THE White-powder Plot DISCOVERED, OR, A PROPHETICAL POEM, Wherein is most elegantly revealed the secret Combination of Hell and Rome, against the interest of true Religion, and more particularly against the late King of Blessed Memory, and Kingdom of England. Written before the late unhappy Wars broke forth, and too sadly verified in them, which yet the Author scarce lived to see. Also a Prophetical Rapture concerning the future extent of this British Empire into Italy. By GEORGE MAY, Gent. LONDON▪ Printed, and are to be sold by Francis Grove Stationer on Snow-hill and by Francis Mawborn Stationer in York, 1662. Courteous Reader, IT would be too much of injury to thee, to detain thee any time with a tedious Epistle, and to avoid that, I only in short give thee this account; that the Book thou art now about to engage thy pains in, (if thou dost not read it too slightly over) will not fail thee, as some do, that are larger in the first page than in all the rest that follow, but fully answer all thy expectations, that take their rise from thy view of the Frontispiece. Thus I leave it to thy judgement, which I hope will neither be severe nor rash; and I doubt not but after a serious perlection, thou wilt conclude it a friendly part done of him that brought the Poem to the Press, which above this twenty years hath been kept close prisoner in his dead Master's Closet, and seems to be ancienter in its date than the first Scotish Expedition; and perhaps after thou hast weighed all its particulars, thou wilt be as great an Admirer of it, as he that commends it to thee. Farewell. Upon that excellent Poem of Mr. George May, called, The White-powder Plot discovered. WEre't not a sin both against Heaven and Thee, To wish Thee back from thy Eternity; How earnest should I be, that Earth again Were enriched with thy presence? But in vain Are all such thoughts, it is enough that we Have any thing that did belong to thee. Thy Book these many years since thou didst die, Has Cloistered up itself from every eye, Like a Close Mourner; Nay, a man may say, It Buried was, like Thee, from sight or day, And so had laid, but that a Happy Fate Attends the Press, and those to it relate. Thus, and no other way, it comes to be Extant with us, and risen before thee. A. B. Upon that most Ingenious Poem of Mr. George May, called, The White-powder Plot. I Now believe a Transmigration Of Souls is no such fond opinion: Since did not thy foreseeing one inherit Some old Sibylla's strange Prophetic Spirit, It were not possible thou shouldst so well The King and Kingdom's Fortune thus foretell; Or sing in lofty numbers England's fate, Which thou so long before didst antedate. Such is thy Method, such thy History, So clear thy Vein, so smooth thy Poetry, So strangely taking, that it would require The ripest Judgement which most do admire. Prophetic raptured Soul! was I possessed With the least spark which did inspire thy breast, I'd write thy Praises in a strain as high, As is thy much admired Prophecy; Nay I'd turn Prophet too, and boldly say, None ever was, or will be, match with May. A. C. On the posthumous Prophetical Poem of Mr. George May, called, The White-powder Plot discovered. HAd I faculty for Verse, I would employed to grace thy Hearse With Elegies, 'cause Thou didst die So soon, cut off by Destiny: And that thy Book came forth so late, Which might have saved both King and State. But, O alas! Thy hour was come, Through our irrevocable doom, Not thine own fate: Thy Book concealed, That Wrath on Sin may be revealed. What Dress, O May, can suit thy worth? 'Tis thine own Flowers sets thee forth. I would be glad to live and see What's yet behind, foretold by Thee. For thy sake, I could wish St. George's day Henceforth translated to the Month of May. A. D. To his BOOK. MY little Book, if any chance to bring Thee to the hands of Charles, my Sovereign King, Present my bounden Love and Loyalty And faithful Service to his Majesty. Tell him that Men run mad, beware to trust, For not a Man, amongst a thousand's just. The Dev'l's unloosed from his inchained Den, And reigns, and rages, in the hearts of Men; Sin strives with Virtue, gets the upper hand, And makes God's Vengeance scourge this Sinful Land. The Devil's Motto is of great and small Embraced: (Each for himself, and God for all) The time has been, when men would spend their Blood, And sacrifice themselves, for Sovereign's good. The time is now, (O happy time to reign) When King love's People, People him again. They are his Members, he their Royal Head, How could they thrive, if he were sick, or dead? Oh, then endeavour both with foot and hand, To underprop this Head of British Land. But now, alas! both hands and feet are lame, Some both in Court and Country are too blame In many things, which would amended be, If that his eyes were , that he might see: But they disable, Eye, and Hand, and Ear, That he should neither See, nor Feel, nor Hear; They know his Justice, and they fear his Rod, As guilty Conscience fears the Wrath of God. What Joseph now, doth near the King remain, That foresees Famine, and provides for Grain, For to relieve their King and Country's want, When Victuals fail, or Money waxeth scant? I may with David, testify there's none In all the Court, or Country, scarcely one That seeks for to advance their Prince's store, Unless they pluck it from the backs o'th' Poor. Poor Souls, they want, yet do not murmur much, Because their true Religion makes them such. But if in Popish times such things had been, You should have many change of colours seen; But God be blest, Religion doth advance, Our days, above those times of Ignorance. We do adore our Kings as Gods, for we Know, God commands, on Earth it so should be; And pray that God may so our Souls reward, As Kings may safely walk, without a Guard. But I am sure his Royal ears would itch, If he should hear how the o'r-ruling Rich Oppress the Poor, and like self-loving Elves, Care not who weep, so they may laugh themselves, When as his Majesty well understands, That a small number of some Rich men's hands, Cannot so much unto his profit prove, As the enjoyment of his Commons Love. Yet easy it were, to speak't I dare be bold, To furnish him with weighty sums of Gold By lawful means, and fill his Chests with store, And yet not take one Farthing from the Poor, Nor wrong one Subject, If his Grace did know it, And I persuade myself that I could show it. Yet tell that true Catholic Faith's Protector Thy Master is no common base Projector, Nor aims at his peculiar private gain, For he esteems all fading pelf, but vain; Desires no superfluous Wealth, or Meat, But for warmness, wholesome cates to eat; And only wishes he may spend his Blood, To do his Highness, and his Country good. But God, who knows things secret and concealed, Limits all times, when aught should be revealed. God bless his Grace, and send him long to reign To God's good glory, and our Britain's gain. Non nobis solum nati sumus. G. M. The Author's humble Petition to his right Royal, and thrice Noble Patron. GReat Sir, when you shall grace this little Book, By lending of your Royal eyes to look Thereon, and therein find aught that shall please Your Highness' appetite, my heart's at ease. But whatsoever you cannot well digest, Then cancel it; For here I do protest, My heart is guiltless, and my thoughts are free From the least tincture of Disloyalty, Or injury unto the meanest Swain, Which in these Territories doth remain; And live in hope to see, that time, and place, Wherein I may do service to Your Grace. And therefore (thrice renowned Noble,) since, My aim shoots at the profit of my Prince, I humbly pray, to let misprisions pass Your Gentle Censure: For I know, alas, My Oaten-pipe, and rustic homebred strain, Lacks pleasant Relish, for your Courtly brain. Which done, if you vouchsafe your Royal hand Unto the same: I'm sure it will command The Churlish Printer, without further strife, To give it freedom; Then whilst we have life, My Book, and I, will both unto our power Endeavour to approve, that we are Your Grace's obsequious Servants: And will pray For your eternal Happiness George May. The Author's Prayer before his Book. NOw thou who know'st the obtuse heart of Man, Who measurest the Earth as with a span, Who keep'st the hurling Winds within thy fist, So that they cannot rage's, but when thou list; Who graspst the curled Waves within thy hand; Who numberest each fraction in the sand; Whose Power can be abated by no Faction; Who swaist, and over-rulest every action; So guide, and rule, this Terrene hand of mine, That whoso reads, may know the work is thine. Pardon, O pardon, my presumptuous hand, For his dear sake, who Advocate doth stand At thy right hand, to stay deserved ire, Which else for Sin, might justly be my hire. But since his Blood has washed my Sins away, Now show thy mercy on new-moulded clay. Thy Mercy, makes thy Glory, brighter shine, Than all thy Attributes, great, and Divine. Direct, and lead, my Heart, my Hand, and Pen, That all may glorify thy Name. Amen. The WHITE-POWDER PLOT Discovered. DArk Nights black Curtains being something drawn, A description of the Morning. Grey-eyd Aurora in a smock of Lawn Appears: and Darkness like a Drunkard reels Through day's by-paths, but shuns the burning Wheels Of glorious Titan, who doth blush to see Aurora up and ready, before he Can fix his fulgent Rays upon his head, Which dies the Eastern World with so much Red, That it caused Mortals stand and gaze thereon, Imagining some haughty Phaeton Usurped his Father's Chariot once again, To curb his fiery Horses with the Reign. Just at this time, even at this present hour, I laid me down within a pleasant Bower. The Hawthorn's white, the Brier gins to bud, The Spring described. Upon the Grass appears a Crystal flood Of pearled Dew, to quaver up and down, As threatening th' Earth once more therewith to drown. Roses, and Violets, Flowers of fragrant smell, Did on such clusters, in this Arbour dwell, As though alone within this pleasant Arbour, The choicest Flowers on Earth did strive to harbour. Grazing my Senses on this new come brood Of Springs sweet Progeny, me thought there stood A Man Angelical, his Robes were White, His hair was long, much like a Nazarite, Whose awful sight causing my flesh to quake, To ease my fear, thus (thunderlike) he spoke; Fear not (said he) good courage take, my Friend, For I come to thee for a holy end, That what by me, to thee, this time presages Thou mayst proclaim unto succeeding ages, And unto Mortals, testify, and tell, Those things thou hearest, and seest, in Heaven and Hell. Alas (said I) I am but rural brea, Such high employments will confound my head, If that thy powerful Deity will be pleased, Let thy poor Vassal of this task be eased, Eiect a Person of some greater worth, Who can with Lofty, Courtly, terms set forth These Mysteries: poor Hackneiss serve for Us, And none but Courtiers mount Bucephalus. My faltering tongue these words had scarcely said, When into th' Arbour steps a modest Maid, And in her hand, she brought a Pen and Ink, Some of the Muses sure she was, I think, Who stooping to the ground, kneeling thereon, I brought this Ink (said she) from Helicon: Within that Pen-sheath likewise is a Quill Pulled (from a Swan bred on Parnassus' Hill) By cunning Mercury, who proved the same, To win that beautiful, and starely Dame, Proud Danae to Jupiter for Gold, As ancient Poets have in Stories told. This said, She made it fast unto my side, Then out of sight more quick than lightning glide. My eye scarce twinkled after this was done, But straight I sound my resolution Quite metamorphozed, ready pressed to go Where e'er it pleased my Guide conduct me to. Well (said the Angel) we must hence away, Our business calls, and will not brook delay. With that, as though a thunderbolt were driven Upon proud Earth, from just revenging Heaven, So fast, and faster were my Guide and I Mounted from th' Earth, above the azur'd Sky. Even here I found, that our Divines say true, We shall know men in Heaven, which we ne'er knew Here upon Earth: and therefore sure to know Those friends above, which here we know below. For like as Adam knew his new-framed Wife Simile So soon as ere she had a taste of life: And straightway called upon her by her name, Ne'er ask what she was, not how she came; And like as Scripture unto us discloses, How that Elias, and the Prophet Moses, Were known to Christ's Disciples on the Mount, When whoso list to calculate, or count, Shall find those Prophets died long before, Above a thousand years, or rather more. As Adam's Wife, and as th' Apostles these By inspiration knew; So did it please Th' Almighty Rector of the hearts, that I Whilst I remained in thoughts above the Sky, Was excellent in knowledge, could have told Each Man, or Angel's name, I did behold. A Parliament in Heaven. Then instantly, a Cloud was drawn away, Which done, I might behold as clear as day A spacious place, all richly gilded with Gold, And precious Stones, mine eyes did ne'er behold So rare a Prospect, Man cannot invent A thing of so great note or wonderment. Here did the Prophets, and Apostles sit, Th' Evangelists, and all the rest that writ The life of Jesus, and his sacred Word, And all that Martyred were, by fire and sword, Whose Robes were as of colour d'yd in blood. I to behold this Army Royal stood As metamorphozed; yet desired to know Th' event would follow such a glorious show: Like when a Traveller weary, and sore, Simile. With travel, sits him down upon the shore Near to the Sea, seeking his limbs to ease; He takes delight to view the restless Seas, Birds sweetly sing, the Sun most gently shines, The Winds are calm, each thing to rest inclines; When all on sudden he is circled round With furious Lions, hemming in the ground, Each Lion on his curled back doth bear An armed Man, or warlike Trumpeter, Then Winds they bluster, Seas they rage and swell, The Trumpets sound, the Lions roar and yell, The Heavens rend, sending huge claps of thunder, And all at once engender cause of wonder: So whilst I sat in silence, with intent To see what this Assembly Royal meant; A sudden voice more fearful than all these, The Lions, Thunder, Trumpets, and the Seas, Did pour forth words, but every word it spoke, Made all the frame of Heaven to dance, and shake; Then casting up mine eyes a little higher, I saw a bleeding Lamb in clouds of fire, Which did his speeches, down to them direct, Whose words were these, or unto this effect. The Lamb's Speech in Parliament. SHall I, the uncreated King of Kings, Be torn, and tortured, by these Earthly things? Shall Justice, (stayed by Mercy,) make them bold? Shall th' Potter by his Vessel be controlled? Have I not cherished, nourished, bend my smiles Upon that Island, above all the Isles Great Britain. Of the Terrestrial Orb? Have I not given The crumbs of Manna, and the dew of Heaven, For meat, and drink, unto that wretched Land, And like a Nurse fed them with breast and hand? What do they want that Man can say is good, They eat, and drink▪ my Body and my blood. The more they feed on me, I love them more, Did Man, or God, e'er show such love before! And yet this thus blessed Nation hath begun To disobey the Father, scorn the Son, And that their Sins might ripen to the most Spurn at the (Comforter) the Holy Ghost. How dare they (each day praying) call me Father, When they appear, to be the Devils rather? If I thy Father be, and thou my Son, Where is the honour thou to me hast done? Is it in offering Incense unto B'all, Or in thy feasting Locusts in thy hall? Am I so black, is my surpassing beauty So far decayed, that thou forgettest they duty? Oh no, 'tis sure in me is found no change, But thy corruption makes thee prone to range, Thou art engrafted so on things below, That Heavenly things thou carest not to know. I with the Ocean have hemmed them in To keep them to myself, from foreign sin, Yet make they * Ships. Wooden Bridges, where pass over Rome's Babylonians, from France to Dover, They ' r so besotted with that hellish train, As though the Romans were their Lords again. And it were just, to leave them in their paws, To be consumed with their Fagot-Laws, And take my Candlestiks from off their boards, And give't to some that better fruits affords. Th' Infernal Fiends for Justice rage, and rave, Justice they cry for, Justice they shall have: When th' quintessence of Justice shall be shown, The Devil, and Hell, can have but what 's their own, And those are theirs I will no longer cherish, Mine shall be safe, although the damned perish: But you that are my solace, and my joy, Who suffered tribulation, and annoy, For my name's sake, whilst you on Earth remained, And now the Crown of glory have attained, I make ye Exec'tors of my Testament, Perform it according to my just intent. Let it be published abroad for use, Not subjected to silence, and abuse, Nor yet be writ in Babel's unknown tone, Th' Author of Folly, and Confusion, But fair engrossed in Text, to read and spell, That those that run, or ride, may read it well, And see what Hell that Lower-house requires, If it be just, confirm to their desires. But look that Mercy, which is my delight, Be not encroached on, by the Prince of Night, My Blessing, Love, and Peace be with you still, I leave you now, to execute my will. The Lamb's Speech ends. This said, he veiled himself behind a Cloud, As doth the Sun, when he his Rays doth shroud. Then did the Saints unto the Lamb sing praise, In holy Songs, and heavenly Roundelays: Sitting attentive to receive such bills, As any offered, and to right their ills. St. Michael. My Guide, whom now I know to be the same Who striving with the Devil, overcame, For Morses body, which devouring Dis Did claim, and falsely challenge to be his, Took me by th' hand (saying) we must to Hell To see their actions that below do dwell; But fear thou nothing: for even I thy Guide Will thee protect from Hell, or aught beside. Stra●t we descended to Infern Abyss, Hell described. Where black Egyptian Darkness always is, Darkness indeed, so thick it may be felt, Where Hellish stink of Styx we quickly smelled, But when my Guide with is finger touched my nose All smelled to me as sweet as any Rose. And though we were where 'tis eternal night, Yet had we to ourselves a glorious light. Thus walking safely in the shades of death, Drawing in midst of stink, delicious breath; By this we came unto the River's brink, Which was of colour full as black as Ink; Here did Night-Ravens, and the Scritch-Owls fly, Here did the Harpies, and Hyennaes' cry, Here did the Toads, and Crocodiles rejoice, Here did the Yelling Dragons make a noise; Here sat old Charon in his loathsome Boat, Near to the shore, in careless wise on float; Here did I such a lovely sight behold, Charon described. As Paint ne'er drew, nor Story ever told. This tattered Devil, his shagged locks were black, Which hang benitted dangling on his back, In curled rolls, as ugly and as big, As any Monsieurs pock-hold Periwig; His head hung lolling down betwixt his thighs; As burnished saucers brandished his eyes. Well (quoth my Guide) to make our time seem short, With this old Boat-man, we will have some sport. Charon (said he) I charge thee forthwith tell What caused that uproar was of late in Hell? Like to the slow pace of a Thief by night, Simile. Or like a house removed by force and might, Or like a Ship that 's turned without a Helm, Or like one lifting at a mighty Elm, As swift at least it seemed, or something more Was Charon's haste to turn him to the shore. Then like the voice of one from under ground, Simile. Or like the opening of a deepmouthed Hound, Or like one closed within a hollow Oak, With belching voice at last these words he spoke. Charon's Speech. I marvel you that live in blissful light, Should trouble us here in eternal night, Our Prince is more abated of his Pride By thee, than all the Host of Heaven beside. Know that this hurly-burly here of late Was caused by two Potentates of State, In Parliament which should the Speaker be, And they in words did so far dis-agree, That from great words to fearful blows they fell, So that th' Inferior Subjects of black Hell, Some taking this part, and some taking that, They dealt full roundly many a churlish bat. The noise being heard by Pluto, who did dine At that same instant with his Proserpina, Caused him on sudden rise, and leive his Wife, To know the meaning of such deadly strife: When coming, many a grisly Devil he found, By sturdy strokes, lie tumbling on the ground, But by his presence having made them cease, And (which is seldom known in Hell) made peace, Enquiring of the cause of this debate, Forth steps a Devil with a broken pate, And unto Pluto in plain terms did tell, How that stern Judas and Achitophel Were cause of all: For that they strive (said he) Which in this Parliament shall Speaker be. Then Pluto charged them both by Archeron, Charon, Styx, Tartar, Po, and Phlegeton, That they therein hereafter should not strive, For he would by his own Prerogative, Determine it the next time he had leisure, Commanding them, on pain of his displeasure, Not once to mention it in the mean space. Then straight took Boat, and landed at this place, With whom in company is gone the Pope, Who are arrived on Earth by this, and hope To bring good tidings unto Hell again From all their Factors that on Earth remain. For Whom (said th' Angel) wilt thou give thy voice, Or which will Pluto (thinkest thou) make his choice? I'm sure (said Charon) Judas is the Man, (Let proud Achitophel do what he can) For his true service and great labour spent On Hell's behalf in former Parliament. I charge thee Charon (said my powerful Guide) Since leisure doth permit thee at this tide, Declare what Parliament, and for what reason Did Pluto call the same, and since that season What acts did Judas, which his fame did raise So high, that he deserves so much thy praise. Like to a fretted Ape that mops and mows, Or like a Baboons fond faced antique shows, Simile. Or like a Bull that's chewing of his cudd, So Charon fares: Then fast into the mud He runs his Boat, with all the force of Oar, And stepping forth, sits on the Stygian shore. Then like the grumbling of some angry Cur, Simile. His slabbered Chaps at last began to stir, Sounding like one within an empty Tub, At length these words were blustered by this Cub. Charon's true tale. HE needs must run the Devil drives (they say) But when the Heaven's command, the Devils obey, And (though per force) yet list and I will tell The truest tale that e'er was told in Hell. When Christ (that's called the Son of God) was born, Our Pluto thinking for to work him scorn, To further his determinated ends, He summoned the chiefest of his Fiends, And though they sat in Council day by day, Yet all that ever they could plot, or say, Can not prevail against that Heavenly Seed, Whom Men call Saviour, as he is indeed, Until full time was come, or he the rather Offered himself, sweet Incense to his Father, To satisfy his Justice once for all, Who lost his favour by frail Adam's fall. But where he gave our Prince one wound before, He at his Death, gave many Millions more. Each Christian now dares challenge him the field, And by Faith: force, enforce him for to yield. The cause of Hell's former Parliament. Our Prince was wounded full upon the face, And galled with such eminent disgrace, Came down to Hell, with Countenance so grim, That scarce his Proserpina durst speak to him; But not the boldest or most hardy Spirit That could be absent, would come in his sight. His choler something post; incontinent, He calls his chiefest Lords to Parliament, For to devise how to suppress Christ's Word, Which had already as a conquering sword, So ranged about the World like a Commander, That it was talked on more than Alexander. Some said it must be this way, Some, be that; With eager minds both night and day they sat. (Quoth Pluto) though in Hell be plaguy Wits, Yet there's not one that in this Council sits Hath leveled right, or shot just in the white. At last stood up an old Gray-headed Spirit, An ancient devil, that winks still with one eye, By name he's called Swordly Policy; One so well red in Hell's prognostic School, No mortal man can take him for a Fool; He made obeisance, stooping so low down, Until he made the table kiss his crown; Then with a hem or two, to clear his throat, He sung to Pluto, this wellpleasing Note. Great Prince (said he) although my face be old, Worldly Policy's Counsel. Yet shall my counsel be more worth than Gold. Thou know'st that Christian people make great odds Between us Devils, and th' immortal Gods: If we intent for to delude their sight, We must transform ourselves from black, to white, Seeming as though we came to them from Heaven, So by this means, they shall be quite bereaven To seek the right way, and be led by us; The platform of my drift is framed thus; Some old faced Devil, whereof we have good choice, Of subtle heart, but singular of voice, Shall stand for Peter, Now this is my plot, In Peter's stead, to place Iscariot. The only Man, befitting such a place, For he'll betray even Jesus to his face. Thou know'st Religion is as yet but young, Suppress it therefore, e'er it grow too strong. I speak not this, thy Tutor for to be, For all I have (Great Prince) proceeds from thee, But having shown my duty, from my breast, My part is played, do thou direct the rest. My Friend (said Pluto) thou hast pleased me well, I henceforth make thee Chancellor of Hell. And forthwith Judas he did thither call, Who being placed i'th' middle of the Hall; Judas (said he) because I have thee found Pluto his Commission to ludas. Unto my service always firm and sound, I mean t' employ thee, and I here install Thee upon Earth our Vicar General. Great Rome shall be thy Seat, as Peter's Heir, Thou shalt inherit both his Keys and Chair. But when thou namest thyself, be sure thou liest, And write thyself, Servant of Jesus Christ. So by that▪ means, men shall be drawn by thee, To prostitute their Souls to Hell and me. In Bishop's habit shalt thou go each day, But in thy Robes shalt be more rich than they. Thou Keys, and Crosier-staff, in hands shalt bear, And Golden Sandals on thy feet shalt wear. No common Crown shall serve, thou shalt in stead Be triple-crowned, and Myturd on thy head; That who so names, what on thy head he seethe, May have the Devils T— betwixt his teeth. Thou shalt not marry during all thy life, For many Whores are sweeter than one Wife: Such Brood as on their wombs thou shalt beget, Make thy great Cardinals, let them be set In chiefest places, next to thy right hand, They may be always ready at command. Fear nothing, never doubt in aught to err, For Worldly Policy thy Counsellor Shall thee instruct; and see that no disgrace Befall thyself nor any in thy place. All Pluto's Subjects shall on thee attend, With help from Hell; thou shalt not need to send. Give pardons for all Sins, nay, sell them rather, For Whoredom, Murder, though one kill his Father, Commit Theft, Incest, or what ever thing, To any Subject that shall kill his King. Thus shalt thou heap up Wealth in endless store By Bribes, and gifts, from every Knave or Whore. Thus wealthy Men from Sin shall never cease, In hope their pelf will purchase their release. Imitate me thy Prince, for thou dost know, That Fercer-like I give Christ blow for blow, And though I could not overcome by might, Yet ceased I not to work my utmost spite: So though thy aim do sometimes chance to miss, Yet faint nor, but molest both him and his. Strike the best Christian always on the face, And by all means work virtuous Men disgrace. Though ne'er so small their fault, yet shalt thou make Them baited be, like Bulls at every stake. Suppress Religion, but be sure t'advance Found Superstition, and Ignorance. Make Laws, and Statutes, wherein leted be death For him that whispers but the smallest breath Against thy Supreme Power, so Mighty Nations Shall fear thy Bulls, and Excommunications. Let Dirges, Masses, and such trash be brought Into the Churches as are good for nought, But t' fill men's minds with vain fantastic toys, As Drums and Ratles please young gills and Boys. The end of Pluto's Oration. This said, Don Pluto sat down in his place, For whilst he spoke he stood up all the space. Judaa by signs did gratify his Lord, For he made curtsies, but spoke ne'er a word. Then it was devised how this great Potentate, judas his State, Should be conveyed unto his Chair of State, Some saided were fitting that the Great Iscarios, Triumphant like should have a stately Chariot. Some said, by water he might better go: But I denied, and swore I would not row So far from Styx, although it be not far, For Styx and Tiber, two near neighbours are: But loss might come hereby, and you may note, And we lose Souls by wanting of my Boat. One cried a Coach, and this was liked well, The first that e'er was known was made in Hell, Straight six Pegasian Sprights were ready pressed, To draw the Coach, in Harness richly dressed, Despite was Coachman, whose commanding hand Did guide the reigns, and make them go or stand And Attendants. At every check, who with his knotty whip, Would now and then, cause them curvet and skip. He had so his Postillian Vain Desire, A vile ambirious Dwarff, who to be higher Doth toil, and moil, in mire and dirt full oft, And yet regards not, so he be aloft. In th' one end Judas sits, in th' other sat Pride, with a plume of feachers in his Hat. In one Boot sat Murder and Treachery, In th' other Drunkenness and Lechery, Twelve Lackeys ran close by the Coaches side, As pestilent as any there, but Pride, Ten thousand Furies road before and after, Some making antique tricks, provoking laughter, So thus attended mighty Judas road, And straight in Rome was honoured as God: And reason good, who else durst be so brisk To tread upon the Asp and Basilisque? At first he spreads abroad his potent Theme, Charging the World to Title him Supreme. The haughty Spaniard he began to puff, And swore by's Rapier and great Spanish Ruff, Spain is startled. That with the Prelate's pride he would be even, Scorning to stoop to any under Heaven. To stop whose mouth, Judas did forthwith call On Pride, who newly was made Cardinal, And sent him Lord Ambassador to Spain, The scope of whose Embassage did contain, That Spain should pardons have for Usurpation, And Pride should be no sin unto that Nation. He likewise from his Hollowness did bring, Spain's Popish Title: The Catholic King. The Cardinal in Spain such favour gained, That by the King he straight was entertained In sumptuous manner: who did likewise give Him maintenance in Spain whilst he should live. This news from Spain went posting into France, France fiels. Who g●●l'd therewith upon great Horses prance Into the fields, threatening not only Rome, But all that took their parts in Christendom; Whose fiery fury Judas to prevent, Sent an Ambassador incontinent, Who brought them pardons for Idolatry, Faint-hearted Cowardice, and Lechery, Though they should worship breathless stones and stocks, And Whore, and wanton till they got the Pox, Yet should these be no sins unto that Nation, But only counted for their Country's fashion. These things buzzed into their fantastic heads, The Apes return from fields, unto their beds. This done th' Ambassadors return again, The one from France, the other forth of Spain, The Spaniard sent (in token of contrition) Both are quieted. Word, he would found the Spanish Inquisition. The French sent word to Rome, he would advance The Pope's Supremacy throughout all France. By imitation of these two great Kings, He in short time, into subjection brings, All Christendom, within the Papal power, T'imbrew themselves in lust with- Babel's Whore. Thus lulled a-sleep with poison of her Cup, Of which all Christian Nations took a sup: Hell danced for joy, for Souls did seldom cease, To fill my Boat, and glut Hell with increase: From Sweathland, Poland, Holland, Germany, From Denmark, Ireland, and fair Albany Came Popish Proselytes in flocks to Hell: It were impossible the number tell. Thus it continued many hundred years, Until at length, in Germany appears Some glimpse o'th' Gospel, and to England came King Henry, called the eighth King of that name. In whose last years, and his son Edward's Reign Hells Kingdom lost in England: But again King Edward dead, Queen Mary got the Crown, Our hopes revive, the Gospel's trodden down. Oh than our friends did flourish in the Court, Gardiner and Bonner. London and Winchester did make us sport. My Boat and I, on Thames were as well known, As here upon this River of our own. But as for Lambeth, Canterbury's seat, Old Cranmer left thereon such holy sweat As I had rather spend my time in Hell, Than one hours' space, be bound t'abide that smell. Well, all Queen Maries days, Smithfield did flame With fire and Faggots, one may without shame Report that Smithfield had more Roast therein Than all Pie-corner, yet commit no sin. But sure I think, that blood for vengeance cried 'Gainst Rome and Hell, for then Queen Mary died: Whose too stout sister, banished the Pope, Q. Eliz. His Masspriests suffering penance in a Rope. And although Rome did oft stout spirits send, With strange devises for to work her end, Yet could they ne'er prevail, good reason why, For she had help which man could not espy. As in her life, so did she at her death Her Crown and Kingdom unto one bequeath As far declining from Rome's power as she, As by his own hand-writing you may see, Whose Son (Great Charles) is of his father's mind, So that we are almost past hope to find Any redress in England: yet we hopeed That when their King had with Queen Mary coped, We should have gotten in by means of France, And by Queen Maries means our cause advance, But she's more like to Mary Christ's dear Mother, Than their last Marry Queen, or any other. Yet under colour of that Flower de Luce, Our Priests make bold to chatter and seduce: So that in England we have better store Of Papists now, than threescore years before. By this, and other grievous sins we know, Which in that Land do plentifully flow, We hope such Bills against them to prefer As shall take place at God's Tribunal Barr. As he is merciful, so is he just: And Sinnets certainly he punish must. If We for one sin were cast down to Hell, And they unpunished pass; he doth not well. For our one sin, we'll prove at least a score Embraced by them, if not a thousand more: We stay but till our Prince return again, And then we hope to work their utter bane. Now have I done, I can no longer stay, For Pluto calls, and I must needs obey. Charon's Tale ends. Thus with a clownish tone his tale he ends, Then to his rusty Boat in haste he wends. My Angel smiled to see this hasty Devil, How swift are they (said he) to run to evil? But we'll prevent their haste, and be in Hell Before they come to hear Achitophel Dispute with Judas, for the Speakers place, And yet we'll be concealed all the space. Then were we there, before one could devise To think one thought, or twinkle with one's eyes. The place was wondrous spacious, dark as night, Hell described. But that Sulphureous fire did give some light. The noise was marvellous, the shrieks and howls, Which pierced our ears, from Hell-tormented Souls. The several torments I cannot declare, But wish all men take heed, they come not there. Scarce had we viewed this ghastly spacious round But that we heard a strange disordered sound, Much like the noise of some Rebellious rout, Such burly burly was made all about. By which we guest, that place was then prepared Against the Disputation should be heard. And as we thought, so did the matter prove, A Parliament in Hell. For straight came Pluto, and with him his Love, With whom such multitudes of Devils came As it is passed all cunning for to the name. The Rabble set, in some disordered order, There stood up one, I think 'twas Hell's Recorder, Who after Declaration of the cause Of this their meeting, took a little pause, Then roaring out aloud, he did proclaim, In their great Prince, Don Pluto's dreadful name, That none should dare, once silence for to break Whilst the two Disputants had aught to speak. This said: Ahithophel appeared in place, And then came Judas, with a shameless grace, Who straight began in vile unmannered sort Without leave asked, t' break silence in the Court. But Pluto, sharply him then reprehended, Although (said he) thou art to be commended For much good service, yet I must thee tell, Thou art much younger than Ahithophel, So that when he his mind hath first declared (My friend) at large thou likewise shalt be heard. This caused Judas cease; then straight began Ahithophel to stroke his beard, and than, Obeisance made, with thanks unto his Prince, He thus begun. Ahithophels' Oration. Most dreadful Monarch, since It is thy pleasure, so far me to grace, To give me such pre-eminence of place, And you my Lords, and fellow Furies all, By him assembled, in this spacious Hall, Give me but leave t'unfold my mortal life, Then judge of me, this Judas, and our strife. My famous Counsel unto David, (King Of mighty Judah) through the Word did ring, He, and his Princes, did my cousnel follow More than the Oracles of great Apollo. No thing was done, which pleased not me well, No Counsel then, but from Ahithophel. Thus did I flourish in that famous Court For many years, as Scriptures do report: Until proud Absalon began t' rebel, Oh then began thy fall, Ahithophel. For though my Master was King, Prophet, Priest, And more than that, the Type of Jesus Christ, Yet did I (Oh abominable thing) Seek to betray this Prophet, Priest, and King. Read Histories and Scriptures, o'er and o'er, And you shall never find the like before. And yet not satisfied with this great evil, To show I loved my Sovereign Lord the Devil, I sacrificed to him my latest breath, So to make sure my everlasting death, Having a great desire with him to dwell, And, rather than see David, live in Hell. I know that many foolish Jacks and Gills, Have come to Hell: but sore against their wills, In hope to rid themselves from further pain; But I, of malice, and of proud disdain Did choose this place: because I was persuaded I should not meet my wronged Master David: Where I have dutifully ever since, Attended on the person of our Prince. Now having both Antiquity and fame Preceding Judas, I do hold it shame To stand in competition with a fool, Who ne'er was trained like me, in wisdom's school. I hope this is sufficient: and will try Which of us twain, Iscariot, or I, Deserve the more respect in each degree, And therefore judge, betwixt the fool and me. Ahithophels' Oration ends. Then sent the Devils out a mighty yell, Casting up firebrands, cried Ahithophel, Ahithophel, Ahithophel, cried they Must have the place, come, let us not delay To give our voices all with one consent He may be Speaker in this Parliament. Nay, soft (said Judas) you must hear me speak, Or else you cause our Prince his promise break: And when at full I have declared my mind, Then give your voices, unto him you find The best deserving, for our King and Hell, Whether to me, or proud Ahithophel. Then Pluto said, they could not well deny His reasonable suit, therefore reply With expedition, what thou hast to say, For often danger is bred by delay. Thus Judas having leave, did forthwith rise, And on Ahithophel did fix his eyes, judas his speech. I wonder (said he) this man hath a face, With me to make contention for this place, For I can cause him eat each word he spoke, And for his folly, me amends to make: One but half-witted, marking every word, May well perceive, they very much afford For my avail; for see how he gins Even at the first (fool like) to break his shins. He was of Counsel to a mighty King, A goodly Dish; nay more, to mend the thing, Not only King, but Prophet, and a Priest, And Type of that immortal Jesus Christ. In one of these thou art mistaken: why, He was no Priest, and therein dost thou lie, Now judge of this, and of the rest beside, He served the Type, and I, him Typified, He did the shadow, I the substance serve In all his life: and never from him swerve, But followed him, and was of credit such, I all his Treasure kept, though ne'er so much. He did betray an Earthly man: but I A heavenly wight, and King of Majesty. Now judge, I pray, if our deserts be even, He betrayed Man, But I great God of Heaven. Did ever any do the like, beside Myself, and thee (great Belzebub) in pride? I imitate thyself, for thine was done Against the Father, mine against the Son, In one thing we agree all three the most, We all did sin against the Holy Ghost. But as my sin was equal unto thine, Ahithophels' cannot compare with mine, I did deserve not only to be Pope, But with great Belzebub himself to cope, Much more to stand at this same time, for place, With such a slave, I do myself disgrace. And therefore choose you whom you list, for me, I scorn the matter should in balance be. judas his speech ends. And so in fury from the place he fling, Having their ears with these his speeches stung. And when they saw how fiercely he departed, It made Ahithophel to seem faint-hearted. But all were mute, and dumb, till Pluto's self Began to speak, (said he) this peevish elf, I mean Iscariot, hath but truly said, And for his service should be ill paid, If we should not reward him with this place, Or any other, though of greater grace. And as for thee Ahithophel, I'll see By some means else, to grace and honour thee. This said, they all consent, and gave their voices For Judas, which they yielded with fearful noises, Crying, a Judas, Judas, all about, And so broke up this Court of hellish rout. Thus having seen Hell's scope, and full intent, We haste to Heaven, against the Parliament, Which we imagined would begin with speed, And as we thought, so did it prove indeed: For as we came without the Walls, (we found) Of New-Jerusalem, a spacious ground New jerusalem. All full of seats, in order finely set, Some white as Ivory, some black as Jet, But none might come thereto by a great space, Without leave got, of them who kept the place, Which were strong Angels, who were set to guard The place from comers, so I was debarred From entrance in, until my Angel said He must come in; who heard, was straight obeyed. Then sat we down upon a bank of Roses, As wearied men are wont to take reposes, Until such time as some few hours were spent Before th' appointed time of Parliament: But I being weak of nature, could not keep My orewaked eyelids open, but fell asleep: Wherein such heavenly Visions did bewrap me, As I desired such sleep might still benap me. There did the Lamb and Lion play together, The Dove and Falcon, Dog and Hare, yet neither, The Lion, Lamb, Dove, Falcon, Dog, or Hare Showed any enmity, or malice there, But were as Loving one unto another, As any Sister to her dearest Brother. With many slumbers of such sweet delight, I passed the quantity of one whole night, Yet is no night, nor darkness in that place, For it was light as Sunshine, all the space. But when my Angel saw it time to wake me, He took me by the elbow, and did shake me, Saying, 'tis time to rouse, for now (said he) The time approaches, wherein thou shalt see, The houses set, and all the Devils at hand, To urge their bills against thy Native Land: Where thou shalt be admitted t' speak thy mind When just occasion thou shalt see or find. Alas (said I) I am but Earthly mould And dare not think, much less to speak, be bold. The Devils are fearful, yet for them I care not, But before Heaven and glorious wights, I dare not. Then he rebuked me, saying, Thou canst tell That I preserved thee from the powers of Hell, And that at my command thou wast let in Into this place, where none (like thee in Sin) Did ever enter, therefore never doubt To answer, for myself will help thee out. With that recomforted, I promised I▪ Would (by him prompt) make answer, and reply For my poor Country; so thou must (said he) For it is determined that it so shall be. I am content (said I) then did we hear, Such Music, as might ravish mortal ear, Then Thunder, Lightning, and such streaks of fire Were hurled abroad, as made me to admire What was the cause; well now the Lamb (said he) The Lamb takes his place in Parliament. Doth take his place, and sit unseen: yet see All passages, what here is said or done More perfectly than e'er thou saw'st the Sun. Then Thunder ceased, and Music played again, When I beheld a brave and goodly train Of glorified Saints, appear in view, (I ne'er did see men's faces of such hue) Who filled all the seats of Ivory white, In such grave order, that bred sweet delight, I never saw so brave a sight before, Nor mortal eye was e'er delighted more. we'll, they being set, the Music then did cease, And for a space, there was a silent peace: Until a Trumpets sound was heard from high, Which done, a Royal voice did by and by Pronounce these words: My Faithful servants, here The damned Fiends of Hell will straight appear To cry for Justice 'gainst that sinful Land, England. Which I have loved as my own right hand; And cannot hate it, if they would be driven To leave their vices, and look up to Heaven: Which is as much offended with their crimes, As with Jerusalem in former times. For as their Barns, and Coffers fill with store, So do their sins abound, and gather more. So that the devils will find sufficient cause Of punishment, for breach of all our Laws. You shall their bills, and all such answers take, As any person to the same shall make, Which you in Parliament shall read and see, But you the censure shall refer to me: So that no Statute shall be made, or done, Before I grant for it Commission. This said, we presently did hear a Din, The British Island is indicted. Crying, on, on apace, in in, in in; Then came grim Pluto rushing in, with whom, Came hand in hand the powerful Pope of Rome, Accompanied with such a hellish Rabble, As to account Arithmeticks not able: Who being seated, Judas up did stand, Crying for Justice on the British Land; If God be just (said he) we Justice crave, That they with us might equal Justice have. I have brought Witnesses to prove their sin, Desiring they may be admitted in. Some of their Witnesses I here will name, Enter the Witnesses. Who with their bills, they brought to prove the same. They brought to prove Pride. Fabius', who in his life swelled with pride, Swallowed a hair in Milk, whereof he died. Poppeia, Nero's Concubine of old, Who shod her Horse's feet with burnished Gold. The Emperor Dioclesian likewise came, Who (brother to the Sun) himself did name. To prove Covetousness. THey brought Hermocrates, who at his death Did all his goods unto himself bequeath. Croesus and eke Caligula were there, Whose covetous Actions did surpass compare. Demonica, who Ephesus for gain Sold, and with weight of that same Gold was slain. To prove Anger. GReat Alexander, who in 's angry mood Killed Clitus his old Counsellor, and good. And Dionysius, who o'ercomed with rage, Stabbed to the heart his most indulgent Page. Periander who with furious anger led His most dear Wife unkindly murdered. To prove Drunkenness. THe Tyrant Dionysius, whose delight In too much drinking, caused him lose his sight: Aruntius who in beastly drunken fit With his own Daughter incest did commit. And Ptolemy, who with excess oppressed Slew both his Parents, and died like a beast. To prove Disdain. GReat Anthony, who caused Tully's head Be set to scorn, when Cicero was dead. Xenophon, Demosthenes, and Plato wise, Who each to other, did strange scoffs devise. And Geta, and Antonius, brethren born, Who each killed other, through their private scorn. To prove vain Delight. SArdanapalus pleasures true sworn guest, Who from a man was changed to a beast. Xerxes who unto none would give his Treasure, But t' such as could invent new kinds of pleasure. Demetrius who to pleasure was so given, That from his Country he was forced and driven. To prove Lust. QUeen Cleopatra whom her brother used, And both her husband, and herself abused. Thalestris, who did twenty five days ride To lie one night by Alexander's side. Claudius, who of his sister made no spare. Semiramis, who used her Son and Heir. To prove Blasphemy. PHer●cides, who did great God despise, Then eat with Lice, most miserably dies. Lucian the Atheist, likewise God denied, Who torn by Dogs in pieces, justly died. Justinian, who did slightly God regard, Became a fool, and died with that reward. To prove Idolatry. THey brought so many for to prove this same, That I admired, and therefore cease to name. All these (said Judas) ready are to prove The English Nation do embrace and love All these forenamed sins, and Millions more, As well as we, who damned are therefore. The old World of God's Justice yet can tell, Niniveh and Babylon can witness well; Thus Sodom and Gomorrha, tokens bear That by his Justice they consumed were. Nay, his beloved people can declare How that Jerusalem he did not spare. And Judah's Lion yet can testify God's Justice spared not him, but he did die. And is it just that this so sinful Land Should find more favour▪ flourish still, and stand? If that his Justice he hath quite forgot, Then let him favour us, we feel it not. Or if his Mercy hath o'r-drowned it quite, Then let him turn our Tortures to delight: Or else impartial always let him prove, And not for sin, some punish, and some love. I wish some of that Land were in this place, That we might plead our causes face to face. Then spoke my Guide, I here have brought a man, The Poet's plea for his Native Country. To answer for his Country what he can. With that prostrated on the ground I fell; (Said I) These witnesses are all of Hell. Therefore according to our English Laws I might except against them and their cause. But great Celestial Saints, I dare not move it, For they have nothing said, but they may prove it. There is no sin, these Hellish Fiends do name, But in our Land abundantly the same Doth overrun it: yet God doth not will For any sin, a Sinner straight to kill. He in his Mercy, always shakes the Wand, Before in Justice, he consume a Land. Thus with the old World, it is understood, He sweetly dealt, before he brought the Flood. With Babylon, Niniveh, Jerusalem, Sodom, Gomorrah: And as so with them, Even so to us he hath fair warning given, That by that Means we might from sin be driven; For often our distressed Sinsick Land Is scorched by the Taper of his hand. And if these warnings cause us not t' renew Plague. Our lives, we may fear Judgements will ensue. But as a Woman which at Barr doth stand, Simile. And is commanded to hold up her hand, Then being asked what she can reply To stay her sentence, that she should not die, She falling down, doth openly confess, That as the Jury found her, so no less She hath deserved death, and Guilty stands Ready to suffer, when the Judge commands: But yet his Lordship's favour she doth crave, He would be pleased for to let her have The benefit of her increasing Womb, Before the execution of her Doom. It is not fit, the Judge doth then reply, For Mother's fault, the guiltless Child should die, Because hereafter (if God send it health) It may do service to the Commonwealth; And therefore grants the Woman a Reprieve, That till she be delivered, she may live. Even so, I here in my poor Nations name Plead guilty, and confess that for the same It stands condemned to th' fire, and know not why It should not execution have, and die; But that within it is some unknown birth Of holy fruit, as yet not blossomed forth, Which may hereafter (if God bless it with health) Prove to God's glory, and to th' Commonwealth A special Member; therefore we desire, Till it be born, to spare us from the fire: Which being done, let execution come, And all the World receive the fiery doom. Until which time, we trust the Lord will prove (As he hath promised) the God of Love, And keep his Justice in his powerful hand, But pour his Mercy, on us, and our Land, That we thereby may once again be driven To leave our sins, and set our minds on Heaven. The Devil's Justice cry, I Mercy crave, And either party hope their suit to have; But sure, I shall obtain, they shall mistake, For I beg Mercy, for Christ Jesus sake. Whereat the Devils trembled; but that face Which never yet had any spark of grace, Hell's Speaker Judas, he began to cry God wanteth Justice, if they do not die, And bawling Lawyer like, made such a do, I think he would have bawled until now, But that St. Michael caused him cease his prate, Teaching him Manners with a broken pate. Then stood up good St. Paul, who thus Disputes; St. Paul's Plea. Of all Jehovahs mighty Attributes, He loveth Mercy, though he Justice show, Unto some sinful people's overthrow, Yet is that unto some forsaken place Which is past hope, and barren of all grace. What though this Land in many sins abound? Yet in this place they near the Gospel's sound, Which of itself, sufficient is to gain, A sinful Soul, althoughed be died in grain. And therefore (blessed Saints) if you consent For this time we'll adjourn this Parliament, And send these bawling fairies into Hell, Me thinks this Englishman hath pleaded well. For since it was jehovahs sacred mind To send them plagues, we hope we shall them find Hereafter penitent, and grace obtain, Or otherwise, they but prolong their pain. With that the Saints did yield their full consent The Parliament is adjourned. For that time to adjourn the Parliament; But promised Pluto that if Mercy fail To work redress, than Justice shall prevail. With that the Devils were compelled again Unto their place of everlasting pain: And in a Moment I could not espy A Creature left besides my Guide and I; Which made me stand as one full sore amazed, Or like a man beside his wits I gazed. My Angel (smiling said) poor mortal wights, How quickly are you daunted in your sprights? Take courage man, and bear a manly heart, For I will set thee safe before we part, Where first I found thee, therefore let us haste, For time is precious, which we must not waste. Then as we came without the Gates of Heaven, There laid the heap of stones that brained St. Steven, With many more, But yet I marked one Had writ upon't The Philosophers stone, Which taking in my hand, I did behold, (Said I) is this the stone turns all to Gold? It is, (said he) How comes it then (said I) That mortal men do seek to come thereby By Chemistry, whereas it only lies Within this place, and not below the skies? Because they're fools (said he) for none may come To purchase it, although there have been some In former times, which did obtain the same, Philosophers, of whom it bears the name; But such they were, as not the like is found These sinful days, to live upon the ground. For there's no mortal can obtain this Stone, Unless he be of Conversation one, How they must be qualified that can obtain the Philosopher's stone. As will not put the same to any use, Which may redound to Commonwealths abuse: Nor to his profit must convert the same, Either for lucre, pleasure, ease, or Game. Such as to no vain earthly thing is given, Ort ' love the World or pleasure can be driven. As will by no means bribes, or gifts receive, Although thereby the whole World he might have: Nor will to any use employ this Stone, But for the Church, and Commonwealth alone. If thou dost find thyself such one to be, Take thou the Stone, it doth belong to thee. I must confess (said I) I much desire To have the same, and did intent t' require It at thy hands, but henceforth will not crave it, Because I far unworthy am to have it: So difficult a thing it seems to me, That such a man upon the Earth should be. Though I could all the rest; yet could I scant Forbear to help my Wife, or Child in want. Nay, that one may with safety do (said he) Or ought belongs to his necessity: But any other way must not exceed, Unless his Country, or Religion bleed For want of help, and in such case he may Unto his bounty give access, and way. And because I will thee some favour show, A little taste thereof I will bestow Upon thee straight, which I will cause thee drink, Whereby thou shalt esteem thyself, and think, Thou art more happy, by one Cup of Wine, Than if the best Town on the Earth were thine. This said, he took the Stone into his hand, And bruised a piece thereof as small as sand: Then straightway did appear a Cup of Wine To come in presence, by his power Divine, He cast the bruised Stone into the Cup, And at one draught, he made me drink it up. What have I gained by this? I know no more (Said I) by drinking this, than heretofore. Then mark (said he) when a Religious King Shall want supply of Gold for any thing Which tends to countries', or Religion's gain, And knows not how such Treasure to obtain, Unless he drain it from his Subjects backs, Who are o'rburthened with Rents and Racks, Do but thy mind to such a Prince unsold, And every word thou speakest shall turn to Gold. So shalt thou cure thy Royal King of care, And from poor Commons purchase many a prayer, When thou shalt multiply their Prince's store, Yet they, nor theirs, be burdened therefore. In this case shall thy words only prevail, And turn to Gold: but in all other fail. I never shall make trial of this thing, Nor come (said I) in presence of a King; I lead my life within an obscure place, And in the World have no great name, or grace, So once (said he) was Joseph in a pit, Yet afterwards in higher place did sit In Pharaoh's Court, the greatest in his Land, And faithful proved, in all he took in hand. God always works by Men of low degree, And simple means, that Men may know it is he That acteth all, can raise the lowly one, As David, from a Sheephook to a Throne. But now remember where I first thee found, And here I leave thee on the selfsame ground; Ponder these things, and when thou findest them true, Remember God, and me, And so Adieu. With that I roused myself, but could espy No body in the place, but God and I, As goes the Proverb: only there I found A Scroll of written paper on the ground, Which taking in my hand, I did begin To read the same, and found these words therein The Scroll. That thou must know thy foresaid Vision's true, These shall be signs, and shortly shall ensue; For thou shalt free thy native Commonwealth From begging Rogues, and Thiefs that live by stealth, In driving Drones and sluggards from their hives, And placing Bees of more laborious lives. And by Heaven's help, within few years to come Shalt see thy King, Monarch of Christendom. With other things, of excellence most rare, Which I to thee hereafter will declare. M. A. Which having read, I blushed, and looked about me, Fearing some man had writ the same to flout me; But spying none, I mused how this could be, That such employments were reserved for me: At which amazed, I know not by what chance My Spirits failing, I fell in a trance, Wherein (I thought) unto me did appear, A lovely Wight, with grave and sober cheer. St. John's speech. Mortal (said he) I charge thee to resort With all speed possible unto the Court, And there declare unto Great Britain's King, That I have sent thee to declare this thing. If he demand my name, say it is John Who wrote the Book of Revelation. Then tell him, in the Numbers he may read Numb. 24 v. 17. How that a Wizard (Balaam) prophesied Of Jesus Christ: And likewise it appears, (How that one Merlin, who lived many years Ago in Britain) by some old Records, Did prophecy in these, or such like words. A Prophecy of Merlin's. After the many eruptions in this Land By foreign Kings: yet let men understand, The time shall come, that in despite of them, Our Kings shall wear Brutus' ancient Diadem. If this be true, as it appears no less, How could a Witch, or Devil, better guests? It is well known, how that in time of old, Brute (as a Monarch) did all Britain hold. And that his seed and issue ruled the same, Until the Gospel into Britain came; And was embraced wholly through the Land, So that Brutus' Monarchy did thereby stand, Not only having all one King alone, But all consenting in Religion. But Brute, unto his children did divide His Monarchy; which did not long abide After the Gospel flourished: for even then The Devil envying th' happiness of Men, Began to sow his Tares amongst this Corn, So that Brutus' children they begun to scorn Each others happiness; and so brought in Strangers to Rule: (the punishment of Sin) By which unlucky, dismal, fatal chance, Came many Rulers, and much Ignorance. So that ten Kings at once did Sceptres sway, Ten Kings at once in Britain. And true Religion daily did decay. Which God (in Mercy) minding to repair, Hath moulded for old Brute, a son and heir, Not only for to rule the Land alone, But to establish true Religion. But see, the Devil hath even now begun To screen the glory of this rising Sun; Doubting that if this Monarch should have peace, So that his Crown, and Subjects should increase, He would espy his own: and by and by Advance his Horns against proud Italy, Revel. 17. v. 16. Of which by Brute he is undoubted heir, K. Heir to Italy. And plant Religion, and Christ's Banners there. Which to prevent, the devil has Treason sown, Such, in that Kingdom yet was never known. The last he plotted (they have not forgot) Was that most horrible Black-powder Plot: But that, in competition cannot stand, With this White-powder Plot that 's now in hand. One Plot, I rather fear I might say plots, Besides that show of rising by the Scots, Which I commend not, but condemn, for Hell Is the Ringleader to all that rebel. God laid them open in that Treason Black; But White strikes dead, and yet it gives no crack. A White Powder plot more dangerous than the Black. The People's love (which is a Prince's heart) The Devil seeks to hatred to convert. The Devil's policy. The hand is lifted up to strike us down, He comes full near my head, who hits my crown. The Romanists him Governor admit, But as for Head they'll not acknowledge it. Papists deny the King's supremacy. And certainly Men will repute him dead, Who wants a Heart, or is without a Head. But they that take the one half of his right, Would also have the rest if that they might; And when they see their time, will have a cast To hazard all, or else to throw their last. Thus by degrees, this Plot he doth contrive, Because things rashly acted seldom thrive. But works digested with a solid brain, Are never impotent, or prove in vain. The Plot is Sable, though the colour 's White, Satan 's transformed to a Saint of light. And if prevention do it not withstand The platform 's laid, which will consume the Land. Which God foreseeing, (who doth all things see) Hath sent me down, to tell the same to thee, Knowing thou art thy King and Country's Lover, And therefore I here charge thee to discover The things intended; that advice may blot, This later, as the former Powder-plot. So that by stripping naked of the thing, Thou shalt do service to thy Royal King; Who, if he look therein, may well perceive, How those Arch-Traitors, who did proudly heave His Father's issue to have overthrown Were mild, compared with this against his own. For no such danger is in open Foes, As seeming Friends, who Plot our overthrows. But God who always stands his Servant's friend, Returns wrath on the Plotters in the end: Who having placed his Love upon this Crown, Will never suffer Treason pull it down, Until all be performed as he hath willed, Revel. 17. 16, 17. And what I prophesied be fulfilled. I John have spoken it, (say) it was I, Who never spoke, or writ, aught proved a . St. John's Speech ends. With that unto myself I came again, Much wondering, at the wand'ring of my brain, Casting about me many a meager look, At last a Bible in my hand I took, And found each word he said, was very true In both the Testaments, of old and new: For in the Numbers I did find it there, Ch. 24 17. Of Christ the Wizard Balaam did declare. Which thus unto myself I did apply, If Balaam of the King of Kings; then why May not our Merlin, (as in other things) Prophesy truly of our British Kings? And since the preterperfect did not fail, The future without question must prevail, When it is seconded by such a one As the true Prophet, (Christ's beloved) John. And seeing we foresee the Devil's Treason, We should prove Fools, and quite devoid of reason, If we should marry, eat, and drink, and stand, Until this Deluge overflow our Land. Or stand as Statues, made of helpless Lead, Until our fainting body lose her Head; Which being lost, by Treason's poisoned Dart, What hope of Safety is left for the Heart? Which to prevent, Great Heroes lend a hand, The Poet's zeal for his King and Country. Grave Senators of this our fruitful Land. Nay look (Great Charles) and tender thine own blood, Whereon depends our safety, and our good. As Subjects without King are nothing, then, A King, is King of nothing, wanting Men. And as good lose a man as lose his heart Which guideth all, and is the noblest part. Me think I hear that Zedekiah swears, 1 Kings 22. 24. He presently will have me by the ears, As once he hit Micaiah on the cheek, When (by good counsel,) he did truly seek To save his King from fore-seen death indeed, Which he neglecting, followed with speed. And yet a poor Micaiah must not fear To speak the truth for a sound box o' th' ear. Then Zoilus he steps in, and thus doth say, I must not speak of Scripture, I am Lay: And it is not lawful for a Layman's tongue To speak of Scripture, or aught doth belong To State occasions; Zoilus, hold thy prate, Each Subject hath a property i' th' State: And cursed be his tongue in hateful Hell, Who knows of Treason, and yet-will not tell; Or will not counsel give (under control) For safety of his Prince's life, or soul; Subjects are bound to speak in these cases. Or doth esteem his own honour, or wealth, Before his Sovereign's safety and his health. Though Haman hold his tongue, and all conceal, Good Mordecai will his plots reveal. Esther 6. v. 2. But yet I hope our Caesar need not fear A Zedekiah or a Haman here: Which if there be, all loyal Subjects than Kneel down, and wish them Haman's end. Amen. Si Deus nobiscum, quis contra nos. GEORGE MAY. FINIS. A Dialogue between the Author and the World. World. WHo wrote this Book? Au. A friend of mine a Poet. W. Oh then he's poor. A. Alas for woe, I know it. W. I care not for such men. A. nor they for thee. W. Why, greatest Monarches are in love with me: For those I love I fill with wealth and store. A. Yet (wanting Virtue) these but make them poor. W. Nay wealth buys all things. A. wicked World thou liest; Thy Prince could not obtain of Jesus Christ, The smallest bending of his humble knee, For all the wealth and glory was in thee. W. I speak of Earthly things, and not of Heaven. A. Whose joys on Earth, of Heavenly joy's bereaven. W. I see thou art grown foolishly Divine. A. Yea: and therein more wise than thou or thine. W. Why sayest thou so? thou seest the Lawyers dare Not speak a word against me at the Bar, Nor any one of ne'er so high degree; The Pulpits dare not speak; although they see; I charge thee then, obey at my command, As thou dost look for favour at my hand. A. Avaunt vain World, I laugh in scorn, thy folly, Thy frenzy doth proceed from Melancholy, Which doth distil from thy Earth-heavy brain, Thou art half mad, thy wits are in the wain, They Leaden heels are nailed to Earth below, And higher things art not inur'd to know. W. What art thou, not of Adam? this my womb First gave him birth, and afterwards a Tomb. A. Our Earth's gross substance from thy womb we have, But our best part shall never taste the Grave; Th' art like the Apple given to work him evil, A seeming Saint, but Factor for the Devil. W. What, was I not created before Man? Declare those Attributes belongs me than. A. God did create thee for the Creatures use, And not to prostitute thee to abuse; These are thy Attributes: A Sea of Glass, The world's Attributes. Pageant of fond delights, Vanities Ass, Labyrinth of Error, Gulf of grief, A Sty Of filthiness, A Vale of misery, A spectacle of woe, River of tears, A Cage of Scritch-owls, Den of VVolves and Bears, Whirlwind of passions, of idleness, A nest of Scorpions, Death's vast Wilderness, A painted Comedy, Delightsul madness, where's false delight, but right assured sadness, Uncertain pleasures, Fleeting fickle Wealth, Long heaviness, Short-joy, Unconstant health. These are thy Epithets; he's mad would have A Master to himself, of such a Slave. W. I'm glad I know't, Thou shalt not have a bed Whereon to lie, nor house to hid thy head. Honour and Riches shall be none of thine, Nor any thing, that I can say is mine. A. Thou art deceived, when thou hast done thy worst, They shall be blest, that are by thee accursed, My Saviour said, The Swallow hath a nest, But not the Son of Man wherein to rest. I care not for thy Riches, or thy honour, He's mad so loves the World to dote upon her. Love thou the Lord (my Soul) who sits above, Thou shalt have Honour, Riches, Peace, and Love Altiora peto. Meliora spero. Non est mortale quod opto. G. M. FINIS.