A TREATISE OF BLAZING STARS IN General.  
As well supernatural as natural: To what Countries or people soever they appear in the spacious World.   shooting star 
SOUTH.  
WEST.  
NORTH.  
EAST.  
LONDON, Imprinted by Bernard Alsop, and are to be sold by Edward Wright at his shop near Christ Church gate. 1618.:   

A Prognostication of Blazing Stars, according to the opinion of the Poet Pontanus.  

OF stirring winds, with blustering blasts which blow,  
Of bloody broils, by force in fatal fight:  
Of people's pomp, the piteous overthrow.  
Of Potentates the death, in woeful plight:  
The Blazing Stars aloft like lamps of light  
In th'Est or West of azure coloured skies,  
Forewarnings and signs when they arise.   

If still they stand, and offer not to change  
The place, where first in sight they cast their beams,  
Then shall ensue much mischief rare and strange:  
As gaping wounds, and sluzing bloody streams,  
In fought field, twixt nigh adjoining Realms.  
Such civil storms shall overrun the land,  
That some shall bathe in kindred's blood their hand.   

And if they take their course unto the East,  
A sign it is that foreign foes with force  
Prepare apace, to spoil both most and least:  
With edge of sword sweet life still to divorce  
From panting heart, devoid of all remorse.  
Thus East or West in sight, they have their doom,  
And signs they are of things in time to come.    

Why, and whereupon Blazing Stars have their Names, CHAP. I.  
FOrsomuch as a man furnished with all kind of knowledge and learning, should so search after the understanding of great and high matters, 
A reason for understanding of blazing stars.  that he have not meaner things in contempt and disdain, by whose benefit (as experience teacheth) the greater are attained, because they minister certain helps and aids to aspire and reach unto them. Hereupon it followeth, that lesser things are not to be neglected, without the which there is no passage to the greater, nor any possibility to pierce to the perfect proof of them, except by the forerunning of them preparation be made for us to ascend. and climb up to the hidden knowledge of the other. Therefore, lest this our labour lent and laid out for common utility and profit should be subject to the biting blows of furious envy, and lest such as desire perfection in profession, as also certainty in delivering Doctrine, should complain, that we sell shadows for substances, fantasies for verities, and imaginations for demonstrations: we will say somewhat in the entrance of this work, touching the name of a Comet or Blazing star, and so pass orderly to our purpose.  
The star which the Grecians call Cometa, 
A Blazing star is named after the form and figure which it beareth.  the Latins Stella crinita, we Englishmen a Blazing sttarre, hath his denomination (as well by the assertion of the one, as the other from the form and figure which it beareth, at such time as it appeareth in the air: because this kind of star seemeth (in our opinion and judgement) to shoot out long streaks of fire in the Element, or bright and lightsome sparkles continued in length like unto the hair, which the Grecians call Coma, and thereupon Cometa, and the Latins Crinis, whereof it is named Stella crinita: 
The names of Blazing stars.  so that the resemblance or representation which this Star giveth, is the occasion that it is called a Comet, or Blazing star, As Augustus Caesar called that star, which appeared at such time as he published Pageants of pleasure: and shows of Triumph, by the name of a Comet: and which Suetonius Tranquillus called Sidus crinitum, and divers others have semblably termed,  
Neither was the Imposition of this name absurd, or against reason: 
The likeness of blazing stars as sometimes they appear.  for whosoever shall judiciously behold those kind of Stars, he shall perceive, though not most perfectly, yet not very darkly) how it shooteth out long and slender lines of sparkling fire, this way and that way, insomuch, as a man would think and suppose the same not much unlike unto scattered hair to a broom or a rod of birch, to the tail of a Peacock, to the beard of a man, etc. as we are taught by demonstration.   

That Blazing Stars are sundry and divers. CHAP. II.  
BLazing Stars are not only very many in number, but also divers in appearance. The Sect of the stoics said, that they are beyond two and thirty, 
The Stoyckes opinion of Blazing stars.  of whose sundry names and several effects, Abienus not unwisely hath written.  
Concerning their number and names, we are here to be not curious: wherefore we will come to their colours and likenesses wherein there is not an uniformity and general agreement, but a difference, For some blazing-Starres seem blood red, horrible to behold, 
Blazing stars differ in colour  and (as it were) crisped and curled in the Crown or upper part, tending towards the Skies: whereupon they are commonly called Comets. of which the Poet hath this saying: 
Like as in moist and dewy night,  
When Comets red as blood,  
Appear aloft: the spectacle,  
and sign is little good.   
This Figure have they, when they are thick on the one side, and stretched out in length on the other side.  
Some Blazing Stars there be, 
Blazing stars vary in figure. Trailed stars.  which have a certain hanging downward at their lower part, in the likeness of a long beard, or the mawne of a horse: which happeneth by reason of the thin matter and substance which is in the other parts, which kind of stars are called Pogonii.  
Other some there are, which appear in the likeness of a spear or javelin, and they are called Acontij: 
Spear stars.  or such a one as testifieth Pliny, did Tiberius Caesar, in his Consulship, pen passing and excellent Poems, or Verses of notable invention and singular conveyance.  
Other some there are, shorter somewhat than the former, 
Sword stars.  and they be shaped towards the top like a sword, whereupon they are called Piphij, resembling in colour gold after a sort, but yet so notwithstanding, that (of all other) they are most pale, wanting beams, blazes, or streaks: having nevertheless a cereain brightness in them, like the glittering of a sword.  
Other some there are which are called Phitites, 
Tun stars.  in form and fashion like a Tun, having in the hollow part of them the show of a smoky and smothering flame, much like unto the Blacke-Smiihs Forge, or vessels daubed and sméered with pitch, set on fire, which cast a dark and misty light, and men have sometimes used for the preserving and fresh keeping of their drink.  
There are besides them that we have reckoned Comets called Certarij, 
Horn stars.  because they appear to our sight in the similitude and likeness of a Horn: Such a one was seen, when the Grecians encamped at Salamina.  
Othersome also there are, which be called Lampades, 
Lamp stars.  because they cast a show of a burning torch, or flaming Lamp of which sort sundry have been, and that not very seldom.  
Furthermore, some there are which be called Hippci, 
Mawne stars.  because they seem to have about them (as it were) a Horse Mawne, going round about them in circle wise, with strange moving and swiftness.  
To be short, some Blazing Stars are seen in the Air, glistering with strikes and streams like bright silver, that it passeth the ability of man's eye to look and behold them, wherein (as in a clear glass) God is represented, in the likeness and shape of a man. And such a one (as some do hold opinion) was that which appeared to the Wisemen in the East, 
A Blazing star reprpsenting as it were in a glass, the Image of God.  and conducted them to the place where Christ was borne: concerning the appearing whereof, thus said he to the Hierosolomite. We have seen his star in the East, and are come to do him worship.  
But touching this, we purpose (peradventure) to say somewhat in the winding up of this work. We know not that beside these which we have rehearsed, there be many more forms and figures of Comets or blazing stars, and many more sorts, of which particularly to discourse, is not our meaning or ontent, nor yet a matter of such weight and importance, that it should require present and perfect handling: we will therefore to that which is more necessary.   

In what part of Heaven blazing stars appear most commonly. CHAP. III,  
THey that have written things notable, and profitable of Astrology, and have discoursed things concerning the influences and governments of Stars, in such sort and order, that the knowledge issuing from their travels, offereth fruit not deserving repentance: 
In what part of heaven Blazing stars are seen.  They (I say) have affirmed, that Blazing Stars never appear in the West part of Heaven: but either under the North, in some one part or other, but uncertain: howbeit, most commonly in that bright and clear part, which is called the Milky Circle: or else (which is seldom seen come to pass) they appear in the South Pole, but yet without any blazce, in the● seasons of Winter especially: yet it is recorded, that a Come appeared to the Aethopians, and to the Egyptians, and that the King of those people, gave that Blazing Star a name, calling it Typon, because it had in it a double resemblance, namely of a round ball, and of a fire, in so much, that according to the judgement of sense, it might not so aptly be called a Comet or Blazing Star, as a fiery or flaming ball, or a round compassed and burning knot.   

At what time of the year blazing stars appear, and how long they continue. CHAP. FOUR  
ALthough Damascene (an Author in my judgement worthy reverence (is of opinion that a Blazing star, is a star newly made and created for the time present, which vanisheth out of sight, and ceaseth to appear, when the thing whereof it is a signification is accomplished, and come to pass: yet notwithstanding, experience (whom writers name, the Mistress of many mysteries) informeth and teacheth us, that a Blazing Star may appear at any season of the year: but more often in summer and then specially, when the star called Canicula ariseth, and ruleth the weather and time of the year, according to the proportion of the influence, and that they continue seven days at the least, and not above fourscore at the most, the authority of Pliny, giving countenance to this opinion.  
Howbeit, this assertion, together with the testimony of Pliny may be improved by examples: For (as it is universally known) a Comet, which appeared before the overthrow of Jerusalem, was seen blazing in the Element, to the wonderful astonishment of the people, by the space of a whole year, as Eusebius and josephus verified.  
But we must note, that this Comet, and the appearance of the same, which was full of horror, is not to be ascribed unto Nature, but to be attributed immediately unto God, 
The opinion of the Pythagorists touching Blazing stars.  the Father and founder of Nature, although the sect of the Pythagorists thought, that all Blazing stars were to be referred unto Nature who hath provided that their appearing should be at certain definite, and appointed times of the year.  
Touching these Blazing Stars also, of the same sect there was some, who supposed they were perpetual stars, and not temporal, and that they had an ordinary course to run, as other stars have their revolution and circular motion, and that their appearing proceeded from none other cause, than when they were, forsaken and left of the Sun, whose brightness and nearness is the occasion as they think, that Blazing stars do not appear.   

Whereof Blazing stars are engendered (according to the judgement of Divines) and what they are indeed. CHAP. V.  
THe Religious Divines, like very well of this plausible and true opinion, that Blazing stars come of no other cause, then from the holy Counsel and Providence of God; that there is no matter of their generation, 
Original of Blazing stars.  as Philosophers imagine, but that God maketh them immediate messengers and Ministers of his will, according to the time and place, as it best pleaseth his high and eternal Majesty: (that by them) he might give us advertisements of afterclaps, to prepare ourselves onward to meet his fatherly mercy, or to suffer the bitterness of his sharp judgement. Whereupon they infer this consequent, that Blazing Stars are supernatural, and mere world's wonder.  
To whose Sentence I agree, and most willingly assent, being thereto moved by arguments of forcible persuasion, and in number infinite. Principally, because it is a Christians duty, to ascribe more to God's providence, then to the force of Nature, whom God hath not only Created, but also doth dispose and govern.  

Some Blazing stars natural, othersome supernatural.  Yet for all that, I may not utterly deny, that they are natural, for so much as I am not (or at least ought not to be) ignorant, that Nature causeth blazing stars; howbeit so, that God is the Original and principal worker of such wonders and that their ground and causes are natural, and not so secret and doubtful: but that otherwhile the capacity and reason of man may conceive and compass them. And yet contrariwise, I stand not in denial, that those blazing stars are supernatural, which the most mighty Monarch of the heavens, Creator of all creatures, and Maker of all Stars and Spirits, raiseth of nothing to something, upon a sudden, in a moment and prick of time, to the admiration of all men, and to the revealing of his Omnipotency.  

All things are possible to God.  Expedient and necessary it is to believe, that with God all things are in ability, and that whatsoever is done either by day, or by night, naturally or supernaturally, it cometh to pass by his appointment, and that it pleaseth him otherwhiles to create something of something, and otherwiles again, something of nothing. To that which never had matter, can he give fashion and figure, and beautify that with form and comeliness, which never had Foundation nor being. It consisteth in his might to moisten the earth with showers distilling from the clear skies, without the means of lowering and dropping clouds. He can work both ways, to whom nothing is impossible: Now gathering the clouds together in an heap, from the uttermost corners and coasts of the world, now turning again lightning into rain, which covering the heavens with clouds, and preparing rain for the land: For, Great is the Lord, mighty is his power, and of his wisdom there is no number or end: And therefore I am easily drawn to believe, that Blazing Stars may immediately appear from God, and be supernatural, when it pleaseth God, upon (some singular cause) to give them beginning, matter, and substance of nothing.  
Such a Blazing Star (no doubt) was that Pillar of the cloud, 
The pillar of the cloud, and the plller of fire were Blazing stars supernatural. The Blazing star which appeared in jerusalem, was supernatural.  whereby the Lord (in old time) most miraculously went before the Israelites his people out of the Egyptian Soil into the Land of Promise in the day time: and that Pillar of fire, which never left the face of Gods chosen in the night.  
Not unlike to this was that Blazing star (as I suppose) which threatening destruction to jerusalem, was of no less continuance than terror, enduring the space of a whole year, which is not proper to natural Blazing stars.  
To conclude, as well Divines as Philosophers and Astronomers affirm thus much in this case, that always, in a manner, Blazing stars do arise of cases natural, albeit the Lord God is the prncipall author and worker of them, as in the Chapter following it is evident.   

Whereof Blazing stars do engender; according to the rules of Philosophers; and the Canons of Astronomers, and what they are in deed. CHAP. VI  
COncerning Blazing stars I find some disagreement between Philosophers and Astronomers. Anaxagoras and Democritus said, That a Blazing star was nothing else but a certain bright shining in the Element procured by the conjunction of two stars: To which opinion, I myself of late did somewhat incline and lean.  
Othersome also there were, which supposed a Blazing star to be but a certain dim and dark light compassed, and (as it were) closed up in a cloud. Other some said, that it was a cloud purged, and purified from earthly matter and grossness, which receiving light from the other Stars, casteth abroad clear streaks of brightness, small and slender, like unto hair, or fine wrought flax,  
Othersome again, thought a Blazing star to be but a certain cloud, 
Aristotle his opinion of Blazing stars, and their generation.  kindled and set on fire with a hot flaming clearness whose opinion Aristotle seemeth to have favoured, who supposed that a Blazing star did consist of a dry vapour, which being drawn upward into the highest air, is there set on fire: and that this blazing star taketh substance of earthly exhalations, very hot, dry, fat and clammy: which being carried into the upper region of the air, is there kindled and burneth: to whom all Philosophers (in a manner) of this our age have subscribed, and some Astronomers also, who with Aristotle think no less, than a blazing star to be but an earthly vapour, somewhat thick, fast and fat in substance, like oil or bird-lime which being drawn upward, me to the Sphere of the fiery Element, and touching the hollowness of the Orb or circle, is thereby heat rarefied, made thin and set in a flame: so that by the consent and mutual agreement of these two sects (although some do vary) it is concluded that a Blazing star is engendered and made of Air, set on fire, by reason of the nearness of the Element of Fire, that Air containeth in the matter and stuff of a blazing star, and that the Air next adjoining, and being by the element of fire, is called a Blazing star, and is no less indeed than it is named. Which representeth the colour of fire to our eyes, because the dry vapour in it is kindled, burneth, and lasteth with the light of the flame, which is moved to and fro, by the under air: where vapours of like nature, quality and substance arising, give continuance and length thereunto, whereby it purchaseth the name, after which it is usually called.  
Upon this agree our late Philosophers, in a manner all, counting the doctrine of Aristotle, worthy credit and subscription: although as well the sect Stoical vary therefrom, 
The opinion of the Stoics touching Blazing stars.  affirming Blazing stars to be but ordinary Stars, not differing from other Stars which appear in the Air, and to ●ee above thirty and two in number, not as also they, which hold this for a verity, blazing Stars to be perpetual Stars, and to keep a limited course or compass, but never to blaze and glister in the Air: save when they are left and forsaken of the Sun, whose clearness dimmeth and dampeth up their brightness, that it can neither appear nor be perceived. And they in like sort, which lean to this opinion, that blazing stars, be Stars, having their certain appointed times of appearance.  
Now, as I descent not from the first, those I mean, whose opinion draweth nearest to reason and truth, so I vary not altogether from them, who hold opinion that a blazing star may be supernatural, and also natural, and that the same taketh generation of a fat human, and of fiery force, whereby it is dissolved, and at the length consumeth.  
Whereupon this consequent is to be inferred, that we cannot call a Blazing Star properly a Star, but Catachrestically, as we may so term them, I mean (using in our phrase of speech) a certain abuse: although Augustus Caesar (whereof we have given a 〈…〉 in the beginning of this our Treatise) called that Blazing Star, which appeared at such a time as he published his Pageants of Triumph, by the name of a Star: and which usurped name also Suctonius applieth to the self same thing: they both adding unto it this word Crinitus, which we also, with no less abuse than they call Blazing.  
This Blazing Star aforesaid, which appeared in the time of Augustus Caesar, and shined so gloriously, some imagine, 
An erroneous opinion misliked and improveds  and suppose, to be the self same star which directed the Wisemen to the place where Christ was borne. But I cannot allow of this opinion, and why I do so much mislike thereof, the reasons in the next Chapter following, do declare. In the mean season, I would not wade into wonders above my capacity, lest I wander in wildernesses of doubts, but I desire rather to be wise with soberness.   

Whether the star which conducted the Wisemen to the place where Christ was borne, were the Blazing star, whereof the Emperor Augustus did speak, calling it by the name of a star. CHAP. VII.  
CHristian duty admonisheth me, in few words to make men●on, what manner of miraculous and strange Star that was, which (after a rare and wonderful fashion) lead the Wisemen unto Christ being in his infancy. Which same men (very rashly, and with want of advisement) conjecture to be the Blazing star, which appeared, and cast a great light at the same time, that Augustus Caesar made show as of great pampe and solemnity, whose arising was in the North part of heaven, about the eleventh hour of the day, and continued (as Pliny plainly testifieth) seven days space full and complete.  
Of which thing, although Picus Mirandula hath not godly and gravely discoursed: yet think I, that it is my duty, compendiously to reason, what in this point may be maintained, without hurt or prejudice. And so much the rather, because I would not seem in this matter, to favour the Astrologians, for so much as they swarm as far from truth, as the world is made, and the heaven is high.  
Concerning the Star, I mean that which appeared at Christ his nativity, the Evangelist, whose evidence is ●●yed with the touchstone of truth, writeth in this wise. 〈◊〉 garten Astera auton en ●e anatole. 
For we have seen his star in the East.  Among all which word of this clause, penned, by the finger of the Evangelist, the Latin interpreter turneth this word con Astera, Scotland 〈…〉 (no doubt) and 〈◊〉 The Evangelist yet again saith thus And behold, the star which they saw in the East, went before them, until by approaching, it stood over the place, where the 〈◊〉 was.  
By these testimonies, it is apparent and manifest, that neither After, nor A●●ion, do signify Blazing star. Whereby the errors of Phlenon and Harpocrates, are convinced, 
They appeared in contrary regions & at sundry times of great distance: ergo they were different stars.  who also deemed that the Star which showed and shined in the East, and was the Wilemens' direction to judaea, was the self-same Blazing Star, which in the time of Augustus Caesar (as is aforesaid,) so gloriously glisteren: when it is as evident (as the Sunshine at noonday) how that Blazing-Starre appeared many years before the Nativity of Christ, and arose in the North part of heaven: whereas the Star (which was the wisemen's guide into Bethlehem (appeared in the East.  
Furthermore, what man would so seen be alured to believe that a Blazing Star would be thought of the Wise men, a thing of such certain and infallible Prognostication, that the arising and proceeding thereof, should embolden them to commence such tedious journeys, and to attempt so many weary labours: wherein they might be of this opinion and judgement as well, that the Blazing star gave foreknowledge of something else, besides the Nativity and birth of the King of the jews.  
Wherefore it is more credible, that those Wise men followed the Star which then appeared, either upon persuasion of the book which Seth compiled: or else by the motion of Balaams' prophecy: for that they were of the Kindred and affinity of him, as some hold opinion: Or else by the ministry of Angels, or by Heavenly inspiration, or else by admonition & warning given in 〈◊〉, which might (why not?) give them understanding as well of this, as it gave them knowledge (afterwards) to avoid the presence of Hreod, and to return another way into their country, and not the same by which they came.  
No man is able sufficiently to declare the enenicus opinion of julianus, that irreligious revolter, 
julianus the Apostata his opinion, as repugnant to reason & verity refuted.  who affirmeth this Star (which he calleth by the name of Asaph, according to the opinion of the Egyptians) of custom and went, to appear every four hundredth years, and that it betokeneth many things both marvelous and mortal.  
But tell me (if thou canst) thou false Prophet and perverse Apostata, if thou wilt have thine opinion, carry away, countenance of credit: How cometh it to pass, that those Wisemen never attained to the understanding of that Star, and the determinate arising of the same, 
A question to good purpose.  at a definite and appointed time, but that they then came to the intelligence thereof, when it was within the contemplation and view of their eyes? How cometh it to pass that the appearance thereof was so far from horror and mortality, and that it gave presignification of joy, that to them was borne the King of the jews? And if it be effectual to work wonders, and to compass strange and prodigious events, why then did it not every four hundred years (by succession, season and degrees of times) prognosticate some semblable thing, like unto that which was communicated to the knowledge of the Wisemen? why did it not, after a thousand, five hundred and thirty years, or within the compass and revolution of that time, bring forth a new King to the world, or some other rare and wonderful effect, to kindle in the hearts of men, manifest admiration? or else if it suffered an Eclipse or deprivation of that singular quality, and so become dry, barren, and unfruitful: why did it not appear still, though weakened in working, but lest utterly and for ever appearance in the Heavens.  
Thou swa●uest therefore, and wanderest far and wide from the sincere truth, and givest a witness of thy pertinacy to all people, and of thy soul impiety towards God, in that thine own opinion, which is mere erroneous, seemeth unto thee passing plausible: thou (in the mean season) derogating from christian Religions due reverence, and struggling with tooth & nail to make it contemptible. But all in vain, thou wrestles with the waves, which in the end will overwhelm thee in thy wilfulness. For, the truth giveth in a contrary verdict against thee, with the which whosoever have armed themselves to encounter success hath not been prosperous, because they attempted combat with a mightier than themselves, and being overmatched, were carried into captivity, 
The Author's judgement in the winding up of the controversy.  and cast into confusion. This Star therefore which the Wisemen saw, was no Comet or Blazing-Star, as divers have dreamt, but some new star which of purpose was appointed to express the providence of God, as in the gospel it is apparent: not being of the number & host of them, wherewith God garnished the firmament in the creation: but differing all Stars both Fixed, Wandering and Blazing, which to be this testimony affordeth authority; For that there be some which are of this judgement, and holds it for a verity: That in this stare (as in a glass) was included the likeness of a Child: unto which Opinion they might (peradventure) be induced, by the words of the Wisemen saying: Behold, we have seen his star in the East.  
It could not choose then, but be a new Star, and a Star importing a miracle: For so much as neither the self same, nor any like unto it, ever appeared in the former ages, nor at any time shined in the skies for the space of a thousand five hundred and thirty years, after the Nativity of our comfortable Saviour, Being I say, a star by the grace of God created, for the execution of his message, whose pleasure being accomplished it consumed, vanished, and was no longer object to the eye-fight of men being causal and temporal, not natural and continual.  
But of this Discourse sufficient is said, as well for the improving of unsavoury opinions, as also for the discovering of the infallible truth requirable in this present purpose. Now will I make a retrogradation, and return to mine arguments, concerning Comets or Blazing stars, having thought my pen not unfruitfully occupied in this last particular.   

Whether Blazing stars proport and foreshow some strange & wonderful thing to follow. CHAP. VIII.  
IT is called in controversy, whether Comets commonly termed Blazing-starres proport any prodigious thing and world's wonder. Some in this behalf seem to be resolved, 
Blazing stars are signs of some strange thing to come  and make their answer in this sort: That as Blazing stars are rare & seldom. so they signify some thing that is rare and very strange, unto which opinion they cleave, being thereunto drawn partly by daily experience, and partly also lead by the causes from the which they set their original.  
And to say the plain truth, when have Blazing stars cast their glimmering beams, and lightened the air with their glistering brightness: but something hath followed, contrary to common course, and far otherwise then by usual and accustomed order is received? Why then should not Blazing stars as they are rare, so infer and draw with them rare effects? And why should we otherwise think, then that by their generation also, some strange thing is signified: seeing that other Stars shining in the firmament, are thought not only to have been created for the service of men: but also for the distinguishing of times and seasons, of days, months and years, and for other ends also, which are privy only to God's secret counsel? specially for that our Lord jesus, judged not the superstitious Pharisees (notwithstanding his sore denunciations of woes against them) altogether deserving reprehension: nor utterly blamed the Sadduces for their diligent observation of the Wether, 
The pharisees & Saducees not altogether condemned for their due and precise observation of the weather.  & marking the face of the Firmament giving judgement: that if the coulles of Heaven were such and such, then semblable to be the success of the seasons, As, if it were covered with red clouds in the evening, that then men should be in expectation of the next days bright clearness. Which ceremony of theirs purchased in process of time such credit and belief, that it grew into a common and familiar Proverb: 
What man can say of certainty.  
The Evening this doth signify.    

CHAP. IX. The good and evil which Blazing stars do prognosticate, and betoken.  
AS it is received for an undoubted truth, that Comets carry with them a Prognostication of some strange wonder: so on the other side, it hath been precisely noted, and by due observation confirmed, that they threaten some eminent evil & mischief: for which consideration a Blazing star was called, a sign of Heaven, A Token of great fear, by which name excellent men, Authors (I mean) or Writers of singular learning and judgement have termed it. Not that the Blazing star is to be feared, as if it could do harm unto man, but because the omnipotent God, and guide of the heavenly host, by the same (as by a burning beacon) giveth us warnings & watchwords of afterclaps and punishments: and to assure us, that he it is, and none besides him, that is universally to be feared, not with a servile, but with a filial fear. Considering, that he hath peremptory power over the whole man, body and soul, upon which parts he consisteth: and is of ability to judge us to temporal chastisement for our amendment, or else to condemn us to eternal destruction, as instruments of reprobation.  
But to returns to the prognostications of Comets or Blazing Stars, it is found by authority, that in the time of Charles the Emperor, surnamed, the Great, a Blazing Star appeared, in the contemplation whereof, the Emperor having his eyes earnestly bend, and considering profoundly thereupon, at length he was rapt into a great astonishment, touching the signification of the same. And sending for a Philosopher, named Eginard; conferred and reasoned to and for with him about this Star, saying in conclusion, that the appearing thereof did threaten unto him some miserable calamity. Which the Philosopher hearing, to the intent that the Emperor should not be more amazed then need required, he rehearsed the saying of the Prophet in these words: A Signis coelum nolate metuere, Fear ye not the signs of Heaven, and let not the visions of the firmament strike terrors into your hearts. Which sentence the Emperor not mistiking, gave him thanks for that comfortable counsel, saying: That he remembered the duty of a Christian man to be this namely, to stand in fear of nothing, but only of him, who both created us, and also this Star. Which notable speech of so famous an Emperor, giveth a sensible instruction, why a Blazing star may be called a token of terror or a sign of horrible fear. Pliny also (many years past) affirmed, a Comet to be a terrible Star, and so inclined to destruction, that it deserved to be called mortal: as in the civil commotion, which was in the time of Octavius his Consulship, 
A blazing star threateneth destruction.  and also in the wars between Pompeius and Caesar, many probabilities are to be gathered, or rather, many verities to be avouched. To the words of which, Pliny, Virgil (the Prince of all Poets and Pliny's Predecessor) alludeth in this wise: 
More flashing flames of lightnings clear.  
From clouds shine not below:  
Nor Blazing stars, whose burning beams,  
Some fatal fall doth show, etc.   
And the same Poet in another place, inserteth these words.  
Strange stars did shine from skies in darksome night,  
And flakes of fire did fill the Air with light:  
A Blazing star with silvered strikes did shine,  
And made men's hearts for fear away to pine.  
Whom the Poet Lucan imitating, and setting before him, as a precedent, for the observation of order, useth these terms and Phrases of speech in his Poems.  
Not Blazing star with glimmering strikes of light,  
And lengthened hairs of colour red and white,  
Which brings to men (as many make report)  
Destruction dire in lamentable sort.  
Whereby it is to be gathered, that those kind of Writers were not ignorant, that a Comet or Blazing Star, did most commonly presignify and foreshow some imminent mischief, which in tract of time came to pass, and thereupon grew in use to be called, A terrible or fearful star.   

The mischiefs which Blazing stars forewarn to ensue. CHAP. X.  
FOrsomuch as it is declared already, that Blazing Stars always signify nothing else, than the approaching of some pernicious and mischievous thing, likely after to ensue: it remaineth, that this question be demanded. What manner of evils they be, where Blazing Stars are premonstrations, and foretokens? Whereunto I make this answer: That as Blazing Stars are divers, so are their effect and evils which they signify not all one, but sundry and differing. And forsomuch as the variety or diversity of them is to be considered: therefore it is necessary, that the effects which follow such causes, be accordingly conjectured.  
Some hold opinion, that it is to be marked, which way Blazing stars shoot their light, 
The observation used of some at the appearing of Blazing stars.  because (say they) that part of the earth seemeth to be threatened, towards which the Comet casteth his beams thickest and most directly. Again, it is to be noted, from what star they receive their force, and whence proceedeth their influence, what things they resemble, and represent in likeness, and in what places they appear.  
Furthermore, to touch the effects of Blazing stars, experiences manifold and innumerable have sealed this for a truth, 
The effects which have followed Blazing stars proved true by experience.  that sometimes they signify barrenness of the earth, sometimes the sickness of the plague and pestilence, sometimes dearth, and scarcity of victuals, sometimes great winds and tempests, sometimes extreme heat, sometimes Earthquakes, sometimes the flowing of waters beyond their bounds and banks, to the drowning and loss of the land, sometimes seditions, insurrections, cruel commotions, tumults and battles, sometimes change of Kings and Kingdoms, alterations of common wealths, and such slaughters as seldom are seen: with many more calamities infinite and innumerable: insomuch that Lucan the Poet thought it no matter of doubt, but of assured certainty, to call a Blazing star, such a Star as changed the state of Empires, and wrought the alteration of principalities. His verses follow in this order.  
Strange Stars were seen in darksome nights,  
The Heaven was on a flame:  
And flakes of fire like burning brands,  
Sore sights in skies did frame.  
The fearful Star which blazeth bright,  
And spreads his beams abroad,  
And changeth Kingdoms in the World,  
In th'air above abode.   

Sundry examples and testimonies, declaring the divers and manifold mischiefs, which have followed the appearing of Blazing stars. CHAP. XI,  
Lest any man should think this mere fabulous, and a very forgery, because I have said thus much, and that vyon the opinion and authority of other Writers, that divers Blazing stars presignify and give a forewarning of divers mischiefs and evils like to come, it seemeth unto me an enterprise worth my labour, to set down in a few words, and the self same agreeing with the true reports of Histories, the assertion above mentioned not to be imaginations or feigned. Wherein it shall not seem a matter depending upon necessity, to run through all particular examples, and to make an universal repetition of testimonies from the World's Creation, (which passeth the capacity of my wit to comprehend, because they exceed in multitude) But it shall rather be sufficient, and much more profitable, out of many to gather a few, and such indeed, as Authors (most worthy of credit) have set down in their Works and treatises.  
And first of all to begin with the noblest Writers, and best approved: 
A short enumeration or rehearsal of mischiefs which followed upon the appearing of Blazing stars.  Who is ignorant, that after the appearance of a Comet in the time of julius Caesar, not only civil wars followed, in manner most lamentable, but also the death and murdering of julius Caesar his own person, which was most miserable? who being 56. years of age, was assaulted, and set upon in a conspiracy. of 60. Princes and more, among whom were C. Cassius, Marcus, and D. Brutus, and being gored through and flashed with 23. wounds, in the Court of Pompeius despitefully perished, whereof P. Virgilius, Lucanus Pliny, Suetonius, Appianus, Plutarch, and divers other Writers of great authority are witnesses.  
What should I linger long in the repetition of those strange tempests, of snows, hapless, inundations of waters, and other like calamities, that followed the appearing of the same Blazing Star: Which F. Horatius doth not nakedly describe, but singularly set down with a kind complaint.  
Who knoweth not, what an unspeakable desolation, and wonderful overthrow of hierusalem's City, followed after the appearing of a certain Blazing Star, which was seen in the air, (josephus and Eusebius faithfully affirming no less) by the space of a whole year, burning with flames of lamentable destruction?  
The self same miserable massacre and desolation followed shortly after this Blazing Star, which the Lord himself, the Father of all mercy, and judge of all revengement, did not only foretell many years, ere it came to pass: but also wept for very sorrow of heart, as he was prophesying to jerusalem, her sharp Visitation. For our Saviour Christ (as the Evangelists testify) beholding the City, wept over her, and sounded as it were, in her ears this sorrowfall sentence: If thou hadst known (saith he) in that thy day, those things which belonged to thy peace, and now are hidden from thine eyes, etc.  
Did not the death of that most godly and religious Emperor Constantine, follow and issue the appearing of a Blazing Star, 
A Blazing star appeared before the Emperor Constantine.  which was seen Ann. Dom. 304. being of an unaccustomed bigness, & of no less horror to behold? And did not thereupon likewise follow an exceeding dangerous insurrection in the Empire, wherein (among many murders) the Emperor Constantius was spoiled of his life in the Castle of Helena. not far from Spain.  
In the year 444. a Blazing star was seen, which as it gave prefigurations & foretokens of afterclaps, so did there ensue most miserable slauters & calamities, specially in France, and not long after Collen (being assaulted & besieged of the Huns) was ransacked, spoiled, and made even in a manner with the ground: and the most Catholic Emperor Martian, was in a conspiracy of his own subjects (contrary to the religious oath of alleagiaunce) murdered and made away at Constantinople.  
After the appearing of a Star, in the year of our Lord, 584 there followed such an inundation of waters, in every place of the land, that it was averred and believed, a second deluge or universal flood, to have been prepared for the drowning of the whole World. After that ensued in Italy, so hot a pestilence, that within the compass of a little time, many thousands died in manner most lamentable. Not long after that, Rome tasted of the whip: 
A marvelous inundation of waters, with other notable calamities for warned by a Blazing star.  for the Lombard's laying siege against it, made havoc thereof out of measure. Upon the tail of which sharp punishment, there followed a worse: for the Saracens rose up with stern looks and bending brows, compelling the third part (almost) of the World which professed Christianity, to fall to Apostasy, and to take part with them in their damnable sect of devilish Idolatry, and detestable ungodliness.  
In the year of our Lord eight hundred and thirteen, there was a Blazing star seen most strange and terrible, whereupon ensued the death of that most Christian Emperor Carolus Magnus. 
A Blazing star appeared before the death of Carolus Magnus.  The Saracens assaulted Italy, and with violence of sword and warlike Engines, overcame and prevailed: not without the ruin of many a beautiful building, and shedding of much blood.  
In the year of our Lord, 1●84. there appeared a Blazing star, which did portend a manifest show of much mischief and misery: 
Bloody battles which followed after the appearing of a Blazing flame.  for in the year of our Lord, 1302. next ensuing, that memorable and bloody battle of Flanders was fought, which to the Frenchmen principally ministered occasion of many a lamentable Alas: for in that battle, the flower of the French Army, I mean the chiefest in place and countenance, and the gem of all their glory, went to wrack, suffering death no less ignominiously then tyrannically. And after that, Rodulph the Emperor, making siege against Verona, sustained great loss of his best appointed Soldiers, the Swissers, whose blood imbrued the blades of their enemies, their bodies lying upon the ground groveling and senseless: and the Emperor himself fight against Albert D. of Austria, was slain, only Emperor elected but not crowned. Now, what manifold miseries and mischiefs, 
A Blazing star shooting upwards, what afterwards ensued.  a Blazing star which shooteth upward, the head hanging downward, doth betoken, may soon be perceived, & known by the experience of a Blazing star, which appeared in the West, and took his course towards the North, which Star was seen in the year of our Lord, 1363. The woes whereof this Star gave foreknowledge, fell upon the Frenchmen, to their no smallsmart, and lamentable unlukinesse.  
For in a fought field against the Turks, howbeit, out of the compass of the French dominion, they were discomfited and overthrown, a hundred thousand of them slain with the sword, among which number was the Duke of Burgundy, who with the rest, lost his life without recovery.  
Not long after which infortunate conflict, namely, in the year of our Lord, 1406. Lodovick Duke of Clarence, and brother to the French King, was murdered at Paris most traitorously, and frandulently: the loss of whose life was death and destruction to a great number.  
And (that I may grow to an end) who doth not remember, what grievous calamities did follow the appearing of a Blazing star, in the year of our Lord, a thousand four hundred threescore and twelve, in the month of january, over Colen Eastward, to the terror of the Beholders, and astonishment of the bearers? There followed hereupon, in the Summer next, and immediately ensuing, a marvelous heat, engendered every where in the earth, which was of such strength and vehemency, that in some places, the first burst out, and cast up with it, even the very sand and gravel. Hereupon followed, not here and there, but every where battles and murders, mortal maladies, loathsome sicknesses, most noisome and infectious: yea, so horrible, that I want wit, either in writing to leave them witnessed or by utterance to make them manifest. At which time also, the right renowned Charles Duke of Burgundy, passed many warlike adventures, and achieved many a Martial exploit, to his no small commendation, and increase of deserved praise, notwithstanding the success of battle is doubtful and dangerous.  
In the year of our Lord, 1408. 
Further mischiefs which have followed after Blazing stars.  there appeared a Blazing star, which as in fight it was wonderful and terrible, so it betokened mischief no less innumerable, then either to hear, see, or recount is most lamentable: For not many days after, Luycke fell, and certain men to the number of 40. were cruelly slain. About that time also, (the Prussians entering battle against the King of Poland, were foiled, & a slaughter, the like not heard of) made of them in the conflict. At the same time also, was the Council at Pisa dissolved by a schism most damnable, the 〈◊〉 their convocation and meeting, being for the making and confirming of unity.  
Thereabout also began the Church to be ill appayde, and so stand in hazard of havoc: whose present assistant Sigismond the King of Hungary showed himself to be, in such sort with valiancy of spirit, that he might meritoriously challenge to be surnamed, The most Christian King. Thus far touching the evils, yea the heaps of evils which blazing stars have protended observed by experience and trial to be true, by the event & falling out of many misfortunes, 
The conclusion of this Chapter.  which both long ago, and also of late have happened. It remaineth that we know, whether they be not foretokens also of some good, which although many utterly deny, yet nevertheless read our further judgement.   

Whether Blazing Stars, do not as well betoken good, as ill. CHAP. XII.  
Having before declared, by reasons not a few, and proved also by examples of verity and truth, that blazing stars (for most part) are prefignificant shows and tokens of some mischief and evil: 
Blazing stars supernatural signs sent from God.  me thinks I hear one ask me this question. Whether Blazing stars are not tokens of good, as they are signs of evil? To whom I make this resolution. First, so far forth as blazing stars be supernatural, there seemeth in this matter to rest no doubt: because Almighty God, in the unsearchable profundity of his wisdom, is wont by the appearing of Stars, to give signs to his beloved servants (whom no doubt he hath fore elected to salvation) as well of joyful news as also of heavy tidings.  

The Rainbow a perpetual assurance of God's faithful promise.  For, hath he not by the rising of the Rainbow. in the clouds of heaven, sealed security and want of fear to the world, from being drowned, as sometimes it was in the days of our great Ancients? Did he not by the retrocession and backward going of the Sun (contrary to the order of his course) signify unto Ezechias, that his life should be prolonged, and the number of his days were augmented? Did he not also signify unto all nations, that the light was come into the World, which should shine in darkness, namely, jesus Christ to be borne for the salvation of all people: which thing he would have testified by the appearing of a new Oriental Star, visible to the eyes of the Wisemen, and gloriously glistering? Even so doubtless, there is no cause, why the fight of a Blazing Star should not breed in us, 
Blazing stars natural may betoken some good.  as well hope of some good, as fear of some ill, according to the place and time, where & when it appeareth, since it is said, Fear not the signs of heaven which the Gentiles fear; because the laws of the people are vain. Why then should we stand in fear of those things, which have not in them power, either to do good or harm? Again so far forth as Blazing Stars are natural, it is not to be doubted, but that the appearing of them may portend, and foreshow some good: which is no hard or intricate matter to declare, as well by reason, as also by example.  
For insomuch as blazing-Starres are made of five Planets, as Abienus affirmeth, namely, of Venus, jupiter, Mars, Saturn, & Mercury: and that those blazing stars which are made of Venus and jupiter, are principally the best and luckiest, it cannot otherwise be, but that blazing stars, those specially which have their influence from Venus and jupiter, should sometimes betoken good, and not evermore evil. An example of good credit may that Blazing star be, which when it appeared, was judged so happy and fortunate to the Emperor Caesar Augustus, that then it was begun to be worshipped in the Temple of Rome, and no where also throughout the whole world: because the Emperor beginning those shows & Pageants triumphant: was by the appearing of that star seven days continuance in the Region of heaven, put in hope and expectation afore hand, of exceeding great felicity and happiness to ensue: which undoubtedly he obtained in such sort and manner, that none in regiment was counted happier than happy Augustus, as none was named better than the good Traianus.  
Moreover, upon the appearing of that star, there bred in the minds of the Commonalty an opinion of great reverence, to wit that by the blazing star was signified, the soul of Caesar. to be received to immortality, and to enjoy among the God's abundance of blessedness: than which signification, they believed nothing more joyful or comfortable. So that we see both by reason and example, that their conjecture and opinion doth not always deserve belief, which say: that blazing Stars never appear, but thereafter followeth some mischief and ill. Touching which matter, more might be said to the increase of comfort, and the driving away of despair from the hearts of the people, than we are disposed at this time to call to memory.   

To what Countries, and to what persons blazing stars do principally betoken ill. CHAP. XIII.  
THe question is asked, To what Countries, and to what people specially, blazing stars threaten mischief. Unto which demand doubtless, I might think no certain answer can be made: because all blazing stars are not alike, neither have their generation from one and the self same cause: but some of them are natural, other supernatural, and proceeding from God in the height of the heavens.  
Again, they are without difference, so doubtful in their significations, that Lucanus supposeth their influence to be so general, that the beholders of them, either on Sea or Land, cannot assure themselves of safety: and therefore they are universally to be feared. 
Blazing stars are universally to be feared both on sea and land.   
Unto whose opinion I willingly assent, when blazing stars (supernatural, and proceeding from God) do appear. For this is of a certainty, that it is Gods will, by them to betoken and threaten some ill, to all persons in general, which having offended and done wickedly against the prescript of his holy Law; withdraw not themselves from that puddie of pollution and filthiness, wherein they wallow: but continue a life laden and overcharged with all manner of mischief: whom he of his singular compassion and clemency, would revoke from their sinfulness, by the vision and sight of blazing stars, as it were by horrible threatenings and revokements, that by reforming their abominable lives, they might frame their conversation acceptable in his sight, according to his unspeakable bountifulness, long suffering, and patience, who still looketh for repentance before he taketh vengeance. As may manifestly be gathered, by his dealing with the Hierosolimites, whom he admonisheth of their wickedness, by a most horrible Blazing Star, of a whole years appearing, daily looking when they would be warn, and well appointed with pretence, to prevent Gods sharp punishment.  
But touching natural Blazing Stars, Philosophers and Astronomers have otherwise judged, howbeit, 
Blazing stars nataurall appear at God's appointment.  neither they shall at any time arpeare without the singular sufferance of God, or some notable cause worthy remembrance. For myself, thus I say, that as I am not of belief, that they betoken and prove in working as the Astrologians dream: So I do not utterly condemn such as hold it much material, & greatly to be regarded: toward what part of the world they shoot and cast their beams, from what stars they draw their influences and force: in what similitude and likeness they appear, what colour they carry, at what season of the year they show, in what place, under what ecclestiall signs, and under what Planets aspect. For some there are, which hold this opinion (though grounded upon no kind of reason) that a blazing star, bearing the likeness of a Lute, harp, or semblable instrument, betokeneth somewhat to Musics and Minstrelsy, and to the followers of such vanities. So likewise when they carry this representation or that, to have in their likenesses semblant significations.  
Again, other are of this judgement, that such Blazing-Starres as appear under Saturn, are of a leaden colour: 
The colour of Blazing stars appearing under Planets.  under jupiter white: under Mars, red: under Sol, Golden: under Mercury, light azure: whereupon it is thought no hard matter, to tell what they signify in nature generally. Howbeit, to persons placed in dignity, as to Popes, Cardinals, Bishops, Emperors, Kigns, Luke's and such like as are of place and countenance in the Commonwealth, they foreshow some evil: wherein as I hold it reverence to be silent: so were it overmuch boldness and presumption to be meddling. What therefore may be said in this point, let Astronomers show their cunning.   

How and what way Blazing stars are forewarning of somewhat to come, and of force so to do. CHAP. XIV.  
ALthough it may seem diversely and many ways probable, that blazing-Starres foreshow somewhat to ensue: yet not withstanding it is not necessary, that we should believe (as the Astrologians rashly hold opinion) that they can be signs or tokens of that thing, whereof they are no cause. For a blazing star cannot be either the cause, or the effect of war or death: albeit, it prognosticate and foreshow (as a sign from a natural cause) both the one and the other.  
It may be (I will not deny) the cause after a sort: as if that which is the cause of war and pestilence, we suppose also to be the cause of the blazing star.  

Blazing stars are after a sort the cause of war, pestilence. etc.  As when abundance of vapours are drawn up into the air, which being kindled and set on fire, there followeth and ensueth the generation of a blazing star, and infection of the air, which breedeth plague and pestilence, moving men's minds to mutinies, through the increase and plenty of choler stirred up in them: whereby they run with main force to harness and weapon, and so to battle and bloodshed, not feeling in them any rule of reason, restraining them in this their rashness. Hereupon (as it is not unlike) spring commotions in kingdoms, and mutations of Commonwealths, than destructions: for, A realm divided within itself, being unable long to last, must needs come to loss.  

Blazing stars foretokens of barrenness.  Furthermore, seeing that the generation of a natural Blazing Star, importeth that in some place hath been great heat and drought, (for otherwise such store of matter as is required towards the engendering thereof, could not be drawn up:) it is wont to come to pass, that blazing stars do commonly threaten barrenness to Sandie, and not to Fenny Countries.  
Now, because it is likewise known, that by force of Stars, many envenomed and infectious vapours ascend, 
Blazing stars foretokens of pestilence and mortality.  it seemeth credible that a blazing star is a forewarning of a following pestilence, engendered through the air, being choked and poisoned by vapours of such quality. By which means in like manner, drought setteth men's hearts on fire, and driveth them forward to fall at strife, brawling, battle, and bloodshed: it troubleth the brain, estrangeth the seizes, and thus ariseth seditions. To conclude with the purpose, it is not greatly necessary in this declaration, to use longer delay, since I am of this belief, that God (of the abundance of his love towards us, which is unmeasurable) by nature, as a mean or meet instrument, causeth such and such blazing stars to appear: to the intent, that he might by them (as by premonishments and fore warnings) put us in mend to remember, that it is time to start from sin, and to prepare our hearts with repentance, for preventing of those sharp and smarting whips of God's vengeance, which by such Blazing Stars, at God's commandment, are threatened. For he never or very seldom, since the creaon of the world plagued any people: but he sent among them some sign thereof, for their preparation to penitence, as in holy Scriptures it is at large declared.   

Why Blazing Stars do specially betoken ill to Peers, Potentates, Rulers of Realms and commonwealths, etc. CHAP. XV.  
IT is the opinion of some, though erroneous, that blazing stars do specially betoken ill to Princes and great men, and to their Kingdoms also and Realms threaten some mischief: in such wise, that it hath been observed and marked, that no blazing star almost hath appeared, but either death, or else some ill hath happened after, to some noble parsonage in the land; as by our former examples it is left verified: which made Lucan the Poet to write of them, in this wise: 
A Blazing Star in sight most strange,  
The state of kingdoms, which doth change.   
But it is here demanded, what the cause should be, that Blazing Stars do specially betoken ill to Emperors, Kings, and such like noble personages? I answer, that there is none other cause, as they suppose, 
Why Blazing stars betoken ill to Peers and Potentates: etc.  so far forth as Blazing Stars be natural, then because such great estates and Peers of Realms, living more delicately and untemperately then other: are sooner subject and surprised with corrupt and empoisoned air: and so they carrying close within them, and secretly nourishing the cause of ill in themselves, being unpatient and not able to endure the working of medicinable receipts, quickly perish and miscarry.  
But so far forth as Blazing-Starres are supernatural, and as they have their proceeding and being from the omnipotent God, it is thought this to be the cause: namely, that God is preparing a plague against them, that the black tents of his indignation are pitching, that the weapons of his vengeance are whetted against them, whereof he giveth forewarnings, like a most merciful Father: to the end they might understand, that the cause of this Gods just dealing, (being sin and wickedness,) is either in Princes themselves, or else in the people under their ungracious government: in consideration whereof, as well prince as people might see the horror and abomination of their own sinful lives, and fly to repentance, whereunto God so fatherly would win them by forewarnings. 
The wickedness of the people is imputed to the prince.  That according to the example of that holy King, they may lift up both hearts and hands to heaven, saying: Enough now Lord, stay thy hand, It is I that have offended: it is I that have done wickedly: as for these innocent sheep, what harm have they done? Furthermore, to whom doth a Blazing Star betoken somewhat to follow, if not to the King? For in that it signifieth somewhat to the Realm, it must extend even to the person of the King, who hath the rule and government of that Realm: because he is a King by his Kingdom, and because the wickedness of the kingdom, is reputed the wickedness of the King, who either by his ensample giveth occasion of wickedness: 
A heavy reckoning for such as are in authority and office.  or else having power and authority to suppress sin in the people, neglecteth notwithstanding the due execution and administration of justice: so that the saying of the Apostle is most certain and undoubted: that, All those whom God hath placed in authority, given pre-eminence unto, are tied to the necessity of this heavy reckoning, not only to stand accountable to almighty God for their own, but also for the souls of all such over whom they have charge. And therefore right aptly spoke that most wise and worthy King David to all Kings, (and under their title, to all such as excel other in office & dignity:) And now ye kings (saith he) understand, be ye learned which judge the earth, serve the Lord with fear, etc.  
And thus far touching this matter, which though it be but bluntly and and shortly delivered, yet is it to be marked.   

Of a certain Blazing star which appeared in the year, 1531. the 19 of Sept. at Mentz, a City in Germany, and was sensibly seen likewise in other places. CHAP. XVI.  
A Question is asked, what that Blazing star which was seen in the year 1531. might signify, and to whom it is a foretoken of some evil to ensue. In answering whereunto, I would to God, I might not tell the truth so directly, as I did of an Earthquake 3, years past, the effects whereof, the City of Mentz, not without trembling tasted. The Blazing star which appeared, 1531. betokens a heavy burden of vengeance, not only to the state temporal, but also ecclesiastical: yea it threateneth a plague to the whole world. The fashion and likeness thereof signifieth no less, for it was to see to, in form of a broom, or a bundle of rods: which figure of a rod we doubt, forwarneth us of that rod, whereof the Lord speaketh by the Prophet: I will visit their iniquities with the rod, and their sins with stripes. For Almighty God useth for more certainty of forewarning, to give unto signs and tokens, the likenesses of things signified, and betokened. As for example.  
At what time his will was to forewarn the jews of the Babylonian captivity, he spoke thus to jeremy the Prophet: Make thee fetters and chains, and put them about thy neck, etc. Thereby to signify their captivity. So the same God, gave a sign in the air of Titus and Vespasian; his huge host against jerusalem, to lay it waste: armed men with spears and lances, running to and fro in warlike wise, which though they saw manifestly, yet ceased they not to live as they were wont, most wickedly, the vengeance of God falling upon them, which by those forewarnings was prophesied.  
In the year, 1500, there was seen falling from heaven upon men's garments, Crosses, and there appeared in sensible manner, 
A strange sight and wonderful forewarning of a bloody battle.  as certain signs what should after come to pass: namely, that bloody battle between the two worthy Princes Rupert the 3. son of Philip, Palsegrave of Rhine, and Prince Elector, and the noble Prince Albert, Duke of Bavaria: the ensigns of the one having black crosses, & the other red: so that in the year 1504 was fulfilled that which in the year 1500. was foretold  
Wherefore it is to be feared, lest the Blazing star which was seen in the likeness of a rod, threaten unto us that rod which the Prophet spoke of, wherewith God is purposed in justice to visit the wickedness of the people. For if this Blazing star be natural, we shall perceive nothing in it, which betokeneth not some great evil. 
All mischief cometh from the North.  First, because it blazed so even from the West to the North, from whence (as witnesseth the Prophet) all mischief doth proceed, having nevertheless an aspect into other quarters of the world, terrible & threatening enough.  
It was variable in colour, sometimetimes pale, that is, Leaden and Saturnine, sometimes Red and Martial. Moreover, in so much as it continued (by the averment of Astronomers) under Saturn and Mars, Planets and Signs of unlucky influence: it seemeth to betoken not only unto one, or two Countries, but to the whole World, famine, war, and pestilence: for it blazed most terribly into all parts of the world.  
Furthermore, if the same Blazing star were supernatural, and immediate from God, contrary to the course and order of Nature, it might not otherwise be thought, but that it betokened to the world much misery and woe: for God thereby signified, that his vengeance was to come upon all wicked worldlings, and upon all such persons, as (to their impenitence) join continuance in sin.  
Now, who hath the face to say against this, that the World hath taken such a surfeit in iniquity, and is become so drunken in all abomination, that God's mercy is changed into judgement, & his patience into punishment, his love into wrath, and his kindness into fury: in such wise that it may be supposed, God to speak unto us by this Blazing star, as it were out of a cloud, in this manner: The end of all flesh is before me. The whole earth is filled full of their iniquity, and I will sweep them away from the face of the earth, For they have all played the start backs, they have walked in the by-ways of wickedness, 
A supposed speech of God expressing his wrath conceived for iniquity.  and are become unprofitable: insomuch that there is none that doth good, no not one. Which as none can deny, so I think none dares but thus confess, that the Blazing star seen in our Horizon, betokeneth a common calamity, considering how iniquity doth abound in a places, and that sin is grown to a perfect maturity and ripeness which God of his mercy give us grace to amend, that we feel not the heat of his consuming anger, whereof he hath sent us a forewarning.   

Whether such evils as Blazing stars betoken, may by any means either be prevented or avoided. CHAP. XVII.  
IT remaineth (most puissant Emperor) the premises considered, that your Majesty taking the King of Niniveh for an example, rise up from your seat of Royalty, and putting on sackcloth together with us your people, lift up our hands and hearts to heaven, praying to God most hearty, like humble suitors.  
Now who is so blunt of judgement, and dull of understanding that seeth not that the confession of offences, the repentance and contrition of heart, the humbling and submitting ourselves both in soul and body under the mighty hand of the omnipotent God, will pacify and assuage the fierceness of his fury, and so spare us in compassion, through unfeigned repentance, that we perish not as outcasts from his favour.  
Why should we not have this hope and confidence in God, 
God doth not exclude the penitent from the throne of grace, but receiveth them to his mercy.  considering that to the penitent Ninivites he did not shut the gates of his compassion, but seeing their conversion and forsaking of sin, with the denial of themselves, and all goodness in them, he received them again to mercy, from which by their sins they were before excluded.  
Furthermore, it is not needful that we stand in fear of the celestial Signs, because without God they have no power at all to prevail against any people; but being his servants, are at his commandment, from whom all stars and all creatures have their office and ministry. To conceive terror and fear therefore at the appearing of a Blazing star, as betokening some evil like to follow, it is extreme madness: let us rather tremble at his almightiness, and fear the consuming flames of his justice, who is the Creator and maker, not only of Blazing stars, but also of the Sun, Moon, and Planets, yea of reasonable man.  
And let us not think, but that God, who framed the whole world, the heaven above, and the earth below, is able (as he made them) so to rule them: for at his commandment are all things within the compass of the Heaven, be they Stars, or whatsoever else: so that he can; according to the greatness of his power, which filleth all places, change and dispose them, after his own pleasure: yea the threatening tokens of his judgement and vengeance, will he turn into forbearance and forgiveness, if we penitently neglect not (as did the jews) the time of our Visitation: For they being warned by many wonders, and among others, by a Blazing star, of no less horror than continuance: lay slugging in the Couch of security and carelessness, and not regarding the threats of God for sin, either of wilful blindness, or stout stubbornness, counted those tokens of Gods unsufferable wrath, elementary apparitions, and toys merely contemptible.  
But let us not suffer ourselves to be lulled asleep in the cradle of sensuality: 
It is good to be warned by the example of others.  Let us not be drunken with the dregs of their abomination: Let not the vanities of our own hearts so bewitch us, that we fall into a self love and liking of our own selves, neglecting the preffered time of grace and loving kindness lest God delivering us over to reprobation in his unappeasable displeasure, plague us with the same rod of revengement for our ungraciousness, wherewith he tooks vengeance upon them for their wilful stubbornness. Which that it may not come to pass, let us in time turn to the Lord, and in due season take his fatherly admonitions, as ready means to lead us to repentance and the avoiding of the scourge of destruction, wherewith he punisheth the impenitent. From the which deliver us O Lord God.  
To the Almighty, Everlasting. Invisible, and only wise God, be All, above All, and in All, all Laud, Honour, Glory, Dominion and Majesty for ever and ever, Amen,   
FINIS.