A BRIEF RELATION OF THE Strange and Unnatural PRACTICES OF WESSEL GOODWIN, MEHETABELL JONES the wife of EDWARD JONES, and ELIZABETH PIGEON the wife of JOHN PIGEON.  Prov. 2. 16, 17. 
To deliver thee from the strange woman, even from the stranger that flatters with her words.  
Which forsakes the guide of her youth, and forgets the Covenant of her God.  Prov. 30. 15. The Horseleech hath two Daughters, that cry Give, Give. 
Printed in the Year, 1654.   

TO THE READER.  
READER,  
I Here present thee with a most stupenatous Relation of a father, formerly loving his children even to doting, and now without any just provocation abhorring his own flesh: of two sisters that heretofore were transcendent in the profession of Saintship, and now apostatised into Libertine and unnatural practices: the Apostle saith, he that provides not for his family hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel: here shalt thou see a father so far from providing for his dutiful children, that he strips them of all that which God hath given him, and gives it to strangers; the Apostle says of these latter days, that there shall be seducers, that shall creep into houses, and lead captive silly women, laden with sins, led away with divers lusts: here behold seducing women cunning in wickedness, creeping into a silly man's house, and leading him captive to their wicked purposes, and to his own and his families utter ruin. Stories make mention of certain Sea-Monsters whose upper parts are the resemblance of beautiful women, and the nether parts of an ugly fish, who by their melodious voices entice the unwary passengers to attention, and then suddenly seize and devour them; here behold two Land Sirens or monsters, being neither maids, wives, nor widows, having only the shape of women, charming with the music of their feigned speeches, a silly old man, and suddenly seizing and devouring both him and all his family. I do profess in the presence of God; I am not conscious to have set down one passage that I scruple the truth of it; to most of them I have been an Ocular witness. That which is most remote from my own knowledge hath several times been related to me by their own husbands. My intention in this publication is not to defame the parties herein concerned, but to discover the truth which by their feigned pretences and foul practices hath been grievously defamed: I have also considered, that haply this narrative may light into the hands of old Mr. Goodwin, and who can tell but when he shall see in this true glass his whole shape at once, and behold what a deformed Creature his sinful converse with these women hath made him; who can tell I say, but he that hitherto hath stood out against all the reproofs and admonitions of godly friends, and Ministers, professing that he valued their reproofs no more than the dirt under his feet, by the powerful assistance of the Spirit of God his secret thoughts may rebound within him, his heart throb, his bowels be moved, and he may smite upon the thigh, and say, what have I done? Reader, here thou wilt see a Land-wrack, where there are in these perilous times more rocks and quick sands then in the great Ocean, and all for want of minding the compass. Let it teach thee to keep to the rule of God's word, to grow in Grace, and to stand fast in sound principles, to stand amazed at thy own vileness and God's goodness, so wilt thou be humble and thankful, and be preserved from the snares of seducers.  
Farewell.   

MAster Wessell Goodwin, one of the principal subjects of this relation, was borne in the Borough of Southwark, where yet he liveth, bred up in the mystery of a Dier; of whose Descent and parentage I will not mention one word, that I may contract my discourse, keeping close to the subject I have undertaken. About the twenty sixth of his age, he married Mistress Ellenor Armstrong a Liecester shire Gentlewoman of an ancient honourable family, a woman of the most excellent frame of spirit that I ever met with, judicious, sober, virtuous, and above all, religious, a Charitable heart, that would seldom send away the poor without a double alms, relief for the body, and good counsel for the soul; that in some things seemed parsimonious, that on just occasions she might be the more liberal; that could finely divert her Husband from his follies, and yet give him all due respect; by her he hath four children, three sons, one daughter, all handsomely educated: for many years they continued in good correspondency of affection, till towards her latter days, that his folly would admit of no restraint.  
Amongst other extravagancies, he was ever strangely given to music, to which he had a ravenous appetite; five pounds for pricking out two or three lessons, which when he had, he understood like Arabic; thirty pounds for a Lute, of which he had with other sorts of fiddles, a whole room full; and which is the wonder, can ply of none, only admires them, ten pounds at a time to a music Master for a months teaching (or rather playing to him.) And as at Virginia Tobacco, and at the Barbadoss Sugar is put in the place of money, so many hundred weight for a field or a Cow, so doth he fondly thinks music to be that which answers all things. I'll give but one instance from an hundred, coming one day to see his Daughter Vernon, he used these words to her Husband, son, quoth he, I am sorry I cannot do for you as I would, I see you have a great charge, and trading is bad, which I do consider, and therefore will bestow upon my daughter a suit of Mr. Roger's his new lesons. I am sorry to spoil paper with such fooleries; but there is a necessity that the sequent truth may the better appear. I might add his training up all his children to music, and so far as they gave way to his musickal distemper, so far they were dutiful and obedient; so far as they slighted music, wicked and rebellious; for instance, his second son being intended (through his mother's importunity for a Prentice) accordingly he was put to an able writer to perfect his hand; but still he plies him to have a great care of his Lute, and would needs have brought him a music Master to the house where he boarded; and when by the youth and his son Vernon he was told he had music enough, and could not now so unseasonably attend so much music, he fell into a great rage against his said son Vernon, telling him he had Corrupted his son with his counsel, but should corrupt no more of his children.  
About the 58 year of his age, his virtuous wife fell sick of a painful disease contracted by melancholy, of which in a few months she died. I should not mention any of the private unkindnesses with which she long struggled, and at last sunk under, only this particular I may not omit.  
When she drew near her death, some few days before her departure, overhearing the music which was daily in the next room, she desired one of her sons to call in their father, to whom with a broken sad voice she said, Husband, you well know what a burden this excess of music hath been to me all my life; must that which hath been so much affliction to me in my life, be brought to my death bed? may I not die out of the noise of it? pray forbear, I have not many hours to live, and then you may have your fill of music. To which he replied not one word, but went out in discontent and so fell to his music again.  
The third day after, she departed this life; a little before her death she called to her her son in Law and daughter Vernon, desiring them amongst other requests to see to the Education of her two younget sons, the Eldest being a little before married to a virtuous maid of an honest and Religious Neighbour family, for which she much rejoiced, hoping that her eldest son now taken into partnership with his Father, and matched with a stayed discreet wife, the Old man would the more delight himself in his children and condition and take himself off from his extravagant music. To which purpose she then also desired her children to labour by all fair ways to take him off from that company, especially from the frequentation of Mr. Edward Jones; and that not so much out of dislike to him as to his wife, whom she saw to be a subtle undermining woman, that would be ready to make her own advantage of old Mr. Goodwin's weakness.  
I told you before, that the eldest son, Andrew Goodwin, was upon his marriage taken into partnership with his father, into a Stock of Eighteen hundred pounds, of which two thirds are the fathers, and one third the sons, as by Indenture appears: which partnership is to continue eighteen years: a little before Mr. Goodwin had cast up his estate, and found his neat stock to be two and twenty hundred pounds, a fine competency; though nothing to what he might have honestly raised out of his Trade (which for the quantity, I verily believe to be one of the best Dyers trades in England.) In this partnership it was agreed that Andrew Goodwin, being the better accountant, should keep the books, and cash, and look after the street business, and old Mr. Goodwin to follow the trade within doors; and so they began very comfortably together. About three months after Mrs. Goodwin's death, Mr. Goodwin going to see his son in Law and daughter Vernon, after some abrupt passages, he began to tell them that his house wanted aguide, and he had found a Godly woman that would be a fit wife for him; this he pretends to desire with much passion, when (as it now appears) he was sent by Mrs. Jones and Mrs. Pigeon her sister to act this cheat to delude the world: which is plain by what Mr. Pigeon hath affirmed under his hand and seal. Which attestation of Mr. Pigeon's lies deposited in the hands of Mr. Cooper Minister, and the Elders of the Parish of Olaf's Southwark; by which writing he affirms that long before, even in the life time of Mrs. Goodwin deceased, Mr. Goowdin had engaged to marry Mistress Jones.  
But this pretended passion lasts not long, for within ten days after Mr. Goodwin returns again to the house of his said son in Law, tells them, that he saw now that God had not appointed this match for him, but that God had provided for him a wife so eminent in Piety and wisdom, that his former wife deserved not to be named the same day. And when he was entreated by his said children to discover who this rare woman was, he utterly refused to reveal it; yet his daily converse and familiarity with Mrs Jones put them in strange thoughts; but still the business was to them but tanquam Nubibus, very dark, till time the Mother of truth hath made it more apparent and notorious, as by this ensuing discourse appears.  
Let the Reader note, that Mr. Goodwin is a member of Mr. Cooper's Congregation, Mrs. Jones a member of Mr. Kiffins Church, and Mrs Pigeon of Mr. Hansard Knowles.  
Now because Mrs. Pigeon is the chief agent and contriver in these sinful projects, I shall give this brief description of her: She is one that can transform herself into an angel of light, and having her tongue tipped with Scripture, can with tears, sighs, gesture at command, set off what she would have believed, as gospel, though very false, thereby to ensure such as harken to her charms; no sport to her like catching credulous persons with her fair saintlike expressions, making sure prey of all that she can thus draw into her toils; and so implacabe, that when she hath once got an advantage, nothing shall satisfy her but the utmost rigour, which she will rise at midnight to prosecute. This finely qualified Gentlewoman was wife to Mr. Starkey an apothecary; but she soon (as is believed) woried him out of the world with her wicked imperious usage; She had by him (as is thought) one child, and a fair estate. After a while she marries with second husband, one Mr. Pigeon, a Lieutenant in the then Lieutenant general Cromwell's regiment. Shortly after her marriage with Mr. Pigeon, she returns to her old imperious carriage, as will appear by this story. She asks Mr. Pigeon what he would do with his estate, if he should die? he says, he hopes to have children by her; she replies, she hopes he loves her so well that he will trust her with his children, and presses him to promise, that if he die he will give her all: he endeavours in a loving way to divert her; but she insists peremptorily in her resolution to make him swear to give her all; which he still refusing, she absolutely refuses to admit him as a husband: and yet to work him to her purpose, did behave herself very amorously towards him, and besides her personal allurements did many times urge him to drink aqua coelestis, vinum viperatum compounded with provocative drugs, and many other provocative meats and drinks for many days together, promising him that if he would swear as aforesaid, she would be to him according to his own heart: yet did he for good reasons still refuse to consent, and she still pursues him, till one morning practising the very height of amorous behaviour towards him, and yet peremptorily refusing him, unless he would swear, he fell into such a passion, and was so transported, that he became altogether senseless, feeble and irrational, so that she feared he would never return to his reason again; in which condition she then besought him for Christ's sake to speak to her as formerly: but all in vain, for he was no ways sensible of what he said or did. She now much affrighted at this strange accident, applies herself to one Doctor Burges a Physician, who coming to him in that condition, gave him two vomits in one day, which through excessive straining brought him even to the point of death: yet after being a little recovered, and his understanding somewhat returning, he besought God that he might regain his understanding; which it pleased God to restore him, though he remained a good space very feeble. In this condition he said one day these words to her, Sweet heart, thou hast often told me that thy love to me was greater than to thy former husband? didst thou ever deal by him after this manner? she then terrified in conscience, said indeed she served him so once, restraining him her company so long till he committed a sin, for which he was tormented in his conscience, and fell into such an agony that as she then said, she thought he would have died. She then promised the said Mr. Pigeon never to do the like again: she said, that by this carriage of hers she procured of Mr. Starky to give her all his estate except some trifling legacies, and made no provision for his child: yet at his death he framed a new Will, wherein he otherwise disposed of his estate; which last Will she found means to nullify, by pleading that he died Non compos mentis.  
Notwithstanding all this, she after a while returns to her old practices, and so wrought with Mr. Pigeon at the last, to part with his estate to her, as is well known, and did yet after this run away from him, and then again after a while returned; and thus would she frequently do according as the dictates of her unconstant mind and her projects led her.  
Now we must return to Mistress Jones, whose turn must now be served. She must be freed from her husband, that so she may be free for old Mr. Goodwin, who is now so taken with her, that he can enjoy himself nowhere but in her company: scarce one day in the week but he is at her house, spending his time in dalliance with her. And Mr. Pigeon affirms, that about the year 1646. sojorning then in the house of his Brother Jones, he set himself to observe their carriage, and at one time he saw Mistress Jones take Mr. Goodwin about the neck and kiss him: at another time, being (as they thought) in private, he saw her take Mr. Goodwins hand, and putting it under her apron, holding it against the bottom of her belly, with many repeated mutual kisses, she saying, oh my dear Love! At which Mr. Pigeon being much scandalised to see his Sister Jones so behave herself to Mr. Goodwin, she being a married woman, and her husband in the house, went presently and told his wife what he had seen, and that he would tarry there no longer, for that he believed the house was a Bawdy house, and that her Sister Jones was Mr. Goodwin's whore. Mistress Pigeon perceiving they were discovered to her husband, told him then that indeed Mr. Goodwin was a suitor to her Sister Jones, and that she would make it a match. She then also told him that Mr. Jones was no longer her sister's husband before God, but had forfeited his right in her: she then affirmed to him also, that Mr. Goodwin of a long time had been a great friend to her sister, and had given her several sums of money, thirty pounds at a time: All which passages Mr. Pigeon in presence of good witnesses hath offered to make oath of before any Magistrate.  
Now the Lute and the Lute Master is quite laid aside, Mr. Goodwin speaks not one word more of music; he hath found another manner of Lute that is easier to play on, which he had been long before a turning; And Mr. Pigeon having with his estate divested himself of his authority, must now seem to like of all his projecting wife doth, that so at any rate he may buy his peace. He is (as I said) entertained, and with Mr. Knowles, called to counsel: Mr. Jones must now be turned off, and to that purpose a writing is drawn by Knowles; and having notice that Mr. Jones is at the Ram inn in Smithfield teaching a scholar on the Lute, Knowles comes up, asks him if he be the man; which being acknowledged, he shows him the bill of Divorce, and after that he had briefly informed him that he hath forfeited his interest in his wife, bids him without more ado set his hand and seal to the bill of Divorce. Where note, that Mr. Jones, having lived 16 or 18 years in lawful wedlock with his wife, by whom he hath five children alive, yet upon the sole information of his wife, without any judicial examination or process, must be divorced. Mr. Jones astonished at this strange greeting, asks him by what authority he could make divorces between man and wife? but Mr. Knowles would not debate the matter, but peremptorily bids him sign, or he would fetch authority from the counsel of State to compel him. Mr. Jones moved at this insolent language, tells him he would not subscribe; and that if he departed not speedily, he would kick him down stairs: away runs M. Knowles in a great fright to acquaint his Clients with his success. Mr. Jones returning home, Mrs. Pigeon falls to threatening of him. Mr. Jones, that could not endure to be so abused in his own house, bids her depart his house; she replies with insolent language, and he replies to her with kicks in the breech, and by force turns her out of doors presently. She finds out Mr. Pigeon, who to be out of the sight of the wickedness he daily saw at his brother Jones his house, had taken a chamber in Woodstreet, where he had often desired his wife to remain with him; but she refused, and commands were now out of season. Mrs. Pigeon coming as aforesaid to her husband, aggravates with all her cunning the violence Mr. Jones had done her. Mr. Pigeon, ●hat was now throughly sensible of his wives insolent behaviour, and his brother Jones his being most injuriously dealt withal, and all to gratify a silly old man, and a covetous naughty woman, tells his wife that he would not meddle in the business, and that he had often warned her to depart her brother Jones his house, where there was no reason she should abide against his consent, to make breach between man and wife. Away she flings in a rage, and to be brief, enters an action against her brother Jones in her husband's name, though without his consent and knowledge, of 500l. and never rests until she have lodged Mr. Jones in the Counter: and this not only for revenge, but to mortify him, and make him fit to set his hand to the bill of Divorce, which at last he submits to, or to something equivalent.  
About this time, whether for plotting or rejoicing I know not, but there was a merry meeting at Mr. Pigeon's. chamber, Mrs. Pigeon and her good sister Jones are come, and all wait for Mr. Goodwin to pass away the time, Mrs. Pigeon falls a jeering of her husband, who discontented at these doings was walking too and fro in the chamber: sister (quoth Mrs. Pigeon) doth not my husband look a little like my brother Jones? yes indeed doth he, quoth she; he prays them to forbear, and in the mean time up comes old Mr. Goodwin with a fine white capon under his arm: as he enters the room, Mrs. Jones flies to him, throwing herself into his arms, saying, Mr. Goodwin, Mr. Jones and I am now parted for ever, and you must keep me. The poor deluded old man being overjoyed, takes her in his arms, tells her, it was the best news to him that ever came to town, and that he would provide for her, with more to that purpose. Mr. Pigeon stands in admiration at these doings; at the last breaks out into these words; Now quoth he, I see the cause my brother Jones was put into the Counter: when Mrs. Pigeon, enraged at her husband's plain dealing, tells him he is as bad as his brother Jones, and therefore takes his part; saying, you are, you are, many times over. Mrs. Jones, in imitation of her sister, and Mr. Goodwin in imitation of his sweetheart Mrs. Jones, join with her in the same expressions, with their fists bent against his face. Mr. Pigeon overcome with their uncivil revilings, after several admonitions to no purpose, was fain with some blows to correct their folly, and thrust them all down stairs headlong. Mr. Goodwin coming home to his house, where he had now been a long time missing, and being by his neighbours demanded where he got his black face, tells them, it was only a violent fit of the tooth ache; when as for some years before he had not one tooth in his head, at least visible. And as mischiefs seldom come alone, shortly after this combat, as Mr. Goodwin is coming from Mrs. Jones house to his own, in the dead of the night, he is again assaulted in Bartholomew lane, and grievously beaten: some say, it was Mr. Jones, some say Mr. Pigeon; but by whom is not perfectly known: as soon as he got quit of his enemy, in stead of going home to his own family, he returns back to Mrs. Jones, well knowing in whose quarrel he had received those sore buffetings: it was fit she should see what a martyr he was for her sake. There he lay about ten days in a sad condition, but the joy of Mrs. Jones company made him forget his pain, and sped the cure, which else might have been dangerous. Amongst them, (to salve his reputation) they give out, that a horse had thrown him down, and trampled upon him.  
Mr. Jones being now released prison, it is first agreed between him and his late wife, that she shall depart the house and leave him with the children and goods; she departs for a fortnight into the country, at her return (knowing his hours of absence) when he was abroad teaching his scholars, she comes privily in with her maid, a bold wench for her turn, and secretly carries away all the best linen and goods of value, leaving the poor man with all his children in an empty house, and all this still she did to bring him to her own conditions; which were, that he should depart the City, and so leave her free to the embraces of old Mr. Goodwin. She long before, with her sister Pigeon, often solicited him to go beyond seas, alleging to him how bravely he might live there, and what money he might get by his faculty of playing on the Lute; which he would not harken to then, but is now compelled to depart the City, stripped of wife, children, estate, carrying away nothing but the bare clothes on his back, and all to give place to an old man's lust, and a naughty woman's covetousness.  
Before his departure, he in private expostulates the matter with Mr. Goodwin, asks him what wrong he had ever done him, that he should deal so perfidiously by him, to draw his wife out of his bosom? and with what conscience, and by what law he could contract himself to his wife, he being yet alive? at the first the seduced old man denies it, but having proved to him how he had sundry times found him kissing her, and at one time with his hand under her apron, and that he had also by Will given her all, or the greatest part of his estate, which he could prove by the party that drew the Will, the old man at last convinced, confesses the Will, and the contract, adding, he might lawfully do so, Mr. Jones having (as he affirmed) forfeited his right as a husband to her.  
Here I must make a short digression, to inform the Reader, what ground Mrs. Jones alleges for her separation from her husband, which I received from Mr. Jones his mouth.  
Coming home one day, and finding his wife very fine, ready to go abroad, he asks her whither she was going? she tells him to see such a friend: He replies, wife, you know I would not have you converse with that woman. She tells him violently she would go; he tells her, if she go, he will never come in bed with her more, and this with some rash asseveration.  
Away she goes, the poor man in much trouble, goes abroad again amongst his scholars, and coming home at night, finds his wife very strange: when bed time came on, thinking to go to bed with his wife, she bids him remember his vow, which she would take order he should never break: and so to this day would never more admit him as a husband. Since she gives out, that he hath committed folly, which she pretends she can prove: for my part, I believe it a scandal devised, the better to accomplish her wicked project with Mr. Goodwin.  
But to return; away goes Mr. Jones to Norwich, where he hath ever since remained in very honest repute lamented of all that hear his sad story.  
I told you before, that at his departure he left her all his estate; amongst other, he had a Lease of some houses in St. John's street, worth about 25l. per annum; he tells her, that in respect she keeps the children, he is content she should receive this rent towards their maintenance; and accordingly being now at Norwich, sends the acquittances quarterly to one Mr. Fletcher, a discreet friend of his, to deliver them to Mrs. Jones: but she refuses them, goes to the tenants with old Mr. Goodwin, and in her own name demands the rent, offering her acquittance for their discharge; which they refuse as insufficient: yet at last yield to pay her, she mentioning in their acquittance, For the use of my husband Edward Jones: but she rather than by such acquittances she should acknowledge Mr. Jones her husband, from whom she now accounts herself divorced, refuseth; and so the rent for this four years hath lain dead in the tenant's hands. Indeed she hath often threatened them, but when that would not prevail, she let it rest, well knowing Mr. Goodwin hath enough, whose purse is free to her use.  
Immediately before that Mr. Jones went away, that she might have a sure intelligencer at Mr. Goodwins house, she puts her son, of about 14. years of age, under the colour of a prentice to Mr. Goodwin, utterly against his father's consent, who was very desirous to have put the boy to some trade suitable to his strength, being a weak limbed child: but she was violent, and would not neglect any means that might carry on her project; she and her sister Pigeon were resolved to come in after themselves, and therefore it was needful (as thieves usually do) to thrust in a little thief at the window to make way for the great ones. This boy (being a fly youth) serves for a little Mercury, to carry messages, appoint meetings, betray the young man, and is frequently found behind the door listening what passages pass between the old man and his children, who persuade him against these women, and desire him not to entertain this boy, that was unserviceable for his trade? but all in vain, for Mrs. Jones her will is a Law, and now is Mr. Goodwin at her house night and day, at rack and manger; all the town rings of their scandalous converse: but he is so bewitched with her, that as it is reported of leprous persons, into whose flesh you may thrust needles to the head, and they feel nothing; so though reproof, admonitions, prayers, from children, neighbours, Justices, Ministers, assault him daily, yet he is insensible of all.  
His own Minister Mr. Cooper, a judicious, learned, tender-hearted Christian, labours much with him, sets the scandal notably before him; and at last thinking thereby to awaken him (all other means having proved uneffectual) with the consent of the Eldership suspends him from the Sacrament, which he values so little, that to this day he so continues, without so much as once desiring to be restored, professing his conscience is clear, and that he values the reproofs of Ministers no more than the dirt under his feet: Thus he goes on from bad to worse, and when he wants money to supply Mrs. Jones and his own irregular expenses, he goes to the merchants, takes up several sums of money, 100l. at a time, never acquaints his son, whose business it was to receive the debts, and so brings him into confusion in his accounts: at other times takes up stuffs upon credit, wherewith he cloaths Mrs. Jones and all her children, carries them in coach out of the town, there they revel for whole weeks together, Mr. Goodwin pays all. Now these good sisters possess him at their pleasure, and ply him daily to beware of his children, tell him what a shame it were for so wise a man as he is to take counsel of his cradle, these are their very words; and that his children would govern him as if he were a very child, when as they affirm to him, that there hath not lived a wiser man than he since King Solomon.  
Thus they cajole and inveigle a most pitiful weak man, who is so taken with these dissembling women, that he accounts it his greatest preferment to wait upon them up and down the town like a halfpenny serving man, and when he comes near them, can scarce speak for joy, and seldom comes to them without some present for back or belly.  
A discreet friend of mine affirmed to me that he saw one evening Mr. Goodwin going into Paul's ally; and that as soon as he was entered, he saw the transported old man fall a-dancing, and capering, that he protested he thought he had been distraught: The neighbours that have daily seen him come into the ally, observe, that as soon as he is entered, he falls a smiling; nor have they been wanting to reprove them to their faces, telling Mrs. Jones, that it was a shame they should converse so scandalously; but that the truth was, he loved her for her smooth flesh, and she him for his full purse: the very children have taken notice of their behaviour. A little girl of about four years of age, daughter to one Mr. Cherry, is sent by her mother to Mrs. Jones of an errand; at her return she tells her mother, old Mr. Goodwin is there, and that she saw him put up his hand under her smock sleeve up to her shoulders, playing and tickling her, when as modest Mrs. Jones cries, Away Mr. Goodwin, take away your hand, or I will make you no more pie-ale: a maid servant to Mr. Wright told me, that there was a voice heard in their house, saying, Mary Mason, my sister and I intend to lie a-bed to morrow all the forenoon, if anybody come, let in nobody into my chamber unless it be honest Mr. Goodwin.  
Now Mrs. Jones, that licks her lips at profit, not at the withered old-man's kisses, casts about how she may make all yet surer; now she accounts all the old man's estate hers, and therefore plots how she may improve it, and prevent any disappointment from his children; she causes Mr. Goodwin to send frequently to her his chief journyman, one Anthony Rawlins, that all along had been pimp major to this villainy; he gives her account of the trade and custom, how it is, and how it might be managed: for these services the old man lets him filch what veils he will: This knave seconds the old man's report, that his son is an ill husband, that will bring all to ruin: this alarms Mrs. Jones, who hath now no visible subsistence but Mr. Goodwins estate; she was, for some years before her husband's departure a schoolemistris, teaching needle works, but he once gone, all that was presently laid aside.  
Here observe, that Mrs. Jones and her sister have by this time made all Mr. Goodwins family of their confederacy excepting the young man, and his wife, and one Roger Crey, the eldest prentice, an honest, religious, sober fellow, that had often spoken freely and heartily against their practices, professing that these women would ruin the family.  
It pleased God that this fellow fell sick, when presently the two sisters are sent for, they physic him, he grows worse; young Mr. Goodwin entreats his father that some able Physician might be advised withal; the old man refuses to give his consent, boasting highly of the great skill of those two she. Doctors: in Conclusion, the young man doubting some false play, privately carries his water to an able Physician, Doctor Burnet; at the first sight of the water he tells him, the party was a dead man, past all recovery; and that if good help had been sought in time, in all probability he might have done well. Mr. Clarke a skilful Apothecary on the Bridge is also consulted, and he affirms the same. Still these women ply him with their drugs, telling his Mr. there was no danger; though he lies raging in the violence of a burning fever, in all probability caused by the contrary medicines they had administered to him. The evening before his death, the two sisters come in their hackney coach and make new applications to the poor departing man, who so long as he had his senses, had earnestly begged of his Mr. that he might take nothing that came from them, well knowing how they hated him; yet never could obtain any succour but what came from their hands: which what it was I leave to God and their own consciences. In the best construction that can be made, they did very wickedly, to trifle away a man's life, being ignorant of his disease; and in that consideration, if no other, are guilty of his blood, which God will one day make inquisition for, and avenge. That night they sat up in the hall with a good fire and ale, to see what would become of him, and about three of the clock he departed: when, whether terrified with the guilt of what they had done, or what other consideration, but presently they took coach and departed, though in the dead of the night. Some month after young Mrs. Goodwin died, a virtuous young woman, whose sickness occasioned more visits from these good Ladies, and might have done more physic; but they were now out of credit, and her parents watc'ht diligently that she should take nothing that came from them. It is generally believed that she died of grief, having her heart broke by the occasion of the practices of these women. In my hearing she hath often made bitter complaints, saying, these women had disgraced the family, and would be the ruin both of her husband and father in law.  
Now the project thrives apace, two of their great opposers are by death removed out of the way, there remains only the young man to be dispossessed, and then all is their own: in order to which, they first order the old man to tell his son, that his family wants a guide, and that he is resolved to bring Mrs. Jones to take charge of his family. The young man in a great deal of distraction acquaints his friends with this news, and according to their advice, endeavours to persuade his father by fair means not to disgrace the family by bringing in a woman that was reported to be his whore; and seeing his father persist, that he would bring her in, tells him plainly that he hath an interest both in the stock and trade, as well as his father, and that seeing her coming in tends to the ruin of both, he is resolved to oppose it, and if she comes, to thrust her out by head and shoulders. This the old man reports back again, and they are for the present at a loss.  
You may wonder that active Mrs. Pigeon hath been so little mentioned all this while; but she is not idle but hath her irons in the fire, she sees how successfully her sister Jones with a little of her help, hath rid herself of her husband, and therefore now she plots how to shake off also her shackles of matrimony. You may remember that Mr. Pigeon, to satisfy her violent importunity, had made over to her all his estate, which was very great; well thinking by such an unparalleled act of love to bind her to him in duty and affection for ever; but what can oblige such savage natures? she returns to her old disobedience as before you have in part heard. It was a common practice with her, if at any time he refused to act her wicked projects, to run away from him sometime for a week, sometime for a month: amongst other of her devices, it being immediately after the late King's death, she makes show of much discontent against the actings of the present Governors; she projects to her husband to draw up a declaration against them, and their proceedings, which he must subscribe and avow, and then he should be her dear husband, and she vows to stand by him to the last in it. Let others think their pleasure, for my part, I believe this was a plot laid to have destroyed Mr. Pigeon; but he wisely refused to act in it, reproving her pragmatical spirit, for which she vows to be revenged of him: then Mr. Knowles is sent for, who according to her instructions had framed a bill of divorce, which he then persuaded Mr. Pigeon to subscribe, alleging he might lawfully in the sight of God do it, and at last did prevail with him to subscribe. Not long after Mr. Pigeon is again reconciled to his wife, and Mrs. Pigeon did then also subscribe two writings with her hand and seal, which Mr. Pigeon hath still by him, wherein she covenants to forget all former discord, and to be to him a loving and dutiful wife; yet after this she ran away several times, and began now to fall into intimate acquaintance with a merchant living at Clapham, from whose company to this day Mr. Pigeon could never reclaim her: Sometime she would come and stay a week, and then to this Merchant again, and though Mr. Pigeon did before good witness upon the Exchange admonish the said Merchant to abandon her company, and gave him reasons which did induce him to think that she was the said Merchants whore, yet they still persist in their familiarity: now Mr. Pigeon being commanded into the Isle of Jarsey, at his return, his wife being lately delivered, they were again with much ado reconciled, yet was her old project still on foot; for Mr. Pigeon having one night got cold by his careful tending of the child, he said to her, sweetheart, I fear I shall have the Gout, for I have a pain in my wrist that shoots into my finger; she presently with violence affirms, that it was the Pox: he persuades her, and she opposes, and at last resolves to send for Mr. Knowles to be advised by him. Mr. Pigeon the next day meeting casually Mr. Knowles, acquaints him with their difference, tells him if he will come and endeavour to persuade his wife to reason, he would take it kindly: Mr. Knowles replies, it was Mrs. Pigeon's custom first to resolve upon things, and then to ask counsel; and further said to Mr. Pigeon, that he need not think Mrs. Pigeon spent his money upon him, for he had never received but five pounds for himself, and five shillings for the poor of their Congregation; he said, if Mr. Pigeon would be at home that evening, he would come and endeavour to persuade her; which accordingly he did. Mrs. Pigeon conducts him into an upper chamber from her husband, where they were together about half an hour, and then came down together into the room where he remained; and she then began to make grievous complaints, insisting chiefly on two heads, viz. that he had the pox, and that she was in fear of her life. He then asked her what ground she had for it, and if he had threatened her since he came home? she replied, he had not, but that he had a pain in his arm, which she knew was the pox. Mr. Knowles said, that he had a pain in his arm, and she might as well say so by him; and added, that she was his wife, or else she was a whore. She still insists; she was afraid, and could not be satisfied. Mr. Pigeon mildly said thus to Mr. Knowles, Sir, you hold my wife too hard, she pretends I have the pox; if you think fit, we will presently send for two able Physicians, and I will submit to a search. Mr. Knowles replies, he spoke fairly: yet seeing this would not satisfy, Mr. Knowles frames a speech in this manner, Mr. Pigeon, pray take my advice, and go from your wife, and I will warrant you she will send for you again. Mr. Pigeon amazed at this advice, replies, God hath given me counsel in his word, that every man should have his own wife, and every woman her own husband, to avoid evil; and I cannot leave God's counsel to take yours. He replies, in some cases a man might leave his wife: Mr. Pigeon answers again, there must be a joint consent of both parties, and he being the chief cannot consent. Mr. Knowles again and again presses him to go from her. Mr. Pigeon tells him, I will not leave God's counsel to take yours: and if this be your counsel, pray depart the house.  
Mr. Knowles presently in discontent goes down the stairs. Mrs. Pigeon endeavours to run after him, crying out, Mr. Knowles, Take him with you, Take him with you. Mr. Pigeon takes hold of his wife's skirt, and entreats her with all gentleness to be ruled; Mr. Knowles comes up the stairs again, lays violent hold of Mr. Pigeon, wringing him by the finger to make him let go his wise: but not so prevailing, (there having not as yet past one blow) he lays down his Claoke, and running to Mr. Pigeon, catches him by the throat, stirkes twice at his face with his fist, calling him base unworthy fellow; and still sorely pinched his throat. Then Mr. Pigeon by violence throws off Mr. Knowles, who feeling him too strong for him, runs down the stairs, calling to his assistance many rude persons, who violently laid hold of the said Mr. Pigeon, his wife taking part against him: Being thus invaded, he had no other way but by violence; many strokes lighted upon his wife: and he professeth that he was so transported by this strange provocation, that he can scarce give account of what he did, until he had quitted the room of these people: amongst the rest, in this medley, Mrs. Pigeon hath got a strange black face, which by her art she yet makes more visible, and then with Mr. Knowles and several other persons, she applies herself to the then Lord General, screwing her wits to the utmost to work revenge: and in fine, so endeavoured with her smooth tongue, that she procured to have her said husband dismissed the Army: since which time she hath lived in constant separation from her husband.  
Now is Mistress Pigeon's work done, and she at leisure to act in her sister Jones business, who (as I told you) was at a plunge, by reason of the short-answer young Mr. Goodwin had given his Father. But Mrs. Pigeon, (to whom no villainy is difficult) relieves her: they presently conclude upon this plot, Mr. Goodwin hath a younger Son, James Goodwin, a weak headed child, about seventeen years of age; him they get into their Circle; and first they be labour the simple boy with their sophisticated arguments, and gain him a proselyte to their tenants: now he is maillable. In brief, they presently clap up a Match between this boy, that a little before was intended for a prentice, and Mistress Jones her daughter, a girl of about fifteen years old, but so small, that she looked more like one of eight or nine at the most. After short wooing, they are married together. This was a strong subtle device, worth Mistress Pigeon's Invention. By this match Mr. Goodwin and his concubine are become brothers and sisters, and who can find fault at decent familiarity between such? By this the women have got an interest in the estate and family, that they dare own to the world, which they durst not before: This brings them boldly into the house to reside; Mrs. Jones pretending that because her daughter is such a child, she hath the more need of a guide. In a word, this device draws a fair skin over a great many scabby places at once; and so they without any more Ceremony all enter the house, bringing all their children and retinue with them.  
Mrs. Pigeon is so taken with her policy, that at her first arrival, walking alone up and down the yard, she was heard to say to herself aloud, So, now I have broke the ice. And now seeing the game so fair before her, she resolves to have share herself: and therefore whereas before Mr. Goodwin had by Will given Mrs. Jones 1000l. Mr. Goodwin directed to Mr. Colborn, Mrs. Pigeon's Secretary and fast friend, when a new Will is framed, by which he only gives her 500l.  
Now they are settled with their families, and Mr. Goodwin is so ravished, that he hath got his brace of Mandlins' so near him, that no ground can hold him. The only thing that yet hinders, is, that Mr. Goodwins eldest son and partner is still in the house, and hath a clear interest in the Estate and Tarde, and they have resolved that nothing less than all shall satisfy their wicked appetites; in order to whose casting out, they had therefore some months before appointed the old man to set an accountant of their own at work, to make up all accounts between father and son, who by the instructions given him, had brought in the balance or net stock, all debts paid, to be 1516l. of which, as they order it, there is coming to Andrew Goodwin for his third part, only 150l. They give out that by his ill husbandry he hath brought the estate to this; and that there was more assigned him by the account then his due. Whereas it is constantly believed by all the friends and neighbours, that for one shilling the son hath wasted, the father hath wasted three; who could not be accused of any other vice or unthriftiness, but that when he saw his father would not be reclaimed from converse with these wicked women, on whom he visibly spent his own and his son's estate; when he saw that his father by taking up money and wares in a disorderly way had brought him into confusion in his accounts, and that his father in all places where he came was so evil spoken of for his shameful scandalous frequentation of these wicked women, unable to bear up under such a burden, he gave up himself to melancholy and careless stupidity, that he let his books run into some disorder; of which (as you shall see) they make notable advantage.  
And therefore now Mrs. Pigeon assisted with Mr. Goodwin, draws up a note; which before witness she delivers to young Mr. Goodwin, therewith charging him within fourteen days to depart the house: which when he had perused, he demanded of her, by what authority she could war him out of his house? She replied, it would be his best way to depart without dispute, for as she then told him, she had never yet undertaken any design but she brought it to perfection.  
Presently (in the young man's absence) she causes the old man (who did nothing but by her order) to bring in a Smith; him she in old Mr. Goodwins name commands to break open the young man's counting house, takes away all his papers and moneys: from thence they ascend to his chamber, break open his trunk, take away what they please, and while the young man amazed, is considering what to do, the fourteen days expire. They presently in the old man's name enter an action against him, and at one of the clock after midnight they send forth their property James Goodwin to fetch two bailiffs of the Borough, and two Sergeants which they had prepared, and bring them over the ditch as thieves into the house, where they find the unnatural old man with these women waiting, who presently set them to work: The poor young man not dreaming of such barbarous villainy▪ was fast asleep in his bed. Having furnished them with an iron crow, they all ascend, and presently fall to forcing open his chamber door: the young man awakened with the noise, thinks no other but that it was thieves breaking in to murder him, flies to the window, cries out murder, and then presently sets agreat chest against the door: which when they could not force, the bailiffs being at a stand, Mrs. Pigeon, (that gives all directions) cries, Mr. Goodwin, it is your own house, you may bid them break down the wall: which the simple old wretch bid them do. The young man in amazement, perceiving they had made a breach in the wall, and having no weapon to defend himself, and now seeing they were Officers, suffers them to enter, and so they seize him, violently haling him away in the dead of the night. Which was those subtle womens' policy, fearing in the day time, had they done this devilish action, they might have been by the neighbours thrown into the ditch headlong.  
Away goes the old man with Mrs. Pigeon to the bridge foot, where with the City Sergeants they wait the bailiffs, who had promised to deliver him at the bridge foot: But the bailiffs, sensible that they had done that already which they could not justify, would gratify them no further, but carry him prisoner to St. Margaret's Hill.  
Young Mr. Goodwin in this distress, seeing all tending to ruin, and that these women were resolved to cozen father, children, and creditors of all, bethinks himself of one Mr. Henry cross, to whom he owed 500l; to him he confesses a Judgement, which Mr. cross presently executes, enters the house, seizes the goods, and carries away to the value of about 1000l. to St. Margaret's Hill.  
Now these cunning women are again at a plunge, but Mr. Colborne their sure friend rescues them: by his advice they procure two Appraisers, who are instructed, and appraise these goods but at 403l. which money Mr. Colborne lays down, being indeed Mrs. Pigeon's money, having the managing of all her estate. This money paid into the bailiffs hands, the goods are released, and returned to Mr. Goodwin's possession. And now being attentive to all advantages, finding they had been surprised by this Judgement, to stop all gaps for the future, they fall upon a new design to make all sure for ever. The old man must confess a Judgement for all that he hath in the world; but to whom? This monster could not be brought forth by women; Mr. Colborne must be the man midwife; in short, Mr. Goodwin confesses a judgement, and Mrs. Pigeon having first turned the old man and all his servants out of doors, she before witness seized of all for the use of Mr. Henry Colborne formally, and for herself and Sister Jones virtually.  
And now all is secure, and the plot they had been seven years' hatching is now perfected: as for the 403l deposited in the bailiffs hands, they find means by Mr. Colbornes' help to procure that: in regard young Mr. Goodwin hath but a third share in the stock, therefore Mr. cross the Creditor shall receive but the third of the 403l. seized, and so by order of Court Mr. cross receives his third, 134l, and the two thirds return to Mr. Colborne.  
Thus are Mr. Goodwin, Father and Son, brought to a morsel of bread, neither having one penny left. But Mr. Goodwin the father is taken into his late house, as a poor jorneyman to Mr. Colborne; and which is to amazement, so far from being sensible of what he hath done, that he proclaims to all comers that he had rather be Mrs. Pigeon's Journyman, then to be Master of all without his two women.  
The young man's children being in the house, are turned out of doors, and old Mr. Goodwin (by order of Mrs. Pigeon) forbids all his children (the young traitor James Goodwin excepted) to come upon the ground: His daughter Vernon coming one day to see him, by Mrs. Pigeon's command, he takes her by the arm, and thrusts her out of doors: and now they insult and vaunt beyond measure. Old Mr. Goodwin's children seeing all ruined, and that their father is now captivated more than ever to these women, they jointly present a petition to the Justices of the County and Borough of South-wark, representing therein their sad condition; from whom they obtain a warrant to bring these women before them to St Margaret's Hill; where the business being debated, Mr. Goodwin was seriously reproved and admonished to forsake the scandalous company of these women: but the debate growing long, and it being late, the Justices adjourned the meeting, and hearing of this business to the next week after. When being again met, and some new Justices that had not heard the former debate, amongst the rest, Mr. Gold of Clapham appears, and is very eager in the vindication of these women, especially of Mrs. Pigeon, whom he says was a most Angelical woman, and that she could discourse to admiration: and he said that this prosecution of Mr. Goodwins children was but a rage of jealousy for matter of estate, and that the whole army of England should maintain the reputation of these Gentlewomen: these were his words. Some other of the Justices insisted to have Mr. Goodwins children produce their proofs of what they had alleged in their petition: to which they replied, their witnesses were ready, but would not appear, unless they were summoned by order of Law, left they should incur trouble from these Litigious women; the Justices upon debate finding the witnesses living for the most part in Red Cross Street, out of their Jurisdiction to summon them, they dismissed the business with only an admonition to old Mr. Goodwin, to forsake the company of these women so prejudicial to his reputation.  
Thus in all they prospered: only the several Churches to which they are related, that knew their shifts, which were now become very scandalous to their Congregations, after several admonitions to them to forsake this scandalous society, and all in vain, they cast them out of their Churches and all communion with them. Since which time I cannot learn that they own any Church at all, but for the most part spend the Sabbath at the die house.   

A POSTSCRIPT to old Mr. Goodwin.  
BEfore I conclude, I would lay a few considerations before you; though I have very little encouragement, you have with so much scorn rejected the admonitions of godly Ministers and others, that it will be no wonder if all I can say make no impression. Yet who knows not that the Instrument as well as the season is in God's hand? And therefore I will now speak my whole heart to you, and I pray God set it home to your thoughts. You are now arrived at old age, about sixty three, as I guess; the holy Ghost saith, grey hairs are a crown, if they be found in the ways of righteousness: and on the contrary, that a sinner of an hundred years old shall not escape unpunished; consider then first, what God hath done for you, what a wife did he bless you withal, a woman for piety, wisdom, fidelity, frugality (I am confident) hardly to be matched, though your dalilah's have sought to asperse her; but they do but heave stones in the air, which will fall on their own heads: for while her body lies rotting in the ground, her name yields a sweet savour in the hearts of all God's people that knew her, while these stink above ground. And she came not to you empty handed, but brought you a good estate, when you had little or nothing to take to; by her God hath given you four dutiful children, and so they appear to all that know them, though you most unworthily call them wicked Cham's and rebels:  
For your daughter Vernon, name the time that ever she disobeyed your lawful commands; how many times hath she upon her knees begged of you to forsake the company of these women, whose evil fame hath blasted your former good name? how many hours hath she spent on her knees in begging of God to open your eyes?  
For your son Andrew, how many men would have been proud of such a son; though there were no more than his outward shape? and never could be taxed for any miscarriage till you gave up yourself wholly to company with these women, who with all their art and malice have daily exasperated you against him: which behoved them to do, well knowing that he being your partner in Trade, there would be the less hopes for them, while there remained any good Correspondence between him and you: and when you were thus whetted, you would come home and revile him with most unmanly terms before all the boys, enough to break a stronger tempered spirit then his; and when you had so far dulled and sotted him with this usage, that you thought your project ripe, then on the sudden you take him by the throat like a felon or murderer: oh Mr. Goodwin, are these things true or no? I appeal to your own conscience; where were the bowels of a father, when you let in the marshal's men at midnight, furnished them with iron bars, and accompanied with your women, broke in upon him in his chamber, and scarce allowing him time to put on his clothes, dragged him to the jail in the dead of a cold winter's night?  
For your second son Thomas, an honest plain hearted man, beloved of all that know him; and yet because he will not justify you in your sin against his own conscience, but hath in a dutiful manner begged of you to forsake these women, you refuse to own him, and tell him you will never leave him one penny.  
And for your third son James, you have done him the greatest wrong of all: for, that he might as a property be instrumental to your sin, you have caused, or suffered your women to poison his principles with their corrupt tenants; you have betrayed him yet a child, and most shamefully unfit for such a relation, to marriage with the daughter of her, that hath ruined your name and estate.  
Thus in particular have you wronged all your children, and in general by making over all your estate, which by the Law of God and nature ought to have descended after your decease to them, to Mr. Colborne.  
Solomon saith, that the good man is merciful to his beast: and Mr. Goodwin (whom his women affirm is as wise as Solomon) is unmerciful to his own children. The Apostle saith, No man hates his own flesh are you (Mr. Goodwin) no man? or will you make the holy Ghost a liar? And what hath been the incentive to all this unnatural dealing? your love, or your lust to Mrs. Jones; you can name no other; that you might enjoy her, another man's wife, her husband alive. You have stifled your conscience, scandalised the Gospel, reviled God's Ministers, suffered yourself to be cut off from the Sacrament and Communion with the Church of God, ruined all your children, and basely requited your virtuous wife deceased: and all this to gratify two sinful women, that now they have obtained their ends, begin to slight you, and no doubt when through the infirmities of old age you shall be able to do them no more druggery, will cast you off and expose you to want and misery. This all the world foresees; for women of their profession do always so. Did not Mrs. Pigeon, when she had stripped her husband of all he had, cast him off, though formerly her dear husband? Be yet persuaded, your children would yet rejoice in you, and care for you, though stripped of all your estate by these women. Do you not perceive how they have ensnared you, and wound you about with their nets, as the spider doth the silly fly? first, they entangled you with music, and many years held you under that pleasing note; then they cast over you the net of pretended piety, and feigned extraordinary holiness; and then they snare you in the net of love to Mrs. Jones, which they work you to believe is lawful; and lastly, lest you should break from all these, they throw over you the strong iron net of the Law, and that doubtless will hold your estate fast, which is the thing they seek for, whatever becomes of you.  
I shall conclude all with a short paraphrase upon part of the seventh chapter of the Proverbs, and let all men judge how it fits this occasion.  
Verse 6. And I saw amongst the simple, and considered amongst the children, a young man destitute of understanding, who passed by the street, by her corner, and went towards her house.  
Which how frequently you have visited, let all red cross Street and Paul's ally testify.  
Verse 9 In the twilight, in the evening, when the night began to be black and dark.  
I and at noon day, in the light of the Sun.  
Verse 10. And, behold there met him a woman with a harlot's behaviour, and subtle of heart.  
Verse 11. She is babbling and loud, whose feet cannot abide in her house.  
12. Now she is without, now in the streets, and lies in wait at every corner.  
This is so perfectly Mrs. Jones her picture, that nothing can be more alike in all the circumstances.  
13. So she caught him, and kissed him, and with an impudent face said unto him.  
For this I refer you to Mr. Pigeon's attestation mentioned before in this book.  
14. I have peace offering this day; I have paid my vows.  
15. Therefore came I forth to meet thee that I might seek thy face, and I have found thee.  
16. I have decked my bed with ornaments, carpets and laces of Egypt.  
17. I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes and cinnamon.  
I am in gospel order, rebaptised, a member of Mr. Kiffins Church, and profess according to the Antimonian light, that God sees no sin in his children: and therefore,  
Verse 18. Come let us take our fill of love, until the morning; let us take our pleasure in dalliance.  
19 For my husband is not at home; he is gone a journey far off.  
I have sent him to Norwich, whither he is forced by my wicked usage.  
20. He hath taken with him a bag of Silver, and will return at the day appointed.  
I have stripped him of all, not leaving him one penny in his purse; and taken order if ever he return, to have him clapped up in the jail. Judge what a Saint the harlot is in these four last verses, in comparison of Mrs. Jones: she owns her husband, let's him carry away a bag of money, and expects his return.  
21. Thus with her great craft she caused him to yield, and with her flattering lips she enticed him.  
22. And he followed her straightway as an ox that goes to the slaughter, and as a fool to the correction of the stocks.  
23. Till a dart strike through his liver, as a bird hastes to the snare, and knows not that he is in danger.  
27. Her house is the way to the grave, which goes down to the chambers of death.  
The Lord open your eyes   

LEt the reader take notice, that at the time of young Mr. Goodwins arrest, there was an account drawn up by one Mr. Lewis a Scrivener, by the appointment of old Mr. Goodwin and his women, by which it appears, that there was then a clear estate (all debts paid) of 1516l. Of which Mr. cross recovered 0134l. Rests 1382l.  
To be divided (with the yearly benefit of the Trade) between Mr. Coleborne, Mrs. Jones, and Mrs. Pigeon.   

Two words to Mrs. JONES, and Mrs. PIGEON.  
NOT that I have any confidence to prevail with you by any thing I can say, but that you may be warned and left without excuse: I am not ignorant of your dispositions, scoffing at any thing that crosses your projects. Indeed you are arrived at such a proficiency in sin, that because with painted words, elevated, and then presently dejected Eyes, that send forth tears at command, double sighs, and broken sobs; solemn Imprecations to what you would assert, promptness to rebuke sinful expressions or behaviour in others, when there are such persons by as may witness your zeal; seemingly great tenderness and scrupulosity in smaller matters, readiness to quote abused Scripture for all you do; in all which you are incomparably practised; because with these you have not only charmed a weak old man; but even many seeming wise persons (not acquainted with your subtleties) are deluded by you, so that some of them have styled you most angelical Creatures. I say, having these abilities and applauses, I much doubt you believe also that even God himself allows of all you have done. But let me whisper a word to your consciences, if you have any. I pass by here what you have done to your respective husbands, and divers other persons I could name. I will only put you in mind what you have to answer for poor old Mr. Goodwin, and his children, all whom (for your covetous sinful ends) you have ruined; some of them by your means brought already to a morsel of bread. Was there ever such a desolation brought upon a family, to enrich those that lately had not the least title, or interest in the family? That Mr. Goodwin (father and son) that six years a gone lived in good credit, and with a good stock, and a gainful trade, through your injurious invasions and subtle sleights, are neither of them at this day worth a groat: the whole Estate, house, stock, and Trade under the covert of Mr. Colbornes' name, being translated to you. Nay, by the industry of Mr. Colborne the Scrivener, and Mr. Hat the Attorney, you enjoy all this under a Legal title; so that thus fortified, you triumph and laugh at all that dare oppose you, and you are now fixed in your sinful purchase. But here Remember, though man cannot call you to account, God will; and by how much the more religion hath been a cloak to this wickedness, by so much the more severe and dreadful is your punishment like to be. And though Mrs. Pigeon says, I never took any design in hand but I prospered in it; yet let her remember, that God's word says, The prosperity of the wicked shall slay them: let them both remember, that while the thief steals, the Hemp grows; that while sin ripens, the reckoning day comes on apace: that while they are revelling with their Sage-ale, and Marmalade, and dividing the spoils of Mr. Goodwins estate, his children are spreading their wrongs daily before God, to whom they appeal for Justice against you, and to whose dreadful bar they summon you both, with your assistants, to answer this horrible wickedness. God hath given you both warnings of late; as you tender your souls, be awakened by them to repentance. Remember, you must shortly die, and for all these things God will bring you to Judgement.  Ecclesiastes. 12 ult. For God will bring every work to Judgement, with every secret thing, whether it be good or evil. 
FINIS.   

READER,  
I Am informed, That these women, taking the advantage of the Authors not publishing his name, give out, that all is lies and slanders. In the first place consider, if it be not reasonable in perilous times to beware of perilous persons. Again observe, that the substance of it is matter of Fact: Of the truth whereof, if thou wilt be at the pains, thou shalt be the judge: For example, Dost thou doubt of the truth of old Mr. Goodwins behaviour to his former wife? ask Mr. Vernon in Bevis Marks: or of Mrs. Pigeon's behaviour towards her two husbands? ask Mr. Pigeon, Mr. Wolf a shopkeeper upon Exchange: of Mrs. Jones her behaviour to her husband? ask Mr. Hill a Lute-maker in the Strand, Mr. Fletcher at the Earl of Warwick's, Mr. horn in Little Saint Bartholomew's: or of Mr. Goodwins scandalous converse for these many years with Mrs. Jones? ask Mr. Vernon, Mr. Pigeon, and all the neighbours in Paul's Alley: or of their obscene carriage in private? see Mr. Pigeon's Attestation in the hands of Mr. Cooper, Minister of Olaf's Parish: or of the suspected death of Roger Crey? ask Mrs. Brown in Pickle Herring, and all Mr. Goodwin's servants: or of Mrs. Pigeon's invading Mr. Goodwins Estate, under pretence of freeing him from his children? ask Mr. Henry Colburn Scrivenet: or of the ejecting young Mr. Goodwin in that in human manner? ask Mr. Goodwins servants, and all the neighbours on the Green-bank. In fine, that there may not want Testimonies, even these women have set to their Seal: For instance, take this short, but real story. In page 28. of the Narrative, there is a short parallel made between Mrs. Jones and the Harlot, in Prov. 7. 20. is this Note, I have stripped him of all, not leaving him one penny in his purse, and taken order if ever he return, to have him clapped up in the Gaol. This was printed above three Months agone, and about a month agone comes Mr. Jones to London, his business, to see his children, and to receive and settle the rents in St. John's street, which is well known he intended to divide every penny amongst his children: at his arrival being constrained in his affections, he went to his house to see them, where he found one of Mr. Goodwins servants called Silvester Smith, a gentleman's Son of Estate in Nottinghamshire, courting his daughter Mary Jones, a girl about thirteen years of age, with whom the said Silvester is since contracted in marriage. Where note how these wicked women do wind and screw themselves into good families, as formerly they did by James Goodwin, and the elder sister, though both were children, and shamefully unfit for such a relation: and their design herein not so much to prefer these children, as to become interested in the estates of other men. But to return, while Mr. Jones in a civil loving way is discoursing with them, Mrs. Jones and Mrs. Pigeon both in the house, sent and entered an Action for 400 l. against Mr. Jones in Wood. street Counter, at the pretended Suit of one Mr. Montague a schoolmaster of Ockingham in Berkshire, and brought away two Sergeants, who at his coming down arrested him, and carried him away Prisoner to the Counter. The next morning one of the Sergeants went to these women (as I conceive) to demand his Salary: when Mrs. Jones asked of him, if Mr. Jones were in the prison; and being informed he was, she then fell into a violent Crocodile passion, with tears bewailing his condition: The Sergeant then told her, he was there by her order, and that if she would withdraw the Action, he would presently release him: she then cried out with vehemency, Oh no, by no means; he must lie in prison, and we have more Actions to charge him with. Away in admiration of this devilish dissimulation comes the Sergeant, and at his heels Mrs. Pigeon to the Counter, and in the names of several persons entered four Actions more against him, to the value in all of about 1000 l. of all which Mr. Jones protests he oweth not one penny. Since they have let fall the four last Actions, and did on Wednesday, February the 2d come to a trial upon the 400 l. Action. But first Mrs. Jones is dispatched away to Ockingham to prevail with Mr. Montague to own it, who (as is verily believed) all this while knew nothing of it: which they well hope she cannot fail to effect, his wife being also sister to these good Ladies, a chicken of the same brood. Things thus disposed, to trial they come, where when Mrs. Pigeon's Counsel (Mr. Lane) told her it was not probable Mr. Jones should owe Mr. Montague, 400 l. and he have neither Bill nor Bond to show for it; and though she offered to make Oath of it, he told her that would not carry it; but wished her rather, if she could swear that Mr. Montague had disbursed any money for Mrs. Jones and her children since his absence: she then, ad omnia quare, made Oath that Mr. Jones ran away from her sister five years agone, leaving her neither bread, nor money to buy bread: though it can be proved, they were two years at least soliciting him to be gone from his wife, and at one time offered him 10 l. to be gone, and all that they might carry on their intended project with old Mr. Goodwin. But to make short, by this Oath she obtained a Verdict for 60 l. for Mr. Montague, which Mr. Jones not any ways able to pay, must remain prisoner in all probability during life: which considering his melancholy temper, impatient of a Prison, I verily believe will not be long. And now let the ingenuous Reader judge of the fidelity of the Narrative, and the wickedness of these women.  
FINIS.