mark thou aimest at: for 3. lines are better thus written, than 30. otherways. And how much less paper thou spendest by this restraint, thou wilt learn in so much the greater haste; (& so this is a rule of expedition always, though not in speed of doing, to do much; yet in speed of learning, to do rightly.) But indeed afterward, thou mayest endeavour by degrees to such speed, as not the less thy writ may be yet correct. And further, let thy skill so appear even in the celerity of things quickly done, that there yet remaineth much more in thee, the doer; if greater matters should occur, and more fit occasions offer, to essey.   

Such Exemplares as be best, and meetest to resemble.  
IF thou wouldst reap any fruit by the seed of the travels, which thou sowest in this arable field; let thy Exemplars be always so exactly and authenticklie written, by an expert Writer or Notar in thine own sight (thou giving attendance at his left side, while as he writeth them) that every Letter, word, and Phrase therein, may observe the whole Rules thereof, in so fare as it can extend thereunto. And while as thou resemblest the same, if thou carefully perceive the true progress of the pen, in casting of letters; and then follow the true paths and lineaments thereof, as it departeth out of one letter, and entereth into another, but not with the words thereof gotten in memory by oft writing, thou wilt learn soon with fewest Copies, but if otherwise, with maniest; or rather with few, wherein the sentences be written backwards: because they will be so much harder, both to get & keep in mind, & thou so much the more moved & constrained at the casting and conjoining of every letter, to behold the Pattern: for the remembrance of the sense, and forgetfulness of the letter, be two chief causes often times, not only of the long time spent, and little profit obtained, by many that would seem to be very instant and diligent in learning to write; but of the great discredit & infamy it breedeth to their instructors, who be innocent of their negligence: for there be many Parents, who will not have their Children chastised, but lovingly admonished, although it should avail never so little.   

The distance requisite in Fair Writing.  
IN Set writ, and best sorts of Common writ, let all Single and double Letters, as also all Syllables, Words, & Sentences or Lines; be of equal distance, each one of its own kind from another: that is to say, letter from letter within syllable, when it containeth divers letters; syllable from syllable within word, when it containeth divers syllables; word from word within line, when it containeth divers words; and line from line within page, when it containeth divers lines: except in a Poetical, and sometimes in a Prose Abreviation within a syllable, & when a period occurreth within a line, betwixt words; letters in the first, and words in the last, require to be farther distant than otherwise. In like manner, not only when the whole first line of thy writ is great, the second requireth to be somewhat farther distant therefrom, than any one of the rest from another; but when thou shalt happen to write any matter in Precept or Article manner, it is requisite that either thou leave a line in the beginning, or midst, not out-red, and begin another as nigh as any of the rest, (as occasion offereth, or as the cause requireth) and that for distinguishing of the several heads of the subject: or else, if the precept or article conclude equally with the line, thou must purposely leave the bounds of a line void, betwixt the ending of the one, and beginning of the other, for that same effect. And in all those things, both commanded and excepted, as thou carefully strivest to observe, the more decency and seemliness thereby of thy writ, will conquest thee the greater commendation.   

The good Order, or Neighbourhood, requisite in fair writing.  
IN the self same writs, let neither the head nor tail of any letter of one line, do harm to the body, head, nor tail of any letter of another line; nor yet within the bounds where they stand, in what soever line: but let each one be conveyed, some other way, from another, and kept (so fare as is possible) within its own marches and bounds: which be known by the high sort of heads, being measured enlongs above the high square; and low sort of tails, alonges under the low square: which be the indifferent sort of both, as, God willing, shall be declared particulardlie hereafter in the own place.   

The nearest remedy how to bring irregulare Lines in order again.  
IF thou chance either through ignorance, or negligence, to write out of lineal order, (which thou wilt readily do, and much more, if thou be inclined to any of the two) that is, to make lines up or down at the beginnings, end, or midst; take here the next remedy for each one of those faults, being 6. in number: which if thou wilt use, (as thou mayest easily) the overthrow of that thy labour, will be intercepted through timous care: and that in the line immediately ensuing any wrong line; lest by delay, thou not only anger thyself, and others, lose time and travel: but likewise bring thyself in so evil a custom of irregulare writing, that thou wilt weary to write any at all; if thou be such a one, as hast others at command to supply thy place.  
First, if thy fault be in making any line too high in the beginning, then begin the next line so much the lower, and proceed therein the more carefully, both to the end, and in the end.  
Secundarilie, if thy fault be in making any line over low in the beginning, then begin the ensuing line so much the higher, and proceed therein the more attentively.  
thirdly, if thy fault be in making any line to mount over high in the ending, then let the line next following thereafter be begun so much the lower: the amendment of the one, and enormity of the other, beginning and proceeding by equal proportions: and so forth, by contraries, using the like remedies for the remnant of the former absurdities, and that not of lines only, but of written words, syllables, and letters also.  
Moreover, if divers lines shall happen to go wrong, before thou perceive thine own error therein, then presume not to amend the same altogether in one line; lest thereby the blank be so great, that it be more unseemelie than the fault itself; and so the last error be worse than the first. But if thou wouldst extricate & unwind thyself out of that snare, that is, have thy fault obscured, at least, not so readily perceived; then amend the same by little and little, in such measure, and number of lines following after, as the error contained which went before.   

In what bounds to comprehend fair Writ.  
LEt thy writ be seldom dispersed, but rather compact; which will better consist in joining closely together of letters or syllables within words, than either of words with words, or lines with lines: Except at sometimes, when thou art driven to any extremity, through straightness, or lack of room, it will be tolerable to use the last compendious means, as well as the first: and that by studying seriously to contain thy matter in such little bounds as thou hast, (avoiding only confusion) than either to hazard the valour thereof, or have thy labour lost: yea, or any ways disgraced.   

Encouragement against weariness in writing.  
IF thou canst not follow the Pattern so near, nor be pleased with thy writ, at all times, as thou wouldst, notwithstanding thou have both convenient occasions when, and necessaries wherewith; yet because even fair Writers are not able to write always alike well; be not utterly discouraged, nor desist therefrom altogether, although at that time thou rest somewhat male-conted: (for perchance thou hast some other meditation in thy mind) but endeavour, with resolute courage, to redeem the same at other occasions, when both thy mind and hand are more bend to concur in that exercise: For daily experience teacheth, that many things will be refused at one time, and yet granted at another.   

How to extract any matter attentively.  
WHen thou extractest any thing of great length, or valour, having long lines, whether on Parchment, or yet Paper, lay a cleanly square, of correspondent length, aye so justly upon the lines immediately under that line, out of the which thou art copying, as that neither syllable nor letter thereof appear, or be licentiate to show itself until the former line be fully extracted: and thereafter, flit the square down nearer thee a piece, and cover the line therewith that followeth: to the effect, the line that was first covered may kythe itself, and the matter thereof likewise be abstracted: and so forth, of every line thoughout all the Volume before thee, from the second, to the penult. But before thou writ by any line, of the matter before thee, remember to make a small secret tick or mark on the margin thereof, just forenent the beginning of the last extracted line; & so do in each line of the same to the end, for helping of thine own memory: because such as be not daily acquainted with the matter, as well as the letter, perceiving lightly any word insert in two lines together, may either perhaps take the word written in the last line, in stead of the like word in the first: or else, the word written in the first line, in place of the like word in the last: and so thereby any of those lines, being either omitted, or repeated, will, out of all question, make thy whole travel of little force or effect.   

NOTA.  
Although the observation of this former Rule may seem su●e●●●●ous, because the form of extracting therein contained is not so speedy as abrupt writing: yet it may be answered, that that writer may have fare sooner done who spendeth a little more time, in performing of any thing well, than he that writeth rashly, or unadvisedlie, either by omitting or adding some things which be ought not: and so, when all is done, is forced to write it over again. Is not the Snail both as goodlike, & comes as well to her purpose at night, that perhaps hath not crept a foot of ground all the day, as the Swallow, which hath flown an hundreth miles out and in? And whether cometh he sooner, and in greater safety, unto his journeys e●de, who goeth endlonges a Bridge, although the way thereunto be somewhat about: or he that presumeth to cross a dangerous Ferry at the nearest, exposing himself to the adventure of Boat, Tide, and Tempest: and yet being either greatly hindered of his Voyage, endangered of his person, or disappointed of his purpose, will afterwards be forced to go about, when all other means have failed him? Is he not then double farther out of the way, (besides the losing of much time, and casting himself in the former dangers) than if he had gone somewhat about willingly at the first?   

ALIA.  
When thou writest any thing, of great importance, it is requisite to lay a sheet of clean paper under thine hand which writeth, covering the whole paper whereon thou writest: and another to cover all the writ itself (except aye the three last written lines: that by the order, and compactness thereof, the rest which follow may be measured) and that for preserving of both, from all blottes of Ink, which may occur, and any such danger they may incur.     

THE SPECIAL PART OF THIS BOOK: Containing the particular Rules of Information, and all the Rules of Perfection, how to write the most usual Characters; but chiefly the SECRETARY, which is set down here, both for itself, and in place of all the rest.  

THE PREFACE.  
THE Causes wherefore I insist not particularly, in any sort of Character, but the SECRETARY, be three in number: First, because maniest like it best, both for the excellency and celerity thereof: and therefore is now used through out the most part of EUROPE, but chiefly in His Majesty's Dominions. secondly, for the Natural Affection I own to His Highness, all His Subjects, (whereof I am one) and to all His Majesty's Realms, but chiefly SCOTLAND, my native Country. And thirdly, for shortness cause: for doubtless if the whole sorts of Characters, which be comprehended under the general Name, WRITING, and whereof this SECRETARY is one, were as largely taught, by Rules of Art, as it is, and all the particular differences thereof declared, I suspect that Work would be so tedious, and the Volume thereof so great, that the space of a Man's Days would be over little to write it, and not too much to read it.  
Therefore I have made choice to give special Rules for one sort of Character, and general Rules for all the rest: howbeit many of the Special Rules will agree also unto sundry of the most usual Characters: (although not to them all, nor yet strictly to every part of those, unto which they agree) and so, both General and Special, in effect, serving as Rules, and the divers sorts of Writ comprehended under the Name, SECRETARY, as Examples: because in any Grammar all the Language is not expressed: for than it would spender the whole days of the Aged, let be of the Youth, to pass thorough: but compendiously directed unto by Precepts, and briefly demonstrated by Examples: yea, often times one thing expressed, representing an 100 things understood. And as Grammars were made of certain Observations, partly heard by the Ear, and partly collected forth of Ancient Authors of before: so is this Grammar made to aggree with the most easy and common Practic, observed by all skilful and fair Writers, which have been, and now are (as it pleaseth God.) And whereas the Practice of fair Writing doth precede the Precepts thereof, so many Latin Authors are anteriour to the Latin Grammar. And it is certain, there hath been as perfect Latin before there was a Grammar, as there was fair Writing before this Book, which is the Grammar thereof. And if the Latin Grammar be the Key of all Learning, this Grammar is the Key of that Grammar: because it can hardly be learned without the use of Writing: Ergo, the Grammar of fair Writing is the Key of all Learning: For, to have a Key locked up, and want the Key of the Place where it lieth, is (as it were) to have a fine Bow, but it is in the Castle. And insomuch as some do allege, that the Latin Grammar may be learned without the use of Writing, or the Grammar thereof: the Answer is, So may Learning be as well had without the use of the Latin Grammar: I mean, by exercising the Works of ancient Authors for obtaining of the language, till they aspire thereby unto farther learning: but none of them so soon, nor yet so well, as by these ordinary means. And albeit I had given the Title [GRAMMAR] unto this Book, it had not been amiss; because it would not have been repugnant to the nature thereof: for the original word, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, signifiing Litera, being generally applied, may be aswell, yea, (I may say) better, attributed unto letters, than unto languages. And as touching the common use of a Grammar, such as Declining, Comparing, Conjugating, Forming, and Constructing of Words; here the like of all these things is done of letters; howbeit in another form, which is proper unto itself: for, as a diclinable word is declined through divers Cases, from the strait Nominative; so is a variable Letter bowed and changed from the right Proportion thereof, through divers occasions of practice, & otherwise framed in one written Word, than in another; as likewise it is compared or made equal, with another of the own kind, conjugated or conjoined, form or fashioned, and constructed or set, at divers occasions, in divers written Words, as the proprieties thereof do require. But yet since the Title [GRAMMAR] is already chosen, and become common to divers languages, I will not insist to compare with them, nor strive for it: both because I have other as good Titles at command; and they are more to be pitied nor envied, which have but one Title amongst them all: and what regard, if it were not borrowed too?  
And albeit strictly, (that is, in every jot) the Rules and Exemples of this Book, do not agree to all the most usual sorts of Characters, but to the most part; yet largely th●y may all be both better considered, and followed thereby, than otherways: and any diligent Practiser that is experimented, by joining both the General and Special parts in practice together, may easily remove any little difference betwixt whatsoever Rule thereof, and the like place of whatsoever other Character, which it shall happen them to choose rather than the Secretary. It is true, I can hinder none to prefer any Character they please thereunto; but so fare as I can perceive, the extent of the Rules thereof reacheth as fare, as the bounds of any other: and therefore, they may both easier be conferred therewith, to know the difference, and applied thereunto, to learn the Skill and practice.  
I acknowledge, it is now time that we come to the particular form how to write: but first thou must know what to write, and I must propone unto thee some things to be considered, for thy better enterprising of the action: for if thou runnest rashly thereunto, without some farther consultation, it can no ways be rightly accomplished.  
Thou must consider, that all usual writing doth consist in the right composing of the afore said Symbols, or Signs of the Voice, which be Letters, Syllables, Words, and Sentences, or Lines; because in expressing of them, all kind of Articulate Voice, may be understood; and consequently, all Thoughts of the M●nde uttered: for Syllables do consist of Letters, Words of Syllables, and Sentences, or Lines, of Words.  
They are justly called Symbols, or Signs of the Voice, as well for the sound which they signify, being written, and is expressed, while as their Names are uttered, being read; as either for the matter of their composition, or manner of their proportion: as I shall do good will presently to make plain in particular.  
In a Letter are four things to be considered: to wit, the Form, the Knowledge, the Name, and the Sound: each one of these proceeding of another, being ranked according to their Age, or time of being, (to allude so) which Age doth proceed from the Form: because a Letter can have no age, till first it be form: and so the age beginneth immediately after the forming thereof. In like manner, the Knowledge cometh from the Form, (I mean only by his knowledge who readeth) the Name from the Knowledge, and the Sound from the Name: and therefore, all these are internal, or rather significative, except the Form, which is only external, or demonstrative: because it pointeth forth, or signifieth, all the rest. But if thou rank them conform to their value, thou must turn them up-side-downe, making the Sound of a Letter to have the first place, the Name the second, the Knowledge the third, (I mean only the knowledge of a Letter) and the Form the fourth. For if the sound of a word uttered could always continue, and not wear out, nor vanish in the Air, assoon as it is spoken, there would be little or no use for Writing: And therefore a Letter (I mean simply a Letter) is called a Letter, (that is, a Blot) rather because it is a Sign which representeth some small part of the Voice, being written, (for it becometh the same much itself when it is read) than either for the external form thereof, or matter whereof it is form: because the sound which doth proceed from the name, is the superior quality, or use of the Letter: but the form or frame of the Letter, whereby the name is known, is but a Sign, or Figure, representing that sound. And although the sound be Symbolicke, yet it is to be understood, as if it were real, (to speak so.) And as no musical or sounding Instrument can give perfect sound, till the hand or mouth stir up the same: so these Signs or Symbols cannot sound of their own accord, but remain and lie dead (as it were) till the voice of the tongue revive them, sound them, waken them up. A written syllable, is rather called a syllable; because it signifieth a great part of the voice, (I mean, chief when it consisteth of divers letters) than for any respect either to the matter or form of the letters themselves whereof it is composed. A written word, is rather called a word, because it representeth a greater part of the voice, which being uttered, beateth the Air; than for any regard either to the matter or form of the syllables, or letters, which be included therein. And a written sentence, is named a sentence, rather because it signifieth the greatest or longest sound, or part of the voice, (that is, the perfect meaning, and value of the words, one, or moe, which it doth comprehend) than for the matter, or composition of the words themselves, as they be written. And whereas in the singular number, a simple letter, (that is, not an Hieroglyphik letter, signifying a syllable, word, or sentence) be a dark and unperfect symbol of the voice; because it signifieth the least part thereof: yet letters in the plural number, are bright, and perfect enough: because thereof do consist all the other three: the first whereof is vive, the second viver, and the thirde most vive of all. And so the Cogitations of the Mind, Speeches of the Tongue, and Writing with the Hand; or rather the person gifted with these three, may be compared unto a Clock, which striketh Hours, or measureth Time: For the secret turnings, motions, and passages thereof, (and chiefly the restless Watch,) signifieth the Cogitations: the Bell that uttereth the particulars of time, (or becometh Attorney in discharging the will of the Clock) signifieth the speeches: and the Dial that declareth both what is meant & spoken, signifieth writing. And whereas speaking and writing do often times prove contrariwise, it proceedeth of inconstancy, and dissimulation; even as false striking, and demonstrating of wrong hours, do proceed of an ill tempered Clock.  
And albeit Reading be often times used without uttering of the Voice, and therefore may be thought to enervate, and cut away, the Pipes of the Sound, signified by these Symbols, or, at the least, attributed unto them: yet it is other ways: for such kind of Reading proceedeth rather of some contracted habit, or custom of the sound of Letters, learned of before through oft reading; than of the speculation, or inspection, of their Form, which then is seen. Otherwise, we could no more read without uttering of the written words which we see, than express them without a vive sight thereof; I mean such as we have not recent in our memory. And so albeit the right fashioning of Letters belongeth to this Art, yet the meaning and sounding thereof pertaineth to reading, (except only in verbal instructing of the Youth to write, they must needs both be named and sounded, as well as fashioned and known) but indeed the knowledge belongeth equally to both: for as the Skilful Writer knoweth, at the least imagineth, the right fashion of Letters in his mind, before his hand write them: even so the perfect Reader, when either he seethe, or findeth them written, immediately knoweth their Names, by their Fashion: and while as he readeth, either by expressing, or suppressing of the words, the one must be by sounding of their Names, (although not fully, or at length, of every name particularly) and the other, by usual remembrance of that sound: which is ingraffed in memory, thorough the often seeing of their frame, that signifieth the same.  
And, if it shall happen to be demanded, wherefore I meddle with any thing here in Writing, which belongeth unto Reading: it may be answered, Even because Writing and Reading are not only Brethren, (to allude so, excluding all diversity of Gener) but unseparable Companions: in nature, though not in use: and the younger of these dependeth on the elder: and it is certain, that any thing which dependeth, of necessity must fall, if it want the Subject whereunto it leaneth. For as Writing is the Subject of Reading, so it is the Object also to the person that readeth. Again, doth not Natural Reason prove, that Writing is older than Reading, how little soever it be? For no Writ can be read, before it be written: (I mean not by the internal consideration thereof, but by the external action) and it were needless, to write any thing, but that which may be read, by some, either in private, or public. Moreover, right Writing surmatcheth perfect Reading, as fare as Doing surmatcheth Saying: (I mean in  attempts, and equality of goodness) for it is fare easier to speak a Word, than to do an Action: or to expone what a thing meaneth, being lately passed, than to propone the overture thereof before it was imagined. And so, though they be not different in nature, yet there is no comparison betwixt them in excellency. For if it be replied, that the Word of GOD may be read, and furnish comfort unto the reader thereof; it may be answered, that it could not be read, were not (praised be GOD) it is so graciously writte●.  
It resteth only in this place, that I should define the a●ore-named Symbols of the Voice, before I proceed: but I think it more convenient, as each one is set down severally in its own place. It is true, they are defined already in the Latin Grammar: yet because I am (with God's grace) to insist in them particularly, I cannot, without reprehension, speak largely of any thing, except first I declare what it is: for perhaps many will peruse this Book, who never learned Latin, nor known the use of the Grammar thereof: and so because it were a foolish illusion, to send such to seek an unknown errand in an unknown part, (I mean unto them) the definitions of the former signs cannot be pretermitted, nor passed by. And therefore, I begin, and proceed, henceforth, as they give occasion of matter: but it behoveth me to speak most largely of Letters, being the chiefest sort; because all the other three depend thereon: and then so much of the rest as maketh for me, in the illustration and manifestation of the deepness and secrecy of the matter. And whereas the Section of Letters, is not only fare greater than all the other three, but almost filleth up as much of this Volume, as all the remnant Contents therein; it is not done without cause: for this whole Art consisteth of Letters, because the Subject itself is Letters: and what is written beside Letters, proceedeth of Letters: at least, by occasion thereof, even as the three ●ast parte● of the Latin Grammar, proceed of the first: and therefore is it not as large alone, as all the other three?    

THE PARTICULAR RULES OF INFORMATION.  

Sect. I. CONCERNING LETTERS.  

The Preambles, and Introduction, to Letters.  
A Letter is a simple voice, meet either to represent, or to be a part of the literal signification of one or moe written words.  
The main and principal scope of this Special part, is the aiming at the Alphabet, like as it will show itself anon, containing all usual Single and Double Letters, belonging unto the Secretary Character: but albeit thou have once all enroled together (for the Rules cause of Numeration and Division) yet if thou intendest not to teach others, but learn for thine own use; I have here also prepared for thee, an easier and brieffer Rew, comprehending the most usual and necessary Letters thereof, and two Verses conform thereunto, with ten compendious Precepts, directing how to follow the same: all collected, and composed together, in form of Abridgement: which if thou diligently haunt, and in any reasonable measure resemble, although thou knewest no more in writing, (save some of the most necessary Rules of Preparation) it may suffice to further thee in thine Affairs.  
But not to write at all, is both shame, and Skaithe: Shame for two causes: first, because whosoever seethe that thou canst not write, knoweth thee to be ignorant of all kind of Learning: and why? because Writing is the Key or beginning of all Learning: and if thou want the Key or beginning of a thing, how canst thou have entrance thereunto, or begin the same? for God hath put fare more differences (blessed be He) betwixt a Man and a Beast, than Reason and Speech. And secondly, it is shame both to employ a Notar to subscribe for thee, in any Security, and to want that good Token of Education, which perhaps thine Inferior hath: for wheresoever any Man of Honest Rank resorteth who cannot write, (chiefly where he is not known) he is incontinent esteemed either to be base borne, or to have been basely brought up, in a base or Moore-land Desert, that is, fare from any City, where there be Schools of Learning, Discipline, Policy, and Civility. And skaith, not only in attending & paying a Notar for the former cause, and in neglecting thy urgent business, through want thereof, chiefly which concerneth Counts, & Messives; but in discovering and revealing both of thy mind and estate, unto these whom thou employest thereanent. And though at that time, they conciliate friendship, and be social with thee; yet it is incident often times, (as there is little solidity here, in things beneath) that a friend to night, will become an enemy to morrow, and so publish of thee what he knoweth: and suppose constancy do even continue, thou wilt stand in awe both to say and do before him as thou wouldst; because a great part of thy secrecy lieth on the tongue of thy Secretary: and perhaps sleepeth as unsoundly there, as on the Topmast of a Ship, in a stormy night. Therefore, if thou be such a one, whether the negligence hath been in thy Parents, Friends, or in thyself, strive thou yet to amend the same, if thine age be within 40. years, whether thou canst read or not; because the dint thereof now striketh on thee: for, some above that age, have learned to write, that never of before known a Letter, (no, not of Print, let be of Writ,) but such as they had lately learned of their own Domestickes, as it is both better, and more commendable, to learn late, nor never; and of Inferiors, rather than want the benefit thereof altogether: but immediately after they have learned somewhat to read, they have begun also to write, and then in short time have known how to read other men's writ, by the like Letters in their own writ, and so have proceeded, from one Degree to another, till they both could write and read, compte and Messives sufficiently: for oftentimes one that wanteth all, neglecteth all; and those who have some beginning of a thing, seek to a farther growth thereof: there would be no Harvest, if there were no Seede-time: and if a Merchand would never use Merchandise henceforth until he got a great Sum, whereof to make his Stock, there would be scarcely one then, for ten now. So, how ignorant soever thou be, if thou canst apprehend thine own wants, and have any disposition to learn, the reading of this Book will (with the help of God) furnish thee Skill to write, and diligence will soon bring forth habit thereof: for if it please God to bless but one grain of Seed, it will increase an hundreth fold: then despise never a mean beginning, if it be good, suppose it be hard.  
But whether thou make choice of the great Alphabet, which comprehendeth the small; or the small alone: presume never to learn any Capital Letters, till thou (in some measure) be perfect of the Single and Double; both by writing of them severally in Alphabet, and jointly in writ: and that not only because they are easier to learn; but because all writ standeth more by them, than by the Capitals, and so the more needful to be had: for in any matter, either written or Printed, thou wilt find aye ten Single and Double Letters, (at the least) for one Capital.  
here may arise a Question: How can the Capitals be learned by the ensuing Alphabet, seeing it containeth none but the sorts of A? To the which I answer, They may be learned thereby for two causes: first, who will not confess, but any judicious person (though he should never travel out of his Native Country) may sufficienthe understand the Situation and forms of all the Empires, and Kingdoms of the World, by diligent consideration, and often perusing, of the Universal Card? and yet it containeth not so much as one of the least, but is contained itself, in little room. Then, why may not they fare better consider one thing suppressed, by another which is expressed.  
secondly, it is not mine intention either to set down Patterns of divers sorts of Characters here, (how beit I have many prepared) nor yet all the Capitals of this same Character, but rather hold me by the Art itself, and that for four respects:  
First, because there be so many Printed Books, both already extant, and daily setting forth, which do contain all sorts of Characters, Capitals, and fair Writ; that it were little more needful, than to carry water to the Sea, if Expenses should be bestowed on the Founding & Engraving of Irons for them, or any others, but such as cannot be wanted, nor omitted: for the drift of this Discourse requireth only the exhibition and demonstration of some, for the better consideration and practising of all. And therefore, and for the reasons immediately preceding, I speak in the Variations and Degressions of Letters, and other places of this Book hereafter, as plainly of all Capitals understood, by the 4. only which be expressed; as if they were all expressed together in one Catalogue.  
secondly, because this Book serveth as a Grammar to all writing; and consequently, to the right following of all the sorts of Exemplares which be comprehended in such as the aforesaid Books: and so i● of another nature than they be: for it containeth no more sorts of Letters, nor Exemplares than may sufficiently explain and prove the Rules thereof: even as DISPUTERS' Grammar, being a perfect Abridgement of the whole Latin Language, (since thereby, as one of the best, all Poesies, and other Works in Latin, be both conceived, and followed) demonstrateth no more Exemples nor authorities, than may explicate and interpret the Rules thereof: for if Grammars did comprehend all the matter of things at length, whereof they briefly treat, they would cease to be Grammars, (I mean concerning the use of them) and that for too great prolixity, in stead of compendiositie: because then each one of them would be of so huge a Volume, that the understanding of the whole Language, and Treatises of the Books whereat they aim, would be as soon apprehended, by the capacity of Students, as the Grammar itself; and so then both alike tedious to learn and consider.  
thirdly, because any who intend not to instruct others, have store of Exemples in this self same Book, containing also divers Capitals; which Exemples may serve for Exemplares both of Capitals and Writ: and therefore, if they rightly peruse these Exemples, and the Abridgement of this Art following hereafter, they will need no Exemplare-Booke at all. But as for those who desire to be better grounded, they must proceed more formally in using of the means: that is, first, strive to understand the former part of this Book, before they come to these Exemples: next, endeavour to conceive them, and the Rules whereof they arise, severally, when they come thereunto: and in the third room, employ some fair writer to extract all the Exemples of this Book on a sheet of clean paper, and make one Exemplar of them all, to resemble: for it has these rules which other Copies want. And though it be not all of one Matter, because the sentences thereof are divers; yet it is so much the better, for resemblance of the Letters whereof it is composed; because it is so much the worse both to be gotten, and kept in memory: for while as a student learneth to write, it is the Letter, and not the Matter, to follow; but having or being learned, it is the Matter, and not so much the Letter, whereunto he must have regard.  
And fourth, for shortness, and avoiding of prolixity: for if all the Capitals, which belong unto the Secretary, were insert here in such manner as I first intended, it would make the Alphabet so great, and seem so difficult, that it would affray (at the least hinder) many, at the first sight, from esseying thereof, who had not some reasonable beginning before. He is not a wise Instructor, or either hath little to instruct, or desireth few to profit by that which he hath, who showeth forth the whole secrecy, and curiosity of his Skill, unto his Disciples at the first, (thinking then to teach them the same) but by little and little, as they are in any measure perfect in one thing, to demonstrate and add thereunto another: and so forth, daily (as it were to beguile them) by drawing and leading them aye farther and farther on) till they either learn all, or the most necessary Documents and Experiments which he hath to teach. It is true, Capital Letters are more difficile to imitate, than the Single and Double: but having first learned the Single and Double, the Capitals than become easy to resemble. It would be very hard to cause a Rudimenter make a Right Theme, or Latin Verse: but having learned the Rudimentes, and proceeded orderly thorough all the Grammar, Theme, (yea, Verse, if he have the Poetical Vein) will become as easy then to make, as Litera was of before to decline. So there be many things which seem unto Gazers very admirable, and wonderful, thorough appearance of curiosity, being completed; which if they had seen either in the beginning, or in the midst of the doing, or before the accomplishing; they would have been so fare from admiring the same, that they could have helped, and been partakers of the action thereof themselves. And though there cannot (nor needeth not) be such Rules prescribed for Capital Letters, as for Single and Double; yet there be sufficiency of Rules here concerning them: and what is pretermitted in the one, is remitted to the other: and that not by direction of Precept, but by due consideration, and diligent attention, of the peruser. Thus much concerning the Preambles, and introduction to Letters, and the absence or retaining of Capitals forth of thy sight, so long as thou art weak, until a more convenient time, that thou be readier for them, as for stronger Food.   

The number and form, of the most necessary and usual Letters, belonging to the Secretary Character.  
THE Letters of the Secretary Character here expressed, be 147. conform to their variety of sorts; and but 23. conform to their diversity of Names: counting five score to the hundreth, after the Arithmetical Calculation: and each sort of Aspiration, or h, as one amongst the rest, for the Rules cause: and though h be not a Letter in Latin, yet it is one in writing: for if it were not written, how could it be? Then they be all different in sorts, but not in names; because there be aye divers sorts under one name, as thou mayest perceive by this their form of standing upon double square; which is not made here, nor should be made else where, to keep Letters justly in line, or lines evenlie in order: but for the better consideration of the Proportion, Quantity, and Situation of the Letters themselves; being so framed, measured, and bounded, as here may be seen, as well by the decent Rank kept of their sorts, as Alphabetical Order observed of their Names.  
WHich Character I divide three manner of ways: the first I call Variations, or Degressions of Letters; declaring the several sorts of Secretarie-hand writ: the second I call Divisions, or Denominations of Letters; declaring their several sorts by their names: and the third I call Comparations, or Descriptions of Letters, for understanding the differences thereof, by their manner of proportion, of their proportion by their quantity, and of their quantity by their situation, as they be bounded upon the two squares; that is, betwixt, above, and under them: in so fare as their limitation or circumscription can be extended.   

The Variations, or Degressions, of all the variable or degredibl● Letters of this Character, from their original proportion.  
THis Character doth comprehend two chief sorts of Secretarie-hand-writ, Set and Common: Set writ is written two manner of ways, which differ more in quantity & use, than in quality and substance: first, it is written with a great pen, in great proportion at the Head clauses, or Sentences, commonly used in the beginnings, middles, or endings of Books and Evidences: and with a small pen, in small proportion, in the remnant of such Head-clauses or Sentences; and that either when the matter is great, the person to whom it belongeth, or both.  
Likewise, it is of two sorts; the first whereof is a more principal form of its own nature than the second: because the one by principality is the Root, and the other by descent the Branch: for the chiefer form must needs be aye fairer and better written than the secundary, and so is more legeable: which therefore challengeth the first place throughout all the Alphabet: that is to say, the first choice both of all sorts and names of Letters therein, whether expressed or suppressed, belongeth unto it, and to none other. But as it is a degree better than the other, in respect of the exquisiteness, and exactness thereof, being done; so it is a degree worse than the other, in respect of a degree of longer time, which it consumeth by slowness in doing: yet notwithstanding, Sat citò, si sat benè, a thing well done, may very well be esteemed as soon done, excluding any count of Time, unless it be all the more pinched.  
The second sort then, is a less principal form of its own nature than the first, but not so slow; either whereof hath a relevant reason for probation: less principal, (I say) for although it have the first choice of all the Letters to the great written words at the beginnings, or within the body of it; yet it hath not the first choice of all the Letters to the small writ thereof, but of some: seeing the first choice of Capitals both expressed and understood, Minum Letters, and all others, except two, to wit, the first l and t of the Alphabet, are proper only, and therefore reserved to the preceding form: and herein standeth the difference. Not so slow, (I said) because the seconde choice of Capitals, expressed and understood, Minum Letters, and such others, that the former sort refuseth, are not so slow, and may therefore be written in shorter space than the first choice of these Letters: and since so they be, they permit not this form, which consisteth of them, to be so slow as the other: for all writ is mightily made up of Minum Letters.  
Again, it is no indignity unto this sort of writ, to suffer these Letters remain with the former, and that for three respects: first, because it is the right owner of them, for the reason afore mentioned. secondly, because this form vindicateth and obtaineth the use of many of the remnant Letters unto itself, whereof the former sort is composed; and so these Letters are constrained to yield subjection unto both the forms alike: for reiteration and doing of them often over again, maketh them so plentiful, and abundant, that they are always equally present in either fort, as need requireth: by reason whereof there is some analogy and concordance betwixt these two forms. And thirdly, as touching those Letters which it cannot obtain, (being so precisely kept by the right owner) it hath both as great a commendation, and is as well served without them, because it hath speedier Letters for them, than if it had them, because they are so slow.  
Surely, because there is a right time of all things, I must (with licence) amplify this point, by declaring the decay of these two preceding forms of fair Writ, immediately described, and what Skaithe fair Writers have thereby, although I should seem somewhat to digress: ●ayre Writing was wont to be no less needful than well maintained, and fair Writers had in due regard and estimation: but now, partly in respect of the late invention of PRINTING, and partly in respect of the desolation of sumptuous WRITING, the most part choose rather to content themselves with the incongruity, or irregularity of Common or Current writ, because it is both cheap and hastily done; than to bestow a little more, and attend somewhat longer upon the elegantnesse or singularity of SET WRIT. And so this is a Brazen Time for the small n●mber of expert Writers, by whom it pleaseth GOD even to keep (as it were) some spunke of life in fair Writing, that it extinguish not altogether: and a Golden Time for those who have sure Offices, and Servants who have any current form to write for them: for though they themselves do nothing but subscriue, their Clients, with all employmentes, appertaining to such Places as they possess, are so astricted, and thirled unto them, that they can neither pass by, over, nor thorough, any other way. Wherefore, the ignorant, and base-minded sort of these Writers, being so puffed up, with such Prerogatives and Preferments, beyond their Brethren, deride and scorn any thing of the sublimity of the Art, howbeit they could no ways live so gorgeously, nor maintain any such Trains as they do, without it: whereas, if a fair Writer, who hath no sure office, could do never so well himself, either in writing, or employments thereunto belonging, if he will not lay aside all his doing, and either teach Children to do, or be a Slave unto such as these, his Gift will avail him little. And while as he embraceth and maketh choice of the first, and employeth his Skill and diligence thereanent, if he will not make each one as perfect as himself, at the least, the hardest of engine, stiffest and heaviest handed, to conceive and profit as well as the most pregnant witted, souplest and cleanliest handed; these who bestow least, as these who be most thankful and liberal; and those who be urged to learned with correction, as those who do willingly, with pleasure and delight: the fault is altogether imputed unto him, and no ways unto them: and so he is either reputed as infamous, or else not worthy of his Place.  
In like manner, if they learn young, and not continue to be kept in right use, where or with whom they learned, and so become worse, the fault is also laid upon their Teacher, though against conscience they dissimulatelie speak one thing, and think another whosoever so doth: for they know well, that no Man▪ and fare less a Child, can keep any thing in memory, but that which he useth: yea, (I say farther) though a Student even pass his Course in all the Liberal Sciences, if afterwards he exercise not his Studies, his Clergy will vanish like the Snow before the Sun, and yet shal● he, or any that belong unto him, blame his Teachers, if so be that they did their duty unto him, the time he was with them?  
Moreover, many Parents so love their Children, (but with the wrong love which Solomon of●en forbiddeth) that they will not believe they have any faults, except they be notorious: and incase they believe, they cannot suffer to hear thereof: and if accidentlie they do hear, they so mislike their children's Instructor, if he affirm the same, (as a lawful excuse perhaps of their hard success) that do what he can, or use what Apology he please, it will be hard for him ever to obtain their favour again: and it were little matter, if they made not all their Friends and Associates of the same mind, by their scandalous and sinistrous information. Wherefore, all that he hath taught to others, or can do himself, is set to little avail, because both come within the compass of his estimation, and his estimation dependeth not so much on his own doing neither, as on children's progress in learning, yea, oftentimes on their bare testimony, without any warrant: and what is either more inconstant or foolish, than a Child's report? But what regard if it were not often times better believed than the very Sacred Scripture itself, and their Childish desire not more yielded unto?  
Common or facile Writ, hath not only all the remnant unchosen Letters of the Alphabet properly belonging unto it, but both borroweth oftentimes, the first choice of all Capitals, from the first sort of Set hand, and arrogateth the second choice of Minum Letters from the second; and that by right of place, and consequently by option of choosing: whereupon ariseth a controversy betwixt the said second form of Set hand, and this present form, which anon it behooveth me to discuss, because the decision thereof it submitted and referred unto me, (in stead of a more competent judge) and I have both accepted the same, in and upon me, and under-taken to pronounce definitive sentence therein, with all possible diligence: but first, (as it becometh all Earthly judges) I will hear both the Parties.  
The principal sort, challengeth and taketh the second choice of Minum letters unto itself; because it hath ever been in use of them by indoubted right, acclaimed by station of second place, and option of second choosing.  
And the common sort, allegeth, that albeit those letters would seem to pertain unto the other sort, by the same pretended and dissembled right of place and choosing; yet they ought not, because this sort hath been clothed with possession thereof these many years, past memory of man: and therefore cannot of equity be frustrated now of that ancient right, except there had been renunciation or disposition made thereof, and any of these Titles produced for instructing.  
Now for removing of these Questions, and Debates, I repel and refute the last alleadgeance, because the proponer thereof is not able to prove the Antiquity of possession mentioned therein: and although it might be proved, it were no just cause to take away inheritable Right: and therefore I descearne, that these debatable Letters belong to the principal sort; because it hath undoubted Right thereunto, by virtue of second place, and second choosing: but because the Common sort becometh indigent, or destitute of Minum letters, by occasion of this Decreet, which I could not eschew, but behoved to pronounce, according to justice, I will not utterly discourage nor damnify it, but have a charitable respect thereunto, and the rather, because it is more prompt and needful in common business, than the principal sort itself, (as all common means be, rather than special means.) Therefore, wit ye me to have assigned, and disponed, & by these presents assign and dispone the like sort of Minum letters, to the said desolate form, and that by doubling of such Letters in the Alphabet, as have no constant difference from those which were lately questionable. Likewise, with express advice, and consent of either sort, I ordain, that they shall be both served alike, with all that sort of Minum letters, as well debated, as added; and that there shall be mutual and reciprocal proportion of borrowing and lending, affinity, peace, and amity, betwixt these forms continually hereafter, so long as there shall be any extract of this Book extant, wherein this their submission and ordinance of peace is thus registrated.  
And on the other side I ordain, that these sorts of Minum letters give equal obedience to both the sorts of Writ, and serve them indifferently, and that by reiterating of themselves so often as need shall require, or occasion offer, though it were in one Page, yea, in one line, since they themselves were doubled, or the number of them added for that effect: and none other sort added with them, nor put for them.  
Which Common Writ is also written two manner of ways, neither different in substance, quantity, nor quality, but only in speediness. First, it keepeth an indifferent mids: that is, neither too speedy, nor to slow: which is the best way, in respect of the legeablenesse of itself, being written: but worst, in regard of its unreadiness and slowness to write.  
secondly, it is currentlie written, and therefore is somewhat worse, in respect of the uncomeliness, and raggedness, when it is done: seeing it is but composed of all the abjectes, or derivative letters, of the Alphabet, which be fare descended, and derived, from their original proportion: (which original is the whole Letters of the second sort of Set hand) but yet it is so much the better, by how much it is more easy in doing: and therefore it is chosen, and singled out, as a form most needful in hasty businesses.  
And whereas it may be thought, that sundry of the Current letters belonging hereunto, be too slowly, or well written: that is▪ not so Current-like as need or haste doth require, I do so of set purpose, because no Man needeth to be directed by Precepts, nor shown by Exemples, to write or form letters evil, (that is, after a wrong manner) but rather both aye to be directed and showed how to write well: howsoever the most part be desirous both to learn themselves, and to be expeded in their affairs by others, with the easiest and speediest sort of Writ. And therefore, though I present in the Alphabet the Pattern of Current letters, somewhat nearer the right shape, than they commonly use to be found in Current writ; yet either the inclination of the doer, expedition of the adoes, or both, will pervert and corrupt them so, that they will be both soon enough, and fare enough, yea, too fare different therefrom uncommanded: because all commandments be rather contrary than agreeable unto Man's disposition: as it is fare more difficile to roll a Cannon Bullet up to the top of a Mountain, than from thence unto the foot thereof.  
Last, Common writ is found likewise to be of two sorts: the one called Open Minum, and the other Close: both written either indifferent, (that is, neither too speedy, nor too slow) or Current, at the will and option of the Writer: but the last thereof is best Current, because it is more speedy in urgent affairs than the first. And though it be impossible to make the speedier sorts either so legeable or comely as the rest, yet each one of them ought to be respected for its peculiar property, to wit, celerity; because neither time nor place will serve aye to write alike well, nor yet would it be necessary, though continual occasion might be had of both these circumstances.  

NOTA.  
There is also another Minum Letter, contrary unto this, to wit, open above, (like the third single u in the Alphabet) and close under: but it is neither so seemly nor speedy as the former.    

The Divisions, or Denominations, of all the Letters of the Alphabet, declaring the several sorts thereof by their names.  
THe Letters of this Character are divided two manner of ways, some thereof be Capitals, and some not: the Capital letters be of two sorts, the one called Beginning Capitals, because they are commonly used at the beginning of Books and Evidences, whereof in this Alphabet there is but one; to wit, the first Capital A, placed here not for itself absolutely, but in name and behalf of all beginning Capitals of the whole remnant Letters of the Alphabet: as also in place of whatsoever plain or curious sort of beginning Capitals can justly belong unto this Character.  
And although I have spent (yea, rather misspent) much precious time, not only upon old Capital letters, both curiously made, and filled up, with Portraites, and all sorts of small Draughts; but upon painting and inventing of new Capital Letters, divers forms of curious Writ and Comparthementes: likewise, in writing of Testificates, with Gold, Silver, divers colours of Ink, and sorts of Writ; and both of Great Evidences and Small, belonging unto Clerkeship and Notary, with one fair and legeable Hand: as also in writing oftentimes both of Counts of great Revenues, and of extraordinary small and compact writ, (to the great prejudice now of my sight, as in containing of the LORD'S PRAYER at length in less bounds than the scale of an Haring) and many other such needless curiosities: yet notwithstanding, (to my simple judgement) plain Capitals swiftly done, and ordinary, or easy writing, and drawing; be as much more commendable, as they are more ready than all these: even as suits of gorgeous apparel, embroidered, passemented, and decored, be oftentimes so much uncomelier, than fine plain clothing, as they are costlier. But indeed either in rare employments at ordinary times, or in ordinary employments at extraordinary occasions, any that have inclination, and correspondent gifts to exercise themselves thereanent, shall have my consent; yet not absolutely, but conditionally, that they protract not so much time as I have done in so doing, though they have never so much allotted unto them for that effect; for I know (by doleful experience, I mean, by neglecting of better exercises and other learning) that those conceits are oftentimes more deceivable, than profitable: and doubtless the travels thereof would be infinite, were not the doers are finite; and for a finite person, to enterprise any infinite labour, except the praising of GOD, and turmoil himself therewith excessively, and tediously, and then for little use, is (as testifieth the most wise, mighty, and experimented King that ever was, except our gracious Saviour) nothing else, but vanity, and vexation of spirit.  
The other sort of Capital letters, are called middle Capitals, because they are frequently written within lines of writ already begun, and that at the beginning of sentences and proper names; which be ofter different from the former sort, in quantity and situation, than in quality and proportion: whereof in this Alphabet there be 3. to wit, the remnant Capital sorts of A; which be not placed here for themselves only, but both as so many Attourneyes for the whole middle Capitals of all the remnant letters of the Alphabet; and for all plain and curious sorts of middle Capitals, (of whatsoever proportion) which can anywise pertain unto this Character.  
These which be not Capitals, are called Single and Double letters, (which stand in order immediately after the Capitals throughout all the Alphabet to the end) being 143. who list to number them.  
Of the which there be 121. Single letters, easy to be known: and 22. Double, to wit, The 4. c in the Alphabet; (for henceforth I ●ust needs speak of them all according to their names and order, and not any more, by demonstration of their form, but directing by other letters to the Alphabet where they are) 5. 6. 8. 9 e, 4. f, 4. 5. i, 4. l, 4. m, 4. n, 4. o, 4. p, 5. s, 4. t, and all the 7. sorts of w.  
As for the dividing of letters in vowels and consonants, and the subdividing thereof, I insist not therein; because these divisions do belong more to the nature of letters, than to their proportion: and therefore they are plainly enough divided in the Latin Grammar. Only here, for knowing of them by their proportion, I will distinguish the vowel sorts of i, and u, from the consonant sorts thereof, in this manner; to wit, the 1, 2, and 5 sorts of i, be vowels: the 3 sort of j, is a consonant: the 4 sort of two, is a double vowel, or two conjuct vowels: and the 5 ji, is both a consonant and a vowel, conjoined in one. Likewise the 1, 2, 3, and 5 single sorts of u, be vowels: & the first vu, is 2 vowels conjoined: and the 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 sorts of v, be consonantes; whereof 5 be single, and 6 double.  
The which single and double sorts of letters, before specified, be first compared, or described conjunctly, (for the Rules cause) and then the double sorts severally: both following immediately in order.   

The Comparations, or Descriptions, of Single and Double Letters conjunctly, demonstrating and making each one equal with another of the own kind: and that by describing how many have bodies, heads, and tails; and how many want them.  
FIrst, of this Character there be 115 Letters, which have bodies, or just middles, filling the room all completelie alike, up and down, betwixt the 2 scores: that is, neither going above, nor coming under them: and these be, all the  
4 sorts of — a, & 4 — g, 3 — b, the 1, 2, 3, 4, — h, 5 — c, 1, 2, 4, & 6 i, 4 — d, all 5 — k, 10 — e, 5 — m, 5 — n, & 5 short- s, 5 — o, the 1, 2, 3, & 4- t, 5 — p, all 16 — u, 5 — que & 4 — x, 10 — r, the 2, 3, 4, & 5 y, and all the 4 sorts of z:  
Except the body of the first k, which is irregulare, because it goeth somewhat above the high score.  
And 28 want bodies, or just middles, whereby to know, and prove, the lineal justness or equality of any of themselves, or other letters, both before and behind them▪ as they occur in any word; to wit, all the 7 sorts of f, the 5, 6, 7, 8 h, 3 and 5 i, all 5 l, and 6 long s, the 5, 6 t, 6 and 7 y: because they fill not up the room betwixt the 2 scores, for lack of Beginning and Finishing parts, to come either justly alonges upon them, or cross-ways betwixt them, or yet close inwardes on any of them: and that for accomplishment of a body to e●erie one of themselves, as each one of the rest hath, (save such as be altogether bodies, that i●, wanting heads and tails:) accomplishment (I say) because each one of them hath some beginning of a body already, howbeit but a plain stalk, as the second and last sorts of long s: and much more are bodies begun in these which have uncompleted, or unclosed works on one of the squares, joined sometimes to their fore-side and sometimes to their backside: which I will endeavour to make clear, by distinguishing of them particularly, and that after 4 manner of ways: first, some of them ●●ue onel●e one part coming justly endlonges upon one of the scores, (meaning, so fare as the bounds of each one of them reacheth, and these be 12, to wit, the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 f: 2, 3, 4, l: 5, 6, t: 6 and 7 y. secondly, ●o●e ha●e slenting parts, upon one of the sq●ares, and sometimes upon both: but not closing, or concluding constantly, upon any of them, as these 9 the 6 f, 5, 6, 7, 8 h, 3 i, 1, 5 l, and 4 long s. thirdly, some have no part at all upon any of the squares, but beginning parts, or plain even-downe stalks, coming cross-ways thorough them, as these 6, the 7 f, 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 long s. And fourth, there is only one in question, which partly hath, and partly wanteth a body, which is the 5 ji: for when the latter part thereof is severed from the former part, (as it useth oft to be) the latter part remaineth only a complete body; because it filleth up the room j●st betwixt the two scores, and goeth not over: but the for●er part, neither when it is conjoined with the latter part, nor separated therefrom, can be esteemed either to be a body of itself, or to have one: for albeit it have the beginning of a body on the high square, yet it hath neither progress endlonges, nor conclusion on the low square, but cometh cross-ways under the same. Likewise, by this narrow Calculation, these 4, the 1, 2, 3, 4, h, cannot well be said to have complete bodies, because they ha●e neither progress nor conclusion on the low square: and therefore, it had not been amiss, but a matter indifferent, though they had been counted amongst the number of these which want bodies, as well as the 5 i.  
secondly, 49 have heads, or high parts, going above the high score, but not all alike high, to wit, all the  
3 sorts of — b, the 1, 2, 3, & 4, h, 4 — d, all 5 — k, and 7 — f, and 5 — l, the 5 — r, all 6 — t, all 6 long- s, the 6, 7, 8, single u, the 5 short- s, 3, 4, 5, and 7 w,  
And 94 want heads, which be, all the 4 sorts of- a, the 5, 6, 7, & 8 h, 5 — c, all 6 — i, 10 — e, 5 — m, and 4 — g, 5 — n, 5 — o, 1, 2, 3, 4, short s, 5 — p, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, singl u, and 4 — que 1, 2, & 6, double w, the remnant 9- r, all 4 — x, 7 — y, and 4 — z,  
But of these there be 16, whereof so much as is above the high square of each one, is esteemed as a pendicle to the former sort, which have heads: because it being so fashioned, and situated, the same is not unlike thereunto: and these be, the 4 a: 3, 4, c: 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, e: 5, 6, 7, 8, b: 3, 4, q: 4, and 8, r: for there is somewhat of each one of them above the high square: and yet the same cannot justly be called an head, nor any constant part or parcel of a letter: but some of them be long and small downe-comminge, slenting towards the left hand; which may be called Introductions to the beginnings, or off-comminge, of these letters whereunto they appertain, or wherein they be used; though done in the casting thereof, with one, and the same stroke: as such parts of these 5 letters, the 4 a: 3, 4 c: 3 and 4 q. Some be short, and must needs close narrowly in the casting: as such parts of these 6, the 7, 8, 9 e: 5, 7, and 8 b. And some be indifferent, and unconstant: indifferent, either short or long, as thou pleasest: and unconstant, either made or left unmade, as thou thinkest expedient: which may be named Conclusions, at the finishing of these letters, wherein they be used; though done in the casting, with one, and the same travel: as such parts of these 5, the 4, 10 e: 6 h: 4 and 8 r.  
And thirdly, 48 have tails, feet, or low parts, coming beneath the low square, although not all alike low: and these be, all the  
7 sorts of — f, 4 — que and 4 — g, 6 long — s, the 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, h, 4 — x, 3 and 5 — i, 7 — y, all 5 — p, and 4 — z,  
And 95 want tails: and these be, all the  
4 sorts of- a, and 10 — e, 3 — b, the 1, 2, 3, — h, 5 — c, 1, 2, 4, and 6 i, 4 — d, all 5 — k, 5 — l, 10 — r, 5 — m, 5 short- s, 5 — n, 6 — t, 5 — o, 9 single- u, and 7 — w.  
But of these there be 21, whereof so much as is under the low square of each one, is esteomed as a pendicle to the former sort which have tails; because that part of each one is not unlike thereunto, when the letter is so shapen and bounded: and these letters be, the 3 b, 5 c, 4 d, 7, 8, 9, e, 1, 2, 3, h, 2 i, 4 k, 3, 5, l, 2, 3, m, 2 n, 2 r, 2, 8, single u, 4, and 7 double w: for there be somewhat of each one of them under the low score, and yet the same cannot justly be called a tail, nor any constant part of a letter; but some of them are long and small upgoing, slenting to the right hand, which may be also named Introductions to the off-comming, or casting of such letters; both when they are casten of the like length as they be in the same letters severally in Alphabet, and at the beginnings of words, when these letters whereunto they appertain occur before other letters: which are rather made accidentlie and voluntarily, for garnishing or decoring of writ, than constantly or of necessity to be portions of letters. (I mean so much thereof as be under the low sco) I● like manner, they serve as Bridges or passages of the Pen betwixt letters, both for greater speediness in writing, and more seemly conjoining of letters written; and that when they are casten short, that is, limited betwixt the 2 scores only: as within words, and chiefly in these 31, the 3 b, 5 c, 7 e, 2 i, 4 k, 5 l, 2 m, 2 n, 2 r, 8 single u. 4, and 7 double w. Some be changeable conclusions of letters, since they are sometimes freely made, and sometimes purposely left unmade, at the finishing of letters; and these be used in two letters, the 4 d, and 3 l. Some be changeable, and subject to vicissitude, in respect of their occurrances, & unchangeable in regard of their fashion: by their occurrance, sometimes themselves, and sometimes other Diphthongs for them, will happen to be written in such words as require them: and by their fashion, when the Diphthongs wherein they be used are composed of the 7 e, they keep this shape only; and these Diphthongs be two, the 8, and 9 e. And last, the like parts of these 4, the 1, 2, 3, h, and 3 m; of the which, the 1, and 3, have small downe-comming slenting to the left hand, wherewith they be concluded under the low square, for the viver perceiving and better descearning of each one of them from any of the sorts of b: for otherwise there would be little difference; how soever many, who hold themselves Skilful Writers, use the same: which I think more pertinent in the Roman sorts of such letters, than in these of this Character. To come to the second, so much thereof as is under the low square, both slenteth down to the left hand, and compasseth up to the right hand. And the fourth, hath a compassed stroke, so much whereof as is under the low square, may either be made, or left unmade, (at the beginning) as best pleaseth thee.   

The Comparations, or Descriptions, of Double Letters severally: showing how they are made Double, and united.  
SOme Double Letters of the former Alphabet be separable, and some unseparable: the separable be 16 in number; to wit, the 4 c, 5, 6, 8, 9 e, 4 f, 4, 5 i, 4 l, 4 m, 4 n, 4 o, 4 p, 5 long s, 4 t, and the 1 double vu: and the inseparable, be 6; to wit, the 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 double w. The separable are likewise of 2 sorts: some whereof are natural, or plain; and other some artificial, or curious: (artificial, I say, in respect of their names or sound, as the same is pronounced in syllabication: for according to their external fashion, they are more naturally, at the least more closely doubled, and conjoined, than the other sort.) Natural, or pla●ne, because they are doubled, and united, with letters of one name, in the most common and easy manner: and artificial, or curious, since they are composed of letters having 2 names, after a rare, compact, and obscure manner; notwithstanding their pronunciation be of one at length. These that be naturally double, are 13, to wit, the 4 c, 4 f, 4, 5 i, 4 l, 4 m, 4 n, 4 o, 4 p, 5 s, 4 t, and the 1 vu. And these which be artificially double be 4. the 5, 6, 8 and 9 e; the composition whereof consiste●h most constantly of these 2 sorts of one letter, the 2 and 7 e: the first whereof being composed with the 2 a (as ae, according to the fashion of the 5 e in the Alphabet) hath nothing changed in the composition, but the two letters united, the last part of the first, and the first part of the last, being set above others. Next, with the 2 o, as oe; and that by joining of them likewise together. The last of the two sorts of e, is also componed with the seconde a, and that two ways (as, behold the 8 and 9 e in the Alphabet) each one whereof, signifying no less in Current Writ, than the former sort of Diphthong 5 e, doth in Set and Common: yet the letter a, is not expressed in any of them, but understood in both for speeds cause; and these two sorts of conclusions, (l●ke tails) which they have, are put in place of the a; for making some difference betwixt them, and the other sorts: to wit, the remnant sorts of vowel e: for they being thus form, are much speedier to write; because each one of them is casten with one stroke, than being composed at length with the a, since then there must needs be two.  
And thus fare concerning the Variations, or Degressions; Divisions, or Denominations; and Comparations, or Descriptions, of all the Letters comprehended in the former Alphabet: which serveth both for a Table characterical, by representing of the diversity of most usual Characters; and Syllabicall, by sounding of the Syllables comprehended in the names, or variety of Letters.     

THE ENTRY WHICH LEADETH TO PERFECTION, IN THE ART OF Fair Writing Made open; and the Keys thereof delivered.  
THIS ART hath many Keys to open the same, whereof this former Alphabet is not one of the least; but if either thou want the Key of the Entry, within the which the great Key is kept, (which Entry, and Key thereof, is this present Article, and the use of the same) or yet receive it, and not use the other Key, I mean the chief Key, which thou wilt find there; but suffer it to roost, or lose its clearness; wherein can it be steadable unto thee? For albeit thou have never so great Sums of Money, costly Apparel, dainty Cheer, and wholesome Medicine; yet if thou apply them not unto thyself, to serve thee in thy necessities, each one for its own use: to wit, for paying of thy Debts, covering of thy Nakednesle, quenching of thine Hunger, and curing of thy Disease; what can all these avail thee? But albeit I fear the worst, yet I hope the best: and upon which hope, to wit, that thou wilt endeavour for thine own weal, to peruse this Work, I intend to convoy, at the least direct thee thorough all the secret Cabinets thereof; and deliver to thee the Key of the Entry thereunto, whereby (if thou wilt consider the form, and remember the secret passages, and turnings of the Lock) thou mayest not only open them all, and get entresse for thyself, aye when thou pleasest; but cast up the Yate so wide to the Walls, that even Children may easily follow thee in thereat; and walk peaceably, in a patent Way, leading to the farthest or highest part of the Art, without attending, paying, or praying any janitour to receive thee, or Guide to conduct thee. Which Chief or Great Key, is the reading of this Book, whereby (if thou be any ways capable, diligent, and attentive) thou mayest know, in short space, how to write fair and perfectly: even as well as any who hath some reasonable beginning of learning, may discover and open up any Art whatsoever, with the Key of Reading, perceive what hidden Furniture is within that mystery, by diligent viewing, conceive the secrecy thereof by due consideration, and then put all to its own right use, by practising thereof, both for the particular weal of himself, and the common weal of others. Thus thou both having the Keys in thine own custody, and the way made so patent, strait, and direct, to the airth and place where thou wouldst be, that if thou have any  judgement, insight of natural knowledge, or gift of learning, thou needest not to go wrong: for thou wilt not only see every chief meethes and token in its own place, as was foretold thee in the beginning of this thy journey; but likewise such particular refreshmentes, or variety of new sights, in thy progress, as thou goest from one degree or perfection, to another; that if thou irk, or grow weary in any part of the way, it will be as much in thine own default, as mine.   

THE TRANSITION, OR THROUGH-GOING, Which leadeth to Perfection, in the Art of Fair Writing, made patent: Declaring the Gradation how, Means whereby, and Space how soon it may be attaine● unto.  
PERFECTION IN FAIRE-WRITING, is neither so common nor easy, as each one esteemeth it to be; but so high a thing as few can climb unto, without many steps and degrees: & the way thereunto is so obscure, that as few knoweth it well; because of the rareness of right Guiders: indeed some may well enter on the most pathed parts thereof, sometimes by guess, thorough often resorting. But now, I shall do good will (so fare as it shall please GOD to assist me) to strike out a fair entry in the midedst, and make it so patent and easy, that any may go thorough at the nearest; and walk in all the paths thereof, who have any errand, whether they have company, or not.  
First, I (as it pleaseth GOD, instead of a more skilful foundator) have founded this work on such two strong Pillars, bound together with a Penned in the midst; as I hope, shall stand firmly and constantly up, against all windy and stormy tempest of disputation whatsoever; and these be Knowledge and Practice, joined together with forcibile Reason: which be the whole scope and meaning of the premises; the first whereof is strong, the second stonger, and the third, both strongest and best (of its own nature, though not for the use) for the first and second would be soon overthrown and demolished, were not the third holdeth strongly out against the dint of the blast; and guardeth them mightily with each kind of defence, against every sort of assault; that is, by rendering a relevant reason, wherefore every letter, syllable, word, line or ●●●icle of fair and perfect writing, is written that way, rather as the contrary way. But many, yea even instructors, do content themselves with practice alone, which is but the naked mids, because it wanteth the clothing of understanding and reason on both the sides; for it will endure little storm, when the Winter of trial shall come: and so, each one of those is not unliketo a man beside himself, who walketh naked, and is like to die of-colde; because he is destitute of knowledge and reason, to use means for clothing and defending of his body: to the which two therefore, as well as the third, I will have a special regard; let others Practise by-guesse, or misregard Knowledge and Reason as they please.  
And albeit this Art be not altogether therorical, or contemplative, ●●o●e●lie or of necessity; yet Theory or contemplation, is very expedient for the easier following, or better practising thereof: as by exemple, though Fair Writing, and Ornate Latin, may be both taught and learned, the one, without the speculative Knowledge and Practice of this Book, and the other without the contemplative Knowledge and use of a Grammar; yet, it cannot be denied, but the usage of both these means, is very requisite for both these ends. Also, though a man may go a fair lourney by land on foot; yet we will all confess, that an Horse is very expedient to refresh him, both when he fainteth in the way, and to bring ●im ●he sooner to his journeys end.  
And next, there be two chief Steps, or Deprees, (though very wide) to climb up to Perfection: with this Book, and without it; with it, there be divers inferior Degrees, and narrow Steps, which may all be comprised in two: the one, by reading it, to get the former knowledge: and the other, by practising it, (and sometimes Exemplares written conform) to ge● the former Practice: and so consequently of both will proceed the former Reason, as a most natural and kindly Birth. Which may be all accomplished by any betwixt the age of 40 and 14, who be desirous and circumspect; and that in a month space, they using diligence the most part of each day: yet I seclude none, of whatsoever age or gifts, with longer space: for aye the longer the better, and they so much the perfecter, except they be slothful in the midst. And thereafter, without this Book two ways: with a Copy of unlegeable Writ, and without it: with it, to extract rightly any matter whatsoever, or howsoever written by another: but keeping precisely thine own shape of Letter which thou learnest hereby: that is, not to follow another any further than it agreeth with thine own, (though it should seem never so pleasant) if so be that thine agree with thine own Exemplare. And without a Copy, to write any needful thing thou pleasest, from off thine own mind, neither matter nor letter being before thee: and so forth, studying to wear, piece and piece, from all these means, by order aforesaid, and by degrees hereafter mentioned.  
And although thou be perfect, having thus proceeded, yet cease not, but exercise thy s●l●e sometimes, although it were only to keep thine hand in right use of Practice: for thou having once attained unto any measure of Perfection, (in how short or long space soever) the ofter reading, and longer practising of this Book thereafter, will make thee to have both the more delight, and the greater dexterity: for the first learning of any thing is little in comparison of farther; because it but patheth the way a little to a farther ingress therein, that the steps may be the better known thereafter. But ha●ing learned, won above all, and either beholding others, or coming that way over again, at another time; then consideration will engender conception, conception will bring forth knowledge, knowledge will produce practice; and knowledge and practise tegether will beget reason, and reason will bind and defend all these proceedings. It is hard to cause a Child, so long as he is learning the Latin Rudimentes, understand them a●ight: h●e may well have some superficial scroofe of Skill or 〈◊〉, (unless he be all the more docile and tra●●able) but when he is passed almost thorough the Grammar, and heareth any part of the Rudimentes taught over again, unto other Children, then incontinent he begins ●o consider, conceive, understand, practi●e, reaso●▪ and consequently, not only defend both his own pavinges and doings, by right Grammatical Rules; but likewise in his Disputations to impugn and reform the 〈◊〉 in o●hers. So then, there is but mean knowledge in the way of Learning, in comparison of that which is in the end thereof: and commonly those who s●a●●, ●oone●●, and run fa●test, in the beginning of that race, either becometh feeble before they come to the 〈◊〉, and so are forced to give over; or if they obtain the 〈◊〉, they have little more breath to do any more good: and so they are like hasty or untimely Fruit, soon ripe, soon rotten.  
It hath seldom been seen that the most pregnant Students in the time of their learning, have proved best afterwards; because commonly they both conceit so much of their Skill, and lean so much thereunto, that few of them can take pains, after they have passed their Course, which is the chiefest time, for tha●●se: (for all is but Childrens-play before) but it hath been rather their Condisciples, whom often times they have both despised for Poverty, and derided for Ignorance; who apprehending their own manifold defect, have applied themselves wholly to supply the same so much the more, by their serious studies; and not only have risen up (as it were) from under their feet, unto greater preferment than they themselves: but likewise, at length, have proved happier Instruments of GOD'S Glory, both in Church, and Commonwealth.  
And as each one that runneth this first Race, must begin at the A B C, and read all over again, before either he be perfect of that which he hath learned already, or yet meet to read farther: so if thou wouldst be well grounded in this Art, thou must begin this Book, not only at the Alphabet, but before the same, and read, consider, and practise all of new again, ofter than once: or else all thy proceedings will be fundied, that is, defective, or not well founded: for though Fundying, and right ●ounding, be not fa●re different in letters, yet they are fare enough different in nature. And as we see a Rower in a Boat have his Face one way, contrary to the part where he would be, and the whole power of his Body striving against the Stream or raging Flood another way: so though the Stream of thy Corruptions carry thee somewhat downwards the wrong way perforce: that is, make thee to behold Ignorance and Sluggishness, as things very plausible to Nature, and so choke the growth of Virtue in thee: yet follow not thy Look, but turn about thy Face the contrary way, and bend both thy Strength and Affections to land at the part where th●ne Errand lieth. And although perhaps thou be such a one as hath all Necessaries of this Life, furnished unto thee by thy Parents or Friends, yet trust not too much to the continuance thereof: but so carefully employ thy time, by Learning now, while as thou hast these means, as thou mayest live bonestlie afterwards, when thou wantest them: for nothing here is permanent, but subject to mutability, and vicissitude: and Satan is both a Thief and a Liar in many things, but especially concerning Time. And suppose thou never want means during thy time, there is neither Travel nor Time lost, but well bestowed, which is spent in doing of good: for every one is ordained of GOD to use some lawful Calling, although he have even reasonable Substance whereon to live: and that because the Mind is in a continull Flux, aye moving: not unlike unto a River which runneth uncessantlie, and therefore is set either upon good or evil: for we see Rivers, when they run, prove both profitable and comfortable, sending forth variety of Fishes for Man's sustenance: but when they are restrained, and stand idle, they do nothing but corrupt and dry up themselves, and breed unclean Beasts, both noisome and venomous: Even so, when a Man is well employed, in any g●o● use that he is meetest for, he prooveth a profitable M●●be●●n a Commonwealth: but if otherwise, he be addicted to idleness, he not only misspendeth precious Time, corrupteth and wasteth himself, by unnecessary cogitations; but often times engendereth, and b●inge●h fo●rth, evil Actions, to the great prejudice both of himself, and others. And so I am persuaded, that that Man s●en●eth with better Conscience, who lawfully 〈◊〉 that which he spendeth, though it be never so little; than he that liveth by I furie: except in old Age, and scar●●●ie then: for, as Solomon sayeth, Better i● a little 〈◊〉 righteousness, than great Revenues without equity. Therefore, cast thine Eye● aside, and behold the Creatures of GOD: do not the ve●ie Birds hunger their young ones, not for hatred, but even to teach them for to provide for themselves, as soon as they have any Feathers, wherewith they may sl●●? So ought thy Provisers to teach thee or, if they either be deficient, or negligent, thou oughtest to take hold on Wisdom thyself: at the least, learn that easy lesson at these Creatures, which do want t●● Reason, that thou hast: For, according to that Old ●rove●●e, It i● easy swimming, so long as the Head is borne above. And if other ways, thou have ●arentes, who would fain help thee, and may not, thou oughtest not to despise them, but art bound to love them, and to help them as thou best mayest: for Love (in this point) is like unto water, which will either run downwards, if it have any descent, or else stand still, and putrify in itself, like unto Self-love: for Love seldom ascendeth, (I mean from Children to Parents) except where Grace maketh it to mount above Nature: as Water by Conduits, or other Engines, is sometimes forced to ascend upwardes, contrary its nature.  
And sinallie, didst thou ever see any Man, who neglected Learning when as he might have had it, but rued the same, when bee could not get it? And though such a one have innumerable penitent Condisciples laureated with him in Class; yet both his and their repentance (in that point) prooveth often times too late: because when the Time is too fare expired, it no ways can be redeemed. O then! if Childhood be a pleasant Spring! and Youth-hood a brave Summer! and yet many think Learning then as heavy a Cross, as occurreth unto them either in the Harvest of their ripe Age, or in the Winter of their old Age. If thou were to live another life, besides this, which is wearing to an end: and die another death, besides that which thou must needs suffer here, questionless thou wouldst be very wise and wary the second time, and both do many things which thou leftest undone, and leave many things undone, which thou didst the first time. But because thou hast but one life to spend here, and all things depending on thy diligence and behaviour, in time of the spending thereof, thou shouldest take hold on the short time which thou hast, now while as thy Glass runneth: and that by striving to learn, rather by seeing, than by esseying: I mean, by exemple, like a wise Man, rather than by Experience, like a Fool: For Experience is termed the Schoolmaster of Fools.  
And last, if thou be any ways capable and diligent, it hath pleased GOD, by the Mouth and Witinge of one, who was a learned Man, to give thee this general comfort, in all Learning whatsoever,  Nil tam difficile est, quod non solertia vincat: 
That is, There is nothing so difficile, but diligence may overcome the same: Yea, though it were to transform Ignorance into Science, or banish Ignorance forth, and bring Science in. Endeavour, therefore, to be diligent, and despare not of thy gifts, though they be never so mean: for although the whole Corns in a Country cannot be gotten shorn with Kempers; yet each one, according to his hability, getteth his own part well enough cutted down.  
I return now to the chief degree of Perfection, because it is most necessary and pertinent, and do remit the rest to thine own capacity and diligence, as thou ascendest unto them: which being then in perusing of this Book, after the two several ways afore specified, is thus prescribed.  
Before thou begin to practise, thou must for thine own weal, (though perhaps thou apprehend it not at the first) even take some delight to read and consider the same twice over, or either more or less, as thou findest thine Engine apt and prompt to receive the Instructions therein without doubting: because that is the only way how to attain to the right understanding of the Art: For, Exercise maketh the Mind better to conceive the same by reading; and then Practice maketh the Hand readier to perform that conception, by Writing. But if thou prefer, or give Practise the first place, that is, suffer it to go before Knowledge, it will be so much labour in vain: (I mean chiefly in perusing of this Book) seeing no right Practice can be, without good Knowledge; no good Knowledge, without right Instruction; no right Instruction, but either from Above, or of such as GOD hath gifted to inform and instruct Below: for it is hard for any Man to teach another rightly to do any rare work, which he himself cannot perfectly do first; or to tell the right Tokens of an obscure Way, wherein he never walked: and so right Instruction, maketh good Knowledge; good Knowledge maketh right Practice; and good Knowledge, and right Practice together, including Reason, goeth nearest to Perfection of any thing: and the last of these cannot be rightly done without the help of the first, no more than the Hand can rightly prosecute any other Action, without the aid of the Mind: for as the Mind first imagineth any thing before the Hand execute the same; so the Hand cannot rightly do, except the M●nde first direct. (The Eyes being set as Spectators, obeying the one, and helping the other.) And when thou art thus prepared for Practice, and art to begin the same, strive to follow the several Directions contained in these eight diets following.  
I. When either thou interest to learn, or having somewhat learned before, let the whole Single and Double Letters be casten with double square, both in Alphabet, by the space of three days, and in lines of writ two days: which must needs be justly drawn after this Pattern, of the like distance, or either farther or nearer, as shall be requisite for the quantity of their proportion.  
II. Two days to want the half of the high square, after this manner, but endeavouring to do as if thou hadst it.  
III. Two days to want all the high square, except a little entresse thereof at the beginning; and that for imprinting in thy memory which of two thou wantest, as thus.  
iv Three days to want the high score altogether, and to write on the low score: but still be mindful that it is the high square which is absent; because many oftentimes mistake single square, and that sometimes by making the bodies of letters, half above, half under the same, it being in the midst; and sometimes under the low square, and so nothing above, save heads of letters, as if it were the high square indeed, and not that which it is.  
V Other three days with half single square.  
VI Three days yet with a piece single square, both to show where lines should begin, and how fare distant to make them.  
VII. Without squares altogether, the space of six days.  
And VIII. Let thy writ grow to such a reasonable speed, the space of other six days, being a Month (or thirty days) in the whole, as thou mayest keep every letter thereof of such proportion, quantity, and situation, as thou hast learned the days preceding. Thus much of the Transition, leading the nearest and directest way to Perfection.   

THE ABRIDGEMENT OR breviary OF THE Art of Fair Writing.  

The Prologue.  
IT is the precise and right Term now, whereat I should perform my Promise, in drawing of this Work to a Brevity; and that by making an Abridgement thereof. Surely it doth neither agree with my disposition nor intention, to repeat any thing; yet if I apply not mine Instruction thorough out all the Book, and especially in this place, as well to the capacity of those who can write nothing at all, as of others, who esteem themselves perfect enough already; they will comprise all the rest to little valour. For intercepting of the which light esteemation, I will here (through GOD'S Grace) accomplish that which I promised to do: that thereby the one sort may be sufficiently informed, & instructed: and the other confirmed, and their Skill augmented. For I am persuaded, that whosoever readeth this Book, will not find it altogether so barren of good matter, (though indeed the subject be so esteemed by some) but it doth contain many things which thou never read in any other Book, nor never heard taught of any other man, & so scarcely ever knew of before; or else it were but a sober invention. If I then (as Gods dispensator in this behalf) have set on two Tables, such variety of Dishes that there lacketh nothing, but appetite to receive them; and these whom I have invited, will neither take that which I car●e and offer unto them on the great Table in the Hall, nor this little Table in the Chamber; nor yet choose and take unto themselves such dainties off both as be meetest for them, it is no pity though they want altogether.  
So immediately is insinuated and set down, first, two lines of writ, and ten compendious Precepts, collected forth of both the General and Special parts of this Book, (for thy memory's cause) directed thereupon: and next, a brief Alphabet of Current single and double letters, extracted forth of the great Alphabet: after the which followeth the Conjugations and Formations of all the letters thereof, showing so may as be both conjoined and framed together of one fashion, though of divers names, and beginneth and proceedeth after one manner: first ranked together, and then each one with its own rule by itself, declaring the true progress of the pen therein; and that for the use of all learners, but chiefly of those who would fain learn one form of writ suddenly, leaving all others unto those who may spare longer time, and take greater pains.  
I know, some of those who can write somewhat already, will think it an indignity to begin again at the casting of letters, (I mean severally by order of Alphabet) even as if the action or practice of all writ which ever they have written, or will write, consisted not in the casting and framing of letters: it is never shame to do well, (that is, any thing that may tend to a good use) and (as I said once before) fare better late nor never: for many that can even cast Letters well, cannot cast them the right way, and each one that can cast them the right way, cannot cast them after a comely manner, I mean to begin, follow forth, and accomplish each one, both formally and decently, from the first part thereof to the midst, and from the midst to the last: and if so be, fare less are they able to observe and perform the remnant injunctions, whereof this Art requireth observance and performance.  
And to shun and reject the burden of the which, it may be that some of them allege there be more things prescribed than need requireth, but (to my judgement) there is not an idle Precept in all this Book: indeed, because they cannot be all of a like weight, the greatest sort hath the greatest necessity in the observation: for when any Art is either taught or written, it ought to be taught and written largely, and no necessary thing purposely omitted; because, in the learning and practising thereof, there will be enough, yea too much neglected, that aught to be respected. And so, when all is done that can be done, there resteth enough to do, though at the first, there be no wilful negligence: let instructors therefore strive to know and practise all which be any ways needful and expedient, and Students follow only so maniethings as be most needful, and most expedient.  
And albeit many letters, yea even of one sort, be oftentimes casten after divers ways, which doth proceed of the disconformity of instructing, which hath been in times past; yet all men (with unity of mind) will confess that there is no way so good as the rightest way: and the way here taught and demonstrated, I prove to be the rightest: (let others try or essey as they please) because letters being made conform to it, not only getteth the rightest proportion, casteth and joineth best; but to cast and conjoin are speediest, and being casten and conjoined, are most comely and legeable: and so consequently, the matter contained in them so much the more intelligible.    

A PEDAGOGICAL ADMONITION, OF THAT WISE and learned Clerk, William Lillte, unto his Disciples.  
SCalpellum, Calami, Atramentum, Charta, Libelli, Sint semper Studiis Arma parata tuis.   

The use of this Copy.  
IN the Letters only, and not in the matter, of these two lines of Writ, (as in all others such like) are ten Observations to be marked: the Limiting of Capitals, the Dimitting of Square, the Speediness requisite in Writing, the Fashioning, Measuring, Bounding, and Conjoining of Single and Double Letters, the distance betwixt Letters, Words, and Lines, the difference of Letters, and compactness requisite in all Writ.   

TEN COMPENDIOUS PRECEPTS, Directing how to match the COPY afore-written.  

LIMITATION OF CAPITALS.  
PLace all Beginning Capitals within, above, and under the double square; and all middle Capitals within, and above.   

DIMISSION OF SQVARE.  
Strive to frame and set all the Letters now, as justly without double square, as when thou hadst it.   

EXPEDITION.  
Learn speedily, but writ slowly, till thou canst match the Copy.   

PROPORTION.  
Keep the same equal middles of Letters, in Writ, which thou learnest hereby in Alphabet.   

QVANTITIE.  
MAke the Body, Head, and Tail of each Letter, equal with another of its own sort; in length, breadth, and wideness.   

SITVATION.  
SET all the Bodies of Letters betwixt the scores, Heads above, and Tails under.   

CONJUNCTION.  
Endeavour to conjoin the most part of all Letters within Words, by seldom lifting of the pen.   

DISTANCE.  
LEt almost all Letters within words, Words within lines, and Lines within Pages, be equal distant, each one of its own kind from another.   

DIFFERENCE.  
Every Letter must differ somewhat from another in fashion, and have some greatness and smallness: but compassed Letters indifferency.   

COMPREHENSION.  
Comprehend thy Writ in little bounds; and that rather of Letters within words, than of Words with words, or Lines with lines, except of necessity.   

The Epilogue, or Closing up of the Pattern, and Precepts.  
IMADE Choice of the former two Verses, whereon these Precepts have resulted, as a Pattern to follow, for the letters which it containeth, and a Precept to observe, for the matter comprehended therein; because each one of them tendeth to the well of the subject I have in hand: and that chiefly for the use of those who would fain go the nearest way to learn. A Pattern to follow (I say) for two causes: first, because it maketh mention of such comely Armour as is requisite for Scholars always to carry, when they march in that Conflict betwixt Science and Ignorance, (which they think a Battle indeed, though it be the most peaceable time that many of them will ever have in the world again.) Next, because it serveth in stead of an Exemplare of Practice, to be resembled here; that while as they writ thereby, it may keep them in memory to prepare such things as without the which they can hardly resemble it, or any other. And a Precept to observe, I said: for albeit it be commonly both in every Students memory, and repeated by them; yet because sundry of them are slack, and careless in preparing of those Necessaries, I ●ake occasion here to reiterate the same: for nothing can be too often commanded, that is not well obeyed.    

AN ORATION, BEFORE THE BRIEF ALPHABET.  
IF thou be one that wouldst soon learn, it is for thy cause that this Alphabet of Current Letters following, being 48 in number, as they be divers in sorts, are chosen and extracted forth of the great Alphabet, and casten by degrees in this manner following: and that both for thy better consideration of them all in general, and imitation of each one in particular. And if thou be any ways tractable and careful to learn, thou mayst hereby understand them aswell, and follow them better, than if thou hadst seen them written by any skilful Master Writer after the ordinary form: (that is, without more instruction, than they commonly use to give) and whereas thou mayest perhaps allege, he would both do & speak, that is, both writ, and tell how to write; writ Exemplars, and declare how to to follow them: my answer is, thy alledgeance may well hold against a bare Exemplar Book, but not against this; for such a book may well show thee the end afar off, but it concealeth the way that leadeth thereunto; and so will suffer thee to fall into an hundereth ditches, if thou shouldest walk therein without a guide: it showeth thee a little indeed, what to follow, but neither the means whereby, nor the manner how to follow; and so is a most obscure teacher every way: yea, and so senseless that it cannot do so much, as sign it's own meaning: why then, is it any marvel that these books be for the most part to all learners un-imitable, and few the better thereof that buy them? It is not the beholding of a fair complete Palace, that can teach a young Mason (newly passed Apprentize) to build, or be Master of Work to the like; but he must needs either be present at the founding of such a one, and still continue till it be accomplished, or else have the knowledge of some secret precepts of that Art or Craft, either left unto him by some near friend, who hath been a cunning Master Builder (he then being ingenious and careful to practise them) that must first teach him. But this Book, as it pleaseth GOD doth all these things, which it cannot do; it not only showeth the end, the means, and the way how to win thereunto; but how to shun all dangers in the way, and come safely to the end. A●d albeit it uttereth not by voice, yet it so expresseth its own meaning, both by literal instruction and demonstration, that any of common judgement, who can read, may understand the same perfectly, without any interpreter: for by the private means of reading, and ocular demonstration figuratively of things read, all careful Students in humane Sciences, learneth and profiteth as much, yea, I may say fare more, than by public hearing. And when all is done, whether they learn by word or Writ, by these books, or this book, as I said of before in another place, that as Practice avails little without knowledge; even so knowledge availeth as little without practice.  
Further, if thou wouldst know the vive proportion, quantity, and situation of the bodies, heads, and tails of letters, either behold, or single them out as they stand in the great Alphabet; and how each one is compared or described in the Comparations or Descriptions thereof preceding this place: and if thou wouldst know how many strokes may serve to cast each one before the pen be lifted, either behold them, or else abstract them forth of the Narration following hereafter: by which means thou mayest have sufficient information and instruction thereanent; and that by thine own diligence: for I think thou art not so ignorant, but thou knowest unto whom thou workest, and whose errand thou goest.  
This summary or Compende then, is not only coherent with the Comparations and Transition going before; but is so knit, and linked with the Narration, and Rules of Perfection following after, that it cannot be separated therefrom: at the least, would not be much steadable, if so it were. And so, if the Transition be the way which leadeth unto perfection, this Compende is the end of the way, and the very Yate or Entry unto Perfection itself.  
A BRIEF ALPHABET, OF CURRENT Single and Double Letters.   

THE CONIUGATIONS, AND FORMATIONS OF ALL THE Letters of this brief Alphabet: Set down both for themselves, and for all other Letters of this kind, whether in the great Alphabet, or else where;  
Showing so many as be conjoined and fra med together of one fashion, though of divers names, and beginneth, proceedeth, and concludeth after one manner: First ranked conjunctly, or together, and then severally, that is, each one with the own Rule by itself, declaring the true progress of the Pen therein.  
1 beginneth upon the high Square, and cometh somewhat back: 2, descendeth to the low Square: 3, slenteth up again therefrom, unto the place where it began: 4, turneth down again unto the low Square: and 5, concludeth with a sharp dash, by ascending a little within the last downe-comming. So it is almost quadrant, and containeth 5 parts, the 1 small, the 2 great; the 3 small, the 4 great, and the 5 small: howbeit they be all casten with one strike of the pen, before it be taken up.  
beginneth and proceedeth betwixt the scores, as the same sort of a: but when it slenteth up again, it must be brought from under the lowest Square, after that it hath come strait down.  
1 beginneth, and proceedeth betwixt the Squares, as the former sorts: 2, cometh strait down, under the low score, as the same sort of que but concludeth evenlie back to the left hand: and 3, cometh either back again within itself a little, for making of the last part great, or goeth somewhat downwards, as thou pleasest.  
1 beginneth upon the high score: 2, compasseth down under the low square: and 3, meeteth either precisely where it began, or very near that part.  
1 cometh from above the high Square, slenting thereunto, or somewhat farther down, as thou pleasest: 2, slenteth contrariwise to the low score: and 3, concludeth with a stroke going endlonges the high score, precisely from betwixt the several slentes.  
1 cometh likewise from above the high Square, slenting both thereunto, and down under, or over the same, to the low Square: 2, turneth sharp, by going a piece endlonges the sa●e: 3, slenteth up again, to the high Square: 4, down again thereon, (that is, covering the most part of the up-going) to the low Square yet: and 5, concludeth, by ascending a little within that downe-comming.  
1 beginneth, and proceedeth betwixt the Scores, as the last sort of a; but slenteth up again, from under the low Score, after that it hath come strait down: and 2, boweth a little to the right hand, in the last great part thereof betwixt the Scores.  
1 beginneth, and proceedeth betwixt the Squares, as this last q: 2, slenteth down to right hand, under the low Square: and 3, goeth up, compassing closely, and closing towards the same.  
1 beginneth betwixt the two Scores: 2, slenteth upwardes, and compasseth narrowly somewhat above the high Square: 3, cometh strait down, a little under the low Score: 4, declineth back, somewhat towards the left hand: and 5, compasseth wide, evenlie forth, or narrowly upwardes, as thou thinkest expedient.  
1 beginneth and proceedeth upon and above the Squares, as the other: 2, slenteth or declineth to the right hand, in the downe-comming: 3, compasseth to the left hand: and 4, closeth on the low Square.  
1 ariseth from under the low Score, and slenteth up to the high Square: 2, down again to the low Square: and 3, slenteth up again, somewhat within the downe-comming.  
1 ariseth as the i, and goeth an hair breadth above the high Square: 2, cometh thence to the low Score: 3, ascendeth somewhat again: and 4, concludeth, with a strike going justly alonges the high Square.  
1 ariseth also as the i: 2, cometh evenlie down again to the low Score: 3, goeth narrowly up, a little above the high Square, and meeteth thereon: and 4, closeth, while as it goeth thorough, endlonges the high Score.  
and 1 beginneth, and proceedeth, in like manner as the i: and 2, each one hath the same doubled, and conjoined together; excepting so fare as one Introduction, or tocomming, serveth both the parts of each one of them. But there is a mark set over the last, for the better descearning thereof from the first, not unlike this Printed sort of v, whi●h is chiefly used when there is moe Minum Letters in that Syllable.  
hath the foresaid i tripled, and conjoined in the same manner.  
1 beginneth either a little above the high Score, or under the low Score, and goeth up thereunto, as thou pleasest: 2, compasseth up, and cometh strait down to the low Score: and 3, concludeth either in going endlonges the same a little, or slenting somewhat up, as thou thinkest hastiest, and best.  
1 beginneth above the high Score, compasseth up, and cometh strait down to the low Score, as the l; but whereas the one goeth a little endlonges the same there, or ascendeth somewhat from thence, the tail of the other cometh as fare under the low Score, as the head thereof went above the high Score.  
1 beginneth, and proceedeth, in the same manner: and 2, concludeth with a strike thorough it, on, or endlonges the high Square.  
1 beginneth, and proceedeth, in the same manner, till it come to the low Score: 2, it goeth somewhat endlonges the same: 3, goeth therefrom to the high Score: and 4, closeth in thereon, to the fore-side of the stalk.  
1, beginneth, and proceedeth, in the same manner yet, till it come to the low square: 2, returneth therefrom up within the stalk again to the high score: and 3, maketh half a compass, concluding under the low score.  
1, beginneth and proceedeth in the same form, till it come to the low square: 2, slenteth up therefrom to the high score: 3, compasseth down narrowly to the midst betwixt the squares: and 4, either closeth in to the last part, or cometh thorough both the parts, before it conclude even forth.  
●, beginneth and proceedeth as the b, till it come to the closing on the high score; then within the close part or body thereof, is only added a conclusion not unlike unto the 2 r in the great Alphabet, or the 1 r in the small: (secluding the tocomming or entrance thereof which cometh from under the low square) but the body of this letter must be somewhat wider or higher, than the body of the b, that is, a little above the high square, for the better receiving of this augmentation within the same without blotting; and that only when it is hastily written: also, in casting thereof, thou must spend little of the wideness in the first part of the turning within, and leave most to the last, for fear of maculation.  
●, beginneth and proceedeth as the l, when the l concludeth in ascending a little; and then the remnant thereof proceedeth and endeth as the b: but both the parts of the head thereof, to be somewhat lower than the heads of any of these two Exemplar letters.  
1, compasseth from the high square to the low; and 2, compasseth upwardes again, and concludeth where it began.  
1, beginneth and proceedeth betwixt the scores in the same manner, and 2, concludeth in slenting above the high square towards the left hand.  
1, beginneth and proceedeth in the same form also, both betwixt and above the scores; but compasseth or turneth back again: and 2, concludeth (on the high square) where it began.  
●, beginneth and proceedeth in the same manner yet; but concludeth with a crooked dash under the low square towards the left hand.  
1, beginneth on the high score, and slenteth towards the right hand to the low score: and 2, compasseth up again in closing or meeting where it began.  
1, beginneth and proceedeth in the like manner betwixt the squares; 2, cometh strait down under the low square: and 3, slenteth upwards again towards the same.  
●, beginneth and proceedeth in the same form; but hath a fair compass under the low square, either evenlie forth, or upwards, as best pleaseth thee.  
1, beginneth with the like slent from the high score to the low; and 2, goeth sometime up within the same, to the high score, and sometime it requireth to have the pen lifted, and set there again, that it may come thence to the low score: and 3, compasseth under the same like unto the tail of the last letter.  
1, beginneth upon the high square: 2, sometimes cometh strait down under the low square: 3, goeth endlongs thorough ●hereon in making of half a compass closing on the high square: and 4, oftentimes the whole body is made betwixt the Scores, before the stalk come under them. But the last way is not so sure as the first: for the Letter being speedily so written, will appear both like the first r, and second p, of this Alphabet, very often: and so make that word to be doubtful, till the Sentence resolve the same.  
1 ariseth from under the low Square: 2, flenteth up to the high Square: 3, goeth endlonges the same: 4, slenteth down a little to the left hand, more than midway betwixt the Scores: 5, goeth up a little within that downe-comming, and cometh with a contrary slent, towards the right hand, to the low Square: and 6, slenteth up within the same half way to the high Score. So it is just quadrant, and consisteth of five parts, as the first a of this Alphabet.  
●, beginneth, and proceedeth, under and betwixt the Squares in the same manner; save only the one concludeth by ascending a little from the high Score, and the other, cometh down under the same, and endeth with an open compass; either evenlie forth, or somewhat ascending, as thou pleasest.  
1, beginneth on the high Score, in going a little endlonges the same: 2, descendeth thence to the low Score: 3, goeth somewhat wide up again: and 4, concludeth by going a little endlonges the same.  
1, beginneth, and proceedeth, as the other, until it come to the low Score: 2. ascendeth within the downe-comming, and returneth, and closeth, in the midst, betwixt the Squares: and thirdly, concludeth, by going somewhat alonges the low Square. The third of these parts may be the seconde, or the second the third, which thou thinkest best.  
and 1, begin, proceed, and conclude, as the two former sorts of them, in this Alphabet: but these here, are open compassed above the high Square, whereas the other two are close compassed.  
1, beginneth on the high Square, and compasseth towards the left hand, to the low Square: 2, goeth thorough where it began, and slenteth towards the right hand, somewhat above the high Square: and thirdly, concludeth somewhat towards the left hand, by setting of the Pen sadly down.  
1, descendeth from above the high Square, to the low: and 2, hath a strike going thorough upon, or endlonges, the high Square.  
1, descendeth, in the same manner: 2, cometh under the low Square: 3, it hath a strike, joined unto that part thereof where i● began, which boweth forth wards a little.  
1, beginneth, and proceedeth, above, betwixt, and under the Scores, as the other f: 2, is made somewhat higher, and cometh down, compassing to the high Square; and that inwardly, either to, or thorough, the stalk thereof, as thou shalt think most expedient: and 3, goeth directly forth a little, and concludeth downwards, either to, or somewhat under, the low Square.  
1, beninneth and proceedeth above, betwixt, and under the Squares, in the preceding manner; but ariseth somewhat higher than at the beginning: 2, cometh even down narrowly to the high Score; 3, slenteth and groweth to some wideness under the same towards the right hand: and 4, concludeth with a slent contrary to the former, that is, towards the left hand.  
1, ariseth from under the low Score, and mounteth above the high Score, to the right hand; 2, slenteth down to the low Score, towards the same hand: and 3, closeth on, or betwixt the Scores, as the b.  
1, ariseth and mounteth in that same form; 2, cometh strait down to the low Score: 3, goeth up again justy as high as of before; 4, cometh strait down again: and 5, concludeth as the former.  
1, beginneth at the high Square; 2, goeth a little endlongs thereon: 3, slenteth towards the left hand, some farther down to the low Square: and 4, compasseth upwards under the same.  
●, beginneth, proceedeth, and concludeth as the other; but compasseth twice under the low Square: the first whereof, as that part of the former letter, but the last contrary thereunto.  
Here endeth the Abridgement.   

AN NARRATION, Demonstrating so many strokes as may serve in the casting of each Single and Double Letter of the great Alphabet, without taking up of the Pen from the Paper, Except Ink fail therein, before the Letter be completed.  
IN casting of each one of the Single and Double Letters, of the great Alphabet, with so many strikes (one or moe) as may suffice the same, without lifting of the pen; thou must take heed to the right calculation thereof, and reckon them in this manner: to wit, thou must count aye the first down-setting of the pen, till it be once taken up, and the same up-taking, for the first strike; the second setting, and second up-taking, for the second strike; and the third setting, and third up-taking, for the third strike: and so they divide themselves into three ranks, with an indifferent rank serving them all. In like manner, there be 3 sorts of strokes, commonly used in casting of all letters, to wit, Constant, Variable, and Deficient; all the fore said three sorts of strokes are constant, the 4 variable; and as for the deficient, or defective sort, it is oftest used in conjoining of letters within words, with common or borrowed strokes; they not having any belonging properly unto themselves.  
FIrst, let 72 letters of the number in the great Alphabet, be written only with one strike, or once setting down of the pen upon the paper, before it be taken up again, and these be, the  
2, 3, 4, — a, 5, 6, 7, 8, h, 2, 3, — b, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, i, 3, 4, — d, 4, 5, — k, 7, 8, 9, 10, e, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, — l, 2, 3, 4, — g, 2, 3, 4, — m, 2, 3, 4, — n, 2, 6, — s, 3, 5, — o, 4, 5, — s, 5 — p, 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, - u, 2, 3, 4, — que 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, w, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, r, 2, 3, 4, — x, 6, 7, — y, and the 1, 2, 3, 4, — z.  
And because, the unskilful may perchance begin some of these letters at the wrong side, though they have but one strike, I will therefore set down only the beginning of each one of them, for removing of all doubts; so that they cannot begin them wrong (for I hope they will not be so childish as to cast them backwards) which is a lesson as imitable, as if thou saw them written by any Master of this Arte.  
NOTA.  
I omit the sorts of Capital A in these Rules; because, any of sober skill, by considering of the single and double letters which be here specified, may not only understand how these few; but all sorts of Capitals represented thereby, and pertaining to the long Alphabet are casten, and how often the pen should be lifted in doing thereof; even as easily as the whole single and double letters of the same Alphabet, may be understood to be casten by degrees, by those few number contained in the Rules of the short Alphabet:  
secondly, let 45 letters be casten with two strikes, or twice setting down and lifting up of the pen, these be, the 1, — a, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, e, 1, — b, 2, 5, 6, 7, f, 1, 2, 3, 5, c, 1, — g, 1, — d, 1, 2, — h, 5, — i, 1, — que 1, 2, 3, — k, 1, — r, 1, — n, 1, 3, 4, — s, 1, 2, 4, — o, 1, 2, 3, — s, 1,2,3,5,6, — t, 1,6,7, — u, and the 3, — w.  
And since it is hard to descearne rightly the two several strikes of each letter, and right way of the pen in casting thereof, when they are joined together, as in the Alphabet; which cometh by occasion of the lifting of the pen once betwixt the doing of them; I have therefore thought good to mark every one, whereby the doing of each strike may be distinctly known: and that by leaving a defect, or open part, betwixt the two strikes, where the pen must be taken up; and the tick or piece, taken, or rather withheld forth thereof, put beside it, for the better knowing of the precise part where they are conjoined; to wit, betwixt the ending of the first strike, and beginning of the second: which defect, therefore, is not left here to be resembled, but the several parts of Letters thereby the better perceived.  
thirdly, let ten Letters be casten with three strikes, or thrice downe-setting of the pen, to wit, the 4, c: 1, 3, 4, f: 1, m: 1, 2, p: 5, ss: 4, t: and the 1, x: which be likewise set down in manner, and for the cause immediately before exprimed; but with two wants: because each one of them all hath three several strikes, except these two, which have four, to wit, the 4 cc, and ff.  
fourthly, let these 14 Letters, the 2, d: 2, 3, g: 3, 4, h: 5, n: 9, 10, r: 4, u: and the 2, 3, 4, 5, y: be written indifferently, in respect of their variableness, and inconstancy, to wit, with one stroke of the pen, as they occur in any of the two sorts of Current Writ, as here thou mayest perceive how they begin.  
And with two strikes, in any of the two sorts of Common Writ, as here their several strikes may be seen.  
And last, these two, the 5, m: and 4, pp: the one with one stroke of the pen in Current Writ, and three in Common Writ; and the other casten with two strikes in Current, and four in Common.  
Thus fare tend the Rules of Information, concerning Single and Double Letters: as for Capitals, which would seem more difficile, and therefore more needful to have been thus severed by parts, for knowing thereby of their several strokes; it is true, if they behoved to be first learned, thou wouldst find them harder to follow than these: but since thou art thus trained up, with the knowledge and exercise of Single and Double Letters (being the easiest sort) first, and not the less most needful; because all Writing standeth most by them, as said is, I think it not requisite to be so tedious as to explain the Capitals: for by the sight of them in the great Alphabet, and by the Rules of their Limitation, thou mayest both easily consider their number of strokes, and suddenly resemble them. And although they might be as easily declared in that manner, as the Single and Double Letters, yet because they keep not such a constant fashion, being so often altered, either by adding some more work unto them, or by substracting some strokes from them, (at the option of the Writer, as he findeth opportunity) they cannot well be directed by Precepts, to keep any constant number of strikes.  
Therefore, I must needs apply mine Instruction in this behalf, somewhat to the ordinary form of Masters to their Disciples; who in teaching of any Science, teach much indeed, but remit fare more to their own private Study: and besides both, they must even conceive many things, which are understood by one thing expressed: a fair Face absent, by the Picture thereof present: but here the most part is expressed, and declared, and the least understood, and remitted.   

THE RULES OF PERFECTION, IN Fair Writing: Concerning the right Proportioning, Measuring, and situating, of Single and Inseparable Double Letters; as also the conjoining thereof within words, as they occur, which chiefly consisteth in seldom lifting of the Pen, while as they be written.  
SInce thou hast been taught that all single and double letters in the Alphabet, have either bodies, heads, or tails, and some of them all three; let the like equality of bodies, heads, and tails of letters, be kept in lines of writ, as they have on double square in Alphabet, whether thou have double square indeed, or but imagine thou hast it: that is to say, the bodies of all such letters as have them, must fill the room betwixt the two squares, the heads go above the high square, & the tails come under the low square: and as it is true by Doctrine of Precept, so is it true by Exemple of Practice; behold the whole single and double letters in the great Alphabet, if they be not so framed, measured and bounded: except only the fift o, which requireth sometime to be written almost above the high square, (for speeds cause) when it occurreth in Current Writ, after the 5 t, as is probable by that same letter standing in these words,  
Let so fare of the down-comming strike requiring to be great, of all single and double letters, as shall happen to fall in betwixt the scores, (or fill up the breadth of the line) be made strait, and neither  asquint to the right hand, nor to the left, as these two, the 2 b, and 2 f: excepting first these 9, the 4 a, 3, 4, c, 3, 4, que and the 1, 2, 3, 4, s; which require to decline to the right hand, where the lines end. And next, the bodies of all letters in the Alphabet, which have any form of compassing or roundness within.  
And if thou be inclined to cause the most part of thy letters decline, or lean to the right hand (as all men commonly are) the only remedy is, that thou strive against that thy inclination, till thou subdue that wrong form of declination; and that by causing them lean to the left hand, or margin, where all lines begin (save the lines of the Hebrew Character, and some others) and by so doing, thou mayest the more easily command thine hand, to keep an indifferent means betwixt both, that is, to make all the letters of this Character to stand strait up and down, except these before excepted.  
Let the heads of all single and double letters, which have them, be of a like height above the high square, whether they be compassed heads, crooked, or slented; but the last sort, not to be altogether so high as the other two: compassed, two manner of ways; close and open, close compassed heads, ascending small, and descending great, as these two, the 2 b, and 5 f: and open compassed, also ascending small, and descending great, as the 2 f, and 2 s: crooked heads, going up small, and concluding great, as the 5 s; or coming down great to the right hand, as the 5 w, or small to the left hand, as the 5, t: and slented heads, ascending small, and descending great, as the 8, single v: or concluding great, as the 2, d: or concluding small, as the 7, f: or yet beginning small up, and growing great down, as the 1, or 2, t. But the heads of these two, the 3, f, and s, require not only to be higher, or elevated, and exalted, beyond other Letters, above the high Score; but likewise wider compassed than any of those which fall under the Rule, and the heads of these five, the 1, d: 6, t: 3, 4, and 6, w: to be shorter, or not so high, as any of these which come within the compass thereof.  
Let the tails of all the Single and Double Letters be alike low under the low Square, whether they be casten strait down, remaining still; strait down, returning up; or compassed about: yet the sharp points of the first sort, maketh the tails thereof to come somewhat lower than the other two: which, therefore, shall not be counted in their length, so long as the liberty thereof is not abused; that is, by making them so long out of measure, that they do harm unto divers Letters in the Lines following, after the Lines wherein they stand, as the French sorts of these Letters commonly do. The Letters which be strait down, remaining still, are, the 2, f, and s: strait down, returning up, as the 5, p, and 3, q: and compassed about, as the 4, h, and 2, y. But the tails of these four, the 3, g: 4, x: 5, y: and 4, z, require not only to be lower, or farther under the low Score: but wider compassed than any of these which observe the Rule: and the tails of these five, the 4, g: 3, 4, p: 4, q: and 6, y, to be shorter, or not so low, as any of those which come within the reach of the Rule.  
Let none of the compassed tails of these seven letters, the 4, 5, h, 2 x, 2, 4, y, and 2, 3, z, be any farther forth under the low square, than the foremost part of each one of them which is betwixt the scores, to the effect, the higher and lower part thereof being not only alike forth both up an down, a small strike or lineament of the pen may go directly up (both for the causes of greater speed, and better conjoining) from the tail of any of them, as they occur, and that to the next Letter following within that word, (if there be any, and require such a tocomming) but likewise each one of them may so hold itself within its own bounds, as that the quantity thereof may do no harm to Lines following, if any shall happen to be, as in these words:  
Except in the last Line of thy Writ, although their tails be both farther forth, and longer, yet small strokes (if so I may call them) may go directly up from them, and yet do no harm, because no more Lines will follow, as of this quantity, in the two Exemples following, (if thou pleasest) thou mayest make the two Letters which begin them, both when they go up unto Letters which admit small strikes to come unto them, and when Letters chance to ensue which admit none: so testimonies of both do appear by these words:  
Let the cross strikes of each one of these two Letters, f, and t, with the 4 g, go thorough them, justly and lightly on either side, endlonges the high Square, likewise of these five, the 3, 4, 5, c: 3, and 7, e, whereof every one hath a strike proceeding from it, on the fore (or last) side only: and also the cross strikes happening to these 36, the  
1, 2,- b, 2, — e, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, o, 1, 2, — c, 1, 2, 3,- g, 1, 2, — p, 1, 2, 3, 4, d, 1, 3,- h, 2, — que 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, single v, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, double w,  1, x, 1, y, 1, z,  
With these five, the 2, p: 5, m, n, & single u, when each one of them is casten with divers strokes, and the 4, or double pp, when it is casten with maniest; none of them having any strike at all, seen or expressed, while each one is set alone, as in the Alphabet; but altogether understood: for although none of themselves have either cross strikes going thorough them, or any other strike at all proceeding from them, (except the last d and e here expressed) because they are otherwise proportioned: yet, as each one of them happeneth to be accompanied with another, or yet with other Letters in any word, it is found to have a little small strike, going there from, unto any of the former sorts, sometimes justly, endlonges the high Square, and sometimes to arise from the last side of each one of them, the distance of an hair breadth, under the same, as the entry to the Letter immediately following requireth; which doth slent up thorough the high Square, to the beginning of that Letter, if it admit such a beginning; or to any other, that hath any entresse at all, to the effect that it may lean closely to the first side thereof, except only the sorts of long s, but chiefly the 2, 3, and 6, thereof: and that both for the greater speediness in writing, and more seemly conjoining of all Letters in thy Writ, as in these words:  
Yet the strike going thorough the 2, or 5, f, in the Alphabet, is oftentimes used to be on the low Square, when any of them chanceth to precede the 3, or 5, o, in any word, but chiefly of Current Writ, as is evident by these:  
Although thou hast been taught to make all Letters within words alike near; yet draw the cross strikes coming thorough Letters on either side, or from them, on the fore-side only, (that is, the side towards the right hand) somewhat farther forth, where, or when Letters wanting heads do follow, which admit strikes from former Letters to begin them: and chiefly the strike going thorough the 2, t: for nevertheless that former Rule and this agree; since in distance betwixt Letters standing within words, the first and last parts, (that is, the nearest parts) of them, is as much reckoned as the stalks thereof, where thorough these cross strikes come; and that whether endlonges, or cross-ways the Squares, as in these words:  
If thou intendest to be a speedy Writer, remember that thou lift not the pen, (except to take Ink) to, nor within the casting, of any Single or Double Letter, made with one strike, within a word; lest thereby, besides slowness in the action, thou make defects in casting of these whole, or uncutted Letters, (whole, I say, because albeit they may be casten and learned by parts, or degrees, in manner before specified; yet they are never severed by several strikes, as the remnant Single and Double) neither yet take the pen up to the casting or beginning of any Letter of divers strikes within itself, nor after the casting of any single or double letter of this Character, (as is usually done in learning to write them severally by order of Alphabet, where there is a good distance left betwixt every two) but let the last or readiest part of the letter which thou hast already written, begin the first or nearest part of the letter, which next followeth to be written; and that by drawing a little whit or light touch from the one to the other, as in the letters of these words,  
And since there be divers exceptions from this Rule, I divide them into four ranks, both for the causes of better consideration, and remembrance thereof: 1, there be some letters which must needs have the pen taken up both to, and after, the casting of each one of them; 2, some only to the casting; 3, some after the casting (as for the up-taking in the casting of letters, I omit it, because it must needs be dove; and therefore ought not to be restrained) and 4, there be some which have no constant or fast strokes going from them to others, but a movable or variable of-set, arising from a clozed conclusion of the one which precedeth, and added to the nearest part of the other, that followeth, which serveth as a Bridge for passage to the pen betwixt them, and so it is doubtful unto which of the two it belongeth.  
The first sort, is two fold; first, the whole single letters which properly belongeth to the principal sorts of Set writ, being 23 in number, with the 2 w, belonging also thereunto; are excepted from this Rule, and that as they are written strictly, but not largely: Strictlie, because it is a superior form, and therefore, and in respect of the excellency and curiosity of all the letters thereof, above any of the remnant forms of Secretary, it cannot be so well directed to be fast written as any of them; for it is the fountain, and they are but the conduits; and partly for that respect, and partly, because it is slow of itself, and for the most part close every way, that is, wanting passage from letter to letter; so●e liberty must needs be granted unto the Exercers thereof, to lift the pen so much the ofter in writing of the same. But if thou wilt consider them largely, albeit the most part of the letters therein while as they are in writing, cannot so commodiously and conveniently arise each one forth of another, as the letters in the rest of the forms; and therefore the pen must be so much the ofter taken up; yet, being written, the most part of all the Letters in the same, are found little worse conjoined, with strikes leaning thereunto, often times upon one of the sides, and some times on both, as if the Pen did proceed orderly, out thorough one, and in thorough another; as may be made clear by these words, consisting of such letters:  
And secondly, these three sorts of one Letter, the 2, 3, and 6, s, are accepted for two causes: first, because the Pen must needs be twice taken up, in casting of each one of them, (beside the up-taking thereof in the midst of the middle-moste) to wit, to the casting, and after the casting, to begin the Letter following; which I make plain, by the standing of such Letters, in these words:  
And next, because none of them can suffer any cross strikes, coming justly endlonges the high Square; either thorough, or from, whatsoever Letters, to touch them on any side, but especially the side towards the right hand, lest thereby they have no difference from the 2, f; as doth appear by the like Letters, in these words:  
And so thou must take heed, that thou draw no strikes unadvisedlie thorough Letters: that is, thou shouldest foresee whether or not the Letter resulting requireth such a strike to begin the same: for in so doing, without deliberation, thou wilt not only do harm to the aforesaid three Letters; but often times to some others also, such as the second n, and u, and thereby cause each one of them appear like the 2, a: as in these words:  
But both from the high heads of the first and last of the same three sorts of s, when they are casten upwardes, and not downewrdes, and the higher head of the middlemost, there may arise many Letters, as the matter requireth; which be of two sorts, having heads, and wanting heads: but all those which have heads, save the four sorts of d, arise more comely and pertinently, than any of the other sort, which want heads, unless it be a few, which begin with sharp slenting strokes, above the high Square, and ariseth, or cometh off, no less comely than the other sort: the first ariseth both in the seconde sort of Set hand, and any sort of Common, and these be 21, the 3 sorts of b: 2, 3, 4, d: 2, 5, f: 2, 3, 4, h: 2, 3, 4, 5, k: 1, 2, 5, l: and 1, 2, 5, t: with the same three sorts of s, themselves, as any of them happeneth to be after another in any word whatsoever, by way of doubling: as the like Letters in these words give sufficient probation:  
And next, the seconde sort, ariseth only in the two sorts of Current Writ, somewhat more superficially to keep the Pen unlifted, which be 47. in number, to wit, the 2, 3, 4, — a, 2, 3, 4, — g, 2, 3, — c, 5, 7, — h, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,- e, 2, 3, 4, 5, — i, 2, 5, — m, 3, 5, — p, 2, 5, — n, 2, 3, 4, — que 3, 4, 5, — o, 2, 3, 6, 9,- r, 2, 3, 5, — u, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, y, and the 2, 4, — z.  
As in these words:  
In like manner, these two sorts of one Letter, the 6, 7, single v, which of themselves have neither entresse for other Letters to come in to any of them, or begin them, nor yet any constant off-set, proceeding from them unto others, and therefore the Pen must needs both be taken up to the casting of each one of them, and after: and so, when they are found to be joined with other Letters, either before them, behind them, or both; these on-sets, and off-sets, coming, or going, to them, or from them, do belong to those other Letters, by right of proportion, rather as unto them: for a thing may ser●e oft times in common unto many, by courteous toleration of the owner, and yet be proper but to one: and so when the Propriety faileth, the Community wanteth: the conjoining, therefore, of the which Letters, may be perceived in these words:  
The seconde sort of the Letters excepted from the last Rule, be these ten, the 4, a: 3, 4, c: 2, f: 3, 4, q: and 2, 3, 4, 5, t: because the Pen must be contmuallie lifted, to the casting of each one of them, since they have no entresse to receive any of themselves, as they meet again, or shall happen to be doubled in a word, save this form of meeting, of these two, the 2, f, and 2, t; and that two ways, the f, with f; and f, with t: first, when the f, standeth in a word, and the like happeneth to follow, it doth become a double ff: that is, when the even-downe stalk thereof is begun first, and not the compass of the head, and so then falleth under the Rule, because the Pen is neither lifted to the casting of the same, nor after. And next, the f, with t: that is, when the t followeth after the f, the Pen is neither lifted to the casting thereof, nor yet after, and therefore it observeth the Rule also: as Exemples of both may be understood, by such Letters, contained in these words:  
Neither yet hath any of this preceding number enters (that is, access on the left side) to receive any other Letter, which hath a passage forth, whereby they can be rightly begun, (the ●earest part of them may well be touched, or leaned unto) except only the foresaid 2, 3, and 6, s, which indeed may receive any of them; that is, arise there from, or join after the same; save these two, the 4, cc, and tt: as I approve by such Letters, in these words,  

NOTA.  
None of these seven Letters, the 2, 3, a: 2, 3, g: 2, 3, o: and 2, que can neither arise well, from the tails of any of themselves, (occurring twice in one word) nor any others.  
The thirde sort of Letters excepted, be these three, the 7, h: 3, x: and 3, y; because the Pen must be taken up, after the casting of each one of them, to begin any Letter following, within a word, (howbeit they be most proper in the end thereof) whether it require a stroke or not, to begin the same, as in these words:  
And the fourth, and last sort, be these eight Letters, the 2, 5, 6, c: 3, h: 2, o: 2, p: 9, r: and 3, w, are excepted: these three also, the 5, m, n, and u, when each one of them is written with divers strikes: and these two, the 2, and 3, g, when each one of them is written with one strike, because the Pen must be also lifted after the casting of each one of them, to the casting of any Letter following, whether it requireth a strike, or not. And albeit neither these 13 Letters in the whole before mentioned, nor these nine, the 3, 4, 5, o: 8, 9, single v: 4, 5, 6, and 7, w: nor yet the 3, p, when it is written with two strokes, hath any passage to other Letters, which can any wise belong unto them, by the right of shape, as may be seen to enlacke in each one of these sorts, as they stand here alone, and that because each one of them endeth with a closed conclusion, except the three Minum letters; yet, as they occur in words, they find out, and have some passage, wherein the Pen resorteth amongst themselves, as they meet again in words, though it be somewhat lifted after the casting of the foresaid 8, but most after the h, t, and sorts of g: and also it goeth from any of them, to whatsoever others which have an●e enters; and that either upon, or a little under the high square; and no wise to be lifted after the casting of any of the remnant here expressed; but to arise either from off the same square, or go endlongs thereon, either to any of themselves as they obviate others again, or to whatsoever others which require such a beginning; whether having heads, or wanting them: for although all Letters join not together on both the sides, yet usually, either the foremost side of every one of them is joined to the hindermost side of the letter precceding the same, if it be not the first of a word; or else the last side thereof to the letter following, if it be not the last of a word. Or, to be short, each letter must be joined unto another, either before, after, or both: and if any be exemed, or excepted from this Rule & Exception, (for in this point it is both) it must be chiefly the said 2, 3, and 6 s, before reserved, the 5, and 6 e, in the Alphabet, and the 2 o, here expressed: and for thy better consideration of the particulars of this exception, thou hast these Exemples, which do contain some of the letters here specified, wherein the way of the pen may be easily perceived,    

THE CONSTRUCTIONS Of Fair Writing: Or right contriving, setting, and ordering of Letters in Fair Writ: Beginning first here, at the placing of Letters rightly in Syllables; and then proceeding from Syllables to Words, and last, from Words to Sentences.  

SECT. II. CONCERNING SYLLABLES.  
A Syllable, is the pronouncing of one or more Letters joined with one breath.  
Seeing Syllables are composed of Single or Double letters, the matter here to be treated, is the right making up of Syllables with Letters, or right placing of Letters in Syllables.  
A Syllable, may admit any one or more of the Single and inseparable Double Leters, or any one of the 5 separable double which follow to be spoken off, to wit, the 5, 6 8, 9, e, being Diphthongs, and the 5 n, as the nature thereof requireth; & sometimes though two letters belong to a syllable, one is expressed only, another understood, and a little room left void for the same, with a crooked dash made like a Comma, set over it; which is used in Poesies for the Verse cause, as in the last Syllables of these words,  
And so, if thou canst spell, or syllable well, and place the Letters rightly, which follow hereafter, that is, as they are directed to be; thou needst neither to make up Syllables of wrong Letters, by nature or sound; nor place Letters wrong in Syllables, by a disagreeable proportion.  
Let no Syllable accept of a Single v, in place of a Double w, as in these words,  
nor a Double w, in place of a Single, as in these words,  
but place each one in its own room, both conform to the nature of the word, wherein it standeth, and to the sound of the Syllable, whereof it is a part; which Syllable sometimes requireth a whole or full voice, as in the first Syllable of each one of the first words, when they are rightly set; as thus,  
and sometimes a half, or at least, not altogether so full; as in the first Syllable of each one of the last words, being also rightly Sillabed,  
Let any beginning and middle Syllable of whatsoever English word, wherein there is divers Syllables, receive a vowel u, in the midst; as also in the ending, except sometimes when any of these 3 other vowels, a, e, or o, doth precede, than there requireth a Double w; and any ending Syllable in the midst only: (that is, any part within the border Letters thereof, and not aye the precise middle letter of the same) but neither any ending Syllable of a word in the beginning nor ending, nor yet any beginning nor middle Syllable in the beginning, except some consonant either immediately follow, or that there be no more letters in that Syllable; and so the beginning, midst, & ensding thereof consisting all in one: the proof of sundry whereof, may be perceived in some Syllables of these words,  
A Syllable must neither receive a Single Consonant v, in the midst, nor ending; but always in the beginning, as in the latter Syllables of these words,  
Let any Syllable in the ending, which concludeth with any of these two Letters, m and n, have them rather written short than long, that is, rather abreviated, leaving some letters to the consideration of the Reader, than at length by expressing of them all; but chiefly when that Syllable consisteth of Minum Letters: because in this Character, these Letters will be so much the more legeable in any word wherein they stand, as in these two,  
But indeed two breviations are neither seemly nor legeable in Syllables of one word: and although I have set a Double mm, in the Alphabet, yet it ought rather to be written in Great and second sort of Set Writ, where abreviations be seldom used, than in Small and Current Writ, where they oftentimes occur.  
Let no beginning nor middle Syllable within a word where there is divers Syllables, rereive a whole separable Double Letter, but be severed in twain, for two Syllables together, that is, one Double making two Single in syllabication; the one whereof, to be the last of the first Syllable, and the other, to be the first of the last Syllable; and seldom any manner of way, either before or after a conscnant: as may be easily noted by such letters in any of these words,  
the right practice of the writing of the which separable letters, is chiefly known at the end of a line, where if they be not separated, to wit, the one, at the ending of one line, and the other, at the beginning of another line; with some mark or touch of the pen left there, whereby whosoever that readeth the same, may know in reading of the same line, that the rest of that word followeth in the next line; thine ignorance or carelessness will appear, by that thine own labour: but any Latin Syllable requisite, may receive any of these six the 5, 6, 8, 9, e, and the 5, ji: as in these words:  
Let any Syllable seldom receive any of these four Letters, the 4, a: 3, c: 3, and 4, que when those which have the high, or higher sort of heads immediately result; but rather to precede those which want heads, or have but the shorter sort of them: lest if they which have heads be not attentively convoyed another way from the slenting strikes of the forenamed forbidden Letters, the most part of all which be above the high Square of the one sort of Letter, will be stained, and defaced, by the other; and that because no Letters wanting heads do interveane: as may be perceived by such Letters, receiving the like damnage, in these words:  

ANNOTATION.  
The 3, or consonant j, hath commomlie a tail, both when it occurreth in one Syllable alone, and when it is conjoined unto a vowel i, that is, made conform to the 5 ji, in thee Al●babet; or, as it is insert in the foresaid word, adjicio, howbeit it was wont to be contrariwayes, to wit, the longest j, put in the last place, for the more speedy writing, or hasty arising thereof from off the other: it is certain, that the way now used thereof, is the best way, howsoever it be the long somest way; it may be, that a near by-rodde be not ill, if the passage thereof be anywayes good; but I think the high way, is both surer and better, suppo●e it be somewhat about: but when the aforesaid Double Letter occurreth in two Syllables together, they require to be short both alike and so become as the 4 ji, in the Alphabet, or as in the word, ●s.    

SECT. III. Concerning Words.  
A word, is an absolute and perfect voice, whereby some thing is meant or signified.  
A word, is sometimes composed of divers Syllables, and sometimes of one Syllable only; which oftentimes containeth sundry Letters, and sometimes but one.  
And because the composing of Syllables in Words, belongeth not to Calligraphie or Fair Writing, but to Orthography of right Sillabing; I will not insist therein, but hold foorthwards the purpose I have in hand, that is, to declare how to place Letters in Words: which I will endeavour to do, in the self same manner observed in Syllables.  
Let no word receive any of these 18 Letters, the 3 a, 4 d, 4, 10, e, 6, 7, f, 6 h, 3 l, 3 n, 4, 8, 10, r, the 5 sorts of short ●, and 3 t, in the beginning, nor midst; but always in the ending, which therefore are called, Final Letters: as in the end of every Word of this Sentence,  
Let no Word admit any of these 5 sorts of one Letter, the 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 long s, in the ending, (as Final Letters) but always in the beginning and midst; as in these Words,  
Let no Word receive the 7 w, in the midst, but always in the beginning and ending; as in these,  
because some of mean skill will readily suppone that it be rather the 5 l, and 2 b, conveaned together, than that which it is; and so make the Word wherein it is written, to be oft mistaken (except in so fare as the sense of the matter will prove otherwise to them, if they have any reasonable understanding) as it may indeed, in these words, (if the words which otherways they appear to be, were any language)  
And howsoever it may be alleged, that none of those two Current sorts of w, the 4, and 6, can be written with such speed as the other sort of w, immediately exprimed; I answer, the first of the two may be as speedily written indeed, as it: and although it were not, yet that word wherein it shall happen to be found, (I mean in the midst) will be easier read, than if the other letter were in place thereof, because it is so doubtful as said is: and as to the last, I will not take upon me to defend the sufficiency of it; but rather give mine Advise to discharge it, seeing it is more like unto these two Letters, the 2, l, and 3, o, in this manner, io, than that wherefore it is put; and that because it hath no kind of head to make any discrepance from these Letters: except only that the first of them hath a tick set over the same, which the w wanteth, and is oftentimes neglected in writing, above the Letter, where it should be set: as also, neither is the single sort of the said last w allowable, because it is like the Current, or 5, o; nor yet the other w, because it is so uncertain.  
No word in the midst, nor ending, must receive any of these 14 Letters, the 3, b: 5, c: 7, e: 2, i: 4, k: 5, l: 2, m, n, r, and vowel u: 4, consonant v: 4, and 7, double w; but always in the beginning: or else each of them must renounce so much of the sharp stroke thereof as is under the low Square: and likewise the 3, m, when it hath the small compassed strike: the proof of this Rule doth appear by this Exemple,  
Let any Latin word requisite admit a Vowel u, as well in the ending, as in the beginning, and midst, before a Consonant, as in these,   

SECT. iv Concerning Sentences, or Lines.  
A SENTENCE, or LINE of WRIT, is an Oration, containing a general pronunciation, which either exhorteth, dissuadeth, demonstrateth, or declareth.  
SENTENCES, or LINES, (being the fourth or last of the Signs which signify the Voice) do consist in the composing of Words.  
A Sentence, is some times comprehended in diver●e Lines, some times in one Line, and some times in a word; and which word, being written in big Letters, will some times exceed a line of great length.  
And for as much a● the composing or constructing of words (whereof Sentences do consist) belongeth unto the Latin Grammar, I will not digress, but declare briefly what letters should begin Sentences, and lines, as well according to their nature, as proportion; and both how and where to begin them: and whereas they be often times begun otherways, that is, with other letters than b●e here allowed to begin them; it is done ignorantly, or negligently, in the first; and accidentlie, or occasionally, in the last.  
Begin no Sentence but with a Capital letter: if it be a beginning Sentence, of a matter, or page, let it be a Beginning Capital: if it be a middle Sentence, (that is, in the midst of a page, or matter, contained therein already begun) let it be a middle Capital: likewise, a middle Capital must ever immediately follow a complete period, at the concluding of the last Sentence preceding the same; and either begin a proper name with itself, or else make it to consist wholly of its own associates. The Exemple of this Canon, may be seen in this sentence, at length:  
When thou beginnest any line, save the first, either with letters wanting heads, or having but the shorter sort of them, let them be begun so fare down, from the preceding line, as thou mayst have sufficient room above the high Square of that line which thou shalt happen to begin, for these which have the high and higher sort of herds, and for middle Capitals, (I speak of Square, as if it were always expressed: for I am persuaded, thou art not so ignorant now, but thou knowest what is meaned by imaginary Square) except these four, the 4, a: 3, c: 3, and 4, q: because they have small slenting strikes above the high Score. And when thou beginnest any line with the letters themselves which have high heads, or with middle capitals, let them be so hie up as thou hast room above the high Square, without doing harm to any Letters in the last written line. But beware while thou so beginnest with any letter of either sort, that thou take not thy measure by tails of letters belonging to the line preceding; but by the lowest part of their bodies, on the low Square. And for thy better attaining unto this Perfection, it will not be amiss, though thou make 2 small tickes at the beginning of every line, to represent the 2 Squares; to wit, one for the high Square, or high part of the bodies of letters; and another for the low Square, or low part of the bodies of them: to the intent, that th● bodies, heads, and tails of letters, may be the righter and comelier situated thereupon, in the beginning of the line, and so proceeding justly, as on two Squares, unto the end of the line, and so consequently, to the end of all which thou so writest; lest one line be too fare distant, and another over near, and so make thy Writ both unlegeable, and unseemelie. The observation whereof, may be perceived in the Exemple, or Exemplare, of the last Rule.  
Let the first line of Matter, Page, or Article, have these two letters, the 3, f, and s, properl●e to belong unto it; lest if their heads being made of such quantity, (as in Alphabet,) in any other line, where there is no such void bounds above, they molest some letters in the line going before, as thou mayest perceive in these Exemples of Caution, but not of Imitation,  
Let only beginnings of lines have these four letters properly to belong unto them, the 3, g: 5, w: 4, y: and 3, z: for if they be insert in any other parts of lines, their heads and tails will also hurt other letters, and so make confusion of thy Writ: the proof of which Rule doth appear by these four words, set at the beginning of these four lines following.  

NOTA.  
There is great need, in the Pronouncing and S●l●abing o● English, of a sort of a, to be pronounced like the Greek Letter ν, and o● an u, to be pronounced like v: and if any Letter ●e superfluous in the English Alphabet, it is likeliest to be z: not that it can be well spared neither, but because it remaineth ydlest o● any Letter.  
As also these Syllables, ca, ce, co, cum, neither agree, nor go forwardly alike, with the Letter c, howbeit it be a thing usual: nor t-●, for ci: and sundry other absurdities, which might be remedied, if regard were had thereunto: but because they agree not well to my purpose, I remit them to Writers of Orthography.     

THE CONCLUSION, Somewhat concerning Puncts, and Accents; as also Abreviations, and of the Effayres, and Writs, wherein they are most used.  
NOw in end, it resteth only that I speak of Puncts, Accents, and Abreviations, used in Writ: albeit the writing of Puncts and Accents, doth belong unto this Art, yet the nature and use of them pertaineth to the Hebrew, Latin, and Greek Grammars, and other Authors; where they be largely taught: wherefore I think it neither needful to declare how to write them, because they are so plain and easy, nor yet to enter in discourse thereanent; but remit thee unto these places, where if thou be learned, thou art already, if not, thou mayest be sufficiently informed of their definitions and observations; and if thou be not learned, thou hast little use for Puncts, and no use for Accents.  
An Abreviation, is the contracting or signifying of some Syllables or Letters; and that either by one or more Letters themselves, or some other significative stroke or sign made with the pen, known sometimes by Proportion, sometimes by Situation, and sometime by both.  
When thou writest or extractest hastily any matter of little weight, it is the right and convenient time, to write the most usual Abreviations either of Words, Syllables, or Letters, as occurreth in the matter, and useth or requireth to be abreviated or written short: for many things must be written even concerning weighty matters, such as Engrosments, Epistles, Counts, Scrolls, Minutes, and others of that nature, which need seldom to be written long, (that is, with all the Letters at length) or yet in the best sorts of writ. And while as they be sometimes otherwise found, it proceedeth rather of the will and disposition of the diligent Writer, by whom they are written, the Person to whom, or both, than being aniwayes requisite of their own nature; seeing they are neither heretable rights for long endurance, perfect Patterns of learned men's works for the Printing, nor Testificats to other Nations: but, if it be thy will to prolong time in so doing, and declare thy cunning in writing of employments better than they use to be, rather than in any worse exercise; I for my part shall both think thy travel well bestowed, and condescend thereunto with little solicitation.  
Abreviations, or contractions therefore, being most frequent in such and the like business, requireth to be written in Current Writ; because there is little disparity betwixt the nature of these two: for as Current Writ is not chosen in such affairs, for any goodness in itself, being the off-scouring and worst of all writ, but only for the swiftness; even so Abreviations are not used for any goodness in themselves, seeing they but figure Letters, and Letters paint the Voice, or demonstrate the mind; and so being a degree farther in place, are a degree worse in nature: which therefore, must rather be considered Hierogly phicallie, & Mystically, by signification of Sense, than Sillabically, by sound, or syllabication of Syllable; and that because the Letters themselves are not all expressed, nor present, whereby to make an harmony; but a great part thereof contracted, and absent; and so therefore are but understood to be, or imagined as if they were. Indeed some of the most legeable Abreviations may agree to the two sorts of Common hand, aswell as the two sorts of Current hand, but seldom, or never, to the two sorts of Set hand.  
Which Abreviations, I think not expedient to collect, and insert here, nor yet to be curious in describing of them; but rather to remit them unto thine own experiment, and to the daily practic of the Country, as they occur to thee in the Words and Sentences of the Writs and Securities wherein they are most used; and that for two respects:  
First, albeit the writing of them belongeth to Chirographie, yet their signification is not pertinent to be here; seeing the same pertaineth to Orthography: and is to be found (at the least, understood by certain signs expressed) in frequenting of the former Sentences of Writs; that is, by often reading, extracting, or considering, of the same; either of purpose to learn them, or for the better performance of thy necessary negotiations, and that in the company of any cunning Clerk or Notare, (with whom thou mayest have such farther knowledge and exercise, as may either bring thee to some good Calling, or help thee to manage thine Estate, if thou be borne to Rents) and though I should bestow travel on the collecting, and charges of the making of Types for Printing, exponing, and presenting of them unto thy sight in a Tatalogue; yet all would be unprofitable, and needless, for want of their significations, unto the which the bounds of this Discourse doth not reach.  
Next, because all the preceding Rules of this Book are so infallible, that (to my simple judgement) they need not in substance to be altered: and so it would be more ridiculous, than judicious, to add any thereunto which be changeable now in the end of this last intch, more than in the whole span.  
These Abreviations (I say) are Changeable for two Causes: first, because for the most part every sort of Abreviation is found commonly to have two or three significations almost as often as one; and so are rather understood by the Sentence wherein they are, than by the form or manner of their contracting: in respect whereof, few or none of them can either be commanded, or contramaunded by Rules, to keep any single signification, yea, scarcely a double.  
And last, because some of them are made freely, and some constraynedlie, these that are said to be made freely, or resolutely, are voluntarily made at the particular will of the Writer: for every Mechanic Man esteemeth much of his own conceit: and it is hard to comprise the true valour thereof, howsoever perhaps in his own imagination it be worth the half of his Rent.  
And these Abreviations, which are said to be made constraynedlie, or indeliberatelie, are abruptly made, by occasion of haste, and consequently of fast Writing, yea, oftentimes for lack of convenient time and place: because Necessity hath no Law, and so is not capable of Reproof.  
FINIS.   

AN ABSTRACT OF THE OBJECTIONS AND EXCEPTIONS, WHICH WERE PROPONED BY CERTAIN of the Learned, (to hinder the Accomplishment and Publication of this preceding Work) ANSWERED BY THE AUTHOR.  

I.  
SOme do extenuate the Commendation of the Art of fair Writing, and say, What needeth it to be so highly extolled, and much set by, since it is common? Unto whom I answer: It is so fare from being common, that scarcely one of an hundreth who have the Name of Fair Writers, knoweth the Theoric thereof perfectly, without the which (as a thing very expedient) they can hardly be perfect: and fare less the Common sort, who content themselves with the common Practice, which is full of absurdness and incongruity: as is probable by either of their Works, who list to try them on the former Touchstone, or confer them with the preceding Grammatical Precepts.   

II.  
Others, will not give over this Point altogether yet, but draw it to farther length, saying, Though the Art of Fair Writing bee rare, yet Writing itself, (meaning the Tractise of the Art) is common enough, and therefore needeth not to be in so great account. To whom also I answer: The community and participation of excellent gifts, derogateth not the renown and estimation thereof, if they be rightly used: for what gifts in the world are more excellent, yea, more honourable than Wisdom and Learning? and yet (praised be GOD) what less common are they than Fair Writing? and so the very practice thereof keepeth the own Prerogatives for three causes: First, since it is needful for every Estaie, from the highest, unto the lowest, and by consequent so much the more in preferment; why ought it not then to be so much the more regarded by all Estates, and made common amongst all Estates? secondly, It is not so common neither as need doth require; for although it be common amongst many, who be come to perfect age, yet it is not so amongst all, but such as be somewhat learned otherways: & though it were, yet it is not a whit the more known by untaught Youth: yea, though they be even procreated of Skilful Parents; and the reason thereof is this, It goeth not by succession, nor yet by election, but by GOD'S free dispensation, apprehended by the ordinary mean of particular endeavour: wherefore the Children both of Noble and Learned men, and no Attourneyes for them, must with as great difficulty learn, before they can write, as i● their Parents had never learned nor written a Letter. And thirdly, although Writing be common both amongst many who be aged and learned, yet Fa●●e and Perfect Writing is rare, and in great request, amongst all of whatsoever age or gifts, (though not altogether in such measure as in former Ages) for it is one thing to write, and another to write well; and so the one as different from the other, as a Disciple from a Master.   

III.  
It is alleged by some, That this Ar●e hath been written in some part of the World of before, although in another form; and therefore is not so rare here as it would appear to be. Whereunto I answer: It is rare nevertheless; for, giving, and not granting, that it ha●h been written in any part, or in any form, (as is not imposstble) it is neither so universal, nor oft written, by divers Writers, as other Art's bee● and verily for mine own part it was never exposed to my senses, neither was I out of SCOTLAND to learn the same, nor yet taught within, except of the Great TEACHER of all Teachers; but had the common Liberty, (I mean, either to learn, or not to learn, as I pleased, after the awonted form of Grammar Schools, wherein Writing was not taught nor professed. And although I had seen, heard, and been taught so to do, as also had traveled to Foreign Nations, where such kind of Virtue is well maintained, and therefore aboundeth, as the most provident Bee worketh best in the richest Garden; it would have been little prejudicial to the reputation of the Art here set down: for as the foundation or invention of any Work, vindicateth the first place; so the Work rightly built thereon, is worthy of the second: but being utterly demolished, and then re-edified both better, and in a better form, it will at length obtain the first▪ at the least, be most in use, and in greatest request: and so the best Work, whether it be the first or last, will win the greatest commendation, how many soever be to presume for the same: as the farthest caster of the double Cannon, hath more popular praise, in presence of many Contenders, and Spectators, than of few: for when one essayeth his Strength and Skill, and neither having an equal to match him, nor a token set up before him, demonstrating some fare cast or throw of another; the most he can do at that time, is either to surmatch himself, in striving to cause every cast freethe another, or to set up some sign, fare or near, to essay at another time, without purchasing of any present applause.  
Indeed, there are some common Precepts of this Art both universal and oft written, by divers Writers, which, so fare as I have seen, & found right, I reiterate and confirm here, as few old buildings, be altogether so ruinous, but either some Stones or Timber thereof may serve to help the new: and on the contrary, such Precepts as be otherways, or agree not with this Character, as it is now practised, I reject altogether; as more unfit for any use, than the very Red or off-scouringe of old Buildings: for the one cannot do so much as help to defend the Art whereof it would appear to be a part, but the other, although it cannot be steadable to the walls of new work, yet it may suffice to fill up a part of the Rampart thereof, and so aid the same with some kind of Fence. So either these Precepts have been wrong from the beginning, or else the use of them is changed, thorough long continuance of time, (wherein every thing changeth, except the Blessed Creator of all things) as the most exquisite humane Invention of old, is mightily both metamorphosed and augmented now, by some cunning Translator: not that the Author thereof hath been inferior to him in Skill, (as we must charitably judge) for the Author thereof had no Pattern at all to follow: and therefore so long as his foundation standeth, he is worthy to have place: at the least his Work, if his Name be suppressed: whereas the Translator and augmenter catcheth sometimes a three-folde advantage: first, by inspection of the foundation laid by the foundator: next, by inspection of newer Editions made thereof, at the least, of the practices of Generations or Times, betwixt the Author and him: and thirdly, by the practice of the translator and augmenters own time, and that perhaps in a fare later age.  
But these precepts immediately before mentioned are so few, unnecessary, difficile, and confused, that few can be able to practise them aright, without the belpe of an instructor; and although each one easily might, they could attain thereby to no perfection in Fair Writing, without much farther instruction: and so, the most complete, necessary, plain, methodical, and consequently the best Work, out of all question will be thought the rarest Work, and at the highest rate; what Work, or whose Work so ever it be, only if GOD be the principal efficient, or true Author thereof.   

iv  
It is objected by some, that this Art being published, will apparently make such a conformity of Writ every where, that it will be hard to discern one Manu-script from another, and so make the Subscriptions of Evidences doubtful: I answer, that is a very naked Assertion, for two causes; first, although it could be possible, that all the Writers henceforth who are to be in the World, might be taught in one School, by on● Instructor, and with constant Rules alike; yet such would be the natural disparity of each ones particular form of doing from another, that as each one differeth in Physiognomy or face, (which is not one of the least of GOD'S miraculous Works) so also in Chirographie, or form of Letter; howsoever the contrary would appear at the first view, as many people not well acquainted, have mistaken others oftentimes at the first, thorough appearance or similitude of gesture; yet with narrower marking, and viver attention, have so found it otherways, that they have excused themselves of that their error.  
Indeed, there hath been some evil inclined ones, who have studied to use, (or rather abuse) their skill in affectating & counter fetting of some particular man's form of Writ, and yet could not write well any pleasant form, rather than to hold them with a general  Character: but it is fare easier for a fair Scribener to follow one of the most curious universal forms that is now used, than any particular man's ragged form, though they were both alike lawful: whereby it is evident that the writing of divers general forms of writ is one thing, and the following of particular men's writ, is another; and whosoever holdeth the contrary opinion, doth greatly err.  
I confess, how many so ever (that be well minded) do write one matter, with one form of Letter, may all agree in the substance thereof; though they differ in the manner of the doing: even as a whole Class of Theologues teaching one Text; or six several Authors writing one subject in fare distant places, at one time, may all agree in effect, though they differ in Method, and yet not know one of another.  
And last, it is not altogether the Subscription of Evidences that verifieth the truth of the matter thereof, but in like manner the Seal of the Subscriber, and Testification of the Witnesses, which were present at the Subscribing: and so, though it were granted, that all men's Writ might be conform, (as is impossible, ever since the confusion of Languages, at the desolation of the Tower of Babel) there be divers Laws established, almost universally, (Glory be to GOD) not only to keep every man in his Right, but likewise to punish condignly those who do wrong.   

V  
It is alleged by sundry, That it is impossible that the Art contained in this Book can be so good as personal or verbal instruction forth of the mouth of a Professor: and therefore the single or bare use of the the same cannot be very profitable for the Youth, and such like alleadgeances. I answer: If any thing that is thought impossible to be done, ever come to pass, it is both the more regarded and admired when it cometh: so, I hope, contrary to their hope, that the like shall befall it: for an ordinary and commo● thing, hath but a light and bare applause, although the even● even prove good: Who thinketh it any cunning to draw Water out of a Fountain where it aboundeth? to work any common labour on dry land, or bear weighty burdens, after the ordinary manner, by many and strong means? But there be some few private men, who have found out ways to convoy Water to a dry City, work under the Sea, transport great Stones and Timber by few and weak means, but very rare, and do sundry charitable and common works in the Country, that all the Generations before them did not so much as once dream of: yea, this same Generation mocked them in the beginning, but yet as they saw these Attempts accomplished, and the success prove contrary unto their incredulous expectation, they were fain to hold their peace, (because of the contrary sway them of the multitude) & admire the working of these works which of before they thought impossible to work.  
It hath seldom been multitudes or communities sitting in their Gowns together, that have devised the maniest and rarest good works, they might well (after long solicitation of charitable minded men) establish and uphold them by authority and maintenance, when they were proponed, and found out to their hand: but it hath been private men, for the most part, of whom they have often times esteemed least, who have been inventors of all Policy, and good works, in a Commonwealth.  
It is true, Men can do no Miracles, nor work Impossibilities now a days: yet things which are impossible with Men, are possible with GOD: for he can work his Works by contraries, as by making all things of nothing, by bringing Light out of Darkness, Life out of Death, and by afflicting his Saints, that he may glorify them: and even yet when he worketh by Men, be chooseth commonly the weakest Instruments for the greatest Works, that his Glory may so much the more appear: yea, further, he suffereth his best Works oftentimes to have maniest difficulties, to the intent that when they are done, and all impediments trodden under foot; his glory may yet be so much the greater, by how much they have been impeded.  
Indeed, it may be that this Book be not altogether meet for young Scholars at Grammar Schools, yet I hope it will be profitable for the elder sort of them, & for all Students in Universities, in respect of their farther years, knowledge, and learning: for if personal instruction consisteth in audible information, and visible practice, so instruction by Book standeth in legeable information, and imitable practice. Read the secundary cause of the Argument, and the first part of the Narration, again.   

VI  
It is excepted against this Book, That it will be a motive to abstract a great number of the Youth from Writing or Vulgar Schools, and be so greatly prejudicial to the estate of Vulgar Masters, (who must needs live by their Calling) that it will both procure hatred unto itself, and the Author thereof: and so forth. I answer: It will serve for very few of their number, and so abstract them very little: for now, in this Age, where one remaineth in the Schools until he be fourteen years old, ten leave them before that time: and although it were otherways, they would learn so much sooner, by this Book, in the company, and by the advice of a Skilful Writer, than by their own private pains, and so prejudge him nothing of his awonted Due; if his Condition be, To teach them for so much, and not for such a space: and few under that age, can be able to make much profit thereby, except under the pedagogy of an Instructor.  
Indeed, I think it better, that each one learn to write in some reasonable measure perfectly, before he begin either Grammar, or Philosophy, for helping him to effectate his purpose both the sooner and better, than after the same, but never in the midst, except at some vacand hours by this Book, for the reasons contained in the fift secundary cause of the Argument. Likewise, such Masters of Grammar Schools, or their under Teachers, as do profess to teach this Book at certain diets to their Scholars, may instruct any Child of reasonable age or knowledge, almost as soon by these means, to be both a Scholar and a Writer, as when he is put to a Vulgar Master, only to learn to Write: and therefore one transumpt hereof is not only requisite to be bound in Volume with the Latin Grammar, for each one that learneth the same, that he may learn to spell English by the one, as well as Latin by the other; but likewise with any English Book for Lectors, that thereby they may learn to read both. Print and Writ at once; beside the knowledge how to Write.  
Moreover, this Book will not only ease all cunning Masters of Writing very much of their travels, by making all their several instructions conformable and agreeable, (how fare soever they be distant in place) and so work the more effect, as is declared in the third secundary cause of the Argument; but I hope one Extract thereof will inform a whole School how to follow their Exemplars; and then fare more when each one, at the least every two or three have one, wherewith either to confer together, or to peruse day about: and therefore the number of their Scholars will so much the more increase, by how much more hereby their pains will be effectual: Consequently both this Work, and the worker thereof, by the means will deserve love in stead of hatred. But if any of them think otherways, and would have their hearts desire any ways satisfied, surely they shall have a very sufficient mends, providing they will bestow the expenses; let them buy all the Extracts of this Book, and either burn them all at once in a fair fire together, or else pine them away one after another, in kindling of their Tobacco; and I shall never quarrel them for their violence.   

VII.  
It is farther excepted against this Book, that not only there be divers Rules and Sentences therein, and chiefly concerning the seldom uptaking of the Pen, somewhat more prolixt and large than need requireth, and therefore the more tedious to read; but likewise some Sentences repeated, some parts very barren and haske, too many similitudes applied, and that the Preambles and Postscripts are little less, than all the rest of the Book: and so forth. I answer to the first part, that I do so of purpose, because it behooveth t● be, for these two reasons: First, although the aged may peruse it, and profit thereby, yet it is chiefly directed unto the Youth, as of weaker judgement, at the lest neither so careful in using of the means to conceive, nor yet in practising of any good conception: yea, to many, who perhaps have never been in a School to learn. And secondly, because it is the first Impression, and therefore requireth to be the more ample: for if it please GOD to spare me till this Essay be censured abroad, corrected, and reform, I intend to have the Rules thereof made shorter, and published in Verse, (both for the better getting, and keeping thereof in memory, and likewise the remnant in better Prose, Language, and Method: for the which respect I have now made choice rather to adventure it forth somewhat blockish, (that is, with the Paringes thereon) than to presume at mine own hand to pair it too near at the first: for that which appeareth to be good to one, will perhaps seem bad to another: and none will deny, but it is as easy to subtract and diminish, as to multiply and augment. Always, though the body of the Work be somewhat great, yet the Abridgement, and chiefly the ten Precepts thereof, are as short as possibly they might. And as concerning the ampleness of those places, concerning the uptaking of the Pen from the Paper, they could not be so well nor plain otherways; because, first I bring the most part of Letters once under a Rule, and so many as be excepted, do come in by way of exception, by so many ranks as the Pen requireth to be lifted: for even ●s Latin words (to wit, Similes Casus, & Modos,) standing in Sentences, are coupled with Conjunctions, &, atque, etc. so must Letters be conjoined with others of their own sort in written words, and that by a small joining strike of the Pen going betwixt them.  
To the second part I answer, that there is no repetition at all, but where it must needs be: and when any is, it is rather by appearance, than in effect: for if one part confirm another, it but linketh the whole Book together, as it ought: and what one part wanteth, another hath, without any frivolous repetition. Doth not the very Sacred Scripture itself agree in passages and phrases, each part exponing another? and the Heavenly matter thereof dispersed and sprinkled thorough out all: for one part hath the occasions, or time of the occurrence, or doing of a thing; another the place; the third, the causes; the fourth, the effect: and so forth. Thus each one being first conferred with another, and then joined together, do make up a whole and complete sense: for though there be many Inhabitants in a flourishing City, yet no man is any more ordained for himself only, than he can live by himself alone, without the help of others: and so each one ought to do good to another, by borrowing and lending, (giving and forgiving) ●● Citizen's all of one City.  
To the third part I answer: That there is no Art nor History, but in some parts thereof the contents and matter is more bask and barren, than in another, if thou wilt enter into particular consideration thereof: yea, the very Book of GOD itself would seem at the first so to be, & chiefly some parts of the Holy History of our Blessed Saviour's Humiliation, and his Sufferings; (but being generally considered, and every remarkable, worthy, and fertile part, set forenent the base or barren part, as his Resurrection forenent his Suffering; or his Exaltation forenent his Humiliation, than thou wilt both esteem the better, & reap the more profit of all. And yet if it had pleased the Spirit of GOD, out of all doubt, he could have indicted the same both in Method and Eloquence as fare beyond all other Books, as it surpasseth them in Matter, Wisdom, and Valour: and it is indeed so fare beyond them, that it hath surmounted the capacity of all the Philosophers that ever was, notwithstanding of all their Wisdom, Learning, and Rhetoric) Again, if thou wilt look to the forms observed in writing of Arts, behold but the Latin or Greek Grammar, and thou wilt oftentimes find one place more haske, and unpleasant than another; yea, it will seem altogether foolish, idle, and without sense, to any man that never learned such things: and that because, both the Matter and Language of Grammars, serve but for themselves, and not for other purposes which occur in common affairs, wherein he is best versed.  
And as for the Similitudes, they are very needful, not only for present understanding of the sense in time of reading; but in like manner thereafter, the memory of the Similitude, will oftentimes demonstrate a new consideration of the whole matter represented thereby, to men's remembrance again, who perhaps without the same would either not have conceived it at all, or suffered it to slip as soon out of their minds, as it entered in: and that which is worse, never remembered thereon again afterwards. And likewise the matter of this Treatise seemeth so base, that if there were not some better things mixed therewith than itself is, the most part would loathe it as much as they do Water without Malt.  
And to the fourth part I answer, That there is no strong City, but hath Walls to defend itself against the Assaults of all invading Enemies, and sometimes Suburbs without, partly for more Strength, and partly for want of room within: yea, & they sometimes little less than the City itself: I liken this Work to a City having all these Saveguardes, yet I will counsel no man to hinder his journey thorough the same, in beholding of the utter parts too much: but rather go forwardly with such speed as his means may afford: and while as he passeth, if he be any wise attentive, and inquisitive, he will be informed concerning the estate of all things within, before he see them, find all things according thereunto, when he seethe them, and confirmed thereof, af●er he hath come forth, and seen them.   

VIII.  
It is objected, That it is rather the Practice, than the Theoric of the Art, which serveth for Students: meaning, if they have some dexterity, any rudimental knowledge of Writing will suffice them, etc. I answer: Any Mason of course judgement, may undertake to build a roogh Stone Dyke, though he know not the right use of Geometrical Rules: but if he were employed to be Master builder of a stately Palace, whereof all the Conspicuous parts and Corner Stones, behoved to be engraven and indinted; and every outmost Stone artificially hewed; he would be constrained, if he had any time, either to seek for more knowledge, (though too late) or else yield and give place unto him that had it: even so, any Writer of sober skill, may take in hand to write Epistles, Counts, Scrolls, or such like; but if he presume to teach others, or yet be employed to write concerning great Matters, and rare Employments, he must needs either have sufficient skill, or else he will be forced (though to his skaith) to renounce the Employment in favours of some other, who hath that which he wanteth.   

IX.  
It is alleged, that in the Comparations or Descriptions of Letters, and in divers places henceforth to the end, it had been more requisite to have set down a particular presentation or demonstration of all the Writ Letters themselves there, than to have remitted them, by order of Printed Letters and Figures, to the Alphabet, as is done there at length: because, (to the Ignorant) it appeareth both to be more obscure to understand, and tedious to practise that way, than the other way: etc. I answer, the Remission is no worse than the affectate presentation, for two causes: First, if the written Letters themselves had aye been presented, and so often repeated, all those Rules would have seemed, to any of weak judgement, so much the more difficile, both to understand and put in practice, by how often the written Letters, appearing of divers kinds, would have been pointed forth in one Page, and in divers companies: wherefore, I have placed, and registrated them all in one place, once together, for the better consideration, and easier imitation thereof, by all imitators, but chiefly these.  
And secondly, if they had compeared themselves, and no Attourneyes, or Procuratours in their names, representing them, I know not whether the buying of so many several Types as they be in number, had been more sumptuous, or the travel to make them more needless. And if they will have them presented without reason, I may thus justly refuse them with reason: yet I will not discourage them altogether thereanent, but for removing of this their Objection, and pretended excuse, in some measure, I have presented such a number thereof in the Abridgement, as may serve for common Writing.   

X.  
It is alleged, and forewarned, both by Printers, and others having experience, that the tedious pains in the downe-setting of this Book, great charges in framing of Types thereunto, and often Printing the same, with neglecting all other Affairs in attending thereupon, will apparently exceed any benefit that ever will be obtained thereby; and therefore giving their advice, To lose the travel which is past, hold in the expenses to come, and let it desist altogether, or else it will not fail to overthrow the estate of the Agent, etc. I answer: It may be, these words be spoken in love, but I intend not to follow them, for two respects, the one Divine, and the other Humane: Divine, because the work tendeth to the Glory of GOD, (as all Virtuous works do, whether Spiritual or Temporal, and few of the last sort more than Writing, because it setteth forth his Glory:) Humane two ways, Civil and Natural: Civil, because it tendeth to the Commonwealth; for there be few of that nature more necessary; yea, and to mine own weal also, (as one of the smallest members thereof) whether I win or lose thereby: (I mean, by my present use) if it please GOD I win, it will tend both to my weal here, & hereafter; and if not, it will be hereafter, and not here; b● c●se it is my Talon, how mean soever it may be thought: and insomuch as I hide it not, but do put it to the right use, I shall escape the punishment pronounced in the Gospel for the contrary practice.  
And Natural, because I am taught and persuaded by very natural instinction, (though there were none other knowledge to be had) that it is much better to leave the use thereof after me in the World, amongst men that can use it, than to take it with me in a Propine or Entres-gift, to the crawling Worms in the Grave, which cannot make so much use thereof, as a Swine of a Pearl.  
Moreover, because our blessed Saviour himself sayeth, that no man having a Candle, (how small soever it be) should set it under a Bushel, but on a Candle stick, to the effect others may see therewith as well as himself. Doth not the fight of the Eyes serve as well for the Hands and Feet, and remnant Members of th● body, as for themselves? Then it followeth, that no Member of the Body of a Commonwealth, was made for itself only, but for the mutual aid and supply of all the rest also: and so I were unworthy of such a Candle, or yet of the sight of the Eyes, (which GOD hath so wisely made, to look more foorthwardes to others, than inwardly to myself) if I only show light therewith, looked, or had respect unto myself: that is, if I only served mine own private use, with that which it hath pleased GOD to lend for a common benefit unto others, the more that He hath made me the keeper, or rather the distributer thereof. Is there any Steward of a Family, but hath a twofold Charge imposed upon him, for which he must be comptable? Or is he not addebted unto two Creditors? first, unto his Master, who both hire●h him, and provideth the Furniture committed to his dispensation; and then unto his Master's whole Family, unto whose use, and for whose entertainment the same is allowed? Then, when his Master doth straitly exact and require an account of bis Stewardship, may he not expect & look for great punishment, if he be either found a waster of his Master's Goods, an hungerer of his Master's Family, or a feeder only of himself? So in this behalf I having such an Office, have the like double charge, and therefore am debtor unto two Creditors: first, unto GOD, of whom I hold the same, and who furnisheth me with gifts answerable, in some competent measure, for discharging a duty therein: and next, unto the World, which is GOD'S Family in general, and to mine own Country in special; May not I then look to be cited before his Tribunal, and not know what to answer, if I detain that to myself, which I received upon trust, and got commission to deliver unto others? And when I have done all that I can, and suppose I could do all that I ought, it were but my duty, and I still remain an unprofitable Servant.  
Therefore, let none maintain the opinion, that I writ this ●ooke upon presumption, or desire of praise, (except in so fare, as I will deliver it again unto GOD, who is the right owner thereof) but upon necessity: for sithence it hath pleased Him of His goodness, to grant me some hability so to do, (though not altogether in such measure as unto many others) that is, by planting me, like as it were a Tree in His Garden, by furnishing me with Root, Earth, Sappe, Leaves, Growth, Bigness, and Height, doth he not expect Fruits of me now, after so long watering, though he have many better Trees growing beside? (And all this, besides many better Showers, whereunto my purpose at this time doth not reach.) Surely it is more than time now that I bring forth some good Fruit, although it were never so little a tasting, till it please the Almighty to bring greater abundance to maturity; for otherways I might expect nothing else, but to be hewn down, and casten into the Fire: Since than I could not be but culpable of infidelity and negligence, and consequently capable of the punishment due thereunto, except Repentance should interveane. Read the 5 objection again, (if thou list) because this is somewhat relative to the assumption and answer thereof. Thus, in the practising of my Exoneration of the preceding Oneration to some, in my special function, I do good will to extend the same to all, in my general function.  
For the which respects, I will pass stoutly through all these impediments with this Book, till it be completely Printed, and refer the event thereof unto GOD, who (as he hath promised in his holy Word, and as my trust is in him) will make all things work together for the best unto them that fear Him, and to me amongst the rest.   

XI.  
One did propone this threefold exception, saying, this Book is 1, but a Common and easy Work; 2, not mine own Invention neither; and 3. that many have been, and yet are in this same Country, whose gift of learning surpasseth mine, that could have done the like, and better if they had pleased, etc. To the first part thereof I answer, it is not common as yet, because it is but beginning to grow common, and it may well be easy now to peruse, but I have experience that it was not easy to devise.  
To the second part I answer, it is indeed mine own Invention, with GOD'S assistance; and if any be incredulous, let them prove the contrary, or else give over the cause, and be silent; for of this Universal Challenge, they can pretend no ignorance, since it is neither any private Register wherein it is insert, nor yet will any boasteous Wind, or envious hand be able to take it off, where it is affixed, (as I hope) for many Ages to come.  
I confess, not long after it was begun, I accepted such advice as made for me, and rejected the rest, as all Writers do when they intent to set forth Works; for Solomon willeth that every man (how wise soever he be) take counsel when he interpryseth any matter of importance: because oftentimes one will both know and see a thing, that another will neither understand nor perceive, yea, though he have both as good judgement, & as sharp sight: but indeed never man read it over thereafter, till it was all Printed except the fore and latter parts, as is over probable by itself.  
Likewise, when it was presented to the Press, I desired some learned men to revise the same, who affirmed, that they had Skill in any Art or subject save only in this: and therefore would not take upon them to mend or change any thing therein, till after longer advisement, when the first essay should be published: but indeed sundry impugned divers things therein, and reasoned against the same, when time of remedy was passed; which reasoning, with some farther of others before, are these Objections, Exceptions, and Answers, thus here insert, enlarging the Volumme so fare beyond mine expectation.  
And I presuppone a good Work be devised, and found out by a number, yet it will take the name from the first proponer thereof, if he be also the most diligent and chief Agent in ●oing and accomplishing of the same: because without his industry, moyen, and procurement, it had perhaps never been enterprised, and fare less completed, howsoever his Skill, hability, and credit be not aye greatest: Who are the makers of Honey? Not the greatest eaters of Honey, but the wise and diligent Bees, howbeit they carefully search and collect the matter thereof of divers Herbs: for otherways could it ever come together, or become Honey of its own accord? (And yet I hope the Matter, juice, or Smell of few borrowed Herbs shall be felt, or perceived in this Composition.) In like manner, the Work men that are hired to build an House, are not so much said to be the Builder of the Work, as the owner thereof, who deviseth the Project, advanceth the Expenses, for materials thereunto, employeth them in the business, and payeth them their Wages.  
And to the thirde part of the Exception I answer: but I must subdivide it in two, because I consider it in two Ranks: Touching the first, If it had pleased any, (let be many) of this Country, (or any other, so fare as I have yet read, or heard of) to have prevented me, in manifesting either of the like, or better, upon this Subject and Character completelie, at any time this 5000. Years, and the same in rerum naturâ, or yet if I knew of another, either as good or better, either in readiness, or making ready to be manifested; it might ppeare to be some motive to cause me desist, and allege the same for an excuse. But surely I would not, (so fare as I might) because I am bound as said is, and my ●and is as strictly made as any others that have written, or might write, notwithstanding my gifts be fare meaner: for the LORD, who is only wise, disponeth these things, (as He doth all others) most wisely to every man according to His good pleasure, and will crave no farther account of any man, than He giveth him to distribute, and be countable of.  
And as concerning the other part of the Subdivision, I honour them for their gifts of Learning, and so fare as I am able, I praise GOD for mine own: I will compare with no man, but yield unto all men, (except in so fare as I will study to defend the sober gifts which I have, for His cause unto whom they justly belong, that they never be dung down with boast of tomb words, but rather with actions, grounded upon right Knowledge and Reason: for in so doing. I have already won a costly Pen, with vanguard and Commendation of other things beside.)  
There is yet one Comfort, which those of greater gifts want, that I have: their Compt will be great, and mine small; and if they will not make others participant of what they have received, as much for that use, as for their own, their Compt will be yet so much the greater than mine, by how much less they benefit others therewith: for what availeth it, if a man could do never so well, if he do it not?   

XII.  
Lastlie, it is objected, that this Character of writ wherein I insist particularly, doth not agree in all things with the English and Irish Secretary, which is somewhat righter than the Scottish, whereunto I most often adhere, etc. I answer, that I could not omit mine own Country form of Writ, both because it is my duty to give it the own place, and it is indeed not very imperfect; neither yet to extol the English & Irish form of Character (which is now most used) too much, and that by applying the whole drift of my instructions thereunto, since it is not altogether perfect; but I join them so together, that nevertheless they may be distinguished: and where there be any differences, I both demonstrate them, and the way how they may be eschewed: and so do study by all means, and specially by removing, and plucking up of all differences by the roots, to bring them unto an absolute conformity; because now all these three Kingdoms do so concord in one, (GOD be praised) that they have but one Head, one Law, one Language, and one form of Character.  
The end of the Objections.    

ADMONITIONS, TO ALL PROFESSORS OF THE Art of Fair Writing.  
LEt the total sum of all thy Writing, tend to the glory of GOD, the weal of thy Country, and to thine own profit, credit, and pleasure.  
II. Beware to write any thing which may either offend GOD or Man, directly or indirectly, or yet peril thy Soul, body, Goods, or good name; though Satan or his adherentes would not only promise to be thy warrant, but offer thee a Kingdom for thy reward.  
III. Be not rash even in Writing of the spediest form of writ, but let aye mature deliberation of the matter precede, and then the action of Writing proceed; as also in weighty Matters, both form and reform.  
iv Although thou be taught by this preceding Art how to be an expert and Fair Writer, yet notwithstanding be more careful to let thy Skill appear in the brevity and sufficiency of the Matter, than altogether to show thy Skill in the painting, or needless curiosity of the Letter.  
V If thou who livest by Writing▪ would GOD should bless thy Calling, be neither covetous to extort the Rich who have much, nor slothful to help the Poor who have little; but consider rightly thine own travels, their power, and do something gratis; because thou hast both thy life and thy gifts, to do good unto others, as well as unto thyself.  
VI Whosoever thou be that writest, let never the Subject of thy Writing be profaine; for W●iting is one of GOD'S gifts, and thou wilt prove both ingrate, and guilty, if thou who art His reasonable creature, employ his own gift to offend Himself; and specially if thou be an Instructor of the Youth: because then under thine hands they are betwixt losing and winning; for commonly such education, such conversation, according to that old saying, Quo semel est imbuta recens etc. But as thou givest them good Exemples both of Matter and Letter, so likewise give the best Exemples of all by thy wis● Admonitions, Indulgence, Temperancie, and good Behaviour; for according to the common Proverb, An ounce of Wisdom, is worth a pound of Learning: and it is to be pitied and lamented, that the greatest part of Youth are apt and prone enough naturally, though they have neither farther occasion nor provocation, not only to learn the Custom of swearing, drinking, mispending, and all sorts of riotous abuse, which alace, do abound too much in the aged, without any civil punishment or remorse; but likewise to resemble and commit any absurdity or enormity, either done or tolerated by their Instructor, and boldly in his absence to make him the Author thereof; whose bare report will have more credit of many of their Parents, than his sol●mne oath of verity.  
VII. If thou be appointed to instruct others in the Knowledge and Practice of Fair Writing, fail not to attend precisely upon thy Calling, and the place thereof, so long as GOD calleth thee unto no other Calling, nor better place: but rather ere thou either tie thyself unto any place, (except where thou hast sufficient employment, and thankful Clients) he afraid of ensuing necessity; or yet engage thyself in churlish men's reverence too fare, seek, and change for once, to a place meeter for thee in time, though it were meaner of itself: for it is better to be bare at liberty, than teathered in poverty. Indeed a Grammarian may very well settle himself, because many years will expire before any Class orderly pass through the Grammar: but it is otherways with thee, thy first years will commonly be thy best years, (in computation) and that not only because Writing is soon learned, if it be rightly taught, but likewise because the most part, as well of old as young, are so inconstant, and inclined to novelties, and new faces, that though a man's gift were never so great, they will readily loathe of him, and all his doings, without any just cause; and yet when all is done, lay the fault only on him, and style him with the Title of Inconstancy. Moreover, if thou be moved, through men's unthankfulness, to require satisfaction of what is due unto thee, as the Labourer is worthy of his Hire, many of them will pay thee with a bare alleadgeance, in saying, that their Children have not so much profited by thy travels as they expected: thou mayst the better trust me here anent, since I have experience of such things myself, howbeit indeed I have taught many of the greatest in this Land, who have proved fare other ways, and thought it well bestowed.  
VIII. As thou who teachest the Youth, (wouldst have either favour or recompense of GOD or Man, conceal nothing which is profitable for them to know, nor yet the manner of practising: but demonstrate every thing in the own time and place, as Condition, Opportunity, and Necessity requireth Performance: for Children esteem their Master's Instruction as a Law, and if it be according to their estimation, his practice, with their obedience, aught to fulfil the same. Furthermore, leave nothing undone, within the bounds of thy Calling, which lieth in thy power to do: and what lacketh, refer the supplement thereof unto the Almighty, together with the success of all thy doings: so thou needest not fear the Calumnies, nor detractions of any: for such duty herein, as thou either studiest, or wishest to perform, thou wilt be sure to receive the like degree of reward from GOD, (either here or hereafter, if not both) howbeit man's good word, and fare more his good deed, be uncertain.  
IX. When thou art required to subscribe as witness in any matter, be not rash, but first read, and consider the sufficiency thereof: secondly, see both the parties subscribe, at the least the party unto whom thou art called to give testimony, and then subscribe thou: and thirdly, howbeit the matter belongeth not unto thee, yet in so much as thou art a witness to the equity thereof, fail not immediately after thou hast taken thy leave, to write some brief memorial of the same in thy forenamed little Book, (which always thou oughtest to carry) that thou afterwards revising such an article insert therein, thou mayest the more boldly and constantly abide thereat, in affirming of the truth, if it shall happen thee to be cited, and required to depone there anent before a judge.  
X. Since the All-seeing Eye of GOD seethe all things, in all places, at all times, writ every thing, therefore, as well privately as publicly, in such sort, as thou neither needest to be ashamed to read, nor afraid to hear read in the days of trial: as also, be loath to write any thing in absence, but that which thou wouldst not stand in awe to utter by tongue in presence.  
XI. Let never any thing of importance which thou writest, go forth of thy custody, till thou also read it, because no man is so circumspect, but he may in some points neglect himself: for if it either have or want but the negative word not, where it ought not, it will be enough to turn all that Sentence (wherein it is either omitted, or expressed) up side down, and so put thee in danger of trouble, shame, and Skaithe, thorough that thy carelessness, and negligence.  
XII. And last of all, if it please GOD to make thee so fair a Writer, that thou surpass or surmatch others, I beseech thee neither vaunt nor brag of thine own Writ, and fare less disdain any other men's Writ, whether it be evil or good, except thou be chosen as judge thereunto, than thou mayest indeed give thine opinion freely, without either feade or favour: and although thine own Writ merit Commendation, yet take none to thyself, but persevere in well-doing, till others give thee the same, and when thou hast gotten it, accept not thereof as a thing belonging unto thyself, but unto GOD, whose Instrument and Steward thou art in that Respect: for thou neither haste, nor canst have any thing, but that which thou receivest, neither yet when thou hast received this amongst the rest, must thou keep it unto thyself, but let the whole praise of the gift redound to the giver thereof: for as standing water, which hath no passage to the great Ocean, soon putrefieth, and as men casten into the bottom of the salt Sea, and Fishes on the face of the dry Land soon die, so doth all praise due to the Creator, which is kept, or stopped by any creature and why? it is no wonder indeed, because it is out of its own right Element.   


O LORD, since Thou, hast thought it requisite,  
This to complete, conjoin Thy Blessing now,  
And it avow, to come of Thy Spirit,  
Being so meet, a Pattern to follow.  
To Thee, O LORD,  
For the which, and all Thy Mercies great,  
With one accord,  
Be rendered Praise of every estate.   
FINIS   

THE PRINTER TO THE READER, AND BVYER of this Book.  
IT may be (Gentle Reader) that you think the Price of this Book too much for so little a Volume; yet if you will consider the Causes wherefore it must be so, you will allow thereof the better, which be four: First, because he who selleth it, intendeth, God willing, to be ready and present, or one in his name, whensoever it shall please you to inquire for the same: for it is better to sell in such sort, as he who selleth may live, and keep the Town, nor at so low a rate, as he must leave the same, and disappoint you, when you ask for such a one as is not to be found. secondly, if you read this Book orderly, and diligently, from the beginning, unto this place, I hope you will not find it dear neither, but within the value. thirdly, though it were otherwise, it may not be sold any cheaper at this first Impression: because there is but a few Printed, for an essay, upon an haste, and by guess, as it were; partly since it is the Authors first Travels, and partly in respect of the tedious writing of so many Characters, and much Writ, upon each Book, after the Imprinting of the matter thereof. And fourth, because the Author maintaineth two or three daily to fill up, and write in, all the foresaid Exemplare Letters and Words, in every Extract, which it no small travel and charges, in comparison of tbose Books which have nothing in them, but such as is set down, and printed all at ones, with one travel. But indeed within few years, God willing, when this Impression is sold, and new Types bought, to supply the travels now made with the Pen, and the Book reform, and Printed the second● time, than it may perhaps he sold at a fare lower rate, though much better of itself: to the which time, I entreat you to have patience, and be content with it as it is, and not only dispense with any apparent Dearth thereof now, but also excuse any fault you find either in the Author in downe-setting, and correcting; or in Me, in the Imprinting: and th●n I hope we shall please you better both in Travels and Price. Thus in the mean time, and for ever, I wish you to farewell.   

Imprinted at Sanct-andrewes', By Edward Raban, Printer to the University there: And are to be sold in EDINBURGH, by john Burdon, at his Shop, beside the Throne, on the South side of the Street, For six Shillings Sterling the piece.