VOX SOLIS: OR, An ASTROLOGICAL DISCOURSE OF The great ECLIPSE of the SUN, which happened on June 22. 1666. in 10 deg. of the Watery sign Cancer. SHOWING What EFFECTS may most probably attend it, AND Unto what Persons, Kingdoms and Countries, they are chief Directed. By JOHN GADBURY, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. With Allowance. Intended to have been published in his Ephemeris for this present year 1667. but prevented by reason of the late terrible Conflagration of London. Sol & Luna, post Deum, omnium viventium vita sunt. Hermes. digram of a solar ecclipse North East West South London, Printed by James Cotterel, for Eliz. Calvert, at the sign of the Black Spread-Eagle in Duck-lane. MDCLXVII. To the TRULY LEARNED, And most WORTHILY ACCOMPLISHED, Elias Ashmole, Of the Middle-Temple, Esq; Windsor-Herald, controller of the Excise, and Keeper of the Medals and Antiquities belonging to his sacred Majesty King CHARLES the Second, etc. Most honoured Sir! THe Astrologers of this Age and Island, swarm to You, as their Patron, (for shelter and protection of Themselves and Books) as Bees to their Hive. It is an Argument of true Sapience (I confess) to lodge the choicest Jewels, in the Noblest Cabinets: And the Worthiest Sciences, far always best, with the most Honourable Maecenas. Such Policy I approve of, and (although, at some times, (by reason of Tortuous interposures) I could not, yet) shall now, follow. For, when after-Ages shall understand, that I have made, not the meanest Additions to this Celestial Study; It may reasonably put them into Admiration, if not Astonishment, not to find me, set within some convenient distance of your honourable Acquaintance and Favour. 'Tis true, in the twilight of Great Britain's hope, and Restauration by his Sacred Majesty, [when it was a Crime, either to be known Loyal, or to own any one of that (then-despised) inclination and Judgement] I, with another, did present unto You, An Emendation of the Learned Hartgil 's Astronomical Tables; which Book, You were pleased generously, not only to accept, and approve of, but nobly to encourage us, to a farther Enquiry into the Mysteries of that Science we had then espoused. But singly, have I never yet paid my Acknowledgements, or the honour I own, unto your exquisite Skill in all Mathematical, Hermetical, and Physical Learning; your eminent acquaintance with the Constitutions, Customs, and Manners of our own, and foreign Nations; your Admirable Knowledge in the Law, Heraldry, etc. as also, in all Politics and Ethics: Be pleased (learned Sir) to accept it here. I disdain to make you Patron of my Gall and Rudeness, as some (without a Blush) have lately done: or yet, to play the Parasite with You, and propound a Gain to myself, by this Undertaking. No: my Dedication of these few Sheets of Paper, proceeds (ex intimis Medullis) not from a Spurious, but Legitimate honour and affection, and a desire to let the Learned, in times to come, know, That no Artist in this Age, had a more Cordial esteem for You, and your incomparable Virtues; or, could more readily acknowledge, your continued, and often-reiterated Favours, to the ingenious Students in all Learning, than He, who assumes the boldness, (and accounts it his greatest Glory) to entitle himself (Honoured Sir) Your most humble, and most obliged Servant, JOHN GADBURY. To the READER. THe Heavens of late years, have not been laden with more various Causes, and Monitors of ensuing Mischiefs, than the Earth hath been burdened with suitable Effects. No sooner have we been quit of one Evil, but our Ears have been terrified with the noise of another's approach; like that of Job's messengers. Poor Europe hath laboured under many of Israel's heavy Judgements; perhaps, deserved them as much as she; for her Hypocrisy, Pride, Rebellion, etc. And the two thundering Verses in Deuteronomie, Chap. 28. v. 21, 22. have been notably fulfilled unto (almost) all the several Kingdoms and Countries therein: Faciet Jehova ut adhaerescat tibi Pestis, donec consumpserit te ex ea terra quo tu venturus es ad possidendam eam jure haereditario. Percutiet te Jehova tabe, calidaque, & aestuante ac adurente Febre, & siccitate & uridine, & morbo regio; quae persequuntur te donec pereas. The late Sufferings of this Western part of the world, do eminently English the most of the Latin: We have been smitten with the Pestilence to purpose; as also, with the Consumption, and Fever; with the Sword, and extreme Burning: yea, a different, and (perhaps) more dreadful Burning, then that mentioned in the Text. God of his mercy grant, we be not pursued with Blasting and Mildew too, to make up the compliment of our punishments, which doubtless are the just rewards of our Sins. A Learned * Dr. Gell, in a Sermon entitled, Noah's flood returning, p. 15. Preacher observing the vicious inclinations of the men of this Age (some years since) parallels us with Sodom, thus: They of Sodom prefigured the men of this unclean generation; and must not we expect a like Judgement unto that of Sodom? And (when we call to mind the late strange providences) we may for ever hereafter believe it, for a divine and infallible Truth, That like Sins, have like Punishments. But there is hopes of a tree, (though cut down) that it may sprout again! and I have a more-then-ordinary reason to believe, (and I hope I do not deceive myself therein) that England's afflictions are near their period: and can therefore with the more confidence, add this word of Comfort unto it, That the Famine, threatened by the late Solar Delinquium, is not likely to prove the tithe so sharp and cruel unto this Kingdom, as unto many other Kingdoms and Countries in this part of the world. [Jupiter is in Aries.] Yet I cannot say, that we shall be totally free, from the talons of that black and dreadful enemy. Deus avertat. So prayeth, the earnest Implorer of England's peace and prosperity, Jo. Gadbury. Brick-Court, near Deans yard Westminster, March 14. 1666/ 7. A DISCOURSE Of the SUN'S ECLIPSE Which happened on June 22. last past, in the morning. IN my Ephemeris for. this present year 1666, I declared to the World my resolution to publish a Treatise of this great Solar Eclipse: which promise I had (according to engagement) discharged in my DIARY for the ensuing year 1667. having much enlarged the same, and obtained Licence, thereof, for that very end and purpose. But the late dreadful Conflagration happening to London, wrought so great a destruction among the Stationers and Printers in that City, (they suffering the most by the Tyrannical Flames, of any one Society whatsoever) that I was constrained to reduce my Annual Book to its old number of Sheets, and reserve my Discourse of the Eclipse to be printed apart by self. And conceiving it to be of convenient Caution and Consequence, not only to England, but other parts of Europe, etc. I thought it proper, rather than stifle it, (after so much pains) to print it. For although the Eclipse itself be over, its effects are to come; and may continue among us (if Astrology fail me not, as seldom it doth) these two years yet: (of which more anon.) I therefore presume this short Tractate will not appear like an unfortunate Guest, (post Festum) after the Table is cleared; but very opportunely, for the Information and Advantage of such as are thereby concerned. I need not (for an Exordium) acquaint you, that Eclipses have been always attended with Astonishing Effects; or that at the sight of them, whole Armies have been smitten with amazement, fear, and horror: or of the scorching Summers, unkind Winters, destructions of Countries, ruins of Cities and Towns, the death of Kings and Great persons, alterations of Governments, change of Laws, etc. that commonly accompany them. All these things I shall (at present) pretermit, and come to the Discourse intended; which I will consider, First, Astronomically. Secondly, Astrologically. In the Astronomical part, I shall first take notice of some Notable Observations that have been made of this Eclipse, by several eminent persons in different places; which I shall exhibit in the following Tabular form. This Eclipse was observed in the following places. June 22. in the morning, 1666. At London. In Paris. At Madrid. In Southampton Near York. At Oxford. H.M. H.M. H.M. H.M. H.M. H.M. Beginning at 5 43 5 45 5 0 5 25 5 34 5 27 The Middle of it 6 15 6 42 6 2 6 22 6 32 6 23 End thereof 7 37 7 43 7 5 7 23 7 30 7 24 Total Duration 1 54 1 58 2 5 1 58 1 56 1 57 Digits Eclipsed 7 4 7 50 7 46 7 22 7 18 7 15 The Reader need not much to wonder at the Differences of these Observations, if he do but consider they were taken in several places, where the Pole hath a different Elevation; and that the Parallax might materially differ. Yet it seems a little strange, that there should be less difference between those Observations made at London and Paris, then betwixt them made at London, and those at Southampton and Oxford. But the Error thereof may be occasioned from the imperfection of the Instruments the Artists made use of; or else, for want of Exactness in the observers themselves: it being easier (in any thing) to be overtaken by Errors and Mistakes, then to keep pace with Truth and Certainty; chief, in Astronomical Observations. With the most concurrent of these Observations, do the Rudolphine and Philolaick Tables agree; so also do those of my loving friend Mr. V Wing, and our Countryman Mr. Jeremy Shackerly. The Ricciolan and Lansbergian, etc. are found to differ much, both in the beginning, continuation, termination, and obscuration of this eminent and famous Eclipse. But next unto the safest Observations, do I prefer Mr. Wings Tables, where you will find this Solar deliquium ho. min. sec. To begin at 17.28.0. June 21. P.M. The visible Conjunction at 18.22.38. Middle of the Eclipse at 18.24.48. The End of it at 19.26.4. Total Duration 1.58.4. Digits Eclipsed 7.25.14. This premised, I shall in the next place consider (with Ptolemy) how many hours there are (on the day of the Defect) between Sunrising and the middle-time of the Eclipse; unto which Astrologers always erect their Figure of heaven. For take notice (saith the same Author) how many hours the Sun is Eclipsed, for so many years shall be the duration of his Effect. Sun rises at 4 a clock in the morning. Interval between Sunrising and the Middle of the Eclipse is 2 ho. 25 min. o sec. The Duration, according to the best Observations, and Mr. Wings Tables, is 1 ho. 58 min. o sec. This obtained, I work by this Analogy: As the length of the day on which the Eclipse happens, is to 365 days: so the interval between Sunrising and the Middle of the Eclipse, is to the time ere its Effects begin to show themselves. Demonstration. Length of the day 16 ho. 20 min. or 1080 m. 30334237 365 days, or one year, 25622929 Interval between Sunrising and the Middle of the Eclipse is 2 ho. 25 min. or 145 min. 21613680 The sum is 47236609 Time ere the Effects begin, 49 days. 16902372 Which 49 days numbered from the day of the Eclipse, viz. June 22. the Effects thereof initiate, or first begin to show themselves, on the tenth day of August following. Now for the Continuation of the Effects, that is known from the Duration, which is two hours ferè; Ergo, they will continue in force near two years from the time they first commence, viz. from August, anno 1666. until July, anno 1668. Thus much may serve for the Mathematical part: now I come to the Astrological. And therein I shall first present you with the Figure of heaven erected to the Middle-time of this famous Eclipse, in the following form and shape; and afterward with the genuine signification thereof. Longit. Solis ♋ 10 d. 23 m. Asoention Recta Solis 101. 18 Temporis 276. 15 Med. Coeli sine Cir. 17. 33 Huc adde pro primo domo 90. 0 Summa totius addenda 107. 33 Ascentio Obliqua primae domus Thema Coelicum Eclipse Solaris, 1666 D.H.M. Mens. Junii, 21.18.25. P.M. Sub Lat. 51 deg. 32 mi. ☽ à [] ♂ add ☍ ♄. 17 deg. 33 min. 107 deg. 33 min. 107 deg. 33 min. 🜃 5.10. ☉ ☽ 10.23. ☿ 19.23 Aldebaran. ♊. 31. ♈ 19.2. Eridanus. ♃ 28.8. ♓ 20. ♋ 14. ♀ 28.41. ♌ 9.16. ☋ 9.16. Cor Leonis. ♍ 0. ♍ 20. ♂ 7.25. Spica Virg. ♎ 19.2. ♐ 3. ☋ 5.10. ♄ 17.54. ℞ ♑ 14. ♒ 9.16. ♓ 0. ♃ 28.8. ♓ 20. chart showing solar ecclipse The Fortitudes and Debilities of the Planets in this Eclipse. ☉ is weak by 6 Testimonies. ♄ is strong by 3 Testimonies. ♃ is strong by 19 Testimonies. ♂ is strong by 6 Testimonies. ♀ is strong by 16 Testimonies. ☿ is strong by 21 Testimonies. ☽ is strong by 13 Testimonies. Hence it appears, that Mercury and Jupiter are Lords of this Eclipse, as having the greatest number of Testimonies in strength: the Sun (the Luminary eclipsed) is weak by 6 Arguments, and hath not one Fortitude either Essential or Accidental to assist him. Judicium Astrologicum. IN this Elliptical Figure, the Regal and fiery sign Leo ascends the Horoscope, and the Sun (the Dominator of that sign, and Luminary eclipsed) is posited in Cancer, a Cardinal-Tropical-Feminine sign, movable and watery. As if many matters or things of most eminent note, that for divers ages passed have been flourishing, fixed, or stative, are by this Solar Deliquium, portended subject to a strange kind of instability, inconstancy, and fluctuation: and this most apparent in Islands, and among such Nations or People as are surrounded with, or chief live and inhabit by, and upon the Sea. The sign wherein the Defect happens, is the Horoscope of Holland, and the nest of the United Provinces, the Seignory of Venice, Scotland, etc. and they may assure themselves they are concerned therein: of which more shall be said anon. It is the Moon, the lesser light, (or rather, a body that is opake, and hath no innate light at all) that thus Eclipseth the Sun, the Royal Lamp of heaven; the glorious Fountain of Light, from whence she herself receives illumination. I hope and pray, That no actions of Ingratitude, correspondent to so unusual an Eclipse, may appear, or be perpetrated in any part of this our European world. The Moon Eclipseth the Sun, in her own dignities; in a place, where she hath power to triumph and tyrannize to purpose. The Sun (say Astrologers) signifies, the most illustrious and glorious, of Persons and Things: the Moon, the basest, and most-to-be-contemned and despised. I could acquaint you with many such kind of Eclipses, both of former and later times; and with the tristitious attendants of them: but I would not be thought Dolores renovare, to renew old Sorrows, or awake the sleeping Errors of either our own, or any other Kingdom or Nation. A Signo deliquii sumitur judicium generis rerum afficiciendorum. Astrologers in giving Judgements upon the defects of the Luminaries, say, That the Effects of them shall fall principally upon those kinds of men or things, which are signified by the sign wherein the Eclipse happens. Eclipse Salis in ♋, ♏ aut ♓ obscurae, turbae ignobilisque plebeculae interitus, diuturnae bellorum, seditiones, & aquatilium marinorumque & aliorum in aequore degentium magna pernicies. Procl. The sign wherein this famous Eclipse is celebrated (as you have already heard) is Cardinal-Moveable-Watery, and Feminine. The learned Proclus saith, An Eclipse of the Sun in the Watery Triplicity (chief the diguities of the Moon, she having signification of the Popular multitude) denotes a rot or consumption of the vulgar sort of people, many rumours and discontents, great Seditions, Mutinies, and expectations of Wars; a destruction of Waterfowl, and death of Fishes; great Inundations, and overflowings of Sea-banks, drowning of many places; with many great and unheard-of mischiefs, acted and done by and upon the Waters. In secundo Decano, stuvios & fontes exsiccat, incontinentiam, & petulantium mortalibus intentar. Procl. And as very much damage and prejudice to some people, parts or places, is probable to happen, by or upon the Waters, etc. so also it is very likely to fall out unto others, by reason of a want or searcity of Waters. And so saith the same Author, in these words;— When the Sun shall suffer an Eclipse in the second Decanate of Cancer, Fountains and Rivers shall be dried up, and there will be a great want of waters; mach incontinency among men and women doth also succeed; and a great deal of fraud, circumvention and deceit will be practised. But now, as this eminent Eclipse falls in a sign of the Watery Triplicity; so it happens in a Cardinal Tropical sign likewise. And all Astrologers consent, that Eclipses in Aequinoctial and Tropical (which are the only Cardinal) signs, are of the must eminent concernment unto this terrene Globe, and pour down their influences upon it the most forcibly and violently. Aequinoctia signa & Tropica turbulentiora & populariora dicimus, & generaliter significant rerum Civilium mutationem, saith one: (id est) We find by experience, that your Tropical and Equinoctial signs are more violent, turbulent, and popular, then are any of the other parts of the Zodiac; and Eclipses, great Conjunctions, Comets, etc. happening in any of them, are the most remarkable in their effects. The reason hereof is near at hand: the greatest and most noble of actions and things (be they Ecclesiastical or Civil) are dependant upon Cardinal or Tropical signs; they are the Hinges or Axis upon which the most weighty and illustrious Persons or Matters (either of Universal or Particular, Public or Private concernment) move or turn. And when an Eclipse, Comet, or other Celestial Phaenomena happens therein, such things, or persons, most naturally and principally are designed to share in their Influences. We have instances familiar enough, in the common vicissitudes of the Wether, of the great verity hereof. For when any grand Satellitium, Conjunction, Opposition, or Quadrate Aspect of the Planets happens to be in Cardinal Signs, the Air is more than ordinarily perturbed; as we saw it in the Effects of the Quadrate of Sol and Saturn, on March 30. this year, and upon the Opposition of the Sun and Saturn on June 29. following; as also, upon the Quadrate of Sol and Saturn on September 27. after that: these Aspects all happening in Cardinal Signs; as may be seen by the Ephemerideses. We know also, that persons born under Cardinal Signs, are more vigorous, active, and (I was about to say) violent, then others: as to instance in the late King of Sweden, Carolus Gustavus; Oliver Cromwell; the present Emperor of Turkey; cum multis aliis, of former and later times. We could prove likewise, that those Kingdoms, etc. whose Ascendants are Cardinal Signs, are more spirituous, courageous, active, furious, mutable, and inconstant, then are other Kingdoms, whose Horoscopes are in other parts of the Zodiac; as Germany, Polonia, France, Saxony, Alsatia, Holland, Denmark, and England too; for that is under Aries, and hath been subject (the more is the pity) to mutability and inconstancy as much as any other Nation whatever. But to pass by this little Digression: not only the Eclipse is in a Cardinal Sign, but at the time of the defect, the two infortunate Stars (so called by reason of their intemperate natures and qualities, and the malignant Effects they are always by experience known to send among mortals) Saturn and Mars, do obviate the Luminaries from Cardinal Signs; thereby making the darkness much blacker in its effects, than otherwise it would be. And these two Planets do not only conspire against the Sun, (the Luminary suffering) and the Moon, the Agent in this Deliquium; but cross and square each other, and that (in some respects) maliciously. As if they intimated some more than ordinary mischiefs, and alterations to be (under the influence of this Eclipse) hatching and contriving (either in Italy, Holland, or some other parts beyond the Seas;) which when brought to pass, the Projectors themselves (Saturn and Mars) by contending with each other, will but make room for the advancement and promotion of some yet-unexpected and unthought-of person or interest. Mercury sits and smiles at the forward folly, and rash adventures of the other Planets: Planeta qui est in undecima domo, altior est illo qui in 9, 6, aut 3 est. Haly. Mercurius dominus deli, seven generaliter quidem in illius stellae naturam se insinuat, atque convertitur, cum qua fuerit configuratus, etc. Ptol. l. 2. C. 8. Apotel. 'tis he that is the strongest Planet in the Figure, and of all most nobly placed in the Heavens. A Planet in the eleventh house (saith Haly) is higher than one in the ninth, sixth, or third: And able (therefore) to attempt and compass nobler things than he. The nimble Planet Mercury being Lord of an Eclipse, generally assumes the nature of that Planet with whom he is configurated. Howbeit, as he is the Author of quick and violent motion, so he intimates celerity in humane actions, affairs, and concernments; irritates much cunning, craft, and subtlety, lying and deceit, perjury, etc. much robbing both at Sea and Land; makes much controversy in the Customs and Laws of Nations, alterations of old Privileges, Charters, or Corporations; many Lawsuits and unappeasable differences he promotes. In the Air (he being cold and dry, and mostly near the Sun) he generates high and blustering winds, great tempests, thunders and hightnings, sometimes earth quakes, etc. Heresies and Schisms get ground under his Regency, (Europe has no need of that) and a race of people usually appear, that will contemn Ceremonies, and throw dirt in the face of all Religious Worship: he also denotes depopulations, and a destruction of things useful for the support of humane life; and hinders the growth of vegetables: he stirs up diseases of siccity, as Consumption, Ptisick, Fevers, etc. These are the natural significations of Mercury, as Lord of an Eclipse: but as he is in Aspect of Jupiter, (though it be by a Quadrate) it is to be hoped that his effects will meet with some abatement; but much I cannot promise myself, because Jupiter is just leaving Pisces, and nearly in Opposition of Mars in this Elliptical Figure: yet somewhat he will perform, by virtue of his own benific nature, and of his having rule in this great Deliquium, next unto Mercury, whose effects I have at large related. And not only Mercury hath signification of the aforesaid distempers, but the Eclipse in general is the forerunner of many tedious and durable infirmities that shall afflict the persons of men and women: Saturn is in Capricorn in the sixth house, (of the Greeks called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, from the great infelicity and unhappiness which diseases bring to mankind; they being the envious opposites unto health, which is the greatest blessing in the world, and most of all to be coveted!) and there powerful to do mischief: Mars also is Lord of that Angle by Exaltation, and (being in reception and Quartile of Saturn) shall in part design the diseases portended, viz. the Calenture, Jaundice, Imposthumes, Madness, Pestilence, Pox, Botches, Inflammations, etc. Wherefore, by reason of his violence and destructive poisonous qualities, he is much to be feared. Cave iram Martis: we ought, when in a Figure of an Eclipse we find Mars in a position apt for the promoting of mischiefs, to beware of his raging and thundering threats. It is the opinion of Hermes, Aphor. 90. that Saturn performs evil more slowly, but Mars more swift: and Mars is therefore (saith he) observed to hurt more than Saturn. Most sure I am, that although Mars, in regard of his velocity and heat, hurts more, (that is, more furiously and ragingly) than Saturn doth; yet is Saturn (as I before urged) the author and procurer of the most durable mischiefs and miseries unto mankind: And as he (secundum Hermetem) performs evil more slowly, yet by reason of his tardous motion, and envious tenacious nature, he is most certain to accomplish it the more surely: and this I am afraid we poor mortals shall find and experience to purpose, from his envious, malignant, and pernicious effects, portended unto us by his position in this Solar defect. Surely God is angry with these Western parts of the world, and that exceedingly! in that he shows so many eminent and signal tokens of his divine displeasure against us. But lately, viz. anno 1663. on Octob. 10. was celebrated an unusual Conjunction of Saturn and Jupiter, in the Regal and fiery sign Sagittary: such a Conjunction that happens but once in 795 years, it beginning the circuit of those two Planets in the Fiery Trigon * See more of this Conjunction in my Dies Novissimus, or Doomsday not so near as dreaded. And a little after that, there appeared three dreadful Comets or Blazing Stars, as so many Monitors of approaching terrors and dangers to befall most part of the habitable Globe: those Comets having relation in their motion, unto almost three parts of the whole Zodiacal Circle. And now this year, (as if those rare and unusual Phaenomena were not of themselves sufficient to presage horror enough to complete poor Europe's already-begun miseries!) we are fallen under the effects of a Solar Eclipse, in a Cardinal Tropical sign: and this defect was visible to all this Occidental part of the world: the glorious Lamp of heaven refusing to afford us his wont benign influences, by suffering (in this defect) his nobler rays to be withheld from us. As the sad and to-be-lamented effects of these several Celestial Ambassadors, we have had our sufficient share of Wars, the company of that horrid, black and dismal enemy the Pestilence; a miserable desolation and destruction by Fire; and all these too long and too heavy upon us! and yet God's anger is not turned away, his hand is stretched out still 〈◊〉 the envious Planet Saturn, and furious Planet Mars (by their malesique positions and configuration in this Solar Deliquium) are yet working more mischiess and disturbances, in the minds, manners, and actions of mankind; and will (by their evil influence) hinder and obstruct the course of things, both in Natural Generation, and in Trade, and in affairs of most kinds. God grant a Famine succeed not those several former severer Judgements of the Almighty, if it be his blessed will. Although those other Judgements have been afflictions grievous to be born, and eminently terrifying (almost) unto all sorts of people; yet the least part of the Famine will be far more transcendently intolerable and crued unto mankind, than all the other put together. Famine (saith one) is sometimes so fierce, that it makes the mother use the teeth in stead of her lips to her own child; to by't without pity the infant which she used to kiss; and in stead of giving it suck, to let out the blood of it. God keep so black an enemy from the doors of all truehearted Englishmen I we have had our portion of Plenty, and this in so great and abundant measure, that we have wallowed therein: Oh! that we might be able to divert our part of Penury, by acts of Charity, Prayer, and Repentance. Had we no assistance from the Celestial movers for our Judgements in these matters, yet those observations we are able to make from common Experience, might readily inculcate to us a more-then-ordinary probability thereof; since it is the Order which God and Nature observeth, to pursue a Plenty with a Dearth, and to punish extreme Wantonness with griping Want. Bright mornings oft have blackest afternoons. Ecliysium Solis effectus potentes sunt, unde si in florentem Messim inciderint sterilitatem afferunt Seg. 2. Aph. 16 The learned Hieronymus Cardanus tells us, (and I am afraid too oraculously) that the effects of an Eclipse of the Sun are very powerful, which happening in the beginning of a hopeful and flourishing harvest, denotes sterility and barrenness to follow. I fear, I fear, that the great strength of Saturn (I Cadentia sunt spiritus, & quicquid accidit in eyes, dem accidit in spiritibus. Haly. mean not particularly in this Solar Eclipse, but) in this whole year, and some years yet succeeding, will, and doth presage, not only Sterility, or a Dearth of Corn, etc. but a destruction of all things growing upon the earth, useful for mankind. He is in a Cadent house in the heavens, thence afflicting the Lights: Haly says, that Cadent houses are as it were spirits; and whatsoever happens in them, (he means either of fortitude or afflication) happens unto the spirits of men or things. Hence I am fearful, that not only the spirits of seeds of Vegetables will lose their soul and vigour, and not be capable of rooting and bringing forth the fruits of the earth, as at oath times. Saturn is a Planet cold and dry; and therefore (in a Physical sense) a great enemy to, and hinderer of all Nature's products, and indeed of all natural Existencies: And he is now posited in Capricorn, in a cold, dry, melancholy and feminine sign; as if the most hopeful conceptions were threatened to be destroyed in 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, or in the womb, and scarcely suffered to see the light; much less to come to maturity. The learned Rigel, in his 83 Aphorism, sets it down as an absolute Conclusion, That Saturn is the most pernicious and destructive in his effects, when he is posited (as now in this Eclipse) in a feminine sign. Thus you see, Authors are positive and agreeing: An Eclipse in the beginning of a Harvest, denotes barrenness, saith Cardan. The spirits of Vegetables, etc. are afflicted, saith Haly. Saturn is most destructive when in feminine signs, saith Rigel. The Eclipse itself began in June, a little after the beginning of the Summer, viz. when the Grain gins to harden in the Ear. We have had a very dry Summer; a hot and moist Autumn; (as if the natures of the Seasons were really changed.) Let us petition, that God of his infinite goodness, would not permit or suffer our Harvests for some years succeeding, either by unkind and bitter frosts, Mildews, or unseasonable Showers, to be either blasted or lodged, or suffer other damage or prejudice, before it comes to be fully hardened, and fit for the painful Husbandman's Sickle. Yet a little further. Sol omnibus Planetis tribuit vires: (they are * Segm. 5. Aphor. 171. Cardan's words.) The Sun (as he is Rex Planetarum, the King of all Stars) gives strength and power to the Planets. And when his sight is hindered, his influence is obstructed, and Nature receives a check in all her teeming, and is thereby much molested in her noblest and freeest operations. Sol omnium fortunarum maxima est, neque Planeta ullus magis benifious. Card. And, There is no Planet more benific and friendly unto this earthly Globe, then is the Sun: for he is the greatest of the fortunate Stars, and disperses his happy rays and influences most liberally. Great therefore must the damages and injuries be unto mankind, when his most illustrious and nourishing beams shall be withheld from them, though but for the smallest portion of time: much more, when we shall be deprived of his friendly rays some hours together, as now in this Solar Deliquium. And although there be some men who weakly maintain, that Eclipses have no more influences upon terrene bodies, than the black-faced night; yet deny they cannot, that the one is natural and ordinary, the other prodigious and extraordinary: and certainly their effects must be as different as their natures. Nay, they that quarrel most against the influences of such obscurities and defects, cannot (by their quarrelling) anticipate the effects thereby portended, in either their own, or friends Nativities. The Diurnal motion of the Earth, (or Sun, if people will have it so) is such, that there is an apparent Physical reason to be rendered of the common and neverfailing intercourse of Day and Night. But Eclipses happening in no such order, and at no such certainty, (in respectu temporis) clearly demonstrate the darkness of the night less valid and efficacious, then that in Eclipses: the one coming to pass by a constant and unalterable Law or Edict of Nature; and the other happening by Nature's Decrees also, but at no such certain, distinct, and determinate times. Were Eclipses as certain to happen as is she night, (I mean, when the same reason in Nature is afforded) then should we have Eclipses of both Luminaries every month: for, if we consider that the Sun is eclipsed only in his Synod or Conjunction with the Moon; and the Moon suffers an obscuration when she is diametrically opposed to the Sun; we must conclude the cause of the Sun's Eclipse to be the interposition of the Moon between him and the Earth; and the cause of the Moon's Eclipse to be the interposition of the Earth between the Sun and her. Now we know, that there is not a month passeth us, but affordeth a New and Full Moon; yet we may be six months and more, sometimes, without an Eclipse of either Luminary: Ergo, Eclipses are of far greater concernment unto mankind, than the Enemies of Astrology are ware of, whose ignorance in Starry matters, would seem to make them of one and the same influence and effect with the necessary darkness and obscurity of the night. The natural privation of light in the night, is (in its kind) of as good use unto all things sublunary, as the splendour and beauty of the day; and is as necessarily opposed thereunto, as the siceity and calidity of the Summer and Autumn, to the humidity and frigidity of the Spring and Winter. But as it must be destructive to have two Summers in a year, where one is of sufficient force to ripen all that one Spring can produce; so must it needs be contrary to the increase and nourishment of the seminal virtues of all terrene productions, to have a double night; or in the stead of one, a night and a half, whenas one singly is endowed with vigour enough, to concoct and allay the heat of bright Phoebus' scorching rays, that one day affords. I will conclude this Digression with an Excursion of the learned Peucer concerning the effects of Eclipses: Quantos incendit aestus quamdiu flagrantes, Solis sub ♈ anno quadragesinno? Quos motus in Orb Terrarum commovit, cum haec Solis, tum altero anno post Lunae Eclipse? Nata ex illis & propagata sunt semina malorum omnium, quae tunc cum nostras urgeant cervices, & vitae fortunisque minitentur, imme intentent atque in ferant perniciem, evidentius sentimus & ferimus ac deploramus acerbius. Quantas lights, quam superba dissidia, & occulta odia, insidiasque quam violenta consilia severint struxerintque quae bella indicerint, quae pericula nocument aque frumento fructibusque crearint, deliquia anni quadragesimi quarti, cum Luna tota, atra caligine, ter foedum in modum deformaretur? Sol plus de unce sui orbis obsuscaretur, adeo, ut in quibusdam locis interdiu stellae illuxerint, ac conspectae sint; eo ipso, & sequentibus annu, ex eventu didicimus. Casp. Peve. fol. 661. de Astrolog. Prudenter Salem considera; nam judicia Solis non sant oblivioni ●●adenda. L. Rigiis. To proceed; we are advised by Rigel, prudently and warily to consider the Sun, and in no wise to forget in our Judgements what effects are dependant upon him; chief in an Eclipse. And Leovitius writing upon the great Eclipse of the Sun which was conspicuous upon April 9 1567. with relation to the great Effects thereby portended, exclaims, Profecto tam tetram ac horrendam Eclipsin Solis ab anno Domini 1544. non habuimus, nec etiam multis futuris saeculis habituri sumus. (i. e.) We verily (saith he) have not had so horrid and prodigious an Eclipse of the Sun, since the year of our Lord 1544. neither shall we in many ages to come, have the like again. As Leovirius said then of that, so may I say of this Eclipse; (and I hope, in some respects in may be received as a word of welcome to the world; it intimating, though not at present, yet a future happiness unto it) we shall not in many Ages have the like Eclipse again: but (mistake me not) this I say not, by reason of the number of digits eclipsed; but by reason of that part of the Zodiac in which the defect happens, with a regard had unto the many sad attendants it hath, and the several rough concomitants it meets with, in signification and portent. Some (perhaps) may wonder I insist not upon the effects of Jupiter somewhat more in this Discourse, he being the next in dignity to Mercury in this Solar Eclipse. But to such I answer, that his benifique * Jupiter must suffer many hardships, run thorough great difficulties, combat with many hazards, torments and afflictions, suffer several scoffs & jeers & many scars, wounds & disgraces, before he can come to shine, and show himself in his native lustre, signification and portent. significations are hindered by Mars, (as before I urged) and also Saturn; so that his noble significations are herein totally impeded and obscured, at least for a time: but possible it is, by that time Jupiter comes into Cancer again, the Saturnine evils will be a little blown over, and Europe may then begin to partake of his illustrious and noble rays and influences; which will then be so glorious and dazzling, that Envy shall not stand before them. Thus far in general: Come we next to some particulars by this Eclipse denoted. The Effects (such sad ones as they are) you have heard of already: my first particular Enquiry shall be of the Vbi, the place where those several Effects shall operate, or chief show themselves: And those are such, as Astrologers (from a large Experience of the beauteous smiles, and black events of heaven) have placed under the Celestial Sign Cancer, and its Quadrangle, viz. Libra, Capricorn, & Aries; some whereof (as you may see in my Doctrine of Nativities, from pag. 83. to pag. 87. in Part 1.) are Holland, Zealand, Scotland, Granada, Burgundia, Numidia, Carthage, Africa, Bythinia, Colchis, Denmark, Sweden, Germany, England, France, Palestina, Polonia mirtor, Austria, Livonia, Sabaudia, Thuseia, Caspia, Maccedonia, Illyria, Thrace, Albania, Bulgaria, Lituania, Saxonia, Hassia, Thuringia, India, Isles of Orchades, etc. for Kingdoms and Countries. And for Cities and Towns, these: viz. Naples, Florence, Capua, Ferraria, Augusta, Verona, Brunswick, Milan, Amsterdam, Venice, Genoa, Constantinople, Tunis, Cadiz, York, St. Andrews, Lisbon, Antwerp, Arles, Spires, Vienna, Frankfort, Placentia, Oxford, (poor Oxford!) Constance, Mecklin, Brandenburg, Vilna, Cleves, cum multis aliis, etc. All which Kingdoms, Countries, Cities and Towns, or any of them, I say, are strongly menaced by this eminent Solar Eclipse; and their inhabitants will have great need to make use of both prayers and tears, to avert the heavy Judgements of a highly-offended God, at this time, and for some ensuing years, impending over them. A Word unto each of these Kingdoms and Countries, more plainly. Holland and Zealand, you are in the first and chiefest place, concerned in this Celestial Apparition. Saturn is in Opposition to your Ascendent: the Sun is Eclipsed in your Horoscope: and the fiery Planet Mars is in Quadrate Aspect unto it. Your Trade is in danger of being totally ruined; your Merchants, of being utterly undone: your Great-ones, are at their wit's end; and Poor-ones, ready to mutiny for want of Bread! Make peace with England betimes, or shortly it will be too late for you: a little more struggling will reduce you from High and Mighty, unto Poor and Distressed States! Let not your own Astrologers (as of late they have done) flatter you with the hopes of what is never likely to happen: for I unfeignedly protest, all these (and greater) mischiefs will fall upon you, unless you are wise in time, and by a prudent and sudden Submission and seeking of Peace prevent it. * This was written before the late Rebellion there; but the Caution may serve for the future. Scotland hath always had the reputation of a wise Nation: let not an Ignote Zeal against things indifferent, overcome thy Prudence: Cross the Proverb which says, Omne malum à Boreale. Be peaceable, and be happy. Granada, thou wast first raised out of the ruins of Illiberis, and hast long continued in great splendour: be not too confident of thy strength and riches, but keep peace and amity with thy Neighbour-Princes: pay thy Tribute quietly to thy undoubted Sovereign, and then thou mayst escape returning into thy first matter. Burgundia, thou didst first own the God of the Christians for thy advantage: it will be for thy profit now, to maintain thy Religion, and thy Peace. Numidia, be quiet within thyself; quell Mutinies and Insurrections in the bud; and pray that thy Prince be as fortunate as Massinissa was. Carthage, (once the Lady and Mistress of Africa, and so continued near 730 years;) thou hast been often obscured; now thou art threatened again, but not with total ruin: It was thy Custom to crucify, not only the unhappy Captain, but even him whose bad counsel had a prosperous event: Improve at this time the advice of thy virtuous Counsellors, and be happy. Africa, (the Roman Africa I mean) thy abundant Plenty is turning into Want. Bythinia, thou wast not formerly more peaceable, pleasant, and fertile, under the Government of the Christians; then now thou art likely to prove unquiet, disturbant, and barren, under the Turks. Colchis, the glory of Armenia, thy Chemical Sun is near an eclipse; thy Golden Fleece, and all thy Ours, are departing from thee. Denmark, thy Prince hath a Royal Genesis, yet he is but a man: let not a Cancerian people by their policy bring thee under water. Sweden, if Sword and Sickness get not the upper hand of thee, thou mayst do pretty well: thy damage comes from the South. Germany, be patiented a little, and let the Whirlwind pass thee; and thy Sun shall shine again, and thy Eagle shall extend her wings, and fly a pitch, beyond the power of Turk or Tartar to molest thee. England, be quiet a while, thy Storm is nearly over: practise Loyalty, keep Peace within thyself, and the conspiring world shall never injure thee. France, the effects of Med. Coel. to a Square of Mars attend thee: trust not too confidently to thy Purse and Power. Palestina, the Sun's ashamed to see thy Holy Land. Polonia minor, thou art falling retrograde under the effects of this Eclipse; there needs no other bridle to keep thee from advancing. Austria, cherish not Factions within thyself: thy Eclipse will prove but Platique, and that (sine mora) without continuance: thou wilt recover thy glory again. Livonia, thy Merchant's smart to purpose; domestic Quarrels, and petit Tyrannies, bring the scourge upon thee. Sabaudia, thou art molested both at home, and from abroad, and wilt be for a season: afterwards, thou mayst of Malvoy, become Salvoy again. Thuscia, the honour of Italy, for promoting Celestial Learning; the glory of the world, for unexhausted and neverfailing Steel-mynes: pray that thy slighting the former, bring not upon thee the malevolent effects of the later. Caspia, Intestine Jars, and Foreign Enemies, create much trouble unto thee: be assiduously vigilant and preparing, that the Parthian sword prove not too sharp and heavy for thee. Macedonia, be careful to prevent Fires, and trade not too much Westward. Illyris, 'tis thy lot to have many conquerors. Thrace, thy ancient Custom was to mourn at the birth of Children, and to rejoice at their death: it was a Practice Orthodox and Pious; assume it again, it may now be necessary. Albania, kick not against thy Superiors, nor thy Peace; lest another Scanderbag rise out of thy own bowels again, to punish thee. Bulgaria, be wise; lest thy too strict adhering to a Turkish faith, ruin thy stately Palaces, and destroy thy Princely Cities. Lituania, Worship and serve the true God; your Dishpan, or God of Smoke, cannot save you from common Flames or Troubles. Saxonia, keep peace with the Emperor, and ward a Westward storm. Hassia, thy Lion barry is like to lose his Crown; engage not too far, for fear on't. Thuringia, History makes mention of thy having been many times burnt, but thou hast revived, like a Phoenix out of the ashes, into greater glory. God grant thou mayst be so happy now, and ever. India, as thy Country is great and populous, so thy afflictions designed by this Eclipse, will be great and eminent. Orchades, thy Swans sing not so sweetly as in times past; and thy great plenty of Fish, seems wasted: thy inhabitants grow sluggish and inactive; Diseases waste their courage: but you will meet with timely relief and amendment. Secondly, and not only to Kingdoms, Countries and Cities, etc. are these Elliptical effects carried or directed; but unto many individual persons, men, women, and children: more especially unto such, that shall have either the tenth degree of Cancer, or its opposite Sign Capricorn their Medium Coeli, Horoscope, or place of either of the Luminaries in their Nativities. Unto some persons, they denote death; too others, tedious and durable infirmities; unto a third sort, they denuntiate a Catastrophe of Honour, and a ruin of reputation, fame, etc. affliction by continual Controversies, vexatious Lawsuits, etc. to a fourth sort, destruction of Parents, friends and acquaintauce, or an absolute hatred between them and the Natives contracted or procured, no ways reconcileable. To a fifth sort, Imprisonments, Banishments, Exile, the wrath of Princes and Potentates. To a sixth sort, Blindness, or loss of one of the Luminaries of their bodies: and this most certain, if the Sun and Moon were weak, or any way afflicted at the birth of such persons. Thirdly, such persons as shall be born at the time of this Eclipse, will either suddenly, (or else in some short time after it) die: or if for some competent space of time they should possess a place among the living, they will live most miserable and diseased; subject to a thousand troubles and infortunacies, etc. And I could wish that any ingenious adversary to Astrology, (for some such I have charity to think there are) would take the pains, and observe the births of such children, (for I, God permitting life and liberty, intent to do the like) and after a candid inspection, of the Figures, and serious observation of the Natives unto whom they belong, publish them, either to the disparagement of Astrology, or conviction of their former thoughts thereof. The trial would be easy, and might either correct the confidence of Astrologers, or better in form the judgements of their Antagonists. Fourthly, to put a little more weight in the Seal; persons that shall be born at the time of this Eclipse, if they shall prove vital, will be ugly, or of an ill-favoured aspect; that for their evil looks they shall be hated and abhorred by many while they do live. The reason hereof is this: Saturn and Mars, the two infortunate Stars, afflict the Luminaries at the time of this Eclipse: and Astrologers say, (nemine contradicente) When the Sun or Moon shall be (an any Geniture whatever) in Conjunction, Quartile, or Opposition of Saturn and Mars, (chief when both of them shall so suffer) it portends an ill aspect, and great detriment and damage to the Natives sight, if not an absolute blindness. But then (perhaps) you'll say, this Astrological reason is not Universal enough: take then a Physical one: The sight resides in the Eyes, and particularly in the Crystalline humour there; which is by nature cold and moist, and governed by the Luminaries of heaven: [for Man, you must know, is a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, or little world, and hath a Sun and Moon in him, like the greater:] now this noble and Celestial humour, being opposed and oppressed by one more earthly, (as Saturn properly signifies) or by one more hot and fiery, (as Mars governs) is attracted beyond its proper and peculiar seat; and thereby made not only less serviceable, but less pleasant, according to the quantity of the oppression it labours under. Whence come those unpleasant looks, and abhorred defects in many persons, commonly called Purblind, Squint-eyed, etc. and sometimes an absolute blindness, or total deprivation of sight. Many more matters might have been observed from this eminent and famous Solar defect; but these short Animadversions touching upon the principal things thereby signified, shall serve to illustrate the effects thereof; and also to commute for my promise made in my last years Ephemeris concerning the same. POSTSCRIPT, Ad Lectorem. BEing in London all the late terrible Visitation, and observing this quondam-glorious City labouring under the mightiest Discontents imaginable; sadly lamenting the dismal sight of Coffins, and their Cadaverous guests; having no other Music heard within her, but Bells to a mournful tune, and her inhabitants in every corner wretchedly bewailing the loss of their Relations of all kinds: And taking notice, that, not only Empirics, but the learned Physicians themselves, were deceived in their Prognostics and Cures of that Raging Pest. 'Tis true, they used divers Means, to put a check unto its fury; but, as the number of their Antidotes increased, the Weekly Bills augmented: as if God and Nature were angry beyond an ordinary degree of Pacification, and would not suffer those Celestial influences to be baffled, from whence these cruel Calamities issued. Observing these things, I say, I was resolved to try how far Astrology might be serviceable in this matter, and accordingly took Pen in hand; and (for this dejected city's comfort and encouragement) wrote a short Discourse, which I entitled, London's Deliverance predicted, etc. In which Book, according to the true and plain Rules of Astrology, I acquainted the world, when the Pest should arrive at its greatest height; and afterwards, with the time of its abatement; as also of the several Countries suffering thereby. And although I aimed at nothing in that Tractate, but the comfort of the (then) many suffering souls in this great City; I have had the hard hap to be misinterpreted for many things therein; chief, for my plain discussion of this urrifying, but most necessary Question to be scanned, viz. Whether the Plague be catching. For my pains in this Enquiry, Mr. John Booker, in his Almanac for 1666. is pleased to spend above a Page upon me; and urges a Definition of the Plague, and ingeniously explains it: but yet is pleased to let my Arguments stand untouched, and only says, he could instance the Plague to be infectious and catching by innumerable means, but that he wants room. I should (I confess) have been glad to have seen his Arguments brought in opposition to mine; being as ready (if Reason require) to retract an Error, as write a Truth. But for any man to say, he is not of my Opinion, and not to show me a reason wherefore, is not (I conceive) the way to win me unto his. There is another Gentleman also, a Doctor of Physic, (which Title (fairly obtained) and Profession also, I exceedingly honour) hath been pulling at me in Print, for my maintaining the Negative in the Question above propounded. This Antagonist is angry in earnest, and tells the world, That I deserve to be answered by the Magistrate, and that there is no way to suppress my Opinion, or answer my Arguments, but by putting in execution an Order published in Queen Elizabeth ' s days. To which I answer: If there be any such Order as he pretends, I humbly submit my self and Opinion unto it; as also unto all other Edicts proceeding from Authority. Contra Legem nonest disputandum: and he must be strangely Rebellious, that opposeth the Laws he liveth under. To contemn what we cannot conquer, some commend as good Policy; and to pretend to answer a serious Argument with the power of the Magistrate, or an Act of Parliament, is (I confess) the only infallible way to stop any Opponents mouth. How like a Philosopher that way of arguing is, let the knowing world judge. But I believe this Gent. is as bold with Authority, as rigid with me: for I never yet heard or read of any Order published, to prove the Plague contagious, or to prohibit a discussion of that Question; except from his Pen: although I can say, I have often consulted Poulton. And considering some other passages of his, I perceive that he is not more angry at that my Opinion, then at the Celestial movers, the Stars; whom (saith he) many have accused as the Authors of the Plague. I have (I acknowledge) in the Book before mentioned, proved the Stars to be (sub Deo) the Causes of the Pestilence: but nowhere do I bring an accusation against them, as I know of; believing them free from guilt, and not meriting an Impeachment for the same; they only performing that Office therein, which God appointed them for at the beginning. But this Gentleman (notwithstanding his aim, and fruitless pains, to render me ridiculous, and the Stars (I study) inefficacious;) is not (in the mean time) ware, of his own running into an Error of far greater magnitude; viz. in his asserting the Original of the Plague to have been the ROTTEN MUTTON eaten in the year before. Now, let any rational man consider whether of the two, come nearest the Truth: I, in asserting the Stars; or he, in maintaining Rotten Mutton, to be the Cause of the Pest. An Epicurean may, and frequently doth ascribe more to his belly, then unto those glorious and ever-busied Lamps of heaven. I cannot stand here to repeat the Arguments I have urged, to prove the Plague contagious; I must refer the Reader, for that, to the Book itself. But if Rotren Mutton be attended with such fatal effects, why not a Plague every year after a Rot of Sheep? which is the common consequence of every moist Summer. Or, if the Plague were truly the effect of Rotten Mutton; how then holds it true, what he asserts elsewhere, in the same Discourse? viz. That the Plague came to us from the Netherlands, and to them from Smyrna, in a parcel of infected goods. Was there a Rot of Muiton in Smyrna too? Risum teneatis, etc. To conclude: let it suffice at present, that I deny any such way of infection by Goods; and reject the Romance of his Rotten Mutton: and (as before) do assert, the Stars (sub Deo) to be the true and essential causes of all Plagues: and subscribe unto it. John Gadbury. From my Study in Brick-Court by the Bowling-Alley, near the Deans Yard Westminster. ADVERTISEMENT. THe BODY of ASTROLOGY (so often by me promised) consisting of many various and different Subjects, each of which requires much more Study and Pains than I at the first expected, will, I hope, this year be fully ready for the Press; I having gone thorough the greatest part thereof already, and doubt not (by God's assistance) to complete it in due time: which whensoever done, I shall (with all Candour and Faithfulness) make public, for the Advantage of the Industrious Students in this Art, and perfection of Astrology in the English Tongue. Several Books written and published by JOHN GADBURY. AN Emendation of Hartgil's Astronomical Tables. The Celestial Ambassador. The Doctrine of Nativities. The Nativity of King Charles the First, of blessed Memory. Britain's Royal Star. The Nature of Prodigies. The King of Swedes Nativity. The Spurious Prognosticator unmasked. The Novice-Astrologer instructed. Nuncius Astrologicus. The Collection of Nativities. Dies Novissimus, or Doomsday not so near as dreaded. An Astrological Disceurse of the three Comets, in 1664, and 1665. London's deliverance from the Plague. Vox Solis: or, A Discourse of the Sun's Eclipse in June 1666. Besides his Almanacs, annually continued since 1655.