Three private meditations which being, for the most part, of publick concernment, are therefore published, by their author / George Wither. Wither, George, 1588-1667. 1665 Approx. 80 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 25 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2006-06 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A66784 Wing W3197 ESTC R12458 12931663 ocm 12931663 95694 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A66784) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 95694) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 993:29) Three private meditations which being, for the most part, of publick concernment, are therefore published, by their author / George Wither. Wither, George, 1588-1667. 48 p. s.n.], [London : 1665. Reproduction of original in Huntington Library. In verse. A private thank-oblation consisting of three hymns -- A sacrifice of praise and prayer -- Nil ultra. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. Gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. 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Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Great Britain -- History -- Restoration, 1660-1688 -- Poetry. 2005-07 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2005-08 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2006-01 Emma (Leeson) Huber Sampled and proofread 2006-01 Emma (Leeson) Huber Text and markup reviewed and edited 2006-04 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion Three Private MEDITATIONS Which being , for the most Part , of Publick Concernment , are therefore Published , by their Author GEO. WITHER . The First , is a Private Thanksgiving , consisting of three Hymns , whereby , GOD is magnified for his Mercy vouchsafed in the late Ingagement between the English and the Dutch , in June 1665. Composed after Celebrating the Publick Thanksgiving commanded by the King. The Second , is a Sacrifice of Praise and Prayer , by him offered to Almighty GOD , for his providential respect , to Him , his Wife and Children , during his Imprisonment in the disgraceful Goal of Newgate , when left destitute of all ordinary means of subsistance , by being deprived both of his Estate and Liberty . The Third , Intituled NIL ULTRA , is a Soliloquium , wherein , this Author , expresses the improbability , of an effectual proceeding further , to prevent the Sins & Plagues increasing , by ought , which he can offer to consideration . Imprinted in the Year , 1665. A Private THANK-OBLATION Consisting of Three Hymns , whereby Almighty GOD is magnified for his Mercy vouchsafed in the late Ingagement between the English and the Dutch , in June 1665. after Celebration of the Publick Thanksgiving commanded by the King. The first Hymn , is a Preparation of the heart , to the duty intended . NOw , what to GOD's praise belongs , I will sing in holy Songs ; Who , shall from his heav'nly Quire , With such straines my heart inspire , That , ( though distant ) I , and they Therein , joyn together may : For , his influenced Grace Is not bard , by Time or Place . 2. Let his Raies of Light Divine , In me , and upon me shine ; Let his holy spirit shake Drousie flesh , till it shall wake ; Touch my Lips , unlose my Tongue , That his Praises may be sung ; For , till rouz'd up , from on high , Dark , and dull and dumb am I. 3. Humane words , cannot impart What GOD speaketh to my heart , Nor my faultring tongue declare All his Operations there , Yet , I am compell'd sometimes , In plain Verse , and broken Rimes , Thus , to stammer out such things , As to me the spirit brings . 4. To extol what GOD hath done , Here , I mus●ng am alone ; And , do praise him in my heart For what none can claim a part : But , what to his praise belongs Ile now sing in Vocal songs And , will so his praise declare That , no man shall therein share . The Second Hymn being an imperfect Narrative and confession to Gods glory , of what he hath done for us , in the late Ingagement ; how little , we have merited the mercies vouchsafed ; and how merciful GOD hath been to both Nations . LORD , in a publick meeting , I , this day Have joyn'd , a Sacrifice of Thanks to pay ; And , being warmed at the common fire , ( By what external notions could inspire ) To perfect that which is begun , ( And ought in duty to be done ) I , now withdraw into my heart , To speak to thee , who therein art ; And learn , how , I may to thy praise , So sanctifie my words and wayes , That , henceforth , they may more conduce unto Thy glory , then they heretofore could do . Oh! let my Meditations be Made acceptable unto thee . 2. For Victory confer'd , we prais'd thy Name ; We hear , our foes have likewise done the same . And doubtless , whosoever lost or won , To thee , are praises due for what is done , Yea , no less praise for what is lost , Then that , for which we triumph most ; The one our pride may elevate , The other , humble us , for that Which was mis-acted , or mis-spoke : For , Thou , who heed of both hast took , So graciously , oh Lord , hast shar'd betwixt Both Nations , sweet with bitter , intermixt , That , no man , this day duly keeps , Save he , who therein sings and weeps . 3. For , all Transactions , which concern in gross Our publick , or our private gain , or loss ( And , which unto our knowledge , fame doth bring ) Well-weighd ) gives cause , no less to weep , then sing . The good successes we have had Abate some fears to make us glad ; The hopes , which those events do give ( Of what we willingly believe ) So high our expectations rear As if , he we were above all fear . But , when we hear the many Lamentations For loss of Limbs , Lives , and belov'd Relations , To sadness , all our Ioy it turns , And , he , who much rejoyced mourns . 4. A final Conquest is not yet obtain'd ; That , rarely with one Victory is gain'd : For , they who loose at first , at last , may win , By mending faults , with which , they did begin . And , they who did at first prevail , Find , oftentimes , their hopes to fail Because to trustless things they trust , Or else , employ to feed their Lust , That , which thy Majesty intends Should strengthen them to better ends . When , therefore most Victorious we appear , Let us rejoyce , but , with a trembling fear , Lest , when the rowling wheel shall turn , We , who rejoice , find cause to mourn . 5. Thou art but little pleas'd ( if ought at all ) To see us triumph , when our foes do fall ; Especially , when they ( though ours they be ) Are thy known enemies , no more then we . To be our GOD , we thee profess ; They ( to our knowledge ) do no less . We say , our trust is in thy Name , They may as truly , say the same . Their sins are many ; we are sure ( Or may be ) that , ours are not fewer . We have not yet , our hopes at full enjoy'd ; Nor are their expectations quite destroy'd ; To praise thee therefore , we and they , Are equally oblig'd this day . 6. We say , the Dutch to us ingrateful be , Our Conscience tells us , we are so to thee . They with our Nation cruelly have dealt ; Our inhumanity , thy Saints have felt . Their Avarice , makes them oppress ; Ill husbandry and idleness , Have made our wayes , as grievous prove , To those , who seek for peace in love . And , we , and they pursue the course Most likely , to make bad things worse . Then , Lord , which off us , justly can expect That , our Contests , should have a good effect ? Or , that the one should have a place Above the other in thy Grace ? 7. Had it so pleased thee , thou at first Shock , Both Earthen Pitchers , mightst have justly broke ; But they , ( as if they had been made of leather ) Are onely bruiz'd by being knockt together : Which , in meer love , to us and them , Thou didst vouchsafe , to give us time , With more advisement to take heed , What , by Contention will succeed ; Lest both before their quarrels end , Be broke like pots , which none can mend . Lord , were there but that mercy , and no more , In that , which we pretend to praise thee for , It merits from this , and that Nation , An everlasting Thank-oblation . 8. For , in this mercy , unto both extended , Are very many mercies comprehended , So complicated , one within another , And , to thy Judgments , linked so together , That , if we could be brought to learn How , they both Nations do concern ; To what , each Judgment doth direct , What every mercy might effect ; What , we should seek , what we should shun , And , what , ought timely to be done ; The wisest men among us , could not tell Whether , those things which us have pleased well , Or , that , which grieves us most , shall best Thy loving kindness manifest . 9. The Trophies , which most men delight to raise , As testimonies of a thankful praise , For what thou daign'st , are but a medly mirth , Of wholsome simples , mixt with coursest earth , Or , with such noisome weeds , as grow Upon dunghils here below , That , to thy nostrils and thine eyes , Offensive fumings vaporize , Which do provoke thine anger more , Then many errors heretofore : And , that which for thine honor , some pretend , Is for their own praise , or a baser end ; Either , to satisfie their Lust , Or , praise false gods in which they trust . 10. My GOD , look not severely upon this , Or , on ought else , that hath been done amiss ; For , no oblation can from us proceed , Which will deserve a favourable heed . Some of our offerings , now and then , May beneficial be to men , Or , to thy Saints on earth extend , If we confer them to that end For which , they seem to be bestown ( And , in their welfare , seek our own : ) But , to advantage thee , the precioust thing , Which , we to please , or to appease , can bring , Adds nothing ; though thou pleased art , With what comes from a faithful heart . 11. Be mindful still , that we are flesh and blood , Whence , nothing can expected be that 's good , Till by his Cross it shall be mortify'd , Who , to redeem it from corruption dy'd . Remember whereof we are made ; That ev'n the best of us are bad ; Our seeming sanctified joyes , Uncomely actions and rude noise , Which make thy best beloved sory , Instead of adding to thy glory . Oh! let hereof , a free unfain'd confession , ( A burnt oblation made by true contrition , And , hallow'd by Christs blood ) purge hence , All , that ▪ which gives to thee offence . 12. The more thou shalt inlarge our wealth and power , Our selves , let us lay down so much the lower ; And , rather use them to unite together In love , then in destroying one another . He , in the best mode gives thee praise , Who , ordereth aright his wayes ; Who , justifies thee in thy will , By thereunto , conforming still ; And brings to thee a contrite heart , Ascribing thereto no desert : This is , most gracious GOD , a sacrifice , Which thou didst never ( never wilt ) despise ; And , such a sacrifice , I pray Make that , which I present this day . 13. Unfaigned thanks my heart returns to thee , For that , which thou hast done , what e're it be , Against , or for us : hearty thanks we owe Both for what thou withholdst , and dost bestow . Prosperity is no true sign Who is a Favourite of thine ; Nor any one dost thou reject , Whom frequently thou dost correct , Unless he be more wilful far Then fraile , as very many are ; And whether thou dost give us wounds , or heal , It will at last conduce unto our weal , If we , ( but as we may ) persever In contributing our endeaver . 14. Two of thy greatest Plagues , on us , now lie ; The third is threatned , and seems very nigh : Thy other Judgments also scatred are So thick , though these three Kindoms evry where , That , by them , very few or none , Have scaped being seiz'd upon ; Or , being pincht , in what relates Unto their Person or Estates : Yet , sin doth most men so besot , As if thy frowns they feared not ; And , are more zealous others to destroy , Then , of the meanes their own peace to enjoy ; A madness , which worse plagues procures , Then pestilential Calentures . 15. Arise oh GOD , advance thy Throne on high ; Thy self , let thine own actings glorifie . Thy Justice and thy Mercy so unite That , they may honor thee in all mens sight . Rebuke those who delight in war , And , to thy Saints injurious are : Give peace to those , who peace affect , And , them from all their foes protect , That , Righteousness and Peace may hither Return , and here , still raign together . Thy foes , are now become exceeding strong , Thy coming , therefore , Lord , defer not long . But , I have done : for , thou , with powre Art coming , and wilt keep thine hour . 16. Dear GOD , this petty sacrifice of mine , Was took out of a Treasury of thine , And , of mine own , I , naught can thereto add , Except my heart , which , from thee , too , I had . Kept to thy self , now , let that be , And , never left again to me , Or wander thither , where it may Unto the world be made a prey ; Or , by the temptings of the Devil , Be drawn unto the love of evil ; Then , this ( and that , which I have heretofore , To praise thee offer'd ) thee , shal praise much more , Then many things , done , heard , and told , In Temples , deckt with silk , and gold . The third Hymn , proceeds to a thankful Illustration of GOD's deserved Praise , by acknowledging his Almightiness ; his observing what hath been openly and secretly done in ev'ry part of the world , by both the said Nations , and that no praise is justly due to either of us , but shame rather , for ought performed in the said Ingagement . MOst Almighty LORD of Hoasts , High Protector of our Coasts , Who , commandst , as thou dost please , Fire and Water , Earth and Seas ; Who , lookst down from heav'n , upon All that here on earth is done , And , survey'st her darkest parts , Ev'n the Crannies of mens hearts . 2. Thou beheldst the Prepartions Of these wilful Neighbring Nations ; Thou , hast heard what they have spoken , Heedest what such words betoken : Thou hast search'd out their Designs , With what thereto them inclines , And , knowst whether of the two , Is the worst , if one be so . 3. Thou , observest what was done ; Not in Africa alone Or , both Indies ; but , what was Done , likewise , in ev'ry place : Why the English and the Dutch Are divided now so much : What is false , with what is true ; And , to which most blame is due . 4. Thou remembrest , what Relations Have been long between these Nations , What professions to each other , They did make when knit together ; Yea , what they profest to thee , Which now seems forgot to be , As if they were not such men , Or such Christions , now , as then . 5. To prevent what is begun , Much , by thee , was timely done ; But , their Avarice and Pride , Them , did more and more divide . To self-will they did adhere Like men without wit , or fear ; So , thou leftst them both , to do What they were inclin'd unto . 6. Then , with Streamers and with Flags , Foolish vaunts , and shameless braggs , They weigh'd Anchors from the shore , Which , by some , was seen no more ; And , with an unchristian rage ' Gainst each other did ingage ; Fire and Water , in that hour , Striving which should most devour . 7. Dread of Death , that man amazes ; Noise , and smoke , and sudden blazes This man blinds , and deafneth so That , he knows not Friend from Foe . Some , are slain by their own Tools , Wise-men speed as ill as Fools ; Here , a Valiant Souldier dies , There , a Coward sprawling lies . 8. Loud the thundring Guns did roar , Sails , and Masts , and Keels were tore ; Ships , were either split , or fir'd ; Men , by thousands , there expir'd , This man sinks , and that man swims , Some escapd , with loss of limbs , But , to whether best befell , Thou alone , oh Lord , canst tell . 9. Horrid sights , and sounds without , Them assaulted round about , Which , in some , did thoughts begin That , rais'd greater Frights within ; And , though wounds did grieve them sore That , tormented them much more ; For , their pains , none can declare , Who , in spirit wounded are . 10. This , we know , that thou art just , As is ev'ry thing thou dost : Thou , art kind , and lov'st so well , That by woundings , thou dost heal . Thou art wise , and actest so , That , we thereby , we wise might grow ; And , by what was lately done , Might new mercies be begun . 11. Not to us , LORD , for the same , Be the praise , but , to thy Name : Unto us , for what was done , Nought belongs , but shame alone . We , were so much terrify'd , That , we knew not what we did , Nor yet seem to understand , What work , thou hast now in hand . 12. This Correction was in Love , Which , if both should so improve As ( if they had grace ) they may By true penitence , this day Our , endeavour to be Friends , To thine honor , so much tends , That , it would for both these Nations , Prove the best , of their Oblations . 13. Victories , do not belong To an Arm of Flesh , though strong . 'T is nor Policy nor Force , Ships , nor Troops of Men and Horse ; No , nor formal thanks and prayrs , That prevents Death or Despairs ; But , it is thy powerful Arm , That secures from fear and harm . 14. Therefore , praise , for all well done , I ascribe to thee alone : All , that men have brought to pass , Merits nothing but Disgrace ; And the best that we can do , Will but Ruine add thereto , If we keep our crooked wayes , Or , shall grudge at thy due praise . ARESOLVE , Occasioned by somewhat spoken concerning this Thank-Oblation , and this Authors other Writings . IT may be , many will these Hymns contemn , Because , they do not relish well to them . They likewise , may Inferiour Gods offend , Because in this Oblation , I intend No praise to them , but that , praise should be given To magnifie alone , my GOD in heaven . The first of these , I leave to their own mode , In offring up Oblations unto GOD : For , if well-pleasing unto him they be , They cannot be distasteful unto me ; And , whatsoever they of me shall say , I may be thereby profited some way . As for the latter , there is little need That , I , to their deserving should take heed : For , Prophets , Priests , and Poets of their own Enough they have , to make their merits known . These , to extoll their Patrons , can , and may Write more , and speak much more , then I dare say , Who , ( whatsoe'er advantage thence may flow , ) Can praise no man , for what I do not know . These , do as their Inspirers , them incline , And , I do , as I am inspir'd by mine . Moreover , it becomes not him , who sings A Song of praise unto the King of Kings , The Attributes of men to intermingle With his ( as to those works he worketh single ) That , were to follow their absurd example Who worship GOD and Baal within one Temple , Or Chroni●cle the Deeds by HERO's done , With Tales of Robin Hood , and Little John : For these respects , I know men Sober-witted Will me excuse for what may seem omitted ; And , as for those men , who so prudent are not , Whether , they me excuse , or no , I care not . To my Dearly Beloved Children . ABout twenty years now past though I had then temporal possessions , which I might probly have given and bequeathed , I composed and intended for your Legacy , A Soliloquie and Prayer which I had spread in Writing before GOD on your behalves ; and I believe it shall continue for ever in his view : But , there being but one Coppy thereof , both you and I were deprived of that Composure , when the Book for which I here suffer was taken out of my Closet . Therefore , being now likely to be so separted from you , how much soever it may concern our temporal or spiritual well-beings , that I may thenceforth perhaps never see you more . I send you this Sacrifice of Praise and Prayer , next following , to be instead of that which is lost ; for it contains in effect somewhat , ( as to the Petitionary part ) of that which was spread before GOD ( as aforesaid ) in a larger Scrol . Take it into your serious considerations , and lay it up among your Evidences ; For it will speak to your advantage , when I can speak no more for you ; when other men who can speak for you , will not ; when many perhaps will speak against you , and when you shall not be able to speak for your selves . GOD , sanctifie unto you this brief Memorandum , and you to his glory , that we may all meet together in him to our everlasting joy . Be obedient to your Mother , the enjoyment of whose Company , will more then recompence the loss of mine ; For GOD hath endowed her with so much maternal prudence and love , that by her counsel , ( if you despise it not ) your Posterity may be continued on the Earth untill Christ comes to gather together his Elect. Remember the counsel of your earthly Father , that the promise made by your heavenly Father to the Rechabites may be inlarged to you and your Posterities ; For , your and their personal obedience to GODs Covenant made with all Mankind in Christ Jesu , will be required ( according to that assisting Grace which he vouchsafeth ) toward the accomplishing of what I have prayed for concerning you . The blessing of GOD be with you , and Farewell . Your Affectionate Father , GEO : WITHER . Newgate Feb. 15. 1662. A Sacrifice of Praise and Prayer Offered unto Almighty GOD , by George Wither for his gracious Providence , in providing for Him , his Wife and Children , during his Imprisonment in the disgraceful Gaol of NEWGATE , and when left destitute of all ordinary means of subsistance , by being deprived both of his Estate and Liberty . LORD , though my Prayers and my Praises , be Unworthy to be offred up to thee , Thus ( as I am obliged ) I assay To adde unto thine honor what I may , By publishing both with my Tongue and Pen , Thy Loving kindness to the Sons of men ; Especially , in those particulars Whereby thy kindness unto me appears . Prais'd be thy blessed Name ; For , thou art speedy In shewing thy compassion to the needy ; And leav'st not any suffrer in despair Who , timely seeks thy help by faithful prayer , In patient waiting during his probation , For thy appointed hour of Salvation . Of this , thy never failing Clemency , Few men have had more evidence then I , Or in all straights , vouchsaf'd more seasnably A needfull , and a competent supply Yea though my suffrings have been great & many And , I , in flesh as sensible as any Of ev'ry grievance , thou hast by their length Improved so my patience and my strength , That , oft such grievances , were not alone As tollerable as if they were none : But , such as also , have my joy increast When I to other men seem'd most opprest . For , though I have compleated now , well-near , In weal and woe , the three and fiftieth year , And six Confinements , since I first begun That work , which I thought needful to be done ; Thou hast preserv'd me so , and me so armed , Against all changes , that , none me hath harmed : Which , unto me , a knowledge doth derive Of what thou art , that 's more then speculative ; That , what experimentally I speak , In other men , may more impression make , Then when I Notions only shall declare , That were infus'd into me , through the ear . And 't is not thy least Mercy , that of late , Thou dost their seeming Charity abate , Who , thought , they might thereby have tempted To wrong my conscience , and be false to thee , me By smothring , or Adulterating that Which , to Truths vindication may relate : For , when with needful food men bait their hook , The heedless hungry Fishes are soon took ; And , whether , we confide in thee or no , Whilst we have Oil and Meal , t is hard to know . Nor , I , nor mine , ( though rob'd of all ) ought lack , That 's needful for the belly , or the back . Thou hast my Wife and Children cloth'd and fed , When I could give them neither Cloth nor Bread ; And , from the earth , when ( in seed branch & root ) I seemed likely to be rooted out , My Withred sprouts , were then by the re-planted , Where they enjoy the nourishment they wanted : So timely , and in such a manner too , Was that vouchsafd , which thou were pleas'd to do , That , for it , my well-wishers prais'd thy Name ; And vext thereat , my envious foes become . Especially , in that place , where their worst And last despights , were manifested first ; For , there , and in their sight , by whom undone I seem'd to be , that mercy was begun . The Families , from whom I was design'd To take my Being , thou hast now twice joyn'd , And , their two Surnames , being joyn'd together , Denominate my Grandson , HUNT L' WITHER , Who , is in possibility to have Earth of his own , wherein to make his Grave ; And find a livelyhood whilst here he lives , If he , thy Bounty thankfully receives ; ( And , no whit farther shall be trusted in , Then that should be , which hath supplyed been Instead of what I lost ) For , Lord , in thee , ( And , not in what thou giv'st ) our trust should be . My only Daughter , when left portionless , And without any likely hopefulness Of more then thou didst on her Birthday give her ; Yea , when I was disabled to relieve her Thou didst , ev'n in that great necessity , Espouse into a Loving Family , Enobled , by a Pedigree , or Steem Which hath no blemish to disparage them ; Or , such wants , as may make the reputation Of Births , and Titles loose their estimation . Oh! let thy so uniting them together , Make them a mutual blessing to each other ; And , by considring with due thankfulness , What thou hast done for me in my distress , Make both my Children , and their whole descent With thy good pleasure , at all times content ; That , they to others , good example giving , By their woell-doing , joyn'd with right believing , ( And likewise heeding how thou dost proceed With such as in thy Fatherhood confide ) They never may despair , though quite berest Of what their earthly Fathers might have left : And , from my personal experiments , Let them , thereof to minde them , take some hints . For , when I by the world , seem'd quite forsaken And , she , with Lands and Goods , from me had taken My Liberty ; that , what then grieved me Might more imbitter'd , and redoubled be By what my Children suffred ; when , they had Mo means of comfort , and , thereby grew sad : Thou , didst for that a Remedy provide , By making them , a Bridegoome , and a Bride ( Whilst I imprison'd was within that place Which added to my Poverty disgrace ) To my good liking , and their own content , Without self-seeking , or dispargement . This providential mercy , did appear The more , in that , they likewise married were , ( As I awhile before , presag'd they should ) Without such portions , as I lately could Have given them , when thou didst me disable Not without cause . And , t is considerable That , they kept both their Weddings in the sight Of those , who them pursude with most despight ; Ev'n in my plundred house , and at that time , In which my wife , had not to welcome them A dish or spoon , but what a neighbour lent ; Or Meat , but what by thee was thither sent . Yea , thou hast , when the world deni'd us bread Me , and my Consort , competently fed . ( E're since , the world depriv'd us of our own ) By them , whose faces are to us unknown ; To evidence , that all thy Saints are friends , To him , who on thy providence depends , And to the utmost of his power persevers In just and conscientious endeavers : Yea , though corruption so in him prevaileth , That of his duty many waies he faileth . He , hoping those Experiments , to some May comfortable in like streights become , Thus , for their sakes , in words exprest they be ; For , without words , all things are known to thee . All this consider'd , I obliged am To take unto my self deserved shame , When , therewith I well heed , how oft , by sin , To thy Commands , I have rebellious been ; As also , that exceeding graciousness , Which thou to me vouchsafest ne'rtheless : And , it begets in me a greater fear , Then when thy Chastisements upon me are ; For , in correcting me , thou art more mild Then is a loving Father to his Child , When he not only chideth , but intreats , Kind language , mixing also , with his threats ; Whips him , then kisseth ; and sometimes to see Him weep doth shed as many tears as he . LORD , for those mercies , graciously afforded , ( Well meriting , by me to be recorded ) Accept this petty Sacrifice of Praise , And , make us truly thankful all our dayes , ( Not only in our verbal Thank-oblations But also , in our lives and conversations ) For , though we cannot golden gifts prefer Yet , we may offer Frankincense and Myrrh ; And from him , who hath not a Lamb to give , A Dove , thou with acceptance wilt receive . Vouchsafe us , in each temporary trial A constant progress with true self-denial ; Let not the Benefits we have received Be underpriz'd , because we were bereaved Of those externals , which we have enjoyed , For , their enjoyment might have us destroyed ; Yea , those whom thou mak'st poor thou lov'st as much As those , whom thou art pleased to inrich ; And , by thy Grace ▪ we may advantage make , Of whatsoever thou dost Give or Take . Keep me and mine from that Prevarication Which turns thy proffer'd grace , to Reprobation Incline us to desire , and to embrace All means of perseverance in thy Grace , And , never let the asking , or the granting , Of any necessary gift be wanting . Make us to shun and hate , all things , whereby We may offend thy awful Majesty ; Nor limiting thy Mercy , neither slandring Thy just Decrees , as causes of our wandring : For , no man to be wicked is inforc'd , Or left by thee , untill he leaves thee first ; Which ▪ all men will confess when from their eyes That scurffe is rub'd , which yet upon them lies . So knit us in one True love knot together By loving thee , and love to one another . That , we in all Temptations fast may stand And Sathan , nor the world dissolve that band ; For , where Love , in the heart keeps residence , Diff rence in Judgment , gives no more offence Then diff'ring faces , although more delight We take in those , who love and judge aright . When we offend , Correct us as our Father With all thy Temporary scourges , rather Then suffer sins , by sins to be corrected , ( Which is the greatest Plague can be inflicted ) And that , we faint not underneath thy Rod , With stripes , mix mercy still , my gracious GOD. I ask nor Honors , Liberty , nor Wealth , Nor temporary pleasures no nor health , Save , so far only , as hou knowst the use Of such things to thine honor may conduce With our eternal safety , and the Good Of those with whom we have a Brotherhood . And , hereto , I will add , but this Request ( Which comprehends all that can be exprest ) For me and mine . Oh! let it LORD , be plac●t , Where it may stand , as long as Time shall last , Within thy sight ; and though , nor I , nor they For whom I sue , can merit what I pray , Vouchsafe it , for his sake , in whom I have So much confided , as his Boone to crave . Let us Dear GOD , from whom our Children sprung , And , all their Off-spring , whether old or young , Who , from our loins have being , or shall come Into this world , untill the day of Doom , By him be so preserved , at whose cost Redeem'd we were , that no soul may be lost , Or be deprived of thy promises In passing thorow this lifes wilderness , Either by Adams fault , or our own guilt ; And then , of other things give what thou wilt : For , this I value more , then if I had Thy Grant , we should all Kings and Queens be made , Possessing in this life the largest measure Of temporary honors , wealth , and pleasure . For they are Baubles , in respect of that My sanctify'd Ambition aimeth at . They who obtain'd most of them , were but slaves Who dropt with Infamy into their Graves ; And oft less misery , to them befalls Who get their bread , by robling under stalls ; Or , in this world , advanced are no higher Then raking dirty rags out of the mire . Thus , I in brief , have summ'd up my Request ; Grant this , and let who pleaseth , take the rest . LORD , I know none , who , ever heretofore Did in this mode , thy Majesty implore ; And , from what he believes of thee it comes , That , so to do , thy servant now presumes . Forgive me if this absolute Petition Extends beyond the bound of my Commission ; For , nothing I intend , what ere I crave , Save , what thou art well-pleased I should have , Whose will I so prefer before mine own In all things ( if to me my heart is known ) That whatsoever may succeed thereon Now , or hereafter , Let thy will be done . My soul thou hast inclined to belive His Promises , who said , Ask , and receive ; Help then my unbelief : For , if the grant Of this Petition shall that fulness want Which is desir'd ; no want of Love in thee Occasions it , but , some defects in me ; And , that Obstruction , which thereon is cast , Shall by thy Love removed be at last . He that in Faith and Love can to this Prayer Say , for himself , Amen , shall nev'r dispaire ; For , it implies , he is no stranger to What , man may hope for , and what , GOD , will do . Newgate Feb. 1661. An Advertisement . WHen that private Poem , was taken from me ' for which I am now a Prisoner , many Printed Books , Writings , and Evidences , being my proper Goods , were therewith unlawfully taken away ; among which , there was a Manuscript in Verse , Intituled A Legacy to my Children , consisting ( as I remembember ) of about three or four sheets , wherein , that which is prayed for in the preceeding Meditation , in relation to my Posterity , was much inlarged with Expostulations and Petitions thereto pertinent . The Restoration thereof , I would acknowledge to be a favour , though it ought not in justice to be detained , because it contains nothing offensive to the Civil or Spiritual Government now Established : And this Advertisement is inserted , in hope , one of those to whose hand it may come , will be a means of restoring unto me both that Manuscript , and an Elegy , which was also therewith taken from me . I would likewise be thankful to the Restorer . Geo. Wither . At my House in the Savoy , June 1665. was this Advertisement added . NIL ULTRA . Being a Soliloquie , wherein this Author , sxpresseth the improbability of an offectual proceeding further , in his endeavours ( to prevent the Sins and Plegues increasing ) by ought offered to consideration . Psalm 1. 3. When Foundations are destroyed , what can the Righteous do ? I , At a Non-plus , am this day , And , know not what to think or say , Or , what part I am next to play : That , therefore , which I now expresse , Whether the mask I misse or hitt , To publick view I will commit , And , leave to GOD , the giving it In his own time , a good successe . 2. We neither love his Lawes nor him ; Those men , whose Deeds we did condemn We ( by our imitating them ) Have justified in all their works . They , who have seemed self-deniers , In their professing Truths , are liers , Like Lillies look , but scratch like Briars ; Talk , Christian-like , but , live like Turks . 3. Some , say I dote ; and that 't is so , I almost am perswaded too , When I consider what I do : For little less then doteth he , Who gives them bread , who look for Chaffe , Casts pearls to swine , who long for Draff , And strives to save them , who do laugh When sinking down to hell they be . 4. Examples we have had of old , And , daily , we fulfil'd behold , What , hath been oft , of late foretold ; Yet , more and more besotted grow . Nor Chastisements nor Mercy shew'd , Though oft withdrawn , and oft renew'd , Nor what hath for our sins ensude , Can make us heed the things we know . 5. What can by me , be said or done , To stop them , who still headlong run , To meet the mischieves coming on , And , which already are in view ? Since , men will neither see nor hear What is apparant ev'ry where , Nor have Grace , Courage , wit or fear , Who can prevent what may ensue ? 6. How can Good sequels be expected , Where Truth and Reason are neglected , And , gross crime , not alone suspected , But , acted also , with shame ? Where , men all prophanations dare , In all well-doing , cowards are , And seem to have nor sense , nor care , Either of good , or evil Fame ? 7. When , what relates to earth and heav'n , Seems of it proper use hereaven , ( And what for common use was given , Made , only , for th' Abusers sake ) VVhat humane wit , can save them from A sad inevitable doom , VVho , false to other men become , And , pitfalls , for themselves do make ? 8. VVhen first I did converse with men , They were exceeding wicked then ; But , now seem worse by five in ten : For , till of late , I never heard , That , such abominations were , So impudently acted , here VVithin this clime , as now they are By probable Reports , aver'd . 9. If , Justice executed were , If , we were what we would appear , In thought , in deeds and word , sincere , Oppressors , and self-seekers fewer ; It might be hoped , that , those few , VVho , to good principles are true , Might more successefully pursue VVhat would at last , our weal procure . 10. But , whilst we see , one crying sin Brings ev'ry day , another in , VVence new CorruptioNs do begin , VVhat , can the Righteous hope or do ; But , meekly wait on GOD. ( untill Her measure , wickedness doth fill ) Submitting all things to his will , And , adding their Amen , therero ? 11. VVhilst we each mangie humour claw Turn Grand Oppressions into Law , Stand nor of GOD , or men in awe , And , Truths , by Violence confute ; VVe bring but fewel to that fire , Or , breath to blow the flame still higher , VVherein , our hopes will quite expire ; And , Prudence then , is justly mute . 12. For , when GOD threatens Desolations , If men turn due humiliations , To Triumphs , and vain Recreations ; VVhat , can be justly then expected ? But , changing hopes into despairs , More Breaches , instead of Repairs , And , that our formal thanks and prayers , Should be offensive , and rejected ? 13. Oft , under Trust is hatched Treason , VVise to be thought , is to want Reason , Sincerity is out of season , Foundations , likewise , are orethrown : To speak the Truth is now a Crime To look for Justice , 't is no time , ( To be a Knave , the way to elime ) And , sin , almost full ripe is grown . 14. My witness , therefore , having born , ( Among men in the hope forlorn ) I 'le , all alone , sit down and mourn For that , which cannot be prevented . My Lot , I le meekly take with those , VVhom , GOD , shall unto that expose , VVhich may befall both Friends and Foes , And , therewith will remain contented . 15. This , now , is all that can be done ; That , therefore , I resolving on , VVill let the world awhile alone , And , GOD , therein , to work his wil ? ; I le only take that Ammunition , VVhich gives no just cause of suspicion , And ( without seeking their perdition ) Let filthy men , be filthy still . 16. Thus far forth , I have trod the Maze , VVithout offence to any cause , That 's justifide , by Righteous Laws ; But , now , no further can proceed : For , so , confusion here abounds , That , Good and Evil , it confounds , And whirles us in an endless Round , Which fruitless makes both word and deed . 17. For , they who dance upon the brinck Of Hell it self ( and fondly think They are secure because they wink ; ) Their open danger cannot see , But , are so vext to hear me tell Their Heaven borders upon Hell ; That , for my wishing of them well , They wish but little good to me . 18. Perhaps too , as the Round now goes , They who my good intents oppose , ( And are both mine and their own foes ) May seek to take my life away : If they so do ; when that is done , I shall beyond their reach be gone ; And he who all deeds looks upon , Will suddenly , their spight repay . 19. Yet , I shall make no such Request , As may not with their we●l consist : I , neither by the Sword , or Pest , Or Famine , wish aveng'd to be ; Or by ought else , which might destroy The life which here they do enjoy , ( Though they that Mercy mis-employ ; ) This , rather shall my Prayer be . 20. Let GOD confound their pride , their hate , And all their Plots annihilate Who shall design to practise that Which may to his dishonor tend . Let none of those endeavours thrive , Whereby ungodly men contrive ; How , they another may deprive Of his just freedom , Foe , or Friend . 21. This deprecation , doth not reach Mens Persons , or that Love impeach Which Christian Verity doth teach : For , to avenge themselves of wrong , That , giveth liberty to none ; But , to do good for evil done Required is of every one , To whom a Saintship doth belong . 22. The publick welfare I prefer Before mine own particular ; And this for truth I may aver , Who ever shall the same deny ; My Countrey , or my Sovereign Lord , Neither by actions , or by word , Or by my Pen , or by my Sword , To self-ends , injured have I. 23. I have not broke my Faith to those Who did a Trust in me repose , Whether they prov'd my Friends , or Foes , But , did with Loyalty submit To do , or suffer under them Who exercise ; the Power Supream , Which is at the dispose of him Who gives and takes , as he sees fit . 24. I never did for Love or Hate Act , or Design , to innovate The Government of Church or State , But did my duties in my place ; And when I fear'd , that for our sin An Anarchy was creeping in , Endeavor'd , when it did begin , How , to preserve the Common-Peace . 25. When Civil Powers were so divided , That then , both Fools and Wise men sided As Interest or Conscience guided , I sought not to inlarge the rent ; But , being called Aid to bring , To , ( and by ) them , whose counselling Had been Authoriz'd by the King , I , to perform my duty , went. 26. Retir'd from Court and City then , I liv'd among plain Countrymen , Employing otherwhile , the Pen , My private Musings to record ; Which , I had more desire to do , Then that which I was call'd unto , Till I was importuned so That , I at last , put on my Sword. 27. To do my best , forth arm'd I came , ( My Conscienee warranting the same ) And purpos'd nothing worthy blame , By unjust violence , or guile . For , in sincerity I thought A course we follow'd as we ought , Whereby , means might to pass be brought , Divided Friends to reconcile . But , so divisions them inrag'd , Who were in that Contest ingag'd , And , such ill consequents presag'd , That , I my Troop did soon disband ; And , hopeless I should ought assay Successful in a martial war , My Sword , and Arms quite flung away , And took my Pen again in hand . 29 Such new Adventures this began , That , I appeared to be than Betwixt the Fire and Frying-pan : For , such proceedings I espy'd ; That , they who wi●h the best intent Pursu'd the way in which they went ( And ill to neither party meant ) Found least respect , on either side . 30 To see what was done well ; or ill , I had just cause , against my will , To be there , an ey-witness still , Where grand Affairs transacted were . As well the Person as the Name I knew of most men , who by Fame Were said to merit praise or blame , And , who did best or worst appear . 31. Self-love , base Avarice , and Pride , I saw among themselves divide The publick Rights , on either side ; Their , Foes befriending out of season , Well-meaning Innocents destroying , Their power to favour guilt employing , And , often , to a self-destroying , Against their Friends committing Treason . 32. I saw both GOD and Man offended , Much finding fault , but little mended , Good Life and Piety pretended ; But , few whose words and works were one : They who most quarrell'd with each other , In evil so agreed together , That to repose a trust in either , I found but little cause , or none . 33. The worse men were , they seem'd the better , To serve their ends , and much the fitter To be inriched , and made greater . Him who did most indulge their sin , Or , to inflame their lust brought fuell , Or , were unto their foes most cruel , They kept about them as a Jewel ; And , such , their chief esteem did win . 34. Such as had neither Grace nor Wit , Such as Job judged men unfit Among his Shepherds dugs to sit , Even such as were , the other day , More worthy of contempt then those Who liv'd by picking Hips and Sloes ( With such food as on Hedges grows ) Were honor'd ; yea , few more then they . 35. These having scratcht up wealth and power In Court , and City , Town , and Tower , Did act as if our fatal hour Were hither making an advance : The mean while , men , here and abroad , At Hazzard plaid , in such a mode , ( At hide , at Even , and at Odd ) As if all things were rul'd by chance . 36. Thereby , my hazzards greater were Then those which I had cause to fear , When War most dreadful did appear : For , at what I before had done , One party only , took offence ; But , I have anger , ever since , All parties , who have lost the sence Of what they seem to carry on . 37. This , made me dip my Pen in Gall , Imparrially reproving all Without regard what might befal To me , whilst just things I intended : For , alwayes I regarded so Their honor , and their profit too ; With whom my Muses had to do , That , none have cause to be offended . 38. It ne'retheless , on me so brought Their hate , whose welfare I had sought , That of mine own , they left me nought Which might my likely want supply : No place whereon to rest my head , No certainty of daily bread , But , in my old Age to be fed And cloathed , by pure Charity . 39. In which strait , GOD provided so That , I yet live his work to do , Well pleased with my portion too ; Yea , more then when it larger seem'd ; For , what 's bereaved was but Lumber , Which did with many cares becumber , And , is not put into the number Of things which merit best esteem . 40. I therefore , whatsoe're befel , To high and low did plainly tell , ( Whether they took it ill or well ) Such things as I thought needful were ; And oft expressed with my Pen , What might minde me and other men , More heed to take , both how , and when , Unto our selves , we traytors are . 41. And , Time to come , when I am dead , Shall finde , there will be still much need , To tollerate one in my stead , That may persue what I begun . When God so pleaseth , let him come To do him service in my room , And , let the work he calls me from , Thrive better , then it yet hath done . 42. My time is almost wholly past ; And , thinking this may be the last , For a Nil Ultra here 't is plac't As having no more now to say : But if my life God longer spare , And shall my heart a new prepare , His pleasure further to declare , I 'le take this Bounder-stone away . 43. I sute it thus , unto these times , In that with which most fancies chimes , Expressing that in gingling Rimes , Which I suppose to be in season : Else little heed they give thereto ; Or , if plain Truths observe they do , Good meanings are mistaken so , That , safe it is not to speak Reason . 44. Things may result sometimes perchance , Ev'n from a trifling circumstance , Which will be helpful to advance Th' effecting of a Grand Design . Once e're Elisha would begin To speak , a Fidler was call'd in ; Of use , that seem'd then to have been For his Work ; so , may this for mine . Man proposeth , but GOD disposeth , and his will be done . God save the King. Here followeth a brief Defence in answer to private Objections , lately made against some passages in this Authors Writings , heretofore published . I Am informed by good friends , that among those Expressions which I thought pertinent to this Generation , I have here and there intermingled that which is distasteful to many who are not therein of my judgement , and that I have thereby lost their good esteem . This I finde experimentally so true , that not a few have neglected me , more to my grief in relation to them , and for their sakes then for mine own , who am not ignorant how I might both have prevented , and may yet repair that loss hereafter . Nevertheless , whatsoever I am , or may be thereby exposed unto , my resolution is , neither to desert those Principles whereto I conscientiously adhered , until I am convinced of errour ; nor to deceive any man by seeming that which I am not : For , I so abhor to comply for meer outward respects with any Person or Society , in things which I cannot yet believe are agreeable to Gods revealed will , and Christian prudence ; and so far also from recanting what I have conscientiously professed , though to my personal disadvantage , tho I lose all my seeming friends yet left , ( who have not Love enough to be peaceably minded toward their Brethren , who are conformable , according to their understanding , to the whole will of God revealed in his word ) that , as I will neither obstinately resist , or willfully neglect the means of better information ; so I will not recede from the Christian Liberty due to me , and all other men . Many suppose there is no salvation , save in that particular Church onely , whereof they are Members : But , I do believe , ( as to me it seems implied in the 87. Psalm ) that the City of GOD extends it self into every part of the world , even into Egypt , Phylistia , Tyre , Ethiopia , yea and into Babylon also ; and , that under every outward Form and Dispensation whatsoever , GOD hath an elect people , who are Citizens of Syon , though their particular Churches , which are , as it were , distinct Wards of that spiritual Corporation , may have many blemishes , ignorances , errours , and defilements for the present . In many things , we erre all : They , who know most , know but in part ; yea , the Apostles long time after they were chosen by our Savour , judged not aright of his Kingdom , nor were free from being ambitious of a Prelatical Preheminency , but subject to many misapprehensions ; and some of them seduced for a while , by an Anti-christian persecuting spirit ; as many persons in Congregational and National Churches have ever since been , and zealous without knowledge , in Practices and Principles tending to that Babylonish Confusion , which will universally come to an end e're long , though it hath lately begun to be reinforced . True Faith cannot be evidenced without good works ; which being imperfect in the best men , we have no such certain mark , whereby unfeigned Disciples may be known , as by their being loving to each other , and charitably affected toward all men ; yea , although they are our personal enemies : and this mark of distinguishment Christ himself hath left us . Upon these and such like considerations , I have been as wary as possibly I could , so to use my Christian Liberty at all times , and in all places , that I might not offend a weak believer : And , we have so many among us , who dissent from each other , that it makes the performance of that duty very difficultly inoffensive ; and hath put me to more trouble in the flesh , and occasioned more outward inconveniences , by infringing my just private liberty , then many of those sufferings put together , which are very grievous to other men . I dare , and do openly profess , ( tho some think it needless ) my belief and judgement , as oft as I see just occasion is given : yet I do not voluntarily separate my self from any Persons or Congregations , who are not apparently and maliciously wicked in their lives or doctrines ; but separate from their damnable errors and sins only , as much as I may : yea , my Conscience makes me afraid , I may justly offend by not complying in some things Indifferent , Civil or Divine , which are not repugnant to Gods revealed Word , though not thereby commanded . Where I know not any weak brother to be then present , whom I may thereby offend , ( and when I am thereto inclined for no carnal respects ) I can communicate with any professing belief in Christ Jesus , either in Humiliations , Thanksgivings , Breaking of Bread in commemoration of our Saviours Passion , or in Prayer , where nothing is so idolatrously or superstitiously injoyned or practised , that it derogates from the honour of God , or is contrary to the Canon of his Word , or may in my understanding seem destructive to true Piety or Morality : For , all other such deficiencies or superfluities , as we may suppose to be in the outward worship of God , do but exercise love , humility , or meekness , and I look upon them where such be , as I do upon mine own failings or performances . Whatsoever , where I come , which I find to be so done or spoken , that I may absolutely conform thereunto , without offence to God and mine own Conscience , I therein joyn ; and when ought is acted or said , whereto I cannot fully assent , I lift up my heart in secret prayer to God , beseeching him to vouchsafe pardon to me , and them for what is ignorantly offended in ; and to rectifie both mine and their erroneous understandings , who are then present : which practice of mine , if not worthy to be exemplar , I hope deserves , at least , a charitable censure . Most of the quarrellings amongst Christian Professours , are about matters of less moment then tithing mint , and annise , and occasion the neglect of weightier matters , as it will appear , if well heeded ; as also , that most of our Contests spring from self-love , though pretended for God ; and tend more to satisfie the ambition and covetousness of men , then to advance his honour or true piety . For , it is evident , that a superintendency over divine Rites , and the Worship of God , is unduly assumed by many , surreptitiously obtained , and magisterially usurped by som who had no lawful call thereunto ; yea , & viciously exercised ( in my judgment ) by all those who endeavour to compel men ( otherwise then by loving compellations ) either to the omission , or to the use of this or , that Discipline or Form of Prayer , against their Consciences . They who think no Oblation's accepted of God , but those set forms , or extemporary Devotions which they affect , are equally guilty of a superstitious errour : For , both the one and the other , may be compleat or defective , warrantably or unwarrantably exhibited , according as they are performed . Extempory Prayers are set forms to all who hear them , except to the speakers onely ; and perhaps also , to some of their knowledges , who speak them , the greatest part of those Prayers are set forms , and otherwhiles , in that regard the more acceptable : For , that form which the Spirit of God hath at any time dictated , never leaves it to be less effectual then it was at first , if it shall at any other time be offered up on the like occasion by those , who with the same devotion , and a true sense of what is wanting , shall faithfully pray for it in the same words . Some have affirmed in my hearing , that by declaring my private judgement touching matters controverted , I exposed my self to more sufferings , then were necessarily adventured : yet I do not so believe : For all that I have publickly affirmed in subjects of that nature , whereupon troubles ensued , was by me intended for Gods Glory and the common good , ( though turned to my personal detriment in appearance ) and they have hitherto , brought upon me no mischief , which God hath not converted to my spiritual advantage ; whereas , many of those things , which my Censurers practice and profess , have occasioned uncharitable separations , without any benefit to themselves or others ; yea disturbed their own and the publick tranquility , to the daily enlargeing of breaches , and to the hazzard of an universal irreconcileable Discord ; if the probable evil consequents , be not timely prevented , by an amicable declaring what we are perswaded in our own heart , as we finde just occasion ; and by leaving other men to the same Liberty , until they shall be as conscientiously inclined to believe otherwise : and then perhaps many will suspect their own discretion as much as now they do mine ; and make it to themselves questionable , who required their former actings or sufferings , at their hands . Let this be considered by all those Censurers of my open heartedness , to whom this shall come ; and let my friends be many or few , as God pleaseth ; for my trust is in him onely ; his honour is my chief aim ; from him I cannot conceal what I believe ; and from men ( as touching things relating to his Service , and the peace of his Church ) I will not ; nor dissemble my belief : as it should more appear , if it were always , as free for me to publish my thoughts , as I am to write them , at this present . It is for such respects , questioned by some , What I am as to Religion ? and of what Society I profess my self to be ; whereto I answer , that I profess my self a Catholick Christian : mistake me not ; I do not mean a Roman Catholick , which are terms contradictory to themselves , being so united ; because , the addition of Roman to Catholick , destroyes that Denomination . I am a member of that Church which is Universal , and of every particular Church in those places where I reside , so far forth onely ( and no further ) as it is a member of the Church Catholick , professing and practising in purity , the Faith , Doctrine , and Discipline thereof . I am not of Paul , or Apollo's , or Cephas , or any Society , but as they are of Christ Jesus ; whom I desire to know ( as Paul said he did ) not onely as he was in the flesh , but as he is spiritually to be known also ; and to avoid that dividing into parties , which from the Apostles time until this day , hath tended more to the nourishing of Discord , and confirming of Errors , then to edification in Piety and good life . I separate from no Church , adhering to the foundations of Christianity , not wilfully professing and practising what may be destructive thereto , though there be some defects or corruptions therein . I joyn not in doing or approving what is not approvable in my understanding , yet am as far from a disaffectionate separation on my part , as from separating my self from my self , or a limb from my body , though painful and loath some unto me , by a wound or some disease : For I shall cherish it until it so corrupts and gangreens , that it may destroy my whole body ; and then I shall willingly be rid of it . In like manner , waiting in love upon Gods good pleasure toward me and every weak member of Christs mystical Body , I will endeavour to preserve my self and them in unity , and leave the anathamizing or judging others to him onely , whose members they are , or pretend to be . The Title of a Catholick Christian aforementioned , I affect not out of singularity , but admit of it by way of distinction onely , to answer their questionings , who ask of what Religion , or of what Church I am : And I profess an absolute adherence to the Catholick Church onely , because that onely is infallible , and the Sanctuary of God upon earth , wherein his Mystcries are preserved in purity ; and wherein I may have assurance of salvation by continuing therein . I wave the confining my belief or practice to any one National or Congregational Society of Christians , not out of a factious inclination , or petulent disesteem of any : But having a desire to be instrumental in uniting men dissenting in judgement both unto God , and to each other in Love , I conceive that endeavour would be suspected of partiality , and not so effectually prosecuted , if I made my self a party with any one Fraternity more then with another : some of whom strain at a Gnat , and swallow a Cammel ; or so presume of their infallibility , that they exclude all as Reprobates , who dissent from them in Doctrine or Discipline ; having also more affection for those who are zealous in the Opinions and Formalities which they approve , ( though held in unrighteousness for carnal ends ) then they have for them , who are conscientious professours of the Truth in godliness and sincerity , according to their measure of faith and understanding , if they dissent from them but in a Crotchet . For these and such like respects I suffer not my self to be bound up with any Congregation , as aforesaid ) but so far as the Christian Liberty , and the exercise of Charity towards all men may be preserved : as also the Peace and Credit of all Societies professing Jesus Christ , so far forth as it ought to be ; for though he may have somewhat to alleadge against them , ( as he had against the seven Churches in Asia , to whom he wrote by St. John ) they are all in some degree Nurses of Piety and good manners : And many thousands have had , and have in them , initiations into that which is best approvable . Our National Church was my first Nurse , and I confess with thankfulness , I from thence first drew nourishments , strengthening me towards eternal life ; that I had there also , dry Nurses , some of which fed me wholesomely , and some to the endangering my being poisoned or starved . But I have but one Spiritual Mother , which is the Catholick Church aforementioned . There are other Objections whispered ; some against my late published Meditations upon the Lords Prayer ; some against my Tract , entitled , The Persecution of the Tongue among Brethren , a manuscript not yet published ; and some others , which I shall by Gods assistance , vindicate as soon as I have leasure , from misapprehensions ; and make it evident , there are many who have heretofore complained of severity in those , by whom they were persecuted for their Consciences , who would quickly ( had they power answerable to their will improve it into that Persecution , which is the Mark of the BEAST in the forehead , or in the hand . But , having for just cause , added this here , I will conclude for the present , heartily beseeching GOD , that his Peace may be established and continued among his Saints for ever . FINIS .