Good news from NEW-ENGLAND: WITH An exact relation of the first planting that Country: A description of the profits accrueing by the Worke. Together with a brief, but true discovery of their Order both in Church and Commonwealth, and maintenance allowed the painful Labourers in that Vineyard of the LORD. WITH The names of the several Towns, and who be Preachers to THEM. LONDON; Printed by Matthew Simmons, 1648. A New Relation by Observation, and serious Cogitation touching the Transplantation of our English Nation. TO spend no time in compliment honest John, cast not away these lines, because the meeter and rustical harmony rings but rudely without rhetoric, let me lead thy affections to these following premises: suppose thou see thy face not so amiable as thy fancy deems it to be, fling not furiously to break the glass, moderate thy anger, and I have my desire. Miss not my meaning, by turning my discourse to personate any, but many: It's past my intention to lessen or enlarge for favour or affection. Applause I look not for: some Latin and Eloquent phrases I have picked from others, as commonly clown's use to do, yet be sure I am not in jest: for the subject I writ of requires in many particulars the most solemn and serious meditation that ever any of like nature have done. Favour my clown-ship if I prove too harsh, and I shall remain yours. Of the reasons moving this people to transplant themselves and Families to those remote parts. THe great Jehova's working word effecting wondrously, This earth's vast globe, those parts unknown, to civil people by, Columbus or Alkmerricus by providence direction, Found out this Western world with store of mettles clear extraction. The Spanish project working well, took sudden such impression In minds of many Europe held, who fell to like progression. It's strange to see the Spanish fleet so many should provoke, In English searching for like prize, they are vanished into smoke. Yet these undaunted hearts stirred up a Colony to plant, Height Nova Anglia, for which they gained a patten grant. Now all ancient seld and read in lands new population, No parallel like this (I deem) you'll find in any Nation. These people now begin with care to vese and plot, each man That hears of this new Colony, with diligence doth scan. Such motives as he hath in Eye, one he desires land, Quoth he I see here landed men in reputation stand. Hundreds and thousands I have not to purchase, but I will Through seas much wood-land to achieve, and meadow ground my fill. Up starts another from a sad and serious contemplation, How he a Gentleman might be, good man is his vexation. House implements being turned to coin, his cloth of fashion new, To ship he hies, much welcome Sir, for none his person knew. New raised from sleep, another cries, my earnings are but small, I'll venture to this newfound world, and make amends for all. In haste half breathless running, comes a man with longing sore For novelties of newfound lands, the Seas he would leap o'er. His kindred's letters looking in, ha' ha' here's news indeed, From Brothers, Sisters, Uncles, Aunts, I'll ship myself with speed. These but the stragglers now remains the chiefest troops to eye, Truth 'tis, their standard of resort was Christianity. Courageous Captains leading on, their coins and lands ' way throwing, Made many Soldiers follow fast, their bands in number growing. When England by Elizabeth began a Reformation, It was a joyful day to all, the godly of that Nation. Proh Dolour, it did not go on, with joyful acclamation. But hirarchy and lordly throne of Prelacy invading, The government of Christ's dear flock, than godliness was fading, Some men impute it to the pride of Bishops, others say, The looseness of the Laity did carry most away. But sure it is that godliness, and purities deriding, Moved many godly ones to seek, a place of new abiding. Proud Bishops skilled in policy of machivilian learning, Foresaw their pomp would fall to ground by Scripture clear discerning, New fangled fetches were devised for soon intrapping those Who to the people faithfully truth wholly did disclose. While things thus craftily were contrived, Preachers to prisons pack, The Bishop's Courts were filled with work, and consciences on rack. Come sirrah quoth the Commissary, you will no Surplice wear, Nor yet proclaim our Sunday sports, a Puritan I fear You are, and shall no more preach forth to people stir to rear Against my Lord's grace, I know well, your preaching doth him scare. And to another: as for you, your faction is so much, Whole towns run from their Parish Church to hear your word, are such. As for to overthrow my Lord, and his commanding power, If I live in this Diocese, you shall not stand one hour. In midst of all these woeful stirs grave godly men sit musing, How they their talents might improve, to honour God in using. Nine hundred leagues of roaring seas dishearten feeble parts, Till cruel handling hasten on, and God doth strengthen hearts. Come quoth the husband, my dear wife, canst thou the seas endure, With all our young and tender babes, let's put our faith in ure. With watery eyes the wife replies, what remedy remains, Forsaking all for Christ his sake, will prove the greatest gains. From inland parts poor Christian's pack to Seaports ships to enter, A wonderment, in streets they pass, dividing their strange venture. What mean these mad men soon says one, witless to run away, From English beer, to water, where, no hoones companions stay, But it's the Surplice scares them hence, the Tippet and the Cross, Nay more they fear, my Lords grace here, will bring again the mass. Yea further I have heard of late our Puritans much wonder, Because our Metropolitan intends to bring them under: Thus pass the people to their ships, some grieve they should go free, But make them swear, and search them bare, taking what coin they see. Now Satan seeing God had crossed, his mind in making way, For's people and his Pastors too, in wilderness to stay. Fearing Christ's Kingdom would increase, and his to ground be falling, Stirs up fresh instruments like sheep that wolfishly were haling. Proud error brochers, these crowd in for liberty pretending, The overthrow of Romish trash, their words against it bending. Quoth one here none but Scholar may in pulpit be a Preacher, Pleship myself, for sure I am, full gifted for a Teacher. Up starts another from a crowd, of women, her admiring, An able tongue in Scripture learned, to preach forsooth desiring. With revelations strange, yet true, as Scripture them accounting, Another comes to ship himself, in knowledge all surmounting. 'Gainst Magistrates another cries, none such on earth should stand, I'll venture o'er the broadest Seas for freedom from their hand. Thus diver sly disposed do people pack up away, To populate new Colonies, where none but Heathen stay. Of the Transportation of people and goods to the Mattachusets bay, and other adjacent Colonies. When as this people thus resolved the Ocean Sea to venture, As was their errand, so they did address the ships to enter. Ship-owners seeing like it was their gain might helped be And Undertakers with like hope, to hire ships were free. Close Cabins being now prepared with bread, beef, beer and fish, The passengers prepare themselves that they may have their wish. With little goods, but many words, aboard comes one, and says, I long to set my feet on shore, where cloudy pillar stays, As high as clouds he darts his words, but it is earth he wants: For having past the fishing banks, soon smells the gay ground plants, In long boat with a scouring pace comes gentle-like attended, New fashioned by the Tailor's hand, one for his parts commended. Master at last quoth he, I'm not with labour much enured, Yet for to countenance good folk this toil to be endured. he's loath to say, that men of parts to govern towns are wanting, And therefore he will through the seas, amongst others to be planting. His Cabin is too straight, his fare too mean for his degree, Now good Sir be content a while, on shore you'll ' he more free. Eftsoones comes clambering up the ropes one in his mind revived, That he's no servant, quoth he, this was very well contrived, Now I may go where I can close with people and with Preacher, But its great wages makes him close, for there he needs no teacher. Brief dancing on the decks doth walk another boasting sore Of godly kindred, and he longs to be with them on shore, These and the like may England spare, but oh it's sad to say, That privately for public work thy Worthies went away. Sage, sober, grave and godly men, together counsel seeking At th'hand of God, they fast and pray for their approved liking: And will not stir one foot, but by his word and will directing, So on the seas most happily they found his hand directing. Now large Revennewes hinder not, hooped up in hogsheads they Transport both lands and houses too, nine hundred leagues away. Oh we●l away, now say the poor, our Benefactors going, That filled our children's mouths with bread, look yonder are they rowing O woe is me another cries, my Minister, it's he, As sure as may be, yonder he from Pursuivant doth flee. With trickling tears, scarce uttering speech, another sobbing says, If our poor preacher shipped be, he'll ne'er live half the way, But one poor friend, another cries, my secret heart to plain, And he and his are shipped, now I'll after him amain. 'Mongst these doth Satan get a fraught, Angels of light they seeming, Were entertained among the rest, as holy Saints them deeming. Hardly beset on every side, God's people thus attended, To troublous seas betake themselves, yet by their God befriended. In straits to get their goods aboard, their wives and obildrens small, Hard to attain a clearing thought, clearly dismissed of all. But God and godly friends, whom they find in their hardships free, To send and lend them help in all, their great calamity. The boisterous waves begin to hoist their brittle barks on hie, When suddenly the billows break, and dash their ships awry. Unwonted to such wondrous works the little babes complain For harbour in their Mother's arms, whom sickness doth constrain To sit as helpless, yea, for help of others they do cry, But all sea-sick for present, all do others help deny. Each corner's filled with goods and folk, the ships large womb could bear, That hot diseases breed among, this crowd, no room to spare For any weak ones, nor for those, whose fruit was ripe for light, On soundlesse depths their babes are borne 'mongst waves above ships height. Both aged, weak, and tender ones the seas now tumbling toss, Till they I forced to harbour turned, with stormy winds being crossed. In western Anglia, and the Isle Hibernia they bide, With longing for Jehova's help, who only winds doth guide. As loft to lose the last long sight of their dear native soil, Both back and forth the winds them drive, with much restless toil. But being once in Ocean large, where depths the earth wide sever, Return no more, though winds them cross, to end their course indere. In unknown depths, and pathless Seas, there nights and days they spend, 'Mongst stormy winds & mountain waves long time no land they kend. At ship's mast doth Christ's Pastors preach, while waves like Prelates proud, Would sling them from their pulpits place as not by them allowed. The swelling surges raging come to stop their mouths with foam, For publishing of every truth that by God's word is known. But Christ as once, so now says peace waves, and be still, For all their height they fall down flat, obey they must his will. And now the Seas like meadows green, whose ground and grass even are, Doth gently lead their ships as sheep from place to place afar. Who would not wait on such a God, that heaven, earth, seas commands, To serve his folk, then serve him folk, conducted by his hand. For forty, fifty, sixty days and nights they safely swim, Preparing oft for fight, at sight of ships that pirates been. Long looked for land at length the eye, unknown, yet own they will, To plant therein new Colonies, wide wilderness to fill. Of the arrival of our English Nation at the Mattachusets Bay, etc. WIth hearts revived in conceit, new land and trees they eye, Scenting the Cedars and sweet fern from heats reflection dry. Much like the bird from dolsome Rome's enclosed in cage of wire, Set forth in fragrant fields, doth skip in hope of her desire. So leap the hearts of these mixed men by straits o'er seat enured, To following hard ships wilderness, doth force to be endured. In clipping arms of ont-stretcht Capes, there ships now gliding enter, In bay where many little Isles do stand in water's Centre. Where Sea-calves with their hairy heads gaze 'bove the water's brim, Wondering to see such unconth sights their sporting place to swim. The seas vast length makes welcome shores unto this wand'ring race, Who now found footing freely for, Christ's Church his resting place. This people landing, soonly showed diversity of minds, As various heads, so actions did declare their divers kinds. Now patience, John, give ear a while unto a brief digression, The better shalt thou understand the following progression. Diversity of censure have passed on this people, why Most judge the whole by lesser part, and parts run much awry. By parts the giver, nor to part, and thou a part shalt see, To be partakers with the truth in heart's simplicity. Yet further let me mind thee more from Satan's sullin fits, Great rancour doth against them rise, enlarged by divers wits. Yea malcontents none well content but discontentedly, They breath out ill, being crossed in will to all lamentingly. But now let's on my honest John, to land this people came, 'Mongst trees and men that naked been, whom labour did not tame. Small entrance did they make therein, for why diseases stay, Their long unwonted legs to walk, in wilderness the way. In booths and huts lamenting lie, both men and women eke, Some breathing out their latest breath, and others faintly speak. Unto their friends for secure soon that strength they might recover, Which once attained, they search the land, tracing the Country over. To raising Towns and Churches new, in wilderness they wander, First Plymouth, and then Salem next, were placed far asunder. Charles river where they nextly land, a Town like name they built Poor Cottages them populate, with winter's wet soon spilt. Brave Boston such beginning had, Dorchester so began, Roxbury risen as mean as they, Cambridge forth from them ran. Lin likewise built, when Watertowne first houses up did rear, Then large limbed Ipswich brought to eye 'mongst woods & waters clear. Hartford, New-haven, situate, Sandwich and Dover all, In wilderness 'mongst people wild, there Situations fall, Newberry, Weymouth, Hingham, Hall, have their first nomination, Rude Island Providence brought forth by banished their station. Springfield, Hamlton, Concord, eke Deddam and Rowly, 〈◊〉 New peopled in this Western world, where lands lie waste and free. Salisbury, Sudbury, both began, to bore the Land, and plant, Braintre, Gloucester, Exeter, placed where the wild beasts haunt. Wooborn, Wickham, Redding built, with little silver mettle, Andover, Haverhill, Berri's-banks, their habitations settle. Southampton, Martins-vineyard, and some new named Towns beside, All by this brood of travellers, were peopled far and wide. With what they had storded up for time of scarcity, they live, Till tubs were empty, and the Land, could them small succour give. God ne'er denies them fresh supplies, with joy oft ships they eye, That bring in bread & meat for food when in those straits they cry. Till labour bless the earth's increase, and food each Town doth fill, The land being sown with man and beast, great store retaining still. A brief description of the Land, Beasts, Birds, Trees, and Fruits. Vnleveled lies this land new found with hills and valleys low, With many mixtures of such mould where fruits do fertile grow. Well watered with the pleasant springs that from the hills arise, The waters run with warbling tunes, with stones that in them lies. To welcome weary travellers, resting unneath the shade, Of lofty banks, where lowly boughs, for them fresh harbour made. The lesser Rivulets rend themselves into a wider way, Where scouring torrents furious fall, through rocks their streams do stray. SPRING. AT end of March gins the Spring, by Sols new elivation, Sealing away the earth's white robe, dropping with sweats vexation. The Codfish, Holybut, & Basse, do sport the rivers in, And Awl wives with their crowding shoals, in every creek do swim. Leaving their spawn in ponds to thrive 'mongst Pikes devouring jaws. That swallow Trout, Tench, Roach and Breme into their greedy maws. Pirch, Shad, and Eels, there plenty full the panyard and the pan, Smelts, Lobsters, Crabfish, pranes and shrimps, with cockles mussels clams. Plenty of oysters overgrow the flowed lands so thick, That thousand loads to lime are turned, to lay fast stone and brick. The Cormorants with greedy gut full fast the fishes follow, And Eagles with their piercing sight look through the waters shallow. Ducks, Hens, and Pheasants often row upon the water's brim, With plenty of their fellow fowls to welcome in the Spring. Devouring fires burning black the earth's old rusty hue, Like torchbearers in gloomy night, their flames with wind sore flew. Like Phoenix rare, from ashes old, of grass, doth grass arise, The earth casts off her mourning coat, gay clad like bride to eyes. With herbs and divers precious plants for physics operation, Diversity of fragrant flowers for senses recreation. SUMMER. BEspread with Roses Summer begins take place with hasty speed, Whose parching beat Strawberries cool doth moderation breed. Air darkening shoals of pigeons pick their berries sweet and good, The lovely Cherries birds entice, to feast themselves in woods. The Turkeys, Partridge, Heath-hens and their young ones tracing pass, The woods and meadows, Achorn eat, and hoppers in the grass. Like Virgil's knat musketo flies with buzzy humming dare Assault the stoutest with long trunk, both blood and blisters rear. When little lineaments the Sun, or wind doth feeble make Yea cooling dews their swarms allay, and strength of stinging slake. The little hum birds sucking sweet, from flowers draw their food, Humilities in sommer-time only find livelihood. AUTUMNE. GOod wholesome and delightful food, variety & store, The Husbandman rejoicing keeps, with fruit the earth's womb boar. Peas plenty, Barley, Oats and wheat, Rye richly stocking stands, Such store the ploughman late hath found, that they feed foreign lands. Cucumbers, melons, apples, pears, and plums do flourish fair, Yea what delight and profit would, they still are adding there. Six sorts of Oaks the land affords, Walnuts do differ so, That divers shapes their fruit retains, and food that in them grow. Roots are not wanting, wild and tame, in gardens they increase, Ground nuts, ground beans, not gathered till, warmth doth the earth release. Grapes wanting vintage, common grow, fit for the travellers hand, With food from berries multitude, that grow throughout the land. WINTER. Sharp, sudden, yet with lightsome looks doth winters cold come in, With thick, large Coat doth the earth, both soft, smooth, white and trim. The large tempestuous surges are bound in with frozen band, Where ship did anchor, men do walk, and carts as on the land. The Geese fly prating night and day, to tell the approaching season, Brought down by gun shot from their flight unto the Indians geson. The tumbling bears entrapped are, mongst houses sudden enter, O'erthrown by eager hunters, who pursue them in this venture. The tripping Deer with length of leaps, do burst through frozen snow, Hunters pursue with bracket shoes, at length they weary grow. Then down the dogs them sudden draw, exposed to hunter's pleasure, Their fl●sh well welcome, and their skins, are chief of Indian treasure. Whole kennels of devouring wolves both Deer and Swine destroy, Yet scared by weakest children, they them the less annoy. The Sun's bright presence most days doth cheer man and beast with joy, With hope of pleasant springs approach to free from colds annoy. With minerals the earth is fraught, though Alchemists are wanting, Which makes current mettle prized 'mongst Merchants daily scanting. Of their building, planting, and giving out of LANDS. Delightful to the eye did lie the woods and meadows green, The paths untrod by man and beast, both smooth and cleanly seen. Most men unlanded till this time, for large lands Eages sue, Had not restraint knocked of their bands, too big their fermes had grew. Give ear I pray unto the praise set on a new Plantation, First for the meadow sirs says one, I have found such a station. Where grass doth grow as high as I, round stalks and very thick, No hassocks but a bottom plain, Carts cannot therein stick. Salt bay and fresh there thousands are of acres I do deem, A gallant barber there's for ships the best that yet is seen. Boats may come up unto our doors, the Creeks convenient lie, Fish plenty taken in them are, plains plowable hard by. No bush nor roots to hinder them, yet stately timber is, In every swamp, yea uplands too, most clobberd trees I wis. Day there for brick and tile, pot-earth with ease, and store, Some men suppose black lead is there, silver and copper o'er. Carry but guns, and wild fowl will be brought unto our dishes, Venison and Moose you there may catch according to your wishes. All creatures thrive exceeding well, Goats, Swine, and sheep for meat, Horse, Cows, and Calves increase as well, there's store of English wheat. Five, seven, or nine old Planters do take up their station first, Whose property is not to share unto themselves the worst. Their Cottages like Crows nests built, new comers goods attain, For men's accommodation sake, they truck their seats for gain. Come buy my house, here may you have, much meadow at your door, 'Twill dearer be if you stay till, the land be planted o'er. See you that garden plate enclosed, Pumkins there hundreds are, Parsnips and Roots, with Cabiges, grow in great plenty there. Lay out an hundred pound or two, you shall have such a seat, When you have planted but one crop, you cannot want for meat. This praise doth make the purchaser his gold and silver throw, Into his hand for house and land that yet he did not know. Unseen, and yet sudden bought, when once the sale was ended, His purchase makes him miss of more, with gifts he's not befriended. One he hath friends to praise his parts, his lot shall larger be, For useful men are highly prized, such shall sell two or three. Sure much mistaken, towns have been, for many have made prize, Get all they can, sell often, than, and thus old Planters rise. They build to sell, and sell to build, where they find towns are planting, Till men no more the Sea pass o'er, and Customers are wanting. Then those that boast their towns were full for company are longing, Who lately feared land would fall short, when men to them came thronging. Insatiate minds for meadow, and best land they could attain, Hath caused Towns, land lay by lot, I wish it were not vain. Of their Civil Government THe Transplantation of this people and patten inrevaded, (though rare yet) honest advice in law was had by wise, sober, and godly gentlemen's, foreseeing the daily adding stones to such a work, would be more envied than the Golden fleece of Colchos. God giving favour, they attained a large patten under the bro●d Seal of England, to set up government, not only for the orderly execution of judgement and justice among themselves, but for the suppressing of all malignant adversaries to the kingdom of Christ, that at any time should invade or disturb this government: for proof ask their adversaries, who though Doeg like will tell you both Magistrates and Ministers join heart and hand herein, yet the latter meddle not with Civil Justice, as some would bear men in hand: But let's on, this patten hath proved corrasive to some, especially in not admitting appeals: Some seeking to have it recaed; others crying out it's forfeit, yet hitherto held, and meet men yearly chose for Governor, Deputy, and Assistants, (whose acts of justice have passed sundry censures) as also from each Town two Deputies are sent in the name of the Freemen, who joining together in one body or general Court, have according to their patten made many Causes agreeable to the word of God, and their wilderness condition both for English and Indian to follow. Quarter Session, or Goal-delivery are kept by seven Magistrates, the Governor or Deputy being one: as also in the several Shires for trials between man and man, are constant Courts kept, and in every Town certain persons are yearly chosen to end causes of lesser virtue, with free access for any persons that find themselves grieved, to appeal from one Court to another, even to the highest, which is the general Court. Their laws are of three sorts; 1. The laws of England, so far as the people and place can be capable. 2. Laws wholly of their own. 3. When cases fall out, that neither of these will reach, they are to follow such rules as are clearly drawn from the word of God: and because many men take upon them to interpret the Scriptures now adays: so that instead of one of a thousand, there appears a thousand to one, which makes them endeavour (with the ablest gifted men God hath given them) to obtain positive laws: for all matters may come in judgement, that Arbitrariness may be avoided. And now because the courage, dexterity, and skill of Commanders appeareth most when they meet with their enemy: know four sorts of persons have battered this government not only with their greater Artillery, at 900. leagues distance, but with continual small shot at 10. or 12. and sometimes at pistol-shot, raising over-topping batteries, brest-works, & outfacing Galleries, delving deep to undermine the foundation (though built on the surest rock) casting forth fierce firing granadoes, using all the stratagems such cunning Engineers could possibly invent. The first onset was given by Bonasosias under the conduct of their host of Merrimount, who having some trials in the Courts of Justice, assayed to mend his bad cause with bribes: but finding repulse in both, began to make use of an Engine for battery called Pontifieatus (consulting with such as were best skilled herein) to beat down this new erected government, yet did little damage it, being of small force in these American parts: at length was entreated to departed, which he refusing, was shipped with a takele for the fertile Isle of great Britain, which those Gentlemen now ruling this Colony so lostly left, where he arriving, made his complaint to those, whose lordly injunctions enforced the greater part of this people to make choice of a banished condition for them and theirs, enduring rather the wants of a wilderdesse, than a Prelates prison his (complaint being heard) appeals to England, being of purpose left out in the Mattachusets' Patten, no Summoner nor Pursuivant was found to venture so far: yet the Host to make a merriment of the departure of so many reverend, learned, godly and judicious men (a sad Omen of some following tragedy) set forth a Pamphlet in print, full fraught with loud lies to make his Bonasosia's laugh. But prevailing little, ventured another voyage in these parts to find a new place for storming this government afresh, tracing the Country to and fro, was apprehended of Indian ammunition, arrow heads of a more mortal nature than any yet used among them. The second onset was given by greater troops of Sexes, not marshaled under the command of any one in chief: but those that could best use their battering Engine, were leaders of the rest: and verily they handled the matter so, that they came to handy gripes undiscovered: their new Engine was called Populatri aure Captator, somewhat like the Trojan horse for rarity, it was covered with women's aprons, and bolstered out with the judgement and deep discerning of the godly and reverend: but to say truth, they foully belied him; These Sectaries having made a breach in most Towns in the country, publishing as through a trunk the great tyranny of those that rule over their own species, persuading Authority is so fare from maintaining liberty, that they cannot stand together: insomuch that Governors and governed began to wonder at the sudden alteration in Courts and country: so that it would have put an able Politic to a nonplus. But the Lord graciously assisting, they courageously go on, first unarming all suspected persons: and then to prevent the spreading of this gangrin, they endeavour the dispersing of this red Regiment. Some at loss of esteem voluntarily departed, others were banished, and others withdrawing submitted again to the godly government of this Common wealth. The third storm this government felt was from the scum of the former under the command of Samuel Gorton, who knowing some of his Sectaries were closely lurking behind in this government; sent forth his blasphemies to thunder down all government as diabolical, raging and railing against Magistrates and general Courts, as murderers, absolving from their obedience all such as would follow their opinion; had not the conceitedness of their own elegancy hindered, they might have done much hurt, their leader being a very dangerous, bold-spoken fellow, and full of sawning; with which, having gained some 12. or 13. families to cide with him, enforcing land from the poor Indians by means of the most potent Sachim of those parts, under whose friendship they bore themselves bold against the united Colonies, building on the Indians land, having outed themselves from all government, would not submit to any law or common reason, desperately going on, threatening blood and death to any should come to apprehend them; Yet at length were handsomely apprehended without one drop of blood spilt, for all their great boaster, brought to a general Court, and there proceeded against: yet so slenderly (their offence being very destructive to all government: And of such an high nature) that their malice increasing, their Censure did but exasperate, and not at all disenabled them to prosecute as formerly the great disturbance, if not overthrow of this little commonwealth; these persons yet remain, battering the united Colonies with all the force they are able to make: and as they deny government among Christians, so they endeavour to overthrow one government with another. The 4th onset was made by a Doctor of physic, as Commander in chief, with six other inferior Officers, who pretended they had thousands on their side: & therefore to muster up all the force they could, proclaim (at a general Court) themselves to be leaders to all discontented persons, who disliked any thing this government had done (plausable to all the straggling Bonasosia's and Prelatical faction, that had hid themselves in holes since the former bickering) and furnishing them with fresh weapons, teaching them to dissemble, as if siding with England's government, promising to themselves the procurement of all the old Ceremonies and odds Holidays. Next this black Regiment, appeared a red Regiment of fiery contentious persons, who for want of their wills against their adversaries in law, make many sad complaints; and now are persuaded, could they but cast down this government, they should have such laws, Lawyers, and Magistrates, that the case would go always on their side, whether Plaintiff or defendant. In order followed a white Regiment, consisting of sundry Sectaries, in hope of attaining liberty, or rather liscentiousnesse; were this government but once suppressed to bring up the rear: under an Ensign part, argent part, or colour, lappeared two sorts of people: the one deeming it a way for encreale of trade, not only to blindfold Justice, but stay her sword from falling on the heads of such as could cover their crime with pretence of conscience: The other possessed with strong conceits, that if this government were not cast down, they should never come to govern. Thus furnished, they made strong opposition, some of them boasting what a day they should get: but their great numbers failing them, and in stead of thousands, there appeared not thirty: and further being apprehended in midst of their project, were imprisoned, and fined further folly: yet but little in respect of their offence. Only thus much some have learned, to show so much clemency to their adversaries, that it proves cruelty to their friends. What faithfulness, courage and justice in all these passages have been showed by those in authority, cannot be waned by the reproachful words, and piercing looks of pale-faced envy. And now my friend John, when thou hearest any upbraiding, deriding, condemning, and exclaiming against this government of this little Commonwealth, for my sake examine them before thou believe them, and you shall find them to have fled from one of these Regiments, or at least a well-willer of theirs that could have wished them the day: And now to end this slender touch of their Civil government, eye this following meeter. TO populate this howling desert Land, The only work is of Jehovah's band. Contemn no weakest means in hand of him: See here his work by means that weakest been. In thrice five years a Commonwealth complete, For peace, for war, for actions small and great. Five hundred Laws for people's plain direction, England's addition as natural Connection. Pressed to oppose haters of peace: with guide Of Officers, three Regiments abide. In Middlesex seven Ensigns are displayed, There disciplined by Major Sedgwick's aid. In Suffolk nine, by Major Gibbons led, Essex and Norfolk in one are marshaled, By Denison, their Major in the field, Their General a yearly choice doth yield. Eight times a year each band instructed is, And once to meet in one they may not miss. Both Horse & Foot, force, forts and Castles are, Prepared in peace for peace, yet fit for War. To awe bruit men, Justice impartially, Hath hitherto with pale suspicious eye, Dispersed the crimes common in many Lands, Disgrace for vice, honour for virtue stands. Now notice take, this is the grand complaint, That English here from privileged restraint, Have: why I pray, you'll privilege confound, If common they with laurel all not crowned. For trades, commerce, Merchants, Sea-affaires, Great freedoms bad, large gains their loss repairs. Monopolies is by their laws forbidden, Unless invention rare from others hid. All handicrafts have choice of work at will, And ordered are, lest working praise they spill. As shipping great, built up by timbers strength, But iron mills their chains of greater length. Salt, soap and glass, Tiles, lime and brick are made, With orders for well-ordering each Trade. So suited hath his providence, that none. Can contradict: envy of any one Shall not prevail, Justice and peace shall still, Perfect this work, govern for God they will. For hutbandry, Corn, Cattell, wood and bay, Good laws are made for all men to obey. Listen a while, I must spend one word more, Some rubs remain, are hardlier gotten o'er. Bipartior in many Court and Cause, Doth dull the edge of Justice, Sword and Laws. Discloseth Counsels, opens Breaches wide, That adverse part steps in without a guide. Makes causes good or bad, as men affect it, Doth what's opposed, and what is liked neglect it. Tells liberty, authority will stop, And clip her wings, quoth she, I'll sit on top. Tells men their cause is good, but wanting Laws: or Judges are in learned, in sight seanting. More yet remains, swift speakers show but bacl, So counsels lost words will not fill a sack. And now say truth doth not great skill appear, Through such tempestuous seas and storms to steer. So swiftly one grappling with Pirates oft, For England feigned, bearing their flag aloft. To England yet, ungrateful they'll not be, That govern here, yet little help they see. The more's to come, experience teaches sure, You'll pity more, when you the like endure. More yet you'll find our enemies are yours, You'll hurt yourselves if you increase their powers. Forgive, that they so much your good forget, Lighter to truth, those they should harder hit. If England one as truths but one embrace, These took your name, and you will take their ease. If England say more ways than one they wilt Allow no more than helps reforming still. Those that are skilled in structures model, make, A little moddel here is for you, take What may serve turn for opposites to awe, For Kings may rule without a Bishop's law. Can Bishops keep down all their Lordship's spoil, And can't highest Court awe those God's word defile. With blasphemous horrid interpretation, As only they knowing God's explanation. Ruin now men strive, with words contentious strength, New-englands' acts shall speak, not words at length. While fogs arise from error breaching brains, Their justice clouded is, and what remains. But unto God that they commit their way, And judgement shall burst forth as sunny day. Let England wait with patience for the same, Not drawing bacl for cost, finish for shame. jast Prelates proud tollerating deride, Ye know not truth without their guide. Of the planting of the Gospel of our Lord Christ in the Mattachusets, and other adjacent COLONIES. WHen these persecuted servants of Christ Jesus first set foot on these American shores, having their tongues untied from the Prelate's Injunctions, they preach with all diligence to their Auditors, doubling their hours to regain their lost time, being throughly warmed with the manifestation of the love of their Lord Christ, in bearing them in his arms through the boisterous waves, a depthless Ocean; these exiled Ministers of Christ soon began to gather into Churches, as meet stones were offered; and now you shall see how they hasted after fat Benefits, every one endeavouring to associate themselves with plain honest-hearted Christians rich in grace, the Lord assisting: with full purpose of heart to cleave unto the Lord Christ, and submit to his kingdom according to the rule of his word made known unto them: and also to exhort one another while it is called to day, (and this is the substance of that Church-covenant that so many are grieved at;) this they do with solemn and serious seeking of the Lord by prayer & fasting. And now I beseech you all that rightly love the Lord Christ, forbear taking up any prejudice against this poor people from the report of others. Can your eyes and ears see & hear their comely order, and with what spiritual expressions the Lord assists his servants in the Ministry, it would assuredly (God helping) cause your bowels to yern toward them & the Churches to which they do belong: many of whom hereafter are expressed by name, together with their annual maintenance so near, as for the present I could gather. Only take notice New England's pounds in some things called currant pay, will hardly hold out with old England Angels, and yet will they not be gone from their flocks for thicker fleeces, unless example prove prejudicial to others. Salem: Mr. Hugh Peter's (in Engl.) Mr. Edw. Norris, 60. pound Charles Town: M. Zach. Sims, 90. l. Mr. Tho. Allen 60. l. Boston: Mr. John Cotton, 90. l. M. John Wilson 60 l. Roxbury: M Thomas Wells. (in England) 80. l. Dorchester: M. Richard mather's, 70. l. Watertown: M. Fran. Knowles, 80 l. Linne: M. Sam. Whiteing, 45. l. M. Tho. Cobbit, 45 l. Ipswich: M. Nat. Rogers 70. l. M. John Norton, 70. l. Hingham: M. P. Hubbert, 60. l. Waymouth: Mr. Tho. Thatcher, 50 l. Rowly: M. Ezek. Rogers, 80. l. M. Sam. mather's, 30. l. Cambridge: M. Tho. Sheppard, 70. l. Deddam: M. John Allen, 50. l. Concord: M. Buckly, 70. l. Salisbury: M. Th. Woster, 45. l. Newberry M. Tho. Parker, 40. l. M. Jam. Noise, 60. l. Hampton: M. Boulton, 40. l. Sudbury: M. Edm. Browne, 40. l. Braintree: M. Henry Flint, 30. l. M. Wil Tompson, 30. l. Dover: M. Dan. Maud, 40. l. Gloster: M. Richard Blindman, 40. l. Wooborn: M. Tho. Carter, 60. l. Redding: M. Green, 30. l. Wenham: M. David Tisk, 20. l. Harerhill: Mr. John Ward. Andover: Mr. Woodbridge. These 26. Churches are in the government of the Mattachusets, besides these Towns following: Manchester, (Mr. Smith:) Hull, (Mr. Matthews:) Exeter (Mr. Norcraft:) Strawberry Banks (St. Batelie. New Meadows, (Mr. Knight,) who is gone to England. The Worthies of the other Colonies I omit, all men of esteem: These are men chosen to office by the people, and ordained in presence of one or two magistrates, together with the Elders and messengers of as many Churches as may conveniently send, who are as so many faithful witnesses to the orthodox judgement, and pious life of such as are to teach the people; which Elders and messengers in the name of their Churches, hold out the communion and fellowship they desire to have with them. Since England's troubles, these Churches have been very frequent in extraordinary seeking of the Lord, with much affection, fasting and praying, not without tears and strong cries for an happy Issue to the glory of God, and the good of his people. In admitting persons to the sacramental union, they endeavour to see the manifestation of God's grace wrought upon their souls, expressed by their godly lives and conversations, either by continued observance, or honest testimony, they are admitted by the Elders, with consent of the people; and all excommunications are by the same authority of the Elders, and consent of the people, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ administered to the terror of scandalous professors. As for prayer, singing of Psalms, and the word preached, all are partakers of: and all children and servants in public catechised, and verily the thirsting desires they have that all may come to the truth, even as it is in Jesus, appears by the affable and courteous carriage of all that preach the word, being instant in season and out of season, etc. who are reputed both learned and judicious, and by God's blessing on their labours, have gained many a soul to Christ. The people of these Colonies are generally laborious after knowledge in religion, to which end they have societies, or neighbourly invitatations each of other, for edification; in which the industrious pains and care of their minister to propagate the truth, appears, praying and opening the Scriptures thus privately, besides all their public administrations. This truth may serve to show the savouriness of this salt: And now to take away the wonder how these ministers and people should come by so many back friends, walking in measure so inoffensively, you shall understand, holiness, righteousness, humility, and learning in some called of Christ to be able ministers of his word and doctrine; divers, who love the pre-eminence of both sexes, having taken a trick to preach to advance themselves, began to inveigh against learning, Scholars, and Colleges, and in mean time stretching out what themselves had, till they rend into nonsense, and verily these soon grew to a round company praising one another's parts when others would not; and to cause others to admire them, they question the ancient truths taught by their ministers, and that before the whole congregation, and tell you the meaning of the original Text. These were abler to discern (as they apprehend) than their Elders, who were fit for the Sacrament, delighting to show their skill that way. Again, all know nothing is more opposite than damnable errors and saving truth. Now the unanimous agreement of their teaching Elders in the truth, hath caused those who are contrary minded, to misreport their words and actions, cunningly casting false glosses on their doctrines, slighting all those godly Christians who agree in the fame truths, as weak punies, taking up all they have on trust. Further, take notice that our English nation having been accustomed after 16 years of age, to receive the Sacrament: now some here in these Colonies being upon good ground denied, with bitter speeches, and taunting language, upbraid both magistrates, ministers and people, pouring out their complaints into their bosoms who are their good friends in England, telling they are abridged of the liberties of English subjects, etc. Lastly, certain persons more affecting trade than truth, prove discontented with such as are against the suffering gross errors. These are the rubs have been cast in the way to hinder the through reformation; yet now, though with great difficulty, nearer accomplished than ever, if lukewarm liberty hinder not the good work of our God. And as for these instruments whom the Lord hath made use of, you mar the work, if you attribute aught unto them, and it will be very distasteful to their Christian appetites; yet I will show their prosecuting the work in the following meeter. What creature man that is so apt to take His praise, who work and workman both did make, In telling of these Worthies work than I Own none but God, and yet his means I eye, Who though nine hundred leagues at sea, hath sent These twenty Worthies, who their time have spent In preaching Christ, his mind and will reveal From Scripture light each servant's portion deal. One opens Prophecies as yet to come, So ready is the Scripture in his tongue. That word and sense his memory retains, Clear Scripture light, all by great labour gains. One hews the cords of wicked works with ire- Full Arguments as God doth him require. One precious Balm from Christ's dear sufferings fa●, Wounded to heal; if heal to fast, then frets Down the proud flesh from thought of knowledge rising, Till Christ alone they know, him only prising. One Sheppard he takes restless pains that none Themselves delude with happy state as one Beloved of God in Christ, and therefore makes Clear evidence from God's word, whom he takes, And wholly bend to save his flock from rearing, With watchful eye ' way sheep slaying Wolves is scaring. One labours faith may get assurance fast, One he exhorts the anchor, hope to cast. One follows peace, and bids all folk pursue it, One's for fresh love, and when it's old renew it. One puts in mind with patience to abide, One cease from strife, take meekneesse on your side. One to humility exhorts with care, One wills their lives may pass in godly fear. One cheerful bids in spirits joy to cheer. One would men mourn with those are mourners here. One bounty doth by his example teach, One zeal to God and's truth doth daily preach. One heavenly mindedness persuadeth still, One Christian boldness seated in the will. One purity and holiness commends, One's for just dealing both with foes and friend. One he exhorts all Christian watch to keep, One prayer would with sighs and groans so deep. One unto reading Scripture men persuades, One labour bids for food that never fades. One to redeem their time exhorteth all, One looking round, for wary walking calls. One he persuades m●n buy the truth, not sell, One would men should in moderateness excel. One for renewed repentance daily strives, One's for a conscience clear in all men's lives. One he exhorts all men God's word to hear, One doth beseech to lend obedient ear. One he desires evils appearance shun, One with diligence would all should be done. One shows their woe that will not God believe; One doth beseech God's Spirit they'll not grieve. One wishes none to deep despair do run, One bids beware none to pesumption come. One wils that all at murmuring take heed, One shows that strife and envy should not breed. One shows the hatred God to pride doth bear, One covetousness cries down with bellish fear. One to lukewarmness wishes none do grow, One none for fear forsake the truth they know. One idle talk and foolish jesting shun, One bids that none unto uncleanness run. One says, none should selfseeking entertain, One teaches all in anger should contain. One idleness dehorts with meekle pain, One bids beware of error-breaching brains. One would all men surfeits excess take heed, One world's joy and sorrow do not exceed. One ignorance would not men's souls should stay, One in known sins bids men they would not stay. One wishes none of Faith do shipwreck make, One their first love in Christ, that none forsake. One in their breast would none two hearts should bear, One woe of hypocrites doth oft declare. One bids beware, hardness of heart will breed, One, to add sin to sin that none proceed. One lying tongues doth tell God hateth such, One bids beware, for Satan's wiles are much. One says 'gainst all, power from Christ is had, One bids all be with's armour ever clad. I name but one, 'cause all as one the same, Exhort, dehort, in the Lord Christ his Name, Minding all still it's Christ his will that all Depart from ill, that on God's Name do call. And further they profess that Christ alone, Works ●ll in his, and for his every one. So grace is free, and nothing we to cause The cords of love with which Gods Spirit draws. Which Spirit plainly doth appear in all These preach that from ear then lips do fall Like d●aw on grass, however some deny it As legal they: from God's word do thou try it. And neighbour John, yet one thing more now mind, Their learned counsel helps the truth to find. Coupling these men in Synods God hath blest. By his word truth is found, error confessed. As helpful unto godly learning they, With Schools and College, find out learning's way. These people, though much weakened in their estates, for the space of ten years, yet have erected Schools in divers Towns, and also a College in the Town of Cambridge, called Harves College: The Precedent being an able Proficient in the Tongues, very studious to promote learning, witness the young Audients both here and gone for England, hopeful instruments in the hands of the Lord for future times: the Precedent is Mr. Dunster. Yet unto God this people feeling says, Not unto us, but to thy name be praise. Now must I mind what hindrances remain To blast the fruit of all these Worthies pain. Some would none should endeavour unity, Tyrants (say they) do hinder liberty: Why truth's but one, and Christ will make you free, Come to the Word, let that your touch-stome bee. Some fear Presbytery hath too great power, If you are Christ's, than all they have is yours. Some odd ones say they Independents are, Therefore in others counsel they'll no share But now I'll end, and tell you friend, what will Persuade their way do●●●old with still. Strong Arguments do papers fill each way With words of heat: bu● honest john now stay, Unto experience let thy judgement bow, Let actions speak, and not men's words to you. For little time, some subtle Foxes will Bridle their nature, and yet Foxes still. Lord Bishops did some errors fend from sheep, So beasts of prey others from preying keep. Some new raised errors Bishops power deny To side with truth, and yet their error eye. Near twenty years these Churches you may trace In godly steps, no false way they'll embrace. Look in this glass that thus is slubbered o'er, And you may see four things uneyd before. No Prelate no King: that's not so, for see Here Church's power and command agree, Of civil power to which these Churches yield Humble obedience, as their duty held. Next note, some say, Opinions none must touch, For fear they wrong the consciences of such, With word of truth, God helping true endeavours, Christ's Pastor here error and conscience severs. Third, Law and Gospel at such odds have set, That Rule of walking from it none may get. But here experience from God's word is found, God's folk with's word walk wary, looking round. Last, humane learning is no mean, some say; Blost by the Lord, to find his word and way, But as a means this people found it have, Yet trust not means, its only God must save. But England now to thee I'll mean commend, Make use of these before their life they end. The grave, godly, and judicious Mr. Hooker is laid in earth Mr. Philip's, Mr. Huet, Mr. Harver, and some others of like esteem yet remaining in the united Colonies, of name and note: Only my friend John, see here a short observation taken from the whole for thy own use. Church-covenant Band brought in with liberty, But causeth men to walk licentiously. Some buy the truth: for conscience liberty, Error's brought in to blind men damningly. And now before I end, let me tell thee who are like to reap benefit by transporting themselves to those Colonies: First, Merchants who are skilled in commerce with foreign nations, lying near the Indies, and well stored with ship provision cheaper than England. Secondly, Seamen are well employed, if skilled in Navigation, shipping increasing every day, and would be fare more, had they Masters to manage the work. Thirdly, Has band-men are like to benefit themselves much all sorts of cattles increasing exceedingly, and tillage prospering, that thousands of Acres are broken up yearly. Fourthly, all manual occupations are falling into their ranks and places daily, (only Printers of Cards, and Dice-makers, I could wish to forbear,) very few but have increased in the riches of this life; and further how now men of estates may improve what they have to their great advantage. And this I dare assure that one hundred pounds will do that which five hundred could not do at first planting of this little Commonwealth, which was the reason so many sunk in their estates; but now they see it too late, and some will not wait the Lords leisure for repairing, but forsake their station, with others have gained much, and carry it to other places to show, and so lose it again. But my john, be thou more stable. Last, let all those who desire to have themselves discovered to themselves, resort to this place; where, if they seek not themselves they may find themselves, if not already lost in self-conceitedness of some strong opinion, for which if they desire to be admired, let them leave this long voyage, and keep at home. FINIS.