THE Seamen undeceived: OR, Certain Queries to a printed Paper, Entitled, The humble Tender and Declaration of many well-affected Seamen, Commanders of Ships, and Members of Trinity-House, to the Commissioners of the Navy.  
Wherein are may Objections answered, very necessary for public use in these times.  
By R. B. a Seaman, and Member of the Trinity-House.  
Directed to Mariners and Seamen in general, and to all others among whom the  printed Papers have been spread.  
But more especially it is commended to the underwriters of the said Paper.  
Published according to Order.  
Read all or none.  
LONDON, Painted by Matthew Simmons. 1648.   

The Authors Apology to the READER.  
UNTIL this time it hath been ever as far from my thoughts to come forth in Print to public view, as it is for those things of the greatest antipothy to be reconciled to a mutual agreement; Therefore I even wonder my genius should be so metamorphozed, which was occasioned by the coming to my hand of a printed Paper entitled The humble Tender, and Declaration of many well-affected Mariners, and Seamen; Commanders of ships and Members of Trinity house, to the Commissioners of the Navy; which having seriously over looked, I was not a little amazed there at, considering what application might be made thereof by the generality, in these distracted times; And afterwards finding myself not deceived in my expectation, in regard it had such influence upon a great number in City and Country, as to cause them to be possessed with an opinion, and therefore to aver (as to speak truth with some reason, considering the latter clause in the afforesaid printed Paper) that Seamen in general (except a few inconsiderate persons) do justify what those aboard of the revolted ships have done, in refusing to be under the obedience of the two Honourable Houses of Parliament, where upon my thoughts were to have used my interest, that the Subscribres might be called together to have spoken something to them by word of mouth, in a way of persuasion to vindicate themselves in some other printed paper, thereby to undeceive the people: But calling to mind how some dissenting from them in the draft of their paper to which I speak, was hissed at for speaking but reason (as all reasonable men not possessed with a prejudicated opinion against the man must confess) I feared such kind of dealing myself, and therefore desisted from that course; whereupon I was troubled in so much that my thoughts seemed not to be contented, to abide any longer imprisoned where they were conceived: but would violently break forth; so I put pen to paper that I might give them vent, however thought to deal wisely with them, though not to stifle, or destroy them, yet to hid them for my own private use, and did so till some weeks being passed and notice being given me that he that stands in the head of the underwriters was gone aboard the revolted ships; I than thought it my duty to cast in my Mite amongst others, of far better abilities, and although the unfittest and unworthiest of all others (I speak unfeignedly in my own thoughts it is so) yet seeing others silent, from an opinion that it may (by God's blessing) accrue unto others benefit in a way of undeceiving them I thought good to proceed in the work, and not valuing men's censures: but casting myself wholly upon God's Providence, am at length willing it should go abroad to the public view.  
What I have to say it chiefly by way of Quere, upon certain particulars in the above specified printed Paper, wherein I hope I shall not discontent any that semmes to be most concerned therein: but if any be discontented without any just cause given them, I say, as the Proverb hath it honi soit qui mali pense, evil be to him that evil thinks, I think none & therefore have hardly particularised any one man, neither bear I the least private grudge to any one; Nay I think many of the underwriters to be as honest and well-meaning men as myself, and drawn into that business through the deceit, or rather deceitfulness of others, that do make them believe they break not the Covenant, although they express themselves as if they would join with, or at least stand as Newters in reference to what hath been done, or is in agitation to be done by those aboard the revolted ships. My great aim is of this deceit to convince them. In fine God that knows my heart knoweth I desire not Salamander like to be employed in the fire of Contention.  
Thoughts of advancing the public good hath put me upon this work, and therefore I do not fear that I shall be rewarded evil for the good intended hereby. Nay I hope it will be digested (as it was suggested) in much love, that as many of us have done heretofore so hereafter on all occasions we may eat and drink, and walk into the House of God as friends; which shall be the earnest desire and Prayer of  
Your Friend, and Servant to his power Richard Badiley.   

CERTAIN QUERIES to a printed paper entitled the Humble Tender and Declaration of many well-affected Mariners, and Seamen, Commanders of ships, and Members of the Trinity house, to the Commissioners of the Navy.  
Wherein that I may not be misunderstood I shall premise by way of Caution these two ensuing expressions.  
FIRST, that although I do abominate, and detest the actions of those aboard the revolted ships as an unparralled breach of Trust, and therefore judge myself bound by the National Covenant to use my uttermost ability (if I am called to it) to help to reduce them to their former obedience, whether they impede a Personal Treaty or not.  
Yet know I am so far from being against a Personal Treaty with his Majesty (if it be the only remedy to cure our maladies) that I wish it were to night before to morrow morning; For what Christian would desire the wounds of the Kingdom to lie open and not be healed up: But herein we ought to be very cautelous, not as it were forcing the Parliament to it before the foundation of a well grounded peace be laid, lest the remedy prove worse than the disease, & while we seek to evade running a shore upon Scylla, we fall upon Charibdais.  
2. Secondly, that I may not be understood as one that is a Botufeu or kindle fire, and one that in these times of division goes about to make the rent wider, or a person that is a stirrer up and instigater to the shedding of more blood. I say far be it from me so to do, I say, scatter them O Lord that delight in war. Being verily persuaded that as for oaths, so for innocent blood the Land mourneth; the late unseasonableness of the weather seemed to show it. Insurrections and offences have come: but I am afraid woe will be to them that have been the cause thereof; and let me tell you friends if any such thing should fall out hereby, I shall wish my thoughts had proved abortive, and on foresight thereof should presently desist, and say as Naaman to Elisha in another case, so in this thing that I have made such progress, the Lord be merciful unto his servant, and I should proceed no further.  
But my conscience bears me witness, that I am fully persuaded it is the nearest way to peace, and a mutual Agreement between ourselves, to labour to undeceive one another; for now some amongst those that under wrote the printed Paper afore mentioned, maligns and speaks disdainfully of others that dissented from their opinion; I may truly say they know not for what, and peradventure they think in what they do they keep to the Covenant, when every rational man knows they seem to break many Articles thereof, as to instance in that passage of the 6th Article, wherein we promise not to make defection on the contrary part, or give ourselves to a detestable Indifferency, or Neutrality in this cause, which so much concerneth the glory of God, the good of the Kingdoms, and honour of the King. And let me tell you, I hope hereupon those men amongst them who are moderate and have not their spirits greatly embittered, will be ready to say, the truth is, now we see out mistake; and therefore we will apply ourselves to join heart & hand against the Common Enemy, that there be no decay, nor breaking out, nor yet complaining in our streets: but Merchants be encouraged to trade liberally; and ourselves may be freed from those fears, that (if those Revolters be soothed up in their way) will often possess us; as that from their example our own men may turn us a shore, and do what they will with our ships upon every discontent.  
Having thus by way of caution spoken to those two particulars, I shall now proceed to the thing intended, (viz.) to endeavour the undeceiving of the underwriters, and others amongst whom their printed Papers may be spread.  
First, therefore I shall speak a word or two to the occasion of the meeting, which produced the printed paper, and the rather because many of the Subscribers may be ignorant thereof. The Honourable House of Commons made the ensuing votes.  

Die Sabbathi 17. Junij 1648.  
Resolved that as great a Fleet as the Parliament shall think fit, be provided with all expedition, for the safety of the Kingdom and the reducing of the revolters.  
Hen. Elsing. Cler. Parli.   

Die 17. Junij 1648.  
Resolved, That a Letter be written by the Lord high Admiral, to the Trinity House, to employ their best endeavours for the manning the Ships of such a Fleet with cordial and well-affected men.  
Henry Elsing, Cler. Parl.   
Whereupon the right Honourable, the Earl of Warwick, Lord high Admiral, did write to the Master and Wardens of the Trinity House, a Letter, whereof follows the Copy, I hope without offence to any: For without it the error these men run into, could not so clearly appear.  

After my hearty Commendations,  
YOu cannot but take notice of the defection of some Ships of the Fleet, and the great prejudice that may be occasioned thereby to the Trade of the Kingdom, besides the interruption it may give to public settlement, which the Parliament are effectually endeavouring. In order therefore to the safety of the Kingdom, the encouragement and preservation of Trade, and the reducing of such of the Ships as have revolted from their duty: It is now in agitation by the Parliaments direction, That a convenient Fleet be provided and set to Sea: And because nothing is of more importance, than the getting of the said Fleet manned with cordial and well-affected Mariners, I do therefore recommend it to you, (as that, that is of great concernment to the public service,) speedily to employ your best endeavours for getting such mariners to serve in the said Fleet, of whose courage and faithful affection to the Parliament, you shall have very good assurance, and of the proceed to make as speedy return unto me as may be, by your diligent and effectual compliance. And thereby you will not only give a further testimony of your care of the public interest of the Kingdom and of your respect to the Parliament, the House of Commons having by their Order published those votes, a Copy whereof I send you here enclosed; it being resolved that your best endeavours in this behalf be thus desired, I say you will not only answer their expectation thereby: but will also more oblige  
To my very loving Friends the Master, Wardens, and the Assistants of the Trinity house. Your very assured loving brother and friend, Warwick.   
Whereupon the younger brothers (it seems) were ordered to be called to a meeting at the Trinity house, which leads me to the first Quere.  
Quaere 1. Whether you think it were sit, or justifiable that some Members of the Corporation should be called, and others left out (who will think otherwise but to carry on the design intended the more smoothly) and in their rooms those (not members of the Corporation should be warned to appear) and some of them invited to procure all the friends they could, that would be for a Personal Treaty? Now if this be not contrary to reason and the Covenant which in one Article tells us, we ought not to make factions or Parties amongst the people, let the world be judge.  
But herein I would not be understood, as if I meant the Worshipful the Mr. Wardens and Assistants of the said Trinity house were  herein, No; I am persuaded better things of them: But I doubt not but their Officers are to blame therein, who (if reports belies them not) some of them are very fit for such a purpose.  
1 Object. But it may be said, the Officers were ordered to call all Seamen, or as many as could be got, as well not Members of the Co poration as thos● that were.  
Answ. But why were not all the Members first called, as is usually done in and among all Companies, and Corporations in such cases.  
Quere 2. Secondly, Whether at such a meeting upon such an occasion, (where every one should have free liberty to speak his mind) it can with the least colour be justifiable, that when a Personal Treaty was propounded, and one replied saying (under favour) it is not the business of the day, we are called to answer my Lord Admiral's Letter; let us therefore do that. (A very reasonable request) yet that this man should be hist at by many, Nay, that some should take the boldness to say it were a good turn to thrust him and some others out of doors that dissented from them, or that some should add and say, they that are in the revolted ships were as honest as those that were there; with what reason such things should pass unreprovable it seems to me very strange.  
And now to the printed Paper itself, it having for its frontispeice, or title; The humble tender and Declaration of many well-affected Mariners etc. which leads me to the next Quere.  
Quaere 3. Thirdly, Whether men that are rational and no way biased, will not (at least till you show, you do abominate the act of the Revolters, and will endeavour their reducement) judge you well-affected to the Parliaments proceed the contrary way, especially if they look back to the occasion of your meeting, and how you rallied about from the thing that was propounded or desired in the Letter, to have a Petition drawn for a Personal Treaty at that time, and compare that with the carrige of some at the time of the meeting, which is above mentioned; and withal shall consider the latter part of the Declaration itself.  
The next thing we come to is the Declaration itself, which hath this first expression, you desire a petition may be drawn in the behalf of Seamen and Mariners.  
Quaere 4. Whether it had not been more fair to have desired it might rather be drawn in the behalf of many, or some Seamen and Mariners, especially since you might perceive that at that time many were not of your mind, and many more might be found that were not of your opinion, as now more clearly appears; for that above half a hundred that are and have been Commanders of ships & Barks, equallizing as many of you in experience, have lately declared they do abominate that unparallelled breach of Trust the Revolters are guilty of; and they will use their utmost endeavour to reduce them, whether there be a Personal Treaty or not.  
2 Obj. But it may be you will object, would it not have been more justifiable to have been noted in your memoandum at the bottom of your late Petition, & have said there were so many Commanders of ships, and so many of them Members of the house: but to say fifty two of those were Commanders of ships and Members of the Trinity house is not fair, when it's clearly known not half of them were Members of that Society, and some were only Masters of Barks, and small Vessels.  
Answ. To this I answer, there was some error in the printing because some few amongst the fifty two were Masters of such small vessels as you speak on, therefore in the Original it is only (note that fifty two of these are Commanders, without these words, Of Ships. And then in the next place it's confessed, many of them were not members of the Trinity House; and truth is, I was deceived, the Memorandum should have noted, that some or many of them were members of the Trinity House, being of that mind, we should not do the least evil, that the greatest good might come thereby. Yet in that some of these were members of the Trinity house, it's justifiable by the example of the under writers of the printed paper I am now speaking to, because their Memorandum is, that we must note the subscribers thereof were Commanders of Ships, members of the Trinity House, and dwelling in and about London; when it is clearly known, some many of them were not Commanders of Ships, nor Members of the Trinitie-House: and some of them, as I am informed, did not dwell in and about London. And now we come to the thing petitioned for, a personal Treaty.  
Quere 5. Whether moderate men will not judge it had been much better to have added to your request for a personal treaty; provided there be care taken that such a foundation of security be laid, as may keep yourselves, and those that have adhered to you, from destruction; the rather, because they could not but hear that both houses of Parliament had voted a treaty with his Majesty before, & had answered the Essex men, that they had the business of settling the kingdom, under consideration, and they would make a progress therein with all the convenient speed that might be.  
Now the next thing I come unto, is this expression, And it is humbly conceived by us, that we are obliged and bound thereto according to the Protestation, and solemn League and Covenant formerly taken by us to maintain and defend with our lives, powers and estates, the true reformed Protestant Religion, his Majesty's Royal person, honour and estate, and also the power & privileges of Parliament, etc. Doubtless the words are good: But oh that there were in us a heart to performe them.  
Quere 6. Whether men that compare the aforementioned passage with what follows, will not be ready to say, These Men speak good words, but they seem to mean nothing less. Nay, will not many be ready to say, These men speak good words, but they seem to mean nothing less. Nay, will not many be ready to say, This phrase is only to make the paper seem the more plausible, (as Pragmaticus and Elencticus so much brag of in their Pamphlets, God forbidden them that know the underwriters should think so of most of them. But if any such were, let me say to them as Jacob by his sons Simeon and Levi, 
Gen. ●.  My soul come not into their secret, my glory be not joined to their Assembly.  
Object. 3. But you will say, we did not only seem, but we meant really to keep to the Covenant.  
Answ. Indifferent men will tell you, your expressions show, you make as wrong an interpretation of the Covenant, as possible can be. Do not your words seem to declare as much, the Parliament ordered you should be called to give your best assistance that faithful men may be provided to man the Ships that are to reduce the Revolters: You answer, Yea, if they, viz. the Revolters, shall impede the thing ●ou desire. Now tell me, Is not that expression as much as to say, You will either be Newters, or else join with their enemies, the worst of which are Revolters: And doth not so doing cross the end of the Covenant, which was made to the end that men might have some weight upon their consciences, to keep them from revolting from the Parliaments of England and Scotland, and from joining with, or newtralizing with Revolters in this common cause, which so much concerns God's glory and the public good. Is there not an expression telling, that neither directly nor indirectly, we are to make defection to the contrary part, or give ourselves to a detestable indifferency, or new trality in this cause, which so much concerns God's glory by advancing Reformation in Religion, and uniting the Kingdoms of England, Scotland, etc. And do you think these Revolters are more likely to advance the one, or endeavour the other, than were the Earl of Marlbrough his Forces by Sea, or the Earl of Newcastles heretofore by land. About which work of Reformation, (while we are speaking) give me leave (as I go along) a little to expostulate with you; Either it is the truth we should contend for, or not. That we should not, I tbink no Christian that hath taken the Covenant will affirm: If we should, especially (since it hath cost so much treasure and blood to purchase in any measure) shall we now be so far from being valiant for the truth upon earth, that we shall sell it for very trivials; or as the Gadarens dealt with our Saviour, shall we banish it, preferring our worldly lusts and earthly enjoyments before it? At this passage it may be some will be ready to say, He begins to make a preachment. However, before I pass from this passage in reference to the Covenant, I must make a further digression to express my thoughts about it.  
First, that although I myself have taken the Covenant, and intent as God shall enable me, to keep close to it in the sense it was expounded to me when I took it: and although it be fare from my thoughts to discourage any from taking it, yet seeing it is made such a nose of Wax of, and so many turn it about to their several interests, leaving the right rule it should be expounded by, I hearty wish, care may be taken, that men put in Offices, and places of Trust, may be judged fit and faithful by some other way and principles, then by their mere taking the Covenant, lest some men of selfish and corrupt minds (after the example of these Revolters in the Ships) should for by respects, betray their Trust, and so open a way either for the ruin of the Parliament, and those that have adhered faithfully to them all along; or, which is worse (if worse may be) like those that are bought and sold as sheep, they and we should be led to the slaughter before we know who hurts us.  
But now to return again to the printed paper, having toward the later end this passage, And if they shall impede a personal treaty; then with our lives and fortunes we will endeavour to reduce them.  
Quere. 7. The Quere then is, Whether the well-affected (amongst which they profess themselves that framed the paper) will not think by that clause, you put a mere mock upon the Parliament: For who knows not but the Ships revolted appear as those that would join with the County of Kent, one part of whose desire, or pretence, was expressed to be for a personal treaty. And if so, what rational man can think it's likely, or with the least colour probable, they should go to the Isle of Wight, to impede his Majesty's passage over towards a personal treaty, or otherwise, some think such a kind of impeding you mean. But if it were not intended as a mock, as I think verily it was not, will not such men (especially they that know what influence it had upon many men in the Countries) conclude it a piece which hath much wounded the Parliaments cause, insomuch as they may say by you, as in another case Caesar said in the Senate House; What, you my son Brutus: What, and you against me also? What, you Mariners and Seamen, for whom we have done such things, what you also against us? You cannot be ignorant, that whereas in former times the ordering of the Navy, and the command at sea, was usually put into the hands of Gentlemen that were Land-men, yet since our fitting (under King and Parliament) men of your own coat have been placed at the Stern to manage the maritine affairs of the Kingdom, and what else chief concerns the Navy: insomuch that Masters of Merchantmen, being employed in the service, have usually now the command of their own ships, not common before. And for their better encouragement in those & the other ships, there is larger allowance for wages given to the Mariners, than was given heretofore; and that wages from time to time punctually paid them, a privilege above all others employed in public affairs: and do you thus requite us? I beseech you therefore acknowledge your mistake, or express yourselves what you fully meant in time, lest great provocations make great alterations.  
But again, looking among the Names, I cannot but discern that many amongst them have been in the service of the King and Parliament, which makes me premise another Quere.  
Quere 6. Whether indifferent men will not be ready to judge, (although I do not think so of many of you) you acted against the king's forces for by respects, as to gain, wealth, honour, or for some such sinister end: and now that the Kingdom hath more immediate need of you in their low estate; now you leave them, and either side with, or at least (by your paper) seem to connive with them that are revolted from their obedience; and if you were upright at your engagement, and not biased with by-ends, why then keep you not to your integrity while you die?  
I appeal to you all that were the subscribers: Will it not be of ill consequence, that it should be told abroad, and published among the Heathen, among the Turks, Jews, Armenians, and those other Nations, Italians, Spaniards and French, that use to honour us in that as they have trusted their persons and estates with us, so we have carried them up and down, and never betrayed our Trust. I say again, when it shall be said, we join with, or at least connive at those that have not broken their trust with Heathens, but with their own Nation, the Representatives of their own Kingdom, etc.  
Object. But you may say, We see many are seeming to ingratiate themselves into the King's favour, that they may save their estates, and gain his good esteem, and why should not we, some of us being those that went up with our Boats to Westminster, and thereby gave him such great distaste.  

As in Mr. Calamies speech at Guildhall.  I answer, An unjust way of doing that which otherwise may lawfully be done, is not the way to have an estate: For God may so order it, that though you be thought no Roundheads, yet your goods may: your goods may be Gybalins though you be Gwelfes, as the story is.  
To conclude, I will not take upon me to obtest you, but I entreat and earnestly desire you, by your oath and covenant, and by all the good that the Parliament hath done for you, that you side not with the Revolters, or give yourselves to a detestable Indifferency or Neutrality in this cause, which so much concerns God's glory, and the Kingdoms good: But in time show that you abominate that unparallelled breach of trust by joining with others, and that freely to reduce the aforesaid ships to their former obedience.  
Object. But some may object, If we be faulty, or blame-worthy, could you not tell us of it between you and us, or some other way; and have not you your faults as well as others? Would you have them written upon your forehead, & published to all the world in print, as you do by ours, setting it home with a kind of violence.  
The answer is in two parts, First, when I declare them in that kind, to inlect or harden any others in a way that is not good, do it with a very good will, it shall be such a kindness to me, that shall not break my head, no nor my sleep neither in the least (if I know my own heart.  
Secondly, had not the blow of your Declaration sounded fare and near, this Echo, or Countermand had not sounded so loud: For than I should have lost the golden Rule, Do as you would be done by: Or that Rule, Tell thy brother his fault first between him and thee.  
Obj. But it's like some may object, It's a bad bird will foul his own nest.  
Answ. I appeal unto all  men in the world, whether it tends not rather to cleanse it, when it shall be said at a great and general meeting in London: Seamen without exception are perfidious, so that there is no trust in them. And worse words also, if I am not misinformed.  
Obj. But (peradventure) some may yet object, Now you have said all you can, we do not judge that those aboard the revolted ships, have betrayed their trust, because they engaged upon such terms as are expressed in the Covenant. And that it may appear so, wherefore else were they called to take it, but as an argument to prove that they were fit men for the service and employment. Now if it appears they wheeled about on purpose to maintain the Covenant, or some chief branch of it, as that wherein we oblige ourselves to preserve the King's Majesty's person, honour and authority, that the world may bear witness (with our consciences) of our loyalty, etc. And this they do out of conscience, in that they see this clause so much slighted amongst those that should see it performed, as well as any of the other parts of the Covenant.  
Ans. 1. I wish from my heart, some further endeavours had been used to have settled his Majesty and this Kingdom in their just Rights and Privileges. For no doubt the one with the other aught to be equally endeavoured, or at least that some further reasons might have been given of the obstruction, that (if possibly it could have been prevented) there might not have been so much effusion of blood, as now is like to be. Yea, suppose I join issue with you, and confess, that the Honourable Houses of Parliament (on whose part these matters chief lie upon) have not taken those opportunities that (by God's providence) have been put into their hands, to redress a great part of those grievances which is the cause of so much complaint at this time; yet notwithstanding Revolters, nor their Abettors, are any thing to be excused from being guilty of betraying their trust, since out of tenderness of conscience to keep that particular Article above mentioned, they did not first acquaint the Parliament (by whom they were entrusted) of their intention to desist from their service upon that ground, & were ready to deliver back the ships into the hands of those they should send aboard them to look after them. But now to deny the Lord high Admiral & others admission, which were desired to go down to take charge thereof, and without order to go out of the Kingdom with the ships, upon any pretence whatsoever, it is a betraying of their trust; insomuch that I may appeal to all reasonable men, whether it may not be judged one of the greatest wounds that ever the Protestant Religion did receive, in regard that whereas the History tells us, some of the late Kings of France, (though Roman Catholics themselves) have above all others employed Protestants, such as were of the Scottish Nation, to be of their Lifeguard, and otherwise in places of trust near their person, upon this account, that whereas the Papists hold it no sin, upon some occasion privately to destroy and make away Kings themselves: yet the principles the Protestants held, were in no case to betray their trust. Now then in regard of this revolt that I have been chief discoursing of, how for ever are their mouths stopped in justifying and honouring of us for that particular principle of Religion, especially if we shall go on saying, A confederacy with them that have made a confederacy in that kind.  
Secondly, to make a fuller answer to that objection, that (if possibly) those may be undeceived that think in what the Revolters and their Abettors have done, and do, yet they cannot be reckoned among Covenant-breakers (I care not who knoweth it) I never took pleasure in, or any way cared for tautologies, amongst which some may say the ensuing passage may be termed, having spoken to the Covenant before: however, as the proverb hath it, Necessity hath no law, therefore I must crave excuse herein, and so proceed.  
Can conscience of covenant keeping argue for covenant breaking? or can religion be pleaded for keeping one Article of the Covenant by breaking another? Or is the Covenant against itself, that he that resolves to keep it must resolve to break it. As Divines tell us that exposition concerning one particular place of Scripture that crosseth the end & scope of the whole, is wrong construction. And so for the Covenant, it is not to be observed in a divided sense, that is, we are not to observe one part of the covenant apart from the rest. For every particular Article hath such dependence upon the other, that it cannot be separated; so that if you plead no breach of covenant, because (as you say) you do no other than what you are bound to by the third Article: yet that plea is not sufficient, because that Article is not to be kept by itself, but as it stands in conjunction with the rest. Besides, in that very Article there is conjoined so fare, The Rights and Privileges of the Parliament, and the Liberties of the Kingdoms, together with the preservation of the King's Majesty's Person and Authority, that if you part them, & go to work as the Revolters have done, you proceed directly against that very Article, and (I may boldly say) break the whole Covenant. For was not the Covenant made (as I have hinted it before, to detect the Parliaments enemies, and unite their friends, was not the main end of the Covenant (so far as it was civil) to join us together by a solemn bond, with hands lifted up to the most high God, though not to be against the King's Majesty in the preservation of the true religion, and the liberties of the Kingdom, yet to be against him and his party, as fight to destroy the kingdom. With what face then can men plead the Covenant in revolting from the Parliament and their party, to join with the King's party? Was it not a trick of Judas to betray Christ with a kiss, and shows of love? And do not men deal so by the Covenant, destroying the very life and spirit of it, under a pretence of conscience to keep it? Doth the Covenant bind us to Judas it by delivering up the Kingdom's interest residing in the Parliament, into the hands of the sons of violence, that seek to apprehend and destroy it by several insurrections with swords and staves? Doth the Covenant bind us to join with those that do not only hate it, but them that have taken it, and for no other cause but their faithfulness in so doing. To pretend covenant in joining with a known common enemy against the Parliament and their party; what is it but with Baalack and Baalam to pretenc sacrificing with a Royal design to curse Israel? Are we not bound by the covenant to bring delinquents to condign punishment, and shall we join with them, and plead covenant? In fine, if I see any thing between light and darkness, these kind of men and their abettors, be they what they will, whether in England or Scotland, or whether in City or Country (and put in the Army too if you please) (having lifted up their hands to the high God to keep the Covenant) they have falsified their oath, and so without repentance make themselves liable to those fearful judgements, threatened by the word of the Lord against covenant-breakers, as Master John Vicars worthily sets down about the Covenant.  

Note.  I would not be understood as if I would have no kind of compliance with such as have been Delinquents, and termed Malignants; I clearly give up my opinion, that many that were accounted such, were and are men of excellent natural abilities, and otherwise, very useful in the Commonwealth, and therefore showing how they have been led into a snare by the deceitfulness of others, or having paid their compositions desiring to sit down and live peaceably and quietly by their neighbours in the Commonwealth God forbidden we should heave dirt in their faces, by giving them any provoking terms, nay rather should we not more and more convince them, by showing of love and respect to them, giving them to see we desire peace by all means, It's those that do endeavour to raise and maintain a new war, with whom (I say) we ought not to have any compliance, for they being such by whom God hath suffered once again the sword to be drawn; The sword the sword, the sword of the Lord of Hosts; the bright glittering, or as the Prophet Ezekiel hath it, The well furbished sword, threatening to eat yet more flesh, and drink yet more blood. Lest we a nong them may in all likelihood fall into the pit they have digged for others, & with them drink of the same cup, yea (it may be) the dregs of it, which they have provided for the innocent, those against whom the points of their swords and instruments of war are set, and they are ready to shoot at, and truly that is (if I am not deceived) at the upright of heart.  
Object. But peradventure some may further say, suppose his Majesty is, and hath been willing to grant whatsoever shall be conducing to the settling of the true Reformed Religion, the Liberty of the Subject, and Privileges of Parliament; and yet hath not been harkened unto by those whom it chief concerneth: But have (as you did seem to confess) slipped their opportunities. Then have we not reason to be against them, and not be accounted Covenant breakers?  
Answ. First, If that were proved which you instance in your Objection, than you may be the more excusable: but who shall be Judge therein, was not the Parliament called together by his Majesty's Writ to consult of the great and weighty affairs of the Kingdom. And afterwards had they not liberty by Act of Parliament to sit whilst these things afore-named were settled to their minds, that they themselves should think it fit to dissolve; Again, did not we by a free Election choose out Burgesses? to see that security might be given, (if possible) that Reformation of Religion, the Liberty of the Subject, and consequently the Privileges of Parliament might be settled and confirmed, that so our peace might be established as the Sea, and our righteousness might flow in as a mighty stream; Now then, either we did choose them such men as Jethro counselled Moses to choose. Able men, such as feared God, men of truth, hating covetousness; or we did not, if such men were chosen, I doubt not but you will confess they are fit to judge when security is given for what is above mentioned than we are; and if the men chosen were not such men as I have herein expressed; I think the fault doth lie upon those that did not look better and more norrowly to it at their choice, and then we must have patience, or by way of humble Remonstrance we may acquaint them with our greivances, and Petition for redress: But to precipitate their Counsels, and to endeavour to destroy them and their friends, upon any pretence whatsoever; I conceive (with humble submission to better judgements) is a very great breach of Covenant.  
2. Yet further, to Answer you more fully, you say, the Parliament have (as I seem to confess the same) slipped some opportunities in which some further endeavours might have been used, to have prevailed with his Majesty for a safe and well grounded peace, or at least to have showed some further reason of the obstruction, that if possible some of the damage that is now like to fall upon the Kingdom by this new war, might have been evaded.  
Answ. Though I wish something to the purpose you do here express, yet I do not positively affirm they have lost any opportunity for accomplishing of the aforenamed ends, because they see what we do not see, and know what we are not made acquainted withal: But suppose I again join issue with you, and fully confess what you may say, I seem to do, yet if it appear an opportunity hath been lost out of no by-end, or for no sinister respect, nor yet through wilful neglect: but from a jealousy or fear, lest they might go as well to fast as to slow, the face of things looking as they did at that time, and I add, if it appear they used their best endeavours that all interests might be justly settled, and the Kingdom fully satisfied by their waiting a little longer; if now the event hath not fallen ●ut according to their expectation, and the Kingdom's desire: Shall we go about therefore to destroy them and their Friends? 
Simile.  God forbidden, Give me leave to make one similitude, I shall leave the application thereof to yourselves; Have not some of us that have been entrusted with Ships and other men's Interests, to ploy a Voyage sometime, have we not lost an opportunity by which the proprietors have suffered much damage, yet it not being wilfully done by us, (we being as willing to be doing for accomplishment of their desire as they themselves could be) however the weather looking untowardly we have waited a little as loath to proceed, lest we should hazard all we have been trusted with, but in process of time it proved, by not taking the opportunity, through our timorousness our friends have suffered loss, however having done for the best; would we think it justice, reason, or conscience, that our Employers should seek to destroy us upon that ground? If they should some of the Heathen would condemn them (for amongst which) the story tells us, That some of their Emperors have called their Commanders sent by them into the Wars, to give account of their actions, and upon hearing every one's reason for what passed, and was done by them whilst they were abroad, seriously weighing each man's saying for all their transactions: have in their wisdom bestowed as much honour, or more upon them which have lost strong Holds, and caused them to be much damnified, as upon those that have gained Cities and strong holds, and greatly advanced them, being not able to give such good reasons of their proceed, as them by whom they had suffered the greatest damage, I speak as to wise men that may know my meaning, and if so, what I have to say is, Do as ye would be done by.  
Obj. 8. Yet again it may be some will further object While you have been labouring to convince others wherein they break their Oath and Covenant, yet you seem to have no respect to your own oath, which was taken by you at your admittance into the Corporation, or Brotherhood of the Trinity House. And besides, would you not have a reformation in officers that are to be entrusted in the public affairs, that yourself may be preferred therein.  
The answer is in two parts, as is the objection: but first, by way of introduction, Are we not fallen into such an age wherein it is so usual for one man to asperse and raise false reports of another, that it would be no wonder if I be also (among other fare better than myself) falsely accused: I appeal to you, though yet we are not living at such a time, wherein its men's ordinary and common practice to deal one with another as Jesabel did by Naboth, that is, 
1 Kings 21.10.  subornefalse witnesses against each other, saying, This man blasphemes God and the King, let him die: yet is it not ordinary to accuse one another as her husband Naboth did Eliajah, 
1 King. 18.17.  saying, Are not thou he that is the troubler of Israel? Or thus, Is it not you, and such as you are, that trouble the kingdom? Were it not for you, we might be at peace and quiet; Dealing with honest men therein just as you may sometimes observe pick-pockets do, who having cut a purse, will with the first, be ready to lay hold of an innocent man, crying out, This is the man, this is the man, when God and their own consciences know they themselves are guilty of the fact. Where is the well and Fountain head from whence the late revoltings and insurrections came? Do you not think it's among such men as are very active in charging others to be the troublers of the kingdom? I doubt not but some among us run to the name of the Lord as to a strong tower of refuge: but how common is i● now grown for men to run to lies for refuge, yea and to be strengthened the better to carry on their designs. To instance in one or two particulars among many hundreds, or many thousands, I fear: A little before, or just upon the revolt of the ships, a report must be raised, that Col. Rainsborough should (without the order of the Parliament) impose a new oath upon those that passed through the Downs; and to this purpose, to make it the more credited, some declare up and down, they have seen letters, wherein Mr. James Goody writes as much, (and withal how the Admiral got an anchor aboard, and heft a peek with the other. And in fine, would have fired upon him, but that his men denied it, and all because he refused the new oath. Much longer is the story of the particulars of that business (which if there be truth in men, the Mastee, and others that were aboard the Admiral) affirm is a long L— y. Another he raises a report upon the rising in Kent, that he saw certain Ferkins of Silver, (which were generally said to be Parliament mens) that were taken out of a Frigate at Dedford, I hope no truer than that report of a Bull turned out of Colchester with Flax fired upon the back of it; or the report of him that said he saw Colonel Cromwell interred in Gloucester: Nay, I believe these reports were only raised, that when the insurrections intended were brought about and accomplished, then honest men should have their mouths stopped, as not being able justly to vindicate either the Parliament or any of their Ministers in Office. But yet give me leave here also to express my hearty wishes, which are, that the Honourable Court of Parliament would think of some way wherein it may be declared, and clearly showed to the people, how none of them hath hitherto, nor never will employ any of the public treasury of the Kingdom, to their own private uses, except what part thereof they may justly challenge as their due. I think I may be very confident in affirming; that if Parliament men were now and then in such companies as we meet with, and did there hear what we do; for want of this thing, they would with indignation cast off those reproaches, and with that good Judge Samuel, would vindicate themselves, saying, Whom have we wronged? and where is the man that can prove we have employed the public interest to our private ends, and it shall be restored three or seven fold? I profess, for want of something done herein, oftentimes their best friends are at a stand, not having a word to say in their behalf. But if yet we want of our expectation herein, is it not for  stating our grievance by way of remonstrance and humble petition to have our grievances removed, then by making insurrections and tumults, whereby innocent blood oft falls to the ground. Pardon the digression, it being done purposely that one noble Gentleman or other belonging to that House, casting his eye hereon, may acquaint others thereof, that in time it may be of some use in causing the work to be set forward.  
I shall now give you answer to the objection: The scope of our oath is, that we should do nothing to the prejudice of the Corporation, nor against the government thereof; wherefore let what is here done, be carried to the balance, and weighed. As to the matter of partiality, in calling some, and not other of the members to the meeting, I clear the Society thereof it so far, as that I tell you, herein I am persuaded better things of them, than so to order it.  
And then as to the other matter, indeed some may take exception, and pick a quarrel with me, in that speaking of the incivility of some, I seem to charge them with not reproving thereof. To which I answer, I mean not the Court) in that passage, it being spoken out of their hearing; but I wonder such passages should be unreprovable from some others that stood by when they were spoken. And as to the rest of the particulars, to which I speak, they were met withal without doors, having to do only with one elder brother, and nothing near the one half of the younger brothers, or the rest of that Society: and if this be contrary to my oath, I am yet to distinguish between light and darkness: Yet further (by what I have heard) the Court or the most of the elder brothers did not own the paper, and I hope never will, that nor any thing else that may cause the to be mistrusted: as those that would seem to stand as newters. And while I am mentioning those aged or Elder ones, Solomon's passage comes to my mind, 
Prov. 16.3.  The hoary head is a crown of glory if it be found in a way of righteousness. Then God forbidden those should be found out of that way in a way that inclines to detestable neutrality in this cause, which by lifting up their hands to God, they have acknowledged so much concerns his glory.  
Question 1. But some may ask, Is not the case altered?  
Answ. Yes somewhat, in regard that whereas heretofore the Earl of Mrrlbrough was seeking to destroy us by Sea, and the Lord Hopton and Culpepper the Kingdom by land: now it is reported that the Earl of Marlbrough is about the same work by Land, and the Lord Hopton and his Company is upon the same design by Sea: So the case is altered, but the cause is the same.  
Quest. 2. But now those pretend to be for a personal treaty, and so for peace.  
Answ. Oh that there were in them such a disposition! As we use to say, there is a great deal of difference between saying and doing, or between pretending to do a thing, and doing it really. We know Ehud pretended fair to King Eglon, till he had his opportunity, and then he thrust the Dagger to his heart. To come a little nearer, even to some of the aforenamed persons: We know, or at least may know, the Earl of Marlbrough came towards the ship Merchant Bonaventure (as if he were for peace, with the Banner of St. George in his Main Top, even till the Master of the other ship was provided to drink to him: But when the Earl thought he could make sure prize of him, he then changed his Banner, and like a Bear rob of her Whelps, tears the ship both with great Guns and small, and thereby the poor man, that thought his pretending and doing would be alike, lost not only his own life, but some other men lost their lives also.  
Again, did not the Lord Goring and his Company at the entry into Colchester, pretend a great deal of good will to the inhabitants? But now how many of them cry out, Our Houses are burnt, and otherwise our wrongs by them have been so exceeding great, that we may bewail ourselves, as Jeremy in his Lamentations, 
Lam. 1. 1●.  Is it nothing to you, all you that pass by? Behold and see, Is there any sorrow like unto our sorrow? and all because 〈◊〉 were caught with the fair pretences of that party, and did not join heart & hand to keep out the common enemy. And to come a little nearer, Do not some of them that went down into the Downs, with confidence that if they met with the revolted Ships, they should suffer nothing by them, now advise their friends, how that their ammunition and provision is taken away; so that their voyages at least are overthrown, and they fear all will be lost. If yet men's eyes be not opened to see, it is high time to be stir themselves. I would sound an alarm to my friends of the Navigation; but because I would not be too tedious, consider some of the Heads of what I would speak to, in case we now sit still, is is not like to be of very ill consequence?  
As first, Will not those Merchants, in whose employment (under God we have gained something, be ready to charge us with extreme ingratitude, that now their goods are already taken by the Revolters, and are like more and more so to be, and they have no way to have it helped, but by our endeavours to redeem the prey out of their hands that have taken it, and remedy the like for the future. I say, if now we should sit still, like those that owed them no kind of service, appearing like them that cared not for their destruction, but laughed when the fears of their losses came upon them. I appeal to you, will they not do as abovesaid?  
Object. 9 Some Merchants are so far from encouraging us to go against the revolted ships, that it is expressed often by them, they hope Seamen have more wit then to fight one against another.  
Answ. No man would willingly fight and shed blood, if any fairer means would serve turn, (as Indemnity, and the like) but if no such means will do, another course must be taken, and I warrant you when such men feel the smart, received by their losses, & you get their estates redeemed out of the hands of those aboard the revolted Ships, than they will be so fare from saying you have done ill, that contrarily they will say you are, and think you to be the bravest men in the world.  
But secondly, if we act not to clear the way for our shipping to pass to and from the Sea without surprisal, it will necessarily follow, the Merchants will ship off no goods, and consequently the shipping (wherein the Seamen are not a little concerned) must as we use use to say) lie by the walls, and in their rooms strangers be frhaigted to carry Merchant's goods from the vintage to the West of England; whereby it's like London will be served over land, although to their great cost: and then how many other are the inconveniences that will follow thereupon? I shall name only three.  
The Clothiers, and many others that use to vent their wares at London to Merchants for transportation beyond the Seas, must desist, and consequently the multitudes of poor employed that way, will cry out against those that have been the Obstructors of the Trade.  
2. Again, will not the Manual Craftsmen about London, and the poor under them, groan for want of employment, when shipping shall not go to and again, as usually, and lament of those that are the cause thereof.  
3. Will not ordinary Mariners, that by consequence must want employment, and they being not usualy so provident as others, to lay up against such a time of necessity, run to other parts and places of the Kingdom to look employment; or, which is worse, unto other Countries, leaving their poor Families to cry out under wants, against them that have been the cause of this great stop of trade, and we know that here yes of the poor and needy come up into the ears of the Lord of Hosts. 
Psal. 12.5.  Oh then let us not be counted the cause of these evils, but in time let us bestir ourselves in a way of endeavouring the reducing of the revolters, before it be too late: and if men will yet be obstinate, give me leave to tell you what I think of, 
Esth. 4.14.  If we be altogether silent, or Newters at this time, even Mordecai's answer to Esther, Think not you shall escape in the King's house, or if you will under a pretence you are for the King's cause, God will cause enlargement and deliverance to come some other way.  
Quest. But how is it likely? Answ. I cannot very well tell: But me thinks God that hath done so much for his people as he hath done of late for us, will yet do more (although by very despicable means) how ever our sins may be the cause, our hope of outward prosperity may be diverted: And although I & thousands of other men perish, however the Lord will carry on his own work. Believe me friends, God will not answer the wishes of Mercurius Aulicus in his pamphlet this week, no he will not stand as Neuter in these differences. Which passage while I am mentioning, me thinks many of the very Heathens would be ashamed of such an expression, I pray God lay it no● to our charge that in a Christian City, where there are so many differing in judgement, one speaking against 〈◊〉 Fresbyterians, and another speaking against those they call Independents; 
Psal. 50. ●  and it's feared most speak against both: yet it's thought many speak not against this kind of blasphemy, or these kind of blasphemers, of which saith psalmist, And because God keeps silence, they think he is altogether such a one as themselves: but if men will reprove them, and set their faults in order before their eyes, etc. All such would do well to read the next words.  
Yet before I pass along (friends) mark, they wish God may stand as Neuter, by which expression they acknowledge God is against them. 
job. 9.4.  O then what mad men are these to go on in such a way? us Job saith, Who ever hardened himself against God and prospered?  
I am come now to answer the second part of the objection, in these words: You desire a reformation in Officers to be put in trust, that yourself may have some preferment therein.  
Answ. Is this a course to obtain such an end? Should a man run to the fire to be quenched, or run into a hedge of thorns to find a better way? Again, did you never hear how he that speaketh the truth from his heart, makes himself but a prey. Me thinks common Reason should teach men that in these times wherein the reins of government are so far let lose, that hardly any thing done or said will please men, men should be so far from having such thoughts of others (especially if they have any calling or way to live and employ themselves in) that contrarily they should think all would make excuse one after another, What shall I leave my Calling wherein I have liberty to honour God, and serve men, and go & be promoted over others at such a time? But for further answer, I shall say no more than what is expressed in my Apology to the Reader. For if a man should make all the asseverations and protestations in the world, some would hardly believe him, the disease is so Epidemical for men to look after honour and great things in the world, that not only Mucknall, for whom the East India Company had done so well for, appears guilty thereof: But it is feared others that the Parliament of England hath advanced, are likewise troubled with the same malady. For the clearing of which, I wish they had sounded in their ears, or rather into their hearts and consciences, some of the deceased Mr. Burtons' observations upon Solomon's words: 
Prov.  My son, fear thou the Lord and the King, and meddle not with them that are given to change: for their calamity shall rise suddenly, and who knoweth the ruin of them both? Though this place seems at first glance to make for them, they would then be convinced their going to the other side, contrary to covenant, were as contrary to the scope of the words as possibly may be.  
Friends, is this a time to look after great things? (what) while not an Egyptian & an Israelite are one seeking to destroy the other, but these of one and the same nation are putting peace far away from them, endeavouring daily to dig out the heart blood of each other: insomuch that if any loved our Country as Jobs friends loved him, & came among us, they would, as men astonished (if not sit down and speak not a word for 7 days and 7 nights together) yet if they did speak, it is likely it would be somewhat like the Prophet Jeremy's speech: My bowels, my bowels, I am pained at the very heart; my heart maketh a noise in me, I cannot hold my peace, because thou hast heard, 
jeremy.  O my soul, the sound of the trumpet, and the Alarm of war; destruction here is upon destruction, and the whole land is like to be spoilt: especially if they should go abroad, and see parties meet, and as those that went to a play, or a sport, as the young men we read of before Abner an Joab 2 Sam, 2.14, 15, 16. suddenly each man taking hold of the other, and sheathing their swords in one anuthers' sides: but more especially if they should take notice of our battles, and the issue of them oftentimes both by Sea & Land (we wonder now and then at the sudden death of a man) but there they should see hundreds of healthy, stout, and strong men struck dead in the twinkling of an eye, without so much as Lord have mercy upon us: in the Camp oft like what Job expresseth, Job 3●. from v. 18. to 25. and in all battles oftentimes some seen with their arms struck off from their shoulders, another is by him that hath lost his leg: here one with half a face, there another fight upon his stumps; a little further another discharging his Musket, is discharged of his life. And do you think this is a time for Christians to seek after great things for themselves? God forbidden this should grow into custom.  
Obj. But why do you put your hdnd to it? Is it not out of pride, or some selfish end or other? Ans. God knows I have been willing enough to eschew putting my hand: not that I was afraid to prove any thing of what I have said; but all our natures are oft timorous to meddle and own such matters as these are, fearing Solomoms words should prove true, Rebuke a scorner and he will scorn thee, In fine, persuasion of some friends prevailed with me, the rather considering that otherwise it would be counted a pamphlet, and so thrown aside without doing any good; especially if it had not been licenced by those the Parliament hath appointed to such purposes, which I judge would not in likelihood have been without my hand were to it: and withal I was induced to it from the remembrance of another passage of solomon's, If a man's ways please the Lord, He will make his enemies his friends.  
I have 〈…〉 purposely to show men the evil of that so● 〈…〉 ●h●ng of Religion) that so much 〈…〉 to be among us of the Navigation; 〈…〉 some objections, one is being this, That it is not 〈◊〉 being religione, but for being singular, and N●n co 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. In my answer thus I argue: The Cr●ss●, (called f●rme●ly that innocent Ceremony) to hang about ones neck, or at one's wrist; ●o natural reason is of good use, to put us in mind of Christ and bis passion. Quest. Why th●n is it laid aside by the Church of England? Answer., as upon this ground, Because God requires no such thing at our hands; so th●● although ('tis natural reason) many other forms contended for among as, are fit to promote devotion, yet by the same Rule they are not to be laid aside, or at least we are not to quarrel with others for non conforming to them, especially when as we cannot clrarly show, that that God that hath commanded us to worship him in spirit and truth, and hath said, he seeketh such worshippers, doth yet require us to serve him in such and such forms as we would have.  
But because my Book gins to swell, and the work doth more properly belong to Divines, I shall now wave it, with this expression, Seamen go down into the Sea, and compass it about from one end of the earth to another, having but a plank between them and death, and in their Travise are subject to many perils, besides th' t which is very ordinary the springing of a leak, which oftimes grows bigger and bigger, till the Sails like Pharaohs c a ●ot wheels, can carry or drive the ship or vessel no further, but incontinently like a stone, all sinks down to the bottom without recovery Now then, would it not be a sad thing, that we who are oft delivered from such casualties, should yet be judged as lose, profane, and a great if not greater scossers at God and goodness, than any other in the kingdom.  
To wind up all with a word of advice, although amongst Papists it's accounted heresy for Laymen to meddle with Scripture, and we are fallen into such times wherein are such out-cries of Heretics, and Heresies, that were never heard of, or least used to be so termed in the primitive times, most being like those at the tumult of Ephesus, knowing not wherefore; yet I hope it will not be accounted Heresy in me, to borrow a few Scripture expressions to express myself in that way. My friends, or if you will have it in that word so much scoffed at, My Brethren, 
Heb. 13.1.  be not provoked to wrath, but let brotherly love continue. In reference to to myself I am neither fearful nor careful what ever clamours I meet withal from those furious fools whose rage is above and beyond reason, considering that place I have often thought of both at Sea and a shore, The waves of the Sea are mighty, 
Psal. 93 4.  and so oftentimes are the waves of men's proud minds, and they rage's horribly, but the Lord above is Mightier, and when he pleaseth (as in another place) stilleth the raging of the Sea, the roaring of the waves, and the madness of the people. In reference to yourselves, I say, 
Psal. 65.1.  be not provoked to wrath, lest ye heap coals of fire upon your own heads. Believe it friends, they that join with, or connive at Revolters, or any other that are about raising of a n●● war, to troub e & oppress Gods good people, that old live quietly and peaceably in the land, they were ●●st to consider what they do; For the Eternal GOD hath spoke it by his Holiness, and said, (wherein such kind of persons are proud) He will be above them. Again, as I wish you not to be provoked unto wrath, so I wish you not to provoke one another unto wrath: For it may be, seeing somewhat of evil consequence come to pass by reason of what hath been done, and is in this Treatise somuch spoken against, some may be ready to lay the blame on others, as joseph's brethren one upon another but it ought not so to be, I have been taught a better Lesson, and you may learn it also if you please; that 〈◊〉 ●●ee are Christians, our duty is to consider 〈…〉, 
Heb. 10.24.  that we may provoke one another to 〈…〉 to good works. 
Psal. 133.1.  O how amiable it is for all especially for Brethren to live together in unity! Let us therefore live and love without dissimulation; 
Rom 12.9.  yea, let me further advise, Me thinks it is no Atheism, though it may be scorned at, and charged with folly, (if not in after times with Heresy) To seek unto God, that whilst many have been like Nimrod the mighty Hunter, towering up Babbles of self-interest to themselves, and God hath thrown them down as fast; and whilst we are broken to pieces by division and subdivision, and dashing ourselves more and more to pieces, like a Potter's vessel; he would be pleased to show forth the riches of his Grace, and the exceeding greatness of his wisdom in making us up, and joining us together again. To which end, let us further pray, 
Psal. 72.1.  Lord, give thy judgements unto the King, and thy righteousness unto the King's son. Let the Mouncaines' of the Parliament bring us peace, 
Isai. 1.25, 26.  and the little hills thereof righteousness; Take away all our dross, and purge away our Tin, restore us Judges as at the first, and Councillors as at the beginning, that the helpless folk, and the poor may receive their right, and the wrong doer may be punished. 
Psal. 72.12  In their time let the righteous slourish, that God may be glorified, we may have abundance of peace as long as we and our posterity shall have any Being.   

I shall not now vigilantly overlook what faults may be in the phrases, or otherwise by the Printer, an ingenious Reader will connive at them, coming from a Seaman. But were the Title page yet to print, I should add to the Title: a friend of mine would needs give the Book thus: Down right Dealing; or, a word spoken from the Heart,  
FINIS.