Youth's Comedy, OR THE SOULS TRIALS AND TRIUMPH: A Dramatic POEM, WITH Divers Meditations intermixed upon several Subjects. Set forth to Help and Encourage those that are seeking a HEAVENLY COUNTRY. By The Author of YOVTH'S TRAGEDY.  
Per varios casus per tot discrimina rerum  
Tendimus in coelum.—  〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Euripides. 
LONDON, Printed for Nath. Ponder at the Peacock in the Poultry near the Church. 1680.   

TO THE READER, Especially The Younger Sort.  
I Have writ these few Lines to encourage those who have set forth, and are Journeying towards a Heavenly Country, that so they may make a resolved and cheerful Progress therein, notwithstanding all the Difficulties, Oppositions, and Conflicts that they may meet withal. I have given brief hints of the usual Trials, Troubles, and Temptations, that are like to sally out upon those that travel this narrow way; and have sent in what Relief I have been enabled to afford for their Comfort, Succour and Support, with a Representation also of the blessed Success of those that hold on, and hold out therein, even a participation of that future Glory, which will abundantly make amends for all their Care, Pains, and Sufferings; desiring it may be as kindly entertained as 'tis friendly tendered. That I have writ such serious Matter in Verse, and cast it into this Mould, I hope will not be without its Advantage; for this manner of Writing may be a means to divert the Mind of Youth from such Poems and Books as tend only to the idle expense of Time, and the Corruption of good Manners. As also Truth in this Dress many times hath a freer access to some, than in another Mode.  
A Verse may find him, who a Sermon flies,  
And turn Delight into a Sacrifice.  Herbert. 
I know that, Pro captu lectoris habent sua fata libelli, according to the Candour, or Humour of the Reader, it will be accepted or censured. But I had rather (as one saith) hazard the Censure of some, than hinder the Good of others; only let me say this to the Captious: Quisquis es, hoc unum mihi da, Prodesse Juventae.  
If these Endeavours of mine may be made, through the Blessing of God, any ways profitable, it will be Matter of great Rejoicing unto  
Your Wellwisher T S.   

THE PREFACE.  
IT is recorded in the Scripture of Truth, That we must through much Tribulation enter into the Kingdom of God; Acts 14.22. No sooner doth the Soul set itself to seek a Heavenly Country, but it meets with Trials: sometimes new Converts meet with Assaults from Old Companions, who are tempting them either to return to their former Courses, or deriding them because they will not run with them to the same Excess of Riot. Sometimes it so falleth out, that they meet with sharp Trials from Parents and near Relations. Thus it was with that famous Italian Marquis, and so it is with several others. But though in this case all due Honour, Service, and Respect, is to be given to them, yet so as that it may be consistant with that Supreme Love and Obedience which we own to our Heavenly Father, See Luke 10.37. Sometimes they meet with Hot Persecution from Enemies: These I have mentioned in a short Paragraph, Page 46, 47. setting forth what was suffered by the Sincere Professors of Old, upon the defection of the Ten Tribes; amongst whom some did not only fall off from the true Worship of God themselves, but were active to persecute those that did adhere thereunto, as you may see, Hosea 5.1, 2. Agreeable to this is the same Persecution carried on by the Church of Rome; who may well be compared to them in point of Idolatrous Worship, and great rage against the truly Reform, loading them with opprobrious Language, as pag. 33, calling them Heretics, and such as forsake the Church, and persecuting them with great Cruelty: But this Scripture among others, may comfort those that are suffering under her Tyranny; 2 Tim. 2.12. If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: Speaking of Christ, concerning whose Kingdom I have hinted pag. 57, etc. And of which we have mention 2 Tim. 4.1. He shall judge both the quick and the dead, at his appearing and his Kingdom. Of this judging work see Revel. 11.18. As to the Destruction of his Enemies in that Scripture mentioned, see Revel. 19.11. etc. And as to the Reward he gives his Prophets and Saints, see Revel. 20.4. Concerning the Peace, Purity, and Largeness of this Kingdom, we read of it abundantly in the Prophets, especially in the Prophet Isa. And for the Restitution of all things therein, see Acts 3.11. I have for the most part followed Scripture Expressions in the Description of it. But I must not here enlarge concerning those other Trials the Soul meets with, from the World, from Self, from Desertions, from Satan, with what Relief the Soul hath under them, issue out of them, reward after them, I leave to be considered as presented in the following sheets.  
VALE.   

CORRIGENDA.  
PAge 1. line 2. for Souls read Soul; p. 18. l. ult add all after down; p. 43. l. 12. f. Soul r. Self; l. 13. f. Self r. Soul; p. 55. l. 14. f. God r. God's; p. 103. f. seeks r. seek; p. 108. l. 9 f. these r. those; p. 109. f. Sat r. State; p. 112. l. 19 r. bitter twice; p. 115 l. 5. f. comfort r. consort. As to Humane History and things of like nature, I present them only upon the Credit of Authors.   

THE PROLOGUE.  
THe great adventures of a Soul in love,  
With highest Beauty that doth shine above.  
The Conflicts sharp, and Travels undergone,  
On the behalf of this beloved one;  
The joyful issue, and the crowned event,  
Of all those Labours do these Scenes present.  
Inviting our Spectators for to press,  
With Zeal undaunted to this happiness.  
The Trials, Troubles, that you here may meet,  
Will make Enjoyments at the last more sweet:  
And all the Opposition of your Foes,  
Augment your glorious Triumph in the close.   

Youth's Comedy.  

The Souls contemplating upon the powerful work of Effectual Calling.  The Soul. So. 
WHy did the Patriarch Abram pass that Flood,  
Upon whose Banks, proud Babel sometimes stood?  
Why did he leave his own dear Native Soil,  
To seek a foreign, unknown Land, with toil?  
Why left he Father's House and Kindred dear?  
The God of Glory did to him appear.  
He that by powerful Word, to Darkness said,  
Let there be Light, and straight way gloomy shade  
Flies from his Face, and radiant Beams appear.  
Filling with Brightness all the Hemisphere.  
This God was he, that by his powerful Call  
Wrought Faith to follow, foll'ing to leave all:  
And by unsought for Grace did set him free,  
From those, that to dumb Idols bowed the Knee  
It's from this Grace, my Soul, and this command  
Thou now art traveling to the Holy Land.  
Those Beams that darted from his Face are such,  
As on thy Heart hath left a powerful touch;  
That as the trembling Needle seeks the Pole,  
So follows after him my restless Soul.  
What can redeemed Souls to God return?  
Lebanons' Cedars are too few to burn:  
And all the Beasts that on it ever came,  
Too mean, to cast into the hallowed flame:  
What is thine own, is all that we can bring,  
Through Grace accept it, whilst thy praise I sing.   

The Souls Epithalamium, or Nuptial Joy.  So. 

EXalted be that glorious Name,  
From worse than nothing that did raise  
This new created Heavenly frame,  
Oh bless his Grace, my Soul, always  
Whose Name is far beyond all praise.   

I that in Darkness once did lie,  
Blacker than was Egyptian night,  
Darkness i'th' abstract, once was I,  
On whom the Sun hath shined bright,  
And brought me into marv'llous light.   

I that in Dungeon, long had been,  
Strongly shut up, in unbelief,  
Yea, dead in trespasses and sin,  
Unsensible of any Grief,  
Have found from quickening Grace relief.   

The God of Love, which I did hate,  
Through wicked works, that I had done,  
By Grace hath changed my sad state,  
And reconciled me through his Son,  
And enmity, to peace hath won.   

The great Aethereal Prince, that reigns  
In wicked hearts, by proud commands,  
Did Captive lead me in dark chains;  
But he hath freed me from those Bands,  
Rescuing my Soul, with powerful hands.   

And now my Soul, since thou art free,  
Make haste away fly like the Dove,  
Till Face to Face, thou comest to see,  
The God of Grace, the God of Love,  
Whose Habitation is above.    

The Nuntius, or the Interpreter of that which follows:  Nun. 
WHen Israel's Seed, from Egypt's Land was brought,  
And their Salvation by a strong hand wrought.  
God led them through a howling Desert, waste  
A way about, to what they might have passed;  
Yet not about to them, but nearest path,  
To discipline them, and to try their faith,  
So whilst, new Converts, have affections strong,  
And cheerful hearts, raised with their marriage Song.  
God oftentimes, with trouble doth them prove  
To try the kindness of their Nuptial Love;  
And trains them by such trials, as are best  
To fit them for their work, and for their rest.   

The diffidence of the Flesh, arising from difficulties reasoned against by the Soul.  The Soul, The Body. So. 
WHy is it (my dear self) I often find  
Thou movest so slowly, lag'st so much behind.  Bo. 
This sandy Desert, with its scorching heat,  
Makes weary steps, and dreancheth all in sweat,  
I know not how to bear these parching beams,  
That beat upon my head, in fiery gleams.  So. 
Fly unto him that promiseth to be  
In weary Land, a shady rock to thee,  
And from Celestial Flame will guard thy head,  
And over it, a Cloud for covering spread.  Bo. 
What shall I do to quench my thirsty flesh,  
No moisture doth this desert land refresh.  So. 
He that will be a shade, in hottest gleams  
In greatest drought, will be refreshing streams;  
He'll make the Desert full of Pools to stand,  
And Water Springs, to rise in parched land.  Bo. 
How shall we in this barren waste be fed,  
It is a Land unsown, and void of Bread?  So. 
If God at present should not Bread afford,  
It is that we may live upon his Word,  
Either he'll give thee Bread to be thy food,  
Or bless unto thee what shall be as good.  Bo. 
But how shall we escape Arabian Bands,  
That rob and spoil, this way with cruel hands?  So. 
Come fear them not, with courage keep thy way,  
God is more glorious, than the Hills of prey.  
How apt are we with Israel to transgress,  
Whom God to prove, led through the Wilderness.  
Sometimes its Bread they want, and then they child,  
Wishing by Egypt's fleshpots they had died.  
God reins down Manna, desert grounds are spread  
About their Angry Tents, with Angel's Bread;  
Then want they Flesh, of Manna weary grow,  
God heaps of Quails about their Tents doth throw.  
Sometimes the thirsty Tribes for Water cry,  
Forgetting him that did their wants supply:  
Moses doth strike the Rock, it straightway rents,  
And from its flinty Entrails, Water sends;  
Whose gushing streams follows them where they go,  
And like a River in dry Land do flow.  
Then fear they Anak's Sons, and now they mourn,  
Crying, to Egypt let us back return.  
Thus did these Rebels tempt the Holy One,  
That had such great stupendious Wonders shown.  
Take heed, dear friend, too often to our grief,  
We ready are, to act their unbelief.   
Nuncius. Nun. 
AS the Empyreal Heaven doth abound,  
With sacred Mirth, when a lost sinners found,  
And winged Seraphims, with Cherubs bright,  
Fly forth to serve, and guard the Heirs of Light;  
So racking Grief fills the infornal Cave,  
And vengful Ire, makes rebel Angels rave  
Upon his new raised Foes, through Sable Air,  
Satan doth like a blazing Comet glare,  
And from malignant Eyes, such Rays forth sends,  
As dismal War, and great Distress portends;  
Being incensed with Rage, and high Disdain,  
Any should break from under his proud reign.  
And as he armed Sabaeans fierce of old,  
And in three Troops, ranged the Chaldeans bold;  
Leading them forth with plundering hands to prey,  
Upon Job's Cattle, and his Servants slay;  
And as from Rifts of dismal Clouds he threw,  
His envious fire, which Sheep, and Shepherds slew,  
And from the Desert, did with storms beset,  
The House wherein his feasting Children met;  
With horrid blast, causing a sudden fall,  
And in its ruins, overwhelmed them all.  
Thus as he did this Holy Man pursue,  
And Trials thick upon his Soul renew.  
So on new Converts, he Temptation slings;  
Swift like the Arrows, shot from Parthian Strings,  
And powers forth trouble on them, that he may  
Divert them from, or stop them in their way.  
But he that Wings, unto the Woman gave,  
And in a place of refuge, did her save;  
He that did cause the Earth to swallow down  
The Floods against her by the Dragon thrown.  
It's he that will her blessed seed secure,  
In all the conflicts that they here endure.  
It's he that carries his on eagle's Wings,  
And to the Land of promise safely brings.   

The Souls preparing for Trials.  Soul. Body. So. 
COme (my dear self) let's gird our Armour on,  
Prepare to fight, we shall be set upon,  
'Gainst Men and Devils, we must now engage,  
Who will assault us with inveterate rage:  
And in this expedition that we make,  
Let's know right well the way we are to take,  
Wise Chieftains, that great Armies do command,  
And are to march them through an Enemy's Land,  
They have their Maps, which do direct their way,  
That nothing unexpected may assay.  
What Woods, where Ambuscado's may be laid,  
What Hills and straits where passage may be stayed.  
What Rivers, with their breadth, and how they wind,  
What depths they are, and where they Fords may find,  
What barren Wastes, that Armies can't relieve,  
And what strong Towns, that may disturbance give,  
That all things being thus in view contrived,  
They may in time, fit remedies provide.  
So Fellow Soldier, let's by Heavenly Art,  
From Scripture Records, draw our sacred Chart.  
That all things daily being supervised,  
We may not on a sudden be surprised.  
But with well guided judgement, take our course,  
And passage, with resolved courage force.  Bo. 
How is it like that we should win the day,  
From those great Rulers, that dark Regions sway.  
That far surpass those fierce Caldean Bands,  
That once invaded Judah's pleasant Lands,  
Who with sharp Arrows, and strong bended Bow,  
In mighty Troops, like roaring Seas did slow;  
And as a Deluge, on the Earth did seize,  
Knowing no Law, but what themselves did please.  
None weary march, nor doth dull Sleep surprise,  
Or slumber once invade, their Wakesul Eyes:  
Nor from their Loins, did strengthening Girdles lose,  
Or broken Latchets, fall from off their Shoes.  
Swifter than Leopards, were their Horse for Fight,  
Fiercer than ravening Wolves, that range by Night.  
Fleet as the Eagles, that do cut their way,  
With Airy Plumes, to their desired prey.  
All came for Violence, and where they passed  
They supped up all things like an Eastern blast.  
They scoffed at Kings, and Princes did deride,  
And laughed at places strongly fortified.  
By heaped up dust; they scaled with conquering hands,  
And led forth Captives, like innumerous sands:  
And yet these were but Flesh. This War of ours  
It is with Spirits, with superior Powers,  
With subtle Foes, in Wiles and Methods trained;  
And Stratagems, by long experience gained.  
With Sceptered Cherubs, Princes of the Air,  
With Thrones of Malice raging through despair.  
That undiscerned upon the Soul can press,  
With an immediate and a close access:  
And from above, do all advantage spy,  
And to it spied, with hellish fury fly.  
Swifter in motion, than Earth's circling Sun,  
Or Lightning, that from East to West, doth run.  
With these we War, that from on high do pour  
In direful rage, many a deadly shower  
Of winged, and sharp pointed fiery darts,  
Fixing their venomed Heads, in bleeding hearts.  
These signally are those unwearied Foes,  
That never rest, or tired Eyelids close.  
That are more cruel to the Sons of Men,  
Than Evening Beasts, that creep from Savage Den.  
That overflow like to the raging foam,  
And give no Quarter, where they overcome.  
How shall we than 'scape, falling by the hands  
Of these Aethereal Powers, and numerous bands.  So. 

Fear not (dear self) the day shall not be lost,  
So long as strength, is in the Lord of Host.  
As those that are by strongest Rocks inmured,  
So with Almighty Power, we are secured.  
Encamping Angels, round about us lie,  
Like active Flames, with ever-wakeful Eye;  
In knowledge, wisdom, force, and power, far  
Beyond those Hostile Foes, with whom we war.  
These are our Guard, that so our feet may tread  
Upon the Dragon, and the Lions Head.  
He that sets bounds, how far proud waves shall go,  
Doth likewise bound the fury of our Foe.  
And in dark Chains, doth so their power confine,  
That without leave, they cannot enter Swine.  
Be strong therefore, in that all powerful might  
That will assist, to conquer in this fight.  
And whilst thou conflicts, for thy comfort know,  
Thou art engaging with a conquered Foe.   

As famous Victors, after War was done,  
They had their Triumphs for great Battles won.  
In Trabean Robes, with Verdant Laurel Crowned  
They road in state, whilst captive Prisoners bound,  
Trailed at their Chariot wheels, in public show,  
As living Trophies, of a conquered Foe.  
So our great Captain, after victory won,  
In robes of Glory, road in Triumph home,  
With Conquest crowned, ascended up on high,  
And with him Captive led Captivity.  
Our Mortal Foes, in Battle overthrown,  
Were by him bound, and spoiled, in Triumph shown.   

Put on therefore, the complete Panoply,  
Provided for thee, in God's Armoury.  
Advance with courage, lay aside all dread,  
Thou hast already conquered in thy Head:  
And in thy person thou thyself at length,  
Through his assisting Grace, shalt tread down strength.    

Temptations arising from old Companions.  Soul, Body, Companions. Comp. 
WHat madness is it, that you thus do quit  
Your old Companions, in a sullen fit?  
Will you turn Mopes, and Fools, and make yourselves  
Like to the Owl, that in the Desert dwells:  
Wand'ring with anxious toil, in ways forlorn,  
Daily exposed, to misery and scorn?  
Come take Advice, and leave this barren Sand,  
Return again, unto a fertile Land.  
Withdraw your wand'ring steps from fruitless toil,  
And dip your tired feet in fluent Oil,  
Within cool shades, let weary Limbs lie down,  
And with sweet Rosebuds Youthful Temples Crown.  
Fulfil your hearts desire, and on your head,  
Let pleasant Odours be in plenty shed.  
Let's cheer ourselves, as once in former time,  
With Bowls of Liquor, from the generous Vine.  
And pleasant tunes, from raised spirits sing,  
Unto the Harp, and Viols, rembling string.  
Come and enjoy the good things of the Earth,  
And with old Friends, renew your former mirth.  
Why should the World at this your folly laugh,  
To see you leave all for a Pilgrim's Staff?  So. 

Will the redeemed Bondslave choose again  
To put his Feet into the Iron Chain.  
Or will the ransomed Captive any more  
Return to labour, at the Turkish Oar:  
No more shall we return again, I trust,  
To be in Bondage to our former Lust.  
Those that the Motions of the Flesh fulfil,  
Are Slaves to Lusts, Captives to Satan's will.  
It's by the Son, that Freedom comes alone;  
How many Lords have they, that have not one.   

Will those that at the living Fountain fill  
Their thirsty Souls, prise Puddle Water still.  
Or those that are with Heavenly Manna fed,  
Their Money spend, for that which is not Bread.  
That in the Bosom of true Rest doly,  
Weary themselves for very Vanity.  
This would be Folly in the highest strain,  
Therefore forbear, your Offers are in vain,  
Come join with us, leave Rioting Excess,  
And walk in ways of real Happiness,  
So shall you with the truest Good be blessed,  
And guided safe, unto Eternal Rest.   Comp. 
Poor Creatures, that with high conceits do swell,  
And in your brainsick Fancies, love to dwell,  
Have you not seen some Madmen make their Brags,  
Of large Possessions, strut it in their Rags,  
Thinking themselves some great Ones, and promote  
Laughter in all, to see them thus to dote.  
Come listen to us, leave this roving Mind,  
It's only trouble in this Path you'll find.  So. 

It is no wonder those that judge by Sense,  
Should draw so dark and false an Inference:  
But doth not madness in such persons reign,  
As love their Dungeon, hug their Iron Chain.  
Despise the Light, and think those Men unwise  
That rouse from Prison straw, and freedom prize.  
This is your case, that slavish Bondage choose,  
And paths of Freedom, sordidly refuse.   

What though we meet with trouble, yet we shall  
Have that sweet inward peace, will weigh down  
And those same troubles, that our way infest,  
Will fill our Songs with Triumph, at our rest.  
Great Conflicts, make the Conquest more renowned,  
Great victory, with great Glory, shall be crowned.  
Come then and tread with us this Living Path,  
You'll find true comfort, in the Life of Faith.    

The Souls Improvement of Time in Meditation upon Light, the First Days Work.  Soul. So. 

WHen Waters once the formless Earth did steep,  
And sable darkness, covered all the deep.  
When this void Lump was muffled up in Night,  
Then out of Darkness, God commanded Light.  
Just so it was when this same little World,  
By Adam's sin, was into Darkness hurled.  
Into dark hearts, God shined by his Grace,  
To give forth Light, through blessed Emanuel's Face.   

He that in Six Days did this Fabric rear,  
And out of Nothing, form what doth appear.  
Upon the first day gilds and over-lays  
This undigested Lump, with Luminous Rays.  
So on the first day risen that Light, which brings  
To lapsed World, Salvation in his Wings.  
And on the first day, whom he new creates  
With saving Light, those he illuminates.  
No sooner did this great Creator say,  
Let there be Light, but straightway it was Day.  
No sooner did his Word, give forth Command,  
But presently his Work doth perfect stand.  
Admire that Power, my Soul, that by his Call,  
Gives Being unto that had none at all:  
And by a Word of Life, doth straightway raise  
A new Creation, to sing forth his praise.   

Three days the Light about the World did run  
Before the great Creator made the Sun.  
Thrice was the Day divided from the Night,  
Before God set up this embodied Light.  
Admire that God, my Soul, that can fulfil  
Without, or with, what means he please, his Will.  
He that at first without Sun made a day,  
Will shine himself, when these Lights are away.  
Long for that time, when he himself will be  
Instead of all created Light to thee.    

Trials arising from Displeasure of Parents.  Soul. Body. So. 
ANd why so sad, dear self, come fix thy mind.  
On things above, where thou shalt comfort find.  Bo. 
Unto my grief, methinks I still do hear  
The angry words of Parents in my Ear.  
Will you, said they, your Fancies thus pursue,  
As if none knew the way to Heaven but you.  
Have all been out before, conceited Sirs,  
And are you wiser than your Ancestors?  
Well, if you are resolved in the case,  
Then never more presume to see our Face:  
And know withal, that whilst you wander thus,  
You shall be friendless Mendicants for us.  So. 
It's not our Fancies, but Divine Command,  
That doth oblige us to this work in hand.  
And though we may under hard censure fall,  
We must keep close, to this same Heavenly Call.  
In Arts and Sciences it's taken well,  
That we therein Forefathers do excel.  
Why should there then, dear self, be such a strife  
About our Progress in the ways of Life.  
If we herein shall truly be devout,  
Though Parents frown upon us, cast us out,  
Our Heavenly Father will extend his Grace,  
And in his Arms, his suffering one's embrace.  
The Bands of this Relation will avail,  
When all the Ligaments of Nature fail.  Bo. 
Yet bitter sadness fills my breaking heart,  
From Friends and dear Relations thus to part.  
How do my yearning Bowels in me role,  
Whilst that, methinks, I hear them thus condole.  
Children we have, and yet we Childless are,  
Possessions for them, yet must have no share.  
All that we have, doth now but torment add,  
Since they are gone, that should the same have had.  
How happy are those Persons that have none,  
Or having Children, call them still their own.  
That Staff, which to our Age should give relief.  
Proves as a Dart, to wound with piercing grief.  
And those that through our Loins did draw their Breath,  
Are made unto us, Instruments of Death.  So. 
Forbear such thoughts, if we had done amiss,  
Then had we given woeful cause for this.  
This way of ours, commands us to afford  
To Parents, due obedience in the Lord,  
But if their Wills in competition stand,  
We must adhere unto Divine Command.  
And seeing God or Creatures, we must leave,  
Let's follow him, in whom we all receive:  
And only mourn to think, that such offence  
Is taken at well-guided Innocence.  
And how like burning Sparks that upward fly,  
Poor woeful Man is born to misery.  
Rather than want what may his Peace annoy,  
He'll turn to grief, the matter of his joy.  Bo. 
But how (dear Soul) shall we now do to live,  
Who will unto us Food and Raiment give.  So. 

Distrust it not, dear self, that God which knows  
What things we need, will surely give us those.  
He that thy Substance viewed in secret shade,  
And curiously this wondrous Fabric made;  
That cast upon thee a creating Look,  
And entered all thy Members in his Book:  
That gave thee Life, and from the lowest Earth,  
Enlarged thy dwelling by a timely Birth;  
That then provided Breasts, and tender Arms,  
To nourish thee, and keep thee safe from harms:  
That to this day hath followed thee with good,  
It's he (dear self) will give both  and Food.   

Seest thou the Lilies in the open Field,  
To which no Gardener helping hand doth yield.  
They neither spin, nor send fair Warp to twine  
About the figured Woof, to make them fine:  
Nor do with anxious care themselves perplex,  
To dress their lovely form, with Leaves reflex.  
Yet Solomon in all his choice Array,  
Was not invested with such Robes as they.  
If God for fading Lilies take such care,  
He'll surely  such as his Children are.   

Look to the Airy Fowl, that neither sow  
Nor reaped Harvest, in their Barns do stow:  
But what God gives, they gather up and eat,  
And with an open hand are filled with Meat.   

The unkind Raven that from Nest expels  
Her tender Young, when shiftless for themselves,  
God to their hoarse unpleasant Voice attends,  
And timely Food unto those young ones sends.  
If unclean Birds from Bounty thus are fed,  
Such as far better are shan't want their Bread.   Bo. 
But yet (dear Soul) our loss it is not small,  
To part with Friends, with Livelihood and all.  So. 
Those drills of mixed Comfort, which creep here,  
Through divers Channels, in their Springs flow clear.  
There do they all collectively abound,  
Which here dispersed and sparingly are found.  
We lose not then those Comforts which we leave,  
Whilst at the Fountain Head we all receive.  
They that Relations, Friends, and Lands forsake,  
To follow Christ, in this Life shall partake  
Of such sweet Peace, pure Joy, and Heavenly Food,  
Of such Communion with the chiefest Good;  
As shall a hundred-fold these things transcend,  
And Life Eternal, when this Life shall end.   

The Souls Evening Meditation.  Soul. So. 

THe Firmament decked with Celestial Flame,  
The Glory of its Maker doth proclaim.  
If each great Spangle on that Heavenly Robe,  
Transcend in bigness, this same terrene Globe;  
Which is in miles by computation found  
Six hundred one and twenty thousand round.  
How great is that Circumference sublime,  
In which so many Radiant Lamps do shine:  
That could a Humane Eye be fixed there,  
This World would but a minute point appear.  
And yet how vastly greater is that place,  
Where God gives forth full Visions of his Face.  
How should we then with reverential dread,  
Admire that Power, that did these heavens spread.  
Adore that God, so infinitely great,  
As doth this Earth, and all these heavens replete?  
Whose all-containing Immense Being, can  
Meet out these vast Dimensions with a span.   

And if these Earth exceeding Globes do show  
But like small Balls of Flame to us below:  
And if seven Orbs, beneath this Roof are hurled  
With rapid Motion, round this lower World,  
In which seven Planets variously do steer,  
Most of them greater than this globous Sphere;  
How many thousand miles, yea, millions high,  
Hath God above us, stretched the starry Sky?  
And yet how far beyond in Altitude,  
Is that thired Heaven, which doth these Orbs include?  
Which doth his Greatness and his Grace declare,  
Whose Mercies far above the heavens are.  
And who in height doth highest heavens excel,  
And uncontained in himself doth dwell.   

And if so vast and high these Bodies be;  
What Tongue can tell their great celerity?  
What motion can set forth how swift they role  
In their diurnal course, about their Pole?  
How blessed then may those be truly said,  
Upon which heavens, God rideth for their aid.  
And who like Jes'runs God in excellence,  
That rideth on the Sky for their defence.  
And if these Globes so swift, by fixed Decree,  
Still wheel about in Even Harmony.  
If Constellations, keep their distance due,  
And wand'ring Planets, wander always true;  
And keep by Ordinance, given to them all,  
Their Revolutions periodical:  
And orderly do run their bounded way,  
In lucent paths, from which they never stray.  
But move exactly in their Heavenly Sphere,  
To give the various seasons of the year.  
And this by virtue of a Covenant past,  
Which must endure so long as time shall last.  
How firm is then the Covenant of Grace,  
Which he hath freely made to Israel's Race?  
heavens Ordinances shall be sooner broke,  
Than any Promise that the Lord hath spoke.  
And how stupendious is that Power above,  
Which such swift Bodies, doth so ev'nly move.   

Oh what is Man or his Posterity,  
That God should spread so rich a Canopy?  
And garnish forth this great Celestial Roof,  
With such refulgent Lights on his behoof.  
He that for all Men hath this Structure reared,  
What Glory for his own hath he prepared?    

Upon the Moon.  

OBserve the Moon, that monthly makes her way,  
Through the twelve Signs, and over Night bears sway.  
One of the greater Lights, for so in show,  
As seated next to us that live below.  
The nearer in Approaches she doth come  
Unto the luminous Body of the Sun.  
The brighter doth she cast her Rays above,  
And darker shows to those that here do move.  
So do those Souls to Heavenly Eyes shine bright,  
That hold Communion with the God of Light.  
Whilst the dark World no Glory can espy,  
Because it's hidden from a Carnal Eye.   

And as the Moon, with borrowed Light displays  
Reflected Beams, sent from the Sun's bright Rays  
So from the Sun of Righteousness Divine,  
The Saints with perfect Comeliness do shine.   

Again, observe her in her obliqne Sphere,  
Where Days and Nights, much vary in the year.  
In Winter time, when the declining Sun,  
His shortest Arch doth in the heavens run.  
And quickly posteth from our Hemisphere,  
Whilst dusky Night, long Sable Robes do wear.  
Then doth the Moon opposed in her sign,  
Mounted on high, in largest Circle shine.  
Supplying comfort to the tedious Night,  
By long continuance of her cheering Light.  
Whereas in Summer, when there is less need,  
She from us to th' Antipodes doth speed.  
And there lifts up her silver beaming Head,  
Where the moist shades of Night are longest spread.  
You that search out his Works, Oh praise the Lord,  
Who when most need, doth then most Light afford.   

The Moon, though glorious, hath opacous veins,  
And from her Full, doth hasten to her Wains.  
With various Phaces, moving through the Sky,  
And constant always in unconstancy.  
So are all sublunary Comforts here,  
With Spots they shine, than change and disappear.  
Oh happy Souls, that by true Grace are led,  
Upon these mixed and fading things to tread.    

Trials arising from cruel Mockings.  Soul. Body. Bo. 
THeir troubles (my dear Soul) what words can tell,  
That meet with those, whose Tongues are fired from Hell.  
From which, as from a cruel Bow that's bend,  
Are bitter words, like poisoned Arrows sent.  
How do the Ishmaels' of the World us flout?  
The Rabshakes, their Railing thus cast out:  
These are the holy Seed, that must possess  
The promised Land; we in the Wilderness  
Must be cast forth, as those in Bondage born,  
Wand'ring in Desert Ways, with Steps forlorn:  
These are the Gifted Brethren, that can preach:  
And dress their Nonsense in affected Speech,  
That pray Tautologies with moving Groans,  
And take the simple, with affected Tones.  
These are the nice precisions, not content,  
With that old path, in which their Fathers went,  
But must have new: These from the Church do stray,  
And yet pretend to Heaven the nearest Way,  
To be the only Ones, that walk aright;  
Such as do still attain unto New Light.  
Meteors of Flame and Zeal, from whence doth fall  
Direful Effects, where they are Vertical.  
Disturbers of the Peace in every Town,  
Turning the World in Faction, upside down.  So. 

That Troubles and Commotions do arise,  
It is from those that do the Truth despise:  
This is declared in the Sacred Word,  
The Prince of Peace did come to send a Sword;  
Which accidental proves, from the fierce Rage  
Of those that do against his Ways engage:  
As Torrents stopped, swell high to overflow,  
So Lust opposed, doth more outrageous grow:  
Besides the Devil with his own doth join,  
That so no Light may in his Kingdom shine;  
And those that do against his power contest,  
Are cried down as the Men that do molest.   

As for Reproach, fear not a taunting Word,  
The Servant is not greater than his Lord:  
Black Mouths against him belched forth Obloquy,  
Both whilst he lived, and when he came to die;  
Who when reviled, reviled not his Foes,  
But like the silent Lamb, to Slaughter goes.  
If that the Head endured such Contempt,  
The Members must not think to be exempt:  
If he drunk deep of this same bitter Cup,  
Let not his Servants then think much to sup.  
If he for us a Crown of Thorns did wear,  
Let's follow him, and his Reproaches bear.   Bo. 
It is but just and equal, what you say,  
But yet it is a sad and dismal Way.  So. 

The Way faring Man, that carefully doth mind  
Those given Marks, whereby his Way to find;  
As when he hath crossed o'er a pleasant Plain,  
He then must pass a deep and dirty Lane;  
Then by a Wood, where Savage Beasts frequent;  
Then climb a craggy and a high Ascent,  
When as instructed, he doth thither come,  
Out of a longing Mind to be at home;  
Though at the way he taketh no delight,  
Yet joys in this, to see himself i'th' right,  
So though Afflictions grievous are to Sense,  
Yet may they yield a joyful Evidence.  
For in this Way the Saints to Heaven went,  
Against whose Names reproachful Tongues were bend:  
Thus Patient Job, whose Record was on high,  
Under hard words of Friendless Friends did lie;  
Besides young Boys this worthy Soul did mock,  
Whose Fathers were too mean to tend his Flock.  
Such as to Desert, Want and Famine drive  
To dig up Roots, to keep themselves alive:  
Chased by Man from their Society,  
Followed like Flying Thiefs with Hue and Cry,  
Hidden in Holes, concealed in gaping Rifts,  
Dwelling as Men forlorn, in Rocky Clifs:  
Children of Fools, and such as had no name;  
Viler than was the Earth from whence they came.  
To these was Job a byword, these vile Wretches  
Made him the Subject of their gibing Catches.   

Such as the Abjects of the People were,  
With bitter Scoffs, did David's good name tear;  
With Hypocrites, in their Voluptuous Feasts,  
They nasht their Teeth, and fling forth Taunting Jests.  
The sordid Drunkard, with defaming Tongue,  
Made him the matter of his jeering Song.   

The great Apostles filled with Gifts divine,  
Derided were as drunken with new Wine,  
And many more, with cruel Mockings tried,  
That trod this Path, and now are glorified.   Bo. 
It is enough (dear Soul) come let's go on,  
This is the Way I see the Saints have gone.  
Moses the Meek, this Thorny Path did tread,  
Leaving the Court, where he was Princely bred  
The fruitful Plains, that fattening Nile o'rrun:  
The high-raised Title of a Prince's Son,  
The great Preferments of a Potent King,  
The Wealth and Pleasures, Peace and Plenty bring;  
With a despised People to partake  
Of Sharp Reproaches, for his Saviour's sake:  
And these as greater Riches by him chose,  
Then all the Treasures Egypt did enclose.   

The Souls Speech to Revilers.  Soul. So. 

YOu are arrived to the Scorners Chair,  
Learned how to mock, and we must learn to bear.  
Is it not Folly in a high degree,  
For Persons drawing to the Fatal Tree,  
Upon their way to jeer all else beside,  
That will not so to Execution ride.   

Vain Sons of Earth, who fling about your Wit,  
As Madmen Firebrands, care not whom you hit;  
And make it but your sport, for to blaspheme  
Those that in Heaven dwell, and Heaven in them:  
Yea in your Drolling Language think it fine,  
To cast forth Scoffs against the Spirit Divine.  
Poor daring Moths, that make it but your Game  
To sport and play about the burning Flame;  
Will nothing serve the turn, but you must try  
How through the Light your Wanton Wings can fly?  
No wonder then if this be your repast,  
With scorched Wings you tumble down at last  
Come, be advised to leave your Slanderous Tongue,  
You do yourselves, not us, the greatest wrong.  
And are exposed to those Curses dire,  
Sounded by trembling String, on Hebrew Lyre,  
Against that Man, who fired by Envious Flames  
With open Mouth and lying Tongue, defames  
My God, my glory leave not in distress, 
Mr. Sandys his Paraphrase on the 109th Psal.   
Nor let prevailing Fraud the Truth oppress;  
They who delight in subtleties and wrongs,  
Afflict me with the poison of their Tongues,  
With Slander and Detraction, gird me round,  
And would without a cause my life confound,  
Good turns, with evil, proudly recompense,  
And Love with Hate, my Merit with Offence:  
But I in these Extremes to thee repair,  
And pour out my perplexed soul in prayer;  
Subject him to a Tyrant's stern command,  
Subverting Satan place at his right hand:  
Found guilty, when arraigned in that feared time,  
Let his rejected Prayers augment his crime:  
May he by Violence untimely die,  
And let another his Command supply.  
Let his distressed Widow weep in vain,  
His wretched Orphans to deaf Ears complain.  
Let them the wand'ring paths of Exile tread,  
And in unpeopled Deserts seek their Bread.  
Let griping Usurers divide his Spoil,  
And Strangers reap the Harvest of his toil.  
In his long Misery may he find no Friend,  
None to his Race so much as pity lend.  
Let his Posterity be overthrown,  
Their Names to the succeeding Age unknown.  
Let not the Lord his Father's sins forget,  
His Mother's infamy before him set.  
Oh let them be the object of his Eye,  
Till he out-root their hated memory.   Nuncius. Nun. 
AS mighty Billows swelled with stormy wind,  
Come trooping on, and where repulse they find,  
There in tumultuous Waves their power stretch.  
And fiercely charge, to gain an entering Breach.  
So the proud Tempter put unto retreat,  
Rallies again, in hope for to defeat  
His conquering Foes, whom in disdain he views,  
And with fresh fury his Assaults renews.  
But like a Rock, that makes its standing good,  
Against the rushing of the roaring Flood:  
So stand all those are strengthened by the might  
Of him that helps to conquer in the Fight.   

The Complaints and Fears of the Flesh removed by the Soul, particularly concerning Persecutors.  Soul. Body. Bo. 
HOw far (dear Soul) how far, have we now gone,  So. 
Mind not (dear self) what's past, but let's press on.  Bo. 
What thorny rugged way have we passed o'er,  So. 
Forget it all, and reach to things before.  Bo. 
How much remains of this same tedious way,  So. 
(Dear self) it shortens on us every day.  Bo, 
Let's rest a while from this same weary race,  So. 
Depart (dear self) it's not thy resting place,  Bo. 
(Dear Soul) I'm feeble, let's a little stay,  So. 
The way for strength, is to keep on our way,  Bo. 
I fear I shall not persevere, or stand,  So. 
Look up to him that holds with his right hand,  Bo. 
Troubles (dear Soul) upon us daily grow.  So. 
Support and Comfort, likewise daily flow.  Bo. 
With doubtful mind we oft perplexed are.  So. 
But yet upheld and kept from sad despair.  Bo. 
On every side Afflictions on us waits.  So. 
Yet are we not distressed in all our straits.  Bo. 
We meet with Persecution day by day.  So. 
Yet are we not forsaken in our way.  Bo. 
With casting down we often are annoyed.  So. 
But yet preserved (dear self) and not destroyed.  Bo. 
Must we (dear Soul) pass on this dangerous way.  
How shall we scape those Troops that lurk for prey?  
See how their Scouts already do appear.  
Let's fly (dear Soul) before they do come near.  So. 

Not so (dear Self) let's not our duty quit;  
Here lies our way, and therefore keep to it.  
We need not fear though Men and Devils rave,  
We have a Guard sufficient for to save.  
See how the Mountains shine with glittering Spears,  
And all the Hills how filled with Curiassiers,  
And fiery Charets, that like Lightning run,  
And with swift motion, like the Whirlwind turn.  
Seest thou that gallant File on the right wing,  
Whose dazzling Targets back the Sun Beams fling.  
Those bond the mighty Babylonian King,  
That from Jerusalem the Spoils did bring  
That lofty Tree, that unto Heaven grew,  
Whosespreading Branches all the World did view.  
Under whose cooling shade the Beasts did rest,  
And in whose Boughs, the Fowls did build their nest:  
Upon whose Twigs, fair Leaves themselves did spread,  
And by whose Fruit all Flesh was nourished.  
These hewed him down, these did his Branches cut,  
Shaked off his Leaves, and scattered all his Fruit.  
From Palace cast him, drove him out from men,  
To range the Woods, and lodge in Savage Den.  
His Limbs bedewed, he from cold Earth doth raise,  
And with Wild Asses runs about to graise.  
With Beastial Heart, upon the Shrubs and Boughs,  
How doth this Royal Bruit delight to browse,  
Until this Heavenly Lamp, the days bright Sun,  
Had seven times through the Golden Zodiac run.  
And this illustrious Beast did come to know  
The most High ruled in Kingdoms here below.   

He next in Front, that on the left doth ride,  
Smote persecuting Herod in his Pride.  
No sooner did his Leader give the word  
For to destroy, but out he drew his Sword.  
And swifter than the Wind his Fiery Steed,  
Doth to the Court of Proud Agrippa speed:  
Breaks through his Forces, and that wicked rout  
That deified him with blasphemous shout:  
And in their sight, from Regal Throne he turns  
This glistering Prince, to be devoured by Worms.   

Mind that commanded Troop in the next Field,  
And in it him that lifteth up his Shield.  
That, that, was singly he, whose mortal Steel  
The proud Assyrian Host did sharply feel.  
Almost two hundred thousand Corpse were found  
By him laid dead, upon Judaean ground.  
The rest amazed, from Zions' Siege do fly,  
Justly rewarded for their blasphemy.  
Like unto those, are all the rest who stand  
Ready to execute the least Command  
Of him, that makes his Ministers a Flame,  
Timely to fuccour those that fear his Name.    

Gamaliel's Speech to Persecutors.  Persecutors. Gamaliel. Perseus. 
UPon the Hill of Mispah let us set  
Our Snares, and on Mount Tabor spread our Net.  
It's Dan, and Bethel, that the Law doth name  
To be the places for our hallowed Flame.  
Why then should any from our Altars run,  
And not before our Calves sweet incense burn.  
These, these, are they that do disturb the Land,  
That break the Law, and won't obey command.  
Some we have taken, they shall dearly pay  
Forthosewhich scape through this forbidden way.  
Let's teach them now with Thorns, the Tribes agree,  
At Dan and Bethel we should bow the Knee.  
Let's make no Conscience for to ruin them,  
That leave our Altars for Jerusalem.  
It is but fit that we correct their Pride,  
Who would be wiser than all else beside.  Ga. 

You are upon a great attempt no doubt,  
But want Advice in what you go about.  
Tell me, I pray you, was it ever found,  
The way of Violence hath gained ground.  
Come, come, dismiss the Men that you have caught,  
The way they take, if wrong, will come to naught:  
But if the course they steer prove to be right,  
Then know against the mighty God you fight.  
Will you in Battle set the Thorn and Bryer,  
Shall withered Stubble charge consuming Fire?  
How will his dreadful Wrath burn up the same,  
When he shall march through in devouring Flame.   

Dire Instruments of Death do by him lie,  
Prepared for Vengeance on the Enemy.  
Against the Persecutors, he ordains  
His Arrows, and in vital Blood them stains.  
Upon his Head his Mischief shall return,  
His Root and Branch, the Wrath of God will burn.   

Phar'oh against the Seed of Jacob's bent,  
Ten sharpened Arrows God upon him spent.  
This will not do, the proud King will pursue  
The Ransomed Tribes, which to the Red Sea, drew.  
When Israel comes, the Sea lifts up its head,  
Sees Israel's God, and seeing trembling fled.  
The Waters are afraid, the troubled Deeps  
With rushing noise, make haste to run on heaps  
The frighted Floods do leave their Channel dry  
And in congealed heaps on both sides lie.  
The Eastern Wind sweepeth the Watery Floor,  
The ransomed of the Lord safely pass o'er.  
Phar'oh and all his Armed Host still raves,  
And follows Israel through divided Waves:  
I'll overtake, I will the Spoil divide,  
I'll glut my Lusts, I will destroy, they cried.  
God from the Cloud and fiery Pillar views  
The daring Troops, that Israel thus pursues.  
There Charr'ots on a sudden lose their Wheels,  
The Horse and Horsman in an instant reels.  
The troubled Host amazed now do cry,  
God fighteth for them, from their Face let's fly.  
Unto retired Streams the Lord doth call,  
They straight return, the Watery heaps do fall.  
Dried Channels now with Waves are overflown,  
Charro'ts and Horsemen in the Deeps are thrown.  
Thus in the Sea the Lord doth them confound,  
That in the River Israel's Seed had drowned.   

Haman their offspring doth design to kill,  
And with their Blood the Persian Empire fill.  
This Agagite doth scorn so mean a prey,  
As single unfaluting Mordecay:  
But all his People must a Victim be,  
To expiate for one unbowing knee.   

There is a People, to the King he cried,  
Diff ring in Laws from all your Realm beside;  
Dispersed and scattered up and down they lie,  
And such as will not with your Laws comply.  
It is not for your profit they should live,  
Therefore Ten thousand Talents I will give  
Unto your Royal use to be employed,  
That all those Sectaries may be destroyed.  
Forthwith the hasty misinformed King,  
Remits the Money, and gives forth his Ring  
To sign the cruel Edict Posts now fly,  
To all parts, to promote this Villainy.  
The day's designed for this bloody Deed,  
And Haman waits to root out Israel's Seed.  
But this returns upon him and his Race,  
Being carri d to be hanged with covered Face.   

Read more in Sacred Writ the end of them,  
That dare to fight against Jerusalem.  
Within their holes consumed is their Eye,  
Within their Mouth, their wasted Tongue doth lie.  
Pining Consumptions do their Bodies vex,  
From God a Tumult doth their minds perplex.  
Horror and Fear, their Spirits do surprise,  
Each hand against their Neighbour's hand doth rise.  
A cup of Poison, and of trembling Wine,  
She's made to those that round her draw their line.  
They that to lift this heavy Stone do try,  
Do underneath it crushed in pieces lie.  
Arrows like Lightning fly from bended Bow,  
Scattering her Foes with deadly overthrow.   

Then from these Men refrain, least to your cost,  
You chance to fight against the Lord of Host.  
Those Men must needs be woefully undone,  
That on the Bosses of his Buckler run.   Nuncius. Nu. 
THough Pilgrims in their Passage may be stayed,  
By cruel hands in stinking Prisons laid;  
Which may at present grievous be to sense,  
Yet hath, through Grace, a blessed influence.  
And though both Men and Devils seek by force,  
To stop their Progress in this Heavenly Course,  
It proves but vain, a higher hand bears sway,  
And helps them still to prosecute their way.   

The Soul administering Cordials to the Outward Man, to prevent Faintings under Sufferings.  Soul. Body. So. 

COme (my dear Self) let not sad thoughts deject,  
This is no more than what we must expect.  
The way to Heaven through Tribulation lies,  
We by the Cross, must unto Glory rise.  
Were we of this World, it would love its own,  
But we are Strangers to the World unknown.   

Remember those brave Worthies that through Faith,  
Wandered in Deserts void of beaten Path;  
That in Beasts Skins did Airy Mountains tread,  
And in damp Caves and Dens did lodge their Head.  
Who unto Men and Angels often were  
By Tyrants made a gazing Theatre.  
Whose tender Limbs on torturing Racks were strained,  
And with whose Blood the cruel Sword was stained.  
Who under cutting Saws did breathe their last,  
And through a shower of Stones to Glory past.  
These choice ones were like Filth, and Rubbish hurled,  
By various Deaths out of this wicked World.  
Who by their Faith a good report obtained,  
And through rich Grace a Throne in Heaven gained.   Bo. 
I do confess these truly were renowned,  
As also those in sacred Record found.  
Who armed with victorious Fortitude,  
Opposing Kingdoms round about subdud:  
That walked in holy Ways with great success,  
And in a righteous Path wrought Righteousness.  
That by their Faith great Promises obtained,  
And Conquest over roaring Lions gained.  
That did the force of raging Fire turn  
Against its Nature, that it could not burn.  
That waxed Valiant in prevailing Fight,  
And Armies of the Aliens put to flight.  
These were indeed for Grace and Courage famed,  
But what are we, not worthy to be named.  So. 
But unto whom (dear Self) doth power belong,  
Who out of Weakness made those Worthies strong?  
Was it not God that girt their Loins with might,  
Infused Courage, taught their hands to fight?  
Did not he strengthen them to undergo  
The Difficulties that he called them to?  
And hath not this rich Fountain of all Grace,  
Promised assistance to us in like case?  
Let us in Faith then keep his righteous way,  
It's God work for to help, ours to obey.  
Yea, let's rejoice and bless that glorious Name,  
That counts us worthy thus to suffer shame:  
Yea, be exceeding glad and sing with those  
At whose strong Prayer a mighty Earthquake rose,  
Shook off their Bands, the Prison Doors unbarred,  
At which springs in the trembling Jailor scared.  
And he that thought to fall upon his Sword,  
Fell down converted at their powerful Word.  Bo. 
It's true indeed this is a blessed Frame,  
To glory in our Sufferings for his Name.  
But how shall I attain this Heavenly Art,  
That chief am exposed to the smart.  So. 
I do confess it is above our reach,  
But God has promised powerfully to teach:  
He to this end will Tribulation bless,  
That thou in patience may'st thy Soul possess.  
It's he that causeth that same bitter Root,  
To bring forth in thee this same pleasant Fruit.  
It's he that can our frowardness remove,  
By making of the cause its cure to prove.  
And where the Grace of Patience doth abound,  
With large experience shall that Soul be crowned.  
With sweet refreshing Comforts from his Face,  
With great reviving Succours from his Grace.  
And as experience doth from Patienee flow,  
So lively hope doth on Experiencc grow:  
For we by what is found and felt are led,  
To hope for all the mercy promised.  
And being sure of Heaven in the end,  
We glory in those means that thither tend.   

The Soul solacing herself in those Apprehensions she hath of the future peaceable Kingdom of Jesus Christ.  Soul. So. 

WHen that choice Branch of David's Royal Stem,  
Comes for to wear the World's bright Diadem.  
And in the Clouds (it's likely) will display,  
His Glory in the Morning of that day.  
Myriad of Angels on his Throne attend,  
Millions of glorious raised Saints ascend  
Unto their King, from all parts round about,  
Waiting upon him with triumphant shout.  
The Sun in Darkness vails his drooping head,  
The Moon and Stars forbear their Light to shed.  
The Pillars of the reeling World do shake,  
And trembling Mountains like Mount Sinai quake.  
The Kings and Captains, with the mighty Men,  
To hid themselves run to the silent Den.  
The great ones to the Rocks and Mountains call  
For shelter by their overwhelming fall,  
From that same Face which comes with dreadful ire,  
To render Vengeance in bright flames of Fire.   

Then those great Armies by his proud Foes led,  
Like a black Cloud over Judaea spread.  
Threatening with dismal storm the pleasant Land,  
Shall be destroyed by his powerful hand.  
Upon their Heads he showers down burning Coals,  
Over their Necks his flaming Charr'ot rolls.  
Fire, Sword and Hail, their routed Troops confound,  
And fill with bleeding Corpse the purple Ground.  
Invited Fowls to Royal Flesh make speed,  
And ravenous Beasts upon slain Nobles feed.  
The numerous Guests from this Feast go away,  
Drunken with Blood and glutted with the Prey.  
Those two great Leaders that seduced the World  
Beast and false Prophet, both alive are hurled,  
By that same conquering hand which doth them take,  
Into the ever-burning fiery Lake.   

The mettled Kingdom no more place doth find,  
But flies like Chaff, dispersed with chase Wind.  
And that same Stone that smote it on the Toes,  
Fills the whole Earth and a great Mountain grows.   

An Ensign now is lifted up on high,  
The Gentiles like the Clouds unto it fly.  
The Seed of Jacob that were made a Prey,  
And scattered in the dark and cloudy day:  
Those exile People that by Willows mourn,  
With Harps untuned do now again return.  
The mighty Waters, as of old do fly,  
And for a Passage leave their Channels dry.  
In a straight way they from Dispersion come,  
With joy and singing to their longed for home.  
And now united Tribes their Land possess,  
Under one head the King of Righteousness;  
Whose Regal Throne exalted is on high,  
Among his Ancient People gloriously.  
All Nation, Tongues, and Languages obey  
The Royal Sceptre that this King doth sway.  
His large Dominions are established  
Over all places where the heavens spread.  
Judgement and Justice from his Throne come down,  
Like the sweet Showers upon the Grass new mow'n.  
Now Truth and Mercy both together meet,  
And Righteousness with kiss firm Peace doth greet.  
The Just now flourish, and the Saints obtain  
Seats on his Throne, Shares in his blessed Reign.   

The Creatures all in mutual Concord live,  
None unto others do disturbance give.  
The Wolf, with tender Lamb, shall gently rest,  
The Lion on the Bullock's Straw shall feast.  
The Fatling by him shall in peace abide,  
The Kid lie safely by the Leopard's side.  
The Heifer than shall feed without all fear,  
Within fat Pastures by the friendly Bear.  
The Asp no more with mortal bite shall slay,  
But at their holes a Child shall safely play.  
The Panther with sweet Breath no more shall draw,  
Deluded Beasts into his tearing Paw.  
The Basilisk no longer Darts forth Death,  
By strong malignant Beams, or poisoning Breath.  
The Hawk no more with Airy Plumes shall move,  
In fierce pursuit, after the trembling Dove.  
The Hound no more shall chase the flying Deer,  
Nor Crocodile shall shed dissembling tear.  
No Salean Moor, nor cruel Algerine,  
Shall cruise for Prey upon the Midland Brine.  
No barbarous Pirate shall false Colours show,  
Nor robbing Galleys on salt Billows row.   

No Cannibal his greedy mouth shall slain  
With Humane Blood, squeezed from the Flesh new slain.  
Arabian Thiefs no more shall hunt for prey,  
Nor fierce Bandities rob in traveling way.  
No warlike Banner in the Field shall wave,  
Nor cruel Battle feed the hungry Grave.  
No Nation more the glittering Sword shall rear,  
Or charge each other with the hostile Spear.  
The Art of War shall then neglected lie,  
So long as Stars emboss the Sable Sky.   

In ruined places goodly Structures are,  
To wasted Cities, flocks of Men repair.  
Under the Branches of the climbing Vine,  
Which overhead with clasping Tendrels twine.  
The Owner rests secure, none makes afraid,  
Or gives disturbance to his peaceful shade.  
Swords beat in Ploughshares dig the fertile Earth,  
Spears turned to Cickles, reap its fruitful Birth.  
Like Eden's Garden doth the barren Field,  
Great heaps of Plenty to the Dresser yield.  
The Deserts now with streams of Water flow,  
The stately Pine and Fir-tree in it grow.  
The Myrtle Box and Oil-tree here abides,  
And lofty Cedars raise their Pyramids,  
The Wilderness with fruitful Crop is spread,  
Like Sharon where King David's Cattle fed.  
The Forest and the solitary Land,  
Clothed with Carmel's Glory, joyful stand.   

The Hill of Zion, with exalted head,  
On top of Mountains stands established.  
No Thorn or Brier in her Path doth grow,  
All Nations to her Worship freely flow.  
The ransomed of the Lord that her surround,  
With Wreaths of everlasting Joy are crowned,  
Sorrow and sighing now shall fly away,  
And Songs of Triumph celebrate this day.  
God with Defence will all her Glory bless,  
The Man of this World shall no more oppress:  
The Earth with knowledge of the Lord is spread,  
Like the great Sea with Waters covered.  
Now Holiness extends her glorious Rays,  
And Grace fills up the Duties of these days.  
The Sons of Zion shine with Sanctity,  
Filled by the Spirit poured from on high.  
The Restitution of all things is come,  
The trav'ling pains of the Creations done:  
Now Saints enjoy their glorious Liberty,  
And groaning Creatures are from Bondage free.  
The heavens and Earth, new Robes of Glory wear,  
The Creatures all in Eden's dress appear,  
And Righteousness throughout the World will Reign,  
So long as Sun shall shine or Moon shall wain.   Nuncius. Nun. 
SAtan enraged by his overthrows,  
With new Attempts assaults his conquering Foes.  
And now by flattering Wiles he doth pursue,  
That which he saw by frowns he could not do.  
His deadly Hook under gilt Baits now lies,  
As that most likely to obtain his Prize.  
Just like the Panther, that his Prey would win,  
Conceals his Head, and shows his spotted Skin;  
That whilst his Gaudy Colours do invite,  
His grisly Visage may not put to flight.  
So Satan hopes, by offers large, he may  
To hidden jaws of Death allure his Prey.  
But all in vain, by Wisdom from on high,  
They see where ruin lurks and from it fly.   

A Brief account of the intermixture of Providences in our Pilgrimage.  Soul. Body. Bo. 

COme (my dear Soul) Aurora hangs the Skies,  
With Arras bright against the Sun doth rise.  
The Eastern Hills with welcome day are spread,  
Phoebus makes haste to raise his Orient head.  
Dark Clouds are fled and left the heavens fair,  
Our way is pleasant, and the perfumed Air.  
With various sweets breathed from the flowery Spring,  
Doth gently fan with Odoriferous Wing.  
The cheerful Birds upon green Branches raise  
Melodious Notes, and warble forth sweet Lay.   

Like the alternate seasons of the year,  
So is our Life and Way whilst Pilgrims here.  
We have our Winter and our gloomy Days,  
And then our Summer with bright cheering Rays,  
Sometimes strong Flaws, at other times sweet Gales,  
Sometimes dark Clouds, then lucid intervales.  
It's good it should be thus, that so we may  
Not faint whilst here, nor yet delight to stay.  
Winds purge the Air, dark Clouds are not in vain,  
But spend themselves in fructifying rain.  
Sharp Frosts do mellow and prepare the ground  
To bear that Fruit with which the year is crowned.  
The Spring brings forth what Winters Bosom kept,  
And Summer ripens what in Autumn's reaped.  
Our changes here, if rightly understood,  
Are ordered forth in Wisdom for our good.   So. 
I'm glad (dear Self) you have so true a sense,  
Of that which God in Wisdom doth dispense.  
Let's then improve our time, the Winter's gone,  
The Spring is come, let's cheerfully go on.  
Fair Days and pleasant Ways should mend our Pace,  
And quicken forward in our Heavenly Race.  Bo. 
But who are these (dear Soul) whose nimble Feet,  
Make towards us, as if they would us greet.   

Temptations arising from Pleasure, Honour, Riches.  Soul. Body. Pleasure. Honour. Riches. Plea. 
A Merry day we wish you, why so fast,  
Come join with us and take your sweet repast,  
The Season, and the flow'ry-mantled Earth,  
Invite to take some recreative Mirth.  So. 
We wish you well, but must improve our day,  
Our Pleasure lies in keeping on our way.  
We Pilgrims are, in waste we must not spend  
That time should help us to our Journeys end.  Plea. 

What mean you thus to take this course severe,  
And tie yourselves unto such rules austere.  
In curious Gardens stored with choicest Flowers  
Go take your Walks, and rest in shady Bowers.  
Of Jessemine and Honeysuckle sweet,  
Where Philomela the youthful Spring doth greet:  
There hear the feathered Minstrels carolling,  
With chanting Notes teaching their Young to sing;  
In heat of day, procure refreshing sleep,  
In flowery shades where purling drills do creep;  
Go take what pleasure either Streams or Field,  
Mountains or Dales, Meadows or Heaths do yield  
With pleasing Objects feast your careful Eyes,  
Your weary limbs refresh with exercise.   

Look how the silver Swan in all her Pride,  
With arched Neck through Crystal Streams doth slide.  
And to the Oziered Island floats in State,  
To hatch her Young and to relieve her Mate.  
See how the wary Trout that deep did lie,  
Springs up to catch the Artificial Fly.  
The greedy Pike darts to the trolling Bait,  
And being struck, flies when it is too late.  
The nimble Hawk no sooner spies his Prey,  
But to the Clouds doth take his towering way.  
And with high Airy Plumes hastens to fling,  
The trembling Fowl down from his mounted Wing.   

Twice doth the doubling Hare trace the same Grounds,  
Thrice leaps, to cast off the pursuing Hounds.  
The eager Dogs the lost Sent having found,  
Open, and make the neighbouring Woods resound.   

But if these rural Pleasures don't invite,  
Repair unto the City for delight,  
With Masques and Plays, and Triumphs please your Eyes,  
From Feasts and flowing Cups, let Mirth arise.  
With music's sweetest Airs your Paces measure,  
And gratify all Senses with full pleasure.   So. 

Forbear vain trifl'ing Youth, that only feels  
Delight in that which sensual pleasure yields.  
Poor empty Joys, that in such ways are had,  
Mouths filled with Laughter, whilst the Heart is sad.  
Vain Mirth, where Sadness, feigned smiles doth bring,  
And Sorrow's forced against her will to sing.  
Not only vain, but vexing such as first  
Makes shows to quench, but yet increaseth thirst  
Like the Sea-Water that at present wets,  
Whilst drinking down, but then inflames and frets.  
Poor bitter Sweets, Pleasure that with it brings,  
A little Honey armed with many Stings.  
Short at the best, as by experience found  
How many chant unto the pleasant sound:  
Of Harp and Organ, and sweet Lessons sing  
Unto the well-tuned Viols quavering string.  
Who in slight Mirth their flying days do spend,  
And in a moment down to Hell descend.   

Should the condemned Man, whose time is short,  
To get his Pardon, spend that time in sport.  
Yet many such poor cheated Souls there be,  
That play away their opportunity.   

Or should those Souls that are with Manna fed,  
To feed on Ashes, leave their Heavenly Bread.  
No, no, your choicest Sweets are bitterness,  
Compared with those Delights their Souls possess.   

We have not lost our Pleasures, only chose  
Those Fountain Comforts, that through Virtue flows:  
It is a pleasure to us to deny,  
That which you count your pleasure to enjoy.  
And if it's sweet to bid false joys adieu,  
What pleasure is it to enjoy the true.  
Such as arise from reflect Acts of Grace,  
From open Visions of Gods glorious Face;  
From precious Promises brought home with power,  
From hidden Manna which the heavens do shower.  
From that choice Joy the Comforter doth bring,  
And that true Peace that doth upon it spring.  
From that white Stone, engraved with that new Name,  
Which none doth know but those that have the same  
From that sweet witness given tot he Soul,  
It's Name is written in the Heavenly Role.  
From hence true pleasure flows, and where possessed,  
Is better felt, than by the Tongue expressed.  
And if such Pleasure be in a fore-taste,  
What will there be when we sit down to feast.  
If God to them that seek him will be kind,  
How good is he to those that do him find.  
If Drops afford such Comfort, then what will  
Those Rivers yield, where we shall drink our fill.   Hon. 
I see your raised thoughts mind higher things,  
Come then and soar aloft on Glories Wings:  
Go seek the Prince's Favour, and reflect  
Illustrious Beams, from his benign Aspect.  
Leave Paths obscure, mount the Tribunal Chair,  
With those Grandees that Tyrian Purple wear.  
With Senators assemble in the Gate,  
Join Counsels in the great Affairs of State.  
Whilst Lanes of bowed Knees your passage grace,  
And Heads uncovered press to see your face.  
Creep not below, but climb the mount of Fame,  
Let high Achievements blazon forth your Name;  
By acts of Prowess raise immortal Glory,  
And let your Conquests fill some future Story.  
In Triumph ride, through Acclamations loud,  
Of Joy and Praise sent from the numerous Crowd.  So. 

Go try the Bramble, there you need not court,  
But find acceptance with a high transport.  
You must not think the Olive to seduce,  
With trifling things to leave his fattening Juice;  
The Figtree quit his Sweetness, or the Vine  
For gaudy trouble leave his Cheering Wine.  
No, these have better things, and so have those  
That for their portion Heavenly things have chose:  
They know the worth of what they do enjoy,  
And won't be cheated with a shining toy;  
A glorious nothing, gilded emptiness,  
A painted Crown, a dream of Happiness.   

Poor transcient Glory, that a smile, a frown,  
Quickens and kills, raiseth and casteth down.  
That fetcheth being from that fading breath,  
That can't preserve itself from stroke of death.  
But could it last, it's better to sit still,  
Then for to rise, and serve another's will.   

Unstable Honour, whose high Seats expose  
Unto the malice of inviduous Foes.  
The raging Storms upon the Mountains fly,  
Whilst the low Valleys under shelterly.  
Mean Shrubs secured are from those fierce strokes,  
That rents and fells the lofty spreading Oaks.  
Those gallant Colours, waved on highest Masts,  
Are often blown away with angry blasts.  
Happy's that Man that's not perplexed at all  
With care to climb, nor yet with fear to fall.  
What's more uncertain than the People's Praise,  
That like a flame of crackling Thorns doth blaze?  
Which on a sudden with great noise doth rise,  
But straightway falls, and in dead Ashes lies.  
Or which is worse, their fickle Breath doth cry,  
Hosannah one day, next day Crucify.   

What Honour is it Countries to overcome,  
And lie enslaved to our Lusts at home.  
To lead forth Captives from the ensanguined Field,  
Whilst Captives unto sin ourselves we yield.  
And armed against us suddenly do bring,  
The King of Terrors, with envenomed sting.   

True Glory springs from Gods Eternal favour,  
The Righteous is more ex'llent than his Neighbour.  
It's those that honour God shall honoured live,  
He will unto them lasting Honour give.  
So as to Saints and Angels, they shall shine  
With that same Glory, that survives all time.   Rich. 
Poor Creatures, fond of Meanness, come be wise,  
And learn to value what you now despise.  
Join wealth to these, or these by wealth obtain,  
The way to Honour and Delight is Gain.  
Heap up abundance, and therein content,  
Why should your days in strait'ning wants be spent.  
By this you shall against all fear provide,  
As in a City strongly fortified.  
Come tread the Path of Plenty, take your way  
To that will shelter in a stormy day.  So. 

We are not fond of Meanness, for this Path  
Is trod by those are truly rich in Faith.  
Heirs of a Kingdom which they do pursue,  
And leave false Riches to enjoy the true.  
They are the mean ones that do meanly choose,  
That can for Paris Paradise refuse.   

It's not true Honour that with Money's bought,  
Honour should seek out us and not be sought.  
Preferments are debased when given forth  
Upon account of Wealth and not of Worth.  
And when obtained, how with a trifle crossed:  
The comfort of it spoiled, itself soon lost.  
Whilst Mordecay a bended Knee denies,  
Haman's not pleased with all his Dignities.  
That Face that smiled upon him, straight doth frown,  
That Hand which raised him, quickly threw him down.   

Nor can he pleasure take, whose troubled Breast  
To get and keep, will give his mind no rest.  
It's not in worldly things content is found,  
Who farther off, than those that most abound.  
Poor Naboths longed for Vineyard doth destroy,  
The comfort of what Ahab did enjoy.  
True Wealth is not without, but in the mind:  
He that hath least, may most Contentment find.  
The greedy Worldling hath no cause to boast,  
He that desireth little, he hath most.  
He that hath much, and grieves he hath no more,  
For all his Wealth may be accounted poor.  
He is not rich, that greedily aspires,  
But he is rich, that boundeth his desires.   

Nor is there shelter in this gilded Path,  
Riches avail not in a day of Wrath,  
They can't secure us under failing breath,  
It's Righteousness that must preserve from Death.  
In vain we trust that in an evil day,  
Which makes wings to itself and flies away.  
Tyrus, that heaped up Silver as the dust,  
In Sea environed Walls, and put her trust  
In Gold accumulated as the Mire;  
Was left unguarded to the wasting Fire.  
Why should we therefore set our hearts upon  
That which is not, because so quickly gone.  
Why should we load ourselves with that thick clay,  
Will turn us from, or tyre us in our way.  
With sorrow pierce our hearts great store to have,  
Of that which will not pass beyond the Grave.  
We smile, that Pagans send their dead from hence,  
With Money in their hands for their expense.  
We have no need to heap up so much Dust,  
We soon may serve our Wants, never our Lust.  
It's Food and Raiment, with Contentment blessed,  
That will suffice to bring us to our rest.  
What's used we do enjoy, the rest lies by,  
And only serves to please a careful Eye.  
He hath enough that hath enough to spend,  
On what is needful to his Journeys end.   Rich. 
Come be not so morose for to deny  
What we invite you to, before you try.  So. 
We need not try, for trial hath been made;  
By one more able, hear what he hath said, 
Sandys his Paraphrase on Ecclesiastes 2.   
Great Works I finished, sumptuous Houses built,  
My Cedar Roofs with Gold of Ophir gilt.  
Choice Vineyards planted, Paradices made,  
Stored with all sort of Fruits, with Trees of shade.  
And watered with cool Rivulets that drilled  
Along the Borders, these my Fish-pools filled.  
For Service and Delight, I purchased  
Both Men and Maids; more in my House were bred.  
My Flocks and Herds abundantly increased,  
So great as never King before possessed.  
Silver and Gold, the Treasures of the Seas,  
Of Kings and Provinces, foment my ease.  
Sweet Voices, Music of all sorts invite  
My curious Ears, and feast with their delight.  
In greater Fluency not Mortal Reigned,  
In height of all my Wisdom I retained.  
I had the Beauties which my Eyes admired,  
Gave to my heart whatever it desired.  
In my own Works rejoiced, the recompense  
Of all my Labours was derived from thence.  
Then I survayed all that my Hand had done,  
My troublesome Delight beneath the Sun.  
What solid Good can Man's Endeavours find,  
All is but Vanity and grief of Mind.  Rich. 
Come let us leave these Hermit's to pursue,  
Their melancholy Fancies, So adieu.   

The Exceptions of the Flesh, as to Self-denial, in reference to the Things of the World, answered.  Soul. Body. Bo. 

MY dearest Friend, are we not too precise,  
Should we condemn all lawful exercise.  
And from black Choler take our scanty measure,  
Rejecting all exhilerating pleasure.  
Should Honour be so slighted, when we know  
It is a Gift, which God's Hand doth bestow.  
His Hand for Joseph high Preferment wrought,  
And from a Prison to a Palace brought.  
Where the Egyptian King reserved the Throne,  
But left the Rule to Joseph's care alone.  
He must in Phar'oh's second Charr'ot ride,  
Whilst Bow the Knee, before him, Egypt cried.   

Of Jesse's Seed, the youngest Son by Birth,  
God raised above the Princes of the Earth.  
He from a Sheephook to a Sceptre goes,  
And from a Sheep-fold to a Kingdom rose.   

God seated Daniel at the Median Helm,  
To Rule the Victor's great enlarged Realm.  
In casting down, he made him yet more great,  
In casting out, preserved him in his Seat.   

And after him renowned Mordecay,  
Was raised by God to bear the chiefest sway,  
Within the Persian Empire next the King,  
His Fame throughout the Provinces did ring.   

And as for Riches, is it not expressed,  
That Abram was with Gold and Silver blessed.  
And did not Job for Flocks and Herds excel,  
All that upon the Eastern Earth did dwell.  
And many more good Men, of whom we read  
In Wealth and Honour greatly to exceed.   So. 

Forbear (dear Self) what's good in these I prize,  
We may, yea, sometimes must use exercise.  
It's that which in its season's very good,  
As needful as our Physic or our Food.  
That tired Mind and Limbs repaired thereby,  
May better to their proper work apply.  
But herein most in Pleasures do offend,  
They love them for themselves, not for their end.  
Or which is worse, they take contentment in  
Those which are sinful, or prove baits to sin.   

Honour's a Blessing, and should be employed  
For public good, by those it is enjoyed.  
Like raised Clouds they should sweet Showrs dispense,  
And fill the Vales with suitful influence.  
But many like the Clove-tree drain the Ground,  
And leave the place they stand on barren round.  
Thus did not Mordecay, of whom we read  
He sought the Wealth and Peace of all his Seed.  
And Nehemiah, that in high Place stood,  
Denied himself, and sought the public good.   

Riches are good, when justly got, and when  
We rich are towards God and unto Men.  
When hungry Bowels are with Food made glad,  
And naked Loins are with warm Garments clad,  
When Fatherless of our free Bounty share,  
And Widows to our Table welcome are.  
But few there be that rightly thus employ,  
Or justly get the Wealth they do enjoy  
How many hoard it up and let it rust,  
Or use it but as Fuel to their Lust.  
Be not deceived, the Devil often flings  
His Hook before us, hid in lawful things;  
That by such Artifice he subtly may,  
Gain to himself his much desired Prey.  
Those that of old the Marriage Feast refused,  
Sought all by lawful things to be excused.  
The Devil did allure by what was good,  
From the rich Banquet of Soulsaving Food.  
It's not the Things themselves I do despise,  
But that same Mortal Hook that hidden lies.    

The Soul encountering with various Errors.  Soul. Errors. Error. 
1. IF unto Can'an you are journ'ing, stay,  
What need you tread such flinty tiresome way.  
Here lieth a Path in which you'll find more ease,  
Keep but your Heart for God, you Men may please.  Soul. 
It's better in rough ways to gall our Feet,  
Then in smoothed Paths a galled Conscience meet.  
Your Latitude doth contradict the Word,  
Those that seek Men to please, can't serve the Lord.  Er. 
2. Obey your Guides, and if they lead not true,  
It's they shall suffer for it, and not you.  Soul. 
As well blind followers, as blind Leaders shall,  
Within the miry Ditch together fall.  Er. 
3. Here lieth a cleaner Path, a way wherein,  
You may be perfect now and free from sin.  Soul. 
This is soon said, but still hath been denied,  
By those that took the Scripture for their Guid.  
This Paul disowned whilst here, who did excel  
Most Saints that do on this side Heaven dwell.  
John, the Asserters of it, doth condemn,  
As self-deceived, having no truth in them.  Err. 
4. In this same upper Road your way doth lie,  
Leave Ordinances, live immediately  
On God himself, go not about I pray,  
When as to Heaven you have a nearer way.  Soul. 
Till all the Nations in the World are taught,  
Till all the Saints are to perfection brought.  
Till Christ himself from Heaven doth come again,  
The Word of Truth holds forth, these shall remain.  
And in the use thereof such Saints were found,  
As did for Gifts and Graces most abound.  Err. 
5. Come turn this way and take the safest Path,  
Would you be justified, mix Works with Faith.  
Or lay by Faith, and Feav'n by Works possess,  
Why dream you of another's Righteousness.  Soul. 
And why not lay by Mercy, lay by Grace,  
For so it is, where Works do thus take place.  
Then Flesh may Glory, and to boasting fall,  
If Works instead of Christ, are all in all.  Err. 
6. Let Humane Reason guide, a Beam Divine  
Of that same Wisdom which in God doth shine.  
In all your Actions by her Compass steer,  
Believe no more than what is in her Sphere.  Soul. 
Mere Humane Reason, as it can't perceive,  
So neither will it Spiritual Things receive.  
Unto the Work of Renovation blind,  
Not many Wise, or Learned, do Heaven find.  
And those of them that find their way aright,  
Are only such, as in God's Light see Light.  Err. 
7. Dispute no farther, for the Church hath said,  
Here lieth your way, and aught to be obeyed.  Soul. 
Prove this a true Church first by Scripture Light,  
Many pretend thereto that have no right.  
Next that she cannot err, in what she saith,  
Or else I know not how to fix my Faith.  Err. 
8. If that same Spirit doth in thee abide,  
That Scripture wrote, you want no other Guid.  
Fellow his Dictates, and his Voice obey,  
What need you Scripture to direct your way,  Soul. 
The teachings which the Spirit doth afford.  
Are for to open and apply the Word.  
It is by Scripture Light that he doth Guido,  
And by that Light is willing to be tried.  
He that to Heaven the ready way would find,  
Must in the Word the Spirit's teaching mind.   

The Souls Morning Meditation upon the Rising of the Sun.  Soul. So. 

SEe how the Sun in Beauty doth appear,  
Raising his Head within our Hemisphere:  
Like to a Bridegroom in his best Array,  
Or as a Prince on his Cor'nation day:  
Or the High Priest, whom Silver Trump doth call,  
To celebrate some solemn Festival:  
So with bright Splendour doth this Lamp abound,  
In Robes of Glory circumvested round.  
If it be sweet and pleasant to the sight,  
For to behold this great illustrious Light;  
How far transcendent will our Pleasure be,  
When we the Son of Righteousness shall see.  
And by our sight to Glory be transformed,  
Like unto that with which he is adorned?   

How swiftly doth this Golden Lamp ascend,  
And his bright Rays throughout the World extend.  
Although this Terrene Globe be very great,  
reckoned in Breadth Seven thousand miles complete?  
Yet doth this Lamp in largeness far exceed,  
From whence we may collect his flying speed.  
For in few Minutes from his first access,  
To our Horizon, doth he forward press.  
His vast Diameter, until he rear  
The whole thereof within our Hemisphere.  
And so runs forward with Gigantic pace,  
(Like one refreshed with Wine) his joyful Race,  
That God who strengthens this unwearied Sun,  
Will help his Saints their Heavenly Course to run.  
And they that love the Lord with hearts upright,  
Shall go forth as the Sun in all his might.   

How fleet a thing is Time, when this swift Race,  
Is made the measure of its winged pace.  
Posting from Morning to Meridian height,  
Then flies with treble shade to call up Night.  
So is our Life, our Youthful Morning Sun,  
Speeds to the Achme of its full aged Noon.  
Then down the Hill to dusky night it hasts  
And as it goes, long shades of weakness casts.  
Is Time so swift and short, yea shorter yet,  
Because our Sun before its Noon may set.  
Then let us reckon up our Time as fast,  
And every Moment count it as our last.  
And so accounting, see our Work be done,  
Before the setting of our posting Sun.   

This Prince of Planets largely doth dispense,  
Throughout the World vivifick influence  
To Fruits and Plants, and all things that here grow,  
Yea, penetrates unseen to things below:  
Producing of those rich Metallick Veins,  
Which the dark Entrails of the Earth contains.  
Gifts for Delight and Use, his potent Rays,  
In plenty through the Universe displays.  
If God by this created Light doth give  
Such Gifts unto his Foes that here do live:  
What good and perfect Gifts shall the upright  
Receive from God the Father of all Light?   

Again, observe when this same luminous Globe,  
Retireth from us in his obliqne road;  
Then frigid Blasts from gloomy Skies prevail,  
And nipping Cold with frequent Storms assail.  
And when this golden Lamp withdraws his Light,  
Dark Clouds invest the long umbrageous Night.  
Whilst couchant Beasts rouse from their Savage Cave,  
And with fierce steps after their Prey do rave.  
So when the Fountain of all Light and Grace  
Withdraws and hides the Visions of his Face,  
Then is it Winter with the troubled Soul,  
And pensive thoughts, like Clouds of Darkness role.  
Then doth the cruel Lion, couched before  
In secret Den, with dire Temptations roar.  
But as the Sun with cheerful Light doth thaw  
The frozen Earth, and near unto us draw;  
The heart of Man with vernal Joy is glad,  
And fragrant Meads with flowery Mantles clad.  
Pastures are clothed with Flocks, with Corn the Vales,  
And shouting Joy breaks from the Hills & Dales.  
So when the Son of Righteousness imparts  
His near approaching Beams to drooping Hearts,  
Then doth sweet Joy their troubled Spirits raise,  
And pleasant Fruit crown their reviving days.    

The Souls Trials arising from Desertion.  The Soul and her Friend. So. 
HOw pleasant as an Angel is thy Face,  
Like dawning day that sable Night doth chase?  
I know your Learned Tongue can time a word,  
Which may to weary Souls true rest afford.  Friend. 
To meet you thus far on your way I'm glad,  
But troubled at your Looks, to see you sad.  
Dear Friend, unbosom to me now your heart,  
What help I can, I freely shall impart.  So. 

I know you will, and therefore shall declare  
With open heart, my Troubles what they are.   

Once in smooth Seas I spread my well-filled Sail,  
Running my Course before a pleasant gale.  
The Sky was azured with the glistering Rays  
Of heavens bright Lamp, gild my peaceful days.  
The Stars from Orient Heads did beam forth Light,  
Yielding delightful Steerage in the Night.  
Then with calm mind could I directions give,  
With words in season, weary Souls relieve.  
With meekness lapsed one's restore through Grace,  
And dislocated Bones set in their place.  
The feeble Knees with strength I fortified,  
And wandering steps in Paths of Light did guide.  
And from my Lips the sad perplexed mind,  
By their resolved doubts did comfort find.  
Like the ascending Sun I joyful rose,  
And with the strong to run my Race I chose.  
At Night lay down in Peace with silent Breast,  
My closed Eyelids gave refreshing rest.  
Then full Assurance yielded this support,  
I should with gladness make a happy Port.  
But whilst my cheerful Vessel thus did ride  
Before the Wind, upon the streaming Tide,  
Black Clouds and racking Seas my Joys invade,  
Wrapping my weary Soul in Death's dark shade,  
By mighty Tempests drove with leaking knocks,  
threatening to split me on the surly Rocks:  
By raging Billows in black Darkness tossed,  
My fears begin to give up all for lost.  
In short (dear Friend) this is my woeful case,  
Those quick'ning Rays which beamed from that bright Face:  
That Glory gives to Heaven, and Heaven here,  
Are all with-drawn and wholly disappear.  
That Lamp of God that shined upon my Head,  
And round about my Path bright Glory shed;  
Now ceaseth to afford its cheering Light,  
Leaving my mournful Soul in dismal Night.  
Unready in her Trials to believe  
Those Truths by which she others did relieve.   Fri. 

Dear Friend, let not desponding thoughts thus move,  
Though God may change his Way, yet not his Love.  
Nay, out of Mercy he may think it best,  
Thy Soul should not on such choice Viands feast.  
He sees how aptwe are to grow secure,  
To think our Mount unmoved shall endure;  
And hence it is he brings in changes here,  
To keep our Souls in reverential fear.  
He sees how ready now we are to set,  
A higher value on ourselves than's fit.  
How apt we are under bright Beams to slight  
Those tempted Souls which want that blessed Sight.  
And therefore hides his Face, and thereby shows  
That we should friendly sympathise with those   

It may be those sweet Joys by Vision brought,  
Thou dost not truly rate them as they ought.  
And now the Price hereof he will enhance,  
And teach thee how to value every glance.   

It may be God is pleased to try thy Grace,  
And therefore for a time withdraws his Face;  
To see if Faith and hope will follow on  
In Paths of Life, when Sense and Feeling's gone.  
And whether thou, when Comforts are away,  
Wilt out of Love unto himself obey.   

But were it only from his Sovereign Will,  
What cause is there in Silence to sit still?  
Those Joys in Heaven he'll give thee at the last,  
Will make amends for all thy Sorrow past.  
But yet (dear Soul) remember every Word  
That may support unto thy Faith afford.  
Consider Light is for the Righteous sown,  
Joy for the upright is in furrows thrown.  
And though it buried lies there for a Night,  
Yet will it spring up by the Morning Light.  
Keep then thy Feet and Faith in Wisdom's ways,  
And give not up thy Hopes in cloudy days.  
But wait on him that sometimes hides his Face  
From the beloved Seed of Jacob's Race.   So. 
Dear Friend, I will consider what you say,  
Your solid Words in serious Balance weigh.  Nuncius. Nun. 
THe wakeful Tempter always on his watch.  
Thinks this a likely time his Prey to catch.  
And as assaulting Forces, where they spy  
The weakest place, there plant their Battery.  
So Satan swelled with hope, and filled with rage,  
Against the Soul, where weakest, doth engage.  
But still supporting Grace defeats his power,  
And yields assistance in a needful hour.   

The Soul Conflicting with the Assaults of Satan.  Satan. Soul. Sat. 
POor weary Soul, lay by thy labouring Oar,  
And run thy Vessel on the quiet shore.  
Go take thy Rest upon this pleasant Coast,  
Thou dost but toil in vain thy Labours lost.  So. 
It would be lost if I should take up short,  
(As thou wouldst have) of my desired Port.  
No, here I am resolved my Course to steer,  
And if I perish I will perish here.  Sat. 
In vain thou hop'st this Tempest to outride,  
And make thy way both against Wind and Tide.  
Seest thou how sin and suff rings on thee role,  
Like mighty Waves ready to sink thy Soul.  
How one great Deep, doth to another call,  
Whilst Water Spouts, with dreadful Noise do fall.  So. 
It's no vain hope, for he that doth command  
To follow him, will help with his right hand.  
That Sins too many are, too strong, it's true,  
But not for Grace to pardon, or subdue.  
And though it be a black and stormy day,  
I'll wait on him whom Winds and Seas obey.  Sat. 
And wilt thou still to him for help repair,  
That hides his Face and shutteth out thy Prayer.  
Who over Heaven gloomy Clouds hath spread,  
That neither Sun or Stars may Brightness shed.  
Who in his Anger cruel Bow hath bend,  
And poisoned Arrows in thy Bosom sent.  
And on thy-Neck hath bound thy sinful Yoke,  
And all thy Bones i'th' place of Dragons broke.  
Will Men for Shelter to a Lion fly,  
Or wait for Mercy from an Enemy?  So. 

Thou art that roaring Lion, that dost watch,  
With hungry Jaws, the simple Soul to catch.  
The Enemy of God and all Mankind,  
Taking unwearied Steps thy Prey to find.  
And having sound, and drawn into thy power,  
Makest it thy greatest pleasure to devour.  
But with the Lord Compassions do abound,  
The poor and needy this have always found.   

Embarked Jonah from God's Presence fled,  
A dreadful Storm from God straight followed.  
In vain the Seamen toil with labouring hand,  
To bring their beaten Vessel to the Land.  
All that they do can no relief afford,  
Until their guilty Fares cast overboard.  
A Whale doth straightway seize him for her Prey,  
And to the Roots of Mountains rolls away.  
Great Deeps his Soul do round about enclose,  
Incensed Floods and Waves upon him flows.  
In sighs his fainting Soul deep sorrow breathed,  
Whilst Reeds about his mournful Head are wreathd.  
Three days imbared in Jaws of Death he lies,  
Yet unto God he looks, for favour cries.  
God hears and pities, gives the Fish command,  
The Whale makes haste to set him on dry Land.  
Thus God is ready to extend his Grace,  
Unto poor Souls that seeks his blessed Face.  
And when he doth his own rebuke for sin,  
It's that he may their Souls to Mercy win.  
To pensive ones that do confess their Error,  
He'll be a Tower, though now he seems a Terror  
That hand that wounds his own, that strikes so hard,  
That hand will bind them up, that hand will guard;  
And self-abasing Souls shall quickly know  
He'll be their Friend, that seems to be their Foe.  
If not in God, then where can help be found?  
That hand can only cure, that did me wound.  
Unto those Arms of Mercy I will haste,  
And on free Grace my Soul for ever cast.   Sat. 
How God deals sometimes with his own, what's this  
To the Presumptuous Soul, thou'rt none of his.  
Nor is he thine, do not thyself deceive,  
His Arms will not the Hypocrite receive.  So. 
Should it be so, proud Tempter, it's high time  
To hasten to him, that he may be mine.  
To cry to God (who ready is to hear)  
To make my Heart upright, my Soul sincere.  
To drive me to him, God hath sent his Rod,  
It's good for me then to draw near to God.   

Contemplations suited to the Soul that hath found Morning Comforts, after a Night of sad Desertion and sore Troubles.  Soul. So. 

FRom the dark Vale where Death enthroned doth sit,  
From the great Deep, and from the dreadful Pit,  
From Caves, that lodge the free among the dead,  
From lowest Dungeon, where no Light is shed.  
From wandering Maze, where the umbrageous Wood  
Is ranged by hungry Lions for their Food.  
My Soul is brought, preserved from threatening harm,  
To sing the Praises of his glorious Arm.  
When on my Soul the mighty Waters pressed,  
When breaking Clouds, with thunderclaps distressed,  
When over-whelming Terrors on me rolled,  
And Pains of Hell upon my Soul took hold;  
He from deep Floods my trembling Soul did catch,  
From yielding Mud my sinking Feet did snatch.  
From Thunder Spouts my struggling Head did shield,  
And from Hell's Terrors timely help did yield.  
His quick'ning Favour did revive, and save  
My fainting Soul from the devouring Grave.  
And he whose Mercies always do endure,  
Upon a high Rock did my Feet secure.  
It's he that Ashes into Beauty turns,  
Anoints with Oil of Joy the Soul that mourns.  
That doth the Needy from the Dunghill raise,  
And  the Pensive with the Robes of Praise.  
He with White Garments doth the sad adorn,  
And turns the shades of Death into the Morn.   

Let weary Souls to him address their Cry,  
On tender Mercies still by Faith rely.  
To them that trust him, shall be Mercy shown,  
Although in Deeps at present they are thrown.  
For he attends unto the humble Prayer  
Of those that to the Throne of Grace repair.  
And though amazing Terrors may invade,  
They shall be sure to meet with timely Aid.  
And he that thinks it fit they should be tried,  
When done, their Feet in Paths of Joy will guide.  
That so with Songs of Praise, they may advance  
His Name, that shines with helping Countenance.   

And hast thou now my Soul true Comfort found,  
And with Salvations are thy Temples crowned?  
Improve the Peace thou hast obtained at length,  
The Joy of God is sent to be thy Strength,  
That thou may'st lively walk unto his praise,  
Who doth revive thy Soul with quickening Rays.    

The outward Man under Weariness and Fears of not holding out, relieved by the Soul.  Soul, Body. Bo. 
WHat need is there (dear Soul) of so much haste,  
Let's take more time, I cannot move so fast.  So. 
Our Christian Life's a Race, and must be run  
With active speed, until the Prize be won.  Bo. 
Is there no smother Path that may be found,  
Then this same rough uneven stony Ground;  
That so our labouring Feet relieved may,  
With greater ease, run the remaining way?  So. 

No, no, my dear associate, Wisdom hath  
Set this before us as our fittest Path,  
It's only they which lawfully do strive,  
That shall with Conquest at the Goal arrive.  
Then let's with Patience run, and vigorous force  
Press forward, till we finish up our course.  
These Agonists that strove in Grecian Games,  
Once celebrated on Olympic Plains.  
That from Elaean Judges sought Applause,  
How strictly kept they to Her culean Laws.  
The Runners with their nimble Feet did hold  
The bounded Tract to the appointed Goal.  
With strained Limbs how did they forward thrust  
Unto the longed for Mark in Clouds of dust.  
And with contending Strife did agonize  
To crown their Brows with the desired Prize.  
Which being won, the Cities with Renown  
Received their Victors through their Walls thrown down.  
As if it were inferior to their Sat,  
To make the Entrance at the common Gate.   

If they with stretched out Limbs did strive to come,  
Encircled with a fading Garland home.  
And thought it worth their pains, for sading Breath,  
To trumpet forth their Glory here on Earth,  
How strictly then should we with flying pace  
Press forward daily in our Christian Race,  
Where Saints and, Angels our Spectators are,  
And the great Judge sits in Tribunal Chair  
For to reward the Victors in this Strife,  
With an immortal glorious Crown of Life.  
Who in the Records of Eternal Fame,  
Shall always have an everlasting Name.   Bo. 
Those Souls are blessed indeed that win the Prize,  
Whose Conquest Saints and Angels solemnize.  
That enter Heaven with triumphant shout:  
But as for me I fear I shan't hold out.  So. 
Fear not but view that great encircling Cloud  
Of Worthies, that with Acclamations loud,  
And veiled Crowns, ascribe unto free Grace  
Their strength to run and conquer in this Race.  
But above all, behold with fixed Eye,  
Our great Forerunner Throned and Crowned on high.  
Who to the Faint gives power to hold on,  
Increaseth Strength to them whose Might is gone.  
It's he by whom the Work of Faith's begun,  
It's he upholds it, till the Race be run.  
Come then, press on, thy Feet are drawing nigh  
Unto the Borders of Eternity.  
Put forth thy utmost Might, stretch out thy hand,  
The Goals in sight, the Crown doth ready stand.   

The Souls Meditation upon Eternity.  Soul. So. 

LOng Age of Ages, how long to demand,  
Makes posed Arithmetic, in silence stand.  
To reckon up its date, she is not able,  
Wants places in her Numeration Table.   

Can we together in one sum amass  
The Stars of Heaven, and the Piles of Grass.  
The numerous Sands that on the Seashore lie,  
The Minute Atoms, in the World that fly;  
The Drops of Rain and Fleeces of the Snow,  
The Grains of Corn that ever yet did grow,  
The Leaves that Autumn from the Trees hath cast,  
The thoughts that through the Heart of Man have past.  
This would not make a Measure for to stretch,  
Unto its end, or yet its middle reach.   

Duration, not divided, by what's past,  
Or yet to come, but still the same doth last.  
Eternal NOW, that always doth remain  
Wheeling about to the same point again.  
A Circle without Radius, that doth run  
Into itself, beginning not begun.  
Immensurable, by the longest Line,  
That can be stretched out by aged Time.  
Can we a Line of Figures lengthen out,  
Enough to gird the highest Sphere about.  
And the last number to be reckoned there,  
Stood for the Unites place of Plato's year:  
Yet all those Millions would not rise to be  
The smallest Fraction in Eternity.   

Oh number numberless, unto whose store,  
Addition is not able to add more.  
Oh endless ever, where we must confess,  
Subtraction cannot make it one jot less.   

Oh bitter Sin, Oh dear bought Lust,  
For which the Soul Eternally is thrust.  
From the Supreme and Universal Good,  
Into the Torrent of the Sulphurous Flood.   

Depart from me, a Sentence full as Dire,  
As go you Cursed into Eternal Fire.  
If when the Body with the Soul doth part,  
Such Mortal Pangs and Gripes do seize the Heart?  
Who can conceive the Souls convulsive Strife,  
In its seclusion from the Spring of Life?  
A loss that doth in one all Loss express,  
Full Separation from all Happiness.  
Besides this Loss, cast into burning Deeps,  
Where Terror reigns and Sorrow never sleeps.  
That without ease or respite, undergo  
The constant Racking of eternal Woe.  
Vessels of dreadful Wrath, prepared wide  
To hold full measure, swallowed up beside.  
Plunged in Gulfs of Sulphurous Whirlpools bound,  
Sinking in Horror, where no Bottom's found.  
Perpetually with bitter Anguish tossed,  
For misspent Time and golden Seasons lost.  
Whose Songs are turned to Scritches, and their Mirth  
Into the Pangs of everlasting Death.  
Where damned Souls can neither fain or fear  
Greater or worse Torments than they bear.   

Oh wretched Souls, that in dire Flames must dwell,  
Longer than Words can utter, Numbers tell.  
That every moment, whilst in liquid Fire,  
They burning are, think this must ne'er expire.  
That do fetch in, unto each moment's pain,  
That EVER which in it they must remain:  
And add unto their present Misery,  
The endless Torments of Eternity.   

Oh blessed be those Souls, that through rich Grace,  
Are ransomed from this ever dreadful place.  
In whom Eternal Life is here begun,  
Running through this into the World to come.  
Death changeth not our State, but the Degree,  
Grace here begun, in Heaven shall perfect be.  
Where weary Saints enjoy their longed for rest,  
And hungry Souls on choicest Dainties feast.  
Where Shields and Swords are turned to Harps and Palms,  
And Sighs and Sobs to blessed Hymns and Psalms.  
Where Saints, with Angels, in sweet comfort sing,  
With well tuned Lyres, the Praises of their King.  
And there behold that Beatific Sight,  
That fills their Souls with unconceived Delight.  
Viewing the highest Object ever praised,  
With highest Acts of Understanding raised.  
With such clear Views, as infinitely will,  
The Soul with perfect Satisfaction fill.  
And by the Visions of that Light Divine,  
Transform and make them with his Glory shine.  
For through th' enlivening influence of his Face,  
He perfects and draws forth their quickened Grace.  
Here all imparted Glory that's made known,  
They view it so, as that which is their own.  
And all the good that from Effects do flow,  
They in the first and chiefest Good, do know.  
And know it so, as to enjoy the same,  
At the Spring Head, from whence all Goodness came.  
No Good shall blessed Souls desire, or will,  
But at this Fountain shall receive their fill.  
United always, to that Good supreme,  
Which evermore into their Souls shall stream.  
For Saints shall have with him a perfect Union,  
And so all Good from him in full Communion.   

Oh happy State, where no dark shade doth fall,  
For Glory here is always vertical.  
No sable Cloud shall once obscure their Sun,  
No Night or Sleep shall hinder Joys begun.  
No long continuance shall abate Delight,  
Nor full Enjoyment dull our Appetite.  
But still Desires as large, Delights as fresh,  
As the first moment we did them possess.  
No Sorrow shall those blessed Souls annoy,  
That enter once into their Masters Joy.  
Not only that same Joy their Master gives,  
But that same Joy in which their Master lives.  
Not only filled with their Master's Bliss,  
But swallowed up in that same Joy of his.   

Oh blessed Ever, where all Joys remain  
Full and unchanged, Eternally the same.  
The Comforts that we do enjoy below,  
Successive are, and ebb as soon as flow.  
In those are past, we have no interest,  
Of what's to come we are not yet possessed.  
Only the presents ours, if that we may  
Call that our own, which fleets so soon away.  
But in Eternity it is not so,  
Our Comforts there, no alteration know.  
Thou shalt not then desire more than thou hast,  
Nor canst thou wish for any Comfort past.  
But all together shall enjoyed be,  
And that unchanged unto Eternity.    

Glad and welcome Tidings to the Soul.  Soul. Angels. So. 
WHat is it these swift Messengers do bring,  
Cutting the Pliant Air with golden Wing?  
Whose Faces as the flaming  show,  
And Garments wear, white as the bleached Snow.  
Their dazzling Brightness fills with trembling fears,  
Though in their cheerful Looks good News appears.  Ang. 
Fear not, for we your Guardian Angels are,  
And have from Heaven glad Tidings to declare.  
Victorious Soul, successful Sword lay down,  
And now put on, the Star-enchased Crown.  
Come set thy Feet in this triumphant Close,  
Upon the Neck of all thy conquered Foes.  
Thy Warfar's finished, and thy Race is run,  
The day's thy own, the glorious Prize is won.  
The flaming Sword that guardeth all the ways  
Unto the Tree of Life, with fiery blaze  
Is ready to give way to thee, choice Soul,  
As having right to eat without control.  
Make haste, ascend with us, and take thy share,  
With Crowned Saints that Verdant Palms do bear.  
Drink of those Streams of Bliss which he bestows,  
At whose right hand Rivers of Pleasure flows.  
Inherit all things in that good Supreme,  
From whose bright Face all Happiness doth beam.  So. 
Oh welcome News, more welcome unto me,  
Than Trumpet sounding to a Jubilee.  
But what am I, that Heavenly Powers should come  
For to convey me, to my longed for home.  
I'm ready blessed Guard, only I find  
Disturbing thoughts to leave my Friend behind.  
We long have lived together, and have fared  
Alike in Joy, alike in Sorrow shared.  
We hand in hand waded the Vale of Tears,  
And jointly fought and wrestled through our Fears.  
Have been but one, and must we severed be?  Ang. 
Yes for a while, it's by Divine Decree:  
And but a while, yea soon shall meet again,  
And never part but always one remain.  
And one invested in that happiness,  
Which thou before art going to possess.  
Go take thy leave, with Comfort cheer thy Friend,  
On Cherubs Wings to Glory then ascend,  
Unto that House of Bliss not made with hand,  
Which in the heavens Eternally doth stand.  
Into whose gladsome Windows shine always  
The joyful Beams of everlasting day.   

The Soul and Bodies mutual Valediction to each other.  Soul, Body. So. 

FArewel, dear Body, now for ever blessed,  
From weary Labour take thy lasting rest.  
Fear not within this shade to lodge thy Head,  
Thy blessed saviur hath perfumed thy Bed;  
And in the Morn will raise thee with his Voice,  
That we united may in him rejoice.  
Corruption shall in Incorruption rise,  
Stripped from the Rags of all Infir mities.  
No Pain, no Sickness, shall this State invade,  
Nor meager Death, threaten with gloomy shade:  
But Mortal, puts on Immortality,  
And conquered Grave yields up the Victory.  
No Tears from henceforth shall bedew thine Eyes,  
Nor shall sad thoughts within thy Breast arise.  
Dishonour shall be rasied in Glory bright,  
With radiant Beauty in meridian height.  
Each part proportioned in right Symmetry,  
And all things tempered in sweet Harmony.  
Frail Weakness shall in mighty power appear,  
That so it may a weight of Glory bear;  
And with unwearied Strength his Praise resound '  
That gave forth Grace, and Grace with Glory crowned.   

This Natural Body shall from Dust arise,  
A Spiritual Body, as to Properties.  
Enabled in an instant for to fly,  
Beyond the Convex of the spangled Sky.  
And with the Soul in highest Acts Divine,  
With cheerfulness for ever fully join.   

Rest then in hope, thy weary Eyelids close,  
Lie down in Peace, and take thy sweet repose.  
In Jesus sleep, thy Union still doth hold,  
Though thou returnest again to thy first mould,  
Each Atom of thy Dust he'll safely keep,  
Till he shall raise thee from this silent Sleep.  
And by his Power, this Clod of Earth calcine,  
That it may like the Sun in Splendour shine.  
And this vile Body in Corruption sown,  
Change like that glorious Body of his own.  
That as the Earthly Image thou didst bear,  
So in the Heavenly thou may'st then appear.   Bo. 
Farewell, dear Soul, Oh blessed be that Name,  
That did infuse thee in this Terrene Frame.  
Praised be the great Creator, that informed  
This Body with thee, thou with Grace adorned.  
Whereby my wandering Feet were guided right,  
From dark Maeanders into Paths of Light.  
And though to Dust I must again return,  
Yet I shall rise in Glory from my Vrn.  
If Chemist can that Gold extract again,  
They mixed with other Metals, to a Grain.  
And if opacous heaps of Dust and Sand,  
May be transmuted by a skilful hand,  
Into such Bodies which transparent shine;  
As doth appear in Glasses Crystalline.  
Why then should foolish Atheists think it strange,  
That God should gathered Dust to Glory change.  So. 

Once more farewell, until we meet a-again,  
We that together suffered then shall reign.  
As thou dear Friend, with me the Cross didst bear.  
So thou with me the Crown of Life shalt wear.  
We that together here in Tears have sown,  
Shall reap those Joys to Mortals yet unknown.   

Oh blessed State for worthless ones prepared,  
Where God himself becomes their great Reward:  
As causally he gives all Good to his,  
So formally himself will be their Bliss,  
The Great, Supreme, and Fountain Good, will be  
Immediately our full Felicity.   Bo. 
Again farewell, I shall no longer be,  
As I have been, a hindrance unto thee.  
When next we meet, I shall be tuned to sing,  
The high raised Praises of our Heavenly King.  
No Darkness, Dulness, shall this Heart arrest,  
No straightening Hardness any more molest.  
But then unwearied I, for ever shall,  
With thee dear Soul and Powers Angelical,  
Be exercised in Services Divine,  
As freely as the cheerful Sun doth shine.    

THE EPILOGUE.  
THe Soul, by Angels guarded, swiftly flies,  
Beyond the reach of all her Enemies;  
To take Possession of that Mansion bright,  
Which is the Portion of a Saint in Light.  
And after short and light Affliction bears  
Triumphant Palm, and Crown of Glory wears.  
On peaceful Throne, from weary Labour rests,  
On Beatific Vision always feasts.  
Encircled round with all the Bliss above,  
Lodged in the Bosom of Eternal Love.  
The Happiness whereof who can declare,  
If thou wouldst farther know it, get a share.  
FINIS.   

THE CONTENTS OF THIS POEM.  

THe Soul Contemplating upon the powerful Work of Effectual Vocation, page 1.  
The Souls Epithalamium, or Nuptial Joy, page 2.  
The Nuntius, or Interpreter of the Scenes, page 4. 8. 41. 52. 64.  
The Diffidence of the Flesh, arising from Difficulties reasoned against by the Soul, page 5.  
The Soul preparing for Trials, page 10.  
Temptations arising from Old Companions, page 15.  
She Souls improvement of time in Meditation, upon Light, the first days Work, page 19  
Trials arising from Displeasure of Parents, page 21.  
The Souls Evening Meditation, page 26.  
Meditations upon the Moon, page 30.  
Trials arising from cruel Mockings, page 32.  
The Souls Specch to Revilers, page 38.  
The Complaints and Fears of the Flesh removed, particularly concerning Persecutors, page 42.  
Gamaliel's Specch to Persecutors, page 46.  
The Soul administering Cordials to the outward Man, to prevent Faintings under Sufferings, page 53.  
The Soul so lacing herself in those Apprehensions she hath of the future Peaceable Kingdom of Jesus Christ, page 57  
A brief Account of the intermixture of Providence in our Pilgrimage, page 65.  
Temptations arising from Pleasure, Honour, Riches, page 66.  
The Exceptions of the Flesh, as to Self-denial, in reference to the Things of the World, answered, page 82.  
The Soul encountering with various Errors, page 86.  
The Souls Morning Meditation upon the rising of the Sun. page 90.  
The Souls Trials, arising from Desertion, page 94.  
The Soul Conflicting with the Assaults of Satan, page 100  
Contemplations suited to the Soul that hath found Morning Comfort, after a Night of sad Desertion. page 104.  
The outward Man under Weariness and Fears of not holding out, relieved, page 107.  
The Souls Meditation upon Eternity, page 111.  
Glad and welcome Tidings to the Soul, page 118.  
The Soul and Bodies mutual Valediction to each other, page 121.   
FINIS.