THE Excellent Woman. A SERMON Preached at the Funeral of Mrs. Elizabeth Scott, Relict to Humphrey Scott of Conghurst in Kent, Esq; And daughter unto Sir Matthew Howland Knight, late of Giles in the Fields; On the 16. of Decemb. 1658. By Tho. Case, M. A. sometimes Student of Ch. Ch. Oxon. Now Rector of St. Giles in the Fields.  Heb. 13.7, 8. 
Whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation, Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.  
London, printed for Robert Gibs in Chancery-lane at the sign of the Golden Ball, near Sergeants Inn. 1659.   

To the truly Honourable, and much honoured, The Lady Frances Howland, Relict to the worthy Sir Matthew Howland late of Giles in the Fields.  
Madam,  
I Shall not need to fear the reviving of your sorrows by this late address; I find them still fresh upon your spirit; and I dare not accuse you for it: I had almost said, you cannot be guilty of an excess in your mourning over the loss of such a child; A child not only of the severest obedience, but of the sweetest and tenderest respect to your spiritual and eternal good, that most Mothers ever had the happiness to bring forth.  
Surely it was her pious care to pay in grace, the debt which he owed you by nature: and to compensate her natural being received from you, with your spiritual.  
Your Ladyship hath often acknowledged to myself, and others what a soul-help she was to you, ever since God was pleased to call her by his grace, and to reveal his son in her. Surely as seldom have children lost a better mother; so seldom did mother lose a better child. And as such a loss can hardly be overwept, so I am afraid our times are little guilty of such a sin. Our sin is rather that we bury our sorrows together in the same grave with our godly, praying, soul- friends, as if we were no losers by their death; truly would Christians put on their mourning affections, but as long as they wear their mourning garments, for their godly dead, there were less cause of mourning.  
It is true, their voice to us is that of our Lord, Weep not for me; there is no cause (as to themselves) to sorrow even as others that have no hope; Yea, but weep for yourselves, and for your children; not for their gains, but for your loss, loss of Counsel, loss of their quickening edifying Converse; their prayers, comforts, loss of their holy jealousy and watchfulness over us, their tender compassions to our souls. Alas, a great part of Christians understand not their loss, and the most do not lay it to heart; and so though they quit the sense, yet they aggravate their misery; while they add sin to their affliction; even the sin of insensibleness: 
Isa. 26.11.  Lord when thine hand is lifted up they will not see. 
Jer. 5.3.  Thou hast smitten them, but they have not grieved.  
I am glad therefore Madam on your behalf to find that these tears are not yet dried up; blessed are those mourners that prevent not the Consolations of the holy Ghost; but do patiently wait till God himself come to wipe off the tears from their eyes; of which this will be a comfortable pledge, if by the sadness of the countenance the heart be made better. 
Eccl. 7.3.  Which that it may be your Ladyship's portion, as mine own, shall be the earnest prayer of  
Madam, Your Ladyships deeply obliged, and most faithful servant in the Gospel. The Case.   

To the Honourable Sir Howland Roberts of Glassenbury in the County of Kent Baronet.  
Noble Sir,  
IT is no small privilege to be born of godly parents; The blessings of the Covenant run most kindly in the channel of the Covenant; there is more to be presumed of such children than others; not only as they are under the blessing of their parents prayers, (Bathsheba called Solomon the son of her Vows; and Monica St. Augustine the child of her prayers and tears;) but also as they themselves have a greater holdfast upon God, by virtue of his holy Covenant; Lord, I am thy servant, 
Ps. 116.16.  and the son of thy handmaid, was david's plea.  
What a right you may claim to God's family by your mother, the just character here delivered of her, will sufficiently evidence. Her example, Counsels, prayers, are a better portion than your Father's inheritance: She traveled the second time with your spiritual birth, and was in pain till she could see Christ form in you, and the rest of the fruit of her loins; and that all her children by nature might be the adopted sons and daughters of God by grace; that you might be good rather than great, serviceable rather then honourable, that she might go out of the world with that joy of our Lord, My seed shall serve him, 
Ps. 22.30.  it shall be counted to the Lord for a generation, this was the travel of her soul. Solomon recounteth the Prophecy, 
Prov. 31.1  which his Mother taught him; and surely as by the example of your pious mother, so by the gracious counsels and instructions which from the very cradle, she was perpetually instilling into your mind, she being dead, yet speaketh; the module whereof is indelibly engraven upon your heart.  
The greatness of your loss is not easy to be told; and it is not yours only but the whole Churches: she was a Christian indeed in all the capacities which she sustained, and filled them all with singular wisdom and fidelity. The providence of God in taking her away in the fullness of her strength and activity for Jesus Christ; is to me very stupendious, and compared with the premature death of divers others of the Lords choice ones, seemeth to intimate some approaching judgement; The righteous perisheth and man layeth it to heart, 
Isa. 57.1.  and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from THE EVIL TO COME. When the corn is reaped and gathered into the barn, the bruit  are turned into the field: Such a general, sudden, and (to us) untimely death of the godly, calleth upon survivours to sit down, and consider, how they may either prevent, or prepare for approaching evils; at least how they may fill up the vacant rooms of those worthies that are gone to rest, with a greater activity of grace, and a more diffusive service.  
As for yourself (Honoured Sir) the remaining hopes and honour of your Father's house; go on to do worthily for God; and let the world know that your Mother's Blessing is not yet worn out of your family; and that power of Religion which she fought to establish there, did not expire with her. Which as it is the hope, so it shall be the prayer of him, who is,  
Sir, Yours in all Christian Observance, Tho. Case   

To the Reader.  
Reader,  
I Do easily foresee the large commendation which I have given to that truly Honourable person, whose memory is continued in these papers, may incur censure from strangers: or else those, who though not altogether strangers, were not so intimately acquainted with her worth and excellency; (painted pieces look best at a distance, but real and living are not discovered but b● nearer approaches. An● therefore a word to avoi● prejudice will not be unnecessary.  
I must confess it is ver● sad to observe how unable many Professors are to bea● the just commendation 〈◊〉 those who do excel in ver●●tue: I am not willing 〈◊〉 search into the reasons lest I be thought to burde● others with censure, while▪ I seek to cast it off from m● self, I will only say th●● much, It is as unworthy, Christians to envy the glory o● ●hem that are illustrious, as ●t would be to detract from ●hem: Especially when their eminency is reported, not for the discouragement ●nd reproach of them that are in a lower sphere, but for their instruction, and to provoke to imitation. It ●hould rather cheer us to the ●eart to see the beams of ●he Lords grace breaking ●ut with so much glory to ●he Giver, and that God ●s glorified by others, better than ourselves; and that while we are at the bottom of the hill, others get ●earer to the top & height of Christian perfection.  
My Apology is this; i● in this report I have exceeded the bounds of trut● and modesty, bear witness to the excess; but if I hav● spoken the truth, why am 〈◊〉 smitten?  
As for the truth of wha● I have spoken, let the annexed Testimonies of so many Reverend and godly Divines, with other authentic witnesses bear record: as also those many others that might be produced both in City and Country, who had the happiness to be privy and conscious to her walk and course I may truly say she had a good report of all men, 
3 Joh. 12.  and of the truth itself. Now whether in this Character given of this worthy Christian, I have been acted by a spirit of flattery, or a desire to do good; Yea, whither so much to honour the dead, as to provoke the living to an holy emulation of like strictness, and heavenly Conversation, the Searcher of hearts knoweth, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness, 
1 Cor. 4.5.  and make manifest the Counsels of the hearts; and then shall every man have the praise of God.  
Reader, how much more honour and comfort will it be in that day to be a follower of what thou readest then a Judge, I leave to thine own conscience to determine: The Lord give thee to profit by this, and other the instances of his grace, which is the prayer of him, who is  
Thine in the service of the Gospel. Tho. Case.   
PROVERBS 31.29. 
Many Daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.  
THe nine first Verses of this Chapter contain a notable Model of Instructions which Solomon's Mother taught him; calculated most properly for his use and direction as he was a King.  
It is called a Prophecy, under which notion Counsel and Instruction is sometimes signified (not in the Old-Testament only, but also in the New) the Original occasion whereof was, because the Office of the Prophets was to teach and instruct the people, as well as to foretell and reveal things to come.  
This fatter part of the Chapter from the tenth verse to the end, containe● a most elegant description of an excellent woman.  
To whom this Character is to be ascribed, admits o● varions thoughts amongst Interpreters.  
The Papist● attribute i● to the Virgin Mary?  
Some of the ancient Fathers to the Church, the Spouse of Christ.  
Rabbi Solomon applieth it to the Old Testament.  
And (after him) Lyra to the whole Scripture.  
But all these are not only wide, but wild conjectures.  
Some with more probability, ascribe it to B●thsheba, Solomon's Mother; as penned and composed by Solomon as an Encomium or Panegyric of her Excellencies; which he ded●cates unto her by way of a gratulatory acknowledgement of her singular piety in these Motherly instructions, recounted in the former part of the Chapter.  
But lastly, others conceive, that the whole description to be but the Character of an excellent woman at large, and not particularly applied to any single person, but as it were a general Draught or Portraiture by which we may know an excellent woman, a Wife indeed, when we see her.  
And it is conceived that this description is a continued part of this Prophecy which Bathsheba dedicated unto Solomon, and was specially intended to be his Rule and Standard in the choice of a Wife; the special study and care of a pious Mother, as we see in Rebecca towards Jacob, Gen. 29.46. And to this conjecture I do rather incline.  
In this description, the eighthteenth precedent verses contain the particular virtues and praises of this excellent Woman, my Text is the summa totalis, the Compendium and Coronis of the whole Character, the Crown wherewith she is Crowned (as it were) in the face of Heaven and Earth, God and Angels and Men; Many Daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.  
Have done virtuously,] the Original Word signifieth properly to bring forth children, 
Chai●l from Chul dolore, eviti.  with sorrow and hard labour: hence also it sometimes signifieth virtue, sometimes riches: because neither is ordinarily attained and prosecuted without much industry and activity; 
Gnashu Chaijl fecerunivirtutem.  the phrase here used (to the letter) is to be translated have done virtue; or performed worthy things; they have acted strenuously which seems to approve our translation, as that which is most proper. They have done virtuously.  
Many Daughters] Daughter's, here is taken more Hebraico for a Woman; as men are called Sons, so women are called Daughters, Cant 3.5.  
But how doth this p urality of good Women (many Daughters have done virtuously) agree with that complaint of Solomon, 
Eccles. 7.28.  one man amongst a thousand have I found, but a Woman amongst all these have I not found?  
Some salve the difficulty thus; Solomon speaks in reference to his ●●n experience; He had not found one good Woman indeed amongst a thousand, (referring to his former sensual converse with women;) He had a thousand Wives and Concubines, all the Daughters of strange profane Nations: and therefore it was no wonder he could not find one good amongst them all, they all proved snares to him to turn away his heart from the Lord unto Idols. 
1 Kin. 11.3.   
But these words are Bathshebas words in reference to her own experience, who by conversing with a better so●t of Women than her Son did; found not only one, but many good ones of that sex, many Daughters have done virtuously.  
I but even she makes a very great difficulty also of finding one; 
Object.  Verse 10. Who can find a virtuous woman, for her price is far above Rubies: the question seems to imply a good woman to be a rare jewel, and hardly to be found.  
But the Answer (to both these Objections) is, 
Answ.  that neither the meaning of Solomon nor his Mother is to condemn one sex more than the other, But both are to be understood comparatively, (and alas it holds too true in both Sexes) the number of the truly good is but very small and inconfiderable, compared with the vile & vicious, whether of men or women. The bad are like pebble stones upon the Sea shore, you cannot stir a foot but ye stumble upon them, but the good are like precious stones, Rubies, and Diamonds of great value, and rarely to be found; the Merchant that will find them must travel far for them: To which sad truth the Apostle beareth witness, 1 Cor. 1.26. Not many wise, nor many mighty, not many noble, etc. Blessed be God he doth not say no any wise, not any mighty, some there be which though but a little flock, compared w●th the Droves and Herds which the Devil carrieth headlong into the Sea of perdition; yet considered in themselves they are not a contempt ible number; Revel. 7. from the 4th verse to the 8 9, 10●h.  
But then again, amongst these many, there is here and there a rare one to be found, a pearl of great price, many good; and some one excellent a paragon, a None-such in he● place and age, To whom it may be said, Thou excelles● them all.  
The Words thus opened and cleared, will affords u● these Observations.  
1. Obser. All the Members of the Crurch are not of the same preciousness and influence: there be several sizes of Christians.  
2. God takes notice of the least grace and goodness that is in any: grace in what degree soever it is, (if it betrue) God will not overlook it.  
3. The great honour and praise of a Christian, is to be excellent in their generations: Or, Excellency in grace and goodness, is that which is of great price in the sight of God: God doth set a special note of approbation upon it, thou excellest them all.  
All the Members of the Church are not of the same size in grace. 
Doct. 1.   
In this firmament of the Church, it is as in the Firmament of the ●eavens; one Star differeth from another in glory; 
1 Cor. 15.41.  all Stars are not of the same light and influence; some there be of the first, some of the second magnitude; others that are of a common dimension and influence: so is the resurrection of the dead; 
Ver. 42.  this here▪ in grace, and that hereafter in glory.  
In the Household of Faith all the Members be not o● the same Age and Office.  
There be some Babe● in Christ, Babes i● Knowledge, and Babe● in grace, weak an● tender Christians, tha● have little more the● the very being of spiritual life in them, 
1 Joh. 2.12, 13, 14.  only enough to denominate them Saints an● Children of God.  
Some there be youn● men; strong active Christians, strong to overcome the Devil in all his temptations, and active in their generations, able to do much work for Jesus Christ and the Gospel.  
And then there be Fathers in the Church, Christians of much experience in the mystery of the Kingdom of God: Christians of great acquaintance with God, and communion with God who can say with the Apostle, 
1 Joh. 1.3  Truly our Communion is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.  
Amongst the Worthies of D●vid, all did not attain the sa●e fame and enown with the fi●st three etc.  
Well; Let not the weak Christian envy the strong, 
Use.  nor the strong despise the weak; but see God and admire God in the several gifts and graces of his Spirit. So it must be in the Church of God.  
But secondly Observe; 
Doct. 2.  God takes notice of the least good that is in any: Grace in what ever degree (if it be true) is not rejected by Jesus Christ. The bruised Reed he will not break, and the smonking Flax he will not quench; what is weaker than a bruised reed; behold while it was whole, it was fit for little service; but when it is bruised it is good for nothing: you cannot make a pin of it to hang a vessel on: what is more useless than smoking flax; singed and scorched with the fire, and ready to break out into a flame; ye cannot make a thread of it fit for any work. Yet that grace which in the sense and feeling of a Christian, a Christian that is poor in spirit, is of no more consideration than such smoking flax, and such a bruised reed; behold Jesus Christ will be so fare from quenching of the one, and breaking the other, that he will bring it forth into victory; weak grace shall at length get the conquest of strong corruption;  
It is very observable in the seven Churches of Asia, Rev. 2. and 3. Cha●t. there's not any thing that was good in any of them, but Jesus Christ takes special notice of it.  
I know thy labour and thy patience; 
Rev. chap. 2.2, 3.  and thou canst not bear with them which are evil, etc.  
The Church of Smy●na; 
verse 9  I know thy works and tribulation, and poverty, but thou art rich.  
Pergamus, 
verse 1●.  Thou hold'st fast my Name, and hast not denied my Faith, though thou dwellest where Satan hath his seat.  
Thyatyra, 
verse 19  Thy works and charity, and service, and faith, and patience, and (again) thy works, I and thy last to be more than the first.  
Sardis, hath a few Names, and Philadelphia a little strength, 
Chap. 3.4. verse 8.  etc.  
There was not the least good in any of the Churches, though intermixed with much ●in, and corruption, but it is taken notice of, and recorded in the Register of God's remembrance, & is mentioned to their honour & praise; only there was proud conceited Laodicea that had nothing but an high oopinion of herself, 
ver. 16.  and she stands with a brand upon her forehead, instead of a Crown upon her head; Lukewarm.  
In wicked Jeroboams family, there was but one poor child, that had some good in him, and that but very little, yet that is taken notice of, and an asterism set upon it; In him was found some good thing toward the Lord God of Israel. Therefore, 
1 Kin. 14.13.  etc.  
Here the Daughters that had done virtuously are upon Record, though they came not up to the character of t● excellent woman,  
As all that helped to repair the wall of Jerusale● had not a like share in t● work, yet all their nam● are upon the file, their labo●● of love is registered and reported to succeeding genrations.  
The Ground or Reason's this Observation is this, 
Ground.  s● Because true grace though never so small, is the 
a Phil. 2.13.  wo●● of God; yea, the 
b Eph. 4.24.  Image, God; a 
c 2 Pet. 1.4.  beam of the Divi● Nature: and God will n● despise the work of his o●● hands: God will own eve● one that is called by his Na●● why? for I have created hi● for my glory, I have form● him, yea I have made him.  
God knows how to distinguish 
Isa 43.7.  between the Gold and the dross; between a want of grace, and a want in grace: between sincerity and corruption in his people; between a child and a bastard: And he will not throw the heap of corn into the fire, because there is much chaff in it; he will not reprobate the gold because there is dross mixed with it: 
Isa. 57.17, 18.  nor disinherit the child because a weak child: froward Ephraim, because a child, God will heal him, and lead him, and restore comforts to him, and to his mourners.  

Use.  
It may serve,  
1. To encourage weak Christians, say not in thy heart I have no grace, because thou findest much corruption God doth not say so. T●● heavenly Father can discov●● a spark of grace in a sea 〈◊〉 corruption, Christian's mu●● learn to distinguish between the having of corruption and the allowing of corruption, between a little grac● and being contented with 〈◊〉 little grace.  
2. It may serve to Caution us against despising of o● weaker brethren. He is n●● of the spirit and disposition of our heavely Father, th● can despise one of Chris● little ones, a little faith, an● a little strength; some goo● thing towards the Lord, Go● takes notice of, and Go● owns; so should we; if 〈◊〉 will be the Children of ou● heavenly Father. Him that 〈◊〉 week in faith receive, only ●ot to doubtful disputations; 
So is the Rule, Ro. 14.1.  ●e should own the weakest christians, to encourage and ●elp their graces, but not 〈◊〉 perplex them with unpro●able disputes.  
3. It may serve as an Encouragement to all to be ●od; to labour to get grace, ●ho would not serve such a ●od, as will own the least ●ood that is in his children? ●●at knows how to pardon ●reat sins, and to accept of 〈◊〉 little grace where there is ●●cerity? Bring into God ●hat thou hast, thy mite ●hall be accepted, if it be all ●hou haste. 
Fare litabo persius  A pair of Turtle ●●ves will be accepted on ●ods Altar, as well as costner Sacrifices; where the sa●rificers ability will extend no higher. But cursed 〈◊〉 the deceiver which hath in h● Flock a Male, 
Mal. 1.14.  and sacrifice● to the Lord a co rupt thin● A man is accepted with Go● according to what he hath. 
2 Cor. 8.12.  〈◊〉 according to what he hath no● Only let not this make y●● idle, to be content with a litt●● grace, because God will acce●● a little: argueth no grace 〈◊〉 all: know thus much I beseech you, that though Go● will own the weak Christia● yet he delights in the excellent; which brings me upo● the third and main Doctri●● which I intent to handle.  
The great honour a d'prai●● of a Christian i● to be excellent in goodness and grace. 
Doct. 3.   
Excellent Saints are Go● delight.  
Take a few Demonstrat●ons.  
1. The word of Command; 
Dem. 1.  ●ll the Precepts and Exhorta●●ons of Scripture run upon ●hat strain, walk before me, 
Gen. 17.1.  ●nd be thou perfect said God ●o Ab aham: Abraham must ●ot take up with any thing ●hort of perfection. And ●hat you may not think that ●as a special instance which ●ll are not bound to follow, ●●e Evangelical Rule which concerns all Christians, speaks in the very same Lang●age, Be ye perfect, 
Mat. 5. ult.  ye with ●●s addition of highest emidency, as your heavenly Father is perfect. 
1 Pet. 1.15  As he that hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation, for it is written, be ye ho●y, for I the Lord your God am holy.  
Observe, Christians must make God the pattern o● their holiness, and the Motive of their holiness; Holy as he is holy, there's our pattern; holy because he is holy, there's our motive; They must content themselves with no measure or degree of holiness, but forgetting the things that are behind, press still after further degrees of conformity unto God. These be not only Evangelicall Counsels (as the Papists sottishly teach, that so upon this foundation they may build their Superstructure of merit and works of supererrogation) but they be Evangelical precepts and commands, enjoined upon the great prerogative of divine filiation; and indeed flowing from it; 
Matth. 5.45.  that you may be the children of your heavenly Father: there is no boasting of divine Sonship, without conformity unto the divine nature: not that this conformity is the cause of our Sonship, but the evidence, 
Tunc dicitur saepe aliquid esse quum esse intelligitur, Beza in loc.  that you may be, i. e. that you may be known to be the children of your Father which is in Heaven: According to this tenor, run all the commands of the Gospel, perfect holiness in the fear of God: 
2 Cor. 7.1  proving what that good and acceptable and derfect will of God is. Be perfect, 
Ro. 12.1, 2  
2 Cor. 13.11. Phil. 1.10, 11.  be of good comfort, sincere without offence, filled with the fruits of righteousness. Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest: 
chap. 4.8.  whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, lovely, of good report; if any virtue, if any praise, think on these things.  
My Brethren, the purity of Scripture Rule, and the perfection of Scripture Rewards are the two impregnable Arguments and Demonstrations of the Divinity of the Scripture, and the truth of Christian Religion against all other Religions in the world. Behold, the Rule is an Excellent Rule which God hath chalked out to his Saints to walk by: calling for nothing short of perfection, in their aims and utmost contention! How perfect is the Law of God 
Psal. 19.7. 2. Dem.   
2. Demonstration, such God commends, and of such only God boasts in Scripture, hast thou not considered my servant Job, 
Job 1.8.  said God to Satan, there is none like him upon the face of the Earth, a perfect and an upright man! etc. I know Abraham, etc. Abraham my friend: 
Gen. 18.19. 1 Sam. 13.14. 2 Cor. 10.18.  And David, a man after mine own heart. Not he that man commendeth, but he that God commendeth is approved.  
Thirdly, 
3. Dem.  these Excellent ones God sets forth as Standards and Exemplars for others imitation: Be ye followers of me as I am of Christ; 
1 Cor. 11. ●  they be Saint Paul's words, but Gods command; whose Amanuensis and Secretary the Apostle was; and it is the very same which is enjoined unto all the followers of the Lamb, that they should be followers of the Excellent ones, 
Heb. 6.12  who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Not only be ye followers of God as dear Children, 
Eph. 5.1.  But, Be ye followers of th●m that excel in virtue, 
Heb. 13.7  whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation, Jesus Christ, etc. Yet this must be still with the Apostles limitation; as they are of Christ, we must not follow the Saints further than as they follow Christ.  
Fourthly and lastly, For the most excellent Saints is reserved the most excellent glory. 
4. Dem.  According to the degree of grace here, shall be the degree of glory hereafter: As one Star differeth from another in glory, 
1 Cor. 15.41.42.  so also is the resurrection of the dead.  
For the further enlargement and clearing of this Doctrine I shall briefly satisfy one Query, and so pass over to the Uses of the Point. It is this.  
Quest. What is it to be excellent? or, wherein doth the excellency of a Saint consist?  

Wherein consists the excellency of a Christian.  Answ. Excellency consists in these three qualifications.  

1. To be universally good.  
2. To be eminently good.  
3. To be perseveringly good.   

1. Universally heart-good, and life-good.  1. To be universally good: this is excellent indeed, when a Christian is good all over: good quite through: good within, and good without. When a man or woman is a good First Table Christian: and a good Second Table Christian, holy towards God, righteous, meek, merciful ●oward man.  
They be excellent ones, that are good in both their callings: good in their general callings as Christians, good in their particular callings as men: good on the Sabbath, and good all the week long. Good as Magistrates, good as Ministers, good in whatsoever Trade or Profession God hath fixed them in amongst men.  
Good in all their Relations, good as Husbands, good as Wives: good as Parents, good as Children, good as Masters, good as Servants, good as Kindred, good as Neighbours. Time will not permit exemplification of these particulars.  
So likewise they be excellent who are good every where: good at home, and good abroad, good in company, and good alone: good in good company, and good in bad: good with Saints, and good with sinners: conversing with them, as a Physician among the sick, not as a companion with them that are well: 
Having no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but reproving them rather, Ep. 5.11.  good in the Family, and good in the Closet.  
He or she is excellent that is good in every state, and in every temper: good when rich, and good when poor, good when sick, and good when well, good in prison, and good at liberty, good when sad, and good when merry, good in holy duties, and good in civil Recreations.  
Behold, this is to be excellent; That is an excellent Christian indeed that walks uniformly; every where, and in every thing like himself: 
●omo qua●atus.  good when men see him, and good when none but God sees him; Many of these qualifications we find in this description and character, (here) of a good woman; she is a good Wife, a good Mother, a good Widow: and that is her excellency, which we shall have occasion to touch hereafter.  
This was the excellency of Zechariah and Elizabeth, 
Luke 1.6.  they were both righteoas before God, walking in all the Commandments and Statutes of the Lord blameless, i. e. in all the duties of the Moral and Ceremonial Law.  

2. In eminency.  Secondly, The excellency of a Christian consists in being eminently good, exemplarily good: To be followers of the Saints, as 1 Thes. 1.6. this is good: But to be Ensamples to all that believe (as verse 7.) this is excellent.  
To be good is profitable unto ourselves: but to be Eminently exemplarily good, is profitable to others.  
He or she that is really good, shall save himself, but whoso is rarely good shall save others also. 
Mat. 5.16.  Their light doth so shine before men, that they see their good works, and glorify their Father which is in Heaven, this is excellent.  
It is a Christians excellency not to set himself any bounds in holiness; not to content himself with any measure or degree of grace: but with the Apostle, to forget the things that are behind, 
Phil. 3.13, 14.  and reaching forth unto those things which are before, to press toward the mark.  
That which is the worldly man's shame, is the Christians glory, never to have enough, what SINGULAR thing do ye do? 
Mat. 5.47. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉.  was our Saviour's Question; what do you more than others?  
It is a Christians glory to be singular! the world hates singularity, but God commends it.  

3. In perseverance.  Thirdly, A Christians excellency consists in being p●rseveringly good.  
Ye did run well; 
Gal. 5.7.  is the reproach of a Christian, and of his profession; perseverance is the glory of both. It is the glory of a Christian when their goodness is not as the morning cloud, 
●os. 6.4.  and as the early dew, that quickly passeth away, but as the morning light, 
Pro. 4.18. Rev. 2.19.  which groweth clearer and clearer to the perfect day. It was the shame of Ephesus that she had lost her first Love, 
Verse 4.  but the glory of Thyatyra, that her last works were more than the first. The Trees of God bring forth more fruit in their old age, 
Ps. 92.14.  they are fat and flourishing, when others whither and die, they retain their verdure, and are full of sap: this is the excellency of a Christian.   

Use.  

Use. Examinanation.  And it may serve,  
First, By way of Trial in Self-examination; are you such Christians?  
1. Are ye universal in Lord more faith, and mor● love, and more holiness, 〈◊〉 more meekness of spirit, an● more zeal, 
Si dixti suffieit persisti Aug.  and more Lor● of every grace: when every 〈◊〉 say you have enough ye hav● nothing: ye are nothing; so fa● from excellent that ye are not real but a mere Lukewarm Laodicean, that saith, I am rich and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; 
Rev. 3.17.  and knowest not that thou art wretched and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.  
3. Are ye persevering Christians? Are your s●irits steadfast with ●od? Are your judgements sablished in the truth? Are your hearts established in grace? do ye keep close to the good old Principles which you have sucked in from the breasts of the Gospel? etc. do ye proceed in the way that is called holy? Are ye steadfast and In●oveable always abounding in the work of the Lord? 
2 Cor. 15.   
Alas brethren, if this be to be excellent, where shall we find an Excellent Man, or an excellent woman? as the 10. verse complains who can find avertuous woman? where shall we find this excellent daughter?  
Solomon or his Mother (in this Chap.) did find her, 
Application.  at lest in the Character. And behold I can point you to her in person. Amongst others & before many in whom this Character (here) was ever examplified since Solomon's time, namely in this truly Honourable Christian whose funerals we this day celebrate Mrs. ELISABETH SCOTT. Uupon whose monument (where ever it shall stand) to her immortal fame and glory, may justly be inscribed This Epitaph.  
Many daughter have don● virtuously BUT THOU EXCELLEST THEM ALL.  
Doubtless she was an exlelent Christian, a Christian of an incomparable spirit and complexion.  
All these 3 ingredients of excellency were visible in her to the eyes of all the beholders, especially, such who had the happiness of more intimate Converse and acquaintance with her.  
She was 

universally  
Eminently  
Perseveringly   good  
She was Universally good: with that Elizabeth in the Gospel she walked in all the commandments and statutes of God blameless. 
inopem me c●pia fecit.   
Thardly know where to begin, less how to make an end of very much that I could say of her I will confine myself to these 10. Excellencies.  
First she was a most knowing Christian; 
1 Knowldg  she had attained to an high degree of proficiency in the School of Christ: she was as emminently versed in the methods of Grace and the Mystery of godliness, able to speak as distinctly and pertinently to any piece of an inward practical Christian as any of her Sex and standing in Religion that ever I had the happiness to be acquainted with.  
When I first set upon Sacrament-Reformation, in thi● place she was the first in a●● the Congregation that appeared in the countenancing and encouraging of that wor● at which time she gave the most singular account of the work of grace, and confessi●● of her faith that I have hard; to the very high satisfaction and admiration of such as were present. 
Wisdom.  
Scientia, is an habit of principles in the understanding. Sapientia, a right improvement of those principles unto practice.   
2. And her knowledge was not only notional swimming in the Brain, wherewith most of the professors of this age please themselves; but her knowledge was joined with wisdom and prudence, whereby she brought down all her principles into practice and turned every DOCTRINE into USE; what light there was in her judgement, warned down into her heart, beamed out most gloriously in her life & conversation. She was a practical Christian; and indeed her knowledge was the fruit of her obedience; according to the tenor of that blessed promise of our Saviour, 
Joh. 7.17.  If any man will do Gods will, he shall know his Dotrine. A strange Method: In nature knowledge precedes action: in Grace action precedes knowledge: where there is an obe●ientiall disposition, knowledge flows in a pace, they that do God's will that they may know it, and Labour to know God's will that they may do it, are the thriving Christians.  
So it was with this Excellent woman Her knowledge and practise ●ran parallel, and did mutually transfuse vigour and vivacity one into an other.  
3. Notwithstanding the greatness of her knowledge She was of Singular humility Her knowledge did not puff her up, 
Humility.  
1 Cor 8.1.  her head was not so high but her heart lay as low; She was as mean in her own eyes as she was honourable in the eyes of standers by. She was a Christian of infinite worth but She knew it not. Proud professors do not usually speak more contemptuously of others, than she would do of herself: she was of jobs Spirit.  
Though She were perfect she would not know her own soul; she did despise herself. 
job. 9.21.   
And this humility of hers was the Nurse to all her other graces; 
Humilitas con●srvatrix virtutum Bern.  faith is the mother, humility the nurse.  
4. She was a woman of a Meek an● quiet spirit, 
Meekness  which rendered her very beautiful in the eyes of God and man She could not provoke any; nor easily be provoked by any.  
She had much of the wisdom which is from above which is first pure then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated.  
She was most fearful to give offence, but most free to forgive it: the reason was evident; God had forgiven her thousands of talents, and therefore she thought it no● much to forgive a few pence.  
5. She was a Merciful Christian; full of bowels: the Love of Christ both active and passive (i.e. Christ's lov● to her, 
Mercy  and her love to Christ) had melted her all into Compassion, Compassion to the Bodies of poor Creatures, Compassion to souls, 
Job 29.13.  Compassion to the Outward man, and compassion to the inward. Compassion to the outward man: The blessing of him that was ready to perish came upon her, & she caused the widow's heart to sing for joy.  
She might say with job (again) If I have seen any perish for want of clothing, 
job. 31.19.  or any poor without covering etc.  

Pensioners in Ken●, Conghurst Hawkhurst, Cranbrook, London, Giles in the fields. Ministers.  Great was the number of Pensioners to whom she allowed weekly sums in the Country, and in the City, who now lie down in sorrow, and mingle their drink with ●heir tears.  
Many precious godly Ministers, whose subsistence was scanty, and mean; did she support and encourage with yearly stipends, whose names I could relate, were I not restrained.  

poor Scholars.  She was a liberal contributer to the maintaining of poor Scholars at the University, witness that subscription for Kent, and divers other, to my knowledge.  
Oh what sad lamentations and tears will it occasion in many places, when it shall be sadly reported abroad, Mrs. SCOT IS DEAD!  
At public Collections for the Churches abroad, 
10. l. Piedmond.  and to Calamitous places and people at home, how open and liberal was her hand?  
Besides, upon all the Emergent occasions (which were not rare amongst us) her charity was never straitened.  
I never desired her contribution to any work of mercy, but she gave, and gave liberally; yea it was enough but to hint a considerable work of piety or charity; Yea she would prevent ask, and overdo expectation.  
I have been sometimes forced to use the bridle to her, when the spur could not spring some cold mettle professors of far greater abilities; the truth is, her estate was not so large as her heart; upon which account I have sometimes left her out of my addresses in many works of that nature; for which, when she hath occasionally understood it, she hath been offended, as if a great disservice had been done her.  
The truth is, she had the most generous spirit, and the most liberal hand that ever I met with in her rank and quality.  

A fifth part of her estate went in Charity  By what I have observed, I cannot believe she could give away less in a year then the fifth part of her annual Revenue; And all this without a trumpet, nay her left hand KNEW NOT what her right hand did. 
Mat. 6.3.   

Quest.  Quest. It may be some will ask, I but what good hath she done at her death?  
To which I Answer, 
Answ.  Somewhat she hath done; though not much; of which I can give you this twofold account. 1. That Joynctures are as mortal as the persons themselves that have them: indeed they die together. 2. And above all; she did in her life, what others do at their death, when they can keep it no longer; she made her own eyes her overseers, and her hands her Executors.  
And her mercy to souls was not less than her mercy to the body. 
Mercy to the inward man.   
That was one issue of her worldly estate.  

Lectures.  Contribution towards the maintaining of Lectures, in such places where there was some defect in the public means  
In her own parish in the Country, she encouraged a weekly Lecture (during the time of her retirement in the Country) upon her own charge.  
Her House was the Rendezvous for the godly Ministry within many miles of her habitation, and her Table their Ordinary, not only upon Lecture days, but upon all occasions. Thither repaired tempted souls, doubting consciences, opposed Ministers, oppressed Christians; she was either their Oracle or their Advocate. Divers Exiles of Hungaria, Transilvania, Polonia, 
Exiles.  have been nourished and preserved by her bounty.  
Oh how active to bring it souls to Jesus Christ! what pains she took to inform the ignorant, to reform the places where she lived? how studious to promote the power of godliness? to gain in opposers? to bring out of the snare of the Devil such as were taken captive at his pleasure? yet still within her own line and circle, she was very active, but no busibody, ever serviceable, but never eccentric; Such a rare skill she had to distinguish between doing good, and meddling out of her sphere. And I am humbly confident, as it was her ambition, so it is her happiness that she is not gone to Heaven alone.  

Constant & conscientious Attendance on public ordinances.  Sixthly, she was a constant and conscientious attendant on the public Ordinances: Word, Sacrament, Prayer, etc. She forsook not the Assemblies of the Saints, as the manner of some is; But watched daily at the gates, and waited at the posts of wisdom. And that with this addition of commendation, 
Prov. 8.34.  in her own place.  
She was not a gadding fanciful Professor, who took a pride to be seen in Foreign Assemblies; either to gratify an humour or to get a name; she looked upon it as a duty to own and strengthen the hands of the Ministry under which God had placed her. 
She attended the ordinances in her own place.   
She was afraid she should sin, to desert those, who for their faithfulness met with opposition enough, besides, from them that are without.  
She counted it no Popery to say my Minister, my Pastor, though in the mean time, she was not ignorant of her privilege, 
1 Cor. 3.22.  how that Paul and Apollo, and Cephas was hers; which privilege accordingly, she made use of, in the proper season, etc. when Congregational vacancy justified her going abroad.  
Hence, days of public humiliation, weekly Lectures, and other occasional Assemblies both public and private, were the constant witnesses of her unwearied devotion: yet all this without the least trespass upon her Domestic Affairs: as I shall tell you hereafter.  
As thus she was Constant; So likewise was she Conscientious in her public attendances.  
The time she spent in preparation BEFORE, and in reflection and meditation AFTER the solemn Assemblies, was incredible; especially considering what time she spent with her Family.  
Oh how abundant she was in the work of the Lord, how severe in observing her times for duty, both Domestic and personal, and how provident to prevent, or evade distractions. Surely she was truly what the Father said of St. Paul; 
Insati●bilis Dei cultrix.  An insatiable worshipper of God.  
Hence she attained to a high degree and eminency in holiness (you see I am feign to twist in the second strain of excellency with the first.)  
A Christian she was of a most gracious spirit, and a most holy life, with how much heavenly mindedness did she wind through a world of unavoidable distractions in the world?  
Surely she did wear her Profession with as few stains, and carried as unblemished an holiness with her to Heaven; as most Christians whom this generation hath known.  
A woman of a most Spiritual and profitable Society; The Law of God was in her heart, Psal. 37.31. and therefore her mouth spoke wisdom, and her tongue talked of judgement, verse. 30. out of the abundance of her heart, her mouth spoke to edification, Matth. 12.34. there is none that ever did converse with her, but if they did not go away better than they came, it was their own fault.  
She was always giving or taking. With weak Christians she would teach, with strong she would learn: with all she would be sweet and savoury.  
She had Tightly got the art of Time-redemption: As in the Character here: she opened her mouth in wisdom, 
Prov. 31.26.  and in her t●ngue was the law of kindness.  

Stability in judgement.  Seventhly, Hence also her stability in judgement.  
Unsettled hearing usually begets unsetledness in opinion.  
Erratic hearers (though of the better complexion) usually are not the most stable Christians; they have (many times) their fancy's and their why bibbles, and their crotchets wherewith they do rather trouble themselves and others, then edify. She was none of them (through grace;) she stood like a rock against all blasts of Heresy and Schism; and did not only stand by her principles, but as a Daughter of wisdom, was in a very good measure able to justify wisdom, and give a reason of the hope which was in her. She was a well-bottomed Christian; of a sound judgement: 
1 Cor. 2. ult.  she had the mind of Christ.  
In the ninth place, 
Ninth.  she was not a censorious Christian, as some Professors are who are always finding fault; and many times where they cannot find, the make offences; and seldom have a good word for any but themselves.  
But this worthy Gentlewoman had much of the character of charity in her, bearing all things believing all things hoping all things and enduring all things, 
1 Cor. 13.7.  which were any way capable of a fairer interpretation.  
The truth is, she found so much work to do at home in her own heart, that she had little leisure to stir abroad  
It is a pretty Criticism that the same word in the Greek which signifieth to be idle, 
〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, or ior, arguo.  signifieth also to censure: implying that idle Christians are most censorious.  
She would often say to me, that she durst not too critically inquire into or judge others who came to the Sacrament (unless she knew them scandalous) she had enough to do, to make out her own right to that tremendous Ordinance.  
Ninethly, she was of a most sweet and cheerful spirit; 
Cheerfulness.  she did not want her crosses and trials (and great ones too) yet seldom was there a cloud seen upon her countenance; the ground Whereof was the inward serenity which she possessed in her own spirit, in the sense of God's love and her interest in Christ; of which she had most precious Scripture evidence, which was ballast to her soul in all weathers. Surely the joy of the Lord was her strength, Nehem. 18.10.  
Tenthly, and lastly, She was beyond all parallel; good in her Relations. Never Mother had a better C ie: never children bade a better Mother: never Servants had a better Governor: never Friends a better Friend: she filled all her Relations with wisdom and fidelity. 
verse before my text.   
Her Children rise up and call her blessed.  
She was a Mother of ten thousand to them, Both in respect of 


A good mother in temporals.  Their Temporal Estates.  
Their Spiritual Estates.    
As to their Temporals; God wrought little less then miraculously by her, for their abundant enlargement.  
Three Sons she had by two several Husbands, to whom she hath left fair and liberal Estates, as if they had been all Elder Brothers, though it was not in the power of their dying Fathers hands to do it.  

Her Firstborn, Sir Howland Roberts of Glassenbury in Kent.  Her Firstborn, the hopes and honour of his Father's Family, by her wisdom and indefatigable industry, she hath quietly invested into the Ancient and Honourable Inheritance of his Noble Ancestors of Glassenbury in Kent: in the Possession of that Ancient Name of the Roberts, alias Rookhersts ever since the Conquest: So making ●ood Solomon's character, the wise woman buildeth her house, Pro. 14.1.  

Her youngest Son.  Her youngest Son, born but to a third part of his Ancestors inheritance; and that also not without encumbrances, by her incredible prudence, she hath lest now Heir Apprent to the whole estate; not of a mean consideration. 
Conghurst in Hawkhurst in Kent.  With the Exemplar in this description of an Execellent woman, v. 16. She considered the field and bought it, and with the fruit of her hands, she planted the vineyard.  
Her Middle Son; Second by her first husband, 
Her middle son.  born to little or nothing of his progenitors; by the favour God gave his gracious mother in the sight of her own Honourable family, was adopted into a very worthy portion of a Noble inheritance of the Howlands.  

The elder gracious, the younger hopeful  For her two daughters who were very precious in her eyes, She hath Secured sortions not beneath their living Father's honour though far above their dying abilities.  
It is wonderful in my eyes that she should provide so fully for all her children out of such a narrow and perplexed estate as fallen to her managing by her Husbands, for certainly the world (as it is usually) did overvalue her incoms and undervalue her issues.  
I say it is not less than a miracle to any that shall duly consider it that she should have so little, (comparatively) and do so much; both for her one family and for the Household of Faith.  
She gave to strangers, as if she had forgotten her own Children; and so provided for her Children as if she had been a stranger to works of mercy.  
But doubtless God was with her and made good the Mystery of the widows Cruse of Oil, & handful of Meal, for the paying of her debts, & preserving of her Family.  
This worthy Gentlewoman was not less a Mother to them in Spirituals then in temporals: 
A good mother in spirituals.  the neglect whereof is the great sin of most Parents, and the ruin of their Children; 
I b. 39.13.14.15.16.  of whom we may say as Job of the Ostrich, She leaveth her Eggs in the Earth, and warmeth them in the dust; and forgetteth that the forth may crush them, or that the wild beasts may break them; she is hardened against her young ones, as though they were not hers: her labour is in vain without fear, because God hath deprived her of wisdom, neither hath he imparted unto her understanding.  
The most of Parents, if they can but Earth their Children enough, and warn them in the Dust, the Dust-heapes of the world, if they can but lad them with thick Clay, as Habbakkuk phraseth silver and gold: 
Hab. 2.6.  they think they have provided well for them: in the mean time th●y consider not that the foot of temptation may crush them, or that wild brutish lusts may destroy them, they remember not that in all this provision heaped up, there is nothing done for the immortal soul; nothing laid in that may be a fence against temptation, or a preservative against sin: so much their hearts are hardened against their young ones; as though either they were not theirs, or, as if they had no souls. Their labour is in vain; all the care and travel for their Children is fruitless, laid out only upon empty vanities, which perish in the using, and their Children with them, forever without intervening grace.  
The Reason followeth; The god of this world hath deprived them of saving wisdom, and hath shut their eyes against spiritual understanding.  
This precious Handman of the Lord was not so: Her great care was to make them good, rather than great; rich in grace, rather than rich in the world. Her word was towards them that of the Apostle, my little children of whom I travel in birth again, (or the second time) till Christ be form in you. 
Gal 3.19.   
I am confident their spiritual birth cost her more throws and sorrows; more cries and tears then ever their natural did. Her Children were all (to my knowledge) to her, what Aug. was to Monica, Children of many tears and prayers, which are all upon the file in Heaven; and I am humbly confident, answers of peace are preparing for them; they were all the Children of her vows.  
Oh the care and pains she took for their holy educa ion! what perpetual labour did that gracious foul take in Catechising them in the princples of Religion, 
Chatechizing.  continually dropping in holy instructions!  
How careful was she that they should sanctify the Sabbath? read the Scriptures? repeat Sermons? wherein all of them had attained to excellent abilities, some by pen, the rest (even the * youngest by memory: 
Not above nine or ten years of age. ) her Methods and Travel herein were incredible.  
Surely, in all these respects, as it is here said of this Excellent woman, 
verse 28.  Her Children rise up and call her blessed.  
They do, and they have cause so to do; and great need they have to look that the Harvest be answerable to the seed; lest otherwise, their Education rise up in judgement against them in time to come; and they have cause to curse themselves instead of blessing her; and to wish they had been born of a Turk or an Infidel, rather than of so holy a Mother.  
But I hope better things, etc.  

Her care of her servants.  Her servants have not lest cause to bless her, than her Children; whose Spiritual soul good she tendered as if they had all been the fruit of her own bowels: They shared with her Children in her pious discipline and instruction according to their several capacities she would caution them to prepare for holy Ordinances, 
Holy Ordinances.  and inquire how it was with them after the Ordinance was finished, what they remembered? what impressions they found upon their Spirits? She would be often conferring wi●h them about their Evidences, always calling upon them to get a bottom, to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, and to redeem the time.  
I had almost said she had none in her Family but godly servants; and the reason is, because if she did not find them such, she would labour to make them such, at least conformable to the outward duties of religion; which if any after due admonition refused, she would not retain them longer in her Family.  

She had a spirit of prayer.  She practised much Divides Platform of Occon●●cal Government in the to Psalm.  
She had an excellent Spirit of Prayer, but accompanied with a rare modesty, for though (when she had 〈◊〉 Chaplain in her house,) she was able to perform the duty in her own person with much judgement & affection, Yet in the presence of those for whom she conceived that work more proper, she could not be tempted to undertake it, with the greatest Solicitation and importunity.  
In a word to close this first branch of Excellency, she was a sincere practiser of that Evangelical Rule. Whatsoever things are true, 
Phil. 4.8.  whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there were any virtue; and if there were any praise, these were the things she thought of, these were the things she pursued with life and vigour.  
And thus I have done with the first Ingredient Her Universality.  

Her eminency in grace.  The second is her Eminency; as she was universal, so she was eminent in goodness.  
But herein I have prevented myself in the universality neither could I avoid it; I could not speak of her gra●●, but I must mention also her Eminency in those graces.  
And it is well; for if that were yet to do, I might be over burden some.  
I shall add only the word; that this Noble Christian; she was as much above the size of other Professors as they are above the size of other men and women, not only really good, but most Exemplary.  
And thirdly, and lastly, 〈◊〉 she was eminently good, so she was perseveringly good.  

Her perseverance.  She was no wavering Christian: And the reason is, because she built not upon the sand but upon the Ra●● not upon the sand of imitation (the Rule that most t●●● up their Religion by) but upon the Rock and Foundation of Scripture evidence: 〈◊〉 wa● a most Noble B●rean; She took up nothing upon trust but searched the Scriptures whither those things were so which were delivered unto her in the Ministry of the Gospel. 
Act. 17.11. of an honourable extractions.   
To conclude, she began betimes and endured to the end.  
It pleased God to convert her presently after her first marriage, 
about 26 years since.  when (as she hath often acknowledged) she before was a vain Creature carried away into the same pride and fashions, and neglect of God and of religion as other of her rank were. The occasion of her conversion was by a dangerous fall from an horse, 
The occasion of her Conversion.  for in the days of her vanity she delighted much to ride a hunting; in her vehement pursuit of which games Jesus Christ met her as once he did Paul and unhorsed her, so that lying at his feet and having received in herself the s●nte●●● of death both temporal & eternal she began to cry out (as he did) with trembling and astonishment, Lord what wilt thou have me to do, Act. 9.6.  
Soon after her conversion while it was but yet twilight with her she unhappily fell in to the hands of some Sectaries who did rather perplex her then pervert her; 
How she fell into the Sectaries.  but God was graciously pleased to make a speedy rescue of this tender convert, by the Counsel and wisdom of a reverend holy Minister of an adjacent Congregation, 
But was seasonably rescued.  with the care and watchfulness of divers other judicious Christians who were jealous over her with an holy jealousy.  
I said [unhappily] but I must recall that word (though no thanks to the seducer) Godmade it an happy occasion of much good to her soul, for the snare being once broken & she escaped like a bird out of it, she hated heresies & schism with a greater hatred; and stood unshaken in the truth of God, and fellowship with the Saints to her dying day. From that time she girded up her loins & rejoiced like a mighty man refresheth with wine to run her race.  
From that time I say God carried on the work of grace gloriously in her soul. Her goodness was no morning cloud, not early dew that goeth away. But as the morning light which shineth more and more unto the perfect day: 
Pro. 4.18.  the Heb. is to be translated word for word thus.  
The way of the just is as a light shining and growing and enlightening unto, or until the prepared day. The description agreeth singularly with this Saint of God; the grace of God in her, was a light very conspicuous, shining in a Gospel adorning conversation, and growing or going, still ascending and gathering strength and illuminating; Scattering beams of of light and warmth until the prepared day, or perfect day, the day that is prepared unto perfection, And oh how early did this shining Christian attain to her prepared perfection! Her Sun did set at none day. She was translated into the other Orb of glory, when she had finished little more than half her course in the firmament of grace, and the reason was because she did much work in a little time; she ran a pace, and therefore arrived the earlier at her journey's end.  
When she came to die, 
Her death.  she had nothing to do but to die, her work was done; she had oil in her vessel as well as oil in her lamp, her graces were in a readiness; her evidences were clare, her interest in Christ was sealed upon her heart by the spirit of promise; And She herself stood always as it were at the door of her Tabernacle waiting for her Lord: when he should return from the wedding; that when he came and knocked, 
Lu. 12.35.  She might open to him immediately.  
And happy it was for her she was so prepared; for death gave her but little warning, 
Her death  not that it killed her outright at the first stroke; but in as much as the nature of her distemper was such, as that seizing first upon her spirits, it rendered her uncapable of speaking much, or having much spoken to her; the preventing whereof was the special care and charge of her Doctors.  
So that had she had her evidences to seek when she should have had them to use, her graces to get when she stood in need of her graces; death might have been indeed a surprise to her of the Saddest consequence imaginable.  
Hence I say from the first of her sickness to the last, 
She spoke not but very spiritual.  she spoke not much, but what she did speak was spiritual and heavenly; upon the first seizure of her distemper, she called her two daughters to her and renewed Joshuahs' charge upon them to serve the Lord, and to fear him; 
A Fever in her Spi●its.  to take heed of sinning against God; as they desired God should take care of them. From the time she kept her bed she would be often speaking with holy admiration, how infinitely good God had been unto her e'er since he had been pleased to reveal his Son in her. 
Gal 1.16.  She did often express St Paul his holy indifference to life or death, I am willing to die, and yet contented to live if I may do more service for God. 
Phil. 1.22.22.   
Myself standing by her once, I said to her, you would be glad to be gone from us, would ye not▪ she turned her head, and with a sweet smile replied, I desire not to leave you, but I would be glad to be with jesus Christ.  
If she were asked, how she did, she would sometimes answer, I am the Lords Prisoner, sometimes, An admirour of free graces and so I desire to be. She was very willing to take whatsoever was advised; and would often heavenlize earth-refreshing with spiritual contemplation, Oh this is very good and pleasant would she say; and if this be so good oh how sweet is my good God? how pleasant is Jesus Christ?  
Her expressions were but short, but very sweet; an heavenly ejaculation or two and then silence for a considerable time. Her daughters standing by her bed's side, she bespoke them after this manner.  Oh children how sweet and precious is Christ, but oh how bitter a thing is sin? and after a little breathing: Be sure to get an interest in Christ and try your faith. 
To the Nurses and servants that came to turn her in her bed (for the Fever that had accended her spirits) and exhausted her strength so fast in a few days, that she was not able to turn, or help herself in the least measure, she would say, I am very weak; but my God is very s●rong, and there is my comfort, he will lift me up.  
Her elder daughter out of a childlike desire of her life: would. Sometime say.  
Mother I hope the Lord in much mercy will restore you to us again;  
To which she retuned what God pleaseth; if ho have no more work for me to do than I am exceeding willing to die and to be with Christ which is best of all, but if God do recover me, the Lor● give me more grace that I may walk answerably to his mercies.  
Upon the Sabbath morning it being Sacrament day, her eldest daughter came to take her leave of her saying.  
Mother, I am going to Church and to the Sacrament,  
That is well, said she, but I cannot go, only be sure to go in the strength of Christ, and do all your duties in his strength, knowing that we have none of our own to do any thing that is good, & the Lord go with you; with many other gracious words which dropped like honey from her lips.  
The younger daughter staying at home, she asked her (according to her constant use) child what do you remember of what you have read? and when the child repeated some portion of it, she answered,  It is well, but be sure to practise it. 
And then she would break out again, Oh how sweet is Jesus Christ, but what an ugly thing is sin.  
When the evening came, she called to her elder daughter, to go and repeat the Sermons she had heard in the Family, as she used to do.  
On the next day coming to visit her, I found her very weak, yet I presumed on so much liberty as to hint a word or two, to this purpose I hope ye have found no want of a Sabbath the last day; though God tie us to means, he doth not tie himself to means, the presence of Jesus Christ I hope hath abundantly compensated the absence of the Ordinances!  Yea, (she replied) I I sat under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet unto my taste. 
She was from thence (for some hours) under a kind of delirium; but it was very calm and gracious, for that night the Curtains being drawn (and all attendants enjoined silence by the Physicians) she lay praying the greatest part of the night, with as much sweetness and savour as in her health: And when the Maids and Nurses came about her, she wor●● speak most sensibly to them Oh labour to make your calling and election sure, get an interest in Christ while you are in health and strength.  
After this the distemper working more in her head, occasioned her to speak somewhat erratickly, though (blessed be God) never uncomely; Yea and if any good notion were hinted, she would close with it very sweetly, and chiding herself would say in a very sensible manner, My foolish fancy runs upon abundance of other things, that I cannot stay my thoughts upon God as I would.  
And so continued speaking much to herself and her God, though not very distinctly, yet all very spiritually.  
From the time she kept her Chamber, which was from Wednesday till Monday, she never spoke of any worldly affairs; and if her servant had come to ask her any question in order to her temporal affairs, she would say to him, oh do not trouble me with any of these things on the Sabbath day.  

During the greatest part of her sickness.  For that was one of her happy mistakes, she thought all the whole time was Sabbath.  
And truly so it was to her: The Law of the Sabbath was was eng●aven upon her heart; what others wickedly pretend (indeed to the ●●●lishing of the Sabbath, not to the spirituallizing of then conversations) was real in this holy servant of Christ. Every day was a Sabbath with her, especially upon her deathbed, as she drew nearer and nearer to that rest which remains for the children of God; she was wrought into a more suitable frame of heart to that everlasting Sabbath her motion heaven-ward was natural, motions are stronger & swifter towards the centre, after which she aspired, and into which she expired: And in which she now triumpheth with Him whom her soul loved, and with the Spirits of just men made perfect; and all the Elect Angels of God to all Eternity.  
Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift.   
FINIS.   

Several Letters from divers Ministers concerning the Life and Death of Mistress ELIZABETH SCOTT, with a Narrative under her own hand of remarkable experiences, and the gracious deal of God towards her.  

Mr. Naltons' Letter to Mr. Case.  
Dear Brother,  
AMong many sad signs, and symptoms of God's displeasure towards the land, I look on this, as not the least, viz. Gods removing so many of his precious Saints and servants from among us, who while they were in the land of the Living) helped to keep off the storm of God's anger, and to turn away his indignation from a God-provoking people. Oh that our hearts were more deeply affected with it! that we might feelingly say with the Prophet Isaiah (chap. 16. vers. 11. My bowels shall sound like a harp for England; Yea, we will sigh with the breaking of our loins, Ezek. 21.6. One choice Jewel among the rest, God has of late gathered to his Cabinet, namely, pious, precious, Mistress Scott; Concerning whom, because you desired my concurrent Testimony, as being one so well known to me, having been a member of my Congregation for divers years together, till she came to be under your charge: I have this to say; She was a Gentlewoman of a choice spirit, of a marvellous sweet temper and disposition, of an amiable winning carriage, and of a truly pious and Religious conversation. She was one that made Religion her business, her 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, not her 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉: She made it her constant course vigorously to drive a Trade for heaven, and to be pressing towards the mark, even the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus; She was not like those, that Austin speaks of, qui utuntur Deo, ut fruantur mundo; But she made use of the world, but as a footstool, to raise up her soul to the enjoyment of God, as her portion for ever. She was not weary of God's service, like those hypocrites that said, what a weariness is it, Mal. 1.13. but duty was her delight, and sin her greatest burden: The world did not make her weary of duty, but duty made her weary of the world; Her constant frequenting of Ordi ances, (wherein she was both eminent and exemplary) her closest retirements, wherein she saw often a glimpse of that glory which she now enjoys in the bosom of Jesus Christ, made her long earnestly to be at her father's house, and to breath out her Cupio desolvi, Oh that I might be with him whom my soul loveth! In brief, she made haste to heaven, lived much in a little time; holding forth the Word of life, by a holy and undaunted profession, holding fast the Word of Truth by a constant and undaunted Resolution, and so finished her course with joy. Therefore I conceive, that this Text which you sweetly opened at her Funeral, was rightly and suitably applied to her, Many daughters have done virtuously, etc. This Testimony I have given not for her sake, that is dead, but for the sake of those that are living. The dead praise not the Lord, saith David, Psal. 115.17. Look as the dead return no praises to the living God, so neither do they regard any praises from living men; Our commendations cannot help them, our discommendations cannot hurt them, as our prayers cannot reach them, so neither can our praises profit them; But happy surely are they, that can tread in the Steps of those blessed Saints, that have gone before us; whose faith follow, (saith the Apostle) considering the end of their conversation, Heb. 13.7. If we do as they did, we shall speed as they sped; The Lord of his infinite mercy, help us to serve our generation faithfully (as this eminent godly Gentlewoman did) that we may do every days duty with Christian cheerfulness, and bear every days burden with Christian patience, and in the midst of all changes, straits and storms, hold out with Christian perseverance, that in the end of our days, we may receive the end of our hopes, even the salvation of our souls; It is and shall be the hearty prayer of  
Your affectionate loving Friend and Brother in the Lords Work. JA. NALTON.   

Mrs. SCOTS own writings, which she hath left under her own hand.  
A Little before her death, she began to write in a book her experiences of God's goodness to her, and intended to have filled it up, but she was taken away before she had done many leaves of it; only she had written before, divers things in some papers.  

In the Book she beginneth and proceedeth thus.  
SOme notes to keep special things in my remembrance, that I may be quickened to answer God's ends, in all his gracious deal to me, to whom all his ways have been mercy and truth; and I desire, my ways towards him, may be constrained obedience, from faith and love, wrought by his spirit in my heart, in all things.   

How God did effectually call me at first to himself.  
I was born a child of wrath, and an heir of hell, and in my youth, was very vile and vain; Yet I did duties in a formal way, and was very confident God did love me, and of my good estate: Between sixteen and seventeen I was married, and about nineteen year old as I was riding, it being hunting time, I fell down and put my leg out of joint, which was a great misery to me, but in that affliction, God did work on me with some convictions and resolutions, if I were well again to walk in God's ways; afterward enquiring, his Providence brought Mr. byfield's Book to me, the Marrow of Divinity, and in reading of it, God did convince me of my abundant abominable sins: I made a catalogue of them I could remember, and was in much trouble for them under the spirit of bondage, I think some months: but I have forgotten how long; but God made sin very bitter to me, and broke my heart for my sin, and from my sin: and I know God broke my heart, because his love did it, many a tear of Love did I shed in the bosom of my God. When the spirit of Adoption was come to me, then how did I mourn for sinning against the Lord, and dishonouring of his dear Name? But when I was in the pangs of the Spirit of bondage and new birth, I had great troubles of Conscience, and grievous pangs and after that, dreadful basphemous thoughts, and fain would I have run away from God, looked upon his ways as grievous, and had hard thoughts of him, but yet the Lord would not let me go, but carried me through, that I had no power to leave seeking of him, and did unhook me, and brought me to keep Fasts by myself, and to humble my soul before him, and shown me how vile I was in a great measure, and made me confess my sins with shame and sorrow; Then after this, he made me close with Jesus Christ in a promise, and gave me full assurance that all my sins were pardoned by the blood of Jesus Christ fully, and I gave up myself in Covenant to him, and by his sweet influence, and shining of his face, and comforts of his spirit, and grace, he hath made me hate the most sweet and secret sin; and my hatred of all sin appears, because I desire the death of it, and desire to be freed from the enjoyment of the sweetest pleasure of the most secret sin, that I may enjoy communion with my God, whose love is fare better than life: and I desire so to esteem it. God hath brought me to Christ, and hath made me put on his righteousness, and hath given me to Christ, and given Christ to me, and I know it certainly that God did choose me from all eternity, because he hath made me to give up myself to Jesus Christ for these ends that Jesus Christ gave himself for me; That by believing, I might give God the glory of his free grace and faithfulness, and that my sins might be pardoned and mortified, and that I may be sanctified and made holy by him, redeemed from all iniquity, and vain conversation, and made a peculiar servant of his, zealous of good works, that I may honour him in bearing forth much fruit, and be fully acted by his spirit and grace, for the glory of his name in all things, that Jesus Christ may see the travail of his soul in me, as much as I am capable, so long as I have a being, that I may admire free grace. God hath given me Jesus Christ by faith, oftentimes in Sacraments, Word, and Prayer, and Meditation, by the conduit pipes of his Ordinances. And I live by Jesus Christ, because his Spirit liveth in me in some measure, convincing, guiding, and councelling of me; And my desire is, to honour him as much as I am capable for ever, in his life, and strength, and spirit.  
Thus fare Mrs. Scot had proceeded in the said Book, when the Lord took her from recollecting and improving his gracious experiences to her here, to the immediate and perfect enjoyments of himself above.   

Other Writings that Mrs. Scot hath left, concerning God's goodness to her.  
ABout the middle of April, 1645. there was the second rising in Kent, and I was grievously perplexed, thinking my husband, jewels, goods, and all I had, and my life, should have then by the risers been taken from me, and I was in exceeding fear, and dishonoured God by over much weeping and sorrowing before others, but that night I heard the Risers were suppressed, than I had much joy, and resolved through God's strength that my heart should be weaned from the world, which before, I looked for much help from, but I found none; I saw it was empty: then resolved I also to leave resting upon it, and to spend my life, and strength, and means of grace, to the uttermost advantage of God's glory, and my souls eternal good; and never to sin away any opportunity of doing good, and service for his glory: Thus did I see, that this great strait, and dark Providence of the Lord wrought abundantly for my good. Two days after, I did in private by myself keep a day of fast, and had some grief for my own sin and others, and had some comfort in God's acceptance, though I was much wanting in the performance of the same. After my fast day, there was a public day of thanksgiving for that mercy of subduing the Risers, my spirit was much sadded, that my heart was no more in frame suitable to the said day, that I did no more rejoice in God in it. Afterward I had sweet assurance of God's eternal love, and saw much vanity and emptiness in all earthly things, and desired to order my conversation aright. Again I kept another private day of fast by myself, and though much distempered yet had some hopes of acceptance. I kept another day of private fast by myself, to seek to God for more grace, to honour him, and that God would do also the same in my husband that he might honour God.  
In August, 1647. a little after my husband died, my heart was exceedingly out of frame, but a Sabbath day at night the Lord came sweetly to me, in persuading me to trust in him from what he had done; So I had sweet assurance of his Eternal love through Christ at prayer, and the pardon of all my sins, and gave my self to him to do with me what he would, and so the temptation and those thoughts went away, and I had sweet peace. Afterward we kept a fast in the family, to humble ourselves for the breach in the death of my husband, and then I had great desires to honour God in my place, and gave up myself to God and had peace, and afterward sweet assurance that I was his. This Sacrament at Hawkherst I was not prepared as I ought to have been, the day before I lost my frame of grace exceedingly, by my unsensibleness of Ireland's misery, and being merry when I should have sorrowed, and on the Lord's day morning before I went to the Sacrament, I had a grievous temptation, as if I might live without ordinances, and as if there were no necessity of them; O this deadened my heart to the duty, yet my faith fought with it, and brought me to the Lords supper, where I received Christ, and gave myself to him, and found sweet comfort and strength from Christ in his Ordinance; and I do resolve in Christ's strength, to walk holily and closely with God all my days to his honour, and to cleave close to Christ in all his Ordinances, whilst I can enjoy them. Being reproved by one, my heart did greatly rise, and I found I was not willing to submit to Gods will and ways in all things, but I had a great combat, and was resolved to submit to God in all, and saw more of my heart and the world then ever, and I had sweet influence from God and shinings of his face in prayer. The next Lord's day after I had received the Sacrament, I went to the Sacrament again, my Lord having by a providence provided another feast for me, knowing my necessities; and I did sit under Christ's shadow, and did receive his body and blood by faith. Another Sacrament at evening I had very sweet fruits and effects of Christ in me. Another Sacrament afterward I was much failing and wanting in doing my duty and acting my grace, but God gave me Christ in free grace, and I desire to live by faith upon him, to him and his glory, giving myself to the Lord to be his, and not mine own; and desire to live on Christ as my portion and strength.  
In January, 1650. Mrs. Scot began another, of the sweet experiences (writes she) my God hath given me of his faithful performances of his Word and Promise to me. In January 1650. The Lord sweetly told me in the Ministry of his Word, out of the fourth Chapter of the Ephesians, the eighth Verse, how Christ had led captivity captive in me, and for me in some measure; the same day, an occasion there was that caused my corruptions much to arise, but my God according to his Word did lead that captivity captive, and at night God gave me sweet come in of himself into my sold, and sweet assurance, and some experience of the true & real work of Grace in me, & how God made the rise of sin the ruin of sin in me by Christ. The Lord gave me very sweet experience of his power in preserving me, when two in my family had the small pox, and three the measles, according to his word in Psal. 91.7. It shall not come nigh thee. O never distrust thy God more. After this, God did show me in some measure the cursed vileness of my nature, and suffered that bitter root of blasphemy to rise up in my heart, and God did this to punish me, for my vain and sinful thoughts, but Jesus Christ made my faith to fight against it, but it was very sad and bitter to me, and after I was buffeted, God made me see the vileness of sin, and sinful thoughts, and made me in his strength resolve against all sin, and to hate it, and to walk colsely with my God, and choose rather to offend all the world, then commit the least sin, and to lose all, and suffer all miseries, rather than commit the least sin; For God can make ones own heart and conscience a hell to one, and one's bed and all ones comforts bitter as death. And I desire to prise mercy, and close walkings with God, to lie down and rise up with him, and to pity others; This precious experience and lesson God taught me by that affliction, as by many other, and drove sin and vain thoughts from me in some measure, making Christ sweet, and fulfilling his Word, in Rom. 6.14. and Rom. 8.28. My God doth give me sweet experience of the growth of grace in my soul, and all from the virtue of Christ's blood. Before this Sacrament, my preparations were not so great as they should have been, but my God did drive me from resting on any thing in myself, and brought me to him without money and without price, and gave me sweet assurance of the truth of the work of grace on my heart; I love him because he loved me first, and with his loving kindness did he draw me. This Sabbath when I went to the Sacrament, I saw my preparation small and my thoughts not so sweet as they should, but my heart desiring the Lord to order my thoughts aright, and act my graces in singing part of the 23 Psalms, before morning Sermon, God sweetly melted me in some measure with some tears of love, and after did as it were sweetly take me by the hand, set me down at his table, and comfortably intimated it was my portion, and so I sat under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet unto my taste, and God did act my faith to take Christ, and pardon, sanctification, mortification in his blood, and sealed deliverance from temptations by his body broken and blood shed, and all the fruits thereof; some effects I had afterward, and the Word was sweet, and I came home rejoicing and resolving to live and die, to and for and with God, giving myself for ever to him, to live and move all in him and by him, to rest upon his word, and promise, and expect to live by him according to it; I desire to have such a day again to receive Christ, I was many ways failing, all is free grace, God doth all that is good in me, for I am a hell by nature, but I have found most precious virtue in the blood of Jesus Christ, that it hath in some measure meekened my spirit and overcome wicked thoughts in me. Next Sacrament I was failing in my preparation and acting of my graces, and was troubled I had no more light of God's countenance, and my corrupt nature was apt to rise: but God kept it down, and afterward taught me these lessons by it.  
1. That sin was not so bitter to me, nor so bitterly bewailed by me, as it ought; the more bitter sin is, the sweeter is Christ.  
2. That God would have me prise Ordinances to enjoy Christ, but not to rest upon them.  
3. That I should live by faith and not by sense, yea though there be no sense.  
4. That God's loving countenance is better than life, and that God would have me depending, and contented with whatsoever he will give: O that I could learn and practise these lessons, which were precious fruits of the Ordinances. This Sacrament I was failing in my meditation, examination, and excitation, and my dead heart much hindered me in the service of the living God, but the Lord brought me to his table with some assurance it was my portion, and I sat under his shadow, and he acted my graces, I desire to magnify free grace, and to expect strength from him to do it according to the Covenant sealed in his blood. This Sacrament I had some sweet actings of faith above sense, and assurance that God was my father and his power and wisdom would order all things for my good. This Sacrament, though I did not mourn for my sins that did slay my Saviour, nor act sacramental repentance as I ought, yet by faith I received Jesus Christ, and came home with some comfort, and had some softness of heart. I had sweet expe●ience of my Gods answering my prayer in the very thing I desired. This Sacrament, though I did not receive so much of Christ as I desired, yet I had some sweet effects of his blood, in resolving in his strength not to give way to unbelief nor sin and desiring to come again to his Ordinance.  
This day I was at a fast, and God came sweetly in and melted my heart, and made his promise good, that they that wait on him shall renew their strength, God sweetly answered my 〈…〉 mercy for one of my children. This day I did receive Jesus Christ in the Sacrament, and came home rejoicing, and assured my sins were pardoned, and that Christ could as well be pulled out of heaven, as I pulled from Christ. I renewed my Covenant, I gave myself to my God for his service for ever. This Sacrament I did receive Jesus Christ, and sweet influence from him, and I desire to honour him in all things for ever, in my soul, body, estate, will, affections and all; I, and all I have are his, and to be at his ruling in all things at all times; These are fruits of Christ's blood, I desire to bear about the world with me, the dying of the Lord Jesus, and to be crucified to the world by his cross, and to do and suffer for him, and endeavour the good of others souls, and I found my inward man much strengthened and sin weakened. This Sacrament God gave me some resolutions, but I had not much comfort. This Sacrament, I had sweet assurance that my sins should be destroyed. I kept a fast day by myself, to seek help from God, in the great straight I was in; for no power but his could help me out and deliver me: The Lord did graciously assist me, and afterward I kept a fast in private with others about it, my heart was out of fra●e and very he●vy, and perplexed, but God came in and melted, and made the duty very sweet; and at night, a sweet, quiet, and believing waiting frame came upon my spirit; God answered my prayer sweetly and particularly. That text in 1 Cor. 10.13. the Lord made good to me. I resolved to keep a fast by myself and humble my soul before the Lord, and pour out my complaint before him, and seek strength from him; God sweetly encouraging me with many Scriptures, and melted my heart, oft pouring it into his bosom, and drew me out of myself into Jesus Christ. Again I kept a fast by myself to seek the Lord, and humble myself for my failings, and God did sweetly melt my heart, and helped me to pray, and made it a comfortable day, and I desire to hope and wait for a gracious answer, and God did answer me very graciously. I kept another fast by myself, to seek the Lord to mortify my corruptions, that I might not dishonour him, but be acted by him and his grace, to his glory, and to order all for me aright according to his will; the Lord sweetly assisted me, and I desire to wait for an answer, and blessed be his name, he hath sweetly answered my prayer by many remarkable providences which I desire to improve to his glory. God did visit me with a fever, and had shaken his rod at me before, but I took not warning as I should, for God is so gracious, that he delights not in afflicting the chilrens of men, if they return. God's chastizing me was very full of tender gentleness, I felt little or no pain, but kept my bed from monday till saturday, and God chained up Satan that he did not at all tempt me, but I lay with abundance of peace and assurance of God's love, and God made my bed for me, and raised me up again in much faithfulness, and shown me why he had contended with me, and I acknowledged Gods deal exceeding just, merciful, and faithful. The sin that God did especially afflict me for at this time, as he did convince me, was, my great sinning about the Ordinances, God will be sanctified in them that draw nigh to him, and I had been very formal in duties, & cold in them, neglected to go to Ordinances, did not prepare myself before I went as I should; coming sometimes late, distracted at holy duties, and was unprofitable under them, not so mourned when I heard Gods name blasphemed, glad when Sabbaths were done, and vain thoughts then also, guilty of much Sabbath profanation, in coming to the Lords day with a common worldly frame of heart, and having such a common worldly frame of heart on the said days; Being too long in bed on the Lords days mornings, and not doing duties as Sabbath duties, and not walking answerable to the Sabbath Ordinances I enjoyed. So that it was high time for God to come now. The experiences that I have got by this are, that God is very patiented, and good, and faithful, he will not leave me unpunished altogether, neither will he fail or forsake me in it, therefore I resolve in his strength to love him, fear him, and his goodness, serve him, walk closely with him, be zealous for him, give up myself & my all to be laid out for his glory, and in his service, and to sanctify him in all my drawings near to him, to serve him alone, in his strength, and the power and spirit of Christ enabling me, for if he leave me, to myself, I shall sinne more than ever; these are some of the fruits I desire should come forth from this rod. I kept a Fast by myself to humble my soul before God, and renew my repentance, and seek help and direction from him, and my God made it a sweet day unto me. I kept another fast by myself for the same mercies that I did the other before, and the Lord did much assist and help me to mourn for sin, and to pray for Zions' peace, and of the land. I kept another fast by myself to humble my soul for mine own sins, and the sins of others, and to seek for direction in the strait I was in, and the Lord did help me, and after much and long seeking to God, the Lord did answer me.  
The fourteenth of December, 1655. God did vouchsafe unto me a very great deliverance, wherein I saw abundance of his power, wisdom, and goodness in it to me, which were wonderfully discovered, in the way of it, to the Glory of God, and honour of the Gospel, even to the acknowledging it elsewhere, to be the very hand of God; An answer of prayer. I was fully freed and cleared. I desire this great experience should be food for faith, and that I called on God for, it was the faithfulness of God in performing that promise; that he would keep in his way, and he kept me in my calling, which was his way, and so I had protection from him, and he found out a way for me, and I desire to improve my freedom for his glory, and walk more spiritually and closely all my days with God, then ever I have done. The experiences I got by this were,  
1. That it is the duty and safety of a Christian to walk and keep in the way of God, had I been out of God's way, I had been gone.  
2. That there is no difficulty too hard for God, but his wisdom can find out a way, and his power can bring it to pass, and his faithfulness will do it.  
3. That it is the duty of Christians to wait God's leisure and time, which is the best and fittest time.  
4. It is their duty also never to trust to their own heart, but in God, and expect direction, protection, and guidance from him, and I resolve in God's strength always to be and continue in his way, and to believe no difficulty too hard for him, but his wisdom can find out a way, and when we cannot, his power can bring it to pass, and his faithfulness will do it, and I will never trust mine own heart more but wait on God, trust in him, and expect all from him, and hang upon him by faith and prayer. I kept another fast by myself, my God did help me in some measure: I desire to lay all my sacrifices on Christ, that precious altar, that I may be accepted, and answered. I kept another fast by myself for one of my children, God carried me through the duty with some sweet melt and incomes, I desire to wait on him for an answer, and to live my prayers, and still to trust in him, and do duties in faith and obedience. I kept another fast by myself about my children, desiring to do all in Christ's strength, and to expect all upon his account, and God did give me very precious answers. I kept another fast by myself to be humbled for my own and others sins, as my children's, my Father's house, and Sir walter's, and the sins of the times, and to seek blessings and sanctifications of God's dispensations, and directions from the Lord, and desire to wait. I kept another fast by myself, for my children and other things, God did humble me in some measure, and assist me, And God did wonderfully and speedily answer. O bless the God that heareth prayers, and follow God for further mercy. I kept another fast by self, about one of my children, and God gave me some sweet assistance in the duty, and acceptance in Christ. This Sacrament I received Christ and had sweet fruits from him. This Sacrament God did help me to go against some difficulties, and my special errand to Christ was to deliver me from vain roving thoughts, and to fill my heart daily with heavenly meditations, and that I may still breathe forth sweet ejaculations, God gave me Christ and I desire to believe and wait. This Sacrament, I received Christ by faith, and desire to live on him, but my errand was for a broken heart, and sense of sin aright, and I had sweet melt. This Sacrament I had some hatred of sin, and God brought me home with resolutions in his strength to honour him, and act for him, in the places where I were going, and improve all I am and have for his use and honour, and to be more meek to them without. This Sacrament, God freely gave me Christ, and all his purchase and offices, and as I went for more faith and wisdom, so I came away believeving I should have them; God did assist me. This Sacrament God gave me Christ, and sent me comfortably home. This Sacrament I received Christ according to his promise and desire a Law of thankfulness, should by the hand of the Spirit, and in the blood of Christ, be written in my heart, and a law of obedience in my whole life, and all my conversation. This Sacrament though I was failing every way, yet God freely gave me Christ his body broken, and his precious blood, the seal of the Covenant of Grace; and in the afternoon, God told me out of his word, he would give me a new heart; which was that I went for as one end, and I desire to wait and believe.  
These are what as yet are only come to hand, which Mrs. Scot had with her at Holbourn where she died, probably she may have many more in the Country whence she newly came.  
Out of these may be made many useful Observations, for our own Instruction, in our going forth by the footsteps of this member of Christ's flock.  
As Though not many wise after the flesh, not many mighty not many noble are called, 1 Cor. 1.26. yet some are. Act. 17.12. Many of them believed, also of honuorable women, which were Greeks, and of men, not a few. Mar. 15.43. Joseph an honourable Counsellor which also waited for the Kingdom of God.  
Though vanity be never so much yet grace can overpower all, 1 Cor. 6.11. And such were some of you, but ye are washed, etc. Titus 3.3. And we ourselves were sometimes foolish disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, etc.  
When we are making our pursuit to gratify our carnal senses, God can bring us to better enjoyments, Rom. 10.20. I was found of them that sought me not, I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me. The Lord took her at her hunting pleasures to bring her to the comforts of his own spirit.  
Any means when sanctified, can bring us to the Word, and so to God, as the hurting of her leg did her, and the crowing of the Cock did Peter, to remember the word Christ spoke, and to return to him, Mat. 26.74, 75.  
The Lord makes some great in the world great in grace also; rich in earthly blessings, rich in spiritual likewise, that they have all things given them for this life and a better richly to enjoy. Job the greatest of all the men of the East, Job 1.3. And there was none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man one that feared God and eschewed evil, vers. 8.  
Those workings that come from God, carry all to him again. She endeavoured to act all for him that had done so much for her, the waters that come out of the sea return thither again, Rom. 11.36. Of him, and through him, and to him are all things, to whom be glory for ever. Amen.  
She was brought home the usual way of God's people, by the Spirit of bondage to the Spirit of Adoption, Rom. 8.15. Ye have not rcoeived the spirit of bondage again to fear, but ye have received the spirit of Adoption whereby we cry Abba Father.  
God's grace works irresistably, she would fain have run away from God, he would not let her go, but carried her through, and suffered her to have no power to leave seeking of him, Psal. 68 18. Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive, thou hast received gifts for men, yea, for the rebellious also, that the Lord God may dwell among them.  
Such as are most cast down in conversion are usually most lifted up afterward. She had great troubles of conscience then, and grievous pangs, etc. And afterward full assurance all her sins were pardoned by the blood of Christ, and great rejoicings. The Father made merry with the Son when he returned, Luk. 15.23, 24. that was driven to husks, and ready to perish, vers. 16, 17. The Jailor that came trembling, Acts 16.29. afterwards rejoiced, believing in God, vers. 34.  
The way to make our Election in God sure, is by the work of grace in ourselves: I know it certainly, (saith she) that God did choose me from all eternity, because he had made me to give up myself to Jesus Christ, for those ends that Jesus Christ gave himself for me, 1 Thes. 1.4, 5. knowing brethren beloved, your election of God, for our Gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the holy Ghost, and in much assurance. Rom. 8.29. For whom he did foreknow he also did predestinate to be conformed to the Image of his Son.  
Some believers are very high and eminent in the workings and ways of God, 2 Thes. 1.3. Your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all towards each other aboundeth. 1 Cor. 1.5. In every thing ye are enriched by him in all utterance, and in all knowledge, vers. 7. so that ye come behind in no gift. 1 Thes. 1.5. Our Gospel came not unto you in word only but also in power, and in much assurance. 1 Pet. 1.8. Ye rejoice with joy unspeakable, and full of glory. Act. 13.52. The disciples were filled with joy and with the holy Ghost. Acts 9.31. Walking in the fear of the Lord and the in comfort of the holy Ghost. Ps. 32.8. I will instruct thee & teach thee in the way which thou shalt go, I will guide thee with mine eye. Isa. 43.2. When thou passest through the waters I will be with thee, and thorough the rivers they shall not overflow thee, when thou walkest through the fire thou shalt not be burnt; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. Psal. 46.1. God is our refuge and strength a very present help in time of trouble. Gen. 22.14. In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen. 2 Chron. 17.6. His heart was lift up in the ways of the Lord. Psal. 119.32. I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart. Psal. 119.6. Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. She was a believer of the highest form, a star of the first magnitude, one that had not only the graces of the Spirit, but the sealings and joys of the Spirit in abundance, and was rich in the knowledge of the Mysteries of Christ. One that the Lord did much council, and direct in all her ways, and kept her in all her straits, and redeemed her with great deliverances, her extremity often was God's opportunity. One that was raised up and elevated in his service fulfilling all his wills.  
Great Saints have sometimes sore assaults from Satan, as she had sometimes buffet with Paul, 2 Cor. 12.7. haply lest she might have been exalted above measure, through the abundance of incomes. Pirates set upon the richest ships, and trees are most threshed that be fullest of fruit.  
Christian's high in comforts are low in acts of mortification, and self-denial: How often did she fast and afflict her soul before the Lord, and was sensible of her failings, Luke 2.37. She departed not from the Temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. In all she did, she went out of herself to the strength of Christ, attributing all to him. 1 Cor. 15.10. By the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace bestowed upon me was not in vain, but I laboured more abundantly than they all, yet not I but the grace of God, which was with me. Gal. 2.20. I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me, and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 1 Tim. 1.15. Sinners of whom I am chief. Trees with high tops have deep roots.  
Such serve God truly, that conscientiously serve him secretly. Many days of fasts and seeking God we●e in secret by herself, Mat. 6.6. When thou prayest enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut the door, pray to thy father which seethe in secret. And vers. 16, 17. When thou fastest be not as the hypocrites, etc. But so, vers. 18. as that thou appear not to men to fast, but unto thy father which is in secret.  
It is a happy thing to be related to them that are truly godly. How did she pray for her husband and children? Nature helps grace, and grace acts for nature, Rom. 9.2, 3. I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart, and I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ, for my brethren my kinsmen according to the flesh. Rom. 10.1. Brethren my hearts desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they may be saved.  
When we cannot serve God so well as we ought, we should serve him as well as we can, and not omit duties. She was troubled for being so unprepared, yet came to Sacraments and found God very graciously. 2 Chron. 30.18. etc. The good Lord pardon every one that prepareth his heart to seek God, the Lord God of his fathers, though he be not cleansed according to the purification of the Sanctuary, and the Lord harkened to Hezekiah, an healed the people. Cant. 6.12. etc. I went down into the garden of nuts to see the fruits of the valley, and to see whether the vine flourished, and the pomegranates budded, or ever I was ware, my soul made me like the chariots of Aminadab.  
It is good to come to God in Ordinances for particular mercies. She made this and that her special errands, and the Lord vouchsafed them unto her, Job 22.28. Thou shalt also decree a thing and it shall be established unto thee. Psal. 37.4. Delight thyself also in the Lord and he shall give thee the desires of thy heart. Mat. 21.22. and all things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer believing, ye shall receive. 1 Sam. 1.27. For this child I prayed and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him.  
God oft cometh in seasonably to them that wait upon him in Ordinances, as frequently to her in hearing, with suitable and seasonable words, Isa. 30.20, 21. Thine eyes shall see thy teachers, and thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, this is the way walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand and when ye turn to the left. Prov. 8.34. Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.  
Great enjoyments of God in Ordinances, should not take us from them, or make us live above them, but carry us the more to God in and by them. Thus it was with her, the more she received, the more she waited upon God in them. Psal. 63.2. To see thy power and thy beauty as I have seen thee in the Sanctuary. 2 Chron. 30.23. And the whole Assembly took council to keep other seven days, and they kept other seven days with gladness.  
Sacraments are not only sealing, but exhibiting Ordinances, of more grace and comfort to believers, she received much increase from God in and by them. Mat. 3.16. And Jesus when he was ●●p●ized, went up straightway out of the water: and lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and the Spirit of God descended like a dove, and light●● upon him. Acts 8.39. The Eu●●●● after Baptism went away rejoicing. The bread and wine which are the signs in the Lord's Supper, are nourishing.  
The incomes from God in Ordinances are very various, sometimes one, sometimes another, sometimes more, and sometimes less, sometimes sooner, sometimes later, sometimes she ha● melt at the Sacraments, sometimes resolutions to serve God against sin, giving up herself to the Lord; sometimes meekning of her spirit, sometimes desires to come again, sometimes great assurance and comforts, sometimes at the time, sometimes afterward 1 Cor. 3.5, 6. Who then is P●● ●nd who is Apollo? but Ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man. I have planted, Apollo watered, but God g●ve the increase. Isa. 56.7. I will make them joyful in my house of prayer. Act. 10.44. While Peter yet spoke these words, the holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 2 Chron. 1.6. Solomon offered a thousand  offerings vers. 7. In that night did God appear unto Solomon.  
When we have performed duties to the Lord, we are to expect his answers. She would wait for returns, when she had been a seeking of him. Psal. 5.3. I will direct my prayer to thee and will look up. Psal. 85.8. I will hear what God the Lord will speak.  
The Lord sometimes withdraweth from Ordinances, that we should not rest in them but in himself. 2 Cor. 1.9. We had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but 〈◊〉 God which raised the dead. This use she made thereof when she had not altogether these incomes.  
A gracious heart is as mindful of mercies received to return praises and answerable walkings to God, as to pray for mercies wanted. Exod. 17.14. And the Lord said to Moses, writ this for a memorial in a book. Psal. 103.2. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. Psal. 116.12. etc. What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits towards me, I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord, I will pay my vows unto the Lord now, in the presence of all the people. Thus did she note down in a Book the gracious deal of God towards her to quicken her to thankfulness and suitable improvements to the glory of God.  
Temptations and buffet are not to be given way unto, but opposed, to conquer them; Her faith (she said) fought with them, and they were subdued under her. Jam. 4.7. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.  
Afflictions and mercies when improved bring forth much fruit in the people of God, as her sickness and deliverances did in her. Heb. 12.11. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous, nevertheless after-word it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness, unto them which are exercised thereby. Psal. 32.7. Thou art my hiding place, thou shalt preserve me from trouble: thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance.  
God's gracious returns of prayer to his people, do much engage them in affection to him, and encourage them for the future to seek more unto them. O bless the God (saith she, that heareth prayers, and follow God for further mercies. And elsewhere, I desire this great experience should be food for faith. Psal. 116.1, 2. I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice, and my supplications, because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live 2 Cor. 1.10. Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: In whom we trust that he will yet deliver us.  
True grace is permanent and growing, the motion that is natural is perpetual. My God (saith she) doth give me sweet experience of the growth of grace in my soul: The longer she lived the more she acted, Job 17.9. The righteous also shall hold on his way, and he that hath clean hands shall be stronger and stronger. Revelations 2.19. I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works, and the last to be more than the first.    

Mr. Thorowgood's Letter to Mr. Case.  
Reverend Sir,  
I Understand you intent to print your Sermon preached at the funeral of our most honoured friend Mrs. Scot, that Saint of the Lord, that eminent believer of the highest form, and therewith some narrative concerning her. It is not only lawful, but sometimes very expedient to show the Coats and Garments Dorcas made whilst living; especially the excellencies of great believers whose memory is blessed; and which may so much conduce to the advancing of the glory of God's free grace, and the good of others; for which cause no doubt the several graces and holy actings of God's people, are left on holy record. I am willing to cast my mite into the treasury. Her conversion (she told me) was occasioned by a fall from her horse in hunting time, whereby one of her legs were put out of joint, which the Lord so sanctified to her, as it brought her to the serious receiving of the immortal seed of the Word thereby forming Christ in her, in whom the New-birth did most evidently shine ever after. O happy fall, that did so exalt her; before she was very vain, delighting in dancing and hunting; But than God brought her to hear his rod, and to receive instruction, and to solace herself in the joys of the spirit, and to pursue the ways of holiness; thus God did not take away her comforts, but changed them, and gave her better in the room; He did not dry up the stream, but diveried it and turned it into a better channel. It was not long after her conversion from nature unto grace, but she was likely to be perverced from truth unto error, and was much troubled about the way of Separation, some of which way lived near her, and got access to her, and so was in danger of losing on the one side, much of what she had gained on the other; But the gracious God, out of his continuing goodness, (as she told me) proviced Mr. Elmestone, that old disciple, a skilful Pilot to freer her coune again to rights, who can relate more concerning this particular; and ever since through grace, hath she sailed with a full and steady gale in the ways of truth and holiness, and hath been a fired star, in the Church of God, no ways moved with the ermurs, and fall of many round about her, wand'ring on the right hand and on the left; after once God had caused her ears to hear that word behind her, saying, This is the way walk in it, she shunned their books, company and discourses tending that way, as taking no pleasure therein, and would not tempt God, by going to the meetings of such as caused division, being sully persuaded of the truth and way she practised; thus trees by shaking become more firmly stoted. She was converted in the height of Prelacy, and was of the true old Puritan and right Nonconformist's Spirit unto her dying day, accounting our Churches and Ministry essentially true, though wanting in circumstantials, she earnestly desired, and in her place fervently endeavoured a through reformation, without forsaking the Assemblies, and leaving the work to others, but would set to her helping hand also. She went on to perfection, but laid not again foundations; she held what was good, rejecting the ill, being of quick and sound understanding to discern between good and bad; She would mourn with the house of Cloe, for what was beyond her sphere to amend, and walked very comfortably with Christ herself in the midst of the golden Candlesticks, having her own garments undesiled, and others unworthiness did no way prejudice her. She was a very great and constant prizer of the faithful Ministers of Jesus Christ, and rejoiced not in their light for a season, she knew them that were over her in the Lord, and esteemed them very highly in love for their works-sake, and endeavoured peace and unity with the rest. She walked in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless, never missing any when able to go, and much troubled when necessarily detained by illness; she thought not they could be too often enjoyed, when she could not go in her Coach in Winter time, by reason of the deepness of the way between Congherst and the Church, she would walk on foot in all the rainy and tempestuous weather, that long and tedious up and down hill way: (to ride she always dreaded since her fall) and when in London, often did she go from high Holbourn to Christs-Church to the morning Sermons on the Lords days, before the reft began, and then to them afterwards. Constantly did she attend Lectures and Fasts public and privare. In Summer when she was at Congherst, usually there in the Country, she had a weekly Lecture at Howkherst, and the Ministers still at her house. Very often did she keep in secret whole days of fasting and seeking God by herself in prayer, and humbling and afflicting her soul before the Lord. When I was forth she herself would pray with her family; once I coming home late, unknown to her, heard her, and she prayed to my very great admiration and satisfaction. Twice in the family morning and evening, not only prayers were, but something of the word, and singing part of a Psalm: On the Lord's day at noon, singing and praying with the family, besides morning duries, and evening reperitions of the Sermons, together with singing of a Psalm, and Praying. A true sanctifier and spiritual observer of the Lords days she was, and dared not to speak of any worldly civil (though at other times lawful) things, and oft bewailed the too much liberty many professors take on those days, marvailing their consciences were so benumbed concerning that Commandment more than others, that they could talk of such civil and worldly things then without remorse, not considering that Commandment is broken in words & thoughts as well as others, especially when that place in Isa. 58.13. is so express against it, Not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor SPEAKING THINE OWN WORDS, viz. upon the Sabbath days. Besides her privare duties in the family, she was very much in secret duties by herself, daily her usual manner was (as I have been certainly informed) In the mornings as soon as she was up to go into her closet a little while by herself, and then went to the performing of spiritual duties together with the family; after they were done, than she retired into her chamber by herself, and read the Bible in order, reading and meditating about one hour, and then went into her closet afterwards a pretry while. Before supper she used to go into her chamber and closet some competent time, yea though late, when she was necessarily detained abroad before she came home; after duties performed in the family at nights, when the rest were gone to bed, she would walk about half an hour meditating in her chamber, and reasoning out any distemper that was upon her spirit, to find out the cause thereof, and to remove it; saying, so her heart was brought into frame again, and not before; Then she went into her closet about three quarters of an hour, and this every day. She never went abroad but she went first into her closet for some while to prayer, and so she did again upon her returnings home. On the Lords days at noon after duty done in the family, she would retire by herself, till they went to the public worship again; upon the week days she would much complain she was so straitened for time, desiring more to speed in secret by herself. She was a be lever that had not only the graces of the Spirit, but the sealings and the joys of the Spirit in her; She had much assurance, even to the riches of it; She knew she was of God, and Christ was her Redeemer having loved her and given himself for her, and that the Covenant of Grace, with all the promises and mercies therein contained, and Ordinances were hers; And therefore in all places where Providence cast her, would she partake of all the Ordinances, and not infringe her Christian right and liberty, as being tied to one particulat place, or people only, living without the Sacrament till she came there again; though ordinarily she looked upon herself as a member of that Church where her usual dwelling was. She was filled with joy, and walked in the comforts of the holy Ghost, she was of a very cheerful Spirit, and grace did carry it on very graciously and spiritually; she had much communion with God in all the means of grace, the Lord made her joyful in the duties of prayer, the Word was the savour of life unto life unto her, and the rejoicing of her heart. Exceeding incomes she had at the Table of the Lord, there she sat under Christ's shadow with great delight, and his banner over her was love, and his fruit was very sweet unto her taste; whilst the King sat at his table with her, her spikenard did usually send forth the smell thereof. The Lord did grearly bless that Ordinance of his Supper unto her; she said she could ferch from the Lord there, any mercy she wanted, direction in straits, support and comfort in disturbances, power against sin and Satan, grace to carry her on in the ways of God, etc. Much refreshing she had in singing of Psalms, she had many and particular returns of prayers from God, which she much looked up to him for, after she had directed them unto him, and took special notice of his gracious answers, and improved them with thankfulness to his glory. She was of very excellent natural parts, full of wisdom and prudence; as appeared also in the well managing of her many and weighty affairs, and did greatly abound in the knowledge of Divine Mysteries, contained in the Scriptures; Much weaned from and crucified to the world; Whilst her Father Sir Matthew Howland, & her Uncle Sir John Howland lived, she would say (foreseeing the same, as being their only heir) she was afraid of too much of the world coming to her. Never any use or increase would she take for any money's she lent, though to a very considerable sum and time; and left under her own hand, that her children should take none also for the same after her, in case she died before the principal was paid in. Her good works and charity not only Hawkherst, but Holburn also, and other parts can testify, as yourself well know, and can amply relate. Her good works extended not only to her own Nation, but also to the Hungarian Scholars, who come so far to partake of our practical Divinity, counting herself a Member of the same universal Body with them. For divers years, often would she have one of them time after time with her, whilst in the Country; and now did take care of one this Winter, at one of her sons, till next Summer she thought to come again, and retake him into her Family: Their Land, have divers already returned into it, that have caused her piety and liberality to sound amongst them there. She disdained not to visit any of her poorest neighbours, and did love to do it, to raise up pity in her towards wards them, and thankfulness to God for herself, who had made the difference: Neither did she refuse to do the meanest offices of love for the good of them and theirs. Her artery, yourself knows, how grave and modest it was; as also her Daughters, without nakedness, or unseemliness. The gracions Providences of God were exceeding many, and very great and remarkable towards her; wherein she saw much of her Father's care and goodness, which she took special notice of, and was abundantly thankful for, and endeavoured to improve them answerably to his Glory, as appears in her Diary, where she hath kept an account of them, and also of her ways towards her God, as there she often calls him. She was like that virtuous woman your Text spoke of, in her carriages in and toward her Family, ordering and taking care thereof, and them in it; and herself employed about something or other of the same, when she was not in her spiritual converses with the Lord, or taken off by other occasions. She considered well both her husband's estates, and freed them from the incumberances for her children, whom, she much endeavoured to make the children of God, in bringing them up in his nurture and admonition, and keeping divers days of fasts by herself, to seek the Lord for them, in which and divers other respects, they could not but arise and call her blessed, and give we her of the fruit of her hands and let her own work praise her in the gates. As her life, so her death was full of grace and comfort, the Lord strengthened her upon her bed of languishing; and made all her bed in her sickness; when she was walking through the valley, of death she feared no evil, her God was with her, his rod and his staff they comforted her, and ministered to her an entrance abundantly into the everlasting Kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Though her pains and tortures were great (the Physicians applying cupping glasses to her, and lancing her) yet the Lord did comfortably lift up the light of his countenance upon her, and put gladness in her heart, and made her patience have its perfect work, she was full of heaven, breaking forth in expressions of God's goodness to her, saying, God hath been very good to me, how good is God, and how good it is to wait upon God, there hath not the least cloud interposed between God and my soul all this sickness, I will go to my God triumphing. Thus with gladness and rejoicing was she carried to enter into the King's Palace, into the joy of her Lord, where there is fullness of it, and pleasures for evermore. O mark we the perfect, behold we the upright, for the end of such is peace. No marvel that even Balaam in the sense hereof, did so desire to die the death of the righteous, and that his end might be like theirs; and well had he done if he had withal desired his life alike. For ever magnified be my good God, who hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of our habitations, that caused the lines to fall unto me in such a pleasant place, so long even six years in the same family with her, and that I should be chosen and ordained a Pastor to her and the people there at Hawkherst; That ever I was so acquainted with such an eminent, practical experimental, spiritual, stayed believer, abounding so much with the graces, and sealings, and joys of the holy Ghost; That I should have such a taste of that happiness and delight that is in the society of real Saints; How did I live as in a lower heaven, walking as in Paradise, whilst I was there, rejoicing in the goodness of the Lord all the day long, calling the walls salvation, and the gates praise; what sweet experiences of Christ had I frequently communicated to me from her! How greatly did she strengthen my hands in the Lords work in the midst of all the opposition among that people; the righteous God recompense it, and all the work and labour of love, she shown towards his name unto me, into the bosom of he● children seven fold, as likewise al● I found from my much honoured long deceased friend Mr. Scot, he● husband, in his day, whose memory is very precious to me. O unhappy Engagement, that so disengaged us from one another, and that people there: The Lord is righteous, and his ways also mercy and truth, his paths are judgement, a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right, wonderful in counsel, excellent in working; Wisdom and might are his, he changeth time; and seasons making every thing beautiful in them; manifold are his works, in wisdom hath he made and done them all, the earth is full of his riches, whatsoever he pleaseth that doth he in heaven, and in the earth, and in all deep places. We are not to murmur and say, what is the cause the former days were better than these, for we may not wisely inquire concerning this; yet unsensible we should not be of such a loss, and breach as this is, like the sea, who can heal it? whereunto shall I liken and compare it? that such a burning and shining light should go out amongst us, such a fixed star, a star of the first magnitude, should se●● our horizon: How hath the Lord covered those parts with a cloud in his anger, and cast down the beauty of them to the ground? how is the gold become dim, and the most fine gold changed! how is the precious daughter of Zion, and the glory of those parts departed! For these things I weep, mine eye mine eye runneth down with water; Oh that my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night, even with the weeping of Jazer, yea mourn with a great mourning, as the mourning of Hadadrimmon in the valley of Megiddon, for good Josiah, when he was taken away. Oh dolour exprome vires, non sum solito contentus soon, ne● indociles lugere simus, Scotam ●●emus. Ye Ministers of Christ, weep over her, that was such a cordial constant prizer of you. O Weal of Kent, take up a wailing for her, the brightest star in all your firmament is set. O Hawkherst, make a bitter lamentation for her, whose coming among you, was like the rain upon the mown grass, as showers that water the earth. O poor of those parts, and Houlbourn, and elsewhere, set upon the ground and keep silence, cast dust upon your heads, gird yourselves with sackcloth, hang down your heads to the ground, arise cry out in the right, in the beginning of the watches, pour out your hearts like water before the face of the Lord, ●ift up your hands towards him, who hath taken her away from you, that did not with hold you from your desire, nor caused your eyes to fail, that did not eat her morsel herself alone, and you did not eat thereof; that did not see you without covering, or perish for want of clothing: whom your ears have blessed, when heard her, and your eyes have given witness to her, when seen her, and your loins have rejoiced when warmed by her; and ye widows whose hearts she hath made to sing for joy, when she sa● as Queen among the mourners. O Hungarian Scholars, call for the mourning women, and send for cunning women, that they may come, and let them make haste and take up a wailing for you, that your eyes may run down with tears, end your eye lids gush out with water, for a great Patroness of yours is gone. Sir I am not yet out of my amazement by this great and sudden blow, to perceive the end of the Lord. In respect of herself, it is happiness, not suffering her to be longer absent from him here in the body, having with her swift motion finished her course so soon. But why in respect of us, is this Citizen of heaven so soon gone from us? when but somewhat more than in the midst of her days? We may fear a storm coming, when the Father calleth his Children so hastily home; The Lord fit us for the worst of times, and our last hour. When Mr. Scot her husband, that godly and faithful Magistrate died, and soon after, that godly and faithfuull Minister of Christ, in the neighbouring place of Landherst, also died, it was much upon my heart that some evil was a coming, and accordingly was I greatly carried out to preach among my people on Isaiah 57.1. The righteous perisheth and no man layeth it to heart, and merciful men are taken away, none considering they are taken away from the evil to come. And that Lords day it was finished, that very week was that great rising in Kent, in 1648. though I had not the least hint thereof till they were up, which God was pleased notwithstanding in mercy presently to avert. But this is not yet participated, the Lord goeth by me, and I see him not, he passeth on also, and I perceive him not; his way is in the sea, and his path in the great waters, and his footsteps are not known. These wheels within the wheels are not yet manifested; the great thing upon my spirit is, Lord, why hast thou taken away thy faithful and tallent-improving servant, whilst nature was so strong and vigorous in her, thus before her time? Righteous art thou O LORD, when I plead with thee, yet let me talk with thee of thy judgements. We cannot see thy works from the beginning to the end; yet must we believe, though clouds and darkness are round about thee, yet righteousness and judgement are the habitation of thy throne. I know O Lord, thy judgements are right, and thou in faithfulness hast afflicted us: Thy works are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein, thy secret is with them that fear thee; thy way O GOD is in the Sanctuary, and there are thy go to be seen. The good Lord sanctify this great and sore affliction to us, and hereby the more quicken us to the improvement of our time and talents to the utermost, whilst it is day, before our night come, when we also shall cease to work. So prayeth, Sir,  
Yours, affectionately to serve you in Christ. NICOLAS THOROWGOOD. Minister of the Gospel, sometime at Hawkherst, now at Monkton in the Isle of Thanet and County of Kent.   

Mr. Elmstones Letter to Mr. Case.  
Sir,  
I Am persuaded that not only we the friends and acquaintance of this lately deceased Gentlewoman Mrs. Scot, the Paragon of Piety and Christian wisdom, but even strangers that never before heard of her, yea those of the generation to come will con you much thanks, for that your labour, you intent (as by a Letter from Mr. Thorowgood I understand) to hold up her remembrance among the living, though she be dead, that the glory of God's grace (which was in her eminently conspicuous) may thereby be magnified, and she set forth as a lively pattern of piety, by Christian Gentlewomen to be imitated. It will indeed conduce nothing to the advancement of her happy condition, who without sense of what is here done below touching her, to her full satisfaction enjoyeth the beatifical vision of her most dear Saviour Jesus Christ. But it were pity, that such a mirror of God's grace in her, and the splendour of it shining from her, should lie in obscurity, the knowledge whereof might cause many thanksgivings to God for her, and happily kindle in some breast a kindly flame of a godly imitation of her ways. Touching the occasion of her conversion what it was, I perceive that Mr. Thorowgood hath informed you, which I think he could do better than myself, as who living a good while in her family, might hear her often relate it, so that touching that I need to say nothing, save only that so it was, as he writeth, occasioned by a fall from a horse, and the putting of her leg out of joint. The danger whereof put her upon the reading of Books that concerned piety and Religion, whereby it pleased the Lord to work in her some serious sense and care of Religion. But she did no sooner begin to mind matters of Religion, but that some two of that way of the rigid separation called Brownism, and disciples of John Turner, the name of one of which was Scotchford, both living in Cranebrook; by the means of a Tenant unto Glassenbury, living in the Gatehouse took notice of it, and together got access to her, and began to instill into her some of their principles of the separation, and it seems had much shaken her, so that she began to be scrupulous of holding communion with our then Churches, viz. England. It fell out that while they were thus working at times upon her, and she wavering, that in that Festival time of Christ's Nativity, which in such houses was kept with some solemnity of good cheer these Sectaries came to Glassenbury, and after dinner had gotten an opportunity to confer with Mrs. Scot, than Mrs. Roberts, somewhat privately in a Chamber, where yet was present Mrs. Crisp her Aunt, a godly Gentlewoman, now also deceased, and John Morgan a retainer to that family, a very honest man, now also dead; The good Gentlewoman, & the rest were somewhat puzzeled, with the somewhat knottydiscourses of these Sectaries: Now it was so by God's Providence, that I was also at that time, and had been there for some days, invited by Sir Walter Roberts, now deceased to, and his Son, young Mr. Roberts, who, for six years together, at least, had been my Scholar, and boarded in my house; Wereupon it came into that John Morgan's mind, to make a motion to Mrs. Roberts to send for me, and that I should confer with those Sectaries, she did gladly entertain the motion, and they how willingly, I know not, yielded to it, so I coming to them, there we conferred together for some two hours (it may be) before them, about points of Separation, especially about receiving the Sacrament amongst such a confused multitude, as then was the manner, by the iniquity of the times, whether it might lawfully be done, or could be done with any comfort. The issue of our conference was such by the Lord's blessing, that Mrs. Roberts was satisfied about such objections as they made, had her scruples cleared, listened no more to their suggestions, and they being now out of hope of gaining her, left her, so that from thence, she continued her attendance upon the public Ministry, and held in, in the Communion of our Churches as true, though then in many things somewhat corrupt and defective. And this, Sir, is the story of that passage, if you think meet to make use of it, I should be willing that you would not mention me by name, but only say that a Minister being at that time there by Providence, was called in to confer with the Sectaries, and did satisfy Mrs. Roberts. I cannot tell whether a passage or two be much worth the mentioning, but now I am wtiting I have a mind to add them. First while Mrs. Roberts was as a so journer in Glassenbury, summer ended, when they could not walk abroad before supper, in the evenings when it began to be too dark to see how to work, and it was too early to light a candle, it was her custom with her Aunt Mrs. Crisp, and some other young Gentlewomen in the house, Mrs. Crisp her daughters especially, to meet together in some one of their chambers, and sit talking together about an hour or so, till candles were lighted. Their talk it may be was sometimes of civil matters, and such accidents as had fallen out, and come to their hearing; but there was also ever for the most part, somewhat of Religion, in relating what they had read in some good book or other, or what they had sometime heard. I once upon an occasion about such a time stayed at Glassenbury one whole night, and then they called me into their meeting and conference, where they requested me to repeat the heads of a Sermon I had preached abroad not long before, about setting up Idols in the heart, out of Ezekiel the 14. and to pray with them. Next, when the keeping of the house was put over by his Father to Sir Walter Roberts his Lady, who being weak in her intellectuals, and unable to manage the business of the house, Mrs. Roberts then was fain to be governess of the family, and oversee the ways thereof, which was pretty great; In this time she was in some strait how to perform her morning duty of closet prayer to the Lord, she thought that it was meetest that God should be first served, and sought unto, for his blessing all the day after; But it seemeth that the thoughts of household business did interpose, that she performed it not with meet freedom of Spirit: wherefore Mr. Whitfield that faithful Minister of the Lord, who had some relation to the family by his wife, coming there she imparted her doubt to him; who gave her his opinion, that it was the safest way for her first to go down and settle things in the family for the forenoon business, and then to retire herself to her solitary devotion, which she might attend with all freedom of Spirit from household affairs, and without fear of interruption: Besides, if upon her giving the first place to her devotion, if matters in the family had at any time done amiss, it might have turned to some reproach of her religious profession, as making her negligent in that her domestical employment. So sir after much scribbling I have done, if any thing written will be worth the inserting in your intended Narrative, I shall be glad of it, that I have lighted on any thing to celebrate the memory of that gracious Gentlewoman, whose loss I shall feel with others, for want of that encouragement, we had from her in piety, and her respect of us, and so desire to lament it; If not, it is enough, that I have showed my weak desire to contribute somewhat toward her Funeral Obsequies; and so commending you to the safe keeping and love of our good God in Christ, I rest.  
Jan. 31. 1658. Yours in the sincerity of Christian respect, and good affection; JOHN ELMESTONE.   

Mr. Elliston's Letter to Mr. Case.  
Worthily honoured and dearly beloved Friend.  
I Am requested to give in my thoughts and experiences of that pious and precious Saint Mrs. Scot, once shining in our eyes, but now alas extinct, the fragrancy of whose piety was as an ointment poured forth among us. I confess I have delayed it, and had thoughts wholly to have waved it, not, etc. but fearing I might detract from her worth, or eclipse it, and being also conscious to myself of my unworthiness and unfitness to give testimony especially of so eminent a servant of Christ, who alas so oft doubt of mine own interest. This female glory blessed among women, whom God had anointed with the oil of Grace above most of her fellows, was an insatiable worshipper of God in Christ (as was said of the Apostle Paul) much on the wings of heavenly contemplation and meditation was this divine Eagle. She had laid up her treasure there, no marvel then her heart had its tendency thither, ah precious bosom wherein was lodged so much of heaven. Oh how fearful (good soul) was she that the lean kine should eat up the fat, that Martha's part should play the thief to Mary's. Oh how watchful over her heart, calling it slippery and deceitful, saying she had but a little while to keep it, and the reward would pay for her pains urging herself on that ground to a fidelity and constancy in her watch and ward. She carried Mary's Alabaster of precious ointment with her, which she was ready to open and pour out plentifully on others, suiting her savoury discourse according to the conditions of the parties she had converse withal. Oh how cautious was she of giving any offence in her attire, or any other ways, saying she never put on her best attire but she had thoughts of clothing herself with the rich robe of Christ's righteousness, and decking herself with the jewels of his graces. Oh how exact in all her walkings, careful to make strait steps to her feet, looking where she should set her foot before she took it up, that she might tread safely, she was rich in Grace, but poor in Spirit, eminent Grace lodged in a low heart. Poor worthless creature, was frequently in her mouth. She would condescend to converse familiarly with the poorest member of Christ not having the grace of Christ in respect of persons, the ointment of her love fell as well upon the skirts of the garment as on the head; she loved Grace for itself, looking on it as amiable clad in russet, as in velvet, in a poor servant, as well as in her Mistress. As all her delight was in the Saints, so her delight was in all the Saints, she had a heart truly mortified to the world, showed in her contemptuous speeches of it, and the glory thereof. Oh, how beautiful were the feet of Godly Ministers to her, a rare grace in these days. How afraid of the corruptions of the times, of soul poisoning Doctrines, ceasing herself, and persuading others to cease from harkening to the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge. She was a great lover of the Word, of the Sabbaths, very careful as that herself, so those under her charge should carefully prepare for them before they came, so holily to observe it when it was come; A great prizer of all God's Ordinances, and of all opportunities of Grace, which she did husband to the great improvement of soul good. The observation of humbling days was frequent with her, wherein she was very solemn, according to the nature of the duty, and now she reaps abundantly the fruit of her labour. She had a marvellous stomach and spiritual appetite to the Lords Supper, for the which she did solemnly prepare herself, plentifully sequestering herself from the affairs of the world, that she might clean her heart for the acceptable entertainment of her beloved, no question she met with many a precious dole there, who had such a desire to be there. She came down from that mount, as Moses, with a shining face, a heart most warm and lively, speeches savoury and ravishing, refreshed with the comfortable sense and feeling of Christ's love, sweeter than wine, filled, satisfied with marrow and fatness; Christ did frequently then and there manifest himself to her, kiss her, therefore her lips dropped honey, as I myself have experience of it, I bless God for it; Blessed God what a mercy I am deprived of! Oh she was altogether and always lovely. Her grace added much more worth to her then her birth, or any other accomplishment she had; much grace there was in her grace, it looked like itself in her. I never was in her company but I went off with advantage to me, or the fault was my own, I might have learned humility, contempt of the world, to be lively and spiritual, etc. Oh what a pitiful heart had she to the poor, especially of the household of faith, and as she had a tender heart, so a bountiful hand, as she saw occasion, and would oft say, God lent it her for that end, and it was a great mercy to have a heart to it; to lay out for God, is to lay up for ourselves; 'twas her holy ambition to serve God in her generation. She was very spiritual in her affections to her relations, to her dear Lady Mother, and Children, wonderfully troubled at their deviations, and to think that any that come from her should hisse or sting at God's glory, oh that those cares, prayers, tears, fallen into God's bottle, when worldly tears drop besides it, might not (as to any of them) be rendered fruitless. Sir, many of these flowers she had growing in the garden of her heart, her vessel was weak, her grace sound and strong, she had embarked in her those excellencies that would neither sink nor suffer shipwreck. She was rich towards God, here she had a Christ for grace, and now she hath him and heaven with him for glory. She was a Sarah for courage, an Abigail for wisdom, a Mary for choosing the good part, a Dorcas for good works, an Elizabeth for walking in all the commandments and ordinances of God blameless. Sir, if ever I had confidence in the happy estate of any that ever I was acquainted with, it is greatned in reference to her. All that I can say is abundantly below her; my prayer to God is, that God would favour me with the favour that he beared to virtuous Mistress Scot; So shall I be visited I know with his salvation. Sir, I hope you will pardon my defects, when you understand I was necessitated to write this week or not at all, in great haste having much other work on my hands; the rest is the subscribing myself, Sir,  
Sandhurst, Feb. 28. 1658. Your younger brother in Christ, and unworthy fellow labourer in the Lord's vineyard, PETER ELISTON.   

Another Letter of Mr. THOROWGOOD'S. to Mr. Case.  
Reverend Sir,  
SInce my last to you I received further information from a friend, concerning that useful and precious Gentlewoman Mrs. Elizabeth Scot, by way of Narrative, of some other remarkable passages, which were not mentioned in my Letter, which may be worthy imitation, and of singular use to Christians in these declining days, and may tend to the magnifying the glory of God's free grace, shining forth in her conversation; in these following Particulars.  
I. She was much in holy religious Worship and service of God in public, exceeding careful not to lose any public opportunity for the good of her soul, making all ordinary occasions of her own and visits of friends give place, and not to hinder her waiting on God in the public Ministry of his Word. If there were a Lecture she used to go unto, and persons of quality came to visit her, after she had been with them a while, and time was to go, she would look upon it as no incivility to leave them with the Lady her mother, unless they would go with her. I never knew any ordinary visit or visiters detain her from attending the Word of God preached, for almost these nine years which I have lived in her house. She was willing to keep fair Correspondency with all her friends, ●nd to maintain a moral principle of love, where there was no more; but exceeding tired with Lady's discourse at their visits, though I suppose in her presence it was fare better than otherwise. If any business unknown fell out when she was going to the Lecture, unless it would certainly prove prejudicial to her, she would make it stand back and wait till afterward: and this I have frequently known; and she often said, she found Satan very busy to hinder her from laying hold of opportunities, this I believe the whole family can testify with myself.  
II. As she was careful not to omit any public opportunity, so also as careful of private duties, she would be sure not to lose her closet time, where she was frequent and long, even when others were at their rest; I lying in the Chamber over her, have often heard her up at one of the clock in the night or rather morning. The Church hath a great loss of her prayers, many a petition did she put up in her closet, and floods of tea●● did she pour forth, insomuch that her eyes have been sore for some days together (which otherwise were very well) when any calamity hath been upon the Church of God, o● the Lord dishonoured by any nearly related to her, her tears have been so many that I have behold surrowes on her cheeks, and so likewise upon fasting days, she was so con●cienscious in keeping her closet-time, that all her ordinary business did stay till she had done; and when any of her family have gone to her closet door, and told her some would speak with her, or came to visit her; If the business were petty, or only visitors, let them have been who they would, she would stay out her time, knowing the Lady her Mother was below to entertain them; but if the business were of great importance, than she would come; But, to be sure make haste to her closet again. O the sweetness she found in her closet communions! that she would spend so much time there in the forenoons, as that scarce she had time to dress herself; often saying, her dressing time was the worst time of all her time; often bidding her maid make haste, saying, why are you so long, I hate to spend so much time in dressing for this is lost time; and whilst her maid was dressing her, she would be making up Letters, or winding up her watch, or some employment or other, not enduring to stand idle any time in the least measure, though it were but a very little time; She would not (she said) for a great deal spend so much time in dressing as many do, knowing how to spend her time if she had more▪ And saying, I like this fashion well either in her apparel or dressing, that soon could be put on, and take up least time; often charging her maid, to get all things ready against she came to be dressed, saying she could hardly afford herself time to be dressed; yea in the winter evenings would she be long in her closet. She was a diligent reader of the Scripture privately by herself every day. She kept many days of fasts secretly by herself upon many occasions, and for her children: And those days would she set apart for the said fasts, upon which there were some great shows or sights to be seen in the City, as twice she did upon a Lord Mayor's day, the occasion of her fasts falling out on those times of the year, making choice of those days rather than others, because of the vanity of the seasons and profaneness in the City by surfeiting and drunkenness more than at other times; And how full of heaven would she come out of her fasts; How heavenly would she pray in the family those nights! How fervently, how broken hearted in confessions! How heavenlized was she! in so much that the next day she hath wished, she could live without eating or sleeping, to spend that time upon the immediate service of God, such enjoyments of him did she find therein.  
III. As she was much in holy duties public and private, so she was exceeding careful to perform every duty in its season, that one should not justle out another, her private performances, should not hinder her public attendances; and her public service should not infringe her private, and very diligent she was, in not omitting the least duty. God did give her that spiritual art of redeeming and improving time, above thousands of Christians: Her public performances though many, did not abate her one minute of her private.  
iv As she was careful in performing all those duties that concerned herself, so also those concerning her family, resolving with Joshua, that she and hers would serve the Lord. As soon as her children came to any understanding she made them learn the Catechisms, first Mr. wilson's, and Mr. Bal's Catechisms, and from the year 1653. the Assemblies lesser Catechism, and God did so bless her endeavours, that when her children were very young, yet could they soon give her an account of their whole Catechism without book; and as soon as any of them could read, she caused them diligently to read and would exercise their memories by calling them to an account of what they could remember of that they had read in the Bible or other good Books, and of what they had heard when they had been at Church; and it was wonderful to hear what a large account they would give of what they remembered: Surely God did much bless her prayers for them, else I know not how possibly they could do so: She would make all children pray privately by themselves before they went to bed, and in the mornings when they did rise. Also she would instruct in repetitions of what they could remember, what had been preached, telling them oft they must give account to God of their time, and what they had read and heard, exhorting them to walk in the ways of God, when she should not be; by setting before them the good to be found in God's service, and the miseries that would fall on them if they walked not in his ways, She would not keep any servant that was profanely wicked, saying she would not have such, if they would give her their service: she would have no servant of an erroneous opinion; I have heard her several times say, she would rather have those, that were profane then such, because there is little hope of convincing the erroneous, but more hope to convince the profane: she was very willing her servants should go to Lectures and to the fasts, at the end of the morning exercises which were once a month; she would afford them time, and encourage them to go to them, and if she had a servant that could not read, she would cause her children to teach such, and herself also would do it as she could spare time to encourage them, and buy books for them.  
V I shall give an account of the method of her duties, and every day's work. First, in the morning as she did rise, before she was off her bed, she made her children give her an account at her bed's side, of their Catechisms in course, one, one morning, and another another, when they were so large in their accounts as she could hear but one a time; when she was off her bed, she went to her closet for some time, then afterward she had refreshed herself with something, she would perform family duties with the family, when she had no Chaplain, in reading something of the Word, and prayer; Then she would use some little exercise she could find best for her health, which should not be long, and so to her closet again, reading the Scripture by herself, and spending the rest of the forenoon, unless some great occasions called her off till about eleven a clock, when she came out, and while she was making up her own bed (which she did every day, except the Lords days, for her exercise) she would cause her children to read the Scriptures, one one morning, and another another, and as they read she would ask them, what they understood by such a place, instructing them as they read; if a place where some judgements were denounced against sin or a sinner, she would say, see what cause you have not to sin, and what you must look for if you do so, exhorting them from every such place. By that time she had done and was dressed it was well nigh dinner time; in the winter time, she loved not to come out of her chamber before dinner was at table, because the forenoons were so short, unless some business more than ordinary had called her away. In summer time, sometimes she would walk a little before dinner in Lincolns-Inne-fields, and twenty to one if she had not found an object of charity to scatter her benevolence upon, before she came in again: after dinner, after some little space, to her closet again, where she was sometimes longer and sometimes shorter as her occasions would permit; if that afternoon she went to a Lecture, or to visit friends, she would be sure to go into her closet before she went out of doors, and when she came home to her closet again for some time; then when she was undressed and in her night garments, that was the time of her meditation, when she would walk sometimes an hour, or until it drew near to suppertime, and so to her closet again till supper was ready, after supper, she would walk again till the servants had supped, and then called them in to family duties together with singing of a Psalm; after the same were ended, and she discoursed sometime with the Lady her Mother, she would go to her chamber, where she would walk for some time, and so to her closet where then she spent much time, so long as at the soon it would be one of the clock before she went to bed; oftentimes would she be up till one of the clock in the morning, and manytimes the Bellman would cry in the streets, two a clock in the morning, and she no more than a bed, and not a sleep, ask her maid, if that were the Bellman. I verily believe there was no shop, keeper more diligent in keeping his shop, than she her closet; O what a trade did she drive for heaven! she was one that made Religion her business indeed. Upon the Lords days, she would be up somewhat earlier than on other days, though later up on the Saturday nights; and if in London, in the summertime, she would go to the morning Sermons at seven of the clock, if the weather were good, and then to the rest; She was full of heaven in all her discourses on the Lords days, she was one as in Isa. 58.13. that did turn away her foot from the Sabbath, from doing her pleasure on Gods holy day, and called the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honourable, honouring him, not doing her own ways, not finding her own pleasure, nor speaking her own words; all her discourse at table dinner and supper, and every where those days, should be heavenly, and speaking of what was taught those days, not a word would come from her unsuitable to the day. I verily believe if one had been set to watch her all those days long, he should not have trapped her in one word unsuitable to the day; if any thing had displeased her, she would not have been displeased on those days. On Lords-dayes-nights when she was come from Church, and undressing herself, her children gave her an account of what they had heard at Church, and what such had read, as stayed at home and could not go; and those of her children she could not hear then, she would call to account while the servants were at supper, and afterward the family to duty, and repeated amongst them what she had written at Church those days; This last year she caused her eldest daughter Mrs. Frances Scot, to repeat in the family, being able also to write; After repetition, a Psalm they sung and then she herself prayed; in which duty, as she was heavenly, so longer than other nights; the Lord did not only give her the grace and spirit of prayer, but also a great gift in prayer: And as she was one of great gifts and parts, so very humble, her parts did no way puff her up or cause her to go out of her sphere in the least, one of her Chaplains did much urge her in the Country (where she commonly had one in her house) to hear her pray, but at no hand would she do it, this by the way: After duty done in the family, she went again to her chamber, and so to her closet, & would be there somewhat longer than other nights and take her bedtime the monday mornings, indeed it would be morning, before she went to bed. Her usual Lecture days at London, every week, were Tuesday's at Clements, Wednesdays Mr. Jenkins at Blackfriar, in the forenoon, and if she could have time in the afternoon Mr. Calamy's at Aldermanburic; before Mr. Jenkins Lecture was at Blackfriar, she was constantly at Aldermanburic; Thursdays at Dunston's in Fleetstreet, to hear Mr. Manton, or at Mr. Case's Lecture at Martin's in the fields, and saturdays at Gregory's in the afternoons, besides the morning exercises when they were near.  
VI As she did lay out herself and time in the service of God, so also the greatest part of her estate, laying up little here; her layings out, were more than her layings up: she was heaping up her treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consume, nor thief break through and steal, how did she scatter her benevolence every day! and so as her left hand knew not what her right hand did. Much money did she cast into the poors basin at Fasts, and at those fasts once a month at the morning exercise, the keeping of which she omitted not, though many times not well; at other private fasts she gave very much; there was seldom a week in the winter time, but she was called to a private fast for particular persons in some great affliction, many weeks she hath been known to have been twice a week at those extraordinary duties, to the performance of which she would be sure to make all ordinary businesses and visits of friends give place; some weeks it hath been known she hath been at 3 fasts a week, at which fasts she gave the more, knowing it would be given to the godly poor, and being winter time, and the harder with them; which scatter would arise to no small sum in a year if they could be known how much they were. Sometimes it hath been observed and sometimes could not, at the least it hath been observed to have been 2 shillings a time; at the more private fasts she would give more: In her going to those fasts, if she thought the farness of the way would weaken her strength, which she kept for the duties, she would send for a Coach; at nights if fair, she would often come home on foot, both for her health's sake, and to give the more to the poor; saying many might think, she went on foot out of covetousness, but they would be much mistaken; and when she came home from those fasts, what shift would she make to steal up to her chamber by the door of the room, where such as came to visit, were, that she might not be detained from her closet duty's. But to return to her charity every day, how did she scatter her bounty among the poor! not to such as made a trade of begging, though they used never so moving expressions, knowing they were profane, and would take no other course of life, from such she would receive many a hard word, when they saw her give to others and not to them, and her servant hath been fain to defend her sometimes from their affronting her, by not giving her way enough to pass. Now as she walked London streets, she would carefully observe, if she could see any poor old people, whom she would call to her, or command her servant to go and call them to her; and would ask them if they were very poor, and if they were careful to serve God, and did go to Church, and what hopes they had to be saved, to which they would answer as they were able, and some would say, I bless God Mistress I am not so poor, but the Lord doth provide for me, that I am not driven to beg, nor extremely want, to whom she would then give; if she had been in haste, and gone by any poor people, and saw they did not beg she would send her servant sometimes with something to them, whilst she kept on her way: She would not walk London streets long but one or other would come to her begging for an alms, and she would ask her servant if he knew them to be common beggars, if he thought no, she would be sure to give. At Lectures, if she saw any that were old or in poor habit attending the word, than she would be sure to give them. In cold seasons when it was hard with poor people she would be always a speaking of the sufferings of the poor, that had no fire, or scarce any bread, much sympathising with them, ask her servant if he knew any that it went hard with, that she might relieve them, sending her benevolence: her charity was so well known, that seldom a day, if at home, but she had petitions from one or other for the same, many under the notion of distressed Ministers, because they knew they should receive the greater alms, and that they might be sure not to miss of the same, they would get a testimonial of their godly lives, sufferings, and necessities, with the names of some godly Ministers, she knew or had heard of, and then hath she given the more, when she thought their condition real, but give it so privately herself, as none should know how much but the receivers. None that came with petitions did go away without alms, unless she had known they had come the second time, having been relieved before: many a time have her servants gone up to her chamber, or when she was at dinner, with a paper or petition (they knowing when best to find her at home) she would ask them if they knew them fit objects of charity, but let the answer be I or no, she would send them down something if she could not go down herself, saying, she would rather give to them that had no need, then send one empty away that had; sending them down word, if they had counterfeited other men's names, they would very much wrong themselves (as sometimes we could perceive they abused her charity, and grew so subtle, that they would indite Letters punctually to her by name, they having their alms according to their demerit.) Her charity was exceeding much amongst all the poor people at Hawkherst in Kent, where her house was, where she was many summers since she used to be in London the winters, they have all cause to remember how many have had relief at her door; Seldom a Lords day but eighteen had relief there, she would exhort those poor to serve God, and ask them if they had been at Church those days, and if they had not they should have nothing; which caused some of them to go the oftener, for they would be sure to tell one of another, and not a day in the week, but many of them came and had relief at noon and at nights. Sir, more I could relate but Mr. Case spoke of them in his Sermon, and therefore shall proceed no further in these particulars, wherein also it may be well said, She exceeded many daughters that have done virtuously.  
It pleased the Lord to fill her concluding days with many troubles, and abundance of business, it was wonderful the trouble and the many businesses she had, and how cheerfully she went through them, and how eminently the Lord appeared to be with her in carrying her through all, and making whatsoever she took in hand to prosper. Since she came out of the country last, she scarce had any time to visit her friends, this winter which I never knew before, but spending her time much with God. Indeed her life was a continual motion never idle in the least, either in her closet, or with her family in performing religious duties, or reading, or writing, or going to Lectures and fasts, or giving instructions concerning household affairs, she being now house-keepper in London also as well as in the Country, to ease the Lady her Mother in her ancient years, which she did never before in London, though always in the Country, till this last winter.  
O what a loss hath her friends, yea what a loss hath the Church of God, and hundreds of poor people, whose bowels she refreshed; But now she is gone before, where her soul long desired to be. The Lord help us to make after, and not to wish for her again or that she had not died. Why should we be so foolish, it will not avail; and why so sinful and so impudent, as to contradict God, he saw it best to remove her hence, and why should we wish her back again, she is triumphing in heaven over the world, sin and Satan, singing Alleluja unto Him that sitteth on the Throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. She is among the spirits of just men made perfect, and the innumerable company of holy angels, and with the great God the judge of all, and with the blessed Jesus the Mediator of the new Covenant, and with the holy Ghost the Comforter, in the large fruition of the beatifical vision, where is fullness of joy and pleasures for evermore, and why should I wish her from such glorious company, and transcendent bliss, as never eye hath seen, nor ear heard, neither hath entered into the heart of man; to which mercy's the Lord in his due time bring us by the merits of his dear Son and our Saviour Jesus Christ.  
Sir, These six Heads which I have here sent you, are what my friend writ, who hath known her many years.  
Yours, affectionately to serve you in Christ, NICOLAS THOROWGOOD.   
FINIS.   

Errata.  
Pag. 79. lin. 19 for Landherst, r. Sandherst. p. 118. l. 12. deal comma after shop.