The Protector. A POEM Briefly illustrating the Supereminency of that Dignity; AND, Rationally demonstrating, that the Title of PROTECTOR, providentially conferred upon the Supreme Governor of the British Republic, is the most Honourable of all Titles, and, that, which, probably, promiseth most Propitiousness to these Nations; if our Sins and Divisions prevent it not.  
Composed by George Whither, Esq;  
Take these Hints at the Threshold.  

The use of most things, which GOD frames,  
He stamps upon them, by their Names.  
The truest Honour, always, lies  
In that, which Worldlings, most despise.  
The greatest Power, not kept upright,  
Soon swerves, and falls, by its own Weight.  
The best Effects, Mankind enjoys,  
By that, which their own work, destroys.  
The gladdest Tidings, have been brought,  
By means, and persons, set at Nought.  
And saddest Danger, those attends,  
Who court their Foes, and slight their Friends.   
LONDON, Printed by J.C. and are to be sold at the Angel in Paul's Churchyard. 1655.   

To the High and Mighty, OLIVER, By the grace of God, of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, with the Isles and Dominions thereof, Imperial PROTECTOR; as also, Catholic Defender of the oppressed Saints, throughout the World: GEO. WHITHER humbly offers, this Illustration of that supereminent TITLE.  


I Know, that Malice will impute to me  
The guilt of Flattery in a high degree:  
Yet, with a conscience blameless of that sin,  
Thus, in despite of Envy, I begin:   

LORD, of the noblest of all Sovereign Styles,  
Of BRITAN 's Empire, Provinces, and Isles:  
Bright Load-star of the North; who (for Director  
As well, through future times, as for PROTECTOR  
Of us who now survive) hast raised been  
By Providence, that Great Work to begin,  
Which hath been long in hope; and which, hence forth  
Shall spread such Influences from the North  
Throughout the earth, as will their souls amaze,  
Who, on thy late Ascension, stand at gaze:  
Descend a little, and cast down thine eyes  
On this, which at thy feet displayed lies;  
And, let thy great Humility, dispense  
With what, may seem in me a Confidence  
Above my Sphere: for, to the highest things,  
The lowest, otherwhiles, additions brings,  
If not obstructed by those dire Aspects,  
Which menace, now, malevolent Effects.   

Some days, before that PARLIAMENT was past,  
Which, may, yet, called be, your first, and last;  
This Poem, (and the Lines which next ensue,  
To usher it) was fitted for your view,  
And, their perusal; who, might then have been  
(As I supposed) much concerned therein.  
But, somewhat intervening, which did seem  
To make it out of season, at that time,  
It was six months delayed, to wait upon  
That subsequence which would ensue thereon;  
And, now, a better Opportunity  
Appearing, This, in all humility,  
Moves toward you again, in every thing  
The same it was, except this prefacing,  
Which here concludes. Let the Contents be weighed,  
As they deserve: for, this, was that I said.    


I Find among the best Antiquities,  
That, they who ruled the world's chief Monarchies  
Gave those, whom they most favoured, some New name:  
And, GOD himself, hath sometime done the same  
To his choice Favourites, when he begun  
Great Changes, and when signal acts were done,  
In order to a seas'nable proceed,  
With what, had been eternally decreed.  
Now, in like manner, for the same intent,  
He, by a New name, makes thee eminent,  
Above all other Princes, to bring on  
That Kingdom, which he promised long agone.  
And, to that end, YOU, (of whom no man thought  
In that way) from Obscurity are brought,  
To show the world, That, he, even to this day,  
Proceeds, with his own works, in his own way;  
Neither, her Powers, in his Designments needing,  
Nor those great Persons, or that means, much heeding  
Which humane prudence, thinks, conducing to  
That, which eternal Wisdom means to do.   

And, he, perhaps, hath called me, from among  
The Vulgar, and most despicable Throng,  
To help rough-hew their hearts, who by dissensions,  
Are Foes to their own Peace, and his intentions:  
As also, to illustrate so to you,  
And, unto them, the Name conferred now;  
That, by observing it, both You, and They  
(Before it be too late) consider may  
How You, and They, are thereby privileged;  
Whereto, you, jointly, seem to be obliged;  
Whereto, apart; what, will succeed upon  
That, which shall well, or wickedly be done:  
And, that the time is come, or near at hand,  
Which offers us, the means, to fall or stand.   

At least, I do believe, that I was born  
To act this Part; and will, till I return  
To him that sent me; leaving the success  
To Providence, which gets advantages  
By disadvantage; and, oft, makes our gains  
Then greatest, when most think, we lose our pains.   

I was about to tell you, what I hear;  
What, some suspect; what, many seem to fear;  
And, what most men repine at: But, your Sun  
Wants not my Candle, nor needs this be done:  
For, you have ev'rywhere, both Ears, and Eyes,  
To find where Danger, or Advantage lies;  
And, I can bring you, but a Glowworms light,  
Which rarely shines, except to them, whose Night  
Affliction darkens: And, it seems, even then,  
a Ignis Fatuus, to some Prudent men.   

Till therefore, I shall find myself more able,  
In your Concernments to be serviceable,  
I will in humble silence, wait upon  
What shall, by GOD, by You, and Those, be done  
Who represent these Nations; and, who be  
Objects of Contemplation now, to me,  
Whereby, I Calculate what may succeed,  
When, joined together, I your Actings read:  
For, Truths, to me, your Trine-aspect more clears,  
Then all the Constellations of the Spheres:  
Yea, those Three show me, what things will be done,  
Better, than all the Stars, the Moon, and Sun.   

There are some Clouds which trouble so my sight,  
That I discern not things, which else I might:  
But this I plainly view, that, much is left  
Unto Contingencis, to be bereavest,  
Or else enjoyed, according as you prove  
Who, in the two Inferior Orbs, do move:  
And, if I know you, or, by what proceeds  
Either from Circumstances, Words, or Deeds,  
May know, what you unfeignedly desire,  
(And whereunto you chief do aspire)  
You aim at nothing more, then, to possess  
A Throne established by Righteousness:  
And that those Hesitations, and that Doubt,  
In which you let these Nations ravel out  
So many Months, is, neither ill Design,  
Nor Evidence, that you from them decline:  
But, an Expedient, which, your wisdom tries  
To work by, in your late Emergencies.   

Unless, I be deceived (which, God forbidden)  
In what you do, and what you lately did,  
You, take no pleasure in delays, or troubles,  
Which needlessly, their cost or labour doubles;  
But, only, leave it to themselves, to state  
Their Questions, and, their heats to moderate,  
By their own Prudence, (without interposing  
Your judgement, or their purposes opposing)  
That, by a free debate, they fully may  
Know their own temper; and, you find the way  
To such Resolving, as may best assure  
A settlement of Peace, which will endure;  
And, that, when you, by their Contests have found  
Which Members rotten be, and which are sound;  
Who gives good counsel, who bad things infuses;  
Who speaks his Conscience, who his Trust abuses;  
Who strives to build up Truth, who pulls it down;  
Who neither stoops to smiles, nor fears a frown:  
Who merits to be stripped of his power,  
Who seeks his own ends, by pretending your;  
Who flatters, who is fickle, who is stout;  
Who fittest for the Work you are about;  
With other such discoveries, that, from thence  
You may extract Results of Consequence  
For Common benefit: I do presume  
You will, at last, to that Conclusion come,  
Which all Goodmen expect: and, act, what best  
Conduceth to the Public Interest,  
Much better, than you either could have done,  
By interrupting, what seemed carried on;  
Or, by possessing them with hopes, to have  
Whatever, they should pleased be, to crave:  
For, Full-fed Steeds grow wanton, if their Guiders  
Neglect the Rein; and, spoil themselves, and Riders.   

These are the thoughts, to which my heart inclines,  
Without a dictate of your own Designs  
From any hand: which thoughts, if you approve,  
I have, at this time, nothing more to move,  
But, that you will be pleased to peruse  
What of your sovereign Title now ensues;  
That, it may mind you of his love who gave it;  
Show, on what terms, to what intent you have it;  
And keep you careful, that it be not changed;  
Lest, somewhat, from you, therewith be estranged,  
Which you are loath to lose, and, must forgo,  
When you grow disaffected thereunto:  
For, you will find it so, when it is too late  
To seek th' effects, which may be aimed at,  
By such an Innovation; and, will see  
Ill Consequences, which, yet hidden be,  
If (as I think you are not) I should find  
Your Highness, to be mutably inclined.   

I aim at nothing, but to make you strong  
For that Work, whereto seemeth to belong  
This, your advancement; and shall not desist  
Therein, although my private Interest  
You should neglect; or, value me no more  
Than they, who have oppressed me heretofore.   

Believe this, SIR: for, from a heart it came,  
Which prompts no guile: and, be assured, I am  
(As unto him, who bears next under GOD  
Our Staff Protecting, or Correcting ROD)    
To your Highness, both faithfully, and conscientiously devoted, GEO. WHITHER,   

To the Readers.  

THe Subject of my Muse, is now a TITLE;  
Which, though yet known unto the World but little;  
May much concern it: but, abov the rest,  
(And in the first place) Britain's Interest;  
If we destroy not, by a wilful sinning,  
The glory of it, in the first beginning.   

IT is not my Principle, to take away,  
Or, to resist the Power I should obey,  
Or, question that, which Providence approves,  
Or sets up, when another it removes;  
Confirming visibly, what it advances,  
With all the Supplements and Circumstances  
Which make a Power: and therefore, when at first,  
Power was disjointed, and I seemed enforced  
To take one Part of what was then divided;  
I clavae to that, wherewith, I thought resided  
Most Equity, adhering to the same  
With Constancy; and, I think, without blame  
Justly imputed: for, with an intent  
To serve as well the King, as Parliament,  
I put on Arms; and, as sincerely sought  
His good, as theirs, beneath whose Flag I fought,  
Till, I, betwixt them nigh destroyed became;  
And, then, perceiving they were both to blame,  
Left off the Quarrel, unto Him, that knew  
Which best deserved, and, what to both was due.  
Yet, firm continued, to this Commonweal,  
When, by the Sword, GOD, answered her Appeal,  
According to our Laws, (which, in such case,  
Combat allows, when no proof else, takes place.)  
Yea, to the People's Representative,  
I, did (though thereby wronged) obedience give;  
Contributing, what I was able, then,  
With my Estate, and also by my Pen:  
Which, (though despised) somewhat did effect  
Producing more Advantage, than respect:  
For, they, who were not pleased it should be known  
To come from me, made my Designs their own;  
And left me to the mischief of their hate,  
Who, maliced my Affection, to the State.   

When their Power subdivided, I adhered  
To that, in which most Righteousness appeared:  
And, though I suffered still, without regard,  
(Aiming at nobler Guerdon, and reward,  
Then they could give me) did the best I could,  
Their Peace, and crazy Honour, to uphold  
By secret Cautions, and, by publishing  
What I much feared their course would on them bring:  
But, Selfness, Pride, and Avarice, made void  
All good endeavours, till they were destroyed;  
And, some among them, who deserved well,  
Were wrapped up, in the Mischiefs which befell,  
Blamed, and unpitied; yea, and most of all  
By them, whose wickedness, drew on their fall.   

How, it so came to pass, I, could not mark;  
For, in a Cloud it was done, and in the dark,  
(As in respect of me) till, GOD revealed  
That Mystery, which was at first concealed:  
And then, from late Corruptions, forth did peep  
(As Eve from Adam, whilst he was asleep)  
Appearances; which, when they were reduced  
To their perfection, visibly produced  
The present GOVERNMENT, ere well I knew  
What men were doing, or, what would ensue.  
But, when it showed itself, I, plainly saw  
A Creature formed, clothed with such Power, and awe,  
That, none but GOD himself, could Author be  
Of that, which I did then produced see:  
Considering, what Confusions we were in;  
What, might, much rather, have expected been;  
And, how, to wonderment, he had assuaged  
Their Fury, who, were Envious, and enraged.   

Therefore, although, before that time, I had  
Some Overtures, within my own heart made;  
And, some Expedients fancied, how to lay  
Foundations of our Peace, another way;  
And, to rebuild the Structure late o'erthrown,  
By gathering out, from what was pulled down,  
The Good, from Bad, (and that, which proved sound,  
From Rubbish, which therewith, was mixed found.)  
I threw by my own thoughts; and, thenceforth, sought  
To work on, in that Work, which GOD had wrought;  
And am resolved, with all the strength I have,  
(And, every Faculty which I receive)  
To fortify that Power, which raised I see,  
Till God himself removes it; though to me  
It proved less favourable, yea, and more  
Destructive, than the Power, which reigned before:  
And (without other purpose) to that end,  
These Muse, on this Title did intent,  
Which here ensues; that, you away may cast  
Your own Designs, as I did mine, at last,  
And join together, in advancing that  
New Power, and Title, which, GOD, did create;  
Rather, then by a foolish wilfulness,  
Oppose his will, and ruin your own Peace.  
Which Mischief, that you timely may prevent,  
(And, not destructive Discord still foment)  
I have contrived this Engine, to prepare  
Their hearts for Concord, who divided are;  
And show them, what Advantages may rise  
By that, which they through Ignorance despise.   

Consider therefore, duly, what it may  
Concern you, to take heed, of what I say;  
And, that sometime a Title, or a Word,  
(Scarce thought worth heed) occasion may afford  
Of furth'ring matters of great Consequence,  
And of removing things which gave offence.  
Consider what is offered to your view:  
Remember, that some things, and not a few,  
Which were foretold (even many years before  
They came to pass) were carelessly passed over,  
And what befell. Remember, that, to you  
I have nought tendered, yet, which proved untrue,  
(If rightly understood) when it was professed  
Delib'rately, and, seriously expressed:  
And, let me find respect, as I intent  
Your weal, by that, which new I recommend.   
Your ancient Remembrancer, Geo. Wither.   

The Protector.  
A POEM Briefly illustrating the Supereminency of that Dignity.  

WIse Providence, which, leaves unheeded, neither  
she falling hair, or wagging of a feather,  
Induceth me, sometimes, with serious eyes,  
To view, & Muse on that, which most despise:  
And, now, amidst a world of Things, I am  
Thereby inclined, to Contemplate a Name;  
For which, perhaps, I shall be thought as wise,  
As he, who telleth Straws, or hunteth Flies:  
But, think men as they list, my Think, too,  
Shall be as free; and, what I please I'll do:  
For, now, of boundless Freedoms many dream;  
And, I may prove as wise, as one of them.   

A Factious Rout, because I much decline  
Their Principles, pretend, I fall from mine;  
And, falsely, say, that, I have taught my Rhymes  
To sooth the Innovations of these Times:  
As if, a zeal to Public good, none had,  
Until it made him, in some measure, mad,  
And partner in seditious ways, with those,  
Who, to the Present Power, are always Foes.   

A Fawning Crew, because I bars provide  
Against their growing Vanities, and Pride,  
Have published, by Fame, (which is the Liar)  
That, my last Lines, were voted to the fire:  
As if, Wise men, a blameful act would do,  
Because, mis-jugding Fools, would have it so:  
But, I much value not, how I displease  
Such vain, and partial Censurers as these:  
For, having learned, that Knaves and Fools, are those  
Who, to my Muse, are still greatest Foes,  
I, now again adventure, maugre them,  
To descant on another Casual-Theame  
That's offered by the New Sprung Sovereign Style,  
Which lately was indenized in this Isle:  
And, having sound what Providence will do,  
There, where that Honour 's, I will honour too;  
Not heeding, neither greatly taking care,  
Who thinks I temp'rize, or who angry are:  
This, was my temper known, when I was younger;  
And, (as I older grow) it groweth stronger.   

Our needless Novelties, approve I not;  
Nor on Antiquities, did ever dote,  
Which are not useful; nor, is it my intent  
To cavil, about things indifferent;  
But would have every Soul, preserved as free,  
As I myself, desirous am to be:  
And, therefore, when I have declared my mind,  
Let all men Censure, as they stand inclined.   

Some, misadvised, or, some deluded friends,  
(And, some, concealing mis-directed ends  
With fair Pretending) would have laid aside  
This Title; and, his Highness' digniside,  
With what the Jews, imprudently, once, chose;  
Or, what the Germans, on their CHIEF impose:  
Not heeding, peadventure, what Offence  
It had occasioned, against Providence;  
Nor, of what Benefits, it may deprive  
Both Him, and Us, if their Design should thrive.  
Therefore, I offer up this Vindication,  
Of what seems yet approved of by this Nation:  
Which, (though it may a Vanity appear,  
To those, who know not, what things proper are,  
Nor what is useful) shall, by what succeeds,  
Show, how much, this Age these Expressions needs;  
And, have effects, which may to others be  
Of much advantage; though, of none to me.   

Did I not guess at what our Eagle flies,  
And to what Heights, I must advance mine eyes,  
To heed in what transcendent Sphere he goes;  
I might have sought him among Kites and Crows;  
And called them by his Name; or, else, to Him,  
Communicated, what belongs to them,  
As others would have done; and, lost the view  
Of things that are, and, things that will ensue.   

Knew I not, also, that, to new Creations,  
There do belong peculiar Appellations,  
To keep things from Confusion; I, perchance,  
(Deluded by Self-love, or Ignorance,  
Yet blinding others) might have prized more  
Those Attributes, thought glorious heretofore;  
And been as violent, to have restored  
Those Titles, which the Vulgar have adored:  
For, I envy not, that men should bestow  
The highest Titles, where most Worth, they know.   

But, I heed, that, when Things and Names agree,  
And, that, when joined by Providence they be,  
There 's somewhat in it, of more Consequence  
Than all men, at first sight, collect from thence:  
Especially, when old Names, may obstruct  
Th' effects, which changing of a Name product,  
As in this present case; which, some, that have  
More Wit than Grace, do well enough perceive.   

Why, then, should we desire again that Thing,  
Which, formerly, these Nations called a King?  
Or, so much as the Name of that retain,  
To which, we long in bondage did remain?  
As if it had bewitched us, still, to bear  
Some mark of that, whereby enthralled we were?  
And, which did by relapse (do what we could)  
Corrupt, still, into what it was of Old?  
Why should we court it now? whilst on us lies  
The heavy burdens, which their Tyrannies  
Occasioned? and, before the wounds are cured,  
Which, we, in casting off those Chains, endured?  
Or, why on him who hath our sovereign Power,  
Should we bestow the Style of Emperor?  
A drooping Title, shuffled off and on,  
Till it hath scarcely Place to rest upon,  
Or Person, which at this day owns the same,  
According to the Grandeur of that Name?   

If, they, who gave him first his Style and Power,  
That now protecteth, were his friends, and our,  
And, meant thereby to honour Us, and Him;  
Why, now should we their Noble Gift contemn?  
Why by the name of King, should we now call him,  
Which is below the Honours, that befall him;  
And makes him to be rather less than greater,  
(As in himself) and rather worse than better  
As to his People? For, it renders void  
The Dignity conferred; and, now enjoed.  
At best, it mixeth with it, but as Clay  
With Iron, which, both takes the strength away,  
And value of it: adding thereunto,  
Nothing, but what that structure may undo.  
It cracks the Instrument, which doth invest  
Him in his Power; and Iames his Interest:  
Yea, and disables him, to prosecute  
That Duty, whereto, it did him depute.  
It crosseth the designs of Providence.  
It will deprive him even of that Defence  
Which seems intended; and, will him expose  
To all the purposed Cavils of his Foes.  
It woos him from that Principle, whereon  
His Safety stands, to lean and rest upon  
A Pinaclc, which totters under all,  
Who do ascend it; and, portends a Fall.  
In brief, it many ways, exposeth him  
To Dangers, which my sight (though somewhat dim)  
Better, it may be, can foresee, than some  
Who do supply a more perspicuous Room.  
It giveth shells for kernels; and, the shade  
Of that which he, before, in essence had.  
And, if by others flatteries, or, by aught,  
Which may to that end rise from his own thought,  
He waves this Title, for the best of those  
The World admires; he, therewithal hath chose  
His Portion in the world; and will, at last,  
Prove like to them, with whom his lot is cast.   

Some of the Long-robe, to advance their Trade,  
And others, that, an Inlet might be made  
To what they hope for (and, perhaps contrive  
In secret) our Old Title would revive;  
Because, from Kingship they have hope to draw  
Advantage by the letter of our Law,  
To all his Substitutes, who govern by  
That Name, sufficient to indempnify  
Them, both in their Estates, and Persons, from  
Those hazards, which might else upon them come;  
If, He, the Supreme Power should repossess  
Whom GOD removed. But, neither more, nor less,  
Will they be privileged, whether he  
King, or Protector, shall instiled be.  
Nor can a Name of novel Institution,  
Which in itself implies no diminution  
Of real Power (but rather a supply)  
Diminish aught of his Authority  
That Rules in Chief; since, to him pertinent  
(Even of due right) is all enablement  
That 's necessary to effect those ends,  
Which Government, essentially intends.   

For, our PROTECTOR is not such a one,  
As that, whereby we did support the Throne,  
In Nonage of a King, (as some conceive)  
But, that, which to his Highness doth derive,  
As absolute, and as Supreme a Power  
As that of Kingship, or of Emperor,  
Which arrogates no more, then may subsist,  
With GOD's, and with his People's Interest.  
And, be it known, (though some think otherwise)  
(Whose Judgement, we in many matters prise)  
That by a King, our Laws mean not alone,  
That Name, but, also that, which fills the Throne,  
Be it a King, a Queen, or Parliament,  
Or, whatsoever else, doth represent  
The Supreme Power: And, that, each Attribute  
Or Privilege, which Statute-laws impute  
To Powers in being, when they first were made,  
Is (in each Change) with every force it had,  
Transferred thither, and, to that, wherein  
The Supreme Power essentially is seen  
To act and to reside: (though in the Name,  
Or other Accidents, we change the same.)  
For, to those Laws, although some violence  
Seemed to be offered, in the lit'ral sense,  
When here a Woman reigned; no wiseman thought  
The essence of the Laws transgressed in aught,  
Because she was no King: nor will, of that,  
The Title of Protector ought abate.  
And, they, who may by nice distinguish,  
Or Terms, imposed indiff'rently on Things,  
Or Persons, be unwisely tempted from  
Realities; will much deceived become  
In what they hope for: and, when thought they are  
Most safe, be taken in an unseen snare.   

When once a Supreme Power is constituted,  
Submitted to, and shall be such reputed,  
Without resistance, or a Protestation  
Against it made in Public, by that Nation  
Whom it concerns, (or by some part at least,  
Considerable, claiming Interest,  
Or share therein, having enablement  
Likewise to guard those, who thereto assent)  
Such Constitution, (and the Being, what  
It seems to be) gives it not only that,  
But every other Right, which doth invest  
With real Power; whether, it be expressed  
By Law, or not; and virtually makes void  
All Laws, whereby such Power may be destroyed;  
Until another Power, that is more able,  
Removeth it: And, then, as warrantable  
That, thenceforth grows, as long, as it doth reign,  
And, actually, a Being doth retain.  
Provided, that such Powers do neither swerve  
From Justice, nor destroy, what to preserve  
They were ordained; nor leave a private wrong  
Unrecompensed quite (or overlong)  
When they are forced to endamage some,  
That, many, may not to destruction come.   

And, all they, who to such a Power submit,  
(Or, for the Common Peace, act under it)  
Whilst it continues, merit no just blame,  
However, that Power, to be a Power became;  
So they, at first, conspired not with those  
By whose unrighteous actings, it arose:  
For, GOD himself, commands us to obey  
The Powers that are; not questioning what way  
They were acquired. His Son, whilst here on earth,  
He did reside, (although true King by birth)  
Paid Tribute to th' Usurper, that, he might  
Advance GOD'S work, by waving his own right.  
His Followers, taught this doctrine; yea, did teach  
By Practice, that which they by word did preach.  
And did submit for Conscience sake, even when  
The sovereign Power was grasped by worst of men,  
And got by basest means; which, to this day,  
Became a Guide, to many in that way,  
Which, else, had doubtful been: And, had we not  
This Rule to walk by, through GOD'S mercy got,  
Mankind would be destroyed: for, by our siding,  
With this, or with that Faction; by dividing,  
And subdividing Powers, as Malice, Love.  
Pride, Envy, or Self-interest may move,  
All would be torn in pieces; and no Peace,  
Be settled, till Mankind, to be, should cease.   

Why then should any so imprudent grow?  
Or rather, why so mad? (for they are so)  
Who, when they might unblamefully possess  
Their lives and portions, in safe Quietness,  
Will, unconstrained, lose their sweet enjoying  
Of what they have, and venture the destroying  
Of all that 's dear unto them, to pull down  
A fixed Power? and, set up one unknown?  
That will be, or that may (at least) be worse?  
And, both on them, and others, bring the Curse  
Of Alldevouring War? yea, and perchance,  
A Family, or Person, here advance,  
Who, either will not heed their services,  
Or else forget them, when they get their Prize?  
Or (which is worse) requite at last, with ill  
Their cost, their pains, their hazards, & ?  
And leave them to the spites and scorns of those  
Whom they, for their sakes, did at first oppose?  
For such things I have seen; even Traitors made  
Their Favourites, whom they would have betrayed;  
And, those cast out of Favour, without Reason,  
Whose faithfulness, preserved them from their treason.   

Why then should we permit Discretions eyes  
To be deceived with Cheating Fallacies?  
Why then should we of Scarcrows be afraid?  
Or on Foundations, by GOD'S own hand laid,  
Rebuild again old Babylon? or fix  
To Sion's firm stones, her untempered bricks?  
Why, when the work of God is both in Name,  
And in the Thing, of one Piece, and the same,  
Should Humane Policy presume to add  
Her Trim? as if he mistaken had  
His purpose? Or, as if he had forgot  
What Title, best became the Power and lot  
Which was conferred on him, to whom, of late,  
The Supreme Seat, it pleased him to translate,  
From those who had abused it? For, that Change  
(Although irregular it seemed, and strange)  
Is not of Man, but GOD; though men have been  
Dull, and imperfect Instruments therein:  
And, it will established be; if he that bears  
The Sceptre shuns ungodly Counsellors;  
Makes not a wilful stand in sinners ways,  
Nor to the Scorners Throne, himself shall raise.  
But if this Title merely did depend  
On humane prudence, we should much offend  
Against her Principles, by vary'ng from  
That Resolution whereto we are come.   

Why then should we, if now we Freemen are,  
(And by the world without, reputed were  
A world within ourselves) be bound up to  
Their Customs, who have nought with us to do?  
Since, it will be thereby tacitly confessed,  
We are not Masters of that Interest  
Which we do claim; nor can of right create  
(As well as any other Supreme State)  
New Dignities; or make new Precedents,  
When Time brings forth occasioned Events.  
For, this inferred, we granted, or believed,  
That, we our chief Ennoblements received  
From other States; and, are obliged become  
Those Rags of Honour, only, to assume,  
Which they have worn, though soiled and disgraced  
By those, on whom they were unjustly placed.   

A Title giveth no essential Fame;  
It is the Man, that dignifies the Name.  
Tyrant, was thought an honourable Style,  
Until, Oppressors did the same defile.  
By lustful Insolence, in Tarquin's race,  
Kingship, at Rome, first fell into disgrace,  
And, it was from thence exploded with such hate,  
That, though the King of Romans, is of late,  
Made Titular; no Roman, to this day,  
Submits thereto, nor in Rome bears it sway.   

The Basis, of true Supreme honour stands  
Not upon absolute, but, Just Commands.  
A Prince, doth his Pre-eminence receive,  
From Virtue, not from his Appellative;  
And Righteousness, adds more to his renown,  
Then Conquest, Title, Sceptre, and a Crown.  
As quickly will appear, when he shall want  
That Dignity, and grows exorbitant.   

An honourable Title is confessed  
To be a fair Engagement, or at best,  
An useful Pledge, and some Memento too,  
Of what the Owner is obliged to do:  
But, of itself, on him that fills the place  
Of Power, it doth confer, nor Worth, nor Grace.  
It is an Ornament, that prized should be,  
And, also, that which may, in some degree  
Illustrate him that wears it; if he frame  
His Actions answerable to the same,  
According to the purposes of those,  
Who did on him, the Sovereignty impose.  
And, that, which on our Chief hath been of late  
Conferred, (and is confirmed now by our State)  
Is more significant, to that intent,  
Then All, whereof there's any Precedent,  
Throughout the Universe; unless it be  
In some far Climate, yet unknown to me.   

To him, who hath obtained a Supreme Power,  
Whether Duke, Prince, a King, or Emperor,  
Sophy, Grand Signior, Pope, (or what Style else  
We place on him, who, other men excels)  
He by the greatest of them, is possessed  
Of no more Sovereignty, then by the least.  
For, all their Titles are equivalent  
According to their Signories extent;  
Because, he that dependeth upon none,  
Is made as absolute, by any One  
Of those, or other Titles, as by all;  
Which will appear, when I discover shall  
How much, or little, each of them contains,  
Of that, which to Supremacy pertains;  
And, when it is considered what they are  
Who, as chief Sovereigns, these Titles, wear.   

A Duke, is but a Leader; supreme Prince,  
Is one who claims the chief Pre-eminence;  
A King, is he, who hath a Ruling Power;  
Command, denominates an Emperor;  
Sophy (the Persian Title) signifies  
A Person, who, in governing is wise;  
Grand Signior (which the Turks ambitiousness  
Now arrogates) doth Power in Chief express;  
The stile of Pope, implies a Fatherhood,  
And more relateth to a People's good,  
Then any of the former, though as little  
He doth conform his Actings to his Title:  
But, all those Titles want that which completes  
A person meriting, the Supreme Seats,  
Except this last, whose Claimers (swerving from  
What their high Style implieth) are become  
Stepfathers unto those, whom they pretend  
To father, foster, cherish, and defend;  
And, GOD as well for their Deliverance,  
As our, shall this Protectors power advance,  
(Or his Successors) till it quite sets free  
All Nations, who, to them enslaved be;  
Avenging all the blood which they have shed;  
(The blood of Saints whom they have massacred  
Of late, or heretofore:) yea, look how far  
The Powers of GOG, and MAGOG, stretched are;  
And wheresoever those Catholic pretenders  
Oppress; these shall be Catholic Defenders  
Of men oppressed; and, GOD, to that end,  
Shall universally this Power extend.  
It hath already (as that Angel did,  
Of whom John wrote) to that intent, bestrid  
A great part of the world; and one foot stands  
upon the Seas, the other on the Lands.   

But, whither, do my Contemplations fly?  
I may, perchance, unseal a Mystery  
Before the time; my Muse, therefore, descend,  
And, prosecute the Subject I intent;  
Thereby, to further that, which I conceive  
Is drawing near, and few will yet believe.   

None, of the other Titles, bring to mind  
All Duties, whereto Princes, are enjoined;  
And, such as owe them, frequently are cast,  
Among the vile, and infamous, at last;  
Because, they nor essential retain  
Within themselves, the Power, those Titles fain,  
Nor any of those Virtues, which assure  
The Dignity, they formally procure.  
But, if, that any Title under heaven,  
Hath in times past, or, in this age been given,  
That, truly magnifies; and, may conduce  
To bring those Virtues, unto mind and use,  
Which dignify the Persons; it is that  
Which Providence conferred hath of late,  
Upon our Governor. For, though it seem  
Through Novelty, not grown up to esteem,  
Yet, (if, unhappily, there be not wanting,  
Concomitances, useful to its planting)  
It will be reverenced, in farthest Climes,  
And, honourable through all future times,  
(Beyond compare;) when, Kings and Emperors  
Have lost their Names, their Kingdoms, & their Powers:  
And, until here, that King of kings doth reign,  
Whose Glory, heaven and earth, cannot contain.   

This glorious Title, hath in it expressed,  
No stamp of Self-relation, like the rest;  
But, marks forth One, (as if from heaven sent down)  
Who seeks his People's weal, more than his own.  
It is the chiefest of GOD's Attributes  
Which he to those men, whom he here deputes  
Communicates; and aught, therefore, by none  
To be assumed, but Godlike men, alone,  
Who in their hearts, have purposed, to be  
(At least, by Imitation) such as He:  
And, ready, to contribute in his stead,  
Due succours to all Suppliants in their Need.   

It is a Name of mercy and affection,  
Which, not alone engageth to Protection,  
But, likewise to a strenuous Opposition  
Of Tyrants, Tyrannies, and all Oppression.  
For, to be called a Nation to protect,  
Implies (at least, in some degree) th' effect  
Of every Means, which may be helpful to  
Those Works which GOD provided Him to do;  
And nobler is, in that respect, than those  
Loud-sounding Titles, which our Fathers chose:  
Because, we therein comprehended find  
More Notions, then in all those Titles joined,  
Which are throughout the whole world, owned by them,  
Who do enjoy a sovereign Diadem.   

Conduct, Pre-eminence, Rule, and Command,  
Policy, Grandeur, (both by Sea and Land)  
And, that Paternity, which they possess  
To whom is misimputed Holiness,  
Are but a Part, and that part very little  
Of what is intimated by this Title.   

For (being well considered) it implies  
That he, who owns it, should be truly wise,  
As well as politic; a foe to Vice;  
A friend to Virtue; free from Avarice.  
Awful of GOD; affectionate to Man,  
His Welfare seeking, by all means he can;  
Stout, and yet humble, in his Exaltation;  
Just, and his Justice, sweetening by Compassion;  
Due recompense to well- deservers giving;  
pardoning the Penitent, th' Oppressed relieving;  
Watchful for all Occasions how he may  
Advance his People's welfare, every way:  
As also, by what means he may prevent  
The Common, and each private Detriment;  
A hearty Zealot of the Public Faith;  
By Deeds confirming, what in Words he saith;  
And, readier for his Flocks, his life to stake,  
Then, of their Flesh, or Fleece, a prey to make:  
Nor to his own alone, doth he extend  
His Goodness; but even to the world's far end,  
Will stretch it also; as acknowledging  
All men for Subjects of that Heavenly King,  
Whom, he but represents; and, unto whom  
He must account, when Audit-day is come.  
And, of necessity, to all, he must  
Be righteous, who will to his own be just;  
Since, universal Justice, must make strong  
His Arm, who would defend his own from wrong;  
And, he who to this Virtue, is inclined,  
Becomes, as well, a friend to all Mankind  
As to his Native People, when they need  
Protection, and from Tyrants to be freed.   

This, is a true PROTECTOR; such a one  
As I desire, should ever fill the Throne  
Of these three Nations: And, if he prove such  
Who governs now, I'll never think it much  
To sacrifice my life, and all I have,  
His Person, Power, and Dignity to save  
From his Maligners: whereas, if that he  
Who ruled the whole world, were so kind to me,  
As to advance me to the second place  
Within his Government; and when he was  
Removed by death, could, and would set me there  
Where he had sat; yet, if I certain were  
His heart stood not unfeignedly inclined  
To do (as he enablement should find)  
The duty of his place; I could not prise  
His Favours, nor his Greatness idolise,  
Nor truly love him: yet, would still be true  
Unto his Power, and give him all his due.   

This, a PROTECTOR is, according to  
The meaning of his Name. Thus, should he do.  
This, is that supereminent Degree,  
Whereto I strive, that he advanced should be  
Whom I inaugurate; and would hereby  
Transmit, to pass through all Posterity  
Among the Heroes, (whose wide-spreading Fames  
Make vulgar Appellations, and New-Names  
Grow honourable;) that, both far and near,  
This Title, high exalted may appear;  
Until it hath attained an esteem  
Beyond all Attributes in former time.  
Room, therefore; and henceforth let Names of Power,  
Such, as of Duke, King, Prince, or Emperor,  
Sophy, Grand Signior; and that, which they own  
Who, claim the wearing of a Triple Crown,  
Descend; that in their place I may enthrone  
The Title of PROTECTOR, which in One  
Contains all, which, their Attributes afford;  
Yea, all the world's grand Titles in one word:  
And, shall, by what it intimates, direct  
Till He, who these Dominions doth protect,  
Hath by example, taught, how to reduce  
All Governments to their intended use;  
Or, broke them into pieces, who, persist  
To tyrannize, and rant it, as they list.   

This, a PROTECTOR is, or aught to be;  
And, such a one as this, I hope, is He  
Who now reigns over us; although, as yet  
(To exercise our faith) GOD doth permit  
Some doubtings, and some few dissatisfactions;  
Because, we know not of his several Actions,  
The Grounds & Reasons: which, were they so known  
To us, as those Designs, that are our own,  
Would make, perhaps, these Nations to believe  
They should that great Deliverance receive  
Which they expect; and, by his means, receive it,  
(If they could be persuaded to believe it.)  
At least, so far forth, as they justly can  
Expect so great a Blessing, by a Man  
Subject to Frailties; and, who did on him  
Assume that heavy Burden, at that time  
Wherein, all things were to Confusion brought;  
And, wherein, Contrarieties were sought  
With so much violence, that, few, or none  
Knew what to crave, or what might best be done:  
When, for this Thing, one Faction madly bawled;  
When, for much differing things, another called;  
A third, for somewhat, which would quite destroy  
What both the former, craved to enjoy.  
When some drew back; when, others on did hurry  
To their Designments, with a headstrong fury:  
When, most, each others purpose did mistake,  
Or, of best Meanings, worst Construction make,  
Through weakness, or by being prepossessed  
With Pride, Overweening, or Self-interest:  
And, when those straits, and those Necessities,  
Which from the Powers preceding, did arise,  
Did him to Arbitrary Acts enforce,  
That, things grown much amiss, might not grow worse.  
For, these things, make it difficult to know  
What, really he is; what he would do;  
Or, what he can do, whilst our sins and passions  
Foment our Strife; or, whilst Misapplications,  
Misrepresentings, or suchlike, obstruct  
That Blessing, which GOD's mercy would product.   

If, likewise, we considered herewithal,  
That, when to this great Charge, he had this Call,  
It was, when our Unsetledness, had made it  
So hazardous, that none else would have had it;  
But such, as, probably, had, ere this day,  
Thereby, both to their own Designs made way,  
And, to our total Ruin: And, when, some  
Who did project, what now to pass is come,  
Did not, perhaps, intent so much, thereby,  
To raise him to a Supreme Dignity,  
As to ensnare him; and, to mount him to  
That eminence, in hope thereby to do  
His Adversaries work; and, him at length  
To weaken, by re-burth'ning him with strength.   

Were this considered; and, therewith, if we  
Well weighed, how great, yet, out Distempers be;  
And, what Necessity, and Prudence may  
Constrain him to, in that untrodden way,  
Wherein he marches; that, the Work begun,  
May not, dishonourably, now be done,  
Through want of Power; and, bring a sad return  
Of Mischief, with an everlasting Scorn:  
We would believe, his Actions did produce,  
What, rather, praise required, than excuse.  
Yea, by this Observation, and by what  
We know well done, we would not judge of that  
We know not yet; and, (by what we discern,  
Without suspect) as perfectly might learn,  
How, by his Foot, a harmless Lamb to draw,  
As to describe a Lion, by his Paw.   

But, who can us assure, that for our sin,  
Misunderstandings have not raised been  
'Twixt him and us; whereby, GOD's wrath may bring  
Those Mischiefs back, we suffered by a King?  
And, make our Surgeon, put us to more pain,  
Then those late wounds, whereof we did complain?  
What Peace, can we expect, if for such Times  
He was prepared, in which loud-crying Crimes  
(Still unrepented of) will not afford,  
A milder way of Curing, than the Sword?  
Or what reproof deserves that Instrument,  
Who, then, acts that, for which, he forth was sent?   

If I, should here, those sins enumerate,  
Which are revived in this Land of late;  
Yea, and improved, much beyond the Crimes  
Which I took heed of in my younger times:  
(And am perhaps preserved to be old,  
That, I, to some good purpose, might behold  
The works of GOD and Men; and, to this Nation  
Be serviceable in my Generation,  
For Future times:) It, plainly would appear,  
What, future Judgements, we might justly fear;  
And, that, it will be to my Maker's praise  
Hereafter, (although slighted in these days)  
To have it testified on record,  
How righteous he is still, in deed and word;  
How merciful, he to these Lands hath been;  
Even when, we, him correcting us have seen:  
And, how, in Love, he still proceedeth on,  
Though, still, we do as ill, as we have done.   

Should I, illustrate those Prevarications,  
Those Vanities, and those Abominations,  
Which are increased, since here we did pretend  
A Reformation; and, how some offend  
By gross Extravagances, whose false Zeal  
To GOD, to Justice, & this Commonweal  
Hath made them rich and great: how they could preach,  
And pray, till by pretendings, they did catch  
What they had preached & prayed for; &, how mute  
They are become, since they have reaped the fruit  
Of their Designs: Should I, illustrate, how  
They counter-act their former actings, now,  
And feigned Principles: with how much hast  
They follow them, whom their hands forth have cast,  
To all excess; and, how imprudently  
They do redintegrate, piece, and comply  
With those, that would destroy them; you, would dread,  
That, we deserved to be punished,  
More than our Predecessors; and, that He,  
Who should deliver us, our Scourge must be.   

Cursed be their Comments, who shall this apply  
To Him, or Them, who in sincerity  
Did preach, or pray, or act, in order to  
What Providence instructed them to do,  
And was well done: But let this be applied,  
Only to those, who swerved are aside  
From pious Principles, and sunk below  
Those Virtues, whereof, they had but the show.  
For, such there be; and, their Apostasies  
May, probably, prolong our Miseries.  
And, us, of that great happiness deprive,  
Which, we, by our PROTECTOR might receive.   

Should it prove so, how just soever he were,  
His Righteousness, would not to us appear;  
Nor is there possibility of Peace  
That will endure, till Wickedness decrease;  
Till Justice more be prized; more care be took  
Of Public Faith; mens private faith, less broke;  
Oppressed men more pitied; succours prayed,  
Not so much, and so needlessly, delayed;  
Burdens, sustained for the preservation  
Of Public weal, apportioned in the Nation  
More equally; and, till men grow more wise,  
To see wherein the Common safety lies.  
For, till these things be done, what Humane power  
Can save us from the Plagues which will devour?  
Who shall secure us? or, to what effect,  
Have we set up one Person to Protect,  
Or else to govern, or deliver us,  
From swift destruction, if it still be thus?  
What shall I say? what have we then to do,  
Save humbly to submit ourselves unto  
Some Course, that may reform what is amiss;  
Whilst means thereof, and time afforded is;  
And seek, by true Contrition, to revoke  
The Doom, that GOD, may supersede the stroke.   

The thought of this, hath brought me to a Pause,  
And, my Inspirer, now, from me withdraws  
That Influence, whereby I should proceed,  
On my first Text. For, here, there may be need  
Of some Digression, to another strain;  
That; what is spoken, be not said in vain.  
Yea, here, (as in such Themes, it is my fashion)  
A few words more, of Use and Exhortation,  
Precaution, and Precation, I will add;  
And, leave it unto those, for whom 'tis made;  
That, by the worst Events, which can befall,  
We may have Peace; and, God, the Praise of all.   

Let us be pleased his Pleasure should be done;  
And, for the time to come, let every one  
Be rather careful, his own ways to heed,  
Then fearful, how Another will proceed.  
Enough, we now our Brethren have oppressed,  
Let us, henceforth, afford them, ease and rest;  
That, GOD, may give us Peace, and save us from  
That Bondage, which will, else, upon us come.  
Let those, who have occasioned the Cries  
Of men oppressed, seek by a Sacrifice  
Of Righteousness, and both by Restitution  
Of Spoils, and willing Contribution,  
To take that Curse off, which on us is brought  
Through breach of Public faith (nigh set at nought.)  
For, till that be endeavoured, GOD will blast  
Our Counsels, and aside our Prayers cast;  
As we do theirs, who, grov'l at our feet,  
And, with sad Exclamations, fill the street.   

IT is not the cheap Oblations of Thanksgivings,  
With much Hypocrisy, and Mis-believings  
Profaned; nor Formal Fast, nor a Zeal  
Of settling this distracted Commonweal,  
For our own safety; which, will serve, alone,  
To expiate those Evils we have done:  
No, nor the fervour, wherewith we express  
Our Care of that Religion we profess;  
And, to explode all other, that will make  
Atonement for us, whilst the Rules we break  
Of Moral honesty: or, whilst we want  
That Love, which ought to be concomitant  
Therewith; and are not truly purged from that  
Which our Devotion, doth contaminate:  
For, undefiled Religion, doth consist  
In succouring the Widow, the Oppressed  
And Fatherless; of which, until we take  
More care, we, of our Faith, false boastings make:  
And, that Religion, which our Wits we strain  
To settle, will professed be in vain.   

Let us so labour, therefore, to enjoy  
Religious Truth, that, neither we destroy  
The Civil peace; nor, barbarously neglect  
Morality; whose wilful disrespect  
Destruction brings. To him, let us submit,  
Whom, GOD, hath raised up, on the Throne to sit.  
Let us conform, unto that Power, which IS;  
Because, all Powers that are, be only His  
To whom all Thrones belong; whether he hath  
In love, vouch safed it, or, in his wrath.  
For, unto whomsoever he commits  
That Power; or, whoever, full dominion gets,  
They will be inexcusable, who shall  
Reject, whom GOD, investeth therewithal;  
Since, if they bring us Peace, we are too blame,  
If we, with them, comply not in the same,  
Or, help not to improve it; though, it more  
Should cost, then would have bought it heretofore.   

Though, with a Sword they come, let us obey,  
Till he who sent it, takes the same away;  
Who, as he raised them, ere we were ware,  
Will cast them down, when we least able are,  
If they transgress their bounds, and shall forget  
To what intent, they on their Thrones were set.  
Yea, when to us, no likelihood appears  
Of Freedom, or deliverance from our Fears,  
GOD, will (even when for us too strong they grow)  
By their own Power, effect their overthrow.  
As upon those, who having heretofore  
Abused their Power, are to be seen no more.  
And, no Good man, shall need, his hand to rear  
Against them: for, enough there always were,  
And are, and will be; whom, Revenge, Despite,  
Self-interests, or Envy, will incite  
To execute GOD's wrath: and, in their sin,  
When Tyrant's rage, and hardened are therein,  
As Pharaoh. was; such things as they despise  
(Even Frogs and Caterpillars, Lice and Flies)  
Will waste them: yea, their own vain Wit and Will  
Should ruin them, though all things else stood still;  
And, they themselves, Traitors enough would raise,  
(Complying with them, in their evil ways)  
To root them out: the Madge gets which were bred  
By their rank Lusts, and by their Carrion said,  
Shall eat them up. And, these signs will forerun  
That Destiny, when their sad fall draws on.   

Projectors, Flatterers, and Buffoons, will then  
Find more esteem, then good and sober men:  
Prudent advice, and timely-spoken Truth,  
Shall be despised: Rash unexperienced youth,  
Like Rehoboam's Counsel, shall be heard,  
And grave advice obtain but small regard:  
The Temporizer, who, himself inclines  
To humour and to further their Designs,  
Shall find most favour; they, who saithful are  
To Public Interest, they, more shall fear  
Then their known Foes; and, them out of their way  
Remove, or else destroy them, if they may.  
And (mark this well) when that 's done, next of all,  
And quickly too, will follow their own fall.   

Be therefore, wise, ye Princes; Rulers, learn  
What, may your weal and honour, most concern.  
Be careful, that, you sin not against Him,  
Who, raised you, to a sovereign Diadom.  
As it becomes his Viceroys, govern so,  
That, to the world, his Justice you may show,  
For propagation of that Kingdom, here,  
Which we expect; and, will ere long appear.   

And Thou, whose Title, here I celebrate;  
Thou, who, hast opportunity of that  
Which may to GOD and Men, most pleasing be;  
(And, hast the means thereof, conferred on thee,  
First, and above all others;) lose thou not  
Those great advantages, which thou hast got,  
For all the proffers, which this world can make.  
To Sodom, or to Egypt, look not back,  
Lest, thou be made a Monument of Salt  
To keep those, who come after, from thy fault;  
Or, leave thy bones, obscured, by desolation,  
Within the Wilderness of thy Probation.  
Thou, who art now, the world's new Northern Star,  
Let, in thine Orb, no Course irregular  
(Obliqne or Retrograde) divert thee from  
Those motions, which, thy Circle best become;  
Lest, from that Heaven, in which thou now dost shine,  
Down to the Earth, thou back again decline.  
And, like the Star called Wormwood, bitter make  
Those waters, whence, we now refreshments take.  
Since, there are Constellations of some might,  
Whose motions, to thy Course, are opposite;  
Give no occasion of the sad effects,  
Which are portended, by their cross Aspects.  
Since, they, who love thee best, find in thy way,  
Great Dangers; Fear much, for thee; watch & pray:  
Oh! be not too secure; trust not upon  
What, may by humane Power, or Wit be done:  
But, cleave to him, who raised thee to this height;  
Yea, keeps thee on the Throne, in their despite:  
And, think thou hast great Cause, good heed to take,  
When, like a Man, thou hearest an Ass to speak.   

If we expect a Blessing, let us, too,  
Without Hypocrisy, our duties do,  
To those in Power: To him, partic'larly,  
That, over us, hath now the Sovereignty;  
With true obedience, not in show, or word,  
Ascribing, what our hearts do not afford:  
Nor let us seek, in secret, to deprive him,  
Of that, which openly we seem to give him:  
For, Falshood, shall be falsely dealt withal;  
And, Sand and Pebbles make as firm a wall  
In our defence, as either word, or deed,  
Which, from dissimulation, doth proceed.   

Let us not grudge at, what must make him able  
To do his Office, in an honourable  
And powerful way; lest, that, which fails thereby,  
On our account, to our own loss, may lie.  
If, to that end, he seeks accommodations,  
He seeks them, for the honour of these Nations,  
As well as for his own; and, more, perchance,  
The Public, than his private, to advance.  
And, what, too little, or too much will be  
To that end; he, may better know than we.  
If, in this late Establishment, he aims  
At Safety; it is no more than Nature claims;  
And, to accept of less, then may, in reason  
Thereto suffice, were by misprision treason  
Against the Dignity, on him bestown,  
And, may betray our Safety, with his own.   

We, whose abodes, are on the Globe below,  
Some motions of the Stars above, may know:  
But, it is impossible, that we should learn  
All things, which may their influence concern:  
And, 'tis not easy, for our eyes to heed  
What, they may be constrained to, in their need,  
Whose hands must tune so many differing strings,  
And have, in charge, so many thousand things.  
Though, such as mark not, that Emergencies  
Oft happen; and, that, perils may arise  
(Unthought upon) which, will necessitate  
The Supreme Officer, of every State  
To act some things, which are not warrantable  
By their known Laws: yet, wisemen (who are able  
To see how far, they justly, then, may go  
Beyond Set Rules) do rationally know,  
That, Arbitrary Power, in some degree,  
(And in some cases) must allowed be  
As if by Law expressed; or, that, all  
Earth's Governments, would into pieces fall.  
And, this, is but that Power, whereby we arm  
Each Private person, when a Common harm  
Is menaced: for, when a City burns,  
To save it, he pulls down, and overturns  
What, he thinks fit; and, takes away their right,  
From Some, that All, may not be rumed quite.   

No less, should be his Power, if need require,  
Who, may have otherwhile, a Gen'ral Fire  
To stop, or quench; by which, not only, one,  
But, many Cities, may be quite undone:  
Yea, three great Nations; for whose good, I trust,  
He will improve it, and, appear as just  
As I believe him; and, bring all, at last,  
Into a right Course, when the danger's past.  
Whate'er he proveth; whether by his will  
Or Law he Rules; or, cometh, for good or ill;  
Let all of us, o'er whom GOD gives him power,  
Make conscience, that the fault be none of our.   

For, though that this PROTECTOR, is not he  
Whom long we looked for; this was sent to be  
His Ways preparer; and, is, (though not that  
Supreme Protector) one, subordinate  
To him; and substituted for Probation,  
Both of himself, and of this Generation,  
In order to Christ's Empire; to break down  
Both our Self-confidences, and his own,  
As well as their, who have been mischievous  
Unto that Kingdom, which lies hid in us.  
Whereof, take heed, lest when you shall resist  
His Power, you take a part with Antichrist;  
And, in the stead of settling Common peace,  
Our Public Jars, and private Woes, increase.   

Heed, also, this; that, those Events, which shall  
Thereon succeed, are but conditional,  
To fail, or be effected, as, thereto  
Both Parties, shall conform, omit, or do:  
And, that this Title, likely to be made  
The most renowned, that ever Mortal had,  
May, by Prevarications, fall below  
The vilest Names, that Malice can bestow;  
And, that, what, we to build up have presumed,  
May, by a fiery trial, be consumed.  
Should it so prove, then, therewith mindful be,  
That, our works only, would be lost; not we:  
And, that, we need not to despair or fear,  
(If, to a Right Foundation, we adhere)  
Whatever follows: for, best speed we shall,  
When, we are Nothing; and, GOD's All in All.   

But, should our North-star be removed from hence,  
Or, we deprived of his Influence  
By Counter-working Powers, (which, to suspect  
I am not prone) I fear, that sad effect  
Will come to pass by some default of our;  
As, by our Envy, murmuring at his Power;  
Or, else, by some way, him provoking so,  
That, GOD may leave him, his own will, to do,  
For our just punishment; and, therewithal  
Permit him, through some Oversights, to fall  
Into such errors, or such negligences,  
As, on himself, may bring sad Consequences.   

Moses, the best and meekest of all men  
In his time living, and, perhaps, since then;  
By being, thus exasperated, lost  
The honour, to be Leader of GOD's Host  
Into their promised land; and, after all  
His glory, in the wilderness did fall:  
Thus, for like Provocations, GOD oft hath  
Set over Nations, RULERS, in his wrath;  
And, for some oversights, makes Kings, to share  
In those Corrections, wherewith scourged they are.  
Thus, heretofore, for Isr'els' wickedness,  
King David, was permitted to transgress;  
And, thus, we, and our Chief, for what is ill,  
In us, may be joynt-suff'rers; yet, he, still  
Continue in Uprightness, as to that  
Which doth concern him, in his best Estate.  
For, though Detraction, raised by his Foes,  
(And, no less, by the Levity, of those  
Who, own him love and duty) strives to veil  
His Worth; by showing, wherein he doth fail  
Their expectations: yet, (for aught I see)  
His Actions hitherto, not only be  
Unblameable, but also ought, at least  
By an acknowledgement, to be expressed  
(All things considered) with high applause,  
As bringing welsare as the Public cause.   

And, therefore, though the nature of my Theme,  
Doth not invite me now, to speak of him,  
But, of his Title only; And, though none  
Should give their Plaudits, till the Play be done;  
(Or, crown men, till the Coronation-day,  
Which is their last) yet, somewhat I will say  
To hint, in brief, what, more at large, I might  
Express, should I, a Panegyric write:  
Yea, in despite of Envy, (though by him,  
I should no more be favoured, then by them  
Who hate me) I'll with confidence aver,  
And, maugre Malice, make it to appear,  
That, if he had not often, great things done,  
Beyond mere humane hope, and far outgone  
All precedents of Senators, or Sages,  
Princes, or Captains, in preceding Ages,  
And all those, who had lately Supreme Power,  
We had not been a Nation, at this hour,  
Enabled to subsist, within our doors;  
Or, from Invasion, to have kept our shores.  
Whereas, we now, are by the Sword of GOD,  
In this Protector's hand, bowed to, abroad;  
In Peace at home; enabled to assist  
Our friends; emboldened, where we list,  
To spread our Sails: The Envy grown, of those  
Who slighted us; made dreadful to our Foes;  
And, in so short time, that, the work was done  
Almost, as suddenly as 'twas begun.  
Nay, more than this, (if more than this, can be  
Achieved for our advantage) it is He  
Who, was that happy Instrument, whereby  
GOD, saved us from a barbarous Anarchy;  
And, from a Tyranny, which had, perhaps,  
Appeared ere thy, in many several shapes;  
And, may, yet, seize us, if Sin should deprive  
This Commonwealth, of her Preservative.   

This, is so evident, that I believe,  
His Enemies, my witness will receive;  
And, that a feigned Poem, in his praise,  
We need not, by Hyperboles, to raise;  
Or, by strained Metaphors, which, make him, more  
Envied then honoured: And, the Cause wherefore  
I wave those Strains, is, lest, in stead of watering  
Virtues, with modest Praises; I, by flattering  
Might hap to drown them; and, destroy that end,  
Whereto, my rational endeavours tend.   

That, therefore, those good aims may be effected,  
Whereto, they are intentionally directed,  
Let us, with humble and true Self-denial,  
Submit to tarry out our days of trial;  
And, if some yet, among us, doubtful are  
Whether, by GOD, or men advanced he were,  
Let them, (as wise Gamaliel did advise)  
Wait, without offering force, what from success  
May be resolved: For, sure more dangers will  
Rise from resistance, then from sitting still.  
Jointly let us assent, in carry'ng on  
That work, which GOD, appointeth to be done;  
And, not deprive ourselves of real good,  
To settle an uncertain Likelihood:  
If there were Likelihood of any thing  
Which, we by other means, to pass might bring,  
Conducing more unto our happiness,  
Then, what the Course in act, yet promises.   

Let us recall, with due considerations,  
What, hath been long time suffered by these Nations,  
Through those destructive Discords, lately bred  
Betwixt the People's trusties, and their Head;  
As also, 'twixt themselves: Let it be weighed,  
What Burdens were, thereby upon us laid,  
And, yet, lie heavy: Let the mournful cries,  
Of Families undone; the weeping eyes  
Of Childless mothers, and, the dying groans  
Of many Fathers, slaughtered with their Sons,  
(And, Friends imbrued in each others gore  
By Civil Wars) make us consider more  
What, may again befall; and, by regard  
To what hath been, prevent, what afterward  
May follow, if that Quarrel should renew  
In which, our Swords, unhappily we drew;  
And, which, would now, upon a worse Account,  
Revive; and, to a worse result amount.  
Oh! think of these things with a serious thought,  
Before Repentance be too dearly bought:  
And, suffer not, our former countless cost,  
In treasure, blood, and labour, to be lost;  
But, rather with due thankfulness to heaven,  
Enjoy in Peace, what, GOD hath left, or given.   

Let, for the future, none of us repine  
At that, which hath by Providence divine  
Effected been; but, patiently attend  
Till, he, who hath begun, shall make an end:  
For, whether to our weal, or we it prove,  
His ways are just, and all his works are love.  
Let us not change that Title which is given  
(For aught we know of) by decree from heaven:  
Nor, let a looking backward, on those things  
Which time, and ripeness, to their Period brings,  
Obstruct our looking forward; as if nought  
For our avail, could possibly be wrought  
Save by that Power, which once we idolised,  
Until it grew to be as much despised,  
As honoured heretofore; and mischievous  
Both to its own self-being, and to us.  
For, GOD, will have it known, that an Extent  
Is set to every State or Government;  
And, that there is no Kingdom, Power, or Glory,  
But, His, alone, which is not transitory.   

We have dim Revelations, of some things  
By, and through whose imperfect glimmerings,  
We grope, and stumble onward, toward that  
Which we by faith and hope have aimed at;  
Slipping, sometimes, beside the safest path,  
Or, on each other falling foul, in wrath;  
Because, we, but in part, see, whereunto  
Our Courses tend, or what we ought to do.  
Yet, we are bound, according, to that Light  
To make our Progresses, with all our might;  
And, not distrust th' affection of our Guide,  
How weak a means soever he provide:  
For, when we find ourselves, quite in the dark,  
And, where Light-real, casteth forth, no spark,  
We must stand still; and, totally resign  
Our selves, unto that Providence divine,  
Which governs all; lest, such false lights appear  
As those, wherewith, all men deluded are,  
Who, in such straits, are tempted to despair;  
To murmur; or, their losses to repair,  
By wicked means; And, so, in hope to shun  
A Hazard, unto Death's assured run.   

As our Affairs now stand, we seem, like those  
Whom, on both sides, high mountains did enclose  
Not to be climbed; whose foreright march was barred  
By Seas, through which, no hope of pass, appeared:  
Who had behind their backs a powerful Host  
By whose swift coming on, all means was lost  
Of safe Retreats: They could not downward dive;  
Nor knew they, how to get to heaven alive:  
But, they a Moses, and an A'ron had,  
Who, lately, for them, had a passage made  
Through no less difficulties: yea, their GOD  
Did manifest among them his abode  
Even in that Straight, and, forward, made them go,  
With safety, and triumphant honour too.   

Observe the Parallel: Divisions, here,  
Have raised Factions, which, like Mountains are  
On each hand straightening us: before our eyes,  
Much People, like the Red-sea, raging lies,  
And, murmuring, as if a Pass were sought,  
Whereby, their Liberties, would come to nought:  
That Pharaoh, and his servants, from whose yoke,  
We are escaped; encouragement have took  
To follow after us (as if, they thought  
Not Providence, but Chance, our freedom brought:)  
And, even this Earth and Air, gives food and breath  
To those, that have with them conspired our death.  
Yet, we have still a Moses in our Camp;  
And, those, on whom, there doth appear the stamp  
Of A'rons' sanctity; and, (which is more)  
God, still, with us, abides as heretofore.   

Why, should we then desist to trust upon  
His kindness, who so much for us hath done?  
Can we suspect, that he, whose mercy gave us  
A man impow'red, and qualisied to save us  
From our Oppressors; did intent that he  
Should make us presently his slaves to be?  
Did any grudge at Moses, whom he sent  
For their Deliverer; but such as went  
Down quick to hell? or, those whom he did slay  
With fire from heaven, or, from earth took away  
By his immediate hand? Nay, when King Saul  
He in his wrath, up to the Throne did call,  
Were any then displeased therewithal,  
But wicked men, and sons of Belial?  
Oh! take good heed, whose Justice, you accuse;  
Whose Goodness, and whose Mercy you abuse.  
Be not, still faithless; but, on him depend,  
Whose loving kindness, hath nor change, nor end.  
Learn, but so well to know him, as you may,  
And, by that knowledge, you will find the way  
To love him so, that you from thenceforth, shall  
With your estates, your bodies, souls, and all,  
Intrust him; and, admit of no suspect  
That, his Designs, can have an ill effect,  
Concerning you; or, that, the Power, or failing,  
Of others, can obstruct your hopes prevailing.   

But, if you cannot, upon him rely,  
What, will you do? To whose help, would you fly?  
Affairs, will not succeed, as many dream.  
We are at such a loss, that things which seem  
To some, most likely, will not be effected,  
According to the mode they have projected.  
We see our old Foundations broken down;  
We see the Powers we had, quite overthrown;  
We find, that our own wisdom, is unable  
To counsel us; and, so unprofitable  
(Through Contradictions) that, it doth but add  
New fears, or jealoufies, to those we had;  
And menace dangers, likely to be more  
Destructive, than our Troubles heretosore.  
The present time, is almost wholly spent  
A general Destruction, to prevent;  
And those men, by whose private Interest,  
The Public strength, and safety doth subsist,  
Are without remedy exposed the while,  
To sure, and irrecoverable spoil:  
Which, when this Commonwealth restored appears,  
Will leave them, in their triumphs, little shares.   

Would you return again, unto the Power  
First laid aside? That, rather will devour  
Then bring us help: All, that this Island hath  
Will not suffice to satisfy his wrath,  
With their Ambition, Avarice, and Lust,  
Who, in, upon your Rights, with him, will thrust:  
Yea, many, who, now hope, they shall acquire  
Great things thereby, will perish in that fire;  
And, none of those, who think most safe to be  
Shall from the common mischief, then, be free.   

Would you resume the Power abolished, next?  
(Whereby you were so many ways perplexed?)  
Let it appear a Power; and, we will, then,  
If it be Righteous, give it place again.  
But it hath now no being: nor, was able  
To save it self, or to be profitable  
To others, whilst it reigned. We, have, now,  
An Image of it raised; but, who knows how  
It will comply with that, which raised it?  
And, if it shall not, what will then befit  
A prudent People? but, close to adhere  
To that, wherein, GOD's Power shall most appear?  
What reason is there, we should dote so much  
On our Old Staff, new pieced with a Crutch,  
That, if it shall be forced out of our hand,  
We will, thenceforward, neither go, nor stand?  
But, Childlike, (who, if he a toy desire,  
Throws all his other play-games into fire  
When that 's denied him) all our good destroy,  
Because, we may not somewhat more enjoy?  
Oh! heed this folly; and, be rather taught  
By Fools, then be Fools, and bring all to nought:  
For, GOD, by men and means, that most despise,  
Effects things, which the Prudence of the Wise,  
Doth but retard; and, where the means hath been  
Most weak; there, was his Power and Love, most seen.   

Make not, unjust suspicions of a failing  
In others; to obstruct, your own prevailing.  
He, upon whom, GOD's Providence bestows  
The Supreme Power, without all doubting, knows,  
Or may know, (yea, and shall know, late or soon,  
By some things past, or some things to be done)  
That, on his Good-behaviour, it is deigned;  
And, could not possibly, be long sustained,  
If, He, should leave him, from whom, he derives  
His strength, his honour, and preservatives.  
He, hath observed, (if my information  
Be true) that an inherent inclination  
To Tyranny, is found in every one,  
That is advanced to a sovereign Throne,  
Which will corrupt him wholly, by degrees,  
Unless by Grace, that danger he foresees,  
With watchfulness; still, labouring to possess  
His Spirit, in perpetual h●mblexess,  
And, 'twixt his people, and himself, to make  
No difference, but, for his Callings sake.   

His wisdom, shows him what unstableness  
There is, in all, that he doth, yet possess:  
He, finds by this time, what it is to take  
The weight of three great Kingdoms on his back,  
What hazards he is in, as well by those  
Who, seem to be his friends, as by his foes:  
Yea, well enough he sees, what hardship stands,  
Before him, and what downfals at both hands;  
And, will not therefore, doubtless, be so mad  
(When an assured safety may be had)  
To live in danger; or, to blot the Story  
Which, hath so much recorded to his glory;  
By acting, or intending, what may turn  
His far-spread honour, to his future scorn.   

To trust him, therefore, why should we refuse  
Whom we did trust? and when we cannot choose?  
Nay, when, by cur distrust, we cannot snun  
Those Rocks, on which, we likely are to run?  
Or, what, adventures either He, or We  
(Since, in an equal hazard, both yet be)  
So both be safe; and, he hath power to do  
That Work, which GOD hath called him unto,  
If, both, submit unto the frugal cost,  
Of yielding Part, that, All may not be lost?  
And, give unto each other, that, whereby  
Both may be strong, against an Enemy  
Which threatens both? and, who, may else destroy  
Both Parties, and possess what both enjoy?   

For, your Maligners, do the world surround;  
Have Snares above, and Engines underground;  
A Party, both abroad, and here at home;  
As well in London, as in France and Rome:  
Spies, in your houses, watching what ye do;  
Yea, in your Chambers, and your Bosoms too:  
Nay more; they hope, if their close Plots do fail,  
That, they, by your misactings, may prevail,  
Through, their infusing that, into your breasts  
Whereby they may advance their Interests;  
And, when their Power, is quite enfeebled grown,  
'Cause you, to be destroyed by your own.   

Hear, and believe me, (who have oft foretold,  
What, some found true, though few regard it would)  
This, is designed: yet, you may, ne'ertheless  
In safety be, if, by your wilfulness  
You let not Opportunities pass by,  
Which, now, are in your hand, and in your eye:  
An entrance into Rest, GOD, would now give,  
If, you, will in humility believe.  
Believe then: and, although you do not heed  
GOD's promises; believe, what he by deed  
Hath warranted, (with many gracious Pledges  
Thereof, vouchsafed in our Pilgrimages;)  
And hath, with signal wonders ratified  
That, diffidence, withdraw us not aside.  
Those mercies passed, which foretokens were  
Of more to come, consider, as they are  
To be considered; lest, they aggravate  
Our sins, and, bring us to that sad estate  
Which we were in; and, wheel us back again  
To Egypt, there, for ever, to remain.   

And, know this; (for, I nothing dare conceal,  
Which, now, my heart inclines me to reveal)  
That, they, who for Self-interest, enforce  
A final breach; (and, of so great a Curse;  
Needless occasions, wilfully do give)  
With Hypocrites, their Portion shall receive;  
Who, are the worst of sinners; and whose doom  
Is, to possess in Hell, the lowest room.  
Yea, know, if we unite not in the day  
Wherein, GOD offers Peace, (and, whilst we may)  
The time, will be but short, betwixt the Power  
That, doth Protect; and, that, which will devour.   

But, LORD, prevent what's threatened; & suppress  
That wicked Spirit of Contentiousness,  
Which now doth reign: and, though we merit not  
This Grace; yea, though, we have almost forgot  
What Bondage we were in; what Rest we want;  
And, whereto, we are bound by Covenant;  
Save us! Oh, save us, in this present Crisis  
Of Good, and Ill, and, from our own Devices.  
Assist us, in performing our Conditions,  
That, thou mayst have the Praise of our fruitious,  
And, we, the Comfort; who, are at this day,  
Upon the verge of being cast away,  
Or of admission to that blessed Rest,  
In which consists, our noblest Interest.   

Let not th'enjoyment of a glorious Blessing,  
Now offered; (and, not far from our possessing)  
Be vacated by us, who, are to share  
The greatest part, in what thou wilt confer  
If thankfully received: Let not that  
High Title, wherewithal thou hast of late  
Thy servant honoured, work effects on him  
Like those, which usually are found in them,  
Who, seek themselves: nor, let Initiations,  
So far beyond our hopes, our expectations,  
And, former Precedents, be like the blaze  
Of Comets, which, a while amuse, amaze,  
Or some way cheer beholders in the night  
Of their Afflictions, and, then, vanish quite.  
But, let them grow and rise, until they are  
Improved, into a glorious fixed Star.   

Let not my much unworthiness, by whom  
This Suit is made, a bar thereto become;  
Nor cause those, with the less effect to heed  
Those Cautions, which, I give them, now, to read.  
For, through an earthen trunk though 'tis expressed,  
(Or, by a Rams-horn-trumpet, at the best)  
Thy Spirit lent the breath, which gives the sound,  
And, will not let it be quite useless found;  
But make it pertinent unto their shame,  
Or to their honour, who shall hear the same.  
It tunes, a well-known Note; here's nothing spoke,  
In Riddles, which may doubtfully be took,  
As heretofore, when I was so inspired  
To speak, as our Condition, then, required.  
These Counsels, though, a man unwise may give them,  
A wise man, without blushing, may receive them;  
And, he that sitteth in the highest place  
May heed them with more honour, than disgrace,  
If, he as well consider shall, from whom  
They may be sent, as by whose hand, they come.  
This, is a Piping, which the Babes who play  
Within the Marketplace, soon practice may  
To dance unto; and, 'twill be well for them,  
If, now, their Fathers, do not so contemn  
This Music, that hereafter, they begin  
In stead thereof, a bloody Matachin.  
For, though, these Warnings, come in that disguise  
Which Ignorance, and flouting Wits despise:  
And, is a kind of Preaching, which these times  
Esteems no better, then of scurrile Rhymes:  
This, will appear, one of those many ways,  
Whereby, GOD, speaks unto these later days;  
And, which, if slighted, will be scored among  
Those Warnings, that, have been contemned, too long.    

A RECALL to the Reader.  

MY POEM'S done; yet, prithee READER stay:  
I have another word or two, to say,  
Wherewith, before thou hence departed, I will  
These following leaves of empty paper fill:  
That, if it shall be possible, I might  
Once in my life, to thy advantage write,  
And, of my labour, view some fruit, before  
I, there am laid, where, I shall speak no more;  
And, that, those Truths, which I have oft, in vain,  
Spoke mildly, be not echoed forth again  
With dreadful Repetitions, unto those  
Who, to my Charms, their Adder's ears now close;  
Or, scorn, and slight them, as fantastic dreams,  
Or, needless descants, upon trivial Themes.   

Having perused this, what art thou the better?  
Unless, thou find arising from the Letter,  
That Spirit, which begot these words in me,  
The Soul of them, infusing into thee?  
With credit of their Truth, and with a sense  
Of that, eternal Love's, sweet influence,  
Which, for thy welfare, did my heart incline  
To pour forth my Affections, into thine?  
That, thou mightst, timely, take from hence occasion  
Of due resolvings, for thy preservation:  
For, on this fatal juncture of Affairs,  
Either thy Ruin, or else, thy Repairs  
Do now depend; and, will have an effect,  
According, as thy Course, thou shalt direct.   

What, wilt thou profit by it, if thou, still,  
Retainest a Perverseness in thy Will?  
How ill dost thou requite me, if, my Love  
No change in thy affections, hereby move?  
Since, I, desire no other recompense,  
But, that, thou mayst have benefit from hence?  
And, I, that small share, which a single one  
Hath in that good, which is to many done?  
And, with, how little comfort, shall I speak  
Another time, if, no effect, this take?   

What, had I thereby lost, if unexpressed,  
These things, had still remained in my breast?  
Since, I had been, whilst they continued there,  
The same I am, now they divulged are?  
Or, what, by setting thus my heart at large,  
Gain I, except, my Consciences discharge,  
With some weak hopes, that, thou, and others, may  
Be benefited, by the words I say?  
Sure, none: Then, grudge me not that small effect,  
Which, from this Friendly service, I, expect  
By thy improvement; in which profit, thine  
Will be a Portion, far exceeding mine.   

If, for my sole Advantage, thou believe  
I, publish this; thy think, thee deceive;  
Nor, Profit, or Protection, peace or praise  
Do I obtain, or look for, in these days  
By such Expressions; or, by Services  
Which are so little cared for, as these.  
Whilst many, sad Confusions on us lies;  
Whilst, most men, their own safety do despise;  
And, when, few, any Cautions much regard,  
Save those, whereby, vain ends may be preserved;  
I shall, to this intent, prevail no more  
Then if I should endeavour, to outroar  
The Winds and Seas. I have, now, year, by year,  
And almost day by day, attended there  
Full twice six years; where, was within one wall  
A perfect Representative of all  
Within this Isle, both at the best and worst;  
And I so well observed it, from the first,  
Even to the last; and, by that Model, see  
So truly, what of those may judged be  
Whom they did represent, that I presume  
God's providence constrained me to consume  
So many hours, to wait on them in vain,  
That, by such loss, I, better things might gain.   

What can be got by words? where sighs, & groans,  
And tears, & cries, move men no more than stones?  
When five, or ten, or twelve whole years delay  
Shall be no more considered than a day?  
And, when nor wants, nor justness of the Cause,  
Nor Importunity, compassion draws;  
Or, where few Suits are brought to wished end  
But by a Bribe, or some corrupted friend?  
What, can be got by words, desired by none?  
When deeds, which, for the Public weal were done,  
And, begged for, with a vowed Retribution,  
Have neither good respect, nor restitution?  
Where, setious Protestations, are forgot?  
Where promises, seem things intended not?  
And, when most men, resolved seem, to cherish  
Their wilfulness, although thereby, they perish?   

If, for my words, receive again, I may  
Respective words, I take it for large pay,  
And, 'twill enough content me, if my will  
To do thee good, be not repaid with ill;  
Or, if I may but know, ere it is too late,  
My hope, of what is justly aimed at,  
Shall be denied, with loss of no more cost,  
Or, time, then is thereon, already lost:  
For, such a mercy, many had prserved,  
Whom fruitless hopes have beggared, yea, & starved.   

If, thou suppose, I, gain, by what I writ;  
Consider it, and thou such thoughts wilt slight.  
What profit is it, which, thence raise he may  
Who writes, and prints, and freely gives away  
At his own charge? and, doth expect no more,  
But, good acceptance, and the reading over?  
What gain I, else, for time and labour spent,  
But, to my face, perhaps, a Compliment?  
And, sometimes, when my back is turned about,  
A secret sleight, or, else, an open flout?   

What Patronage, have I, yet thereby gained  
Through which, my cause, or person, is sustained?  
What favours, am I likely to obtain,  
Who flatter not the proud, nor soothe the vain?  
But, rather, venture Freedom, and Estate,  
Then, not to speak truth home; or, speak too late  
So, need require it; so, my free expression  
Wrongs not the Common Peace, nor sound discretion  
Nor Innocents'; nor, those, who guilty are,  
Arraigneth anywhere, save at the Bar  
Of their own Consciences, by Writs, that come  
In gen'ral terms, and to I know not whom?   

If, thou conceive, that, I ambitious am  
Of Praise hereby; Thou, therein art too blame.  
What praise, from POETRY, can I expect,  
Which, finds an Epidemical neglect?  
Chief, from such as mine, upon such Themes  
As I oft choose? and, when both winds and streams  
Against me are? and, also, in a time,  
When Poetry itself is thought a crime?  
When, they, who would reputed be, most holy,  
Look on it, as Profaneness, or mere folly?  
When, they, you call the WITS, all strains disgust  
That, soothe not vanity, or stir up lust?  
Or, are not, with forced metaphors, and words  
(Whose juncture, neither perfect sense affords,  
Nor any useful matter) sent abroad  
Dressed, and trimmed up, in their affected mode?  
And, when the most part, are so ignorant,  
That, they, sufficient understanding want  
To read a Verse? and, put no difference  
'Twixt best Composers, and that base nonsense  
Which, Pedlars, up and down the Country bring,  
And, Rogues and Whores about the City sing?   

Nor, is my Peace, or safety to be got  
Thereby; and, doubtless, if I know it not,  
I am a fool: for, I, have often lost  
My Freedom by it, with no little cost.  
He, that their Courses, constantly gainsays,  
Who, Ahab-like, are wilful in their ways,  
From them, gets nothing, by his contradiction,  
But, Micah's bread and water of affliction.  
And, what on my Remembrancer, ensued,  
(Which, thousands in my time, fulfilled have viewed)  
Informs me fully, what retaliation  
I, am to look for, from this Generation.   

Who, then can think, that, he, who doth expose  
His thoughts, as I have done, to friends and foes,  
Amidst so many Factions? (when, but one  
He well can please, and, peradventure none?)  
Who then, I say, can think, that outward rest  
Was his chief aim? or, his own Interest  
The mark he shot at? or, that he shall ever  
Find Peace external, whilst, he doth persever  
In such a Course? until, a change, GOD brings,  
As well in Manners, as in other things?   

Such, only, hitherto, hath been my lot,  
That, I, in sixty six years have scarce got  
Six months together of that common Rest,  
Which is by many, all their life possessed;  
And, now of late, unto what Side soever,  
Or, Principle, I truly did adhere:  
Some men of all Sides; even of That, whose Cause  
Hath had my suffrages, pen, purse, applause,  
And faithfullest aid, hath brought as sad effects  
On me, by their despites, or disrespects,  
As have all they, whose more deserved hate,  
My Pen, for their sakes, did exasperate.  
Nay; would it were no worse: By some of those,  
I suffer more, then, by our common Foes.  
Which, here, I mention, only to prevent  
A false surmise; and, not in discontent:  
For, I, embrace my Portion, with ,  
And, would not change it, with the best man living!   

To sum up all, and give thee my best pledge  
For my good meaning, in what I allege;  
I hereby call to witness, Him, that knows  
What, in my heart, I secretly propose,  
That, my chief purpose in divulging this,  
Is, to reform, those things which are amiss  
Both, in myself, and others: to make strong  
His hand, to whom this Title doth belong:  
And, to preserve that Peace, which, being lost,  
More than our lives, and our estates may cost.  
I look for nothing, but to be abused  
And, some way to be wrongfully accused  
By those whom this distastes, that, it may seem  
The less worth hearing, by my disesteem:  
And if his Virtue, who must break the blow  
Defend me not, I'm sure it will be so.  
I nothing seek on me to be bestown  
Save only that, which is by right mine own;  
To disengage me from the world; wherein  
(And wherewith) I, unwarily have been  
Too far, of late, engaged; and, from whom  
I cannot fairly disobliged become,  
Without a Retribution, of such things  
Which she hath lent; yea, which her promisings  
Emboldened me to take; (and, which, she knows  
That, more than twice told, she unto me owes,  
Upon a just Account.) But, were I free,  
I hope she should not re-entangle me  
In aught, save what will visibly pertain  
More to the Public, than my private gain.  
For, my ambition, is to live and die  
Henceforth, unheeded; and, retired to lie  
Where, I a little while, without annoy,  
My self, with my relations, may enjoy:  
And, then, resign my place, to him, that must  
Supply it, when I slumber in the dust.   

But if this be too great an earthly bliss,  
For my enjoyment; yet I'm sure of this,  
That, I shall there be laid, ere it be long,  
Where, I shall have no sense of right or wrong;  
And, though I nothing have, rest quiet, there,  
Where, I shall also, neither want, nor care.   

This Postscript, READER, is on thee bestown,  
To rouse thy Spirit, and hold up mine own;  
(Who, have enough to do, to keep my mind  
Close to that work, for which I was designed,  
Amid those great temptations, and desertions  
Which set before me manifold diversions:)  
And, if, thou make me, now, no recompense,  
For this my Pains, by drawing profit hence  
Unto thyself; thou, wholly, wilt destroy,  
That, which I hereby hoped to enjoy,  
And, dost me wrong. To thee, thus much, to tell  
I had a mind: which being done, Farewell.  
Henceforth, say, or or gainsay; do, what ye will;  
(Let him, that's filthy, so continue still.)  
I've done my part, to make clean what was foul;  
I, to my power, have here discharged my Soul,  
Of what it had in charge; and, on this string  
Will strike no more: But for the future sing  
To GOD, and to myself, till they appear  
Who come with eyes to see, and ears to hear.   
FINIS.