EPISTOLIUM-VAGUM-PROSA-METRICUM: OR, An Epistle at Random, IN PROSE and METRE.  
To be delivered, to all whom it may concern; but, was first intended only, for two or three of the Author's Friends in Authority (if he hath so many left) to mediate in Parliament, the Redress of his destructive Grievances; in the expression whereof, many Particulars of Public Concernment are interwoven.  
When Justice reigns, the Land doth flourish;  
When, 'tis unthroned, the People perish.  
The Author, is George Whither Esq; Who, in writing this Address, being transported beyond the sense of his Personal Sufferings, discovers by a Poetical Rapture, that whereon the peace of these Nations depends; and, what IS, and what WILL BE, their sad Condition; as also, what New-Purgatories, and Fiery-Tryals, they are likely to pass, if GOD's Mercy, prevents not: which that they may endeavour to obtain, their old REMEMBRANCER gives them, once more, a Forewarning; resolving, this shall be his Last Time, of sounding them an ALARM.  
When Disrespects, to Wrongs, doth Ruin add,  
He, may be wise, who seems a little mad;  
And, in that FIT speak things that needful be  
To turn those men, that are, more mad than he.  
Printed at London, in the Year 1659.   

August 10. 1659. Epistolium-Vagum-Prosa-metricum: OR, An EPISTLE at Random, in Prose and Metre.  

OUr English Proverb saith, that Charity gins at home; and, this Divine Precept, Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thyself, implies, that there ought to be in every man such a moderate and well-regulated self-love, as may be a standing Rule whereby to regulate his love to other men: Also, from this saying of Paul, He that provides not for his family, is worse than an infidel; I do collect, that, He who provides not for himself, is worse than a Beast: It is every man's duty, in order to the preservation of his Country, to preserve him also, as much as he can, who loves and studies the peace and welfare of it; and I knowing no man living, who affects the welfare thereof, more than I do, may be culpable perhaps of unfaithfulness to my Country, by neglecting my own preservation. Therefore, that, I may discharge the duty which I own to my Country, my Self, and my Neighbours, by taking timely care of my own preservation, (being at present in much hazard, and by none else regarded) I have sent abroad this wand'ring Epistle to fetch in aid; which if it come into such hands as I purposed it should, and to whom I did first, and principally intent it; then, you, who are now perusing it, are none of those Idol-Gods, who are insensible of those Prayers and Complaints, which are presented unto them; Or, one of those men in honour without understanding, who are like the Beasts that perish: but, one in whom I hope to find that Candour and Humanity, which renders men heedful and sensible of their Neighbours Grievances: In that hope, and on that account only, I am emboldened hereby to crave your furthering the presentation of that my Petition & Narrative to this Parliament, which (if no other charitable hand shall first undertake it) you shall receive in Writing, to be presented to the House; and also printed Copies of them for your private Information touching my Cause, with two Preparatory Addresses, directed to every Individual Member of the said Parliament; if you give me an encouragement thereto, after the receipt hereof, as I hope you will: for, if there hath been offered to this Parliament any Grievances, more considerable than mine, (all Circumstances and Consequences considered) I will be contented they should cast my Cause out of their House, and me out of this Commonwealth.  
I am enforced to such a Whimsy as this, because, all my endeavours hitherto have been as ineffectual, as if I had solicited the Statues in Westminster-Abby, or in Whitehall Garden; and because, also, I, (having lately made trial) find no Member of Parliament, willing to offer unto it a Petition at this busy time, though a little longer delay may prove destructive to me, injurious to many, and dishonourable to this Commonwealth, wherein Justice hath been already deferred (as to a main part of my Grievances) nigh 17 years: For, it will be no little dishonour, nor a slight disadvantage thereto, if at such a time as this, a faithful servant to this Republic, after so long and great sufferings as mine, shall not seasonably be indemnified from dangers and damages (solely occasioned by her defective Securities and unperformed Engagements) which will else destroy him: especially, when large Indulgencies are granted to her malicious Enemies and notorious Offenders. Vouchsafe this Wanderer such respect as it shall deserve; for, it begs not contrary to Law; hath a Pass, under my hand, who employed it, only to prevent those Provocations which may be occasioned by being slighted in a Personal Address; and I will take order that it shall be no further troublesome than you please, after it hath declared my Requests.  
I am in a straight, from which none under GOD can deliver me, but the supreme Power of these Nations; whereto, though it be difficult to procure access, (by reason of those Insurrections which are now begun) I am necessitated to attempt it; and do conceive that the supreme Authority now in being is obliged to vouchsafe me Protection, yea, and Hearing and Relief in some measure, even at this season, which may seem unseasonable. I act in matters concerning GOD and my Soul, according to that measure of Illumination which he vouchsafeth by his Word and Spirit, neither uncharitably judging, or inwardly disaffecting them who do the like: It is also my Principle to submit unto that civil Authority, which hath the most visible Power, and to be Active and Passive under it, both for preservation of the Common-peace, and of my private interests, without much busying myself in examining how rightfully, or by what means it got into the Throne; considering how difficult it is for a private Person to discover the Mysteries of State, with the many Intricacies wherewithal they are involved; and how dangerous it is, to dive into those Whirl-pooles, wherein, are so many contrary Fluctuations. I content myself, with such a Notion thereof only, as GOD brings to my knowledge; who, hath by his Word informed us, that all Powers that be (whatsoever they be) are of him: And, as I am enjoined obedience by his Precepts, to that which is in present being; so, I have the practice of the Apostles, and of their Master CHRIST himself to warrant it, who submitted to the Roman Monarches in those times wherein they lived, in all Civil Matters, though they were Infidels, cruel Tyrants, and very wickedly obtained their Sovereignty.  
I am carried into this Digression, to prevent what I know, is spoken privately to my disadvantage; and therefore bear with my proceeding in it a little further. According to this Principle, I acted and suffered with a good Conscience, whilst the supreme Power was divided betwixt the late King and Parliament: so, I did, when it was solely in this Parliament, and when GOD permitted Oliver Cromwell to usurp it, by a Stratagem, for a Correction due to our sins (and for our extraordinary Experiments, both by his Probation, our Own, and other men's, in things of highest concernment) I endeavoured, during that Permission, in my Place, and according to my qualifications, and by a Compliance, so far forth as was warrantable, to preserve the Common-peace; to continue a claim on the People's behalf, of their just interest; to divert him, from accepting of that whereof he was ambitious, and whereto he aspired, whilst he pretended the contrary, (though with some hazards to myself, both in relation to him who well enough perceived my intention; and of my reputation also with many of them, who misjudged thereof) and to prosecute likewise, a means of my deliverance from those my personal Oppressions, whereof I still have cause to complain. And (my Conscience persuading it was both lawful, and my duty to make trial of that Power) I omitted no honest Course or Opportunity, to signify my Grievances, that I might obtain remedy. But I laboured with no more success, then if I had petitioned to the Dead: For neither by him who usurped the Throne (though by many References he pretended to do me Justice) nor by any of his Assemblies called Parliaments, though I continually attended them; nor, by his Council, nor by his Successor, could I procure so much toward the obtaining of common Justice, as to have one Petition taken into serious Consideration; yea, though I was always faithful (as I think myself bound in conscience to be) to that Power which GOD permitteth for the time being, to reign over us.  
Therefore, this Parliament, which he violently interrupted, being now again by GOD's Mercy restored; and the Distractions and Necessities of this Commonwealth, rendering it so difficult as aforesaid, to get admittance for private Petitions, that I am yet without Relief, and likely to be quite destroyed as to my outward well-being, before this Parliament, will in the ordinary course, without some extraordinary means, take cognizance of my sad Cause; I am resolved by this Expedient, and the Preparatories, which I think therewith useful, to make trial, once more for ever, whether or no, there be in this Nation (as I yet hope there is) that Righteousness and Mercy which establisheth Governments, and which is likely to restore our lost Liberties, and free us from present Burdens, and future Oppressions: And, this Trial, if it prove but as effectual as my last Expedients, to the two late Protectors, presented unto them a little before the death of the first, and the removal of the last, will shortly (though it produce not what I reasonably expect) put an end at least to those vain hopes, which every day increase my Consumption; and which have already, almost every way consumed me, by long chargeable Solicitations and numerous Petitions, hitherto taken into men's hands, and pockets, but not into their hearts.  
But, lest my Petition, Narrative, and Preparatives , which are the Foundation of this Epistle, may not herewith come to your hands; and so the true state of my Case be to you, in some considerable Circumstances unknown; I will here insert a Copy of my Petition intended to this Parliament.  
To the PARLIAMENT of the COMMONWEALTH of England:  
The Humble Petition of Geo. Whither Esq;  
Shows,  
THat, this Petitioners Demands and Accounts being stated upon Oath by the Committee for Accounts, etc. they were afterward reexamined (a trouble rarely (if ever) imposed upon any other) by two Committees of Parliament successively, (to wit) the Committee of the Navy, and a Select Committee. The said Committee of the Navy, reported by Col. Thompson, that, 3438 l. 18 s. 4 d. was then due to this Petitioner, beside some Demands than respited.  
That Report, not being brought into the House until about six months after (in which time, the best part of a million was, to this Petitioners damage charged in Course before it) the sum of 1681 l. 15 s. 8 d. etc. part of the said 3438 l. was charged upon the Excise in Course, March 22. 1647. but, without allowance of any Interest, though 700 l. thereof (for which this Petitioner paid interest) was by him, engaged for, and disbursed for the State; and though likewise, the rest of the said 1681 l. was also made immediately payable unto him, by Warrants or Orders about four years before, and due for service under the same Commander, at the same times, and in the same places, for which his fellow-soldiers had either present payment in ready money, or interest allowed.  
This, being made evident, it was ordered Decemb. 25. 1648, that 300 l. more should be charged upon the Excise, in consideration of Expenses and Interest before that day laid out, for the said 700 l. and that Interest of 8 l. per Cent. should be paid every six months, both for the said 300 l. and 700 l. out of the Excise also, from that time, until the said 300 l. and 700 l. should be discharged. To this Order, the Concurrence of the Lords was desired; but about a week after, and before that Concurrence could be obtained, this Parliament took away the House of Lords, and this Petitioner could never after get Principal or Interest, or the said Order to be allowed.  
The remainder of the said 3438 l. was the same March 1647. made payable out of discoveries at Haberdashers-Hall, and afterward by another Order out of Compositions at Goldsmiths-Hall; which not being effectual, this Petitioner after many tedious and chargeable Solicitations, petitioned again; and then this Parliament referred the whole Cause, and the finding out means for this Petitioners satisfaction, to the said Select Committee, who found 3958 l. 15 s. 8 d. to be then due, and declared, that they thought fit, it should be thus paid, (viz.) that the said 1681 l. should stand charged upon the Excise as formerly; and that interest should be paid for that whole sum (as in equity it ought) after the rate aforesaid, from the 22 of Septemb. then last passed, until the Principal were paid; and that for the rest of the said 3958 l. 15 s. 8 d. there should be settled upon this Petitioner and his heirs, Lands by them nominated, as they were valued in the Sequestrators Books, whose yearly valuation was 240 l.  
No Result appearing upon this Report in a long time after, this Petitioner once again petitioned, and upon the 2 of January 1650, instead of the satisfaction last mentioned, it was ordered, that the said 1681 l. 15 s. 8 d. part of the said 3958 l. should stand charged upon the Exoise as before, but without mentioning any interest, whether intended or not: if not intended, then both the money lent, and the residue having been due above 16 years, yet payable but in Course, which hath been stopped above seven years, (without any certain termination of the said stop) is likely to be a payment amounting to many thousand pounds less than nothing; and the payment which the Petitioner hath for the Remainder, is worse.  
For, by the same Order, instead of 240 l. per an. according to what the said select Committee though sonable, he was to have but 150 l. per annum settled upon him the said Petitioner, out of the Estate of Jo. Denham Esq; for satisfaction of the remainder, of the said 3958 l. which Lands (all things considered) he was to pay for, at 40 years' purchase in ready money, whereas he could have bought for less than eight years, the like Lands; yet, this Petitioner accepted thereof, and had the said 150 l. per annum, conveyed unto him out of the Manor of Little Horsly in Essex, part of the Estate of the said Denham, and purchased the rest of the said Manor for 1645 l. and odd money; paid for it, according to his contract, and was put into quiet possession.  
But, whilst he was in possession, he made not one penny of clear profit, by reason of interruptions; and hath now been ejected about five years out of the whole Manor, without either Rent or Recompense, and hath spent also about 600 l. in troubles and suits yet undetermined, to defend and recover his Title; which Suits were occasioned by a pretended Lease to one Thomas Offly Esq; which is probably forged, to the defrauding the Commonwealth of between 3 or 4000 l. and the said Lease, if it be real, was at a great undervalue, compounded for by a Member of this Parliament, to the wrong of the Commonwealth as well as of this Petitioner, as will appear by the Narrative hereto annexed, and by what this Petitioner shall further demonstrate. By these procceeding, this Petitioner is damnified so much, beside his troubles, and the loss of precious time at the latter end of his life, that he protesteth in the fear of GOD, he is in danger with his whole Family to be ruined in his Estate and Credit, and that he verily believeth, he had been about 5000 l. better in his Estate, if he had quitted the said 3958 l. 15 s. 8 d. when it was first due.  
This Petitioner further showeth, that about eight years passed he purchased of the State a small parcel of Land at Ash in Surry, whereof he is totally deprived also, by a Member of this Parliament, who hath ever since detained the said Land and Rent from him; and who having been often summoned by the Commissioners for removing of Obstructions, to show his Title, refuseth or neglecteth so to do; and this Petitioner being not able to commence a suit for it, is likely for ever to lose both his said purchase, and what be paid for it, unless the said Member may be ordered, to do that which is agreeable to Justice; which he humbly desireth he may be compelled to do.  
And, in Consideration of the rest of the Premises, this Petitioner humbly prays also, that the Requests at the Close of the said Narrative hereto annexed, may be granted, so far forth as they are just; and that your Honours will put such a speedy end, to his said Grievances, that he may die in Peace: For he will be contented with whatsoever you shall determine, and pray for your Honours.  
Let, not this be slighted; for my life is worn out by Oppressions, (the 70 year of my Age being passed) and, you may perceive by the preceding Petition and the Narrative, that this Parliament before the interruption thereof, (by the prevalency of some among them, and now justly excluded) as also by their Interruptors, in delay of Justice, have caused me to be damnified in at least 8000 l. by detaining a very considerable part of my Estate above sixteen years, and by not making good their Contracts and Engagements, wherein I confided; and whereby (as I believe) there hath been cast upon me more than 40 times the Burden justly imposed upon any man of my Revenue: which (considering how serviceable I have been without constraint, in adventuring my life, and contributing my Estate with the first, in order to a preservation of Common-Right and Safety) hath been an unequal distribution; and reduced me to such Extremities, as I expected not to be plunged into by Friends, who have been so merciful to their Enemies; and who made promise of better things; for, they were such Hardships, as I could other while hardly brook; and such, as if my greatest Adversary had been in the like case, I should have afforded him more pity than I have found. This, I profess without falsehood or equivocation, for, I have had daily vexations thereby; and at sometimes been so afflicted, with shame and grief, when I thereby failed their expectations, who confided upon my Credit, and my Engagements to them, that it made my life wearisome, (especially when they were necessitous persons) until I could find means to supply their need, how much soever it were to my disadvantage. To preserve myself, as much as I could from this vexation and scandal, and to supply my personal wants, (occasioned by other men's deceiving my hopes) I have been enforced to fallen away lately above 2000 l. worth of my then remaining Livelihood, real and personal; and am still engaged by my continuing Oppressions, in almost as much more, though I have since the sales last mentioned, sold by parcels, to the dismembering of my Inheritance, all that was disengaged, and at my free dispose: yet the Consumption goes on; insomuch that the remainder of the portion left in possession, (unless part of that which is due to me may be paid, to free it from Encumbrances) is likely to be forfeited within a few months. And, though that Forfeiture should be saved, my Revenue will not be sufficient to discharge Taxes and Parochial Payments, with the Interest of my remaining debts, and inavoidable Expenses by them annually occasioned, (without a further supply out of what is detained from me) & afford a maintenance for my self, my wife, children and servants, (though a far less number than heretofore) after the rate of 5 s. the week one person with another throughout the year, to provide meat, drink, raiment, servants wages, children's portions, and all other necessaries in sickness and in health.  
And less I should have had (as rich as the world thinks me) if my frugality (which hath been reputed a parsimony to my disparagement) had not been many years rather proportioned to my weak Estate, then to the rank in which I lived: For, I shall shortly be in danger, to have neither Stock upon my Land, nor Goods in my House, nor a House wherein to hid my head, except it be a Prison, if my Creditors be not more merciful by forbearance, till I can make money of what is yet left, than my Debtors have been to enfore me to that hazard: who, (if I had been justly dealt withal) should probably have long since possessed a Revenue of above 500 l. per annum, free from Debts and Engagements, and might have raised also 5000 l. for my children's portions, who have yet nothing. And, which is worse than so bad; I, whose Credit was so good, that when occasion heretofore required it, I have borrowed 100 200. 300 l. yea, 600 l. in one place for several years upon my single bond, (as will yet appear by the bonds canceled) am now doubtful whether my security will pass alone for 10 l. And, I believe, that they who (perhaps to disparage me in another kind) report I have Lands to the yearly value of 1000 l. (which is a great deal more than twice so much as I ever yet had) will not better my credit by that fame, as to borrowing at this time: and though it do not, Poverty, when the Commonwealth is poor, will to me be more honour, then to be rich; considering how I am impoverished.  
Not many men have so unfeignedly told the world heretofore, their outward Condition, as I have declared mine, when it was requisite; nor discovered their inside more sincerely, by publishing their thoughts, to his own hazard, for an advantage to his Country: But most are such dissemblers, that they believe not one another. If men think I now dissemble, and am as rich as report hath made me, perhaps whilst I am here at London soliciting my Cause, they will steal away my only Son and Daughter, in hope they will prove rich marriages: which nevertheless I am resolved to adventure; as also, how the Militia in Hamshire, out of which I am by Providence (if not by some other means omitted) will proportion my burden to other men's. I hope well of their impartiality; but, if (as I am informed) they have imposed upon me the setting forth of two Horses, I shall be scarce found able at this time to provide them Bridles; and some of my Countrymen may as justly be charged with a whole Troop: according to which proportion, if a Militia be armed in all other Counties, Charles Stuart, were better stay at Brussels, then come hither, though Spain, France, and the Emperor should assist him.  
How this revealing of my Poverty will obstruct my Credit, as to borrowing hereafter to relieve my necessities; and how it may hinder the advance of my Children in Marriage, the prudence of the world, would have advised me to consider. But I regard neither her Counsel nor her Practice: If Marriages, according to our Proverb, be made in Heaven; and, if (as I believe, and have had experience of it) good Husbands and Wives, are God's gift, and at his disposal by an extraordinary Providence, I will trust to his providing them Spouses and Portions: and whatsoever my future want shall be, do purpose to deceive no man, by making my Estate seem better than it is; though they be not of that mind, who obstruct the establishing of Registers to prevent fraud. When I was much poorer than at present I am, GOD, raised me up a Friend, who knowing by what means I was necessitated, (and how unlikely I was to repay him) brought nevertheless unto me without my ask aught, (without obliging me by a note under my hand, and without so much as requiring a promise of repayment) 500 l. by parcels, at several times, during the continuance of my wants; And the same GOD, who thereunto inclined him, without any earthly relation, is my GOD at this day, and will be so for ever.  
Herein consists that which keeps up my spirit, at this present, notwithstanding the long neglect of my Oppressions, and the Wants, it hath brought upon me; and though the Parliaments late leaving me out of Public Employments, hath occasioned me to be suspected by their Friends, as not well-affected thereunto; to be he laughed at by the Commonwealths open Enemies, and as much hated as heretofore, because they well enough know my continuing faithfulness to her Interest: Though it may cause me to be jeered by Newters; to be slighted by my debauched Neighbours; to be the sooner stripped of what is yet left, by Creditors and Publicans; and to be made liable to the fury of every Armed-party, into whose hands I may possibly fall during these times of Insurrection; notwithstanding all this, now likely to come upon me, I neither distrustfully repine at what I suffer, (though I use the best means I can to remove it) nor fear what may come hereafter, because GOD is my Refuge. If it were not so, which way should I turn myself to find comfort? My Estate is like a Candle burnt within the Socket: Age hath somewhat abated my strength: Friends and Acquaintance (like such as Poverty produceth) stand afar off: my Comforters, are like Job's: my Enemies are malicious, and increase: my dearest Relations, have nothing to contribute but Téars or Complaints to the afflicting of my heart with unprofitable pity: and though I have looked for Helpers, not one appears, but He who never fails those that trust in him; and he also otherwhile hides himself, because of my transgressions, till I am ready to cry out, Oh God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? and than he discovers himself again, and smiles on me. But, what is this to the world? though he be so gracious, that I have no cause to murmur at his permitting me to be harshly used, nor do repine at that permission; I will nevertheless not forbear to declare how the world deals with me, though she calls it murmuring.  
But, some will perhaps object, that I cannot be so necessitated as I pretend; for it is evident that I have such and such a visible Estate. I confess, I have an Estate visible afar off, partly in Reversion, and partly encumbered; but, it is not Tangible, as to my necessary occasions. Like Tantalus, I have an appearance of food at my upper lip, and water to the Chin, but not in possession more than I have declared; and those false appearances of plenty, make them who know not how it is really with me, and know how long I have subsisted in a seeming good condition since I had cause to complain, think me a male-contented murmurer, (which is none of the least disparagements) rather justly reprovable for complaining, without need, then to be pitied; which Unchristian prejudice, hath not a little increased the Cause, and prolonged the justness of my complaints. I have yet, a visible Estate; but a great part of it lies like an Orphan's portion in the hands of a powerful unconscionable Guardian, who makes use of it for his own occasions; and leaves him to beggary and starving. The Residue of my Livelihood, I possess as Bees do their honey, when the Combs & Cells are so broken and mashed together in the Hive, (which standeth sound in outward view) that instead of being nourished by it, they lie entangled, and sprawling out their lives, smothered in the midst of their plenty; and am in a worse condition than the poor persecuted Protestants in Piedmont, and other places, for whose relief Contributions were of late largely and charitably made, (pray GOD they were as sincerely disposed of) yet I am likely to be ere long in a more sad estate: for, they being driven from all they had, by their Enemies, retained their Liberty, which I am likely to lose; they had their reputation increased by suffering for their Conscience, and some Friends also to relieve them; whereas I am ruined in my Estate and Credit, by and among those whom I thought my Friends: and what succour are my Aversaries to whom I am exposed, likely to afford me? or, to whom shall I complain? There is a Catholic Congregation, whereof I am a Member, among whom there is true compassion; but, they are personally as unknown to me, as the 7000 in Israel, who had not bowed their knees to Baal, were to Elias, who knew not one of that number. I have only a spiritual Communion with them, and my supplies from them, will be rather in spiritual Communications, then in temporal things, wherewith I shall be well enough contented. The earth is the LORDS, and all that is therein, upon whose score I shall expect what is necessary for life, if all were lost; and for the services which I have heretofore done for my Country, and for the love I still bear to it, I may claim so much at least, as due to me of right, though it had paid me all the debt it owes me, and though I had lost it another way.  
That which most afflicts me, is not altogether the damage which I outwardly substain in having the adventuring my life and estate for this Commonwealth, so little regarded; nor the shameful poverty that I have been exposed unto, by those who have more cause to be ashamed of it then I: But the dishonour and hazards which are brought upon this Nation and their Representative, by such like neglects of Justice as have occasioned my complaints, and our universal hazard, is my greatest grief; seeing, to my knowledge, they might have been prevented with a little cost and trouble, if some had not wilfully obstructed, or neglected Justice, for sinister respects. The money, which hath been owing to me above 16. years, might have been paid 16. times in that space, out of treasure disbursed much less for the Public honour and profit. Also, the Lands of 300 li. yearly value by me purchased of the State, and fully paid for seven years past, and yet still detained from me, (without having received one penny in clear profit, or any allowance for that damage, beside the loss of 500 li. more consumed in vain to defend my possession, and recover it being lost, by a pretended Mortgage, which is probably forged) might have been reestablished upon me long since, if the said Mortgage had not been unduly compounded for by a Member of Parliament; or if the validity of his Title, might have been examined, together with such actings relating thereto, as do seem to have been practised to defraud the Commonwealth of between 3. and 4000 li. as well as to deprive me of that Revenue.  
These things, I declare not, to asperse the Parliament, who could not help them, whilst their power was interrupted; but, to prevent the dishonouring thereof, now that power is restored: and so far I am from intending otherwise, that I think none but an Enemy thereunto, will so misunderstand me, though some among them were guilty; Seeing, the defects by unsound Limbs can be no more disreputation thereto, than it was to the twelve Disciples, that there was a Traitor among them; or, than it is to a man, otherwise well qualified, to be born with a crooked member, or to have a scab upon his body by casual Infection, which he endeavours to be rid of, as soon as he knows it. Nor doth my insisting upon the particulars aforementioned, proceed out of despair that I shall be left quite destitute, of things necessary to life: For, GOD, who provided for me when I was most deserted of the world, as I have already declared, assures me of the like mercy hereafter: Nor, do I thus discover my nakedness and sordid poverty, in hope to move compassion, by my own endeavour only; or when my own time requires it: For, I am not such a stranger to this Generation, and to the temper of most men therein, as not to know, that this Discovery (unless GOD restrain them, or change their minds) will expose me to the more misery and contempt; and give men encouragement to tread me over head and ears into the dirt, rather than to relieve me, or raise me up, when they see me sinking.  
Therefore, that which I have now written, and heretofore expressed to the like effects, is not wholly for the foresaid causes; but partly, to discharge my Conscience, in using that, which was wont to be the ordinary or extraordinary means of redressing Oppressions; and partly, that if they succeeded not, I might leave an experiment to them who shall live when I am dead, that there was a time, and may be again, wherein Hypocrisy, Apostasy, Avarice, Pride, Selfness, and hardheartedness, so abounded, that no words would move; no demonstrations persuade, no endeavour produce a reasonable or natural consequence; but, that the more rationally, the more evidently, an oppressed man shall make known his oppressions, and an innocent, vindicate his innocency, the more shall they neglect his sufferings; and the more maliciously, the more impudently practice to disgrace and frustrate his justification: And I have also written this, that considering there be times, and Contingencies, wherein, and whereby, The Race is not to the swift, nor the Battle to the strong, nor Bread to the wise, nor Riches to men of understanding; some, thereby, may heed and remember, to repose Trust, not in themselves, or in Princes, or in Parliaments, or in Armies, or in the People, or in any other save in GOD, only.  
But, Non vacat exiguis rebus adesse Jovi, our Terrestrial GOD'S, have now work enough to secure themselves, and to look to the common safety: and therefore, some seem to think it criminal to offer a private grievance, at this time, to be redressed by them, how destructive soever it be. These men, having never felt such oppressions as mine, nor wanted any thing necessary, these do, instead of a charitable assistance, or fellow feeling of my sufferings when they hear them declared, tell me, that such complain may be of dangerous consequence; that they are symptoms of a discontented mind; and that I must be patiented. Good Lord! how wise they are? why do they not reprove and blame all the Saints in Primitive Ages, as impatient and male-contented persons, because frequent in complain against their Oppressors? why do they not counsel those who are like to starve, through want of bread, not to be hungry? and those who are sick and wounded, not to be sensible of pain? how zealous of the Common-peace are they, who never contributed any thing toward the preservation of it, except words, which cost them nothing? If I had contributed and adventured no more, I should not have needed their grave advice or reproof at this time, but should have been thought as wise as they, and might perhaps had as little cause to complain. There be some, who are never sensible of other men's dangers or losses, till they themselves are likely to be impoverished or destroyed; other some there be, who never get any thing, until all is in hazard to be lost; and if I am destined to such a Lot, a time so busy, and hazardous as this, may be the most seasonable time for preferring my Petition, though it appear unseasonable to some: for, I am not so irrational, to desire more than may be granted, or to expect a full repair; but rather, that so much time only may be spared, as will suffice to order a supply for those Wants which cannot longer be born; and a stop set to those proceed which will be destructive, before a more ample provision may be made.  
The Parliament, I confess, hath now little leisure, and less than at any time heretofore, wherein Private Grievances, were put off by former Assemblies: yet I know it hath not so little leisure, as not to spare half an hour, to the charitable purpose last mentioned. The common-safety, is visibly in danger; But, I hope not so endangered, that it is disenabled from! doing such a work of Justice and Mercy, as may prevent an increase of their own dishonour, dangers, and expenses. The Commonwealth is in great want; but, their wants will be greater before they will become less, if (as in my Case) Justice be deferred to the doubling or trebling of their debts, by leaving those things unexamined (until Witnesses are dead, or Evidences embezzled) which might probably discharge the greatest part of them, by timely recovery of that which will else be lost. I was delayed as I now am, by every Parliament and Power in being, during the interruption of this Parliament, with this Answer: The Public affairs afford not leisure: But, who believed it? Nay, who believed not the contrary, that observed, as I did, for what things they found leisure? Leasure, was often found since I first petitioned (though I cannot say it of my certain knowledge since this Parliaments restauration) to hear private Complaints, far less considerable than mine, on the behalf of themselves, friends, kinsmen, and other relations, even during those Weeks and Months, wherein private Petitions, were excluded by Order of the House; as if such Orders had been only purposed, to give them the more easy admittance. O God why am I necessitated to bring to remembrance, misactings, whereby thou hast been provoked, and thy servants exasperated? Leasure, hath been found for Malefactors, when it concerned but their Estates or Lives only; And why could not leisure have been as well afforded in so many years, to preserve my Estate, and my Credit, which I more value than Life; and for preservation whereof, I would have given my estate, and two temporary Lives to boot, if I had them? Leasure, hath been found, to qualify rigid proceed against the Commonwealths Adversaries; yea, to accommodate them; nay, to ingratiate them; and leisure, is found still to the like purposes; which I grumble not at in respect of them: But, why might not I as well in all that time, have obtained such favour? why might not such a day or hour of leisure be found out for me? why might not I, who have been Instrumental for this Republics preservation, have been as much befriended as her Enemies, who sought to destroy it? but because the Commonwealth, and her Servants, have not such diligent friends as their Enemies?  
Oh God remember not this negligence and partiality to the Public disadvantage at this time, wherein faithful friends, and trusty servants, are as needful as ever they were. These are the Provocations, which have made their leisure, so little, and their business to be so much, still multiplying those troubles, which increase their expenses, and straightening them in time: and, the more they labour, and the more money they bestow, the more will their work, and disbursements be, until those things which occasion it be reform; and, if there be any one in that honourable Assembly, who believes not this; or, who is not so much humbled, for the failings which have been heretofore among them, that he can be willing to hear them mentioned for prevention of the like, (by him who desires the preservation of their Power with honour) I shall be more afraid of the disservice that such a Member may do to GOD, and to his Country, then of his displeasure, or of any mischief that can thereby befall me; and therefore, having said what I think, concerning the Leisure, which they heretofore had in Parliament, to take more Cognizance of private Grievances, I will add somewhat in answer to their Allegation, who say, Public Necessities, make the Parliament uncapable of relieving mine; and that, I ought not at this time to petition for it, but rather to rest satisfied.  
This, is as dissatisfactory to me, as it would be to my Creditors, when they are like to be undone by want of their money, if I should tell them, my necessities are so great that I cannot pay them, and that therefore they must rest satisfied; though they saw at that time, in and about my house, many unnecessary things, which were more chargeable than profitable; by the sale whereof, I might easily pay them all, and live as well contented, and with more, or with as much Credit as without them. Doubtless, my Creditors, if it were so with me, would expect a more satisfactory answer.  
In, like manner, I knowing the Commonwealth hath some Appurtenances, not so necessary as chargeable, and many things disposable, whereby my Grievances may be eased, and my Credit preserved, without any disadvantage thereunto, cannot be well pleased with such a Putoff, as perhaps I might have been, if I had lived these last 16 years (as I desired to have done, and yet do) by a Woods side in a Country Village, where I had been kept without knowledge of what is done in Committees, Courts, Councils and Parliaments. Why, must a greater burden than I am able to bear, or then falls to my proportion, be laid upon my back to uphold that which is falling? or to stop that Breach, whereby all the people of these three Nations, are liable to an inundation? Why should it not be rather equally divided among them; or among those who are best able to sustain it, until such an equal Division could be made, rather than that so much should be cast upon me, or upon any other, as will destroy him? What justice is there suitable to our Christian professions, or to the mercies which GOD hath vouchsafed to this Commonwealth, to do otherwise? Or how much differs this partial distribution whereof I complain, from what was barbarously practised among the Gentiles of old, when they sacrificed innocent persons to their false gods, that their wind-bound Fleets, (as did the Grecians) might have prosperous Gales? And, why was this Generation so imprudent, to requite me with evil for good, in so extraordinary a manner, as they have done, who have been a diligent Observer of what they have done? and who, am as sensible of Courtesies and Discourtefies, as other men? And also, better able to illustrate it when I am scurvily and unjustly dealt withal, than some wiser men, or then many thousands of other oppressed Suppliants, who have cause to complain? Why had it not more care of its own honour, though no regard of my Credit, to use me thus, considering I have some advantages on my side, whereby it will redound more to their shame, than the like Injustice to many hundreds of them, whose Obscurity makes their Sufferings less heeded, and sooner forgotten? If I, have thus suffered who had these advantages; who am known to the greatest number of the most considerable persons in the Nation; who have had familiarity with many of them, not without some appearances of good respect; who was acquainted with the greatest number of Parliament Members, & had many among them who professed to be my Friends; if I have found no better effects of all this; how alas! have some of those been neglected and oppressed, who had scarce one of those advantages? Verily I am persuaded, that God purposely corrected me for my sins, by keeping me so many years under Oppressions, occasioning my continual attendance in places of public Transactions, that I might be an Eye-witness of those Prevarications which have occasioned so many Changes within so short a time, & that I might leave a memorial of it to those whom it may concern hereafter: for, such things I should never have believed, in a time wherein so much honesty and Religion is professed, if I myself had not heard them, seen them, and felt somewhat of them in my own person, to ascertain me, that they proceeded not from those Causes, which are by some pretended, to extenuate or excuse them.  
It is not altogether public want, as is alleged, which hath kept me and many other distressed men, from their debts due upon the Public Faith; or caused that the Parliaments Engagements have not been performed; or, that their Securities are made snares, and ineffectual: But, Malice, Covetousness, Selfness, Vanity, or Negligence at best, have been the chief occasions thereof, as I could demonstrate by many particulars, which I forbear, lest it may reflect upon those whose honour I desire to preserve, and upon some individual persons, whom I hope to be now sorry for their failings. I could make it evident, that since I complained of Oppression, by the detaining what is my due, many vast sums have been vainly and needlessly (I will not say wickedly) squandered away, which might have been bestowed more for the Commonwealths honour and profit, in disengaging the Nation, from just debts long due to poor distressed Men, Women and Orphans; such as I have seen attending early and late, and from day to day soliciting for relief of their urgent necessities, with Tears, Exclamations and Imprecations, without any regard vouchsafed to their importunities or distressed Conditions; except such a dissembled regard, as increased their necessities, by giving false hopes of that performance, which they never made, neither perhaps ever intended. Who observed not how much was lately consumed in Flashy Baubles, whilst those poor Suppliants perished by want of necessaries? And how much also hath been lost, by defrauding the Commonwealth, and neglecting that means of supply which was lawfully due? I profess in the fear of God, my belief is, by what I have heard, seen and observed, during the 17 years wherein I have been treading the Maze, and running round in the Wheel of my yet endless Solicitations, that the Mulcts and Fines which might have justly been raised upon Discoveries (and which might have been made) out of their Estates, who have falsified their trust, cheated, dishonoured, or been mischievous Enemies to the Government, and this Republic, (and the payment whereof hath been prevented by Bribes taken (or upon other considerations as unjustifiable) to the use of single Persons, or shared among parties in Power, entrusted by the Commonwealth) would have more than discharged all her Engagements, and afforded also a Remainder for public uses; especially if the Postmastership, with such other means of raising money, had been from the beginning, husbanded for the public advantage. Why should any thing, to that end disposable, be otherwise disposed of, at this time, then for the Public, and to preserve their Lives, Estates and Credits, who ask but their own, and have hazarded and spent it in her service? Wherefore, whilst the Common-faith is engaged, should any part of the Forests (with the tyrannous Laws to them pertaining) be reserved to feed wild beasts for the disport of vain and idle persons? and to give occasion of reviving again hereafter that Oppression, which was one of the greatest under which this Land heretofore groaned? Or, why should the Accounts of so many Sequestrators, and Receivers, lie unexamined, by whom much money was received, which is not yet accounted for, or paid into the Common-Treasury, to supply public wants? And wherefore, during the present necessities, should it not be reputed as honourable an Expedient, to pay this Commonwealth's debts, by conferring to that end, all Offices thereby disposable, (with a competent allowance for their execution) and by selling those that are saleable, (and not for administration of Justice) as it is to give them in reward of services done, or to bestow a Plurality of places and profitable Offices (sometimes two, three, four, yea more at once) upon one person, who is neither necessitous, nor perhaps hath any way deserved so much as one of them? All which Particulars, with many other unmentioned, when I have well thought upon, as oftentimes I do, I cannot choose but believe, that either this Commonwealth, is not so poor as it is pretended to be, or else that there are some very much to blame.  
But, I hope, those failings which were heretofore, will be now amended, and things better ordered hereafter: For these misactings and neglects, with some other, have exceedingly incensed the Nation, and were doubtless an occasion in part, of that dangerous Insurrection which is newly begun in several places, and like to be universal, if GOD prevent it not by mercifully quenching those Flames without pouring upon them much blood; as I believ he will, for the safety of his chosen one's among us, and to deceive the hopes, and frustrate the purposes of his and our malicious Enemies, who at this time, (by what is designed here & in foreign parts) do presume, they shall get a large step toward the advance of their own Kingdom, by our destruction: and so it will be, if he put not a Bridle in their mouths: Therefore, when that day of salvation appeareth, it will become us to be thankful in humility, to rejoice with trembling, and to use that victory, which God shall be pleased to give, over our seduced Brethren and Countrymen, with moderation, as men conscious in ourselves, that they are thereby corrected as well for our sins, as for their own; as also, with that fellow-feeling, which our natural body would have, if some members thereof were tormented, or to be cut off: for, considering that their provocations, or misunderstandings, (as it is probable,) transported a great part of them with a blind and preposterous zeal to their Country, rather than any malice the eunto; and, considering that many of them are not only seduced by the subtle Arguments and insinuations of seeming friends, who intended one thing whilst they pretended another, but also really believed in their own hearts they had a good cause, (and that the miscarriages which they saw, and the misconstitutions from which they conceived them to spring, did oblige them to vindicate their own and the whole Nations rights and freedoms, from that entrenchment, which in their judgement seemed to be made upon them) they may be objects of Pity in some measure. God incline them whom it concerns, to be just as he is just, and merciful as he is merciful, according to that proportion whereof man is capable. I will now again proceed with what I have more to say concerning my particular Cause.  
The Parliament, is (I confess) much more straightened at this present then formerly, as well in time, as in the want of many other things needful, by reason of that condition, whereto their Obstructers and Interrupters have brought this Republic: in which respect, I have hitherto forborn to be over-importunate for my relief, and would have waited until it had been at better leisure, and better able to redress my Grievances; but, I can now subsist no longer: and evidently perceive also, that I must break in upon it, if I will be heard before it be too late. For, procrastinations so multiply oppressions, instead of giving opportunities to diminish them; that, this Parliament (as it hath heretofore thereto happened, and to many other) may suddenly and unexpectedly be ended, before I shall be heard; and that their Leisure and Treasure never will be more, nor their troubles fewer than they are, unless there be a more impartial distribution of Burdens, and a more charitable regard to those private men's Oppressions, who have been always faithful to the Public Interest, and are now consumed by their free contributions, and by the want of that which hath been kept, and exacted from them against their wills. If they believe GOD, to be just, and not like some among themselves, how can they expect a blessing upon their consultations and endeavours, whilst they permit them to perish, by withholding their means of Livelihood, who voluntarily engaged both life and livelihood for their preservation? and whilst they suffer those who first served them in their greatest need, to be quite forgotten (as to things which may concern their weal and safety) or to be last remembered, except it be by those only, who watch for opportunities to destroy or disgrace them?  
Such there be, even among those, who should be more mindful of God's justice upon themselves, and of his late superlative mercy to them and us, in restoring their lost Power, and in vouchsafing to make them his Probationers once more. These, I would not fear to distinguish from others by Name, if I had warrant for it, and, as good proofs to ascertain their mischievous and malicious condition to other men, as I have to assure myself of it. Such we have discovered to have been among them heretofore; and such to be there now, they themselves will discover ere long: and perhaps, I could offer to the consideration of such as these, that, concerning their own persons and families (which they think unknown to the world) that would make them afraid there is a GOD, though he be not yet in their Creed. These, are the achan's which trouble our Israel: Among these, is that Jack on all sides, that turns with every wind; that Politic would, befooled with pride and overweening, and that Love corrupted with dissimulation and avarice, by whom many proceed relating both to public and private Justice are obstructed; and whose Tables are made a snare ofttimes, to the falsifying of this old saying in barbarous Latin, usual among some lawyers, Esculenta, & poculenta, non sunt Bribamenta. Such as these, have added indignities to my oppressions, procuring me to be disgracefully put out of that Commission, wherein, I have faithfully served my Country many years, to preserve the peace thereof, according to my understanding, and as opportunity was offered; and, they have seemed to rank me among Malignants, and persons disaffected to the Commonwealth, by causing me to be left out of the Militia, in Hampshire, where my Family is settled, and where it as much concerned me to be Active, in preserving my own interest and safety, together with the Common-peace, as any Gentleman in that Country; and (I may speak it without arrogance) I have as well deserved to be therewith trusted; and made my trustiness so well known, both to the friends and enemies of this Commonwealth, that I am sure, the last, will remember it when it may do me a mischief, though the first, shall forget it, when it may do me good.  
This Affront, had it concerned my personal safety and Reputation only, (though that is not to be neglected) I would have disdained to take notice of it at this time, had I not cause to be jealous, it tends further than to my personal disadvantage; and, that I was not omitted by forgetfulness or mistake, but by design. They could not justly put me out of the Commission of peace, who till then served in three Counties, as a Commissioner, in regard I was never charged with any Delinquency: Nor because I had not a visible estate there befitting such a Commissioner; for, they saw an appearance of it; and if there be any Justice in this Commonwealth, it will be hereafter as competent a subsistence for me, as I desire, or, as may make me capable of that dignity: Nor was it because I am a nonresident in that County; for, my Family hath been settled there above two years, and I have there acted by that Commission when I was in the Country, which was five or six times in the year: and, if I had not been resident, nonresidence is not a just cause to leave any Gentleman out of the Commission, who was inserted, and hath a habitation in the County; for, then, most persons named in the Front of the Commission should be left out, to the disservice of the Commonwealth; which, is put to no more cost, then of so much room in a piece of parchment as will contain their names; and if they come into the Shire but once in two or three years, an occasion may happen whereby some necessary piece of service may at that time be done, worth the cost, which had else been omitted. And, that I was not omitted or exploded by any forgetfulness or mistake, it thus appears; There are four Gentlemen in that County with myself, (besides another lately in Commission, and now left out also) who bear both my Christian and Surnames, two of which, never being so authorized before, are empowered since my Omission; one of them in the Militia; the other, both in the Militia, and Commission of peace, distinguished, by their places of habitation: and doubtless, he who put out me whom he found upon the Roll, and who am the most ancient Commissioner of my Surname, and put in him whom he there found not, and distinguished him by the place of his abode; did intent, not only to manifest thereby that another was put into the Commission in my stead, but also, that it might be the more certainly known, I am knowingly put out; which, a Person, being one of the best men who serves for that County, (and who gave in my name) being informed of, professed he knew not why, or by whom, I was struck out.  
I, do not insist hereupon, with any desire to be restored to what I was, or to be invested with any new Trust; For, I desire the contrary, though some of those, who were instrumental, to have me left out of all authority (lest I might perhaps, have hindered their late design) do maliciously & untruly, report I seek to be restored. It seemeth some disadvantage, to have contempt cast upon me at this present; But, if they prevail, who have now taken Arms against the Parliament, I perceive (by what I discover already) that I and my Family, whether I am authorized or not, are in hazard to be destroyed with the first; and a Justiceship, or the little share which I should have had in the Militia, would have more endangered then secured me: Therefore it best becomes me, who so well know the world as I do, to retire as much as I can from her entanglements, and those employments wherein I am sure to be a loser. I take most pleasure in those things which no man can give me or take from me; and love not to be tossed in and out, like a dog in a blanket, as I and many better men have been heretofore, according as we were thought upon, or forgotten; or as the Commonwealths friends, or our Maligners, prevailed in Parliaments, Councils, and Committees. Such usage (if no provision be made against it) will make every ingenuous man (whose free-spirit disdains to be made a Shuttlecock for every proud malicious sool to play withal) eat those Places out of which he may be cast with dishonour, how well soever he shall demean himself. I may be very well pleased that I am left out of all Public employments, as the Commonwealths, and my affairs now stand: For I may justly say, as it was of old Prophesied by Isaiah, it should be said at such a time as this, and I do now say it: I will not be a Healer, make me not a Ruler; for in my house there is nor bread nor clothing: for my Country is ruined, and my Countrymen are destroyed, because their words and actions are against the LORD, Isai. 3. There are enough ambitious to be authorized, who have means to support the Charge and Envy that attends public Employments; let the Ruins of these times be under their hands: I am not qualified, (nor the wisest men among us) for such undertake, if this (as I believe it is) be such a time as Esay describes in the same Chapter, the effect of whose words, I will here insert, that you may judge whether it be so or not.  
The Lord of Hosts, doth take away the stay and staff of bread and water; the mighty man, and the man of war; the judge and the prophet; the prudent and the ancient; the Captain of Fifty, and the honourable man; the Counsellor, the cunning Artificer, and the eloquent Orator; Children shall be their Princes, and Babes shall rule over them; the people shall be oppressed every one by another, and every one by his Neighbour; the Child shall behave himself proudly against the ancient, and the Babe against the honourable; they grind the faces of the poor, and the spoil of them is in their houses, etc. Were the Prophet now living, he could not have more lively described this Generation, than it was patterned out in his time, by Jerusalem and Judah, and recorded in his Prophecy; nor can we expect better events thereupon then befell them, if GOD be not extraordinarily merciful. But how can it be amended, whilst malice pride, and avarice do mask self-ends, under public pretences, even when dangers visibly enclose us, and GOD is beginning to visit us again with the Sword? or with what comfort can I or any honest man, serve his Country, where they who should assist him, will rather obstruct his endeavours, and destroy him? verily, if I were in a capacity to serve my Country as I have been heretofore, I am doubtful whether to be put in or left out of public employments, would be most or least hazardous, considering I know not above one person in authority within many miles of the place wherein I must now live, with whom I can more safely associate, or more comsortably converse, then with an open Enemy, or a suspected Familiar; and may truly affirm, that none of those whom I have provoked, by engaging against them and their Party in the Field, on the behalf of my Country, during the Civil War, have to me been half so inhuman and mischievous, (though they are still my enemies) as many are, who seem to befriend me, and that Cause whereto I adhere; yea, though to some of them I have done good Offices, and no disservice, in all my life.  
This, implieth somewhat, which deserveth heed: And if I have any portion of a discerning spirit, I do foresee, that if I be still neglected, as I have been, I shall be but singly exposed a little beforehand, to that disgrace, and outward ruin, which will be more universal within a short time after; and extend to another Overturning, unless there be a more hearty Returning to GOD, by executing Justice, showing Mercy, and Self-denial, than I yet discover. By such a Change, I may be repaired, and eat the Fruits of my former labours in peace, during the rest of my life; else, I must spend my days in bewailing my afflicted Country, and my dearest Relations. Many, in scoff, have called me Prophet; and (though I arrogate not that Title) I have been instead of a Prophet to this Generation; and have had some part of a Prophet's Reward; for, I have met with that contempt and dishonour in my own Country, and among my own Kindred, which usually befell Prophets heretofore. I have not merited to be called a False Prophet, by that mark which the Holy Ghost hath given us, whereby to know him: that is, by foretelling things to come, and endeavouring upon the fulfilling of them, to withdraw men from the true GOD, or from the true way of his Worship: But, I have, thereby taken many times, occasions rather to withdraw men from their sins, and bring them nearer to GOD, by declaring what shall befall the Penitent and Impenitent, according to what is threatened or promised in his Everlasting Word; and, doubtless, whether I be a Prophet or a Poet (which two words in the Greek, signify the same thing) I have done the work of a Prophet among them, in some measure, and it will have effects upon them at last, for their Good or Evil.  
Influences, from the same Spirit which inspired the most ancient Prophets; have been vouchsafed to some in all Ages, relating to men's temporal Weal or Woe, as GOD hath been pleased to prepare them by Fore-warnings, though there hath been since the time of the Apostle, no Prophecies declaring any other Gospel or Principles of saving Faith, but what they have preached or prophesied; and if any man on earth, or Angel from heaven should declare any other, I would not receive it, neither could believe it: By such a proportion of the Spirit, as is conferred on many of GOD's people, I, being assisted in contemplating his Word, wherein his Threaten and Promises be recorded, did fore-declare, both verbally and emblematically in my Britain's Remembrancer, and the Title-Page thereof, long before they came to pass, many Particulars which were fulfilled, in and by the Changes which have been lately in these Islands; and (though more derided then regarded) many of them were accomplished in their sight who scoffed at them, and in part upon the Persons and Estates of those who persecuted me for divulging them. The rest of my Fore-warnings and Conditional Predictions, then and since divulged, (and not yet fulfilled) will hercafter be verified also, though still derided and slighted. Therefore, I will as Jonah did, (but with more charitable expectations than I conceive he had) retire to my Gourd, even to the remainder of my now blasted Estate, which like the soon withering Gourd of Jonah, GOD caused to spring out of nothing, in the dark night of my affliction, to be a subsistence and shalter for me during his pleasure; and I will patiently sit under it, whilst it continues, to observe what will be the Event of those Conditional Threaten and Promises concerning these Nations, which I have to them applied, according to what was prophetically declared, and exemplified of old, to fore-warn and instruct all future Ages; which being the Contemplative Objects, from whence I deduced all my predictions, they were no delusive Enthusiasms, or derivatives from Astrological Speculations, but only from the Const●llations and Aspects, which those blessed Luminaries, the STAR of Jacob, and the Prophets and Apostles have to, and with, each other. That, which these promise or threaten, is all whereunto I have respect in these my Calculations; and, my resolution is, to praise GOD, whether his appearances be in Judgements or Mercies; whether, he so smites my Gourd, (as that of Jonah) until it totally withers, or shall improve it, into a more durable Plant, to be a Refuge and Refreshment for me and mine; yea, whether he preserves me in this time of Troubles until they shall end, or sweeps me away (as I confess I have deserved) in the common Calamity, I will unfeignedly praise him.  
If we do as Nineveh did, the Mercy tacitly conditioned, and thereto vouchsafed, will be our lot; which, I pray, hope and wait for. And that I may sit the more easily, in expectation thereof; as also that the same seasonable Fruit evidencing their Justice and Charity, who are now in Power, may produce comfortable effects to themselves and others, as well as to me, I desire you to whom this shall come, (if it may seem reasonable, and be in you power) to mediate, for one Act of Grace to be vouchsafed on my behalf, which is but this only; that I, who have served my Country in my Generation, according to my Talon, almost 50 years, at my own cost, may be henceforth exempted from Public Officiating and Taxes: Which Favour, considering how early I began to act and suffer; how disadvantaged I have been, how disabled I am by what is detained from me, to bear the Burdens imposed, (and how little time I am likely to enjoy those Privileges) will not overbalance my former services and Contributions, though the like Immunities were vouchsafed also, to one person of my Posterity, whilst it continued. Such Privileges were granted in the most generous times, and it would be an honour to this Commonwealth to revive that practice for an Encouragement to faithful and honest endeavours; yea, and such a mark of their respect conferred on me in these corrupt times, would make it appear to those who live now, and shall live hereafter, that there was always a faithful and well-affected Party in this Parliament, struggling against the Corruptions and Oppressions whereby honest men suffered; and that they prevailed at last, to the exaltation of Justice and Mercy. Your mediation for this respect, together with a timely condescension to the humble Requests in the conclusion of my Narrative (at least so far forth as may consist with the Commonwealths present necessities) will oblige me, by a specialty more than ordinary; and such a respective laying me aside, may not only enable me to do my Country better services in a private condition, than perhaps, my old age can perform in Public Nigotiations; but by that means likewise, the Malignity, Pride and Eavy, which now disturbs my peace, would quite wear out, or at least in some measure abate, when I intermeddle not with those Employments, whereof other men are ambitious.  
To obstruct the granting of such reasonable Requests, and to detract from the Commonwealth's most faithful servants, and other honest men disfavoured by men of corrupt Principles, it hath been the practice of some heretofore (even in Parliaments) causelessly to asperse absent persons, who cannot easily come to take notice of their particular Detractors, or to vindicate themselves. This, to me seemeth a great breach of the Trust reposed in Members of Parliament by their Electors, who impowered them not to execute their private malice, under public pretences: and as it is no mean injury to scandalise a man innocent, before the Representative of his whole Nation; so, it is no less than a capital offence against the Parliament (in my judgement) to endanger the making it guilty of receiving false Accusations, or scandals; which, if it were a natural body, (as it is a Body Politic, that hath nothing to do in heaven) might endanger the admission of it into GOD'S holy hill, according to the judgement of David, in his 15. Psalm. I have here touched upon this, in hope it may be a means of preventing the like practices hereafter. If not, it were but just, that every Member of Parliament, who misrepresents any one absent to his disparagement in that honourable Assembly, should Ipso facto, be incapable of acting, or Voting there for the future, unless he had first submitted to an acknowledgement of his oversight, or made good his Accusation, as one in a private capacity, if he whom he had scandalised were a private person. In this manner, I myself have been abused (as I am informed) as well in relation to my getting of that Estate, which GOD, by his extraordinary providence conferred upon me during my Troubles and Oppressions, heretofore, (by making my enemies more helpful towards it against their wills, than the willingness of all my best friends, or my own endeavours) as also in misreporting touching my sufferings, and actings, in other particulars. Therefore, (that culpable persons may be known as they are, and honest men cleared from Causeless jealousies and aspersions, as much as is possible) I could wish (if the Parliament thought it needful) that a strict scrutiny might be made into every man's dubious actings, wherein the Commonwealth, hath been considerably concerned since the Civil Wars first began; And likewise that an account may be given by every one who became extraordinarily rich while the Commonwealth was impoverished; how, and by what means he hath so enlarged his estate. If what I have heard be true, I am a wonderment in that respect beyond many other; for I am told that a person of Quality, and a neighbour of mine, being in discourse with other Gentlemen concerning those who had increased their estates to admiration from a very poor condition, was pleased to say thus; How— and— got their estates, I very well know, said he, (naming two Parliament-men who had suddenly purchased very large possessions, having very mean estates a little before) but how George Whither became rich, that, quoth he, I wonder at, and cannot imagine. To prevent therefore, such wonderments, let an inquiry be made, beginning first as aforesaid, with me, and be carried on by a Precedendo, until it hath gone round the Nation: and I defy malice and all the world to charge me with what it can.  
It may perhaps be further objected (because, I have heard somewhat tending that way) to the rendering of your mediation for me to this Parliament, the less effectual, that during the time wherein Oliver Cromw●l, by GOD'S permission usurped their power, I was for a Single Person, and endeavoured to maintain his Reputation, in what I might; & magnified the Title of Protector, as most honourable, and pertinent to our well-doing. It is true, that I did so; but my being of that judgement, as our constitution then was, merits no disfavor or neglect: For, I never was absolutely, for, or against, a King, or a Commonwealth, with, or without a Single Person, but according as GOD'S extraordinary dispensations, the present necessities, the Law of Common-justice, and the People's assent in Parliament made it expedient or not expedient; nor otherwise then the most prudent of this Parliament lately seemed to judge thereof. For, either way, a Government may be good or evil. The United Provinces, and some other Commonweals, have well enough subsisted without a Single Person; yet the Venetians (the most flourishing Commonwealth, and of the longest continuance of any since Christ, have their Duke without any visible disadvantage; and the most famous Commonwealth of Israel had a Moses, a Joshua, and other Judges, who successively exercised a single Authority Let that be considered, as also, that it is my Principle to uphold the Power which by GOD'S grace, or permission, is for the time being set over us; and that I may as much as in me lieth, preserve the Common-peace, in a prudential way, until God's Probations are determined, and his secret will, is made manifest. Let it therewith be considered likewise, that in all my Addresses to Oliver Cromwell, and in all things by me publicly or privately Written to him, or done for him, as the then Supreme-Officer, I had evermore a care, to offer unto his remembrance, and to other men's, that, the power permissively only vouchsafed, was but Conditional: and, that if what was tacitly the condition thereof, were not by him performed, it would be at last the destruction of him, and of his Family, or of both, without repentance: and that likewise, the preservation of the People's just Freedoms, both spiritual and temporal (being part of that  condition) was by me insisted upon, so far forth, as it might be done, in those times, and to a person in his place, without making all that to be ineffectual which I principally intended: as would more evidently appear, if all those Caveats and forewarnings were published which I exhibited unto him, and others in private to that purpose, without regarding how disadvantageous it would be to my personal interest, as my affairs then stood, and which were not a little hazarded, and made more destructive by the boldness which I then assumed; who neither basely flattered him, for my own ends, as many did, nor ascribed any thing as due to him in the Place he possessed and exercised, but in order to the Public welfare; and as he had been instrumental (at the People's cost) in conquering those for them, who had formerly deprived them of their liberties: For, I did only commend those Actions of his, which were in themselves commendable, without justifying him in his personal deservings as to the intention, otherwise then their outward appearances might induce me to hope of it; and, whether or no, he was really such as he pretended, could be certainly known to GOD, and to himself only.  
And, whereas, it may be yet further objected, that in some passages of those Poems and Discourses, which have been by me heretofore published or communicated in private, I have averred or implied that the Power of this Parliament was necessarily interrupted, in respect of us, and justly also in respect of GOD, whose justice and mercy, have had thereby the more evident manifestations; I do confess ingenuously that I was, and still am of that judgement; and do believe by the little sorrow, and much rejoicing, which generally appeared in the people both well and illaffected thereunto at the time of their Interruption, that most men were then of my opinion: For, it was not only, undeniably evident, that many proceed were then carried on to the infringement of Common-right, as well as to the multiplying of private Oppressions, by the prevalency of some corrupt Members, over-voting those who were faithful to their Trust; But, that a Malignant party among them, had also brought in, and were then continually bringing in, so many qualified like themselves into their House, and who were so industrious, either to break the Army by dividing it, or, by raising up another against it, that it would probably have restored the Common Enemies to their subdued Power, or brought all to a destructive disunion, and confusion among ourselves. Therefore, GOD, in justice to the one party, and in mercy to the other, made use of that which was perhaps corruptly designed, by some, for their own ends, and converted it, to bring his good purposes to pass; particularly to prevent this Parliaments being everlastingly destroyed, by some of its own Members; To give them and others, an extraordinary experiment, by their Probations, what they were in whom they confided; how little trust there is in men exalted to honour, (how pious, how honest, or how mortified soever they are or pretend to be) and to humble those who are now again restored, that, with thankfulness for his double mercy, in their correction and restauration, they may reform in themselves and others, hereafter, that which was amiss heretofore. To those ends, and for such like, GOD, (as he did Nebuchadnezzer) drove them from the Throne, to live among the Common-herd until almost so many years as he was expelled; whereby, if they be not yet so humbled, as willingly to be remembered of it, to observe their former failings; to acknowledge with an awful rejoicing, these past transactions, and their present mercies and chastisements, to GOD'S honour; & to be merciful to others, as he hath been to them; and at least to excuse me for what I have formerly and now written, with a good Conscience, to preserve my Country's peace, and their honour, without any purpose of dishonouring them (as I hope they will understand it) then, not I alone, but all the well-affected of this Commonwealth, will be much deceived in their expectations: and we must suffer until GOD shall be pleased, to send us other Deliverers, or to deliver us himself: And, I do verily believe, that this Government as a Commonwealth, (or whatsoever it shall be,) will come to no happy, or prosperous Settlement, until it shall first do me justice, who have so long suffered, and been so constantly faithful thereunto; and till they have embraced also, the Counsel of those neglected poor men, who have contributed, and may contribute means for their preservation, who had else been, and shall be destroyed. This belief or suggestion (call it what you will) I cannot expel though my life should depend upon it, and though I have long struggled against it; as proceeding from a selfish overweening: and the ejection of it, is the more difficult, because, when it first possessed me, it entered upon this occasion, which I will faithfully relate. I was many years past, (as I think other men have been during the trials of their patience) more curiously I confess, than became a Christian modesty, desirous to foreknow, what and when, would be the conclusion of those troubles which GOD had brought upon these Nations; and, my inquisitiveness, received this answer out of my own heart: Wouldst thou know the successes before their coming, which GOD hath kept secret? Then, thus much, and by this means know it: Thou in thine own person, and outward condition, shalt be a sign unto thy self, what the event will be, and when: According as thou dost externally prosper, so shall this Government: when thou art relieved by their Justice from thy Oppressions, they shall be, within a while after, delivered from their Confusions; and when thou perceivest, they have left thee to be destroyed, be assured, that their destruction, will not be long after. This may be only a melancholy fancy; but, a short time, will discover, whether it be so, or not; and GOD'S will be done.  
Thus, I sometimes bustle with the world, that, she may know I am not yet dead, though I do otherwise, look sheepishly (they say doggedly) upon my Oppressors, that, they may perceive I am sensible, how they use me; and though I am otherwhile a little surprised with a fit of melancholy, when I consider what my Creditors and Relations do, or may suffer; yet, so little is my heart troubled in respect of myself, that I would not change fortunes with any of them, when my condition is at the worst, and their at the best; For, though they have broken my Estate, and cracked my Credit, if ever they break my heart (unless they break the Trunk, wherein it lies,) I'll forgive them. For,  

Haec mihi manent verba, perituro,  
Nec habeo, nec careo, nec curo:  
Et, Veriora forent, in futuro.   

When I was young, these Words my Motto were  
I, neither have, nor do I want, or care:  
And, Death, will make them truer than they are.   
Make use of these hints, as opportunities are offered, and as GOD, shall move your heart, who worketh out sometimes, by as ridiculous attempts as this may seem, effects which could not be brought to pass by a more likely means. Saul went forth to seek only his Father's Asses, but found a Kingdom; and perhaps, I who at first, hereby intended no more than to be eased from my personal Oppressions, may find somewhat thereby at last effected, which will give motion to that which will cure all our Public Grievances. GOD, I hope will incline this Generation, before it be too late, to do that which will be most for his glory and the Common-safety; which is an unfeigned execution of Justice and showing of mercy, according to the mercies received; and, whereby only, that great breach, newly made, can be so stopped, that another Inundation of blood, break not in upon us. That acceptable Sacrifice of righteousness, will drive away those Judgements which yet hang over our heads, and procure such a blessing upon the Parliament, that it shall be enabled to settle a Government, which may preserve both our spiritual and temporal Freedoms, inviolated, and from entrenching upon each other. A little Frankincense sincerely offered, appeaseth much wrath; and perhaps, one hour, timely spent, to hear the Cause of a private Sufferer, ready to be destroyed, may be so acceptable, that it shall produce more toward a settlement in one week, than was effected in two months before; and their Oil and Meal, shall be rather increased then diminished, by making him a little Cake, out of that little which is left, if their faith be not more consumed, than the provisions in the Cruze and Barrel.  
If there be any Expressions in this Epistle, or in any of my Papers relating to the Grievances, whereof I complain, which may seem oversharp; be pleased to consider how much I have suffered, and how long solicited, without effecting any thing but an increase of my Grievances; and let that plead my excuse: If any shall be offended, that I declare those Truths (which many are not willing to hear of) in such Language, and in such a mode, as is not usual with oppressed Suppliants; Let it be considered, that this is a time, wherein the deaf, dumb and blind Devils which possoss men, are not to be cast out by ordinary Charms: and that, I am yet left in a worse condition, than many of the Commonwealths most malicious enemies, their guiltiness excepted: For, my life and estate being innocently taken away, would have been a mercy, compared to that shame and vexation of spirit, which my Oppressions have occasioned at sometimes, not only, by the scandalous upbraid and importunities of my necessitous Creditors, and by the sense which I have often had of exposing my dearest Relations to unsufferable wants and griefs; or by the endangering and losing my Credit, as well as my Estate; But, also, by some secret trials of my saith and patience, in concernments of a higher nature, whereof the world shall never know.  
Thus much, being expressed, for the reasons aforementioned, and to ease my heart, by ordering into words, some part of those many confused thoughts, which lay troublesomely indigested within me; it hath made my condition seem to be more tolerable, than I thought it of late; and it hath somewhat quieted my mind, because, this will partly answer for me, to many objections made in places, where I shall not be present to hear them: it may also save or recover some part of my Credit, by declaring to those whom it may concern, that my failing a while the Expectations of my Creditors, proceeded not from any dishonest principle, or purposed wrong, but from inavoidable necessities; and that it ariseth not from any dissatisfaction to the present Government, that I am not so serviceable thereto as I have been, and should still be, (notwithstanding all former neglects) if I had been able.  
I have somewhat more to add, and feel a Rapture coming upon me, which will constrain me to declare, that which is more considerable than my private Grievances; But Prose is not so proper to that subject, as Versisying; and therefore, I will walk to the conclusion of what remains, upon my Feet in Verse.   


THough very much, and long, I have endured,  
And,  Griefs, must desp'ratly be cured;  
I, try no extaordinary Courses,  
Till strong necessity thereto enforces:  
For, though sometimes, I feel so great a smart,  
That, I am therewith pinched at the heart,  
I, still find ease, within a little space,  
By Patience, well prepared with Herbgrace.   

My Genius, lately moved me to this Charm,  
(Which, if it doth no good, can do no harm)  
And, therefore, I thus prove it: GOD, direct  
And, bless it, with a prosperous effect:  
For, if what overhangs us, at this time,  
Nor Prayers, Narrative, nor Prose, nor Rhyme,  
Nor Reason, can incline this Generation  
In sixteen years, to Justice, or Compassion,  
I, shall believe my days of private mourning,  
Must, till another Publick-overturning  
Prolonged be; or, else, till I shall have  
A Cure for all my Sufferings, in the Grave.   

However, (as I do) I will till then  
To keep my Claims on foot, employ my Pen  
Sometimes in private, to make Proof of those  
Who to the World-ward, have made holy shows  
That either by their aid, I may obtain,  
What, I have long petitioned for in vain;  
Or, that to men unborn, I may declare  
How merciless, their Predecessors, were;  
How shamelessly unjust; how may ways  
GOD proved them; how many several days,  
Weeks, months and years, he waited, to make trial,  
How long, they would defer that self-denial  
Which they had voted; and that, times to come,  
May glorify GOD, in the Final Doom;  
Which, to the World, will openly be known  
In greater Judgements, or, in mercy shown,  
When our three Factions, parallel to them,  
Which were the Ruin, of Jerusalem  
Have acted out, their Parts; and left the Stage,  
To those, who shall begin another Age.   

GOD, is the same, in all his Attributes  
(Whate'er to him, our Vanity imputes)  
And, just now, by the Eyes of Contemplation,  
I see a mixed-Cup in preparation,  
Wherein, such Drugs are blended, sharp & sweet,  
As, for our present Maladies are meet;  
By which, I guess, what things may come to pass,  
As Good, or Evil Counsels we embrace;  
And, I will tell my Thoughts, though being told,  
I fear, they will be slighted as of old:  
For, I confess, that which my Soul foresees,  
She sees like him, who saw, men walk like trees.   

The ruin of that BEAST, is now at hand,  
Which doth as yet, the HOLY-LAMB withstand;  
And, he of late, hath so affrighted been,  
Lest, his approaching Downfall must begin  
Among these Nations, that, with all his might.  
He seeketh means his Vassals to unite  
Who must assist him; and in secret wise,  
He hath conveyed hither, in disguise,  
Those Locusts, which ascended with a smoke,  
Whereby, they unperceived, Disguizes took  
Of several Forms, resembling many Creatures  
Of differing Shapes, and of as differing Natures,  
To hid their Fraud; These, lately power have had  
By Sorceries, to make the people mad,  
And, by fomenting Discords, to destroy  
The means, whereby, that peace they might enjoy  
Which would preserve them, & prepare a path  
To that great work, which God determined hath.   

For, though the sons of Belial, do condemn  
This Power, which God hath now set over them,  
Because, in outward show, no such effect  
Is like to spring, from thence, as they expect;  
Yet, shall the Power (against which many prate,  
And rail, and write, maliciously of late)  
Henceforth, from Violence, protected stand;  
And be destroyed by no mortal hand  
Except their own; and, till they shall in heart  
From just and pious Principles departed:  
But, either quite destroy, or foil all those,  
Who, them, in their Authority oppose.   

Yea, though, those Interruptions they have had,  
Whereby, they are not, now, so able made  
As they may be, when time, adds thereunto  
Compleatness, for the work they have to do:  
They are, all that's remaining at this season,  
Conducible thereto, in humane Reason;  
And, what to disadvantage them, doth seem,  
May give them, at the last, the more esteem.  
The more contemptible, they now are thought,  
The more dishonour will on them be brought  
Whom they subdue. If, they be poor, and weak,  
The louder, to his glory, will that speak  
Which, he, by them effects, who foils proud Kings  
And mighty Foes, by despicable things.   

This, is the power, whereto we should adhere;  
And, though to many men, it doth appear  
Both by deficiency of Members lame,  
(And, some, still to retain, who do it shame)  
'Tis GOD's Reserve, to save us from the Curse  
Which we deserve: and we should make a worse  
(As we are qualifide) if, he, now should  
Permit things to be done, as many would,  
Who know not, what some underhand intent,  
That make fair shows, their Freedoms to befriend.   

GOD, hath like Daniel in the Lion's Den  
Them, from the beastly rage, of brutish men  
Preserved hitherto, (e'en, when to me  
It seemed impossible, they safe could be)  
And, this not for their righteousness was done;  
But, merely for his mercy sake alone,  
That, those few, who their trust in him repose,  
Be not insulted over by their Foes.  
For, in them now, the safety doth consist  
Of every justly-claimed interest,  
And, of each person, who seeks not to do  
Those things, that are destructive thereunto;  
Or, to himself, by breaking of that peace  
Which tendeth to our gen'ral happiness.   

If to make up this Representative  
There do remain but forty men alive  
Of all those persons, which all England thorough  
Should represent each City, Shire and Burrow,  
If they be persons principled aright,  
Who in the fear of GOD themselves unite,  
They shall perform the work that's to be done,  
As if of their full number wanted none:  
Nay, better, though among them there be some  
Who to that work destructive would become.  
That number, them, doth lawful constitute  
By Custom, and for Action doth repute  
Sufficient (whilst together they shall stay)  
Though all the rest absent themselves away,  
And to exclude all, who offensive are,  
Though, one half of their hands and eyes they were.   

They are essentially, as fully free  
To all Intentions, as they need to be,  
Or can be now made, without extirpation  
Of that, which is for common preservation,  
Made lawful, by a Law confirming more  
True, Sovereignty, than any heretofore;  
Even by a sentence, for this Commonweal.  
Decreed by him, from whom there's no appeal:  
And all the Arguments which I have yet,  
Herd or perused, to invalid it,  
Are so infirm, so frivolous and vain,  
That, whilst it here, a Being shall retain;  
I'll add thereto, my help, to make them strong,  
Whether to me, they shall do right or wrong.  
Which help, though chief it, consists in words,  
Will sometimes be as useful as their swords,  
Unless despised: And, if they can believe  
What will be said, such help, this Charm will give,  
Though it gins with terors. Mark it well:  
For, 'tis a helpful and a lawful SPELL.   

The Drums are beaten up. The Trumpet sounds  
Alarms, threatening future Deaths or Wounds.  
That Grand Conspiracy; which was foretold  
And typified, by israels foes, of old,  
Is forming up a Body, to prevent  
What may arise out of this Parliament;  
Ashur, and Ammon, Amaleck, and Tyre,  
Yea, Earth and Hell, against them, now conspire.  
Their Foes, from all parts, do begin to cluster,  
Gog, Magog, and the Man of Sin do muster  
Their Forces up. In their own bosom, lies  
An Ambush too, of dangerous enemies;  
And, nothing gives me so much cause of fear,  
As, that, which may lie hid in secret, there.   

Yet that fear, is surmounted far by Hope,  
Which, hath unto despairing set a stop:  
For, they are that small Remnant, whence may spring  
Those Armies, of our everlasting ●ing,  
Which will subdue the world, and set his Throne  
Upon the ruins of great Babylon,  
IF, they desert not, what they have professed,  
And, in his favour, lose their interest:  
That IF, remembering (lest before the I,  
We set the F, and cry aloud, Oh FI)  
Let them be mindful, in humiliation,  
That this year, is their last year of Probation;  
And of all wilful failings, now take heed,  
Lest worse things, than befell them, do succeed.   

Let them take courage also, and not fear  
What, they shall either suffer, see, or hear:  
For, he that saves by few; the wise, befools,  
Defeats the strong, and works with any tools  
Resideth yet among them; and will never  
Forsake them, whilst they do their best endeavour.  
That, so it may be done, let them still mind,  
Both what's before them, and what lies behind.  
Let them remember, He that stands may fall,  
That, every promise is conditional;  
And, that, GOD's promises, will be to them  
Performed, as they to others, and to Him  
Perform their promises: for, though this wrong  
He pardons ofttimes, and forbeateth long,  
There is a set time, which now draweth near,  
In which, he will, no longer, so forbear.   

Let no man slight these Cautions, though by him,  
Pronounced, who may despicable seem:  
For, in these days, it often comes to pass  
That, GOD, speaks, (as to Balaam by his Ass)  
To wisest men, by those whom Fools they deem;  
To Kings, by persons that ignoble seem;  
And, if their Wills, as wilfully as he  
They shall pursue, like his, their End shall be.   

This Power now ruling, reigns by God's Commission;  
Yet, not without a fore-premised condition:  
For, by unrighteousness, it shall not stand,  
Though it were as the Signet on his hand.  
If, they themselves with outward washings, flatter,  
And shall not cleanse the inside of the platter;  
If, those defects of Justice and Compassion  
Which lately brought Consusions on this Nation,  
Be not forthwith repaired in some-degree,  
(As means by GOD's grace, will vouchsafed be.)  
And, if a Model truly Genuine,  
This August sixteen hundred fifty nine,  
Be not conceived, and fully born, before  
The time, exceeds the end of nine months more,  
With all the essential parts, of such a thing,  
As may receive a timely perfecting,  
(To qualify that Rage, which may increase  
The Breaches made into the Common-peace)  
Then, all that this Power, thenceforth can endeavour,  
Will either be a nullity for ever;  
Or else, a furtherance, to that horrid pother  
Which will make facile entrance for another  
Oppressing hand, that, will but Justice do  
So far, as Vengeance doth amount unto.   

Hear this with patience; although spoke by me:  
Consider well, if thus it may not be,  
All ye, whom it concerns: For Israel's Rock,  
(Who hates requiting mercies with a mock)  
Hath said, that he must rule with Righteousness  
Who doth o'er men, a ruling power possess;  
And, we have felt, that Piety is vain,  
Unless therewith morality, doth reign.   

But, all may yet be well; unless, the Beast  
With many heads, mars their own interest  
By ignorance, or wilful disobeying;  
Or else, our trusties (by our trust betraying)  
Fail in performing, at their promised day,  
That, which is hoped for, and for which we pray.  
Most awful GOD ' who when this world was made,  
Gav'st that a Being, which not Being had:  
Whose Wisdom, from a Chaos made of nought,  
All things into a perfect order brought;  
And, by thy Word, eternally Divine,  
Didst out of Darkness, cause the Light to shine;  
Enable those, who have the present Power,  
To act, what will be for their Weal and our.  
And now, Oh all ye people of this Land,  
At their need, aid them, with a liberal hand  
And loyal heart, to act for your avail:  
Let not the fault be yours, if they shall fails  
Lay all your Animosities aside,  
For, though to them dishonour may betid,  
The Consequence thereof, will make you sorry:  
Their shame, will be the ruin of your glory.  
If, otherwise it happen, what success  
May follow, 'twill be needless to express,  
And, to prevent it, I, thus often, here,  
Add this word IF, (which else less needful were)  
For, great will be our sorrows, when they shall  
Unmindful be of that conditional.   

We many ways lie open to perdition;  
And, GOD, hath Magazines of Ammunition  
Enough, to punish, all Offenders, either  
Singly; in parties; or else, all together  
As he shall please: yet, he vouchsafes a show,  
Of such things, as he probably may do;  
That, we, our wills, and practices may bend  
To act with Him, in what he doth intent.   

Those Judgements, may not all at once ensue,  
Which may be feared, and will be justly due;  
For, GOD's Long-suffering, shall perhaps once more  
Justice with Mercy mix, as heretofore;  
And, prove us, by a means, that some abhor,  
And, other some, have madly longed for.   

We have a Grand-Foe, whom he laid aside,  
And, will reserve, till he hath foolified  
Their Expectations, who forgetful grow  
Of what they suffered, but a while ago:  
And, as he showed how mischievous a thing,  
The Jews desired, when they craved a King,  
By granting of it: (that, they might perceive  
By feeling, what they would not else believe)  
So, by the like Experiment, perchance,  
He'll once more, cure this Nation's ignorance:  
Because, the gracious sentence by him given  
On their behalves, within the Court of Heaven,  
Hath been by them despised, and contemned,  
By siding with the party, there condemned.   

Good GOD! how dare such Traitors to pretend  
Their Country's Laws, and freedoms to befriend?  
What Humane Law, or Power, will such as they  
With Conscience, or due Loyalty obey,  
Who disobey Thine? Justify thy Foes?  
Thy awful sentence, wilfully oppose?  
And, either will have him, to fill the Throne,  
Whom Thou hast thence ejected, or else none?   

This Provocation, may thy Justice move  
(By some enlargement of his Chain) to prove  
How fit, for what he claims to be his own,  
That Out-cast, is by thy Corrections grown.  
At that time, (if, it possible shall be  
That such a time, may be vouchsafed by thee)  
If, he, unfeignedly himself resign  
To that Course, which thy Providence Divine  
May dictate, to complete an Instrument  
For settling such an equal Government  
As by thy Laws, and by the Laws of Nature,  
Belonged of old unto the humane-Creature,  
And, will conduce unto the Common-good,  
Without expense of Treasure, or of Blood;  
A Blessing might succeed unto these Nations,  
Beyond our present hopes and expectations:  
And, they, who now are plotting to make void  
Thy purposes; would see their own destroyed.  
Then, should the glorioust work be brought to pass,  
That ever for man's good, designed was;  
And, way made, for that Kingdom, which their pride  
Doth, as a mere Fanatic Dream deride;  
And which, some Saints, too, (who in faith attend  
The coming of it) much misapprehend,  
By fanc'ing things, which greatly inconsist  
With such a Kingdom, as is that of CHRIST.  
Whose final Conquests, not a Carnal-Sword  
Must make; but, that twoedged one, the Word;  
Even that victorious Instrument, the Truth,  
Which doth proceed out of his sacred-mouth.  
And, they, whom he doth arm against his Foes  
With t'other Sword, are but in place of those  
By whom the trees & stones, were field & squared,  
When matter for the Temple was prepared:  
Partly by servants of the King of Tyre,  
(Who wrought not for God's honour, but for hire)  
Partly by solomon's; who did intent  
Their labours, to a far more noble end.   

If, he premised, shall have an intent  
This way to act; and such a settlement  
Can bring to pass, as may preparatory  
Unto the Kingdom of God's Grace and Glory  
Appear to be; he, thereby should attain  
More honour, then to repossess again  
The Kingdoms lost, and to have thereunto  
Annexed, three times thrice, as many more:  
For, then, that Roman-Monarchy, whose date  
From her full-growth, with His, who sprang from that  
Seems numb'red, to the set time of their falls,  
In that sum, which her proper numerals  
Make up (when simply joined in numeration  
According to their worth in valuation,  
Reckoning from that year in which CHRIST was slain,  
And in which, Rome did to her height attain)  
Should fall by his aid; and win him a share  
In that, which for thy Saints, thou dost prepare;  
And I do wish he may (by shunning that  
Which hazards it, before it be too late)  
Be partner in that honour, if it be  
No bar, to what determined is by Thee.   

He, might, then, possibly survive to view  
How far forth my Conjecture will prove true,  
Who (finding that the length of Satan's chain,  
And of the time in which that BEAST must reign,  
Are, as they should ensue successively,  
Summed, in M. D. C. L. X. V and I,  
Which takes in every Roman numeral)  
Do guess the time, when Babylon shall fall;  
Will yet be forty years, or thereabout.  
In which account, although I may be out,  
Of this I'm certain; that it shall not stand  
Beyond thy time, and that thy time's at hand.   

But, should God (unto whom alone 'tis known,  
What special mercy, shall to him be shown)  
Vouchsafe to prove him, and he then contemn  
That Course, which Justice will propose to him,  
As probably he will, and covet that,  
Which was by others, lately aimed at.  
If, he strive, to establish such a Throne  
As his forefathers lately sat upon;  
He, may prolong the Judgements, and the wrath  
Which, on these Isles, God's Angel poured hath  
He, may be vexed, and enraged like them  
Who, when they should repent, do but blaspheme;  
As many now do, and as 'twas foretold  
That (when GOD'S wrath, was poured out) they would.  
He, may defer the mercies, which appear  
To many of the Saints, approaching near:  
But, nothing better can be hoped from  
That Kingdom, which his Party prays may come,  
Or from himself; till we more cause have got  
To trust him, than his falsehood to the SCOT  
May promise; or, their Tutoring, from whom  
He, freighted, with ill Principles may come.   

Almighty God (should he be pleased to prove him)  
Can suddenly destroy him, or remove him  
If he, when readmitted, tyrannised,  
Or, from what he professed, apostatised:  
He, that can make the worst thing serve his ends,  
As well as that, which to his pleasure bends,  
May make what proofs he will: But, we who know  
No more, than what time, and events do show,  
Must Act as Reason dictates: Else, we shall  
Or may be ruined, by what will befall.   

If we well weigh what hazards they will make  
Who, to keep tame that Lion undertake,  
which from the dam hath lived wild in the wood,  
And been a long time fed with human ●bloud,  
And also, what a charge, and what a pain  
It is to keep him always in a chain.  
If, we heed well, what Plagues unsufferable,  
It threatens, hither to admit the Rabble  
Of Malcontents, which that ejected King,  
Would with him, by his readmission bring;  
How much, those will deceive their expectation,  
Who are most zealous of his restauration;  
And, that, our charge, our dangers & our trouble,  
They will in likelihood, much more than double,  
Rather than make our miseries the less,  
Or, bring with them, a settlement of Peace;  
These & such things considered, we, are more  
Than madmen, if we him again restore;  
Unless, GOD sends him for a punishment,  
Or makes him such a real penitent  
As was Manasses; whereof, we yet have  
No signs, nor so much faith as to believe  
So great a Miracle, when there is nought  
To us appearing, why it should be wrought.   

I, writ not thus (and, GOD, so prosper me,  
As this is truth) that, he debarred should be  
From aught, which for his weal might be enjoyed;  
But, that, my Country's weal be not destroyed.  
I am no Foe to him, because that so  
He is to me; but, as my Country's foe,  
Or, one, who seeks unjustly to become  
Possessed of that, which GOD debars him from;  
And, I believe, (whate'er he, may suppose,)  
Scarce one man in a hundred, among those  
Who, now his cause, or him, seems to befriend,  
Doth it, for any conscionable end,  
Or love to him, so much, as out of hate  
To those, who now possess the Chair of State,  
Through hate, or Envy; or, in hope that they  
Shall by a change, be profited some way:  
And that the most part, moved through levity  
Neither considering, what they do, or why  
They so would have it, only, ebb and flow  
According as the present wind doth blow:  
For, most of these are but deluded Fools;  
Men, from malignant Families, or Schools  
New come; or, else, of desperate Estates,  
Or, of cracked Credits, or of cracked brain'd-pates;  
(Or, such as live by vanity and sin)  
Who, most desirous are to bring him in.  
And, I believe, that all men, whom he draws  
To join with him, shall perish in his Cause.   

Tho some, (whom we know liars, and intent  
To cheat us,) very much of late commend  
His manners, praise his meekness, magnify  
His Christian Patience, and his piety;  
And have induced some honest men, to hope  
He is not so vowed vassal to the Pope  
As we have heard: yet, they who find the fraud,  
And purposes, of those who him applaud;  
(As also, whereunto they, are inclined,  
Who publish this,) are not become so blind,  
As not to see the bottom, and the end  
Whereto their words and their endeavours tend.  
And, these (not without cause) are much afraid  
A Wolf, may in a Lambskin, be arrayed.  
These fear, that from the Scarlet Strumpets Cup  
He, and his Party, have such dregs drunk up,  
That, they are now in those Distemperatures,  
Which renders them incapable of cures;  
And, so much, with those vanities, besotted  
Whereon most Princes of the earth have doted,  
That, these, when their hopes, are at height, will feel  
(Like ill-wrought clay, upon a Potter's wheel)  
Themselves, to dirt be crumbled in the making;  
Or, crack, and break to pieces, in the baking:  
And, that, whate'er the People's dotages  
May promise, there will be no hope in these  
Or in their Prince; unless there may be given  
A testimonial of their change from heaven:  
Nor, will it be for our advantage, then,  
Unless, we also, be reform men.   

How, GOD, of him, or will of us dispose  
Is kept in secret, and he, only knows:  
But, whether, he shall better be, or worse,  
(Likely to be a blessing, or a curse)  
He, neither is so good, nor yet so bad,  
But, he, or such another, will be had  
As we demean or selves. Such, as are we,  
Such, every way, our Governors will be.  
For, GOD, gives every People, as their deuce,  
Such men to be their Princes as they choose;  
And whether, good or bad, puts them together,  
To be a curse, or blessing to each other;  
Till them from their allegiance he shall free,  
As their demerits, or their merits be  
Relating to themselves, or unto him,  
That is the Sovereign over both of them.   

Ah! were this Generation, but as wise  
As complete, in their martial Bravaries;  
Or, but as meek, as they are wise in show,  
And knew as well, the things they do not know  
As those they do; and could more lay aside  
Their avarice, their selfness, and their pride,  
Which bar them from the knowledge, & the love  
Of that, which would their best expedient prove:  
They would begin, their failing more to mark;  
Find how they grope, and stumble in the dark,  
And, GOD, would give them open eyes to see  
How, and whereby, their peace might settled be;  
And that the Course whereby they thought to flourish  
Is but a by-path, to their ways that perish.   

As we are yet, our struggle be in vain,  
To cast our burdens, and shake off, our chain:  
We do, but, when one side, doth scorch & burn,  
The other side, upon the Gridiron turn:  
Or, shall but leap, (do whatsoe'er we can)  
Into the Fire, out of the frying-pan;  
Till, we our duties, better think upon  
To GOD-ward, than we hitherto have done;  
Until more generally, we do obey  
This Power, which over us now beareth sway;  
Till also, they make good the expectation  
Conceived, since their additional-probation;  
And, till among these Nations, here be seen  
A greater change, than hitherto hath been.   

But, what change can here be, to set all right,  
But such a change, as must destroy us quite,  
And make all new? unless, the change be made  
By him, from whom, all things their being had?  
Or, some expedient, or reserve be found  
Like that, made use of, when the World was drowned?  
For, most among us, are grown so depraved,  
That, very few, can to Good use be saved.  
Their wisdom, power and wealth, most men employ  
The welfare of each other to destroy.  
The Common-people, do not understand  
Those things, which GOD, and men have now in hand;  
And, give assistance to rebellious Forces,  
By rail, imprecations, skoffs and curses,  
Instead of Prayers; and, so mis-believe,  
That, now, no Charmer, can them undeceive.  
So harsh and general a Diapaze  
Of discords, in no Climate ever was  
Since in Jerusalem the triple-faction  
, wrought incurable distraction.  
No People ever were so blind, so giddy,  
So vain, so false, mad, foolish, and so heady,  
But, where a sad unparallelled confusion  
Threatened to bring a terrible Conclusion.   

They, like to Sampsons' Foxes, from each other  
Turn heads; but, are united so together  
With Firebrands, by their tails, that, as well they  
Who run the same, as they which thwart their way  
Destroy the Cornfields thorough which they run,  
And, meet with greater-mischiefs than they eat   

He, that oppresseth, doth of those complain  
Who, do apparent wrongs by him sustain;  
And, oft, finds means to tell so smooth a tale,  
That innocence is dashed against the wall:  
He, that the truth, nor loves, nor tells, nor teaches,  
Writes, fights, pretends, yea, pays, and prays, and preaches,  
As if he did profess it without guile;  
Yet, is a friend to falsehood, all the while.  
Some, without honesty, the truth profess,  
Some, hold the truth, but in unrighteousness;  
And, twixt these two, (as they the power divide)  
CHRIST, and most honest men are crucified.   

With Tragedies, they make their Party glad,  
And, joy in that, for which good men are sad.  
They love no news, like that which breedeth strife,  
Lies, (as if they were nourishments of life)  
They feast on; and at them, who their untruths  
Disown, they storm, as if then, from their mouths  
The bread were snatched: yea, when they know them false,  
They love to tell, and hear, seditious tales,  
By which the Common-peace may be over thrown,  
Although thereby, they quite destroy their own,  
And multiply those burdens, which, they lay  
To their Charge, who, had took them else away;  
Or, if not hindered in their enterprise,  
By malice, falsehood, and Apostasies.   

Their slanderous Tongues, and Pens, whom wound they not  
Save him that is unknown, or else forgot.  
They skoff, and jeer (not wickedness and folly,  
which may be jeered) but things that are most holy:  
And, since times round began, no humane eyes  
Did read so many cursed blasphemies,  
So much profaneness, and scurrility,  
Or such impure and filthy ribaldry,  
As in this Isle, hath in so little space,  
Been published, to our National disgrace.  
But, what can more from those expected be  
Who think none but licentious men are free?  
And, whose ambition, more affects to have  
The freedom of a Beast, or of a Slave,  
Then that which both by nature, and by grace,  
Belongs of right, unto the humane race?   

Like earboared slaves, (who, bondmen have been made  
So long, that, when their freedom may be had  
They slight it) so do these; and, as conceiving  
There were, no possibility of living  
In this world, (or hereafter to be saved)  
Except they served a Tyrant, and were slaved;  
They, now rebelliously, a Captain choose  
To lead them back to bondage, like the Jews;  
As if it were designed by these Nations  
To be like them, in all their deviations.   

Oaths, against Oaths, and Covenants are took,  
Fit to be repent of, and broke  
Then to be kept; and, Piety, they make  
A seeming warrant to infringe and break  
That which obligeth all men's Consciences,  
And, wherewith, nor GOD'S Laws, nor man's dispenses,  
Thus, at this present, constituted is  
This Nation; and, what change, must mend all this?   

Oh madmen! (if ye are not so bereft  
Of reason, that among you none is left)  
Be you yourselves the Judges, if I lay  
That to your charge, which is not as I say.  
Or, whether I dared say it, in a time  
So wicked, without warranty from him,  
Who, in this sad day. of our Visitation  
Inclines me to it, for your preservation.   

To cure these Frenzies for his future glory,  
GOD, is preparing a New-purgatory,  
To purge what may be purged from the dross,  
That, of the Pure Gold there may be no loss.  
The Judgements, now beginning, shall go round,  
And through these Islands, till all those are found  
Who have been false, in that which they professed  
To GOD, or to the Publick-Interest.  
From house to house, from man to man, they shall  
Procession make, till they have seized on all.  
All shall be proved, whether poor they be  
Or rich, or, of a high or low degree,  
By outward, or by inward fiery trials,  
Till they are brought to real self-denials  
Twixt GOD and them, through mercy to repent  
Their failings; or, to outward chastisement.   

Those, who shall in this Island, scape his hand,  
Vengeance, will seize on, in a Forraign-Land:  
The Foes of Peace among the Common-rout,  
A Pestilence, or Famine shall root out.  
They, who have shuffled from the Soldier's fury,  
Shall fall into the mercy of a Jury;  
And, when they, from the Sword, are in some hope  
To hid; shall then be hampered in a Rope.  
The mischiefs they have shunned in the street,  
Within a secret Chamber, they shall meet.  
Those men, whom nothing publicly pursues,  
Their Consciences, in private, shall accuse;  
They, who immovably do think to stand,  
Shall fall, without the motion of a hand;  
And when the things they feared, cannot annoy them  
That, which they slight, and fear not, shall destroy them.   

Exceeding dreadful, during such probations,  
Will be the many sufferings of these Nations,  
Except those days be short'ned, or GOD, shall  
Enable to sustain what may be fall.  
For, that, which now is coming to the Test,  
Is not, alone, the people's interest,  
As, what was lately controverted here  
Betwixt them, and deceased Oliver;  
Or, him and Stewart: or, a thing so vain▪  
As now, the Dane and Swede, or France & Spain  
Are striving for: But, whether good or evil;  
CHRIST, or the Man of Sin, GOD, or the Devil  
Shall have the Sovereignty; and woe to those  
Who shall, that righteous interest oppose,  
Which is to be decided, when the day  
Shall come, to set their battles in array.   

But, 'tis already come; at least, so nigh  
As to be seen by Contemplation's eye.  
'tis come; and, (though not, as 'tis misconceived  
By those, who have a Throne for CHRIST contrived,  
As carnal as that is, which now must fall)  
It will ere long, be visible to all,  
Who have that eyesalve, which may help their eyes,  
To see Truth shining through dark mysteries.  
The Banners, of both Parties are displayed;  
Both their Militia's, are in part arrayed;  
The soldier's wages, on both sides is known,  
The secret word, on many is bestown:  
And, not one Promise doth to me appear  
Of an escape, from that, which men may fear,  
Save, as in their Probations, they make good  
Their charge, (though to the losing of their blood  
If need require) with trusting to that grace,  
Which, neither Is, nor shall be, nor e'er was  
To any wanting, who did not refuse it,  
Nor when it is received, shall abuse it.   

But, what will follow, can alone be known  
To them, on whom that grace shall be bestown;  
Or, by th● Events, of those Contingencies,  
Which from a just progression, will arise;  
And, must, the steps-probationary be  
To that, which is GOD's absolute Decree;  
For, whose accomplishment, I will attend  
Till that time comes, or, till my life shall end.   

Here, I had ended; but it fares with me  
As with him, who, again shall never see  
Those he departs from; and would leave behind him,  
Somewhat, to make them, otherwhile to mind him.  
Thus, would I do; or, rather, if I may  
Make others mind themselves; & what this day  
Seems drawing nigh. Oh, let him, with regard,  
That speaks for you, (not for himself) be heard.   

Let him, Oh England's Representative,  
Who, now, hath but a little time to live,  
(And, fain would write, or say, before he dies,  
That, for thy Weal, which thou shouldst not despise)  
Let him this once be heard, with that respect  
Which may produce a rational effect,  
Lest, all thy Consultations, Cost and Pain,  
Do prove at last, to be bestowed in vain.   

To him, who to your selves, did you restore,  
Your selves resign, more now, then heretofore;  
And, seek not, like your tyrannising Kings,  
At this time, to contrive and settle things  
More for your selves, then to advantage those  
Who, trust in you, for better ends repose;  
Or, to advance your Freedoms, more than their  
Just Rights, for whose sake, they conferred are.   

Let not him, suffer more, who shall accuse  
For breach of trust, than they who trust abuse,  
As heretofore: For, there was once a time  
Wherein, to charge a Member, for a crime,  
Was prosecuted with a greater zeal  
Than his Gild, who, than wronged the Common-weal:  
Even when to Stangate, yea, (some say) well nigh  
To Lambeth-house, the People heard them cry,  
'Tis for a MEMBER: and preserved was he  
Within that House, who ought expelled to be:  
And, all the mercy, to th' Accuser shown,  
Was, to be kept a Prisoner in his own.  
But they who did it, were by Providence  
Cast out; GOD keep all such, for ever thence.   

Consider whether there do not, as yet  
To your own knowledge, men among you sit  
Who much obstruct the mercies, GOD intends,  
And, your progression in those righteous ends  
Which you propose. (I mean not any one  
Who errs through humane Frailty; For, then none  
Should be excused) but such as do transgress  
Through Envy, and malicious wilfulness;  
Or such Presumers, who, as Achan did,  
Took Gold & raiment (things, that were forbid,  
On danger of a Curse) such as bereave  
The poor of their subsistence; or deceive  
The Commonwealth; and whom their Avarice  
To other things unlawful did entice,  
Whereby oppressed Innocents' are wronged,  
And Justice to their ruin, is prolonged.   

Consider, what may be the sad event  
Where any such as these, are prevalent;  
And, if you find such, and desire to thrive,  
To them, in time, their due demerits give;  
For, why, by palliating of their guilt,  
Should your blood, like the Benjamites be spilt,  
Who brought on their whole Tribe, a wrath divine,  
For murdering but one Levites Concubine?   

Consider, when your Pardons were bestown,  
Whether it were not for ends of your own;  
Moore to secure yourselves, or to befriend  
The Nations Foes, who on your Grace depend;  
Or, otherwhile, because, you durst not do  
That Justice, which you were obliged unto,  
Much rather, then sincerely to express  
Your love to mercy, and to righteousness.  
If so, you find, it; then, betimes lament  
Your failings, and effectually repent.   

Consider, if, when we, to pacify  
The wrath of GOD, a day shall sanctify  
In Fast, or Thanksgivings; whether, he  
Can pleased with those sacrifices be,  
Which cost us, nothing, but to spend a day,  
(And formally, to pass some hours away)  
In Emptiness, or Fullness; or, to hear  
Those sins reproved, which, we will not forbear;  
Yet, not to leave behind us, till the morrow,  
One symptom, of true thankfulness, or sorrow?  
Had it not then been fit, to lay aside  
Some part of what, in Vanity and Pride  
Hath been consumed; their sufferings to relieve,  
Who cannot from the Public purse receive  
What is their due, until GOD shall restore  
Abilities, to make that Pittance more?   

Consider, (since among you there are some,  
Who, do believe, a Kingdom is to come,  
Whereof CHRIST must be King) whether or no  
Your Government, should not be modelled so;  
That, when the People, shall Elect by Voice  
Double trusties; GOD should by lot make choice  
Of which him pleaseth? When that we have had  
Our Option, wherefore should not His be made?  
So 'twas, when Isr'el, first a King enjoyed,  
And, when the first Apostleship was void.  
Who would not be content to stand or fall  
With what, would so indifferent be to all?  
Or, not submit to him, who will become,  
Do what we can, the Giver of our Doom?  
Or, who will this oppose, but they who doubt  
GOD, will in his Elections, leave them out?   

More might be said: But, you know how to draw  
The Body of a Lion, by the Paw.  
If, these things, you consider; and shall do,  
Your best endeavour to conform thereto,  
This, I am sure of, (though I cannot tell  
What will be done) that, all they, shall do well  
Whose Consciences, unfeignedly attest  
That, they, to do all well, have done their best.   

How pleasing, this will prove, well know I not;  
But, how I might have pleased, well I wots.  
If, I, had flattered those men in their ways,  
Who, whatsoev'r they merit, look for praise.  
If, Pillows to their Elbows I had sowed,  
Soothed up the Covetous, fawned on the Proud,  
And been like many other, so ripe-witted,  
My Poems with their humours to have fitted:  
Had I, another been, not he I am,  
None knowing what I was, or, whence I came;  
Then, had (as I did) thirty years ago,  
Foretold what should be, and, what see they do  
Accordingly fufilled; and then, had got  
By that success, (which often faileth not)  
Amongst the People, such a reputation,  
As they, who seem to speak by Revelation;  
It may be I had been a Saint esteemed  
As Madmen are in Turkey; or, now seemed  
Less despicable; or, else, my predictions  
Had been as well regarded as those Fictions  
Or foolish lying Prophecies, by which  
Impostors, this deluded age bewitch.  
If, I, on that advantage, had made known  
Some Crotchets or Chimeras of mine own,  
For selfish ends; or, had I then pretended  
To some new-light; such Novelties commended  
To his age, as are pleasing, at this day.  
Or had I, (which, I could, as well as they  
Who practise it) put on the tempting Dress  
Of seeming zeal, and formal-holiness;  
Forborn to speak, what few men love to hear;  
Not bid them leave, what no man can forbear;  
And, in those things complide which most affect;  
I might have been the Father of some Sect:  
Yea, so, should have been favoured perchance,  
As to have got some temporal advance:  
For, few men, (could my heart therewith comply)  
Had better means, for such a cheat, than I.   

But, these were not my Aims, & I have gained  
As much, as I had hope to have attained.  
And, having fully proved what is in men,  
Will henceforth lay by, my displeasing Pen:  
Not doubting, but this Letter, will effect  
As much as whilst I live, I must expect.   

I, now have writ enough, to that intent  
Which first I had; yea, much more than I meant  
When I began, this; and thereby make known  
A Cause, more worthy heeding, than mine own;  
Wherein, if I prevail hereby, no more  
Then, by what I have written heretofore,  
I, shall believe th' effect would be much less  
Hereafter, should I, any more express.   

The Preface last year to my SALT on SALT,  
forewarned (and I think it not my fault  
If none regard it) that, to us, this year  
Effects of dreadful Thunders, would appear;  
And, so it comes to pass: yet, little heeded,  
Save as things, which have casually succeeded:  
I'll therefore, henceforth let them credit give  
To what they dream, and I do not believe.  
Enough is here writ, to make most of those  
That shall be Knaves, or Fools, to be my Foes.  
And, where can I live, (unless God shall please)  
Where, I can long be safe from some of these?  
But, in their presence, he my Table spreads;  
My Soul, nor their Power, nor their Malice dreads;  
He, heretofore, hath me defended from  
Their Purposes, and will, for, time to come,  
In that which most concerns me; though men may  
Take Life, Estate, and outward things, away.   

I have already said, and Writ enough,  
For men profane, and Hypocrites to scoff:  
Therefore, henceforth, let each man do the thing  
That likes him, as when Isr'el had no king.  
Let him, that will be wilful, have his will:  
Let him that's filthy, so continue still,  
Until another, to supply my room,  
Shall with a more prevailing Spirit come.   

Look to thyself, Oh BRITAIN! I will here  
No more be thy despised REMEMBRANCER:  
For, as those, who (when they neglects did meet,  
Were bid, to shake the dust from off their feet)  
I, am excused; and, 'tis not my belief,  
That, I am bound to preach unto the Deaf,  
And cast away my Pearls, as I have done,  
Where they and I, shall still be trampled on.  
My Soul, is clear from any blood of thine;  
GOD grant, thou mayst as guiltless be of mine,  
Thine own, and other men's; and at thy need,  
Speed better, in thy suits, than yet I speed.   

I will no more, affright thee with Alarms  
By my Predictions, of approaching harms,  
As in times past; nor add to thy offence,  
By minding thee, of thine impenitence;  
Nor seem to play the Fool, to make those wise  
Who, will not see, wherein their safety lies:  
But, cease to meddle in those Publick-matters,  
Which, thy False Prophets, and Prognosticaters,  
Have puzzled: But, to him, a suitor be,  
Who, from what's threatened, can deliver thee.   

To works of this kind, here, I fix a bound,  
This, is the last time, wherein I will sound  
My Trumpet to these Nations; or make known  
Ought which concerns thy matters, or mine own  
In public wise, or, in a private way,  
Save, as my Neighbours, either do, or may;  
Unless, I, from within, have such a Call  
As cannot safely be dispensed withal:  
Or, else, an outward Call from those who may  
Command me, if they think, that I can say  
What to the Public welfare will relate:  
But, there is little likelihood of that;  
And, therefore, I intent to spare my breath,  
To vent my Thoughts in private till my death.   

Oh! that I fail not, of my expectations,  
(In this dark Den, of cruel habitations,  
By outward or by inward perturbations)  
To take thy Kingdom, (Wherein, at this day,  
Thine enemies and mine, the Tyrant's play)  
COME, come, LORD JESUS, quickly come away.    

I begin this Wandring-Epistle, with respect to my present temporal condition only; without having the least thought of the preceding Catastrophe. But, as it heretofore befell Samson, (and hath oft befallen many of God's servants in their Frailties) with the Philistines, he must first have occasion given, by an outward injury, before he could be roused up to execute GOD's Vengeance upon the Enemies of his Country; so, before my Dull Flesh could be capable of admitting that publick-spirit to come upon me, which might sufficiently emholden me to declare what is at this time necessary to be offered to my countrymen's Consideration, she must be first reduced to a great strait, by the hazard of her too much beloved temporal Concernments: And, as Expositors upon the Psalms, affirm of the Prophet DAVID, it hath now happened unto me. Whilst he (as they conceive) was contemplating and complaining of those his personal Persecutions and Afflictions wherein he was a Type of the MESSIAH, he was suddenly transported above the sense of his own Sufferings, into Raptures prophetically expressing the persecutions and passions of his and our REDEEMER: In like manner, I, whose present outward Estate, much resembles this Commonwealths confused, needy, and hazardous Condition, (as I have heretofore particularly demonstrated) having a purpose, as aforesaid to express my personal Grievances only, in order to a timely Redress, was carried by a Poetical Rapture, into an unpremeditated Apprehension, of what may possibly come to pass, and nearly relates to this Republics well or ill being, as the pre-conditioned means of her welfare shall be neglected or performed; and to touch also upon some Particulars, of a higher concernment; even upon such as relate to the Kingdom of CHRIST and his Saints, with a Hint upon somewhat thereto pertinent; which being misapprehended by many who wait for that Kingdom, may occasion trouble to themselves and others, not without infringement of the Civil-peace, and dishonour to that spiritual Kingdom which we pray for, if they be not wary of those carnal delusions which the Enemy thereof seeks to mingle with their dim Notions of that mysterious Monarchy, to make them thereby somewhat instrumental to prolong his Empire in the mystical Babylon.  
The latter part of this Discourse, was on a sudden dictated to me in the Language of the Muses: therefore, though Verse be so much grown out of esteem and fashion, more than it was when I first began to versify, that amongst most men it is in as little esteem as I myself am; and so untuneably accented by most Readers, that in reading them, they mar the sense, and make worse Music than a Smith's File, or scraping of Trenchers: Nevertheless, I have inserted them as they were received from my Inspirer, as pertinent both to my Cause, and to them who should assume it into Consideration. Farewell: who thou art, into whose hands this will come, I know not: But, if thou shalt accept it, and make use thereof according to my reasonable Requests, thou art one of those, to whom it was originally intended, by thy Servant in all reasonable services,   
Geo. Wither. August 10. 1659.   

EPIPHONEMA.  
THe more, I muse, the more I may,  
Till night, ends in eternal day:  
For, every hour, brings forth new things,  
From whence, new matter daily springs,  
Whereof, I shall but speak in vain,  
Whilst my Corruptions do remain:  
But, when I must departed to Him,  
Who nor begun, nor ends in Time,  
And, hence, quite out of sight, am gone,  
My words will more be thought upon.  
Or they (when reckon are set right)  
Will help make measure and full weight.  
Ensuing times, will useful make them,  
Tho I, (in scoff, called Prophet) spoke them:  
And, when of nothing, I have need,  
They, paradventure, or their seed,  
Who in my life-time, have undone me,  
Will (dead) bestow a Grave upon me;  
As they that (issuing from their wombs  
Who slew them) built the Prophet's tombs.   

A POSTSCRIPT.  
DUring the Interval betwixt the last Assembly called a Parliament, and the restoring of this, I became so sensible of that sad condition, whereinto we were generally brought, that, I was stupefied as to all endeavourings concerning my own Estate; and thought they would be as little effectual, as to go about to repair a Lodging in a House every part whereof was in a flame; the foundations ruined, and the Superstructures ready to fall. Therefore, knowing it to be every man's duty to do what he could to preserve the Common-interest, I expelled selfness, as much as possibly out of my thought, for a few days; and examining mine own heart, what expedients it could offer thereunto; I apprehended, that the first step toward preventing what I feared, would be a right understanding, of that much mistaken Cause, which hath been lately carried on through many Labyrinths, Turn and Returning, until most men had quite lost the true Notion, of that, for which, they first contended; insomuch, that some Obliquely, and some other Diametrically opposed it, to the engaging of many thousands into Factions destructive both to the Public, and to their own private safety and welfare. I perceived likewise, that some had honestly, but imperfectly; and some so maliciously stated our Good old Cause, (as they termed it in scoff) that it made men abhor it, who had formerly, thereto adhered; and to occasion those mutinous and seditious Conspiracies, which are newly broken forth into Rebellion, likely to join a Foreign Invasion to Domestic Insurrections; which in hope to prevent, I stated the said Cause according to my understanding, before the Restauration of this Parliament, with an addition of some Preparatory conceptions, which I thought useful toward such a settlement, as that, whereof our late Innovations and Changes, had for the present, made us most capable: And, I so fitted (as I conceived) my illustration of our just Cause, with simple expressions, suitable to their capacities, whose right understanding thereof, is most needful, that, I thought it might have much conduced to the quieting their spirits, whose misapprehensions only (and not a malevolent wilfulness) had made them to be verbally, or actively, opposers of their own Interest: For, without imposing upon them, any Magisterial Authorities, of whose validity they can have no certain knowledge (as they usually do, who seek to enslave men's Consciences, no less than their Bodies, and Estates, by frighting them, with Laws made either without their assent, or with a constrained assent, by those Tyrants who had usurped upon their just Rights) I deduced their claim, from the Original thereof; evidencing it, by such Principles, and Reasons only, as the Common people, may be Judges of; and by bringing to their remembrance, such Truths and transactions, to evince the justness of their Cause, as are for the most part known unto themselves; especially as they have relation to the late King, and those, who succeeded him, in his Tyranny.  
This, I resolved to publish, till the Resurrection of this Parliament; at which time I thought it would neither be so needfully nor so warrantably done, in regard there then appeared a lawful visible power, able enough to prosecute that work, without my Notions, though perhaps, their humility would, and their Prudence might have made some of them serviceable: and upon that supposition, I was once again, minded to communicate my Conceptions aforementioned in public, since their Restauration, together with my PROTECTORIA, (which is a Collection of such Addresses and other Writings, as I had composed in relation to the Protectors, whilst they were in being,) as not impertinent to the facilitating of their work without the doors of their House: But, I have already, contributed so much of my Estate, toward public services, and, so much is detained from me, that I was not able to print it, at my own cost; and (I, not then purposing, to be known Author thereof, lest it might have the less esteem) no other man, to my knowledge, would put himself to that charge: Moreover, here hath been ever since, such a multitude of single sheets and Pamphlets, daily fluttering about every man's ears, busying their eyes, and filling their Pockets, that my Papers would probably have been obscured among them; And, I have also, in this Epistle bound myself from publishing any more hereafter of this nature, except, upon a Conscientious account, or by the command of my Superiors. Therefore if any of my Writings last mentioned, or any other, but such as have been formerly printed, (or by command, and as aforesaid) do come forth by their procurement who have, or shall have Copies of them; Let not the Trouble, or discontent, which thereby may be occasioned, be imputed unto me. I will add but this Corollary. My sins have justly deserved that God should permit me to be oppressed; Therefore, though with penitence, I have made use of this Epistle, among other means for deliverance; I trust not thereupon; nor upon any thing which I can say or do, or which any other man can say or do for me; but in God's free mercies only; and if he will not deliver me, I will not be delivered.  
Geo. Whither.  
FINIS.   

Faults Escaped.  
In the last line of the Title-page, for turn, read cure: page 14. line 28. for the same, read some.