A52399	----	The Duke of Norfolk's order about the habit the ladies are to be in that attend the Queen at her Coronation Norfolk, Henry Howard, Duke of, 1655-1701. 1685 Approx. 4 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 1 1-bit group-IV TIFF page image. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2005-03 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A52399 Wing N1232 ESTC R17510 11862243 ocm 11862243 50037 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A52399) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 50037) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 503:4) The Duke of Norfolk's order about the habit the ladies are to be in that attend the Queen at her Coronation Norfolk, Henry Howard, Duke of, 1655-1701. 1 sheet ([1] p.) Printed by Nat. Thompson ..., [London] : 1685. Caption title. Reproduction of original in: Henry E. Huntington Library and Art Gallery. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. Gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. EEBO-TCP is a partnership between the Universities of Michigan and Oxford and the publisher ProQuest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by ProQuest via their Early English Books Online (EEBO) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). The general aim of EEBO-TCP is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic English-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in EEBO. EEBO-TCP aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the Text Encoding Initiative (http://www.tei-c.org). The EEBO-TCP project was divided into two phases. The 25,363 texts created during Phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 January 2015. Anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source. Users should be aware of the process of creating the TCP texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data. Text selection was based on the New Cambridge Bibliography of English Literature (NCBEL). If an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in NCBEL, then their works are eligible for inclusion. Selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. In general, first editions of a works in English were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably Latin and Welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so. Image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. Quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in Oxford and Michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet QA standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. After proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. Any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor. The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines. Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Mary, -- of Modena, Queen, consort of James II, King of England, 1658-1718 -- Coronation. James -- II, -- King of England, 1633-1701 -- Coronation. Nobility -- Great Britain -- Costume -- Early works to 1800. Costume -- Great Britain -- 17th century. Broadsides -- England -- London -- 17th century 2004-09 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2004-09 Aptara Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2004-10 Andrew Kuster Sampled and proofread 2004-10 Andrew Kuster Text and markup reviewed and edited 2005-01 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion The Duke of NORFOLK'S Order about the Habit the Ladies are to be in that attend the Queen at her Coronation . His Majesty having been pleas'd to Command the Attendance of the Peeresses of England upon the Queen Consort at her Coronation ; And it being for the Honour of so great a Solemnity , that They all be in the same Habit , with Distinction's of the Ranks of those that Wear them : I have , by His Majesties Command , Order'd a particular Direction to be Printed , whereby every one may know in what manner They ought to appear . THE Train of a BARONESS , a Yard on the Ground , the Ermin Cape to be Poudred with Two Bars , the long Mantle to be Edg'd round with Ermin Un-poudred an Inch broad , the Sur-coat to be of Crimson Velvet , as well as the Mantle , made straight-Body'd , and Clasp'd before , Edg'd with Ermin Two Inches broad , and Scallop'd down the sides from below the Girdle , with a Train a little shorter than the long Robe , Sleeves of Velvet ( Scallop'd , Edg'd with Ermin , and Fringe of Gold or Silver , ) to reach a little below the Shoulder , the Cap to reach only a little above the Rim of the Coronet . A VISCOUNTESS to have her Train a Yard and a Quarter upon the Ground , the Cape Poudred with Two Rows and a half , the long Mantle to be Edg'd with Two Inches of Ermin , the Sur-coat to be of Crimson Velvet as well as the Mantle , and straight to the Body , Clasp'd before , Edg'd with Ermin Two Inches broad , and Scallop'd down the sides , with a Train something shorter than the Mantle , Sleeves of Velvet ( Scallop'd , Edg'd with Ermin , and Fringe of Gold or Silver , ) to reach a little below the Shoulder , the Cap to reach a little above the Rim of the Coronet . A COUNTES'S Train to be a Yard and half upon the Ground , the Cape Poudred with Three Rows of Ermin , the Mantle Edg'd with Three Inches of Ermin , the Sur-coat to be of Crimson Velvet , close Body'd , Clasped before , Edg'd with Ermin Two Inches broad , and Scallop'd down the Sides , with a Train half a Yard , Velvet Sleeves , Scallop'd and Edg'd with Ermin , and Fringe of Gold or Silver , the Cap to reach only a little above the Rim of the Coronet . A MARCHIONESS , to have her Train a Yard and Three Quarters upon the ground ; the Cape Poudred with Three Rows and a half of Ermin , the Mantle Edg'd with Four Inches of Ermin , the Sur-coat to be of Crimson Velvet , close Body'd , Clasp'd before , Edg'd with Ermin Two Inches broad , Scallop'd down the Sides , with a Train about half a Yard , Velvet Sleeves , ( Scallop'd and Edg'd with Ermin , and Fringe of Gold or Silver ) to reach a little below the Shoulder , the Cap to reach only a little above the Rim of the Coronet . A DUTCHESS'S Train to be Two Yards upon the Ground , the Cape Poudred with Four Rows of Ermin , the Mantle Edg'd with Five Inches of Ermin , the Sur-coat to be of Crimson Velvet as well as the Mantle , close Body'd , Clasped before , Edg'd with Ermin Two Inches broad , and Scallop'd down the sides , with a Train about half a Yard , Velvet Sleeves Edg'd with Ermin , Scallop'd and Fring'd with Gold or Silver , to reach a little below the Shoulder , the Cap only to reach a little above the Rim of the Coronet . The Petticoats to be of Cloath of Silver , or any other White Stuff , either Lac'd or Embroider'd , according to every ones Fancy . The Mantles to hang back , being fast'ned on each Shoulder with Cords of Silver or Gold suitable to their Fringe , with a Tassel of the same , hanging one of each side down to the Wast . The Sur-coats to open before , that the Petticoats may appear . NORFOLK and MARSHALL . Printed by Nat. Thompson at the Entrance into Old-Spring-Garden near Charing-Cross , 1685. 
A83922	----	Die Mercurii 9. Maii, 1660. Upon report this day made to the House from the Committee of Priviledges, it is ordered by the Lords in Parliament assembled, that according to the ancient and undoubted rights of peeridge, no Lord of Parliament, or peer of this realm be or shall be charged, or set at any arms whatsoever, ... England and Wales. Parliament. House of Lords. This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A83922 of text R211895 in the English Short Title Catalog (Thomason 669.f.25[17]). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 1 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 1 1-bit group-IV TIFF page image. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2017 A83922 Wing E2865 Thomason 669.f.25[17] ESTC R211895 99870568 99870568 163822 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A83922) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 163822) Images scanned from microfilm: (Thomason Tracts ; 247:669f25[17]) Die Mercurii 9. Maii, 1660. Upon report this day made to the House from the Committee of Priviledges, it is ordered by the Lords in Parliament assembled, that according to the ancient and undoubted rights of peeridge, no Lord of Parliament, or peer of this realm be or shall be charged, or set at any arms whatsoever, ... England and Wales. Parliament. House of Lords. 1 sheet ([1] p.) Printed by John Macock, and Francis Tyton, Printers to the House of Lords, London : 1660. Title from caption and opening lines of text. "No peer can be charged or set at arms, on any act for trained bands, militia, &c. Their assistants and the attendants of the house are exempt." -- Cf. Steele. Order to print dated: Die Mercurii 9. Maii, 1660. Signed: Jo. Browne, Cleric. Parliamentorum. Reproduction of the original in the British Library. eng England and Wales. -- Parliament. -- House of Lords -- Privileges and immunities -- Early works to 1800. Nobility -- Great Britain -- Early works to 1800. Privileges and immunities -- Great Britain -- Early works to 1800. Great Britain -- Politics and government -- 1660-1688 -- Early works to 1800. A83922 R211895 (Thomason 669.f.25[17]). civilwar no Die Mercurii 9. Maii, 1660. Upon report this day made to the house from the committee of priviledges, it is ordered by the Lords in Parliame England and Wales. Parliament. 1660 171 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 A This text has no known defects that were recorded as gap elements at the time of transcription. 2007-09 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2007-10 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2007-11 Emma (Leeson) Huber Sampled and proofread 2007-11 Emma (Leeson) Huber Text and markup reviewed and edited 2008-02 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion HONI SOIT QVI MAL Y PENSE DIVE ET MON DROIT British royal blazon or coat of arms Die Mercurii 9. Maii , 1660. UPon Report this day made to the House from the Committee of Priviledges , It is Ordered by the Lords in Parliament Assembled , That according to the Ancient and Vndoubted Rights of Peeridge , no Lord of Parliament , or Peer of this Realm , be or shall be charged , or set at any Arms whatsoever , upon any Act for the Trained Bands , Militia , or otherwise ; And that their Lordships Assistants , and Attendants of the said House , be , and are hereby exempted In , and From the said Charge accordingly . Die Mercurii 9. Maii , 1660. ORdered by the Lords in Parliament Assembled , That this Order be forthwith Printed and Published . JO . BROWNE . Cleric . Parliamentorum . London , Printed by John Macock , and Francis Tyton , Printers to the House of Lords , 1660. 
A88627	----	The loyal addresse of the gentry of Gloucestershire. To the Kings most Excellent Majesty. This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A88627 of text R212454 in the English Short Title Catalog (Thomason 669.f.25[48]). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 7 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 1 1-bit group-IV TIFF page image. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2017 A88627 Wing L3336 Thomason 669.f.25[48] ESTC R212443 ESTC R212454 99871065 99871065 163853 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A88627) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 163853) Images scanned from microfilm: (Thomason Tracts ; 247:669f25[48]) The loyal addresse of the gentry of Gloucestershire. To the Kings most Excellent Majesty. Herbert of Cherbury, Edward Herbert, Baron, ca. 1633-1678. 1 sheet ([1] p.) Printed for Humphrey Tuckey, at the black-spread Eagle in Fleet-street, over against St. Dunstans Church, London : 1660. Signed: Lord Herbert [and 88 others]. Annotation on Thomason copy: "June 21". Reproduction of the original in the British Library. eng Charles -- II, -- King of England, 1630-1685 -- Early works to 1800. Nobility -- England -- Gloucestershire -- Early works to 1800. Great Britain -- History -- Charles II, 1660-1685 -- Early works to 1800. A88627 R212454 (Thomason 669.f.25[48]). civilwar no The loyal addresse of the gentry of Gloucestershire. To the Kings most Excellent Majesty. Herbert of Cherbury, Edward Herbert, Baron 1660 678 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 A This text has no known defects that were recorded as gap elements at the time of transcription. 2007-07 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2007-08 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2007-09 Elspeth Healey Sampled and proofread 2007-09 Elspeth Healey Text and markup reviewed and edited 2008-02 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion THE LOYAL ADDRESSE Of the Gentry of Gloucestershire . TO THE Kings most Excellent Majesty . Most Gracious Soveraign , WE Your Majesties most humble and loyal Subjects of Your County of Gloucester , who neither to ease our selves of the insupportable burthens and oppressions we lay under , nor to gain favour with our Oppressors , could ever be brought to flatter with any Address whatsoever , any usurped power which hath been over us , Do now think our selves concern'd in duty to express our great joy , and congratulation for Your Majesties being restored to Your Just Hereditary Right , and Kingly power , without which , no means on Earth could possibly have rendered any Settlement to these Your Kingdoms , or have quieted the anxious thoughts of Your people in relation both to Church and State : But now that it hath pleased the Divine Providence to place Your Sacred Majesty at the Helme to steer both . We do with all due obedience in all things acquiesce in Your Royal Prudence , and do declare , That as we have alwayes shewed our dislike to all unjust Powers , so we will stand by Your Majesty with our lives and fortunes against all the world , for the preservation of Your Sacred Person and Authority . Lord Herbert . Lord Campden . Lord Berkeley . Lord Tracy . Sir Baynham Throckmorton Baronet . Sir William Hickes Baronet . Sir Richard Ashfield Baronet . Sir William Ducy Baronet . Sir Hugh Middleton Baronet . Sir Robert Poyntez , Knight of the Bath . Sir John Seymour . Sir Henry Frederick Thynne . Sir William Catchmay . Sir Baynham Throckmorton . Sir Nicholas Throckmorton . Matthew Hale Esqs ; Kts. of the Shire . Edward Stephens Henry Capel Esq ; Thomas Overbury Esq ; Henry Hall Esq ; Richard Stephens Esq ; Thomas Estcourt Esq ; John Hall Esq ; Thomas Shyne Esq ; William Oldsworth Esq ; David Williams Esq ; Richard Sackvile Esq ; Richard Dowdswell Esq ; Thomas Veale senior , Esq ; Nicholas Veale Esq ; Thomas Veale junior , Esq ; John Stephens Esq ; Thomas Roberts Esq ; Philip Langley Esq ; John Freeman Esq ; William Stratford Esq ; John Fettiplace Esq ; John How Esq ; John Grubbam How Esq ; Gabriel Lowe Esq ; Thomas Masters Esq ; John Chamberlain Esq ; Thomas Chamberlain Esq ; Thomas Slaughter Esq ; Thomas Hodges Esq ; Robert Fielding Esq ; Edward Chamberlain Esq ; John Wintour Esq ; John Cuddrington Esq ; Nicholas Cuddrington Esq ; Edward Cook Esq ; Robert Oldsworth Esq ; Richard Cook Esq ; Richard Wakeman Esq ; Richard Cockes Esq ; Edward Smith Esq ; Edward Bathurst Esq ; Robert Baleson Esq ; Giles Baleson Esq ; Edward Rich Esq ; Andrew Baker Esq ; William Bourchier Esq ; Walter Rawleigh Esq ; Thomas James Esq ; Thomas Brown Esq ; Edward Stephens Esq ; Samuel Codrington Esq ; John Rich Esq ; Henry Pool Esq ; Robert Oldsworth Esq ; John Newton Esq ; Anthony Sambach Esq ; Edward Fust Esq ; William Cook Esq ; Miles Cook Esq ; William Roper Esq ; Daniel Colchester Esq ; Thomas Howe Esq ; Lawrence Bathurst Esq ; Thomas Seymour Esq ; Henry Browne Esq ; William Cope Esq ; Michael Rutter Esq ; Thomas Chester Esq ; Henry Guise Esq ; Henry Spiller Esq ; John Powel Esq ; Thomas Chamborlain Esq ; William Battison Esq ; This Address was presented to his Majesty the 19th . day of June , by the hand of the Right Honourable , the Lord Herbert , accompanied by very many persons of honour and quality of the aforesaid County , to whom His Majesty in a very gracious manner was pleased to express His acceptance of this their humble , and loyal Address . London , Printed for Humphrey Tuckey , at the black-spread Eaglein Fleet-street , over against St. Dunstans Church . 1660. 
A45195	----	The honours of the Lords spiritual asserted, and their priviledges to vote in capital cases in Parliament maintained by reason and precedents collected out of the records of the Tower, and the journals of the House of Lords. Hunt, Thomas, 1627?-1688. 1679 Approx. 135 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 30 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2008-09 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A45195 Wing H3755 ESTC R24392 08164011 ocm 08164011 40986 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A45195) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 40986) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 1231:15) The honours of the Lords spiritual asserted, and their priviledges to vote in capital cases in Parliament maintained by reason and precedents collected out of the records of the Tower, and the journals of the House of Lords. Hunt, Thomas, 1627?-1688. [2], 32 p. Printed by Tho. Braddyll and are to be sold by Robert Clavel, London : 1679. Attributed by Wing to Thomas Hunt. Reproduction of original in the Huntington Library. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. Gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. EEBO-TCP is a partnership between the Universities of Michigan and Oxford and the publisher ProQuest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by ProQuest via their Early English Books Online (EEBO) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). The general aim of EEBO-TCP is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic English-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in EEBO. EEBO-TCP aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the Text Encoding Initiative (http://www.tei-c.org). The EEBO-TCP project was divided into two phases. The 25,363 texts created during Phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 January 2015. Anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source. Users should be aware of the process of creating the TCP texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data. Text selection was based on the New Cambridge Bibliography of English Literature (NCBEL). If an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in NCBEL, then their works are eligible for inclusion. Selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. In general, first editions of a works in English were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably Latin and Welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so. Image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. Quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in Oxford and Michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet QA standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. After proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. Any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor. The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines. Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng England and Wales. -- Parliament. -- House of Lords. Nobility -- Great Britain. 2006-12 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2006-12 Aptara Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2007-02 Robyn Anspach Sampled and proofread 2007-02 Robyn Anspach Text and markup reviewed and edited 2008-02 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion THE HONOURS OF THE Lords Spiritual Asserted : And THEIR PRIVILEDGES To VOTE in CAPITAL CASES IN PARLIAMENT Maintained by Reason and Precedents . Collected out of the RECORDS of the TOWER And the Journals of the HOUSE of LORDS . Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem , they shall prosper that love thee , Peace be within thy Walls , and prosperity within thy Palaces . Psal . 122. ver . 6 , 7. LONDON , Printed by Tho. Braddyll , and are to be Sold by Robert Clavel at the Peacock in St. Pauls Church-yard . 1679. TO THE READER . T IS not unknown to any in our English Israel , that there are yet here amongst us some Remainders of the Men of 42. and that the Disease it self sticks as close to Them , and particularly to some eminent Parts of the Nation where they skul , and for the present where they make their Refuge ( for in the Countries they are more easily discovered ) as the Leprosie did under the Law to the very Walls of the House ; and it seems to be as hardly removed as that Levitical Distemper , which some Naturalists and Physitians say cannot be done but only by Blood , and that is the thing which their fingers itch to be at again , Witness their late Rebellious Commotions in Scotland , which had they taken effect , there would not have been wanting these who would have justified them : Nay , I speak what I know , and have heard , did excuse them , as a poor People Opprest ; and You know Oppression makes a Wise man Mad , especially at this time of the year , the Season being a little Hot. I must confess I am no stranger to the Men or their ways , having been for many Years last past , a strict Observer of them , though I thank God I have always , and do still from my Heart , Abhor and Detest any Confarreation with them , or any the least Approbation of their Actings or Principles ; for I have discovered so much of ill Nature , Censoriousness , Covetuousness , Self-seeking , and want of Charity in this sort of Men , that it did always give me a great suspition that their Cause was Evil ; especially reflecting upon the Means which they made use of to carry on their pretended Reformation , ( viz. ) The throwing down of Episcopacy , a Government of Gods Church , as Antient in this Nation as Christianity it self ; the takeing away , and Abolishing the best of Liturgies either Ancient or Modern , a justified taking up of Arms against their Native Soveraign , the Lords Annointed , to whom , and to whose Ancestors they and their Fore-fathers had Sworn Allegiance : the Plundering and Devesting of the Kings most faithfull Subjects of their Goods , Estates and for their dutiful adherence to the best of Kings who ever raign'd in this our Isle . And lastly the embrewing their Violent , Rebellious , and Wicked hands in His most Sacred Blood ; a course which the Moral Heathen would Blash to take , to save his Country ready to be Lost and Ruined , and yet these men in a Bad Cause to pretend Conscience and Religion , which hereto fore Conquered the Heathen World , not by resisting though they were able and wanted not Numbers to do it , but by their Sufferings ; for these Men I say to pretend Conscience and Religion , Clament Melicerta Perisse Frontem de rebus . These are the Men I Confess against whom the following Discourse is aim'd : For I very well know that it lies not in the Power or Wit of these , though they gladly would and do flatter themselves perhaps in this their Folly that they may be able to Cajole any Persons of Loyal Hearts or Principles , to take part with , or appear against the Bishops in the present Controversie : No , Gentlemen believe it , you smell too strong , and you are too well known , and I can never believe the contrary , till I see you perswade them to carry in once more their Plate to Guild-Hall , for the Carrying on Your Vnholy Cause ; or to shut up their Shops , as you know who did heretofore and go with you to Releive Glocester . Atqui parvas spes habet Troja si tales habet . And so I Refer the Reader to the Perusal of the Book . THE HONOURS AND RIGHTS OF THE CLERGY ASSERTED : And PRIVILEDGES of the BISHOPS To VOTE in Capital CASES in Parliament VINDICATED , &c. CHAP. I. The Honour of the Priesthood asserted by the Law of Nature and Levitical Law ; the Immumunities thereof under Primitive Christianity . The returns of Gratitude to God for the Blessings and Labours of the Ministers thereof in the Reformation of the Church , in the last and present Age wherein we Live ; together with some close Reflections thereupon . REligion a thing so Excellent , ( that to be careless in it , or neglectful of it , is accounted a great disreputation and shame to any Party or Person ) hath ever had since there were Professors of it , and that is so long as there have been men in the World , a select number of Persons , who have been the Ministers of it . These men dureing the first times , and the Administration of the Law of Nature , were the First Born , and they both Princes and Priests too ; so that the Administration of Justice , and the Performance of Religious Worship we find then to have been linked together in one and the same Person , Adam , Seth , Enoch , and Noah , and other the Antediluvian Patriarchs were in their Order and Succession both Kings and Priests also ; as any person may be satisfied , if he will peruse those Writers of the Jewish Antiquities Philo and Josephus : Afterwards , when the Law was given by positive Precepts to the Sons of men , one of the Twelve Tribes ( viz. ) that of Levi had the Priesthood annexed to it , together with other great Immunities , Honours and Priviledges , and in the division of the Land of Canaan ( if Mr. Seldens Authority may sway any , Rev. Hist . Tithes , c. 2. ) they of Levi had near three times the Annual Revenue of the largest among them , they had their Places and Voices in their Sanhedrims and Councils : yea and Cognizance of Capital Causes also , as we may find largely proved by the Learned Spelman in his History of Sacriledge ; What sense the very Heathens themselves had of the Honours of their Priesthood , it would be very tedious to relate . The Priesthood was not esteemed any shame to him that bore the Scepter and wore the Crown . In Egypt as Sr. John Marsham in his Cronic . Canon , well observes those Ancient Kings after the Flood Thoth , or Mercurius , Tosorthrus , or Aesculapius , Suphis the Builder of the greatest of the Pyramids were Kings and Divines too . See him at large , c. ad Sec. 4. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . Nay in the first Ages of the World , the Legislative and Executive Power went along with the Priesthood , Melchizedeck , Abraham , and Jacob after the Flood , as well as the Antediluvian Patriarchs were as well Executors as makers of Laws . Let us peruse the Holy Records , and we find David a King and a Prophet , his Son Solomon the wisest of mortal men , stileing himself by the name of the Preacher and valuing himself more upon that name , then upon the score of his other Royal Titles ; and in the fullness of time Jesus Christ himself the King of Kings , the Eternal Son of God and Original of all Power thought it not below him telling us expresly Luke 4. 18. That he was sent into the World on no other end than to Preach the Gospel . True it is , his Kingdom was not of this World , and he never went about to dipossess either the Roman or Jewish Governours in Judaea ; neither did his Disciples ever go about to do any thing like it ; yet when the Empire became Christians , the Prudent Piety of the first and most Christian Emperors for the better Encouragement of Religion and Learning , conferred large Immunities and Exemptions upon Church-men , freeing them from Subsidies , Impositions , and sundry services wherewith other of their Subjects were burdened * Eusebius and Zozomen , record several Priviledges granted by Constantine , That those who Minister in Holy Religion be wholly free and exempt from all publick Burthens : And some have very well observed , that during the continuance of the gift of Tongues , extraordinary Learning , and other Miraculous effusions of Gods Holy Spirit upon the Primitive Church , there were no need of the Piety and Charity which subsequent Christian Emperors bestowed upon the Church , the Apostles had no need to study for their Preaching , and therefore had leisure enough to fish and make Tents for a livelihood , whereas ours are forced to pore upon Books , to Meditate , Write , and all hardly sufficient to search out the deep Mysteries which cost Them no Pains , the Spirit supplying the place of all . Therefore to make amends for all these extraordinary qualifications , and abundant measure of Spiritual Graces wherewith they were furnished above us , it hath pleased the Lord of the Harvest in these latter days to raise up Christian Magistrates to assist and encourage his Labourers , and appoint them a more setled and plentifull allowance ; yea and honour also , and power together with it , for that Wisdom without these is commonly contemned . Who ever was chosen a Magistrate in our Neighbour State of Holland , or here at home ? who had not Riches , and therefore Honour to support them , Wisdom in the esteem of the Vulgar is always thought to be accompanied with Riches and Power : So that the pretences of those men who for a Cloak to their Innovations and Sacriledges , vainly vaunt that all things should be brought back to the Primitive Purity , and the Clergy also to the Apostles Poverty , seem to argue thus much that they are no farther true Gospel Ministers , and the Successors of the Apostles than they are able to work Miracles , and that they though not enabled to it by any Education may be required to work in any of those Callings of which the Apostles were , whose Successors they pretend to be . We read in Lud. Vives in his Commentary upon St. Aust . de Civitate Dei , That the Priests of Ceres [ no other than the Mendicants amongst them of Rome ] were to renounce the World and Riches and Honour too ; and therefore that on the day of their Initiation they were to put on a Coat which they never left off till such time as it was so ragged that it would no longer hang to their backs ; certainly if Spiritual Persons were left to some mens allowance , this would be their Portion from them to be clad with Poverty , Contempt , and Rags , and their Callings as well as their Necessities would constrain them to Fast and Pray . I know some men ( particularly Luther ) amongst our Reformers have sleighted Honours , and that Portion due to their Callings , out of sincere Principles and a good meaning , who have yet lived to Repent their Error , though not able to redress it , when they have seen how much the Church has thereby suffered , and Religion been damnified , Witness Luther Epist . p. 131. Ego per meo stipendio annuo tantum novem antiquas Sexagenas habeo , praeter has ne obolus quidem mihi ; aut fratribus è Civitate accedit . A great and noble reward for such matchless deserts , and if so happy an Instrument of Europes Reformation , so valiant a Champion , who singly opposed the United Power of Rome and Hell , What may the Clergy of our days expect ? viz. To be devested of their Revenues , Honours and Immunities , because they are the Successors of their Forefathers the Bishops and Reformers in Queen Marys days , some of the Principal whereof were publickly Burnt as Martyrs for that Religion which ( God be thanked ) maugre the Monstrous ingratitude of some , we yet through the Blessing of God enjoy , by the Pains and Labours of their Worthy Successors . Who are the Persons who have to the Eternal Shame and Infamy of Rome laid open the Vileness , Wickedness , and Immorality as well as the false Doctrines , Idolatries and Superstitions of that Church ? Who are they who have been the Watchmen upon the Wall , that have ever since the Reformation Beaten and Foiled them in their Assaults upon our Church ? Was not the Walls thereof Watered , and as it were Cemented with the Blood of Cranmer , Latimer , Ridley , Hooper , and others ; the Supestructure raised by Jewel , Reynolds and others , Sed me reprimo . And yet now those days through Mercy are over , Must their Successors still be wounded by the hands of their pretended Friends , and receive such hard measure from their Pretended Well-wishers ? This strikes to the very Heart . Scilicet , Hoc Ithacus velit & magno Mercentur Atridae . CHAP. II. The Clergy under the Law and Gospel also , have ingaged in Secular Causes , and the State very happy in this their Administration in the Primitive times of the Gospel proved from the Examples of St. Ambrose , St. Austine , &c. WE all know it was a Political Maxim mentioned by Josephus as derived from Moses , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . Philo. in vit . Mos . The King must ever take the advice of the Priest , Moses himself was a Priest as well as a Ruler ; and he appointed Priests dureing the Levitical Administration to be Overseers of all things , Judges of Controversies , and Punishment of Malefactors , Joseph . lib. 2. cont . App. who saw the precept reduced to practice , tells us the thing in fact was so . Who hath not heard that Ely and Samuel the Lords Priests were at the same time Civil Judges in Israel . Chytraeus makes three Consistories amongst the Jews , of all which the Priests were the Principal and Essential Members : ( 1. ) A Triumvirat in every City wherein many matters and lighter Trespasses was decided ; these Grotius calls Pedaneos Judices . ( 2 ) The little Sanhedrim Consisting of 23 , wherein Capital Causes were determined in the Gate of every City . ( 3. ) The Council of State or grand Senate of 70 Elders , which some make to consist of 71 , taking in Moses ; others in 72. Six out of each Tribe , the High Priest being commonly of the Number . Now that the Priests and Levites were part of this great Sanhedrim , Causabon will bear me out ; who makes it appear out of their best Authors , quod hujus Concilii ea fuit institutio ut si fieri possit e Solis Levitis & Sacerdotibus constaret , That as near as might be , the endeavour was it might consist only of Priests and Levites ; whence Josephus and Philo oftentimes under the Title of Priests understand the Sanhedrim . Come we down to David whose Government was a Pattern to all his Successors , his Reign was peaceable and flowrishing ; nor did he want States-men of the most raised abilities for his employments : Yet did not this Wise , this Holy Prince think it inconsistent with the Sacred Function ( which yet St. Austin tells us in some respects Operosius Ministerium than that of the Gospel ) to engage Levites in his weightiest secular Charges . For we find Hathaliah and his Brethren appointed Officers on this side Jordan , not only in the business of the Lord , but in the Service of the King : And Jerijah another in Holy Orders is made Plenipotentiary or Ruler over the Reubenites , the Gadites , and the half Tribe of Manassah in every matter pertaining to God , and in the affairs of the King likewise , 1 Chron. 26. 30. 32. Nor was he singular in it , but was Imitated by good Jehosaphat who made the Priests and the Levites Judges of all the Controversies in Israel , not excluding matters of Blood , 2 Chron. 19. 8 , 10. Now run over the Catalogue of all the Kings of Israel and were any to be paralled with these ? I am sure that none went beyond these , none whose Government did more prosper with Righteousness , Justice , and Tranquility . And though under the rest of the Kings we have no express mention of the same practice ; yet all things considered , we have more reason to conclude it held than the contrary , for we find Jehoiada the Priest chief Counsellour to Joash , 2 King. 11. And if we look into after times at the Babylonian Captivity , the Priests command all and possess the Scepter for some Hundred of years , for the Assamonaean , Race continued absolute Princes till Pompeys Conquest , Joseph . l. 13. c. 9. We may further add that many Civil Causes are by name reserv'd to the Levical Cognizance , as the Inquisition for Murther , false Witness , &c. Deut. 21. And yet after all , the Preachers of the Gospel do not hence draw arguments that they are chiefly and solely to be instructed with these great and Important Ministeries , but I do on their behalf averr , and will be ready to prove and maintain , That a fit allowance being made to the difference of Times and Persons ; the model prescribed by God himself under this Levitical Administration may safely be followed now in some things , and those no Circumstantials also . But leaving Moses , let us come to Christ , and see how matters stood under the Gospel , here though we have no instances of Honours conferr'd by our Saviour upon his Apostles , yet have we Prophesies , that after the publication thereof Kings should become the Nursing Fathers of it , and that the feet of those that brought the glad tydings of Peace should be Beautiful upon the Mountains , which Mr. Calvin applyeth to the Bounty and Munificence of Princes to the Church , Isa . 49. But for the first 300 years , What could rationally be expected from the professed Enemies of Christianity ? no other honours than cruel Persecutions whilst the persecuting fury lasted , whilst they were burnt in usum nocturni luminis , as Tacit. the Historian hath it . The ordinary sentence was , Toeda lucebis in illa Qua stantes ardent & fixo gutture fumant , Juven . But no sooner was Gentilism abolish'd , but we have a new and smiling face of Affairs under the happy Reign of Constantine the Churches great Patron , as well as the Clergies Friend . And henceforth the Primitive Piety was not wanting , who thought no Honours or Powers misplaced upon their Spiritual Fathers , for whom they judged nothing too dear . All Histories ring of Constantines kindness to his Clergy , by whom the most weighty Affairs of his Empire dureing his time was most happily transacted , and that most of his Successors wrote after his Copy will appear by what follows ; for it were very easie to muster a little Army of Fathers engaged in Secular Employments . We read Zozomen l. 6. c. 32. that Epiphanius Bishop of Cyprus , a Person of singular vertue , prudence , and piety , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , a man busied in Political matters , Theodoret reports l. 2. c. 30. that one Jacobus Bishop of Nisibis or the Mygdonian Antioch was 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , Bishop , Governour , and Captain of the same City . In Baronius , A. 610. I find that John Patriarch of Alexandria was accustomed to sit twice a Week and Judge between those that were at variance , and to reconcile them , and once when none came to him , he departed weeping , That all that day he had done no good , but Sophronius replyed , That he had more cause of rejoycing than of Weeping ; for having brought the City to such good Order , and to so great Peace , that they were more like Angels than men , having no differences left , but were all in friendship and amity . A rare Example to the Immortal Fame of an Exclesiastical Judge . We all remember that Sir Thomas Moore commanded it to be scored up as a wonder , That he had once been able to clear the High Court of Chancery from Suites , and not one cause to remain unheard : But here we have a Populous City ( hardly short of any in our Nation ) by the pains of a good Bishop , without any charge to the Litigants , reduced to a perfect unity within it self . But wee will pass over such obscure Names , whom it were endless to reckon up and Select only a few , whose eminent Labours have Eternized them to posterity , and begin with St. Ambrose , who flourished A. C. 378. and to his Conduct and Government was the great City of Milan entrusted , so that St. Austin . Conf. l. 6. c. 7. Complains that he was a long time kept from access to him Secludentibus me ab ejus aure atque ore Catervis negotiorum hominum quorum infirmit atibus serviebat ; He had whole troops of Suiters about him to dispatch their worldly business . The next shall be that great Affrican Light St. Austin , who Ep. 147. hath this passage , Homines quidem suas saeculares causas apud nos finire capientes , dum iis necessarii fuerimus , sit nos Sanctos & Dei Servos appellant , ut negotia terra suae peragant aliquando agamus negotia & salutis eorum non de auro , non de argento non de fundis & pecoribus pro quibus rebus quotide submisso capite salutamur ut dissentiones hominum terminemus . He saith he was every day sollicited to make up some breaches about Gold , Silver , Land , Cattel , &c. And yet where have we found a more Faithfull and Assiduous Preacher and Pastor than this good father ? Were any more engaged in contests with Hereticks , or any that left a larger Legacy of his Learned Labours to the Church ? I dare challenge any before or since the Churches Reformation , who have done the like , and who will say that the good Father had mispent his time , that had better been laid out in painfull Preaching to his flock ? Whereas we all know that Preaching is but a very small part of the Ministers Calling , yet of late times it hath been made by some to swallow up the rest of the Ministers Duties as necessary and Essential to his Callings as that can be ; and have observed also , that some Ministers themselves , otherwise good men , have been a wanting to themselves and the Church , in complying too much with a sort of men amongst us , whose interest it is to draw all Causes into their own Courts for the support of their own Grandeur and Faculty ; whereas otherwise those Suites and Causes might perhaps with little or no charge have been more speedily , yea and satisfactorily determined . Our last instance shall be in Gregory the Great , de Cur. Past , ( with who some close the good Popes ) whom we find complaining that Sub colore Episcopatus ad seculum retractus sum in quo tantis terrae curis inserrio quantis me in vita laic a nequaquam deseruisse reminiscor . He was never in all his Life time so encumbred with Worldly business , as after he came to be a Bishop ; but he afterwards adds that , Et si cogamur terrenis negotiis intendere , mens tamen nostra saeculari varietate non delectatur , sed tota in unum currit , atque confluit finem . Though he was forced to do this for the good of his People , yet he took no Pleasure in it , and his mind was taken up with better things , for all agree that these must not be undertaken out of love to them , but Christian Charity and Compassion to the oppressed , Aug. de Civ . Dei l. 19. c. 19. Now these Imployments were conferred upon those Father 's not as Bishops but as Subjects more Eminently qualified than others , both by their Prudence , Experience , and Integrity , as well as Humane Learning . But Three there are ( in which they did Principally engage ) and which may seem most agreeable to their Coat : First , To be in the Commission of Peace ; and to speak Impartially , Who fitter for such a Work than they , whose business and Calling it is to reconcile those that are at variance : And this was the design of the Ancients , though at first it began in a way of Charity ; yet being found profitable , it was upon mature Deliberation by the Christian Emperors confirmed , particularly by Constantine , Zozom . lib. 1. c. 9. who leaves it free to any , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . Valens and Valentinian enlarged it and intrusted them with the Rates of Commodities Sold in the Market , Cod. l. 1. de Aud. Ep. tit . 7. Their Jurisdiction I confess hath been in several ages various , sometimes more sometimes less as the Emperors were more or less favourable to the Church , whoever kept the Soveraignty in their own hands , Constantine was the first that passed the Royal Grant in favour of the Clergy , permitting the Cognizance of all Civil matters , even between Laymen to the Episcopal Tribunal if either party did require it , though the other denyed his consent , and their appeal was to be obeyed by the Magistrates whenever made , though the action was already commenced in another Court. Arcadius and Honorius did a little retrench this unlimitted power , yet still allowing it by the joint consent of both parties , and making the Bishops as it were Referees , l. si quis ex consensu . de Aud. Episcop . and their decision to be binding and final without appeal . This Law was after ratified by Theodosius and Justinian l. Episc . c. eod . Nay this latter Emperor Justinian reposed so much confidence in them , that he made them Overseers of the Secular Judges , Novel . Const . 56. This then has been the practise of that pure and Primitive Age , and the greatest Enemies the Church had , could never deny but that the Bishops have had their Tribunals for above these 1300 years Erected by Constantine , confirmed by Arcadius and Honorius , Theodosius and Valentinian , &c. Only some Curiously mince the matter , and allow them power to hear Causes , and to become Referees and Umpires by the consent of both Parties , but yet they will not hear talk of any Coercive Jurisdiction , though as eminent Civil Lawyers as any are , Attribute it to them , and particularly Accursius interprets Audientia Episcopalis , a term frequent in the Code by Jurisdictio ; and Constantine forbad expresly the greatest Prince in the Empire to revoke what once the Bishops had Decreed , Euseb , Vit. Const . l. 4. c. 27. In process of time the Magistrates having encroached upon , and almost outed the Clergy , Charlemaine revives that good old Law of Constantine , confirming the same Jurisdiction to all Bishops , repeating the Charter word for word , Car. Mag. in Capit. l. 6. c. 28. What the practise was in our own Country of England shall God willing be made out in what follows , wherein I doubt not but to give abundant satisfaction of the Factum that the Clergy were employed as much as the Laity in the Decision of Secular Causes , so far as we have good Authority and Record in the times of the Saxons , and so downwards till our late and unhappy Divisions 1640 , &c. which God grant may be ever buryed in Oblivion , and that we may never live to see the same again . Secondly , To be of the Privy Council , where frequently Cases of Consciences relating to State-matters may arise : As suppose there be a Consultation about a War or Marriage , the Lawfulness or Unlawfulness thereof , must be judged in foro Conscientiae , and so is the proper Subject of a Divine or Clergyman ; and perhaps the thing will not bear so much delay , as to Summons Prelates together for Advice nor Reason of State to be so much published , for want of such Knowing and Religious Counsellours , Princes may often be entangled in unjust Massacres , and rash Wars , and Innocent Blood be spilt , which otherwise might have been prevented : And for prevention whereof the Godly Prudent Princes both of our own and other Nations have ever admitted some spiritual Persons to their Counsel Tables , and Closet Debates . To the good advice of Bishop Fox of Winchester we owe the Union of the two Kingdoms of England and Scotland ; for the other Privy Counsellors advising King Henry the 7th to Marry the Eldest of his Daughters to France , the more Noble and Rich Kingdom : the old and wise Bishop adviseth his Majesty the contrary , at which the King seeming somewhat surpriz'd , the Bishop gave him this as the reason of his Opinion , that by Marrying the Elder to Scotland , that Kingdom would be brought to England , and old Enmities reconciled and for ever buryed : Whereas on the contrary England being under France , we should have here been ruled by a French Liuetenant of Deputy , which the English he doubted would hardly brook , and perhaps our Government and Laws by reason of their unagreeableness to the French , might have been attempted to have been changed into those of France , which the English man ( his Opinion was ) would hardly bear : Whereas those of Scotland were not so much differing from the Laws and Customes of England , and t was to be hoped the two Nations would better accord together than the English and French would . The good event of which Counsel we have seen with our own Eyes , and may it long continue . It is recorded of Constantine that he would not in any wise dispense with the absence of his Bishops from him , who had he lived in our Prophane age , the Churches Enemies would have said that the good Emperour had been Priest ridden , a well-meaning man but not overwise : But the good Emperors joy it was to see His Court to be as it were a Church . Nay so much use of these Holy men he made , that he made them follow him in his journeys and warlike Expeditions , Euseb . de vit . ejus l. 1. c. 35. Idem l. 4. c. 56. So that we read in Peter Blesensis Ep. 84. ad Alex. 3. how he proves at large there , That it is not only lawfull but very expedient for Prelates to be in the Courts and Counsels of Princes upon such like important reasons as those are , and therein excuses the Bishops of Winchester , Ely , and Norwich . Thirdly , To be employed in Treaties and Negotiations of Peace and Commerce , and this both the Ancient and Modern practise will justifie , that none have been more frequently or more successfully used and employed in such Messages than the Ambassadours of Christ : Solemn Embassies cannot be expected before the Magistrate embraced the Gospel . But in the very beginning of the 4th Century we have Maruthas Bishop of Mosopotamia sent Embassador from the Emperor of Rome to the King of Persia , Socrat. l. 7. c. 8. Presently after Theodorick dispatcht Epiphanius Bishop of Ticinum or Pavia to Gunebald King of the Burgundians , Eunoch . Tisin , vit . Epiphan . who at his request released great numbers of poor Christian Captives . Then we have St. Ambrose sent by Valentinian to Maximus that commanded the British Armys , to desire Peace , which he happily effected to the great contentment of his Master , Ambros . Ep. 27. l. 5. where he mentions an other Embassy wherein he was imployed . I might add St. Chrysostome imployed to treat with Gainas as Baronius informs us . John Bishop of Rome commissioned by Theodorick to Justine the Emperor , Niseph . with multitudes of others in latter times , whereof if I should give instance some perhaps would reply upon me that those were times of Popery and Ignorance ; yet perhaps of more candid simplicity and honesty than the times wherein we live ; and for the Moderns the time would fail me to speak of our own and Neighbour Nations ; for this continued the Universal practise of Christendome till Sincerity gave place to Hypocrisie , and that new Definition of an Embassadour came up , that he was , Vir peregre missus ad spetiose mentiendum Reipub. causa . A good man sent abroad to tell specious lies for his Countries service . Then indeed it was high time for these Holy men to resign up these Employements to others whose Education and course of Life better became them . Thus we have seen both Ancient and Modern Usage on the Clergys side , the uninterrupted practise of the World for above 5000 years before and under the Law in the purest times since the Gospel all sorts of men both Pagan , Jewish and Christian , allowing it in their practise , and none ever questioning it , save some late , and those few Innovators , who though they have disclaimed the infallibility of the Church of Rome , seem to stick a little to close to that of Geneva or Scotland , we have heard the most eminent amongst the Fathers engaged by their Princes in Secular Employments , and if yet still this must be an Error , sit Anima mea cum patribus , I dare cast my Lot on that side . 'T is confest 't is pitty that any should be misled by Authority , but 't is most miserable not to be moved by Authority . This then being the Factum or usance as is Evident , let us a little in the next place examine the Jus of it , and for any Fanatick to except against it , is a self-contradiction , since their avowed Principles and dayly Practise allow their Teachers to follow any other Calling , either of Camp , Country or City without control . But it is the rigid Disciplinarian who takes the most Offence at it , and therefore to him we shall address our selves , and for once suppose him to be of the little Commonwealth of Geneva , and to have the best parts , and to be Master of the best head-piece amongst them . If the Senate or Syndi● should commission him to decide a difference between his quarrelling . Neighbours , or send to him to advise with him about a War with their great Enemy the Duke of Savoy , or engage him to Solicite at the Court of France , or at the Suisse Cantons as a Publick Agent , there being none more likely to prevail in such an Embasie than himself ; and the little Commonwealth otherwise would be in danger to be lost . In this case should he be heard pleading the inconsistency of his Holy Profession with such an imployment , and thereupon return a denyal ; if so , then the Magistrate will be an ill condition , who must be obeyed in nothing more than the others Calling enjoins him whether commanded or no , and his being a spiritual Person will make the Civil Magistrate loose the service and use of his Subject : A thing yet which the most eminent amongst them have not declined ; for that neither Mr. Calvin formerly in the one , nor Mr. Henderson of later times in the other , have not scrupled greater matters . But let matters be made never so clear , it may be feared that the Vulgar have taken up such prejudices from the inexcuseable business of some late Preachers here amongst us interesting their very Pulpits in State matters dureing our late Troubles ( a practise never sufficiently to be condemn'd ) that all perhaps may be bound to their good Behaviour for a while for the Miscarriages of these men , who have been so notoriously guilty of the supposed crime , they have been guilty of in their Preaching against it , and chargeing it upon other men , who never ( as they did ) engaged in any thing of that nature , but when they were commanded to it by the Magistrate : Though 't is hoped that all learned and judicious Persons will be more considerate , and distinguish between the frantick madness of a few giddy Pates , and the sober actings of Eminent Prelates commission'd by lawfull Authority , and not take an advantage from the miscarriages of this other sort of men to bring an irreparable injury on Posterity by debarring others more sober than they . It is a true saying and confirmed by the experience of many hundred of years . Laici sunt semper inimici Clero . When the World was Pagan , the Devil taught the multitude to cry out if any publick Calamity hapens , that the Christians were in the fault , and they must to the Lyons : but now the cunning Sophister hath changed his note , and if any thing be amiss either in Church or State , presently the blame must be cast upon the Clergy ; They must be Sacrificed to appease the many-headed Multitude , their Lands Sequestred or Sold , and all places of Honour and Trust interdicted them ; certain we are , the qualifications of a Bishops Calling do not in the least incapacitate him such employments as we have been speaking of : For ( 1. ) 't is required that he be Vitae Probatissimae , of an upright unblameable Conversation . ( 2. ) Nullius Criminis reus . ( 3. ) Aetate gravis , well stricken in years . ( 4. ) Doctrina praestans , excelling in Learning , with many other of the like nature . Now if these are not kept , they have the more to answer for whom it concerns , if they be observed , will not any one who reads this , conclude no Persons more fit than they for the most weighty Affairs ? For all Polititians make Integrity , Prudence , and Learning the Principal ingredients of an accomplisht Magistrate ; so that if Aptitude be respected , we may safely affirm there are none better qualified for Counsel than the Clergy , whose Education and Institution hath enabled them to look into all the Idaeas and Models of Government ; to search the Depths and Mysteries of Empires , most of which are lockt up in strange Languages , and 't is not every capacity that can gain the Key . Then for true Politicks ( the late Florentine's Reaches let other men learn and admire ) there 's as much to be found in the Historical part of the Scripture , as in any Books in the World , so that Divines may in all probability make good Statists . And is it not pitty then that their Countrys should be deprived of such hopefull and eminent abilities ? doubtless those of the contrary Opinion do not throughly weigh the consequences of their Assertion , clearly leading to disjoin the Church from being a part of the Commonwealth , which for 1300 years and better have been happily united ; if the Bishops and other Spiritual Persons who yet by their Revenue are so considerable in the Commonwealth , must no longer be lookt upon as Citizens , or parts of it , and eo ipso be debarred from Employments , but incontinently forfeit all their Priviledges as such , the consequence I presume would not be very good . CHAP. III. Some Authorities from Scriptures , and the Canons of the Antient Church seemingly contradicting the former position explained . AND yet for all this we confess we find many good men are strongly perswaded that Ecclesiasticks ought wholly to be excluded from Civil matters : An Opinion indeed much pretending to Humility and self-denyal , and receiving some countenance and colour from Scriptures , the practise of three first Centuries , and some Canons of Counsel which must be the Subject of our next consideration . The Text that is most insisted upon is , 2 Tim. 2. 4. which being mistranslated by the Vulgar Latine Militans Deo begat greater prejudice in the minds of many . First , Then we may take notice that the Sentence is general , and belongs to every calling and sort of men , though in a more peculiar manner 't is referred to the Preachers of the Gospel , yet none can plead exemption , but others are willing to slip their necks out of the Collar , , and the Clergy only must be tied to it , whom for the present we will grant to be principally concern'd . The stress of all lies upon the words 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which Theophylact expounds by 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the tumults and confusions of this Life , Corn. a Lapide saies 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 are such employments as concern food and rayment , and instance in these agricultur ; mercatura & artes mechanicae . Now who does not readily approve of this , and judge it very improper that a Preacher should be a Merchant , a Plowman or a Mechanick , do not both Common and Cannon Laws forbid the same ? Estius has much to the like purpose , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , &c. Quae quis exercet ut habeat unde vivat , and therefore quotes to this purpose a saying of Ambrose , Indecorunt est homines 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 qui militant Deo , this then rather flies in the face of them that permit their Preachers to put on Blew Aprons , and make them such sordid allowances , that they must either work with their hands or starve , seeing it is not comely that the Lords Warriours should busie themselves about inferiour matters that tend to get a livelihood , and so Valla render it , not negotiis but negotiationibus , when our Saviour employed Fishermen to Preach his Gospel , weak instruments to confound the powers of this World , though he furnished them with suitable abilities that they needed not to study , yet he made them leave their nets , and not use them as their ordinary Profession . But lastly , and most satisfactorily , the Apostle here makes a comparison between Prophane and Spiritual Warfare , and therefore the better to understand the genuine sense we must consider what Military Discipline did require , Veg. l. 2. says that by the Laws of War he must not have any private affairs committed to him , nor mind his own gain . Hence we read in Florus of the Romans severely proceeding against Posthumius for imploying his Soldiers to till the ground , Vid. Leg. Arcad. & Honorii Tit. Miles . And Leo the Emperor says expresly , those that are armed and maintained by the Commonwealth must only mind publick affairs , and not till the ground , keep Cattel , or Traffick , L. Mil. C. de re Militari l. 12. All avocations were inhibited , and such matters as tended only to the publick good enjoyned them , and why then should not the same Analogy hold here , and such affairs be permitted to the Clergy , as tend to the good of the Church , and the Glory of their great Commander . Next we are urged by the Apostles practice who were so tender of any interruption that they denied to attend upon tables , and make provision for the Poor . 'T is true , in the infancy of the Church , when the Gospel was to be published all the World over , the Work great , and the Labourers exceeding few , the least diversion at such a time would prove a considerable hindrance and destraction to them . But now when the Lord of the Harvest has encreast the number , and plentifully furnished his peaceable settled Church , every Village being now supplied , and if the complaints of some be true , the Nation so overstock'd , that there 's hardly employment , much less maintenance for the Multitude . In this case to make no difference of times , when the mercifull Providence of God hath made so vast a distinction seems little agreeable to reason . But if from this , occasion must be taken presently to forbid every petty interruption and disturbance ; how came St. Paul to contradict himself , and to follow his Tent making , labouring with his hands for a livelihood , which must needs take up a good part of his time , and hinder his Praying and Preaching . Add to this , that the seven Deacons appointed by the Apostles to succeed them in the care of the Collections , were according to Epiphanius of the number of the 70 Disciples , and yet for the publick benefit , their constant Preaching was now and then dispenced with to attend on Tables . Thirdly , They argue from the Canons of the Primitive Church , prohibiting Clergy men to judge and intermeddle in Civil Matters , or any Causes Secular ; the Prohibitions of this sort are many and various , they may be seen in Balsamon , Zonarus , Binias , &c. It would be an infinite task to give particular answers to each Canon , and therefore I shall lay down some general Rules , which may the better conduce to the understanding of them all , which if well applyed will make an abundant solution to that so complicated an Objection . And here I cannot but admire the Modesty of the Primitive Church , and the Charity of the People the earnestness of Princes in Commissioning of Spiritual Persons to compose all emergent differences , and the forwardness of the oppressed in flying to the Tribunals for Justice , whereupon the Holy Fathers in process of time to take off their Clergy from those Affairs made sundry and severe Canons in divers Counsels , and therefore ( 1. ) 'T is clear , the great design was to forbid ambitious seeking after , and voluntary engageing in Secular matters for Sordid ends , and out of Covetous Principles , and this may probably be collected , because we find a dispensation given when imposed by the supreme Magistrate . In the Counsel of Sardis t is granted upon the motion of Osius , Si religiosi imparatoris literis vel invitati vel vocati fuerint , and undertaken in obedience as causes of Piety and Charity , overseeing Widdows and Orphans , provided it extended not to the notorious neglect of their Religious Callings . And thus Justin Martyr calls the Bishop the great Steward of all the poor , Apol. 2. the Contributions of the Faithfull being laid down at his feet , and by him distributed . And Ignatius Ep. ad Polycarp . calls the Bishop the great Trustee of the Widdows . ( 2 ) 'T is not a total prohibition , but only a prudent restraint , least animosities and jealousies should arise in the Laity , by too much encroaching upon their Courts , and therefore the wisdom of sundry Counsels confin'd the Clergy to such matters as were properly of Ecclesiastical Cognizance . But ( 3. ) The ground and reason of these interdictions was not the unfitness and incapacity of spiritual Persons , but out of respect to their eminent Callings , least they should be disparaged by mean and vile employments , and express mention is made of sordid Offices about Princes and Noble men , as of Stewards , Bailiffs , &c. But when by the favour of Princes their employments were honourable , and their temporary diversions did bring abundant recompence to the Church ; we find those that had the principal hadn in enacting these Canons themselves engageing . Now can it be supposed , if this had been the meaning , they would have been guilty of so great a contradiction , and no future Counsel reprove it . St. Cyprian much confirms me in this Opinion , l. de Lapsis , is perswaded that God sent the great Persecution under Decius onely to awaken the Christians , who were growing exceeding corrupt , especially the Clergy ; for he there complains that the Bishops themselves abandoned their holy Functions , and dealt in matters of the World , haunting Marts and Fairs for filthy lucre sake . And much to same purpose we find in Writers of our own Country , as Gildas , Bede , &c. But to make peace between quarrelling Nations , to compound differences amongst Christians , and such like , tending to the honour of God and the Glory of the Gospel , which may be often practised without detriment to their Spiritual charges , I never find these expresly forbidden , or such as engaged in them , as Cyprian , Austin , Chrysostom , Gregory , Bernard , &c. Condemned ; for St. Paul became all things to all men to gain a Soul : Will not the example bear his Successors out , if they go to the utmost verge of their Christian Liberty , still keeping on this side sin , to preserve Kingdoms , the Churches Peace , and to prevent the effusion of Christian Blood , their absence some days from their private charges will be abundantly recompenced by such happy consequences . CHAP. IV. The Ancient Estate of the Clergy and Priests in this and other Kingdoms . WE have before intimated that the Prudent Piety of the first Christian Emperours , for the better Encouragement of Religion and Learning did confer many and great Priviledges and exemptions upon their Clergy in those Primitive times . Come we now to manifest that the Franchise , of our Brittish Church , were neither short for number or extent , and that they a reall confirmed by Magna Charta without restraint , the words are we have granted to God ; and by this our present Charter confirmed and for our Heirs for ever , that the Church of England shall be free , and have all her whole Rights and Liberties invitolable , all the Nation being content to stand accursed if this grant were at any time infringed . You may see in Ancient Authors the manner of its Publication ( viz. ) The King , Prelates , and Peers , &c. came with burning Tapers in their hands , throwing them down on the ground , and saying , so let his light be extinguished in the other World , which shall go about to break this Charter and Agreement , yea more if any thing should be done against it and contrary to it , it was ipso facto declared void , 26. Edw. 1. c. 2. And must Magna Charta be violated only when the Clergys Priviledges are invaded , Why shall it not stand firm and good for them , and on their behalfs , as for the Laity ? Did not the Clergy labour as much as any for the Procurement of it ? Nay were they not they who procured it from the several and respective Kings ? Let us desire the Enemies of the Clergy to see their own Cronicles , and they shall receive satisfaction . Now what the Liberties of the Church were , to set them down would ask a Volume ; the Lord Chief Justice Cooke says expresly , they had more and greater than other of the Kings Subjects , some few he recites , as that they were discharged from Purveyances , Tolls , Customs , Distresses by the Sheriff in the old inheritance of the Church , with others of the like nature . It might fetch tears from some to look back upon the Piety and Charity of our Saxon Ancestors who in their greatest impositions ever held their Ecclesiasticks excused , no part of that insupportable Tax of Danegelt , under which the Kingdom so much groaned , being ever paid by them , Vid. Spelm. Gloss . in Danegelt . and it may be made appear that till after the Conquest ( the tenure of their Lands being at that time Frank Almoigne ) they were ever priviledged . For King Ethelwolf in a full Convention of his States at Winchester , Ann. Dom. 858. Enacted that Tithes and Church Lands throughout all his Dominions should be free from Civil Burdens and Exactions , as much as Royal Tributes great and small , Vid. Spelm. Concil . ad Annum dictum . But dureing our late intestine Wars , How unequal were Quarterings and Contributions ? What heavy Burthens did the poor Clergy bear , no redress being found to their bitterest complaints from the Lay Judges , who in some places made sport at their Miseries and Oppressions , as if nothing had been too hard or insupportable for their shoulders ; now those days through Mercy are over , and must be forgotten , to receive almost in all places the same hard measure from their pretended well-wishers , This strikes to the very heart . When no regard is had of all their past sufferings ; First-fruits , Tenths , ( no small standing revenue of the Crown , amounting as some compute to near 40000 l. per annum ) which they joyfully discharge , but they must still be left to the arbitrary disproportionate Impositions of every Domineering insolent Officer : The consideration hereof hath convinced many ( formerly of a different perswasion ) that 't is not only usefull but expedient , yea necessary for the Church , to have some of his own Ordering Power to protect them , and to hear and redress their just grievances . But what further concerns the Clergys Priviledges and just Rights , being so learnedly handled by the Immortal Spelman ; and the general ones so fully Collected by Rebuffus de Stud. Priv. and others , I shall not here any further enlarge upon them . The grand concern at present , and which we principally design is , how far they were Priviledged as to publick Assemblies and State Consultations . And that the Holy Constantine , and many other famous Kings and Emperours have made use of their advice both at Home and Abroad , employed them in Embassies and other important Transactions hath been already demonstrated . And here in the first place , if such an argument could hope to sway with us Christians , it would soon be proved that those who attended the Worship of the Heathen gods were admitted in Greece , the then most knowing and civilized part of the World , into their Pan-Aetolium and Amphyctionian Counsels . Amongst the Athenian Areopagites and Roman Senators , and that the Old Gauls divided their states in Druidas ( who had omnium rerum immunitatem ) Equites , Plebem , as the Egyptians before did into Priests , Soldiers and Tradesmen . But leaving Gentilisme we will hasten to Christendome : And here once for all , desire our Reader to consider , that by the fundamental Constitutions of the most and best settled Nations in Europe , there are three States generally settled whereof the Clergy is ever one : Now to make this good , though we might produce variety of instances , yet we shall content our selves with the single Testimony of Calvin alone , knowing that it will go farther with some , than a Jury of others , This we find expresly asserted in his Institutions , l. 4. c. 20. Sect. 31. In singulis regnis tres sunt ordines , &c. which how to make up without the Spiritualty will be hard and beyond my skill . In our Neighbour Nation of France the practise is notoriously known , the ancient stile of the Royal Edicts always running , as 't is Recorded of Pepin , Ann. 744. Per Consilium Sacerdotum & Optimatum ordinavimus , Per Consilium Sacerdotum & optimatum ordinavit Carolamanus , Thuanus passim . It might farther be noted that six Prelates are here Pairee of that great and famous Kingdom , three of them being stiled Dukes , and three Counts , See Seldens Titles of Honours , and yet the whole number of the Pairee exceeds not Twelve . As likewise the Arch Bishop of Paris hath a peculiar indulgence in being present in every Court of that Royal City without exception Chappinus . Look we into Hungary where Thwroczius informs us that by the Fundamental Constitutions of King Stephen , the Bishops in Concilio Regis primi adsistunt . Poland comes behind none in its Reverence and Respect for their Clergy , where the Arch Bishop of Gnesna is Primas Regni & Princeps primus , Stanis . Kristanowick in discrip . Polon . whose jurisdiction is not limited to the Spirituality alone , but hath the chief place in the Rank of the Senators assigned him , and is of the greatest Authority in all publick Consultations : And when at any time there happens an Interregnum ( as it frequently doth in those Elective Kingdoms ) it belongs to him to summon a Dyet to give Audience to Forreign Embassadours , and to appoint a time and place for the Election of a New King. Our Author farther enlargeth this to have proceeded from the Piety of the Popish Kings towards the Church , that the Sons of it should for ever hold the highest places in their Conventions , with many other Priviledges which to this day they enjoy in his own words , [ and he no Clergyman neither , but a Lawyer ] Maxime illius Regni commodo , emolumento , adjumento , addo & ornamento . Cromerus another Historian of that Country adds , that there is ever a Royal standing Council assigned the King , of which there is to be two Arch Bishops , and seven Bishops . And how considerable a number in all the German Dyets the Ecclesiasticks are Panvinius is a Witness beyond exception , who reckons thirty four Bishops that have their Votes there besides Abbots , Priors , &c. who pass for Religious Persons , and in the Septemvirate we find no less than three Clergy-men , Mentz Arch Chancellour of Germany , Coln of France , and Triers of Italy . I shall wholly out of this Collection omit Spain and Italy , as being such known vassals to the Pope , where the Clergy Rule the Roast . But one word dashes all this [ with some ] They are Papists , a doughty argument to condemn any thing though backed by never so strong reasons : And let us examine how matters stand with others , Andreas Bureus in his Description of Sueden , acknowledges that the Ecclesiasticks were heretofore the Prime men in the Senate , till the Covetousness of Gustavus the first despoiled them of their Revenues : Yet since the Reformation , they still to this day retain their suffrages in all Publick Dyets of the Kingdom . And when the New Crowned King makes choice of his Counsellors , the Arch Bishop of Upsal is still the first , who is allowed a greater proportion of Attendants , when he comes to the King than any Noble man in the Nation , no fewer than Forty Horse being permitted him ; whereas the retinue of the other Noble men must not exceed Thirty . And in the great Assembly at Lincopen , Ann. 1600. we find both Bishops and other Ecclesiasticks . And as to Denmark , Pontanus recites Seven Bishops as the Ecclesiastical Nobility , and these have their Votes in all Grand Meetings . Jonas ab Elvervelt distributes the States of Holstein into three Orders , 1. King and Princes . 2. Prelates . 3. The Families of the Nobles . And he makes the Bishops of Lubeck and Slewick the two Prime Peers in all their Dyets . In Scotland it is known that anciently the Bishops and Prelates were Essential Members of the Parliament , and had their Seats as ours here in England on the Right hand of the King : And in a Parliament held at Edenborough , Ann. 1597. a Vote passed for restoring the Clergy to their Original Priviledges , as the Third Estate in that Kingdom ; the Learned Prince King James Condemning that Act of Annexing their Temporalities to the Crown as Vile and Pernitious , Basil . Dor. l. 2. p. 43. Then for Geneva it self , who is so much a stranger to that Reformation , as to be ignorant what a stroke Calvin and others had upon the Senate or grand Counsel , which gave occasion to that complaint of some , that they had expelled One Bishop and admitted many . If remote Countries be to be regarded , amongst the Abissines the Clergy is Paramount in Affairs of all natures , and we read in Damianus a Goes of Zaga Zaba an Ethiopian Bishop Viceroy of Bagana sent Embassadour to the King of Portugal , Dress . Orat. In Muscovy their supreme Convention , which those Inhabitants call Zabore , consists of the great Duke , Twenty Ecclesiasticks , and as many Nobles , the common People being wholly excluded ; and when they are met together , the Patriarch and Ecclesiasticks are always first Consulted , and first deliver their Opinion . I shall conclude this Paragraph , onely reminding , that neither the Pagans nor Mahometans are so inhumane or irreligious , or discourteous to their Priests as to deny them this Liberty : For that Tully acquaints us that it was the appointment of the Gods , that the Roman Pontifices should not only take care of their Religion , but further Sumnis Reipub. praeesse voluerunt , Orat. pro. dom . sua . Nay at this very day the Barbarous Turks never exclude their . Mufti , but allow him free entrance , and Vote into all their Divans and Counsels ; yea the great Sultan himself so Honours the Mufti , that as often as he comes into his Presence , he rises from his Seat , and according to their mode , putting his hand to his breast , bows his head in token of reverence and Honour , which he shews not to any other Subject , and will hardly vouchsafe the like honours to the mightiest Monarch upon Earth . CHAP. V. Englands more particular Respect and Kindness to the Clergy . I Might here be very large should I but give the World a brief account of the Honour which our Saxon Kings had for their Clergy , neither was this a matter onely precarious , and by the Courtesie ( as we say ) of England , Sed ipsis confirmatum legibus , Spelm. Concil . Ep. ad Regem . The Person who Ministred at the Altar was esteemed equal in all things in censu pariter Capitis , to the Lord of the Mannour or any Knight , Leg. Aethel . c. ult . de Wirgildis . The Abbot was esteemed no less than a greater Thane which now we call a Baron of the Kingdom . The Bishop of no inferiour Rank than the Count or Earl , Qui integro fruebantur comitatu . The Arch Bishop equal to any Duke , who might happen to be set over , and have the Rule of many Countries ; for that saith the Learned Spelman , in these times our Kings gave always the greatest respect and honour to their Clergy ; for that in their keeping were the Keys of Learning and Knowledge , the Seculars in the mean time addicting themselves most what to the Wars , so that in those times it came to pass that the Priests mouth was the Oracle of our Common People no less than of the King and Commonwealth ; for that they had ever the first Place in our Commitia's and Assemblies , no less than in the Kings Courts of Justice , and Law Tribunals in the Kings Palace with the Nobles of his Kingdom in the Counties with the Comittees and Justices of the Counties , in the Sheriffs Courts [ turno Vicecomites ] together with the Sheriffs , the Bishops had their Adsessors , yea in the Hundred Courts , they or their Ministers sate together , with the Lord of the Hundred : so that one sword was ever helpfull to the other in the Administration of Justice , and nothing of moment was done in these Courts of Judgment , but by their advice and assistance , Spelm. l. prius citat . The practice of the Kingdom ran parallel with the Law ; for in all Antient Charters and Laws which heretofore were passed and made by signing their names cum signo crucis , the Spiritual Lords ever preceeded the Temporal . In a donation of Ethelbert , A. D. 605. to the Monastery of St. Peter in Canterbury , the first witness subscribing it , is Austin the Bishop , and after him several Dukes and Earls , Monast . Angl. & Spelm. Conc. passim . In a Charter of King Inas , Ann. Dom. 725. To the Monastery of Glassenbury , after the Bishops , Boorthwald and Fordred , occur Waldhere , Ethelherd , Ummin and Winchelin , the greatest Peers in the Nation putting their Names . Not long after in a Grant of King Offus to the Abby of Worcester , Ann. Dom. 708. Brotdran , Berthand , Eadbald , and Eadbald , two Princes , and two Dukes , follows the Bishops . And at the same Kings Consecration at St. Albans , Ann. 793. No less than 10 Dukes , besides other Nobles give place to the Prelates . And to make an end , in a Charter of King Edward the Confessor to the Monastery of Winchester ; immediately after the King subscribed Plegmund and Frithestan the Bishops , being followed by Ethelward the Kings Brother , Aethelstan , Aelfweard the Kings two Sons , Oredluf , Orced , Brorh●●●f and Heerferth Dukes , many more of this nature might be produced out of the same Authors , and others , as standing monuments of the Clergies Reputation , and the Reverence our Religious Ancestors bare to their Functions , particularly the third Charter of King Edward the Confessor of the Foundation of the Abby of Westminster , where more particularly we find Osberne and Peter two of the said Kings Chaplains , signing the Charter before several of the Earls . And furthermore , here is Statute Law in the Case that this usage may not be thought to proceed meerly from the Curtesie of England , 't is confirm'd by the Statute of the 31 Hen. 8. c. 10. Wherein all degrees and offices are placed in Assemblies and Conferences , and there the Arch Bishop of Canterbury as primus Par regni the first Peer of the Kingdom is ranked before all the Nobility , and Seated at the Kings right hand , next and immediately after the Royal Blood , and the Vicegerent , and the rest of the Bishops follow him in their due precedency , according to the Dignities and Aunciencies of their respective Sees . See farther , the Statute of 8. of Eliz. c. 1. where in that Statute they are called an high , and one of the greatest Estates of the Kingdom , nor were they ever excluded from the greatest Employments of Honours and Trust in the Kingdom , and to evidence , that this is not spoke without Book , we will subjoin a Catalogue of Churchmen Collected out of Godwin , Malmesbury , Spelman , Dugdale , and others , &c. that have born all , at least the most honourable Offices of State , and ( how ever bespatter'd by some ) discharged them with much integrity and repute ; England owing more of its happiness to men of this Calling than any other , though it cannot be denyed but some miscarriages might be here and there found , and yet as few as can be expected in such a Multitude : and if a man were disposed to find fault , he might without much pains takeing two for one in Critically examining any other Profession . Let us begin then with Englands Metropolitan , to whom this Primacy justly appertains , and take the rest in Order , onely premising this , that t is true indeed we find fewer of this See upon the Civil Stage than any other , most Offices being lookt upon as below the Archiepiscopal Dignity , and therefore a Nobleman upbraided Hurbert Arch Bishop 1199. when he was made Chancellour of England , Chief Justice of England , and high Governour of all the Dominions under King Richard the first , however we shall begin with his Person and See. Canterbury . Hubert under Richard 1. and King John , who intrusted the same Prelate with the Government of the whole Realm at his departure into Normandy . Gualter , Reynolds Chancellour , Ann. Dom. 1310. John Stratford Chancellour under Edw. 3. And when the King Invaded France , no Person thought so fit in his absence to have the Government of the Nation entrusted to him . Simon Islip of the Privy Counsel to the Edw. 3. John Stafford to Hen. 5. John Morton to Hen. 6. and Edw. 4. But we need not stand upon this , when in truth it hath been seldom known that any of them have been at any time omitted : Nor was this proper only to the times of Propery : Come to the Reformation , we find Arch Bishop Cranmer of the Privy Counsel to Hen. 8. and Edw. 6. and very active in Civil matters , yet a man so averse to Rome , so instrumental in planting the Gospel , so Laborious , so Holy , that a great Apocalyptical man Mr. Brightman , in his Commentaries oa the Apocalypse [ a man no friend to the Hierarchy ] takes him to be that Angel pointed at by God , Rev. 14. that had power over the fire . Under the renown'd Queen Elizabeth , John Whitgift of the Council , and had the Government of the Principality of Wates given to him . YORK . Waler Gray Chancellour under King John , had the Government of the Realm entrusted to him under Hen. 3. William de Melton Successively Treasurer and Chancellour of England , 1317. William de Zouche Vicegerent to King Edw. Ann. Dom. 1346. John Kemp , Ann. 1425. twice Lord Chancellour . And Thomas Young Lord Precident of the North , An. Dom. 1561. LONDON . There was not long since to be seen in St. Pauls the Monument of William Bishop of London , who obtained from the Conqueror the City Charter , to which the Lord Major and his Brethren the Aldermen used in a gratefull Commemoration every year to walk on foot : He was Privy Counsellor to King William the Conqueror . Mauritius Chancellour under the same King. Eustachius de Falconbridge one of King Rich. 1. his Justices , Chancellour of the Exchequer , Treasurer of England , and twice Embassadour into France . Henry de Wingham Chancellour under Edw. 3. Ralph Boldoc under Edw. 1. Richard Bintworth under Edw. 3. Robert Braybrook under Rich. 2. Richard Cox Dean of Westminster ( whom I crave leave to name here as belonging to the Diocess ) of the privy Counsel to Edw. 6. And Bishop Bancroft sent Embassadour to Embden , to treat with the King of Denmarks Commissioners , Ann. Dom. 1600. DURHAM . Geoffrey Rufus Chancellour of England , Ann. Dom. 1140. Richardus de Marisco , Ann. Dom. 1217. Anthony Beake of the Privy Councel , Ann. Dom. 1294. Richard de Bury Cancellarius , Ann. Dom. 1334. and Treasurer , Ann. Dom. 1336. Thomas Langley Chancellor , Ann. Dom. 1406. Thomas Ruthal of the Counsel to Henry 8. and as his Monument at Westminster testifies , Secretary to Hen. 7. Richard Neyle of the Privy Council , A. D. 1627. And here we cannot omit that known passage of Newbrigensis , who brings in K. Richard , making himself merry with the Bishop , boasting what a feat he had done , E Vetusto Episcopo novitium Comitem ego mirus artifex feci , To make a New Count of an Old Bishop , a Priviledge yet continued to that Ancient See. WINCHESTER . Swithan Chancellour of England under K. Egbert , Ann. Dom. 860. William Giffard Chancellour under the Conqueror , William Rufus , and K. Henry 1. Peter de la Roch. Lord Chief Justice under K. John. Sendall Chancellour , 1316. William Edenden Treasucr under Edw. 3. William of Wickam , Founder of New Colledge in Oxon , Principal Secretary of State , Keeper of the Privy Seal , Master of the Wards , and Treasurer of the Kings Revenues in France , Ann. Dom. 1360. William Wainfleet Founder of Magdalen Colledge Oxon , for his great Wisdom and Integrity long Lord Chancellor of England under Hen. 6. Richard Fox ( Founder of C. C. C. Oxon ) one of the Privy Counsel to Hen. 7. ( as Prudent a Prince as this Nation hath known ) and this Bishop as wise a Privy Counsellor as he a Prince ) continually employed either in matters of Counsel at home , or Embassies and Treaties abroad . ELY . William Longchamp Chancellor , Ann. Dom. 1189. after Chief Justice and Protector of the Realm , when K. Richard the first undertook his Journey to the Holy Land. Eustacius Chancellor , Ann. Dom. 1196. John Hotbam Chancellor , Ann. Dom. 1317. Simon Laughan , And. Dom. 1361. first Treasurer , then Chancellor of England . John Barnet Treasurer , A. D. 1366. John Fordham Treasurer , Ann. Dom. 1385. William Gray Treasurer , Ann. Dom. 1469. John Alcock Chancellor , Ann. Dom. 1486 : And Thomas Goodrick Chancellor under Edw. 6. LINCOLN . Robert Bleuet Chancellor under the Conqueror , Ann. 1092. Alexander under K. Henry the I. Lord Chief Justice of England . Galfridus Chancellour , A. D. 1180. Hugh de Wells Chancellour . Ann. Dom. 1209. Walter de Constantiis Chancellour under Hen. 6. and Dr. Williams Dean of Westminster , and after Bishop of this See made Lord Keeper by the Learned K. James . COVENTRY and LICHFIELD . Roger de Wiseman Keeper of the Great Seal , Ann. Dom. 1245. William de Langton Treasurer , Ann. Dom. 1226. Roger Northbrough Clerk of the Wardrope , afterwards Treasurer , Ann. Dom. 1322. Geoffrey Blyth Lord President of Wales , Ann. Dom. 1513. Rowland Lee his Successor in the same Office , Ann. D. 1535. Richard Sampson in the same , Ann. Dom. 1537. William Smith Founder of Brazen-Nose Colledge Oxon ; in the same under Hen. 8. SARUM . Osmond Chancellor of England , always of the Privy Council , and seldom separated from the Court , under the Conqueror . Roger Chancellor , 1107. and under K. Stephen , Ann. Dom. 1136. John Waltham Master of the Rools , Keeper of the Privy Seal , and after Treasurer of England under Richard the II. Nicolas Bubwith Treasurer , Ann. Dom. 1407. William Ayscoth Clerk of the Counsel , Ann. Dom. 1438. BATH and WELLS . Robert Burnet first Lord Treasurer then Chancellour of England , and always of the Council under Edw. I. John Drokensford Keeper of the Wardrope , Ann. 1309. Robert Stillington first Keeper of the Privy Seal , then Chancellour , Ann. Dom. 1465. Oliver King Principal Secretary of State , 1492. John Clark Master of the Rolls , A. D. 1523. EXETER . Leofricus first one of the Privy Counsel , then Chancellour of England , under the Conqueror , though Sir Henry Spelman reckons him of Bath at that time , and possibly he might be of both . William Brewster of the Privy Counsel under Henry the 3. Walter Stapledon Founder of Exon Colledge Oxon first of the Privy Counsel , then Treasurer under Edw. 2. John Grandesson Privy Counsellor to Edw. 3. John Voysey Lord President of Wales under Hen. 8. Gervase Babington Vice Precident of Wales , A. 1597. NORWICH . Hen. 2. by a special Commission makes the Bishops of Norwich , Winchester , and Ely , Lord Chief Justices of England in my Authors words , Radalphus de Diceto , Archi Justitiarios Angliae , who there adds , Clergymen were pitched upon by the Kings for this employment , rather than others , for that they were the likeliest persons not to oppress the poor , nor to respect the face of the Rich. John Salmon Chancellour , A. D. 1319. Robert Baldock Chancellour , An. Dom. 1324. John Wakering Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal , A. D. 1416. HEREFORD . Thomas Cantelupe Chancellour , A. D. 1275. Thomas Charlton Lord Treasurer , 1329. John Gilbert in the same employment , 1386. Thomas Melling of the Privy Counsel to Edw. 4. Charles Booth Chancellour of the Marches of Wales , Ann. Dom. 1517. WORCESTER . Galfridus Giffard Lord Chancellour of England Ann. Dom. 1267. Walter Reynold first Treasurer then Chancellour of England under King Edw. 2. John Bar●●s Lord Treasurer Ann. Dom. 1362. Henry Wakefield Treasurer , An. Dom. 1376. Nicholas Heath Lord President of Wales and Chancellor of England under Queen Mary . CHICHESTER . Ralph Nevil Chancellor of England , Ann. Dom. 1222. But Sir Henry Spelman reckons it 1226. who saith he was appointed to that Employment by Parliament . John de Langton Chancellor under Edw. 1. and 2. John Stratford Lord Chancellor Ann. Dom. 1360. Adam Molins Clerk of the Privy Council , Ann. Dom. 1451. And that very Learned Prelate and industrious Preacher Lancelot Andrews Privy Councellor of England and Scotland , under a Prince who knew the worth of Learning , and advanced it accordingly . ROCHESTER . Walter de Merton Founder of that Colledge that bears his name in Oxon , Lord Chancellor of England , Ann. Dom. 1274. John de Shepey Lord Treasurer , Ann. Dom. 1358. OXFORD . Hugh Curwyn Lord Chancellor of Ireland . St. DAVIDS . Adam de Houghton Lord Chancellor of England , Ann. Dom. 1376. Lindwood the famous Canonist Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal , Ann. Dom. 1440 , and a person much employed in Embassies to the King of Spain , Portugal , &c. I might here add several Deans and Arch-Deacons promoted to the same and like Dignities , and with industrious Mr. Stow , take notice that till the dissolution of Abbies and Monasteries , the Prior of Christ Church in London was ever a Member of the Court of Aldermen ; and that the Dean of Westminster is by his Charter allowed no small interest in the Government of that Neighbouring City . But I shall not nauseate the Reader any longer with the repetition of any more antient names , but observe ( as others have done before me ) that in the Catalogue of Chancellors Recorded in Spelmans Glossery , amounting to about 170 , near a 100 of them were Clergymen , more than all the other Professions put together can make up . These then are the Honours which ( if any humane Testimony can make a thing certain by an uninterrupted Custome ( equal to Law ) which Wise Antiquity in the best of times gave them , through all the Saxon , Danes , and Norman times , without Controul and Dispute till within these 40 years or thereabout , since which England hath groaned under the very great sin of Dispiseing the Embassadors of Christ , and with some it hath been no small step to preferment to rail at them , to murmure at , and decry their advancements for secular ends of their own , yea to rank the great Trustees of Souls with the vilest Peasants in the Nation ; as if there were no better way to shew their Love to their Redeemer , and their own Christianity , than by hatred to his Servants who conveyed it to them ; as if men had no other way to manifest their respects to the Majesty of the great God , but by powring out contempt and obloquy upon those who represent his Person . And thus Corah and his accomplices great complaint and grievance against Moses and Aaron was , That they were too high , took too much upon them , Numb . 16. They were advanced and honoured above the rest , this was the main Eye-sore , but the revengeing hand of God would not then bear it . Nay have we not here in England dureing our late and unhappy troubles , heard such Language as this ( nay have we not seen the thing reduced into practise ? ) All the Congregation is Holy , and one may Preach as well as another : Thus would these Sons of Confusion have brought upon us a Munster Confusion and Disorder , by taking away the Distinctions of Callings . The Wise God ( we know ) appointed it otherwise under the Old Testament , when every one we know was not admitted to the Priesthood . We cannot but think , that there were 1000 in Israel who knew how to kill , slay , and dress a Sheep , Ox , or Goat , as artificially as the Sons of Levi , yet none ever attempted it in reference to the Altar without a severe rebuke . And was Moses a more Prudent Lawgiver or Steward of Gods house than Jesus Christ the Wisdom of the Father ? Would it be fuffered in humane Societies , in any well regulated Corporation that every man who should conceive himself fitter to discharge an Office , manage a Trade , Husband an Estate , should presently exclude another legally possest of it , and invade his propertys ? grant this , and farewell Government , and welcome Babel . Let me say it once for all , ' t is folly for any to expect the prosperity of the Nation , whilst the Clergy of it is in Misery , a Low and Despicable Condition , whilst the sacred Function is deposed , nay with black ingratitude revil'd ; to whose learned labours do we owe the Translation of our Bibles , and who , ( as before once was intimated ) under God were the principal Instruments of delivering us from that Egyptian Darkness our Forefathers sate in : Is not this like the Deer we Read of in Plutarch , who browsed on that Bush in a Calm he was glad to creep under in a Storm ? Certainly they are not worthy the Name of Christians or Friends of the Gospel ( whatever their pretences may be ) that despise and vilifie the Ministry , than which , nothing more bespeaks a vile and reprobate Heart . We all know that under the Law presumptuously to rise against the Priest was punishable with no less than Death , Deut. 17. for these are the Embassadors of the King of Heaven , and how sacred such persons were esteemed by the Laws of all Nations , all Histories do abundantly Witness : 't was the shame of our Neighbour Nation of Scotland , the Murder of the late learned Prelate there , and that small indignities offered to persons of his Rank have been highly resented ; the Ammonites are a lasting testimony in the days of King David , and prood Corinth was for no other reason burnt to ashes by the enraged Romans , Florus . CHAP. VI. The Antient Estate of our Bishops and Clergy under the times of the Britains , Saxons , Danes and Normans . VVHat incouragement the Clergy found in the times of the Britons will appear to have been very great if we will but read Arch Bishop Usher de Primordiis Ecclesiae Britanicae , through the Series and Succession of Kings , who when Converted to the Christian Faith , were not scanty in Conferring Honours and Riches upon them : See him in his Sixth Chapter under these Respective Heads , Antiquitatis Glastoniensis Ecclesiae assertio & nova ab Ina rege instauratio . Privilegia varia eidem a Saxonibus Regibus . Arthur . donatio & Sepulchri inventio , Hen. 2. & Edw. 3. Diplomata . Possesiones & libertates Ecclesiis a Lucio Rege Tributae . Wintoniensis Ecclesiae libertates & Antiquitates . Fundatio Ecclesiae Sancti Petri Westmonasteriensis . B. Marcae Doveriensis & Sancti Martini Cantuariensis . Afterwards in his 7th Chapter , De pace Britanici Ecclesiis post caeptam persecutionem Constantio Chloro , Aug. Constant . M. patre restituta . And afterwards in his 8th Chapter of the British Bishops , Qui variis consiliis interfuerunt , Concilio Arelatensi , Sardicensi & Ariminenst ; where any persons may receive satisfaction of the Clergy Honour in those first British times . In the times of the Saxons what their immunities were will appear if we instance in but one single one , as more eminent and glorious than the rest ( viz. ) Their Admission to all Publick Debates and Assemblies . Such were ( 1 ) their Scire Gemotis , which Spelman and other Learned Antiquaries resemble to our Country Courts , and Sheriffs turn in which all causes both Criminal and Civil , concerning Church or State were handled ; the persons bound to be present were the Sheriff , the Bishop and all the Nobles of the County ; till at last upon their humble Petition in Parliament , the Clergy were dispensed with by the Statute of Marleborough , 52 Edw. 3. unless urgent necessity required it . Secondly , their Folk Gemotts a kind of Annual Parliament commonly held in the beginning of May , in which the Princes of the Kingdom , Bishops , and Magistrates , and the Laity took the Oath of Allegiance , and confirmed their mutual Union before the Bishops . The Original of this is intimated to be as high as King Arthur , Vid. Leg. Edw. Confess . 35. Thirdly , their Wittena Gemotts , or Michel Synoth , the grand Convention of their Wise men . These who desires to look farther into , may have recourse to Spelmans laborious Glossary , V. Gemot . Now out of none of these were the Clergy excluded , but ever reckoned an eminent and principal part of each , their Counsels Votes and Approbation demanded and given before any Laws were constituted . For Proof of this , we shall look back above 1000 years to the Laws of King Ethelbert , and the Authors we shall produce , and on whose Authority we lean are Bede , Spelman , and Lambard . And as to King Ethelbert presently after the arrival of Austin the Monk here in England , we find as Spelman hath it in Spelm. Conc. 126. The King to have called a grand Assemby , A. 605. Tam cleri quam populi . In the Laws of King Ina , which Florentius Wigorniensis dates , Ann. Dom. 686. Spelm. 692. Lambert 712. we find these Laws were made and wrote by the perswasion and advice of his Bishops Hedda and Erkenwald ; and though the Learned Spelman Excerps out of the body of those Laws only those which more particularly relate to the Church , as being only proper for this design , yet Lambard mentions many Civil matters there determined . And when the great League and Union between the Britons , Saxons and Picts was concluded , we find it Ratified per Commune Concilium & assensium omnium Episcoporum , Procerum , Comitum & omnium sapientum seniorum & populorum & per preceptum regis Inae . The very manner of our passing Laws in Parliament now used in England , Bed. Eccles . Histor . l. 1. In the Laws of King Athelstan about the year 924. ( Spelm. 922 ) there 's no mention of any other Counsellors for the enacting , though certainly the form was the same , but his Arch Bishop Ufhelme and his other Bishops , and these were at least the prime persons there , though the Body of the Laws concern secular affairs . Spelman selecting only Ecclesiastical , yet in the Title he owns others passed . In the Laws of K. Edmund about 946. the King had a full meeting of Ecclesiasticks , and Laicks at London , in which were present Odo and Wulstan the Arch Bishops , none of the rest though without doubt there present once named . Again 948. to a great Convention of the Estates at London under Edred , Writs of Summons are issued out to the Arch Bishops and Bishops , and yet their agitur de negotiis Regni , Ingulph . p. 87. Spel. Conc. p. 428. Come we to the Danes , 1021. we find a Publick Assembly called at Winchester by Canutus , where were present Wulstan and Adelholme the Arch Bishops with other Bishops Dukes and Earls , &c. Spelm. Conc. p. 534. Now dureing these two Periods there 's no mention of Baronies , but all the Churches tenure was in Pura Eleemosyna , Frank Almoigne and the Bishops sate onely as eminent Prelates by vertue of their Spiritual Dignities ; for there being hardly any Laws but some way or other concerning Religion , and the good of Souls : therefore in the enacting of them the Cergy was ever required by our Prudent Ancestors . Thus much for the Grand Assemblys , stiled usually by the Learned Knight Sir Henry Spelman Pan Anglica and Pan Britanica . We will only mention the Private Statute of King Edgar which was thus , ex omni comitatu bis quotannis conventus agitur cui quidem illius Diocaesae Episcopus & Senator intersunto , quorum alter jura divina alter populum edoceto . Nor doth Mr. Selden no friend of the Clergy ever deny or question but the Bishop was joyned in Commission with the Aarlderman , nay he expresly affirms the same Titles of Honour , l. 2. c. 5. Hitherto of the British , Saxon , Danish Governments , pass we down to the Normans , and here we have King William solemnly with an Oath ratifying the Laws of St. Edw. the Confessor , and this particularly is added . Si quis sanctae Ecclesiae pacem infregerit Episcoporum est Justitia , Lambard , p. 139. And in several Old Precidents of Grants such Clauses as these Occur , Nolumus quod libertas Ecclesiae per nos vel ministros nostros quoscunque aliqualiter violetur & jura & ilbertates Ecclesiasticas illaesas volentes in omnibus observari . Yet more particularly in a Charter to the Church of St. Pauls in London , Tam liberam volumus Ecclesiam , D. Pauli London , quam sit anima mea in die Judicii . And here now at last we come to that great change in the State Ecclesiastick , the Bishops who had ever enjoyed the privileges of Majores Thani among the Saxons are translated to Barons , which gave occasion to that groundless error of some , to date the first sitting in Parliament hence , as if the Conquerour to curry favour with the Clergy , and the better to settle his new gotten Kingdom , confered this Honour upon them ; But certainly if there were truth in this , the Clergy are much to blaim , and very ungrateful to their Patron K. William , for that we find them loosers by his favours , and looked upon their Condition under him much worse than before , and all the Writers of that Age must be corrected for representing him , as a perfect Enemy of the Church . To clear up this we will only give you one Instance , cited from an Old Record , Entituled , Liber Sancti Albani . Where we read this Passage of Frederick the then Abbot of St. Albans , that to obstruct the March of the Conquerour , he caused all the Trees round to be cut , and laid them cross the ways , wherewith the Conquerour being stopt in his march sent in some passion for the Abbot , who under his security coming to him , the Conquerour demands the Reason for the cutting down the Woods , the Abbot resolutely answers him , that I have done , but what became me , and if all the Spiritual Persons through the Kingdom had used their Endeavours against thee , as they might and were in duty bound to have done , Thou wouldst never have been able to have entered the Land thus far . The Duke then replying , Is the Spiritualty of England of such Power ? if I live and enjoy that , which I have gotten , I will make their Power less . Add to this that stategem of the Kentishmen in surrounding the King , and forcing him to a Composition , which they did under the Conduct of Stigand their Arch-Bishop , which thing ever after netled him , and that he was never heartily reconciled to the Church . and proved afterwards as good as his word to the Abbot , oppressing the Clergy all his Reign , bringing them under Knights-Service , and Ordering how many Souldiers each Bishop should maintain for him and his Successors : the Church , as beforesaid , being ever free from that bondage . Let no Man then say , that the Conqueror ( who was ever look'd upon by the Bishops as their Enemy ) did them any Acts of Grace or Havour by erecting each Bishoprick into a Barony , which thing was ever by the Bishops look'd upon as a grievance , and a more glorious piece of slavery . This was in deed a shrew'd shaking to the Bishops , yet still they preserv'd their Votes in all Assembli●s , and Parliamentary Summons are ever directed Archiep. Ep. &c : all antient Charters and Grants subscribed after the usual Form in those times , Testibus Archiep. Ep. In a Treatise Entituled , The Form and Mannor of keeping Parliaments , whereof it seems there are two very antient Copies , the M. S. in Arch Bods , the other in Sr. Rober Cottons Library , the first of which was perused by Mr. Selden , and he allows it to be as long standing , as Edw. 3d. but the Lord Chief Justice Cooke adds near 200 years more , and raises it to the Conqueror's time ( which the Title indeed pleads for ) we are here told , that 40 days before Summons are to be issued out to the Archbishops , Bishops , and other great Clarks , that held by County or Barony , and that the Clergy in each Shire are to have Two Proctors representing them , which in some things had more Power than the Bishops , for we are there informed , that the K. may hold a Parliament for the Commonalty of the Realm , without Bishops , Earls , or Barons , so they had summons , though they come not , but on the cottrary , if the Commonalty of the Clergy and Temporalty being warned , either doth not , or will not come , in this Case whatever the King doth with his Bishops , Earls and Barons is of none effect , for that to all Acts of Necessity the Commonalty of Parliament must consent , i. e. the Proctors of the Clergy , Knights of the Shire , Citizens and Burgess●s , for their Persons represent the Commonalty of England , but the Bishops , Earls , and Barons represent only their own Persons . There is , they say , another M. S. in Bibl. Cotton , confirming the same , and citing other large Priviledges of the Clergy , I know indeed Mr. Prinne hath questioned the Authority of both these books , in Bar of which I return the Authority of Cooke and Selden , and particularly the first , who saith , in his Institutes , that 26 Spiritual persons ought ex debito Justitiae , to have a Writ of Summons sent them every Parliament . These things premised , we will now desire of the Clergies greatest adversary that he would produce instances of any solemn meetings , Wittena gemots or Parliaments whereunto the Clergy were not summoned ; any Statutes publickly enacted during all the Christian British , Saxon , Danish , or Norman times , without their assistance and advice . As for the precedent of their Exclusion under Edw. 1. at the Parliament held at St. Edmondsbury , which some triumph in , if there be any truth in the Narrative ( as hath been , and is still , questioned ) we know , and can prove , 't was done in a pett and transport of Royal displeasure for their too obstinate adhering to the Bishop of Rome in the Scottish quarrel , and for their noncompliance with their Kings demands . Who yet the very next Parliament , about a year after , makes an Apology for this charging all upon the Exigencies of his affairs . And why should this single instance so circumstantiated be urged more against the Clergy than that other is against the Lawyers who were shut out of a Parliament under Henr. IV. where we yet find the Bishops and amongst others , Thomas Arundel stoutly resisting and preserving the Clergies Temporalities , which these Church-robbers gaped after , who , so they might spare their own Purses were content to spoil their God to relieve their King. Certainly if envy it self could have found the least colour of Law to deny them this privilege it had never been reserved for this last , and our most unhappy age . Many times have they been struck at , many great blows have they received , as at Clarendon , under Henr. II. where their wings were indeed much clipt , yet their privilege of sitting and voting in Parliament is left entire to to them for that the words are Episcopi intersint Curiae Domini Regis cum Baronibus quousque perveniatur ad diminutionem membrorum vel mortem , and though they never voted of late in Capital Causes , yet that they however made their Proxies I hope shall be made appear by what follows , together with their forbearing to vote in Capital Causes , and the reason of it shall be farther discoursed of . CHAP. VII . The Estate of the Bishops and Clergy from the Conquest ( as to their Voting in Capital Causes in Parliament ) till the times of King Henr. VIII . VVE have before intimated the common usages and rights of the Bishops to sit and vote in Parliaments in all antient times , and that as Peers and Barons of the Realm , we now aver they have a Power to sit and vote in all , as well Criminal as otherwise , either by themselves or Proxies lawfully constituted , which is a privilege of the Peerage , and therefore , belongs to the Bishops as such , 't is very well known what Mr. Selden hath wrote in his Book of The Privileges of the Peerage of England , that the Bishops was debarred of their privileges by an Act of Parliament 17 Car. I. Ann. 1641. and that he was a great notorious stickler in it , but 't is as notorious that not long after we find the Commons , nay a small and inconsiderable part of that House , voting the Temporal Lords useless and dangerous , and that how they were enabled by being assisted by the help of Cromwell the late Usurper , and the Army , to accomplish what they had begun , and the bad consequence of all we have seen with our eyes , and Bishops God be thanked restored to their undoubted Rights and Privileges , and that for as much as they were equally Barons ( nay the Bishops had usually the first in Summons ) they have also equal privileges to make their Proxies in Parliament as the Temporal Barons had , we confess , as before , for that they were Spiritual persons they were not by the Council of Clarendon to sit in Capital Causes , and loss of limb , but then we must know that long before this they both had and exercised this Power , as may be made appear out of John Crampton's Chron. c. 24. where amongst the Laws of Athelstane we read , Episcopo jure pertinet omnem rectitudinem promovere Dei ( viz. ) & saeculi & debent Episcopi cum saeculi judicibus interesse judiciis , and the ordering of all the Measures and Weights is there made of Episcopal cognizance the Standard being still left in the Bishops hands , and out of Sir Henry Spelman's Glossary , voce Comes . Comes praesidebat foro comitatus non solus sed junctus Episcopo , ut alter alteri auxilio esset & consilio , praesertim Episcopus Comiti nam in hunc illi animadvertere saepe licuit & errantem cohibere , so much confidence did the Antients repose in the Clergy that the guidance and overseeing of most temporal affairs was entrusted to them , nay , they had a check upon the Laity . And thus lovingly with all sweetness and candor for 4 or 500 years , during all the Saxons times and till that unhappy division by the Conquerour , who defaced this beautiful and regular composure did the Church and State-Officers sit together in the morning determining Ecclesiastical affairs , and in the afternoon Civil . There were then no jars or clashings of jurisdictions heard of , no prohihitions issuing out of one Court to obstruct the course of Justice in another ; thereby hampering the poor Client that he knew not which way to turn himself ; and I am perswaded there is no better expedient to prevent lasting vexatious suits , and to relieve the oppressed , than again to reconcile these two jurisdictions , that according to the primitive usage as well Spiritual as Temporal Judges may be appointed in all Courts , that Moses and Aaron may not interfere and quarrel , but walk hand in hand . Though I know this design does not rellish with many of the Long Robe , yet 't is feared that attempting some such thing purchased the late Archbishop Laud no few enemies and was one especial cause of hastening his ruine : yet we find Mr. Selden a Lawyer too , lib. 2. de Synedriis , proving that for the first 4000 years and better the Civil and Ecclesiastical Courts continued united , and the first distinction proceeded from Pope Nicholas , Gratian. Distinct . 96. c. cum ad verum , and that the Clergy do not meddle personally to vote in loss of life or limb proceeds from the Canons of the antient Church which forbad their presence in cases of blood , but I hope that no sober man will hence argue that they being Barons of this Realm they must lose their Priviledges which belong to the Spiritual Lords as well as to the Temporal ; viz. To make Proxies though in Capital Causes ( when by the antient Canons of the Church they are forbid to be present , ) which they have done , and still have right to doe comes next to be discoursed of . And ( first ) I shall make use of Mr. Selden's authority , though no friend to the Bishops , ( for reasons he best knew of ) who expressly saith in his Book of the Priviledges of the Barons of England , Printed 1642. that omnes Praelati , Magnates , &c. has this Priviledge . Introduct . Though he says there they had lost it by the Parliament 17 Car. 1. 1641. I hope now they are restored to it again , that they had before he gives you sundry instances Cap. 1. these are his words § 2. That the course of Elder time was not that Barons onely made Proxies but other men , as Bishops , and Parliamentary Abbots , and Priors , who gave their Letters usually to Parsons , Prebendaries , and Canonists . In the Parliament of Carlisle under Edw. 1. the Bishop of Exeter sent to the Parliament Henry de Pynkney Parson of Houghton as his Proxy . The Bishop of Bath and Wells sent William of Cherlton a Canon of his Church , and in like sort other of the Spiritualty of that time , in the beginning of the 17th year of King Richard the Second the Bishop of Norwich made Richard Corqueaux being then Deane of the Arches , Thomas Hederset being Archdeacon of Sudbury and John Thorp Parson of Epingham his Proxies by the name of Procuratores sive Nuntii , and in the same time the Bishop of Durham ' s Proxies were John Burton Canon of Bewdley , and Master of the Rolls and John of Wendlingborough Canon of London , and other like in the same time . By which also that of the preamble of the Statute of Praemunire is understood , where it is said that the advice of the Lords Spiritual that was present and of the Procurators of them that were absent , was demanded . The like under Henry the 4th and 5th , are found in the Rolls , and under Henr. 5. the Archbishop of York gives the Proxies to the Bishop of Durham , and to two other Clerks of his Province . Nay farther , that the Bishops used to give their Proxies in Cases of Attainder , the said Mr. Selden expresly saith in the place forecited , and also what sort of persons they used to make their Proxies , he there likewise tells you , adding withal this unhandsom reflexion , That the Lords Spiritual had so much mistaken of late the Laws of the Kingdom , and the Original of their own Honours by endeavouring to enlarge the Kingdom of Antichrist , that they had now ( he means , A. D. 42 ) lost both Priviledge and Vote in Parliament . All sharp , Reply to which I shall purposely forbear . And secondly , proceed to shew you express Precedents wherein they have Voted either Personally , or by Proxies in Capital Causes , and here I will produce Mr. Selden himself , the Bishops adversary become their advocate , who saith expressly p. 125. lib. cit . That though in the Case of Appeal of Treason in a Parliament of the 11 of Richard the Second , commenced by Thomas Duke of Gloucester and others against Alexander Archbishop of York , Robert de Vere , &c. they absented themselves , I mean , the whole Spiritualty in that Parliament , and would make no Proxy in their room for that time , yet afterwards they agreed to do it in Cases of Judgments of Death , Rot Parl. 2. Henr. 4. & Rot. Parl. 2. Henr. 5. But he there saith , that the first use of such Proxies was 21 Ric. 2. so that we have him confessing the Bishops sitting in cases of blood by their Proxies , the next authority I shall make use of , is a Parliament Roll it self , of that year as I find it in Sir Robert Cotton's Collections intituled as followeth . Placita Coronae coram Domino Rege in Parliamento suo apud Wegmonast . diae Lunae proximae post Festum Exaltationis Sanctae Crucis Anno regni Regis Ric. 2. Post Conquestum 21. The Roll it self you may see in the Tower among the Records there kept . It is of an Impeachment of the Earl of Arundel and Warr. &c. for Treason , &c. the Articles were exhibited against him by several Lords , as Edward Earl of Rutland , Thomas Earl of Kent , John Earl of Huntington , &c. which the said Lords were ready to prove the Crimes objected , and demanded the Prisoner to be brought to the Bar , which the Lord Nevil then Constable of the Tower did , and the aforesaid Lords in their own Persons appeared also . His Articles being read , the Earl of Lancaster Lord Steward of England by the King's commandment , and assent of the Lords , declares the whole matter . And thereupon the said Earl's answer to the Articles was demanded , who pleaded two Pardons , and prayeth they may be allowed , but they were not , whereupon Sir Walter Clopton Lord Chief Justice demands of him what he had farther to say , for that if nothing more to say the Law would adjudge him guilty . And the said Earl not pleading any thing else , the Lords Appellants in their proper persons require that Judgment may be given against the said Earl , as Convict of the Treason aforesaid . Whereupon the Lord Steward of England , by the assent of the King , Bishops and Lords , adjudged the said Earl Guilty and Convict of all the Articles aforesaid , and thereby a Traitor to the King and Realm , and that he should be therefore Hanged , Drawn , and Quartered , and forfeit all his Lands in fee , &c. though the Punishment , in regard he was of Noble Blood , was changed , and he was ordered to be Beheaded ; which was done by the Lieutenant of the Tower , and this is a short account of that Trial for Blood in Parliament . Where 't is plain and evident that the Bishops were there present , for 't is said , that the said Earl was adjudged Guilty and Convict by the assent of the King , Bishops and Lords . Q. E. D. Next we will produce another Instance and Precedent of the Condemnation of Thomas Arundel Archbishop of Canterbury , who was accused by the Commons in full Parliament , die & loco praedictis , where we find the Commons by their Speaker Sir John Bussy Petitioning the K. in manner following . For that divers Judgments were heretofore undone , for that the Clergy were not present , the Commons prayed the King that the Clergy would appoint some to be their common Proctor with sufficient authority thereunto . Whereupon the Clergy appoint Thomas de la Percy by their Instrument their Proctor , who together with the King and the said Lords adjudged him the said Archbishop guilty of Treason , and himself a Traitor . The Crimes objected to him was his traiterous obtaining a Commission from the King , whereby the Kings Royal Power was encroached , his Subjects put to death without Royal Assent , &c. for all which he was found guilty as aforesaid . What I observe in brief is this , from this Trial. ( 1. ) That there had been divers Errors in Judgment , which Judgments were in Law void , for that the Bishops were not present , ( 2. ) That hereupon the Commons Petitioned the King that the Bishops would appoint their Proxy , and which accordingly they did Thomas de la Percy . ( 3. ) He was Condemned by the said Court wherein sate Percy accordingly . ( 4. ) That the said Bishops did not Vote there personally , for that the Arch-bishop their Primate was Arraigned and it might not be seemly for them so to do . And here we have the Case adjudged , Judgments in Parliament Revers'd , for that the Bishops were not Present by themselves or Proxys , the Commons Petitioning the King that they would make Proxys , a Judgment obtained for that the Bishops had made their Proxys . Q. E. D. And if any be not satisfied , they may see the Roll of Parliament as before , among the Records in the Tower to which they are Referred . Furthermore to make another discovery of the Inconstancy of the said Mr. Selden , I find him in his Titles of Honour in the latter end of his Book , Confessing that Thomas Becket Arch-bishop of Canterbury was Condemned by the Bishop of Winchester in Case of High Treason , Vid. Titles of Honour . And if any person would but a little reflect upon the Reason , why the Bishops have not sometimes Voted in Cases of Blood but by their Proxies ? ( viz. ) Their respect they had to the Canons of the Primitive Church , which might give them umbrage for their so doing : And together with this , what hath been said before , of their being frequently appointed by the King , and acting as Lord Chief Justices of England , any person of an ordinary Capacity may guess at the Reason of their forbearing to Judge in Matters of Blood for the Reason aforesaid , and their ready and chearfull compliance with their Princes Command ; when by the Law of this Land they were enabled so to do , and which is a sufficient Supersedeas to the former Canon of the Church . Another Precedent we have of the Bishops Personally sitting in Parliament held at Westminster on Monday next after the Feast of All Saints , in the 3d , of Hen. 5. wherein Henry Bishop of Winton was Chancellour , wherein was Tryed Richard Earl of Cambridge and others for Treason , for having Levyed men against the King , and procured Edmund Earl of March as Heir to Rich. 2. to take upon him to be King of England , and had Proclaimed him such in Wales , and set one Thomas Trompington an Ideot and Scotchman to Personate Rich. 2. where the said Earl , and others his adherents in that Action , were Tryed and found Guilty ; the Lords Spiritual in Parliament being Present , &c. See the Records in the Tower , Parl. 3. H. 5. p. 2. M. 4. Many other Precedents of a later Date and Time might be here Ex superabundanti added , but I shall referr them for the matter of another Chapter , they being all of them taken out of the Journals of the Lords House beginning in 32 Hen. 8. and ending 29. Eliz. 2. I might have enlarged in these which I have taken out of the Tower , but I have purposely forborn to do it ; for that I find Mr. Selden himself in the days of 1642. granting me the Matter of Fact as clear and evident from the Ancient Records in the Tower , of the Spiritual Lords Priviledges in this Matter . And will now proceed to another Argument that the Bishops have Right to sit in all Cases as well Capital as Civil . For that ( 4. ) they are undoubted Peers of the Realm ; which also I find Mr. Selden himself granting in his Priviledges of the Barronage of England , p. 192. For there he saith , Though some have doubted ( we know whom he means ) whether the Spiritual Barons are Peers , he saith there , that they are so , is true and plain , and the Testimonies many & various , as in the Bishop of Winchester ' s Case , who departed from the Parliament at Salisbury about the beginning of Edw. 3. and was questioned for it afterwards in the Kings Bench he pleaded to the Declaration , Quod ipse est unus e Paribus Regni & Prelatus , and in that short Disputation of the Case , which is left in the Year Books ; he is supposed both by the Court and Council to be a Peer . But for this if his Authority be not good , the Year Books themselves may be seen . Bishop of Winchesters Case , Year Book , 3 of Edw. 3. And Pas . 3. Edw. 3. coram Rege Rot. 9. Rep. So afterwards see the Bishop of Londons Case in the Year Book , 3 Edw. 3. in a Writ of Wards brought against the Bishop of London ; he pleaded to Issue , and the Defendant could not have a day of Grace ; for he said ( as the words of the Books are ) That a Bishop is a Peer of the Land , & Haec erat causa , Year Book , 3 Edw. 3. fol. 186. pl. 28. And in a like Case , an Action of Trespass against the Abbot of Abington who was one of the Lords Spiritual , day of Grace was denyed against him , because he was Peer de la terre , 13 Edw. 3. Titulo Enquest . So expresly upon a question of having a Knight returned into a Jury where a Bishop was Defendant ; the Rule of the Court was that it ought to be so , because the Bishop was a Peer of the Realm , Plowden Comment . pl. 117. So the Judgment given against the Bishop of Norwich in the time of Rich. 2. he is in the Roll expresly allowed to be a Peer . We find also Stafford Arch Bishop of Canterbury upon his being excluded the Parliament under Edw. 3 , thus challenging his place , Ego tanquam major par Regni post Regem vocem habens jurae Ecclesiae meae tantum vendico , & ideo ingressum in Parlimentum peto . The same may be made out farther by an Assignment of Errors under Hen. 5. for the revearsal of the Attainder of the Earl of Salisbury , one Error is Assigned that Judgment was given without the Assent of the Prelates which were Peers in Parliament , which is clearly allowed in the Roll and Petition too , that they were Peers . So also in an Act of Parliament under the same King , Sta● . 4. Hen. 5. c. 6. where the Arch-Bishops and Bishops are called Peers of the Kingdom . But of the truth of this Mr. Selden himself saith , That no scruple could ever be made till the unhappy Act of the 17 Car. 1641. And how that Act was procured we all know , How full of tumults and uproars were those Times ? to how great a distress was Majesty then brought ? How many Repulses did it meet with ? Was it not Past to serve the present Interest ? and by what subtile contrivance was it at last carried it is very well known ? Have we not reckoned the Date of our late Embroilments and wild Confusions from this fatal Apocha ? Under what Miseries , Violencies , and Rapins hath not our native Country for 20 years time from hence to be reckoned , with so much pitty from all true-hearted English-men long laboured and groaned ? and the whole Christian-world about us stood amazed and agasht . All the Wealth which the Piety of our Forefathers had been so many years in heaping up , all their Priviledges which their prudence had so deliberately conferred , being in a few days Passion swallowed up . Had those good men , the then Bishops , unadvisedly acted any thing against their Prince or Kingdom , could no Personal-fine or punishment expiate their Crime and fault ? must the whole Order be raized , and Episcopacy it self destroyed root and branch ? must so many merits of their worthy Predecessors be buryed in the grave of ungrateful Oblivion ? It were an easy matter to produce a large Catalogue of eminent Prelates , who by their prudent advice have oftentimes prevented Bloodshed , preserved Peace , saved a sinking Kingdom and a dying Religion , many good works have they done amongst us , many Colledges and Schools erected and endowed , many material Churches by their munificence , and living Temples of the Holy Ghost built by their Ministry ; and for which of these must they now be thus dealt withal ? thus disfranchised ? That they who heretofore carried the principal stroke in all Cabinet Counsels and publick Diets , are acknowledged in several recorded Statutes of this Kingdom , an high , and one of the greatest Estates of this Kingdom , as particularly 8 Eliz. c. 1. that they are Peers of this Realm , 25 Edw. 3. c. 6. before recited , and 4 Henr. 5. c. 6. must now be debarred those immunities of which our Nation hath ever reaped the greatest benefit , they must be curtailde in , or excluded from , what is their just right , to Vote as Peers in the higher House of Parliament , certainly 't is now high time , if ever , for men to relent of their merciless cruelty to to learned Industry ; the crafty Jesuite , who is now at our Doors , thinks his day is coming , this will make him keep a Jubile , to see England fall again by her own hands . How much ground hath he got by debasing and pouring contempt on our English Clergy , ( of all the World ) whom he most dreaded ? Let us but enquire of other Nations , our Neighbours , and they will tell us , That the English Divine is the terrour of the Papal - world , aud that they have wrote more , and better , against Rome , than all the World besides . We ought not to take pleasure in upbrading an ungrateful Nation : But is this the reward of their unwearied pains , incessant studies , early rising and late watching , beating their brains , wasting their bodies , and contracting incurable diseases , neglecting their families , relations , and accquaintance for the glory of God and good of their Countrey ? Must they onely have discouragements heaped upon them , bread and water , and raggs ( if some men had their will ) thought to good for them ? Must another Profession , of which a Forreiner , by way of disdain , said , Causid●●i Angli gens indoctissima ultra Doroberniam nihil sapiunt ? Must they get honour , riches and preferments without the regret and frowns of any , nay more in 60 years last past than Divinity in 600 preceding , and if the matter was not invidious I could easily make appear : 't was an old saying , Nulli sua pietas debet esse damnosa , in earnest , This is not for the honour of the Gospel , neither doth it become the Reformation . Of late years some of the Long Robe , no well wishers to the Church , whose names I forbear , have started a very unhappy and destructive notion , and not over beneficial to the English Scepter ; and there yet want not those who with much industry keep this notion up , that the three Estates of this Nation consist of King , Lords and Commons , which how far it may countenance former actings and endanger future disturbances , I humbly submit to the prudence of those who sit at the Helm , and are much better able to determine than my self ; But the consequences of that opinion seem directly to aim at the Leveling of Sovereignty , and making it accountable to the other two in their esteem Coordinate Estates . Now by restoring the Spiritualty the only true third Estate to its due Rights and antient Priviledges , for that it is the true third Estate , the Lord Chief Justice Cook saith in the Fourth of his Institutes and the Act of Parliament of the 8 of Eliz. c. 1. speaks to the same thing , this may be the most ready and most natural expedient to remove that destructive and dangerous opinion out of the minds of an unlearned and fickle multitude . So may the Crown be safe , and the Mitre no longer trampled on . Et quae Deus olim conjunxit , nemo hoc sequiori saeculo seperet , Faxit hoc Deus qui solus potis est ! CHAP. VIII . Precedents of the Bishops Sitting and Voting in Capital Causes from the Reign of of King Hen. 8. till the 29th of Eliz. I shall begin with the Attainder of Cromwel Earl of Essex , who was attainted in Parliament for Treason , &c. the Articles are every extant , and may be seen ; the first reading of his Bill , as I find it in the Journal of the Lords House was upon the 17th of June , 32. Hen. 8th , at which reading were present Fourteen Bishops ; who they were you may see in the Journal ; at the second reading , which was the 19th of June of the said year , 32. Hen. 8. were present sixteen Bishops , whose Names , and Sees there you may find ; at the third and last reading , were sixteen likewise , Vid. Journal ut supra , the Bill it self past the Royal Assent , the 24th of July following , when were 14 Bishops present . The next shall be the Attainder of Tho. Duke of Norf. and Henry Earl of Surry . 38. H. 8. This also was an Attainder in Parliament : The first reading of the Bill against these Noble Lords , was on the 18th of January , Anno Regis supra dicto , when were present ten Bishops ; the second reading , was the day following , when were present nine Bishops : The third and last reading was on the 20th of the same Moneth , when were present thirteen Bishops ; the Bill past the Royal Assent , January 27th , 38. Hen. 8. the Bishops likewise then present . The third instance of Hen. D. of Suffolk , which indeed was an Attainder at Common Law , but afterward confirm'd in Parliament . A. 1 & 2. Phil. et Mar. at the first reading were present 12 Bishops : the Bill was read , 5 Jan. Anno supradicto , at the 2d . reading , which was two days after on the 7th of January were present eleaven Bishops ; and on the next day , the Bill had its last reading in the Lords House , at which were present eleaven Bishops : the Lords Spiritual , were likewise present at the passing of the Bill ; which was on the 21 of Jan. following ; in each of these , the Journal if consulted will satisfie any . The 4th Precedent shall be in Seymore the Lord Admiral , who was attainted for Treason , in the 2d . of Edw. 6. for that he purposed to destroy the young King , and to translate the Crown unto himself ; for which , and other Crimes objected , he suffered Death , on the Tower-Hill : at his Attainder were Present nineteeen Bishops . I might have before added the Case of the Lord Hungerfords-Attainder in Parliament ; who was condemned in Parliament , in the 32. of Hen. the 8th . at whose Tryal and Condemnation , were Present no fewer than seaventeen Bishops , Vid. Journal of the Lords House , I will only add two more Precedents , and close with them ; they are in the Reign of the Peaceable Queen Elizabeth , in whose times if ever , the Actings in Parliament were regular , and orderly : the first is , the Case of the Earls of Northumberland and Westmoreland , for their Rebellion in the North , and endeavour to bring in Popery , at whose Condemnation were present thirteen Bishops , Vid. Journal , and lastly that of Pagets , in the 29th of the said Queen , at which were ten Bishops , Vid. Journal as before : I shall only add one thing more , and that is the Protestation of the Bishops . 11. R. 2 where they give the reason why they refused , to be put in some Parliaments , their words Quia in hoe Parliamento agitur de nonnullis materiis in quibus non licet nobis juxta sacrorum Canonum instituta quomodolibet personaliter interesse ; but they there add a Salvo to their right , in the beginning of their Protestation . Quod ad Archiepiscopum Cantuar. qui pro tempore fuerit , n●c non caeteros suos suffraganeos Confratres , Co-episcopos , Abbates et Priores aliosque Praelatos quoscunque Baroniam de Domino Rege t●nentes in Parliamento Regis ut Pares praed . personaliter interesse pertinet , ibidemque de regni negotiis & aliis ibi tractari consuetis cum caeteris dicti regni Paribus & aliis consulere , ordinare , statuere desinire ac caetera facere , quae Parliamenti tempore ibid. intendet facien ' , &c. t is true indeed , that as they never intended , but that the Appeals , Pursuites , Accusations , Judgements , had and rendred , &c. upon their voluntary absenting themselves ; they should be good and valid in the Law , as their Protestation expresly granteth : yet by the same their Protestation , they reserve their right of being present , &c. doing every thing else which any other Peer , though Temporal might do . And that they did Vote in the 21st of this Kings Reign , by their Proctor in the Condemnation of the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury ( Yea and upon the Commons Petition too , for that many judgments had been reversed , for that they were not present as is before proved ) and Personally also in the Condemnation of the Earl of Arandel and Wardour , &c. the Duke of Lancaster being then Lord High Steward , Vid. Plaoit . Coron &c. 21 Ric. 2. in the Records in the Tower. The Roll marked with the Letters F. I. It is well known that out of respect to the constitution made in the Council held at Westminster . that no Clergy-man should agitare Judicium Sanguinis . ( This Council is mentioned in R. Hovenden in H. 2. p. 30. ) the Clergy have some time forborn to intermeddle in such matters : and on the other side 't is as notorious , that many of that Order have been Lord Chief Justices of England , and that none have discharged that Office better , more to the Content of the King and Subject , and the Benefit of the whole Commonwealth . FINIS . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A45195-e370 Ad. Sec. 1. * Euseb . Ecc. Hist . 10. c. 7. Zom . l. 1. c. 9. Exerc. 13. c. 5. 
A07619	----	The abridgement or summarie of the Scots chronicles with a short description of their originall, from the comming of Gathelus their first progenitor out of Græcia into Egypt. And their comming into Portingall and Spaine, and of their kings and gouernours in Spaine, Ireland and Albion, now called Scotland, (howbeit the whole number are not extant) with a true chronologie of all their kings. Their reignes, deaths and burials, from Fergusius the first king of Scotland, vntill his Royall Maiestie, now happily raigning ouer all Great Brittaine and Ireland, and all the isles to them appertaining. With a true description and diuision of the whole realme of Scotland, and of the principall cities, townes, abbies, fortes, castles, towers and riuers, and of the commodities in euery part thereof, and of the isles in generall, with a memoriall of the most rare and wonderfull things in Scotland. By Iohn Monipennie. Monipennie, John. 1612 Approx. 255 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 65 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2003-07 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A07619 STC 18014 99899031 99899031 15691 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A07619) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 1569) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 996:12, 1999:11) The abridgement or summarie of the Scots chronicles with a short description of their originall, from the comming of Gathelus their first progenitor out of Græcia into Egypt. And their comming into Portingall and Spaine, and of their kings and gouernours in Spaine, Ireland and Albion, now called Scotland, (howbeit the whole number are not extant) with a true chronologie of all their kings. Their reignes, deaths and burials, from Fergusius the first king of Scotland, vntill his Royall Maiestie, now happily raigning ouer all Great Brittaine and Ireland, and all the isles to them appertaining. With a true description and diuision of the whole realme of Scotland, and of the principall cities, townes, abbies, fortes, castles, towers and riuers, and of the commodities in euery part thereof, and of the isles in generall, with a memoriall of the most rare and wonderfull things in Scotland. By Iohn Monipennie. Monipennie, John. [4], 100, [20] p. Printed at Brittaines Bursse by Iohn Budge [and Simon Stafford], [London] : 1612. "A short description of the vvesterne iles of Scotland .." (caption title) has separate register, and colophon reading: Printed at London by Simon Stafford. Some copies have the imprint date altered by hand to 1614. Copy at reel 996:12 has altered date. Reproductions of originals in: Harvard University Library (reel 996:12) and Henry E. Huntington Library and Art Gallery (reel 1999:11). Imperfect: reproduction on reel 1999:11 lacks all after p. 100. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. 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Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor. The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines. Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Nobility -- Scotland -- Early works to 1800. Scotland -- Kings and rulers -- Early works to 1800. Scotland -- Description and travel -- Early works to 1800. Scotland -- History -- Early works to 1800. Hebrides (Scotland) -- Description and travel -- Early works to 1800. 2003-02 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2003-03 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2003-04 Olivia Bottum Sampled and proofread 2003-04 Olivia Bottum Text and markup reviewed and edited 2003-06 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion The abridgement or Summarie of the Scots Chronicles , with a short description of their originall , from the comming of GATHELVS their first Progenitor out of Graecia into Egypt . And their comming into Portingall and Spaine , and of their Kings and Gouernours in Spaine , Ireland and Albion , now called Scotland , ( howbeit the whole number are not extant ) with a true Chronologie of all their KINGS . Their Reignes , Deaths and Burials , from FERGVSIVS the first King of Scotland , vntill his Royall MAIESTIE , now happily Raigning ouer all Great Brittaine and Ireland , and all the Isles to them appertaining . With a true description and diuision of the whole Realme of Scotland , and of the principall Cities , Townes , Abbies , Fortes , Castles , Towers and Riuers , and of the commodities in euery part thereof , and of the Isles in generall , with a memoriall of the most rare and wonderfull things in SCOTLAND . By IOHN MONIPENNIE . Printed at Brittaines Bursse by Iohn Budge . 1614. To the most High and Mightie Monarch , IAMES by the grace of God , King of Great Britane , France , and Ireland , defender of the faith , &c. IT May be by many iustly ( most gracious Soueraigne ) imputed to me for no small presumption , to present to your Royall Maiestie , a Prince of so great learning and excellent iudgement , these simple fruits of my vnskilfull endeuours taken in this short abridgement . In most humble and obedient manner , I do preferre vnto your Highnesse these my weake and vnlearned labours , according to my ability , which how vnworthy they be of so great a princely fauour , as wel for the meannesse of me the writer , as for the plainnesse and rudenesse of the stile , yet if for the worthinesse of the matter , and of your Maiesties great accustomed clemency , vouchsafe then your Highnesse fauourable regard , they shall be as fortunate , as if they had beene composed by greater & more learned men , wherein briefly ●…ay be seene , the great and infinite mercy of God towards your royall person , that it hath pleased his superexcellent wisedome by his mighty power to preserue your Highnesse ancient Kingdome of Scotland , vnconquered vnder the Empire and gouernment of one hundreth and sixe Kings , your Maiesties royall progenitors : and in speciall when almost the whole world was brought vnder the Romane Empire by the sword . Also to reduce in one peaceable Monarch , these ancient mighty landes & many Ilands , which haue bene diuided in many seuerall Kingdomes , one of Britons seuen of Saxons , one of Scots , one of Pictes , one of Orkenay , and sixe of Ireland , : also some of the valiant and illustre noble actes of your Highnesse most royall and ancient progenitors , and of their raignes , liues , deathes , and burials . Accept them most mightie Monarch , I most humbly beseech your royall Maiesty , in your Highnesse gracious protection , and according to my bounden dutie incessantly with all humility , I will pray the great God of all might and power ( to his eternall glory ) long to preserue your Royall Maiestie , and your gracious Queene in blessed health and peace , to raigne ouer these your Highnesse great vnited Kingdomes , and to enlarge the same , and your Maiesties most royall and hopefull posterity to the worlds end . Your Maiesties most humble , and obedient Subiect , IOHN MONIPENNY . THE ABRIDGMENT OR SVMMARY OF the Scots CHONICLE . WITH A SHORT DESCRIPTION of their originall from the comming of GATHELVS , their Progenitour out of Graecia into Egypt , and of their Kings and Gouernours in Spaine , Ireland , and Albion : ( howbeit the whole number are not extant ) with a true Chronologie of all their Kings , lineally descended from FERGVSIVS the first King of Scotland , vnto his sacred Maiestie , now happily reigning ouer all Great Britaine , Ireland , and all the Isles to them appertaining . GATHELVS son of CECROPS , King of ATHENS , by his insolence made many inuasions , in Macedonia , and Achaia , in Graecia . And because he could not suffer correction , he with many valiant Grecians came into Egypt , & followed Pharao in his warres against the Aethiopians ; who with great cruelty had wasted the most part of Egypt , vnto Memphis the principall citie of that Realme ; Pharao with support of Gathelus vanquished and ouercame the Aethiopians in a most dangerous battell . And Gathelus valiantly vanquished and wanne their principall citie called Meroe . After this great victory , he being a lusty person , strong of body , and of a great spirit , wan great fauour with the King and his familiars , that the Kings daughter SCOTA was giuen in marriage vnto Gathelus , with many lands . Shortly after Pharao died , and another Pharao succeeded ; who opprest the Israelites with great seruitude and tyranny . Gathelus abhorring such cruelty , conferring with MOYSES ; also hauing respons of the Oracles of Egypt , was foreseene of the plagues to come vpon Egypt , made prouision for all things necessary for sayling , and tooke shipping with his wife Scota , his valiant Grecians , and many Egyptians from the riuer Nilus , the yeare of the world 2453. After long sayling and trauell he arriued at the land of Numidia , being stopped to land , he pulled vp sailes , and with dangerous and painfull passage through the Straites , he landed in one part of Spaine then called Lusi●…nia , by his arriuall called Portgathel , now Portingall : at his landing the olde inhabitants came against him with arrayed battell , whom he vanquished . He builded one Citie vpon the riuer Munda , then called Brachare , now called Barsolona . Then after he came into the North part of Spaine , now called Gal●…ia ; where he builded a citie called Brigance , now Compostella , where he reigned with Princely dignity , and instituted lawes , and named his people Scottes , after his wife Scota : for she had born vnto him two sonnes twinnes , HIBER and HEMICVS . He brought with him from Egypt the marble fatall chaire , which was transported to Ireland , and to Albion , now called Scotland ; wherein all their Kings were crowned , vntil the time of King Edward the first , who transported the whole ancient regall monuments of Scotland , with the marble fatall chaire to Westminster , where it remaineth to this day : The Scots shall brooke that Realme , as natiue ground , ( If words faile not ) where euer this chaire is found : Gathelus sitting in his marble chaire within this citie of Brigance , gouerned his people with Princelydignity peaceably , and instituted lawes . And seeing his people encrease with such great multitude , and not willing to violate the bande , made with the old inhabitants , being informed by diuers expert explorators , that there was an Isle opposite to Spaine on the North , with a rude people inhabited , hauing no lawes nor manners . Therefore he brought all the shippes he could get with expedition to the next Sea port , with sufficient prouision , with Hiber and Hemicus , accompanied with valiant warriours , and ordeyned Hiber to be Admirall to passe the said Isle , which they obeyed : & hoisting sayles with fortunate windes , arriued the fift day after in the said Island . Immediately landing , their people then pitched their Tents on the next trenches . The rude inhabitants amazed at the arriuing and landing of such a multitude of warriours , fledde with their cattell and goods into their Cauernes . Hiber commaunding certaine of his warriours to passe forth ; and if the inhabitants would bee willingly subdued , no slaughter to be committed vpon them . The inhabitants being brought as prisoners to the Admirall , and seeing him mercifull , rendred themselues and their goods : and he receiued them with such beneuolence , that he suffered the olde inhabitants to encrease with his people , vnder one name and lawe , and called the land Hibernia , now Ireland . Hiber returning into Spaine , left his brother Himecus with a strong garrison of valiant warriours , with wiues and children to inhabite the land , and to holde the same vnder obedience and subiection . At his returne into Spain his father being deceased , he succeeded King , and augmented his Empire , and conquered sundry lands from the Spaniards , hauing with him at all times a strong guard of valiant men . By his puissance and ch●…alrie he subdued the people in such manner , that he was holden in great estimation and reuerence , that they were constrayned to seeke his peace ; the land being named after Hiber , Hiberia : the Scots and olde inhabitants grew vnder one name and bloud with such tender and friendly beneuolence ( not remembring of old iniuries ) each one willing to defend his neighbour ( as well in peace as warres ) as his brother or father . Of Hiber descended by long progression , a great posterity lineally succeeding , amongst whom were many noble and famous Kings ; howbeit the whole number of them are not extant . HIMECVS gouerned Ireland in great felicity iustice , and tranquility , both the Scots and the olde inhabitants during his life time . Immediatly after his decease , arose an odious controuersie betweene the Scottes and the olde inhabitants for the gouernement , euery nation contending to haue a gouernour of their owne blood , which contention enduring long time , at last they created two Gouernors , betweene whom was continuall battels and great slaughter on eyther side , through ambition and burning desire to be sole Gouernor of all Ireland . After long and dangerous battels , the two people broken with sundry displeasures , were constrained to take peace ; howbeit the same endured but a short time , each one of them pursuing other with battell ; and yet they dwelt many yeares together , by enterchange of peace and warres , while at the last the Scots suffering many iniuries , sent their Embassador to METELLIVS , who was then King of the Scottes in Spaine , desiring to haue support against the old inhabitants of Ireland , declaring them to be a rude wilde people , impatient to suffer any Empire aboue them ; So that the Scots can haue no tranquility , vnlesse the said people were the more speedily tamed and subdued . This foresaid message was the more acceptable to the King Metellius : for it concerned the Common-wealth both of the Scots nation in Spaine and Ireland , descending ( by long progression ) of our lineage and blood , and willingly satisfying the aforesaid Ambassadours request , trusting the same to be no lesse honour and glory to himselfe as profite to his friends . Therefore the King sent his three sonnes HERMONEVS , PTOLOMEVS , and HIBERT with a great Armie of valiant men into Ireland , where they with right dangerous battels vanquished the olde inhabitants , and brought them vnder subiection . Hermonens returning into Spaine , left his two brethren to gouerne the land , who gouerned the same long time after in great tranquility and iustice , ins●…ituting lawes , and instructed the Priests to make insence and sacrifice in the same manner as the Egyptians vsed : so both the people encreased many yeares in great felicity , peace and riches during the Gouernement of Ptolomeus and Hibert , and long after their decease . But too great prosperity engendreth euill maners , and causeth men to worke often displeasures vpon themselues , finding no forraigne enemies to inuade them at home . The people after long peace were diuided for the gouernement , contending for the same with great rigour and slaughter on both sides , vntill the one had almost vtterly destroyed the other , if they had not been reconciled by a noble man , named Thanaus , principall Ambassadour , sent by the King , then raigning ouer the Scots in Spaine ( reioycing of the felicity succeeding to his friends ) and to cause them by his prudent consultation , to encrease together vnder one minde . Thanaus being a prudent man , bearing nuturall affection to both the parties , perswading them at sundry conuentions to remoue all contention , and to elect one ( whom they thought most expedient ) to be their King , and to be obedient to him in all their gouernment . Through this perswasion the whole people had such feruent desire to haue one King , that all olde iniuries being forgotten , they appointed Thanaus to elect a King , whom he thought most expedient ) and hee seeing their mindes willing to haue a nuturall King , declaring to them that there is in Spaine a noble Prince of great seuerity and iustice , named SIMON BREK , well accustomed with your lawes , and lineally descended from the ancient King Metellius , whom he thought most fittest to be their King. The whole people hearing the name of SIMON BREK , were well content to haue him their King , because that name was esteemed very fortunate in those dayes . Then after with consent of the whole people , Ambassadours were sent into Spaine , to request the said Simon to come into Ireland , to be their King. Hee knowing by graue aduisement the intent of the Ambassadours , prouid●…d a great Fleete of Ships with all things necessary , and finally by prosperous windes arriued in Ireland , where hee was solemnly receiued , and crowned in the chaire of Marble , which he brought out of Spaine , esteemed as a most rich jewel in those dayes ; from the beginning of the world 3314. From the floud of Noah 1658. From the building of Rome 102. Before the birth of Christ 651. He reigned with great felicity peaceably forty yeares , being specially counsailed by the aforesaid Thanaus , to whom he gaue sundry lands , lying in the South part of Ireland , beside the riuer Birsus , which lands are now called Dowdall , where hee dwelt with the people he brought with him out of the famous citie Brigance , now called Compostella . They were called Brigandes ; of whom after by processe of time descended many valiant and noble men , who came with Fergusius the first King in Scotland , by whom al the lands now called Galloway , were then called Brigance , whose inhabitants were euer full of manhood and strongest enemies against Romanes , Britaines , and Pickes : Simon deceased , his sonne FANDVF succeeded King : after Fanduf succeeded ETHION : after Ethion succeeded GLAVCVS : after Glaucus succeeded NATHASIL : after Nathasil succeeded Rothesay . ROTHESAY was the first King that brought Scots with him into Albion . The first Isle that he inhabited he called after his owne name Rothesay , the remanent Isles were called Hebredes : after Hiber the eldest sonne of Gathelus . Rothesay hearing the death of his father Nathasil , returned into Ireland , and was there crowned King. The yeare that Scots were brought out of Ireland into Albion , was from the Empire of Simon Brek in Ireland 216. yeares : from the beginning of the world 3530. The Scots spread in sundry parts of Albion , lying farre North , and inhabited many Isles . The first part that they tooke possession of was named Ardgael , from Gathelus , which now is called Ardgile . They being diuided into sundry Tribes , elected certaine Captaines to euery Tribe , to gouerne them both in peace and warre , hauing the name of their Captaine in great reuerence , swearing by their names ; which custome was long obserued in those Isles and the high lands . Then after about 150. yeares , a banished people named Pickes , came forth of Denmarke to search a dwelling place , and after they were inhibited to land in Fraunce , Britaine , and Ireland . They landed in Albion , first in Orknay , of olde called the olde Realme of the Pickes . The Seas betweene Orknay and Caithnes is called Pentland Firth , & the lands now called Loutheane ( was of old called Pentland ) after the name of the Pickes . Then after they came into Caithnes , Ros , Murray , Merms , Angus , Fiffe and Loutheaue , and expelled all the olde inhabitants . They were a Ciuill people right ingenuous andcrafty both in peace and warres . After their planting in the aforesaid parts , they elected a King to gouerne them , and hold them in iustice , and made great policy in building of munitions , townes , and Castles . And because they knew all people , without issue to succeede , should perish , they sent their Ambassadours to the Scots , to haue their daughters in marriage , shewing ( though they were of strange blood ) they should not be so smally regarded , seeing they with no lesse prudence then manhood haue sustained incredible dangers both by Sea and land . And now lately conquered ( through the beneuolence of the Gods ) right plenteous lands with such peace and tranquility , that no other people may claime them by reason : Trusting surely ( if the Gods support them ) by their owne industry to be equall to any their neighbors , both in peace and warre . Further if the Scots condescended to their honourable desires , it might be they encreasing together ( so strong vnder one bloud ) that they might resist the fury of their enemies the better , when it hapned them to be inuaded . This Ambassage was not pleasant to the Scots at the first , thinking it vnworthy to haue any society or marriage with an vnknowne and banished people : but by graue aduisement , and being profoundly resolued , and finding themselues as yet not able to resist the force of the Britaine 's their olde enemies , they determined to giue their daughters to the Pickes in marriage , and to haue a band of peace with them , with conditions that euery one of them shall enioy the lands which perteyned vnto them before the marriage , and to concurre together with their whole puissance , as oft as they were inuaded by enemies . Any that did offence to any of them should be reputed as enemy to them both . And as often as the Crowne of the Pictes should come in question for lacke of an heire , the King to be elected of the neerest of the womans bloud . These conditions accepted on all sides , the Scots gaue their daughters in marriage to the Pictes . The Britaines suspecting this marriage , and dreading the encreasing of this confederate people vnder one bloud in short time , that neyther might the Britaines for the time present , nor their posterity resist the puissance of these two vnited people . Therfore being minded to destroy them both , and to inuade them with fraudulent sleights , rather then with any force of battell . And sending their Ambassadorus to the Pictes , allured the Pictes to violate their band with the Scots . By great perswasion & crafty dealing of the Britains , the band was dissolued ; & mouing occasion of battel against the Scots , commāded by general edict , no Scots to be found in their boūds at a prefixed day , vnder paine of death . The day being expired , all Scots within their bounds were killed without mercy , as breakers of their lawes . The Scots impatient to sustai●…e such iniuries , killed as many of the Pictes ; so there followed continuall killing and murder on all sides , not regarding affinity , bloud , time , nor pl●…ce . In this manner the peace dissolued , the Pictes denounced battell to the Scots : then after followed continuall incursions and inuasions on eyther parties . The Scots assembling in Ardgiel , were sufficiently resolued , that the battell that they were to holde , was not onely against the Pictes , but also against the Britaines . Therefore it was agreed , to send their Ambassadors to their ancient progenitors and friends in Ireland , to haue their support and counsaile in this most dangerous matter , and for that plurality of Captaines ( as often occurreth ) raiseth sedition : the best is to elect one to haue Empire aboue the rest , by whose manhood and counsaile , they might defend their liues and liberties , against a false and periured people , inuading them without any occasion . The Ambassadours being directed to Ireland , complained of the wicked offence done by the Pictes , and desired support . FERQVHARDVS ( then being King of the Scots in Ireland ) greatly moued for the displeasure done to his friends in Albion , sent his sonne . FERGVSIVS a wise and valiant Prince , with many valiant souldiers , and to giue them the more esperance , and assurance of permanent and good fortune , hee sent with them the fatall Marble chaire . Fergusius was the more pleasantly receiued by the Scots of Albion , because their Common-wealth approched to great danger , by a most perillous apparant battell . Then after a Councell was called in Ardgiel , where Fergusius made a large Oration , and acceptable Speech . Therefore by graue consultation , they condiscended to be gouerned by Empire of one King , as well in peace as in any trouble appearing against their enemies . Furthermore to remoue all suspition of hatred ( because euery Tribe desired , a King of their owne linage ) they elected Fergusius , both for his noble bloud , and other his excellent vertues , to be their King : moreouer he was so approued in martiall deedes and iustice , that no Captaine of the Tribes might be any wayes compared vnto him . FERGVSIVS the first King of Scots ( in Albion , now called Scotland ) sonne to Ferquhard King of Ireland , was crowned in the fatall Marble Chaire , which hee brought with him ( by respons of the Gods ) to establish his reigne in Scotland . The yeare from the creation of the world 3641. Before the comming of Christ 330. In the first yeare of the 112. Olimpiade . In the 421. yeare after the building of Rome , about the beginning of the third Monarchy . When Alexander the great vanquished Darius the last Monarch of Persia , in the reigne of Chimarus King of Britaine , the King employed his whole minde to resist the iniury of this battell , moued by the Pictes ; hee calling all the Captains , ordeyned them to be prepared with forty dayes prouision . To passe with him , he made an greement and concord amongst all his Nobles and Captaines , commanding his people to be obedient to their Captaines , hee making sacrifice to his Gods ( as the custome was ) praying the Gods to take vengeance of the partie that was the first occasion of battell against other , and to graunt him such felicity in his iust defence ; that victory might succeed to him without any great damage of his people . The Picts assembled an army , wich many Britaines concurring to their support , appear'd on eyther side a wicked & vnnatural battel between two confederate people , friends , fathers and sonnes . The Pictes came first i●…o the Scots lands ; against whom with no lesse courage then manhood , the King with his valiant Scots , with auncient armes displayed in forme of a Banner , in which was a ●…dde Lion Rampant in a fielde of golde , whilst the Scots and Pictes were in array in each others fight : the armie of Britaines stood in array also , deuising what way they might destroy them both , with f●…me purpose when the Scots and Pcties were vanquished , the one by the other , that the party victorious should vtterly bee destroyed by their fresh army : and when both these peoples were destroyed by this fleight , the Britaines might enioy both their Realmes in Albion , without any impediment . This subtill sleight was discoured to King Fergusius by a banished Britaine , through which both the armies moued no lesse by feare of enemies , then by their own proper damage , prolonged the battell certaine dayes . King Fergusius desiring communication with the King of Picts , who willingly with some of his Nobles , had communication a long time together , after long conference , and deliberate consultation with their Counsellors on both parties , and ruefull crying of the Pictes wiues , being the Scottes daughters , peace was finally concluded , betweene the two confederate people , vnder these conditions , redresse of all iniuries , being made on all parties . The Britaines ( mouers of this battaile ) shall be reputed enemies to them both ; all other charges to be at the pleasure and will of the two Kings . And when any enemy occurred , that they and their people should conioine together , vnder one minde and ordinance . This peace being more strongly corroborate , the Kings returned home . King Fergusius in a most dangerous battell , assisted by the Pictes , vanquished the Britains , which time King Coyl or Chimarus ( vnwatily kept by his Nobles ) was killed in the land after his name then called Coyll , now Kyle in Scotland . After this victory the King called his whole Nobles and Subiects to a general conuention ; and hee making a large and plausible Oration and speech , the Nobles and Subiects condiscended and agreed , that King Fergusius and his posterity should possesse the Crowne of Scotland ; whereupon Charters and Euidences were graunted to him and his sucessors for euer . The Kingdome of Scotland being confirmed to King Fergusius , his heyres and successors , with deliberate counsell of his Nobles , he diuided the whole lands then inhabited by the Scots amongst his Nobles and Captaines of the Tribes by lots or cauils . The first lot chanced or fell vnto Cornath , Captaine and his Tribe ; the land of Caithnes , lying ouer against Orkeney , betweene Dum misbye and the riuer of Thane : Secondly to Captaine Lutorke the landes betweene the water of Thane & Nesse , now called ROS . This Lutorke came with a band of valiantmen , out of Ireland with King Fergusius into Albion . This land of Ros lyeth in breadth from Cromarte to the water of Lochtie . In this countrey was the famous Castle of Vrquhart , of which the ruinous walles remaine in great admiration : Thirdly , to Captaine Warroth , the lands lying betweene Spey and Neffe , from the Almaine to the Irish Seas , the people inhabitants of this part ( after their Captaine ) were called Wars , being seditious , they were expelled , and the Murrayes possessed that land , and called the same land Murray land : Fourthly , to Captaine Thalis the lands of Boyne , Aynie , Bogewall , Gariot , Formartyn , and Bowquhan . These landes were then called vnder one name , Thalia by the name of their Captaine : Fiftly , to Captaine Martach , all the lands of Marre , Badzenoth and Loth Quhabar . The sixth to Captaine Nouance , the landes of Lorne and Kyntier , with the high places and mountaines thereof , lying from Marre to the Irish Seas . The seauenth to Atholus the lands of Athole , for he was descended of the Scots of Spain , and came out of Spaine into Ireland , and with Fergusius he came into Scotland . The eight to Creones and Epidithes , two Captaines of the Tribes , the lands of Strabrawne and Braidawane , lying West from Dunkeld . The ninth to Captaine Argathelus , the lands of Ardgile , his people were named Argatheles from Gathelus their first progenitour ; but now they are called men of Ardgile . The tenth to Captaine Lolgonas , the lands of Leuenox and Cliddisdale . The eleuenth to Captaine Silurch , the lands of Siluria , which Region is now diuided into Kyle , Carrike , and Cunningham ; the inhabitants were right ingenuous and strong . The twelfth to the Brigandes , the lands of Brigance , now called Golloway . King Fergusius after the diuiding of these lands , he instituted lawes to represse vice ; he builded the Castle of Berigone in Longhquhaber . He past the remanent of his dayes in good peace with the Britaines and Pictes . At the last he was elected as Iudge arbitrall to discerne vpon certaine high Controuersies , chancing amongst his friends in Ireland . He accompanied with certaine of his Nobles , past into Ireland and pacified them of all matters , returning home , by a very dangerous tempest perished with all his Nobles that were in his company , vpon a rocke in the Sea , called after his name Craigfergus , the fiue and twentieth yeare of his raigne . In his raigne was Morindus King of Britaines , and Cruthneus Camelon King of Pictes , who builded vpon the water of Carron the Citie of Camelon , the principall and strongest Citie of the Pictes , which resisted the Romanes and Britaines , vntill that Kenneth King of Scotland ( who exiled the Pictes out of Albion ) brought it vnto vtter subuersion . This Cruthneus Camelon builded also the towne and Castle of Edinburgh , sometime called the mayden Castle ; for all the noble young women of the Pictes were nourished , and learned in all skilfull labour of their hands , vntill they were ready to marry . Fergusius departing this present life , as aforesaid a conuention was holden by the Nobles , for election of a King. After a long disputation and reasoning , it was concluded by plaine consent of Parliament , and enacted when it hapned their King to decease , and hauing heyres gotten of his body , being children ; the neerest of the Kings bloud , and fittest to doe iustice , shall possesse the Crowne for his time ; after his death , the Kings sonne shall succeed to the crown without impediment , if he were able thereto : by the same acte it was prohibited children to be Kings . This custome endured long time , which raised much discord in this Realme of Scotland ; for the fathers brother raigning in the minority of his Nephew , cast his chiefest busines to destroy him , and likewise the Nephew to the fathers brother for ambition of the Crowne , through which occurreth continuall killing of Kings and Nobles , to the great damage of the Realme and Common wealth . 2 FEZITHARIS brother to Fergusius , by the aforesaid act , began his raigne the yeare of the world 3666. before the comming of Christ 305. yeares , from the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 26. yeares : he was a good King and seuere Iusticer , and was willing to haue discharged himselfe of the Kingdome , in fauour of Ferlegus , eldest sonne to his brother Fergusius ; which his Nobles would not condiscend vnto , because of the Statute and acte of Parliament lately made , which continued vntill the time of the raigne of King KENETVS the third almost 1205. years : he was killed by the aforesaid Ferlegus the fifteenth yeare of his raigne . Ferlegus the murtherer , and all other participant with him being banished , were fugitiues among the Pictes , and finding no security of his life , he past into Britaine , where he spent the rest of his dayes in great miserie . 3 MAINVS King Fergusius second sonne , succeeded in the yeare of the world 3680. before Christ 291. after the beginning of the raigne 41. He was a noble King , a good Iusticiar ; for he exercised Iustice aires , for repressing of trespassors , and ratified the old league with Crinus King of Pictes , holding good peace with his confederates and Britaines . He died peaceably the nine and twentieth yeare of his raigne . 4 DORNADILLA succeeded his father Mainus in the yeare of the world 3709. before Christ 262. after the beginning of the raigne 70. Hee was a good King , and confirmed peace with the Pictes and Britaines , he delighting greatly in hunting , races and hounds , made certaine lawes profitable for hunting , which were obserued many yeares after : he died peaceably the eight and twentieth yeare of his raigne . 5. NOTHATVS succeeded his brother Dornadilla , ( whose sonne REVVTHER was a childe not able to gouerne by vertue of the aforesaid Statute ) the yeare of the world 3738. before Christ 233. after the beginning of the raigne 98. He was an auaritious cruell Tyrant : hee was killed by Dowall one of his Nobles , Captaine of the Brigandes , the twentieth yeare of his raigne . 6 REVTHERVS Dornadella his sonne succeeded the yeare of the world 3758. before Christ 213. after the raigne 118. He being young , ( assisted by Dowall ) raysed great contention by the perswasion of Ferquhart , Captaine of Kentire and Lorne ( cousen to Nothatus the tyrant late killed ) a man of subtill wit , and hauing great ambition to the Crowne . Betweene the aforesaid parties there was cruell warres : Ferquhart being fugitiue in Ireland returned being assisted with many Irish men , with the inhabitants of Kyntire , Lorne , Ardgile , Caithnes , Murray , and with a great armie . Dowall res●…ing , came with a great power ( accompanied with the young King and the King of Pictes ) and many other his friends ; there was a cruell battell and killing of Chiefetaines and Nobles on both parties . The King of Pictes with many of his Nobles pittifully killed Reutherus , the young King pursued and taken at the Castle of Calender . By this vnhappy battell was such terrible slaughter , that neither Scots nor Pictes were left liuing sufficient to inhabite their Realmes , nor to withstand their enemies . Afterwards the Scots and Pictes were most cruelly inuaded by the Britaines , and a great multitude killed , the rest exiled . King Reutherus and his people past into Ireland , and the Pictes past into Orkney . King Reutherus returning from Ireland , and the Pictes with their King Gethus returning from Orkney , they gaue battell to the King of Britaines , and obtayning victory by the high and soueraigne manhood , and valiantnesse of the foresaid King Reuthorus , the Britaines rendred all the forts , landes , and townes pertayning to the Scots and Pictes , with faithfull promise neuer to inuade them in time comming . This peace being concluded , the Scots , Pictes and Britaines continued in great tranquility many yeares after : the King enduring the rest of his dayes , had good peace , and died the sixe and twentieth yeare of his raigne . 7 RHEVDA succeeded his brother Reutherus in the yeare of the world 3784. before Christ 187. after the beginning of the raigne 144. He was a good King , he caused sepultures to be made for noble & valiant men : he brought artificers into his Realme , and instituted sundry good lawes . In his time came certaine Orators , Philosophers from King Ptolomeus of Egypt , who were pleasantly receiued and well entertained , because they were descended of the Egyptians his auncient forefathers . These Orators did write and consider the situation of the hilles , mountaines , vallies , riuers , lockes , frithes , Isles , townes , and forts within the Realme of Scotland , and the lands thereto pertayning , as also to the Pictes . He raigned peaceably sixteene yeares , and resigned the crowne to THEREVS , sonne to King Reutherus . 8 THEREVS Reutherus sonne succeeded in the yeare of the world 3799. before Christ 171. after the raign 158. He appeared in the first sixe monethes to be a vertuous Prince ; but after he became an vnwise cruell tyrant . Therefore being degraded of all honor , he was exiled . And Conan Captaine of the Brigandes elected to be gouernor , who gouerned the Realme peaceably during the exile of Thereus , who died in the Citie of Yorke in misery the twelfth yeare of his raigne . 9 IOSINA succeeded his brother Thereus the yeare of the world 3810. before Christ 161. after the raigne 170. He was a peaceable and good King , ratifying peace with his confederates the Pictes , and also with the Britaines : he was a good Medecinar and Herbestar . In his time were brought to his presence in Berigone . Two venerable Philosophers , pleasant of visage almost naked , being Priests of Spaine , passing from Portingall to Athens , and by vnmercifull tempest , were Ship-broken at Ros , their shippe and company with Marriners all perished , they onely saued . After refreshing and good entertainment , the King desired and demaunded of them , what they vnderstood by their science of the nature of the ground of Scotland , after good and deliberate aduisement ( so farre as they might coniecture ) there was more riches and profite to be gotten within the veynes of the earth of Scotland then aboue ; for it was giuen more to the winning of Mines and mettals then any production of corne . They knew this by the influence of the heauens . Also they learned the people to worship onely God the Creator , prohibiting them to make sacrifice ( as their custome then was ) to Isis and Apis , the Gods of the Egyptians , but only to make their sacrifice , prayers , and adoration in their Temples ( without any imagery ) to the eternall God , creator of heauen and earth , which the people for the most part obserued long time . King Iosina being a vertuous Prince died in peace the foure and twentieth yeare of his raigne , and buried at Berigone . 10 FINNANVS succeeded his father Iosina the yeare of the world 3834. before Christ 137. after the raigne 194. a wise and vertuous King , a good Iusticiar , with aduice of his Nobles , rewarding them honourably after their deseruings , winning the hearts of his people , ruled with great felicity , encreasing in riches : hee did institute Prelates and Clerkes to be in the Isle of man , instructing Noble mens children in their youth . This vertuous King married his sonne Durstius with Agafia , daughter to the King of Britaines : he wan great fauour among them ; he visited the King of Pictes , who was vexed with a vehement feuer in Camelon : he died there the thirtieth yeare of his raigne , and was brought to Berigone , and there buried among the Sepultures of his progenitors . 12 DVRSTIVS succeeded his father Finnanus the yeare of the world 3864. before Christ 107. from the beginning of the raigne 224. a cruell and traytercus tyrant , killed in battell by his Nobles the ninth yeare of his raigne . 12 EVENVS primus succeeded his brother Durstius the yeare of the world 3873. before Christ 98. after the raigne 133. a wise , iust , and vertuous King. He was the first that caused his Nobles and subiects to giue their oath of fidelity ; he executed iustice seuerely in all the partes of his Realme . At length there came Ambassadours from the Pictes , shewing that the Britaine 's were in armour , purposing to besiege their Citie Camelon : the King to assist his confederate friends , came with expedition against the Britains , Scots and Pictes , went forward with great courage : the Britaines with no lesse audacity on the other part , followeth a very dangerous battell , with vncertaine victory , vntill the night seuered them . The confederate Kings seeing their armie broken , retired in the night . The Britaines so broken , and dispayring of new support retired in the same manner as discomfited people ; their Campe standing with their carriage . The confederate people aduertised hereof , returned and parted the spoyle by custom of armes . The King returned to Berigone , rewarded their friends that were slaine in the said battel , and others promoted to publike offices , some with riches and goods : and the rest of his dayes he was a seuere Iusticiar , and died in peace the nineteenth yeare of his raigne ; buried in Dunstaffage . 13 GILLVS bastard , sonne to Euenus , vsurped the crown , and trayterously killed two sonns of Durstius , contending for the crowne in the yeare of the world 3892. before Christ 79. after the raigne 252. A crafty tyrant , killed in battell by Cadellus Captaine of the Brigandes ; the second yeare of his raigne his head cut off , his body buried in Dunstaffage . 14 EVENVS secundus , Donallus sonne , King Finnan●…s brother , succeeded in the yeare of the world 3894. before Christ 77. after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 254. A good Iusticiar , ciuill , vertuous and peaceable King. Cadallus after the killing of Gillus , returning out of Ireland with his victorious army , by rage of Tempest were almost all perished ; Cadallus was truely rewarded with many landes by the King , and comforted by him concerning his great losse of Nobles and friends . King Euenus marrying Siora daughter of Gethus , King of Pictes , confirmed the olde band . After that hee vanquished Balus King of Orkney , who finding no way to escape , killed himselfe : hee builded Innerlothy and Innernes : hee resigned the crowne to Ederus , giuing him wise and good counsaile : he died in peace the seuenteenth yeare of his raign , buried in Dunstaffage . 15 EDERVS Durstius sonne●… , succeeded in the yeare of the world 3911. before Christ 60. after the raigne 271. a wise , valiant , and good King. Bredus of the Isles ( cousen to Gillus , killed as is before mentioned ) made insurrection . Shortly after the King pursuing him and his associates , they were all taken captiues , and many with the said Bredus killed . Cassibilian King of Britaines , sent his Ambassadours to the King of Scots , desiring support against Iulius Caesar the Romane Emperour , who was ready with most dreadfull Ordinance to come into Albion . The King and Nobles receiuing the Ambassadours courteously , Androgeus speciall . Ambassadour , after a large and serious Oration , the King and Nobles being aduised , sent vnto London tenne thousand chosen men , vnder the conduct and gouernment of Cadallan and Dowall , Captaines of the Brigandes and Lorne . Also an army of Pictes came at the request of King Ederus . The Britaines were raised in great esperance of victory by the aide of Scots and Pictes ; for they had no little confidence in their manhood and chiualry : King Cassibilian went forward with his whole power , against the Romanes there ensued a dangerous and doubtfull battell ; at the last the Romanes were fugitiue , and being minded to renew the battell , Iulius ( hearing of the great destruction of his Ships ) changed his minde , hoisted sayles in the night , and returned into Fraunce , leauing behinde them a great prey of goods , when Iulius Caesar was forced to auoide Albion . The Britaines , Scots and Pictes parted the spoyle gotten in his Campe by custome of armes , reioycing of this glorious victory . Cadallane and Dowall , richly rewarded by Cassibilian , returned with the Scots army ; at whose comming the King was greatly reioyced ; then followed such loue and kindenesse betweene the Britaines , Scots and Pictes , that it appeared them to liue in perpetuall peace . The King passing to Innernes , was certainly enformed by sundry Merchants strangers , that Iulius had pacified Fraunce to his Empire , and making prouision for a new armie , to returne into Britaine , to reuenge the iniuries done vnto him the last yeare , he sends his Ambassadours to Cassibilian , promising ( if he pleased ) to send ten thousand chosen men vnto his aide and support . The Britaines ( moued with vaine arrogancy ) refused to haue any supply of Scots or Pictes : Iulius returning into Britaine , was three sundry times put backe , but at the last Cassibilian was vanquished , and his whole valiant Captaines taken or killed , and his lands made to pay three thousand pound of siluer to the Romanes for tribute . Iulius sendeth his Ambassadours to the Scots and Pictes , offering them conditions of peace two seuerall times . They were resolute to remaine free , not to be subiect , and refusing all conditions of peace , were willing to defend their liues and liberties . Iulius being minded to inuade the Scots and Pictes , was aduertised of a suddaine vprore in Fraunce ; for which cause he passed into Fraunce : Murket Gildus nephew made insurrection against the King. Therefore he sent Cadallane with armed men , who hanged Murket with his complices . The King continued in good peace the rest of his dayes ; hee died peaceably the forty eight yeare of his raigne : buried in Dunstaffage . 16 EVENVS tertius succeeded his father Ederus , the yeare of the world 3959. before Christ 12. after the raigne 319. He was a luxurious , auaritious tyrant , retayning a hundred Concubines , and not being saciate with them , he was taken in a battell captiue , and imprisoned , and was killed by a yong childe the first night , the childe was executed on the morrow , the seuenth yeare of his raigne , buried at Dunstaffage . 17 METELIANVS Ederus brothers son , succeeded the yeare of the world 3966. before the comming of Christ 4. years ; after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 326. A very modest , ciuill and good King , peace being vniuersally at the birth of our Sauiour Christ. The Romane Emperour Augustus sent his Ambassadours into Britaine , requesting the Britains to continue peace , with whom the King sent manyrich jewels to Augustꝰ to be offered in their Capitoll : he wan sure amity of them , which endured long . In this time were in Rome V●…rgil , Horace , O●…d , Tullius , Marcus Varro , Straba , Titus , Liuius Salustius , with many other learned men : he died peaceably the nine and thirtieth yeare , of his raigne ; buried in Dunstaffage . 18 CARATACVS Metellanus Sisters sonne succeeded in the yeare of the world 4005. in the yeare of Christ 35. after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 365. He enioying the great treasure and riches , left by King Metellanus , exceeded all the Kings in Albion in riches , being wise and valiant , pacifying his Realme from all vprore and rebellion , specially in the Isles , and executing seuere iustice . The Britaine 's at this time rebelling against the Romanes , sent their Ambassadors to Caratacus , desiring support against the Romanes , he first reproching them for their wilfull refusall . The Scots offering them support , wisely counselling them to solicite the Normanes , Picards , Barteners and all them on the Sea coast , to rebell against them , and to kill the Souldiers , promising assistance of the Kings of Albion , with money and valiant warriours , both by Sea and land . The Romanes shortly inuading the Britaines in a dangerous battell vanquished them , and killed their King Claudius Emperour : and Vespasian comming into Britaine subdued them againe , and passing into Orkney subdued the same , and brought Ganus King of Orkney his wife and children in his triumph to Rome . The Britaines comming to Yorke , made new insurrection , assisted by Caratacus King of Scots , and Congestus King of Pictes , against whom Plancius Romane Gouernour , and Aruiragus then King of Britaines came with a great Armic . Caratacus being elected Generall , there followed a cruell and dangerous battell , with vncertaine victory vntill the night separated them on either parties : Plancius on the morrow seeing his great losse , specially of his horsemen , returned to London , and Caratacus returned to Yorke : the next yeare Vespasian with many legions of Romanes were sent into Britaine . Aruiragus assisting with the rest of the Britains , conuened at Yorke threescore and fiue thousand chosen men . The consederate Kings came with threescore thousand valiant warriours : there was a terrible and cruell battell . The Albions ( notwithstanding their great valiantnesse , were discomfited by the prudent gouernement of Vespasian , the King of Pictes killed , the whole Britaines being killed except sixe hundred with their King. Caratacus returned with a few number to Brigance . Vespasian wintered in Yorke , and in the Spring besieged and wanne Camelon , wherein was found many rich monuments and jewels , with a precious crowne of gold , set about with many precious stones of diuers colours , with a sword with hilts of golde , which Uespasian vsed in all his warres , hee remayning in Camelon . Cara●…s assembled a new armie , against whom Plancius was sent with a great armie ; a cruell battell ensued . The victory at last succeeded to the Romanes . The rest of the Scots ( that escaped this sorrowfull battell ) were fugitiue to the mountaines . King Caratacus sore wounded , was brought with great difficulty to Dunstaffage . Vespasian sending his messengers to Caratacus , promising ( if he would be obedient to the Romane Empire ) that he should remaine in honours , and be reputed and holden as a friend to the Senate , and people of Rome ; who answered that the Kingdome of Scotland was as free to him as the Kingdome of Romanes was to Caesar. Vespasian returning to Rome Caratacus assembling a new army ; the Romanes encountering him with a great multitude , there followed a cruel and terrible battel , long with vncertaine victory ; at the last the Romanes obteyned victory . Caratacus returned to Dunstaffage . Plancius dying at Camelon , Ostorius Scapula was sent by the Emperor in his place , who after sundry rebellions of the Britaine 's conquered them , he came within the bounds of Scotland . Caratacus gathered a new armie of forty thousand valiant men ; there ensued a dangerous and terrible battell , the victory succeding at last to the Romans . Caratacus wife , his daughter and brother were taken , himselfe returning to Cartamunda his step-mother , Queene of Scots ( in whom he trusted ) but vnworthily he was by her betrayed , and rendered to the Romanes . King Caratacus was sent with his wife , daughter and brother to Rome , where he was greatly admired , and honourably of the Emperour entertayned , and remitted freely with his Queene , daughter , and brother to returne home , restoring all his lands againe , he remayning the rest of his daies in good peace , died the twentieth yeare of his raigne , and buried in Dunstaffage . 19 CORBREDVS primus , succeeded his brother Caratacus in the yeare of the world 4025. in the yeare of Christ 55 after the raigne 385. a wife King and good Iusticiar . He conuented his Nobles , and tooke counsaile of Venisius , the husband of Cartamunda his step-mother , Queene of Scots , who by erafty sleights had taken the aforesaid Venisius her husband , and sundry of his friends , and deteyned them prisoners , purposing to render them into the Romanes hands . The King impatient thereof , came and relieued them , commaunding her to be buried quicke : after a cruell battell betweene the Romanes and the Scots and Pictes , peace was concluded . The Romanes shall possesse the lands of Britaine by them conquered , without inuading of Scots or Pictes , then after by commaund of Nero . Veraneus was sent into Britaine , who shortly died , Woada , sister to Corbredus Queene of Britaine , sent to her brother , complayning of her miserie & trouble , her daughters deflowred , her selfe shamefully beaten by vnmercifull Romanes . Corbredus moued herewith , renued the band with the Pictes , and they raysing a great armie , killed all the Romanes they might apprehend , and wanne in their iourney Barwicke , being then the most populous towne of that Region . In this time there came a people called Murrayes out of Almaine , with their Captain Rodrik , put forth and expelled out of their natiue land , being inhibited to land in France and Britain , arriued in Forth between Louthiane and Fiffe . They were sworne enemies to the Romanes , reioycing greatly that they might haue occasion to be reuenged vpon their enemies ; requesting the confederate Kings to suffer them to passe formost , in support of their people ; and ( if it chanced the Romanes to be vanquished ) to graunt them wiues that they might encrease vnder one bloud with the Scots . Their conditions were graunted to the Murrayes . The confederate King with the Murrayes went forwards , and ioyning with the valiant Queene of Britaines Woada , who reioycing of her brother King Corbredus and the King of Picts comming , after an Oration and comfottable Speech made by her : proffering her with fiue thousand Ladies , armed to passe in the front of the battell , against the vnmercifull and shamefull deflowrers of Virgins and Matrons , the cruell Romanes . The confederate Kings allowing her courage , past forwards , Cattus the Romane Gouernor with arrayed armes came to resist them : there followed a sharpe battell : the horsemen of the Romanes being vanquisht , the rest were fugitiue with Cattus , sore wounded escaped and returned into Fraunce . The Albions departed the spoyle and riches of this field amongst them , and killed the Romanes in all parts where they might apprehend them : in this battell were killed threescore and ten thousand Romanes , and thirty thousand Albions , had not Swetonius Romane Legate come hastily into Britaine , with two legions and ten thousand warriours of sundry Nations , the Albions had beene perpetually deliuered of the Romanes : Woada the Queene hearing of the new armie of Romanes , assembled a new and great armie of Britaines , Scots and Pictes , and Murrayes ; there followed a bloudy and terrible battell . At last the Albions being vanquished , fourescore thousand killed : the Murrayes almost killed with their Captaine Roderik , Woada killed her selfe , to escape the iniury of the Romanes ; her two daughters were taken and brought armed to Swetonius . The eldest daughter was married vnto a noble Romane named Marius , who after was by command of Caesar made King of Britaines . Corbredus broken with this sorrowfull battell , returned with the rest of his armie into Scotland , and gaue to the rest of the Murrayes ( that escaped out of the field ) all the lands betweene Spey and Innernes , which lands were called after them Murray land : for the olde inhabitants being seditious and troublesome were partly expelled . The Murrayes were then marryed vnto Scottish Virgins , and remained vnder one bloud & friendship . Corbredus the King continued the rest of his daies in peace , and died the eighteenth yeare of his raigne : buried in Dunstaffage . 20 DARDANVS nephew to Metellanus succeeded , being a lusty person , faire of visage and body : hee was welbeloued of the people , in the yeare of the world 4042. the yeare of Christ 72. after the raigne 402. He appeared in the beginning to be a good King ; but being within three yeares degenerate , became an odious tyrant , and would haue trayterously caused to be slaine , the two sonnes of Corbredus remayning in the Isle of Man vnder discipline . This Tyrant at last was killed in battell , and beheaded by his Nobles the fourth yeare of his raigne , without buriall . 21 CORBREDVS secundus , surnamed Galdus , Corbredus primus son succeeded , an excellent person , endowed with sundry vertues and high prerogatiues , in the yeare of the world 4046. the yeare of Christ 76. after the beginning of the raigne 406. a valiant and couragious King. He renewed many battels against the Romanes , and was often victorious : at this time arriued in Forth a company of Almaines , named Vs●…pians , banished out of their natiue land ; for killing of a Romane Captaine and his band , they were pleasantly receiued , and ordayned certain lands to be inhabited by them , beside the Murrayes , for they were of one bloud . Agricola remayning in Britaine eight yeares with his Romanes , had sundry victories against the Scots and Picts . Domitian the Emperour , enuying Agricolaes prosperous estate in Britaine , sent hastily letters for him ; at whose comming to Rome he was poysoned by commaund of the said Domitian . GVENVS TABELLIVS was made Gouernor of Britaine , dissention engendred among the Romanes for the gouernement . King Corbredus surnamed Galdus ( being by his explorators ) aduertised hereof , came with a new armie of Scots and Pictes against the Romanes : and finally their Captain with many Romans were killed . The Scots with the Picts following the whole day ; and killing them where they might apprehend them . The King assembling the Scottes and Pictes , parted the rich spoyle of their enemies amongst them as they had deserued . Afterward the Scots and Pictes pursued cruelly in all parts the Romanes . The Romanes conuenting them , elected Chelius to be their Gouernour , there followed a most dangerous battell , at last the Romanes were vanquished and pursued with continuall killing vnto Calidon wood . The confederate Kings came with their armies into Brigance : the Romanes assembled themselues in most fearefull ordinance , a company of Britaines ( sent by Marius their King , in support of the Romanes ) came to the confederate Kings . There followed a terrible and bloudy battell , the Romanes being vanquished and compelled to retire to their Tents with great killing of them , defended their Tents with great manhood , vntill the night approched . The Scots were vigilant all night , and attending that their enemies should not escape ; others were making Engines to breake downe their Tents , and Trenches . The Romanes seeing so great preparation against them , and no way to escape the danger , sent their Orators to the confederate Kings , most humbly entreating peace , on what conditions pleased them . After long consultation , peace was graunted . The Romanes to passe and render all lands , forts and munitions pertayning to Scots and Pictes , with all the goods taken violently from them during the warres , and to remaine their friends at all times after . After this most valiant King Corbredus Galdus , came to Epiake the principall Citie then of Scotland . The rest of his dayes he continued in peace , exercising seuere Iustice : he died peaceably the fiue and thirtieth yeare of his raigne : buried in Dunstaffage . 22 LVCTACVS succeeded his father Corbredus Galdus in the yeare of the world 4080. in the yeare of Christ 110. after the raigne 440. an odious and cruel tyrant , killed by his Nobles the third yeare of his raigne : buried in Dunstaffage . 23 MOGALDVS Corbredus secundus sisters sonne , succeeded the yeare of the world 4083. the yeare of Christ 113. after the raigne 443. a good King and victorious in the beginning of his raigne , gouerning his people with great iustice , and obtayned a great victory against Lucius and his Romanes , by the assistance of the Pictes in Westmerland and Camber ; obteyning a rich spoyle of the Romanes , which they parted by law of armes . Afterwards the King did degenerate into a cruell tyrant . In his time Adrian the Emperour came into Britaine , and builded the wall of Adrian , deuiding the Britaines from the Scottes and Pictes a great wall made of fewell , and earth , and turues , from the mouth of Tyne , ouer against the Almaine Seas , to the floud of Eske , at the Irish Seas fourescore miles in length : he was killed by his Nobles for his tyrannie and odious life the thirty sixt yeare of his raigne : buried at Dunstaffage . 24 CONARVS succeeded his father Mogaldus the yeare of the world 4119. the yeare of Christ 149. after the raigne 479. a cruell tyrant , degraded and imprisoned by his Nobles ( and Ardgadus Captaine of Ardgile , made Gouernour , a good and seuere Iusticiar ) he died in prison the foureteenth yeare of his raigne : buried in Dunsstaffage . 25 ETHODIVS primus Mogaldus sisters sonne , succeeded the yeare of the world 4133. the yeare of Christ 163. after the raigne 493. a good Iusticiar , who holding sundry battels against the Romane Captaines Victorine Trebellius and Pertinax , neere the wall of Adrian , & ministring good iustice , oppressing rebels , was trayterously killed by an Harper ( whom he trusted ) the three and thirtieth yeare of his raigne ; buried in Dunstaffage . This Harper was most cruelly executed . 26 SATRAEL Ethodius primus succeeded the yeare of the world 4165. the yeare of Christ 195. after the raigne 525. a cruell tyrant : he was slaine by one of his Courtiers the fourth yeare of his raigne : buried in Dunstaffage . 27 DONALDVS primus , firstChristian King of Scotland , succeeded his brother Satrael , in the yeare of the world 4169. in the yeare of Christ 199. from the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 529. a good and religious King ( in his time Seuerus the Emperour came into Britaine ) after many incursions made by the Scots and Pictes , in abolishing the wall of Adrian . Anthonius Seuerus sonne gouerned Britaine , and builded and repaired the wall of Adrian strongly with Towers Seuerus dying . Anthonius killing his brother Getus , was Emperour . He was the first that coined money of golde and siluer , and imbraced the Christian faith : he died in peace the eighteenth yeare of his raigne ; buried in Dunstaffage . 28 ETHODIVS secundus Ethodius 1. sonne , succeeded in the yeare of the world 4186. the yeare of Christ 216. after the raigne 546. anvnwise and base minded King : the Realme prudently gouerned by his Nobles , he was killed by his guard the sixteenth yeare of his raigne , buried in Dunstaffage . 29 ATHIRCO succeeded his father Ethodius , the yeare of the world 4201. the yeare of Christ 231. after the raigne 561. a good Prince in his beginning ; afterwards being degenerate , and pursued by his Nobles , for his vitious life ( killed himselfe ) the twelfth yeare of his raigne . 30 NATHALOCVS succeeded in the yeare of the world 4212. the yeare of Christ 242. after the raigne 572. a cruell tyrant , killed by his Nobles ( vsurped the crowne ) the eleuenth yeare of his raigne . 31 FINDOCVS Athicroes sonne , succeeded the yeare of the world 4223. the yeare of Christ 253. after the raigne 583. a good and valiant King : hee was killed at a hunting , by instigation of his brother Carance , and Donald Lord of the Isles . The Traytors killers of him being tormented to death , and Carance exiled the eleuenth yeare of his raigne , buried in Dunstaffage . 32 DONALDVS secundus , succeeded his brother Findocus the yeare of the world 4234. the yeare of Christ 264. after the raigne 594. a good King : he was wounded in battell ; and being vanquished by the insurrection of Donald of the Isles , three thousand of his armie killed , and two thousand with their King taken , the third day with melancholy died , the first yeare of his raigne , buried in Dunstaffage . 33 DONALDVS tertius Lord of the Isles ( vsurped the Crowne ) the yeare of the world 4235. the yeare of Christ 265. after the raigne 595. a cruell tyrant , killed by Crathalinthus his successor ( at which time there was vniuersall persecution of the Christians vnder the Empire of Decius ) the twelfth yeare of his raigne . 34 CRATHILINTHVS Findocus son , succeeded the year of the world 4247. the year of Christ 277. after the raigne 607. a valiant good Iusticiar , and godly King. Hee purged the land of superftition , planting the true Christian Religion . In this time chaunced in the hunting betweene Scots and Pictes discord , so hastily that there were many killed on both parties . Carance brother to Findocus or Carasus 77. Britaine King , exiled for suspition of his slaughter , was long in the Romanes warres , with Dioclesian Emperour , and vsing himselfe valiantly , returned into Albion with many valiant warriours and great riches , placed his people in Westmerland , being reconciled with the King , he at length agreed the two long confederate kings & people . Carance assisted by the twoconfederate Kings with a great army in three battels , comming to Yorke , was resisted by Quintꝰ Bassianus , Captain of Britains , whom he killed , with many valiant Romans . After this battell victoriously won , against the Romans , & the rich spoyle , parted according to the law of arms , Carance with his victorious armie , past to London , where he was receiued with great reuerence , and possessed the crowne of Britaine , contrary to the Empire of the Romans ; reteyning in his companytwo thousand Scots & Picts continually for a guard , he being assaulted in battel by the Romanes and Britaines , was alway victorious . The seuenth yeare of his raigne in Britaine hee was killed by Alectus Romane Captaine . King Crathalinthus ended the rest of his dayes in good peace , and died the foure and twentieth yeare of his raigne , buried at Dunstaffage . 35 FINCORMACVS Father , brother sonne to Crathilinthus , succeeded the yeare of the world 4271. the yeare of Christ 301. after the raigne 631. a godly valiant King : he was a worthy promoter of Christian Religion in Scotland ; at which time Traherus Romane Captaine with many legions sent by Constantinus Emperour into Britaine , to represse Octauius then King of Britaines , being expelled , was fugitiue in Scotland . Traherus assembling a great Armie against the King of Scots , and Octauius King of Britaines ( whom the foresaid King of Scots refused to render ) being solicited friendly , and therefore sharpely and proudly manaced by the said Traherus , followed a cruell and dangerous battell ; the Romanes finally vanquished , and sixteene thousand of the Romanes killed , and fifteene thousand Albions . Fincormacus and Octauius pursued vntill they came to Yorke , where the two Kings were pleasantly receiued by the Nobles of Britaine . Octauius restored to the Crowne Fincormacus for his assistance was perpetually confirmed with an oath to him and his successors , the lands of Westmerland and Cumber ( which Carance had graunted in his time to the Scots and Pictes for the assistance of him by King Crathilinthus against the Romanes ) King Fincormacus continued the rest of his dayes in peace with the Britaines and Pictes , and died the seuen and fortieth yeare of his raigne , buried in Dunstaffage . 36 ROMACHVS brother , sonne to Crathilinthus , succeeded in the yeare of the world 4318. in the yeare of Christ 348. after the raigne 678. a cruell tyrant , killed and beheaded by his Nobles : the third yeare of his raigne ; in whose time Arrius beganne , and Ireland became Christians . 37 ANGVSIANVS Crathilinthus brother sonne , succeeded in the yeare of the world 4321. in the yeare of Christ 351. after the raigne 681. a good and valiant King ; Nectanus King of Picts , to reuenge the killing of Romanes , gathered an armie against the Scots , there followed a sharp battell . The Scots being victorious , and many of the Nobles of the Pictes killed , and their King fugitiue vnto Camelon their principall Citie . After that the Pictes renued battell , and came to the wood of Calidone , where the King of Scots with a great armie ioyned battell , with great cruelty , both the Kings were killed , and many of their Nobles , the third yeare of his raigne , buried in Dunstaffage without succession . 38 FETHEIMACHVS another brother , sonne to Crathilinthus succeeded in the yeare of the world 4324. in the yeare of Christ 354. after the raigne 684. Hee was a good and valiant King , and victorious against the Pictes , and killed their King in battell : he was trayterously murthered in his owne chamber by two distembling Pictes and an Harper . The third yeare of his raigne , buried in Dunstaffage . The murtherers were apprehended and most cruelly tormented . At this time S. Andrewes Church was builded by the King of Pictes , at the request of Saint Rewell . 39 EVGENIVS primus Fincormacus sonne , succeeded in the yeare of the world 4327. in the yeare of Christ 357. after the raigne 687. a vasiant , iust , and good King : he was killed in battell , his brother taken , and all his Nobles killed with fifty thousand of his armie by the cruelty of the Romanes , Britains , and deceitfull Pictes , and the whole nation of Scottes , exiled a long time , the third yeare of his raigne . 40 FERGVSIVS secundus , Erthus sonne to Ethodius Eugenius , the first brother , returning into Scotland by support of Danes , Gothes , and his owne countrey men gathered vnto him out of all partes ( where they were dispersed ) conquered his Realme of Scotland , out of the Romans and Pictes hands , beginning his ragne in the yeare of the world 4374. in the year of Christ 404. from the beginning of the Realm of Scotland 734. He was a wise , valiant , good and godly King , being confederate with the Pictes : he was sundry times victorious against the Romanes : at the last he was killed in a battell by the Romanes the sixteenth yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolukill . 41 EVGENIVS secundus , Fergusius second sonne , succeeded his father in the yeare of the world 4390. in the yeare of Christ 420. from the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 750. He was a valiant and good King ; in sundry battels victorious against the Romanes and Britaines : at which time Maximian the Romane Gouernour of Britaine made insurrection against the Romanes , and cruelly inuaded the land then called Armorica , and killed the most part of all the people there , that it should not be a prey to Frenchmen their neighbours ; he brought out of Britaine a great multitude of people to inhabite the same , some authours write there came a hundred thousand men out of Britaine with Conanus , who was made King of that land , and called the same land Bartany , or litle Britaine , after the Britaines that came to inhabite there . Then after they sent into Britaine for women to bee their wiues : at whose request Vrsula ( called S. Vrsula ) with eleuen thousand Virgins were imbarked to passe Bartany . They all by contrary and tempestuous windes were compelled to arriue in the low Countreyes , iourneying by land to Bartany , were all lamentably murthered and killed , because they would not suffer deflowring of their bodies , but rather offered themselues to be cruelly and vnmercifully murthered and killed , after this vnhappy and cruel murther , other women and Virgins were sent in great number into Bartany , who inhabite that land continually to this day . Britaine being desolate of Romane support , was occasion that the confederate Kings inuaded them after so hardly : for the valiant Graham , who was descended of an ancient house of Denmarke , and borne of a noble Lady of the same countrey , married with a Scots noble man , that was exiled out of Scotland with Ethodius ( brother to King Eugenius afore rehearsed , killed in battell by Romanes and Pictes . This Graham married a Virgin of the bloud royall of Denmark , to whom she bare a daughter of excellent beauty , who was married to Fergusius the second King of Scots : of him descended the auncient surname of Grahams : hee was a great enemy to the Romanes ; for hee destroyed to the ground the wall of Abircorne , called then after Grahams Dykes , and past and all vtterly abolished the wall of Adrian ouer against the Irish Seas . The confederate Kings accompanied with valiant Graham , past with fire and sword through al the bounds betweene Tyne and Humber : there followed a most dangerous battell , in the which were killed fifteene thousand Britains , with the most of the Princes and Nobles of Britaine , and foure thousand Scots , and the whole Romanes being exiled out of Britaine by the confederate Kings ; and peace being concluded betweene the confederate Kings and the Britaines , all the lands lying beyond Humber shall remaine perpetually vnder the Empire of the confederate Kings , and presently to be paide threescore thousand pound to their men of warre , and twentie thousand pound yearely to the confederate Kings : and for obseruing hereof , the Britaines deliuered one hundred pledges , being within age of thirty yeares , at the will of the confederate Kings . In the seuenth yeare of the raigne of Eugenius second King of Scottes , Britaine was deliuered from Romane tribute 496. years after that Iulius Caesar began the first tribute . Eugenius encreased in riches and policy , his Realme with continuall peace . In the same time the Britaines falling at great diuersity , betweene the Nobles and Commons there were many of both parties miserably killed , he died in peace the one and thirtieth yeare of his raigne ; buried in Icolmkill . 42 DONGARDVS succeeded his brother Eugenius the yeare of the world 4421. the yeare of Christ 451. after the raigne 781 a godly , wise , and valiant King , in a dangerous and cruell battell betweene Constantine , new elected King of Britaines , wherein were killed sixteene thousand Britaines and foureteene thousand Scots and Pictes ; the victory falling to the confederates , the King of Scottes valiantly fighting , was killed the fift yeare of his raigne ; and buried in Icolmkil , which was the buriall for the Kings vntill King Malonus Camors dayes . 43 CONSTANTINVS primus , succeeded to his brother Dongardꝰ the year of the world 4427. in the year of Christ 457. from the beginning of the raign 787 a vitious & odious King killed by one of his nobles , whose daughter he had defloured the 22. yeare of his vnwort hy raigne . 44 CONGALLVS Dongardus sonne succeeded in the yeare of the world 4449. the yeare of Christ 479. after the raigne 809. a valiant King , he vanquished the Brittaines in a cruell and daungerous battaile , wherein were killed 20000 Brittaines with many nobles , with GVYTELL Prince of Wales , VORTIGERN vsurping the Crowne of Brittaine , sent into Almaine to fee Warriours against the confederate Kings , at which time came into Brittaine Hengest and Horsus bretheren with 10000. Saxons , immediately the Brittaines and Saxons past with arrayed battaile to Humber , before the confederate Kings were admonished of their comming , killing in all parts , without mercy where they came . The King of Picts asse●…bled his army and ioyned battaile ( without support of the King of Scots , ) where he was vanquished by the Saxons and Brittaines . The Saxons proude of this victorie , and being resolued to conquer the Kingdome of Brittaine , past further . Against them came King Congalus with a great army , with the Picts there followed a cruell battaile , with vncertaine victorie , at last the Brittaines ( that fought in the right wing , against the Scots ) being fugitiue , there chaunced a mighty shower of haile with great darknesse : Hengist by sounde of Trumpet gathered his people to his Standard . The Scottes and Pictes ( hoping their enemies to be vanquished ) followed on the Bir●…taines without array . Hengist the Brittaines vanquisht and the confederate people without order killing and spoyling , he came with his Saxons in arrayed battaile , and killed all the confederates that might be ouertaken . This battaile was right sorrowfull to the confederate people , and not pleasant to their enemies , for the most part of the army of Brittaines were killed , Hengist obteyning new support out of Saxony , the next Summer came with Vortimer King Vortigerus sonne , with a great armie : there followed a cruell and long battell , valiantly debated on all parts , with sundry chances ; for many Scots and Britaines being killed Congallus euill wounded , was brought out of the field . Long time then after Ambrosius ( when he had vanquished Uortigern ) and being crowned King of Britaine , confederate with the Scots and Pictes , he assisted by them , and killed with his owne hands Hengist , and exiled the rest of the Saxons . King Congallus ( holding good pcace with Britaines and Pictes , vexed with long infirmity ) died peace ably the two and twentieth year of his raign , and buried in Icolmkill . 45 CORANVS succeeded his brother Congallus in the yeare of the world 4471. the yeare of Christ 501. after the raign 831. a good King and seuere Iusticiar . In this time arriued in Britaine Occa and Passentius , sonnes of Hengist , with a great multitude of valiant souldiers ( assisted by the Princes of Almaine , against whom came King Ambrosius . There followed a doubtfull and dangerous battell ; the victory enclining to Ambrosius , yet very vnpleasant ; for at the same time there were many Britaine 's killed . Neuerthelesse they parted the spoile of Saxons by right of armes . Occa being aduertised of the comming of the confederate Kings to assist Ambrosius , sent his brother Passentius to bring greater support out of Almaine , by contrary windes he arriued in Ireland , where he gathered a great number of hyred warriours , and returned into Britaine . Occa perswaded one Coppa a fained mediciner to poison King Ambrosius ; the confederate Kings comming with a strong armie to assist Ambrosius , were aduertised of his death : therefore they not knowing who was friend or foe ; and being vncertaine how he died , they returned home : Arthurus being King of Britaines , assisted by the Scots and Pictes , obtayned sundry victories against the Saxons . The confederate Nobles abode certaine dayes in London . And being richly rewarded by King Arthurus , returned home . The Realme of Scotland was gouerned in great felicity and iustice by King Coranus . Then after certaine Traytors ( assisted by Donald Captaine of Athole ) murthered the King in his chamber the foure and thirtieth yeare of his raigne , in the sixteenth yeare of the raigne of King Arthurus , and in the twentieth yeare of Iustinian Emperour , the yeare of Christ 535. He was buried at Icolmkil . 46 EVGENIVS tertius Congallus first sonne , succeeded in the yeare of the world 4505. in the yeare of Christ 535. after the raigne 865. a wise godly King , and good Iusticiar : he continued in good peace all his dayes , and died the three and twentieth yeare of his raigne , and buried at Icolmkill . 47. CONGALLVS secundus , succeeded his brother Eugenius the yeare of the world 4528. the yeare of Christ 558. after the raigne 888. a good , iust , and godly Prince : he instituted many good lawes concerning Churches and Churchmen : hee died in peace the eleuenth yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill ; in whose time was S. Colme and S. Mungo . 48 KINNATELLVS succeeded his brother Congallus , the yeare of the world 4539. the yeare of Christ 569 after the raigne 899. a good and godly King : hee died in peace the first yeare of his raigne , and buried at Icolmkill . 49 AIDANVS Coranus sonne , succeeded in the yeare of the world 4540. the yeare of Christ 570. after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 900. He was a valiant and good King , and seuere Iusticiar : he confederated with the Britaine 's against the Saxons and Pictes : there followed sundry battels ; at last the Britaines and Scottes came into Northumberland against the Saxons , and Pictes ; and vanquished them in a dangerous battell ; the tenth part of the spoyie obtained in the field was dedicated to the Churches of Scotland , and the Banners or Ensignes gotten at that time , sent to Icolmkill : he died in peace the fiue and thirtieth yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 50 KENNETHVS primus , Congallus second sonne , succeeded in the yeare of the world 4575. the yeare of Christ 605. after the raigne 935. a good and peaceable Prince . He died the first yeare of his raigne , and was buried in Icolmkill . 51 EVGENIVS quartus Aidanus sonne , succeeded in the yeare of the world 4576. the ye●…re of Christ 606. after the raigne 936. He was a godly and good Iusticiar , and instituted many godly and good lawes for the Common-wealth of his subiects : he raigned peaceably , and died in peace the fifteenth yeare of his raigne ; buried in Icolmkill . 52 FERCHARDVS primus , succeeded his father Eugenius , the yeare of the world 4591. the yeare of Christ 621. after the raigne 951. a vitious Tyrant , degraded by his Nobles , and imprisoned : he killed himselfe in prison the eleuenth yeare of his raigne . 53 DONALDVS quartus succeeded his father Ferchardus the yeare of the world 4602. the yeare of Christ 632. after the raigne 962. a good and religious King. holding peace , with his neighbours , being at fishing with his seruants for pastime , he perished in Lothay the foureteenth yeare of his raign , his body being found , was buried in Icolmkill . 54 FERCHARDVS secundus succeeded his brother Donaldus , in the yeare of the world 4616. in the yeare of Christ 646. after the raigne 976. an auaritious and vitious tyrant , bitten by a Wolfe in hunting , whereof ensued a dangerous feuer , being penitent of his euill life . He died the eighteenth yeare of his raigne , buried at Icolmkill . 55 MALDVINVS Donaldus sonne , succeeded in the yeare of the world 4634. in the yeare of Christ 664. after the raigne 994. He was a godly and wise King , and a seuere Iusticiar , holding good peace with his neighbours . He was strangled by his wife in the night by suspition of Adultery the twentie yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill , on the morrow his wife was taken with her Complices , and burned to death . 56 EVGENIVS quintus , Malduinus brother Sonne succeeded in the yeare of the world 4654 in the yeare of Christ 684 after the raigne 1014. he was a valiant and good King , he obteyned a great victory against Edfreid King of Northumberland , being killed with 10000 Saxons , and Bredius King of Pictes fugitiue , he dyed the fourth yeare of his raigne , and buried in Icolmkill . 57 EVGENIVS sixtus Ferchardus secundus sonne , succeeded the yeare of the world 4658 the yeare of Christ 688 after the raigne 1018 a good religious and peaceable King , he died in peace the 9. yeare of his raigne . Buried in Icolmkill . 58 AMBERKELETHVS succeeded in the yeare of the world 4667. the yeare of Christ 697 after the raigne 1027 an auaritious euill King , killed by a shot of an Arro●… . The second yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 59 EVGENIVS septimus succeeded his brother Amberkelethus , in the yeare of the world 4669. in the yeare of Christ 699. after the raigne 1029 A good King , contracting peace with the King of Pictes then called Garnard , married his daughter Spontana , who being with childe , in the next yeare , was murthered in her bedde insteed of the King , by two brethren of Athole ( who had conspired the Kings death . ) The murtherers at length were apprehended , and cruelly put to death . He continued a religions and vertuous King , he endewed sundry Churches liberally , holding good peace with his neighbours , died in peace the 16 yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 60 MORDACVS sonne to Amberkelethus , succeeded in the yeare of the world 4685 in the yeare of Christ 715 after the raigne 1045 an humble and liberall Prince , he caused peace to be made in all Brittaine , amongst the Brittaines , Saxons , Scots and Pictes , he repaired many decayed Churches , and builded Quhitthorne . In his time was Saint Beda , he died peaceably the 16. yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 61 ETFINVS Eugenius seuenth Sonne succeeded in the yeare of the world 4700. in the yeare of Christ 730. after the raigne 1060. a Godly wise King , and seuere Iusticiar , holding his Realme in good peace , his people encreasing in riches and religion , he being aged elected foure Regents . The Thaues of Ardgiele , Athole , Galloway and Murray to doe Iustice to his subiects , which was not obserued , he died in peace the 31. yeare of his raigne , buried at Icolmkill . 62 EVGENIVS Octauus Mordacus Sonne succeeded in the yeare of the world 4731. in the yeare of Christ 761. after the raigne 1091. a good King & seuere Iusticiar in the beginning , for he executed to death Donald the tyrant , Lord of the Isles , and the Earle of Galloway for assenting to his vices , then after he being degenerate vnto all abhominable vices , he was killed by his nobles , the third yeare of his raigne , and buried in Icolmkill , his familiars and seruants asisting to his vicious life , were all hanged vppon Gibets , to the great contentment of his whole subiects . 63 FERGVSIVS tertius Etfinus sonne succeeded in the yeare of the world 4734. in the yeare of Christ 764. after the raigne 1094. he married Ethtolia daughter to the King of Pictes , he was a leacherous adulterer , and being admonished continued still in whoredome , at last he was murthered by his wife , and sundry of his familiar seruants , who being sharply therefore accused , his wife hearing thereof , came into iudgement and relieued those innocent men , confessing the fact , and imediately stabbing her selfe to the heart with a dagger , died in presence of the whole people . The King was buried in Icolmkill the third yeare of his raigne . 64 SOLVATHIVS Eugenius eight sonne , succeeded in the yeare of the world 4737. in the yeare of Christ 767. after the raigne 1097. a noble valiant King , he married the King of Brittaines daughter , she bare to him two sonnes and one daughter . He being troubled with the Gow●…e gouerned his people , by his Captaines and commaunders , seuerely executing iustice , and subduing sundry Rebels , especially Banus Captaine of the Isle of Tyre , who assembled a great company of Rebels and calling himselfe King. He died peaceably of the Gowt , the 20. yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 65 ACHAIVS Etfinus second sonne began his raigne in the yeare of the world 4757. in the yeare of Christ 787. after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 1117. a good Godly and peaceable King , he pacified insurrection both in Scotland , and Ireland , he contracted the band of amitie with Charles the great , King of Fraunce and Emperour of Germanye , which band hath continued inuiolably obserued vnto this present time . He married the foresaid Charles the great his daughter , who bare to him three sonnes and one daughter . The amitie and confederation of Frenchmen and Scottes , to be made for euer both for the people present and their successours , and for corroborating of the said band . King Achaius sent his brother GVIILIAM with sundry nobles into Fraunce with 4000. valiant warriours to assist the foresaid Charles in his warres , in any part he pleased to passe against the enemies of the Christian faith , at which time the Armes of the Kings of Scotland , were the red Lyon Rampant in a field of gold , there was augmented a double treasour with contrary Lillies or flower-deluce including the Lyon on all parts : Guilliam , Achaius brother assisting Charles in his warres with his valiant Scots , purchased great honour , and being so beloued and holden in great estimation among the Princes of Fraunce , that he was called the Knight without reproach , and purchased great riches and lands , he prospered greatly in all his warres & vanquished sundry nations , rebelling against the Emperour , he obteined great honours , the time that King Charles restored Pope Leo the third to his seate , after that he was put out of Rome by iniury of the Romaines , he conquered great honours , when Charles passing thorough Tuskany , restored the Cittie of Florence to their auncient honours , after it was destroyed by the Gothes , these and many other honourable acts were performed by Scottish Guilliam , howbeit they were done vnder the name of Charles Emperour , for he remained not long in Italy , but left the charge to Guilliam , who did all things with such prouidence , that he augmented the dominion of Florence greatly . The Florentine in recompence of Guilliams humanitie towards them , ordeined solemne playes , to be made in their Cittie , in which a Lyon is crowned with sundry ceremonyes , they commaunded also quick Lyons to be yearely nourished vpon the common purse , because the Lyon was the armes of Scottish Guilliam . This is yet obserued in perpetuall memory . Guilliam after infinite trauailes taken with Charles the great , for the defence of Christian faith grew in age , and because he had no succession of his body ( for he was all his daies giuen to chiualry ) he made Christ his heire , and founded many Abbaies in Italy , Almayn , and Germanie , liberally distributing vnto them rich rents and lands , and ordeined that Scottishmen onely should be Abbots , to the same Abbeyes . In witnesse hereof are many Abbeys in Almaine and Germanie nothing changed from the first institution . At comming first of Scottish Guilliam there came two learned Clarks with him from Scotland , holden in great honour by the Emperour for their singular learning , they obteined a place in Paris which was giuen to them with certaine lands , to susteine their estate , and to instruct the noble mens children of Fraunce , in sundry sciences . To these men came such confluence of people out of all parts , desiring learning , that in short time by their exact diligence in erudition of young children , the Cittie of Paris was made a solemne Vniuersitie of resolute men in all science . The Emperour Charles hauing great delectation that learning began to flourish in his realme , by the great industry of those two Scottish men , commaunded that Clement should remaine as principall regent of Paris : And Iohn his Colleague to passe to Pauy , a towne of Lumbardy for encreasing of learning there . This small beginning was the origenall of the famous Vniuesitie of Paris : King Achaius , continuing in good peace , the Romaine Empire was deuided , for Emperour Charles the first Emperour of Germanes was Emperour of the west and Constantiue Emperour of the East : Achaius married Fergusiane sister to Hungus King of Pictes who bare to him one sonne called Alpine , who after succeeded to be King of Scotland and right inheritour to the King of Pictes . King Achaius being aged died in peace , the 32. yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 66 CONGALLVS Achaius cousen germane , began his raigne the yeare of the world 4789. in the yeare of Christ 819. after the raigne 1149. a good and peaceable King. He died in peace the fift yeare of his raigne , buried at Icolmkill . 67 DONGALLVS Saluathius sonne , beganne his raigne the yeare of the world 4794. the yeare of Christ 824. after the raigne 1154. a valiant and good King , sending his Ambassadours to the Pictes after the death of DORSTOLOGVS their King , killed by his brother Eganus , who marrying his brothers wife BRENNA , daughter to the King of Marches ; who after murthered the said Eganus in his bedde ( notwithstanding his armed Guard ) to reuenge the murther of her first husband . The Scots Ambassadours at commaund and in the name of ALPINVS King Achaius sonne , begotten betwixt him and Fergusian , sister to Hungus late King of Pictes . The two brethren aforesaid being murthered , without succession , the right and title of the Crowne of Pictes , succeeded by the law of God and man to the aforesaid Alpinus . Therefore desiring the Pictes to accept him as their naturall Prince , both of Scotland and Picts land : which they refusing , elected FEREDECH to be their King. The Scots Ambassadors denounced battell to the Pictes . King DONGALLVS preparing a great armie to passe against the Pictes , perished in a Boat passing ouer the water of Spey , the seuenth yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 68 ALPINVS Achaius sonne , began his raigne the yeare of the world 4801. the yeare of Christ 831. after the raigne 1161. a valiant and good King , being right heire to the Crowne of Pictes , in a dangerous and cruell battell , killed Feredech their King : then after the Pictes elected BRVDVS his sonne King , who was killed the first yeare by sedition among the Pictes . His brother KENNETH was made King , who comming with an Armie against the Scots , rent off his coate armour , and was fugitiue to the mountaines , where hee was shamefully killed by a Countryman ( not knowne who he was ) . The Pictes immediatly elected a fierce and valiant Prince BRVDVS , to be their King ; who directing Ambassadors to Alpinus , desiring peace , all matters to be redressed , and the olde band to bee renued . King Alpinus answered that he would make no peace vntill the crowne of Pictes were deliuered vnto him as righteous inheritor . Brudus raised a great armie , and came ouer the bridge of Dunkeld to Angusse . The night afore the battell he caused all the carriage men and women ( that came with his armie ) to stand in arrayed battell with linnen shirts aboue their clothes , with such weapons and armour as they might furnish for the time . This done , hee ordayned an hundred horsemen , to gouerne them , without any noyse or din in the next woode ; commaunding none of them to come in sight vntill the battels were ioyned . King Alpinus was at this time in a Castle , which was situate on a hill , not farre from Dundee , and beheld the Armie of Pictes , marching forwards , incontinent he arrayed his Scots , then the battel 's ioyned with great slaughter on all parts . Immediatly the carriage men and women afore rehearsed , came mouing forwards vpon the backe of the Scots ; who belieuing that a fresh armie of Pictes were to come against them ( not looked for ) at the last the Scottes were fugitiue : for this hidden sleight before rehearsed , was the discomfiture of the Scots armie . The Pictes followed with cruell killing of all they might ouertake . In this battell was King Alpinus taken and beheaded . The place where he was beheaded , is called Pasalpin , that is , the head of Alpin ; his body was buried at Icolmkill , the third yeare of his raigne . After this great victory obtayned against the Scots , Bredus King of the Pictes returned to Camelon , and conuocated a Councell , making their oathes neuer to desist from battell , vntill they had vtterly destroyed the Scots , and made a Statute , what euer he was that laboured to haue peace with the Scots , hee should be beheaded . Some of the wise Pictes , not allowing their oathes and Statutes , counsailed to vse victory with measure ( who were exiled ) and came into Scotland . 69 KENNETHVS secundus ( surnamed the great ) succeeded his father Alpine the yeare of the world 4804. in the yeare of Christ 834. after the beginning of the Realme of Scotland 1164. a good and valiant King : he married the Lord of the Isles daughter , who bare to him three sonnes . The Pictes comming against the Scots , they contended amongst themselues for a thing of nought : thus was their armie diuided , and many slaine ( vntill night seuered them ) King Brudus could not pacifie them ; therefore hee with the rest of his armie past home ; and hee shortly after died for displeasure . DONSKEN his brother was elected King , and redressed all iniuries that he might . Three yeares continued sundry incursions on both parts . King Kenneth setling his wits to defend his Realme , putting strong souldiers in all forts , adioyning to the borders of the Picts , and commaunded his people to be daily exercised in chiualry , to be ready against euery trouble that might occurre . In the fourth yeare King Kenneth made a conuention of his Nobles , consulting how hee might reuenge his fathers slaughter , and obtayne the crowne of Pictes ( rightfully appertayning vnto him ) . The season of the yeare being expedient to raise their armie , the Nobles not consenting thereunto for the great slaughter lately made on their King and Nobles ; therefore the King conuenting all his Nobles , perswading them that hee had greater matters to propound . By solemne banquet within his Palace , he royally entertayning them , vntill darke night : after they were brought to seueral chambers within the Palace : and when they were in profound sleepe , the King caused sundry men to passe to euery seuerall bedde ( where the Nobles did lie ) cladde with fish skinnes , hauing in their handes a Clubbe of Muscane tree , which with the fish skinnes in the darke did shew a marueilous glaunce and light all at one time ; each one holding in the other hands a bugle horne , and speaking through the horne ( appearing to be no mortall mans voice ) did shew they were Angels sent by God to the Princes and Nobles of Scotland , to cause them to obey the desires of the King ; for his desire was so iust and right , that the Pictes for repulse thereof shall be brought to such extermination , that no puisance nor wisedome of man can resist : their speeches ended , they obscured their clubbe and skinnes vnder their cloathes ; their light vanishing at one time . The Nobles seeing this vncouth vision , were astonisht , and tooke little rest that night : on the morrow at their conuention , each one declaring their visions , ( all being at one time ) concluded firmely the same to be no fantasie , but an heauenly vision ; assuring them of victory and felicity , reuealing the same to the King , who assured them that the same vision appeared to him the samehoure ( howbeit he would not first reueale it ) least his Nobles should esteeme him glorious . By generall Statute all able persons were commaunded sufficiently prepared to meet the King on an appointed day . In two battles the King being victorious against the Pictes , to their vtter extermination , King Donsken and all his nobles being killed , his sword and coat armour , were sent to Icolmkill in perpetuall memory . The Citie of Camelon after long assault , was vtterly destroyed , and the Pictes , men , wiues and children killed , after they had raigned in Albion 1181. yeares . King Kenneth instituted many good lawes , and brought the fatall chaire from Ardgiel to Scone , adding the Realme of Pictes to his Dominion . This victorious King died the twentieth yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 70 DONALDVS quintus , Kennethus brother began his raigne in the yeare of the world 4824. in the yeare of Christ 854. after the raigne 1184. a vitious & odious King ; his people made effeminate by his vices and sensuall pleasures ; his Nobles admonishing him to reforme his euill life ; he continuing still without reformation . The Pictes that were fugitiue amongst the Englishmen , requesting Osbraed and Ella , two great Princes of England , to moue warres against the Scots : these two Princes , with Englishmen , Britaines , and Pictes , came into the warres , where King Donaldus vanquished them in a great battell at Iedbrugh . Donald right insolent after this victory , came to the water of Tweed with his Armie ; and finding two ships laden with wines and victuals , which were taken and parted amongst his warriours . King Donald was giuen to such voracity and lust of his wombe ( the whole Campe vsing the same ) and being ful of Tauernes , Brothels and whores , followed dicing and carding , with contention and killing one another . King Osbraed being aduertised hereof , preparing a new armie , came suddenly on the Scots , and killed twenty thousand , being without armour , full of wine and sleepe . And King Donald was taken in manner aforesaid , and ledde through the countrey in derision to all people . At which time King Osbraed conquered great landes in Scotland , assisted by Britaines ; so that Striuiling bridge was made marches to Scots , Britaines , and Englishmen . King Osbred coined money in the Castle of Striuiling ( by whom the Striuiling money had first beginning ) . King Donald being ransomed , returned into Scotland , continuing in his vitious and abhominable life . He was taken by his Nobles , and imprisoned ; where hee desperately killed himselfe the fift yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 71 CONSTANTINVS secundus Kennethus sonne , began his raigne in the yeare of the world 4829. the yeare of Christ 859. after the raigne 1189. a valiant King : hee married the Prince of Wales his daughter : she bare to him two sonnes and one daughter . Hee instituted sundry good lawes for Churchmen , and repressed all vitious vices engendred amongst his subiects by Donald the ●…yrant , his predecessor ; in whose time Hungar and Hubba with a great Fleete of Danes landing in Fiffe , vsed great cruelty ; a great number of religious persons being fugitiue in the Isle of Maye , with Adrian their Bishop , were all cruelly tormented and killed by the vnmercifull Danes . Constantine came with a great armie against Hubba , and vanquished him . The Scots being proude of this victory , and neglecting themselues , there followed a cruell and desperate battell : at last the Scots were vanquished , and King Constantine with his Nobles , and ten thousand of his armie , killed in the fifteenth yeare of his raigne ; buried in Icolmkill . 72 ETHVS surnamed the Swift , Constantinus secundus fonne , began his raigne the yeare of the world 4844. the yeare of Christ 874. after the raigne 1204. a luxurious Prince , taken by his Nobles and imprisoned ; where he died the third day of melancholy the second yeare of his raigne and buried in Icolmkill . 73 GREGORIVS magnus , Dongallus sonne , began his raign in the yeare of the world 4846. the year of Christ 876. after the beginning of the raign of Scotland 1206. He was but two moneths olde when his father perished in the water of Spey , a valiant and greatly renowned Prince in ●…ll parts : he instituted good lawes for his subiects ; and being very religious , ordeyned good lawes for Churches and Churchmen , and that all Kings his successors at their coronation , should make their oath to defend the Christian Religion . He obtained great victory against Danes and Britains : and recouering all his lands lost in King Donalds time , enlarged his bounds with Northumberland , Cumber and Westmerland ; and being confederate with Alurede King of England , the foresaid lands to remaine perpetually to be possessed by the Scots . Then after the King to represse Irishmen , that were come into Scotland , who had robbed the people , and made sundry incursions , he followed with a great armie ; and landing in Ireland , vanquished Brennius and Cornelius , two Princes of Ireland with the whole Nobles of Ireland , and vanqu●…shed sundry townes , and besieged Dublin with a strong siege , where their young Prince Duncane was , to whom the Crowne of Ireland appertained : at last the Towne was rendred ( and the King made Protector during the Princes minority ) with all the fortes , and threescore pledges . The King returning with his victorious armie , and the pledges of the Nobles of Ireland ; and holding good peace the rest of his dayes , he died in peace the eighteenth yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill : he builded thecitie of Aberdene . 74 DONALDVS sixtus sonne to Constantinus secundus , began his raigne in the yeare of the world 4864. in the yeare of Christ 894. after the raigne 1234. a valiant Prince and godly : he punished with great seuerity the blasphemers of the name of God : he married the King of Britains daughter ; she bare to him one sonne and a daughter . At this time ROVVLAND King of Denmarke , gathered or conuened a great multitude of Danes out of England , Norway , Swed●…icke , and Denmarke ; and pastthrough Fraunce , committing great cruelty vpon the people there . And because CHARLES the great then Emperour , was implicat with frequent warres in Italy , against the Sarazens . The Danes raged with such open cruelty , that great bonds of France appeared to come vnder their Dominion . Emperour Charles after his returne from Italy , came with a great armie to resist the Danes , and they ( nothing affraid ) went forward to meete him in their awfull manner . The Princes of Fraunce , knowing the great ferocity of the Danes , proued and exercised in all partes where they were assayled ; and seeing them by frequent victory so insolent , that but by great slaughter they might not be vanquished , perswaded the Emperour Charles to make peace with the said Rowland , that their Realme should not be in ieopardy or put to extreme danger , through the wers both in Italy and Fraunce . Peace was corroborate and contracted with the Danes on this manner : The Emperour Charles his daughter shall be giuen in marriage to Rowland , and hee with all the Danes , shall receiue the Christian faith , and in the name of Dowry , shall haue all the landes which were named Newstria , lying betwixt Deip , Picardy , Paris , and Bartany . These landes were then after Rowland called Normandy . Rowland made King of Normandy by receipt of Baptisme , was named Robert , and ordayned to pay for the said lands one yearely tribute to the aforesaid Charles and his posterity , to signifie that the said landes were not conquered , but onely giuen from the Crowne of Fraunce in marriage . The yeare that the Normans began to raigne in Normandy , was from the Incarnation of Christ 886. yeares . The valiant deedes done by the Danes , in sundrie parts of the world was in great admiration to all people . Rowland called Robert begat on the Emperour Charles his daughter . WILLIAM who succeeded after his father . To William succeeded RICHARD the first , to him succeeded RICHARD the second , who had two Sonnes ROBERT and GVSTARD : Robert begat WILLIAM the bastard , Duke of Normandy , who conquered England , and vanquished both Englishmen and Danes , and possest the crowne thereof . And Gustard past into Italy , and made many and cruell inuasions in Cicill Calabre and Naples . In this time the Murrayes and Rosses inuading each other with cruell killing 2000. men were killed on either parties , the King came vppon them with a great army , and punished the principall mouers of this trouble to the death , he dyed in peace the 11. yeare of his raigne : and buried in Icolmkill . 75 CONSTANTINVS tertius Ethus sonne began to raigne the yeare of the world 4874. in the yeare of Christ 905. after the raigne 1245. a valiant prince , not fortunate in Warres , he married the Prince of Wales his daughter : she bare to him one sonne , being vexed with Warres in the time of King Edward and Athelstane his bastard sonne , he became a Chanon in Saint Andrewes and died the 40. yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 76. MILCOLVMBVS primus Donaldus sonne began his raigne in the yeare of the world 4913. in the yeare of Christ 943. after the raigne 1283. a valiant Prince and good Iusticiar , he married the Lord of Twylths daughter : she bare to him two sonnes and one daughter . A confederacy was made betweene England and Scotland , that Cumber and Westmerland shal be perpetually annexed to the Prince of Scotland raigning for the time , to be holden in fee of the Kings of England . By vertue whereof Indulfus sonne to Constantine the third , ( as Prince of Scotland , ) tooke possession both of Cumber and Westmerland . The King passing the rest of his dayes in peace & seuere Iustice , which caused a conspiracy in Murrayland , where this noble King was traiterously killed , the 9. yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . The murtherers and their assistants all apprehended , were cruelly tormented and put to death . 77. INDVLFVS Constantinus tertius sonne , began his raigne in the yeare of the world 4922. in the yeare of Christ 952. after the raigne 1282. a noble valiant Prince . He vanquished in battaile Hagon Prince of Norwaye and Helricke Prince of Denmarke , and was killed by a Stratageme of Warre , the 9. yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 78 DVFFVS Milcolumbus sonne began his raign the year of the world 4931. the yeare of Christ 9●…1 . after the ragin 1291. a good Prince & seuere Iusticiar . He was trayterously murthered by one Donalde Captaine of Forres in Murrayland , and his wife was buried secretly vnder a bridge at Kinlus . The murtherers being apprehended were seuerely executed and put to death the 5. yeare of his raigne , and buried in Icolmkill . 79 CVLENVS Indulfus sonne began his raigne the yeare of the world 4936. the yeare of Christ 966. after the raigne 1296. he was marryed to the King of Brittaines daughter , a vitious Prince killed by Rodardus a noble man at Mesfen , whose daughter he had defloured , the 4. yeare of his raigne , and buried in Icolmkill . 80 KENNETHVS tertius Duffus brother began his raigne in the yeare of the world 4940. in the yeare of Christ 970. after the raigne 1300. one valiant and wise Prince and seuere Iusticiar , for one time he caused 500. notable theeues to be hanged on gibbets , and inhibited their bodies to be taken downe , beside the Castell of Bertha to giue example to others . The Danes with a great Fleete of ships arriued in the mouth of Taye , and destroyed the towne of Mountrose , killing all the people & demolishing the wals , wasting the whole country comming thorough Angus , with great cruelty , and laying a strong siege to the Castle of Bertha . The King came with a great army , there followed a dangerous and cruell battaile , with vncertaine victorie , valiantly defended on both parties . At the last one Haye with his two sonnes , enforcing the Scots that were fugitiue , to returne , and by their valiant courage renewing battaile , the Danes were vanquished and fugitiue , the most part of them being slaine . The King enriched Haye and his sonnes , giuing them a great part of the spoile of the Danes , with as much land as a Falcon flew ouer , of one mans hand vntill she lighted , called the Falcons stone . So he obteined the whole lands betweene Tay and Arrole , sixe miles of length and foure of breadth . This was the beginning of the noble and ancient surname of Hayes decorate with great honours , riches , and lands , valiant defendours of the realme of Scotland : This noble King , ( so long decorate with Iustice , ) the blinde and immoderate affection ( that he had to his sonne ) was occasion that he killed by poyson Malcolme Prince of Scotland , and Lord of Cumber and Westmerland . He abrogated the old lawes concerning the Kings , and instituted . The King being deceased , his eldest sonne or Nephew notwithstanding what age soeuer he were of , and though he were borne after his fathers death , shall succeed to the crowne . The Nephew borne on the Kings sonne shal be preferred before the Nephew gotten on the Kings daughter , and the Nephew gotten by the Kings brother shal be preferred before the Nephew gotten on his sister : These lawes to be obserued amongst all other nobles in succession of their heritage . When the King is young , one noble man of great prudence and authoritie , shal be chosen gouernour of the Realme vntill the King come to age of fourteene yeares , and then the King to gouerne his Realme by his owne authoritie . All other inheritours shall succeede to their fathers heritage after the expiration of one and twentie yeares , and within that time they shal be gouerned by curatours or guardians , and vntill those yeares be outrunne , they shall not be admitted to claime their heritage : He proclaimed his sonne Malcolme Prince of Scotland and Lord of Cumber and Westmerland . Once when the King was lying in his bed , he heard a voice saying , O Kenneth belieue not , that the cursed killing of Prince Malcolme is hid from God ( O thou vnhappy tyrant which for desire of the crowne ) hast killed an innocent , inuading thy neighbour with treasonable murther , which thou wouldest haue punished with most rigour , if it had bin done by any other person then thy selfe . Therefore thou hast incurred such hatred of God , that thou and thy sonne shal be suddainly killed , for thy nobles are conspired against thee . The King was greatly affrayde of this voice , and being very penitent , confessing his offence to a Bishop , who comforting him , he did sundry good workes , appertaining to a Christian Prince . At the last King Kenneth comming to the Castell of FETHERCARN was ( as appeared ) thankfully receiued by FENELLA Lady thereof , where in the midle of the Castle most curiously wrought was an Image of brasse , the similitude of the King , with a golden apple in his hand . The King perceiuing the same ( suspecting no treason ) counselled by the said Lady being alone in the tower , the Castle being apparelled with rich Tapestries of golde & silke ouerlayed or thicked with copper . The King taking the apple with violence out of the hand of the Image , immediately the titups of the Cross-bowes were throwne vp ( being made with such engyne ) one of them shot the King thorough the body . The Lady was fugitiue . There he died the 24. yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 81 CONSTANTINVS quartus surnamed Caluus . Culenus sonne began to raigne ( vsurping the crowne ) in the yeare of the world 4964. in the yeare of Christ 994 after the raigne 1324. he was killed in battaile at the town of Crawmond in Louthaine , the second yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 82 GRIMVS Duffus sonne began his raigne in the yeare of the world 4966. in the yeare of Christ 996. after the raigne 1326. ( a vitious vsurper of the crowne ) killed in battaile by Malcolme his successour the eight yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 83 MILCOLVMBVS secundus Kennethus third sonne beganne his raigne the yeare of the world 4974. in the yeare of Christ 1004. after the raigne 1334. a valiant and wise King , he was often victorious against the Danes . In his time beganne the auncient noble name of KEITH , whose house is decorated with great honours , being Marshall of Scotland . The King repaired and enlarged the Cit●…y of Aberdene then called Murthlacke , he was killed by conspiracy of some of his nobles in the Castle of Glammess . The 30. yeare of his raigne he married the Duke of Normandies daughter , who bare to him three sonnes and two daughters , buried in Icolmkill . The murtherers fugitiue in the night , chaunced into the Loch or Poole of Forfarr , being frozen ouer , couered with snowe , were all drowned therein , by the righteous iudgement of God. 84 DVNCANVS primus Malcolme second daughter Beatrix her sonne , began to raigne in the yeare of the world 5004. in the yeare of Christ 1034. after the raigne 1364. a good and modest Prince . In his time was THANE or Earle of Lochquhaber Banquho . Of whome are descended the auncient and royall name of STEVVARTS . He was trayterously killed by Makbeth the 6. yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 85 MACBETHVS ( Dowoda Malcolme second daughters sonne ) began to raigne in the yeare of the world 5010. in the yeare of Christ 1040. after the raigne 1370. in the beginning he was a valiant Prince , and seuere Iusticiar instituting many good lawes , at last by illusion of Witches and Sorcerers , he became a cruell tyrant and oppressor , at last killed in a battaile , vanquished by his successor King Malcolme Cammore , and killed by Makduff Thane or Earle of Fiffe the 17. yeare of his raigne , buried in Icolmkill . 86 M●…LCOLVMBVS surnamed Cammore , Duncane the first his sonne began to raign in the year of the world 5027 in the yeare of Christ 1057. after the raigne of Scotland 1387. he was a religious and valiant King , he rewarded his nobles with lands and offices , and commaunded that the lands and offices should be called after their names , he created many Earles , Lords , Barons , and Knights . They that were called Thanes as Fiff , Menteith , Athole , Lenex , Murray , Caythnes , Ros , Angusse , were made Earles : many new surnames came in at this time as Calder , Lokart , Gordoun , Seytonne , Lawder , Wauane , Meldrome , Schaw , Liermond Liberton Struchquhan , Cargill , Rettray Dondas , Cock●…urne , Mirtoun , Me●…es , Abercrummy , Listye , names of offices Steward , Du●…ard , Bannerman . At this time William Duke of Normandy conquered England holding battaile with King Harold , and killed him in the yeare of Christ 1066. Edgar within age rightfull heire of England , seing the crowne conquerd , was desperate to succeed any way to the gouernement . To eschew all apparant d●…unger he tooke shipping with purpose to returne with his mother and sisters into Vngerland , by contrary winds he arriued in Forth in a part called the Queenes Ferrey . King Malcolme was at that time in Dunfermling , he came and tenderly receiued the said Edgar with his mother and sisters , and married Margaret eldest sister to the said Edgar , William the conquerour hearing of his marriage , exiled all the friends of the said Edgar , wherefore they came into Scotland , many people to King Malcolme whome he receiued and gaue them lands as their surnames , Maxwell●…nd ●…nd sundry surnames , came out of Vngerland to Queene Margaret as Creitchton Fotheringham , Giffard Melwill , Borthuike out of Fra●…nce came into Scotland Fraiseir , Scincler , Boswell , Moutray , Montgomery , Cambell ▪ Boyes , Beton , Taylifer and Bothwell . In King Malcolmes time was the Recrosse erected , with the King of Englands Image on the one side , and the King of Sotlands on the other , this stone crosse ( was march betweene the two Realmes , standing in the middle of Stan-moore ; Queene Margaret foresaid daughter to Edward , sirnamed the Outlaw , sonne to Edward Ironside , King of England , a very religious Queene , after called S. Margaret , who beare vnto King Malcolme sixe sonnes ; Edward the Prince , Edmund , Etheldred , Edgar , Alexander and Dauid , and two daughters , Matilda or Mawde ; sirnamed Bona , wife to Henry the fourth , sirnamed Beauclerke , King of England , of whose vertues are extant an Epigram . Prosperit ie reioyced her not , to her griefe was no paine , Prosperity affrayed her al 's , affliction was her gaine , Her beauty was no cause of fall , in Royall state nor pride , Humbly alone in dignitie , in beauty onely good . She founded the Church of Carliel . The other daughter was married to Eustatius Earle of Bolloigne : King Malcolme builded the Church of Durham and Dunfermling . Hee was killed at the siege of Anwike , by one Robert Mowbray , who vnarmed vpon a light horse , came out of the Castle of Anwike , with a Lance in his hand , the keyes of the Castle vpon the point of the Launce , King Malcolme looking earnestly thereunto , the aforesaid Robert Mowbray ran the King through the left eye , and ran hastily into the next wood . King William changed the name of this valiant Knight , calling him Percey , of whom are descended the Earles of Northumberland . King Malcolme died the six and thirtieth yeare of his raigne , and his sonne Prince Edward , both buried in Dunfermling . 87 DONALDVS septimus , Malcolme Cammore his brother ( vsurped the Crowne ) sirnamed Bane , beganne to raigne in the yeare of the world 5063. in the yeare of Christ 1093. after the raigne 1423. Hee was expelled by Duncane , bastard to Malcolme , the first yeare of his raigne . 88 DVNCANVS secundas bastard aforesaid ( vsurped the Crowne ) killed by Mak-pender Thane of Mernis , by procurement of Donald the seuenth , who after was crowned . He gaue the North and West Isles to the King of Norway , to haue his assistance to recouer the crowne : he was taken captiue by his Nobles , and his eyes put out : he died miserably in prison the third yeare of his second raigne , buried in Dunfermling . 89 EDGARVS Malcolme Cammors sonne , began to raigne in the yeare of the world 5068. in the yeare of Christ 1098. after the raigne 1428. a good and religious King , the first annoynted King : he builded the Priory of Coldingham , and died peaceably the ninth yeare of his raigne , buried at Dunfermling without succession . 90 ALEXANDER the first , sirnamed Fierce , succeeded his brother the yeare of the world 5077. in the yeare of Christ 1107. after the raigne 1437. a good and valiant King : he builded the Abbeyes of Scone and Saintcolms Inch ; he married Sibilla , daughter to William Duke of Normandy , the seuenteenth yeare of his raigne , he died in peace , buried in Dunfermling . 91 DAVID . primus , King Malcolms third youngest sonne , began his raigne the yeare of the world 5094. the yeare of Christ 1124. after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 1454. a good , valiant , and very religious King : he builded many Abbeyes , as Holy-rood-house , Kelso , Iedborugh , Melrose , Newbottell , Holmcultrane , Dundranane , Cambuskenneth , Kinlosse , Dunfermling , Holme in Cumber , two Nunneries , one at Carliel , the other at north Berwick ; he founded two Abbeyes , besides new Castle , the one of S. Benedicts order , the other of white Monkes : hee founded 4. Bishopricks , Ros , Breichin , Dunkeld & Dunblane ; ordeyning them great lands , rents and possessions , al out of the patrimony of the crown . King Dauid of Scotlād in his time possessed Northumberland , Cumber , Huntington and Westmerland ; he married the inheritrix of the aforesaid lands called Mawde , daughter to the Earle of Northumberland , and Iuditha daughters daughterto William the Conquerer King of England . In the time of King Stephen of England he repaired the towne of Carliel with new wals : his sonne Prince Henry died with great lamentation of the whole Realme , hauing three sonnes and three daughters . King Dauid caused Malcolme , ( eldest sonne vnto Prince Henry late deceased ) to be declared Prince of Scotland . After that he past into Northumberland , and made William his second Nephew Earle thereof ; after he went to Carliel , where he made Henry ( the Empresse her sonne Prince of England ) Knight , taking his oath hee should neuer take Northumberland , Cumber , Westmerland and Huntington from the Empire of Scotland : afterwards this victorious and religious King Dauid died in peace , being greatly honoured and beloued of his subiects and neighbors , the nine and twentieth yeare of his raigne : he died in Carliel , and buried in Dunfermling . MILCOLVMBVS quartus ( sirnamed the Mayden ) nephew to King Dauid , began his raigne in the yeare of the world 5123. in the yeare of Christ 1153. after the raigne 1483. a good and milde Prince : he builded Cowper Abbey in Anguisse , and subdued sundry rebellions , died at Iedbourgh , buried at Dunfermling the twelfth yeare of his raigne . 93 GVILIELMVS ( sirnamed the Lion ) succeeded his brother Malcolme , in the yeare of the world 5135 in the yeare of Christ 1165. after the raigne 1495. ( a good & valiant King vnfortunate ) he married Emigerda , daughter to the Earle of Bewmont , who beare to him two sons and two daughters : he builded the Abbey of Abirbrothoke , she builded the Abbey of Bamerinoch , after that the Castle of Bertha was demolished by inundation of waters ( King Guilliam narrowly escaping with his wife and children ) his young sonne and nurse perished , and sundry others : he founded and builded the towne called Perth , and graunted sundry great priuiledges thereunto , now called S. Iohns towne . The King continuing in peace died the nine and fortieth yeare of his raigne , buried in Abirbrothoke . 94 ALEXANDER 2. succeeded his father in the yeare of the world 5184. in the yeare of Christ 1214. after the raigne 1544. a valiant and good King , and seuere iusticiar : hee pacified all rebellion in his Realme ; he agreed with King Henry of England , and married his sister , reteyning Northumberland , Westmerland , Cumber and Huntington , and King Alexanders two sisters were married vnto two great Princes of England . He past into France , and renued the auncient band : in the meane time Iane his Queene died without any succession . The next yeare he married at Roxbourgh Mary daughter to Ingelram , Earle of Coucey in Fraunce , of great beauty , who bare to him a sonne , Alexander who succeeded after him : he died in peace the fiue and thirtieth yeare of his raigne , buried in Melrosse . 95 ALEXANDER tertius , succeeded his father in the yeare of the world 5219. in the yeare of Christ 1249. after the raigne 1579. a good young Prince , being at his coronation nine yeares of age . After that the Kings of England and Scotland , with their Nobles conuened in Yorke , where king Henry the third of Englands daughter Margaret , was married to King Alexander of Scotland . Enduring his tender age the Realme of Scotland was wel gouerned by his Nobles ; be comming to perfect age , willing to execute iustice , summoned the Earles of Mentieth , Athole and Buchquhane , and the Lord of Strabogy , which were all of the name of Comminges , and for non comperance denounced them rebels . They with their assistance being a great number , because there was of the same name ( by the aforesaid Lords ) thirty Knights and landed men . They imprisoned the King in Striueling a certaine space . King Acho of Norway came into the Isles with many Danes . King Alexander to resist him came with a great armie ; there followed a cruell and dangerous battell , long with vncertaine victory , at last the Danes being vanquished , and foure and twenty thousand of them killed , Acho was fugitiue to his Ships : his whole Nauie by tempestuous storme being spoyled ( returned with foure Ships left of his whole Fleete into Norway ) . Then after his sonne Magnus renouncing all title to the Isles , contracted his sonne Hanigo ( to be married with King Alexanders daughter one yeare of age ) at their both perfect age . At this time Alexander Earle of Carrike past to the holy land , hauing a daughter Martha , who succeeding in his heritage , who married a Nobleman Robert Bruce , sonne & heire to Robert Bruce Lorde of Anandale in Scotland , and Lord of Cleueland in England . This Martha aforesaid inheritrix of Carike , in the third yeare beare the Noble and inuincible Champion , Robert Bruce King of Scotland : Margaret sister to King Henry the third of England , beare to King Alexander two sonnes , Prince Alexander and Dauid , one daughter Margaret , married vnto Hanigo Magnus sonne , King of Norway , who beare to him Margaret called the Mayden of Norway . In this time died Dauid King Alexanders second sonne . Alexander the Prince was married at Roxburge , vnto the Earle of Flanders daughter , whereat many of the Nobles of Scotland and England were present for thetime . The third yeare after Prince Alexander died at Lundors the twentieth yeare of his age , to the great lamentation of the whole Realme ; for in him failed the whole succession of King Alexander the third ( except the Mayden of Norway ) who was begotten on his daughter Margaret before rehearsed . King Alexander by counsell of his Nobles ( after the death of his first Queene ) married Ioleta the Earle of Drux daughter in Fraunce , by whom he had no succession . He builded the Crosse Church of Peblis . He died of a fal off his horse , ouer the west craig at Kingorne , the seuen and thirtieth year of his raigne , buried in Dunfermling . The day before the Kings death , the Earle of March demaunded of one Thomas Rymour , what wether should be the morrow ? Thomas answered , that on the morrow before noone there shal blow the greatest winde that euer was heard in Scotland : on the morrow being almost noone ( the ayre appearing calme ) the Earle sent for the said Thomas , and reprouing him , said , There was no appearance . Thomas answering , yet noone is not past , immediatly commeth a Post , and sheweth that the King was falne and killed . Then Thomas said to the Earle , that is the winde that shall blow , to the great calamity of all Scotland . After the death of King Alexander the third , the Realme was gouerned by sixe Regents ; for the South side of Forth , Robert Archbishop of Glasgiue , Iohn Comming , and Iohn the great Steward of Scotland . For the North side of Forth VVilliam Frester Archbishop of Saint Andrewes . Makduffe Earle of Fif●…e , Iohn Comming Earle of Buchquha●…e : they gouerned the space of seuen yeares . During which time Edward the first King of England sent his Ambassadors into Scotland , for marriage of the Mayden of Norway aforesaid . The Nobles of S●…land being agreed in all points , with the said King Edward ( sirnamed Longshankes ) the Ambassadors of Scotland directed to bring the mayden of Norway , the right inheritrix of Scotland with them : before their arriuing she was departed this present life , by meanes whereof great contention arose betweene Robert Bruse and Iohn Balioll , the deciding of the said matter was by the Nobles of Scotland ( vnwisely ) referred to King Edward . 96 IOHANNES BALLIOLVS was preferred before Robert Bruse , by King Edward , sirnamed Longshanke , who being elected Iudge in the foresaid controuersie , admitting him King , with condition that the said Baliol should acknowledge him for his superiour : which condition ( refused by Rob●…rt Bruse ) hee as an auaritious vnworthy man receiued , began to raigne in the yeare of the world 5263. in the yeare of Christ 1293. after the raigne 1923. a vaine glorious man , little respecting the good of his country , in the fourth yeare he was expelled by the aforesaid King Edward into France , where he died long after in exile , Scotland being without King or gouernour the space of nine yeares : during which time King Edward cruelly oppressed the land , destroyed the whole auncient monuments , and shedde much innocent blood . About this time William Wallace , sonne to Sir Andrew Wallace of Cragy Knight , of huge stature and maruellous strength of body , with good knowledge and skill in Warlike enterprises ; hereunto such hardinesse of stomacke , in attempting all maner of dangerous exploits , that his match was not any where lightly to be found : he bare inward hate against the English Nation , when the fame of his worthy actes were notified , many Nobles and Commons were ready to assist him : therefore hee was chosen Gouernor vnder the Baliol , to deliuer the Realme from bondage of England . At this time many Abbeyes and spirituall Benefices were in Englishmens hand , which he by commission of the Archbishop of S. Andrew , auoyded and put forth of all partes , and receyuing the whole armie that was vnder the conduct of Iohn Cuning Earle of Bucquhan ; he conquered many Castles , Fortes and strengths out of English mens hands , King Edward being in Fraunce , hearing hereof , sent his Lieutenant Hugh Crassingham with a great armie into Scotland , where VVilliam VVallace encountring him at Striueling bridge , killed the said Crassingham , with the most part of his armie , many being drowned , and few escaping away with life : great dearth being in Scotland , he gathered a mightie armie , and past into Northumberland , wasting and spoyling the countrey to Newcastle ; for he with his armie remained in England , almost the whole Winter from the feast of All Saints , vntill Candlemas , liuing vppon the spoyle of Englishmens goods . King Edward being in Fraunce , hearing the deedes of VVallace , sent his Ambassadour , so●…e menacing him that had inuaded his Realme , which he durst not haue done , if he had beene at home . VVallace answered , that he had taken the aduantage , as he had done in the wrongfull Conquest of Scotland ( he being chosen by the Nobles as indifferent Iudge , and further sent word vnto King Edward , that ( if God fortunate him to liue ) he purposed to holde his Easter in England : and comming with an armie of thirty thousand valiant men into England at the appointed time , King Edward was readie with an army of threescore thousand vpon Staines Moore to giue them battell . Being ready to ioyne , the Englishmen drew backe , hauing at that time no lust to fight , as appeared : the Scots seeing them draw backe would haue followed , but VVallace fearing deceit , stayed them and returned ( with infinit spoyle and booties gotten in that iourney ) into Scotland . King Edward being aduertised that VVallace was greatly enuied by the Cunings , & Robert la Bruse , raised a great armie , and came to Falkirke , and VVallace not knowing of any deceit , raised a great armie to resist being in sight of Englishmen , there began a great contention for the leading of the Vantguard , and by their owne misgouernance , many Noblemen were killed , Robert Bruse was against the Scottishmen that day . Shortly then after VVallace came , and renounced in Perth the Gouernement , and also refused great and large offers of King Edward , to be his subiect , and true man : Iohn Cuning and Simon Froser being admitted Gouernours , King Edward sent a great armie to Perth , subduing the countrey . The aforesaid Gouernours raised an armie of eight thousand valiant men . King Edward sent with Ralph Comfray thirty thousand men , deuiding them in three armies , to passe in three sundry parts through the countrey and to meete at Rosling . The Gouernours aforesaid , encountring with the first ten thousand defeated them , and so at three sundry times in one day the Scots obtained the victory : King Edward impatient hereof , gathered a mighty army of sundry nations , and subdued with great cruelty the most part of the Scottish nation . About this time was Willam Wallace traiterously betrayed by Sir Iohn Menteith at Glascoe , and deliuered King to Edward , and being brought to London , was cruelly executed in Smithfield . King Edward accusing Robert Bruse of a contract made betwixt him and Iohn Cumyng , and he straitly denying the same was aduertised by the Earle of Glocester , of the kings displeasure , causing a Smith to shoe his horses backward in the Winter , the ground being couered with snow he came into Scotland , howbeit he was sharply pursued , and mee●…ng with his brother and some friends , and being aduertised that the Cumyng was in the Friers at Dumfreis . After hard commoning , he suddenly killed him , wherethrough hee purchased many enemies , both English men and Scottish men , and was hardly pursued ( especially by the Cumyngs being then very potent and rich , and a great number of them . 97 ROBERTVS BRVSS●…VS ( sonne to Isabell King VVilliams brothers daughter ) began his raigne in the yeare of the world 5276. in the yeare of Christ 1306 after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 1636. a valiant king , good and wise ( in his beginning subiect to great affliction and persecution . At last being assisted by Iames Dowglasse ) cosen to William Lambertō Archbishop of Saint Andrewes ) tooke all his gold and horses , with sundrie young valia●…t men of his opinion , who remained with the said King Robert , both in warres and peace to the end of his life . Of this Iames Dowglasse descended the valiant and illuster surname of Dowglasse the sure target , and defence of Scotland , as in old verse sheweth . So many good as of the Dowglasse hath beene , Of one surname was neuer in Scotland seene . King Robert hauing van quishet king Edward the second of Carnaruen being of sundrie Nations to horse and foote three hundreth thousand warriours , and King Robert not aboue thirtie thousand olde , well exercised valiant men at the battell of Bannockburne , deliuered Scotland free from all seruitude of England : All Englishmen being expelled out of the land . Hee married first Isabel daughter to the Earle of Marre , who bare to him Margery , married to Walter the great Steward of Scotland , after her death he married the daughter of Haymerus de Burck Earle of Haltouia or Hulster in Ireland , who bare to him Dauid the Prince , Margaret Countesse of Sudderland , and Mawde that died young . Iohn Balioll transferred his right of the Crowne of Scotland vnto King Robert and his heires . In this time Hanton an Englishman ) for the killing of one Spencer came into Scotland , and was courteously receiued by King Robert , and rewarded him with the lands of Cadyowe , whose posteritie is spread in great number , now called Hamiltons endowed with great honour and riches . King Robert died at Cardrose the 24. yere of his raign , buried in Dumfermling . After this time Sir Iames Dowglasse ( as most worthy champion ) was chosen by the Nobles to passe with king Roberts heart to Ierusalem , and there to cause to bury the same within the temple beside the Sepulchre of our Lord , conforme to the said kings direction , because he had auouched or vowed , till he had past with a great armie in defence of the Christian faith against the Turkes and Saracens ( if he had not beene hindered or stayed by warres at home ) and now preuented by death . Sir Iames Dowglasse willingly obeyed , as he that most faithfully had serued King Robert in his life time , and inclosing the heart in a case of gold , enbalmed with sweet spices , and precious oyntments , accompanied with Sir William Sinclair , and Sir Robert Logane , with many other noble and valiant men , past and buried the said heart with great reuerence and solemnity at the place appointed . Therefore the Dowglas buries the bloudy heart in their armes or Coat . There after Sir Iames Dowglasse with his noble and valiant men accompanied with other Christian Princes then present : Many times obtained great victorie against the Turkes and Sarazens . So that by his often victories he purchast great honours of the Christian name . Purposing to returne home , by tempestuous winds , was compelled to land in Spaine vpon the borders of Granad , where he assisting the King of Aragon in his warres against the Sarazens , obtaining great victories . At last ( being negligent of himselfe ) was inclosed with one ambushment purposely lead for him by the Sarazens , he and his most valiantly defending were vanquisht and killed with all his Nobles and valiant men . Thus ended the Noble and valiant Dowglasse , one of the most worthy and renowned knights that was in his daies . It is chronicled that he was victorious against the Turks and Sarazens , thirteene times , and against others his enemies in battell fiftie seuen times in memory of the Dowglasse , in our time there was a port or gate in Danskin called the Dowglas port . Now reedified sumptuously ( called the Hochindure ) the high port , also there are sundrie Earls in the Easterne parts of that name , and specially one was called Graue or Earle Scotus , a great Nicromancer , his title was Ieronimus Scotus , Graue or Earle of Dowglasse , his brethren dwell in Italy . 98 DAVID BRVSSIVS succeeded his father the yeare of the world 5300. in the yeare of Christ 1330. after the raigne 1660. a good Prince subiect to much affliction in his youth , being first after the death of Earle Thomas Ranulph his Regent , forced for his preseruation to passe into France , and returning home at the battell of Durham , was taken and detained prisoner in England twelue yeares , after he was at liberty , hee married the foresaid Iane , daughter to Edward the secōd , king of England , after her death he married Margaret Logy daughter to Sir Iohn Logy Knight , and died at Edenbourgh without succession , the fortieth yeare of his Raigne , buried in Hollyrood house . 99 EDVVARDVS BALLIOLVS , sonne to Iohn Balioll , assisted by King Edward the third , vsurped the Crowne the yeare of the world 5302. in the yeare of Christ 1332. after the raigne 1662. hee was expelled by King Dauids Regents , and King Dauid established . 100 ROBERTVS STVARTVS , the first King of the Stewarts , sonne to VValter the great Steward , and Margery Bruce , king Robert Bruce his daughter , succeeded his mothers brother in the yeare of the world , 5●…41 . in the yeare of Christ 1371. after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 1701. a good , valiant , and victorious king , hee married Eufame , daughter to Hugh Earle of R●…sse , who bare to him , Dauid Earle of Straitherne . VValer Earle of Athole , and Alexander Earle of Buchq●…ham , Lord Badyenoch , after her death for the affection hee bare to his children begotten before his marriage , hee married Elizabeth Mure , daughter to Sir Adam Mure Knight ; who had borne to him Iohn , after called Robert the third , Earle of Carricke , and Robert Earle of Fiffe , and Menteth and Eufame , wife to Iames Earle of Dowglasse , hee died at Dundonald , and buried at Scone the nineteenth yeare of his raigne . 101 ROBERTVS tertius ( sirnamed Iohn Fernyar ) succ●…eded his father , in the yeare of the world 5360. in the yeare of Christ 1390. after the raigne 1720. He was a modest and peaceable Prince : hee married Annabill Drummond , daughter to the Knight of Stobhall , who bare to him Dauid the Prince , Duke of Rothsay , who died in prison in Falkland , by procurement of Robert Duke of Albany ( who aspired to the Crowne ) and Iames his second sonne , taken prisoner in his iourney into Fraunce , and deteyned by Englishmen the space of eighteene yeares . King Robert died of displeasure ( when he heard his one sonne deceased in Falkland , and the other sonne taken prisoner the sixteenth yeare of his raigne , buried in Paslay . Robert Duke of Albany , Earle of Fiffe and Mentieth , gouerned Scotland the yeare of the world 5376. in the yeare of Christ 1406. after the raigne 1736. Iames the first being captiue in England , a noble and valiant Prince : he died the fourteenth yeare of his gouernment , Duke Murdo Earle of Fiffe and Mentieth , was made Gouernour foure yeares , Iames the first returning home from captiuitie , caused the said Murdo and his sonne to be executed for oppression of his subiects . 102 IACOBVS primus began his raigne the yeare of the world 5394. in the yeare of Christ 1424. after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 1754. a godly , wise , learned and vertuous Prince , and a seuere iusticiar ; hee married Iane daughter to the Duke of Somerset , Marquesse Dorset , sonne to Iohn of Gaunt , third sonne to Edward the third , the victorious King of England ; who did beare to him two sonnes twinnes , Alexander who died shortly , and Iames the second , who succeeded his father , and sixe daughters ; Margaret wife to Lewes the eleuenth Dolphin , then after King of Fraunce , Elizabeth Duchesse of Britaine , Iane Countesse of Huntley , Elenor Duchesse of Austria , Mary wife to the Lord Camphier , and Annabella : he was killed at Perth trayterously , by Walter Earle of Athole . Robert Grahame and their complices , who were all apprehended and cruelly tormented to death the thirteenth yeare of his raigne , after his deliuerance out of England , and the one and thirtieth yeare after the death of his father , buried in the Charterhouse of Perth , which he founded . 103 IACOBVS secundus succeeded his father in the yeare of the world 5407. in the yeare of Christ 1437. after the raigne 1767. ( a Prince subiect to great troubles in his youth ) hee married Margaret daughter to Arnold Duke of Gilder , sisters daughter to Charles , sirnamed Audax , the last Duke of Burgundy , who bare to him Iames 3. Alexander Duke of Albany ; hee married the Earle of Orkneyes daughter , and begat on her Alexander Bishop of Murray : hee parting with her , married in Fraunce the Countesse of Boloine , and begat on her Iohn Stewart Duke of Albany , who was many yeares gouernour of Scotland . The third sonne Iohn was Earle of Marre , died in the Canon-gate without succession : the first daughter married one Thomas Boyd Earle of Arran , after his death married the Lord Hammilton ; and by that way the house of Hammilton is decorated by the Kings bloud . This King was killed at the siege of Roxebourgh the foure and twentieth yeare of his raigne , buried at Holy-rood-house . 104 IACOBVS tertius succeeded his father in the yeare of the world 5430. in the yeare of Christ 1460. after the raigne 1790. a good Prince ( corrupted with wicked Courtiers ) hee married Margaret , daughter to the king of Denmarke ( sirnamed Diues ) and king of Norway , who in his fauour renounced all title that hee had any manner of way to Orkney , Schetland and the Isles for euer , who bare to him Iames the fourth , Alexander Bishop of S. Andrewes and Duke of Albany , and Iohn Earle of Marre . They died both without succession ; he made peace with King Henry of England , who ( like a liberall Prince ) for the fauour he had receiued in Scotland , restored the towne of Berwicke to the King. Thomas Cochrane and VVilliam Rogers ( his peruerse Courtiers ) were hanged at the bridge of Lawder . The King was killed at Bannockburne the nine and twentieth yeare of his raigne , buried at Cambuskenneth . 105 IACOBVS quartus succeeded his father in the yeare of the world 5459. in the yeare of Christ 1489. after the raigne 1819. a noble and couragious Prince , both wise and godly : he made peace with England , and married Margaret , eldest daughter to Henry the seuenth King of England , & Elizabeth , daughter to Edward the fourth , in whose persons the cruell warres betweene the houses of Lancaster and Yorke were pacified , the foresaid Margaret bare to him Iames the fift : he was killed at Flowdon in battell the fiue and twentieth yeare of his raigne , buried at Holy-rood-house . 106 IACOBVS quintus succeded his father in the yeare of the world 5484. in the yeare of Christ 1514. after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 1844. a wise valiant Prince , and seuere Iusticiar : he married Magdalen daughter to the King of Fraunce , who died shortly after ; he married Mary of Lorraine , Duchesse of Longeuile , daughter to Claude Duke of Guise , who bare to him two sonnes and one daughter Marie : hee died of displeasure at Falkland , the nine and twentieth yeare of his raigne , buried at Holy-rood-house . 107 MARIA succeeded her father in the yeare of the world 5513. in the yeare of Christ 1543. after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 1873. ( a Princesse vertuously enclined ) she married Francis Dolphin , after King of France ; after whose death she returned into Scotland , and married Henry Stewart Duke of Albany , &c. Lord Darley , a comely Prince , sonne to Mathew Earle of Lennox ( pronepnoy to Henry the seuenth King of England ) to whom she bare Charles : Iames the sixth now our most gratious soueraigne king , afterwards comming into England , was receiued with greathumanity , and after she was captiue , at length put to death the eighth of February . 1586. 108 CAROLVS IACOBVS sixtus , succeeded to his mother in the yeare of the world 5537. in the yeare of Christ 1567. after the beginning of the raigne of Scotland 1897. a godly learned Prince , indued with singular knowledge , and a sincere professor of the Gospell : he married Anna daughter to Fredericke the second , King of Denmarke and Norway ; and Sophia onely daughter to Ulricus Duke of Meckleburgh , our most gratious Queene , who hath borne the royall and hopefull Prince , Henry Frederikc Prince of Wales , Duke of Rothsay and Cornewall , Earle Palatin of Chester , great Steward of Scotland , and Earle of Carect , the nineteenth of February , 1593. in the Castle of Striueling ; Elizabeth the nineteenth of August 1596. Charles Duke of Yorke and Albany , Earle of Rosse , the nineteenth of Nouember 1600. His Maiesty is now King of great Britaine , France and Ireland , defender of the faith . The Lord of his great mercy , for Christ his sake , encrease all royall vertues in his Highnesse , that he may remaine a comfort vnto Christs Church , within his Maiesties Dominions . To the Authour . THe Romane Tullie , Rose of all that race , Of facund Mercurs ; boldly vnaffrayde In Milos fence , to Clodius deface This sacred sentence in the Senate sayd : Nought only for our selues we 're borne to toyle , But for our friends , and for our natiue soyle . Thou wisely weighed hes these words I finde , Thou cairs to cleere thy countrey from obscure , To please thy friends , thou fram'st thy wit and minde , And by thy light thy countries light is pure : She brought thee forth to light , thou takes like paine , Who made thee see , to make her shine againe . W. T. A TRVE DESCRIPTION AND DIVISION OF THE WHOLE REALME OF SCOTLAND , of the situation , distance , and commoditie in euery part thereof , and of the principall Cities , Townes , Abbeyes , Palaces , Forts , Castles , Towres , and Riuers . SCOTLAND is diuided from England by certaine Marches , from the East Sea , called the Scottish Sea , to the West Seas , called the Ireland Sea , from the mouth of Tweed , vp the same riuer , till it come betwixt Werke and Hadden , where the March leaues the riuer , and passing South-west by dearne wayes , knowne onely to the inhabitants of that countrey , till it come to Redden-Burne , or Water ; and so vp the said Burne , while it come to the height of the Fellis of Cheuiot , and so west by the toppes of the Fellis , 'till a March ditch ( called the Meir ditch ) and so endlong in the Meir ditch , till it fall in the riuer of Carshope , and downe Carshope while it fall in Liddail , and downe Liddail while Eske and Liddail meete , and taking Aiffe at the north side of Eske , goeth endlong a ditch , while it come to the riuer of Sarke , and so downe Sarke while it fall in Sulwait , where the waters of Annan , and Nith , running seuerally in Sulway , all in one channell in the Irish Sea : maketh plentie of fishes : also by ●…owing and ebbing of furious tides , made through many lands ends , and partly by inundation of the said waters , there is very dangerous quicke sands , called Sulway sands , that no man may passe safely ouer them without perill ( except they haue one accustomed guide ) because of sinking holes that are frequent in them , being euery tyde ouerflowed with the Sea. The trauellers take their iourney through them at a low or ebbe water : if any man or horse fall in , his fellow trauellers casting their clokes or other clothes about that part where he sinkes in , and so running often about , the sand swels vp in a height , and so vomits out that which is fallen in the sinking hole . Vpon the banckes of Sulway in Iune and Iuly , the countrey people gather vp the sand within the flood-marke , bringing it to land , and laying it in great heapes . There after taking the salt spring water , and casting it vpon the sand ( with a certaine deuice ) causing the water to runne through the sand to a hollow pit , purposely made to receiue the water : which water being boiled in a little vessell of lead , there is made thereof good white salt , and sometimes gray salt , after the temperance of the weather . This part is called the salt ●…oats . The reason of the variation of the foresaid Marches was , vpon diuers debates and controuersies , arising betwixt the borderers of both the Realmes ; which being referred to the arbitr●…ment of sundry Commissioners , of both the Nations , were set down according to the power of the parties . Thus the Marches being set forth particularly , beginning at the Mers , wherein at the mouth of Tweede stands the auncient and martiall towne of Barwicke , and strong Castle , well walled and strengthned : the chiefe town of the Mers , the Scottish Sea on the East . Next is the towne of Haymouth , with the Castles of Aytowne , Hutonhall , Mander●…own , Cockburne , Easter and Wester Nisbets , with Wedderlie , the towne and Abbey of Coldingham by the Sea. South-west from Barwicke lies the towne of Duns , the towne of Langton with the Castle , the Abbeyes of Coldstreame and Ecklis demolished , the Castles of Craighame , the Earle of Homes principall Residence , and Wedderburne , the very strong Castle of Fastcastle . The riuers in the Mers are Ei , Whittitur , Blakitur , and Ednem water . This countrey is plenteous and abundant in all things necessary for the vse of man. West from the Mers lies Tewiotdail , Liddisdail , Ewisdail , Eskdail , Wauchopdail , and Annandail , taking their names from T●…ot , Liddil , Ews , Eske , Wauchope , and Annan , running seueraily through the said Dailes . In Tewiotdail lies the auncient strong Castle of Roxbourgh demolished . The Castle of Cesfurd , the Lord of Roxbourgh speciall Residence : the Castles of Little-deane , and Makerstowne , the auncient towne and Abbey of Kelso , with the Castle of Flures , the towne and Abbey of Iedbourgh , the Castles of Bown-iedburgh , Hunthill , Hu●…delie , Crailing , and Edyarstowne , with many other stone strong houses , tedious to describe , the Towne and Abbey of Melrose , the Towne and Abbey of Driburgh , the Towne of Hawicke , the Castles of Kaiwers and Branxholme , the Lord of Balcleuchs special Residence . The Riuers in Tewiotdail are Tiot , Tweed , Kail , Auchnom , Ied , Rewl , Slitricke , Borthuike and Eall . In Liddisdail is the auncient Castle of Harmetage : The Castles of Prickinhauch , Mangerstowne and Whittow In Eskdail is the Castle of Langhome . In Annundaile is the Castle of Lochmabane , inuironed with a number of Loches , replenished with diuers goodly fishes . The Lord Maxwels speciall residence . The townes of Annandaile are , the towne of Annanwich , a strong demolished Castle , the towne of Lochmabane , the towne of Moffat , the Castles of Bonschaw , Newby Bred-kirk , Hoddon , Howmanis , and Hoddamstans , next standeth the watch tower of Repentance . The Castles of Loch-house , Loch-wood , Speldings , Ros , and Kirk-Michael . The riuers in Annandaile are Annan , Sark , Kirtill milk , Ey , Kinnill , Ewan , and Moffat , a fertile countrie , and good for pastoring : West from Annandaile lies Niddisdaile , taking the name from the water of Nith , where stands the towne and Castle of Dumfreis with a pleasant bridge of large fine stones , the towne and castle of Sanquhar . The Lord Sanquhars speciall residence the town of Disdeare , the Colledge of Lincluden , the Abbey of Haliwode . In Niddisdaile are diuers ancient houses , and Castles demolished : And yet standing , the strong Castle of Carlauerock , the ancient Castle of Drumlainrig , and Disdeir , the ancient Castle of Mortoun demolished , the Castles of Closburn , the Castle of Torthorrall , the Lord of Torthorrails , principall residence , the Castles of Muswell and Glencarne . North from Niddisdaile a little inclining to the East lies Cliddisdaile . Cliddisdaile taking the name from the riuer Clyde beginning at Crawfurd moore , wherein lies Crawfert-Iohn , Dowglasdale , Ewendaile ; Carne-wath moore , Bodwell moore , the townes of Cliddisdaile are Lanarke , Hamilton towne and Palice . The Marquesse of Hamiltons speciall residence with the Castle demolished , Boithwell with the Colledge . The Citie and Castle of Glasgow , the Archbishop seate , verie populous with a sumptuous Cathedrall Church containing a lower and ouer Church , couered with lead , also a flourishing Vniuersitie in liberall sciences and Theology : adiacient to this Citie is a large stone bridge ouer the riuer Clide , wherein falles diuers other the riuers as Ewen , Dowglasse●… , Lismehago , there is an Abbey of the same name , the water of Ewan , the water of Cadder , the two Maidens , and Cutter water . In Cliddisdaile is the Castle of Crawfurde , the ancient Castle of Dowglasse , the Earle of Anguish principall residence . The Castles of Crawfurd-Iohn , Lamington , Couthley , the strong Castle of Draffan . This countrey is plentifull of all necessaries . In the ouer ward of Cliddisdaile , there is a hill or mount where ou●… springs three riuers , Tweed running in the Scottish Sea , Ann●…n in the Irish Sea , and Clide in the great Ocean , South-East from Cliddisdaile lyeth , Tweddaile , named so from Tweed , the speciall towne is Peblis with a religious house called the Crose Church , and the Castle of Drochellis , with the strong Castle of Neid●…eth , the Lord Z●…steris residence . The Castles of Traquhair , Grisum , Ormstoun , Horsburge , Dawicke , Dremmelger , Smithfield , Cringeltie , and Dearn-hall . The waters of Tweddaile are Tweede , Quair , Mamier , Higger , Tarffe , Lyne Peblis water , and Lithnops . This countrey is good for pasturing . East from Tweddaile lieth Heriot moore , Galla water , and Lauderdaile , with the towne and Castle of Lauder , taking the name from the water of Lidder , there being pendicles of other Shieres , I omit particularly to describe them , South from Tweddaile lieth forrest Shyre , ●…he speciall towne is Sel-kirk , three miles distant therefrom is the old Castle of Neuwark . There is two goodly Riuers , Zara , and Ethrik , both falling in Tweede , Zara cometh out of a great Loth called the Loth of the Lowis , wherein is abundāce of fishes , this country is also good for pasturing . Lothian , taking the name from Loth King of the Pi●…s is deuided from the Mers , by one part called the Easter peece , & by Lammer-mure on the South from Tweddaile on the Southwest . In East Lothian are the Castles of Dunglasse , Innerwick , Broxmouth , and Spot , Stanypeth , Waigtoun , Whittingham , Nunraw , Harmostoun , Saltoun , Kieto , Winttoun ; Ormestoun , the townes in Lothian are Dumbarre , with a stong Castle demolished the townes of Tuningham , and North Barwicke with an Abbey , Dirltoun and Castle , Fentoun towne and Castle , Seitoun towne and Pallace . The Earle of Winton speciall residence , the strong hold and Castle of Tamtalloun , the towne of Aber-Lady . Haddingtun towne and Abbey , the Castle of Lethingtoun , the Lord Thirlstans speciall residence , the the castle of Creichtoun , Sowtray Abbey , the towne of Prestoun with the castle , the towne of Prestoun pannes , the townes of Tranent , Mussilburgh , and Enneresk . The towne of Dalkenh with the castle , the Earle of Mortons speciall residence , the towne of New-botlie , with the Abbey : The Earle Lothians residence , the towne of Letth a commodious hauen for ships , and the Sea port of Edinburgh right well shipped . Edinburgh , the speciall and headburgh in Scotland , chiefe Iustice seate of the Realme , strongelie builded with stone . The most part of the houses are fiue , sixe , or seuen stories high , wherein is a goodly Vniuersity , florishing in all sciences , for instruction of the youth ; fortified on the West , with a most strong Castle builded vpon a high rock , kept by the Kings Captains , which Castle commands the said burgh , called of old the Maiden Castle , founded by Cruthneus Camelon , the first King of Picts . Before the birth of our Sauiour 330 yeares : Circuite vpon the East , South and West with a stone wall , and vpon the North strengthned with a Loch . It is also decored with the kings Pallace , and Abbey of Holy Rood-house vpon the East part : within seuen miles to this burgh , vpon the East , South and West parts , and within two miles vpon the North part , there is of Noble and Gentlemens Pallaces , Castles and strong builded Towres and stone houses ( not as yet nominated ) aboue an hundreth . Also the towne of Cramond , lying vpon Almond . The riuers in Lothiane , are Tene , Aske , the riuer of Leith , the water of Almond , Lothiane is very plenteous & right abundant in all things necessary for the vse and sustentation of man. Next East Lothian lies in West Lothian , the Shirifdome of Linlithgow , with the towne of Linlithgow , and the most pleasant Kings Pallace , with a very commodious Parke and Loch vnder the Pallace wall . Not farre distant is the strong Fortresse and Castle of Blacknesse , inuironed with the Sea. The ancient demolished Castle of Abercorne , the towne of the Queenes ferry . The Castles of Dundas , Barnbugall , Cragiehall , Didestowne , Newlistowne , the towne of Kirklistown , the Castles of Neddrie , Cadder , Torphican , Kinneil , the towne of Bareston Nes. Auenne water , whereon there is a stone bridge , deuides Sterling shire from west Lothean at the South : the Firth or Forth at the East ; which Firth piece and prede becommes narrow , till it grow to the quantity of a reasonable Riuer , neerer vnto Striueling bridge . There is but one water worthy to make account of , that runnes thorow it , named Carron . There are two little earthen knols , builded as may appeare , by men , ( being auncient monuments ) called Duini pacis , that is , the knols of peace . Two miles downward vpon the same water , there is a round building without lime , made of hard stone , in such sort that one part of the vppermost stones i●…denied with the stone that lies directly vnder it ; so that the whole worke , by this coniunction mutuall , and burthen of the stones , vphold it selfe ; growing narrow by little and little from the ground to the head , where it is open like a Doue-coat . The common people call it Anthurs Ouen . Vpon Carson was situate the famous Citie of Camelon , chiefe citie of the Pictes , founded by Cruthneus Camelon , afore the birth of Christ three hundred and thirty yeares , destroyed and abolished by King Kenneth the great , about the yeare of Christ 846. In this country is the Abbey of Manwell ; the Castles of Haning , Powerile , and Cummernald , the Earle of Wigtowns Residence , with the woode , the ●…ore wood , and tore wood side , the towne of Falkirk , the Castles of Kers , and Calender , the Earle of Linlithgow Residence . The Castles of Donipace , Harbertshire , west Quarter , Arth , Poffowles , Carnoke , Bruse Castle , the Palace of Elphigstowne , the Lord Elphingstones residence , the Castles and Towers of Easter and Wester Polmais , and Chattrishall . the auncient towne , with the most strong fortiesse and Castle , and sumptuous Palace of Striueling , builded vpon a high rock , with a pleasant and commodious Parke vnder the Castle wall . In this shire is the Castles and Towres of Towch , Gargunnok , Broich , Lekke , Dundaffe , Kilsyith , Manners , and Powes . Beyond the bridge of Striueling lies the Abbey of Cambus , Kinneth , with the Castle , the Towne and Castle of Alloway , the Towne and Castle of Clackmannan , the Castles of Tulliallan & Sawchy , Blair , Valeyfeild , Kinnedder , Aikinhed , Menstre , the town and Abbey of Culrosh , with the new builded Palace . Next adiacent to Striueling shire lies Lennox , diuided from the Barony of Renfrew , by Clyde : from Glasgow , by the water of Heluin , at the foote of the hilles of Grangebean , Loch-lomond runnes downe a low valley foure and twenty miles of length , and eight of breadth , hauing more then twenty foure Islands within the same . This Lo●… besides abundance of other fishes , hath a kinde of fish of the owne , named Pollac , very pleasant to eate : the water of Leuin runneth out of Loch-lomond Southward , which water hath giuen the name to the country , running so strong , that no man ( without danger ) may passe the same . Lenin entreth into Clyde , neere to the most strong and inuincible fortresse and Castle of Dumbarton , standing vpon very high Rockes , with abundance of fresh water springs , one spring being in Summer wholsome cold , and in winter sweete , warme : no rocke nor hill , being within more as a mile to the foresaid strength and Castle . Next adiacent is the towne of Dunbarton , pleasantly situate vpon the Riuer of Leuin , the principall towne in the Duchie of Lennox ; within the which there is many strong Castles , Towers and stone houses , as the Castles and Towers of Kirkmichael , Rosdo , Tarbat , Arnecaple , Kilmahow , Ardeth , Kilmarannoch , Buquhannane , Drummakeil , Cragiuarne , Ballindalloch , Kilcroch , Balglas , Fentrie , Duntreith , Craigbarnut , Clorct Woodhed , Cochnoch , Balquhannaran , Drumry , Dunglas with sundry others tedious to declare . The Duke of Lennox is superior to the most part of the Gentlemen inhabitants in this countrey , and many in the Barony . Next lies the Barony of Renfrew , taking the name from the towne of Renfrew , wherein the Session of Iustice is kept to the Countrey . It is diuided in the midst by two waters , both called Carth. The towne of Paislay pleasantly situate vpon the riuer Carth , with the Abbey thereof , the Earle of Abircornes speciall Residence , with most pleasant Orchards and Gardens . In this countrey lies the Castle of Sempil , the Lord Sempils special Residence , with the Castles and Towers of Crukstone , Marns , Cathcart , Hag , vpper Pollok and nether Polloke , Hakket , the Lord Ros residence . Cardonald the Lord of Blantyrs residence , Blackhall , Caldwel , Stanelie , Ellerslie , Ihonstown , Waterstowne , Ramfuley , Dochail , Raalstowne , Biltries , Craganis , Housloun , Barrrochane , Dargewell , Blackstoun , Selwiland , Walkinshaw , Inchchennā , Arskin , Bishoptoun Boghall , Funlastown , New werke , Grinoke , Ardgowan , Glengarnoch , Kilburne , & Lady-land , with many others , strong stone houses tedious to rehearse . These countries aforesaid are plenteous in cornes bestiall and fishings . Next lies Cuningham , deuided from Kyle , by the water of Vrwine : at the foote thereof is situate the towne of Vrwine , a goodly Marchant towne , with a strong stone bridge . The towne of Kilmarnocke , the towne and castle of Kilmaris , the Earle of Glencarnes residence , the town & castle of Newmils , the towne of Salt Coats , where great store of white Salt is made , the towne of Largs , the town and Abbey of Kilwinning , the Castle of Deane the Lord Boyds residēce , the Castle & Palace of Lowdon the Lord Lowdons speciall residence , the castles of Eglintowne , Kirelaw , Ardrossin , the Earle of Eglingtowns residence , Cuningham-head , Blair , Robertland , Gyffin , Eastwood , Calwel , Rowallen , Law , Fairly , Kelburne , Arneil , Knock , Skelmurly . In the towne of Vrwine the Iudge Ordinary holdes iustice . Kyle and Cuningham were called of olde Silu●…a . Their countries are fertile in cornes and bestiall . Next lies Kyle , diuided from Carricke , by the water downe , which descends out of Loch-downe , wherin there is a strong tower builded vpon an Isle . This water runnes West in the Firth of Clyde , in the midst of Kyle runnes the water of Air , which diuides Kyle in Kings Kyle , and Kyle Stewart , a part of the Princes principalitie . At the mouth of the water , on the South side is situate the auncient Marchant towne of Air , taking the name from the water , the principall Bourgh of the whole Shire , pleasantly builded in a plaine field , hard on the Sea , very populous , and well shipped , with faire stone houses , most couered with blew sklate , with a large stone bridge , passing to the new town of Air , with a castle and Palace . The towne and castle of Machling , the town and castle of Cumnoke , the towne of Preseike , the iustice seate of Kyle Stewart , the townes of Gastown and Ricardtown , the castles of Dundonald , Sundrum , the Lord of Cathearts residence . The Castles of Ochiltrie , with the towne , the Lord Ochiltres residence . The castles of Caprintown , Gaitgirth , Cragie , Entirkign , Gastown , Sesnocke , Carnal , Bar , Loc●…oreis , Terringean Cars , Drongane , Sorne , Dregornie , Sornbeg , Monton , Afflecke and Barskymmyn , the Loch of Martuane , with a strong tower . Loch fergus , with an Isle , with many growing trees , where great plenty of Herons resort , with the Loch of Feal : there is a decayed Monastry in it . The Riuers in Kyle are Air , Luggar , Feal and Sesnocke , Luggar and Feal runnes in the water of Air , and so in the Firth of Clyde . The water of Sesnocke runnes in the water of Vruing , and so in Clyde . This countrey abounds in strong & valiant men , where was borne the most renowned and valiant Champion William Wallace , in the Barony called Ricardtown , then his fathers Style , thereafter of Craigy and Ricardtowne . Fiue miles from Air is a place called Coels field , where the King of Britons called Coell was killed , by the Scots and Pictes , vpon the water of Dewne . This countrey is plenteous of bestiall , reasonably corned with abundance of Cornes . Next Kyle lies Carrick , bordering with Galloway , vnder Lochrean , of old called Loch-calpin , declyning while it come to Clydis-firth : in Carricke are two goodly waters , plenteous of fishes , the water of Stinchar , at the foot thereof stands the towne of Ballintrea ; where is great plentie of Herrings and other fishes , the castles of Arstinchar , Craigneil , builded vpon a strong rocke with the castle of Knockdolean . Vpon the water of Girwane are the castles of Bargany , Blairquhan , Dalwharran , Cassils , Dunure , the Earle of Cassilis residence . The castles of the Koe , Ardmillanx , Careltowne , Killoquhan , Baltessane , Keirs , Auchendrane , the abbey of Corsraguel . There was a goodly Merchant towne , of olde called Carrike , founded by Caratake King of Scots , whereof remaines nothing : the principall towne is now Mayeboll , where the Iudge ordinary holds iustice . Next adiacent with Carricke lies Galloway , of olde called Brigantia , bordering with Niddisdail , almost declyning to the South ; the shire whereof inclosed , all the rest of that side of Scotland is more plentifull store of bestiall Thane cornes . The waters of Galloway are Vre , Dee , Terfe , Fleit , Kenne , Cree , and Losse ; which runne all in the Ireland Sea. There is almost no great hils in Galloway , but it is full of craggie knols : the waters gathering together in the valleyes betwixt those knols , make almost innumerable Loches ; from whence the first floud that comes before the autumnall Equinoctiall , causeth such abundance of waters to run , that there come forth of the said Loches incredible number of Eeles , and are taken by the countrimen in wand creeles , who salting them , obtaine no small gaine thereby . The farthest part of that side is the head , called Nouantum , vnder the which there is a hauen at the mouth of the water of Lossie named Rerigonins . In the other side of Galloway , ouer against this hauen from Clyddis-forth , there enters another hauen named commonly Lochryen , or Vidogora : all that lieth betwixt those two hauens , the countrey people call the Rynes , that is , the point of Galloway : Also Nouantum , the M●…le , that is , the Becke , In Galloway are the townes of Kirkcubright well situate for a merchant towne a good Harbery , with a Castle Whithorne is the Bishops seat there . Wigtoun a goodly Market town , the towne of Innermessane , Minigooff , and Saint Iohns Clachane . The Abbey of new Abbey Glenluse , Sall-Syde , Dundrenan , and Tongland , the Castles of the Treaue , Barcloy , Hillis , Orchartoun , Bomby in Lochfergus , Cumpstoun , Cardenes , Wreythis , Kenmure , Kirkgunze . The great strength and Castle of Crowgiltoun , builded on a rocke hard on the Sea , the Castles of Garleis , Large , the greate Castle of Clare , the Castles of Dunskaye , Corsell , Lochnee , the Loches of Galloway are Ruhinfranco , Carlingwork , Myretoun which neuer freezes , for any frost that chances . The westmost of the hils of Grangebean make the border of Lennox , the hilles are cutted by a little bosome of the Sea named for the shortnesse thereof Gerloch at the entrie thereof standeth the Castle of Roseneth , beyond this Loch there is a greater Loch named from the water that runneth in it Lochlowng , this water is the March betweene Lennox and Cowall , this Cowall , Argyle , and Knapdall altogether called Argyle are deuided in many parts by many narrow creekes that run out of the firth of Clyde into them . In Cowall is the Castle and towne of Dunnone , where is the Bishop of Argyle his seate , there is one most notable Loch called Loch fyne , which is in length threescore miles : vpon Lochfyne is situate the Castle Palace and towne of Inraray , the principall residence of the Earle of Argyle : Also doth the Sheriffe of Argyle keepe his Courts of Iustice , this Loch is most plentifull of Herings and all other fishes : On this Loch are situate diuers Castles and Gentlemens places , as Castle Lauchlane , the Otter and Dunetrewne in Knapdall is Loghaw , and therein a little Ile where there is a strong Castle of the same name , there is also the Castle of Tarbat . In Argyle is the strong Castle of Carriek , builded vpon a rocke , within Loch goyle , there is also the Colledge of Kilmun , the water of Awe runneth out of Loch-how , and is the onely water of all that countrey that doe run in the Dewcalidon Sea. South and by VVest from Knapdall lieth Kantere : The head land of the countrey right ouer against Ireland , deuided by the sea , of the breath of sixteen miles onely . In Kantere is the Castles of Dunauerty , and Sadell , the towne and Castle of Kilkerraine , situate in the Loch of the same name Kantere is more long then broad , ioyning to Knapdal by so narrow a throat about one mile of breadth , which ground is sandy , and lieth so plaine and low that Marriners drawing along , their vessels as gallies and boats through it makes their iourney a great deale shorter then to passe about Kintire which is the common passage Lorne lies next , & Contaygne with Argyla on the backe thereof where standeth the most ancient Castle of Dunestaffage , in which were the Kinges of Scotland in old times crowned , where also the Marble fatall Chaire remained more then one thousand yeares . In Lorne are also the Castles of Carnacery , and that of Makdules built vpon a right rockie mountaine . The countrie of Argyle , Knapdall & Cowell do abound of bestiall , kye , sheepe and great store of venison , and abundant in fishes . Lorne marcheth still with Argyle vntill it come to Haber , or rather Loch-haber : A plaine countrey not vnfruitfull . The countrey where the hilles of Grangebean are , most easie to be trauelled , named broad Alben , that is to say , the highest part of Scotland . And the highest part ●…of broad-Albin is called Drumalbin , that is the backe of Scotland so termed . For forth of the backe waters doe run in both the seas . Some to the North , and some South . Habre or rather Lochaber marcheth with Badzenoch , which hath as it were a backe running out through the midst of it , which spouts forth waters in both the seas , Lochaber marching with Badzenoch , tending by little and little towards the Deucalidon sea , a country aboundant in cornes and great plenty of fishes , for besides the abundance of fresh water fishes produced by a great number ot waters , the Sea runnes within the countrey , in a long channell , and being narrow at the mouth , the water kept in betwixt two high bankes , and spreading wide inward , makes the forme of a Stanke , or rather of a Loch , a place where ships may lie sure as in a hauen adiacent with Calkmananshire , lies Fyffe , beginning at the towne of Torre-burne , with the castles of Torre , Cromby , Pickfirran , Pictincreiff , the towne of Dumfermling and Abbey thereof , founded by King Dauid the first , the Kings of Scotland were buried there a long time , the Pallace therof now repaired by the Queenes Maiesties cōmand , & charges where the Earle of Dumfermling Chancellor of Scotland hath his residence . The towne of Lymkellis with the castle of Rossynh , the towne of the Queens ferry vpon the North. In the middle of Forth , vpon a rocke is the fortresse & decayed castle of Inchgaruy . By East lies in the same water Saint Colmis Inch , with a demolished Abbey , abundant with conies , and good pasturing for sheepe . Next in the mid Firth lies Inchkeith with a demolished Fortresse fertile of conies , and good for pasturing of sheepe . East from Inchkeith , within Forth lies a very high and big Rocke inuironed with the Sea ; called the Basse , inuincible hauing vpon the top a fresh spring where the Solane geese repaires much , and are very profitable to the owner of the said strength . Next the Basse in the mouth of Forth lies the I le of May a mile long , and three quarters of a mile in breadth , there was a religious house , with many fresh water springs , with a fresh Loch abundant with Eeles : This I le is a goodly refuge for saylers in time of tempest . By East the I le of May twelue miles from all land in the German seas , lies a great hidden rocke called Inchcape , very dangerous for nauigators , because it is ouerflowed euery tide . It is reported in old times vpon the said rocke , there was a Bel fixed vpon a tree or timber , which rang continually , being moued by the Sea , giuing notice to the saylers of the danger . This Bell or Clocke was put there , and maintained by the Abbot of Aber-brothok , and being taken downe by a Sea Pirote , who a yeare thereafter perished vpon the same rocke with ship and goods in the righteous iudgement of God. Returning to the ancient towne of Innerkething , adioyning thereto is the most comfortable and safe refuge for saylers in time of storme , called Saint Margarets hope . The castles of Dunnybirsill , Dalgatie , and Fordell , the towne and castel of Aberdour , the Loch of Cowstoun , the castell of Orterstoun , the towne of Brunt-Iland , with the castle , the castels of Balmuto , Balwery , Hal-randes , and Raith . The towne and castell of Kingrne , the castles of Seyfield , and Abbots-hall : the towne of Kirkealdy , the castles of Bogy & Rauens-houch , the Lord Sinclairis speciall residence , towne of Dysart , the towne of VVesterwemis and the castle , the castle of Easterwemis , the Lord Colweil chiefe residence , the townes of Buckhauen , and Lewynis mouth , so named from the riuer of Lewin out which comes of Loch-Lewin , the towne of Kenneway , the castles of Dury , Lundy and Largow , with the towne thereof , the castles of Rires , Bulchares , and Kinnochar , with the Loch thereof , the towne of Earles ferry , the castles of Kelly and Ardrosse , towne of Eliot . The towne and castles of Saint Monanes , Carnbie , and Balkaskie , the towne and Abbey of Pictonweme , the Lord of Pictonwemes residence , the townes of Anstruther with the castle , the castles of Bofy , Pitterthy , the townes of Innergelly , and Siluer-dikes : the castles of Erdry , third part , West-Berns , the towne of Craile , with the Prouestry and demolished castle , the castles and towres of Balcomy , Wormestoun , Randerstoun , Newhall , Camno , Kipper , Pitmille , Kinkell , Strawithy , Lamberletham , Lachochar . The Citie of Sanctandros , the Metropolitane and Archbishops Seat , with a strong Castle and Abbey decored with three Vniuersities for learning in all sciences . In old time the Churches in this Citie most curionsly and sumptuously builded , and now decayed from this Citie West vpon the water of Eddin lies the Castles of Nydy , Rumgary , Dairsey , Blebo . The towne of Cowper , the chiefe Iustice seate , the Castle of Corstoun , the Castle of Struther , the Lord Lendsayes principall residence , the Castles of Inglishtarwet , Craighall , Bruntoun , Balgony , the towne of Merkinsche , the towne of Falkland with the kings Palace , with a pleasant parke aboundant , with Deares and other wilde beasts . The towne Stramiglo with the Castle , the Loch of Rossy , with the Tower thereof Hill-Carney and Nachtoun . The two promontories called the Loumonds , the towne of Leslie with the Castle , the Castles of Straith-Endrie , and Arnat , the Loch of Inchgaw , with the Castle within , the Castles of Dowhill , Killerny , Ady , Cleisch , the Loch of Loch-lewin with a strong Castle , aboundant in all fresh fishes , with the New-house adiacent thereto , the Castle of Burley , the Lord Burleyes residence , the Castle of Balluaird , the towne of Newbrough , the Abbey of Lundors , the Lord of Lundors residence . The Castle of Bambreich , the Earle of Routhous speciall residence . The Abbey of Balmerinoch , The Castles of Collarny , Ferne , Perbroth , Mordocarny , Maquhany , Forret , Kynneir , the towne of Lucers , with the Castle , the Castles of Earleshall , Colluthy , the townes of East and West Ferreis , the riuers in Fyiff are Lewin , Eddin , Ore , Lochty , the two Quichis , the waters of Largo , Kendlie , and Stramiglo . This countrey is abundant in cornes , fruits bestiall , and all sort of fishes , with abundance of coale and salt : and all the aforesaid Sea townes , very populous and wel shipped . Straitherne taking name from Erne , which runneth out of Locherne . The principal country of Perth-shire is diuided on the South from part of Fiffe , Kinroshire & Clakmananshire by the Ochel hilles , the tops of the hils seruing for march : for as the water springs doe fall towards the North , they belong to Straithern , and as they fall towards the South they appertaine to Kinroshire , Culroshire , and Clakmananshire , by ambitiō diuided : in old times all their three shires were vnder the iurisdiction of Perth . The Stewartrie of Mentieth , liand in Perth shire , wherein lies the Abbey of Inch-mahomo with the castles and towers of Cardrose , Archopple , Balinton , Quolze , Burnbanke , Row , Keir , Knockhill , Calendar , Leny , Cambusmore , Torre and Lainricke , lying vpon Teith water , giuing the name to Montieth . The strong Fort and castle of Downe . Nowtowne , Argatie and Kirk-bryd , the Earle of Monteiths residence . Next lies in Perthshire , the citie of Dumblane , the Bishop of Dumblans residence , the castles and towers of Kippinrose , Cromlix , Buttergasse and castle Campbell . Returning to the towne of Abirnethy , sometime the Metropolitane citie of the Pictes , liand in Straithern , marching with Fiffe , where the Earle of Angusse hath there Sepulchres . By Mugdrum and Balgony runneth the riuer of Erne in Tay , which is the greatest riuer in Scotland . At the foote of the Ochellis lies the castles & towers of Craigpotte , & Knight-potte , Fordel , Ardrose Balmanno , Exmagirdle and Forgon , where the water of Meth flowed from the Ochellis , giuing name to the castle of Innermeth , the Lord of Innermeths residence . The castles and Towers of Condie , Keltie , Garuoke , Duncrub , Newtowne , Glenaigles , the towne of Doning and Auchtirardour , the castle of Kincardin , the Earle of Montroze speciall residence , the castles of nether Gaske and Tullibardin , the Earle of Tullibardin speciall residence , the castles and towers of Aurchtermachonie , Orchell , Pannels , Ardoch , Braikoch and Craigrossie . The castle of Drymmen , the Earle of Perths residence : the castles and towers of Balloch , Petkellany , and Boreland . Betwixt Erne and Tay lieth Easter and Wester Rindes : the castles and towers of Fingaske , Kinmonth , Elcho Abbey and castle , Easter and Wester Montcreiffis , Malar , Petthewles , Balhoussie : the ancient bourgh of Perth , pleasantly situate vpon the riuer of Tay , betwixt two commodious greene fields or Inches , founded by King William , sirnamed the Lion , after the abolishing of the castle of Bertha by inundation of waters , about the yeare of Christ 1210. the King giuing great and ample priuiledges to the said burgh , decored with a large and long stone bridge ouer Tay , of eleuen Arches , partly decayed , & now reedifying ; hauing reasonable commodities for shipping , with goodly fishings , of olde decored with sundry Monasteries , and specially the Charterhouse now demolished . The strong castle of Dupplin , the Lord Oliphants speciall residence : the castles of Huntingtore ( of olde called Ruthwen ) the castles and towers of Methwen , Bachilton , Logyalmond , Cultmalindis , Tibbermure , Tibbermallow , Keillour , Gorthy , Trewn and Strowane , the town of Fowlis , the castles and towers of Cultoquhay . Abircarny , Inchbreky , Monyuard , Carriwechter , Fordee , Comrre , Williamstowne and Durndone , with the town of Creiffe , Octhirtyre and Milnabe : the abbey of Incheffrey , the Lord of Incheffreyes residence , Innerpeffry , the Lord of Mathertyes speciall dwelling . Betwixt Almond and Tay lies the Stormond of Straitherne , wherein is the castles and towres of Strathurd vpper Bāchels , Inchstrewy , Ochtirgewin , Arlywicht Tullibeltane , Innernytie , Inchstuthil , Murthlie , the auncient demolished castle of Kinclewin , where the water of Ila runneth in Tay. In their countries are the riuers of Farg , Meth , Erne , Vrdachy , Schiochy , and Lochtre , falling in Almond , where Lous werke made of stone , receiues a great channell of water , passing to Perth , whereon stands many mils , and filling the ditches to Spey tower , the rest of Perth is compassed with a stone wal . The citie of Dunkeld the Bishops seat situate vpon Tay , with little Dunkeld , the water of Brane fals in Tay , giuing the name to Straitbrane , wherein is the castle of Trocharry : adiacent to Dunkeld lies the castles and towers of Rotmell , Carny , Cluny , Loch and castle Gowrdy , Mekilhour , Lethandy , Glesclun , Drumlochy , Gormoke , Blair , Ardblair , Craighall , Rettray and Forde . In Straithardell , named from the water of Ardell , lies the castles and towers of Morkley , Assintulle , and Innerthrosky : in Athole liand in Perthshire , is the great and strong castle of Blair , the Earle of Atholes speciall residence ; the castles and towers of Strowane , Ballachan , Balladmyn , the olde demolished castle of Muling , the old demolished castle of Logyrait , where the water of Tynmell , flowers in Tay , the Castles of Garntully , the strong fortresse of Garth vpon a great rock , the Castles of Weme , Balloch , Finlarge , Glanurquhar , Lawers , and Miggerny in Glenlyon where the water of Lyon runneth in Tay. The water of Tay commeth forth of Lochtay , in Broad-Albin , which Loch is foure and twentie miles of length . There is other countries ( as Rannoch , Balquhidder ) lying betwixt Athole , Argyle , Lorne and Lochaber vnknowne to the Author . Returning to Gowry , and the rest of Perthshire lying betwix Tay and Angusse , where lies the Castles and Towers of Stobhall , Campsey , Byrs , Petcur , Ruthwens , Banff , Camno , Balgillo , Moncur , Inchstur , the ancient and renowned Abbey of Scone , where the kings of Scotland were crowned , from the exterminion of the Picts , vnto the time of King Robert Bruse , at which time the fatall Marble chaire was transported to Westminster by Edward the first ( surnamed Longshanks ) King of England . This Abbey was sumptuously builded , now wholy decayed : a part whereof is reedified , and pleasantly repaired by the Lord of Scone , being his speciall residence : The Castles and towres of Poknyll , Pitsindy , Balthiok , Rait , Kilspindie , Fingask , Kynnarde , Meginshe , Murey , Hill , Petfour , the towne and Pallace of Arroll , the Earle of Arrols residence , Leyis , Inchmartine , Monorgund , Huntley and Innergowry . These countreyes ( all in Perthshire ) are right plenteous and abundant in all kind of cornes , bestiall , and all sort of fishes , and all other necessaries for the sustentation of man , and Athole abounds in all kind of wild beasts and fowles with wild horses . Next adiacent to Gowry lies Angusse , beginning at the bridge of Innergowry , with the Castle of Fowles , the Lord Grayes residence , the Castles of Balfour , Lundy , and Dinnun . The towne of Kethens , the towne and Abbey of Copar , the Castle of Newtyle , the towne and Castle of Glammis , the Lord Glammis speciall residence . The towne of Killy-mure , the Castles and Towers of Lowry , Brigtoun , Thorntoun , Innerrichtie , Kilkaudrum and Quich , Clouoy , with parks and woods , Innerquharitie , and Quich , Glen-Ilay , Wain , Dysart , Rossie , the Castle of Fyn-heauin , the Earle of Crawfurds speciall residence . The Castles and Towers of Melgund , Flemyngtoun , Woodwre , Bannabreich , old Bar , with the Parke Carrestoun and Balhall , the Citie and Castle of Brechin the Bishops residence . The Castles and Towers of Dun , Craig , Edzell , Balzordy , and Newtoun . The towne or brugh of Dunde , strongly builded with stone houses , right populous , and industrious with good shipping , and a commodious hauen : a pleasant Church with a right high stone steeple , the castles of Duddope and Autherhouse , the Earle of Buquhans special residence . The Castles & towers of Strickmartin , Clawers , Mayns , wester Ogyll , Ballumby , and Claypottes , the strong fortresse & Castle of Bruchty , vpon a rocke inuironed with the Sea. The townes of north Ferrey , and Monyfuth , the Castles and townes of Auchinleck , Easter and Wester Powreis , Glen , Drumkilbo , and Teling , The towne of Forfarre with a demolished Castle , with a Loch and an I le therein with a Tower , Cassie , Logymegle , Barnzstaird , Innerkelour , the demolished Abbey of Resenneth , with a Loch , and the Loch of Reskobow , the Castles and Towers of Woodend , Balmeshannoch , Hakerstoun ; Balmady , with a Loch Balgayis demolished , the Castles and Towers of Turings , Carsegowny , Guthrie , Garne , Fernell , and Boshane : The Lord Ogilbies speciall residence , the townes of Barre , and Panbryde ; the Castles of Duniken , Pammure ; and Kelly , the towne and ancient Abbey of Abirtrothok ; with the Castle , the Castle of Lethame , and Ethy ; where a Falcon engendes yearely vpon a high rocke past memorie of man. The Castles and Towers of Enblackmond , Callistoun , Bisack , Ardbeky , and the red Castle , the Castles and Towers of Dunnenald , Vsum , Craig , Bonytoun and Kinnarde . The ancient towne of Mont-Rosse , with a commodious harbery for shipping , and well shipped , this towne is all builded with stone , and populous , aboundant with all kinde of fishes : the towne and Castle of olde Mount-Rosse , and the Castle of Westerbracky . The riuers in Anglusse are the water of Innergowery deuiding Gowry from Angusse : The riuers of Dichty , Carbat , Ila , Brothat Lunnen , North and South Askis . This countrey of Angusse is plentifull and abundant in all kinde of cornes great store of bestiall , with all sort of fishes withall other commodities necessary for man. Next adiacent to Angus is the Mernis , where are the townes Kincardin , Fordoun , & Beruy , Cowey and Stanehyue , Galguein , with the Castles of Halgrein and Lowristoun , the most strong Castle of Dunotter , with many pleasant buildings within the same , situate vpon a Rocke , inuironed with the Ocean sea , and well furnished with Ordinance and all warlike prouision for defence , the Earle Martiall his residence , with the Castle Fatteresso , there is also the Castles of Glenberuy , Puttarrow , Arbuthnet , Thornntoun , Balbegenat , Hakertoun , Morphie , Benholme , Allardes and Maters . This countrey is plentious of Beere , and wheat , abounding in bestiall and fishes : The Barrons and Gentlemen deteste contention in law , remitting and submitting alwaies their actions debatable , to amicable arbitrements among themselues . North from the Mernis is the mouth of the water of Dee , where is situate the ancient burgh and , merchant towne of Abirdene , wel builded & renowned for the Salmond-fishing thereof , well shipped , it hath a florishing Vniueruersitie for instruction of the youth , a pleasant bridge builded of stones , at the mouth of the riuer Done , is situate the old Citie of Aberdone , which is the Bishops seate , where also is a goodly Colledge for learning in sciences specially in Philosophy . Betweene Dee and Done beginneth the countrey of Mar , growing alwaies wider and wider till it be threescore miles length and comes to Badezenoch . In Mar is the towne of Kinkardin of Neil , the Castles of Drum , Leyes , Skein , Monimusk , Halforrest , the towne of Kyntor , the Castles of Abirgeldy , Lenturke , Corsse , Aslun , Kyndrymme , Innerbuchat , Cluny , Corsinda , Muchall , Cragywar , Torry and Cowgarth , Klenkindy , Buchholly , and New. Lochaber , Badzenoch and Mar , comprehends the breadth of Scotland betweene the two Seas . Next Mar vpon the North lies the Gareoch , wherein is the towne of Innerwry . The Castles of Balquhan , Fethernere , Caskybane , Auchenhuiff , Meldrum , Pitcaple , Pittodrie , Harthill , not farre distant is the most high mountaine of Bannachy , the highest mountaine in the North for saylers , comming from the Easter seas , takes vp land first by this mountaine . The Castles of Lesly and Wardens , the ancient Castle of Dinnedure vpon a high mountaine called the Golden Mountaine , by reason of the sheepe that pastures thereupon : Their teeth are so extraordinary yealow , as if they were coloured with gold , there is also the Castle of Drumminor , the Lord Forbes residence . Next Gareoch vpon the North-East lies Bucquhan , wherein is situate the towne of Newburgh , vpon the water of Itham , aboundant in Salmond and other fishes , the townes of Peterhead and Frisselburgh , the Castles of Fophern , Asselmond , Arnage , Tochone , Kelly , Straloch , Vdney , & vpon the North-East side therof there is a rocke where are found sundry well coloured stones of diuers hewes , very pleasant , some quadrant pointed , and transparant , resembling much the orientall Diamond for they are proued to be better then eyther the Virginean or the Bohemian Diamond . The time of the comming of Hengistus in Britaine , there came with him one Noble Germane Prince called Woden , about the yeare of Christ 477. ( as writeth Pomarius ) who adioyning their forces with Vortiger , then King of the Britaine , against the Scots and Picts , continuing in their fury were called Vodenay , conforme to the old Saxon language ( as writeth Olaus magnus , Beda and Vliterpius ) of whom by long progression and abbreuiation of speech is descended the ancient name of Vdny . There are also the Castles of Pitmedden , Hadde , Gicht , Fywie , the ancient Castle of Slanes , watterton , Enderrugy , with the strong Castle of the Craig of Enderrugy , The Castles of Fillorth , Pitsligo , Feddreth , Towy , Balquhaly , Dalgatie , the tower of Torrey , and the Castle of Mures . This countrey stretches farthest in the Germane seas of all the countries of Scotland fertile in store , and cornes : And in it selfe sufficient in all other commodities necessary for the countrey , there is abundance of Salmon and other fishes taken in all the waters thereof , except the water of Rattry , whereunto this day there was neuer any Salmon seene . Next Buehquhan vpon the North lies Boyne , and Enze in Boyne . In Boyne is the towne of Bamst , and Castle thereof , situate vpon the riuer of Diuern , there is also the Castles of Boyne , Findetar , and Bogygieht , with the towne of Culane , situate vpon the sea coast . Next lies the lands of Straithbogy , where is the Castle and Pallace of Straithbogy , the speciall residence of the Marquesse of Huntley , the Castles of Fendrough , Pitlurge , Carnbarrow , Rothemay , the Lord Saltouns chiefe residence , Kinnardi , Crombie , Achindore , Lesmore , Balwany , Blarsindy , Drymmyn , Dusky , Ballindalloch , Balla Castle and Aikenway , these foresaid countries are plenteous in cornes , bestiall , and in fishings . Next vpon the North is the water Spey , abundant in Salmond and all new fishes , Endlong Spey lies Murrey-Land , wherein is situate the Citie of Elgyn vpon the water of Lossy , the Bishop of Murreyes seat and speciall residence , with a Church most curiously and sumptuously builded , which now in part decayes . In Murrey are many strong Castles & other strong houses , as the Castles of Blairy , Monynesse , the ancient strong Castle of Vrquhart , the Castles of Spynay with a pleasant Loch abounding in fishes , the Castles of Innes and Duffus , the Castle and towne of Forres , the great Castle of Tornuaye , the principall residence of the Earle of Murrey : The Castles of Cadall and Kilrauicke with diuers Gentlemens strong stone houses adiacent about the towne of olde Erne . In Murrey are two famous Abbeyes , Pluscardy , and Kinlus , the Castle of Louat the Lord Louats residence . There is also the most ancient towne of Innernes , and the strong Castles thereof situate on the water of Naes , which descends from a Loch , named Loch Naes thirtie foure miles in length : this water of Naes is alwaies warme , and neuer freezeth , in such sort as in winter time , yee falling into it is dissolued by the heat therof : West from Lochnes , there lies eight miles of continent ground : And that small peece is the onely impediment that the Seas ioyne not , and make the remanent of Scotland an Iland : for all the land that lies betwixt the strait and the Deucalidon Sea , is cutte by creekes and Loches of salt water running into the land . From the mouth of Naesse , where it enters in the Germane Sea , North lies Rosse , shooting in the Sea in great Promontories or heads . The countrey of Rosse is of greater length nor breadth , extending from the Germane to the Deucalidon Sea , where it riseth in craggy and wilde hils , and yet in the plaine fields thereof , there is as great fertilitie of corne as in any other part of Scotland . There is in Rosse pleasant dales with waters , & Loches full of fishes , specially Lochbroome : It is broad at the Deucalidon sea , and growes narrow by little and little turning Southward from the other shore , the Germane Sea ( winning the selfe an entrie betwixt high clintes ) runs within the land in a wide bosome , and makes an healthfull port and sure refuge against all tempests and stormes : the entrie of it is easie , and within it is a very sure hauen , against all iniuries of Sea , and a hauen for great nauies of ships . Loch-broome is abundant of Salmond and all other fishes . The townes in Rosse are the City of the Channory , the Bishops seat with a strong Castle , the towne of Rosemarky , the Castles of Read-castle , Dingwall , the Abbey of Bewly , the castles of Cromarty , Miltoun , Fowlis , Ballingoun , the town of Tane , the Castles of Catboll , Torbat , Loselun , & Kayne with many others , the waters in Rosse are Cromarty , the water Tane , the water of Naes : Also Mountains of Allabaster and hils of white marble , there is many other parts in Rosse too longsome , to describe . Next Rosse lies Sutterland , the speciall towne is D●…norch with a strong Castle : the Castls of Skibow , Pulrossy , Skelbo , Clyne , Dunrobene , the Earle of Sutherlands residence , with goodly Orchards , where growes good Saphron : the riuers are Ferryhuns , Brora Helmsdeaill , abundant in Salmond and other fishes , and good store of bestial , there is also hilles of white Marble , with salt and coale . Next Sutherland lies Stranauern , the castle of Far , where the lord of Makky hath his speciall residence : The Castles of Tunge , this countrey & Stratleigh , with sundry Ilands , as Ship-Iland , Hyp-Iland Marten-Iland , Conne-Iland are vnknown to the Author . Next lies Caithnes , where it marches with Stranauerne is the furthest North countrey of all Scotland : and those two draw the breadth of Scotland in a narrow front . In thē are three Promontories or heads : the highest wherof is in Stranauern , called Orcas , or Taruidum , the other two not so high are in Caithnes , Veruedrum now named Hoya : and B●…rebrum now called Dunsby , at the foot of this hill there is a pretie hauen for them that trauell from Orknay by Sea , there is mountains called Ordhead , Hoburnhead , Madēs Pape , the Castle of Berydale , with a riuer abundant in Salmond & other fishes . The Castle of Dumbeth with a goodly riuer , with the towns of Wcik & Thirso , with Ichone a riuer . The Castle of Gerniggo , the Earle of Caithnes special residence . The Castles of Akergile , Keis Pressik , old Weik , Ormly , Skrabstar , Dunray , Brawl , and May , Dunnethead isa hil of Marble , the riuers are the riuer of Berridale , Dunberth , Weik , Thirso Fors. This countrey is abundant in cornes , bes●…all , Salmond , & all other fishes . Of the Iles of Scotland in generall . NOw refleth it to speake somewhat of the Iles , they are diuided ( which as it were Crowne Scotland ) in three classes or rankes , the West Iles , Orknay Iles , & Shetland Iles , the west Iles lye in the Deucalidon sea , from Ireland almost to Orkenay vpon the west side of Scotland , they are called Hebrides , and by some Aebudae : They are scattered into the Deucalidon sea , to the number of three hundreth and aboue : Of old the kings of Scotland kept these Iles in their possession , vntill the time of Donald brother to King Malcolme the third , who gaue them to the King of Norway , vpon condition that he should assist him , in vsurping of the Kingdome of Scotland , against law and reason . The Danes and Norway people kept possession of them for the space of 160. yeares : and then King Alexander the third , ouercomming the Danes and Norway men in a great battell , thrust them out of the Iles : yet afterward they attempted to recouer their libertie , partly , trusting to their owne strength ; and partly , mooued by seditions in the maine land of this Countrey , creating Kings of themselues , as not long ago , Iohn ( of the house of Clandonald ) did vsurpe the name of King , as others had done before . In foode , raiment , and all things pertaining to their family , they vse the ancient frugalitie of the Scots . Their bankets are hunting and fishing . They seeth their flesh in the tripe , or else in the skinne of the beast , filling the same full of water . Now and then in hunting , they straine out the bloud , and eate the flesh raw . Their drinke is the broth of sodden flesh . They loue very well the drinke made of whey , and kept certaine yeeres , drinking the same at feasts : It is named by them , Blandium . The most p●…rt of them drinke water . Their custome is to ●…ake their bread of Oates & Barly , ( which are the onely kinds of graine that grow in those parts : ) Experience ( with time hath taught thē to mak it in such sort , that it is not vnplea sant to eat . They take a litle of it in the morning , & so passing to the hunting , or any other businesse , content themselues therewith , without any other kind of meat til euen . They delight in marled clothes , specially , that haue long stripes of sundry colours : They loue chiefly purple & blew . Their predecessors vsed short mantles or plaids of diuers colours , sundry wayes deuided : and amongst some , the same custome is obserued to this day : but for the most part now , they are browne , most neere to the colour of the Hadder : to the effect , when they lie amongst the Hadder , the bright colour of their plaids shall not bewray them : with the which , rather coloured , then clad , they suffer the most cruell tempests that blow in the open field , in such sort , that vnder a wrythe of Snow , they sleepe sound . In their houses also , they lie vpon the ground , laying betwixt them and it , Brakens , or Hadder , the rootes thereof downe , and the tops vp , so prett●…ily laid together that they are as soft as feather-beds , & much more wholesome : for the tops themselues are dry of n●…ture , whereby it dries the weake humours , and restores againe the strength of the sinewes troubled before , and that so eu●…dently , that they , who at euening goe to rest sore and weary , rise in the morning whole and able . As none of these people care for feather-beds and bedding , so take they greatest pleasure in rudenesse and hardnesse . If for their owne commoditie , or vpon necessity , they trauell to any other Countrey , they reiect the feather-beds and bedding of their Host. They wrap themselues in their owne plaids , so taking their rest : carefull indeed , lest that barbarous delicacy of the maine Land ( as they tearme it ) corrupt their naturall and Countrey hardnesse . Their armour wherewith they couer their bodies in time of warre , is an Iron Bonnet , and an Habbergion , side almost euen to their heeles . Their weapons against their enemies , are bowes and arrowes . The arrowes are for the most part hooked , with a barble on either side , which once entered within the body , cannot be drawne forth againe , vnlesse the wound bee made wider . Some of them fight with broad swords and axes . In place of a drum they vse a bag-pipe . They delight much in musicke , but chiefly in Harpes and Clairschoes of their owne fashion . The strings of the Clairschoes are made of brasse-wire , and the strings of the Harpes , of sinewes : which strings , they strike either with their nailes , growing long ; or else with an Instrument appointed for that vse . They take great pleasure to decke their Harpes and Clairschoes with siluer and precious stones : and poore ones , that cannot attaine heerevnto , decke them with Cristall . They sing verses prettily compounded , containing ( for the most part ) prayses of valiant men . There is not almost any other argument , whereof their rimes entreat . They speake the auncient language , altered a little . FINIS . A SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE WESterne Iles of Scotland , lying in the Deucalidon Sea , being aboue 300. ALSO THE ILES IN ORKENAY , and Schetland or Hethland . THE first is the I le of Man , of olde called Dubonia , there was a Towne in it named Sodor●… , the Bishop of the Iles seat . It lyes almost midway betwixt Ireland and Cumber in England , and Galloway in Scotland , 24. miles in length , and 18. in bredth . Next vnto Man is Ailsay , into the Firth of Clyde , with a Castell therein , an hard high Craig on all sides , except at one entrie , vnmanured . There comes a great number of Boates there to fish ●…éeling . There are many Comes , and Solayne Géese in it . It lyes betwixt Ireland vpon the Northwest , Carrik vpon the Northeast , and Kyntire vpon the Southeast . 24. miles from Ailsay , lyes Arrane , almost direct North , 24. miles of length , and 16. of bredth . The whole Iland riseth in high and wild Mountaynes , manured onely vpon the Sea side , where the ground is lowest . The Sea runnes in , and makes a well large Créeke into it : the entryes whereof are closed by the Iland Molas : A very sure Hauen for Shippes : and in the waters , which are alwayes calme , is great abundance of Fish , that sundry times the countrey people taking more then may sustayne them for a day , they cast th●… 〈◊〉 ●…ne in the Sea , as it were in a Sta●…ke . Next 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 I le Flada , fertill of Conyes . Further in it is situate the ●…se of B●… within the Firth of Clyde , eyght miles in length , and foure in bredth , from Arrane eyght miles , Southeast , and from Argyill , Southwest , halfe a mile . Cwnnyngham lyes , by East of it , 〈◊〉 m●…es . It is a low Countrey , commodious for Corne and store , with a Towne of the same name , and the old Castle of Rosa ; with another Castle in the middest of it , named Cames . The I le M●…rnoca , a mile of length , and halfe a mile of brédth , lyes low , Southwestwards , well manured and fertill . Within the Firth of Clyde lyes little Cambra , fertill of Fallow Déere : And great Cambra fertill of Cornes . From the Mule of Kyntire , little more then a mile , is Porticosa Auona , getting that name from the Creeke of water , th●… kept the Danes Nauie there , at what ●…e they had the Iles in their hands . Northwest from the Mule , ouer agaynst the Coast of Ireland , lyes Rachuda . And from Kyntire , foure miles , is the I le Caraia : and not farre from thence Gigaia , sixe miles of length , and a mile and a halfe of bredth . Twelue miles from Gigaia lyes Iura , foure and twentie miles of length . The Shore side of Iura is well manured : and the inward part of the Countrey is ●…led with Wood , full of Déere of sundry kinds . Two miles from Iura lyes Scarba , foure miles in length , and a mile in bredth . The tide of the Sea , betwixt this I le and Iura , is so violent , that it is not possible to passe it , e●…ther by sa●…le or a●…re , except at certayne times . At the bache of this I le , is the I le Ballach , Ge●…istaria , Gearastilla , Longaia , The two Fidlais , The thrée Barbais , Culbremna , D●…num , Co●…p , Cuparia , 〈◊〉 , Vikerana , Vitulina , Lumga , Scila , Scana . These thrée last Ilands are fertill of Corne and store , pertayning to the Earles of Argyle . Next vnto them is Sklata : named from a Sklait quarry , that is in it . Then Naguigosa , and Eisda●…a , and Skennia , and the I le Thiania , Vderga , and the Kings Iland : then Duffa , that is black●… : and the Iland of the Church , 〈◊〉 Triaracha : and then the Iland Ardu●… , Humlis , Viridis , and Ericea . Item , Arboraria , Capraria , Cunicularia , and the I le named , The I le of Idle men : and Abridita , and Li●…mora , where sometimes was the Bishops seat of Argyle , eyght miles in length , and two in bredth . In this I le are Mines of Mettals , with other good commodityes . Then Ouilia , the Iland Traiecte , the Iland Garna , the Iland of the Stane , Gressa , and the great Iland Ardiescara , Mus●…dilla , and Bernera , sometime called , The holy Girth , notable by the Trée Taxus , that growes in it . Mo●…ochasgia , Drinacha , full of Thornes and Bourtrée , ouercouered with the ruines of old houses . Wricht●…un , fertill of Wood. Item , Ransa , Kernera . The greatest Iland , next vnto Iura , Westward , is Yla , foure and twentie miles in length , and sixetéene of bredth , extended from the South to the North , abundant in store , Cornes , Déere , and Lead : there is a fresh water in it , called , Lai●… ; and a Créeke of salt water ; and therein are many Ilands . There is also a fresh water Loch , wherein stands the Iland , named , Falingania , sometime the chiefe seate of all the Iles Men. There the Gouernour of the Iles , vsurping the name of a King , was wont to dwell . Neere vnto this Iland , and somewhat lesse then it , is the round Iland , taking the name from Counsell : for therein was the Iustice seat , and fouretéene of the most worthy of the Countrey , did minister Iustice vnto all the rest , continually , and intreated of the waighty affayres of the Realme , in Counsell , whose great equitie and discretion kept peace both at home and abroad : and with peace , was the companion of peace , abundance of all things . Betwixt Ila and Iura , lyes a little Iland , taking the name from a Cairne of stones . At the south of Ila , doel ye Colurna , Muluoris , Ossuna , Brigidana , Corskera , The low Iland , ●…mersga , Beathia , Texa , Ouicularia , Noasiga , Vinarda , Caua , Tarsheria , The great Iland Auchnarra , The Iland made like a Man , The Iland of Iohn S●…badis . At the west corner of Il●… Iyes Ouersa , whereth●… Sea is most tempostuous , and at certayne houres ●…gable . The Marchants Iland : and South westwards from it , Vs●…brasta , Tanasta , and Nefa . The Weauers Iland . 8. miles from Ila , somewhat North , lyes Ornansa . Next vnto it the Swines Iland . Halfe a mile from Ornansa , Col●…ansa . North from Col●…ansa , lyes the Mule , 20. miles from Ila . This I le is 24. miles of length , and as much in bredth , fruitfull of Cornes : there are many Woods in it , and many Heards of Déere , and a good Hauen for Ships : there are in it two waters well spred of Salmond Fishes , and some stripes not empty thereof . There are also two Loches in it , and in euery one an Iland , and in euery Iland a Tower. The Sea running in this Iland at 4. sundry parts , makes 4. salt water Loches therein , all 4. abounding in Herring . To the Northwest lyes Columbaria , or the Dowe Iland : to the Southeast , Era : both the one and the other profitable for Bea●…iall , Cor●… , and for fishings . From this Iland lyes the Iland of Sanctcolm●… , two miles of length , and more then a mile of bredth , fertill of all things , renowned by the ancient Monuments of the Countrey . There were two Abbeyes in this Iland , and a Court or a Parish Church , with many Chappels , builded of the liberality of the Kings of Scotland , and Gouernours of the Iles. There is as yet remayning amongst the old Ruines , a Buriall place , or Church-yard , common to all the Noble Families of the West Iles , wherein there are thrée Tombes higher then the rest , distant one from another a little space , and thrée little Houses , situated to the East , builded seuerally vpon the thrée Tombes : vpon the West side are stones grauen , which stand in the middest , bearing this title , The Tombes of the Kings of Scotland . It is sayd , there were 48. Kings of Scotland buried there . The Tombe vpon the rightside hath this inscription : The Tombes of the Kings of Ireland . It is recorded , that there were foure Kings of Ireland buried there . Upon the left side it hath this inscription : The Tombes of the Kings of Norway . The report is , that there were 8. Kings of that Nation ●…uryed there . The notable houses of the Iles haue their T●…nbes in the rest of the Church-yard , seuerally by themselues . About this Iland , and ●…re vnto it , there are s●…e Ilands , right fruitfull , giuen by the ancient Kings of Scotland , and Gouernours of the Iles , to the Abbey of Sanctcolme . So●… is a very profitable ground for shéep , but the chiefe commodityes of it consist in Sea Fowles that build there●…t , specially of their Egges . Next vnto it is the I le of Women : then Rudana . Néere vnto it Be●…nira ; and from that Skennia , halfe a mile distant from the Mule. The Sea sides of it abo●… in C●…es . Fiue miles hence lyeth Fro●… . All their Iles are subiect to Sanctcolmes Abbey . Two miles from Fresa lyeth V●…lua , fiue miles of length , fruitfull of Corne and shore , with a commodious Hauen for Gallies or ●…ates . Upon the South side of it lyeth Toluansa , with a Wood of Nut●…s , reas●…able fruitfull . About thrée hundred paces from this Iland lyeth Gomatra , two miles long , and one mile bro●…d , extending from the North to the South . From Go●… , foure miles Southward , lye two S●…affae , both full of ●…ing places . From thence , foure miles Southeast , lye the two Ke●…burgae , the more and the lesse , enui●…oned with such sho●…e , high , and furious fide , that by their owne naturall de●… ( supported somewhat by the industrie of man ) they are altogether inuincible . One mile from them lyes an Iland , the whole earth is blac●…e , whereof the people make Peat●… for their 〈◊〉 . Next lyeth Longa , two miles of length , and B●…cha halfe as much . From Bacha sixe miles lyes Tiria , eyght miles in length , and thrée in bredth , most fertill of all the Ihon●…s , it 〈◊〉 in store , Cornes , Fishings , and Sea to wie●… . In this ●…and , there is a fresh water Lorh , & therein an old Castle , with a good hauen for Boates. From this Iland two miles lies Sunna , and from Sunna as farre lieth Colla , 12. miles of length , and 2. miles of breadth : a fertill Iland . Not farre from it is Culsa , almost full of wood : and then two Ilands , named Mekle Viridis , and Little Viridis . Item , other two of the same names . Ouer-against the Mules head , and not farre from it lye two Ilands , named Glassae , and then Arden-Eider , that is , the high land of the Rider . Then Luparia , or the Woolfe Iland : and after it a great I le , lying north from Colla , extending East and West . Then Ruma , 16. miles in length , and 6. in bredth : the Sea-Fowles lay there Eggs here and there in the ground : in the middest of Spring time when the Eggs are layd , any man may take of them . In the high Rocks the Solayne Géese are taken in aboundance . From this Iland , foure miles North-East-ward lyes the Horse Iland . From it halfe a mile , The Swine Iland , fruitfull enough in all things necessary : the Falcon builded in it , with a good Hauen . Not farre from it , lyes Canna and Egga , fertill enough . In Egga are Solayne G●…ese . Soabrittella profitable for hunting . From this Iland is the I le of Skye , the greatest of all the Ilands that are about Scotland , lying North and South 40. miles in length , and 8. miles broad in some places , and in other places 12. miles , rising in Hills , in sundry places full of Woods and Pastorage : The ground thereof fertill in corne and store : and besides all other kinds of bestiall , fruitful of Mares , for bréeding of Horse : it hath fiue great Riuers rich in Salmond , and many little waters , plenty of Salmond and other Fishes . The Sea running in the land on all sides , make many Salt waters : Thrée principall , and 13. others : all rich in Herring . There is in it a fresh water Loch , and ●…e Castles . About the Skye , lye little Ilands , scattered here and there . Oronsa , fertill in Corne and store . Cunicularia , full of Bushes and Connyes . next is Paba . 8. miles frō Paba Southwest , lyes Scalpa , which ( besides sundry other commodities ) hath woods full of troopes of Déere . Betwixt the mouth of Zochcarron and Raorsa , lies Crulinga , 7. miles of length , and two of bredth : there is a sure Hauen in it for ships : There are in it also woods full of Bucke and Déere . Halfe a mile from Crulinga is Rona , full of wood and hadder , with a good Hauen in the innermost Lorh thereof : in the mouth of the same Lorh , is an Iland of the same Name , called Ger-loch . From Rona sixe miles Northward , lyes Flada : Two miles from Flada , Euilmena . Upon the South side of Skye , lyes Oronsa , and a mile from it , Knya , Pabra , and great Bina : and then fiue little Ilands . Next vnto them is Isa , fertill in Cornes . Beside it is Ouia ; then Askerma , and Lindell●… . 8. miles from Skye Southward , lyes Linga and Gigarmena , Benera , Megala , Pana , Flada , Scarpa , Veruecum , Sandara , Vatersa , which by many other good commodityes , hath a Hauen commodious for a number of great Ships , whereinto Fishermen of all Countreys about , conuene certayne times of the yere ordinarily . These last nine Ilands are subiect to the Bishop of the Iles. Two miles from Vatersa is Barra , running from the Northwest , to the Southeast , seuen miles in length , fruitfull of cornes , and aboundant in Fish : there runneth in it a Lorh , with a narrow throat , growing round and wide within : in it there is an Inche , and therein a strong Castle . Upon the Northside of Barra , there riseth an Hill full of Hearbs , from the foote to the head , vpon the top whereof , is a fresh water Well : The spring that runneth from this Well , to the next Sea , caryes with it little things , like as they were quicke , but hauing the shape of no beast , which appeare ( although obscurely ) in some respect , to represent the fish that is commonly called , Cockles : The people that dwell there , call the part of the shore whereunto these things are carryed , The great Sands : because that when the Sea ebbes , there appeares nothing but dry Sands , the space of a mile . Out of these Sands the people dig out great Cockles , which the Neighbours about iudge , eyther to grow ( as it were ) of that séede that the springs doe bring from the well , or else ( indéede ) to grow in that Sea. Betwixt Barra and Wist lye these Ilands : Oronsa , Onia , Hakerseta , Garnlanga , Flada , great Buya , little Buya , Haya , Hell S●… , Gigaia , Lingaia , Foraia , Fudaia , Erisoaia . From these Ilands Vistus lyes Northward , 34. miles of length , and 6. of bredth . The tide of the Sea , running in two places of this I le , causeth it to appeare thrée Ilands , but when the tide is out , it becommeth all one Iland . In it are many fresh water Loches , specially one , thrée miles long . The Sea hath worne in vpon the Land , and made it selfe a passage to this Loch , and can neuer be holden out , albeit the Inhabitants haue made a wall of 60. foote broad , to that effect . The water entereth in amongst the stones , that are builded vp together , and leaues behind it , at the ebbe , many Sea Fishes . There is a Fish in it like to the Salmond in all things , except , that with the white wombe , it hath a blacke backe , and wanteth scales . In this Iland are many fresh water Loches , sundry Caues , couered with Hadder . In it are fiue Churches . Eyght miles West from it lyes Hel●…ther Vetularum , pertayning to the Nunnes of the I le of Ione . A little further North riseth Haneskera : about this Iland , at certayne times of the yéere , are many Sealches , they are taken by the Countrey men . Southwest , almost 60. miles , lyes Hirta , fertill in Cornes and store , and specially in Shéepe , greater then any other Shéepe , in any other Ilands . About the 17. day of Iune , the Lord of this Iland sendeth his Chamberlayne to gather his dutyes , and with him a Minister , who baptizeth all the Children that are borne the yéere preceding : and if the Minister come not , euery man baptizeth his owne Child . This Hirtha is the last and farthest Ile in Albion : so that betwixt the I le of Man , being the first I le in Albion , and this I le , there is 377. miles . Returning to Wistus , from the north point thereof , is the Iland Velaia , two miles long , and one mile of bredth . Betwixt this point , and the Iland 〈◊〉 , lyes Soa , Stroma , Pabaia , Barneraia , E●…saia , Keligira , little Saga , great Saga , Harmodra , Scaria , Grialinga , Cillinsa , Hea , Hoia , little Soa , great Soa , Isa , great Seuna , little Seuna , Taransa , Slegana , Tuemon . All these Ilands are fruitfull of Cornes and store . Aboue Horea , is Scarpa . And halfe a mile towards the West Equinoctiall , from the Lewis , lys seuen little Ilands , named Flananae , some holy place ( in old times ) of girth or refuge , rising vp in hill●…s full of Hearbs . Further , North , in the same ranke , lyes Garn-Ellan , that is , she hard I le , Lamba , Flada , Kellasa , little Bernera , great Bernera , Kirta , great Bina , little Bina , Vexaia , Pabaia , great Sigrama , Cunicularia , plenty of Conyes , little Sigrama . The Iland of the Pigmeis , wherein there is a Church , in which the Pigmeis were buried , ( as they that are neighbours to this Iland beléeue . ) Sundry strangers , digging déepely in the ground , sometimes haue found , & yet to this day doe find very little round heads , and other little bones of mans body , which seemes to approue the truth and apparance of the common bruite . In the Northeast side of the Iland Leogus , there are 2. Loches , running foorth of the Sea , named , The North and South Loches , wherein at all times of the yéere , there is abundance of Fish , for all men that list to take them . From the same side of the Loch , somewhat more Southerly , lyes Fabilla , Adams Iland , The Lambe Iland . Item , Hulmetia , Viccoilla , Hana , Rera , Laxa , Era , The Dowe Iland , Tora , Affurta , Scalpa , Flada , Senta : at the East side thereof , there is a passage vnder the earth , vaulted aboue a flight shoote of length , into the which , little Boates may eyther sayle or row , for eschewing of the violent tide . Somewhat Eastwards lyes an Iland , named , Old Castle , a roome strong of nature , and plenty of Cornes , Fish , and Egges , of Sea Fowles , to nourish the Inhabitants . At that side where Lochbrien enters , is situate the Iland Ew . More Northerly lyes the Iland Grumorta : both these Ilands full of Wood. The Iland , named , The Priests Iland , lyes the same way , profitable for pastorage of Shéepe , and full of Sea Fowles . Next vnto it is Afulla , and great Habrera : then little Habrera : and néere vnto it , The Horse I le ; and then Marta Ika . These last mentioned Ilands lye all before the entrie of Lochbrie●… : and from them , North , lye Hary , and Lewis , 16. miles of length , and 16. of bredth : These 3. make an Iland , which is not deuided by any Hauen 〈◊〉 Port of the Sea , but by the seuerall Lordships of the heritours thereof . The South part is named , Haray : in it sometime was the Abbey Roadilla , builded by Maccleude Har●…is , a Countrey fertill inough in Cornes , and good Pastorage , with a high Hill , ouercouered with grasse , to the very top : many Shéepe are séene féeding there masterlesse , pertayning peculiarly to no man ; for there is neyther Woolfe , Foxe , or Serpent séene there : albeit , betwixt that and Lewis , there bee great Woods full of Déere . In that part of the Iland is a Water , well stored of Salmond , and other Fishes : Upon the North-side it is well manured : Upon the Sea side there are foure Churches , one Castle , 7. great running Waters , and 12. lesse : all plentifull of Salmond , and other Fishes . The Sea enters in the Land in diuers parts , making sundry salt water Loches , all plentifull of Herring , with abundance of Shéepe . In this Countrey is great abundance of Barley . In this Iland is such abundance of Whales taken ( as aged men report ) their tenth will extend to 27. Whales : also a great Caue , wherein the Sea at a low water abides two faddome high , and at a full Sea , foure faddome déepe . People of all sort and ages sit vpon the Rocks thereof , with hooke and line , taking great multitude of all kind of Fishes . Southeast from Lewis , almost 60. miles , there is a fertill Iland , low and playne , ●…alled , Rona , well manured : the Lord of the ground limits certayne number of Households to occupy it , appoynting for euery Household , few or many , Shéepe , according to his pleasure , whereon they may easily liue and pay his rent . In this Iland is a Chappell , dedicated to Saint Ronan , wherein ( as aged men report ) there is alwayes a Spade , wherewith , when any is dead , they find the place of his graue marked . Besides other Fishes in this Iland , is great plenty of Whales . Sixetéene miles from Rona , West , lyes Suilkeraia , a mile of length : but in it growes no kind of Hearbe , not so much as Hadder . Sea Fowles lay Egges there , and doe hatch . They of Leogus , next neighbours vnto it , get great profit thereby . In that Iland is séene a rare kind of Fowle , vnknowne to other Countreyes , called , Colca , little lesse then a Goose : they come in the Spring time , & euery yéere hatch and nourish their Young ones . They cast their Feathers , which haue no stalke , like vnto downe . Now follow the Iles of Orknay , ( of olde called , The Realme of the Picts ) lying scattered , partly in the Deucalidon Sea , partly in the Germane Seas . The common people to this day are very carefull to kéepe the ancient frugality of their Predecessors , and in that respect they continue in good health , for the most part , both in mind and body , so that few dye of sicknesse , but all for age . They haue Barley and Oates , whereof they make both bread and drinke . They haue sufficient ●…ore of quicke goods , Neate , Shéepe , and Goates , great plenty of Milke , Chéese , and Butter . They haue innumerable Sea Fowles , whereof ( and of Fish , for the most part ) they make their common foode . There is no Uenemous Beast in Orknay . There is is no kind of Trée , except Hadder . They haue an old Cup , amongst them , called , Saint Magnus Cup , the first man that brought the Christian Religion in that Countrey . There are about 33. Ilands in Orknay : whereof 13. are inhabited : the remnant are reserued for nourishing of Cattell . The greatest Ile is named , Pomona . The firme land , thirtie miles of length , sufficiently inhabited . It hath 12. Countrey Parish Churches , and one Towne , called Kirkwaa . In this Towne there are two Towers , builded not farre the one from the other . One of them appertaynes to the King , the other appertaynes to the Bishop . Betwixt these 2. Towers stands one Church , very magnifique : betwixt the Church and the Towers , on eyther side , are sundry goodly buildings , which the Inhabitants name , The Kings Towne , and , The Bishops Towne . The whole Iland runnes out in Promontories or heads , the Sea running in , and makes sure Hauens for ships , and Harbours for Boates. In 6. sundry places of this I le , there are Mynes of good Lead and Tinne , as is to be found in any part of Britayne . This Iland is distant from Caithnes about 24. miles , diuided by the Picts Sea. In this Sea are diuers Ilands , scattered here and there : of whom , Stroma , lying 4. miles from Caithnes , is one , very fruitfull : the Earles of Caithnes being Lords thereof . Northward lyes South Ranalsa , 5. miles long , with a commodious Hauen ; with 2. little Ilands , or Holmes , good for Pastorage . Toward the North lyes Burra , Suna , Flata , Fara , Hoia , and VValles . In these Ilands are the highest Hilles , that are in all Orknay . Hoia , and Walles , are 10. miles of length , distant from Ranalsay , eyght miles , and more then twentie from Dunkirke in Caithnes . North is the I le Granisa , and Cobesa . Siapinsa , turning somewhat East , lyes , two miles from Kirkwaa , euen oueragaynst it , sixe miles of length . Right West from Siapinsa are Garsa , and Eglisa , 4. miles of length . In this Iland , they say , Saint Magnus is buried . Next , and somewhat neerer the continent land , is Rusa , foure miles of length , and thrée miles of bredth , well peopled . Westward lyes the Iland Broca . Some Ilands lye to the North , as Stronza , next Linga , fiue miles of length , and two of bredth . Haa , fiue miles of length , and two of bredth . By East lyes Fara . And North from Fara , lyes Wastra , running out in the Sea , in Promontories or heads . Aboue Stronza , at the East end of Etha , lyes Sanda , Northward , 10. miles of length , and foure of bredth , most fertill of Cornes of all the Iles of Orknay ; but it hath no kind of fire within it , making exchange of Cornes for Peats . Beyond Sanda , lyes , North , Ranalsaa , 2. miles of length , and two of bredth . Upon the South si●…e of Pomona lyes Rusa , 6. miles of length : and from it Eastward Eglisa : South Veragersa : and not farre from it Westraa ; from which , Hethland is distant 80. miles ; and Papastronza lyes 80. miles from Hethland . In the midway betwixt lyes Fara , that is , the ●…yre Iland , standing in the sight of Orknay , and Hethland both : it riseth in thrée Promontories or heads , and shore Craig round about , without any kind of entrance , except at the Southeast , where it growes little lower ; making a sure Harboro●… for small Boates. Next is the greatest Ile of all Hethland , named , The Mayne-land , 16. miles of length : There are sundry Promontories or heads in it , specially two , one long and small , which runnes North : the other broader , in some part , 16. miles , runnes Northeast , inhabited vpon the Sea coast . There is good Fishing in all these parts ; the peoples commodity standing most by the Sea. Ten miles North lyes Zeall , 20. miles of length , and 8. miles of bredth : the Bremes Marchants doe bring all wares néedfull . Betwixt this Iland and the Mayne-land , lye Linga , Orna , Bigga , Sanctferri . Two miles Northward lyes Vnsta , more then 20. miles of length , and sixe miles of bredth , a pleasant Countrey and playne . Via and Vra , are betwixt Vnsta and Zeall . Skenna and Burna , lye Westward from Vnsta , Balta , Hunega , Forlora , seuen miles long : and seuen miles Eastward from Vnsta , Mecla , with the thrée Ilands of east Skennia , ●…hualsa , Nostwad●… , Brasa , and Musa : vpon the West side lye West Sche●…niae , Rorira , little Papa , Veneda , great Papa , Valla , Trondar , Burra , great Haura , little Haura , and many other Holmes , lying scattered amongst them . The Hethlandish men vse the same kind of foode that the Orkney man vse , but that they are more scarce in house kéeping . In this Iland no kind of Shée Beast will liue 24. houres together , except Ky , Ewes , Conyes , and such like beasts , as may be eaten . The people are apparelled after the Almayne fa●…ion , and according to their substance , not vnséemely . Their commodity consisteth in course Cloth , which they sell to Norway men , with Fish , Oyle , and Butter . They fish in little Cockboates , bought from Norway men that make them : they salt some of the Fish that they take , and some of them they dry in the wind . They sell th●…se Wares , and pay their Masters with the siluer thereof . ¶ Of the great plenty of Hares , Red Deere , and other wild Beasts in Scotland . Of the strange propertyes of sundry Scottish Dogges : And of the nature of Salmond . HAuing made this speciall description of the Realme of Scotland : Now touching some things concerning the same in generall . In the Fields , and in al places of the Countrey , ( except the parts where continuall habitation of people makes impediment ) there is great abundance of Hares , Red Déere , Fallow Déere , Roes , Wild Horses , Wolues , and Foxes , & specially in the High Countreys of Athole , Argyle , Lorne , Loch-aber , Marre , and Badzenoch , where is sundry times séene 1500. Red Déere , being hunted all together . These Wild Horses are not gotten but by great sleight & policy : for in the Winter season the Inhabitants turne certayne tame Horses and Mares amongst them , wherewith in the end they grow so familiar , that they afterward go with them to & fro ; and finally , home into their Masters Yards , where they bee taken , and soone broken to their hands , the Owners obtayning great profit thereby . The W●…lues are most fierce and noysome vnto the Heards , and Flockes , in all parts of Scotland . Foxes doe much mischiefe in all steads , chiefly in the Mountaynes , where they be hardly hunted : howbeit , Arte hath deuised a meane to preuent their malice , and to preserue the Poultry in some part : and especially in Glenmoores euery house nourishes a young Foxe , & then killing the same , they mixe the flesh thereof amongst such meate as they giue vnto the Fowles , and other little bestiall : And by this meanes , so many Fowles or Cattel as eate hereof , are safely preserued from the danger of the Foxe , by the space of almost two moneths after , so that they may wander whither they will : for the Foxes smelling the flesh of their fellowes , yet in their crops , will in no wayes meddle with them , but eschew and know such a one , although it were among a hundred of other . In Scotland are Dogs of marueylous condition , aboue the nature of other Dogs . The first is , a Hound of great swiftnes , hardines , and strength , fierce and cruel vpon all wild beasts , and eger against Thieues , that offer their masters any violence . The second is a Rach or Hound , very exquisite in following the foote ( which is called drawing ) whether it be of man or beast , yea he will pursue any maner of fowle , and find out whatsoeuer fish , haunting the land , or lurking amongst the Rocks , specially the Otter , by that excellent sent of smelling , wherewith he is indewed . The third sort is no greater then the aforesayd Raches , in colour for the most part red , with blacke spots , or else blacke & full of red marks : These are so skilfull ( being vsed by practize ) that they will pursue a Thiefe , or thiefe-stollen Goods , in most precize maner , and finding the trespasser , with great audacity they will make a race vpon him , or if he take the water for his safegard , he shrinketh not to follow him : and entering and issuing at the same places where the party went in and out , he neuer ceaseth to range , till he hath noysed his footing , and be come to the place , wherein the Thiefe is shrowded or hid . These Dogs are called Sleuthhounds : There was a Law amongst the borderers of England and Scotland , that whosoeuer denyed entrance to such a Hound , in pursute mads after Fellons and stollen goods , should be holden as accessary vnto the theft , or taken for the selfe same Thiefe . Of Fowles , such as ( I meane ) liue by prey , there are sundry sorts in Scotland , as Eagles , Falcons , Go●…hawks , Sparhawks , Marlions , and such like : but of water Fowles there is so great store , that the report thereof may séeme to excéede all credit . There are other kinds of Fowles , the like are rare to be séene , as the Capercaily , greater in body then the Rauen , liuing onely by the rindes & barks of trées . There are also many Moore Cockes and Hennes , which abstayning from corne , doe ●…éede onely vpon Hadder crops . These two are very delicate in eating : the third is reddish , blacke of colour , in quantity comparable to the Pheasant , and no lesse delicious in taste and sauour at the table , called The blacke or wilde Cocks . Salmond is more plentifull in Scotland , then in any other Region of the world : in Haruest time they come from the Seas , vp in smal Riuers , where the waters are most shallow , and there the Male and Female , rubbing their bellies , or wombs , one agaynst the other , they shed their Spawne , which foorthwith they couer with sand and grauell , and so depart away : from hencefoorth they are gaunt and ●…lender , and in appearance so leane , appearing nought else but skin and bone : and therefore out of vse and season to be eaten . Some say , if they touch any their full fellowes , during the time of their leanenesse , the same side which they touched will likewise become leane . The foresayd Spawne and milt , being hidden in the sand , ( as you haue heard ) in the next ●…pring doth yéeld great numbers of little Fry , so nesh and tender for a long time , that till they come to be so great as a mans finger ( if you catch any of them ) they melt away , as it were gelly or a blob of water : from henceforth they go to the Sea , where within 20. dayes , they grow to a reasonable greatnesse , and then returning to the place of their generation , they shew a notable spectacle to be con●…idered . There are many Lin●…es or p●…oles , which being in some places among the Rockes , very shallow abou●… , and déepe beneath , with the fall of the water , and thereto the Salmond not able to pierce through the channell , eyther for swiftnesse of the course , or depth of the discent , hee goeth so n●…re vnto the side of the Rocke or Damme as he may , and there aduenturing to leape ouer , and vp into the Linne , if he leape well at the first , he obtayneth his desire , if not , he assayeth e●…soones the second or third time , till he returne to his countrey . A great Fish , able to swimme agaynst the streame : such as assay often to leape , and cannot get ouer , doe bruise themselues , and become meazelled : others that happen to fall vpon dry land ( a thing often séene ) are taken by the people ( watching their time : ) some in Cawdrons of hot water , with fire vnder them , sit vpon shallow or dry places , in hope to catch the fattest , by reason of their waight , that doe leape short . The taste of these are estéemed most delicate , and their prices commonly great . In Scotland it is straightly inhibited to take any Salmond from the 8. of September , vntill the 15. of Nouember . Finally , there is no man that knoweth readily whereon this Fish liueth , for neuer was any thing yet found in their bellyes , other then a thicke s●…ymy humour . In the Deserts and wild places of Scotland , there groweth an Hearbe of it selfe , called , Hadder or Hather , very delicate for all kind of Cattell to féede vpon ; and also for diuers Fowles , but Bées especially : this Hearbe , in Iune , yéeldeth a purple flower , as swéete as hunny , whereof the Picts , in times past , did make a pleasant drinke , and very wholesome for the body : but since their time , the maner of the making hereof is perished in the subuersi●…n of the Picts , neyther shewed they euer the learning hereof to any but to their owne Nation . There is no part of Scotland so vnprofitable ( if it were skilfully searched ) but it produceth either Iron or some other kind of Mettall , as may be proued through all the Iles of Scotland . A memoriall of the most rare and wonderfull things of Scotland . AMong many commodityes , that Scotland hath common with other Nations , it is beautified with some rare gifts in it selfe , wonderfull to consider : as for example . In Orknay , the Ewes are of such fecundity , that at euery Lambing time , they produce , at least , two , and ordinary thrée . There bee neyther venemous nor rauenous Beasts bred there , nor do liue there , although they were tr●…ported thither . In Schetland , the Iles called , ●…hulae , at the entring of the Sunne in Cancer , the space of 20. dayes , there appeares no night at all . Among the Rockes growes the delectable Lambre , called , Succinum , with great resort of the Mertrik , for costly Furrings . In the West , and Northwest of Scotland , there is a great repayring of the Erne , of a maruelous nature ; the people are very curious to catch him , & punze his wings , that hee flie not : he is of a huge quantity , & a rauenous kind , as the Hawkes , and the same quality : they do giue him such sort of meat , in great quantity at once , that he liues contented there with 14. 16. or 20. dayes , and some of them a moneth : their Feathers are good for garnishing of Arrowes , for they receiue no rayne nor water , but remayne alwayes of a durable estate , and vncorruptible : the people doe vse them eyther when they be a hunting , or at warres . In the most of the Riuers in Scotland , beside the maruelous plenty of Salmond , and other Fishes gotten there , is a Shell Fish , called , The Horse-mussell , of a great quantity ; wherein are ingendred innumerable faire , beautifull , & d●…lectable Pearles , conuenient for the pleasure of man , and profitable for the vse of Physicke : and some of them so fayre and polished , that they may be equall to any Orientall Pearles . And generally , by the prouidence of Almighty God , when dearth and scarcity of victuals are in the land , then the Fishes are most plentifully taken , for the support of the people . In Galloway , the one halfe of Loch Mirton , doth neuer fréese . By Innernes , the Loch ; called , Lochnes , and the Riuer flowing from thence into the Sea , doth neuer freese but on the contrary , in the coldest dayes of winter , the Loch and Riuer doe both smoke and réeke , signifying vnto vs , that there is a Myne of Brimstone vnder it , of a hote quality . In Carrik are Kyne and Oxen , delicious to 〈◊〉 , but their ●…esse is of a wonderfull temperature : all other ●…estable Beasts fatnesse , with the cold ayre doth congeale : by the contrary , the fatnes of these Beasts is perpetually liquid , like Oyle . The Woo and Parke of Commernauld is replenished with Kyne and Oxen , and those , at all times , to this day , haue béene wild , & of a wonderfull whitenes , that there was neuer among all that huge number there , so much as the smallest blacke spot found to be vpon one of their sainnes , hornes , or cl●…e . In Kyle is a Rocke , of the height of 12. foote , and as much of bredth , called , The deafe Craig : for although a man should cryneuer so loude to his fellow , from the one side to the other , hee is not heard , although hee would make the noyse of a Gunne . In the Countrey of Stratherne , vpon the water of Farg , by Bal●…ard , there is a Stone , called , The Rock and Stone , of a reasonable bignesse , that if a man will push it with the least motion of his finger , it will mooue very lightly , but if he shall addresse his whole force , he profits nothing : which mooues many people to be wonderfull merry , when they consider such contrariety . In Lennox is a great Loch , called Loch-lowmond , 24. miles in length , & in bredth 8. miles , contayning the number of 30. Iles : In this Loch is obserued 3. wonderfull things : The one is Fishes , very delectable to eate , that haue no fynnes to moue themselues withall , as other Fishes do . The second , tempestuous . Waues and Su●…ges of the water , perpetually raging , without winds , & that in the time of greatest calmes , in the fayre pleasant time of Sū●…r , when the ayre is quiet . The third is , one of these Iles , that is not corroborat , nor vnited to the ground , but haue béene perpetually loose : and although it be fertill of good grasse , and replenished with Neate , yet it moues by the waues of the water ; & is transported , sometimes towards one poynt , and other whiles towards another . In Argyle is a Stone found in diuers parts , the which laid vnder Straw or Stubble , doth consume them to fire , by the great heat that it collects there . In Buquhan , at the demolished Castle of Sl●… , is a Ca●… , from the top whereof ●…illes water , which in short time doth congeale to hard white stones : the Caue is alwayes emptied . In Louthian , 2. miles from Edinburgh , Southward , is a Well spring , called , Saint Katherins Well , flowing perpetually , with a kind of blacke famesse or Oyle , aboue the water , procéeding ( as is thought ) of the Parret Coale , being frequent in these parts : this fatnes is of a marueilous nature : for as the Coale , whereof it procéedes , is sudden to conceiue fire or flame , so is this Oyle of a sudden operation to heale all salt scabs and humours , that trouble the outward skinne of man : commonly the head & hands are quickly healed by this Oyle : it renders a maruelous swéet smell . At Abridene is a Well , of marnelous good quality to dissolue the Stone , to expell Sand from the Rey●…es & Bladder , & good for the Collick , being drunke in the moneth of Iuly , & a few dayes of August . Little inferiour to the renomed water of the Spaw in Almaine . In the North Seas of Scotland are great Clog●… of Timber sound , in the which are maruelously ingendred a sort of Géese , called , Clayk Geese , and doe hang by the beake , till they bee of perfection , oft times sound , & kept in admiration of their rare generation . At Dumbartan , directly vnder the Castle , at the mouth of the Riuer of Clyde , as it enters in the Sea , there are a number of Clayk Geese , black of colour , which in the night time do gather great quantity of the crops of the grasse , growing vpon the land , and carry the same to the Sea : then assembling in a round , and with a wondrous curiostly , do offer euery one his owne portion to the Sea floud , & there attend vpon the flowing of the tide , till the grasse be purified from the fresh taste , and turned to the salt : and left any part thereof should escape , they labour to hold it in with their nebs : thereaster orderly euery Fowle eats his portion : and this custome they obserue perpetually . They are very fat & delicious to be eaten . FINIS . Errata . Pag. 〈◊〉 . lin . 〈◊〉 . word●… , for wierds . p. 42. l. 35. Malonus , Malcolme . p. 66. l. 35. buries , beares . p. 77. l. 10. Higger , Bigger . Ibid. l. ●…5 . peece , p●… . p. 7●… . l. 〈◊〉 . T●… , Ty●… p. 87. l. 17. hal-●…ds , halyards . Ibid. l. 31. & 32. Pictonweme . Pittinweme . Ibid , l. 〈◊〉 . bufy , bufy . p. 88. l. 〈◊〉 . Kipper , Kippo . p. 92. l. 〈◊〉 . Po●…yll , Po●…yll . p. ●…6 . l. 1●… . new , other . 〈◊〉 . Pag. 5. 〈◊〉 . 2●… . Rocira , 〈◊〉 Ro●…ia . Ibid. 〈◊〉 . 2●… . Trondar , for Trondra . Printed at London by Simon S●…afford . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A07619-e240 Originall of the most ancient surname of Murrayes . The originall of the noble surname of the Grahams . The comming in of the Saxans in Brittaine . The beginning of the League with Fraunce . Beginning of the Normanes . Originall of the noble surname of Hayes . Original of the noble surnames of Keith . Original of the royall and auncient name of Stewarts . First Earles . Originall of Surnames , the time of the conquest . Originall of the Perceyes . Originall of the ancient , noble , and vali●…nt sùrname of Dowglasse . Notes for div A07619-e12190 Tewiotdail . Liddisdail . Eskdail . Annandail . Edinburgh . West-Lothian . Linlithgow . The originall of the name of Wdny . Rosse . Sutherland . Stranauern . Notes for div A07619-e13020 I le of Man , pertayning now to England . Arrane . An ancient Castle Rosa. Iura . Taxus like the Fir●…e tree , the fruit thereof is venemous . Yla . Iland like a Man. The weauers Iland . The Mule. Buriall places of the Kings of Scotland . Kings of Ireland . Kings of Norway . Horse Iland . Swine Iland . Iland of Pigmeis . Lewis . Rona . A maruell . Colca , 〈◊〉 fowle vn knowne . Orknay . Saint Magnus Cup. Kirkwaa . Hethland . Notes for div A07619-e16840 Wild Horses . Wolues . Foxes . Three sort of Dogs . Otter . Sleuthhound . Capercaily . Moore Cocke . Blacke Cocke . Salmond Hadde●… . Notes for div A07619-e17220 The Erne . Pearles . Lochmirton . Lochnes White Kyne & Oxen. Deafe Craig . Rockand Stone . Lochlowmōd S. Katherins well . The Well at Abridene . Clayk Geese . Blacke Clayk Geese . 
A26656	----	Medulla historiæ Scoticæ being a comprehensive history of the lives and reigns of the kings of Scotland, from Fergus the First, to Our Gracious Sovereign Charles the Second : containing the most remarkable transactions, and observable passages, ecclesiastical, civil, and military, with other observations proper for a chronicle, faithfully collected out of authors ancient and modern : to which is added, a brief account of the present state of Scotland, the names of the nobility, and principal ministers of church and state, the laws criminal : a description of that engine with which malefactors are tortured, called the boot. Alexander, William, fl. 1685-1704. 1685 Approx. 330 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 127 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2007-01 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A26656 Wing A917 ESTC R21197 12226435 ocm 12226435 56522 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A26656) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 56522) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 621:11) Medulla historiæ Scoticæ being a comprehensive history of the lives and reigns of the kings of Scotland, from Fergus the First, to Our Gracious Sovereign Charles the Second : containing the most remarkable transactions, and observable passages, ecclesiastical, civil, and military, with other observations proper for a chronicle, faithfully collected out of authors ancient and modern : to which is added, a brief account of the present state of Scotland, the names of the nobility, and principal ministers of church and state, the laws criminal : a description of that engine with which malefactors are tortured, called the boot. Alexander, William, fl. 1685-1704. [15], 233, [5] p. : port. Printed for Randal Taylor ..., London : 1685. Advertisement: prelim. p. [13] and p. [2]-[5] at end. Includes bibliographical references. First edition. Dedication signed: W.A. Ascribed to William Alexander. Cf. Halkett & Laing (2nd ed.). Reproduction of original in Bodleian Library. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. Gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. EEBO-TCP is a partnership between the Universities of Michigan and Oxford and the publisher ProQuest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by ProQuest via their Early English Books Online (EEBO) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). The general aim of EEBO-TCP is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic English-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in EEBO. 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Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor. The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines. Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Nobility -- Scotland -- Registers. Scotland -- Kings and rulers. Scotland -- History. 2005-08 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2005-10 SPi Global Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2006-06 Ali Jakobson Sampled and proofread 2006-06 Ali Jakobson Text and markup reviewed and edited 2006-09 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion His Royal Highness IAMES DUKE of Alban● , and Yorke , only Brother to his sacred Mayesty , Lord High Com̄issioner of Scotlan● Medulla Historiae Scoticae : Being a Comprehensive HISTORY OF THE Lives and Reigns OF THE KINGS OF SCOTLAND , FROM FERGVS the First , to our Gracious Sovereign CHARLES the Second . CONTAINING The most Remarkable Transactions , and Observable Passages , Ecclesiastical , Civil , and Military , with other Observations proper for a Chronicle ; faithfully Collected out of Authors Ancient and Modern . To which is added , A brief Account of the Present State of Scotland , the Names of the Nobility , and Principal Ministers of Church and State , the Laws Criminal : A Description of that Engine with which Malefactors are Tortured , called the BOOT . LONDON , Printed for Randal Taylor , near Stationers Hall , 1685. To the Most Noble JAMES Earl of Perth , Lord Drummond , and Stobhall , &c. Lord Justice General of the Kingdom of SCOTLAND , One of the Extraordinary Lords of the SESSION , and one of the Lords of His MAJESTIES Most Honourable PRIVY COUNCIL in that KINGDOM . THIS Compendious History of the KINGS of Scotland , is Most Humbly Dedicated by Your Lordships Most Humble , most Faithful , and most Obedient Servant , W. A. TO THE READER . I Shall not detain the Generous Reader with Flourishes upon the Grandeur , and Glory of the Scotish Crown , nor tell you that it may Vie Antiquity with the Ancientist Monarchy of the Vniverse , that I leave to your Vmpirage , when you have compared the following sheets with the Histories of other Nations . Only thus far I will assure you that Scotland will be found to be a Country Pregnant of Wonderfull Changes , and Revolutions , a Theatre whereon Divine Providence has I Exhibited divers remarkable Instances , of it's Peculiar Care over Crowned Heads , and where all Treason and Disloyalty has been persued with utter ruine and Destruction . It can show a Race of Kings Vnparallel'd for their Bravery , and Gallantry in the Defence of their Country , and Protection of their Allies , and for their Heroicism in Assisting and redresing the Miserable and Opprest . But I leave their own Acts , as represented in the following Mirrour to make good my assertion , and shall proceed to offer something in my own Vindication , for I am liable to some Reprehension for Cramming so Large , so Bulky a History into so small a Volum , but if it be considered that all the Curious have neither the leisure to peruse nor the means to provide a larger , I hope I shall need no farther Apology upon that point , nor need I advocate much for differing much from many Authors , as to the Origin of our Nation , since I have followed the most Authentick , and have only vary'd from those whose writings are vanished with Monckery , and savour more of the Legend than true History . Besides the plain bomespun manner wherein all these matters are deliver'd , will disgust several who only delight in what is Flaunting and Trick'd up with all the Ornaments and Gawdiness of Rhetorick and Elocution ; but be it known I fitted my stile for the Capacities of Vulgar Readers , such as becomes a History , not a Panegyrick , and what squars best with the Tongue of both Kingdoms , wherein there was never yet any Chronicle publish'd of the Realm of Scotland ; so as that those who were unacquainted with the Latin , were excluded from the knowledge of the Primitive state of so Illustrious a Kingdom . After having fitted this account for the Common use by divesting it of a Pompous Dress and a too Stately Dignity of stile , my Chief Care was to avoid Partiality , by a stedy and Cauterous stearing between Buchanan and Bishop Lesley , Seylla and Charybdis , where vast Funds of Wit and Learning might easily have wrought the shipwrack of an unwary Pilot ; so that tho' a great part hereof is a translation of Eminent Authors , yet I left my Originalls when I found 'em bias'd , and avoiding their Extreams boul'd directly to the Block . THE Introduction , HIstory has been reckon'd , one of the most Generous amusements of the greatest Personages , and the loftier the Subject , the more agreeable the Entertainment . Now for the Advantages , and Dignity of a Scotish Chronicle ; I will not so much insist upon it's Novelty , and the wonderful Vicissitudes it contains , as the Preheminency of that Crown , over all Common-wealths , Empires and Monarchies , which , by stating their several Claims and Pretences , will sufficiently be made appear . The Emperor Challenges the first Rank , as succeeding to the Roman Emperors , who are supposed to have been universal Monarchs ; the French King pretends also to it , upon the Account of his being Stiled the most Christian King , with other such Pretences . The King of Spain also pleads it , as his Right ; being the most Catholick King , and King of manyest Kingdoms . In this Debate of theirs , we are not a little concerned ; our business therefore shall be to prove : First , that the King of Great Britain hath an unquestionable Right of Precedency to all the above named Princes : Secondly , that he hath it it as King of Scotland . First , he founds his Precedency to them all , 1. Upon his being a absolute Monarch of the Isle of Great Britain , which was first Christian , 2. Upon his being one of the Quatuor nucti , which were before all other Kings , 3. That having Conquered France , he hath Right to all it's Titles , by which he carries it clear from the Spaniard , or any other Competitor , and Lastly , that it was granted him , even as King of England by the Popes themselves , in the General Councils ; so that had they not relinquished his Papacy , it is like his Holiness , had not as yet questioned their Title to it . II. His Majesty as King of Scotland , may justly claim the Precedency from all those Princes ; it being by Lawyers declared the uncontroverted use of Precedency , That amongst those of equal Dignity , he who first attained to that Dignity , is to be preferred , This being a Rule among others Dignities , we see no reason , but that it should hold here . This being granted , I subsume that the King of Scotland , being equal in Dignity with the Kings of England , France and Spain , attained to that Dignity , before either of them , for the first King of Scotland Reigned about three hundred and thirty years before the birth of Christ : Whereas the English Historians Confess , that they cannot reckon higher than eight hundred years after Christ : Nor can either the French , or Spaniard come up to the English , for the French take the Origine from Hugh Capi , who Usurped that Crown , Anno. 987. And the Spaniards from Rudolphus King of the Romans , Elected 1273. But here it is objected by some , that the Kings of Scotland , were Vassals to the Kings of England , and did them Homage for the Crown of Scotland , and so can Claim no Precedency amongst any free Princes , far less amongst such as are of the first magnitude . This some English Historians do with great Confidence aver ; but that their Ignorance , or Malice , or both may appear , we are Content to refer the matter , not only to the Respect the General Councils gave to the Representatives of the Kings of Scotland , which was only due to free Princes , together with the Judgment of Forreign Princes , Lawyers , and Historians about it ; but also to the acknowledgment of the Kings of England themselves , ( 1. ) King Henry of England , having intreated the Assistance of Alexander King of Scotland , against Simeon Earl of Leicester , did by Letters under his hand , publickly declare , that he did not crave this Assistance , as Superior , to which Superiority , he had no pretence , but to which is very Considerable , the King and Parliament of England , have treated with the Ambassadors of Scotland ; whereas no Superior can Treat with his own Vassal , as a Forreigner . We freely Grant that the Kings of Scotland did hold the Lands of Northumberland , Cumberland , and Westmerland , in Capite of the Crown of England , which yet was no Disparagment to them ; that being most ordinary amongst Sovereign Princes , for thus Henry King of England , and several others of their Kings , did Homage to the Kings of France , for the Provinces possest by them in France ; as the King of Spain also doth , this day to the Pope , for Naples and Sicily . And yet the Homage done for those Countries have been the occasion of an Ignorant mistake in some , and a malicious Pretence for others , to Mis-represent it , as done for the Kingdom of Scotland . Advertisement . By reason of the Authors absence from the Press ; several Faults have escaped , which the Reader is desired to amend . A List of the KINGS of SCOTLAND . 1 FErgus . 2 Ferithar . 3 Main . 4 Dornadill . 5 Hothat . 6 R●ther . 7 Rutha . 8 Thereus . 9 Josine . 10 Finnane . 11 Durst . 12 Euen . 1 13 Gill 14 Euen . 2. 15 Eder . 16 Euen . 3. 17 Metelan . 18 Caratack . 19 Corbred . 1. 20 Dardan . 21 Corbred . 2. 22 Luctack . 23 Mogald . 24 Conar . 25 Ethod . 1. 26 Satrael . 27 Donald . 1. 28 Ethod . 2. 29 Athirck . 30 Nathalock . 31 Findoch . 32 Donald . 2. 33 Donald . 3. 34. Crathilinth . 35 Fincormach . 36 Romach . 37 Angusian . 38 Fethelmach . 39 Ewen . 1. 40 Fergus . 2. 41 Ewen . 2. 42 Dongard . 43 Constantine . 1. 44 Congall . 1. 45 Goran . 46 Ewen . 3. 47 Congall . 2. 48 Kinnatell . 49 Aidan . 50 Kenneth . 51 Ewen . 4. 52 Ferchard . 1. 53 Donald . 3. 54 Ferchard . 2. 55 Maldwine . 56 Ewen . 5. 57 Ewen . 6. 58 Amberkelleth . 59 Ewen . 8. 60 Mordach . 61 Etfin . 62 Ewen . 7. 63 Fergus . 3. 64 Solvat . 65 Achaius . 66 Congall . 3. 67 Dongall . 68 Alpine . 69 Kenneth . 2. 70 Donald . 5. 71 Constantine . 2. 72 Eth. 73 Gregory . 74 Donald . 6. 75 Constantine . 3. 76 Malcolm . 1. 77 Indulf . 78 Duff . 72 Culen . 80 Kenneth . 3. 81 Constantine . 4. 82 Grim. 83 Malcolm . 2. 84 Donald . 7. 85 Macbeth . 86 Malcolm . 3. 87 Donald Bane . 88 Duncan . 89 Edgar . 90 Alexander . 1. 91 David . 1. 92 Malcolm . 4. 93 William . 94 Alexander . 2. 95 Alexander . 3. 96 John Balliol . 97 Robert Bruce . 98 David . 2. 99 Edward Balliol . 100 Robert. 2. 101 Robert. 3. 102 James . 1. 103 James . 2. 104 James . 3. 105 James . 4. 106 James . 5. 107 Henry Stewart , and Mary Stewart . 108 James . 6. 109 Charles . 1. 110 Charles . 2. AN EPITOME OF THE HISTORY OF SCOTLAND . THe Scots by the most judicious Writers , and by those who have most carefully studied , not only their own Antiquities , but those of other Nations are acknowleged ( although they be not of the greatest ) to be undoubtedly among the most antient People in Europe . But to speak more particularly of their antient Nation , we must know that the whole Island 〈◊〉 , it is a part , was at first called Albion , or Albium : As Theophrastus , Ptolomy , Tacitus and Seneca tells us , which Name the true race of the ancient Scots retain to this day , calling the ancient Country Albin , and themselves Albinich , always keeping their primitive Name notwithstanding of the many different People , that have since inhabited it . The Etymology of this Name is disputed by many , but it seems to be really derived from Alb , or Alp , signifying a Hill or high place . The antient Inhabitants of the Northern parts of this Island were called Scots , who were divided into two sorts , the one who were the first Possessors , and this Posterity doth inhabit it to this day , were called the Scoto-Brigantes . Some have taken upon them to be very accurat , in giving an Account of their descent , and the manner of their coming hither , even from the far ends of the Earth ; but with so little appearance of Truth , that I will not put my Reader nor my self to the trouble to refute it . The most probable Conjecture , and that which carrieth most Evidence with it is , that these first Inhabitants came in Colonies from Spain to Ireland ( nor is it improbable , that these Colonies were Originally from France ) who either for want of Accommodation to live at home , or being thrust out by stronger hands came over to Ireland , where they continued long , for either themselves or their Children desirous of new Habitations , transported themselves to the north Islands , where they continued in an unsetled Course of Life for a long time ; the time of their entring Albion , is said to have been from the Creation , about 3530 years . The first place they took Possession of was Argyle , they being divided into sundry Tribes , elected every Tribe their own Captain , to govern them in Peace and War , this very name they had in great Veneration . Then after , about 150 ( as some write ) a German , or as Beda saith , a Scythian Navy arrived upon the coast of Ireland ; being as is probable , beat thither by a Tempest , having neither Wives or Children with them ; the men were in want of every thing , having by tedious Sailing consumed all their Provision . They sent to the Inhabitants , desiring they might have a residence among which they told them , they could not afford in regard of the Barrenness of the place , and the multitude of Inhabitants that possess it already ; but that there was a habitable Land called Albion , not far from them , whether they might go ; it being for the most part , as yet un-inhabited , and such as did inhabit it , like to ruin one another by civil Discords Those men ( afterward called Picts following their Advice , set Sail and came to that part of Albion that lyes toward Germany ; and having Landed , soon beat out the Inhabitants , and made them draw themselves within less bounds . Possessing themselves of Caithness , Ross , Murray , Merus , Angus , Fiffe and Lothian , together with Orkney , which some say was their first Habitation . They were a civil People , Ingenious and Crafty , both in Peace and War. Having fixed their residence , they sent Messingers to the Scots , desiring their Daughters in Marriage , alledging that if they condescended , it would highly conduce to the Welfare of both of them ; being thereby made strong , for either an offensive or defensive War , with any of their Neigbours . This message the Scots at first rejected , but upon mature Deliberation they condescended : So having agreed upon the Terms , which were that they should concur with all their Forces , when they were invaded , and as often as the Crown of Picts came to want an Heir , the next of the Womans blood should succeed ; the Scots gave their Daughters in Marriage to them : But the Brittons who inhabited the South parts of the Island , suspecting that this affinity between the Scots and the Picts , might tend to their prejudice , sent Ambassadors to the Picts , perswading them to break with the Scots ; by this means the Scots suffered extreamly , many of their People who dwelt among the Picts , being surprized and cut off , in Compensation of which they cut off , as many of the Picts as they could catch ; thus they for a long time wasted one anothers Country with continual Incursions , at last they resolved to put it to the hazard of a General Battle . The Scots assembling in Argyle , consulted what was fit to be done , and considering that they had not only to do with the Picts , but with the Brittons also ; therefore it was agreed to send Ambassadors to Ireland , to have the Advice and Assistance of their old Friends , and Progenitors in this Affair , and finding that by having many supreme Captains , Sedition and Division increased amongst them , they resolve to elect one to have the supreem Government over the rest . Their Ambassadors arriving in Ireland , and representing their condition to Ferchard King of Scots , he was much concerned at the wrongs done them , therefore he sent his Son Fergus a wise and valiant Prince , accompanied with many gallant Soldiers ; sending with him also the fatal Marble Chair for his incouragement : Upon his arrival he called a Councel in Argyle , where having made an elegant Oration , he was by Unanimous Consent elected King of the Scots . 1. Thus Fergus the first King of Scots , was Crowned in the fatal Marble Chair , which he brought with him from Ireland , in the year from the Creation 3641. before the coming of Christ 330. about the beginning of the fourth Monarchy , when Alexander the Great vanquished Darius the last Persian Monarch . Soon after the Picts assisted by the Brittons , invaded the Country against them , the King most valiantly took the Field with his fierce Scots ; when the two Armies approached one another , the Brittons stood off in Battle Array , resolving that when the Scots and Picts had sufficiently weakened one another in Battle , to break in upon them , and destroy them both ; this by a Fugitive Britton was discovered to Fergus , whereupon he desired an interview with the King of Picts ; wherein , representing the eminent hazard that both of them were in , by the Treachery of the Brittons , after mature Deliberation ; it was determined that they both should convert their Arms against the Brittons , this resolution was most pleasing no doubt to the Picts Wives , to see their Husbands and their Fathers agreed . The Brittons seeing this disappointment of their hopes break upon the Picts , pillaging and spoiling at their Pleasure , which when Fergus heard of , he went against them , and with the Assistance of the Picts , he totally routed them killing their King , his Name was Coil with many of his Nobles : Upon this Victory the Nobles and Subjects agreed , that Fergus and his Posterity , should inherit the Crown of Scotland for ever , whereupon Charters and Evidences were granted to them , ratifying the same . The Kingdom of Scotland being thus confirmed to Fergus and his Successors , he with Advice and Consent of his Councel divided the whole Land , then inhabited by the Scots among his Nobles and Captains , making many Laws to repress Vice and Disorders : Not long after he was chosen Arbitrator , to determine some high Controversies amongst his Friends in Ireland ; whereupon he went thither , accompanied with many of his Nobles , and setled all their Debates . But returning home , he was by a tempestuous Storm driven upon a Rock in the Sea , where he and all the Nobles in his Company perished , this Rock is called after his Name Carrib-Fergus : Thus dyed this brave and valiant Prince , in the five and twentieth Year of his Raign , to the unspeakable Grief and loss of his Subjects . 2. Fergus being dead , left two Sons behind , him Ferlegus and Atainus , neither of which were capable presently to manage the Government , because of their tender years : Whereupon a Convention was holden by the Nobles , for electing of a King , wherein some were for choosing one of the late Kings Children ; alledging , that they were bound by Oath to continue the Crown in Fergus his Succession ; others aggravated the Danger both at home and abroad , under the Government of a Child . At length , after a long Debate it was enacted , that when it happened their King should dye , ( the Heirs begotten of his Body , being Children ) the nearest of the Royal Blood , being the best qualified for doing of Justice should succeed , and possess the Crown for his time ; and after his Death , the former Kings Son to succeed without any impediment , if he is found fit for Government . This Law was in Force till the Reign of King Malcom the third . Thus by this Law Feritharis Brother to Fergus the late King was chosen , who begun his Reign in the Year of the World 3666. before the coming of Christ 305 Years , from the beginning of the Reign of Scotland 26. Feritharis Reigned fifteen years with such Equity and Modesty , that his Subjects found him an excellent King , and his Nephews an excellent Tutor ; but at length Ferlegus having an itching after the Government , and having got some loose young Men upon his side , went to his Uncle and boldly demanded the Kingdom from him , alledging that he enjoyed it , only by way of trust , during his Minority . Feritharis upon this called a Convention of the Nobles , where he willingly offered to resign the Kingdom , in Favours of his Nephew ; but they being sensible how happy they had hitherto lived , under his Government , and knowing that the other was of a rude untractable disposition , by no means would hear of it ; soon after there was a Conspiracy discovered against the Kings Person , managed by Ferlegus and some others : Whereupon he was presently arraigned and found Guilty , but his Fathers memory , his Uncles desire to the Parliament , prevailed to have him pardoned , and committed only to the keeping of some , who were commanded to take special notice of all his Actions , but he found a way to deceive his Keepers , and make his escape ; he first fled to the Picts , then to the Brittons , where he spent the rest of his days in great Misery , within a Month after , Feritharis dyed , not without Suspicion of being poysoned by some of his Nephews Accomplices , which so inraged the Nation against him , that his very Memory was hateful . 3. Mainus Fergus his second Son , succeeded , in the Year of the World 3680. before Christ 291. After the beginning of the Reign forty one . He was a noble Prince , and a severe Justitiary , he renewed the old League , with Crinus King of Picts , he dyed peaceably the 29th . Year of his Reign . 4. His Son Dornadill succeeded him in the Government in the Year of the World 3079. before Christ 262. after the beginning of the Reign seventy , he followed his Fathers Foot-steps in Equity and Justice , but was more given to Pastimes ; especially Hunting ; he is said to have made several Laws about Hunting , which the Ancient Scots observe to this day , he dyed peaceably the 28. year of his Reign . 5. Dornadilles eldest Son , being yet a Child and not fit to Govern , the People set Hothat his Brother upon the Throne in the year of the World 3738. before Christ 233 after the beginning of the Reign 98. He proved a monstrous Tyrant , taking Pleasure in nothing more than in murthering his Nobility , and destroying his People by all the means that he could devise , till at last one Dowall a Gallaway man , having gathered together a Company of disaffected Persons came boldly to the King , telling him how grievous his Government was to the People , because of his Oppression , and therefore desired him to resign the Crown ( which he was unfit to wear ) to such as had a better Title to it ; the King tho' surprized by his Enemy , yet no ways daunted , told him , that whatever was done by him during his Government , was done by Royal Authority , and if it was grievous to the Subjects , they had their own obstinacy to blame for it , hereupon Dowall presently fell upon , and killed him after he had Reigned twenty years . 6. Rewther the Son of Dornadilles , was by Dowals Faction made King without the Peoples Consent , in the year of the World 3758. before Christ 213. after the Reign 118. the Nobles took this very ill . And as for Hothat , tho' they knew that he deserved the worst kind of Death , yet they did not approve of this Fact , as being of bad Example ; they knew also , that what Dowal did , was for his own ends , as afterward appeared . Hothat's Relations taking the advantage of the Peoples dissatisfaction stirred them up by all means , to make War upon Dowall ; at length , they draw to Arms under the Command of Ferguhort , Hothat's Son-in-Law , and Captain of Kintire and Lorn . Dowall came against them with great Power , accompanied with the young King , the King of Picts , and many others of his Friends . There followed a most cruel Battel , where after two several Engagements in one day , Dowall was utterly defeated , himself , the King of Picts , together with all the chief of the Claws were killed upon the place . Reuther the young King was pursued , and taken at the Castle of Callender , but very civilly used . The consequences of this unhappy day , were most fatal both to Scots and Picts ; not having Men enough left alive to inhabit the Realm , or to withstand their Enemies , upon which the Brittons took occasion to invade them , but they no wise being in Case to resist them , after several bloody Skirmishes , were forced to betake them to the Mountains ; the King of Scots went into Ireland , and the King of Picts to Orkney , whereafter twelve years Misery , they resolved once more to try their Fortune , and returning home , the one from Ireland , the other from Orkney ; they joyned Battle with their old Enemies , the conflict was so terrible , that none of the parties could boast much of the Victory . However , the up-shot of the matter was , a Peace was concluded , and the Scots , and Picts re-installed in their old Possessions . This King dyed in the twenty six year of his Reign , having left one Son begotten by Gethus the King of Picts his Daughter . 7. But he being young and not fit to Reign , being scarcely ten years of age , Reutha his Fathers Brother succeeded in the year of the World 3784. before Christ 187. after the beginning of the Reign 144. he instituted divers Laws , which are in Force among the old Inhabitants to this day ; and having Reigned seventeen years with great applause , either for his want of Health , or Love of Solitariness , or for fear of Thereus , Reuthers Son , whom he knew to have an itching after the Crown he resigned . 8. Thereus succeeded in the year of the World 3799. before Christ 171. after the Reign 158. The first six months he Governed pretty moderately , but he suddenly brake loose , giving reins to all kinds of of wickedness , causing Slanders and Calumnies to be raised against his Nobles , and under this pretence cruelly Murthering them ; but at last the people not able to endure his Tyranny , degraded him of all his Honours . Covan Captain of the Brigants , was made Governor , who Governed very wisely , about the space of eleven years , at which time being informed , that Thereus had dyed at York , he resigned the Government . 9. Josina the Kings Brother succeeded to the Crown , the year of the World 3818. before Christ 161. after the Reign 170. He was a peacable and good King , it is observed of him , that he highly esteemed Physitians , being himself very expert in that Science , whence it came to pass that for many Ages after , the Heads of Families and Men of worth , were for the most part excellent Physitians : He dyed in a good Age , after he had Reigned twenty four years . 10. To him succeeded his Son Finnan , in the year of the World 3834. before Christ 137. after the Reign 194. This Prince followed his Fathers Foot-steps , he studied nothing more than to gain the Hearts of his Subjects , and to maintain his Royal Dignity , more with Clemency than Force : That he might prove an effectual Enemy to Tyranny , he made a Law that Kings should command nothing of great weight , in the state without Advice of their Parliament , he dyed the thirtieth year of his Reign . 11. Durstius his Son succeeded Finnan , A. M. 3864. before Christ 107. after the Reign 224. A Flagitious and wicked Tyrant , he banished his Fathers Friends from the presence , because they advised him to leave off his lewd Courses . Having prostituted his Wife , who was Daughter to the King of the Brittons to his Companions , he repudeated her . But soon after , it was discovered , that he was carrying on a Conspiracy against his Nobles , and knowing that he could have no shelter , either at home or abroad ; having been so cruel , he feigned a sincere Repentance of his former wickedness , calling home his Queen , promising by Oath to his Nobles , that he would no longer follow his Irregular Courses ; which they readily believing , forgot all former Injuries , but not long after having invited them , to make them merry with him , when he got them all together , he caused a Company of Ruffians to fall upon them and Murther them . The noise of this heinous Act going all abroad , stirred all the People to revenge , who killed him in Battle , after that he had Reigned nine years . 12. It was hotly debated among the Nobles , whether the next in Blood to Durstius should succeed , some were against it , fearing lest the Successor , if he were in kin to him , might be tempted to revenge the Death : Others were for keeping up his ancient Custom according to the Oath sworn to Fergus , at length they Condesended upon Ewen , Brother to Durstius , him they Crowned , A. M. 3873. before Christ 98. He is thought to have been the first , who caused his Subjects to give him their Oath of fidelity . He went with the Picts against the Brittons , where there was so cruel a Battle fought , that Night drawing on both Parties retired , but the Scots and Picts understanding that the Brittons had left the Field , they returned to their Camp , where they found great spoil , which they divided by Law of Arms , and returned home Victors , where Ewenus spent the rest of his days in Peace , he dyed the nineteenth of his Reign , and was buried in Dunstaffage . 13. Durstius his two Sons , who were the nearest of the Royal Line , after Evenus his Death began to contend for the Crown , in the mean time Gillus , base Son to Evenus , having got together some Villains for his purpose , suppresseth them both , and Murthers them , then sets himself upon the Throne , A. M. 3802. before Christ 79. after the Reign 252. But not thinking himself secure , so long as any of Durstius his Posterity , were extant resolved , to take off his three Nephews , who were in the Isle of Man ; the eldest two he caught in his Snare , and killed , but the third was conveyed away by his Nurse , in the Night time and carryed to Argyle , where she kept him for some years in a Cave for fear of the Tyrant , who was at last killed in Battel in Ireland , whether he had fled , by Caldebus the Captain of the Brigrands the second year of his Reign . 14. Evenus the second King Finnans Nephew succeeded in the Government , A. M. 3894. before Christ 77. years ; a good Institutor , he confirmed the Peace with the Picts , having married Gethus the third King of Picts his Daughter , he afterward overcame Belus King of Orkney in Battle , who finding no way to escape killed himself : He also built Innerlosher , and Innerness , he dyed in the seventeenth year of his Reign . 15. Ederus Durstius his Brothers Son succeeded in the Year of the World 3911. before Christ 60. after the Reign 271. Bredus of the Isles , Cousin to Gillus the Tyrant , brake in upon the Country ; the King went presently against him , and overthrew him and his followers , and burnt their Ships ; he afterward assisted the Brittons against Julius Caesar in England , where by his means a Glorious Victory was obtained , he dyed in Peace the forty eight year of his Reign , and was buried in Dunstaffage . 16. To him succeeded Evenus the third his Son , A. M. 3959. before Christ 12. This man came to such a height of Luxury , that not being content , that he took an hundred noble Women to be his Concubines ; he made an Act , that every Man should keep as many Wives as he pleased , so that he had an Estate to maintain them , and another , that the King should have the first Nights enjoyment of a Noble mans Lady , allowing the Noble men the same priviledge from their Inferiors : He was afterward taken in Battle and imprisoned , where he was killed by a young Child the seventh year of his Reign . 17. Mettallan's Nephew to Ederus succeedeed , A. M. 3966. before Christ 4. after the Reign 326. A King universally beloved , because that in his time there was universal Peace abroad , and Tranquility at Home ; but yet he could not reduce his Nobles from the Riotous habit , that they acquired in his Predecessors time , he dyed Peaceably the thirty ninth year of his Reign . 18. To him succeeded , Garratacus his Sisters Son , A. M. 4005. A. D. 35. He first composed some Tumults , that were in the Isles upon the late Kings Death , then assisted his Neighbours against the Romans . Some report that in his time , Orkney was conquered by Claudius the Emperor , and the King and Queen of it sent in Triumph to Rome . After many bloody Battles fought with the Romans , he at last was desired by Vespasian to submit to them , and he should be reputed a Friend to the Senate , and enjoy great Honours , to which he answered , that the Kingdom of Scotland was as free to him , as the Kingdom of the Romans was to Caesar , he dyed Peaceably the twentieth year of his Reign . 19. To him succeeded his Brother Corbred , A. M. 4025. after Christ 55. after the Reign 385. The Islanders , who almost in every Interregnum stirred up Sedition , hoping for a Change therein , divers expeditions quite subdued by him : He suppressed Thieves , going frequently from place to place , doing Justice , he dyed in the tenth year of his Reign , and was buried in Dunstaffage . 20. Corbred's Son being a Child , the Parliament chused Dardan Nephew Metellan , A. M. 4042. after Christ 72. there were great hopes had of him at first , but within three years he degenerated , and became an odious Tyrant , murthering and destroying all the wisest , and best of his Councellors , and to compleat his Villainies , hired a Ruffian to murther Corbred's two Sons , who were in the Isle of Man ; but the Traitor being taken just ready to perpetrate the Villany , was forced to discover the whole Plot : Whereupon the Nobles Unanimously resolved , to revenge the Treason , but the King absconding himself , and his Forces being defeated by the Nobles , was at last taken , and his Head struck off the fourth year of his Reign . 21. Corbred the second , Surnamed Galdus cometh next to the Throne , after Christ 76. A Couragious and warlike Prince , in his days the Romans had greatly inlarged their Borders , for having quite routed the Brittons , they went as far North , as the River Tay , and had probably gone further , had not that Valiant warrier Agricola been called home by Domitian , who envied his Success , he was no sooner gone , but Corbred came with an Army , and made a great slaughter among the Romans , pursuing them from one place to another ; till at length they were glad to beg their Peace , which was granted upon very Honourable terms . Corbred having spent the rest of his days in Peace , dyed the thirty fifth year of his Reign , and was buried in Dunstaffage . 22. Luctacus succeeded his Father Corbred , Anno Dom. 110. A most Flagitious man , given to all kinds of Lewdness and Cruelty ; which his Nobles perceiving , at a Convention of the States , began to reprove him for his Wickness and Tyranny : He being inraged at this , commanded some of them to be put to Death ; but instead of being obeyed , they fell upon him and his Complices , and killed them the third year of his Reign , he was buried in Dunstaffage . 23. To him succeeded Mogald , Corbred the second Sisters Son , A. D. 113. the beginning of his Reign was fortunate , for he Governed most Prudently and Successfully . He discharged the Romans from approaching the Confines of his Kingdom , and defended the Picts from them , he defeated Lucus with his Romans in Westmorland , and obtained a great Victory : In his time Adrian the Emperor came into Brittain , where he built Adrians Wall , from the mouth of Tyne , to the Flood of Esk fourscore miles in length , he was killed in the thirty third year of his Reign . 24. Conar succeeded his Father Mogald , A. D. 149. Who became a cruei Tyrant , and was suspected to have had a hand in Conspiring his Fathers Death , he did greatly dilapidate the Rents of the Crown by his Extravagancies , being forced to call a Parliament ; he pressed mightily for Money , alledging that his Revenues was not answerable to his Charges , but his Nobles answered his demands in another manner , then he expected , for they presently degraded and imprisoned him . Ardgad Captain of Argyle made Governor : He dyed in Prison the fourteenth year of his Reign , and was buried in Dunstaffage . 25. After , him Ethod the first Sisters Son to Mogad began to Reign , A. D. 163. He highly applauded Ardgad his Government , keeping him still in great Trust with himself . He sent him to the Isles , to allay some Tumults that were beginning to stir , which he did ( as he thought ) effectually , but he was not long gone , then they became worse than before ; wherefore the King sent him thither again , where he was unfortunately killed , this so inraged the King that he went thither himself in Person , and made them soundly smoke for their Insolency . Having composed his Affairs at home and abroad , he began to give himself to ease , but soon after he was killed in his Chamber by an Irish Harper , whom he kept to make Musick to him , the thirty third year of his Reign . 26. Ethod having no Sons ripe for the Government , his Brother Satrael succeeded him , A. D. 199. He was so cruel , that he made it his Work to cut off all the antient Nobility , but was at length stabbed by one of his Courtiers the fourth year of his Reign , and was buried in Dunstaffage . 27. His Brother Donald the first succeeded him , A. D. 199. A Prince famous for Princely Endowments , but especially , in that he was the first King , that imbraced Christianity in Scotland , and gave it his Royal Sanction , tho' for several years before his time , the Gospel had it's Professors , tho' not publickly owned ; he with the Concurrence of his Nobles made what Reformation , he could , yet could he not during his Life , get the People weaned from their old Heathenish Superstitions : In his time Sevesus the Emperor came into Brittain with a Prodigious Army , intending no less than to Conquer the whole Island . The Scots and Picts at his coming , betake them to the Hills , and draws him after them , but his Army suffered grievously , having as one Writes , * lost 50000. Men in that expedition , at length they came to a Peace with him , after which he built a great Wall , reaching from Forth to Clyde : Peace being concluded abroad , Donald returned home , and passed the rest of his days in Peace , he dyed the eighteenth year of his Reign and was buried in Dunstaffage . 28. Ethodius the second Son to Ethodius the first , succeeded Donald , A. D. 216. A man of a foolish and cross Temper , unfit to Govern that fierce People ; but his Nobles managed the Government prudently , he at last was killed in a Tumult , made by his Domesticks the sixteenth year of his Reign and was buried in Dunstaffage . 29. His Son Athircus is made King , A. D. 231. At first he gave great grounds of hope , that he should prove an accomplished Prince , but it proved quite contrary , he turned extreamly profligate , prostituting Noble mens Daughters to his Companions : Upon which account one Hotholocus a Noble man conspired against him , which he perceiving , that there was no way to escape , killed himself the twelfth year of his Reign . 30. Athircus being Dead , Hatholocus procured himself to be chosen King , A. D. 242. A cruel and lascivious Tyrant , being acquainted that Ethircus his Children were with the Picts , he called the chief of the Nobility , whom he knew to have been Athircus his Friends , pretending he wanted their Advice , in some matters of State ; whent he had got them convened in one place , he caused them to be thrown in Prison , and soon after executed : Whereupon their Friends rebelled , and the King going about to gather an Army to subdue them , was killed by one of his Courtiers the eleventh year of his Reign . 31. Hathalocus being thus dead , Athircus his children are called home and Findochus , the eldest of them set upon the Throne , A. D. 253. a wise and valiant Prince ; his first Expedition was against Donald , of the Isles who under pretence of revenging the late Kings death , had raised an Army , him he subdued forcing him to flee to his Ships , where being hotly pursued , he got into a small Boat which being over loaden immediately sunk , and he perished , yet his Son whose name was Donald , keept up the quarrel against him . Hindoch , went with an Army entering the Islands wasted them so that they were left almost quite desolate . Donald finding his weakness betakes him to treacherous courses , and striking in with Carance the Kings brother , they instigated two Ruffians to Murther him , both which were tormented to death . The 11 th . year of his Reign he was buried in Dunstaffage . 32. To him succeeded his youngest Brother Donald the 2 d A. D. 264. An excellent Prince , while he was preparing to reveng his Brothers death he heard that Donald of the Isles had made an inroad upon Murray , not in the quality of a Robber , but of a King. Where upon commanding the strength of the Kingdom to follow him , he went against him with those forces he had in readiness , which Donald hearing of , took such tedious marches that he was close upon the Kings Camp before any was a ware , which obliged the King to fight , but the inequality of their number was such , that the King was defeated , most of his men killed , himself being wounded , with several of his Nobles were taken . He dyed the third day after , partly of his wounds and partly of Melancholy , the first year of his Reign , he was buried in Dunstaffage . 33 Donald , Lord of the Isles usurped the Crown A. D. 265. excercising much cruelty , none dared to oppose him having so many of the Nobility his prisoners whom he threatned upon every provocation to kill . At length Crathelinth Son to King Findochus , who having lurked long with his Nurse , and was believed to be dead , having gathered a few subtil men together went directly to Donalds Court , who dissembling both his name and quality became in a short time very intimate with him , but when he found his opportunity he put an end to the Tyrants days , the 12 th year of his Reign , conveying himself and his followers away undiscovered . There was all this time a sore Persecution of the Christians , under the Emperor Decius . 34. Crathelinth was set upon his Fathers Throne A. D. 277. A Valiant and religious King. He first caused all the late Tyrants Race to be Razed to the foundation for preventing the mischief might follow , he also purged the Land of Superstitions , planting the true Christian Religion . This King having peace on all sides , he addicted himself much to hunting , one day as he was at his sport , one of the Picts stole away a Dog in which he greatly delighted ; but the keeper of the Kings dogs being informed where he was kept , went to take him and striving to take him by force was killed in the place , which was the beginning of a sad war , that lasted a long time ; but at last by means of one Caransius a Roman , ( who was afterward King of Britain . ) they made peace . King Crathelinth passed the rest of his days in peace , and dyed the 24 year of his Reign , he was buried in Dunstaffage . 35. To him succeeded his Cousin German Fincormach , A. D. 301. A Prince both Pious and Valiant , he Joyned with the Britains against the Romans , and after a most Bloody battel routed them , pursuing them as far as Yorke . Having procured Peace abroad he wholly applyed himself to the utter extirpating of Idolatry . In his days fell out the ninth Persecution under Aurelius , and the tenth under Dioclesian , which gave occasion to many Christians from divers parts of the Empire , now a second time to flee to Scotland , for refuge as they had done once before under Domitian . Among those Fugitives who fled thither for shelter , from the general Massacre were many excellent men in Piety and Learning , whom the King not only did kindly receive but also imployed to assist him and his council in the further setling of Christianity in his Dominion , and in the total Extirpation of Idolatry out of it , which was so much the harder work because of the Druides , the principal false Prophets and Idolatrous Priests of those days who not only by their subtil Hypocrisy and sence pleasing Divine service but also by a cunning forcast having drawn into their hands the hearing and determining of Civel affairs , had so gained upon the spirits of the Poor and Simple people , that they could not imagine how to be without them and live . The resolute care and labour of this gracious King and his Council , together with the help of these Pious and Learned men , prevailed at last utterly to overthrow , and abolish the Groves with the Alters under the Oaks , and all Idol service ; and to Establish the pure worship of God in all places of his Dominions , filling the Rooms of these false Prophets with Godly and Learned teachers among the people , which was done in all places throughout the Kingdom , but especially in the Islands which those Pious men took for their particular abode , as being most fit for a retired life and namely in the Isle of Man , the King caused a Church to be built to the honour of our Saviour , these Holy men were for their labouring so much in Gods worship called Colidei or Culdees . This good King dyed in peace the 47 year of his Reign and was buried in Dunstaffage . 36. Romach brothers Son to Crathelinth , after a hot debate , by the assistance of the Picts , possessed himself of the Throne , A. D. 348. But proving a cruel Tyrant he was killed by his Nobles the 3 d year of his Reign ; in his time Christianity began in Ireland . 37. Augustian Another of Crathelinth's Brothers sons succeeded , A.D. 351. a Valiant and peaceable King. The late Kings associates , not thinking themselves secure fled to the Picts , whom they instigated to make War upon the Scots , in revenge of Romacks death : Augustian hearing of their purpose sent to Hertanus the King of the Picts , acquainting him how dangerous , a War betwixt them at that time might prove ; The Romans and Britains being so apt to take advantage of them , when they are low ; but all would not do , whereupon he went against them with his Forces and quite Defeated them , killing many of their Nobles . Afterward they renewed their strength , and came to the Wood of Camelon where the King of Scots with his Army lay , where they fought a most bloody battel on both sides , both the Kings were killed with many of their Nobles in the third year of his Reign . He was buried in Dunstaffage without Succession . 38. Fethelmack The youngest of Crathelinths Brothers Sons Succeeded , A. D. 354. A Valiant Prince ; he scarcely Reigned two years when having raised an Army he went against the Picts , and gave them a most fatal overthrow , killing their King in Battel , he was afterward Trayterously murthered in his bed , by two perfidious Picts , who insinuated themselves into his favour with the assistance of an Harper , the groans of the dying King being over heard by his Servants , they came rushing into the Room where they took the Villains in the very Act of their cruelty , who were afterward tormented to death . At this time St Andrews Church was built by the King of the Picts , at the request of St Rewell , he dyed the third year of his Reign , and was buried in Dunstaffage . 39. To him Succeeded Ewin the first Son to Fincormach . A. D. 357. A Valiant , Just , and good King. In his time the Romans resolving to be Masters of the whole Island , and to destroy both Scots and Picts , first Communicate to the Picts , their purpose to Eradicat the Scots , and that if they would be assistant therein they should enjoy all their Lands , holding it of the Romans . They as a base ungratefull people accepted the proffer . So that the Scots had now to do with Romans , Britains and Picts . In the first Battel the Romans and the others were worsted , but soon after the Romans renewing their strength , with all their Adherents Eugen , ( or Ewen ) upon the other hand convened all that could bear arms in his Dominions knowing they were to fight for no less then their Country , and Liberty . They engaged at the River Dun , the Battel was most bloody , with doubtful success for a while , but at last the Scots being over powered with fresh supplies from the Romans , were forced to fly , leaving the King and his Brother with fifty thousand of their men dead in the Field . They fled some to the Isles , some to Ireland and Scandia , they attempted several times to recover their Countrey but in Vain , till at length the King of Picts dying , the Roman Legat charged them that they should choose no other King but live under the Roman Government and by Roman laws , when they saw this they became some what sensible of their folly , and treachery to their best neighbours ; resolving at length to call them home and Joyne forces them , that the one might recover their Country , the other their Liberty . 40. Echadius the Kings Brother ( upon the late fatal defeat , ) finding there was no shelter for him in his Country departed with his Son Hutha , and his Grandson Fergus to Scandia , there they were kindly entertained . In process of time Echadius and Hutha dying , Fergus became a most Valiant man , gained great fame in France , and Pannonia . To him the Picts sent Embassadors inviting him home , promised there assistance toward the recovering of his Country , which he readily accepted of , and having arrived with a few Danes and Goths in his company ( the Scots , likewise gathering to him , ) he soon regained his Kingdom , being Victorious against the Romans in many Battels , at last he was killed in Battel by the Romans , the sixteenth year of his Raigne , and was buried in Icolmkill , which was the burial place for the Kings till King Malhiscom Kanmors days ; having left the Kingdom almost in as bad case as he found it . 41. To him Succeeded his son Eugenius the second , A. D. 420. A Valiant and Victorious Prince ; he managed the Government by the help of the Valiant Grame , ( whose father was banished out of Scotland , with Ethod Brother to King Eugenius the first ) who married a Virgin of the Blood Royal of Denmark , She brought forth a daughter to him which was married to Fergus the second , Eugenius his Father . this Grame being the Kings Grandfather was mighty helpful to him against the Romans : for he pulled down the wall of Abercorn built by the Romans called afterward Grames Dick , as also Adrians Wall , over against the Irish Seas ▪ By his help the Kings of Scots and Picts past with Fire and Sword through all the bounds between Tyne and Humber , here they fought a most bloody Battel in which there were 15000. Britains killed , together with most of their Princes and Nobles , but few of the Scots : by which means they totally expelled the Romans out of Britain , and brought the Britains under Contribution , reserving also to themselves the whole Land lying between Tyne and Humber . This Prince dyed the one and thirtyth year of his Reign , having the seventh year delivered his Country from the Romish Yoke , 496 years after that Julius Caesar brought them first under Tribute . 42. To him his Brother Dongard Succeeded . A. D. 451 - A Prince fitted both for war and peace , in his time the Pelagian Heresie infested the Church , for curing of which Celestine Bishop of Rome sent one Paladius into Scotland ; he is said to have been the first who Instituted Bishops there , for untill that time the Church was governed by Monks ▪ this King dyed the fifth year of his Reign . 43. Constantine the first Succeeded to Dongard . A. D. 457. A man full of bad qualities , cruel to his Subjects , but fearful of his Enemies , given up also to all kind of Lasciviousness : the Picts seeing his unworthiness broke with him , his Subjects also were at the very nick of Rebellion . He was slain in the two and twentyth year of his Reign by a Noble man of the Isles , whose Daughter he had defloured . 44. To him Succeeded Congall the first , A. D. 479. His first work was to reduce his Subjects from the sottish and base customs to which his Father had inured them . The Britains seeing him inclin'd to peace , perswaded Aurelius Ambrosius , to demand restitution of Westmorland from him , which he denying to do , they draw to Arms on both sides , but being better advised , they again agreed that things should stand as Constantine left them . During the Reign of Congall he had Wars with the Saxons , but no great action , In his time lived those two famous Prophets , Merlin and Gildas . He dyed the two and twentyth year of his Reign . 45. His Brother Govan Succeeded him , A. D. 501. who governed the Kingdom with great discretion . In his time arrived in Britain Occa and Passentius the Sons of Hengist , with an Army of German Souldiers against whom came King Ambrose and fought and routed them , but with small reason to boast of his Victory , for he lost the prime of his Nobility in that ingagement , he thereupon sent for the King of Scots and Picts to come to his assistance finding himself so much weakened Occa being advertised thereof , sent his Brother Passentius to Germany for assistance , who by contrary winds being driven upon the coast of Ireland , gathered a considerable number of Souldiers of fortune and returned home . In the mean time Ambrosius was Poysoned by Occaes means to him Succeeded the Valiant King Arthur , who by assistance of the Scots and Picts , obtained several great Victories against the Saxons . Govan having made peace with all his Neighbours returned home , He dyed the thirty fourth year of his Reign , not without suspicion of Treacherie in which Donald Captain of Athlo had no small hand . 46. Eugenius , ( or Ewen ) the third , Congallus the firsts Son Succeeded , A. D. 535. a wise and prudent Prince , he consulted with some of his Nobles about revenging the late Kings death , but found by their Coldness and Unconcernedness in the matter ground of suspicion , that they themselves were not Inocent of it , which made him dread their designes against Himself . Yet he managed the Government so wisely , that he dyed in Peace the twenty third year of his Reign . 47. To him Succeeded Congal the second his Brother , A.D. 558. A Prince of a very strict Life , contending even with the Monks themselves for Piety , he made many excellent Laws relating to Churches , and Churchmen . In his time lived these two Famous Men S. Colm and S. Mungo . He dyed in peace the eleventh year of his Reign . 48. Kinnatill Succeeded his Brother Congall , A. D. 569. At which time Aidan Govans Son come to Scotland , who being ntroduced to the King by S. Colm , was Graciously received with assurance that he should be the man who should Succeed to the Crown . He dyed in peace the first year of his Reign . 49. Aidan Accordingly Succeeds , A. D. 570. Soon after a Conspiracy being discovered , which some of his servants intended against his Person , the Conspirators fled to the Picts , who refusing to deliver them up to Justice when demanded , he quite broke with them , and Confederated with the Britains against them , and the Saxons , routing them in several Battels . about this time his good Friend S. Colm dyed to his great grief . Soon after Augustine the Monk came into Britain , being sent by Pope Gregory , who created much trouble by his innovations , in matters of Religion . This Prince dyed in peace the thirty fifth year of his Reign . 50. Kenneth the first , Congalls second Son Succeeded , A. D. 605. We have nothing Recorded of him worth noting , He dyed in peace the first year of his Reign . 51. Ewen The fourth , Aidans second Son Succeeded , A. D 606. He was Educated by S. Colm , but slighted his Injunctions in one thing , for that he preferred War to peace , his hand was heavy upon the Rebellious and Stubborn , but yet a modest Conqueror , he dyed in peace the fifteenth year of his Reign . 52. To him Succeeded his Son Ferchard the first , A. D. 621. A Vitious Tyrant , which his Nobility not being able to endure , called him to an account , but he refusing to submit was compelled ; having laid before him how injurious he had been to his Country , and what an Enemy to Religion , abetting the Pelagian Heresie , with many such things , they degraded him , and put him in Prison , where soon after he killed himself . 53. To him Succeeded his Son Donald the fourth , A. D. 632. He studied nothing more then to preserve and advance the Christian Faith , at home , and among his Neighbours , he sent some Learned Divines to Northumberland , to restore the Christian Faith , which was much decayed . He perished ( as some write ) in Lochtay , being there at fishing the fourteenth year of his Reign , but others affirm he dyed in his Bed. 54. His Brother Ferchard the second Succeeded , A. D. 646. A wicked Tyrant Impious toward God , and cruel towards Man , having strangled his Wife , and Deflowred his Daughters , his Nobles resolved to call him to account , but were disswaded by one Colmar a Religious Monk who told them that Gods hand would soon be upon him which accordingly fell out , For being at Hunting he was Bitten by a Wolfe , which caused a dangerous Feavour of which he dyed , declaring his sorrow for his former Life , the eighteenth year of his Reign . 55. To him Succeeded Malduin . Donald the fourths Son , A. D. 664. A wise and Religious Prince . the Argyle and Lenox men much infested the Country by their Animosities between themselves ; the Leaders of the Sedition he put to death ; at this time the Plague had over spread all Europe , whereof infinite multitudes dyed every where , but the Scots and Picts were preserved from it . This good King was strangled by his Queen , upon suspicion of Adultery the twentyth year of his Reign . She and her Servants were the next day burnt alive . 56. Ewin The first Malduins Brothers Son Succeeded , A. D. 684. Edfried , King of Northumberland Invaded Scotland , having the assistance of the Picts , but they deserting him he was routed and ten Thousand of his men killed . The next year Edfried Invaded the Picts , they pretending to fly drew him upon an Ambush where he and all his Army were cut off . The Scots and Britains also entering Northumberland , so afflicted that King that he was never able to recover his losses . Ewin dyed the fourth year of his Reign . 57. Ewin the sixth , Ferchard the seconds Son Succeeded , A. D. 688. A Religious and Learned King , he had neither certain Peace nor certain War with his Neighbours . He dyed the ninth year of his Reign , It is said that in his time it rained Blood for seven days over all Britan , that also the Milk Butter , and Cheese was turned into Blood. 58. Amberkelleth Succeeded , A. D. 697. At first he appeared a Sober Prince , but he soon put of the Mask , turning to all kinds of wickedness , he was killed by the Shot of an Arrow in the night time , the second year of his Reign . 59 To him Succeeded Ewin the seventh , his Brother , A. D. 699. He made peace with the King of Picts , and Marryed his Daughter , who within a year after ( being with Child ) was Murthered in her Bed instead of the King , by two Brothers of Athols , who had Conspired the Kings death . He was a good and Religious King , he dyed the sixteenth year of his Reign . 60. Ewin A little before his death recommended to the Nobles , Mordach Amberkeleths Son , who was chosen A. D. 715. An Excellent Prince , he procured Peace over all Britain , he repaired many decayed Churches , and built the Monastery of Whitehorne . He dyed the sixteenth year of his Reign . 61. To him Succeeded Etfin , Ewin the sevenths Son , A. D. 730. A Religious King and severe Justitiar , being aged , after that he had Reigned 30 years , he elected four Regents , viz. the Thanes of Argyle Athole Gallaway and Murray to govern his Subjects , but their Government was greivous . He dyed the thirty first year of his Reign . 62. Ewin the Eighth Mordachs Son Succeeded A. D. 761. His first work was to put to death Donald , Lord of the Isles , and the Earle of Galloway , for their cruelty in the Late Kings latter days . But he himself afterward degenerating into all Vices , was killed by his Nobles the third year of his Reign . 63. Fergus the third Etfins Son Succeeded , A. D. 764. He Married Ethiolia , Daughter to the King of Picts , who having several times admonished him of his adulteries at last with the help of some of his familiar Servants strangled him , and being accused thereupon confessed the fact , and presently stabbed her self to the Heart with a Dagger . The King was buried in Icolmkill the third year of his Reign . 64. Solwath Ewin , the Eighths Son Succeeded A. D. 767 , A Valiant Prince , He was much troubled with the Gout , of which Donald a Bane , Captain of the Isles . taking advantage proclaimed himself King of the Isles , breaking also in upon the Continent made great Havock , but at length was by Duchal Captain of Argyle and Duchal Captain of Athol beset in a Wood , where their was no way to Escape , their he and all his followers were cut to pieces . This good King dyed of the Gout , the twentith year of his Reign . 65. Acaius Etfins Son Succeeded A.D. 787. He made a new peace with the English and Picts , finding that the Irish intended to make war against him , because of a slaughter that was committed in Kintire , upon some Irish Robbers , yet he sent Ambassadors to Ireland , shewing how little ground they had to denounce war , and how little it would tend to their Honour to revenge the quarrel of a pack of Thieves , but they not giving ear to his peaceable message , presently Rigged out a Fleet , which was not two Nights at Sea , when it was utterly ruined by a storme , which made the Irish now supplicate for a peace upon any terms , which the King readily granted . He soon after made a League with Charles the great King of France , and Emperor of Germany , which continues inviolated to this day . For the corroboration of which , Achaius sent his Brother William with Forty thousand Valiant warriours to assist the aforesaid Charles in his Wars , against the Infidels where he purchased great Fame , being commonly called by the Princes of France : The Knight without Reproach . Before this time also some Learned Men , passed from Scotland unto France , among which Johannes Scotus who was Charles's Tutor was singular for his Learning who together with Clemens another of his Country men , Founded the University of Paris . Achaius Marryed Fergusian Sister to Hungus , King of the Picts , who bore to him one Son called Alpine who afterward Succeeded ; to be King of Scotland , and Heir to the King of Picts ; King Achaius dyed the thirty second year of his Reign . 66. To him Succeeded Congal , his Cousin German , A. D. 819. He Governed peaceably for five years . 67. Dongal Salvatius's Son Succeeded , A. D. 824. who having settled the peace at home , sent his Embassadors to the Picts , demanding the right of Succession in the name of Alpin , Son to King Achaius , being there own King dyed without Succession , which they refusing to do ; Dongal denounced war against them but he Unfortunatly Perished in a Boat as he was passing over the river of Spey , in the seventh year of his Reign . 68. Alpin Acaius's Son succeeded , A-D. 831. A Valiant Prince , he led the Army , which was raised by Dongall , against the Picts , to assert his Title to their Crown , wherein a most bloody Battel , he with his own hand slew Feredech their King ; then they Elected Brudus his Son , who was killed the first year of his Reign , in a Tumult raised by his Subjects : His Brother Kenneth succeeded to him , who coming with an Army against the Scots , rent off his Coat of Armour and fled to the Mountains , where he was shamefully killed by a Country man ( not knowing who he was ) whereupon the Picts Elected Brudus , a fierce and valiant Prince to be their King , who sent his Ambassadors to Alpine desiring Peace ; Alpine answered that he would make no Peace , untill the Crown of the Picts were set upon his Head , as the Right inheritour of it . Brudus upon this raised a great Army , and came over the Bridge of Dunkell , marching to Augus , where Alpin with his Army did lye . The night before the Battel , he devised a cunning Stratagem ; for having a great many Women in his Army , he caused them to stand in Battel Array , with linnen Shirts above their cloaths , ordaining some Horse-men to Command them ; he drew them into a Wood , Commanding none of them to appear , till the Armies had joyned Battel . King Alpin upon the Picts approach , presently led out his Men , and joyned Battel with them , then the aforesaid reserve began to move from their Ambush : The Scots seeing them , apprehended them to be a fresh Army of Picts , whereupon they immediately fled . In this Battel King Alpine himself was taken , and beheaded the third year of his Reign . 69. To him his Son Keneth the second succeeded , A. D. 834. Now the Picts fully resolve , to banish the Scots quite out of their Country , for which purpose they procure help from England . But when they were at their full strength , they divided amongst themselves to such a height , that Brudus was forced to disband his Army ; he soon after dyed for Grief , Donsken his Brother succeeded , who made it his work to keep Peace on all hands . But Keneth after three years uncertain Peace , being desirous at any rate to revenge his Fathers Death , and to recover the Crown , which by right did belong to him ; Convened his Nobles , and consulted with them concerning the matter , but finding them not inclined to it , he invites them all to a great Feast , which he had prepared of purpose , where they were Royally entertained within his Pallace untill dark Night ; after they had Liberally feasted , they were conveyed to several apartments within the Palace , and when deep sleep had seized upon them ; the King caused some Men that he had ready for that end , to pass to their several Beds clad with Fish-skins , which did cast a dazling light in the dark ; each man having a Hunting Horn in his hand , through which he spake . The Nobles being amazed at this sight , were desired by them , not to be terrified for that they were Angels sent from God , to the Princes and Nobles of Scotland , to cause them to obey the Kings Order ; it being very Just and Right , and that they needed not to fear the Success , for they should be Victorious . Their Speeches being ended , they in an instant vanished : This mightily astonished the Nobles , not knowing what to make on 't . It was no sooner Day light , than they got up and enquired one for another ; and having convened all together , every Man began to declare what appeared to him , which made them all presently conclude , that it was no Fancy , but a real Vision : The King also assured them , that the same Vision appeared to him at the same hour . Hereupon they Unanimously consented , that all who were able for Fighting , should meet the King upon a day appointed , which they did as the Picts did also upon the other hand ; they fought most Valiantly on both sides , but the Picts were routed in one , and quite ruined in another Battel ; their King and all his Nobles being killed . And their City Camelon after a long siege utterly destroyed , and razed ; and the Picts Men , Women , and Children put to the Sword ; after they had Reigned in Albion 1181 years . King Keneth brought the fatal Chair from Argyle to Scone , adding the Picts Dominions to his own , he dyed the twentieth year of his Reign . 70. Donald the fifth , Keneth the seconds Brother succeeded , having his Territories enlarged from the Orcades to Adrians Wall : He was a vicious and luxurious Prince , which gave the Fugitive Picts some ground to Hope , that they might recover their Lands , whereupon they requested Osbred and Ella two great Princes in England , to restore them , promising to pay Homage to them , they accepted the offer invading Scotland , with great Forces where they were miserably routed in a pitch'd Battle . King Donald proud of this Victory , pursued them to the Water of Tweed with his Army ; there he found two Ships laden with Wine , which he parted among his Souldiers , they not being much used to such Liquor drank of it , till they were not able to stir : Of which , when King Osbred was advertised , he came suddenly upon them , and killed 2000 of them , took the King himself , and carried him about in Derision . Osbred pursuing this Victory conquered great Lands in Scotland : So that Sterling-bridge was made the march between the Scots and the English . This Osbred Coyned money in Sterling Castle , which was ( as some think ) the first beginning of Sterling money . King Donald being ransomed , was soon after taken by his Nobles , and put in Prison , where he desperately killed himself , the fifth year of his Reign . 71. To him succeeded Constantine the second , who was Crowned in Scone . A. D. 859. Soon after Hunger and Hubba with a great Fleet of Danes Landed in Fife , to shun whose Cruelty , many religious Persons , with Adrian their Bishop fled into the Isle of May , where they were all Cruelly put to Death by the unmerciful Danes . Constantine with his Army met them at the River of Levin , where he overthrew them , pursuing them toward Caryl , where their Ships lay ; but the Scots being proud of this Victory , became too secure : Whereupon the Danes rallied upon them , where followed a terrible Battel , at last the Scots were defeated ; the King being taken , and dragged to a Cave was basely murdered , the fifteenth year of his Reign . 72. To him succeeded Ethus his Son , Surnamed the Swift , A.D. 874. His wickedness and Cruelty , came to so great a heigth , that his Nobles were forced to imprison him , where within three days he dyed of Melancholly , the second year of his Reign . 73. Gregory the Great Dungalls Son succeeded , A. D. 876. A Prince of a Kingly Spirit ; he made a Law , that all ●ings hereafter , should at their Coronation , swear to defend the Christian Faith. His first expedition was into Fife , against the Picts and Danes which were left there , when Hungar went into En●land ; them he expelled , not only out of Fife , but also out of Lothian , and the Mers . Coming to Berwick ; the Danes durst not venture to Fight him ; but leaving a Garrison in the Town , retired to Northumberland , to gather more Forces . But Gregory in the Night time , being Guided by some English-men entred the City , and put all the Danes to the Sword ; thence he went to Northumberland , there he utterly routed the rest of them , which gave him occasion to inlarge his Dominions with Northumberland , Cumberland , and Westmorland ; after which he entered in a League with the King of England , wherein his right to the foresaid Lands was ratified . His next expedition was against the Irish , who had Landed in Galloway , and committed great Insolencies , but at his coming they retired back to their own Country . He with a great Army followed them , where at his Landing , he overthrew Brennius and Cornellius , who were Guardians to the young King of Ireland , with their Nobles taking several Forts and Castles , at last he laid Seige to Dublin , where their young King was ; which after some resistance yeilded . The King returning Conqueror from Ireland , dyed the eighteenth year of his Reign ; by him the City of Aberdeen was built . 74. Donald the sixth , Constantine the seconds Son succeeded , A. D. 894. He was a Religious and good King , fit for either War or Peace ; he had some Ingagments with the Danes , and sent Assistance to the King of England against them , toward the latter part of his days , he was troubled with Intestine broils , for the Murrays , and Rosses invading one another , committed great Insolencies ; to quench this Fire the King came upon them with a great Army , and taking the Leaders of the Faction , put them to Death for an Example to others . He dyed the eleventh year of his Reign . 75. To him succeeded Constantine the third , Ethus's Son , A. D. 905. A Valiant , but unfortunate Prince ; the perfidious Danes , having broken their League with him joyned with the English , but within four years they met with such measures , as made them glad to return to the Scots : Whereupon followed a hot and cruel War , wherein Constantine found himself so unsuccessful , that he resigned his Crown , and betook himself to a Monastery , where he dyed the fortieth year of his Reign . 76. Malcolm the first , Donald the sixths Son succeeded , A. D. 943. A valiant Prince , and severe Justitiar . A Peace being made with England , wherein Cumberland and Westmorland were annexed to the Crown of Scotland , to be holden in Fee of the Kings of England ; this Prince passed the rest of his days , in executing of Justice , which he did with such strictness , that some Villains in Murray-Land conspired against him , where he was Traiterously killed , the ninth year of his Reign . 77. Indulf Constantine the thirds Son succeeded , A. D. 952. A brave Warrior , the Danes Landing in the North with a huge Army , he went against them , there in a pitch'd Battel , he routed them , but dyed himself in the Battel , the ninth year of his Reign . 78. To him succeeded Duff . Malcolm the first 's Son , A. D. 961. A Prince who much studied the Peace of his Country ; he went about his Northern Circuits , where he kept his Courts , severely punishing Malefactors ; coming at last to the Castle of Forress , suspecting no harm was Traiterously murdered by the Captain , and his Wife , who were afterwards apprehended and put to a cruel Death . 79. To him succeeded Culen , Indulfs Son , A. D. 966. Who having revenged the late Kings Death , soon after became a most Flagitious and wicked Prince , deflowring his own Daughters and Sisters : He was killed by Rodard a Noble man at Meffen , this Daughter he had deflowred the fourth year of his Reign . 80. Keneth the third , Duffs Brother succeeded , A. D. 970. The beginning of his Reign , was good , executing of Justice severely , finding his Nobles averse , to deliver up ther Friends and Vassals , who troubled the Peace , to Justice ; he called a Convention of the States at Scone , where having Clandestinely conveyed , some Men in Arms , where the Nobles were convened , made them all Prisoners , telling them , that so it would be untill they did give up those Rebels to Justice ; they finding themselves thus hooked , sent to their Friends , to perform the Terms of their Liberation ; thus in a short time he had five hundred notable Thieves , delivered up , them he caused to be every one hanged upon Gibbets , close by the Castle of Berth . The Danes with a great Fleet of Ships Landing in Angus , destroyed all before them , till they came to Berth , where the King and his Army ran-countered with them ; there followed a most bloody Battel , the Scots beginning to give Ground , were made to Rally by the means of one Hay and his two Sons , who hearing as they were at Plowing , not far from the Field , that the Scots fled , came each of them with a Club in his hand , and renewed the Battel , putting the Danes to flight , there they were all cut off , the King amply rewarded him , giving him so much of the best Land in Scotland as a Faulcon off a Mans hand , flew over , which was six miles in length , and four in breadth , this was the Original of the Noble and Ancient Surname of Hay . But that which darkned all this Noble Kings Acts , was his causing Malcolm Prince of Scotland to be Poisoned ; making a Law , that the Eldest Son , or Nephew of the deceased Prince of what age soever he be , shall succeed to the Crown , with divers others Laws of the like Nature : At last coming to the Castle of Felercarne , the Lady Grof had the Kings Image in Brass , in the midst of the House with a Golden Apple in his hand ; the King upon the Ladies desire , pulling the Apple out of the Images hand , was shot through the Body with an Engine , that was made in it for the purpose : He dyed the twenty fourth year of his Reign . 81. To him succeeded Constantine the fourth , Surnamed the Balde , A. D. 994. He came to the Crown by Usurpation , he was killed in Battel at Cramond in Lonthian , the second year of his Reign . 82. Grimus , Duffs Son Usurped the Crown , A.D. 996. Malcolm whose Right it was , sent to the Nobles , acquainting them how far he was wronged ; which Grimus hearing of , caused the Messengers to be cast into Prison , which was like to have been , the beginning of a War ; yet they were seemingly agreed for that time by one Horthadus a Bishop , but not long after his Vices being intolerable , Malcolm was brought home from England , who killed him in Battel , the eighteenth year of his Reign . 83. Malcolm succeeded to the Crown , A. D. 1004. A Noble and Valiant Prince , in his time Sweno King of the Danes being banished his Country , and coming to Scotland , was converted to Christianity , and supplyed with Men for reducing his Kingdom ; yet to his great loss he soon after made War against Malcolm , who utterly routed his Army several times : This Prince was killed by a Conspiracy , of some of his Nobles in the Castle of Glames , the thirtieth year of his Reign , the Conspirators flying in the Night , chanced to pass over the Pool of Forfar upon the Ice , where the Ice breaking , they all miserably perished . 84. Duncan the first , Malcolm the seconds Grand-son , by his Daughter Beatrix succeeded , A. D. 1034. He was thought to be of too indulgent a Spirit , for Governing that fierce and untractable People : Bancho of whom are descended the Ancient and Royal name of Stewarts , was in his time Thane , or Earl of Lochaber : He was Traiterously murdered by his Cousin Makbeth , the sixth year of his Reign . 85. To him succeeded Mackbeth , Malcolm the seconds Daughters Son , A. D. 1040. Altho' he came to the Crown by Treachery and Blood-shed , yet he Governed for a time pretty moderately , but at last brake out into all kind of Tyranny , and Cruelty , forcing his Nobles to the servilest of his Work ; which they being not able to endure , Macduff Earl of Fife , Posts to England , where he found Malcolm the late Kings Son , at King Edwards Court , whom he invited home to revenge his Fathers Death , and possess the Crown which was his own by right : Malcolm suspecting Treachery , pretended several excuses to try Macduffs sincerity , but when he found him Cordial , he declared his Willingness : Whereupon getting assistance of Men from King Edward , he entred Scotland ; Macbeth hearing of his arrival , went about to oppose him , but Macduff surprizing him in his Castle of Dunfinnan , killed him with his own hand , the seventeenth year of his Reign . 86. Malcolm Surnamed Kanmor , Son to Duncan the first succeeded , A. D. 1057. He was a worthy Prince , and in Compensation of their Service and Loyalty , in his Restauration created many Earls , Lords , Barons and Baronets , commanding that their Lands should be called after their Names : He made also his Thanes Earls ; many new Surnames began at this time , as Calder Lochbart , Gordoun , Seytown , Lander Kennethe , Meldrome , Schau , Liberton , Livermond , Cargill , Strachan , Ratray , Dundass , Meazeis , Mertine , Cockbourn , Lesly , Abercromby : At this time also William Duke of Normandy conquered England , which was the occasion that these Surnames ( being expelled their Country ) came to Scotland . viz. Ramsay , Vans , Lindsay , Lownal , Towres , Preston , Bissat , Foules , Wandlaw , Maxwell , from France came the Names of Frazer , Sintcare , Boswel , Montray , Montgomry , Boyes , Campbel , Beaton . At this time Walter Son to Fleance came to Scotland , who shortly after was created high Steward of the Kingdom . King Malcolm was killed at the siege of Anwick , by one Robert Moubray , who came from the Castle upon a light horse holding in his hand a Lance , with the Keys of the Castle upon the point of it . King Malcolm looking stedfastly to the Lance , the other run him through the Eye with it , escaping to the next Wood : Whereupon King William changed this Moubrey's Name to Percy : King Malcolm dyed the thirty sixth year of his Reign , and was buried in Dunfermling . 87. Donald the seventh , Sirnamed Bane , being Malcolm Kanmores Brother usurped the Crown , A. D. 1093. But within a year he was expelled by Duncan , base Son to the foresaid Malcolm . 88. Duncan the second usurped the Crown , but did not enjoy it long , being killed by Macpendar Earl of Mearnes at Taich , by procurement of Donald the seventh , who after was Crowned King. He gave the North and West Isles , to the King of Norway for his assistance , to recover the Crown . He was taken Captive by Edgar his Successor , and put in Prison , where after some years he dyed miserably . 89. Edgar , Malcolm , Kanmores Son succeeded , A. D. 1098. He was the first anointed King , Governing with great Wisdom and Sobriety : He dyed the nineteenth year of his Reign , and was buried in Dumfermling . 90. To him succeeded Alexander the first , Sirnamed Fierce , A. D. 1107. Soon after his coming to the Throne , certain Traitors were by his Chamberlains means let in to his Chamber , intending to have killed him in Bed , but he being surprised at their noise , got out of Bed and caught a Sword in his hand , wherewith he killed the Chamberlain , and six of the other Traitors ; the rest hasted away , but being pursued , and some of them overtaken Confessed , that divers of the Nobles were in the Conspiracy , them the King pursued , killing some and taking others : He dyed in Peace the seventeenth year of his Reign , and was buried in Dumfermling . 91. To him succeeded his Brother David the first , A. D. 1124. He possessed Northumberland , and Cumberland , Huntington , and Westmorland . He married Maud Daughter to the Earl of Northumberland , who dyed in the flower of her Age , for which the King took such Grief , that he resolved never to Marry again ; but gave himself wholly to works of Charity . He purged his Court from all Vices , so that his whole Family were given to Vertuous Exercises , no Rioting nor Drunkeness , nor Lascivious , or wanton Songs were suffered : This Victorious and Religious King dyed in Carlyle , the twenty ninth year of his Reign , and was buried at Dumfermling ; where King James the first visiting his Tomb , called him , a Sore Saint to the Crown . 92. Malcolm the fourth ( Sirnamed the Maiden ) next Heir after King David began his Reign , A. D. 1153. A just and mild Prince ; in the beginning of his Reign , there was a great Famine in Scotland , whereof many dyed . Sumerled , Thane of Argyle , taking advantage of the present Calamity raised a Rebellion , purposing to make himself King ; but he was soon crush't , his Friends killed , and himself forced to fly to Ireland ; soon after , being invited to London , by King Henry of England , under pretence of confirming him in his Title , to Northumberland , Cumberland , and Westmorland ; he carried him with him into France , where he had Wars for that time ; he no sooner was returned home , then he made War with England , to the great loss of both Kingdoms : He dyed at Jedburgh , the twelfth year of his Reign . 93. To him succeeded William his Brother , Sirnamed the Lyon , A. D. 1165. He demanded Northumberland , which by Right belonged to his Crown , to be re-delivered to him , which the King of England ( being taken up with Wars in France ) durst not altogether refuse ; but condescended to let him have such parts of it , as his Grand-father possest ; but soon after he was by a Stratagem taken Prisoner at Alunick , and sent to France where the King of England was , whence not long after he was Ransomed with a sum of Money ; being returned home , he expelled all the Murrays out of Murray-Land , for that they were Seditious and Tumultuous in his absence : About this time the Pope sent to King William a Sword , with the Sheath and Hilts all of Gold , set about with precious Stones with a Hat , or Diadem , giving him the Title of the Defender of the Church . After this , he retired to Bertha , where he stayed not long , when by a sudden Inundation of two Rivers , Tay and Almond ; the Towns Walls were beat down , the Castle demolished , the young Prince and his Nurse with several others drowned ( the King himself narrowly escaping : He founded and built the City of Perth , granting to it several great and ample Priviledges . He dyed the forty ninth year of his Reign , and was buried in Aberbrothick . 94. His Son Alexander the second succeeded to him , A. D. 1214. Having pacified all Rebellions at home , he led his Army into England , where having made Peace with King John , he married his Sister : Afterward he went into France and renewed the old League with this Addition , that neither of them should receive , or protect the Enemies of the others Kingdom , nor Marry with any Stranger , without making one another privy thereto . In the mean time his Queen dyed without any Succession ; within a year after he married Mary Daughter to Ingelram Earl of Coucy in France , who bare to him Alexander the third ; in his time came Cardinal Egadius into Britain , to beg Money for the Holy War , of which he got a great deal , but going through France he spent it all , and told his Holiness , when he came to Rome , that he had been robb'd by the way : Whereupon presently another Legat was sent to Britain . But the People hearing , how they were cheated of their Money by the last procured an Order , discharging this not to enter the Kingdom . King Alexander dyed in Peace , the thirty fifth year of his Reign , and was buried at Melross . 95. Alexander the third succeeded his Father , A. D. 249. Being nine years of Age at his Coronation . Ambassadors were sent to England , demanding Margaret King Henry the third's Daughter in Marriage for King Alexander , which was granted ; the next year , the two Kings had a meeting at York , where the Marriage was Solemnized . During his Minority the Realm was well Governed by his Nobles ; taking the Government upon himself , his first work was to summon the Earls of Monterth , Athole and Buchan , and the Lord Strabogy , who were all of the Name of Cumings ; they not daring to appear , were denounced Rebels : They being now afraid , thought nothing so much for their safety , as the having the King in their Power , which they got , and confined him in the Castle of Sterling ; but the Earl of Athel , who was the head of the Party , dying , their Hearts failed them , and ( every one of them getting his Remission ) they set the King at Liberty ; soon after the Danes with a great Army invaded the Country , the King with his Forces went against them , and routed them , killing twenty four Thousand of them ; the King returned to Norway with only four Ships , which was all that was left of his whole Fleet. At this time Alexander Earl of Carrick , passed to the Holy-Land , having a Daughter who succeeded to his Estate ; she Married Robert Rance , Lord of Annaudale , and bare to him , that noble and invincible Champion Robert Bruce King of Scotland : King Alexander had two Sons by his Queen , viz. Prince Alexander and David , and one Daughter Margaret , who was married to the King of Norway ; she bare to him Margaret called the Maiden of Norway . The King and Queen going to London , to the Coronation of King Edward the first : David the second Son dyed in their absence ; within a few years after the Prince dyed at Lundores , to the great Grief of the Nation , and not long after the King dyed by a fall from over a Rock at Kinghorn , the thirty seventh year of his Reign : Leaving none of his own direct Line to succeed him . The Nobility having met upon this so important occasion , they put the Kingdom into the hands of six Regents ; for the South side Robert Arch-Bishop of Glasgow : John Cumine , and John the great Steward of Scotland . For the North , the Arch-Bishop of S. Andrews , Macdiff Earl of Fife , and Cumine Earl of Buchan . Edward of England , sends to demand the Daughter Grand-Child in marriage , as next Heir to the Crown , which was agreed too , but the Death of the Lady frustrated all that Negotiation , by which means great contention arose between Bourn , and John Baliol. Baliol managing the English , and Bruce the French interest , Baliol being in the second degree of relation and Bruce in the third ; the one being David Earle of Huntingtons Grand Child , the other his great Grand Child : matters standing thus , the whole was referred to King Edward , who coming to Berwick and calling Lawyers to his assistance , pretends all equity , but raised up eight other Competitors , the better to weaken the claim of the other two , and so handled the business that ( Bruce having refused the Crown in Homage to England , ) upon his aceptance of these conditions . 96. John Balliol was declared King , A. D. 1293. In the fourth year of his Reign , an Appeal being made against him to King Edward , by Mac-Duff and he refusing to rise from his Seat to answer it . King Edward enters Scotland masters the Country , takes Baliol and sends him Prisoner to London , and afterward to France , where he dyed long after in Exile . About this time Sir William Walace arose , who to his Honour did so Heroically defend his Country , in its low condition , as made it easily appear that if he had had as happy a fortune to advance , as he had to relieve , he might have been Commemorated for as great a man as ever was in any age ; for having upon a quarrel Slain a Young English Gentleman , and enforced to lurk in the Hills for safety of his life , he became inured to such hardness , that awaking his natural Courage , he be came the Head of all the Malecontents , and filled both the Kingdomes with his terror so that having gleaned up to a tumultuary Army , he became Baliols Viceroy ; thus after some little skirmishes he reduced all beyond the Forts : after which he went to England , and Ranged up and down for some time , and returned without opposition ; after which the English enters Scotland with a great Army , and finding the Scots disposed under three Leaders , ( who disputed among themselves for Priority ) quite routed them , but soon after they made a general insurrection , to oppose which , King Edward sent Ralph Conniers with a great army , who a by tripple Victory were defeated at Kolkin . All this while Robert Bruce continued with King Edward , who weary of the Kings delays and offputs , at last strikes in with John Cumin , Baliols Cousin german , they agreed that Bruce should have the Kingdom , and Cumine all Bruces Lands . Cumine notwithstanding communicates this agreement to King Edward , Bruce hath notice , and by shooing his Horse backward escapes to Lockambban , there he finds Cumines Letters advising to cut him off , upon which he hastens to Dumforess , where he heard that Cumin was , and after his exprobrating his infidelity , Stabs him dead in the Franciscan Monastery . About the same time Walace was traiterously Betrayed by Sir John Monteits at Glasgow , and delivered to the English : and being brought to London was Cruelly executed in Smithfield , and his Limbs hung up in the most Eminent places . 97. Robert Bruce was ( after he had stayed for the Popes absolution for defiling the Monastery , with the murder of Cumine ) Crowned at Scone 1306. a Valiant and Heroick Prince , he had many Enemies both at home and abroad , which Edward taking advantage off , with the assistance of the Cumines , quite Routed him , forcing him to the Hills where he endured great Misery , to the great ruine and Slaughter both of his Family and Friends , but making to gether some little force , he took Carrick and Innerness , by surprisal , and by this means augmented his Train , so that he was in case to withstand Edward , having obtained a considerable Victory ( though sick and forced to be held on horse back ) this gave him time to take in the remaining strength , but they were within a year retaken from him , which incouraged Edward the second to enter with a great Army to Scotland , but had a great defeat at Bannokburn , which occasioned the loss of Berwick , and Bruces confirmation in Parliament ; some few years after were spent in light Skirmishes , and Incursions . Robert having some rest convened his Nobles intending to determine the right of Inheritances , which some had unlawfully kept in these unsettled times ; this begat a Conspiracy , which being detected , a meeting was held at Perth , there by their own Papers many were Convicted , and Executed but some Pardoned . In the mean time a Legat came from Rome , armed with all the Thunderbolts of that See , to threaten the Scots into a Peace with England ; but missing of his Errand , the Scots followed him with an Army , and marched as far as Stainmore ; Edward in revenge raiseth a most powerfull Army , Robert therefore considering that his force would not be in case to resist so great a Power , caused all the cattel to be carryed unto the Avious retreats of the Hills , that they might not be serviceable to the Enemy , whereupon the English for want of Victuals were forced to retire , Bruce pursues them as far as Yorke , there he obtained a great Victory . About this time the family of the Hamiltons took their rise , one of them killing an English Gentleman , fled to Robert for Protection , who gave him lands which retain the name to this day . Bruce now having subdued his enemies , begins to compose himself to the cares of Peace , and by Act of Parliament settles the Crown upon his Son , ( though a Child ) and in case of his decease , to Robert Stewart his Grand-child by his Daughter , soon after Thomas Randolph , and James Dowglas were sent with a flying party of horse into England , from whence they returned without any considerable action , saving only that Dowglas with two hundred horse beat up the English quarters , cutting two ropes of the Kings Tent with his Sword , and made a good retreat , Bruce finding himself wasted with Age , retyred to the Abby of Kilross , leaving these three Counsels behind him . First not to let one man Solely command the Ebudae . Secondly never to put all their strength at one Hazard with the English . Thirdly never to make long Truces with them . Thus he dyed leaving Charge with the Valiant Dowglas , to go to Jerusalem ( whither himself designed an Expedition ) which the Dowglas performing , he afterward Joyned with the Christian Princes against the Turks and Saracens , where he obtained several great Victories . He purposing to return home was driven by a Tempest upon the Coast of Spain , where he joyned with the King of Aragon against the Saracens , and obtained great Victories , at last he was killed by an Ambushment that was laid for him of purpose , thus ended the Noble and Valiant Dowglas , one of the most renowned warriours that lived in his days ; It is said that he was thirteen times Victorious against the Turkes and Sarazens , and fiftie seven times against the English . In the preceeding age there was a Gate in Dansick called the Dowglas port , in memory of this Dowglas . King Robert dyed at Cardross the twenty fourth year of his Reign , and was buried in Dumfermling . 98 To him Succeeded his Son David Bruce A. D. 1330. Being seven years of age , Thomas Randal who was continued Governour , kept the country in entire peace and prosperity , which King Edward hearing of , hired a Monk to kill Randal by poyson , the Monk giving out that he had great skill in curing the Stone ( where with the Government was sore troubled ) came to be in favour with him , which gave him opportunity to perpetrate his Villany , how ever the Poyson did not take effect at first , but the Monk returned home and told King Edward that he had done his business , who immediately raising a great Army came to the border , of which the Governour being advertised presently marched against him , ( himself not being able to ride nor go , was carryed in a litter ; when King Edward heard that the Governour was there , in person , he sent an Herald under pretence of seeking peace , whom the Governour received with a very austere countenance , when Edward was by the Herald certified of the truth of his being alive , he returned home and burnt the Monk alive . The Governour returning home dyed at Musselbrough , after his death the Earle of March and the Earle of Marr were chosen Governours , in which they were scarce warm when news was brought that Edward Balliol was seen in the Fryth with a formidable Fleet , his Army consisted of both English and Scotch , the Earle of Stafford with divers other English men of note were with him , the Governours raised two great Armies to oppose the Balliol , he came near the water of Hone , where he pitched his Tents , the Earle of Marr also encamped within view of him , but he slighting the smallness of their number took little care of himself , the Balliol in the night time passed the water of Erne , having intelligence of the Ford by a stake set up for that purpose , and entering the Earle of Marrs Camp , killed him in his Bed , with many other Noble men and Gentlemen ; namely the Earle of Carrick , Sir William Hay Constable of Scotland , Alexander Frazier , also Robert Keith , Lord Marshal , Balliol past immediately and beseiged Perth and soon overcame it . The Earle of March being encamped at Ochterarder , and hearing of the Earle of Marrs death , and the taking the Town of Perth marched thither and beseiged it , but after he had filled the Ditches , and put himself in a case to make an assault , he most shamefully left it thereupon . 99. Balliol usurped the Crown at Scone , A. D. 1332. coming from thence to Perth , they that adhered to David , Bruce beseiged him and his party , upon the other hand his adherents wasted and destroyed the beseigers country , Perth being well fortified , was by the King committed to the Earle of Fiffe as Governour of it , but the Sons of them who were killed with the Earle of Marr at Duplin , beseiged and took it committing the Governour to the Castle of Killdrummie . Andrew Murry of Tullibardin , was Executed for fastning the stake in the Ford of the River Erne , whereby Balliol and the Englishmen were directed the Night wherein they Surprised the Earle of Marre . Therefore John Kandal Earle of Murry , and the Earle of Galloway gathered a great Army and came against Balliol and quite routed him , killing many of his Nobles and taking many Prisoners , the Kingdom being thus divided the one part for Balliol , the other for Bruce , the King of England thinking it a fit time for him to make a full Conquest of Scotland , raised a great Army and beseiged Berwick , mean while Archibald Dowglass raised an Army and entring the Borders , Burnt all before him to divert the King of England from the Seige , King Edward advertised of this , sent a Messenger to Sir Alexander Setonn , who was Governour , telling him that if he did not presently render he would hang his two Sons , whom he had in his hands , which he refusing to do the two Young Gentlemen were presently hanged then the Governour came with an Army to Northumberland where a most Bloody battel was fought on Halidown-hill , and the Governour himself with many Nobles killed , thereupon Berwick was rendered , and Edward Balliol Established King , who sought by all means to have gotten Robert Stewart in his hands , for he knew that ( next to King David ) his Title was best to the Crown . Soon after King Edward prepared an Army both by Sea and Land , to enter into Scotland , but the most part of his Ships Perished in Forth . The King returning with Balliol into England , left Cumin Earle of Athol Governour who seized upon all the Lands pertaining to Robert Stewart and his Friends , but Robert Stewart took the Castle of Dunne , and killed all the Englishmen therein ▪ at this time the Earle of Murray came from France , who together with Robert reduced much of the Country to the obedience of King David chasing the Governour and his Followers to the Mountains , but the English entred with a great Army and ( though a great part of their Army was routed ) took Perth , but their Fleet being harrast at Sea , were forced to retreat , and the rather in design of a French War , but some of the Nobles still standing out , the English landed in Murray , and reduced all , and leaving Balliol returned home , the next year the English beseiged Dunbar , and sent in two Parties under Talbot and Monford who were both routed , yet the seige continued , at last they were forced to raise the seige , also having received great loss by the Valour of Robert Stewart . Murray in the mean time dying , Stewart was created Viceroy till Davids returne , who having the first year gained some Victories , did the next year take Perth , Sterling and the Castle of Edenburgh , the Scots gaining all their ground except Berwick . In the year 1336. David resolves upon an expedition into England , though much disswaded by his council , Making John Randolph General , himself going disguised , Soon after a peace for two years was treated of , which David would not accept without the consent of France , whereupon marching as far as the County of Durham , had his Army quite routed and himself taken Prisoner , his Kingdom also in a manner Depopulated with the Plague : by this time John of France was also made Prisoner in England ; the Scots after eleven years Captivity , ransomed their King , who at his returne punished some of those who had deserted him at Durham , and endeavoured to remove the Succession of the Crown from Robert Stewart , to whom he was some years after reconciled ; he spent the last five years of his Reign in composing Domestick feuds , Queen Jane daughter to Edward the second of England dying , he Marryed Margaret Logy , Daughter to Sir John Logy , then he purposed to have past to Jerusalem , having provided all necessarys for his Voyage , but he fell sick of a Feavour in the Castle of Edinburgh , whereof he dyed in the fortyth year of his Reign , without Succession , and was buried in Holyrood-house . 100. Robert Stewart the first King of that Name , succeeded his mothers Brother , A. D. 1378. A Valiant and worthy Prince , he Married Eupham Daughter to the Earl of Ross , who bare to him David , Earl of Strathern , Walter Earl of Athol , Alexander Earl of Marr , with several Daughters . After her Death , he marries Elizabeth Moor his own Concubine , the better to Legitimate Children he had by her , he honoured them with Titles , and declared them his Successors , two years after an Attempt is made upon Berwick ▪ and Sir John Lilbourn , and 〈…〉 grave Captains of it taken 〈…〉 After this , the Earl of Douglass came with twenty thousand Men , to the Fair of Pennire within England , spoiling all the Goods there ; but carried away the Pestilence with him , whereof many dyed . To revenge this , the English came with a great Army over Solway , destroying all before them , mean while the Scots gathered together about five hundred Men. and lay in Ambush , till the English returned back ; then with a sudden noise and Clamour , as they passed by they set upon them , forcing them back , till many were drowned in Solway . Not long after , Edward King of England dyed ; whereupon the Duke of Lancaster came into Scotland , intreating to have a Peace for three years , which Peace being expired : My Lord of Galloway , laid siege to the Castle of Lochmaban , and made himself Master of it ; defeating a strong party of English , who were coming from Carlyle to it's relief : King Richard fearing of it , sent the Baron of Gray-stock with a Body of Men , to fortifie Roxburgh , who being within a mile of it , he was taken by the Earl of March , and carried to Dunbar ; the same year , the strengths of Teviotdale were by the Earl of Douglas recovered out of the English hands , soon after which he dyed . His Son James succeeding to him , went by the Kings Order with an Army into England , whence he was presently after Counter-manded home , where he found the Admiral of France with two hundred and forty Ships well Man'd , come to their Assistance , with them they passed into England and took the Castles of Warkford , and Corwal . And laying siege to Roxburgh , and Carlyle ; the Scots and French could not agree , in whose Names the strengths should be kept if they were won , which brought the business to nothing : Whereupon King Richard in revenge enters Scotland with a great Army , and marching through the Mers and Louthian , did much hurt . But the Earls of Fife , Douglas and Galloway followed him into England , and secretly passing the Water of Solway , came to Cokermouth ; where in three days time they spoiled the whole Country about , and returned safely with great Booty . In the year 1388. The King past again into England with an Army , at which time the Irish taking their advantage , entered Galloway , destroying all before them : Whereupon William the Lord of Galloways Son pursued them to Ireland , and burnt the Town of Carlingfoord , and finding sixty Ships in several Harbors , loaded fifteen of them with the spoil of the Town , and burnt the rest : Returning home , he spoiled the Isles of Man. The next year , the King of England sent an Army into Scotland , which did much hurt in the Mers , revenging this affront : King Robert sent two Armies into England , the one under the Command of the Earl of Fife , entred Cumberland ; the other led by the Earls of Douglass , and March entred Northumberland ; the two Armies met within two miles of Newcastle . The Earl of Douglass chose out ten thousand Men to besiege Newcastle , wherein was the Earl of Northumberland with his two Sons , Henry Hotspur , and Ralph . Henry Challenged the Earl of Douglass to fight with him , which Douglass accepted off , so being mounted upon two starely Horses , they assaulted one another desperately , at last Douglass beat Peircy out of his Saddle , but he was presently rescued and brought into the Town . Immediately Douglass assaulted the Town , but it was so well defended by the English , that he was forced to retire and encamp at Otterburn , whither Henry Peircy immediately followed , there they fought a bloody Battel , until the darkness of the Night parted them , but when the Moon began to appear , they joyned again with more Fierceness than before , Victory inclining sometime to one side , and sometimes to another ; till at last Patrick Hepburn came with fresh Men to the Scots : Whereupon the English retreated , leaving eighteen hundred of their Men dead in the place , and a hundred and forty taken Prisoners ; among which were the two Peircies above mentioned . But the Valiant Earl of Douglass dyed in this Battel , being thrice run through the Body , and Mortally wounded in his Head , which was a greater loss and Grief to his Nation , then the gain of this Victory could ballance . The next year a Parliament was called at Perth , wherein Robert Earl of Fife , the Kings second Son was elected Governor , the King himself by reason of his great Age , not being able to Govern. He was a Valiant , Victorious and fortunate Prince in all his Wars , for his Governours and Captains returned always with Victory . He was very constant , and a great Iustitiar , hearing patiently the Complaints of the Poor ; causing all wrongs to be redressed . He dyed peaceably in the Castle of Dun-Donald , the seventy fifth year of his Age , and the nineteenth year of his Reign . The same year John his eldest Son was called to succeed , who thinking that Name ominous to Kings ( and there wanted not Examples ) as of him of England , and him of France , and thinking something of the Felicity , of the two former Roberts , was Crowned by the Name of , 101. Robert the third , A. D. 1390. He was more remarkable , for his Peaceableness and Modesty , then for any other Vertue ; the first seven years of his Reign were past in Peace , by reason of his Truce with England , but not without some fierce Fiends among his Subjects ; especially , the Clankays , and Clanchattes , the King seeing the Difficulty of reducing them , made this Proposition to them , that three hundred of each side should try it by Dint of Sword before the King ; the Conquered to be pardoned , and the Conqueror advanced , this being agreed to , a place was appointed upon the North-side of Perth ; but when the Clans presented themselves , there was one of one side missing , whom then his party could not supply : A Trades-man steps out , and for half a French Crown , and promise of Maintenance during his Life , filled up the Company . The first was furious , but none behaved himself more furiously , then the other Mercenary Champion , who was the greatest cause of the Victory , for of his side their remained ten grievously wounded , the other party had but one left ; who not being wounded , yet being unable to sustain the stroak of the other , threw himself in the Tay , and escaped with his Life : By this means the fiercest of the two Clans , being cut off , the remainder being Headless were quiet : Two years after , the King in Parliament made his two Sons Dukes , which was the first time that Title , was known in Scotland . Next year Richard the second of England , being forced to resign , Henry the fourth succeeded , in the beginning of his Reign , tho' the Truce was not expired ; yet the Seeds of War began to bud , upon this occasion , George Earl of March betrothed his eldest Daughter to David the Kings eldest Son , Archibald Earl of Douglass incensed at this , got a Vote of Parliament to revoke this Marriage , and giving a greater sum of Money , got a Marriage confirmed in Parliament , betwixt David and Mary his Daughter . The Earl of March nettled at this , demands Redress , but not being heard , he leaves the Court ; and with his Family and Friends goes into England , to the Lord Percy , who with his Assistance did much hurt to the Lands of the Douglasses ; the Scots declare the Earl of March an Enemy , and sends to demand him of the English , which they refusing , several Incursions happened upon both sides , till at length Piercy was defeated by the Douglass's at Lynton-bridge . At this time , David Earl of Cravford , and the Lord Welles in England , ingaged to run certain Courses on Horse-back , with sharp Spears for Life and Death upon London-bridge , which they performed most gallantly . The People Perceiving the Earl of Cravford to sit so stifly , cryed , the Scotch man was lock'd in his Saddle ; he hearing this , leapt out of the Saddle upon the Ground , and presently mounted again , to the great wonder of the Beholders : The second time they run without any hurt , but the third time the Lord Welles was beat out of his Saddle , and sorely hurt with the fall . By this time the Queen dying , her Son David , who for his Extravagancies was by her means kept under restraint , broke out into his former disorders , and committed all kind of Rapine , and wickedness ; complaint being brought to his Father , he committed him to his brother Robert ( this Design was to root out all that Off-Spring ) the business was so ordered , as that the young man was shut up in Faulkland Castle to be starved ; which yet was for a while delayed , one Woman thrusting in some Oaten Cakes at a Chink , and another giving him Milk out of her Breasts , through a Trunk ; but both these being discovered , the Youth being forced to tear his own Flesh dyed of a multiplyed Death , which Murder being whispered to the King , he was so abused by the false Representations of his Brother ; that Grief and Imprecations was all the relief that he had left him , and being now retired sickly , to Boot Castle , and unable to punish him . The King therefore Solicitous to preserve James his youngest Son , is resolved to send him to Charles the sixth of France : And having taking shipping at the Bassas , he passed by the Promontory of Flambrough ; and whether he was forced by a Tempest , or that he was Sea-sick , he was forced to Land there , he was taken by the English , and detained Prisoner , notwithstanding the eight years Truce ; and tho' it came to be debated at the Councel Table , yet his Detention was carried in the Affirmative : But the News so struck his aged Father , that he had almost presently dyed ; but being carried to his Chamber with voluntary abstinence and Sorrow : He dyed within three days , the sixteenth year of his Reign , and was buried in Pasley . Upon this , the Parliament confirm Robert for Governour ; about four years after , Donald of the Isles enters Ross as his pretended Inheritance , with ten thousand Men , which he easily subdued ; thence he went to Murray and Mastered it also , and so went on to Aberdeen ; to stop this Torrent , Alexander Earl of Marr , followed by most of the Nobility , met him at Harlaw , where they joyned in so bloody a Battel , and lost so many noble and considerable Persons , that tho' Night parted them , neither could pretend to the Victory , to this year , the University of S. Andrews owes it's Rise : The English being taken up with a War with France , nothing considerable was acted between them and the Scots , for ten years after , at which time Robert the Governour dyes , and Murdoch his Son ( a very unfit Person , ) was put in his place ; who suffered his Sons to come to that petulancy , that they were not only offensive to the People , but with all disobedient to their Father ; who having a brave Faulcon , which his Son Walter had often begged , but in vain , he snatched it out of his Fathers hand , and wrung off her Neck , for which his Father being angry Well says he , Since I cannot Govern thee : I will bring one shall Govern us both : And from that day , he ceased not to further the Redemption of the King , he Governed four years . 102. But the Nobles weary under this form of Government , the Governour being also irritated by the Misdemeanor of his Children , all Unanimously determine without longer delays , to work the deliverance of their Native Prince James , fourth of England , which at length was effected , Anno. Dom. 1424. Having Ransomed him for the sum of forty hundred thousand Marks . He married Jane Daughter to the Duke of Somerset , Son to John of Gaunt , who bare to him two Sons , Alexander who dyed shortly after , and James the second who succeeded to him . The King having passed the Solemnities of Hasterat Edenburgh : He with his Queen came to Perth , and from thence to Scone ; where he was Crowned in the twenty seventh year of his Age , after he held a Parliament at Perth , where the Tax was laid on to pay the sum promised to England for his Ransome , from thence he went back to Edenburgh , where he called such as were Concerned with the Crown Rents together ; he understood by their Accounts , that the most and best part of the Crown Lands were alienated , and wasted by the late Governour , and his Sons , whereat he was exceedingly incensed ; yet that time he smothered , and put a fair Countenance upon his Passion . But soon after , pregnant Accusations were brought in against some of the Nobility ; especially , the Governours Friends , upon which some of them were made Prisoners , which occasioned much discontent and Jealousie on both sides , yet the King securing the Body of this Estate on his side , resolved to go on ; and having Arrested the Governour , with two of his Sons , and several others his Friends , they were all committed to several Prisons : Whereupon James the Governours youngest Son , in a desperate rage accompanied with a number of Out-laws , came to Dumbarton , and set on Fire , and killed John Stewart the Kings Uncle , with thirty others . This Insolency of the Son , quite diverted the Kings Clemency from his Father and Brethren : Whereupon he calleth a Parliament at Sterling , where the Governour with his two Sons , and his Father-in-Law the Duke of Lenox , were Arraigned and Condemned , and soon after Executed ; this highly perplexed some other Lords and Gentlemen , who were Prisoners at the same time , fearing that they should also meet with the same measures ; yet the King like a wise Physitian , being not willing to take away more Blood , than he thought would take away the Disease of the Body , in a short time set them all at Liberty . The Wars continuing between France and England , the French sent an Ambassador to renew the ancient League with Scotland : But his main business was , to carry on a match between Lewis the Daulphine , tho' then very young ; and Margaret Daughter to King James , this match the English neglected , but afterward most earnestly sued for it . The South parts of the Kingdom , being brought under Obedience , the King resolved to have the North follow their Example , for which end he went thither himself in Person , to keep his Courts : When he came there , he found things in a strange Condition , all going by strength of hand ; the stronger overthrowing the weaker . The King not knowing well how to go about the taming of these rude Villains , seemed to give small Faith to what he heard of them , allowing such of them , as seemed to come and see him a great deal of seeming Favour , till at length he got forty of their Chiefs all at once , within the Castle of Innerness , whom he presently surprized , making them close Prisoners : Within a few days after , the King was convinced of this wickedness ; Alexander Macrory , and John Macherter were hanged ; John Campbel for murthering John of the Isles , was beheaded : The Earl of Ross being taken in this Trap , was brought by the King to Perth , where he was accused of Oppression and other things ; yet the King pardoned him , and freely dismist him , taking his Oath of Fidelity . But as soon as he went home , he gathered together a Rabble of Out-laws , who came towards Innerness , burnt both Town and Castle to the Ground : Whereupon the King himself went with his Forces against him , at whose approach all the Rebels fled : Alexander thus abandoned of his Forces , fled to the Isles ; but finding that he was way-laid on all hands , and had no way left him to escape , he came disguised to Edenburgh : Whereupon Yesterday the King being at Church , he came wrapped in a mourning Garment and fell down at his Feet , beging his Life , which at the Queens request was granted ; but to keep him from any more mischief , the Earl of August was appointed to take him into Custody , within Tanutallon Castle . Donald Balloth Cousin-german to the Earle of Ross raised a great number of outlaws and invaded Lochaber , and in a Bloody Battel overthrew the Earles of Marr and Caithness at Innerlochy , the news coming to the King he came with a great Army to Dunstaffage , which when the Clans heard of , they tendred their Submission to the King , promising to break Balloth and his party , which the King accepted of , Balloth fled to Ireland where he was taken and his head chopt off and sent to King James . Notwithstanding of the many Acts of Justice that were done upon these disorderly outlaws , yet nothing frighted one Macdonald , who was Famous for all sorts of Villanies ; among other Cruelties he is said to have nailed Horseshoes to the Soles of a Widdow , because that she swore to delate him to the King being taken with twelve of his associates , and brought to Perth , the King caused them to be shooed in the same manner as he had served the woman , draging him about for a Spectacle to the people for three days , then all of them were put to death . In this year A. D. 1430. the first of June was a terrible Eclipse of the Sun , at three of the clock in the afternoon , the day turning black for the space of half an hour , as though it had been night , which was afterward called by the common people The black Hour . The King having setled the Country , begins to look to his own affairs , and having advisedly perused all evidences and Charters belonging to the Crown , he recalls all such Lands as had been either alienated from it , or wrongfully usurped , about this time there came Ambassadors from the King of Denmark requiring of King James a Yearly Tribute , due to him as King of Norway for the western Isles , the Ambassador was honourably entertained , and the old League renewed with Denmark ; soon after the French Kings Ambassadors came to have Margaret already betrothed to Lewis the Dauphin , delivered to them and conveyed to France , where they found the Lord Scroop earnestly dealing with the King , that he must bestow his daughter upon King Henry the sixth of England , promising that if he would agree thereto , that the Town and Castle of Berwick should be delivered into the hands of the Scots , with all the Lands lying between Tweed and the Redcross in in Richmondshire , the French Ambassadors also proffered great and tempting things , withal puting the King in mind how true they have been to him for so many years , since the first making of the League . The King and his Council after mature deliberation , declare they will not break the Ancient League with France , whereupon the English Ambassadors turned from Prayers to Threatnings , and being denied friendship denounced War. But the King no wise moved hereat presently prepared his Ships , and with a company of able and skilful Mariners set his Daughter to Sea , and having escaped the English Fleet that waited for her , safely arrived at the Rochel , A. D. 1430. The English to revenge this supposed afront invades Scotland both by Sea and Land ; against their forces commanded by Henry Piercy of Northumberland , went James Dowglass Earle of Angus , with several Gentlemen , their numbers were much about one , the lists of their meeting was Popperden , Adam Hepburn of Hales , and Alexander Elphinston led the Vanguard of the Scots , Sir Richard Piercy and Sir John Ogle of the English , Sir Alexander Ramsey of Dalehouse , and Henry Clidsdale kept the Rears , no sooner came they within distance of Joyning but the sounds of Drums and Trumpets , was out noised by the shouts of the Assailants ; Guns being about this time invented were here first practised between the Scots and English in an open field , then the fight with equal order had been long maintained on both sides , now the Scots then the English yielding ground , many of the Commanders at length began to fall , most of the English , then was the Piercy at once constrained to be both Commander and Souldier , but all would not do , at last Victory declared her self altogether for the Scots , two hundred Gentlemen and Common Souldiers of the Scots were slain here . Of the English dyed Sir Henry Cliddsdale , Sir John Ogle , Sir Richard Piercy with fifteen hundred Gentlemen and Common Souldiers , and four hundred taken prisoners , of which forty were Knights ; King James resolving to prosecute this War raised an army , and cometh to Roxburgh , beseigeth the Castle defended by Sir Ralph Gray ; But when he came so near his designe that they within were driven to terms to Surrender : The Queen in great hast cometh to the Camp representing to her Husband a Conspiracy , which if not suddenly prevented would indanger his person and Crown , this put the King in great astonishment , not knowing what to do , at last after many doubtful resolutions and conflicts in his thoughts , raiseth the seige , disbandeth the Army , and accompanied with some chosen bands of his most assured friends , Perplexed Pensive and Sad returned to Perth , staied in the Convent of the Dominicans , indeavouring so secretly as was possible to find out the Conspiracy , but his close practising was not unknown to the Conspirators , which made them hasten the mischief before tryal , or remedy could be thought upon . The Conspirators were Robert Graham , Robert Stewart Nephew to Waller Earle of Athole , and one of the Kings sworn Domesticks , but he who gave motion to all was the Earle of Athole , he himself the Kings Fatthers Brother ; this quarrel was no less then a pretended Title to the Crown , and being animated by the Oracle of a Southsayer , who assured him that he would be Crowned in a solemn Assembly before his death , never doubted of success . These having associated unto them the most audacious , whom hope of preferment might intice . Thus Graham and Stewart which were accomplices guided with resolution , and guarded with the darkness of the Night , came to the Black-fryers of Perth , and having the way made open to them , entred the Gallery before the Kings chamber door , where they attended some of their Confederates , who should have stole away the bar by which means they might enter the chamber , but before their coming the occasion was put in their hands , for Walter Streater one of the Kings Cup bearers came forth of the Chamber and finding armed men , rushing rudely to force their entry , with a loud voice gave the alarum of Treason , while they were working his death a Maid of Honour got to the Door , and essayed to shut it , but the bar which should have made it fast was gone , she thrust in her Arm in the place of it but that easily broken , the conspirators rush into the Chamber , and slaying all such of the waiters as made defence , they at last stroke down the King , ( whom while the Queen by interposing her body sought to save , she received two wounds ) and he with twenty eight most toward the heart was left dead . The report of this Murther being spread abroad , wrought incredible Sorrow and Grief in the Hearts of his Subjects of all sorts , the Nobles of their own accord and motion Assembled to Edenburgh , and directed Troops of Armed men through all the quarters of the Kingdom , to aprehend the Murtherers ; such diligence was used that within forty days all were taken and put to Ignominious Deaths : the common sort of the Conspirators were hanged upon Gibbits , the punishment of Athol was continued for three days , the first day he was Stript naked to his shirt , and by a Crane fixed in a Cart often hoisted aloft and thus dragged along the great street of the Town , on the second day he was mounted upon a Pillar in the Market-place , and crowned with a Diadem of burning Iron with this Inscription , the King of all Traytors , thus was his Oracle accomplished , the third day he was laid naked upon a Scaffold , his belly ript , his Heart and Bowels taken out and thrown in a Fire before his eyes , lastly his Head was cut of and fixed in the most Eminent place of the Town , his Body sent in quarters , to the most populous Cities of the Kingdom , to remain a Trophy of Justice . His Nephew was not altogether so vigorously handled , being only hanged and quartered . But it being notorious , that Graham had imbrewed his hands in the Kings Blood , a Gallows being raised in a Cave , he had his Right hand nailed to it , and as he was dragged along the Streets , Executioners with burning Pincers , tearing the most Fleshy part of his Carcass ; being thus torn and flayed , his Heart and Intrals were thrown into a Fire , his Head set up , and his Quarters sent among the Towns , to satisfie the wrath and sorrow of the injured People : Being asked during his Torture , how he durst embrew his hand in his Princes blood , he made answer , that having Heaven and Hell before him , he dared leap from Heaven into Hell ; an answer worthy for such a Villain . Dueas Sylvius then Legat in Scoltand , from the Pope ; having seen this sudden and Terrible revenge , being a Witness of the Execution : Said he could not tell , whether he should give them greater Commendations , that revenged the Kings Death , or brand them with a sharper Condemnation , that distained themselves with so Hainous a parricide . Thus dyed this Noble and Wise Prince , in the thirteenth year of his Reign : He was buried in the Charter-house of Perth , which he himself had founded . 103. The three Estates of the Kingdom , set the Crown upon the Head of James the second at Holy-rood-house ; while yet a Child in the sixth year of his Age , A. D. 1437. The Government is intrusted to Alexander Levingston of Calander , and the Custody of the Kings Person , to Sir William Crichtoun : Whereupon Archibald Earl of Douglass , grudging that these Honours had been conferred upon Men far below himself , retired home and gave Orders , that none of his Vassals should acknowledge the present Government ; also he used all means to weaken the hands of the Chancellor , and Governour , sowing ( by his Instruments ) the Seeds of Division between them , which accordingly answered Expectation , they begin to cross and Counter-act one another , which made them at length that neither of them was obeyed , the Country , having usurped a Licencious Liberty , doing what he thought best . The Queen seeing things thus mis-managed betwixt them , and finding that the Chancellor was mostly to blame , she at last resolves to change the Game of State. To effect her design , she came to Edenburgh ; and with fair Speeches prevailed with the Chancellor , to let her enter the Castle ▪ and delight her self some days in the Company of her Son ; after some days staying , where having fixed every thing for her purpose , she puts the King into a Trunck , as if he had been some Fardel of her Apparel , and conveys him by water to Sterling , presently after Proclamations are made against the Chancellor , and he Commanded to render the Castle , which he refusing to do , he is presently besieged . But the two Rulers being better advised , considering that Douglass waited to see them undo one another , come to an agreement . Much about this time , the Queen Dowager married James Stewart's Son , to the Lord of Lorn , the Governour fearing what might follow upon the Novation , committed them both to the Castle of Sterling , then the Queen began to repent her , of her former Courtesies to the Governour , resolving once more to Face about ; which the Chancellor observing , lays hold upon the Opportunity , and strikes in with her presently , they contrived how to take the Prince out of the Governours hands , which they after effected thus , the King being one Morning hunting in the Park ( the Governour being at Perth ) the Chancellor coming to him by the Queens assistance , prevails with him to go to Edenburgh , and take the Government upon himself ; which when the Governour hears of , he very calmly came to Edenburgh , where the Chancellor and he becometh Friends . The great Confusions that were in the Country , did necessitate the the calling of a Parliament , where many grievous Complaints were brought against several Oppressors ; and among the rest William Earl of Douglass , Son to Archibald ; was represented as the Source , whence the Miseries of the Country sprang : The Parliament resolve to proceed against him , by way of Rigour , but the Governor and the Chancellor advise them rather to write a fair Letter to him , and invite him by fair means to come in and submit , which was accordingly done , and wrought so effectually upon him , that he resolves presently to obey ; hoping thereby to get himself set up : He upon his arrival , was together with his Brother David , and Sir Malcolm Flyming of Cummerald , with great Ceremony conducted by the Governour to the Castle of Edenburgh , where the King was ; at this Table he was set to Dine , this so elevated his Heart , that he Blessed himself with the Expectation of other Favours . But amidst these Entertainments ( behold the Instability of Fortune ) near the end of the Banquet , the Head of a Bull ( which was the sign of present Death in those days ) is set down before him : At which sudden Spectacle , he leapt from the Table all agast , but he is presently seized upon by armed Men , who led him to the outer Court of the Castle , and notwithstanding the Tears and Crys of the young King , that they might spare his Life , he together with his Brother and Flyming , had their Heads cut off : This Act left Grief and Terror in the Hearts of the People , who ever after hated the Actors of the Tragedy . The Kings Nonage being now near expired , he takes the Government upon himself , and finding the two Rulers being so long settled in the Government ; not to be Ambitious and Head-strong , he resolves to entertain another Faction more powerful than they : So setting his thoughts upon William Earl of Douglass Son to the Baron of Abercon , him he received into Favour . This sudden change of Court , moved the two Rulers to withdraw , after which they were both removed from their Offices ; and at last summoned before the King , to answer such things as they should be Legally accused of . They finding that there was a design upon them , did not appear : Whereupon they were both forfeited . This produced great Confusion in the State , all being divided into Factions , and Parties : Whereupon followed much Effusion of Blood ; especially , between the Layndsays , and the Ogletives . Douglass to keep himself high , did much abett these Broils , making his own use of them ; yet not long after , the Chancellor notwithstanding Douglass's power , and Policy , is restored to his Fortune and Dignity . The King being setled upon the Throne , married Mary Daughter to the Duke of Gnilders , soon after , the Peace with England expired , and the Borders of both Kingdoms , break and mutually invade each other , which issued in a Truce for seven yeers . But this Truce stood not long , both Nations being equally inclined to break it : Whereupon after several Incursions on both sides , at last they came to a Battel . The Scots were Commanded by the Earl of Ormond , the English , by the Earl of Northumberland , Magnus Red-beard ; a man trained from his Youth in the Wars of France , who is said to have required no more for his Service to the Crown of England , then that by his own Valour , he must Conquer of Scotland . Here it is valiantly fought for a long time , with doubtful Victory , till at length Magnus being killed , it inclined to the Scots , the loss of the English was great , many brave Men being killed and taken Prisoners , upon their side , but the Scots lost few of any Note , except Cragy Wallace : This Battel brought on a Truce for three years . This Victory no sooner was obtained , and thereby Peace abroad , but presently they fall out at home ; this Douglass being always the first mover of strife : But now finding himself over-powered by Adversaries , both at Court and in the Country ; he leaveth the Kingdom and goeth to Rome , he was not long gone , but by the means of his Enemies , he is cited to appear before the Council upon several days together , with his Brother and Vassals , to answer such things as should be objected against them ; and upon not appearing , are all denounced Rebels : the Earl of Douglass hearing of this unexpected News at Rome , takes a Journey , and comes to the Borders of Scotland ; whence he sent his Brother to Court to know the Kings mind towards him . The King promised upon his Submission , to accept of him , which he performed , making him for his further Encouragement Lieutenant General of his Forces : But he stood not long privately in his Prosperity , for going to the Court of England upon some design , the King was highly dissatisfied with him , yet upon his humble Submission he is pardoned , but divested of all publick imployment within the Kingdom . Thus being degraded from his Honnour 's , he gives himself wholly to study revenge , and that he might the more successfully effect his Design ; he gets the Earls of Cranford , Ross-Murray , the Lord Balveny , with many other Barons and Gentlemen , to enter in a Confederacy , both offensive and defensive with him , after they broke out in unsufferable Insolences ; spoiling and plundering the Lands of such as were not of their Faction , and killing , and destroying such as offered to oppose them . The King begins to be apprehensive of their Design ; therefore thinks it high time to look to himself and his Country : Whereupon he sent for Douglass , to come and speak with him at Sterling , which he at first feared to do , but upon second Thoughts , he accompanied with many of the Confederates went to Court , where the King very Graciously received him ; the day being far spent , the Gates of the Castle shut , all removed except some of the Council , and the Guards , the King takes the Earls apart very friendly , and remembred him of Favours received , and wrongs forgotten : Taxing him with the exorbitant abuses of his followers , then he told him of a Covenant , which he heard was made betwixt him and some of the other Nobility , and desired to know what he had to say . Douglass answered in plain terms , it was so , but that the Covenant was made for his own safety , the King further expostulated with him to break it , which he refusing to do , the King with his Dagger ended the Quarrel , killing him in the place . About the end of this Tragedy , a pair of Spurs between two Platters , is directed to Sir James Hamilton , as a part of the Kings Banquet : Whereupon he and the rest takes the Allarum , and setting Fire to divers places of the Town , they make their escape ; the King to vindicate himself , emits Declarations , shewing all his good Subjects the Reasons that moved him to take Douglass's Life , that it was not a fit of Passion , nor an Act of private revenge , but meerly to save the State from utter Ruin : Yet the Mobile were diversly affected some justifying the Fact , as Noble and Just , but others ( as the greater number ) as boldly Condemned it , as Inhumane and Cruel ; these of the League missing no Opportunity that was for their Interest , made it their work to sow Sedition and Discord , and to encourage all Breaches and Contempt of the Laws , which encreased their number , so that the King was reduced to a very low condition , till at last Cranford one of the Confederates being routed , by the Earl of Huntly , he recovered some strength , and having called a Parliament at Edenburgh , summoned the Confederate Lords to appear before , which they scornfully refused to do : Whereupon the King levying an Army , forced them to retire ; yet the Country suffered sadly , by their unbridled Fury . At length after much loss on both sides ( the King daily prevailing , the Earl of Cranford submitted himself to his mercy , as several others did afterward . Whereupon the Earl of Douglass fled to England , there having gathered together several desperate Men , he made several inroads upon the Border . The King having with much difficulty recovered the Royal Authority of his Ancestors , ( England in the mean time being at the point of utter ruine by the contest of Henry the sixth , and the Duke of York , ) was much solicited by both of them , but he told the Ambassadors that he had more reason to look to his own concerns , then to assist either of them which he intended to do , thereupon raising a Powerful Army he passed the Tweed , and besieged Roxburgh , where having applyed his battery to the Castle , he began to storm it , but by the space of an over-charged Piece the King's thigh bone being broken was struck immediately Dead , the twenty Fourth year of his Reign , having left three sons James who succeeded Alexander Duke of Albany , and John Earl of Marre , and was buried at Holy-Rood house . After his death the Queen with her Son came to the siege and encouraged the Nobles , who took and demolished the Castle , and also the Castle of Warke . 104. To him Succeeded his Son James the third , A. D. 1460. A good Prince corrupted by wicked Courtiers , who with advantage of his years being but seven years of age when he began to Reign , his education is intrusted to his Mother , the Government of the Kingdom to the Earls of Anaudale Castle , Orkney and the Lords , Boyd and Graham , the Bishops of St. Andrews , Glasgow and Dnubek . In this Princes Nonage great confusions increased both at home and abroad , at home by the Islanders who extreamly infested the country , and came as far as the Blairth of Athole and burnt S. Brides Church , where the Earl and his Lady took Sanctuary , carrying them to the Island Ila , from whence as these Savages were going further , they were all miserably destroyed by a tempest . Nor was it better abroad , England being in a flame by the Civil Wars , Henry being taken and released again by his Queen , flees to Scotland desiring their assistance against his Enemies , and that he might be the better heard caused the Town of Berwick to be delivered to the Scots ; thereupon the Queen who managed the War geting some supply , marched ( taking the King with her ) into England , but was soon overthrown at Durham . A. D. 1466. the Queen of Scots dyed having left many sound and profitable instructions to the King her Son , who now coming to fifteen years of age , is by his Regents committed to the Lord Boyds Brother to be Educated in the Excercise of Chivalry , by which means the Boyds became to darken all others in the State , nothing being done without them , the Kenedies who had been the Kings best Friends , seeing things go thus left the Court , after which the Glory of the Court and Country suffered a great Eclipse . The Lord Boyde to be yet higher gets the sole Government setled upon himself , which laid the Foundation of his ruine , and not satisfied with this , he obtains his Son to be Married to the Kings eldest Sister , this highly displeased the rest of the Nobility that his ambition should be so boundless , which gave matter to his former Enemies to work upon , all oppression and violence is winked at on purpose at last they procure Complaints from all parts of the Kingdom against the Boyds , which made the Kings affection begin to turn away from them . A. D. 1468. A match being proposed and agreed upon between the King and Margaret Daughter to the King , of Denmark , the Boyds Enemies procures the Earl of Arran who had Married the Kings Sister to be sent to bring home the Queen ; he was no sooner gone then his Interest at Court began to fall , for a Parliament being called ; the Lord Boyd and his Brother Sir Alexander are summoned to appear thereupon he distrusting this Case fled to England , but his Brother was taken and Arraigned , the Earl of Arran also though absent is declared a Rebel . The Queen arriving with her fleet arriving in the Ferth , My Lady Arran went aboard in disguise and informed her Husband of the calamity of his House , perswaded him to do for himself , whereupon he hoisted Sails and returned with his Lady to Denmark . The King sendeth Letters full of promises and threatnings to move his sister to return to Scotland , which when she did she was constrained to be divorced from her Husband , and to Marry James Lord Hamilton ; not long after the Earl of Arran dyed in great misery at Antwerp . Queen Margaret the third year after her Marriage brought forth a Son who was named James , the King of Denmark to Congratulate the happy delivery of his Daughter , released all his claims to the Isles of Orkney and Sherland , but in the midst of this calm a cloud begins to overcast the Kings Splendor , for his Brothers being Princes of unquiet and restless spirits they set themselves altogether to study Novelties , and to bring him into contempt with his Subjects , to this end they had drawn away many of the young Nobility and Gentry to follow them . The King was Naturally Superstitious , giving much head to divinations which gave also his Brothers occasion to vilifie him , and incense his people against him , yea the Earl of Marre became so Insolent that in the Kings own presence , he began to raile against the Government of the state and Court , which the King highly resenting , caused to Imprison him where he fell in a high Fever whereof he dyed . The Duke of Albany imputed the death of his Brother to the Court party , but while he was keeping his Cabals in order to an Insurrection , he was surprised and Imprisoned in the Castle of Edenburgh out of which he soon after made his escape to France , thence he came to England , and began to tamper with King Edward , revealing to him the weakness of the Kingdom of Scotland , and how easily it might be subdued , the Nobility not respecting the King but much affecting a change in the Government , which by his assistance might easily be effected , he promised also to settle a corespondence with the Nobles of Scotland which he did , then that they might get their design wrought , gives way for the breaking loose of the Borders , fierce incursions are made by the English upon Scotland and by the Scots upon the English , and the discontented Nobility blame the King for all , thereupon pretending the necessity of the times and the danger the Kingdom was in , they entered into a Bond of association after which they enter the Kings bed chamber , where they seized some of his Servants in his presence and put them to death , as incendiaries in the state . About this time the Duke of Gloucester set forward toward Scotland with two and twenty thousand men , finding Berwick two strong for him he marches directly to Edenburgh , there by publick writings at the Market places he gave out high demands , all which King James being shut up in Edenburgh Castle answered with silence , the disatisfied Lords having obtained what they chiefly aimed at , wished the English at home again therefore they desire a peace with them , which the Duke of Gloucester granted upon condition that all his demands were satisfied ( one of which was to reinstall the Duke of Albany ) which after much debate was granted and he with his Army returned home . The Duke of Albany having recovered his Estate and Honours , his first work was to restore the King to his Prerogatives , reconciling him to his discontented Lords ; but he himself stood not long in his favour , for by the advice of some of his Enemies about the King a Plot is resolved upon to bring the Duke within compass of Law , which he being aware of fled to England to present to King Edward and the Duke of Gloucester his grievancies , in his absence he is convinced of many points of Treason whereupon he and the Lord Crightton his Associate are both forfeited , which when he heard he presently caused to give up the Castle of Dunbar , whereof he was Lieutenant , to King Edward , who immediately put a Garison in it . Not long after the said King Edward dyed , and his Brother Richard Duke of Gloucester Succeeded . The Duke of Albany obtains five hundred Horse from King Richard with which he came with the old Earl of Douglass to Lochmabban to surprise a Fair which was held there , whereupon the Laird of Johnston who was warden dispatched Posts about for supply of men with which he Encountred the Duke , here it is most Couragously fought on both sides but at last the English are quite routed , the Duke hardly by swiftness of his Horse escaped , but the Earl of Dowglass is taken and brought in Triumph to Edenburgh where the King adjudged him to perpetual confinement , soon after followed a Truce with England for three years , but before the time was expired Henry Earl of Richmond came with some Companies out of France , ( of which that Famous warriour , Bernard Stewart , Lord Albany Brother to the Lord Darnly had the leading , ) which by the resort of his Country men turned into an Army and Rencountred Richard at Bosworth where he was killed , and Henry Proclaimed King of England . King James taking advantage of this change besieged Dunbar , which was soon surrendred upon Articles . After this King Henry sent Embassadors to King James , to agree if possible upon a lasting , and firm Peace between the two Crowns , at length after some difficulty they agree upon a Truce for seven years . The King having settled a Peace with England , betakes himself to the Exercise of Religion , having founded a Colledge for divine Service in the Castle of Sterling ▪ he endeavoured to annex the Priory of Goldingham to it . The Priors of this Convent , having for many years been of the Name of Humealedged , that they were wronged of their Right : First they began to Petition , but finding this uneffectual , they began to associate with their Neighbours , giving it out that the King was a meer Tyrant , not to be trusted , by which means many of the Hearts of the Subjects were alienated from the King. The King understanding how things stood he made choice of a Guard to defend his Person , resolving to live beyond the River Ferth ; of which , when the Lords of the Insurrection were certified , they surprize the Castle Dunbar , and tumultuously over-run the Countries , besouth the Ferth : Thus coming to Lithgow , they resolved to make the Duke of Rothesay the Kings own Son their Head , whom having corrupted his Keepers with Bribes , they constrained to go with them . But the King loosing neither Courage , nor Councel passeth the Ferth , near Blackness with his Forces , before his arrival at this place , the Earls of Montross , Gleancan , Lords , Maxwel , Ruthwen with others , being advertised by Letters came to him , they of the Association , having the Prince with them , to add Authority to their Quarrel . Gathered from all Quarters , the two Armies being in readiness to decide their Quarrel by Battel ; the Earl of Athole the Kings Uncle , so travelled between the Lords of either Party , that the King had a Suspension of Arms agreed on . The Earl rendring himself a pledge for the Accomplishment of the Kings part , of the Reconcilement to Lord Hails . Thus the King lost a good opportunity , the like of which was never again in his offer , for the Lords notwithstanding that was agreed upon , continued very troublesome to the Country , the Town of Edenburgh , is pestered with Troops of armed Men. The King warned of his danger , fortifies the Castle of Edenburgh for his defence ; then he sent to the Lords , to understand their Intentions , and what they meant , they finding their offences flew higher than hope of pardon could reach , answered that nothing could secure them , nor the Kingdom until he had divested himself of all the Government of the Kingdom , and resigned the Crown in Favour of his Son. But he resolving to hazard all rather , then condescend to this , was advised by some of his Friends , to retire to the Castle of Sterling , where his Forces might have more easie Access to him , but this proved a a fatal advice for coming thither , the Treacherous Constable denyed him entrance , in the mean time News came to him , that the Confederates were within six miles of him at Falkirk . The King to make a Vertue of necessity , resoves to put all upon the hazard of a Battel ; the Confederates were incamped near the Torwood . The King set forward with his Army upon the other side of the Torwood . Both drew up in a plain field near Bannock-burn , and engaged most desperately : The first Charge is valiantly given , and Lance meeting with Lance , the Vant-Guard of the Lords began to yield ground . But the next Charge being given by Anandale Men , the middle of the Kings Army is beat back to the main Battel , notwithstanding of which it is fought a while with great obstinacy on both sides , until the Standard Royal was beaten down ; then began the Kings Army to bow the Horsemen , obeying no Orders , begun to turn their backs . In this rout and Confusion of Horse and Foot , the King seeking to retire towards the River Ferth , by the fall of his Horse in leaping a Ditch , being sore bruised , was carried by such , who knew him not , to a Well at Bannock-burn ; where he was killed in cold Blood , by Borthwick a Priest with some others , the twenty ninth year of his Reign , and was buried at Kambush-Kenneth . 105. To him succeeded his Son James the fourth , who was Crowned at Edenburgh , A. D. 1489. Being about sixteen years of age , a noble and Couragious Prince , and Godly ; the beginning of his Government was most uneasie , the Death of the late King , being yet recent , his followers resolve to have it revenged . In the North , Alexander Lord Forbs displayed the Bloody shirt of the murthered King upon a Lance in Aberdeen , and other places of the North , inviting the Country as by an Herald to the revenge of his Murther . In the West , the Earl of Lennox hath the same resolution ; also the Earl of Marshad , Lords , Goodore and Lyle , with the Confederates in other parts of the Kingdom . But the Lord Drumond routed the Earl of Lennox at Telliemoss , and also Sir Andrew Wood , obtained a considerable Victory over the English ( who pretended to revenge the late Kings death ) at the mouth of Ferth . The Rumor of these Victories , so amazed Forbs and his Confederates , that they laid down their Arms , and put themselves into the Kings mercy , and were all received into Favour . The Lords rejoyced greatly , that they had brought things to this pass , but the King gave no sign of Joy ; yea upon the contrary , to give a Testimony to the World , of the Agony of his mind , for the Death of his Father ; and that Remorse and Anguish he suffered for the Faults of those , who brought him to the Field against him , he girded himself with an Iron Chain , to which every third year thereafter , he added some Rings and weight , so long as he lived , and though this might threaten no good to some , yet they pass it by , not daring to Attempt ought against the common Peace . Amidst this Grief and Sorrow of the Kings , Andrew Forman Secretary to Alexander the sixth Bishop of Rome , arrived in Scotland , with Instructions to the Clergy , in a Letter , from his Master , to the King and Nobles , exhorting them to the mutual Duties of their Stations , after this some Head-strong Nobility dying , the Country enjoyed a great calm of Peace , the Seeds of Dissention , seeming to be quite taken away . But the Borders keeping up their old fewds by new Accessions , make daily Incursions one upon another , which came at last to open Hostility : Whereupon King James enters England , and spoils all the North parts , and returns home without any considerable Action , not long after Ambassadors came from England , desiring a Peace ; which is granted , and the Commissioners for both sides met at Edenburgh , where many Articles and conditions of the peace were hotly disputed , one of the Englishe's demands was an Interview between the two Kings at Newcastle , which being referred to King James his own arbitrement , he answered , that he meant to treat of a Peace , but not to go a Begging for it . Much being said at last they conclude upon a Peace for some Months following ; after which followed a match between King James of Scotland with Lady Margaret the King of Englands Eldest Daughter , which was consummated at Edenburgh . King Henry bringeth his Daughter as far as Cokebiston in the way , and then resigning her to the Earl of Northumberland , who with a great train of Lords and Ladys brought her to Edenburgh to the King her Husband , where they for some days , were taken up with nothing but Banqueting , masks , and Tilting , with such other exercises ; by this means the King wasted his Treasures greatly ; then some of them set their wits awork , to squeeze the Subjects for Money , which occasioned great murmurings among the Poor . A. D. 1507. James Prince of Scotland and the Isles , was born at Holy-Rood-house the one and twentyth of January but he soon after dyed at Sterling , the year following , the Queen brought forth another Son named Arthur , but he dyed also in the Castle of Edenburgh . Then she brought forth her third Son at Linlithgow , who Succeeded to the Crown and was named James . About the same time Bernard Stewart came to Scotland , intreating that King James would make War with King Henry of England , to keep him from molesting France , which at last he obtained : then began they to go to their old work of making incursions one upon another , till at last it breaks out to an open War. Whilst King James staied at Linlithgow attending the gathering of an Army , now ready to set forward , as he was at his Devotion an Ancient man came in , in a very strange and Majestick manner , and of a comly and reverent aspect , who having enquired for the King , he intruded himself Prease , passing through till he eame to him with a Clounish Simplicity , leaning over the Canons Seat where the King Sat : Sir ( said he ) I am sent hither to intreat you for this time to delay your expedition , and to proceed no farther in your intended Journey . For if you do , you shall not prosper in your Enterprize , nor any of your Followers . I am further Charged to warn you , if you be so Refractory as to go forward , not to use the Acquaintance , Company , or Councel of Women , as you tender your Honour , Life and Estate . Having delivered his Commission , he withdrew himself among the croud , but could never be seen again ; the Queen also did greatly shake his resolutions with her Tears and Prayers , acquainting him with the Visions and affrightments of her sleep , but he laughed at all these fancies , thinking them to be only the contrivance of such as hated the French and loved the English faction , so he gave present Orders to his Army to March over the Tweed , not staying till his whole Forces came to him , though they were upon their March , yet for all his hast when once he had passed the River , he trifled away his time so idly , that many of his Souldiers wanting necessarie provision returned home , which the Nobility seeing , advised the King to returne also : having spoiled that Country sufficiently already , but he would hear no such advice , though at last his Army was brought so low that he had none almost left but the Nobility and their Attendants . The English Army Commanded by the Earl of Surrey consisting of twenty eight thousand men , were come by this time within three miles of the place , where the Scotish army was incamped , which made them draw to their arms . The Earl of Surreys Vanguard , passed the water of Till at Twysel Bridge , King James seeing them pass the water imagineth that they intended to gain a hill between his Camp and them . To prevent which , he removed to another Hill ; whilst the Scotish Army was removing , the English advance to the foot of Flondon Hill. The fatal hour of the two armies approaching one another , the English draw up in good order in two Battels , one of which was equal in number to the whole Scotish army , the Scots by their fewness of number , not being able to Order many Battalions , Marshal themselves in four , three of which to enter the Fight , and the fourth to attend for supply : the King commanded the middle , or main Battel ; the Earl of Huntly , the Right wing , and the Earls of Cranford , and Montross the left ; the third Battalion was commanded by the Earl of Lennox , and the Earl of Argyle , and the reserved , by the Earl of Bothwel . The Earl of Huntly making down the Hill , where they incamped , encountred a wing of the English Van , led by Sir Edmund Howard ; which after a furious and long Fight , he put to flight , the Battalion led by the Earls of Lennox & Argyle ( being High-Land Men ) incouraged with this glance of Victory loosing their Ranks , brake furiously upon the Enemy , invading them in the Face of them ; they were not only valiantly received , but Hedged in on all hands , and miserably destroyed . The main Battel which the King led , being joyned by the Earl of Bothwel , fought it out couragiously Body against Body , and Sword to Sword ; great numbers falling upon both sides , till the darkness of the Night , as it were by mutual Consent , forced a Retreat ; neither of them knowing unto whom Victory pertained . Many brave Scots did here fall , esteemed to be above five thousand of the Noblest and worthiest Families of the Kingdom ; neither was the loss of the English less in number , but most part of them being common Soldiers , was thought little of : About the dawning of the next Morning , the Lord Dacres with his Troops , taking a view of the Field , and seeing the Brazen Ordnance of the Scots , not carried off , sendeth speedy Advertisement to the pensive Army , inviting all to the setting up of Trophies . What the Kings fate was , is uncertain , the English hold , that he was killed in this Battel ; the Scots , that many in like Arms , with the like Guards , were killed , every one of which was taken for the King : Among others , Alexander Lord Elphingston , one of his Favourites , being not unlike the King in Face and Stature , and representing him in his Armour in the Field , with the Valiantest , and most Couragious of the Army fought it out , and Acting heroically his part as a King , was killed , heaps of dead Bodies invironing his . In the search , where the fight was , the number , Tallness , and the Furniture of the dead Bodies being observed , their Faces , and Wounds viewed , His Body as if it yet breathed Majesty , was amidst the others selected , thought to be his Master , brought to Berwick and imbalmed . That it was not the Kings Body , his Iron Chain which he always wore , and was not there found about him , gave Testimony . Others have recorded , that the Fortune of the day inclining to the English ; four Tall men mounted upon lusty Horses , wearing upon the tops of their Lances for Cognizance , Streamers of Straw , mounting the King upon a Sorrel Hackney , conveyed him far from the place of fight , and after that he was seen beyond the Tweed , between Kelso and Dunce , after which , what became of him was uncertain . Many think , that he was killed in the Castle of Hume , either by Intelligence , between the English and the Humes , or in hopes of great Fortunes , which would follow Innovations , and Confusions in the State. To this is added , that one Carbreth in the time of John Duke of Albanies Government , vaunted , that however the Governour wronged the Humes , yet he was one of those who had abated the Insolency of King James , and made him know that he was a Mortal , all which , increased the Suspicion of many . The Governour not long after , cut off the Heads of the Earl of Hume and his Brother , without any known cause . This noble Prince was lost the twenty fifth year of his Reign . 106. The fatal overthrow of the King and Nobility , filled the remnant of the State with great sorrow and perplexity ; the Heads and fairest parts , which Majesty , Authority and Wisdom had made eminent , were cut off , and nothing but some turbulent Church-men , Orphan-Noblemen , and timerous Citizens , left to fill their Room . In this maze of perplexity , James the Prince is set upon the Throne , A. D. 1514. And is committed to the Tutelage of his Mother , together with the Government of the Realm . But the Government of a Woman and a Child , over a Head-strong People , could not stand long firm : A hot Contest arose among the Clergy for the Archbishop-Prick of S. Andrews ; three being put in at one time , one by the Pope , another by the Queen , and a third by the Chapter ; the State was in as bad Case ; Alexander ▪ Lord Gordon usurping almost a Royal Authority , over the Countries benorth the Ferth , as the Lord Hume also did , upon the South-side . The Queen seeing her Authority contemned , privately , Marries the Earl of Angus ; looking upon him , as one who could Protect her , and hers in Extremity ; but this Match instead of heightning , weakened her Interest ; the Nobility dividing in two Factions , the one pleading for the Earl of Douglass , and the other opposing him ( thinking him too high already ) made choice of the Earl of Arran , but a third party steps in , of whom the Lord Chamberlain was Chief , who carried the choice from both ; pitching upon John Duke of Albany : When King Henry heard , that this Gentleman was like to carry the Day , he writes to Scotland , remonstrating to them , how dangerous this choice might prove to their State : Yet notwithstanding of all that could be said , they adhered to their choice , and sent to France to call home the Duke of Albany , who furnished with all necessaries by the French King , with eight well Rigg'd Ships , takes the Seas , and in the Month of May , arrived upon the West-coasts of Scotland , from whence with a great retinue of the Nobles and Barons of the Country , by easie Journies , the Queen meeting him , he came to the Town of Edenburgh , where he is restored in Parliament , to his Fathers inheritance . At the Presence of this new Governour , the Face of the State turned more beautiful ; Oppression is restrained , Justice sincerely executed ; the Governour not willing to listen to every mans Advice , gave himself to follow the Councel of John Hepburn Prior of S. Andrews ; this man being of a subtle mind , Malicious and Crafty , represented to him things as he pleased , representing the Factiousness of the Nobility , naming several , whom he said the Kingdom could not bear . Among others , he gave out , the Lord Chamberlain to be a man unpolish'd , Stubbornly Stout , mighty in Riches , and Power , of a working Mind , and vehement Spirit ▪ that he spoke against the Chamberlain , &c. The Governour did presently lay hold on this , and changed in his affection toward him , which the Chamberlain perceiving , could not but reflect upon the Governours ingratitude ; wherefore he resolved to Face about , and striking in with the Queen and her Husband , became very intimate with them , he represented to them what hazard the Prince was in , the Governour being a man of such an unsatiable Spirit , that nothing but the Crown could set bounds to his Ambition : Advising the Queen to think of a way to prevent it ; they concluded at last , that their only safety would be , that the Queen would transport her Son to England . But as privately as the business was managed , it came to the Governours ears , who presently sent a Troop of Horse , who surprized the Castle of Sterling , and in it the Queen with her two Sons . The Prince and his Brother are sequestred from their Mother , and committed to the keeping of four Noblemen : Whereupon the Queen , her Husband , and the Chamberlain , with many others mis-trust-ing the Governour , fly to England ; their sudden departure perplexed the Court exceedingly , which moved the Governour to write to King Henry , representing to him , how little reason they had from him to depart the Kingdom ; earnestly declaring his respects to the Queen ; and that if she , and all that were with her should please to return , she should be very welcom ; they hoping that they were sincere , at last were moved to yield to his desires , but when once he had got them within the Country , he resolved to be revenged upon them ; this bred new Confusions , for some of the Lords being imprisoned , their Friends break very loose , the Country is daily pestered and impoverished , by Incursions and Inroads , till at last after great loss on both sides , they come to an Agreement , which was followed with the renewing of the Truce with England for some Months . All things being thus seemingly calmed , both at home and abroad , the forementioned Prior of S. Andrews , begins to perswade the Governour , that all his indeavours to settle the Realm , would prove vain , so long as the Earl of Hume was alive , whom neither rewards could soften , nor Honours and preferments make constant , upon this the Governour begins to contrive how to get the Earl secured ; wherefore he came to Edenburgh , and called a Convention of the states , having intreated the Earl of Humes Friends , that he would not fail to be there , the matters to be determined , concerned him dearly . The Earl of Hume with his brother David came to Edenburgh , the Night , before the Day appointed , who were received by the Governour with great Ceremonies , and with more than ordinary Favours entertained , and shortly after , both imprisoned , and a day appointed for their Tryal : The first thing laid to their Charge , was the death of the late King , whom several Witnesses proved to have been seen coming to the Castle of Hume , from Flondon ; this not being proved by pregnant Evidences , he was accused of several other points of Treason , of which he not being able to clear himself to their satisfaction ; the Judges prepared and directed by the Governour ; pronounce him and his Brother guilty , and Condemn them to have their Heads chopt off ; which Sentence was the next day put in Execution , and their Heads fixt upon the most Conspicuous places of the City . This Calamity of the Family of the Humes , bred Terrour and Astonishment in many of the Noblemen of the Kingdom , and greatly estranged their Hearts from the Governour . Ambassadors being sent from France , to renew the Ancient League between the two Countries : The Governour was chosen by the Nobility of Scotland , to pass into France for accomplishing this solemn Action . He was no sooner gone , but the Queen after she had stayed a year in England , Honourably dismissed by her Brother came to Scotland : Sir Anthony Darcy , being by the Governour made Warden of the Mers , and Lothian , was slain by Sir David Hume of Wedderburn , coming to Dunce , to hold a Justice Court : Whereupon the Earl of Arran was declared Supream Warden , of the Marches , who soundly revenged Darcies Death upon the Humes . The Kingdom now began to be sensible of the offence of the Governour ; Factions increasing daily , the Nobility and Gentry deciding their Rights by their Swords ; insomuch , that the Earl of Arran , who was Provost of Edenburgh , having been with the Prince at Dalkeith upon his return had the Gates shut upon him ; the Citizens pretending that , he intended to invade their Priviledges : Whereupon followed a Tumult in the City , which continued all Night , where a Deacon of the Crafts was killed by one of the Hamiltons , which did quite alienate the Citizens affection , from the Earl of Arran ; and made them incline to the Earl of Angus ; this made the Earls of Arran , and Angus begin to cross each other : Whereupon followed much Confusion in the Country , and much Blood-shed between the Douglasses and the Hamiltons ; at last having encountred one another with their followers , at Edenburgh they fight most desperately in the Street , till at length the Hamiltons were forced to retire , having left above fourscore of their number dead upon the Street . These broils coming to the Governours ears in France , he made all the haste he could home ; coming to Edenburgh , he set himself to amend the Enormities , committed in his absence : a Parliament is called , to which many Noblemen and Gentlemen are cited to appear and answer , but some fearing the Event appeared not : Whereupon their Estates are forfeited ; several fled into England , among which were the Humes , and the Cockburns , who were the Authors of Darcies death , others submitted and were pardoned . The King of England being informed of the Condition of Scotland , sent thither an Embassador requiring the Duke to avoid the Country , according to the Articles agreed upon , between him , and the King of France in their last Truce . To which he answered , that what the Kings of France and England agreed upon in their Treaties of Peace , was to him uncertain , but of this he was most certain that neither the King of England nor France , had Power to Banish him ( a Foraigner over them where Authority did not reach , ) his Native Country , like over like having no Jurisdiction . Whereupon King Henry gathered a great Army to Invade Scotland . Now they draw to Arms on both sides , the Governour marches with his Army to Carlile , where he pitched his Camp upon the River Esk , this struck great Terror to the Citizens of Carlile , who offered him divers presents for their safety of the Town , which were rejected , but the Nobility refusing to go upon English ground ( suspecting that the Governour only played the Game of the French ) he was forced to come to a Truce . However the Governour resolving to be revenged upon England , went to France where he obtained from the King , Three Thousand Pikes , and One Thousand Lances , with which he returned home , and having raised an Army with them he Marches to England , and Besieges Wark , but is Repulsed ; whereupon much against his will , a Truce for some Months is concluded on . Soon after , the Administration of the Government was put upon the Prince himself , the Thirteenth Year of his age ; the Governour returning to France , after which he never returned to Scotland . A Parliament is called , wherein a Peace is concluded with England , and eight Lords appointed to have the Custody of the Kings Person quarterly . Embassadors were sent to England , to treat for a Marriage between the King , and the King of Englands Daughter , which came to nothing . The State began of New to be tossed with the troublesom factions of the Queen , and the Earl of Angus ; the Queens Faction accused Angus of High Treason , for detaining the King against his will : to which the Earl moved the King to give an answer , shewing that he was not kept against his will. But with all sent another Letter secretly , desiring by any means he might be removed from the Earl ; upon this advertisment , the Queen , and they of her Faction Assemble what Forces they could raise , and with great expedition marched from Sterling to Edenburgh . The Earl of Angus , with the Citizens of Edenburgh , and the King ( though against his will ) Marched out against them , when the Leaders of the Queens Forces understood , that the King himself was in Person in the advers Army they would advance no farther , but retired back again to Sterling , where they Disbanded , and returned every man to his own dwelling place ; presently after the Queen sues for a Divorce from the Earl of Angus , which the Archbishop of S. Andrews granted with the Earls own consent . The King wearied of his confinement in the Earl of Angus his custody , consults with the Lord of Buccleugh , and some Borderers , how he might be set at Liberty ; they Essayed it by Arms at Melross , but were put to the worst , then the Earl of Lenox undertook it , and raised some Forces for that end , but the Earl of Angus having gotten the assistance of the Earl of Arran , with several others , quite routed him near Costerphin where he was killed in cold Blood. Now , the Earl of Angus thinks himself secure enough , having put all things in ( as he thought ) to rights , he takes a progress to Lothian , leaving the King at Faulkland . Now the King amidst his Solitary walks in his Park , bethinks himself what a fair oportunity he had , resolved to essay by stratagem what the Factions of his Nobles could not perform by Force , thereupon he directeth the Forester of the Park to advertise such Gentlemen about as kept Hounds , to attend him next Morning , for he would have his Sport early ; he Suppeth sooner then he used , Commanding all to their rest ; the waiters all shifted , and the Court hush'd , shutting his Camber door , in the Apparel of one of his Grooms , unperceived , he passed the Guards to the stable , where with two who attended him with ready Horses , he posted to Sterline , where many of the Nobility and Gentry flocking to him , he discharged the Earl of Angus from all Publick Offices , whereat he was so exasperated , that he and his Friends , followed very extravagant Courses , but the King pursued them so , that after much misery at home , they were constrained to fly into England , where they were Charitably received , and Honourably entertained by King Henry . The next year the King visited the Borders , holding Justice Courts , and executing Justice upon all Oppressors , Thieves , and Out-Laws there in Ewsdale ; He caused eight and twenty famous Robbers to be Hanged , others he brought with him to Edenburgh , for more publick Execution and Example ; yet the Borders were nothing the more Peaceable , for by the means of the Earl of Angus , the English make daily Incursions , and Spoiles the Country ; the Scots likewise serving the English with the same Sauce , till at last , by the Mediation of the French King , a Peace is concluded on , during the Princes Lives , and one Year after the Decease of him who should Dye first . About this time the Pope's Power began to Totter in England , King Henry having renounced all Subjection to him , because he would not Grant him a Divorce from his Queen Katharine , who had been before Married to his Brother , Prince Arthur , and then ( by a Dispensation from the Pope ) to him . The Pope finding King Henry peremptory in his purpose , did , together with the Emperor , deal with King James to make War with England , and to this end sent an Ambassador privately to Scotland : King Henry went on with his Affairs in England , and Executed John Fisher , Bishop of Rochester , for asserting the Pope's Supremacy in England : Upon this , the whole Conclave stirr'd up the Pope against King Henry , wherefore he sent another Ambassador to Scotland , most invectively Exclaiming against the King of England's Cruelty , and humbly desiring King James's assistance against him . King James ( to try his Uncle's Mind ) send an Ambassador to England , to acquaint him with the Emperors and Popes Embassage . King Henry presently dispatched William Lord Howard to Scotland , who made such hasty Journeys , that he prevented the News of his coming ; he found the King at Sterline , a part of his Ambassage was , That the two Kings must have an interview at York ; this so startled the Church-men , fearing , that his Uncle might infect the King with the Opinions of the new Reformers , that they opposed it with all their might : Yet the King and his Council proposed , that the Meeting might be at New-Castle , which the Lord Howard would , in no wise , hear of , but departed in a chafe . King James having so many great Matches in his offer , now resolves to accept of some one or other ; wherefore Sailing from Kirkaldie in ten days , he arrived at Diep in Normandy , and from thence to Vandosme , where the Lady Mary of Burbon was ; but upon some considerations he setled not his Affections upon her , though a great Beauty , but went to Paris , where he fell in Love with Magdalen , Daughter to King Francis , with her he was Married in the Church of Nostradam , with great Solemnity ; and soon after Returned with her to Scotland , but to his great Grief ; she Dyed within a few Months after , and was Buried at Holyrood-House . Not long after , the King ( desirous of Succession ) sendeth David Beaton , and the Lord Maxwel to France , to propose Marriage in his Name , to Mary of Lorrain . In the mean time , two Plots against his Life are discovered at Court , one by John , Eldest Son to the Lord Forbes , who thereupon was put to Death ; yet the King was much Grieved afterward , finding great probability , that he was accused through Malice : The other was Jane Doughlass , with her Husband Archbald Campbel of Keepneeth , who , in the thoughts of many , were as groundlesly Accused as the first , yet both were found Guilty , and Dyed for it . The King's Marriage with the foresaid Lady , being Concluded , they are Married by Proxie , and she Arrived in Scotland , A. D. 1538. Soon after the Queen Dowager Dyed at Methwen , and was Buried in the Charter-House of Perth . Now began the Kingdom to be divided in Matters of Religion , the Reformation breaking in upon them , which perplexed the King exceedingly , not knowing what course to take : His Council was against violent Courses to be followed , but the Prelates , who had most his Ear , gave him a quite contrary Advice ; after which , most vigorous Inquisitions are established , and Punishments denounced against all such as departed from Popery ; whereupon some are Burnt alive , others Banished , and many Imprisoned ; amongst which , was that famous Poet and Historian , Master George Buchanan , who whilst his Keepers Slept , escaped by a Window of the Prison , the Muses holding the Rope . The King of England , having by this time , so Irritated the Pope , that he was Excommunicated , sendeth again to his Nephew King James , desiring an Interview at York ; the Nobility were clearly for it , but the Church-men fearing their Bacon , was as much against it , pretending , the hazard that his Person and Kingdom would be lyable to . After long reasoning upon both sides , it was agreed , That the King should not altogether refuse to meet his Uncle , but adhere to the first offer proposed to his Ambassador , concerning this Interview ; which the King of England , rather than his Sute should take no effect , accepts : But an Incursion , which hapened upon the Borders , made him that he lost all heart to the Interview ; hereupon he sendeth many Letters , excusing his stay , also representing his many Grievances and Wrongs ; thus were the Seeds of Discord again sown amongst them . The reformed Religion , by this time , begins to be professed by many ; for the curbing of which , the Prelates presents Sir James Hamilton , natural Son to the Earl of Arran , to be Supream Judge of the Inquisition , which turned to his own Ruine ; for while he is vigorously Persecuting all such as were suspected of the reformed Religion , having many in Jayles , and multitudes in Scrolls , to bring within the Labyrinth of a Process , the Supream Providence Arresteth himself : For having a Process against James Hamilton , Sheriff of Lithgow , his own Couzen ; the said James Accuses him of High Treason , for which ( notwithstanding all that the Prelates could do in his Favour ) he was Tryed , Condemned , and put to Death . Not long after , divers of the Nobility became to Favor the Protestant Religion , which so perplexed the King , that he knew not what to do ; he became very sullen and retired , that he would scarce suffer his own Domesticks to come near , to add to his perplexity , ( as he lay in the Palace of Lithgow ) in the midst of the Night he leaped out of his Bed , and called for Lights , commandeth his Servants to search for Thomas Scot , his Justice Clerk , who ( he said ) stood by his Bed-side loaden with great Weights , cursing the time that ever he Served him ; for by too much Obedience to him , he was by the Justice of God condemned to everlasting Torments . Soon after , News came , That the said Thomas Scot Dyed at Edenburgh , much about the same Hour of the Night . Another Instance of the same nature was , Sir James Hamilton , a little after his Death , seemed to the King , to have appeared to him in a gastly manner , with a Sword in his hand , with which he thought he cut off both his Arms , advertising him , he would come again shortly , and be more fully revenged . The next day after the Vision , word came , that both his Sons were departed this Life almost in one hour . King Henry finding himself disappointed , by his Nephew , of their Meeting , and understanding the Church-men to have been the occasion of it , maketh Prizes of all the Scottish Ships that his Fleet could meet with by Sea , and Incursions with his garrisoned Souldiers by Land. King James directeth James Lermonth of Darsie to his Uncle , to give sufficient Reasons for his not meeting him at New-Castle , and to demand Restitution of his Ships . King Henry not only refuseth to restore the Ships , but also delaying the Answer of the Scottish Ambassador to gain time , sendeth Sir Robert B●wes , seconded with the Earl of Angus , and Sir George Douglass , in hasty manner , to invade Scotland : These to the number of Three Thousand , Burn and Destroy all before them , till at last the Earl of Huntly , with some Borderers , meeting them at a Place called Valldanrigg , quite routed them , Killed many , and took some Prisoners . The next Summer King Henry sent the Earl of Norfolk towards Scotland with an Army of Forty Thousand Men , accompanied with a great many of the English Nobility . King James advertised of their coming , Mustered an Army of Thirty Thousand Men on Falla-moor , to Oppose them . When the Duke of Norfolk understood that he was resolved to give him Battel , choosing rather to make an honourable Retreat , than give a doubtful Charge , he retireth off the Scottish ground : Whereupon King James encouraged his Nobility and Army to follow them , and revenge old Quarrels : The Nobles answered , That to defend their Prince and Country , they would hazzard their Lives , or whatever was dear to them . If the Enemy had stayed upon Scottish Ground , they would either make them retire , or Dung the Field with their Carcasses . But to Invade England , they did not think their Quarrel just enough , neither had they Ammunition enough to Engage with so strong an Enemy in his own Country ; that they thought it enough , that upon their approaching , they made the English retire , if not fly ; for whether they did fly or retire , they had suffered as much Wrong as they had done . The King finding them thus obstinate , returneth with his Army to Edenburgh , where he immediately Disbanded them ; he begins most bitterly to reflect upon the Noble mens refusing to Invade England , which was aggravated and abetted by Cardinal Beat●n , Oliver Sinclave , and others . The Lord Maxnel seeing the King so highly Offended , desired His Majesty to give him Ten Thousand men , and he would ingage his Honour , to effect something to the King's Satisfaction ; the King thanketh him for his Offer , appointeth a Rendezvous upon the West Marches : No Proclamations are divulged for the levies of Men , but close Letters sent . The Cardinal , and the Earl of Arran , March towards Haddingtoun , and the East Borders ; and several Earls , Lords , and Barons , accompanied with the King 's Domestick Servants , ride to the West Borders : The Night before they rode , the King himself came to Lochmabban to attend the Event . Sir Thomas Wharton , Warden of the Marches , much troubled at such a frequent Assembly of the Scottish Riders ; raising the Power of the Country , placeth them by a Hill , where he might take a view of the Forces . The Scottish Lords beholding the English putting themselves in a Fighting posture , desire to know the King's Lieutenant-General ; whereupon Oliver Sinclave is mounted upon crossed Pikes , and the Commission read , wherein he is designed to be Lieutenant , and all Commanded , in the King's Name , to follow him . No sooner began the Commission to be read , but such a Tumult , and confused Clamour arose in the Army , that there was no Order kept ; every thing running in Confusion . The English taking advantage of the Disorder , brake in among them ; while they stand in Amaze , doubting whether to Fly or Stand. Here is a general Surprize , most part willingly rendering themselves to the English , without any shew of Defence ; many of the Nobility and Gentry were taken and carried Prisoners to London , where they remained till after the King's Death . The certainty of this voluntary Defeat coming to the King at Lockmabban , so Stupified and Astonished him , that he had neither Council nor Resolution what to follow ; apprehending by this and their former Actions , that the Nobility had Conspired his overthrow . After which he came to Faulkland , where he gave himself over to Sorrow : Now are his Thoughts busied with Revenge , as also with rage against his Nobility . Long Watchings , continual Cares and Passions , abstinence from Food and Recreation , had so extenuated his Body , that pierced with Grief , Anguish , Impatience , Despair , he remained affixed to his Bed. To Comfort him , Letters came from Lithgow to him , That his Queen was delivered of a Daughter ; when he heard it was a Daughter , he turned his Face from them that read the Letter , and Sighing a Farewel to the World : It will end as it began ( sayes he ) the Crown came by a Woman , and it will go with one . The Cardinal put some blank Papers in his hand , of which they Composed a Letter-Will , which , whether he Subscribed or not , is uncertain : After which he spoke not many Words that could be understood ; he Dyed the Thirteenth of December , Anno Dom. 1542. in the Thirty-Third Year of his Age , and Thirty-Second of his Reign ; not without Suspition of having got an Italian Posset by the Cardinal's means . The King was no sooner Dead ( leaving his young Daughter , who was afterward called Mary , to Succeed ) then the Cardinal proclaimed his Last Will , wherein were expressed four Protectors or Regents , of whom himself was the First and Principal , and with him were joyned the Earls of Huntly , Argyle , and Murry . But within a Week after , the Chase was turned : For the Earl of Arran being advised by the Lord of Grange , who was Treasurer , and Master Henry Balneaves , with some others , caused to Assemble the Peers of the Realm , representing to them his undoubted Title to the Government of the Kingdom , during the Minority of her , to whom , by Line , he should Succeed , if she want Succession of her own body . The Cardinal opposed himself , and all his Interest against Arran , but it was carried by many Voices ; whereupon Arran was declared Governor , and with publick Proclamation invested in his Office. A Parliament soon followed , wherein the Clergy most violently pressed , That severe Edicts might be Published against those they called Hereticks : But others Propounding in Parliament , whether such , of the People , as could not speak Latine , might not have the Word of their Salvation in the Language they understood , as Lawfully as they that understood Latine , must have it in that Language ; it was Voted Affirmative , and at last , after much debating , it passed into an Act , That it was free for all Men and Women to Read the Scripture in their own vulgar Tongue ; and all Acts made to the contrary were rescinded . King Henry ( before the Parliament was ended ) sent an Ambassador to Scotland , whose Embassage was to Contract a perpetual League and Amity between the Two Kingdoms ; and that all Occasions of Wars might be taken away , a Match was proposed , by the Ambassador , between young Prince Edward , and the Queen of Scotland ; which was by the Governour and Parliament Accepted ; whereupon they sent their Ambassadors to England , where things came so far , that both Partyes declared their Agreement in all Particulars , except the time when the young Queen should be delivered to the English . The Papists foreseeing what would probably follow , if the Queen should be put in their Enemy , the King of England's hand ; begin , with all their might , to Oppose it : about this time the Governors base Brother , John Hamilton , came from France , who was very helpful to his brethren the Papists , in carrying on all their Affairs . At last , partly by few promises of great Things , and partly by Threatning to declare him an Enemy to Holy-Church , if he complied not , they make him Condescend to break with England ; whereupon ensued great and bloody Wars between the Two Kingdoms ; for King Henry immediately sent a strong Army to Scotland , who came as far as Edenburgh , committing great Hostilities . In compensation of which , the Scots enter England : Burning and Destroying all before them , returning again with great Spoil . Mr. George Wishart , being by Cardinal Beaton , burnt Alive for the Protestant Religion ; the said Cardinal was surprized by Norman Loslie Master of Rothes , William Kirkaldie of Grange , and John Loslie of Park-Hill , in his Castle of St. Andrews , and put to Death ; Possessing themselves of the Castle for their Security , knowing that now they were to have many and powerful Enemies , which accordingly fell out ; for the Papists procure an Army from France , under the conduct of Monsieur Deosel , who besieged the Castle , and soon after took it . King Henry being now Dead , his Son King Edward sent an Army of Ten Thousand Men to Scotland : The Popish Party there procures the like number from France ; these two Armies grievously infested the Country . The next Year the Queen was at Six years of Age Transported by the West Seas into France ( escaping the English Fleet , that watched for her about Calice ) and soon after Married to the Daulphine . However , the Reformation goes on , notwithstanding the Queen-Mother , who is now stiled Queen-Regent her opposition . She was Assisted in her Designs by the French ( as the Reformers were also by the English ) but her Death put a stop to the Persecution ; which gave the Protestants opportunity of putting things in order , relating to the Worship of God. Great Preparations were making in France , for invading of Scotland , and root out the Reformed Religion : This terrified the Reformers mightily ; but while they were in a Consternation , not knowing what to do , the King of France Dyed , and their Queen remained a Widdow ; this was a great Deliverance to them , for by his Death the intended Invasion came to nothing . Soon after , the Queen comes Home , and sets up Mass in her Chappel , which the Reformers opposed . This bred much confusion in the State ; but the Queen finding that the Body of the People , with most part of the Nobility were against her Way , she became a little more calm , condescending that some Maintenance might be settled upon the Ministers . About this time , the Earl of Huntly breaks out in a Rebellion in the North ; to oppose which , the Queen went her self in Person , and Routed him , near Aberdeen , his Sons , and many of his Friends being Slain , himself also Dying in the place without any Wound . The Easter following , Mass began to be very publick at Edinburgh , which so incensed the Lords and others , That they Imprisoned several Priests : The Queen began to Storm at this , but they told her , That what they did was according to Law , and they would Justify it in Parliament . In July 1564. The Earl of Lenox , with his Son Henry Stewart , Lord Darly , return from England , and were very graciously received by the Queen , who took such Affection to Darly , that she Posts away Lethington to Queen Elizabeth , shewing her , That she meant to Marry him : Queen Elizabeth ( pretending her disliking of such Contracts of Princes with Subjects ) labours to diswade her from it ; but under-hand promotes it for her own ends . The Queen ( with some difficulty ) gets her intended Marriage ratified in Parliament , which was afterward Proclaimed by name , Henry and Mary , King and Queen of Scotland , and Solemnized the Twenty-Seventh of July , 1565. This procures great Alterations in the State ; for several Lords and Gentlemen of the Reformation , being Summoned to Appear before the King and Queen ; and upon Non-appearance , were declared Rebels : Whereupon , the King and Queen presently take Armes ; the Lords , with their Intention , fled into England , where they stayed a while under Queen Elizabeth's Protection , who afterward dismissed them , writing to the King and Queen in their Favours ; at length they came to an Agreement , which yet continued not long . For the King beginning to be jealous of the daily resort of French-men to Court , and of their great Favor with the Queen , caused one of them , called Rizio , who from a Musitian , was advanced to be the Queen's Secretary for French , to be seized in her Chamber , and presently put to Death ; and finding that this Action brought him under the odium of the Papists , he made a shew of turning Protestant , calling home several of the Banished Lords and others : But however , from that day he began to be despised by the Queen , and Bothwel is advanced . The Nineteenth of June , 1566. The Queen , at Edinburg , was Delivered of a Son , to the great Joy of all the Kingdom ; he was Baptized at Sterlin , December the Seventeenth , and called James ; the Witnesses were the Earl of Bedford for Queen Elizabeth , who in her Name presented a Font of pure Gold , valued at Three Thousand Crowns ; the Count de Briance for the French King , and an Ambassador for the Duke of Savoy . The King finding himself daily slighted by the Queen , repaired to his Father at Glasgow , where , by the way , he was taken very Ill with a Pain in his Stomack ; when he came to Glasgow his Body breaks out in blewish Blisters , which when the Physitians saw , they knew him to have been Poisoned ; but with their Antidotes , and his own vigorous Youth , he Recovered . Not long after , the Queen Visited him at Glasgow , and prevailed with him to come to Edinburg ; he Lodged in the Kirk-Field for his Health ( as was pretended ) : But many suspected that the Earl of Bothwel had a Design upon him , but few durst adventure to tell him of it : Yet the Earl of Orkney told him , That if he retired not hastily out of that Place , it would cost him his Life ; this Advertisement moved the Earl of Bothwel to hasten forward his Enterprize , laying a Train of Powder under the House where the King lay , which in the Night time did Blow it up ; but it was said , That the King was taken forth , and brought ▪ Alive to a Stable , where a Napkin was stopped in his Mouth , and he therewith Suffocated . Presently after , Bothwel obtains a Divorce from the Pope , to free him of his Wife , and was Married to the Queen , May the Fifteenth , 1567. Whereupon the Lords take Armes ( the Queen and Bothwel being at Dumbar ) resolving to call him to an Account for what was past : the Queen also , and he , sent to their Friends to come to their Defence ; the two Armies Faces each other at Seaton : Then Bothwel steps out upon Horse-back , between the Armies , offering to Fight with any that durst Charge him with that foul Aspersion of Murdering the King : James Murray offers the Combat , but he is refused , as not equal in Honour ; then his Brother , the Laird of Tully-Bardine , Accepts the Challenge ; him he refuseth , because he was not a Noble-man ; then the Lord Lyndsay presents himself , telling him , That he was his Equal every way : but the Queen recalled Bothwel , and would not suffer them to Fight . In fine , the Queen finding the Confederates resolute , and their Number exceeding her own , she desires Bothwel to shift for himself , for that she would put her self in their Hands ; which accordingly she did , and was by them conveyed to Edinburgh , and after to the Castle of Lochlevine . The Queen of England sends her Ambassador to the Lords , desiring , That the Queen might have her full Liberty ; and that the Prince might be sent to England to be Educated : At length Matters were wrought to that point , that she must of necessity resign the Crown to her Son 108. This young Prince was Crowned at Sterline , the Twenty-fourth of July , Anno Dom. 1567. at thirteen Months and eight days old . The Earls of Morteun and Hume , taking the Coronation Oath for him : Master Knox also Preached the Coronation Sermon . The Earl of Murray is , within a Month after , created Regent ; he presently Summons a Parliament , wherein divers are Executed , as having Accession to the late Kings Murder ; which occasioned many Factions in the State , and much hatred to the Regent . In the mean time the Queen was conveyed out of Lochlavin , by George Douglass the Governours Brother , my Lord Seaton , and divers of the House of Hamiltone , with their dependers waited to receive her , and conveyed her to Hamiltoun : The Regent being at Glasgow , draws together what men he could so suddenly command , and with them Marches to Langsidemoor , where it was Fought most Briskly ; but the Queen , though being more in number , was worsted ; after which she lost all courage , never resting till she was in England : The Regent returned Victor , and destributed the Spoyl among his Friends and Dependants . The Queen of England sends Ambassadors to the Regent , desiring him to send Commissioners to her , to give her a reason of their thus proceeding against their Queen , upon which he himself went to Berwick for that purpose : After long reasoning , they parted without concluding any thing . The Regent returning home , did not sit long Idle ; for the Earl of Hamilton pretending a right to the Regency , conveins his friends at Glasgow , the Regent presently went against him . He finding himself disappointed of many that he expected to come to his Assistance , submitted himself , and is made prisoner , Queen Mary , being by the Queen of Englands order conveyed to Carlisle . The Duke of Norfolk in hopes to get her in Marriage , became mighty forward to procure her liberation ; which made Queen Elizabeth begin to grow jealous of him ; whereupon he is committed to the Tower , a Conspiracy being discovered , which he managed for relievving the Queen of Scots . The Regent having brought things to some order at home , the Hamiltons seeing it impossible for them now to contend with him , Killed him most Treacherously and Basely , as he was passing through Lithgow , having shot him with a Hakbut , out at a Window , January the 22 d. 1569. About three Months after Lennox , the Kings Grandfather is chosen Regent . Hamilton being by all refused , he marches with 5000 to Lithgow , to suppress the Queens Faction , they intended to call a Parliament ; there great Confusion follows over all the Kingdom . A Parliament being summoned by the Regent at Sterling , they began to reform abuses , which are very many ; but they thinking themselves secure , took no care to keep Guards : Whereupon one George Bell marches from Edenburgh , in the Night time as guid to the Earl of Huntly ; he commanded five hundred men , they surprised them all in their Beds , some escaped , and others were taken Prisoners ; but the Regent himself was killed in the Tumult . Those who were for the King , chose the Earl of Mar Regent ; about this time the Duke of Norfolk was arraigned , and found guilty of Complotting with Queen Mary against Queen Elizabeth , and within four Months after had his Head chopt off upon Tower-Hill , where he confessed all the indictment : Mar about a year after being chosen Regent , dyes at Sterline ; to succeed whom , Mortoon was without controversie Elected . The King was committed to the keeping of Alexander Arskine , and Mr. George Buchanan made his Tutor , none of the Queens Party being permitted to come near him . The Factious had by this time become very unnatural ; the Mother against the Son , and the Son against the Mother . Edenburg Castle , which Kirkaldie of Grange kept for the Queen , is besieged and taken by the Regent , and the Governour , with his Brother Hanged . The Regent proud of his Success , began to be somewhat extravagant , which was a forerunner of his downfall , which his Enemies improved to his disadvantage : Whereupon he is deposed . The King seeing that things were turning from bad to worse , took the Scepter in his own Hand , having the Assistance of twelve Noblemen , whereof M●rtoun was one : A Parliament soon after is called at Edingburgh , where the King appeared to his People , being yet but twelve years Old. In this Parliament was ratified that Confession of Faith inserted in the late Test in Scotland . Anno Dom. 1582. Fell out the Road of Ruthwen , where the King was Seized by some of his Nobles , and carried to Edinburg , upon pretence , That he was Misled by bad Councils : They kept him under a sort of Restraint for above a Year ; but at last , being at St. Andrews , he was Relieved by Collonel Stewart Captain of the Castle ; for as the King had entred the Gate , the Collonel presently shuts it , and by this means shuts out the company that attended the King : Soon after , many of them are Imprisoned , but all obtain a Pardon , except the Earl of Goury , who was Arraigned , Condemned , and Executed , Anno Dom. 1584. About which time there is a Plot discovered in England , to set the Queen of Scots at Liberty ; in which the Lord Pag●t Throgmorton and others were concerned , who accordingly suffered for it . But the Suspition of all reflected upon Queen Mary , which hastened her ruine : Whereupon she was removed from her Fifteen Years Imprisonment under the Earl of Shrewsberry , to Sir Amias Pawlet , and Sir Drew Drury in Fothrengam Castle , on purpose to put her upon extremities of Redress against their extream Imprisoning : Whereupon she deals with the Pope and Spain to hasten the means of her Relief , but it proved the hastening of her destruction . The Council of England after long deliberation what to do with Queen Mary , at last resolved to proceed against her upon Act 27. Eliz. Against Plotters or Contrivers of the Queens Death . To which purpose a Commission under the Great Seal issued out , Impowering twenty-four Noble-Men and others therein , who came to the Castle the 11th . of Octob. 1536. to Try her . The manner of her Tryal was thus . A Chair of State was set , as for the Queen of England , at the upper end of the Presence Chamber . Beneath against it was placed a Chair for the Queen of Scots ; close to the Walls on both sides of the Cloath of Estate , seats were made for the Lords ; next to these were the Knights , Privy Councellors . Forward before the Earls , sate the two Chief Justices , and on the other side , other two Justices . At a Table in the midst sate the Attorney General , the Solicitor , a Sergeant at Law , the Clerk of the Crown , and two Notaries . The Inditement being read , she declined their Jurisdiction , being a free Princess , and not a Subject to the Crown of England ; to which it was Answered , That her declinator was in vain , for whosoever offends the Laws of England in England must be subject to the same , and accordingly examined and Judged . So they proceeded to examine the Evidence , and after a long Tryal , and much spoken on both sides , she is found guilty . Not many dayes after a Parliament was called , wherein Queen Elizabeth was besought , that the Sentence against the Queen of Scots , might be put in Execution . The Queen desired that some other methods might be consulted for safely , and that poor distressed Queen spared ; but they answer , What no other satisfaction ▪ Whereupon the Sentence was Proclaimed throughout London and all the Kingdom ▪ King James hearing of his Mothers condition , writ several Letters to Queen Elizabeth , passionately desiring , that the Sentence might be reversed ; but all to no purpose : for soon after she signed a Warrant for a Mandate fitted for the Great Seal for her Execution , which was performed upon Wednesday , the 8th . of February , 1586. Queen Elizabeth immediately after Writes a Letter full of Apologies , and fair promises to King James ; yet notwithstanding in great discontent , he calls home his Ambassadours from the Court of England . The States of Scotland urge him to a revenge : The King of Spain also , and the Pope promise him great assistance , if he would undertake it ; but he thought fit to delay for a time , which made England the more suspitious of his Designs . Wherefore an Ambassadour was sent to him , earnestly desiring him to take off his adherence from Forreign Friendship , assuring him that his Mothers fate would be no prejudice to his right of Succession , which was a powerful Argument with him . The next Year , the Kings Marriage with the King of Denmarks Daughter was agreed upon . In the mean time , the Popish Lords , such as Huntly , Cranford and A●rol , make a Rebellion in the North ; to suppress which , the King himself went in Person ; at his coming , the Rebels disperse ; the Headers of them submitted to the Kings Mercy , and are commited close Prisoners , and not long after Tryed and found Guilty ; but the Sentence was delayed to an indefinite time , which at last turned to a Pardon . The King hearing that his Marriage was consumated at Denmark by Proxie , and the Queen at Sea , was soon after surprised with the News , that her Navy was beat into Norway by a Storm : He presently resolves to go thither , and meet Her , which he does very privately ; leaving the Government of the Kingdom to his Council . Within five dayes he arrives at Norway , where he was solemnly Marryed the next Sunday . From thence he went with his Queen to Visit the Queen Mother of Denmark ; where they staid till April following : Then having sent for Shipping to return , they Landed at Leith the 20 th . day of May , Anno Dom. 1590. and a little after the Queen was solemnly Crowned at Holy-Rood-House . Though the King made severe Laws against Feuds , yet were they not quite suppressed , for by reason of a quarrel between the Earles of Huntly , and Murray the North broke very loose , as did the Kers also in the South ; but they were soon suppressed , till Bothwel afterward ( being Imprisoned , for consulting with Witches to take away the Kings Life , and having escaped , made an attempt upon the Kings Lodgings , and was repulsed ; ) being suspected to have been with Murray , the Earl of Huntly procures a Warrant to take him ; and coming to Dunnibirsle , where Murray was , firing the House , Murray attempting to make his Escape was Barbarously Murdered . Bothwel having so often been disappointed of his designes , at last having got some of the Lords on his side , he came in by the Postern-gate , under disguise of attending my Lady Athole , with another of his Companions armed , to the very Bed-Chamber ; where he forced the King to grant him a Pardon , which was the next day repealed in Council , and Bothwel and his Associates forced to fly . Anno Dom. 1593. The Queen was delivered of her first Born in Sterli●g , where he was Christned in the Chappel Roval , by the Name of Henry Frederick . Two Years after , Princess Elizabeth was born at Edenburgh . The King resolving to bring the Church of Scotland to a Conformity in Government , and Ceremonies , did occasion much confusion ; for the Ministers strong opposed ; having also a great part of the Nobility on their side . The Popish Lords and others unable to stand out any longer , submitted to the Censure of the Church . The next Year a Parliament is called , wherein the King will have some of the Ministers sit as representing the Church ; being Church Affairs , as well as Affairs of State are handled there . Anno Dom. 1599. John Earl of Goury , and his Brother Alexander , attempt to kill the King at Perth ; but both of them dyed in the attempt , and had all their Lands seized for the Kings use . In commemoration of which , the 5th . of August is annually celebrated . The 26 th of February , 1600. Prince Charles was born at Domfermling , which afterward was King of Great Britain , &c. The Jesuits having no hope of Toleration in Scotland , all their Politicks having failed them , they went the old way to work . One Moubray at the Court of Spai● , undertook to kill King James , but as he was upon his way to London , he was discovered by an Italian , who accused him of his intended Murther ; whereupon they were both taken , and sent to Scotland . Moubray was committed to the Castle ; where having found a way to break the Iron Grates of the Prison window , thought to have let himself down by a Rope ; which proving too short , he fell from the precipice , and dashed out his braines upon a Rock . Queen Elizabeths health beginning to decay , by reason of her age , and the great troubles she had undergone , removes from London to Richmond , where she daily became weaker and weaker . The Lord Admiral , Lord Keeper , and Secretary Cecil came from the Council to know her pleasure concerning her Successor . She answered , My Throne is for a King , none oth●● shall Succeed me . Cecil asked her , What King ? She said , What other King , than my Kinsman the King of Scots : Then after some time not stirring , she leasurely turned her head about and dyed , the Seventyeth year of her Age , the 24th . of March. 1602. Her eyes being shut , the same day the Lords Spiritual and Temporal being Assembled , proclaimed her death , and declared King James her Successor : Presently Posting Letters to him , acquainting him with the Queens Death , and ( being a Body without a Head ) humbly desiring his Majesty to hasten to them , how soon , and in what manner he pleaseth . The King having communicated these Letters to his Privy-Council ; returns them his acknowledgment of their dutifull Affection . The King sets out for England , ordering the Queen to follow Twenty days after , the Princes Henry , Charles , and Princess Elizabeth at further Pleasure . He was most magnificently Entertained all the way , having a Gallant train of Scottish Noblemen and other Gentlemen , to convey him to Berwick , where he was most magnificently received by the English , and accompanied with Shouts and Acclamations of Joy by all ranks , in his Journey through England , till he came to London . His first Reception was in the Charter-House , where he stayed four days , having confered the Honour of Knighthood upon 80 Gentlemen . On St. Jameses's day the King and Queen were Crowned at Westminster in the Fatal Marble Chair . Secretary Elphingston was within a few years after accused by the King , for Writing Letters to the Pope in his Name ; which he confessed , and was thereupon committed , but soon after pardoned . The King was not allowed to enjoy the pleasure of his new Title with Peace , for soon after followed the Treason of the Lord Cobham and Gray , with Sir Walter Rawley , and others ; for which , some of the number being condemned to dye , and brought to the very Block , obtained a Pardon . His Majesty took upon him the Title of Great Britain , to take away every thing that might be occasion of discord amongst the Subjects of the two Kingdoms , and to that effect were sundry of his Majesties Chief Officers of Estate , sent for to England by Commission ; viz. The Earl of Mo●●rose Great Chancellour of Scotland . Francis Earl of Errol , Lord great Constable , Alexander Lord Urquhart and Fyve President . Sir Thomas Hamilton Advocate , the Lords , Lithgow and Roxburgh ; with sundry others of the Nobility , with Sir John Sharp , and Sir Thomas Craig , Learned Lawyers . These meeting with the Chancellour , Treasurer , Secretary , had many Learned Orations , Conferences , and Speeches , wherein the King assisted himself sometime in person . This great meeting was dissolved without any great business done . At this time came to England Don John de Velasco great Constable of Castile , and Extraordinary Ambassador from the King of Spain , to take Oath of the King for observation of the Articles of Peace concluded between these two Kings . Like as Baron Howard of Essingham , and Earl of Nottingham , and High Admiral of England , was sent into Spain , to take the King of Spain's Oath for observation of Peace . Like as Edward Baron of Beauchamp and Earl of Hartford , were sent into the low Countries for the same purpose . The Earl of Rutland was sent into Denmark , and sundry Noblemen and Gentlemen , to sundry Kings and Princes , and Common-wealths , his Confederates and Allyances . Thomas Percie , Robert Catesbee , Thomas Winter , by the instigation of some Jesuits , having intended to Overthrow the King , His Queen , and Posterity , at one blow , intended that most inhumane and barbarous Treason , called , The Powder-Plot ; and to that effect , associating themselves with Sir Edward Dick●ee , Ambrose Rockwood , John Grant , the two Wrights , with sundry others fell to digging of the Vault , where after long travail , hearing that the Cellers were to Let , Hyring the Cellers which were under the Parliament House , to the use of Mr. Thomas Piercie one of the Kings Gentlemen Pensioners , and one of the chief Plotters ; where conveying in the said Cellers under the Parliament-House , a great quantity of Gun-Powder , with Billets and Faggots , with sundry other combustible stuff , the principle Plotters removed themselves to Warwickshire , under pretence of a Match Hunting , and at that time to surprise Lady Elizabeth , then in the custody of the Lord Hadington , whom they meant to proclaim Queen , and in her Name to enter into Arms. But there is an eye in Heaven , that seeth mens actions , and lays them open to the view of the World , by weak means , and weak instruments : All things succeeding thus happily , as they thought ; and leaving Faukes , alias Johnstoun to give Fire to the Train in the Night time by Torch : The Lord Monteagle going along in his Coach , an unknown Fellow presents him with a Letter : The tenor whereof was to withdraw his Lordship from that session of parliament , wherein there was something to be done against the Catholicks , but there was a terrible blow to be given , and no man should know who should be the giver of it , and when the Letter was burnt , the Peril was ended . My Lord Monteagle , in Religion Popish , notwithstanding delivereth the Letter to Salisbury , who acquainting my Lord Chamberlain , and after my Lord Admiral , and the Earls of Worster , and Northampton , who not finding out the meaning of the Letter , and knowing that the KING was well seen in such hid misteries , present it to his MAJESTY in the privy Gallery : The King Reading it over , and over again , Salisbury told him that he thought some Mad Fellow had written it : his Majesty asking the reason of Salisbury : He replyed , because he writ there was a terrible blow to be given , and no man should know who should be the giver : His Majestie answered , that the last sentence made the other more clear : That the Letter being burnt , the Peril was ended , which the burning of the Letter could make to no purpose to hinder the Peril . The King assured him that is was some blowing up of powder , and therefore desired that his houses might be surveyed . After examination , Wh●ngard , keeper of the Parliament House , told that he had let the House to Mr. Thomas Perci● ; & after some pains taken that same night , by the Lord Chamberlain , the Lord Knevet , Mr. Doublede , found the foresaid Faukes with a Dark Lanthorn , ready to enter the House , but he being apprehended , the Blow was prevented ; where swift fame carrying it down to the Country , the principal Plotters knew not where to flee to hide their heads . They surprize Warwick Castle , where being affrighted with drying of Gun-Powder , and other strange Dreams , seeing Castles and Towers blown up in the Air , they were at last besieged in the Castle of Warwick where Percie and Catesbee were both Shot with one Musquet , shot back to back , the rest were apprehended and brought to London , where after the Confession of all for the most part , and penitence and contrition in some , craving pardon of his Majestie and Countrie , for such an horrible and inhumane Fact , Catesbee , Grant , Winter , and Bates were Executed at the West of Pauls ; as also , Winter , the two Wrights , and Faukes , and Ambrose Rockwood at Westminster . So here we see the God of light brought the deed of Darkness to light , and as they said by their Confession , to cast the aspersion and Guilt of the Action upon the Puritanes , so the God of Heaven would have it to fall upon the Plotters themselves . After this followed the Nuptial of that Noble Lady , Lady Elizabeth , matched with the Prince Palatine of the Rhyne . At which time that Noble Prince , Prince Henry ▪ a prince so compleat of all Vertues , that Europe could not shew his second , a Prince so Mars-like , and so beloved of all military men , and so beloved of them ; that true Moecenas of Vertue , and Learning ; as appeared by his Valiant , his Active , and his Princely prise , wherein he intituled himself by the Name , Moeliades , Lord of the Isles ; challenging the Gentrie of Great Britain ; which was performed in the Hall of Whitehall by Torch Light ; the challengers were with him , the Duke of Lennox , the Earls of Arundal , Southampton , Pembr●ke , Sir Thomas Somerset , and Sir Richard Preston ; where before the King , the Queen , the Peers of the whole Island , with the concurrence of all Forraign Ambassadors , where he gave testimony of his Activeness , Agility and Quickness , which cannot be expressed to the Life , how every thing was done in the Action , and performed , and the prises given to the defendants , where the challengers and defendants were most Royally Feasted the next day , as the prise and reward of their Vertue and Valour , given by the Noblest Lady of Britain , according to the Tennor of the challenge ; and was given by Lady Elizabeth his sister , viz. 1. Philip Earl of Montgomerie . 2. Thomas Dearsie , son to the Lord Dearsie . 3. Sir Robert Gordon of Lochinvar . This Triumph being ended to his no small Honour . Much more might be said of this great Prince , who was taken away in the prime of his Years , ( to the great grief of all his Majesties most loving subjects ) to eternal happiness : for our sun-set , ensued no night , by arising of the day star of our Britain , CHARLES our hope , who long may raign over us . His Majesty being possest with a longing desire to see his Ancient native Kingdom ; made Progress in Anno 1617. and did so much by easie journey , till he came to Berwick upon Tweed ; where he reposed himself two or three dayes . From thence he came to the Bound-Rod : The Earle Hume hereditary Sheriff of the Mers , welcomed his Majesty with a gallant train of Gentlemen , being three thousand well mounted . His Majesty alighted at the Rod , and received the Dukes of Lennox and Buckingham , the Earls of Arundale , Rutland , Pembroke , Southampton , Montgomery , and Carlile , with many others of his Court , very Royally , making them welcome ; and mounted his Horse again : He rode to Dunglasse the Earl of Hume his residence , where he was bountifully entertained . The next day he removed to Seaton , the residence of the Earl Winton , where he was most Royally entertained . The next day he rode forward towards Edinburgh , where compassing the Town , riding the way of the Long-gate , he entred the West Port , where the Provost , Bayliffs and Counsel attended him in their bounds ; where Mr. John Hay , in name of the town , made an eloquent Oration , welcoming His Majesty , and was delivered to him a fair Bason with a thousand Pieces of Gold. Riding along to the high Church , being conducted by the Trained Bands of the Town , being clad in Velvet and Satin with Partizados in their hands ; and entring there he heard a Learned Sermon , by the Right Reverend Father in God the Arch-bishop of St. Andrews ; where after Sermon , he mounted his Horse and going toward the Abby , where at St. Johns Cross , the Provost taking leave of him , his Majesty Knighted him . And within few dayes his Majesty rode to his Parliament , with his Peers , Prelats , Barons , and Burgesses , and thereafter was most sumptuously feasted by the Town of Edinburgh . It is needless to set down in particulars what was done , because I intend Brevity . His Majesty removed to Linlithgow , and so to Striviling ; where he was feasted by the Earl of Marre : Thereafter he went to Dunfermling , Faulkland , Scone , &c. Where by the way he was feasted at Dearcie the Arch-Bishops residence . It were tedious to rehearse the Learned Orations , Poetical Poems , which were presented to His Majesty and are extant in a Book , called , The Muses Welcome . His Majesty crossing Tay to Angus , had every where most Royal Entertainment ; and returning the same way to Sterling , and so to Glasgow , where he was received by the Town : Thereafter he went to Lochlowmount , where he hunted , and slew many Deer ; and crossing the River of Clyde to Pasiey , where he was Entertained three dayes together by the Earl of Abercorne : From thence to Hamilton Pallace , where he was Honourably Entertained by the Marquess : From thence to Sanquihair , and so to Dumfries : Thereafter crossing the River of Eske , he went to Carlile , where he kept his fifth Day of August . And so taking along the West Sea Bank , through the Countries of Cumber , Westmerland , Lancashire , and Cheshire , and so crossing through the middle of England , he returned to London in health , with great joy and content of His Majesties loving Subjects ; where he lived a long time after in great Tranquillity and Peace with the Christian Princes his Neighbours , ballancing the affaires of Europe , and labouring the peace and quiet of all Christendom . His Piety , Religion , Learning , Bounty and Mercy , would of it self take a Volume , but every one of these lives after him , and speaks for him , as may appear by many excellent Poems he writ , as some part of Davids Psalmes , some part of Du Bartus Divine weeks , Lepanto , his Basilicon doron , his Book of Demonology , his premonition to Christian Princes , his Book against Conradus Vorstius , &c. are all sufficient of themselves to testify of him , and need no other blazing . He went to England the 36. of his Age , and brought with him his Queen , with a Goodly and Royal Progeny , bringing with him Kingdoms , Unity , Peace and Plenty , and ending his Pilgrimage ( being full of dayes ) at his House in Theobalds the 59th . Year of his Raigne , upon the Sabbath , to the everlasting Sabbath , where he rests . He was buried at Westminster . This Illustrious Monarch having dyed in a good old Age , left the Diadem of Three Kingdoms , in Succession , to his Son Charles , the first of that Name , who was immediately Proclaimed , being on a Sunday morning , when Doctor Laud then Bishop of St. Davids , was in the Pulpit at White-Hall , and broke off his Sermon upon the first Notion of the Fathers Death . He was set upon the Throne , A. M. 5682. Anno Dom. 1624. He Married Henrietta-Maria , Daughter to the French King , Henry the Fourth ; and Sister to Lewes the Thirteenth , of the Family of the B●urbones , whom he had formerly seen , as he passed through France into Spain : Having gone to meet her at Dover , his first Complement to her , was , That he desired to be no longer Master of himself , than he was Servant to her , which he made good to the full . He called his first Parliament at Westminster , which Assembled the Fifteenth of June following , Anno Dom. 1624 , wherein the King declared his want of Money , and the great Charge he was like to be put to , upon several Accounts , both at Home and Abroad ; especially to maintain the Army which was listed for recovering the Palatinate . The Parliament having several Petitions , which were presented to King James a little before his Death , un-answered ; Petitioned his Majesty to Redress those Grievances which concerned Religion and Priviledge , without which they could come to no Conclusions for raising of Money ; whereupon the King gave them full Assurance of all their Demands ; so they immediately Granted two Subsidies from Protestants , four from Papists , and three from the Clergy . After this the Parliament did not Sit long ; for the last Subsidies not being enough to defray the King's necessary Charges , he urges the Parliament for more ; but they , instead of answering his Just Demands , fall foul upon his Servants , who managed his Revenues , especially the great Duke of Buckingham : This came to such a Height in the Houses , that they came to the Canvasing his Commings in , his great Revenues of Crown Demeans , which they would Revoke , and Resume to supply the King's Wants ; which made the King , in great Regret , resolve to give an end to their Sitting ; and accordingly the next day Dissolved them . The City of London was at this time much wasted with a long Plague , which was the occasion of removing Michaelmas Term to Redding . There was another Parliament called soon after , but they began where the former left ; present Grievances , and impeach : Buckingham . Upon May the Nineteenth , 1630. The Queen was Delivered of a Son at Saint James's , who was Christened Charles , and Preserved by Providence , to Succeed his Father , to the Royal Scepters of Three Kingdoms ; the King of France , and the Prince Elector Palatine , represented by the Duke of Lennox , and the Marquess of Hamilton were his God-Fathers ; and the Queen-Mother of France , represented by the Dutchess of Richmond his God-Mother . The King in the Year 1633. made a Journey to Scotland , attended with a splend●d Train of the Nobility of both Kingdoms ; and upon June the Eighteenth , was solemnly Crowned King at Edinburgh ; which Solemnity being over , his Majesty called a Parliament , and in which he passed an Act , for Ratification of the old Acts ; some suspecting , that the Confirmation of Episcopacy was by it intended , with all their Strength opposed it , but in vain . Not long before his Majesty went to Scotland , being desirous ( if possible ) to have it prevented , he Writ to a Lord , who had the Trust of the Crown , to bring it to England , that he might be Crowned there : But the Lord answered , That he durst not for his Life do it ; but if his Majesty would be pleased to accept of it in its proper place , he should find his People there ready to yield him the highest Honour ; but if he should put it off much longer , it might tend to his Majesties and their great Loss ; neither could they be long without some to Govern them . In the Year 1633. October the Thirteenth , the Queen brought forth her second Son , who was Baptized James , and entituled , Duke of York : Much about this time the Discontents in Scotland began to increase ; some of the Nobility siding with the Male-contents ; of which the Lord Balmirreno , the chief Secretary of State was one , who was thereupon Arraigned by his Peers , and found Guilty ; but obtained the King's Pardon . December the Twenty-Eighth , 1635. the Lady Elizabeth was Born ; and now great Differences arose about Church-matters , chiefly occasioned by Arch-Bishop Laud's zealous injoyning of Ceremonies , as placing the Communion-Table at the East end of the Church upon an Ascent , with Rails Altar-wayes , with many other things not formerly insisted on by the Church , but now obstinately opposed by many , which brought things into great confusion . His Majesty earnestly desiring an Uniformity in Religion in Scotland ( a thing attempted before by King James ) enjoyned the Scots the use of the Liturgy and Surplice , with all the English Ceremonies , and began first in his own Chappel ; Proclamation being made , That the same Order should be kept in all Churches : The Bishops were satisfied with it , but the Ministers and People was so discontented , that when the Dean of Edinburgh began to read the Common-Prayer , the Women began to grumble ; upon which , the Bishop of Edinburgh steps up into the Pulpit to command Silence ; but this did but augment their Fury to such a height , that they Assaulted him ; some with Cudgels , others with Stones , and others ( for want of better Weapons ) were forced to pelt him with the Stools upon which they sat , to the great hazard of his Life : The Arch-Bishop of of St. Andrews ( being then Lord Chancellor ) interposing , was like to have been served with the same sawce : The like Disturbance happened in several other places ; whereupon the Council emitted Proclamations to prevent Tumults ; which was so little regarded by the multitude , that the Bishop of Galloway , going the next day to the Council , was by them pursued to the Council Chamber . They Seized also the City Magistrates , that they might not joyn with the Council to curb them . The Lords of the Council having at length , with fair words , in some measure , pacified them , they presently emit Proclamations to keep the Peace , but produced no such Effect ; for they stifly petitioned against the service-book ; which incensed the King extreamly : Thus matters went in the Year 1637. The next Year the Scots hearing , That the King was making preparations in England , to reduce them by force , they entred into a Covenant , to defend the Religion they profest ; whereupon , they sent for General Lesly , and other Officers from beyond Sea , putting themselves in a posture of Defence : But the Duke of Hamilton obtained a Declaration from the King , discharging the use of the service-book , & the five Articles of Perth for a time ; consenting also , that Church-matters may be ordered by general Assemblies . This Declaration ▪ being published , and a general Assembly convened at Glasgow ; the Bishops are summoned to appear there as Guilty persons ; but in answer to the Summons , the Bishops sent in a Protestation against their Assembly ; which the Covenanters , for a while , would not vouchsafe to Read , until they had dispatched what business they pleased : The King , having notice of their Proceedings against the Bishops , ordered their Assembly to be dissolved , which accordingly was done ; but the Covenanters presently emit a Protestation against it . In this Assembly they quite abolished Episcopacy : Whereupon , the King raises an Army in England , with which he marched in Person against the Scots ; but while his Majesty stayed at York , by the mediation of some persons , a Treaty of Peace was agreed upon ; wherein it was agreed , That the King should publish a Declaration , ratifying , what his Commissioners had promised in his name : That a general Assembly , and a Parliament be held at Edinburgh within a short time : And lastly , That upon disbanding their Forces , and restoring the King to his Forts and Castles ; the King was to recall his Fleet and Forces , and make Restitution of their Goods since the Breach . The King not finding the Scots punctual to their Articles , returned to England , and Nullified the agreement resolving now to try other courses : Whereupon , the Scots apprehending their danger , prepared for their own defence . The King resolves upon a War ; and with some difficulty compleateth his Army , whereof himself was Generalissimo . He began his march to the North , July the Twentieth , 1640. by which time the Scottish Army was upon the Border : Wherefore the King sent the Lord Conway with Twelve Hundred Horse , and Three Thousand Foot , to secure the Passes upon the River Tyne . General Lesly being advanced thither , desired Leave to pass to the King with their Grievances , which was denied ; whereupon he commands his Horse to take the Water ( the Foot to their no small hazard following ) and force their Passage ; which they did , and put the Lord Conway to a disorderly Retreat . Soon after , they took New-Castle , and then Durham . At last , His Majesty condescends to Treat with them , and to that end , receives a Petition from them , containing their Grievances ; for redressing of which , it was agreed , That sixteen English Lords should meet with as many Scots . Rippon was a place appointed for the Treaty ; here they appointed another Treaty to be held at London for composing all differences . Much about this time Montross fell off from the Covenanters , having by several private Letters tendered his service to the King , which came all to be discovered by the means of some that were about His Majesty . However , the Treaty went on at London , and at last was concluded : Whereupon the Scots , after five months abode in England , returned home . By this time a Parliament was called at Westminster ; wherein the breach was so far from being healed , that it was made wider . Divers of the Kings Favourites were impeached ; amongst which , Arch-Bishop Laud was one , and soon after him the Earl of Strafford . This Year 1641. His Majesty went towards Scotland , where he was entertained with great Demonstrations of Affection ; and confirmed the Treaty between the two Nations , by an Act of Parliament , which he summoned himself during his abode there . In the mean time , the horrid Rebellion in Ireland broke out ; wherein those cruel Butchers , did most barbarously murther about 200000. Protestants , Men , Women and Children . The King being then in Scotland , moved the Parliament to send thither Sir George Monroe with 2500. men to reduce the Rebels . The King being returned from Scotland , ( the Parliament then sitting at Westminster ) the breach daily grew wider ; wherefore the Scotish Commissioners interposed between the King and Parliament , for composing their differences , which were now grown to such a height , that the King not long after left London , and returned to York . Now began the Calamity of a sad War ; for which they began Vigorously to make preparations on both sides . The Scots finding ( as they pretended ) that the King was refractory to an Agreement with his Parliament ; and giving ear to those vile Libels that were spread abroad , which accused His Majesty of conniving at the Papists both in England and Ireland ( being called by the Parliament to their assistance ) entred England , Jan. 16. 1643. their Army being in number 18000. Foot , and 2000. Horse . In the mean time matters are fitting in Scotland , by James Earl ( afterward Marquess ) of Montross ; who having received the Kings Commission by Sir Robert Spotswood , to be General Governour of Scotland , passed into the heart of the Kingdom ; where he raised what men he could for the Kings Service , resolving with them to divert the Covenanters . They upon the other side raised an Army to oppose him . Their first Rencounter was near Perth ; where the Covenanters under the Command of the Lords Elcho , Tullibardine , and Drumond were quite routed ; here the Atholmen and Irishmen , of which he had 1500. did him good service . From thence he marcht Northward , to Aberdeen ; where at the Bridge of Dee , he defeated another Body of the Covenanters , under the Lord Burleighs command . After this Victory , he went about most of the Northern Countries , and brought a great many of them under Subjection , though himself and his Army were reduced to great straits by reason of the coldness of the weather , and scarceness of Victuals , yet he would not give over his enterprise . From thence he marched into Argileshire , where he burnt & destroyed all before him , and returned back again to Lochabor . He stayed not long there ; when hearing that Argile was coming against him , and was already the length of Innerlochy , He resolves ( finding his men bent for 't ) to fight him , which accordingly he did , and quite worsted him . Not long after , he had an absolute Victory over General Major Hurry at a place in the Highlands , called Aldearn , which did very much weaken the Covenanters . And Baily resolving revenge , at Alford was served with the same sauce himself . The next Victory that this Valiant Champion obtained , was at Kilsyth ; a fatal day it was to the Covenanters : for here they lost a great many Gentlemen of Quality , besides a vast number of common Souldiers : yea , such of their Leaders as escaped this bout , finding ( as they thought ) their strength quite gone , fled some to England , others to Ireland , and some also came in , and Submitted to Montross upon Mercy . Thus things being , in humane probability , brought to great order , Montross receives Orders from the King at Oxford , to march Southward with his Army : Where His Majesty promised to send him some recruit of Horse to fight Sir David Lesly , who was coming from England against Montross : But L●sly preventing the Kings recruits , surprises Montross at Philiphaugh , where he quite routed him . Thus the wheele of Fortune turnes now upon this gallant Nobleman , who was Conqueror hitherto , and forces him with a very few followers to shift for himself , leaving many of his Friends dead in this fatal place . Montross by this loss , being brought very low , he marched toward the North with the few men he had ; and after many endeavours to make up his Army again , he is surprised by a Message from His Majesty , Commanding him to lay down his Armes , and go into France , where he should stay till further Orders ; which accordingly he did , though with great reluctancy , in the Year 1646. But to return to the Scots Army in England : They after they had served the Parliament upon several occasions , and particularly at Marston-Moor , where they helpt them to obtain a Victory against Prince Rupert , retired to New-Castle . The King being brought so low , that he was hardly able to keep any thing of an Army in the Field , came thither in disguise , acquainting the Scotish-General , That he would now commit himself to him ; looking upon him as a man of Honour , that would do nothing but what is Just and Loyal , in a matter of such weight ; The General answered His Majesty , He would with all his heart serve him , and that the most effectual service that he thought he could do him , was to mediate a Peace between His Majesty and His Parliament . The Parliament being Advertised , that the King was in the Scotish Army ; sent their Messengers thither , to know upon what account they detained the King of England in their Camp ; who were only called in to assist the Parliament , but not to Act by themselves : Telling them further ; That if the King were in Scotland , as he was then in England ; they would not presume to keep him up from his Subjects there , as the Scots did in England ; the Committee of the Army answered , That they knew very well the People of Englands Right to the King to be as good as theirs ; neither did they detain His Majesty from them , but that he was with them as their King ; in no wise under restraint , but at full Liberty as became his Majesty to be . And further , that it was their earnest desires to see a well-setled Peace between His Majesty and his two Houses . Presently after , they had another message , desiring them to return home ; for that the Parliament had no further service for them ; thanking them withal for the Service they had done . The Committee replyed , that they came not to England without the Parliaments call , and that the Terms upon which they were invited thither , were not fulfilled by the Parliament , their Army wanting almost 500000 l. of their Arrears : That upon payment of it , they would go home . At last it was agreed , that the Scots should have 200000 pound of their Arrears in hand , and the rest should afterward be sent after them . So that within — weeks after , they would draw the Army out of England . As for the Kings Person , it was agreed , That he should be kept by the English in Honour and Splendor suitable to his Royal Dignity , and that nothing should be transacted in England concerning His Majesty , without the Advice and Consent of the Scots . Thus were they befooled by perfidious men , which brought a great reproach upon Them and their Posterity . Though it be false that they Sold him , yet it is a sad truth , that His Majesty told them , that the English would no longer stand to their Agreement , than they thought it for their Interest . His Majesty being now in the English's hands , they at first carried themselves somewhat respectfully to him ; but they began soon after to appear like themselves ; having purged the House of Commons of all such as they thought would oppose them , they began to keep His Majesty almost a close prisoner in the Isle of Wight . The Scots hearing how the King was thus ( contrary to the promise and engagement ) abused by the English , sent their Commissioners to London , to put the Parliament in mind of the agreement at New-Castle ; but before they came , the Game was altered ( the Parliament being purged by the Army ) the barbarous Juncto prove unexorable ; wherefore the Commissioners return home , and acquainted the Nobility how matters stood : Whereupon an Army is presently listed under the Duke of Hamilton , with which he marches to England , but is unfortunately overthrown at Preston ; most of the Souldiers being killed , and himself taken prisoner , and brought up to London ; where , not long after , he , together with the Earl of Holland , and Lord Capel , were Executed on Tower-hill . Within a few days , his Majesty is brought from the Isle of Wight to Windsor ; during his abode there , the Officers of the Army , and the Members they left in the House , proceeded to that height of Insolence , as to bring the King to a Tryal . Which , when it was Voted , and passed in the pretended House of Commons , they proceeded to make an Act for the Tryal of his Sacred Majesty ; which they intituled , An Act of the Commons of England , assembled in Parliament , for Erecting of an High Court of Justice , for Trying and Judging Charles Stewart King of England . This Terrible form of proceeding against his Majesty , struck great terrour to the hearts of all sober and good men ; yea , the Presbyterian Ministers , who before were against him , now declare themselves both in their Pulpits , and by earnest Petitions to the Parliament , to be zealous abhorrers of the Kings Death , and every where make publick Protestations against the Tryal ; yet nevertheless the Juncto goes on : And upon Fryday January the 19 th . 1648. his Majesty was brought by a strong Guard of Horse from Windsor to St. James's , and from thence to Westminster , where he was Tryed , and found Guilty , contrary to the Laws of God and Man : And upon January the 30 th . about two a Clock in the Afternoon , he submitted his Royal Neck to the Fatal stroak , upon a Scaffold Erected between White-Hall Gate , and the Gate leading to the Gallery to St. Jameses : The 24 th year of his Reign he was Interr'd , in St. Georges Chappel at Windsor . His sacred Majesty that now Reigns , being at this time in France , with the Queen Mother , is by Unanimous consent of all his Subjects in Scotland , proclaimed at Edenburg , Charles the Second , by the Grace of God , King of Scotland , England , France , and Ireland , &c. and presently after , they sent their Commissioners to treat with His Majesty , who was then in the Isle of Jerzey : After much debating on both sides , at last , Breda in Holland is agreed upon , as a fit place for a solemn Treaty . Here the Commissioners from the Church and State , met the King , and delivered the Propositions . During the Treaty , the above-mentioned Marquess of Montross was seized in Scotland , and Executed , which troubled his Majesty so much , that it went nigh to break the Treaty ; but at length , through the urgency of Affairs , it was concluded . And being brought to Edenburgh , it was agreed , that another Message should be sent to invite the King over , to take Possession of the Crown , which was his own by an unquestionable Title ; but the English Parliament replyed , If they could hinder it , it should not be so . Wherefore they prepare an Army to invade Scotland , under the command of their General Oliver Cromwell . However , the Scots no wise daunted at the Storms threatned from England , resolved to adhere to his Majesty , ( though upon their own terms ) . The King arriving at the mouth of Spey , in the North , several Lords were sent to accompany him to Edenburgh ; but in the mean time , Cromwell was advanced as far as Haddington against him . Sir David L●sly , sent Sir John Brown with a Party of Horse , which continued skirmishing for some while , but produced no great Effect : The next Rencounter was at Dumbar , where the Scots had a Bloody Overthrow from Cromwel ; which did exceedingly strengthen his Interest in Scotland . The first work that the Scots went about after this disaster , was the Coronation of the King , which was done at Scone ; with as great Solemnity , as the state of Affairs could allow : The Ceremony being over , His Majesty removed to Sterling , resolving to debate his right to Cromwell , where people of all ranks flocked to him ; insomuch , as in a short time , he had an Army of 22000 Men ; but they dividing amongst themselves , gave Cromwel opportunity to pass over ; & forthwith defeating a part of the Kings Army at Innerkething , possest himself of the whole Country : His Majesty seeing ( after the defeat ) that Cromwel was like to Conquer all Scotland , makes choyce of his most faithful Friends , to venture with him into England ; where he might with more safety and advantage hazard three Kingdoms , than in a Field ; wherefore with 16000 men he privately marched to England , by the way of Carlyle ; and without any considerable opposition , came to Lancashire ; where at Warrington Bridge , some considerable Forces of the Parliament were ready to cut down the Bridg , but the Scots were with them so suddenly , that they prevented the breaking down of the Bridg , & forced their way over the Planks . Hence his Majesty marched to Worcester in very good order . Cromwel hearing of his motions , sends Lamb●rt with a select Party of Horse ; after him the Parliament also raised numerous Forces in most Countryes in England ; all which marched to Worcester against the King. In the mean time Lambert gained a most Advantagious Pass at Hop●on , by a desperate attempt , having caused some of his Troopers to swim the River on Horseback , carrying their Houlsters and Pistols in their hands , to save them from wet ; whereby they put Major General Massey , and his men , to the retreat : So that the Parliamentarians had a fair opportunity to make a Bridge over the River , over which Cromwel passed , and joyned the rest of the Army ; which put the King upon a necessity of Fighting , ( the City being attacked on all sides ) : Whereupon his Majesty marched out of the City with horse and foot against them . Where followed a most desperate engagement ; insomuch that his Majesties Horse was twice shot under him ; every man resolving to dye in the Bed of Honour , rather than to have their Prince and Country thus trod upon by the base Usurpers : But the Enemy still advancing with fresh supplies where there was need of them , so over powered the Kings Forces , that they were forced at last to give ground , after twice Rallying , to retreat to the City . His Majesty seeing that all was lost , was forced to Retreat to the City by the same Gate he came out at , having left the Duke of Hamilton , Sir John Douglass , Sir Alexander Forbes , with many other Valiant Gentlemen behind him . His Majesty was exceedingly troubled for the loss of Duke Hamilton ; for that he did see him behave himself so Valiantly , and Fighting so desperately , even when he was incompassed with the Enemies Horse and Foot. It being impossible for His Majesty to keep the City long , the whole Nation almost being in Armes against him , he resolves to retire : Accordingly , with some few Attendants , he marched out at twelve a Clock at Night ; and thinking their Number might discover them , ordered every Man to shift for himself : Only with three or four in his Company , he came to a place called Boscobel , where he disrobed himself ; and for want of Scissers , had his Hair cut off with a Knife ; and so with the company of one Careless ( who brought him Provision ) he betook himself to a Wood , where he lodged in that Famous Royal-Oak : The Soldiers hunting about for him , and a Thousand Pounds promised to any that would take Him , either Dead or Alive . Soon after , His Majesty rode from Bently to Bristol before Mistress Lane ( she having a Pass for her self and her Servants ) whence He returned , and absconded a while in Sommersetshire , Wiltshire , and Hampshire ; and at last came to Briggemstone in Sussex , where He took Shipping , about the end of October , 1651. and was Safely wafted over to a Creek in Normandie , whence he went to Diep , and there provided himself of such Necessaries as served him until He came to his Mother , who was at the French Court. Cromwel hearing of Iretons Success in Ireland , and of Lieutenant General Monks Success in Scotland , makes a Motion , That for the Security of the Common-Wealth ( as it was then called ) the Parliament should be turned out , as a parcel of Drunkards , Whore-Masters , and Oppressors ; which was accordingly done , and then a new Convention is called , July , 1653. where the Government is put upon Oliver's Shoulders , by an Instrument delivered to him , by their Speaker Mr. Rouse . In this Year and the next , were Five Bloody Engagements at Sea , between the English and the Dutch ; the English for the most part having the Victory . In the Year 1656. Cromwel calls another Parliament , which he had so far secured for his Interest , that they invite him to take the Imperial Crown of this Realm ; which he , as a cunning Fox ( knowing that this step of his Advancement would hasten his Ruine ) with pretented modesty declined , contenting himself with being Lord-Protector , which he was made three Years before . Then they Petitioned him to accept of Three-Hundred Thousand Pounds a Year for his Support ; to have a New House of Lords ; to name his own Successor : All which ( with much ado ) he accepted of . But when Fortune had set him so High , that all the World that heard of it were Astonished : Behold , in the midst of his Triumph he is snatched away by Death , upon September the Third , 1658. He lay in State , at White-Hall , about six Weeks , and then was , in great Splendor , Interred in Westminster Abby , among the Princes of the Royal Blood : His Son Richard was presently Installed in his Place , wherein he had hardly time to look about , when Fleetwood and Lambert , with the rest of the Army thrust him out , calling the Long-Parliament again ; this Revolution was followed by another ; for soon after , several Gentlemen in Cheshire , under the conduct of Sir George Booth , rose for the Defence of their Priviledges , but were defeated by Lambert ; he immediately after turned out the Long-Parliament , and erected a Committee of Safety . His Majesties Friends looked on with some Hope all this while , seeing all these Metamorphosing of Government , might tend to the opening a Door for His Majesties entring General Monk hearing in Scotland , how matters went in England , drew his Army towards the Borders : Against him Lambert marched as far as New-Castle , resolving to Fight him ; but his men had no heart to the Work , which forced him to give way . In the mean time the remainder of the Long-Parliament , had again Convened with some difficulty , and Dissolved the Committee of Safety ; inviting General Monk to march with his Army to London , which he accordingly did ; and to requite their kindness , gets them Dissolved . In the Year 1660. Another Parliament was called at Westminster , where , by unanimous Consent , His Majesty was invited Home ; and accordingly , the Twenty-ninth of May following , His Majesty accompanied with the Dukes of York and Glocester , and attended with a Gallant Train of Lords and Gentlemen , Arrived at Dover , whence He was conducted through London , in great State to White-Hall ; where , by a Lineal Legal Succession , He possesses the Imperial Crown of Scotland , for almost Two Thousand Years : So that , for Royal Extraction , and Long Line of Just Descent , His Majesty may Reckon with any Monarch in the Christian World. AN APPENDIX To the Present STATE of SCOTLAND , SECT . I. Of its Climate , Dimension , Division , Air , Soil , Commodities . SCotland is one of the Two Kingdomes that divides the great Island of Brittain , being bounded on the East by the German Ocean , on the North , by the Dewcalledon Sea ; on the West , by the Irish Sea : And divides it self from England , by the Rivers Tweed and Solway , and the Cheviot Hills . Clim . Edinburgh is Scituated between the Degrees of Latitude 56 d. 2 minutes , of Longitude 3 d. 0 min. from London West . Longest Day , 17 hours 27 min. Aberdeen 57 d. 10. min. of Latitude ; 2. d. 20. min. Longitude ; the most Northernly parts of Scotland , is Dunsby-head , whose Latitude is 58 d. 5 min. Dimensions . It s Length is about 480. Miles ; its breadth is very disproportionable , there being no place in it that is above 70. Miles distant from the Sea. Division . The Country is divided according to its Inhabitants ; into Highland and Low-land . The Highlanders live in the North and West Parts , or in some out Islands ; being a bold and hardy People , much given to Warlike Exercises ; being alwayes in readiness , when ever Commanded by their Cheif : Their Weapons were commonly Bows and Arrows , but not so much used now as formerly ; they are a People that can endure as much hardships of War , as any People in the World. The Lowlanders bordering upon the East and South , are as civil , as any other People ; their Language much like the English , differing only in the Accent . Air. The Air is very wholsome ; the cold in Winter towards the North is very sharp ; but there being great plenty of Firing , the Inhabitants do not suffer by it . The heat is less scorching in Summer , than in some other parts of the Continent . The Soil is pleasant and healthful , abounding with Springs and Rivers ; towards the North it is Mountainous , yet not wanting fruitful Valleys apt to bear any Grain . Commodities . The Country every where affordeth plenty of Sheep , Oxen , Coneys and fallow Deer ; as also abundance of Geese , Ducks , Hens , Turkies , Pigeons , Partridges , Sea-Plover , Herons , Quailes and Larks , &c. with great plenty of Fish , such as Salmonds , Pikes , Carps and Trouts ; also Herrings , Oysters , Cockles , Mussels , Turpots and Lobsters . Fruits . As Apples , Pears , Plums , Cherries , Peaches and Apricocks . Corn , Barly , Rie , Beans , Pease and Oats . Also it produceth a great quantity of Tin , Lead , Copper , Allom , Salt , Hops ; with several Silver-Mines . It is accounted Richer under ground , than above , by reason of their Mines , which when tryed , yeild much in their quantities of Ore. SECT . II. Of the Laws of Scotland . THey are made of the Municipal and Civil Laws ; the Municipal consists either of Acts of Parliament , or of the Customes and Practices of the Colledge of Justice ; and when neither of these contradict , the Civil Law is of force . All the Rights and Evidences of the Subject , are committed to Registers ; by which means men are sure not to be cheated in buying , or conveying Estates . For first , no man can have a right to an Estate but by his being seised of it , which is done by delivering Earth and Stone ; upon which an Instrument is made , called a Seising , and this within sixty dayes after must be Registred , else it is of no force ; by which means all secret Conveyances are cut off . Next , all Bonds have a Clause in them for inserting them in the publick Registers ; and they being Registred without any further Action upon a charge of six dayes , the Debtor must make payment . A Third Instance is , that any Creditor may serve a Writ on his Debtor , called Letters of Inhibitione , by which he can make no disposition of his Goods or Estate , till the Party be satisfied ; if these Letters be returned Registred , within twenty-one days after they are served , otherwise they have no force . Many such Instances may be produced , by which it appears how securely the Subject may enjoy that he hath , or may purchase . SECT . III. Of the Cheif Officers of State , of the Parliament , of the Privy Council , of the Colledge of Justice , of the Justice Court , and of the Exchequer . THe King administers the Government of the Kingdom by his Officers of State , who are Eight in number : The first is the Lord Chancellour , who is Keeper of the Great Seal , and President of all Courts , except the Exchequer . This Office is in the Person of John Earl of Perth . The second is the Lord Treasurer , who manages the Revenue , and presides in the Exchequer , who is at present the Marquess of Queensbury . The third is the Lord Privy Seal ; which Office the Marquess of Athole enjoyes . The fourth is the Lord Secretary , who is at present Alexander Earl of Murray . The fifth Officer is the Lord Clerk of the Registers , who has the charge of all the publick Records ; this Office is executed by Sir George Mikenzie , of Tarbet . The sixth is the Kings Advocate ; he is commonly a Judge , except in cases where the King is concerned ; and then he pleads for the King : The present Lord Advocate is , Sir George Mikenzie of Rosehaugh : The seventh Office is , the Lord Treasurer Deputy ; which Office was Executed by Sir Charles Maitland , of Hattoun , now Earl of Lauderdale . The eighth is the Lord Justice Clerk , who assists the Lord Justice General in criminal Causes . The present Justice Clerk is , Richard Maitland , Esquire . Par. The Parliament is made up of three Estates : The first is Ecclesiastical , consisting of Arch-Bishops , and Bishops : The second Estate is , The Nobility and Barons : The third is , The Burroughs . Upon the first day of each Parliament , there are such solemnities , and magnificent Shews , as is not observed in any Kingdom upon such occasions . For all the members of Parliament according to their degree , Riding ( as it were ) in Procession from the Kings Palace to the Parliament House . The Commissioner Riding last : The Crown , the Sword , and the Scepter , with the rest of the Honours being carryed before him ; they return in the same order back again to the Palace . Sometimes the King makes use of a Convention of Estates , which can make no Laws ; only by this meeting impositions are laid upon the Subjects . The Parliament being the supream Court , it is not impertinent to give a List of the Nobility with their Precedency and Surnames , which is as follows . Dukes . His Royal Highness the Duke of Albany .     Surnames . The Dukes of Hamilton Hamilton . Buccleauch Scot. Lenox Lenox .   Marquesses Surnames . The Marquess of Huntley Gordone . Douglas Douglas . Montross Graham . Athol Murray . Queensbury Douglass .   Earls Surnames The Earls of Crawford Lindsey . Errol Hay . Marishall Keith . Southerland Southerland Marr Ereskine Airth Grahame . Morton Douglass . Buchan Ereskine . Glencairn Cunninghame . Eglinton Montgomery . Casstles Kennedy . Murray Stewart . Caithness Sinclare . Nithifdale Maxwell . Wintoune Seatoune . Linlithgow Livingstone . Hume Hume . Pearth Drummond . Dumfermling Seatoune . Wigtoun Fleming . Strathmore Lyon. Abercorn Hamilton . Roxborough Ker. Kelly Ereiskine . Haddingtoun Hamilton . Galloway Stewart . Seaforth Mac. Kenzy . Lowthian Ker. Kinnoule Hay . Loudon Campbell . Dumfriess Creighton . Sterling Alexander . Elgine Bruce . Southesk Carnaigy . Traquair Stewart . Ancram Ker. Weimes Weimes . Dalhousy Ramsey . Airly Ogilvy . Callender Levingstone . Carnwath Dalziel . Finlator Ogilvy . Levin Lesley . Annandale Johnstone . Dysert Murray . Panmuire Mauld . Tweddale Hay . Northesk Carnaigy . Kinkardin Bruce . Forfar Douglass . Balcarres Lindsay . Middleton Middleton . Aboyne Gordone . Tarras Scot. Newburgh Levingstone . Kilmarnock Boyd . Dundonald Cochraine . Dumbarton Douglass . Kintore Keith . Broad Albyne Campbell . Aberdeen Gordone .   Viscounts Surnames . The Viscounts of Faulkland Carey . Dumbarr Constable . Stormont Murray . Kenmure Gordone . Arbuthnet Arbuthnet . Frendaret Creightone . Kingstone Seatoune . Oxenford Macgill . Kilsyth Levingstone . Irwing Campbell . Dumbiane Osborne . Preston Grahame . Newhaven Sheene .   Lords Surnames The Lords of Forbes Forbes Saltone Frazier Gray Gray . Ochiltry Stewart Cathcart Cathcart . Sinclare Sinclare . Mordington Douglass . Semple Semple . Elphingstone Elphingstone . Oliphant Oliphant . Lovat Frazier . Borthwick Borthwick . Rosse Rosse . Torphighen Sandilands . Spyne Lindsey . Lindoris Lesley . Balmerinoch Elphingstone . Blantyre Stewart . Cardrosse Ereskine . Burghly Balfour . Maderty Drummond . Cranstone Cranstone . Melvil Melvil . Neaper Neaper . Cameron Fairfax . Cramond Richardson . Rae Macky . Forrester Bailzy . Petsl●go — Kirkudbright Mac-cleland . Frazier Frazier . Bargany Hamilton . Bamf Ogilvy . Elibank Murray . Dunkeld Galloway . Halcarton Falconer . Belhaven Hamilton . Abercromby Sandilands . Carmichael Carmichael Rollo Rollo . Colvil Colvil . Duffus Southerland . Ruthven Ruthven . Mack-Donald Mack-donald . Rutherford Rutherford . Balanden Balanden . Newark Lesly . Burntisland Weimes . Strathard Nairne . His Majesties Privy Council is chiefly imployed about Publick Affairs ; the Power of it hath been mostly raised since King James came to the Crown of England ; by reason of which , being necessitated to be absent from Scotland himself , he lodged much of his power in the Lords of His Privy Council ; we cannot ( by reason of the late alterations ) give an exact List of the present Lords of the Council : Wherefore we shall forbear . The Supream Court of Judicature , about the property of the Subject , is called the Colledge of Justice . It consists of fourteen Judges , who are called Senators of the Colledge of Justice , and a President . This Court sits from the first of November , till the last of March. The Justice Court being the next Supream Court , where Criminals are tryed , consists of a Lord Justice General , and a Lord Justice Clerk who is his Assistant . All Tryals for Life , are in this Court ; where every Subject , as well Peers as Commoners are tryed ; Peers by a Jury or Assize of Peers ; and Commoners , by a Jury of Commoners . The next Supream Court is the Exchequer , which consists of , the Lord Treasurer , the Lord Treasurers Deputy , and some Assistants called the Lords of the Exchequer : Here all the Kings Grants , Pensions , Gifts of Wards , and such like are passed . SECT . IV. Of Sheriff-Courts ; also an account of the Shires of Scotland , with their Sheriffs who are ( most of them so ) by Inheritance . THere are beside the Supream Courts of the Nation , other inferior Courts ; the most considerable of which , is the Sheriffs Courts , where Thefts , and all lesser Crimes are Judged ; as also Murthers , if the Murtherer be taken in hot blood . The Sheriffs in this Nation are ( most of them ) so by Inheritance ; wherefore it may not be impertinent here to give a List of the Shires of Scotland , with their Sheriffs . Shires of Scotland , with their bounds and Sheriffs . Shires Sheriffs The Shire of Edinburgh containeth Middle Lothian . The Earl of Lau●erdale . The shire of Berwick containeth Mers . Earl of Home . The shire of Peeblis containeth Tweddail . Earl of Tweddail . The shire of Shelkirk containeth the Forrest of Etterick . — Murray . The shire of Roxburgh containeth Tiviotdale , Lidisdale , Eshdail , Eusdail . Duke of Buckleugh . The shire of Dumfreis containeth Nithisdail , and Anandail . Marquess of Queensbury . The shire of Wigton containeth the West parts of Galloway . Sir Patrick Agnew of Lochnaw . The shire of Aire containeth Kyle , Carrict , and Cunninghame . Earl of Dumfreis . The shire of Renfrew containeth the Barony of Renfrew . Earl of Eglington . The shire of Lanerick containeth Clidsdail . Duke Hamilton . The shire of Dumbritton containeth Lenox . Duke of Lenox . The shire of Bute containeth the Isles of Bute and Arran . Sir James Stewart of Bute . The shire of Innerara containeth Argile , Lorn , Kintyre , with the most part of the West Isles . — The shire of Pearth containeth Athol , Goury , Glenshee , Strath-Ardell , Broad-Albine , Ramach , Balhider , Glenurqhuay , Stormont , Menteith , and Strath-Yern . Marquess of Atholl . The shire of Striveling lyeth on both sides the River Forth . Earl of Marr. The shire of Linlighgow , West Lothian . — Hope of Hoptoun . The shire of Clackmanan containeth a part of Fife , lying upon the River Forth , towards Striveling . Bruce of Clackmanan . The shire of Kinross containeth so much of Fife , as lyeth between Lochleiven , and the Ochell Hills . Earl of Morton . The shire of Couper containeth the rest of Fife . Earl of Rothes . The shire of Forfar containeth Angus , with its pertinents . Earl of Southesk . The shire of Kinkardin containeth Mernis . Earl of Kincardin . The shire of Aberdeen containeth Mar , with its pertinents , also the most part of Buchan , Forumarten , and Strathbogie . Sir — Campbel of Caddel . The shire of Bamf containeth a small part of Buchan , Strath-Dovern , Boyn , Enzy , Strath-Awin and Balveny . Sir James Baird of Auchmedden . The shire of Elgine containeth the Eastern part of Murray . Robert Dumbar of — The shire of Nairn containeth the West part of Murray . — The shire of Innerness containeth Badenoch , Lochabyr , and the South part of Ross . Earl of Murray The shire of Cromarty containeth a small part of Ross , lying on the South side of Cromarty Firth . — The shire of Tayne containeth the rest of Ross , with the Isles of Sky , Lemes , and Harrigh . Earl of Seaforth The shire of Dornoch containeth Southerland . & Strath-Naver . Earl of Southerland . The shire of Weik containeth Cathness . Earl of Cathness . The shire of Orkney containeth all the Isles of Orkney and Schetland . — The Constabulary of Haddington containeth East Lothian and Lauderdale . Earl of Lauderdale . Stewartries . Stewards . The Stewartry of Strathern . Earl of Pearth . The Stewartry of Monteith . Earl of Monteith . The Stewartry of Annandate . Earl of Annandale . The Stewartry of Kirkudbright containeth the East parts of Galloway . Earl of Nithisdale . Baileries Bailiffs . Kyle . — Carrict . E. of Cassiles . Cunninghame . E. Eglington . We should in the next place have spoken somewhat of the Ecclesiastical Government of the Kingdom ; but it being done already by so many Learned Pens , especially Arch-Bishop Spotswood , to which we refer the Reader : We shall now pass to SECT . V. Of the Vniversities of Scotland . In Scotland there are four Universities . St. Andrews . Glasgow Aberdeen . Edenburgh . Of the Vniversity of St. Andrews . This University was founded by Bishop Heawardlaw A. D. 1412 the Arch-Bishops of St. Andrews are perpetually Chancellors thereof ; the Rector is chosen yearly , and hath the same Power with the Vice-chancellor of Oxford and Cambridge . There are in this University three Colledges , viz. St. Salvator , St. Leonards , and St. Maryes , St. Salvators Colledg was founded by Bishop Kennedy who endued it with very sumptuous and costly Ornaments ; and provided sufficient maintenance for the masters and professors . St. Leonards Colledg was founded by Prior , John Hepburn , A. D. 1525. Persons endowed are Principal , four Professors of Philosophy , Eight Poor Schollars . St. Maries Colledge was founded by Arch-Bishop Beaton , no Science is here taught but Theologie , which is done gratis , the Schools being open to receive any to be instructed . Of the Vniversity of Glasgow . This University was founded by King James the second , and augmented with ample Priviledges by King James the Sixth . King Charles the First did ratify all the old Priviledges , and bestowed mony for repairing the Fabrick , also King Charles the second by consent of Parliament bestowed a considerable sum of mony uppon it . Of the Vniversity of Aberdeen . There were in this place an associated company of Students of Divinity , and the Canon and City Laws in the times of King Alexander the second , but it was by King James the Fourth made an University in A. D. 1494 , it was founded with as ample Priviledges as any University in Christendom . In it both Philosophy , Divinity , Physick , and Law , are very accurately taught . The Vniversity of Edenburgh . King James the Sixth , Anno. Dom. 1580. founded this University upon the supplication of the Magistrates of the City ; granting them under the great Seal an University with all the priviledges and immunities that any University within the Kingdom could pretend to . Persons endowed , were , a Principal , a Professor of Divinity ; a Professor of Philosophy , a Professor of Humanity ; to which is since added a Professor of Hebrew . A Postscript . Of the Laws of Scotland for Torturing Criminals ; and of that Torture in particular called the Boot . THe Laws of Scotland , according to a late Learned Writer , Sir G. Mace●zy in his Criminals , allow not Tortures but in case of Obstinacy in the criminal , where there is great presumption of guilt , and therefore it is not allowed to any , but to the Councel or Justices to use torture in any case . It is a ruled case in Law , that Torture being adduced , purges all former presumptions , which preceded the Torture , if the person Tortured be constant in his denyal ; and therefore Torture is called , Probatio Vltima . Neither can a Person sentenced to dye , be Tortured , when Sentence is passed against him , for Post condemnationem judices functi sunt Officio . Minors also have this as one of their Priviledges , by the Scottish Laws , that they cannot be Tortured lest the tenderness both of their Age and Judgment make them fail . The most ordinary way of Torture in Scotland is , by an Iron Engine called the Boot , the manner thus . The Criminal is called to be examined before the Councel , and upon Obstinacy is threatned with the Boot , and then dismissed for that time ; with certification , that if within so many dayes he do not confess , he shall be Tortured : When this day comes , if he continue obstinate , he is called before the Council , or a Quorum of them , where the Executioner attends with the Boot ; there he is again examined by the Judges ; if he do not confess , then they order the Executioner to put his Leg in the Boot with some Iron Wedges ; then they examine him again ; if he continue refractory , then the Executioner is commanded to drive one of the Wedges , and then another , till the Criminal either confess , or the Judges are satisfied he hath nothing to confess . FINIS . Books Lately Printed and Sold by William Benbridge . THE second part of the Weeks Preparation for the Sacrament . Consisting of Soliloquies , Prayers , Hymns , Ejaculations , Thanksgiving and Examination , for Sunday Evening , ( after the Celebration of the Holy Communion . ) As also for Morning and Evening on every day of the Week following . Together with Directions to lead an Holy Life . The Stile of Exchanges , containing both their Law and Custom , as practised now in the most considerable place of Exchange in Europe . Unfoulding divers Misteries , and directing every Person , howsoever concerned in a Bill of Exchange , to what he ought to do and observe , in any case , in order to his own security . Translated out of Low and High-Duch , French and Italian-Latine Authors . The whole Methodically digested into Chapters and Sections , that by the help of an Index any particular Case many readily be found . By John Scarlett , Merchant of the Eastland Company , The second Edition . Lucian's Works , Translated from the Greek . By Ferrand Spence . 1. Volume . 2. Volume . 3. Volume . The History of the Bucan●ers : being an Impartial Relation of all the Battels , Sieges , and other most Eminent Assaults committed for several years upon the Coasts of the Westindies by the Pirates of Jamaica and Tortuga , both English , and other Nations . More especially the Unparallel'd Atchievments of Sir H. M. Made English from the Dutch Copy : Written by J. Esquemeling , one of the Bucaniers , very much Corrected from the Errours of the Original , by the Relations of some English Gentlemen , that then resides in those Parts . Scanderbeg Redivivus . An Historical Account of the Life and Actions of the most Victorious Prince John the III. King of Poland : Containing an Exact and Succinct Series of Affairs from his Cradle , to this present day ; With a particular Account of the many Great and Signal Victories obtained by Him against the Turks , from the time he was first made Crown-General , and afterwards Elected King of Poland . The Exact Englishman : Or , the compleat London Scholler , A new Spelling Book . Beginning with a Choice and Methodical Collection of all Monosyllable , or Words of one Syllable , ( turned into English Metre ; ) And Proceeding to those of two , three or more Syllables , digested into an Order and Method never before extant . With Graces and Prayers . Useful not only for English-Schoolmasters in teaching Children to Spell and Read , but may be servicable to the Elder Learners , and to Strangers , as a Repertory or Treasury of English Words to be used on occasion . By S. N. Schoolmaster in London . The Parliament of Women : Or , A Compleat History of the Proceedings and Debates , of a particular Junto , of Ladies and Gentlewomen , With a design to alter the Government of the World. By way of Satyr . Pandaemonium : Or , The Devil's Cloyster . Being a further blow to Modern Sadduceism , proving the Existence of Witches and Spirits . In a discourse deduced from the fall of the Angels , the Propogation of Satans Kingdom before the Flood : The Idolatry of the Ages after , greatly advancing Diabolical Confederacies , With an Account of the Lives and Transactions of several Notorious Witches , some whereof have been Popes : Also a Collection of several Authentick Relations of Strange Apparitions of Daemons and Specters , and Fascinations of Witches , never before Printed . By Richard Bovet Gent. FINIS . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A26656-e3980 Pect . Boet. Ralph l. 306. * Dion . 
A59090	----	The priviledges of the baronage of England, when they sit in Parliament collected (and of late revised) by John Selden of the Inner Temple Esquire, out of Parliament rolles ... & and other good authorities ... : the recitalls of the French records in the 4th. chap., also newly translated into English ... Selden, John, 1584-1654. This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A59090 of text R10915 in the English Short Title Catalog (Wing S2434). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 218 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 89 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2017 A59090 Wing S2434 ESTC R10915 12425310 ocm 12425310 61826 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A59090) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 61826) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 294:3) The priviledges of the baronage of England, when they sit in Parliament collected (and of late revised) by John Selden of the Inner Temple Esquire, out of Parliament rolles ... & and other good authorities ... : the recitalls of the French records in the 4th. chap., also newly translated into English ... Selden, John, 1584-1654. [7], 167 p. Printed by T. Badger for Matthew Wallbanck ..., London : 1642. Reproduction of original in British Library. eng England and Wales. -- Parliament. -- House of Lords -- Privileges and immunities. Nobility -- Great Britain. A59090 R10915 (Wing S2434). civilwar no The priviledges of the baronage of England, vvhen they sit in Parliament. Collected (and of late revised) by John Selden of the Inner Temple Selden, John 1642 38391 403 0 0 0 0 0 105 F The rate of 105 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the F category of texts with 100 or more defects per 10,000 words. 2004-09 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2004-10 SPi Global Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2004-11 Jonathan Blaney Sampled and proofread 2004-11 Jonathan Blaney Text and markup reviewed and edited 2005-01 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion The Priviledges OF THE BARONAGE OF ENGLAND , When they sit in Parliament . Collected ( and of late revised ) by John Selden of the Inner Temple Esquire out of the Parliament Rolles , and Journalls , Patent , and close Rolls ; the Crowne Rolls , the proceedings of the English Courts at Westminster , the Register of the Arch-bishop of Canterbury , and the Delegates yeare-Bookes , of the Common Law , Statutes & other good Authorities , and in such sort that frequently the words of the chiefest Testimonies are transcribed , least the freedome of the Readers Iudgement might be other wayes prevented by short Collections . The recitalls of the French Records in the 4th , Chap. also newly translated into English for the benefit of others , as well as the Students of the Lawes of England . Quo communius eo magis bonum quod est justum . LONDON , Printed by T. Badger for Matthew Wallbanck , and are to be sold at his shop at Grase-Inne Gate . 1642. The Introduction by way of Table or Index to the Chapters following contained in this Treatise . PRiviledges are speciall Rights belonging to the Baronage of England . In which name are com●rehended all those , who as Magnati & proceres regni by common right are summoned to every Parliament wherein also they have place and voyce as incident to their Dignities , and what things doe concerne them e●ther as they are one Estate together in the upper House , or as every one of them is privately a single Baron . As for the prelacy who had heretofore the first place in the summons , viz. Praelati , magnates &c. they have now lost all their Priviledges o● sitting in Parliament , and of bearing of any secular Offices in the Kingdome , they are disabled by act of this present Parliament , 17. Car. 1641. For Priviledges of the first kinde . CHAP. TEstimonies are hereby collected touching . CHAP. 1. Their proxies and making of proxies 1 CHAP. 2. Their proceedings in Suits as well for followers as for themselves during the Parliament . 7. CHAP. 3. That none of them bee subject to bee questioned before the lower House onely . 9. CHAP. 4. Their Jurisdi●●ion in matters of offences as well capital , as not capitall . Errors out of the Kings Bench . 10 CHAP. 5. Their passing of Bills and giving of Iudgements heretofore without any assent of spirituall Lords . 120 CHAP. 6. Their appointing of Iudges out of themselves for examination of delaies of Iudgements in other Courts . 127 CHAP. 7. Their Tennants of ancient Tennancies , bring discharged of paying the charges of Knights of the shiere . 129 For Priviledges of the second kinde , of which also some are communicated to Baronesses . The heads of the Collections are , CHAP. 1. FIrst touching Oathes and Protestationt upon Honour . 131 CHAP. 2 Tryall by Peeres . 142 CHAP. 3 Scandala magnatum . 155 CHAP. 4. Processe against them in English Courts Proceedings by Bill and Answere . id . CHAP. 5. Their number of Chaplaines is qualified . 158 CHAP. 6. Their retayning of strangers . 159 CHAP. 7. Clergy without reading . id . CHAP. 8. Their libertie of hunting in the Kings Forrests . 161 CHAP. 9. Amerciaments of them . id . CHAP. 10. No Processe in a civill account to bee awarded against the body of a Baron . 163 CHAP. 11. A Knight to bee returned upon every pannell where a Baron is party . 16 CHAP. 12. No day of grace against a Baro● of Parliament . ib. CHAP. 13. Making Deputies of places of Trust committed to them without words of the special power . 167 BEsides these , they have some Rights which are so commonly knowne , that there needs no particular mention of them ; as their interest in making , or repealing of Lawes , or the like , and divers others may perhaps be found , which have not been oblivious in the late search made for them : but of these particulars before mentioned , according to the order in which they are described , such store as are here collected doe follow . First , of the speciall RIGHTS , WHICH Concerne them , as they are one estate in the upper House of Parliament . CHAP. I. Of Proxies of the Lords of Parliament . VPON the summons of the Parliament , licence of absence being obtained , and the same licence as usually it being provided that a proxie bee made , the Baron so licensed may appeare onely by that proxie , to whom his voyce is so committed , although his Writ bee Quod personaliter inter●it , and so also without licence upon sicknesse or such inevitable cause of absence . The first mention of Proxies that occurres in the memories of our Parliaments , is of Carlile under Edward the first , where the words are , Quia omnes Praelati , Milites , & alij de communitate Regni , tunc plenariè non venerunt receptis quibusdam procurationibus Praelatorum , qui venire non poterant adjornantur omn●s qui summoniti sunt ad Parliamentum , usqué ad diem Mercurij proximum sequentem ad horam primam . And in a Parliament held at Westminster under Edwa●d the second ; the Bi●hops of of Durham , and Carlile remaining upon the defence of the marches of Scotland , were severally commanded to stay there ; And in the Writ this clause was ordered to both of them . Sed procuratorem vestrum sufficientèr instructum ad dictos diem , & locum mittatis ad consentiendum quod tunc ibidem per dictos praelatos & proceres contigerit ordinari . And the like Testimonies are afterwards under the same King for allowance , and making of proxies by the name of procuratores sufficientes . And in succeeding times the Testimonies of them downe to this day are most frequent . But two things are most especially observable touching them . ( 1. ) THat although the generall proxies were admitted , yet when the nature of the Parliamentory businesse required more speedie and full advice , a clause was inserted into the summons to premonish the Baron summoned , that his proxie should not bee admitted unlesse he were compelled to absent himselfe by most inevitable necessity . So was it in the Writs of summons under Edward the third to the Parliament , held for advice touching the voyage of the King of France , into the holy Land , every Baron having these words in his Writ . Scientes pro certo quod nisi evidens , & manifestus id exposcat non intendimus procuratores seu excusatores pro vobis admittere , ea vice propter arduitatem negotiorum praedictorum . And likewise under Richard the second , the summons to the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury , and the rest had these words . Et 〈◊〉 nullatonus amittatis ●ne quid absit per vestram absentiam quàm necessitate infirmitate tunc ●etenti fueritis quòd aliqualiter illuc laborare non poteritis nullo modo excusatum habere volumus , ista vice expeditio ne potior nostr●rum praedictorum retardetur , seu aliqual●ter deferatur . And divers other Exam●l●s are for personall appearance ▪ and exc●uding Proxies . ( 2. ) That the course of the elder time was : not that Barons onely were made Proxies in the upper House as at this day but other men also of low condition , and this hath beene very frequently in the case of Bishops , and Parliamentory Abbots and ●riors , who gave their letters usually to Parsons , Prebendaries , Canonists , and such like . In that Parliament of Carlile under Edward the first , the Bishop of Exeter sent to the Parliament , Henry de Pynkney parson of Houghton as his Proxie . The Bishop of Bath and Wells sent William of Charleton , a Canon of his Church , and in like for t other of the spiritualty of that time . In the beginning of the 17th . yeare of Richard the second , the Bishop of Norwich made Richard Corqueanx being then Deane of the Arches , Thomas Hederset Archdeacon of Sudbury , and Iohn Thorpe parson of Epingham , his Proxies by the name of Procuratores sive nuntij . And in the same time the Bishop of Durhams proxies were Iohn of Burton Canon of Bewdley , and Master of the Rolls , and Iohn of Wendlingborough Canon of London , and other like are of the same time . By which also that of the Preamble of the Statute of Praemunire is understood , where it is said that the advice of the Lords spirituall being present and of the procuratores of them that were absent , was demanded . The like under Henry the fourth and Henry the fift are found in the Rolls . And under Henry the fift the Arch-Bishop of Yorke gives the proxie to the Bishop of Durham ; and to two other Clerkes of his Province . And it is observable that in the making of proxies by the whole number of Bishops in case of Attainders upon Appeale , their course was sometime to make a Gentleman beneath the degree of a Baron , their Proxie as under Richard the second , first they made their proxie for assenting in the Parliament , but afterwards the Earle of Wiltshire had that place in the same Parliament . But this of making others then Barons of Parliament , proxies is carefully found in the cases of the Lords spirituall . One speciall case of it is under Henry the fift , in that of Thomas de la Ware , who being a Clergie man had his Barony descended unto him , and is stiled in the summons alwayes Magister Thomas de la Ware , and not Dominus , hee gave his Letters to , John Franke and Richard Hulme Clerkes but the proxie Rolls for the Temporall Lords are for the most part lost . The following Times especially ever since the first memorie extant of the Iournalls of the upper House ; which began the first of Henry the eight , have kept a constant course of making parliamentory Barons onely proxies . And it appeareth in those Iournalls that one two or three are joyned conjunctim , & divisim ; and most commonly Temporall Lords have given their proxies to temporall and spirituall men : yet not without a Temporall Lords giving his letters of proxie to a Spirituall , and Temporall Lord together . And under Queen Mary , Francis Earle of Shrewsbury made Anthony Viscount Mountague , and Thomas Bishop of Ely his proxies . And in the beginning of Queene Mary Stephen Gardiner Bishop of Winchester was joyned in letters of proxie sometimes with a Temporall Lord . But the Lords spirituall have so much mistataken ( of late ) the Lawes of this Kingdome , the Kings prerogative given by the Law , and what and whence was the Originall of the Honours , they themselves had obtained : and have beene ready to inlarge the Dominions of Antichrist , and to induce an arbitrary government by their writings , and other apparent practises , in so much as now they have lost both Priviledge and Vote in Parliament . CHAP. II. Priviledges in Suites as well for their followes as for themselves during the Parliament . IN a Bill exhibited under Henry the fourth , is shewed that the Lords Knights &c. and their men , and servants &c. should not be arrested or otherwise imprisoned by the custome of the Realme , and it is prayed that if any be the parties offending may make fine and ransome , and give dammages &c. Hereunto the Answer is , there is sufficient remedy in the case . In the beginning of Queene Elizabeths reign , Iohn Broxham being Plaintiffe , in an Assise in the County of Lincolne against the Lord Willoughby , it was ordained , that an Injunction should goe out of the Chancery Subpaena 500. l. That the Plaintiffe should not proceed to Tryall . To this head may bee referred that case of the Lord Cromwell , cited in the Title of processe against them in English Courts , & in the Iournalls of Queen Elizabeth , King James , and our present Soveraigne , the Testimonies of these priviledges for the servants of every Baron of Parliament are most frequent . Hereunto may be added that of the first citation out of an Ecclesiasticall Court against the Earle of Cornewall , which was served upon him in Westminster Hall , as he was going to the Parliament at the Suite of Bago d● Clare , and the Prior of Saint Trinity in London , for the Earle sued them for the contempt , and recovered 1000. Markes dammages . And in the same Parliament the Master of the Temple petitioneth that he might distraine for rent in a house in London , which it seemes the Bishop of Saint Davids held of him . In qua non potest distringere in tempore Parliamenti . But answer is , non videtur honestum quod Rex concedat , quod ille de consilio suo distringatur per Ostia & fenestras & prout Moris est . CHAP. III. No Peere of the upper House to be called to answer in the lower House only . THomas Philips complained of the Bishop of London upon divers Articles in the lower House , and at first by Order of the House , whence it was referred by reason of the slight nature of the offence , &c. whereupon the Bishop remembring the upper House of their Priviledges , Ejus verbis auditis pr●ceres omnes unâ voce dicebant quòd non consentantum fuit aliquem procerum praedictorum alicui in eo loco responsurum . So where the Bishop of Bristoll had written the Booke of Vnion , which was conceived to be derogatory to the honour of both Houses , yet hee was complained of onely in the upper House , and that so he might bee , and not before the lower House alone , it was acknowledged in the message delivered from the lower House touching him . The like is the priviledge of the Bishops complained of in this present Parliament , 1641. CHAP. IV. The Iurisdiction of the Lords of Parliament in matters of offences , aswell capitall as not capitall , and in errors out of the Kings bench . THe power of Iudicature belonging to the Lords of Parliament , is chiefly seene in their Iurisdiction upon Writs of error , and their Iudgements of Offences , as well capitall as not capitall , which they give to any publicke mischiefe in State . Of these Iudgements of such Offences many examples are of former times in the Records of Parliament , and out of them are here selected , some such as most of all conduce to the opening of the course of Accusation , the forme of the Defendants , answering the usuall wayes of Triall , and other Incidents in their various kindes of Iudgements , which are found arbitrary in cases not capitall : so that they extend not to the life or inheritance , and in capitall offences so Arbitrary , that the forme of the death inflicted sometimes varied from the ordinary course used in the common Law for such offences . Under the first Head these cases of 1. Iohn Matravers 2. Borges of Bayons 3. Iohn Deverill 4. Thomas Gourney 5. William of Ocle . 6. Iohn of Gomeniz , and 7. William of Weston . All condemned to death for Treason , and all to bee drawne , and hanged saving Gomeniz , who was judged to bee beheaded , because he was a Banneret , and had served the King in his Warres . Under the second Head are these cases of 1. Iohn at Lee Steward of the houshold . 2. Richard Lions . 3. William Lord Latimer . 4. William Ellis . 5. Chichester and Botesham . 6. Alice Pierce . 7. Cavendish against Sir Mich. de la Poole Chancellour of England . 8. The Earle of Northumberland . For Writs of error their power , and course in them may bee seene , some speciall examples which are expressed , whereunto is added that of Thorpe being Speaker of the Lower House , under Henry the sixt which specially shewes the power of Iudicature in the Lords , although otherwise it tast too much of what is wholy against the priviledges of every member of the Parliament at this day . Ex rot . Parliamenti 4. E. 3. mem. 3. num . 3. WItnesse the Peeres , Earles and Barons assembled in this Parliament , at Westminster , that it is openly assented and agreed , that Iohn Matravers is guilty of the death of Edmund Earle of Kent , the Vnckle of our Lord the King that now is , as he that principally , traiterously and falsely compassed the death of the said Earle , so that the said Iohn did know of the death of King Edward our Father , when the said Iohn by haynous manner , and by his false and wicked deeds conspiring with the sonne of the said Earle against the life of the King , which hee did actually commit , for which the said Peeres of the Land and Iudges of the Parliament , adjudge and award that the said Iohn bee drawne , hanged and quartered as a Traitor , in what part of the Kingdome soever he be found , and the said Peeres doe pray our Lord the King , that hee will command that a writ be made to make search and enquiry throughout the Realme , and that he that can take the said Iohn alive , and bring him to the King shall have a hundred markes , and if in case he cannot be taken alive , he that brings his head shall have fiftie pounds of the Kings guift . Moreover to have such judgement , it is agreed , that it be put in execution of Boges de Boyons , and John Deverell for the cause afore-mentioned , and that hee that can take the said Boges alive , and bring him to the King shall have a hundred pounds , and he which brings the head of the said Iohn shall have forty pounds of the Kings guift . Item it is assented and agreed , that Thomas Gourney and William of Ocle , shall have such judgement for the death of King Edward ( Father of our Lord the King that now is ) who falsely and traiterously murdered him ; and who can apprehend the said Thomas , and take him alive shall have a hundred pound , and he that can bring the head of him a hundred markes ; likewise he that can take the said William alive shall have a hundred markes , and hee that brings the head of him ( if in case hee cannot be taken alive ) shall have forty pound of the Kings guift . Rot. Parliamen . 4. R. 2. M. 5. in Schedula annexa . THis Schedule the Commons made and caused to be brought in Parliament , praying the Lords to ratefie the same , and to put in execution ; in that schedule amongst divers others , this Article occurres . Item that all those which have lost , or rendred when necessity required not , Castle Towne , or Fortresse to the dishonour of our Lord the King , the Lords and Commons in this present Parliament , being every of them attainted of such fault , shall be punished according to their desert without partiality , for to avoyde the evill example which they have given to all others . Then afterwards followes an Accusation and a Iudgement upon an offence of that nature . ITEM where the Supplication is by the Commons , that all those which have rendred and lost Castle or Townes , lost by the very default of Captaines may be put to their answer at this Parliament , and according to their desert throughly punished by the award of the Lords and Baronage , avoyding the evill example which they have given to others , and that Allen Buxall ( Constable of the Tower of London ) shall cause to come before the Lords of Parliament at Westminster , on friday the 27. day of November in the yeare afore mentioned , Iohn Lord of Gomeniz , and William of Weston imprisoned and detain'd in the said Tower at the commandement of our Lord the King , because they have rendered and lost faithfull Castles and Townes of our Lord the King , for to answer upon the Articles which there shall be preferred for the said cause , on the behalfe of our Lord the King . At which day being friday , the said John and William were brought by the said Constable of the Tower before the Lords aforesaid , sitting in full Parliament in the great chamber ; They were severally put to answer at the commandement of the said Lords , by sir Richard Scroope Knight , ( Steward of the Houshold of our Lord the King ) in manner as followeth . William of Weston , you have taken upon you to the thrice powerfull Prince , whom God have in his keeping , Lord Edward late King of England ( Vnckle of our Lord , the King that now is ) surely to keepe to him , and his Heires Kings of England : the Castle of Barwick without surrendring the same to any but him ; or his said Heirs , have you William who were a leige man of our Lord the King that now is ( true Heire of the late King Edward ) delivered and surrendered the said Castle to the Enemies of our Lord the King , without his Commandement in dishonour of him , and his Crowne , and of the Estate of his Realme of England , against your leigeance and undertakings : whereupon hee put his answer in writing , having a Schedule contayning the Tenor of many things , and came and read the said Schedule in full Parliament , upon which the Law was demanded by the said Steward , if the said Schedule should bee taken for his finall answer in that behalfe or not . And thereupon the said William prayeth that the said Schedule may be redelivered to him , and there hee putteth in his finall answer , and after the said William put in to the said Schedule an Addition in full Parliament for finall in that behalfe : The Tenor of which Schedule is such as followeth . To the most sage Councell , of our Lord the King , and to the other Nobles and Commons of Parliament . WIlliam of Weston beseecheth , and shewes that he is accused maliciously , to have rendered the Castle of Barwick , which he had in keeping upon the Trust and assignement of our Lord the King : may it please your just and learned discretion , to have the said William excused for the causes which follow . First , may it please you to remember how that the said William was lately warned by a Spie , that a very great power of Enemies came against him , for to besiege the said Castle , and to batter the same with great Ordinance , whereupon the said William forthwith by his Attourney , and by his Letters requested the Councell , that they would please to fo●tifie the said Castle with more Gentlemen , f●r the defence and safeguard the●of , having regard that the garrison of the said C●stle was not sufficient for halfe the multitude of so great force , to make resistance in so large a place : but in the end for that hee could have no succour of the said Councell , and likewise ( the said William being not in default was left without sufficient souldiers of a long time , whereby to keepe and defend the said Castle , whereof hee beseecheth you that you will take just , and benigne consideration . Likewise may it please you to take notice by the privy Scout of Warre , that there came the Enemies power of Armes , and seven hundred fighting men , with 6000. of the common souldiers of the Land , having nine great Cannons , a great Engine , and a Trebutchet big above measure , which they carried in their marches , that thereby presently a great part of their Gentlemen of Armes , & souldiers aforesaid came before the Gates of the said Castle , to assault it , and there was a Knight of theirs killed , which was cozen to the Lord of Chiffin , insomuch that officers and many others also were there slaine : and in a short time after they beganne to plant their Cannons , and Engines , and so continuing from day to day their assault ( that is to say ) Tuesday , Wednesday , and Thursday , and the walls then of the houses and of the said Castle were broken , and divided in many places , and they had by force filled the ditches of the said Castle in three places , if possible to make way for them to issue , and there came upon the said workes a a great part of them , and they by force had broake and spoyled many of our bars , and the morrow after which was Friday , they came at the break of day with all their strong men to assaile the said Castle , but by the help of God they were not yet Conquerours by force of their Assault . And of our side and of their side there appeared great death and losses , and the same day the Marshall of Burgoyny treated with the said William and others , to render the said Castle : Wherefore and in consideration , that the said Castle could not hold out for the smallnesse of the number of Gentlemen there , and for that the walls in many places were beaten down by their marvelous Ordnance , there was a Treatie with the Lords , to the end that the said William with his companions , might know what to doe the next morning , whether to stay or depart from thence . Likewise the same night the Enemies had brought all their Ordinance , their Engines Trebutchet and Cannons , upon carriages drawne by Horses to the foot of the ditch of the said Castle , and the next morning which was Saturday , they put themselves all in Order to assault the place , and then first of all they sent a Herald to the said VVilliam , to know if the same Castle should bee rendered or not , whereupon the said William by advice of the graver sort of his companions , having consideration how the said place was destroyed by their Ordinances , and also that there were few Gentlemen left for the defence , and that twelve of their companions were at that time dead , and that many being wounded and sick , he could not renew the Gentlemen of the Garrison , and that for safety to defend themselves , there being only but thirty eight , and by common assent the said Castle which hee could hold out no longer , was by force rendered for safety of the lives of the men . That all these things aforesaid are true , the said William putteth himselfe upon Tryall according to your discreet Ordinances . Item , it is to be remembred that when the said Castle was rendered ( as aforesaid ) certaine Gentlemen of France did bargaine with the said William for his victualls , and bought the same tog●ther with certaine persons , which the said William held within the said Castle in Prison , for which things hee received of them 1000. and 500. Franks , whereof hee paid to his companions for part of their wages which then was behind , three quarters of a yeare , 678. Franks . Item , hee payed at Callis for victualls of the said Castle before that time due 1442. Franks . Item for the passage of the said William , and for his expences being at Callis 135. Franks . And therefore the said William beseecheth that you have regard to Iustice and bounty , how that he by envious suggestion hath beene against all reason accused thereof concerning his estate and name , for which offence hee hath seised and stayed some of the Cattells of his Adversaries , and that you have consideration how that hee hath payd his companions out of his proper goods for their wages , and that you will be pleased for Gods sake and piety also to ordaine for him , that by your discreet noblenesse , hee may recover his Estate and goods . Item the said William Weston sheweth how the first day , when the Enemies came before Ardee he fled thence to the Army at Callis , to the Captaine there , to pray of him more succour and ayde of men to guard the Castle of Barwick , and to defend if the Enemies had assaulted , and the Captaine answered him briefly , that he would not deliver nor lend succour , nor aide at that time , for that he doubted himselfe the Enemies would come before the Towne of Callis . And the Lord Steward came and read the said schedule in Parliament . Iohn Lord of Gomeniz , you have undertaken to the thrice powerfull Prince , whom God preserve , Lord Edward late King of England Vnckle of our Lord the King that now is , safely to keep to him and his heires Kings of England , the Towne and Castle of Ardee without surrendring the same to any , but to the said King and his Heires , or by the Commandement of him and his Heires . Have you ( Lord of Gomeniz ) in time of our Lord the King surrendred the same without his commandement , to the detriment of him and ●is Crowne , and of the Estate of his Realme of England agai●st your undertaking aforesai● ? what say you to it ? whereupon the said Iohn answer●th , that the said Towne and C●stle of Ardee was so feeble , that hee could not well keepe it against so great power of the Enemies , which were readie to assaile the said Towne and Castle , and therefore he went forth to intreat with the E●●mies , that he might save the liege men of our Lord the King being within that Towne and Castle of Ardee , without that that he at any time tooke any thing for the surrender of the said Towne and Castle of Ardee . Whereupon one Geffery of Argentine Knight , said in full Parliament to the said Iohn , that he the said Geffery was at that time in the said Town and Company with the said Iohn , and that the Town and Castle of Ardee were not at any time delivered by his assent , but that he was ready to stay & come upon the safe guard thereof , and this the said Geffery affirmed . And moreover it was demanded of the said Iohn if hee had any other thing to say ? and hee answered no : whereupon the Constable was charged with the safe keeping of the said Iohn and William , untill the morning of the next day ; and then to bring them againe safely before the said Lords in the said Parliame●t at the place and day afo●esaid . At which day ( that is to say ) the eight and twentieth day of November , in the yeare aforesaid , w●re the said Iohn and William brought againe in full Parliament , and there it was shewed severally by the s●id Steward at the same day , by Commandement of the Lords aforesaid , how upon the Answers which the said Iohn and William have given in the said Parliament , ( as before mentioned ) to the Lords of the said Parliament , viz. the King of Castile and of Leon , and the Duke of Lancaster ; Edmond Earle of March , Richard Earle of Arundell : Thomas Earle of Warwick , Hugh Earle of Stafford , William Earle of Suffolke , William Earle of Salislbury , Henry Earle of Northumberland , Iohn Lord Nevill , Roger Lord Clifford ; and many other Lords , Barons , and Baronets being assembled in the said Parliament , to advise at the time when the said Answers were given in Parliament , the Friday Even at the howe● of three a clock , of the matters touching the answers aforesaid , and viewing and examining diligently the said Answers , and other Articles concerning that businesse . And upon good and mature deliberation and Information , given of the most valiant and discreet Knights , and òthers being in the said Parliament , it was said in manner as followeth , to the said William by the Steward reciting the things aforesaid , touching the said William . It seemed to the Lords aforesaid , that you William without ●uresse or default of victualls , have wickedly delivered , and surrendered to the Enemies of our Lord the King for your owne lucre , contrary to all plea of right or reason , and against your liegeance and undertaking according to an Information in such case : which me●tioneth whereas the late Baron of Graystock , who was a Lord and one of the Peeres of the Realme , had taken upon him safely to keepe to the aforesaid King , the Towne of Barwick : presently after the said King prepared himselfe to travell to the Kingdome of Francè ; the said Baron without the Kings Commandement , left the said Towne of Barwick , and a valiant Esquire Robert Ogle as Lievtenant of the said Baron , who safely should keepe the said Town of Barwicke to the King . And the said Baron went a● a horseman to the parts of France to the said King , and there stayed in his company , surmizing that an assault of warre was made at the said Towne of Barwick by the Scots . And the said Robert as Lievtenant of the said Baron , defended forcibly there , and at last by their assaults the said Towne was taken , and the s●id Robert and two of the sonnes of the said Robert were slaine , he being in the company of the King in the parts of France : And it was said that it was adjudged by the advise of the said King in the parts of France ; & the said Dukes , Nobles , and Earles t●g●ther with Henry Duke of Lancaster , the Earles of Northumberland , and Stafford , and Sir VValter Maney , that the s●id Towne was lost in default of the said Baron . And for that cause hee had Iudgement of life and member , and that he ought to forfeit all that hee had , and Iudgement was rendered in these words by the commandement of the King , which things also considered , for that you William have surrendered the Castle of Barwick to the Enemies of our Lord the King aforesaid ; without duresse or default of victuall against your alleageance , and undertaking aforesaid , the Lords aforenamed sitting in full Parliament adjudge you to death , and that you be drawne and hanged , but for that that our Lord the King is not yet informed of the manner of this Iudgement , the execution thereof shall be put in writing untill the King bee informed : wherefore it is commanded to the said Constable safely to keepe the said William , untill he hath other commandement from our Lord the King . And as touching the said Iohn Lord of Gomeniz touching the Answers aforesaid . It was shewed there by the said Steward , how the said Lords were assembled , and advised of the said Answers as before said . Moreover it was shewed how that at the time , that Sir Ralph Ferrars Knight had the keeping of the Towne and Castle of Ardee , the said Towne was not so strong by the one halfe , as it was at the time when the said Iohn surrendered the same , and the said Ralph did put himselfe in perill for the safeguard thereof , and forthwith the said Ralph did hold , and forcibly defend the same against a very great and forcible assault , and other evidences concerning the said Iohn in this behalfe were delivered , ( as followeth ) to the said John being in Parliament , by the said Steward , reciting all the matters aforesaid touching the forementioned Iudgement of the said Baron and the cause thereof in manner as before , it seemeth to the Lords before named sitting in full Parliament , considering your answers in this behalfe , and your examinations , and Informations therein , that lately amongst the number of Gentlemen , by whom you have strongly undertaken safely to keepe the said Towne and Castle with twenti● men of Armes , and twenty Archers you were sent to the said Towne and Castle of Ardee in the Afforcement thereof , according to your requ●st thereof made to certain Lords , being sent in message to Callis under our late King Edward , and at such time also as you were advised by the King of Castile , that if you could not wel● keepe it , you ought in no sort to take upon you to keepe the same , and there were that would have undertaken the safe keeping thereof to the said King Edward and his heires , and you have undertaken safely to guard the same with no surrender to any , but in manner as aforesaid , and now have you Iohn , without duresse or default of victualls or of Artillery , or of other things necessary for the defence of the said Townes and Castles of Ardee . without Commandement of our Lord the King , wickedly delivered and surrendered it to the Enemies of our Lord the King , by your owne default against all plea of right or reason ; and against your undertaking aforesaid , The Lords aforesaid in full Parliament adjudge you to death ; and for that you were a Gentlemen & Banneret , and have served the late King Edward in his warres , and have not proved a leige man to our Lord the King , you shall be beheaded without having other iustice . And for that also our Lord the King is not yet informed of the manner of this Iudgement , the execution thereof shall be respited untill our Lord the King shall be informed thereof , where it is commanded to the aforesaid Constable safely to keepe the said Iohn , untill he hath other commandement from our Lord the King . And it is to be remembred that Geffery Martyn Clerke of the Crowne , was named in this record , and delivered the same there in writing in this present roll , by his own proper hand . Ex. Rot. Parliamen . 42. E. 3. M. 2. N. 22 , 23. &c. WIlliam Latimer of the County of Dorset preferred a Petition in this Parliament , in manner as followeth . To our Lord the King and his Cou●cell sheweth William Latimer of the County of Dorset , That whereas ou● Lord the King otherwhiles in the pestilence granted to the Bishop of Salisbury , the Wardship of the Mannor of Dentish , and Devillish , in the said County being in his hands , by the minority of Robert son and heire of Robert Latimer Knight , together with the marriage of the said Robert the son , being then of the Age of sixe yeeres for a certaine summe of money to him payed : which Estate the said William Latimer hath held , untill Master Iohn Lee then Steward , by procurement of Thomas Delaber , sent one Richard Inworth Serjeant at Armes in Dorset , to the said William Latimer , to bring him to London in safeguard as prisoner with the Intent aforesaid ; that is to say the Monday next before the Feast of the Nativity of Saint Iohn the Baptist , in the yeare of our Lord the King that now is the nine and thirtieth , and the said serjeant also performed the same , and the said Master Iohn Lee did charge , and command the said William in the Kings name , that he should not goe out of Town upon paine of a hundred marks , untill he had surrendered the body of the said heire , contrary to the patent of the King , to the said Mr. Iohn Lee , and outed the said William of his Charter , and moreover made a deed of release , whereupon the said Master Iohn Lee comma●●●● to hold all the Lands , and Tenements aforesaid , untill the Feast of St. Michael then next ensuing , for a certain summe of money , and then the said Master Iohn Lee leased to the said William , the Wardship of the said mannor of Devillish rendring forty pounds per annum , whereof he was seised as prochein amy of the Infant , viz. Pulchrain Helto , Whitechurch , Oxford , & Staket , & let the same to the said William , and to divers other persons at his will , by such duresse , imprisonment and arresting the said William to the great mischiefe , grievous dammages and losses , to the great wrong of his simple estate , wherof hee prayeth remedy . To the points of which Petition the said Iohn Lee answereth , and saith , that because that the Mannors , Lands , and T●nements of Inheritance there comprised in the said Petition , were wickedly extended by the Escheator , and leased out of the Kings hand at too small a value , to the great dammage and deceit of the King , he caused the same Mannors , Lands and Tenements , to be resumed into the Kings hands , the Wardship of which Mannors , and the marriage of which said heire the King had committed to him . And likewise the said Iohn Lee was put to answer before the Lords , of the affaires in such time as hee was Steward of the Kings houshold , for that he had attaiched divers Gentlemen by their Bodies , some by Serjeants of Armes , and some by other wayes ; as William Latimer and others , and caused them to come before himselfe , as before the Counsell of the King in places where pleased him , out of any of the Kings accustomed places , to answer to divers things , whereof the recognizances ought to appertaine to the Courts of the King . Item It was debated concerning his authority of Stewardship , that he within the verge had attaiched divers Gentlemen of the verge , as Iohn Goddard , and others to answer in the Marshallsea of things done out of the verge , and caused some men to be apprehended , and sent to the Tower of London of his owne Authority , without Commandement of the King or his Councell . It was likewise debated , that Hugh Lavenham had appealed certaine Gentlemen of Felony , and that before the Kings Iustices at Newgate , and divers Gentlemen arraigned at his suit , whereof some put themselves upon the Country , and some defended themselves by their bodies , and stayed in prison as the Law demanded , and that an Appeallee of murder was let goe at large , by Commandement of the said John Lee against the Law , and command of the Iustices , and that hee tooke the said Hugh by his owne Authority and let him goe at large , and some that were not appeallees in roll of the Crowne , at the suggestion of the said Hugh were taken and imprisoned , as if they had beene appeallees . It was also affirmed that whereas the said Iohn Lee was sworne to the King , and his Councell ; he did bargaine with Master Nicholas Lovaine , concerning the Wardship of the Mannor of Reinham in Kent , being then in the hand of the said Nicholas by the under age of the sonne , and heire of Iohn Stanton as appeared by certaine evidences , as well by letters Patents under the Kings Great Seale , as others which the said Iohn had in his keeping , that very plainely , the said Mannor was holden of our Lord the King in chiefe , as of his Castle of Dover and Fort , that the Wardship thereof appertained to the King , to the great dammage and deceit of the King against his Oath . Of which points and articles , hee cannot duely and suffici●ntly excuse himselfe by the Law , and therefore was the said Iohn commanded to the Tower of London , and there to stay as a prisoner , till he had made fine and ransome to the King according to his will , And it was commanded to Master Allen Buxall Constable of the Tower ; that he take safe keeping of him , and so departed the Prelates , Dukes , Earles , and Barons , and afterwards by the commandement of the King , the said Iohn was caused to come guarded from the Tower to Westminster , before the Great Councell , and at other times examined upon the points of the Petition ; the ●ad Willi●m Latimer answered and said : Tha● our Lord the King had committed the wardship of the Mannors , Lan●s and Tenements of the said heire , untill the Age of the said heire together with the marriage of the said heire ; and as intirely hee would render it into the Kings hands And then before the said Councell it was agreed and assented by them : That the said Mannors , Lands and Tenements , and the body of the heire aforesaid ought to be released in the Kings hand , and delivered to the said William Latimer , to hold as hee held of the said Bishop untill the full Age of the said heire , doing to the King in manner as it was before the said Iohn surrendered the same ; and that the Letters Patents of the King made to the said Bishop , of the same ward and marriage , and the Letters of the said Bishop of the same Ward , and marriage made to the said William ; and surrendered to the said Iohn by the said William by durity and menaces , bee fully restored to the said William , and that the Enrolment of the release to the said Iohn by the said William of the same Ward , and marriage , also by durity and threatning made as by the said William in the Exchequer , be cancelled voyde and holden for nought for ever , saving all times to the King his right in time to come . Ex. Rot. Parl. 50. E. 3. mem. 2. num . 17. FIrst , the said Richard Lions Merchant of London , was impeached and accus●d by the said Commons , of many deceits , ( extortions , and other evill deeds commited by him , against our Lord the King , and his people , as well in the time that he had beene belonging to the House and Councell of the King as otherwise , during the time that he was Farmor of the Subsedies , and Customes of the King . And more especially for that the said Richard by Covin had betweene him , and some of the privie Councell of our Lord the King for their singular profit , and advantage , had procured and gotten many Patents , and Writs of Licence to be made to carry great faith and credit . whereby Skins , wools , and other merchandises were transported other where then to the Stap●e of Callis , against the Ordinances an● defences made in that behalfe , concerning the same before time in Parliament . And for that he had imposed and procured to bee put upon Wools , Skins , Leather , and other Merchandises , certaine new Impositions without assent of Parliament , and those Impositions and Taxes without permission of the King , or of the High Treasurer of the Realme , having not medlage therewith , and it was said how hee uncertainly tooke ten shillings in one parcell : and twelve pence in another parcell of every sack , &c. which mounted to a very great summe throughout all the time that hee had beene receiver , or Treasurer : and likewise of another new imposition of foure pence by him made , and put upon every pound of money upon the Lumbards , and other Merchants for a discharge by his owne proper Authority , and without warrant and assent in Parliament , or otherwise , and the same imposition of foure pence the pound , contrary to piety collected and kept as to the use of our Lord the King , whereof hee payed nothing . And also of divers loanes made to the use of the King without cause necessary , and more especially of one loane which he newly had at London , of twenty thousand markes , where our Lord the King was bound to pay 30000. markes , and that by the Counsell of the said Richard , and others in the Kings Court , who have covenanted with the receivers to have part of the gaine , and to be parties secretly to the said loane : the said Richard taketh the said money , and afterwards gaineth by way of vsury of the King his Lord , ( of whose Councell hee was before ) a great quantity of money in great dammage and deceit to the King , and also many other extortions thro●ghout the Realme , and so demeaned himselfe against his Councell , Treasurer and receiver , concerning the new impositions as otherwise , taking upon him in all the said matters the Royall Power which was horrible to rehearse . And also for that our Lord the King had beene debtor of Record to divers Gentlemen , of many great summes of money ; so had the said Richard by the assent of other privie complices in the Kings Court , of the said Covin , caused many such accounts to be bargained , and compounded sometimes for the tenth penny , and sometimes for the twentieth , or a hundreth penny , and hath procured the King to pay the debts intire , and so by such his subtilties , and for his singular profits as well our Lord the King as the said debts , are wickedly abused : and more especially the Prior of Saint John of Ierusalem in England , to whom the King was debtor of a certaine summe , and the said Richard hath had twenty foure Marks thereof for Broakage , to cause the said Prior to have payment of the remnant : and another time of the Lord Steward to whom the King was also a debtor , and the said Richard hath had of him by the same manner another great , summe of money , and so of many others in great deceit , slander , and villany to the King and his Court . Whereunto the said Richard present in Parliament , saith , that as to all the said Loane made to the King of the twenty markes aforesaid , hee is altogether without other fault , and further saith , that he at no time had profit or gaine , nor tooke any thing at all of the Loane aforesaid nor of the said money , nor in other things , and that he was ready to prove by all wayes reasonable when they would demand of him : and as to the said Impositions of ten shillings and twelve pence the sack of wooll , &c. & 4. pence the pound of money , he could not cleerely excuse himselfe that he had not so levied and collected and thereof taken money his part , that is to say , 12. pence of every sack of Wooll , &c. but that was ( hee said ) at the commandement of our Lord the King , & at the prayer and assent of the Merchants , who demanded such Licence , and as to the remnants of these Impositions he had wholy delivered them to the receiver of the Kings chamber , and accountable is the receiver in the Parliament . And the said Richard first of all collected the same , having a Warrant by which authority he hath before shewed in Parliament , under the Seale of the King himselfe and his Councell so to doe , and thereupon were witnesses produced in Parliament , that our Lord the King had expressed a day for the same . And some Lords there present in Parliament were , that knew not how or in what manner he was become in such office under the King , ( and what is more ) that the King knew him not for his Officer , and that amongst other Articles , the said Richard made no answer , wherefore the said Richard was awarded to prison during the Kings pleasure , and distrained to fine and ransome according to the quantity of his trespasse , and that he loose his freedome of the City of London , and bee no more in Office under the King , nor approach to the Kings Court or Councell , and thereupon another time the said Richard was sent before the Lords of Parliament , where it was said to him that it seemed to the Lords that his offences were so great and horrible , that hee had not sufficient wherewith to make satisfaction , and forthwith the said Richard submitted himselfe into the favour of the King , his body , his Lands , Tenements , goods and Chattells , and willed and granted that his body goods and Chattells should bee at the Kings will to give , and as to the Extortions done by the said Richard , or his Deputies from the time that hee was Farmer of the subsedies , or Customes as beforesaid , it is ordained in Parliament that good Inquiry bee made by sufficient Gentlemen in all the Ports of England . Ibidem N. 21. ITem William Lord Latimer was impeached and accused by the vote of the said Earles of deceits , extorsions , g●ievances and other mischiefs by him , and others of his faction and Covin , during the time he stayed as well under our Lord the King in Brittaine , when he was in Office with the King , as otherwise in England the time that he was Chamberlaine , and of the privie Councell o● the same our Lord the King . First of all concerning that when the said L. Lat. had bin long Captain of Becherell . and Officer of the late King Edward in Brittaine , if before or during the peace or truce it was committed . And thereupon it was proclaimed and published under the King through Brittaine that no English man , nor other Forreigner shall take Wines , Victualls nor other things of any persons , Towns , Castles nor of others , except they pay presently for them nor shall they take or ransome any Person , Town , Fortresse or other place , upon paine of what they may forfeit , notwithstanding all which the said Lord Latimer , and his Lievtenants and Officers caused to be taken by wrong and violence , of diverse Gentlemen of the Countrey , much wines and victuals to a great value , without paying any thing , and likewise ransomed many by oaths , and in taking and receiving ransoms unto the summe of 4 millions , and 3 thousand pounds : whereof our Lord the King enjoyed nothing , to the great dammage and villany of the King and oppression of his people and the said parts , and against the Proclamation and defence aforesaid , as in a letter made and sealed with the seales of many Lords of Brittaine cal●ed Ragman and sent into England to our Lord the King aforesaid more at large appeared , but the said Ragman could not be found in any sort , nor any man knew how to say in truth , what become of it , and yet he at another time was accused thereof , that he had taken at Becherell and Plimoyson , from thence unduly 153 l. w. of gold , whereof the King had never any part nor any restitution made thereof , and the parties from whom those summes were taken , preferred a Bill in Parliament in forme as followeth . It is to is to bee remembered that the proofes of parties that were ransomed at Becherell and Plymoison during the time of Truce , have paid so much to Master John , port-Constable of Bech●rell for the Lord Latimer , and to William his sonne , and to Hugh Middleton Receiver of the said Town or to the Lord Latimer departed out of Brittaine . The yearly summe 40 Franks . And likewise the said Constables William and Hugh , have received of the ransomes of such as were wont to bee ransomed during the Warre more moneys than would have well payd all the Souldiers of the said Town . The summe 50 Franks . And likewise the said Countrey of Brittaine have paied to the said Constables William and Hugh , for the death of divers Gentlemen liege men of our Lord the King that were killed upon the land of Britt●ine . The summe 30 Franks . And likewise the said Constable , and William his son gathered upon the Countrey of Brittaine , to send Monsieur Gakes from Plimouth dates to England . The summe 12 Franks . And likewise the said William for that he lost 20 Marks in the Isle of Garnesey , in a Ship , put a fane and ransome upon the said Becherell . The summe 1000 Franks . And likewise Robert Ravenstons boy , had stollen stollen a h●lf salt-seller of silver , and therefore the Land of Brittaine was ransomed . The summe 2 Franks . And likewise the said Constables William and Hugh Receivers of the said Town , had received divers times for victuals sold as salt , wine , beefe and other commodities , to the summe of 1000 Franks , to the great losse of your poore liege-men , and to the Town of Becherell . For by these extortions which they had borne and sustained by the horrible necessity of the poore people , and likewise of the Gentlemen , was the said Town lost . Wherefore they beseech our Lord the King and his Councell , to cause the said Constables William and Hugh to come and answer the aforesaid receits , so that our Lord the King may be served of that which belongeth to him , and that your poore liege-men that were in the defence of the said Town may be paid , their wages for the time that they were in the said Town , if so it be your pleasure . And likewise the said Lord Latimer was impeached by the Commons of divers loanes , made to the use of the King without cause necessary , to the great losse and and grievous dammage of the King , and more especially of a loane that was made of late to the use of the King , by the counsell of the Lord Latimer , Richard Lions and others of his covin of 20 thousand markes , where our Lord the King was obliged to his Creditors in the said Case to pay again 30 thousand marks , and that was done by covin of the said Lord Latimer , and others that were privy with the said Creditors , to have part of the said Gaine , and to be parties to the said deed , or without answering the said loanes ; for it was furnished in speciall , that the said money was the Kings own , taken out of his Chamber or Treasury , and also the proper money of the said Lord Latimer and Richard Lions , who appeared as if oppressed by the said loane , and also for that by like Covin between him and the said Rich. Lions for their singular profit & gaine he had procured and counselled our L. the King to grant many Licences by Patents and Writs , to cause a great quantity of Wools skins , and Leather and other things , to be carried to parts beyond the Sea , other then to Callis , against the Ordinances and defences made before time , in that behalfe , to the destruction of the staple of Callis and of the moneyage there , to the great dammage of the King , and of the Realme of England , and hurt of the Town of Callis ; and likewise that by such covin done betweene him and the said Richard Lions for their singular profit , he had caus●d to be put upon the wools , skins , leather and other marchandises of the Staple , divers new Impositions . That is to say of every sack of wooll passing other where than to Callis , by such Licence 11 s. more against the Statutes and Ordinances thereof made , and also for that by his singular profit and ill government betweene our Lord the King and his Realme , they have had and suffered many other grievances , losses , dammages , and villanies without number , as the losse of the Towne of S. Saviour in Normandy , & of the said place of Becherell , and of other Fortresses which might have been well saved and kept , if the King had been well counselled . And also concerning certaine Spies and other felons taken and imprisoned by the King , and after delivered by the Lord Latimer , of his own proper authority , without the knowledge or pleasure of the King , taking upon him , and incroaching notoriously in doing these things upon the Royall power . Whereunto the said Lord Latimer then present in Parliament said : That saving to him what ought to be saved to him ; as to one of the Peers of the Realme , as well in giving of Judgement as otherwayes in time to come , if please our Lord the King , and the Lords assembled , he might be put to answer to him , which in especiall would accuse him of any of the matters aforesaid , and afterwards for that no especiall person would openly accuse the said Lord of the same things in Parliament , whereof the Commons would maintain the said Accusations against the said Lord Latimer , in accusation of his person and Declaration of his fame , he said , that true it was , that hee was Captain of Becherell and that such a Peace was made in Brittaine under the King , and that an inquiry was made and put in writing & ●ealed with many Seales of the Lords of Brittaine , and sent to our Lord the King in England , which enquest is there called Ragman , but he saith that this Enquest was made by the Brittons and French , which would not have our Lord the King , nor any Englishman for their Governor , and falsly to have destroyed the said Lord , and he saith now ( as other times he hath said ) to our Lord the King when he was in like manner impeached thereof before the King himselfe , that all the profits , which he at any time received by himselfe or otherwise in Brittaine , passed not in all things the summe of 10000 l. accounted in the same summe of 10000 l. all the profits which he received for the ransome of Viscount of Roane and of other prisoners which he tooke at the Battaile of Crey and this he is ready to prove by all reasonable wayes that one of his estate and degree ought to do , and he saith , that it seemeth by the Law of Nations , that the said Ragman is not to be allowed and that it was done by the enemies of the King and Realme , ( as aforesaid ) and likewise made out of the Realme , and that therefore all men ought not to hold him of the lesse credit or Reputation . And soon after the Commons having this answer of Submission prayed the Lords of Parliament in behalfe of the King , that the 10000 l. execution be had forthwith against the said Lord Latimer , as of a thing past by the said Submission thereof as he had knowledged at another time , when he was impeached thereof , and that the said Submission be made by him , as it ought to be , nor that any remonstrance or agreement be made to the King , nor pardon , nor other thing gotten , by which he may be discharged . And the Lords answered , that the said Answer should be reported to our Lord the King , and thereupon right shall be done for the King and as to the said Bill preferred afore in Parliment concerning such men as he made his Deputies or Lievtenants at Becherel and Plimoyson , the said Lord Latimer faith , that hee is altogether innocent and without blame , even at the time that the said Ragman was so made and sent to our Lord the King . And the Lords answered thereunto , that they would take advice of the Kings Councell , and thereupon right should be done on every part . As to the loanes made to the use of our Lord the King without necessary cause , he answereth and saith , that he knew of none without cause very necessary and greatly behoovefull . And to that , that the intent is submitted to be false covin or other disloyalty for profit , or to have part , he saith , that he is altogether innocent and not guilty , and that he never delivered nor tooke any money or other thing of the King , nor of any other to make the said pretended Loane and that he was ready to prove by all wayes that a man ought to do . And as to the Patents and Writs made and granted for the passing of woolls , skins , leather , &c. otherwhere than to the Staple of Callis , he saith , That those licences were commenced before his time , with the King as well at Genoa and Venice , as other where , and further saith , that if nothing thereof had been done till his time , the same ha● not been done , nor was persued by his counsell only but by him with others , and that the●e accrewed thereby by vertue of the Kings Grant , great profit to the King , Whereof he was answered in his chamber . And as to the new Impositions , the same were never put upon the woolls , skins , and leather by him of late , nor upon the Countrey in any part , but only the subsidies thereof granted in Parliament , and that at the instance and prayer of those who demanded such licences , which payed voluntary and without any compulsion 11 s. the sack , that is to say , 10 s. to the use of the King , and the 12 d. to the use of the Clerks writing and persuing the s●id Licences , which moneys he hath not yet put in certain ; and further saith , that he took nothi●g therof to his own profit by himselfe nor any other , and that he is ready to prove by all reasonable ways and thereupon it was witnessed in Parliament by M. Richard S●roope Chancellor . late Treasurer of our L. the King , that Wil. Walworth of London in time when the said loane was made to the King of the said 20 thousand marks , the said Wil. Walworth profered in behalfe of himsel●e and his companions marchants of the said Staple of Callis , to the Lord Latimer to make a loane to our Lord the King of 10000 l without repaying any thing for increase by usury or otherwise by covenant so that they might be repayed the said 10 thousand pounds in their proper hands of the Subsidies due to the King , of their wooll , &c. then next to be passed to Callis , and that the King should covenant and grant that no such Licences shall be henceforth granted to carry woolls , &c. out of the Kingdom , further then the Staple of Callis . To which the said Lord Latimer answers and saith , that he had no such proffer of them and the other affirming the contrary , wondered that the said Wil. Walworth should make such a profer . And as to the losse of the said Townes and Forts , and the deliverance of some spies or felons so imprisoned the said Lord also saith that he is not guilty and that he will prove & avow by all reasonable ways that he ought to do . And therupon many other words and reasons shewen and pleas as well in fu●l Parliament as otherwise before the Prelates and Lords only as well for the part of our Lord the King , as for the part of the said Lord Latimer , and many examinations in print as well as otherwise , aft●r full deliberation thereof had , Iudgement was rendered in Parliament against the said L. Latimer in these words that follow . For that the said Lord Latimer is found in full Parliament in default by his singular government and counse●l against the profit of the King and his Realm . That is to say , of divers loa●es procured unto the Kings losse without necessary cause , and also of Patent● made in destruction of the Staple of Callis , and als● of divers Impositions put upon woolls against the Statute of Parliament in that behalfe lately made , he is awarded by the Prelates and Lords in full Parliament to prison , to be kept in Ward of the Ma●shall , and to make ra●som at the Kings will , whereupon the said Commons beseech the King for that he is found in such defaults by his singular Counsels , he being in all Offices of the King and especially one of the Kings Privy Counsell throughout all that time it was requested that the King would bee pleased to grant that the said Lord might go under baile , whereupon the King willed and granted that the said Lord Latimer should find in Parliament certain Prelates , Lords and others during the Parliament to have his body before the King and the Lords to answer further to the Articles wherof he was ●o arrested under a certain paine and forme comprised in a Schedule annexed . And under such surety , the Marshall of England let him go at liberty . Ibidem N. 31. ITem Will●am Ellis of great Jermouth , is impeached and accused in this present Parliament in divers manners first , viz. by the surmise of the Commons made to him , that the said William whilest he was Farmer to our Lord the King of his pety Customes in the Port of great Jermouth , and Deputy of Richard Lions Farmour of the Subsidies of 6 d. the pound , granted by our Lord the King of all Marchandizes passing out of the Kingdome , and entring in the same for the safeguard of the Sea , and of the Marchants passing by Sea , and of their Marchandize , he did take by him and his servants , as well English as of Strangers in the said Ports and members thereof , by way of extortion , by colour of his said Offices , many great summes of money , and otherwise that he ought not to have done , in great prejudice , slaunder of the King , and dammage of the said Realme , and to the oppression and wrong of the Marchants aforesaid . And the said William Ellis present in Parliament , saith , that true it is , that he is one of the Farmours of the said pety Customes of the Marchants passing and comming , saving the purport of the Commissions thereof made , without that that he tooke the same , or caused any thing to be taken by extortion , more than was clearely due to the King , and that hee was ready to prove to the King : by whatsoever way way hee ought to do , and the Commons replying said , that the said William confessed to them in the Common assembly in the Chapter house within the Abbey of Westminster the day before , that he had received the said 33 l. & prayed that against his owne ackowledgement so openly and before so many persons he might not at other times be received to say the contrary . And therupon the said Commons brought in Parliament John Botild & Willi . Cooper of Leiwstoft and two others that affirmed they had payed to the said William Ellis by the said Marchan● of Scotland , the said 3● l. for full Inform●tio● of the matter aforesaid , which John and William Cooper being thereof examined in Pa●liament acknowledged that t●ey were obliged to our Lord the King and to the said William Ellis by their obligations or letters obligatory in the said 33 pounds together with the said Scot , which was their hoast , and payed at a certaine day for the said Subsidy of 6 d. the pound due of all the marchandizes in the said ship and the truth was that the said Scot discharged nothing of all the matters aforesaid , at the day of payment , but that they payed to the said William Ellis the 33 l. and therupon the said Commons prayed Iudgment upon the same said William Ellis who said , that although that he had received the said 33 pounds of John Botild , and of the other aforesaid be received it not but as supposing the same a gift , and that without c●ndition , and that as often as concerning the ●ame hee should have a Writ or other Commandement of our Lord the King he would make deliverance thereof , which otherwise he would not do voluntarily . Item , afterwards the said John Botild and William Cooper did put in the Bils in form which followeth . To our Thrice doughty Lord the King and to his Sage Councell , Sheweth John Botild of Lewistoft that the munday next after the Ascension of our Lord , in the yeare of the raigne of our Lord the King that now is , the nine and fortieth that there was chased by tempest in Kirke la Rode , one Cockboat of Gotham in Pruse , whereof the Masters name was Henry Luce charged with divers Marchandizes of the Marchants of Pruse , that is ●o say , Freeze , and other marchandizes . And the same day William Savage Clerke and servant to Wil. Ellis , by commandement of the said William Ellis , tooke of the said Cockboat for the marchandizes ( neither discharged the same from paying custome then ) 17 nobles and a last of leather , the price of the last 10 pounds 16 s. at Lewistoft before the boat went out of Kirke la Rode , to the great danger of the said Marchants . And because that the said William Ellis knew that Wil. Cooper would come to this Parliament and shew this grievance & others in aid of the Marchants , and also set forth how the great Charter Huc . Ang. might be amended in aid of the whole Realm , the said Wil. by his false suggestion , caused the said Wil. Cooper to be arrested and cast in prison , for the space of 3 weeks : May it please our thrice doubty L. the King & his sage Councell , to make remedy thereof in worke of charity . Which Billes passed in absence of the said Wil. Ellis , he saith , that as to the said 17 nobles and skins , called leather , he could not sweare for him , nor for any of the said Marchants of Pruse , nor other whatsoever , and the said John Botild and Wil. Cooper affirming the contrary ; at last it was said by the Lords in Parliament , that those Billes touching the entry of the leather , were now in the Kings Bench for Triall . And as to the said Imprisonment , the said William Ellis saith , for that he was warned in cōming to London by many sufficient persons , that the said John , & Wil. Cooper , with 36 other persons of Lewist . did lie in wait for the person of the said Wil. Ellis at Wickham market in Suffolke and going there in the high way of Gerneith from London , at such time as the said W. was going towards London , carrying with him a great summ of the K. money of the Customes & Subsidies aforesaid , and for that the said W. Ellis is awarded to prison to make fine & ransom to our said L. the K. & it is awarded to either of the said Iohn and William Cooper twentie pounds for their dammages , and dispences during their said Imprisonment , had and suffered . Also it is awarded that the said Commissions be made to sufficient Gentlemen , to enquire of William Ellis , and of all others Deputies of the said Richard Lyons throughout the Realme . Parl. Anno 1. R. 2. n. 32. & 33. ITem William Fitz-Hugh Goldsmith of London preferred his bill in Parliament , in form as followeth : To our thrice excellent & thrice noble Lord the K. and to his thrice Honourable and thrice sage Councell shewen the poore Commons of the mysterie , and company of Goldsmiths in the City of London : that Iohn Chichester , Iohn Botesham , and many other Gentlemen , and ric● goldsmiths of that mystery in the same City , by their compassing and subtill devising deceitfully have caused many of the said company to enseale severally divers obligations , and those who refused so to doe were taken and imprisoned and in danger of death by many grievous threatnings of the said goldsmiths , who had sealed severally divers obligations as their poore companions had done before , to cause that the said poore Goldsmiths should not buy , nor sell to any Merchant Cutteller , Ieweller , Vphoulster , nor to any other forraigner nor Denizen , any goods of their working except they sold the same at a treble value , and that none of them should carry gilt , nor any other thing of gold or silver to any Ladie or other person to make profit thereof , and if they did that the paine comprised in the said Obligations should incurre upon them , as before the major Sheriffe and Aldermen of the s●id Citie , as by the confessions of the said rich Goldsmiths it was proved , wherupon it was unreasonably debated , so that it was put by good mediation and advice to the said Maior , and many of the Aldermen of the City : the said rich and poore Goldsmiths put themselves in Arbitrement of three good men , for a finall accord of all the debates and quarrells betweene themselves , which Arbitrators assented upon certaine points rehearsed to the parties aforesaid , and ordained the same points to be affirmed and inrolled in the Parliament for ever , and thereupon the said parties were released . But notwithstanding this Agreement the said rich Goldsmiths would not assent , nor suffer that the s●id points bee inrolled and holden as the said Arbitrators adjudged : And furthermore by their procurement many mischiefs doe from day to day arise to the wrong of the said poore Commoners so farre as they are like to be undone ( which God defend ) and have purchased likewise a new Charter against the said agreement , to the great decay and hurt of the said poore Commons : may it please you ( thrice gracious Lords ) to ordaine and command that the said Accord b●e affirmed , and holden finally for good , and that the said Charter and other things , tending to the prejudice and losse of the said poore Goldsmiths , bee made voide for Gods sake and in the worke of Charity . And thereupon the said Iohn Chichester and Iohn Botesham , and many other Goldsmi●hs of London came i● Parliament , and havi●g heard the said Bill , it was forthwith demanded of the said William Fitz-Hugh , if hee would maintaine the said Bill , and finde pledge to doe , and answer that which the Law demandeth , who said that he would doe so , but af●erwards he could not bring in his surety , nor pleadge to answer the said Bill , so was the said William Fitz Hugh commanded to the Tower by the award of the Lords in Parliament . Ibidem Anno 41. ITem the said 24. day of Decemb : during yet this present Parliament . Alice ●ierce was caused to come in the same Parliament before the Prelates and Lords , for to answer certaine matters , which by Letters should bee surmised against her in the Kings name , and thereupon by commandement of the Prelates and Lords of the said Parliament , Master Richard Scroope Treasurer , Steward of the house of our Lord the King rehearsed in Parliament , in the presence of the said Alice , an Ordinance made in Parliament holden at Westminster ; the monday next after the feast of Saint George , the yeare of the reigne of the King Vnckle of our Lord the King that now is , the 50. in these words , For that complaint is made to the King that many women have persued in the Courts of the King , divers businesses and quarrells by way of maintenance , and to have a share : which thing displeaseth the King to defend , and that h●nceforth no woman shall doe so ; and more especially Alice Pierce upon paine of whatsoever the said Alice may forfeit , and to be banished out of the Realme , and after this rehearsall made the said Steward surmised to the said Alice ; that it seemed to the Lords of Parliament that she had incurred the paine comprised in the said Ordinance , and had forfeited against the said Ordinances in certaine points , and more especially in two , viz. that she stayed Master Nicholas Dagworth Chancellour , when he was ordayned by the Councell of the late King to goe into Ireland , for certaine urgent businesses which should have beene profitable to our late King , and his Realme ; the said Alice after the said Ordinance made as aforesaid , perswaded the said King in his Court at Havering , that at her singular persuit and procurement , the said Nicholas was countermanded and his voyage stayed from all that Island , to the great dammage of our said late King and his Realme . Item , That whereas Richard Lions for misprisions w●ereof he was convicted at the said Parliament , holden the said 50. yeare of our late King Edward , submitted himselfe in the Parliament into the favour of the said King ( that is to say ) his Body , all his Lands and Tenements , and he gave some of them to the Earle of Cambridge , and some of them to Master Thomas Woodstock now Earle of Buckingham , for terme of their lives : the which our late K. after having pitie of the said Richard , was willing by the assent of his Councell to shew him favour , and to pardon him the Imprisonment of his body , and to restore him to certaine of his Lands , goods , and chattells aforesaid , which pardon seemed to our late King and his Councell t● be a grace sufficient , notwithstanding the said Alice so perswaded the said late King in his Court at Sheene , that by the singular persuit , and procurement of the said Alice , our late King Edward granted to the said Richard , all his Lands , goods , Tenements and chattels aforesaid , together with the said Tenements which hee had given to the said Earles for terme of their lives as before said , & amongst the same pardoned the said Richard 300. l. of certaine Arrerages due by the said Richard in the Exchequer , and also granted him a thousand marks of his Treasure to bee ●eceived of the said Ladie , which persuit and procurement are contrary to the Ordinance aforesaid . And the said Steward demanded of the said Alice how she would excuse her selfe of those Articles ? which Alice did answer and say , that she was not guilty of those Articles , and that she is ready to shew and prove by the Testimony of the said Master Iohn Ipr● then Steward of the said King Edward , & William Street then controller of his house Allen Buxall Knight , and Nicholas Carrein Keeper of the privie Seale of the said King and others that did then belong to the said King , and afterwards from him to the time supposed , that she committed forfeiture , and that they can discover the truth . And thereupon day is given unto the said Alice untill Wednesday next , by the Pr●lates , and Lords of the Parliament , and it was ordained and assented that those Articles shall be tried by witnesses and by enquest of those that were of the houshold of the late King Edward , whereby the truth may better be knowne , and thereupon were certaine persons examined before the Earle of March , the Earle of Arundell , the Duke of Lancaster , the Earle of Cambridge , and the Earle of Warwick ; that is to say first Master Roger Beauchampe late Chamberlaine of the said King Edward , sworne upon the holy Evangelists , and diligently examined touching the Countermand of Master Nicholas Dagworth , and upon the other Article concerning the said Kings pardon , and favour to Richard Lions , saith upon his Oath , that in presence of the Ladie Alice Pierce a Bill was delivered to him , which Bill he tooke , and after hee had understood that the same contained the calling back of Master Nicholas Dagworth from Ireland , for that he was an en●my to Master William Winsor , to that which the Bill supposed he answered , that hee durst not preferr it to the King for that the Counsell had ordained the contrary , and the said Alice requested him and said that he might safely deliver it to the King , and presently the King demanded of what matter they discoursed , and the said Master Roger answered of a Bill that doth containe such businesse , & forthwith when the King had understood the Bill , hee answered that the Petition was reasonable , and when Master Roger replyed the Councell had ordained to the contrary , the King answered that he himselfe was agreeing , and that yet it seemed the Bill was reasonable , and commanded him that the said Master Nicholas be caused ●o be called back , which was likewise done , but what day or moneth it was he remembreth not , and as to the matter of Richard Lions the said Mr. Roger saith , that he was Chamberlaine but an houre , and so knoweth nothing more then he hath said . Item Master Lanc. diligently examined before the Committees saith , that he came one day to Havering , and found the Ladie Alice Pierce there , and forthwith Master Roger Beauchampe shewed him Billa , and after the King understood the matter , hee said thus that it seemed not reason , that one en●mie should bee judge of another , and the said Duke answered that hee was come betweene them , but it was so that the said Ma●ter Nicholas was sent for the profit of the Land , and of all the Realme ; and therefore it was ordained before the King that the said Master Nicholas and Master William doe come before the Councell , and if the said Master William could prove any cause for the Enmity betweene them ; that then the said Master Nicholas shall not goe if he well can prove such enmity ; otherwise the Ordinance of the Councell made in that behalf shall stand in force : to which thing the King did well assent for that time , but forthwith the King was assailed in his chamber by the said Ladie Alice , and there came in the said Duke and prayed the King that he would not suffer in any sort , that the said Mr. Nicholas bee called back , who answered , that it should bee no otherwise then it was afore ordained before the King , and when hee came in that behalfe to crave a testimoniall favour , hee could not obtaine it , and the next morning when the said Duke did his obeysance to the King in his bed . The King himselfe commanded upon his blessing that he suffer not in any manner that the said Master Nicholas goe into Ireland , The Ordinance thereof made the day before to the contrary notwithstanding , and likewise the said Master Nicholas was countermanded , and as to the Article of Richard Lions , hee saith in his conscience that the said Alice was principall promotrix of the said businesse : but he was not present when it was done . Item Master Philip de Bath sworne , and diligently examined , saith , as to the Article of Master Nicholas Dagworth , that he heard not the said Dame Alice speak to the King of the same matter , but hee heard in the Kings house the said Ladie Alice make a great murmur and say , that it was no reason nor Law , that the said Master Nicholas who was an enemie to the aforesaid Master William , should goe into Ireland to enquire , and doe Iustice against him , and more hee know●s not how to say in this matter . But as to the Article of the said Richard hee saith , that he was one day at Sheene when the said Richard was brought before the King , and that he was called into the Kings chamber to heare those things that were to be done , and when he understood a little of the matter he would not stay in the chamber ; and further he saith that there were then in the Kings Chamber , the said Lady Alice , Nicholas Currein ; Master Allen Buxall , Walter Walsham and many others ; & saith that she was in the Court ; and that the said Lady Alice was an aider and friend in the businesse . Item Nicholas Currein sworn as aforesaid : and diligently examined saith , that he was commanded by the King to come to Sheer , & there he found Rich : Lions : which Richard and Nicholas were commanded to come before the King to his bed , and there they fou●d the Lady Alice Pierce sitting at the side of the bed : and there it was shewen that the King would pardon the said 300. l. to which he was yet bound to the King , as of the arrerages of his accompt in the Exchequer , and also the King would give to the said Richard 1000. markes of his Treasure , and further would make full restitution of the Tenements which had bin given to his sons of Cambridge , and Woodstock as before said . And thereupon the King commanded the said Nicholas to say from him his pleasure to his said s●nnes , but he saith that hee remembreth not i● that matter were showne at that time before t●e King , by relation of any other person , or by the Bill of the said Richard there read , or otherwise by the said Richard himselfe : the said Nicholas remembers himselfe very well : that he requested to come before the King , who caused to come from behind ●h● curtaines Master Allen Buxall , and others Knights , and Bishops which then were there to testifie that which the King had said to the said Nicholas in the said commandements and so it was done , and all the commandements of the King were r●hearsed in presence of all those men . And as to the matter of Master Nicholas Dagworth he saith , that he knowes nothing but that Master Roger Beauchampe sent him to countermand the said Master Nicholas . Item Master Allen Buxall sworne in like manner , and diligently examined saith , that one day at Sheen after the last Parliament he was called to the King , where hee found the Lady Alice Pierce , Nicholas Currein , and many other Knights , & Esquires which came with him , and there it was rehearsed by the said Nicholas , how the King had shewed favour to Richard Lions of his Tenements , which were holden by the Earle of Cambridge , and Master Thomas of Woo●stock , and had given him a 1000. marks of his Treasury : And as to that which was don , the said Dame Alice Pierce prayed the same Mr. Allen , that hee would declare to the said Earles the Kings will , & his chargings upon the blessing of their father , to cease to extend the Tenements of Ma●ter Allen , and that they doe it voluntarily if the King commanded them to doe so . And forthwith at the instance of the said Alice the King commanded , and it was also done . And as to the Article of Master Nicholas Dagworth he saith , that he knoweth nothing but that hee heard the said Lady Alice say many tim●s , that it is not reason nor Law that the said Mr. Nicholas who was enemy to Master William Windsor , should bee sent into Ireland to make Inquisition of him or against him . Item , Will : Street late controller of the Kings house , sworne in like manner , and diligently examined saith , that he was one day at Havering , when William●f Yorke spake to the K. of William Windsor , in presence of the Lady Alice Pierce for to disturb the passage of Master Ni●holas , and the said Lady Alice said , that it ●as not reason that one Enemy shoul● bee Iudge of another , And moreover the said William Stre●t saith in his consci●nce , that the said Lad●Alice was principall and motrix of the said cause , as he verily beleeves . And as to the Article of Richard Lions he knowes nothing before it was all finished . Item , John Beverill sworne in like manner and diligently examined saith , that he heard not at any time the said Lady Alice speake to the King concerning neither the one Article nor the other , and that she kept her selfe well from him , that she spake nothing in his presence , but hee thinks in his conscience that she was the promotrix in the said businesse , for hee knowes no other which could have followed that matter , and notwithstanding they were caused to come before the said Duke , and the said Earles , Mr. Robert Beauchampe , Master Allen Buxall , Master Iohn Burle , Mr. Philip de la Page , Mr. Iohn Foxley , and Thomas Barre Knight , Nich : Currein , Iohn Beauchampe of Holt , John Beverly , George Felborough , John Salisbury , William Street , Pierce Cornewall , Thomas Lurden , Lolvin Legat Esquires of the house of the said late King Edward : which doe say upon their oathes that the said Alice was principall promotrix to the said King , at his Court a●Havering , about the Feast of All Saints in the 50. yeare of his Reigne concerning that Article , touching the revocation of the said Nicholas Dagworth , and for that she was committed . Item as to the Article touching Richard Lions , they know well that the said Alice was well willing , councelling and aiding to the said busines prevailing with the said King at Shee● in the moneth of May last past , and for that she is found guilty in the same impeachment , and the Lords of Parliament , that were at Parliament when the said Ordinance was made , remember , that their intention was witnessed , and bearing the force of a Statute , and by the generall words ( whatsoever the said Alice may forfeit ) extend as well to the forfeiture of Lands and Tenements as goods and Chattells and all other possessions considering the dammages and villanies by her done to the King and to the Realme for that it was in effect to restraine , and punish the said Lady Alice only ( wherefore it is awarded in this present Parliament , that the said Ordinance have the force and effect according to the intent aforesaid , that she be banished out of the Realm , and her Lands and Chattels , Tenements and possessions as well in demeane , as in reversion be forfeited to the King , and seised into his hand and it is the Intention of the King , and of the Lords , & of the Ordinances assented to in the same Parliament , that all the Lands whereof she hath taken the profit , or bargained to her own profit be forfeited , because of the fraud which may bee presumed in which shee is most abounding , for which c●use the same sh●ll 〈◊〉 ●or●eited to the King , and seised as the o●her Lands . And it is the Intention of the King and of the Lords , that this O●dinance and award made by the King for such odious things in this especiall case , which may extend to a thousand other persons shall in no other case but this bee taken in Example . Likewise it is ordained and assented , that notwithstanding the said forfeiture if she purchased any Lands or possessions by fo●ce or dures ; Bee it by fine or by deed in pais or deed inrolled , or otherwise , that the purchase bee holden for nothing , and that the parties which perceiv themselves aggrieved may have remedy by processe in Chancery , and by advice of the GRANDIES of the Councell right shall bee done to the parties ; and restitution made according to the case demanded , so that the purchases made bona fide be not made voide nor disanulled b● any manner of way . Et istud rotulum sic factum ; & scriptum tradidit & libera● it Edmundus Bradwell Clericus de Corona &c hoc in Parliamento assig . Clerico . Parliamenti . Ex. Rot Parliam . Anno 7. R. 2. N 11. ITem It is to be understood that the 23. day of May , there was present , one Iohn Cavendish of London pri●oner in this Parliament before the Commons of England , in their Assembly in presence of some Prelates , and Lords temporall there being , and afterwards before all the Prelates and Lords being in this Parliament , and prayed the Lords , that for Go●s s●ke they would hasten for the peace , and safety of his life that hee may have iufficient surety of the peace of those whe●eof hee complained , and especially demanded surety of the Peace of Master Nicholas de la Poole Chancellor of England , and this request to him was granted , and thereupon by Commandements of the Lords aforesaid , the said Master Nicholas there present found Sureties to be peaceable towards the said Iohn , that is to say the Earle of Stafford : and the Earle of Salisbury : and the said Iohn rehearsed how at the last Parliament hee had made persuit by one Savill against Gibbon , Mansfield , Robert de Parry : Iohn Hawkins , and WILLIAM HORSMAN to have Restitution of certaine goods , and marchandizes of great value left upon the Sea , in default of the said Gibbon , Robert John , and William at the time when he had undertooke the safeguard of the Sea ; and of the marchandizes passing and comming from Sea , for the time against all Enemies out of the power Royall , which Bill was endorsed in the said Parliament he confessed , and acknowledged in the Chancery for to discontinue and determine the matter , by composition according to Law and reason . And further the said Iohn saith , that hee being a Fishmonger hath preferred at the same Pa●liament his Bill , for that a Clerk and familiar of the Chancellor whose name was Iohn Otler , undertooke that the said Fishmonger should the better have good helpe in his case of the said Chancellor before whom his busines depended , who was to do Iustice to high and low : which Clerk demanded copies of his Bills , and demeaned the whole businesse that he delivered to him , which when hee had viewed and understood , he promised that for 40. pounds to the use of his said Lord , and 4. pounds to his own proper use , hee should have his busines wel● & graciously dispatched by his Lord without difficu●●y , & upon this promise the said Iohn Cavēdish was well agreed , & granted to pay him the said 44. l. in māner as he should demand the same , but for that he said he had not the sum ready in his hand to pay , he obliged himself voluntarily to make payment well & lawfully at a certain day , & ●o it was done , and afterwards the said Fishmonger delivered to the Clerk certain quantity of Herring , Sturgeon , and other fish to the value of 9. or 10. marks , to the use and behoofe of the said Chancellor , in part of payment of the 40. l. aforesaid , and 3. ells of Scarlet , which cost him 32. s. he delivered to the said Clerke in part of payment of the said 40. l. which he promised . And further the said Cavendish saith , that although he had don so much and promised to give more to one person and another alwayes , yet he found not long friendshi● , aid f●vour , nor succour in effect in the person of the said Chancellor in the said suit for all his cost , and also he saith , that a good part of all sorts came with him to the house of the said Chancellor , to discourse of his matter where hee found there his Adversaries before him , where hee encountred them in presence of the said Chancellor : but if the said Chancellor be to bee punished for committing of this Affaire , or no , he knoweth not , God knowes , but he saith that true it is , that at a certain day past the said Chancellor caused him to bee payed for his Fishes , and that hee cancelled the Obligation , and that the same was cancelled in bounty , and conscience ; or otherwise to shunne a slaunder and reproach in the case , hee knowes not now to say , but saith for certaine , that for the three Elles of Scarlet , hee was not yet payed , and thereupon the said Chancellor first of all before the LORDS and COMMONS answereth , and saith , That in this affaire , and of all this matter hee is innocent in every degree ; And first of all as to that that is surmised of him by the Accusation hee now saith , that the said Fishmonger had not beene delayed , nor is yet delayed by the said Chancellor , and that right and Iustice is done to him in the said Suit , and that the Accusation containes no Truth , and the said Chanc●llor voucheth to witnesse all the Iudges , and Serjeants of the Realme who were present in the Chancery many times when the said matter was pleaded betweene the parties , which suit is pleaded to issue , whereof part lieth in Iudgement , and part remaineth untried , so that nothing now remaineth to doe , but to render Iudgement there of what remaineth in Iudgement and Traverses thereof have beene put in for difficulty , and for other cause , and that it is not Truth of the said Chancellor , that the Fishmonger hath now said , that hee could not have Iustice and that hee is unjustly delayed . And as to the remnant of the Accusation now made , the said Chancellor sweareth by the SACRAMENT of IESVS CHRIST that hee is utterly innocent , and more thereof did never come into his Cognizance , but in manner , as hee hath said which is thus and saith , that of late hee had speech with the Officers of his house to know the Estate thereof , and for ordinary payment of those to whom for the dispences of his said House hee was a debtor , and there first of all , and before his Officers hee demanded how such a quantity of Herring , and Sturgeon was brought into his said house , and not by way of bargained-for provision , and in what manner the same was spent in his house , whereat he marvelled because he knew not the said Fishmonger , and there withall he reckoned with his said Officers how such an obligation was also made by the said Fishmonger , who had a generall suit depending before him , and as soone as the heads of this matter was understood by him , hee was much grieved , and in passion did curse and sweare to his said Officers , that hee would not eat nor drinke within his said house , untill the said Fishmonger was payed for that which he had sent into his house aforesaid , and the Obligation was utterly cancelled and defaced , and thereupon presently was the said Fishmonger at his commandement caused to come in presence of the said Chancellor in the Chappell within his house , where hee stayed for the present time when he was in London , in the same Chappell where our Lord Iesus Christs Sacrament was continually , he swore by the same Sacrament in presence of his said Clerk , & of the said Fishmonger that he was never boūd to do that which his said Clerk had undertaken , & that he touched nothing of the said Commodities before reckoned , nor had knowledge thereof in private or in publick , but by relation of those other Officers in manner aforesaid , and that hee was never a partner to the said Covenant made thereof in any manner , nor caused the said Clerk to take the same Obligation , but caused the said Fishmonger to bee payed for his Fish aforesaid . And the said Chancellor swore by the Sacrament of Jesus Christ , that his excuse now given , in contained full truth , and that hee is ready to prove in whatsoever manner it pleaseth our Lord the King , and his Noble Lords of the Realme there present to ordaine , and the said Chancellor prayeth to the Lords aforesaid , that they have due consideration to the Estate that hee beareth within the Realme by his Office of Chancellor ; that it may so please them to ordayne him due remedie and Iustice of the said Fishmonger , concerning the defame and grievous slander which hee had brought upon his person in Parliament , which is the most high Court of the Realme , and could not accuse the said Chancellor of any thing in his complaint , but onely the Clerk of the said Lord . And for that the said Fishmonger disclaimeth in part , his said Accusation , and so denieth by his owne mouth that hee had not any bargaine with the person of the said Chancellor but with his said Clerk . And also for that as well the said Clerk as the said Fishmonger thereupon examined , acknowledged that the aforesaid Obligation was made to the said Clerk onely , and in his name without naming the Person of the said Chancellor in any part , and that the same Clerk upon his Oath made in the case had fully excused his Master the said Chancellor , that hee was not knowing of the said Obligation , nor of the Covenant aforesaid otherwise then before set forth . And for that also his said Officers Gibbon , Robert , and William were personally in this Parliament , and examined upon their Alleageances to say the Truth of their part in this case answered expressely , that they never gave any thing , nor promised to give reward to the said Chancellor in private , nor openly by themselves , or any other person in the World : the Lords aforesaid ●old the person of the said Chancellor for excused of whatsoever was comprised in the Accusation aforesaid . And thereupon the said Chancellor prayed againe to the LORDS there , for that as well the said Fishmonger had disavowed his Accusation in part , and for that he might every way be excused thereof for any thing that could appeare to the Iudgement of every discreet person which heareth the said Accusation , that for those words , which the said Fishmonger had put in his Bill , he the said Fishmonger might be arrested untill he had found sufficient sureties to tender him that which should be adjudged upon this matter , and especially upon the false slander aforesaid , which he had drawn upon him . And therupon it was commanded by the Lords , That as well the said Fishmonger , as the said Clerke should be committed , and so they were committed to priso● , 〈◊〉 ●fterwards they were let go at large ▪ That is to say , the said Fishmonger by the maine-prise of Thomas Spicer a●d Steven Skinner , who w●re obliged body for bo●y to have the said Fishmonger from day to day , before the Lords aforesaid , or before whatsoev●r Judges should be assigned : And afterwards , f●r that the Parliament was drawing to an end , and the Lords were also greatly busied there amongst o●her great businesses of the Realm . The said Suit by the Pa●liament with all things therof , was referred to the Iudges of the Kings Bench , to be heard and determined , as well for our Lord the King as for the parties . In Schedula . Record . fact . apud Westminsterium per Justiciarios , &c. ET postea die Martis proximo post octab . Trin. viz. 14 die Junii Anno regni Domini Regis R. 2. post Conquestum 7 Robertus Tresilian capitalis Justiciarius in Banco ipsius Regis , Robertus Belknap capitalis Justiciarius in Communi Banco , & Roger . Fulthropp unus Justiciarius in Communi Banco vigore Commissionis Parliamenti dicti Domini Regis , apud Novum Sarum ultimo tento fact . & authoritate ejusdem Commissionis unde in rotulo Parliamenti predicti mentio facta est specialis , contra quendam Iohannem Cavendish de London Fishmonger qui Parliamento praedicto primo , viz. Coram communitate regni Ang. Congregat. & postmodum alia vite coram magnatibus ejusdem regni in eodem Parliamento , de Michali de Poole Milite , Cancellario dicti regni , & Iohanne Ottre Clerico ipsius Cancellarii de diversis misprisionibus sibi per eosdem factis , ut asseruit , graviter querelavit ; & ipsum Cancellarium per hoc multipliciter accusavit & aefamavit processi , in hunc modum . Imprimis , viz. ipsum Iohann . Cavendish , Coram iisdem Iusticiariis apud Westminst. dicto 14 die Iunii , assedentibus sibi tunc ibid. Hugone Seagrave Milite , Thesaurario Angl. Magistro Walter de Shirlawe , Custode privati Sigilli , Iohanne Wal●ham , Custode Rotulorum Cancellariis , nec non Waltero Clopton , Willielmo Richell , & Iohanne de Lockon serviend . ipsius Regis venire fecerunt , qui ibidem comparens & de accusatione sua praedict. & fact . & in Rotulo Parliamenti praedicti , plenius irrotuletur , cujus mat●ria , una cum responsionibus per Dominum Can●ellarium in eodem Parliamento , adhuc in excusationem suam datis prout continetur in Rotulo praedic pro majore parte recitat . coram ipso Iohanne de Cavendish , tu●c ibidem allocatum fuit per Iusticiarios praedic . & super hoc quaesitum fuit ab eodem , si quid haberet pro se vel ulterius dicere sciret , quare ipse poenam in Statuto contra hujusmodi defamatores edito subire non debeat maxime cum Idem Cancellarius se in Parliamento illo excusavit & omni alio modo possibili se inde excusare est paratus , qui quidem Ioh. ad hoc respondebat & dixit quod ipse nunquam personam dicti Cancellarii in Parliam . illo defamavit , nec aliquid sinistrum sive inhonestum de persona ipsius Cancellarii clam vel palam in Parliamento ille dixit , vel alias affirmavit quovis modo sed dicit quod quicquid per eum in hac parte fuerit hoc solum de praefato Ioh. Ottre Clerico ipsius Cancellarii in ista materia factum & sententia verborum suorum , ac modo & forma eorundem , nec non responsionibus ipsius Cancellarii & aliorum ex parte sua hinc inde factis & dictis ibidem debite ponderatis & ulterius haben●a respondit ad hoc quod ubi praefatus Ioh. Cavendish , dixit quod Justiciam coram dicto ●omino Cancellario praedict. prout alius praedict. Cancellarius allegavit in eodem Parlia. clare constare debeat cui cunque discreto , & intelligenti , quod idem Ioh. Cavendish per accusationem suam praedictam ipsum cancellar. . in eodem Parliam . false defamavit . Per quod consideratum est quod praefatus Ioh. Cavendish super defamatione illa convincatur & idem cancellar. . recuperet versus eum dāna sua et quod Ioh. Cavendish praedict. committitur prisonae Domini Regis ibid. moratur . quo usque tam preafato Cancellario de damnis suis praedictis , quam dicto Domino Regi pro fine competenti sibi inde debito plenarie satisfecerit . Rotulo Parliamenti , Anno 10. R. 2. M. 4. & 5. IN this Parliament all the Commons with one accord and in one assembly came before the King , Prelates and Lords in the Parliament Chamber , complayning grievously of Michael de la Poole Earle of Suffolk , late Chancellor of England being then present , and accused him by demonstrance of word of mouth in manner following , that is to say , First , that the said Earle being Chancellor and sworn to do the profit of the King , purchased of our Lord the King , Lands , Tenements and Rents to a great va●ue , as appeares by the Records , and Rols of the Chancery , against his Oath in tha● behalfe , not considering the great necessity of the King & the realm . And moreover , because the said Earle was Chancellor in time of the said purchase made , the said lands and tenements were extended at a lesser value than they were worth per annum by a great summe , to the deceiving of our Lord the King . ITem the said Lords were assigned at the last Parliament to view and examine the Estate of the King and Realme , and to declare their advice how the same may bee well amended and put in better Governance and disposition ; And the examination & report therupon made to the King , as well by mouth as in writing , the said late Chancellor said in full Parliament , that the said advertisement and Ordinance , ought to be put in due execution , and that it was not done in default of him that was the principall Officer . ITem , Whereas the charge was granted by the Commons in the last Parliament , to be put into certain forme , demanded by the Commons and assented by the King & the Lords , and no otherwise nor in any other manner then was ordayned , many mischiefes are come to the Realme , and it seemes true , that ●hey came in default of the said late Chancellor . ITem , It was debated , That whereas one Tidman of Lymberch , who had to him & his heires , of the gift of our late King Edward , 50 l. per annum , of the Custome of Kingston upon Hull , which the said Tidman forfeited to the King ; And also the payment of 50 l. a yeare , was discontinued for 20 , or 30 yeares , the said late Chancelor knowing thereof , purchased to him and his heires of the said Tidman the said 50 l. a yeare , and the purchase was untill the K. ought to enjoy the profit . ITem , It was debated , whereas the high Master of S. Anthony is a Schismatique , and for that cause the King ought to have the profit which appertaineth to him in the Realme of England , the said late Chancellor who ought to have advanced and procured the profit of the King , tooke to farme the said profit of the K. for 20 marks a yeare , and there tooke to his own use goods , and 1000 marks and more . And that the said Master of S. Anthony in England , which now is , ought to have possession of the said profit , and he could not have it before he had two persons bound with him by recognizance in Chancery , and other Instruments to pay 3000 l. yearly to the said late Chancellor , and to John his son 100 l. a yeare , for terme of their two lives . ITem , That in time of the said late Chancellor there were granted and made divers Charters and Patents of Murthers , Treasons , Felonies , Rasure of Rols , Sale of Woods , and in especial after the beginning of this Parliament , there was made and ensealed one Charter of certain Franchizes granted to the Castle of Dover , in the disherison of the Crowne and the subversion of the duties of the places and Courts of the King and of his people . ITem , By the Ordinance that was made in the last Parliament for the Towne of Gaunt , That ten thousand marks ought to be gathered , and for default of such collection , there ought to bee forfeited 3000 marks , that by default and negligence therein of the said late Chancellor , the said Town was lost , and forthwith the said 10000 marks payed & the said 3000 marks lost by def●ult as aforesaid . Of all which Articles the said Commons demand Iudgment of Parliament , whereunto the said E. made his answer in manner which followeth . First , the said Earle saith to the Lords of Parliament , how that he was Chancellor of England , and the same time did represent the person of the King in his absence , and demanded if he ought to answer without the presence of the King , for that he was impeached of things done in time that hee was Chancellor . Secondly , the said E. had ordained by the advice of his Councell , that Master Richad Scroope his brother in Law , should put in the words of his Answer of the said impeachments . Whereunto the Lords replyed , that it was honest for him to answer by his owne mouth , and therupon he made protestation that he might adde or diminish in his Answer what might be honou●able and profitable to him , by advise of his Councell . Which thing was granted to him . ANd as to the first Article of his impeachment , That is to say , after that hee was Chancellor that hee purchased certain land of the King &c. the said ● . doth answer , &c. After that he was Chancellor , he at no time purchased any lands nor tenements of the King nor the King gave to him any , untill the time that the King caused him to take the Estate of an Earle , but by way of true Exchange , videlicet , That how the said Earle hath had foure hundred markes a yeare upon the Custome of Kingston upon Hull by descent of Inheritance , for which it pleased the King to assigne to the said Earle the Lands or Tenements in value ; and that he assigned and gave part thereof to the profit of the King as well yearely as because of a summ of 1000 marks payed to the King by the said Earle for that cause . And further saith that the King at his progresse into Scotland pleased to make Duks , Bannerets , and Knights , to the honour of him and his Realme , he plea●ed without desire or seeking of the said Earle of his own proper motion , to make him Earle , and commanded him to take the Estate of the Earle of Suffolke in place of him that late died , and after that he named the quantity of that which he had to maintain that estate , and further saith that he will assigne the quantity of the lands , which were belonging to the said Earle of Suffolk who last died . ITem He saith , That the said Tidman hath had 50 l. a yeare upon the antient Custom of King . upon Hull , to him and his heires inheritably for ever , whereof King Edward uncle of the King that now is , was not payed of a long time , as appeares by the Accounts of Customers of Kingston upon Hull , in the Exchequer of our Lord the King , which Tidman for 1000 ma●kes which he owed to the said Earle , granted to him by his deed a long time since the 50 pounds aforesaid to have and to hold to the said Earle and his heires for ever . And because the said Earle , made restitution of the patent of the said Tidman to the King , discharged of arrerages , the K. pardoned the same purchase , without that , that the said Earle then committed or had yet committed any forfeiture , or debt against the King concerning the said Tidman . ITem , As to the other Article , in which there is mention of a Charter granted , &c. he saith that a warrant came to him for so doing , and for that it was A Castle and to the profit of the King without evill intent of the said Earle , he passed it not intendi●g then that it was against the Laws ; And if any man would have declared or informed the said E. that it had been prejudiciall to the King or his Laws , he had not ensealed the same , but would have repealed it , and that yet thereof no dammage is come , &c. And as to the other Charters specified in the same Article , he passed them by Warrant without ill intention or covin of his part in any point . And further he prayeth , that no new way bee put upon him otherwise , then had beene used aforetimes upon any Lord or such Officers understanding that of the Chancellor make a patent against reason or law . That such patent shal be repealed and such Iudgement reversed , Without inflicting other punishment upon such Officer o● Iudge . And the Commons replying to the Answer of the said Earle , concerning the first Article , did shew to the Lords the copy of his Oath , made when he was created Chancellor , in manner as followeth . YOu shall sweare that well and loyally you will serve our Lord the King and his people , in the Office of Chancellor , and shall do right to all sorts poore and rich , according to the Laws and Usages of the Realm , and lawfully shall Counsell the King , and his Counsell shall keep . And you shall not be privy , nor suffer any dammage , nor disherison to the K. nor that the rights of the Crown be taken away , if you can any way hinder it , and if you cannot hinder it , you shall make the same cleerly and expresly known to the K. Together with your loyall Advice and Counsell , and you shall cause and purchase the profit of the King , by all that lieth in you to do reasonably , so helpe you God and his holy Gospell . ANd praying that the same might be read well understood , and the circumstances of the said Answer considered , viz. That he had not denied that he received of the Kings gift after that he was made Earle , being in the Office of the said Chancellor , divers Lands and Tenements which are certai● and sure of the value of 400 marks a yeare , which he hath had upon the Custom of Kingston upon Hull , which are casuall & may deceive the King to his dammage in that behalfe . And how he said that he had received part of the ●●id Lands and Tenements , so taken ●n ●xchange before he was Cha●cellor . The Commons say , that he was then of the privy Councell , and afterwards sworne in the creation of the Office of Chancellor , by the aforesaid Oath , and he in that Office agreeing to the exchanges , takes and receives the remnant of the said Lands and Tenements in full performance of the exchanges , as by his Answer in Parliament aforesaid . ANd in Answer to the second Article , the Commons replying , say , That insomuch as he acknowledgeth in his proper protestations , That he represented the Estate of the King , while he was Officer : and so extends his power upon all others , wherfore although default was in others , he cannot therefore be excused , and especially of that which the King had commanded him to speake in Parliament as he had said , he was the more bound to put the said matter in execution , and to confesse , what he denied not , the dammages are no lesse than they have surmised : They pray the Iudgement of Parliament . ANd as to the Answer of the fourth Article , the Commons replying say , That it shall be found of record in the Exchequer , the aforesaid Tydman to be debtor to the King in great summs as they suppose , and for that cause the said rent appertaines to the King , notwithstandi●g he had otherwise forfeited , and so the King was deceived and they pray that the records may be examined . And further say , That one Neele Hackney was killed by his wife and his servant , and the said Tydman for which felony , the said woman and servant were arraigned found guilty , and suffered the Iudgement and execution of the Sentence of the Law , and the said Tydman as followeth . ANd to the Answer of the fift Article , the Commons prayed again , proposing the example of one William Thorpe late Chief Iustice of the Kings Bench , surmising that he tooke 20 l. of one party who had an Office in plea before him , and for that he sold the Law , for which cause he was judged to death & forfeiture of his Lands and Chattels , and say insomuch as the said Earle was so Chancellor , and tooke 100 l. &c. of the said provision there commanded to be delivered out of the Kings hands of his profits , which hee ought to have done according to the command of the K. freely without taking any thing , it seemeth to them that hee hath sold the Lawe and prayen Iudgement . ANd to the Answer of the sixt Article , the Commons replying said , That it appertained to him ( as wise as he is ) to be well advised and counselled , that he assent not , nor do such a thing which may tend to the disherison of the King , and oppression of his people , as he would avoyd the Indurance of the Iudgement of Parliament . ANd thereupon the said Earle replying to the Replication of the Commons , touching his oath said , That to take the words of the said oath without other speciall Intendment no Chancellor heraftet will inseale any thing of the Kings grant to any persons of Lands and Tenements or other Goods without offence of his Oath . But the said Earle saith , That it is not comprised in the said Oath , nor forbidden him to take to himselfe of the Kings gift , nor to any other person . And for that the Kings gifts to other persons in the said voyage , nor of divers other things before , be not impeached not holden against the Oath of the Chancellor , it seemeth to him that no more he ought to be impeached for the gifts given to his personall estate , seeing that in the said Oath it is not forbidden nor restrained to him more than to others , & more especially for that the said Estate and the Gifts given are confirmed by Parliament , and further saith , that he accepted of his Oath of Chancellor according to his conscience and power , and for the causes before expressed , he saith , as he shall answer before God , that he thinks nothing done in the matters aforesaid against his Oath , or understanding of his conscience , but that the Chancellour may inseale the Kings guifts to the Lo●ds for to maintaine their Estate ; or for other reasonable cause by the Kings warrant , and that hee hath done nothing against his Oath , &c. And saith that , that which is comprised in the Oath that hee suffer no dammage , not disherison of the King &c. That is to bee understood of that which is intended , of matters wherof the King hath not cognisance , and that appeareth by the clause comprised in the Oath , that hee shall make known to the King cleerely , and express●ly : And after that the King is informed in such manner , the Chancellor may doe the Kings Commandement without offence of his Oath , and s●ith that concerning his Estate , and what the King gave him , it was expressely done by the Commandement , knowledge , and will of the King , and so not against his Oath , and that it may not bee intended that hee should bee impeached concerning this matter . ITem as to that , that the Commons say that the said Earle hath deceived the King ; because he hath taken of the King , the manner of Faxfleet in value 50. pounds which Manno● was worth 200. l. per annum &c. The said Earle answereth , that Master William Morris hath reported to him that hee hath taken of the King the two parts of the said Mannor , with the rent in North Dalton to serve for 7. yeares for fifty pound a yeare , and that hee hath lost by the said Farme in the said time a 100. marks , and further saith that the said Mannor with the ten markes of rent in Dalton altogether are extended ( as appeares in the Chancery ) but at 41. l. 9. s. 3. d ob . And for that that , the said Earle understands by the Earle of Kent , who hath had the said two parts of the said Mannor together with the said ten marks , at the value of 50. marks , that the intire Mannor could not bee above the value of 50. pounds . And further saith , that the said Mannor with the ten markes are not worth more . And that under a certain● paine saith , that whatsoever person will sustaine the charges of the said Mannor sufficiently , and pay him for the two parts 50. markes for aid , and as to the third part bee it what it will , let him give security to pay for the said Mannor , with the ten markes of rent 50. l. per annum , that hee will so lease it with all his heart . ITem as to that impeachment of the Commons of a 100. pound pension , out of the provision of Saint Ant●o●y , and that the said Earle should sell the Lawes , and put in an Example of Master William Thorpe &c the said Earle answereth , That the cases are nothing alike , which the parties pleaded before the said Master William Thorpe as before their Iudge for the Lawes of England . In which case no Iudges ought to take reward of any parties pleading before them . But the s●id provision came to him with the help of Saint Pierce the Pope , and not as a Chancellor or Iudge in this case , but as Father and friend to John his son . At which time a man knew not if the said Iohn had obtained it of the Popes favour or no . Also faults were found by the Counsell of the said Earle in the Bulls of the said provision ; And from the same caus● the said Provisour by his friends of his owne accord profered an annuall Pension of a 100. and 60. pound for to leave suit in the Court of Rome by his said Sonne , and for that hee should not impeach the Bulls : that the matters before said were not done as before a Iudge , but by way of composition as may bee prooved by instrument and by witnesses in this Towne , and so this matter touched not the Lawes of England , and alwayes the said Earle intended not but that hee should bee holden to answer to the party in this case . And thereupon after the answers of the said Earle given to the Accusations of the said Commons , and the replications to them made of one part , and of another the said Earle at the request of the said Commons for the greatnesses of the defaults so of him surmised , was arrested by Commandement of the KING and Commons in ward of the Constable of England , and afterwards let at Liberty upon bayle . And for that the said Earle alleadged not in his answer that hee observed the effect of his Oath , in that hee swore that hee would not know nor suffer dammage , nor disherison cleerely and expressely to the KING , together with his owne lawfull advice and Councell , and that hee should cause and purchase the profit of the KING by all that he could reasonably doe : and hee held the premisses although hee were principall Officer of the KING , knowing the Estate and necessity of the KING and of the Realme , and did take of the KING such Lands , and Tenements as is supposed in the Impeachment to him in the said first article surmised , & although he alleadged in his answer , that the deeds to him so made were confirmed by full Parliament , there is no such accord in the rolls of Parliament wherefore it is awarded that all the mannors , Lands , Tenements , rents , services , fees , advonsons , reversions & profits with their appurtenances by him so received of the K. ●e reseised & reprised into the K. hand , to have & to hold to our L. the K. the lands & chattells of the said E. from thenceforth is not the Intention of the K. nor of the Lords , nor that this Iudgement extend in the Law to cause the said E. to lose his name and title of Earle , nor of the 20. pounds a yeare , which the King granted him , to take of the Issues of the County of Suffolk by the name and Title aforesaid . And moreover for that the said E. lately denyed that he was of the K. privy counsel when he demāded of the K. the said exchāge & had acknowledg'd that before the exchāges performed hee was made Chancellor , in which Office hee was bound by his Oath made in the forme aforesaid : and hee so being sworne to the said Office , tooke of the King the said 400. markes of Land , by reason of the said Exchange agreeing to the said covenant of Exchange , which hee also made before that hee was Chancellor , in which Office hee was bound by his Oath : And alleadged not in his said answer , that the King gave him Mannors , Lands , and Tenements ; which are certaine and cannot very easily bee destroyed , nor bee countervailed by the aforesaid 400. marks annuity , which are leviable and demandable of the Customes and also as casuall , and in divers cases there may losse insue ; It is awarded that all the Lands and Tenements so taken by the said Earle , by the exchanges aforesaid bee resumed into the hands of our Lord the King to hold to him and his Heires , in manner as hee held the same before the gift or deed in the said Exchange , in which the Issues and profits aforesaid after the said exchange deducted : if the said Issues and profits so taken after the Exchanges extend to a gr●ater value then 400. markes a yeare , that then the King shall have the overplus of the Lands and chattells of the said Earle from thenceforth hereafter . And it is therefore awarded that as well the said Mannor of Flaxflreet , and the ten marks of rents aforesaid with the appurtenances bee reprised in the Kings hand to hold to him , and his Heires as hee held the same before the gift to the said Earle , so as the Charter , the pardon , and Confirmation of the purchase of the said fifty pounds of rent bee certaine in the hands of the King , and his heires in firme as it was before the purchase , and it was since to the said Earle , and that the issues & profits received or owing to the use of the said Earle as well of the said Mannor o●Faxfleet , and the ten markes of rent as the Issues and profits of the said fifty pound of rent , which he thereof had taken by reason of the purchase aforesaid , bee levied to the use of our Lord the King of the Lands , and Chattells of the said Earle from henceforth . And as to the Article containing the Provisions of Saint ANTHONY ▪ for that the Master of the House of Saint Anthony in which the profits were taken as proved in England was a Schismaticke , and taxed for moving the King and power of France and by such repute as then and yet is taken to bee , wherefore all the said profit ought to appertain to the KING as of a Schismatick and alien , which thing of reaso● ought to have beene made known by the said Ea●le , before hee demanded of the KING the said profit , and hee k●ew expressely that hee demanded it for ●is sonne as an Hospitall , and alleadged not in his answer , that the King when hee granted the profit was informed of the matters aforesaid : and also in that , that when hee was such an Officer as beforesaid , hee sent to the Court of Rome to have the same profit for his Sonne of the Collation of the Pope ( as benefice of the holy Church ) and to have also the profit out of the KINGS hand by the Sea Apostolicall ( as the Record termeth it ) and hee denies not that hee received of the said profits foure hundred pounds per annum , alleadging that hee rendered to the KING the s●me , and that after the said Earle had made a bargain● to have the provision which hee claymed of the said profit in England of the Pope , a hundred pound per annum of the said provision to him and his Sonne John , for term of their two lives for to deliver the said profit to the said provision for payment of which 100. l. to him , and his sonne he tooke surety of the provision by recognizance and Obligations of divers summes , notwithstanding that the King had commanded by his Letters to deliver all the profit aforesaid out of his hands to the said provision there , where it seems for any thing that yet was shewn , that all the said profit ought to have rested in the Kings hand for the causes aforesaid , at least untill it had be●ne discussed whether the said profit were the benefit of holy Church grantable by the Pope : or appurtenant to the K. by reason of Schismasie and endemnity of the said Master , and he alleadged not in his answer , that the King was cleerely informed of the matters aforesaid : wherefore it is awarded that the said foure hundred markes per annum in time , that the said profit was so granted to him by the King untill the time that hee delivered the same profit to the said provision , as also the said 100. l. a yeare received also of the s●id provision untill the same bee levied to the use of our Lord the King of his Lands and cha●tells , and that all the profit which should of late appertaine to the said Earle by reason of the said recognizance , or of other Obligations , and Covenants also made in surety of payment . And as also to the 1000. marke● , which hee had alleadged that he payed to the King for the said Exchanges . It is awarded that the said 1000. markes remaining in the hands of the King , as part of payment of the fine and ransome th●t the said Earle shall likewise make to the King , before hee be delivered from prison . Ex rotulo Parliamenti Anno 5. H. 4. N. 11. ITem Friday the last day of February , the Earle of Northumberland came before the King , and the Lords and Commons of Parliament , and there the Chancellor of England shewed how on Tuesday last past hee had beene before the King , the Lords and Commons in the same Parliament , and there beseeched the King as hee had done at other times at his comming before him in Yorke , that it would please our said Lord the King to grant him pardon of those things wherein he hath offended against him , not keeping his Lawes and Statutes as Ligeance demandeth as by a Petition by him preferred in Parliament , written in English , whereof the Tenor ensueth may appeare more at large . To my most Dreadfull and Soveraigne liege LORD . I Your humble liege , beseech your Highnesse to have in remembrance my comming to your Highnesse , to have in remembrance my comming to your Worshipfull presence unto Yorke of my free will by your goodly Letters , where I put mee in your Grace , as I that nought have kept your Lawes and Statutes , as liegeance asketh , and especially of gathering of power , and giving of Liveries , as that time I put mee in your Grace and yet doe . And I sent it like to your Highnesse , that all gracelesse should not goe . Wherefore I beseech you that your High Grace be seene on mee at this time , and of other things which you have examined mee of , I have told you plainely , and of all I put mee wholy in your Grace . WHich Petition by Commandement of the King , examined by the Iustices for to have their Counsell , and advice in this behalfe by Protestation made by the said Lords , that the Iudgement appertained to them onely , and after rea●ing and understanding of the same Petion before the Lords , as Peers of the Parliament , to whom such Iudgements appertaine of right to heare and understand by the Statutes made in the 25th . yeare of the King that now is , by deliberation of King Edward cozen of our Lord the King that now is , they adjudge that those things which the said Earle hath don contained in the said Petition , are not treason nor Felony but onely Trespasse , for which Trespasse hee ought to make fine and ransome according to the Kings pleasure , wherefore the said Earle most humbly reverenceth our Lord the King , and the said Lords , the Peeres of Parliament concerning the right Iudgement , and further the said Earle prayed our Lord the KING , that in affirmance of those matters hee might bee purged from all suspitions , and prayed to bee judged de Novo , in the presence of the KING , and of the LORDS and Commons in Parliament ; the said Earle tooke his Oath upon the Crosse of the Arch-bishop to bee faithfull and loyall liege man to our Lord the King , and to his eldest sonne and to the Heires issuing of his body , and to his brothers and their Issue successesively and inheritably , at which time if the King would command him , hee should bee ready to shew and declare that which hee knowes in that he halfe , and set forth the truth thereof . And that our Lord the King might not bee deceived , the said Earle was present and ( charged in his liberty ) the said Earle upon his Oath which hee had made upon the said crosse setteth forth and declareth openly in Parliament that , which hee knoweth in this matter upon which charge to him given the said E. saith . That at the day of Tryall of his life hee knew not of the Dukes and Bishops , and other Lords any thing that ●ounded in derogation of the honourable estate of the K. and of his royall Majesty , but that they were and are to him good and lawfull Lieges , and that for such our Lord the King may hold and repute them , and may faithfully put his trust in them in perill of his life , and by the Oath which he● had made as before said . And moreover the said Earle of Northamberland humbly beseeched the Lords , and Earles and Commoners , that they will beseech our Lord the King of his grace towards him concerning the fine and ransome , and if at any time he doe any thing against our Lord the King other then liegeancy : that they make no prayer , nor request for him in whatsoever ensueth thereon , but that they be altogether against him . And also the same Friday it was adjudged by the King and the Lords in Parliament , that leave of Battaile be made by the said Mr. Henry & Mr. Thomas , which are holden to be guilty of Treason , and that as well for themselves as for others which shall bee in their company at the time of the said licence : And those to whom the King had granted favour and pardon , the King will that they stand firmely in their force and vertue . Ex rotulo Parliamenti Anno 31. H. 6. N. 26. ITem the Friday the 15. of February it was opened , and declared to the Lords Spirituall and Temporall being in the Parliament chamber , by the Counsell of the Duke of Yorke , that whereas Thomas Thorpe the monday the first day of August , in the raigne of Henry the sixt 30. cam● to the place of the Bishop of Durham , and then and t●ere tooke and bore away certaine goods and ●attle of the same Dukes against his will and licence , and thereupon the said Duke came and tooke an action by Bill in Mich : Terme last past , against the said Thomas in the Court of Exchequer according to the Priviledge , for so much as the said Thomas was one of the Court , to which Bill the said Thomas willingly appeared , and had divers dayes to imparle at his request and desire : and to the said Bill and action pleaded not guilty , whereupon there was awarded in the said Exchequer a venire facias to the Sheriffe of Middlesex returnaeble in the said Exchequer , and thereby the Iury that passed betweene the Duke and the said Thomas , it was found that the said Thomas was guilty of the said trespasse contained in the said Bill , and the same Iury assessed the dammages to the said Duke , of the said trespasse to a 1000. l. and for his costs 10. l. And thereupon Iudgement was given in the said Exchequer , and the said Thomas ac●●rding to the ●ourse of the Law was committed to the Fleete for the fine belonging to the King in that behalfe . And thereupon it was prayed humbly on the behalfe of the said Duke : that it should like their good Lordships , considering that the said Trespasse was done and committed by the said Thomas , since the beginning of the present Parliament : And also the said Bill and action were taken and scanned , and by processe of Law Iudgement given thereupon against the said Thomas in time of vacation of the said Parliament , and not in Parliament-time , and also that if the said Thomas should bee relieved by priviledge of Parliament , ere the time that the said Duke bee satisfied of his said dammages and costs : the said Duke should bee without remedy in that behalfe , That the said Thomas according to the Law , bee kept in ward according to the time , that he have fully satisfied and contented the said Duke of his dammages and costs ; the said Lords Spirituall and Temporall , not intending to impeach or hurt the liberties and priviledges of them , that were come for the Commons of this Land in this pr●sent Parliament , but equally af●er the course of the Law to minister Iustice , and to have knowledge what the Law will weigh in that behalfe opened , and declared to the Iudges the premisses , and asked of them whether the said Thomas ought to be delivered from prison by force and vertue of the priviledges of Parliament or no . To the which Question the chiefe Iustice in the name of all the Iustices after some Communication and mature deliberation had among them , answered and said , that they ought not to answer to that question , for it hath not beene used aforetime that the Iudges should in any wise determine the Priviledges of this High Court of Parliament , for it is so high and mighty in his nature , that it may make Law , and that which is Law , it may make no Law : and the determination and knowledge of that priviledge belongs to the Lords of Parliament , and not to the Iudges . But as for the Declaration of proceedings in the lower Courts in such cases as Writs of Supersedias of priviledge of Parliament , to bee brought and delivered to the said chiefe Iustice , hee said there be many and divers Supersedeas of priviledge of Parliament brought into the Courts , but there is no generall Supersedias brought to surcease all processe , but if there should bee , it should seeme that this high Court of Parliament that ministreth all Iustice should let the proces of the common Law . and so it should put off the party complaynant without remedy , for so much as actions of common law be not determined in this high Court of Parliament , and if any person that is a member of this high Court of Parliament bee arrested in such cases as be not for felony or Treason , or security of the peace , or for condemnation had before a Parliament , it is used that all such persons should be released of all such arrests , and make an Attourney , so that they may have their freedome , and liberty freely to attend the Parliament . After which answer and declaration it was throughly agreed , assented and concluded by the Lords Spirituall and Temporall ; that the said Thomas according to the Law , should remaine still in prison for the causes above said the priviledge of Parliament , or that the said Thomas was Speaker of the said Parliament notwithstanding , and that the Premisses should be opened , and declared to them that were common for the Commons of this Land , and they should bee charged and commanded in the Kings name , that they with good hast and speed proceed to the Election of another Speaker . The which Premisses for as much as they were matters in Law , by the commandement of the Lords were opened , and declared to the Commons by the mouth of Walter Moyle one of the Serjeants at Law in the presence of the Bishop of Elie , in the Kings name , that they should proceed to the Election of another Speaker , with all godly hast and speed , so that the matter for which the K. called this Parliament , tooke good and effectuall conclusion and end . ITem 16. die Febr. tunc prox . sequenti praefati Communes ; & quidam de sociis suis declaraverūt dominis spiritualibus & tēporalibus in presenti Parliamento , quòd ipsi per mandatum ex parte domini Regis pridie sibi injunct . cum omni diligentia exequentes eligerunt loco praefat. Thom. Thorp , Thom. Carleton militem prolocutorem suum humillimè deprecando quatenus praefatus dominus Rex hujusmodi electionem vellet acceptare . Qu●bus per domi●um Cancellarium Angliae de mandato dicti Domini Regis , & advisamento consilii extitit respons . quod quidem dominus Rex de electione praesenti Thom. Carleton se bene contentavit injungendo eis quatenus ad expeditionem negotiorum Parliamenti praedicti cum omni diligentia proced●rent , Iudgements upon Writs of error in PARLIAMENT . IF erroneous Iudgements bee given in the Kings Bench : or in the Exchequer Chamber upon the Statute of 27. Eliz. cap. 18. the party may have his Writ of ●r●o● retureable in Parliament , but not upon judgement given in the Common Pleas untill the same bee ●ever●ed or affirmed in the Kings Bench , as it was answered in Parliament under ●dward the third , in the case of the Bishop of Norwich . Vpon the Writ of Er●or the Lord chiefe Iustice of the Kings Bench is to bring in the Record , and a ●ra●script of it into the Parliament , and the●e leaveth the Transcript ●ut car●●e●h the Record b●ck and there●p●n the Er●ou●s bei●g assigned : or as some Examples are befo●e the Assignamus of the Errors . order is to bee given that a Scire facias be awarded against the Defendant , upon whose appea●anc & examination of the Errors by the Lords , the Iudgement is either affirmed or reversed . AFter the Record thus brought in , Clericus Parlïamenti habet inde Custoaiam & per duos tantum & non per Communitatem assignabitur Senescallus , qui cum Dominis spiritualibus ac temporalibus per con●ilium Justiciariorum procedat ad err●rem corrigendum . In which words it is observed ; that the Lords have power to make a Delegation of their Iurisdiction to a person chosen out of themselves , as a Steward to judge for them , as also they did in their proceedings against Gomemz , and Weston under Richard the second , when they ap●ointed the Lord Scroope for Steward of the Parliament to arraig●e the Offenders , but this rests at their pleas●re whether they will judge themselves together , or so appoint a Steward . MEmorandum quod Christopherus Wray miles capital . Iusticiarius de Banco Regis se●u adduxi● in ●ar . in camera parl inter duos bre . de errore & billa de regina indors . ac rotulat In quibus continebantur placita & processus in quibus suppon●bature●ror , & ib. reliquit transcript totius recordi ci● Cler. Parl. & super hoc venit Richardus Herbert . Ioh. Awbr●y , Willielmus filiam & ●imon Brow●e in propriis personis suis in Parliamento , & statim dixerunt quod in recordo & processu praedict. in redditione Iudic●i praedict. manifestè est erratum in hoc quo● postquam Iudicium praedict. in loquela praedict versus praefat. Thom. Gomiel redit . fuit & antequam praedict. Iohannes . Hunt prosecutus fuit & impetravit praedict. primum breve descire facias versus praefat. Thom. Ric. Herbert & caeteros praedicto : manucaptores praedict. Thom. Gomiel nullum breve de capias ad satisfaciendum pro debito & damnis , praedict. per praefat. Iohannem Hunt. in Parliamento praedict. prosequendo . Et reternat . fuit versus praefat. Thom Gomiel ubi per consuetudinem Curiae dictae Dominae Reginae coram ipsa Regina à tempore contrarii memoria hominum non existit in eadem usitat . & approbat . brev. de Cap. ad satisfaciendum versus eundem Thom. Gomiel , pro debito & damnis praedict. Parl. praedict. prosequi & retornari debet antequam aliquid brev. de sci fac . versus manucaptores pr●d●ct . in loquela illa impetr●nt . seu prosequi debe et licet consue●udo , & forum captionum r●cognitionum in curia praedict. usi fuerunt in forma praedict. viz. si contigerit eundem Thomam Gomiel in Parliamento praedict. convinci , tunc iisdem manucaptores concesserunt & quilibet eorum per se concessit tam praedict debitum quam omnia damna & castag . &c. praefat. Ioh. Hunt. in ea parte adjudicentur de Terris & catallis & eorum cuislibet fieri & ad opus praedict. Iohannis Hunt , levari si contigerit praedict. Thom. Gomiel debitum & damnae illa praefat. Iohannis Hunt minime solvere aut se prisonae Marescall . Dominae Reginae coram ipsa Regina ea occasione non reddere &c. Et petiere iidem Rich. Herbert & alii praedict. quod Iudicium praedict. & processus super bre . de scire fac . prosecut . in curia Dominae Reginae coram ipsa Regina revocetur adnulletur . & peni●us pro nullo habeatur . Et super hoc Domini per consensum Iustitiariorum post longam & maturam deliberationem cum consensu adjudicaverunt quod judicium praedict. & processus super bre . de scire fac . prosecut . in Curia dict. domin . Reginae coram ipsa Domina Regina revocetur , adnulletur & penitus pro nullo habeatur . CHAP. V. Bills passed and Judgements given without assent of the Lords Spirituall . VNder Edward the third a Petition of the Commons was thus . ITem wee are not willing to suffer that payment be made to Cardinalls for their juornying into France , for to treat out of the Realme of England . THe answer is , as to the dispences of Cardinalls ; it seemeth ●o all the Baronage and other sages of the Kings Councell , that the Commons demanded reason : and for that they are agreed that it shall be so . The like is there in the two Petitions of the Commons against the Clergy , carrying money to Rome , and Cardinall having benifices here , divers Ordinances against the Church of Rome are agreed by the K. the Lay , Peers , & Commons , but all the Prelates made Protestation of not assenting or doing what may be , or turne in prejudice of their Estate or Dignity . The power and direction for Iustices of the peace is ordained at the complaint of the Commons by the King , by the assent of the Lords Temporall : And so also divers times without mention of the Lords Spirituall , who indeed under Edward the 3 protested that they had not to do with matters of keeping the peace . THe Commons exhibite a Petition against Procurations from Rome , & benefices obtained by Letters thence , &c. It is ordained & established by the K. by the advise and ass●nt of the Lords Temporall , that no Benefice is to be had here , but by guilt from the Kings Subjects , &c. and if that any do contrary to this Act , he should incurre the danger of a praemunire given by the Statute of 27 E. 3. A Petition in these words . Item , that the Appeales pers●ites , accusations , Iudgements had and rendered , &c. should be good , notwithstanding the Lords Spirituall and the procurato●s of the Lords Spirituall absente● themselvs out of Parliament , in time of the said Iudgements rendered for salvation of their e●tate : As it is contained in a Protestation , by which the Lor●s Spirituall and Procurators were in this present Parliament , &c. The King granteth it , And the Protestation of the Clergy is entered as , followeth . For as much as certaine matters were moved in this present Parliament , touching openly the crime of the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury , and the other Prelates of his Province , who made Protestation in the forme and words which followes . IN Dei Nomine , Amen , Cum de Jure & consuetudine regni Angl. ad Archiep. Canterbur . qui pro tempore fuerit , nec non caeteros suos suffragandes , Confratres & Coeptis . Abbates & Priores , aliosque Prelatos , quoscunque per Baroniam de domino Rege tenentes pertinet in Parlimentum Regis quibuscunque ut pares regni praedicti personaliter interesse ibidemque de regni negotiis & aliis ibi tractare consuetis , cum caeteris dicti regni paribus & aliis consulere , ordinare statuere & definire ac caetera facere quae Parliamenti . Tempore ibid. incendet . faciend . in quibus omnibus & singulis nos Willielmus Cant. Archiepiscopus totius Angl. Primas & Angl. Sedis Legatus , pro nobis nostrisque Suffraganeis , Coep . & confratribus , nec non Abbatibus , Prioribus & Prelatis , omnibus supradictis potestat . & eorum quilibet potestatur qui per se , vel procuratorem si fuerit modo presens & publicè & expresse quod intendimus & intendi volumus , ac vult eorum quilibet in hoc presenti Parliamento & aliis ut pares regni praedicti more solito interesse considerare tractare , ordinare , statuere , & definire , ac caetera exercere cum caeteris jus interessendi habentibus eisdem statu & ordine Juris ; & eorum cuilibet in omnibus semper salvum verum , quia in praesenti Parliamento agitur de nonnullis materiis , in quibus non licet nobis alicui eorum juxta sacrorum Canonum instituta , quomodo libet personaliter interesse ; eo propter pro nobis & eorum quolibet protestamus , & eorum quilibet hic presens etiam protestatur quod non intendimus , nec volumus sicuti de Jure non possumus nec debemus intendi , nec vult aliquis eorundem in praesenti Parliamento , dum de hujusmodi materiis agitur vel agetur , quomodo libet interesse , sed nos & eorum quemlibet in ea parte penitus absentare in re paritatis nostrae , & cujuslibet eorum interessend . in dicto Parliamento , quoad omnia & singula ibidem exercenda juris , & eorum quilibet Statu & ordine in omnibus semper salvo . Ad hoc insuper protestamur , & eorum quilibet protestatur quod propter hujusmodi absentiam non intendimus , nec volumus , nec eorum aliquis intendit , nec vult quod habet processus , & habend . in praesenti Parliamento , super materiis antedictis . In quibus nec possumus , nec debemus , & permittitur interesse quantum ad nos & queml●bet eorum attinet futuris temporibus , quomodo libet impugnentur infirmentur seu etiam revocentur . Which Protestation read in full Parliament by the commandement of the King , and Assent of the Lords Temporall and Commons , In like manner make Protestation the Bishop of Duresme and Carlisle , mutatis mutandis . This was upon the occ●sion of the appeale of Treason in the same Parliament commenced by Thomas Duke of Gl●ucester , and others , against Alexander Arch-Bishop of Yorke , Robert de Vere , Duke of Ireland and others . But although they thus absented themselves , they made no proxy at this time to assent in their room ; as afterwards they agreed to do in cases of Iudgement of death . But the first use of such proxies is in the 21 o●Rich . the 2. neither at all are such proxies , or assent of the Bishops . For under H. 5. the Earle of Salisbury by Petition in the nature of a Writ of Error , shewed that the Attai●der of John the late Earle , father to the P●titioner in the second of H. the 4 might now be reversed , and amongst the errors assigned , one was , that he had been adjudged sans assent in Parliament , but it was in Parliament now adjudged that it was no error . The Arch-bishops of Cant. and Yorke , for themselvs & their Clergy make Protestation not to consent to any Statute made in this Parliament , Quatenus ea in restrictione potestatis Apostolicae aut in eversione Ecclesiae dignitatis tendere dignoscuntur , which at their request was inrolled in Parliament , yet an Act passed at that Time and is publique against the Popes giving of Benefices by way of provision in England . In the beginning of Queene Elizabeths raigne , when divers Acts passed touching matters of the Church , as Service and Sacraments ▪ and Church-possessions , &c. the Bils passed , Dissentientibus , All the Bishops as it is especially entered in the Iournals , with particular enumeration of all their names . Whereunto may be added that assertion of the Iudges in that deliberation had under Henry the eight , touching the power Royall in the Church , as the words were reported , That our Lord the King may well enough hold the Parliament by himselfe and all his temporall Lords , without the spirituall Lords , &c , CHAP. VI . Their appointing Judges out of themselves for examination of Judgements and delayes of other Courts . THis is given them by a Statute of Edward the third , in these words . Likewise for that many mischiefes are come , &c. That divers places , as well in the Chancery as the Kings Bench , Common pleas & the Exchequer , the Iustices assigned , and other Iustices to heare and determine the Iudgements , wherein have been delayes sometimes by difficulty , somtimes by divers opinions of the Iudges , and sometimes by other occasions , it is assented , established and agreed , that of the Commons before said , in every Parliament there be one Prelate , two Earles , and two Barons that shall have Commission and power of the King . Which priviledge is now taken away from the Prelacy , by Act of Parliament , Anno 17. Car. ) to heare by Petition to them delivered , the plaints of all those which complaine of such delayes , or grievances done to them , and that they have power to cause to come before them at Westminster or in any other places where the parliament shall be holden , and the Courts of records and processes of such Iudgements as are delayed ; and shall cause to come before them the same Iustices , who shall be there present to heare the cause , and their reason also heard by good advice of them ; the Chancellor , three Iustices of one Bench , and of the other , and others of the Kings Councell . And in the same Parliament accordingly , the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury , the Earles of Arundell and Huntington , and the Lord Woake , and the Lord Basset were assigned to the same purpose , and although the Iustices , Chancellor , Treasurer , Privy Seale , and others , had before taken Oath , &c. Yet it was ordained that those of the Baronage assigned , shall give them a new Oath , and increase and diminish the Ministers of Iustice , as they shall see Cause . CHAP. VII . Their Tenants of ancient tenancies , being discharged of paying , the charges of Knights of the shire . THe Commons exhibite a Petition , that whereas the Tennants of the Lords that did hold by Barony , and summons to the Parliament might not be discharged of paying towards the expences of Knights , &c. That the King would declare the certainty of it . But the answer of it is on●y , As at other times , &c. A like petition and answer is afterwards under the same King in a petition , touching the same thing , under Richard the 2 , it is supposed that all ought to pay , but those which come in Parliament by summons , by writ , and do stay there at their own charges , &c. In a Petition afterwards , it is supposed that the Tennants of such lands as were immediatly held of the Lords of the Parliament , contributed not to those expences but it is complained against , and the answer is only , Let it be as at other times , and if that any found himself agrieved he should have remedy in the Chancery , yet by a Statute which is not in the Rols of three yeares before , the Tenants of the Lords themselves shall pay for such lands , as of late times they have purchased before being contributary . To this belongs that in Fitzherbert , The villaines of Lords , which come to Parliament shall not be therefore contributary to the expences of the Earles , which come to Parliament . And to this purpose the Lords may by Letters in their own names command the Sheriffe that he distraine not their villaines . THE SECOND kind of their Priviledges . Priuiledges , or speciall Rights , that concerne the Barons that have place in Parliament , as they are every one single in their private estates . CHAP. I. Touching the Oath and Protestation upon Honour . ALL Oaths being either promissory or assentatory , and the first being , that which binds to a future performance of Trust . The second , that which is taken for discovery of a past or present truth . The first kind , they as occasion requir'd used in taking the oath of all the Barons for the maintenance of the great Charter , and the like was under King John and H. 3 as also swearing of the Lords in Parliamēt in the time of H. the 6. that they should not take parts in the great Controversie between the Earle Marshall , and the Earle of Warwick , and the oaths of divers Lords appointed for the keeping of the Parliament in 8 & 11 H. 4 , where yet the Prince was not sworn , being one of those appointed for the keeping of the ordinances . Because of the highnesse and excellency of his honorable person ; As the words are in the Roll , so under H. the 7. the Lords Spirituall and Temporal swoare in the Parliament to the Article of taking care for the preserving of the peace , and under H the 8. to the Bill of Succession ; but under Richard the second , the Arch-bishop of Canterbury challenged , that neither he nor his predecessors were compellable to any oath , but to the K. and this kind of Oath is frequently taken by such Barons as undertake the great Offices of the Kingdome , and they are all liable to the like by their tenures , by fealty and by Statutes of the Oath of Allegeance , but of these kinds of Oaths for the Supremacy they are discharged by the first Statute that gives it ; and in the case of Essoynes wherein by the ancient Law , the Essoiner was to sweare that the party Essoined should appeare at a certain day , all Barons and B●ronesses were excepted from the Oath , and instead of the Oath they put in surety , Ratio vero diversitatis ( saith Bracton ) talis esse poterit ut videtur quod ita nobiles & dignae personae in warrantizatione Essonii non per se jurabant sed per procuratores ( scilicet ) plegios suos . Assentary Oaths are in Cases of tryall by 12 or 24 witnesses defendants , which proceed by Bill and Answer . Plaintiff●s examined in actions of debt brought upon arrerages of accompt in cases of tryall by 12 they are discharged of the Oath that is in cases of tryall of their Peeres , in which they answer guilty or not guilty , only upon honour for in other tryals they have no part , but are exempted from being impanelled in Juries , Nisi eorum Sacramentum adeo sit necessarium quod sine illis veritas inquiri non possit , and thence was it that some Barons under Edward the first of the Marches of Wales refused to swear● before the Iustices of Oyer and Terminer upon an Enquiry to be made by them , and others of certaine outrages committed by Cilbert of Clare , Earle of Gloucester , against Humphrey of Bohun Earle of Hereford and Sussex ; those Barons were Jo●n de Hastings , John Fitz Raynold , Roger de Mortimer , Theobald of Weldon , John Troger , and ●efferey of Camvill , to whom dictum est ( as the Ro● saith ) ex parte Regis quod pro statu & ●ure Regis , & pro conservatione dignitatis Coron● & pacis sua apponit manum ad librum , ad faciendum id quod eis ex parte injungetur qui omnes unanimiter responderent , quod ipsi vel eorum antecessores hactenus in hujusmodi casu , ad praestandum Sacramentum aliquid coacti fuerunt . And afterwards the Oath being offered them , they answered every one by themselves , quod nihil inde facerent sine consideratione parium suorum . Barons being witnesses in Cases of witnesses , Examples are , that they give in their Testimonies only upon Honour . IN the Courts of the Delegates in the 3 of E. 6 , in the proceedings against Gardiner Bishop of Winchester , upon a speciall Commission from the King , the then L. Chancellor , and Marquesse of Northum . and the Earle of Wiltsh . and Bedfora , are examined only upon their honor or somtime upon alleageance or fidelity to God & the K. and this was upon the speciall priviledg of such persons , for both by the Civill Laws and Common , no testimony is taken regularly but upon Oath . In Chancery in a Case between Jeffery and Jeffery , and in another between Blighton and Dantrey , Thomas Lord Buckehurst , under Queen Elizabeth ; delivers his testimony only upon honour . In the Court of Chivalery under Rich. the 2 , in the great Case between Sir Rich. Scroope appellant , and Sir Robert Gravenor defendant , touching matter of Armes , the Attestations taken by Commission from John of Gaunt , the Earle of Darby , the E. of Northumberland , the Duke of Yorke , and the Earle of Arundell , are for ought appeares without oath ; for whereas others are sworne the Entry of their deposition is : ( Pray and requests according to the right of Armes by the procurator of Master Rich. Scroope , to testifie and say , &c. ) And amongst others the Earle of Devonshire was examined by Commission , by Iohn Kentwood , who in the returne of his Commission and the depositions certifies the Court , that hee had swore all the witnesses there being none of the Nobility but only the Earle in his returne , who was not sworne , but spake in the loyalty of his Chivalery . But in the multitude of witnesses of this cause , divers Barons are sworn as the Lord Poynings , the Lord Scales , the Lord Gray , the Lord Ruthen , the Lord Basset . To every of which names in the attestations is added ( Sworn and Examined ) And agreeable hereunto is the examination in the Case of Alice Pierce , in the beginning of Rich. the 2. Barons answering to Bils as Defendants . For Barons answering in Chancery as Defendants , are divers presidents of such their answers in the times of H. the 7 , and Henry the eight : but there are none of that time that cleeres it whether they were sworne or no ; for the answers of that time , as also of the time following , till about the middle of Elizabeth or later , are frequently filed without any Jurat . to them . BVt under Queene Mary , in a suit by William Armer against Thomas Lord Wentworth , touching the Inheritance of Copy-holders in Stepney , the defendant presents in his answer with Master Sackfords hand to it , who was his Councell . ( And on the upper part of his answer wher Iurat . is sometimes but rarely in that Age written ) These words are found , this answer is made by councell and the Defendant not sworne by order of Court . Then in Queene Elizabeths time the Lord Dacres being Plaintiffe against the Lord Buckhurst , and Parker , and Manwood , these two defendants are sworne , but not the Lord Buckhurst . And afterwards the Lord Buckhursts answer is inscribed per traditionem Comitissae super honorem suum . So the Countesse of Northumberland : In virtute honoris sui agnovit responsionem suam esse veram : as the entry is upon her answer at that time . And in the Countesse of Rutlands case where she with Sir George Shaworth were Defendants about the later end of Queene Elizabeth , The Dedimus potestatem was to answer upon his Oath super Evangelia , as also a Dedimus towards the end of Queene Elizabeth , was directed to Roger Bromeley , and Richard upon the bill of complaint of one Brooke against George Earle of Huntington to take his Oath super honorem , &c. About which time also the Lord Eure put in his answer super honorem only to the bill of John Barnes and Robert Talbois . In other Courts as the Starr-chamber , and Court of Wards , it was questioned in Queene Elizabeths time whether Barons being Defendants , should put in their answers upon Oath , and in the Court of Wards an Order was made in the Lord Mountagues case , that they should and that so the course should be henceforth constant . The like course hath beene held of late in the Starre-chamber , as also in the Eccl●siasticall proceedings , and about the end of Queen Elizabeths time in Chancery , also the Lord Wharton by a compulsory order answered there upon Oath . And within these few dayes the Earle of Shrewsbury was ordered to answer upon Oath to one Revell being plaintife there , and divers Noble men have beene sworne to their answers in Chancery since the beginning of the King , and some in Queene Elizabeths time also , neither is the time of Queene Mary and Edward the sixt wholy without example , but the summe of all seemes this that according to the clayme of the Barons in 20. E. 1. they were not anciently till about the end of Queene Elizabeth , or the time of King James , and of our present Soveraigne compellable to sweare to their answers , for the first compulsory order falls in the 33. of Eliz. in the Court of Wards , but that some of them taking no advantage of their priviledges in this case , voluntarily tooke the Oath , and others standing upon their ancient right , put it in onely upon honour , as also we see in that case of Gravenor and Scroope , and Alice Pierce under Richard the first , for it were not a speciall Priviledge it will fall out , that in all the Examples where they were not sworne , the Iudges committed great Injustice in receiving their answers , and depositions without oath , if they had not beene subject by compulsion to an o●th , no otherwise then if a Iudge of the Common Law should admit evidence given to a Iury , or take a verdict without Oath which were not excusable . And a few examples of giving in their answer without Oath , upon this reason are of great weight against many that shewed that they were voluntary sworne , and these orders which were compulsory , are of so late time , and of so weak power , that they cannot at all take any right from the Baronage which was before setled in them . Examined as Plaintifs in actions of debt upon arrerages of accompts . BY the Statute of 5. Henry 4. cap. 8. In actions of debt upon Arrerages of accounts , the Iudges have power to examine the Attourney of the Plaintife , or whom they please , & this examination was meant , and hath beene practised upon Oath , yet in action brought by the Lady of Abergavenny , being a Baronesse against another in the time of Henry the sixt : when the Counsell of the Defendant desired that the plaintife might be examined , Cockanie the Iustice said that they should not doe well to make her being a Baronesse , come to be examined . And how ever the Statute were generall for high as well as low ( as the words of the bookes are ) yet hee saith the Law will bee otherwise , and different betweene another common person . Of the forme that was used in swearing of spirituall and Temporall Barons . IN the forme of swearing the promissory Oath , a difference hath been amongst the Barons of Parliament , the Temporall Barons under Henry the 7. sweare with their hand upon the Booke , the Spirituall with their hand upon their breast , first the one tactis the other vis●s Evangeliis : Anciently this Oath was taken by the Lords in the house upon the Arch-Bishops crosse . To this day the Spirituall Lords have challenged it , & sometimes have used to sweare visis onely as a thing to be done by the priviledge of the Church . But there is the Testimony that shewes , that all the Bishops in a provinciall Synode did sweare here their Iuramentum corporale which is tactis & howsoever if it be a priviledge of Nobility in some other States or of Gentry to depose by writing without a corporall oath , as in Bohemia , Austria Bavier &c. yet there is no sufficient certainty , with us for a● establisht difference of forme in swearing . CHAP. II. Tryall by Peeres . IN all cases of Treason or felony , or misprision of either of these offences , a Temporall Lord of Parliament is to bee tryed only by his Peeres , if arraigned by inditement per Judicium parium suorum , or of 12. or more Temporall Barons of Parliament . This holds as well in all cases made Treason or Felony by Statute , as received anciently to be so by the Common Law , as Iustice Stamford expressely affirmeth , although usually in Statutes which make Treason or Felony a speciall clause bee inserted for Peeres to be tryed by their Peeres , as also to the now tryall where perhaps more need was of such a clause , upon the Statute of remainder made for tryall of offences committed by the English in Scotland ; It is added that if the Offender bee a Peere of the Realme , then his tryall shall bee by his Peeres ; And this is cleere for all Temporall Barons and their Ladies ; but it hath beene doubted whether the same Law bee in case of tryall of spirituall Barons or no , and without doubt one speciall Argument among others hath beene made from the name of Peeres some concluding thus : Spirituall Barons are no Peeres : therefore not to be tryed by their Peeres , others for the other part thus , Spirituall Barons are Peers therefore to be tryed by their Peeres , but of these two Arguments , the first is false in matter , the second in forme . For the first it is true and plaine , that Spirituall Lords have beene Peeres , and of the antecedent false : the Testimonies justifying them to have beene , so are very frequent in the Bish : of Winchesters case , who departed from the Parliament at Salisbury , about the beginning of Edward the third : and was questioned for it afterwards in the Kings Bench , hee pleaded to the Declaration : Quod ipse est unus ê paribus Regni & Praelatus &c. and in that short disputation of the case which is lest in the the yeare bookes , hee is supposed cleerely both by the Court and Councell to bee a Peere . So afterwards under the same King , in a Writ of Wards brought against the Bishop of London , he pleaded to issue and the Defendant could not have day of grace , for he said as the words of the booke are ) that a Bishop is a Peere of the Land . Et haec erat causa &c. And in a like case upon an Action of trespasse against the Abbot of Abyndon who was one of the Lords Spirituall , day of Grace was denyed against him , because he was Peere de la terre . So expressely upon the Question of having a Knight returned into a Jury where a Bishop was Defendant in a quare impedit , the rule of the Court was that it ought to bee so , because the Bishop was a Peere of the Realme . So the Iudgement given against the Bishop of Norwich in the time of Richard the second , hee is in the roll expressely allowed to bee a Peere , for hee had tooke eeceptions that some things had passed against him without assent or knowledge of his Peeres of the Realme . To which exception the answer was , It behooves you not at all to touch your Prelate of onely certaine misprisisions , which you as a Souldier of the King , &c. have done and committed , &c. Here is to be avoided that challenge of Stafford , Arch-Bishop of Canterbury under Edward the third , when upon his being excluded the Parliament , he thus challenged his place . Ego tanquam major par Regni post Regem vocem habeus Jure Ecclesiae mea tantum vendico & ideo ingressum in Parliamento peto , the same is justified by the Clergy touching their Ius paritatis before recited at large and entered in the Parliament roll . And in the Assignement of the Errours under Henry the fifth , for the reversall of the Attayndor of the Earle of Salisbury , one errour is assigned that Iudgement was given without assents of the Prelates which were Peeres in Parliament , and that although that were adjudged to bee no errour , yet it hath been allowed cleerely in the roll , and the Petition that they were Peeres . So in an Act of Parliament under the same King , the Bishops and Arch-Bishops , and Arch-Bishops of Ireland , are called Peers of that Kingdome , and divers other passages occurre touching this name of Prelate , neither could any scruple bee further made of it , untill the passing of an Act of this Parliament . 17. Car. 1641. But as this is cleere that they were Peeres , so also it is cleere that they were not by the lay to bee tryed , as Temporall Barons by their Peeres , and the conclusion of the contrary drawn ( as before ) out of that that they have been Peers , is wholy without consequence , this having been a point of the common Law , as it is distinguished from Acts of Parliament , which falls out generally to bee onely the knowne and received custome within the Kingdome , if the practise and custome within the Kingdome be therein observed , the point of Law may bee soone resolved . In the practises and customes divers Bishops are found to have beene arraigned , and legally tryed upon Capitall offences , yet all that have beene so , have had their Triall onely by common Iuries , and whether by Statute any alteration bee of this common Law shall presently be examined , there being many Bishops now to be tryed . THat practise and Custome appeareth in particular examples found from the time of Edward the second to the age next before us thus collected ; Adam Bishop of Hereford under Edward the second , was indicted of divers Felonies , and of joyning with Roger Mortimer , hee is arraigned in the Kings Bench : and upon question how hee will be tryed , he saith : Quòd ipse est Episcopus Heref. ad voluntatem Dei , & summi Pontificis , & quòd materia praedicta Articulorum sibi imposit . adeò ardua est quod ipse non debet in Curia sic super praedictis sibi impositis respondere , nec inde responders potest absque offensu divino & sanctae Ecclesiae : Hereupon day is given over , and then the Inditement is brought into the Parliament , whereupon his arraignment , hee give● the like answer , and Walter Arch-Bishop of Canterbury petit eum , & ei liberatur , and this is commanded that hee have him ready at a certaine day in the Kings Bench . Et praeceptum est vicecomiti Hereford . quòd venire faciat coram Domino Rege tot & tales &c. ad inquirend. . prout moris est &c. And a common Iury is returned which finds the Bishop guilty , whereupon hee is committed to the Arch-Bishop and convict , and his Lands and goods are seised into the KINGS hands . Here was the Bishop tryed by a common Iury , although it appear●s both in the Record , and in the History of that time , that the whole Clergy earnestly indeavou●ed to have kept him from conviction , but no pretence of any right of Tryall by Peeres is once mentioned in this behalfe , though other complaints are full enough expressed against the whol● proceedings . VNder Edward the third Iohn de Isle brother to Thomas Hen , Bishop of Ely , was indi●ed in Huntingtonshire ; that he with divers others per assensum , & procurationem Episcop . 28. E. 3. die Lunae post festam Sancti Iacobi , burnt the house of the Lady Wake at Colne , by Sommersham , & quòd praedictus Thomas Episcopus sciens praedictam combustionem per praedict. servientes suos esse factam dictos servientes apud Somersham postea receptavit , &c. And also it was found before the Sheriffe and Coroner that 29 Edward the third , the Bishop was guilty de assensu of the murther of one William Holme , slaine by Ralph Carelesse and Walter Ripton called little Watt , upon malice conceived against Holme , because hee followed the suit of the Lady Wake , the principalls were attainted by Outlary , the Bishop was arraigned , and upon question how hee would bee tried dicebat quòd ille est membrum Dom. Papae , & quòd ipse ab ordinario suo viz. venerabili patre Domino Simono Archiepiscopo Canterburi . Angli● primat . respondere non potest . Et super hoc idem Archiepiscopus prasens hic in Curia petit , quòd dictus Episcopus Eliensis de feloniis pr●dict . sibi impositis hic coram laico Iudice , non cogatur respondere , & ut sciatur inde rei veritas per inquisitionem patriae &c. praecept est vicecomiti Huntingdon , quòd venire faciat coram Dom rege in Octab : sancti Mich. &c. ubicunque &c. 24 , de Iust. de Somersham & idem dies datus est Episc , &c. Ad quem diem coram Domino rege venit praedict. Episc in propria persona & similitèr Iurat . veniunt qui elect● , tricati , jurati & onerati , si idem Episc de assensu pr●dictorum Rand. & Walter . & de recept. . eorundem sit culpabilis , nec non dicunt super sacramentum suum quod idem Episc est in nullo culpabilis , sed dicunt quod idem Episc. post feloniam receptavit ip●os apud Somersham , sciens ipsos feloniam fecisse . Ideo inquiratur de bonis , catallis , Terris & tenementis &c. Et super hoc praedictus Archiepisc . presens in curia petit ipsum tanquam membrum Ecclesiae sibi liberari , & ei liberatur oustodiend . prout decet , and Writs were sent out to the Sherifes of all Shires where hee had goods or Lands to certifie them for the Kings benefit , and in this Record it is observable that the Iurors were tried , which proves , that the Bishop had his challenges to them at his tryall . About the beginning of Henry the fourth , Thomas Merke Bishop of Carlisle was indited of Treason before Thomas Earle of Warwick , and other Iustices of Oyer and Terminer in Middlesex , the Bishop standing before committed to the Tower for the same offence . Et hoc Justiciar . praedict. recognit . mandatum est constabulario Turris praedict. vel ejus locum tenenti quod corpus ejusdem Episcop . habeant , vel alter eorum habeat coram praefatis Iusticiariis apud Turrim praedictam die Mercurii ex tunc proximo sequente ad respondendum Domino Regi de proditionibus &c. And the precept est vicecomiti London , quod tunc venire faciat coram praefat. Iusticiar . apud Turrim praedict. tam Aldermannos & cives quam alios probos homines de vicineto Warder . praedict. 1. Baynards Castle & Dougate qui praefat. Episc. nulla affinitate attingunt ad faciendam tunc ibidem deliberationem de dicto Episcopo prout moris est secundum legem Regni Angliae ad quem diem & locum , the Bishop is brought before them , and a Writ comes from the King to the said Iustices reciting that licet in statuto apud Westminsterium nuper edito inter caetera continetur quòd nullus Archiepiscopus , nec Episcopus coram Iusticiar . nostris occasione alicujus criminis impetatur absque speciali praecepto nostro quousque aliud remedium inde foret ordinatum de advisamente tamen consilii nostri vobis mandamus quòd si aliqui Archiepiscopi , vel Episcop . coram vobis impetiti vel judicati existunt , tunc ad deliberationem ipsorum procedatis prout de Jure & secundum legem Regni nostri Angliae fore videritis faciendum , statuto praedicto non obstante , I este me ipso apud Westminsterium 28. die Januar. Anno Regni nostri primo . THis Writ being read in the Court , the Bishop was demanded how he would be ●ried , Hee first stands upon the priviledge of the Church , to whom the Iustices reply that the offence was so high , that hee must answer them with protestation of saving the Liberties of the Church , hee pleads not guilty . Et inde de bono & malo ponit se super patriam , inde fiat inde Iurat , hoc instante die &c. The Iury findes him guilty , but the Iustices being not advised of their Iudgement , returne him to prison , the Record was afterward removed in the Kings Bench , and the Bishop renders himselfe to the prison of the Marshallsea ; and then being asked if hee had any thing to shew , why Iudgement should not bee given on him hee pleades his pardon , and it is allowed him . To these presidents a Learned Iudge in Queene Maries Time saith divers were agreeable . Among which are specially to bee accounted those of the Bishop of Rochester in the time of Henry the eight , and of Cramner Arch-Bishop of Canterbury under Queene Mary both tryed by common Iuries : neither is there any example extant from the first memory of a legall tryall of Bishops which is under Edward the second , that testifieth any Tryall by Peeres belonging to a Bishop , and accordingly hitherto it was taken cleerely by that learned Iudge of Queene Marie's time , that no ancient Statute speaking of tryall by Peeres , hath beene put in ure to extend to a Bishop , or Abbot , although they enjoy the name of Lords of the Parliament , for they have ( as the words are ) this name of Bishop or Abbot ratione Officii being not chosen in Parliament in respect of their Nobility , but in respect of their possessions the ancient Baronies annexed to their Dignities according to which there are divers Presidents , whereof one was in the time of H. the 8. where also it is as judiciously & modestly affirmed by a most learned man of this Kingdom that the spirituall Lords enjoy all legall priviledges , as the temporall Barons do saving only this tryall by Peeres . That which may be here objected out of the Statute of the grand Charter wherin every man ought to be tried by his Peeres , id est , Juditium Parium suorum , or out of the Statute of 25. E. 3. by which all treasons are to bee tried by men of the same condition , of which the offender is , may easily be answered ; for both these anceint Statutes are now to be interpreted , as it is clerely taken in continuall practise , and in the books according to the known use of the legall proceedings , and not by literall interpretation of the words , as it is plainly seene in both of them : For all Gentlemen , Esquires , Knights , Batchellors and Bannerets , and at this day Bannerets are accounted Peeres , not only amongst themselves , but also to all other men of the lowest condition which yet cannot be out of the force of the word , only the like appeareth in that non amercientur Comites , vel Barones , nisi per pares suos . And it is shewed in the title of Amerciaments , wherein that which the Statute referres to Peeres is done so by Iudges . And this of Bishops referreth to those Statutes is only to be adjudged according to use and practise , which is the best interpreter of the Statutes and not by the meere Interpretation of the word Peeres . And it is most likely that if any such right had anciently belonged to them , not only they themselves , but the temporall Baronage under H. 6. protesteth by the mouth of Viscount Beaumont for their triall by Peeres , when William de la Poole put himselfe upon the King and not on his Peeres , in such sort as those Bishops put themselves on the Pope , and not upon any legall Triall . But one particular case is here to be added touching this right singled by it selfe , that is , Triall by Peeres upon the third offence against the Statute of Service and Sacraments , under Queen Elizabeth , for the known triall by Peeres , is in cases of treasons or misprisions , or one of them . And triall by Peeres saved to the Baronage in the Statute of new treason of felony hath reference only to the known use of such triall , so that in those new treasons , or felonies , such as for other offences , which were before treason or felony , were to be tried by their Peeres , are likewise ( and none else ) to be tried by their Peeres for new treasons or felonies , and therein the Spirituall Lords are equally excluded . But this of the third offence , against that Statute , is neither treason , felony nor misprision , but a Trespasse , punished only by forfeiture of goods , and perpetuall imprisonment . In which Case this act saith without reference to the use of triall by Peeres , as it is usually expressed in other Statutes , that all and singular Lords of the Parliament for the third offence shall be tried by their Peeres . CHAP. III. Scandala Magnatum . IF any person shall divulg false Tales of any of the Lords of Parliament , by which dissention may bee betwixt the Commons and them , the offender is to be imprisoned untill hee bring forth the Author , but this also is communicated to the grea●er Officers of the Kingdom . CHAP. IV. Proces against them in English Courts , by Bill and Answer . THe course of the Chancery is , and of the late Starcham . was that the Chancellor writes to the Lords of Parliament , and sends out Subpoena's and usually his letters are prayed in the Bils that are exhibited against them . But whether upon a Barons not appearing on a Subpoena , an attachement may be awarded hath been a question , neither do I find it cleerely resolved otherwise than that in later times , the practise is , that it may : but in the time of Queen Elizabeth , in a suit between Tavernor and the Lord Cromwell the defendant disobeying an Injunction in the Chancery , it was questioned what course should bee taken against him , and upon good and deliberate advice taken by the Court , having the opinion of some of the Iudges herein , an attachment was awarded to the Sheriffe of Norfolke and returned so and the Sheriffe had his costs for bringing him . This attachment was awarded in Michaelmas Terme and in Hillary Terme he was returned so , but afterwards there being a Parliament began in May , and ended in June ; the Lord Chancellor complained of it , and it was pretended that it was gotten in Court , in the absence of the Lord Chancellor , and advice was had with Councell , and Iudges , and it appeares not ( as the words of the Iournall booke are ) that by the Common Law or by any presidents of the said Court of Chancery , it was warranted that the person of any Lord having place and voyce in parliament ( in the like case ) in the said Court of Chancery before this time had been attached , and therfore they took it to be against the priviledges of the Lords of this Kingdom , and he was discharged . But for that of attachment upon Subpoenas , and in the course of proceeding against noble men by such Writs or Bils as are used in the Exchequer , Chancery or elsewhere , it is not likely that any certain , Course of ancient Common Law , or proceeding in equity can be found to justifie it at all either against them or any other persons beyond the time of R. 2. under whom John Waltham , Bishop of Salisbury , and Chancellor of England brought in the Writs of Subpoena , & caeteris de causis , in the Chancery and the Exchequer , by example whereof other Courts have used them , against which the Commons passed a Bill in Parliament under Henry the fift , but the King would not give assent to it . The like is found under Henry the sixt , and Henry the fourth . CHAP. V. Their number of Chaplaines qualified . BY the Statute of Pluralities , every Arch-bishop may have eight Chaplaines that may take dispensations for a plurality , but for the plenty of Schollers of good ability in Arts and Learning , it is like the Law in these points will be altered , that they all have and none want convenient benefice . Every Marquesse and Earle , may have 5 Chaplaines . Every Viscount , may have 4 Chaplaines . Every Bishop , may have 6 Chaplaines . Every Temporall Baron , may have 3 Chaplaines . Every Dutchesse , being Widdowes two . Every Marchionesse , being Widdowes two . Every Countesse , being Widdowes two . Every Baronesse , being Widdowes two . CHAP. VI . Their retaining of Strangers . A Baron of the Parliament may keepe six strangers borne out of the Kings obeysance at one time , whereas another man may retaine not above foure . CHAP. VII . Clergy . VNder Edw. the sixt , a priviledge was given to the Nobility , that in all cases where a common person , as a Clerke convict shall and may have benefit of his Clergy , and in all cases where priviledge of Clergy is restrained , or taken away by that Statute except in willfull murder , that is , Burglary , Robbery , by or neere the high-way , stealing of Horses , and Sacriledge ; a Lord of the Parliament and Peere of the Realme should at the first offence , only of common grace without prayer have benefit of the Clergy , and stand as a Clerke convict to make purgation , although hee cannot read . But as Stamford notes in all other cases , in which Clergy is taken away since that Act. A Baron of the Parliament is in the same case as any other common person is ; And by Acts made since , it was taken away generally . 1 For stealing of Horses , 1. E. 6. cap. 33. 2 Robbing in dwelling houses , &c. in or neere the high way , 5. E 6. c. 9. 3 Burning of Houses or Barnes , pety treason , 5 Phil & Mar. c. 4. 4 Stealing of 5 s. in any dwelling house or any place adjoyning , 39. Eliz. cap. 15. 5 Stealing of 12 d. or more without the knowledge of the person , &c. 8. Eliz. cap. 4. 6 Burglary and Rape , 16. Eliz , cap. 7. 7 Killing one that hath no weapon drawn , 1 Jac. cap. 9. CHAP. VIII . Their liberty of hunting in the Kings Forrests . QVicunque Archiepiscopus Comes vel Baro veniens ad nos , per mandatum nostrū transiret per forestam nostram liceat ei capere unam bestiam vel duas , per visum Forestarii si presens fuerit , sin autem faciat cornare , ne videatur hoc furtim facere , hoc liceat eis redeundo facere sicut praedict est : and this hath been interpreted to the comming of a Lord by summons to the Parl. by proces out of the Chancery , Kings bench or otherwise , where the returne is Coram Rege . CHAP. IX . Amerciaments . IN case of Amerciaments of Barons of Parliament upon nonsuits , or other Iudgments , ending in misericordia , there is a speciall course , both for the summe and the way of assertaining of it , which differs from the Amerciaments of cōmon persons . For the summe , the Amerciaments of an Earle , or Spirituall , or Temporall Baron is equall , that is , 5 l. of a Duke , 10 l. and the sessing of this is by the Kings Iustices , before whom the action dependeth . The Iustices in this place supplying the roome of Peeres , by which according to the grand Charter they are to be amercied , as expr●ssly it is affirmed in the Iudgement under H. 6. against the Earle of Northumberland , where the words of the Iustices are , Insomuch as an Earle is a Peere of the Re●lme , he shall be amercied by his Peeres , according to the Statute ▪ and therefore we put not the Amerciament i● ce●taine . And thence and thus is the grand Charter to bee understood that saith , C●mites & Barones non amer●ientur , nisi per Pares suos , but continuall usage hath thus ( as before is shewed ) interpreted that priviledg and so hath the practise been , and thence was it under E. 2. a writ was directed to the Iustices of the Common pleas that they should not amerce the Abb●t of Crowland , tanquam Baro , because he did not hold per Baroniam , aut partem Baroniae . For this of Amerciament while there were no other Titles of greater Nobility but Earle and Baron , which was in the time of E. 3. who created the first Duke in England , as Rich. the 2. the first Marquesse ; and H. 6. the first Viscount . And the Amerciaments of the Lords of the Parl. were all at 5 l. whence also is generally so affirmed in the Statutes of Ireland under H. the sixt , that every Lord that is called L. of Parl. in all places aswell personall as reall , in which amerciaments do ly , shall be amercied at 100 s. But when other dignities were made , and it seemes according to the proportion of the releifes , paied by those new dignities , for a Duke is to be amercied at double the summe of an Earle that is 10 l. as his reliefe is double , which is 20. CHAP. X. No processe in civill actions to bee awarded against the body of a Baron . NO baron of the Parliament or Baronesse is to be arrested by Capias upon action of debt , account , trespasse or the like , but they are to be distrained only and pay issues , retorned for an apparance . The reason of this was anciently , because the Capias in such Cases , goes out only upon nihil habet , retorned by the Sheriffe which could not be for a Baron who was ever to be supposed to be seised of his Barony , by which he might be distrained and lose issues . Although the reason failes now in those that have not more than the names alone of their Baronies , yet the same Law still remaines , but this limited to actions between party and party , and party for in cases of rescues , felonies , or the like , where the offence is immediatly to the King , A Capias lies against a Baron of the Parl. And it is as other priviledges which are legal in England , limited also to the Barons of the Parl. of England , for it appeares under R. 2. that in an action of debt , a Capias was awarded against the Countesse of Ormond , being one Irish Baronesse , and participating of her husbands dignities as our Ladies in Eng. neither can a Baron of Ireland be tried here by the Peeres of Eng. for they are not his Peers , no more than the L. Zanchar might being a Baron of Scotland , who was indicted and arraigned only by the name of Rob. Creighton Esquier and upon this reason , that he was no Baron of Parl. tried by a common Iury . Thence it is also that an Earle , Baron , or Duke of France comming into Engl. by the Kings safe conduct shall not in any legall proceedings be stiled so , as appeares in the time of Edw. the 1. in the case of the E. of Richmond , being then Duke of Brittaine , and in the case of Sir John Douglasse under Edw. the 4. And the reason why S. Gilbert Humfravill , in the time of Edw. the 3. was legally to have his title in writs of Earle of Anguish , was because that in that age the E. of Anguish by that name was L. of the Parl. as it is expresly noted in our year-books . And this difference it seemes hath beene here between Temporall dignities , and Spirituall , that in regard the temporall State of England was ever held as severed and distant from other States , not at all communicating with them in civill government . Therefore forraigne dignities which are of the Civill part of States , had no respect given them as appeares in the examples already brought . But on the other side in dignities Spirituall , because there was anciently through Christendome supposed an unity in the Church . So that England with forraigne Nations , and they with England ( as membe●s of one body had a mutuall reference to each others Countrey ) was legally valued , as Bishops in England , as may be seen in that case of the Bishop of V●recht ( for this is the right Name , though it be printed Vrston ) under E. the 3. where being made Bishop of Vtretcht makes a Prebend of England So the Title of Cardinall was usually given in legall proceedings to such as had that dignity in England , whence also the Archbishop of Raguse being parson of a Benefice in the Bishoprick of Carliste , under King John was ( it seemes ) to have been accounted here also an Archbishop for dignity , though not for Iurisdiction . CHAP. XI . A Knight to be retorned upon every pannel where a Baron is party . IN every Iury impannelled between any Baron of Parl. and other person whatsoever , one Knight at the least is to be returned , which failing the array may bee quashed by challenge : A testimony hereof aswell for spirituall as temporall Barons is frequent . CHAP. XII . No day of grace against a Baron . IF a Baron of the Parl. be plaintif or defendant in any action , and the plaintife or defendant pray a day of grace , he shall not have it against him , and this is expresly affirmed in the books . CHAP. XIII . Making deputies of places of trust committed to them . O● late years it was agreed in the case of Gilbert Earle of Shrewsbury that whereas the office of Steward-ship was granted to the Earle of Rutland , without givi●g power to make a deputy ( and this by Q. Eli●abeth ) that ●et he might exercise the same Office by Deputy , by reason of the n●c●ssity that is supposed in the lawe to be of the Ea●l●s attendanc● upon the King and the Gov●rnment of the Kingdome , the same reason is it seemes for all Barons . FINIS . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A59090e-1130 U. 8 ▪ Dyer . Parl. 14 Eliz. Dyer par . ●9 . & 43. Eliz. & l. ●ac . &c. Rot. Parl. 18. E. 1. Rot. 2. Dor●o : 2 Mareli in Dye● parl ● 15. Hen : 8 : See 3. E. 3. fol. 9. Scroope . Rot. parl. 4 , E. 3. m. 7. Boges of Bovons , Iohn Deverell . Thomas Gournev , William of Ocle . Iohn of Gomeniz . William of Weston . The same Petition is in the roll of petitions , of the first of R. 2. It & ultimo . Iohn Lee Steward of the household The● . ●at . Alice Piere Cavendish against pool C●ancellor . ●ot . parl. 30. ● 3. Art. ●8 . ●2 . E : 3. fo : Hadlowes case parl. 1 R : 2. m. 3. Art : 28.2 R. ● . Art. 19.20 ● : 2 Art. 26. the case ●ase of the ●ate of the ●arle of Sa●i●bury . ●arl . 15. R. ● . m 5. Art : 23. & ●6 . Art. 8 ● 17. Art : ●3 & 18. the case of the Dane , ●nd Chap●aine of ●●chfield ●nd the pray of New●ort ●annell , ● H. 7. fo : 10 Flower●●ens case . ●ot . parl. 20 ● : 3. n : ●3 . ●5 . 38 . See ●lso to this ●liz . stat : C●rl : & 25. E : 3. stat : d●●rovision . Rot. Par. 3. R. 2. M. 3. N. 37. fine 12. Rot. 11. R. 2 M. 2. Act. 34. part . It was ordained in a Councell held at Westminster , that no Clergy ma● should Agitare judicium , and he that did , was to be deprived of his dignity and Orders , Roger de Hovenden in H. 2. page 30.10 . & Gervas . Rot : proces . & Judicii prob . 11. R. 2 Rot. Parl. 2 H. 4. & Rot. Papl . 2. H. 5 Rot. Parl. 13 H. 2 Act. 24 Holest● in Reg. Courtney , 332. Dyer ● Eliz Parlia. yet the Act of this year as of most others , is domin . tam spiritualiū quam temporalem assensu . 7 H , 8. f. 104 b. vel 184 b Stat. 14. E. 3. cap. 5. Rot. Parl : 28. E. 3. petit . 7. 28. E. 3. petit . 7. 28. E. 3. art . 20. Parl. 15 R. 2. art . 37. Stat. 12. R. 2. c. 12. & H. 4. fol. 1. Nat. Brev. fol. 228. Notes for div A59090e-15260 17 Johan . reg p. 35 41 H. 1. Idem pag 1395. & 1315.3 . H. Ro. Parl. Rot. Parl. 7 ●t 8. H. 4. M 4. art . 66 : & H. 4. rot . Parl. 39. ●tat . 21. R. ● . c. 3. & 4. Rot. Parl 1 M. 7. Parl. 1 an. 14 art . ● 5. Dyer , 15. H ● . Parl. Stat. Jac. 14. & 7. ●ap . 6. Stat. 15. Eliz. c. 4. vel . 1 Lib 5. c. de Essoniis , c. 2. & 3. &c 9 fo. 281. 1 Henry 4. fol. 1. a 10. E 4 fo. 6. H. 8. fol. 12. a Stamford , lib. 3. Cap. 1. Cooke , Liber 3. fol. 30.6 . 48. E. 3. fo. 30.16 . lib. Ass. 35. H. 6.46 . a. 22. E 3 fo. 18. a 27. H. 8. fo. 22. Cook ●ib . 6 fo. 53. Regist. orig f. 179. b. Fitz. Nat. bre . f. 165. eodem Parl. in arce London 20. E. 1 Coram Rege , Ret re●ep . Scaccarii . Art. in f●ro deleg . 1550 Mich. 12 : Eliz in ar Cur. apud Examinar . Ro. pro . 10 R. 2. & 10. in ar. Lond Ro● . Parl. ● R. 2. art . 41 : 2● . R 3. & M. & fasce in Sacello● . 18. Iunii Mich. 31. & 32. Eliz. 32. Eliz. 44. Eliz. 7 Sept. Mr. 42. & 4● . Eliz. 40 El●z apud Tothill . O●do 10. lib. 10. Ja● . in Chanc. Mic. 4. Iac. Mic. Winton 5. Com. Pemb. Pas. 6. Com. sinc . Hill. 7. Com Dorset . & Dominus Russel Pas. 5. Jac. Hough●on 1. Eliz. Butter vers Dom. mordant M. 13. & 13 Eliz. Campz . v. Com. Bedfo●d-Mich . 21.22 . Eliz. ibidem Butvers Dom. Rich. Hill. 4. Viscount . Mountag : &c. H. 3. & 4. 3. H. 6. fol. 43. & 44. Rot. parl. 1 H. 7. part . 1. M. 14. M. 15. parl. 15. E. 3. N. 43 Circa E. ● . de Templo in Anonimi Chron. Gal. observ. prac . 100. fol. 22. Not in Appeales 10. Eliz. 4. b. lib. in tract tit. appeale de mort. 7. Stamf. &c. 1 H 4.1 . an. 10.4.6.13 E. 4.12 . an. Stamf. lib. 3 cap. 1. Cooke lib. 9 fol. 30. b. stat . 4. Iac. cap. 1. stat . 20. H. 6 cap. 9. Cook . lib. 6. fo. 52. b. Pas. 3. E. 3 c●ram rege Rot. 9. Rep. 3 E. 3 fo. 186 p● : 28. 13. E. 3. tit. Enquest . 43 tit. challenge . Plowden Com pl. 117 & ve . Hill. 8. E. 3. Ro● . 23. coram Rege . Stat. 4. H. 5 ca 6.33 . H. 8. Tryal 141. Hill 17. E. 2. Rot. 87. Dorse coram Rege & Rot. Rom. m. 6. Thomas Walsingha● fol. 199. Transert . T●i . 30. E. 3. Rot. 11. Rep. ●tamf . lib. ● . fol. 133. ●empore● . 8. pro Triall 142. ●tamf . lib. ● . pag. 135. ●ambd . in ●●rdi Angl. 1 Mar. Dyer fo. 986. Hollenshead Cron. fo. 1749. Surpleis . case . Coo. fo 40.5 Parl. 28. H. 6. Stat. 1. Eliz. c. 1. Laurence Iennius li. 2 a Cromp. Iuris● . f. 33. Dyer , Par● . Iun 14. Eli. & Dyer fo. 314. & 315 Rot. Parl. 3. H. ● . parl. 1. M. 2. N. 46. Rot. Parl. 15. H. 6. N. 25. & Parl. 2 H. 2 art : 69. Parl. Cor. lib. 2. fo. 130. a. 38 E. 3 fol. 3● . a. 24. ● . ● . f. ●1 b. 1. H 6 . 7a 9. H 6 f. 2 b 19. E. ●f 9 a. 21. E. 4. f. 77 b. 1. H. 6. f 7. b. Cook l. 8 f. ● . Gr●sseys case . C. 4 : li. 3. De Cor c. 1. fol. 116. b. Claul . 15. E. 2. m. 12. 11. H. 14. a. Cooke lib. 6. fol. 52. b. 27 H. 8 f. 7. a. 14. a. 22. b. 29. Ass. Pl. 33 14. Eliz. Dyer . fol. 315. Trin. 1●Hen . 4. Rot. 8. Coram Rege Cromw . libr. Introt & tit. Error . utiary 20.13 . R. 2. tit. retorn del . vîc. 74.10 . H. 4. tit. process . 44.198.1 . H. 5. fol. 22. b. v. Ass. 21. ● . 3 fol. 59. b. 39. Eli. f. 35. b & Claus. 39. E. 3. m. 2 19. E. 3. tit. Trial 57 ▪ Extra . tit. derenuntia . cap. 9. ad Supplicationem . 13. E , 3. tit. challeng . 115 & tit. Enquest . 43. Ploud . Com. l. 117. & 1 & 2 Phil. & Mar. Dyer f. 107 63. & 4. ●l. idem f. 208 ● . 27. H. 8. ●● . b. 12. E. 3. f. 9. ● . 27. E. 3. f. ●8 . b. 27. H● . f. 22. b. Te J●. f. 4●Cook● 〈…〉 
A54698	----	The grandeur of the law, or, An exact collection of the nobility and gentry of this kingdom whose honors and estates have by some of their ancestors been acquired or considerably augmented by the practice of the law or offices and dignities relating thereunto the name of such ancestor, together with the time in which he flourished, the society in which he was a member, and to what degree in the law he arrived being perticularly [sic] expressed / by H.P. H. P. (Henry Philipps) 1684 Approx. 300 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 148 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2008-09 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A54698 Wing P2022 ESTC R30532 11352850 ocm 11352850 47553 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. 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Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor. The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines. Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Lawyers -- Great Britain -- Biography. Nobility -- Great Britain -- Biography. 2007-12 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2007-12 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2008-01 John Pas Sampled and proofread 2008-01 John Pas Text and markup reviewed and edited 2008-02 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion The Grandeur OF THE LAW : OR , An exact Collection of the Nobility and Gentry of this Kingdom , whose Honors and Estates have by some of their Ancestors been acquired or considerably augmented by the Practice of the Law , or Offices and Dignities relating thereunto . The Name of such Ancestor , together with the Time in which he Fluorished , the Society in which he was a Member , and to what Degree in the Law he arrived , being perticularly expressed . By H. P. Gent. LONDON , Printed for Arthur Jones at the Flying-Horse near St. Dunstan's Church in Fleetstreet , 1684. TO The RIGHT HONORABLE FRANCIS Lord GVILFORD , LORD KEEPER OF THE GREAT SEAL OF England , &c. MY . LORD , THE welfare of Mankind hath so necessary a Dependance upon Laws , and the Administration of Justice , that by the Vote of all Ages , The Profession of the Law hath ever been rank't amongst the most Honorable Callings . Perhaps in the Judgment of many , it would not have become any Person , less eminent than Cicero , to have said , Cedant Arma Togae ; And yet , if a good Peace be the end and only justifiable ground of War , and if it be true what Philosophy teacheth us , That the End is always more noble than the Means , I do not well see how the Consequence will be avoided , in Favour and Preferrence of the Gown . But this small Treatise hath nothing to do with such Polemical Debates ; It only designs to set down , and enumerate those Illustrious Families of our Nation , which have been raised to Honor and Wealth by the Profession of the Law : The very Nature of the Subject , does in a manner entitle it to your Lordships Protection , who are in your self the greatest Example of this kind , and the greatest Ornament of the Law , in this , or any Age. Others have owed their Preferments in Honor and Estate to the Law , To which your Lordship is much more a Creditor , than a Debtor : When we consider your Nobility of Extraction , Eminency of Parts , and above all , your Inviolable Integrity , we are all bound to confess , that you brought with you more Honor to the Gown , than you receive from it . But these great Truths are not fit to be spoken by so mean a Person , as I am who shall be too much honored in being permitted to lay my self with this small Tribute at your Lordships Feet , and to make a Profession of being , My Lord , Your Honors most Obedient and most humble Servant H. Philipps . TO THE READER . THE Method I have taken , is first of all to Enumerate so many of the present Nobility of England , and such Englishmen whose Titles of Honor are in Scotland and Ireland , ( of which there are but few ) as by the Study and Practice of our Laws , eminent Preferments , and Places of Trust and Profit relating thereunto , are risen and advanced to such their Dignities ; and according to the times of their respective Creations , have placed them with all Circumspection ; Yet I do not insist that they are ranked without any Error , but submit it to the Judgment of those better read in Matters of that Nature : It may be Objected , That I ought not to have preferred the Scots and Irish Nobility any otherwise than according to such English Honors as they are here invested with , and truely they ought not ; but in regard they were but few , I thought it would not be improper to place them next after our English Nobility according to their Titles . The next Degree are the Baronets , which being an Hereditary Title , I have with the like Care placed them persuant to the Date of their several Patents . And as to the Knights and Esquires , forasmuch as there is not any material Precedency claimed or used , I have placed those Degrees promiscuously as they came to my hands , without the least design or intention of Injury to them or any of them , and hope it will be so taken . There have been many Families both of Nobility and Gentry , as have been raised by the means above-mentioned , besides such as I have expressed in this Book , who are now become Extinct as to their Names , though perhaps their Estates have been Vnited to some other Families by Daughters and Heirs , but being it is difficult to point particularly at such Families to whom such Estates were carri●d , and least it might be offensive , I have not in the least meddled therewith . THE NOBILITY . THE first who laid the Foundation of that Noble , and Flourishing Family of the Howards , was William Howard , one of the Judges of the Court of Common-Pleas , in the Reigns of the two first Edwards : From which William , are directly descended , Henry Howard , Duke of Norfolk , Earl of Arundel , Surry , Norfolk and Norwich , and Earl Marshal of England , &c. James Howard , Earl of Suffolk , and Baron Howard of Walden . Thomas Howard , Earl of Berkshire , Viscount Andover , and Baron of Charleton . Charles Howard , Earl of Carlisle , Viscount Morpeth , and Baron Dacres of the North. Henry Lord Stafford . Son and Heir to William Howard , Late Lord Viscount Stafford . Francis Howard , Baron of Effingham . And William Lord Howard of Escrick , with diverse other Honourable Persons of this great Family . Henry Cavendish , Duke , Marquess , and Earl of New-Castle , Earl of Ogle , Viscount Mansfield , Baron Ogle Bertram of Bothall and Bolesover ; as also William Cavendish Earl of Devonshire , and Baron Cavendish of Hardwick , are both descended from Sir John Cavendish Knight , Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench , in the Reigns of King Edward the Third , and Richard the Second . * Observe , The Earl of Devonshire is the Elder House . Charles Sackvill Earl of Dorsett and Middlesex , Baron of Buckhurst , and Lord Cranfield , is descended of an Ancient Family of that Name in Sussex : But the first who made any considerable addition to the Estate and Honour , was Sir Richard Sackvill Knight , one of the Benchers of the Inner-Temple , in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth ; and afterwards Under-Treasurer of the Court of Exchequer , whose Son and Heir was the first Lord Buckhurst . James Cecill Earl of Salisbury , Viscount Cranbourne , and Baron of Essendon ; as also John Cecill Earl of Exeter , and Baron of Burleigh , are both Issued in a direct Line , from William Cecill , an eminent Lawyer of the Society of Grays-Inn , in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth ; in which Study he made so great a Progress , that ( besides many other worthy Offices ) he at last was constituted Lord High Treasurer of England , and created Baron of Burleigh , in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; and at his Death , left an Estate of a prodigious Vallue . John Edgerton Earl of Bridgewater , Viscount Brackley , Baron of Elsmeere , is the Grandson of Thomas Edgerton , a Natural Son to Sir Richard Edgerton of Ridley in Cheshire Knight , which Thomas being placed in Lincolns-Inn , to the Study of the Law , so improved himself therein , that he became , first , Sollicitor General to Queen Elizabeth , next , her Attorney General , then Master of the Rolls , then Lord Keeper , afterwards Lord Chancellor , and last created Baron of Elesmere , and Viscount Brachley , leaving at his Death , an Estate of his own raising , of at least Eight thousand pound per Annum . Edward Rich Earl of Warwick and Holland , Lord Rich of Leez and Kensington , is Lineally descended from Sir Richard Rich Knight , Reader of the Middle-Temple , in the One and twentieth year of Henry the Eighth , who for his great knowledge in the Law , was made Sollicitor General to that Prince ; and afterwards in the Reign of King Edward the Sixth , farther advanced to the Dignity of Lord High Chancellor of England , and created Baron of Leez Court , obtaining a great share of the Revenues of the Church to support his Dignity ; both which he left to his Son Robert , created Earl of Warwick . Charles Montague Earl of Manchester , Viscount Mandevill , and Baron of Kimbolton ; Edward Montague Earl of Sandwich , Viscount Hitchinbrooke , and Baron of St. Neotts ; and Ralph Montague Baron of Boughton , all persons of great Estates : The foundation whereof , was first laid by Sir Edward Montague Knight , Serjeant at Law , first , Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench , and then Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth : He was the Father of Sir Edward Montague Knight , who had Six Sons ; First , Sir Edward , made Lord Montague of Boughton ; the Third Son was Sir Henry Montague of the Middle-Temple , London , Knight , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench , Lord High Treasurer of England in the Reign of King James , afterwards advanced to the Dignity of the Earl of Manchesters : The Sixth Son was Sir Sidney Montague Knight , Grandfather to Edward now Earl of Sandwich . John Sheffield Earl of Mulgrave , and Baron of Butterwick , is directly descended from Sir Robert Sheffield of the Inner-Temple , Knight , Recorder of London , and Speaker of the House of Commons , in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh ; which Sir Robert , by his great knowledge in the Laws of this Kingdom , very much advanced his Family , and purchased a fair Estate in the County of Lincoln , which is now part of the Inheritance of the present Earl , who is the Fifth Baron , and Third Earl of the Family . Henry Mordant Earl of Peterborough , Baron of Turvey , and Charles Lord Viscount Mordant , are both of them the Descendants of John Mordant of the Middle-Temple , Serjeant at Law , and Chancellor of the Dutchy of Lancaster , in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh , who having accumulated a great Estate , was before his death , made a Peer of this Realm by King Henry the Eighth . Thomas Weston Earl of Portland , and Baron of Neyland , is descended from Richard Weston of the Inner-Temple , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , who being a younger Brother , may truly be supposed to be the first advancer of this Family to the Quality and Estate it now enjoys . Henry Hide Earl of Clarendon , Viscount Cornbury , and Baron of Hindon , as also Lawrence Hide Earl of Rochester , Viscount Kenellworth , and Baron of Wooton Basset , are both of them the Sons of Edward late Earl of Clarendon , who was bred up in the Middle-Temple in the Study of the Law , in which he arrived to such perfection , that he became first , Chancellor of the Court of Exchequer , and afterwards Lord High Chancellor of England , by means of which Honourable preferments , 't is well known what a Vast Estate he left to his Posterity . Robert Brudnell Earl of Cardigan , and Baron Brudnell of Stanton-Wivell , is direct Heir-Male to Robert Brudnell Esq ; , Serjeant at Law ; and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the time of King Henry the Eighth , a Man of great Learning in the Laws , and Master of a great Estate , most of his own acquiring . Robert Earl of Alesbury , Viscount Bruce of Ampthill , and Baron of Skelton , is the Grandson of Edward Bruce Master of the Rolls in the Reign of King James ; by whom , the said Edward was created Baron of Kinloss in Scotland : The place of Master of the Rolls did doubtless much conduce to the advancement of the Estate which the said Edward Lord Kinloss had ; yet notwithstanding , he was Honourably descended , and enjoyed an ample Fortune before he executed that Office : but most of it lay in Scotland , the place of his Nativity . Anthony Cooper Earl of Shaftsbury , Baron Ashly of Wimbourne Saint Giles , and Lord Cooper of Paulett , is the Son and Heir to Anthony late Earl of Shaftesbury , who , tho' I cannot say he ever made it his business to study the Law , yet was he of the Society of Lincolns-Inn , and by the profits arising out of such Offices as he enjoyed , relating to the Law , did he greatly augment his Estate , being , first , Chancellor of the Exchequer , and afterwards Lord High-Chancellor of England . Charles Gerrard Earl of Macklesfield , Viscount and Baron of Brandon ; Digby Lord Gerrard , Baron of Gerrards-Bromley , are both descended from that Learned and Judicious Lawyer of Grays-Inn , Sir Gilbert Gerrard Knight , Attorney General , and Master of the Rolls in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , who being a Younger Son of the House of Bryn in Lancashire , was placed to Study the Law , and thereby lay'd the first Foundation of those great Estates and Honours , which in succeeding times accrewed to this spreading Family . * The Reader may be pleased to observe , that though the Earl of Macklesfield , according to his Dignity , be placed before the Lord Gerrard of Bromley , yet the said Lord Gerrard is of the Elder House . William Paston Earl and Viscount of Yarmouth , and Baron of Oxnead , is descended from Sir William Paston Knight , one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . Much might be mentioned to the Antiquity and Greatness of this Worthy Family , were it not contrary to the method designed . Daniell Finch Earl of Nottingham , and Baron of Daventry , is the Grandson of Sir Heneage Finch of the Inner-Temple Knight , Recorder of the City of London , and Son of Sir Heneage Finch Barronet , a Member of the same Society , who was first , Attorney General to this King ; next , Lord Keeper , then Baron of Daventry , after , Lord High Chancellor of England , and lastly Earl of Nottingham ; which first Sir Heneage was a younger Branch of the House of Winchelsea , and so consequently it may be presumed what Estate this Noble Earl now enjoys , was in a great measure acquired by those two famous Members of the Law. A younger Brother of this Earl , is that most Ingeneous and Excellent Lawyer , Heneage Finch of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , His now Majesties Sollicitor General ; as also William Finch Esq ; his Brother , a learned Gentleman of the same Socity : Of this Family was John Finch of Grays-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Charles the first , and for a short time , Lord Keeper of the Great Seal of England , and created Baron of Fordwich in Kent , but dyed without Issue . William Brabazon Earl of Meath in Ireland , is the direct Heir Male to Sir Roger Brabazon of Estwell in the County of Leicester Knight , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the first . Francis Lord Angier , Earl of Longford in Ireland , is descended from Francis Angier of Grays-Inn Esq ; , Reader thereof in the Four and fortieth year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and afterwards became Master of the Rolls in Ireland , where he layd the foundation to this Honour , and the Estate that attends it . Horatio Townsend , Lord Viscount Raynham , and Baron of Lynn-Regis in the County of Norfolk , is descended , by many worthy Ancestors , from Sir Roger Townsend Knight , Reader of Lincolns-Inn , who , for his great knowledge in the Law , was called to the Degree of a Serjeant , and made one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , in the Reigns of King Richard the Third , and Henry the Seventh ▪ Thomas Thynn , Viscount Weymouth , and Baron of Warminster , enjoys a very plentiful Estate , as descended from Sir Egremont Thynn of the Inner-Temple , London , Knight , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King James ; which Sir Egremont did not a little augment the Estate of his Ancestors , who were before Men of very considerable repute and Quality . Christopher Hatton , Viscount Gretton , and Baron of Kirby , in the County of Northampton , is a Branch of the Ancient Stem of the Hattons of Cheshire , and is the Heir to Sir Christopher Hatton Knight , who , from a Student in the Inner-Temple , in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , did , by his great abillities , and singular knowledge in the Laws , raise himself to great Honour and Estate by the access of divers places of great Profit and Repute , and at last arrived to the highest step of Preferment , being made Lord High-Chancellor of England ; but Dying without Islue , a great part of his Estate did at length devolve to the Ancestor of this Lord Hatton , who was Nephew to the said Lord-Chancellor . William Farefax , Lord Viscount Farefax of the Kingdom of Ireland , is descended from that famous Lawyer , Sir Guy Farefax Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the several Reigns of King Edward the Fourth , and Richard the Third . Bryen Cockain , Lord Viscount Cullen of the Kingdom of Ireland , whose Seat is at Rushton , in the County of Northampton , is descended , by a Younger Son , from that famous and Learned Judge , Sir John Cockain , Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer , and afterwards one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , in the Reign of King Henry the Fourth , which John had his residence at Ashborn in the Peake , in the County of Derby , where his Ancestors for many Ages before , and his Successors ever since , continue and live in great Honour and Esteem . Charles Mildmay , Lord Fitz Walter , a person of very Noble Extraction , as descended from the Female Issue of the Antient Lords Fitz Walter , and the Ratcliffs Earls of Sussex ; and by the Fathers side , from Thomas Mildmay Esq ; , one of the Auditors of the then new Erected Court of Augmentations , in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Henry Yelverton , Lord Grey of Ruthyn , is lineally descended from those two Learned Judges , Sir Cristopher Yelverton of Grays-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench , in the Reigns of Queen Elizabeth , and King James , and also from Sir Henry Yelverton of the same Society Knight , ( Son of the said Sir Chistopher ) who was called to the Degree of a Serjeant , and constituted one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , by King Charles the First , in the beginning of his Reign ; both which Eminent persons were the Descendants of Sir William Yelverton Knight , one of the Justices of the said Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . Vere Cromwell , Lord Cromwell , Baron of Oakeham in England , and Earl of Ardglass , Viscount Lecale , &c. in Ireland , is directly descended from Thomas Cromwell Earl of Essex , Baron of Oakeham , and Knight of the Garter , who being a person of no great Extraction , did , by his great knowledge in the Laws , and other singular accomplishments , first of all obtain the place of Clerk of the Hannaper , next , Chancellor of the Court of Exchequer , then Master of the Rolls , after , Lord Privy-Seal , and lastly to those Honourable Titles abovementioned , by the access of which Offices , and by the dissolution of Religious Houses ( in which he acted a considerable part ) he did greatly enrich himself , till at last being Convicted , Attainted and Beheaded for Treason , or some other great Offence , the Earldome of Essex was thereby lost , and his Son an Heir only dignified with the said Barony , by a new Creation ; and restored to a considerable part of his Fathers Estate . William Pagett ; Lord Pagett and Baron of Beudesert in Stafford-Shire , is descended by many Noble Peers of this Realm , in a direct course of succession from Sir William Pagett Knight , a Gentleman very Learned in the Laws , by means whereof he was made one of the Clerks of the Council , and Chancellor of the Dutchy of Lancaster , in the several Reigns of King Henry the Eighth , and Edward the Sixth , and afterwards having greatly advanced himself in Estate and Riches , he was created a Baron of this Kingdom , being at first but a Student in the Inns of Court. Charles North , Lord North , Baron of Carthlidge , and Lord Grey of Rolleston , is lineally descended from Edward North Esq ; a Younger Branch of the worthy Family of the Norths of Walkringham , in the County of Nottingham , which Edward having applyed himself to the Study of the Laws , and thereby made himfelf capable of those honourable Preferments , to which he afterwards arrived , was first , one of the Clerks of the Council , next , Treasurer and Chancellor of the Court of Augmentations in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth ; and lastly made a Peer of this Realm by Queen Mary . John Lord Petre , Baron of Writtle in the County of Essex , is descended from Sir William Petre Knight , Doctor of the Civil Law , and one of the Secretaries of State to King Henry the 8th , Edward the Sixth , Queen Mary , and Queen Elizabeth , and by his great Learning and Honourable Preferments , became Master of a great Estate , most of which continueth to his Successors at this Day . Christopher Roper , Lord Tenham , Baron of Tenham in Kent , is very Honourably descended from a Family of great Antiquity in the said County , amongst whom was John Roper of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , direct Ancestor to this Noble Lord ; which John being Attorney General to King Henry the Eighth , and of profound Judgement and Knowledge in the Laws , made a very considerable Augmentation to the Antient Inheritance of this worthy Family . John Lovelace , Lord Lovelace , Baron of Hurly in Berkshire , is Descended from that eminent Lawyer , William Lovelace of Grays-Inn Esq ; , Reader thereof in the fourth Year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and soon after called to the Degree of a Serjeant at Law. John Lord Coventry , Baron of Alesbrough in the County of Worcester , enjoys an Estate of vast extent and worth , as Heir to those two most famous Lawyers of their time , the first of which was Thomas Coventry of the Inner-Temple , London , Esq ; Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James , Father of the no less Learned Thomas Coventry , a Student in the same Society , who for his great Abillities was , first , Recorder of London , next , Sollicitor , and afterwards Attorney General to King James , and lastly , further advanced to the Dignity of Lord Keeper of the great Seal of England . which Honourable place , he Executed with great Honour and Justice for the space of Fifteen years , in the Reign of King Charles the first , And was longer than any person before , or since his time , ever held the same , and longer he might have enjoyed it had not Death interposed . Francis Smyth , Lord Carrington , and Baron of Woton in Warwickshire ; is directly descended from John Smyth , Esq ; Serjeant at Law , and one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer , in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , which John Dyed , seized of a very plentiful Estate , most of his own acquiring . John Lord Colepeper , Baron of Thoresway in the County of Lincolne , is lineally descended , by many worthy Ancestors , and men of great quallity in the County of Kent , from John Colepeper Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , in the Reign of King Henry the Fifth . The Father of this Lord Colepeper was Master of the Rolls for a short time , till he was devested thereof , for his Loyalty , by the Parliament , about the year , 1642. Thomas Crew , Lord Crew , and Baron of Stone in the County of Northampton , is the Grandson and Heir to Sir Thomas Crew Knight , one of his Majesties Serjeants at Law in the Reign of King Charles the First ; which Sir Thomas purchased a very fair Estate in the County of Northampton , himself being a younger Branch of the Antient Family of the Crews of Crew in Cheshire . A younger Brother of the present Lord Crew , is the Right Reverend Father in God , Nathaniel Lord Bishop of Durham . Hugh Clifford , Lord Clifford of Chudleigh in the County of Devon , is the Son and Heir to the late famous and truly honourable Sir Thomas Clifford , Baron Clifford of Chudleigh , who was of the Society of the Middle-Temple , and for his singular Learning and Merits , was made Lord High-Treasurer of England , which great Trust he faithfully Executed with all the Justice and integrity imaginable . Francis Lord North , Baron of Guilford in the County of Surry , ( whose descent from Edward North Esq ; , Treasurer and Chancellor of the Court of Augmentations , I have herein before expressed ) being a younger Son of Dudly , late Lord North , applyed himself to the Study of the Law in the Middle-Temple , in which he became so eminent for his great Learning and Experience , that he was , first , invested with the Honour of Knighthood , and then constituted his now Most Gracious Majesties Solicitor General , after , Attorney General , then one of his said Majesties Serjeants at Law , and shortly after Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas , from whence , upon the Death of the late Earl of Nottingham , his Lordship was most worthily removed to the Dignity of Lord Keeper of the great Seal of England , in which he now continues , Administring Justice and Equity without partiallity , to the great ease and satisfaction of His Majesties Subjects , and his own everlasting Honour . Henry Lord Farfax , Baron of Cameron in the Kingdom of Scotland , is descended from that Learned Lawyer , Sir Guy Farfax Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth ; which Sir Guy was descended of a Family of great Antiquity and Honour in the County of York , in which his now Lordship's residence is . Henry Lord Richardson , Baron of Cramond in the said Kingdom of Scotland , is descended from the late famous Sir Thomas Richardson of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , first , Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas , and thence removed to the same Dignity in the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of King James ; by which honourable places , and his own great Abillities , he laid a fair foundation to that Honour and Estate which now attends this Noble Lord. Henry Hare , Baron of Colerane in the Kingdom of Ireland , is descended from Sir Nicholas Hare Knight , Reader of the Inner-Temple in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , made Master of the Rolls in the Reign of Queen Mary , and from Hugh Hare Esq ; , who was Reader of the same Society in the last Year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Thomas Needham , Lord Kilmurry of the Kingdom of Ireland is descended from Sir John Needham of Shevington , Alias Sheinton , in the County of Salop Knight , Serjeant at Law , Cheif Justice of Chester , and one of the Judges of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the beginning of the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Baronets . SIR Edmond Bacon of Redgrave in the County of Suffolke , Baronet , ( the first of that Dignity within this Kingdom ) is Descended from the famous Sir Nicholas Bacon of Grays-Inn Knight , Attorney of the Court of Wards , and Liveries , and Lord Keeper of the great Seal of England in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; a younger Son of which Sir Nicholas , was the no less learned Francis Bacon of Grays-Inn aforesaid ; a person singularly read in the Laws , and of incomparable Parts , in respect whereof , he was Created Baron of Verulam , Viscount , St. Albans , and Lord High Chancellor of England by King James , which great Honours and Preferments were soon blasted by some great Offence he committed , during the time he had the Custody of the Seal , and so became reduced to lead the remainder of his Life in privacy , at his Chambers in Grays-Inn till his Death , leaving no Issue Male. Sir Henry Hobart , of Intwood , in the County of Norfolk Baronet , a Gentleman of a very fair Estate in those parts , is the great Grandson and Heir to Sir Henry Hobart of Lincolns-Inn Knight and Baronet , Serjeant at Law , Attorney General to King James , and afterwards Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas , a person of profound Judgment and Knowledge in the Laws , as by his Learned works lately published under the Title of Hobarts Reports , is sufficiently manifested ; which said Reverend Judge was descended by a Younger Son from Sir James Hobart Knight , Reader of the same Society , and Attorney General to King Henry the Seventh . Sir John Shelly , of Michelgrove in the County of Sussex , Barronet , is Descended from William Shelly of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas , in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , which William did very considerably augment the Estate of his Ancestors , who for many Ages before had flourished in this County in great splendor . Sir Henry Mounson , of Carleton , in the County of Lincoln , and of Broxbourn-Bury , in the County of Hertford Baronet , of the Antient Family of the Mounsons of Burton , in the County of Lincoln , is descended from Robert Mounson , a Learned Lawyer of Grays-Inn , called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law by Queen Elizaheth , in the beginning of her Reign , and soon after constituted one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , by which means he made a fair Addition to his Antient Inheritance . Sir Philipp Woodhouse of Wilber Hall in the County of Norfolk Baronet , is descended by many worthy Ancestors of great honour in this County from Robert de Woodhouse , Esq one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Sir Philip Tirwhit , of Kettilby in the County of Lincoln Baronet , is descended from Robert Tirwhit Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of both Benches in the several Reigns of King Henry the Fourth , and Henry the Fifth . Sir Robert Dallison of Lauton in the County of Lincoln Baronet , is descended from William Dallison of Grays-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Edward the Sixth , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common Pleas. Sir Thomas Hussey of Hennington , in the County of Lincoln , Baronet , is directly descended from Sir William Hussey of Grays-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , Attorney General to King Edward the Fourth , and afterwards Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings Bench , in the Reign of the same Prince . Sir Charles Mordant of Massingham in the County of Norfolk , Baronet , is descended by a younger Branch from John Mordant Serjant at Law , and Attorney of the Dutchy of Lancaster in the Reign of King Henry the seventh , created Lord Mordant of Turvey by King Henry the 8th . Sir Thomas Spencer of Yarnton , in the County of Oxford , Baronet , ( a younger Branch of the Spencers Earls of Sunderland ) had a fair Addition made to his Estate by the access of divers Mannours and Lands of great value , given to Sir Thomas his Grandfather , by Thomas Spencer of Claverdon in the County of Warwick , Esq ; a Lawyer of Eminent practice and Note in Lincolns-Inn , of which Society he was many years one of the Governours , or Treasurers , in the Reign of King James . Sir William Appleton , of South-Bemstead , and great Badow , in the County of Essex , Baronet , is descended from Thomas Appleton Esq ; , Reader of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of King Richard the Third . Sir Charles Sedley of Aylesford , and Southfleet in the County of Kent Baronet ▪ is descended from Sir William Sedley of Lincolns-Inn Knight and Baronet , one of the Benchers of the said Society in the Reign of King James . Sir Edward Hales of Woodchurch , and Tunstal in the County of Kent Baronet , is descended from James Hales Esq ; , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas , in the Reign of King Edward the Sixth . Sir William Portman of Orchard in the County of Somerset , Knight of the Bath , and Baronet , a person of great Honour and ample Fortune , is descended from William Portman Esq ; , Reader of the Middle-Temple , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Reverend Judges of the Kings-Bench , in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir John Wray , of Glentworth in the County of Lincoln , Baronet , is descended from the Famous and Learned Sir Christopher Wray Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; which Sir John lately terminating in one Daughter and Heir , She by her Intermarriage with George Son and Heir apparent to George Sanderson , Lord Viscount Castleton of the Kingdom of Ireland , hath annexed avast Estate to that Honourable Family . Sir William Ayloff , of Braxted-Magna , in the County of Essex , Baronet , is directly descended from William Ayloff Esq ; , Reader of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh , and from William Ayloff of the same Society , Esq ; Serjeant at Law in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir Christopher Wivel , of Constable-Burton , in the County of York Baronet , ( a Family of great Antiquity and repute ) is descended from John de Wivell , one of the Barons of the Exchequer , and one of the Judges of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Third . Sir Thomas Englefield , of Wooton-Basset , in the County of Wilts , Baronet , is descended from Thomas Englefield of the Middle-Temple , London , Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir John Napier of Lewtonhow , in the County of Bedford , Baronet , is descended from Sir Robert Napier of the Middle-Temple , London , Knight , Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in Ireland . Sir Henry Littleton , of Franckley , and Over-Arley , in the County of Worcester , Baronet , is the Eldest Male Branch , directly descended from the Famous Sir Thomas Littleton , Alias Westcote of Franckley aforesaid , Knight of the Bath , Author of that Excellent Book , Intituled , Littleton's Tenures , which Sir Thomas applied himself to the Study of the Law , in the Inner-Temple , wherein he soon arrived to such perfection , that he was called to the Degree of a Serjeant at Law , ( a Dignity in those days esteemed of at a better rate than it is now usually looked upon ) and lastly constituted one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth ; this Sir Thomas accumulated a very great Estate , and therewith made such ample Provisions to advance his Posterity , that few Families in this Kingdom , now living , do surpass them in Estate and Dignity , as by what I shall herein after mention of the rest of the Branches thereof , will sufficiently be Demonstrated . Sir Edward Philipps of Barrinton , in the County of Somerset Baronet , is directly descended from Sir Edward Philipps of the Middle-Temple London , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Master of the Rolls ( a place of great Honour and Profit ) in the Reign of King James . Sir Henry Newton , alias Puckering of the Priory near Warwick , in the County of Warwick , and of Charleton in the County of Kent Baronet , enjoyeth a great Estate as Heir to the Learned Sir John Puckering of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Keeper of the great Seal of England , towards the latter end of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir John Boteler of Hatfield-Woodhall in the County of Hatford , Baronet , is descended from John Boteler of Lincolns-Inn Esque , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the first year of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir John Packington , of Hampton-Lovett , in the County of Worcester , and of Aylesbury , in the County of Buckingham , Baronet , is descended from John Packington of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , one of the Kings Serjeants at Law in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , which John greatly advanced his Estate and Family . Sir Thomas Delves of Duddington , in the County of Chester , Baronet , a Family of long continuance in that County , is direct Heir Male to Sir John Delves Knight , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Sir John Norton of Rotherfield , in the County of Southampton , Baronet , is descended from Richard Norton Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas , in the first year of the Reign of King Henry the Fifth . Sir Henry Skipwith of Priestwold in the County of Leicester , Baronet , is descended , through a continued course of Eminent Ancestors , from William de Skipwith Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Barons of the Exchequer , and also one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Sir Thomas Tempest of Stella , in the Bishoprick of Durham , Baronet , is descended from Thomas Tempest , a Learned Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , and twice Reader thereof in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , this Family is of far greater Antiquity in those Northern parts , than in Henry the 8th's time , though the said Thomas then did considerably add to the Antient Inheritance thereof . Sir John Playters of Sotterly-Hall , in the County of Suffolk Baronet , a Person of a very worthy Family ; is descended from Thomas Playter Esq ; , a Learned Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , and one of the Governours thereof in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Sir John Harpur of Calke , in the County of Derby Baronet , is directly descended from Richard Harpur of Swarkeston , in the said County , Esq ; , who being brought up to the Study of the Law in the Inner-Temple , became one of the Readers of that Society in the beginning of Queen Elizabeth's Reign , and in a short time after called to the Degree of a Serjeant at Law , and then made one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas . Of this Family was Sir John Harpur , late of Swarkeston aforesaid , Knight , who dyed without any Issue Surviving . Sir Thomas Beaumont of Grace-dieu , in the County of Leicester , Baronet , ( a Younger Branch of the Antient Lords Beaumont ) is descended from John Beaumount of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Master of the Rolls in the Reign of King Edward the Sixth , and from Francis Beaumont of the same Society Esq ; , ( Son and Heir of the said John ) Serjeant at Law , and one of the Learned Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth : By which two Eminent Persons was this branch of that Noble Family very considerably advanced both in Honour and Estate . Sir Thomas Colepeper of Preston-Hall , in the County of Kent , Baronet , is descended from that learned Lawyer John Colepeper Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Fifth . Sir Henry Moore of Falley , in the County of Berks , Baronet , is the Heir directly descended from Sir Francis Moore of Falley aforesaid , Knight , Reader of the Middle-Temple , and a Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King James , Author of that elaborate Collection of Reports , entituled , Moores Reports , some time since made publick by the learned Sir Gefrey Palmer , Knight and Baronet . Sir Henry Hele of Fleet , in the County of Devon , Baronet , is descended from John Hele of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , in the several Reigns of Queen Elizabeth and King James . Sir Edward Littleton of Pillaton-Hall in the County of Stafford , Baronet , is descended from Richard Littleton , second Son of the famous and Learned Sir Thomas Littleton , Alias Westcote , of Franckly in the County of Worcester , Knight of the Bath , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth , which Richard was also of the Society of the Inner-Temple , where he became very Eminent for his great Judgement in the Law , and thereby , and by his Intermarriage with Allice Sole , Daughter and Heir to William Winsbury of Pillaton-Hall aforesaid , Esq ; , together with what Estate the said Sir Thomas setled upon him , did he leave an ample Estate to his Posterity , who were and are of as Honourable Esteem as this County affords . Sir Henry Bacon , of Milden-Hall , and Laund in the County of Suffolk , Baronet , is descended by many Honourable Ancestors , from John de Bacon , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , in the Sixth Year of the Reign of King Edward the Second , and from Thomas de Bacon , one of the Learned Judges of the same Court in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Sir John Corbett of Stoke , upon Tene and Adderly , in the County of Salop ; Baronet , is lineally descended from Reignald Corbett of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench , in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , which Reignald was a younger Son of Sir Robert Corbett of Moreton Corbett in the said County , Knight , a Family of great Antiquity in those parts . Sir Thomas Nitingall of Newport-Pond , in the County of Essex , Baronet , is descended from Gefrey Nitingall of Grays-Inn , a person very Eminent for his great Knowledge in the Laws , and Reader of the said Society in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir William Colepeper of Wakehurst and Ardingly in the County of Sussex , Baronet , is descended , by many renowned Ancestors , from John Colpeper , one of the Learned Judges of the Court of Common-Pleas , in the Reign of King Henry the Fifth . Sir Thomas Vavasour of Haselwood , in the County of York , Baronet , is descended from John Vavasour of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , in the Reigns of King Edward the Fourth and Fifth , after which , he became Reader of the said Society , being the first that arrived to that Dignity in that House , and in the fifth year of King Henry the Seventh was constituted one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas : This is a Family of very long continuance , and great Honour in the County of York for many Ages before this Learned Judges time , yet did he in a large measure augment the Estate of his Ancestors . Sir Charles Wolsely of Wolsely in the County of Stafford , Baronet , is descended from Ralph Wolsely Esq ; , one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Sir John Anderson of St. Ives , in the County of Huntington , Baronet , is directly descended from the Famous and Learned Sir Edmond Anderson of the Inner-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the first year of the Reign of King James , which Sir Edmond was the Author of that Learned Volume of Reports , Intituled , Anderson's Reports . Sir Roger Cave of Stanford in the County of Northampton , Baronet , a person of a very Honourable and Antient Family , who for many Generations have had their Cheif Seat and Residence at Stanford aforesaid , is descended from John de Cave , one of the Justices of the Kings Bench , in the beginning of the Reign of the Victorious and renowned Prince , King Edward the First . Sir Oliver Boteler of Teston , in the County of Kent , Baronet , is descended from John Boteler Reader of Lincolns-Inn , and called to the Degree of a Serjeant at Law by King Henry the Seventh , after which , in the first year of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth he was constituted one of the Barons of the Exchequer . Sir Robert Hatton , of Long Stanton , in the County of Cambridge , Baronet , is descended from Thomas Hatton Esq ; , Reader of the Middle-Temple in the Reign of King Charles the First , a Branch of the Antient Family of the Hattons in Cheshire . Sir Thomas Hare of Stow-Bardolf in the County of Norfolk , Baronet , a person of a very fair Estate , is descended from Sir Nicholas Hare Knight , Reader of the Inner-Temple in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , and afterwards made Master of the Rolls by Queen Mary . Sir Roger Norwich of Brompton , in the County of Northampton , Baronet , is descended from Robert Norwich of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir John Brownlow of Humbey and Belton , in the County of Lincoln , Baronet , a person of a vast Estate in those parts , is descended from Richard Brownlow , a Learned Lawyer , and one of the Benchers of the Inner Temple in the Reign of King James , Author of Brownlow's Reports . Sir John Sidenham of Brimpton , in the County of Somerset , Baronet , is descended by many worthy Ancestors , from Richard de Sidenham Esq ; , one of the Learned Justices of the Court of Common Pleas , in the Eleventh year of the Reign of King Richard the Second . Sir Edward Nicholls of Hardwick and Flaxon , in the County of Northampton , Baronet , is descended from Sir Augustine Nicholls of the Middle-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James , and Chancellor to King Charles the First whilst he was Prince of Wales . Sir Hugh Cholmley , alias Cholmondleigh of Whitby , in the County of York , Baronet , is directly descended from Sir Roger Cholmondley , of Lincolns-Inn , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , which Sir Roger was descended by a younger branch from the Cholmondleighs of Cholmondleigh in Cheshire , the Chief of which is Hugh Lord Viscount Cholmley of Kellis in Ireland , residing at Cholmley aforesaid . Sir Thomas Trevor of Tennington Hastings , in the County of Warwick , Knight and Baronet , is descended from Sir Thomas Trevor Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Charles the First , which Sir Thomas is ( as I hear ) lately Dead without Issue Male. Sir Francis Rhodes of Barlbrough in the County of Derby , Baronet , is descended from the Learned Sir Francis Rhodes of Grays-Inn , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common Pleas in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir Robert Bindloss of Borrick-Hall , in the Parish of Warton in the County of Lancaster ; Baronet , is lineally descended from William Bindloss , a Famous and Learned Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , and one of Her Majesties Serjeants at Law in the Reign of Queen Mary ; which William left a great Estate to his Posterity . Sir William Walter of Saresden in the County of Oxford , Baronet , is descended from Sir John Walter of the Inner-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King James ; which Sir John was the Son and Heir to Edmund Walter Esq ; , a Man of great Judgement in the Law , and divers times Reader of the same Society in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , by which two eminent persons , a great part of the Lands and Estate of this Sir William was Purchased , and annexed to the Ancient Possessions of this worthy Family . Sir Robert Coke of Longford , in the County of Derby , Baronet , is descended by a younger Son , from the Famous and Profound Lawyer Sir Edward Coke of the Inner Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , Attorney General to King James , and afterwards Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench , whose Learned and Elaborate Works now extant , and made publick , do sufficiently evidence his great Abilities , and remain as lasting monuments of Honour to him and his Posterity . Sir John Gell of Hopton in the County of Derby , Baronet , is descended from Anthony Gell , an Eminent Lawyer of the Inner-Temple , Reader , as also one of the Benchers thereof in the beginning of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir William Ingilby of Ripley in the County of York , Baronet , is lineally descended from Thomas Ingilby Esq ; , one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Third ; and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Richard the Second . Sir John Lowther of White-Haven in the County of Cumberland , and of Sockbridge in the County of Westmorland , Baronet , a Family of great Antiquity and Honour in those Northern parts , is descended by many worthy Ancestors of Signal Renown and Quality , from Hugh de Lowther , Attorney General to King Edward the First , and from Thomas de Lowther , one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Sir Robert Markham of Sedgebrook in the County of Lincoln , Baronet , is descended from that Reverend and Learned Judge , Sir John Markham Knight , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth ; which Sir John Markham was descended from another Sir John Markham Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas , in the several Reigns of King Richard the Second , and Henry the Fourth . Sir Anthony Thorold of Marston , in the County of Lincoln , Baronet , is a person of a very Ancient Family in this County , and men of great Repute and Honour in their times , amongst whom was that Learned Lawyer of Grays-Inn , Sir Anthony Thorold Knight , one of the Readers of the said Society in the Reign of Queen Mary , by which last named Sir Anthony , was the Estate of this flourishing Family considerably advanced . Sir William Halton of Samford , in the County of Essex , Baronet , is directly descended from Robert Halton of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and Reader of that Honourable Society in the Fifteenth year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir Thomas Littleton of Stoke-Milburge and Munslow , in the County of Salop , and of North Okindon , in the County of Essex , Baronet , a person of a very ample Fortune , is lineally descended from Thomas Littleton of Spechley , in the County of Worcester Esq ; , the third and youngest Son of the deservedly famous , and Learned Judge , Sir Thomas Littleton of the Inner-Temple , Knight of the Bath , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . The Estate of this Sir Thomas Littleton , Baronet , was in a large measure augmented by the Access of what his Mother annexed thereto , who was , Ann Sole , Daughter and Heir to that Eminent Lawyer , Edward Lord Littleton , Baron of Mounslow aforesaid , who ( being a younger Son of the Littletons of Spechley abovementioned , ) applyed himself to the studies of the Law in the Inner-Temple , and therein arrived to such perfection , that he became first of all , Reader of that House , then Solicitor General , soon after Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas , and lastly , Lord Keeper of the Great Seal of England , all in the Reign of His late Majesty King Charles the First ; He was the Author of that Learned Book Intituled Littleton's Reports , lately made publick ; and elder Brother of William Littleton Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and to Sir Timothy Littleton of the Inner-Temple Knight , also Serjeant at Law , and lately one of the Barons of the Exchequer . Sir Thomas Chamberlain of Wickham in the County of Oxford , Baronet , is descended from Sir Thomas Chamberlain of Grays-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Chief Justice of Chester , from whence he was removed , and constituted one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James . Sir Samuell Danvers of Cullworth in the County of Northampton , Baronet , is descended from Robert Danvers , a Learned and Famous Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , one of the King's Serjeants at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of Henry the Sixth . Sir Richard Anderson of Penley in the County of Hertford , Baronet , is descended from Sir Edmond Anderson Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the first year of the Reign of King James . Sir Richard Foster of Stokesly in the County of York , Baronet , is descended from William Foster Esq ; , Reader of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , and called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law by Queen Mary . Sir Aston Cockain of Ashburn in the Peak in the County of Derby , and of Pooley in the County of Warwick , Baronet , a Family of great Antiquity in those Counties , perticularly in Derbyshire , is descended from Sir John Cockain of Ashburne aforesaid , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Fourth , as also Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer . Sir Paul Whichcott of Hendon in the County of Middlesex , Baronet , is the Son and Heir to Sir Jeremiah Whichcott of the Inner-Temple , Baronet , sometime Warden of the Fleet in His now Majesties Reign . Sir John Bridgeman of Great Leaver in the County of Lancaster , and of Castle-Bromwich in the County of Warwick , Baronet , is the eldest Son , and Heir to the late famous Sir Orlando Bridgeman of the Inner-Temple , Knight and Baronet , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer , Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas , and from thence removed to the dignity of Lord Keeper of the Great Seal of England ; he was the first English man that His present Majesty advanced to the degree of a Baronet after His most happy Restoration . Sir Lewis Palmer of Carleton in the County of Northampton , Baronet , a Gentleman of a very plentiful Estate , is the Son and Heir to the late worthy Sir Jefrey Palmer of Carleton aforesaid , and of the Middle-Temple , Knight and Baronet , His Majesties Attorney General , a person of profound Judgement in the Laws , and of other singular Abilities . Sir Humphry Winch of Hannes in the County of Bedford , and of Harleford in the County of Buckingham , Baronet , is descended from Sir Humphry Winch of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Baron of the Exchequer , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in Ireland , and thence removed to the dignity of one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in England in the Reign of King James . Sir Thomas Allen of the City of London , Knight and Baronet , sometime since Lord Mayor thereof , is descended from John Allen Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , Reader of Lincolns Inn in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Seventh , and afterwards one of the Barons of the Exchequer . Sir Henry North of Mildenhall in the County of Suffolk , Baronet , a younger branch of the Honourable Family of the Lord North , is descended from Sir Edward North Knight , who was Chancellor and Treasurer of the Court of Augmentations in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , after created Lord North. Sir Thomas Darcey of St. Cleres Hall in the County of Essex , Baronet , ( of the Ancient Family of the Darcies of the North ) is descended from John Darcey of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Readers of that Honourable Society in the Reign of His late Majesty King James . Sir Henry Stapleton of Mitton in the County of Tork , Baronet , is descended by many worthy Ancestors , ( who by Marriages were allyed to the best Families in this Kingdom ) from Nicholas de Stapleton , a Person of great Note in the time of Henry the Third , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench , in the first Year of the Reign of King Edward the First . Sir Robert Cordell of Long-Melford in the County of Suffolk , Baronet , is descended from Sir William Cordell of Lincolns-Inn Knight , a person of great Learning and Knowledge in the Laws ; in respect whereof he was called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law by Queen Mary , and afterwards made Master of the Rolls . Sir William Wray of Ashby in the County of Lincoln , Baronet , is a younger Branch , descended from the Famous Sir Christopher Wray Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir George Warburton of Arely-hall in the County of Chester , Baronet , a Family of long continuance , and great esteem in this County , is descended from Sir Peter Warburton of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law in the time of Queen Elizabeth , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James , a person very eminent in his time for his great abilities in the Law. Sir Saint Andrew Saint John of Woodford in the County of Northampton , Baronet , is descended from Oliver St. John of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , a man of great Prudence and Learning , who was Attorney General to King Charles the First , in the year One thousand six hundred and fourty , and afterwards Lord Chief Justice of the Vpper Bench ( as it was then termed ) in the time of the late unhappy Usurpation . Sir Andrew Henly of Bramsell in the County of Somerset , Baronet , is descended from Sir William Henley Knight , one of the Readers of Grays-Inn in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir William Ellis of Wyham in the County of Lincolne , a Gentleman of a very great Estate , is the Son and Heir to Sir Thomas Ellis Baronet , and Nephew and Heir to the late Famous and Learned Judge , Sir William Ellis of Grays-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and several times one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in His now Majesties Reign : Both which , Sir Thomas , and Sir William , were the descendants of another Sir William Ellis Knight , who was also one of the Readers of Grays-Inn in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir Robert Hales of Beaksbourne in the County of Kent , Baronet , is descended from James Hales Esq ; , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Sixth . Sir Thomas Vernon of Hodnett in the County of Salop , Baronet , is descended from George Vernon of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of the said Society , afterwards one of the Barons of the Exchequer , and lastly , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James . Sir Robert Leicester of Nether Tabley in the County of Chester , Baronet , a person of a very fair Estate , and great Antiquity in those parts , is descended , by many Honourable Ancestors , from Roger de Leicester , one of the Barons of the Exchequer toward the later end of the Reign of King Edward the First . Sir John Knightly of Off-Church in the County of Warwick , Baronet , enjoys the Lordship of Off-Church , and other Lands of good worth in that County , as Heir to Sir Edmond Knightly of the Middle-Temple , Knight , a Learned Serjeant at Law , and one of the Readers of that House in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth ; which Sir Edmond was a younger Son to Sir Richard Knightly of Fawsely in the County of Northampton Knight . Sir John Bowyer of Knipersley in the County of Stafford , Baronet , a person of a very ample Fortune in those parts , is descended from Iohn Bowyer Esq ; , of great judgement in the Laws , and several times Reader of Lincolns-Inn , as also many years one of the Governors thereof , in the several Reigns of Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth . Sir Felix Wilde of St. Clement Danes , in the County of Middlesex , Baronet , is the Son and Heir to Sir William Wilde Knight and Baronet , Serjeant at Law , Recorder of the City of London , and lately one of the Learned Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench . Sir Iohn Wroth of Blenden-hall in the County of Kent , Baronet , is descended from Robert Wroth of Grays-Inn Esq ; Attorney of the Dutchy of Lancaster , in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir Iohn Anderson of Broughton in the County of Lincoln , Baronet , is descended from the memorable Sir Edmond Anderson of the Inner-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas for Twenty years together in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and so continued for some time in the Reign of King James . Sir Edward Ward of Bexley in the County of Norfolk , Baronet , is descended from Richard Ward of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Reader , as also Treasurer of that Society in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir John Jackson of Hickleton in the County of York , Baronet , is descended from Sir James Jackson Knight , one of the Readers of the Inner-Temple in the beginning of the Reign of King James . Sir William Rookeby of Skyers in the County of York . Baronet , is descended from Ralph Rookeby Esq ; , an Eminent Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , and twice Reader thereof in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir Walter Ernley of Itchilhampton and Salisbury in the County of Wilts , Baronet , is descended from Sir John Ernley Knight , Solicitor General to King Henry the Eighth ; by whom ( in the Tenth year of his Reign ) he was advanced to that great dignity of Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas. Sir Compton Read of Burton in the County of Berks , Baronet , is descended from John Read Esq ; , Serjeant at Law in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Fourth . Sir Walter Henly of Lunchfield in the County of Sussex , Baronet , is descended by a younger Son from Sir William Henley Knight , a Learned Lawyer of Grays-Inn , and one of the Readers of that House in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir Charles Golding of Colston-Bassett in the County of Nottingham , * Baronet , a person of great integrity and worth , is descended from Robert Golding Esq ; , a Learned Bencher of the Inner-Temple , and several times Reader of that Honourable Society in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir Charles Gawdy of Crowshall in the County of Suffolk , Knight and Baronet , is descended from two eminent persons of great knowledge and learning in the Laws , and both Readers in the Inner-Temple , the one was Sir Thomas-Gawdy Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; and the other was Francis Gawdy Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James . Sir John Curson of Waterpirry in the County of Oxon , Baronet , ( a Family of great honour and esteem ) is descended from Robert Curson Esq ; , Reader of the Society of Lincolns Inn in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , and afterwards made one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer by King Edward the Sixth , in the beginning of his short Reign . Sir William Glyn of Amersden near Bisseter , alias Burncester , in the County of Oxon , and of Hawarden Castle in Flintshire , Baronet , is the Son and Heir to that famous and wealthy Lawyer , John Glyn of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Vpper Bench in the time of the late unhappy troubles in this Kingdom . Sir Robert Brooke of Netton , in the County of Suffolk , Baronet , is descended from another Sir Robert Brook Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of the Middle-Temple , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Mary . Sir Henry Andrewes of Lathbury in the County of Bucks , Baronet , is descended from Eusebius Andrewes Esq ; , one of the Governors of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of King James ; and one of the Readers thereof in the beginning of the Reign of King Charles the first . Sir Henry Dereham of West-Dereham in the County of Norfolk , Baronet , a Family of long continuance there , is descended , by many honourable Ancestors , men of singular esteem and reputation , from Thomas Dereham Esq ; , a person of profound Learning in the Laws , and Attorney General to King Henry the Fourth . Sir Thomas Sylyard of Dela-Ware in the County of Kent , Baronet , is descended from John Sylyard of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Richard the Third , and from William Sylyard Esq ; , ( Son of the said John ) a person of eminent repute for his great abilities in the Law , and one of the Treasures of that honourable Society of Lincolns-Inn for many years , in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir Charles Hussey of Gaythorpe in the County of Lincoln , Baronet , is a descendant of the famous Sir William Hussey of Graies-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Sir John Bankes of Ailesford in the County of Kent , Baronet , is descended from Sir John Bankes of Grayes-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James . Sir Henry Ingoldsby of Lethenborow in the County of Bucks , Baronet , is descended from John Ingoldsby Esq ; , one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Sir Walter Young of Colliton in the County of Devon , Baronet , is descended from Thomas Young Esq ; , a Learned Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Sir Thomas Wyndham of Orchard Wyndham in the County of Somerset , Knight and Baronet , is descended from Francis Wyndham of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the One and twentieth year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; from which Francis , did also descend the late Learned and Loyal Wadham Wyndham of Lincolns-Inn aforesaid Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and made one of the Judges of the Court of Kings-Bench by His now Majesty , soon after his happy Restoration . Sir John Southcott of Witham in the County of Essex , and of Bliborrow in the County of Lincoln , Baronet , is descended from John Southcott of the Middle Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of that House , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of Queen Mary . Sir Richard Bacon of Gillingham in the County of Norfolk , Baronet ( Brother and Heir to Sir Edmond Bacon , Baronet , lately deceased ) is a younger branch , descended from the late memorable Sir Nicholas Bacon of Grayes-Inn Knight , Lord Keeper of the Great Seal of England in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , which Sir Nicholas was descended from Thomas de Bacon , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Sir Myles Stapleton of Carleton , in the County of York , Baronet , ( a Family of great Honour and Antiquity in the North ) is descended from Nicholas de Stapleton , one of the Judges of the Court of Kings-Bench in the beginning of the Reign of King Edward the First . Sir John Bernard of Brampton in the County of Huntington , Baronet , is the Son and Heir to Sir Robert Bernard Knight and Baronet , a person very famous for his great Judgement in the Laws of this Kingdom , in respect whereof , he was called to the degree of a Serjeant by His now Majesty , in the first year of His most happy Reign . Sir James Long of Draycott-Cerne in the County of Wilts , Baronet , is the Heir both to the Honour and Estate of Sir Robert Long of the City of Westminster , Baronet , deceased , late Auditor General of the Court of Exchequer . Sir George Reeve of Thwaites in the County of Suffolk , Knight and Baronet , is descended from Edmond Reeve Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and Reader of Grayes-Inn in the Reign of King Charles the First . Sir Thomas Brogave of Hammels , in the County of Hertford , Baronet , is descended from Sir John Brograve of Grayes-Inn Knight , one of the Readers thereof , and Attorney of the Dutchy of Lancaster in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth and King James . Sir William Cooke of Bromhall in the County of Norfolk , Baronet , is descended from William Cooke Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Readers of the Honourable Society of Grayes-Inn in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , and afterwards made a Judge of the Common-Pleas by King Edward the Sixth . Sir William Gawdy of West-Herting in the County of Norsolk , Baronet , is descended from that excellent Lawyer , Sir Thomas Gawdy Knight , one of the Readers of the Inner-Temple , in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , afterwards called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law , and constituted one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the beginning of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir Robert Barnham of Boughton-Montchensey in the County of Kent , Baronet , a Family of Signal Esteem , great Antiquity , and an ample Estate , is descended from Sir Walter Barnham Knight , Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King Richard the Second . Sir George Selby of Whitehouse in the Bishoprick of Durham , Baronet , is descended , through a continued course of Eminent Ancestors in that Northern Tract , from William de Selby , Attorney General to King Edward the first in the beginning of his Reign . Sir Edmond Fortescue of Fallowpitt , in the County of Devon , Baronet , is descended from Lewis Fortescue , one of the Readers of the Middle-Temple , as also a Serjeant at Law , and one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer in the latter end of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , which said Lewis was a younger Son of the Antient and Flourishing Family of the Fortescues of the West . Sir John Tempest of Tong in the County of York , Baronet , an Ancient Family in the North , is descended from Thomas Tempest , a famous Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , and divers times Reader of that Society in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir Littleton Osbaldeston of Chadlington , in the County of Oxon , Baronet , is descended from Richard Osbaldeston a person of eminent practice and great Judgment in the Law , and Reader of Grays Inn in the beginning of the Reign of his late Majesty , King Charles the First . Sir Gyles Tooker of Maddington , in the County of Wilts , Baronet , is descended from Gyles Tooker , one of the Readers , and one of the Governors of Grays-Inn in the beginning of the Reign of King James . Sir Stephen Anderson of Eyworth , in the County of Bedford , Baronet , is a descendant of the truly Honourable and Learned Sir Edmond Anderson of the Inner-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , who for above twenty Years successively in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and for sometime in the Reign of King James , sate in that great place of Lord Chief Justice of the Common Pleas. Sir Thomas Tayler of Parkhouse in the County of Kent , Baronet , is descended from Edward Yayler Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , in the Reign of King Charles the First . Sir Phillip Tyrell of Hanslape and Castlethorpe , in the County of Bucks , Baronet , is descended from Sir Thomas Tyrell of Castlethorpe aforesaid , and of the Inner-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas , in the beginning of his now Majesties Reign . Sir Abell Barker of Hambledon , in the County of Rutland , Baronet , is descended from Richard Barker Esq ; , a Learned Lawyer of Grays-Inn , and one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir Anthony Shirly of Preston , in the County of Sussex , Baronet , is descended from that Eminent Lawyer , Sir George Shirly Knight , Reader of the Middle-Temple , and afterwards Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench in Ireland in the Reign of King James ; which Sir George was a Branch of the Antient Family of the Shirlyes of Shirly in Derbyshire , Nether Ettendon in Warwickshire , and Stanton Harrold in Leicestershire , all which Lordships , with many more , are now the Inheritance of Robert Shirly , Lord Ferrers of Chartly . Sir Goddard Nelthrope of Burton , in the County of Lincoln , Baronet , is the Son and Heir to Sir John Nelthrope Baronet , a Lawyer of very considerable note , and of the Society of Grays-Inn in His now Majesties Reign . Sir Roger Twisden of Bradburne near East-Malling , in the County of Kent , Baronet , is the Son and Heir to the late Reverend and Learned Judge , and most Excellent Lawyer , Sir Thomas Twisden of the Inner-Temple , and of Bradburne aforesaid , Knight and Baronet , Serjeant at Law , and for above Twenty years together one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench , till through the greatness of Age , and the infirmities of his Body , he obtained His Majesties leave to retire from the Affairs of the Bench , and spend the short remainder of his days in Peace , whereupon he betook himself to a private Life at his Mannor of Bradburne , and there soon expired , in the Eighty first year of his Age. Sir Gilbert Gerrard of Fiskerton , in the County of Lincoln , Baronet , is descended by a younger Son from Sir Gilbert Gerrard of Grays-Inn Knight , Reader thereof in the Reign of Queen Mary , and afterwards made Attorney General , and Master of the Rolls by Queen Elizabeth . Sir Roger Martyn of Long-Melford , in the County of Suffolk , Baronet , is descended from Roger Martyn Esq ; , one of the Rea●ers , as also one of the Governors of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . Sir Orlando Bridgeman of Ridley , in the County of Chester , Baronet , is the second Son to the late famous Sir Orlando Bridgeman of the Inner-Temple , Knight and Baronet , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas , and lastly Lord Keeper of the great Seal of England ; which said Sir Orlando the Father was descended from John Bridgeman of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Chief Justice of Chester in the Reign of King James . Sir Francis Wyndham of Trent , in the County of Somerset , Baronet , is descended from Francis Wyndham Esq ; , a Learned and profound Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law , and constituted one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas by Queen Elizabeth . Sir Arthur Onslow of West-Clandon in the County of Surry , Baronet , ( in revection expectant upon the Death of Sir Thomas Foot Baronet ) is descended from Richard Onslow Esq ; , a Reader of the Inner-Temple in the beginning of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , which Richard was a Branch of the ancient Stock of the Onslowes of Shropshire . Sir Thomas Rich of Sonden , in the County of Essex , Baronet , is descended from Sir Richard Rich , Knight , Reader of the Middle-Temple , and Solicitor General to King Henry the Eighth ; afterwards created Baron Rich of Leez in Essex , and constituted Lord High Chancellor of England by King Edward the Sixth . Sir Jobn Hoskins of Harwood in the County of Hereford , Baronet , one of the Masters of the High Court of Chancery , is descended from Bennet Hoskins Esq ; , a Learned Lawyer , and one of the Readers of the Middle-Temple , in the Reign of King Charles the First . Sir Francis Willoughby of Wollaton-Hall , in the County of Nottingham , and of Middleton , in the County of Warwick , Baronet , is directly descended from Sir Thomas Willoughby of Lincolns Inn , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth : which said Sir Thomas was a younger Son to Christopher Lord Willoughby of Eresby , and married with the only Daughter and Heir to Sir Robert Read Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh , from which said Sir Thomas , descended Sir Percevall Willoughby Knight , who in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , did intermarry with one of the Daughters and Heirs to Sir Francis Willoughby then of Wollaton aforesaid , Knight , descended from Sir Richard de Willoughby Knight , Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Sir John Newdigate of Erdbury , in the County of Warwick , Baronet , is Son and Heir to the late Famous and Wealthy Sir Richard Newdigate of Erdbury and Lincolns-Inn , Baronet , Serjeant at Law , who was lineally descended from John Newdigate , Reader of the same Society in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh , and made a Serjeant at Law by King Henry the Eighth . Sir James Poole of Poole , in the County of Chester Baronet , a person of singular Repute and Worth , and of a very Honourable Family in this County , is descended from Ralph Pool Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . Sir Thomas Skipwith , of Methringham , in the County of Lincoln , and of Grays-Inn , Knight and Baronet , Serjeant at Law , a Gentleman of an excellent Family , is descended from William de Skipwith Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Barons of the Exchequer , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Sir Roger Bradshaw of Haigh in the County of Lancaster , Knight and Baronet , is descended from Henry Bradshaw of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof , Attorney General , and Lord Chief Baron of His Majesties Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , branched out of the Ancient Family of Bradshaw of Bradshaw in the said County . Sir Thomas Parkins of Bonney in the County of Nottingham , Baronet , is lineally descended from Richard Parkins of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Recorder of the Towns of Leicester and Nottingham , and a Lawyer of great Note in those Counties , in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir John Crooke of Shilton in the County of Buckingham , Baronet , is descended from Sir John Crooke of the Middle-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , Recorder of the City of London , Speaker of the House of Commons , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King James . The time of the Creation of this Sir John to the Dignity of a Baronet , I cannot at present find ; and therefore I place him here till I can be certified of his due precedencey . Sir Thomas Gascoigne of Barnbow in the County of York , Baronet of Scotland , is descended , by many renowned Ancestors , persons of great Interest in those parts , from the famous Sir William Gascoigne of Grays-Inn , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench , in the Second year of the Reign of King Henry the Fourth . Sir John Lowther of Lowther-Hall in the County of Westmorland , and of Newton-Reigney in the County of Cumberland , Baronet of Scotland , is descended from Thomas de Lowther ; one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Knights . THE Right Honourable Sir William Mountague of Croft in the County of Lincoln , Knight , and of the Honourable Society of the Middle-Temple , Serjeant at Law , formerly Attorney General to Her most Gracious Majesty Queen Katharine , and at this time Lord Chief Baron of His Majesties Court of Exchequer , having been most worthily advanced to that great dignity in April 1676. and there sate with great Honour and Prudence in the worst of times , executing the trust reposed in him with that equality and Justice , that the poisonous Tongues of factious and malevolent persons ( of late so forward in aspersing His Majesties Ministers of publick Justice ) never once found the least imaginary foundation whereby they might vent their mallice upon this Honourable person , honourable in his place of Judicature , but much more in Blood , as being the Son of Edward , and Brother of Edward , both late Lords Mountague of Boughton , and great Grandson to that famous Lawyer , Sir Edward Mountague of the Middle Temple Knight , Serjant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of both Benches in the Reign of King Henry the 8th , and Edward the Sixth , being first of the Kings-Bench , and then of the Common Pleas. Sir John Ernley of Buriton in the County of Wilts , and of Much-Marcle in the County of Hereford , Knight , sometime since Chancellor and Under-Treasurer of the Court of Exchequer , and at present one of the Commissioners of His Majesties Treasury , is descended from Sir John Ernley of Grays-Inn Knight , Solicitor General to King Henry the Seventh , and afterwards in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , he was created a Serjeant at Law , and made Attorney General to that Prince , and afterwards Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas . Sir Hugh Wyndham of Sylton in the County of Dorset , and of Lincolns-Inn Knight , was called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law in the year 1653. but not owning the Authority whereby he was so called , His present Majesty , in the first year of his most happy Restoration , directed his Writ to this great and famous Lawyer , to call him to the said dignity ; after which , in the year 1672. he was made one of the Barons of the Exchequer , where he sate Two years , and then was further advanced to the Common-Pleas , and continues one of the Justices of that Court to this day : He is descended from Francis Wyndham of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , a person of great Learning and Judgement in the Law ; in respect whereof , the said Francis was first made a Serjeant , and afterwards one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth : Which said Sir Hugh Wyndham is like to terminate in Two Daughters and Heirs , who are very honourably advanced in Marriage , the one to John Digby the present Earl of Bristol , and the other to Sir Nathaniel Napper of Dorsetshire , Knight and Baronet . The Reverend Sir Job Charleton of Whitton in the County of Sallop , Knight , Serjeant at Law , lately Chief Justice of Chester , and now one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , is descended of the Ancient and Honourable Family of the Charletons of Shropshire , who deduce their descent from Sir Robert de Charleton Knight , a person of profound Judgement and Knowledge in the Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Richard the Second . The Honourable Sir Edward Atkins of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Barons of His Majesties Court of Exchequer , is a younger Son of that Eminent Lawyer Sir Edward Atkins Knight , Serjeant at Law , Reader of the said Honourable Society in the Reign of King Charles the First , and afterwards one of the Barons of the same Court ; which Sir Edward the Father , was the Son and Heir of Richard Atkins Esq ; , Reader of that House in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and Chief Justice of North-Wales ; and the Son and Heir to Thomas Atkins Esq ; , another Learned Member of Lincolns-Inn , and twice Reader thereof , in the Reigns of King Henry the Eighth and Edward the Sixth . Sir Richard May of the City of Chichester , in the County of Sussex , Knight , now the puisne Baron of the Exchequer , is descended from Sir Humphry May Knight , Master of the Rolls in the Reign of King Charles the first . Sir Robert Sawyer of the Inner-Temple , and of Lawrence Waltham in the County of Berks , Knight , His Majesties Attorney General , whose great Loyalty , and profound Judgement and Abilities in the Law , are sufficiently conspicuous to the World , by his prudent management of Affairs of great import to his Prince , and couragiously effecting the same , in a time when Fidelity and Loyalty were branded with reproach and Infamy ; and to serve His Majesty , was looked upon as a disservice to his people , by such whose endeavours tended wholly to the subversion of all Civil Government and Society : Notwithstanding which , and the affronts of the Faction , did this most worthy Gentleman faithfully adhere to the Service of his Prince in those distracted times . He is the Son and Heir of Sir Edmond Sawyer of the same Society , Knight , deceased , late one of the Auditors of the Court of Exchequer . Sir John Franklyn of Lincolns-Inn Knight , one of the Masters of the Honourable Court of Chancery , is descended from Nicholas Franklyn Esq ; , a Learned Lawyer of that Society , and one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Charles the First . Sir Robert Henley of Northington in the County of Southampton , and of the Inner-Temple , Knight , Master of the Kings-Bench-Office , a Place of great Honour and Profit , is descended from Sir William Henley Knight , Reader of Grays-Inn , and a person very eminent for his great Learning in the Laws , in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir John Heath of Brastead in the County of Kent , and of the Inner-Temple Knight , His Majesties Attorney General of the Dutchy of Lancaster , is descended from that great Lawyer Sir Robert Heath Knight , one of the Readers of that House , and Solicitor General to King James ; after which , in the Reign of King Charles the First , he was Recorder of the City of London , Attorney General to that Prince , who called him to the dignity of a Serjeant at Law , and then advanced him to the Honour of Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas . Sir Edward Turner of Little Paringdon , and Hollingbury in the County of Essex Knight , is the Son and Heir to the late Famous and Learned Judge , Sir Edward Turner of Little Parringdon aforesaid , and of the Middle-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , Speaker of the Honourable House of Commons , and Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer , which Sir Edward was the Son and Heir to Arthur Turner of the same Society Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and he the second Son of Edward Turner of Paringdon aforesaid , and of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , a person very Eminent for his Learning and practice in the Law , in the Reign of King James . Sir William Scroggs of Southweal , in the County of Essex , and of the Society of Grays-Inn , Knight , one of His most Gracious Majesties Council , Learned in the Laws , is the Son and Heir apparent to the Learned and Memorable Sir William Scroggs of the same Society , Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , and thence removed to that great Honour of Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench , where he sate not long , but the clamours of the Faction , backed by some haughty Members of the House of Commons , found a means to get him removed from the said Dignity , nor would their malice have ended there , had not the Dissolutions of those hot Spirited men so fortunately ensued , whereby his Enemies became dispersed . Sir Robert Atkins of Sapperton , in the County of Glocester , of Totteridge , in the County of Middlesex , and of Lincolns-Inn , Knight of the Honourable order of the Bath , Serjeant at Law , lately Recorder of the City of Bristol , and before that time one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , is the Son and Heir to Sir Edward Atkins Knight , Serjeant at Law , Reader of Lincolns-Inn in his late Majesties Reign , and since one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer , soon after this Kings most happy Restoration . Sir John Brampston of Screnes , in the County of Essex , Knight of the Bath , and High Steward of the Burough of Malden , is directly descended from that able Lawyer , Sir John Brampston Knight , one of the Readers of the Middle-Temple , in the Reign of King James , by whom he was called to the Degree of a Serjeant at Law , and by King Charles the First advanced to the place of Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas . Sir Francis Popham of Little coat , in the County of Somerset , Knight of the Bath , a person of a very plentiful Fortune , and a worthy Family , is descended from that Eminent and Judicious Lawyer , Sir John Popham of the Middle-Temple , Knight , Reader of that Society , Serjeant at Law , Solicitor and Attorney General to Queen Elizabeth , who afterwards made him Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench , which great Trust was also reposed in him by King James . Sir Edward Sylyard of Wetherden in the County of Suffolk , Knight , is descended , through many Honourable Ancestors , from John Sylyard of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , one of the Readers of that House in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth , by whom he was called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law , and by King Richard the Third made one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench , whose Son and Heir William Sylyard Esq ; , was an Eminent and Learned Lawyer of the said Honourable Society , and for many years one of the Benchers and Governours thereof , in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir Robert Howard of Vasterne , in the County of Wilts , and of St. Margarets Westminster , in the County of Middlesex , Knight , ( of the Noble Blood of the Howards , and a younger Branch of the House of Berkshire ) is descended from the Learned William Howard Esq ; , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reigns of King Edward the First and Second . Sir Thomas Yarborough of Snaith , in the West-Riding of Yorkshire , Knight , a person of a very plentiful Fortune in those parts , is descended from Francis Yarborough Esq ; , a famous Lawyer of Lincolns Inn , and one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir William Hoskins of Oxtead , in the County of Surry , Knight , is descended from John Hoskins of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof , and called to the degree of a Serjeant by King James . Sir Nevill Catlyn of Darsham-Hall , in the County of Suffolk , Knight , is descended from Richard Catlyn Esq ; , Reader of Lincolns-Inn , and made a Serjeant at Law by Queen Mary . A Contemporary with this Richard ; and of the same Society and Family was that profound Lawyer , Sir Robert Catlyn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench , who leaving one only Daughter and Heir , She by her intermarriage with Sir John Spencer of Althorpe in the County of Northamptom , and of Wormleighton , in the County of Warwick , Knight , annexed a considerable estate to that worthy Family , from whom Robert Spencer the present Earl of Sunderland , and Mr. Spencer of Ashton in Lancashire are lineally descended . Sir Richard Ingoldsby of Walridge , in the County of Bucks , Knight of the Bath , is descended from John Ingoldsby Esq ; , a person very well read in the Laws , and one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Sir Thomas Engham of Godmingston , in the County of Kent , Knight , is descended from Ralph de Hengham or Engham , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , in the Reigns of King-Henry the Third and Edward the First . Sir Thomas Harvey of the Town of St. Edmonds-bury , in the County of Suffolk , Knight , is descended from the late famous and profound Lawyer , Sir Francis Harvey Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of the Middle-Temple in the Reign of King James , and afterwards one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas . Sir Thomas Forster , of Egham , in the County of Surry , Knight , is descended from William Forster Esq ; , Reader of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , after which , in respect of his great Learning and Abilities , he was made a Serjeant at Law. Sir Thomas Estcourt of St. Dunstans in the West , London , and of Pinckney , in the County of Wilts , Knight , is the Son and Heir to Sir Thomas Estcourt Knight deceased , late one of the Masters of the Hononrable Court of Chancery , who was descended from Edmond Estcourt Esq ; , one of the Benchers of Lincolns-Inn , and Reader thereof in the Reign of King James . Sir George Crooke of Waterstocke , in the County of Oxon , Knight , is the lineal Heir , and Eldest male branch , descended from the Learned Sir John Crooke of Waterstocke aforesaid , Knight , and of the Middle-Temple , Serjeant at Law , Speaker of the House of Commons , Recorder of the City of London , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King James . Sir Nicholas Bacon of Shrubland Hall , in the County of Suffolk , Knight of the Honourable order of the Bath , is descended , by a younger Son , from that famous Lawyer , Sir Nicholas Bacon of Grays-Inn , Knight , Attorney of the Court of Wards and Liveries , and Lord Keeper of the great Seal of England in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir Thomas Stephens of Little Sadbury , in the County of Glocester Knight , a person of a signal Repute and an ample Fortune , is descended from Thomas Stephens Esq ; , an Eminent Practicer in the Law , and Attorney General to Henry Prince of Wales , after whose Decease he Executed the like Office to Prince Charles , ( afterwards King Charles the First . ) Sir Francis Brampston of the Middle-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of that Society , and lately one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer , is also descended from Sir John Brampston Knight , one of the Readers of that Honourable House , one of His Majesties Serjeants at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Charles the First . Sir Bulstrode Whitlocke of Chilton Park , in the County of Wilts , Knight ; a person of an ample Fortune , is the Son and Heir to Bulstrode Whitlocke of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , a man of great Note in the late miserable distractions of this Kingdom , being one of the Commissioners of the great Seal , and one of the prime favourers of the Factions so predominant in those unhappy Days , he being commonly called Bulstrode Lord Whitlock . Sir Henry Wood of Lowdham-Hall , in the County of Suffolk , Knight , of an Ancient and worthy Family in that County , is descended from the Learned Sir Thomas Wood Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . Sir Edward Ascough of North Kelsey , in the County of Lincoln , Knight , High Sheriff of the said County , is directly descended , by many worthy Ancestors , from Sir William Ascough Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth ; by which Sir William , was this worthy Family greatly advanced . Sir John Pooley of Boxtead , in the County of Suffolk Knight , a Family of great Antiquity and Esteem in that County , a great advancer whereof was John Pooley , a Learned Lawyer , and one of the Readers of Grayes-Inn in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , Lineal Ancestor to this Honourable person . Sir John Knivet of Ketringham in the County of Norfolk , Knight of the Bath , is descended from John Knivet Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , first , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , and afterwards constituted Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench by King Edward the Third . Sir John Clopton of Clopton , in the County of Warwick , Knight , a Family of Eminent quallity , and long continuance at Clopton aforesaid , is descended from Walter de Clopton Esq ; , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Edward the Third , and advanced to the Dignity of Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench by King Richard the Second . Sir John Coventry of Pit-Minster , in the County of Somerset , and of Mere in the County of Wilts , Knight of the Honourable Order of the Bath , is descended from Thomas Coventry of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common Pleas in the Reign of King James's Father , of the Famous Thomas Lord Coventry , first a Member of the said Society , and afterward Lord Keeper of the great Seal . Sir Henry Fitz-James of in the County of Essex , Knight , is descended from John Fitz-James of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , Sir Robert Crooke of Chekers , in the County of Bucks , Knight , is a Branch of the Honourable Family of the Crooks of Waterstocke in Oxfordshire , descended from Sir John Crooke of the Middle-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas for many years in the Reign of King James . Sir Peter Ball of Mynehead in the County of Devon , Knight , is descended from Sir Peter Ball Knight , a late worthy Member of the Middle-Temple , and Attorney General to her late Majesty Mary the Queen Mother . Sir Anthony Browne of Chig well in the County of Essex , Knight , is descended from that eminent and Learned Lawyer , Sir Anthony Browne of the Middle-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the several Reigns of Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth . Sir William Fleetwood of Woodstock in the County of Oxon , Knight , is descended from William Fleetwood Esq ; , a Learned Lawyer of the Middle-Temple , several times Reader of that Society , and Recorder of the City of London in the time of Queen Elizabeth . Sir Robert Clench of Cretinghall in the County of Suffolk , Knight , is descended from that famous and eminent Lawyer of Lincolus-Inn , John Clench Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Barons of the Exchequer , and afterwards one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir John Mallett of St. Andrews in West-Quantox-head , in the County of Somerset Knight , Recorder of the Town of Bridgewater in the said County , is the Son and Heir to Thomas Mallett of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of His late Majesty , where he sate , till for his Loyalty to that Prince , he was forced to retire , but His Majesty , upon his most happy Restoration , re-advanced him to the same dignity . Sir Philip Howard of Sissinghurst , in the County of Kent , Knight , is a younger Branch of the House of Carlisle , of the Noble Blood , and numerous Family of the Howards , descended from Sir William Howard Knight , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the first , as before is expressed . Sir Drue Drury of Rougham , in the County of Suffolk , Knight is descended from Robert Drury of Lincolns Inn , Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof , Speaker of the House of Commons , and a person of singular Note and Esteem in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . Sir Edward Chisnall of Chisnall in the County of Lancaster , Knight , is descended from Richard Chisnall Esq ; , a Learned Lawyer , and one of the Readers of Grays-Inn , in the beginning of Queen Elizabeths Reign . This is a Family of great antiquity and repute in this County for many Generations before this eminent person ; yet did he make a very considerable addition to the Ancient Inheritance of his Ancestors . Sir Dudly North of the City of London , Knight and Alderman , is descended from Edward North ( afterwards Lord North ) a person of great judgement in the Laws , and Treasurer of the Court of Augmentations in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir Francis Wingate of Harlington in the County of Bedford , Knight , is descended from that Learned Gentleman Edmond Wingate of Grays-Inn Esq ; , Author of that Excellent Book Intituled Wingate's Maxims . Sir Gilbert Ireland of the Hutt and Beausey in the County of Lancaster , Knight , a person of great Integrity and Honour , and of an Ample Fortune , is descended from Sir Thomas Ireland Knight , Reader of Grays-Inn , and Vice Chamberlayn of the County Palatine of Chester in the time of King James . Sir Richard Piggott of Dedershall in the County of Bucks , Knight , is descended from Thomas Piggott Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of the Inner-Temple in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir John Walpole of Dunston in the County of Lincoln , Knight , a person of exemplary Loyalty and singular Repute , is directly descended from John Walpole of Grays-Inn Esq ; , Reader thereof , and called to the degree of a Serjeant by Queen Mary . Sir Thomas Scott of Scots-hall in the County of Kent , Knight , is descended , by many Honourable Ancestors of signal Renown and Quality in this County , from William Scott Esq ; , Serjeant at Law first , one of the Justices , and afterwards Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Third : A descendant also of which William , was that great Lawyer Sir John Scott Knight , Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir William Carleton of Carleton in the County of Cumberland , Knight , a Family of great Antiquity , is descended from William de Carleton Esq ; , Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King Edward the first . Sir Walter Moyle of Bake in the County of Cornwall , Knight , is descended from Walter Moyle Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common Pleas in the time of King Henry the Sixth . Sir Robert Pye of Farrindon in the County of Berks , Knight , is descended from Sir Walter Pye of the Middle-Temple , Knight , Attorney General of the Court of Wards and Liveries , and one of the Readers of that Honourable Society in the time of King James . Sir John Arderne of Arderne in the County of Chester , Knight , is descended from Sir Peter Arderne of Arderne aforesaid , Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the time of King Henry the Sixth , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the first year of the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Sir John Zouch of Codnor in the County of Derby , Knight , ( of the Noble Family of the Ancient Lords Zouch , ) is descended from Alan-le-Zouch , Lord Chief Justice of England in the Reign of King Henry the Third . Sir John Archer of Theydon Garron in the County of Essex , Knight , is the Son and Heir to John Archer Esq ; deceased , Serjeant at Law , and lately one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , a person of great Judgement in the Laws . Sir Lumley Robinson of the Inner-Temple , Knight , is the Son and Heir to the late unfortunate Gentleman Sir Thomas Robinson of the same Society , Knight , one of the Prothonotories of the Court of Common-Pleas , which said Sir Thomas had the hard fate to lose his Life in August last ; For a sudden Fire breaking forth in or near his Chamber , he , to avoid the fury and violence of the Flames , adventured to leap out at his Chamber Window , and thereby ( being a very corpulent Man ) so bruised his body , that he soon expired , leaving a great Estate to this worthy Gentleman . Sir Charles Caesar of Bennington Place in the County of Hertford , Knight , is the direct and eldest Male Branch , descended from Sir Julius Caesar Knight , Master of the Rolls in the Reign of King James , Father of Sir Charles Caesar Knight , also Master of the Rolls in the Reign of His late Majesty King Charles the First . Sir Philip Boteler of Wotton-Woodhall in the County of Hertford , Knight of the Bath , is descended from Sir John Boteler of Lincolns-Inn , Knight , Serjeant at Law in the time of King Henry the Seventh , and constituted one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas by King Henry the Eighth . Sir Thomas Daniel of Beswick in the County of York , Knight , is descended from William Daniell of Grays-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of that honourable House in the time of Queen Elizabeth , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James ; which William was a younger Son of the Ancient and worthy Family of the Daniels of Over-Tabley in Cheshire , where they have flourished for many Ages in great repute , and still remain in the name and person of thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley aforesaid , Esq ; . Sir William Coventry of St. Martins in the Fields in the County of Middlesex , Knight , a person of great Prudence and excellent parts , is one of the younger Sons of Thomas Lord Coventry , Lord Keeper of the great Seal of England . Sir John Henden of Biddenden in the County of Kent , Knight , is descended from Edward Henden Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Readers of Grays-Inn in the Reign of King James , and afterwards made one of the Barons of the Exchequer by King Charles the First . Sir Robert Owen of Tundover in the County of Salop , Knight , is descended from that Famous and Learned Lawyer Thomas Owen Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the honourable Benchers of Lincolns Inn , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir Francis Clerke of the City of Rochester , and of Vlcombe in the County of Kent , Knight , is descended from Henry Clerke of Rochester aforesaid , and of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Readers of that House in the Reign of King Charles the First , which Henry was a younger Branch of the worthy Family of the Clerks of Willough by in the County of Warwick , persons of great esteem and plentiful fortune . Sir Francis Rolles of Shapwick in the County of Somerset , and of East-Tedderley in the County of Southampton , Knight , a Gentleman of an Ample Fortune in these Western Counties , is descended from the late Learned and most Excellent Lawyer Henry Roll Esq ; , Reader of the Inner-Temple , and called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law by His Majesty of Blessed Memory ; after which , in the times of the late Rebellion , being no great Enemy to the predominant factions of this miserable Kingdom , then Governing , he was pleased to accept of that great Office of Lord Chief Justice of the Vpper Bench , which he executed under the Authority of the late Traytor and Usurper Oliver Cromwell , and was the Author of those Learned Vollumes , intituled Rolls Reports and Rolls Abridgement . Sir Roger Hill of Wesdon in the County of Bucks , Knight , is descended from Roger Hill Esq ; , called to the dignity of a Serjeant at Law in the year 1655. by the same Usurped Powers next above mentioned , and further advanced to sit as one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer then in being . Sir Charles Littleton of St. Martins in the Fields , in the County of Middlesex , Knight , a person of renowned Vallour , and Military Conduct ( and younger Brother , and Heir apparent to Sir Henry Littleton of Frankly in the County of Worcester , Baronet , ) is descended from Sir Thomas Littleton of the Inner-Temple , and of Frankley aforesaid , Knight of the Bath , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Sir Marmaduke Dalton of in the North Riding of Yorkshire , Knight , is descended from James Dalton Esq ; , a Learned and skilful Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , and one of the Benchers of that House in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , Author of several Learned Books now extant . Sir Mondiford Brampston of Woodham-Walter in the County of Essex , and of the Middle-Temple , Knight , lately one of the Masters of the High and Honourable Court of Chancery , is descended from the late famous Sir John Brampston of the said Society , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of His late Majesty King Charles . Sir Thomas Overbury of Burton upon the Hill , in the County of Glocester , Knight , is descended from Sir Nicholas Overbury , Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of the Middle-Temple , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James . The eldest Son of which Sir Nicholas , was that Ingenuous Gentleman Sir Thomas Overbury Knight , Poisoned in the Tower of London during his Imprisonment , by the procurement and contrivance of Robert Carr , Earl of Somerset ( a great Favourite to King James ▪ ) and his Countess . Sir Edward Challoner of Gisburgh , in the North Riding of the County of York , Knight , is descended from Robert Challoner Esq ; , a person eminent for his Learning in the Laws , and one of the Readers of Grays-Inn in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir Robert Rich of Horndon in the County of Essex , Knight , is a younger Branch of the Noble Family of Rich , Earls of Warwick , descended from Richard Rich of the Middle-Temple , Esq ; , one of the Readers of that Society in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , afterwards created a Peer of this Realm , and constituted Lord High Chancellor of England . Sir William Vnderhill of Idlicote in the County of Warwick , Knight , is descended from William Vnderhill of Idlicote aforesaid , and of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , an eminent practicer of the Law in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , by means whereof , he raised a considerable Estate in this County , which his posterity now enjoys , he himself being a younger Son of Edward Vnderhill of Nether-Etendon in this County Esq ; , where the eldest Branch of this Family now maketh his residence . Sir Edward Griffin of Dingley in the County of Northampton , Knight , a Family of great Honour and Interest in that County ▪ and possessor of a very plentiful Estate , is descended from Sir Edward Griffin of Dingly , Knight , one of the Readers of Lincolns-Inn , and Solicitor General in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , also Attorney General to Edward the Sixth , and Queen Mary . Sir Robert Townsend of the City of Coventry in the County of Warwick , Knight , is descended from Sir Robert Townsend of Ludlow in the County of Salop , Knight , Reader of Lincolns-Inn , Chief Justice of all Wales , and called to the degree and dignity of a Serjeant at Law by King Henry the Eighth . Sir Humphry Sydenham of Dulverton in the County of Somerset , Knight , is de●sended from Richard de Sydenham Esq ; , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the beginning of the Reign of King Richard the Second , this is a Family of great Antiquity , and of Signal note in these Western Counties . Sir Edward Rich of Milburton in the County of Norfolk , Knight , is descended from Richard Rich of the Middle-Temple Esque , Chyrographer of the Court of Common-Pleas , Reader of the said Society , and Lord High Chancellor of England , in the several Reigns of King Henry the Eighth and Edward the Sixth . Sir Edward Philips of Mountacute in the County of Somerset , Knight , is descended from the Learned Sir Edward Philips of the Inner-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of that Honourable Society , and thence advanced to that great Office of Master of the Rolls by his late Majesty King James . Sir Thomas Colepeper of Hollingbourne in the County of Kent , Knight , is descended from John Colepeper Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Learned Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Fifth . Sir Christopher Calthorpe of Basham in the County of Norfolk , Knight of the Bath , is descended from the late Learned Sir Henry Calthorpe of the Middle-Temple , Knight , one of the Readers thereof , and Attorney of the Court of Wards and Liveries in His late Majesties Reign ; this is a Family , which for many Generations have flourished in great splendor , and Executed many Honourable Offices relating to this County : Nevertheless did this Sir Henry , by his great Prudence and eminent Practice , together with the profits arising out of the Court of Wards , in a great measure augment the ancient Inheritance of his Ancestors . Sir Stephen Hales now or late of Newland , and Snitfield in the County of Warwick , Knight of the Bath , is descended from Sir Charles Hales of Newland aforesaid , and of Grays-Inn , Knight , one of the Readers of that Society , and one of her Majesties Council in the North in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Sir James Altham of Latton , in the County of Essex , Knight of the Bath , is descended from Sir James Altham , Knight , one of the Readers of Grays-Inn in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and afterwards called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law , and made one of the Barons of the Exchequer by King James . Sir George Carey of Dorr-Abby in the County of Devon , Knight , is descended in a lineal course of many renowned Ancestors , from John Carey of Hollway in the County of Devon , Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Richard the Second , from which John , by a younger Branch , did descend John Carey , late Earl of Dover , and Robert Carey , late Earl of 〈◊〉 Monmouth , both lately terminated and extinguished in Female Heirs , ( the too common Fate and utter Ruin of many great Families of this Kingdom . ) Sir William York of Burton-Pedwardine in the County of Lincoln , Knight , is descended from Roger York Esq ; , a Learned Lawyer of Grays Inn , and one of the Readers of that Ancient and Honourable Society in the Fifteenth year of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Sir William Bastard of West-Allington in the County of Devon , Knight , a person of great Loyalty and Repute , is descended from that able and Learned practicer of the Laws , William Bastard Esq ; , one of the Readers of the Middle-Temple in the Reign of King James . Sir Robert Cary of Clovel in the County of Devon , Knight , is also a younger Branch , descended from John Cary of Hollway aforesaid Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Richard the Second , which John was of the Ancient Family of Cary , of Cary in the said County , and indeed the prime Branch thereof . Esquires . I Shall begin the Catalogue of those of this dignity , with the Honourable Heneage Finch of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , a person endowed with all the accomplishments that Learning and Education can afford , and a most Excellent Ornament of the Laws ; in the Studdy whereof , he hath already arrived to so great perfection , that his most gracious Majesty , as a mark of his Royal Favour , hath been pleased to make choice of him to execute the Office of his Solicitor General , being but an entrance to those future preferments which his great Learning , Loyalty and Elloquence do most justly intitle him to . He is the Second Son of the late Famous and most Incomparable Lawyer , Heneage Earl of Nottingham , Lord High Chancellor of England , and the true inheritor of his great Abilities and Judgement , who ( as in the Catalogue of the Nobility I have there mentioned ) was the Son and Heir of another great Lawyer of the same Society , namely Sir Heneage Finch Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Recorder of the City of London , a younger Son of Sir Thomas Finch , and Brother to Thomas Finch Earl of Winchelsea . Roger North of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , Chief Justice of Chester , and one of His Majesties Learned Council in the Law , is a younger Brother to the Right Honourable Francis Lord North , Lord Keeper of the Great Seal of England , Sons of Dudley , late Lord North of Carthlidge , who was descended from Edward Lord North , a person eminently Learned in the Laws , and Treasurer of the Court of Augmentations in the Reigns of Henry the Eighth , Edward the Sixth , and Queen Mary . Evan Seys of the City of Gloucester , and of Boverton in the County of Glamorgan Esq ; , several times one of the Members of Parliament for the said City , was called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law by the Arch-Traytor Oliver Cromwell , in the year 1656 , and again , by his present Majesty in the year 1660. which said Evan Seys ( being by Birth of the Ancient British Race ) is descended from Roger Seys of Boverton aforesaid , a Man of great Note , and Attorney General of the whole Principality of Wales in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Tristram Coniers of the Middle Temple , Serjeant at Law , and of Walthamstow in the County of Essex Esq ; , a person of great Judgement and knowledge in the Law , is descended from William Coniers Esq ; , a Learned Member of the said honourable Society , and one of the Readers thereof in the beginning of the Reign of King Charles the First . Gyles Strangwaies of Melbury-Samford in the County of Dorset Esq ; , a Gentleman of a very fair Estate , is the direct descendant of James Strangwaies Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the several Reigns of King Henry the Fifth and Sixth . John Caryll of Harting in the County of Sussex Esq ; , a person of great Learning and Integrity , is the eldest Malebranch , directly descended from Sir John Caryll of Harting aforesaid , and of the Inner-Temple Knight , one of the Readers of that Honourable Society in the Thirty Sixth year of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , after which , by Queen Mary , in the Second year of her Reign , he was called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law , and lastly by Queen Elizabeth was constituted her Attorney of the Dutchy of Lancaster ; which Sir John Caryll , was the Son and Heir to the no less famous and learned John Caryll of the Inner-Temple aforesaid Esq ; , advanced to the like dignity of a Serjeant at Law by King Henry the Eighth , in the Second year of his Reign ; by which two great Sages of the Law , was considerable part of the Estate of this Honourable Family raised , which remains to their Posterity at this day . Francis Plowden of Shiplake in the County of Oxon Esq ; , and Cotton Plowden of the City of London , Gentleman , are lineally descended from that famous and excellent Lawyer of his time , Edmond Plowden , originally of Plowden-Hall in the County of Salop ( a Family of great Antiquity there ) and of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of Queen Mary , by whom he was called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law , whose Learned Works now extant , do sufficiently evidence his great Abilities . Thomas Markham of Allerton in the County of Nottingham , Esque , a person of great Integrity and Repute , is the Son and Heir to the late valiant and Loyal Thomas Markham of Allerton aforesaid Esq ; , who discerning the Flames of Rebellion breaking forth upon this Kingdom , which threatned no less then those Miseries and Calamities which afterwards befel this distressed Nation , did Cordially put himself in Arms on the behalf of His late Majesty , in whose Service he was slain , at Gainsburgh in Lincolnshire , fighting stoutly against the Parliament forces , in the year 1643. to the no small diminution of his Estate ; which Thomas was descended , by many Ancestors of the greatest note in this County , from Sir John Markham , Knight , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Fourth , and he the Son of Robert Markham and Grandson of John Markham , both Eminent Lawyers . John Lukener of West-Dean in the County of Sussex , Esq ; , a Gentleman of a very ample Fortune , is descended from Sir Roger Lukener , Knight , one of the Readers of the Middle-Temple , and made a Serjeant at Law by Queen Elizabeth in the latter end of her Reign , which Sir Roger was descended from Geffrey de Lukener , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the beginning of the Reign of King Edward the First . John Stoner of Stoner in the County of Oxon Esq ; , a Family of great Honour and Antiquity in this County , is descended from John de Stoner Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer ; and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reigns of King Edward the Second , and Edward the Third . Thomas Sympson of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to the late Learned and Judicious Sir John Sympson of the same Society , Knight , one of His Majesties Serjeants at Law , Recorder of the Town of St. Albans in the County of Hertford , and one of the Judges of the Sheriffs Court held in the City of London . Thomas Gawdy of Claxton in the County of Norfolk , Esq ; , is descended from Thomas Gawdy of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of that House , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the beginning of Queen Elizabeths Reign . William Fortescue of Buckland in the County of Devon , Esq ; , is descended from the famous Sir John Fortescue of Buckland aforesaid , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth ; he was a Man of profound knowledge and experience in the Law , as his Learned Works ( some part whereof ) still extant do manifest , and by Birth was a younger Son to Sir Henry Fortescue of Wood in the said County of Devon , Knight , Chief Justice of Ireland , and descended of a Family of great Honour and Antiquity in the West of England . Edward Tildesly of Morlies in the County of Lancaster , Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to that great patern of Loyalty and Valour , Sir Thomas Tildesly of Morleys aforesaid , Knight , who being in Arms on the behalf of his late Majesty ; after many brave Actions by him atchieved , had the hard fate at last to dye in the Bed of Honour , being killed in the Road near Preston in Lancashire , fighting stoutly in his Princes Service ; after which , his Body was buried in the place where it fell , under a heap of Stones there remaining as a monument to perpetuate his memory , it being a Custom amongst the Ancient Romans , to erect such as marks of Honour where any great Action was performed : which said Sir Thomas Tildesly was descended , by many renowned and honourable Ancestors of this County , from Thomas Tildesly Esq ; , a person famous for his great Judgement in the Laws of our Nation , and called to the dignity of a Serjeant at Law by King Henry the Fourth , and from whom also did descend another Sir Thomas Tildesly of Grays-Inn , Knight , one of the Readers thereof , and one of the Council in the North in the Reign of King James , but he dyed without Issue Male. Henry Guildeford of Hempsted in the County of Kent , Esq ; , a Gentleman of a fair Estate , and a most excellent Family in that County , is descended from Henry de Guildeford , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the First . Richard Hopton of Cannon-Frome ( vulgarly ) Can-Frome in the County of Hereford Esq ; , is descended from Walter de Hopton Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of Assize for several years , in the Reign of King Edward the First . Collonel John Wyndham of Norrington , and of the City of Salisbury in the County of Wilts Esq ; , a Gentleman of great Loyalty and Repute , and possessor of a very considerable Estate , is the Son and Heir of the no less Loyal Wadham Wyndham of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the year 1660. who was descended from Francis Wyndham of the same Society Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the same Court in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; and he descended of a younger branch of the Ancient Family of the Wyndhams of Felbrig-hall in Norfolk , where the same still remains and flourisheth in great esteem . John Caesar of Barkway in the County of Hertford , is descended from Sir Julius Caesar of the Inner-Temple , Knight , Chancellor of the Court of Exchequer , and Master of the Rolls in the Reign of King James , and one of the Privey Council to that Prince . Francis Harvey of the Middle-Temple , and of Cockfield in the County of Suffolk , Esq ; , lately Reader of that Honourable Society , is descended from Sir Francis Harvey of the same House , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common Pleas in the Reign of King James . Lestrange Calthorp of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , is descended from Sir Henry Calthorp of the same Society , Knight , one of the Readers thereof , as also Attorney of the Court of Wards and Liveries in the Reign of His late Majesty King Charles the First , descended of the Ancient Family of the Calthorp's of Cockthorp in the County of Norfolk . William Fitz-Herbert of Tissington in the County of Derby , Esq ; , a Gentleman of an Ample Fortune , is directly descended from the famous Sir Anthony Fitz-Herbert of Norbury in the said County of Derby , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth : He was descended of an Ancient Family in the said County ; but having an elder Brother , who happening to dye without Issue Male , a great part of his Estate descended to this Learned Judge , who so greatly augmented the same , that thereby he preferred his younger Children ( of which he had divers , both Sons and Daughters ) by matching them to several worthy Families of this Kingdom ; and yet left a very plentiful Estate to his Son and Heir . Christopher Danby of Masham , Thorp-parrow , and Scruton in the North Riding of Yorkshire , of Driffield in the East-Riding , and of Thornby near Leeds in the West Riding of the said County , Esq ; , a Family of great interest in those parts , is descended from Sir Robert Danby Knight , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth , and constituted Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the first year of the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . William Stanford of Salford-Priors in the County of Warwick , Esq ; , is descended , by a younger Son , from that great and famous Lawyer William Stanford Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of Grays-Inn in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth ; after which , by Queen Mary he was made one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas . Richard Walmesly of Dunkenhalgh in the County of Lancaster , Esq ; , a Gentleman of excellent parts , and of an ample estate , is the direct Heir to the sometime Learned and most expert Lawyer of his time , Sir Thomas Walmesly of the Honourable Society of Lincolns Inn , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the said Court of Common-Pleas , in the several Reigns of Queen Elizabeth and King James . The Right Honourable Henry Coventry of Enfield in the County of Middlesex Esq ; , late one of His present Majesties principal Secretaries of State , and a person of great Integrity and Stedfastness to the Royal Interest , is one of the younger Sons of Thomas Lord Coventry . Lord Keeper of the great Seal of England , who was the Son and Heir to Thomas Coventry of Crombe in the County of Worcester , and of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James . Robert Coke of Holkham in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is the eldest Branch , descended from Sir Edward Coke of the Inner-Temple Knight , so much celebrated for his profound Judgement and experience in the Laws of this Kingdom , in respect whereof he became the Autumn Reader of the said Society , in the thirty fourth year of Queen Elizabeths Reign ; soon after which time , he was constituted Solicitor , and then Attorney General to that Princess , as also Recorder of the City of London ; and by King James called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law , and advanced to the dignity of Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas , whence he was removed to the like Honour in the Kings-Bench , and elected one of His then Majesties Privy-Council . John Crew of Misterton in the County of Leicester Esq ; , is descended from the Famous Sir Randolph Crew of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and 〈◊〉 Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of King James , which said Sir Randolph was descended of the Antient and Worshipful Family of the Crews of Crew-Hall in the County Palatine of Chester , where they have flourished for five Hundred years and upwards , as men of the greatest Honour and Esteem of that County , and are at this day so reputed . William Whitlocke of Fellis-Court in the County of Oxon , and of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , lately one of the Readers and Treasurers of that House , a person very well read in the Law , and of eminent note for his great Knowledge in the Rules and Practice of the Honourable Court of Chancery , is a younger Son to Bulstrode Whitloke of the same Society , Esq ; , one of the Commissioners of the great Seal of England in the time of the late Rebellion , and a leading Man in those unhappy days ; which Bulstrode was descended from Sir James Whitlocke of the Middle-Temple aforesaid , Knight , Serjeant at Law , Chief Justice of Chester , from whence he was removed to the Court of Common-Pleas , and made one of the Justices thereof by King James . Thomas Bedingfield of Darsham-Hall , and other fair Possessions of great vallue in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , is descended from the late worthy Sir Thomas Bedingfield of Darsham-Hall aforesaid , and of Grays-Inn , Knight , one of the Readers of that Society , Attorney of the Dutchy of Lancaster in His late Majesties Reign , since which , by His now Most Gracious Majesty , in the year 1660. he was called to the dignity of a Serjeant : Which said Sir Thomas was a Younger Branch of the Antient and Flourishing Family of the Bedingfields of Norfolk and Suffolk . Charles Dallison of the City of Lincoln Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to the late Learned Sir Charles Dallison of Lincoln aforesaid , and of Grays-Inn , Knight , Serjeant at Law , who was descended from William Dallison of the same Society , Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Sixth . Henry Lowther of Cokermouth in the County of Cumberland , a Gentleman of an Excellent Family in those parts , is descended from Thomas de Lowther Esq ; , one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench , in the beginning of the Reign of King Edward the Third . Francis Beresford of Fenny-Bently in the County of Derby Esq ; , is descended from William de Beresford Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the first , and Lord Chief Justice of the same Court in the Reign of King Edward the Second . Walter Littleton of the City of Litchfield in the County of Stafford Esq ; , is one of the Descendants of the memorable Sir Thomas Littleton of the Inner-Temple , Knight of the Bath , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reigns of King Henry the Sixth and Edward the Fourth , this Walter being descended from Richard Littleton ( second Son of the said Sir Thomas ) a Learned Lawyer , and one of the Readers of that Society in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . Richard Harpur of Little-Over in the County of Derby , Esq ; , is descended from Sir Richard Harpur of Swarkeston in the said County , and of the Inner-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Ralph Earle of Sawle in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is descended from Erasmus Earle Esq ; , one of the Honourable Benchers of Lincolns-Inn in His late Majesties Reign , and afterwards called to the Degree of a Serjeant at Law. Wallop Brabazon of Eaton , in the County of Hereford , Esq ; , is directly descended , through alineal course of divers renowned Ancestors , from the Learned Sir Roger de Brabazon of Eastwell in the County of Leicester , Knight , many years Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the First . William Milward of Eaton in the County of Derby Esq ; , is descended from Sir Thomas Milward Knight , a Lcarned Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , one of the Readers thereof , and Chief Justice of Chester in the Reign of His late Majesty King Charles the First . Roger Wilbraham of Nantwich in the County Palatine of Chester Esq ; , is descended from Sir Roger Wilbraham of Nantwitch aforesaid , Knight , one of the Readers of Lincolns-Inn in the latter end of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; after which , King James advanced him to the dignities of Master of the Requests , and Surveyor of the Court of Wards and Liveries ; which Sir Roger was a younger branch of the Ancient Family of the Wilbrahams of Woodhey in the said County of Chester , the chief branch whereof is Sir Thomas Wilbraham of Woodhey aforesaid , Baronet . William Fortescue of Cokehill in the County of Worcester , and of Wethele in the County of Warwick Esq ; , by a younger Son is descended from Lewes Fortescue of the Middle Temple Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof , and one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Richard Caryll of West-Grinstead in the County of Sussex , Esq ; , a Gentleman of singular repute and excellent parts , is descended from those two famous Lawyers of the Inner-Temple herein before mentioned , namely , John Caryll Esq ; , and Sir John Caryll Knight his Son , both Serjeants at Law in the Reigns of King Henry the Eighth and Queen Mary , and the latter , Attorney of the Dutchy of Lancaster in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Richard Brudnell of Stanton-Wivell in the County of Leicester Esq ; , ( of the Honourable Family of Robert Earl of Cardigan ) is descended from Robert Brudnell Esq ; , Serjeant at Law ; and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Charles Caesar of Gransden in the County of Huntington , and of Much-Hadham in the County of Hertford Esq ; , is the second Son of Sir Charles Caesar of the Inner-Temple Knight , Master of the Rolls , Son of Sir Julius Caesar of the same Society Knight , also Master of the Rolls , and Chancellor of the Exchequer in the Reign of King James . Anthony Gawdey of the Town of Ipswich in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , is descended from the Learned Sir Thomas Gawdey Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of the honourable Society of the Inner-Temple , and one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Henry Cavendish of Donebridge in the County of Derby , Esq ; , a person of great Honour both by birth and otherwise : ( being nearly related in blood to the Duke of Newcastle and the Earl of Devonshire ) is descended from Sir John de Cavendish Knight , Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Edward Sylyard of Runwell in the County of Essex Esq ; , is descended from William Sylyard of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , a person of eminent Note , and one of the Governors of that honourable Society for many years , in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the eighth ; which William was descended from John Sylyard Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , another Learned Member of the said House , and one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Edward the fourth , and constituted one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench by Richard the third . Henry Bromley of Holt-Castle , and other Mannors and Lands of large extent and vallue in the County of Worcester Esq ; , a Gentleman of great Loyalty and Repute , is the direct Heir to the famous Sir Thomas Bromley of Holt-Castle aforesaid , and of the Inner-Temple Knight , Recorder of the City of London , Solicitor General , and lastly Lord High Chancellor of England in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; which Sir Thomas was the Second Son of George Bromley of Bromley in the County of Chester and of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . Francis Bell of Outwell in the County of Norfolk , Esq ; , is descended from that incomparable Lawyer of his time , Sir Robert Bell of the Middle-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Edward Vaughan of Yrawscoed in the County of Cardigan Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to Sir John Vaughan of Yrawscoed aforesaid Knight , Serjeant at Law , late Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas , and Author of the Learned Vollume , Entituled Vaughan's Reports . Stephen Anderson of Eyworth in the County of Bedford , and Hamstead in the County of Middlesex Esq ; , is descended from the Learned Sir Edmond Anderson of the Inner-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the several Reigns of Queen Elizabeth and King James . Anthony Irby of Boston in the County of Lincoln Esq ; , ( a Gentleman of a very plentiful Fortune ) is descended from Anthony Irby of the Honourable Society of Lincolns-Inn , Esq ; , one of the Readers , as also for several years one of the Governours thereof in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . William Lenthall of Besselsleigh and Burford in the County of Oxon Esq ; , is the Grandson and Heir to William Lenthall of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Reader thereof in the Reign of King Charles the First : After the cruel Murther of which Royal Martyr , the said William complying with the usurped Authority of those miserable times , became a person of principal Note and Action , being constituted Master of the Rolls , Elected Speaker of the House of Parliament then S●tting , and frequently Honoured with the Title of William Lord Lenthall . Richard Lovelace of Wargrave in the County of Berks Esq ; , is descended from William Lovelace Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Readers of Grays-Inn in the beginning of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . John Thymelby of Iruham in the County of Lincoln , Esq ; , a Gentleman of great Integrity and of ample Fortune , is descended from Stephen Thymelby Esq ; , very eminent for his Learning in the Law , and one of the Benchers of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . George Mordant of Ickwell in the County of Bedford Esq ; , is directly descended by a younger Branch from the Right Honourable John Mordant of the Middle-Temple , Serjeant at Law , and Attorney of the Dutchey of Lancaster in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh , after which , by King Henry the Eighth he was created Baron of Turvey in the County of Bedford . Nicholas Overbury of Barton on the Heath , in the County of VVarwick Esq ; , is directly descended by a younger Son from Sir Nicholas Overbury of Burton on the Hill in the County of Glocester , and of the Middle-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James . Hugh Trevanion of Treluggan in the County of Cornwall Esq ; is descended from John Trevanion Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Eighth year of the Reign of King Edward the Third . Geffrey Nightingal of Knesworth in the County of Cambridge Esq ; , is descended from Geffrey Nightingal Esq ; , one of the Readers of Grays-Inn in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Allexander Crook of Studly , in the County of Bucks Esq ; , is one of the younger Branches , descended from Sir John Crook of Waterstock in the County of Oxon , and of the Middle-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James . Robert Berkley of Spechly in the County of Worcester Esq ; , a person of rare Accomplishments , Singular Repute , and of an ample Fortune , is the Grandson and Heir to the Learned and Loyal Sir Robert Berkly of the Middle Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and for many years one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of His late Majesty of Blessed memory : But at last the dark Clouds of Tyranny and Rebellion over-spreading this miserable Nation ; and all such as favoured or stood firm in their Duty and Allegiance to their Prince , being branded with that ignominious Title of Malignants and enemies to the Arbitrary Government of those unhappy days , This great Lawyer had the Honour to be one of those many worthy and Loyal Patriots as were then deposed and bereft of their places of trust , and great part of their Estates , for not complying with the Barbarous cruelties then practiced . Mondeford Brampston of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , Recorder of the Burrough of Maulden in the County of Essex , is descended from Sir John Brampston of the same Society Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Charles the First . John Mingay of Gimingham in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is descended from Francis Mingay Esq ; , one of the Readers of the Inner-Temple , in the Reign of King James . John Breerewood of the City of Chester Esq ; , is descended from Sir Robert Brerewood of the Middle-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , Recorder of Chester , and one of the Justices of the Court of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Charles the first . VVilliam Noy of Pendrea in the County of Cornwall Esq ; , is descended from that expert Lawyer , VVilliam Noy Esq ; ( a man of great practice ) one of the Benchers of Lincolns-Inn , and Attorney General to his late Majesty King Charles the first in the beginning of his Reign . Alexander Denton of Hillesden in the County of Bucks Esq ; , is descended from Thomas Denton a learned Lawyer of the Middle-Temple , and one of the Benchers thereof in the Reigns of Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth . Edward Turpin of Basingbourne in the County of Cambridge Esq ; , is descended from John Turpin Esq ; , one of the Governors of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Thomas Catesby of Ecton in the County of Northampton , and of Harmead in the County of Bucks Esq ; , a Family of great Antiquity , is descended from Sir John Catesby Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Francis Meynell of Bradley in the County of Derby Esq ; , is descended from Robert Meynell of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Henry the eighth ; and afterwards called to the dignity of a Serjeant at Law. William Ayloff of Chisele in the County of Essex , Esq ; , is descended from William Ayloff Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Readers of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and he descended from another William Ayloff Esq ; , a learned Lawyer of the same Society , and one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . Bazill Fitz Herbert of Norbury in the County of Derby , and of Swinnerton in the County of Stafford , Esq ; , a Gentleman of a very fair estate , is descended from the famous and learned Sir Anthony Fitz Herbert of Norbury aforesaid , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the eighth ; a younger Son of which Sir Anthony , was William Fitz Herbert , who by Marriage with Elizabeth , Daughter and Co-heir to Humphry Swinnerton of Swinnerton aforesaid , Esq ; , annexed that Lordship and other Lands of good vallue to this Family , and so continue to this day in the possession of the said Bazill . William Palmes of Ashwell in the County of Rutland Esq ; , is descended , by many honourable Ancestors , from Guy Palmes of the Middle-Temple , Esq ; , who , for his great Judgement and Abilities in the Law , was called to the state and dignity of a Serjeant by King Henry the Seventh ; and by King Henry the eighth constituted one of his Council , learned in the Laws . William Petre of Stanford in the County of Essex Esq ; , ( of the Noble Family of the Lord Petre ) is a younger Branch , descended from Sir William Petre Knight , Doctor of the Civil Law , Secretary of State to King Henry the eighth , and a man of great action in most of the revolutions of that Princes Reign . Richard Dowdswell of Poole-Court in the County of VVorcester Esq ; , enjoys a very fair estate in that and other adjacent Counties , as Grand-son and Heir to Richard Dowdswell of Poole-Court aforesaid Esq ; , an eminent Practicer in the Laws , and Principle of New-Inn , as also Steward to the Right Honourable George Lord Coventry . Daniel Kingsmill of Kings-Clere in the County of South-hampton Esq ; , is descended from George Kingsmill of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; which George was descended from John Kingsmill Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the same Court in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . George Scott of Chigwell in the County of Essex Esq ; , is descended from John Scott Esq ; , a Learned Lawyer and Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Robert Coke of Trusly in the County of Derby Esq ; , is descended by a younger Son from Sir Edward Coke of the Inner-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , Attorney General to Queen Elizabeth , and Lord Chief Justice of both Benches in the time of King James . Thomas Snagg of Milbrooke in the County of Bedford Esq ; , is descended from Thomas Snagg Esq ; , a Learned and able Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , and twice Reader thereof in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; who in the two and twentieth year of her Reign , advanced him to the degree of a Serjeant at Law. Peter Phesant of Vpwood in the County of Huntington Esq is descended from Peter Phesant of Grays-Inn , Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King James , who was the Son and Heir to Peter Phesant another famous Lawyer , and one of the Readers of that Honourable Society in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; who constituted him her Attorney for the Northern parts of this Kingdom . William Purefoy of the Sow , in the County of Warwick Esq ; , is descended from Humphrey Purefoy of Barwell in the County of Leicester , and of Grays-Inn Esq ; , one of the Readers of that House in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , which Humphrey was a younger Branch of the Antient and Numerous Family of the Purefoys of Drayton in the said County of Leicester , where they have flourished for above five Hundred years past , Sir Henry Purefoy of Wadley in the County of Berks and of Drayton aforesaid , Baronet , being the principal and Eldest Branch thereof . Edward Bromley of Hampton in the County of Chester Esq ; , the eldest Branch of that Honourable and Antient Family , is descended from George Bromley of the Inner-Temple , Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof , and Chief Justice of Chester , in the beginning of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , which George was the eldest Brother to Sir Thomas Bromley Knight , Lord High Chancellor of England , and the eldest Son and Heir to George Bromley Esq ; , another Learned Lawyer of the same Society , and one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . Samuel Trotman of Siston in the County of Glocester , and of Bucknell in the County of Oxon , Esq ; , one of the utter Baristers of the Inner-Temple , and a person of a very fair estate , is descended from Edward Trotman Esq ; , one of the Readers of that Honourable Society in the third year of the Reign of his late Majesty King Charles the First . Richard Norton of Southwick in the County of Southampton Esq ; , is descended from Richard Norton Esq ; , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Henry the Fourth , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reigns of King Henry the Fifth and Sixth . John Turner of Walden in the County of Essex Esq ; , is descended from Edward Turner of Little-Paringdon in the said County Esq ; , an eminent Lawyer of the Middle-Temple , and one of the Benchers thereof in the Reign of King James . Thomas Babington of Rothely in the County of Leicester Esq ; , is descended by many Worthy and Honourable Ancestors from Sir William Babington Knight ; , Serjeant at Law , Attorney General to King Henry the Fourth and Fifth ; by which last Prince he was advanced to that great Dignity of Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer , and from thence removed to the like Honour in the Court of Common-Pleas being constituted Lord Chief Justice thereof . Phillip Caryll of Shipley in the County of Sussex Esq ; , is descended from Sir John Caryll of Harting in this County , and of the Inner-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Attorney of the Dutchy of Lancaster , Son and Heir to John Caryll of the same Society Esq ; , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of Henry the Eighth . Thomas Coventry of Chilvers Coton in the County of Warwick Esq ; , ( Uncle to John now Lord Coventry ) is descended from Thomas Coventry of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , called to the Dignity of a Serjeant at Law , and made one of the Justices of the Court of Common Pleas , in whose Reign he Dyed , leaving Thomas Coventry Esq ; his Son and Heir , who Studying the Laws in the same Society , became Recorder of London , Solicitor and Attorney General to King James , Lord Keeper of the great Seal of England , and Baron of Alesburough in the Reign of King Charles the First . Thomas Atkins of Easendon in the County of Hertford Esq ; is descended from Thomas Atkins Esq ; , a Learned Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , and one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Richard Maunsfield of West-leak in the County of Nottingham Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to Thomas Maunsfield of West-leak aforesaid Esq ; , an ingenious practicer of the Law , and a Barister of the Inner-Temple in the Reign of King Charles the First . Edward Willoughby of Boreplace in the County of Kent Esq ; , is descended from the Learned Sir Thomas Willoughby of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth ; which Thomas intermarrying with the sole Daughter and Heir of Sir Robert Read Knight , Lord Chief Justice of the same Court , did thereby annex an ample Estate to this Honourable Family , amongst whom was Edward Willoughby of Boreplace aforesaid Esq ; , who added very considerably thereunto by a Match with one of the Daughters ; and Coheirs to Sir Francis Willoughby of Wollaton in the County of Nottingham Knight , descended in a direct Course of Succession , from Sir Richard de Willoughby Knight , one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the beginning of the Reign of King Edward the Third ; from which Sir Richard , by younger Sons , did descend Sir Henry Willoughby late of Risley in the County of Derby Baronet , and Sir Willoughby late of Willoughby in the County of Nottingham Baronet , both lately terminated in Daughters and Heirs , who have carried the Inheritance of those two honourable persons to several worthy Families of this Kingdom . Edward Rich of Dowdeswell in the County of Glocester Esq ; is the Son and Heir to the late Learned Sir Edward Rich of Dowdswell aforesaid Knight , one of the Readers of Lincolns Inn , and a person eminent for his great Experience in the Laws in the beginning of His now Majestie 's Reign . George Willoughby of Cossale in the County of Nottingham Esq ; of the Ancient Family of the Lords Willoughby of Eresby , is descended from Sir Thomas Willoughby of Lincolns-Inn aforesaid Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Richard Shuckburgh of Burton upon Dunsmore , and Birdingbury in the County of Warwick Esq ; is directly descended from John Shuckburgh of Birdingbury aforesaid , one of the Six Clerks in Chancery in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; Which John being a wary provident Person , Purchased all or the greatest part of the Estate which this worthy Gentleman is now possessed of . Francis Morgan of Kingsthorp in the County of Northampton Esq ; is descended from Francis Morgan of Heyford in the County aforesaid , and of the Middle-Temple Esq ; Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of that House , and one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench , in the Reign of Queen Mary . Robert Brome of Woodlow in the County of Warwick Esq ; is descended from John Brome of Badsly-Chiston in this County Esq ; a Lawyer of very eminent note in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth , and Purchasor of this Mannor of Woodlow ; which he settled upon Nicholas Brome his Son and Heir , who left it to Ralph his Son by a Third Venter ( the lineal Ancestor of the said Robert ) which John was himself the Grandson and Heir to Robert Brome of Warwick Esq ; another learned Lawyer in the Reign of King Richard the Second . William Seyes of Killan in the County of Glamorgan Esq ; is descended from Roger Seyes of Boverton in the said County Esq ; a Learned Lawyer , and Attorney-General of all Wales , in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Gilbert Boon of Hockerton in the County of Nottingham Esq is the Son and Heir to the late Learned and Loyal Gilbert Boon of Grayes-Inn , Esq ; called to the Degree of a Serjeant at Law by His late Majesty King Charles the First , in the year 1636. after which he endured great Oppressions in the time of the late Rebellion , for his exemplary Loyalty and Stedfastness to his Prince . Charles Skipwith of Gosberton in the County of Lincoln Esq ; is descended from William de Skipwith Esq ; Serjeant at Law , one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer , in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Thomas Wetenhall of East-Peckham in the County of Kent Esq ; a Gentleman of honorable Extraction and great Integrity , is descended from George Wetenhall Esq ; a learned Lawyer of Grayes-Inn , and one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . John Philipps of the Inner-Temple Esq ; one of the Auditors of His Majestie 's Court of Exchequer , is descended from Sir Edward Philipps of the same Society Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Master of the Rolls in the Reign of King James . Cecill Tirwhitt of Cameringham in the County of Lincoln Esq ; a Family of great Antiquity and Honor in that County , is descended from Robert Tirwhitt an eminent Lawyer , in the Reigns of King Henry the Fourth and Fifth , by which two Victorious Princes , he was first called to the Dignity of a Serjeant at Law , and then constituted one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas , out of which Court he was removed to the like Place in the King's-Bench . Henry Reynell of Laytham in the County of Middlesex Esq ; is descended from Richard Reynell Esq ; Reader of the Middle Temple in the Reign of King James . Edward Atkins of Albury-Hall in the County of Hertford Esq ; is descended from Thomas Atkins of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Michael Lister of Burwell in the County of Lincoln Esq with other worthy Gentlemen of that Name and Family in the said County , are descended from Sir Richard Lister of the Middle Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , Solicitor-General to King Henry the Eighth ; which Prince in the last year of his Reign , constituted him Lord Chief Justice of the King's-Bench . Thomas Herlakenden of Woodchurch in the County of Kent Esq ; a Family of long continuance there is descended from Thomas Herlakenden of Woodchurch aforesaid , and of Grayes-Inn Esq ; a Person of great Judgment in the Laws of this Nation , and one of the Readers thereof in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . George Townsend of Wrotham in the County of Norfolk Esq ; is descended from Sir Roger Townsend of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Reader thereof in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth , by whom he was called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law. After which , by King Richard the Third , he was made one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas , and in that place continued by King Henry the Seventh . Richard Raynsford of Dallington in the County of Northampton Esq ; is the eldest Son and Heir to Sir Richard Raynsford of Dallington aforesaid Knight , Serjeant at Law deceased , first one of the Barons of the Exchequer , then one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench , and lastly , Lord Chief Justice of that Court ; in which he sate not long before he was eased of the burthen thereof by His Majesties Writ . Robert Heath of O●ford in the County of Kent , and of the Inner-Temple Esq ; called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law in Hillary Term last , is descended from that excellent Lawyer Sir Robert Heath Knight , Serjeant at Law , a worthy Member of the same Society , Recorder of the City of London , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Charles the First . Francis Bacon of the City of Norwich Esq ; Recorder of the said City , lately one of the Readers of Grayes-Inn , is descended from Francis Bacon Esq ; Serjeant at Law , also one of the Readers of that Honorable Society , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas , in the Reign of His late Majesty King Charles the First . George Hill of St. Martins in the Fields in the County of Middlesex Esq ; is the Son and Heir to George Hill late of Clifford's - Inn Esq ; a Person of great Practice and Eminent Repute , as also one of His Majestie 's Justices of the Peace for the County of Middlesex for many years before his Death . Robert Challoner of the City of London Esq ; is descended from Robert Challoner Esq ; a learned Lawyer of Grays-Inn , and one of the Readers thereof in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Francis Twisden of the Inner-Temple Esq ; one of the Masters of the Examiners Office belonging to the Court of Chancery , is one of the younger Sons of the late famous and Profound Lawyer , Sir Thomas Twisden of Bradburne in the County of Kent , and of the Inner-Temple aforesaid , Knight and Baronet , Serjeant at Law , and for many years one of His present Majejestie's Justices of the Court of King's - Bench. Francis Crawley of Enfield in the County of Middlesex , and of Someris near Luton in the County of Bedford Esq ; is descended from Sir Francis Crawley Knight , Serjeant at Law , Reader of Grayes-Inn , and lastly , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James . Henry Montague of the Inner-Temple Esq ; a Person of Noble Extraction , is descended from Sir Henry Montague of the Middle-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Justice of the Court of King's-Bench , and Lord High Treasurer of England in the Reign of King James ; after which , he became Earl of Manchester , and was descended by a younger Son from Sir Edw. Montague of the said Honorable Society of the Middle-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas , in the Reigns of King Henry the Eighth , and Edward the Sixth . Edward Diggs of Chilham-Castle in the County of Kent Esq ; , ( 〈…〉 of good account there ) is descended from Sir Dudley Diggs Knight , Master of the Rolls in the Reign of His late Majesty ; which Sir Dudley was descended from Richard Diggs of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King James . John Danvers of Shackerston , in the County of Leicester Esq ; , is descended by many worthy Ancestors from Sir Robert Danvers of Lincolns Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , Recorder of the City of London , first one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer , and afterwards one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas for many years in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . George Markham of Werksopp-Lodge in the County of Nottingham Esq ; , is descended , by many eminent Ancestors , from Sir John Markham Knight , one of the Justices of the Court of Common Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Fourth , who was descended from Robert Markham , ( Son of John ) both very learned Lawyers in the Reign of King Edward the Second , and Edward the Third , which said Sir John was Father also to the famous Sir John Markham Knight , Lord Chief Justice of the same Court , from whom is descended Sir Robert Markham of Sedgebrooke Baronet , herein before mentioned amongst the Baronets . William Booth of Witton in the County of Warwick Esq ; , is descended from William Booth of Witton aforesaid , and of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , Reader thereof in the Reign of King Charles the First ; which William was a younger Branch of the honorable Family of the Booths of Dunham-Massey in Cheshire , Originally of Barton in Lancashire . Nevill Brome of Clifton in the County of Oxon Esq ; , a Gentleman of an Ancient Family in this County and Warwickshire , is descended from Robert Brome of Warwick Esq ; , a Person very eminent for his Knowledge in the Laws . In respect whereof , he was made Steward to Thomas de Beauchamp Earl of Warwick , who lived in the Reign of King Richard the Second , and thereby layed the first step to the Estate and Preferments , which in succeeding Ages accrewed to his Posterity . Richard Seys of Swansey in the County of Glamorgan Esq ; , is descended from Roger Seys of Boverton in the said County Esque , Attorney General of all Wales for many years in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Cliston Rhodes of Sturton in the County of Nottingham Esq ; , is a younger Branch , descended from Sir Francis Rhodes of Grayes-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . George Montague of St. Martin's in the Fields , in the County of Middlesex Esq ; , is descended from Sir Henry Montague of the Midale-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the King's-Bench in the Reign of King James ; which Sir Henry was the Grandson of Sir Edward Montague of the same Society Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the same Court in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . John Fountayn of Melton upon the Mount , in the West Riding of Yorkshire Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to that able Lawyer John Fountayn , late Serjeant at Law deceased , a Person of very considerable Practice and great Wealth . Thomas Sackvill of Seddlescombe in the County of Sussex Esq ; , is descended from Sir Richard Sackvill Knight , one of the Benchers of Grayes-Inn in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , and soon after became Under Treasurer of the Court of Exchequer . George Harpur of Twiford in the County of Derby Esq ; , is descended from the Learned Sir Richard Harpur of the Inner-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of that ancient House , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . William Cartwright of Normanton in the County of Nottingham Esq ; , is the Son and Heir of William Cartwright of Normanton aforesaid Esq ; ; Barister at Law , and a Person of considerable repute and practice in this County . John Sylyard of Penshurst in the County of Kent Esq ; , is descended from John Sylyard of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth , and by King Richard the Third called to the State and Dignity of a Serjeant at Law , and made one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench . Thomas Ascough of West-Terrington in the County of Lincoln Esq ; , is descended by a younger Son from Sir William Ascough of Colling in the said County of Lincoln Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . John Bingham of Bingham's-Melcombe in the County of Dorset Esq ; , is descended from Sir Richard Bingham Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reigns of King Henry the Sixth , and Edward the Fourth . George Faunt of Foston in the County of Leicester Esq ; , a Gentleman of a very Ancient and Worshipful Family in that County , is descended from William de Faunt Esq ; , one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Clement Spelman of Magdalen in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is descended from Clement Spelman Esq ; , late Serjeant at Law , and one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the year 1663. who was descended from Sir John Spelman of Grayes-Inn Knight , ( the first Reader of that House ) Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of K. Henry the Eighth . Francis Howard of Thornthwait in the County of Westmorland , is a younger Branch of the Noble house of the Howards Dukes of Norfolk , and consequently descended from William Howard Esq ; one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the First . Francis Lovelace of Baynhurst in the County of Berks Esq ; , is descended from William Lovelace of Grays-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . William Bromley of Baginton in the County of Warwick Esq ; , is descended from Sir Thomas Bromley of the Inner-Temple , Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth ; after the Death of which Prince he was constituted Chief Justice of that Court by King Edward the Sixth : This Sir Thomas was the Son and Heir of Sir John Bromley of Radington in the County of Chester Knight , by his second Wife , the Daughter of Richard Widvill Earl Rivers ; but it so fell out , that Sir John had before entailed his whole Estate upon the Issue of his first Lady , who were all Daughters , insomuch that the said Sir Thomas left little to his Posterity , but what was of his own acquiring . Thomas Townsend of Horseford in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is one of the descendants of Sir Roger Townsend of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . John Chamberlayn of Chilvers-Coton , in the County of Warwick Esq ; , is descended from Richard Chamberlayn of Chilvers-Coton aforesaid , and of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Clerk of the Court of Wards and Liveries in the Reign of King Charles the First . Charles Baldwin of Stoake in the County of Salop Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to the late Learned Sir Samuel Baldwin of Stoake aforesaid , and of the Inner-Temple Knight , one of His Majesties Serjeants at Law deceased , which Sir Samuel was descended from Sir John Baldwin of the same Society Knight , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . — Paston of Paston and Appleton in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , a Gentleman of an Honourable Family of great Antiquity , is descended from Sir William Paston of Paston Knight , one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of Henry the Sixth . John Keeling of Southill in the County of Bedford Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to Sir John Keeling of the Inner-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , lately deceased , Son of another Sir John Keeling of the same Society Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Common Pleas in His now Majestie 's Reign . William Glanvill of Broad-Hinton in the County of Wilts Esquire , is descended from the learned John Glanvill of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas towards the latter end of Q Elizabeths Reign . Francis Fitz Herbert of Somersall-Herbert in the County of Derby Esq ; , is descended from Sir Anthony Fitz Herbert of Norbury in the said County Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . John Coke of Melburne in the County of Derby Esq ; , is descended by a younger Son from the famous Sir Edward Coke of the Inner-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King James . John Hobart of the City of Norwich in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is descended from Sir James Hobart of Lincolns-Inn Knight , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth , and Attorney General to King Henry the Seventh . Robert Jenny of Knats-Hall in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , is descended from Christopher Jenny Esq ; , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth ; which Christopher was descended from Thomas Jenny Esq ; an eminent Lawyer , several times Reader of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . Baldwyn Mallett of Poyntington in the County of Somerset Esq ; , is descended from Baldwyn Mallett of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Edward Skipwith of Ketsby in the County of Lincoln Esq ; , is descended from William de Skipwith Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Roger Downes of Wardley in the County of Lancaster Esq , is descended from Roger Downes Esq , Reader of Grayes Inn , and Vice-Chamberlain of the County Palatine of Chester in the Reign of King James . Adrian Scroope of Cockrington in the County of Lincoln Esq ; , ( Brother and Heir to the Ingenious Sir Carr Scroope Baronet , deceased ) is descended by many honorable Ancestors and Peers of this Realm , from Geffery de Scroope Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of Edward the second . Vincent Denn of Denn's-hill in the County of Kent Esq ; , is descended from Thomas Denn of Denn's-hill aforesaid , a learned Practicer of the Laws , and Reader of the Inner Temple in the Third year of the Reign of King Charles the First . Clement Higham of Barrow in the County of Suffolk Esq ; ▪ is descended from Richard Higham of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of Richard the Third , and afterwards by King Henry the Seventh he was called to the degree of a Serjeant at Law. Anthony Drury of Intwood in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is descended from Robert Drury of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , a Person of great Learning , and Speaker of the House of Commons in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . Thomas Colepeper of Hackington in the County of Kent Esq ; , a younger Branch of that truly Noble and worthy Family of that County , who derive their descent from John Colepeper Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Fifth . William Bassett of Cheale alias Chedle in the County of Lincoln Esque , a Person of very Noble and Honorable Parentage , being branched out of the Ancient stock of the Lords Bassett of Drayton , whose Ancestor was Ralph de Bassett Lord Chief Justice of England ( the first Advancer of this sometime renowned Family ) in the Reign of King Henry the First , which is now almost Six hundred years since . Richard Lister of Thorp-Arnold in the County of Leicester Esq ; , is descended from Sir Richard Lister Knight , Serjeant at Law , Reader of the Middle-Temple , and Lord Chief Justice of the Kings Bench in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . John Petre of Feedlers in the County of Essex Esq ; , is descended from the famous Sir William Petre of Corbican in the County of Devon Knight , Doctor of the Civil Laws , and one of the Principal Secretaries of State to that resolute Prince King Henry the Eighth . Evers Armyne of Osgodby in the County of Lincoln Esq ; , ( the only remaining Branch of that honorable and worthy Family ) is descended from William Armyne Esq ; , a learned Lawyer , and one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Henry the Fourth . Robert Oldsworth of Bradley in the County of Glocester Esq ; , is descended from William Oldsworth Esq ; , Reader of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Thomas Turner of Queendon in the County of Essex Esq ; , is descended from Edward Turner of Paringden in the said County , and of the Middle-Temple Esque , a learned Lawyer , and one of the Benchers of that honorable Society in the Reign of King James . Edward Roper of Eltham in the County of Kent E●que the eldest Branch of that ancient and honorable Family , is descended from John Roper of Eltham aforesaid , and of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof , and Attorney General to King Henry the Eighth . Edward Briscoe of Aldenham in the County of Hertford Esq ; , is descended from William Briscoe Esq ; , a Person of great experience in the Laws , and several times Reader of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth John Empson of Boston in the County of Lincoln Esq ; , is descended from Sir Richard Empson Knight , a learned Lawyer , and a Person of great Note , and employed by King Henry the Seventh in matters of confiderable moment and advantage to that provident Prince . But this Sir Richard Empson incurring the hatred of the People , through the great Exactions and Oppressions which he imposed upon them ; at length they formed an Accusation against him and Edmond Dudley Esq ; , Serjeant at Law ( Father to John Dudley Duke of Northumberland ) both joyntly concerned , of divers Misdemeanors & undue Courses by them committed beyond the bounds of their Authority , for which at length they both suffered Death ▪ Edmond Clench of Great Belingshall in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , is descended from John Clench of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Barons of the Exchequer , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Hugh Cholmley of Newton-Grange in the County of York Esq ; , is descended from Sir Roger Cholmley of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Montfort Spelman of Narborough in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is descended from the learned Sir John Spelman of Grayes-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Richard Crooke of Marston in the County of Oxon Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to Richard Crooke of Marston aforesaid , and of the Inner-Temple aforesaid Esq ; , Serjeant at Law deceased , and lately Recorder of the City of Oxon ; which Richard was descended from Sir John Crooke of the same Society Knight , Serjeant at Law , Recorder of London , Speaker of the House of Commons , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King James . John Brooke of Redlesham in the County of Suffolk , is descended from Sir Robert Brooke of the Middle-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law and Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Mary . William Frampton of Moreton in the County of Dorset Esq ; , is descended from Robert Frampton Esq ; , one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . St. Leger Scroop of Louth in the County of Lincoln Esq ; , is descended by many honorable Ancestors , from Geoffrey de Scroop Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Second . Francis Tirwhitt of Misson in the County of Nottingham Esq ; , a Gentleman of Honorable Blood , is descended from Robert Tirwhitt Esq ; , a Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of both Benches in the several Reigns of King Henry the Fourth and Fifth . Edmond Walter of Godstow in the County of Oxon Esq ; , is descended from the learned Sir John Walter of the Inner-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Baron of the Exchequer in the Reign of King James ; which Sir John was the Son of Sir Edmond Walter of Ludlow in the County of Salop , and of the same Society Knight , several times Reader thereof , and Chief Justice of South-Wales in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Philip Bacon of Wolverton in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , with divers other worthy Gentlemen of that Name in the said County , are descended from John de Bacon Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Second . John Hody of North-Over in the County of Somerset Esq ; , is descended from Sir William Hody Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in the Reigns of King Henry the Seventh and Henry the Eighth ; which said Sir William was descended from Sir John Hody Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . Vnton Crooke of Heddington in the County of Oxon Esq ; , is descended from Vnton Crooke of the Inner-Temple Esq ; ; called to the Dignity of a Serjeant at Law by Mr. Oliver Cromwell ; which Vnton was descended from Sir John Crooke of Waterstock in the said County , and of the same Society Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Kings-Bench in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth and King James . Ralph Darnall of Lawton-Hope in the County of Hereford Esq ; , is descended from John Darnall Esq ; ; Serjeant at Law , one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King Edward the Sixth . Francis Charlton of Apley in the County of Salop Esq ; , a Gentleman of a very plentiful Estate , and of a very ancient Family , is descended from Sir Richard de Charlton Knight , Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Richard the Second . Willliam Lenthall of Great Hasely in the County of Oxon Esq ; , is the Grandson of Sir John Lenthall Knight , late Marshal of the Court of Kings-Bench , and Prison thereunto belonging : The Inheritance of which Office is vested in the said William . William Tate of De-la Pree in the County of Northampton Esque , is descended from Francis Tate of the Middle-Temple Esq ; ; one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King James . Roger Sydenham of Shilgate in the County of Somerset Esq ; , is descended from Richard de Sydenham Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Richard the Second . Henry Bromley of Vpton in the County of Worcester Esq ; , is descended from the famous Sir Thomas Bromley of the Inner-Temple Knight , Solicitor General , and lastly , Lord High Chancellor of England in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . John Danvers of Bainton in the County of Wilts Esq ; , is descended from Robert Danvers of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , a Person of great learning in the Law , in respect whereof he was called to the Degree of a Serjeant at Law , and made one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas by King Henry the Sixth . The Honorable Colonel Edward Sackvill of St. Martins in the Fields in the County of Middlesex Esq ; , a Person of exemplary Loyalty and Valour , is of the Noble Blood ● of the Sackvills Earls of Dorset , descended from Sir Richard Sackvill of Buckhurst in the County of Sussex , and of Grayes-Inn Knight ; one of the Benchers of that Society , and Under Treasurer of the Court of Exchequer in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . The Honorable Edward Howard of Vrchfont in the County of Wilts Esq ; , ( a younger Son of Thomas late Earl of Berkshire ) is descended from William Howard Esq ; , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the First . Isaac Farfax of Dunsley in the County of York Esq ; , is descended from the learned Sir Guy Farfax Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reigns of King Edward the Fourth and Richard the Third . Anthony Ingilby of Clape-Dale in the West-Riding of Yorkshire Esq ; , is descended from Thomas de Ingilby Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Kings Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Third , from whence he was removed , and made one of the Justices of the Common Pleas by King Richard the Second . The Honorable Robert Philipps Esq ; , one of the Gentlemen of His Majestie 's Bed-Chamber , is descended from Sir Edw. Philipps of the Inner-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Master of the Rolls in the Reign of His late Majesty King James . Nicholas Delves of Camberwell in the County of Surrey Esq ; , ( a Branch of the ancient Name and Family of Delves of Cheshire ) is descended from Sir John Delves Knight , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Robert Sheffield of Kensington in the County of Middlesex Esq ; , is descended ( by a younger Son of Edmond late Earl of Mulgrave ) from Sir Robert Sheffield of Botterwick in the County of Lincoln , and of the Inner-Temple Knight , Recorder of London , and Speaker of the House of Commons in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . Edmond Pooley of Collumbyne-Hall in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , is descended from Edmond Pooley Esq ; , one of the Readers of Grayes-Inn , and a Person very Eminent for his learning the Laws , in the Reign Queen Elizabeth . John Fitz Herbert of Luckington in the County of Wilts Esq ; , is descended ( by a younger Son ) from Sir Anthony Fitz Herbert of Norbury in the County of Derby Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Common Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . John Vavasour of Fogarthorp in the East-Riding of the County of York Esq ; , is descended from John Vavasour of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , the first Reader of that Honorable Society in the 17th year of King Henry the Seventh : After which he was called to the Dignity of a Serjeant at Law , and constituted one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas by that Prince . Dymock Walpole of Louth in the County of Lincoln , and of Grayes-Inn Esq ; , is descended from John Walpole of Grayes-Inn aforesaid Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof , and one of Her Majesties learned Serjeants at Law in the Reign of Queen Mary . Thomas Petyte of Boughton Vnder Bleane in the County of Kent Esq ; , is descended from John Petyte of Grayes-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . John Gerrard of Hilderston in the County of Stafford Esq ; , is descended from Sir Gilbert Gerrard of Grayes-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , Attorney General for above Twenty years together , and also Master of the Rolls in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Thomas Colepepper of Bedgebury in the County of Kent Esq ; , is descended from John Colepepper Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Fifth . Henry Drax of Sibsey in the County of Lincoln Esq ; , is descended from Richard Drax a learned Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , and one of the Governors thereof for many years in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . Anthony Drury of Intwood in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is descended from Robert Drury Esq ; one of the Readers of Lincolns-Inn , and Speaker of the House of Commons in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . John Kingsmill of Sandleford in the County of Berks Esq ; , is descended from John Kingsmill Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . William Walsh of Abberlylodge in the County of Worcester Esq ; , is descended from Thomas Walsh Esq ; Remembrancer of the Court of Exchequer , and one of the Barons of the same Court in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . John Stapleton of Warter in the County of York Esq ; , is descended from Nicholas de Stapleton Esq ; one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Henry the Third and Edward the First . John Wyvell of Osgerby in the County of York Esq ; , is descended from John de Wyvell , one of the Barons of the Exchequer , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Third . Thomas Keble of Newton in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , with several other worthy Gentlemen of that Name , Family , and County , are descended from Thomas Keble Esq ; , a learned Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . John Higham of East-Ham in the County of Essex Esq ; , is descended from Richard Higham of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof , and called to the Degree of a Serjeant at Law by King Henry the Seventh . Henry Henly of Coleway in the County of Dorset Esq ; , is descended from Sir Walter Henly Knight , a learned Lawyer of Grayes-Inn , and twice Reader of that Society in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Charles Trevanion of Goran in the County of Cornwall Esq ; , is descended from John Trevanion Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the beginning of the Reign of King Edward the Third . Christopher Turner of Milton-Erneys in the County of Bedford Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to Sir Christopher Turner late of the Inner-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Barons of the Exchequer deceased . Edward North of Benaker in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , is a younger Branch of that Noble Family descended from Sir Edward North Knight , Treasurer and Chanc●llor of the Court of Augmentations in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Bryan Farfax of Denton in the East-Riding of Yorkshire Esq ; , is descended from Sir Guy Farfax Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth . ---- Cavendish of Cavendish in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , the Principal Branch of that truely Honorable and Ancient Family is descended from Sir John de Cavendish Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Third and Richard the Second . Thomas Windham of Witham in the County of Somerset Esq ; , is descended from Francis Windham of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . James Hobart of Great Plumstead in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is descended from Sir James Hobart of Lincolns-Inn Knight , one of the Readers thereof , and Attorney General to King Henry the Seventh . John Boys of Fredvill in the County of Kent Esq ; , is descended from John Boys Esq ; , an eminent Lawyer of Grayes-Inn , and several times one of the Readers thereof , and Attorney of the Dutchy of Lancaster in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Thomas Berkley of Tibberton in the County of Worcester Esq ; , is descended from Sir Robert Berkley of Spechly in the said County of Worcester , and of the Middle Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Charles the First . Walter Faunt of Kingsthorpe in the County of Northampton Esq ; , is descended from William Faunt Esq ; , one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Thomas Carus of Horton in the County of Lancaster Esq ; , is descended from Thomas Carus of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof , and called to the Degree of a Serjeant at Law by Queen Mary , and afterwards by Queen Elizabeth was constituted one of her Justices of the Kings-Bench . John Bagshaw of Lulworth in the County of Northampton Esq ; , is descended from Edward Bagshaw of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Charles the First of Blessed Memory . Thomas Conningsby of Hampton Court in the County of Hereford Esq ; , a Family of great Interest and Antiquity in that County , is descended from Humphrey Conningsby Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the first year of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . John Cave of Horsepoole-Grange in the County of Leicester Esq ; , is descended from John de Cave , one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of Edward the First . Lionell Gosnold of Otley-Hall in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , is descended from John Gosnold Esq ; , a learned Lawyer of Grayes-Inn , and twice Reader of that Society in the Reigns of King Henry the Eighth and Edward the Sixth . Charles Holloway of the City of Oxon Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to the late learned Charles Holloway of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law deceased . Ambrose Philipps of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , a Person of great Learning and Judgment in the Laws , and particularly in the Rules and Practice of the Court of Chancery , is the Son and Heir to Ambrose Philipps Gentleman , a worthy Practicer in the same Court. Joseph Offley of Kentish Town in the County of Middlesex Esq ; , enjoyes a very fair Estate as Brother , Heir , and Executor to Robert Offley late of the Middle-Temple Esq ; deceased . Thomas Hesketh of Rufforth in the County of Lancaster Esq ; , a Gentleman of an Ample Estate and a very ancient Family in that County , is descended from Sir Thomas Hesketh of Grayes-Inn Knight , one of the Readers thereof , Attorney of the Court of Wards and Liveries , and one of the Council in the North in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth and King James ; which Sir Thomas was descended from Richard Hesketh Esq ; , another able Lawyer , and Reader of the same Society in the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . John Glanvill of the City of Exeter in the County of Devon , and of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , is descended from the learned Sir John Glanvill of the same Society Knight , called to the Dignity of a Serjeant at Law by King Charles the First ; which Sir John was descended from John Glanvill of the same Society Esq ; Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Court 〈◊〉 of Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Gilbert Hody of Cornworthy in the County of Devon Esq ; . is descended from Sir William Hody Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Baron of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth ; which Sir William was descended from Sir John Hody Knight , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Justice of the Kings Bench in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . Richard Hutton of Goldesbrough in the West Riding of Yorkshire Esq ; , is descended from the famous Sir Richard Hutton Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James . Oliver Luke of Wood-End in the County of Bedford Esq ; , is descended from Walter Luke Esq ; , Reader of the Middle-Temple , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . John Moreton of Kiddington in the County of Oxon Esq ; , is descended from Sir William Moreton Knight deceased , late one of His Majestie 's Serjeants at Law , and one of the Justices of the Kings-Bench in the year of our Lord 1666. Charles Pelham of Brocklesby in the County of Lincoln Esq ; , is descended from Sir Edmond Pelham of Grayes-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer in Ireland in the Reign of King James ; which Sir Edmond was descended of the Ancient and Worshipful Family of the Pelhams of Lawton in Sussex , where Sir John Pelham Baronet , the eldest branch thereof , now resideth . Francis Lane of Glen in the County of Northampton Esq ; , is descended from Thomas Lane of Lincolns Inn Esq ; , one of the Readers of that House in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Thomas Mead of Wenden in the County of Essex Esq ; , is descended from Thomas Mead of the Middle-Temple Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Thomas Neale of Wollaston in the County of Northampton Esq ; , is descended from Sir Richard Neale Knight , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the several Reigns of Edward the Fourth , Edward the Fifth , Richard the Third , and Henry the Seventh . Robert Redmayne of Foulforth in the County of York Esq ; , is descended from Edward Redmayne a learned Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , and one of the Readers of that ancient Society in the Reign of King-Henry the Seventh . John Powtrell of West-Halome in the County of Derby Esq ; , is descended from Nicholas Powtrell of Grayes-Inn Esq ; , called to the Degree of a Serjeant at Law in the first year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Nicholas Pedley of Abbotsley in the County of Huntington Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to Sir Nicholas Pedley of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law. Richard Hopkins of the City of Coventry in the County of Warwick Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to Sir Richard Hopkins Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of the Inner-Temple , and lately Recorder of the said City of Coventry . Littleton Powis of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , is the Son and Heir of Thomas Powis of the said Society Esq ; Serjeant at Law , and very eminent for his great Knowledge therein . John South of Skelston in the County of Lincoln Esq ; , is descended from Thomas South Esq ; , a learned Lawyer of the Middle-Temple , and one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King James . Henry Portington of Portington in the County of York Esq ; , ( a Gentleman of an Excellent Family ) is descended from John Portington Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . Francis Roper Esq ; , lately Gentleman Usher to Her most Gracious Majesty Queen Catherine , is descended from John Roper of Eltham in Kent , and of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Attorney General to King Henry the Eighth . Edward Thurland of Rigate in the County of Surrey Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to the late learned Sir Edward Thurland of Rigate aforesaid , and of the Inner-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , Sollicitor General to his Royal Highness James Duke of York , and afterwards one of the Barons of the Exchequer . Charles Stutevill of Daltham in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , is descended from Thomas Stutevill ( or Stotevill ) Esq ; , one of the Benchers of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . William Stratford of Barton on the Heath in the County of Warwick Esq ; , is descended from George Stratford Esq ; , a learned Lawyer , and one of the Governors of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . William Peck of the Inner-Temple Esq ; , a Gentleman of a very fair Estate , is the Son and Heir to Edward Peck of the same Society Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , very eminent in that Calling , and more particularly for his Skill in the Rules and Practice of the Court of Chancery . William Branthwaite of Swarston in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is descended from Richard Branthwaite of Lincolns-Inn , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . John Thorpe of Danthorpe in the East Riding of Yorkshire , Esq ; is descended by many worshipful Ancestors from Sir Robert de Thorpe Knight , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Edward the Third . Richard Shuttleworth of Gawthorpe in the County of Lancaster Esq ; , is descended from Richard Shuttleworth of Grayes-Inn Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof , in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , by whom he was called to the Dignity of a Serjeant at Law , and made Chief Justice of Chester . Charles Hare of Tottenham-High-Cross , in the County of Middlesex Esq ; , is descended from Sir Nicholas Hare of the Inner-Temple Knight , Reader thereof in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth ; to which Prince he was Master of the Requests , and by King Edward the Sixth was constituted Master of the Rolls . Nicholas Townley of Royle in the County of Lancaster Esq ; , ( of the Ancient and Honorable Family of Townleys of Townley in the said County ) is descended from Nicholas Townley Esq ; , a learned Lawyer of Grayes-Inn , and one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Robert Spelman of Holme in the County of Norfolk Esq ; is descended from the learned Sir John Spelman of Grayes-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Court of Kings Bench in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . William Sydenham of Winford Eagles in the County of Dorset Esq ; , is one of the Descendants of Richard Sydenham Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Richard the Second . John Boyse of Pottshanger in the County of Kent Esq ; , is descended from John Boyse of Grayes-Inn Esq ; divers times Reader of that Honorable Society , and Attorney of the Dutchy of Lancaster in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Richard Naylour of Offord-D'arcey in the County of Huntington Esq ; , is descended from William Naylour Esq ; , one of the Six Clerks in the High and Honorable Court of Chancery in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . James George of Bawnton in the County of Glocester Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to John George of Bawnton aforesaid Esq ; , a Person of great Loyalty , and one of the Benchers of the Middle Temple for many years before his Death . Edward Salter of Rich-Kings in the County of Bucks Esq ; , is the Grandson and Heir to Sir Edward Salter Knight , a learned Lawyer , and one of the Masters of the Court of Chancery in the Reign of His late Majesty King Charles the First of blessed Memory . Challoner Chute of the Vine in the County of Southampton Esq ; ▪ a Gentleman of a fair Estate , is the Son and Heir to Challoner Chute of Sutton-Court in the County of Middlesex Esq ; , a Person of great Abilities and Practice in the Law. Nicholas Martyn of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to Nicholas Martyn Esq ; , a late learned Lawyer of the said honorable Society . Roger Portington of Barnsby upon Dun in the West-Riding of the County of York Esq ; , is descended from John Portington Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Twenty second year of the Reign of King Henry the Sixth . Robert Montague of Sharnborne in the County of Bedford Esq ; , is descended from Sir Henry Montague of the Middle-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law , Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench and Lord High Treasurer of England in the Reign of King James and King Charles the First ; which Sir Henry was descended from Sir Edward Montague of the same Society Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the same Court in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Charles Gerrard of Lamburne in the County of Berks Esq ; , is descended from Sir Gilbert Gerrard of Grayes-Inn , and of Gerrards-Bromly in Staffordshire Knight , Serjeant at Law , Attorney General , and Master of the Rolls in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Ralph Leicester of Toft in the County of Chester Esq ; , ( a younger Branch of the worthy Family of the Leicester's of Nether-Tabley in the said County ) is descended from Roger de Leicester one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Edward the First . Thomas Yarbrough of Campsall in the West Riding of the County of York Esq ; , a Gentleman learned in the Law , is descended from Francis Yarbrough Esq ; , one of the Readers of Lincolns Inn in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Richard Godbolt of Hatfield-Peverell in the County of Essex Esq ; , is descended from John Godbolt of Grayes-Inn Esq ; , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Charles the First . William Roper of Brentford in the County of Middlesex Esq ; , a Gentleman of great Probity and Loyalty , and of an Excellent Family , is descended from John Roper Esq ; , a learned Lawyer of Lincolns-Inn , of which Society he became one of the Readers , and was Attorney General to King Henry the Eighth . William Broxholme of Barrow in the County of Lincoln Esq ; , is descended from Thomas Broxholme Esq ; , a learned Lawyer of Grayes Inn , and one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . Robert Houghton of Ranworth in the County of Norfolk Esq ; , is descended from Robert Houghton of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth . John Cary of Wilcott in the County of Oxon , is descended from John Cary of Holway in the County of Devon Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Barons of the Exchequer in the Reign of King Richard the Second . Peter Warburton of Abbots-Bromley in the County of Stafford Esq ; , is descended from the learned Sir Peter Warburton of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King James . John Gaynsford of Cohurst-Place in the County of Surrey Esq ; , is descended from William Gaynsford Esq ; , a famous Lawyer and one of the Governors of the Honorable Society of Lincolns-Inn in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . Gyles Eyre of Brickworth in the County of Wilts , and of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; , Recorder of the Town of Southampton , and Deputy Recorder of the City of Salisbury , a Gentleman of great Experience and Judgment in the Law , and of eminent Practice ; is descended from William Eyre of the same Society Esq ; , one of the Readers thereof in the Reign of King Charles the First . John Goodrick of Altofts in the West-Riding of Yorkshire Esq ; , is descended from the late learned Sir Francis Goodrick of Lincolns-Inn Knight , Temporal Chancellor of the County Palatine of Durham . John Scroope of Castle-Combe in the County of Wilts Esq ; , ( a younger Branch of the Noble and Ancient Family of the Lord● Scroop ) is descended from Sir Goffery de Scroop Knight , Serjeant at Law , and Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench in the Reign of King Edward the Second . Henry Shelly of Lewes in the County of Sussex Esq ; , is descended from William Shelly Esq ; , Serjeant at Law , one of the Readers of the Inner-Temple , and one of the Justices of the Court of Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the 8th . William Peckham of the City of Chichester in the County of Sussex Esq ; , is the Son and Heir to the late learned and Judicious Sir Henry Peckham Knight Serjeant at Law , and Recorder of the said City of Chichester . Robert Hyde of Dinton in the County of Wilts Esq ; , is descended from Sir Robert Hyde of the Middle-Temple Knight , Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Charles the First , and upon His Majestie 's Restoration was first constituted one of the Justices of the Common Pleas , from whence he was shortly after advanced to the Dignity of Lord Chief Justice of the Kings-Bench . James Zouch of Woking in the County of Surrey Esq ; , is descended by many Noble Ancestors from Allan le Zouch Lord Chief Justice of England in the Reign of King Henry the Third . Robert Bernard of Syleby in the County of Leicester Esq ; , is descended from Sir Robert Bernard of Brampton in the County of Huntington Knight and Baronet , a wealthy and learned Serjeant at Law , being called to that Degree in the year 1660. Thomas Needham of Dutton in the County of Chester Esq ; , ( a Gentleman of great Honor and Repute , and of an excellent Family ) is descended from Sir John Needham of Sheinton in the County of Salop Knight ( the Ancient Seat of this Family ) Serjeant at Law , Chief Justice of Chester , and one of the Justices of the Common-Pleas in the Reign of King Henry the 6th . Charles Yaxley of Yaxley-Hall in the County of Suffolk Esq ; , is descended from John Yaxley of Yaxley aforesaid Esq ; , a learned Serjeant at Law in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh . Humphrey Noy of Carnanton in the County of Cornwall Esq ; , is descended from the famous William Noy of Lincolns-Inn Esq ; Attorney General to King Charles the First . Henry Mildmay of Graces in the County of Essex Esq ; , is descended from Sir Walter Mildmay Knight , Chancellor and Under-Treasurer of the Exchequer in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , which Sir Walter was the Son and Heir to Thomas Mildmay Esq ; , one of the Auditors of the Court of Augmentations in the Reign of Henry the Eighth . FINIS . THE INDEX . A. ALlen , Pag. 69 Altham , 149 Anderson , 53 , 66 , 77 , 91 , 182 Andrews , 81 Anger Lord Strangford , 15 Appleton , 38 Archer , 135 Ardern , 134 Armyn , 231 Ascough , 124 , 220 Atkins , 108 114 , 200 , 208 Ayloff , 40 , 190 B. BAbington , 194 Bacon , 32 , 50 , 85 , 122 , 237 Bagshaw , 253 Baldwin , 223 Ball , 127 Banks , 83 Barker , 92 Barnham , 89 Basset , 229 Bastard , 150 Beaumont , 47 Beddingfield , 172 Bell , 181 Beresford , 173 Berkley , 186 , 252 Bernard , 86 , 275 Bindloss , 58 Bingham , 220 Boon , 205 Booth , 215 Boteler , 43 , 54 , 137 Bowyer , 76 Boys , 252 Boyse , 266 Brabazon Lord of Meath , 14 , 175 Bradshaw , 100 Brampston , 115 , 123 , 142 , 188 Branthwaite , 263 Brerewood , 188 Bridgman , 67 Briscoe , 232 Brograve , 88 Broome , 204 , 216 Bromley , 180 , 196 , 222 , 240 Brooke , 81 , 235 Browne , 128 Brownlow , 56 Broxholme , 271 Brudnell Lord Cardigan , 9 , 178 Bruce Lord Alesbury , 10 C. CAlthorp , 148 , 165 Carleton , 133 Cartwright , 219 Carus , 253 Cary , 149 , 151 , 271 Caryll , 156 , 177 , 199 Catesby , 190 Catelyn , 118 Cave , 53 , 254 Cavendish Lord Newcastle and Devon , 2 , 179 , 251 Caesar , 136 , 164 , 176 Cecil Lord Exeter and Salisbury , 3 Chaloner , 143 , 211 Chamberlayn , 65 , 223 Charleton , 108 , 239 Chisnall , 130 Cholmley , 57 , 234 Chute , 267 Clerk , 139 Lord Clifford , 27 Clopton , 126 Cockain Lord Cullen ; 17 , 67 Lord Colepeper , 26 , 48 , 51 , 147 , 229 , 246 Coke , 60 , 169 , 194 , 226 Conyers , 155 Coningsby , 253 Cooke , 88 Cooper Lord Shaftsbury , 11 Corbet , 51 Cordell , 71 Lord Coventry , 24 , 126 , 138 , 168 , 199 Crawley , 712 Lord Crew , 26 Cromwell Lord Ardglass , 20 Crook , 101 , 121 , 127 , 186 , 234 , 238 Curson , 80 D. DAllison , 36 , 173 Dalton , 142 Danby , 167 Daniell , 137 Darcey , 70 Darnall , 238 Danvers , 66 , 214 , 240 Delves , 44 , 243 Denn , 228 Denton , 189 Dereham , 82 Diggs , 213 Dowdswell , 193 Downes , 227 Drax , 246 Drury , 130 , 229 , 247 E. EArle , 175 Egerton Lord Bridgewater , 4 Ellis , 73 Empson , 232 Engham , 119 Englefield , 40 Ernley , 78 , 105 Estcourt , 121 Eyre , 272 F. LOrd Farfax , 17 , 29 , 242 , 250 Faunt , 220 , 252 Finch Lord Nottingham , 13 , 152 Fitz Herbert , 166 , 191 , 225 , 244 Fitz James , 127 Fleetwood , 128 Forster , 120 Fortescue , 90 , 161 , 177 Foster , 66 Fountain , 218 Frampton , 235 Franklyn , 111 G. GAscoigne , 102 Gaudy , 80 , 88 , 160 , 179 Gaynsford , 272 Gell , 60 George , 267 Gerrard Lord Maxfield , &c. 11 , 95 , 246 , 269 Glanvill , 225 , 256 Glyn , 81 Godbolt , 270 Goodrick , 273 Gosnold , 254 Griffin , 145 Guilford , 163 H. HAles , 38 , 74 , 148 Halton , 63 Hare , 264 Harpur , 46 , 175 , 218 Hare Lord Colrain , 30 , 55 Harvey , 120 , 165 Lord Hatton , 16 , 54 Heath , 112 , 210 Hele , 49 Henly , 73 , 79 , 111 , 249 Henden , 138 Herlackenden , 208 Hesketh , 255 Hide Lord Clarendon and Rochester , 9 Higham , 228 , 249 Hill , 141 , 211 Hobert , 33 , 226 , 251 Hody , 237 , 256 Holloway , 254 Hopkins , 260 Hopton , 163 Houghton , 271 Howard Duke of Norfolk , &c. 1 , 2 , 117 , 130 , 221 , 241 Hussey , 36 , 83 Hutton , 257 Hyde , 274 I. JAckson , 77 Jenuy , 226 Ingilby , 61 , 242 Ingoldsby , 84 , 119 Irby , 182 Ireland , 132 K. KEble , 248 Keeling , 224 Kingsmill , 193 , 247 Knightly , 75 Knivett , 125 L. LAne , 258 Leicester , 75 , 269 Lenthall , 183 , 239 Lister , 208 , 230 Littleton , 41 , 49 , 63 , 141 , 174 Long , 87 Lord Lovelace , 24 , 184 , 222 Lowther , 61 , 102 , 173 Luke , 257 Lukener , 159 M. MAllet , 129 , 227 Markham , 62 , 157 , 214 Martyn , 95 , 268 Maunsfield , 200 May , 109 Mead , 259 Meynell , 190 Mildmay Lord Fitzwalter , 18 , 276 Milward , 176 Mingay , 188 Montague Lord Manchester , 6 , 104 , 213 , 217 , 268 Moore , 48 Mordant , Lord Peterborough , 8 , 37 , 184 Morgan , 204 Moreton , 258 Mounson , 34 Moyle , 134 N. NApier , 41 Naylour , 266 Neale , 259 Needham Lord Kilmurry , 30 , 275 Nelthorpe , 93 Newdigate , 99 Nicholls , 56 Nitingall , 51 , 186 Lord North , 22 , 27 , 70 , 131 , 153 , 250 Norton , 45 , 197 , Norwich , 55 Noy , 189 , 276 O. OFfley , 255 Oldsworth , 231 Onslow , 96 Osbaldeston , 91 Overbury , 143 , 185 Owen , 139 P. PAckington , 44 Lord Paget , 21 Palmer , 68 Palmes , 192 Parkins , 101 Paston Lord Yarmouth , 12 , 224 Peck , 263 Peckham , 274 Pedley , 260 Pelham , 258 Pettit , 245 Lord Petre , 22 , 192 , 230 Phesant , 195 Philipps , 42 , 147 206 , 243 , 255 Piggott , 132 Playters , 46 Plowdon , 157 Poole , 99 Pooley , 125 , 244 Popham , 115 Portington , 261 , 268 Portman , 39 Powtrell , 260 Powis , 261 Puckering , 43 Purefoy , 195 Pye , 134 R. RAinsford , 209 Read , 79 Redmayne , 259 Reeve , 87 Reynell , 207 Rhodes , 58 , 217 Rich Lord Warwick , 5 , 97 , 144 , 146 , 202 Lord Richardson , 29 Robinson , 136 Rolles , 140 Rookby . 78 Roper Lord Tenham , 23 , 232 , 262 , 270 S. SAckvill Lord Dorset , 3 , 218 , 241 Salter , 267 , ●awyer , 109 Scroop , 228 , 236 , 273 Scott , 133 , 194 Scroggs , 113 Sedley , 38 Selby , 89 Seys , 154 , 205 , 216 Sheffeild Lord Mulgrave , 7 , 243 Shelly , 34 , 273 Sherly , 93 Shukburgh , 203 Shuttleworth , 264 Sidenham , 56 , 146 , 240 Skipwith , 45 , 100 , 206 , 227 Smith Lord Carington , 25 Snagg , 194 South , 261 Southcott , 85 Spelman , 221 , 234 Spencer , 37 Stanford , 167 Stapleton , 70 , 86 , 248 Stephens , 122 Stonher , 159 Strangwaies , 155 Stratford , 263 Stutevill , 262 Sylyard , 82 , 116 , 180 219 Sympson , 160 T. TAte , 239 Taylor , 92 Tempest , 45 , 90 Thorold , 62 Thorpe , 264 Thurland , 262 Thymelby , 184 Thyn Lord Weymouth , 16 Tildesly , 161 Tirwhit , 35 , 207 , 236 Tooker , 91 Townley , 265 Townsend Lord Raynham , 15 , 145 , 209 , 203 Trever , 58 Trevanion , 185 , 249 Trotman , 197 Turner , 112 , 198 , 231 , 250 Turpin , 189 Twisden , 94 , 212 Tyrrel , 92 V. VAvasour , 52 , 244 Vaughan , 182 Vernon , 74 Vnderhill , 144 W. WAlmesly , 168 Walpole , 132 , 245 Walsh , 247 Walter , 59 , 236 Warburton , 72 , 271 Weston Lord Portland , 8 Wetenhall , 206 Whichcot , 67 Whitlock , 123 , 171 Wilbraham , 176 Wilde , 76 Willoughby , 98 , 201 , 203 Winch , 69 Wingate , 131 Wivell , 248 Wolseley , 53 Wood , 124 Woodhouse , 35 Wray , 39 , 71 Wroth ; 76 Wyndham , 84 , 96 , 106 , 164 , 251 Y. YArborough , 117 270 Yaxley , 275 Yelverton Lord Grey , 19 Yorke , 150 Young , 84 Z. ZOuch , 135 , 274. FINIS . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A54698-e510 Howard . D. of Norfolk . E. Suffolk . E. Berkshire . E. Carlisle . Ld. Stafford . Ld. Effingham . Ld. Escrick . D. of Newcastle . E. of Devonshire . E. of Dorsett . E. of Salisbury . E. of Exeter . E. of Bridgewater . E. of Warwick . E. of Manchester . E. of Sandwich . Ld. Montague . E. of Mulgrave . E. of Peter-Borough . Viscount Mordant . E. of Portland . E. of Clarendon . E. of Rochester . E. of Cardigan . E. of Alesbury . E. of Shaftesbury . E. of Macklesfield . Ld. Gerrard E. of Yarmouth . E. of Nottingham . E. of Meath . E. of Longford . Viscount Raynham . Viscount Weymouth . Ld. Hatton , Viscount Gretton . Viscount Farefax . Lord Cullen . Lord. Fitz Walter . Ld. Grey of Ruthyn . Ld. Cromwel . Ld. Pagett . Ld. North , and Grey . Lord Petre. Ld. Tenham . Ld. Lovelace . Ld. Coventry ▪ Ld. Carrington . Ld. Colepeper . Ld. Crew . Ld. Clifford of Chudleigh . Ld. North , Baron of Guilford . Ld. Farfax . Ld. Richardson . Ld. Colerane . Ld. Kimurry . Notes for div A54698-e7220 Bacon . Hobart . Shelly . Mounson . Woodhouse . Tirwhit . Dallison . Hussey . Mordant . Spencer . Appleton . Sedley . Hales . Portman . Wray . Ayloff . Wivell . Englefield . Napier . Littleton . Philipps . Newton . alias Puckering . Boteler . Packington . Delves . Norton . Skipwith . Tempest . Playters . Harpur . Beaumont . Colepeper . Moore . Hele. Littleton . Bacon . Corbett . Nitingall . Colepeper . Vavasour . Wolsely ▪ Anderson . Cave . Boteler . Hatton . Hare . Norwich . Brownlow . Sidenham . Nicholls . Cholmley ▪ Trevor . Rhodes . Bindloss . Walter . Coke . Gell. Ingilby . Lowther . Markham . Thorold . Halton ▪ Littleton . Chamberlain Danvers . Anderson . Foster . Cockain . Whichcott . Bridgeman . Palmer . Winch. Allen. North. Darcey . Stapleton . Cordell . Wray . Warburton ▪ St. John. Henley . Ellis . Hales . Vernon . Leicestar . Knightly . Bowyer . Wilde . Wroth. Anderson . Ward . Jackson . Rookeby . Ernley . Read. Henley . Golding . * This Sir Charles Golding is not properly placed ; for in point of Precedency , he ought to stand next above Sir Thomas Littleton of Stoke-Milburge , Baronet . Gawdy . Curson . Glyn. Brooke . Andrewe . Dereham . Sylyard . Hussey . Bankes . Ingoldsby ▪ Young. Wyndham . Southcott . Bacon . Stapleton . Bernard . Long. Reeve . Brograve . Cooke . Gawdy . Barnham , Selby . Fortescue . Tempest . Osbaldeston . Tooker . Anderson . Tayler . Tyrell . Barker . Shirly . Nelthrope ▪ Twisden . Gerrard . Martyn . Bridgeman . Windham . Onslow . Rich. Hoskins . Willoughby . Newdigate . Poole Skipwith . Bradshaw . Parkins . Crooke . Gascoigne . Lowther . Notes for div A54698-e22710 Mountague . Ernley . Wyndham . Charleton . Atkins . May. Sawyer . Franklyn . Henley . Heath . Turner . Scroggs ▪ Atkins ▪ Brampston . Popham . Sylyard . Howard . Yarborough . Hoskins . Catlyn . Ingoldsby . Engham . Harvey . Forster . Estcourt . Crooke . Bacon . Stephens . Brampston . Whitlocke . VVood. Ascough . Pooley . Knivet . Clopton . Coventry . Fitz James . Crooke . Ball. Browne . Fleetwood . Clench . Mallett . Howard . Drury . Chisnall . North. Wingate . Ireland . Piggott . Walpole . Scott . Carleton . Moyle . Pye. Arderne . Zouch . Archer . Robinson . Caesar ▪ Boteler . Daniel . Coventry . Henden . Owen . Clerke . Rolles . Littleton . Dalton . Brampston . Overbury . Challoner . Rich. Underhill . Griffin . Townsend . Sydenham . Rich. Philips . Colepeper . Calthorpe . Hales . Altham . Carey . York . Bastard . Cary. Notes for div A54698-e32160 Finch . North. Seys . Coniers . Strangwaies . Caryll . Plowden . Markham Lukener . Stoner . Sympson . Gawdy . Fortescue . Tildesly . Guildeford . Hopton . Wyndham . Caesar . Harvey ▪ Calthorp . Fitz-Herbert Danby . Walmesly . Coventry . Coke . Crew . Whitlocke . Bedingfield . Dallison . Lowther . Beresford . Littleton . Harpur . Earle . Brabazon . Milward . Wilbraham . Fortescue . Caryll . Brudnell . Caesar . Gawdey . Cavendish . Sylyard . Bromley . Bell. Vaughan . Anderson . Irby . Lenthall . Lovelace . Thymelby . Mordant . Overbury ▪ Trevanion ▪ Nightingal . Crook . Berkley . Brampston . Mingay . Breerewood . Noy . Denton . Turpin . Catesby . Meynell . Ayloff . Fitz. Herbert . Palmes . Petre. Dowdswell . Kingsmill . Scott . Coke . Snagg . Phesant . Purefoy . Bromley . Trotman . Norton . Turner . Babington . Caryll . Coventry . Atkins . Maunsfield . Willoughby . Rich. Willoughby . Shuckburgh . Morgan . Brome . Seyes . Boon . Skipwith . Wetenhall . Philipps . Tirwhitt . Reynell . Lister . Herlakenden . Townsend . Raynsford . Heath . Bacon . Hill. Challoner ▪ Crawley . Montague . Diggs . Danvers . Markham . Booth . Brome . Seys . Rhodes . Montague . Fountayn . Sackvill . Harpur . Cartwright . Sylyard . Ascough . Bingham . Faunt . Spelman . Howard . Lovelace . Bromley . Townsend Chamberlain . Baldwin . Paston . Keeling . Glanvill . Fitz. Herbert . Hobart . Jenny . Malle Skipwith . Downes . Denn . Higham . Drury . Colepeper . Bassett . Lister . Petre. Armyne Oldsworth . Turner . Roper . Briscoe . Empson . Clench . Cholmley . Spelman . Crooke . Brooke . Frampton . Tirwhitt . Walter . Bacon : Hody . Crooke . Darnall . Charlton . Lenthall . Tate . Sydenham . Bromley . Danvers . Sackvill . Howard . Farfax . Ingilby . Philipps . Delves . Sheffield . Pooley . Fitz Herbert . Vavasour . Walpole . Petyte . Gerrard . Colepepper . Drax. Drury . Kingsmill . Walsh . Stapleton . Wyvell . Keble . Higham . Henly . Trevanion . Turner . North. Farfax . Cavendish . Windham . Hobart . Boys . Berkley . Faunt . Carus . Bagshaw . Conningsby . Cave . Gosnold . Holloway . Philipps . Offley . Hesketh . Glanvill . Hody . Hutton . Luke Moreton . Pelham . Lane. Mead : Neale . Redmayne . Powtrell . Pedley . Hopkins . Powis . South . Portington . Roper . Thurland . Stutevill . Stratford . Peck . Branthwaite . Thorpe . Shuttleworth Hare . Townley . Spelman . Sydenham . Boyse . Naylour . George . Salter . Chute . Martyn . Portington . Montague . Gerrard . Leicester . Yarbrough . Godbolt . Roper . Broxholme . Houghton ▪ Cary. Warburton . Gaynsford . Eyre . Goodrick . Scroope . Shelly ▪ Peckham . Hyde . Zouch . Bernard . Needham . Yaxley . Noy . Mildmay . 
A08063	----	A discourse whether a noble man by birth or a gentleman by desert is greater in nobilitie Nennio. English Nenna, Giovanni Battista. 1600 Approx. 349 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 104 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2006-06 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A08063 STC 18429 ESTC S112758 99848003 99848003 13075 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A08063) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 13075) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 1636:10) A discourse whether a noble man by birth or a gentleman by desert is greater in nobilitie Nennio. English Nenna, Giovanni Battista. Jones, William, Sir, 1566-1640. [4], 98 leaves Printed by Peter Short, and are to be solde [by J. Flasket] in Paules Churchyard at the signe of the blacke Beare, At London : 1600. A translation, by Sir William Jones, of: Nenna, Giovanni Battista. Il Nennio. With cancel title page, engraved. Publisher's name from STC. Reproduction of the original in the British Library. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. Gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. 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Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Nobility -- Early works to 1800. 2005-04 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2005-05 SPi Global Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2005-06 Emma (Leeson) Huber Sampled and proofread 2006-01 SPi Global Rekeyed and resubmitted 2006-03 Emma (Leeson) Huber Sampled and proofread 2006-03 Emma (Leeson) Huber Text and markup reviewed and edited 2006-04 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion A DISCOVRSE WHETHER A NOBLE MAN BY BIRTH or a Gentleman by desert is greater in Nobilitie . AT LONDON Printed by Peter Short , and are to be solde in Paules Churchyard at the signe of the blacke Beare . 1600. Who so wil seeke by right deserts t' attaine vnto the type of true Nobility , And not by painted shewes & titles vaine , Deriued farre from famous Auncestrie , Behold them both in their right visnomy Here truly pourtray'd , as they ought to be , And striuing both for termes of dignitie , To be aduanced highest in degree . And when thou doost with equall insight see the ods twixt both , of both thē deem aright And chuse the better of them both to thee , But thanks to him that it deserues , behight : To Nenna first , that first this worke created , And next to Jones , that truely it translated . Ed. Spenser . Here dost thou bring ( my friend ) a stranger borne To be indenized with vs , and made our owne , Nobilitie , whose name indeed is worne By manie that are great , or mightie growne : But yet to him most natural , best knowne , To whom thou doost thy labours sacrifize , And in whom al those vertues best are showne Which here this little volume doth comprize . Wheron when he shall cast his worthie eies , He here shal glasse himselfe , himselfe shal reed : The modell of his owne perfections lies Here plaine describ'd , which he presents in deed : So that if men can not true worth discerne By this discourse , looke they on him and learne . Sa. Danyel . G. Chapman to the Author . ACcept thrice Noble Nennio at his hand That cannot bid himselfe welcome at home , A thrice due welcome to our natiue strand , Italian , French , and English now become . Thrice Noble , not in that vsde Epethite , But Noble first , to know whence Noblesse sprung , Then in thy labour bringing it to light , Thirdly , in being adorned with our tung . And since so ( like it selfe ) thy Land affoords The right of Noblesse to all noble parts , I wish our friend , giuing the English words , With much desert of Loue in English harts , As he hath made one strange an Englishman , May make our mindes in this , Italian . Ex tenebris . MY artlesse Muse ( if any muse at all ) Couched in rude , in base , in home attire , Not fitting thoughts , or actions that aspire , But led by loue , and graced principall In this , she once was handmaid vnto skill , Would ( if she durst her stem to raise so hie ) Blazon thy laud , who of Nobilitie So much hast shew'd , and therein dipt thy quill . But sithe thy zeale to Honour Nennio Whom thy desires haue brought from forreine soile , Hath beene one cause of this thy taken toile , Vnwaited on with praise thou mayst not goe . For lookers on that doe partake thy pleasure , Must of thy vertue find the pretious treasure . Ang. Day . A Treatise of Nobilitie , written by the famous Doctor , and worthy knight , Sir Iohn Baptista Nenna of Bari . The first Booke . IT is a natural instinct in al liuing creatures , which causeth them to auoide such perillous encounters , as do most commonly crosse them in this life : Of the which we haue greatest occasion to beware , vvhen they are most dangerous , and noysome . Which was the reason , that remaining with my brother in the learned citie of Antenor , not somuch to the intent to get the knowlegde of some new Art as to learn the courteous and good behauiour of the place , being assailed with a pestilent mortalitie , in the yeare 1528. we endeuoured as much as in vs lay ( setting our studie aside ) to saue our liues ( to which opinion the most agreed ) and so we departed from thence , and came to the auncient citie that Iapiges the sonne of Daedalus builded , scituate in the fertile countrey of Pouglia , neere vnto the waues of the Adriatique Sea : Which place of abode was farre more pleasing to vs then any other , in regard wee were there straightwaies entertained of our deere parents , and in possession of our owne substance , from the which we had been a long time secluded . But the season drawing neere , in the which the earth beginneth to cloath it selfe againe ; this dangerous mortalitie followed vs euen vnto out own countrey , being besides ( without any pitie ) afflicted , with cruel & sharp wars , by the mightie inuasion of the Frenchmen . We being then brought to this extremitie , to issue forth , seemed by the wars to be forbidden vs ; and to forsake ech others company , by reason of the sicknes , seemed not the best . Wherefore that we might in some sorte discharge our selues of those heauie cares , which did alwayes oppresse our pensiue imaginations , wee thought it best with choice of delightes ( albeit wee reaped small profite by them ) to passe this wearisome time . As we led this kinde of life , I was one day against my will surprised with a dead sleepe , in the which it seemed vnto me , to be entred into a deepe and most obscure valley , where from a farre off , there came toward me a troup of yong ladies , all of them of verie venerable regard . In y e midst of which ( as their queene ) there marched a ladie , apparelled all in cloth of golde , set forth with most costly Iewels . After her there followed another , far stricken in age , yet worthy of great estimation , whose garments were of a sanguine colour , hauing a troupe of noble knightes going before her , some of them carrying in their handes ancient priuiledges , others trophees , & triumphes of their victories . Behind these I perceiued another ladie of soueraigne authoritie , whose eies did seeme as sparckles , and her countenance more liuely then anie I had euer before taken notice of , albeit she was verie old : Sometimes her bodie seemed not to surpasse the common stature of women , and otherwhiles on the sodaine you would haue thought y t she had exceeded the height of heauen : She held in her hands a roial scepter , and was attended on ( with great reuerence ) with a discreet , & learned company . To conclude , she seemed vnto me to be a most worthy ladie , of a mild aspect , and wonderfull view : before her marched the first three , as lesse worthy , who as she went had on her head a crowne , as the marke of a mighty queene ; her garments were distinguished with diuers yellow , crimson , and greene colours . And in as much as from her princely countenance , did proceed a shining light , I might easily perceiue al those things : & me thought y t turning towards me , she said vnto me . Yong man , the burthen of thy thoughtes , and the miserie of the life thou leadest , are not hidden from me : wherefore to ease the one , and remedie the other , depart from this place , and take some new helpe vnto thee , to the end thou maiest at the last purchase a more sure , and vertuous estate of life . Scarse had she vttered these wordes , before I heard a rude and feareful voice , which said vnto me : Packe hence , and be carefull of thy safetie . Being much amazed at that voyce which had euen pierced my heart , and with my spirites loosing my naturall colour ; at one instant breaking off both my dreame , and sleepe , I awaked : and after that I had a little called my wittes togither , I pondered often in my vnsetled imagination , what those thinges might signifie I lately dreamed on . Considering then vvith my selfe the trueth of her wordes , and how much man is rather bound to follow vertuous actions then vaine pleasures , which I had addicted my selfe vnto : I vndoubtedly determined , to followe her faithfull counsell , and vtterly to abandon that kinde of life , which by the ill disposition of time , I was forced to leade . Wherein notwithstanding , fortune seemed not greatly to fauour me : for much time ouerpassed not , before that the warre being in some sort appeased , all our companie togither with the ladies and others ( some being tied togither by kindred and allyance : others by knot of friendship ) as well to auoide the scorching heate , as the frequentation of much companie in so contagious a season ; transported themselues to a Grange of ours , seuen miles distant from the towne . There by reason of the conueniencie of a faire house , and of a most pleasaunt and wonderfull delightfull garden , we still remained , spending the time continually in such sports and pastimes , as the season of the yeare , the place and the companie did require . It happened on a day , that as Fabricio , and Possidonio ( two young gent. of our companie ) walked abroad , they espied a noble ladie comming towardes them , whose name was Virginia , accompanied with an honourable traine , who was going right towardes the citie : whom when they were come neare vnto , they entertained with such reuerence , as was due vnto her , and besought her to make stay in that place , & to dine with vs : Shee seeing her selfe constrained by their earnest entreaties , remained there with them , and was courteously receiued of this pleasant companie . After shee had refreshed her selfe togither with other ladies , she took view of the house , garden , & that which was most worthy to behold , the Gentlewomen , vvho alvvaies accompanied hir foot by foot , vnto the place vvhere the tables vvere couered for dinner : euery one of vs being serued in very decent & good order , & hauing store of good & delicate meats , & most excellent wine , vve passed out dinner very merily , not vvithout many pretie quips . In the end it pleased this noble Lady ( not vvithout great sorrow of the vvhole company ) to depart from vs , & hauing with most gentle speech taken her leaue of the gentlemen and gentlevvomen , she in like sort vvent her vvay , after shee had thanked them all ; vvhich notvvithstanding , the tvvo yong gentlemen vvho first inuited her , did still accompanie hir : but after they had gone some prety distance frō vs , she vvould not suffer them to passe any further , but staying herselfe and turning tovvardes them , shee spake vnto them after this maner . The gratious intertainment , the noble exercise , and pleasant abode of this frolicke companie , haue this day bound my heart vnto them in such sort , that I shall neuer lose the remembrance therof . Whervvithall taking a rich gold ring curiously vvrought forth of her bosome , she said : And to the end that you may be as mindfull of me , as is lawfully permitted , I doe bestovv this ring vpon him that is the most noble of you tvvo , vvhom I incharge to vveare it in remembrance of me . The conclusion of hir speech , and her departure vvere at one instant , leauing the ring in his hands , who vvhen she gaue it did not so vvillingly accept thereof . Howbeit Possidonio ▪ as one descending of an ancient & noble family , being besides indued vvith great riches , claimed the gift : but Fabricio , vvho reckoned himselfe nothing inferiour to the other in nobilitie ( albeit that his ancestors were not of so noble bloud , nor himselfe blessed with so great wealth ) hee pretended vvith great vehemencie , that the ring belonged vnto him , because that from his youth , hee had been vertuously raised to that substance he possessed , and thereby become wise , prudent and well conditioned . So soone as they were returned to their companie , they straightwaies declared the cause of their variance , shewing them the ring , which was framed in circle wise : on the one side whereof there was the picture of a yong ladie apparelled like a nymph , vvho held in her hand a royal Crowne , in such sort as if she would haue set the same vpon some bodies head , round about the which was vvritten in Latine Dignus coronabitur ipsa , Let the most vvorthy be crowned herewith . On the other side was the pourtraiture of a gallant young man crovvned thervvith , who held in his hand a green bough not much vnlike vnto an Oliue branch , about the vvhich vvas ingraued , Victor , & merito coronatus ; I am crowned herewith as the conquerour , and that by desart . But by reason the controuersie betweene these tvvo young Gentlemen , did grow more and more , vvho by occasion thereof arriued there vnawares , they were all of one opinion ( to the ende , that vvhereas this pleasant companie vvere mette togither onelie for their recreation , that enmitie and hatred might not grovv thorough this sodaine accident ) to boult out the troth of this their doubt , they shoulde one after another set dovvne their reasons , and afterwardes stand to the iudgement of a third person . A Gentleman called Nennio , ( one of the companie ) vvas indifferently chosen by them , for that purpose , vvho after he had heard the reasons debated on both sides , shoulde by his wisedome , giue iudgement and sentence , from vvhich they promised they would not appeale , but friendly rest satisfied therewith . Albeit that the burthen thereof seemed heauie to Nennio , yet did he willingly sustaine it , considering that peace on all sides would follow thereby . And because that on either part the discourse was intertained with no lesse profite , then pleasure , with pretie subtill argumentes , and wittie conclusions , I determined ( asvvell to auoide the heate of the season , as to keepe me from idlenesse ) with my pen ( such as it is , ) to set them downe in vvriting . A great part of the day was alreadie ouerpassed , and the sun in his declining , when as both the Gentlemen & ladies by common consent did descend to the most pleasant place of the garden , vvhere vve sate orderly in circle-wise vpon the thin grasse , which vnder the shadowy-sweet-smelling trees was defended from the parching heate of the sunne beames . Possidonio , as one desirous to be the first that should enter into the listes , was set in a place somewhat higher than the rest ; vvho after he saw vs all equally attentiue , and that our eares seemed as it were readie to heare him , gaue this beginning vnto his speech . Fabricio , If I knewe thee to be of that force , that thou wert able to impugne the least of my reasons , how weake soeuer they may seeme to be , I shoulde imagine my selfe to be in farre greater danger then I am . But contrarily , it cannot anie way sinke into my thought , by vvhat meanes thou art able to resist them , nor with what reason that carrieth with it a resemblance of troth , thou art able to arme thy selfe against me . Wherfore in my opinion it were far more fit , & more commendable before so worthy an audience ( to the end the mindes of the assistantes might be more intentiue ) to discourse of some other question more doubtful then this we are to intreate of , it rather becomming thy estate and condition , euen at the beginning to keepe silence : and yet it may be , that this discourse liketh thee better , that thereby thou maiest set forth the ancient and honourable stocke of thy predecessors , and their great large riches and reuenues . Howsoeuer it be , that thou maiest not take me to be out of the matter , I will returne to our disputation . Worthy Gentlemen , the doubt vvhich this day is hapned amongst vs , is not vnknowne vnto you ( if so it be that vve ought to call it a doubt ) for surely a more easie controuersie did neuer rise amongst men . VVee shall soone see if Fabricio be more noble then I am , or vvhether I am more honourable then hee is . He might vvith more reason make a question , vvhether the day be more cleerer than the night , or the sunne more hote then the Moone : and perhaps there might be greater cause to doubt thereat , the basenesse of his birth , and the vvorthinesse of my bloud being more then sufficiently knovvne vnto you . But seeing it is your pleasure that vve shall discourse thereof , I will vvillingly yeeld , being more constrained thereunto to satisfie your desire then forced by reason , not distrusting anie vvhit of obtaining the victorie . It lying then vpon me ( louing Gent. ) to prooue vnto you that I am a noble man , yea farre more noble then Fabricio : I will first shew you vvhat nobilitie is , which if vve do rightly vnderstand as we ought , I doubt not but that our controuersie vvill be finally determined without anie further debating of the matter . I affirme that to be true nobilitie ( for Fabricio , thou canst not varie from the opinion of all men ) vvhich of long time hath beene left by the predecessours vnto the successors , as a hereditarie gift , the name whereof is as wel imprinted in them , as the forme of the body ; in asmuch as hee that is borne of a noble family , so soone as he is broght forth into the world , is esteemed amongst the number of noble men , which is no lesse apparant then true ; for asmuch as if we consider any noble man whatsoeuer , surely those that descend from him , shall be reckoned amongst such as are noble men . Who is he so void of reason , that doth not account those as noble men , who are discended of the stocke of the Sforsi , of these of Ests , of the Gonsagui , and of a number of other most noble races ? Surely , no manne . He then is a Noble man , who is issued of a noble familie . Let vs then consider whether I or thou , are sprung of noble parentes , to the end that the most noble of vs both may bee knowne . Tell me I pray thee , and take no scorne to let me know , whether thy ancestors were Noblemen , or not : nay whether they were so much as reckoned amongst gent. which surely I beleeue thou art not able to shew me . If then no Nobilitie was lefte thee by thy auncesters , how doest thou now take that boldnesse vpon thee , to giue thy selfe the tytle of a nobleman ? By what meanes doost thou seeke to intrude thy selfe into the company of Gentlemen ? What hope hast thou to bee adiudged the more noble ? Surely I know not how I should perswade my selfe therein : but contrarily , you cannot make any doubt , but that this nobilitie was left me by my predecessors , for both my grandfathers , and their great grandfathers and their issue , haue still as it were from hande to hand , maintained themselues in the order of noblemen : forsomuch as they haue alwaies shewed themselues worthie men at Armes , and many of them haue beene lords of Castles and of Townes , albeit that enuious fortune hath bereft them of the greater part of this substance . I will not further inlarge my discourse , to recken vp what my predecessors haue beene , being certaine that they are no lesse knowne vnto you , then to my selfe . Wherefore it may well be concluded , that I beeing the successour of right Noble men , and thou borne of base parentage , that I am a Noble man , and thou art not ; and so consequently the ring which this day was giuen by the Lady Virginia , belongeth vnto mee , as to the most noble of the two . Now see Fabricio howe by little and little , I haue made it manifest , that thou art deceiued . Yet if so it were that thou shouldst denie my conclusion , which is most true in it selfe , I woulde so forciblie work , that thou shouldst of necessitie be constrained to yeeld therunto . For if they who doe expose their liues to a thousand dangers , as it were men banished from their own houses , the space of many yeares , in the seruice of their king , their coūtrey , or other princes , to purchase to themselues a glorious name euerlastinglie , did consider that so soon as they should depart this life , their renowm and their glorie should die with them , and not remaine to their children , and posterity ; he might surely be accounted foolish that woulde take paines , or indure any trauel or disquiet : but they waighing that this name which they did get amongst bloudy battails , did not onlie adorne their own persons ( which should indeed be but a smal thing ) but likewise all their whole stocke after them , they did not against their wil , but of their own accord enter into such toile , & labour . Whereby it followeth of necessitie that we conclude , that the selfe-same renowme , and the selfe-same Nobilitie , that was in their ancestors whatsoeuer it be , is trāsferred to their posteritie : Bicause that naturally we haue no better instrumēt , nor more perfect means , by which the glorie and Nobilitie which is in men , may indure longe , then their children & posteritie : by them nobilitie is preserued , by them the generositie of families is liuelie maintained . Hitherto the words of Possidonio were continued , with a wonderful attention and without anie interruption : when Fabricio turning himselfe tovvards him spake after this manner . Passe on no further Possidonio , for I intend to answer thee to that thou hast thus far discoursed , & thou shalt vnderstand whether this nobilitie vvhich we seeke for , doth remaine in bloud , or not : & then thou mayst at leisure proceed , for as thou shalt frame thine argumentes , so will I likewise answere thee . At which offer Possidonio paused , but the company vvould not suffer that Fabricio should intermeddle to answer Possidonio his discourse , vntill hee had ended that which he should bee able to alledge in his defence . Wherefore silence being made , Possidonio proceeded after this maner . You see moreouer ( worthy Gent. ) what operation nature affoordeth to the innobling of man. For if wee consider the gifts which it lendeth in the generation of man , you shall finde them wholie assembled in our fauour . Forsomuch as first it yeeldeth to this , that the ingendring of children is permitted to man , by meanes of his ovvn bloud ; and after that it hath brought them forth into the vvorld , it laboureth to cause them to bee like vnto those , whose natural bloud is dispersed in their bodies : herehence proceedeth y e excessiue loue which the father naturallie beareth to his son , vvhich to speak the troth surpasseth all other loues in this worlde ; as is best knowne vnto them that haue made tryall therof ; the ingendred being deemed a part and member of the ingenderer . Now whosoeuer he be that is begotten of a gentleman , and consequently of Noble bloud , who will once denie but that he is part of y e begetter ? Surely no man. Why then the worthy nobilitie of them , no otherwise then their owne bloud , is dispersed in their children , as in a part of themselues . And namelie adde heereunto y e naturall resemblance of the father , which oftentimes denoteth cleerlie in their posteritie , the gratious countenance and good members , not onely of the father , but euen of the auncesters likewise . Herehence afterwards it commeth , that as it were , euen the very manners , and liuely spirits with many of their vvorthy provvesses , are transfused into their children . And of this the valiant deeds of Scipio the great may make thee assured , which as I haue often heard , and I beleeue thou knowest right well , were not vnequall to the prowesses of his father Cornelio . The like haue I vnderstood of the other Scipio : and if these were not of themselues sufficient , I coulde alledge manie other moderne examples . But you may be easilie perswaded herein , by that which we see euerie daie , that vvhilest vve are children , vve doe so retaine within our selues , the childish conditions , vvhich are learned of our fathers , or of anie other whatsoeuer , that grovving afterwardes to greater age , they remaine so fast fixed in our hartes , vvhether they be good or euill , as if we had beene taught them by nature hir selfe : and according to the diuersitie of men , vve doe learne diuers sortes of manners , for a husband man his sonne ( or to speake generallie ) a Hosier his child , or such like , wil not be of the same behauior & value , as a gent. his son , bicause there is more care had in y e one , & the other is rudely broght vp . Wherby it is easilie gathered , that the maners and prowesse of the father is conueyed from him vnto the children , and so consequently his nobilitie . Seeing then that nature doth in the creation of man yeeld bloud and resemblance , whence this fatherly loue doth spring , to whom shall this sort of Nobilitie which we tearme of bloud be left , but to a man his own children ? surely not vnto straungers , which euen nature it selfe would withstand . Possidonio passed on no further being in his discourse interrupted by Madame Cassandra ( a wife and beautifull ladie of the companie ) who hauing a little called her wittes togither , set vpon him after this maner . If it be not lawfull for Fabricio at this time to answere thy discourse , Possidonio , yet shall hee hereafter haue time , and memorie sufficient to satisfie thy reasons . In whose behalfe likewise I doe not seeke to say any thing : and if I should , surely he should be but badly defended by me . But that which I intend is as strongly as I can to maintain those reasons which make for vs women : for without making any mention of thē , you haue sleightly passed ouer them . In your last speech ( if so be that I did wel comprehend what you said ) you gaue vs to vnderstand , that who so is ingendred of the bloud of a noble man , is nobly borne : In asmuch as nature hath granted thus much vnto you , that children are engendred by meanes of your bloud : whereunto you added the resemblance of the father , and his great loue towardes his children , which are all giftes of nature . Now , if we will by a more true meane consider the trueth of thy speach , I perswade my self that these gifts which thou callest gifts of nature , being more proper to the woman thē to the man ( as may easily be shewed ) that in the Nobilitie of man , the Nobilitie of the mother ought rather to be considered then the Noblenes of the father . Who is so ignorant ( at least if this Nobilitie which thou speakest of consisteth in bloud ) that the bloud of the woman is no lesse sought by nature to ingender children , then the bloud of the man ? Nay rather much more on our side , because , as you know , the child once cōceiued , is by the space of many months nourished in our wombe , with our owne bloud , & somtimes two yeares after it is borne : whence it appeareth that children receiue a greater quantity of bloud of the mother then from the father . I will forbeare to speake of y e paine of our bodie , the danger we are in , in child bearing ; the anguish , and labour we sustaine to bring them vp : al which things may euidently proue vnto you , y t the loue of the mother is far greater towards her child thē the fathers is : yea and somtimes likewise the child will as well resemble the mother , as the father : all which is most manifest . I say then , that if I would knowe if one be a gent. which is the marke you shoot at , I will haue recourse vnto the qualitie of his mother , whether shee were a gentlewoman , and not vnto the conditiō of his father , whether he were a gentleman , as you lately did argue : which may with reason be beleeued . But you men make laws as you list , & draw your reasōs as liketh you best , setting vs silly women aside , as if we were none of the number of the world : but if it were lawfull for vs to be present at your counsels , peraduenture matters would go otherwise , and so many thinges would not passe for currant ( as this should haue done ) as they do . Herewithall the ladie Cassandra held her peace , and all the ladies did highly commend that which shee had spoken in their fauour , when as Possidonio , not determining to replie anie thing vnto her wordes , spake after this maner . Madame , as for me it is all one , whether wee take the bloud of the father , or of the mother : for I not only both by my fathers and mothers side , come of noble bloud ; but my grandfathers , grandmothers , great grandfathers , and great graundmothers , were on both sides of most noble descent , as is not vnknowne vnto you . The wise lady did not rest contented with Possidonio his answere , as if he had spoken smallie to the purpose , when as maister Dominico , one of my brethren , determining to satisfie her demaund , taking the matter vpon him , said vnto her . Madame , I perswade my selfe , that if it were lawfull for you women to be present at our counsailes , as you saie , that your vertues would equall the Amazonian ladies , who banished their husbands , tooke vpon them the gouernment of the kingdome , and disposed thereof at their pleasure , defending with their sword the feminine libertie . Of the same mind was Valasqua queene of the Bohemians , vvho conspiring with the principall ladies of that kingdome , effected the same thing : but I beleeue you are not nowe a daies of so haughty a courage . Howsoeuer it be , I would not haue you beleeue , that you are any vvaies defrauded of your right , in that you propose , nor in any other thing in the vvorld , but rather vvhere anie fauour or aide may be giuen you , both the lavve , and the lavve makers , are readie therein : and you ought to be persvvaded , that men doe not make lavves as they list , as you doe imagine : for sometimes vvomen ( vvhen as lavves made by men , haue not been pleasing vnto them ) they haue boldly opposed themselues against them . As on a time at Rome a generall lavv being made , it vvas scarsely kept tvventie yeares : and it vvas this , that no vvoman should apparell her selfe in diuerse colours , nor weare anie ornament of gold that did exceede the waight of halfe an ounce , with such other like matters , by which the lasciuious and licentious life of women , was restrained : for the principall ladies of Rome being assembled togither , without any regard or shame , not without great danger of sedition in the citie , they did breake this lawe . Nowe then to satisfie you in that which lately you alleadged for the defence of women , in the middest of this disputation : I saie , that I do not denie that in engendring of children , more quantitie of bloud doth abound on your side then on ours , because that so soone as the creature is conceiued in your body , it is nourished therewith . But you ought to knowe Madame , that the men of the worlde haue established this lawe for firme , that in the Nobilitie of man , the condition and noblenesse of the father is considered , and not of the mother : for it is manifest , that when as in a subiect of perfection manie degrees doe concurre togither , wee take the name of the most worthy , and that of most power . As for example , wee see in the most renowmed maiestie of our ladie and mistresse , whose life being adorned with all worthinesse , and replenished with a most singular prouidence of honestie and holinesse , is not onelie bruted in our countrey , but thorow all the world , shee is lawfully duchesse of our citie , and of a large extent of land ▪ Princes of many other places , and most worthie queene of Polonia , and yet we terme her not by the title of Duchesse , or Princes , but alwaies call her queene , as the name of most worth , and most power . Nowe who doubteth but that the man , is farre more worthie , and of greater might then the woman ? Peraduenture Madame you will denie this . Surely you cannot , because this is no law which we men haue made , as you beleeue , but his law that hath made both man , and woman : when as hee taking displeasure against our first mother , said , man shal alwaies beare rule ouer you . It is then no woonder if wee seeke the condition of our father , as more worthy and excellent for the ennobling of man , then our mothers estate . Moreouer , consider one of these images , and behold likewise this stone which is neere vnto it , of the which there may easily another image be framed , which of these two will you deeme more worthie , the image or the stone ? surely in my opinion the image . Nowe a woman is no other thing then as it were that stone , that is to saie , a simple matter , and man is as the forme or fashion , and like as for the perfection thereof the matter doth couet the forme , so doth a woman for her perfection desire a man. We will then conclude , that a woman is so much lesse worthy then the man , as the matter is of lesse estimation then the forme ; or as that which suffereth , is lesse worthy then that which doeth . Hereof it followeth , that we ought to be called after the name of the man as the most worthy . So that this proposition is true , that in nobilitie , we haue onely to consider , the noblenesse of the father . M. Dominico hauing ended his talke , the lady being wel aduised , replied nothing thereunto , as though shee had been thoroughly satisfied therwith , when as Possidonio following on his enterprise , began to speake after this maner . Gentlemen and ladies : The force which nature giueth to this nobilitie is so great , that wee see it doth not only preserue the same in man , but likewise in other liuing creatures , not partakers of reason , yea euen in plants , as we may see in horses , dogs , trees , and in other things . For if I desire a faire horse , or a good dog , or if I intend to graft any excellent fruit , I will first of al seeke out the most noble horse , the best hunting spaniell , and the most excellent tree of that sort which I can possibly finde , because it wil neuer faile to prooue like vnto that which hath engendred it , or to the plant . And euerie kind ( to which nature hath giuen vertue to bring forth fruite ) produceth it like , and not disagreeing to it selfe , as we may see euerie where : whence it commeth to passe that man cannot engender any other thing then man. Wherefore if thou grauntest vnto me Fabricio ( and impossible it is but thou shouldest yeeld thereunto ) that if I be descended of a noble family , it must needs follow ( if we will not gainsay the law of nature ) that I am a noble man. Possidonio paused a while from his discourse , or els made some stay to bethinke himselfe howe hee might further proceede to fortifie his enterprise , and to trouble his enemie , or rather cleane to stop vp the passage , that he might without any outrage obtaine the desired victorie ; when as Madam Laura ( the yongest amongst the ladies , though no lesse indued with wit and vertue then the rest , being besides of a quicke capacitie ) turning towardes Possidonio , with a womanlike bashfulnesse , opened her corall lips , and began to speake in this sort . Possidonio and Fabricio , I know not whether it may become me or no , to entermeddle with your disputations , which perhaps are not fit for ladies , especiallie for me which haue so little to say : but being rather couetous to learne , then desirous to contradict any of you , if it may be lawfull for me , I will speake that which commeth into my remembrance , least otherwise I should be blamed for a ladie of no sound iudgement , and full of presumption . Fabricio immediatly gaue this answere . God forbid Madame , nay rather your vertue thereby will appeare more clearer , replenished with most sound iudgment , and not as you say , worthy any blame . For albeit it is not so beseeming for ladies to discourse of this argument , as it is delightfull to heare thē ; notwithstanding it shal be a thing lawful , & permitted both for your self , the rest of these ladies , and anie of the gentlemen , to entermeddle and speake what so shall come into their mindes , whether it be in doubting , answering , reproouing , arguing , or resoluing of any thing , either on the one side or of the other , according to euery man his best iudgement . Forsomuch as the trueth of this controuersie ought to be drawne from vs all , albeit that Possidonio , and my selfe in mine owne defence are chosen to yeeld our reasons . Possid . hauing shewed himself conformable to Fabricio his wil , the lady Laura after a long cōtinued speech , with a womanlike voice , added that which followeth . This is no smal matter , that hauing demanded leaue for my selfe only , I haue obtained it for the whole companie . For the which I doe giue thanks vnto you both : which being said , she turned againe towards Possidonio , and spake vnto him in this sort . It seemeth vnto me Possidonio , that the scope of thy last words did tend to this end : that in as much as man cannot engender any thing els but man , that thou being descended of noble parents , art for that cause a noble man , which in my iudgement cannot in any wise be wel concluded . For albeit that a man cannot beget any other thing then man , yet it followeth not that y e same qualities shuld remain in the children which are in the parents ; & so consequently he y t is born of a noble man , albeit that of his father he receiue his being , and the forme of his bodie , yet shall hee not receiue nobilitie therewith , which is as a qualitie , which either may be , or not be in the subiect . Nay contrarily Madame , quoth Possidonio , he which is borne , receiueth in like maner the self same qualities : because that if a man be white , the child shal likewise be participant of his whitenes : if he be blacke , he shall be partaker of his blacknes : In asmuch as whosoeuer giueth the essence or being , he giueth likwise that which followeth the essence , which is manifestly prooued in our selues , and the Ethiopians . The yong lady stood at a stay , it may be not knowing how to frame a replie . Wherefore Possidonio hauing a litle takē breath , folowed on his discourse in this maner . Gentlemen , by that which may be gathered by the words which I haue spoken , you may perceiue that nobilitie in man is giuen him of nature , and infused in his bloud ; wherfore like as the lawes of nature are stable , & firme , so likewise nobilitie in the family of man thorow his bloud , by which it is continued , is permanent and durable . Here M. Iohn Francisco , one of the companie taking the speech vpon him , said in this sort . The force of nature is so great in the procreation of children , that verie seldom , or almost not at all , there is any difference betweene the father and the child , as I will make manifest vnto you , by a tale or historie ( if so you please I call it ) by which you may know the mightie power of Nature in the nobilitie of man. There was a gallant and noble ladie , who dwelleth not farre from hence ( whose name for the respect I beare vnto her , I wil not manifest ) married to a worthie knight , by whom she conceaued , and did beare a faire yong sonne . And as it happeneth very often , not so much in regard of the opportunitie which these ladies haue , as in respect that for the most part they liue daintily and idlely : it chanced ( whether it were thorowe loue , or of her owne free will ) her husband perceiuing nothing thereof , that she ioyned hirselfe to one of hir seruāts , so that in succession of time she brought forth two children . Now these growing further in age , the eldest did so farre exceede his other brethren ( for so were they all esteemed by the father ) as the supposed father , did surpasse the true father : for as he waxed bigger , so did he grow comely of personage , and quicke of wit , whereas the other vvere very fooles , and blockheads ; and the eldest of them did continually exercise himselfe in worthy and valorous actions , he desired to learne to be vertuous , hee tooke pleasure in horses , to run at the ring , and in al other honourable kinds of exercise , which by reason of his age hee was able to vndergoe , but the rest shewed themselues as base , & far from dooing any vertuous action : and indeed hee did no lesse shine amongst them , then the sunne amidst the rest of the planets ; the follie and cowardise of the other tvvo , vvas so great , that the common report did run euery where , that like as in behauiour and wit , they did differ from the other , so likewise they had another father : and their slothfulnesse ( besides that there vvas no resemblance betweene him and them ) imprinted so great a beleefe in the husband , that hee constrained his wife to confesse the troth vnto him , and in the end she being no lesse forced by experience , then by nature it selfe , she opened the whole secret vnto him . And besides the Lady I speake of , I knowe yet two other women , who although they be descended of base parentage , yet are they faire and gratious to beholde , who not contenting themselues with their husbandes , as ill disposed vvomen are woont to doe , did when opportunitie serued them , and do stil , take their pleasure with yong men of Noble bloud , bringing foorth fruite answereable to their voluptuous pleasure : and this I know for troth , that by them they haue brought forth most noble children , whereas of their husbandes they haue had most clownish creatures , so that euen in beholding their naturall forme , and the constitution of their body , they doe giue sufficient testimony thereof . By this you may see how nature sheweth her power in the nobilitie of bloud ; seeing from the same wombe is borne ( by reason either of the noble or ignoble seede ) a gentle and diuine spirite , and another abiect and base . And as concerning that Madam Cassandra , which you alledged euen now : answere might be made vnto you besides that which already is saide ; That albeit in the generation of mankind there aboundeth more bloud on the woman her part , greater daungers , and greater labours , yet notwithstanding we ought to haue regard vnto the dignitie of the man , and not of the woman : for as concerning this matter we will compare the woman to the earth , which bringeth foorth fruit according to the seed it receiueth . Hereunto maister Dominico again taking the speech vpon him said , These examples of yours M. Iohn Frācisco , doe bring into my remembrance the successe of Romulus and Remus , who descended of the auncient royall stocke of the Siluit , and were as histories doe report , being little ones , by the commandement of their vncle Amulius , cast into the riuer Tyber , on the bāks whereof Faustulus maister of the kinges sheepe did find them , who knowing who they were gaue them to Laurencia his wife , that she might bring them vp ; who notwithstanding was called a shee Wolfe , because she did willinglie yeeld her bodie as common amongst the shepheards . Now these children being brought vp in Faustulus his flocke , and growing in age , they did not intend the keeping of the beasts , nor the leading of a country life , but first giuing themselues to hunting , afterwardes to set vpō theeues , who were often endamaged by them , they began to shew the valor which was in them . And as fit occasion fel out , Faustulus declared y e whole matter to Numitor , whoe before was banished out of the kingdome by his brother Amulius , which hee hauing vnderstood , immediatly his mind gaue him that they were his nephews , and comparing the time with their age , and considering their countenance , he verely affirmed , that they seemed not to bee clownes , nor of any base birth , but as if Nature hadde certified the troth , hee knewe that they came of the bloud Royall , and so accepted them for his Nephewes : now whosoeuer will knowe what valour they were of , let him read further of them . You may then see maister Iohn Francisco , howe nature doth manifest the power of Nobilitie of bloud : for albeit they were nourished amongest shepheardes , yet was not their bringing vp a hinderance to their naturall vertue . Maister Dominico hadde not so soone ended his talke , but Possidonio taking the speeche vppon him , followed on his discourse in this sort . Gentlemen ; henceforward let vs forbeare to bring so many reasons , as nature doth afford vs for the Nobility of bloud , for surely time would not suffice to aledge al that may be said in that behalfe ; & let vs a little weigh that which the cōmon brute & opinion of men dooth generally d●em & beleeu therof I wuld lern this of thee Fabricio , vvhat Towne , what Castle , and what village it is , where thou shalt not find this a general and common custome , to cal and account those noblemen , who are borne of a noble stocke ? Surelie ( as I beleeue ) no place in the world . Nay rather so soone as they are brought forth , they are reckoned amongst the number of those that are reputed noble , and men doe not without reason attribute vnto them such priuiledges as the countrey yeeldeth , sustaining likewise such labour and trauaile for the seruice and creation of them , as it behooueth them to vndertake . This is a generall custome , which we doe see is put in practise euerie where . And tell me I pray thee , if thou doest so much regard me ; if thou diddest desire to vnderstand or knowe whether one were a gent. or not , were it not sufficient for thee to heare that he is of the stocke of Sainct Seuerini , of the Carraccolli , or of the Carrafi , which are accounted most honorable amōgst the noble families of Italie ? Surely if thou dooest not swarue from common equity ; thou must of force bee constrained to confesse the troth . Now I desire that euen thou thy selfe mayest conclude , and iudge whether of the two is the most noble , seeing that my house is as well knowne vnto thee as thine owne and that it is sufficientlie manifest which of them both being named , is reputed the most noble . It may be thy hart will serue thee , to auerre that it is thy familie that is so renovvmed in this Citie . I doe not beleeue except thou wert madde , that any such folly would possesse thee , yet doe I perswade my selfe , that thou wouldst not be ashamed , with thy sophisticall arguments , to make men deeme , that white is black : yet know this , that it is an hard matter to resist the troth , & though I had not set vpon thee with any other weapon then this last , it were sufficient to make thee stark dumb But to passe on further , my force wil serue me to assaile thee yet more fiercely ; for albeit thou tokest me to daie vnprouided , yet haue I other weapons to set vpon thee vvithall . Gent. I hauing hitherto manifestly proued vnto you , both by nature and common custome , that he is noble , whom nature hath brought forth of Noble parentes : I will nowe with no lesse true , then pregnant reasons , confirme the same vnto you . I doe affirme , and it is not a thinge to be doubted of , that if any man or vvoman , did commit any act , that shame and reproch followed thereof ; not onely the said parties , but all their posteritie are spotted with shamefull infamie , which we doe euidentlie see euerie day : as for example , in a thousand places you shall finde such as are murderers of their own wiues , or haue laide violent handes on their owne flesh , or beene executioners of their own sisters , and such like : Only to repaire the insupportable dishonour which followeth the fact , which either the vvife , daughter , or sister may haue committed in giuing them selues in pray to others , it dooth like a pestilent mortalitie , which by bad gouernement entreth into a towne , spread it selfe all ouer , and infect all those that are of that stocke . Nowe contrarilie I say , if any man by his worthy prowesse , and lawdable actions , doth aspire to great honour , surely all his posteritie ought to bee partakers of that honour , nay they are not partakers therof , but it ought wholy and intirely to remaine vvith them . For it should be against reason , whereas infamy and dishonour shoulde by reason rather bee extinguished , that they should haue a larger scope to extende themselues in mans posteritie then renowme and glorie of man. My predecessors then , hauing beene men worthie of glorie , prosperous in renowme , deseruing honor , and consequently capeable of all Nobilitie ; it followeth of necessitie , that all their renowme , glory and honor , and their Nobilitie resteth in mee , as their successour . Shall we say the like of thy predecessors Fabricio , that there remaineth onely in thee , their worthinesse and Nobilitie , whatsoeuer it was ? Tell me if thou hast any such reason in thy braine ? But let vs yet proceede further , and I will yet alledge vnto thee another reason , to perswade thee more firmely in that which wee seeke after . Suppose a father hath two children , valiant knights , and replenished with great learning , by which they make themselues worthy of honour , the father himself notwithstanding , being neither of valour nor learning ; thou canst not denie mee , but y t for al this the childrens honour and renowme redoundeth likewise to the father ; for it is a common prouerbe , that the sons greater estimation , is the fathers greater honour . From whence wee see , that good fathers who haue care of their children , straine themselues in such sort , to bring them vp , as that thereby they merite high reputation . By greater reason then ( not passing , but therein following the order of nature ) the worthinesse and greatnesse of parents , is transferred vnto their children , as a part , and substance of themselues : by which reason I may necessarilie conclude , that this worthinesse , greatnesse , and nobilitie , which hath been in my auncestors , remaineth now in me , who am a part & very substance of them . Possidonio pausing a little to gather breath ; maister Peter Anthonie my brother , desiring to haue some part in this discourse , beganne to speake in this manner . Seeing that the Lady Laura ( with a naturall grace ) hath obtained leaue of you , that it is lawfull for vs to intrude our selues into your disputation , not only in doubting and resoluing , but also in arguing ; I will alleadge without passion or partialitie against any one partye , that which falleth into my remembrance fitte for this purpose : and if it strengthen thy side Possidonio , I promise thee Fabricio , I will doe the like for thee , as far as my memorie will serue me , and my vnderstanding will affoord me matter . Whereunto Fabricio answered . Spare not to speake freelie what so it liketh you , for you cannot doe me a greater pleasure , then in arguing to alleadge such reasons , as shall bee in fauour of the victorie on Possidonio his behalfe , and contrarie to my opinion , forsomuch as with little labour I shall refute them . So much the more willinglie ( quoth maister Peter Anthonie ) both my selfe and others , will heereafter speake that which shall seeme best vnto vs , especially , before the troth be by this your disputation discouered . There was then in times past , in the famous Citie of Rome this lawe ( amongst others ) helde in great reuerence , least that the memorable renowme of a valiant knight should with his life take ende , that the Images of those who had ouercome the enemies hoast , and conquered Kingdomes , not before brought into subiection , shoulde bee ingrauen and set in the most publike place of the Citie ; vnder which a remembrance of their actes was written , which yet at this day we see in many places . And that was done to the end ( as I may say ) to preuent nature in y t it could not giue ; which was to make them immortall by perpetuall commendation , as also to the ende that their successours pricked forward with the desire of like glory and renowme ( like as valorous horses at the sound of the trumpet ) might not fear the labours of the bodie , much lesse the dangers of life , to auoid and to repell from their countrey all aduerse accidents hurtfull to the same and to purchase for it , all triumphant and prosperous dignity that might bee for the auaile thereof . In troth the Images and triumphes inflamed mens boldnesse , and gaue them great courage , and these eternall remembrances , did mooue the hearts of men : who are naturally desirous of honour and glorie . For it was a thing ordayned among the Romaines at a certaine prefixed time , in festiuall manner to visite these bodies , and behold these Images . What more greater glorie & greater triumph may be desired in this world of any liuing man ? Surely the hart cannot wish , nor the toung demand any greater . Appliable to this purpose I say , that if these men in remembrance of their singular vertue and great courage , did attribute such great honour to images , vvhether they were marble or mettall , how much more did these owe to the liuing children , I beleeue no lesse , but rather more ; in asmuch as a fained forme of man , is lesse to be esteemed then that which representeth him truely . Which may bee apparantlie discerned by any whosoeuer , though but of small iudgement . For what occasion did the common wealth of Rome set in gouernment the Camilli , Fabii , Scipiones , Emilij , Catones and others , but for the glory and renowme of their predecessors ? See we not the same obserued this day among moderne princes ? It followeth then reasonably , that this grace and nobility which is in the predecessors , doth deseruedly remaine with the children . Scarce had maister Peter Anthony ended his discourse , when Possidonio pursued his speach after this maner . It should be surely a foolish thing , to beleeue that it remained with these immoueable and fained images , and not with their children . For what profit are they able to bring vnto the commonwealth ? surely none ( besides the example which by them is left to posteritie ) but the offspring of noble men may yeeld & lend great helpe vnto it dayly as wee see continually . For as much as if wee looke into the estates and common-wealthes of the worlde , which are gouerned diuersly : shalt thou find Fabricio that the rule and managing of them is graunted to anie other , sauing to those that are reckoned to be noble ? And if you demaund of whence this proceedeth . I would answere thee in my opinion , it ariseth of no other cause , then that the predecessors of him that is noble , hauing submitted not onely his goodes , but life also , to a thousand dangers and hazardes for his countrey , it should be great vngratitude , ( nay rather might we iudge it crueltie ) if that so soone as they receiued their last mortall wound , they shoulde slip out of remembrance , or that it should denie them the reward worthie their labours . Whereupon , that they may not incurre so great note of inhumanitie , the gouernment of commonwealthes ought to be giuen them , as good meanes to preserue them . And as they which doe represent the dead members of their predecessors . Maister Dominico added hereunto : we doe not onlie see this vsed in our time , as in the rich and well ordered citie of Venice and elswhere , we may perceiue that the gouernment and administration of the estate is giuen vnto gentlemen , but as I haue often read , the like was done in time past . In the citie of Rome at that time more renowmed then any other , the Senators were held in great estimation of Nobilitie . And if they were accompted in the order of Senators , and consequently of true noble men which were descended of Senators : We wil then say , according to the former reasons , that the Children and issue of noblemen are true and perfect noble men . These last wordes were scarce ended , when as the ladie Camilla , whose naturall whitenesse tempered with a vermillion colour , hiding her selfe as if shee had somewhat been ashamed , her face burning like fire , & turning toward maister Dominico , in whom she put great trust , with a womans voice sayde thus . It seemeth vnto me that this day you are all opposed to Fabricio , seeing that you cease not together with maister Peter Anthonie , to alleadge new reasons for Possidonio : but beside that hee himselfe in answering them can refute them al , I will not forbeare to pay you in such sort as you know . Madame ( quoth hee ) hereafter I will take heed , seeing that you are not pleased that wee shoulde entermeddle in this discourse , to the end that this day , I doe not against my will incurre a penaltie , which I am not able to beare . These last words gaue occasion to the companie of laughter : whereupon Fabricio , without any farther stay , sayd : Madame , let euerie one of them alleadge the most pregnant and strong reasons they can , for I shall not want courage sufficient to confute them all : doe not you know that the glorie of the conquerour is so much y e greater , as the force of the vanquisher doth exceed : which was the cause that Possidonio laughing more at Fabricio his speech , as making smal accompt thereof , then at the young Ladie , followed on after this sort . We doe not onelie finde this to be true in the gouernment of Cities and Prouinces , but likewise in Bishoprickes , Cardinalshippes , and such other . Thou shalt not see Fabricio ( and if it happen , it is verie seldome ) that these offices and dignities are bestowed vpon anie other then gentlemen . By which thou mayest well consider what helpe and profite those do bring vnto vs , which are borne of Noblemen , more then the fained images of the Romaines held by them in great obseruance , for an euerlasting remembrance . Consider beside those reasons alreadie recited , that with Princes , Kinges , Emperours , Popes and in anie place of estate , the noble man by bloud goeth formost , and hee which is noblie borne is onelie honoured , and to him onelie , the place fit for his nobilitie , is by good right alway graunted . M. Iohn Francisco , with a good grace added herevnto . We doe not only see this in vse among Princes , but also among priuate persons , that Noble men are preferred before other : especially , when they meete at banquets , where they are more honoured , and serued with more attendance . Maister Dominico taking the speeche vpon him againe said , I haue yet other reasons to alleadge in the fauour of Possidonio , but that I feare to incurre this day her disgrace , which I would not : The ladie Camilla , hauing by threates forbidden that , which gratiously you had graunted . To whom in anger shee answered ; And what woulde you say more , then that you haue alreadie spoken ? Madam , quoth he , I woulde say that : The great Architect of heauen and earth intending to send his only beloued sonne into the world to couer his diuinitie with our humanitie , to the ende to free man , who was miserably wrapped in sinne ( For scarce had he been framed by his creator , but he immediatly shewed himselfe disobedient towardes him , and that by subtle deceite of him , who rebelling against his maker , was with his copartners banished the heauens , and is eternally condemned to the depth of hell ) This diuine word , to become man did not chuse those parents in this world , which were of an abiect and base familie , but his wil was , to descend of the royal bloud of Dauid . He was surely most meeke , humble and poore , in that he loued al these things & preached the same to others , yet notwithstanding , he would not be born of a meane and base bloud as I said . If then this nobilitie of bloud , was esteemed of the sonne of God , man incarnate , how much more ought wee who are his followers , deeme it a thing to be beloued and reuerenced ? surely verie much . Doe we not reade likewise , that Herod Ascalonita the sonne of Antipater , of base linage , being chosen king of Iudea by Octauian the second Emperor , hee made a decree , that all the bookes wherein were written the noble and great generations of the twelue Patriarches shuld be burned , to the end y t he being not found there written among thē , by succession of time might easily be credited , that because hee was king of Iuda , was descended of the bloud Royall ( I meane of the stocke of Israel ) from whence the Patriarches were deriued , which he infinitely desired , to the end that he and his successors might be alwaies reputed in the number of noble men ? Doe not we reade likewise of Equitius , who being the sonne of a bondslaue and made free , did feine himselfe to be the sonne of the most renowmed Tiberius Gracchus ? What shall I say of him that tooke vpon him that boldnesse , that with a maruellous subtletie , hee perswaded the people of Rome that hee was the sonne of Octauia , sister of the Emperour , and of Marcus Antonius , and that hee was descended of the royall bloud ? And of that Barbarian , sprong of base parentage , who in regard of the naturall resemblance which hee did beare to Ariarat king of Cappadocia , alreadie slaine by Marcus Antonius ; tooke vpon him the courage to say that hee was king Ariarat , by which meanes the Cities of Asia , yeelded the kingdome vnto him . You may see how great a number there was of those , who not contenting themselues with their base birth , haue sought ( as manie do at this day ) to ennoble themselues in the worthie families of other men . Wee may then well conclude , that there is no small number , but contrarie the greater part of the worlde doe runne after this nobilitie , to make themselues worthy of glory , and leaue a memorable renowne vnto their posteritie . You may see then Madame Camilla , whether I haue had anie thing to say in the fauour of Possidonio , and whether I haue not stopt vp Fabricio his passage . Whereunto she answered , that which thou hast stopped he will easily breake through , and finde meanes to binde thee surely . Some such wordes passing between them , Possidonio followed on his discourse , after this maner . Surely , faire ladies , there is no man in y e world , which doth not desire and reuerence nobilitie of bloud , that exalteth those that possesse it , euen vnto the cloudes . Yet will I not recount vnto you from point to point , all that may be said in fauour thereof . Wherefore it is nowe high time , that I drawe neere the matter , and that I bring this my discourse to certaine true effectes . And surely in a fewe wordes , I may conclude , that he being Noble , who is borne of Noble Parentes , as I said ; there neede not be anie doubt whether the ring giuen by the noble Ladie , belongeth to any other then to my self , who am the most Noble . My ancestors Fabricio , were of no base house , I am not descended of any obscure parentage : but contrarily , there are manie ages that their renowne hath shined amongst men , & there is none of you that is ignorant therof , for there are alreadie manie yeares passed , wherein they haue exposed themselues to do their princes seruice . Ought the aid that they haue continuallie yeelded them , be of no account ? Inasmuch as they haue valiantly fought against their enemies , and couragiously opposed them selues against all hazardous daungers , not flying from any labours in the world . They haue not made anie accompt , neyther of heate , nor colde , nor of all the incumbrances , which did crosse them : and we are not ignoraunt how manie troublesome broyles they haue freed our Citie from , and what assistance they haue yeelded thereunto . Which the ornamentes of their victories doe sufficiently declare , which may be seene in manie places of the citie . I could ( if there were anie such necessitie therein , as there is not ) shewe you many auncient priuiledges which they haue receiued of auncient kings , by which it may easily be perceiued of what estimation they haue been , and whether they were reputed amongst noble men , or not . I forbeare to speake of the armories of our house , in the which there is no figure , nor marke , which hath not been graunted by some king or other . What wilt thou that I say farther ? truely it is irkesome to me to reckon vp any more . Thou seest what matter I might bring in on the behalfe of Nobilitie , and worthinesse of my auncestors , albeit that I haue to day alleadged as it were nothing at all . This is the principall part of Nobilitie , to bee able before men , at large to display the famous prowesses of his auncestors , whose glorie and renowne , to the ende that it may liue eternallie , doth remaine in their posteritie . Wherehence I might rightly affirme , that all their honour , glorie , magnificence , and nobilitie resteth in me . And to conclude , I may tearme my selfe as a part of those noble personages , from whom so great Nobilitie is proceeded . In my countenance appeareth their honourable lookes , and all their glorie , as in him who is their lawfull heire , shineth in me . This is then that kind of Nobilitie , which amongst men causeth a man to be renowmed and honourable : albeit there is another sort of Nobilitie ( as some will haue it ) of so great power , that although a man be not descended of noble bloud , yet doth it notwithstanding cause him to bee esteemed honourable . And that is it ( worthie companie ) ( as I thinke ) wheron Fabricio , when hee will indeuour his best to speake what hee can for his Nobilitie , will most of all extend his discourse vpon : for he will haue no other prop , nor staie , to keepe himselfe on foote , I meane , that hee will wholly rest himselfe vpon learning , and therewithall make his resistance . Wherefore it shall not be from the purpose , vnto that which I haue spoken , to adde these fewe wordes , by the which I doubt not , that without any great trouble vnto you , but that I shall shewe you , what Nobilitie learning can bring vnto man , when I shall haue set downe what I shall thinke thereof : which , it may bee , shall not be farre out of the waye , and you may iudge howe greatly Fabricio shall be deceiued . I say then ( worthie companie ) that not onely hee is a noble man ( as some doe beleeue ) who draweth his beginning from a noble stocke , as by that I haue alreadie discoursed you may haue vnderstoode : but likewise he is esteemed amongst noble men , who albeit hee be not descended of noble bloud , yet giuing himselfe vnto learning , doth gaine some credite and reputation amongst men . And this kind of Nobilitie ( if notwithstanding we ought to tearme it so ) certainly is recommended , as a thing no lesse good then laudable : but I doe flatly denie , that they doe attaine to perfit Nobilitie , except they receiue therewith this Nobilitie of bloud . Yet I will say , and it may be it is not farre from the trueth , that learning is rather an ornament of Nobilitie then cause thereof . And will say more , according vnto my opinion , that it giueth a certaine facilitie , or rather a beginning vnto man , to become honourable , but it doth not indeede make him noble , as peraduenture Fabricio , thou diddest perswade thy selfe . Forasmuch as if in anie matter wee consider learning meerely in it selfe , without anie other qualitie , or ornament that is required in Nobilitie , we shall finde that it doth not make him honourable , that possesseth it , but hee shall be like vnto a faire pretious stone , set in the middest of some base and vile mettall : and like as a small candle doth giue but a slender light vnto those that beholde it , I say verie small , in regarde of a great Torche : So doth this kinde of Nobilitie shine , in regarde of that other which I lately spoke of . And be not thou ouer hard of beliefe heerein , for I shall very easily prooue this vnto thee . Imagine such a one in thy mind , who is graced with good manners , learning and knowledge , but in bad apparell , as there are many such ; and likewise another , void of learning , but in braue attire fit for a gentleman , and that they be both vnknovvne vnto thee : what answer wouldest thou make , if my selfe or any other should demand of thee , which of these two were a gentleman ? Surelie as I thinke , thou wouldst say the last of them , and whosoeuer hath any sound iudgement would not thinke otherwise ; and this proceedeth of the insufficiencie of learning : for as I haue said vnto you , it is not of it selfe sufficient , at one instant to bring forth the effects of nobilitie . I say then that there wanteth somewhat else , and it is riches , which are an ornament , or rather a part of nobilitie , which if thou dost conioine with learning , it may be that then I will beleeue that he that possesseth both , is become noble ; for then two causes doe concur togither , neither of the which of themselues , would bee sufficient . He then that wil be accounted noble , ought aboue al things especially to abound in wealth . O how many learned men haue I knowne in my time , whoe contemning these goods ( for so are they rightlie called ) haue beene , and are yet vilely despised themselues . Doest thou thinke Fabricio , that now I tell thee troth ? Now I can but imagine what courage thou canst haue , seeing the ground more and more to sinke vnder thy feet , vvhat leaning stocke wilt thou haue , when as that vvhereon thy mind did most of all settle it selfe ( following thy false opinion ) doth least of all serue thy turne ? Learning will not much helpe thee , wherefore thou mayest boldlie put thy trust in somewhat else ; for in thee there is no nobilitie at all to be considered . Yet to the end that thy hart may not bee ouercharged vvith melancholie , I will grant thee thus much , that thou art become noble thorough learning , which being supposed as true , arguing in this sort , I may saie vnto thee . It is a matter manifest which can in no sort be denied , that dame Nature doth both in dignitie and perfection , far surpasse industrious art , seeing it doth onely in the operation thereof force it selfe , to imitate nature . Now this sort of nobilitie , which thou wouldst haue in thy selfe , is not naturall , but artificiall , bicause as I haue saide vnto thee , thou art not noble by nature , but ennobled by the exercise of learning , and so consequentlie noble by Art. But yet this is not sufficient Fabricio , I will yeelde thee many other reasons , to shew thee that I am more noble than thou art , although that there were Nobilitie in thee . Thou canst not in any sort denie mee , that as often as two equall thinges doe striue togither , but that all honour and reuerence is attributed to the most ancient : if then both of vs be noble , as I haue alreadie granted thee , and doe againe yeeld thee , ought not I to be adiudged more noble , as hee which descendeth of more ancient nobilitie , or contrarilie thy selfe , who art but an vpstart Gentleman ? Surely if thou leanest vnto the truth , thou canst not say otherwise . But God knoweth what occasion thou hast now to reioice , seeing that without taking any further paines , I haue granted thee that thou art a Noble man : alasse , I beleeue this thy mirth will be but small , being intermingled with so great sorrow . So that not onelie the ground will faile vnder thy feet , but likewise the breath in thy mouth , nothing remaining for thee hereafter to say . Thou shalt see that indeed hereafter quoth Fabricio , ( taking the speech vpon him with a good grace , stretching forth and wagging his right hand at Possidonio , in a mocking maner ) yea thou shalt well perceiue whether the breath will faile in my mouth , as thou saiest : for y u shalt wel feele of what force those new fables are , which thou hast this day set to sale in fauour of this thy nobilitie , and shouldest yer this haue well perceiued it , if it had beene lawful for me to answere thy arguments as I am well furnished with matter . Thou canst doe no lesse , quoth Possidonio , with a smiling countenance , then cal them new fables , seeing that they doe so newly torment thee : but thou shalt finde them true histories against thy selfe . Fabricio replied I know not what , at which instant the lady Aurelia , graced with beautie , and the guifts of nature , vvho vntill that time had attentiuely noted and passed vnder silence the wordes of Possidonio , turning hir selfe towards him , with a womans voice saide thus vnto him . Holding this thy last conclusion as true Possidonio , to wit , that honor & victory ought to be giuē to the most ancient , I would gladly vnderstand , if the same question which is this day betweene you two , did happen between 2. yong men equal in Nobilitie of bloud , to whither of the two thou wouldst giue the price & victory ? Mary to him Madam ( quoth Possidonio ) whose Nobility as I lately saide , were most ancient . To which she replied , but how wilt thou know , whether of the two were more ancient , for that seemeth a hard matter for me to discerne ? Madam ( quoth Possidonio ) it is a verie easie thing : for therein we ought to followe the common opinion of men of the country , when y e same cannot otherwise be determined by priuiledges , or other lawful meanes . M. Peter Anthonie added hereunto . Many yeares agoe , Madam , sentence is giuen in determination of that which you doe demand ; and as I thinke not onlie your ladiship , but all that are heere present haue read thereof . Whereunto the lady Laurelia said . We neuer studied these your disputations , which in regarde that wee are women , are as farre vnmeet for vs , as the handling of vveapons . Peter Anthony replyed , I doe not speake from the purpose Madam . I say that many yeares since , a question fell out betweene two noble young men of Florence , to wit ; vvhether of them vvere the better Gentleman , and of more ancient nobilitie in that citie : of the which , as euery man vvas affected , some men did prefer the one of them , some the other : Finally , it was adiudged that the Baronesi ( of vvhich house one of the Gentlemen were ) vvere the most ancient gentlemen , not onely in Florence , but in all the world . And hovv may that be credited ( quoth the lady Aurelia ) or concluded by any firme argument ? Mary , quoth he , it vvas confirmed with a most forcible reason . Forsomuch as all they vvho were issued of the bloud of the Baronesi , some of them had a very long & thin face , others extreamly broad , some a long nose , others very short ; this man one eie greater then his fellovve , that other one eie lovver set then another , & besides al this , their bodies very deformed , in respect of other men . Which thing gaue the iudge good cause to thinke , that they vvere made by nature in that season , vvhen shee began first to frame men , and so they vvere the most ancient , and most noble : vvheras other men vvere made , when as she knevv better how to fashion them ; who being not so ancient , were not consequentlie so Noble . So that Madame , if you desire of tvvo yong men , or of many , to know which of them is the most noble , look which of them is most deformed , for he is surely descended of the most ancient stock , and so the most noble . Truelie novv I remember ( quoth the lady Aurelia ) to haue read the storie as you report it . This nevv and vvitty argument of nobilitie , with the good vvit of the iudge , was vvith a pleasant laughter recommended of the vvhole companie , vvhich vvhen it was ceased , Possidonio began againe thus to followe on his discourse . Seeing that my tales are of no force , as Fabricio latelie saide , I know not truely hovv I should perswade my selfe , vppon what hee will laie any foundation , on the which hee may rest , nor with what reasons hee shall be able to vphold himselfe : in asmuch as if we speak of bloud , he cannot compare with me ; as a thing hee neuer came neere , as he will freelie confesse vnto me : if of learning , I will not begin againe to discourse any more therof : for I haue franklie spoken thereof what I think , and you may iudge as vvel as my selfe , whether it maketh for him , or not . It may be he groundeth himselfe vpon riches . Surely it should be an open follie to think so , much more to speake it . If then hee bee not to bee compared vnto mee , neither in bloud , nor in riches ; from which two things , true and perfect nobilitie doth spring : and if learning bee of no moment in matter of Nobilitie ; it may well appeare howe his iudgement is more then deceiued , and his will more then obstinate . And to the end that none of my reasons may goe without due proofe ; I will make this manifest vnto you likewise , to wit , that I surpasse him as farre in riches , as in Nobilitie of bloud , as I haue heeretofore concluded . Which of you gentlemen , are ignorant , that if the least part of my wealth were set on the one side , and all that he hath heaped on the other , that mine would not farre exceede the value of his ? which I doubt not but you will iudge superfluous for me to declare , beeing a matter cleere inough of it selfe . Yet seeing we are entered therein I wil not forbeare to speake thereof . Consider then ( worthy Gentlemen ) that if the great wealth and substance which is so much desired of mortal men , be not vvholie vnited in me , yet at y e least I possesse the greater part of it . For if vve talke of statelie Palaces , I am owner of such as cause those that doe behold them to wonder , and they are especiallie furnished with rich and pretious stuffe . If of pleasant Gardens , I haue many of them , which doe abound in all that which is beautifull to the eie , and delightfull to behold . I will not reckon vp vnto you , the fruitful fields , nor the shadovvy woods , from the which al that which is necessarie for the life of man , may bee gathered ; for thanks be to God , I haue sufficient store of them : lesse will I tel you what flocks of sheep I possesse : for it may be if I should speake of them to others , I should not bee beleeued . I will likewise forbeare to declare of the gold and siluer , vvhich is alwaies in my treasorie : & finally I refuse to speake of many other particularities , vvhich my selfe am ashamed to rehearse , and that bicause they are as well knovvn to your selues , as to me . I thinke it likewise very superfluous , to open vnto you , what great feasts , rich apparel , pompe , chiualry , musicke , songes , and al other manner of pleasures , sports , and feastings , which matters are no lesse necessary then honorable , to personages truly honorable , as things vvhich do of thēselues , shew themselues , and are wel knowne of you to be continuallie obserued by me . Now to the ende you may iudge aright , you ought to consider , what & how great , Fabricio his vvealth is . Scarce had Possidonio giuen ende to the sound of his last words , when as Fabricio moderately and suddenlie smiling , I knovv not vvhereat , and afterwardes shaking of his head , he spake in this sort . Truely Possidonio , thou dost this day lay a great burthen vppon thy shoulders ; if thou doost vndertake to shew others my wealth or goods ( as thou termest thē ) forsomuch as not only that smal time of the day which remaineth , no not a vvhole day would be sufficient to reckon them vp . Wherfore passe on further , and toile not thy selfe about that , thou needest take no care for : for if thou wilt , I wil yeeld vnto thee , not only that thou art rich aboue any other , but that al the riches of the world be in thy possession . I am very certaine Fabricio , ( quoth Possidonio ) that the troth doth force thee to grant it me . Wherfore this my proposition gent. is true , that I doe not onely farre surpasse him in bloud , but in riches likewise . And now vvilt thou yet haue the heart to vndertake to shevve vs y t thy Nobilitie is greater ? For I possessing al the ornamentes that are to be desired of mortal men , I cannot be perswaded , that thou hast any courage left to speake any more therof . Wherfore it would wel become thee to hold thy peace , and to yeeld , that thy reasons which are of no force may giue place to mine . It were then best for thee , not to charge so heauy a burthen vpon so vveake shoulders , for hauing to day without varying from the troth , alleadged so many vvorthy & excellent deeds of my ancestors , & made account of such great abundance of riches , wherhence the perfection of Nobility doth spring , I would but know vvhat thou hast to say ? It may be thou wilt inform vs of the braue combats and valiant battels of thy ancestors ? Or shew vs vvhat faire palaces & plesāt gardens thou hast ? Wherfore if as thou deemst thou hast any sound iudgment in thee , indure not any more that this matter bee further discouered ; but hence forward pronounce that sentence against thy selfe , which we attend from the iudge : which being said , he paused a little , and then followed on his discourse in this sort . I would here end my discourse , faire Ladies , were it not that I haue yet to say , that riches are an ornament and part of nobilitie , which if it were not a trouble vnto you , I would most willingly proue . It cannot be troublesome vnto vs ( quoth one of the Gent. ) casting vp his eies into the skie , seeing that the sunne is as yet aboue the tops of the trees . This aunswere pleased likewise the rest of the company , to the end Possidonio might follow on his discourse ; wherefore taking the speech vpon him , he continued in this manner . Ought not we , gentlemen , to esteeme of the grace and ornament which riches do bring to Nobility ? Vnto the which it hapneth like as to a garden , which besides all other dainties , is bewtified with diuers flowers which nature doth bring foorth : which ornament the night by the darkenesse thereof dooth hinder : nay it perswadeth sometimes , that it is rather an obscure valley then a garden , and yet doth it stil remaine the same : it is then the cleerenesse of the day that maketh it shew faire and ioyfull . Euen the very same may be said of riches : For if a man who is issued of noble bloud & high discent , wanteth them , it wholy darkneth the sunshine of his nobilitie : whence it proceedeth that hee is no more accounted noble , but one of the vulgar sort . We will then affirme , that riches necessarilie are the cause of all ornament of nobilitie . And this needeth not to seeme straunge vnto you , for experience ( from whence wee take all this assurance ) may make vs full certaine thereof : For if wee consider all those that are borne of any worthy family ( and as I am greeued to thinke thereon ) surely wee shall finde manie of them , who are constrained to maintaine life and soule togither ( as they say ) to plough the ground , or otherwise forced thorough contemptible pouertie , to serue other men , or els to auoid miserie , against their willes to take some other vnfit calling vpon them . And any man may of himselfe iudge the generall occasion , of so insupportable a mischiefe , which proceedeth from no other cause then for want of riches . But this euill should seeme but a small moment , if it were not cause of a farre greater : Seeing that from thence doth spring blemish in bloud , diminishing of renowne , increase of infamie , a generall dishonor of a mans house , and finally not only losse of Nobilitie , but therewithall of life it selfe . Who wil afterwards presume anie more to call such a one by the title of a gentleman ? Such a one I say , who for want of wealth and riches , hath derogated from Nobilitie , in vsing some base trade and vocation ? But what shall I say more , he becommeth thereby in the end the fable of the world , and as a miseserable wretch , is pointed at by the common sort , and made a laughing stocke . Doth it seeme vnto thee Fabricio , that these thinges are worthy to be accompted of ? surely no , but they are rather to be preferred before a mans owne life . And this I onely speake in that which concerneth the commoditie of priuate persons : but what shall I say of generall or publicke estates ? wherof we see at this day so many goe to ruine , for there are verie few commonwealthes , or communalties , as we do terme them , which do not for want of that which is necessarie , sincke to the ground on euery side . Howe manie Palaces , howe many Churches , howe manie Cities , doe there dayly fall to the ground , as ruinous , which because the estate of men cannot sustaine them , cannot be vpheld ? What shall I say of this king , or of that Prince , who being not of abilitie to resist the force of the enemie that assayleth them , for want of supply of money , do leese their kingdomes , their powers , and their crowne ? you should not heare of so manie ouerthrowes , you should not see so many slaughters : neyther shoulde you round about you feele so manie cruell actes , if they did abound in wealth : you may then henceforth iudge , whether riches be an ornament , and part of Nobilitie , or not ? And like as when they faile , they are cause of great inconueniences ( yea of more then I haue this day acquainted you withal ) So likewise where they abound , they doe bring with them honour , and glory : For therof first of all doth arise a glorie farre exceeding al other , as that which proceedeth of liberalitie , which likewise giueth as great renowne and honour to a gentleman , as can possiblie be spoken of . And who is so ignorant that knoweth not , y t without wealth such a glorie of liberalitie , cannot shew forth it selfe , as doth issue there-from ? Surely all men may wel perceiue it . Doe not the ancient stocke and families , conserue themselues in their nobilitie , by meanes of riches ? doth not the nobilitie of y t man extend it selfe the more , who doth liberally giue helpe to his friends , or to any other that hath need of succour ? doth not their nobilitie increase , with their lordlike garments , their great & rich banquets , their great number of seruauntes , their faire horses , their pleasant gardens , and such other thinges ? Thou canst not deny this Fabricio . Now tell me what man is he that can easily effect these thinges , if he want wealth ? Surely it is a thing not to be beleeued . Riches do driue all sadnes and sorrow from the mind : they expell all melancholie thoughtes from the imagination : they keepe the bodie from wearisome labour : they increase sweete friendship : they cause in man waighters of honor and renowne , and finally they are the occasion of all high fame and glorie . Who is he then so void of reason , who hearing these things so conformable vnto trueth , doth not iudge riches , not onely to be an ornament of Nobilitie , but an inseparable part therof ? Which thing you may the better consider , by that which experience teacheth , seeing that no man can mount vp to anie degree of vertue , or nobilitie , but riches must open the gap , and make the way . Who will denie , but that it had been impossible for so manie noble men and knights , as we daily see , to haue made any entry to vertu & nobility , but by their riches , much lesse to haue euer come either to y e end , or midst thereof ? O how many fine wits , & men of great vnderstanding haue there been , & are yet in the world , who employing their whole study in matters belōging to their house ( which they would not haue done , but haue takē another course , if they had wherwithal to maintain thē selues ) who haue ended their liues miserably , whereas nature had made them apt , & fit , to learn some worthy vertue ▪ If then riches are the beginning , & the middle of euerie laudable action , as I haue plainly made demonstration : it followeth necessarily , that this nobility which is conioyned with wealth , is y e soueraigne good , & consequently that he who is indued with this nobilitie , is chiefly noble : now Fabricio , as I haue shewed heeretofore , being depriued heereof , his Nobilitie whatsoeuer it is , is lame and faultie , and consequently , is not true nor absolute . But I will not nowe further enlarge my speech on his subiect , least in the end I should seeme troublesome vnto you : in asmuch as it is a matter more then manifest , that riches doe stead a man more in nobilitie , then I am able to speake of . Wherefore in few wordes to end my discourse , and bring it to the last conclusion , it may clearely appeare vnto you , that true and perfit nobilitie doth consist in bloud , and riches : which seeing it is so , as I haue with no lesse strong then true reasons prooued a great while : it followeth that I am true , and prefectly noble , as one in whom , all those partes are sufficiently assembled , and consequently the ring giuen , doth belong vnto me , as to the most noble . Possidonio hauing spoken in this maner , turned himselfe towardes Nennio , proceeding farther in this wise . Thou canst not , Nennio , be of any other opinion : for thou knowest well what is fit to be done , and hast alwaies been pleased to followe the steps of a iust Iudge , albeit there needed not a man of that wisedome to decide this question ( if any doubt ought to be made therof ) being of it selfe most apparant , and out of all doubt : for it had been an easie matter for a man of a slender capacitie , to decide this controuersie , especially hauing vnderstoode so manie reasons as haue been alleadged by me . Amongst the which ( that I may now come to finall conclusion ) I remember yet this one ; I consider her estate from whom this variance did arise , to be noble , as is not vnknowne vnto you : I weigh likewise , that her gift is pretious , rich , and worthy a noble man. Finally , I regard the wordes shee vttered in giuing it , her will being , that in remembrance of her , the most noble of vs two should possesse it . What occasion should mooue her to giue it vnto the most Noble ? Surely no other , but that shee was honourable , and the present likewise fit for a person honourable : I being then descended of a most noble stocke , and hauing all the partes which are required in a perfect noble man , and the same qualities being in her , it remaimaineth , that the rich iewell be giuen vnto me , and not to him who is not worthy of such a present . What contentment should she receiue , being a ladie of great honour , if one that were inferiour to her in calling , should remember her ? Truely none at all ; because her will ( agreeable vnto reason ) was that she shuld be had in remembrance of a man of worth and of honor . Let Fabricio then leaue the pursuite thereof , and not suffer any more wordes to be made of the matter , nor stay ( if he regard his credite ) vntill sentence be giuen : for I doe certainly assure you , that if the gratious , and gentle ladie Virginia , had giuen the ring vnto the most vnworthy , as shee gaue it to the most noble of vs both ( which was neuer her intent ) I would without any contradiction haue yeelded it vnto him , and without anie maner of question with mine owne hands , would haue hanged the same about his necke . Let him not then be obstinate , or opiniatiue , to debate the matter when there is no cause , especiallie when nothing els then detriment , and shame can redound thereof . I will nowe Nennio , make an end of my speech , and leaue the matter wholly in your handes , being certaine that you will determine thereof in such sort , as shal be conformable vnto Iustice , and that you will in no wise oppose your selfe against the will of the noble ladie . Here Possidonio ended his discourse , which he continued all the while the sunne did shew vpon the earth , vntill the euening : Wherefore wee being risen from our places , with a generall consent we referred Fabricio his discourse vntill the next day , both because time woulde not haue sufficed , and it would likewise haue been ouer troublesome vnto vs , by reason of Possidonio his long speech . Thus we cōming forth of y e garden , some of the yong gentlemen and ladies , did highly commend that which Possidonio had related vnto vs. But whether he had spoken wel or no , we being entred into the house , our horses ( according to our dayly custome ) were presently made readie . And we being mounted on them , two of our seruantes amongst y e rest , went along with vs : of the which one of them led two grayhoundes , and two braches in his hand , and the other carried a faulcon : as we were vpon the way , we had not rid past a mile , before we had viewe of a young phesant which did flie somewhat aloft : At the which letting the faulkon flie , extending her winges in the ayre , she wrought so high a pitch , y t you would haue thought she had touched y e skie , and as she made her point to stoupe , her head towardes the earth , and her traine towardes the skie , the phesant tooke a thicke hedge for couert , which was the cause that the faulcon leesing the sight thereof , seemed as it were ashamed thereat . Immediatly one of the young men , let flie another faulcon , which hee carried on his fist , hauing first sprung the phesant from her couert , which as one afraid had not made any great flight , but the faulcon presently seized on it . In the meane time whilest we continued this hawking , the two grayhoundes , which followed vs were let run at two hares , and as we gallopped after , they being spent , yeelded to the mercie of the dogges . Wherefore comming to their succour , as well contented with our prey , we returned home , because supper time drew neere . After that wee had a little taken breath , wee set our selues to supper with great delight , vnder the fresh shadowe : which being ended , the garden being faire , delightfull , and pleasant , there was not one of vs that was minded to depart from thence . Wherfore , some of vs being risen from the table , went to sport our selues in the allies : Others sitting still , plaied at chesse , and at tables , so long as they were permitted by day light . Afterwards , we sate all togither on the thin grasse , which was verie coole , passing the time in pleasant and merrie talke , vntil it seemed a fit houre to go to bed . Wherfore euerie one rising , went to take his ordinarie rest . The second Booke . THe ancient Poets by their fables doe sette down , that Iupiter being at the mariage of Peleus inuited all the Gods and goddesses thither , except Eris the goddesse of discord ; whereat she being greeuously offended , with great industrie she framed y e golden apple , and disdainfullie threw it on the table , where Pallas , Iuno , and Venus were set , round about the which was written , Let this braue and rich apple be giuen to the fairest . From hence ( because each of the goddesses did deeme her selfe , to be both faire and gracious ) did arise a sudden quarrell . Iupiter would not determine which of them should haue this guift , the one being both his sister and his wife , the other two his daughters : but sent them to receiue their iudgement of Paris the sonne of Priam , who to the end he might giue a right sentence , gaue commandement that they should seuerally the one after the other , present themselues naked before him . Pallas shewing hir selfe , promised him that if hee did iudge that she was the fairest ; she would make him the onely famous man for learning in the world : Iune , the most rich : and Venus offered him the enioying of the fairest ladie in the world : in regard of which promise , he gaue hir the golden apple , from whence afterwards did proceed the destruction of Troy. Now let vs consider what fruit may be gathered by the shadowe of fables , especially of this which I euen now recited . For indeed vnder those vailes we may receiue no lesse pleasant then profitable instruction . For somuch as by this fiction , the Poets doe meane this , that in the procreation of man , the celestiall bodies do meet togither , and according to their diuers powers , doe diuersly bring forth sundry effectes in our bodies . Into the which discord doth not enter , least the bodie alreadie created should wholie perish . Howbeit after that man is once framed , and that he hath attained to that age , that hee beginneth nowe to discourse within himselfe , what kinde of life hee were best to follovve as the most noble in account amongst men : whether that which is grounded vppon knowledge , which the Philosophers were wont to cal a contemplatiue kind of life : or otherwise , y t which guideth a man that addicteth himself only to worldly matters , which they tearme actiue : or else that which consisteth wholy in pleasure , which they name delightfull . Then straightvvaie discord entreth : of which three sortes of liues , Soueraine Iupiter will not giue sentence which is the best , least that in approuing the one , he should condemne the other two ; and so the life of man should rather be constrained then free , but hee leaueth them to the iudgement of man , to the end that he may as pleaseth him , tie himselfe to that kind of life that shall best like him ; it may be , shewing vs thereby , the free choice which is granted to vs by him . Of the which notvvithstanding he that is caried away to follow the delightfull kind of life , doth bring vnto him selfe vnspeakeable detriment . If then a man in his young yeares , did enter into consideration of these three maner of liues , and by reason did discourse which of them were the most noble , and did tie himselfe thereto : I doubt not , in that small number of yeares we haue to liue , but we should take a farre better course , and that the life of mortall men should be more pleasing & accepted before God , and more setled and prosperous for men : wheras now we see the greater part , to sinke and drowne themselues , making choice of that which is worst . For if we enter into a generall consideration of all men liuing , truelie we shall finde the number of those to be verie small , who followe the contemplatiue life , as more noble then the other ; but verye manie who with an ardent desire do embrace , either the actiue , or delightful : which tvvo are so much lesse vvorthy then the other as the body is lesse noble then the minde . Of vvhich two partes nature hath framed man , the one being subiect to corruption , the other eternallie dureable . These kind of men see not ( as hauing their invvard eies vailed ) how much more worthy desert it is , to follovve those thinges that are incorruptible , then in vain to labour after the pleasure of the flesh , which is but ( as it were ) of a daies continuance . For vvhich cause , the custome of those that liue in that sort , is greatly to bee blamed , seeing that man doth wholie take delight in those thinges ( as if it were a naturall matter ) which bring him intollerable losse , albeit at the first shevv they seeme pleasant and delightfull to the body . VVhich opinion Possidonio did wholy leane vnto yesterday , for grounding himselfe vppon those tvvo kinds of life , he did sufficiently set forth the svveetnesse that is felte in them . But Fabricio , farre differing from him in iudgement , vvill this daye endeuour himselfe to shevv , that the contrarie therof is the troth , as he who follovving a contemplatiue kind of life , doth hold this as most certaine , that true and perfect nobilitie , doth consist in the vertues of the minde . But to the ende that I seeme not my selfe , to speake that for him , which he determineth to relate , I intend hencefoorth to giue place to his ovvne words . Euery starre was now hidden in the skie , fearing the cleere light which the sunne did more and more spread vpon the earth , vvhen as vve being risen to exercise our bodies , we mounted on horsebacke to take the freshe ayre , and as our discourse led vs from one matter to another , in the end we perceiued that vve had rid further then we determined : wherefore turning back , wee pased softly homevvards ; where the tables were couered for dinner : and after wee had first walked a turn or two in the garden , in the end we placed our selues at the table : and after that wee had satisfied hunger , and sate a while , we marched to that place where Possidonio discoursed the day before , to heare what Fabricio had this day to speake for himselfe , who beeing fresh and lustie hauing called vs al together , we compassed him round about . And when he perceiued we vvere all in a readinesse , and that we were silent , he gaue with great courage , this beginning vnto his speech . Most worthy gentlemen , Silence should ( in my opinion ) hereafter better become me , if I would regarde the words which Possidonio vttered yesterday , both at the beginning and likewise at the end of his long genealogie ; or else it were best for me to seeke some matter more doubtfull then that hee discoursed of . Which I vvould willingly doe , if he had made shew of his ovvne Nobilitie , and not other mens : or spoken of any thing else , then of the greatnesse of his statelie palaces , and of the aboundance of his great wealth . Wherefore to the end I may declare vnto you , how far forth these things make for Nobilitie ; nay rather howe farre they are opposite , and cleane contrarie thereunto : I had not need to be dumbe to day : but I will rather speake that ( without passing the limited bounds ) which shall come first into my thought , and I shall iudge to be true : and , as I thinke , I shal perchance open those thinges vnto you , which it may be , were neuer vttered by any other , concerning true , and perfect Nobilitie . Now our question being strange , and no man ( as I beleeue ) hauing so perfectlie discoursed thereof , I hope you will giue attentiue eare vnto me : which if you doe ( as I doubt not but you will ) strength will settle in my heart , from the which my minde will take incouragement , my memory become constant , my wil more readie , & my voice more apt to speake . The cleernesse of Possidonio his bloud ( worthy gentlemen ) is so great , by that which hee hath in many words long debated , that considering vvhich is y e most noble of vs tvvo , there is no doubt , but he is more worthy than my selfe , and that our controuersie , is rather superfluous , then necessary . But forsomuch as vndoubtedlie I hold the question to be superfluous and out of doubt , as this is , vvhether a resonable creature be more noble then a brute beast ; or a man , more noble & more perfect then God : I will not forbeare to declare vnto you hovv weake his vveapons are , and to shevve you plainly the slightnesse of his words , that you may know by degrees , into vvhat manifest error he is vnaduisedlie fallen . Wherefore it lying vppon me this daie to persuade you , that true and perfect Nobilitie in man consisteth not in bloud ( for it should bee a meere follie to thinke it , much more to speake it ) but in the mind , and consequentlie that this nobilitie which consisteth in me , because it proceedeth from the minde , is true and perfect ; it were first expedient for me to alleadge some of my reasons , and afterwardes in answering his arguments , to rid my selfe cleane from them . But you shal holde me excused if I take a contrary course , for vpon good ground I wil first of all begin with the last , that I may the sooner dispatch the matter , and afterwards by sound argumentes strengthen my side the more . Possidonio yesterday , by the conclusion of his discourse intended , that true and perfect nobilitie is deriued from bloud , and riches , and for the sure grounding of this his conclusion , in arguing he let fly many dartes and arrowes , with which he had thought to haue giuen me my deathes wound : but surely they were all so weake , that with one onely blovv ( if so it vvere that I intended not particularlie to answere to euerie point ) you shall see thē fal presentlie to y e ground : yea some of them will sharpely pierce himselfe , as by his first argument I will manifestly proue vnto you . For in the verie entry of his discourse , hee going about to shew what this Nobilitie is ; he affirmed , that that was true nobilitie , which is left by the auncestors to the successours : and going about to prooue that hee was noble , hee saide , that his predecessours had beene braue and valiant men at Armes , and vvell thought of , of the kinges whom they had serued : but I hearde no word that they themselues were descended of any noble stocke ( whereby if you doe well weigh the matter ) you may perceiue the vncertainty of his speech : forsomuch as he did then affirme , the nobility of his auncestors to consist , not in bloud as hee said , but in actes of magnanimitie , and in vertue , which is easie to bee credited , as that which proceedeth from the vertues of the mind . I say it is a foolish thinge to hold , that nobilitie is left vs by our ancestors , for if that were true , it should necessarilie follovve , either that we should be all noble , or else not one at all ; seeing that in perfect nobilitie , if we ought to haue consideration of bloud , as thou saiest Possidonio , we shall surely finde ( if we doe not flie from the true opinion of Naturalistes , and doe giue credit to that which is approued ) that one man onely vvas the common predecessor of all men which haue bin born , vntill this day , and are hereafter to come into y e vvorld , whose name vvas Adam . I reason then thus ( if so be that thy opinion dooth hold any thing of the troth ) that if Adam was noble , why then vve are all noble , as all they shal bee likevvise who are to come into the world : but if hee were ignoble , and base , we are so likewise , and so by consequent , I am in like estate of nobilitie , or basenesse of birth , as thou art . For euen as the paine of his offence , vvhich was death , extendeth it selfe euen vnto vs , and shall likewise stretch to as many as euer shall be borne hereafter ; euen so in like manner , his nobilitie , or basenesse , ought to extend it selfe to all his posteritie . Doost thou thinke Possidonio that this is a good consequent ? Surely I beleeue so . Wherefore novv thou mayst perceiue , how much nature , whereon yesterday thou diddest ground thy self for the most part , dooth make for this thy nobilitie ; in asmuch as it hath brought vs al into the world after one sort , and there is no distinction at all in nature ; whereof ( if I doe call it to minde before I haue ended my discourse ) I will speake somewhat , but now let vs proceed further . How true is this other reason , that nobilitie is leste as an hereditarie guift ? Surely , when as I do enter into imagination of such foolish toyes , I cannot holde my selfe from laughter . For who is there amongst you that did euer see , that Nobilitie was lefte by will vnto mens children , as though it were framed of some materiall thing , which might by the last testament be left vnto them , as riches are , which is surely a ridiculous thing ? Neither is it of that qualitie as other thinges are , which albeit they be not palpable , yet are they left vnto vs as hereditarie : and surely thou mayest seeke long enough in thy grandfathers willes , before thou shouldest be able to finde any such Nobilitie left thee by any of them . Of what power this thy other argument ( wherin y u intendest , that no better instrument , nor more perfect meanes is giuen vs by nature , by which the nobility of man is long conserued , then children and such as doe descend of them ) is sufficiently manifest of it selfe . For if that did proceed according vnto troth : why diddest thou then set the tvvo Scipios as an example vnto vs ? vvhat is novv become of their posteritie ? where are their successors ? Surely they are already cleane worne out . But forsomuch as their nobilitie did not consist in bloud , but in the vertues of the minde , therefore their glorious worthinesse and lawdable renowme is not dead , nor will euer be extinguished in their posterity . Hovv many are there who are dead without children , vvhose glory and renowne dooth neuerthelesse liue vntill this day ? I cannot reckon vp the great number of them . We ought not then to consider in true Nobilitie , as thou sayst , eyther the predecessors or successors , but only the vertue of man , vvhich causeth him to liue eternally , as we may wel say of the Scipios , & other worthy emperors . Now in proceeding farther , thou wentest about to prooue , that in considering the operations of Nature , that like as the bloud is infused in the birth of children , euen so is nobilitie . Of what waight that is , I leaue thee to consider , as a matter that hath not trueth in it : from whence that which hath been said alreadie , may be againe auerred , to wit , that wee being all descended of Adam our first father , if his bloud was noble , this his nobilitie was by him infused into al his children , and so from hand to hand into all his posteritie . Thou diddest adde hereunto , that we doe not only regard the bloud , but the countenances and lineaments of the parentes in their children . In trueth I cannot imagine to what purpose thou doest vtter so many wordes in vaine . For albeit this be true , that the verie countenance and lineaments of the auncestors remaine with their posteritie : doth that prooue their Nobilitie , and greatnesse of courage ? No truely : For it consisteth in the vertues of the mind , whither the sight of our outward eies cannot pierce , and not in the lineamentes of the bodie , except you will say that one member is more noble then the other , which question at this time we are not to dispute of . Thou wentest about to make vs beleeue likewise , that not onely the members , but euen the maners , and the prowesse of parentes , most commonly is transfused into the children . Surely Possidonio , I affirme that those are noble , who doe follow the good partes , and generositie of their ancestors , as the Scipios did , which may serue as the onely example in the world for vertue and value . But we doe not esteeme those to be noble , who descending of true and perfit noble men , doe leade a loose and wicked life : As afterwards the sonne of Scipio of Afrique did : who for his dissolute liuing , being in y e field called Campus Martius , with his white gowne , al spotted with vices , to demand the Pretorship of the people : he had neuer obtained it , had it not been thorow the fauour of Cicereus in times past , his fathers Chauncellor : Albeit that afterwardes his parents considering , that they might reape dishonour and reproch thereby , they laid a blocke in his way , that hee neuer attained to any such dignitie , and did forcibly take the ring from his finger , wherein his fathers picture was ingrauen , deeming him vnworthy , to be partaker of his fathers glorie , and Nobilite : so that afterwardes he was accompted amongst men ignoble . What honour was the son of Q. Fab. the great , worthie of , from whom Q. Pompeius ( because he liued a ruffian like life ) tooke away the libertie to spend his own goods freely ? Surely none at all . It stoode him in no steede , that his father had beene the generall of the Romaine armies . What Nobilitie did the sonne of Clodius deserue , who giuing himself ouer to the loue of a common woman , leade his life in that sorte , that hee was worthy of all shame , and dishonour ? The auncient Nobilitie of his father , was of no importance vnto him . Now thou mayst see Possidonio , how well thou knowest what power cōsisteth in bloud , touching y e nobilitie of man , which that y u mightest exalt vnto the skies , thou wert not ashamed to compare it , with the Nobilitie of horses , dogges , and other thinges . You may nowe perceiue gentlemen what a wonderfull thing Possidonio his Nobilitie is , seeing that it is equall to the Nobilitie of beastes . Diddest thou thinke Possidonio , therewithall to get the victorie of me ? Are these the strong weapons , against the which no force coulde preuaile , as thou diddest make vs beleeue ? Truely amongst dogges we doe not seeke out the most noble , but the best and most valorous : and so likewise of horses and other things , as ( agreeable to the matter ) thou diddest reckon vp . Then their Nobilitie , doth not consist in seede as thou saiest , but in the goodnesse and worthinesse of them . Fabricio gathered his strength togither , as if he had been carefull howe hee should haue proceeded , when as the Ladie Laura , who had with great attention marked his words , addressing her speech vnto him , said after this maner . I woulde vvillingly vnderstand Fabricio , howe thou wilt aunswere that whiche hee affirmed , that the thing ingendred according vnto Nature , doth not onely receiue of the ingenderer , his essence or being , but his qualities in like sorte , and all that which followeth the essence , concluding thereby that a Noble man cannot ingender anie thing else then an Honourable personage , whiche I did denie . I will not Madame ( quoth Fabricio ) make anie other aunswere thereto , then that which was alleadged by you , to wit , that this qualitie , to become Noble , may eyther be , or not be : and it followeth not of necessitie , if the father be a Noble man , that the sonne be likewise Noble . Yea but ( quoth the Ladie Laura ) hee replied I knowe not what , by which it seemed vnto mee , that that which I had affirmed , could hardly be concluded . Yes right well ( quoth Fabricio ) For albeit he argued , that like as white , or blacke is transfused into the children , euen so is Nobilitie . I saie that his similitude is not worth a rushe : In asmuch as blacknesse , or whitenesse , are demonstratiue dispositions of the body ; but Nobilitie is a hidden propertie of the minde , in regard y t it proceedeth of vertue : So that a painter may by arte easily alter either the whitenesse or blacknesse of man : but he can neuer paint forth with his pensill , the nobilitie of the minde , as being a thing not subiect vnto the sight of bodily eyes . Like as it happeneth with fire , the flames whereof may well be drawne , but the heate can not in any wise be painted . Wherefore I say , it is no good conclusiō , that what so giueth the essence , or being , giueth likewise that which followeth the essence , which holdeth true concerning the disposition of the bodie , but not of the qualities of the minde . Do we not see commonly diuers parentes , who for the most part doe ingender children , of the which some one prooueth apt to learne vertue , and to be instructed in good maners , and another prone to followe all maner of vice ? you see then Madame , what diuersities doe proceede of these resemblances , which were well vnderstoode by you maister Iohn Francisco . Wherefore this tale that you inserted in the middest of Possidonio his discourse , ought to breede no woonder : For albeit it happen in some women , as you gaue vs yesterday to vnderstand , you may find the clean contrary in others . And whereas the birth of Romulus , and Remus cannot be hidden : I say M. Dominico , that their value , and vertue did manifest their Nobilitie , and not the temper of their bodies . You may nowe Madame discouer his follies , which thou thy selfe Possidonio couldest not discerne , when as thou wentest about to perswade vs , that man doth receiue from the ingenderer the qualities of the minde . But what great follie is this ? wherefore diddest thou not as well affirme , that a holy personage , or a man well seene in naturall causes , or experienced in Diuinitie , could not ingender any other , then a sainct , a good Naturaliste , or a diuine ; all which are qualities consisting in the minde ? Which if it shoulde come to passe , the worlde should be well replenished with holinesse , with wisedome , with experience , and thou shouldest then be one of that number . But as that cannot happen , so likewise I say , that it cannot follow , that one noble man , doth engender a noble childe , nobilitie being a qualitie of the minde , euen as wisedom , experience , and other vertues of like sorte are . And nowe how canst thou haue the heart to expect the victorie , concerning the controuersie in question , seeing I haue shewed by degrees , thy manifest errours ? But let vs yet proceede to thy other reasons , against which I need not take any stronger weapons , they being as weake as the other I haue ouerthrowne . Albeit that this seemeth to carrie some force with it , which we see is commonly vsed in all partes of the world , that such as are borne of noble parents , are so held : if thou haddest spoken otherwise , and said in steede of this , they are Noble men , they are in deede called so , it had not been amisse . For it is true , and it cannot any waies bee denied , that whosoeuer is descended of Noble bloud , wee call him a Noble man ; but generallie I denie this to containe a trueth . Tell me I pray thee , if he that is borne of a christian , be straightwaies a christian ? Surely no. But euen as it is not onely necessary for him that intendeth to be a right and true Christian , that by birth hee doe descend of christian parentes , but likewise that hee receiue baptisme , and keep the Commandements of Christ : So it is not sufficient for a noble man , to come of Noble bloud , as a thing that maketh little or nothing in matter of Nobilitie : but that he obserue that which is requisite for the attaining of perfit Nobilitie , to wit , that hee become Noble thorough the vertues of the minde . Besides that , I might adde hereunto , that this thy consideration is farre from the purpose , in asmuch as the prize was not giuen to him that shoulde onelie beare the name , but to him that should in effect be the most noble of vs two . Albeit that thou mightest reply hereunto Possidonio , as thou hast alreadie affirmed , that if they that descend of Noble men were not noble , then they should not enioy the same priuiledges that Noble men doe . Wherevnto I woulde aunswere , that the bad custome of men , therein is much to be blamed : Forasmuch as they doe not imploy their discourse to that , whereby the trueth may be made manifest , but onelie giuing credite to the bare name , they doe argue in such maner : So that if we turne our back to the trueth , and giue our minds to follow the lying opinion of the rude vulgar sorte , which for the most part , doe fall into great errors , thy saying then shall be true . Thou seest now Possidonio , of what force thy argumentes are . But I will passe ouer to the rest , and come vnto that , by which thou diddest seeke to prooue , that if the infamie of a man , be sufficient to blemish his whole stocke , that the glorie and worthinesse therof ought by great reason , extend it selfe to all his posteritie : whereupon thou diddest consequently inferre that thy auncestors being noble , thou must needes be so . Although that this reason seeme apparent ; yet in answering therunto , I might say ( and therewithall if I list not perticularly to passe thorow the rest of the reasons , resist whatsoeuer thou hast alleadged ) that we do not now debate of the Nobilitie of our ancestors , but we are to prooue which of vs two is the most noble , and so by consequent shew what our nobilitie is , & not set forth the honor of other men . And herein I will yeeld vnto thee , that if we were both equall in Nobilitie of the minde , that perhaps in regard of the antiquitie of thy predecessors , y u mightest be more noble then my selfe . But iudge nowe what these high praises , and commendations of thy predecessors doe auaile thee , and to what great purpose they were yesterday alleaged by thee ? For thou diddest with no lesse readinesse , dexteritie , and good grace recount them , then they who from the top of some high towre doe with a loud voice tell the wonderful miracles of auncient holy fathers , or from some scaffold in the market place recite out of the old Romanes , the cruell warres of the Giantes , or the furious loue of some Orlando . But to let that passe , how well this thy glorious speech did become thee , I will proceed to this argument , where thou diddest say , that like as the honour of the sonne , did extend to the father , much more did the fathers glorie stretch vnto his children . It is true Possidonio , yet it followeth not , that if the sonne by his owne vertues be made noble , that the father is anie way partaker thereof , or made noble thereby : For if the sonne were verie expert in feates of armes , or skilfull in matter of learning , surely hee should want his senses that woulde affirme , that the father did participate eyther in the experience of the arte Militarie , or in Science with his Sonne , they both beeing giftes of the minde , wherein as I haue often times sayde , true and perfit Nobilitie consisteth : from the whiche , it can verie hardlie bee transferred from one bodie to an other , euen as thou diddest vainly perswade thy selfe . These are thy sophisticate reasons Possidonio , which being resisted by the trueth , thou maiest perceiue what force they are of . Fabricio hauing hitherunto continued his speech , he pawsed a while , and afterwardes proceeded in this maner . Worthy Gent. M. Peter Anthonie knowing as well as my selfe the slendernesse of Possidonio his argumentes , which he heaped the one on the others head , he could not withhold from taking part with him , and amongst other things to alleadge this reason in his behalfe : that forasmuch as amongst the lawes of the Romains , there was one , which commanded y t the image of euery worthy knight , shoulde be made and set in some publicke place , which in festing maner , they did with great iolitie visite . We may argue , and say , that if the Romaines did owe such honour vnto images , much more was due vnto the liuing children , because they were but an imitation of nature , whereas nature her selfe was apparent in the children . Now if this your reason ( M. Peter Anthonie ) had as much force in it , as it sheweth ; I doubt not but it would appale me , and giue so great courage vnto Possidonio , that you might easilie persuade him , he were wel worthy to haue one of these images erected for him . And although that I shoulde frame no other answere therunto , then I did to the last , yet shuld I be still vpon a sure ground . Neuerthelesse , I wil vse such reasons in disproofe therof , as I did to y e former . For if thou saiest that their children whose images are erected to y e common view of al men , do participat with their fathers vertues ; then I do affirm that thy allegation is true : but if therein they differ , then this their nobilitie , and reputation is not transferred to them . So likewise if the children of those who were represented by those images , had beene worthy of such honour , surely the Romanes , who wanted no good counsell , would willinglie haue granted it : it followeth then that the honour was not done to the image , whether it were of Marble , or mettall , but to the vvorthy memorie of his vertues , whose lineaments the image did liuely set forth , which could not be wel executed in y e person of their child , being made in regard of their ovvne proper vertue , and not in respect of any thing belōging to another . Besides that , there are and haue , beene diuers persons , who being descended of valorous and vvorthie parentes , haue vvith shame darkened their brightnesse , as we haue already affirmed . And had it bin reasonable that the wise Romans , should haue honoured those in such a manner , in regard of their auncestors ? Surely no. And what wouldest thou say Possidonio , if these men should lauishlie recken vp the worthy deeds of their predecessors , or if they should publikely shevv their images ? wouldst thou indeed iudge them to bee noblemen ? God forbid , nay so much more base ought they to be deemed , that they hauing before their eyes the troden pathes , which doe manifestly shewe them the waie to become noble , they take a cleane contrarie course . What doth then the worthinesse of bloud preuaile , when as it is obscured by dishonest conditions ? And vvhat annoyance dooth the basenesse of bloud bring , when it is honoured by noble vertues ? Surely , none at all . For in perfect nobilitie , the obscurenesse , or worthinesse of bloud is not to be considered . But let vs proceed further : thou diddest enter into the gouernment of cities , and the administration of diuine offices , saying that they were noble : if I knew that this thy argument made any thing to the purpose , I would willinglie answer it , as I haue doone the rest ; but I will say nothing herein , but that thou thy selfe vnderstandest not , what thou diddest say : for let vs yeeld it to be true ; what doth followe thereof ? Art thou I pray thee any of those gouernours ? Thou seest Possidonio , how easelie thy strong reasons are resisted . And art thou ignorant , that many men oftentimes doe come to the degree of a Cardinall , or of a bishop , who haue no great store of gold in their cofers ? In former age there vvas no regard had , neither of bloud , as thou wouldest haue it , nor of gold or siluer , but vnto a man adorned with vertue , whose life deserued praise . As it fell out on a time in the Consistorie of Cardinals , whoe beeing assembled in the Conclaue , to chuse a newe Pope in his roome that was dead , tvvo were in election to be preferred to that dignitie , the one of them being descended of royall bloud , the other of a meane familie . Many of the Cardinals , in regarde of the noble descent of the one , would aduance him vnto the popedome : and many in respect of the deserts and holie life of the other , desired to place him in that high estate , the one company of Cardinals opposing themselues against the other . The latter alleadging , that they sought to establish and create the successour of Peter , a Preacher , the son of a Smith , not the sonne of Cesar Augustus . In the end , they hauing no respect to the worthines of bloud , but to the perfection of both their liues , the last for his Soueraigne vertues ( they contemning the great nobilitie of the other ) attained to the popedome . Moyses did the like , who might haue left his children the principalitie and dignitie , but he made choice of Iosua , vvho was not of his bloud , to denote and signifie thereby , that it is not bloud , but the life of man that is to be considered therein . Of which opinion amongst others , was the Emperour Elius , who would not permit , that his sonne should bee chosen Emperour after him : saying that the Empire did demaunde a manne worthie thereof , and not bloud . Vertue then , and not nobilitie of bloud , maketh a man of desert . How manie Popes haue there beene , who haue not beene of any noble stocke , but issued of verie poore parentes : as Felix the thirde , whose father was a priest of a base linage : Gelasius , Agapites , Theodorus , Siluerius , and many others attained vnto the Popedome , albeit they were descended of a base stocke . Yet was not their bloud so obscure , but their vertue of as great woorth , which made them merite so high a dignitie . And there hath not beene onelie Popes borne of verie meane parentes , but likewise kinges and Emperors , and other valiant captaines . Tullius Hostilius was borne of lovve degree , who in his young yeares was a shepheard , and was afterwards aduaunced to the gouernement of the Romaine Empire , and vvas the third king of the Romaines . Tarquinius Priscus was the sonne of Demaratus , a marchant banished out of Corinth his natiue Countrie , & notwithstanding he became the fift king of the Romans . Seruius Tullius , who was borne in most base estate of seruitude , was the sixt king of the Romaines . Dioclesian Dalmat . borne in Salone , of a poore stocke , became Emperor of Rome . Likwise Maximinus the emperour , borne in Thracia , did descend of very meane parents . Martius Rutilius was by bloud a Plebeian ( that is one of the common people ) and yet created Consull fiue times , he triumphed ouer the Falisqui . Cornelius Cossus was also by birth a Plebeian , hee manfullie killed Laertes Tolomeus duke of the Fidenati , whose riches and spoiles he consecrated to Iupiter Feretrian at Rome , obtaining therein the second place , he triūphed also ouer many nations . Gneius Flauius , his father was a bondman , and yet he was created Pretor at Rome . Terentius Varro , and M. Perpennus Consuls , Lucius Volumnus , and Mamercus Dictators . Q. Publius Philon , Pretor , all these did spring of meane parentes . But their apparant vertue , and singular value vvas so great , that thereby they gaue great ayde vnto the Romaine common wealth . The Soueraigne Orator Demosthenes amongst the Grecians , was borne of one by occupation a Cutler , scarce knowne amongst men : And Euripides that most famous Poet , his mother was an hearbe wife . Socrates who was by the iudgement of Apollo , the wisest man in the vvorld , drevv his beginning from a Mason . Xenophon was borne in Archeas , a village by Athens , of one Grillus of base estate . But the obscurenesse of their bloud , and of infinite others which I might rehearse vnto you , haue lightened the world , and exalted their name euen to the skies . Of the vvhich some of them by force of Armes , others by vertue of the mind , are become famous and honourable . You may by this well discerne , if a Plebeian , or one borne of base estate , may arise to great nobilitie and renovvne , and iudge , whether the nobilitie of bloud , or the vertue of the mind be required in those that beare publike offices . Here maister Iohn Francisco , not permitting Fabricio to passe any further , said vnto him after this maner . I doe not thinke Fabricio , that that which thou hast answered vnto Possidonio his two former arguments , doth wholie confute them ; seeing that hee did not ground himselfe in such extremitie , as it seemeth thou takest it : for if the vertues of children didde equall their fathers perfections , they should likewise deserue to haue images erected for them , not if they were altogither vnequall and contrarie vnto them , which neither he , nor I , did make any doubt of , as thou didst affirme of the sons of Q. Fabius , and of Claudius , which was no part of our meaning . Neither shouldest thou consider these tvvo so great extreamities , but take the meane betweene them , and then perhaps we may vnderstand the troth of that which he said , to wit , that they y t do descend of noble men , ought to be had in great estimation , & consequently be partakers of the nobilitie of their parents : whereby he meant ( and that not indirectly ) to inferre , that for the remembrance of their auncestors , the gouernment of Cities and diuine offices , were deseruedlie bestowed vpon them . And although that a bishop or any other , be well stored with gold , doe not wee see them oftentimes likewise descēded of a noble house ? Maister Iohn Frācisco paused here , when as Fabricio answered immediatly . I denie not , but that in such manner of men of the middle sort , there is some part of nobilitie or reputation , which proceedeth from their auncestors , but I intending to proue , what true and perfect nobilitie vvas , that vvhich I affirmed vnto you may bee well concluded : for these of the middle sort thou talkest of , are not true and perfect noble men , but such as doe represent the nobilitie of others : and what difference there is betweene that which is troth , and that which doth onlie represent it , there is none of you but may easilie vnderstand . As touching the other point wherin thou saist , that y e most part of bishops & cardinals , are of noble descent : You know right welmaister Iohn Francisco , that the sonne of God made no scruple , to chuse S. Peter who was come but of meane parentage , and himselfe a simple fisher : Neither did he of his infinite goodnesse disdain to receiue into the apostleship men of base estate , as most part of the apostles were , who were worthy of heauenly grace , as a reward of their holie life , and constant faith . To how many miserable men , to how many poore soules , to how many beggers , hath the sonne of God vouchsafed to giue the kingdom of heauen ? Trulie honour of bloud , is not considered therein , but Nobilitie of maners , and purenesse of faith : for vvith God we are all equal , and there is no difference of persons before him , but in asmuch as one excelleth another in goodnesse , and aswell the noble man as the begger shal be iudged , whether he be righteous or a sinner . It is then the life of man , adorned with good conditions , and with loyall faith , which doth conioin vs with God ; and a depraued life which doth separate vs from him , and not the nobilitie of bloud , or the worthines of our progenitors . Wherefore if you rest satisfied herewith , I will with your good leaue returne to my former enterprise . You haue thorowly satisfied me ( quoth maister Iohn Francisco ) and therefore you may hold on your course , and take what leisure you list . Fabricio , gaue this further entrance into his discourse , If my memorie serue me well Possidonio , vnto thy former reasons thou diddest adde , that with popes , emperors and kinges , he which is of noble bloud taketh the chiefe place , and is honoured more then others . Suppose the case that this were true , as it is not , yet art not thou any of them . But where dost thou finde , that he which is borne of noble bloud , hath such preheminēce ? Truely there is no such matter . Surely the Church of Christ , should shine maruellously , if it were onelie lightened with the beams of noble men , & empires shuld be well maintained , and kingdomes become better , if they were gouerned by their counsell . Thou art deceiued Possidonio , for I say not , if men of noble bloud , but such as are excellent in vertue , & experienced in knowledge , did depart and leaue the seruice of princes , there would be no gouernment at all . Who do rule , who do manage , who doe maintain the world , but wise men , and such as are indued with wisdome , whether they be noble by bloud , or of meane birth ? These haue y e chiefest places , these men are honoured , and not men nobly borne , void of vertue , and depriued of knowledge . Now doe I returne to you maister Dominico , who to strengthen Possidonio his weake side with a subtil maner of argumēt , you reasoned , that if this nobility of bloud , was so highly esteemed of the son of God , man incarnate here on earth , in asmuch as he was borne of the virgin Mary , who descended of the royall stocke of K. Dauid , how much more ought it to be affected , & reuerenced of vs : I am certain that you haue no such beleefe , as hee which knovveth the troth , as well as the best of vs ; but did you not alledge that which came into your minde in fauour of Possidonio , rather to anger the lady Camilla , who did still threaten you , that you might be put to silence , then in any intention you had to gainesay me ? I verilie beleeue it . And in troth likewise , if I were onely to satisfie you , I vvould passe it ouer with silence , as a matter superfluous : but because I intend to confirme Possidonio his beleefe , and these Ladies , I say that the Lord of heauen , did not choose the virgine Mary to be his mother , only bicause shee was borne of the royall stocke of King Dauid , but in regard of the Soueraigne excellencie of hir vertues , of her humilitie , and patience . For what Lady was there euer so graced of God , as to be saluted by the spirit of an Angell , and called sul of grace , blessed , and exalted aboue all other women , except the most glorious virgine Mary ? which she may thanke her humilitie and purenesse of heart for , and not her nobilitie onely . You may see then , that the nobility of Mary was not considered of God , but her humilitie and sinceritie of spirit . You did afterwards Maister Dominico following on your matter , tel vs the manifest folly of Herode Ascalonita , wherunto I neede not answere any thing else , but that some madnes entred into his minde , in such sorte to execute his foolish fantasie . What shal I say vnto you concerning the temeritie of Equitius , and the presumption of others , alledaged by you , who being descended of base bloud , did seeke to ennoble themselues in the worthy families of other men ? Surely if you consider their end , you shall finde , that they receiued condigne punishment for their foolish conceit , some of them being banished , others dying in prison , others hanged , as a recompence of their vnaduised enterprise . Wherfore we ought not to sette their follies before vs as examples to followe . Besides , they sought not how to ennoble themselues , as you affirme , but to succeed in the kingdome & patrimonie of those , whose successours coulourably they pretended themselues to be . But why did you not bring him for an example , who was more familiar with god then any other mortal man , who did not vaunt himselfe , that he was descended of the bloud royal , but did deny that he was born of Pharao his daughter ; desiring rather to be persecuted , as one of the people of God , then to take vpon him the glory of the royall bloud , and to possesse the riches of Egypt ? And Gordius the father of Midas , who is reported to be the richest king that euer was , who from the estate of a husbandman , became king of Phrigia , & between the limites of the lesser , and the greater Asia , built a Citie called Gordium , where he consecrated a temple to Iupiter , in the which not being ashamed of his obscure birth , neither forgetting his base calling , he offered the plough sharde , which manie times hee had tilled the ground withall , and the harneis hee was woont to couple his oxen togither to the yoke , to the end that in all ages it might be manifest to all men , what vocation he had been of : Such examples ought in deed to be recommended vnto vs , & not those recited by you . How weake then ( worthy Gent. ) the reasons are , that Possidonio yesterday with many wordes set forth , you may alreadie partly iudge : as I will better approoue vnto you by the sequele of my discourse . Forasmuch as speaking of Nobilitie , he was forced to descend vnto vertue , whence true and perfit Nobilitie is deriued , whereof he discoursed I know not what , but hee made such large flightes a farre off , as the first Faulcon did yesternight about the phesant : the reason was , because he perceiued that the cleere light therof did ouermuch bleare his eies . Wherefore , like as the warrier , who finding himselfe ouermatched with weapons , which he cannot weild , leaueth them to take others , which he may manage with greater facilitie : Euen so fell it out yesterday with Possidonio : For hauing armed himselfe with vertue , and knowing not how to vse it , he had his sodaine recourse vnto riches , hee skirmished so liuely with them , that he hath not onely thereby made himselfe more noble then I am , but then any other man likewise . But now I being come to prooue what force those weapons haue , I doubt not but I shall make it manifest , that they are farre more weake , and of lesse defence then the other . He grounded himselfe vpon two propositions , the one was , that a learned and vertuous man , hath no nobilitie in him ( as if that learning serued to no purpose , to make a man noble ) if he want such riches as are required to be in a gent. because they are no lesse necessarie in nobilitie then bloud is . The other was , that declaring what goodes were , hee forced himselfe to prooue that they were riches . Nowe before I enter into the first proposition , I will make manifest vnto you , what trueth is in the last , to the end you afterwardes may with more ease know the veritie of the other . Thou wouldest then Possidonio , haue riches to be goods , thou deceiuest thy selfe greatly : for if they were goodes , they would cause the man that possesseth them to become better , and more perfit then he is ; for such is the propertie of that which is good : but riches doe not effect this : For if these certaine goodes , did make a man more perfect , wee must of necessitie conclude , that man should be lesse perfect , then the thing by which he is made more perfit , which if thou grauntest for true , it shoulde followe , that gold , siluer , pretious stones , trees , and other liuing creatures depriued of reason ( for these thinges , and such like are riches ) should be more perfect , and more Noble then man , which should be too great a follie to think , much more to vtter . We will then conclude , that riches are no goodes . Moreouer , it is a matter verie euident , that of a good thing can nothing followe but that which is good : but of these thy riches , what good may euer insue ? Nay rather all venemous branches doe spring from that root : They are not then good , but the cause of all euill . Which may euidently be seene by the vnbrideled desire Marcus Crassus did beare vnto riches , which was the cause that he robbed the temple of Ierusalem , and not only of his owne death , but of Marcus his son , and y e ruine of the Romaine armei . For he being chosen Consul by the Romaines against the Parthians , and conducting the army , he came into the Prouince of Iudea , and being at Ierusalem , hee tooke from the holie temple of Salomon 8000. talentes of gold , and tooke away a golden beame , which amounted to the waight of 300. pound , to the which the pretious vailes of the temple shining with a wonderfull beautie , and incredible arte , were hanged : and to be short , he tooke al the ornamentes which were of any value . Hee passing with this pray into Parthia , beeing more bent to pillage , & to heape vp gold ▪ then to ouercome the enemies , in the end was driuen to that necessitie , that with small adoe , he was the cause of his sons death , and the discomfiture of the armie : the Romaines being then sore beaten , and villanously murthered by that people , his owne head , & his right hand , was cut off , & presented to Herod king of the Parthians , who in asmuch as in his life time he had so much bin affected to the loue of gold , to the end that after his death hee might glut himselfe therwith , Herod caused gold to be melted , & poured into his mouth . Likewise the riches of Ptolomy king of Cypres , were cause of his death : For hee vnderstanding that the Romaines were determined to bring his kingdom into the forme of a Prouince , & take possession of his great treasor , he thought to drown thē in the sea , rather then they shuld come into the hands of his enemies : but his mind being buried in his treasor , y e miserable wretch could not indure to see them lost in y t sort , but rather made choise ( after that Cato Portius was to that end sent into Cypres by the Senate ) to take away his own life by poyson , then to drown his wealth in the sea : So that it cannot be denied but that riches are the cause of all euill : For besides the mischiefe I haue alreadie recited that commeth by the greedie desire of them : we see ( which my tongue hath horror to tell ) that the father is the murtherer of his sonne , the brother of the brother , and one friend of another . I wil not to this purpose alleadge thee any examples , either out of auncient , or moderne histories , being a thing that thou mayst now a dayes heare out of the mouth of euery man , and a matter so manifest , that euery where we haue tidinges thereof . Men doe on all sides set vpon eche other , and are in warre continually for this pelfe . We see in euerie place , abhominable treasons , and conspiracies , to attaine vnto riches . This is not all that may be said thereof , but much more : for the rich man is alwaies in feare , that being pursued by some enuious person , he be not at sometime , or other murthered . If he eate , he feareth poison : if he walke abroad , terror attendeth on him : he quaketh at the name of warre : he standeth in dread of water , of aire , of fire : and to conclude , he is neuer without feare . And this happeneth , because he knoweth , that riches vanish away as lightly as the smoke before the winde , what shall I say more ? The rich man is alwaies a thirst , with an vnquenchable drought , as hee that is tormented with a quotidian ague . For if he be wealthy , he coueteth still to possesse more : so y t the whole world cannot suffice to glut his greedie desire . Who is then so vnaduised to terme such a one rich , who ( miserable man ) is no otherwise tormented then Tantalus , who sitting in the middest of fresh and cleere running streames , seeth most pleasant and delightfull fruite rounde about him , and his heart burning to eate and drinke of them , and yet hee cannot . God forbid that such a one should be called rich , but rather poore and needie aboue all other men . Surely if riches were so necessarie , the wise Athenians woulde neuer haue decreed , and ordained for a law , that whosoeuer became rich within their Citie , shoulde for ten yeares space be banished Athens , esteeming it to be farre more profitable to voide the Citie of such persons , then to let them remaine there . The Athenians knew well what infections , riches doe bring with them : which was the cause that as some plague , they banished them out of Athens . Now thou seest Possidonio , what good these thy goodes doe bring . Fabricio , proceeded in like maner to the handling of his other argumentes ; when as M. Peter Anthony , as it were taking the word out of his mouth , saide thus vnto him . Truely Fabricio , that which thou hast spoken of riches , hath brought me into a great doubt : For hearing what thou hast discoursed therof , on the one side it seemeth vnto me to be true : and yet on the other side , I am perswaded it is not wholly so . Forasmuch as euerie day , and in all places , the most part of mortall men do , some after one maner , some after another , giue themselues to the getting of gold and siluer : yea not onelie the base and vulgar sort , but likewise men of great credite , and reputation , old and yong men , and those that are most wise in worldly matters . Others carelesse of their owne life , doe indeuour to enrich themselues , vpon the sencelesse waters of the sea , and doe daily scoure the coasts of the East countries , the shores of the west parts , and from North to South , and South to North , and leaue no place vntouched , where they may inrich themselues : Others to that purpose doe follow bloudy battels ; and some men doe manfully labour both night and day to get wealth . These men in woodes , & mountaines , those in vallies and plaines : Others seek to come by riches by dangerous robberies : Others by diuelish vsurie . Wherefore if as thou sayst , riches were cause of so great euill , surely no man that loueth his welfare , would against his will purchase his owne bane , with so many cares , and intollerable disquiet . So that I seeing so strong reasons on both sides , it is hard for mee , nay a thing impossible to bolte out the trueth . It is an easie matter to resolue this thy doubt , ( aunswered Fabricio , ) For auncient authours haue left vs in writing , that riches ( whosoeuer first had the sight thereof ) is a thing most deformed , wearing on the naturall visage thereof , a masque of most fine gold , denoting thereby , that it is faire in apparence , but foule within : wherefore they who trauell so many Countries , and take such paines to seeke it , are enamoured with the outward shewe , which blindeth the eyes of the vnderstanding : so that they can hardly discerne how hurtfull the inward deformitie thereof is . Which maketh man who is forgetfull of himselfe , to addict his minde thereto . Which Paulus Emilius perceiuing , when he ouercame Perseus king of Macedonia , and gloriously triumphed ouer him ; hee did not onely forbeare to touche the infinite treasure of the king , but likewise to see it , although he might haue been possessor of a wonderfull bootie . Pompey the great hauing taken by force the temple of Ierusalem , whereof I lately made mention , found there an inestimable treasure , and did not onely abstaine from taking the spoile thereof , as Marcus Crassus did afterwardes , but also from touching it , as hee which knew well what hurt riches did bring . And hee who before-hand knoweth the secrets of man , as hee who made them , that by the apparent beauty of riches , man would easily contemne true and eternall treasure , hath often put vs in minde , in his infallible doctrine , that here on earth man shoulde not heape vp riches , as a corruptible thing , and subiect to a thousand hazardes . M. Peter Anthonie knew not well what to reply to his answere , which pleased him aboue measure , shewing that he was thoroughly satisfied therewith . Wherfore Fabricio , following on his discourse proceeded in this maner . Gentlemen ; besides that riches are goodes , Possidonio would haue them conioyned to Nobilitie by such necessitie , that if anie noble man whatsoeuer were depriued thereof , hee should no more be accompted noble amongst men . His meaning is then , that so long as a noble man enioyeth wealth , he shall be honourable , and afterwards be of base accompt : O foolish opinion and deceitful beliefe ! Doest not thou consider Possidonio , that this thy Nobilitie is light as the winde , and dependeth of Fortune , euen as hee who being on the maine sea , hath lost both sterne , and saile togither at a clappe ? Forasmuchas if those small nūber of souldiers which are now left to guard the towne , did spoile thy treasure : surely thou shouldest in one instant , leese both thy wealth , and thy nobility . And as often as this were true , that riches did make a man noble : it should necessarily follow , that an vsurer or a theefe beeing borne a gentleman , shoulde become more Noble then he was before , by meanes of his substance , which he should gaine vnlawfully , which howe farre it disagreeth from the trueth , I need not further to manifest vnto you . This is the great glorie which riches bringeth to Nobilitie ; of the which Possidonio , thou wouldest that liberalitie should proceede , wherein thou art as much deceiued , as in that which hath alreadie been spoken of , because true liberalitie springeth not from riches , but from the loue of the minde . Which Philip of Macedonia ( that I may not further inlarge my discourse , to perswade you therein ) did manifestly prooue , when hee seeing Alexander his sonne ouerlauishe to certaine Princes of his kingdome , whose loue hee sought to winne vnto him by liberall giftes , in aduising him like a father , he wrote vnto him , that hee ought not to hope for anie faithfulnesse in those friendes , who are purchased by presentes , which when we want to send , then doe they faile vs likewise : but that hee ought to gratifie them with loue , and sinceritie of heart , wherein true liberalitie consisteth . This king was well acquainted , of what efficacie liberalitie which proceedeth from riches , was . Thou seest then Possidonio , that the Nobilitie which yesterday thou diddest affirme to bee true and perfite , is nowe fraile , vaine , and none at all . I say then , that it is neither the stately pallaces , nor pleasant gardens , nor fertill fields , nor well fashioned apparell , nor aboundance of golde or siluer , as thinges which haue no stabilitie in them , which doe make a man Noble , but vertue whiche shineth in the minde . There doth the perfection of nobility remaine : there the bright glorie of man doth giue light . Nay let warres spring amongst mightie Potentates , let floudes of waters fall from heauen ; let the riuers and the Sea both togither swell ; let the fire bee kindled in these riches which thou callest goods : for all this , this kind of Nobilitie will neuer shrink , nor become lesse , because it is incorruptible ; which the philosopher , no lesse replenished with nobilitie , then wisdome , may easilie perswade thee ; I meane Bias , who seeing Priene his country vtterly brought to ruine , and many bearing away their substance from thence , and hee being asked why he did not carrie part of his goods with him , aunswered ; I alwaies carie all my riches with me : and trulie he did charge his mind , not his shoulders with them as others doe , and his wealth was not discerned with the eies of the body , but with the eies of his mind . But nowe that I haue sufficiently answered the reasons which thou diddest alleadge in the behalfe of riches : for by this which I haue said , thou mayst imagine how they make for thee ; now I say it shall not be from the purpose , if I return to the other proposition , which I left vnspoken of ; to wit , that in a learned and vertuous man , there can bee no nobilitie , if hee want riches which are required in a gentleman ; bicause that learning is of it selfe vaine to ennoble any man. What Possidonio , dost thou affirme that learning is a vain thing in nobilitie , and that science and knowledge are vaine ? Dooest thou holde that that is vaine which doth infuse the true light into nobilitie ? O wonderfull vndiscreetnesse , ful of meere follie ! O most erroneous opinion worthy of all blame ! But why doe I so much maruell , if a blind man cannot discerne the right waie ? Well , thou shalt before we depart from hence wel perceiue , what force learning and knowledge are of , in nobilitie . And truely if they had not beene worthy great estimation , Philip the Macedonian king , whose force and power was knowne to all Greece , woulde not so soone as he had a sonne borne , haue written to Aristotle the onely learned and wise philosopher , in that sort he did . Knowe thou Aristotle , that I haue a sonne born vnto me , for the which I render immortal thanks vnto the Gods , not so much for that he is borne , as because his birth hath happened in the daies of thy life , for asmuch as I hope that being instructed , and trained vppe by thee , hee will proue a worthy successour of vs and our kingdome . Weigh with thy selfe how the mind of a good prince vvas full of ioy , because his sonne was borne in his time , whose knovvledge and learning , did not onely with the sound thereof fill all the worlde , but euen pierce the cloudes . He being a good father did desire to adorn his son with learning and science , as treasures of far more inestimable value , then his nobilitie ; his kingdome and riches were , the greatnesse and the Nobilitie of his Sonne , when as Alexander the Great was scarcely borne vnto him . And Alexander himselfe hauing vnderstood , that Aristotle his maister had published his vvorks abroad , especiallie those which did intreat of naturall causes , he was much offended therewith , and saide ; Wherin shall we excel other men , if those Sciences wherof we make profession , are common to euery man ? Surely I had rather passe other men in learning , & knowledge , then in riches , and in Lordly dominion . O vvordes most worthy of so great a Prince , who preferred knowledge before all things in the world . This was hee , vvho going from Corinth to visit the Philosopher Diogenes in his tubbe , enuyed his glorie , saying vnto him , that if he had not beene Alexander , he vvould haue desired to haue beene Diogenes : and that not bicause of the worthinesse of his Nobilitie , but in regard of his great learning and wisedome ; vvhich would neuer haue happened that Alexander shoulde haue desired , being not that which he was , but to haue beene Diogenes . You may novv see what power learning is of Possidonio ; what force the Sciences haue : for if Alexander the great , the ruler of all the East part of the world , did so much loue and affect them , as I haue giuen you to vnderstand , it is not to be beleeued that they are vaine in the ennobling of man. And Paulus Emilius hauing ouercome Perseus , king of Macedonia , as I lately tolde you , took only out of all his treasure , two bookes , to instruct his children withal : thereby likewise you may perceiue , how farre greater the estimation of learning then of riches is , and whether they bring not greater glory to a noble man then it dooth . Whereby thou mayest vnderstand , that in arguing vainely yesterdaie thou diddest alleadge such things as were not worthie the recitall . But I will not ( gentlemen ) particularly call to minde euery seueral argument , which hee heaped togither . For he might alledge many more , which notwithstanding by the answeres I haue already made , woulde bee soone ouerthrown , as reasons nothing at al sauoring of troth . Tel me Possidonio , doost thou indeed iudge thy weapons to be of as great force as thou didst beleeue ? Alas , how foolish is this thy opinion , and thy self more sottish if thou yet remaine therein . VVel , I hope by this resistance that I haue made , y t I haue hitherunto satisfied you in euery point . Yea but ( qd the lady Laura ) with a feminine readines : where haue you forgot that which he saide , when as he granted ( if my memory serue me wel ) that thou wert likewise a man of honor , but in regard that his nobilitie is more ancient than thine , he is to be iudged to be y e most noble . Thou must not leaue that behind thee . thee ; for methought hee spake very aptly to the purpose , concerning that matter . You doe wel Madame , to put mee in minde of that ( quoth Fabricio ) which had cleane slipt out of my remembrance . And I maruell not though his speech did please you , bicause women cannot so vvel discouer the falshood of arguments . For albeit that his proposition were true , that of tvvo equall thinges concurring togither in one subiect , the most ancient ought to bee preferred : yet notwithstanding it shall haue no preheminence , if the nobility of both issue out of one fountain . But what shall we say , if the one spring of a more perfect and worthy obiect then the other ? Shal we deeme it more noble , onely bicause it is more ancient ? Trulie no , Madam . The like ought to be considered in vs two , for albeit that he be descended of a more ancient and noble familie , we ought to haue regard vnto that which is most proper to perfect nobilitie . As we may plainlie see in those two images , which are there before you , and are wonderfull pleasing to the sight of those that beholde them ; yet dooth the one drawe a kinde of desire more then the other , because it is made more approching vnto life , wherein the excellencie and perfection of them doth consist , although the other be of greater antiquitie . Novv the nobility of the mind descending of a far more excellent and noble obiect ( as before we depart from hence I will shew you ) then the nobilitie of bloud : we ought not then to haue recourse vnto the antiquity , but to the perfection and excellencie therof . Doe you now thinke Madam , that Possidonio did speak so well as you beleeued ? But dooth not that which I haue answered thorowlie content you ? Surely I am in good hope it doth . But this your gentle remembrāce , putteth me in mind of that which Possidonio did handle afterwards ; when as he said , that in asmuch as nature is more perfect than art , his nobilitie being naturall , and mine artificiall , he concluded his nobilitie to be more worthy and more perfect , and consequently , that hee was the more noble . But Possidonio , like as thy other arguments were all disagreeing from the troth , euen so is this . For suppose the case that nature bee more perfect then art , it followeth not that thy conclusion is true : forsomuch as nature hauing equally framed vs all , shee fashioned the minde of man pure and cleane equally in all men : but like as a white paper is apt at the first , to receiue the impression of whatsoeuer thou wilt write therin , if thou fillest the same with vertuous and good works , then it is good and precious ; if with bad and vicious , then is it hurtfull and nothing worth : Euen so the mind of man , is apt by nature to receiue either vertue , or vice : if thou traine it vp in vertue , it will become vertuous and Noble ; but if thou dispose it to vice , dooest thou thinke it will euer become noble , albeit it descend of a Noble stocke ? No surely . Thus then we doe giue the price of nobilitie , not vnto nature but vnto art ; and so thy nature shal not be more perfect then my industry , as thou diddest conclude . Thou diddest perswade thy selfe Possidonio , that I should want breath : but dost not thou perceiue , hovv thy brags yesterday , are to day ouerthrovvne , so that thou hast no more to say . Now it is apparant vnto you all how great Possidonio his follies are , and of all other that doe follow his erroneous opinion , vvho deeming themselues noble by bloud ; and hauing no notable vertue to commende themselues , do fill their bodies with winde , feed their mind with smoke , and fly higher in the ayre then euer Icarus did , for surely in their countenances is seen nothing else , but winde , smoke , and light matters , by the which they are in no wise to be accounted true & perfect noble men . By this I well perceiue , that thou hast no other arguments to maintaine thy nobility , seeing that to finish and end thy discourse , thou diddest so lauishly brag of the great wealth and riches : which indeed seem no lesse then the name Possidonio doth import ; for in my iudgement it signifieth nothing else , then to be possessour of all . Thou didst run out at randon , in extolling thy braue and stately pallaces , thy faire and pleasant gardens , thy fieldes , thy flocks of beasts , thy sumptuous bankets , thy pompe , thy chiualrie , and a thousand other vaunts , which did not onely make thee worthy of so smal a ring , as that we are at variance for , but of a roiall crowne . O extreame sottishnes of men , which liue at this day ! The best is , that thou art not the only man , that art thus perswaded of thy selfe ; for it may be thou art the least of that opinion of such as are souldiors of that band . Euery where there are such fooles , who inioy no other contentment in this world , then to reckon vp their noble descent , who builde castles in the ayre , and seeke to bee commended for that which they neither haue , nor deserue : they exalt themselues with their own mouth , euen to the skies , feeding themselues with a vaine name , taking little thought of the substance and effect . But in asmuch as this great wealth , which thou diddest so stand vppon , maketh no more to thy purpose , then if thou haddest reckoned vp the riches of Midas , or of Marcus Crassus , leauing them now behind mee , and sayling ouer this thy windy and swelling sea , it is now high time , that I frame my course in a calmer vvater . Vpon the which setting forward with more leisure , I will passe on my nauigation so farre , as I shall thinke expedient . Worthy gentlemen , if we doe consider that which hath beene spoken this day , we shall finde that Possidonio yesterday preached vnto vs , not his owne nobilitie , but the honour of his predecessours ; telling vs of the great combats , the worthy exploits , the trophees , the victories of his great grandfathers , the priuiledges , the spoiles , the images , the portraitures , and much other such light stuf , which was nothing to our purpose . And surely it seemed vnto mee , that I heard them who are woont in open streets to set foorth the praises of other men , but to bee able to say nothing in their owne commendation . But insomuch as we haue to consider , which of vs two is the most noble , from henceforth setting aside the nobilitie of our auncesters , because the ring in question was not giuen vnto him who shoulde deriue his nobilitie from most ancient predecessors , but to the most noble of vs two ; denoting thereby the proper nobility belonging to our selues , and not y t vvhich belongeth to other men : It seemeth vnto me a thinge very conuenient ( for I think for all his weapons I need not fear any danger , but that I may walk whither I list ) by litle & little , to enter into the fruitful field of vertues & sciences ; and to make it certeinly known vnto you ( y t true & perfect nobility of man , dooth neither consist in antiquity of bloud , nor in wealth , but in the vertues of the mind ) when I shall haue alleadged such reasons as my slender capacity , & y e smal time which is left me , wil will giue me leaue , albeit that to perswade you in this point , the reasones already rehearsed may seeme sufficient . Whereunto Fabricio added some other words , and after he had a little taken breath , and called his wits togither as one halfe weary already , he gaue this beginning to his future discourse . Most worthy gentlemen . It was his pleasure , whose will doth moue the heauens , to create and frame all things we see in this world , to a certaine and due ende . The sunne ( which for the most part doth shine vnto vs , and from the which lesser starres doe take their light ) principally to shewe vnto vs the magnificence of his glory ; and next for the profit of man. Likewise he created the earth , the water , the ayre , the fire , and other liuing creatures , for the vse of man. But man himselfe was formed for God , that soueraign and infinite good and not for any other thing here beneath on earth . We know also by those motions we doe feele in our selues , that man is neuer thorowlie contented , albeit he haue vnder his power and dominion , whatsoeuer hee may especiallie wish or desire in this world : for though some one delight to haue children , or riches ; or great offices , dignities , and honour , and that fortune doe fauor him in al his demands , yet is y e desire of his minde neuer in rest , but hee still longeth couetously more and more , after somthing or other , bicause there is not here on earth any stability , nor the ende of any infinite good . But man by the intellectual knowledge of his vnderstanding , gaining the infinite grace and excessiue loue of him , who in himselfe is the infinitie of goodnes , his mortall desire is staid , & resteth it selfe ; like vnto a stone which being cast on high , neuer resteth vntill it come to the bosome of the earth , which is the last end of the rest thereof . Now I say , that he is most perfit , and noble , who approcheth neerest vnto this last end . Forasmuch as if I desire heate , surely how much the neerer I shall draw neerer vnto the fire , by so much shall I attain vnto my desire . Then to see who is y e most noble , & most perfit of vs two , wee ought to consider , which of vs approcheth neerest vnto the end hee was made for : For without doubt he shal be deemed the most noble , and not he who is descended of most noble bloud . And as you knowe , that no man can attaine vnto any end , but by some meanes : The meanes wee haue to come thereunto , is vertue , which hath residence in the soule , and not in the bodie : and God made the soule vnto his likenesse , and not the body where it remaineth , which in it selfe doth onely resemble brutish beastes . If then Possidonio , thou doest inrich this thy body , with apparell , and with wealth , if thou doest fill it with daintie fare , and leauest thy soule without the ornament of vertue , and good conditions : surely thou doest not adorne thy selfe with perfit Nobilitie , as degenerating from the determinate end thereof . For man being framed of body and soule , his will shall either encline to the body or the minde : If to the bodie , because it was framed of earth , which draweth downwardes , hee cannot comprehend , nor desire any other thing but terrestriall , and earthly matters . If to the minde , because it is nothing but a celestiall spirite , he cannot couet after anie other thing , then to mount on high , where al perfection consisteth , and disdaine fraile thinges which are on the earth . But man ought to gouerne himselfe according vnto reason , not according as the bodie , but as his soule guideth him ; the one being subiect vnto corruption , the other made to liue eternally . Likewise , the ornamentes of the soule , as that is immortall , euen so are they , and those that set forth the body are corruptible , as the body is . Forasmuch as both the internall and externall goodes of the bodie , which consist in a iust proportiō of members , in health , in force , in riches , in procreation of children , in building of pallaces , and such other things , are al fraile and transitorie , in asmuch as to day they haue their being , and in a moment are brought to the ground ; whereas contrarily , the goods of the soule are durable , perpetuall , and eternall . You see then howe much the soule is farre more perfit and noble then the body . Wherefore , if thou desirest to please the body , and I determine to serue and obey the soule , I shall haue so much aduauntage of thee in nobilitie , as the one excelleth the other : as if I should say . Those thinges that doe set forth the soule , are vertues which a man doth irreuocablie poure into his minde , for vertue is a firme abiding affection of the minde , which causeth whosoeuer is possessed therewith , to deserue great praise . And whensoeuer it is not constant , it looseth the name of vertue , seeing that this stabilitie of affection by continuall vse , and practise , is changed into an habitude . Some of these vertues doe consist in good maners and behauiour : others in the vnderstanding . The former doe consist in a meane , betweene two extreames : the latter , neither in extremitie , nor in a meane : as prudence , science , intelligence , and wisedome . Other some which by auncient writers are called morall vertues , are so many appetites , and desires as come into our minde . For if so bee that I am naturally addicted vnto women , or some other aboue measure desirous of daintie fare : Or else , if when reason commandeth , I doe abstaine from looking on a woman , or that other , from his meate , surely both of these in vs is a vice . Vertue then considering the middle of these extreames , with a strong bridle ouerruleth these inordinate appetites , which a man can hardly withstand at the first assault , because hee cannot so well at the first temper the naturall motions of the fleshe , nor refrayne the insatiable desire of the belly . The like I may say of diuerse and sundrie desires of man , which cause him to fall into abhominable vices . Now if Vertue did not oppose it selfe against vice , I doubt not but our estate shoulde whollie resemble , if it were not worse then the life of beastes voide of reason . There are besides other vices , which man beeing ouertaken withall , perswading himselfe they proceede from vertue , hee falleth headlong into them . As if I should extreamely thirst after honor and dignitie : And thou shouldest shewe thy selfe ouer liberall in spending thy goods ; If this man should rashly thrust himself into the midst of a fray . In these vnbrideled appetites , albeit they seeme good , because that to be placed in honour , to bee liberall , and a man of courage , haue the apparence of good thinges , yet notwithstanding they are vitious , and ought to bee auoided . Forasmuch as my desire leaneth to ambition , thine to prodigalitie : and the rashe courage of the other , to foolish hardinesse . Likewise who so vseth the contrarie of these , is no lesse worthie of blame ; For if I beeing worthy , did disdainfully refuse a place of dignitie : Or thou diddest withholde thy hand ouer straitely in the distributing of thy goodes where neede were ; and the other being vrged by his enemies , did play the coward : Surely both the former & the latter sort of men , which tie themselues to those extreams , are vitious , and ought to be auoided : as in like maner hee is , who doth either hide , or debarre his companion of those things , which in reason hee may affoord him . Wherefore to moderat this my vnbrideled desire of the flesh , or his vnordinate feeding , there commeth a vertue , named Temperance , which by reason doth appease , and ouerrule the vnruly appetites of man. How greatly is Philoxenes to be blamed , who being enchanted by the desire of eating , wished aboue all other things , that his neck were as long as the necke of a crane ▪ that he might feed with the more pleasure : and Semiramis queene of the Assyrians , who so dissolutely abandoned her selfe vnto the pleasures of the flesh , that beeing depriued of all sence and vnderstanding , shee sought carnally to couple her selfe with her sonne Ninus ? Surely verie much , as they who in guise of men did liue intemperately like beasts . This vertue doth not onelie temper those delightes , which are common with vs and brute beastes : but it doth likwise appease sorrow , from whence doth spring gratious modestie , inuiolate continencie , moderate sobrietie , honest chastitie , and other good workes . In like maner to temperate his furious temeritie , who inconsideratly thrusteth himselfe amidst his enemies , or his faintnesse of heart , who beeing assailed by his aduersarie , doth flie from him : Fortitude doth step in place , a worthy vertue , which obtaineth the meane betweene foolish-hardinesse , and feare . The rashnesse of Phaeton gaue him courage to gouerne his fathers chariot , although he altogither wanted skill thereto : and encouraged Icarus to flie in the aire . Which maketh me affirme that the valiaunt man ought to dread no daunger , no not death it selfe , nor any other thing when need requireth , hauing due consideration of the place ; the time , and the maner how he enterpriseth any thing : but he ought to feare that , which if hee shoulde not dread , would cause him to be contemned , as dishonour , enuy , the chastitie of his wife , and suche other thinges , as who so feareth is honest , and iealous of his reputation . Likewise that ought to be feared which passeth the force of man , for he is no lesse worthy of reprehension , who dreadeth that which hee ought to feare , then he who feareth that which he ought not to dread . As wee reade of Artemon the Grecian , who was so fearefull , that he neuer stirred not so much as out of his house , but two of his seruauntes continuallie held an yron buckler ouer his head , fearing least something shoulde fall vpon him : or if any thing did fall , that hee might be the better defended from it : and if at any time he went abroad , he was carried in a litter wel couered . This vertue then doth cause men to expose themselues with consideration to such dangers as doe happen , and patiently to suffer labour and sorrowe , which is a farre harder matter for a man to doe , then to abstaine from pleasure . Heerehence doth spring magnificence , which is so much commended , tollerable patience , firme perseuerance , and magnanimitie of courage . But to bridle the euill disposition of him , who after a tyrannical sorte doth occupie that which by right doth belong vnto another his equall : therein Iustice doth offer it selfe , which is a vertue farre more excellent then any other , beeing either vniuersall , or particular . Vniuersall iustice is that , which within it selfe doth containe the two foresaid vertues , and is farre more noble then they are , by Iustice good lawes are obserued , which doe dispose men , and make them fit to doe good actions , and vpon deserued penaltie doe prohibite men from wickednesse . This vertue doth containe the vse , and habitude of other vertues , wherefore by good reason it is called perfect , and vniuersall , especially inasmuch as if temperance be good , that shall onely bee profitable for him that possesseth it ; and so I may say likewise of Fortitude : but Iustice is common , and vniuersall to al men , and as a vertue descended from aboue , it shineth as a heauenly light . Particular Iustice , no lesse to be commended then other vertues , consisteth in equitie ( for we ought in the same maner to accompt both of commoditie and discommoditie ) and in the obseruation of faith in thinges promised . Nowe of this vertue doth proceede the obseruation of lawes , trueth , pietie , obedience , and likewise liberalitie , which holding the middle betweene spending and sauing , doth restraine the vice of prodigalitie , and couetousnesse : For like as the prodigall man is carelesse in getting , and lauishe in giuing : So the couetous man is ouer carefull in heaping vp riches , and too nigardly in spending . Neither is the auaritious man farre vnlike to the miserable ambitious person , betweene whom , and this other who despiseth honour beeing worthy thereof , there commeth a vertue considering the meane , of the which ariseth magnanimitie of courage . I could bring you infinite examples fitting this purpose , which I doe forbeare , least my speach should be ouer long , intending likewise to returne to discourse of intellectuall vertues : and first of all to shewe you , that some of the foresaide morall vertues , cannot be without prudence , which consisteth in those thinges , which are subiect to chaunge , beeing sometimes after this fashion , sometimes after another : Herehence proceedeth counsell , and election . As for example , if thou shouldest offer vnto mee manie good thinges , and manie euill thinges , counselling me , whether of them should be especially , either of the good more profitable , or of the euill thinges more hurtfull : Thorough prudence I woulde make choice of that which were most commodious , and least dangerous , thereby ordering thinges present , remembring thinges past , and foreseeing thinges to come . On Prudence , reason , vnderstanding , and discretion attendeth . Thorough Science , which consisteth in firme , and true thinges , wee knowe , and vnderstand the conclusion , wherevnto it aspireth , leauing the principles to bee considered of by intelligence : For in searching out , if God be the Soueraigne good , knowing it thorough Science , I seeke to vnderstand what God is . Afterwardes by Wisedome I comprehend the principles , and that which proceedeth of them : whereof by good right , it is named the true knowledge of diuine and humane thinges . The vertues of the minde being then the ornament of the soule , which is the subiect of the saide vertues , they are ( as I said ) the meanes to attaine vnto the end wee shoote at . He shall be then most Noble , hee shall be most perfite , and amongest mortall men most renowmed ; which being adorned with the vertues I haue recited , shall approch neerest vnto this Soueraigne , and infinite good . We see that the water is more noble then the earth , the aire then the water , and the fire then the aire , because it is neerer therunto then any of the other Elementes . The like is to be obserued in the orders of Angels , which are deuided into three Hierarchies , and the Hierarchies into so many Thrones : Inasmuch as that is the most worthie Hierarchie , which approcheth neerest vnto the creator of heauen . Now the Seraphins ( as being neerest vnto God , forasmuch as no Angelicall spirite dooeth not contemplate more immediatly his diuine essence then they doe ) and the Cherubins with the Thrones which are seated in the first Hierarchie , doe exceede in perfection , and nobilitie , the Gouernement , the Principalities , and the powers , which are in the second Hierarchie . These are more noble then the third , as being further off from the diuine presence , in the number whereof are , the Vertues , the Archangels , and Angels . To speake more plainly vnto thee Possidonio , take me for example a Prince in Soueraigne degree of nobilitie , whose children haue issue , I demand if his children their issue shal be accompted as noble as his owne : Surely no , because they are a discent farther off from the Prince ( from whom their nobilitie proceedeth ) then the first issue from him : and so wee ought to esteeme of the lower degrees . If then ●ossidonio , thou doest approche neerest vnto the end whereunto we were framed , thy mind being so highly qualified with vertues , as I haue briefly recited to thee : I wil then yeeld vp my interest touching this cōtrouersie , without debating y e matter any more : in regarde of any nobility of bloud deriued frō thy ancestors , which maketh as much for true nobilitie , as the light of a candle neere vnto the cleere sunne-shine : But if I prooue vnto thee , that I doe come neerest vnto this end , wilt not thou graunt me , that I am more noble then thou art , and that the victory belongeth vnto me ? Surely thou canst not say any thing to the contrary . I will sufficiently declare vnto thee , that I come neerest thereunto hauing graced my life with vertues , vvhich are the only meanes to attaine vnto it . Fabricio hauing spoken in this maner , and somwhat taken breath after his long discourse , turning himselfe againe towardes the company , with a plyant voice , proceeded on this manner . You see most worthy gentlemen , that by the verie matter of this discourse , I am constrained fullie to laie open my life vnto you , and consequently such vertues as are in me , and not other mens . Wherfore this smal speech wil necessarily turne to my praise and commendation , contrary to my pretended purpose , bicause that true nobilitie , consisting ( in my opinion ) in the proper vertues of the minde , as I did most plainly prooue vnto you ; I cannot declare , and much lesse make you vnderstande , whether I am noble , or not , except I recount them vnto you : for this respect ( and God knoweth how willingly ) I had rather that heereafter some other should take the matter vpon him for me , as likewise bicause I would not that any should girde at me therfore : which in friendlie maner I beseech you may not be denied me , seeing that I am constrained thereunto , and that it lyeth vpon mee vainly to set foorth mine owne praises , and to tax another man. Howsoeuer it happen , trusting in your vertues , I will freely embolden my self , with the greatest breuitie that I can , to sette foorth my praises vnto you . I then being in my childish years , after that my tung began by little and little to vntie it selfe , instructed in precepts of vertue , I say I began to adorne my life , and my mind with such qualities , as were fittest for my tender age : and likewise my young mind beeing capeable of vnderstanding , my memorie of retaining , and my wit apt for learning , I gaue my selfe to the pleasant studie of humanitie ; where I did not onelie lay vp in my memorie the remembrance of manie fables , and manie histories , but likewise the knowledge of mans life , by the which I might easilie discerne for the ornament and dutie of my life , what waie was to be auoided , and which was to be followed . And longing further to attaine to the knowledge of the Artes and Sciences , and not onelie of them by which vvee doe discerne that which is false , from the troth ; and of those other by vvhich vve are made partakers of the vnderstanding , both of matters naturall and heauenlie : but especiallie desiring to embrace moral philosophie ( which if vvee vvil giue credite vnto Cicero and others ) wise Socrates , leauing the studie of natural philosophie , as lesse profitable to cōuerse one with another in this world , broght from heauen to earth ) I vvas constrained to leaue my Countrie , and my parentes , to trauaile thither vvhere all liberall exercises are maintained , euerie dull vvit is instructed , and euerie harde vnderstanding softened . There did I beautifie my vnderstanding , and my mind with knowledge and vertue , in so large measure as I need not nowe to declare vnto you . By this meanes Possidonio doe I beleeue , that a man becommeth renovvmed and noble . By vertue accompanied with worthie sciences , the mind of man is made noble and excellent . Vertue is that which tempereth a man that is of a milde nature , graceth him with honest and courteous conditions , maketh him prudent and wise , and finallie of a mortal man , immortall . That is the onely meanes by which we attaine to the perfect knowledge of him , who is the last ende and marke wee aime at . I saie vertue is that wherewith the soule being beautified , doth cause vs to approch to the ende wee were made for , and consequentlie maketh vs partakers of the light therof . He that is a true noble man doth not shine , ( neither ought he to shew himselfe by means of any other beames , ) then those that spring and growe from vertue . Now thou mayest be able hereafter to knowe Possidonio , from whence true Nobilitie of the minde dooth proceed , and to perceiue likewise , if learning is vaine or rather necessary , yea and the Sciences themselues , for the aduancement of nobilitie . Now thou mayst vnderstande , how much learning is to be esteemed aboue riches , by those that are perfect noble men . But besides the examples I haue already alleadged , I will yet moreouer giue you to vnderstand , how highlie it hath beene accounted of by other men of olde time . For asmuch as onlie by the Poet Euripides his going to Syracusa , the Syracusans who had vnder their power many Athenian prisoners , they gaue them all their libertie , bicause they had learned without booke manie verses of Euripides who was an Athenian by birth . Bee you now the iudge , what greater guift they might haue presented to the Author of these verses . And diuine Plato being by Denis the Tyrant , called from Athens into Sicilia , which voyage hee made by Sea , he no sooner set foote on land , but he was by him receiued in a triumphant chariot , and after that maner he entered the citie . Surely Denis did not this honour neither to the wealth of Plato , nor to the worthinesse of his bloud , but to his deepe skill and vertue . Alexander of Macedonia , hauing giuen Darius King of Persia the ouerthrowe , amongest the kinges treasure hee founde a most pretious little casket , inriched with gold & pretious stones , wherin the Persian K. was wont to preserue his most pretious and odoriferous ointmentes : but Alexander , put neither ointment nor pretious Iewel , nor any of his treasure therein , but the poeticall workes of Homer the Grecian , imagining he had not in al his tresure , a iewell of greater value , which did better deserue to be locked vp there . The reason hereof was not because Homer was born of any noble stock , or that he had been of great wealth ( for scarce was any man of so lowe estate in regarde of riches ) but in respect of his diuine knowledge and vertue . If then the true estimation of man , proceedeth from vertue and knowledge , whoe dare then affirme , that they doe not make him noble , who is vertuous , of good behauiour , and wise , albeit he be not descended of any noble bloud ? Surely he should be a wicked person , vicious , and foolish , that should iudge otherwise . For he whom thou dost call and deeme to bee noble , hath onelie the apparance of a noble man : but those I speak of are noble indeed , in asmuch as their vnderstanding is made noble , the which doth afterward send forth the light thereof , for the ornament of our life . If thou art of this making Possidonio , I will iudge thee a perfect Noble man , but not in regard thou art onely descended of a noble stocke . And truely both thy actions , and theirs likewise , who at this day do vaunt them selues of the nobility of their bloud , are wholy disposed and readie to followe the vanities and pleasures of the body , which laste but for a while , and not the seruice of the soule which is eternall and euerlasting . Bloud then auaileth nothing to true & perfect nobilitie ; & how little it maketh for thee , I haue already declared : for that which the vulgar sort esteemeth nobilitie of bloud , hath no other good thing in it selfe , but a facilitie , and sleight to make one Noble . O how many are there , whom this nobilitie of bloud , being considered in man without any other qualitie , of noble , maketh them base ! For it is nourished with ignorance , fed with pride , increased with audacitie , liueth with temeritie , ruled with lightnesse , brought vppe in theftes , robberies , wantonnesse , violence , blasphemie , euil speech ; & to conclude , continued in vanitie , which is an enimie to knowledge , a traitor to vertue , and contrarie to true nobilitie . Imagine now Possidonio , how noble and perfect this thy Nobilitie of bloud is , thorough the which thou persuadest thy selfe , thou hast attained to the highest degree of Nobilitie that may be imagined , whereas thou art lowest of all other , whereinto the foolish opinion of the vulgar sort doth easilie cause thee to fal : forsomuch as without any difference at all , they call those Noble men , who haue but onely a shadow of Nobilitie , aswell as they , who are true noble men . Consider how light and carelesse the miserable beleefe of mortall men is , and howe it is openly deceiued . I say then Possidonio , that thou art not noble , and that in thee can no markes of true Nobilitie bee seene , but rather a shadowe , or to say the troth , a meer & bare name of Nobility . Which if it be so , as I haue made manifest vnto you ( and surely it is so , and cannot be otherwise ) I may saie in arguing after this manner . That by how much the effect is far more perfect , and more commendable then the name of any thing whatsoeuer ; by so much I am , and so doe deeme my selfe more noble then thou art : and howe farre the effect excelleth the name , is euident of it selfe . For asmuch as if I desire rather effectually to bee learned , then so taken , as I know thou couetest to be rich , then to be called wealthy . Whereby thou mayest now well perceiue , in what case thou art , albeit yesterday thou wert of beleefe , after thou haddest recited so manie fables for proofe of thy nobilitie , that I shuld haue nothing to speak against thee this day , but thou mayest hereafter iudge better whether I had any thing to say or no : for to goe thorough with that which offereth it selfe to bee spoken herein , much more time then is now left vnto vs wuld not suffice to handle the matter . Wherefore I will proceed further . Now considering ( gratious gentlemen ) that vvhich Possidonio intended yesterdaie , vvhen as he said , that he is a true and perfect noble man , because hee is discended of noble parents . Suppose the case that his proposition were true , y t vvhosoeuer is borne of a noble stock is a noble man , if I did denie that hee were issued of noble familie , vvhat could he say vnto me ? Tell me Possidonio ; if so be I should deny that thou wert ingendred of noble bloud , vvhat wouldest thou answere me ? what certainty wouldest thou giue me thereof ? Surely thou vvouldest long goe groping in the darke before thou couldst ascertaine me thereof , and vvouldst neuer be able to proue it vvith sound reasons , by vvhich I should be constrained of necessitie to beleeue it . If then vvee are not certaine of thy birth , it follovveth that thy nobilitie ought rather to bee called credible then certaine . Wherefore I may very well say thus much . That euen as a certaine and true thing , is farre more perfect then that , which vve onelie beleeue to be certaine : So is my nobilitie farre more certaine than thine , because it is to be beleeued indeed , and not to bee presumed onelie , that I am noble , in regard that the true essence of nobilitie remaineth in me . Thou vvouldest then say perhaps ( quoth one of the young Ladies , vvho was offended with the last wordes of Fabricio , because she vvas a kinswoman vnto Possidonio ) that hee is not his fathers sonne , seeing there is no more certaintie of his birth then thou affirmest ? Truly Fabricio thou art falne into a great errour . As though wee knevve not what house hee is come of ? Thou shouldest not so openlie alleadge that which is false to prooue thy argumentes as pleaseth thee , for it doeth ill become thee : and now I hold that which Possidonio affirmed for troth , and that thou wouldest with thy subtill Sophistrie make vs beleeue , that white is blacke . Scarce had the young Ladie ended hir wordes , but all the company began to laugh , with such earnestnes , that their heartes were sore therewith ; and she imagining that they mocked her demanded saying . But I pray you vvhereat doe you laugh ? Suddenlie the Lady Aurelia answered , who vvould not laugh to heare thee say so simply that Possidonio is not his fathers sonne , as though he could be begotten without a father ? The young lady halfe angry , and with shame dying her cheeks with vermillion , like vnto the morning rose , said onely , I know wel enough what I meane ; wherunto Fabricio answered smilingly . I knovv he is his fathers sonne , but I am not certaine vvhether he were his father , whom all we do imagine , or no : and it is to no purpose to say , that his father called him sonne , or any such like tales , for that can in no wise make me assured thereof . We may then ( quoth she , not regarding their laughter ) by this reason , say the like of al that are here presēt . It is true Madam ( qd Fabricio . ) Alas poor soule that I am ( qd she ) euer since I was borne , I haue hitherunto bin sure who was my father , & likwise held my mother for an honest woman , and nowe thou makest a doubt thereof . How great laughter began againe amongst them al , both men and women , you may easilie coniecture ; but after they were all quiet , Fabricio proceeded on further in this manner . Madam , I will grant vnto you , that Possidonio is descended of noble parentes , and consequently that his nobilitie is certain : yet is not that nobilitie more praise worthy which a man obtaineth by his owne labor and trauaile , and thorough his owne vertues , then that hee receiueth from others ? Surely not a little . And whether of the two wilt thou iudge to be more noble , either thy selfe Possidonio , or thy predecessors , who were the beginners and first founders of this thy Nobilitie ? For they were most valiant men at Armes , and as thou diddest yesterday conclude , and I do grant thee , they were pleasing , and well accepted of their Princes : now surely wilt thou iudge thy selfe more noble then they , who dooest onelie represent their nobilitie , I beleeue that without any contradiction , thou wilt giue them the vpper hand . You may see now , how much more the nobilitie which any man doth purchase vnto himselfe , is farre more perfect then that which he taketh from his ancestors . Mine being of that sort , without doubt it is more perfect and more noble then thine . If I would henceforward strike the sailes of my ship , and cast anchor to staie my selfe , without passing any further , I should thinke I were arriued at the wished hauen , and hitherunto to haue made as much waie as is necessarie for our enterprise : but seeing the western wind bloweth on me with a pleasant gale , and that the sea is calme , & affoordeth me a prosperous nauigation , my heart will not suffer me as yet to strike saile , but I will by little and little put out further . The great Monarch of heauen , and good guide of the earth ( worthy gentlemen ) hauing here beneath in this world created all thinges , it pleased him in the end amongst all other liuing creatures , which hee had framed , to forme one , who being the most perfit , and most noble of all others , should haue the dominion of all other thinges hee had before created , and to him ( albeit that he was made and framed of earth , as the scriptures doe witnesse ) he gaue reason , by which he should rule , and gouerne himselfe . Men were borne , and so they are yet at this day , as some do beleeue , with equall mindes , with equall powers , and with equall vertues . Because nature , as wel to the riche as to the poore , to the noble man , as to the peasant , to the mightie as to the weake , hath giuen reason and vnderstanding , and brought them all naked into the worlde . And who is he , how poore , abiect , and miserable soeuer , who at his first beginning , had not a minde , like vnto the minde of euery Prince or king ? Surely no man. We wil say then , that nature wherof thou diddest make such great brags , yesterday , doth not bring forth one man better , or more noble , then other . Now all men being equall by birth , vertue was that which first of all did distinguish them , and made a difference betweene man and man , because that whosoeuer shewed himself most familiar , and deuout towards her , was called noble , and the rest remained ignoble . And whosoeuer he was that did first of all inuent this word Nobilitie , he denoted thereby a singularitie , and separation from other men . For Nobilitie is as much to say , as a note or marke , and a noble man , as a man more noted , and knowne , then any others . By reason wherof , man hauing by his the height and value of his courage , made proofe of many laudable actions , and worthie workes , hee commeth to be separate from the vulgar sort , and knowne more plainely , whereupon it pleased the first inuenter , to terme this separation , and this knowledge , Nobilitie . And to say the truth , it was not without apparent reason : for if wee looke into the effect and substance of this Nobilitie , we shall find that therein which I haue recited . Forasmuch as Nobilitie is no other thing ( without intermedling with y t which Possidonio alleaged yesterday : For I haue this day prooued how true that is ) I say Nobilitie is nothing else , but an excellencie , by the which things that are most worthy , do take place before those that are lesse worthy . We see amongest the planets ( for his perfect excellencie ) y e sun is more noble , and hath preheminence aboue al other planets , being of lesse worth : Amongst stones the diamond : amōgst mettals , gold : amōgst greater stones , the Phorphir . Euen the like is in man : for hee is more noble and worthy then other , who is most excellent and perfit amongst them : which excellencie and perfection , is deriued from the nobilitie of the vnderstanding , and not from the body , to seperate man from brute beasts , as I said before . Wel may you perceiue by this , that vertue in man is that which maketh him Noble and excellent , & causeth him to be preferred before others , and not bloud , nor riches , as thou didst affirme Possidonio . And euen as man is far more excellent and noble then any other liuing creature ; so by this excellencie & vertue of the minde , one man is more worthy , and more excellent then another . Now if hee is noble who with his owne vertues hath made the excellencie which is in himselfe manifest , what excellencie hast thou euer shewed to be in thee , tel me what greatnes , & what vertue is in thy mind ? And who knoweth not this , that without great labor , a man cannot attaine to anie worthy action , or laudable deed . Beleeue not Possidonio , that remaining continually idle as thou dooest and pampered in daintinesse , that thou art like euer to prooue a noble man , which thou diddest yesterday declare in reciting the liues of thy predecessors , which did neuer spare neither cold , nor heat , nor fire , nor trauell in the world , to the end they might not only take y e name of Nobilitie vpon them , but the effect likewise , and hauing taken it , keep and conserue it . By such means man may aduance himselfe , and become noble and renowmed amongst others , & not by bloud . Writers report more of the vertue which Iulius Cesar shewed in Germanie and France , then of his birth . Neither doe they so much write what bloud Octauius Augustus was come of , as they haue done of y e ouerthrow he gaue to M. Antonius , & Cleopatra , neer to the mountain Actium in Epire , & of other his worthy actiōs , by which he brought into his subiection al Spain towards the West , the Tartarians & the Sarmatians towards the North , the Indians towards the East , the Parthians , y e Armenians : Tygranes king of the Medes , the inhabitants of Bosphorus & of Propontis , & those of either side the Rhin , and of the Danube , with infinit other nations : Of Pompey the great , the son of Pompey , Strabo doth recite his triūphs ▪ especially y t which he had in Affrique against Domitiā . The deliuerance y t Brutus freed his countrey from , whē he did driue frō thence Tarquin y e proud , with his successors , was cause that he was named the father of the Romane liberty : the like is said of y e other Brutus . Fabius Maximus was likwise rightly called the defender of the commonwealth , when he bridled the fierce courage of Anniball of Carthage . The wonderful ouerthrow , that Claudius Nero gaue y e Carthaginians , when he presented Asdrubal his head to his brother , do cause vs to remember him ; not y e bloud nor the generosity of his ancestors . The great value of Horatius , who gaue the people of Rome their libertie , when as hee alone standing on the bridge , did resist the Tuscanes . The glorious Trophees , and many victories which Camillus the great obtained against the Falisci , are recommended vnto vs : especial●y those which in his exile he had against the Gaules , who had forcibly taken and burned the citie of Rome . Likewise in this his expedition hee gloriously vanquished the Volsci , the Latines , the Equi , the Erinqui , with other Nations . Of Tyberius Gracchus , who also subdued the Gaules . Of Paulus Emilius , who conquered the Gaules that dwelt on both sides the Alpes . Of Paulus Emilius his sonne , who hauing brought Liguria into subiection , ouerthrewe , and tooke Perseus king of Macedonia . Of Marcus Claudius Marcellus , who surmounted and slue Viridimarus king of the Gaules . Of al these there is nothing spoken of their Nobilitie , or of their bloud , or of their descent . The wonderful deeds which both the Scipiones did , as well in Spaine , as in Affrique , and Asia , for the which the one was called Scipio Africanus , the other Asiaticus , doe cleerely manifest their renowne while the worlde doth stand in euerie place , and not their familie . The value of L. Martius , who succeeded those two , against Gisgon and Magon , gathered the Romaine army togither , which was all broken , and valiantly ouercame the enemies . Likewise the vertues of Scipio Nasica , were such , that besides the victorious triumphs he obtained ouer his aduersaries , he was rightly iudged by the Senate , to be the worthiest of the Romaines , and that not in regard that hee was descended of the most noble stocke of Rome . And if I would so farre forth inlarge my discourse , as well I might concerning this matter by true , and no fabulous examples : surely neither time , nor my tongue woulde serue me to expresse them . Thou maiest see then Possidonio , that so manie auncient trumpets as doe resound in the world , do not set forth neither the worthinesse of bloud , nor the antiquitie of linage , nor the rich pallaces of so many worthy knightes , but their notable vertue , their wonderful prowesse , and their singular greatnesse of courage . The bloud of that diuine Plato , or of learned Aristotle , or of wise Pythagoras , of Socrates , of Diogenes , of Xenophon , of Demosthenes , of Thales Milesius , of Chilon the Lacedemonian , of Pittacus , of Bias , of Cleobulus , of Periander , whose wisedome did beautifie Greece , nor of other Philosophers , by whose learning the secrets of Nature haue been opened vnto vs , was not so glorious and renowmed , as their vertue , of great fame . What doe wee heare of the birth of Homer the Grecian , or of Virgil of Mantna ? What of that eloquent Cicero ? What of the offspring of famous Titus Liuius of Padua ? of M. Varro ? Or of Crispus Salustius ? What of the stocke of Plinie of Verrona ? and of all they , who by their learning are at this day renowmed in the world ? Truely nothing at all . But of their diuine skill , their arte and vertue , all men haue written and spoken . Therehence proceedeth that excellencie by the which one man is to bee preferred before another . From thence springeth that dignitie , which causeth one man to bee distinguished and knowne from another : Therehence proceedeth that true knowledge which maketh a Noble man : from thence groweth that separation and diuision betweene man and man , causing the one to bee esteemed Noble , gentle ▪ and accomplished , and the other ignoble , abiect and vile . To conclude , from thence true nobilitie hath his beginning . You may see nowe Possidonio , of what small accompt bloud is in matter of Nobilitie . It is then necessarie for him , whosoeuer hee be that desireth to become Noble , to beautifie his minde , with good and vertuous actions . I say his minde , which is as readie and apt to take the impression of Nobilitie , as a faire looking glasse , which doth as well receiue the beautifull forme of faire Ladies , as the ill countenance of ill fauoured women , so the minde of man is prepared to receiue , either Nobilitie , or basenesse . For as it adorneth it selfe either with good or bad conditions , so doth it present them vnto them . Consider a man whose minde is iust , couragious , temperate , prudent , pitifull , charitable , and louing , graced with all vertues : and another whose minde is vniust , vnconstant , lauish , foolish , cruel , wicked , hatefull , and disgraced with all vice : wilt not thou iudge the first , more noble and perfit ( albeit he be not descended of some noble parents ) then the latter ? And what if some times the first were but meanlie apparelled , and the latter did weare costly garmentes , wilt thou say that hee were more noble , of more accompt , and worthy of more estimation ? no surely as I thinke : for I perswade my selfe , thou hast now changed thy opinion : And that thou wilt not fall into that errour which many doe , who beleeue that he ought to be more esteemed & more honoured then others , who is well apparelled . For if thou diddest put costly rayment vpon a porter or some such fellowes backe , perhaps he would seeme a farre more proper man , then a great manie such gentlemen : and yet I hope you will not say hee is a noble man. For example heereof , take Diogenes the prince of the Senicall sect , who went alwaies barefoot , with an old patched cloke on his shoulders , & in this maner was he found in Crania , by Alexander the great when he went to visite him : as we said of late . Such a kinde of habite did not giue commendation either to his wisedome , or his nobilitie . Epaminondas that famous Prince , and leader of the Thebane armies , did alwaies weare an old worne gown : which because he did neuer vse anie other , hee caused it oftentimes to be mended , whilest in the meane time he kept his house . You may now know hereafter , that true and perfit Nobilitie , is deriued from no other fountaine , then the vertues of the minde , and not from the worthinesse of bloud . Here Fabricio paused a while , and afterwardes followed on his discourse in this maner . Consider Possidonio , that poore apparell doth not defraud a man of his demerites . And like as wee haue concluded , that true Nobilitie descendeth from the vertues of the minde , and not from the dignitie of bloud : So then wee will yet conclude , that it doth not worke his effect , no not in riches . Forasmuch as if wee would maintaine this opinion of thine , that riches are not onely an ornament , but rather necessarie to the bringing forth of perfit nobilitie ; it shoulde followe that pouertie , should make a man base and abiect , and as an enemie of true Nobilitie , it ought to be banished : but hee is greatly to be blamed who is of this opinion : Forasmuch as pouertie is not to be contemned , nor eschued , for such is the passion it bringeth vs , as is the mind that receiueth it . For if the mind of man be addicted to y t which is contrarie vnto it , that is vnto riches , it breedeth no delight , nor pleasure , but cruell bondage , and infinite labour , and as a traitour to rest and quietnesse , doth miserably afflict the thoughtes of man. And of this beleefe art thou Possidonio , for because thy minde longeth after riches , thou perswadest thy selfe that pouertie is cause of all mischiefe , whereas in deede the euill ariseth of thy vnbrideled affection , which is buried in riches , and not of pouertie . But if the mind of man be not drowned in riches , pouertie shall be verie pleasant , and delightfull vnto him , and his minde shall be ioyfull , and at libertie . Democritus , beeing nourished with pouertie , gaue as a gift vnto the common wealth of Athens his infinite wealth , imagining hee might farre better followe his studie , with pouertie , then seruilie subiect himselfe vnto riches . Like vnto him were Diogenes , and Anaxagoras . What shall I say of Phocion of Athens , especially worthie all honour and glorie ; who albeit hee had twentie seuerall times been Emperour of the Athenians : yet did hee in such sort loue pouertie , that the Ambassadours of Alexander the great comming vnto him , and bringing as a present , a great quantitie of golde , they found his wife kneading of dowe , and himselfe drawing water , whereby they deemed him to be verie needie , and yet notwithstanding he did refuse so rich a gift ; esteeming that to liue with pouertie , did bring greater tranquilitie vnto man , then to possesse great treasure . Surely more ioyfull , and worthie of greater glorie , was the life of Aristides the Athenian , with his welbeloued pouertie , then the condition of Callias his fellowe Citizen , with his aboundant wealth . And tell mee Possidonio , what vilenesse did the pouertie of Quintus Cincinatus , and Attilius Serranus , men of excellent Vertues , bring vnto them ? Who tilling the grounde , and sowing their corne , were worthilie chosen by the Senate to be the conductors of the Romaine armie : and those selfesame hands which did guide the plough , became rulers of chariots of triumph . The apparant pouertie of M. Curius , a man of singular value , was no reproch vnto him , but rather made him worthy of eternall glorie , who after he had triumphed ouer the Samnites and the Sabines , returned to his poore cottage which was not capable of his greatnesse , whither the ambassadors of the Samnites bringing vnto him a great summe of golde to make their pacification with the Romaines , they found him sitting before the fire vpon a country stoole , eating in a woodden dish : and neuerthelesse he sent back their treasures after them , saying , y t he desired rather in his pouerty to command ouer those that were rich , then to become rich himselfe ; words well beseeming his magnanimitie of courage . Equall to this man in poorenesse , and stoutnesse of mind , was Fabricius Lucinus , who likewise refused the guiftes of the Samnites : neither yet were the treasures of Pirrhus king of Epire , which were offered vnto him , with the fourth part of his substance , sufficient to make him loose one iot of his value , albeit he was very poor . So manifest was Attilius Regulus his pouertie , that he coulde no more gouerne the empire in Affrike , because at Rome his children hadde not wherewithall to maintaine themselues . But tell me Possidonio , doost thou deeme that these men for all their pouertie were not noble ? God forbid , nay contrary , the singular vertue of their minde , made them most noble . Whereby thou mayst plainely perceiue , that if nobilitie may remaine with pouertie , and pouertie with nobilitie , together in one subiect , whie diddest thou yesterday persuade the contrarie ; esteeming that pouertie could aswell agree with Nobilitie , as fire and water togither ? And that his felicity is greater ( if so bee man can attaine to any on earth ) whose mind resteth contented with pouertie , then his happines , who hath attained to the height of worldly welth , and lordly authoritie : the disposition of Alexander the great may serue for proofe , who commaunding ouer the greater part of the worlde , because Anaxagoras told him that there were many worldes , hee lamented greatly in his presence , that he had not fully as yet conquered one . And Apollo may serue for witnesse heereof , whoe beeing demaunded by Giges king of Lidia , a prince of mighty power and wealth , if there were any man on earth more happy thē he was , by Oracle made answer , that Aglaus Sofides the poorest man of all Arcadia was more happie , because euen vntill his latter age hee had liued with contented pouertie , with a mind ful of quiet . By the which wee may vnderstand , that pouerty bringeth no reproch vnto nobilitie , and consequently that riches are not the ornament , nor any necessary parte thereof . If then , worthines of bloud be not necessary in matter of nobilitie , as with most euident reasons , and manie plain examples of diuers , who albeit they were discended of noble and royall bloud , were yet iudged ignoble , ( as this day I haue plainly shewed vnto you ) and if riches , how infinite soeuer , doe not giue any grace or ornament therunto ( as by the examples of many Noble and valiant Captaines I haue shewed vnto you ) vvhat manner of Nobilitie is then in Possidonio ? Of what estimation shall wee account him ? And if that pouertie bringeth no contempt to the greatnes of perfect nobility , but contrarily doth exalt it : and that likewise the basenesse of bloud of our predecessors , is no let vnto vs to becom noble , as not only by most pregnant proofs , but also by manifest examples of so many Popes , kings , Emperours , Consuls , Pretors , as by my discourse you haue heard , I haue caused you this day to vnderstande , who although they did descend of base parents , yet did they neuerthelesse by their deserts , mount vp vnto the soueraigne degree of nobilitie : It follovveth necessarilie , that my nobilitie is farre more worthye , and farre more perfect then Possidonios is . And if these examples bee not sufficient vvholie to mooue you , at the least let the example of Ventidius Bassus perswade you , who drawing his birth from a base and poore stocke , was in his young yeares taken vvith his mother by Pompeius Strabo , when hee brought the Ascolains into subiection , and before his Chariot was with other bondmen ledde captiue thorough Rome : but hee growing into further age , that hee might the better haue wherewithall to maintaine his estate , hee gaue himselfe to buy Mules , and with them to carrie trauellers by the vvaie ; by meanes whereof , he passed with Cesar into France , where he beganne to shew the greatnesse of his courage , he hauing during the Ciuill Warres many matters imposed vppon him of no smal importance , and did execute them all with great magnanimity , and great admiration . For which his vertues , he was not onely intertained into Cesar his friendshippe , but moreouer , had great office bestovved vpon him , beeing first made Tribune of the people , and afterwardes Pretor . And albeit that in that time he was with M. Antonius iudged an enimy of the Romans by y e senate , yet notwithstanding hauing made his peace , hee did not onely obtaine the office of a Pretor , but he attained likewise the degree of High Prelate , and afterwards was aduaunced to the dignitie of a Consul . This was that Ventidius , who beeing by M. Antonius made Generall of the Easte prouinces , put the Parthians to flight which were descended into Syria , and three sundry times gaue them great ouerthrowes , and was the first who in Rome triumphed ouer the Parthians . And after his death , was honourablie buried by the Romans . What was his birth ? what was his estate ? what vvere his riches ? vvho did of a bondslaue make him free ? who exalted him to so great nobilitie ? & to so great wealth ? surely it was not the antiquitie of y e bloud of his ancestors , nor his great welth , but the vertue of his minde . O worthy vertue vvhich possessing the mindes of men , dost exalt them euen to the skies ! Consider ( Gentlemen ) what let and reproch , the base birth of Ventidius , was vnto the glorie of his Nobilitie : Consider I pray you , if his issue from so meane a place , vvas any hinderance vnto him , to rise to so high honour . And beleeue not Possidonio , that at this daie there is any limited ende set , by which a man may become noble ; for euen as the noble families which at this day are in the vvorlde , haue hadde a beginning to make them noble ; so may the ignoble without any let , attaine thereunto . I may then conclude , that the basenesse of my bloud , nor the want of vvealth , are no let nor hinderance vnto mee to become noble . The worthines and vertue of man is that which maketh him noble . It maketh him rich , it exalteth him vnto the skies , and finally of a bond man , it setteth him free . Wherefore Possidonio , I need not feare though my auncestors , as thou diddest yesterday affirme , were scarse knowne , because I doubt not but that that vertue and learning vvhatsoeuer it be , that is in me , is of force sufficient to make those noble who shall hereafter issue from me , if so it be to be beleeued , that any nobilitie resideth in bloud . Doth it now seeme vnto thee , that I haue with my sophisticall arguments shewed white for blacke , wherof thou wert so much afraide ; or made thee vnderstand the verie troth it selfe ? And to the ende , I may more strongly perswade thee , thou must know this , that he is farre more noble , who being borne of base parentage , hath beautified his mind with vertue and good conditions , then he that is descended of a noble stock , being as wel qualified as the other . This perhaps may seeme strange vnto thee Possidonia ? yet will I make it very plaine . For no man will denie of any thing whatsoeuer , but the rewarde ought to counteruaile the paine that is taken : now hee vvhich is borne of base parentage taketh far more labor to become noble , then he that is descended of noble bloud : therefore he ought to receiue a greater recompence . That his labor is greater , cannot be denied . For he that is borne of noble bloud , is alwaies in the path to becom noble , and is not put to that pain , to attaine to the perfectiō of nobility , as he is , who is born of no noble stock , in asmuch as the one findeth the waye open and free , whereas the other findeth it full of rockes and thornes . Now both of them hauing attained therunto , who will denie me , but that his nobilitie ought to be more esteemed , whose father was but a meane man , then the other ? Surely not any man. Are these fables Possidonio ? Doth it as yet seeme strange vnto thee ? I hope not . Howbeit I will proceed further , and say . That hee ought to be more worthy of praise , who giueth himselfe vnto all worthy enterprises , not being forced nor constrained by any man , then he that addicteth himself vnto such laudable actions by force and compulsion . Now he that is by bloud noble , is rather forced then otherwise by his owne vertues , to set foorth his nobility , least that his fathers nobilitie do basely take end in him selfe , but rather that by him it may be maintained and conserued in his successors : wheras he which is born of no noble stock , is far more noble , and far more worthie of praise , then hee which is borne a Gent. although both of them be equal in vertue . Hast thou capacity to comprehend this reason Possidonio ? Thou mayst novv consider , if I vse any sophistry , as thou diddest doubt I wuld ; for surely these are most manifest reasons , which I alledge for the troth , the which notwithstanding is manifest and cleere of it selfe . Fabricio went stil forward in his discourse , when as M. Peter Anthony interrupting him , & turning towards him said . This thy conclusion should be very great Fabricio , if it were as true as it is apparant , and as it seemeth thou dost affirme it for troth : For somuch as that part is alwaies of most force and strongest ( which cannot be denied ) where two reasons do concur togither then wher there is but one . Nowe he that is of noble bloud , & innobled by his vertues , hath in him two sorts of nobility , the one of bloud , the other proceeding of vertue , which cannot be in him , whose father was no noble man , albeit he be esteemed equall in vertues vnto the other : wherfore his nobility shall not bee so puissant and mightie . Which thou thy selfe didst affirme for true , when as to dissolue this argument ( if my memorie serue me well ) where Possidonio went about to proue that the magnificence and glory of a man , ought by reason to extend it selfe vnto his successors , thou didst confes , that if you were both equall in vertue , Possidonio his nobility shuld bee greater then thine : whereas contrarily in this thy new conclusion , thou dost not only make them equall , but the one in a higher degree , then the other : wherefore we ought to conclude , that he that is borne of noble parents is far more noble . And likewise I cannot easilie gather how this thy last reason doth well hang togither , by which thou wouldst proue that he is vvorthie of greater honor , who without any necessity , doth employ himselfe in vertuous actions , then hee that is forced therunto . For this thy maxime is true , that of euery worthy enterprise a mans recompence ought to bee so much the greater , as the detriment & hurt which may come vnto him in executing thereof . Now vvho so is borne of noble bloud , is worthy greater blame & dishonor , when he doth not maintain the nobility of his fore fathers , then the ignoble by birth : therfore in cōseruing it , he ought to haue greater reward . By which reasons these thy two last conclusions , doe in my iudgment remain somwhat the weaker . You take no smal matter vpon you M. Peter Anthony , answered Fabricio , if you seeke to boult out the troth of these your 2. propositions : for on both sides there may be spoken sufficiently ; the troth whereof I would gladly knowe , if it were so necessarie vnto our purpose , or if it were not so late . It cannot be late ( qd M. Peter Anthony ) yes ( qd y e whole company ) & so late as we shal not haue time to mount on horsback . How quickly is time slid avvay ( qd M. Peter Anthony ) you may see Possidonio , how you make the hours sooner to passe away then vve thought for : as for mee , I did verily beleeue wee might haue staied here a good vvhile , but seeing it is so , we wil for this euening let our riding alone . I do not care much for riding abroad answered Fabricio , let vs follow on our purpose , & there withall tur-towards Possidonio , he said . Worthy gentlemen , whatsoeuer thing is on earth , man iudgeth it either good , or euill , or holding a meane betvveene both . I demaund then Possidonio , in which of these three qualities thou wouldest place true nobilitie ? Not in the euil I trow , for then nobilitie should be euil . Nor in the mean , for then should it be somtimes good , and sometimes bad . Wee must then necessarily conclude , that it ought to be placed in that which is good . Consisting in that which is good , it must either be in the goods of the body , of fortune , or of the mind . If wee say that nobilitie consisteth in the goods of the body , as to be faire , to bee in health , or in the goods of Fortune , as in riches : it should then follow , that beautie , health , or riches ceasing , which 3. thinges are subiect to corruption , nobility would soone decay . We are then constrained to conclude , y t it consisteth in the goods of the mind , which are vertues , as long since I affirmed . Besides we haue to consider , whither nobility consisteth in riches , or in man. If thou saiest Possidonio , that it consisteth in riches , besides that which I haue long sithence alleadged , it should further follovv , that looke which way a mans wealth were caried , they being most noble , thither shuold his nobilitie goe , which ought in no wise to be vttered . VVe must then conclude , that it remaineth in man. Being in man , it is either by nature , or by purchace . If by nature , it followeth that we are all equally noble ; in asmuch as one man ( as I said vnto you ) was the beginner of all humane nature , of whom we are all descended , but that falleth not to be considered of . VVe will then say that it is gotten . But how is it purchased ? surely by the proper vertues of the mind , and not by any other means . These are the reasons Possidonio , which I doe alleadge in the behalfe of true nobilitie , doe they not seeme to be true ? Surely I cannot possiblie make the troth more plaine vnto thee , then I haue done to day . But seeing the sunne beginneth more and more to hide it selfe , I cannot as I would , follow my pretended purpose : Howbeit I will rest satisfied with that which I haue effectually spoken hitherunto : for I was not by anie necessitie constrained to say so muche . It onely remaineth for mee Possidonio to tell , to whom the ring ought to be adiudged , which I would willingly do , but that I know Nennio to be a iudge sufficient for a greater disputation then ours . And he may well in the wisdome of his vnderstanding discourse of the perfit qualitie , & noble condition of the ladie Virginia , by whom the ring which we desire was giuen . For she being most accomplished with vertue , of most noble behauiour , most worthy for her honour , it auaileth thee nothing to equall thy self vnto her in considering thy Nobilitie of bloud , or the quantitie of thy treasure : ( for thou maiest haue well vnderstood how much they make for Nobilitie . ) Nennio will likwise weigh her gentle words when she said : Let the most noble of you two take the ring , by the which shee did affirme that there was Nobilitie in both of vs , and yet that one was more noble then the other , and to the most noble she gaue it . In thee the Nobilitie of bloud concurring , caused by thy predecessors , in me the Nobilitie of mind , wrought by my owne vertues : It shall be an easie matter , not onlie for Nennio , but for any other of any common capacitie to decide a matter of so small moment . Howsoeuer it be , it seemeth now vnto me high time , to end my discourse : and albeit I could not vtter all that concerning this matter , which came into my conceit , and which might well haue been saide : neuerthelesse I will leaue off , as hauing contented my minde and quieted it especially reposing my self vpon the iust iudgment of him , who to morrow , or at any other time when hee shall see good , may determine this our controuersie . Of whom I haue had that reputation , and so doe still hold him , that although I had not alleaged the one half of these reasons , yet had they been sufficient , to come to the knowledge of the trueth of this our disputation . And moreouer , whosoeuer doth well consider what hath been spoken yesterday , and this day , on both sides , he shall find nothing else , but an vnbrideled kind of life , to combate with a moderate liuing ; Ignorance with knowledge ; dissolutenesse with modestie , vertue and honestie to fight against their contraries : and whether of those two sides doe bring most ornament , and Nobilitie vnto man , is easily to be iudged . They all knew , that Fabricio was come to the end of his discourse , and that he had nothing else to say : wherfore we all arising from our places , we went to take the aire , not on horsebacke , because the time was spent , but on foote , alongst the pleasant garden . And after that euerie one with his friend , had vttered his opinion concerning Fabricio his discourse , we parted ech from other , some this way , others that way : In the end wee all of vs except two , who still walked in the garden , the sweetnesse whereof we all enioyed , met vnder the fresh gallerie . These staied not long before that against their willes , they gaue vs occasion of no small pastime : For on the one side of the garden , there was a woode so thicke with high greene trees , that scarcely you could haue planted one more there . This thicket , where it ioyned to the garden , it was inuironed with a deepe ditch , which was drie without water : and on the other side closed in with the garden wall . Within there were nourished manie wild beasts , and towardes the garden , there was a little draw bridge to enter into it . These two young men , drawing downe the bridge , went in and simply left the bridge downe as they came forth , immediatly for feare of those that entred the wood , there issued out two yong kids , and a hart . And if the garden gates had not shut of themselues , y e beasts had been loste : which one of the seruants perceiuing , he so dainly called one of his fellowes , who brought a brase of dogges with him , which hee let slip at these wild beasts ; we being mooued with the crie of y e dogs , and noyse of the hunters , wee looked out at the windows which were next the garden , where we might see this vvar already begun , vvhich vvas pursued vvith an infinit pleasure of vs all . For vve might see them runne vvith great svviftnesse , the beasts flying , and the dogs follovving , but y e chiefest sport vvas , the many turnings in the garden , and the crooked alleies , by vvhich the beasts did fetch many a skip , & turne to saue their liues , from the deadly pinching of the dogs . And after they had some 3. or 4 ▪ times rounded the garden , the hart , y e bridge being yet cleane dovvn , & the gate open , vvith a light skip , got into the thicket again ; the kids follovved , & the dogs after , which one of the seruants perceiuing , he drew vp the bridge , least they shuld come out again . But longing after the sport , vve came down , vvith each of vs a cudgel in our hand , you may gesse vvhat these beasts did ( vvherof there vvas great store in the vvood ) vvhen they savv y e dogs follovv them . They ran euerie way , somtimes thorow y e thickest places , somtimes right forth : & vvhilest vve vvere intentiue after this sport , we might espy 3. seruants cōming out of y e vvood vvith the 2. kids , the hart ▪ & 2. yong hares , vvhich had been slain in this vvar . Wherefore imagining this pray to be sufficient after the ordinarie rate , after y t commandement was giuen to take vp the dogges , who were not yet out of breath : we came forth of the woode , and shortly after sate downe to supper according to our woonted order , where wee supped verie pleasantly , the winde blowing verie freshly vpon vs : after supper wee fell in talke of this sodaine hunting , which fell out vnlooked for . Wherein wee continued , vntill the starres were seene in the skie , hauing beforehand taken order that Nennio should the next day followe with his discourse at the same time that Possidonio , and Fabricio had done theirs , and then we entred into the house , where after we had walked a little , seeing it a fit houre to go to bed , the torches being lighted , vve vvere brought euerie one vnto his lodging . The third Booke . AS often as waighing with my selfe I consider , howe great the weakenes is which nature yeeldeth vnto mā , I cannot surely imagin whence it shoulde proceed , that al men what soeuer doe oftentimes feele a certaine motion of bloud , which spreadeth it selfe about the heart , when as they do only call to minde but the verie name of Nobilitie , which they possesse , and that much more , when they are told thereof by some other . Nay there are some , who without measure coueting that title , doe puffe vp their mindes , esteeming that to be the greatest fauour of all other . Other some there are ( without doubt of a more damnable opinion ) who are mounted vp to that height of pride , by the onely remēbrance likewise of that name , hauing no thought to the difficultie of the effect thereof , that they doe verilie perswade themselues ( such is the de●eiueable beliefe of mortall men ) that the whole worlde is at their commandement , and surely they deeme themselues to be equal to no other , then to God himselfe , and by this conceite they being led away , they despise all vertue ▪ Surely this doth draw me into great doubtes : For as I say , if I enter into consideration of mans weakenes , and do waigh wherof he is made , I see nothing therein , but vile filthinesse . And nature did not onely giue this vnto man at his first creation , but likewise in the dissolution of this mortall life , it made the same farre worse . Seeing that the weake and fraile members of man , as it is euident of it self , so soone as the spirit is separated from the bodie , how soone they are changed into wormes , into earth , & loathsom smels : O miserable life of man , and of short continuance ! But in truth this ought to be smally regarded ( although it be a great argument of y e frailty of man ) if we did note not only in the beginning , & the end of the life of man , but euen in the midst therof , matters of greater woonder , because we see that all thinges vnder the heauens , doe make continuall warre ech one against themselues , and all togither bid most cruell battaile against man alone . The aire oftentimes , is assailed with darcke cloudes , with flashing lightning , and threatning thunder , and all these are ordained to vexe man. The water against the fire . The fire against the water , and both togither do fight against man. Moist thinges against drie thinges , and drie thinges against moist , and both most and drie warre against man. The South striueth with the North and the other windes , and all of them togither blowing with great impetuositie , in the depth of the swelling seas , with great force do often deceiue y e vain affections of man. What shal I say more ? One man doth conspire against another . If then the life of man be after so strange a maner , wrapped in so many miseries , and in so many dangers ; I cannot wel imagine what cause he hath to wax so proud , with this title of Nobilitie , which is giuen him . And as for my selfe , I know not els what I should say vnto you , but that such men being on high lifted vp with a superfluous desire of glory , do let thēselues be carried away with their vaine appetites , like vnto a bird which flying in the aire hath no assurance . O foolish Nobilitie , if so we ought to call it , or rather deceitfull shadow . For we are not able to comprehend what aid this Nobilitie ( no lesse desired then reuerenced of mortal men ) may bring vs : for asmuch as it neither bringeth wisedome , nor knowledge , incomparable gifts , which are sent vs from God , neither doth it make vs more iust , or more prudent , which are qualities that consist in the soule . It may be that it is an aide vnto the body ? No surely in my opinion , for it doth not giue neither greater beautie , nor greater strength , nor greater grace thereunto : by all which reasons we may easily gather into how great errour these maner of men doe so foolishly fall . Yet will I not say , but that sometimes Nobilitie , is cause of great good , as it is indeed , when it is true Nobilitie : but that which at this day beareth sway in y e most part of men , is not onely cause of any good , but contrarilie of great euill . For if we would without imagination , passe thorow all the Cities that are in the world , we shuld find very few , or it may be none at al , where there are not factions , & diuisions between gent. and the common sort , from whence afterwards do bud hatred , quarrels , & so many murthers as we may heare of euery where . Amongst many histories , I might here recite to you , how y e people of Rome , by reason of y e discords which did arise between y e Patriciens & them , often abandoned y e city , & made their abode in y e hil called Mount Sacro , vntil Meneuius Agrippa made peace betwixt thē . Experiēce hereof hath not bin only seen in forrain cities , of which I coulde bring you infinite examples , but euen in our owne , within these few yeares : I say then , that as one sort of Nobilitie is the cause of euill , so is the other of good . Howsoeuer it be , I do wholly referre my selfe to the iudgement of Nennio , who this day shal take vpon him the whol discourse : And it may be by good means he will agree ( as it is commonly his custome ) the disaccording opinions of Possidonio , and Fabricio , which by the two former bookes , you may haue particularly vnderstoode . And so much the more it will delight vs to heare him , as their opinions doe seeme vnto vs to bee cleane contrarie , by meanes whereof likewise we shall heare the determining of the question propounded : wherfore inasmuch as I purpose not to intermingle my words with his , tempering my speech hereafter , I will indeuour without diminishing any word , orderly to set downe that which he discoursed , as much as the meannesse of my wit , will giue me leaue . By this time there was no starre seene in the skie , because the sunne had alreadie chased the moist shadow of the night from of the earth , and with his shining brightnesse , euery part of our hemisphere was enlightned , and the birds merrily chirping from the top of the greene branches , gaue good witnesse , that the morning was come , when as both men , and women , being risen , after praiers was ended , mounted on horsebacke , and being entred into delightfull medowes , they softly paced on treading the greene grasse vnder their feet , vntil it seemed vnto them high time to draw back againe . Wherfore they being returned , & shortly after set at table , they fed togither with great mirth , and contentment , & dinner being don , som went to play at eschets , others at tables , & som to take their rest , as seemed best vnto thē . But the middle of y e day being come , they assēbled thēselues after their accustomed maner in y t place whereas Possidonio & Fabricio had the 2. former daies , made their discourse . And by this time Nennio beeing readie , they sat down vvithout order round about him : vvho beholding the companie , and seeing them all attentiue , vvithout any further staie , gaue beginning to his discourse in these wordes . I did consider hovv hard a thing it is , to laie a heauier burden on a mans backe then his forces are able to beare ; in asmuch as it sildome happeneth but that the one of them doth thorovv vveakenesse fall to y e ground . And therefore I feared greatlie , that the like this daie should not happen to my selfe . Seeing that if I doe on the one side weigh the deapth of the question that is propounded , or the difficultie of those thinges that might thereupon be spoken : or on the other side the vveakenesse of my vnderstanding , the feeblenes of my memorie , togither vvith my young yeares , certainlie not I onelie , but euerie one may in himselfe iudge the inequalitie of these things . Whereupon it might easilie come to passe , that I my selfe , contrarie to my intent , and you , should remain vnsatisfied , & the matter vvherupon vve are to discourse , should not be sufficientlie opened vnto you . But sitting in the midst of so louing a companie , where there are men of better wit , and grauer iudgment then my selfe ; and being moreouer constrained by you , by my iudgement to make peace betweene these tvvo champions , I dare not refuse so waightie a matter , though my forces be ouerweake , because I assure my selfe , that vvhere I shal shew my selfe feeble or vvanting , that you wil take order to adde a supplie thereunto , and if so bee that I faile , you wil hold me excused , & impute it to my yoūg yeares . And if you heare any good thing come from me , I doubt not but you will giue mee fauourable hearing . Wherfore my courage taking strength from this ground , I will not iudge it inequall vnto the burthen which I beare , and vnder his fauour who fauourably giueth succour vnto mortall men , I will by little and little begin my discourse . Worthy company . The two opinions which were these two daies now past at large related , by Fabricio , and Possidonio , are manifest vnto you , which you haue wel vnderstood how different they are . For the one prooueth Nobility to consist in bloud , and in riches , and the other in the vertues of the mind . Hee denying bloud and riches , to be any thing necessarie : the other , that learning and knowledge needed not therein . In this wise they did inlarge their discourse , alledging and reprouing many arguments , which both the one and the other side did make shewe vnto the hearers to bee probable : so that scarsely it may be discerned , which of them draweth nearer the troth . Yet to boult out the troth of this controuersie , before we passe any further , to shew what that true nobility is which we seeke for , which can very hardly be done , bicause it is of so many different kinds . One sort therof is deriued from the glory of the bloud of our ancestors , accompanied with riches , of the which Possidonio spake sufficientlie the other day . An other sort proceedeth from the vertues of the mind , and of this Fabricio discoursed yesterdaie , with as great sharpnesse of wit as need to be . Of these tvvo mingled togither , and concurring in one subiect , is produced another sort , which I wil name compounded nobility . To these two may be added another kind which is called ciuill nobility . Before then y t we come to determine our disputation , wee will first see the substance of euery one of these sorts of nobility , and I will begin with that which Possidonio defended . Nobility of bloud ( worthy Gentlemen ) is no other thing but a certaine quality which is deriued from the bloud of our auncestors , and continued in their lavvfull posterity , and by how much it is more auncient , by so much is it accounted more worthy amongst the vulgar sort : and albeit there be diuers degrees of this nobility of bloud ( the one of great men , in the number of which are those that are simple barons : the other of greater personages , as Earles , Marquesses , Dukes , & such like , a third in the highest degree of supremacy aboue the rest , as of kinges and Emperours ) yet notwithstanding I vvill onely intreat of the moste inferiour degree ; to vvit , of the nobility of those , vvho possesse neither Earledomes , nor Baronies , as it fell out in the disputation betvveene Possidonio and Fabricio , leauing al the other vnspoken of . But like as a man can hardly staie his feete vppon a turning vvheele , so with as great difficultie may hee make any abode vpon this nobility , by reason that on what side soeuer I turne my selfe , I shall finde it more wauering and inconstant , then the leafe which vvithout any stay , is tost and blovvne heere and there with the wind . For so diuers and of many fashions is the beleefe of men , touching the beginning and obseruance thereof , that we can scarsly discerne whether it bee Nobilitie , or rusticity . Insomuch as that manner of life , vvhich vve see is vsed by our gentlemen to conserue themselues in their nobility , and which the vulgar sort dooth repute to bee good , it may be in some other citie it wil not be accounted rusticity , the customes beeing different , and theirs Nobilitye : and the like estimation will wee holde of others . We see that in the famous and lordlie cittie of Naples , that marchandize is separated from the exercise of noblemen , they agreeing therin with the Thebanes , who in like maner did despise marchandize , and by publike decree did ordaine , that no marchant shoulde execute any publike office , within the city of Thebes , except he had left off the trade of marchandize the space of ten yeares : VVhich is cleane contrarie in the rich , and magnificent citie of Venice , where not onlie those of the baser sort , but noblemen likewise , and such as are of the number of their Senators , do vse marchandize , for the which they expose their liues to a thousande dangers , & wel-nigh coast the whole world . The worthinesse of the bloud of their predecessors , maketh a distinction betweene the noble and ignoble , and not their maner of vocation . You may see how that kind of life , which is accustomed amongst the noble men of Venice , is reputed rusticitie and vile amongst the gentlemen of Naples , vvho hold their nobilitie as good , whereas the Magnificos of Venice doe esteeme theirs perfect , and the Neapolitans bad . What conformitie doe we finde between the gentlemen of Rome , and the Florentines : or betweene those of Millan , and the gentlemen of Genoua ? Surelie such as the former . And how manifestlie the meanes to conserue the nobilitie of statelie France , doe differ from that of renowmed and noble Italie , I thinke there are few vvhich doe not knovve it : Forsomuch as the gentlemen of France & of other countries , do liue vpon their lands , and hold it for rusticitie to dvvel in tovvnes , & contrarily in Italie , we leaue the countrie for clowns to inhabite , and gentlemen doe commonlie dwell in tovvnes . It is a woonderfull thing to consider that if a man do turne his thought into any part of the vvorlde whatsoeuer , he shal finde no countrey inhabited with men where this nobilitie of bloud , and this difference betvvene noblemen and those of the baser sort , is not : and yet notwithstanding scarse is there any nation , who both in the beginning and in the conseruation thereof , doe agree the one with the other . For some do deem him noble ( and none other ) who honoureth himselfe with the beames that doe shine from his ancestors , placing true nobility only in bloud . Some doe affirme that he is only noble , who is indued with great riches , albeit he haue no sparke of noble bloud in him . Others say , it consisteth iointly in bloud and riches . Others make themselues and their posterity noble , in following the war , applying the same with all their indeuour , albeit ( in the opinion of some men ) they doe descend but of base parentage . Besides , some doe hold for certaine , that this true nobility consisteth in those , vvho doe vvholy dispose themselues in the seruice of kings and princes , and of such as depend of them , as if the true glory of nobilitie did spring from thence . This especially is obserued amongst noblemen , and shewed by great traine of seruants , by rich and statelie apparell , and by a certaine liberall kind of life in all their actions . Others doe deeme that he liueth most nobly and most Lordlike , who besides the properties aforesaide , hath great store of horses to serue him . There are yet others , who do affirme that to keepe houndes and Hawkes , and such sorts of beasts , and euery day to be a hunting , is an exercise and life aboue all other most fit for a Gentleman . Others do deeme , that they maintaine their nobility well , in liuing idlie , and vsing nothing else but gaming . Some doe thinke , that they lead a very honorable life if they liue honestly and moderately . Some imagine that Nobility is to liue in the countrey , as I saide vnto you , some to dwell in a towne . Some thinke it to consist in marchandize ; others are of a contrary opinion , that a noble man ought not to vse the trade of marchādize . But who can reckon vp the diuers sorts of nobility ? seeing that not onely amongst diuers nations wee finde , hovv different this nobility of bloud is , as well in the beginning thereof , as in the vse thereof : but euen amongst those of the same countrey . For albeit that in France , and elsewhere , such is the custome , as I haue related vnto you : notwithstanding in Gallia Belgica in the prouince of Lionois , in Gascoine , and about Narbonne , and in other places in France , there are aboue three hundred sortes of life , for the conseruation of their nobility , not conformable the one with the other . We see likevvise the very same in the people of Spain , because the inhabitants of Arragon doe not equallie obserue the same meanes to maintaine their nobilitie as those of the kingdome of Grenado , of Castillia , of Catalonia , of Biscay , of Nauarre , or of Gallicia do , much lesse they of the kingdome of Portingall . What conformity is there betweene the Britons , the Normans , and the Fleminges ? What agreement betweene either the high or lowe Germaine , and the inhabitants of Saxony ? Surely none at all , because the nobilitie of one Nation is diuerslie distinguished from an other . And if we will enter into discourse of the inhabitants of the higher and lower Hungarie , of England , of Austria , of Bauaria , of Valachia , or of the great and lesser Polonia , of Russia , of Muscouia , of Lithuania , we shall not find amongst those Nations , no nor scarse particularly amongst themselues any certaine meanes from whence the Nobility of bloud dooeth spring : nor any certain maner of life , amongst the gentlemen which dooth agree togither . And not onely in the west and Northren partes , but likewise in the Easterly and Southerly , we see they doe vse such diuersitie of nobility . Forsomuch as those of that countrey we call Greece , doe esteeme the life of their Gentlemen , to be the true and proper life fitte for Gentlemen : whereas the Inhabitantes of the Greeke Ilands doe iudge it but bad . VVhat resemblance of Nobility is there betweene the people of Syria , of Capadocia , of Armenia , of Mesopotamia , of Media , of Persia , of Parthia , and of a number of other prouinces ? and returning to those vvho dwel in the partes of Afrike , we finde that they hold this nobility in great account , but the qualities and the meanes which they vse to conserue it , are different : because the people of Mauritania are not conformable amongste themselues : nor the people of Getulia , nor of Libia Cirenensis , nor likewise they who dwell in Aegypt , or in both the prouinces of Aethiopia ▪ or in the habitable countreyes of Arabia , or of India , amongst whom ( albeit that in other respects they bee a monstrous and cruell nation ) yet haue they this diuersitie of nobility . But vvhy doe I thus recken vppe the habitable parts of the Worlde ? For to conclude , you shall finde this diuersitie of the beginning and exercising of Nobilitie of bloud so great , not as there are whole nations , but as there are people and Tovvnes in the world . And that I may not wander into places so farre off , vve may see the same in Italy , where there is no towne which I can name vnto you , which is conformable vnto another , in the first originall and vse of this nobility : if then the beginning and exercise thereof , bee not one and the same , but different in euery place , how is it possible for me to tell which is the best and most commendable sort thereof ? Yet haue I the hart to conclude this necessarilie , that there is no certaintie in the beginning and vse of this kind of nobilitie , for if there were , it should carrie with it constantnesse and stabilitie , from the which it should take beginning , and by the which it should equallie conserue it selfe in euery country . Scarce was Nennio come to the conclusion of his discourse , when as maister Peter Anthonie , turning towardes him , said merilie vnto him after this maner . Nennio , if thou bearest any respect vnto mee , staie there ; for albeit that it hath been very pleasing vnto vs , to heare of so many fashions of nobilitie , and of so many diuers customs , as those of the countries which thou didst alleadge : yet notwithstanding this thy laste conclusion which thou diddest necessarily gather , doth not follovv so easilie as I think . For although that at Rome , at Venice , at Naples and elsewhere , the customes bee changed ( as thou sayst ) and the maner of nobilitie , yet doth it not follow for all that , that there is no certaintie thereof . For in Naples it is certaine , and this sort of nobilitie which is accustomed amongst the gentlemen , is most constantly maintained there ; so likewise at Venice , at Rome , and in euery other place . And it is to no purpose to say that they are contrarie , for neither at Naples , nor elsewhere , shalt thou finde any contrarietie in the obseruance of their nobility . Likewise if so it were , it would follow that the one should be nobility , and the other rusticity : by which thou mayst certainlie iudge , that there is certainty in this nobility . As for example , we see that at Venice , the same lawes , or the same statutes , are not obserued , which are at Naples and at Rome ; for they doe varie , as they may best fit and agree with the places : and yet doe they seeme cleane contrarie the one to the other : howbeit amongst the lawes and statutes of Venice there is no contrarietie , although they agree not , but are cleane different from those of Naples . Shall wee therefore say that they are not al lawes ? yes surely that they are : Euen so may we say of all these kindes of Nobilitie , which albeit that either they doe seeme , or are indeed contrarie the one to the other , yet doe they not leaue the name of Nobilitie . M. Peter Anthonie had no sooner ended his speech , but Nennio replied after this maner . This certaintie of Nobilitie , which you would haue M. Peter Anthonie , if wee consider thereof in a separate place by it selfe , as it seemeth you doe , that is true which you say : Whereas I affirme , that in the whole world , there is no certaintie of Nobilitie , for the great diuersitie that is therein , by the which you may easily discerne which is either more or lesse perfect , then the other : forasmuch as we finde not anie one sorte of nobilitie , aboue mentioned , which bringeth an approoued reason for the beginning therof , or that the life and exercise of noblemen be reasonably grounded vpon any certaine foundation : but I finde them to consist in obseruation without anie ground , whereof I can giue you no other reason , but that the vulgar sort haue after their owne will so appointed it , the like whereof doth not happen in lawes , which although they seeme or doe differ the one from the other , they doe all notwithstanding carrie a reason for their ground : so that this your similitude can hardly hold , this nobilitie being without any certain principle , and without any determinate meanes . M. Peter Anthonie made no other reply vnto his answere , as if he had been thorowly satisfied therwith : wherefore he preparing to follow on his discourse : M. Dominico breaking off his speech , said thus . Albeit that in the defence of Nobilitie of bloud ( worthie gentlemen ) manie reasons haue been produced the other day , both by Possidonio and our selues , by the which we went about to proue , that it was true and perfect , to the which Fabricio afterwards to shew that his Nobilitie , and not that which Possidonio held for , was true and perfect , did with subtile reasons brauelie make answere thereto , and by his argumentes force himselfe to perswade vs , that such kinde of Nobilitie was not anie way to be held of any accompt . Yet notwithstanding , before wee passe anie further , and before you giue any iudgement thereof Nennio : I will not forbeare in confirmation of the first opinion of Possidonio , with new reasons , which now come to my remembrance , to shewe you , that the Nobilitie of bloud , conioyned with riches , as a speciall gift comming from God , ought not onely to be had in estimation , but likewise to be reuerenced . And if it seemeth vnto thee Fabricio , that in alleadging new reasons , I should renewe the enterprise begun , letting the discourse of Nennio , let not that displease thee ▪ for it is not meete that any of our reasons should cause the iudge to be silent , whose wisedome I am sure will thoroughly resolue thereof , though wee propose sundrie argumentes which shall happen into our remembrance , whether it be against thee , or in thy fauour . It shall please me well that thou returne to discourse of the nobilitie of Possidonio : for if I be permitted to answere aswell as thou to propound , I doubt not , but that I shal refute thy arguments as I haue done the rest , and that thereby the conceit of the iudge , shal be more resolued , and the end of the discourse sooner brought to passe . Say on then that , which thy memorie will giue thee leaue . M. Dominico proceeded in this maner . The great Prophet Dauid , hauing vpon his resounding harpe , with sweete accents song a diuine dittie to the praise of his mercie , who was his creator , he afterwards framed another , in the which by the prophet it is manifestly seene , that the Nobilitie of bloud in man is permitted of God , which with his owne seed is transfused vnto his lawfull heires , when as hee saith in these words : That powerfull and abundant shal his seede be on earth , and that honour , glorie , and riches , shal be in his posteritie . You see how they honour the glorie of man , which is no other thing then that vvhich vve terme Nobilitie , continued in his posteritie . Thou seest likewise Fabricio , how that riches are ioyned togither vvith Nobilitie : for the Prophet doth in such sort offer them ioyntly togither , that it seemeth that the glorie and Nobilitie of man shoulde be altogither imperfect , if it vvere depriued of riches . Whereunto notvvithstanding thou vvouldest in no wise consent . And it woulde auaile thee nothing if thou vvouldest say , that y e prophet vvas lifted vp into a heauenlie contemplation , he coulde not offer temporall , but spirituall and eternall riches , and so vvee ought to take this text alleaged spiritually . For if wee vvoulde vnderstand it in this maner , it shoulde bee plaine agaynst his meaning , not so muche in regard , that he sayth expressely , he ought to be powerfull on earth , and mightie in the seed of man , and not in heauen , as for that in the same song he afterwardes pursueth spirituall goodes , which man may obtain ; so that necessarily we ought to vnderstand it of temporall goods . Likewise it appeareth manifestly by the same scripture ( which as you knowe ought in no wise to bee transgressed ) that nobilitie doth descend from our auncestors . And likewise I remember to haue read in that booke ( wherein the heauenly instructions of the life of man are diuinely handled ) a text which sheweth plainly , that the glorie and nobilitie of the sonne , doth depend of the honour of the father , who if he be depriued thereof , the sonne likewise shal be dishonoured . Thou seest how the nobilitie , and ignobilitie of man descendeth from his auncestors , as Possidonio affirmed . And in another place the same authour charitably doth admonish vs , that we are to praise no man before his death , because he is knowne in his children , intending thereby , that the honor and glorie of man , remaineth with his posteritie after his departure out of this life . Truely Fabricio , these are authorities , which can hardly be auoided , besides the which I coulde yet alleadge an infinite number like vnto these . M. Dominico was no sooner come to the end of his speech , but Fabricio like vnto a braue warriour , who left nothing vntried , which might serue for resistance , and his owne defence , opposing himselfe against him , said thus . These your authorities , M. Dominico , are not so hard to be withstood , as it seemeth at the first they are : for if we rest vpon the litterall sentence , I doe not denie but the prophet vnderstandeth that which you say , but I know that you are not ignorant , that it is necessarie for vs that are christians , to expound the holie scripture , not according vnto the sound of the wordes , least wee easily incur the like blame which the obstinate Iewes ( against their wils ) fell into , but according to the spiritual sence . King Dauid then ( intending by his comfortable song , to persuade man that he should be happy if he feared God in his commandements ) what blessings did he offer him ? Children , honour , and riches , perhaps , but not certainlie : for the rewarde of those vvho feare God , is to abound in earthly thinges . But hovve many Priestes and Monkes are there vvhich are depriued of children , and of the honour of the world ? How many are there , who in hermitages doe liue an austere kinde of life ? How many begging Friers are there , wanting wealth ? And how many are there , who haue vowed their chastitie to God for the beleefe they haue in him ? Certainly the number is infinit . And notwithstanding , they haue byn iudged worthie of Gods fauour , and numbred amongst saints . So I doe iudge him to feare God more , who holdeth his virginity deare , and offereth the same vnto him with a free hart . Who flyeth from the honors and vanities of the worlde , and distributeth his goodes to the poore . The workes of mercy then , are the seed of the merciful man , and of him that feareth God , and not his children , which seed shal be mighty on earth as is promised . And he who for the feare of God , shal despise the honor and riches of the world , without doubt he shall obtain celestial glory with eternall riches : In like sort ought we to vnderstand the last authority alleadged by you , which seemeth to intende , that man is knovvn in his children : for hardly shal we know him that departeth this world , without leauing any issue . We shal know him indeed in his children , that is to say , by his fruits , for if he hath sowne good fruite , in this mortall life , vve may certainly iudge , that he shall receiue better fruite in the life to come . To the other text I ansvvere : that the author in his booke , discoursing of precepts ( no lesse full of Diuinitie then comfort ) admonisheth vs ( amongst other thinges ) that vve take good heed , that we boast not of our fathers shame , because our glory dependeth on the honor of our father . Intending thereby ( according vnto reason ) to teach vs , y t vvho so mocketh his father , mocketh himselfe . And that is true in it selfe , but not that which the soūd of his words shevveth vnto vs. Maister Dominico did perceiue that Fabricio had nothing else to say in his defence , & did willingly receiue his answer , which he had made on the suddaine , which vvas so much the more pleasing vnto the company , as forsaking the exposition of the letter , he drew neere to the sence of the troth . But Nennio ( as one to vvhome the troth of their propositions and answeres vvas vvell knowne ) was not pleased that any of them should intermeddle in answering and replying . Wherefore passing on further , he entered in this maner to his discourse againe . Howsoeuer it be Fabricio , this nobilitie of bloud , by the vulgar sort is helde in the highest estimation aboue any other : forsomuch as they doe repute those to bee true Noblemen , who are descended of a noble familie , so that if any mention be made amongste them of Nobilitie , they vnderstand not nobilitie of mind , but nobilitie of bloud . Which maketh great in fauour of Possidonio , for this vvord Noble , beeing simplie spoken by the courteous Lady , seeing that we are in doubt thereof , we ought to take it as it is receiued by the common voice . But that I may no longer intertaine you heere with Possidonio , we will passe on with Fabricio , to the other sort of nobility , for the which hee hath plaide the stout warriour . That is not like vnto the former esteemed of any worth , by the vulgar sort , but by men of learning , and such as are well brought vppe , it is highlie accounted of , and greatly reuerenced , and it consisteth in the vertues of the mind . For nobility of the minde , is no other thinge , but a shining brightnesse which proceedeth from vertue , which maketh them famous and Noble that are possessed therewith , of the excellencie and perfection whereof howe amplie Fabricio didde discourse , is wel knowne vnto you : for in discoursing thereof yesterday , with such argumentes as came into his mind , he intertained vs vntill the euening . And surely I finde it neither so diuers , nor so changeable , nor so vnconstant as the other , but it is alwaies , and euery where , after one fashion , certaine and stable . It onely taketh beginning from vertue , and with good and vertuous actions is conserued . Whereupon some doe call it perfect nobilitie , because it standeth in neede neither of bloud , nor of the riches of other men . How may that be ( quoth one of the Ladies of the company ) who with a witty readinesse opposed her selfe against him ) that it needeth not riches , seeing that they are not onely necessary vnto the nobility of bloud , but to this likewise , whereof you speake , as it seemeth vnto me . For as Possidonio did the other day relate vnto vs , no man can attaine vnto any degree of vertue or nobilitie , except riches doe make a breach and vvaie vnto him . And who knoweth not , that if any wise or learned man , for want of wealth went ill apparailed , that hee should not be accounted as a noble man ? You may see then how riches are necessary vnto the Nobility of the mind . The young Lady hauing ended hir speech , Nennio made this answer vnto her . Put case Madam that it were true , that a man cannot attaine vnto vertue or nobility , without riches , notwithstanding I speake not of the meanes to become noble : for according as you consider them , riches are nothing else , but the meanes by the which the will of man is put in execution : but it is of nobility it selfe , that I talk . For after that man hath innobled his mind with vertue , and driuen from thence all vice , what neede hath hee of riches ? What hurt receiueth he if he couer not his body , if it be not set foorth with gorgeous apparell ? it may be Madam , that a meane , honest , and modest attyre , doth not onely amongst the better sort of men , but euen amongst the common people , giue no lesse grace to one that is become noble , in this maner , then an imbrodered , lasciuious , and laced garment , doth set forth your noble man of the other sort . So that if we will effectually comprehend the true essence of man , and with a right eie consider his qualities , he should cast off all his habilitie , depriue himselfe of honour , forsake the goodes of fortune , lay aside his costly apparell , and so we ought to beholde naked , not his body , but his mind , of what calling soeuer he be of , as Diogenes and others did , of whome Fabricio didde speake yesterday . Thus shall we know whether hee bee noble , or ignoble ; good or euill , if in regard of his Nobilitie , he hath need of that which is his own , or of that which other men possest : when we see him not vainlie set forth with faire apparell , and rich pompe , wee shal deeme him noble : for if a stocke , in forme of a man , were clad with them , should wee iudge it noble ? whosoeuer woulde thinke so , had no iudgement of a man. Which wise Themistocles did plainly teach vs Madam , who being asked to whom he would giue his daughter to wife , whether to a man adorned with vertue , but poore ; or to a rich man destitute of vertue : he said , I had rather a man wanting wealth , then riches that had neede of a man. I say then , that riches are to no vse vnto him , whose minde is indued with nobilitie , so that he be not wholly depriued of them ; for hee shoulde rather want meate , then apparell . But returning to our purpose , I doe consider , that he in whose reuerence all liuing creatures doe humbly bowe themselues , hauing created the earth , only in giuing it being , he bountifully beautified it with diuers plants ( as wee may see euery where ) vnto the which ( besides their being ) he gaue nothing els but life . Afterwards he created those liuing creatures , which we call brute , or vnreasonable , the which doe farre and neere walke in the sea , in the earth , and in the aire , and to them he gaue life and sence . Finally , God framed man vnto his likenesse , to whom he graunted not onely being , life , and sence ; but he added reason therunto , which is a peculiar gift vnto man. Man being then partaker of all these qualities , in which of them shall we place true Nobilitie ? certainly not in being , nor in life ( for that should be common with the earth and with the plantes . ) Much lesse in sence ( for then should we make brute beastes noble . ) Wherfore we will then necessarily say , that true and perfect nobilitie of man , consisteth only in that part , which maketh man different from beastes ; and that is reason , by the which he is called a reasonable creature , and the other vnreasonable , as I said vnto you . He then who leadeth this mortall life swaruing from reason , is not to be accompted nor called Noble , albeit that he descende of noble bloud : For albeit he hath the outward shape of a man , being depriued of the most Noble part , which God hath giuen vnto man ( I meane reason ) he remaineth without doubt to be reckoned amongst vnreasonable creatures , and to be compared vnto beasts : which being not partakers of reason , doe leade their life according as their sence teacheth them . And who knoweth not this , that man casting away so noble a gift , can neuer attaine vnto the soueraigne Nobility of his last end ? Hee then that submitteth the operations of his minde vnto reason , and knoweth well howe to distinguish it from sensualitie is a right and perfit gentleman . M. Peter Anthonie taking the speech vpon him , said thus : Seeing that it is lawful for vs with new reasons to fortifie either side of the defendants , I will not forbeare to let you heare , that which I haue called to mind , in fauor of Fabricio , which being said , he proceeded in this maner . Hereby worthy gentlemen , is shewed the excellency of the nobilitie of the mind , that one thing is more noble and excellent then another , by how much the subiect thereof is excellent and Noble : Nowe the subiect of this Nobilitie , is farre more noble and worthie then the nobilitie of bloud , because it proceedeth of vertues : therefore the nobilitie of the minde is much more excellent and noble then the nobilitie of bloud . And not onely in consideration of the subiect , it is more perfect then the other , but likewise in the regard of the obiect , because it is alwaies seene to remaine in a more worthie and vertuous obiect ; that is to say , in a man well borne , prudent and wise . Whereas the other may be in a most vile obiect . Forasmuch as if of noble bloud , a foolish , or mad child be ingendred : notwithstanding amongst the vulgar sort , he is accompted one among●t noble men . How manie are there sprong of a worthie familie , who become robbers in the high way , murtherers , theeues , slaunderers , and finally enemies to themselues ? Ought we to accompt such noblemen , because they descend of noble parents ? God forbid , for considering the vilenesse of their mind , they ought to be iudged not only ignoble , but more base and abiect , then any other vnreasonable creature , although that the common sort being deceiued , doe hold them in the rancke of noblemen . What nobilitie shall wee accompt that woman to be of , who drawing her nobilitie from a worthy stocke , doth repute her selfe noble , and notwithstanding making small accompt of her honor , doth villanously giue her bodie and life in pray , to delight those to whom shee ought not to haue yeelded ? What Nobilitie is there in those children , who in their swadling cloutes descended of a noble stocke , are no sooner come into the world , but they are esteemed of noble bloud , and yet are neither capable of vertue nor reason ? surely none at all . You may then perceiue , in considering both the subiect , and the obiect of the nobilitie of the minde , howe great likewise the excellencie , and the perfection thereof is . And to proceede further vpon this matter : I finde that euen Fortune sometimes hath her part in this Nobilitie of bloud , co●ioyned with riches : for if my selfe and you were ●orne of a Noble familie , and those of base parentes , or that wee be by birth riche , and they poore , vvhat glorie , vvhat Nobilitie , vvhat praise , ought we to attribute to our selues ? and vvhat profite , or what fault , ( or rather what defect ) are vve to impute vnto them ? Truely none at all ; seeing that they haue committed no offence , and we are not aduaunced thorow our riches . The glorie then , and the fault ought to bee attributed vnto fortune , whoe gouerneth worldly matters , as it pleaseth her , and not vnto vs : whereas the Nobilitie of the mind , is not in subiection , nor slauerie ; but free , and out of all humaine perill : and he vvhich by his ovvn vertues , becommeth noble , shall haue the honour , and the glorie thereof , and not fortune , nor his auncestors , nor any other whosoeuer . Here M. Peter Anthony broke off his speech without saying anie more . Wherefore Nennio taking the discourse vpon him , said thus . Certainly to fortifie this side , concerning the nobilitie of the minde , no lesse delightfull , then true reasons do stil offer themselues ; as amongst others , that which I novv remember : forasmuch as I esteeme that hee ought to be adiudged perfit , vvho hath no need of any other : novv the nobilitie of the minde is of that sort , therefore it is perfit . The like vvhereof cannot be saide of the Nobilitie of bloud : for if it vvere perfit , it should haue no need of riches , vvhich ( according to thy saying the other day Possidonio ) are not onely an ornament , but a part of Nobilitie . Which is more then true : for nowe adaies , a man can hardly conuerse amongst gentlemen and great Lords , but that he shal be mocked of euerie one , if hee be not rich , and hath not vvherevvithall to spend of his ovvne , or at the least if he be not vvell clad in apparell : vvhich thinges are in this our age not smally set by . It follovveth then , that bloud is not sufficient of it selfe alone , to make a perfect nobleman . And we cannot with reason name that perfect nobilitie , which proceedeth from thence , as being subiect to that which is verie incōstant . Wherfore we will say , that if the noble man by birth wanteth riches , he shall likewise want nobilitie : which conclusion Possidonio thou diddest affirme in thy discourse to be true . And in truth it is come to passe at this day , when as the noble born doth excercise some craft , or handiworke , that is vile and derogating from nobilitie : But how poore soeuer a man is , that is born of noble bloud , I would not iudge that he should become ignoble , thorow pouertie , albeit that he had not the same renowne , and reputation , with men of this age , as he that is both noble and rich . Herehence it commeth , that manie descending of a high linage , giuing themselues to some vile exercise , haue darckned , and wholly lost their nobilitie , so that they are no more esteemed of the bloud of Noble men , but reckoned amongst the cōmon sort . Herehence it proceedeth likewise , that amongst manie being of one familie , some are reputed noble , and others ignoble . You may see then , howe corporall and base exercise , doth bring contempt vnto the nobility of bloud , and conuert it into his contrarie . We must then conclude , that vertue only is necessarie therein . For a noble man by bloud , who is depriued of vertue , is made no otherwise , then as a sepulchre of white marble , inriched with fine gold , which at the first shewe is pleasant to the sight of those , that behold it : but considering afterwards the rotten body , and filthy stinch , that is within it , it seemeth vnto them hideous and horrible . Such a one is hee who is descended of noble bloud , for at the first sight he seemeth gratious , & pleasing , but looking afterwards to the foule corruption of his maners , and to the default of the gifts of his mind , by which he shuld become worthie , neither this grace , nor the pleasure which was found therein , is anie more seene , but in steede thereof basenesse , and deepe contempt . Whereof hee may be called noble in apparance by the which the common people ( whose eyes are blinded , that they cannot see the trueth ) doe lightly iudge , and holde him as a noble man , which is farre different from him , whose minde is fraught with vertues , because that hee holdeth not an apparance of true Nobilitie , but the verie essence thereof . Nennio made no staie , but still followed on his discourse , when as the Ladie Camilla who was desirous to heare an end of their controuersie ( which it maie be shee gathered by the last wordes vttered by Nennio ) turning towards him , with a prettie grace , according to her woont , and yet with somewhat a hastie spirite , shee saide these wordes vnto him . Thou concludest alreadie Nennio , that Possidonio is he that shall loose the wager , seeing that his nobilitie is apparant , and not true . You are verie hastie Madame ( quoth Nennio ) to desire to heare the sentence before time require , and before the rest of the companie : for in that discourse which nowe we doe make to approoue , or disallow of the two sortes of Nobilitie , both the one and the other opinion is fortified , as you may haue vnderstoode , with more pregnant reasons , so much there wanteth that I intend not as yet so soone to descend to the determining of the question , seeing that wee haue so great time lefte vs. Let it not then displease you to staie a little , and to hearken vnto mee . Both to staie and to heare you likewise , shall please me well , aunswered the young Ladie : but yet it seemed vnto me that you intended as much as I saide vnto you . Nennio replied : Madame , I pray you haue patience a little , and be attentiue vnto my speeche , vntill I haue ended it : for I doubt not , but you shall with the rest be satisfied with my iudgement . The yong ladie being appeased , Nennio taking the discourse vpon him , began to speake in this wise . Nobilitie of bloud indeed is apparant , but hee which is depriued of vertue , is hardly esteemed to shine amongst men , vvith the glorie of his bloud onely , vvhich commonly bringeth forth ignorance , wherevpon followeth aftervvardes contemptible pride . For so soone as the light of mans vnderstanding is occupied vvith ignoraunce , vvhereby it is let , that it cannot enter into the trueth of thinges , man cannot consider , that anie is more wise , or more learned then himselfe , but becommeth proude , in suche sorte that thorough ignorance , hee is made bold , insolent , and rashe , easily contemning all maner of vertue , of science , and of manners , groping in the darke , like vnto a blinde man. Of which companie it seemeth , that the worlde at this daie , is but too plentifull , seeing that euerie where yee shall finde those who foolishlie deeme themselues to bee mounted to the highest degree of Nobilitie , whereas indeede , they are at the lowest step therof , in that they haue no care to innoble themselues any further , but wretchedly despise all those , who doe learne any science , and do followe vertue , and they disdaine men of noble conditions , and consequently those who are more worthy then themselues . Of these I intēd to speak , who waxing proud of their bloud , haue the eyes of their vnderstanding blinded with a grosse and thicke vaile of ignorance , vvho vvoulde iudge the Lord God , if hee were to descend vpon earth againe . O foolishe sect of mortall men ! I cannot truely imagine to what end they leade so miserable a life , not tasting of the sweetnesse of vertue , from whence springeth all Nobilitie . Were it not farre better for man that might taste thereof , and wil not , that hee were depriued of life ? yes surely . If then they liue without any reason , what difference shall we make betweene them , who esteeme themselues chiefe amongst other noble men , and the baser sorte of men , nay rather betweene them and beastes ? I can hardly finde it . For all doe equally followe the seruice of the fraile fleshe , setting aside eternall thinges . Ought these men to waxe proud in this sorte , who conuersing with wise courtiers , or with other men deseruing estimation , where they discourse of knowledge , of historie , or of anie other vvorthie vertue , doe become worse then beastes , and sometimes doe resemble images of Marble ? As it happened the other day , that being in companie with certaine Lordes ( with some of you that are here present ) where there were men of great learning , and skill : and amongst them some of those who bragge so greatly of their Nobilitie , wee discoursed a great while both of hautie , and meane matters : and intending to passe the middle of the day , in iestes and disportes , we set abroche certaine tales , vvhich seemed so much the more pleasing vnto vs , as they were farre from the trueth : but these noble men did maruellously wonder at them : As the tale of the ape of India , y t plaid so well at chesse , & this other , that in the midst of the riuer Tabor mens words do freese , & afterwards thawe when they come to the fire . Euery one that had any quicke capacitie , inuented some fable or other , but these noble Lordes ( who feared to set their foot on ground , and to put off their hatte for marring their haire ) being present there in company ( as I tolde you ) were in the like taking , ( vnderstanding of such great wonders ) as the people when they heard the holie frier preach vnto them , the fasting , virginity , simplicitie and holinesse , of the blessed soule of sir Chapellet : and two of them harkened to our tales with like attention , as Callandrine did , when he vnderstoode the discourse of the wonderfull vertues of Elitropa : I was verie desirous at that time , to adde vnto the former stories , the miracle which happened to Callandrine himselfe , when he was gotten with child by his wife , which made them all to stand amazed . Many other pleasant tales we told , which being ended , some one of the company said , yea it is true , I remember it well , and it was about that age of the world , when as Oxen did speak , which he had no sooner said , but one of these great Noblemen did aske him , saying : Then oxen spake in times past . Whereunto the other being a young man of a sharpe witte saide , yes sir ; but might wee vnderstande their speech , quoth the noble man ? yes my good lord , quoth he , and they oftentimes sung in company with men , and that with so sweet melodie , that their musicke seemed to surpasse the harmony of the religious Nunnes of Agnus Dei of Padoua . I cannot wel tel you how great the laughter was , which vvas continued so much the more , that in laughing he vvas so amazed , that for a long time he held his mouth awry , vvondring greatly at those things hee had heard . Truely the ignorance of them is so great and grosse , that it depriueth them of their vnderstanding , that it maketh them like vnto brute beasts : as by an example which happened the other day , I will better giue you to vnderstand . For comming to church with certaine of my friends to heare masse , one of these worthy lords ( whose name for some respect I will not vtter ) sate next vnto me , euen at the very instant when they lifted vppe that which they cal the body of Christ , and he hearing that I saide Adoramus te Christe , he demanded of me what these words duramus te Christo signified : but I vnderstanding his demand answered him fitlie to the purpose : afterwardes hee asked mee what the sacrament which the priest lifted vp with his two handes , and the chalice did signifie , and what was the cause that when he lifteth it vppe , wee vse to beate our breaste and our mouth with our hand : many such foolish questions he asked me , more fitter for Paganes and Sarasins , then for Christians . In regarde of the which , if before I accounted him for halfe a man , I now held him no better then a beast . And if you aske me if hee were a child , I answere , that though his demaundes were childish : yet did he exceed all of vs in age . Doe you beleeue that he is ( I say not onely a Gentleman but that which is more ) a Christian , although that his head was washed with the holy water of Baptisme ? Doe you repute him a Gentleman , because he is descended of Gentlemen ? God forbidde that hee shoulde so much as be accounted a man. Neither will I yet keepe secret from you , that which happened of late ( although in Honour I shoulde not declare it vnto you ) for one of these Noblemen intending to cause a gowne of Satten to bee made for his Wife , hee brought the Taylor into the house where the stuffe lay readie vpon the table ; and as the Tailour was aboute to chawlke out the compasse of it , the Gentlemanne ( whose name I will not discouer or make knowne ) causing his Wife to stande vppe , saide vnto the Taylour ? Sirrha , where wilt thou beginne to take measure of her , before , or behinde : the Tailour whoe was more discreete then the Nobleman , perceiuing his foolish demaund , saide vnto him ; my Lorde , I must beginne to take measure on the sides : the Lady was ashamed thereat , and holding downe hir head , blushed to see his folly . Now doe you thinke that such men are to be called Noble , although that they descend of a noble stocke , and that their apparell is thicke laide on with lace ? I shoulde rather iudge them depriued of nobilitie : you may see into what manifest ignorance nobility of bloud causeth a man to fall , whereof afterwardes pride is ingendred . Here Nennio paused a while , and afterwards proceeded further in this sort . Yea ? this nobility of bloud is not onlie cause of pride , and ignorance , but of vnsufferable euill , and ineuitable losse . How often hath there been cruel warre betweene the people of Rome ? How many Nations hath beene raised in armes ? How much bloud hath beene shedde through the continuall dissentions which grewe betweene the noble men and the common people ? Surely verie much , for the pride of noble men against the comminaltie , was growne to that height , & the desire which they had to increase their wealth , by the occupation of that which belonged vnto other menne was so great , that the common people oftentimes did remain in more safety in waging war abroad , then they did in peace with the nobility at home , who handled them as their capital enimies , by which actiōs they had not only brought the common people of Rome to extream pouerty , but all Italie : whereof did follovve ciuill vvarre , and that bicause they did vsurpe both the goodes and landes of the cōminaltie : vvhereof did spring the lavve Agraria , which did forbid , that no man , vvhether he vvere noble , or of the common sort , should hold more land then a paire of oxen could plowe in fiue hundred daies : and that the enemies lands should be deuided amongst the people . VVhich lawe did so displease the nobility , that they conducted their armies euen to the extreame limits of Italie ; and Tiberius Gracchus ( succeeding as Tribune of the people ) to fauour that lavve , the Romane liberty vvas cleane ouerthrowne . For thereof did arise such great hatred , that they came to armes , and to bloud , without measure : wherupon the people reposed themselues vpon Marius , and the nobility vpon Scilla ; vvho after most cruell vvarre remained conquerour . And the same disdaines , and invvard enmity , renuing betvveene the Nobility and the communaltie , in the time of Cesar and Pompey , the one making himself the leader of Marius his side , the other taking part vvith Scilla as their cheefe conductor : vvhereof did follovve infinite and cruell slaughters , Cesar in the ende beeing victorious , vvho was the first tyrant of Rome . What shall I say of the bloudie butcherie , which follovving after the suddaine death of Asellius ( Pretor of Rome ) who vvas set in that authoritie to reforme the insatiable vsuries which were so increased in the citie , by the rich and mighty , that the people entred into despaire , and vvith great furie did breake dovvne the Images of Scilla , and of Pompey , which vvere so hatefull vnto them ? Greeuous likevvise vvere the dissentions , vvhich did spring in the famous Citie of Athens , betweene the noblemen and the people , during y t vvhich Cassandra was established by the nobilitie , chiefe of the faction against the comminalty , Polipercon being their leader : who not without great slaughter did driue Cassandra into Macedonia , so that the people as conquerors remained at libertie . Whereuppon they did condemne the principall persons of the contrary faction to death , and did banish others the citie , amongst whō , Demetrius Phalerius was one , and Phocion that great captaine of theirs : whoe ( albeit that his vertues were iudged worthy of al humane glory and praise ) yet came he to be so hatefull vnto the common people , that euen vntill his death they denied him buriall . How greeuous the hatred is which groweth by wicked oppressions , made by the nobility against the comminalty , they onely doe knovv who haue made tryall thereof . That which happened vnto Fabius , beeing Consul , may make good proofe hereof , for he extreamly oppressing the people , hadde in such sort inflamed their greeuous hatred against him , the Romane armie buckling with their enemies , and holding the victorie for certaine and vndoubted , the souldiors rather resolued to depriue themselues of the victorie , then to giue him cause of triumph . Farre worse then this happened to Appius Claudius , ( a capitall enimie of the people ) for he holding the Consulship in the warre against the Volsques ; the souldiors rather gaue him triumph of dishonour then of victory , turning their backs to their enimy . And heere I will declare vnto you the ende of this Appius Claudius , who was woont to call a most vile prison which was in Rome , the habitation of the Romaine people , but the name was not agreeable to the effect , for by the appointment of the Tribune of the people , he was shut vp in that prison amongst theeues , and murderers , and there put to death . But why doe I speake onely of Appius Claudius , seeing that it hath alwaies remained as a naturall and hereditary instinct to that familie , with mortall hatred to pursue the commons , so that the chiefest of that house , vvere in continuall dissention with the officers that vvere for the people . By this you see , that the Nobilitie of bloud , is not onely cause of pride and ignorance , but of most cruell slaughters and mortall hatred . Nennio gathered this last conclusion of his speech , and afterward he followed on in this maner . The nobilitie of bloud ( most worthy gentlemen ) besides the calamities afore spoken of , dooth ingender a kind of enuy , that stil gnaweth in the heartes of noble men : for they seeing some amongst the common sort , deseruedly aduanced to honour and dignity , through their singular value & vertue , immediatly there ariseth in their hart intollerable enuy , which doth eat and consume them , as the sunne doth the snow . Of such vigor was the enuie which increased in the hearts of the Romane nobility , when as they saw Gn. Flauius , whose father was a Libertine , created Pretor of the people , in regard vvhereof , they laid awaie their golden rings , and their trappings of their horses , which vvere markes of nobility , which they vvere vvont to do , when they were sad and sorrovvful . And on a time the same Gn. Flauius being Pretor , going to visit his collegue who was sick , he met there many gentlemen of Rome , amongst the vvhich one of them ( in regard he vvas born of base parentage ) moued not himselfe to do him honour as Pretor , and their superiour , vvhereof he made no account , but commanded that the chaire vvherein the greatest and most vvorthy officers of Rome vvere caried throgh the city , should bee brought vnto him , and afterwardes caused it to be placed before the gate of the pallace , to the end that none of the gentlemen should issue forth , but they should euen in despite see him set in that chair , into the which none of them did euer ascend . Enuy likewise did cruelly afflict the hearts of the Romane nobilitie , vvhen as they savv Ventidius Bassus , of whom Fabricio did speak yesterday , of a base hackney man , to be mounted to the dignity of a Tribune , to the degree of Pretor , to be created Summus Pontifex , and finallie to be made Consull , in such sort y t they made verses vpon the basenesse of his birth . But doe I say onely that the noble men are enuious ouer the common people , when as it doth with great vehemency finde place euen amongst themselues ? Enuy was the cause of the horrible vvars vvhich did grovv between Cornel-Scilla , Marius , and Cinna , which were most noble men : betvveene Cesar and Pompey , vvho vvere Patriciens of Rome ( of vvhom I did make mention of late ) and of many more worthy Roman Consuls , of whō the auncient histories are repleat . Enuy , which did proceed from the nobles , did bring Pompey after his Empires and triumphes , to remaine in his house , or in his Grange , he seldome daring to shevv himselfe publikely abroad . Q. Metellus shewed the hatred which he did beare vnto Q. Pompeius , when as he savv that after he had brought both of the countries of Spain into subiection , Pompey succeeded him , which was most odious vnto him . For he licensed the greater part of the souldiors to depart , caused the victuals to be spoiled , the weapons of the armie to be broken , did forbid that any man should giue the Elephants meate : and to conclude , left not any thing wherwith Pompey might defend himselfe against the enemies . So great was the enuy vvhich possessed the mind of Cato of Vtica , because that Cesar had in Egypt defeated the partakers of Pompey , who were fled into Afrike after his death , that he slue himselfe in Vtica . Enuy likewise moued Themistocles that valiant captaine , to persecute that worthy and iust Aristides , both of them being noble men of Athens . But why do I so inlarge my discourse , to recount to you so many ancient histories . Turne your eies ( if you so please ) vpon euery town , and euery place of the vvorld , inhabited by noble men , and those of the common sort ; and you shall finde no place exempt , where there is not rooted amongst noble men one with another , amongst the nobilitie & the comminaltie , hatred , persecution , enuy , ambition , ignorance , and pride . These are the fruites which nobilitie of bloud doe giue to the mind , which likewise doth not bring any other grace to the body , because it nei●her maketh them more fair nor more liuely , nor more strong , nor more witty , nor more aduised , nor more apt then other men who are borne of base bloud : forsomuch as therein nature worketh equally , and not the nobility of bloud . Certainlie ( quoth Maister Iohn Francisco ) it seemeth that it bringeth foorth in all places , not onely vnsauorie fruit , but most venemous and noisome . A bad root ( answered M. Dominico ) cannot produce good fruit : now nobility of bloud being brought into the world of a malicious root , what goodnesse can it yeeld ? Surely none at all . M. Io. Frācisco said , what is that root so dangerous and venemous , whence nobility of bloud proceedeth ? I would tell you ( quoth he ) but that I should displese Nennio , in interrupting him . It shal not displease me , answered Nennio , to hear you , so that you doe promise mee , to tell vs from whence the roote of this Nobilitie of bloud doth proceed , vpon which condition it shall please me well to haue your opinion , so that you may boldly go forwardes : that being said , M. Dominico turning himselfe towards M. Iohn Francisco , began to speake in this maner . It is an euident matter , that the great Architect of the world , created man , pure , simple , not spotted with vice , and perfectly good , but it is not to bee beleeued that he made him either noble or ignoble : Man then himselfe was the inuenter and beginner of this Nobilitie . Hee being cause thereof , Nobilitie beganne in the first age , to be noted in those ( and they were esteemed Noble ) who either by force or fraude , did surmount others . Cain the first man who was borne in the world , did ouercome his brother Abel and slew him , and he was the first who by deceit and crueltie did vsurpe the name of Nobilitie , in that thorough furious audacitie , hee brought other men into subiection , whereupon hee was equally honoured and reuerenced by them , and reputed honourable , more then any other . After him did succeede Enoch Irad , and others , who descending from Cain ( that proud murtherer and vsurper of other mens goods , & so consequently noble ) they were likewise esteemed noble . But Seth the third brother of Cain ( a iust and good man , and y e first in the world who called on the name of God ) he was not so much esteemed , and reputed amongst men , but was adiudged of a soft nature , abiect and vile , with all his posteritie : and by this meanes , nobilitie tooke beginning . By succession of time , it pleased the great gouernor of heauen , and of earth , for the wickednesse which were generally committed on the earth , corrupted by man , who made no accompt of God , to destroy the world , by the opening of waters , of fountaines , of the depth , yea of the water gates of heauen : which hee would not first close vp , or stoppe , before that euerie liuing soule was destroied except Noe , who was so highly in his fauor , with the familie of those that did descend of Seth the ignoble . Of this Noe afterwardes , amongst others , did Cham descend , who shewed himselfe vnreuerent , and wicked towardes his father ; Nemrod did succeed , of his Line a man verie mightie , and puissant , and full of wickednesse . He gaue the first beginning to the accursed vice of Tyrannous dominion , and by Tyrannie he ruled the kingdome of Babylon , of Arad , & others : Wherupon thorow his might and tyrannie , being become king , hee was adiudged most noble . Nowe great men grewe to such temeritie , that they constrained those , who at that time were rude and grosse , not onely to repute them as noble , but to adore them as Gods. Hereupon their heires and successors were in a maner esteemed as Demy-Gods . And so the opinions of the first men ( who to make a nobleman , did ground themselues vpon murther and crueltie , and in tyrannising ouer the people ) did as it were from hand to hand , in such sorte extend their dominion , that we may truely conclude , that Nobilitie of bloud proceedeth euen from the first age of the worlde , from this generall roote . The generations of men being increased in the world , and kingdomes possessed , it was the pleasure of kings and princes , that they who did most of al content them and fitted their humours best , should be seperated from the common people , in giuing them especiall priuiledges , graces , and preheminences , which were not graunted to the vulgar sorte : Wherefore , they and their successors were held by the first people of the worlde , as men well pleasing God , and because they were seuered from the multitude , and reuerenced more then others , they were called Notable , which is as much as Noble . And for this cause the men of y e world , being extreamely desirous of honor , and of glorie ; and seeing that such was the meanes to become noble , manie ( to the ende they might obteine this glorie of nobilitie ) did seeke to become pleasing vnto kinges , and Princes . Some in shewing themselues cruell murtherers of their enemies , others in boldly ransacking the people , others to gratifie their prince , did giue them either their wife or their daughter in pray : some to delight him , did feede him with dishonest pleasures , others with flatterie , with treason , with money , & with other horrible wickednesse , and wretched deuises , to winne his fauour , by the which they did afterwardes obtaine priuiledges of Nobilitie for themselues , and their posteritie . This is the birth M. Iohn Francisco , this is the beginning , from whence the Nobilitie of bloud did first spring , this is the pathe , this is the meanes , by the which they did so easily mount vp to the soueraign degree of Nobilitie . From hence it grew , from hence noble men had their creation . And if we would enter into consideration of the behauiour , the customes , the maner of life of Noblemen of this age , surely wee shoulde finde them wrapped in vanities , in robberies , in cruelties , in treasons , in wantonnesse , in gaming , and manie other mischiefes ; so hard a thing it is for them to shake off this their first nature . And so strong was the opinion of men , to place nobility in crueltie , in robbery , in wrong , that not onely they did repute those noble , who were most fierce , and most faithlesse , but euen amongst vnreasonable creatures , they did holde , and doe yet at this day , accompt those most noble , which are most cruell , most rauenous , most to bee dreaded , most fierce , most horrible , and most hurtfull to mankinde . As amongst birds , the Eagle , the Grifon , the Faulkon : amongst beastes of the earth , the Lion , the Dragon , the Tiger , the Leopard , the Beare , the Wolfe , the wilde Boare , the Serpent : amongst the fish of the Sea , the Whale , the Dolphin , and such like . Ancient men of that age , did beleeue , the very same of trees : for the most vnfruitfull , and those that did bring least commoditie vnto man , they did not onely esteeme them moste Noble , but they did euen consecrate them vnto the Gods. As the leaued Oake to Iupiter , the greene Lawrell to Apollo , the high Cipresse , to Pluto , the blooming Mirhe to Venus , the imbracing Iuie vnto Bacchus , and others vnto other gods . We see the ensignes which by antiquitie haue been attributed vnto the gods , that they doe euen shewe their crueltie , their force , and violence , forasmuch as they giue thunder to Iupiter : to Mars a Launce , a Triple forke to Neptune ; a sharpe axe vnto Bacchus , to Hercules a clubbe , to Saturne a Sieth , which vse hath extended it selfe vnto noble men , because they haue chosen in their shields the most cruell and fierce beasts , which can be imagined : for this man beareth in his armes the rauenous Eagle , that other the fierce Lyon , some one the strong Bull , another the Lion , and the Eagle togither : some the fearefull Beare , others the Hinde , some Castles , others mountaines , this man a Tower , that man a Hill , some Chaines , some Fire , all being hurtfull instruments vnto man : and this onely to shewe their proud mindes , and hawtie thoughtes . By this then we may see , euen at this day , not onely how peruerse and wicked the beginning of nobility is , but euen the life and minde of noble men . Master Peter Anthony taking the speech vpon him said : Yea but I haue seene in many places the armes of noble men , which did neither denote fiercenes nor cruelty , but were only beautified with roses , violets , flowers , stars , croissants , and some of them were only distinguished by diuers colours . True it is ( quoth Master Dominico ) but those armes ought not to be adiudged neither so ancient , nor so noble , neither do they set foorth such warlike , and worthy actions as those I spake of . You may now see Madam Camilla , whether I had anie thing to say , or no , against the nobility of blood , albeit the other day , you did iudge mee to take part with Possidonio , and did threaten me , because I did in fauour of nobility of blood , alleadge some reasons against Fabricio . Certainely ( quoth shee ) you are this day worthy of your hire , and in rewarde of that which you haue spoken , the penalty you did incurre the other day shall bee forgiuen you . I shall then ( quoth Master Dominico ) liue assured , & out of all suspition , seeing that you doe absolue mee . Without passing any further , Nennio entring againe into his discourse , proceeded in this manner . Albeit that rule , and tyranny ouer other , Master Dominico , gaue cause in those first ages ( as it doeth yet at this day ) that the Lord , and the tyrant , bee reuerenced of the people , and by that meanes become noble , yet wee ought not to beleeue , that nobilitie is onelie growne by that meanes , for I doe finde that manie , and diuers haue beene the causes of the beginning thereof . Men being greatly multiplied vpon the earth , and nations deuided after that renuing of the worlde , their life was licentious , and lawlesse , and the greater part of them did encrease , inclining to euill , whereof murthers , violence , and robberies did growe on euery side , and there was no bridle for the wickednesse of man. Whereupon all men were molested , and troubled , whether they were good , or bad : For the establishment then of some means to restraine these loose people , to the ende that good men might liue assured , and the wicked be punished according to their deserts , men did ioine togither and did choose for their Prince , amongst those that were good , the most wise , the most prudent , the most iust , and of most vnderstanding , to whom they did submit themselues , and gaue full power to punish outragious excesse , and wicked deedes , which might heere after happen , and condignlie to recompence good men . From thence man was first called noble , ( that is to saie notable in vertue aboue others . And the most part of the men of that age , growing rude of wit , grosse of vnderstanding , without iudgement , and without any ornament of life , they who in vnderstanding , in iudgement , and in politique vertue , did surpasse others , were seperated from the ignoraunt people , and so consequently made noble : whose issue ( that they might not degenerate but conserue themselues in the reputation , and nobilitie of their ancestours ) did striue to followe their steps and vertue . VVhereupon they were inrolled in the register of noblemen , and from thence by succession it commeth , that nobilitie did descend to their posteritie . It happened often that townes were oppressed by tirants , assieged by potentates , and the people extreamely oppressed : Wherefore a law was made , that whosoeuer could deliuer the common wealth from so many oppressions , he & his successors , should be numbred amongst noblemen : and by this meanes , many shewing the generositie and value of their courage , became noble in this manner . You see three mighty causes , from the which nobility did spring , by the which it doth clearely appeare , that it descendeth from the vertues of the minde , riches likewise hath beene the cause to make men noble . Moreouer many in becomming tyrantes , and violently bringing others into subiection , haue made that the originall of their nobility , as by you M. Dominico hath beene said . These are the principall beginnings of nobility , from hence noblemen did first spring : so that the vertues of the minde , tyrannie , and riches , were the first meanes and way to attaine to nobilitie . The companie was so intentiue to heare , and their memory & vnderstanding so setled vpon Nennio , that they had almost lost the remembraunce of themselues when as suddainly the heard they trampling of horses , galloping of coursers , knocking & opening of gates , wherefore our sences being awaked , our backs turned , and we looking towardes the garden gates , infinitly desiring to knowe who they were , wee might see two of their seruantes who brought vs certaine word of other company that were newly come , who had expresly taken their iourney thither , to visite vs , whereof some of them were straightly ioyned vnto vs by kindred , others by friendship : who had brought their houndes with them , to passe the rest of the day merily with vs , in hunting . But after they saw vs sitting circlewise round about Nennio , vnder the shadow of sweete smelling orenge trees , after they had saluted vs , not without some wonder , they demaunded vvhat the cause might bee , that we sate round about in that fashion , and what plaie we were at , but seeing nothing about vs fit for anie pastime , it maie be ( quoth they ) you are set to tell tales . Wherefore we hauing in as few wordes as we coulde , tolde them the successe of the matter in question , and how that the two daies before were spent in the same discourse , with a singular contentment of the whole company : They vnderstanding the matter we intreated of , did as it were enuie vs , and were not a little discontented that they had not beene there at the beginning . So they changing their former determination , and little caring for hunting , it pleased them better to staie with vs , then to withdrawe vs from our enterprise begun , and almost ended , they contenting themselues with the conclusion , and end of the question , to remedy that which they had lost in hearing the beginning , and middest thereof . Wherfore they being set and placed amongst vs , as conueniently as they might , wee turned our lookes , our eares , and our mindes towardes Nennio , who seeing vs set in as good order as we were before , without anie further staie added these words following vnto his former speech . If the noble men vvhich doe liue at this daie , Master Dominico , doe vse such violences , such theftes , such lasciuiousnesse , and other such mischiefes , as you alleadge , they are not worthie of life : and as for mee , I will iudge them the most vile , infamous and reproachfull persons which euer liued on earth , although they did descend of most noble parentes . For the worthines of their blood is obscured and cleane defaced by their euill conditions , whereby maie bee gathered , that the worthinesse of blood ( though at the first it giueth a good impression , and addeth grace to a true and perfect noble man ) yet is it not sufficient to make him perfectlie noble . It is then necessarie ( to grace the nobilitie of blood ) to adorne his life with worthie and valorous actions , and to endow himselfe with qualities fit for a gentleman . Master Iohn Francisco saide , and what are those qualities and conditions , which doe set foorth a gentleman , and doe make him perfectly noble ? They are ( quoth Nennio ) these , to follow vertue and to flie vice . Whereunto Master Iohn Francisco replied , and what are those vertues , and those vices ? Nennio answered , I esteeme it a superfluous matter to declare it vnto you , you knowing them right well , as one in whom all vertue shineth , and vice taketh no place . But to satisfie your minde heerein , I say that the qualities and ornamentes which are requisite for the conseruation of nobility , to bring a gentleman to soueraigne perfection are many , but I wil discourse of those vnto you which seeme vnto me to bee most necessarie . A gentleman borne of noble blood ought to be intirely good , and therewithall he ought in like manner to bee wise , prudent , iust and temperate , aduised in all his actions , according as the degree of his nobilitie doeth require , he ought to be couragious and gratious , but especially of a sharpe wit , quicke iudgement , and good vnderstanding : in his discourse honest , eloquent , and modest , in as much as in any action whatsoeuer modestie bringeth great ornament vnto man ? Let him carrie grauitie with him , which bringeth credite , and reputation amongst men . Let him yet bee respectiue , reuerent , gentle , and courteous , for by that meanes hee shall become pleasing , and amiable to all men , and the brightnesse of his nobility shall thereby shine and increase much more . Let him seeke to please others in all lawfull matters , wherein a generall good will may be gotten . Let him doe his indeuour to spread abroade a good reputation of himselfe , and to imprint a good opinion of himselfe in the mindes of men . Which hee shall easily bring to passe , if besides those matters I haue spoken of , hee doe take heede to abstaine from those things , which doe not only wholly take away , but in any thing blot or diminish his credite . Let him not be ambitious , proud , arrogant , high minded , nor discourteous , because that such kinde of behauior is wont to breed lothsomnes , hatred , euil wil , & disdaine . Let him not be vaineglorious , in praising himselfe , nor too much affected in his actions . Let him auoide the euill speeches of other men . But why doe I thus reckon vp particularly that which belongeth vnto him , seeing that euery man ought of himselfe to know that which defraudeth him of honour , and renowne , & that which doth increase it . Here Nennio paused a while , which Master Peter Anthonie perceiuing , taking the speech vpon him said thus . I would wish Nennio , that thou wouldest now shew vnto vs what exercise and conuersation a gentleman hauing these partes in him , shall vse . Nennio answered , that maie easily be gathered from those preceptes I haue giuen : for if hee bee good , his conuersation and exercise likewise shall be good . Yea but I could wish , that thou wouldest be pleased , to discourse more particularly thereof . Whereunto Nennio said . It is certaine that the value and excellency of man , proceedeth either from learning , or armes : For the name , the glorie , and the nobility likewise , of so many worthy men , and so many valiant knights , should long since haue beene extinguished , with their body , if their minde had not beene graced either with armes , or learning . To the ende then , that he that is borne of noble blood , may become excellent , and valorous amongst noble men , he ought wholly to addict himselfe thereto , & imploy his whole minde and study therein . But I will not particularlie seeke in euery point to handle the qualities fit for a gentleman noblie borne , for besides that time woulde not suffer me to doe it , he may supply that which wanteth in considering those meanes I haue aboue rehearsed : only I will not forbeare to aduertise him of this , that in all his actions hee ought to consider the ende , and to gouerne himselfe in them with honest mediocrity , shewing his worthines with discretion , and good iudgment : and that he take good heede vnto his conuersation , for men will iudge him to be such as his conuersation is , and if hee keepe company with wicked and bad persons , he shall be reputed as they are . These are the true qualities , these are the right exercises , which he that desireth to become perfectly noble , ought to obserue , although hee bee not descended of noble bloud . But me thinketh we haue staide very long vpon these two sortes of nobilitie . Wherefore to the end I may withhold you no longer : I will passe on to the other kinde thereof . Nennio hauing thus spoken he paused a while , as if he would haue refreshed himselfe , and afterwards proceeded in this wise . We haue worthy gentlemen , as I thinke , sufficiently discoursed of the force vertue , and worthinesse , of the nobility of blood , conioyned with riches : and likewise of the greatnes , and of the effectes and power of the nobilitie of the minde , and therewithall handled the originall of them both . But because there are manie who are adorned with these two sorts of nobility , from thence proceedeth that compounded or mixed nobilitie , which I did speake of in the beginning of my discourse , which is nothing else but a certaine qualitie which proceedeth from the worthines of the blood of our ancestours , graced with good conditions and lawdable vertues issuing from the minde . He then that is possessed with this kinde of nobilitie exceedeth him far both in nobilitie and worthinesse , who is onlie noble by blood , or by vertue , as one in whom both blood and vertue doe iointlie concurre togither . Which I intending to perswade you , I need not alleadge any reasons vnto you beeing sufficiently manifest of it selfe , that it containeth more excellency , and glory , then both the former : Albeit that thou Fabricio , diddest endeuor yesterday , with no lesse pregnant , then apparāt argumēts , to shew that the contrary is true , to wit , that he is worthy of more dignity , who only is become noble of himselfe , by the nobility of the minde , then hee that was renowned both with the minde , and with bloud , which is not so true , as thou diddest affirme it to bee . And as for me I would answere , that which should be fit vnto these thy argumentes were it not that Master Peter Anthonie had on the suddaine plaide my part therein . I who harkened vnto all these thinges with no lesse attention then the rest , did in the middest of this discourse , call to minde the dreame , which was the occasion that I forsooke that kinde of life I led before I came to this place . In the which dreame ( that I may put you in minde thereof againe ) it seemed vnto mee first that I did see a company of youthfull Ladies , in the middest of whom , as their queene , did march one , richlie decked with golde , and precious stones . After her I saw another band of knightes followe , with their ensignes in their hand , who had with them a Lady apparelled in sanguin colour . After these followed this Lady , whose authority was so full of reuerence , who was attended on with a company no lesse learned , then wise . To cōclude , it seemed vnto me that I saw an other Ladie , so much more worthy then the rest , as the ende excelleth the middest , as by my former discourse I recited vnto you . I doe nowe consider by the qualities of this last queen ( whose brightnes was such that if it were possible for me aswell to see the same waking , as I did perceiue it sleeping , the light of my eies woulde surelie bee dimmed ) that shee did resemble no other thing , then true nobilitie , which man desiring to obtaine , to become noble , hee had neede to haue the three former meanes recited by mee , to wit , that he participate of the grace of the first queene , which I did beholde , ( which was riches ) and that hee doe descend of the other auncient Ladie ( which did denote nobilitie of race ) afterwardes it behooueth him to follow the thirde ( I meane vertue ) which is more necessarie then anie the other meanes : and so hauing thē , without all doubt he shal easilie come vnto this last queene ( which representeth nobility it selfe and the perfection thereof . ) And of such necessitie is the meanes of vertue , to attaine vnto the last degree of true nobilitie , that the ancient Romanes did easilie beleeue , they coulde not obtaine honour , ( that is to saie , nobilitie ) without vertue : vvhich two they did reuerence as goddesses , and builte vnto them two temples , to their praise , which were so conioyned togither , that there was no man coulde enter into the temple of honour , except hee did first passe thorough the temple of vertue : to shew thereby , that no man ought to be honoured nor iudged noble , if hee obtained not this nobility by the meanes of vertue . Wherefore I come now to the conclusion of Nennio , who iudged acccording to troth , that how noble so euer a man be , either by bloud , by riches , or by vertue only , that he becommeth farre more renowmed and noble if conioyntly he inioy riches , nobilitie of bloud , and vertue . Nennio confirming this againe , after he perceiued I had nothing else to say , he proceeded in this wise . Certainely I will not only name him noble , but most noble , neither will I call it perfect nobilitie , but most perfect . I do not thinke that this compounded nobility can be most perfect ( quoth Master Iohn Francisco ) as it were opposing himself vnto Nennio his speech , if it do spring of the two former , one of them ( to wit nobility of blood ) being not perfect , according to your owne saying , but the other is ; how cā it be then , that an vnperfect thing , conioyned with that which is perfect , can make that most perfect , which springeth of the coniunction of these two : surely I can scarslie be perswaded therein . True it is answered Nennio , I said as much as you affirme , but yet I did not denie , but that nobility of blood was a kinde of nobilitie exalted by the vulgar sort . The nobility of bloode then , and noblenesse of the minde , when they concur togither in one subiect , surely both the vulgar sort , and men of wisedome , will hold such a one to be most noble . And like as wee iudge him to bee rich , who hath great store of golde and siluer , notwithstanding we will holde him to be more wealthy , if therunto you adde iewels and precious stones . The verie like happeneth vnto him , who being borne rich , and of noble blood , hath his minde fraught with good conditions , & vertues , for he ought to be adiudged most noble and his nobility most perfect . You see then ( worthy gentlemen ) that noble men of whom we speake , are of three sortes , as I haue long since giuen you to vnderstand : howbeit the rest of men are not wholy to be accounted ignoble , and base . For there are some who though they bee not descended of any noble stocke , yet are they very wealthy , and those amongst their fellow citizens , in the cittie where they dwell , are had in great estimation . So it seemeth vnto me that we may well say , that men ( speaking only of the qualities of such as are noble , or ignoble ) in what place soeuer , ought principally to be deuided into three companies . One of the which is of those , whose estate doeth contemptibly consist in the most vile and most abiect place , who since they were first borne into the world , haue imploied all their labour and industrie to the carefull gouernement of bruit beastes depriued of reason , to the tillage of the ground , and to al other corporall labour necessary for the vse of man , whereby their life ought rather to be tearmed seruile then free . The second and meane condition , is of those that are not noble , which yet are of degree worthy of estimation & honour , in which company , are comprehended such , who though they are not of noble bloud , yet at the least they do come of a honourable and honest familie , which degree & estate is of no small account and reckoning amongst men . In times past in the citie of Rome ( famous and renowned more then any other place in the world ) there were noble men , and others not noble , vnder which two estates not only the rule , and gouernement of the cittie did consist , but of the whole Empire , and the simple people had no lesse authoritie and power then the patriciens to make & publish laws , by which they were to be gouerned . And that is not only vsed in forraine citties , but euen in ours , the gouernment whereof is equallie in common with the gentlemen , and the people . The thirde sort is of noble men , whose condition hath beene largelie entreated of these two daies : and these manner of noble men are likewise deuided into three companies , as I this day with a long discourse shewed you . Nennio , as one desirous to come to the ende of his speech , was ready to proceed farther , when as M. Peter Anthony turning towards him said in this wise . Let vs a little stay here , for if my memory serue me well , besides these three sortes of nobilitie , which thou hast very wel opened vnto vs , there is yet another , vnlesse I haue not well marked thy words which thou didst vtter this daie in the beginning of thy discourse , by which ( besides that sort of nobility which thou didst cal compoūded ) there is that kinde , which is called ciuile nobility : wherefore it were not amisse that with the former thou diddest likewise open this vnto vs. Whereunto Nennio , without any further stay answered . I was likewise comming to the speech thereof , and let not my last words moue you at all where I saide that nobility is deuided into 3 sorts , in the which this other which seemeth a 4 is comprehended , for I do place it in the same degree with nobility of blood , and therfore it is not necessary that I adde it vnto the former as a fourth degree of nobility . It is called ciuile , as cōming from thence from whence al ciuility proceedeth , to wit from kings and princes . And it is no other thing but a certain dignity giuen by the prince , which many times doth not end in the person of him to whom such honor was granted , but extendeth it selfe for euer vnto his posterity , according as it pleaseth the prince . And the conformity betweene ciuile nobility , and nobility of blood is so great , that if we looke narrowly into the first beginning ( in case anie certainety thereof may bee knowne ) surely it appeareth it dependeth of nobility of blood . For the king hauing by his priuiledges created you and all your descendants noble by ciuile nobility , such opinion and reputation remaining of you with those of our city , who doubteth but in succession of time your posterity shal be adiudged noble of blood , and not of ciuile nobility ? Surely not any man. Which may bee gathered by that which Master Dominico & I said before , speaking of the nobility of blood . One of my brethren opposing himselfe vnto Nennio his speech , and as it were taking the wordes out of his mouth said . I beleeue that it is not yet confessed that a king , or an Emperour can make a noble man. For an Emperour , a king , or a prince may well make some courtier rich , or any other , and bestowe some office vpon him ; but I doe not thinke for all that , that he can make him noble . And it is to no purpose to say , as well you maie ; that in as much as hee is the Soueraigne glorie , and farre more noble then any other , that therefore he may make men honourable and noble . For suppose that thou wert most iust , most wise , and most prudent : and that I did desire to bee made iust , wise , and prudent by thee , could that possibly be done ? Truely all the whole world togither , could not bring it to passe , if by nature my mind were not apt to learn such vertue : for they are gifts of the mind , and consequently not easie to be transported from one body to another . I wil then saie that a prince , albeit he be most noble , yet can he hardly make another noble . Of which opinion the Emperour Gismond was , who being earnestly entreated by one of his loyall and faithfull courtiers , borne of base parentage , that hee woulde vouchsafe to make him noble : he answerd , I may make thee free , and rich , but noble I cannot make thee ; as being a gift not vnder his commaund , but in the power of nature . So soone as my brother had declared his opinion ; Nennio purposing to answere his obiection , beganne to say thus . Vnderstanding that nobility consisteth in the vertues of the minde , as you doe , it may easily be yeelded vnto , that an Emperour or a Prince cannot make another man noble : but taking it in that sort as I did giue it you , it were surely no small fault to say , that vnto him to whō so large authority is graunted in this world , to establish and abrogate lawes at his pleasure , this farre lesse power shoulde bee denied . Doeth not hee create Earles , Marquesses , Dukes , & such like , who by such dignities are made most noble ? Yes surely , He may then farre more easily make one noble : not that he is able to endow him with iustice , with prudence , with wisedome , & other vertues of the minde : but yet this he may do , that he shall be esteemed and reputed in the rancke of gentlemen , & be numbred amongst them . And this fauorite of the Emperour Gismond did seeke nothing else of him when he craued to bee made noble , then that , whereas he was not reckoned amongst noble men , nor such account made of him amongst men , & that he did not inioy the like freedomes that noble men did , that thorough his royall priuiledges , and fauour , he might haue power to take place amongst noble men , which without doubt he might haue graunted vnto him . But Gismond vnderstoode him not in this maner , but in that sorte that you take it , and therefore his request was denied . How many doe wee see that haue beene made knightes in all kingdomes both by the Emperour and other princes of the world ? Many surely . Who is there then that doth not iudge them noble sith the king will haue it so ? If he grant for euer to him and to his successours such prerogatiues as noble men haue , such freedomes and markes of honour as are fit for them ? Who dare account him and his successours for other then noblemen ? Truely no man. Thus you may see how the prince may make an other man noble , giuing his fauor and dignity to whom it pleaseth him . The dignity of a doctor is equall vnto the degree of a knight which hee obtaineth as a reward of his vertues , & is no lesse esteemed and reuerenced then the other . The Lady Cassandra seeing that Nennio did somewhat take breath to refresh himselfe after his long discourse , raising vp her selfe as shee leaned vpon one of her sides , and turning towardes him , shee saide in this wise . Nennio , if I did wel vnderstand your speech you formerly concluded , that men of skil & learning are of the troupe of such as are noble by nobility of the mind , and now it seemeth that you would haue them bee in place equal to knights , which are by you put in the company of those who are noble by ciuile nobility , and ciuile nobility differeth as much from the nobility of the minde as noblenes of blood doth , by your own saying , wherefore I do not see how this may well passe without controll . Whereunto Nennio presently answered , wee haue not yet spoken ( Madam ) of the dignity that learned men 〈◊〉 obtaine by their skill , but onely shewed that lear●●●●●d vertous men are perfectly noble . Wherevpon to the end that they might euerie where be exalted and reuerenced , the princes of the world haue worthily ordained , that this dignity by the which they are called Doctors , should be added to their perfect nobility , that is to say , that by the meanes of the sciences they haue learned they may beare the lawrell , not that the same doth make them more noble or perfect : and here hence it is , that whosoeuer hath attained that dignity , if likewise with his science and vertue he bee adorned with good conditions , he shal not only be enobled with the nobility of the mind , but likwise with ciuile nobility , which is in the same degree that nobility of blood is , as I said vnto you . Howbeit doe not perswade your selues that euery man of skill and learning is made a perfect gentleman onlie by vertue of his science , for if he be vicious and wicked , fraught with bad conditions , although he be one of the learnedst men in the world , he shall bee helde so much the more base and ignoble . Whereupon I conclude , that these dignities of knights and Doctors , doe march in this last troupe of ciuile nobilitie . But whether of these two dignities is most excellent and noble ( quoth the Ladie Cassandra ) that which the Doctors doe purchase by their learning , or knightes by armes ? Madam ( quoth Nennio ) you propounde a great question , peraduenture no lesse doubtfull then that we now discourse of , and if we haue been debating of that matter three daies , as much time at the least woulde bee required ( if not more ) for the well opening of this matter . Is it so doubtfull saide shee , or doe you make vs beleeue so , to spare your labour ? If that bee the cause , I doe in curtesie enioyne you before wee departe from hence to resolue herein . Whereunto Nennio replied , Madam , It is trulie euen as I tell you , that not onlie that small time that is lefte vs of this euening , but two or three daies woulde scarce suffice to determine thereof : As for my selfe , I would willingly burne all these torches to night , if I might come to a resolution thereof . For nothing shoulde seeme painefull vnto me that might bring you pleasure , and contentment , and though it should , yet would I so indure it , as it shoulde seeme but a pastime vnto me . I giue you great thankes ( quoth shee ) of your ready minde to doe me pleasure , as indeede to say the troth , you haue alwaies shewed no lesse in effectes , then your gracious words haue imported . But yet let mee intreate , if so it please the rest of the company ( as I doubt not but it wil ) that some other day be appointed to entreate thereof : For such kind of discourses doe bring with them such delight , that for mine owne part , I could bee contented at all times to heare them . Nennio said hereunto . If you were as carefull to command me Madam , as I am ready to obey you , I doubt not but in time , you woulde cease to commaund mee . Wherefore when opportunity shall serue , I will prouide to set my selfe in a readines , to determine this other question which you haue propounded , as well as my ability will giue me leaue . It were good ( quoth the Lady Laura ) to heare & see the ende of this question which you haue set a broach Madā , but it is not greatly material nor doth not much cōcern this our discourse : wherfore my opinion is , that before you make a final end of the cōtrouersie you haue in hād , that like as you 3 haue shewed only what nobility is amongst you men : so you would take the paines Nennio , to declare the nobility of women , least wee should seeme to be smally accounted of , or altogither forgotten by you . Wherefore let it not displease you , to let vs vnderstande your opinion therein , for I am certaine it will adde both grace , and ornament to your former speech . It cannot do lesse ( answered Nennio ) then adde both grace and ornament thereto , for whatsoeuer man doth , should of it selfe haue but a bad grace , if you vvomen did not with your pleasant company , and entertainement make it more delightfull . But you shall vnderstand ( Madam ) that we haue not forgotten you as you suppose , for in this our discourse although we haue brought in no examples of women , yet doth it hold for them , and whatsoeuer hath beene spoken of vs , may be said of you , albeit not without some little difference , as in few words you shall heare . We haue in your nobility most ( honourable Ladies ) to consider the salfesame three qualities , which vvee haue considered in the nobility of man , to wit , nobilitie of bloud , of the minde , and compounded nobility . The Originall of the first descendeth of the same beginning from the which the nobility of man doeth proceede ; from the father , and not from the mother ; as Master Dominico did very aptly declare vnto you the other day in answering the Ladie Cassandra , who went about to prooue that in the nobility of man , because it is deriued of blood , the mothers nobility , and not the fathers ought to be considered , and therefore I neede not anie longer to stay thereupon , beeing true , and plaine of it selfe . The second which is the nobility of the mind , ought likewise in women to bee considered in the vertues of the minde : For they ought to set foorth themselues with gentle conditions , good behauiour , gracious humility , simple purenes , worthy honesty , commendable chastitie , giftes fit , and proper for Ladies , which make them to be esteemed , praised , honoured , pleasing , ful of vertue , and most noble . What grater ignobility , or basenes can be attributed vnto Ladies borne of noble bloud , then contemned dishonestie , vnchaste pudicity , disloyall thoughts , wandering imaginations leading to ill customes , and finallie a life without any consideration ? Not any in my iudgement . So likewise a Ladie cannot if shee woulde seeke the whole worlde , finde any better meanes to become noble , & excellent , then the giftes aboue mentioned . And therefore we may wel conclude , that a Lady not borne of any noble bloud , but beautified with good conditions , ought farre to be preferred before her , whose birth is noble , & renowmed , and by her vnordinate behauior becommeth base , and infamous , because her naturall nobility is by her loosenes vtterly lost . Likewise women are ennobled by their wisedome , and learning . The knowledge of the sciences turned to the greate glorie and commendation of Cornelia the mother of the Gracchi , of Lelia , and Hortensia , the daughters of Lelius , and of Q. Hortensius , of Proba Valeria of Rome , and of infinite others . But weapons are not so fit for women : For albeit that Penthesilia , Artemisia , Semiramis , Camilla , Cleopatra , Talasqua , the Amazonian Ladies , and manie others did vse them valiantly , yet were they mighty Queenes , and puissant in armes , of whose estate and nobilitie , I intend not to speake . To proceed further , I doe altogither equall composed nobility , both of the man and woman , and therfore I need not stand any longer thereon . As concerning ciuile nobilitie , it is diuers waies purchased by women , and not as men doe attaine thereunto . For as much as any womā though she be not noble by birth , yet may she become noble , by the inseparable knot of mariage , if shee ioine her selfe in matrimony to a noble man : for diuine mariage beeing of so great vertue , doth of two bodies , make one flesh ; so that shee is made noble by the nobilitie of her husband , enlightened with his beames , cloathed with his dignities , enioieth his priuiledges , receiueth with him the same preheminences , and in her are noted all such graces as her husband hath : and by the power of mariage a woman doth forsake the name of her owne family , and taketh the name of her husbands house ; & shee doth not onlie take the name , but retaineth the other qualities of her husband . So that if a woman be only naturally borne , I meane that if shee bee borne illegitimate , shee becommeth legitimate if shee be ioined in mariage with a husband lawfully borne , because as I saide shee receiueth from her husband the same qualities he enioieth . Seeing it is so ( saide the Lady Aurelia ) that a woman borne of no noble bloud , being ioyned in mariage with a gentlemā , becommeth noble , what shall we say to the contrary hereof , if a gentlewoman do mary with one of the common sort , shall he be made noble by the nobilitie of his wife ? No surely ( quoth Nennio ) but rather the nobility she had before is cleane quenched . That is great wonder answered the Lady , & I knowe not howe that shoulde come to passe , that the woman should receiue nobility from the man , and not the husband by his wife . Surely it seemeth a very strang thing vnto me . But like as in all other things you men are wōt to keep vs silly women as low as you can , to the end you may preuaile in al your enterprises , euē so do you in this . Whereunto he presently answered . You women are alwaies angry , and mistrustfull , perswading your selues , that in matters of the worlde , especially in such as doe concerne you , we do proceede as we list , hauing no regarde of you at all , but I say that you are all in generall greatly deceiued . Do not you know Madā , that the husband is the gouernor , the guide , & the head of his wife , & not the wife of her husband ? Certainly he is ; & euen as the head is the most : worthy member of the body , so it is no wonder if the husband as the head , doth ennoble the wife , as his member . Now the husband being the principal captain , the wife who followeth him , is therin to follow the nature of her principal head : but this hapneth not cōtrarily , for thē the course of nature shuld be clean chāged . If thē the nature of the husbād be noble , without doubt y e woman , albeit she be ignoble by birth , she shall by him be made noble : if he be abiect , & base , although she be discended of noble family , she shal likewise be ignoble . And to declare this more plainely vnto you Madā , you cannot deny , but that the children that come of an ignoble father , though the mother be noble , shal be reputed amongst the common sort : & those that are begotten of a noble father , albeit the mother be ignoble , yet shal they by the people be held in the rācke of noble men . Likewise we see al men set vp the fathers armes , & not the mothers , in their houses , at burials , in the church , & else where . And not only this hath place in their armories , but the son taketh the name of his fathers house , & not of the mothers , which is manifest to al men . You may see then , that you haue no cause to be offended with vs , whē as your selfe may giue iudgment in this matter . And you know right wel , that the son is not to follow the honor , nor dignity , the greatnes , y e cōditions , nor the nobility of the mother , but of the father Yet doe I not denie but in the birth of man , some beames of nobilitie do shine from the mother , which togither with the nobility of the father , doth make it more pleasing , and delightful , not that of it selfe it is sufficiēt to make a mā noble , as you may haue vnderstood . But because I haue this day farther enlarged my discourse , then my meaning was ( so that we cannot longer staie thereon , because that time doth more and more force our departure from hence , and to take our recreation in some other place , ) I will set apart all other reasons and doubtes of nobilitie , which might happen in our discourse , and come to the determining of the matter in question . You haue hearde ( vvorthie gentlemen ) these three daies , a discourse of nobilitie , no lesse pleasing to the eares , then delightfull to the vnderstanding . Of the which in the two first daies discourse , are gathered two opinions . The one , that true nobilitie consisteth in blood and riches , and not in vertue onely : the other , that it consisteth in the vertues of the minde , and not in blood , nor riches . And albeit that they seeme cleane contrarie , the one to the other , by that which Possidonio , and Fabricio related ( vvho were rather carried vvith affection then reason , which is not to bee wondered at , seeing that they beeing guided vvith passion of minde , each of them did seeke the defence of his ovvne matter and not anie other mans : ) notvvithstanding I doe not iudge them cleane contrarie : for if they vvere , one of them shoulde bee nobilitie , and the other shoulde not , vvhich I vvoulde not for anie thing affirme , it beeing a matter resolued , that a great part of men ( vvhereof I haue reckoned vppe a good portion ) doe iudge , repute , and holde him to be noble , who is ingendred of noble blood , and I likewise ( for manie reasons before alleadged ) doe take parte vvith them , although that thou vventest about yesterdaie Fabricio verie subtillie to prooue that such a one was not noble : And that thou on the other side Possidonio , vvert verie earnest to maintaine for certaine , that vertue did not make a man excellent , and noble , and that learning was but vaine in matter of nobilitie , wherein thou wert farre deceiued : proouing moreouer that riches was the soueraigne good of man ; and Fabricio that they were occasion of all euill . Certainlie both of you did shewe , that beeing drawen vvith the passion of the minde , each of you did speake your pleasure : for indeede they are not of themselues neither good , nor euill , but a meane betweene both , and such , as by vse we doe make them . For if wee bestowe them badlie , they are surelie euill ; if we spende them vvell , I see no cause vvhy they shoulde bee euill . They are not necessarie vnto true nobility , yet doe they bring some aide thereunto , in as much as there is no vertue in the world , nor any dignity , that can be gotten without these meanes , especially in this age , as of late I said vnto you . And hee that desireth them to the intent he may bee a helpe vnto others , is not to be blamed , so that this his affection do not surpasse a certain tēpered mediocrity . But leauing all these discourses apart , and intending ( Possidonio , and Fabricio ) to come to the conclusion of our speech . God knoweth whether it grieueth mee , or not , to giue sentence this daie , because I am certaine ▪ that the pronouncing thereof cannot be , without the disquieting of the thoughtes , vexing of the heart , and griefe of minde vnto one of you . Neuerthelesse ( quoth both of them , with a willing minde ) speake freelie for all that : for it may bee , vvee shall depart from hence with more loue , and kindnesse , when we haue heard the determinate end of our disputation , then when we came hither ; like as in wrastling , of necessitie one of vs must needes take a fall . Whereunto Nennio answered : you did both of you promise mee so much , before I did receiue the charge of so heauy a burthen . But howsoeuer it fall out , that I may commit no error , I wil this day shew my selfe conformable to the opinion of the Emperour Gismond , who being reprehended by some of his familiar friends , because he did aduance men of base birth , yet adorned with vertue , and not such as were borne of noble bloud : He answered . As for me , I will exalt such as ought to bee preferred before any other men liuing , and those from whom true nobilitie proceedeth : which opinion because it agreeth with reason I intende to followe . Wherefore I saie , that like as it is a thing worthy greater commendation , to builde a newe pallace , to stoare it with moueables , and to inhabite it , then it is onlie to dwel therein : so is he worthy of far more greater glorie who of himselfe becommeth noble , then hee who is simplie borne noble : and for this cause therefore ( and many more , no lesse pregnant , then true reasons heretofore alleadged , ) I iudge , and determine this : that the nobilitie of the minde , is farre more true , and farre more perfect , then the nobility of blood conioyned with riches : and consequently thou Possidonio , beeing noble by birth only , and Fabricio by the vertues of his minde , as hath a long time beene prooued vnto you , I say that he is famous with more height and perfection of nobility , and so likewise worthy of more honour and glorie then thou art . And therefore giue the victory of the question in cōtrouersie , togither with the prize , vnto thee Fabricio , as to the most noble . Nennio hauing spoken in this wise , he helde his peace , & Fabricio hauing yeelded him due thanks for his iust sentence , with very good wordes , without any longer stay , with a good grace hee tooke the ring , and turning towards Possidonio , he spake vnto him in this manner . I will neuer permit but that thou likewise shalt be partaker of this sentence Possidonio , for if it hath beene fauourable vnto me , it shal likewise in parte bee pleasing vnto thee , and therefore the Ring shal remaine with thee , which yet thou shalt not weare in remembrance of the Ladie Virginia who gaue it , but of me . So he extending his hand gaue him the ring , and albeit that oftentimes hee refused it , yet in the ende being constrained thereunto by the companie , hee tooke it in signe of brotherlie friendship . Scarse were these laste wordes ended , and the ring giuen by Fabricio , accepted of by Possidonio , but all the Ladies with a cheerefull countenance did rise vppe from their places , to shevve themselues after the fashion of women , that they were glad and wel pleased with Fabricio , all their voices being heard , but the Lady Camilla was louder then any of the rest , reioicing cspeciallie at his victorie , who being likewise risen , & with a quicke and speedie pace , marching towardes the greene Oliue trees of the garden ( for shee knewe right in what estimation the leaues thereof were , and how much worthy of commendation he was , who was deseruedlie crowned with them ) hauing broken some branches of them she suddenlie made a garland of them interlaced with flowers , such as yong maidens are wont to make : and therewithal ( with her owne handes ) shee crowned Fabricio , vsing these speeches vnto him with a womanlie voice . Thou shalt we are it in signe of victorie . Wee likewise being risen from our places , and being met togither in the galleries , and standing at the windovves which looked towards the garden , from whence a sweet gale of wind did blowe , wee still did discourse amongst our selues of that which had passed , & especiallie of the determining of the disputation , and of the victorie purchased by Fabricio : All of them equally commending no lesse the ready liberality of Fabricio , in bestowing the ring vpon Possidonio , then his good mind in accepting thereof : who albeit he had not gotten the victorie in this controuersie , yet in debating the matter with Fabricio , hee alleadged no weake reasons thereby to haue become conquerour . Thus we remained there vntill supper time approched , when as the tables being couered , vnder the fresh ayre , after that we had supped with great contentment of vs all , wee passed the rest of the night in sport and pastime , vntill it was time to go to bed . And before we departed from thence , wee all with one consent gaue order , hovv vve should spend y e next day folowing ▪ which albeit it was passed in honest and pleasaunt exercise , yet did I not determine to enter into any further discourse therof . That which hath bin spoken this day ( being the last ) in reuerence of him who gouerneth al things , and who by his heauenlie will hath hitherto beene my guide , and conductor , shal at this time be sufficient . FINIS . 
A36790	----	The antient usage in bearing of such ensigns of honour as are commonly call'd arms with a catalogue of the present nobility of England / by William Dugdale ... ; to which is added, a catalogue of the present nobility of Scotland and Ireland, &c. Dugdale, William, Sir, 1605-1686. 1682 Approx. 329 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 117 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2003-01 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A36790 Wing D2478 ESTC R231444 12142728 ocm 12142728 54873 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A36790) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 54873) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 761:3, 2482:15) The antient usage in bearing of such ensigns of honour as are commonly call'd arms with a catalogue of the present nobility of England / by William Dugdale ... ; to which is added, a catalogue of the present nobility of Scotland and Ireland, &c. Dugdale, William, Sir, 1605-1686. [7], 210 p. : coats of arms. Printed at the Theater for Moses Pitt ..., Oxford [Oxfordshire] : 1682. Advertisement: prelim. p. [1]. "Addenda" and "Errata": prelim. p. [6]-[7]. Reproduction of original in:Henry E. Huntington Library and Folger Shakespeare Library. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. 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In general, first editions of a works in English were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably Latin and Welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so. Image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. Quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in Oxford and Michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet QA standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. After proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. Any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor. The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines. Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Heraldry -- England -- Early works to 1800. Nobility -- Great Britain. Nobility -- Scotland. Nobility -- Ireland. 2002-06 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2002-07 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2002-08 Emma (Leeson) Huber Sampled and proofread 2002-08 Emma (Leeson) Huber Text and markup reviewed and edited 2002-10 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion ADVERTISEMENT . THat the First , Second , and Third Volumes of the Great English ATLAS are now finish'd ( the Fourth Volume being in the Press ) . A View of the late Troubles in England , from the year 1637 to 1660. By Sir William Dugdale Knt. Garter Principal King of Arms. Bibles , Testaments , and Common Prayers , in all Volumes : Also all Books Printed at the Theater : Are sold by M. Pitt at the Angel in St. Paul's Church-yard London . THE ANTIENT USAGE In Bearing of such Ensigns of Honour As are commonly call'd ARMS . WITH A Catalogue of the present NOBILITY of ENGLAND . By Sir WILLIAM DUGDALE Knt. Garter Principal King of Arms. To which is added , A Catalogue of the present NOBILITY of SCOTLAND and IRELAND , &c. OXFORD : Printed at the Theater , for Moses Pitt at the Angel in St. Paul's Church-Yard , London , 1682. To the right Honourable ROBERT Earl of AYLESBURY , Deputy , with his Majesties approbation , to the most Noble HENRY Duke of NORFOLK Earl-Marshal of ENGLAND . My Lord SUch have been the extravagant Actings of Paynters , and other Mechanicks in this licentious Age ; that , to satisfie those , who are open handed to them , they have not stuck to depict Arms only for divers younger branches of Families with undue distinctions , if any at all ; but to allow them to such as do bear the same appellation , though of no alliance to that stock : the permission whereof hath given such encouragement to those , who are guilty of this boldness , that there are not a few who do already begin to prescribe , as of right thereto : so that these Marks of Honour , called Arms , are now by most people grown of little esteem : for apparent it is , that they make the Crescent , which is the known filial distinction for the second Son , to be also the only proper difference of the Grandson and heir of that second Son , and of his heires male ; and a Mullet upon a Crescent , and a Martlet upon the same Mullet to be the distinction for a fourth Son of a third Brother , whose Father was the second Son of the chief stock : and according to that rule do , for the most part , frame their Differences for others . Against this absurd usage therefore , I have thought it requisite , not only to offer to your Lordship the light of reason , which ought to be the principal guide ; but the irrfragable Authoritie of several persons of great Learning and high estimation for their knowledge in points of Honour and Arms : and likewise to give instance by sundry important presidents , as to the usage of ancient times , when order and regularity were held in repute : not doubting but that your Lordship will in this point be so far satisfyed , as that for the future some restraint may be put to those undue practises . Resting Your Lordships most obedient Servant WILLIAM DUGDALE Garter principal King of Arms. 10. Junij 1681. ADDENDA pag. 148. l. 20. An. 1681. Car. 2. xxxiii . 865 Nov. 17 Sir George Jefferys of Bulstrode Knight one of his Majesties Serjeants at Law , and chief Justice of Chester created Baronet and to the heires male of his body by Ann his now wife , and for default of such Issue , to the heires male of his body . Buck. 866 Dec. 6 Hugh Middleton of Hackney Esq Midd. ERRATA . P. 17. l. 5. r. petite y. Ib. l. 13. r. Henoursi p. 21. l. 8. r. retained . p. 23. l. 11. r. Eleury . p. 24. l. 7. r. Hooke . p. 26. l. 7. r. grateful . p. 37. l. 5. r. tres . p. 47. l. 5. r. flos . p. 51. l. penul . r. Aspilogia . p. 52. l. 28. r. conspectioribus . p. 54. l. 2. r. Ercaloue . p. 57. l. 27 r. Ercaleue . p. 59. l. 4. r. Estoille . p. 60. l. 6. r. augmenteront . p. 64. l. 3. from the bottom r. round . p. 81. l. 17. r. Gosfeild . p. 82. l. 11. after E. of Down add Extinct . p. 100. l. 19. r. Ferrers . p. 113. l. 18. r. of the houshold to K. Charles the second . p. 126. l. 27. r. Wakeman . The Patent was in grossed but never sealed . p. 146. l. 18. r. Kent . P. 149. l. 7. from the bottom r. Agmondesham . p. 151. betwixt l. 24. and 25. add W. shire Carnarvon P. M. 2. Burg. 1. and Knight 1. p. 154. l. 28. r. P. M. 18. Barens of the Cinq . P. 8. p. 155. l. 15. r. Lestuthiel . p. 159. l. ult . add P. M. 28. Barons of the Cinq . P. 8. p. 160. l. 19. after Great-Wendlock strike out Burg. 2. p. 161. l. 5. r. Burg. 2. l. 9. r. North-Yarmouth v. Great . Yarmouth . p. 162. . 19. after Rumney add Sandwich . THE ANTIENT USAGE In Bearing of ARMS . THat these Ensignes of Honour , as are commonly called Armes , which of later times have been chiefly used for distinction of families , had their original from the practise of great Commanders in War , is not unknown to the learned : for certain it is , that the faces of all great military Officers , being obscured by such Hoods and Helmets as were antiently worn in times of Battel ; it was expedient , that by some other meanes their persons should be notifyed to their friends and followers . Necessity therefore requiring it , they , depicted upon their Sheilds ( which were borne for the defence of their Bodies ) as also upon their Surcotes of silke , Banners , Penons &c. certain Badges , that might make them known at a distance from each other . Of which sort those that were most conspicuous ; viz Crosses , Bends , Fesses , Cheverons , Saltiers &c. all single chardges being ever held the best . In bearing whereof ( as appeareth by divers old Rolls of Armes ) such order was observed that none might assume anothers marke ; but that there should be a plain and apparent difference in each man's Sheild , Surcote , Banner , Penon , &c. to the end , that upon any disorder the common Souldier might know his leader , and the better repair to his succour in case of danger . But these later times having devised other sorts of Armour and weapons , both for offence and defence then of old were used ; those marks and Badges in Sheilds , Surcotes &c. have been for divers past ages , as to any such military purpose , totally layed aside ; and since meerly retained as honourary Ensignes by the Nobility and Gentry ; especially to difference themselves and their families from the vulgar , and one from another : as also to distinguish the collateralls from those of the principal stock ; for if they do not so , what do they signify ; or of what use are they ? In all which the Kings of Armes , in their respective provinces were to see due order observed . Nevertheless such hath been the inadvertencie of sundry Gentlemen , in not regarding the ill consequence which the breach of order herein doth produce ; as that , going to common Paynters to depict and marshall their Arms , seldom any regular Differences have been assigned by them for the descendents of younger Brothers ! Which extravagant practise hath occasion'd such confusion therein ; that this laudable and antient usage in bearing of Arms , on which our forefathers did set an high esteem , is now overmuch sleighted and almost grown contemptible . It cannot be denyed , but that in the best times good order was not by every one exactly observed : for I find , that in the reign of Q. Elizabeth there were some unjustifiable practises in this kind : But , in this last age , through the liberty taken by divers mechanicks since the commencement of the late unparallel'd Rebellion , the disorder herein is so far spread , as if greater care be not speedily taken , such a confusion must inevitably follow , that the true use of Arms will be utterly forgot ; most people , though of never so mean extraction ; if they obtain a little wealth , intruding themselves into these Marks of Honour , and usurping what doth justly belong to others , especially if their name doth sound any thing like that of a Gentleman . Seeing therefore these things relating to Honour to be thus out of square , I have here thought fit to add to what I have already briefly sayd , the Authorities and opinions of the most learned men in Herauldry and Antiquities that this last age hath produced : from whose writings I have selected some particulars , which will amply corroborate what is here asserted . Beginning with what was publisht in print by Mr. William Wyrley ( a Staffordshire Gentleman ) an . 1592 ( 34 Eliz : ) and intituled The true use of Armes , but written by Sampson Erdswike then of Sandon , in that county Esq ( whose deserved fame for his great knowledg in these commendable Studies is still fresh and flourishing in all those parts . ) * Next proceeding with what I have observed from an excellent but short discourse in elegant Latin De Origine et Antiquitate Armorum , written likewise in the same Q. Eliz. time ( but never printed ) by Robert Glover Esq then Somerset-Herauld , whose great abilities in this kind of learning I cannot sufficiently extoll ; his most elaborate and judicious work , intituled The Catalogue of Honour , published after his death by Mr. Thomas Mills his Executor in an . 1610 and the voluminous Collections from our publick Records , and sundry choice old Manuscripts , as also from original Charters and Evidences of note ( which I my self have seen , but which are now disperst into sundry hands ) sufficiently setting forth his great abilities therein . From which discourse ; viz. De Origine et Antiquitate Armorum &c. I have selected certain observations , and added them to this work ; whereby his great judgment as to this point of Differences in Arms is cleerly shewed . So likewise from what the learned Camden , Sir Henry Spelman and others have expressed upon this subject ; and given most evident instances of the laudable practise of antient times herein . I shall begin with what I find so publisht by Mr. Wyrley ( but penn'd by Mr. Erdswike ) To the Right Honourable the LORDS and others the Professors of Martial Discipline . NObles and Gentlemen , I will salute you with a sentence of mine Author Sir John Froysard , The adventures of Arms ( saith he ) are so divers , and so far oftentimes beyond expectation , as that their effects causeth great admiration : which saying of his , caused me with the more attention to read over his works , and finding the same most truly prosecuted through the whole course of his History , but espacially in the actions and adventures of two famous Captains Sage and Imaginative , the one Sir John Chandos , and the other Sir † John Grayllie by name ( commonly called the Captall de Buz ) it delighted me ( as a lover of Honour and chevalry ) to note * down their several fortunes with some reasons of their falls . I have been careful to set down ( as my manner is ) the Standards , Pennons , Cote-armours ; and other marks of Honour , to the end it may publickly be known of what necessity the use of them is , ( as being for that cause first ordained : ) how and in what manner they are to be used , and to whom they do of right most chiefly and properly appertain and belong . And these matters being well conceived ( as indeed without such Tokens no martial discipline can be exercised , no Army ranged , no attempt of any company atchieved ; and so ( by cnnsequence ) no conquest made , nor so much as any Common-wealth ( whatsoever ) defended , neither ftom outward enemies , civil discord , nor the rebellion of any plebeian rout . Be the same never so simple , rude , or of small esteem it will ( I hope ) reduce into estimation a matter both of Honour , order , and Necessity , which now ( through the abuse thereof ) is so far run into contempt , as that ( of many men ) it is holden for a thing of no price , but thought to be a very mockery , and a matter of no other sequence , then to set up vain and fantastical glorious fellows into a pride , and to draw from them some small summes to certain persons into an office instituted , which no doubt was by the wisest and best governed states at the first devised , and generally by all of any pollicy received , to a most necessary end : yet think they ( as it is now in use ) it serveth but only for that purpose . And indeed I must by the way complain , that certain of the said officers ( or others pertaining to them ) either for want of skill or maintenance , or otherwise for their gain , have committed faults not justifiable , whereby they have brought a matter of great Honour into defame , and injured thereby the Commonwealth , and brought both others that have managed those affairs with more discretion , and themselves into obloquy . But these faults and errors , and some others also ( spoken of in this dedication instituted to that purpose ) will in the handling of this matter more easily appear ; and the thing be ( I hope ) reformed , either by the good endeavors which the officers ( understanding thereof ) will use , or else by the magistrate , when he shall have knowledg of such the abuses as he may be informed of . And first that Guydhomes , Ensignes , and marks of Armory be of necessity , let it be but considered whether wars be sometimes of necessity to be taken in hand or not ; and surely I think there is none of so very mean capacity , but will yeild unto it that they be : especially defensive , and in some cases also offensive : which as a thing granted I will overpass . And when I say further , that wars being lawful and of necessity , it must also be granted , that the same must be made by companies and bands of men , over which some must command , and the rest obey , and then will it follow , that for the ordering and dividing of those to the best advantage , Standards and Banners must be allotted to every company , to the end they may draw together in their strength , and perform such actions as they shall be commanded ; thus may you see the necessity . And for the use , it doth also appear , that sithence some must be commanders , it is of importance that they be known , both by the persons over whom they command , and generally by all ; and that so perspicuously that upon every sudden occurrent , the meanest and simplest common souldier may thereby know every particular officer , and captain that hath charge : for which purpose our Ancestors device was , that such men should wear some such coat of mark over his Armor , as whereby they might be easily discerned , to be the same persons which indeed they were : and where somtimes ( when occasion so offered itself ) they were forced to use Pavishes for their defence , whereby a great part of the mark which was upon their vesture , was shadowed from sight , it was thought necessary that their marks should be also laid upon their shields : the commanders of Horse-men ( their faces being for the most part covered ) they added to the crests of their Helmets some further distinction to be the better also known by : Thus much for the ordinance and use of Armory . And hereby also may it appear to whom they do properly belong and appertain , namely , to Kings , Princes , Archbishops , Bishops , Earls , Barons , Lords of provinces and fees ; Knights ; officers in the Army , Navy or peece , and generally to all that have charge over Bands and companies of souldiers . And now sithence from henceforth many of my speeches will tend to the discovery of such things as I take to be abused , erronious , or faulty , wherein I may peradventure not square in opinion with some others ; and being myself no officer or of any authority , whereby I should have cause to deal in these affairs , I will therefore first beseech your Honours , and all others to whom it may appertain , that if any thing shall pass my pen which shall be offensive , that they will conceive no worse of it then I mean , which is but to bring these matters of Armory into question ; to the end that if any thing be amiss ( as I for my part think that many things are ) that then the same may be reformed : but if happily I mistake , that then it would please such as be of judgment or skill , to justifie the same as well done , and I shall most willingly yield to authority and reasons . And so not speaking but under correction , I say that , first I find ( as I conceive ) some blame to be imputed in your selves which be professed souldiers , that where your ancestors and all others generally did in their Standards , Banners , and Pennons shew forth to the view and face of the enemy , certain fair , antient , and known marks , which their elders for the most part had usually before time carried , or at least themselves had then taken ( if they but then were in their rising age ) whereby their own people were in a goodly decent order conducted and led , and their enemies very much terrified , when they should see those marks shewed forth ; the owners whereof had in their memories by plain feat of Arms overthrown their parents , or happely themselves , beaten them out of the field , razed down their castels and fortresses , sacked their towns and cities , wasted and spoiled their countries , ransomed their people , and generally so daunted and amazed them , that it , was sometimes found to be true , that very bare names of some valiant persons overcame whole Armies : I can but blame you of all sorts , which shall make choice of Banners ( which you call colors ) so curtein-like and so far from all due order of Ancient bearing as may be ; and for your parts which are descended from Ancestors of mark , I would be glad to hear any reason from you , to what end you should lay the same aside , and make choice of a curtein in the place thereof . And you others ( whose wisdom and valure have gained you the reputation of a charge ) I would gladly also hear from you what should move you to be of that mind , as not to take some convenient mark , such a one as may be thought meet by authority for you , whereby you may gain an honour , both to your selves and your posterity , and by your good usage thereof much enlarge the reputation , you have by your valours obtained . An other thing that is amiss , as I take it , and hath great need to be reformed , is the quartering of many Marks in one shield , coat , or Banner ; for sithence it is true , that such Marks serve to no other use but for a commander to lead by , or to be known by , it is of necessity that the same be apparent , fair , and easie to be discerned ; so that the quartering of many of them together , doth hinder the use for which they are provided . As how is it possible for a plain unlearned man ( who may be as good a souldier in some respects as the best ) to discern and know a sunder , six or eight , ( what speak I of six or eight ? ) sometimes thirty or forty several marks clustered all together in one shield or Banner , nay though he had as good skill as Robert Glover late Somerset that dead is , and the eyes of an Eagle , amongst such a confusion o● things , yet should he never be able to decipher the errors that are daily committed in this one point , nor discern or know one Banner or Standard from another , be the same never so large ? So that except it be to be made in a pedigree or descent to lock up in an evidence chest , thereby to shew mens titles to their lands or the Alliences and kindreds of their houses ; otherwise ( as I say ) I see not to any use in the world they serve , specially so many together to be made upon a mans vesture , Target or Banner ; and therefore I could wish that every man would content himself with his own peculiar coat of name , and not to use above one quartered therewith at the most : which one yet doth not so much trouble the capacity of a man , but that he may both know and discern a Banner or shield well enough . And this one do I the rather esteem well of to be born , for that a Prince or Noble man making challenge or title to any Country ( for which he is forced to make wars before he can obtain it ) it will be a goodly thing for him to shew forth his Standard of the Arms of that Country quartered with his own amongst those people which in reason and conscience owe him duty and obedience , to the end that they may thereby be the sooner induced to submit themselves to their true and lawful Soverain , as his subjects . And for that cause ( as I take it ) King Edward the third and his valiant sons devised and shewed forth the Arms of France and England quartered together , and although my Authour saith that Jaques * Dartvell , was the first deviser thereof , yet will I not believe otherwise , but that the principal reasons that led the King thereto , was to make known the justness of his title to that kingdom where he then intended to make wars . But now it may be objected , sithence a Prince or great Lord may have title to several Countries , that therefore it is necessary for him to beare all such tokens or marks as he hath title too : To this I answer , that although I could yeild to them ( but that it will bring the eonfusion aforesaid ) yet is it of no such necessity , for that a man needs to shew his title but onely to them whom he means to subdue : and if it should fortune that he had title to divers and several countries , and that he would make wars to them all at once , yet should it not be needful to him to shew forth any more marks quartered in one Standard , but onely unto every several Country the Arms of that nation quartered with his own . But this being the case of Kings and Princes , wherein ( amongst others ) our most famous , noble and worthy Kings and princes of this land , have shewed themselves most prudent and wise ; to what purpose is it , that others bring out commanders under their prince , and which of themselves have neither title to country nor are able to maintain wars , should in their princes service pester their Banners and shields with such an infinite number as many do ? And in this point I cannot enough commend the Baron of Stafford , who herein sheweth his great skill and temperance ; for although his Ancestors have had title to quarter the marks of that valiant Thomas of Woodstock ( youngest son of King Edward the third ) Earl of Buckingham and Duke of Glocester ; of Bohune Earl. of Hereford and Northamton and high Cunstable of England : and also of that great house of Somerset , which by their ancestors John Earl of Somerset , ( younger son to John of Gaunt ) descended from the same king Edward the third , ( I omit to speak of divers Barons and others of great estate , whose heires both with revenue and honor enlarged greatly his family ) yet the said Baron contents himself with the paternal mark of his house . It were to be wished that this matter of Quartering should be reformed , as well for untruths therein oftentimes committed , as for the titles that may be brought in question thereby to lands and Heritages : And as being one of the chiefest things that bringeth honour of Armory into disgrace : for not long ago heard I one speak in this manner , Did I not ( quoth he ) know the grandfather of this man ( speaking of the owner of a Scuchion wherein were quartered many marks ) to purchase by plain patent ( although he never were man at Armes ) both his coat and crest within these forty years , and how comes it now to pass that I see his nephew invested in all this Armory ? ( numbring many and divers several devices , all in one shield , by way of quartering ) this being a very mockery to see a man of no valour or estimation in warlike affairs , and the paternal Ancestors of whom ( for ought that can be proved ) were not in any late age welders of Arms , to entrude themselves into so many Badges of Armory , is not the least matter to bring into contempt an order so honourable and necessary as the bearing of Arms is . Differences in Arms to younger children , and their Descendents . Another matter that to my understanding is also to be reformed , is the manner of differings , which are by the younger Brothers and their posterities laid upon their marks , being cressants , mollets , &c. and that such little ones , as that a man cannot discern them a very small distance from him , which differences are in reason to be made fair , plain , and large , that they may be also as easie to be discover'd as any other Devise that is in the Coat , Shield , or Banner , otherwise they serve not to the purpose for which marks were first ordained . And the inconvenience which ensueth of this error will the more easily appear , if I but set you down the words of mine Author ( treating of an accident that happened in such a case ) which be these : Et feist Mr. Robert Baileul alter sa Banniere tout devant en escriant Moriannes les Henuiers qui ia estoint esthauses Aperceurent la Banniere de Moriannes qui encore estoit tout Droicte , si cuiderent que ce feust la leur ou ilz se deuoient radresser , car mult petitey auoit de difference de lune a l'autre ; car les Armes Moriennes sount Barres contre Barres d' Argent & d' Azure a deux Cheverons de Gueules , Et le cheveron de Mr. Robert auoit vne petite crosete d'or , si ne l'adviserent mye bien les Hennuiers ainsi vindrent bouter de fait dessubs la Banniere de Mr. Robert , si furent moult fierement reboutes et tous discomfis . For these Honours being led by Sir William Baileul thought in the stir and business to have come to his Banner hearing the surname of Moriens called upon ; and seeing as they supposed , their captains ensigne , and the difference of Sir Robert , being the younger Brother , but a little cross upon the upper cheuron , they could not appercieve ; so that the most of them were either slain or taken , and the elder Brother ( the Knight their leader ) was glad to save himself as well as he might : The Lord of Cowcie son in law to King Edward the third , suffered also reproch through the hard dealings of the Lord of Chine , who raised his Banner against certain Englishmen of Sir Hugh Caveleys company , being either the same that Cowcies : was , or the difference so small as might not be discerned , whereby the said Lord Cowcy though he were abs●nt as far as Austrich , had dishonour spoken of him , as in the discourse * of the Capital I have touched . Thus then having shewed , by example , the harm and inconvenience , that cannot but many times happen , through the littleness and niceness of such differences , I have thought it not amiss to lay before you the differings that antiquity used ; that by comparing them together , you may discern the great wisdom of our ancestors , and our own imperfections in this point , for want of due consideration : which was done at the first by changing of the device born into other colors only ; but when that would not suffice for the number of leaders ( many times all of one house ) then were they forced to vary their marks by adding of either Bars , Bends , cheurons , cheefes , quarters , Borders , labels , losinges , or such like , and very seldome should you see in those times cressant , mollet , or such like small thing born for a difference ; and if any did , yet was the same so large and fair that it might be seen as well as any other device which should be in the Shield or Banner . And for the proof , I will give you the example but of one house onely for your better information ( though I could do the like of many others ) namely , that of the Bassets , who indeed ( in my judgment ) varied their marks of honour very finely and that upon good respect : A multitude more as my authour hath already hinted , ( were it not for brevityes sake ) might be instanced from the practise of sundry branches of Noble-families , whereof I shall only make mention of some few which are not unknown to most pretenders to Herauldry . Such are those of Grey of Codnore , and Grey of S●ndiacre in Derbyshire ; Grey of Barton in Ridale , in com . Ebor. Grey of Wilton in com . Hereford ; Grey of Ruthyn in com . Denbigh ; Grey of Groby in com Leic. and Grey Vicount L'isle . Of Beauchamp Earl of Warwick ; Beauchamp of Holt ; Beauchamp of Powick , and Beauchamp of St. Amand. Of Nevill Earl of Westmorland , Nevill Earl of Salisbury ; Nevill Earl of Warwick ; Nevill Lord Latimer ; Nevil Lord Abergaveny . Of Stafford Duke of Buckingham ; Stafford of Pipe ; Stafford of Bromshull , ( both in Staffordshire ; ) Stafford of Graston in Worcestershire ; Stafford of Haske in com . Dorset and Stafford of Blatherwick in com . Northampton . ; Of Berkley Lord Berkley of Berkley-castle in com . Glouc. Berkly of Beverston in the same County ; Berkley of Bruton in com . Somerset and Berkley of Wymundham in com Leic. ; Of Cobham Lord Cobham of Cobham in Kent ; Cobham of Sterborough in Surrey ; Cobham of Black-burgh in com . Devon. and Cobham of Belmerle in com Cantii . Of Radcliffe Earl of Sussex ; Radcliffe of Smethels ; Radcliffe of Drdsale , and Radcliffe of Chaderton . All retaining the original Armes , but distinguisht by various eminent differences . Likewise of Noell Vicount Campden ; Noell of Kirkby in Leicestershire ; Noell of Hilcote , and Noell of Pelshall ( both in Stafforshire ) and others of that Antient family . Thus have I set down unto you ( though something tediously ) the use that antiquity followed in a very glorious line , for Lords , Knights and Gentlemen , which flourished divers hundreds of years sithence : And you may see that these men ( though they were many of them great Barons ) were not ashamed of their Differences , but laid them forth largely to the view ; neither do I esteem it a shame whereby any man should covet to hide the same , to be descended as a younger Brother , sithence that every Brother ( having the like parents ) is as well descended as the eldest , and therefore as good a Gentleman ( though not so rich ) as he . And the more is his honour , if without the help which by reason of his patrimony the elder hath , he can advance himself into place of office or dignity , whereby he may raise an other flourishing family of the same surname : and therefere you my masters that be younger Brothers , never hide your Differences by putting forth a little cressant or a peeping mollet , but use some fair large device , sithence in truth your estimation is by your rising to be had in as good a regard as if you were the elder . And now being in speech of younger Brothers and their differences , I have observed two kinds of them which antiquity used , ( besides the aforesaid ) one was , that such as were advanced by Kings , Princes , or other great Lords , did many times bear some part of the device of him who advanced them , by way of addition unto the mark of their own family , which served very aptly to distinguish them from their elder house . The other was , that divers did add unto the mark of their own house , some part of the device of that family from which their mothers descended ; and both these two kinds of differings are ( in my mind ) greatly to be commended , not only for that they may be made large and apparent , and for that cause serve very properly to the use for which Badges are ordained , but also that the one makes manifest a greatful mind ( in him that is advanced ) to his prince or lord of whom he received benefit , and by reason thereof linketh them together in a kind of amity , which seldom or never is worn out , and by that means a great strengthening it is unto both Houses . The other not only serveth to unite the families which have matched together in the foresaid love and amity , and thereby worketh the like effect ; but besides it sheweth the certainty of the descending of the said younger Brother out of both the said Houses , and also giveth knowledg of the time thereof , whereby if any title of inheritance be at any time cast upon the younger Brother , either descending from ancestor of the fathers side , or mothers , it gives him a testimony of his title , and witnesseth unto the world the truth of that descent by the continual bearing of that device , so that this kind may ( many times ) work profit to the bearer , and avoid many troubles and suits : and therefore into one of these kind of differing● could I wish our younger Brothers , which from henceforth shall be advanc'd , to invest themselves , as being both honourable , fair , certain , and profitable . But now it may be objected , that the order in use sheweth plainly enough the diversity of Brothers , as the cressant a second , the mollet the third , that by this means the matters are made certain . To this I answer , that first the time is not ( by this means ) signified , neither can it be known which of the Cressant-bearers was the Uncle or Nephew . And further , it is a very usual matter for every new Riser at this day , if he can find that there is any of the like Surname that beareth mark , presently to usurp the same with a Cressant , or some such difference , so that ( for my own part ) I do seldom credit such kind of differings nor their bearers , unless it be by some other testimony or proof made manifest , which cannot be counterfetted so well in the other device , except the riser should be throughly acquainted with the descent of him whose line he seeketh to intrude himself into . And besides , it may be the sooner espied by them of the true line and forbidden ; nor the other dare ( for fear thereof ) so soon venture the committing of a falsity . But what a confusion is it when you shall see the second of a second Brother , and sometimes an other second from him , to cluster one Cressant upon an other ; many times three or four , one on horseback upon an other ; where as by the aforesaid bearing of the difference from the Prince , Lord , or mothers family , a man may better distinguish the Brothers and set down for a second , a third , and fourth , &c. And after from those again , in a fairer , larger , and more apparent manner : and the more apt am I to speak against these ordinary Differences ( as they are called ) knowing them to be but new inventions , and any of them as ordinaries ( in Fashion as now they are ) never used before the time of King Henry the sixt ; before which time men were much more wary and discreet in bearing of their marks , and in foreseeing that no intruders should enter into their families ; nor that any should lay away or remove their Differings without special warrant or license of them that thereby might be prejudiced : for a Labell being much in use for the heire apparent ( to wear as his differeuce during his fathers life ) was seldom removed to the second Brother , but when the inheritance went unto the daughters of the elder Brother ; and then the second was permitted to bear the same for his Difference , as being the heire male of his family and as one that remained in expectancy ; yet might not the second Brother use to intrude himself into the absolute signs of his house ( the inheritance being in his neeces or kinswomen ) as appeared in the case between Gray of Ruthine and Hastings which was this : John Lord Hastings married to his first wife Izabell one of the sisters and heires of Almery de Vallence Earl of Penbrooke , by whom he had issue John Hastings , ( after Earl of Penbrooke ) Elizabeth , ( married to Roger Lord Gray of Ruthin ) and some other children which needs not to be spoken of ; for that , as I take it , all the lines of them fail'd before the extinguishing of the line of the said John Earl of Penbrooke . After ( such issue being had ) the said Izabel Vallence died , and the said John Lord Hastings took to a second wife Izabel the Daughter of Hugh Spenser , by whom he had issue Hugh Hastings , and Thomas , and then died , and left as heir John his son by his first Wife ( who was Earl of Penbrooke , as I have said , erected by reason of his mothers inheritance ) which John Earl of Penbrooke married and had issue another Earl of Penbrooke , who also married and had issue a third Earl of Penbrooke ; but in the end all the line of the said John Hastings ( first Earl of Penbrooke of that family ) failing , there arose a question betwixt the Heirs of Roger Gray and Elizabeth his wife being sister ( of the whole blood ) and the Heirs of Hugh Hastings brother ( of the half blood ) to the said John Earl of Penbrooke , for the inheritance of the Hastings . But Gray recovering the same ( by the law that saith , Possessio fratris de feodo simplici facit sororem esse haeredem ) called the said Hastings also ( having removed the difference of his mark for that he was then heir male of that house ) into the Court of chevalry , and there having a judgement against him , the said Hastings was compelled to use a Difference ( which was a Label of silver ) upon his mark , a fair red sleeve of his Ladies upon his golden vesture : since which the heirs of that younger family have used the said Labell even until this our age . So that you may see by this , that the law was then taken to be such , that such an heir male as had not the inheritance of his Ancestors should not be suffered to bear his mark without distinction ; for it should seem ( by this ) that the issue of them that had married the heir general of any family ( being by reason thereof possessed of the lands ) had not only an interest in the Arms , but might also forbid any man the bearing thereof . There is also another matter out of square , which is , that every man that obtaineth large possessions , ( whether the same be acquired by his judgment in law , traffick in merchandize , or any other mean ) yea although never any of his progenitors , ( from whom he can derive himself ) had the charge to lead men of Arms , will yet at this day intrude themselves into the Badges and marks of souldiers : for although such as be descended from men of martial discipline , have an interest in their ancestors marks ( amongst other their goods ) and therefore may shew forth the same to their predecessors glory , and their own ( in respect of their descent ) yet such men as rise by their sciences , judgments , or skill in other arts , affairs , or trades ( although they be to be reverenced for their wisdom and praiseful actions , and had in honour answerable to their vertues and dignities ) have yet little to do with the marks or Badges of soldiers . For altho a reverend Judg , that hath ministred law and justice a long time ( and that so long as that thereby to his great glory ) he hath obtained reputation , wealth , and revenue , is to be had in high estimation , and in respect thereof to have allow'd him some note or mark of Honour fit for his calling , yot ( to my simple judgment ) the same should be disposed unto him after the old Roman order , by signifying the manner of his rising , rather then to put a corselet on his back , a Burgonet on his head , a Target on his Arm , and a Sword by his side , being things that would cumber greatly the good old man to use , either for his own defence , or but to shew ( by way of triumph ) for his glory , sithence , neither is it tolerable ( by reason of his age ) nor in his youth did he exercise himself in welding thereof . And as these things are unseeming for him to wear , no more can I see any reason why he should deck up the moniments of his house with such signs or tokens , except he can derive himself from an ancestor that hath had the use of such things , and then ( to set them sorth as a glory to his deceased parent ) will greatly augment the regard of his rising , which rising yet ( of it self ) is a sufficient Honour , the same being by any just , vertuous , or laudable means . And these new risings I could wish to be of more reputation then they seem to be esteem'd of , either by others , or themselves that so rise ; as is apparent by many of their doings , who intrude themselves into marks of Antiquity , and setting forth of descents , wherein they are yet fain many times either to counterfet , or else to derive themselves from some poor parents , which they ( either truly , or by surmize ) alledge to have descended from some antient family , and that have been by some accident or other in former time decayed : wherein me thinks men do greatly mistake the matter , for that ( in my opinion ) a man that is but of mean parentage and riseth by commendable means , is equivalent to him that riseth from a decayed family , namely when his said parent hath been overthrown for offence , as many times they alleadge in plain terms . And I could wish that every man that raiseth a House by his good industry , should be honoured with some such Badge or Mark , as should be answerable to the quality of his rising ; and not every man of what condition soever they be , to entrude themselves into the signs and marks of souldiers , and such as follow the field with martial exploits . Some people also there are that be so precise , as that they do disallow altogether the setting forth of any memory of well deserving men , which have shewed themselves valiant either in the act of Religion , their Princes service , or defence of their Country ; neither allowing their posterity to set forth any memory of their praises , nor suffering any monuments or garnishments to remain of their Burials ; as tho it were a matter offensive to God to have good men well spoken of , or their valorous doings by their obsequies either reverenc'd , or by any records remembred . To such men I have not thought it amiss to shew them their error by directing them to such places of Scripture as do not only tolerate and allow of such actions , but also praise and commend the doing thereof , and in some sort charge and command the same to be done , whereby both they may ( if they be not obstinate ) reform their misconceived opinions , and others may be fortifyed in their praiseful endeavours towards the honouring of vertuous and worthy men , to the animating of posterity to imitate their laudable actions ; sithence indeed the chiefest matter that stirreth up men to do well next their zeal to God , and the love of vertue it self , is to think that not only their souls shall be rewarded with the mercies of God , but also that their doings shall be had in a reverent remembrance with the reports of all good men that shall speak of them . And first , that the using , bearing and setting forth of Banners , Ensigns and Marks of Armory are allowable by the sacred scriptures , it appeareth by the holy Evangelist Saint Luke recording the peregrination of Saint Paul , and speaking of Armory without reprehension ( which he would not have done had the use thereof been offensive ) in this sort : ( Act. Apost . cap. 28. v. 11. ) Post menses autem tres navigavimus in navi Alexandrina , quae in insula Hyemaverat cui erat insigne Castorum . And after three months we departed in a Ship of Alexandria , which had wintered in the Isle , whose Signs was Castor and Pollux . And in the book of Numeri , God by his prophet Moyses commandeth his people of Israel to devide and dispose themselves into companies by their Ensigns and Banners speaking unto them in these words : ( Num. Cap. 2. v. 1. 2 ) Locutusque est Dominus ad Moysen & Aaron , dicens , singuli , per turmas , Signa , atque vexilla , & domos cognationum suarum , castra-metabuntur , filiorum Israel per Gyrum tabernaculi foederis . And the Lord spake unto Moyses , and unto Aaron saying , Every man of the children of Israel shall pitch by their own Standard , with the Ensign of their father's house , far off about the Tabernacle of the Congregation shall they pitch . So that by this you may see , that as these matters be no new inventions of men , so they are also things allowable by the word of God. Neither do Obsequies or monuments ensuing worthy acts want the authority of Scriptures , for in the book of Numeri it is written thus : ( Num. cap. 31. v. 48. ) Cumque accessissent principes exercitus ad Moysen , & Tribuni , centurionesque dixerunt , nos serui tui recensuimus numerum pugnatorum , quos habuimus sub manu nostra : & ne unus quidem defuit , ob hanc causam offerimus in donarijs Domini singuli quod in praeda auri potui●us invenire , Periscelides & Armillas , Annulos & Dextralia ac Murenulas , &c. Et susceptum intulerunt in Tabernaculum testimonij in monimentum coram Domino . And the officers which were over thousands of the Host , the Captains of thousands and Captains of hundreds came near unto Moses and sayd thy servants have taken the summe of the men of war , which are under the chardge , and there lacketh no one man of us : we have therefore brought an oblation for the Lord , what every man hath gotten , of Jewels of Gold , Chains , and Bracelets , Ear-rings , and Tablets , &c. and brought it into the Tabernacle of the Congregation , for a memorial for the children of Israel before the Lord. And in another place of Numeri thus : ( Num. cap. 16. v. 36. ) Locutusque est Dominus ad Moysen dicens , praecipe Eliazaro filio Aaron sacerdoti , ut tollat Thuribula quae jacent in incendio , & ignem huc illucque dispergat : &c. producatque ea in laminas , & affigat altari : &c. ut cernant ea pro signo & monimento filij Israel . And the Lord spake unto Moses , saying ; Speak unto Eleazer , the son of Aaron the Priest , that he take up the Censers out of the burning , and scatter thou the fire yonder &c. Let them make broad plates for a covering of the Altar &c. and they shall be a sign unto the children Israel . Also in the book of Joshua I find these words : ( Josuae cap. 4. v. 5. ) Et ait Josue ad eos , ite ante arcam Domini Dei vestri ad Jordanis medium & portate inde singuli singulos lapides in humeris vestris , juxta numerum filiorum Israel , ut sit siguum inter vos : & quando interrogaverint vos filij vestri cras , dicentes quid sibi volunt isti lapides ? Respondebitis , defecerunt aquae Jordanis ante arcam foederis Domini , cum transiret eum , idcirco positi sunt lapides isti in monimentum filiorum Israel usque aeternum . And Joshua said unto them , pass over before the ark of the Lord your God into the midst of Jordan , and take you up every man of you a stone upon his shoulder , according to the number of the Tribes of the children of Israel , that this may be a sign among you , that when your children ask their fathers in time to come , saying what mean you by these stones : Then ye shall answer them that the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord when it passed over Jordan ; the waters of Jordan were cut off ; and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever . ( Num. cap. 27. v. 8 ) And for the disposing of heritages it is written thus . Homo cum mortuus fuerit absque filio , ad filiam ejus transibit haereditas ; si filiam non habuerit , habebit successores fratrs suos ; quod si & fratres non fuerint , dabitis haereditatem fratribus patris ejus ; sin autem nec patruos habuerit , dabitur haereditas his qui ei proximi sunt . Eritque hoc filijs Israel sanctum lege perpetua siout praecepit Dominus Moysi . If a man dy and have no son , then ye shall cause his inheritance to pass unto his daughters : And if he have no daughter , then ye shall give his inheritance unto his Brethren : and if he have no Brethren , then ye shall give his inheritance unto his fathers Brethren : And if his father have no Brethren , then ye shall give his inheritance unto his kinsman , that is next to him of his family , and he shall possess it : and it shall be unto the children of Israel a statute of judgment as the Lord commanded Moses . ( Num. cap. 26. v. 1. and v. 5. ) And for the collection of Genealogies , thus saith God to Moses and Elèazar : Numerate omnem summam filiorum Israel à viginti annis & suprà , per domos & cognationes suas , cunctos qui possunt ad bella procedere : &c. Reuben primogenitus Israel , hujus filius , Henoch , à quo familia Henochitarum : & Phallu , à quo familia Phalluitarum ; & Hezron à quo familia Hezronitarum . Take the summe of the people from twenty years old and upwards , as the Lord commanded Moses and the children of Israel ( according to their families and kindred , all that were able for warr ; Reuben the eldest son of Israel : The children of Reuben , Hanoch , of whom cometh the family of the Hanochites : of Pallu , the family of Palluites : of Hesron the family of the Hesronites . And for a further proof of the recording of Genealogies , it is to be considered how diligent the same hath been observed through the whole course of the Scriptures , as the descents from Adam to Noe , and from Noe to Abraham , &c. do sufficiently testify . And more , that with the spirit of truth the Genealogy of Christ our Saviour and redeemer , as concerning his humanity , is also by the writing of his holy Evangelists most plainly and sincerely remembred and set down . All these things being therefore by the Scriptures of God ( the decider of all controversiies ) proved and declared : Your Lordships may see that the bearing of Arms , raising and advancing of Standards , Banners and Ensigns , using of Obsequies , erecting of Monuments , Enroling and regestring of Pedegrees , and Descents , have joyned to the antient customs and laws both of this Land and all other nations ; the authority of Gods word , being very well accompanied with discretion , reason , and judgment ; for God having by his sacred institution ordained Kingdoms , Provinces , and Seignories , and that over them Kings , Princes and Magistrates , shall command , rule , and govern his people , to the end chiefly that his heavenly Kingdom may be replenished with the blessed souls of his servants , for the instructing whereof he hath also ordained his holy Church , and the Bishops , pastors and ministers of the same , which Bishops and other spiritual officers cannot so well enform his Christian people without the aid of the said Kings and temporal Lords : neither can they govern their particular Countries either from the invasion of outward tyrants or inward Rebels , but through the use of their sword of justice , which sword cannot be exercised against unruly persons being of strength , wanting men skilful in martial Discipline , who cannot manage those affairs but by mean of the aforesaid Arms and Ensigns , in manner as before I have more largely expressed . And in like sort as Princes , great Lords , Judges , Magistrates and Governours , do use to wear sacred Robes of gold , purple , scarler , and other ornaments and apparel ; not to take pride in , or for any vain ostentation or show ; but only that they may be distinguished from the inferior people , to the end that a reverent regard may be had of them in respect of the high office which under God here on earth they bear . And as these things no man of any reason will gainsay , so I see not but as-well may their just vertues and good government be remembred with Funerals , Obsequies , and Monuments , after their decease , whereby such as succeed in government may also be had in more high estimation , and a fair example is thereby given them to imitate the regiment of their predecessors , Likewise doth the Registring of descents carry with it reason joined to authority and custom ; for as by Gods law there is commanded a priviledge of enheritance to the first begotten of Israel , and so for want of sons to the females , and from them to others answerable to the proximity of their blood and kindred , which with the laws of this land , and of most nations do concur and agree ; it doth well stand with peaceful government for the avoiding of contentions which may rise for want of records , to testify the truth of mens titles to their enheritances , that Genealogies and Pedegrees , should be enrolled and kept in remembrance . I have my good Lords stood the longer upon this point , for that of late travelling through some countries of this Land , and having a desire to see the Moniments of antiquity which have remained in such places as I passed by , for which cause as otherwise I many times resorted to Churches and other houses to satisfy my affection , I found that many Moniments both of Burials and in glass were so broken and defaced , that vneth may be had any knowledge what the fragments remaining did signify : and enquiring of the inhabitants how it came to pass that those things were so blemished , they made report that certain persons , delighting as may seem in novelty , for they can abide no mark of Antiquity , had defaced the same . These men that take upon them to be reformers , whose desires are great through the singularity and pride they have in their own wits and understandings , weening themselves to be very wise , where indeed they are very simple , and only look but into the abuses of things , and do not see into the grounds and depth of the reasons and causes for which good ordinances were made , go about to find faults , where many times none are ; but if peradventure they hap to find an ordinance well made misused , then streight never seek they to reform the abuse , but by their wills , down goeth ordinance and all , such is their insolency , rashness , and want of judgment . It were well done therefore my good Lords , and I could wish that your Honours having sometimes access to her Majesty , and oftentimes conference with my Lords of her privy Councel , should enform her Highness , and their Honours of the said abuses committed , and to be thereby a mean that these simple fellows taking upon them to be reformers , might be reformed themselves , and both kept from destroying of good ordinances , and be punished for their offences in that behalf committed . In the mean time yet shall I desire that Honourable personages will look better to the Moniments of their ancestors , by correcting the destroyers thereof , and therein to imitate the laudable actions of William Fleetwood , Serjeant at the Law , and Recorder of the City of London , who being commissioner amongst others for the visitation of causes Ecclesiastical , by the Princes authority , by vertue thereof imprisoned certain wilful persons that had defaced the Moniment of Queen Katherine Dowyger at Preterborough , until such time as they had reformed the same , which thing was through his good endeavour reedified and perfected again , and so remaineth to this day : for although some hapily see standing those of their own parents , yet it were good they should sorsee that no others be pulled down ; for that there is not to be looked for but that suffering such injuries to rest unpunished , the doers thereof will in time grow more insolent , and have a cast to overthrow theirs also . And now being in speech of Monuments , I cannot but remember their ignorance who make small account of any ancestor except before the Conquest , weening that all that lie cross-legged † so were : and that all antient evidence without date is the like : whereas the one was not had in use until after the Palestine wars , and the other , such as be sealed , be also since * the Conquest ; for I could never see nor hear of any that had seen sealed deed , but the same was made sithence the Conquest of this Land , when the use ( as I take it ) of sealing with wax first began in England . But these men will not stoop one jot under the Conquest , telling many fables of their ancestors then preserving their Houses , Honours , and Armories , forgetting quite that it is much more glorious and honourable to be descended from a most famous nation conquering , then such people by plain feat of Arms subjuged , for as the Poet saith , quis enim sua praelia victus Commemorare velit ? referam tamen ordine , nec tam Turpe fuit vinci , quàm contendisse decorum est , Magnaque dat nobis tantus solatia victor . So that if they have any thing praise-worthy left to brag of , it it that they well contended with so puissant conquerors , which were then in their time as wise , glorious , and famous a nation as were in the whole world to be found . Another sort there be not much more skilful , who if they see any Armory , straight enter into the comparison of the fairness thereof : and foul and false is it , if mettal lie upon mettal alone , or colour upon colour : And yet I could wish we should never have more dishonourable men nor worse souldiers then have so born their Armory : for to omit that worthy Godfrey , and that Mack Morise King of Lymster in Ireland , whose only daughter and heir was married to Richard Strongbowe Earl of Penbrook , and bare in a black shield a red ramping Lion ; of our own Sir Richard Sanbach of Sanbach in Chesshire , Sir William Wakbirge of Wakbirge in Darbishire , two valiant Knights , yet both bare colour upon colour . Passing the number of examples , I will recite the words of mine Author speaking of the adventures of a brave Knight in the company of Sir Robert Canole resting by Paris . This Knight having vowed to strike with his launce on the barriers of the city , performed it , and then the words be these : Celluy cheualier ie ne sca comment il auoit nom ne de quel pays il istoit mais s' armoit a gueulles a de deux fouses noyeres et vne bordure noyre non endente . And although I grant they be not so well to be discerned , as when metal and colour be varied the one with the other ; yet sithence the number be great of most worthy men that have born their Arms in such manner , I will esteem their marks as honourable as the rest , and never impute any falsity to them . And this kind of men also commonly discant upon the proportion , nature , and quality of the device , as if the name of Ricbard were better then Robcrt ; and Ralph better then Roger ; and in their conceits the Eagle or Faulcon are the fairest birds to be born of all feathered fowls , and so of other the like : when indeed except for the reverence due to the Bearers , who do honour their bearings by their renown , vertue and valure , otherwise there is no difference in the fairness of marks : but that those only are to be preferred which be easiest to be perceived , discerned , and known to be the same things they be marked out for : And therefore the Capitale of Beuf'z black Midas head with his fair long Asse-ears , was as good a crest , as Sir John Chandos chiftains head proper in a white scarffe goodly envellopped : And as fair a coat is Hopwells , being three red Hares playing on Bagpipes in a silver shield , as Newinton which bare d' Azure three Eglets d' Argent displaid . And now me thinks I hear . some that esteem me to mend , and become more fine , skilfull , and Herauld-like in my emblazons , as using the French phrases of d'azyer & d'argent , who think , I doubt not , but that I have committed a great error for want of using the said French phrases in my emblazons ; notwithstanding I will joyn in opinion with such as esteem it to be more proper to speak and use English terms and phrases in an English book dedicated to Englishmen , then French or Latin , otherwise than cited authority leadeth . Thus far from Mr. Erdswike publisht by Mr. Wyrley . I come now to what that most expert Herauld Robert Glover Somerset hath sayed upon this subject of Differences , in his Book De Origine & Antiquitate Armorum , &c. Apud nos in Anglia , longo & approbato usu , triplices observantur Armorum Differentiae ; scilicet Principales , Consanguineorum , & Extraneorum . Differentiae principales sint Labellus , sive Lingula , eum pendulis , & appendicibus imparibus : Simplex , & quandoque rebus onustis . Bordura , sive fimbria simplex , componata , aut alio modo semmata , vel distincta per endenturas , & crenelaturas , quae dicuntur principales differentiae ; quia in Armis nunquam cernuntur , nec ullo alio usui destinantur , nisi ad illorum differentiam & discrepantiam . Differentiae Consanguineorum sunt Crescens , Macula , Merulus , Annulus , Fos-lilij & similia , quae dicuntur Consanguineorum differentiae , quia serviunt & destinantur consanguineis , ab uno & eodem stipite descendentibus : Ut filius junior , dum caelebs & innuptus remanserit gerens Arma patris sui cum tali parva differentia dignoscatur . Et-inter multos fratres , ut quilibet eorum possit bene secerni & cognosci ab alio per sua Arma in praelijs & expeditionibus bellicis ; & priaecipue quo ad Nativitatis & geniturae suae statum & praeeminentiam , portabunt Arma domus & familio unde sunt praegnati , cum tali parva differentia . At postquam ductis uxoribus , mutiplicatisque liberis , novam per se constituerint familiam , rejectis prioribus minutis differentijs , Arma domus cum Labello , Bordura , Quarterio , Benda , aut alia graviori distinctione , additione , vel commutatione portare debent , quo dehinc & illorum familia , ab originali illa familia , unde oriuntur , Armorum delatione facile precipi , distingui , & separari . Et tamque est verus , naturalis , & genuinus Armorum usus , ut per easdem cognoscantur & distinguantur familiae & agnationes , ob quam causam proculdubio in initio inventa fuerant . Differentiae Extraneorum sunt , Barrulae , Bendae , Fasces ; Tigna , sive signa capitalia , Palae , Quarteriae , & similia , quae extraneorum dicuntur notae : Quia licet Extraneo Arma cujuscumque domus seu familiae portare & ostendere , cum hujusmodi incrementis et additione sine quorumeumque praejudicio vel offensione . Harum Differentiarum vero usu neglecto , dum his dieb● juniores filij minutulas illas Crescentium , Macularum , Merulorum , Annulorum , atque Florum differentias retinere solent , easque ad suos quoque posteros transmittant , famularum notitia ( quae per Armorum delationes cognosci , secerni , et distingui solebant ) prorsus obfuscatur , et deletur . With us in E●gland , there hath been a threefold Difference observed in Arms ; that is to say of the Chiefs , or Principals ; for those of Consanguinity ; and of Strangers . The principal Differences are a Labell , or string with points , or pendents unlike : sometimes plain ; and sometimes chang'd . The Border , or plain fillet , componed , or distinguished by Endenting , or Engrailing , which are called the Principal Differences ; because they are never seen in Arms , or designed , but for Differences . The Differences for such as are of Consanguinity , are a Crescent , a Mullet , a Martlet , an Annulet , a Flower de Lys , and the like ; which are called Differences of kinsmen ; because they are designed and serve for those which are descended from one and the same stock : as for example , a younger son , whilst he continues a Batcheler and not married , he is known by bearing his Fathers Arms with such a small distinction or difference . And amongst many Brothers , to the end that each of them may be discern'd and known from another by his Arms in Battels , and warlike Expeditions , and specially as to their primogeniture and preheminence , they bore the Arms of the House and Family , whence they sprung , with such a small Distinction . But afterwards , when married , and had children , being Heads of new Families , they quitted those former minute and petty Differences , they bore the Arms of their House with a Labell , Bordure , Quarter , Bend , or some other greater distinction or addition , which thenceforth might evidently distinguish them and their Family from the original House and Stock from whence they were descended . Such being the true , natural , and genuine use of Arms , that each Family and Kindred might be known and distinguisht from one another ; that being doubtless the cause for which they were at first devised . As to the Differences of Strangers , they were Barrulets , Bends , Fesses , Cheverons , or capital marks ; Pales , Quarters , and the like , which are said to be the Badges and marks of Strangers ; because it is lawful for a Stranger of any House or Family to bear his Arms with these kind of distinctions and differences , without doing injury or giving offence to any . But these Differences being grown out of use ; now adays younger Sons do not only retain these petty Distinctions of Crescents , Mullets , Martlets , Annulets , and Flowers , but transmit them to their posterity ; whence it is , that the Distinction and proper knowledg of several Families , which had wont to be perspicuous by the bearings in their Arms , is now totally confounded and obscured . Hereunto I shall add what the most learned Camden , sometimes Clarencieux King of Arms , hath express'd as to this point : * No Gentlemen ought to bear their Differences in Armory , otherwise then the Office of Armory requireth : And when younger Brethren do marry , erect , and establish new Houses , are accordingly to bear their Arms with such Distinctions and Differences , that they may be known from their elder Families , out of which they were descended ; the King of Arms of the Province to be consulted withall , and such Differences of Houses are to be assigned and establish'd by his privity and consent , that so he may advise them to the best , and keep record thereof ; otherwise Gentlemen may either hurt themselves , by taking such a Difference as shall prejudice the chief House from whom they are descended . Let us now see what Sir Henry Spelman ( whose memory is not a little famous for his knowledg i● Antiquities , and Herauldry ) hath written as to thi● matter . De Discerniculis . * Pluribus idem Insigne deferre , absque debita differentia sua , fas non est : Ne ejusdem gentis familijs ; ne ejusdom familiae fratribus . Familiae autem coryphaeo Symbolum manet integrum et indiscretum ; Junioribus omnibus suis Discerniculis interstrictis ; quae semper in editiori clypei parte ( cophalicae regionis medio , juxta Leum ) expetuntur quod Wriothsleus fecialis sub Edwardi quarti aevo , a se inventum propagatumque fuisse , ne ulterius quaeras , tradidit . Fratrem primogenitum Lemniscis , seu virgula lemniscata donant . Vivente patre triplici , nondum extincto avo quintuplici ; semper impari , si Lei fidem sequamur . Corollae praefert similitudinem , Lemniscis ex ea dependentibus ; quam ideo primogenito assignatam dixeris , quia familiae decus , sic prae caeteris exornandus videatur . Antique autem idem hoc Signum , secundo , tertio , quinto conferebatur ; discrimine vel in colore posito , vel in Lemniscorum numero . Secundo fratri Lunulam , Crescentem vocant ; Graeci 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , assignant ; Tertio Penticonum ; Quarto Apodem ; Quinto Anellum ; Sexto Lilium . Et hisce quidem Discerniculis internoscenda exhibentur Warwici in Fenestra veteri , Ecclisiae S. Mariae , Arma , sex filiorum Thomae Beauchamp XIIII . Comitis illius tractus , qui obijt 34. Edw. tertij , ut intelligas istiusmodi Distinctionis ritum non a nuperis emanasse . Alij qui aetate Henrici septimi scripserunt , Haeredem ipsum Crescenti lunula distinxerunt , ut accessuro huic lumine , accessuram illi haereditatem ostenderent . Secundo vero fratrem , quem tertium familiae limen occupare aiunt ( primum enim patri , alterum Haeredi tribuunt ) triplici Lemnisco consignarunt : Tertio fratri quadruplicem : Quarto quintuplicem . Sed nec haec , nec illa distinguendi ratio satis apud veteres invaluit , qui apertissimis differentiis consusulentes , paternos colores saepe inverserunt : Saepe rerum gestarum numerum auxerunt ; saepe minuerunt ; alicui gestamina , praesertim materna , & haereditaria saepissime interseruerunt . Interdum desertis integris Insignibus , novis gavisi sunt . Sin vero Protogoni Clypeum , per omnes agnationes , familias , gentes retinuisse placuerit ; Lemniscis , quos diximus , Diagoniis , Limbis , Quadraturis , Angulis , aliisque latis & conspecti ; oribus differentiis usi sunt . En in una gente omnium pene Exemplaria . Extraneorum gens , vulgo le Strange , inter limitaneos proceres notissimae virtutis , & triplici tum olim Baronia , amplissimisque familiis perquam potens & splendida , Clypeo utebatur rubeo , duobus argenteis Leonibus graduarijs , quam Johannes le Strange quartus Baro de Knockyn , ut familiarum coryphaeus , purum protulit . Fulco le Strange , Baro de Corsham & Blakmere , qui a Johanne , avo dicti Johannis , per — filium tertium descenderet , colores inversit , Argenteo clypeo rubeos inducens . Rogerus le Strange , Baro de Ellesmere ( ab eodem avo , per filium quartum prognatus ) gentis clypeum , limbo imbricato aureo circundedit . Ejus pater etiam Rogerus , cum Matildem filiam Willielmi de Bellocampo uxorem duxisset , Bellocamporum Cruces Crucigeras ( sed argenteos numeroque novenario ) argenteis suis Leonibus intercalavit . Hamo le Strange a Johanne quarto , per quintum editus , clypeum fratris sui Johannis , sexti Baronis de Knockyn , aurea diagonali virgula trajecit , eodemque discrimine apud Hunstanton ( Norfolcensi agro ) quam a Barone fratre anno gratiae 1309 dono acceperat , consedens , celebri familiae ( quae in hunc usque diem , eadem sede , eademque discernicula , faeliciter claruit ) initium dedit . Sed ipse etiam Johannes le Strange sextus Baro de Knockyn , Leones suos Apodum peribolo ( ut e Sigillo cernimus ) aliquando circumclusit , Eadem tempestate Johannes le Strange ( Glocestriensis puto ) is , qui dominus de Ercalene inscribebatur , clypeum Rogeri le Strange de Ellesmere , cerulea mitella transegit . Atque hunc quidem decernendi morem potiori laude multi efferunt , quod militaria Symbola , ad distinctionem enata , distinctiora multo effecerat : Minutulis enim illis recentiorum formulis , nec error defuit , nec periculum . Sic elusi ( apud Froisardum ) Hannones illi , qui sub vexillo Willielmi Baileul , argenteis cyaneisque repagulis transmutato , rubrique binis fastigijs inducto , recipere se contendebant ; ad vexillum Roberti Baileul , fratris sui minoris , exigua cruce aurea ( quam male animadverterent ) discriminatam convolabant : fusique & dissipati omnes gravissimas ernoris sui paenas persolverunt . Rideo igitur & rejicio icunculas istas , quas tum praecipue in morem venisse arbitramur , cum ipsa insignia , relictis jam nativis stationibus , clypeis , vexillis , apparatuque militari , in aedium fenestris mollique supellectili ( ubi nec refert magnitudo ) potissiimum residerent . Touching small Differences , being the Latin before mentioned , put in English. It is not at all lawful for several persons to bear one and the same Arms , without a due Difference ; no not to those of the same family though they be Brothers thereof . To the chief of the family , the intire Arms without any difference do belong , but the younger branches are to have their respective Differences , and bear them in the midst of the upper part of the Escocheon , according to Lee , which Wriothesley ( a Herauld under K. Edw. 4th ) affirms to be of his devising . To the eldest son , in his fathers life time , was assigned a Labell of three points ; but if his grandfather was living , with five points , ever different , if we give credit to Lee. Which ( like a Coronet ) the Labells hanging at it , is therefore assigned to the eldest son , that as he is the glory of the family he may seem to be adorned above the rest . Antiently this distinction was conferred on the second , third or fourth , either by different colour , or number of the Labells . To the second Brother they assigned a Crescent : to the third a Mullet of five points ; to the fourth a Martlet ; to the fifth an Annulet ; to the sixth a Flower de Lys. And by these Differences the six sons of Thomas Beauchamp the XIIII Earl of Warwick , ( who died in the thirty fourth year of K. Edw. 3. ) are shewed forth in an old window of the Church of St. Mary at Warwick ; so that you may see that this usage is ancient . Some who have written in the time of K. Henry the seventh , have distinguisht the Heir himself by a Crescent , that by the accession of Light they might shew that the inheritance was coming to him . And to the second Brother , whom they take to be the third boundary of the family ( attributing the first to the father , and the second to the heir ) they assign a Labell of three points : To the third a Labell of four points ; and to the fifth a Labell of five points . But none of these kind of Distinctions were used amongst the Antients ; Who studying apparent and perspicuous Differences , often inverted the paternal colour ; sometimes augmented the particular chardge in the shield ; sometimes diminishing the same ; and sometimes inserting another sort of bearing , especially from the mother ; but sometimes totally quitting their paternal Arms , and assuming new . But if the respective branches of the family did retain their Ancestors Arms , then they did use apparent and conspicuous Differences either by Labells , Bends , Borders , Quarters , Cantons or the like . Examples whereof we have almost all in one family . As in that of le Strange , sometimes famous for their valour in the marshes of Wales ; whereof there were three distinct Barons ; who had a sheild gules , with two Lyons passant Argent , which John le Strange the fourth Baron of Knockyn , as the chief of that house , did bear . But Fulke le Strange , Baron of Corfham and Blakmere , who descended from the Grandfather of the said John , by a third son , inverted the colours , bearing in a field Argent , two Lyons passant gules . Likewise Roger le Strange Baron of Ellesmere , who descended from the same grandfather by a fourth son , bore the same Arms , with a Border engrayled Or. Also Roger his father , after he had marryed Maud the daughter of William de Beauchamp , bore nyne Cross-croslets Argent betwixt his silver-lyons . Moreover Hamon le Strange , who descended from the said John the fourth , by a fifth son , bore the Arms of his Brother , John the sixth Baron of Knockyn , with a Bendlet Or ; and fixing himself at Hunstanton in Norfolk ( which he obtained in the year 1309 from John his Brother ) was the original of that worthy family , which doth still remain there , bearing the same Difference . But the sayd John le Strange the sixth Baron of Knockyn , did sometime environ his Lyons with an Orle of Martlets , as by his Seals are to be seen . At the same time another John le Strange , who was Lord of Ercalene ( in Shropshire ) bore the Arms of Roger le Strange of Ellesmere with a Bendlet Azure . Which kind of Differences , as many do affirm , are most worthy of commendation , because as military Badges , first used for distinction , they are much more discernable . For by these small and petty Differences , there is both error and danger , as it is evident by those Hennovers of which Froisard speakes ; who fighting under the Standard of William de Baileul , with Barrs Argent and Azure counterchanged , and over them two Chevrons gules striving to repair thereto , came to the Standard of Robert Baileul his younger Brother , distinguisht but by a small golden-cross , which occasioned a total rout to them all , whereby they paid dear for their mistake . I do therefore smile at , and despise these pettey Differences , which now a days are used ; whereas the Arms themselves , leaving their native stations , in Shields , Banners , and habiliments of warr , doth now chiefly appear in Glass-windows and sleight houshold stuff , where the largeness of the distinction is not at all regarded . Having now done with these English writers , let us hear what the French say thereto . Mons. Charles Segoigne , Advocate of the Parliament , and of the Council of Estate , and of the privy-council of the King in his Tractate , called Tresor Heraldique , printed at Paris 1657. Pag. 459. Pour celles des maisons particularies , chascun on use comme il lui plaist , toutes fois les pieces , dont se sert ordinairement pour Brisures , sont le Lambell , les Bordures , le Baton , ou Cottice , le Franc Canton ; la Molette ; le Croissant ; l' Estaille ; le Besant &c. For Differences of particular Houses , each one useth as he pleaseth : nevertheless the pieces that ordinarily are used , are the Labell ; the Bordures ; the Baton , or Cotice ; the Franc Canton ( id est the Dexter Canton ) the Mullet ; the Crescent ; the Star , the Besant [ the Besant in the French acceptation being a roundell , either Or or Argent . ] Le Trophee d' Armes ( whose author conceals himself ) a book printed at Paris an . 1650. Pag. 33. Les pleines Armes sont reservees aux aisnez par les loix divines & humaines : Les Cadets & puisnez les portent aussi , mais avec quelque differences d' inferiorite ; ce que l' on appelles Brisures , dont le nombre n' est point limite , puis qu' elles dependent de la fantasie . Les uns prennent Estoilles ; Croissans ; Soleils , animaux , oyseaux , fleurs , & autres choses posces d' ordenaire sur le flanc dextre de l' Escu , en chef ou montantes d' icelui . Des autres brisent en diminuant les pieces : & d' autres en changeant les esmail-de leur Armes . Mais le plus souvent pour Brisure , on se sert du Lambeau ; de la Bordure ; de l' Orle ; Báston ; Bande ou Cottice , que ie range ici selon leur dignite . Car on tient que s' il se trouvoit cinque puisnez en un maison , le Lambeau appertiendroit au premier ; le Bordure au second ; & aussi des autres . Si bien , que les puisnez : Du premier puisnes pour doubles Brisures , ou sou brisures , augmente : ront les pendens du Lambeau ; le premier d' un : le second de deux autres ; & les autres de mesme jusques a cinque . Apres quoy , pour sou-brisures , on chargeroit de Lambeau , qui d' une figure qui d' une autre . Les sou-brisures de la Bordure , sont primierement de la fair Engreslee . Secondement de la charger de Torteaux ou Besans : Troisiesmement de la Componee . Et finálement de la charger de plusieurs figures , ou d' une soule . Il en est de mesme des autres Brisures . Which in English is thus . The plain Arms are reserved to the eldest sons , both by divine and humane laws : The Cadets ( or younger ) bear the same Arms , but with some Difference of inferiority , which we call Brisures : of which the number is not limitted , but depends upon fancy . Some take Starrs , Cressents , Sunns , Beasts , Birds , Flowers , and other things , put most commonly upon the dexter Flanc of the Escocheon ; upon the cheife part of the same ; or moving , or issuing thence . Others difference by diminishing the peices of the chardge , or changing the colours . But most commonly for Brisures ( or differences ) we make use of the Labell ; the Bordure ; the Orle ; the Baton ; the Bend , or Cottice , which I range here according to their dignity : For we hold , that if there be five puisnes in a house , the Labell belongs to the first ; the Bordure to the second , and so of the rest . So that the puisnes of the first puisnes for double ( or sub-brisures ) shall augment the pendents of the Labell : the first with one ; the second with two : the rest accordingly to the number of five . After which , for Sub-brisures , or differences , we must chardge the Labell with one figure or another . The Sub-brisures of the Bordure , are first of all to make it Engrailed . Secondly to chardge it with Torteaux , or Besants . Thirdly to Compone ( or Gobone ) it . And finally to chardge it with various sorts of figures or with one alone . The same must be done with the other sort of Brisures or differences . Note that the French Blazoners , do , by Torteauxes mean Roundles of colors : And by Besants those of mettal ; viz. Silver , and Gold. The book of St. Albans sayth , that Labells are excellent Differences ; as with three , four , five , or more points . It also speaks of Cross-croslets , Mullets , or the like . Likewise of Bordures changed , in form , or in color . We will conclude this chapter of Arms , and Blazons with acknowledging and distinguishing the eldest sons from the younger and inferior . * The eldest are known and discerned from the other by the plain paternal Arms without any Brisure ( id est diminution ) whatsoever , except the father gave the same so . It is ordinarily seen in illustrious and most noble Houses , that the second son quartereth the fathers Arms , with them of his mother : but this occasioneth confusion to their descent and linage , if they have store of male children : Others diversifye and vary in the chief , or else in the first quarter and Canton of the cheife , which is termed of Honour ; or else Partissent a , Flanquent b , Entent c , en poincte , ou mettent d sur le tout : But the most certain knowledge is made by Brisures , so far as to the seventh generation , the end of all patronage [ Brisures signifying any thing added besides the original chardge . ] It is an assured rule , that among males , the eldest acknowledgeth himself , and he ought to be acknowledged by his father's Arms , if he be no otherwise stipuled by contracts of marriage , of donation , or of substitution , which do extend so far as to the fourth heir . And if all the males would bear the fathers Arms , they ought to be distinguished according to degree of Birth , or primogeniture , by Brisures . But the second son deit Porter le Lambeau de trois pieces ; which is to be understood of metal or color , and which also ought to be observed in all other Brisures . The third son une simple Bordure . The fourth le Orle ; The fifth le Baston : And the sixth le Bande . If there be any more , the Cheife ; the first or last Canton of the Cheife , or else le Ente en Poincte will serve to be remarked . The assailants or challengers of all the younger thus born must be acknowledged by doubles Brisures ; in regard the eldest son issued of the second , ought to retain and bear the Fathers Arms avecques leur Brisure le Lambeau de trois pieces en chef . The second le Larabeau de quatre pieces en chef . The third pareil Lambeau monuant le cheif . And the fourth pareil Lambeau charge solon sa fantasie d'Aigles , Lyons , Croissants , Roses , Aleryons , Merlets , ou Diapre . The second son issuing of the first third portera la Bordure engreslee . The third chargee de Befans , ou Torteaux . The fourth La Bordure Componee . The next Endentee , or Endenchee . And the rest ( if there be any more ) Chargee de Annulets , partie del un ou l' autre , ou bien le simple , ou be double essanier & trescheur ; id est the diminitive of an Orle. The second son issuing of the first fourth , l' Orle , which his descendents and he may diversifye ; d' Eschecquette , pale , counterpale , Lozange , Frelte , Fusille , Faisses , conterfaisses , Paile , Viure e , cheveronne contre-cheveronne ; Verse , f contre-verse ; or chardged with the forenamed Beasts with pannes g , Marles , Molettes , Estoiles , ou de rustres h , or other varieties , which may be put into Arms. The second son of the first fifth , and his descendents may change and vary le Baston , as hath been said before and the like . Of the second son , and his assaylants of the first six a la Band i , which may be Coticee , jumelle k , Bretesscee , l Feuillee m de six , componee , Endenctiee , ou chargee d' animaux , ou de pannes . But it is to be held for a rule , and an infallible Maxime in Arms , and the noble art of painting , and Blazon , that he which beareth least is the best , which will serve for question and enquirie . A True and Perfect CATALOGUE OF THE Nobility OF ENGLAND . A true and perfect Catalogue of all the Nobility , Great Officers of State and Court , Lords Spiritual and Temporal of the Kingdom of ENGLAND , according to their Respective Precedencies . Dukes of the Royal Blood ( II ) * JAMES Duke of York ( and Albany in Scotland , Earl of Ulster in Ireland ) * Rupert Duke of Cumberland ( Count Palatine of the Rhine ) Archbishops ( II ) , and Great Officers ( IV ) , who in respect of their Offices precede all the Nobility except those of the Blood Royal. Arch-bishop of Canterbury Primate of All England William Sancroft Dr. of Divinity Lord High Chancellor of England Heneage Earl of Nottingham Arch-Bishop of York , Primate of England Richard Stern Dr. of Divinity Lord High Treasurer of England This Office is now executed by Commissioners Lord President of the Council John Earl of Radnor Lord Privy Seal Arthur Earl of Anglesey Dukes ( IX ) and Dutchesses ( II ) Henry Howard Duke of Norfolk ( Earl Marshal ) Charles Seymour Duke of Somerset ( under age ) * George Villiers Duke of Buckingham * Christopher Monke Duke of Albemarle * James Scot Duke of Monmouth ( and Buccleugh in Scotland ) * Henry Cavendish Duke of New-castle Barbara Dutchess of Cleveland ( sole Daughter and Heir to William Villiers Vicount Grandison in Ireland ) for Life , with Remainder to Charles Fitz-Roy , her eldest Son , and for want of Issue male to George Fitz-Roy , her Younger Son. Lovisa de Querovalle Dutchess of Portsmouth ( for Life ) * Charles Lenos Duke of Richmond ( and Lenox in Scotland ) under age . * Charles Fitz-Roy Duke of Southampton ( under age ) * Henry Fitz-Roy Duke of Grafton ( the Remainder , for want of Issue male , to George Fitz-Roy , his Younger Brother ) under Age Marquesses ( II ) Charles Paulet Marquess of Winchester * Henry Somerset Marquess of Worcester Other Great Officers ( V ) ( Who take place in respect of their Offices ) Lord High Chamberlain of England Robert Earl of Lindsey Earl Marshal of England Henry Duke of Norfolk , with His Majesty's approbation at present executes the Office by his Deputy who now is Robert Earl of Aylesbury Lord High Admiral of England This Office is now executed by Commissioners Lord Steward of the King's Houshold James Earl of Brecknock ( Duke of Ormond in Ireland ) Lord Chamberlain of the King's Houshold Henry Earl of Arlington Earls ( LXIX ) and ( I ) Countess * Auberie de Vere Earl of Oxford Charles Talbot Earl of Shrewsbury ( Waterford and Wexford in Ireland ) Anthony Grey Earl of Kent Willlam Stanly Earl of Derby John Maners Earl of Rutland Theophilus Hastings Earl of Huntington * William Russel Earl of Bedford Philip Herbert Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery Edward Clinton Earl of Lincoln James Howard Earl of Suffolk Charles Sackvill Earl of Dorset and Middlesex * James Cecil Earl of Salisbury John Cecil Earl of Exeter John Egerton Earl of Bridgwater Philip Sidney Earl of Leicester James Compton Earl of Northampton Edward Rich Earl of Warwick and Holland ( under Age ) William Cavendish Earl of Devonshire William Feilding Earl of Denbigh ( and Desmond in Ireland ) John Digby Earl of Bristol Gilbert Holles Earl of Clare Oliver St. Johns Earl of Bolinbroke Charles Fane Earl of Westmorland Robert Mountagu Earl of Manchester Thomas Howard Earl of Berkeshire * John Sheffield Earl of Mulgrave Thomas Savage Earl of Rivers Robert Bertie Earl of Lindsey ( Lord Great Chamberlain of England ) Henry Mordant Earl of Peterborough Thomas Grey Earl of Stamford Hencage Finch Earl of Winchelsey Robert Pierrepont Earl of Kingston upon Hull Charles Dormer Earl of Carnarvon Philip Stanhope Earl of Chesterfield Richard Tufton Earl of Thanet Thomas Weston Earl of Portland * William Wentworth Earl of Strafford Robert Spencer Earl of Sunderland Robert Leke Earl of Scarsdale Charles Wilmot Earl of Rochester ( and Vicount Wilmot of Athlon in Ireland ) under Age * Henry Jermin Earl of St. Albans Edward Mountagu Earl of Sandwich * James Butler Earl of Brecknock ( Lord Steward of the King's Houshold , and Duke of Ormond in Ireland ) Henry Hyde Earl of Clarendon Arthur Capel Earl of Essex Robert Brudnel Earl of Cardigan Arthur Annesly Earl of Anglesey ( Lord Privy Seal , and Vicount Valentia in Ireland ) John Greneville Earl of Bath Charles Howard Earl of Carlisle William Craven Earl of Craven Robert Bruce Earl of Aylesbury ( and Elgin in Scotland ) Richard Boyle Earl of Burlington ( and Cork in Ireland ) * Henry Bennet Earl of Arlington ( Lord Chamberlain of His Majesties Houshold ) Anthony-Ashley Cooper Earl of Shastsbury William Herbert Earl of Powis Edward-Henry Lee Earl of Lichfield * John Maitland Earl of Guilford ( and Duke of Lauderdale in Scotland ) * Thomas Osborne Earl of Danby Thomas Lennard Earl of Sussex George Fitz-Roy Earl of Northumberland ( under Age ) Lewis Duras Earl of Feversham Charles Beauclair Earl of Burford ( under Age ) George Savile Earl of Hallifax Charles Gerard Earl of Macclesfield John Roberts Earl of Radnor ( Lord President of the Council ) Robert Paston Earl of Yarmouth George Berkeley Earl of Berkeley Edward Conway Earl of Conway ( and Vicount Killutagh in Ireland Elizabeth ( Lady Dacres ) Countess of Shepey ( Daughter of Paul Vicount Banyng , Relict of Francis Lennard Lord Dacres , and Mother to Thomas Earl of Sussex ) for Life Heneage Finch Earl of Nottingham ( Lord High Chancellor of England ) Uicounts ( VIII ) and ( I ) Uicountess Leceister Devereux Vicount Hereford ( under Age ) Francis Brown Vicount Mountague William Fiennes Vicount Say and Sele Baptist Noel Vicount Campden Thomas Bellassyse Vicount Fauconberg Charles Mordant Vicount Mordant Francis Newport Vicount Newport Sarah ( Lady Corbet ) Vicountess Corbet ( Daughter and Coheir of Sir Robert Munson of Carleton in Com. Linc. Knight Relict of Sir Vincent Corbet of Morton Corbet in Com. Salop. Baronet ) for Life Laurence Hyde Vicount Hyde Bishops ( XXIV ) Dr. Henry Compton L. B. of London Dr. Nathaniel Crew L. B. of Durham Dr. George Morley L. B. of Winchester Dr. Herbert Crofts L. B. of Hereford Dr. Seth Ward L. B. of Salisbury Dr. Edward Rainbow L. B. of Carlisle Dr. John Dolben L. B. of Rochester Dr. Antony Sparrow L. B. of Norwich Dr. Peter Gunning L. B. of Ely Dr. Thomas Wood L. B. of Coventry and Lichfield Dr. Guy Carleton L. B. of Chichester Dr. Peter Mew L. B. of Bath and Wells Dr. John Pearson L. B. of Chester Dr. Humphry Lloyd L. B. of Bangor Dr. William Lloyd L. B. of Peterborough Dr. Thomas Barlow L. B. of Lincoln Dr. James Fleetwood L. B. of Worcester Dr. John Fell L. B. of Oxford Dr. Thomas Lamplough L. B. of Exeter Dr. William Thomas L. B. of St. Davids Dr. William Gulston L. B. of Bristol Dr. William Beaw L. B. of Landaff Dr. William Lloyd L. B. of St. Asaph Dr. Robert Frampton L. B. of Gloucester ( The Bishops of London , Durham , and Winchester do constantly precede the residue of the Bishops who take their places according to the seniority of their Consecrations ) Barons ( LXV ) and Baronesses ( III ) Henry Howard Lord Moubray ( beareth the Title of Earl of Arundel ) George Nevill Lord Abergavenny ( under Age ) James Touchet Lord Audley ( and Earl of Castle-Haven in Ireland ) Charles West Lord La Warre Thomas Parker Lord Morley and Lord Montegle Robert Shirley Lord Ferrers Conyers Darcie Lord Darcie and Lord Meinel . Charles Mildmay Lord Fitz-Walter ( under Age ) Henry Yelverton Lord Grey ( under Age ) Frances ( Lady Ward ) Baroness Dudley ( Grand-Daughter and sole Heir to Edward Sutton Lord Dudley , Relict of Humble Lord Ward , and Mother of Edward Lord Ward ) William Stourton Lord Stourton Conyers Darcie Lord Conyers Henry Sandys Lord Sandys Thomas-Windsor Windsor alias Hickman Lord Windsor Thomas Cromwell Lord Cromwell ( and Earl of Arglas in Ireland ) Ralph Eure Lord Eure Philip Wharton Lord Wharton Thomas Willoughby Lord Willough by of Parham William Paget Lord Paget Francis Howard Lord Howard of Effingh●m Charles North Lord North and Lord Grey of Rolleston James Brugges Lord Chandos Robert Carey Lord Hunsdon James Bertie Lord Norris William Petre Lord Petre Digby Gerard Lord Gerard of Bromley ( under age ) Henry Arundell Lord Arundell of Wardour ( and Count of the Empire ) The Lady Catherine ( O Brien ) Baroness Clifton ( Daughter of the Lord George Stuart call'd Lord D'Aubignie ; Sister and sole Heir to Charles late Duke of Richmond and Lenox , and thereby sole Heir to the Lady Catharine her Grandmother , Daughter and Heir to Gervaise Lord Clifton ) first marryed to Henry Lord O Brien ( Son and Heir to Henry Earl of Thomond in Ireland ) and since his death to Sir Joseph Williamson Knight Christopher Roper Lord Tenham Fulke Grevill Lord Brooke Edward Mountagu Lord Mountagu of Boughton Forde Grey Lord Grey of Werke John Lovelace Lord Lovelace John Paulet Lord Paulet William Maynard Lord Maynard ( and Baron Maynard of Wickelow in Ireland ) John Coventrie Lord Coventrie William Howard Lord Howard of Escrick Charles Mohun Lord Mohun ( under Age ) Henry Herbert Lord Herbert of Chirbury ( and Baron Herbert of Castle-Island in Ireland ) Thomas Leigh Lord Leigh Christopher Hatton Lord Hatton William Byron Lord Byron Richard Vaughan Lord Vaughan ( and Earl of Carbery in Ireland ) Francis Smith Lord Carington ( and Vicount Carington of Barrefore in Ireland ) William Widdrington Lord Widdrington Edward Ward Lord Ward Thomas Colepeper Lord Colepeper Jacob Astley Lord Astley Charles Lucas Lord Lucas John Bellassyse Lord Bellassyse Edward Watson Lord Rockingham Robert Sutton Lord Lexinton ( under Age ) Charles-Henry Kirckhoven Lord Wotton ( and Earl of Bellomont in Ireland ) Marmaduke Langdale Lord Langdale Charles Berkeley Lord Berkeley of Stratton ( under Age ) Francis Holles Lord Holles Charles Cornwallis Lord Cornwallis George Boothe Lord De la Mer Horatio Townsend Lord Townsend Thomas Crew Lord Crew John Frescheville Lord Frescheville Richard Arundell Lord Arundell of Treryse James Butler Lord Butler of Moore-Parke ( beareth the Title of Earl of Ossory in Ireland ) under Age Hugh Clifford Lord Clifford of Chudley ( under Age ) Richard Butler Lord Butler of Weston ( and Earl of Arran in Ireland ) Susan ( Lady Bellassyse ) Baroness Bellassyse of Osgodby ( Daughter and Coheir to Sir WilliamAirmine of Osgodby in Com. Linc. Baronet , Relict of Sir Henry Bellassyse Knight of the Bathe son and heir to John Lord Bellassyse ) for Life Edward Noel Lord Noel Richard Lumley Lord Lumley ( and Vicount Lumley of Waterford in Ireland ) George Carteret Lord Carteret ( under Age ) All those before , whose names an Asterisc ( * ) is prefixed , are Knights of the Garter . A true and exact LIST of all the KNIGHTS of the CARTER infer SCHEME of the Stalls of the SOVE●… and the KNIGHTS COMPANIONS MOST NOBLE Order as they no●… in St. GEORGES CHAPPEL in WI●… CASTLE this tenth of SEPTEMBER Christian the 5th . King of Denmark The Soveraigne Charles the 2d . King of England &c Charles the XI th . King of Sweden James York Prince Rupert Count Palatine of the Rhine William-Henry Prince of Or Frederick William Prince Elector Marquess of Brandenburgh Charles the 2d . Prince Ele of the Rhine James Duke of Ormond George Duke of Buckinghan Auberie Earl of Oxford William Earl of Strafford James Duke of Monmouth Christopher Duke of Albemar●● James Duke of Monmouth Christopher Duke of Albemarle John Duke of Lauderdale Henry Marquess of Worcester Henry Earl of St. Albans William Earl of Bedford Henry Earl of Arlington Charles Duke of Southampton John Earl of Mulgrave Henry Duke of Newcastle ●homas Earl of Danby Henry Duke of Grafton James Earl of Salisbury Charles Duke of Richmund ●lace this after page 78. A CATALOGUE OF THE BARONETS OF THIS KINGDOM OF England ; From the first Erection of that Dignity until the 4th of July 1681 inclusive . AN Advertisement TO THE READER . WHen the Copie , from which this subsequent Catalogue of the English Nobility is printed , was sent to the Press , the name and Title of Francis Lord Howard of Effingham was omitted , ( tho in the second Volume of the Baronage of England published in anno 1676 upon the best information I could then obtain , I had there taken notice of that person , as heir expectant to the said Honour , after the death of Charles Earl of Nottingham , who was then very aged and issuless ) doubting to fix him therein before he had regularly made his claim thereto , might give offence to the rest of the Nobility : but upon view of my Copie : by some intelligent persons , who nevertheless thought it proper to be inserted I submitted thereto : whereat if any take offence I humbly crave pardon : it being my clear opinion , that such of a collateral line , as have right by descent to any Title of Honour , accruing to them by virtue of an entail thereof made long since ; they should openly exhibite their claim unto the King , with due proof of their right thereto ( as hath heretofore in like cases been done ) and thereupon , with his Majesties allowance thereof , have the same , by the direction of the Earl Marshal , orderly registred . Whereas in the Catalogue of the Vicounts , I have inserted Leicester Devereux Vicount Hereford , now in minoritie ; I'have hereby thought fitt to advertise the Reader ; that , upon certain exceptions taken in Parliament in anno 1677 to his right for that Title , by reason of the attainder of Robert Earl of Essex and Vicount Hereford in 43 Eliz. and restoration of that Honour being only limitted to Robert his Son and the two Sisters of the said Robert : the decision ●hereof was then , by order of the House of Lords , re●●ited till the said Leicester Devereux shall come of full Age. It is likewise to be noted ; whereas in this ensuing Catalogue Pag. 71. Charles Wilmot Earl of Rochester is inserted ; that since the printing thereof he dyed , whereby that Title of Honour is totally extinct : and therefore , that the number of Earls mentioned in pag. 69. lin . penult . is to be no more then 68. And that James Compton Earl of Northampton mentioned p. 70. is since dead but succeeded by George his Son who is under Age. I have likewise thought fit , farther to advertise the Reader , that the Book-Seller being desirous to publish Catalogues of the Scottish and Irish Nobility : such hath been the unexspected delay , in obtaining perfect Copies from Scotland and Ireland that the publication of my papers ( which have been printed more then four months since ) hath by reason thereof , been so long retarded , that it hath necessitated some alterations and emendations now added . Also , that as to the following Catalogue of the Scottish Nobility , Sir George Mackenzie , the worthy Lord Advocat of Scotland in his letter to me bearing the 30th of December 1681 doth signify , that he did review it and gave his assistance for the better compleating thereof and doth certify that it is very perfect and exact . But the said Sir George Mackenzie in a learned Treatise of Precedency ( publish'd at Edinburgh 1680 together with another of Heraldry both written by himself being a person eminently renow'd for his several other excellent works ) having at large discoursed of the Precedency due to the Arch-Bishops of Scotland , to the end that no injury be done to them by concealing their just right therein , I shall here transcribe what he saith as to that point . I find by a letter in An. 1625 , that before King James his going into England , the Marquesses of Scotland , did take place from the Arch-bishops : And by a letter in An. 1626 , renew'd in An. 1664. The Arch-bishop of St. Andrews is to take place before all subjects . Yet I think , this will not give him place from the Kings Sons , Uncles , and Nephews , though they be likewise subjects ; since the word subjects must be here interpreted according to the custom of Nations , by which these neare relations of Princes are preferred to all other subjects . Yet defacto since the letter the Arch-bishops of St. Andrews ceds to the Lord Chancellor . These Advertisements to the Reader , are to be prefixt before pag. 67. THE Preface . WHereas in the year 1667 a Catalogue of the Baronets of England was by authority published ; to the end that such as had obtained Patents for that Honour , which were not enrolled , should , by discerning an omission of their names therein , take care to supply that defect , so that , upon a second Impression thereof they might be inserted : Now , whereas , after twelve years and more , no Enrollments are yet to be found for sundry persons which have assumed this Title , which causeth some to doubt whether they can make any justifiable claime thereto . Whereas therefore no person whatsoever ought to take upon them this Title of dignity , but such as have been really advanced thereto by Letters Patents under the great Seale of England ; it is thought fit by the right Honorable Robert Earl of Aylesbury , who now exerciseth the Office of Earl Marshall of England , that this present Catalogue of such , touching whom the Docquet-books remaining with the-Clerk of the Crown in Chancery do take notice , shall be published ; to the end that those of whom no memorial upon Record is to be found , to justifie their right to this Title , may be known ; and care henceforth taken in Commissions of the peace , and otherwise , that it be not given unto them until they shall manifest the same unto the Lord Chancellor of England , and have speciall order from his Lordship to enroll such Patents , whereby they pretend Title to that dignity . As also , that regard be had of giving credit to any other Catalogues of the Baronets which are already publisht , or that shall be publisht , than what is taken from the authority of those Docquet-books above mentioned , or the Enrollment of their Patents . BARONETS Created by King James . Anno Dom. 1611. May 22 & Anno Regis Jac. 9. 1 SIR Nicholas Bacon of Redgrave Knight . Suff. 2 Sir Richard Molineux of Sefton Knight ( Irish Visc. viz. Viscount Molineux . ) Lanc. 3 Sir Thomas Maunsell of Morgan Knight . Glam . 4 George Shirley of Staunton Esq ( English Baron viz. Lord Ferrers . ) Leic. 5 Sir John Stradling of St. Donats Kt. Glam . 6 Sir Francis Leke of Sutton Knight ( English Earl viz. Earl of Scaresdale ) . Darb. 7 Thomas Pelham of Lawghton Esq Suss. 8 Sir Richard Houghton of Houghton-Tower Knight . Lanc. 9 Sir Henry Hobart of Intwood Knight ( Attourney General to the King afterwards Lord chief justice of the Common-pleas . ) Norff. 10 Sir George Boothe of Dunham-Massey Knight ( English Baron viz. Ld. de La Mer. ) Chesh. 11 Sir John Peyton of Iselham Knight Cambr. 12 Lionel Talmach of Helmingham Esq From whom the present chief Lineal descendant hath a just expectancy to be a Scotch Earl viz. Earl of Dysert and now beareth the title of Lord Huntingtower as being eldest son to the Countess of Dysert Daughter of William Murray Earl of Dysert and the relict of the late Sr. Lionel Talmach , but since married to the Duke of Lauderdale . Suff. 13 Sir Gervase Clifton of Clifton Knight of the Bath . Nott. 14 Sir Thomas Gerard of Bryn Knight . Lanc. 15 Sir Walter Aston of Tixhall Knight of the Bath . Embassador in Spain from King James ( Scotch Baron viz. Lord Aston . ) Staff. 16 Philip Knevet of Buckenham Esq ( Extinct . ) Norff. 17 Sir John St. John of Lidiard-Tregoz Knight . Wiltf . 18 John Shelly of Michelgrove Esq Suss. 19 Junij 29 Sir John Savage of Rock-Savage Knight . ( English Earl viz. E. Rivers ) Chesh. 20 Sir Francis Barington of Barington-hall Knight . Essex . 21 Henry Berkely of Wimundham Esq ( Extinct ) . Leic. 22 Will. Wentworth of Wentworth Woodhouse Esq ( English Earl viz. E. of Strafford ) Ebor. 23 Sir Richard Musgrave of Hartley Castle Knight . Westmerl . 24 Edward Seymour of Bury-Pomeray Esq Devon. 25 Sir Moyle Finch of Eastwell Knight . ( English Earl viz. E. of Winchelsey ) Rent 26 Sir Antony Cope of Hanwell Knight . Oxon. 27 Sir Thomas Mounson of Carleton Knight . Linc. ( Vide Charles Vavasor Junij 22. 1631 ) . 28 George Gresely of Drakedow Esq Derb. 29 Paul Tracy of Stanway Esq Glouc. 30 Sir John Wentworth of Goffield Knight . ( Extinct ) Essex . 31 Sir Henry Belasyse of Newborough Knight . ( English Visc. viz. Vicount Fauconberge ) Ebor. 32 William Constable of Flamborough Esq ( Extinct . ) Ebor. 33 Sir Thomas Leigh of Stoncley Knight . ( Eng. Baron viz. Lord Leigh ) Warw. 34 Sir Edward Noell of Brook Knight . ( Eng. Visc. viz. Vicount Campden ) Rutl. 35 Sir Robert Cotton of Connington Kt. Hunt. 36 Robert Cholmondeleigh of Cholmondeleigh Esq Irish Earl viz. E. of Lemester as also Engl. Baron viz. L. Cholmondeleigh of Wiche-malbank , alias Nant-wiche Extinct ) . Chesh. 37 John Molineux of Teversal Esq Nott. 38 Sir Francis Wortley of Wortley Knight . ( Extinct ) Ebor. 39 Sir George Savile senior of Thornehill Knight ( English Earl viz. Earl of Hallifax ) . Ebor. 40 William Kniveton of Mircaston Esq Derb. 41 Sir Philip Woodhouse of Wilberhall Knight . Norff. 42 Sir William Pope of Wilcot Knight . ( Irish Earl viz. Earl of Down ) . Oxon. 43 Sir James Harrington of Ridlington Kt. Rutl. 44 Sir Henry Savile of Methley Knight . ( Extinct ) . Ebor. 45 Henry Willoughby of Risley Esq ( Extinct ) . Darb. 46 Lewes Tresham of Rushton Esq ( Extinct ) . Northamp . 47 Thomas Brudenell of Deene Esq ( English Earl viz Earl of Cardigan ) . Norrhamp . 48 Sir George St. Paul of Snarsford Knight . ( Extinct ) . Linc. 49 Sir Philip Tirwhit of Stainefield Knight . Linc. 50 Sir Roger Dallison of Loughton Knight ( Extinct ) . Linc. 51 Sir Edward Carre of Sleford Knight . Linc. 52 Sir Edward Hussey of Hennington Kt. Linc. 53 L'Estrange Mordant of Massingham Esq Norff. 54 Thomas Bendish of Steeple Bamsted Esq Essex 55 Sir John Wynne of Gwedyr Kt. Caernarv . 56 Sir William Throckmorton of Tortworth Knight . Glouc. 57 Sir Richard Worseley of Appledore-combe Knight . Hants . 58 Richard Fleetwood of Calwiche Esq Staff. 59 Thomas Spenser of Yarnton Esq Oxon. 60 Sir John Tufton of Hothfield Knight . ( English Earl viz. E. of Thanet ) . Kent . 61 Sir Samuel Peyton of Knowlton Knight Kent . 62 Sir Charles Morrison of Cashio-Bury Knight ( Extinct ) . Hertf. 63 Sir Henry Baker of Sillinghurst Knight ( Extinct ) . Kent . 64 Roger Appleton of South-Bemsted Esq Essex . 65 Sir William Sidley of Ailesford Knight . Kent 66 Sir William Twisden of East-Peckham Knight . Kent 67 Sir Edward Hales of Wood-Church Knight . Kent 68 William Monys of Walwarsher Esq Rent 69 Thomas Mildmay of Mulsham Esq ( English Baron , viz. Lord Fitz-walter . ) Essex 70 Sir William Maynard of Eastanes-parva Kt. ( Irish and English Baron ) viz. Lord Maynard . Essex 71 Henry Lee of Quarendon Esq Buck. Anno Dom. 1612. Nov. 25. & Regis Jac. 10 72 Sir John Portman of Orchard Knight . Somers . 73 Sir Nicholas Saunderson of Saxby Knight ( Irish Visc. viz. Vicount Castleton ) Linc. 74 Sir Miles Sands of Wilberton Knight . ( Extinct ) Cambr. 75 William Gostwick of Willington Esq Bedf. 76 Thomas Puckering of Weston Esq ( Extinct ) . Hartf . 77 Sir William Wray of Glentworth Kt. Linc. 78 Sir William Ailoffe of Braxted-magna Knight . Essex 79 Sir Marmaduke Wivel of Constable-Burton Knight . Ebor. 80 John Pershall of Horsley Esq Staff. 81 Francis Englefield of Wotton-Basset Esq UUilts . 82 Sir Thomas Ridgway of Torre Knight ( Irish Earl viz. E. of London-Derry ) . Devon. 83 William Essex of Bewcot Esq Berks. 84 Sir Edward Georges of Langford Knight ( Irish Baron ) . viz. Lord Georges UUilts . 85 Edward Devereux of Castle-Bromwich Esq ( Eng. Visc. viz. Vicount Hereford ) UUarw. 86 Reginald Mohun of Boconnok Esq ( English Baron Viz. Lord Mohun ) Cornub. 87 Sir Harbottle Grimston of Bradfield Kt. Essex 88 Sir Thomas Holt of Aston juxta Bermingham Knight . UUarm. 89 Sir Robert Naper , alias Sandy , of Lewton-How Knight ( vid. John Napier Martij 4. 1660 ) . Bedf. 90 Paul Banning of Bentley-Parva Esq ( English Vic. viz. Vicount Banning Extinct ) . Essex 91 Sir Thomas Temple of Stow Knight . Buck. 92 Thomas Penyston of Leigh Esq Suss. Anno Dom. 1615. & Regis Jac. 13. 93 Maij 27 Thomas Blackston of Blackston Esq ( Extinct ) Durh. 94 Junij 10 Sir Robert Dormer of Wing Kt. ( English Earl ) viz. E. of Caernarvon . Buck. Anno Dom. 1617. & Regis Jac. 15. 95 Aprilis 5 Sir Rowland Egerton of Egerton Knight . Cestr. 96 Apr. 16 Roger Towneshend of Rainham Esq ( English Baron viz. Lord Towneshend ) . Norf. 97 Maij 1 Simon Clark of Salford Esq UUarm. 98 Oct. 2 Edward Fitton of Gawsworth Esq ( Extinct ) . Cestr. 99 Martij 11 Sir Richard Lucy of Broxburn Knight . ( Extinct ) . Hartf . Anno Dom. 1618. & Regis Jac. 16. 100 Maij 25 Sir Matthew Boynton of Bramston Knight . Ebor. 101 Julij 25 Thomas Littleton of Frankley Esq UUigorn . 102 Dec. 24. Sir Francis Leigh of Newnham Knight ( English Earl viz. Earl of Chichester Extinct ) UUarm. 103 Febr. 25 Thomas Burdet of Bramcote Esq UUarm. 104 Martij 1 George Morton of St. Andrews-Milborn Esq Dors. Anno Dom. 1619. & Regis Jac. 17. 105 Maij 31 Sir William Hervey of Kidbrook Knight with remainder to William Hervey his son , and to the Heirs males of the body of the said William . ( Irish and English Baron ; viz. Lord Hervey Extinct ) . Kent 106 Junij 4 Thomas Mackworth of Normanton Esq Rutl. 107 Junij 15 William Grey Esq son and Heir of Sir Ralph Grey of Chillingham Knight ( English Baron viz. Lord Grey of Warke ) Northumv 108 Julij 19 William Villers of Brookesby Esq The eldest Brother by a former Venter to George Villers , then Marquess , after Duke of Buckingham . Leic. 109 Julij 20 Sir James Ley of Westbury Knight , Serjeant at law , Lord Chief Justice of the King's Bench and afterwards Lord High Treasurer of England ( English Earl viz. E. of Marlborough Extinct ) UUilts . 110 Julij 21 William Hicks of Beverston Esq Glouc. 111 Sept. 17 Sir Thomas Beaumont of Cole-Orton Knight . ( Irish Vic. viz. Vicount Beaumont ) Lric. 112 Nov. 10 Henry Salisbury of Lleweny Esq Denb . 113 Nov. 16 Erasmus Driden of Canons-Ashby Esq Northamp . 114 Nov. 28 William Armine Esq son and heir to Sir William Armine of Osgodby Knight . ( Extinct ) Linc. 115 Dec. 1. Sir William Bamburgh of Howton Knight ( Extinct ) . Ebor. 116 Dec. 3 Edward Hartop of Freathby , Esq Leic. 117 Dec. 31 John Mill of Camoys-Court Esq Suss. 118 Jan. 31 Francis Radcliffe of Darwentwater Esq Cumber . 119 Febr. 6 Sir David Foulis of Ingleby Kt. Ebor. 120 Febr. 16 Thomas Philips of Barrington Esq Somers . 121 Martij 7 Sir Claudius Forster of Bambrough Castle Knight ( Extinct ) Northumb. 122 Martij 23 Anthony Chester of Chichley Esq Buck. Anno Dom. 1620. & Regis Jac. 18. 123 Martij 28 Sir Samuel Tryon of Layre-Marney Knight . Essex 124 Apr. 2 Adam Newton of Charleton Esq Kent 125 Apr. 12 Sir John Boteler of Hatfield-woodhall Knight . ( English Baron viz. Lord Boteler of Bramfield Extinct ) Hertf. 126 Apr. 13 Gilbert Gerard of Harrow on the Hill Esq Midd. 127 Maij 3 Humphrey Lee of Langley Esq Salo● 128 Maij 5 Richard Berney of Parkhall in Redham Esq Norff. 129 Maij 20 Humphrey Forster of Alder-Marston Esq Berks. 130 Maij 26 Thomas Biggs of Lenchwike Esq ( Extinct ) UUigorn . 131 Maij 30 Henry Bellingham of Helsington Esq ( Extinct ) UUestm●●● . 132 Maij 31 William Yelverton of Rougham Esq ( Extinct ) Norff. 133 Junij 1 John Scudamore of Home-Lacy Esq ( Irish Vic. viz. Vicount Scudamore ) Heref. 134 Junij 2 Sir Thomas Gore of Stitnam Knight . Ebor. 135 Junij 22 John Pakington of Alesbury Esq Buck. 136 Junij 28 Ralph Ashton of Lever Esq Lanc. 137 Julij 1 Sir Baptist Hicks of Camden Knight . ( English Visc. viz. Vicount Camden Extinct ) Glouc. 138 Julij 3 Sir Thomas Roberts of Glassenbury Knight . Kent 139 Julij 8 John Hanmer of Hanmer Esq Flint . 140 Edward Fryer of Water-Eaton Esq ( Extinct ) . Oxon. 141 Julij 13 Edward Osborne of Keeton Esq Vice-President of King Charles the first his Councill in the North ( English Earl viz. E. of Danby ) Ebor. 142 Julij 20 Henry Felton of Playford Esq Suss. 143 Julij 20 William Chaloner of Gisborough Esq ( Extinct ) Ebor. 144 Julij 24 Sir Thomas Bishop of Parham Knight . Suss. 145 Julij 26 Sir Francis Vincent of Stoke Dabernon Knight . Surr. 146 Febr 27 Henry Clere of Ormesby Esq ( Extinct ) Norff. 147 Martij 8 Sir Benjamin Tichburne of Tichburne Knight . Hantsh . Anno Dom. 1621. & Regis Jac. 19. 148 Maij 5 Sir Richard Wilbraham of Woodhey Knight . Cestr. 149 Maij 8 Sir Thomas Delves of Dodington Knight . Cestr. 150 Junij 23 Sir Lewes Watson of Rockingham Castle Knight ( English Baron viz. Lord Rockingham ) Northamp . 151 Junij 29 Sir Thomas Palmer of Wingham Knight . Kent 152 Julij 3 Sir Richard Roberts of Truro Knight ( English Earl viz. Earl of Radnor ) Cornub. 153 Julij 19 John Rivers of Chafford Esq Kent 154 Sept. 6 Thomas Darnell of Heyling Esq Linc. 155 Sept. 14 Sir Isaac Sidley of Great Chart Knight . Kent 156 Sept. 21 Robert Browne of Walcot Esq ( Extinct ) Northamp . 157 Oct. 11 John Hewet of Headley-Hall Esq Ebor. 158 Oct. 16 Henry Jernegan of Cossey alias Cossese Esq Norf. 159 Nov. 8 Sir Nicolas Hide of Albury Knight ( Extinct ) . Hartf . 160 Nov. 9 John Philips of Picton Esq Pembr . 161 Nov. 24 Sir John Stepney of Prendergast Knight . Pemb. 162 Dec. 5 Baldwin Wake of Clevedon Esq Somers . 163 Dec. 20 William Mashom of High-Laver Esq Essex 164 Dec. 21 John Colbrond of Borham Esq Suss. 165 Jan. 4 Sir John Hotham of Scarborough Knight Governor of Hull . Ebor. 166 Jan. 14 Francis Mansell of Mudlescombe Esq Caermarth . 167 Jan. 18 Edward Powell of Penkelley ( one of the Masters of the Requests ) ( Extinct ) Heref. 168 Febr. 16 Sir John Garrard of Lamer Knight . Hartf . 169 Febr. 23 Sir Richard Grosvenour of Eaton Knight . Cestr. 170 Martij 11 Sir Henry Moody of Garesdon Knight ( Extinct ) . Wilts . 171 Martij 17 John Barker of Grimston-Hall in Trimley Esq Suff. 172 Martij 18 Sir William Button of Alton Knight . Wilts . Anno Dom. 1622. & Regis Jac. 20. 173 Martij 26 John Gage of Ferle Esq Suss. 174 Maij 14 William Goring Esq son and heir of Sir Henry Goring of Burton Knight . Su●● . 175 Maij 18 Peter Courtene of Aldington alias Aunton Esq ( Extinct ) . Wigorn. 176 Maij 23 Sir Richard Norton of Rotherfild Knight . Ha●●s . 177 Maij 30 Sir John Leventhorpe of Shingley-Hall Knight . Hartt . 178 Junij 3 Capell Bedell of Hamerton Esq ( Extinct ) . Hunt. 179 Junij 13 John Darell of West-Woodhey Esq ( Extinct ) . Berks. 180 Junij 15 William Williams of Veynol Esq Caernarv . 181 Junij 18 Sir Francis Ashbey of Harfield Knight . Midd 182 Julij 3 Sir Anthony Ashley of St. Giles-Winburne Knight ( Extinct ) . Dorf . 183 Julij 4 John Cooper of Rockbourne Fsque ( English Earl viz. E. of Shaftesbury ) Hants . 184 Julij 17 Edmund Prideaux of Netherton Esq Devon. 185 Julij 21 Sir Thomas Haslerigge of Nosely Knight . Leic. 186 Julij 22 Sir Thomas Burton of Stockerston Knight . Leic. 187 Julij 24 Francis Folejambe of Walton Esq ( Extinct ) . Derb. 188 Julij 30 Edward Yate of Buckland Esq Berks. 189 Aug. 1 Geo. Chudleigh of Ashton Esq Devon. 190 Aug. 2 Francis Drake of Buckland Esq Devon. 191 Aug. 13 William Meredith of Stansly Esq Denb . 192 Oct. 22 Hugh Middleton of Ruthin Esq Denb . 193 Nov. 12 Gifford Thornehurst of Agnes-Court Esq Kent . 194 Nov. 16 Percy Herbert , son and Heir of Sir William Herbert of Red-Castle Knight . ( English Earl ) viz. Earl of Powis . Montgom . 195 Dec. 7 Sir Robert Fisher of Packington Knight . Warw. 196 Dec. 18 Hardolph Wastneys of Headon Esq Nott. 197 Dec. 20 Sir Henry Skipwith of Prestwould Knight . Leic. 198 Dec. 22 Thomas Harris of Boreatton Esq Salop. 199 Dec. 23 Nicholas Tempest of Stella Esq Durh. 200 Febr. 16 Francis Cottington Esq Secretary to King Charles the I. when Prince of Wales , afterwards passing thro several eminent employments and great Offices he was advanced to be Lord High Treasurer of England ( English Baron ziz . Lord Cottington Extinct ) . Anno Dom. 1623 & Regis Jac. 21 201 Apr 12 Thomas Harris of Tong-castle Serjeant at Law ( Extinct ) . Salop. 202 Junij 28 Edward Barkham of South-Acre Esq ( Lord Mayor of London ) . Norff. 203 Julij 4 John Corbet of Sprowston Esq ( Extinct ) . Norff. 204 Aug. 13 Sir Thomas Playters of Sotterly Esq Suff. BARONETS Created by K. Charles I. Anno Dom. 1626. & Regis Car. primi 2. 205 Julij 27 SIR John Ashfield of Netherhall Knight ( Extinct ) . Suff. 206 Sept 8 Henry Harpur of Calke Esq Derb 207 Dec. 20 Edward Seabright of Besford Esq Wigorn. 208 Jan. 29 John Beaumont of Gracedieu Esq Leic. 209 Febr. 1 Sir Edward Dering of Surrenden-Dering Knight . Kent 210 Febr. 5 George Kempe of Pentlone Esq ( Extinct ) Essex 211 Martij 10 William Brereton of Hanford Fsque ( Extinct ) . Cestr. 212 Martij 12 Patricius Curwen of Workinton Esq ( Extinct ) . Cumbr. 213 Martij 12 William Russel of Witley Esq Wigorn. 214 Martij 4 John Spenser of Offley Esq Hartf . 215 Matij 17 Sir Giles Estcourt of Newton Knight . Wilts . Anno Dom. 1627 & Regis Car. I. tertio . 216 Apr. 19 Thomas Aylesbury Esq ( one of the Masters of the Requests ) , ( Extinct ) . 217 Apr. 21 Thomas Style of Wateringbury Esq Kent 218 Maij 4 Frederick Cornwallis of Brome Esq Treasurer of the Houshold to King Charles the 2d ( English Baron viz. Lord Cornwallis ) Suff. 219 Maij 7 Drue Drury of Ridlesworth Esq Norff. 220 Maij 8 William Skeffington of Fisherwick Esq ( Irish Vic. viz. Vicount Massereene ) Staff. 221 Maij 11 Sir Robert Crane of Chilton Knight ( Extinct ) . Suff. 222 Maij 17 Anthony Wingfield of Goodwins Esq Suff. 223 Maij 17 William Culpeper of Preston-Hall Esq Kent . 224 Maij 17 Giles Bridges of Wilton Esq ( Engl. Baron ) viz. Lord Chandos . Heref. 225 Maij 17 John Kirle of Much-Marcle Esq Heref. 226 Maij 20 Sir Humphrey Stiles of Beckham Knight ( Extinct ) . Kent . 227 Maij 21 Henry Moor of Falley Esq Berks. 228 Maij 28 Thomas Heale of Fleet Esq Devon. 229 Maij 28 John Carleton of Holcum Esq ( Extinct ) . Oxon. 230 Maij 30 Thomas Maples of Stow Fsque ( Extinct ) . Hunt. 231 Maij 30 Sir John Isham of Lamport Knight . Northamp . 232 Maij 30 Hervey Bagot of Blithfield Esq Staff. 233 Maij 31 Lewes Pollard of King's Nimph Esq ( Extinct ) . Devon. 234 Junij 1 Francis Mannock of Gifford's-Hall in Stoke juxta Neyland Esq Suff. 235 Junij 7 Henry Griffith of Agnes-Burton Esq ( Extinct ) . Ebor. 236 Junij 8 Lodowicke Dyer of Staughton Esq Hunt. 237 Junij 9 Sir Hugh Stukely of Hinton Knight . Hants . 238 Junij 26 Edward Stanly of Bickerstaffe Esq Lanc. 239 Junij 28 Edward Littleton of Pillaton-Hall Esq Staff. 240 Julij 7 Ambrose Brown of Betsworth-Castle Esq Surr. 241 Julij 8 Sackvile Crow of Llanherne Esq for several years Embassador to the Grand Seignior . Caerm . 242 Julij 11 Michael Livesey of East-Church in the Isle of Shepey ( Extinct ) . Kent 243 Julij 17 Simon Bennet of Benhampton Esq ( Extinct ) . Buck. 244 Julij 19 Sir Thomas Fisher of the Parish of St. Giles Knight ( Extinct ) . Midd. 245 Julij 23 Thomas Bowyer of Leighthorn Esq ( vid. Sir James Bowyer May 18 1678 ) . Suff. 246 Julij 29 Buts Bacon of Mildenhall Esq Suff. 247 Sept. 19 John Corbet of Stoke in Com. Salop. Esq Salop. 248 Oct. 31 Sir Edward Tirrell of Thorneton Kt. ( vid. Sir Ed. Tirrell Feb. 19. 1638 ) Buck. 249 Febr. 18 Basill Dixwell of Terlingham , alias Gerelingham Esq ( Extinct ) . Kent 250 Martij 10 Sir Richard Young Knight one of the Gentlemen of His Majesties Privy Chamber ( Extinct ) . Anno Dom. 1628. & Regis Car. I. quarto . 251 Maij 6 William Pennyman the younger of Maske , alias Marske Esq A Collonell in the late Kings Army and sometime Governor of Oxford ( Extinct ) . Ebor. 252 Maij 7 William Stonehouse of Radley Esq ( v. Sir George Stonehouse May 5. 16●● ) Berks. 253 Maij 21 Sir Thomas Fouler of Islington Knight ( Extinct ) . Midd. 254 Junij 9 Sir John Fenwick of Fen wick Knight . Northumb. 255 Junij 30 Sir William Wray of Trebitch Knight . Cornub. 256 Julij 1 John Trelawney of Trelawney Esq Cornub. 257 Julij 14 John Conyers of Horden Gent. Durh. 258 Julij 24 John Bolles of Scampton Esq Linc. 259 Julij 25 Thomas Aston of Aston Esq Cestr. 260 Julij 30 Kenelme Jenoure of Much-Dunmore Esq Essex 261 Aug. 15 Sir John Price of Newtown Knight . Montgom . 262 Aug. 19 Sir Richard Beaumont of Whitley Knight ( Extinct ) . Ebor. 263 Aug. 29 William Wiseman of Canfield-Hall Esq Essex 264 Sept. 1 Thomas Nightingale of Newport-Pond Esq Essex 265 Sept. 2 John Jacques of Esq one of His Majesties Gent. Pensioners ( Extinct ) . Midd. 266 Sept. 6 Robert Dillington of in the Isle of Wight Esq Hants . 267 Sept. 12 Francis Pile of Compton Esq Berks. 268 Sept. 12 John Pole of Shur Esq Devon. 269 Sept. 14 William Lewes of Langors Esq ( Extinct ) . Brecknock . 270 Sept. 20 William Culpeper of Wakehurst Esq Suff. 271 Oct. 3 Peter Van-Loor of Tylehurst Esq ( Extinct ) . Berks. 272 Oct. 9 Sir John Lawrence of Iver Knight . Buck. 273 Oct. 23 Anthony Slingesby of Screvin Esq Ebor. 274 Oct. 24 Thomas Vavasour of Haselwood Esq Ebor. 275 Nov. 24 Robert Wolseley of Wolseley Esq Staff. 276 Dec. 8 Rice Rudd of Aberghaney Esq Cnerm . 277 Dec. 18 Richard Wiseman of Thurndersley Esq Essex 278 Dec. 19 Henry Forrers of Skellingthorpe Esq Linc. 279 Jan. 3 John Anderson of St. Ives Esq Hunt. 280 Jan. 19 Sir William Russel of Chippenham Knight . Cambr. 281 Jan. 29 Richard Everard of Much-Waltham Esq Essex 282 Jan. 21 Thomas Powell of Berkinhead Esq Cestr. 283 Martij 2 William Luckin of Waltham Esq Essex Anno Dom. 1629. & Regis Car. I. quinto . 284 Martij 29 Richard Graham of Eske Esq ( Scottish Vicount viz. Vic. Preston ) . Cumber . 285 Apr. 2 George Twisleton of Barly Esq ( Extinct ) . Ebor. 286 Maij 30 William Acton of the City of London Esq ( Extinct ) . Lond. 287 Junij 1 Nicholas L'Estrange of Hunstanton Esq Norff. 288 Junij 15 John Holland of Quiddenham Esq Norff. 289 Junij 24 Edward Aleyn of Hatfield Esq ( Extinct ) . Essex . 290 Julij 2 Richard Earl , of Craglethorp Esq Linc. 291 Nov. 28 Robert Ducy Lord Mayor of London Lond. Anno Dom. 1630. & Regis Car. I. sexto . 292 Apr. 9 Sir Richard Grenevile Knight , ( younger brother to Sir Bevill Grenevile ) of Kilkhampton , in Com. Cornw. ( Extinct ) . Cornub. Anno Dom. 1631. & Regis Car. I. septimo . 293 Junij 22 Charles Vavasour of Killingthorpe Esq with an especial clause of precedency , viz. to take place next below Sir Thomas Mounson of Carleton , in Comm. Linc. Bart. and next above Sir George Gresely of Drakelow , in Comm. Derb. Baronet created 29 Junij 1611. Linc. Anno Dom. 1638. & Regis Car. I. xiv . 294 Febr. 19 Sir Edward Tirrell of Thorn●●● Knight , with remainder to the heirs male of Toby Tirrell one of the sons of the said Sir Edward Tirrell ; and for default of such Issue , on Francis Tirrell another of the sons of the said Sir Edward , and the heirs male of the body of him the said Francis. And to have precedency from the 31 of Oct. Anno tertio Car. Reg. according to a Patent then granted to him the said Sir Edward Tirrell , which was surrendred upon the sealing of this present Patent . Buck. Anno Dom. 1640. & Regis Car. I. xvj . 295 Julij 20 Edward Moseley of Rowlston Esq ( Extinct ) . Staff. 296 Jan. 8 Martin Lumley of Bradfield Esq Essex 297 Febr. 15 William Dalston of Dalston Esq Cumber . 298 Febr. 19 Henry Fletcher of Hutton in the Forrest Esq Cumber . 299 Martij 4 Nicholas Cole of Brancepeth Esq Durh. Anno Dom. 1641. & Regis Car. I. xvij . 300 Apr. 23 Edmund Pye of Leekhamsted Esq ( Extinct ) . Buck. 301 Maij 26 Simon Every of Egginton Esq Derb. 302 Maij 29 William Langley of Higham-Gobion Esq Bedf. 303 Junij 8 William Paston of Oxnead Esq ( English Earl viz. Earl of Yarmouth ) . Norff. 304 Junij 11 James Stonehouse of Amerden-Hall Esq Essex 305 Junij 24 John Palgrave of Norwood-Barningham Esq Norff. 306 Junij 25 Gerard Napper of Middle-Merthall Esq Dors. 307 Junij 28 Tho. Whitmore of Apley Esq. Salop. 308 Junij 29 John Maney of Linton Esq Kent 309 Junij 30 Sir Thomas Cave jun. of Stanford Knight . Northamp . 310 Junij 30 Sir Christopher Yelverton of Easton-Mauduit Knight ( Engl. Baron viz. Lord Grey ) . Northamp . 311 Julij 3 William Boteler of Teston Esq Kent 312 Julij 5 Sir Thomas Hatton of Long-Stanton Knight . Cambr. 313 Julij 7 Thomas Abdy of Felx-Hall Esq Essex 314 Julij 14 Thomas Bampfield of Poltmore Esq Devon. 315 Julij 14 Sir John Cotton of Landwade Knight . Cambr. 316 Julij 15 Sir Simonds D'Ewes of Stow-Hall Knight . Suff. 317 Julij 15 Henry Frederick Thinne of Cause-Castle Esq Salop. 318 Julij 15 John Burgoyne of Sutton Esq Bedf. 319 Julij 16 John Northcote of Haine Esq Devon. 320 Julij 17 Sir William Drake of Sherdelow Knight . Buck. 321 Julij 23 Thomas Rous of Rouse-Lench Esq Wigorn. 322 Julij 23 Raphe Hare of Stow-Bardo●e Esq Norff. 323 Julij 24 Sir John Norwich of Brampton Knight . Northamp . 324 Julij 26 John Brownlow of Belton prope Grantham Esq ( Extinct ) . Linc. 325 Julij 27 William Brownlow of Humby Esq Linc. 326 Julij 28 John Sidenham of Brimpton Esq Somers . 327 Julij 28 Henry Prat of Coleshall Esq ( Extinct ) . Berks. 328 Julij 28 Francis Nichols of Hardwick Esq Northamp . 329 Julij 30 Sir William Strickland of Boynton Knight . Ebor. 330 Aug. 4 Sir Thomas Wolriche of Dudmaston Knight . Salop. 331 Aug. 4 Thomas Mauleverer of Allerton Mauleverer Esq Ebor. 332 Aug. 4 William Boughton of Lawford Esq UUarw. 333 Aug. 4 John Chichester of Raleigh Esq Devon. 334 Aug. 4 Norton Knatchbull of Mersham-Hatch Esq Kent 335 Aug. 4 Hugh Windham of Pilsden-Court Esq ( Extinct ) . Dors. 336 Aug. 9 Rich. Carew of Antony Esq Cornub. 337 Aug. 9 William Castleton of Saint Edmonds-Bury Esq Suff. 338 Aug. 9 Ric. Price of Gogarthan Esq Cardigan . 339 Aug. 10 Hugh Cholmley of Whitby Esq Ebor. 340 Aug. 11 William Springe of Pakenham Esq Suff. 341 Aug. 11 Thomas Trevor of Enfield Esq ( Extinct ) . Midd. 342 Aug. 11 Sir John Curson of Kedleston ( Baronet of Scotland ) . Derb. 343 Aug. 11 Hugh Owen of Orrelton Esq Pembr . 344 Aug. 12 Morton Briggs of Haughton Esq Salop. 345 Aug. 12 Henry Heyman of Somerfield Esq Kent 346 Aug. 12 Thomas Sandford of Howgill-Castle Esq Westmerl . 347 Aug. 14 Sir Francis Rhodes of Barlbrough Knight . Derb. 348 Aug. 14 Richard Sprignell of Coppenthorpe Esq Ebor. 349 Aug. 14 Sir John Potts of Mannington Knight . Norff. 350 Aug. 14 Sir John Goodrick of Ribstan Knight . Ebor. 351 Aug. 16 Robert Bindlosse of Borwicke Esq Lanc. 352 Aug. 16 Will. Walter of Saresden Esq Dron . 353 Aug. 16 Thomas Lawley of Spoonhill Esq Salop. 354 Sept. 6 William Farmer of Eston-Neston Esq Northamp . 355 Sept. 9 John Davye of Creedy Esq Devon. 356 Sept. 23 Thomas Pettus of Rackheath Esq Norf. 357 Dec. 11 William Andrews of Denton ( alias Dodington ) Esq Northamp . 358 Dec. 11 John Meaux of in the Isle of Wight Esq Hants . 359 Dec. 14 Sir Richard Gurney , Knight . The signally Loyall Lord Mayor of London ( Extinct ) . Lond. 360 Dec. 15 Thomas Willys of Fen-Ditton Fsque Cambr. 361 Dec. 15 Francis Armitage of Kirklees Esq Ebor. 362 Dec. 18 Rich. Halford of Wistow Esq Leic. 363 Dec. 24 Sir Humphrey Tufton of the Mote , juxta Maidston Knight . Kent 364 Dec. 30 Edward Coke of Langford Esq Derb. 365 Jan. 21 Isaac Astley of Melton-Constable Esq ( Extinct ) . Norff. 366 Jan. 21 Sir David Cunningham Baronet of Scotland ( Extinct ) . Lond. 367 Jan. 22 Sir John Rayney of Wrotham , Baronet of Scotland . Kent 368 Jan. 29 Revet Eldred of Saxham magna Esq ( Extinct ) . Suff. 369 Jan. 29 John Gell of Hopton Esq Derb. 370 Jan. 29 Sir Vincent Corbet of Morton-Corbet Knight . Salop. 371 Febr. 4 Sir John Kay of Woodsome Kt. Ebor. 372 Febr. 5 Thomas Trollop of Casewick Esq Linc. 373 Martij 3 Edward Thomas of Michaells-Towne Esq Glam . 374 Martij 4 Sir William Cowper of Ratling-Court , Baronet of Scotland . Kent 375 Martij 5 Denner Strut of Little Worley Hall Esq Essex 376 Martij 8 William St. Quintin of Harpham Esq Ebor. 377 Martij 14 Sir Robert Kempe of Gissing Knight . Norff. 378 Martij 16 John Reade of Brocket-Hall Esq Hartf . Anno Dom. 1642. & Regis Car. 1. xviij . 379 Apr. 9 James Enyan of Flowre Esq ( Extinct ) . Northamp . 380 Apr. 19 Sir Edmund Williams of Marnehull Knight ( Extinct ) . Dors. 381 Apr. 22 John Williams of Minster in the Isle of Thanet . Kent 382 Apr. 29 George Wintour of Huddington Esq UUigorn . 383 Maij 4 John Borlase of Bockmer Esq Buck. 384 Maij 6 Henry Knollys of Groveplace Esq ( Extinct ) . Hants . 385 Maij 11 John Hamilton of London Esq Lond. 386 Maij 12 Edward Morgan of Llanternam Esq Monm . 387 Maij 13 Sir Nicholas Kemeys of Keven-Mabley Knight . Glam . 388 Maij 14 Trevor Williams of Llangibbye Esq Monm . 389 Maij 16 John Reresby of Thribergh Esq Ebor. 390 Maij 17 Will. Ingilby of Ripley Esq Ebor. 391 Maij 18 Poynings Moore of Loseley Esq Surr. 392 Maij 19 Christopher Dawney of Cowick Esq Ebor. 393 Junij 3 Thomas Hampson of Taplow Esq Buck. 394 Junij 3 Thomas Williamson of East-Markham Esq Nott. 395 Junij 3 William Denney of Gillingham Esq ( Extinct ) . Norff. 396 Junij 3 Sir Richard Hardres of Hardres Kent 397 Junij 11 Christopher Lowther of Whit-Haven Esq Cumber . 398 Junij 13 Sir Tho. Alston of Odell Kt. Bedf. 399 Junij 20 Edward Corbet of Leighton Esq Montgom . 400 Junij 24 George Middleton of Leighton Esq ( Extinct ) . Lanc. 401 Junij 28 Edward Payler of Thoraldby Esq Ebor. 402 Julij 9 Sir William Widdrington of Widdrington Knight ( English Baron viz. Lord Widdrington ) . Northumv . 403 Julij 20 Matthew Valckenburg of Middle-Ing Esq Ebor. 404 Julij 20 Philip Constable of Everingham Esq Ebor. 405 Julij 30 Ralph Blackston of Gibside Esq Durh. 406 Aug. 8 Sir Edward Widdrington of Cartington , Baronet of Scotland . Northumb. 407 Aug. 15 Robert Markham of Sedgbrook Esq Linc. 408 Aug. 15 Philip Hungate of Saxton Esq Ebor. 409 Aug. 15 Stephen Lennard of West-Wickham Esq Kent 410 Aug. 24 Sir William Thorold of Marston Knight . Linc. 411 Aug 29 Walter Rudston of Hayton Esq Ebor. 412 Aug. 30 Walter Wrotesley of Wrotesly Esq Staff. 413 Aug. 30 Thomas Bland of Kippax-Park Esq 414 Sept. 1 Robert Throckmorton of Coughton Esq UUarw. 415 Sept. 10 Will. Halton of Samford Esq Essex 416 Sept. 26 Brocket Spenser of Offley Esq Hartf . 417 Sept. 27 Edward Golding of Colston-Basset Esq Nott. 418 Sept. 27 William Smith of Crantock Esq Cornub. 419 Oct. 1 Henry Henn of Wingfield Esq Berks. 420 Oct. 5 Walter Blount of Sodington Esq Wigorn. 421 Oct. 14 Adam Littleton of Stoke-Milburge Esq Salop. 422 Nov. 2 Thomas Lidell of Ravensholme-Castle Esq Durh. 423 Nov. 9 Richard Lawday of the City of Exeter Esq ( Extinct ) . Devon. 424 Febr. 4 Thomas Chamberlain of Wickham Esq Oxon. 425 Febr. 28 Henry Hunloke of Wingarworth Esq Derb. 426 Febr. 28 Thomas Badd of Cames-Oysells Esq Hants . 427 Martij 20 Richard Crane of Wood-Rising Esq ( Extinct ) . N●rff . 428 Martij 21 Samuel Danvers of Culworth Esq Northamp . Anno Dom. 1643. & Regis Car. 1. xix . 429 Julij 3 Henry Anderson of Penley Esq Hartf . 430 William Vavasour of Esq ( Extinct ) Ebor. 431 Julij 25 Sir Henry Jones of Abermarles Knight . Caernarv . 432 Aug. 1 Sir Edward Waldgrave of Hever-Castle Knight . Kent 433 Oct. 28 John Pate of Sysonby Esq ( Extinct ) . Lric. 434 Nov. 9 John Bale of Carleton-Curley Esq ( Extinct ) . Lric. 435 Nov. 13 Brian O Nele of in Comm. Dublin Esq Irish. 436 Nov. 16 Willoughby Hickman of Gaynesborough Esq Linc. 437 Dec. 7 John Butler of Bramfield Esq Hartf . 438 Jan. 17 Edward Acton of Aldenham Esq Salop. 439 Martij 14 Sir Francis Hawley of Buckland Knight . ( Irish Baron viz. L. Hawley ) Somers . Anno Dom. 1644. & Regis Car. 1. xx . 440 Apr. 1 John Preston of the Mannour in Furnesse Esq Lanc. 441 Apr. 2 John Web of Odstoke Esq UUilts . 442 Apr. 25 Thomas Prestwich of Holme Esq Lanc. 443 Maij 4 Henry Williams of Guernevet Esq Breckn . 444 Maij 20 Gervase Lucas of Fenton Esq Governor of Belvoir-Castle for King Charles the I. in time of the late horrible rebellion ( Extinct ) . Linc. 445 Junij 14 Robert Thorold of Hawley Esq Linc. 446 Julij 23 John Scudamore of Balingham Esq Heref. 447 Oct. 8 Sir Henry Bard of Stanes Knight , a commander in the late kings Army , and Embassadour from our present Soveraign to the Emperour of Persia ( Irish Viscount viz. Vic. Bellamount Extinct ) . Midd. 448 Febr. 12 Sir Richard Vivian of Trelowren Knight . Cornub , 449 Febr. 28 William Van-Colster of Amsterdam in Holland . 450 Martij 21 William de Boreel of Amsterdam in Holland . ( v. Hugh Ackland Jan. 21. 1677 ) . ( v. Francis Edwards Apr. 22. 1678 ) . Anno Dom. 1645. & Regis Car. 1. xxj . 451 Maij 9 George Carteret of Metesches in the Isle of Jersey Vice-Chamberlaine of the Kings Houshold , one of his Majesties most Honorable Privy-Councill , Treasurer of the Navy , since whose decease Sir George his Grandson and heir is lately Created an English Baron viz. Lord Carteret . Jersey . 452 Nov. 25 Thomas Windibanke of Haynes Esq UUilts . 453 Febr. 7 Benjamin Wright of Dennington Esq ( This Patent was afterwards Superseded by the Kings Warrant ) . Suff. 454 Martij 6 Edward Charleton of Hesleyside Gent. Northumb. Anno Dom. 1646. & Regis Car. 1. xxij . 455 Junij 11 Sir Richard Willis Knight ( Brother to Sir Thomas Willis of Fen-Ditton ) Colonel of a Regiment of Horse ; as also Colonel general of the Counties of Lincoln Notingh . and Rutland , and Governour of the town and Castle of Newarke . Cambr. BARONETS Created by K. Charles THE SECOND . Anno Dom. 1649. & Regis Car. 2. primo . 456 Sept. 1 RIchard Browne of Deptford Esq ( for several years Resident for King Charles I. and his now Majesty with the French Kings Lewis the 13th and the present King Lewis the 14th and one of the Clerks of his Majesties Most Honorable Privy Council ) by Letters Patents , Dated at St. Germans in France . Kent 457 Sept. 3 Henry de Vic of the Isle of Garnsey ( Resident for his late Majesty near twenty years in Bruxells ) afterwards Chancelour of the most Noble Order of the Garter , by Letters Patents , dated at St. Germans in France . Garnsey 458 Sept. 18 Richard Forster of Stokesley Esq ( by Letters Patents dated at St. Germans abovesaid ) . Ebor. Anno Dom. 1650. & Regis Car. 2. iij. 459 Sept. 2 Richard Fanshaw ( a younger Brother to Thomas Lord Viscount Fanshaw of Dromore in Ireland ) Secretary of State to his Majesty at Worcester Battel , where he was taken prisoner ; Master of the Requests ( since his Majesties Restauration ) and Embassador extraordinary in Spain and Portugal . Anno Dom. 1652. & Kegis Car. 2. v. 460 Apr. 2 William Curtius then Resident for His Majesty with Gustavus King of Sweden and the Princes of Germany . Anno Dom. 1657. & Regis Car. 2. ix . 461 Octob. 19 Sir Arthur Slingsby of near Canterbury ( by Letters Patents , Dated at Bruges in Flanders ) . Kent Anno Dom. 1658. & Regis Car. 2. x. 462 Thomas Orby of Esq Servant to the Queen Mother ( by Letters Patents bearing Date at Bruxells in Brabant ) . Linc. 463 Tho. Bond Esq ( Servant to the Queen Mother ) by Letters Patents bearing Date at Bruxells . 464 Aug. Arthur Marigny Carpentier ( a Frenchman ) at Bruxells . Anno Dom. 1659. & Regis Car. 2. xi . 465 Julij 1 Henry Browne of Kiddington Esq ( son of Sir Peter Browne Knight , slain in the service of K. Charles the first ) for default of issue male , to Francis his Brother &c. Dated at Bruxells . Oxon. Anno Dom. 1660. & Regis Car. 2. xij . 466 Apr. 2 Jeremy Whichcot of the Inner-Temple London . Bruxells 467 Sir Anthony de Merces ( a Frenchman ) Extinct . 468 Maij 29 ( Stilo Novo ) Sir John Evelin of by Letters Patents bearing Date at the Hague in Holland . 469 Maij 30 ( Stilo Novo ) Sir Gualter dc Raed of in Holland . 470 Junij 7 Sir Orlando Bridgeman of great Lever Knight , Chief Baron of the Exchequer , then Lord Chief justice of the Common pleas and afterward Lord-keeper of the Great seale of England . Lanc. 471 Junij 7 Sir Geofrey Palmer of Carleton Kt. Attourney General to his Majesty . Northamp . 472 Junij 7 Sir Heneage Finch of Raunston Kt. Sollicitor General to his Majesty , then Attourney General , now Lord Chancellor of England and English Earl viz. Earl of Nottingham . Buck. 473 Junij 7 Sir John Langham of Cotsbrooke Knight Alderman of London . Northamp . 474 Junij 9 Humphrey Winch of Hannes Esq now one of the Commissioners of the Admiralty . Bedf. 475 Junij 9 Sir Robert Abdy of Albins Kt. Essex 476 Junij 9 Thomas Draper of Sunninghill-Parke Esq Berks. 477 Junij 11 Henry Wright of Dagenham Esq ( Extinct ) . Essex 478 Junij 12 Jonathan Keate of the Hoo Esq Hertf. 479 Junij 12 Sir Hugh Speke of Hasilbury Knight . Wilts . 480 Junij 13 Nicholas Gould of the City of London Esq ( Extinct ) . Lond. 481 Junij 13 Sir Thomas Adams Knight Alderman of London . Lond. 482 Junij 13 Richard Atkins of Clapham Esq Surr. 483 Junij 14 Thomas Allen then Lord Mayor of London . Lond. 484 Junij 14 Henry North of Mildenhall Esq Suff. 485 Junij 15 Sir William Wiseman of Rivenham Knight . Essex 486 Junij 18 Thomas Cullum of Hastede Esq Suff. 487 Junij 20 Thomas Darcy of St. Cleres-Hall in St. Osith's , Esq Essex 488 Junij 20 George-Grubham How of Cold-Barwick Esq Wilts . 489 Junij 21 John Cuts of Childerley Esq ( Extinct ) . Cambr. 490 Junij 21 Solomon Swale of Swale-Hall Esq Ebor. 491 Junij 21 William Humble Citizen of London . Lond. 492 Junij 22 Henry Stapleton of Miton Esq Ebor. 493 Junij 22 Gervase Elwes of Stoke juxta Clare . Suff. 494 Junij 22 Rob. Cordell of Melford Esq Suff. 495 Junij 22 Sir John Robinson Knight , Lord Mayor , and Lievtenant of the Tower , of London Lond. 496 Junij 22 Sir John Abdy of Moores Knight ( Extinct ) . Essex 497 Junij 25 Sir Robert Hilliard of Patrington Knight . Ebor. 498 Junij 25 Jacob Astley of Hill-Morton Esq Warw. 499 Junij 25 Sir William Bowyer of Denham Knight . Buck 500 Junij 25 Thomas Stanley of Alderley Esq Cestr 501 Junij 26 John Shuckborough of Shuckborough Esq UUarw. 502 Junij 27 William Wray of Ashby Esq Linc 503 Junij 27 Nicholas Steward of Hartley-Mauduit Esq Hants 504 Junij 27 George Warburton of Areley Esq Cestr 505 Junij 27 Francis Holles of Winterburn Esq ( son and heir to Denzill Lord Holles ) English Baron viz. Lord Holles . Dors 506 Junij 28 Oliver St. John of Woodford Esq Northamp 507 Junij 29 Ralph de la Val of Seton Esq Northumb 508 Junij 30 Andraeas Henley of Henley Esq Somers 509 Junij 30 Thomas Ellis of Wyham Esq Linc 510 Julij 2 John Covert of Slangham Esq Suss 511 Julij 2 Peter Lear of London Gent. Lond 512 Julij 2 Maurice Berkley of Bruton Esq ( Irish Visc. viz. Vic. Fitz-Harding ) . Somers . 513 Julij 3 Henry Hudson of Melton-Moubray Esq Leic. 514 Julij 3 Thomas Herbert of Tinterne Esq Monm . 515 Julij 4 Tho. Middleton of Chirk Esq Denb . 516 Julij 6 Verney Noell of Kirkby Esq Leic. 517 Julij 7 George Buswell of Clipston Esq Northamp . 518 Julij 10 Robert Austen of Bexley Esq Kent 519 Julij 12 Robert Hales of Bekeskurne Esq Kent 520 Julij 13 Sir William Boothby of Bradley-Ashe Knight . Derb. 521 Julij 14 Wolstan Dixey of Market-Bosworth Esq Leic. 522 Julij 16 John Bright of Badsworth Esq Ebor. 523 Julij 16 John Warner of Parham Esq 524 Julij 17 Sir Job Harby of Aldenham Knight . Hartf . 525 Julij 18 Samuel Morland , alias Morley of Suthamstede-Banaster Esq one of the Gentlemen of his Majesties Privy-Chamber in ordinary and master of the Mechanicks . Berks. 526 Julij 19 Sir Thomas Hewit of Pisho-Bury Knight . Hartf . 527 Julij 19 Edward Honywood of Evington Esq Kent 528 Julij 19 Basill Dixwell of Bromehouse Esq Kent 529 Julij 22 Richard Browne Lord Mayor of London . Lond. 530 Julij 23 Henry Vernon of Hodnet Esq Salop. 531 Julij 23 Sir John Aubrey of Llantrithied Knight . Glam . 532 Julij 23 William Thomas of Fowington Esq Suss. 533 Julij 25 Thomas Sclater Esq ( of Cambridge ) . Cambr. 534 Julij 25 Henry Conway of Botrithan Esq Flint . 535 Julij 26 Edward Green of Sonpford Esq Essex 536 Julij 28 John Stapeley of Patcham Esq Suss 537 Julij 30 Metcalfe Robinson of Newby Esq Ebor. 543 Aug. 6 Anthony Oldfield of Spalding Esq Linc. 544 Aug. 10 Peter Leicester of Tabley Esq Cestr. 545 Aug. 11 Sir William Wheeler of the City of Westm. Knight , with Remainder to Charles Wheeler Cosin to the said Sir William and the heirs males of the body of the said Charles . Midd. 546 Aug. 16 John Newton of Barscote Fsque Glouc. 547 Aug. 16 Thomas Lee of Hartwell Esq Buck. 548 Aug. 16 Thomas Smith of Hatherton Esq with Remainder ( for want of Issue male of his body ) to Laurence Smith his brother , &c. and for want of Issue male of Laurence , to Francis Smith his brother , &c. Cestr. 549 Aug. 17 Sir Ralph Ashton of Middleton Knight . Lanc. 550 Aug. 17 John Rous of Henham Esq Suff. 551 Aug. 22 Henry Massingbeard of Bratosts-Hall Esq Linc. 552 Aug. 28 John Hales of Coventre Esq Warm . 553 Aug. 30 Ralph Bovey of Hill-fields Esq ( Extinct ) . UUarm. 554 Aug. 30 John Knightley of Offchurch Esq UUarm. 555 Aug. 31 Sir John Drake of Ashe Kt. Devon. 556 Sept. 5 Oliver St. George of Carickermrick in the County of Trim Esq Ireland 557 Sept. 11 Sir John Bowyer of Knipersley Knight . Staff. 558 Sept. 13 Sir William Wilde Knight , Recorder of the City of London , afterwards one of the justices of the Kings Bench. Lond. 559 Sept. 19 Joseph Ashe of Tittenham Esq Midd. 560 Sept. 22 John How of Compton Esq Glouc. 561 Sept. 26 John Swinburne of Chap-Heton Esq Northumb. 562 Oct. 12 John Trot of Laverstoke Esq ( Extinct ) . Hants . 563 Oct. 13 Humphrey Miller of Oxenheath Esq Kent 564 Oct. 15 Sir John Lewes of Ledston Knight ( Extinct ) . Ebor. 565 Oct. 19 John Beale of Maidston Esq Kent 566 Oct. 16 Sir Richard Fraklin of Moore-Parke Knight . Hartf . 567 Nov. 8 William Russell of Langhorn Esq Caerm . 568 Nov. 9 Thomas Boothby of Friday-Hill in the Parish of Chingford Esq ( Extinct ) . Essex 569 Nov. 9 William Backhouse Esq Grandchild to Rowland Backhouse late Alderman of London ) ( Extinct ) . Midd. 570 Nov. 12 Sir John Cutler of the City of London Knight . Midd. 571 Nov. 16 Giles Mottet of Leige Esq 572 Nov. 21 Henry Gifford of Burstall Esq Leic. 573 Nov 21 Sir Thomas Foote Knight , Citizen of London . v. Arthur Onslow Maij 8. 1674. Midd. 574 Nov. 22 Thomas Manwaring of Over-Pever Esq Cestr. 575 Nov. 22 Thomas Bennet of Baberham Esq Cambr. 576 Nov. 29 John Wroth of Blendenhall . Kent 577 Dec. 3 George Wynne of Nostell Esq Ebor. 578 Dec. 4 Heneage Fetherston of Blakesware Esq Hartf . 579 Dec. 4 Humphrey Monnox of Wotton Esq Bedf. 580 Dec. 10 John Peyton of Dodington within the Isle of Ely Esq ( Extinct ) . Cambr. 581 Dec. 11 Edmund Anderson of Broughton Esq. Linc. 582 Dec. 11 John Fagg of Wiston Esq Suss. 583 Dec. 18 Matthew Herbert of Bromfield Esq Salop. 584 Dec. 19 Edward Ward of Bexley Esq Norff. 585 Dec. 22 John Keyt of Ebrington Esq Glouc. 586 Dec. 22 William Killegrew of Arwynike Esq with remainder to Peter Killegrew of Arwynike aforesaid Esq Son of Sir Peter Killegrew Knight . Cornub. 587 Dec. 22 John Buck of Lamby grange Esq Linc. 588 Dec. 24 William Frankland of Thirkelby Esq Ebor. 589 Dec. 24 Richard Stiddolph of Norbury Esq ( Extinct ) . Surr. 590 Dec. 24 William Gardner Citizen of London . Midd. 591 Dec. 28 William Juxon of Albourne Esq Suss. 592 Dec. 29 John Legard of Ganton Esq Ebor. 593 Dec. 31 George Marwood of Little-Buskby Esq Ebor. 594 Dec. 31 John Jackson of Hickleton Esq Ebor. 595 Jan. 2 Sir Henry Pickering of Whaddon Knight . Cantab. 596 Jan. 2 Henry Bedingfield of Oxbrough Esq Norff. 597 Jan. 4 Walter Plomer of the Inner-Temple London Esq Midd. 598 Jan. 8 Herbert Springet of Broyle Esq ( Extinct ) . Suss. 599 Jan. 23 William Powell ( alias Hinson ) of Pengethley Esq Heref. 600 Jan. 25 Robert Newton of the City of London Esq ( Extinct ) . Midd. 601 Jan. 29 Nicholas Staughton of Staughton Esq Surr. 602 Jan. 29 William Rokeby of Skyers Esq Ebor. 603 Febr. 2 Walter Ernley of New-Sarum Esq UUilts . 604 Febr. 2 John Hubaud of Ipsley Esq UUarw. 605 Febr. 7 Thomas Morgan of Langattock . Monm . 606 Febr. 9 George Lane of Tulske in the County of Roscommon Irish Viscount viz. Vic. Lanesborough . Ireland . 607 Febr. 13 George Wakefren of Beckford Esq Glouc. 608 Febr. 15 Benjamin Wright of Cranham Hall Essex 609 Febr. 18 John Colleton of the City of London Esq Midd. 610 Febr. 18 Sir James Modyford of the City of London Knight . Midd. 611 Febr. 21 Thomas Beaumont of Stoughtongrange Esq Leic. 612 Febr. 23 Edward Smith of Eshe Fsque Durh. Martij 4 John Napier , alias Sandy Esq with remainder to Alexander Napier , &c. with remainder to the heirs male of Sir Robert Napier Knight Grandfather to the said John : And with precedency before all Baronets made since the four and twentieth of September Anno 10. Regis Jac. at which time the said Sir Robert was Created a Baronet . Which Letters Patents so granted to the said Sir Robert Napier , were surendred by Sir Robert Napier ( father of the said John and Alexander ) lately deceased ; to the intent that the said degree of Baronet should be granted to himself , with remainder to the said John and Alexander . 613 Martij 4 Thomas Gifford of Castle-Jordan in the County of Meath ( Extinct ) . Ireland . 614 Martij 4 Tho. Clifton of Clifton Esq Lanc. 615 Martij 4 William Wilson of Eastborne Esq Suss. 616 Martij 4 Compton Read of Barton Esq Berks. 617 Martij 10 Sir Brian Broughton of Broughton Knight . Staff. 618 Martij 16 Robert Slingesby of New cells Esq Hartf . 619 Martij 16 John Crofts of Stow Esq Suff. 620 Martij 16 Ralph Verney of Middle-Claydon Esq Buck. 621 Martij 18 Robert Dicer of Uphall Esq Hartf . 622 Martij 20 John Bromfield of South warke Fsque Surr. 623 Martij 20 Thomas Rich of Sunning Esq Berks. 624 Martij 20 Edward Smith of Edmundthorpe Esq Leic. Anno Dom. 1661 & Regis Car. 2. xiij . 625 Martij 26 Walter Long of Whaddon Esq Wilts . 626 Martij 30 John Fetiplace of Chilrey Esq Bexks . 627 Apr. 8 Walter Hendley of Louchfield Esq Suss. 628 Apr. 9 William Parsons of Langley Esq Buck. 629 Apr. 9 John Cambell of Woodford Esq ( Extinct ) . Essex 630 Apr. 20 William Morrice of Werrington Esq eldest son to William Morrice Knight ( one of His Majesties Principall Secretaries of State ) . Devon. 631 Apr. 20 Sir Charles Gawdey of Crowshall Knight . Suff. 632 Apr. 29 William Godolphin of Godolphin Esq Cornub. 633 Apr. 26 William Caley of Brumpton Esq Ebor. 634 Apr. 30 Thomas Curson of Water-Perry Esq Oxon. 635 Maij 1 Edmund Fowell of Fowell Esq Devon. 636 Maij 7 John Cropley of Clerkenwell Esq Midd. 637 Maij 10 William Smith of Red-Cliff Esq Buck. 638 Maij 10 George Cooke of Wheatley Esq Ebor. 639 Maij 10 Charles Llhoyd of Garth Esq Montgom . 640 Maij 10 Nathaniel Powell of Ewhurst Esq Essex 641 Maij 15 Denney Ashburnham of Bromham Esq Suss. 642 Maij 16 Hugh Smith of Long-Ashton Esq Somers . 643 Maij 18 Robert Jenkinson of Walcot Esq Oxon. 644 Maij 20 William Glinne of Bisseter alias Burncester Esq Oxon. 645 Maij 21 John Charnok of Holcot Esq Bedf. 646 Maij 21 Robert Brooke of Netton Esq Suff. 647 Maij 25 Thomas Nevill of Holt Esq Leic. 648 Maij 27 Henry Andrews of Lathbury Esq Buck. 649 Junij 4 Anthony Craven of Spersholt Esq Berks. 650 Junij 5 John Clavering of Axwell Esq Durh. 651 Junij 8 Thomas Derham of West-Dereham Esq Norff. 652 Junij 17 William Stanley of Houton Esq Cestr. 653 Junij 17 Abraham Cullen of East-Shene Esq Surr. 654 Junij 17 James Roushout of Milnst-Maylers Esq Essex 655 Junij 17 Godfrey Copley of Sprotborough Esq Ebor. 656 Junij 17 Griffith Williams of Penrhin Esq Caern . 657 Junij 18 Henry Winchecumbe of Buckdebury Esq Bexks . 658 Junij 18 Clement Clarke of Lande-Abby Esq Leic. 659 Junij 18 Thomas Viner Alderman of London . Midd. 660 Julij 18 John Sylyard of de la Warre Esq Kent 661 Julij 10 Christopher Guise of Elsmore Esq Glouc. 662 Julij 11 Reginald Forster of East-Grenewiche Esq Kent 663 Julij 16 Philip Parker of Erwarton Esq 664 Julij 16 Sir Edward Duke of Denhall Knight . Suff. 665 Julij 21 Charles Hussey of Caythorp Esq Linc. 666 Julij 21 Edward Barkham of Waynflete Esq Linc. 667 Julij 23 Thomas Norton of the City of Coventry Esq Warw. 668 Julij 23 John Dormer of the Grange Esq Buck. 669 Aug. 2 Thomas Carew of Haccombe Esq Devon. 670 Aug. 7 Mark Milbanke of Halnaby Ebor. 671 Aug. 16 Richard Rothwell of Ewerby and Stapleford Esq Linc. 672 Aug. 22 John Bankes of the City of London . ( now of Alesford in Kent ) . Midd. 673 Aug. 30 Henry Ingoldsby of Lethenborow Esq Buck. 674 Sept. 3 Francis Bickley of Attilborough . Norff. 675 Sept. 5 Robert Jason of Broad-Somerford Esq Wilts . 676 Sept. 26 Sir John Young of Culliton Knight . Devon. 677 Oct. 4 John Frederick van Freisendorf of Herdick , Lord of Kymp , of Councill to the King of Sweden , and Embassadour extraordinary to His Majesty King Charles the II. 678 Nov. 8 William Roberts of Willesdon Esq Bidd . 679 Nov. 15 William Luckin of Waltham . Essex . 680 Nov. 28 Thomas Smith of Hill-Hall . Essex 681 Dec. 3 Edwyn Sadler of Temple-Donesley Esq Hartf . 682 Dec. 9 Sir William Windham of Orchard-Windham Knight . Somers . 683 Jan. 24 George Southcote of Bliborough Esq Linc. 684 Jan. 24 George Trevilian of Nettlecombe Esq Somers . Anno Dom. & Regis Car. 2. xiv . 685 Febr. 4 Francis Duncombe of Tangley Esq Surr. 686 Febr. 7 Nicholas Bacon of Gillingham Esq Norff. 687 Febr. 7 Richard Cox of Dumbleton . Glouc. 688 Febr. 11 John Osburne of Chicksand Esq Bedf. 689 Febr. 27 John Coriton of Newton Esq Cornub. 690 Febr. 28 John Llhoyd of Woking Esq Surr. 691 Martij 1 Edward Moore of Moorehall Esq Note That this patent to Edward Moore , though at this time the Recepi was made , did not pass the Seal until 22. Nov. 1675. Lanc. 692 Martij 7 Tho. Proby of Elton Hall Esq Hunt. 693 Martij 20 Miles Stapleton of Carleton Esq Ebor. Anno Dom. 1662. & Regis Car. 2. xiv . 694 Apr. 16 Sir Richard Braham of New-Windsor Knight . Berks. 695 Maij 2 Sir John Witerong of Stantonbury Knight . Buck. 696 Junij 13 Philip Matthews of great Gobions in Collyer-Rowward Esq Essex 697 Julij 1 Robert Bernard of Huntingdon Esq Serjeant at Law. Hunt. 698 Julij 15 Roger Lort of Stock-poole Esq Pembr . 699 Julij 15 Edward Gage of Hargrave Esq Suff. 700 Julij 22 Thomas Hooke of Flanchford . Surr. 701 Julij 24 John Savile of Copley Esq Ebor. 702 Aug. 5 Christopher Wandesford of Kirklington Esq Ebor. 703 Aug. 13 Richard Astley of Patshull Esq Staff. 704 Aug. 16 Sir Jacob Gerard of Langford Knight . Norff. 705 Aug. 21 Edward Fust of Hill Esq Glouc. 706 Sept. 1 Robert Long of the City of Westminster Esq Auditor General of the Exchequer and one of his Majesties most Honorable Privy Council with remainder for lack of Issue male upon John Long of Draycot-cerne in Com. Wilts . and the heirs male of his body . Bidd . 707 Sept. 13 Sir Robert Can of Compton-Greenfield Knight . Glouc. 708 Oct. 24 William Middleton of Belsey-Castle Esq Northumb. 709 Nov. 17 Richard Graham of Norton-Coniers Esq. Ebor. 710 Nov. 17 Thomas Tankard of Burrow-Brigg Esq Ebor. 711 Nov. 20 Cuthbert Heroh of Chipchase Esq Northumb. 712 Nov. 29 Sir Francis Wenman of Caswell Knight . Dron . 713 Dec. 4 Henry Purefey ( son and heir to George Purefey of Wadley Esq ) Berks. 714 Dec. 9 Thomas Cobb of Adderbury Esq Dron . 715 Dec. 12 Henry Brook of Norton Esq Cestr. 716 Dec. 22 Peter Pindar of Edinshaw Esq Cestr. 717 Jan. 19 Sir Nicholas Slaning of Mariston Knight of the Bath and Standard bearer to the band of Gentlemen Pensioners . Devon. 718 Jan. 22 Sir George Reeve of Thwayte Knight . Suff. Anno Dom. & Regis Car. 2. xv . 719 Martij 18 Thomas Brograve of Hammels Esq Hartf . Anno Dom. 1663. & Regis Car. 2. xv . 720 Apr. 7 Sir Thomas Bernardeston of Ketton alias Kedington Knight . Suff. 721 Maij 11 Samuell Bernardeston of Bright-Hall Esq and to the heirs males of his boby ; and for want of such issue to Nathaniel Bernardeston of Hackney Esq &c. with remainder to Pelitiax Bernardeston of London Esq &c. Suff. 722 Junij 1 Sir John Daws of Putney Kt. Bidd . 723 Junij 1 Sir John Holman of Banbury Knight . Dron . 724 Junij 29 William Cook of Bromehall Esq Norff. 725 Junij 30 John Bellot of Moreton Esq Cestr. 726 Julij 1 Sir George Downing of East-Hatley Knight , Embassador in Holland , Secretary to the Treasury and now one of his Majesties Commissioners of the Customes . Cambr. 727 Julij 13 William Gawdey of West-Herting Esq Norff. 728 Julij 14 Sir Charles Pym of Brymmore Knight . Sonters . 729 Julij 29 Sir William D'oyley of Shottesham Knight . Norff. 730 Aug. 12 Sir John Marsham of Cuckston Knight . Kent 731 Aug. 15 Robert Barnham of Boughton Munchensye Esq Kent 732 Dec. 15 Francis Leeke of Newarke upon Trent Esq Governor of Gravesend . Nott. 733 Dec. 30 John St. Barbe of Broadlands Esq Hants Anno Regis Car. 2 xvj . 734 Febr. 12 Thomas Cambell of Clay-Hall Esq Essex 735 Febr. 22 James Pennyman of Ormesby in Cleveland Esq Ebor. 736 Martij 1 Thomas Muddiford of Lincolns Inne Esq Midd. 737 Martij 3 George Selby of Whitehouse Esq Durh. Anno Dom. 1664. & Regis Car. 2. xvij . 738 Martij 31 Sir Edmund Fortescue of Fallowpit Knight . Devon. 739 Martij 31 Samuel Tuke of Cressing-Temple Esq Essex 740 Maij 25 John Tempest of Tonge Esq Ebor. 741 Junij 25 Littleton Osboldeston of Chadlinglington Esq Oxon. 742 Julij 1 Giles Tooker of Maddington Esq UUilts . 743 Julij 13 Stephen Anderson of Eyworth Esq Bedf. 744 Aug. 31 Thomas Bateman of How-Hall Esq Norff. 745 Sept. 26 Thomas Lorrayne of Kirke-Harle Esq Northumb. 746 Sept. 27 Thomas Wentworth of Bretton Esq Ebor. 747 Nov. 2 Sir Theophilus Biddulph of Westcombe Knight . Kent 748 Nov. 2 William Greene of Micham Esq ( Extinct ) . Surr. 749 Dec. 24 William Cookes of Norgrave Esq Wigorn. 750 Jan. 10 Sir John Wolstenholme of London Kt. ( one of the Farmers of the Customs ) . Midd. 751 Jan. 11 Sir John Jacob of Bromley Knight , ( another of the Farmers of His Majesties Customs ) . Midd. 752 Jan. 12 John Yeomans of the City of Bristol Esq Somers . 753 Jan. 13 John Pye of Hone Esq Derb. 754 Jan. 18 Thomas Taylor of the Parkehouse in the Parish of Maydston Esq Kent Anno Dom. Car. 2. xvij . 755 Martij 3 William Leman of Northaw , alias Northall Esq Hartf . Anno Dom. 1665. & Regis Car. 2. xvij . 756 Martij 30 Sir Robert Smith of Upton Knight . Essex 757 Apr. 14 Sir Nicholas Crispe of Hamersmith Knight . Midd. 758 Apr. 15 Sir John Shaw of the City of London Knight , ( one of the Farmers of His Majesties Customs ) . Midd. 759 Maij 10 John Browne of Caversham Esq Oxon. 760 Maij 20 George Rawden of Moira in Com. Downe Esq Ireland 761 Junij 8 Robert Jocelyn of Hyde-Hall Esq Hartf . 762 Junij 16 Robert Duckenfield junior of Duckenfield-Hall Esq Cestr. 763 Julij 6 John Lawson of Brough Esq Ebor. 764 Julij 20 Philip Tyrrell of Hanslap and Castlethorpe Esq Buck. 765 Julij 25 Francis Burdet of Burchet Esq Ebor. 766 Julij 26 George Moore of Mayds-Morton Esq Buck. 767 Sept. 9 Abell Barker of Hambleton , alias Hambledon Esq Kotel . 768 Dec. 12 Sir William Oglander of Nunwell in the Isle of Wight Knight . Hants . 769 Jan. 31 William Temple of Sheene Esq Resident for His Majesty at Bruxells . Afterwards Embassador to the States General of the united Provinces and one of his Majesties Plenipotentiaries at the Treaty of Nimmegen . Surr. 770 Martij 1 Sir William Swan of Southflete Knight . Kent 771 Martij 6 Anthony Shirley of Preston Esq Suss. 772 Martij 6 Maurice Diggs of Chilham-castle Esq ( Extinct ) . Kent 773 Martij 6 Peter Gleane of Hardwick Esq Norff. Anno Dom. 1666. & Regis Car. 2. xviij . 774 Maij 10 John Nelthorpe of Grays-Inne Esq Midd. 775 Maij 10 Sir Robert Viner Lord Mayor of London Knight . Midd. 776 Junij 13 Sir Thomas Twysden of Bradburne juxta East-Malling Knight , one of the Justices of the Kings Bench. Kent 777 Julij 4 Sir Anthony Aucher of Bishops Bourne Knight . Kent 778 Julij 7 John D'oylie of Chiselhamton Esq Oxon. 779 Julij 12 Edward Hoby of Bisham Esq Berks. 780 Julij 21 Thomas Put of Combe Esq Devon. 781 Oct. 22 John Tirell of Siringfield Esq son and heir apparent of Sir John Tirell of Heron in Com. Essex Knight . Essex 782 Nov. 17 Gilbert Gerard of Fiskerton , Entayling the same Title upon his issue male by Mary his second Wife , Daughter to Dr. John Cozens Lord Bishop of Durham . Linc. 783 Dec. 31 Sir Robert Yeomans of Redlands Knight . Glouc. 784 Jan. 16 Carr Scroope of Cockerington Esq Linc. 785 Jan. 29 Peter Fortescue of Wood Esq Devon. Anno Regis Car. 2. xix . 786 Feb. 7 Sir Richard Bettenson of Wimbleton Knight . Surr. 787 Martij 21 Algernon Peyton of Dodington in the Isle of Ely. Cantabr . Anno Dom. 1667. 788 Martij 28 Roger Martin of Long-Melford Esq Suff. 789 Maij 7 Richard Hastings of Redlench Esq Somers . 790 Maij 24 William Hanham of Winburne Esq Dors. Anno Dom. 1668. & Regis Car. 2. xx . 791 Julij 25 Francis Topp of Tormarton Esq Glouc. 792 Aug. 28 William Langhorne of the Inner-Temple London Esq Lond. Anno Dom. 1669. Car. 2. xxij . 793 Apr. 28 Edw. Mostyn of Talacre Esq Flynt . 794 Maij 5 Sir George Stonehouse , for life ( having surrendred his former Patent by a fine ) with remainder to John Stonehouse his second son and to the heirs male of his body ; and for lack of such issue to James his third son &c. with precedency to him and his sayd sons according to the first patent dated 7. Maij 1628. Berks. 795 Junij 4 Philip Carteret of St. Owen Esq Iersey 796 Oct. 25 Fulwar Skypwith of Newbold-Hall Esq UUarw. Anno Dom. 1670. Car. 2. xxiij . 797 Martij 22 Sir John Sabin of Eyne in the Parish of Gravenhurst Knight . Bedf. Anno Dom. 1671. Car. 2. xxiiij . 798 Junij 28 William Chater of Croft-Hall Esq Ebor. 799 Nov. 18 Herbert Croft of Croft-Castle ( son and heir to the Bishop of Hereford . ) Heref. 800 Dec. 11 John St. Aubin of Clowance Esq Cornub. Anno Dom. 1672. Car. 2. xxv . 801 Nov. 13 Robert Eden of West-Aukland Esq Durh. 802 Nov. 28 John Werden Esq Secretary to his Royal Highness the D. of York . Chesh. 803 Febr. 7 Thomas Allen of Blundesdon a Captain at sea , sometime Admiral in the Streights , then Controler of the Navy and one of the Commissioners thereof . Suff Anno Dom. 1673. 804 Junij 2 Francis Warre of Hestercombe Esq Somers . 805 Nov. 12 Orlando Bridgeman of Ridley Esq second son to Sir Orlando Bridgeman Knight and Baronet Lord-keeper of the great Seal of England . Chesh. 806 Nov. 18 Francis Windham of Trent Esq Somers . 807 Dec. 1 Arthur Harris of Stoford Esq Devon. 808 Dec. 12 William Blaket of Newcastle Esq Northumb. 809 Dec. 12 John Thompson of Haversham Esq Buck. Anno xxvi . Car. 2. 810 Junij 7 Halsewell Tint of Halsewell Esq Somers . Anno Dom. 1674. Car. 2. xxvij . 811 Martij 25 Cornelius Martin Trump Vice-Admiral of Holland and West-Friezland . 812 Maij 22 Sir Robert Parker of Ralton in the Parish of Willingdon Esq Suss. 813 Maij 20 John Sherrard of Lopthorpe Esq Linc. 814 Maij 8 Arthur Onslow of West-Clandon Esq in reversion after the death of his Father in law Sir Thomas Foote , without issue male ( who was created 21. Nov. 1660. ) and with the same precedency . Surr. 815 Oct. 30 Walter Cleargis of St. Martins in the Feilds Esq Midd 816 Nov. 2 Thomas Williams of Eltham Esq his Majesties Physitian in Ordinary . Kent 817 Dec. 26 Robert Filmer of East-Sutton Esq Kent Anno Dom. 1674. Car. 2. xxviij . 818 Febr. 24 Sir Edward Nevill of Grove Knight . Nott. Anno Dom. 1675. Car. 2 xxviij . 819 Apr. 23 Sir Richard Tulpe of Amsterdam in the Province of Holland Knight . 820 Dec. 22 Thomas Samuell of Upton Esq Northamp 821 Jan 24 Charles Rich of the City of London Gent for life with remainder to Rober● Rich of Sonden in Com. Essex Esq. mi● 822 Martij 11 Benjamin Maddox of Wormle Esq. Hert Anno Dom. 1676. Car. 2. XXIX . 823 Martij 29 Will. Barker of Bockenhall Esq E● 824 Junij 13 John Brookes Citizen of York Esq Ebor. 825 Junij 19 Rich. Head of Rochester Esq Kent 826 Junij 21 William Pennington of Moncaster Esq Cumbr. 827 Dec. 18 Bennet Hoskins of Harwood Esq Heref. 828 Febr. 8 Richard Standish of Esq Lans . 829 Febr. 26 Alexander Robertson , alias Colyear of the Province of Holland . 830 Martij 3 Tho. Dike of Horeham Esq Su●● . Anno Dom. 1677. 831 Martij 29 Sir Robert Cotton of Cumbermeir Knight . Chesh. 832 Apr. 7 Francis Willoughby of Wollaton Esq ( with remainder for lack of Issue male to Thomas his brother and to the heirs male of his body ) . Nott. 833 Junij 29 Ignatius Vitus , alias White ( second son of Sir Dominlck White of Lymerick in Ireland ) for want of Issue male , to his nephew Ignatius Maximilian Vitus , and to the heirs male of his body . Ireland 834 Julij 13 John Barlowe of Slebege Esq Pembr . 835 Julij 24 Richard Newdigate of Erdbury Serjeant at law . Warw. 836 Sept. 29 Richard Cust of Stanford Esq Linc. 837 Oct. 8 Francis Anderton of Lostoke Esq Lanc. 838 Oct. 18 James Simeon of Chilworth Esq Oxon. 839 Oct. 25 James Poole of Poole in Worrell Esq for lack of issue male to William his brother , and to the heirs male of his body . Chesh. 840 Dec. 31 George Wharton of Kirkby-Kendall Treasurer of the Ordnance . UUstmerl . 841 Jan. 21 Hugh Ackland of Columb-John Esq with a special clause for precedency before all Baronets created since the year 1644. Devon. Anno Dom. 1678. Car. 2. xxx . 842 Apr. 22 Francis Edwards of Shrewsbury Esq and to the heirs male of his body , with remainder to Thomas , Benjamin , Herbert and Jonathan and the heirs male of their bodies &c. and a speciall clause for precedency before all Baronets created after the year 1644. Salop. 843 Maij 8 Sir Henry Oxenden of Deane Kt. Lanc. 844 Maij 18 Sir James Bowyer of Leighthorne Baronet , Grandson and heir to Sir Thomas Bowyer Baronet ( created 23. Julij 3. Car. 1. ) surrendring his patent , had now a new Creation to that dignity , for life only ; the remainder to Henry Goring of Highden in the same county Esq and to the heirs males of his body , with the same precedency as the said Sir Thomas Bowyer enjoyed . Suss. 845 Junij 20 Walter Curle of Suberton Esq Hants . 846 Junij 22 Raphe Dutton of Sherborne Esq Glouc. 847 Julij 6 William Dyer of Totenham Esq Hertf. 848 Julij 18 Josias Childe of Wansted Esq Essex 849 Julij 27 Sir Thomas Skypwith of Metheringham Knight . Linc. 850 Dec. 6 Walter Hawkesworth of Hawkesworth Esq Ebor. 851 Junij 25 Jeremy Snow of Salesbery Esq Hertf. Anno Dom. 1679. Car. 2. xxxi . 852 Martij 29 William Kenrick of Whitley Esq Berks. 853 Julij 16 Sir Samuel Marrow of Berkswell Knight . Warw. 854 Nov. 17 Sir Roger Bradshaigh of Haigh Knight . Lanc. 855 Dec. 20 William Stapleton Esq Governor of the Leeward-Islands in America . 859 Jan. 27 Thomas-Pope Blount of Tittenhanger Esq Hertf. 857 Jan. 28 Sir George Walker of Bushey Knight . Hertf. Anno 1680. xxxij . Car. 2. 858 Oct. 22 Gelebrand Sas Van Bosch ( a Servant to the Prince of Orange . ) 859 Febr. 2 John Roberts of Bowe Esq Essex Anno 1681. 860 Apr. 15 Roger Beckwith of Alborough Esq Ebor. 861 Maij 18 Thomas Parkyns of Bonney Esq Nott. 862 Junij 29 Thomas Bunbury of Bunbury and Stanney Esq Chesh. 863 Julij 1 Hugh Parker of the City of London Esq and to the heirs male of his body : with remainder to Henry Parker of Hunnington in Com. Warwick Esq &c. Land. 864 Julij 4 Henry Seymour Esq son and heir to Henry Seymour , one of the Groomes of his Majesties Bed-Chamber , and to the heirs mal● of his body ; with remainder to the said Henr● the father , and to the heirs male of his body . FINIS . An Exact Alphabetical Catalogue , of all the Shires , Cities , Burrough-Towns , Cinque-Ports in England and Wales ; Specifying the number of the Knights of the Shires , Citizens , Burghesses , and Barons of the Cinque-Ports , they do respectively elect , to serve as their Representatives in Parliaments . Before each Shire and Burrough of Wales a W is Prefixed . After the name of each Shire , is set down the number of Burghesses Citizens and Knights chosen in that Shire . Bur. ABington Berk-Shire Burghess 1 Amondesham vide Amersham Bur. St. Albans Herford-Shire Burg. 2 Bur. Aldborough Suffolke Burg. 2 Bur. Aldborough York-Shire Burg. 2 Bur. Alesbury or Aylesbury Bucks Burg. 2 Allerton v. North-Allerton Bur. Amersham alias Agmondesham Bucks Burg. 2 Bur. Andover Hantshire Burg. 2 W. Shire Anglesey Parliament Men 2 ; Burg. 1 and Knight 1 Bur. Appleby Westmorland Burg. 2 Bur. Arundel Sussex Burg. 2 Bur. Ashburton Devonshire Burg. 2 Bur. Banbury Oxford-Shire Burg. 1 Bur. Barnstable Devon-Shire Burg. 2 City Bath Somerset-Shire Citizens 2 Shire Bedford-Shire P. M. 4 ; Burg. 2 , and Knights 2 Bur. Bedford Bedford-Shire Burg. 2 Bedwyn v. Great-Bedwyn Bur. Berealston Devon-Shire Burg. 2 Shire Berks or Berkeshire P. M. 9 ; Burg. 7 ; and Knights 2 Bur. Berwicke upon Tweed Northumberland Burg. 2 Bur. Beaerly Yorkshire Burg. 2 Bur. Bewdlye Worcester-Shire Burg. 1 W. Bur. Bewmorris Anglesey Burg. 1 Bur. Bishops-Castle Shrop-shire Burg. 2 Bur. Blechingly Surry Burg. 2 Bur. Bodmin Cornwall Burg. 2 Bur. Bossiney Cornwall Burg. 2 Bur. Boston Lincoln-shire Burg. 2 Bur. Brackley Northampton-shire Burg. 2 Bur. Bramber Sussex Burg. 2 W. Shire Brecon alias Brecknock-Shire ; P. M. 2 ; Burg. 1 , and Knight 1 W. Bur. Brecon alias Brecknock Brecknock-sh . Burg. 1 Bur. Bridport Dorset-shire Burg. 2 Bur. Bridge-north , alias Bruges , Shropshire Burg. 2 Bur. Bridgwater Somerset-shire Burg. 2 City Bristol Somerset-shire Citizens 2 Bruges v. Bridge-north Shire Bucks alias Buckingham-shire P. M. 14 Burg. 12 , and Knights 2 Bur. Bucks alias Buckingham Buckinghamshire Burg. 2 Bur. Burroughbridge or Burroughbrig Yorkshire Burg. 2 Bury v. St. Edmonds-bury Bur. Calne Wiltshire Burg. 2 Shire Cambridge-sh . P. M. 6 ; Burg. 4 , and Knights 2 Bur. Cambridge University Burg. 2 Town Burg. 2 City Canterbury Kent Citizens 2 Bur. Camelford Cornwall Burg. 2 W. Shire Cardigan-sh . P. M. 2 , Burg. 1 , and Knight 1 W. Bur. Cardigan Cardigan-Shire Burg. 1 W. Bur. Cardiffe Glamorgan-Shire Burg. 1 W. Shire Carmarthen-Shire P. M. 2 ; Burg. 1 , and Knight 1 W. Bur. Carmarthen Carmarthenshire Burg 1 W. Bur. Carnarvon Carnarvon-Shire Burg 1 City Carlile Cumberland Citizens 2 Bur. Castle-Rising Norfolke Burg 2 Shire Chester P. M. 4 ; Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 City Chester Cheshire Citizens 2 City Chichester Sussex Citizens 2 Bur. Chippenham Wiltshire Burg. 2 Bur. Chipping-Wicomb Bucks . Burg. 2 Bur. Christs-Church Hantshire Burg. 2 Bur. Cirencester Gloucester-Shire Burg. 2 Clifton v. Dartmouth Bur. Clithero Lancashire Burg. 2 Bur. Cockermouth Cumberland Burg. 2 City Colchester Essex Citizens 2 Bur. Corfe-Castle in the Isle of Purbecke Dorsetshire Burg. 2 Shire Cornwall P. M. 44 Burg. 42 , and Knights 2 City Coventry Warwickshire Citizens 2 Crampound v. Grampound . Bur. Cricklade Wiltshire Burg. 2 Shire Cumberland P. M. 6 Burg. 4 , and Knights 2 Bur. Dartmouth Clifton , and Hardness Devonshire Burg. 2 W. Shire Denbigh-shire P. M. 2 , Burg. 1 , and Knight 1 W. Bur. Denbigh Denbigh-shire Burg. 1 Shire Derby-Shire P. M. 4 Burg. 2 , and Knights 2 Bur. Derby Derby-shire Burg. 2 Shire Devonshire P. M. 26 ; Burg. 22 , Citizens 2 and Knights 2 Bur. The Devizes Wiltshire Burg. 2 Shire Dorsetshire P. M. 20 ; Burg. 18 , and Knights 2 Bur. Dorchester Dorset-shire Burg. 2 Cinq . P. Dover Kent Barons 2 Bur. Downton Wiltshire Burg. 2 Bur. Droitwich Worcestershire Burg. 2 Dunhevet or Dunhivid v. Lanceston Bur. Dunwich Suffolk Burg. 2 Shire Durham P. M. 4 ; Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 City Durham Citizens 2 Bur. East Grinstead Sussex Burg. 2 Bur. East-Low Cornwall Burg. 2 Bur. East-Retford Nottingham-shire Burg. 2 Bur. St. Edmonds-Bury Suffolk Burg. 2 Shire Essex P. M. 8 , Burg. 6 , and Knights 2 Bur. Evesham Worcester-shire Burg. 2 Bur. Eye Suffolk Burg. 2 City Exeter , alias Exon Devonshite Citizens 2 W. Shire Flintshire P. M. 2 ; Burg. 1 and Knight 1 W. Bur. Flint Flintshire Burg. 1 Bur. Fowey , or Foy Cornwall Burg. 2 Bur. Gatton Surry Burg. 2 Bur. St. Germains , or Jermins Cornwall Burg. 2 W. Shire Glamorganshire P. M. 2 ; Burg. 1 and Kt. 1 Shire Gloucestershire P. M. 8 ; Burg. 4 , Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 City Gloucester Gloucestershire Citizens 2 Bur. Grampound or Crampound Cornwall Burg. 2 Bur. Grantham Lincoln-shire Burg. 2 Bur. Great-Bedwyn Wiltshire Burg. 2 Bur. Great-Grimsby Lincoln-shire Burg. 2 Bur. Great-Marlow Bucks Burg. 2 Bur. Great-Wenlock Shrop-shire Burg. 2 Bur. Great-Yarmouth alias North-Yarmouth Norffolk Burg. 2 Grnistead v. East-Grinstead Bur. Guilford Surry Burg. 2 Shire Hampshire or Hantshire , alias Southampton P. M. 26 ; Burg. 22 , Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 Hardness v. Dartmouth Bur. Harwich Essex Burg. 2 Bur. Haslemere Surry Burg. 2 Cinq . P. Hastings Sussex Barons 2 W. Bur. Haverford-West Pembrook-shire Burg. 1 Bur. Helston Cornwall Burg. 2 Shire Hereford-shire P. M. 8 ; Burg. 4 , Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 City Hereford Hereford-shire Citizens 2 Shire Hertford P. M. 6 ; Burg. 4 , and Knights 2 Bur. Hertford Hertford-shire Burg. 2 Bur. Hetsbury or Heitsbury Wiltshire Burg. 2 Bur. Heydon Yorkshire Burg. 2 Bur. Higham-Ferrers Northampton-shire Burg. 1 Bur. Hindon Wiltshire Burg. 2 Bur. Honiton Devonshire Burg. 2 Bur. Horseham Sussex Burg. 2 Hull v. Kingston upon Hull Shire Huntingtonsh . P. M. 4 , Burg. 2 and Knights 2 Bur. Huntington Huntington-shire Burg. 2 Cinq . P. Hyth Kent Barons 2 St. Jermins v. St. Germains Bur. Ilcester Somerset-shire Burg. 2 Bur. Ipswich Suffolk Burg. 2 Bur. St. Ives Cornwall Burg 2 Shire Kent P. M. 10 ; Burg. 4 ; Citizens 4 , and Knights 2 Bur. Killington Cornwall Burg 2 Kings-Lyme , v. Lyme-Regis Kings-Lynn , v. Lyn-Regis Kings-Melcomb , v. Melcomb-Regis Bur. Kingston upon Hull Yorkshire Burg. 2 Bur. Knaesborough Yorkshire Burg. 2 Shire Lancaster , or Lancashire P. M. 14 ; Burg. 12 and Knights 2 Bur. Lancaster Lancashire Burg. 2 Bur. Lanceston Launcestoun or Launston alias Dunhevet Cornwall Burg. 2 Shire Leicestershire P. M. 4 ; Burg. 2 , and Knights 2 Bur. Leicester Leicestershire Burg. 2 Bur. Lempster Herefordshire Burg. 2 Bur. Leskard Cornwall Burg. 2 Bur. Lestathiel , Lestwithiel , or Lostwithiel Cornwall Burg. 2 Bur. Leverpoole , or Liverpoole Lancash . Burg. 2 Bur. Lewes Sussex Burg. 2 Bur. Limmington Hantshire Burg. 2 Shire Lincolnshire P. M. 12 ; Burg. 8 , Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 City Lincoln Lincolnshire Citizens 2 City Litchfield Staffordshire Citizens 2 City London Middlesex Citizens 4 Lostwithiel v. Lestuthiel Low v. East-Low West-Low Bur. Ludgershall Wiltshire Burg. 2 Bur. Ludlow Shropshire Burg. 2 Bur. Lyme-Regis alias Kings-Lyme Dorsetshire Burg. 2 Bur. Lynn-Regis , alias , Kings-Lynn Norfolk Burg. 2 Bur. Maidston Kent Burg. 2 Bur. Marlborough Wiltshire Burg. 2 Bur. Malden Essex Burg. 2 Bur. Malmesbury Wiltshire Burg. 2 Bur. Malton Yorkshire Burg. 2 Marlow v. Great-Marlow Bur. St. Mawes Cornwall Burg. 2 Medena v. Newport Bur. Melcomb-Regis alias Kings-Melcomb Dorsetshire Burg. 2 W. Shire Merionethshire P. M. 1 ; viz. Knight 1 Bur. St. Michael Cornwall Burg. 2 Shire Middlesex P. M. 8 , Citizens 6 , and Knights 2 Bur. Midhurst Sussex Burg. 2 Bur. Milborn-Port Somerset-shire Burg. 2 Bur. Minehead Somerset-shire Burg. 2 W. Shire Mongomery-shire P. M. 2 ; Burg. 1 , and Knight 1 W Bur. Mongomery Mongomery-shire Burg. 1 Shire Monmouth-shire P. M. 3 ; Burg. 1 , and Knights 2 Bur. Monmouth Monmouth-shire Burg. 1 Bur. Morpeth Northumberland Burg. 2 Bur. Newarke upon Trent Nottinghamsh . Burg. 2 Bur. New-Castle under line Staffordshire Burg. 2 Bur. New-Castle upon Tine Northumber . Burg. 2 Bur. Newport Cornwall Burg. 2 Bur. Newport alias Medena in the Isle of Wight Hantshire Burg. 2 Cinq . P. New-Rumney Kent Barons 2 New-Sarum v. Salisbury Bur. New Shoreham Sussex Burg. 2 Bur. Newton or Newtown in the Isle of Wight Hantshire Burg. 2 Bur. Newtown or Newton Lancashire . Burg. 2 Bur. New Windsor Berkshire Burg. 2 Bur. New Woodstock Oxfordshire Burg. 2 Shire Norfolk P. M. 12 ; Burg. 8 , Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 Bur. North-Allerton Yorkshire Burg. 2 Shire Northamptonshire P. M. 9 ; Burg. 5 , Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 Bur. Northampton Northamptonshire Burg. 2 Shire Northumberland P. M. 8 ; Burg. 6 , and Knights 2 North Yarmouth v. Great Yarmouth City Norwich Norfolk Citizens 2 Shire Nottinghamshire P. M. 8 ; Burg. 6 , and Knights 2 Bur. Nottingham Nottinghamshire Butg . 2 Bur. Oke Hampton Devonshire Burg. 2 Bur. Old-Sarum Wiltshire Burg. 2 Shire Oxon alias Oxford Oxfordshire P. M. 9 ; Burg 5 , Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 City Oxon alias Oxford Oxfordshire University Burg. 2 City Citizens 2 Bur. Ortford Suffolk Burg. 2 W. Shire Pembrokeshire P. M. 3 ; Burg. 2 , and Knight 1 W. Bur. Pembroke Pembrokeshire Burg. 1 Bur. Penryn Cornwall Burg. 2 City Peterborough Northamptonshire Citizens 2 Bur. Peterfield Hantshire Burg. 2 Bur. Plymouth Devonshire Burg. 2 Bur. Plympton Devonshire Burg. 2 Bur. Pomfret alias Pontefract Yorkshire Burg. 2 Bur. Pool Dorsetshire Burg. 2 Port Pigham v. West-Low Bur. Portsmouth Hantshire Burg. 2 Bur. Preston in Amounderness , or Anderness Lancashire Burg. 2 Bur. Queensborough or Quinborough Kent Burg. 2 W. Shire Radnorshire P. M. 2 , Burg. 1 , and Knight 1 W. Bur. Radnor Radnorshire Burg. 1 Bur. Reading Berkshire Burg. 2 Retford v. East-Retford Bur. Richmond Yorkshire Burg. 2 Bur. Rippon Yorkshire Burg. 2 City Rochester Kent Citizens 2 Rumney v. New-Rumney Shire Rutland P. M. 2 , viz. Knights 2 Cinq . P. Rye Sussex Barons 2 Bur. Ryegate Surry Burg. 2 City Salisbury alias New-Sarum Wiltsh . Citizens 2 Salop County v. Shropshire Town v. Shrewsbury Bur. Saltash Cornwall Burg. 2 Cinq . P. Sandwich Kent Barons 2 Sarum New-Sarum v. Salisbury Old-Sarum Bur. Scarborough Yorkshire Burg. 2 Cinque P. Seaford Sussex Barons 2 Bur. Shaftsbury alias Shafton Dorsetshire Burg. 2 Shoreham v. New-Shoreham Bur. Shrewsbury alias Salop , Shropshire Burg. 2 Shire Salop alias Shropshire P. M 12 , Burg. 10 , and Knights 2 Shire Somerset-shire P. M. 18 , Burg. 10 , Citizens 6 , and Knights 2 Southampton the County v. Hampshire Bur. Southampton Hampshire Burg. 2 Bur. Southwarke Surry Burg. 2 Bur. South-Yarmouth in the Isle of Wight Hantshire Burg. 2 Shire Staffordshire P. M. 10 , Burg. 6 , Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 Bur. Stafford Staffordshire Burg. 2 Bur. Stamford Lincolnshire Burg. 2 Bur. Steyning Sussex Burg. 2 Bur. Stockbridge Hantshire Burg. 2 Bur. Sudbury Suffolk Burg. 2 Shire Suffolk P. M. 16 , Burg. 14 , and Knights 2 Shire Surry P. M. 14 , Burg. 12 , and Knights 2 Sh. Sussex P. M. 20 , Burg. 16 , Citiz. 2 , and Knights 2 Bur. Tamworth Staffordshire Burg. 2 Bur. Tavistocke Devonshire Burg. 2 Bur. Taunton Somersetshire Burg. 2 Bur. Tewksbury Gloucestershire Burg. 2 Bur. Thetford Norffolk Burg. 2 Bur. Thirske Yorkshire Burg. 2 Bur. Tiverton Devonshire Burg. 2 Bur. Totnes Devonshire Burg. 2 Bur. Tregony Cornwall Burg. 2 Bur. Truro Cornwall Burg. 2 Vizes v. Devizes Bur. Wallingford Berkshire Burg. 2 Bur. Wareham Dorsetshire Burg. 2 Shire Warwickshire P. M. 6 , Burg. 2 , Citizens 2 and Knights 2 Bur. Warwick Warwickshire Burg. 2 Bur. Webly or Weobly Herefordshire Burg. 2 City Wells Somersetshire Citizens 2 Wendlock v. Great - Wendlock Burg. 2 Bur. Wendover Bucks Burg. 2 Bur. Westbury Wiltshire Burg. 2 Bur. West-Low alias Port-Pigham Cornw. Burg. 2 City Westminster Middlesex Citizens 2 Shire Westmorland P. M. 4 , Burg. 2 , and Knights 2 Bur. Weymouth Dorsetshire Burg. 2 Bur. Whit-Church Hantshire Burg. 2 Wiccomb v. Chipping Wiccomb Bur. Wigan Lancashire Burg. 2 Shire Wiltsh . P. M. 34 , Burg. 30 , Citi. 2 , and Knights 2 Bur. Wilton Wiltshire Burg. 2 Cinq . P Winchelsey Sussex Barons 2 City Winchester Hantshire Citizens 2 Windsor v. New-Windsor Woodstock v. New-Woodstock Bur. Wooton-Basset Wiltshire Burg. 1 Shire Worcestershire P. M. 9 , Burg. 5 , Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 City Worcester Worcestershire Citizens 2 Yarmouth v. North-Yarmouth South-Yarmouth v. Great-Yarmouth Shire Yorkshire P. M. 30 Burg. 26 , Citizens 2 , and Knights 2 City York Yorkshire Citizens 2 THe total number of all the Knights of the Shires , Citizens , Burghesses , and Barons of the Cinque-Ports of England and Wales , which ( when the Kings Majesty Summons a Parliament ) are Respectively chosen by the several Shires &c. as the Representatives of all the Commons of England . Knights of the Shires , 2. for each of the 40. Shires in England reckoning Monmouthshire , as one 80 Citizens for the 25. Cities in England ; for London 4 , for each of the other Cities 2. 52 Burghesses 2. for each of the 2. Universities , and for each of the 171. Burrough-Towns in England , except for Abington , Banbury , Bewdly , Higham-Ferrers , and Monmouth , for each of which only 1. 341 Barons of the Cinque-Ports , viz. Hastings , Dover , Hyth , Rumney ; and the 3. Principal members of the Cinque - Ports , Winchelsey , Rye , and Seaford , of each 2. 16 Knights of the Shires 1. for each of the 12. Shires of Wales 12 Burghesses 1. for each of the 12. Burrough-Towns of Wales 12 The full and Compleat number of all the Members of the House of Commons . 513 A True and Perfect CATALOGUE OF THE Nobility OF SCOTLAND THE Bookseller TO THE READER . THe frequent complaints I have heard , from several learned and Ingenuous persons , of the errors and defects in all the Catalogues , of late Printed , of the Nobility in his Majesties Dominions , created in me a belief , that the publication of exact and correct Catalogues thereof , wou'd be very acceptable to the publick . And this induced me , to attempt it . In order whereunto , I obtained the preceeding Catalogue of the Nobility of England , from the Author of the aforegoing Treatise , a person who by reason of his Office of Garter , is best enabled to publish it most correctly and Authentickly . And in August last ( the Parliament of Scotland then sitting ) by the favour of a freind there . I procured a copy , of the then Lord R●gister his Role of the Nobility of Scotland . But their Christian names not being inserted therein , my Correspondent was so careful and industrious , as to inform himself thereof , either from the several Noblemen themselves , then assembled into Parliament , or from the near Relations , or intimate acquaintances of those absent ; and for those few Christian names of which he could receive no certain information , he hath left blanks ; and having thus procured it , he transmitted it to me . Since when it hath been communicated to several , very intelligent persons in the affairs of that Kingdom , who have very well approved thereof , so that I may with a modest assurance affirm this present Catalogue to be more accurate then most of this nature hitherto publish'd . And yet I will not confidently averr that there are no errors therein , for I am told the Nobility of Scotland are no more careful , then the Noblemen of England , to Register their descents and successions ; the defect of which doth almost occasion an impossibility , with an accurate exactness to publish any Catalogue of this nature . But if any person shall percieve any error or defect therein , or any Nobleman judges himself injured , either by any omission or misrecitall of his name or title , if he shall be pleased to notify it to me , with directions how it ought to be corrected and supplyed , or to inform therein Mr. Robert Meine Post-Master of ( Edinburgh ) I shall take all possible care that in the next edition all the errors may accordingly be amended , and all due right don to every individual Nobleman . To the present Catalogue , is annexed a list of all the Shires and Royal Burroughs in Scotland , with the number of Barons , Commissioners , and Burghesses they do respectively retaine to serve in Parliament . Which I have don in the same manner , as in compliance with the desires of several persons , I have published the preceeding Alphabetical Catalogue of all the Shires , Cities , Burroughs and Cinque-Ports in England and Wales . A true and perfect Catalogue of the Officers of State , Nobility , Lords Spiritual and Temporal of the Kingdom of SCOTLAND , according to their Respective Precedencies . His Majesties High-Commissioner HIS Royal Highness James Duke of Albany Princes of the Blood Royal James Duke of Albany , his Majesties aforementioned High-Commissioner , and Lord High Admiral of Scotland , ( Duke of York in England , and Earl of Ulster in Ireland ) Archbishops ( II ) , and Great Officers ( IV ) , ( Who in respect of their Offices , precede all the Nobility except those of the Blood Royal ) The Lord High Chancellor This Office is now vacant The Arch-Bishop of St. Andrews Lord Primate and Metropolitan of All Scotland Dr. Alexander Burnet Lord Arch-Bishop of St. Andrews The Lord High Treasurer This Office is now executed by Commissioners The Arch-bishop of Glasgow Lord Primate and Metropolitan of Scotland Dr. Arthur Ross Lord Arch-bishop of Glasgow The Lord President of the Privy Council John Duke of Lauderdale The Lord Privy Seal John Marquess of Atholl Dukes ( IV ) William Hamilton Duke of Hamilton * James Scot , Duke of Buccleugh , Lord High Chamberlain of Scotland ( and Duke of Monmouth in England ) * John Maitland Duke of Lauderdale , Lord President of the Privy Council in Scotland ( and Earl of Guilford in England ) * Charles Lenos Duke of Lennox ( and Richmond in England ) Marquesses ( IV ) George Gordon Marquess of Huntley William Douglas Marquess of Douglas James Grahame Marquess of Montrose John Murray Marquess of Atholl ( Lord Privy Seal and Admiral Deputy of Scotland ) Earls ( LXII ) and ( I ) Countess The Lord Secretary of Scotland , in respect of his Office , preceeds all of his Degree , and at present , that Office is executed by an Earl , viz. Alexander Earl of Murray Archibald Campbell Earl of Argyle John Lindsay Earl of Crawford John Hay Earl of Arroll ( Lord High Constable of Scotland by Inheritance ) George Keith Earl Marshal ( Great Marshal of Scotland by Inheritance ) George Sutherland Earl of Sutherland Charles Erskeine Earl of Marre William Grahame Earl of Menteith and Airth John Lesley Earl of Rothes William Douglas Earl of Morton William Erskeine Earl of Buchan John Cunningham Earl of Glencairn Alexander Montgomery Earl of Eglinton John Kenedie Earl of Cassils George Sinclare Earl of Caithness Alexander Stewart Earl of Murray ( Lord Secretary of Scotland ) Robert Maxwel Earl of Nidisdail George Seaton Earl of Winton George Levingston Earl of Linlithgow James Home Earl of Home James Drummond Earl of Perth James Seaton Earl of Dunfermling John Fleming Earl of Wigton Patricke Lyon Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne Hamilton Earl of Abercorne Robert Kerr Earl of Roxburgh Alexander Ereskeine Earl of Kellie Charles Hamilton Earl of Hadington William Stewart Earl of Galloway Kenneth Mac-Kenzie Earl of Seaforth Robert Carr Earl of Lothian William Hay Earl of Kinnoul John Campbell Earl of Loudoun William Crichton Earl of Drumfreis William Douglas Earl of Queensberrie William Alexander Earl of Sterling Robert Bruce Earl of Elgin ( and Aylesbury in England ) Robert Carnegie Earl of South-eske John Stewart Earl of Traquaire Charles Carr Earl of Ancram David Weimes Earl of Weimes William Ramsey Earl of Dalhousie James Ogiluie Earl of Airlie James Ogiluie Earl of Finlator James Dalziel Earl of Carnwath Alexander Levingston Earl of Callander David Leslie Earl of Leven William Johnstoun Earl of Annandail Elizabeth ( present Dutchess of Lauderdale ) Countess of Dysert , Daughter and Coheir of William Murray Earl of Dysert ( first marryed to Sir Lionel Talmach Baronet of England , her eldest Son by whom , now beareth the Title of Lord Hunting-Tower , being heir in succession to the Earldom of Dysert ) George Mauld Earl of Panmeure John Hay Earl of Twedall . David Carnegie Earl of North-Eske Alexander Bruce Earl of Kincarden Colin Lindsay Earl of Balcarres Archibald Douglas Earl of Forfar Charles Middleton Earl of Middleton . Charles Gordon Earl of Aboyne Walter Scot Earl of Tarras James Levingston Earl of Newbrugh William Boyde Earl of Kilmarnocke William Cochraine Earl of Dandonald George Douglas Earl of Dunbarton John Keith Earl of Kintor John Campbell Earl of Braid-Albin and Holland Viscounts ( XIII ) Anthony Carey Viscount Falkland Robert Constable Viscount Dunbar David Murray Viscount Stormont William Gordon Viscount Kenmeare Robert Arbuthnet Viscount Arbuthnet William Crichton Viscount Frendraught Alexander Seaton Viscount Kingston Robert Mackgill Viscount Oxenford Edward Ingram Viscount Irwing James Levingston Viscount Kilsyth Peregrine Osburne Viscount Dumblane Richard Grahame Viscount Preston James Cheney Viscount Newhaven Bishops ( XII ) Dr. John Patterson L. B. of Edinburgh Dr. James Atkins L. B. of Galloway Dr. Andrew Bruce L. B. of Dunkell Dr. Patrick Scougall L. B. of Aberdeen Dr. Colin Falconer L. B. of Murray Dr. Alexander Young L. B. of Ross Dr. George Halliburton L. B. of Brechen Dr. James Ramsey L. B. of Dumblane Dr. Andrew Wood L. B. of Cathness Dr. Archibald Grahame L. B. of the Isles Dr. Hector Mack-clene L. B. of Argyle Dr. Murdo Mack-Kenzie L. B. of Orkney In the same order , as the several Bishopricks are here inserted , the Respective Bishops do constantly precede each other , without regard to the seniority of their Consecrations . Lords ( XLVII ) Alexander Forbes Lord Forbes Alexander Frazer Lord Salton Robert Gray Lord Gray Allan Cathcart Lord Cathcart Henry Saintclare Lord Saintclare James Douglas Lord Mordington Francis Semple Lord Semple John Elphingston Lord Elphingston Charles Oliphant Lord Oliphant Hugh Frazer Lord Louat John Borthwick Lord Borthwick George Ross Lord Ross Walter Sandilands Lord Torphichen John Leslie Lord Lindoris John Elphingston Lord Balmerinoch and Ld. Cowper Henry Erskeine Lord Cardrass Alexander Stewart Lord Blantyre James Cranston Lord Cranston John Balfour Lord Burgleigh Robert Kerr Lord Jedburgh David Drummond Lord Madertie George Meluil Lord Meluil Archibald Napier Lord Napier Henry Fairfax Lord Fairfax of Cameron Henry Richardson Lord Cramond Walter Aston Lord Aston of Forfare Donald Mack-Ray alias Forbes Lord Rae James Forester Lord Forester Alexander Forbes Lord Pitsligo John Mackleland Lord Kirkudbright Charles Frazer Lord Frazer John Hamilton Lord Bargeny George Ogiluie Lord Bamff Patricke Murray Lord Elibank Thomas Galloway Lord Dunkell Alexander Falconer Lord Hackerton John Hamilton Lord Belhaven John Carmichael Lord Carmichael James Sutherland Lord Duffes Andrew Rollo Lord Rollo Robert Colvil Lord Colvil David Ruthuen Lord Ruthuen John Rutherford Lord Rutherford John Bellenden Lord Bellenden David Leslie Lord Newark James Weimes Lord Burnt Island David Nairne Lord Nairne Other Officers of State These have the Title of Lord and precedency of all under the degree of Noblemen and their eldest Sons . Charles Maitland of Hatton Lord Treasurer Depu. Sir George Mack-Kenzie of Torbat Lord Register Sir George Mack-Kenzie of Roshaugh Lord Advocat Richard Maitland of Duddip Lord Justice Clerke A List of the XXXIII Shires in Scotland each of which send : II Barons Commissioners , to serve in Parliament , as the Representatives of the several Respective Shires . Edinburgh Hadington Berwick Roxburgh Selkirk Peeblis Lanerick Drumfreis Wigton Aire Dunbarton Bute Renfrew Sterling Linlithgow Perth Kincarden Aberdeen Innerness Nairne Cromartie Argyle Fife Forfar Bamff the Stewarty of Kirkcudbright Sutherland Cathness Elgin Orkney Clackmannan Ross Kinross The number of the Barons Commissioners for the Shires . LXVI A List of the Royal Burroughs in Scotland ; each of which send only one Burghess to Parliament , as their Representative except Edinburg which sends two Burghesses Commissioners Edinburgh Perth Dundee Aberdeen Sterling Linlithgow St. Andrews Glasgow Aire Hadington Dysert Kirkcaldie Montrose Cowper in Fife East-Anstruther Drumfreis Innerness Burnt Island Inner-Keything Kinghorne Brechen Irwing Iedburgh Kirkcudbright Wigton Dunfermling Sanyhuar New Galloway Fort-Ross Dingwall Dornoch Queens Ferrie Innerara Pittenweem Selkirk Dunbarton Renfrew Dunbar Lanerick Aberbrothock Elgin Peeblis Crail Tayne Culross Bamff Whitherne Forfar Rothesay Nairne Forres Rutherglen North - Berwick Callen Kilrinnie Lauder Kintor Annand Lochmaben Inner-Durie Rosemarkie Cromartie Wick Kirkwall Inner-Beruie The number of Burghesses Commissioners for the Royal Burroughs . LXV * Note That since this present Catalogue was committed to the press Archibald Campbell Earl of Argyle hath been and is attainted of High treason . FINIS . A True and Perfect CATALOGUE OF THE Nobility OF IRELAND . To Mr. Moses Pitt at the Theater in Oxford SIR Whitehall 24. Jan. 1681 / 2. YOur Letter to my Lord Chamberlaine of 22. of this month his Lordship hath sent me to be answered ; but the time you allot for it being the very next post , or else you say the Irish Catalogue will be printed , in which said Catalogue t is questioned whether the present Lord Ossory be a Peer : None can resolve that point better then my Lord Vicount Lansbrough , who is now in Ireland ; and was Secretary to my Lord of Ormond , and concerned for his Grace , and his Sons , at such times when those additional Honours were conferr'd upon them in England and Ireland ; So that unless I be allowed time to receive his Lordships answer , I dare not take upon me to speak to the point in question , so as to justifie the printing thereof . I Am Your most humble Servant RICHARD MULYSE To my best remembrance I have heard my Lord Lansbrough say , that Thomas Butler the late Earl of Ossory had his place in the Parliament of Ireland by the Kings Writ as Earl of Ossory ; ( and to precede all other Earls , but not to be a President for the future ) and in England as Thomas Butler Baron of Moore Park : And that by vertue thereof James Butler the present Earl of Ossory was to succeed to his Father in the same places and Honours . However I will send this night to Ireland for better information . A true and perfect Catalogue of the Great Officers of State , Nobility , Lords Spiritual and Temporal of the Kingdom of Ireland , according to their respective precedencies . The Lord Lievtenant or Cheif Governor James Duke of Ormond . Princes of the Blood-Royal . * His Royal Highness James Earl of Ulster , Duke of York in England and Albany in Scotland . Arch-Bishops ( IV ) and Great Officers ( II ) ( who in respect of their Offices , precede all the Nobility except those of the Blood-Royal ) The Lord Arch-Bishop of Armagh Primate of All Ireland Dr. Michael Boyle Lord Arch-bishop of Armagh The Lord Chancellor Michacl Lord Arch-bishop of Armagh beforementioned The other Arch-bishops The Lord Arch-bishop of Dublin Primate of Ireland Dr. Francis Marsh Lord Arch-bishop of Dublin The Lord Arch-bishop of Cashels Dr. Thomas Price Lord Arch-bishop of Cashels The Lord Arch-bishop of Tuam Dr. Joseph Vesey Lord Arch-bishop of Tuam . The Lord Treasurer Richard Earl of Cork Dukes * James Butler Duke of Ormond Lord Lievtenant of Ireland ( and Earl of Brecknock in England ) Marquesses Randolph Macdonnel Marquess of Autrim Earls ( XXX ) John Fitz-Gerald Earl of Kildare Henry O Bryen Earl of Thomond William Burgh alias Bourke Earl of Clanrickard James Touchet Earl of Castlehaven ( and Baron Audley in England ) Richard Boyle Earl of Cork Lord Treasurer of Ireland by inheritance ( and Earl of Burlington in England ) Thomas Nugent Earl of Westmeath Wentworth Dillon Earl of Roscomon Robert Ridgway Earl of London-Derry William Fielding Earl of Desmond ( and Denbigh in England ) William Brabazon Earl of Meath Richard Barry Earl of Barrimore Richard Vaughan Earl of Carbery ( and Baron Vaughan in England ) Luke Plunket Earl of Fingall Thomas Cromwel Earl of Arglas ( and Baron Cromwel in England ) Arthur Chichester Earl of Donnegall Lambert Earl of Cauan William O Brien Earl of Inchequin Donnugh Macarty Earl of Clancarty Richard Boyle Earl of Orrery Charles Coot Earl of Montrath Henry Moore Earl of Drogheda Charles Talbot Earl of Waterford and Wexford ( and Shrewsbury in England ) Hugh Montgomery Earl of Mount-Alexander Roger Palmer Earl of Castlemain Richard Butler Earl of Arran ( and Baron Butler of Weston in England ) Nicholas Taaf Earl of Carlingford Richard Power Earl of Tyrone Richard Jones Earl of Rannelagh Francis Aungier Earl of Longford Charles-Henry Kirkhoven Earl of Bellomont ( and Baron Wotton in England ) Uiscounts ( XLIX ) Jenico Preston Viscount Gormanston David Roch Viscount Fermoy Richard Butler Viscount Mountgarret William Viliers Viscount Grandison Arthur Annesly Viscount Valentia ( and Earl of Anglesey in England ) Thomas Dillon Viscount Dillon of Costillogallen Nicholas Nettervile Viscount Nettervile of Dowth Arthur Luftus Viscount Luftus of Elye Beaumont Viscount Beaumont of Swords Arthur Magenis Viscount Magenis of Evagh Thomas Needham Viscount Kilmurry David Sarsfeild Viscount Sarsfeild of Kilmallock Edward Conway Viscount Killultagh ( and Earl of Conway in England ) Miles Burgh Viscount Burgh of Mayo George Sanderson Viscount Castleton Patricke Chaworth Viscount Chaworth of Armagh John Scudamore Viscount Scudamore of Slygoe Richard Lumley Viscount Lumley of Waterford ( and Baron Lumley in England ) Thomas Smith Viscount Strangford Philip Wenman Viscount Wenman of Tuam Carol Molineux Viscount Molineux of Marybourgh William Fairfax Viscount Fairfax of Emmely James Butler Viscount Ikerine Thomas Fits-Williams Viscount Fits-Williams of Merion Lewis Odempsi Viscount Glanmaleyra Brien Cockain Viscount Cullen Tracy Viscount Tracy Francis Smith Viscount Carington of Barrefore ( and Baron Carington in England ) Richard Bulkley Viscount Bulkley of Cashells William Brounker Viscount Brounker of Lyons Richard Ogle Viscount Ogle of Catherlough Peircy Butler Viscount Galmoy Henry Barnwell Viscount Kingland Henry Boyle Viscount Shannon John Skeffington Viscount Masarene Hugh Cholmondley Viscount Cholmondley of Kellis Evelyn Fanshaw Viscount Fanshaw of Dromore William Dungan Viscount Claine Daniel O Brien Viscount Clare Lewis Trevor Viscount Dungannon Charles Boyle Viscount Dungaruan ( and beareth the title in England of Lord Clifford ) Maurice Berkley Viscount Fitzharding of Beerhaven William Caulfeild Viscount Charlemount Foliut Wingfeild Viscount Powers-Court Murrogh Boyle Viscount Blesington Arthur Forbes Viscount Granard George Lane Viscount Lanesbrough John Dawney Viscount Downe Richard Persons Viscount Ros Bishops ( XVIII ) Dr. Anthony Doppin L. B. of Meath Dr. William Morton L. B. of Kildare Dr. Hugh Gore L. B. of Waterford Dr. Edward Wolley L. B. of Clonfert Dr. John Hudson L. B. of Elphin Dr. Richard Boyle L. B. of Fernes and Laghlin Dr. Roger Boyle L. B. of Clogher Dr. Essex Digby L. B. of Dromore Dr. Thomas Otway L. B. of Ossory Dr. Ezekiel Hopkins L. B. of Derry Dr. Thomas Hacket L. B. of Down Dr. John Roan L. B. of Killallow Dr. Edward Wettenal L. B. of Corke Dr. Simon Digby L. B. of Limericke Dr. Patricke Sheridan L. B. of Cloyne Dr. Tenison L. B. of Killalla Dr. Smith L. B. of Rapho Dr. William Sheridan L. B. of Kilmore The Bishop of Meath in respect of his Bishoprick is always a Privy Counseller , and he and the Bishop of Kildare have constantly precedency before the rest of the Bishops who take place according to the seniority of their Consecrations . Barons ( XXXII ) Francis Bermingham Lord Bermingham of Athenry Almericus Ceurcy Lord Courcy of Kingsale William Fitz-Morrice Lord of Kerry and Lixnaw Randolph Flemming Lord Slane Thomas St. Laurence Lord of Howth Robert Barnwell Baron of Trimleston Christopher Plunket Lord of Dunsany Peircy Butler Lord of Dunboyne Brien Fitz-Patricke Lord of Upper Ossory Matthew Plunket Lord of Lowth William Bourke Lord Bourke of Castle-Connel Theobald Butler Lord of Cahire Toby Bourke Lord Bourke of Brittas Steward Lord Steward of Castle Steward Foliot Lord Foliot of Balishannon William Maynard Lord Maynard of Wickelow ( and Baron Maynard in England ) Richard George Lord George of Dandalk Simon Digby Lord Digby of Geashil William Fitz-Williams Lord Fitz-Williams of Lifford . Henry Blany Lord Blany of Monaghan Henry Herbert Lord Herbert of Castle-Island ( and Baron Herbert of Chirbury in England ) John Calnert Lord Baltimore William Brereton Lord Brereton of Laghlin Henry Hare Lord Colrane Benedict Sherard Lord Sherard of Letrim Claud Hamilton Lord Hamilton of Strabane Francis Hawly Lord Hawly of Donamore William Allington Lord Allington of Killard John King Lord Kingston Richard Coot Lord Colonel Richard Barry Lord Santry Altham Anesly Lord Altham A List of all the Shires Cityes and Burroughs of Ireland which make returns of Parliament with the number how many each place returns Comitatus Armagh 2 Burrough of Armagh 2 Bur. of Charlemount 2   6 Com. Antrim 2 Bur. of Belfast 2 Bur. of Carickfergus 2 Bur. of Lishbon 2 Bur. of Antrim 2   10 Com. Catherlaugh 2 Bur. Catherlaugh 2 Bur. Old Leighlin 2   6 Com. Corke 2 City of Corke 2 Bur. of Mallow 2 Bur. of Baltimore 2 Bur. of Cloghnekilty 2 Bur. of Bandon Bridge 2 Bur. of Kingsale 2 Bur. of Younghall 2   16 Com. Cavan 2 Bur. of Cavan 2 Bur. of Belturbet 2   6 Com. Clare 2 Bur. of Inish 2   4 Com. Dublin 2 City of Dublin 2 University of Dublin 3 Bur. of New-Castle 2 Bur. of Swords 2   11 Com. Downe 2 Bur. of Downe 2 Bur. of Newtown 2 Bur. of Newry 2 Bur. of Balkillaleagh 2 Bur. of Bangor 2 Bur. of Hilsborough 2   14 Com. Donegal 2 Bur. of Lifford 2 Bur. of Ballyshannon 2 Bur. of Killbeggs 2 Bur. of Donegal 2 Bur. of Sir Johns town 2   12 Villa . de Drogheda 2   2 Com. Gallway 2 Bur. of Gallway 2 Bur. of Athenry 2 Bur. of Tuam 2   8 Com. Fermanagh 2 Bur. of Eniskilling 2   4 Com. Kerry 2 Bur. of Traley 2 Bur. of Dingleicough 2 Bur. of Ardfart 2   8 Com. Kilkenny 2 Civit. Kilkenny 2 Bur. of Cullen 2 Bur. of Thomas Town 2 Bur. of Gowran 2 Bur. of Enisteoge 2 Bur. of Knoctopher 2 Bur. of St. Kennis 2   16 Com. Kildare 2 Bur. of Kildare 2 Bur. of Naas 2 Bur. of Athy 2   8 Com. Regis 2 Bur. of Philips Town 2 Bur. of Banagher 2   6 Com. Letrim 2 Bur. of James Town 2 Bur. of Carricdrumrasck 2   6 Com. Lymerick 2 Civit. Lymerick 2 Bur. of Kilmallock 2 Bur. of Askeaton 2   8 Com. Longford 2 Town of Longford 2 Bur. of Sir Johns Town 2 Bur. of Lanesborough 2   8 Com. Lowth 2 Bur. Carlingford 2 Bur. of Dundalke 2 Bur. of Atherdee 2   8 Com. London-Derry 2 Civit. London-Derry 2 Bur. of Colraine 2 Bur. of Limauddy 2   8 Com. Mayo 2 Bur. of Castlebarr 2   4 Com. Meath 2 Bur. of Trym 2 Bur. of Kells 2 Bur. of Navan 2 Bur. of Athbay 2 Bur. of Duleeke 2 Bur. of Ratooth 2   14 Com. Monaghan 2 Bur. of Monaghan 2   4 Com. Reginae 2 Bur. of Ballinakin 2 Bur. of Maryborough 2   6 Com. Roscomon 2 Bur. of Roscomon 2 Bur. of Tulske 2   6 Com. Sligoe 2 Bur. Sligoe 2   4 Com. Tipperary 2 Bur. of Clonnel 2 Bur. of Fetherd 2 Town of Cashells 2   8 Com. Tyrone 2 Bur. of Donegal 2 Town of Clogher 2 Bur. of Agber 2 Bur. of Strabane 2   10 Com. Waterford 2 Civit. Waterford 2 Bur. of Dungaruan 2 Bur. of Lismore 2 Bur. of Tallow 2   10 Com. Westmeath 2 Bur. of Athlone 2 Bur. of Fower 2 Bur. of Kilbegan 2 Bur. of Molingra 2   10 Com. Wicklow 2 Bur. of Wicklow 2 Bur. of Caresford 2 Bur. of Baltinglass 2   8 Com. Wexford 2 Town of Wexford 2 Town of Ross 2 Bur. of Eniscourthy 2 Bur. of Feathard 2 Bur. of Banow 2 Bur. of Cloghmaine 2 Bur. of Tughman 2 Bur. of Newborough 2   18 The total of Parliament Men returned in the whole Kingdom of Ireland . 275 A CATALOGUE of BOOKS Printed at the Theater in Oxford , since the first Printing there which was in the Year 1672 to 1682 ( With several others ) and sold in London , by Moses Pitt at the Angel against the Great North-door of St. Pauls-Church . 1682. IN FOLIO . BIble for Churches with Chronology and an Index . The English Atlas Vol. 1st . containing the description of the North-Pole , as also Muscovy , Poland , Sweden and Denmork . The second Vol. of the Atlas containing half the Empire of Germany . The fourth Vol. containing the 17 rovinces . And the third Vol. containing the other half of the Empire of Germany . now in the Press . 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 sive Pandectae Canonum S. S. Apostolorum & Conciliorum ab Ecclesia Graeca receptorum , nec non canonicarum S. S. Patrum Epistolarum una cum Sholijs antiquorum singulis annexis , & Scriptis alijs huc spectantibus , quorum plurima e Bibliothecae Bodleianae , aliarumque MSS. codicibus nunc primum edita , reliqua cum iisdem MSS. summa fide & diligentia collata . Totum opus in duos Tomos divisum , Gul. Beveregius Ecclesiae Angl. Presbyter recensuit , Prolegomenis munivit , & Annot. auxit . Catalogus impressorum Librorum Bibliothecae Bodleianae in Acad. Oxon. Historia Universitatis Oxoniensis duobus voluminibus comprehensa . Autore Antonio a Wood. Oxonia illustrata , sive omnium celeberrimae istius Univesitatis Collegiorum , Aularum &c. Scenographia per Dav. Loggan . Plantarum Umbelliferarum distributio nova per tabulas cognationis & affinitatis , ex libro naturae observata & detecta , Aut. Rob. Morrison , Prof. Botanico : Plantarum Historiae Universalis Oxoniensis pars 2d . seu Herbarum distributio nova , per tabulas cognationis & affinitatis ex libro naturae observata & detecta . Autore Rob. Morrison medico & Professore Botanico Regio 1680. The History of Lapland English. Marmora Oxoniensia , ex Arundelianis , Seldenian is , aliisque conflata , &c. cum notis Lydiati & aliorum . per Humph. Prideaux . The Natural History of Oxford-Shire , being an Essay towards the Natural History of England . By R. Plot , L. L. D. Theatri Oxoniensis Encaenia , sive Comitia Philologica , Jul. 6. Anno 1677. Celebrata . Dr. Pocock's Commentary on Micha and Malachi . Iamblichus Chalcidensis de Mysteriis Aegyptiorum Graec. Lat. Interprete T. Gale. 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Coopers Hill , Latine redditum ad Nobilissimum Dominum Gulielmum Dominum Cavendish , Honoratissimi Domini Gulielmi Comitis Devonioe Filium unicum St. Cyprian of the Unity of the Church . IN OCTAVO . THO. Lydiati Canones Chronologici , nec non series summorum Magistratuum & Triumphorum Romanorum . Saul and Samuel at Endor , or the new ways of salvation and Service , which usually tempt Men to Rome , and detain them there , truly represented and refuted by Dan. Brevint D. D. with the vindication of his Missale Rom. the second Impression . A Paraphrase and Annotations upon the Epistles of St. Paul to the Romans , Corinthians and Hebrews . The Ladies Calling . The Government of the Tongue . The Art of contentment . The Lively Oracles given to us , Or the Christians Birth-right and duty in the custody and use of the Holy Scripture : these four by the Author of the whole duty of Man. Zenophon Cyrop . Graec. A short Dissertation concernining Free-Schools , being an Essay towards a History of the Free-Schools of England , by Christopher Wase of St. Mary Hall Oxon. Superiour Beadle of the Civil Law in the same University . Epicteti Enchiridion , Cebetis Tabulae , Theophrasti Caract . Gr. L. cum Notis 1680. Parecbolae , sive excerpta e corpore statutorum Univ. Oxon. &c. M. Fabii Quintiliani Declamationes undeviginti , cum ejusdem ( utnonnullis visum ) dialogo de causis corruptae Eloquentiae , quae omnia notis illustrantur . Nemesii Philosophi & Episcopi● de natura hominis lib. unus , denuo recognitus & manuscriptorum collatione in integrum restitutus , annotationibusque insuper illustratus , Graec. Lat. West Barbary , or a short narrative of the revolutions of the Kingdom of Fez and Morocco , with an account of the present customs , sacred , civil , and domestic , by L. Addison . Homeri ilias , cum Scholiis Didymi Gr. Theocritus cum Scholiis Graecis . Aratus cum Scholiis Gr. 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Francisci Redi Experimenta circa res diversas naturales , speciatim illas quae ex Indiis adferuntur , 1675. Aulus Gellius . Besterfeldus Redivivus . Herls Wisdoms Tripos . Wilkins Beauty of Providence . Gramatica Rationis . Bishop Andrews Devotions Gr. Lat. Athenagorae Apologia pro Christianis & de Resurréctione Mortuorum Gr. Lat. Lactantius de Mortibus persecutorum & passionibus S. perpetuae & Felicitatis . Several other antient books and MS. preparing for the press . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A36790-e1160 * * I was assured by Mr. William Burton of Lindley in Leicestershire that Mr. Erdswike did to him acknowledge , he was the Author of that Discourse , though he gave leave to Mr. Wyrley ( who had been bred up under him ) to publish it in his own name . This Mr. Erdswike from pulick Records and antient Evidences compiled a brief , but elaborate work , of the Antiquities of Staffordshire , as yet not made publick by the press , which is now in the hands of an eminent and learned Gentleman of that County , Walter Chetwind Esq † † See more of him in the Institution of the Garter of El. Ashmole Esq. * * This was done in a Poem then published in print by the say'd Mr. Wyrley an . 1592. of these two persons , but writ by Mr. Erdswike . * * This Jaques d'Arvell was a wealthy Citizen of Gant , and had great interest and authority in Flanders under K. Edw. 3. in opposition to the French , as the Hist , of that time do amply shew . * * Viz in the Poem mentioned in the margent of pag. 1. † † Such as lie Cross-legg'd are those who were in the wars of the Holy Land , or vowed to go and were prevented by death . In the Collegiate Church of Houden in Yorkshire lyeth a fair cross-leg'd figure of a man in armour of male ; on whose sheild is the Arms of Metham of Metham a worshipful family in those parts ; as also another of his wife lying close by him , with her leggs also a cross ; by which it may seem that she accompanied him in one of these expeditions . * * This must be understood of Subjects ; for K. Edward the Confessor did use a Seale . * * Taken out of his papers in the Cottonian library . * * Henr. Spelmanni Aspilagia Impr. Lond. 1654 pag. 140. * * The Theatre of Honour &c. by Andrew Favine a French man , translated into English , printed at London an . 1623. lib. 1. cap. 1. pag. 11. a a Any kind of partitions . b b Flanching bearing upon Flanches . c c Partitions in base of any sort . d d Placing something over all . e e A forme of Dancetty . f f Turned and counterchanged . g g All sorts of Ermins and vairy . h h Lozenges rarouranal pierced . i i With the Bend. k k double-cotized . l l embatelled m m chardg'd with six leaves of any sort . 
A67873	----	Honor rediviuus [sic] or An analysis of honor and armory. by Matt: Carter Esq. Honor redivivus. Carter, Matthew, fl. 1660. 1660 Approx. 339 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 145 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2009-03 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A67873 Wing C659 ESTC R209970 99868814 99868814 121170 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A67873) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 121170) Images scanned from microfilm: (Thomason Tracts ; 239:E1922[1]) Honor rediviuus [sic] or An analysis of honor and armory. by Matt: Carter Esq. Honor redivivus. Carter, Matthew, fl. 1660. Gaywood, Richard, fl. 1650-1680, engraver. [10], 256, 247-251, [1] p., [8] leaves of plates : coats of arms (woodcuts) printed for Henry Herringman 1660 and are to be sould by Henry Herringman at the Ancker on the lowest side of the New-Exchange, London : [1660] The title page is engraved and signed "R. Gaywood fecit"; the plate is an altered version of the one first used in Wing C658. With two handwritten pages at end. Annotation on Thomason copy: "June". Reproduction of the original in the British Library. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. 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Nobility -- Great Britain -- Early works to 1800. 2000-00 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2002-01 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2002-03 TCP Staff (Michigan) Sampled and proofread 2002-03 Olivia Bottum Text and markup reviewed and edited 2002-04 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion Honor rediviuus or An analysis of Hono and Armory by MATT : CARTER Esq London printed for Henry Herringman 1660 And Are to be Sould by Henry Herringman at the Ancker on the lowest side of the New-Exchange ANDREW COLTEE DUCAREL L.L.D. Doctor 's Commons . A POSSE AD ESSE . TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE . WILLIAML d. Marquesse AND Earl of HERTFORD , Baron SEYMOUR AND BEAUCHAMP . MY LORD . THat I have preferred so slender a Volume to Your Honorable Patronage , is no more than the Subject of it ( which is Honor ) erects ; as Your Lordship is known of the first and greatest of those that challenge a concernment therein ; yet not more eminent by that of Your blood , then of the inward Noblenesse of Your Vertues , whereof the World hath received unmatchable testimonies . These reasons as they oblige me to this presentment ; so I cannot but hope will also plead pardon for the trouble it brings a long with it ; and ( that once obtained ) I am assured of the preservation of this imperfect Essay , under the powerfull Protection of your Lordships name : Of the infinite Honorers whereof , none is more ambitious to be known such , than My LORD , Your Honours most humbly devoted Matt. Carter . TO THE READER . READER , THe unhappy Causes of the present neglect of this most noble knowledge , are of so high nature , as will not endure to be named : the ill consequents ( in the imminent degenerateness of this Age ) so manifest , that they need not . In this declining condition of Honour , nothing is more requisite then the means of its preservation ; amongst which this being one , and that not inconsiderable , gave me occasion of busying my self in this design . Such bookes as have beene already publisht , by persons eminent in this kinde , are of large bulke , and some of them too tedious to the most ingenious Student . The more they comprehend , the less apt for memory : especially when enlarged with tedious impertinencies , and doubtlesse more difficult for the apprehension of every Reader ; to which , Method that is most discernable in brevity is the most excellent help . That which I have herein followed , is to treat first of the degrees of Honour , and then of Armory ; and that although concisely , yet I hope so clearly , and fully , that any person of ordinary capacity may hereby be able to blazon a Coat of the greatest difficulty ; the only care being in observing the termes given to things born , and the manner of posture , and position . Some errors have escaped both the Press , and theGraver , which the Reader may at his leisure rectifie by the Errata at the end ; so let him peruse seriously , and censure modestly ; and then I shal wish him Farewell . Of HONOR in Generall , and of its Particular Divisions . THe Heraulds of former ages have , many of them , not onely divided the nobler sort of men into severall degrees , but distinguished likewise the inferiour rank into four forms : But ( as in some other things ) in that also I shall forbear to follow their method , as not altogether so pertinent to the intentions of this compilement . It is but an easie caution in me , when I know not how few I shall 〈◊〉 by my best demerits , not to stumble into the hazard of disgusting many , by a rash enterprise in a weak endeavour ; considering especially the present temper of the world . The great and wise Disposer of all Entities hath contriv'd every thing into such a Method , as in every particle of the Creation is discover'd a most excellent harmony , in which that of the degrees and honorary distinctions is as admirable as any ; and this is the intended scope of this 〈◊〉 . Some he 〈◊〉 created to honor , and some to dishonor ; 〈◊〉 a difference and variety in all things , that by a rule of contraries they might the better display themselves . Some men he hath richly adorn'd with Excellency , and elevated them with the sublimary glories of Honor , Nobility , and Greatness ; and others again ( in the same light they shine ) hath he obscured with contraries of Meanness , Ignobility , and Indigency . Of the latter I shall onely say , that for them to Spurn at the more honorable , because themselves are debased to an inferiority , is to kick dirt in the face of that infinitely just and wise God of our Creation . The first being the intended concernment , I forbear any farther discourse of the latter . Nobility ( saith Sir John Fern ) is thus defined , Vir Nobilis idem est , quod notus ac per omnium or a vulgatus ; A Gentleman or Nobleman is he which is known , and through the Heroical vertues of his life talked of in every man's mouth . In short , amongst all men it is defined , A certain eminence of some above the rest . This is by the same Author distinguished into three Species , Nobility supernaturall , Nobility naturall , and Nobility civill or politicall . Supernaturall , as in the heavenly Hierarchies , or sacred Principalities : And that there are orders and degrees amongst them , we must believe , or renounce our Christianity ; but I leave the further discovery thereof ( as too sublime ) to more mature and deliberate contemplations . The second is Nobilitas physica , or naturall Nobility ; consisting in the great variety of naturall creatures , obvious to our human senses . As for example , Among the Planets , the Sun is the most noble ; among the Elements , Fire ; among the Plants , the Cedar ; among Flowers , the Rose ; of Metalls , Gold ; of Jems , the Diamond ; of Fish , the Dolphin ; of Birds , the Eagle ; of Beasts , the Lion ; and amongst Men , the King. The last is Nobility civill or politicall , which onely relates to Mankind ; and though some have distinguished the generality of a Common-wealth into two divisions onely , the Noble and Ignoble , the Gentry and Commonalty ; yet either part are again subdivided , according to the policy of civill Government , as well as the providence of divine Ordination . When first this distinction came amongst us , is by some thought uncertain ; but for my part , not . For doubtlesse it hath been continued from the first encrease of Mankind in the world ; for if there were Kings and Governors , certainly other distinctions , ( vertue being still admired , and honored , and some signall put upon it ) ; and , Dignitas & Nobilitas idem sunt , dignity or preferment to power is that which makes a man noble . And that there were Kings long before the Floud , as Mr. Selden ( that excellent Master of Antiquity ) is of opinion , is evident by those words he inserts , which signifie , that Adam , after the propagation of Mankind , was esteemed nor onely the Father , but Governor , in a kind of Royall or Monarchicall power , during his life ; and Seth his son succeeded him in the like . The Jews called such as were in the state of Nobiles among them , Ben Ish , or Filii viri , or the sons of great men ; And the sons of men of common rank , they tearmed , Sons of men , by filiihominis . And the Scripture in many places distinguishes men thus , as in that of the Psalm : as well the sons of great men , as of men of common rank , both rich and poor together . And this distinction of men hath descended to us with so much severity , that our Saviour himself gave example in his Practise and Rule , in the charge he left us for it , in these words , Speak not evill of Dignities , and many other the like . And the Civill Law hath formerly been so severe in the preserving this distinction , that Gentle or Noble were prohibited the marrying . with the Ungentle or Ignoble ; as the Ignoble were debarred from any honour or dignity , to hinder the evill of introducing mongrell and mechanick dispositions in the Common-wealth , and consequently such impostumated humors as is commonly the Off-spring thereof , even among the greatest Nobility . The Law commanded , that in case a Guardian , being a Person of honor , having the tuition of a Child under age , and should marry him to the daughter of an ignoble person , it was an injury done to the whole Family , & a penalty should be inflicted upon the Guardian ; the reason , for though the Husband cannot be ennobled by the Wife , yet the Issue of that Male is debased and a Mongrel ; and primogenitus est totius geniturae quasi splendor & gloria ; and the glory of children are their parents . Civill Nobility is an excellency of dignity , and fame , placed in any Nation , People , or Blood , through the virtues there shewed forth , to the profit of that Common-wealth , as Sir John Fern defines it . This he divides into three so t s : of N tions , Cities , and Families . These last are by the Greeks termed 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , in Latin Nobiles , Ingenui , and Generosi , in French Nobles , in the Empire 〈◊〉 , among the Spaniards Hiidalgo , and Gentilhome , or Gentilhombre ; and in the old Saxon , Ardel. Aristotle maketh four kinds of civill Nobility , viz. Divitiarum , Generis , Virtutis , & Disciplinae . Cicero attributes the Crovvn of Generosity to the virtuous , and therefore is understood to allow of no other Nobility ; and Diogenes was so cynicall , as to term nobleness of blood a vail of lewdness , a cloak of sloth , and a vizard of cowardice : And what would he have said had he liv'd in our age ? But to lay by these and many other divisions , the Philosophy of latter times have refined Civill Nobility into a triple division . The first by Blood , the second by Merit , the third by Blood and Merit ; which last , without doubt , must receive the estimation of the most honorable . See Sir Johu Fern and Mr. Segar in his Honor Military and Civill . And also by place in the Common-wealth . And Bartholus , In the Court : his words are , Omnes 〈◊〉 Principi 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , & ideo Nobiles ; cùm 〈◊〉 & nobilitas idem sunt . Nobility of Blood , saith Sir John Fern , is a Nobility drawn from the first House , and continued through the virtues of those succeeding ; which the Laws and Customs of Nations have permitted the progeny and kindred to challenge as their Inheritance , though for no excellency in themselves that enjoy it . And this is the Nobility which Boetius takes notice of , when he saith , Nobilitas est quaedam laus proveniens de 〈◊〉 parentum . Now as Nobility by Blood and Merit is justly esteemed the most honorable , so certainly this the least ; the glory they shine in , being but the reflection of their Ancestors , and not their own proper rayes . Neither are dignities and discents of blood enough to ennoble us , for whatsoever is not within us cannot justly be called ours , but rather the graces and goods of fortune . Genus & proavos , & quae non fecimus ipsi , Vix 〈◊〉 nostra vaco . And certainly the Honor atchieved by an Ancestor , livs in his Family as his , and to the memory of his vertues , and example of theirs ; which ought doubly to oblige them to care , first , in keeping that tenderly , which their Ancestors purchased so difficulty ; and to shew themselves the true heirs of such noble spirits , in their due imitations of those renowned vertues . Therefore it is but vain for a man to boast , that he can derive the foundation of his honor from the renowned catalogue of worthy Ancestors , and himself degenerate from their heroicall virtues ; for at the best they blaze but another's honor , and their own shame ; and may quickly be answered as Hermodius was by Iphierates , ( who upbraided him with the stain of so base a parent ) My House taketh beginning in me , but thine taketh end in thy self . And our Nation hath produced too many that deserve the saying of Lycurgus , whose Soldiers bragged much of the Nobility of Hercules being derived to them ; he told them , Hercules's nobility would avail them nothing , except they did those things whereby Hercules became Noble . The second is , Nobleness of proper Virtue , atchieved by Merit ; which is certainly to be esteemed above the other : for a Country's safety dependeth upon 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , counsell , and courage of the virtuous ; when the 〈◊〉 boastings of an authentick Stock , where vertues fail , do add nothing to the relief of a Common-wealth in time of need . The Romans attired their Knights with a Ring for faithfulness , a Buckle for stedfastness , and a Bracelet for industry , as signes of vertue ; not of sloth , the appropriated priviledge of succeeding Nobility . And in all Nobility , Author & 〈◊〉 à quo primum 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in signia profecta sunt , & homo novus fuit : The first atchiever in any stock whatever , was a new man ennobled for some demerit ; Sir John Fern. And all men will judge him that was the originall of a family more honorable , than him that succeeded him two or three descents , not adding to that honour by any merit of his own . Now these two qualities meeting in one man , is it that maketh the perfect Gentleman ; and such a man ought to be preferred before all others in the receiving of Dignity , Office , or Rule , in the Common-wealth . Wherefore by the Laws of Arms antiently , these seven circumstances were regarded in the chioce of a Captain or Leader ; his Age , his Virtues , his Faith or Allegiance , his Knowledge in Martiall Discipline , his Authority , his good Fortune ; and lastly , his Blood and Gentry . And antiently none were admitted into the Inns of Court , but who were Gentlemen of Blood , be their Merits what ever ; as the Foundations of some of 〈◊〉 do yet shew . Therefore it is the best Patrimony a Father can leave his Son , to bequeathe him the glory of his merits , with the state of Gentility ; And the best honor the Son can do to the deceased Parent , is , to continue his name in that estate which his Ancestors left him , and by imitating the virtues that obtained it , to preserve it without a stain . Which consideration hath been the occasion to stir up many generous spirits to a noble contention , and commendable emulation , to exalt the worthiness of their Familie's fame . What those virtues are that must thus ennoble men , Sir John 〈◊〉 hath taken too much care , I think , in demonstrating ; for whose sake I shall take as little : First , he tells you of all the Cardinall virtues , and then what they are ; which I am so confident as to believe , every man understands , that knows any thing : But I shall take up this conclusion , as that from them , as a true Fountain , these Rivers must flow ; for there is such a connexion and chain of affinity in these virtues , that none may be severed from the rest , and that man may be truly said to be virtuous ; though , Like as the body is conserved by the nourishment of the four Elements or Complexions , so that the extinguishment of any one of them is destruction to the body ; yet the constitution of that body is generally tearmed from the predominancy of some one of them that is most erninent in him : So , the vertues of a man may be esteemed from the paticular discovery of someone more eminent . But if we will make any difference in the merits of Atchievment , it may be best done in short , by taking notice onely of Prudence and Fortitude , from whence that generall opinion of the world , that Merit was onely by the Pike or Pen , is derived . And though it has ever been a dispute , to which of these the precedency should be allowed ; yet , I think , a little reason will decide it , For though there hath been so much of Honor allowed in all Ages to Prudence , yet we ever found the first succession of Honor was from the atchievments of Fortitude , as in the example of the Roman Statues ; and at this day the publick example of the Shield , whereon all , both Civill and Military , do illustrate their atchievments , which should be enough to end that controversie ; though some have been very violent in a dispute to prefer the Doctor to be before the Knight . To obtain estate of Gentility by learning , and discovering the secrets of Heaven , is very honorable certainly ; but to atchieve it by service in his Soveraign's Wars , the defence of the Church , King , and Country , is of all most excellent and worthy . In which case , War is permitted by the Law of God , taught us by the Law of Nature , and commanded by the Laws of all Nations . Sir William Segar , when he speaketh of the Nobility allowed to Prudence , disposeth it in the second Place : And Sir John Fern , speaking of learning , gives it the same ; onely of all under that genus , when the degree of the Doctor of Divinity differenceth ; he saith , It excelleth all other degrees in Learning in four respects ; first , the excellency of the subject it treateth of ; secondly , for the dignity of the matter , treating of things beyond reason of Philosophy , or the reach of Human Wisdom : thirdly , the excellency of the end whereunto it is ordained : lastly , the worthinesse of the Author's authority , receiving it not from mortall men , as all other Sciences , but from the Spirit of God. Now a man may be ennobled by Leters Patent from his Prince , though he have not the Superior Titles added ; as by the example of Jo. de King ston , who was by Patent from K. Richard the second receiv'd into the state of a Gentleman , as you may see at large in Mr. Selden's Titles of Honor. As also in another example of Hen. 6. 〈◊〉 by the word Nobilitamus , creates Bernard Angeuin , a Burdelois , a Gentleman : and a latter of K. James to a Hollander . Which examples makes him divide Honor into Nativa and Dativa . There were Codicilli 〈◊〉 in the Empire , by which men were entitled to the Honors of Nobles . And there have been Edicts made in France for the like ennobling of Centry , the form whereof Mr. Selden's Book sets forth at large . There is a whole Title , De honorariis condicilliis in Theodosius his Code , and some Laws concerning them , as antient as Constantine . There is another kind of Nobility , and that is called Nobilitas adoptiva , a Gentility arising from adoption ; when a Gentleman of Blood , and Coat-armour , for some speciall affection ( though neither allyed to his Blood , or a Gentleman otherways ) adopteth a stranger to be his son , and constituteth him to succeed , as well in his Estate of Gentry , as to his Name and Possessions . An example of the like , also of great Antiquity , in Salustius Tiberius , à 〈◊〉 his formulari , where the greatest part of a Gentle Family assembling , do by consent adopt a stranger that hath well deserved of them to be of their Family , as if he were descended of a Male from among them , creating him a Gentleman , to be reputed De domo & agnatione ipsorum ; and granted him also their Arms , and limited the whole honour to him , and the Heirs of his body . But this creation cannot make him a Gentleman by birth , as it is in Spain a proverb , The King cannot make an Hidal go : he may be Nobilis , but not Generosus ; which Mr. Selden defines to be qui , bono genere ortus , non degenerat , which the Dutch have the word 〈◊〉 for , which is well-born in English. But this word Generosus hath been in use amongst us but since the time of Hen. 8. since when it hath bin constantly used for a Gentleman of what sort soever , if he had no title above it : the word Gentleman being before generally used in the like nature in Writs , Pleadings , and the like , though they were Latine . This word Gentleman , did first rise from the word Gens or Gentes , which the Christians in the Primitive times used for all such as were neither Jews nor Christians ; which our English Translators turn Gentiles ; as the French , Payens for Pagans ; the Dutch , Heyden , or Heydenen , for Heathen . So afterward , the same word and Gentiles was used in the Empire , for all such as were not Cives Romani , or Provincials . But it is more reasonably resolved , that the word Gentleman is derived from this origination . That the Northern Nations , framing their words out of Latin to make up their Provincial or Roman Tongues , so esteemed the word Gentilis , by which they found themselves styled in the Latine , that they now made it in those Tongues a distinction or note of Honor , for such of them as were of more eminent quality ; ambitious , it seems , to be honored with that very name , with which the Romans had before in scorn expressed them . By which means Gentil-hommes became generally a word amongst the Provincialls for Nobiles . So that from the word Gentil homme , 〈◊〉 Gentilhombre , ( which we received from the French , for till the Normans we had it not ) we made out this word Gentleman , which was before called AEdel . This Nobilis or Gentleman ( as before we find ) is a generall denomination for all that come under the notions of Honor , ( for indeed it is our vulgar genus , for those also that are distinguished by higher Titles ) but to those that are not more properly , the Species whereof I shall a little further look into . Of the Doctor of Divinity , I spake before ; the next is the Doctor of Law , which hath also held a dispute of precedency with the Knight , but to lesse purpose than the other ; the same reason that held in the major , must of necessity in the minor . Besides , admit the great benefit and necessity of Laws in a Common-weal for the preserving of peace ; yet we must acknowledge , that the peace which produced those Laws was the effect of the Sword ; and neither is Peace able to protect those Daws , nor those Laws Peace , without the assistance of Military Authority . And so necessary is the profession of Arms , that no Common-wealth , no City , no publick Society , can subsist without it . Aristotle , when he speaketh of the constitution of a well-govern'd City , in the first place calleth Soldiers the true Citizens ; And at the same time faith , Ea Respublica tyrannidem 〈◊〉 , quae fortes & saptentes minimè honorat . Plato , in the institution of his Common-wealth , appoints one sort of men ( far more excellent then the rest ) whose office should be the taking up of Arms for the defence of the other Citizens , to which he allowed many privileges ; and that they should be more honorable than any other state of people . Sir John Fern determines thus , In artibus militaribus , vel in actu indiffer enti , data paritate Militum & Doctorum , &c. semper praefertur 〈◊〉 Miles Doctori , & sic de singulis , de gradu in gradum . And the same Author understands this rule to extend also to the Serjeant at Law , as to the Doctor at Law. Neither can I any way derogate in other respects from the honor due to a Doctor at Law ; for they are to be preferred in the second place below a Knight , that is , next the Doctor of Divinity , out of the respect due to the Law it self ; And what respect hath always bin given to it , you may see by these of the Fathers , Quid enim sunt regna , nisi latrocinia , remotâ 〈◊〉 quae est legum effectus ? And again , Justitia regentis est utilior , 〈◊〉 fertilitas 〈◊〉 , solatium pauperum , haereditas filiorum , & sibimetipsi spes futurae beatitudinis . This Doctor , as well as the Doctor of Divinity , hath for his honor many Ceremonies and Tokens of Honor appropriated to his Creation or Commencement . As first , a Book , in token of his Learning . Secondly , a Habit , which is called Biretrum , 〈◊〉 bis rectum . Thirdly , a Ring , to shew how he is espoused to Philosophy and Science . Fourthly , in token he is a Doctor he must sit in a Chair , which hath been thus described : It ought to be four-square ; in the forepart should be painted a Young-man of great strength , noting labor and love , to work and to finish ; on the hinder part two Virgins , called Care and Vigilancy ; on the right side a Young-man well girded , carrying in his arms things of small value , to signifie the mean estate of wealth ; and on the left , a man running away , to shew that the study of Science requires a volunary exile from all relations . The fifth Ensigne is a Girdle about his loyns , with these words , Take this Girdle , and gird thy loyns with a bond of Faith , so that thy body may be adorned with all vertues , that thou mayst seem before God and man perfect in thy degree . Lastly , a Kiss , with these words , Take the Kiss of Peace , in token thou shalt ever seek to preserve the bonds of Concord in thy Faculty . The next place amongst these honors is due to the Doctor of Physick , which being the very perfection of naturall Philosophy ; and from the necessity of it in a Common-wealth , is allowed the name of Liberall , and not Mechanicall Science . To this Profession also is admitted the bearing of Arms ; but in that case the Herauld ought always to be carefull , to have regard in the designment to the 〈◊〉 . Which bearing of Arms is the 〈◊〉 badge of all Honor , as in its due place shall be set forth . Neither are the rest of the Liberall Sciences debarred from the like priviledges , according to the excellency of the Professors . To which is adjoyned Poetry , which among Antients hath been honored with the style of Sacred ; and Poets called Prophets by the title of Vates . St. Austine give them this character , Poetae Theologi dicti fuerunt , cùm de diis immortalibus multa scriberent , quales Orpheus , Musaeus , & Linus . How they have been honoured of Princes is evident in every Chronologie ; amongst which , that of Alexander is most 〈◊〉 : With Homer will I sleep , with Honor will I wake ; Homer is a fit companion for Alexander . The Ensigne usually given to a Poet Laureat is the Swan , signifying pureness of style , the Bird of Venus , and consecrated to the Muses ; and sometimes a Pegasus , as to Michael Drayton : See his tombe in Westminster . To this I must joyn , and indeed should give the precedency to that sister-Art of Painting , than which none hath received more honour in the World , though too Mechanically slighted amongst us ; which hath been the reason we have not arrived to that excellency that some other Kingdoms have done in it : For , 〈◊〉 is the true spurre to perfection . This hath been for its sublimity reckoned with much honour among the liberall Sciences , by many Princes ; nay , Pliny calls it plainly , a liberall art , whose reasons not his own onely , but modern times have approved : & much reason there is to give it that honour , since its performance is by the exact engagement of Geometry , Arithmetick , Perspective , and indeed all points and species of natural Philosophy ; besides the remembrance of the great estimation it was in amongst the Grecians , whose Kings ( many of them ) were proud in professing the Art. And then the law amongst the Romans , that no man should undertake it but such as were Gentlemen ; because the brain of a clown must be too durty , and muddy to arrive at excellency in it . They were also to be of estate ; that the labouring for a lively-hood , might not take them off from industrious study for perfection . Other examples , that Princes have given of their delight in it , is declared in the Ingenuity of Francis and Emanuel , Kings of France ; and many Germane Princes since . Under which genus I wish the Ingenuity of our Nations , like as others , would also comprize that species of Graving , an art too noble to be so much slighted as it is amongst ingenuous men . History also being esteemed a witnesse of time , a light of truth , a mistris of life , and a messenger of antiquity , deserves from its Country the gratefull return and reward of its merits . In generall ; if any person be advanced by lawfull commission of his Prince to any office , dignity , or publique administration , be it either ecclesiasticall , military , or civill ; so that the said Office comprehends in it , dignitatem , vel dignitatis titulum , he ought to be matriculated into the rank of Gentility . In the State Ecclesiasticall are , Patriarchs , Primates , Archbishops , and Bishops ; all which by custom of the Realme , and Royall grants of 〈◊〉 Princes , are invested Barons , and admitted to the high Court of Parliament : But more of that in its due place . Also are admitted to the state of Gentility , Vicars Generals , Guardians of Spiritualties ; Deans of Cathedralls , Arch-Deacons ( called 〈◊〉 Episcopi , ) Chancellours , Treasurers , and Chauntors in every Episcopall Sea , so Sir John Ferne ; as also Doctors , Provosts , Deans , and Governours of all Collegiate Assemblies . In the Military or Marshall Government , the high Constable , Lievtenant-General , Marshall , Admiral , Major General , Quartermaster-General , Treasurer of the Army , Guardians of Frontiers , the Master of the Horsemen , or grand Essquire , the Master of Artillery , the Colonel , Serjeant-Major , Captain and Provost ; and indeed all that receive Commission from their Prince . In the Civill or Politicall estate ; the Chancellour , President , Treasurer , Judges , Justices , Chief-officers of the Pallace-Royall , Secretaries of State , Mayors , Provosts , and Baylifs of Incorporate Cities and Towns. And since from the seat of Royalty and Majesty , all honours do flow , it is no reason this Fountain should by any restriction be limited , neither is it ; for as before in the discourse of Gentility , by Patent it is signified , so there is another sort of Gentility , made by the Prince , which as it is by Patent , ought to have taken place there ; but being by purchase only , and not of merit , is esteemed of all the most inferior , and therefore to be set in the lowest degree . The King , saith Sir John Ferne , may also create a Gentleman , and give him Coat-Armour to bear , although he be unworthy of the same , but , saith he again , est haec quaedam fucata Nobilitas & non ver a nec essentialis , it is but a counterfeit Nobility , so that this Gentility brings the purchaser little more then the shadow of Honour , to shroud him from the name of Plebeian , and these Gentlemen by the strictnesse of the Laws of Honour , are excluded from the priviledges of Gentility . Then , saith Sir Wil. Segar , a simple subject being 〈◊〉 a Gentleman , by the Prince's grant , and does not exercise the qualities beseeming that dignity , ought to be deprived of his Title . This consideration made Sigismond the Emperour , answer one soliciting for such honour ; I can , said he , make thee rich , or exempted with priviledges ; But , without virtue or noble desert , it lieth not in Caesar's power to make a Gentleman . And the retort of a Gentleman to a Knight , ( which my self knew ) was not amisse , being to the same purpose , who said , It was more honour to be a Gentleman and no Knight , then to be a Knight and no Centleman , the Knight being then a Knight meerly by purchase , without any desert at all in him : too many whereof are 〈◊〉 in our Nation . Privileges due to Gentility . NOw since others , as Sir Jo. Fern , and Sir Wil. Segar , have been so punctuall in discoursing the priviledges due to Gentility , I cannot but touch upon it a little , before I passe to the next degree of Noblenesse , which is the Esquire . The priviledges , as they have laid them down , are these . 1. Pro honore sustinendo , if a Churl , alias Pesant do detract from the Honour of a Gentleman , he hath a remedy in law , actione injuriarum ; but if by one Gentleman to another , anciently , combate was allowed . 2. In crimes of equall constitution , a 〈◊〉 shall be punished with more favour then a common person ; provided the 〈◊〉 be not Heresie , Treason , or excessive Contumacy . 3. The many observances and ceremonious respects , that a Gentleman is , and ought to be Honoured with by the ungentle . 4. In giving evidence , a Gentlemans attestestation is to precede a Clown's . 5. In election of Magistrates , and Officers by vote ; the suffrage of a Gentleman shall take place of an ignoble person . 6. A Gentleman ought to be excused from base services , impositions , and duties , both reall and personall . 7. A Gentleman condemned to death , ought not to be hanged but beheaded , and his examination taken without torture . 8. To take down the Coat-Armor of any Gentleman , deface his monument , or offer violence to 〈◊〉 Ensigne of the deceased Noble , is as to lay buffits on the face of him alive ; and punishment is due accordingly . 9. The Clown may not challenge a Gentleman to Combat , quia conditione impares . Many others there are , but it would be too tedious to insert them , I referr the Reader to Sir John Ferne , his Glory of Generosity . For the protection and defence also of this civill dignity , they have discover'd three Lawes provided : the first , Jus Agnitionis , the right , or Lawes of Discent for the kindred of the Father's side : the second , Jus Stirpis ; for the whole Family : the third , Jus Gentilitatis , a Law for the descents in Noble Families . Which Tully esteemed the most excllent , of which Law a Gentleman of blood and Coat-Armor perfect possessing virtue was only priviledged . To the making of which Gentleman perfect , in his blood , was required , a lineall descent on the part of his Fathers side , from Atavus , Abavus , Proavus , Avus , and Pater ; and as much on his Mothers line : then is he not only a Gentleman of blood perfect , but of ancestors too . The obscurity and neglect of which Laws hath introduced other sorts of Gentlemen amongst us , which are men taking the style of Gentleman being neither of blood nor Coat-Armor ; which style only serves to hurry them to an unruly pride , when indeed it is but rude and false Honour , and is by Sir John Ferne termed apocryphate , and debarred of all priviledges of Gentility . These Gentlemen , nomine , non re , he calls such of the Students of the Law , Grooms of the Soveraign Palace , sons of Churls made Priests or Cannons , &c. and such as have received degrees in the Schools , or born office in the City ; so that by that they are styled by the title of Master , yet have no right to Coat-Armor . As to the Student of the Law , Sir John Fern allowes him the best assurance of his Title of Gentleman , of all these irregular and untriall Gentlemen , ( as he terms them ; ) for so much as in some Acts of Parliament he is named with the Title of Gentleman , yet he saith , that he is also debarred from all honor and priviledge of the Law of Armes . But those Students were antiently by customs of the Inns of Court , ( as I shewed before ) to be weeded out of the Societies , if by chance any were crept in ; and none to be admitted but Gentlemen of Coat-Armour ; by which excellent Rule the younger sonns of Gentlemen would have the priviledges and benefit of that study , to maintain and support them , as it is in the Empire of Russia , and many other Nations ; when as now every Clown , that can but pick up so much money at the plough tayle , as shall fit his son up for that study , receives the benefit , and the Gentry of the Nation frustrated of that support ; which causes so much decay amongst them , that younger sons of Gentlemen , ( being thus destitute of imployment ) are commonly the objects of much pity , either for the suffering , or doing much evill ; and the Common-wealth in generall , much prejudiced by the insultancy of such mungrell spirits , in eminent preferments ; which they too often come to , more by insinuated favour , than reall desert : And indeed not in that case only , but in Church preferments also ; and by this means is it , that so much corruption and abuse is the daily leprosie both of the Civill and Ecclesiasticall State. The Romans were so carefull of the preservation of Honor , that they had a custom by which the children of noble Persons unprovided for should be maintained out of the common treasury : which custom , though all ages have most infinitely applauded , our Nation hath so absolutely exploded , that the Gentry are in all cases hindred as much as may be of all preferments that should give it them , without burthen to the Common-wealth : But it is to be hoped , succeeding times will produce better manners . Of the Esquire . THe division of these Dignities of Honour , was antiently but into twelve parts ; but the addition of Knight Baronet hath made them thirteen : The six first only Noble , as , the Gentleman , Esquire , Knight Bacheler , Knight Banneret , Knight Baronet , and Baron : The other seven Princely , and are allowed Crowns and Coronets ; as the Viscount , Earl , Marquesse , Duke , Prince , King , and Emperour . Sir John Ferne placeth the Viscount in the first division , but I think improperly , in regard of his Coronet . Of the lowest of these enough is said , the next is the Esquire , according to my intended method . The Esquire , or Escuyer , is called in Latine Armiger , but more antiently Scutiger , from the office of bearing a Shield as an attendant upon a Knight , and were ( militaris ordinis ) candidati in the field , because they served not as Knights Bachelers , nor Bachelers , which was then a distinction . The etymology of the word will something signifie as much , being from Scutum in Latin , and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in the Greek , which is a Shield , from the antient way of making it in leather . Armiger nuncupatus est qui Domini sui 〈◊〉 bajulat , ipsisque 〈◊〉 cingit , saith Sir Henry Spelman in his Glossarium , p. 50. Neither came this title in * honorary amongst us till the reign of Richard the second : though the Title as to office was much antienter amongst us , yet the antientest mention of it is in † Order Vitalis , speaking of William Fitz-Osberne Earl of Hereford , and Odo Earl of Kent in the time of the Conqueror . Nam Armigeros suos immodicas praedas , &c. facientes . Dr. Argentre , President of the Parliament of Rhemes , speaks thus of them : Esquires are , Qui scutums Ducibus aut Patronis praeferebant , posteriùs et Strateres , qui Dominos in equos tolleren , & equos regerent . Is qui primus inter coeteros gradus Nobilitatis . And Verstegen tells us , the Teutonick word was Scyld-knapae , which is a Shield-serviture ; but some have since gotten another distinction for the title , which is , that they are Gentlemen , bearing Arms and Armories , in testimony of Nobility , or race from whence they are come . Sir Edward Cook * in his Exposition upon the Statute of 1 Hen. 3. chap. 5. ( of Additions ) saith , that the word Esquire , Armiger , or Scutiger , in legal understanding is derived ab armis quae clypeis gentilitiis honoris insignia gestant . In which sense , as a name of estate and degree it was used in divers Acts of Parliament before the making of that Statute , and after also . But by this the Honour of the title is lost , and every Gentleman of Coat-Armor shall have as great a share in it as themselves ; which in truth hath not been since the dividing the Gentility into these two divisions ; when this title of Esquire was made a legall and appropriated addition . Of these , there are four sorts : By Creation , by Birth , by Dignity , and by Office. Esquires by Creation are sometimes made by Patent , as one Jo. de Kingston was by King Richard , as I mentioned before , being received into the state of a Gentleman , and made an Esquire , and sometimes by the giving of a collar of SS . by the King , as an ensigne of the title . Eúmve ( saith Sir Henry Spelman ) argentatis calcaribus donaverit . Which silver Spurs were given by the King , as the Gold was to the Knight , to difference the Honor ; from whence they are called White-spurs . There is commonly given to him also an addition to his paternall Coat , or a new Coat , if he owned none before , which is due to the descendents onely of his body , not related to any of his line besides ; and the eldest son of that Coat-Armor is ever an Esquire . Esquires by birth , are the eldest sons of Knights , and their eldest sons successively . Sir John Ferne , and Sir Henry Spelman call all Esquires , that being the sons of Lords , are not allowed the title of Lords : but Sir Henry Spelman again , Propriè natalitio jure Armigeri dicuntur , Equitum auratorum filii primogeniti ; & ex ipsis haeredes inperpetuum masculi . Those by Office , are such as bearing high Offices in the Commonwealth or Kings Palace , have not the augmentation of Knighthood or Lordship . Such are the Sergeants at Law , Sheriffs , Escheators , the Sergeant of every Office in the Court. But these are only the possessors of that dignity ; it dying with them : And not only so , but if he lose his Office , that is a Gentleman by Office ; he lo seth his Gentility also . And this ennobling by Office was also among the Saxons , and hath so continued among them , saith Mr. Lambert , If a Churle so thrived , that he had fully five Hides of Land of his own , a Church , and a Kitchen , a Bell-house , and a Gate , a Seat , a severall Office in the Kings Hall , then was he the Theynes right worthy . Amongst which sort of Esq those four of the Kings body are the principall , which ( he saith ) are to be esteemed above the elder sons of Knights . And indeed in all processions of State , they go before the Master of the Jewell-house , all Judges or Sergeants at the Law. Of Knighthood in generall , and of the Knight Bacheler . OF the distinctions by Knighthood there are many in other parts of the World ; but in England only these , Knights Batchelers , Knights of the Bath , Knights Bannerets , and Knights Baronets , and Knights of the Garter . The word Knight , as Mr. Selden saith , coming from the Saxon 〈◊〉 , which signified puer , or servus , as Dienaknecht is yet among the Dutch , for a man-servant . So Tenants by Knights service were called Milites , or Chivalers , because their service was military . Knights ( saith Mr. Cambden ) who of our English Lawyers are termed also in Latin Milites , and in all Nations almost besides , took their name of Horses . The Italians call them Cavalari , the French Chevaliers , the Germans Kutters , and our Britans in Wales , Margagh , all of Riding . Englishmen only term them Knights , by a word , that in old English-language , as also of the German , signifieth indifferently a Servitour , or Minister , and a lusty young man. Hereupon it cometh , that in the old written Gospels translated into the Saxon , we read , for Christs disciples , Christs leorning knights . And elsewhere for Client or Vassal 〈◊〉 . And Bracton ( our ancient civill Lawyer ) maketh mention of Rad Cnyhts , that is Serving-men , who had their Lands with this condition , that they should serve their Lords on Horseback , and so by cuting off a piece of the name , ( as our delight is to speak short ) this name of Knight remained with us . But whence it came that our Country-men should , in penning the Laws , and all Writings since the Norman Conquest 's time , term those Knights in Latin Milites , that is , Souldiers , was transferred unto those that conversing near about the Princes person bare any of the great Offices in the Prince's Court or Train . But with us , I conceive , those were first so called , who held any Lands or Inheritances in Fee , by this Tenure , To serve in the War , for those Lands were tearmed Knights Fees : and those that elsewhere they named Feuditary , that is , Tenants in Fee , were hete called Milites , that is , Knights ; as for example , Milites Regis ; Milites Archiepiscopi Cantuar. Milites Comitis Rogerii ; Comitis Hugonis , &c. for that they received those Lands or Mannors of them , with this condition , to serve them in the Wars , and to yield them fealty and homage ; whereas others , who served for pay , were simply called Solidarii ( from whence the word Soldier ) and Servientes . This Title comming to be a reward or degree of Honor , is thought to be in imitation of the Equestris Order in Rome , to which men were onely advanced for extraordinary virtue , and notable merit : who onely were admitted to beautifie the Caparizons of their Horses & their Armor with Gold , from whence they were called Equites aurati . In which time , all sorts of men were distinguished in their degrees by some garb or habit ; as some by their clothes , some by cutting their hair , &c. The Roman Knights also were allowed to wear a Chain of Gold , and therefore called Torquati , from Manlius Torquatus , who wore the first , obtained by him in a victory in France , which is by us yet imitated in the collar of S S. by which it is easily collected , that the true institution of it was a reward of Honor and Valour , not Sloath and Riches . And therefore all men thus ennobled , ought either to be deserving by action before , or by endeavour and good service after ; and to be else esteemed unlawfull possessors of that Honor , at what rate soever purchased . The first account of Ceremonies ( that we have ) at the creating a Knight , is in the example of King Alfred , Knighting his grandson Athelstan ; and after the continuance of them ( it seems ) grew more precise and customary , by Feasts , giving of Robes , Arms , Spurs , and sometimes Horse and Arms ; untill our later times produced the new , yet usuall Ceremony , of a stroak over the shoulder with a Sword , with these words , Sois Chivaler au nom de Dieu , by the King , or some by his Commission , though the Spur hath lately been observed also . Another manner of Creation there hath been also among the Saxons before the Conquest , which was by sacred Ceremonies , shew'd by one Ingulphus , that lived in the time of the Conquest , by a solemn Confession , a Vigil in the Church , receiving of the Sacrament after an offering of the Sword on the Altar , and redemption of it ; then the Bishop , Abbot , or Priest putting it on him , made him a Knight , with many prayers , called Benedictiones Ensis . To this Order or degree of Honor , an Infant may be admitted , though he be a Ward , and then ( till a late Act of Parliament ordained otherwise ) his Wardship was free , both of person and estate ; but now their lands are not . And there were feudall Laws for , and at , the making the eldest son of a Lord a Knight , as there was also for the marrying of the eldest daughter , as in the Charter of King John , which was mony raised on the Tenant . But any man in the order of Priesthood is debarred the Honor of Knighthood of the Sword , Cùm eorum militia sit 〈◊〉 mundum , carnem , & diabolum . So Sir John Fern. Though I find , that antiently they have been allowed it , but not without first laying aside their Spirituall Cures , and applying themselves to a Secular life . So Matthew Paris , Dei natalis Johannem de Gatesden Clericum , & multis ditatum 〈◊〉 , ( sed omnibus ante expectatum resignatis , quia sic oportuit ) Baltheo cinxit militari . And then the persons that gave this Honor were sometimes subjects ( without any superior authority granted to them ) as well as Soveraignes , though long since it hath been an appropriated priviledge of the Crown . Landfrank Archbishop of Canterbury made William the second a Knight in his Fathers life-time . But the name of Bacheler added to it seems not to have been till the 33 of 〈◊〉 the third . Sir John Fern also tells of Ensignes that anciently were marks of Knighthood , as a Ring on the thumb , a Chain of Gold , and gilt Spurrs . All which tokens of his Honor he was as carefully to preserve , as a Captain his Banner , which ( according to the rules of Arms then ) if he once lost basely in the field , he was 〈◊〉 of flying any more again , till he had regained the same or another from the Enemy . To which end it was carefully to be provided , that such men as were endowed with this Honor , should have these Accomplishments , He ought to be faithfull and religious , just in his engagements , valiant in his enterprises , obedient to his Superiors , expert in Military affairs , watchfull and temperate , charitable to the poor , free from debauchery , not a boaster with his tongue , ready to help and defend Ladies , especially Widows and Orphans : and he ought to be ever in a readinesse , with Horse and Arms , and to attend the command of his Soveraign in all Wars , both Civill and Forrain ; the neglect where of is a crime as great , as to fight against him , and merits at the least a shamefull degrading And formerly when the King hath been to make a Knight , he sate gloriously in his State , arrayed in cloth of Gold of the most precious and costly bodkin-work , and crowned with his Crown of Gold : and to every Knight he allowed or gave a hundred shillings for his Harnessements , &c. And Knights in this manner dubbed made this esteem thereof , that in it consisted the guerdon of their Virtue and Valour , the praise of their House and Family , the memoriall of their Stock and Linage ; and lastly , the glory of their Name . There are many priviledges belonging to that Dignity ; and Mr. Selden speaks of a Law , that a man was to be punished with the losse of a hand , that should strike a Knight ; yet he sayes , he remembers no example of the practise of it , which I think is the greater honor to the Dignity , as being a shame , that any such Law should be the guard of a man so honored with Arms , and appropriated to the Sword. Against a Knight in the War , runneth no prescription . The Office of a Coroner in former times being honorable , none were capable of it but a Knight . By antient Custom , none were admitted to the House of Parliament , but who were Milites gladiis accincti . Many other priviledges there were appropriated to them , according to the rules of Honor , and custom of the Nation , as well as requisites in them ; which more at large may be understood in Sir Will. Segar's Honor Military and Civill . Where is to be found the severity in degrading them . When if any Knight at any time had been corrupted with mony by his Prince's Enemy ; or committed any other notable fact against Loyalty and Honor ; he was apprehended , and caused to be armed from head to foot , and on a high Scaffold in the Church he was placed ; and after the Priests had sung some funerall Psalm , as though he had been dead ; first , they took off his Helmet , to shew his face , and so by degrees his whole Armor : and then the Heralds crying out , This is a disloyall Miscreant ; with many other ignoble Ceremonies , he was thrown down the Stage with a rope . This he mentions to have been about the time of King Arthur . We have many examples of latter times also of degrading Knights , for dishonorably absenting from the service of the King , and other treasons ; with which seising on all that he had ( except one Horse ; ne , qui dignitate factus est Eques , cogatur pedes incedere : for in all Countries , the Title is related to a Horse , from serving on Horseback ; ) and also by the cutting off their Spurrs from their heels , taking away his Sword , reversing his Coat-Arms , and the like ; as in the degrading of Sir Ralph Gray . See more at large Sir William Segar , Mr. Selden , and Sir John Fern. The Creation Robe of a Knight of y e Garter IT is ever to be observed , that when the word Knight is found without any addition of distinction , it is meant by the Knight Batcheler . Of the Order of the Bath , the first that are taken notice of is in 〈◊〉 , who gives an account of 46 made by Henry the Fourth : But Mr. Selden is of an opinion , they were long before . Mr. Upton ( in a Manuscript which Mr. Bish ( a Gentleman much deserving of Honor from our English Gentry ) hath since very 〈◊〉 illustrated and published ) takes notice of this Order in these words , Creantur 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 modis , &c. Creantur in alio modo Milites per Balneum , qui modus multùm observatur in Anglia , & in 〈◊〉 Regnis . He lived in the time of Henry the sixth . The Honor is invested with a great deal of noble Ceremony , as is seen by the example of Henry the seventh , when he sent Writs to divers Lords and Gentlemen , to come up to the making Henry his second son Knight of the Bath , Ad ordinem Militia 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 suscipiendum , juxta antiquam consuetudinem in creatione usitatam . When one is to be made a Knight of the Bath , he comming up to the Court , is very nobly received by the Officers and Nobles of the Court ; where he hath two Esquires appointed to wait on him , who convey him to a Chamber , where is to be Musick before he commeth to the Tubbs ; then they uncloath him , and put him naked into the Bath , where , if there be any other Knights of the Order in the Court , they come in their Order and salute him , and after discourse concerning the Order , they sprinkle some of the water on his shoulder , and so depart . Then the Esquires convey him to a bed , where he is dryed , and then he putting on his clothes , they put over them a long gray coat like a Hermit's weed , with long sleeves , and a hood ; then the Knights return to him again , and lead him to the Chappel , where he receives a cup of spiced Wine , and with that salutes the Knights , who after leave him there , onely with his Esquires and Priest , where he performs a Vigill till almost day , with Prayers and Offerings . After this , and some repose in his Chamber , the next morning , where are Robes provided for him ; the Knights wait on him again , and do service to him in his making ready ; one giving him his doublet , another his breeches , another combes his head , &c. Then with Musick he is brought to the Hall in the Court on Horsback , accompanied with those Knights and Esquires , where the Marshall meets him . Then the King comming to the Hall , commands a Lord to put on his right Spur , and making a crosse upon his knee , rises up and kisses him , and so another the left . Then the King puts the Sword about him himself , and smiting him on the shoulder , says , Be a good Knight , and kisses him . Then with the Musick he is conducted again to the Chappel , where he goes to the Altar , and performs some Ceremonies , maketh protestation for the performance of the Orders of Knighthood . Then the King's Cook comes to him with a knife in his hand , to demand his fee ; and tells him , That if he do any thing against the Orders of Chivalry , he will cut his 〈◊〉 off from his heels . Then he is habited in a blew Gown with Maunches open , like a Priest , and so led again to the Hall. The particular manner is more at large set down by Sir William Segar , in his Honor Military and Civill , and Cambden's Britannia . They are distinguished ordinarily by the wearing of a red Ribbon cross the left shoulder , as Knights of the Garter by the blew . And have this priviledge above all Knights , their sons are free from Wardship : as in the example of the Heir of Sir Thomas Wise of Essex , which was a Cause in Chancery , and the Heir Victor . Of Bannerets . THis was antiently an Order in France , and ( excert that in England they are not created by Parent , not the Title Hereditary , ) the same : The creation is almost the same with theirs , by the solemn delivery of a Banner , charged with the Arms of him that is to be created , and cutting or tearing off the end of a Pennon or Streamers , to make it square into the shape of a Banner , are called by some Equites vexillarii . Sir William Segar relates the Ceremony thus ; He is led between two other Knights into the presence of the King or Generall , with his Pennon of Arms in his hand , and there the Heralds declare his merit , for which he deserves to be made a Knight Banneret , and thenceforth to display a Banner in the field . Then the King , or Generall , causes the point of his Pennon to be rent off ; and the new made Knight returns to his Tent , the Trumpets sounding before him . A Banneret thus made may bear his Banner display'd , if he be a Captain , and set his Arms thereon , as other Degrees above him . And although the Knight Baronet be an honor given by Patent , and made hereditary ; yet , by Decree of King fames it is established , that all such Bannerets , as shall be made by the Kings Majesty , his heirs and successors , under their Standard , display'd in an Army Royall in open War , the King personally present ; for the tearm of the lives of such Bannerets , shall for ever take place and precedency as well before all other Bannerets , as the younger sons of Viscounts , and Barons , as also before all Baronets ; but not otherwise . And this Order was of so great estimation , that divers Knights Bachelers and Esquires served under them ; which Title , it seems , in many antient Writs , hath been mis-writ Barronets , as in a Patent to Sir Ralph Fane , a Knight Banneret under Edward the sixt , he is called Barronettus for Bannerettus ; which Title of Baronet was not amongst us till King James . Of Baronet . THe Title of Baronet was erected by King James , in the ninth year of his Reign : He made diverse on the 22 day of May , whose Patents were all of one form , without any difference at all ; the 〈◊〉 or Argument being for the propagating a Plantation in Ulster in Ireland , to which the aid of these Knights was ordained ; the words run thus , 〈◊〉 , ex certa scientia & mero 〈◊〉 nostris , Ordinavimus , ereximus , constituimus & creavimus quendam statum , gradum , dignitatem , nomen & titulum Baronetti ( Anglice of a Baronet ) infra hoc Regnum nostrum Angliae perpetuis temporibus duraturum . Their aid was the maintenance of thirty Soldiers in that Province for three years . Their Titles were to descend to the heirs male of their body , and to take place before all Knights Bachelers , Knights of the Bath , and Knights Bannerets , ( the other Degree before specified , being afterward made ) and that the name of Baronet in all Writs , Commissions , and Style , should be added to his Surname ; and that the addition of Sir should precede in all mentionings of his name ( as the Title of Lady and Madam to the Wives of them ) and their Successors ; and that they should take place according to the priority of the date of their Patents inter se , and so to their successors . In which Patents also , the King did engage for himself and successors , that there should be but two hundred of them made ; and that there should be never any degree of Honor established , that should take place between the Baronet and Baron ; and if for want of heirs male , the Title in any should fall , there should never be any created in their room , but that the Title should diminish , to the honour of them remaining , and be by that means reduced to a 〈◊〉 number . And afterward a Commission was ordained under the great Seal , for filling up the number , who had instructions also enacted ; among which , they that desired to be admitted into the dignity of Baronets , must maintain the number of thirty Foot-Soldiers in Ireland for three years , after the rate of eight-pence sterling a day ; and a years pay to be paid in ( at the passing of the Patent ) to the Exchequer . And again , That they must be of good reputation , and descended of a Grand-father , at least , by the father's side , that bare Arms ; and have also a certain yearly revenue of one thousand pounds de claro . They were to take bond also for the true payment of that maintenance , and to appoint one particular Treasurer for it , that it might not come into the King's Exchequer . After this , many being made , it was also ordained by the King , That they and their descendents , being of full age , should be Knighted ; and that they should in a Canton or Inescutcheon , as they pleased , bear the Arms of Ulster , which is Argent , a sinister hand , and Gules . There are many other Orders of Knighthood , almost in every Nation ; some appropriated to the Country , and some of more excellency , as is that of the Garter , whereof in another place I shall speak with the rest ; but these Titles have an estimated honor due to them , greater or lesse , according to the quality of the creator : for the Knight made by the King , shall be preferred before a Knight made by a Prince of meaner title . So all Emperors , Kings , and Princes , acknowledging no lawfull Superior , may make Knights ; as also some Common-wealths , as the State of Venice and Genoa : The Popes also sometimes do make Knights , calling them after their own names , as , Chevaleri de San Pedro , San Paulo , 〈◊〉 , &c. And so much for Knights may serve in this place . Of Barons . THis word Baron is very variously interpreted , as first , that it comes from the word Baria in Greek , which signifies Authoritas gravis . Bracton interprets it , Robur belli . Again , saith Sir Henry Spelman , the word Baro is the same in Latine with Vir , whose derivation is from Vi , Force ; and from thence , Sunt & alii potentes sub rege qui dicuntur Barones , id est , robur belli . And taking of it in that sense we now understand it , Sir Henry Spelman calls him , Cliens feodalis ; and Vassallus capitalis . Hujusmodi sunt ( saith he ) qui Pagos , Urbes , Castra , vel eximiam ruris portionem , cum jurisdictione acceperunt à Rege . The Creation Robe of a Baron This word is a generall notion in England to all Lords of the Great Council of Parliament , as it is in Naples and Lumbardy , where all those Lords that are called Titulati , are in generall styled Barons ; thus dignitas Baronalis stat ut genus . This word was used by the Danes in the stead of Thane , which was among the Saxons a Title of Honor , and being next the King , he was called the King's Thane . And in the Laws of William the first , instead of the Earl , King's Thane , and middle Thane , of the Saxons times ; the title of Count or Earl , of Baron , and of Valvasor are used . By which we understand it to have been , though not in the same name , yet notion , a Feodall honor of great antiquity ; Sir Henry Spelman says , they were such as had not onely Castles , Towns , or great parts of Countries in their jurisdiction , but they had their Valvasores , ( Minores , I conceive ; for there were then Valvasores , Majores , & Minores ; Milites , & libere tenentes . ) Which should signifie an honor of command in the Common-wealth . In France , Germany , and Italy , Baronem vocant , qui merum mistumque Imperium habet in aliquo Castro , ex concessione 〈◊〉 . And it hath been a common opinion , that every Earldom in times past had under it ten Barons , and every Barony ten Knights Fees holden of him : But those Knights Fees , say other Authors , were uncertain for number . However , we find many Barons created in the times after the comming in of the Normans that held both of Knights service , and of the Crown in chief ; which were either Spiritual or Temporall ; and it is certain , that all honorary Barons from the Conquest , till the latter time of King John , were onely Barons by tenure . These Spirituall Barons were distinguished from the Temporall Thane , in the time of the Saxons , by holding their lands free from all secular service ; excepting trinoda necessitas , ( as it was called ) which was , assistance in War , in building of Bridges , and Castles . Which continued till the fourth year of William the first , who then made the Bishopricks and Abbies , subject to Knights service in chief , by creation of new tenures ; and so first turned their possessions into Baronies , and thereby made them Barons of the Kingdom by tenure . That all Bishops , Abbots , Priors , and the like , that held in chief of the King , had their possessions as Baronies , and were accordingly to do services , and to sit in judgment with the rest of the Barons in all cases , but cases of Blood , from which they are prohibited by the Canon-Law . This Honor of Baronady is of three kinds ; by Tenure , by Creation , and by Writ . Barons by Tenure are the Barons Spirituall , as I said before , which are reputed Peers of the Realm , and were ever first in nomination , and take place on the Prince's right hand in Parliament , and have been capable of temporall 〈◊〉 , and some of them are accounted Count Palatines in their Jurisdictions . And by tenure Temporall , which are such as hold their Honor , Castle , or Mannor , as the head of their Barony , per Baroniam , which is Grand Serjanty . By which tenure , they ought to be summoned to Parliament . See Bracton , lib. 5. fol. 351. & 357. But he is no Lord of the Parliament , untill he be called by Writ to the Parliament . These Barons by renure in the time of the Conqueror , and after , were very numerous ; and 〈◊〉 his time , as I conceive , distinguished into Majores & Minores , and summoned accordingly to Parliament : the Majores by immediate Writ from the King , the others by generall Writ from the high Sheriff at the King's command . But these had also another distinction , which was ; the first , were called onely Barons by tenure then , and the last Tenants in chief , which were after quite excluded the Parliament , as Mr. Cambden says , in the reign of Henry the third , by a Law made , that none of the Barons should assemble in Parliament , but such as were summoned by speciall Writ from the King. And that King Edward the first summoned always those of antient Families , that were most wise ; but omitted their sons after their death , if they were not answerable to their parents in understanding . But Mr. 〈◊〉 opinion is , that not long after the Grand Charter of King John , the Law for excluding all Tenants in chief was made . From whence came that other dignity of Barons by Writ , the King summoning whom he pleased , though he were but a private Gentleman or Knight , as many Seculars , Priors , Abbots , and Deacons also ; all which have been fince omitted , that held nothing of the King in chief , or Grand Tenure . This title of Baron by Writ is by some esteemed onely temporary , pro termino Parliamenti ; but that cannot be , for the ceremony of his admittance signifies more than a titular or temporary Honor , which is this ; He is first brought by the Garter-King at Arms in his Soveraign Coat , to the Lord Chancellor , between two of the youngest Barons , who bear the Robe of a Baron ; there he shews his Prescript , which the Chancellor reads , then congratulates him as a Baron , and invests him with those Robes , and sends him to take his place . Then the Writ is delivered to the Clerk of the Parliament , and he by the Garter shewed to the Barons , and placed in the House ; and from thence is this title allowed him as hereditary . Since these two sorts of Barons in the time of Richard the second , hath another been established , which is Barons by Patent , and indeed more usuall in our latter times than those by Writ . He first created John de Beauchamp Steward of the houshold , Baron of Kiderminster to him and his heirs males of his body . And this comming afterwards to be the onely way of creation , they had commonly creation-mony granted them , as Sir Ralph Botiller , who had one hundred marks granted him annuity out of the County of Lincoln . Some of those Minores have yet remained to our memories , as the Barons of the Cinque Ports , Barons of the Exchequer , &c. and some others , which are called Barons , yet have not the honor ; such are those that were created by Count Palatines , as the Baron of Kinderton , and some few others . As concerning the descent of this Honor , and the extension of it , it many times descends to heirs female , as when there is no speciall entail on the heirs male ; yet then no husband of that heir female shall enjoy the style and honor in right of his wife , unlesse he have issue by her , as it was decreed by Henry the eighth , in the case of Mr. Wimbry , for the style of the Lord Talboyes . Neither shall any honor of Barony by Tenure be conveyed with the 〈◊〉 of any place from whence the title is derived , without licence immediate from the King ; but all such as shall without , is absolutely forfeited and stopt , and returns again into that great Fount ain of Honor the Crown . Now though this dignity be not allowed the Princely distinction of a Coronet , yet is he as a Lord of the Parliament reckoned among the Peers of the Realm , and priviledged amongst them in all these things , as first , in all trialls of criminall causes , he is not tried by a Jury , but a Bench of Peers . If for Treason he be indicted , and shall stand mute , he shall be convicted , but not prest ; but if it be for Felony , his standing silent shall not convict him . Upon any tryall of Peers , the Lords that are to give Verdict , are not , like a Jury , put upon their Oaths , but upon their Honor. A Peer of the Realm is not to be Empannelled in any Jury , but what concerns the King 's Enquiry . Neither are they to be arrested by any Warrant of Justice of Peace , either for the peace or good behaviour . Neither is he to be put upon his Oath , upon any appearance he shall make in Court ; but his Honor to be esteemed as binding . And whereas all Burgesses of the Commons House are sworn to Supremacy , the Barons of the Upper-House of Parliament are not ; with many other priviledges . But it is to be noted , that by these are onely meant , to Lords of the Parliament , not to the sons of Dukes , Marquesses , or Earls , during the life of their fathers . Nor to any Baron of another Kingdom in this , though under the same allegiance , who are not triable out of their own Kingdome , unlesse they enjoy some honor in this . The form of creating a Baron is in this manner . The King sitting in state in the Presence-Chamber ; First , the Hetalds by two and two , and their Garter Principall King alone proceed , bearing in his hand the Patent of creation ; next to him a Baron bearing the Robes ; and then the Person to be created followeth betwixt two other Barons . Being entred the Chamber of Presence , they make their obeysance to the King three times . Garter then delivereth the Patent to the Lord Chamberlain of the houshold , and he to the King , and the King to one of his Principall Secretaries of State , who readeth it , and at the word Investimus , the King putteth on him the Baron's robe ; so soon as the Patent is read , it is to be delivered to the King , who gives it him that is created . Then he returning thanks for his great honor , withdraws in the same manner he came in , the Trumpers sounding , and so he goes to dinner . Where , after the second service is gone up , the Garter with the rest of the Heralds cometh neer the Table , where first pronouncing Largesse , with a loud voyce he declareth the King's style in Latin , French , and English ; and then standing somewhat further off , pronounceth Largesse again , with the style of him that is newly created . In which form was William Cecill created Lord Burghley , 15. of Febr. 13. Elizab. Of the Viscount . THis word in Latin is Vice-comes , which is interpreted from the office of the person who was one , cui Dominus ( hoc est , Comes ) committit vices suas , sive gubernationem castri , saith Sir John Ferne. The Title is derived from the same Order in France : which there were only first substitutes to Earls , till , getting themselves first in power , got also to have the title honorary and hereditary , between the Earl and Baron , it being the same word which signifieth our Sheriffe , and began not with us , till about the 18. year of Henry the sixth , who then created John Lord Beaumont Viscount Beaumont , by Letters patent . Though Sir John Fern tells us of it in the time of Henry the first , and King Stephen ; and though the Elder sons of Dukes are styled Earls during their fathers life time , ( so the Eldest sons of Marquesses are styled by their Fathers Vicounties and Baronies , and called Lords , and the younger sons saluted with Lord ) yet it is by 〈◊〉 only . To this degree , is allowed a Surcoat , Mantle , Hood , and a Circulet , without either flowers , or points , as in the discourse of Armory shall be seen , and is created with the same ceremony , those above him are . Of the Count or Earl. THe next precedency is an Earl , called in Latin , Comes : and thence is an English word Count , which word Comes we have from the example of the Romans ; amongst whom they used it for the title of sundry offices . Coke defines them thus , Dicuntur Comites , quia à Comitatu , five à societate nomen sumpserunt ; qui etiam dici possunt Consules a Consulendo , &c. But John of Salisbury , who writ in the time of Henry the second , says thus , Comites dici à 〈◊〉 participatione . And the word Earl we had from the Saxons , from whence , till we borrowed the word Honor , we used the word Earl for gentle or noble , and Ethel , which was sometimes abridged to el , so that of Ear-ethel , it was Ear-el , and by abbreviation Earl , which the Dutch called Eorle . Amongst the Germans , they have the word Grave for it , as Palsgrave , Landgrave , Reingrave , &c. from the word Gerefa , by abbreviation Gereve , and Grave , as also Reve , from whence our Shierreve , or Shirriffe , as some do abbreviate it . Which word in the Teutonick , signifies a Disposer or Director . Others have , That the word with the Saxons , was Erlig , and Ethling , and used for the same office of Ealderman was before ; and the word Ealderman , which now is writ Alderman , was transferred to a lower degree ; who used the word also Thegon or Thaine for Baron , as I said before . But the word Ealderman , and Ethling , it seems , did only signifie them according to Civill power , and the word Heretoga , from whence Hertshog , for their Military power ; the former word being no more then Senior , or Senator . This title of Ealdermen continued , for Duces , Principes , & Comites , untill Canutus reign , when the word Earl was brought in , and the other lost , as to that Honor. What the Jurisdiction of the Ealderman in those times was , and how absolute , or large , is to me yet uncertain : though large it was , doubtlesse , because of the severall Offices that were under them ; but as it hath remained since the Conquest , we find more reasonable satisfaction . Their possessions were sometimes the whole Territories they derived their Title from , and sometimes not ; but some particular 〈◊〉 , or place in it . We find also , that both it , and Thane were honorary , and feudall Titles . Upon the coming in of the Normans , this word was turned into Comes , or Count , since when it hath remained . And this word in the Empire , was given to Quotquot è Comitatu Principis erant , to all that were admitted to society of the Prince . So the 〈◊〉 styled them in Warre , Commilitones , in the Court Comites . The dignity is of divers kinds , for an Earl acknowledging no Superior , is equall to a Prince . This Title , as it continues since the Conquest , is either locall , or personall . Locall , as from the denomination of some County , or other Territory ; and Personall , that hath its being in some great Office , as Earl-Marshal , and the like . Those locall are also simplices , and Palatine : which last retain the same constitution , the Saxons time allowed them ; which is Juraeregalia , or merum , & mixtum Imperium , and could make Barons under them , as those of Chester , Lancaster , the Bishopricks of Durham and Ely. Hugh Lupus , had the County Palatine of Chester , given him by the Conquerour , Ita liberè ad Gladium , 〈◊〉 ipse Rex tenebat Angliam ad Coronam . Who governed the County forty years , he created eight Barons , and built the Abbey of Chester . Lancaster was made a Palatinate , by Edward the third , as says Sir William Segar , and had Barons , Chancery , and Seal ; and so had the Bishopricks of Durham and Ely. The office of those Barons , being to sit in Councell , and Judgment , with the Earl. To the County Palatine of Chester , 〈◊〉 been Chamberlains , who supplied the place of Chancellor , Justices , before whom the causes that should else belong to the King's Bench , and Common Pleas , are triable ; a Baron of the Exchequer , a Sheriffe , and other offices proportionably to those of the Crown at Westminster , which being since reserved in the Crown , is given to the Prince of Wales , when he is created . This County had this honor , I conceive , out of regard to the great trust , was reposed in the first Earl , which was to subdue , and keep in order the British , or Welch after the Conquest . Of those that are not Palatine , we find their Creation also as ancient as the Conquest , William theConqueror , made Alan Fergent thenDuke of Brittaign , Earl of Richmond , by a Patent . The Creation Robe of a Marquesse Of the Marquesse . THis word Marquesse at the first was used to all Earls and Barons , that were Lords Marchers , or Lords of Frontires ; and came afterward into a Title of speciall dignity , between that of Duke and Earl : beginning in the time of Richard the second , who created Robert de Vere ( Earl of Oxford ) Marquesse of Dublin , Per gladii cincturam , & circuli aurei suo capiti positionem ; The form of the Patent was then , and many ages since very various , but it is now regulated to one method ; which is the same in a manner with that of Earl , only the word Marchio is put in the place of Comes : the ceremony of Creation much at one , and the title hereditary ; the annuity money in their Patent is forty marks . And here , by the way , I cannot but observe one note of Mr. Seldens ; that John Beaufort Earl of Somerset , modestly refused to be made Marquesse of Dorset , by Henry the fourth , because the title was then so strange , and new in the Kingdome . The Marquesse is honored with a Coronet of gold flurred , the points and flowers of equall height ; whereas of the Earls , the pearled points are much longer then the flowers . His Mantle also doubled Ermine , as is the Earls also ; but the Earls is but of four , and the Marquesses is of five : the doubling of the Viscount , is to be understood , to be but of Miniver , or plain white Fur , so is the Barons ; the Barons of two , the Vice-counts of three doublings . Of the Duke . The Creation Robe of a Duke Where , by the way , one note is proper to be understood , that as he was here created without any Ceremony , except the girding with a Sword , so in all other degrees of honor , where a lesser degree is conferred on a person of a greater , there needs nothing but meer Patent , without any ceremony of creation . But John , son to Edward the third , being created Duke of Lancaster , had a Cap of furre added to the ceremony , and succeeding times have had the Sword , Crownet , and Verge of Gold , a Surcoat , Mantle and Hood , and a Ducal cap doubled Ermin , but not indented , and is honored with the style of , Gratious and Excellent . These if they be of Royall line , are reputed as Arch-dukes . It is also allowed , that a Duke tantum , shall take place before any Lord , that is both Marquesse and Earl ; but a Duke , that is Marquesse , or Earl besides , shall precede him . The Duke , Marquesse , and Earl at their creation have a sword put over their shoulders , which the Vice-count and Baron have not . Of the Arch-Duke . THis title is of neer relation to the other , but not found in any place , save in the house of Austria , the addition of which word Arch , is from the Greek word Archos , which is as much as Princeps in Latin. So he taketh place of all other Dukes ; and he is allowed a Surcoat , a Mantle , and a Hood of Crimson Velvet , at his Creation : He hath also a Chapeau , or Ducal Cap doubled Ermin indented ; with a Coronet about the same , and an arch of Gold , with an Orbe , and Verge of Gold. Of these titles , the Duke , Marquesse , and Earl are esteemed Princely ; especially the two last : These also are allowed to bear their Crests with Helmets , the Beaver directly forward , whereas a Gentleman , Knight , and Baron , bare them with half the Beaver seen . The Creation Robe of the Prince of Wales The Prince . THe next , and first , immediately subordinate to the Crown , amongst these radiant Stars is , The Prince , who in England onely is the Prince of Wales , the first-born of the King. These in the Saxons time were called Clitons , and clitunculi , from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , that is , Illustrious . But , since it hath been a title of creation for honor to the rising sun , there were none created in the Nation , but the King 's eldest son ; who are in all Nations honored above all other subjects , and amongst some , as in Spain , have been called King 's during the life of their Fathers , because of his so neer a relation to the Crown , that if the Father dye , he is ipso 〈◊〉 Rex , there being no interregnum , though he be not crowned . In a Statute of the second , of Henry the fourth , it is provided , that the Prince may give his honorable Liveries of signes , to the Lords , or to his meniall Gentry ; and that the said Lords , may wear the same , as they wear the Kings Livery ; and that the Menials of the Prince , may wear the same as the King's menials ; but this hath been since abridged . So likewise by a Statute of the 25. of Edward the third , chap. 2. it is declared , that to compasse , or imagine the death of the Kings eldest son , and heir , is , Crimen laesae Majestatis , high Treason , as also to violate the wife of the King 's eldest son . And again , see Coke , 8. part . 28. The Prince shineth with the beams of his Father , and is holden to be one person with him . Yet doth he acknowledge a reverence , not only as to a Father , but Soveraign , and to that purpose continues that Motto , which the Black Prince took up , ( Ick dien ) I serve . He is called Princeps , quia principalis in strenuitate post regem , saith Sir William Segar . The first , that we read of in England , was Edward , eldest son of Henry the third , and after him , the eldest son of the King hath been ever by Patent , and Ceremonies of Instalment , created Prince of Wales , Earl of Chester , and Flint , being born Duke of Cornwall . The Prince , or first born of the King in France , is called the Dauphin ; in Spain , l' Infanta . There are , in other Countries , Princes by Creation , as the Prince of Piemont , the Prince of Orange , and many others , but these are also now become hereditary , and in some Countries , all the Royall line are styled Princes . When he is created , he is presented before the King in Princely Robes , who putteth about his neck a Sword bend-wise , a Cap and Coronet over his head , a Ring on his middle finger , a Verge of gold in his hand , and his Letters Patents after they are read . His Mantle is once more doubled then the Dukes , and his Coronet of Crosses , and Flowers de Luce , and his Cap of State doubled indented . The King. THe King is the next , and in our Nations the highest , being subordinate to no sublunary power , as those of Spain , Portugall , and other Kingdoms of Europe , and other parts of the world , are . He is the true Fountain from whence all these Rivulets and swelling Streams of Honor spring . He is called Rex , ( from whence the word Rego came ) and King amongst us , from the Saxon word Koning , and Kuning . To say any thing of the Originall of the Government here , were in vain , for it is unknown ; onely I may say , that none can produce any thing to assure any Government before it ; and what I spake in the beginning concerning the first institution of it universally , is sufficient : Besides , these times have said enough to that purpose . He hath ever bin of great reverence amongst these Kingdoms of Europe , the very Title carrying Divinity in it , being of Heavenly institution , ordained by God himself ; the Bond of Peace , and the Sword of Justice . He is God's Vicegerent , and to be obeyed accordingly , both in Church and State : If good , he is a blessing ; if bad , a judgment . He is styled Pater Patriae , & Caput Reipub : and for that the protection of his Subjects lies in his breast , the Militia is annexed to his Crown , and the Sword as well as Scepter put into his hand . He hath power of pardoning where the Law condemns , even Parliament-Attainder . The things that belongs to Justice and Peace are annexed to the Crown , nor can they be separated . The Parliament , in the behalf of Henry the eighth , writ thus to the Pope : His Royall Majesty is the Head , and the very Soul of us all ; his Royall Majestie 's cause is the cause of us all , derived from the Head upon the Members ; his griefs and injuries are ours , we all suffer equally with him . Mr. Camden speaks thus of him , The King is the most excellent part of the Common-wealth ; next unto God , he is under no vassallage ; he takes his investiture from no man , he acknowledges no Superior but God. In England , France , Spain , Denmark , and other Kingdoms , they are styled Kings , Dei gratia , by the grace of God. Which hath been an antient custom in these Nations , in the same or the like words , as in the style of King Ethelbald : Ethelbaldus divina dispensatione Rex Merciorum ( An. 716. ) Kenulphus , Dei misericordia , Rex Merciorum . Beoredus , largiente Dei gratia , Rex Merciorum . Ego Edwardus Dei gratia Rex Anglorum . Ego Wilielmus Dei beneficio Rex Anglorum . And the Kings of England since , by a Bull from Rome , in the time of our obedience to the Pope , have been styled , Defenders of the Faith ; and by Act of Parliament , of Henry the eighth , ( to whom that Bull was sent ) had the title of Supream Head of the Church of England annexed . As the King of France is styled , Rex Francorum Christianissimus ; the King of Spain , Rex Catholicus , or Catholica Majestad , Catholick Majesty ; and the Emperor , Defender of the Church . It is the manner of Kings also to write in the plurall number , which is God's own style , as Mandamus , Volumus , Facimus , &c. And indeed , in the Scripture we often find them called gods , and in that sense may be styled Divi , or Dii , quia Dei vicarii , & Dei voce judicant . Mr. Selden speaks thus upon this subject : Man , as a civill creature , was directed to this form of subjection ; As if the sole observation of Nature had necessarily led the affections of men to this kinde of state . Whence it is also , that while others of the most curious in Philosophy tells us of Angells , and the Supream Heavens being immediately Governed by the Maker of all things ; of the Planets and other Stars being ruled by the Sun ; and the separated Souls , and the Aire , being subject to the Moon ; they add together , that upon Earth , Kings are in like sort of Government ; as if naturall reason had first ordained them on earth , by an unavoidable imitation of the Creator's providence , used in that institution of Government in the Ayr , Starrs , and Heaven . Neither do the antientest Gentiles speak of those elder times , than with clear supposition of Monarchy , even in the Infancy of the world . And though divers of the chiefest States of the old Grecians were in their most flourishing times Democracies , or Optimacies ; yet the more antient States there , were in every place Monarchies , as is expresly noted by Pausanias . They are honored in all salutations , not onely with kissing the hand , but bowing the knee also , in acknowledgment of their superiority to all . Some are of opinion , that this kind of Salutation came first to Rome , from the old customes of the Asiatick Kingdoms . For when the Persians meet , you may know whether they be equall or not , for in salutation they kisse each other ; but if one be somewhat inferior , they kisse onely the cheek ; but if one be more ignoble , he falls down adoring the other , and passing by one another he turns his back , as unworthy to look him in the face , that is so much above him in honor . The Ceremonies at his Coronation are many , and in England more than any other Countries , As the annoynting with Oyl , the sacred Consecration ( which is to no other Kings but France , Sicily , and Jerusalem ) ; and his Crown fell on his head with many Religious Ceremonies , which Spain , Portugall , Aragon , and Navar , &c. have not ; besides the Ensignes of Regality , which are , a Ring to signifie his faithfulnesse , a Bracelet for good works , a Scepter for Justice , a Sword for vengeance , Purple 〈◊〉 to attract reverence , and a Diadem triumphant to blazon his glory . The Ceremony of Anointing , every one almost understands to have been an . Institution as old as the Law of God almost ; for though we find no speciall command in the Law delivered for it , yet we find examples of it in a continued succession from God's own people , and that with the holy Oyl , with which none , by the command in the Law , were to be anoynted , but the Priest ; which Oyl never wasted . And that this hath been no Innovation among us , is proved by Mr. Selden , who makes it appear to be of above a thousand years standing , before it was either in the Empire or France . Though they have had it in France a long time , and they say by divine Institution . 〈◊〉 upon us for their authority , the Miracle of a Dove , that brought a Vial of holy Oyl from Heaven , to anoynt King Clovis the first , about five hundred years since Christ ; which Oyle , they say , hath never wasted . It was the saying of Thomas Becket , Archbishop of Canterbury , Inunguntur Reges in Capite , etiam Pectore , & Brachiis ; quod 〈◊〉 ficat gloriam , sanctitatem , & fortitudinem . Kings are annointed on the Head , to signifie their glory ; on the Breast , to 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 their sanctity ; on their Arms , to 〈◊〉 their power . He is Crowned with an Imperiall Crown , the Crown set on his head by the Archbishop of Canterbury , a Prerogative to that See , as it is in Spain to Toledo , in France to Rheims , and in Swethen to Upsalia . But this Imperiall Crown hath not been long in use among us , though our Kings have have had Imperiall Commands , as over Scotland , Ireland , Man , and other 〈◊〉 : yet of Ireland they were but Lords , untill the 33 year of Henry the eighth , he being notwithstanding as absolute a Monarch over it when he was but Lord of Ireland , as when he was styled King. The Crowns formerly were but the same in a manner with that of an Earl now . Neither is it to be found , that any such thing as a Diadem was in use at all , till the time of Constantine 〈◊〉 Great , the distinction before being some kind of Chaplet , or , which is most certain , a white silk Fillet about the brows , which was an ordinary way to distinguish them , as I have my self seen Statues of the Emperor , with such a kind of Fillet about the head . From whence is that which we read , that Alexander the Great took off his white Diadem , to cure the madness of Seleucus . The first that was Crowned with this kind of Imperiall Crown , floryed and arched , was Henry the third , say some ; but others , Henry the first : and indeed it is left disputable to me , so by me to others . However , it is very probable and plain , that the antientest Ensign of Regall Authority was the Scepter ; which is every where spoken of , both in the Scriptures and profane Stories . There is another Ensign of their Authority , which is a Globe with a Cross , in use amongst us ever since Edward the Confessor , which is placed in the left hand , as is seen in most of their Coyns ; the Cross denoting his Faith , and the Globe his Empire both by Sea and Land , as it is said of Justinian , who was the first Emperor that ever had it . At the Coronation of the Emperor , it is carried by the Count Palatine of the Rhine , where they call it Pomum Imperiale . This power , dignity , and state , hath been enjoyed by the Female sex , as heirs descending by the common right of Inheritance , and not onely in our parts , but many others , as at this day in Swethen , when there is not the least punctilio of a diminution in respect of the Sex. Besides , for an addition to the honor of a King , there is the same state allowed to a Queen , during the life of her husband , as to a Queen absolute almost , and is allowed a Crown . She is called Queen from the Saxon word Cuningine , as King from Cuning , onely by variation of the gender , as it was their manner in such cases . She is permitted to sit in State at the King 's right hand , and to keep a Court distinct from the King , although she be but the daughter of an Earl. But this was in the time of King Edgbert prohibited , and so for a long time continued , by reason of Eadburgh , who poysoned her husband King Brithick of the West-Saxons . And if she be the daughter of a King Superior to her husband , she may retain the dignity of her father's daughter , and in this case the daughter hath preceded the mother . And although in these latter times , our Monarchy hath been reduced under the circumference of one Crown Imperiall , no others having any other substitute Governors crowned : Yet formerly , both Scotland and Ireland had King's distinct , whilst they acknowledged homage to the Crown of England ; as also the isles of Man and Wight . The Kings of Man were first subject to the Kings of Norway , then to the Crown of England , and after to the Kings of Scotland , and since again to the Kings of England . Dominus hujus Insulae Rex vocatur , cui fas est Corona aurea coronari . The Lord of the Isle is called King , and it is lawfull for him to be crowned with a Crown of gold . Henry the second allowed with the same honor Roderig of Conaght to be King , paying a homagery Tribute . The Lord Beauchamp Earl of Warwick , under Henry the sixth , was in the like manner crowned King of the Isle of Wight . Which is enough in this place as to the Dignity of a King. Of the Emperor . THe originall of this Title , as it was long amongst the Romans , denoted onely a Generall of an Army ; and not till the time of Julius Caesar translated to an honorary Title , who being made perpetuall Dictator , took also that of Imperator into his Title ; which hath continued in his Successors untill this day , and became Superior to the Title of King , that before was but substitute under it ; ( being yearly created in January , and ended in September . ) Which great change hapned upon the Victory of Caesar against Pompey , at the Battle of Pharsalia . This Title was onely taken up to supply that of King , which had not long before been thrown out by Brutus , and was supposed by the Usurper to be yet fresh in their memories , and odious amongst them ; and it was long after , before they used the Title of King , though their power were as much , and the Ceremonies and Ensignes of Regality the same ; and the Emperor's Throne at Rome was called Sedile regni . But at last it grew to be as one , and then the Emperor of Rome having subjected under his Jurisdiction many Kingdoms , thought it however a title of more eminence , and so retained it . And though the title has not been so generally appropriated to our Crown , yet our Kings have been styled Emperors , and this Realm of England called an Empire . So have the Kings of Spain and France . But it is more peculiarly allowed or assumed by the Emperors of Germany , who suppose , that they have a right to the government of the whole world . This Empire , after it was divided to Constantinople and Rome ; and then again , that Constantinople had lost it to the Turks ; it was removed to Germany , and in the reign of Otho the third , the Election granted to seven Princes of Germany , the Archbishops of Mentz , Trevers , & Cullen ; the Count Palatine of Rhine , the Duke of Saxony , the Marquesse Brandenburgh , and the King of Bohemia , then called Duke of Bohemia . He hath had also the Superiority allowed him by all Secular Princes ; and whereas other Princes of Regall Authority are crowned with but one Crown , he is with three ; the first of Iron , which he receives of the Bishop of Cullen at Aquisgrane ; the second of Silver , which he receives at Modena from the Bishop of Millan ; the third is of Gold , wherewith he is crowned at Rome by the Pope . And in latter Ages , the title of King of the Romans is given to the Heir , or him that is made , or chosen Heir of the Empire ; and he is crowned , and Jura Regalia given him , though not so absolute , as not to have a dependence on the Empire . See Mr. Selden , part 2. chap , 1. The Ensignes of his Imperiall Dignity are a Crosse , a Launce , and a Sword ; a Scepter , a Mond , and a Crown ; and he is styled 〈◊〉 . The Emperor of Russia is not Crowned , but is adorned with a rich Cap of Purple ; neither is the Greek Sultan , but vested with a mighty rich Tulipant . But there , though the Emperor have no Diadem , yet the Sultanesse is adorned with a Rich Crown or Diadem . Thus have I run through all the degrees of Honor , and with as much brevity as so copious a Theam would allow of ; and for matter of precedency , I think the method I have taken will save me the labour , and I am unwilling to trouble the brains of the Ingenuous Reader with an unnecessary prolixity ; onely as to Offices of State , because I have omitted them altogether , I shall set down their places as in Princely Solemnities they are to be disposed . In which , those of the Crown are to precede all other of the Nobility that are not , except the Blood Royall . As the Lord Chancellor . Lord Treasurer . Lord President of the Privy Councel . Lord Privy Seal . These six also are placed next the Lord Privy Seal thus , according to their state of dignity ; that is , If he be a Baron , to sit above all Barons ; if an Earl , above all Earls . Lord Great Chamberlain of England . Lord High Constable of England . Lord Marshall of England . Lord Admirall of England . Lord Great Master , or Steward of the King's House . Lord Chamberlain of the King's House . So the King 's principall Secretary being a Baron of the Parliament , hath place above all Barons ; and if he be of a higher degree , according to the former rule . The Spirituall Nobility are thus placed . The Archbishop of Canterbury . The Archbishop of York . Bishop of London . Bishop of Durham . Bishop of Winchester . The two first are placed according to ancient dignity , and the three last by act of Parliament , and the rest of the Bishops to take their places according to the seniority of Consecration . Segar . lib. 4. cap. 24. By an Act of Parliament , An. 31. Hen. 8. See the Act in Mr. Selden's Titles of Honor. So all men serving near unto the Prince's Person , either Civil or Military , are allowed a precedency in pari dignitate , and themselves according to his seniority of place . As to their precedency otherwise , Dukes , Marquesses , Earls , Viscounts , and Barons , are to take their places according to the antiquity of their Title , and their Ancestor's creation ; and their Wives accordingly . A Duke's eldest son takes place as a Marquesle , but beneath him ; and his Wife beneath a Marchionesse : and if she be the daughter and heir of a Duke , she shall go before all Duke's eldest sons wives ; and however are equall to a Marchionesse , but to go beneath them ; and the younger sons of Dukes are in equall degree with an Earl , but to go beneath him ; and Marquesles eldest sons , and their Ladies , to take place accordingly . So the eldest son of a Marquesse as an Earl , and the younger as Viscounts ; and their Ladies and sisters to take place accordingly , as before . An Earl's eldest son takes place as a youngest Viscount , and the younger as Barons , their wives and sisters accordingly : Viscounts eldest sons as Barons , and their youngest sons to take place with Barons eldest sons , above Knights Baronets , ( by an Act of King James ) and above all Bannerets , but those made by the King himself under the Stander ; and all Knights Batchelers . Of Women . NOw lest I should be thought malitious to a Sex I owe much honor to , before I conclude , I shall take some short observations more then already I have . And first , that although they are not allowed to sit in Parliament , yet do they enjoy almost all priviledges due to the other Sex. The honorable Feminine Dignities are , Princesse , Dutchesse , Marchionesse , Countesse , Vicountesse , and Baronesse . Which are either by Creation , by Descent , or by Marriage . This honor by Creation , as it is rare amongst us , so it is more rarely taken notice of , though many examples have been ; as Richard the second created Margaret Countesse of Norfolk , into the title of Dutchess of Norfolk , See the Charter in Mr. Selden . Anne Bullen was created Marchionesse of Pembrook by Hen. 8. limited to her , and the heirs males of her body to be begotten , with creation-mony of twenty five pounds per annum , and the ceremony of Mantle and Coronet . The Lady Finch was by King James created Vicountesse of Maidston , to her and her heirs of her body ; with speciall clause , that her heirs male should have a voice in Parliament ; and afterward she was likewise made Countesse of Winchester , &c. Of these Titles thus conferred , Sir John Fern takes no notice , though else he discourses largely enough . By Descent , we have continuall examples : When any daughter of an Earl or Vicount shall continue a Virgin , or marry an Esquire , she shall retain that honor that springs from her father's blood , take place according ; and be saluted by the Title of Lady . Which word Lady came from Hleafdian , or Leafdian , by contraction in the Teutonick , and so Lafdy , and thence Lady , as from Laford , Lord. The word Laf signifying bread , and Dian serve . It seems , from that they called those persons , that for their quality could entertain others , and distribute corn and bread to their neighbours , by that Title . And of old , though in the Empire , and here , the word Dominus was used in generall for salutation amongst men of all sorts , yet Domina onely to persons of honor amongst women ; as the widows of all Tenants in chief , and daughters and heirs of all Knights , &c. The heirs females of any Count or Baron , shall enjoy both the Estate divided , and Titles too , if they be to be divided ; and they shall be enjoyed by their husbands , if they marry , in the right of their wives . So that if there be two , or three , or more sisters , to share the estate , and the honors and dignities inherent be enough , they shall enjoy every one , one ; as in the case of the Earldom of Pembrooke in the time of Edward the third , and now the Lord Darcy of the North , by the same right enjoys the title of the Lord Conyers . But this holds not ; when the title is held by Jus gladii , or Knight's service ; or if the Honor be in any Castle or place onely , it cannot be divided , but falls and dissolves in the Crown , or left to the disposing of the King. And again , if the estate of honor and dignity be not descending to the heirs generall , but entail'd to the heirs male , it cannot be the inheritance of a daughter , as many times it is . But we may understand this the better by that more eminent demonstration of high Offices of the Kingdom , which descending by inheritance on the heirs generall , have been challenged by the husbands of heirs female , in right of their wives , the Descent-male failing ; as in the case of the Duke of Buckingham , in the time of Henry the eighth , challenging the Office of High-Constableship of England . The Office of Lord Steward descended to Blaunch , daughter of Hen. Earl of Lancaster , in whose right Joh. of Gaunt her husband enjoy'd it . So the Office of Earl Marshall descended to the house of Norfolk , by an heir female ; afterward being forfeited by treason , was conferred to the Lords Howards of Arundell . And in this and all such Descents , where there are not dignities enough to allow a partition to all the Sisters , but the Honor shall be undividable ; it shall descend to the eldest , or be disposed by the King to which he please . And for ennobling by birth , these rules are observed : That if a Gentleman , Knight , or Baron , do marry a wife of ignoble parents , she shall enjoy the title , name , and dignity of her husband : For , saith Sir John Fern , let the wife be shining and glorious with the dignities of her husband : Whereas , on the contrary , if a Gentlewoman of blood and Coat-Armor shall marry a Francklin , Yeoman , or the like , that is ignoble , having no Coat-Armor , his condition is no whit advanced by marriage in point of honor ; Although let him be inferior to her whom she shall marry , yet she shall retain the honor , state , and dignity she was born to . But there is this Law for them to walk by too , that is , Si mulier nobilis nupserit ignobili , desinit esse nobilis ; that is , If a Noble-woman marry with an ignoble , her nobility is extinguished ; for she is under the power of her husband , and ought not to be in a condition above him : For example whereof , a case is cited of one Ralph Hayward Esquire , and the Lady Anne Powes , widow of the Lord Powes . But I am of opinion , that ( being onely an acception in Court by the Adversary of the Party ) this is not to be understood , but in case the person such a Noble : woman shall marry , be no Gentleman , and that she hath received the Honor she enjoyed before , from the right of a former husband , and not by descent of Ancestors ; for the words of Judge Coke run thus : Si mulier nobilis nupserit ignobili , desinit esse nobilis ; & eodem modo , quo quidem constituitur , dissolvitur : That is , If a Noble-woman shall marry an ignoble husband , she ceases to be Noble , and in the same manner her honor was constituted it is dissolved . So as by the Laws of the Nation , an Adulteresse forfeiteth her Dower , so also her honor of Nobility , if she commit adultery , either as a wife or widow ; or else having received honor from her deceased husband , and shall so put him out of her mind , as to subject her self to another , by which act she wipeth both the name and memory of the former from her , she hath the sentence of forfeiture against her . So Sir John Fern , in his Glory of Generosity , fol. 62. Yet the Law is thus curious in preserving the memory of Vertue in the honor of its reward , that if a woman of noble blood do marry a Churl or Clown , and have issue by him , she being an heir , that issue shall have liberty of bearing her Coat-Armor . But Sir John Fern says , onely for life , and that on a Lozenge Shield , ( which is the feminine bearing ) with the difference of a Cinque-foile . One note more I think proper in this place , which is , If a French , Spanish , or German woman be married to any Peer of this Realm , or other Gentleman , and be not denizoned ; by the Laws of the Nation , she cannot claim the priviledges or titles of her husband , nor have Dower or Joynter from him . And thus much I think sufficient in this place as to the honor of Women ; and if I have said too little , I wish I could have said more ; if too much , I beg their pardons , but refer my self to the Law. In the next place , I should proceed to the display of Armory , by which the infinite number of persons are distinguisht , by an innumerable variety of different Ensignes , that do illustrate and appropriate their dignity and honor : But , by the way , I have stumbled on another Theam , which though it be not so much concerned in honor , yet the Kingdom is much concerned in it , as a Power ; and though I need not say much , yet I cannot passe by it and say nothing . Of a Parliament . SOme not altogether knowing of that true constitution of a Parliament , may be apt to think , that its Authority is onely Supream in this Nation . But let such understand , that from this Argument , if there were none other , it is disproved ; That nothing can be made greater or more excellent than the thing that makes it , Propter quod unumquodque tale est , illud majus tale . And such creatures as shall aim at a Superiority to their Creator , are to be esteemed like those Angels , that ( by the same spirit ) attempting the same pride , precipitated themselves from everlasting liberty to eternall chains . This great Council did arise from the antient custom of , not onely the Saxons , but all Nations in the world almost , who have had examples of their King 's summoning the chief Peers and Nobles to consult in weighty affairs . Which Councel among the Saxons was called 〈◊〉 , which was a meeting of the chief Prelates and Peers , to deliberate about , and to consent to , what laws the King should enact : and advising in matters of State , giving Judgement upon suits or Complaints in the same Court , as is understood of the time of King Ine , ( of West sexe ) about 711. years after Christ. And again , of King Ethelbert , his ordaining , Decreta Judiciorum juxta exempla Romanorum cum consilio sapientum . And when Edwin King of Northumberland , was perswaded to be a Christian , he consulted , cum Principibus & Consulariis suis. He called to Councell his Princes , or Ealdermen , and Counsellors . And again , King Eldred , An. 948. In festo Nativitatis Beatae Mariae , all the Nobility of the Kingdome , were summoned by an Edict from the King , as well Arch-bishops , Bishops , and Abbots , as all of the rest of the Lords and Chief Counsellors , Thanes and Ealdormen , to come to London , to a 〈◊〉 , or great Councel , to consult about affairs of the whole Kingdome : As Ingulphus his words are . And again , in the time of Edward the Confessor , the Parliament sate at London , Rex & omnes 〈◊〉 Magnates ; In which Parliament , the King attaches Earl Godwin , for that he had kil'd his Brother Alfred , and upon his pleading , and submission , the King refers him to the Judgement of the Court : who a long while debating it , to no purpose : at last , Leofricus Consul Cestriae , probus homo quoad Deum , & Seculum , ( saith the Author ) spake thus ; Earl Godwin , is a gallant Person , and a man next the King , of the best birth in the Land ; and it cannot be denied , but by his Counsell or Design , Alfred was slain ; therefore my opinion is , that he with his son , and all we twelve Earls , that are his friends and kindred , do present our selves humbly before the King , loaden with as much Gold and Silver , as every man can carry betwixt his arms , to offer it up with supplication , for an expiation of the crime . Which being consented unto , and done ; the King considering the reference he had made to the Court , ratified their act , and his pardon . By which , we see their meetings was at the Kings summons ; their power only deliberative in giving legall force , by consenting to what he should think fit to make a Law ; and to advise de arduis Reipub : not that this force given by them , is to be understood otherwise , than that , because , it was enacted by their consent , it was the more binding over them : their consent otherwise , being no whit binding over the Soveraign's will , in the enaction ; for it was his Volumus that made it ; and let their Consultations rise to never so powerfull votes , and results ; be the thing what it would , his Nolumus buried it in oblivion , which custom 〈◊〉 ever continued , as a true Prerogative of the Crown . Nay , avisera le Roy , which is but , The King will consider of it , was enough to throw a Bill out of the House . Nothing enacted by them , though by a generall consent of both Houses of Lords & Commons , being of any force , and that not only before , but after the Commons were brought in ; which I find to be about the time of Edw. 1. his third year of Inauguration , an . Dom. 1273. Who in the 23. year of his reign , confirmed the Magna Charta , made by Henry the third , though Mr. Selden is of opinion , The first summoning of the Commons , was in the 49. year of Henry the third . The style of the Statutes , running after this manner , The King hath Ordained and Established these Acts underwritten , &c. First , The King willeth , and commandeth that , &c. Signifying , the power of enacting to force , and penalty , was derived from the Volumus of the King , not the Vote of the Lords and Commons ; their consent only making it of more vigour against themselves . If it were an Act of Indulgence , or relief to the Common-wealth , it run thus ; Our Lord the King , of his speciall Grace , and for the affection that he bears unto his Prelates , Earls , and Barons , and others of his Realm , hath granted that , &c. And sometimes , Our Soveraign Lord the King hath granted , and commanded at the Instance of the Nobles of this Realm , &c. No mention at all , being made of the consent of the Lords and Commons . Then afterwards , thus they run , Our Lord the King , by the Counsel of his Prelats , Earls , & Barons , & other great men & Nobles of his Kingdom , in his Parliament hath Ordained & 〈◊〉 , &c. An. 33. Edward the first , 1307. and so along in other Statutes , the Commons not at all mentioned in the enacting any Statute ; but as thus , in the beginning of Edward the third , At the request of the Commons of this Realm by their Petition made before him , and his Councel in the Parliament , by the assent of the Prelates , Earls , and Barons , &c. Untill the 23. of this Kings reign , in a Statute of Labourers , I find the Commons not mentioned , and then the power of Ordination given to the Statute , still by the King , as thus , It is ordered by our Lord the King , by the assent of the Prelates , Farls , Barons , and other great men , and all the Commons of the Realm , summoned to this Parliament , &c. And in one Act of the same King , the style runs thus , The King of his own will , without motion of the Great men or Commons , hath granted and Ordained in ease of his people , &c. And then to signifie the Constitution of the Commons in Parliament , See the 37. of Edward the third , where the Statute runs thus ; The King at his Parliament , &c. at the request of the Commons , and by the assent of the Prelates , Dukes , Earls , and Barons , and other Great men there assembled , hath Ordained , &c. and at the prayer of the Commons , &c. In which style , most of the Statutes run untill Henry the eight . And for provision of the choyce of the Commons , in a Statute of the 23. of Hen. 6. is set down the form of Writ , by which they are summoned , where it is also enacted , That the Knights of the Shires for Parliament , hereafter to be chosen , shall be naturall Knights , or otherwise such naturall Esquires , or Gentlemen of the same County , as shall be 〈◊〉 to be Knights . And every Knight that is elected , ought to be a resident of the place , for which he is elected : and every man that is an Elector , ought to have forty shillings of free-hold , within the said County ; and for the security of it , the Sheriffe hath power to put them to an Oath , upon the Evangelist , and the Election ought to be betwixt the hours of eight and nine in the Forenoon , and so of Burgesses . The form of the Writ , is this ; Rex Vic' &c. Salutem , Quia nostri 〈◊〉 pro quibusdam arduis & ur gentibus negotiis nos statum & defensionem regni nostri Angliae & Ecclesiae Anglicanae concernent ' quoddam Parliamentum nostrum Westm. 12. die Novemb. proxim ' futur ' teneri Ordinavimus , & ibidem 〈◊〉 Magnatibus Proceribus domus regni nostri colloquium habere & tractare , Tibi praecipimus firmiter injungentes , quod , facta Proclamatione in proximo tuo post receptionem hujus literis nostris tenend ' die & loco predicto duos milites gladiis cinctis magis idoneos , & discret ' Com' praedict ' &c. & electionem illam in distincte & apertè sigillo tuo , & sub sigillis eorum qui electioni illi 〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 bis in Cancellaria nostra & locum certisices 〈◊〉 . And still , before they came up to the House , they signed Indentures to be true and faithfull to their King and Country , and the service thereof , upon a penalty , even to the last long Parliament of eternall infamy . And in the third , of Queen Elizabeth , it was enacted in full Parliament , for the safety of the Queen's Majesty , her Heirs , and Successors , and the dignity of the Imperiall Crown of England , for the avoiding both of such hurts , perills , dishonor , and inconveniencies , as have before time befallen ; that not only all persons should take the Oath of Supremacy , upon divers penalties in that Act specified ; But also every Knight , Citizen , and Burgesse of the Parliament , should take the said Oath before he entred into the said House , or had any voyce there ; else he should be deemed no Knight , Citizen , or Burgesse for that Parliament , nor have any voyce ; but shall be to all intents , constructions , and purposes , as if he had never been Returned , nor Elected for that Parliament , and shall suffer all pains , and penalties , as if he had presumed to sit in the same without Election , Return , or Authority . And by King James , the Oath of Allegiance was added . Yet , notwithstanding all this limitation upon the Commonalty , Parliaments in England were ever esteemed , since Magna Charta , the greatest liberty of the Subject , none else indeed being dreamt of . And as it is as great a flower of the Crown to summon Parliaments , as foedera , & bellum indicere , to make War and Leagues ; which is so absolute , that it is resolved by all the Judges of the Land , that the King may , before he is Crowned , ( if by descent the Crown be his right ) summon a Parliament , or within age ; as was seen in King Henry the sixth , who summoned divers Parliaments in his 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6. years of his reign , yet was not Crowned till the eighth . He being then essentially King , without any Ceremony or Act , ex post facto ; and Coronation , but a Royall Ornament . So the priviledges of Parliament , and of the Common-wealth by Parliament , are as great : for though we thus see the great Prerogative of a King , yet many things there are , which a King in his own Kingdome cannot do without a Parliament by the Laws , by which he hath bound himself ; as the making any man hereditable , or the altering the Common Law , or Customs of the Realm , though by his absolute authority , he may commit any man to Prison , during his pleasure . Therefore , every Parliament-man , during the time of the Parliament , is priviledged from all disturbance of arrest for debt , or the like , and the servants of any Parliament man , as much as the Kings are . And to this Parliament , for the further security of the good of the Common-wealth , were ever admitted certain Judges of the Land , ( though they had no Vote , which sate on Woolsacks ) that as the Clergy in Spiritualties , so the Judges of the Law , in things of the Law , were to advise and determine , when any difficulty did arise . That what Laws should be Enacted , might be answerable to the Will of God , and not repugnable to the Customs of the Land. And in our latter times , all Acts of Parliament , though made by the King , have this style ; By the consent of Lords and Commons ; notwithstanding the Civill Law , saith , Quod Principi placuit , Legis habet vigorem , The will of the King , is the power of the Law. The End of Honor. The Analysis of Armory . I Have , with as much brevity , as so copious a Theam would admit , run through all the distinctions of Honor. In the next place , I shall with as great a contraction , lay down the emblems of those distinctions , and atchievements due to Nobility , and the reward of virtue , in the methodicall rules of Armory . Bearing of Arms at this time , being the only externall distinction of degrees and qualities , amongst all civill Societies and Common-wealths . From whence we received this custom , is uncertain , if especially , we look to the producing of it into rule and form : As it is from imitation , Sir John Fern is of opinion , that we did borrow it from the Egyptians ; meaning from their Hieroglyphicks . Others will have , that the first institution of these honorable differences , was amongst the Israelites ; but however , it is not much material to this discourse , to be too inquisitive of the originall in that kind , since succession of time hath converted it into another custom ; which may be , for ought I know , in imitation of the Romans : who were accustomed upon triumphs or festivalls , to produce the Statues of their Ancestors , as the pedigree of their Generous race . Which Statues were not , ( as some may imagine ) erected from the voluntary phansie of the parties represented , as is the leaving our Pictures behind us when we dye , to our progeny ; ( so might every phlegmatick , mechanick do : ) but they were such , as were , for some Heroick act , allowed as a publick reward of virtue , which was customary amongst them . And truly , although every good Subject ought to be alwayes prepared alike , to offer his body and mind unto the service of the Common-wealth , without hope or expectation of mercenary reward , honor , or glory ; yet is honor a necessary perquisite to a Crown and Common-wealth , being in it self a true spur to generosity . Out of which respect , the Romans joyned the two Temples of Honor , and Virtue , in such a manner , that no man could enter into that of Honor , without , first passing through the other of Virtue . Sir John Ferns opinion is , that the first that imployed these Ensignes in this nature , was Alexander the Great ; so to distinguish those that had done any memorable Acts , that they might urge an emulation in their fellow Souldiers . It is said of Epaminondas , and Othraydes , that being ready to dye , they wrote their glorious exployts upon their shields themselves ; to give 〈◊〉 to others , to follow their 〈◊〉 when they were dead . 〈◊〉 believes , that Charls the Great was the first that put them into this methodicall order ; which doubtlesse , could not be , if , as Sir John Fern saith also , that Julius Caesar constituted an office of Feciales . But I find it in another Author , to be instituted by Numa , when he made warre upon the Fidenates , a people of Latium . However , it is a generall opinion amongst our most judicious Heralds , that the bearing of Arms , as a badge of honor amongst us , was not till about the time of Henry the third , although many coats have been 〈◊〉 in some Writers , of much longer standing ; as that of Hugh Lupus , Earl of Chester , in the time of the Conqueror , a Woolfs head errased : of Gilbert de Gaunt , Earl of Kime , long before , Barry of 6. Or & Az. over all a bend Gule . Which are 〈◊〉 of by Sir John Fern : But how authentick his Authority might have been to him , to cause his insertion ; or his to others , I know , not ; but I shall be bold to insert one , which may chance carry some weight with it , which I shall raise from a Noble Family in the North ; the family of the Hiltons , ( whose antiquity , ( not only by an ancient pedegree , which I have seen taken out of the Office ; but by the Records of the Tower ) doth produce the noblest descent that I know any Family in England ; ) the pedegree is too large , to be inserted in this place , else I would do it ; however shall extract some notes from it , that may signifie as much . The first , that I find recorded of the Family , was Sir William Hilton , Knight , who marrying the daughter of Sir John Grisly , Knight , ( a Family long since I think extinct ) had issue Adam Hilton : Which Adam living in the time of King Athelstan , gave to the Monastery of Hartlepool , a Pix or Crucifix , which was in weight twenty five ounces of Silver , and caused his Armes to be engraven on it ; Arg. two barres Azure , which are yet seen upon the Gate of Hilton Castle , in the Bishopr . of Dur. where they lived , with a Moses head for Creast ; the Gate and the Chappel , ( which is very stately for its structure and bignesse ) are the only parts remaining of the ancient building . He gave unto the same Monastery , a Cope & Vestment with the Stole ; and the like gift unto the two Monasteries , of Whitby and Gisbrough , with fifty seven ounces of silver to make Censors . They were five descents before the Conquest ; and hath now the nine and twentieth descent surviving . In which line were twenty four Knights , eighteen whereof were in a continued succession . But I leave this nicety to more criticall judgments to determine the thing , having for authority custom sufficient to make it a law within it self , without the derivation of any originall institution . Former ages having esteemed the Laws of Heraldry with as great a veneration as any in the Nation ; as indeed it ought still to be , and more especially in these , and all such times as ours , the Court of Heraldry being not onely the Law-giver to Honor , but the best record of Families and Inheritances , ( though the Gentry of this Land are too dull to know it ) since Coat-Armor hath been hereditary , as it hath ever since the time of Lewis Le-grosse ( according to the account of Sir John Fern and Guillim : ) As by one instance I shall declare ; If a man being an Orphan , and , by such times as ours have been , the Records of what Estate did rightly belong to him , and from his Ancestors , may be burnt , plundered , or otherwise embeselled , and by such spirits , as such times do plentifully afford , have been obtruded from his right , and hath nothing to plead for it , this Office being the just Record of his Pedigree , would produce an Evidence sufficient , though from many generations his misfortunes have descended : More particularly of the Office in another place . As for the progresse of Armory , I have pitcht upon the most methodicall course I could , disposing it into severall divisions and to every division adding its varieties , as in the succeeding Scutcheons will appear ; that I have crowded many severals into one Scutcheon , is to contract the generall into lesser bulk . The form of placing the devices of Arms on Escutcheons , is from the antient Shields ; and therefore called an Escutcheon from the word Scutum . They are also called Coats of Arms from the custome of the Antients , embroidering their Devises on the Coats they wore over their Arms. For the form , or rules , for the shape of Shields , there can be none ; for , any form that a Shield may be devised into , may be taken for the shape of an Escutcheon . And next , for the rules of Blazoning , there are not many , but every thing to be called according to their denomination ; excepting such as by antiquity have continued other names then our vulgar Language doth now give . And again , observing a method from their severall postures and positions in the Shield , which gives a severall tearm , and must be very carefully regarded ; for the adding or diminishing the least punctilio , makes the Coat so much another thing , that should another man own it , he could not be question'd for it . And although Sir John Fern gives this definition of it : Blazonia est recitatio , vel commemoratio alicujus virtutis ; & quempiam , sub quibusdam 〈◊〉 abunde , & vere laudare , aut decorum dicere : Yet our latter times have prescribed a rule of avoiding , in any case of Blazoning , as much as may be , multiplicity of words , especially such as are impertinent : This is also called Martialling a Coat , though that is a word by some esteemed onely to be used when many Coats are disposed or quartered in one Shield . Iterations of words are also to be avoided ; and in Blazoning a Coat , the Field must ever be first exprest , and then the Charge ; and in that what possesseth the greatest part , or nearest the center of the Shield , first . As for the diversity of kinds of Blazon , though by no greater authority than custom of some men , there is three made , By Colours and Metals , pretious Stones , and Planets ; the manner of blazoning thereby , making a distinction betwixt private Gentlemen , Persons ennobled with dignity , and Royall Families . Or Topaz Sol Arg. Pearl Luna Sab. Diamond Saturn Gul Rubie Mars Azure Saphir Jupiter Ver Emrald Venus Purpur 〈◊〉 Mercury Fenne Jacynth Dragon's head Sanguin Sardonix Dragon's tail But this is onely a fantastick humor of our Nation , and for my part I shall avoid it as ridiculous , being no where in the world used but here ; and not here by any judicious Herald . That I insert it , it is to leave it to those humors that will make use of it . For the order , according to the antient rule I have first begun with Metalls , and Colours , to which I have adjoyned the 〈◊〉 the parts of the Escutcheon ; distinction of Families , Bordures , and crooked Lines ; because from them the honorable Ordinaries receive a various form and nomination . Then I have set down in one Escutcheon all the Ordinaries , which are afterward in an order , ( beginning with one particular ) followed in their varieties . Then all dead things in their order , living and verdent , according to their position and posture ; also those that are composed of some kind of Celestiall things , as the Sun , Moon , and Stars ; all kind of Martiall things , or Mechanick ; or the most part of what is usually born in our English Armory . In the 〈◊〉 of Arms , there is by all observed a different value ; as first , that the Metalls are allowed a precedency to Colours ; so also is there by some understood to be more of worth in one Colour then another : Yet , for my part , I am of opinion , that it is so little , as not 〈◊〉 the taking notice of ; onely for other mens opinions sake , I will touch at it . First , of the Metals ; Every judgment will be ready without any argument to give Gold the preheminence . As for the colours ; I think they are thus to be esteemed in point of priority , Sables , Gules , Azure , Verd , Purpure ; and some do introduce Tenne , but it being a bastard colour , is exempted , especially amongst English Armory , onely reserved for abatement of honor , except in one or two examples of things . Thus I have placed the colours , though contrary to the rules of some , as Guillim placeth yellow in the third place , & green in the fourth . Sir John Fern allows Gules the third honor , and placeth Sable in the fifth . Mr. Guillim bringeth in also another colour , called Murrey or Sanguin , but I never saw it used in an English Coat ; onely this and Tenne are appropriated to the abatements of honor , therefore to be set apart from the rest , I think , properly . The next in order is Furrs , which may be of one colour alone , or more than one , which Furrs are supposed to have been the doublings of Mantles . The first of these may seem to go all under the name of Ermins , but they are distinguished by various names , according to their colours ; as if as the first it be white powdred with black , it is Ermin ; if black with white Ermines ; if yellow with black as the Erminoys : if as the fourth black with yellow Pean : if white with black , and one red hair , Erminites . By which it is understood , how precise a man ought to be in the Blazon , or tricking a Coat , when so small a difference , as the colour of one hair , shall make a Coat another thing . The next is called Vayre or Verry , this being of Argent and Azure , is termed Vaire onely ; but if any other colours , then must it be blazoned Verry of such colours ; as for example , Ermin and Gules by the name of Gressey of Darbyshire . The next is Potent Counter-potent , by some Varry-Copy . The colours whereof must be Blazoned . The last is but of two Counters , if called Countercomponed ; but if more , then checky . If any of which be in a Bordure , you must say , A Border purflew of such a furre ; blazoning the furre and the colours . Now by the way , Mr. Guillim doth hint one rule in Blazon concerning the Field ( which is the surface of the Shield ) which ought to be well observed for propriety of speaking ; which is not to say , He beareth a field Or , or Arg. &c. but the field is Or , or Arg. &c. 〈◊〉 else he beareth Or , or Arg. Gules , or the like , &c. These Furres are often born in Bordures also , which are in the next place to be treated of . And here in one Escutcheon have I placed the Bordures ; and in the severall quarters the differences of brethren . Of Bordures , if it be plain , you must say , A Bordure Gules , or the like . If it be charged with Beasts , then it is blazoned , A Bordure Enurney of such Beasts ; if of Birds , Enaluran of such Birds ; if of Flowers , Verdoy ; if of dead things , Entoyre , as of Bezanti , Mullets , or the like . The plain or simple Bordures have also their varieties , according to all their crooked lines . Which I shall shew shortly after . For the charged Bordures , here is exemplified nine distinct . In the first is a Bordure counter-compounded Or and Gules ; the second , a Bordure Purflew of Vayre , the third , quarterly composed of Ermin and Checky , Or , and Azure ; the fourth , Gobbonated , Or , and Sables ; the fifth , Sables Entoyre of eight Bezants ; the sixth , Or , a Bordure Gules , charged with three Bendlets Sables ; the seventh , Azure , Enaleuron of eight Martlets Or ; the eighth , quarterly , the first Gules Enurney of three Lyoncels passant guardant , Or , the second Azure Verdoy of as many Flowerdelis : the third as the second , the fourth as the first : which , with a Field Argent , was the Coat-Armor of Henry Courtney Earl of Devonshire , Marquesse of Exon. This may be blazoned short , by England and France . The ninth is a Bordure Gules , Diapred , Entoyre , Enurney , Enaleuron , and Verdoy . This kind of Bordure may be of any two or other set number of these also . Now to the intent that Coat-Armor might descend to the Posterity with safety , and free from dissention of strife , Distinctions were invented , which I have here set down , to the number Nine . By which differences the Bearer is understood of what degree or line of Consanguinity he is ; if he be of the second , third , or fourth House , and what brother of that House , by charging his Coat with the difference appertaining ; and if a younger brother of a younger House , then by charging the difference of the House with difference of Line , of Fraternity : There being so much care taken for the preserving the honor of the entire Coats , that the eldest son of the first House during the life of his father ( so of the rest ) cannot bear it without his distinction , and , for this reason , hath the Nephew of the first ( the father being dead ) been always preferred before the Uncle of the second , &c. and taketh place before him . By the way also , we are to take notice , that if all the brethren die without issue , and leave sisters behind , as they are co-inheritors of the Lands and Estare , so shall they be of the Coat-Armor also , without any distinction at all , to either of them ; because by them the name of the House cannot be preserved , they being all reckoned but as one Heir . Again , if they be not heirs , they are not admitted to the bearing of the Coat-Armor ; for , saith Sir John Fern , Arma non transeunt ad agnatos & affines . Yet their husbands are admitted to adjoyn the Arms of their wives families in the sinister side of their Escutcheons , with their own ; but if they have none of their own , then not at all . Now there is none of those signs , but are sometimes born in Arms , as Charges of the Coat ; but when they are distinctions , it is easily known by their singularity , either of place , position , or diminutive proportion . A , The Dexter chief . B , The precise middle chief . C , The Sinister chief . D , The Honor point . E , The Fesse point . F , TheNombril point . G , The Dexter Base . H , The precise middle Base . I , The Sinister Base . 1 , Invecked . 2 , Ingrayled . 3 , Wavy . 4 , Nebule . 5 , Embattaild or Crenelle 6 , Indented 7 , Dancette Of these lines , the two first differ onely in this , that the points of the ingrailed line are turned into the field , and the other contrary into the ordinary , that those lines do make . The two last are both one secundùm quale , onely differing secundùm quantum ; the one being onely wider and deeper then the other . And when any of these Ordinaries are drawn withthese lines , the Blazoner is to say , A Bend , Chief , Pale , or what it is ; Invecked , Ingrayled , Wavy , or the like : But if plain , then onely to name the Ordinary with its colours , according to the following examples . 1 , A Crosse. 2 , A Chief , 3 , A Pale . 4 , A Bend. 5 , a Fesse . 6 , An Inescutcheon . 7 , A Cheveron . 8 , A Saltyr . 9 , A Barre . The last of which Ordinaries may easily be mistaken for the same , or at least a diminutive of the fifth ; but it is not : and they are distinguished by the space they possesse in the field , and also by this difference , the Barre hath liberty all over the field with its diminutions ; the Fesse onely one proper place . These Ordinaries according to Leigh do possesse these proportions of the field . Crosse , containeth uncharged the fifth part , but charged the third ; the Chief , the third part , the Pale , the third part , the Bend , the fifth uncharged , but charged the third ; the Fesse , the third part , the Innescut . the fifth part , the Chever , the fifth part , the Saltyr , the fifth uncharged , but charged the third ; the Barre , the fifth part . Of these Ordinaries , some have their diminutives , as the Barre a Closset , a Barralet ; the Bend both Dexter and Sinister , the Dexter hath a Bendlet , Garter , single and double Cottises , and a Ribbon ; the Sinister Bend , a Scarp , and a 〈◊〉 ; a Cheveron hath its Cheveronels . And here now I shall desire to be excused for digressing from the method of other men , especially Mr. Guillim ; and first to take notice of some other forms near relating to the Ordinaries for their shape and proportion , on which are oftentimes rewards and additions of Honor placed in Coats ; as also the abatements of Honor for misdemeanor , and dishonorable actions , that afterwards I may not have any thing to interrupt a methodicall proceeding in the rest . The first of which are those , on which most commonly additions are given , which are these . The first is a Bordure , spoken of before . The second , a Quarter . The third , a Canton . The fourth , a Gyron . The fifth , a Pile . The sixth , two Flasques . The seventh , two Flanches . The eighth , two Voyders ; which , saith Leigh , is the way of bearing a reward given to a Woman . The ninth is Ernoin , an Inescutcheon Gules , named also a Scutcheon of Pretence . On any of these may an addition of Honor be placed , according to the pleasure of the Prince , or the fancy of the Herald , that is left to the designing . Which reward remains to the posterity of the Atchiever , and none of the descendants of his family , but his own line may bear it . In which manner I have seen the Arms of a Kingdom given to a private Subject , nay , and sometimes to a Stranger , as in the example of Sir Henry St. George Norroy King of Arms , who upon an Embassie into Sweden , was honored by the King of the Swethes with the addition of the Arms of Swethen in a Canton . The Marquesse of Exeter gave the Arms of England in a Bordure , as in the Escutcheon of Bordures is seen in the eighth quarter , being given him by Henry the eighth . Now the Laws of honor having by a continued succession of time maintained and refined these rules of Nobility , for the encouragement of brave and generous spirits : So , foreseeing the pronenesse of all men , being apter to fall and decline from the vertues and bravenesse of their Ancestors , and to bury the honor of the deceased Purchasers in the dust , than to improve the Talent of Renown Time hath entrusted them with ; as a correction to such dunghill-spirits , there is provided a method of degrading them from , or giving diminutions of disgrace to the Arms of such : As the example of the succeeding Escutcheon demonstrates . The first , according to Mr. Guillim's rules , is a Delph Tenne , due to him that revoketh a Challenge . The second is an Inescutcheon reversed Sanguin , for deflowring a Maid or Widow . The third is a point Dexter , for too much boasting his Martiall acts . The fourth , a point in point , Sanguin , due to a Coward . The fifth , a point Champion Tenne , to him that killeth his prisoner . The sixth , two Gussets Sanguine for Adultery . The seventh , a gore sinister Tenne , for him that flies from his Colours . The eighth , a point plain Sanguine , for telling lies to a Soveraign or Generall . The ninth , the whole Coat of Arms reversed , and proper onely to a Traitor . But there is another stricter punishment also for Treason , as Sir John Fern , Sir William Segar , and the Civil Laws relate , which is , that though he have many sons then living , his Arms are for ever taken away , unlesse by some extraordinary service his successors do regain the honour of them , and wipe away the stain ; for , Eorum memoria destrui debet , says the Law. And in the same manner are those other stains of abatement so rivetted to their Shield ; when once by the Soveraign authority placed there , that neither the immediate possessors , nor succeeding owners , with their greatest force , or the all-corroding teeth of time are able to tear it away ; but by vertuous demeanor to ingratiate the same hand , that put it on , to wipe it off . Pitty it is those Rules have not been exactly observed in our latter Ages ; such a severity would doubtlesse be a means to affrighten many , that are enclined to these abominable enormities , to apply themselves ingenuously to a gentle obedience , and plausible demeanor : For , if not for Loyalty , Honor , or the Punishment of other Laws ; yet , rather then leave so great a proclamation of their 〈◊〉 , to be both a plague upon their fames , and a leprosie on their posterity , they would cautiously flye from such senslesse carelessenesse . Now having thus laid down the 〈◊〉 as well as the additions of Honor , I am brought by my Method to the main body of this generall work of Armory , which is the variety of bearing the Ordinaries , and after the accidents more common ; as of Birds , Beasts , Fishes , Plants , Mechanicall things , &c. And for the first ( as in my estimation very reasonably ) the most honorable , I begin with the Crosse , and its various kinds of bearings , being more numerous by much than any of the other Ordinaries . This hath its position in the greatest and most eminent parts of the Shield ; and therefore it is much to me , that Mr Guillim , and others , should place it last of all the Ordinaries . The Crosse , if uncharged , possesseth the fifth part of the Field ; but , if charged , the third . The varieties I have placed in two Shields , as first in this . In the first quarter is Azure , a plain Crosse Or , the Coat of the Sheltons of Norfolk . The second is Gules , a Crosse crossed upon three Grees Or , by the name of Jones in Denbyshire . The third , Or , a 〈◊〉 pattec Sables , fimbriated Gules . The fourth Arg. a Crosse Wavy voided Sable , by the name of Duckenfield in Devonshire . The fifth , 〈◊〉 , a Crosse Moline pierced Lozenge , Or , which was the Coat-Armour of Molaneux of 〈◊〉 . This piercing a Crosse , is alwayes known from a charge on it , by the colour of it ; for if it be the same with the Field , then it is supposed the appearance of the field through it ; and is sometimes square , sometimes round , and sometimes Lozenge-ways ; but if it be not the colour of the Field , then it is a Charge , and receives another Blazon , as hereafter will appear . The sixth example is Azure , a Crosse patonce Or , which Leigh saith , was the Arms of King Edgbert : this differeth but little from the Crosse Flory , Flurry , or Fleury ; as by the next you see . The seventh is Arg. a Crosse Flurry Gules . The eighth Gules , a Crosse Avelane Or. The ninth Azure , a Crosse potten fitched Or , the Coat Armour of Ethelbert , King of the West-Saxons , as saith Guillim . The second Escut cheon represents , as many as I have exprest in the first , and those as strange . The first is a Crosse formy flory . The second is a Crosse bottony . The third a Crosse couped Or , charged with a pellet in the fesse point or center . And by these next examples is seen , that the Crosse is many times divided into more then two parts , and sometimes all over the Field , as in this fourth , which is Or , a Crosse triparted flurry Gules . The fifth Azure , a Crosse double-parted Arg. The sixth is quarterly , Gules and Vert , four Pheons Arg. in Crosse , their points meeting in fesse . By which example may be seen , that many times , severall things are born formed into this , or any other Ordinary . The seventh is Azure , a Crosse resarcelled Or. Which , saith Sir John Fern , is as it were sewed together again , after a voiding . The eighth is Gules , a Crosse crossed Or : pierced all over the Field , which is the Arms of the Earl of Tholouz . The last is Argent , a Crosse voided Couped Sables , by the name of Woodnoth . Sometimes one Crosse is charged with another , which differeth from a Crosse Fimbriated , thus : The sise of the Frimbria , is much narrower then that appearance of the Crosse , that is surmounted of another , ( as Mr. Guillim saith ; ) but Sir John Fern saith , it is not a Crosse fimbriated , 〈◊〉 when the uppermost is also charged . The next of these Ordinaries to be exemplified , is the Chief , which is variously born 〈◊〉 thus . The first Gule , a chief Argent by the name of Worksley . The second Tenne , a chief Shapernette Ermine . The third Vert , a chief crenelle Argent , charged with a file Azure . The fourth Gules , a chief Argent , surmounted of another , Or : which , saith Sir John Fern , is a double addition of Honor. The fifth Gules , or a chief Azure , filleted in the nether part Argent : Now , sometimes this Ordinary is Honoured with an augmentation , which , very rarely , are any of the rest ; as in the next example . The sixth is Or , two barres Azure , a chief quarterly Azure and Gules , on the first two Flowerdelys Or , on the second , one Lyon Passant guardant of the last ; the third as the second , the fourth as the first , which is the Coat Armour of the Earls of Rutland . And this is also sometimes charged with other Ordinaries , as in this seventh example , which is Barry of six per pale ; in a chief paly of six per fesse , all counter-changed , Or & Azure , between two Cantons gyronny of the first and second ; an Inescutcheon Argent joyning to the chief . The eighth is Sables , a bend , and chief Or. The last is Gules , two barres and a chief indented Or ; by which is seen that this Ordinary is sometimes also formed of the crooked lines ; as all the rest are . The pale doth not only vary its form , as the rest with crooked lines , but hath its diminutives too ; as in this example . The first is Gules a pale Or ; the Coat Armour of the Lord Hinkley . The second Azure a pallet Argent , which possesseth the half part of a pale . The third is Or , an endorse Gules , which is the fourth part of a pale . The fourth is Argent , three pallets Wavy 〈◊〉 . The fifth Azure a pale radiant rayone Or. The sixth Argent , three pallet Gules , in a chief Azure , a barrulet dancettee Or. The seventh is Argent , on a pale Sable , three crosse pattees Or , within a bordure engrayled of the second , by the name of Crowch . The eighth paly of six Argent & Azure , fretted with a barrulet in fesse Gules a chief and base of the same . The ninth Argent on a pallet Sable a fesse Gules , and two barrulets of the second , quarterly pierced of the first . The bend is an Ordinary drawn of two lines from the dexter to the sinister base ; and sometimes from the sinister chief to the dexter base ; and have both their diminutions , and are varied as the rest , as oft as the variety of crooked lines can do it . The first is Argent , a bend engrayled Sables , by the Lord Fitzwater , Earl of Sussex . The second is Argent , a bendlet Gules , which possesseth half the bend , and according to the rule of some , should begin its upper line in the precise corner of the dexter chief , whereas the bend begins above it , as much as below it . The third is Or , a garter Gules , which ought to contain but the third part of the bend , and derive its lines as the bend doth . The fourth is Gules , a Cost , or cottis Or ; which containeth the fourth part of a bend . The fifth is Or , a ribbon Gules ; this containeth but the eighth part of a bend , and is couped at the ends . The sixth is Argent , a bend sinister Vert , this bend meeting in the same field with the dexter bend , seems to make a Saltyre ; but they do not : and care must be taken in the blazon of it , to begin first with that which lies next the 〈◊〉 , and then to say , The one surmounted of 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 other . The divisions of this , are first a Scrape , as in the seventh , which is Argent a Scarpe Azure . The eighth is Or , a battune Gules , which is most commonly couped at each end as the Ribbon is , which is commonly the stain of a 〈◊〉 , when he is admitted the bearing the 〈◊〉 Armour of his Father's line : but it is not to 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 then in mettle , but by Bastards of 〈◊〉 . 〈◊〉 last , ( which for its variety , I have inserted as rare ) is Azure a bend double dancette Argent , by the name of Lorks . If there be more then one of these Ordinaries in a Coat , they are to be blazoned thus ; if two bendlets , if more , bendy of so many as it is ; and sometimes 〈◊〉 a bend with its diminutives meet in one field , as in this of Sir Edmund Boyers of Camberwel in Surrey , which is Or , a bend vayre between two Cottizes Gules . And sometimes these Cottizes are born without any bend between them , as in the example empald of John Marsham of Hornsplace in the County of Kent Esquire , which is Or , a Lyon passant in bend Gules betwixt two bendlets Azure . And this manner of empaling , is a way that a man joyns his Wife's coat with his ; and I wish these Coats might so come together . Now I proceed to the Fesse , according to my promised method . And first in its place and genuine nature , as in the first quarter here , which is Verry of Or , and Vert , a fesse Gules by the name of Duffield . The fecond is Or , a fesse dancette Sables , the proper Coat of Sir Thomas Vavasor . The third Argent , a Fesse and Canton Gules , by the name of Woodvile . The fourth Or , a fesse between two Cheverons Sables , by the name of Lisle . The fifth , by the name of Blyton , is Gules , a fesse Sable & Argent indented , par fesse point in point , between three Owls head errased of the third . The sixth is Vert , on a fesse Argent , a barre Sable charged with four Cheverons between three Spades of the second . The seventh Sable a fesse Wavy Argent , between two Stars of the second , given to that honorable Person Sir Francis Duke , by Queen Elizabeth , for his service at Sea. The eighth is Sables , a fesse 〈◊〉 at each end Or , which 〈◊〉 I have very rarely seen . The ninth Or , a fesse Nebule betwixt three trefoyls slipt Gules . Thus you see a variety of bearing this Ordinary : yet it shews not any diminutives , 〈◊〉 changeth its place in the field ; which two only properties belong to the barre , and it only so differs from this in specie . As for the Escutcheon born as an Ordinary , I find very little variety , only sometimes it is called an Inescutcheon , which is when thus born , which is Ermin an Inescutcheon Gules , by the name of Hulgrave . And sometimes an Escutcheon , as when more then one is in the field , as thus in the second which is Argent , three Escutcheons Sable , by Sir John Loudham of Suffolk . Sometimes these are charged only with augmentations of honor , and sometimes the field is charged with other Ordinaries promiscuously with these as in the third , which is Or , a barruler between two barres gemels , Gules , three Escutcheons vayre , by the name of Gamolle . And sometimes these Escutcheons are charged also as in the last , which is Or , three Escutcheons barry of six vayre and Gules . The Cheveron containeth the fifth part of the field , and is not so confined to one place , but may be born in another , and also more then one in a field , but if above two , they are called Cheveronels : Guillim . The first example is 〈◊〉 , a Cheveron Gules , belonging to the Lord 's Staffords . The second is Or , a Cheveron in chief Azure . There are divers other accidents , incident to this Ordinary , as transposition , coupings , voidings , and reversing , besides it hath its diminutives , for example , the third is Ermin , a Cheveron cooped Sable , by the name of Jones . The fourth is Azure , a Cheveron engrayled , voided Or , by the name of Dudley . The fifth Argent , a Cheveronel Vert : of which there can be but three in a field . The sixth is Vert , a couple close Argent , which containeth the fourth part of a Cheveron , and is not born but by payres , except a Cheveron be between . The seventh is Sables , a Cheveron Rompe Or , betwixt three Mullets by the name of Sault . The eighth is Azure , three Cheveronels brased in the base of the Escutcheon , and a chief Or , by the name of Fitz-hugh . The ninth is Gules , three Cheveronels reversed Or. The Saltyre , is an Ordinary formed of a fourfold line , two from the dexter chief , extending towards the sinister base , and two towards the dexter base from the sinister chief , meeting in fesse by couples in acute angles ; in the nature of that which we usually call , a Saint Andrews Crosse. The first is Argent , a Saltyre Gules , by the ancient and Noble Family of the Gerrards of Lancashire . The second is Azure , a Saltyre quarterly quarter'd Or , & Argent , the Arms of the Episcopall Sea of Bath and Wells . The third is Gules , a Saltyre Or , surmounted of another Vert , by the name of Andrews . The fourth is Sables , a Saltyre Argent , in the fesse point an Inescutcheon Or , charged with a Crosse Gules ; and this , though we should allow colour upon colour , and metall upon metall , to be false Herauldry , yet is good : the last being the charge of a distinct Scutcheon , it being of pretence , and of another family . The last of these Ordinaries is the Barre , which though it is allowed the Honor of a particular Ordinary , yet in my opinion , is but a diminutive of the Fesse , however differs only in this , that it hath the liberty of the field , and taketh place any where which the Fesse cannot : this also hath its diminutives , being subdivided into a closette and barrulet . First of the barre , as in the first quarter of this Scutcheon , Azure three barres Wavy 〈◊〉 by the name of 〈◊〉 . The second Argent , three Barres and a Canton Gules , by the name of Fuller . The third Gules , two Barres and a Chief indented , O , by the name of Hare . The fourth is Or , a closset Sanguine ; this is the one 〈◊〉 of the barre . The fifth is Sables , a Barrulet Argent ; this containeth the one fourth part of the Barre . The sixth beareth Gules on a Cheveron Arg. three Barres gemmels Sables ; these are called Gemmells when they are placed in couples at a near distance , and more than two in the field in even number . The seventh is Ermin , three Barres couped Gules , charged with six Escollups shells , or three in the first , two in the second , and one in the last ; by the name of Sabridge Court. The eighth is barry of ten Or , and Azure in a Canton Gules , a Chaplet Argent , by the name of Holms of 〈◊〉 . The ninth is Barry of six on a Chief , between two 〈◊〉 party per bend , dexter and sinister two pallets , Or and Azure , over all an Inescutcheon Arg. which was the 〈◊〉 of Mortimer Earl of March. Thus have I run through all the Ordinaries , with their varieties of Barring in their due order , according to their usuall terms of proper Blazonry . In the next I shall shew some other forms of Charges , framed of such like lines in the Escutcheons ; and then proceed to shew 〈◊〉 all the parting 's & counterchanges . First then , as in this shield there is Or , an Orle Azure , by the name of Bartram Lord of Bothall . The second is Or , an Orle of three pieces 〈◊〉 . The third Argent , an Orle engrayled on the inner side Gules . The fourth is Or , a double Tressure Flory , 〈◊〉 . The fifth is Sables a Fret Or : by the Lord Mautravers , now quartered by the Earl of Arundel . The sixth Vert , 〈◊〉 Or , this with the distinction of a second Brother in a third House , is the Coat-Armor of Sir George Whitmore , late Lord Mayor of London . In the three last are a 〈◊〉 , a Lozenge , and a Mascle . The Pile is an honorable bearing , though not to be reckoned among the Ordinaries , as some would have it : this hath divers ways of bearing , and is free to any place of the field ; but its property is to issue from the middle chief , and extend with an acute angle almost to the middle base , and then is termed plainly a Pile : but if otherwise , you are to distinguish , as this 〈◊〉 quarterings will demonstrate . The first , Argent , a pile Gules ; this belonged to Sir John Candoys in the time of Edward the third . The second is Or , three piles meeting near in the base of the Escutcheon Azure , by Sir George Brian . The third is Argent , three piles , one issuing out of the chief between two other transposed Sables , by the name of Huls . The fourth is Argent , a triple pile flory on the tops , issuing out of the sinister base in bend , Sables , by the name of Wroton . The fifth is Argent , a pile in bend , issuing out of the dexter chief in pale Sables , Cottised engrayled Argent . And here in the same Scutcheon , for their nearnesse of form , have I inserted the Gyron with its varieties . As in the sixth Gules , a Gyron issuing out of the dexter point Or. The seventh is Argent ; two Gyrons Gules . These do always meet in 〈◊〉 with their points ; and therefore 〈◊〉 is needlesse to name the place , onely naming their number and colour . The eighth is Gyrony of eight pieces , Or , and Azure , a Canton Ermin by the name of Octon . The last is Gyrony of twelve Argent and Sables , and so are they always to be blazoned , Gyrony of so many , if they be more then two . These , I must confesse , should properly have been placed among the counter-changes . But my digression is excusable , since it is so near concerned , as the single Gyron belonging properly to that place ; and then that the counter-changes are so near in a concordancy , as the next discourse must bring them in ; which is , to describe the partitions and counter-changes , according to the disposition of every Ordinary ; and first of the partitions , as in the first next example . The first in this example is party per Crosse , Arg. and Gules , by Sir Henry Cock of Hertfordshire ; and here is to be noted , that though the mettle be more honorable , yet if the colour possesse the dexter part , or chiefest part of the Field , that is first to be named . And , by the way , I must here observe , that some will have this to be blazoned quarterly ; but certainly improperly , unlesse the quarters were charged ; for why should this Ordinary above all the rest be denyed the priviledge of partition , which all have , but the chief , that in its propriety is formed but of one line ? The second quarter bears party per pale , a bend counter-changed Argent and Gules , by Sir Geofry Chaucer . The third party per bend , Or , and Vert , by the name of Hawly . The fourth party per Cheveron , Sables , and Argent , by the name of Aston . The fifth party per Fesse , Or , and Azure . The sixth party per Pile , in point Or , and Sables . Now the difference betwixt this and the Pile alone , is , that the lines meet at the very base of the Escutcheon , and others short ; and sometimes this is changed by a Reverse , as in the next example , which is The seventh party per pile reversed , Or , Gules , and Sables , which is very rare for the distinction of the field into three colours , as the last is also . The eighth is party per Saltyre Ermine and Gules . The ninth is party per pale and base , Gules , Argent , and Sable . The counter-changes are thus , first , party per pale Or , and Gules , three roundalls counterchanged . The second is party per Cheveron unde , three Panthers bends erased , counter-changed Sab. and Or ; by the name of Smith of Norfolk . The third is pally of six , a bend-pally , as many all counter-changed , Argent and Gules ; which is a quartering of that honorable Gentleman the Lord Strafford . The fourth is barry of six party per pale indented , Argent and Gules counter-changed . The fifth is barry pily of eight pieces Gules , and Or , by the name of Holland . The sixth is paly-bendy , Or and Sables . The seventh is paly of six Argent , and Gules on a chief as the field as many crescents all counter-changed . The eighth is barry of six , Argent and Sables , indented one in the other . The ninth is barry bendy , Arg. and Sables . Thus I have run through all the bearings of the Ordinaries , both plain , and in their variety , together with the partitions and counter-changes ; I shall now as concisely lay down all the Ordinary bearings , as well of Natural and Celestial things , as all Sublunaries of Beasts , Birds , Fishes , Vegetables , and Artificials , in the best method I can , according to the Blazon of Leigh , 〈◊〉 , Guillim , and others , the best I could consult in this study . Of Celestialls . As for Celestialls , I shall skip over some of them , as Angells , Cherubims , and the like , because they are obvious enough to every man's judgment , when ever they are met with ; as some of these examples are also . The first of these quarterings shews the example of Gules an Increscent Or , by the name of Descus . The second Azure , the Sun in its full glory , by the name of St. Cleere . The third is Azure the Moon decrescent proper , where the difference from the first is , from the contrary position of them , which is the same in the Firmament : And by this rule , any man at the first sight may know in what state the Moon is , though he never saw an Almanack . The fourth is Azure , a Moon in her complement proper . The fifth Or , the Sun eclipsed Sables . The sixth is Argent , the Moon in her Eclipse Sables . The seventh Azure , a Ray of the Sun issuing out of the dexter corner of the Escutcheon bend-wayes proper ; by the name of Aldham . The eighth is Gules a chief Argent , at the lower part thereof , the Rayes of the Sun issuing out of a Clowd proper ; by the name of Lesone of Northamptonshire . The ninth is Azure a Comet Or , streaming proper . And unto these I have added one more Escutcheon of the like bearings , because of the rareness of them . The first is Azure , Jupiters Thunderbolt in Pale Or , enflamed at both ends proper , shafted Saltyre-wayes , and winged Fesse-wayes , Argent . The second Argent , a Rain-bowe proper , issuing out of two peteet clowds in fesse Azure . The third Gules a chief Argent , over all an Escarbuncle of eight staves-pommette and Florette Or ; which , saith Guillim , was the Coat-Armor of the Earls of Anjou , of whom was Geoffry Plantagenet . The fourth is Or , six fire-brands , enflamed proper . The fifth Sables , a bend Or between six Fountains proper , by the Lord Sturton . The sixth Argent , a Cheveron Sables , between three flames of fire proper . The seventh is Sables , a Star of eight points Or , between two Flanches Ermin , and a Canton of Ulster ; by Sir John Hubbart of Norfolk . The eighth party per bend Crenelle , pointed the one in the other Argent & Azure , four Crescents , by couples enterlaced , counterchanged . The ninth Ermin on a chief Sab. three Crescents , arg . Of Beasts . NExt of Beafts , as , in my opinion , the most proper to order , as the more noble creatures ; though , I confesse , it is contrary to Mr. Guillims Method . And of those , in the first place Lions , as the principall of them ; which are diversly born , and from their severall postures receive a severall character of blazoning , which is cautiously to be observed , as well as in other things ; and it is not difficult for any indifferent genius , without much discourse ; which would but make up a tedious prolixity to little or no purpose ; when Verbum sapienti sat est , is a Proverb in every man's mouth . The first example is of Azure , a Lion Rampant , Argent , being the Coat-Armor of Roger de Montealto , who was a Benefactor to Westminster-Abbey . The second is Or , a Lion Sayliant Gules . The third is Gules a Lion passant Guardant Or , which being the Coat-Armor of the Dukes of Aquitane , was joyned with the Coat of the Kings of England , by the 〈◊〉 of Henry the second , being before two Lions , the posture and colours one ; then indeed called Leopards , as they are most properly so called , ( where they are not of Royall bearing ) if they be more then one in a field , and Guardant , as 〈◊〉 would have it : This same single Lion passant guardant , onely the colours contrary , as Or , a Lion passant guardant , Gules , says the Welch petegree , was the Coat-Armor of Roderick the great Prince of Wales , in the year 843. By which account , Coat-Armor hath gained a great Antiquity . The fourth example is of Lions passant , and not guardant , which is Gules , two barres Ermin in chief , a Lion passant party per pal Or , & Argent , by the name of Hill of Norfolk . The fifth is Gules , a Lion Seiant Argent . The sixth is Or , a Lion Couchant . Gul. The seventh is Azure , a Lion Dormant , Or. The eighth is Or , a Lion Rampant regarding Coward , Sables . The last is Gules , a tri-corporated Lion issuing out of three corners of the field , and meeting under one head in fesse Or ; which was the Coat-Armor of Edward Crouchback Earl of Lancaster . Lions are sometimes with the tail elevated over the head , sometimes with the tail forked , and sometimes you shall meet with Demy-Lions , which is half Lions passant and Rampant , and sometimes heads , erased or couped ; but if Cabossed , then they are ever 〈◊〉 Leopards heads , as in these examples . The first Azure on a chief Or , a Demy-Lion Rampant issuant out Gules , languid and armed of the first , by the name of Markham . The second is Azure , three Demy-Lions passant guardant , Or , languid , and armed Gules , by the name of Hammon of Acris in Kent . Now the French are so severe , that they will not allow the tearms of Lion to any , either Whole or Demy , that are guardant ; but , I think , without reason . The third is Or , out of the midst of a Fesse , Sable , a Demy-Lion Rampant Naissant Gules languid and armed , Azure . Where it is proper to take notice , that if it be armed or languid by any other colour than the body , unlesse Gules , it is a blemish to it ; but Gules , signifying blood , addes to it . So it is an abatement if it be without tongue , teeth , or claws . The fourth is Verry , Argent & Azure , on a pale Gules , three Leopards heads Or , by the name of Ockould . The fifth is Azure , three Leopards heads cooped Or. This Coat is in the Walk under Lincolns Inne Chappel , and I think is very rare . The sixth is Azure a Cheveron , betwixt three Lions he ids erased Ermin , crowned Or ; the Coat-Armor of 〈◊〉 worthy Benefactor of Pauls , Sir Paul Pindar . The seventh is Sables , three Lions tails erased Argent , by the name of Cork . The eighth is Gules , a Cheveron betwixt three Lions paws erected and erased within a bordure Argent , in a chief of the second , an Eagle displayed Sables , by the name of Brown. The ninth is Sables , two Lions paws , one issuing out of the Dexter , the other out of the Sinister point of the Escutcheon in Cheveron , Arg. armed Gules , by the name of Frampton . There is one rule more that hath been by some , both antient and modern Heralds , observed , concerning the blazoning of Lions ; which is , That if above one Lion be in a field , they must be termed Lyoncels , that is , young-Lyons ; because the spirit of a Lyon is full of Majesty , and admits no co-partnership in one Territory . But they make two exceptions to this generall rule , that is , When any Ordinary parts them ; and , When it is the Coat of a Monarch ; to which last I must concede , from his argument which is propter Regiae Maejestatis dignitatem . But for the former , it cannot alwayes hold according to their own argument , without an absurd contradiction . As for example ; Mr. Guillim blazons a Coat thus , A fesse Wavy betwixt three Lyons passant , whereof three is but one barred from the other . But I must be forc't to beg pardon , and to accuse him again , and by it lay down one exception more ; in the Coat of Wickombe he blazons thus , Two Lyoncels rampant combant . When as in ordinary reason , according to his own argument too , being in a fighting posture , they deserve the name of Lyons . As I should be bold to blazon my own Coat , being the same , only the colours contrarily disposed , as Azure , two Lyons Combatant Or , languid and armed Gules . I confesse , where I find them indorsed , as in that which he believes to have been the Arms of Achilles at the siege of Troy , I think it much reason to blazon them Lyoncels . For other examples of beasts , I shall only adde one more , which is , First Argent , 〈◊〉 a Mount proper a Stagge lodged Gules , by the name of Hart-hill . The second Arg. a Stagge tripping armed and unguled Or , by the name of Holms . The third is Vert a Stagge stripping proper Or , by the name of Gilsland . The fourth is Argent , an Unicorn seiant Sab. armed and unguled Or , by the name of Harling . The fifth Azure , a Stagge at gaze Gules . The sixth is Vert , a fesse between three Bucks , in full course Or , by the name of Robertson . The seventh is Argent a Lyons head erased Gules , by the name of Gowis : this is the most honorable bearing of the heads or limbs , because it is said to be torn off from the body . The eight is Gules , three Unicorns heads couped , Argent . The last is Gules , a Cheveron betwixt three Bulls heads Cabossed Argent , armed Or ; by the name of Baynham . Of Birds . THe second sort of the most Noble sensitives are Foules of the Ayr : all which I shall comprise in a very short example . Only , by the way , this note is to be observed ; that as I have disposed them all into an order ; so are they in degrees of excellency in Armory . And again when any quick things are born , it is most commendable when born in the most generous and noble action , or the most proper to its nature . Of these the first is Sables a Swan with her wings expansed Arg. membred Or , within a bordure engrayled of the same , by the name of Moore . The second is Ermin an Eagle displayed , Gules , armed Or. The third is Sables , a Goshawke , Arg. perching upon a stock fixed in the base point of the shield , of the second , armed Jessed , and belled Or. The fourth is Gules , a Pelican in her nest with wings displayed feeding her young Or , vulned proper , by the name of Carn of Wenny in Glamor ganshlre . The fifth is arg . three Peacoks in their pride proper , by the name of Pawne . The sixth is arg . a Heron volant in fesse , azure , membred , Or , between three Escoliops shels , Sables . The seventh is Gules , three Cocks argent , Armed , Crested , and Jellopped Or. This was the Coat Armor of that reverend Dr. Cocks , Bishop of Ely , in Queen Maries , and Queen Elizabeths times . The eighth is Gules , two wings inverted and conjoyned Or. The last is Or , on a bend Sables , three Estridge feathers , passing through as many escrowls of the first . Many other Birds , as well as Beasts , are used in the infinite variety of Coat Armour , but by the observance of these examples they will be all understood . Of Fishes . MR. Leigh observes this general rule in blazoning of Fishes , That all Fishes that are born feeding should be 〈◊〉 in blazon Vorant , or devouring : because they swallow without chewing ; and that what they devour should be named , These are , as Beasts , born in divers postures ; as Nayant , which is swimming upright , embowed , extended , endorsed , trianguled , and fretted , &c. As in this following demonstration . The first is Argent three Eeles Nayant in pale Sables , by the name of Ellis . The second is Sables , three Salmons hauriant Argent , by the name of Salmon . The third is Azure , a Dolphin Nayant , embowed , Argent , by the name of Fitz-James . The fourth Argent , two Barbels Hauriant , respecting each other by the name of 〈◊〉 . The fifth Gules , two Pikes hauria ntendorsed , Or. The sixth three Trouts fretted in triangle Arg. by the name of Troutback . The seventh is Arg. two Lobsters clawes in Saltyre , the dexter surmounted of the sinister Gules , by the name Tregarthick . The eighth is Arg. a Cheveron engrayled , 〈◊〉 , betwixt thre Crevices , Gules . The ninth is Sables , a fesse engrayled betwixt three Welkes , Or , by the name of shelly . Thus are all manner of Shell-fishes as well as others . And some times , Reptibles , and Insects , all manner of Flyes and Grashoppers ; But their blazon is obvious enough to every mans judgement , that can distinguish one from another when he sees them , therefore it would be but an unnecessary intrusion in this place . Vegetables . I Shall not need here , I hope , to run over all parts of Philosophy , and Diviniry , and to tell what Trees are , and their Natures ; For as they are not discourses pertinent to this place ; so Mr Guillim , as well as my self might have 〈◊〉 every ingenious man as knowing as himself in it ; or at least 〈◊〉 : And to none other do I submit my endeavours . I shall only trouble the Reader with their various bearing , in the examples of some few , which will direct to all others , And herein the first is Argent , on a mount in base a Pine-tree fructed proper , by the name of Pine. The second is Gules , the trunck of a tree in pale eradicated and cooped , Sprouting out two branches Arg. by the name of Stockden of Leicestershire . The third is Arg. three sterved branches slipped Sables , by the name of Black-stock . The fourth is Arg. a Cheveron Gules , between three garbs of the second , by the Lord Sheffield Earle of Mougrave . The fifth is Sables , three Lillies slipped Arg. the Coat-Armor of Winchester Colledge . The sixt is Arg. a Cheveron Sables , between three Columbines proper ; by the name of Hall of Coventry . The seventh is Arg. a fesse Nebule between three trefoyls slipt Gules , by the name of Thorpe of Glocestershire . The eight Arg. 〈◊〉 Holly leaves pendant proper , by the name of Inwine . The ninth , a fesse Arg. three Apples transposed in base Or , by the name of Harwine of Devon. Of Monsters : ANd here before I proceed to dead and artificial things , I think it proper to take observation of some Monsters in nature , which are often born in Arms. And the first of these is Arg. a Griffen rampant with wings displayed Sables , by the name of Morgan . The second is Arg. a Wiverne , his wings displayed , and tayl nowed Gules , by the name of Drake . The third is Sables , a Cockatrice displayed Arg. membred and Jolloped Gules , by the name of Buggine . The fourth is Arg. a Rearmouse displayed Sables , by the name of Backster . The fifth is Arg. on a bend Gules , three mens heads horned Or , by the name of Wittall , or Witwell in Yorkeshire . The sixth is Azure , a Harpy displayed , crined , crowned and armed , Or. The seventh is Arg. a Mermayd Gules , crined Or , holding a Mirror in the right hand , and in the cleft a Comb , by the name of Ellis . The eight is Gules , a bend engrayled Arg. between three Leopards heads Jessant Flower-de-luce , of the second , by the name of Dennys . The ninth is Gules , three Leopards heads vorant , as many Flower-de-luce Or , which , saith Guillim , belongs to the See of Hereford . Of the parts of Mans Body . THere are sometimes whole figures of mans body , born in Coat Armor , as for example , the arms of Sevil in Spain , which is Or , a King enthronized on his Seat Royal Azure , Crowned and Sceptred , and invested of the first the doublings of his Robe Ermine . The Arms proper to the Episcopal See of Salisbury , is Az. the Virgin Mary with her Son in her right arm , and a Scepter in her left hand , all Or. But the like of these are very seldom seen , only the leggs , armes , hands , and other desected members are often met with , as in these following examples I have demonstrated . The first is Gules a Saracen's head erased Arg. environed about the Temples with a wreath of the second and Sables , by Mergith of Wales . The second is Arg. a Fesse Gules , betwixt three Hearts vulned , distilling drops of blood , on the sinister side proper . The third is Gules , a Heart betwixt two wings displayed Or. The fourth is Gules , three dexter arms conjoyned at the shoulders and flexed in triangle , Or , with the fist clinched Arg. by the name of Tremain of Devonshire . The fifth Arg. a mans leg erased at the thigh , Sables , by the name of Prime . The sixth is barry of six , Or & Sab. over all a pale Gules , charged with a Womans Dug , distilling drops of milk proper , by the name of Dodge . The seventh is Arg. a Cheveron Sab. between three Blackmores heads couped at the shoulders proper , by the name of Ives . The eighth is Arg. a Cheveron Gules , betwixt three Periwigs Sab. The ninth is Barry nebule of six pieces , Az. & Arg. as one chief of the second , three eyes , Gul. by Delahay . If those drops are charged distinctly in any field , as sometimes they are , and sometimes the field all over , you are to blazon them differently according to the colour , as , if Sanguine , then Gutte de Sang. which is , drops of blood . If Arg. then Gutte de l' aue , drops of water . Or , Gutte de Or , drops of Gold. Az. Gutte de Lermes , drops of Tears . Vert , Gutte de Vert , drops of Oyl-Olive . Of Artificiall things . HAving thus cursorily run through these examples , yet I hope sufficiently enough , for the satisfaction of an Ingenuous Reader ; I now come to the artificiall varieties , of bearing in Coat-Armour . Which since they are as numerous almost as the conceits of ingenuity : I must be excused from inserting the infinite examples of them , yet I shall propose some , and let the eye of the observing Student make up the defects of the rest , as it may well do . The first is Arg. a Cheveron Gules , betwixt three Ducall Caps , Azure doubled indented Ermin . The second is Arg. a Mantle of estate , Gules , and doubled Ermin , ouched or garnished with strings tassals of the same . The third , the Arms of the Archbishop of Canterbury , which is Azure , a staffe in pale Sol , and thereupon a crosse Patree Arg. surmounted of a Pall of the last , charged with four other crosse pattees fetched Sables , edged and fringed as the second . The fourth is Arg. on a bend Vert , betwixt six crosse crosselets fitched Gules , three Crosier staffs , by the name of Peare . The fifth is Arg. three Chaplets Vert , by the name of Richardson of Shropshire . The sixth Azure , a Maunch , Or , by the name of Conyers . The seventh is Gules , three Garters buckled and nowed Arg. by the name of Sydemer . The eighth is Gules , six Annulets , three , two , and one , Or , this is quartered by the Earls of Cumberland . The ninth is Gules , three tassals Or , by the name of Wooler . Of Military things . IN the next , are those that represent examples of Military things born in Armour , both of Land and Sea. As first Arg. a Tower triple towered , Sab. chained transverse the port Or , by the name of Oldcastle . The second Or , a Castle 〈◊〉 towred Gules , the port displayed of the field leaved , Arg. And here is to be noted , that it is never blazoned a Castle , but when it extendeth it self crosse the whole field , and sometimes you shall find a single Tower not turretted , as the first , in the Coat of Sir Richard Mansfield . The third is Gules , three single arches Arg. their capitals and pedestals by the name of Arches . The fourth Or , a bridge of three arches in fesse Gules , masoned Sables , the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 proper , on it a fane Arg. by the 〈◊〉 of Trowbridge of Trowbridge . The fifth Sables , a Cheveron between three tents Arg. by the name of Tenton . The sixth Arg. a sweep Azure , charged with a stone , or by the name of Magnal . The seventh Or , a pillar Sables , enwrapped with an Adder Arg. by the name of 〈◊〉 . The eighth is Arg. three battering 〈◊〉 bar-wayes proper , headed , Az. armed and 〈◊〉 Or , by Robert 〈◊〉 Earl of Lyndsey . The ninth Azure , three murthering chainshots Or , this is quartered by the Earl of Cumberland . There are many other things born ; as tiltspears , sometimes with penoncels , and sometimes without ; Drums , Fifes , Trumpets , Cannons , Bows , Arrows , and the like : but their blazon is easie to every eye , that knows any thing of Armory . Of Maritine things . OF things belonging to the Sea , I have these examples . The first Gules , three pieces of Masts cooped with their tops Arg. by the name of Cromer . The second Gules , three Sayls Arg. by the name of Cavill . The third Azure , a Rudder of a ship Arg. The fourth Gules , an Anchor in pale Arg. the cros-piece Or , by the name of Goodred . The fifth Or , a Lighter - 〈◊〉 in fesse Gul. The sixth Gules , the hull of a Ship , having only a main Mast , and a top , without tackling Or. This , saith Guillim , is the Coat-Armor of the Duke of Alasco in Polonia . The seventh is Arg. a ship with three masts a sayl furld and hoysted to the main top shrouded Sables , by the name of Mercers . The eigth his Azure , a Galley passing under sayl , Or. The ninth is Arg. a Cheveron Gules , between three Murriours Azure , by the Lord Brudenell . Of Mechanical things . THe last example , that I shall insert , is of other more ordinary Mechanical things . The first is Arg. a Cheveron between three Palmers scrips Sables , the tassels and buckles Or , by Sir Henry Palmer of Kent . The second is Gules , a Cheveron between three Irish Broges , Or. The third is Sables , three Pickaxes Argent , by the name of Pigot . The fourth is Arg. a fesse between three pheans Sables , by the name of Rowdon of Yorkshire . The sixth is Sables , three bels Arg. by the name of Porter . The sixth is Azure , three Howboys between as many crosse crosselets Or , by the name of Bourden . The seventh is Or , on a bend Az. three Katherine Wheels Arg. by the name of Rudhall . The eighth Az. three levels with their plumets , Or , by the name of 〈◊〉 . The ninth is Arg. three bezants , on a chief 〈◊〉 , by the name of 〈◊〉 . And here we are to take notice , that if these roundals are charged in counter-changes as before , then they are only called Roundals : but if any other 〈◊〉 , as in this example , they are of a various blazon according to their colors , as thus . If they are Or , then they are called Bezants , Argent , Plates , Sables , Pellets , Gules , Vorteuxes , Ligh-tblew , Hurts . Vert , Pomeyes , Purpure , Golps , Teune , Oranges , Sanguine , Gules . And thus much I think sufficient to be said of the examples of Charges in Coat-Armor . In the next place , I am to shew the differences of Helms , which distingnish in some part the honor of the bearer in his degree . The Crowns and 〈◊〉 , differing more particularly the highest degrees of Nobility , I shall also exemplifie in the conclusion of this discourse ; and I hope shall raise , in some measure , a relation to the old proverb , Finis coronat opus . Of Helmets . THe differences of Helms is always exprest , when the Crest is given : and by this difference a Gentleman is known in his degree by his hatchment , as much as these following examples 〈◊〉 . These Helmets are sometimes called cask and timbers ; by the French , Helenum ; by the Romans , Cassidem ; by the Greeks , Galeam , a Covering for the head in time of war ; and our manner of bearing crests on them is from their ancient fancy of adorning their Helmets with some kind of monstrous Device : as the Head or mouth of a Lyon , the paws or horns of certain beasts ; to appear more terrible . And that which we call Mantle , is not , as some doe ridiculously suppose , the Vestment which they usually had to wear over their atms in War ; or , as some would have it , to secure their shield from weather ; but from this originall , that Princes and chief Commanders used to adorn their Helmets ( according to their qualities ) with rich buckles , studs , and circlets of gold , garnished with rich and costly stones , and on the top or crests of them , wreaths of corded 〈◊〉 ; being the Liveries of their Ladies and Mistrisses , as also some curled 〈◊〉 of hair , and those Cordons ( like waving scarfs ) dangled down behinde them on the Cruppers of their Horses , the ends being fairly tasselled and enriched , many times with Pearls and precious Stones : and thus especially they rid upon dayes of Triumph . But in Germany and many other places where the laws of Honour and Armory are severely obsetved , a mean Gentleman or new Atchiever is not permitted to bear Helm , Mantle , or Crest , but by special favour . The first differs from the 2. in that it is a side standing helmet with the Beaver close , which is for all Esquires and Gentlemen . The second , is the common fashion of Knights , which is a helmet standing direct forward with the 〈◊〉 open without guards . The third , is a side-helmet open-faced guardevisure , which is proper for all persons of the Nobility , beneath a Duke and above a Knight . The fourth is the Helmet of Persons executing Soveraign Authority , which is a Helmet which is full forward open-faced , guarde-visure : which belongeth also to Princes and Dukes . In this manner are all Degrees obviously differenced to every mans judgement in all hatchments . And , if they be above the degree of a Knight , that these do not distinguish to particulars ; then they are also understood by their 〈◊〉 and Crowns . Of Crowns and Coronets . The first whereof is the Crown of the Empire of Germany , which is but little different from that of England in the second , which is Emperial too . The third is that Coronet of the Prince which is the same with the Kings , only the arches , mound , and crosse , wanting . The fourth is the Crownet of an Archduke , which is the same with a Duke , the Arch only added . The fifth is a Crownet floral , only proper to a Duke . The sixth is the Crownet of a Marquesse , which differs thus , It is of leaves and points , the leaves or flowers above the points . The seventh is proper to an Earl , which hath points and flowers ; but the points are above the flowers . The eighth is due to a Viscount , which is a Circulet or Coronet pearled , and neither flowers nor points . The last is the form of that Crown , which is found to be in fashion in the time of William the Conqueror . Which I have inserted to shew the difference betwixt the Crown Imperial of England then , and now . As to the antiquity of these Crowns or Diadems , as notes of Regality : I finde not any where a just authority to assure me of their Origination : but , that there were Crowns , long before Tragedies were in use , is to me very evident ; though Sir William Segar is of opinion , the use of them came from thence . Yet , that the use of them in these parts of the World , might come from the giving of Crowns in Triumph , and Lawrels or Wreaths for Vertue , is very probable , which was a thing very frequent , and of very great antiquity among the Romans ; and hath continued , and been exercised in the Empire since the translation to Germany , and that with much Ceremony , as in the example of Joannes Crusius , his receiving the Laurel as Stratsburgh an . 1616. See Mr. Selden his Titles of Honor , where it is at large , fol. 402. Which custom hath since been in these parts , and indeed long before that time were Crowns given to Poets here ; as , witnesse the example in St. Mary Overies Church , where one John Gower a Poet in Richard the seconds time hath a Statue crowned with Ivie mixed with Roses ; but since it is more commonly used of Laurel . Though the Crown of Laurel or Bayes was first appropriated to him that triumphed for victory in the field . At which time , distinctions of Crowns were observed according to the variety of merit . As Corona Muralis , this was due to him that was first seen upon the Wall of the Enemy . Corona Castrensis , for him that made a breach in the Castle of the Enemy ; the first a Crown embattail'd , or made with battailment being of Gold , the other of Towers ; And then they had Corona Navalis , garnished with Fore-castles for service at Sea , made of Gold too . Then Corona Ovalis of Myrtle ; for victory , gotten with little hazard : Corona Obsidialis , which was made of grass for him that had preserved an Army besiged . Corona Civica , for him that saved a Citizen from the Enemy , made of Oaken boughs : Corona Olivaris of Olive leavs , for victory in the Olympick games : And Corona Populea , for young men that were found industrious and studious in the exercises of vertues . But I find that amongst these rewards of honor , the Crown made of Ivy , called Corona Hederalis was only appropriated to the Poets ; and here we see the great encouragement given to Vertue , which was an age doubtlesse , when it was much exercised in all its species . When vertuous moderation received an estimation in the minds of young Nobility , before 〈◊〉 voluptuousnesse . And Honor more aimed at by steps of Vertue , than the engrossing parsimoniousnesse , or expending profusenesse of the 〈◊〉 and unsatisfying uncertainty of riches ; 〈◊〉 doubtlesse a most Noble Age. And why should any man make himself so 〈◊〉 concern'd in the true honor of his creation , as to set himself so little before the irrational 〈◊〉 , as the Examples of ou idle and 〈◊〉 Age do too often demonstrate , whilest all men naturally are ambitious of honor ? And why should not any man blush to be seen reaching at it ( that is only the recompence of vertue ) till by some virtuous testimony he hath declared his desert ? Certain I am , no generous and noble spirit ever breathed in any age , that did not present some opportunities of exercising virtue in one degree or other ; and the reward in some measure is ever a concomitant to Heroick and Ingenious merit . Or should it , in some case , fail the truly generous soul , though it misse its reward , yet it thinks it honor to have deserved Honor , and satisfies it self with that encouragement . Thus I have given a succinct account of all manner of Bearings . Some will here expect , that I should now lay down rules to discover the worth of the Atchiever , by the nature of the Atchivement ; as Guillim , and others have 〈◊〉 . It may be conjectured , how far a Coat-Armor is more or lesse honorable , by 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of worth in the thing born ; but 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 farther , from thence to a 〈◊〉 of the quality of the merit , for which that 〈◊〉 was a reward , is altogether uncertain . Therefore ; for conclusion , I shal instance one Escutcheon of Examples more , which I think ( though not difficult to blazon ) not easily reducible to any such judgement , yet the Families well known of noble and 〈◊〉 Descent . The first is Sab. a Crosse engrailed Or , in the dexter Cant on a mullet Arg. an Inescutcheon of Ulstre , the addition of a Knight Baronet , being the Coat-Armor of Sir , Tho. Peyton of Knolton in East-Kent , Knight and 〈◊〉 . The second is Ermin on a chief Azure , three Lyoncels Rampant Or. The atchivement of Sir Anthony Aucher of Little-bourn in East-Kent . The third is barry of twelve Or , and Sable , by Sir James and Sir Thomas Thynne of Long leak in Wiltshire . The fourth is Arg. on a Cheveron Sab. three Escollop-shels Or , between three peelets , charged with as many Martlets of the first ; all within a border Vert , by Anthony Hammon of St. Albons in East-Kent Esq . The fifth is Arg. on a bend Az. three 〈◊〉 heads cabossed Or. On an Escutcheon of pretence , Arg. a Cheveron Sab. betwixt three Ravens , by Thomas Stanley of Cumberlow in Hertfordshire Esq the paternal coat his right by descent , ( with the distinstion of the third house ) of the Earls of Derby , the Escutcheon of pretence as by match with the daughter and heir of Sir James Enyon of Flower in Northamptonshire . Where observe , that although a man marry the daughter and heir of a Coat-Armor , yet he hath not the power of quartering it , but only to empale it , or bear it thus in an 〈◊〉 of pretence ; the liberty of quartering , being in the heir , who enjoyes both their Coats by right of blood . Observe also , that if any thing be thus hid by an addition either Canton or Escutcheon of pretence , it is notwithstanding to be nominated , That no detriment be to the Coat . The sixth is Gules , three barbed arrows Arg. headed Or , by Edward Hales of Tunstal in Kent , Esq The seventh is Arg. a Cheveron between three Milrines , Sab. by Roger James , of Rigale in Surrey , Esquire . The eighth within a bordure bezanty Sab. Arg. an Imperial Eagle , by the Family of the Killigrews , in Cornwall . The ninth Arg. a fesse Ermines between six Mullets , Sab. by Steven Penckhurst of Buxsted in Sussex , Esquire . And now I hope I have not passed by any one thing that can be called pertinent to this discourse without some touch : perhaps , satisfactory enough to any indifferent contemplation . The End of Armory . The Orders of Knighthood in most places of Christendome , and in particular first of the Order of St. George in England . The Creation Robe of a Knight of y e Garter AS to Knighthood in generall , enough hath been already discoursed in the first part of this Treatise . I come now , to speak of the severall Otders , and especially those that are called Soveraign : amongst which I must needs esteem that of the Garter , or St. George in England to be as Noble as any in the World ; not from that epidemick humor of most Writers , because it is of my own Nation ; but for the excellency of it self : especially , in that according to the Articles of its foundation , none are to be admitted to the Honor , but such as are Peers of the Realm . For the first occasion of the erecting these Soveraign Orders of Knighthood , above the more common , was , that as all Honors were instituted for the reward and encouragement of deserving persons , so these for persons of more eminence , or more excellent merit , to receive a character that might in a higher nature than ordinary blazon their merit to the world . And that Order or fraternity must needs be esteemed of greatest honor , where the King shall submit himselfe to the badge of it . This Order of the Garter we find to be instituted by Edward the third , after a return from the Warrs against the French and Scots , with eminent victories . The occasion Sir William Segar says was but slight ; alluding as I conceive to the story of the King 's taking up the Countesse of Salisburies Garter ; Which he wearing on his own leg , caused a jealousie in the Queen . And from thence received the motto life , Hony soit qui mal y pens , Evill to him that evill imagines . But I am of opinion that this humor arose from the French stories only , who would be apt enough to endeavour an abatement of the honor of it , lest its glory should appear too illustrious in the eye of the World ; and out-shine or eclipse their then blazing Star. And that we may a little examine the truth , let us observe the ridiculousnesse of the coherence of these merry scandalizers . First they differ in their time , as shall appear anon ; then concerning the Lady , they take notice of to make up the pretty Romance , the mistake is very great and plain ; for in some places they say it was the Queen's Garter , and if so , what needed then the Motto ? But most commonly they say , it was the Countesse of Salisburies ' ; whom they name sometimes Alice , and sometimes Joan ; when her name was Katherine , and Mistris , and after wife to the Black Prince Son of the said King , as is well observed in Heylyn's History of St. George . By which , Froysart's error must appear very perspicuous , who was the first and most eminent Author of this mighty fable . Mounsier Favin in his Theater of Honor , quotes Froysart , and Polydore Virgil , for the like account . But I am apt to collect another reason from Mr. Selden's discourse ( an authority that I think needs no Apology ) and to think Edward the third , being to engage a field , gave St. George for the word , ( long time before , the Patron-Saint of England ) in which battail he gained a great victory ; which was about the year 1349. and at his return in the year one thousand three hundred and fifty , established thisOrder to the honor of St George , which agrees with the black Book of Windsor that Chronologizes it on the three and twentyeth day of April in the year one thousand three hundred and fifty , being the three and twentyeth of that King's Reign . And I understand not , but that the addition of the Gartet might be after added to the Ensignes of the Order : for the firstEnsign together with the Robes was the Crosse of Saint George , yet in use amongst them . And some do adde that the Garter was from a Martiall rise also , as that a leather-garter upon the left leg was a mark given to some of the eminent Commanders with promise of enriching it on those that performed honorably in the charge . For the account of the time according to other Authors , it is left disputable . Mr. Selden takes notice of some of the French Authors , that affirm it to be erected in Anno 1344. yet after his victories ; as in the relations of the same Froysart , and Thomas of Walsingam : And Polydore Virgil , ( to whom Favin subscribes ) will have it in An. 1347. Yet in another place he sets it down in the year one thousand three hundred and forty four . Oportet mendacem memorem esse . And one other observation I collect from some of these Authors ; that the Order was established before either of these passages ; only as a Seminary to draw other Knights of the world into these parts ; which caused the French King to do the like the same year of another Order by way of prevention ; this is averred by some . Which is , I conceive by other circumstances , a mistake upon a Just or Turnment proclaimed by the said King Edward ( about the year one thousand three hundred forty and four ) in all places beyond the Seas , to be held at Windsor ; about which time he caused to be built a very large round table for the entertaining of such Princes and Persons of great quality , as should repair thither ; when the Earl of Salisbury was so bruised at the Justing , that he dyed . At the news of which meeting ; the French King sodainly after did the like , to obstruct the concourse of great soldiers and honorable Personages that this would have produced . The patron of this order is St. George ; who suffered Martyrdome at Nicomedia , and was buryed at Lydda in Capadocia according to Dr. Heylin : but Mr. Selden sayes , he suffered at Lydda , under Diocletian , about the 〈◊〉 of Christ one hundred and ninty . Whose fame was so great in the world , that many Temples were built to his name , as that of Justinian in Armenia ; and in Venice the chief Church for the Grecians ; Jo. Eucaitensis built a Monastery to the honor of St. George in the time of Constantine . Into which the Emperors after were wont to make a solemn procession every Saint Georges day . In Carinthia , there is an Order of Knighthood of St. George , in very much esteem . And Eusebius speaks also of another Order of St. George among the Greeks whose Ensign is a red Crosse with this Motto Sub hec signo vinces , begun by Constantiue the Great . When first it came into this Nation , is by the best Antiquaries left disputed ; but that he hath been long honored as Patron-Protector of England , is proved by all , and by Mr. Selden , before the Conquest ; The three and twentyeth day of April , being constantly celebrated to his memory . And it is no marvail ( saith the same Author ) that so warlike a Nation should chuse to themselves the name of such a souldier Saint , known by the particular name of Tropheophorus , and of greater eminence in both the Eastern and Western Churches then any other Souldier-Saint . The Soveraign of this order is the King of England ; the number of the Fellowship is twenty six , besides the Soveraign ; of which when any of them dye , the place is to be supplyed by another elected by the Soveraign , with the consent of the Fraternity , as it was antiently ; chosen and estalled at Windsor : but since it is referred to the entire disposing of the King. They have many Articles confirmed , to which all that are enstalled subscribe ; and have an oath to which they swear that , to their power , during the time they shall be fellows of the Order , they will defend the honor , quarels , rights and Lordships of the Soveraign , and that they will endeavour to preserve the honor of the said Order , and all the Statutes of it without fraud or covin . Quinam perjurati ? The Officers of the Order are a Prelate , which is alwayes the Bishop of Winchester ; a Chancellor Register , a King of Arms called Garter ; and an Usher called the Black Rod , added by Henry the eighth . Their habit is a Cassock of Crimson Velvet , and a Mantle of Purple Velvet lined with white Sarcenet , on the left shoulder whereof is an Escutcheon of S. George embroydered within a Garter with the Motto : the Escutcheon is Argent , a plain Crosse Gules . Above all , about the neck they wear a collar of the Order weighing thirty ounces of Gold Troy weight , composed of Garters and Knots enamel'd , and with Roses red and white ; and since the coming in of King James , there hath been an intermixture of Thistles . At this collar hangeth the Image of St. George on horseback , enriched with precious stones . And about the left leg they wear a Garter enamelled and enriched with gold , pearl , and stones of great value with the same Motto of Hony soit qui mal y pens . For their ordinary Ensign they wear a blew ribbon over their left shoulder ; and another on their left leg ; and a Star of silver embroy dery on the same side of their cloak with the Scutcheon of St. George in the Center of it . And sometimes at their Ribbon a George also , and then they wear it about their necks . Their feast is yearly at Windsor Castle on St. Georges day . In which place upon the foundation of it was a Church erected with Dean and Prebends ; as also thirteen poor aged Gentlemen , established to be maintained with stipends by the name of Knights of Windsor : who had appointed to them robes of cloath according to the manner of the Order , which were to pray for the Order . Of the Knights of the Round Table in England . IT is said by many writers , that the Order of the 〈◊〉 was inftituted in imitation 〈◊〉 the Round Table : but I can give no great assurance of it ; only I believe it probable enough ; the beginning of them both agreeing also in some kind of Analogy . This of the Round Table , ( for so much as is remaining in History ) appears to me to have been the most noble in the world , either before or since , for ought yet I can understand . And pity it were the memory of it should perish , as it is almost ; being buried in the metamorphosis of ridiculous fables ; and by that means only 〈◊〉 , with the shadowie reputation of a Romance , in the minds of many , and indeed most men . It was erected by King Arthur , who reigned in the year of our Redemption 490. and conquered Norway , Scotland , and so much of France that he was crowned King of Paris : as both ours and the French annals testifie . Of this King many fabulous things have been writ ; but we may collect so much from the more serious , as may assute us that without doubt many noble and ( beyond ordinary ) heroick acts were performed by this generous Prince . Which caused the society of this Order to shine with so much the more splendor than the ordinary stars of this sublunary world : insomuch that it is recorded in some Chronologies , that at one time summoning them to a meeting at a place in Wales , called Carlion , or Carlignion , there resorted to him ten Kings , thirteen Earls , and many Barons , and other persons of great quality that were of the Fraternity . This I have also in Sir William Segar ; and in a very antient Chronicle which I have seen my selfe in Manuscript in that Country ; which was much the same with the relations I have since met with , of this Order . And that these Kings were not petty Kings must be understood , since there was at that time no Heptarchy , or Provincial Kings , but all Monarchies , much in the same nature as they have been in our ages . This King is generally reported by Chronologers ( and some of them solid too ) to be taken alive from the earth ; or at least miraculously disposed of , invisibly : but this is a riddle too great for me to unfold . Many of them 〈◊〉 this fable I conjecture from an Epitaph that Merlin writ on him , Hic jacet Arturus , Rex quondam , Rexque futurus . Which very thing to my Judgement must make clear that he was buryed ; which is their argument that he was not . The Order or Fraternity however , was certainly in very great repute in the world , and being only a banquet of Honor could not but whet the emulations of all generous spirits ; for none were admitted to it but such as had shewed their merit by some eminent exploit . Their place of convention was Winchester ; where they had their Round Table , and at the Feast of Pentecost they alwayes met and feasted . So saith Sir William Segar , ( in whose Orders of Knighthood the articles of this Order are set down ) : but others are of another opinion , and tell us that Windsor Castle was the most peculiar place , where a Round Table was erected for their meeting , being a Castle built by the same King ; and the Records of the place shew us as much , though Winchester may sometimes have been the place , according as the time of the Kings being in progresse or keeping his Court accidentally there ; as sometimes it was at Carleon ; and sometimes in the North. Knights of St. Andrew in Scotland . THe Scots ever since the reign of Hungus the Pict have received St. Andrew for their Tutelar-Saint . Who , as it is reported in their Histories making war on the English , saw in the skie a bright Crosse of St. Andrew ; which is in the Shape of the Saltire , and in that battail after gained a very great victory . From which time ever since they flye that Crosse in their Banners . And from thence erected the Order of St. Andrew . But I find nothing in Favin , Aubertus , Mereus , or the Scotch Writer 〈◊〉 , that can satisfie me in what time it began . Only it was refined by James the fifth . Who being honored with the Garter from England , the Toyzon d'or from the Emperor , and St , Michael from France , celebrated the Festivals of them all ; and setting up their several arms with their orders about them , over the gate of 〈◊〉 , erected his own also with the order of Saint Andrew in the midst : which Order is ensigned with a Collar of Rue , and Thistles , with a Medal of St. Andrew hanging at it ; and this Motto , Nemo me impune 〈◊〉 . Of the Golden Fleece in the Empire . THis Order of the Toyzon d'Or was instituted by Philip Duke of Burgundy , an . 1429. upon his expedition to the Holy Land , in memory of Gideon , who with three hundred men fought against , and overthrew , a mighty Army of the Midianites , as Favin is of opinion . Which perchance may be true : he marching upon a great enterprise with a smal Army , might do it to raise courage and emulation in his Commanders . The Patron is St. Andrew , the Soveraign the Dukes of Burgundy : the number twenty four , besides the Soveraign , all of Noble blood . Their habit is a Cassock of Crimson Velvet , and over it a Mantle of the same , lined with white ; which openeth on the right fide , and is turned upon the left over the shoulder , embroydered round about with a bordure of flames , fusils , and fleeces ; and a Hood of Crimson Velvet on their heads . The Collar of the Order is of gold , wrought with flames , fusils , and fleeces ; which they are bound to wear alwayes , upon a penalty . The power of making new is in the Soveraign only . And who ever enters into it renounces all other orders of Knighthood , unlesse the Soveraigns be Emperors , Kings , or free Princes . To the order belongs a Chancellor , a Treasurer , Register , and a King of Armes called Toyzon Dor. At the Collar hangs a golden Fleece . And formerly there was an Impresse peculiar to it ; which was an instrument to strike fire , with his Motto , Ante ferit , quàm flamma micet . The Emperor Charles the fifth , being afterwards Soveraign as Duke of Burgundy , did much increase the Order . The severall Orders of Knighthood in France . Knights of the Star. THis order I find of very great eminence in France , called the Star of the Sea ; and sometimes also of the Virgin Mary . It was instituted by King Robert , an . 〈◊〉 . And himself , and succeding Kings were of the Fraternity . Their Ensigne was a Star ; which they wore was their Hoods , or Caps . But this Order in time grew so common , and distributed so immeritorioufly , that Charles the seventh ( as 〈◊〉 at it ) commanded every Yeoman of his Guard to wear a Star in like manner ; which the Knights seeing , presently left it off , and so the Order fell . Knights of St. Michael . JN the stead of the Knighthood of the Star the same King Charles erected the order of of St. Michael as some suppose : but more truly Lewis the eleventh at Amboys an . 1469. upon the occasion of a Vision ( as their Historians relate ) of the Archangel's appearance on Orleans Bridge as their Tutelar against the English. At which time the famous Amazon , Joan of France , lived , who did many Heroick exployts , leading an Army her self in the field against the English. For which the English after having vanquisht her ( much to our disparagement I think ) in revenge caused her to be burnt for a Witch in the Market-place of Orleans : in which place is since a Conduit erected to her memory . This order of Monsieur St. Michael Archangel is of thirty six Knights , and a Soveraign , which is the King. The Cognisance of the Order is a Collar of gold made of cockle-shels and knots , with the Image of St. Michael pendant at it , which Collar ought to weigh two hundred Crowns in gold , and not above nor under . For the wearing of this Collar there was a very strict article ; as that , Every man that did not wear it every day was to cause a masse to be said , and to pay seaven shillings six pence Turnoys of forfeiture : except in Arms , and then they were permitted to wear only the Image of the Angel on a chain or ribbon : the Motto of the order is , Immensi tremor Oceani . To this order is established a Herald called Mon. St. Michael , a Treasurer , a Chancellor , and a Register . Their habit according to the constitution of Henry the second of France was , his doublet , hose , shooes , scabbard , hat-band , and feather , all white ; a Surcoat with sleeves , of cloth of silver ; over it a Mantle of the same turned up over the left shoulder , and tyed over the right , embroydered with a bordure like the Collar . Over his shoulder lay a hood of cloth of silver spreading over his back , the tippet hanging down before , and over all the Collar . Knights of the Holy Ghost , or St. Esprit . TO this order of St. Michael did Henry the third , in honor of Whit-Sunday , ( on which day he was chosen King of Poland ) institute the order of Chivaleir du benoist sante Esprit : Joyning both this and the other into one , an . 1578. as they continue to this day . In this discourse of this order by Monsieur Favin , is set down the Oathes , Ceremonies , Pensions , Accompts , and all the duties : all which should I insert would be too 〈◊〉 for my intention . The manner of their procession to Court , and many other particulars , is set down concerning them in Sir William Segar . Their robe is like that of St. Michael ; only of black Velvet embroydered all about with gold and silver of Flowers-de-lysse , and knots of gold between sundry cyphers of silver , and flames of gold , seamed : garnished also with a Mantle of green cloth of silver , wrought over with the same manner of embroydery with the Mantle both lined with Orange coloured Sattin . The great Mantle they wear turned up over the left shoulder , and open on the right : their hose and doublet white , and black bonnets with white plumes ; the Collar over all , wrought in the same manner as the embroydery . They have a crosse hanging at it , with a Dove in the Center of it , as in another place shall be described . Of the Order of the Gennet . THis by the Annals of France is reckoned the first Order that ever was instituted in that Country . But I have not given it the first place , because it is now extinguished , and its essence only remaining in the Chronologie of Fame . It was ordained by Charles called the Tyrant , before his usurpation called Charles Martell Seneschall , or High Steward of France . Who in a battel against the Moores , gaining a Victory , had , amongst many other spoyls , a great number of Genets skins , and some of the beasts ; In memory of which victory he instituted this Order , about the year of our Lord 726. The number was 16. to whom he gave Collars of gold made of a triple chain enterwoven with enameld red Roses , at the end whereof hung a Gennet of gold enamelled black and red , upon a Terrasse or bank of flowers fairly enamel'd : This continued till King Robert , and then the Star of the Sea eclipsed it . These Knights saith Aubertus Meraeus , had other Ensignes appropriated also , as a Ring after the manner of the Romans ; and certain habits for the body . About which time , or not long after , Charlemain created another Order called of the Crown Royall : but that was not so much in esteem , being only for a reward of service in Friezland , the Governour of the Country having the power of creating the Knights . Knights of the Broomeflower ; And also of the Ship. LEwis the ninth in his time instituted two Orders of Knighthood ; one called of the Broomeflower in the Cod , and the other of the Ship , called also of the Crescent , or half Moon . The first he instituted at his Coronation , and it continued till the end of the reign of Charls the fifth , and extinguished with his life . The collar of the Order was composed of Cods of Broomeflowers intermixed with Lozanges enamelled with flowers-de-lysse ; and at it , hung a Crosse formy flory , with this Motto ; Exaltat humiles . The other of the Ship he erected upon the occasion of the second voyage into Egypt , to encourage the Nobility that went with him . The collar of the Order was enterlaced with double Scallops , and double Crescents interwoven with a meddal hanging at it , with a Ship enamelled under sayl . This King Lewis returning from his voyage against the Turks , an . 1554 brought home with him a Troop of Knights , called of St. Lazarus , to whom he gave large possessions : But afterwards , this Order fell again , and their revenues were given to the Knights of Malta : untill the time of Henry the fourth who instituted that of Mount-Carmel , and revived that of St. Lazarus . There are many other ancient Knighthoods recorded in France , but as they were of lesse esteem , so are they also out of date ; and I shall only name them , most of which were more private Orders , and had subjects for their Soveraigns : There was of the Porcupine : Of the Thistle of Bourbon : of the Croissant of Anjou : of the Ermin of Britagne . Of which examin Monsieur Favin his Theatre of Honor. There was also an order of the Dog and Cock , appropriated to the family of Monmorency , and another of de la dame blanke al' escue verd ; or the order of the Fair Lady of the green Field ; instituted by Jean de Boucicaut Marshal of France under Charles the sixth , who were sworn unto divers Articles , as that they should assist all Ladies , and Gentlewomen wronged in their honors or fortunes , answer challenges of Armes , supply one anothers necessary absence , that if any Lady or Gentlewoman , required aid of any of them , and after any Knight or Esquire should challenge him , he should first right the Lady ; and then perform the 〈◊〉 or if a chalenge preceded such other accident , it was at their pleasure which to undertake first ; and many more such , which would be too tedious for this place . They are at large in Mauchaut Sieur de Roman ville his history of Boucicat . Of Military Orders in Spain . Of the Order of the Lilly. THis Order was erected in 〈◊〉 by Garcia the sixth , of the name surnamed Naiera , in honor of the Virgin Mary ; and upon a miracle so great as might make this Lilly one of the primest flowers in her little garden . * The substance of it this : The King having been very sick ; in the extremity of his disease sent to St. Saviour de Leyra , and other places of devotion , that prayers and interercessions might be made for his recovery ; In which time was discovered in the City of Naiera , ( where ordinarily he kept Court ) the Image of the Virgin Mary issuing out of a Lilly , holding her Son berwixt her arms . And suddenly after the discovery of this , the King recovered his health ; and many other miracles were done on diseased people in that place , as supposed by vertue of the Virgin Mother ; whom they tearmed the Lilly of the Vallyes . In honor whereof the said King erected this Order , and made himself Soveraign of it , and his Sucessors after him . These Knights did wear on their breasts a Lilly embroydered in silver ; and on festivall dayes a double chain of gold interlaced with letters M , after the manner of the Gotish letter ; with an Oval meddal hanging at it with a Lilly enamelled . Knights of San Jago , or St. James . THis was erected by the resolution of Gentlemen , being either Barons , or men of great quality , that ( jupon the conquering of their Country by the Arabians ) retired into the Mountains of Asturia ; and residing there made an engagement of War against the Moors ; agreeing upon religious Rules of Knighthood , yet reserving to themselves liberty of marriage : but this Order Favin speaks to be erected by Alphonso the ninth , an . 1158. and that it was confirmed in 1175 , by Pope Alexander the third , Their Governor is called great Master , their feast is on All-Saints day ; when they meet in very great magnificence , having very great revenues : their Ensign a red Crosse shaped like a Sword , with an Escollop's shell on it , in imitation of the badge of the Pilgrims that go to Jerusalem , and to the Sepulchre of St. James the Apostle . Now the great Master of this Order hath alwayes neer him thirteen Knights where ever he goes for his aid , and Councill ; and so all the other Orders in Spain . Of the Order of Calatrava . THis was begun an . 1158. in imitation of that of St. Jago , by Don Sanctio the third , King of Toledo , and it takes it name from the place of its establishment : their habit is a black garment , and on the breast thereof a red Crosse ; they have many great priviledges , and possessions in Spain , the form of their Crosse is set down in the end of this discourse ; which if we will believe Monsieur Favin , and Aubertus Maereus , is quite another then that which Sir William Segar describes . Knights of Alcantara . THese also derive their denomination from the place of their institution , and living under the same orders with those of Calatrava , doe wear the same fashioned Crosse , only the Colour is green They have a very glorious Church at Alcantara in Castiglia upon the river Tago , endowed with rich possessions , where their great meetings are . These were first of the order of St. Julian , called the order of the Pear-tree , Ferainando the second King of 〈◊〉 , and Gallicia , being the first great Master . 1176. Knights of the Band. SIR William Segar attributes the originall of this Ordsr to Alphonso King of Spain , an . 1268. But Favin sets it down in an . 1330. from the testimony of Don Antonio de Guevara , Bishop of Mondognedo ; But by the same person Alphonso the eleventh , of which Order ( that it might receive the more reputation ) he enrolled himselfe and his Son. And yet ( as Favin sayes ) None were to be admitted but younger brothers , and mean Gentlemen of poor and slender sufficiency , who must have been ten years followers of the Court ; or at the least had fought three times against the Moors . They wear a red Scarfe or Ribon , crosse the left shoulder , like our Knights of the Bath , the breadth of three inches . Their articles are too many to be inserted here . Sir William Segar and Favin have them at large . D' Avis in Portugal . THere was an Order in Portugal , erected in the year 1147. called D' Avis , by Alphonso the first , who were seatrd in the City Ebora , and so called from the Virgin Mary , being Patronesse of the City . They had a great Master , and were called Fratres , and the place of their convention was called Frieria . Their Ensign is the same Crosse with Calatrava vert , and in the centre of it a Pear-tree . Of the Order of Jesus Christ. SInce , in the year 1320. was erected another Order of more esteem amongst the Portugals called of Jesus Christ , by Dionysius King of that Country , and nephew to Alphonso the tenth of Castile ; to which Order was given much of the revenue of the Knights Templars , that lay in that Countrey , the Kings of Portugal are ever the Soveraigns of the Order to this day : The Ensign of the Order is a red crosse surmounted or intersected with another white , on a black vestment ; and they have many priviledges , and Articles amongst them . Of this order was Don Pantaleon , ( Brother to the Portugal Embassadour ) who was beheaded at Tower-Hill , July 10. 1654. Knights of Montesia . THis order was much about the time of those of Calatrava and received their name from the place of their residence in Valentia , and do wear for their Ensign a plain crosse Gules . This order was established in the year 1317. and had much of the revenue of the Knights Templars also , setled on them . Knights of Redemption : THese Knights called of Redemption , were erected by James King of Aragon , upon the conquering the Islands of Majorica , in the year 1212. Their Articles are many , but the chief is , they are to redeem prisoners ; from whence their title is derived : their habit is a white garment , with a black crosse ; and their Governour is alwayes resident at Barcco , na . D'Espuella D' Orada , or , Of the Goldeu Spnr. THere is another Order in Spain , of far more honor called 〈◊〉 D' Espuella D' Orada . Which was created with much ceremony ; as bathing ( like our Knights of the Bath ) , then being laid on a rich bed , after brought to the Chappel or Church , where he performs his Vigils , confesses , and supplicates for power to observe the duty belonging to the order ; then his gold spurs are put on , and a sword girt about him , and the sword being drawn , is delivered into his right hand ; in which posture standing , he takes an Oath , never to refuse to dye in defence of his Law , King , and Country . And then receiving a kisse from all the rest of the order , in testimony of the amity betwixt them , he is compleat . Other orders there are there , as that of Cavaleri Armadi , Cavaleri 〈◊〉 Alarde , and some more antient ; as the Order os the Dove or Holy Ghost in Castile ; of St. Saviour of Mont Real in Aragon ; but these are either out of date , or of low reputation . Knights of the Annuntiation . THis Order , saith Sir William Segar , was erected about the same time with that of St. Michael , but how I shall engage my faith to this article I know not ; for I find much uncertainty in the relation , the institution of St. Michael being in an . 1469. according to his own account ; and of the Annuntiation , an . 1434. Besides , there is a greater error yet , in computation ; for Monsieur Favin , ( who hath some reason in this case to be understood , aud hath been esteemed authentick ) affirms it to be by Amedis the fifth , called also the Green , or Verd : whom he Chronologizes to live in an . 1355. which makes a vast difference : and again Aubertus Maereus , in his Symbola Equest . Ordinum gives the honor of its birth to Amedis the sixth , Earl of 〈◊〉 : by which I must confesse so great an uncertainty appears , as affrights me from any conclusion ; but that by their general 〈◊〉 , defacto , I am assured such an Order was . And that in memory of Amedis the fifth , who most couragiously defended Rhodes against the Turks , where he took the bearing of Gules a plain crosse Argent , which the Dukes of Savoy have continued till this day . This order was first called of the snares of love , from the receiving from his Lady the favour of a bracelet made of her hair into love-knots , and it was constantly celebrated on St. Maurices day , who is Patron-Saint of Savoy . He composed it to consist of fifteen Knights , comprehending himself a chief Master . The place of their celebration is the Church of Pietra , in the Castle of Bellies ; unto which at the institution of this Order was given certain lands for the maintenance of fifteen Chaplains : and continually every Knight at his death gives to the Church an hundred Florins . And one other Article was , that at the funeral of every Knight ceremoniously performed at the Castle of Pietra , every Knight of the order should wear black ; ( whereas their mourning was a white Gown ) and leave off the Collar for certain dayes : and that at the enterment of the Soveraign , every Knight according to their seniority in order should offer up his Collar . Every Knight was sworn to wear this order dayly , and to accept of no other . And that no person stained with reproach or dishonor should be admitted : or if found so after , to be degraded . Of these past Knighthoods , these four , of the Garter in England ; the Toyzon in Burgndy ; St. Michael , and of St. Esprit in France ; and this of the 〈◊〉 in Savoy , are the most honorable , and yet in being . Of the Knights Templars . THis Order as it hath been most famous in the world ( though now extinct ) I think ought to be preserved with an honorable memory . It was erected in a pious design , perpetrated with a glorious fame ; though extinguished in an ignoble and injust stratagem , of the Devil , the Pope , and the King of France . Its first rise was from an accident of certain Gentlemen meeting in the Holy Land , ( some say nine ) an . 1117. Who hearing of the great disturbance of the Country by the incursion of Turks and swarmings of Pickaroons , engaged a confederacy , with the hazzard of their lives to suppresse them . Which resolution being known was so approved of by the Patriarch , that he commanded accommodation for them in the Temple neer the Sepulchre . And the King of Jerusalem appointed them all appertinencies for so religious an enterprize . From whence they received the name of Knights-Templars . And thus going on with much resolution and courage ; many Christians came in to thrir assistance , and many brave exploits were performed by them : Insomuch that in nine years time they had erected such a structure of honor , as set all the world at gaze , and establisht their Countrey in a happy peace . For a reward whereof , Pope Honorius , at the suit of the Patriarchof Jerusalem , prescribed unto them a peculiar Order of life ; and distinguished their order by wearing a white Garment , and Pope Eugenius added a red Crosse ; after which prosperity they elected a Head whom they called Great Master . Yet not long after this , Jerusalem and a great part of the Countrey was lost for want of supply from other parts of Christendome . However they still made war upon the Turks for 120. years , and added new breath to the Trump of Fame , purchasing large revenues to the Order in most Kingdoms of Europe , being the exercise of love in all Christian Princes , and of emulation in every Heroick spirit : Insomuch that Vitriacus gives this character of them : they were , saith he , Leones in bello , agni mansueti in domo , in expeditione milites asperi , in Ecclesia vel ut Eremitae & Monachi ; inimicis Christi duri & feroces , Christianis autem benigni & mites , &c. But this great glory could not shine for ever , without an eclipse ; nor such favorites of fortune live without envy , as well as emulation ; and their fall was so much the more sodain and violent , by how much their fame was higher . For in England , France , and almost all parts of Christendome , was it at an instant ( as it were ) and in one very day , by sentence of Pope Clement the first , ( to satisfie the the base avarice of Philip de Beau the Roy of France ) totally disolved and supprest . The pretence was upon certain Articles exhibited against them ; which have been by all the world , almost not only adjudged false , but ridiculous . As that they used Pagan ceremonies in the election of their great Master : that they lost the Holy Land , ( when they alone endeavoured to preserve it ) : that they held some Heretical opinions : that they worshipped an Image apparelled in a mans skin : and that they drunk mans blood to confirm their oath of Confederacy . When indeed itwas most certain , that the crime for which they suffered was their vast wealth ; and their fidelity to the Patriarch , whom they owned before the Pope : cause sufficient to set the one to solicite , and the other to grant , a monstrous doom , which they suffered under ; for what will not pride and avarice do ? The Great Master himselfe and sixty others of the Order were commited to the mercy of fire in Paris at one time , and the rest persecuted , if not executed , in most places ; all of them dying without any acknowledgement of any one allegation , and with the same Christian and heroick spirits they had lived in , and by the account of Favin ( a French writer and one I think in this not too impartial ) there was , at twice after , one hundred or above burned to death in Paris , all dying with innocence in their mouths ; and in the same place many after . But as such notorious evils are ever the Ushers of God's infinite judgements , it was not far off here : for the two Knights imployed in the accusation , were one hanged , and the other slain , in a short time after . How the Revenues prospered in the hands of the new possessors , I know not ; or the possessors in the enjoyment of them ; but I believe like those of Church lands in this Nation : And the account of stories and traditions I have seen and heard in particular of it , makes me with confidence say , Very unfortunately . Many of their Territories and Castles in some places were given to an order of Knighthood called the Joannites , Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem , and particularly in England , who were after Knights of Rhodes , and lastly of Malta , being conferred by Act of Parliament , ( how taken from them I cannot say ) , and in Vienna by order of a great Councel . Of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem , Rhodes , and Malta . SOme have been of opinion that this Order was originally from the time of the Holy War , an . 1099. When , by the conduct of one called Peter the Hermit , Robert Duke of Normandy , Son to William the Conqueror , Godfrey Duke of Lorrain , and some other Noble persons , Jerusalem was 〈◊〉 from the Saracens ; being called Knights of St. John Baptist and of Jerusalem . But it is more certainly related , that certain 〈◊〉 Christians going to visit the Holy Sepulchre , obtained leave of the Caliph of Egypt , to build a little Cottage to live in by it : paying a due tribute for their liberty as for their own residence , and for the entertaining such as should adventure to joyne with them in their devout life ; which , Monsieur Favin relates to be Neopolitans . After this , their number so encreased that they built another to entertain women , more large and stately ; and enlarged their Oratory ; and another for men in the nature of a Colledge or Hospital , where they established a Rector or Master , and from the great charity among them , their religious life , and good deeds to Pilgrims , they were called brethren Hospitallers of St. John Baptist of Jerusalem . And upon the Conquest of the Ciry , they had great Franchises granted them , and large revenues , with liberty to mannage armes , and were instituted to be Knights of St. John , An. 1164. And for their distinction they wore a black garment , with a white ankerd Crosse , with eight points ; but in War they wore a red Coat of Arms with the same white Crosse See the example of the Crosses at the end of this discourse . After their successe in the Holy War grew very famous , and that they had done very great exploits , almost over all Palestine ; in the year 1308 , they wonne the City of Rhodes from the Turks . And as valiantly maintained it against them afterwards , who four times 〈◊〉 it in vain ; and the fifth time also was O taman himself repulsed , with the losse of 40000 Mahometans . But being constantly oppressed , and not encouraged with any reliefe from the Christians of other parts , after three moneths siege they lost it , and ever since have remained in Malta . Into this Order no man was admitted but he was first to approve himself a Gentleman before the Rector . The Son of a Moore was not to be admitted , nor of a Jew or Mahometan , though the Son of a Prince , and a Christian himselfe : and they were sworn to fight for the Christian faith , to do Justice , defend the oppressed , relieve the poor , persecute the Mahometans , live vertuously , and protect Widows and Orphans . Of Knights Teutonicks . THis order of the Teutonici was founded by an Almain , who remaining in Jerusalem , after the taking of it , gave great and liberal entertainment to all Christians that came to him , and in a short time had drawn such a resort ; that from thence arose a Fraternity that bound themselves under certain Articles , and elected a great Master or Governor ; every man of that association , apparelling himself in white with a black crosse pattee voyded with a crosse patonce . Which Fraternity afterwards grew a very great Order ; and purchased a noble fame : But Jerufalem being taken by the Turks again , they removed , and pitcht their settlement in Ptolemaida ; and that being also taken by the Saracens , they retired to Germany ; and engaging a War against the Prusians , they got great victories , and having the Emperours Grant for enjoying what by the sword they wonne , with expence of some blood , they purchased great revenues in Prusia : and built many illustrious 〈◊〉 , with Churches , and some Cathedrals , establishing Bishops to them , whom they enjoyned to wear the habit of the Order : this was about the year 1220. Frederick the second , being then Emperor . The chief Church appropriate to this Order is Marcenburg . The Knights besides their large possessions are Lords of Livonia , and they have a Governour , which they still call the Great Master . Knights of St. Sepulcher . THis was antiently an honorable Knighthood , but it is since extinguisht , and nothing but the memory of it remaining , and that inclusively in those of Malta . The Ensign of the Order is yet extant amongst them , as a relique of antiquity ; which is a double Crosse , 〈◊〉 , as it were , two conjoyned Gules , as 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Segar relates : But Favin speakes 〈◊〉 , as that their Crosse was a Crosse 〈◊〉 , in each Canton of the same a small Crosse plain ; being the same as the armes of the Kings of Jerusalem : and from this originall that Godfrey of Bullein gave great goods to 〈◊〉 , especially in his last Will and Testament ; by which also he ordained that himself , and the successors Kings of Jerusalem , should be buryed in their Cathedrall Church , which was joyning to the Sepulchre ; that their Patriarch should have the Prerogative of crowning them . And Baldwin his immediate successor establisht them an Order of Knighthood , ( being before put regular Chanons ) appointing the Patriarch of Jerusalem their Great Master : Thus Favin relates . Knights of St. Mary . THese were a religious Order , erected by certain Gentlemen of 〈◊〉 , and Madona ; for which they obtained a licence of Pope Urban , but with mony only , calling themselves Knights of St. Mary , but were commonly called Cavaleri de Madona ; and indeed properly enough , for whereas they professed to fight against Infidels , they lived allwayes at home in peace , plenty , and ease , for which they gained the heroick character of Fratres gaudenti , or good-fellow Brethren . Their habit was very rich , and on it they wore a Crosse , like that of St. John of Jerusalem . Knights of St. Lazaro . THe Knights of St. Lazaro challenge a great antiquity , so high as St. Basil ; They had great possessions , and honorable reputation ; but , like the Knights Templars , were suddenly eclipsed , and had as absolutely been smothered in the Funeral croud of obscured honor , had not Pope Pius Quartus a little revived them . This Order does own obedience to a great Master also , and are engaged to the observance of many Articles ; especially they are to be of lawful birth , and Gentlemen by double descent , and of Christian parents ; to wear a green Crosse in the manner of a Crosse Pattee fimbriated , as Sir William Segar describes ; but Aubertus Maereus otherwise , as is exemplified hereafter . Of the Knights of the Bear , called also of St. Gall. IN the year 1213. the Emperour Frederick the second , going in Pilgrimage to the Abbey of St. Gall , gave great priviledges in acknowledgment of their assistance in pulling down the Emperor 〈◊〉 , and establishing him . Whereupon also he established an Order of Knighthood , called of the Bear ; which Knights were yearely to meet at the Abbey of St. Gall , on the 16. of October ; where all new Knights were to receive the order from the Abbot . This Order he called of the Bear in honor of St. Ursus that was martyred at Soleure . Unto this Order he gave a collar and 〈◊〉 of gold , at which hung a figure of a Bear enamelled Sable . Of the Order of the Elephant . IN Denmark is a Military order , called of the Elephant , and also of the blessed Virgin Mary : who have for their Collar a chain of gold interwoven with Elephants and Spurs , and at it hangeth a meddal of the Virgin Mary , encompassed about with Rayes of the Sun ; at the neather part whereof hangeth another circle enclosing three nayles , which 〈◊〉 term Symbola omnia Christianae 〈◊〉 . Who was the Founder is left 〈◊〉 : the Elephants are figured with Castles on theis backs , which some doe suppose to be the 〈◊〉 or designment of Christernus . 4. Of the Order of Mantua . JN Mantua , some Fryers doe report to be some of the bloud of our Saviour kept , with a piece of the Spunge in which he received the Vinegar and Gall. Which Reliques they say , doe daily work extraordinary miracles . In honor of which bloud Vincentio de Gonzaga , fourth Duke of Mantua , did institute an Order of Knighthood , calling them Knights of the bloud , of our Saviour Jesus Christ , making himself the Great Master of the Order ; which was confirmed by Pope Paul the fifth . The originall of it was about the year 1608. when he created fifteen Knights , giving them collars composed of Ovals of Gold , some the length one way , others another ; in one of which were these words , Domine probâsti ; and in the other , flames of fire , flashing about a crucible or melting-pot full of sticks of Gold ; and at the same hangeth before another large Oval , wherein are designed two Angels standing upright , holding a Chalice , and pix , crowned ; on the table of it , are seen enamelled 〈◊〉 drops of blood ; And about this Oval is this Inscription , Nihil I sto triste recepto . Knights of St. Stephano . THis Order was erected in the year 1561. by Cosmo Duke of Florence ; ordaining amongst them such articles almost as those of the Order of Malta : their residence is Pisa ; where the said Duke erected a Church to the honor of the Order , and is himselfe the Great Master . Other Orders of Knighthood there are , and have been in the Holy Land , and other parts : As of St Thomas Apostle ; St. Katherine of Mount Sinai : Of the white Eagle in Polonia : Of the Swan in Cleveland : The Brethren Sword-bearers in Livonia : Of St. Blase in Armenia : Of St. John of Acres , and of St. Gerian , which was instituted by Frederick 〈◊〉 , to which order none were admitted but Germaine Gentlemen . But these are all , or most of them , out of date , and not so considerable as to trouble an ingenious brain with , in this place . Favin and others have discoursed enough of them , to which ( if the reader be desirous of further knowledge ) I refer him . There is also another Order called of the white Dragon in Germany , erected by the Emperour Sigismond , upon a resolution of extirpating heresie and schism throughout all his Dominions , who had for their Ensign a white Dragon : and in Swethen another , which is called of the Seraphins : who had at their institution appointed them collars of Seraphins heads , intermixed with Crosses . And now , if I have not been too tedious in this discourse of Knighthood , I have I hope said enough , and conclude with the description of the severall forms of their Crosses before mentioned . The first is of St. Esprit , the second , of St. Michael , the third of Calatrava , the fourth of St. John of Jerusalem , the fifth of St. Lazarus the sixth of the Teutonicks , the seventh of St. Andrew , the eighth of the Sepulchre , the ninth of Christus d' Avis . And so I take leave of Knighthood : and in the next place only cursorily run through the antiquity of Heralds , and the Inns of Court and Chancery with their foundations ; for which last ( though not very pertinent to my businesse , ) yet I may expect an excuse , since it hath nor yet been any way done . The End of Knighthood . OF HERALDS . THe word Herald ( saith Verstegan ) is derived from the Saxon 〈◊〉 , and by abbreviation 〈◊〉 ; and Herald which in that language signifies the Champian of an Army : and growing to be a name of Office , it was given to him that in the Army had the 〈◊〉 charge of challenging to battail or combat . Sir Henry Spelman cals him Nuncius sacer , and speaking of the signification of the word , says , quidam enim Herault 〈◊〉 , some doe write Herault , that is , Dominus celsus , an eminent Lord , some Herold , which is an old Lord ; and some Heral , hoc est , says he , ministrum 〈◊〉 , an Officer of an Army , which last he supposes the most proper . These are Officers of great antiquity ( saith Dune mensis ) who writes that they are as ancien as Kings , and were tearmed of the Romans , 〈◊〉 , & Caduceatores . And doubtlesse thee ection of our Heralds was in imitation of them ; though their authority be not so great with us , as it seems theirs was ; whose Office was established by Numa Pompilius and a colledge or hostell erected of twenty wise and reverend men ; per quos fiebat , ut Justum indiceretur Bellum , & ut Foedere , fides pacis constitueretur : ordering that it was and should be unlawfull to take armes against an enemy without their consent and appointment . Which Fecialians , when the popular Estate was changed into a Monarchy again , wore the Coats of Arms of Purple and Scarlet , fringed with gold , and an Eagle of the same embroydered thereon , and the Emperors name then reigning : and they had one Principall which was called by the people Pater patratus , whom they ever reverenced as sacred , and it was a rule or law among them , that Fecialium sacra violare , nefas erat . Since when , as the Office now is , they have been esteemed as Embassadors , and sometimes have been made so ; however , are the Messengers of Princes and great Monarchs , and what ever their message have been , priviledged in the same degree with Embassadors , and not only in our parts , but all over the world have been in being ( though not as now in regular Office ) ever since there have been Kings . In every City of Greece ( as saith Ulpian the Interpreter of Demosthenes ) they were called Ceryces , and had in much honor of all men , and maintained out of the Publique Treasury . In Rome , and most other places they carryed as Ensignes of their Office 〈◊〉 Rods in imitation of the Poeticall fiction of Mercury , who is styled the Herald of the Gods : those of Rome wreathed with two Serpents ; and the ancient Druides of wreaths of Vervine , imitating the same . In France , ( where a long time this office hath been in much honor ) not only 〈◊〉 St. Dennis the principal King of Arms ; but the other Heralds , and Pursevants are to be of noble 〈◊〉 ; and Mountjoy to be of three descents , as well of his Fathers as of his Mothers side , of Noble linage , and Coat-Armor . Their Office or Colledge is in the Church of St. Anthony the lesse in Paris . And they are allowed the priviledge of entrance into any Prince's Court ; and an injury offered to them is a publique injury in all parts of the world . But I do not finde they were in this 〈◊〉 and establishment , till the time of Philip de Valloys . The revenues of them in France was very great , as to Mountjoy in particular 2000. l. Lands in free tenure , and 1000 pound per annum stipend , as Favin relates . And the others 1000 pound per annum stipend , besides , other profits ( and they are many ) : besides their priviledges are very great , which in the same Author are at large set down : in which Author I cannot but observe the ridiculousnesse of their humor in the christening of their Pursevants ( for they call it christening , and the Ceremony is performed with the powring a pot of Wine on their heads ) ; they name them at their own pleasure , and some they call Plain-way , Jolly-heart , No-lyar , Tell-troth , Chearfulnesse , Fair-seeming , Loftyfoot , and the like . But to come neerer to our own concernment , I think to proceed with the same Office in our own Nation , where they are now in lesse esteem , I confesse , then they have been in former ages ; yet have ever been honored with messages between Potentates for matter of Honor and Arms. Ceremoniarum Ministri , as in the Coronation of Kings and Queens , enstalment of Princes , and creation of Noble dignities of honor , in Triumphs , Justs , Combats , Marriages , Christenings , Interments ; and to attend all solemn Assemblies of State and honor , and by some of them ought the proclamations of all great matters of State to be promulged , causes of Chivalry , and Gentility are referred to their care , as in the right of bearing of Arms , in Shields , Scutcheons , Targets , Banners , Penons , Coats , and such like ; correcting of Arms in visitations : and observing descents and pedigrees of Noblemen and Gentlemen . They are the Protonotaries , Griffiers , and Registers of all acts , and proceedings in the Court of the High 〈◊〉 and Lord Marshall of Engiand , or of such as have their authority ; and in their books and Records they are to preserve to perpetuall memory all facts and memorable designments of honor and Arms. They have been long establisht in England ; but I find not that they were incorporated into a Collegiate Society till Richard the third's time ; when they were incorporated by Charter , and placed at Coleharbor , from whence they often removed , untill they became setled , where now at this time they are placed , by the honorable endeavour of that Illustrious family of the Howards , formerly Dukes of Norfolk , and Earls Marshals of England ; the house being before called Darby house . Which was established to them in the time of King Philip and Queen Mary , and in these tearms incorporated ; by the names of Garter King of Arms of England ; Clarenceux King of Arms of the South parts , and the Heralds and Pursevants for ever ; and to have and use a common Seal to purchase Lands to sue and be sued by . Edward the sixth in his third year granted them many priviledges , viz. In these words : Forasmuch as sundry records and testimonies of great antiquity , and of no lesse credit have now lately reduced to our perfect knowledge the Kings of Armes , Heralds , and 〈◊〉 of Arms elected as persons vertuous , and for their good qualites , knowledge , and experience to serve in the affairs of the Common-wealth , have been alwayes heretofore by Emperors , Kings , and Princes of Christian Realms upon most worthy and just considerations not only maintained and supported , as well with yearly stipends and pensions , as daily profits , advantages , and commodities , sufficient to the necessity of the decent and convenient living of them and theirs in honest state . ( Which daily profits , advantages , and commodities are now lately much decayed , to their hindrance , especially in this our Realm ) but also have been by the said Emperors , Kings , and Princes , enriched and adorned , time out of mans memory , with divers kinds of priviledges , liberties , and franchises ; as , among others , that they and every of them be free , exempt , quite , and discharged not only from subsidies , dismes , fifths , tenths , reliefs , contributions , taxes , profits , grants , benevolences , and generally from all other manner of charges , as well in time of War as Peace , in all such Realms and Dominions , wherein they made their demour ; but also in all Market Towns , and all other places , from Tolls , Fines , Customes , Impositions , and Demands ; and aswell from Watch and Ward in all Cities , Towns , and Castles , Borroughs , and Villages ; and from the election or appointment to any Office , of Mayor , Sheriff , Bayliffe , Constable , Scavenger , Church-warden , or any other publick Office in Citties , Towns , Castles , 〈◊〉 , and Villages whatsoever . And forasmuch also as we understand all Kings of Arms , Heralds , &c. have alwayes heretofore from the beginning of the Office of Arms enjoyed , and do presently enjoy , all and singular the priviledges , liberties , and franchises aforesaid , with many other , in all Christian Realms , without any disturbance , 〈◊〉 , or molestation ; We therefore considering the same , and earnestly minding as well the advancement of the said Office of Arms , as the quiet and honest supportance of our Servants , and Ministers thereof ; do , of our speciall Grace , certain knowledge , and meer motion , by the advice and consent of our most dearly beloved Uncle Edward Duke of Somerset , and our Protector of our Realms and Dominions and Subjects , and of the rest of our Councel , by these 〈◊〉 , not only confesse and generally approve , give , grant , and confirm to the said Kings Heralds , &c. and to every of them and their successors for ever , for us and our Successors , all and singular the premises before recited , although here not recited , as have been of honorable antiquity upon just 〈◊〉 to them granted , by Emperors , Kings , and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 right famous memory heretofore : But 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 especially by these presents , pardon , 〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 utterly for us and our heires , release the said Kings of Arms , Heralds , &c. aswell all 〈◊〉 , sums of money and demands whatsoever 〈◊〉 , assessed , &c. The Officers are thus distinguished . Kings of Arms Garter General & indefinite . Of the south p. of Eng. Beyond Trent northw . 〈◊〉 Norroy Heralds York sometimes styled Dukes of Arms. 〈◊〉 Windsor Lancaste . Richmond Chester Pursevants Portcullis   Blewmantle   Raugh dragon   〈◊〉 croixe .   And there are commonly two Pursevants extraordinary ; whose names , I finde to have varved , therefore I name them not . The Office of Garter was first instituted by Henry the fifth , and though the other received Ordination long before , yet is honored with the precedency ; and , hath the prehemimency in all Charters and Assemblies , Creations of Nobility , and honorable processions , especially all concernments of the order of the Garter either in Elections , or Funerals . The other of Clarenceux and Norroy by 〈◊〉 have power , Clarenceux over all England on this side 〈◊〉 , Norry beyond ; to enter into all Churches , Castles , Houses , and any other places to survey and review all Arms , Recognizances , and Crests ; to make visitations , and to register the pedegrees and marriages of the Nobility and Gentry : and at their 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or upon suit in their Office to punish with disgrace and 〈◊〉 all such as shall intrude so much upon Honor , as to usurp other mens Atchievements , or phansie to themselves new , against the law of Armes ; to reverse and 〈◊〉 them , and to make infamous by 〈◊〉 at 〈◊〉 or Sessions all such as 〈◊〉 unduly take upon them the title of Esquire or Gentleman , and such as shall use , or wear mourning Apparell , as Gown , Hoods , &c. contrary to the Order limited in the time of Henry the seventh , and to 〈◊〉 all 〈◊〉 and other Artificers in the setting 〈◊〉 of Arms. In the execution of which commission they have power to command all Justices , Sheriffes , Mayors , Baliffs , and other officers and subiects to be aiding and assisting to them . And if upon summons any Knight , Esquire , or Gentleman do refuse to come and appear before him , and give an account of their Arms and Gentility , they have power in their respective Provinces , to summon them by a Suppaena of what penalty they think sit , before the Earl Marshal of England for their 〈◊〉 therein . And they have the ordering of all Funerals of the Gentry within their respective Province , from a Baron downwards , taking other Heralds in their courses with them . As also the ordering of all Combats , Lists , and Triumphs with the Fees belonging to them : And they have for stipend out of the Exchequer 100 marks a piece annuity . The six Heralds are all in equall degree , only preceding according to the seniority of their creation ; their Patents , being under the 〈◊〉 Seal of England , and their annual stipend is forty marks , besides theirs profits and Fees , The 〈◊〉 have their Patents in like 〈◊〉 , a stipend of twenty pound per annum , out of the Exchequer ; but those extraordinary have neither Patent nor Fee. The Arms of the Office is Arg. a Crosse 〈◊〉 between four 〈◊〉 , Azure . The whole Company are subordinate unto the High Constable or Earl Marshall of England , and by him every of them is at his first entry commended to the King , by a Bill signed with his hand . Which done , the King signes the same , and so it passes the Privy Seal and broad Seal ; and , that once obtained , they are to be 〈◊〉 and created by the King himself , or the Earl Martiall , in 〈◊〉 following A King of Arms is brought into the King 〈◊〉 Lord Marshall , led between a King and a Herald , or two Heralds , in their Coats ; the other Heralds 〈◊〉 Pursevants going before in their Coats carrying the severall necessary instruments to 〈◊〉 used : on 〈◊〉 the Coat of Arms wherewith 〈◊〉 new King is to be invested , another 〈◊〉 Crown ; another the Patent ; another he 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ; another the Book and Sword : another the Book where his Oath is received ; all making severall 〈◊〉 , and then he kneels down with those two that led him ; one of which holds the Book and 〈◊〉 whereon he swears , the other speaks his Oath ; then his Patent is read ; and at the word Creamus , and Investimus , his Coat is put on ; and at non violante nomine , &c. the the water is poured on his head , and then he is perfect . There is belonging to this Office a Register , Marshal , and other officers and servants ; and , amongst those Painters called Heralds-Painters , every King of Arms hath power to Commission one whom he pleases , as appropriate to his businesse : and so much for Heralds . And thus much for Heraldry . The Names of the several Houses and Innes of Court , Chancery , and other Hostels in and about the City of LONDON . Two called Serjeants Inne 1. In 〈◊〉 . 2. In Chancery lane . The two Temples Inner Temple . Middle Temple . Lyncolns Inne . Grays Inne . Innes of Chancery Davies Inne . Furnivals Inne . Bernards Inne . Staple Inne . Cliffords Inne . Clements Inne . New Inne . Lyons Inne . Chesters , or Strond Inne . The six Clerks Office or Inne . Cursiters Inne . The Rolls , Doctors Commons . Gresham Colledge . The Exhequer Office : Osbournes Office. St. Kather. by the Tower. The Inns of Court and Chancery in their order . FIrst it is to be understood the four Colledges or Innes of Court , may be tearmed Collegia Jurisconsultorum , that is , Colledges of Lawyers . The Romans did call such houses Diversoria , ordained to entertain strangers , which in our English are called Inns : and have been acknowledged with us in England , to be the residing houses of the Noblest Peers , viz. Oxford Inn , Warwick Inn , Ely Inn ; and now called Oxford house , Warwick house , and Ely house : Somewhat according to the French , whose houses of Nobility ( in Paris ) are called Hostels , ( in Latine Hospitium ) in English , Inns. In London and thereabouts , there are fourteen , two Serjeants Innes , four Innes of Court , and eight Innes of Chancery . The most antient Inne of Court , and wherein Serjeants of Law had their first residence , was sometimes over against Saint Andrews Church in Holborn , and was known by the name of Serjeants Inne : which afterwards came to be the Scroop's , who then were , & have since continued Barons of this land , and it was called Scroops Iune ; which is called by another name , the possession being likewise altered out of that Family . And although the Innes of the Serjeants be somwhat antient for time , as also of modern age too : yet it must be granted , that in respect of some others they must be respected but of a noval foundation . Yet forasmuch as they are receptacles and lodging places of the most reverend Judges , and grave Barons of the Exchequer , and other Judge , in Office , and Serjeants at Law ; they are by way of decency to be reckoned in the first rank . That Hostel or Inne which now is commonly called Serjeants Inne in Fleetstreet , was sometime a Messuage appertaining unto the Dean and Prebends of York . And afterwards purchased by the Judges , and Serjeants at Law that lived in the Reign of King Henry the eighth , for a place of residence for them in Tearm time . And that other called Serjeants Inne in Chancery lane , was somtimes a Mesluage belonging unto the Bishops of See of Ely ; as appeareth by Records . In these said Houses or Innes of Court , commonly called Serjeants Inne , the reverend Judges of this land , and the Serjeants at Law have for many years lived ; and have been lodged within the same ; Being ( in very deed ) although several by distance of place , yet held to be but one entire Society , or Confraternity by the name of Brethren . The Arms of these two Innes of Judges and Serjeants . First Gules two Garbs in Saltyre Or , bands Azure . The Second Or , an Ibis proper , which is a bird neer the colour of a Jay . Next to the two Serjeants Innes in order are the four Innes of Court , that is to say , Inner Temple . Middle Temple . Lyncolns Inne . Grayes Innne . And first of the two houses , or Societies , which are called by the name of Temples or the Templars Inne , The Middle Temple beareth for distinction . Argent on a plain crosse Gules , the holy Lamb 〈◊〉 . The said two Temples or the Templars Inne , are of any other of the Innes of Court the the most renowned and famous for antiquity : They were at the prime and in their original but one entire foundationand body . But in processe of time became divided ; at first founded by a religious and devout Order of Souldiers , called Templarii that is , to say Templars . Which Knights within the Kingdome of England purchased to themselves certain Lands in Fleetstreet , bordering upon the shore of the River Thames , and thereon ( wit hin a short time ) built a large Edifice , and withall a round Synagogue , like unto a Chappel or Temple , as it is now standing ; and was by Heraclius , Patriarch of Jerusalem , Anno Dom. 1185. dedicated to the service of God ; In which place these Templars by the space of one hundred years lived in great honor and opulency , enjoying large possessions , and those situate in the best places of the Realm ; the like they had in other places ; the Prelate of which Order , was ever a Baron of England . Now after the suppression of these Knights Templars , their Colledge or Hostel came to the hands of Thomas Plantagenet Earl of Lancaster , who being attainted for Disloyalty and Treason , the same became invested to the Crown . And afterwards the Earls Hugo le Dispencer Earl of Chester obtained the possession of the same house ; who for the like transgression was justly attained also , and then it came to Damare de Valence Earl of Pembrook , the Lusignian family in France : who lodged therein but for a small season , so that in the reign of Edward the third , the Sages and worthy professors of the Common Laws of this Realm obtained a long lease of this house for 10. l. per annum . A third part whereof , called the outward Temple , one Doctor Stapleton , Bishop of Exeter , in the dayes of King Edward the second , procured for a residing Mansion to him and his successors , Bishops of that See ; and it was called Exeter Inne : And so continued untill the dayes of Queen Mary , when the Lord Paget , her principal Secretary of State , and obtained the said third part called Exeter house , to him , and his heirs , and did re-edifie the same . After whom the said house , or the third part of the said Templars house , came to Thomas late Duke of Norfolk , and was by him conveyed to Sir Robert Dudley Knight , al. Sutton , Earl of Lieoester , who bequeathed the same to Sir Robert Dudley Knight , his Son ; and lately came by purchase to Robert Devoreux late Earl of Essex , that dyed in the reign of the late Queen Elizabeth ; and it is called to this day , Essex house . And not to omit what is written touching the antiquity of the Coat of Arms belonging to this house ; it is warranted by the same , was , and yet is , to be seen purtraicted in an old Manuscript , written many years since , concerning the foundation of that Order , and which Manuscript now is , or of late was in the custody of the Right Honorable Lord William Howard a lover of Nobility and honorable Arms. It is to be understood that before the Order of Knight Templars assumed to themselves the said Coat Armour they now wear , that they did embrace as to them appropriate this Ensign , A Horse galloping with two Men on his back . The which Ensign was usually engraven on their Signet or Common Seal : It hath been conjectured that the significancy thereof was , that the Originall of this Order began in poverty and want : So that when they were to undertake any expedition of Christian service , they were enforced for want of ability , to ride two of them upon one horse : But it is more truly conceited that the same was rather an 〈◊〉 of Love , and Charity , and was a true Hieroglyphick of an ingenious disposition , and of a 〈◊〉 kindnesse , used amongst noble and free-hearted Souldiers ; whereof none were of greater note then this Order . Who being professed 〈◊〉 and honorable spirits when they should come to the rescue of a Christian Souldier , who might happen to be wounded , or sick , and comfortlesse in the field , they would relieve him , and set him behinde one of them upon his own horse , and by that means conveigh him to some place of safety ; where they should likewise take some speedy course for his relief . Neither was this work of Chariy , only practised by the Christian Knights in those ages ; but it was used by the very Infidels , and Pagans , who also usually were exercised in the same works of Charity , as may be observed , and read , out of the famous and renowned Poet Ariosto ; who relates , that Reginaldo and Fernand , two Knights Charlemaine did fight together , and each of them was mortally wounded , and therefore , they agreed to adjourne the Combate till another day . And that , during the space of the Parly Reginaldo's Palfrey strayed away , and could not be found ; whereupon Fer nand proffered Reginaldo a part of his horse to ride upon , and willed him to mount up behind him , with assurance he would convey him safe to the place he desired , which Reginaldo accepted , and Fernand performed : This History is writ by Ariosto in the Italian language , and not unworthy observation to this intent . The Knights Templars took their originall about the year of Grace , 〈◊〉 . and upon this occasion many Noble men , who were religiously bent , obliged themselves by speciall vows to serve Christ as regular Cannons in Chastity , and Obedience ; and to renounce their own proper will for ever . The first of that Order was Hugo Paganus , and Godfrido de Sancto Hadomaro . Their habit was prescribed by Pope Honorius to be a white habit ; and after , by order from Pope Eugenio , these Knights had their first habitation appointed them by Baldwin King of Jerusalem , neer unto the holy Temple ; there they were ever after saluted by the names of Knights Templars . This Order in processe of time did grow so universally great , that many great 〈◊〉 and Townes of Christendome received their Order of the Knights Templars , as well in this our Nation , as in other parts , where they enjoyed fair revenewes and large possessions ; for in England this University , called the Temple , was the feat and habitation of divers Knights of that Order . But it hath of late by the Princely donation of King James our late Soveraign been confirmed to the professors of the Common Law , under the great Seal of England . The Society of said the Inner Temple hath lately assumed to themselves a Pegasus , whereof in particular I spare to relate any more ; for the same is vulgarly known to all . To the Inner House was also appropriated divers learned Legists from time to time , which in number , continuance , and gifts of Nature , did exceed every other of the said Innes of Court : And therefore was anciently tearmed Inner Temple Boun Pleader . Which continueth to this very day ; and it is withall much esteemed of , beautified , and graced with a special Garden plot , famous for its situation , neatnesse and nearnesse of the River . The Ensign is Azure , a Pegasus Argent . Lincolns Inne . This House , owning a right to the Arms as well as name of the Lacyes Earls of Lincolne , have set up over the Gate the Lyon Rampant purpure ; committing a great mistake in that , if Sir John Fern's account of that Familie of the Lacyes be true , ( which hath passed for authentick ) : for he tels us that Or , a Lyon Rampant purpure was his right ; but it was only a quartering , and not the paternall Coat : for his first and principall bearing was party per Crosse , Gules & 〈◊〉 a bend Sables , over all a file or three Labels Arg. and this was the proper Coat of those Lacyes , the other was the Coat of the Lord Nigeld or Neal , Baron of Halton . This Society of Lincolnes Inne , the next for antiquity , and ancient Ally to the Middle Tenple , is situate in a Street or Lane known formerly by the name of New-street , and now Chancery lane being once the Mansion-house of a Gentleman called William de Havershall , Treasurer to King Henry the third , who for disloyalty to his Soveraign , was by the said King attainted of Treason , so that thereby his house and lands became annext to the Crown . And thereupon the King gave this house to Ralph de Nova villa , vulgo Nevill , Chancellor of England , as appeareth by an ancient Record : Who also was Bishop of Chichester , and kept his habitation or place of abode in that place . This House came afterwards to the hands of Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln , by reason whereof it was called Lincolns Inne and keepeth the style to this day . This Earl Henry deceased in that house about the year of our Lord 1310. Neverthelesse this house did afterwards continue to the Bishops of Chichester untill the 〈◊〉 of King Henry the eighth , and the interest thereof came by conveyance to Justice Gullyard and other Feoffees , who during his life , and after him his posterity , held it untill the reign of the late Queen Elizabeth , and then Sir Edw. Gullyard Knight , ( to whom the same did successively descend by Inheritance ) sold the same with the Inheritance thereof to the Benchers and Society thereof . There is no memory of any florishing Estates of the Students and professors of the Common Lawes resident in this Colledge , until the reign of King Henry the sixth , when it appeareth by the Rolls and remembrances of that house , that the same became somewhat to be famous . But now of late time this house hath been much enlarged and beautified , with ranks of goodly Edifices , and also with a fair and goodly Chappel . The first of the chiefest buildings thereof was begun at the cost of Sir Thomas Lovell Knight , then or before a fellow of that Society , who erected that fair Gate-house into Chancery lane , of brick and free stone , whereupon is engraven the Arms of Lacy Earl of Lincoln , together with his own . The said Chancery lane is so called , for that King Edward the third , in the fifteenth year of his reign annexed the house of Covents by Patent to the Office of Chancery , now called the Rolls . Grays Inne Beareth Sables a Griffin Rampant , Or. This house was sometimes the abiding Mansion of the Noble Family of Gray , from whence the name of the house is deduced . It is situate within the Mannor Poorpoole , a Prebendary antiently belonging to the Cathedral Church of St. Paul , London . In the reign of King Edward the third , the Gentlemen Students of that Society ( as is confidently affirmed ) took a Grant of this house from the said Baron Gray who lived in those dayes . And it is held probable that the Grayes Armes have been anciently by this fellowship maintained ; and are still taken up , and kept as the proper and peculiar Ensigne of that Colledge or house , and thus the same is found portraited . Barry of six Arg. & Azure , a bordure quarterly Or , and of the second . But now of late yeares this honorable Society have assumed for their proper Coat Armor , or Ensign of honor , A Griffin Or , in a field Sables . Thavies Inne Beareth Azure , two Garbes , Or , on a bend Gules . On a Chief Sable , a letter T. Arg. Hereafter ensue the inferior Hostels ordained for Students that professe the practice of the Common Law of this Realm , to the end they may the better obtain unto themselves the understanding of the Principles & grounds of the same Laws ; and be thereby the better prepared for to manage the causes of the Subjects in the severall Courts of Justice within the Dominions , whether at Westminster , or elsewhere : and also by their labour , and Industry to become graduates and be the better enabled to be entred into the Innes of Court. These inferior Courts being Nurseries : and are entituled Inns of Chancery . And first for this Thavies Inne , It is probable that the house by all conjecture is the most ancient of all others of that nature , and it doth in that regard challenge the precedency in this rank . This house was in the raigne of King Edward the third , ( as is by 〈◊〉 to be found ) the dwelling , and mansion house of one John Thavye Citizen and Armourer of London ; and was by the then Apprentices of the Law held of him at a certain Rent annual , as by a Record yet to be seen in the Husting Courts of London , doth appeare and may be verified for antiquity : But since that time the House hath been purchased by the Benchers or the Antients of Lincolns Inne , which about the raign of King Henry the seventh , to the end that there might be entertained in that place a Society of Students , practisers , and Professors of the Common Laws of this Realm . And this house still retaineth the name of the said Thavies , who was the first owner of it , as is before mentioned . Furnivals Inne Beareth Arg. a bend betwixt six Martlets within a bordure Azure . This house was sometime the Mansion of Sir William Furnivall in the raign of King Richard the second , as by Record appeareth . He was afterwards Lord Furnival ; his heir general married to Sir John Talbot , created Earl of Shrewsbury by King Henry the sixth , by reason whereof this Mansion house came to the family of the 〈◊〉 , Earls of Salop : and afterwards of later years , in the raign of Queen Elizabeth , the same house was by the Benchers or the Ancients of Lincolns Inne purchased for the serting into the same a Society of Students of the Common Lawes , from George Lord Talbot Earl of Salop ; as by sundry deeds in the possession of the late right honorable Gilbert Earl of Shrewbury doth appear . Bernards Inne Beareth party per pale indented Ermin and Sab. a Cheveron Gul. fretty . This house was in the thirteenth year of the reign of King Henry the sixth , a messuage belonging to one John Mackworth then Dean of the Cathedral Church of Lincoln ; and in that time in the holding of one Lyonel Bernard , who next before the conversion thereof into an Inne of Chancery , dwelt there . And it hath ever since retained the name of Bernards Inne , or Bernards house . Staple Inne : Port de vert un pacquet de doyne Arg. This House was sometimes belonging to the English Merchants of the Staple , as it hath been by ancient Tradition held . It is of late adorned with a convenient large Garden-plot to walk in , and is at this day rightly esteemed for the most ample and beautifull Inne of Chancery , within this Academy . Clifford's Inne Reareth Checky Or & Azure , of fesse Gul. within a bordure of the third , charged with a Bezanet . This House albeit it followeth in an after rank from the former , yet it is worthy to be reputed amongst the formest , as being in reputation with the best , both for conveniency and quiet situation thereof , as for worth and good government ; It was also sometime the dwelling house of Maccoln de Hersey , and came to the King for debts , and was after sometimes the house of the Lord Clifford , as by Inquisition , which was taken that year , and remaining on Record , doth appeare , which hath these words , Isabella quae fuit Roberti Clifford , 〈◊〉 cum pertinent . quod Robertus habuit in parochia Sancti Dunstani West ' in suburb . Londini &c. tenuit , & illud demisit post mortem dicti Roberti , 〈◊〉 de Bancho pro 〈◊〉 l. per annum , &c. ut pat . per Inquisitionem , cap. 18. Edwardi 3. post mortem dict . Roberti Clifford . This House at this day is the Inheritance of that antient and right honorable family of Cliffords Earls of Cumberland , for which there is an annual Rent still rendered to the Earles of Cumberland for the time being . Clements Inne Beareth Argent , Anchor without a stock in pale proper , entertaining a C. for Clement into the body thereof . This House sometimes was a messuage belonging to the Parish Church of St. Clement Danes , from whence it took its denomination ; neer to this house is that Fountain which is called Clements Well . This Anchor is engraven in stone over the gate of the first entrance into the house , and is an Hieroglyphick , figuring thereby that Pope Clement , as he was Pope , was reputed Caput Ecclesiae Romanae , for the Roman Priesthood , or Anchorage of Christendome , figured by the Anchor , and by the text C. the Sacerdotal dignity . Some hold that the device of the Anchor was rather invented upon this reason ; of the Martyrdome of Pope Clement , as Jacobus de Voragia writeth , that he received his Martyrdome being bound to a great Anchor , and cast into the Sea by the command of the Emperor Trajane . New Inne Beareth Vert , a Flower-pot Arg. maintaining Jully flowers , Gules . This house is so called by reason of its then late or new Creation , being in the reign of King Henry the seventh ; therefore the same is not of late a foundation , as some imagine , which is , that the late dissolution of Strond Inne , being by the Duke of Somerset Uncle to King Edward the sixth , this house in lieu thereof was instituted for the dispersed Gentlemen Professors and Students of the Common Laws of this Realm . It is certain that Sir Thomas Moor Knight , Lord Chancellor of England , in the reign of King Henry the seventh was a fellow student of this Society ; and in the reign of King Henry the eighth , removed his study into that of Lincolns Inne . This house was sometimes called by the name of our Ladies Inne , for that the Picture of our Lady was pourtraicted at the doore thereof . And in the reign of King Edward the fourth was 〈◊〉 by Sir John Fyncaullxe , Knight , Chief Justice of England , or of the Kings Bench , or 6. l. per annum , wherein he placed Students , and practisers of the Common Lawes ; who before that time had a house in the 〈◊〉 Bayly called St. Georges Inne : the passage thereunto was over against St. Sepulchers Church , and by some is reputed to be the first and most ancient of all other Innes of Chancery : but the same house at this day is converted into severall Tenements and Garden plots . Lyons Inne Beareth Checkie Or , and Arg , a Lyon Saliant , Sab. langued and armed Gules . This house received its foundation of modern time ; and lately before the acquiring thereof , it was a dwelling house , known by the name of the Black Lyon ; and in the reign of King Henry the seventh , was purchased by divers Gentlemen , Students , and Professors of the common Lawes : The first Treasurer of this Society was one John Bidwell . The greatest number of this Society are the natives of the West parts , viz Devonshire and Cornwall ; but for the most part Devonshire Gentlemen . Chesters Inne , or Strond Inne Beareth Azure within a bordure Gules , three garbes , Or , in a bend of the second . In the reign of King Henry the eighth , this house ( for that Sir Bevis St. Marrour Knight Duke of Somerset kept there his Court ) was an Inne of Chancery called Strond Inne , and before that time belonged to the Bishop of Chester , after to the Bishop of Worcester , and unto the Bishop of Landaffe , with the Parochiall Church of St. Maries adjoyning thereunto ; All which were swallowed up in An Dom. 1549. for to build an ample and spacious Edifice to the use of the said Duke , the maternall Uncle to King Edward the sixth . The Six Clerkes Office , otherwise called Riderminster's Inne Beareth Azure , two Cheveronels , Or , between three Bezants Arg. charged with . eight pellets . This House though it be not saluted by the name of an Inne of Chancery , as the others are , which are of like name and nature , yet is the same more properly to be called an Inne of Chancery then any of the rest ; for that the Chancery Officers do there reside , namely Attourneys , commonly called the Six Clerks of the Chancery , and are to this day a society of Gentlemen well learned in the Laws : These were at the first Sacerdotall , and therefore called Clerks . And in those days when the Institution of them was first established , they were all of them Church-men . This house was acquired and gotten for the society by one John Riderminster Esquire , a member thereof ; who in his time was a very skilfull and well Learned man , and both faithfull and just , as well to his Client as to his friend . It was antiently the Inne , or the Mansion of the Abbot of Norton in Lincolnshire , and since that time it hath been the dwelling-house of one Andrew Hersfleet , and is most proper to be called an Inne of Chancery , for the Officers of Chancery only reside there : the House is situate in Chancery lane , where the causes appertaining to Chancery are only handled and discust . Cursitors Inne : Beareth Gules on a chief Arg. two Mullets Sables , within a bordure Compone Or and Azure . This Edifice was , in 〈◊〉 dayes of Queen Elizabeth of famous memory , built by the Right Honourable and Grave Counsellor of State Sir Nicholas Bacon Knight , Lord keeper of the Great Seal of England , for the benefit and decency of a new contrived Office , now called Cursitors , therein to lodge and to keep their severall Offices ; These Cursitors have the making of all Originall Writs ; ( according to the Register ) which are sued out , and taken forth in causes commenced by the Students at the common Law. In times past the chiefe Officer of the Court of Chancery was ever a Bishop , and termed Cancellarius , because he sat in Cancellis , that is to say , in Chancels , or places letticed after the manner of Chancels in Churches , as Petrus 〈◊〉 a learned writer hath left to posterity . The Masters of this Court were for the most part Doctors of Divinity , and had Prebendaries in Churches , and other dignities and promotions . The Cursitors , or rather the Choristers , as it befitteth a Chorus , there being no honourable Cathedrall or Collegiate Church la Esglise which can be vvell without them . And in former dayes both antient and modern , the Ghostly Fathers or Confessors were examiners in Chancery , as men held most conscionable , and thereupon fittest for that function . But fince in those dayes all the former Ecclesiasticall persons , are become meerly lay-men , and yet no doubt held to be as Godly , Conscionable , and Honest , as any ; provided ever that they be men of skill , persons who are of great Integrity , and able of understanding . Nam ad pietatem requiritur Scientia . The Colledge called Doctors Commons Beareth Gules on a bend Argent , three treefoils ; within a bordure Vert. The Professors of the Civil Law , or the Imperial , being also in some sort Canonists and professors of the Laws 〈◊〉 , have their Hostels or residing place upon St. Bennets hill , neer Pauls Chain . This house was by the industry and cost of Mr. Henry Harvey Doctor of the Civil or Canon Law , and at that time Master 〈◊〉 Trinity 〈◊〉 in Cambridge , and Dean of the Arches , instituted for the Company and Society of the said Doctors , professors of the same study . Gresham Colledge Beareth Argent a 〈◊〉 Erminoys between three Mullets Sables . This famous work , and most worthy Colledge scituate in Bishopsgate street , had its foundation laid by that worthy Merchant Sir Thomas Gresham Knight , about the year of our Lord 1579. who ordained therein seven Lectures of seven severall Arts to be there publickly read , 〈◊〉 . Divinity , Civill Law , Phyfick , Rhetorick , Astronomy , Geometry , Musick . And this to be performed by seven severall persons , learned professors thereof ; only in the time of the Terms at Westminster . The annual stipendary to every Lecturer is 50. l. by annual pay , and each of the Lecturers hath a convenient lodging provided for his use there in the same Colledge . The Office of the Remembrancers of the Exchequer at Westminster Beareth , Or , a Cheveron Gules , and a Canton Ermin in a bordure Compony , Argent and Azure . This house wherein now the Kings Remembrancer keepeth his Office was sometimes antiently the Inne belonging to the Barons of Stafford , & was in former time called Staffords Inne , which said house , and that other in Ivie-lane , where Mr. Osborn the King's Remembrancer keepeth his Office , or rather the Lord Treasurers Remembrancer , and the house called Hospitium Johannis de 〈◊〉 Laurentio , wherein 〈◊〉 Brainthwait Serjeant at the Law , 〈◊〉 his abode and dwelling in Amen-Corner , the Bishop of Elyes house , now Stationers-hall ; the Three Tuns Tavern , the Bull-head Tavern , the Chamber belonging to Diana , the next house to Doctors Commons called the old Camera 〈◊〉 , were of antient times the lodging for the Residents , and Canons , and Prebends of St. Pauls , who belonged unto that famous Cathedrall Church of St. Paul. St. Katherine's Hospitall Beareth party per fesse , Gules and Azure : in 〈◊〉 a Sword bar-wise Argent , pomelled and hilt Or : in poynt a demy Catharine wheel of the fourth . By the Licence of the Prior of the Covent , and the Society of holy Trinity in London , the said Hospitall called St. Katherines was founded by Queen Matilda wife to King Stephen . The ground whereon this Hospitall is 〈◊〉 , was then the proper inheritance of the said Prior and Covent , and the said Hospitall was after enlarged by Queen Elianor Wife to Edward the first , and after Philippa Wife to Edward the third , founded there a Chancery , and it hath been of late a free Chappell or Hospital for poor sisters . FINIS . ERRATA . Page . 41. l. 4. a mistake in the last quarter of the cut . p. 52. a mistake in the cut , the eighth quarter should have been the last . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A67873-e350 Fern. Glo. Gen. p. 4. Seg. Hon. mil. & civ . l. 4. c. 5. Bartol . de Dig. l. 12. Seld. 〈◊〉 . of Hon. c. 〈◊〉 p. 4. Drus. observat . lib. 3. cap. 19. Psal. 49. 2. Fern. l. gen . p. 9. Pro. 17. 6. Fern p. 13 Fern. Selden p. 856 Aristot. l. 4. de pol. Fern. p. 14 Segar . l 4. p. 226. Bart. l. 1. cap. de dig . 12. Seg. p. 〈◊〉 Ibid. Fern p. 1. Noble by Merit . Nobility mixt , Sir J. Fern. Segar l. 4 c. 15. Seld. Tit. of Hon. c. 8 p. 853. p. 832. Rot. Vasco . 24 Hen. 6. M. 7. N. 3. Sel. p. 870. C. Theod. l. 6. 〈◊〉 . 21. l. 1. Sir J. 〈◊〉 Form. l. 3. p. 382. Edit . Rom. 1621. Seld. Tit. of Hon. c. 〈◊〉 f. 858. Seld. Tit. of Hon. pag. 862. pag. 864. Ibid. p. 865. Sir John 〈◊〉 , p. 37 Ibid. p. 36. Aug. de Civ . Dei. lib. 4. cap. 4 Cypr. lib. de 12. Abusionibus . Sir John Fern. Ibid. Poetrie . Ibid. Painting . Vid. Paul Lomazzo p. 14. History . Sir John 〈◊〉 Ferne. Ibid. Sir John Ferne. p. 61. Ibid. Bart. in l. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . Ibid. li. de capitu . Ferne p. 86. 〈◊〉 . of 〈◊〉 Vid. Fortescue de laud. Ang. cap. 49. Sir John Feine , p. 95. M. Seld. Tit. of Ho. p. 555. * Cam. fol. 176. † lib. 4. p. 507. Ad 〈◊〉 . Brit. Art. 88. Verst . p. 322. Sir Tho. Smith de Rep. Aug. * p. 667. 〈◊〉 Sir John Ferne. p. 100. Camb. de Ordin . p. 117. & de reliquiis p. 23. Spel. Glos. p. 51. Segar p. 224. ibid. Spelm. p. 10. c. 2. ibid. Segar . Ferne. Spel. p. 51. Segar . l. 4. p. 246. Seld. Tit. Ho. p. 769. Camb. Brit. p. 170. Segar . ch . 1 p. 51. Will. of Malmsb. de gest . Reg. l. 〈◊〉 . c. 6. Seld. 〈◊〉 . of Hon. p. 773. p. 778 ; Ibid. p. 779 Bract. 〈◊〉 36. Cook 5. Jacobi part . 6. Selden . p. 772. Mat. Patis Sir 10. Fern Glo. of Genere . Cam. Brit. p. 74. pag. 175. Vid. Stat. de An. 23. H. 6. c. 15. Seg. lib. 2. lin . 2. Vid. Mills fol. S 〈◊〉 . 4 Ed 4. 20 See Stow in Anal. p. 693. & 694. edit . vet . in 4. Dor. Cl. 〈◊〉 20 Hen 7. 20 Sep. For K. of the Bath , see Far. f. 65. 5 Book . Mr. Seld. fol. 790. Camd. Brit. p. 171 Seg. f. 69. Rot. pat . 10. Jacob par . 10. membr . 8. Seld. p. 〈◊〉 Pat. 9. Jac. part 48. Sel. f. 827. Pat. 10. Ja. par . 10. n. 18. Segar . l. 2. c. 3. p. 53. Albert. Rosu dicti . Gloss. p. 79. Bract. lib. 1 cap. 8. Gloss. p. 79. Lamb. fol. 336. Seld. f. 87. Spel. Gloss. fol. 79. Mr. Seld. Title of Hon. ch . 5. f. 699 , 704 Seg. lib. 4. fol. 223. Coke par . 2. pag. 5. Camden . fol. 122. Sel. f. 712. See Mr. Sol. f. 748. Cook 2. part . 80. b. 〈◊〉 pleas . del . Coron . lib. 3. ch . 1. 〈◊〉 Dir 205. & 300 Fitz. nat . br . 165. Lamb. Just. l. 2. c. 1. fol. 17 Dier . 315. 5 Eliz. c. 1 Mills de Nob. pol. vel liv p. 58. Pat. 18. H. 6. par . 2. m. 21. Rat. pet . 4. 〈◊〉 par . 1. Sir Wil. Segar . f. 821. Segar . fol. 220. Instit. par . 2. fol. 5. 〈◊〉 fol. 315. Ib. f 325. Cam. rem . 6. 15. Seld. fol. 605. Ibid fol. 609. Spelman , 〈◊〉 fol. 〈◊〉 . Ib. f. 109. Selden . fol. 639. See Sir Jo. 〈◊〉 . Hon. Mil. & liv . fol. 641. Seld. title of Honor , ch . 5. f. 641. Ib. fol. 646 & Camd. Brit f. 591. Seldens title of Honor , pag. 761. Segar . fol. title of Honor , pars Latina . 〈◊〉 . fol. 219. Segar . fol. 214. Sir John Fern. fol. 138. Ludovic . de Molina de Hisp. primogen . lib. 3. c. 6. Lamb. per. Kent , fol. 364. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . 97. Fetn Glory of Generosity . Segar . 〈◊〉 . Mil. & Civil . Coke 3. fol. 238. Bracton : de acqui . rerum . Dom. l. 24. in 1. 7. 11. Camd. Brit f. 105 See Bract. also , lib. 1. chap. 8. Seld fol. 123. Ingul . hist fol. 484. ib. Ib. f. 510. 26 Hen. 〈◊〉 chap. 1. Sold. Title of Honor. chap. 7. Ibid. f. 44. Ibid. fol. 4. Her. Trismegist . Paus. in Boeoticis . Seld. f. 11. Seld. c. 8. fol. 149. Chopni de Dominio . lib 3. tit . 8. Coke 7. par . Seld. fol. par . 1. c. 8. Ibid. cap 8. Seg. Hon. Mil. & Civ . lib. 4. cap. 6. Jac. Rebust . de dig . lib. 12. Th. Walsingham 17 Rich. 2 Seld. c. 3. par . 1. Seg. fol. 214. See 〈◊〉 . de divin . lib. 2. 〈◊〉 . ad Spartian . Stat. Hyb . 24 H. 8. cap. 12. & 25. Segar l. 4. cap. 4. Leunclavius supplement , annal . Turc . Ann. Chr. 1566. Seld. fol. 906. Coke 8. part . 53. Cart. 21. Rich. 2. mem . 12. num . 18. Pat. 24. Hen. 8. par . 1. Pat. 21. Jac. part . 8 num . 4. Versteg . fol. 413. Bract. l. 3. de Coron . 116. Ib. de acq . rer . Dom. lib. 2. c. 34. Dier's Reports . 283. b. Glory of Generosity . fol. 62. Ibid. Coke 4. part . 118. b. 6. part . 53. b. ibid. Dyer . 79. Coke par . 1. fol. 16. 32 of Ed. 3. 35. in the case of Gilb. Humfrevill Seld. Tit. of Honor , fol. 632. Bed. Hist. Eccl. lib. 2. cap. 5. Ibid. lib. 2. cap. 15. 〈◊〉 . p. 77. See the Statute of the year , 1273. Seld. p. 117 Anno 18. 1. Edw. 1290. Stat. de 〈◊〉 : An. Reg. Ed. 20. An. 36. Ed. 1. An. 37 Ed. 1. & an 7. Rich. 2. Hen. 3. Ed. 4. Rich. 3. Vide Plow . den f. 121. Statute 8. of Hen. 6. cap. 15. Crompt . Courts 16. vid Sta. de An 〈◊〉 H. 6. cap 〈◊〉 . 21 of Ric. 2. cap. 12. Plowd . 221. 6. Bract. initio libri . Brookes prerog . 13. c. 73. & Stamff 72. Dyer 60. Cromptons Courts . fol. 11. Notes for div A67873-e17240 Rules in Blazon . Sir John Fern makes 〈◊〉 . Colours . Segar , Fern , Guillim . Guillim . Favin p. 1. ca. 3. fol. 24 Ib. p. 25. Hon. Mil. & Civ . p. 213. Notes for div A67873-e33010 Heylyn . fol. 325. & 326. Seld c. 5. fol. 792. Fav . fol. 68. & 70. Heylyn . Hist. de St. Geo. cap. 1. fol. 142. Cedton . pag. 650. De vit . Const. l 1. l. 32. Seg. f. 155. Heyly n-Hist . de St. Georg. fol. 318. Geof . of Munmouth . Aubertus Maereus , fol. 145. Lesleus , 〈◊〉 9. pa. 193. Favin . l. 4. fol. 14. Segar . Seld. Title of Honor ca. 〈◊〉 p. 55. Bodin . de rep . lib. 5. cap. 4. Seld. pars : sec. cap 3. fol. 552. Favin l. 3. pag. 372. Hon. Mil. & Civ . lib. 2. p. 87 88 , 89. Fav . lib. 3. fol. 312. & Aubert . Meraeus . pag. 62. Fol. 63. Knights of St. Lazarus . Knights of Mount Carmel . Porcupine . Thistle . Croissant . Ermin . Cock and dog . Seld. pag. 554 , 555. * A Book of devotion full of improbable 〈◊〉 licencedby the Church of Rome . Fau. l. 6. fol. 11. Segar . Favin . l. 6. fol. 138. Ibid. f. 137 Aub Mae . foi . 99. Segar . Favin . l. 6. fol. 142. Ibid. fol. 163 , 164. Aub. Maer . fol. 119. Seg. Aub. 〈◊〉 . Mr. Seld. Title of Honor , fol. 576. favin . l. 8. 〈◊〉 . 310. Segar . fol. 66. Vid. Aub. Maer . f. 77. & 78. Hist. orient . cap. 65. & 66. 〈◊〉 . fol. 92. 7 of Ed. 2. Segar . fol. 66 , 67. Favin . l. 9. fol. 388. 〈◊〉 . l. 2. ol . 105. Ibid fol. 106. Favin lib. fol. 381. Seg fol. 107. Favin . l 7. fol. 273. Aub Maer . lib. 2. f. 79 Ibid. sol . 150. Favin . fol. 392. Notes for div A67873-e41070 Verst . 〈◊〉 . 321. Gloss. f. 336. Vid. Pomp. 〈◊〉 . de magist . Rom. p. 5. Favin . l. 4. cap. 4. Ibid. Ibid. Favin . l. 〈◊〉 . c. 4 f. 36. 
A43536	----	Erōologia Anglorum. Or, An help to English history Containing a succession of all the kings of England, and the English-Saxons, the kings and princes of Wales, the kings and lords of Man, and the Isle of Wight. As also of all the arch-bishops, bishops, dukes, marquesses, and earles, within the said dominions. In three tables. By Robert Hall, Gent. Peter Heylyn, 1600-1662. 1641 Approx. 494 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 189 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2003-01 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A43536 Wing H1713 ESTC R216457 99828188 99828188 32615 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A43536) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 32615) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 1948:15) Erōologia Anglorum. Or, An help to English history Containing a succession of all the kings of England, and the English-Saxons, the kings and princes of Wales, the kings and lords of Man, and the Isle of Wight. As also of all the arch-bishops, bishops, dukes, marquesses, and earles, within the said dominions. In three tables. By Robert Hall, Gent. Peter Heylyn, 1600-1662. [6], 379, [1] p. : ill., port. by T. and R. Cotes, for Henry Seile, and are to be sold at his shop in Fleet-street, over against Saint Dunstans-Church, London : 1641. Robert Hall is a pseudonym for Peter Heylyn. First word of title is in Greek characters. 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Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Nobility -- Great Britain -- Early works to 1800. Great Britain -- Kings and rulers -- Succession -- Early works to 1800. 2002-08 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2002-10 Aptara Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2002-11 Rina Kor Sampled and proofread 2002-11 Rina Kor Text and markup reviewed and edited 2002-12 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion ΗΡΩΟΛΟΓΙΑ ANGLORVM . OR , An help to English History . CONTAINING A succession of all the Kings of England , and the English-Saxons , the Kings and Princes of Wales , the Kings and Lords of Man , and the Isle of Wight . As also of all the Arch Bishops , Bishops , Dukes , Marquesses , and Earles , within the said Dominions . In three Tables . By Robert Hall , Gent. LONDON , By T. and R. Cotes , for Henry Seile , and are to be sold at his shop in Fleet-streete , over against Saint Dunstans-Church . 1641. TO THE MOST EXCELLENT PRINCE , CHARLES , PRINCE OF WALES , Heire-Apparent to the Monarchy of Great Britaine , &c. Most Illustrious Sir , I Doubt not your Closet already abounds ▪ and is daily replenished , with volumes of English History , as those Mirrours , in whose Reflections your Royall Ancestors , you may best discover Theirs , and direct your owne Actions . I therefore humbly addresse this piece to your Highnesse , not as a Booke , but as an Index , which cannot offer the Pompe of● a Volume ▪ yet may yeeld the profit of a Manuall . The work is Posthumus , bereav'd both of the Author and protection ; and had it not desired to live under the Patronage of so clement a Prince , was willing to dye in the Cradle , rather then be expos'd to theadventures of a distempered Age. I referre its merits to the judgement of the Publique ( to whose use it affords it selfe , ) but humbly begges , that being an Orphan , its Fatherlesse condition may finde succour and countenance from the splendour of your goodnesse , under which it hath beene first brought ●orth into the world . Vouchsafe ● therefore ( Great Prince ) to cast a gracious Eye on this deserted●Object , and the poore Oblation of Your most humbly devoted servant and Subject HENRY SEILE . A GENERALL PREFACE , Touching the use of these three Catalogues or Tables . HAving a purpose to peruse our English Histories , and those of forraine Nations which had any intercourse or commerce with the affaires either of this Realme or Church of England : I found it no small trouble to me , to know the names of those , whose actions I encountred within the said perusall . For whereas commonly great persons are not called by the names of their Families , but of their Dignities : it was a matter of no meane difficulty to finde out , what and who they were , who were presented to us by their Dignities , as well Ecclesiasticall as Temporall . Upon this ground , to save me from that troublesome inquirie for the time to come ; I set my selfe to draw up a complete and perfect Catalogue of all the persons of chiefe ranke in this Realme of England , from Earles inclusively and upwards ; so farre as any light of story , and warrantable ascent , would direct and guide me . And having formed it in that frame and order , as hereafter followeth , found manifestly that that paines it cost me , was not ill bestowed ; because of that great ease it did me , being once composed . For then no sooner did I meete in any story , with any , either Prince or Prelate , of , or in this Nation ; but I could forthwith turne unto him : and by computing of the times , finde out exactly who he was . And yet me thought it was not perfect , till I had added to the same all those Soveraigne Princes , which have borne rule in all or any part hereof : the names and actions of the which occurre , as well in our owne Chronicles , as forraine stories . That done , I thought it not amisse , to note and adde , according as I met it in my course of reading , what Kings and Prelates of this Nation have beene ennobled in the Church with the stile of Saints : as also what great offices any of the Arch-Bishops , Bishops , Dukes , Marquesses , and Earles , had severally borne in the Civill State. By doing which , as I received great ease and benefit , as before is said ; so I was easily intreated to let all such partake thereof , who thinke it may be either profitable or usefull to them : and for that cause have suffered it to come abroad , that they that will , may take the benefit of my poore endeavours . And this I have the ra●her beene intreated to , to satisfie the mindes of those ( if any thing will satisfie them ) that either are the enemies of Regall or Episcopall power . For whereas some conc●ive that Kings were instituted by the people , on ●ight perhaps of such confusions as had beene noted and observed in a popular government : these following Catalogues will make it evident and apparent , that in this Countrey there was never any other government then that of Kings either in any part thereof , or the whole together . And whereas it is factiously given out by others , that the Episcopall authority and regiment in and of the Church , is not the proper and peculiar government of the same , but violently obtruded on it by the power of man : the Tables of Episcopall succession will make it evident , that the said forme of Government , is of as long a standing as the Church it selfe ; Religion and Episcopall jurisdiction being brought into this Land together . Lastly , if any such there be , as have beene formerly , that would crie downe Nobility , and that precedencie and power which som● men have above the rest , they may here see , that from the first setling of this Monarchie in the Norman Race , that Kings of England have advanced to place and dignity , whom they thought most fit ; and did it sans controule of inferiour people . And so they did no question in the Saxons times , and those before them : of which if we have no such cleare and evident succession , as in the rest of later ages ; it is because their digties , and honorarie titles were rather personall then hereditary . Now in these Catalogues , I shall begin , as reason is , with that of Kings , from the first entrance of the Romans to this present time : to which I shall adjoyne the Kings and Princes of Wales , as also the Kings and Lords of Man , and the Isle of Wight● : assigning unto every one his time , according to the computation of our best Historians . The Catalogue of the Bishops I shall bring along , from the first planting of Religion here , amongst the Saxons ; since which we have a cleare and undeniable succession in the holy Hierarchy : the former times , under the Empire of the Britons , having transmitted to our hands onely some fragments of antiquity , by which we may perceive that the Episcopall government was here received together with the faith it selfe ; but cannot gather from the same a constant and continued succession of the persons governing . Then for the third Catalogue that of the Nobility , we have continued that from the first entrance of the Normans to this present day ; that at one view a man may see the quality and antiquity of those noble families , which are now both an honour and an ornament to this flourishing Kingdome . I shall not neede say more in this generall Preface , having prefixed particular Prefaces to each severall Catalogue , to which I rather shall referre the Reader , then detaine him here . THE FIRST TABLE , OR , A CATALOGVE OF All the Kings which have reigned in England , since the first entrance of the ROMANS . As Also of the Kings and Princes of Wales , the Kings and Lord of Man , and the Isle of Wight , together with the Princes and Lords of Powys . . Printed at London . 1641. THE PREFACE TO THE CATALOGVE Of the KINGS of ENGLAND . THe Realme of England is th●t Southerne and more flourishing part of the Isle of Britaine : that which was civi●ized by the Romans , and made a Province of their Empire ; when as the Northe●ne parts thereof , were ●ither neglected or not conquered . When it was under the command of the Roma● Emperours , it wanted not its proper and peculiar Kings , over the chiefest and most principall of their Tribes and Nations : it being the custome of that Empire , as ▪ Tacitus hath truely noted , habere servitutis instrumenta etiam Reges . Of these inferiour tributary Kings , those which were in their severall times of more power then others , may probably be thought to have assum'd unto themselves the stile and title of Kings of the Britons : even as in after times , during the heptarchy of the Saxons , those which gave law unto the rest , did call themselves , and were accounted the Kings or Monarchs of the English. But those inferiour petite Kings , being , in tract of time worne out , and almost all the South reduced under the immediate command of the Roman Empire : either the Emperours themselves , or such of their Lieutenants as did here usurpe the regall state , were stiled Kings of Britaine , till Constantine the Great united it inseparably to the Roman Diadem : And in him ended the first line of the Kings of Britaine , according to the British story . The second line of Kings , beares da●e from the departure of the Romans : who being called from hence to looke unto their Empire in the Continent , le●t their possessions here unto the ●ury of the Scots and Picts , who dwelling in the Northerne and unconquered parts ▪ attempted to subdue the Southerne . For the repressing of whose rage the Britons chose themselves a King out of Armo●ica , ( now called Bretag●e ) being extracted from the old British bloud , which had not long before beene planted in that Region , by the Roman Emperours . Whose li4e continued here not long , till they were dispossessed both of Crowne and Countrey , by the Saxons , a German people , called in by Vortiger to oppose the Scots and other Nations of the North. Who having by degrees subdued all that which formerly had beene conquered by the Romans ( the Countrey beyond Severne excepted onely ) divided it amongst themselves into seven Kingdomes ; which finally being all brought under by the West-Saxon Kings , did at last settle , and continues in the name of England . A Kingdome , though of small extent , compared unto the greater Countries of France , Spaine ▪ and Germany , yet of so high esteeme abroad ▪ that it may challenge an equality with either of them , and in some kinde hath had preced●ncie before them . For to the honour of this Realme , as well before as since it had the name of England , we may say thus much . It was the first Kingdome which received the faith of Christ , which was here planted , as it is affirmed by Gildas upon certaine knowledge , toward the latter end of Tiberius Empire . Tempore ut scimus summo , Tiberii Cae●aris , as his owne words are : which by computing of the times , will fall to be five yeares before Saint Peter came to Rome ; and but five yeares after the death of our Redeemer . It shewed unto the world the first Christia● King , whose name was Lucius : and gave unto the Church her first Christian Emperour , even the famous Constantine here borne ; by whose example and incouragement the saith was generally received over all the Empire , and all the Temples of the Idols , either demolished or forsaken . It also was the first Christian Kingdome , out of which the Jewes , those bitter and most obstinate enemies of the Crosse of Christ , were universally expulsed ; and our of which the insolent and usurped Supremacie of the Popes of Rome , was first ejected , after they had a long time domineered in the Church of Christ. The one of these performed by King Edward the first ; the other by King Henry the eighth . Not to say any thing in this place of their warres and victories in France , Spaine , Scotland , the Netherlands , the Isle of Cyprus and the Holy land . In these regards , the Kings of England , as they are a● absolute , so they are as sacred , as of any Countrey whatsoever What ever things are proper unto Supreme Majesty , Scepters , and Crownes , ●he Purple Ro●e , the Glo●e , or golden Ball and Vnction , have beene as long theirs , as any others . The foure first are by Leland , a ●●●ous Antiquarie , ascribed unto King A●thur , who did begin his reigne Anno 506. which was as soon● as they were ordinarily in use with the Roman Emperours . And thi● doth Leland justifie , out of an ancient Seale of the said King Arthurs kept in his time , as an especiall monument in the Abbie of Westminster : As for their Vnction , or Annointing , it appeares by the old Roman Pr●vinciall , and the ancient practise , that of all the Kings of Christendome , there were none anciently annointed but the two Emperours of the East and West ; the Kings of France , England , Sicilie , and Hier●salem . By reason of which Vnction or annointing ( besides what is united or annexed to the Crowne Imp●riall of this Realme ) it was declared Term. Hilarii . 33. Edward 3. that the Kings of England were capaces jurisdictionis spiritualis , capable of Spirituall or Ecclesiasticall jurisdiction . As after in the reigne of King Henry the eighth , it was declared rather then enacted , that the Kings highnesse was the Supreme head of the Church of England , and that he had authority to reforme all errours , heresies , and abuses in the same . 26. Henry 8. cap. 1. Which title or Supreme head , though used by King Edward 6. in a●l his ●eigne , and by Queene Mary for awhile ; was changed by Queene Elizabeth into that of Supreme Governour : and it is now reckoned as a part of the stile of the Kings of England , that they are Supreme Governo●rs in all their Dominions and Countries , over all persons , in all causes , as well Ecclesiasticall as Temporall . Now as the Kings of England are absolute at home ; so are they no lesse honoured and esteemed abroad : the Emperour being accounted filius major Ecclesiae , the eldest sonne of the Church ; the King of France , filius minor , or the second sonne ; and the King of England , filius tertius & adop●ivus , the third and the adopted sonne . In generall Councels , the King of France took place at the Emperours right hand ; the King of England on his left , and the King of Scots having precedencie next before Castile . And whereas since the time of Charles the fifth , the Kings of Spaine have challenged the precedencie of all Christian Princes : yet in the time of King Henry 7. Pope Iulius gave it to the English before the Spaniard . Nay lest the Kings of England might fall short in any thing wherein their neighbour Princes glory , they also have an adjunct or peculiar title annexed unto the stile Imperiall . For where the King of France is stiled Christianissimus , most Christian ; and the King of Spaine , Catholi●us , or the Catholick King : the King of England hath the title of Defensor fidei , o● the defender of the Faith. A title not so much conferred on King Henry 8. by the Popes of Rome , as confirmed unto him . For in a Charter of King Richard 2. unto the University of Oxford , the same stile occurres : for which and other proofes hereof consult the Epistle Dedicatory before Doctor Craca●●horp against the Arch-Bishop of Spalato ; and Sir Isa●c Wake , in his Rex Platonicus . But now we goe unto the Kings . South-Britaine or ENGLAND , The Kings thereof , according to the British story , from I. Caesar unto Constantine .   1 CAssibelan .   2 Theomantius .   3 Cymbeline .   4 Guiderius . A. Ch     45 5 Arviragus , called Pr●●●sag●● by Hector B●●●ius . 73 6 Marius . 125 7 Coilus . 180 8 Lucius , the first Christned King of Brit●ine and the world ; who dying without Children , left the 〈◊〉 Emperours his heire . 207 9 Severus Emperour of Rome . 211 10 Bassianus sonne of Severus . 218 11 Carausius a noble Briton . 225 12 Alectus . 232 13 Aesclepiodorus . 262 14 Coilus . II. 289 15 Helena daughter of Coilus , and Constantius Emp. of Rome .   16 Constantine , sonne of Helena and Constantius : who added , or unite● his estate in Britaine , unto the Monarchy of Rome . South-Britaine or England , the Kings thereof , from the departure of the Romans , unto the setling of the Saxons . A. Ch.     431 1 COnstantine of Ar●orica or little Britaine . 443 2 Constantius sonne of Constantine . 446 3 Vortiger Earle of th● Gevisses , who called in the Saxons . 464 4 Vo●●imer , 〈…〉 471 5 Vortiger ( againe ) 481 6 Aurelius Ambrosiu●●●●cond sonne of 〈◊〉 . 500 7 U●er Pend●●gon 〈◊〉 son of Const. 506 8 Arth●r , son of Vter ●●●dragon . 542 9 Constantine II. next Cousin of Arthur . 546 10 Conan . 576 11 Vorhpor . 580 12 Malgo. 586 13 Careticus . 613 14 Cadwan . 635 15 Cadwallan . 678 16 Cadwalladar . After whose death ( the Saxons having totally subdued all the Countrey on this side the Severne ) ●he British Princes were no longer called Kings of Britaine , but Kings of Wales : of wh●m more hereafter . The Kingdome and Kings of Kent . THe Saxons being called in by Vortiger to resist the Scots , and other people of the North , did by degrees expulse the Britons : and having totally subdued the Countrey , erected in the same seven Kingdomes . Of these the ancientest was that of Kent , confined within that County onely : the Kings these that follow . A. Ch.     455 1 Hengist the first King of 〈◊〉 488 2 Eske or Osca . 512 3 Octa. 532 4 Immerick . 561 5 Ethelbert S. the first Christned King , the founder of S. Pauls in London . 617 6 Edbald . 641 7 Ercombert . 665 8 Egbert . 673 9 Lotharius . 686 10 Edrick . 693 11 Wightred . 726 12 Egbert . II. 749 13 Ethelbert . II. 759 14 Alricus . 794 15 Ethelbert . III. sirnamed Pren. 797 16 Cuthred . 805 17 Baldred , who in the yeare 827. lost both his life and Kingdome unto Egbert King of the WEST-SAXONS . The Kingdome and Kings of the SOUTH-SAXONS . THe Kingdome of the South-Saxons was begun by Ella , a noble Captaine of that people . It contained the two Counties of Sussex and Survey , which were thence denominated : the first so called quasi South sex , the Countrey of the South-Saxons : the second q●asi South rey , as lying on the South of the river T●amise . This Kingdome lasted but a while , and had onely these foure Kings that follow . viz. A. Ch.     488 1 Ella the first King of the So●th-Saxo●s . 514 2 Cissa .   3 Ethelwolf or Edilwach the first Christned King of the South-Saxons .   4 Berthun and Authun two brothers both joyntly reigning , and both joyntly vanquished by Crad●all King of the WEST-SAXONS . The Kingdome and Kings of the WEST-SAXONS . THe third in order of these Kingdomes , and that which did in fine prevaile over all the rest , was that of the West-Saxons . It contained in it the Counties of Cornwall , Devon , Dorset , Sommerset , Wiltes , Southampton , and Berks : the Kings these . A. Ch.     522 1 Cerdicus the first King. 17. 539 2 Kinricus . 29. 565 3 Celingus or Che●line . 10. 595 4 Cel●icus . 5. 600 5 Ceolwolf . 614 6 Kingil the first christned King. 646 7 Kenewalchin . 31. 677 8 Sigebertus . 1. 678 9 Es●win . 2. 680 10 Centwin . 7. 687 11 S. Cedwalla . 3. 690 12 Ina 35. who first gave th● Peter-pence to the Church of Rome . 725 13 Ethelard . 14. 739 14 Cuthbert . 16. 755 15 Sigebert . II. 1. 756 16 Kinulphus . 31. 787 17 Bithrick . 13. 800 18 Egbert , of whom see more in the Saxon Monarchs . The Kingdome and Kings of the EAST-SAXONS . THe Kingdome of East-Saxons is the fourth in order , of the Heptarchie ; begunne in Anno 527. some five yeares after that of the W●st-Saxons . It comprehended the Counties of Essex , Midlesex , and part of Hertfordshire ; the Kings these that follow . A. Ch.     527 1 Erchenwme . 587 2 Sledda . 596 3 S. Seber , tthe first Christned King of the East Saxons ; and first founder of S. Peters in Westminster .   4 Seward and Sigebert . 623 5 Sigebert the little .   6 Sigebert . III. 661 7 Swithelme . 664 8 Sighere . 664 9 S. Sebba .   10 Sigherd .   11 Seofride . 701 12 Offa. 709 13 Selred . 747 14 Suthred , subdued by Eg●ert King of the West-Saxons , and his Kingdome made a member of that rising Empire . The Kingdome and Kings of the EAST-ANGLES . NExt to the Kingdome of the East-Saxons , was that of the East-Angles ; containing in it the Counties of Norfolke , Suffolke , and Cambridge shire , with the Isle of Ely : and had these Kings following . A. Ch.     575 1 Uffa , the first King. 582 2 Titullus . 593 3 Redwald the first christned King. 624 4 Erpenwald . 636 5 S. Sigebert . 638 6 Egric . 642 7 Anna. 654 8 Ethelbe●t . 656 9 Edelwald . 664 10 Alduffe . 683 11 Elsewolfe . 714 12 Beorne . 714 13 S. Etheldred . 749 14 Ethelbert . II. who died Anno 793. 870 15 S. Edmund . After whose slaughter by the Danes , and that his Kingdome had beene long wasted by that people ; it was at last united to the West-Saxons , by King Edw the elder . The Kingdome and Kings of the NORTH-HUMBERS . THe Kingdome of the North humbers , or Northumberland , was the fifth in course of time , of the Saxon Hepta●chy ; it was divided into two parts or Provinces , the one of which was called Bernicia ; the other D●ira : of which the former called Bernicia , was founded by one Ida , Anno 547. the other by one Ella , his fellow and companion in armes , Anno 559. This last contained the whole Countries from the North of Humber to the Twede , viz. the Counties of Yorke , Durham , Lancaster , Westmorland , Cumberland , and Northumberland : the other all that part of Scotland , which lieth betweene the river Twede , and the Frith of Edenbourg ; which was as farre as ever the Romans had gone before them . Those Kings of either , which were more powerfull then the other , were honoured with the name of Kings of the North humbers , and are marshalled thus . A. Ch.     547 1 Ella and Ida.   2 Adda and Elappea .   3 Theodwald ,   4 Frethulfe .   5 Theodorick . 589 6 Ethelrick . 593 7 Ethel●ride . 617 8 Edwine the first christned King. 633 9 Osrick . 634 10 S. Oswald . 643 11 Oswy , who having subdued Oswin● King of Deira , was the first absolute King of all Northumberland . 671 12 Egfride . 686 13 S. Alfride . 705 14 Osred . 716 15 Kenred . 718 16 Osrick . II. 729 17 Ceolnulph . 738 18 Egbert . 758 19 Oswulph . 759 20 Edilwald . 765 21 Alured . 774 22 Ethelred . 778 23 Al●wald . 789 24 Osred . II. 794 25 Etheldred . II. After whose death this Kingdome much molested by the Danes , became a Province of the West-Sax●●s . The Kingdome and Kings of MERCIA . THe last and greatest of the seven Kingdomes of the Saxons , was that of Mercia , so called , for that being seared in the middle of the whole Countrey , it was a March or border unto all the rest which abutted on it . It comprehended the Counties of Gl●●cester , Hereford , Worcester , Warwick , Leicester , Rutland , Northampton , Lincoln , Bedford , Nottingham , B●ckingham , Oxford , Darby , Stafford , Shropshire , Cheshire , and that other part of Hertfordshire , which was not under the Kingdome of the East-Saxons . By reason of this great extent of Empire , ●hey were a long time very powerfull , and over-awed their neighbour Princes : till at the last the fatall period being come , it fell into the Armes of the West-Saxons , after it enjoyed these twenty Kings which hereafter follow . A. Ch.     582 1 Cridda the first King of Mercia 593 2 Wibba . 614 3 Cheorl . 626 4 Penda . 656 5 Peada , the first christned King. 659 6 Wulfher● . 675 7 Ethelred . 704 8 Kenred . 709 9 Chelred . 716 10 Ethelbald . 758 11 Offa. 796 12 Egfride . 797 13 Kenwolf . 819 14 Kenelm . 820 15 Ceolwolf . 811 16 Bernulf . 824 17 Ludecan . 826 18 Withlafe . 839 19 Berthulf . 85● 20 Burdred . After whose death this Kingdome having beene shrewdly shaken in a great battell fought near Burford , Comit. Oxo● . wherein King Ethelbal● was vanquished , and his whole strength broken by Cuthbert , or Cuthred , King of the West-Saxons , then his tributary : and after no lesse shrewdly shaken by the valiant Egbert , became a Province of that Empire . The Monarchs of the English-SAXONS . THe Saxons , though they were divided into the seven Kingdomes before named , were for the most part subject unto one alone ; who was entituled R●x Gentis Anglorum , or King of the English Nation : those which were stronger then the rest , giving the law unto them in their severall turnes , till in the end they all became incorporated into the Empire of the West-Saxons . Which Monarchs , who they were , and of whence entituled , is next in order shewne . A. Ch.     455 1 Hengist King of Kent . 481 2 Ella King of the South-Saxons . 495 3 Cerdick King of the West-Saxons . 534 4 Kenrick King of the West-Saxons . 561 5 Cheuline , or Celingus , King of the West-Saxons . 562 6 Ethelbert King of Kent . 616 7 Redwald King of the East-Angles . 617 8 Edwin King of Northumberland . 634 9 Oswald King of Northumberland . 643 10 Oswy King of Northumberland . 659 11 Wulfhere King of M●rci● . 675 12 Ethelred King of Mercia . 704 13 Kenred King of Mercia . 709 14 Chelred King of Mercia . 716 15 Ethelbald King of Mercia . 758 16 Offa King of Mercia . 794 17 Egfride King of Mercia . 796 18 Kenwolf King of Mercia . 800 19 Egbert the son●e of Al●mond , King of the West-Saxons , the first and absolute Monarch of the whole Heptarchy : who having vanquished all , or most of th● Sax●n Kings , and added their estates unto his owne , commanded the whole Countrey to be called by the name of ENGLAND . The Kings wh●reof , after th● Count●●y was so named , are these that follow . The Kings of ENGLAND of the Saxon Race . A. Ch.     800 1 Egbert the 18 King of the West-Saxons , the 19 Monarch of the English , and first King of England . 37. 837 2 S. Ethelwolf 20. 857 3 Edelbald . 858 4 Edelbert . 5. 863 5 Edelfride . 9. 873 6 S. Alured , who totally reduced the Saxons under one Monarchy , and founded the University of Oxford . 23. 900 7 Edward the elder . 24. 924 8 Athelstane . 16. 940 9 Edmund . 6. 946 10 Eadred who stiled himselfe King of Great Britaine . 955 11 Edwin . 4. 959 12 S. Edgar . 16. 975 13 Edward the younger . 3. 678 14 Ethelred . 1016 15 Edmund Ironside . The Danish Race . 1017 16 Canutus King of Dan●mark . 20. 1037 17 Harald Harfager . 4. 1041 18 Hardie Cnute . 4. The Saxons repossessed . 1045 19 S. Edward who founded and endowed the Church of Westminster , and was the first that cured the disease called the Kings-evill , leaving the same hereditary to his successors . 1066 20 Harald the sonne of Godwin usurped the Crowne , and shortly lost both it and his life to boote , to William Duke of N●rmandy . The NORMAN Race . 1067 21 William Duke of Normandy , sirnamed the Conquerour . 22. 1089 22 William Rufus . 13. 1102 23 Henry Beauclerk . 35. 1136 24 Stephen E. of Bloys . 19. The Saxon line restored . 1155 25 Henry II. descended by his Grandmother , from the bloud Royall of the Saxons . 34. 1189 26 Richard Coeur de Lyon. 1● . 1201 27 John. 17. 1218 28 Henry . III. 56. 1274 29 Edward . I. 34. 1308 30 Edward . II. 19. 1327 31 Edward . III. 50. 1377 32 Richard. II. The line of Lancaster . 1399 33 Henry . IV. 15. 1414 34 Henry . V. 9. 1423 35 Henry . VI. 38. The line of Yorke . 1461 36 Edward . IV. 23. 1483 37 Edward . V. 1483 38 Richard. III. 3. The families united . 1486 39 Henry . VII . 23. 1508 40 Henry . VIII . 39. 1547 41 Edward . VI. 6. 1553 42 Queene Mary . 5. 1558 43 Queene Elizabeth . 45. The union of the Kingdomes . 1602 44 JAMES King of Scots , reassumed the title of Great-Britaine . 1625 45 CHARLES by the grace of God , King of Great Britaine , France , and Ireland ; the 63. King in descent from the West-Saxon Cerdick , the 64. Monarch of the English , and 45. King of England in descent from Egbert : whom God long preserve . Kings of WALES . THe Britons being outed of their Countrey by the conquering Saxons , retired themselves beyond the Severn , and therein fortified themselves ; which Countrey thereupon came to bee called Wales , and the people Walsh , or Welch men . Not that the word Walsh , signified in the Saxon language , a Foreiner or Alien , as it is ●conceived ( for how could they be called Aliens in their native Countrey ? ) but Wales , and Wallish , for Galles and Gallish , by changing G into W , according to the custome of the Saxons . The Britons being descended of the Gaules , kept their old name still ; though somewhat altered in the letter , as before is said : and to this day the French doe call the Prince of Wales , by the name of le Prince de Galles . At first their cheifes were honoured with the title of Kings of Wales , a●d are these that follow . A. Ch.     690 1 Idwallo . 30. 720 2 Roderick . 35. 755 3 Conan . 63. 818 4 Mervyn . 25. 843 5 Roderick sirnamed the Great , who divided Wales betweene his three sonnes , allotti●g unto each his partthe Countrey being divided into North-W●les , South-Wales , and Powys-land which had their severall Lords and Princes , as hereafter followeth . The Principality and Princes of South-Wales . SOuth - Wa●es , in the division of the Countrey amongst the sonnes of Roderick Mawr , ●ell unto Cadel the second sonne . It contained all that quantity and tract of ground , which now we call the Counties of Glamorgan , Pembroke , Carmarthen , Cardigan , and part of Brecknock : which being the richer and more fruitfull part of Wales , and lying most open to invasion , both by sea and land , was soonest brought under the command of the Kings of England . The principall seat of the Princes of it , was Dyn●sar , or Dynevor Castle , not farre from Carmarthen , who thence were called by their subjects , the Kings of Dynevor ; and whilest they stood upon their owne legges , were these that follow . A. Ch.     877 1 Cadell second sonne of Roderick .   2 Howell . 907 3 Howell Dha . 948 4 Owen .   5 ●neas .   6 Theodore Mawr . 1077 7 Rhese . I. 1093 8 Gryffith . I.   9 Rhese . II.   10 Gryffith . II. in whom ended the line of the Princes of South-Wales , his Countrey being conquered by the English , and his two sonnes Meredith and Cynerick taken by King Henry the second , who caused their eyes to be put out . After which time South-Wales was reckoned as a part of the Realme of England . The Principality and Princes of North-Wales . NOrth-Wales in the division of the Kingdome of Wales , fell to the share of Amarawd , the eldest sonne of Roderick Mawr , the last King thereof ; with a superior●ty of power over both the rest , who were but homagers to this . It contained in it all that territory which now doth comprehend the Counties of Merioneth , De●bigh , Flint , Carna●von , and the Is●e of Anglesey , which being the more mountainous parts ; and consequently of more difficult accesse then the others were , as they did longest keepe their liberties , so doe they still preserve their language from the incursions of the English ▪ Abers●aw in the Isle of Anglesey was the Princes seate , who were hence sometimes called the Kings of Abersraw , and were these ensuing . A. Ch.     8077 1 Amarawd eldest sonne of Roderick . 913 2 Idwallo . 3 Merick .   4 Joanes . 1067 5 Conan . 1099 6 Gryffith 1120 7 Owen . 1178 8 David . I. 1194 9 Llewellen . I. 1240 10 David . II. 1246 11 Llewellen . II. the last of the Princes of Wales of the British bloud , of whom , and the conclusion of his race , see the following Catalogue . The Kings and Princes of it , according to the History of Wales . IN the History of Wales , writ by Humphrey Lloyd , the Kings and Princes of Wales are reckoned differently from that succession of them before laied downe . The reason of which difference may be that he reciteth there the Predominant Princes , such as gave law unto the rest , whether of North-Wales , South-Wales , or of Powys-land : even as wee see was done before , in summing up the Monarchs of the English Saxons , out of the severall Kingdoms in that Heptarchie . Now for his Catalogue of the Welch , both Kings and Princes , he recites them thus . A Ch.     688 1 Ivor . 720 2 Roderick Mo●wino● . 755 3 Conan Tindaethwy . 820 4 Mervyn Urich . 843 5 Roderick Mawr . 877 6 Amarawdh . 913 7 Edward Voel . 940 8 Howel Dha . 948 9 Jevaf , and Jago . 982 10 Howel ap Jevaf . 984 11 Cadwallan ap Jevaf . 986 12 Meredith ap Owen . 992 13 Edwal ap Meiric . 1003 14 Aedan ap Blegored . 1015 15 Lhewellen ap Sit●ylt . 1021 16 Jago ap Edwall . 1037 17 Gryffith ap Llewellen . 1061 18 Blethyn , and Rhywallon . 1073 19 Trahaern ap Caradoc . 1078 20 Gry●●ith ap Conan . 1137 21 Owen Gwineth . 1169 22 David ap Owen . 1194 23 Llewellen ap Jorweth . 1240 24 David ap Llewellen . 1246 25 Llewellen ap Gryffith , the last Prince of Wales of the British race , who lost his life and principality to King Edward the first , Anno 1282. After whose death , the King perceiving that the Welch had no affection to be ruled by strangers ; sent for his Queene then great with child , to come unto him to Carnarvon , and hearing that shee was delivered of a sonne , called the Welch Lords together , and proffered them a Prince to beare rule amongst them , of their owne nation , one who spake no word of English , and such a one whose life no man could tax . To such a Prince when they had all sworn to yeeld obedience , he named his new-borne sonne unto them , and made him their Prince , since when the eldest sonnes of England have commonly beene created Princes of Wales . The Princes of it , of the bloud Royall of England . WALES thus brought under the obedience of the Kings of England , hath since beene commonly the honourary title and possession of their eldest sonnes . Not that they challenge it , as of due belonging to them ; but take it from their Fathers as of speciall Grace , by solemne creation and investure , tenendum sibi & Haeredibus suis Regibus Augliae , to hold to them and their heires Kings of England : our Kings not being willing to deprive themselves of such a power of gratifying and obliging their eldest sonnes , as they saw occasion . Edward 2. who had been summoned by his Father unto the Parliament by the name of Prince of Wales , and Earle of Chester : summoned his eldest sonne ( King Edward 3. ) by no other name then Earle of Chester and Flint . Edward 3. first used the ceremony of creation , by letters Patents , and investiture , which hath since continued : and for the want of which , Edward 6. Queene Mary and Queen Elizabeth however in their severall turnes , they have beene called Princes and Princesses of Wales , were not truely such . Those which were so created , either by Parliamentary Writ or especiall Charter , are these that follow . A. Ch.       1 Edward of Carnarvon eldest sonne of King Edward the first . 1344 2 Edward the black Prince , eldest son of King Edward the third . 1377 3 Richard of Burdeaux , eldest sonne unto the black Prince . 1399 4 Henry of Monmouth , eldest sonne of King Henry the fourth . 1454 5 Edward of Westminster , onely son of King Henry the sixth . 1472 6 Edward of Westminster , eldest son of King Edward the fourth . 1483 7 Edward Earle of Salisbury , eldest sonne of King Richard the third . 1492 8 Arthur , the eldest sonne of King Henry the seventh . 1506 9 Henry Duke of Yorke second sonne to King Henry the seventh , after K. Henry the eighth . 1610 10 Henry , eldest sonne of King Iames the first Monarch of Great Britaine . 1616 11 CHARLES Duke of Yorke ▪ second sonne of King Iames , now the second Monarch of Great Britaine . Princes and Lords of Powys-land . POwys-land is the third part of Wales , but the least of all , containing onely the whole County of Montgomery , and part of Radnor , Brecknock , Denbigh , and Shropshire . The chiefe seate hereof was Matravall , in Montgomery shire , from whence the Princes of it would be called the Kings of Matravall . It was bestowed by Roderick Mawr , in his division of Wales , on Mervyn his youngest son ▪ and did continue in his line a long time together : but much afflicted and dismembred by the Princes of Northwales , who cast a greedy eye upon it . The first Prince of it was called Mervyn , but we have no good constat of his successors : the last that held it all entire , was Meredith ap Blethin , who divided it betweene his two sonnes , Madoc , and Gryffith , of the which Madoc died at Winchester , Anno 1160. and Gryffith was by Henry the first of England created Lord Powys , the residue of Powys-land which pertained to Madoc , depending still upon the fortune of North-Wales . The Lords of Powys . A. Ch.       1 Gryffith ap Meredith .   2 Owen Cynelioc .   3 Gwenwynnin .   4 Gryffith ap Gwenwynnin   5 Owen ap Gryffith . 6 John Charleton , one of the Bed-chamber to King Edward the second , married H●wys daughter of Owen ap Gryffith . 1353 7 John Charleton , Lord Powys . 1360 8 John Charleton , Lord Powys . 1374 9 John Charleton , Lord Powys . 1401 10 Edward Charleton , Lord Powys . 1420 11 Henry Grey , nephew of Edward Lord Powys by his daughter Iane created Earle of Tanquerville by King H. 5.   12 Richard Gray Lord Powys .   13 John Gray Lord Powys .   14 John Gray Lord Powys .   15 Edward Gray , the last Lord Powys of the race of Mervyn , sonne of Roderick King of Wales . 1629 16 William Herbert of Red-castle , sonne of Edward , second sonne of William Herbert Earle of Pembroke , created Lord Powys , 5. Car. Apr. 2. now living 1641. Kings and Lords of MAN. THe Isle of MAN is situate so equally betweene England and Ireland , that once it was a controversie unto the which it appertained ; but was in fine adjudged to England , in that some venemous wormes brought hither , did not furthwith die : which kinde of creatures the nature of the Irish soyle will by no meanes brooke . It was once subject unto the crowne and Kingdome of Northumberland , but from them taken by the Danes , Norwegians , and other people of the North , in their irruptions on these parts : who having mastered it , ordained therein a Pe●it King of their owne Nation ; who thus succeeded one another . A. Ch.   Kings of MAN. 1065 1 Godred the sonne of Syrrie . 1066 2 Fingall sonne of Godred . 1066 3 Godred the sonne of Harald . 1082 4 Lagman eldest sonne of Godred . 1089 5 Dopnald sonne of Tade . 1098 6 Magnus King of Norway . 1102 7 Olave third sonne of Godred . 1144 8 Godred sonne of Olave . 1187 9 Reginald , base sonne of Godred . 1226 10 Olave the lawfull sonne of Godred . 1237 11 Herald sonne of Olave . 1249 12 Raignald . II. brother of Harald . 1252 13 Magnus . II. brother of Raignald . 1266 14 Magnus King of Man being deceased without issue , Alexander third King of the Scots , partly by conquest , and par●ly by money paied to the Norwegians , brought this and all the rest of the Westerne Isles under his obedience . After this time , it was sometimes dependant on the Crowne of Scotland , and sometimes on England , according as their fortunes varied : till in the end , it was regained finally from the Scots , by William Montacute Earle of Salisbury ( who was descended from the ancient Kings of Man ) and by him after sold to the Lord Scrope , on whose attainder it fell unto the Crowne of England , and changed Lords as followeth . Kings and Lords of MAN , of English bloud . A. Ch.     1340 1 William Earle of Sal●sbury . K. 1395 2 William Lord Scrope . K. 1399 3 Henry Earle of Northumberland Lord. 1403 4 William Lord Stanley , Lord of Man.   5 John Lord Stanley , Lord of Man.   6 Thomas Lord Stanley , Lord of Man.   7 Thomas Lord Stanley , Lord of Man , created Earle of Darbie by K. Henry 7. 1503 8 Thomas Stanley Earle of Darby , Lord of Man. 1521 9 Edward Stanley Earle of Darby , Lord of Man : 1572 10 Henry Stanley Earle of Darby , Lord of Man. 1593 11 Ferdinando Stanley Earle of Darby , Lord of Man. 1604 12 William Stanley now Earle of Darby , and Lord of Man. 1640. Lords and Kings . THe Isle of Wight abutting on the coast of Hampshire , was taken from the English by William Fitz-Osborne , Earle of Hereford , in the time of William Duke of Normandy , and King of England : who thereupon became the first Lord therof . After whose death & the proscription of his sonne Roger , it fell unto the Crowne , and was by Henry the second bestowed upon the family of the Ryvers , Earles of Devon. On the extinction of which line , it fell againe unto the Crowne , in the time of King Edward the first ; and in the same hath since continued : giving the title onely of one King , and one Lord to two Potent subjects . Now for the Lords and King , they are these here following . A. Ch.       1 William Fitz-Osborne , Earle of Hereford . 1072 2 Roger de Breteville , Earle of Hereford .   3 Richard de Ryvers , Earle of Devon.   4 Baldwin de Ryvers , Earle of Devon. 1154 5 Richard de Ryvers , Earle of Devon . 1161 6 Baldwin de Ryvers , Earle of Devon . 7 Richard de Ryvers , Earle of Devon.   8 William de Ryvers , Earle of Devon. 1216 9 Baldwin de Ryvers , Earle of Devon. 1245 10 Baldwin de Ryvers , Earle of Devon. 1261 11 Isabell , sister to Earle Baldwin , and wife to William de Fortibu● , surrendred up her interest in this Iland , to King Edward the first . 1445 12 Henry Beauchamp , Earle of Warwick , Anno 23. of Henry 6. was crowned King of the Isle of Wight , and shortly after made Duke of Warwick . 1466 13 Richard Lord Wideville Earle Ryvers , made by King Edward 4. Lord of the Wight . THE SECOND TABLE , OR , A CATALOGVE OF All the Bishops which have governed in the Church of England , and VVales , since the conversion of the SAXONS . Together with the honourary Offices which they , or any of them have enjoyed in the civill government . Divided into two parts . Printed at London . 1641. THE PREFACE TO THE ENSUING CATALOGUE of Arch-Bishops , and Bishops . THE ●aith of Christ being here planted as ●aith Gilda● , tempore summo Tiberii Caesaris , towards the latter end of Tiberius Caesar , was as it seemes , concealed and hidden ●ill the time of Lucius : who publikely making profession of it , procured three Archiepiscopall seates to be erected at Yorke , Caer-Leon upon Vsk , and London for the North , West , and Southerne parts ; and suffragan Bishops to be allotted and assigned unto each of them . Of these and their successors wee have little Constat , onely some foot-steps in some places , whereby we may discerne the ruine of religion which had beene made here by the Saxons . But when the Saxons were converted to the Christian faith , they grew more zealous of the same , then formerly they had beene a verse from it : and gave it suddenly a generall and unanimous admittance . Which being done , that part of England which was then in their possession , was divided into the two Provinces of Cante●bury and Yorke : the ancient Britons or the Welsh continuing for a long time after under the rule and government of their owne Arch-Bishop ; but in the ●nd were a●so brought to yeeld obedience to the See of Canterbury . The Church thus brought into a settled forme and order , became forthwith of such esteeme at home , that they have long time beene accounted Peeres of the Realme , and are by writ summoned unto all Parliaments , as are the temporall Barons ; and of such reputation and fame abroad , that the Arch-Bishops of both Provinces were adjudged to be Legatinati : the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury having a superintendencie over all the Irish Bishops ; as he of Yorke , had a direct primacie over those of the Church of Scotland . And in the Councell held at Constance , what time the Fathers there assembled , were for the better dispatch of businesse , divided into severall Nations : the English Nation , Anglicana natio , was reckoned amongst the chiefest . At this time since this Church was manumitted from the Pope , it may be warrantably said to bee the most exact and perfect of the Reformation : keeping a constant & continued succession in the holy Hierarchy , and consequently also in all holy Orders ; and whatsoever else is necessary , either in doctrine , government , or ceremony , unto the constitution of an Apostolicall and Orthodax Church . As for the method which we meane to use in this following Catalogue , it is briefely this : we will begin first with the Province and See of Canterbury , and those particular Sufragan Bishops which owe obedience thereunto , which we will marshall in the order of the Alphabet , those of Wales included . For howsoever they had once the honour to have an Arch-Bishop of their owne , yet being now reputed members of the Province of Canterbury ; we will dispose of them accordingly . That done , we will proceed unto the Province and See of Yorke , and those few Bishopricks , which are now remaining of the same : which as the rest before , we will also take along , according to the order of the Alphabet . And this we take to be the easiest order for the Reader : that of the Antiquity of the Sees , being very intricate and perplext , and that of the Antiquity or consecration of the men themselves , both changeable and uncertaine . For if we went according to the way of precedencie which is now in use , established by Act of Parliament 31. H. 8. c. 10. we should dispose them in this manner : viz. First the two Arch-Bishops of Canterbury and Yorke , next the three Bishops of London , Dunelm , Winchester , and last of all the residue of the Prelates according to the Seniority of their consecrations . This is the order of precedencie which is now in use , which yet is no new order in regard of London and Winton , who anciently had place before the rest , in all assemblies of the Clergy : but this being changeable and uncertaine , as before was said , we shall make use rather of the other . Now in each See and Diocese we will keep this course : First we will shew you the antiquity and ordination of each , together with the foundation of their Cathedrall Churches ; what Counties each of them containeth , what priviledges anciently they enjoyed , and still claime to have ; how many Parishes there be in every Diocese , by what Arch-Deacons they are governed , what is the tenth of the whole Clergie in every Diocese , and how much in the Kings bookes is every Bishoprick . We shall observe also , what and how many of the Prelates have beene extract from honourable houses , whose names shall be distinguished by a little Afterisme thus * , as also how many of them have beene canonized and accounted Saints , who and how many of them have beene made Cardinals in the Church of Rome , what honourable Offices have beene borne by any of them in the civill state . In the performance of the which S. shall stand for Saint , and Card for Cardinall : L. Ch. shall signifie L. Chancellour ; L. K. Lord Keeper ; L. Tr. Lord Treasurer ; L. Pr. Lord President , Ch. J. Chiefe Justice . M. Ro. Master of the Rolls , and Ch. Ox. Chancellour of Oxford , as Ch. Ca. of Cambridge . By which it will appeare most plainely what a perpetuall Seminary this our Church hath beene , of able and of learned men , not onely for discharge of Ecclesiasticall , but even temporall businesse . Which being premised once for all , we now proceede unto our Catalogue : beginning with the Province and See of Canterbury , and following in the order before proposed . THE FIRST PART OF THE CATALOGVE OF BISHOPS , CONTAINING THE SVCCESSION of the Arch-Bishops and Bishops of the Province of CANTERBVRY , Printed at London . 1641 ▪ CANTERBURIE and the Arch-Bishops of it . THe See of Canter . was first founded with the plantation of religion the amongst English : Austin the Monk , who first did preach the Gospel to the one ▪ being the first Arch-Bishop of the other . The Chaire hereof originally fixt in the City of Canterbury ; which being once the Regall City of the Kings of Kent , wa● by King Ethelbert , on his conversion , bestowed on Austin the Arch-Bishop , and on his Successors for ever . The Cathedrall , having beene a Church before in the Brit●ns time , was by the same Arch-Bishop Austin repaired , and consecrated , and dedicated to the name of Christ , which it still retaines ; though a long time together it was called Saint Thomas , in honour of Saint Thomas Becke● who was therein slaine . The present fabricke was begun by Arch-Bishop Lanfranc , and William Corboyl ; and by degrees made perfect by their Successo●●●● . Take Canterbury as the seate of the Metropolitan ▪ and it hath under it 21. suffragan Bishops , of the which 17. are in England , and 4. in Wales . But take it as the seate of a Diocesan , and it containeth onely some part of Kent to the number of 257. Parishes ( the residue being in the Diocese of Rochester ; ) together with some few particular Parishes dispersed here and there in severall Dioceses : it being an ancient priviledge of this See , that wheresoever the Arch-Bishops had either Manors or Advowsons , the place forthwith became exempted from the Ordinary , and was reputed of the Diocese of Canterbury . The other priviledges of this See , are that the Arch-Bishop is accounted Prima●e and Metropolitan of all England , and is the first Peere of the Realme : having precedencie of all Dukes , not being of the Royall bloud , and all the great Officers of the State. He hath the title of Grace offered him in common speech ▪ and writes himselfe divina providentia , where other Bishops onely use , divina permissione . The Coronation of the King hath anciently belonged unto him : it being also formerly resolved that wheresoever the Court was , the King and Queene were speciales & domestici Parochian● Domini Archiepiscopi , the proper and domesticall Pariihioners of the Arch Bishop of Canterbury . It also did belong unto him in former times , to take unto himselfe the offerings made at the holy Altar by the King and Queene , wheresoever the Court was , if he were present at the same ; and to appoint the Lent Preachers : but these time hath altered , and the King otherwise disposed of . Abroad in generall Councels he had place at the Popes right foote : at home , this Royall priviledge , that those which held lands of him , were liable for Wardsh●p to him , and to compound with him for the same , though they hold other lands in Cheife of our Lord the King. And for the more increase of his power and honour , it was enacted 25 H. 8. c. 21. that all licenses and dispensations ( not repugnant to the law of God ) which heretofore were sued for in the Court of Rome , should be hereafter granted by the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury and his successours : As also in the 1. Eliz. c. 2. that by the advise of the Metropolitan , or Ecclesiasticall Commissioners , the Queenes Majesty may ordaine and publish such ri●es and ceremonies , as may bee most for the advancement of Gods glory , the edifying of his Church , and the due reveren●e of Christs holy Sacraments . To come at last to the Arch-Bishops , this Diocese hath only one Arch-Deacon , which is he of Canterbury ▪ the Clergies tenth comes to 651. li. 18. s. 2. d. q. and the Arch-Bishoprick it selfe is valued in the Kings books , at the sum of 2816. li. 17. s. 9. d. q. I onely adde in generall , that this See hath yeelded to the Church 16. Saints ; to the Church of Rome 9. Cardinals ; to the Civill state of England 11. Lord Chancellours , one Lord Treasurer , one Lord Chiefe Justice ; and to the University of Oxford 9. Chancellours . The particulars follow . Arch-Bishops of Canterbury . A. Ch.     596 1 S. Augustinus . 611 2 S. Laurentius . 619 3 S. Melitus . 624 4 S. Justus . 634 5 S. Honorius ▪ 655 6 S. Adeodatus , or Deus dedit . Vacavit sedes Annos 4. 668 7 S. Theodorus . 692 8 S. Brithwaldus . 731 9 Tatwinus . 736 10 Nothelmus . 742 11 Cuthbertus . 759 12 Bregwinus . 764 13 Lambertus . 793 14 Athelmardus . 807 15 Wulfredus . 832 16 Theogildus .   17 Celnothus . 871 18 Atheldredus . 889 19 Plegmundus . 915 20 Athelmus . 924 21 Wulfelmus , Lord Chancellour ▪ 934 22 S. Odo . 961 23 S. Dunstan , Lord Treasurer . 988 24 Ethelga●us . 989 25 Siricius . 993 26 Alfricus . 1006 27 S. Elphegus . 1013 28 Livingus , alias Leovingus . 1020 29 Agelnothus . 1038 30 S. Ead●inus . 1050 31 Robertus Gemiticen●is . 1052 32 Stigandus . 1070 33 S. Lanfrancus . Vacavit sedes Annos 4. 1093 34 S. Anselm . 1114 35 Rodulphus . 1122 36 William Corboyl . 1138 37 Theobaldus . 1162 38 S. Thomas Becket L. Chancel . 1171 39 Richardus Monachus . 1184 40 Baldwinus . 1191 41 Reginaldns . 1193 42 Hubert Walter , L. Chancel . and L. Ch. Justice . 1206 43 Stephen Langton , Cardinall . 1229 44 Richard Wethershed . 1234 45 S. Edmund , Chancel . of Oxford . 1244 46 Boniface of Savoy . * 1272 47 Robert Kilwarby , Card. 1278 48 John Peckham . 1294 49 Robert Winchel●ey , Chan. Oxford 1313 50 Walter Raynolds . 1327 51 Simon Mepeham . 1333 52 Jo. Stratford , L. Chancel . 1348 53 Thomas Bradwardin . 1349 54 Simon Is●ippe . 1366 55 Sim. Langham , Card. L. Chan. 1367 56 William Witles●y . 1375 57 Simon Sudbury , L. Chancel . 1381 58 William Courtney . Chan. Ox. * 1396 59 Thomas Arundel , L. Chan. * 1414 60 Henry Chicheley , Card. 1243 61 John Stafford , Card. * 1452 62 Jo. Kemp. Card. L. Chancel . 1454 63 Thomas Bourchier , Card. Lord Chan. and Chan. of Oxford . * 1486 64 John Morton , the like . 150● 65 Henry Deane . 1504 66 W. Warham , L. Ch. and Ch. Ox. 1533 67 Thomas Cranmer . 1555 68 Reginald Pole , Car. and Chan. Ox. 1559 69 Matthew Parker . 1575 70 Edmund Grindall . 1583 71 Jo. Whi●gift . 1604 72 Richard Bancroft , Chan. Oxford . 1610 73 George Abbot . 1633 74 William Laud , Chan. of the University of Oxford , now being . 1641. SAINT ASAPH AND the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Saint Asaph is exceeding ancient ; first founded by one Kentigern a Scot , and there Bishop of Glasco , about the yeere 560. The Cathedrall there first built by him , upon the Banks of the river Elwy : whence it is called by the Welsh , Llan-Elwy ; the Bishop in the ancient Latine Elwensis , or Elguensis ; by us Saint Asaph , from Saint Asaph an holy man , whom Kentigern returning into Scotland , left here his successor . It seems 〈◊〉 stood not long , or not long in credit ; there being a great hiatus in the succession of the Bishops : none to be found betweene this S. Asaph , and Geofrie of Monmouth , who was here Bishop in the latter end of King Stephens raigne . And which is more , Henry of Huntington in his recitall of the Welsh Bishopricks reckoneth onely three , Saint Davids , Bangor , and Landaffe : which may be probably imputed to the frequent watres in this bordering Countrey ( for it is ●eated in the County of Flint , not farre from Chester : ) which made it an unquie● seate for religious persons . This Bishoprick , being at the best , not very rich , was made much poorer in the time of Bishop Parfew , who lived in the daies of King Edward 6. For where the Bishop had before five Episcopall houses , there is none now left but Saint Asaphs onely , the ●●st together with the lands to them belonging , by him made away , and aliened from the Church for ev●r : besides , that keeping an house above his meanes , he was faine to let the residue of his lands into tedious leases , not yet expired . This ●●ocese containeth in it no one whole County , but part of Denbigh , Flint , Montgomery , Merioneth , and some townes in Shropsh : wherein are to the number of 121 Parishes , most of the which are in the immediate Patronage of the Bishop . It hath but one Arch-Deaconry ▪ called of Saint Asaph , which is united to the Bishoprick , for the better susten●ation of it . The tenth of the Clergy commeth to 186. li. 19. s. 7. d. ob q. and for the Bishoprick it selfe , it is valued in the Kings bookes , at the summe of 187. li. 11. s. 6. d. Bishops of Saint Asaph . A. Ch.     560 1 Kentigern .   2 S. Asaph .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1151 3 Geofry of Monmouth .   4 Adam . 1186 5 Reinerus . 1220 6 Abraham . 1235 7 Howel ap Ednevet . * 1248 8 Anian . 1268 9 Anian . II. 1293 10 Llewellen de Bromfeild . 1319 11 David ap Blethin . 12 Ephraim .   13 Henricus .   14 John Trevaur . 1357 15 Llewellen ap Madoc . 1373 16 William de Stridlington . 1382 17 Lawrence Child . 1390 18 Alexander Bach. 1395 19 John Trevaur . II. 1411 20 Robertus . 1493 21 John Lowe , tr . to Rochester . 1444 22 Reginald Peacock , transl . to Chich. 1450 23 Thomas . 1484 24 Richard Redman , tr . to Exeter . 1503 25 David ap Owen . 1513 26 Edm. Birkhead . 1519 27 Henry Standish . 1535 28 William Barlow , tr . to S. Davids . 1536 29 Robert Parfew , tr . to Hereford . 1555 30 Thomas Goldwell . 1559 31 Richard Davies , tr . to S. David● . 1561 32 Thomas Davies . 1573 33 Thomas Hughes . 1595 34 William Morgan . 1604 35 Richard Parry . 1622 36 John Hanmer . 1629 37 John Owen , now Bishop of Saint Asaph . 1641. BANGOR , and the Bishops there . BAngor , another of the Bishopricks of Wales , is of ancient standing ; but by whom founded , not yet knowne . The Cathedrall there is dedicated by the name of S. Daniel , who was Bishop here about the yeare 516. which being cruelly defaced by that wretched Rebell Owen Glendowr , was afterward repaired by Henry Deane , who was once here Bishop . The ruine of this Bishoprick , came in the time of Bishop Bulkeley , who not content to alienate and let out the lands ; made a sale also of the Bels : and going to the Sea-shoare to see them shipped , in his returne was smitten with a sudden blindnesse . This Diocese containeth in it the entire County of Carnarvon , wherein Bangor standeth , and the whole Isle of Anglesey ; together with parts of Denbigh , Merioneth , and Mountgomery , and in them to the number of 107 Parishes , whereof 36. impropriated . It hath moreover in it , three Arch Deaconries , viz. of Bangor , A●glesey , and Merioneth , one of the which is added to the Bishoprick , for support thereof . The Bishoprick is valued in the Kings bookes , 131. li. 16. s. 4. d. and answereth for the Clergies tenth , 151. li. 14. s. 3. d. q. Bishops of Bangor . A. Ch.     516 1 S. Daniel .     ✚ ✚ ✚   1 Hernaeus , translated to Ely ▪ 1120 2 David . 1139 3 Mauritius .   4 Gulielmus .   5 Guido , alias Guianus . 1195 6 Albanus . 1197 7 Robertus de Salopia ▪ 1215 8 Caducan . 1236 9 Howel .   10 Richardus . 1267 11 Anianus . 1306 12 Caducan . II. 1306 13 Cryffith . 1320 14 Ludovicus . 1334 15 Matthaeus . 1358 16 Thom. de Ringsted , 1367 17 Gervasius de Castro . 1370 18 Howell . II. 1374 19 John Gilbert , tr . to S. Davids ▪ 1376 20 John Cloven●is .   21 John Swaffam . 1400 22 Richard Young , tr . to Rochester .   23 Ludovicus . II. 1408 24 Benedict Nicols , tr . to S. David ▪ 1418 25 William Barrow , tr . to Ca●lile .   26 Nicolaus . 1436 27 Thomas Cheriton . 1448 28 John Stanbery , tr . to Hereford .   29 Jacobus . 1464 30 Thomas Ednam . 1496 31 Henry Deane , tr . to Salisbury . 1500 32 Thomas Pigot . 1504 33 Joh. Penvy , tr . to Carlile . 1505 34 Thomas Skeving●on . 1534 35 John Capon . tr . to Salisbury . 1539 36 John Bird , tr . to Chester . 1541 37 Arthur Bulkeley . 1555 38 William Glynn . 1559 39 Rowland Merick . 1566 40 Nicolas Robinson . 1585 41 Hugh Bellott , tr . to Chester . 1595 42 Richard Vaughon , tr . to Chester . 1595 43 Henry Rowlands . 1616 44 Lewys Bayly . 1632 45 David Dolbin . 1633 46 Edward Gryffith . 1637 47 William Roberts , Sub-Almoner , now Bishop of Bangor . 1641. BATH AND WELLES , and the Bishops of it . THe Diocese of Bath and Welles , although it hath a double name , is one single Bishoprick . The Bishops seate originally at Welles , where it still continues , and in respect whereof this Church is called in some Writers , Fontanensis Ecclesia . The stile of Bath came in but upon the by . The Church of Welles first built by Ina , King of the West-Saxons , Anno 704. and by him dedicated to Saint Andrew : after endowed by Kenu●●e , an other King of the same people , Anno 766. and finally made a bishops See in the time of Edward the elder , Anno 905. the first that bore that title being Adelmus , before Abbat of ●lastenbury . The present Church , in place where that of Ina had stood before , was built most part of it by Bishop Robert , the eighteenth Bishop of this See ; but finished and perfected by Bishop Ioceline , sirnamed de Welles . Iohannes de villula , the sixteenth Bishop having bought the towne of Bath of King Henry the first for 500. markes , transferred his ●eate unto that City , 1088. Hence grew a jarre betweene the Monks of Bath and Canons of Welles , about the election of the Bishop . At last the difference was thus composed by that Bishop Robert , whom before I spake of , that from thence forward the Bishop should be denominated from both places , and that precedencie in the stile should be given to Bath ; that in the vacancie of the See , a certaine number of Delegates from both Churches should elect their Prelate , who being elected , should bee installed in them both ; both of them to be reckoned as the Bishops Chapter , and all his Grants and Patents confirmed in both . And so it stood untill the reigne of King H. 8. what time the Monastery of Bath having beene dissolved , there passed an Act of Parliament for the Deane and ●hapter of Welles , to make one sole Chapter for the Bishop : Anno 35. H. 8. c. 15. But to proceed , this Diocese hath yeelded to the Church of Rome , one Card. and to the civill state of England , sixe Lord Chancellours , five Lord Treasurers , one Lord Privie S●ale , one Lord President of Wales , one principall secretary of Estate . The Diocese containeth in it the whole County of Somerset , and in that 388. Parishes , whereof 160. are impropriate . It hath moreover three Arch-Deaconries of Bath , Welles , and Taunton ; is valued in the Kings bookes , at 533. li. 1. s. 3. d. and answereth for the Clergies tenth , 353. li. 18. s. ob . q. Bishops of Welles . A. Ch.     905 1 Adelmus , translated to Cant.   2 Wulfelmus , translated to Cant.   3 Elphegus .   4 Wulfelmus . II. 955 5 Brithelmus . 973 6 Kinewardus . 985 7 Sigarus . 995 8 Alwinus .   9 Burwoldus . 1002 10 Leoningus , translated to Cant.   11 Ethelwinus .   12 Brithwinus .   13 Merewith . 1031 14 Dudoco , alias Bodeca . 1059 15 Giso . Bishops of Bath and Welles . 1088 16 Johannes de Villula . 1123 17 Godefridus , L. Chancel . 1136 18 Robertus Lewensis . 1174 19 Reginald Fitz-Joceline translated to Cant. 1192 20 Savaricus , who removed the See to Glastonbury . 1205 21 Joceline de Welles . 1224 22 Rogerus . 1247 23 Gul. Button , L. Chan. and Treas ▪ 1264 24 Walt. Giffard , transl . to York● . 1267 25 Gul. Button . II. 1274 26 Rob. Burnell , L. Chan. and L. T● . 1292 27 Gul. de Marchia , L. Treas . 1302 28 Walt. Haselshaw . 1310 29 Joh. ●roken●●ord , L. Treas . 1329 30 Radulphus de Salopia . 1336 31 Joh. Barne● , transl . to Ely. 1366 32 Joh. Harewell . 1386 33 Walt. Ski●law , transl . to Durham . 1388 34 Radulph Erghum . 1401 35 Henry Bowet , transl . to Yorke . 1408 36 Nic. Bubwith . 1425 37 Joh. Stafford , L. Chan. and Treas . transl . to Cant. * 1443 38 Thomas Beckington . 1465 39 Robert de Stillington , L. Pr. Seale , and afterward L. Chan. 1491 40 Rich. Fox , transl . to Durham . 1495 41 Oliver King principall Secretary . 1505 42 Adrian de Castello , Card. 1518 43 Tho. Wolsey , changed this See for Durham , L. Chan. 1523 44 John Clarke , Master of the Rolls . 1541 45 William Knight . 1549 46 William Barlowe . 1554 47 Gilbert Bourne , Lord President of Wales . 1559 48 Gilbert Barkely . 1584 49 Thomas Godwin . 1592 50 John Still . 1608 51 James Montagu . 1616 52 Arthur Lake . 1626 53 William Laud , trans . to London . 1628 54 Leonard Mawe . 1630 55 Walter Curle , trans . to Winton . 1632 56 William Piers , now Bishop there . 1641. BRISTOL , and the Bishops thereof . THe Bishoprick of Bristol is of new erection , first ●ounded by King Henry 8. who having had the spoile of the Monasteries , and religious houses , was pleased to refund some of it backe againe upon the Church , for the incouragement of learning , and increase of piety . For this end he procured an Act of Parliament , for the erecting of new Bishopricks by his letters Patents , 31. H. 8. c. 9. and did accordingly erect sixe new Bishops Sees , viz. at Bristol , Oxford , Westminster , Gloucester , Peterburgh , and Chester . According to the tenor of which Act , he did immediately erect sixe new Bishopricks on the foundations of such ancient Mo●asteri●s , as 〈◊〉 ●hought fittest for that purpose , and most convenient of honour , in regard of their situation : Wherein he failed not any where so much as in this of Bristol , the Diocese thereof being very much distant from the See ; a●que alio sub sole 〈◊〉 Now for this Bishoprick , the seate thereof is Bristol , as before I said , one of the fairest Cities in the Realme of England ▪ and a just County in it selfe . The Cathedrall Church is dedicated by the name of Saint Austins , founded by Robert Fitz-Harding sonne to a King of Danemarke , once a Citizen here ; and by him stored with Canons Regular . Anno 1148. But this foundation being dissolved , King H. 8. made it a Bishops See , and placed therein a Deane , and sixe Prebendaries , as it still continueth . For 32. yeeres together in Qu ▪ Eliz. time it had never a Bishop , but all that while was held in Commendam by the Bishops of Gloucester : the Patrimony of the Church being in the interim much wasted . The Diocese hereof containeth , besides the City of Bristol , the whole County of Dorset ( belonging heretofore to the See of Salisbury : ) and therein 236. Parishes , of which 64. impropriated . It hath onely one Arch-Deacon , which is he of Dorset ; is valued in the Kinges bookes , 383. li. 8. s. 4. d. and answereth for the tenth of the' Clergy , 353. li. 18. s. ob . q. Bishops of Bristol . A. Ch.     1542 1 Paul Bush. 1554 2 John Hoiiman , died 1558.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1589 3 Richard Fletcher , translated to London . 1593.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1603 4 John Thornbourgh , translated to Worcester ▪ 1617 5 Nicolas Fel●on , translated to Ely. 1619 6 Jo. Serchfeild . 1622 7 Robert Wright , translated to Lichfeild . 1632 8 George Cooke , translated to Hereford ▪ 1636 9 Robert Skinner , now Bishop there . 1641. CHICHESTER , and the Bishops thereof . THe See of Chichester , was anciently in the Isle of Selsey , not farre from thence : first planted there by Wilfrid Arch-Bishop of Yorke , who being banished his Countrey by Egfride King of the Nort●umbers , did preach the Gospel to the South-Saxons . To him did Edilwach , the South-Saxon King assigne this Iland for his seate ; and after Cedwall King of the West-Saxons , having wonne this Kingdome , built in the same a Monastery , which he made the Bishops See. Here it continued till the time of Bishop S●ig●●d , who first ▪ removed the See to Chichester , the principall City of these parts ; first built by Cissa the second King of the South-Saxons , and by him called Cissan-Ceaster . The Cathedrall Church was anciently dedicated to Saint Peter ; new built by Radulph the third Bishop here , after the See removed by Stigand : which being almost all consumed by a raging fire , was afterwards rebuilt and beautified by Siffridus the second . But to proceede , this See hath yeelded to the Church two Saints , to the Realme three Lord Chancellours , to the Court two Almoners , one Chancellour to the University of Oxford : and anciently the Bishops here were Confessours to the Queenes of England , ( for which they have to shew an ancient Charter ) and had allowance for the same . This Diocese containeth the County of Sussex , and in the same 250. Parishes ; whereof 112 , impropriated . It hath moreover two Arch-Deacons , viz. of Chichester , and Lewys ; is valued in the Kings bookes , at 677. li. 1. s. 3. d and answereth for a tenth of the whole Clergy . 287. li. 2. s. ob . q. Bishops of Selsey . A. Ch.       1 Wilfride . 711 2 Eadbertus .   3 Eolla ▪ 733 4 Sigelmus . alla● Sigfridus .   5 Alubrith .   6 Osa , vel Bosa .   7 Gi●elherus .   8 To●a .   9 Wigthun .   10 Ethelulfus .   11 Beornegus .   12 Coenrede . 131 13 Gutheard ▪ 960 14 Alfredus ▪ 970 15 Eadhelmus . 980 16 Ethelgarus . 988 17 Ordbright .   18 Elmar . 1019 19 Ethelricus . 1038 20 Grinke●ellur . 1047 21 Heca . 1057 22 Agelricus , after whose death the Bishops See and Chaire was removed to Chichester ; and from henceforth they were entituled by the name of Bishops of Chichester . A. Ch.     1070 23 Stigandus .   24 Gulie●mus .   25 Radulphus . 1125 26 Seffridus .   27 Hilarius . 1174 28 John de Greenford . 1187 29 S●ffridus . II. 1199 30 Simon de Welles ▪ 1209 31 Nicolas de Aquila . 1215 32 Richard Poore , tr . to Salisbury . 1217 33 Radulph de Warham . 1223 34 Radulph de Nevill , L. Chan. * 1245 35 S. Richard sirnamed de la Wich . 1253 36 John Clipping . 1261 37 S●ephen de Berkstede . 1288 38 S. Gilbert de Scon. Leofardo .   39 John de Langton , L. Chan.   40 Robert Stratford , L. Chan. 1362 41 Gul. de Lenn . 1369 42 Gul. Reade . 1385 43 Thomas Rushooke .   44 Richard Mitford , translated to Sarum . 1395 45 Robert Waldby . 1396 46 Robert Reade . 1417 47 Stephen Patrington . 1418 48 Henry Ware. 1422 49 John Kempe , transl . to London . 1423 50 Thomas Poldon , translated to Worcester . 1428 51 John Rickingale . 1430 52 Simon Sidenham .   53 Richard Praty , Chancellour of Oxford . 1445 54 Adam Molius , Clerke of the Counsell . 1450 55 Reginald Peacock . 1458 56 John Arundell . 1477 57 Edward Story . 1504 58 Richard Fitz-James , translated to London . 1508 59 Robert Sherborn . 1536 60 Richard Sampson , translated to Lichfeild . 1543 61 George Day . 1551 62 John Scory , after of Hereford . 1557 63 John Christopherson . 1559 64 William Barlowe . 1570 65 Richard Cur●eys . 1585 66 Thomas Bickley . 1596 67 Anth. Watson , Bishop Almoner . 1605 68 Lancelor Andrewes , tr . to Ely. 1609 69 Sam. Harsenet , tr . to Norwich . 1619 70 George Charleton . 1628 71 Richard Montagu , tr . to Norwich . 1638 72 Brian Duppa , now Bishop and Tutor to the Prince his Highnesse . COVENTRY AND LICHFEILD , and the Bishops thereof . THhe Bishoprick of Coventry ▪ and Lichfeild is like that of Bath and Welles ; a double name , a single Diocese . The Bishops See originally at Lichfeild , from thence removed to Chester , and from both ●o Covent●y . Hence is it that the Bishops are called sometimes Cestre●ses , sometimes Lichfeildenses , sometimes Coventrienses , and now of late , Bishops of Coventry and Lichfeild . For in the yeere 1088. being that very yeere wherein the See of Welles was removed to Bath ; Robert de Limesey did remove this See ●o Coventry ▪ Hugo Novant , the sixth from him brought it backe to Lichfeild , not without great opposition of the Monkes of Coventry : and in the end , the difference finally was composed by Bishop Savensby , much after the same manner , as before at Welles . For here it was agreed on that the Bishop should be denominated from both places , and that precedencie in the stile Episcopall , should be given to Coventry : that they should choose their Bishop ●lternatim , in their severall turnes ; that they should both make one Chapter unto the Bishop , in which the Prior of Coventry should be the principall man. And so it stood till that the Priory of Coventry being dissolved by King Henry 8. ( the stile or title of the Bishop continuing as before it did ) there passed an Act of Parliament 33. H. 8. c. 29 to make the Deane and Chapter of Lichfeild the sole Chapter for the Bishop . The Cathedrall Church here first built by Oswy King of the Mercians , about the yeere 556. who gave unto the Bishops many faire possessions . But that old Church being taken downe by Roger de Clinton , the 36. Bishop of this Diocese , that which now standeth was built by him in place thereof , Anno 1148. and dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Chad. In following times , and almost in the infancie thereof , the revenues of it were so faire , that Lichfeild was thought fit to be the See of an Arch-Bishop . And one it had , no more , his name Adulfus , Anno 783. the Bishops of Winton , Hereford , Sidnacester , Dorchester , ( which two now make Lincoln ) and those of Elmham and of Dunwich ( both which now make Norwich ) being appointed to him for his Suffragans . But with him and King Offa who procured it , this great title died . And now it is content to be a Bishoprick , the Diocese whereof containeth the whole Counties of Darby , and Stafford , together with a good part of Warwickshire and Shropshire . In these are comprehended 557. Parishes , of which 250. are impropriate : for better government whereof , it hath foure Arch-Deaconries , viz. of Stafford , Darby , Coventry , and Shrewsbury . It is valued in the Kings bookes , 559. li. 18. s. 2. d. ob . q. and for the Clergies tenth , it commeth unto 590. li. 16. s. 11. d. q. and finally hath yeelded to the Church three S. to the Realme one Chancellour , and three Lord Treasurers ; to Wales three Presidents , one Chancellour to the University of Cambridge , and to the Court one Master of the Wardrobe . Arch-Bishops and Bishops of Lichfeild . A. Ch.     656 1 Dwina .   2 Cellach .   3 Trumher .   4 Jarumanus . 669 5 Saint Chad , or Cedda , tr . to York . 672 6 Winfridus . 672 7 S. Sexulfus . 692 8 Headda , alias Eatheadus . 721 9 Aldwinus . 733 10 Witta .   11 Hemel . 764 12 Cuthfridus .   13 Berthunnus . 785 14 Higbertus . 793 15 Aldulphus the Arch-Bishop●   16 Humbertus .   17 Merewinus .   18 Higbertus . II.   19 Ethelwaldus . 857 20 Humbertus . II. 864 21 Kinebertus . 872 22 S. Cymbertus●   23 Tunbright .   24 Ella . 928 25 Alfgar . 26 Kinsey .   27 Winsey .   28 Elphegus .   29 Godwinus .   30 Leofgarus .   31 Brithmarus . 1039 32 Wolfius L. Chancell . 1054 33 Leofwine . 1067 34 Petrus , who removed the See to Chester . Bishops of Coventry and Lichfeild . 1088 35 Robert de Limesey , removed the See to Coventry . 1117 36 Robert Peccham . 1119 37 Roger de Clinton . * 1149 38 Walter Durdent . 1161 39 Richard Peche . 1182 40 Gerardus la pucelle . 1186 41 Hugo Novant . 1191 42 Galfridus de Muschamp . 1210 43 Walter Grey , translated to Worcester . 1215 44 William de Cornhull . 1220 45 Alexander de Savensby . 1240 46 Hugh de Pateshul , Lord Treasurer 1245 47 Roger de We●●ham . 1257 48 Roger de Longespee . 1295 49 Walter de Langton , Lord Treasurer 1322 50 Roger de 〈…〉 , Master of the Wardrope , and Lord Treasurer . 1360 51 Robert Stretton . 1385 52 Walter Skirlaw , transl . to Welles . 1396 53 Richard Scrope , tr . to Yorke . * 1399 54 John Burghill . 1415 55 John Ketterich . 1419 56 Jacobus Carie. 1420 57 Gul. Heyworth . 1447 58 Gul. Boothe . 1452 59 Nicolas Close , Chancellour of Cambridge . 1453 60 Reginald Butler . 1459 61 John Hales . 1492 62 Gul. Smith , tr . to Lincoln . 1496 63 John Arundel , tr . to Exeter . 1503 64 Geofry Blythe , L. Pre● . of Wales . 1524 65 Roland Lee , L. Pres. of Wales . 1543 66 Richard Sampson , L. President of Wales . 1555 67 Radulph Bayne . 1559 68 Thomas Bentham . 1578 69 Gul. Overton . 1609 70 George Abbot , tr . to London . 1610 71 Richard Neile , tr . to Lincoln . 1614 72 John Overall , tr . to Norwich . 1618 73 Thomas Morton , tr . to Durham . 1632 74 Robert Wright , now Bishop of Coventry and Lichfeild . 1641. SAINT DAVIDS , & the Arch-Bishops and Bishops of it . SAint Davids now the seate of a Suffragan Bishop , was once a Metropolitans S●e in the Brit●sh Church , and long time the supreme Ordinary of the Wel●h . In the first planting of the Gospel in King Lucius time , wee shewed that there were three Arch-Bishops seates appointed , viz. at London , York , and of Caer-Leon upon Vsk. That of Caer-Leon upon Vsk was , in the time of Arthur , King of the Britons , translat●d further off from the Saxons furie , to a place called Men●w , ( Menevia is the Latine name ) but since , in memory of David the Arch-Bishop who so translated it , by us called Saint Davids . From the first name it is , these Bishops use to stile themselves , Menevenses . When Austin the Monk first entred England , the Metropolitan of Saint Davids had th●n remaining under his jurisdiction seven Suffragan Bishops ; all which gave meeting to the said Austin and his Associates , for the composing of some differences which were between the old and the new-come Christians : viz. the Bishop of Worces●er ( Wicctor●m ) Llandaff , Bang●r , Hereford , Llan-Elwy , or Saint As●p● Llan-Badern , ( called in Latin Paternensis a place in Card●gan shire , the last is called in Latin Morganensis , which possibly might have his seate in Margan of Glamorgan shire , a place still so called . Of these , Llan Badern , and this Morganensis are quite extinct , and have long so beene ; Hereford and Worcester a long time reckoned as English Bishopricks , and so none left unto the Metropolitan of S. Davids , but Llandaff , Bangor , & S. Asaphs Now for these Bishops of Saint Davids , we finde that 26. of them retained the title of Arch-Bishops : The last whereof was Sampson , who in a time of pestilence transferd the Archiepiscopall Pall , & with the same the Archiepiscopall dignity to Dole in Bretagne , yet his successours , though they lost the name , reserved the power of an Arch-Bishop : nor did the residue of the Welch Bishops receive their consecration from any other hand then his ; till in the time of H. 1. Bernard the 46. Bishop of this See was forced to submit himselfe to the Church of Canterbury . For the Cathedrall here , it had beene oft spoyled and ruined by the Danes , Norwegians , and other Pirats : as standing neare the Sea , in the extreme corner of Pembroke shire . That which we now see is the worke of Bishop Peter , ( he was the 48. Bishop of this Diocese ) and by him dedicated by the name of Saint Andrew , and Saint David ; though now Saint Andrew be left out , and David onely beares the name . This See hath had the greatest number of Bishops of any in England , 91. in all : and amongst them the Church hath had one Saint , the Realme of England three Lo●d Treasurers , one Lord Privie Seale ; the Un●versity of Oxford one Chancellour , and the Queene another . The Dioce●e containeth the whole Counties of Pembroke , Cardigan , Carmarthen , Radnor , Brecknocke , and some small parts of Monmouth Hereford , Mountgomery , and Glamorganshires . In which great quantity of ground there are no more then 308. Parishes , whereof 120. are impropriate . For the more easie government of which here are foure Arch-Deacons , viz. of Cardigan , Carmarthen , Brecknock , and Saint Davids . Finally , it is valued in the Kings bookes , at 457. li. 1. s. 10. d. ob . q. the Clergies tenth amounting unto 336. li. 14. s. 10. d. Arch-Bishops of S. Davids . A. Ch.     519 1 S. Davids .   2 Eliud .   3 Theliaus .   4 Ke●ea .   5 Morvael .   6 Harnurier .   7 Elvaeth .   8 Gurnell .   9 Llendiwith .   10 Gornwi●t .   11 Gorgan .   12 Eynean .   13 Cledanc .   14 Eludgeth .   15 Eldunen .   16 Elvaoth .   17 Maels●with .   18 Madeve .   19 Catulus .   20 Silvay .   21 Nanus .   22 Sathveny .   23 Doythwell .   24 Asser. 906 25 Athvael .   26 Sampson , the last Arch-Bishop of the Welch . Bishops of S. Davids , with Archiepiscopall power .   27 Ruclinns .   28 Lyworch .   29 Nergu .   30 Sulhyder . 942 31 Eneuris . 944 32 Morgeneu .   33 Rhoderick . 961 34 Nathan .   35 Jevan .   36 Argustell .   37 Morgenveth . 998 38 Ervyn ▪ 1038 39 Caermeryn ▪ 1055 40 Joseph .   41 Blethud ▪ 1070 42 Su'gheym . 1076 43 Abraham . 1088 44 Rithmark .   45 Wilfridus , alias Griffry . 1115 46 Bernardus , Chancellour to Qu. Adeliza , who first submitted himselfe and Church to the See of Cant. Bishops of S. Davids Suffragans to the See of Cant. 1148 47 David Fitz-Gerald . 1176 48 Petrus .   49 Galfridus . 1198 50 Silvester Giraldus . 1215 51 Jorwerth . Vacat sedes per An. 9. 1228 52 Alselmus . 1247 53 Thomas Wallensis . 1255 54 Thomas Carren . 1280 55 Tho. Beck . L. Treas . 1293 56 David de S. Edmundo . 1320 57 David Martyn . 1328 58 Henry Gower . 1347 59 John Thursby , tr . to Worc. 1349 60 Reginald Brian . tr . to Werc . 1353 61 Thomas Fastolf . 1361 62 Adam Hough●on , Chanc. of Ox. 1369 63 John Gilbert , L. Treas . Vacat sedes An. 4. 1401 64 Guido de Mona , L. Treas . 1409 65 Henry Chicheley , tr . to Cant. 1414 66 John Ketterich , tr . to Lichf . 1415 67 Stephen Patrington , tr . to Chich. 1417 68 Benedict Nicols . 1424 69 Thomas Rodburne . 1435 70 Gul. Lindwood , L. Pr. Seale . 1446 71 John. Lang●on , Chanc. of Cambr. 1447 72 John Delabere .   73 Robert Tully . 1482 74 Richard Martin . 1483 75 Thomas Langton tr . to Sarum . 1485 76 Hugh Pavy . 1503 77 John Morgan , alias Young. 1504 78 Roger Sherborne , tr . to Chich. 1509 79 Edward Vaughan . 1523 80 Richard Rawlins . 1536 81 William Barlow , tr . to Welles . 1549 82 Robert Farrar . 1554 83 Henry Morgan . 1559 84 Thomas Young , tr . to Yorke . 1561 85 Richard Davies . 1567 86 Marmaduke . Midleton . Vacat sedes Annos . 4. 1594 87 Anthony Rudd . 1615 88 Richard Milborne , tr . to Carlile . 16●1 89 William Laud , tr . to Welles . 1627 90 Theoph. Feild . tr . to Hereford . 1635 91 Roger Mainwaring , now Bishop of S. Davids . 1641. ELY , and the Bishops of it . THe Church of Ely , anciently was a Monastery : first built by Ethelreda wife to Egfride , King of the Northumbers , and by her planted with religious Virgins , whereof she made her selfe the Abbesse . But her plantation being supplanted by the Danes , and the Church quite ruined , Ethelwold Bishop of Winchester did againe rebuild it , and furnished it with Monkes good store : to whom King Edg●r , and the succeeding Kings gave such ample priviledges , and faire possessions , that it did seeme to equall any Church in England . Richard the eleventh Abbat having a minde to quit himselfe of the Bishop of Lincoln , within whose Diocese it stood ; dealt with King Henry the first , both with purse and Tater noster , to turne the Abby into a Cath●drall . And though the King assented to it , and that the businesse was transacted with the Bishop of Lincoln , ( who had three Manors of this Abby , viz. Spaldwick , Biggleswad , and Bockden , in exchange for his jurisdiction ▪ ) yet Richard lived not to possesse it , leaving the benefit of his industry and ambition to be enjoyed by another man , which was one Hervey , Bishop of Bang●r . As for the Church now standing , it is the worke of severall Bishops : the west parts being with great charge repaired by Bishop Rid●ll or new built rather ; as were the Quire and Lanterne by Bishop Norwold , which afterwards were fully finished by Bishop Fordham . The whole Church dedicated to S. Ethelred . Ely thus made a Bishoprick , however fortified with great priviledges , ( for in the Isle of Ely the Bishops had all rights of a County Palatine ) and that it was endowed with so great possessions , as hardly any better in the Realme of England , hath yet beene subject to those changes which time hath wrought . For many of the Palatine rights were taken off , or much restrained by the Act of Parliament , touching restoring to the crowne the antient 〈◊〉 , 27. H. 8. c. 25. in the which Act it was enacted , that ( instead thereof ) the Bishop of Ely , and his temporall Steward for the Isle of Ely , should from thence forth be Iustices of the peace in the said Iland . However Ely may be still reputed amongst the first Bishopricks of the second ranke ▪ and may rejoyce it selfe in this ▪ that it yeelded to this Realme its many great officers as any other in the Kingdome . For it hath given the 〈◊〉 no lesse then 〈◊〉 Lord Chancellours , seven Lord Treasurers , one Lord Privie Seale , one Chancellour o● the University of Oxford , one of the Exchequer , two Masters of the Rolls subesides two Saints unto the Church , two Cardinals to the Church of Rome , and to the English Court three Almoners . The Dioce●e hereof containeth onely Cambridgeshire , and the Isle of Ely ▪ in which there are 141. Parishes ▪ whereof 75 impropriate . It hath but one Arch-Deacon , which is he of Ely ▪ is valued in the Kings bookes , 2134. li. 18. s. 5. d. ob . q. the Clergies tenth amounting to the summe of 384. li. 14. s. 9. d. q. Bishops of Ely. A. Ch.     1109 1 Hervey , Bishop of Bangor . 1133 2 Nigellus , Lord Treasurer . 1174 3 Galfridus Rydall . 1189 4 Gul. Longchamp , L. Chan. 1198 5 Eustachius , L. Chan. 1219 6 S. John de Fontibus , L. Treas . 1225 7 Galfredus de Burgo . 1229 8 Hugh Norwold . 1255 9 Gul. de Kilkenny , L. Chan. 1257 10 S. Hugh Balsam . 1286 11 Joh. de Kirby , L. Treas . 1290 12 Gul. de Luda . 1299 13 Radul●e Walpoole . 1302 14 Rob. Orford . 1310 15 Joh. de Keeton . 1316 16 Joh. Hotham . Ch. of the Exch. L. Chan. and ● . Treas . 1336 17 Simon Montacute . * 1344 18 Tho. Lyde . 1361 19 Sim. Langham , L. Chan. and tr . to Cant. 1366 20 Joh. Barnet , L. Tr. 1375 21 Tho. Arundel , L. Chan. transl . to Yorke . * 1388 22 Joh. Fordham . 1425 23 Phil. Morgan , L. Pr. Seale . 1435 24 Lewis of Luxembourg , Card. * 1443 25 Tho. Bourchier , Card. translated to Cant. * 1454 26 Wil. Grey , L. Treas . * 1478 27 Joh. Morton , Master of the Rolls . L. Chan. 1486 28 Joh. Alcock , Master of the Rolls . 1501 29 Rich Redman . 1506 30 James Stanley . * 1515 31 Nicolas West . 1534 32 Tho. Goodrich , L. Chan. 1554 33 Tho. Thirlby . 1559 34 Rich. Cox , Alm. Chan. Oxford . Vacat sedes , Annos 20. 1599 35 Martin Heton . 1609 36 Lancel . Andrewes , Alm. transl . to Wint. 1618 37 Nicolas Felton . 1627 38 Joh. Buckeridge . 1631 39 Francis White , Bishop Almonor . 1638 40 Mat●hew Wrenn , Deane of the Chappell , now Bishop of Ely 1641. EXETER , and the Bishops there . THe Diocese of Exeter containeth that in it , which was once two Bishopricks . For at the first planting of the Church in these westerne parts , it was thought convenient to erect two Bishops Sees , the one for Cornwall at S. Germans ; the other for Devonsh ▪ at Cridington , now Kirton , a small Village . But that of Cornwall , being annexed to Cridington , about the yeere 1032. both were , not long after , removed to Exeter , the most noted City of these parts , where it still continueth . Now for the Church of Exeter it was once a Monastery , founded by King Athelstane , and by him dedicated unto Saint Peter . Edward the Confessour , removing all the Monkes from hence to Westminster , which he had newly founded and endowed , made it the Bishops See for Devonsh and Cornewall , then united . The Church as now it standeth doth owe it selfe to severall Patrons ; the Quire to Bishop Warlwast , the body of the Church to Bishop Quivil , the side Isles to Grandison : that which is now our Ladies Chappell , being a remn●nt of the old fabrick . The Patrimony thereof once very large , was wasted and destroyed by Bishop Voisie : who being made Bishop here by King Henry 8. ●ate out the residue of his raigne , and all K. Edwards , and some part of Queene Maries also . For whereas at his comming hither , he found the Church possessed of 22. goodly Manors , and 14. Mansion houses richly furnished : he left not above seven or eight of the worst Manors , and those let out in long leases ▪ and charged with pensions ; and not above two houses , both bare and naked , of which see Bishop Godwins Catalogue , and Powels History of Wales . This Diocefe hath yeelded to the Realme of England , three Lord Chancellours , two Lord Treasurers , one Lord President of Wales ; and to the University of Oxford , one Chancellour . It containeth in it the two Counties of Devon , and Cornwall , and in them 604 Parish Churches , whereof 239. are impropriate ; for government whereof it hath foure Arch-Deacons , viz. of Cornwall , Exeter , Barnestable , and Tawton . The Bishoprick was once valued at 1566. li. 14. s. 6. d. But since the diminution , or destruction rather , made by Bishop Voisie ; it is now valued at 500. l. just . The Clergies tenth here very high , or mounting to the sum of 1240. li. 15. s. 2. d. ob . Now for the mar●halling of the Bishops of this once divided Diocese , we will present you with those of Devonshire and Cornwall , columne-wise , one against the other , according to their time and order , untill wee meere them both in the Church of Exeter . Bishops of Devonsh . A. Ch.     905 1   Eadulphus . 906 2 Putta . 910 3 Eadulfus . II. 932 4 Ethelgarus . 942 5 Algarus . 952 6 Alfwoldus . 972 7 Alfwolfus . 981 8 Sidemannus 990 9 Alfredus . 999 10 Alfwoldus II. 1014 11 Eadnothus . 1032 12 Liningus , who after the death of Burwoldus Bishop of Cornwall , procured that Bishoprick to bee annexed unto his owne : which was no sooner done , but that his next successour removed both to Exeter ; since when the Bishops have beene called Cornwall . 905 1 Athelstan .   2 Conanus .   3 Ruidocus .   4 Aldredus .   5 Britwinus .   6 Athelstā . II   7 Wolfi .   8 Woronus .   9 Wolocus .   10 Stidio .   11 Aldredus .   12 Burwoldus , the last Bishop of Cornwall . Bishops of Exeter . A. Ch.     1049 1 Leofricus , who removed the See to Exeter . 1079 2 Osbernus . 1107 3 William Warlewast . 1122 4 Robert Chichester . 1150 5 Robert Warlewast . 1159 6 Bartholm . Iscanus . 1186 7 Johannes . 1191 8 Henry Marshall . * 1206 9 Simon de Apulia . 1224 10 Gul. Brewer . 1245 11 Richard Blondy . 1257 12 Walter Bronescomb . 1280 13 Peter Quivill . 1293 14 Thomas Button . 1307 15 Walter Stapleton , L. Treas . 1326 16 James Barkeley . * 1327 17 John Grandison . * 1370 18 Thomas Brentinsham . L. Treas . 1395 19 Edm. Stafford , L. Chan. * 1419 20 John Ketterich . 1419 21 John Carie. 1420 22 Edm. Lacy. 1455 23 George Nevill , L. Chan. and Chan. of Oxford , tr . to Yorke . * 1466 24 John Boothe . 1477 25 Peter Courtney , tr . to Winton . * 1486 26 Richard Foxe , tr . to Weles . 1492 27 Oliver King , tr . to Welles . 1495 28 Richard Redman . 1501 29 John Arundell . 1504 30 Hugh Oldham . 1519 31 John Voysie , L. Pres. of Walles . 1551 32 Miles Goverdale . 1556 33 James Turberville . 1560 34 Gul. Alley . 1570 35 Gul. Bradbridge . 1579 36 John Woolton . 1594 37 Gervase Babington . 1598 38 Gul. Cotton . 1621 39 Valentine Cary. 1627 40 Joseph Hall , now Bishop of Exeter ▪ 1641 ▪ GLOCESTER , and the Bishops there . GLocester was anciently the seate of a British Bishop , whose stile sometimes occurres in the subscriptions of Synodicall Acts , by the name of Cluviensis ; this towne being formerly called Clevid , as Camden noteth . And I remember that I have seene in the Palace of Glocester , the name of ✚ ✚ ✚ said to bee Bishop there in the Britons time . But whether it were so or not ; or whether Glocester were a Bishoprick in those dayes of old , is not materiall to our purpose . For that which was , was brought to nothing by the Saxons , and when they entertained the faith of Christ , it was first under the authority of the Bishops of Lichfeild , as afterwards of those of Worcester . But in these later dayes it was dismembred from that Diocese , and by King Henry 8. made a Bishops See , what time the rest of new erection were by him founded , as we have spoke before , when we were in Bristol . Now for the indowment of this Bishopricke by him erected , ( besides a Chapter of a Deane , and sixe Prebendaries by him so founded ) he assigned over all , or most of the lands , unto the ancient Monasteries here , once belonging : which being first built by Aldred , Arch-Bishop of Yorke , and Bishop of Worcester , and afterwards repaired by Hanley , Farley , Mo●went , Herton , Trowcester , and Sebroke , severall Abbats here , became in fine to be , what it still continueth , one of the fairest Fabricks in the Realme of England . The Diocese containing onely Glocester shire , hath in it 267. Parishes , whereof 125 are impropriations ; and one Archdeacon , being called of Glocester . Valued it is in the Kings bookes , 315. li. 17. s. 2. d. according to the estimate thereof at the first foundation : though in two vacancies which it had in Queene Eliz. time , much of the lands were taken from it ; ( for which see what was said before in the case of Ely. ) And for a tenth of all , the Clergie pay unto the King 358. l. 15. s. Bishops of Glocester . A. Ch.     1541 1 John Wakeman , last Abbat ● Tewkesbury . 1550 2 John Hooper . 1555 3 James Brookes . Vacat sedes Ann. 3. 1562 4 Kichard Cheinie . Vacat sedes Ann. 3. 1581 5 John Bullingham . 1598 6 Godfr Goldsbourgh . 1604 7 Thomas Ravys , tr . to London . 1607 8 Henry Parry , tr . to Worcest . 1611 9 Giles Tomson . 1612 10 Miles Smith . 1624 11 Godfr . Goodman , now Bishop there ▪ 1641. HEREFORD , and the Bishops there . HEreford also was of old one of the Bishopricks erected in the Britons time ; first under the Metropolitan of Caer-Leon upon Vske , of Saint Davids afterwards , and when these parts were conquered by the Saxon Kings , it came to be a member of the Province of Canterbury . The Cathedrall Church here founded first by Milfride , one of the Noblemen of this County in honor of Ethelbert , King of the East Angles treacherously made away by the Queene of Mercia , his intended mother in law . That which now standeth , oweth the most part of it selfe to Bishop Reinelm ; and what he lived not to performe , was finished by his successours , as they had either meanes or opportunity . The Diocese hereof containeth the County of Hereford , and part of Shrop-shire ; wherein it hath 313. parish Churches , of which 166. are impropriations : and for the government hereof , hath two Arch-Deacons , viz. of Hereford and Salop. It hath afforded to the Church one Saint , to the state two Chancellours , and three Lord Treasurers , one Deputy to the Realme of Ireland , two Chancellours to the University of Oxford , and one unto the Queenes of England . Finally , it is valued in the Kings bookes , 768. li. 10. s. 6. d. ob . q. the tenth of the Clergy comming unto 340. li. 2. s. 2. d. ob . Bishops of Hereford . A. Ch.     680 1 Putta .   2 Tirtellus .   3 Torteras :   4 Wastoldus . 740 5 Cuthbertus .   6 Podda .   7 Ecc● .   8 Cedda . 857 9 Alber●us .   10 Esna . 885 11 Celmund .   12 Utellus .   13 Wulfehard .   14 Benna .   15 Edulfus .   16 Cuthwolfus .   17 Mucellus .   18 Deorlaf .   19 Cunemond .   20 Edg●r .   21 Tidhelm .   22 Wulfehelm .   23 Alfricus .   24 Athulfus .   25 Athelstan . 1055 26 Leovegard . Vacat sedes Ann. 4. 1060 27 Walterus . 1079 28 Robert Losinga .   29 Gerrardus , tr . to Yorke . 1107 30 Reinelmus Chan. to the Queene . 1115 31 Galfredus de Cliva . 1120 32 Richardus . 1131 33 Robert de Betun . 1149 34 Gilbert Foliot , tr . to London . 1162 35 Robert de Melun . 1174 36 Robert Foliot ▪ 1186 37 Gul. de Vere , * 1200 38 Egidius de Bruse . * 1216 39 Hugh de Mapenore . 1219 40 Hugh Foliot . 1234 41 Radulph de Maydestone . 1239 42 Peter de Egueblanc . 1268 43 John Breton , the geat Lawyer . 1275 44 S. Thomas Canterupe , Chan. of Oxford , and L. Chan. 1282 45 Richard Swinfeild . 1317 46 Adam de Orlton , L. Treas . transl . to Worcest . 1327 47 Thomas Carlton , Deputy of Ireland , and L. Treas . 1344 48 John Trilleck . 1361 49 Lud. Charlton . 1369 50 Gul. Courtney , tr . to London . * 1376 51 John Gilbert , L. Treas . tr . to S. Davids . 1389 52 John Tre●●ant . 1405 53 Robert Mascall . 1417 54 Edm. Lacy , tr . to Exeter . 1420 55 Tho. Polton , tr . to Chichest . 1422 56 Tho. Spofford . 1448 57 Rich. Beauchamp , tr . to Sarum . * 1450 58 Reginald Butler . * 1453 59 John Stanbery . 1574 60 Tho. Milling . 1492 61 Edm. Audley , tr . to Sarum . * 1502 62 Adrian de Castello , tr . to Welles . 1504 63 Rich. Mayo , Chan. of Oxford . 1516 64 Charles Boothe . 1535 65 Edward Foxe . 1539 66 John Skipp . 1553 67 John Harley . 1554 68 Robert Per●ewe . 1559 69 John Scorie . 1585 70 Herbert Westfaling . 1602 71 Robert Bennet ,   72 Francis Godwin . 1633 73 Augustin Lindsell . 1634 74 Matthew Wrenn . 1635 75 Theophilus Feild . 1636 76 Geo. Cooke , now Bishop . 1639. LLANDAFF , and the Bishops there . LLandaff is one of the most ancient Bishops Sees either in England or Wales ; and claimeth a direct succession from the Arch-Bishops of Caerleon upon Vske , as unto the Bishopricke ; though for the Metropolitan dignity it bee content to let S. Davids have what is left thereof . The first Bishop here , of whom is any good record , is S. Dubritius , consecrate Bishop of this places by Lupus and Germanus , what time they came hither out of France , for the extirpation of the Pelagian heresie . The Church here dedicated to S. Thelians , the next successour to S. Dubritius ; founded upon the River Taffi , and thence called Llandaff ; Llan , in the Welch tongue , signifying a Church ; a Church very well endowed by the munificence and piety of great persons in those times : so well , that as it is affirmed by Bishop Godwin , were it possessed now of the tenth part onely of what once it had , it might be reckoned one of the richest Churches in all Christendome . The ruine of it came in the time of Bishop Dunstan , alias Kitchin , who thereupon is called fundi nostri calamitas by Bishop Godwin ; The Diocese containeth onely part of Glamorganshire , and part of Momnouthshire , though the most of each : and in those parts , 177. Parishes , whereof 98. impropriations : and for them one Arch-Deacon , which is called of Llandaff . The Bishopricke is valued in the Kings bookes , 154. li. 14. s. 1. d. the Clergy paying for their tenth , somewhat neere that summe , viz. 155. li. 5. s. 4. d. It is to be observed , or may be if it please the Reader , that neither here , nor at Saint Davids , there is any Deane , nor never was in any of the times before us : the Bishop being head of the severall Chapters ; and in his absence the Arch-Deacon here , as is the Chanter at S. Davids . Bishops of Llandaff . A. Ch.       1 S. Dubritius . 522 2 S. Telian , alias Eliud .   3 S. Oudoceus .   4 Ubilwinus .   5 Ardanus .   6 Elgistil .   7 Lunapejus .   8 Comegern .   9 Argwistill .   10 Garvan .   11 Guodloin .   12 Edilbinus .   13 Grecielus .   14 Berthgwen .   15 Trychan .   16 Elvogus .   17 Catgwaret .   18 Cerenhit . 19 Nobis .   20 Gulfridus .   21 Nudd .   22 Cimelianc .   23 Libian .   24 Marcluith .   25 Pater . 982 26 Gogwan . 993 27 Bledri . 1022 28 Joseph . 1056 29 Herewaldus . 1107 30 Urbanus . Vacat sedes Annos . 6. 1139 31 Uhtred . 1148 32 Galfridus . 1153 33 Nicolas ap Gurgant . 1183 34 Gul. de Salso Marisco .   35 Henricus . 1219 36 Gulielmus . 1229 37 Elias de Radnor . 1244 38 Gul. de Burgo . 1253 39 John La Ware. 1256 40 Gul. de Radner . 1265 41 Gul. de Brews . * Vacat sedes Annos 9. 1296 42 John Monumeteus . 1323 43 John Eglescliffe . 1347 44 John Pascall . 1362 45 Roger Cradoc . 1383 46 Thomas Rushooke , translated to Chichester . 1385 47 Gul. de Bottlesham , translated to Rochester . 1389 48 Edm. Bromfeld . 1391 49 Tidemannus , translated to Worcester . 1395 50 Andrew Barret .   51 John Burghill , translated to Lichfeild . 1399 52 Thomas Peverell , translated to Worcester . 1408 53 John Zouch . * 1423 54 John Wells . 1441 55 Nicolas Ashby . 1458 56 John Hunden .   57 John Smith . 1478 58 John Marshall .   59 John Ingleby . 1504 60 Miles Salley . 1516 61 George Athequa . 1537 62 Robert Holgate , translated to Yorke . 1545 63 Anthony Kitchin. Vacat sedes , Annos 3 ▪ 1566 64 Hugh Jones . 1575 65 Gul. Blethin . 1591 66 Gervase Babington , translated to Oxford . 1595 67 William Morgan , tr . the Bible into Welch . 1601 68 Francis Godwin , tr . to Hereford . 1618 69 George Carleton , tr . to Chich. 1619 70 Thoph . Feild , tr . to S. Davids . 1628 71 John Murrey , Bishop of Kilfanore in Ireland . 1639 72 Morgan Owen , now Bishop there 1641. LINCOLN , and the Bishops there . THe Bishopricke of Lincoln , like that of Exeter , was once two Dioceses : the Bishops of the which had their severall seates , the one at Dorchester now a private Village , seven miles from Oxford ; the other at Sianacester , not farre from Gainsburgh , ( as Camden thinkes ) in the County of Lincoln , the ruines of the which are now invisible . But Sidnacester being in little time united unto Dorchester ; the Bishops See was not long after removed to Lincoln : and that by reason of a Canon made about that time , viz. An. 1075. by which all Bishops were enjoyned to live in the most famous and conspicuous place within their Dioceses . Which was the cause , why many of our Bishops did about this time remove their Sees ; as we have seene already , and shall see hereafter . For the Cathedrall Church here , it s of no more standing then the removall of the Bishops See to this place from Dorchester ; that which was once here founded by Paulinus , Arch-Bishop of Yorke , having beene long before this time quite ruined . But when Remigius translated hither the Episcopall Chaire , hee also built this Church for receipt thereof . Which being not long after defaced by fire , was for the most part repaired and beautified by Bishop Alexander , one of his successours : but brought unto that state in which now it is , by Hugh of Burgundy , and certaine other of the Bishops the Church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary , and All-Saints . As for the Diocese , it is the greatest still for jurisdiction , and was once one of the greatest for revenue in all the Kingdom . But for the jurisdiction , that hath been shortned , though at severall times : the Bishoprick of Ely being taken out of it by King Henry the first , as those of Peterburgh , and Oxford , by King Henry 8. yet still it is the largest Diocese in all the Ki●gdome ; containing the whole Counties of Lincoln , Leicester , Huntingdon , Bedford , Buckingham , and part of Herefordshire . In which great quantity of ground , there are 1255. Parishes , whereof 577. are impropriations ; for government of which under the Diocesan there are sixe Arch-Deacons , viz. of Lincoln , Leicester , Bedford , Buckingham , Stow , & Huntingdon . The Clergies tenth is answerable unto this great extent of jurisdictiō , being no lesse then 1751. li. 14. s. 6. d. The Bishoprick being valued at 894. li. 10. s. 1. d. ob . in the K. bookes . Now for the dignity of this seate , wee will adde but this , that it hath yeelded to the Church three Saints , and to Rome one Cardinall ; unto the realme of England sixe Lord Chancellours , and one Lord Treasurer , and one Lord Keeper ; foure Chancellours to the University of Oxford , two to Cambridge ; And that the B●shops here , were heretofore Vice ● Chancellours to the See of Canterbury . Which being thus premised , I shall proceede in ordering the Bishops here , as I did at Exeter . Bishops of Sidnacester . A. Ch.     678 1 Eadhedus .   2 Ethelwinus .   3 Edgar .   4 Kinelbertus , 733 5 Alwigh . 751 6 Eadulfus . 764 7 Ceolulfus . 787 8 Eadulfus , II. after whose death this Church being a long time vacan● , was joyned to Dorchester . Bishops of Dorchester . 635 1 Birinus . 650 2 Agilbertus .   ✚ ✚ ✚ 737 3 Tota . 764 4 Edbertus .   5 Werenbertus . 768 6 Unwora . 816 7 Rethunus . 851 8 Aldredus . 873 9 Ceolredus .   10 Halardus .   ✚ ✚ ✚ 905 11 Ceolulfus . 12 Leo●winus , who first united the See of Sidnacester , unto that of Dorchester . 960 13 Ailnothus .   14 Ascwinus .   15 Alshelmus .   16 Eadnothus . 1016 17 Eadhericus . 1034 18 Eadnothus . II. 1052 19 Ulfus Normannus . 1053 20 Wulfinus , after whose death Remigius his successour removed the Bishops See to Lincoln , who from hence forward are to be entituled Bishops of Lincoln . 1070 21 Remigius de Feschamp S. 1092 22 Robert Bloet . L. Chan. 1123 23 Alexander , L. Chan. 1147 24 Robert de Chesney . Vacat sedes , Annos 17. 1183 25 Walter de Constantiis , L. Chan. 1186 26 S. Hugh . 1203 27 Gul. Blesensis . Vacat , Annos 3. 1209 28 Hugo Wallis , L. Chan. 1235 29 Robert Grosthead . 1254 30 Henry Lexington . 1258 31 Benedict de Gravesend . 1280 32 Oliver Sutton . 1300 33 John Aldbery . 1319 34 Thomas Beake . 1320 35 Henry Burwesh , L. Treas . * 1341 36 Thomas Le Beck . 1351 37 John Sinwell . 1363 38 John Bokingham . 1397 39 Henry Beauford . * 1405 40 Phil. de Repingdon , Card. Ch Ox. 1420 41 Richard Flemming ▪ 1431 42 Gul. Grey . 1436 43 Gul. Alnwick . 1450 44 Marm. Lumley , Chan. Camb. 1452 45 John Chadworth . 1471 46 Thomas Rotheram , Lord Chancel . and Ch. Cambr. 1480 47 John Russell , Lord Chan. and Chan. Oxford . Vacat Annos 5. 1495 48 Gul. Smith , Chan. Oxford . 1412 49 Thomas Wolsey Almoner , trransl . to Yorke . 1414 50 Gul. Atwater . 1521 51 John Longland , Chan. Oxford . 1547 52 Henry Holbech . 1552 53 John Tayler . 1553 54 John White . 1557 55 Thomas Watson . 1559 56 Nicolas Bullingham . 1570 57 Thomas Cowper , tr . to Winton . 1584 58 Will. Wickham , tr . to Winton . 1594 59 Will. Chadderton . 1608 60 Will. Barlowe . 1613 61 Rich. Neyle , tr . to Durham . 1617 62 Geo. Monteine , tr . to London . 1921 63 John Williams , L. Keeper , now Bishop of Lincoln . 1641. LONDON , and the Bishops there . LOndon was heretofore the principall of the three Arch-bishopricks amongst the Britons , and by Pope Gregory was intended to have beene so too amongst the English : but that Saint Austin whom hee sent to convert the Saxons , liking of Canterbury well , resolved to set his staffe up there , without going further . This had before beene prophecied by Merlin , that Dignitas Londoniae adornaret Doroberniam , and was now accomplished . What , and how many were the Arch-bishops here , we have no good Constat . Sixteene are named by Bishop Godwin , but with no great confidence : but howsoever doe not come within my compasse , who have confined my selfe to the Saxons time , in the first infancie of whose conversion , this City was designed for a Bishops See. The Cathed , Church built also in those early dayes by Ethelbert , the first Christian King of all the English ; but afterwards much beautified and enlarged by Er●enwald , the fourth Bishop . Which Church of theirs being 500. yeeres after destroyed by fire : that which now stands was built in the place thereof , by Mauritiu● , Richardus his successour , and certaine others of the Bishops ; a great part of it at their owne charge , the residue by a generall contribution over all the Kingdome . And when it was defaced by fire in the late Queenes time , An. 1561. the Qu. forthwith directed her letters to the Major of London , willing him ( as Iohn Stowe , the City Chronicler reports it ) to take order for speedy repairing of the same : which was done accordingly . The Bishop of this Diocese hath precedencie before all Bishops of the Realme , next the two Archbishops , together with the dignity and place of Deane , unto the Metropolitan See of Canterbu●y . The nature of which office is , not onely to preside over the rest of the Bishops at Synodicall meetings , in case the Metropolitan be absent : but to receive his mandats , for assembling Synods , and other businesse of the Church ; and having so received them , to intimate the tenour and effect thereof to the Suffragan Prelates . Examples of the which see in the Acts and Monuments . And for this Diocese it selfe , it containeth in it the two Counties of Middlesex , and Essex , with that part of Hertfordshire , which is not in the Diocese of Lincoln : wherein are reckoned 623. Parishes , and of th●m 189. impropriated : for government whereof there are five Arch-Deacons , viz. of Lo●don , Middlesex , Essex , Colchester , and Saint Al●ans . Valued it is in the Kings bookes 1119. li. 8. s. 4. d. the Clergies tenth amounting to the summe of 821. li 15. s. 1. d. Finally , th●s See hath yeelded to the Church three Saints , to the State nine Lord Chancellours , sixe Lord Treasurers , one Chancellour of the Exchequer , two Masters of the Rolls , besides foure Almoners to the Court , and two Chancellours to the University of Oxford ; whose names occurre amongst these following . Bishops of London . 606 1 S. Melitus , tr . to Cant.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 654 2 Ceadda . 666 3 Wina . 665 4 S. Erkonwald . 685 5 Waldherus .   6 Ingualdus .   7 Egwolfus .   8 Wighed .   9 Eadbright .   10 Edgarus .   11 Kenwalchus .   12 Eadbaldus .   13 Hecbertus . 801 14 Osmundus , alias Oswinus . 833 15 Ethelnorthus .   16 Ceolbertus .   17 Renulfus , alias Ceonulfus .   18 Suithulfus . 851 19 Eadslanus . 860 20 Wulfius .   21 Ethelwardus .   22 Elitan . 898 23 Theodredus .   24 Walstanus .   25 Brithelmus . 958 26 Dunstanus , S. tr . to C●nt . 962 27 Alfstanus .   28 Wulfstanus .   29 Alhumus .   30 Alwy .   31 Elfwardus . 1044 32 Robert Normannus . 1050 33 Gul. Normannus . 1070 34 Hugo de Orevalle . 1087 35 Mauritius , L. Chan. 1108 36 Richard de Beaumis . 1128 37 Gilbertus . Vacat sedes , Annos 7. 1140 38 Robert de Sigillo . 1151 39 Richard Beaumis . II 1161 40 Gilbert Foliot . 1189 41 Richard Nigellus , L. Trea● . 1199 42 Gul. de S. Maria. 1222 43 Eustatius de Falcon bridge . Chan of the Exchequer , and L. Treas . * 1229 44 Roger Nigor . 1244 45 Fulco Basser . * 1259 46 Henry de Wingham . , L. Treas . 1261 47 Richard Talbot . 1263 48 Henry de Sandwich . 1274 49 John de Chisul . L. Chan. and L. Treas . 1280 50 Richard de Gravesend . 1305 51 Radulf de Baldock , L. Chan. 1313 52 Gilbert Segrave . 1317 53 Richard Newport . 13●8 54 Stephen Gravesend . 1338 55 Richard Bentworth , L. Chan. 1339 56 Radulf Straford . 1355 57 Nicol. Northbrooke . 1361 58 Sim. Sudbury , tr . to Cant. 1375 59 Gul. Courtney , Chan. Ox. transl . to Cant. * 1381 60 Rob Braybroke . 1404 61 Roger Walden , L. Treas . 1406 62 Nicolas Bubweth , Master of Rolls , and L. Treas . 1407 63 Richard Giffard . 1421 64 John Kemp. L. Chan tr . to Cant. 1426 65 Cul. Grey , tr . to Lincoln . 1431 66 Robert Fitz-Hugh . * 1435 67 Robert Gilbert . 1449 68 Thomas Kemp. 1489 69 Richard Hill. 1497 70 Thomas Savage . 1500 71 Will. Warham , L. Chan. transl . to Cant. 1505 72 William Barnes . 1506 73 Richard Fitz-James . 1522 74 Cutbert Tunstall , tr . to Durham . 1530 75 John Stokesley . 1540 76 Edm. Bonner , displa . by K. Edw. 6. 1549 77 Nicolas Ridley , displaced by Qu. Mary , and Bonner restored againe , 1553. 1559 78 Edm. Grindall , tr . to Yorke . 1570 79 Edwin Sandis , tr . to Yorke . 1576 80 John Elmer , Bishop Almoner . 1594 81 Richard Fletcher , Bishop Almoner 1597 82 Richard Bancroft , tr . to Cant. 1604 83 Richard Vaughan . 1607 84 Thomas Ravis . 1609 85 George Abbot , tr . to Cant. 1611 86 John King. 16●1 87 George Monteine , Bishop Almoner . 1628 88 Will. Laud. Ch. Oxford , transl . to Cant. 1633 89 William Juxon , Bishop of London , and L. Treas . 1641. NORWICH , and the Bishops there . THe Diocese of Norwich , like those of Exeter and Lincoln , was once two Bishopricks : the one of Suffolk , whose seate was Dunwich on the Sea shoare ; the other of Norfolk , whose See was at North-Elmham , now a poore Village not farre from Repeham . The Bishop of the first was Felix a Burgundian , who first converted the East-Angles . The third from him was Bisus , who finding himselfe , by reason of his age , too weake for so great a burden , divided his Diocese into two , making North Elmham the Episcopall seate for that part of the whole which we now call Norfolke . Both of them lay long dead in the times of the Danish furie : that of North-Elmham after an hundred yeeres desolation , ●eviving onely ; the other laid to rest for ever . North Elmham thus possessed of the whole jurisdiction , could not hold it long : the Bishops See being removed to Thelford first by Herfastus ; as afterwards from thence to Norwich by Herebert Losinga . There it hath since continued till these very times , though nothing else continue of it but the See alone . For all the lands thereto belonging were taken from it by King Henry the 8. those which did formerly appertaine unto the Monastery of Saint Bennets in the Holme ( by that King dissolved ) being assigned unto it by exchange . For which consult ▪ the Statute , 32. H. 8. 47. in the which Statute it is said that the lands given in recompence were of a greater yeerely value then those taken from it . So that the Bishop , as it seemes , got in revenue ▪ then , though he lost in priviledge . For whereas the Bishops here had the fi●st f●uits of all the Benefices within the Diocese , by an ancient custome : that was united to the Crowne by Act of Parliament , 26. H. 8. c. 3. Now for the Church of Norwich , it was founded first by him who first remo●ed hither the Bishops See , even by Herebertus Losinga ; and by him dedicated to the blessed Trinity : Which being much defaced by fire , ( which was it seemes , a common calamity of all the Churches of those times ) was afterwards repaired by Iohn of Oxford , the third after him ; and once againe being fire-touched , by Bishop Midleton , who brought it to that state in which now it stands . This See hath yeelded to the Church two Saints , to the Realme five Chancellours , one Lord Treasurer , and one Lord Chiefe Justice , one Bishop Almoner to the Court , and to the King one principall Secretary of State. The Diocese containeth in the two Counties of Norfolke and Suffolke , 1121. Parish Churches , whereof 385. impropriate : for better ordering of the which it hath foure Arch-Deacons , viz. of Norwich , Norfolke , Suffolke , and Sudbury . Finally , this Bishoprick is valued in the Kings bookes , 899. li. 18. s 7. d. ob . The tenth of the whole Clergy amounting to the summe of 1117. li. 13. s. ob . Now for the line of Norwich it is thus drawne downe . Bishops of the East-Angles . A. Ch.     630 1 S. Felix . 647 2 Thomas Diaconus . 652 3 Bregilfus . 665 4 Bisus , by whom this Diocese was divided into those of Elmham . 1 Bedwinus . 2 Northbertus . 3 Headulacus . 734 4 Eadilfredus . 5 Lanserthus . 6 Athelwolfus . 7 Alcarus . 8 Sibba . 9 Alherdus . 10 S. Humbertus , after whose death , both Sees lay vacant for the space of 100. yeeres . Dunwich . 1 Acca . 2 Astwolfus . 3 Eadfarthus . 4 Cuthwinus . 5 Aldberthus . 6 Aglafius . 7 Hardulfus . 8 Aelphunus . 9 Thedfridus . 10 Wer●undus . 11 Wilredus . the last Bishop of Dunwich . 955 11 Astulphus , Bishop of both Sees .   12 Alfridus .   13 Theodredus .   14 Athelstan .   15 Algarus . 16 Alwinus .   17 Alfricus . 1038 18 Alifrejus .   19 Stigandus , tr . to Winton . 1043 20 Grinketell . 1047 21 Ethelmar .   22 Herfastus , who removed the See to The●ford , L. Chan.   23 Gul. Galsagus , L. Chan. after whose death the Bishops See was removed to Norwich , and his successours thence intituled Bishops of Norwich . 1088 24 Herebert Losinga , L. Chan. 1120 25 Everardus . 1151 26 Gul. Turbus . 1177 27 John Oxford . 1200 28 John G●ey , L. Chiefe Justice . Vacat Annos . 7. 1222 29 Pandulphus . 1226 30 Tho. de Blundevi●le . 1236 31 Radulphus . Vacat Annos ▪ 3. 1239 32 Gul. Ralegh , tr . to Winton . 1244 33 Walter de Sufeild . 1253 34 Simon de Wantam ▪ 1268 35 Roger de Skerwing . 1278 36 Gul. Middleton . 1288 37 Radul . Walpoole , translated to Ely. 1299 38 John Salmon , L. Chan. 1325 39 Robert Baldock , Lord Chancellour . 1325 40 William Ayermyn , Lord Keeper , and L. Treas . 1337 41 Ant de Beck .   42 Gul. Bateman . 1354 43 Tho. Percy . * 1370 44 Henry Spencer . 1408 45 Alexander . 1413 46 Richard Courtney . * 1416 47 John Wakering . 1426 48 Gulielmus Alnwick , translated to Lincoln . 1436 49 Tho. Browne . 1445 50 Walter Hart. 1472 51 James Goldwell , principall Secretary . 1499 52 Tho. Jan. 1500 53 Richard Nix . 1536 54 Gul. Rugg , alias Reppes . 1550 55 Thomas Thirleby , translated to Ely. 1554 56 John Hopton . 1560 57 John Parkhurst . 1575 58 Edm. Freke , translated to Worcester . 1584 59 Edm. Scambler . 1594 60 Gul. Redman . 1602 61 John Jegon . 1618 62 John Overall . 1619 63 Sam. Harsnet , tr ▪ to . Yorke . 1628 64 Fr. White , Almoner , tr . to Ely. 1632 65 Richard Corbet . 1635 66 Matthew Wrenn , Deane of the Chappell , tr . to Ely. 1638 67 Richard Montague , Bishop of Norwich , died 1641. OXFORD , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Oxford is of new erection , first founded by King Henry 8. and by him endowed out of the lands belonging to the late dissolved Monasteries of Abingdon and Osney . It was before a part of the Dio●ese of Lincoln : and being now made a Bishoprick , had first the Abbey Church of Osney ( being some halfe a mile from Oxford ) for its Cathedrall , Anno 1541. from whence it was removed to Oxford about five yeeres after . That which is now the Cathedrall , was anciently dedicated to Saint Frideswide : but being by King Henry made the Bishops See , was entituled Christ-Church : the Chapter there consisting of a Deane and eight Prebendaries by him also founded , part of the lands which had been purchased or procured by Cardinall Wolsey for the indowment of his Colledge , being allotted thereunto . This Bishoprick was founded then , An. 1541. and from that time , unto the yeere , 1603. when Doctor Bridges was made Bishop , are 63 , yeeres onely , or there abouts : of which it was kept vacant above 40 yeeres even almost all the long raigne of Queene Eliz●beth ; to the impoverishing of the Church , before well endowed . The Diocese containeth onely the County of Oxford , and therein 195 ▪ Parish Churches , of which 88. are impropriated . It hath but one Arch-Deacon , which is he of Oxford ; is valued in the Kings bookes , 354. li. 16. s. 4. d. ob . the Clergies tenth comming unto 255. li. 8. s. Bishops of Oxford . A. Ch.     1541 1 Robert King , last Abbat of Osney . Vacat Ann. 10. 1567 2 Hugh Curwyn . Vacat Ann. 20. 1589 3 John Underhill . Vacat Ann. 11. 1603 4 John Bridges . 1619 5 John Howson , tr . to Durhum . 1628 6 Richard Corbet , tr . to Norwich . 1632 7 John Bancroft , died Bishop of Oxford , Anno 1640. PETERBURGH , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Peterburgh is of new erection , and taken also out of Lincoln , as Oxford was . The Cathedrall Church was anciently a Monastery , the place or towne of old called Medeshamstede ; but on the building of the Abby-Church , founded by Wol●her King of the Mercians , Anno 633. and by him dedicated to Saint Peter , it gained the name of Peterburgh . This Church by him thus built , was after ruined by the Danes , and againe built and beautified by Ethetwoldus Bishop of Winton , Anno 960 ▪ or there abouts : upon whose mediation it was exceedingly liberally endowed by Edgar then King of England ; Adulph then Chancellour to that King , giving unto it also his whole estate . Thus it continued in a flourishing and faire estate , untill King Henry dissolved it ▪ and having so dissolved it , did by his Letters Patents make it a Bishops See , and founded also here a Chapter consisting of a Deane and sixe Prebendaries . The Diocese hereto allotted , containeth the two Counties of Northhampton , ( in the which Peterburgh standeth ) and Rutland : and in them both 293. Parishes , whereof 91. are impropriate . It hath but one Arch-Deacon , which is entituled of Northhampton : is valued in the Kings bookes 414. li. 19. s. 11. d. the Clergy paying for their tenth , 520. li. 16. s. 8. d. Bishops of Peterburgh . A. Ch.     1541 1 John Chamber , the last Abhat of Peterburgh . 1557 2 David Poole . 1560 3 Edm. Scamber , tr . to Norwich . 1584 4 Richard Howland . 1600 5 Thomas Dove . 1630 6 Gul. Pie●s , tr . to Welles . 1632 7 Augustine Lindsell , tr . to Heref. 1634 8 John Dee of Chichester . 1638 9 John Towers , Dean of Peterburgh , now Bishop here . 1639. ROCHESTER , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Rochester , is the most ancient next to Canterbury , of all in England : a Bishops See being here erected by that S. Austin , who first did preach the Gospel unto the Saxons , Anno 606. which was about ten yeeres after his entrance into England . The Cathedrall Church here , first ●rected by Ethelbert King of Kent , when it was first made a Bishops See ; and by him dedicated to Saint Andrew : which growing ruinous and dedicated , was afterwards repaired by Gundulp●us , one of the Bishops of the same , about the yeere 1080. This Bishoprick was anciently , and a long time together , in the immediate Patronage of the Arch-Bishop of Cauterbury ; who did dispose thereof as to them seemed best ; and so continued , till under the pretence of free and capitular elections , the Popes had brought all Churches into their owne hands . However after this , the Bishops of Rochester owed more then ordinary obedience to their Metropolitan : and in all solemne Pompes were commonly their Crosse-bearers . The Diocese hereof is the least in England , containing onely a small part of Kent , and therein not above 98. Parishes , of which 36. impropriate : for ordering of which jurisdiction , there needed not but one Arch-Deacon , which is he of Rochester . Nor is the valuation much , either of the Bishoprick , or of the Clergy : the one being in the Kings bookes , 358 li. 3. s. ● . d. q. the other paying for their tenth , the least of any of the English , viz. 222. li. 14. 6 d. ob . q. And yet this little See hath yeelded to this Realme , one Chancellour , one Lord Keeper of the great Seale , and one Lord ▪ Treasurer , and to the Church of Rome , one Cardinall . The Bishop of this Church writes himselfe Roffensis . Bishops of Rochester . A. Ch.     606 1 Justus , tr . to Canterbury . 622 2 Romanus . 631 3 Paulinus , Arch-Bishop of Yorke . 644 4 Ithamar . 656 5 Damianus . 669 6 Putta . 676 7 Quichelmus . 681 8 Gebmundus . 693 9 Tobias . 717 10 Adulfus . 741 11 Duina . 747 12 Eardulfus .   13 Diora .   14 Weremundus . 800 15 Beornmod .   16 Tadnoth .   17 Bedenoth .   18 Godwinus . 19 Cutherwolf .   20 Swithulsus .   21 Bu●ricus .   22 Cheolmund .   23 Chireserth .   24 Burrhicus .   25 Alfanus . 984 26 Godwinus . II.   27 Godwinus . III. 1058 28 Siwardus . 1075 29 Arnostus . 1077 30 Gundulphus . 1108 31 Radulphus , tr . to Cant. 1115 32 Barnulphus . S. 1125 33 Johannes . 1137 34 Ascelir●●s . 1147 35 Walterus . 1183 36 Gualeranus . 1185 37 Gilbertus Glanvill . 1214 38 Benedictus . 1227 39 Henry de Samford . 1238 40 Richard de Wendover . 1251 41 Laurent . de S. Martino . 1274 42 Walt. de Merton , L. Chan. 1278 43 John de Bradfeild . 1283 44 Tho. de Inglethorp . 1291 45 Tho. de Wuldham . 1319 46 Haimo de Heath . 1352 47 John de Shepey , L. Treas . 1361 48 Gul. de Witlesey , tr . to Worcest . 1363 49 Tho. Trilley . 1372 50 Tho. Brinton . 1389 51 Gul. de Bottlesham . 1400 52 Joh. de Bottlesham . 1404 53 Richard Young. 1419 54 John Kemp , tr . to Chichester . 1422 55 John Langdon . 1434 56 Tho. Browne , tr . to Norwich . 1436 57 Gul. de Welles . 1443 58 John Lowe . 1467 59 Tho. Rotheram , tr . to Lincoln . 1471 60 John Alcock , L. K. tr . to Worcester . 1476 61 John Russell , tr . to Lincoln . 1480 62 Edm. Audley , tr . to Here●ord . * 1492 63 Tho. Savage , tr . to London . 1496 64 Rich. Fitz-James , tr . to Chic●ester . 1504 65 John Fisher , Cardinall . 1536 66 John Hilsey . 1539 67 Nic. Heath , Almoner , tr . to Worc. 1544 68 Henry Holbech , tr . to Lincoln . 1547 69 Nic. Ridley , tr . to London . 1550 70 Jo. Poyner , tr . to Winton . 1551 71 John Scory , tr . to Chichester . 1554 72 Maurice Griff●n . 1559 73 Edm. Gheast , tr . to Sarum . 1571 74 Edm. Freake , tr . to Norwich . 1576 75 John Piers , Almoner , tr . to Sarum . 1578 76 Jo. Young. 1605 77 Gul. Barlowe , tr . to Lincoln . 1608 78 Rich. Neyle , tr . to Lichfeild . 1611 79 John Buckeridge , tr . to Ely. 1627 80 Walt. Curle , tr . to Welles . 1630 81 John Bowle , now Bishop , 1637. 1637 82 John Warner , Deane of Lichfeild . now Bishop of Rochester , 1641. SALISBURY , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Salisbury succeeded in the rights of two severall Dioceses , whereof the one had its Cathedrall or chiese See at Sherborn , in the County of Dorset ; the other at Wilton , once the chiefe towne of Wiltshire , but since the growth of Salisbury very much decayed . Of these the ancienter was Sherborn , whose Diocese extended once over all those Countries , which are now subject to the jurisdiction of Sal●●bury , Bristol , Welles , and Exeter . But Welles and Exeter being made peculiar Dioceses , Anno 905. as we there have shewed , another was erected the same time at Wilton also . Which when it had continued under nine Bishops , and no more , was then againe united unto Sherborne ; and both together presently removed to Salisbury , as being the chiefe City of these parts , and consequently more fit for a Bishops See. And yet it stayed not long there neither , being removed againe in little time , unto a more convenient place . For by Herm●nn●● it was fixed upon the hill , in that old fortified towne , now called old Salisbury : which being found by soone experience to be no proper seate for a Bishops dwelling ; the See was presently brought lower , and with it the towne . Herm●nnus who removed the See from Sherborne , did first begin the Church at old Sarum ( for so some Latine writers call it ) which Osmund , his successor finished . Rich. sirnamed Poore , the fourth-from Osmund , removed the See into the Valley , and first began that Church which wee now see standing : which being finished in the yeere ▪ 1258. by Bishop Bridport , was ded cated to the honour of the blessed Virgin. Thus was the See of Sherborne removed to Salisbury , where it hath ever since continued in great fame and lustre . As for the priviledges of this Church , the Bishops anciently did claime to be Praecentors to their Metropolitan , and of more late dues to bee Chancellours of the most noble order of the Ga●ter . Which office being instituted by King Edward 4. and by him vested in the person of Rich. Beauchamp of Sarum , and his successors in that See : was after in the new Starutes made by Henry 8. left solely to the Kings disposing , either to Clergy-man or Lay-man , as to them seemed best . Nor hath it beene enjoyed by any Clergy-man since that time , though in the yeere 16●8 . it was much laboured for by Bishop Cot●o● . This Diocese containeth in it the Counties of Berks , and Wiltes , ( for that of Dorset was dismembred from it by King Henry 8. and laied to Bristol , ) and in them two , 544. Parish Churches , of which 109. are impropriations . It hath moreover three Arch-Leacons , viz. of Salisbury , Berks , and Wilts ; is valued in the Kings bookes , 1367. li. 11. s. 8. d. the Clergy paying for their tenth , 901. li. 8. s. 1. d. Finally , this See hath yeelded to the Church one Saint , and to Rome two Cardinals , unto the Realme of England , one Lord Cheife Justice , three Lord Chancellours , two Lord Treasurers , as many Masters of the Rolls ; two Chancellours t● the University of Oxford , and one to Cambridge . The Bishops of this See , we will Marshall thus . Bishops of Sherborne . A. Ch.     705 1 Adhelmus . 709 2 Fordhere . 738 3 Herewaldus .   4 Ethelwaldus .   5 Denesrith .   6 Wilbertus . 817 7 Easthanus . 868 8 Eadmundus . 872 9 Eheleage .   10 Alfy .   11 Asserius , sirnamed Menevensis . 883 12 Swithelmus , alias Sigelmus .   13 Ethelwaldus , II. after whose death this Diocese was divided into many parts , those of Welles , Cridington , and Saint Germans , ( both which now make Exe●er ) being taken out of it , Anno 905. by Plegmundus Arch-Bishop of Canterbury . At which time also there was another See erected for these parts at Wilton , whose seate was sometimes there , and sometimes also at Ramsbury , and Sunning . Bishops of Sherborn . Wilton . A. Ch.     905 14 Werstanus . 918 15 Ethel●aldus .   16 Sigelmus . II. 934 17 Alfredus . 940 18 Wulfeinus . 958 19 Alfwoldus . 978 20 Ethelricus .   21 Ethelsius .   22 Brithwinus . 1009 23 Elmerus .   24 Brinwin .   25 Elfwoldus , after whose death Hermannus , who had be fore beene Bishop of Wilton , and resigned that Church , because the Monkes of Malmesbury would not give him leave to remove his See Episco pall unto their Abby ; was made Bishop of Sherborne : and having joyned both Sees together , did shortly after remove both to Salisbury : of which himselfe , and his successors were afterwards entituled Bishops of Wilton 905 1 Ethelstanus .   2 Odo . 934 3 Osulphus . 970 4 Alsstanus . 981 5 Alfgarus .   6 Siricus , tr . to Cant. 989 7 Alfricus , tr . to Cant. 998 8 Brithwoldus . 1045 9 Hermannus , the last Bishop of Wilton . Bishops of Salisbury .   26 Hermannus , the 26 Bishop of this Diocese , and first that had his See at Sarum . 27 S Osmundus , L. Chan. 1107 28 Rogerus , L. Chiefe Justice , Lord Chan. and L. Treas . 1139 29 Jocelinus . Vacat sedes Ann. 4. 1189 30 Hubertus Walter , tr . to Cant. 1193 31 Herebertus Pauper . 1●17 32 Richard Poore . 1229 33 Robert Bingham . 1247 34 Gul. Eboracensis . 1256 35 Egidius de Bird-port . 1263 36 Walter de la W●le . 1274 37 Robert de Wike-hampton . 1284 38 Walter Scammell . 1287 39 Henry de Braundston . 1289 40 Gul. de la Corner . 1291 41 Nicolas Longespee . * 1298 42 Simon de Gandavo . 1315 43 Roger de Mortivall . 1329 44 Robert Wivill . 1375 45 Radulph Erghum , tr . to Welles . 1388 46 John Waltam , Master of the Rolls , and L. Treas . 1395 47 Richard Metford . 1407 48 Nicolas Bubwith , tr . to Welles . 1408 49 Rob. Hallam , Card. Chan. Oxford . 1417 50 John Chaundler . 1427 51 Robert Nevill . * 1438 52 Will. Aiscoth , Clerk of the Coun. 1450 53 Richard Beauchamp , first Chan. of the G. * 1482 54 Lionell Widdeville , Chancel . Oxford . * 1485 55 Tho. Langton , tr . to Winton . 1493 56 John Blythe , Master of the Rolls , Chan. of Cambridge . 1500 57 Henry Deane , tr . to Cant. 1502 58 Edmund Audley . * 1524 59 Laurence Campejus , Card. 1535 60 Nicolas Shaxton . 1539 61 John Salcot , alias Capon . 1559 63 John Juell . 1571 64 Edm. Gheast , Bishop Almoner . 1578 65 John Piers Bishop Almoner , tr . to Yorke . Vacat Ann. 3. 1591 66 John Coldwell . Vacat Ann. 2. 1598 67 Henry Cotton . 1615 68 Robert Abbot . 1618 69 Martin Fotherby . 1620 70 Robert Tonson . 1621 71 John Davenant , died Bishop of Salisbury . 1641. WESTMINSER Bishops , Deans , and Abbats . THe Bishoprick of Westminster , as it related to the Saxons , was of late erection ; and being so erected was of small continuance : but anciently in the Britons time , the Church there was the See for the Arch-bishop of London . For whereas some had found in some Record , that the Arch-Bishops See was planted in the Church of Saint Peter in Cornhill : certaine it is , that that was a mistake for Saint Peters in Thorney . Now Thorney is the ancient name of that , which is since called Westminster : and being an ancient Saxon name , was farre more likely to be meant by the first reporter , then that of Cornehill , which is meerely moderne . But this Arch-Bishoprick being brought to nothing by the Saxons , Sebert the first christned King of Essex , erected here a Church , where the former was , and dedicated it unto Saint Peter , as was that before , which standing Westward of Saint Pauls , was by the common people commonly called Westminster . This Temple of King Seberts , being in tract of time growne ruinous , and almost de●erted , Edward the Confessour againe rebuilt , and liberally endowed , and stored with Monkes , by him removed hither from Exeter . After King Henry 3. taking downe the fabrick of the Confessour , erected it as now it standeth ; save that the Abbats much enlarged it towards the West , and that King Henry 7. built that most goodly Chappell at the East end thereof . The Abbats here had Archiepiscopall jurisdiction within their liberties , and had the keeping of the Regalia , and a chiefe service in the Coronation of the Kings of England , and place in Parliament : in all which rights , save that of Parliament , the Deanes now succeed them For when this Monastery ( which at the suppression was valued at 3977. li. ) was dissolved by King Henry 8. first he erected here a Deanrie , Anno 1539. then added to the Deane a Bishop , Anno 1541. Thi●leby the Bishop , having delapidated all the Patrimo ny to his See allotted ; and robbed S. Peter to pay Paul , as the saying is , was removed to Norwich , and so the Bishoprick determined ; having continued nine yeeres onely : and Middlesex , which was the Diocese thereof , was restored to London . Queene Mary afterwards brought in an Abbat , and her foundation being dissolved by Queene Elizabeth , the made it a Collegiate Church , consisting of a Deane and 12. Prebendaries , as it still continues . The Bishop , Deanes , and Abbat of Westminster . A Ch.     1539 1 Gul. Benson , the last Abbat , and first Deane . 1541 2 Thomas Thirleby , the one , and onely Bishop of Westminster , tr . to Norwich . 1550. 3 Richard Coxe Deane , after Bishop of Ely. 1553 4 Hugh Weston Deane . 1556 5 John Fechnam Abbat . 1560 6 Gul. Bill Deane . 1561 7 Gabriel Goodman . 1601 8 Lancelo● Andrewes , after Bishop of Chichester , &c. 1605 9 Richard Neyle , after Bishop of Rochester , &c. 1610 10 George Monteine , after Bishop of Lincoln , &c. 1617 11 Robert Tonsou , after Bishop of Sarum . 1620 12 John Williams , Lord Keeper Bishop of Lincoln , and Deane of Westminster . 1641. WINCHESTER , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Winchester ( Wintoniensis in the Latine ) is of good antiquity ; and never changed the See since the first foundation , as all the rest have done in the South-West parts . The City once the Regal seat of the West - Saxon Kings . The Cathedrall Church first founded and endowed by Kingil , or Kinegilsus , the first Christian K. of West-Sax : who gave unto it all the land within seven miles of Winchester . Kinelwalchin , son unto this Kingil , went forwards with his fathers fabricke , ratified his donation , and added to it amongst other things , the Manors of Alresford , Downten , and Worthy . The Church now standing was begun by Bishop Walkelin , the worke pursued by his successors , but yet not finished till the time of William de Wickham , who built the greatest part of the West end thereof . The Chappels on the East end beyond the Quire , had their severall founders . The whole Church dedicated first unto Saint Amphibalus , then to Saint Peter , after unto Saint Swithin , once Bishop here ; and last of all unto the blessed Trinity , as it still continues . The Bishops here are Chancellours to the See of Canterbury , and Prelates of the most noble order of Saint George , called the Garter : which office was first vested in them by King Edward 3. at the first foundation of that Order , and hath continued to them even since . They were reputed anciently to be Earles of Southampton ; and are so stiled in the new Statutes of the Garter , made by Henry 8. but that now otherwise disposed of . Finally what for priviledge , and what for large possessions it was prized so high , that Henry of Bloys , ( he was the brother of King Stephen ) once Bishop here , had got a faculty from the Pope , to make it an Arch Bishops See ▪ seven of the Suffragans of Cante●bury , being allotted thereunto . And William de Edington , one of the Bishops of this Church , being elected unto Cante●bury , re●used it , saying , though Canterbury had the highest rack , yet Winchester had the deep●st manger . The Diocese hereof contained of old , the Counties of S●rrey , and Sou●hampton , and the Isle of Wight : to which was added in Qu. Elizabeths time , the Islles of Iarsey , Garnsey , Sack , and Alderney , once members of the Bishoprick of Constance in Norma●dy . Of these the English Isle and Counties containe 362. Parishes , of which , 131. impropriate : the Isle of Iarsey , 121. and Garnsey with the other two , as many more . For government of the English part there are two Arch-Deachns , the one of Winchester ; and the other of Surrey : Iar●●y is governed by a Deane or Commissary , according to the manner of the English Church ; and Garnsey with the Isles appendant , follow the fashions of Geneva . The Bishoprick was anciently valued in the Kings books , 3885 li. 3. s. 3. d. ob . q. now at , 2793. li. 4. s. 2. d. qa. q. lesse by a thousand pounds then before it was : which plainely sheweth that there hath beene a great abatement of the old revenue ; The tenth of the Clergy amounteth unto , 846. li. 12. d. Finally , this See hath yeelded to the Church seven Saints , and to Rome , two Cardinals ; to England , one Lord Chiefe Justice , sixe Lord Chancellours , two Lord Treasurers , one Lord Privie Seale , one Chancellour of the University of Oxford , another of the Exchequer , and 21. Prelates of the Garter , whose names are to be found among●t these following . Bishops of Winton . A. Ch.       1 Wina .   2 Eleutherius . 673 3 S. Headda . 704 4 Daniel . 744 5 Humfridus . 756 6 Kinchardus .   7 Hathelmardus , tr . to Cant.   8 Egbardus .   9 Dudda .   10 Kinebertus .   11 Alhmundus .   12 Wighthenius .   13 Herefridus . 834 14 Edmundus . 15 Helmstanus . 837 16 S. Swithinus . L. Chan. 863 17 Adhferthus . 871 18 Dumbertus . 879 19 Denewulfus .   20 S. Athelmus , alias Bertulfus , 905 21 S. Frithstanus . 931 22 Brinstanus . 946 23 Elpheus Calvus .   24 Elssinus , alias Alf●us . 958 25 Brithelmus . 963 26 S. Ethelwoldus . 984 27 S. Elphegus . 1006 28 Kenulphus . 1008 29 S. Brithwoldus . 1015 30 Elsmus . 1038 31 Alwinus . 1043 32 Stigandus , tr . to Cant. 1070 33 Walkelinus . Vacat sedes , Annos 10. 1107 34 Gul. Giffard . 1129 35 Henricus Blesensis . * Vacat sedes , Annos 3. 1174 36 Richard Toclivius . 1189 37 Godfr . de Lucy . 1204 38 Petr. de Rupibus , L. Ch. Justice . 1243 39 Gul. de Ralegh . 1249 40 Ethelmarus . Vacat sedes , Annos 4. 1265 41 John Oxon. 1268 42 Nicolas Eliensis . 1280 43 John de Pontisara . 1304 44 Henry Woodlock . 1316 45 John Sandal , Chan. of the Exch. L. Chan. and L. Treas . 1320 46 Reginald Asserius . 1323 47 John Stratford , L. Chan. L. Treas . tr . to Cant. 1333 48 Adam de Orlton . 1345 49 Gul. de Edingdon , L. Treas . and the first Prelate of the Garter . 1365 50 Will. de Wickham , L. Chan. 1405 51 Henry Beaufort , Card. L. Ch. * 1447 52 Will. de Waniflete , L. Ch. 1486 53 Peter Courtney . * 1493 54 Tho. Langton . 1502 55 Rich. Foxe , L. Privie Seale . 1530 56 Tho. Wolsey , Card. L. Chan. 1534 57 Stephen Gardiner , displaced , 1549. 1550 58 John Poynet , who being removed , Bishop Gardiner was restored , 1553. and made L. Ch. 1556 59 John White . 1560 60 Robert Horne . 1580 61 John Watson . 1584 62 Thomas Cowper . 1595 63 Will. Wickham . 1595 64 Will. Daye . 1596 65 Tho. Bilson . 1617 66 James Montagu , Deane of the Chap. 1618 67 Lancel . Andrewes , Deane of the Chap. 1628 68 Rich. Neyle , tr . to Yorke . 1632 69 Walt. Curle , now Bishop of Winton , Prelate of the Garter , and Bishop Almoner , 1641. WORCESTER , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Worcester , ( Wigorniensis in the Latine ) was founded by Etheldred , King of the Mercians , Anno 679. and taken out of the Diocese of Lichfeild , of which first it was . The Cathedrall Church here , by him also built ; but afterwards repaired , or new built rather by severall Bishops of this See. Oswald the eighteenth Bishop here did first undertake it , and casting out the married Priests , first brought in the Monkes , Anno 96● . but his foundation being ruined by the Danes , the Church was brought to that perfection wherein now it standeth , by Bishop Wulstan , about the yeere 1030. Since when it ha●h enjoyed a flourishing and faire estate : and ( which is very rare ) can hardly make complaint of any vacancie : save that on the exauctoration of Bishop Heath , it was assigned over in Commendam to Master Hooper then Bishop of Gloucester . But it held not long . This Diocese containeth in it the County of Worce●ter , and part of Warwickshire : and therein ●41 . Parishes , of which 71. impropriate ▪ for these there is but one Arch-Deacon , which is called of Worcester . Valued it is in the Kings bookes , 1049. li. 17. s. 3. d. ob . q the Clergy paying for their tenth , 228. li. In point of honour it may pleade thus much , that in the flourishing times of the See of Canterbury , the Bishops here were the peculiar Chaplaines of the Metropolitans : and by their Office to say Masse in all assemblies of the Clergy , wherein he was present . As also that it hath yeelded to the Church foure Saints ; five Chancellours to the Realme of England , and one to Normandy ; Lord Treasurers three , one Chancellour to the Queen then being ; one L. President of Wales , and one Vice-President : whom , with the residue of the Bishops , take here in order . Bishops of Worcester . A. Ch.     679 1 Boselus , first Bishop of W●rcest .   2 Ostforus . 693 3 S. Egwinus . 714 4 Wilfridus . 717 5 Milredus .   6 Weremundus . 778 7 Tilherus . 781 8 Eathoredus . 799 9 Denebertus . 822 10 Eadbertus . 844 11 Alwinus . 872 12 Werefridus . 911 13 Wilfreth . 915 14 Ethelhunus . 922 15 Wilfreth . II. 929 16 Kinewoldus .   17 S. Dunstanus , tr . to London . 950 18 S. Oswaldus . 971 19 Adulfus .   20 Wulfstanus .   21 Leossius . 1033 22 Britteagus . 1038 23 Livingus . 1049 24 Aldredus . 1060 25 S. Wulfstanus . 1097 26 Sampson . 1115 27 Theolphus . 1125 28 Simon , Chan. to Qu. 〈◊〉 .   29 Aluredus .   30 John Pagham .   31 Rogerus . 1181 32 Baldwinus , tr . to Cant. 1189 33 Gul. de Northale . 1191 34 Robertus .   35 Henricus . 1196 36 John de Constantiis . 1200 37 Maugerus . 1212 38 Walt. Grey , L. Ch. tr . to Yorke . 1216 39 Silvester . 1218 40 Gul. de Bloys . 1237 41 Walt. de Cantilupe . * 1268 42 Nich. de Ely , L. Chan. translated to Wint. 1269 43 Godsr . Giffard , L. Chan. 1302 44 Gul. de Gainsburgh . 1308 45 Walt. Reynold , L. Chan. and L. Treas . tr . to Cant. 1313 46 Walt. Maydestone . 1317 47 Thomas Cobbam . 1327 48 Adam de Orlton , tr . to Wint. 1333 49 Simon de Montacute . * 1337 50 Tho. Hennyhall . 1342 51 Wulstan de Brandford . 1349 52 Joh. Thursby , L. Ch. tr . to Yorke . 1352 53 Reginald Brian . 1362 54 Joh Barnet , L. Treas . tr . to Welles . 1363 55 Gul. Wittlesey , tr . to Cant. 1368 56 Gul. de Lynne . 1375 57 Henry de Wakefeild , L. Treas . 1395 58 Tideman de Winchcomb . 1401 59 Rich. Clifford , tr . to London . 1407 60 Tho. Peve●ell . 1419 61 Phil. Morgan , Chan. of Normandy , tr . to Ely. 1426 62 Tho. Polton . 1435 63 Tho. Bourchier . , tr . to Ely. * 1443 64 John Carpenter . 1476 65 John Alcock , L. Chan. tr . to Ely. 1487 66 Robert Morton . 1497 67 John Gigles . 14●9 68 Silvester Gigles . 1521 69 Juliu● de Medices , after Pope Cle●ent the 8. * 1522 70 Hieron . de Nugutiis , an Italian . 1535 71 Hugh La●●mer . 1539 72 John Bell. 1543 73 Nico● ▪ Heath , displaced by King Edward 6. and the See put over in 〈◊〉 to Master Hooper Bishop of Glocester , but restored after by Queene Mary , 〈…〉 L. pres . of Wales , tr . to Yorke . 1554 74 Richard Pates . 1599 75 Nich. Bullingham . 1576 76 John Whi●gift , Vice-President of Wales , for Sir H. Sidney , transl . to Canterbu●y . 1584 77 Edm. Freake . 1593 78 Rich. Fletcher , tr . to London . 1596 79 Tho. Bilson , tr . to Winton . 1597 80 Gervase Babington . 1610 81 Henry Parry . 1617 82 John Thornborough , now Bishop of Worcester . 1641. THE SECOND PART OF THE CATALOGVE OF BISHOPS , CONTAINING THE SVCCESSION of the Arch-Bishops and Bishops of the Province of YORKE . Printed at London . 1641. YORKE , and the Arch-Bishops there . YORKE is the ancientest Metropolitan See at this time in England , so made at the first generall admittance of the Gospel in the time of Luctus ; the first Arch-Bishop by him here established , named Sampson , and he who held out last in the Britons time , being called Tadiacus . We have a constat onely of two more , viz ▪ Taurinus , and Pyrannus : of all the rest no name , or memory to be found amongst our writers . On the conversion of the Saxons , this See was by Pope Gregory designed to its former honour : which not long after took e●●ect , when as Paulinus was made Arch-Bishop of Yo●ke , Anno 622. In which designment of the said Pope Gregory , the Metropolitan of Yorke , was to have as many Suffragan Bishops , as he of London ( for there the See was to be placed by Pope Gregories order ) to either of them twelve apeece , which if they ever were erected in this Northerne Province , were certainly of meane estate , not able to support the honour ; and consequently , swallowed up by the greater Churches of Yorke and Durham : which two were onely left here a long time together untill Carlile first was made a Bishopricke by K. Henry the first ; as Chester afterwards by K. Henry 8. But that which was the greatest addition to the Province of Yorke , was the direct and Metropolitan jurisdiction which it claimed and had over all the Bishops of Scotland , who did from hence receive their con●ecration , and swore Canonicall obedience unto this See. In this regard , and that it was conceived that by Pope Gregories institution , he of the two Arch-Bishops which was first confirmed , should have precedencie over the other : there grew a great contention there abouts , betweene them , and much recourse was made to the Court of Rome . At last it was determined in favour of the See of Canterbury : yet so that still it might he lawfull to the Arch-Bishop of Yorke to write himselfe Prim●te of England ; as the other taking to himselfe the stile of Primate of all England , as it still continueth . The next misfortune which besell the See and Metropolitan of Yorke , was that the Bishops of Scotland did in fine withdraw themselves from his obedience , and had Arch-Bishops of their owne . This hapned whilest George Nevill was Arch-Bishop here , who was advanced unto this See , An. 1466. not above ninescore yeeres agoe : and then upon pretence , that in consideration of the many and most deadly warres betweene both Realmes , the Metropolitan of Yorke could beare no fatherly affection to his sonnes of Scotland . However the Archbishop still retaines his●wonted place , having precedencie before all Dukes , not being of the royall bloud ; as also before all the great Officers of state , except the Lord Chancellour . For the Cathedrall Church of Yorke , it was first built , or begun rather , by King Edwyn , King of the North-Humbers , Anno 627. but finished by King Oswald who succeeded him , and dedicated to Saint Peter . But this of their foundation being destroyed by fire , and by the fury of the Danes , at the first entrance of the Normans : that which now standeth was erected in the place thereof by Arch-Bishop Thomas ( the 25. of this See ; ) and after , by degrees , adorned and beautified by his successors . The Diocese hereto belonging , containeth in it the two Counties of Yorke and Nottingham : and in them both 581 Parishes , of which 336. are impropriations . For government whereof , it hath foure Arch-Deacons , viz. of Yorke , Cleveland , East-riding , and Nottingham . This Bishoprick was at the first rated in the Kings bookes , 2035. li. 14. s. 6. d. but now , since the great diminution made by King Henry 8. 1609. li. 19. s. 2. d. And for the Clergy of the same , their tenth amounteth unto 1113. li. 17. s. 9. d. ob . q. To draw unto an end , this See hath yeelded to the Church eight Saints , to the Church of Rome three Ca●dinals , unto the Realme of England twelve LL. Chancellours , and two LL. Treasurers , and to the North of England two Lord Presidents . The Bishops write themselves in Latine , Eboraunses , of Eborum , and are these that follow . Arch-Bishops of Yorke . A. Ch.     622 1 S. Paulinus , died 644. Vacat Annos 20. 666 2 Cedda .   3 Wilfridus .   4 S. Bosa . 687 5 S. John of Beverley . 718 6 S. Wilfridus . II. 731 7 S. Egber●us . 767 8 Adelbertus . 781 9 Eanbaldus . 797 10 Eanbaldus . II.   11 Wolsius . 832 12 Wimundus . 854 13 Wil●erus . 897 14 Ethelbaldus .   15 Lodewardus .   16 Wulf●tanus . 955 17 Oskitellus . 972 18 Athelwaldus . 972 19 S. Oswaldus . 993 20 Aldulphus . 1003 21 Wulfstanus . II. 1023 22 Alfricus . 1050 23 Kinsius . 1061 24 Aldredus . 1070 25 Thomas . I. 1101 26 Girardus . 1109 27 Thomas . II. 1119 28 Thurstan . 1141 29 Henry Murdac . 1153 30 S. Gulielmus . 1154 31 Rogerus . Vacat sedes Annos 10. 1191 32 Geofr . Plantagenet , L. C●an . * Vacat sedes Annos 4. 1217 33 Walter Grey , L. Chan. 1256 34 S. S●wa●u● . 1258 35 ●od●●ey ●e Kinton . 1265 36 Walter ●iffard , L. Chan. 1279 37 Gul. Wickwane . 1285 38 John Romanus . 1288 39 Henry de Newark . 1299 40 Tho. Corbridge . 1305 41 Gul. de Greenfeild , L. Chan. 1317 42 Gul. de Melton , L. Ch. & L. Treas . 1342 43 Gul. Zouche , L. Treas . * 1352 44 John Thursby , L. Chan. 1373 45 Alexander Nevill . 1388 46 Tho Arundel . L. Chan. tr . to Cant. * 1396 47 Robert Waldby . 1397 48 Richard Scrope . * 1406 49 Henry Bowet . 1425 50 John Kemp , L. Chan. tr . to Cant. 1453 51 Gul. Boothe . 1466 52 George Nevill , L. Chan. * 1477 53 Lawrence Boothe 1480 54 Thomas Rotheram , L. Chan. 1501 55 Thomas Savage . 1508 56 Christopher Bambridge , Card. 1515 57 Thomas Wolsey , Card. L. Chan. 1531 58 Edward Lee. 1544 59 Robert Holgate , Lord Pres. of the North. 1553 60 Nicolas Heath , L. Chan. 1560 61 Tho. Young , L. Pres. of the North. 1570 62 Edm. Grindall . tr . to Cant. 1576 63 Edwyn Sandys . 1588 64 John Piers. 1594 65 Matthew Hutton . 1606 66 Tobias Matthewes . 1627 67 George Monteine . 1628 68 Sam. Harsnet . 1631 69 Richard Neyle , who died Octob. 31. 1640. CARLILE , and the Bishops there . THe most of that which doth now make the Diocese of Carl●●e , was in the infancie of the English Church , as I conceive it , part of the Diocese of Whit herne , or Casa Candida , in the Province of Galloway : now reckoned as a part of Scotland , but then a parcell of the Kingdome of the North-Humbers . But when the Scots had mastred all those countries beyond Tweede and Solway , the towne of Carlile , with the County of Cumberland , in the which it standeth , were severed from that Diocese : Carlile , with 15. miles about it being bestowed upon S. Cutbert , Bishop of Lindisfarne , by Egfride , King of the North-Humbers , Anno 679 ; the residue of the Countty submitting to the jurisdiction of the Arch-Deacon of Richmond , then being subordinate the See of Yorke . Thus it contin●ed till the yeere 1133. what time a Bishops See was here first established : and by that meanes , another Suffragan Bishop ●dded to that Metropolitan . The Cathedrall Church he●e had beene founded not long before , by Walter , Deputy of these parts for King William Rufus ; and by him dedicated to the honour of the blessed Virgin but finished and endowed by King Henry the first , out of that wealth which the said Walter had amassed for that very purpose , by the perswasion of Athulphus or Athelwolfus , whom aft●rwards hee made the first Bishop there . The Diocese containes the County of Westmorland , and most part of Cumberland ; and therein onely 93. Parishes , but those ( as all the Northerne are ) exceeding large ; and of them 18. are impropriate . Arch-Deacon here was never any , the jurisdiction being claimed by him of Richmo●d , as anciently to him belonging . The Bishoprick is valued in the Kings bookes 530 li. 4. s. 11. d. ob . the Clergies tenth amounting onely unto 161. li. 1 s. 7. d. ob . And yet this little See , and so farre remote , hath yeelde● to this Kingdome one Chancellour , and two LL. Treasurers , besides three Chancellours unto the University of Cambridge . Bishops of Carlile . A. Ch.     1133 1 Athelwolsus , or Athelwardus .   2 Bernardus died Anno 1186. Vacat sedes Ann. 32. 1218 3 Hugo . 1223 4 Walt. Mau-Clerke , L. Treas . 1247 5 Silvester de Everdon , L. Chan. 1255 6 Tho. Vipont . * 1258 7 Rob. Chause . 1280 8 Rad de Ireton . 1288 9 John de Halton . 1318 10 John de Rosse . 1332 11 John de Kirkby . 1353 12 Gilbert de Welton . 1363 13 Tho. de Appleby . 1396 14 Robert Reade . 1397 15 Tho. Merkes . 1400 16 Gul. Strickland . 1419 17 Roger Whelpdale . 1423 18 Will. Barrowe . 1430 19 Marm. Lumley , L. Ch and Ch. Ca. * 1450 20 Nith . Close , tr . to Lich. 1452 21 Gul. Percy , Chan. of Camb. * 1362 22 John Kingscore . 1464 23 Richard Scrope . * 1468 24 Edw. Storey Ch. of Camb. 1478 25 Rich. Dunelmensis . 1496 26 Gul. Sever , tr . to Durham . 1503 27 Roger Leibourne . 1504 28 John Penny. 1520 29 John Kite . 1537 30 Robert Aldrich . 1356 31 Owen Ogilthorpe . 1561 32 John Best . 1570 33 Rich. Barnes , tr . to Durham . 1577 34 John Mey . 1598 35 Henry Robinson . 1616 36 Robert Snowdon . 1620 37 Rich. Milborne . 1624 38 Rich. Senhouse . 1628 39 Francis White , tr . to Norwich . 1629 40 Barnabas Potter , now Bishop of Carlile . 1641. CHESTER , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Chester , as it is here to be considered , is of new erection , one of those founded by King Henry 8. whereof we spake before when we were in Bristol . Anci●ntly it was in the Diocese of Lichfeild , one of the Bishops of which Church , removing his See hither , Anno 1075. as to the more remarkable and noted place ; occasioned that his successours many times were called Bishops of Chester . But being severed from that Diocese by King Henry 8. it was erected into an Episcopall See , made up of the revenue and jurisdiction of the two Arch-Deaconries of Richmond and Chester : of which the first had jurisdiction over Richmondshire , and part of Cumberland ; the other over Lanca-shire and Chest-shire . It was at first ●oundation ordained to be of the Province of Canterbury ; and that in the letters Patents of the ●oundation of the same ▪ 33. H. 8. But the King taking into minde , as well the long distance of the same from the See of Canterbury , as also that the Arch Bishop of Canterbury had a sufficient number of Suffragans before , whereas the Arch-Bishop of Yorke had but onely two : did in the Ianuary following , by Act of Parliament , annex the same for ever to the Province of Yorke . 33. H. 8. c. 31. The Cathedrall Church here was once a Monastery , founded by Leofricus , once an Officiary Count , in these parts ; and by him dedicated to Saint Wereberg : but repaired , beautified , endowed , and stored with Monkes by H●gh , sirnamed Lupus , the first Earle of Chester . These Monkes being ejected by King Hen●● 8. he brought into their place a Deane and Prebendaries : and made it of a Monastery , a See Episcopall : Whose Diocese containeth , in the Counties before remembred , 256 ▪ Parishes , of which 101. are impropriations . The Bishoprick is valued in the Kings bookes , 42● . li. 1. s. 8. d. and for a tenth unto the Crowne , the Clergy pay the yeerely summe of 435. s. 12. The Bishops of Chester . A. Ch.     1541 1 John Bird , removed hither from Bangor . 1556 2 John Cotes . 1556 3 Cuthbert Scott . 1561 4 William Downeham . 1579 5 William Chadderton , tr . to Lincoln . 1595 6 Hugh Biller . 1597 7 Ri●h . Vaughan , tr . to London . 1604 8 George Lloyde . 1616 9 Tho. Morton , tr . to Lichfeild . 1618 10 John Bridgeman , now Bishop of Chester . 1641. DURHAM , and the Bishops there . THe Bishops See now fixed in Durham , was first placed in Lind●●arne , a little Iland on the Sea-coast of Northumberland : and there placed by the first Bishops of this Northerne region , because of the primacie and solitude thereof , which made it thought more fit and proper for devotion . But both the Bishop and his Monkes being driven from thence , by the mercilesse furie of the Danes , ( who here raged extremely ) about the yeere of Christ , 800. they wandred up and downe from place to place for 200. yeeres , not finding any place where they might repose themselves in safety , till in the end they sate them downe in Durham , Anno 990. or there abouts , where it hath ever since continued . The Church here dedicated to Saint Cuthbert , the 6. Bishop of Lindisfarne , a man of speciall renowne for piety ; whose reliques the said Bishops carried up and downe with them in all their wandrings : till at the last they were deposited in this Church , as in a place of rest and safety . The founder of it , that Aldwinus , by whom the See was fi●st here setled . But his foundation being taken downe by William de Carileso , about the first entrance of the Nor●ans : that which now standeth was begun by him in the place thereof ; and finished by Ranulphus Flambard , his next successour . Somewhat hath since beene added to it by Bishop Fernham , and Thomas Weiscomb Pri●ur h●reof , about the yeere 1242. Nor did Saint Cu●hbert onely give name unto the Church , but also unto all that countrey , which now we call the Bishopricke of Durham , and anciently was called Saint Cuthberts Patrimony . For upon 〈◊〉 , and his successours in that See , was all the countrey betweene Tois and Tine , conferred by Alfred King of England : which his donation was confirmed , and in part increased by his successours , Edward , Athelstan , and C●ute the Dane . So fortified it was with priviledges , and royall grants , that at the comming in of the Norman Conquerer , the Bishop was reputed for a County Palatine : and did engrave upon his Seal an armed Chivalier , holding a naked sword in one hand , and in the other the Bishops armes . Nay it was once adjudged in law , that the Bishop was to have all forfeitures & Escheates within the liberties , ut Rex habet extra , as the King of England had without . But these immunities and priviledges were in part impaired by the Statute of King Henry 8. 27. H. 8. c. 25. and altogether with the lands and whole rights thereof , conferred upon the Crowne by Act of Parliament , in the last yeere of the ●aigne of King Edward 6. But in the second Parliam . of Qu. Maries reigne , that Act was totally repealed , and a reviver made of the said late dissolved Bishop● ▪ and all the royalties therof , 1. Mar. c. 6. As for the Ecclesiasticall jurisdiction , the Diocese thereof containeth the County of Northumberland , and that which properly and distinctly is entituled the Bishopricke of Durham : each of the which hath an Arch-Deacon of its owne ; in both , 135. Parishes , whereof 87. impropriate : the Clergy of the which pay for their tenth unto the Crowne , 385. li. 5. s. 6. d. ob . the Bishopricke being valued in the first fruit Office , 1821. li. 1. s. 5. d. qa . The Bishops of this Church doe write them selves in Latine Dunelmenses ; of which five have beene dignified with the name of Saints ; one with the Patriarchate of Hierusalem , and one with the title of a Cardinall in the Church of Rome . There have been also of them , one Lord Chiefe Justice , five LL. Chancellours , three LL. Treasurers , one principall Secretary of Estate , one Chancellour of the University of Oxford , and two Masters of the Rolls . Which wee will now lay downe in order , even the whole succession , beginning with those who had their See and habitation in the Isle of Lindisfarne . Bishops of Lindisfarne . A. Ch.     637 1 S. Ardanus . 651 2 S. Finanus . 661 3 Colmannus . 664 4 Tuda . 665 5 S. Ea●a . 684 6 S. Cuthbertus . 687 7 S. Eadbertus . 698 8 Egbertus . 721 9 Ethelwoldus . 738 10 Kenulfus . 781 11 Higbaldus . 802 12 Egbertus . II 819 13 Egfridus . 845 14 Eanbertus . 854 15 Eardulfus .   16 Cuthardus . 915 17 Tilredus . 927 18 Witherdus . 944 19 Uhtredus .   20 Sexhelmus .   21 Aldredus . 968 22 Alfius , alias Elfinus . 990 23 Aldwinus , who first setled the See at Durham , from whence both hee and his successors have beene ●●●led Bishops of Durham . 1020 24 Eadmundus . 1048 25 Eadredus . 1049 26 Elgelricus .   27 Egelwinus . 1071 28 Walcher , Earle of Northu●b . 1080 29 Gul. de Carileso , L. Ch. Justice Vacat sedes Annos 4. 1099 30 Ranulfus Flamhard , L. Treas . 1128 31 Galfredus Rufus , L. Chan. 1143 32 Gul. de S. Barbara . 1154 33 Hugh Pudsey , E. of Northomb . * 1197 34 Philip de Pictavia . 1217 35 Rich. de Marisco . 1228 36 Rich. Poore . 1241 37 Nich. de Fernham . 1250 38 Walt. de Kirkham . 1260 39 Rob. Stitchell . 1274 40 Rob. de Insula . 1283 41 Ant. Beck , Patriark of Hierusalem . 1311 42 Rich. Kellowe . 1317 43 Ludowick Beaumont . * 1333 44 Rich. de Bury , L. Ch and L. Treas . 1345 45 Tho. Hatfeild , princ . Secretary . 1381 46 John Fordham , L. Tr. tr . to ●●ly . 1388 47 Walt. Ski●lawe . 1406 48 Tho. Langley , Card. L. Ch. 1438 49 Rob. Nevill . * 1457 50 Lawrence Boothe , L. Chan. 1476 51 Gul. Dudley . * 1383 52 John Sherwood . 1494 53 Rich. Foxe , tr . to Winton . 1502 54 Gul. Sevier , Chan. of Oxford . 1507 55 Chr. Bambridge , Master of the Rolls tr . to Yorke . 1508 56 Tho. Ruthall . 1523 57 Tho. Wolsey , then 〈…〉 of Yorke . 1530 58 Cuthbert Tunstall 〈…〉 Rolls . 1360 59 James Pilking 1577 60 Rich. 〈…〉 Vacat sedes Annos 2. 1589 61 Ma●●h . Hu●●on , tr . to Yorke . 1594 62 Tobias Matthew , tr . to Yorke . 1606 63 Gul. James . 1617 64 Rich. Neyle , tr . to Winton . 1628 65 John Howson . 1632 66 Tho. Morton , now Bishop of Durham . Anno 1641. HEXAM , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Hexam , Hagul●●ad , or Hextold , was founded in the infancie of the Saxon Church . The seate thereof called by the old La●ines Axel●dunum , by Be●a Hagulstadiensis ; by us now Hexam : the first who had the name of Bishop there being S. Eata , the fifth Bishop of Lindisfarne . Ten Bishops it enjoyed successively , and then by reason of the spoyle and ravin of the Danes , it discontinued : the jurisdiction of it being added to the See of Yorke From this time forwards , Hexamshire was held to be a fee of that Arch-Bishoprick , and had reputation of a County Palatine : but taken from that See by K. H. 8. ( of which consult the Statute , 37. H. 8. c. 16 ) and by authority of Parliament united to the County of Northumb. Now for the Bishops of this Hexam , they are these that follow . A. Ch.     655 1 S. Eata , Bishop of Lindisfarne . 685 2 S. John of Beverley , tr . to Yorke . 709 3 S. Acca . 734 4 Frithebertus . 769 5 Alhmundus .   6 Tilherus . 789 7 Ethelbertus . 787 8 Heandredus . 809 9 Eanbertus .   10 Tidferthus , the last Bish ▪ of Hexam . MAN , and the Bishops there . TOuching the Isle of Man , we have spoke already in our first Table . The Bishoprick here of was first erected by Pope Gregory , of that name the fourth , and for its Diocese had this Isle , and all the Hebrides , or Westerne Ilands a●ent Scotland . The Bishop hath his seate in Russin , or Casletowne , as now we call it ; and in the Latine is entituled Sodo●ensis But wh●n this Isle was made a member of the English Empire , the Westerne Isles withdrew themselves from the obedience of their Bishop , and had a Bishop of their own , whom they entitle also Sodorensis , but commonly , Bishop of the Isles . The Patronage of the Bishoprick , was given together with the Iland , by K. H. 4. unto the Stanleys , who still keep it : and on the vacancie thereof they nominate their designed Bishop unto the King , who having given his Royall assent , dismisseth him to the Arch-Bishop of Yorke for his consecration . This is perhaps the reason why the Bish. of Man , is no Lord of Parliament , because not at the Kings disposing : none having suffrage in that house , but those that hold immediately of the King himselfe ; nor is it reason that they should . Whether the Bishop of this Isle was anciently a Su●●ragan to the See of Yorke , I can hardly say . I finde ordered in the Act of Parliament , 33. H. 8. c. 31. wherein the Bishoprick of Chester was made a member of that Province ; that that of Man should be reputed of it also : which may perhaps perswade one , that it was otherwise before . The Diocese hereof containeth onely 17 Parishes , of the which five are Market Townes ; the rest Villages , the people of them all , being very conformable unto the rites and ceremonies of the Church of England . Now for the Bishops of this See , I can meete with few : and therefore . shall desire those who are more conversant in the businesse of this Isle , to supply this want , and make a perfect catalogue of the Bishops of Man , out of the fragments here ensuing . Bishops of Man.   ✚ ✚ ✚ A. Ch.     Michael , Bishop of Man. 1203 Nicolas . 1217 Reginald . 1257 Richard , Bishop of Man , dedicated the Church of S. Maries in Russin .   ✚ ✚ ✚   He●●● Mann , who died , Anno 1556 ,   John Merick .   George Lloyd , removed to Chester , An.   1604.   Forster .   Parry , now Bishop of Man , 1641. THE THIRD TABLE , OR , A CATALOGVE OF All the Dukes , Marquesses , and Earles , which have been in England since the first entrance of the NORMANS . TOGETHER With the honourary Offices which they , or any of 〈◊〉 have enjoyed in their severall times . The Preface to the ensuing Catalogne of Dukes , Marquesses , and Earles . THe Kings of England as they are the fountaine of all authority and jurisdiction in their owne Dominions : so are they the foun●aine also of all civill honour ; which they dispose of and dispence , as to them seemes best . King● have so much of God in them , whose Deputies they are on earth , as many times where they finde merit and desert , to raise the poore out of the dust , that they may set them with the Princes , even with the Princes of their people . Now for their honourary attributes , which by our Kings have beene conferred upon their Subjects ; the ancientest are those of Earle and Baron : the Kings of England , of the Norman race , not giving unto any the stile of Duke , untill that Edw. the third , created his sonne Edward the black Prince , Duke of Cornwall , Anno 1336. As for the title of Marquesse , that was made honourary by King Richard the second , who first created his great favourite , Robert de Vere , then Earle of Oxford , Marquesse of Dublyn : as afterwards he made his Cosen German , Iohn de Bausort , one of the sonnes of Iohn of Gaunt , by Katherine Swinfort , then Earle of Somerset , the first Marquesse Dorset . But that of Earles hath beene as ancient in this Kingdome , as the line of Normandy . William the Conqu●r●r advancing many to that honour at his first en●●ance on this State , both to reward them for their service , and oblige them to him . Of which ranke were the Earles of Arund●ll , Chester , Cornwall , Kent , Oxford , with some others , Anno 1067. being the next yeere after he attained the Kingdome . Which with the other Earles of ancient creation , were commonly endowed de tertio denario placitorum Comitatus , with the third penny of the pleas of that County wherof they were Earles the other two parts being accompted by the Sheriffe ( the Vice-Comes ) into the ▪ Exchequer , for the Kings use . And though we mean to go no lower in our following Catalogue , then the stile of Earle ; yet by the way we may take notice , that Viscount here became an honourary title in the time of K. H. 6. who in the 18. of his raigne advanced Sir Iohn Beaum●nt unto that honour , and gave him place above all Barons , as Richard 2. gave his new Marquesses precedencie before all Earles . Now at the ennobling of deserving persons into these high dignities , it is , and hath beene of later times the custome of the Kings of England , to give unto them some set pension for the support of their estate : which is now generally brought unto this proportion , that Viscounts have a fee of 20. markes , Earles of 20. li. Marquesses of 40. markes , and Dukes of 40. li. assigned unto them , out of some part or other of the Kings revenues . Which bounty I observe not to have beene used in the creation of a Ba●on , excepting onely that it pleased his sacred Majesty now being , when hee created the righ● honourable Montjoy Blount ( now Earle of Newport ) L. Montjoy of Thurleston , in the County of Darby , to give unto him and his heires , a fee of 20. markes per annum ▪ which I note here , by reason of the singularity and rarenesse of it . Nor have the Kings of England beene ●●customed to frame new honourary titles , for the advancement of those men which are dear unto them : but to preferre them before others of the same honourary ranke and order ▪ Henry the sixth bearing especiall affection unto Henry Beauchamp , Earle of Warwick , first made him the prime Earle of England , or Praecomes Angliae . And when he after made him Duke of Warwick , hee ordered him to have precedencie , next after the Duke of Norfolke , and before the Duke of Buckingham . The ●ame King Henry making his halfe-brother Edmund of H●dham , Earle of Richmond , gave him the place above all Earles , and next of all unto the Dukes . Thus did King Iames of blessed memory conferre upon the Earle of N●●tingham , ( on his surrendry of the place and Office of Lord Admirall ) the seniority and precedencie of the Mowbraies , ( out of which house he was extracted ) during the life of the said Earle . And thus his sacred Majesty now being , when he created the right honourable the Vis●ount Walling ford , Earle of Banbury , gave him precedencie before all Earles , created since his Majesties happy comming to the Crowne . And in the Patent of creation of the right honourable the Lord Montjoy , 3. Can there was a clause of precedencie inserted , before all the Barons of that yeere , by which hee forthwith had the place both of the Lord Craven , and the Lord Falconbridge , though created before him . So absolute a power have our English Monarchs in the dispensing of their honours , and ma●shalling those persons whom they have advanced to these high dignities . As for the Female sex , they have no reason to complaine that they have beene neglected or omitted in the distributing of these honourary rewards and dignities : some of them having had the happinesse to taste the bounty of the Prince in the highest honours . For thus the Lady Margaret d● Brotherton , daughter of Thomas of Brotherton , Earle of Norfolke , was by King Richard the second , made Dutchesse of Norfolke , Anno 1398. And thus the Lady Anne Bullen , daughter of Thomas Earle of Wil●s , was by King Henry 8 made Marchionesse of Pembroke , Anno 1532 ▪ as was the Lady Margaret , daughter of Georg● D. of Clarence , created Countesse of Salisbury by the same King Henry ; Anno 1514 ▪ Thus also the Lady Elizabeth Finch , being by King Iames created Viscountesse M●idstone , was by our gracious Sove●a●gne Lord now being , created Countesse of Winchelsey , Anno 1628. the dignity entailed on the heires males of her body hegotten . And finally , thus was the Lady Elizabeth Richardson , wife of Sir Thomas Richardson Lord Chiefe Justice , created Baronesse Cramont , by his Majesty now re●gning not to say any thing of the Lady Mary Fane Baronesse Despencer , or of the Lady Margaret Lennard , Ba●onesse Dacres of the South ; being restitutions rather then creations . Now for the method which I am to use in this following Catalogue , it shall be after the most naturall of the Alphabet ; as being of most ease and speediest use in finding what we have a minde to looke for . And in the same I shall lay downe the just successions of and in each severall title , ( premising first a brief description of the plac● denominating ) together with the yeere of Christs nativity , wherein each severall Duke , Earle , or Marquesse either succeeded in the place , or was advanced unto the same . I also shall report in briefe , on what pretext of bloud such and such men attained those honours which they have enjoyed ; If any neernesse or descent of bloud was pretended by them : and where a family breakes off , and a new comes in , that I have marked with a few crosses thus . ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ I have observed also who and how many of each title have managed any of the great and honourary Offices in the Common-wealth : as those of Lord high Steward , Lord high Chamberlaine , Lord ●●●●table , Lord Admirall , Lord Chancellour , Lord Treasurer , Lord Chiefe Justice , or Lord Privie Seale ; together with the Lord Steward , and Lord Chamberlaine of hi● Majesties houshold , and the LL. Presidents of Yorke and Wales , and Chancellours or either o● the Universities . Such of them as have had the honour to be admitted into the Order of the Garter , I have noted with this littl●●sterisme * . And all this I have done 〈…〉 much brevity as was possible ▪ 〈◊〉 nothing in this place but a Nomenc●●tor ▪ a 〈◊〉 and naked Catalogue of names and ho●ours , for the more easie understanding of o●r English History , which was the matter which first moved me to compose 〈◊〉 Tables . As for the order of precedencie of the men themselves , that are thus dignified and advanced , as now they stand ; that is to be accounted from and by the seniority of their creations in their severall series : save that a course was tooke in Parliament , 31. H. 8. c. 10. for placing those above the rest , which were entrusted with the greatest Offices of State and Court. As , viz. that of the Lord Chancellour , or Lord Keeper , Lord Treasurer , Lord President , Lord Privie Seale , Lord Constable , Lord high Chamberlaine , Lord Admirall , Lord Marshall , together with the Lord Steward , and Lord Chamberlaine of his Majesties houshold . Which manner of precedencie being it is personall , as unto the men , and hath no reference to their place and titl●● , 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 with the times , according as they 〈…〉 and favour with their 〈◊〉 and Soveraign● . But for the places which have given 〈◊〉 and title to Dukes , Marquesses , or Earles ; and for the men that have beene honoured with those titles , they are th●se that follow : taking along such Lords , and Viscounts , as have , ●eene dignified with and by the selfe-same titles , and no more but those . Saint Albans . S. Albans is the fairest and the goodliest town in the County of Hertford . It arose out of the ruines of old Verulamium , a towne more strong and ancient ●arre , ( as being the strongest Fort of all the Britaines , in the time of Caesar ) though not hai●e so beautifull . It took both name , original , & Grandour , from Alban , once a Citizen of Verulamium : who suffering Martyrdome for the faith of Christ , during the persecution of Dioc●●●ian ; had first a faire Church built in memoriall of him , in that very place : or if you will , Ecclesia mirandi operis , atque ejus martyrio condigna , in the Authors language . ( Bedae hist. lib. 1. c. 7 ) . But this Church and towne of Verulam being both destroyed , in those fierce warres , which were betweene the Saxons and the Britains , Offa the great and puissant K. of the Mercians , built not farre off from the old seate , a Monastery to the honour of Saint Alban ; endowed it with a great revenue , and many goodly priviledges , as well Ecclesiasticall as Temporall . This in short time , improved the Monastery into a towne : the Abbat in regard of his great possession● , and jurisdiction correspondent , drawing no ordinary con●●●ence of all sorts of people , Pope Adrian , borne at A●bats-Langley , about five miles off , added this honour to the place , that as Saint Alban was the first Martyr of the Engllsh nation : so should the Abbat have precedencie of all English Abbats . This house was valued at the suppression , at 2510. li. 6. s. 1. d. per annum ▪ and was surrendred into the hands of Sir Thomas Pope , Doctor Petre , and Master Cavendish , for the use of K. H. 8. Decemb. 5. Anno 1639. The Abby Church being a stately and magnificent fabrick is le●t standing still ▪ townesmen purchasing the same at the price of 400. li. and turning it into a Parish Church , as it now remaines . For the great battels fought about this towne , and in the very streets thereof , between the two contending houses of York and Lancaster ; I leave you to the common Chronicles . The persons which it hath ennobled , are these that follow . Viscounts and Earles . 1620 1 Francis Bacon , L. Verulam , and L. Chan. of England , created Visc. S. Albans , Jan. 18. 1628 2 Rich. de Burgh , E. of Clan-Ricard in the Kingd . of Irel ▪ creat . E. of S. Albans , Aug. 23 1636 3 Vlike de Burgh , E of S. Albans , and Clan-Ricard , now living . 1641. Anglesey . ANglesey is an Iland of North-Wales , situate over against Carna●vonshire , from which it is divided by a narrow straight : called in the Latines Mona , by the Britains Mon ; but being conquered by the English , obtained the name of Anglesey , as one would say , the Iland of the English-men . It is exceeding fruitfull both in corne and cattell , from whence the Welch are liberally stored with both : And therefore it is said proverbially , Mon mam Cymbri , that Anglesey is the mother of Wales . It was the ancient seate of the Druides , and brought with no small difficulty under the command of the Romans , by Iulius Agricola ▪ the people fighting here , ut pro aris & focis , for their religion and their gods . It containeth in it 74. Parishes , the principall wherof is named Beau●arish , being at this time the head towne of ●he shire : and Aberfraw , now an obscure and ●omely place , but anciently the Royall seate ●f the Kings of North-Wales . The persons which it hath given title to are onely these . Earles of Anglesey . ●624 1 Ch●●stop . Villiers , brother of Geo. D. of Buck. created F. of Angles . Sept. 24. ●630 2 Charles Villiers , now living . 1641. ARundell is the name of an ancient towne and Castle in the County of Sussex , pleasantly seated neare the river of Arun : whence it was called Arundale , or A●untina va●●●● , in some Latine Authors . The Castle of great fame and strength ; but farre more famous for the Lords and Earles therof , then the strength or beauty . A place in this farre different from the rest of England : the title of the Earle of Arundell , being annexed unto the Castle , honour , and signeurie of Arundell ; and going along with the possession of the same : as was adjudged in that great controversie , between Sir Iohn Fitz-Alan , being in possession of the Castle , against Iohn-Mowbray● . of Norfolke , being the right heire in the nearest degree . The Earles here of in regard that by ancient Charter they had had the ●ertium denarium , or the second penny of the Plees of Sussex ; and that they sometimes had their residence and abode in Chichester , as the chiefe City of that County : are in some old Charters ●alled Earles of Sussex ; and in some others , Earles of Chichester . That which was theirs most properly , hath stayed longest by them ▪ and is of late increased by the addition of th● titles and dignities of the Baronies of Fitz-Alan , Clun , Oswaldstree , and Mal●raver● with divers other lands , tenements , and here ditaments , annexed unto the title , name , an● dignity o● Earle of Arundell , by speciall Act 〈◊〉 Parliam . An. 3. Car. R. the noble personage which have borne this title , are these that fol●low . Earles of Arundell . 1067 1 Rog. Montgomery . 1091 2 Hugh de Montgomery . 1098 3 Rob. de Montgomery , devested of this honour , An. 1102.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚   4 William de Albeney . 1189 5 Will. de Albeney . 1196 6 Will. de Albeney . 1199 7 Will. de Albeney . 1224 8 Hugh de Albeney , died 1243.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1289 9 Rich. Fitz-Alan , descended of the Lady Isabell , sister of Hugh de Albeney . 1301 10 Edm. Fitz-Alan . 1326 11 Rich. Fitz-Alan . * 1375 12 Rich. Fitz-Alan , L. Tr. & L. Adm. 1397 13 Tho. Fitz-Alan , L. Tr. died 1416. * 1434 14 John Fitz-Alan , L. Mal●ravers . * 1439 15 Will. Fitz-Alan . * 1487 16 Tho. Fitz-Alan . 1524 17 Will. Fitz-Alan . * 1543 18 Henry Fitz-Alan , Ch. of Oxford . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1579 19 Philip Howard , son of Tho. D. of Norfolk , & the La. Mary Fitz-Alan . 1604 20 Tho. Howard , now E. of Arund . and Surry , and E. Marshall of Engl. Anno 1641. AVmerle , or A●bemarle , is the name of a small town and territory in the Dukedome of Normandy . It belonged heretofore to Stephen , the sonne of Odo , des●●nded from the Earles of Champagne : whom William the Conquerer made Earle of Albema●le , as being the sonne of his halfe sister by the mothers side ; and gave unto him for the further maintenance of his estate , the territory of Holder●●sse in Yorkeshire . This title hee enjoyed , and left the same to his posterity , who enjoyed it also . And when his issue failed , the Kings of England honoured others with it ; though they had long since lost their estate in Normandy : the Dukes and Earles whereof , take thus in order . Dukes and Earles of Aumerle . 1095 1 Stephen , sonne of Odo , Earle of Bloys . 1128 2 Will. le Gros.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1182 3 Will. de Magnaville , E. of Essex . Hawys daught . of Will. le Gros.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1191 4 Will. de Fortibus . 1196 5 Will. de Fortibus . 1244 6 Will. de Fortibus . 1258 7 Tho. de Fortibus .     ✚ ✚ ✚   8 Tho. of Woodstock , D. of Gloc. *     ✚ ✚ ✚   ✚ ✚ ✚ 1378 9 Edw. Plantagenet , D. L. Adm. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1412 10 Tho. D. of Clarence , E. *     ✚ ✚ ✚   11 Rich. Beauchamp , E. of Warwick , created Earle of Aumerle , by King Henry . 6. BAnbury is a towne in Oxfordshire , the second both for wealth and beauty in all that County : Most famous in our common Chronicles , for the great battell there-by fought betweene the two great houses of Lancaster and Yorke : in which the victory fell to the Eare of Warwick , then chie●e of the Lancastrian party , who forthwith tooke King Edward prisoner ( of that name the fourth ) now forlorne and hopelesse . It was not long since much wasted by a devouring fire , but very well repaired and beautified ; and still is as it hath beene anciently , cas●o conficiendo notissimum , as Camden notes it , a towne much famed for the best and most delicate sort of Cheeses . It never had but one Earle , and he 1626 1 William , L. Knollys , Visc. Wallingford , created E of Banbury , Aug. 18. and died , Anno 1631. BAthe , is the fairest , and the principall City in all Somersetshire , seated in a very low Plaine , and round about environed with hils very high and steepe : from whence come many rivulets and fresh-water springs , to the great commodity of the people . But that which brings most wealth unto the place , are not the waters from without , but those waters which are within ; sending up from them much thinne vapours , and a strong sent withall ; which springs are very medicinable unto many maladies . Three of these springs there are in all , the waters of the which being received in large and fitting receptacles for the publick use ; they call the Kings Bath , the crosse Bath , and the hot Bath . From bathing in these waters , it was called the Bath ; and thence Batho●ia in the Latine : unlesse perhaps you rather thinke that bathing tooke its hint from hence ; and that this place tooke name from Badon , or mons Bado●icus , not far off , as certainely Caer Badon , the old Britain● called it . The Greeks and Latines gave it names according to the nature and condition of the waters , or the Baths there being : it being called by Ptolomee , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , hot waters ; by An●oninus , ●quae solis the waters of the Sunne , on ●he selfe same reason . Of the ●aire Church here we have spoke already in our description of the Bishoprick : which being ruined amongst other Monasteries in the time of K. H. 8. hath of late times beene , as it were reedified , but certainely repaired , and beautified , and made 〈◊〉 for use , by the great costs of Bishop Montague , a late Bishop there . Earle it had none untill the time of H. 7. since it hath had divers ; whose names and times we now present you . Earles of Bathe . 1486 1 Philibert de Chandew .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1536 2 John Bourchier , Lord Fitz-Wa●in , created E. of Bathe , by H. 8. July . 10. 1539 3 John Bourchier . 1561 4 William Bourchier .   5 Edward Bourchier . 1638 6 Henry Bourchier , now E. of Bathe , Anno 1641. BEdford is one of those three Counties which anciently were possessed by the Cattieuc●lani ▪ the Countrey indifferently well provided of all necessaries , both for foode and fewell . It taketh denomination from the chiefe town thereof , called Bedford , or in the old Saxon , Bedanford , i.e. Beds , or Innes at the Ford. A towne conveniently seated on both sides of a river which runneth through it ; well built , and populous , as having in it no lesse then five Churches . But the chiefe commendations which it hath , is for the antiquity and strength thereof ; as being a towne of no small note and consequence , Anno 572. when as Cuthwulf the Saxon vanquished the Britain● in the open feild , and became Master of the Countrey . The Castle here being counted very strong , and almost impregnable , brought no small mischeife to the place , being a peece much aimed at by all those in the former times , which either pretended to the Crown , or bate armes against it . But all the fortifications being demolished in the reigne of K. H. 3. the people have since lived in quiet : and the chiefe reputation of it now consisteth in this , that it hath given the title of Dukes and Earles to these persons following , being in their severall ages Dukes and Earles of Bedford . 1365 1 Ingelram de Cow●y , E. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1414 2 John , son of Henry 4. L. Adm. Const. and Regent of Fr. D. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1470 3 George Nevill , D     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1485 4 Jasp. de Hatfeild , E. of Pembroke , halfe brother to King H. 6. D. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1549 5 John L. Russell , L. Pr. and L. Adm. created E of Bedford by Edw. 6. * 1554 6 Francis Russell . 1585 7 Edward Russell . 1628 8 Francis Russell , now Earle , 1641. BErkley is the name of a noble and an ancient family , dispersed in many places of this Kingdome . They tooke this name from Berkley Cas●●● ▪ situate neare the Severne bankes in the County o● Gloucester , of which they were made Barons by King H. 2. Whereas before that time they were called Fitz-Harding ; as being descended from one Robert Fitz-Harding of the bloud 〈◊〉 of the Danes . Which Robert Fitz-Harding by the name of Robertus f●●ius Ha●dingi 〈◊〉 Reg●● Dacae , is joyned as a Co-founder with 〈◊〉 H 2 of the Cathedrall Church of Bristoll , ( but then a Monastery onely ) as doth appeare by an inscription over the gate of the said Church . William L. Berkley of this house , being descended from the Mowbraies , who amongst other titles were Earles of Nottingham , was in the yeere 1482. created Visc. Berkley by King Richard 3. afterwards Earle of Nottingham , and Earle Marshall by King H. 7. and finally , created Marqu . Berkley by the same King H. A●no 1509. But dying without issue all those titles ended with him : that of the Lord Berkley still continuing in the line collaterall . Visc. and Marqu . Berkley . 1509 1 Will. L. Berkley , created Viscount Berkley , by King R. 3. was created Marqu . Berkley by K. H. 7. mort sans issue . BErkshire was anciently in the Saxon times called Berro●schire : which name the learned Antiquary Master Camden out of Asserius Menevensis deriveth from Berroc , a certaine Forrest , where grew good store of Box , to which the people used in the time of danger to retire themselves . I lieth conveniently all along the bankes of the river of Thames , which serves them well for the conveyance of their corne , fewell , and other commodities to the City of London : and containeth in it 140. Parishes , of the which 12. are Market townes ; the chiefe , Reading , and Abington . But that which gives most lustre to it , is the royall Palace and Castle of Windsore , the principall seate and residence of the most honourable order of the Garter : and indeed the most magnificent mansion of the Kings of England . Camden in his description of this County doth conclude it thus . Thus much of Barksh ▪ which ( as yet ) hath given the title of Earle to no man. And true it was when he so said it . But since it hath bestowed that title on these : Earles of Berks. 1620 1 Francis L. Morrys , crea . E of Berkshire , Jan. 28. mort sans issue masle .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1625 2. Tho. Howard , Visc. Andover , created E. of Berksh . Feb. 7. now living . Anno 1641. BRIDGEWATER . BRidgewater , but more properly and in the old records Burgh-Walter , that is , Walters Burgh , so called of Walter de Duaco , who came in with the Normans , & had faire lands given him in these parts by the Conquerour ; is a town of Somerset-shire . A great and populous town it is , descending by the Chaworths to the Dutchy of Lancaster : and was by Hen. 8. the heire of the Lancastrian family , adorned with the tlitle of Earledome ; which hee bestowed on Sir Henry D●wbeney , son of that Giles Dawbeney , who came in with King Hen. 7. from Britaine in France ; and was by him made his L. Chamberlaine , and Knight of the Garter . Which Henry dying without issue , this title lying long a sleep , was afterward awakened in another family , ordeined to be a seminary for the Earles of Bridgewater . A. Ch.     1538 1 H●nry L. D●wbeney created Earle of Bridgewater . 30. H. 8.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1617 2 Iohn Egerton Visc. Brackly , created ● . of Bridgewater , May 15 L. President of Wal●s now living , Anno 1641. BRISTOL . BRistol the third in ranke of the Cities of England , is situate on the rivers of F●ome and Avon , not far off from the entrance of the Severne into the Oc●an . In that regard it stands commodiously for trade and trafick , the ships with full sayle comming up into the bosome of the City ; and verily the Cityzens there are wealthy Merchants , and trade into the most part of the world with good faith and fortune . Part of it stands in Somersetsh . and part in Gloc●ster shire , though they account themselves of neither : being a County in it selfe incorporate , and independent upon any other than its own Officers . A town exceeding populous , and exceeding cleanly : there being sinks and sewers made under ground , for the conveyance of all filth and nastinesse , which by them passeth into the rivers . The Castle of it once was a place of strength , and in it K. Stephen was kept a prisoner by Maud the Empresse : but now not able to defend it selfe from the ruines of time . Churches it hath in it , and thereto adjoyning , to the number of 18 , or thereabouts , whereof the fairest and most memorable , next to the Cathedrall ( of which we have already spoken in our description of the Bishoprick , is S. Ma●ies of Radcliffe , without the wals , esteemed to be the fairest Parish Church in England , yet however it hath long been a town of Fame ; it is not full an hundred yeares , since it was made a Bishops see : But lesse since it became a title of nobility ; viz. not till King Iames conferred the honour of Earle of Bristol , on 1622 Iohn L. Digby of Sherborne , cr . E. of Bristol , Sept. 15. Iac 20. now living 1641. BVCKINGHAM . BVckingham is another of the three Counties , which were once the seate of the Cat●ieuchlani : and is supposed to take that name from Bucken , that is , Beech-trees , with which the Countrey is well stored . It is generally a very rich and plentifull soyle , equally good for corne , and grazing , and lieth al along on the banke of the Thames , confronting Bark-shire . It conteines in it , 185 Parishes , eleven of the which are market townes ; and amongst them the chiefe in name is Buckingham , the head town of the County . A town of no great note , when it was at the best ; but more considerable heretofore , than at the present ; being once fortified with a Castle , now hardly to bee found in the very ruines , as also with a rampire and certaine sconces , built for defence thereof against the Danes , now more invisible than the Castle . The greatest honour it can chalenge , is that it hath given titles of the highest honour , to many a brave and worthy personage , as well of the bloud Royall as of other families : who by the Kings of England have been hence denominated . Dukes , Marq. and Earles of Buckingham .   1 Walter Giffard , E.   2 Walter Giffard .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1164 3 Richard Strongbow Earle of Pembroke .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1377 4 Thom. of Woodstock , D. of Glouc. L Constab●e . * 1397 5 Humfrey Plantagene● ; died 1400.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1444 6 Humfrey Stafford , D.L. Constable , descended from a daughter of Thom of Woodstock . * 1460 7 Henry Stafford D.L. Consta. * 1468 8 Edw. Stafford D.L. Consta. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1616 9 George visc . Villiers , or Earle of Buck. 14 Iac. Ian. 5. Marq. Buck. Iac. 17. Ian. 10. and finally D. of Buck. 21. Iac. May , 1623. Lord Admirall and Ch. Camb. * 162● 10 Geo. Villiers , now Duke , 1641. BVLLINGBROKE . BVlling broke is an antient town in Lincolnshire , heretofore belonging to the Lacies E. of Lincolne : and by the marriage with Alice daughter and heire of Hen. Lacy E. of Lincolne , to Thomas E. of Lancaster ; this with the residue of the lands of Lincolne , became united and incorporated with those of Lancaster . The greatest fame thereof ; was for a Castle built there by William of Romara , E. of Lincoln : but much more famous in succeeding times , in that it was the birth place of K. H. 4. surnamed ( according to the fashion of that age ) of Bullingbroke . ) It hath beene almost eversince his time , one of the honours ( as we call it ) of the crown of England : but never made an honorarie title unto any family , untill K Iames conferred it on Sr. Oliver S. Iohns who possibly might affect to bee thence denominated , as fetching his descent from the Lad●e Margaret Beauchamp , grand-mother to King Henry the 7. the heire of the Lancastrian Family . Earle of Bullingbroke . 1624 1 Oliver L. S. Iohn of Bletho , created E. of Bullingbroke , Iac. 22. Dec. 28. Nowliving , 1641. CAMBRIDGE . CAmbridge-shire was once part of the pos●essions of the old Iceni , and takes that name from Cambridge the chiefe town thereof ; and that derived either from the old town called Camb●ritum , which Antoninus mentions in this tract , or else , as other have conceived , from a bridge built on the river cam , on whose banks it ●tandeth . A town that hath beene long since dedicated unto learning : here being a publique Schoole erected An. 630 or thereabouts , by Sebert King of the East Angles , and that ad morem Cantuariorum , as it is in Beda . But Schooles and studies being overthrown by the Danish fury , it lay long forlorne and discontinued , till it beganne to flourish under the calmer times of the Normans government , that is to say , about the middle of the reign of K. H. the first , the 3 K ▪ of the Norman Kings . Nor was it long before , that of a famous Schoole , or Schola illustris , as we phrase it now , it did become as famous an Vniversity : Robert de Remington affirming , that in the reigne of Edward the 1 it was made an Vniversity such as Oxford is , by the Court of Rome . There are now 16 Colleges and Hals endowed , replenished with such store of students , that unlesse it be in her sister Oxford , the like are not found in all Europe . But we must leave this speculation of it as an Academy ; and look upon it next as a title of honour : in which consideration we shall find it no lesse fortunate , than we did before , in these Earles of Cambridge .   1 William de Meschines , son to Randolph E of Chester .     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1342 2 Iohn de ✚ Hainal● uncle to Qu. Philip , wife of Edw. 3.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1349 3 William Marq ▪ of Iuliers .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1362 4 Edm. of Langley D. of York . * 1401 5 Edw. Plantagenet D. of York . * 1414 6 Rich. de Conisburgh , 2 son of Edm. of Langley .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1619 7 Iames marq. Hamilton cr . Earle of Cambridge , 17. Iac. Iun. 15. Lord Steward . * 1625 8 Iames Marq. Hamilton , Master of the horse , and now E. of Cambridge , 1641 * CARLILE . CArlile is the principall City in the County of Cumb●rland , situate in the furthest part of the Kingdome toward Scotland , on the Westerne marches : fortified with a Citadel and sundry Bulwarks for a defence against the Scots , as standing in a place of most advantage for the securing of that border . It flourishedheretofore in the time of the Romans , and was by them called Lugu-vallum , as standing on the Trench , or Vallum Picticum , the Picts wall , as our stories call it ; made by the Romans to defend their Province from the Picts and Scots . So that it seemes of old to have been the boundary betweene the nations : though the Northumbers after , in the Saxon times , enlarged their Empire to the banks of Dunb●itton Fryth . From whence , or when it fi●st was called Carl●le , our Authors say not ; but by that name , and in the Latin by Ca●l●olum , it h●th long been known . The Danes consumed it into ashes , and it lay unrepaired in rubbish , til the time of Willi●m Rufus , who rebuilt it . Since which by the accession of the Episcopall See , erected there by H. the first , who succeeded Rufus ; it came to be of wealth and cre●it : and hath given the title of an Earldome to two severall Families , wh●ch being of a different quality , have in as different times beene Earles of Carlile . Earles of Carlile . 1321 1 Andrew de Harcla .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1622 2 Iames Hay , Visc. Doncaster , created E. of Carlile , 18. Iac. Sept. 17 ▪ 1636 3 Iames Hay now E. of Carl●le , 1641. CARNARVON . CArnarvon is a shire of North-wales , butting upon the Irish seas , and pa●ted f●om the Isle of Anglesey by a streit , or Fretum . A mountainous and rocky Countrey : but the defects thereof are plentifully supplyed by the Isle adjoyning . It tooke name from Carnarvon , the chiefe town there of : heretofore very strongly wailed , and for●ified with a faire Castle . Edward the 2. K. of England was here borne ; and hence according to the custome of those times , entituled Edward of CARNARVON . For the occasion of it I refer you to the common Chronicles . The Princes of Wales had in this place their Chancery and Exchequet for all North-Wales : which was no small improvement to it . Earle it had never any till the present Age , in which our Soveraigne Lord now reigning conferred that title on 1628 1 Rob. L. Dormer of Wing ▪ created E. of Carnarvon 4. Car. Aug. 2. now living , Anno 164● . CHESTER . CHester is the principall City of Cheshire , antiently part of the Cornavii . The Country not so plentifull in corne , as in fish and cattell ; but fruitfull in no one thing more than the production of ancient Gentry ; of which it can still shew more antient Families than any one County in the Kingdome . The City built in form of a quadrant , fouresquare , is enclosed with a wall that taketh up more than 2 miles in compasse , and hath 11 Parishes ; the houses being very faire , and well built , and having all along in the chief streets before the doors , a kind of galleri● ; through which a man may walk dry from one end to the other . Seated it is upon the river of Dee , on which , to shew his splendor and magnificen●e , K. Edgar was once rowed by 7 petie ●ings of the Scots and Britans , to the great joy of the beholders . The Earles hereof were anciently accounted Palatines . William the Conquerour giving this Earldome to Hugh Lupus , a noble Norman ; to be holden as fre●ly by his sword , as the King himselfe held England by his own . And though it be now , and hath long beene incorporated into the Patrimony regall ; yet it still holds the rights and privileges of a County Palatine : and hath for the administration thereof , a Chamberlaine , a Iustice for the Common● plees of the Crown , two Barons of the Exchequer , a Sheriffe , an Eschetour and other Officers ; to the great case of all the countryin expedition of their businesse . The Palatines hereof , before it came into the Crown , are these here following , Earles of CHESTER . 1067 1 Hugh sirnamed Lupus . 1103 2 Richard son of Hugh .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1120 3 Randolph de Meschines . 1129 4 Randolph de Gernoniis . 1153 5 Hugh Kivilioc , son of Randolph . 1181 6 Randol . Blondeville son of Hugh .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1233 7 Iohn le Scot , sonne to the Lady Maud eldest sister of Randolph .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1245 8 Edw. eldest son of K ▪ H. 3.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1255 9 Simon de Montford , Earle of Leicester , after whose death Chesler was laid unto the Crowne ; and hath beene since united to the Principality of Wales : so that who list to see the residue of the Earles of Chester , shall find them in the former Catalogue of the Princes of Wales , which have beene of the Royall bloud of England . CHESTERFEILD . CHesterfield is a town of Darbysh . commonly called Chester●eild in Scardale . A towne , which by the ruines of it doth seem to be of good antiquity ; and therefore likely to have had some more ancient name , which seemes to be now buried in those ruines ; or by continuance of time , quite worne out and lost . It glorieth much of being made a free Burrough , in the time of K. Iohn ; and for the battaile fought hard by between K. Henry the 3 , and his rebellious Barons , in which Rob. de Ferrers , Earle of Darby , being taken prisoner , lost his Estate and Dignity , though not his life . But that in which it hath most cause to glory , is that from an ordinary Market Town , it is become the seate of an Earldome , the stile and title of Earle of Chesterfeild , being conferred by our dread Soveraigne now being , upon 1628 1. Philip Lord Stanhop of Shelford , or Earle of Chesterfeild . 4 Car. Aug. 4 and is now living , Anno 1640. CLARE & CLARENCE . CLare is an ancient Town on the edge of Suffolk , where it joyneth to Essex , seated not far off from the banks of the river Stoure by which the Counties are divided . A Town that hath not any thing whereof to boast ( the Castle and the Collegiall Church being both in rubbish ) but that it gave both name and title unto that noble Family , si●named De Clare ; who in their times were Earles of Hartford , Clare and Gloucester . But the male issue of these Clares being failed , Lio●el the 3 sonne of K. Edw. the 3. ( having married the sole daughter and heire of William de Burgh , E. of Vlster in Ireland , begotten on the body of Elizabeth , one of the sisters and coheires of Gilbert de Clare , who died Anno 1291 , the last E. of Clare and Glocester of that name ) was made Duke of Clarence ; the termination of the title , being only changed , not the place denominating . And from the change thus made ( which I note only by the way ) the second king of Armes is surnamed Clarentieux ; as apperteining formerly to the Dukes of Clarence : whom with the Earles preceding and succeeding , take in order thus ; Dukes and Earles of Clarence . 1139 1 Gilbert E. of Clare . 1152 2 Roger de Clare . 1174 3 Richard de Clare , after whose death , this title lay long drowned in that of Gloucester .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1362 4 Lionel , D. of Clarence , 2 son to K. Edw. the 3.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1411 5 Tho. D. of Clarence , 2 son to K. H. the 4. L. Admirall .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1461 6 Geo. D. of Clarence , brother to K. Edw. the 4 ▪ L Constable .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1624 7 Iohn Hollys Lord Houghton , cr . E. of Clare , Com. Suffolk , 22. Iac. Nov. 2. 1638 8 Iohn Hollys now Earle of Clare , 1641. CLEVELAND . CLeveland , is a wapon-take or hundred in the northriding of York-shire , taking that name as Camden tels us , of the steepe banks which we call Clyffes , which run all along the side thereof , and at the foot of which the Countrey spreadeth into a plaine ful of fertile fields . It seemeth to be a place of a faire extent , as being one of those 3 Arch-deaconries into which the whole County is divided ; and doth give the title of an Earle , to 1625 1 Thomas L. Wentworth created E. of Cleveland , 1 Car. Feb. 7. who doth still enjoy it , An. 1641. CORNWALL . COrnwall is the most western part of England , and takes denomination from the shape and fashion of it , being like an horne ; which the old Britans called Kern , as now the Welch call the countrey Kernaw . The people of it are a remainder generally of the antient Britans ; whose language , for much of it , they do still retaine : although by intermixture of the Saxons , not easie to be understood by the Welch themselves . The Countrey very mountainous , as Wales is also ; and therefore of the lesse accesse to the Conquering Saxons : but the sea-costs well beautified with goodly townes , able to set to Sea , a good Fleet of shippes . And for the mountaines , they doe recompence their defects without , by their abundant wealth within ; as being very full of mines of tinne , which yeelds great profit to the Countrey , and furnisheth ▪ most parts of Christendome with that commodity . The Earles of Cornwall heretofore gave great immunities and liberties to those that laboured in these mines ; and when this Earldome fell again unto the Crown , Edw. the 3 erected a L. Warden of the Stannaries , to have the government thereof . And at that time of its reverting to the Crown , the L. K. Edw. gave it to his son , surnamed the black Prince ; since the which time , the eldest sons of the Kings of England , whether it be by birth , or by the death of their Elder brothers , are ipso facto Dukes of Cornwall , without any creation , and are at age to sue their livery , how young soever . Whom with their predecessors we shall marshall thus , Dukes , and Earles of Cornwall .   1 Robert of Morton , E of Cornwal . 1087 2 Wil. de Morton .     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1140 3 Reginald Fitz-Harry , base son unto K. Hen. the first .     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚   4 Iohn second son of K. H. the 2. 1227 5 Rich. Plantagenet , 2 son of K. Iohn K. of the Romans . 1272 6 Edw. Plantagenet , son of Rich.     ✚ ✚ ✚   7 Piers Gaveston .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1336 8 Iohn of Eltham , 2 son of Edw. 2. 1336 9 Edw. the black Prince . 1357 10 Rich of Burdea●x eldest son of the black Prince . * 1399 11 Hen. of Monmouth , eldest son of H. the 4. * 1422 12 H of Windsore , eld . son of H. 5. * 1453 13 Edwof West . eld . son of H. 6. * 1470 14 Edwof West . eld . son of ●dw . 4. * 1483 15 Edw. of West eld . son of Rich. 3. * 1487 16 Arthur eld . son of K. H. 7. * 1503 17 Hen. 2 son of K. H. 7. * 1537 18 Edw. eld ▪ son of K H 8. * 1602 19 Hen eld son of K Iomes . * 1612 20 Char 2 son of K ▪ Iames. * 1630 21 Charles eld . son of our dread Sover●●●n● now being , An. 1641. * COVENTRY . COventry is a faire and goodly City , within the limits of Warw●ck shire , but now within the County of Warwi●k ; heretofore called so from the Convent , by which and the translating of the See Epi●copal● from Lichf●ild hither , it grew exceeding rich and wealthy . And though it now hath neither Convent , nor Episcopall See ( more than in ruine and in title ) it still continues its old wealth ; being the best City of mart and trade in all these parts ; commodiously built and seated , and more than ordinarily frequented for an Inland Towne . It belonged once unto the ●arles of Chester , and afterward by many meane conveyances to Iohn of Eltham Earle of Cornwall ; and so this place became annexed unto that Earldome . Nor lost it any thing , but rather gained much by that annexation : Henry the 6. laying unto it certaine the adjacent Villages : and making it with them a County corporate , cleerely distinct from that of Warwick . It is now one of the honourary titles of the Duke of Buckingham , George Marquesse of Buckingham , being created Duke of Bukingham , and Earle of Coven●y , by letters patents bearing date in May , 21 Iac. and for the remnant of his life he , and since him , his son enjoyed both the title of Dukes of Buckingham , and Earles of Coventry . 1623 1 Georges Villiers , Marquesse of Buckingham . 1628 2 George Villiers , now Duke of Buckingham , and Earle of Coventry , 1641. CVMBERLAND . CVmberland is the furthest Country of England , on the Northwest side , antiently part of the Brigantes . It is called Cumbria in the Latine , and Cumbrorum ●erra ▪ as being inhabited by the true and naturall Britans , ( who in their own language are cald Kymri ) when as the residue of these Northern parts had yeelded to the conquering Saxon. A Countrey , for the situation of it , neither unpleasant nor unprofitable ; the Valleis yeelding corne sufficiently , the Mountaines breeding great flocks of sheep , the Meeres replenished with all kind of wild foule , and the adjoyning Sea affording a variety of excellent fish . It conteineth in it not above 58 Parish Churches , but very many Chappels of Ease , as big and large as any Parish . Of these there are 9 Market Townes , whereof the chiefe ( next Carlile ) for dispatch of busines , is that of Perith , wherein they hold their Sessions and Assises . Late was it ere this County became an Earldome : viz. when as K. H. the 8. bestowed the stile and dignity of Earle of Cumberland , upon Henry Lord Clyfford , whose issue still continue Earles of Cumberland . 1525 1 Henry L Clifford created Earle of Cumber . 17 of K. H. 8. Iun. 18. * 1542 2 Henry Clifford . 1569 3 George Clifford . 1605 4 Francis Clifford . 1640 5 Henry Clifford , Now Earle of Cumberland , 1641. DANBY . DAnby is an ancient Castle in the hundred or Wapontake of Cleveland , in the North-riding of York-shire , seated neare to a large Parke , and a goodly chase of the same name . It belonged anciently unto the L. Latimer , and was sold with other lands belonging to that Family unto Ralph Nevill Earle of Westmerland , who forth with gave the same to his son Sir George Nevil , whom K. H. the 6. not long after summoned to the Parliament by the name of Lord Latimer . His issue male failing in Qu Elizabeths times , and the Estate being divided betweene his two daughters and coheires , this Castle with the lands adjoyning fell unto the share of his daughter Mary , who being married to Sir Iohn Danvers of Wil●sh . was by him mother of S Hen. Danvers , created by K. Iames L. Danvers of Dan●eser , and by our Sovereigne now being the first E of Danby . 1629 1 Henry L. Danvers of Dantesey , cr . E. of Danby , Feb. 7. 10 Car. now living , Anno 1641. DARBY . DArbyshire is a part of the Coritani , and tooke that name of Darby , the chief town thereof . A Town conveniently seated on the River of Derwent , beautified with five Parish Churches , a goodly stone Bridg , and a large Market-place : and no lesse famous for Good Ale , than Banbury for Cakes and Che●se . Finally , the Town is well traded , and of good resort ; and is the usuall place of holding Sessions and Assisses for all the County . The Countrey of the East and South parts well manured and fruitfull ; yeelding a very spacious and pleasing prospect , both out of Tutbury Castle , and that of Boulsover . The West part ▪ which they call the Peak , is not so pleasing to the eye , though possible as profitable to the purse ; being rich in iron , lead , and coales , which it yeelds abundantly ; and grazing multitudes of sheep on the Mountaine tops . It containes in it 106 Parish Churches , of the which 8 be Market●towns ; the chiefe thereof being Darby , as before is said : the Catalogue of whose Earls now followeth . Earles of Darby . 1199 1 William de Ferrars . 1247 2 Wil. de Ferrars . 1254 3 Wil. de Ferrars . 4 Robert de Ferrars .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1131 5 Edm ▪ of Lancaster , 2 sonne to King Henry the 3. after which time , this title was continued in the house of Lancaster . 1338 6 Henry of Lancaster son of Henry Earle of Lancaster , cr . Earle of Darby in his fathers life , 11. Edw. 3. * 1386 7 Henry of Bullingbroke sonne of Iohn of Gaunt , Duke of Lancaster , cr . Earle of Darby in his fathers life , 9 Ric. 2. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1485 8 Thomas Lord Stanley , cr . Earle of Darby by King Henry the 7. L. Constable . * 1503 9 Tho. Stanley . 1521 10 Edward Stanley . * 1572 11 Henry Stanley . * 1593 12 Ferdin . Stanley . 1594 13 William Stanl●● , Earle of Darby , 1641. * DENBIGH . Denbigh-shire is one of the shires of Northwales , heretofore appertaining to the Ordevices . The Countrey very mounteinous , and as barren generally ; though by the paines and industry of the husband-man , it be made in some parts very fruitfull . The chiefe towne Denbigh is well seated on the banks of the river Istrad , which from thence runneth into the Cluyd , the fairest river of this countrey . A town well peopled and inhabited , especially since it became the head of the county ; which was not till the 27 of Hen. the 8. what time the five new shires were added to the rest in Wales , of which this was one . But before that it was the head town of the Barony of Denbigh , being conceived to be one of the goodliest territories in all England , as having more Gentlemen holding thereof in fee , and by service , than any other . Lords it hath had good store , and of severall Families ; but none of them a Parliamentary Peere ( in reference hereunto ) till these later times . Of late it hath given title both of Lord and Earle to two severall Families ; viz. to these Lords and Earles of Denbigh . 1564 1 Rob. Dudley , created B. of Denbigh , & E. of Leicester , Eliz. 6. Sept. 29.   ✚ ✚ ✚ 1622 2 William Visc. Feilding , created Earle of Denbigh , 20. Iac. Sept. 14 Master of the Wardrobe , and now living , 1641. DEVONSHIRE . DEvonshire is the most Western Countrey of all England , excepting Cornwall , together with the which it made up the possession of the old Danmon i. It is called Devi●an by the Cornish Britans , that is , the country of Low-valleies , because the people dwel for the most part beneath in vales . From thence the Saxons had their Devenshire ; and the Latin●s borrow their Devonia A countrey harborous on either side with commodious Havens , enriched with inexhaustable mines of tinne , beautified with fresh and pleasant meadows , shaded again in other parts with greater store of woods , and very well replenished with Towns and Villages ; whereof it reckoneth in the whole 394 Parishes , and therein 37 Market townes of good note and trade . The countrey of it selfe not so fit for corne , but that the toyle and travaile of the plou●●●an supplies that defect , and addes unto it both by cost and industry what it wants by Nature . Earles it hath had of severall Families ; of which the Rivers and the Courtneys held the title long : as now the Cavendishes may doe , who have possession of it in the third generation . But how long any of them held it , and who they were that interloped , wee shall best see , by looking over the particular Names and Families of the Earles of Devonshire .   1 Ric. de Rivers or Riparis . 1106 2 Baldwin de Rivers . 1154 3 Ric. de Rivers . 1161 4 Baldw. de Rivers .   5 Rich. de Rivers .   6 Wil. de Rivers . 1216 7 Baldw. de Rivers . 1245 8 Baldw. de Rivers .     ✚ ✚ ✚   9 Wil. de Fortibus , husband of Isabel , sister of the last Baldw.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1335 10 Hugh Courtney , next heire of Isabel de Fortibus . 1340 11 Hugh Courtney . 1378 12 Edw. Courtney . 1418 13 Hugh Courtney . 1421 14 Tho. Courtney . 1461 15 Hen. Courtney .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1469 16 Humfrey L. Stafford of Southwick , made E. of Devon. by K. Edw. the 4.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1469 17 Iohn Courtney , slaine at Tewksbury . 1487 18 Edw. Courtney . * 1509 19 Wil. Courtney . 1525 20 Henry Courtney , Marquesse of Exeter . * 1553 21 Edw. Courtney , died 1556.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1603 22 Charles Blount Lord Montjoy , created E. of Devon , by K. Iames.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1618 23 Wil. Lord Cavendish of Hardwick created E , of Devonshire , 10 Iac. Aug. 20. 24 Wil. Cavendish .   25 Wil. Cavendish , now E. of Devonshire , 1641. DORSET . THe County of Dorset , abbutteth upon that of Devonshire , having the Sea up on the South , and Somersetshire upon the North. It was inhabited hertofore by the Durotriges , and was all the land they did inhabit . The aire good , and of an healthfull constitution ; the soyle fat and rich in many places , and where in that it is defective ; it yelds good store of woods and pasture . The Country generally very pleasant in her situation , as being no lesse beholding to the inner land Rivers , than the bordering Ocean ; the one yeelding merchandise from far , the other the commodity of conveyance to most parts thereof ; and both of them good store of fish . It conteines in it 248 Parishes , and in them 18 Market-Townes , the chiefe of which in name is Dorcester , as that which doth denominate the whole Country , and tooke that name it selfe from the Durotriges , whom before I spake of ; unlesse you rather think that it comes from Dur●ium , which Ptolomy placeth in this tract . A Towne not famous for much els , than that it hath long been , and doth still continue the honorary title of these Noble personages , which have beene severally Marquesses and Earles of Dorset .   1 Osmund de Sees , E.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1397 2 Iohn Beaufort , Marquesse , Lord Admirall . *   3 Thomas Beaufort , Earle Duke of Exeter , Lord Chancellor and L. Adm. * 1444 4 Edmund Beaufort Earle and Marquesse . * 1454 5 Hen. Beaufort , Marq. 1462 6 Edm. Beaufort , Marq.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1474 7 Tho. Grey , Marq. * 1494 8 Tho. Grey , Marq. * 1530 9 Hen. Grey , Marq. D. of Suff. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1603 10 Tho. S●ckvill L. Buckhurst , created E. of Dorset . 10. Iac. March 13 L. Tres. and Chanc. of Oxf. * 1608 11 Rob. Sackvill 1609 12 Rich. Sackvill . 1625 13 Edw. Sackvill , now E. and Lord Chamberlain unto the Queen 1641. DOVER . DOver , is a well knowne and famous Town , both for the Haven and the Castle , for the security and renown of which and the convenient si●uation of it over against France ; it hath long beene accounted one of the Cinque Ports . Seated it is in the very South-East point of Kent , from whence a man may easily discerne the coast of F●ance as being but 34 miles distant . The ●own stands in the bottom between the clyffes , very warme and safe ; the Castle mounted up aloft , both to comand and to defend it A place indeed of such impregnable strength , and so great importance , that Philip King of France , when L●wys his son being called in hither by the factious Barons against their Soveraigne L. King Iohn , had gotten many Townes and Forts , but yet could not get the mastery of this peece , despised all , saying , verily my son hath not one foot of land in England , if he be not master of Dover Castle . It now gives title of an Earle to 1627 3 Henry Cary , Visc. Rochfort , created E of Dover 3 Car. Mart. 8 , and is now living , 1641. ESSEX . ESsex was anciently perteining to the East - Saxons , and made a chiefe part of their Kingdome ; hence it took the name . Before it did belong to the Tr●nobantes . A Countrey large in compasse , fruitfull of corne and other sorts of graine , plentifull in saffron wel wooded and wel watred also ; & that not only by the Sea , and the River of Thams , which washeth all one side thereof , but with faire , and fresh , and fishful Rivers , which do afford no smal commodity unto it . The greatest want it hath is of sweet fresh aire ; those parts thereof which lye along upon the Thames , ( which they call the hundreds ) being very aguish and unhealthy . This County conteineth in it 415 Parish Churches , whereof 21 are Market Townes , of which Colchester is farre the richest , fairest and best traded . Yet in regard it standeth in the extremity of all the Countrey , the Sessions and Assisses are held most commonly at Chelmesford , which is almost in the middle of it . But it is time to leave the Countrey , and come unto The Earles of Essex .   1 Geofrey de Mandeville .   2 Geofrey de Mand. 1166 3 Wil. de Mand. 1199 4 Geof . Fitz-Piers , L. Ch. Iustice. 1213 5 Geof . de Mand. 1216 6 Wil. de Mand.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1228 7 Humfrey de Bohun , E of Hereford who married Maud , sister and heire of Wil. de Mand. 1234 8 Humf. de Bohun , L. Con.   9 Humf. de Bohun , L.C. 1298 10 Humf. de Bohun , L.C. 1322 11 Iohn de Bohun , L.C. 1336 12 Humf. de Bohun . 1361 13 Humf. de Boh. L.C. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1461 14 H Visc. Bourchier , L. Ch. & L. T. * 1483 15 Hen. Visc. Bourchier , *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1539 16 Tho. L. Cromwell . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1543 17 W.L. Parre , Marq. of Northamp . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1572 18 Walt. d'Evreux , L Ferrars , descended by the Bourchiers from the Bohuns . * 1576 19 Rob. d'Evreux , master of the horse B. Marsh ▪ and Ch. of Cam. * 1604 20 Rob. d'Evreux , now E. of Essex , 1641. EXETER . EXeter is now the chiefe City of Devonshire as heretofore of the Danmonii , by Ptolomy called Isca , and so by Antonine , but that the Copies are mistaken , in which , instead of Isca Danmoniorum , we read Isca Dunmoriorum . A faire and goodly Town it is , seated upon the Easterne banke of the river Ex , from whence it had the name of Excester . In circuit it conteines within the wals about a mile and a halfe , besides the suburbs which every way stretch out to a great length ; and in that circuit there are numbred 15 Parish Churches , besides the Cathedrall . The whole enviro●ed with deep ditches , and very strong wals having many towrs therin very well disposed , and yet the animosity of the inhabitants is a greater strength unto it , than the wals or ditch●s ; whereof they have given notable proofe , in these later times . But for that I refer you to the common Chronicles ; and now present you with the Dukes , Marq. and Earles of Exeter . 1389 1 Iohn Holland , E of Huntingdon , made D. of Exeter by K. Rich. 2. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1416 2 Tho. Beaufort , E of Dorser , L Ch. And Adm. made D. of Exeter by K. H. the 5.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1444 3 Iohn Holland , D.L. Adm. * 1474 4 Hen. holland , D.L. Adm.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1525 5 Hen. Courtney , E. of Devonsh . cr . Marq. of Exeter by K. H ▪ the 8. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1605 6 Tho Cecill L. Burleigh , cr . E. of Exeter , 3 Iac. May 4. * 1623 7 Wil Cecill , 1639. * 1640 8 David Cecill , now E. of Exeter ▪ 1641. FLINT . F●intshire , is one of the old shires of Northwales , and though augmented somewhat by K. H. the 8. what time the March-ground was appropriated unto severall shires ( for which see 37. H. c. 26. ) Yet it is still the lest of all , as not containing above 2● Parishes , and of them only one market town . The Countrey not so mounteinous as the rest of Wales ; exceedingly well furnished both with corne for men , and grasse for cattell ; of which it hath good store for number , though for bulke but litle . It tooke denomination from the Castle of Flint , begun by H. 2 , but finished by K. Edw 1 , for a goodfence against the Welch . This Country hath been always held to bee an appendant on that of Chester , and doth ad gladium Cestriae pertinere , as the old books ●ay : but both united now unto the principality of Wales . Edward of Windsore eldest son of K. Edw. 2 was summoned by his father to the Parliament by the name of E. of Chester , and Flint ; since which it hath continued as a title in the Princes of Wales ; and there you shall be sure to find who were Earles of Flint . GLOCESTER . GLocester●shire , antiently was part of the possessions of the Dobuni . A fruitful and a pleasant Countrey , being honoured with a full course of the river of Severne , and the originall or fountaine of the River of Thames . That part thereof which is beyond the Se●erne is overspread with woods ; all which included in one name , make the Forrest of Deane . That part that butteth upon Oxfordshire , is swelled up with hils , called the Cotswold hils ; but these even covered , as it were with sheep , which yeelds a wooll of notable finenes●e , hardly inferiour to the best of England . Between those two is seated a most fruitfull Vale , fruitfull to admiration , of all kindes of graine , and heretofore of Vine● and Vineyards ; the want of which is now supplied by a drink made of Apples , called Syder , which here they make in great abundance . In this so fruitfull Vale stands the City of Glocester , denominating all the Countrey ; and taking name from the old Glevum , herein placed by Antonine ; for Gleaucester the Saxons stiled it . A fine and neate city I assure you t is , daintily seated on the Severne ; with a large Keye or wharse on the bankes thereof , very commodious to the Merchandise and trade of the place ▪ The streets are generally faire , and the town well built . And which addes no smal lustre to it , Richard the 3 , once Duke hereof , by laying unto it two of the adjacent hundreds made it a County of it selfe ; calling it the County of the City of Glocester . A City finally it is , as worthy to denominate so rich a Countrey , as is the Countrey to give title to those eminent persons , that in their severall times and ages , have been the Dukes and Earles of Glocester . 1100 1 Rob. base son of K. H. 1. E. 1147 2 William .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1188 3 Iohn sans Terre , son to K ▪ H. the 2 who married Isabel , daughter and coheire of Wil. E. of Gloce.     ✚ ✚ ✚   4 Geof . de Mandeville E. of Essex , 2. husband of Isabel.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1216 5 Abmeric de Evreux , son of Mabell , another coheire of E. Wil.     ✚ ✚ ✚   6 Gilbert the Clare , son of Amice another of the Coheires . 1230 7 Rich. de Clare . 1262 8 Gilb. de Clare , who married Ioane of Acres , daughter to K. Edw. 1.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1297 9 Ralph . de Monte Hermer , 2 husband of Ioane of Acres .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1314 10 Gilb. de Clare , son of Gilb. and Ioane .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1337 11 Hugh L. Audley , married Isabell sister and coheire of Gilb.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1347 12 Tho. of Woodstock , D. of Gloc. & L. Constable . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1398 13 Tho. L. Spencer , grand son of Eleanor coheire of Gilb E.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1414 14 Humf. son to K. H. 4. D *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1461 15 Rich. Plantagenet brother to K. Edw. 4 L ▪ Adm. and Const. D. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1640 16 Henry 3 son of our dread Soveraigne L. K. Charles ; declared by his Royall Father D. of Gloces . and so now entituled , An. 164● but not yet created . HARTFORD . HArtford-shire is another of those Countries , which formerly were inhabited by the Cattreuch●ani . A Country , as it is described by Camden , rich in corne fields pastures , meadowes , woods , groves , and cleere riverets ; and which for ancient Townes may compare with any of its neighbours ; there being no one shire in England , that can shew more places of antiquity , in so small a compasse . It conteines in it but 120 Parishes , and of them 18 are market Townes . The Shire-towne , which doth also give denomination unto all the Country is Hertford , seated on the banke of the river Lea , by Beda called Herudford , which some interpret the Red ford , and others some the Ford of herts . A Towne not much frequented , nor greatly inhabited , as overtopped by Ware , which enjoyeth the through-fare ; and by S. Albans , which enjoyeth the trade of all the Countrey . The greatest commendation of it is in the antiquity ; and that it hath been longest ● title of honour , of any other in this Country : the Family of the Clares and Seymours having been long enobled with the stile of Earles of Hartford . 1139 1 Gilbert de Clare . 1152 2 Rog. de Clare . 1174 3 Rich. de Clare .   4 Gilb. de Clare . 1230 5 Rich. de Clare . 1262 6 Gilb. de Clare . 1314 7 Gilb. de Clare .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1537 8 Edw. Seymour , Visc. Beauchamp , created Earle of Hartford , by King Henry the 8 , after D. of Somerset , died 1551. * 1558 9 Edw. Seymour . 1621 10 Wil. Seymour , now E. of He●●ford 1641. HEREFORD . HEreford-shire , was in times past inhabited by the Silures . A Countrey , which besides that it is right pleasant , is for yeelding of corne , and feeding of cattell , in all places most fruitfull , and therewith passing well furnished with all things necessary for mans life ; insomuch that it would scorne to come hehind any one County in England , the people using it for a byword , that for three W.W.W. that is , Wheat , Wooll , and Water , it yeeldeth to no shire in all the Kingdome . The name is taketh from Hereford , the chief Town thereof , which rose out of the ruines of old Ariconium , here placed by Antonine ; the tract and foot-steps of which name , it doth still retaine . The Town is seated very pleasantly upon the banks of the River Wye , in the middle of most flourishing Meadowes , and no lesse plentifull corne fields : and for defence thereof , had once a strong and stately Castle , which now time hath ruined . The Normans became masters of the place , assoone almost as they had made their entrance into England , and unto them the Castle oweth its original ; and 2 yeares after the said Conquest , it was made an Earldom , and hath since given the title of Dukes , Earles , and Viscounts . 1068 1 Wil Fitz-Osborn . E. of Heref. 1072 2 Rog. de Breteville .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1141 3 Miles de Glocest. L. Co● .   4 Rog. L. Co. 1154 5 W●lter L. Co.   6 Henry L. C.   7 Makel , L. C.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1199 8 Henry de Bohun , grand-child of Marg. daughter of , ● . Miles , L.C. 1220 9 Humf de Bohun , L.C. 1275 10 Hum. de Bohun , L.C. 1298 11 Hum. de Bohun , L.C. 1322 12 Iohn de Bohun , L.C. 1336 13 Hum. de Bohun , L.C. 1361 14 Hum. de Bohun , L.C. died 1372. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1397 15 Hen. of Bullingbrooke , D. of Hereford , married Mary daug . and coheire of E. Hum. after the extinction of his line , the Staffords did sometimes use the stile of Hereford . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1547 16 Walt. d'Evreux , Visc. descended by the Bourchiers from the Boh. * 1558 17 Walt. d'Evreux , Visc. E. of Essex . * 1576 18 Rob. d'Evreux , Visc. E of Essex . * 1604 19 Rob. d'Evreux , now Visc. Heref ▪ and E. of Essex , 1641. HOLDERNESSE . HOldernesse is the name of a large Promontory or head-land , in the East-riding of York-shire , lying on the South-east of the river of Hull : P●olomy seems to call it Ocellum , a certaine Monk Cavam Deiram , or the Hollow Country of the Dei●ians ; expressing in those words the new name of Holdernesse . William the Conquerour gave this territory to Stephen the son of Od● of Champaig●e Lord of Aumerie , in Normandy ; whose issue did continue Lords hereof , whiles any issue of that house continued . But that line being extinct in Aveline , first wife of Edmund Earle of Lancaster , the Earldome of Aub●rmarle , and the honour of Holdernesse were seised into the Kings hands , for default of heires . It hath lien dormant since , till these later days ; in which K. Iames ▪ bestowed this title , on 1620 1 Iohn Ramsey , Visc. Hadi●gton in Scotland , cr . E. of Holdernesse and Bar. of Kingston upon Thames , 18 Iac. Dec. 30. Mort sans issue . HOLLAND . HOlland is one of the 3 parts of Lincol●sh ▪ situate on the South-West co●ner of it , in the fennes and marishes . The ground surrounded much with waters , heretofore yeelded very small store of graine , but great plenty of grasse , and plentifully furnished ●oth with fish and fowle . But now upon the dreyning of this fenny Country , they begi● to plough it , and sowe the same 〈◊〉 ploughed with rape-seed , which yeelds a very great increase , and is become a rich ●ommo●ity . The Town of most antiq●ity is Crowland , heretofore famous for the Abby , valued at the supression at 1217 l. 5 s. 11 d. per Annum . That of most trade and note is Boston ; a fine Town indeed , and very famous for the lan●erne , which is a very excellent sea-mark , and a land-mark too . And this with all , is to be noted of this Country , that howsoever one can hardly ●●nd a stone in it ( such is the softnesse of the soyle ) yet you shall no where finde more beautyfull Churches , all built of square and polished stone . It now giveth title of an E. to 1624 1 Hen. Rich ▪ L. Ke●sington , cr . E. of Holland , 22 Iac. Apr. 3 , now living and Chan. of Cam. 1641. HVNTINGDON . HVntingdon-shire was heretofore inhabited by the Iceni . A Country generally good for corne and tillage ; and towards the East , where it adjoyneth on the fennes , as rich in pasturage : elsewhere it is as pleasant , though not so profitable , by reason of the rising hils , and fine shady groves . It hath been heretofore well beset with Woods , and was indeed a Forest till the time of King Henry the second , in the beginning of whose reigne , disforested . In this regard , the Forest yeelding speciall opportunity , and delight for Hunters , the chiefe Town of it had the name of Hunter downe , we now call it Huntingod● , with very little variation . The Towne commodiously seated upon the northern bank of the River Ouse , rising unto the No●th on the ascent of an hill : adorned with foure parish Churches , and had a little A●bey once , founded by Maud the Emper. and Eustace Lovelos● : the ruines of the which , and of a far●e more ancient Castle , built by King Edward the older , Anno 917 ▪ are yet to be seene . This County con●●ineth in it five other market Townes , besides the shire-Towne , and 79 Parishes in the whole : and did become an Earldome presently on the Norman Conquest , as it hath ever since continued in these Earles of Huntingdon . ●068 1 Waltheof .     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1075 2 Simon de Senlys ; married Maud the daughter of Waltheof .     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚   3 David Pr. of Scotland , 2 husband of Maud. 1138 4 Henry sonne of David King of Scots .     ✚ ✚ ✚   5 Simon de S. Lyz.     ✚ ✚ 1152 6 Malcolm King of Scots , sonne of Hen.   7 Wil. after K. of Scots . 1174 8 Simon de S. Lys , E. 1190 9 David 3 son of Henry . 1219 10 Iohn le Scot son of David ,     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1337 11 Wil. de Clinton .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1377 12 Guiscard d●Angolesme . ✚     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1388 13 Iohn Holland , L. high Chamb. 1400. 1416 14 Iohn Holland , D. of Exet. ✚ 1447 15 Hen. Hol. D ▪ of Exon.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1474 16 Tho. Grey , Marq. Dorset ▪     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1479 17 Wil. Herb.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1529 18 George Lord Hastings , created Earle of Huntingdon by King H. the 8. 1544 19 Fr. Hastings . ✚ 1560 20 Hen. Hastings . ✚ 1595 21 Geo. Hastings .   22 Henry Hastings , now Earle ▪ 1639. KENDALL . KEndall , is the name of a Town in Westm●rland , called also Cand●le , and Kirk by Candals , as being seated in a dale neere the river Can. The Town built in the manner of a Crosse , two long and broad streets crossing one another ; a Town of great resort & trade , especially for woollen cloaths , which they make there in great abundance , and thence vent through all parts of England . This Town hath been an antient Barony , descending from the Talboyses , to the Breoses or Bruces ; by them unto the Rosses of Wark , some of whose line a●tained the title of ● . Rosse of Kendal , so to distinguish them from the Lord Roos of Hamlake ; and so at last unto the Parres , to one of which it gave the title of Baron of Kendall , as it hath done before of E. to others , of more note and eminency ; which are these that follow ,   1 Iohn D. of Bedford , 3 son unot K. H. 4 , Regent of France , and E. of Kendall . ✚     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Iohn D. of ●omerset , E. of Kend. ✚     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1446 3 Iohn de Foix , cr . E. of Kend. by K. H. 6 , since which , those of that Family do write themselves ●●rles of Longueville and Kendall .   ✚ ✚ ✚ 1539 4 William Parre Knight , created Lord Parre of Kendall , 30 Henry the 8. March 9 ( created after Earle of Ex. by King Henry the 8. and Marques●e of Northampton by King Edward the 6 the rights and interests of which house are now devolved unto the He●berts , Earles of Pem●roke , descending from the Lady Anne , sister and heire of the said Lord Parre . KENT . KEnt , in Latine Ca●●um , so called as being seated in the Canton or Corner of the kingdome , is a very rich and pleasant Countrey , lying between the T●ames and the narrow Seas . A Contrey very good for corne , and fit for pasturage , according to the severall plots and parts thereof ; and wondrous full of fruitfull and well-ordered Orchards , from whence the City of London is supplied with most sort of fruit . The Villages and Towns stand exceeding thick , bei●g in all 398 Parishes , besid●s lesser Hamlets , which make up the two Diocesses of Canterbury and Rochester . It hath also divers safe Roades , and sure Harbours for ships ; and those exceeding well defended with Forts and Castles . Caesar , when he arrived in k●nt , found here 4 kings ▪ ( for so they cal'd the Chiefes of the principall Families ) and gives this testimony of the people , that they were the most courteous , and civill of all the Britan● . In the declining of whose Empire , Vor●iger gave this Countrey unto the Saxons , who being Heathens , when the rest of the I●●e were Christians , gave an occasion to the Proverb of Kent and Christ●ndome . At that time it was made a Kingdome ; as in the entrance of the Normans it was made an Earldom , and so it hath continued in the p●rsons of these Earles of Kent . 1067 1 Odo B of B●ieux , halfe brother to the Conq. L. Ch. Iust. & L. Tr.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1141 2 Wil. of Ypre● .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1227 3 Hub de Burgh ▪ L. Ch Iust.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1321 4 Edm. of Wood stock , son to K. E. 1. 1330 5 Edm. Plantag . 1333 6 Iohn Plantag .     ✚ ✚ ✚   7 Tho Hol. married the La. Ioane , of Kent , daugh . of Edm. of Wood. ✚ 1360 8 Tho. Holland . 1397 9 Tho. Hol. D. of Surrey . ✚ 1400 10 Edm. Hol. L. Adm.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1461 11 Wil. Nevill L. Falconbridge .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1464 12 Edm. Grey , L Rut●yn . L. Tr. cr . E. of Kent by K. Edw. 4.   13 Geo. Grey . 1506 14 Rich. Grey died 1523. 1571 15 Reginald Grey . 1572 16 Henry Grey . 1613 17 Charles Grey .   18 Hen. Gr●y . 1639 19 Anthony Grey , Clerk , Parson of ●urbage in the County of Leicester , grand-child of Anthony , 3 son of George Grey E. of Kent , now living , an●o 1641. KINGSTON . KIngston , is the name of a well known and eminent Town in the East Riding of York-shire , which standing on the mouth of the river Hull , where it doth fall into the Humber , is better known amongst us by the name of Hull . A town indeed of no antiquity , being first built by Edward the ● , who liking the situation of the place , compounded for it with the Abbot of Meaux , ( to whom it formerly belonged ) and there built the town , and caused it to be called Kingston . It rose up in a little time to great reputation ; so that for faire and sumptuous buildi●gs , strong blockhouses , well furnished ships & wealth of trade , it is become the most remarkable town for merchandise in these parts of Eng. Michael de la Pole , the first E. of Suffolk of that Family , being son of Wil. d● la Pole , a rich merchant here ▪ obtained great priviledges for the place , whi●h his successors as they grew in favour , did i●crease and multiply : and in the dayes of H. 6 ●il . E. Marq. and D of Suffolk , procured it to bee made a County incorporate , as our Lawyers phrase it . Of late dayes of a County it became the Earldome , of 1628 1 Rob. Pierrepont , Visc. Newark , cr . E. of Kingston upon Hull , 4. Car. Iuly 25 , who is now living , Ann● 1641. LANCASTER . LAncashi●e , or the County Palatine of Lancaster , was heretofore a part of the Brigants ; and lieth upon the Irish●ea ●ea ▪ to the North of Ch●shire . The ground accounted not so fert●le as in other places , fitter for oates and such leane corne , than wheate or barley . And yet it is observed with all , that in t●ose parts thereof , in which the husbandman is not wanting to it , in cost and labour , that there it yeldeth corne in a very good measure . The ayre ther●of may seem to be very healthfull ; and one would easily co●jecture so by the complexion of the people , which ar● faire and beautifull . And yet the Country is not much inhabited , as in the n●ighbouring shires ▪ about them : there being in so large a quantity of ground , as this shire con●aines , not above 36 ▪ Parishes though indeed many Chappel● of Ease , equall to P●rishes elsewhere for multitudes of people . It takes name from the Town of Lancas●e● , or more truly L●ncaster , seated upon the banks of the river L●nc , whence it had the name ; the Saxons adding Ceaster ( as in other places ) for the ●ermination . The Town not very well peopled , nor much frequented ; and yet of that authority and credit , that it gives name to all the County , and hath obteined this priviledge from K. Edw. the 3 , that the Sessions and Assises should be held in no other place . What Lords and Governours it had in the former times , we regard not here . The first time it became an Earldome , was when K. H. 3 , conferred that title on his 2 son Edm. and it was destin●te to greatnesse in the first foundation ; there being layed unto it at the ve●y first , besides this County , the whole con●iscated estates of the E●rles of Leices●er and Darby , and the B●rony of Monmouth . And into this by marriages accrewed in time , the great estates of Wil. de Fortibus , E. of A●merl● and Lord of Holdernesse , 〈◊〉 , and other goodly lands in Frances ; the Earldome of Lincoln , and good part of that of Salisbury , the Lorships of Ogmore and Kidwelly in Wales , which were once the Chaworths . Iohn of Ga●nt a d●d hereunto the Castles and Honours of Hertford , and Thickhill , and his son B●lling broke a moyetie of the lands of ●ohun ▪ being ● of Here●ord , Essex , and Northampton : so that it was the greatest patrimony ( as I verily thinke ) of any subject Prince in Christendome . Lancaster finally was made a County Palatine by K ▪ Edward the 3 , and hath been hounoured with the●e Dukes and Earles of Lancaster . 1267 1 Edm. ●lantagenet , 2 son of K Hen. the 3 , E. of Lanc. 1295 2 Tho. Plantagenet . 1324 3 Hen. Planta . 1345 4 Hen. Planta . first D ▪ of L.   ✚ ✚ ✚ 1361 5 Iohn of Gaunt son of K. Edw. the 3 married the La. Blanch daughter of H. D. of Lanch : ●399 ● Hen. of Bullingbroke , son of Iohn of Gaunt , after K. of Eng. by whom this County Palatine , and all the lands and honors belonging and incorporate into the Dutchy of Lancaster , were brought unto the Crown of Eng. though governed as an Estate apart , then by its proper Officers , as it continued til the time of K. Edw. the 4 , who did appropriate it to the Crown , and dissolved the former government thereof , to which it was restored again by K. H. 7 , and so still remaineth under the guidance of the Chancellor , and other Officers of the same . LEICESTER . LEicester-shire is a part of the Coritani , and ●ooke that name from Leicester the chiefe town thereof ; a town indifferent large , and of a reasonable handsom building , and as wel●raded as most inland towns that want ( as this ) the benefit of a navigable river . It had once a very faire Collegiate Church within it , & a faire Abbey close unto 〈◊〉 , and a strong Castle therewithall ; but all these the iniquity and inju●y ●f time hath ruined . Only the Hospitall , of all the antient edifices ; stands still undefaced . As for the Countrey hence denominated , it beares corne good pl●nty , but is bare of woods ; the want of which is well supplyed with pit-coale , with which the North part of the Country doth store al the rest . It cō●eineth in the whole 200 Parishes , and of them 12 are market Towns ; the biggest , as in bulke being Leicester , so in title too ; as that which hath beene honored even before the ●onquest , with the stile and reputation of an Earldome ; and hath continued it till now in the names and families of these Earles of Leicester . 1057 1 Algar the Saxon.   2 Edwyn died 1071.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1103 3 Rob. de Bellomont . 1118 4 Rob. de Bellomont . 1167 5 Rob. de Beaumont L. S●ew . 1190 6 Rob. de Beaum. L. high Stew.     ✚ ✚ ✚   7 Simon de Montf . married Amicia , sister and coheire to the last E. Ro. E. of Lei. and L high Stew. 1239 8 Simon de Mont. L. high St●w .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1267 9 Edm. E. of Lanc. L. high Stew. 1295 10 ●ho . E. of Lanc. L. high St●w . 1324 11 Hen. ● . of Lanc. L. high Stew. 1345 12 Hen. D. of Lanc. L. high Stew. ✚     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1360 13 Wil of Bavaria , E. of Heinalt married the La. Maud of Lanc.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1361 14 Io. of Gaunt , D. of Lan. L. Stew. ✚ 1399 15 Hen. D. of Lanc. L. high Stew. ✚     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1564 16 Rob. Dudley , L. Denbigh , L. S. and of the house to Q. E. died , 1588. ✚ 1618 17 Rob Sidney , Vise . Li●le , descended of a sister of the last Rob. E. of Leicest . was by K. Iames cr . E. of Leic. Aug. 2.   18 Robert Sidney now Earle of Leices . Ambassadour extraordinary with the K of France , Anno 1641. LINCOLN . LIncoln-shire antiently belonged to the Core●ani . A very large and spacious Countrey , extending almost 60 miles in length , and some 30 in breadth ; within which compasse are included 630 ▪ Parish Churches , and of them 30 market Towns. It is accounted very kindly ground for the yeeld of corn , and feeding of cattell , and furnished in the lower part thereof with good store of fowle , which from hence are conveied to London in great abundance . It takes name from the principall City , by Ptolomy and Antonin● , called Lindum ; and after by the Saxons Lind●colline , either because it stands on so high an hill ( from the Latine Collis ) or that it had been formerly some Roman Colony . A Town of great renown and strength in the times of the Britans , and in the Normans time ( as saith William of Malmesbury ) it was one of the best peopled Cities of England ; a place of merchandise and traffick for al commers , both by sea and land ; insomuch that 〈◊〉 then Bishop of Dorc●s●er , thought fitting to translate hither his Episcopall see . From this opinion it then had , first began the Proverb , that Lincoln was , London is , &c. The Bishops of Lincoln what and how they were , we have seen already . We will now look a while on the Ea●les of Lincoln . ●140 1 Wil. de Romara , E. of Lincoln .     ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Gilb. de Gaunt . 1216 3 Gilb. de Gaunt .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1218 4 Randal de Meschines , E. of Che. whose grand-father , halfe brother unto Wil. de Romara , by the mothers side .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1232 5 Iohn ●acy descended by his mother from E. Randall . 1251 6 Henry de Lacy , whose daughter Alice was married unto Tho. E. of Lancaster , and settled all her lands upon that Family .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1354 7 Hen. D. of Lanc ▪ * ●361 8 Iohn of Gaunt D. of Lanc. * 1399 9 Hen. of Bullingbroke D. of Lanc. after K. of Eng.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1467 10 ●ohn de la Pole , son and heire of Iohn D. of Suffolke .     ✚ ✚ ✚ ●525 11 Henry Brandon son and heire of Charl●s D. of Suffolk .   ✚ ✚ ✚ 1572 12 Edward Fenys , Lord Clinton , Lord Admirall , created Earle of Lincolne , by Queen Elizabeth . 1585 13 Hen. Fenys . 1616 14 Tho. Fenys . 1618 15 Theophilus Fenys . now Earle of Lincoln , 1641. LINDSEY . LIndsey is one of the 3 parts of Lincolnshire , ( the other 2 being Holland , which we spake of lately , and Kesteven , not yet become an honourary title , as the others are . It conteineth all the Northerne parts thereof , from the river Witham unto Humber , and from the Ocean to the Trent . Happy above the rest , not in bignesse only ; but that in this part stands the City of Lincoln , the chiefe denominator of the County , which being the antienly called Lindum ( as before I said ) gave to this part the name of Lindsey , for by that name of Lindsey , it is now the Earldome of 1626 1 Robert Bertu , Lord Willoughby of Eresby , and Lord great Chamberlaine of England , created E. of Lindsey , 2 Car. Novemb. 29 , now living , 1641 , MANCHESTER . MAnchester is a good Town of Lancashire , situate on the hithermost part thereof , where it joyneth to the County of Darby . A Town of very great antiquity , known to the Emperour Antonine , by the name of Manc●nium ; part of which name it still retaines . And still it carrieth a good accompt , and far excels the Towns lying round about it , both for the beautifull shew it carrieth , and the resort unto it of the neighboring people , and which allures them thither , the great trade of Cloathing , Manchester Co●tons being famous in all drapers shops . It is remarkable also in those parts for the large Market place , for a faire Church , and for the Colledge : which last being founded first by the Lord De la Ware , was afterwards refounded or confirmed by Qu. Eliz. consisting fo a Warden and certaine fellows , which notwithstanding , it is y●t more famous , in being made the honorary title of 1625 1 Henry Montague , Vise . Mandevi cr . E. of Manch . ● Car. F●● . 7 , b●ing then L President of the Councel , now L. Privy Seale , Anno 1641. MARCH . March is a name of different nature , from the rest before , as being neither Towne nor County . Vnder that name of March or of Marches rather , our Ancestors did comprehend those ba●able grounds between Wales and Eng. for governance whereof , and the repressing of the insolencies of either side , there were certaine Lords and Potent men , whose lands lay nearest to these parts , which were called Lords Marchers , who had great power and jurisdiction in their severall quarters . Amongst these were the Mortimers of Wigmore , men of great authority , who after were advanced above the rest , and made Earles of March. And it continued in that Family , untill it fell by marriage to the house of York ; and so by Edw. the 4 , to the Crown of Eng. Nor was it long before the authority of the Lords Marchers was extinguished quite , by the uniting of Wales to E● . & either making new shires of the said March ground , ( such as are Monmouth , Brecknoch , Radnor , Denbigh and Montgomcry ) or laying it unto the old , for which consult the Act of Parliament 27 H. 8. cap. 26. However the title of E. of March is revived again ; only translated from the house of Mortimer , to that of Stewart ; out of which houses have been successively , these Earles of March. 1327 1 Rog. L. Mortimer of Wigmore . * 1354 2 Roger Morti. 1359 3 Edm. Morti. 1381 4 Rog. Morti. 1399 5 Edm. Morti.     ✚ ✚ ✚   6 Edw. Plantagenet , son of Rich. D. of York , and after K. of Eng. of that name the 4.   7 Edw. eldest son of K. Edw. 4. ●     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1619 8 Esme Steward L. Aubigny , created E. of March 17 Iac. Iun ▪ 7. after D. of Lennox . * 1624 9 Iames D. of Lennox and Earle of March , Anno 1641. * MARLEBVRGH . MArleburgh is a Town in the North-east part of Wilt-shire , seated not far off from the head of the river Kenet : which runneth thence to Hung●rford , and Newbury , and so by Reading into the Thames . The Towne called antiently Cunetio in Antonino's Itinerarium , as the river was : but by the Normans , in whose time this Town revived ( out of the ruines of the old ) it was called Marleburgh , as being seated in a chaulky soyle , which in some places still we call by the name of Marle . A Town stretched out from East to West , upon the pendant of an hill , and had a Castle once belonging unto Iohn , sirnamed Sans t●rre , who afterwards was K. of England which is still famous in our Law books , for a Parliament there held , 52. H. 3 , in which were made the ●tatutes ( from hence called ) of Marleburgh , right necessary for the peace and tranquility of the people , as is affirmed in the preamble unto the same . Our Soveraigne at his Coronation made it yet more notable , in making it th● honour , as it was the neighbour of 1625 1 Iames L. Ley , L. Tr. cr . E. of Marleburgh , 1 Car. Feb 7. 1628 2 Henry Ley.   3 Iames Ley , now E. of Marleburgh , Anno 1641. MARSHALL . THe title of E. Ma●shall is different from the rest of England , all of the which ( the title of Earle Rivers excepted only ) are locall , or denominated from some place ; this only personall : the residue being only honorary , this honorary and officiary , both together . Antiently they that had this office were only Marshals of the Kings house , according as the same is now discharged by the Knights Marshall . But in succeeding times it grew to be a place of great power , and honour ; as it still continueth . At first they had the title of L. Marshall only . Rich. the 2 was the first , who by letters Pa●ents advanced them to the dignity of Earles Marshals , and with all gave them power to beare a staf●e of gold , enammeled black at both ends , with the Kings Armes on the upper end , and their own Armes on the lower ; whereas before that time , the Marsh●ls ; had no other than a wooden staffe , as other the Great Officers have at Court. Before this time , they were L. Ma●shals only , as before I said . For howsoever the title of E. Marshall and Comes Marescallus , doth many times occurre in our antient histories . Yet I conceive that it was only given them then by the cour●esie or curiality of England , because the Office in those dayes was vested in the person of none but Earles ; as by the like mistake or courtesie , we find the title of Comes Seneschallus , and Comes Constabularius in some old Records . the manour of Hamsted Marshall in the County of Berkshire , was held of old by Grand Sergianty of the Kings of England ; conditioned that the Grantees should for ever be the K. Marshals , according as the Offices of Steward , Constable , and Lord High Chamberlaine , in those times were granted . What the authority and jurisdiction is of this great Officer , we regard not here , it being our undertaking only to lay down the names of those ( as many at lest as I have met with in my reading ) which in their severall times have borne the title of Lords and Earles Marshall . 1135 1 Gilbert de Clare , L. Marshal , created E of Pembrok by K. Stephen . Anno 1139. 1149 2 Richard de Clare , sirnamed Strongbow , E. of Pemb. and L. Marsh. died Anno 1176. 1176 3 Iohn , sirnam●d Marshall , fr●m this Office , which was conferred on him by K. H. 2 ▪ upon the death of Rich. E. of Pemb. 4 William Marshall , L. Marshall , the grand-child of the former Iohn , who having married Isabel daug . and heire of Ric. Strongbow , was cr . E ▪ of Pemb. by K. Io. An. 1201 1219 5 William Marshall , the younger , E. of Pemb. 1231 6 Rich ▪ Marsh. E. of Pemb. 1234 7 Gilb Marsh. E. of Pemb. 1242 8 Wal. Marsh. E. of Pemb. 1245 9 Anselm . Marsh. E. of Pemb. 1245 10 Roge● Bigot , E. of Norfolk , L. Marshall , in right of Maud his mother , one of the sisters and heires of the 5 last Marshals . 1269 11 Roger Bigot Earle of Norfolke , whose estate being confiscated to the Crown , came after his decease to the K. hands . 1307 12 Robert de Clyfford , made Lord Marshall by K. Edw. 2 , duran●e benep●acito .   13 Nicolas de Seagrave . 1315 14 Thomas de Brotherton Earle of Norfolk , was in the 9. of Edw. 2. made L. Marsh. 1388 15 Margaret , daughter and heire of Thom. de Brotherton , is often honored with the title of La. Marsh. and was afterwards cr . Dutch. of Norf.   16 Wil. de Montacute .   17 Tho. Beauchamp .   18 Edmund Mortimer , did severally and successively discharge the Office of L. Marsh. but whether as Deputies for the La. Marga. ●●ndum planè constat . 1377 19 Henry Lord Percy , L. Marsh. at the coronation of K Rich. 2.     Earles Marshall . 1383 20 Tho. L. Mowbray , ● . of Notingh . nephew unto the Lady Marg. by her daughter Eliz. was made the first E. Marsh. by K. Rich. 2 , and was after D. of Norfolk . 1398 21 Tho. Holland , E. of Kent and D. of Surrey , was made E. Marsh , upon the banishment of the D. of Norfolk . 1399 22 Tho. L. M●wb ▪ E. of Noting . did on his fathers death ( at Venice ) assume the title of E ▪ Marsh. but the office was exercised by   23 Ralp . Nevill E. of Westmerland , made L. M of En. by K. H. 4. for terme of life , in the beginning of his r●igne . 1412 24 Iohn L. Mowb. brother of Tho. E. M. was by K H 5. restored unto the title of E. of Notingham , and E. M and by K. H. 6. to that of Norfolk . 1432 25 Iohn L. Mowb. D. of Norf. E. Mar.   26 Iohn L. Mo. D. of Nor. & E. M.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1476 27 Ric. D. of York , 2 son of K. Edw. 4 , was by his Father cr . D. of N. and ● . Marsh. and after married Anne daughter and heire of the last Mow. D of Norfolk . 1483 28 Iohn L. How. descended from the L. Tho. Mow. first D. of Norf. cr . D. of Norf. and E. Marsh. by K. Rich. 3. 1486 29 Wil. L. Berkley , E. of Notingham descended from another daughter of the said first D. of Norfolk cr . E. Marsh. by K. H. 7. and Marq. Barkeley . 1497 30 Hen. D. of York , the 2 son of K. Hen 7. cr . E. M. by his Father , & was after K. of Eng. 1509 31 Tho. How. Earle of Surrey , son of Ioh. L. How. D. of Norfolk , was by K H. 8. cr . first E. M and afterwards restored to the Duk. of Norfolk . 1546 32 Tho. How. D. of Norfolk , and E. Marsh. attainted An. 1546. 1547 33 Edw. Seymour , D. of Somerset , And L. Protector of K ▪ Edw. the 6 , was in the said Kings time cr . E. Marshall . 1553 34 Tho. D. of Norfolk and E Marsh. restored unto his bloud and honours , by Q. Mary . 1554 35 Thomas Howard D. of Nor. and E. Marsh. beheaded , 1571. 1572 36 Geo Talbot , E of Shrewsbury & E. M. died anno 1590. 1597 37 Rob. d'Evreux E. of Essex , and E. Mar. died anno 1601.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1603 37 Edw. Somerset , E. of Worcester executed the office of Earl Marshall at the Coronation of K. Iames , after which time the Office was a long time executed by Commission . 1621 38 Thomas Howard , Earle of Arundell and Surrey , ( grand son of Thomas , Duke of Norfolk , by his son Philip Earle of Arundell ) was by King Iames created Earle Marshall , as hee still continueth , Anno 1641. MIDDLESEX . MIddlesex is a part of the Trinobantes , lying upon the banks of the river T●ames . A Coun●y not so large as others , but far more remarkable , for sumptuous houses , wel-built villages , a fertile soyle , and temperate aire ; and which addeth most unto it , for the great Cities of London and Westminster , which are seated in it , and for the constant residence of the Court , the Receptacle and aboade of the Kings of Eng. who have made this County happy above others with their Royall mansions . Whitehall , and Hampton Court , Somerset house and S. Iames , still in the possession of the Crown ; Enfeild , and Hanworth , aliened now , have either been the chiefe aboades , or retiring places of our Kings and Princes . In which regard , the Kings of Eng. antiently ( as Camden notes it ) vouchsafed the title of Middlesex unto none , neither D. Marq. E. nor B. although , I know not by what popular error , the Citizens of London reckoned the L. Major elect , for E. of Middlesex . Which whatsoever ground it had , hath none now to stand on , that title being not long since bestowed on 1622 1 Lionel L. Cranfeild . L. Tr. of Eng. cr . E. of Middlesex , 20 Iac. Sep. 17. & now alive , Anno 1641. MONMOVTH . MOnmouth-shire is the neerest shire of Wales , though it desires rather to be accounted a part of England , and is indeed included in the circuit of the English Iudges . It lieth upon the North of the river Sev●n , there where it groweth into a Sea ; the East parts full of grasse and woods , the West somewhat hilly , and stony withall ; yet not unprofitable to the husbandman , if he be not wanting to himselfe . It takes name from the chiefe Town Monmouth , and that from being seated on the mouth of the River Mu●ow , there where it shootes into the Wye . It was the Barony once of Iohn L. of Monmouth , on whose attaindure it was setled in the house of Lancas●er ; from whom it after did receive great priviledges and immunities , which they still enjoy . Henry the fift , son unto King Henry the fourth ( the first of the Lancastrian Family ) was in this place borne , ( which shewes that noble Family so highly prized it , to make it their dwelling ) and was from hence called Henry of Monmouth . That one particular enough , to renown the place ; and therefore we shall adde no more . It is b●longing still to the house of Lancaster , as to the possession , being dependant on the Dutchy ; and not much aliened from it as unto the title : the Caries , which derive themselves from Lancaster , by the line of Somerset , being now honoured with the title of Earles of Monmouth . 1625 1 Robert Lord Cary of Leppington , created E. of Monmouth , ● Car ▪ Feb. 7. 1639 2 Robert Cary now Earle of Monmouth , now living , Anno 1641 , MONTACVTE . MOntacute is the name of a very antient & illustrious Family , so called from Montacute , a sharp ●ill in the South parts of Somerset● shire , between Evill and Martok . The place called Biscopeston by the Saxons , but by the E. of Moriton brother by the mothers side to William the Conquerour ( who built a Castle on the top of it ) it was called Montacute . It afterwards gave name to that noble Family ( as before I said ) who being Lords hereof came after to be Earles of Salisbury ▪ and since in other Families ( but descending from them ) hath been the honorary stile and appellation of these Marq. Lords & Visc. Montacute . 1461 1 Iohn Nevill , grandchild of Thom. Mont●cute , E. of Salis cr . L. Mon. 1 Edw. 44. and after Marq. Monta. Anno 1470.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1504 2 Hen. Pole , great granchild . of Rich , Nevill , the elder brother of the said Iohn L. Mont.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1553 3 Antho. Brown descen . from the La. Lucy , daugh ▪ of Ioh. Mar. Mont. cr . Visc. Mont. 1 Ma● . Sept. 2. 1592 4 Anth. Brown Visc. Monta.   5 Anth. Brow. now living , An. 1641. MONTGOMERY . MOntgomery-shire is one of the new shires of Wales , taken out of the March-grounds by K. H. 8. Anno 27 ; of his reigne , so called ●rom the Town and Castle of Montgomery , & that from Roger de Montgomery a noble Norman , Earle of Shrewsbury , who winning much ●and herabouts from the Welch , first built it to secure his Conqu . It standeth not for from the banks of the river Severne , upon the rising of a rock ; from whence it hath a very free prospect into a pleasant plaine that lyeth beneath it . The Family of the Herberts is very much diffused , and of great authority in this Country ▪ out of which Family 1605 Philip Herbert 2 son of Hen. Earle of Pembrok , was cr E. of Montgomery 3 Iac. May 4 , and is now also E. of Pembrok and L. Cham. An. 1641. MOVLGRAVE . MOulgrave is an antient Castle in the north riding of York-shire , situate neare unto the sea , and not far from Whitbay . First built it was by Peter de Mouley , ( or de malo lacu , in the Latine ) in the time of Rich. 1 , and being in his eye , a very beautifull pile , was by him called Moult-Grace , but being a greivous yoke to the neighbour inhabitants , was by them called Moult-grave , by which name , and no other , now the world takes notice of it . It continued in his line for seven generations , and all of them called Peters too : and then the issue male failing , it passed through severall Families by the heires generall , and now belong●th to the Sheffeilds ; out of which house 1625 1 Edm. L. Sheffeild L. President of the North , was cr . E. of Moulgrave , 1 Car. Feb. 7 , and is still alive , Anno 1641. NEWCASTLE . NEw-Castle is the hithermost town of all Northumberland , and the chiefe of the North ; seated upon the further banke of the river Tine , which is there so deep , and well fenced withall , that it giveth a very safe station to the tallest ships . It standeth on the declining of a very steep hill , adorned with 4 Churches , fortified with strong wals , & beautified with goodly buildings . A town of very great resort , especially by reason of the trade of Sea cole , which is conveyed hence to all parts of the Kingdome , and many other parts of Christendome . It rose out of the ruines of old Gabrosentum : and had this new name from a Castle built by Robert son of Wil. the Conq. And thriving by the benefit and entercourse of trade , became at length of such reputation , that by K. H. 6. it was made a County incorporate , as we use to say ; and finally thought worthy to give the honour of an E to 1623 1 Ludowick D. of Lennox and E. of Richmond , cr . E. of Newcastle , 2 Iac. in May.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1627 2 Wil. Cavendish , Visc. Mansfield , cr E ▪ of Newcastle , 3 Car Mar. 7. Now Gover. and Gent. of the Bedchamber of the Prince his high . A. 1641 , NEWPORT . NEwport is the chiefe Town of the Isle of Wight , called in times past Medena , afterwards Novus burgus de Meden , and by us now , Newport . A Town well seated and much frequented , and withall populous in it selfe ; which most ariseth from the benefit of a little haven capable of vessels of the smaller burden , which com● up to the very key . For government within , it hath a Major and Burgesses , being made a Corporation by K. Ia●es , and for a further lustre to it , in the world abroad , it pleased our Soveraigne L. K. Charles , to create 162● Montjoy Blount , Lord Montjoy , E. of Newport , 3 Car. Aug. 3 , who is now Master of the Ordnance , and of the Counsell for warre , Ann● 1641. NORFOLK . NOrfolk is the greatest County of Eng. next to Yorksh. but far 〈◊〉 populous than that ; as comprehending in the whole 660 Parish Churches , of which 27 are market towns . It antiently was a part of the Iceni , and next the Northern part of the Kingdome of the East-Angles , from whence it had the name of Northfolk , as hath the Southern people of it , the name of Southfolk . The soyle according to the variety of places is of different nature ; in some fat , rank , and full of moysture ; in others very light and sandy : yet so that one contributing unto the other , and the sea giving help to both , it is very plentifull country for corne , sheep , and fish . The people notably industrious both for plough and manufactures ; insomuch that one shall hardly see a begger throughout all the Countrey : And yet ( which makes the merveile much the greater ) they are notable wranglers , well versed and studied in the quirks of Law , and consequently create more work for the Assises , than almost all the circuit else . But then it is observed withall , that this disposition hath brought some reputation with it , as furnishing the Courts of Ius●ice with many an eminent man in the laws of Eng. and yeelding generally the best breed of Lawyers . It is observed , by a great antiquary of this Kingd . that in this County are ●oo Families of antient Gentry , which never were attainted of high treason , which if it be true , the Gentry of Norfolk have had better fortune than the Dukes and Earles . 1070 1 Ralph . de Ware , E. of Norf.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1137 2 Hugh Bigot . 1177 3 Rog. Bigot .   4 Hugh Bigot . 1125 5 Rog. Bigot . 1270 6 Rog. Bigot .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1312 7 Tho. de Brotherton , first son of K. Edw. 1 , E , of Norf. 1398 8 Marga. daugh . of Tho. of Brotherton , Duch. of Norf.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1398 9 Tho. L. Mowbray son of the Lad. Marg. D. of Norf. * 1427 10 Iohn Mowb. * 1434 11 Iohn Mowbray . * 14●1 12 Iohn Mowbray . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1475 13 Rich. D. of York , & Norf. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1483 14 Iohn L. How. descended from the Lad. Margaret daugh . of Tho. 1 D. of Norf. died 1486. * 1512 15 Tho. How. L. Tr. and Adm. * 1524 16 Tho. How. L. Tr. * 1554 17 Tho. How. last D. of Norf. died 1572. NORTHAMPTON . THe County of Northampton , is situate almost in the very mid●le and heart of Eng. A Champion Countrey for the most part , exceeding populous , and ●o replenished with Townes and Churches , ( being in all 326 , whereof 10 are markets ) that in some places there are 20 or 30 steeples to be seen at once . The soyle exceeding fertile both for tillage and pasture , maintaining numerous flocks of sheep , and herds of cattell ; but somewhat destitute of woods . It takes name from North●●pton , the chiefe towne thereof , seated upon the river Nen ; which antiently called A●fona , but corruptly Antona , bestowed this name upon the town , being indeed built on the Northern bank . A town which for the beauty and circuit of it , may be well ranked with many Cities of the Kingdome : and heretofore so safe and sure by reason of the strong wals , ( from whence there is a goodly prospect into all the County ) & a strong Castle , now demolished ; that once the students of Cambridge had a purpose to remove their Vniversity unto it . This strength however made it obnoxious to some disadvantage , as being a place much aimed at in our Civill wars , and many a battaile fought about it , Yet never were the times so turbulent ▪ or the place so dangerous , but that there were some persons of superior ranke , who did affect the name , and enjoy the title of Earles and Marq. of Northampton .   1 Walt. E. of Huntingdon .     ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Simon de Senlis married Maud daugh . of Waltheof . 1153 3 Simon de Senlis .   4 Sim d● Senlis .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1337 5 Wil. de Bohun . 1360 6 Humf. de Boh. who being after E. of Hereford , added this title 10 that house , from whom it came unto the Staff. D. of Buck.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1547 7 Wil. L. Parre , Marq.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1693 ● Hen. How. brother of Tho. la●t D. of Norf. L. Pr. Seale     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1618 9 Wil. L. Compton , cr ▪ E. of Northa . 16 Iac. Aug. 2. L. Pres of Wa. 1630 10 Spencer Compton , now E. 1641 , NOrthumberland is a more contracted name now , than in former times . Heretofore it included all the Countries on the North of Humber , possessed of old by the B●igan●●s , and the Ottadini , now only the extreame a●d most northerne part , betwixt the rivers of Tine and Twede , all which the Oltadini once inhabited . The aire exceeding sharp and piercing , as being often visited with boystrous winds , hard frosts , and tedious snows ; to remedy which it yeelds abundance of sea-coale for fuell , and at very cheap rates . The soyle in generall neither fertile for corn or pasturage , as being for the most part exceeding rough and very hard to be manured , only in some parts towards the sea , by the late industry of the ploughman , and benefit of sea-weed , wherewith they do improve their ground , it is become indifferent fruitfull . The Countrey meanly populous , and but ill inhabited , partly by reason of the barrennesse of the Country , as before is said , and partly for the bad neighbourhood of the Scots , as commonly it is in March-lands or frontier countreyes . In this regard , it had almost as many Castles for defence of themselves ▪ as is Parish Churches for the service of God , there being 26 of the one , and but 46 of the other ; but then withall the P●●●shes were and are exceeding large , and have many Chappels of ease perteining to thē , which inconvenienc● of the soyle & seat may possibly have beene the reason why the possession of it held not long in any Family ( although the title and possession of it had been given to many ) untill the Percyes : who not without some interruption too , have continued long . By reason of which intermixture of severall Families ; it hath given to those Families the severall titles of Duke , and Earles of Northumberland . 1065 1 Morcar . E. of Northumb.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1071 2 Gospatrick .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1072 3 Waltheof . E. of Huntingd.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1076 4 Walcher Bish of Durham .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1086 5 Rob. de Mowb. devested 1095.     ✚ ✚ ✚   6 Hen Pr. of Scotl.   7 William K of Scots .     ✚ ✚ ✚   8 Hugh . Pudsey B. of Durham .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1377 9 Hen. Per. L. Const. 1414 10 Hen , Percy . 1455 11 Hen. Percy . 1461 12 Hen. Percy .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1465 13 Iohn Nevill , L. Monta. cr . E. of Northumb. by K , Edw. 4 , who after 6 yeares resigned it to the said Hen. Percy .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1489 14 Hen. Percy . 15 Hen. Percy died 1537.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1551 16 Iohn Dudley E. of Warwick , and L. Adm. D. of Northumb.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1557 17 Tho. Percy , E. of Northumb. 1574 18 Hen. Percy . 1585 19 Hen. Percy . 1633 20 Algernon Percy , now E. of Nort. and L. Adm. 1641. NORWICH . NOrwich is the chiefe City of Norfolk , and took that name as did the County , from the Northern situation of it . It standeth upon the river of Yare , which runs thence to Yarmouth , lying out in length a mile and an half ; not above halfe so much in breadth , and in that space conteineth about 30 Parishes ; well walled about with many a turret , and 12 gates for entrance . A City which for faire buildings , and resort of people , the painefull industry of the common ●ort , the great humanity of the richer , and the firme loyalty of all , in seditious times , may justly be accounted the 3 of England . Amongst the buildings those of speciall note ( next unto their Churches ) are the 2 Palaces of the D. of Norfolk , and earles of Surrey . And for the wealth and opulence , which it now enjoyeth , it standeth much indebted to the Net●erlanders , who flying from the D. of Alva , and the Inquisition , brought with them the making of baies and sayes and other manufactures ; whereby the poore are set on work , and the rich grow pursie . A place that hath been honored long with a see Episcopall , but neve● made a title of Civill honour , till 1626 Edw. L. Denny of Walthan was cr . E. of Norwich , a Car. Aug. 24. Mort sans issue masle . NOTTINGHAM . NOttinghamsh ▪ antiently was a part of the Coritani , well watred with the river of Trent , and many other pleasant streames . The people generally divide it into the sand , and the clay ; that being the E. part , taking up the forrest of Sherwood , famous for Rob. Hood , and his companions , this being the South , and Eastern part , more fruitfull , and more fit for corne ; and throughout well furnished both with wood and coale . It conteineth in it 168 Parishes , of which the chiefe , and that from whence the shire takes name is Nottingham . A Town well seated on the Trent , though very high up on an hill which overlookes it : for buildings , and faire streets , and a spatious market place , not giving way to many Cities . But that which gave the greatest ornament unto it , was indeed the Ca●●le , a Royall and magnificent building , which for strength , statelinesse , and command of prospect , may justly challenge the precedency of the best in Eng. Of Mortime●s hole there , who was hence haled to his executiō , and of the long imprisonment which David K. of Scots here suffred , the people are as good as a common Chronicle , and intermixe too , not afew Fables with the truth of story . But that which we have good record for , without fraud or fiction , is that it hath af●orded in successive Ages , these Lords and Earles of Nottingham .   1 Wil. Peverell , L. of the honour of Nottingham .   2 Wil. Peverell , L.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1141 3 Rob. de Ferrers , married Margar. daughter of Wil. Peverell .     ✚ ✚ ✚   4 Iohn , after K. of Eng.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1377 5 Iohn L. Mowbray . 1382 6 Tho. Mow. E. Mar. after D. of Nor. 1400 7 Tho. Mow. E. M. and D. N. 1405 8 Iohn Mow. E. M. and D N. * 1432 9 Iohn Mow. E. M. and D. N. * 1461 10 Iohn Mow. E. M and D. N. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1475 11 Rich. D. of York , 2 son of K Edw. 4 married the La. Anne , sole child of Iohn D of Norf. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1483 12 Wil. L. Berkley descended from the L Isab. daugh . of Tho. 1 D. of Nor. & E. of Nott. 1597 13 Charles L. How. of E●●ing . & L. Adm. de●cended by the house of Nor. from the Mow.   14 Charles How. now E. of Nottin . Anno 1641. OXFORD . OXford-shire is a part of the Dobuni , situated North-ward of the Thames , which parteth it all along from Berkshire . A plentifull and fruitfull Countrey , wherein the plaines are garnished with cornefields and meadows , the hils well covered with woods and the downes with sheep , and wanting in no kind of pleasure , which either hawke or hound can afford a Gentleman . It conteines in it , being no great circuit , 270 Parish Churches , and 10 market townes , the chiefe of which in name and beauty , giving denomination to the County , is the famous City and Vniversity of Oxford . A faire and goodly City , both for site and building ; whether one look on the magnificence of the publique structures , or the compacted uniformity of private houses . And sure it may be said without immodesty and heard without dislike or envy , that for the statelinesse of the Schooles and publique Library ; the bravery and beauty of particular Colledges , all built of faire and polished stone ; the liberall endowments of those houses , and notable incouragements of industry and learning in the salary of the Professors in most Arts and Sciences ; it is not to be parallelled in the Christian world : and for the number of her studens , and the well ordering of those Students by good laws and ordinances , not to be equalled by any but her sister Cambridge . From whence it had the name of Oxford , is adhuc sub judice : whether of Vadum Isidos , the ford of Ouse or Isis , on whose banks it stands , and so called Ousford ; or Vada boum , the ford of Oxen ( as the Greeks had their Bosphori in former times ) I determine not . Suffice it that this name is very antient , and that it antiently hath beene an Vniversity or seat of learning ; in which respect , it hath co-evity with that of Paris , if not priority above it , as being refounded by K. Alf●ed , Anno 806 , after it had been overborne a while by the Danish fury . Colledges it conteine●h in all 18. Hals for students 6 , and about 13 Paris● Churches . It is moreover a see 〈◊〉 and it hath withall received no small honour from the noble 〈◊〉 of the Veres , who now for 20 generations 〈◊〉 been Earles of Oxford . 1067 1 Edgar Atheling .     ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Aubrey de Ver● , L. high Chamb. 1146 3 Aubrey de Vere , L. high Ch. 1214 4 Rob. de Vere , L. high Ch. 1233 5 Hugh de Vere , L. high Ch. 1263 6 Rob. de Vere , L. high Ch. 1295 7 Rob de Vere , L. high Ch. 1331 8 Iohn de Vere , L. high Ch. 1358 9 Tho. de Vere ▪ L high Ch. 1310 10 Rob. de Vere , D. of Ireland . 1393 11 Aubrey de Vere . 1400 12 Rich. de Vere . * 1415 13 Iohn de vere . 1462 14 Iohn de Vere , L. high Ch. * 1512 15 Iohn de Vere , L. high Ch. 1526 16 Iohn de Vere . * 1539 17 Iohn de Vere , L. high Ch. 1562 18 Edw de Vere ▪ L. high Ch. 1604 19 Hen. de Vere , L. high Ch. 1624 20 Rob. de Vere . 1632 21 Aubrey de Vere , now Earle of Oxon , 1641 ▪ PEMBROKE . PEmbrok-shire was inhabited of old by the Dimetae , a Countrey quite surrounded by the Sea , save where it joyneth unto Cardigan and Carmarthen shires : A Countrey plentiful in corne and Cattell , not destitute of pit-coale ; and which is far above the rest ( as Giraldus tels us ) considering that it is so neare to Ireland , of a temperate and wholesome Aire . It conteines in it 140 Parish Churches , and 5 Markets ; that which is most of note being Milford , renowned for its safe and capacious haven . But that from which it takes denomination , is the town of Pembrok , seated upon a forked arme of Milford haven , and in the best part of all the Countrey . A town consisting principally of one long street on a long narrow point of rock ; and hath within the wals there of , two Churches . The Earles hereof in former times were County Palatines , and passed al things that concerned that County under the seale of the Earldom . And it continued so untill the reigne of H. 8. when as Wales was reduced to England , and the authority of the great Lords there , dissolved by Parliament . Since which the Earles of Pembrok have been meerely titular , as of other places , and of each sort were these in their severall Ages , the Marq. and Earles of Pembrok . 1139 1 Gilb. de Calre . 1149 2 R●c . de Clare , sirnamed Strongbow .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1199 3 Wil. Mar. married Isabel , daughter and heire of Rich Strongbow . 1219 4 Wil. Marsh and L. chiefe Iustice. 1231 5 Ric. Marsh. 1234 6 Gilb. Marsh. 1242 7 Walt. Marsh. 1245 8 Anselm Marsh.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1247 9 William de Valence halfe brother to King Henry the 3 whose wife was daughter of a sister of Ans. Marshall . 1296 10 Aymer de Valence .     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1341 11 Lawrence Hastings , who married the Lady Isabell de Valence . 1348 12 Iohn Hastings . * 1373 13 Iohn Hastings .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1414 14 Humf. D. of Glocester .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1447 15 Wil. de la Pole ; D of Suff.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1452 16 Iasp. of Hatfeild half brother to K. H. 6 , after D. of Bedf. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1468 17 Wil Herbert . * 1469 18 Wil. Herbert .   ✚ ✚ ✚ 1479 19 Edw. Prince of Wales , son of K. Edw. 4.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1532 20 Anne Bolen , Marchionesse . of Pemb. wife of K. H. 8.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1551 21 Wil. Herb. L. Steward , crea . E. of Pemb. by K. Edw. 6. * 1570 22 Hen. Herbert . * 1601 23 Wil. Herb. L. Steward and Chan. of Oxon. * 1630 24 Philip Herb. now E. of Pembrok and Montgom . and L. Chamberlaine , 1641. * PETERBVRGH . OF Peterburgh , as it is an Epi●copall see , we have spoke already and have not much to adde of it , as it hath the title of an Earldom . It standeth in the very nooke or angle of Northampton-shire , where formerly had been a gulfe or whirle poole of exceeding depth : but made firme ground by Wolpher K. of the Mercians , when with great paines and diligence , he laid the foundation of the Church . A Town , but for the Church , of no great note , as standing out of the way for trade and traffick , and seated in no plausible place , whether one look to health or pleasure . Yet by occasion of the Abbey in the former times , and now by reason of the Bishop there ; it drawes resort of people for dispatch of businesse , hath a large marketplace , a faire Parish Church , and 2 handsome streets . Of late unto the Ecclesiasticall relation of it is joyned an honourary , it pleasing he Kings Majesty that now is , to create 1627 Iohn L. Mordant , E. of Peterburgh , 3 Car. March. 9. who now enjoyes that title , Anno 1641. PORTLAND . POrtland , was once a little Island , but now adjoyneth to the mainland of Dorset-shire , lieth full against the good town of Weymouth , and seemes to take th●s name from Port , a noble Saxon , who about the yeare 703 infested and annoyed these Coasts , and made here his station . It is not above 7 miles in compasse , and very scatteringly inhavited ; but plentifull enough of corne , and good for pastures . On the East side it hath a Church on the North a Castle , which seems to guard the entrance of Weymouth haven . But however it was in former times , it is now remarkable , it gave and gives the stile of Earle , 1632 1 Richard Lord Weston , L. high T● created Earle of Portland , Feb. 15. 8 Car. 1635 2 Hier. Weston now E. of Portland , Anno 1641. RICHMOND . RIchmond-shire is no County of it selfe , but a part of York-shire lying towards the North-west , with rugged rocks and swelling mountaines , whose sides in some places beare good grasse , the bottomes underneath not being unfruitfull ; and in the hils themselves are found good mines of lead and pit-coale . The chiefe Town of the whole is Richmond , of a small circuit in the wals , but by reason of the Suburbs lying out in length , very well peopled and frequented . A Town first built by Alane E. of Bretagne , the first E. here , after the entrance of the Normans , who fenced it with a wall and a most strong Castle , the better to assure these parts against the English , and having finished the same according to his own content , gave it the name of Richmount , as a place equally participating of strength and beauty . It standeth on the banks of the river of Swale , which with a mighty noise runneth underneath it : A River reputed very sacred by antient English , for that in it , Paul●nus the first Archb. of ●orke baptized in one day above 100●0 men , besides women and children . The Earles of Bretagne for a long time together continued in the title and possession of this Cou●trey : Since it hath been bestowed upon other Families , who in their severall times have been adorned with the stile of Dukes and Earles of Richmond .   1 Alan the Red , E. of Bretagne . 1093 2 Alan the black , E. of Breta .   3 Steph. E. of Bret. 1104 4 Alan E. of Bret. 1166 5 Conan D. of Bret.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1170 6 Geof . Plantag ▪ son of K. H. 2 , married Const. daught . of Conan . 1186 7 Arthur , the son of Geof .     ✚ ✚ 1201 8 Guido , Visc. of Touars , 2 husband of Constance .     ✚ ✚ ✚   9 Randolph of Chester , 2 husband of Constance .     ✚ ✚ ✚   10 Peter of Dreux , D. of Bret.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1241 11 Pet. of Savoy unckle to Qu. Eleon . wife of H. 3.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1268 12 Iohn de Dreux , D. of Bret. 1305 13 Iohn de Dreux , D. of Bret.   14 Iohn de Bret. E. of Richm. 1334 15 Iohn de Dreux , D. of Bret.   16 Iohn de Montf . D. of Richm.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1341 17 Iohn of Gaunt , after D. of Lanc.     ✚ ✚ ✚   18 Iohn de Montf . sirnamed the valiant , D. of Bret. and E. of Rich.     ✚ ✚ ✚   19 Ralph Nevill , E. of Westm. cr . E. of Rich for term of life . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1425 20 Iohn D. of Bedford . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1452 21 Edm. of Haddam , halfe brother to K. H ▪ 6.   22 Hen. E. of Rich. after K. of Eng.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1525 23 Hen. Fitz-Roy base son of H. 8. D. of Rich. and Somerset , L. Adm. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1613 24 Lodow. D. of Lennox , crea . E. of Richm. 11 Iac. Oct. 9. and after D. of Rich. 1623 , May , L. Stew. RIVERS . THe title of Earle Rivers is of different nature from all the rest of England , those being locall ( that of E. Marsh. excepted ) and this nominall : those taking their denomination from some speciall place , and this from an illustrious Family . The antient name was Redve●s , or de Ripariis , thence it came to Rivers . At first they were but Barons of Plimpton in the County of Devon ; after they came to bee Earles of Devonsh . which title 8 of them enjoyed successively , and then the masculine issue failing , the name and patrimony both were lost amongst the females or heires generall . From some of these , as I conjecture , came S. Rich. Woddeville , whom first K. H. 6. advanced unto the honourable title of L Rivers , and after Edw. 4. marrying his daughter , advanced him higher , and made him E. Rivers . Which title ending in the 3 E. of this name and Family , was since again revived in the honourable houses of Darcy and Savage , this last deriving a descent hereto by the line of Worcester , & Huntington , from one of the daught . and coheires of the first E. Rivers , whom and his successors take in order , thus 1466 1 Rich Woodville , L. Tr. and L. Con. father of Qu. Eliz. wife of Edw. 4 1469 2 Ant. Wood. 1483 3 Rich. Wood.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1626 4 Tho. L. Darcy Visc. Colch . cr . E. ●●vers . 2 Car. Nov. 4. 1639 5 Iohn Savage , son of Tho. Visc : Sav. and Eliz. his wife , eldest daught . and one of the coheires of Tho. E. Riv. by vertue of a speciall entaile in the said creation , succeeded him in the titles of Earle Rivers , and Visc. Colchester , is now living , 1641. RVTLAND . RVtland , for quantity , is the least Country of Eng. for quality not inferior to the very best , as being a pleasant and fruitfull Countrey , especially about the vale of Catmosse . The earth thereof is generally very red of colour , so red that even the fleeces of the ●heep are coloured with it ; in which regard it had the name of Rudland ▪ the Saxons calling that Rud , which we now call Red , as we retaine the use of Ruddy still , in the selfe-same sence . Heretofore it was reckoned for a part of Northampton-sh . not made a County till of late ; and now again is laid unto Northampton-sh ▪ the better to make up a Diocesse for the see of Peterburgh . It contineth in it but 48 Parish Churches in the whole ; the chiefe of which are Vppingham and Oakham , two small market towns , of which the last is the shire town for the Assises , Sessions , and all publique businesses . Yet small and little though it be , can shew the seats and titles of 4 Parliamentary Barons ; and besides that hath honored many a noble person with the name and title of Earles of Rutland . 1390 1 Edw. Planta . eldest son of Edm. of Langley D. of York . *     ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Edm. Plantage . 2 son of Rich. D. of York .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1525 3 Tho. Mannours , L. Roos descended by the La Anne his mother from the said Rich D. of York , cr . E. of Rutland by K. H. 8. * 1543 4 Hen. Man. * 1563 5 Edw. Man. * 1586 6 Iohn Mann . 1587 7 Rog. Man. 1612 8 Franc. Man. 1632 9 Geor. Man. 1641 41 Iohn Man. now Earle of Rutland , 1641. SALISBVRY . SAlisbury is the chiefe City of Wil●sh . antiently called Sorbio●unum , which name it held untill the entrance of the Saxons , who gave new names and laws to all parts of Eng. ●t was at first seated high upon an hill , as being a place designed for strength and war , yet honored for a while with a Bishops see , and a faire Cathedrall . But the Bishops and the Clergy finding no good quarter amongst the Souldiers , which were there in garrison , and being destitute of water on so dry an hill ; about the time of Rich. 1 , began to leave it , and plant themselves down lower by the water side . Being once setled there , and raising a new Minster for Gods publike service , the people also followed after , and left old Sarum to it self , which in short space became so totally deserted , that now the ruines of it are hardly visible . But for new Salisbury , that grew up presently into great renown , plea●antly seated on the river , which watreth every street thereof , and for the populousnesse of the place , plenty of provision , a spacious market place , and a faire Townhall , is esteemed to be the second City of all this Tract . And which addes no small lustre to it , a place that hath been very fortunate in those eminent persons , on whom the Kings of England have bestowed the title of Earles of Salisbury .   1 Patrick d'Evreux . 1168 2 Wil. d'Ev.     ✚ ✚ ✚   3 Wil. Long-espee , base son of K. H : 2 who married Ella , daughter of Wil. d● Ev. 1225 4 Wil. Long-espee .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1333 5 Wil. de Montacute . * 1343 6 Wil. de Mont. 1396 7 Iohn de Mont. 1400 8 Tho. de Mont. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1428 9 Rich. Nevill , who married Eleanor daughter of Th. Mont. L. Ch. * 1460 10 Rich. Nevill , E. of Warwick . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1472 11 Geo. D. of Clarence , who married Isab. daugh . of Rich. E. of War. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1477 12 Edw. eldest son of K. Rich. 3. and Anne , the 2 daugh . of Rich. Nev.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1514 13 Marg. daugh . of Geo. D. of Clar. cr . Countesse of Salis● . by K. H. 8.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1605 14 Rob. Cecil , Visc , Cranborn , cr . E. of Salisb. 3 Iac. May 4 , L. Tr. * 1612 15 Wil. Cecil now E. of Salisbury , and Captain of the Pensioners , 1641. * SHREWSBVRY . SHrewsbury is the principall town in Shropshire , called by our Ancestors the Saxons Scrobbesbyrig , for that it was of old a very thicket of shrobs . A place that rose out of the ruines of old Vriconium , seated not far off ; but grew not into any great request till the Norman Conquest . The town stands nea●ly on a hill , and is almost incompassed round by the river Severn : that part thereof which is not fenced by the River , being fortified with a very strong Castle built by Roger de Montgomery , the first E. hereof . A faire and goodly Town it is , well traded and frequented by all sorts of people both Welch & Eng. by reason of the trade of cloth , and other merchandise ; this being the common mart or empory between Wales & Eng. It standeth in the very midst or center , as it were , of the whole County , which generally is inferiour unto none about it , for delight and plenty ; and for the number of Townes and Castles ' standing exceeding thick on every side ( as having formerly been a frontier-Country ) very far above them . It belonged antiently to the Cornavii , and presently on the Norman Conquest , was bestowed on Roger de Montgom . whom before I spake of , who and his successors , and since them the honorable Family of the Talbots , enjoyed the stile and title of Earles of Shrewsbury . 1067 1 Rog. de Montgomery . 1093 2 Hugh de Montg . 1098 3 Rob. de Montg .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1442 4 Iohn Talbot Marsh. of France , cr . E. of Shrewsbury by K. H. 6. * 1453 5 Iohn Talbot , L. Tr. * 1460 6 Iohn Talbot . 1473 7 Geo. Talbot . * 1541 8 Francis Talbot . * 1559 9 Geo Talbot . * 1590 10 Gilb. Talbot . * 1616 11 Edw. Talbot . 1618 12 Geor. Talbot . 1630 13 Iohn Talbot , now E. of Shrewsbury , 1641. SOMERSET . SOmersetsh . antiently was inhabited by the Belga . A Country of a fertile soyle , hoth for corne and pasture , exceeding populous ●as comprehending in the whole 385 Parish Churches , whereof 33 are market towns ) & furnished also with commodious havens for trade and traffick . A Country howsoever pleasant in the Summer season ; yet in the Winter time so deep & miery , that it is scarce passable ; from whence the people have a proverb , that it is bad for the Rider , but good for the abider . Yet in some parts the●eof , those specially which are towards Wiltsh . it is both hilly and stony ; but in the bowels of those hils , particularly in those of Mendip , they find rich veines of lead , to the great enriching of the Country , and benefit to all the Kingd . It took this name from Somerton , once the most famous and considerable in all the County , now a small market Town of no note nor credit , but for a faire of Cattell which is kept there yearely ; in which respect Ass●rius calls it , Comitatum Somertunensem , or Somertonsh . But by the name of Somerset it is now best known , and by that name hath given the honorary title of Dukes , and Earles to   1 Wil. de de Mohun , E.     ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Wil. Long-espee , E. of Salisb. and Somerlet .     ✚ ✚ ✚   3 Reginald de Mohun .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1396 4 Iohn Beaufort eldest son of Iohn of Gaunt by his 3 wife , E. 1409 5 Henry Beauf. 1419 6 Iohn Beauf. D. of Somer . 1442 7 Edm Beauf. E. and D. 1454 8 Hen. Beauf. D. 1462 9 Edm. Beauf.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1499 10 Edm. 3 son of K. H. 7.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1525 11 Hen. Fitz-Roy , base son of K. H. 8. D. of Somer . & Rich.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1546 12 Edw. Seym , L. Pro. of K. E. 6. D.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1614 13 Rob. Carre , Visc. Rochester , cr . E of Somer . 12 Iac. now living , 1641. SOVTHAMPTON . SOuthampton is the 2 Town of Hamp-shire , in bignesse and circuit , but not inferiour to the first for wealth and riches . A Towne commodiously seated on an arme of the sea , and capable of ships of burden to the very Keie ; the opportunity whereof hath made it very faire and populous , as having in it 5 Churches for Gods publique service , fenced with strong wals and a double ditch , and to secure the haven with a right strong Castle , which now time hath ruined . It standeth on the banks of the river of Anton , ( which rising about Andover , runs here into the Sea ) from whence it had the name of Southampton and by that name hath given denomination to the whole Countrey , though generally it be called Hamp-shire . A Country rich in all commodities , both of sea and land , and in the upper parts thereof , those which are farthest from the sea , of a very pure and excellent aire . It conteines in it 253 Parishes , many of which have Chappels of ease as big as Parish ▪ besids those in the Isle of Wight , which is reckoned for a part of Hantshire . To return back unto the Town , which though it bee within the County , yet is a County in it self ( for which it stands beholding to K. H. 6. ) And both before and since hath been counted worthy to be the highest honourary title of Dukes , and Earles to 1067 1 Beauvois of Hampton , that famous Soldier so much talked of .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1●27 2 William Fitz-Williams , Lord Adm. *   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1547 3 Thomas Wriothe●●ey , Lord Chancellour , created Earle of South . by K. Edw. 6. * 1550 4 Henry Wriothesley . 1581 5 Henry Wriothesley . * 1624 6 Thomas Wriothesley now Earle , 1641. STAFFORD . STaffordsh . apperteined antiently to the Cornubii , a potent people in these parts , which afterwards by Beda , were called Angli mediteranei , or the midland Englishmen . A Countrey on the north part full of hils , and woods ; on the South , stored with coales and mines of iron ; and in the middle part where it is watred with the Trent , bravely adorned with meadows , & faire fields of corn . It conteineth in it 120 villages with Parish Churches , the City , or Episcopal see of Lichfeild , & 12 other market Towns , of which the chief is Staff. on the river of Owe ; the head Town of the shire , which from thence taketh name . A Town exceedingly beholding to the Barons of Staf. who were once Lords hereof and were hence denominated : who both procured it to be made a Burrough , with ample priviledges , by K. Iohn , and also fenced it with a wall , save where it was secured by a large poole of water on the East and North. And on the other side , the Town by way of thankfull retribution , honored that noble Family with the stile of E. who were from hence entituled in their severall ages , Earles , & Lords and Visc. of Stafford . 1353 1 Ralph Stafford , E. * 1372 2 Hugh Staff. 1383 3 Tho. Staff.   4 Wil. Staff.   5 Edm. Staff. * 1403 6 Hen. Staff , D. of Bucking . * 1444 7 Hum. Staff E. 1460 8 Hen. Staff. D. of Buck. * 1486 9 Edw. Staff. D. of Buck. * 1521 10 Hen. Staff. L.   11 Edw. Staff. L.   12 Hen. Staff. L. who dying An. 1639 the Family of the Staffords died also with him , and is quite extinguished . 1640 13 Wil. How. Knight of the Bath , 2 son of Tho. E. of Arundel and Surrey , having to wife a sister of the last L. Staff. was by his Majesty now being cr . Visc. Staff. in Nov. 1640 , and is now living , Anno 1641. STAMFORD . STamford is the hithermost Town of Lincoln-sh . seated upon the river W●lland , by which it is there parted from Northampton-sh . It standeth in that part thereof , which is called Kesteven , of which it is the principall town A town well peopled and of great resort , conteining about 7 Parish Churches . But that wh●ch gives it most renown , is that upon some quarrell and contention between the Southern and Northern men in the Vniversity of Oxford , the Scholle●s in the reign of King Edw. 3 removed hither , and here held publiqueschooles of al sorts of learning . Nor did they leave the place , or return again , untill they were commanded so to do by the Kings Proclamation , and thereupon it was ordeined in the Vniversity , that the ●chollers in the taking of their degrees , should make oath , not to reade publiquely at Stamford , to the prejudice of Oxford . Neverthelesse the Town still flourished in trade and merchandise , and doth now give the title of an Earle to 1628 Hen. L. Grey of Groby , cr E. of Stamf. 3 Car. March. 26 , now living . Anno 1641. STRAFFORD . STrafford , or Strasforth is the name of a Wapontake , or hundred , in the West-riding of York-shire , and lieth on the South therof , where it abutteth on the Counties of Nottingham and Darby . A territory of a large extent , conceived to be almost as big , as the whole County of Rutland , and in it comprehending the good towns of Sheafeld , Rotheram , Doncaster , and the honour of Tickhil , besides many smaller Villages and Hamlets . The antient Family of the Wentworths , out of which cometh the Earle of Cleveland , have long flourished here , and have their seate at Wentworth-Wood house , and many a faire and large possession in this Wapontake . In which consideration , it was selected purposely for the highest title of 1639 Tho. Visc Wentworth , L. Newmerch and ●versley , and L. Deputy of Ireland , cr . E. of Stafford and Baron of Raby , with great solemnity at Whitehall , 15 Car. Ian 12 , and shortly after L. Lieut. of Ireland . SVffolk was antiently part of the Iceni , and afterwards together with Cambridg-sh . and Norfolk , made up the Kingdome of the East Angles , of which this being the Southerne part gave to the Count. and the people both the name of Southfolk . A very large and spacious countrey , conteining 575 Parish . Chur. of the which 28 are market townes , with many a safe and capacious haven . Of those the most remarkable towards the sea , is Ipswich , a very faire and spacious town , well peopled and well traded too : adorned with 14 Churches for the service of God , & many a faire ▪ and goodly edifice for private use . That of most credit in the Island is Bury , or S. Edmundsbury , heretofore famous for the Abbey , valued at the suppression at 2336l . 16 s. per ann . a fine neat town , and much inhabited by the Gentry , who resort thither from all parts of the Countrey . As for the Coun. it selfe it sheweth in every place most rich & goodly fields of corne , with grounds as battaille and rich for the feeding of Cattell , wherof there is good plenty out of question , as may appeare by the great store of cheese here made and vented to the great commodity of the inhabitants , not only into all parts of Eng. but Spain , France and Germany . Long time it was , before the title of Suffolk was conferred on any . But when the Gapp was opened once , it hath been severally conferred on several Families , who as they stood in grace and favour with their Princes , attained the titles of Dukes , Marq. and Earles of Suffolk . 1335 1 Rob. de Vsford , E. * 1369 2 Wil ▪ de Vsford . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1385 3 Mich. de la Pole , L. Ch. 1389 4 Mich. de la Pole. 1414 5 Mich. de la Pole.   6 Wil. de la Pole , first E. after Mar. & at last D. of Suff. * 1450 7 Iohn de la Pole , D. * 1491 8 Edm. de la Pole , E. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1513 9 Char. Brandon , D. of Suff. L. great Master . * 1545 10 Hen. Brandon .     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1551 11 Hen. Grey , Marq ▪ Dorset , married Frances daugh . of Ch. Brandon , and was D. of Suff. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1603 12 Tho. L. How. of Walden , cr . E. of Suff. 1 Iac. Iuly 21 , L. Tr. and Ch. of Camb * 13 Theo. How. E. of Suff. and L. Warden of the cinque Ports . * 1640 14 Iames L. How. now E. 1641. SVNDERLAND . SVnderland is a demy-Island in the North-East part of the Bishoprick of Durham , over against the mouth of the river of Were ; which being pulled a sunder from the land , by the force of the Sea , hath the name of Sunderland A place of no great note or reputation , till it was made the title of 1627 Emanuel Lord Scrope of Bolton and Lord President of the North , created Earle of Sunderland , 3 Car. Iun. 19. Mort sans issue . SVRREY . SVrrey and Sussex antiently were inhabited by the Regni , and afterwards made up the Kingdome of the South-Saxons . This lieth on the South of the river Thames , whence it had the name ; the Saxons calling that Rea , which we call a River : and so from Sutbrea , came the name of Surrey . A Countrey on the outward parts thereof very rich and fruitfull , especially on that side which is towards the Thames , where it yeelds plenty both of corne and grasse ; but in the middle part , somewhat hard and barren . From whence the people use to say , that their Countrey is like a course peece of cloth , with a fine list . And yet the middle parts thereof what they want in riches , they supply with pleasures , as being famous for good aire , and well stored with parks ; the downes affording excellent opportunity aswell for horse-races , as hunting . A Country finally it is of no great quantity . and ye● conteines 140 Parishes ( of the which 8 are market townes ) and amongst them the Royall mansions of Richmond , Otelands and Non●-such . The chiefe town of the whole is Guilford , a fine neat town , seated on the declining of an hill toward the river Mole , consisting of 3 Parish Churches ; which notwithstanding never gave title unto any , of Lord , Earle of higher . But that defect hath beene supplied by the whole body of the County , in the name of Surrey , with which our Kings have dignified these Dukes and Earles .   1 Wil. de Warren , E. 1088 2 Wil. de War. 1138 3 Wil. de War.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1148 4 Wil. de Blois son of K. Steph. first husband of Isa. de War.   ✚ ✚ ✚ 1164 5 Hameline Planta . base son of Geo. E. of Anjou , and halfe brother to K. H. 3 , 2 husband of Isa. de War. 1202 6 Wil , Plantag . 1240 7 Iohn Plantag . 1305 8 Iohn Plantag . died 1347.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1347 9 Rich. Fitz-Alan , E. if Arund ▪ son of Alice , sister and heire of Ioh. Plantag . 1375 10 Rich. Fitz-Alan , L. Tr.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1398 11 Tho. Holland , E. of Kent , and D. of Surrey . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1461 12 Iohn L. Mowb. son of Iohn Lord Mow. D. of Nor. aft . D. of Norf. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1475 13 Rich. 2 son of K. Edw. the 4 , D of York , and Norf. & E. of Sur. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1483 14 Tho. How. L. Tr. aft . D. of Norf. * 1514 15 Tho. How. L. Tr. & D. of Nor. * 1554 16 Tho. How. E. Marshall and D. of Norf died 1572. * 1604 17 Tho. How. grand●son of Tho. D. of Norf. now E. of Arund . and Sur. and E. Marsh , 1641. * SVSSEX . SVssex is th● other part of the old possessions of the Regnians after that of the South-Saxons , from whom it took the name of Suths●x . A Country that lyeth all along the Ocean in a goodly length , extending East and West above 60 miles ; and yet for all so long a Coast hath very few havens , the shore being full of rocks and shelves , and the wind impetuous . The Northerne parts towards Kent & Surrey are well shaded with woods , as was all the Country heretofore , untill the Iron works consumed them . The Souther●e parts which are towards the sea , lying upon a chalke or marle , yeeld co●e abundantly ; with a delightfull intermixture of groves and meadows . It conteines in it to the number of 312 Parishes , of which 18 are market towns . And amongst these the chief of note is Chichester , of which we need say nothing here ▪ having spoke of it its proper place , amongst the Bishopricks . It now rests only that I giv● you a compendious Catalogue of the Earles of Sussex .   ● Wil. de Albeney , E. of Arundell . 1178 2 Wil. de Alb. 1191 3 Wil. de Alb. 1199 4 Wil. de Alb. 1224 5 Hugh de Alb.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1243 6 Iohn Plantag . E. of Surrey . 1305 7 Iohn Plantag . E. of Sur.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1529 8 Rob. Radclyffe , vis● . Fitz-Walter , cr . E. of Sussex by K. H. 8. 1542 9 Hen. Rad. ✚ 1559 10 Tho. Rad. L. Ch. ✚ 1583 11 Hen. Rad. ✚ 1593 12 Rob. Rad. ✚ 1630 13 Edw. Rad. now E. of Sussex , 〈◊〉 1641. THANET . THanet is a little Island in the North-East of Kent , environed on 3 parts by the sea , & towards the West , severed from the main-land of Kent , by the river of Stoure , which is here called Yenlade . An Island by Solinus called Athanatos , in some copies Thanatos ; from whence the Saxons had their Thanet , famous as in other things , so in these particulars , that it was here the Sax. landed when they came first for Britani ; and that S. Austin the Monk here landed also , when he brought the Gospel to the Saxons . The whole about 8. m. in . leng . and 4 in brea . was reckoned then to hold about 600 Families : and is now very populous for the bignesse , and very plentiful withall of all commodities necessary , but of cor● especially . The people generally are a kind of Amphibii , and get their livings both by sea and land , being well skilled according to the year , aswel in stearing of a ship at sea , as holding of the plough at land ▪ & in both courses notably industrious . Such is the Isle of Tha●et , which was to late times made the title of an Earldome , in the persons of 1628 1 Nico. L. Tufton . cr . E. of Thanet , 4. Car. Aug. 5.   2 Iohn Tuf . E. of Thanet now living Anno , 1641. TOTNES . TOtnes is a Town in the Southwest of Devonshire , situate on the banks of the River of Dert , about 6 miles from its influxe into the Sea. An antient little Town it is , and standeth on the fall of an hill , lying East and West . It hath a Major for the chiefe Magi●trate , and so hath had ever since the time of K. Iohn ; and being a burrough town withall , hath a vote in Parliament . The greatest reputation which it had in the former times , was that it gave the title of an Arch-deacon , to one of 4 Arch-deacons of the Diocesse of Exeter , who is hence called Arch-deacon of Totnes , And by that name George Carew , D●ctor in Divinity ( after Deane of Windsore , &c. ) subscribes the Acts of Convocation , A●●● 1536. which possibly may be the reason , why 162● George L. Carew of Clopton , son of the said George , desired , as hee enjoyed , the title of E. of Totnes , unto the which he was advanced , 1 Car. Feb. Mort ●a●●s issue . WARWICK . WArwickshire heretofore was part of the Cornavii , a Country which for aire and soyle , wants nothing for the profit or pleasure of man. It is divided into two parts by the river . Avon , that on the South side being cald the Feldon , which yeelds good store of corn , and grasse , and makes a lovely prospect from the neighbouring hils ; that on the North being called the Woodland , from the great plenty of woods which grew here formerly , but now grown thin enough by the making of iron . It conteineth in it 158 Parishes and market towns ; of which the chief 〈◊〉 one exclude Coventry as a County of it selfe ) is that of Warwick , called by the Romans antiently Praesidium , from the garrison there , which name it still retaines in a different language . A town adorned with very faire houses , a strong and well compact stone bridge on the river Avon , and two goodly Churches : But the chief beauty of it heretofore , as now , is a most stately and magnificent Castle ; which as it was of late repaired at the great cost and charges of Sir Fulk Grevill , the late L. Broks , who therein dwelt ; so was it anti●ntly the seat and abiding place of the Dukes and Earles of Warwick . 1067 1 Hen. de Newburgh , E. 1123 2 Rog. de New. 1153 3 Wil. de New. 1183 4 Waleran de New. 1200 5 Hen. de New. 1233 6 Tho. de New.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1242 7 Iohn Marsh. first husb . of Margery sister and heire of Tho. de New. 1243 8 Iohn de Plessetis , 2 husband of the said Margery .     ✚ ✚ ✚   9 Wale . de New. uncle and heire of the said Margery .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1262 10 Wil. Mauduit , son of Alice sister & heire of Waleran .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1268 ●1 Wil. Beauchamp , son of the La. Isa ▪ sister and heire of Wil. Maud. 1291 12 Guido Beauch . 1315 13 Tho. Beau. E. Marsh. ✚ 1369 14 Tho. Beau. ✚ 1401 15 Rich. Beau. Regent of Fr. ✚ 1439 16 Hen. Beau. D. of Warw.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1446 17 Rich. Nevill , who married Anne , sister of Hen. D. of Warw.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1471 18 Geo. D. of Clarence , who married Anne , daughter of Rich. Nevill , E. of Warw. 1478 19 Edw. Plantag . son of George D. of Clarence .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1547 20 Iohn Dudley , Visc , Lis. descended from the Lady Margaret , daughter of Rich. Beauchamp , E. of Warw. ✚ 1562 21 Amb. Dudley .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1618 22 Robert L Rich of Leeze , created Earle of Warwick , 16 Iac. Aug. 2.   23 Rob. Rich , now living , 1641. WESTMORLAND . WEstmorland was a part of the possessions of the old Brigantes , and lyeth on the West of York●sh . from whence and from the Mores , as they call them here ( that is , those barren heathy grounds , which are not tractable for corn ) it was named West-more-land . The ayre accounted sharp and piercing ; the soyle in most parts barren and unprofitable ; yet in the Vales , which are neither large nor man● , indifferently fruitfull . So that the greatest profit and commodity , which here the people make unto themselves , is by the benefit and trade of cloathing . It containes in it only 26 Parishes , which plainly shews that either the Countrey is not very populous , or that the Parishes are exceeding large , as ge●erally indeed they are , in these Northerne parts ; 4 of those 26 are market towns , the chiefe of which next Kendale ( which wee ●pake of formerly ) is called Appleby , and passeth for the shire town or head of the Countie . The Viponts antiently , and by them the ●lyffords were the hereditary Sherifs hereof ; which notwithstanding ▪ it pleased K. R. 2 , to adde unto the titles of the Nevils of Raby , the higher and more eminent stile of Earles of Westmorland . 1398 1 Ralph Nevill , L ▪ of Raby , E. Marsh. 1425 2 Ralph Nevill . 1484 3 Ralph Nevill .   4 Ralph Nevill . ✚ 1523 5 Hen. Nevill . 1564 6 Charles Nevill .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1624 7 Francis Fane , eldest son of Mary La. Despencer , descended from the Nevils E. of Westmorland , cr . E. of Westmorland , 22 Iac. Dec. 29. 1628 8 Mild may Fane , now E. of Westmorland , 1641. WILTSHIRE . WIltsh , belonging to the Relgae in the former times , took this new name from Wilton , once the chief town of it ; like as it of the river Willy , on the which it standeth . A region which as it breeds a race of hardy men , who in old time , with those of Devonsh . & Cornwal , chalenged the seconding of the main battaille in our Eng. armies ; so is it very plentifull and fruitfull , and withall very pleasant and delightsome . The middle parts thereof , which they call the Plaines , are most scant of corne ; but those plaines being large and spacious , & reaching round about to the horizon , do feed innumerable flocks of sheep , which bring as great commodity to the inhabitants by their fleece & wool , and the most gainefull trad of cloathing , as other parts that are more fertile . It contei●eth in it 304 Parish ▪ & is traded in 19 market towns ; the chiefe and fairest are Salisbury and Marlborough , which before we spake of . Wilton was formerly the principall , & here●ofore a Bishops see , honored with the residence of 9 severall Bishops : But by translating of the see of Salisbury , and carrying thi●her therewithal the throughfare into the West countrey , which before was here , it fel by little and little to decay , and is now hardly worth the reputation of a poor market town , yet still it gives denomination to the Country : as that the stile and honor to these Earles of Wiltshire . 1397 1 Wil. L. Scrope L. Tr. ✚     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1458 2 Iam. Butler , E. of Ormod , & L. T. ✚     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1470 3 Iohn Stafford 2. son on Humf. D of Buck. ✚ 1473 4 Edw. Staff. died , 1499. 1510 5 Hen Staff. 2 son of Hen. D. of Buck.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1529 6 Tho. Bollen , Visc. Rochf . father of the La. Anne Bollen .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1550 7 Wil. Pawlet , cr . after Mar. of Winchester , Anno 5. Edw. 6. 1571 8 Iohn Paw . 1576 9 Wil. Paw . 1598 10 Wil. Paw . 1628 11 Iohn Paw . now Marq. of Winche . and E. of Wiltsh . Anno 164● . WINCHELSEY . WInchelsey is a sea Town in the East part of Sussex , where it adjoyneth upon Kent , accounted by a general error to be open of the Cinq Ports ; whereas indeed it is no Cinq port , but a member of them , as ●hi● and Feversham , and others are . A Towne in former times of great strength and beauty , inclosed with strong wals , and a well placed Rampier , for the defence thereof against forreign force : but the sea-shrinking from it by little and litle , brought the town by the like degrees into great decay , though still it beare the shew of a handsome town , and hath a Blockhouse for defence raised by H. ● . But what it lost i● wealth , it hath got in honour , being advanced unto the reputation of an Earld . in the names and persons of 1628 1 Eliz. Finch . Visc. Maidstone , cr , C. of Winchel . 4. Car. Iuly 11. 1634 2 Hen. Finch , son of the said Eliz. 1639 3 Henneage Finch , E. of Winchelsey now living , 1641. WINCHESTER . WInch . is the chief City of H●●psh . & heretofore the seat Royal of the West-Saxon K. By Antonine and P●olomy called Venta Belgarum ; and then accounted the prime City of all the Belgae , out of which Venta , adding ceaster to it , ( according to their wonted manner ) the Saxons hammered their Vent-ceaster , and we our Winchester . In these our dayes , it is indifferently wel peopled , and frequented , commodiou●ly seated in a Valley betweene high steep hils , by which it is de●ended from cold and wind . It lyeth daintily on the banks of a pleasant river , str●tching somewhat in length from East to West , and conteineth about a mile and a halfe within the wals , besides ▪ the suburbs ; but much within the wals is desolate and altogether unbuilt . Many things certainly thereare which may conduce unto the reputation of it , especially a beautifull and large Cathedrall , a goodly and capacious Palace for the Bishops dwelling , which they call Wolvescy house ; a strong and gallant Castle bravely mounted upon an hill , with brave command on all the Countrey ; a pretty neat Colledge neare the wals , built and endowed by Wil. of Wickham , for a seminary to his other in Oxford ; and not far off a very faire Hospitall , which they call Sain● Crosses . And yet lest all this might not raise it high enough , our English Monarchs have thought fit to dignifie these following persons with the stile and title of Marq. and Earles of Winchester . 1207 1 Sa●r de Quincy , E. 1220 2 Rog. de Qum . died 1264.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1322 3 Hugh Despencer , 1326.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1472 4 Lewys de Bruges .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1551 5 Wil. Pawler , E. of Wiltsh . and L. Tr. cr . Marq. of Winch. by K. Edw. 6. 1571 6 Iohn Paw . 1576 7 Wil. Paw . 1598 8 Wil. Paw . 1528 9 Iohn Paw . now Marq. of Winchest . and E. of Wiltsh . Anno 1641. WOrcestersh . is a part of the Cornavii , once a great nation in these parts . A Coun. of an aire so temperate , and a soyle so fortunate , that it gives place to none about her , for health and plenty . Abundant certeinly it is in all kinds of fruits , and of peares especially ; wherewith , besides the use they have of them for the table , they make a bastard kind of wine , which they here call Pirry , which they both sell and drink in great abundance . Salt-pits it also hath in some parts thereof , and about Powyck , and many places else good store of Cherries : and every where well watred with delicious rivers , which afford great variety of fish . A Country of no great extent for length and compasse , as not conteining above 152 Parish Churches , and amongst them 10 market towns . Of these the principall is Worcester , and gives denomination to the whole . A City delectably seated on the banks of Severne ( which runneth quite through the County from North to South ) ever which it hath a faire bridg with a tower upon it : and thence arising with a gentle ascent , affordeth to the upper parts , a very goodly prospect in the vale beneath . A City every way considerable , whether you looke upon it in the situation , or in the number of its Churches , or the faire neat houses , or finally on the inhabitants , which are both numerous and wealthy , by reason of their trade of cloathing , which doth there flourish very much . Of the Cathed ▪ here we have spoke before , and of the Castle we shall now say nothing , as having nothing left of it but the name and ruines . All we shall adde is a briefe Nomenclature of The Earles of Worcester . 1144 1 Wal●ran . de Beaumont .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1397 2 Tho. Percy , L. Adm.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1420 3 Rich. Bea●champ .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1450 4 Iohn Tiptoft , L. Tr. and L. Con. 1471 5 Edw. Tiptoft .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1514 6 Char. Somer . L. Ch. cr . E. of Worcester by K. H. 8. ✚ 1526 7 Hen. Som. L. Herb.   8 Wil. Somerset . 1589 9 Edw. Som. Master of the House , & L. Privy S●ale . ✚ 1627 10 Hen. Som. now living , Anno 1641. YORK . YOrk-shire is past all peradventure the greatest County in England , conteining 70 miles in length from North to South , and 80 miles in bredth from West to East ; the circuit being above 300. In this great quantity of ground , are not above 563 Parish Churches , w●ich is no great number , but then withall there are great plenty of Chappels of Ease , equall for bignesse and resort of people , to any Parish . elsewhere . The soyle is generally fruitfull in a very good measure . If that one part therof by stony and barren ground ; another is as fertile and as richly adorned with corne and pasturage : If here you find it naked and destitute of woods ▪ in other places you shal find it shadowed with most spacious forrests : If it be somwhere moorish , mirie and unpleasant ; elsewhere it is as beauteous and delightsome as the eye can wish . It is divided ordinarily into 3 parts , which according to the quarters of the world are called East-Riding , West-Riding , and North-Riding ; Richmondsh . ●omming in to make up the 4 , which is a part of York-sh . as before was said . The whole was antiently possessed by the Brigantes , who were diffused all over those Northerne parts , beyond the Trent ; and for their capitall City had Eboracum , seated upon the river Vre which we now call Ouse ) in the Westriding of this County ; and by a later Saxon name is now called York . This is the 2 City of all Eng. both for fame and greatnesse ; A pleasant large and stately place , well fortified & beautifully adorned , as well with private as publike edifices , and rich and populous withall ; Seated ( as e●st was said ) on the river Ouse , which cutteth it , as it were , in twaine ; both parts being joyned together with a faire stone bridge , consisting of high and mighty Arches . A City of great fame in the Roman times , and of as eminent reputation in all Ages since ; and in the severall turnes and changes , which have befallen this Kingdome under the Saxons , Danes and Normans , hath still preserved i●s antient lustre . Adorned it was with an Archiepiscopall see in the times of the Britans ; nor stooped it lower when the Saxons●eceived ●eceived the Faith. Rich. 2. laying unto it a little territory on the Westside therof , made it a County of it selfe , in which the Archbishops of York enjoy the rights of Palatines . And for a further lustre to it , H. ● . ap . pointed here a Councell for the governance of the Northern parts , consisting of a L. Pre. certaine Councellors , a Secretary and other Officers . And yet in none of these hath York been more fortunate , than that it adorned so many Princes of the Imperiall line of Germany and bloud Royall of England , with the stile and attribute of Dukes and Earls of York . 1190 1 Otho of Baveria E. of York .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1385 2 Edm. of Langley 5 son of K. Edw. 3 E. of Camb ▪ and D. of York . ✚ 1401 3 Edw. Planta . son of Edm. of Lang. E. of Rutl. and D. of York . ✚ 1426 4 Rich. Planta . nephew of Edm. of Lang. by his son Rich. E. of Cam. D. of York . ✚ 1474 5 Rich. of Shrews . 2 son of K. Edw. 4. D. of York . ✚ 1495 6 Hen. 2 son of K. H. 7. after K. of E● . 1604 7 Char. 2 son of K. Iames , now the 2 Monarch of Gr. Brit. ✚ 1633 8 Iames , 2 son of K. Charles , declared D. of York , by his Royall Father , and so instituted , but not yet created . FINIS . 
A43537	----	A help to English history containing a succession of all the kings of England, the English Saxons, and the Britans : the kings and princes of Wales, the kings and lords of Man, the Isle of Wight : as also of all the dukes, marquesses, earls, and bishops thereof : with the description of the places from whence they had their titles : continued with a supplement, and enlarged with the names and ranks of the viscounts and barons to the year 1652. Heylyn, Peter, 1600-1662. 1652 Approx. 685 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 203 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2007-10 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A43537 Wing H1715 ESTC R18930 12171628 ocm 12171628 55415 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A43537) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 55415) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 603:3) A help to English history containing a succession of all the kings of England, the English Saxons, and the Britans : the kings and princes of Wales, the kings and lords of Man, the Isle of Wight : as also of all the dukes, marquesses, earls, and bishops thereof : with the description of the places from whence they had their titles : continued with a supplement, and enlarged with the names and ranks of the viscounts and barons to the year 1652. Heylyn, Peter, 1600-1662. [2], 379, [59] p. Printed for Abel Roper ..., London : 1652. Each part of each table has special t.p. A supplement, p. [2]-[59] at end. First published in 1641 with title: Heroologia Anglorum, or, An help to English history. Reproduction of original in Bodleian Library. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. Gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. EEBO-TCP is a partnership between the Universities of Michigan and Oxford and the publisher ProQuest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by ProQuest via their Early English Books Online (EEBO) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). The general aim of EEBO-TCP is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic English-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in EEBO. 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Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor. The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines. Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Church of England -- Bishops -- Chronology. Nobility -- Great Britain -- Chronology. Great Britain -- Kings and rulers -- Chronology. 2005-11 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2005-12 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2006-11 Ali Jakobson Sampled and proofread 2006-11 Ali Jakobson Text and markup reviewed and edited 2007-02 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion A HELP TO ENGLISH HISTORY CONTAINING A succession of all the Kings of England , the English Saxons , and the Britans ; the Kings and Princes of Wales , the Kings and Lords of Man , the Isle of Wight . AS ALSO Of all the Dukes , Marquesses , Earls , and Bishops thereof , WITH The Description of the places from whence they had their titles ; CONTINVED With a supplement , and enlarged with the names and ranks of the Viscounts and Barons to the year . 1652. LONDON , Printed for Abel Roper at the Sun over against S. Dunstans Church in Fleet-Street . MDCLII . A GENERALL PREFACE , Touching the use of these three Catalogues or Tables . HAving a purpose to peruse our English Histories , and those of forraine Nations which had any intercourse or commerce with the affaires either of this Realme or Church of England : I found it no small trouble to me , to know the names of those , whose actions I encountred within the said perusall . For whereas commonly great persons are not called by the names of their Famllies , but of their Dignities : it was a matter of no meane difficulty to finde out , what and who they were , who were presented to us by their Dignities , as well Ecclesiasticall as Temporall . Upon this ground , to save me from that troublesonie inquirie for the time to come ; I set-my selfe to draw up a complete and perfect Catalogue of all the persons of chiefe ranke in this Realme of England , from Earles inclusively and upwards ; so farre as any light of story , and warrantable ascent , ascent , would direct and guide me . And having formed it in that frame and order , as hereafter followeth , found manifestly that that paines it cost me , was not ill bestowed ; because of that great ease it did me , being once composed . For then no sooner did I meete in any story , with any , either Prince or Prelate , of , or in this Nation ; but I could forth with turne unto him : and by computing of the times , finde out exactly who he was . And yet me thought it was not perfect , till I had added to the same all those Soveraigne Princes , which have borne rule in all or any part hereof : the names and actions of the which occurre , as well in our owne Chronicles , as forraine stories . That done , I thought it not amisse , to note and adde , according as I met it in my course of reading , what Kings and Prelates of this Nation have beene ennobled in the Church with the stile of Saints : as also what great offices any of the Arch-Bishops , Bishops , Dukes , Marquesses , and Earles , had severally borne in the Civill State. By doing which , as I received great ease and benefit , as before is said ; so I was easily intreated to let all such partake thereof , who thinke it may be either profitable or usefull to them : and for that cause have suffered it to come abroad , that they that will , may take the benefit of my poore endeavours . And this I have the rather beene intreated to , satisfie the mindes of those ( if any thing will satisfie them ) that either are the enemies of Regall or Episcopall power . For whereas some conceive that Kings were instituted by the people , on sight perhaps of such confusions as had beene noted and observed in a populan government : these following Catalogues will make it evident and apparent , that in this Countrey there was never any other government then that of Kings either in any part thereof , or the whole together . And whereas it is factiously given out by others , that the Episcopall authority and regiment in and of the Church , is not the proper and peculiar government of the same , but violently obtruded on it by the power of man : the Tables of Episcopall succession will make it evident , that the said forme of Government , is of as long a standing as the Church it selfe ; Religion and Episcopall jurisdiction being brought into this Land together . Lastly , if any such there be , as have beene formerly , that would ●rie downe Nobility , and that precedencie and power which some men have above the rest , they may here see , that from the first setling of this Monarchie in the Norman Race , that Kings of England have advanced to place and dignity , whom they thought most fit ; and did it sans controule of inferiour people . And so they did no question in the Saxons times , and those before them : of which if we have no such cleare and evident succession , as in the rest of later ages ; it is because their digties , and honorarie titles were rather personall then hereditary . Now in these Catalogues , I shall begin , as reason is , with that of Kings , from the first entrance of the Romans to this present time : to which I shall adjoyne the Kings and Princes of Wales , as also the Kings and Lords of Man , and the Isle of Wight : assigning unto every one his time , according to the computation of our best Historians . The Catalogue of the Bishops I shall bring along , from the first planting of Religion here , amongst the Saxons ; since which we have a cleare and undeniable succession in the holy Hierarchy : the former times , under the Empire of the Britons , having transmitted to our hands onely some fragments of antiquity , by which we may perceive that the Episcopall government was here received together with the faith it selfe ; but cannot gather from the same a constant and continued succession of the persons governing . Then for the third Catalogue that of the Nobility , we have continued that from the first entrance of the Normans to this present day ; that at one view a man may see the quality and antiquity of those noble families , which are now both an honour and an ornament to this flourishing Kingdome . I shall not neede say more in this generall Preface , having prefixed particular Prefaces to each severall Catalogue , to which I rather shall referre the Reader , then detaine him here . THE FIRST TABLE , OR , A CATALOGVE OF All the Kings which have reigned in England , since the first entrance of the ROMANS . As Also of the Kings and Princes of Wales , the Kings and Lord of Man , and the Isle of Wight , together with the Princes and Lords of Powys . Printed at London . 1641. THE PREFACE TO THE CATALOGVE Of the KINGS of ENGLAND . THe Realme of England is that Southerne and more flourishing part of the Isle of Britaine : that which was civilized by the Romans , and made a Province of their Empire ; when as the Northerne parts thereof , were either neglected or not conquered . When it was under the command of the Roman Emperours , it wanted not its proper and peculiar Kings , over the chiefest and most principall of their Tribes and Nations : it being the custome of that Empire , as Tacitus hath truely noted , habere servitutis instrumenta etiam Reges . Of these inferiour tributary Kings , those which were in their severall times of more power then others , may probably be thought to have assum'd unto themselves the stile and title of Kings of the Britons : even as in after times , during the heptarchy of the Saxons , those which gave law unto the rest , did call themselves , and were accounted the Kings or Monarchs of the English . But those interiour petite Kings , being , in tract of time worne out , and almost all the South reduced under the immediate command of the Roman Empire : either the Emperours themselves , or such of their Lieutenants as did here usurpe the regall state , were stiled Kings of Britaine , till Constantine the Great united it in separably to the Roman Diadem : And in his ended the first line of the Kings of Britaine , according to the British story . The second line of Kings , beares date from the departure of the Romans : who being called from hence to looke unto their Empire in the Continent , left their possessions here unto the fury of the Scots and Picts , who dwelling in the Northerne and unconquered parts , attempted to subdue the Southerne . For the repressing of whose rage the Britons chose themselves a King out of Armorica , ( now called Bretagne ) being extracted from the old British bloud , which had not long before beene planted in that Region , by the Roman Emperours . Whose line continued here not long , till they were dispossessed both of Crowne and Countrey , by the Saxons , a German people , called in by Vortiger to oppose the Scots and other Nations of the North. Who having by degrees subdued all that which formerly had beene conquered by the Romans ( the Countrey beyond Severne excepted onely ) divided it amongst themselves into seven Kingdomes ; which finally being all brought under by the West-Saxon Kings , did at last settle , and continues in the name of England . A Kingdome , though of small extent , compared unto the greater Countries of France , Spaine , and Germany , yet of so high esteeme abroad , that it may challenge an equality with either of them , and in some kinde hath had precedencie before them . For to the honour of this Realme , as well before as since it had the name of England , we may say thus much . It was the first Kingdome which received the faith of Christ , which was here planted , as it is affirmed by Gildas upon certaine knowledge , toward the latter end of Tiberius Empire . Tempore ut scimus summo , Tiberii Caesaris , as his owne words are : which by computing of the times , will fall to be five yeares before Saint Peter came to Rome ; and but five yeares after the death of our Redeemer . It shewed unto the world the first Christian King , whose name was Lucius : and gave unto the Church her first Christian Emperour , even the famous Constantine here borne ; by whose example and incouragement the saith was generally received over all the Empire , and all the Temples of the Idols , either demolished or forsaken . It also was the first Christian Kingdome , out of which the Jewes , those bitter and most , obstinare enemies of the Crosse of Christ , were universally expulsed ; and out of which the insolent and usurped Supremacie of the Popes of Rome , was first ejected , after they had a long time domineered in the Church of Christ . The one of these performed by King Edward the first ; the other by King Henry the eighth . Nor to say any thing in this place of their warres and victories in France , Spaine , Scotland , the Netherlands , the Isle of cyprus and the Holy land . In these regards , the Kings of England , as they are as absolute , so they are as sacred , as of any Countrey whatsoever . What ever things are proper unto Supreme Majesty , Scepters , and Crownes , the Purple Robe , the Globe , or golden Ball , and Vnction , have beene as long theirs , as any others . The foure first are by Leland , a famous Antiquarie , ascribed unto King Art●ur , who did begin his reigne Anno 506. which was as soone as they were ordinarily : in use with the Roman Emperours . And this doth Leland justifie , out of an ancient Seale of the said King Arthurs kept in his time , as an especiall monument in the Abbie of Westminister : As for their Vnction , or Annointing , it appeares by the old Roman Provinciall , and the ancient practise , that of all the Kings of Christendome , there were none anciently annointed but the two Emperours of the East and West ; the Kings of France , England , Sicilie , and Hiervsalem . By reason of which Vnction or annointing ( besides what is united or annexed to the Crowne Imperiall of this Realme ) it was declared Term. Hilarii . 33. Edward 3. that the Kings of England were capaces jurisdictionis spiritualis , capable of Spirituall or Ecclesiasticall jurisdiction . As after in the regine of King Henry the eighth , it was declared rather then enacted , that the Kings highnesse was the Supreme head of the Church of England , and that he had authority to reforme all errours , heresies , and abuses in the same . 26. Henry 8. cap. 1. Which title of Supreme ●ead ; though used by King Edward 6. in a●l his reigne , and by Queene Mary for awhile ; was changed by Queene Elizabeth into that of Supreme Governour : and it is now reckoned as a part of the stile of the Kings of England , that they are Supreme Governours in all their Dominions and Countries , over all persons , in all causes , as well Ecclesiasticall as Temporall . Now as the Kings of England are absolute at home ; so are they no lesse honoured and esteemed abroad : the Emperour being accounted filius major Ecclesiae , the eldest sonne of the Church ; the King of France , filius minor , or the second sonne ; and the King of England , filius ●ertius & adoptivus , the third and the adopted sonne . In generall Councels , the King of France took place at the Emperours right hand ; the King of England on his left , and the King of Scots having precedencie next before Castile . And whereas since the time of Charles the fifth , the Kings of Spaine have challenged the precedencie of all Christian Princes : yet in the time of King Henry 7. Pope Iulius gave it to the English before the Spaniard . Nay lest the Kings of England might fall short in any thing wherein their neighbour Princes glory , they also have an adjunct or peculiar title annexed unto the stile Imperiall . For where the King of France is stiled Christianissimus , most Christian ; and the King of Spaine , Catholicus , or the Catholick King : the King of England hath the title of Defensor fidei , or the defender of the Faith. A title not so much conferred on King Henry 8. by the Popes of Rome , as confirmed unto him . For in a Charter of King Richard 2. unto the University of Oxford , the same stile occurres : for which and other proofes here of consult the Epistle Dedicatory before Doctor Crakanhorp against the Arch-Bishop of Spalato ; and Sir Isaac Wake , in his Rex Platonicus . But now we goe unto the Kings . South-Britaine or ENGLAND , The Kings thereof , according to the British story , from I. Caesar unto Constantine .   1 CAssibelan .   2 Theomantius .   3 Cymbeline .   4 Guiderius . A. Ch   45 5 Arviragus , called Pra●usagus by Hector Boctius . 73 6 Marius . 125 7 Coilus . 180 8 Lucius , the first Christned King of Britaine and the world : who dying without Children , left the Roman Emperours his heire . 207 9 Severus Emperour of Rome . 211 10 Bassianus sonne of Severus . 218 11 Carausius a noble Briton . 225 12 Alectus . 232 13 Aesclepiodorus . 262 14 Coilus . II. 289 15 Helena daughter of Coilus , and Constantius Emp. of Rome .   16 Constantine , sonne of Helena and Constantius ; who added , or united his estate in Britaine , unto the Monarchy of Rome . South-Britaine or England , the Kings thereof , from the departure of the Romans , unto the setling of the Saxons . A. Ch.   431 1 COnstantine of Ar 〈…〉 rica or little Britaine . 443 2 Constantius sonne of Constantine . 446 3 Vo 〈…〉 iger Earle of the Gevisser , who called in the Saxons . 464 4 Vortimer , sonne of Vortiger . 471 5 Vortiger ( againe ) . 481 6 Aurelius Ambrosius second sonne of Constantine . 500 7 Uter Pendragon thi●ck so● of Const . 506 8 Arthur , son of Vter pendragon . 542 9 Constantine II. next Cousin of Artbur . 546 10 Conan . 576 11 Vorhpor . 580 12 Malgo. 586 13 Careticus . 613 14 Cadwan . 635 15 Cadwallan . 678 16 Cadwalladar . After whose death ( the Saxons having totally subdued all the Countrey on this side the Severne ) the British Princes were no longer called Kings of Britaine , but Kings of Wales : of whom more hereafter . The Kingdome and Kings of Kent . THe Saxons being called in by Vortiger to resist the Scots , and other people of the North , did by degrees expulse the Britons : and having totally subdued the Countrey , erected in the same seven Kingdomes . Of these the ancientest was that of Kent , confined within that County onely : the Kings these that follow . A. Ch.   455 1 Hengist the first King of Kent . 488 2 Eske or Osca . 512 3 Octa. 532 4 Immerick . 561 5 Ethelbert S. the first Christned King , the founder of S. Pauls in London . 617 6 Edbald . 641 7 Ercombert . 665 8 Egbert . 673 9 Lotharius . 686 10 Edrick . 693 11 Wightred . 726 12 Egbert . II. 749 13 Ethelbert . II. 759 14 Alricus . 794 15 Ethelbert . III. sirnamed Pren. 797 16 Cuthred . 805 17 Baldred , who in the yeare 827. lost both his life and Kingdome unto Egbert King of the WEST-SAXONS . The Kingdome and Kings of the SOUTH-SAXONS . THe Kingdome of the South Saxons was begun by Ella , a noble Captaine of that people . It contained the two Counties of Sussex and Surrey , which were thence denominated : the first so called quasi South sex , the Countrey of the South-Saxons ; the second quasi South ▪ rey , as lying on the South of the river ●hamise . This Kingdome lasted but a while , and had onely these foure Kings that follow . viz. A. Ch.   488 1 Ella the first King of the South-Saxons . 514 2 Cissa .   3 Ethelwolf or Edilwach the first Christned King of the South-Saxons .   4 Berthun and Authun two brothers both joyntly reigning , and both joyntly vanquished by Cradwall King of the WEST-SAXONS . The Kingdome and Kings of the WEST-SAXONS . THe third in order of these Kingdomes , and that which did in fine prevaile over all the rest , was that of the West-Saxons . It contained in it the Counties of Cornwall , Devon , Dorset , Sommerset , Wiltes , Southampton , and Berks : the Kings these . A. Ch.   522 1 Cerdicus the first King. 17. 539 2 Kinricus . 29. 565 3 Celingus or Cheuline . 10. 595 4 Celricus . 5. 600 5 Ceolwolf . 614 6 Kingil the first christned King. 646 7 Kenewalchin . 31. 677 8 Sigebertus . 1. 678 9 Esewin . 2. 680 10 Centwin . 7. 687 11 S. Cedwalla . 3. 690 12 Ina 35. who first gave the Peter-pence to the Church of Rome . 725 13 Ethelard . 14. 739 14 Cuthbert . 16. 755 15 Sigebert . II. 1. 756 16 Kinulphus . 31. 787 17 Bithrick . 13. 800 18 Egbert , of whom see more in the Saxon Monarchs . The Kingdome and Kings of the EAST-SAXONS . THe Kingdome of East-Saxons is the fourth in order , of the Hepiarchie ; begunne in Anno 527. some five yeares after that of the West-Saxons . It comprehended the Counties of Essex , Midlesex , and part of Hertfordshire ; the Kings these that follow . A. Ch.   527 1 Erchenwme . 587 2 Sledda . 596 3 S. Seber , tthe first Christned King of the East-Saxons ; and first founder of S. Peters in Westminster .   4 Seward and Sigebert . 623 5 Sigebert the little .   6 Sigebert . III. 651 7 Swithelme . 664 8 Sighere . 664 9 S. Sebba .   10 Sigherd .   11 Seofride . 701 12 Offa. 709 13 S●lred . 747 14 Suthred , subdued by Egbert ▪ King of the West-Saxons , and his Kingdome made a member of that rising Empire . The Kingdome and Kings of the EAST-ANGLES . NExt to the Kingdome of the East-Saxons , was that of the EAst-Angles ; containing in it the Counties of Norfolke , Suffolke , and Cambridge shire , with the Isle of Ely : and had these Kings following . A. Ch.   575 1 Uffa , the first King. 582 2 Titullus . 593 3 Redwald the first christned King. 624 4 Erpenwald . 636 5 S. Sigebert . 638 6 Egric . 642 7 Anna. 654 8 Ethelbert . 656 9 E●lelwald . 664 10 Alduffe . 683 11 Elsewolfe . 714 12 B●orne . 714 13 S. Etheldred . 749 14 Ethelbert . II. who died Anno 793. 870 15 S. Edmund . After whose slaughter by the Danes , and that his Kingdome had beene long wasted by that people ; it was atlast united to the West-Saxons , by King Edw. the elder . The Kingdome and Kings of the NORTH-HUMBERS . THe Kingdome of the North-humbers , of Northumberland , was the fifth in course of time , of the Saxon Heptarchy ▪ it was divided into two parts or Provinces , the one of which was called Bernicia ; the other Deira of which the former called Bernicia , was founded by one Ida , Anno 547. the other by one Ella , his fellow and companion in armes , Anno 559. This last contained the whole Countries from the North of Humber to the Twede , viz. the Counties of Yorke , Durham , Lancaster , Westmorland , Cumberland , and Northumberland : the other all that part of Scotland , which lieth betweene the river Twede , and the Frith of Edenbourg ; which was as farre as ever the Romans had gone before them . Those Kings of either , which were more powerfull then the other , were honoured with the name of Kings of the North humbers , and are mar●hailed thus . A. Ch.   547 1 Ella and Ida.   2 Adda and Elappea .   3 Theodwald .   4 Frethulse .   5 Theodorick . 589 6 Ethelrick . 593 7 Ethel●ride . 617 8 Edwine the first christned King. 633 9 Osrick . 634 10 S. Oswald . 643 11 Oswy , who having subdued Oswine King of Deira , was the first absolute King of all Northumberland . 671 12 Egfride . 686 13 S. Alfride . 705 14 Osred . 716 15 Kenred . 718 16 Osrick . II. 729 17 Ceolnulph . 738 18 Egbert . 758 19 Oswulph . 759 20 Edilwald . 765 21 Alured . 774 22 Ethelred . 778 23 Alfwald . 789 24 Osred . II. 794 25 Etheldred . II. After whose death this Kingdome much molested by the Danes , became a Province of the West-Saxons . The Kingdome and Kings of MERCIA . THe last and greatest of the seven Kingdomes of the Saxons , was that of Mercia , so called , for that being seated in the middle of the whole Countrey , it was a March or border unto all the rest which abutted on it . It comprehended the Counties of Gloucester , Hereford , Worcester , Warwick , Leicoster , Rutland , Northampton , Lincoln , Bedford , Nottingham , Buckingham , Oxford , Darby , Stafford , Shropshire , Cheshire , and that other part of Hertford●hire , which was not under the Kingdome of the East-Saxons . By reason of this great extent of Empire , they were a long time very powerfull , and over-awed their neighbour Princes : till at the last the fatall period being come , it fell into the Armes of the West-Saxons , after it enjoyed these twenty Kings which hereafter follow . A. Ch.   582 1 Cridda the first King of Mercia . 593 2 Wibba . 614 3 Cheorl . 625 4 Penda . 656 5 Peada , the first christned King. 659 6 Wulfhere . 675 7 Ethelred . 704 8 Kenred . 709 9 Chelred . 716 10 Ethelbald . 758 11 Offa. 796 12 Egfride . 797 13 Kenwolf . 819 14 Kenelm . 820 15 Ceolwolf . 8●1 16 Bernulf . 824 17 Ludecan . 826 18 Withlafe . 839 19 Berthulf . 852 20 Burdred . After whose death this Kingdome having beene shrewdly shaken in a great battell fought near Burford , Comit ▪ Oxon. wherein King Ethelbald was vanquished , and his whole strength broken by Cuthbert , or Cuthred , King of the West-Saxons , then his tributary : and after no lesse shrewdly shaken by the valiant Egbert , became a Province of that Empire . The Monarchs of the English-SAXONS . THe Saxons , though they were divided into the seven Kingdomes before named , were for the most part subject unto one alone ; who was entituled Rex Gentis Anglorum , or King of the English Nation : those which were stronger then the rest , giving the law unto them in their severall turnes , till in the end they all became incorporated into the Empire of the West-Saxons . Which Monarchs , who they were , and of whence entituled , is next in order shewne . A. Ch.   455 1 Hengist King of Kent . 481 2 Ella King of the South-Saxons . 495 3 Cerdick King of the West-Saxons . 534 4 Kenrick King of the West-Saxons . 561 5 Cheuline , or Celingus , King of the West-Saxons . 562 6 Ethelbert King of Kent . 616 7 Redwald King of the East-Angles . 617 8 Edwin King of Northumberland . 634 9 Oswald King of Northumberland . 643 10 Oswy King of Northumberland . 659 11 Wulfhere King of Mercia . 675 12 Ethelred King of Mercia . 704 13 Kenred King of Mercia . 709 14 Chelred King of Mercia . 716 15 Ethelbald King of Mercia . 758 16 Offa King of Mercia . 794 17 Egfride King of Mercia . 796 18 Kenwolf King of Mercia . 800 19 Egbert the sonue of Al●mond , King of the West-Saxons , the first and absolute Monarch of the whole Heptarchy : who having vanquished all , or most of the Saxon Kings , and added their estates unto his owne , commanded the whole Countrey to be called by the name of ENGLAND . The Kings whereof , after the Countrey was so named , are these that follow . The Kings of ENGLAND of the Saxon Race . A. Ch.   800 1 Egbert the 18 King of the West-Saxons , the 19 Monarch of the English , and first King of England . 37. 837 2 S. Ethelwolf 20. 857 3 Edelbald . 858 4 Edelbert . 5. 863. 5 Edelfride . 9. 873. 6 S. Alured , who totally reduced the Saxons under one Monarchy , and founded the University of Oxford . 23. 900 7 Edward the elder . 24. 924 8 Athelstane . 16. 940 9 Edmund . 6. 946 10 Eadred who stiled himselfe King of Great Britaine . 955 11 Edwin . 4. 959 12 S. Edgar . 16. 975 13 Edward the younger . 3. 678 14 Ethelred . 1016 15 Edmund Ironside . The Danish Race . 1017 16 Canutus King of Danemark ▪ 2● . 1037 17 Harald Harfager . 4. 1041 18 Hardie Cnute . 4. The Saxons repossessed . 1045 19 S. Edward who founded and endowed the Church of westminster , and was the first that cured the disease called the Kings-evill , leaving the same hereditary to his successors . 1066 20 Harald the sonne of Godwin ●surped the Crowne , and shortly lost both it and his life to boote , to William Duke of Normandy . The NORMAN Race . 1067 21 William Duke of Normandy , sirnamed the Conquerour . 22. 1089 22 William Rusus . 13. 1102 23 Henry Beauclenk . 35. 1136 24 Stephen E. of Bloys . 19. The Saxon line restored . 1155 25 Henry II. descended by his Grand-mother , from the bloud Royall of the Saxons . 34. 1189 26 Richard Coeur de Lyon. 12. 1201 27 John. 17. 1218 28 Henry . III. 56. 1274 29 Edward . I. 34. 1308 30 Edward . II. 19. 1327 31 Edward . III. 50. 1377 32 Richard. II. The line of Lancaster . 1399 33 Henry . IV. 15. 1414 34 Henry . V. 9. 1423 35 Henry . VI. 38. The line of Yorke . 1461 36 Edward . IV. 23. 1483 37 Edward . V. 1483 38 Richard. III. 3 ▪ The families united . 1486 39 Henry . VII . 23. 1508 40 Henry . VIII . 39. 1547 41 Edward . VI. 6. 1553 42 Queene Mary . 5. 1558 43 Queene Elizabeth . 45. The union of the Kingdomes . 1602 44 JAMES King of Scots , reassumed the title of Great-Britaine . 1625 45 CHARLES by the grace of God , King of Great Britaine , France , and Ireland ; the 63. King in descent from the West-Saxon Cerdick , the 64. Monarch of the English , and 45. King of England in descent from Egbert : whom God long preserve . Kings of WALES . THe Britons being outed of their Countrey by the conquering Saxons , retired themselves beyond the Severn , and therein fortified themselves ; which Countrey thereupon came to bee called Wales , and the people Walsh , or Welch men . Nor that the word Walsh , signified in the Saxon language , a Foreiner or Alien , as it is conceived ( for how could they be called Aliens in their native Countrey ? ) but Wales , and Wallish , for Galles and Gallish , by changing G into W , according to the custome of the Saxons . The Britons being descended of the Gaules , kept their old name still ; though somewhat altered in the letter , as before is said : and to this day the French doe call the Prince of Wales , by the name of le Prince de Galles . At first their chiefes were honoured with the title of Kings of Wales , aod are these that follow . A Ch.   690 1 Idwallo . 30. 720 2 Roderick . 35. 755 3 Conan . 63. 818 4 Mervyn . 25. 843 5 Roderick sirnamed the Great , who divided Wales betweene his three sonnes , allotting unto each his part : the Countrey being divided into North-Wales , South-Wales , and Powys-land which had their severall Lords and Princes , as hereafter followeth . The Principality and Princes of South-Wales . SOuth - Wales , in the division of the Countrey amongst the sonnes of Roderich Mawr , fell unto Gadel the second sonne● 〈◊〉 contained all that quantity and tract of ground , which now we call the Counties of Glamorgan , Pembreke , Carmarthen , Cardigan , and part of Brecknock : which being the richer and more fruitfull part of Wales , and lying most open re-invasion , both by sea and land , was soonest brought under the command of the Kings of England . The principall seat of the Princes of it , was Dynesar , or Dynevor Castle , not farre from Carmarthen , who thence were called by their subjects , the Kings of Dynevor ; and whilest they stood upon their own clegges , were these that follow . A. Ch.   877 1 Cadell second sonne of Roderick .   2 Howell . 907 3 Howell Dha . 948 4 Owen .   5 Eneas .   6 Theodore Mawr . 1077 7 Rhese . I. 1093 8 Gryffith . I.   9 Rhese . II.   10 Gryffith . II. in whom ended the line of the Princes of South-Wales , his Countrey being conquored by the English , and his two sonnes Meredith and Cynerick taken by King Henry the second , who caused their eyes to be put out . After which time South-Wales was reckoned as a part of the Realme of England . The Principality and Princes of North-Wales . NOrth-Wales in the division of the Kingdome of Wales , fell to the share of Amarawd , the eldest sonne of Roderick Mawr , the last King thereof ; with a superiority of power over both the rest , who were but homagers to this . It contained in it all that territory which now doth comprehend the Counties of Merioneth , Denbigh , Flint , Ca●na● von , and the Isle of Anglesey , which being the more mountainous parts ; and consequently of more difficult accesse then the others were , as they did longest keepe their liberties , so doe they still preserve their language from the incursions of the English. Abersraw in the Isle of Anglesey was the Princes seate , who were hence sometimes called the Kings of Abersraw , and were these ensuing . A. Ch.   8077 1 Amarawd eldest sonne of Roderick . 913 2 Idwallo .   3 Merick .   4 Joanes . 1067 5 Conan . 1099 6 Gryffith 1120 7 Owen . 1178 8 David . I. 1194 9 Llewellen . I. 1240 10 David . II. 1246 11 Llewellen . II. the last of the Princes of Wales of the British bloud , of whom , and the conclusion of his race , see the following Catalogue . The Kings and Princes of it , according to the History of Wales . IN the History of Wales , writ by Humphrey Lloyd , the Kings and Princes of Wales are reckoned differently from that succession of them before laied downe . The reason of which difference may be that he reciteth there the Predominant Princes , such as gave law unto the rest , whether of North-Wales , South-Wales , or of Powys-land : even as wee see was done before , in summing up the Monarchs of the English Saxons , out of the severall Kingdoms in that Heptarchie . Now for his Catalogue of the Welch , both Kings and Princes , he recites them thus . A Ch.   688 1 Ivor . 720 2 Roderick Molwinoc . 755 3 Conan Tindaethwy . 820 4 Mervyn Urich . 843 5 Roderick Mawr . 877 6 Amarawdh . 913 7 Edward Voel . 940 8 Howel Dha . 948 9 Jevaf , and Jago . 982 10 Howel ap Jevaf . 984 11 Cadwallan ap Jevaf . 986 12 Meredith ap Owen . 992 13 Edwal ap Meiric . 1003 14 Aedan ap Blegored . 1015 15 Lhewellen ap Sitsyl● . 1021 16 Jago ap Edwall . 1037 17 Gryffith ap Llewellen . 1061 18 Blethyn , and Rhywallon . 1073 19 Trahaern ap Caradoc . 1078 20 Gryffith ap Conan . 1137 21 Owen Gwineth . 1169 22 David ap Owen . 1194 23 Llewellen ap Jorweth . 1240 24 David ap Llewellen . 1246 25 Llewellen ap Gryffith , the last Prince of Wales of the British race , who lost his life and principality to King Edward the first , Anno 1282. After whose death , the King perceiving that the Welch had no affection to be ruled by strangers ; sent for his Queene then great with child , to come unto him to Carnarvon , and hearing tha● shee was delivered of a sonne , called the Welch Lords together , and proffered them a Prince to beare rule amongst them , of their owne nation , one who spake no word of English , and such a one whose life no man could tax . To such a Prince when they had all sworn to yeeld obedience ; he named his new-borne sonne unto them , and made him their Prince , since when the eldest sonnes of England have commonly beene created Princes of Wales . The Princes of it , of the bloud Royall of England . WALES thus brought under the obedience of the Kings of England , hath since beene commonly the honourary title and possession of their eldest sonnes . Not that they challenge it , as of due belonging to them ; but take it from their Fathers as of speciall Grace , by solemne creation and investure , tenendum sibi & baeredibus suis Regibus Angliae , to hold to them and their heires Kings of England : our Kings not being willing to deprive themselves of such a power of gratifying and obliging their eldest sonnes , as they saw occasion . Edward 2. who had been summoned by his Father unto the Parliament by the name of Prince of Wales , and Earle of Chester : summoned his eldest sonne ( King Edward 3. ) by no other name then Earle of Chester and Flint . Edward 3. first used the ceremony of creation , by letters Patents , and investiture , which hath since continued : and for the want of which , Edward 6. Queene Mary and Queen Elizabeth however in their severall turnes , they have beene called Princes and Princesses of Wales , were not truely such . Those which were so created , either by Parliamentary Writ or especiall Charter , are these that follow . 〈◊〉 Ch.     1 Edward of Carnarvon eldest sonne of King Edward the first . 1344 2 Edward the black Prince , eldest son of King Edward the third . 1377 3 Richard of Burdeaux , eldest sonne unto the black Prince 1399 4 Henry of Monmouth , eldest sonne of King Henry the sourth . 1454 5 Edward of Westminster , onely son of King Henry the sixth . 1472 6 Edward of Westminster , eldest son of King Edward the sourth . 1483 7 Edward Earle of Salisbury , eldest sonne of King Richard the third . 1492 8 Arthur , the eldest sonne of King Henry the seventh . 1506 9 Henry Duke of Yorke second sonne to King Henry the seventh , after K. Henry the eighth . 1610 10 Henry , eldest sonne of King Iames the first Monarch of Great Britaine . 1616 11 CHARLES Duke of Yorke , second sonne of King Iames , now the second Monarch of Great Britaine . Princes and Lords of Powys-land . POwys-land is the third part of Wales , but the least of all , containing onely the whole County of Montgomery , and part of Radnor , Brecknock , Denbigh , and Sbropshire . The chiefe seate hereof was Matravall , in Montgomery shire , from whence the Princes of it would be called the Kings of Matravall . It was bestowed by Roderick Mawr , in his division of Wales , on Mervyn his youngest son and did continue in his line a long time together ▪ but much afflicted and dismembred by the Princes of Northwales , who cast a greedy eye upon it . The first Prince of it was called Mervyn , but we have no good constat of his successors : the last that held it all entire , was Meredith ap Blethin , who divided it betweene his two sonnes , Madoc , and Gryffith , of the which Madoc died at Winchefter , Anno 1160 , and Gryffith was by Henry the first of England created Lord Powys , the residue of Powys-land which pertained to Madoc , depending still upon the fortune of North-Wales . The Lords of Powys . A. Ch.     1 Gryffith ap Meredith .   2 Owen Cynelioc .   3 Gwenwynnin .   4 Gryffith ap Gwenwynnin   5 Owen ap Gryffith .   6 John Charleton , one of the Bed-chamber to King Edward the second ▪ married Hawys daughter of Owen ap Gryffith . 1353 7 John Charleton , Lord Powys . 1360 8 John Charleton , Lord Powys . 1374 9 John Charleton , Lord Powys . 1401 10 Edward Charleton , Lord Powys . 1420 11 Henry Grey , nephew of Edward Lord Powys by his daughter Iam created Earle of Tanquerville by King H. 〈◊〉 .   12 Richard Gray Lord Powys .   13 John Gray Lord Powys .   14 John Gray Lord Powys .   15 Edward Gray , the last Lord Powys of the race of Mervyn , sonne of Roderick King of Wales . ●629 ▪ 16 William Herbert of Rod-castle ▪ sonne of Edward , second sonne of William Herbert Earle of Pembroke , created Lord Powys , 〈◊〉 . Car. Apr. 2. now living 1641. Kings and Lords of MAN. THe Isle of MAN is situate so equally betweene England and Ireland , that once it was a controversie unto the which it appertained ; but was in fine adjudged to England , in that some venemous wormes brought hi●ther , did not forthwith die : which kinde of creatures the nature of the Irish soyle will by no mea●ies brooke . It was once subject unto the crowne and Kingdome of Northumberland , but from them taken by the Danes , Norwegians , and other people of the North , in their i●ruptions on these parts : who having mastered it , ordained therein a petit King of their owne Nation ; who thus succeeded one another . Kings of MAN. A. Ch.   1065 1 Godred the sonne of Syrri● . 1066 2 Fingall sonne of Godred . 1066 3 Godred the sonne of Harald . 1082 4 Lagman eldest sonne of Godred . 1089 5 Dopnald sonne of Tade . 1098 6 Magnus King of Norway . 1102 7 Olave third sonne of Godred . 1144 8 Godred sonne of Olave . 1187 9 Reginald , base sonne of Godred . 1226 10 Olave the lawfull sonne of Godred 1237 11 Herald sonne of Olave . 1249 12 Raignald ▪ II. brother of Harald . 1252 13 Magnus . II. brother of Raignald . 1256 14 Magnus King of Man being deceased without issue , Alexander third King of the Scots , partly by conquest , and partly by money pa●ed to the Norweglans , brought this and all the rest of the Westerne Isles under his obedience . After this time , it was sometimes dependant on the Crowne of Scotland , and sometimes on England , according as their fortunes varied : till in the end , it was regained finally from the Scots , by William Mon 〈…〉 e Earle of Salisbury ( who was descended from the ancient Kings of Man ) and by him after sold to the Lord Scrope , on whose a●●ainder it fell unto the Crowne of England , and changed Lords as followeth . Kings and Lords of MAN , of English bloud . A. Ch.   1340 1 William Earle of Salisbury . K. 1395 2 William Lord Scrope . K. 1399 3 Henry Earle of Northumberland Lord. 1403 4 William Lord Stanley , Lord of Man.   5 John Lord Stanley , Lord of Man.   6 Thomas Lord Stanley , Lord of Man.   7 Thomas Lord Stanley , Lord of Man , created Earle of Darbie by K. Henry 7. 1503 8 Thomas Stanley Earle of Darby , Lord of Man. 1521 9 Edward Stanley Earle of Darby , Lord of Man ▪ 1572 10 Henry Stanley Earle of Darby , Lord of Man. 1593 11 Ferdinando Stanley Earle of Darby , Lord of Man. 1604 12 William Stanley now Earle of Darby , and Lord of Man ▪ 1640. Lords and Kings . THe Isle of Wight abutting on the coast of Hampshire , was taken from the English by William Eitz-Osborne , Earle of Hereford , in the time of William Duke of Normandy , and King of England : who thereupon became the first Lord therof . After whose death & the proscription of his sonne Roger , it fell unto the Crowne , and was by Henry the second bestowed upon the family of the Ryvers , Earles of Devon. On the extinction of which line , it fell againe unto the Crowne , in the time of King Edward the first ; and in the same hath since continued : giving the title onely of one King , and one Lord to two Potent subjects . Now for the Lords and King , they are these here following . A. Ch.     1 William Fitz-Osborne , Earle of Hereford . 1072 2 Roger de Breteville , Earle of Hereford .   3 Richard de Ryvers , Earle of Devon.   4 Baldwin de Ryvers , Earle of Devon. 1154 5 Richard de Ryvers , Earle of Devon . 1161 6 Baldwin de Ryvers , Earle of Devon .   7 Richard de Ryvers , Earle of Devon.   8 William de Ryvers , Earle of Devon. 1216 9 Baldwin de Ryvers , Earle of Devon. 1245 10 Baldwin de Ryvers , Earle of Devon. 1261 11 Isabell , sister to Earle Baldwin , and wife to William de Fortibus , surrendred up her interest in this Iland , to King Edward the first . 1445 12 Henry Beauchamp , Earle of Warwick , Anno 23. of Henry 6. was crowned King of the Isle of Wight , and shortly after made Duke of Warwick . 1466 13 Richard Lord Wideville Earle Ryvers , made by King Edward 4. Lord of the Wight . THE SECOND TABLE , OR , A CATALOGVE OF All the Bishops which have governed in the Church of England , and VVales , since the conversion of the SAXONS . Together with the honourary Offices which they , or any of them have enjoyed in the civill government . Divided into two parts . Printed at London . 1641. THE PREFACE TO THE ENSUING CATALOGUE of Arch-Bishops , and Bishops . THE saith of Christ being here planted as saith Gildas , tempore sum●o Tiberii Caesaris , towards the latter end of Tiberius Caesar , was as it seemes , concealed and hidden till the time of Lucius : who publikely making profession of it , procured three Archiepisco pals seates to be erected at York● , Ca●r-Leon upon Vsk , and London for the North , West , and Southerne parts ; and suffragan Bishops to be allotted and assigned unto each of them . Of these and their successors wee have little Consta● , onely some foot-steps in some places , whereby we may discerne the ruine of religion which had beene made here by the Saxons . But when the Saxons were converted to the Christian faith , they grew more zealous of the same , then formerly they had beene averse from it : and gave it suddenly a generall and unanimous admittance . Which being done , that part of England which was then in their possession , was divided into the two Provinces of Canterbury and Yorke : the ancient Britons or the Welsh continuing for a long time after under the rule and government of their owne Arch-Bishop ; but in the end were also brought to yeeld obedience to the See of Canterbury . The Church thus brought into a settled forme and order , became forthwith of such esteeme at home , that they have long time beene accounted Peeres of the Realme , and are by writ summoned unto all Parliaments , as are the temporall Barons ; and of such reputation and same abroad , that the Arch-Bishops of both Provinces were adjudged to be Legatinati : the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury having a superintendencie over all the Irish Bishops ; as he of Yorke , had a direct primacie over those of the Church of Scotland . And in the Councell held at Constance , what time the Fathers there assembled , were for the better dispatch of businesse , divided into severall Nations : the English Nation , Anglicana natio , was reckoned amongst the chiefest . At this time since this Church was manumitted from the Pope , it may be warrantably said to bee the most exact and perfect● of the Reformation : keeping a constant & continued succession in the holy Hierarchy , and consequently also in all holy Orders ; and whatsoever else is necessary , either in doctrine , government , or ceremony , unto the constitution of an Apostolicall and Orthodox Church . As for the method which we meane to use in this following Catalogue , it is briefely this : we will begin first with the Province and See of Canterbury , and those particular Suffragan Bishops which owe obedience thereunto , which we will marshall in the order of the Alphabet , those of Wales included . For howsoever they had once the honour to have an Arch-Bishop of their owne , yet being now reputed members of the Province of Canterbury ; we will dispose of them accordingly . That done , we will proceed unto the Province and See of Yorke , and those sew Bishopricks , which are now remaining of the same : which as the rest before , we will also take along , according to the order of the Alphabet . And this we take to be the easiest order for the Reader : that of the Antiquity of the Sees , being very intricate and perplext , and that of the Antiquity or consecration of the men themselves , both changeable and uncertaine . For if we went according to the way of precedencie which is now in use , established by Act of Parliament 31. H. 8. c. 10. we should dispose them in this manner : viz. First the two Arch-Bishops of Ganterbury and Yorke , next the three Bishops of London , Dunelm , Winchester , and last of all the residue of the Prelates according to the Seniority of their consecrations . This is the order of precedencie which is now in use , which yet is no new order in regard of London and Wintón , who anciently had place before the rest , in all assemblies of the Clergy : but this being changeable and uncertaine , as before was said , we shall make use rather of the other . Now in'each See and Diocese we will keep this course : First we will shew you the antiquity and ordination of each , together with the foundation of their Cathedrall Churches ; what Counties each of them containeth , what priviledges anciently they enjoyed , and still claime to have ; how many Parishes there be in every Diocese , by what Arch-Deacons they are governed , what is the tenth of the whole Clergie in every Diocese , and how much in the Kings bookes is every Bishoprick . We shall observe also , what and how many of the Prelates have beene extract from honourable houses , whose names shall be distinguished by a little Asterisme thus* , as also how many of them have beene canonized and accounted Saints , who and how many of them have beene made Cardinals in the Church of Rome , what honourable Offices have beene borne by any of them in the civill state . In the performance of the which S. shall stand for Saint , and Card ▪ for Cardinall : L. Ch. shall signifie L. Chancellour ; L. K. Lord Keeper ; L. Tr. Lord Treasurer ; L. Pr. Lord President , Ch. J. Chiese Justice . M. Ro. Master of the Rolls , and Ch ▪ Qx. Chancellour of Oxford , as Ch. Ca. of Cambridge . By which it will appeare most plainely what a perpetuall Seminary this our Church hath beene , of able and of learned men , not onely for discharge of Ecclesiasticall , but even temporall businesse . Which being premised once for all , we now proceede unto our Catalogue : beginning with the Provincc and See of Canterbury , and following in the order before proposed . THE FIRST PART OF THE CATALOGVE OF BISHOPS , CONTAINING THE SVCCESSION of the Arch-Bishops and Bishops of the Province of CANTERBVRY . Printed at London . 1641. CANTERBURIE and the Arch-Bishops of it . THe Sce of Canter . was first founded with the plantation of religion the amongst English : Austin the Monk , who first did preach the Gospel to the one being the first Arch-Bishop of the other . The Chaire hereof originally fixt in the City of Canterbury ; which being once the Regall City of the Kings of Kent , was by King Ethelbert , on his conversion , bestowed on Austin the Arch-Bishop , and on his Successors forever . The Cathedrall , having beene a Church before in the Britons time was by the same Arch-Bishop Austin repaired , and consecrated , and dedicated to the name of Christ , which it still retaines ; though a long time together it was called Saint Thomas , in honour of Saint Thomas Becket who was therein slaine . The present fabricke was begun by Arch-Bishop Lanfran● , and William Corboyl ; and by degrees made perfect by their Successours . Take Canterbury as the seate of the Metropolitan , and it hath under it 21. suffragan Bishops , of the which 17. are in England , and 4. in Wales . But take it as the seate of a Diocesan , and it containeth onely some part of Kent to the number of 257. Parishes ( the residue being in the Diocese of Rochester ▪ ) together with some few particular Parishes dispersed here and there in severall Dioceses : it being an ancient priviledge of this See , that wheresoever the Arch-Bishops had either Manors or Advowsons , the place forthwith became exempted from the Ordinary , and was reputed of the Diocese of Canterbury . The other priviledges of this See , are that the Arch-Bishop is accounted Primate and Metropolitan of all England , and is the first Peere of the Realme : having precedencie of all Dukes , not being of the Royall bloud , and all the great Officers of the State. He hath the title of Grace offered him in common speech : and writes himselfe divina providentia , where other Bishops onely use , divina permissione . The Coronation of the King hath anciently belonged unto him : it being also formerly resolved that wheresoever the Court was , the King and Queene were speciales & domestici Parochiani Domini Archiepiscopi , the proper and domesticall Parishioners of the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury . It also did belong unto him in former times , to take unto himselfe the offerings made at the holy Altar by the King and Queene , wheresoever the Court was , if he were present at the same ; and to appoint the Lent Preachers : but these time hath altered , and the King otherwise disposed of . Abroad in generall Councels he had place at the Popes right foote ▪ at home ; this Royall priviledge , that those which held lands of him , were liable for Wordship to him , and to compound with him for the same , though they hold other lands in Cheife of our Lord the King. And for the more increase of his power and honour , it was enacted 25 ▪ H. 8 ▪ c. 21. that all licenses and dispensations ( not repugnant to the law of God ) which heretofore were sued for in the Court of Rome , should be hereafter granted by the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury and his successaurs : As also in the 1. Eliz. c. 2. that by the advise of the Metropolitan , or Ecclesiasticall Commissioners , the Queenes Majesty may ordaine and publish such rites and ceremonies , as may bee most for the advancement of Gods glory , the edi●ying of his Church , and the due reverence of Christs holy Sacraments . To come at last to the Arch-Bishops , this Diocese hath only one Arch-Deacon , which is he of Canterbury ▪ the Clergies tenth comes to 651. li. 18. s. 2. d. q. and the Arch-Bishoprick it selfe is valued in the Kings books , at the sum of 2816. li. 17. s ▪ 9. d. q. I onely adde in generall , that this See hath yeelded to the Church 16. Saints ; to the Church of Rome 9. Cardinals ; to the Civill state of England 11. Lord Chancellours , one Lord Treasurer , one Lord Chiefe Justice ; and to the University of Oxford . 9. Chancellours . The particulars follow . Arch-Bishops of Canterbury . A. Ch.   596 1 S. Augustinus . 611 2 S. Laurentius . 619 3 S. Melitus . 624 4 S. Justus . 634 5 S. Honorius . 655 6 S. Adeodatus , or Deusdedit . Vacavit sedes Annos 4. 668 7 S. Theodorus . 692 8 S. Brithwaldus . 731 9 Tatwinus . 736 10 Nothelmus . 742 11 Cuthbertus . 759 12 Bregwinus . 764 13 Lambertus . 793 14 Athelmardus . 807 15 Wulfredus . 832 16 Theogildus .   17 Celnothus . 871 18 Atheldredus . 889 19 Plegmundus . 915 20 Athelmus . 924 21 Wulfelmus , Lord Chancellour . 934 22 S. Odo . 961 23 S. Dunstan , Lord Treasurer . 988 24 Ethelgarus . 989 25 Siricius . 993 26 Alfricus . 1006 27 S. Elphegus . 1013 28 Livingus , allas Leovingus . 1020 29 Agelnothus . 1038 30 S. Eadsinus . 1050 31 Robert us Gemiticensis . 1052 32 Stigandus . 1070 33 S. Lanfrancus . Vacavit sedes Annos 4. 1093 34 S. Anselm . 1114 35 Rodulphus . 1122 36 William Corboyl . 1138 37 Theobaldus . 1162 38 S. Thomas Becket L. Chancel . 1171 39 Richardus Monachus . 1184 40 Baldwinus . 1191 41 Reginaldus . 1193 42 Hubert Walter , L. Chancel , and L. Ch. Justice . 1206 43 Stephen Langton , Cardinall . 1229 44 Richard Werhershed . 1234 45 S. Edmund , Chancel . of Oxford . 1244 46 Boniface of Savoy . * 1272 47 Robert Kilwarby , Card. 1278 48 John Peckham . 1294 49 Robert Winchelsey , Chan. Oxford ▪ 1313 50 Walter Raynolds . 1327 51 Simon Mepcham . 1333 52 Jo. Stratford , L. Chancel . 1348 53 Thomas Bradwardin . 1349 54 Simon Islippe . 1366 55 Sim. Langham , Gard. L. Chan. 1367 56 William Witlesey . 1375 57 Simon Sudbury , L. Chancel . 1381 58 William Courtney . Chan. Ox. * 1396 59 Thomas Arundel , L. Chan. * 1414 60 Henry Chicheley , Card. 1243 61 John Stafford , Card. * 1452 62 Jo. Kemp. Card. L. Chancel . 1454 63 Thomas Bourchier , Card. Lord Chan. and Chan. of Oxford . * 1486 64 John Morton , the like . 1501 65 Henry Deane . 1504 66 W. Warham , L. Ch. and Ch. Ox. 1533 67 Thomas Cranmer . 1555 68 Reginald Pole , Car. and Chan. Ox. 1559 69 Matthew Parker . 1575 70 Edmund Grindall . 1583 71 Jo. Whitgift . 1604 72 Richard Bancroft , Chan. Oxford . 1610 73 George Abbot . 1633 74 William Laud , Chan. of the University of Oxford , now being , 1641. SAINT ASAPH AND the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Saint Asaph is exceeding ancient ; first founded by one Kentigern a Scot , and there Bishop of Glasco , about the yeere 560. The Cathedrall there first built by him , upon the Banks of the river Elwy : whence it is called by the Welsh , L●an-Elwy ; the Bishop in the ancient Latine Elwensis , or Elguensis ; by us Saint Asaph , from Saint Asaph an holy man , whom Kentigorn returning into Scotland , left here his successor . It seems it stood not long , or not long in credit ; there being a great biatus in the succession of the Bishops : none to be found betweene this S ▪ Asaph , and Geofrie of Monmouth , who was here Bishop in the latter end of King Stephens raigne . And which is more , Henry of Huntington in his recitall of the Welsh Bishopricks reckoneth onely three , Saint Davids , Bangor , and Landaffe : which may be probably imputed to the frequent warres in this bordering Countrey ( for it is seated in the County of Flint , not farre from Chester : ) which made it an unquiet seate for religious persons . This Bishoprick , being at the best , not very rich , was made much poorer in the time of Bishop Parsew , who lived in the daies of King Edward 〈◊〉 . For where the Bishop had before five Episcopall houses , there is none now left but Saint Asaphs onely , the rest together with the lands to them belonging , by him made away , and aliened from the Church for ever : besides , that keeping an house above his meanes , he was faine to let the residue of his lands into tedious leases , not yet expired . This Diocese containeth in it no one whole County ; but part of Denbigh , Flint , Montgomery , Meri●neth , and some townes in Shropsh : wherein are to the number of 121. Parishes , most of the which are in the immediate ▪ Patronage of the Bishop . It hath but one Arch-Deaconry , called of Saint Asapb , which is united to the Bishoprick , for the better sustentation of it . The tenth of the Clergy commeth to 186. li. 19. s. 7. d. ob . q. and for the Bishoprick it selfe , it is valued in the Kings bookes , at the summe of 187. li. 11. s. 6. d. Bishops of Saint Asaph . A. Ch.   560 1 Kentigern .   2 S. Asaph .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1151 3 Geofry of Monmouth .   4 Adam . 1186 5 Reinerus . 1220 6 Abraham . 1235 7 Howel ap Ednever . * 1248 8 Anian . 1268 9 Anian . II. 1293 10 Llewellen de Bromfeild . 1319 11 David ap Blethin .   12 Ephraim .   13 Henricus .   14 John Trevaur . 1357 15 Llewellen ap Madoc . 1373 16 William de Stridlington 〈…〉 1382 17 Lawrence Child . 1390 18 Alexander Bach. 1395 19 John Trevaur . II. 1411 20 Robertus . 1493 21 John Lowe , tr . to Rochester . 1444 22 Reginald Peacock , transl . to Chich. 1450 23 Thomas . 1484 24 Richard Redman , tr . to Exeter . 1503 25 David ap Owen . 1513 26 Edm. Birkhead . 1519 27 Henry Standish . 1535 28 William Barlow , tr . to S. Davids . 1536 29 Robert Parsew , tr . to Hereford . 1555 30 Thomas Goldwell . 1559 31 Richard Davies , tr . to S. Davids . 1561 32 Thomas Davies . 1573 33 Thomas Hughes . 1595 34 William Morgan . 1604 35 Richard Parry . 1622 36 John Hanmer . 1629 37 John Owen , now Bishop of Saint Asapb . 1641. BANGOR , and the Bishops there . BAngor , another of the Bishopricks of Wales , is of ancient standing ; but by whom founded , not yet knowne . The Cathedrall there is dedicated by the name of S. Daniel , who was Bishop here about the yeare 516. which being cruelly defaced by that wretched Rebell Owen Glendowr , was afterward repaired by Henry Deane , who was once here Bishop . The ruine of this Bishoprick , came in the time of Bishop Bulk 〈…〉 , who not content to alienate and let out the lands ; made a sale also of the Bels : and going to the Sea-shoare to see them shipped , in his returne was smitten with a sudden blindnesse . This Diocese containeth in it the entire County of Carnarvon , wherein Bangor standeth , and the whole Isle of Anglesey ; together with parts of Denhigh , Merioneth , and Mountgomery , and in them to the number of 107 Parishes , whereof 36. impropriated , It hath moreover in it , three Arch Deaconries , viz. of Bangor , Anglesey , and Merioneth , one of the which is added to the Bishoprick , for support thereof . The Bishoprick is valued in the Kings bookes , 131. li. 16. s. 4. d. and answereth for the Clergies tenth , 151. li. 14. s. 3. d. q. Bishops of Bangor . A. Ch   516 1 S. Daniel .     ✚ ✚ ✚   1 Hernaeus , translated to Ely. 1120 2 David . 1139 3 Mauritius .   4 Gulielmus .   5 Guido , alias Guianus . 1195 6 Albanus . 1197 7 Robertus de Salopia . 1215 8 Caducan . 1236 9 Howel .   10 Richardus . 1267 11 Anianus . 1306 12 Caducan . II. 1306 13 Cryffith . 1320 14 Ludovicus . 1334 15 Matthaeus . 1358 16 Thom. de Ringstede . 1367 17 Gervasius de Castro . 1370 18 Howell . II. 1374 19 John Gilbert , tr . to S. Davids . 1376 20 John Clovensis .   21 John Swaffam . 1400 22 Richard Young , tr . to Rochester .   23 Ludovicus . II. 1408 24 Benedict Nicols , tr . to S. David . 1418 25 William Barrow , tr . to Ca●lile .   26 Nicolaus . 1436 27 Thomas Cheriton . 1448 28 John Stanbery , tr ▪ to Hereford . 〈◊〉 29 Jacobus . 1464 30 Thomas Ednam . 1496 31 Henry Deane , tr . to Salisbury . 1500 32 Thomas Pigor . 1504 33 Joh. Penvy , tr . to Carlile . 1505 34 Thomas Skevington . 1534 35 John Capon . tr . to Salisbury . 1539 36 John Bird , tr . to Chester . 1541 37 Arthur Bulkeley . 1555 38 William Glynn . 1559 39 Rowland Merick . 1566 40 Nicolas Robinson . 1585 41 Hugh Bellott , tr . to Chester . 1595 42 Richard Vaughon , tr . to Chester . 1595 43 Henry Rowlands . 1616 44 Lewys Bayly . 1632 45 David Dol●in . 1633 46 Edward Gryffith . 1637 47 William Roberts , Sub-Almoner , now Bishop of Bangor . 1641. BATH AND WELLES , and the Bishops of it . THe Diocese of Bath and Welles , although it hath a double name , is one single Bishoprick . The Bishops seate originally at Welles , where it still continues , and in respect whereof this Church is called in some Writers , Fontanensis Ecclesia . The stile of Bath came in bu● upon the by . The Church of Welles first built by Ina , King of the West-Saxons , Anno 704. and by him dedicated to Saint Andrew : after endowed by Kenu●se , an other King of the same people , Anno 766. and finally made a bishops See in the time of Edward the elder , Anno 905. the first that bore that title being Adelmus , before Abbat of Glastenbury . The present Church , in place where that of Ina had stood before , was built most part of it by Bishop Robert , the eighteenth Bishop of this See ; but finished and perfected by Bishop Iote●ine , sirnamed de Welles . Iohannes de villula , the sixteenth Bishop having bought the towne of Bath of King Henry the first for 500. markes , transferred his seate unto that City , 1088. Hence grew a jarre betweene the Monks of Bath and Canons of Welles , about the election of the Bishop . At last the difference was thus composed by that Bishop Robert , whom before I spake of , that from thence forward the Bishop should be denominated from both places , and that precedencie in the stile should be given to Bath ; that in the vacancie of the See , a certaine number of Delegates from both Churches should elect their Prelate , who being elected , should bee installed in them both ; both of them to be reckoned as the Bishops Chapter , and all his Grants and Patents confirmed in both . And so it stood untill the reigne of King H. 8. what time the Monastery of Bath having beene dissolved , there passed an Act of Parliament for the Deane and chapter of Welles , to make one sole Chapter for the Bishop : Anno 35. H. 8. c. 15. But to proceed , this Diocese hath yeelded to the Church of Rome , one Card. and to the civill state of England , sixe Lord Chancellours , five Lord Treasurers , one Lord Privie Seale , one Lord President of Wales , one principall secretary of Estate . The Diocese containeth in it the whole County of Somerse● , and in that 388. Parishes , whereof 160. are impropriate . It hath moreover three Arch-Deaconries of Bath , Welles , and Taunton ; is valued in the Kings bookes , at 533. li. 1. s. 3 d. and answereth for the Clergies tenth , 353. li. 18. s. ob . q. Bishops of Welles . A. Ch.   905 1 Adelmus , translated to Cant.   2 Wulfelmus , translated to Cant.   3 Elphegus .   4 Wulfelmus . II. 955 5 Brithelmus . 973 6 Kinewardus . 985 7 Sigarus . 995 8 Alwinus .   9 Burwoldus . 1002 10 Leoningus , translated to Cant.   11 Ethelwinus .   12 Brithwinus .   13 Merewith . 1031 14 Dudoco , alias Bodeca . 1059 15 Giso . Bishops of Bath and Welles . 1088 16 Johannes de Villula . 1123 17 Godefridus , L. Chancel . 1136 18 Robertus Lewensis . 1174 19 Reginald Fitz-Joceline translated to Cant. 1192 20 Sava●icus , who removed the See to Glastonbury . 1205 21 Joceline de Welles . 1224 22 Rogerus . 1247 23 Gul. Button , L. Chan. and Treas . 1264 24 Walt. Giffard , transl . to Yorke . 1267 25 Gul. Button . II. 1274 26 Rob. Burnell , L. Chan. and L. Tr. 1292 27 Gul. de Marchia , L. Treas . 1302 28 Walt. Haselshaw . 1310 29 Joh. Drokensford , L. Treas . 1329 30 Radulphus de Salopia . 1336 31 Joh. Barnet , transl . to Ely. 1366 32 Joh. Harewell . 1386 33 Walt. Skirlaw , transl . to Durham . 1388 34 Radulph Erghum . 1401 35 Henry Bowet , transl . to Yorke . 1408 36 Nic. Bubwith . 1425 37 Joh. Stafford , L. Chan. and Treas . transl . to Cant. * 1443 38 Thomas Beckington . 1465 39 Robert de Stillington , L. Pr. Seale , and afterward L. Chan. 1491 40 Rich. Fox , transl . to Durham . 1495 41 Oliver King principall Secretary . 1505 42 Adrian de Castello , Card. 1518 43 Tho. Wolsey , changed this See for Durham , L. Chan. 1523 44 John Clarke , Master of the Rolls . 1541 45 William Knight . 1549 46 William Barlowe . 1554 47 Gilbert Bourne , Lord President of Wales . 1559 48 Gilbert Barkely . 1584 49 Thomas Godwin . 1592 50 John Still . 1608 51 James Montagu . 1616 52 Arthur Lake . 1626 53 William Laud , trans : to London . 1628 54 Leonard Mawe . 1630 55 Walter Curle , trans . to Winton . 1632 56 William Piers , now Bishop there ▪ 1641. BRISTOL , and the Bishops thereof . THe Bishoprick of Bristol is of new erection , first sounded by King Henry 8. who having had the spoile of the Monasteries , and religious houses , was pleased to refund some of it backe againe upon the Church , for the incouragement of learning , and increase of piety . For this end he procured an Act of Parliament , for the erecting of new Bishopricks by his letters Patents , 31. H. 8. c. 9. and did accordingly erect sixe new Bishops Sees , viz. at Bristol , Oxford , Wesstminster , Gloucester , Peterburgh , and Chester . According to the tenor of which Act , he did immediately erect sixe new Bishopricks on the foundations of such ancient Monasteries , as he thought fittest for that purpose , and most convenient of honour , in regard of their situation : Wherein he failed not any where so much as in this of Bristol , the Diocese thereof being very much distant from the See ; atque alio subsole jacens . Now for this Bishoprick , the seate , thereof is Bristol , as before I said , one of the fairest Cities in the Realme of England ; and a just County in it selfe . The Cathedrall Church is dedicated by the name of Saint Austins , founded by Robert Fitz-Harding sonne to a King of Danemarke , once a Citizen here ; and by him stored with Canons Regular . Anno 1148. But this foundation being dissolved , King H. 8. made it a Bishops See , and placed therein a Deane , and sixe Prebendaries , as it still continueth . For 32. yeeres together in Qu Eliz. time it had never a Bishop , but all that while was held in Commendam by the Bishops of Gloucester : the Patrimony of the Church being in the interim much wasted . The Diocese hereof containeth , besides the City of Bristol , the whole County of Dorset ( belonging heretofore to the See of Salisbury : ) and therein 236. Parishes , of which 64. impropriated . It hath onely one Arch-Deacon , which is he of Dorset ; is valued in the Kinges bookes , 383. li. 8. s. 4. d. and answereth for the tenth of the Clergy , 353. li. 18. s. ob . q. Bishops of Bristol . A. Ch.   1542 1 Paul Bush . 1554 2 John Holiman , died 1558.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1589 3 Richard Fletcher , translated to London . 1593.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1603 4 John Thornbourgh , translated to Worcester . 1617 5 Nicolas Fe●ron , translated to Ely. 1619 6 Jo. Serchfeild . 1622 7 Robert Wright , translated to Lichfeild . 1632 8 George Cooke , translated to Hereford . 1636 9 Robert Skinner , now Bishop there . 1641. CHICHESTER , and the Bishops thereof . THe See of Chichester , was anciently in the Isle of Selsey , not farre from thence : first planted there by Wilfrid Arch-Bishop of Yorke , who being banished his Countrey by Egsride King of the Northumbers , did preach the Gospel to the South-Saxons . To him did Edilwacl● , the South-Saxon King assigne this Iland for his seate ; and after Gedwall King of the West-Saxons , having wonne this Kingdome , built in the same a Monastery , which he made the Bishops See. Here it continued till the time of Bishop Stigand , who first removed the See to Chichester , the principall City of these parts ; first built by Cissa the second King of the South-Saxons , and by him called Cissan-Ceaster . The Cathedrall Church was anciently dedicated to Saint Teter ; new built by Radulph the third Bishop here , after the See removed by Stigand : which being almost all consumed by a raging fire , was afterwards rebuilt and beautified by Siffridus the second . But to proceede , this See hath yeelded to the Church two Saints , to the Realme three Lord Chancellours , to the Court two Almoners , one Chancellour to the University of Oxford : and anciently the Bishops here were Confessours to the Queenes of England , ( for which they have to shew an ancient Charter ) and had allowance for the same . This Diocese containeth the County of Sussex , and in the same : 250. Parishes ; whereof 1 〈…〉 12. impropriated . It hath moreover two Arch-Deacons , viz. of Chichester , and Lewys ; is valued in the Kings bookes , at 677. li. 〈…〉 s. 3. d and answereth for a tenth of the whole Clergy . 287. li. 2. s. ob . q. Bishops of Selsey . A. Ch.     1 Wilfride . 711 2 Eadbertus .   3 Eolla . 733 4 Sigelmus , altas Sigfridus .   5 Alubrith .   6 Osa , vel Bosa .   7 Giselherus .   8 Tota .   9 Wig 〈…〉 n.   10 Ethelulfus .   11 Beornegus .   12 Coen●ede . 131 13 Gutheatd . 960 14 Alfredus . 970 15 Eadhelmus . 980 16 Ethelgarus . 988 17 Ordbright . 〈◊〉 18 Elmar . 1019 19 Ethelricus . 1038 20 Grinketellus . 1047 21 Heca . 1057 22 Agelricus , after whose death the Bishops See and Chaire : was removed to Chichester ; and from henceforth they were entituled by the name of Bishops of Chichester . A. Ch.   1070 23 Stigandus .   24 Gulielmus .   25 Radulphus . 1125 26 Sefsridus .   27 Hilarius . 1174 28 John de Greenford . 1187 29 Seffridus . II. 1199 30 Simon de Welles . 1209 31 Nicolas de Aquila . 1215 32 Richard Poore , 〈◊〉 . to Sallsbury . 1217 33 Radulph de Warham . 1223 34 Radulph de Nevill , L. Chan. * 1245 35 S. Richard sirnamed de la Wich . 1253 36 John Clipping ? 1261 37 Stephen de Berkstede . 1288 38 S. Gilbert de Scon. Leofardo .   39 John de Langton , L. Chan.   40 Robert Stratford , L. Chan. 1362 41 Gul. de Lenn . 1369 42 Gul. Reade . 1385 43 Thomas Rushooke .   44 Richard Mitford , tranflated to Sarum . 1395 45 Robert Waldby . 1396 46 Robert Reade . 1417 47 Stephen Patrington . 1418 48 Henry Ware. 1422 49 John Kempe , transl . to London . 1423 50 Thomas Poldon , translated to Worcester . 1428 51 John Rickingale . 1430 52 Simon Sidenham .   53 Richard Praty , Chancellour of Oxford . 1445 54 Adam Molius , Clerke of the Counsell . 1450 55 Reginald Peacock . 1458 56 John Arundell . 1477 57 Edward Story . 1504 58 Richard Fitz-James , translated to London . 1508 59 Robert Sherborn . 1536 60 Richard Sampson , translated to Lichfeild . 1543 61 George Day . 1551 62 John Scory , after of Hereford . 1557 63 John Christopherson . 1559 64 William Barlowe . 1570 65 Richard Curteys . 1585 66 Thomas Bickley . 1596 67 Anth. Watson , Bishop Almoner . 1605 68 Lancelor Andrewes , 〈◊〉 . to Ely. 1609 69 Sam. Harsenet , tr . to Norwich . 1619 70 George Charleton . 1628 71 Richard Montagu , tr . to Norwich . 1638 72 Brian Duppa , now Bishop and Tutor to the Prince his Highnesse . COVENTRY AND LICHFEILD , and the Bishops thereof . THhe Bishoprick of Coventry and Lichfeild is like that of Bath and Welles ; a double name , a single Diocese . The Bishops See originally at Lichfeild , from thence removed to Chester , and from both to Coventry . Hence is it that the Bishops are called sometimes Cestrenses , sometimes Lichfeildenses , sometimes Coventrienses , and now of late , Bishops of Coventry and Lichfeild . For in the yeere 1088. being that very yeere wherein the See of Welles was removed to Bath ; Robert de Limesey did remove this See to Coventry Hugo Novant , the sixth from him brought it backe to Lichfeild , not without great opposition of the Monkes of Coventry : and in the end , the difference finally was composed by Bishops Savensby , much after the same manner , as before at Welles . For here it was agreed on that the Bishop should be denominated from both places , and that precedencie in the stile Episcopall , should be given to Coventry : that they should choose their Bishop alternatim , in their severall turnes ; that they should both make one Chapter unto the Bishop , in which the Prior of Coventry should be the principall man. And so it stood till that the Priory of Coventry being dissolved by King Henry 8. ( the stile or 〈◊〉 of the Bishop continuing as before it did ) there passed an Act of Parliament 33. H. 8. c. 29 to make the Deane and Chapter of Lichfeild the sole Chapter for the Bishop . The Cathedrall Church here first built by Oswy King of the Mercian● , about the yeere 556. who gave unto the Bishops many faire possessions . But that old Church being taken downe by Roger de Clinton , the 36. Bishop of this Diocese , that which now standeth was built by him in place thereof , Anno 1148. and dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Chad. In sollowingtimes , and almost in the infancie thereof , the revenues of it were so faire , that Lichfeild was thought fit to be the See of an Arch-Bishop . And one it had , no more , his name Adulfus , Anno 783. the Bishops of Winion , Hereford , Sidnacester , Dorchester , ( which two now make Eincoln ) and those of Elmham and of Dunwich ( both which now make Norwich ) being appointed to him for his Suffragans . But with him and King Offa who procured it , this great title died . And now it is content to be a Bishoprick , the Diocese whereof containeth the whole Counties of Darby , and Stafford , together with a good part of Warwickshire and Shropshire . In these are comprehended 557. Parishes , of which 250. are impropriate : for better government whereof , it hath foure Arch-Deacenries , viz. of Stafford , Darby , Coventry , and Shrewsbury . It is valued in the Kings bookes , 559. li. 18. s. 2. d. ob . q. and for the Clergies tenth , it commeth unto 590. li. 16. s. 11. d. q. and finally hath yeelded to the Church three S. to the Realme one Chancellour , and three Lord Treasures ; to Wales three Presidents , one Chancellour to the University of Cambridge , and to the Court one Master of the Wardrobe . Arch-Bishops and Bishops of Lichfeild . A. Ch.   656 1 Dwina . 2 Cellach .   3 Trumher . 4 Jarumanus . 669 5 Saint Chad , or Cedda , tr ; to York . 672 6 Winfridus . 672 7 S. Sexulfus . 692 8 Headda , alias Eatheadus . 721 9 Aldwinus . 733 10 Witta .   11 Hemel . 764 12 Cuthfridus .   13 Bert●●nnus . 785 14 Higbertus . 793 15 Aldulphus the Arch-Bishop .   16 Humbertus .   17 Herewinus .   18 Higbertus . II.   19 Ethelwaldus . 857 20 Humbertus . II. 864 21 Kinebertus . 872 22 S. Cymbertus .   23 Tunbright .   24 Ella . 928 25 Alfgar .   26 Kin●ey .   27 Winsey .   28 Elphegus .   29 Godwinus .   30 Leofgarus .   31 Brithmarus . 1039 32 Wolfius L. Chancell . 1054 33 Leofwine . 1067 34 Petrus , who removed the See to Chester . Bishops of Coventry and Lichfeild . 1088 35 Robert de Limesey , removed the See to Coventry . 1117 36 Robert Peccham . 1119 37 Roger de Clinton . * 1149 38 Walter Durdent . 1161 39 Richard Peche . 1182 40 Gerardus la pucelle . 1186 41 Hugo Novant . 1191 42 Galfridus de Muschamp . 1210 43 Walter Grey , translated to Worcester . 1215 44 William de Cornhull . 1220 45 Alexander de Savensby . 1240 46 Hugh de Pateshul , Lord Treasurer . 1245 47 Roger de Wescham . 1257 48 Roger de Longespee . 1295 49 Walter de Langton , Lord Treasurer . 1322 50 Roger de Northbrook , Master of the Wardrope , and Lord Treasurer . 1360 51 Robert Stretton . 1385 52 Walter Skirlaw , tran● . to Welles . 1395 53 Richard Scrope , tr . to Yorke . * ▪ 1399 54 John Burghill . 1415 55 John Ketterich . 1419 56 Jacobus Caric. 1420 57 Gul. Heyworth . 1447 58 Gul. Boothe . 1452 59 Nicolas Close , Chancellour of Cambridge . 1453 60 Reginald Butler . 1459 61 John Hales . 1492 62 Gul. Smith , tr . to Lincoln . 1496 63 John Arundel , tr . to Exeter . 1503 64 Geofry Blythe , L. Pres . of Wales . 1524 65 Roland Lee , L. Pres . of Wales . 1543 66 Richard Sampson , L. President of Wales . 1555 67 Radulph Bayne . 1559 68 Thomas Bentham . 1578 69 Gul. Overton . 1609 70 George Abbot , tr . to London . 1610 71 Richard Neile , tr . to Lincoln . 1614 72 John Overall , tr . to Norwich . 1618 73 Thomas Morton , tr . to Durbam . 1632 74 Robert Wright , now Bishop of Coventry and Lichfeild . 1641. SAINT DAVIDS , & the Arch-Bishops and Bishops of it . SAint Davids now the seate of a Suffragan Bishop , was once a Metropolitans See in the British Church , and long time the supreme Ordinary of the Welch . In the first planting of the Gospel in King Lucius time , wee shewed that there were three Arch-Bishops seates appointed , viz. at London , York , and of Ca●r-Leon upon Vik . That of Caer-Leon upon Vsk was , in the time of Arthur , King of the Britons , translated further off from the Saxons furie , to a place called Menew , ( Menevia is the Latine name ) but since , in memory of David the Arch-Bishop who so translated it , by us called Saint Davids . From the first name it is , these Bishops use to stile themselves , Menevenses . When Austin the Monk first entred England , the Metropolitan of Saint Davids had then remaining under his jurisdiction seven Suffragan Bishops ; all which gave meeting to the said Austin and his Associates , for the composing of some differences which were between the old and the new-come Christians : viz. the Bishop of Worcester ( Wicciorum ) Llandaff , Bangor , Hereford , Llan-Elwy , or Saint Asaph , Llan-Badern , ( called in Latin Paternensis a place in Cardigan shire , the last is called in Latin Morganensis , which possibly might have his seate in Margan of Glamorgan shire , a place still so called . Of these , Llan-Badern , and this Morganensis are quite extinct , and have long so beene ; Hereford and Worcester a long time reckoned as English Bishopricks , and so none left unto the Metropolitan of S. Davids , but Llandaff , Bangor , & S. Asaphs Now for these Bishops of Saint Davids , we finde that 26. of them retained the title of Arch-Bishops : The last whereof was Sampson , who in a time of pestilence transferd the Archiepiscopall Pall , & with the same the Archiepiscopall dignity to Dole in Bretagne , yet his successours , though they lost the name , reserved the power of an Arch-Bishop : nor did the residue of the Welch Bishops receive their consecration from any other hand then his ; till in the time of H. 〈◊〉 . Bernard the 46. Bishop of this See was forced to submit himselfe to the Church of Canterbury . For the Cathedrall here , it had beene ost spoyled and ruined by the Danes , Norwegians , and other Pirats : as standing neare the Sea , in the extreme corner of Pembroke shire . That which we now see is the worke of Bishop Peter , ( he was the 48. Bishop of this Diocese ) and by him dedicated by the name of Saint Andrew , and Saint David ; though now Saint Andrew be left out , and David onely beares the name . This See hath had the greatest number of Bishops of any in England , 91. in all : and amongst them the Church hath had one Saint , the Realn●e of England three Lord Treasurers , one Lord Privie Seale ; the University of Oxford one Chancellour , and the Queene another . The Diocese containeth the whole Counties of Pembroke , Cardigan , Carmarthen , Radnor , Brecknocke , and some small parts of Monmouth , Hereford , Mountgomery ; and Glamorganshires . In which great quantity of ground there are no more then 308. Parishes , whereof 120. are impropriate . For the more easie government of which here are foure Arch-Deacons , viz. of Cardigan , Garmarthen , Brecknock , and Saint Davids . Finally , it is valued in the Kings bookes , at 457. li. 1. s. 〈◊〉 . d. ob . q. the Clergies tenth amounting unto 336. li. 14. s. 10. d. Arch-Bishops of S. Davids . A. Ch.       519 1 S. Davids . 〈◊〉 Eliud .   3 Theliaus . 4 Kenea .   5 Morvael . 6 Harnurier .   7 Elvaeth . 8 Gurnell .   9 Llendiwith ▪ 10 Gornwist .   11 Gorgan . 12 Eynean .   13 Cledanc . 14 Eludgeth .   15 Eldunen . 16 Elvaoth .   17 Maelsewith . 18 Madeve .   19 Catulus . 20 Silvay .   21 Nanus . 22 Sathveny .   23 Doythwell . 24 Asser . 906 25 Athvael .       26 Sampson , the last Arch-Bishop of the Welch .     Bishops of S. Davids , with Archiepiscopall power .   27 Ruclinus .   28 Lyworch .   29 Nergu .   30 Sulhyder . 942 31 Eneuris . 944 32 Morgeneu .   33 Rhoderick . 961 34 Nathan .   35 Jevan .   36 Argustell .   37 Morgenveth . 998 38 Ervyn . 1038 39 Caermeryn . 1055 40 Joseph .   41 Ble●●●●d . 1070 42 Sulgheym . 1076 43 Abraham . 1088 44 Rithmark .   45 Wilfridus , alias Griffry . 1115 46 Bernardus , Chancellour to Qu. Adeliza , who first submitted himselfe and Church to the See of Cant. Bishops of S. Davids Suffragans to the See of Cant. 1148 47 David Fitz-Gerald . 1176 48 Petrus .   49 Galfridus . 1198 50 Silvester Giraldus . 1215 51 Jorwerth . Vacat sedes per An. 9. 1228 52 Alselmus . 1247 53 Thomas Wallensis . 1255 54 Thomas Carren . 1280 55 Tho. Beck . L. Treas . 1293 56 David de S. Edmundo . 1320 57 David Martyn . 1328 58 Henry Gower . 1347 59 John Thursby , tr . to Wor● . 1349 60 Reginald Brian . tr . to Wor● . 1353 61 Thomas Fastolf . 1361 62 Adam Houghton , Chanc. of Ox. 1369 63 John Gilbert , L. Treas . Vacat sedes An. 4. 1401 64 Guido de Mona , L. Treas . 1409 65 Henry Chicheley , tr . to Cant. 1414 66 John Ketterich , tr . to Lichf . 1415 67 Stephen Patrington , tr . to Chich. 1417 68 Benedict Nicols . 1424 69 Thomas Rodburne . 1435 70 Gul. Lindwood , L. Pr. Seale . 1446 71 John. Langton , Chanc. of Cambr. 1447 72 John Delabere .   73 Robert Tully . 1482 74 Richard Martin . 1483 75 Thomas Langton tr . to Sarum . 1485 76 Hugh Pavy . 1503 77 John Morgan , alias Young. 1504 78 Roger Sherborne , tr . to Chich. 1509 79 Edward Vaughan . 1523 80 Richard Rawlins . 1536 81 William Barlow , tr . to Welles . 1549 82 Robert Farrar . 1554 83 Henry Morgan 1559 84 Thomas Young , tr . to Yorke . 1561 85 Richard Davies . 1567 86 Marmaduke Midleton . Vacat sedes Annos . 4. 1594 87 Anthony Rudd . 1615 88 Richard Milborne , tr . to Carlile . 16●1 89 William Laud , tr . to Welles . 1627 90 Theoph. Feild , tr . to Hereford . 1635 91 Roger Mainwaring , now Bishop of S. Davids . 1641. ELY , and the Bishops of it . THe Church of Ely , anciently was a Monastery : first built by Ethelreda wife to Egfride , King of the Northumbers , and by her planted with religious Virgins , whereof she made her selfe the Abbesse . But her plantation being supplanted by the Danes , and the Church quite ruined , Ethelwold Bishop of Winchester did againe rebuild it , and furnished it with Monkes good store : to whom King Edgar , and the succeeding Kings gave such ample priviledges , and faire possessions , that it did seeme to equall any Church in England . Richard the eleventh Abbat having a minde to quit himselfe of the Bishop of Lincoln , within whose Diocese it stood ; deale with King Henry the first , both with purse and Pater noster , to turne the Abby into a Cathedrall . And though the King asse●ited to it , and that the businesse was transacted with the Bishop of Lincoln , ( who had three Manors of this Abby , viz. Spaldwick , Biggleswad , and Bockden , in exchange for his jurisdiction : ) yet Richard lived not to possesse it , leaving the benefit of his industry and ambition to be enjoyed by another man , which was one Hervey , Bishop of Bungor . As for the Church now standing , it is the worke of severall Bishops : the west parts being with great charge repaired by Bishop Ridall or new built rather ; as were the Quire and Lanterne by Bishop No●wold , which afterwards were fully finished by Bishop Fordham . The whole Church dedicated to S. Ethelred . Ely thus made a Bishoprick , however fortified with great priviledges , ( for in the Isle of Ely the Bishops had all rights of a County Palatine● ) and that it was endowed with so great possessions , as hardly any better in the Realme of England , hath yet beene subject to those changes which time hath wrought . For many of the Palatine rights were taken off , or much restrained by the Act of Parliament , touching restoring to the crowne the antient royalties , 27. H. 8. c. 25. in the which Act it was enacted , that ( instead thereof ) the Bishop of Ely , and his temporall Steward for the Isle of Ely , should from thenceforth be Iustices of the peace in the said Iland . However Ely may be still reputed amongst the first Bishopricks of the second ranke : and may rejoyce 〈◊〉 selfe in this , that it yeelded to this Realme as many great officers as any other in the Kingdome . For it hath given the state● no lesse then nine Lord Chancellours , seven Lord Treasurers , one Lord Privie Seale , one Chancellour of the University of Oxford , one of the Exchequer , two Masters of the● Rolls 〈◊〉 besides two Saints unto the Church , two Gardinals to the Church of Rome , and to the English Court three Almoners . The Diocese hereof containeth onely Cambridg●shire , and the Isle of Ely 〈◊〉 in which there are 14● . Ra●ishes . whereof 75● impropriate . It hath but one Arch-Deacon , which is he of Ely ; is valued in the Kings bookes , 2134. li. 18. s. 5. d. ob . q. the Clergies tenth amounting to the summe of 384. li. 14. s. 9. d. q. Bishops of Ely. A. Ch.   1109 1 Hervey , Bishop of Bangor . 1133 2 Nigellus , Lord Treasurer . 1174 3 Galfridus Rydall . 1189 4 Gul. Longchamp , L. Chan. 1198 5 Eustachius , L. Chan. 1219 6 S. John de Fontibus , L. Treas . 1225 7 Galfredus de Burgo . 1229 8 Hugh Norwold . 1255 9 Gul. de Kilkenny , L. Chan. 1257 10 S. Hugh Balsam . 1286 11 Joh. de Kirby , L. Treas . 1290 12 Gul. de Luda . 1299 13 Radulfe Walpoole . 1302 14 Rob. Orford . 1310 15 Joh. de Keeron . 1316 16 Joh. Ho●ham . Ch. of the Exch. L. Chan. and L. Treas . 1336 17 Simon Montacute . * 1344 18 Tho. Lyde . 1361 19 Sim. Langham , L. Chan. and tr . to Cant. 1366 20 Joh. Barnet , L. Tr. 1375 21 Tho. Arundel , L. Chan. transl . to Yorke . * 1388 22 Joh. Fordham . 1425 23 Phil. Morgan , L. Pr. Seale . 1435 24 Lewis of Luxembourg , Card. * 1443 25 Tho. Bourchier , Card. translated to Cant. * 1454 26 Wil. Grey , L. Treas . * 1478 27 Joh. Morton , Master of the Rolls . L. Chan. 1486 28 Joh. Alcock , Master of the Rolls . 1501 29 Rich Redman . 1506 30 James Stanley . * 1515 31 Nicolas West . 1534 32 Tho. Goodrich , L. Chan. 1554 33 Tho. Thirlby . 1559 34 Rich. Cox , Alm. Chan. Oxford . Vacat sedes , Annos 20. 1599 35 Martin He●on . 1609 36 Lancel . Andrewes , Alm. transl . to Wint. 1618 37 Nicolas Felton . 1627 38 Joh. Buckeridge . 1631 39 Francis White , Bishop Almoner . 1638 40 Matthew Wrenn , Deane of the Chappell , now Bishop of Ely 1641. EXETER , and the Bishops there . THe Diocese of Exeter containeth that in it , which was once two Bishopricks . For at the first planting of the Church in these westerne parts , it was thought convenient to erect two Bishops Sees , the one for Cornwall at S. Germans ; the other for Devonsh . at Cridington , now Kinton , a small Village . But that of Cornwall , being annexed to Cridington , about the yeere 1032. both were , not long after , removed to Exeter , the most noted City of these parts , where it still continueth . Now for the Church of Exeter it was once a Monastery , founded by King Athelstane , and by him dedicated unto Saint Peter-Edward the Confessour , removing all the Monkes from hence to Westminster , which he had newly founded and endowed , made it the Bishops See for Devonsh . and Corne wall , then united . The Church as now it standeth doth owe it selfe to severall Patrons ; the Quire to Bishop Warlwast , the body of the Church to Bishop Quivil , the side Isles to Grandison : that which is now our Ladies Chappell , being a remnant of the old fabrick . The Patrimony thereof once very large , was wasted and destroyed by Bishop Voisie : who being made Bishop here by King Henry 8. fate out the residue of his raigne , and all K. Edwards , and some part of Queene Maries also . For whereas at his comming hither , he found the Church possessed of 22. goodly Manors , and 14. Mansion houses richly furnished : he lest not above seven or eight of the worst . Manors , and those let out in long leases ; and charged with pensions ; and not abovè two houses , both bare and naked ; of which see Bishop Godwins Catalogue , and Powels History of Wales . This Diocese hath yeelded to the Realme of England , three Lord Chancellours , two Lord Treasurers , one LordPresident of Wales ; and to the University of Oxford , one Chancellour . It containeth in it the two Counties of Devon , and Cornwall , and in them 604 Parish Churches , whereof 239. are impropriate ; for government whereof it hath foure : Arch-Deacons , viz. of Cornwall , Exeter , Barnestable , and Taw●on . The Bishoprick was once valued at 1566. li. 14. s. 6. d. But since the diminution , or destruction rather , made by Bishop Voisie ; it is now valued at 500. l. just . The Clergies tenth here very high , or mounting to the sum of 1240. li. 15. s. 2. d. ob . Now for the marshalling of the Bishops of this once divided Diocese , we will present you with those of Devo●shire and Cornwall , columne-wise , one against the other , according to their time and order , untill wee meete them both in the Church of Exeter . Bishops of Devonsh . Cornwall . A. Ch.         905 1 Eadulphus . 905 1 Athelstan . 906 2 Putta .   2 Conanus . 910 3 Eadulfus . II.   3 Ruidocus . 932 4 Ethelgarus .   4 Aldredus . 942 5 Algarus .   5 Britwinus . 952 6 Alswoldus .   6 Athelstā . II 972 7 Alswolfus .   7 Wolfi . 981 8 Sidemannus   8 Woronus . 990 9 Alfredus .   9 Wolocus . 999 10 Alswoldus . II.   10 S●idio . 1014 11 Eadnothus .   11 Aldredus . 1032 12 Liningus , who after the death of Burwoldus Bishop of Cornwall , procured that Bishoprick to bee annexed unto his owne : which was no sooner done , but that his next successour removed both to Exeter ; since when the Bishops have beene called   12 Burwoldus , the last Bishop of Cornwall . Bishops of Exeter . A. Ch.   1049 1 Leofricus , who removed the See to Exeter . 1079 2 Osbernus . 1107 3 William Warlewast . 1122 4 Robert Chichester . 1150 5 Robert Warlewast . 1159 6 Bartholm . Iscanus . 1186 7 Johannes . 1191 8 Henry Marshall . 1206 9 Simon de Apulia . 1224 10 Gul. Brewer . 1245 11 Richard Blondy . 1257 12 Walter Bronescomb . 1280 13 Peter Quivill . 1293 14 Thomas Button . 1307 15 Walter Stapleton , L. Treas . 1326 16 Jamēs Barkeley . * 1327 17 John Grandison . * 1370 18 Thomas Brentinsham . L. Treas . 1395 19 Edm. Stafford , L. Chan. * 1419 20 John Ketterich . 1419 21 John Carle . 1420 22 Edm Lacy. 1455 23 George Nevill , L. Chan. and Chan. of Oxford , tr . to Yorke . * 1466 24 John Boothe . 1477 25 Peter Courtney , tr . to Winton . * 1486 26 Richard Foxe , tr . to Weles . 1492 27 Oliver King , tr . to Welles . 1495 28 Richard Redman . 1501 29 John Arundell . 1504 30 Hugh Oldham . 1519 31 John Voysie , L. Pres . of Walles . 1551 32 Miles Goverdale . 1556 33 James Turberville . 1560 34 Gul. Alley . 1570 35 Gul. Bradbridge . 1579 36 John Woolton . 1594 37 Gervase Babington . 1598 38 Gul. Cotton . 1621 39 Valentine Cary. 1627 40 Joseph Hall , now Bishop of Exeter . 1641. GLOCESTER , and the Bishops there . GLocester was anciently the scate of a British Bishop , whose stile sometimes occurres in the subscriptions of Synodicall Acts , by the name of Cluviensis ; this towne being formerly called Clevid , as Camden noteth . And I remember that I have seene in the Palace os Glocester , the name of ✚ ✚ ✚ said to bee Bishop there in the Britons time . But whether it were so or not ; or whether Glocester were a Bishoprick in those dayes of old , is not materiall to our purpose . For that which was , was brought to nothing by the Saxons , and when they entertained the faith of Christ , it was first under the authority of the Bishops of Lichfeild , as afterwards of those of Worcester . But in these later dayes it was dismembred from that Diocese , and by King Henry 8. made a Bishops See , what time the rest of new erection were by him founded , as we have spoke before , when we were in Bristol . Now for the indowment of this Bishopricke by him erected , ( besides a Chapter of a Deane , and sixe Prebendaries by him so founded ) he assigned over all , or most of the lands , unto the ancient Monasteries here , once belonging : which being first built by Aldred , Arch-Bishop of Yorke , and Bishop of Worcester , and afterwards repaired by Hanley , Farley , Mo●went , Herton , Trowcester , and Sebroke , severall Abbats here , became in fine to be , what it still continueth , one of the fairest Fabricks in the Realme of England . The Diocese containing onely Glocester shire , hath in it 267. Parishes , whereof 125 are impropriations ; and one Archdeacon , being called of Glocester . Valued it is in the Kings bookes , 315. li. 17. s. 2. d. according to the estimate thereof at the first foundation : though in two vacancies which it had in Queene Eliz. time , much of the lands were taken from it ; ( sor which see what was said before in the case of Ely. ) And for a tenth of all , the Clergie pay unto the King 358. l. 15. s. Bishops of Glocester . A. Ch.   1541 1 John Wakeman , last Abbat o Tewkesbury . 1550 2 John Hooper . 1555 3 James Brookes . Vacat sedes Ann. 3. 1562 4 Kichard Cheinie . Vacat sedes Ann. 3. 1581 5 John Bullingham . 1598 6 Godfr Goldsbourgh . 1604 7 Thomas Ravys , tr . to London . 160● 8 Henry Parry , tr . to Wo●cest . 1611 9 Giles Tomson . 1612 10 Miles Smith . 1624 11 Godfr . Goodman , now Bishop there . 1641. HEREFORD , and the Bishops there . HEreford also was of old one of the Bisho pricks erected in the Britons time ; sirst under the Metropolitan of Caer-Leon upon Vske , of Saint Davids afterwards , and when these parts were conquered by the Saxon Kings , it came to be a member of the Province of Canterbury . The Carhedrall Church here founded first by Milfride , one of the Noblemen of this County in honor of Ethelbert , King of the East Angles treacherously made away by the Queene of Mercia , his intended mother in law . That which now standeth , oweth the most part of it selfe to Bishop Reinelm ; and what he lived not to performe , was finished ? by his ▪ successours , as they had either meanes or opportunity . The Diocese hereof containeth the Co●nty of Hereford , and part of Shrop-shird ; wherein it hath 313. parish Churches , of which 166. are impropriations : and for the government hereof , hath two Arch-Deacons , viz. of Hereford and Salop. It hath affordediro the Church one Saint , to the state two Chancellours , and three Lord Treasurers , one Deputy to the Realme of Ireland , two Chancellours to the University of Oxford , and one unto the Queenes of England . Finally 〈…〉 valued in the Kings bookes , 768. li. 10. s. 6. d. ob . q. the tenth of the Clergy comming 〈…〉 3●0 . li. 2. 5. 2. d. ob . Bishops of Hereford . A. Ch.   680 1 Putta .   2 Tirtellus .   3 Torteras .   4 Wastoldus . 740 5 Cuthbertus .   6 Podda .   7 Ecca .   8 Cedda . 857 9 Albertus .   10 Esna . 885 11 Gelmund .   12 Utellus .   13 Wulfehard .   14 Benna .   15 Edulfus .   16 Cuthwolfus .   17 Mucellus .   18 Deorlaf .   19 Cnnemond .   20 Edgar .   21 Tidhelm .   22 Wulfehelm .   23 Alsricus .   24 Athulfus .   25 Athelstan . 1055 26 Leovegard . Vacat sedes Ann. 4. 1060 27 Walterus . 1079 28 Robert Losinga .   29 Gerrardus , 〈◊〉 to Yorke . 1107 30 Reinelmus Chan. to the Queene . 1115 31 Galfredus de Cliva . 1120 32 Richardus . 1131 33 Robert de Betun . 1149 34 Gilbert Foliot , ●r . to London . 1162 35 Robert de Melun . 1174 36 Robert Folion 1186 37 Gul. de Vero , 1200 38 Egidius de Bruse . 1216 39 Hugh de Mapemore . 1219 40 Hugh Folior . 1234 41 Radulph de Maydestone . 1239 42 Peter de Eg●eblad● . 1268 43 John Breton , the geat Lawyer . 1275 44 S. Thomas Canterupe , 〈◊〉 of Oxford , and L. Chan. 1282 45 Richard Swinfeild . 1317 46 Adam de Orlton , L. 〈◊〉 . translto Worcest . 1327 47 Thomas Carlton , Deputy of Ireland , and L. Treas . 1344 48 John Trilleck . 1361 49 Lud. Charlton . 1369 50 Gul. Courtney , tr . to London . * 1376 51 John Gilbert , L. Treas . tr . to S. Davids . 1389 52 John Treffant . 1405 53 Robert Mascall . 1417 54 Edm. Lacy , tr . to Exeter . 1420 55 Tho. Polton , tr . to Chichess . 1422 56 Tho. Spofford . 1448 57 Rich. Beauchamp , tr . to Sarum , * 1450 58 Reginald Butler . * 1453 59 John Staubery . 1574 60 Tho. Milling . 1492 61 Edm. Audley , tr . to Sarum . * 1502 62 Adrian de Castello , tr . to Welles . 1504 63 Rich. Mayo , Chan. of Oxford . 1516 64 Charles Boothe . 1535 65 Edward Foxe . 1539 66 John Skipp . 1553 67 John Harley . 1554 68 Robert Persewe . 1559 69 John Scorie . 1585 70 Herbert Westfaling . 1602 71 Robert Benner ,   72 Francis Godwin . 1633 73 Augustin Lindsell . 1634 74 Matthew Wrenn . 1635 75 Theophilus Feild . 1636 76 Ge●● Cooke , now Bishop . 1639. LLANDAFF , and the Bishops there . LLandaff is one of the most ancient Bishops Sees either in England or Wales ; and claimeth a direct succession from the Arch-Bishops of Caerleon upon Vske , as unto the Bishopricke ; though for the Metropolitan dignity it bee content to let S. Davids , have what is left thereof . The first Bishop here , of whom is any good record , is S. Dubritius , consecrate Bishop of this places by Lupus and Germanus , what time they came hither out of France , for the extirpation of the Pelagian heresie . The Church here dedicated to S. Thelians , the next successour to S. Dubritius ; founded upon the River Taffi , and thence called Llandaff ; Llan , in the Welch tongue , signifying a Church ; a Church very well endowed by the munificence and piety of great persons in those times : so well , that as it is affirmed by Bishop Godwin , were it possessed now of the tenth part onely of what once it had , it might be reckoned one of the richest Churches in all Christendome . The ruine of it came in the time of Bishop Dunstan , alias Kitchin , who thereupon is called sundi nostri calamitas by Bishop Godwin ; The Diocese containeth onely part of Glamorganshire , and part of Momnouthshire , though the most of each : and in those parts , 177. Parishes , whereof 98. impropriations and for them one ▪ Arch-Deacon , which is called of Llandaff . The Bishopricke is valued in the Kings bookes , 154. li. 14. s. 1. d. the Clergy paying for their tenth , somewhat neere that summe , viz. 155. li. 5. s. 4. d. It is to be observed , or may be if it please the Reader , that neither here , nor at Saint Davids , there is any Deane , nor never was in any of the times before us : the Bishop being head of the severall Chapters ; and in his absence the Arch-Deacon here , as is the Chanter at S. Davids . Bishops of Llandaff . A. Ch.     1 S. Dubritius . 522 2 S. Telian , alias Eliud .   3 S. Oudoceus .   4 Ubilwmus .   5 Ardanus .   6 ●●gistil .   7 Limapejus .   8 Comegern .   9 Argwistill .   10 Garvan .   11 Guodioin .   12 Edilbmus .   13 Grecielus .   14 Berrhgwen .   15 Trychan .   16 Elvogus .   17 Cargwaret .   18 Cerenhir .   19 Nobis .   20 Gulfridus .   21 Nudd .   22 Cimelianc .   23 Libian .   24 Marclnith .   25 Pater . 982 25 Gogwan . 993 27 Bledri . 1022 28 Joseph . 1056 29 Herewaldus . 1107 30 Urbanus . Vacat sedes Annos . 6. 1139 31 Uhtred . 1148 32 Galfridus . 1153 33 Nicolas ap Gurgaur . 1183 34 Gul. de Salso Marisco .   35 Henricus . 1219 36 Gulielmus . 1229 37 Elias de Radnor . 1244 38 Gul. de Burgo . 1253 39 John La Wate . 1256 40 Gul. de Radner . 1265 41 Gul. de Brews . Vacat sedes Annos 9. 1296 42 John Monumeteus . 1323 43 John Eglescliffe . 1347 44 John Pascall . 1362 45 Roger Cradoc . 1383 46 Thomas Rushooke , translated to Chichester . 1385 47 Gul. de Bottlesham , translated to Rochester . 1389 48 Edm. Bromfeld . 1391 49 Tidemannus , translated to Worcester . 1395 50 Andrew Barrer .   51 John Burghill , translated to Lichfeild . 1399 52 Thomas Peverell , translated to Worcester . 1408 53 John Zouch . * 1423 54 John Wells . 1441 55 Nicolas Ashby . 1458 56 John Hunden .   57 John Smith . 1478 58 John Marshall .   59 John Ingleby . 1504 60 Miles Salley . 1516 61 George Athequa . 1537 62 Robert Holgate , translated to Yorke . 1545 63 Anthony Kitchin. Vacat sedes , Annos . 3. 1566 64 Hugh Jones . 1575 65 Gul. Blethin . 1591 66 Gervase Babington , translated to Oxford . 1595 67 William Morgan , tr . the Bible into Welch . 1601 68 Francis Godwin , tr . to Hereford . 1618 69 George Carleton , tr . to Chich. 1619 70 Thoph . Feild , tr . to S. Davids . 1628 71 John Murrey , Bishop of Kilfanore in Ireland . 1639 72 Morgan Owen , now Bishop there 1641. LINCOLN , and the Bishops there . THe Bishopricke of Lincoln , like that of Exeter , was once two Dioceses : the Bishops of the which had their severall seates , the one at Dorchester now a private Village , seven miles from Oxford ; the other at Sidnacester , not farre from Gainsburgh , ( as Camden thinkes ) in the County of Lincoln , the ruines of the which are now invisible . But Sidnacester being in little time united unto Dorchester ; the Bishops See was not long after removed to Lincoln : and that by reason of a Canon made about that time , viz. An. 1075. by which all Bishops were enjoyned to live in the most famous and conspicuous place within their Dioceses . Which was the cause , why many of our Bishops did about this time remove their Sees ; as we have seene already , and shall see hereafter . For the Cathedrall Church here , it s of no more standing then the removall of the Bishops See to this place from Dorchester ; that which was once here founded by Paulinus , Arch-Bishop of Yorke , having beene long before this time quite ruined . But when Remigius translated hither the Episcopall Chaire , hee also built this Church for receipt thereof . Which being not long after defaced by fire , was for the most part repaired and beautified by Bishop Alexander , one of his successours : but brought unto that state in which now it is , by Hugh of Burgundy , and certaine other of the Bishops the Church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary , and All Saints . As for the Diocese , it is the greatest still for jurisdiction , and was once one of the greatest for revenue in all the Kingdom . But for the jurisdiction that hath been shortned , though at severall times : the Bishoprick of Ely being taken out of it by King Henry the first , as those of Peterburgh , and Oxford , by King Henry 8. yet still it is the largest Diocese in all the Kingdome ; containing the whole Counties of Lincoln , Leicester , Huntingdon , Bedford , Buckingham , and part of Herefordshire . In which great quantity of ground , there are 1255. Parishes , whereof 577. are impropriations ; for government of which under the Diocesan , there are sixe Arch-Deacons , viz. of Lincoln , Leicester , Bedford , Buckingham , Stow , & Huntingdon . The Clergies tenth is answerable unto this great extent of jurisdictiō , being no lesse then 1751. li. 14. s. 6. d. The Bishoprick being valued at 894. li. 10. s. 1. d. 0b . in the K. bookes . Now for the dignity of this feare , wee will adde but this , that it hath yeelded to the Church three Saints , and to Rome one Cardinall ; unto the realme of England sixe Lord Chancellours , and one Lord Treasurer , and one Lord Keeper ; foure Chancellours to the University of Oxford , two to Cambridge ; And that the Bishops here , were heretofore Vice chancellours to the See of Canterbury , Which being thus premised , I shall proceede in ordering the Bishops here , as I did at Exeter . Bishops of Sidnacester . A. ch .   678 1 Eadhedus .   2 Ethelwinus .   3 Edgar .   4 Kinelbertus . 733 5 Alwigh . 751 6 Eadulfus . 764 7 Ceolulfus . 787 8 Eadulfus , II. after whose death this Church being a long time vacant , was joyned to Dorchester . Bishops of Dorchester . 635 1 Birinus . 650 2 Agilbertus .   ✚ ✚ ✚ 737 3 Tota . 764 4 Edbertus .   5 Werenbertus . 768 6 Unwora . 816 7 Rethunus . 851 8 Aldredus . 873 9 Ceolredus .   10 Halardus .   ✚ ✚ ✚ 905 11 Ceolulfus .   12 Leoswinus , who first united the See of Sadnacester , unto that of Dorchester . 960 13 Ailnothus .   14 Asewinus .   15 Alshelinus .   16 Eadnothus . 1016 17 Eadhericus . 1034 18 Eadnothus . II. 1052 19 Ulsus Normannus . 1053 20 Wulfinus , after whose death Remizius his successour removed the Bishops See to Lincoln , who from hence forward are to be entituled Bishops of Lincoln . 1070 21 Remigius de Feschamp S. 1092 22 Robert Bloet . L. Chan. 1123 23 Alexander , L. Chan. 1147 24 Robert de Chesney . Vacat sedes , Annos 17. 1183 25 Walter de Constantiis , L. Chan. 1186 26 S. Hugh . 1203 27 Gul. Bleserrsis . Vacat , Annos 3. 1209 28 Hugo Wallis , L. Chan. 1235 29 Robert Grosthead . 1254 30 Henry Lexington . 1258 31 Benedict de Gravesend . 1280 32 Oliver Sutton . 1300 33 John Aldbery . 1319 34 Thomas Beake . 1320 35 Henry Eurwesh , L. Treas . * 1341 36 Thomas Le Beck . 1351 37 John Sinwell . 1363 38 John Bokingham . 1397 39 Henry Beauford . * 1405 40 Phil. de Repingdon , Card. Ch. Ox. 1420 41 Richard Flemming . 1431 42 Gul. Grey . 1436 43 Gul. Alnwick . 1450 44 Marm. Lumley , Chan. Camb. 1452 45 John Chadworth . 1471 46 Thomas Rotheram , Lord Chancel . and Ch. cambr . 1480 47 John : Russell , Lord Chan. and Chan. Oxford . Vacat Annos 5. 1495 48 Gul. Smith , Chan. Oxford . 1412 49 Thomas Wolsey Almoner , trransl . to Yorke . 1414 50 Gul. Atwater . 1521 51 John Longland , Chan. Oxford . 1547 52 Henry 〈…〉 bech . 1552 53 John Tayler . 1553 54 John White . 1557 55 Thomas Watson . 1559 56 Nicolas Bullingham . 1570 57 Thomas Cowper , tr . to Winton . 1584 58 Will. Wickham , tr . to Winton . 1594 59 Will. Chadderton . 1608 60 Will. Barlowe . 1613 61 Rich. Neyle , tr . to Durham . 1617 62 Geo. Monteine , tr . to London . 1921 63 John Williams , L. Keeper , now Bishop of Lincoln . 1641. LONDON , and the Bishops there . LOndon was heretofore the principall of the three Arch-bishopricks amongst the Britons , and by Pope Gregory was intended to have beene so too amongst the English : but that Saint Austin whom hee sent to convert the Saxons , liking of Canterbury well , resolved to set his staffe up there , without going further . This had before beene prophecied by Merlin , that Dignitas Londoniae adornaret Doroberniam , and was now accomplished . What , and how many were the Arch-bishops here , we have no good Constat . Sixteene are named by Bishop Godwin , but with no great confidence : but howsoever doe nor come within my compasse , who have confined my selfe to the Saxons time , in the first infancie of whose conversion , this City was designed for a Bishops See. The Cathed , Church built also in those early dayes by Ethelbert , the first Christian King of all the English ; but afterwards much beautified and enlarged by Erkenwald , the fourth Bishop . Which Church of theirs being 500. yeeres after destroyed by fire : that which now stands was built in the place thereof , by Mauritius , Richardus his successour , and certaine others of the Bishops ; a great part of it at their owne charge , the residue by a generall contribution over all the Kingdome . And when it was defaced by fire in the late Queenes time , An. 1561. the Qu. forthwith directed her letters to the Major of London , willing him ( as Iohn Stowe , the City Chronicler reports it ) to take order for speedy repairing of the same : which was done accordingly . The Bishop of this Diocese hath precedencie before all Bishops of the Realme , next the two Arch-bishops , together with the dignity and place of Deane , unto the Metropolitan See of Canterbury . The nature of which office is , not onely to preside over the rest of the Bishops at Synodicall meetings , in case the Metropolitan be absent : but to receive his mandats , for assembling Synods , and other businesse of the Church ; and having so received them , to intimate the tenour and effect thereof to the Suffragan Prelates . Examples of the which see in the Acts and Monuments . And for this Diocese it selfe , it containeth in it the two Counties of Middlesex , and Essex , with that part of Hertsordshire , which is not in the Diocese of Lincoln : wherein are reckoned 623. Parishes , and of them 189. impropriated : for government whereof there are five Arch-Deacons , viz. of London , Middlesex , Essex , Colchester , and Saint Albans . Valued it is in the Kings bookes 1119. li. 8. s. 4. d. the Clergies tenth amounting to the summe of 821. li 15. s. 1. d. Finally , this See hath yeelded to the Church three Saints , to the State nine Lord Chancellours , sixe Lord. Treasurers , one Chancellour of the Exchequer , two Masters of the Rolls , besides foure Almoners to the Court , and two Chancellours to the University of Oxford ; whose names occurre amongst these following . Bishops of London . 606 1 S. Melitus , tr . to Cant.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 654 2 Ceadda . 666 3 Wina . 665 4 S. Erkonwald . 685 5 Waldherus .   6 Ingualdus .   7 Egwolfus .   8 Wighed .   9 Eadbright .   10 Edgarus .   11 Kenwalchus .   12 Eadbaldus .   13 Hecbertus . 801 14 Osmundus , alias Oswinus . 833 15 Ethelnothus .   16 Ceolbertus .   17 Renulfus , alias Ceonulfus ,   18 Suithulfus . 851 19 Eadslanus . 860 20 Wulfius .   21 Ethelwardus .   22 Elstan . 898 23 Theodredus .   24 Walstanus .   25 Brithelmus . 958 36 Dunstanus , S. tr . to Cant. 962 27 Alfstanus .   28 Wulfstanus .   29 Alhumus .   30 Alwy .   31 Elfwardus . 1044 32 Robert Normannus . 1050 33 Gul. Normannus . 1070 34 Hugo de Orevalle . 1087 35 Mauritius , L. Chan. 1108 36 Richard de Beaumis . 1128 37 Gilbertus . Vacat sedes , Annos 7. 1140 38 Robert de Sigillo . 1151 39 Richard Beaumis . II. 1161 40 Gilbert Folior . 1189 41 Richard Nigellus , L. Treas . 1199 42 Gul. de S. Maria. 1222 43 Eustatius de Falconbridge . Chan. of the Exchequer , and L. Treas . * 1229 44 Roger Nigor . 1244 45 Fulco Basset . * 1259 46 Henry de Wingham . , L. Treas . 1261 47 Richard Talbot . 1263 48 Henry de Sandwich . 1274 49 John de Chisul . L. Chan. and L. Treas . 1280 50 Richard de Gravesend . 1305 51 Radulf de Baldock , L. Chan. 1313 52 Gilbert Segrave . 1317 53 Richard Newport . 1318 54 Stephen Gravesend . 1338 55 Richard Bentworth , L. Chan. 1339 56 Radulf Straford . 1355 57 Nicol. Northbrooke . 1361 58 Sim. Sudbury , tr . to Cant. 1375 59 Gul. Courtney , Chan. Ox. transl . to Cant. * 1381 60 Rob Braybroke . 1404 61 Roger Walden , L. Treas . 1406 62 Nicolas Bubweth , Master of Rolls , and L. Treas . 1407 63 Richard Giffard . 1421 64 John Kemp. L. Chan tr . to Cant. 1426 65 Gul. Grey , tr . to Lincoln . 1431 66 Robert Fitz-Hugh . * 1435 67 Robert Gilbert . 1449 68 Thomas Kemp. 1489 69 Richard Hill. 1497 70 Thomas Savage . 1500 71 Will. Warham , L. Chan. transl . to Cant. 1505 72 William Barnes . 1506 73 Richard Fitz-James . 1522 74 Cutbert Tunstall , tr . to Durham . 1530 75 John Stokesley . 1540 76 Edm. Bonner , displa . by K. Edw. 6. 1549 77 Nicolas Ridley , displaced by Qu. Mary , and Bonner restored againe , 1553. 1559 78 Edm. Grindall , tr . to Yorke . 1570 79 Edwin Sandis , tr . to Yorke . 1576 80 John Elmer , Bishop Almoner . 1594 81 Richard Fletcher , Bishop Almoner 1597 82 Richard Bancroft , tr . to Cant. 1604 83 Richard Vaughan . 1607 84 Thomas Ravis . 1609 85 George Abbot , tr . to Cant. 1611 86 John King. 161 87 George Monteine , Bishop Almoner . 1628 88 Will. Laud. Ch. Oxford , transl . to Cant. 1633 89 William Juxon , Bishop of London , and L. Treas . 1641. NORWICH , and the Bishops there . THe Diocese of Norwich , like those of Exeter and Lincoln , was once two Bishopricks : the one of Suffolk , whose seate was D 〈…〉 ich on the Sea shoare ; the other of Norfolk , whose See was at North-Elmham , now a poore Village not farre from Repeham . The Bishop of the first was Felix a Burgundian , who first converted the East-Angles . The third from him was Bisus , who finding himselfe , by reason of his age , too weake for so great a burden , divided his Diocese into two , making North Elmham the Episcopall seate for that part of the whole which we now call Norfolke . Both of them lay long dead in the times of the Danish furie : that of North-Elmham after an hundred yeeres desolation , reviving onely ; the other laid to rest for ever . North Elmham thus possessed of the whole jurisdiction , could not hold it long : the Bishops . See being removed to Thelford first by Herfastus ; as afterwards from thence to Norwich by Herebert Losinga . There it hath since continued till these very times , though nothing else continue of it but the See alone , For all the lands thereto belonging were taken from it by King Henry the 8. those which did formerly appertaine unto the Monastery of Saint Bennets in the Holme ( by that King dissolved ) being assigned unto it by exchange . For which consult , the Statute , 32. H. 8. 47. in the which Statute it is said that the lands given in recompence were of a greater yeerely value then those taken from it . So that the Bishop , as it seemes , got in revenue then , though he lost in priviledge . For whereas the Bishops here had the first fruits of all the Benefices within the Diocese , by an ancient custome : that was united to the Crowne by Act of Parliament , 26. H. 8. c. 3. Now for the Church of Norwich , it was founded first by him who first removed hither the Bishops See , even by Herebertus Losinga ; and by him dedicated to the blessed Trinity : Which being much defaced by fire , ( which was it seemes , a common calamity of all the Churches of those times ) was afterwards repaired by Iohn of Oxford , the third after him ; and once againe being fire-touched , by Bishop Midleton , who brought it to that state in which now it stands . This See hath yeelded to the Church two Saints , to the Realme five Chancellours , one Lord Treasurer , and one Lord Chiefe Justice , one Bishop Almoner to the Court , and to the King one principall Secretary of State. The Diocese containeth in the two Counties of Norfolke and Suffolke , 1121. Parish Churches , whereof 385. impropriate : for better ordering of the which it hath foure Arch-Deacons , viz. of Norwich , Norfolke , Suffolke , and Sudb●ry . Finally , this Bishoprick is valued in the King's bookes , 899. li. 18. s 7. d. ob . The tenth of the whole Clergy amounting to the summe of 1117. li. 13. s. ob . Now for the line of Norwich it is thus drawne downe . Bishops of the East-Angles . A. Ch.   630 1 S Felix . 647 2 Thomas Diaconus . 652 3 Bregilfus . 665 4 Bisus , by whom this Diocese was divided into those of Elmham . Dunwich .   1 Bedwinus .   1 Acca .   2 Northbertus .   2 Astwolfus .   3 Headulacus . 734 3 Eadfarihus .   4 Eadilfredus .   4 Cuthwinus .   5 Lanferthus .   5 Aldberthus .   6 Athelwolsus .   6 Aglafius .   7 Alcarus .   7 Hardulfus .   8 Sibba .   8 Aelphunus .   9 Alherdus .   9 Thedfridus .   10 S. Humbertus , after whose death , both Sees lay vacant for the space of 100. yeeres .   10 Werēundus .         11 Wilredus . the last Bishop of Dunwich . 955 11 Astulphus , Bishop of both Sees .   12 Alfridus .   13 Theodredus .   14 Athelstan .   15 Algarus .   16 Alwinus .   17 Alfricus . 1038 18 Alifrejus .   19 Stigandus , tr . to Winton . 1043 20 Grinketell . 1047 21 Ethelmar . 〈◊〉 22 Herfastus , who removed the See to Thetford , L. Chan.   23 Gul. Galsagus , L. Chan. after whose death the Bishops See was removed to Norwich , and his successours thence intituled Bishops of Norwich . 1088 24 Herebert Losinga , L. Chan. 1120 25 Everardus . 1151 26 Gul. Turbus . 1177 27 John Oxford . 1200 28 John Grey , L. Chiefe Justice . Vacat Annos . 7. 1222 29 Pandulphus . 1226 30 Tho. de Blundeville . 1236 31 Radulphus . Vacat Annos 3. 1239 32 Gul. Ralegh , tr . to Winton . 1244 33 Walter de Sufeild . 1253 34 Simon de Wantam . 1268 35 Roger de Skerwing . 1278 36 Gul. Middleton . 1288 37 Radul . Walpoole , translated to Ely. 1299 38 John Salmon , L. Chan. 1325 39 Robert Baldock , Lord Chancellour . 1325 40 William Ayermyn , Lord Keeper , and L. Treas . 1337 41 An● de Beck .   42 Gul Bateman . 1354 43 Tho. Percy . * 1370 44 Henry Spencer . 1408 45 Alexander . 1413 46 Richard Courtney . * 1416 47 John Wakering . 1426 48 Gulielmus Alnwick , translated to Lincoln . 1436 49 Tho. Browne . 1445 50 Walter Harr. 1472 51 James Goldwell , principall Secretary . 1499 52 Tho. Jan. 1500 53 Richard Nix . 1536 54 Gul. Rugg , alias Reppes . 1550 55 Thomas Thirleby , translated to Ely. 1554 56 John Hopton . 1560 57 John Parkhurst . 1575 58 Edm. Freke , translated to Worcester . 1584 59 Edm. Scambler . 1594 60 Gul. Redman . 1602 61 John Jegon . 1618 62 John Overall . 1619 63 Sam. Harsnet , tr . to . Yorke . 1628 64 Fr. White , Almoner , tr . to Ely. 1632 65 Richard Corbet . 1635 66 Matthew Wrenn , Deane of the Chappell , tr . to Ely. 1638 67 Richard Montague , Bishop of Norwich , died 1641. OXFORD , and the Bishops there . THe Bisho prick of Oxford is of new erection , first founded by King Henry 8. and by him endowed our of the lands belonging to the late dissolved Monasteries of Abingdon and Osney . It was before a part of the Diocese of Lincoln : and being now made a Bisho prick , had first the Abbey Church of Osney ( being some halfe a mile from Oxford ) for its Cathedrall , Anno 1541. from whence it was removed to Oxford about five yeeres after . That which is now the Cathedrall , was anciently dedicated to Saint Frideswide : but being by King Henry made the Bishops See , was entituled Christ Church : the Chapter there consisting of a Deane and eight Prebendaries by him also founded , part of the lands which had been purchased or procured by Cardinall Wolsey for the indowment of his Colledge , being allotted thereunto . This Bisho prick was founded then , An. 1541. and from that time , unto the yeere , 1603. when Doctor Bridges was made Bishop , are 63. yeeres onely , or there abouts : of which it was kept vacant above 40 yeeres even almost all the long raigne of Queene Elizabeth ; to the impoverishing of the Church , before well endowed . The Diocese containeth onely the County of Oxford , and therein 195. Parish Churches , of which 88. are impropriated . It hath but one Arch-Deacon , which is he of Oxford ; is valued in the Kings bookes , 354. li. 16. s. 4. d. ob . the Clergies tenth comming unto 255. li. 8. s. Bishops of Oxford . A Ch.   1541 1 Robert King , last Abbat of Osney . Vacat Ann. 10. 1567 2 Hugh Curwyn . Vacat Ann. 20. 1589 3 John Underhill . Vacat Ann. 11. 1603 4 John Bridges . 1619 5 John Howson , tr . to Durham . 1628 6 Richard Corber , tr . to Norwich . 1632 7 John Bancrost , died Bishop of Oxford ; Anno 1640. PETER BURGH , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Peterburgh is of new erection , and taken also out of Lincoln , as Oxford was . The Cathedrall Church was anciendy a Monastery , the place or towne of old called Med●shamstede ; but on the building of the Abby-Church , founded by Wolpher King of the Mercians , Anno 633 and by him dedicated to Saint Peter , it gained the name of Peterburgh . This Church by him thus built , was after ruined by the Danes , and againe built and beautified by Ethelwoldus Bishop of Winton , Anno 960. or there abouts : upon whose mediation it was exceedingly liberally endowed by Edgar then King of England ; Adulph then Chancellour to that King , giving unto it also his whole estate . Thus it continued in a flourishing and faire estate , untill King Henry dissolved it : and having so dissolved it , did by his Letters Parents make it a Bishops See , and founded also here a Chapter consisting of a Deane and sixe Prebendaries . The Diocese hereto allotted , containeth the two Countics of Northhampton , ( in the which Peter burgh standeth ) and Rutland : and in them both 293. Parishes , whereof 91. are impropriate . It hath but one Arch-Deacon , which is entituled of Northhampton : is valued in the Kings bookes 414. li. 19. s. 11. d. the Clergy paying for their tenth , 520. li. 16. 〈◊〉 . 8. d. Bishops of Peterburgh . A. Ch.   1541 1 John Chamber , the last Abbat of Peter burgh . 1557 2 David Poole . 1560 3 Edm. Scamber , tr . to Norwich . 1584 4 Richard Howland . 1600 5 Thomas Dove . 1630 6 Gul. Piers , tr . to Welles . 1632 7 Augustine Lindsell , tr . to Heref. 1634 8 John Dee of Chichester . 1638 9 John Towers , Dean of Peter burgh , now Bishop here . 1639. ROCHESTER , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Rochester , is the most ancient next to Canterbury , of all in England : a Bishops See being here erected by that S. Austin , who first did preach the Gospel unto the Saxons , Anno 606. which was about ten yeeres after his entrance into England . The Cathedrall Church here , first erected by Ethelbert King of Kent , when it was first made a Bishops See ; and by him dedicated to Saint Andrew : which growing ruinous and dedicated , was afterwards repaired by Gundulphus , one of the Bishops of the same , about the yeere 1080. This Bishoprick was anciently , and a long time together , in the immediate Patronage of the Arch Bishop of Canterbury ; who did dispose thereof as to them seemed best ; and so continued , till under the pretence of free and capitular elections , the Popes had brought all Churches into their owne hands . However after this , the Bishops of Rochester owed more then ordinary obedience to their Metropolitan : and in all solemne Pompes were commonly their Crosse-bearers . The Diocese hereof is the least in England , containing onely a small part of Ke●t , and therein not above 98. Parishes , of which 36. impropriate : for ordering of which jurisdiction , there needed not but one Arch-Deacon , which is he of Rochester . Nor is the valuation much , either of the Bishoprick , or of the Clergy : the one being in the Kings bookes , 358 li. 3. s. 〈◊〉 . d. q. the other paying for their tenth , the least of any of the English , viz. 222. li. 14. 6 d. ob . q. And yet this little See hath yeelded to this Realme , one Chancellour , one Lord Keeper of the great Seale , and one Lord Treasurer , and to the Church of Rome , one Cardinall . The Bishop of this Church writes himselfe Roffensis . Bishops of Rochester . A. Ch.   606 1 Justus , tr . to Canterbury . 622 2 Romanus . 631 3 Paulinus , Arch-Bishop of Yorke . 644 4 Ithamar . 656 5 Damianus . 669 6 Putta . 676 7 Quichelmus . 681 8 Gebmundus . 693 9 Tobias . 717 10 Adulfus . 741 11 Duina . 747 12 Eardulfus .   13 Diora .   14 Weremundus . 800 15 Beornmod .   16 Tadnoth .   17 Bedenoth .   18 Godwinus .   19 Cutherwolf .   20 Swithulfus .   21 Buiricus .   22 Cheolmund .   23 Chireferth .   24 Burrhicus .   25 Alfanus . 984 26 Godwinus . II.   27 Godwinus . III. 1058 28 Siwardus . 1075 29 Arnostus . 1077 30 Gundulphus . 1108 31 Gadulphus , tr . to Cant. 1115 32 ●arnulphus . S. 1125 33 Johannes . 1137 34 Ascelinus . 1147 35 Walterus . 1183 36 Gualeranus . 1185 37 Gilbertus Glanvill . 1214 38 Benedictus . 1227 39 Henry de Samford . 1238 40 Richard de Wendover . 1251 41 Laurent . de S. Martino . 1274 42 Walt. de Merron , L. Chan. 1278 43 John de Bradfeild . 1283 44 Tho. de Inglethorp . 1291 45 Tho. de Wuldham . 1319 46 Haimo de Heath . 1352 47 John de Shepey , L. Treas . 1361 48 Gul. de Witlesey , tr . to Worcest . 1363 49 Tho. Trilley . 1372 50 Tho. Brinton . 1389 51 Gul. de Bottlesham . 1400 52 Joh. de Bottlesham . 1404 53 Richard Young. 1419 54 John Kemp , tr . to Chichester . 1422 55 John Langdon . 1434 56 Tho. Browne , tr . to Norwich . 1436 57 Gul. de Welles . 1443 58 John Lowe . 1467 59 Tho. Rotheram , tr . to Lincoln . 1471 60 John Alcock , L. K. tr . to Worcester . 1476 61 John Russell , tr . to Lincoln . 1480 62 Edm. Audley , tr . to Heresord . * 1492 63 Tho. Savage , tr . to London . 1496 64 Rich. Fitz-James , tr . to Chichester . 1504 65 John Fisher , Cardinall . 1536 66 John Hilsey . 1539 67 Nic. Heath , Almoner , tr . to Wor● . 1544 68 Henry Holbech , tr . to Lincoln . 1547 69 Nic. Ridley , tr . to London . 1550 70 Jo. Poynet , tr . to Winton . 1551 71 John Scory , tr . to Chichester . 1554 72 Maurice Griffin . 1559 73 Edm. Gheast , tr . to Sarum . 1571 74 Edm. Freake , tr . to Norwich . 1576 75 John Piers , Almoner , tr . to Sarum . 1578 76 Jo. Young. 1605 77 Gul. Barlowe , tr . to Lincoln . 1608 78 Rich. Neyle , tr . to Lichfeild . 1611 79 John Buckeridge , tr . to Ely. 1627 80 Walt. Curle , tr . to Welles . 1630 81 John Bowle , now Bishop , 1637. 1637 82 John Warner , Deane of Lichfeild . now Bishop of Rochester , 1641. SALISBURY , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Salisbury succeeded in the rights of two severall Dioceses , whereof the one had its Cathedrall or chiefe See at Sherborn , in the County of Dorset ; the other at Wilton , once the chiefe towne of Wiltshire , but since the growth of Salisbury very much decayed . Of these the ancienter was Sherborn , whose Diocese extended once over all those Countries , which are now subject to the jurisdiction of Salisbury , Bristol , Welles , and Exeter . But Welles and Exeter being made peculiar Dioceses , Anno 905. as we there have shewed , another was erected the same time at Wiston also . Which when it had continued under nine Bishops , and no more , was then againe united unto Sherborne ; and both together presently removed to Salisbury , as being the chiefe City of these parts , and consequently more fit for a Bishops See. And yet it stayed not long there neither , being removed againe in little time , unto a more convenient place . For by Hermannus it was fixed upon the hill , in that old fortified towne , now called old Salisbury : which being found by soone experience to be no proper seate for a Bishops dwelling ; the See was presently brought lower , and with it the towne . Hermannus who removed the See from Sherborne , did first begin the Church at old Sarum ( for so some Latine writers call it ) which Osmund his successor finished . Rich. sirnamed Poore , the fourth from Osmund , removed the See into the Valley , and first began that Church which wee , now see standing : whcih being finished in the yeere 1258. by Bishop Bridport , was ded cated to the honour of the blessed Virgin. Thus was the See of Sherborne removed to Salisbury , where it hath ever since continued in great fame and lustre . As for the priviledges of this Church , the Bishops anciently did claime to be Praecentors to their Metropolitan , and of more late dues to bee Chancellours of the most noble order of the Garter . Which office being instituted by King Edward 4. and by him vested in the person of Rich. Beauchamp of Sarum , and his successors in that See : was after in the new Statutes made by Henry 8. left solely to the Kings disposing , either to Clergy-man or Lay-man , as to them seemed best . Nor hath it beene enjoyed by any Clergy-man since that time , though in the yeere 1608. it was much laboured for by Bishop Cotton . This Diocese containeth in it the Counties of Berks , and Wiltes , ( for that of Dorset was dismembred from it by King Henry 8. and laied to Bristol , ) and in them two , 544. Parish Churches , of which 109. are impropriations . It hath moreover three Arch-Deacons , viz. of Salisbury , Berks , and Wilts ; is valued in the Kings bookes , 1367. li. 11. s. 8. d. the Clergy paying for their tenth , 901. li. 8. s. 1. d. Finally , this See hath yeelded to the Church one Saint , and to Rome two Cardinals , unto the Realme of England , one Lord Cheife Justice , three Lord Chancellours , two Lord Treasurers , as many Masters of the Rolls ; two Chancellours to the University of Oxford , and one to Cambridge . The Bishops of this See , we will Marshall thus . Bishops of Sherborne . A. Ch.   705 1 Adhelmus . 709 2 Fordhere . 738 3 Herewaldus .   4 Ethelwaldus .   5 Denefrith .   6 Wilbertus . 817 7 Easthanus . 868 8 Eadmundus . 872 9 Eheleage .   10 Alsy .   11 Asserius , sirnamed Menevensis . 883 12 Swithelmus , alias Sigelmus .   13 Ethelwaldus , II. after whose death this Diocese was divided into many parts , those of Welles , Cridington , and Saint Germans , ( both which now make Exe●er ) being taken out of it , Anno 905. by Plegmundus Arch-Bishop of Canterbury . At which time also there was another See erected for these parts at Wilton , whose seate was sometimes there , and sometimes also at Ramsbury , and Sunning . Bishops of Sherborn . Wilton . A. Ch.         905 14 Werstanus . 905 1 Ethelstanus . 918 15 Ethelbaldus .   2 Odo .   16 Sigelmus . II. 934 3 Osulphus . 934 17 Alfredus . 970 4 Alfstanus . 940 18 Wulfeinus . 981 5 Alfgarus . 958 19 Alfwoldus .   6 Siricus , tr . to Cant. 978 20 Ethelricus .         21 Ethelsius . 989 7 Alfricus , tr . to Cant.   22 Brithwinus .       1009 23 Elmerus . 998 8 Brithwoldus .   24 Brinwin . 1045 9 Hermannus , the last Bishop of Wilton .   25 Elfwoldus , after whose death Hermannus , who had before beene Bishop of Wilton , and resigned that Church , because the Monkes of Malmesbury would not give him leave to remove his See Episcopall unto their Abby ; was made Bishop of She●borne : and having joyned both Sees together , did shortly after remove both to Salisbury : of which himselfe , and his successors were afterwards entituled       Bishops of Salisbury .   26 Hermannus , the 26 Bishop of this Diocese , and first that had his See at Sarum .   27 S. Osmundus , L. Chan. 1107 28 Rogerus , L. Chiefe Justice , Lord Chan. and L. Treas . 1139 29 Jocelinus . Vacat sedes Ann. 4. 1189 30 Hubertus Walter , tr . to Cant. 1193 31 Herebertus Pauper . 1217 32 Richard Poore . 1229 33 Robert Bingham . 1247 34 Gul. Eboracensis . 1256 35 Egidius de Bird-port . 1263 36 Walter de la Wile . 1274 37 Robert de Wike-hampton . 1284 38 Walter Scammell . 1287 39 Henry de Braundston . 1289 40 Gul. de la Corner . 1291 41 Nicolas Longespee . * 1298 42 Simon de Gandavo . 1315 43 Roger de Mortivall . 1329 44 Robert Wivill . 1375 45 Radulph Erghum , tr . to Welles ▪ 1388 46 John Waltam , Master of the Rolls , and L. Treas . 1395 47 Richard Metford . 1407 48 Nicolas Bubwith , tr . to Welles . 1408 49 Rob. Hallam , Card. Chan. Oxford . 1417 50 John Chaundler . 1427 51 Robert Nevill . * 1438 52 Will. Aiscoth , Clerk of the Coun. 1450 53 Richard Beauchamp , first Chan. of the G. * 1482 54 Lionell Widdeville , Chancel . Oxford . * 1485 55 Tho. Langton , tr . to Winton . 1493 56 John Blythe , Master of the Rolls , Chan. of Cambridge . 1500 57 Henry Deane , tr . to Cant. 1502 58 Edmund Audley . * 1524 59 Laurence Campejus , Card. 1535 60 Nicolas Shaxton . 1539 61 John Salcot , alias Capon . 1559 63 John Juell . 1571 64 Edm. Gheast , Bishop Almoner . 1578 65 John Piers Bishop Almoner , tr . to Yorke . Vacat Ann. 3. 1591 66 John Coldwell . Vacat Ann. 2. 1598 67 Henry Cotton . 1615 68 Robert Abbot . 1618 69 Martin Fotherby . 1620 70 Robert Tonson . 1621 71 John Davenant , died Bishop of Salisbury . 1641. WESTMINSER Bishops , Deans , and Ahbats . THe Bisho prick of Westminster , as it related to the Saxons , was of late erection ; and being so erected was of small continuance : but anciently in the Britons time , the Church there was the See for the Arch-bishop of London . For whereas some had found in some Record , that the Arch-Bishops See was planted in the Church of Saint Peter in Cornbill : certaine it is , that that was a mistake for Saint Peters in Thorney . Now Thorney is the ancient name of that , which is since called Westminster : and being an ancient Saxon name , was farre more likely to be meant by the first reporter , then that of Cornebill , which is meerely moderne . But this Arch-Bishoprick being brought to nothing by the Saxons , Sebert the first christned King of Essex , erected here a Church , where the former was , and dedicated it unto Saint Peter , as was that before , which standing Westward of Saint Pauls , was by the common people commonly called Westminster . This Temple of King Seberts , being in tract of time growne ruinous , and almost deserted , Edward the Confessour againe rebuilt , and liberally endowed , and stored with Monkes , by him removed hither from Exeter . After King Henry 3. taking downe the fabrick of the Confessour , erected it as now it standeth ; save that the Abbats much enlarged it towards the West , and that King Henry 7. built that most goodly Chappell at the East end thereof . The Abbats here had Archiepiscopall jurisdiction within their liberties , and had the keeping of the Regalia , and a chiefe service in the Coronation of the Kings of England , and place in Parliament : in all which rights , save that of Parliament , the Deanes now succeed them . For when this Monastery ( which at the suppression was valued at 3977. li. ) was dissolved by King Henry 8. first he erected here a Deanrie , Anno 1539. then added to the Deane a Bishop , Anno 1541. Thirleby the Bishop , having delapidated all the Patrimony to his See allotted ; and robbed S. Peter to pay Paul , as the saying is , was removed to Norwich , and so the Bisho prick determined ; having continued nine yeeres onely : and Middlesex , which was the Diocese thereof , was restored to London . Queene Mary afterwards brought in an Abbat , and her foundation being dissolved by Queene Elizabeth , she made it a Collegiate Church , consisting of a Deane and 12. Prebendaries , as it still continues . The Bishop , Deanes , and Abbat of Westminster . A Ch.   1539 1 Gul. Benson , the last Abbat , and first Deane . 1541 2 Thomas Thirleby , the one , and onely Bishop of Westminster , tr . to Norwich . 1550.   3 Richard Coxe Deane , after Bishop of Ely. 1553 4 Hugh Weston Deane . 1556 5 John Fechnam Abbat . 1560 6 Gul. Bill Deane . 1561 7 Gabriel Goodman . 1601 8 Lancelot Andrewes , after Bishop of Chichester , &c. 1605 9 Richard Neyle , after Bishop of Rochester , &c. 1610 10 George Monteine , after Bishop of Lincoln , &c. 1617 11 Robert Tonsou , after Bishop of Sarum . 1620 12 John Williams , Lord Keeper Bishop of Lincoln , and Deane of West . minster . 1641. WINCHESTER , and the Bishops there . THe Bisho prick of Winchester ( Wintoniensis in the Latine ) is of good antiquity , and never changed the See since the first foundation , as all the rest have done in the South-West parts . The City once the Regal seat of the West - Saxon Kings . The Cathedrall Church first founded and endowed by Kingil , or Kinegilsus , the first Christian K. of West-Sax : who gave unto it all the land within seven miles of winchester . Kinelwalchin , son unto this Kingil , went forwards with his fathers fabricke , ratified his donation , and added to it amongst other things , the Manors of Alresford , Down●en , and Worthy . The Church now standing was begun by Bishop Walkelin , the worke pursued by his successors , but yet not finished till the time of William de Wickham , who built the greatest part of the West end thereof . The Chappels on the East end beyond the Quite , had their severall founders . The whole Church dedicated first unto Saint Amphibalus , then to Saint Peter , after unto Saint swithin , once . Bishop here ; and last of all unto the blessed Trinity , as it still continues . The Bishops here are Chancellours to the See of Canterbury , and Prelates of the most noble order of Saint George , called the Garter : which office was first vested in them by King Edward 3. at the first foundation of that Order , and hath continued to them ever since . They were reputed anciently to be Earles of Southampton ; and are so stiled in the new Statutes of the Garter , made by Henry 8. but that now otherwise disposed of . Finally what for priviledge , and what for large possessions it was prized so high , that Henry of Bloys , ( he was the brother of King Stephen ) once Bishop here , had got a faculty from the Pope , to make it an Arch Bishops See ; seven of the Suffragans of Canterbury , being allotted thereunto . And William de Edington , one of the Bishops of this Church , being elected unto Canterbury , refused it , saying , though Canterbury had the highest rack , yet Winchester had the deepest manger . The Diocese hereof contained of old , the Counties of Surrey , and Southampton , and the Isle of Wight : to which was added in Qu. Elizabeths time , the Islles of Iarsey , Garnsey , Sack , and Aldern●y , once members of the Bishoprick of Constance in Normandy . Of these the English Isle and Counties containe 362. Parishes , of which , 131. impropriate ▪ the Isle of Iarsey , 121. and Garnsey with the other two , as many more . For government of the English part there are two Arch-Deachns , the one of Winchester ; and the other of Surrey : Iarsey is governed by a Deane or Commissary , according to the manner of the English Church ; and Garnsey with the Isles appendant , follow the fashions of Geneva . The Bishoprick was anciently valued in the Kings books , 3885 li. 3. s. 3. d. ob . q. now at , 2793. li. 4. s. 2. d. q● . q. lesse by a thousand pounds then before it was : which plainely sheweth that there hath beene a great abatement of the old revenue ; The tenth of the Clergy amounteth unto , 846. li. 12. d. Finally , this See hath yeelded to the Church seven Saints , and to Rome , two Cardinals ; to England , one Lord Chiefe Justice , sixe Lord Chancellours , two Lord Treasurers , one Lord Privie Seale , one Chancellour of the University of Oxford , another of the Exchequer , and 21. 〈◊〉 of the Garter , whose names are to be found amongst these following . Bishops of Winton . A. Ch :     1 Wina .   2 Eleurherius . 673 3 S. Headda . 704 4 Daniel . 744 5 Humfridus . 756 6 Kinchardus .   7 Hathelmardus , tr . ●o Cant.   8 Egbardus .   9 Dudda .   10 Kinebertus .   11 Alhmundus .   12 Wighthenius .   13 Herefridus . 834 14 Edmundus .   15 Helmstanus . 837 16 S. Swithinus . L. Chan. 863 17 Adhferthus . 871 18 Dumbertus . 879 19 Denewulfus .   20 S. Athelmus , alias Bertulfus . 905 21 S. Frithstanus . 931 22 Brinstanus . 946 23 Elpheus Calvus .   24 Elssinus , alias Alfius . 958 25 Brithelmus . 963 26 S. Ethelwoldus . 984 27 S. Elphegus . 1006 28 Kenulphus . 1008 29 S. Brithwoldus . 1015 30 Elsinus . 1038 31 Alwinus . 1043 32 Stigandus , tr . to Cant. 1070 33 Walkelinus . Vacat sedes , Annos 10. 1107 34 Gul. Giffard . 1129 35 Henricus Blesensis . * Vacat sedes , Annos 3. 1174 36 Richard Toclivius . 1189 37 Godfr . de Lucy . 1204 38 Petr. de Rupibus , L. Ch. Justice . 1243 39 Gul. de Ralegh . 1249 40 Ethelmarus . Vacat sedes , Annos 4. 1265 41 John Oxon. 1268 42 Nicolas Eliensis . 1280 43 John de Pontisara . 1304 44 Henry Woodlock . 1316 45 John Sandal ; Chan. of the Exch. L. Chan. and L. Treas . 1320 46 Reginald Asserius . 1323 47 John Stratford , L. Chan. L. Treas . tr . to Cant. 1333 48 Adam de Orlton . 1345 49 Gul. de Edingdon , L. Treas . and the first Prelate of the Garter . 1365 50 Will. de Wickham , L. Chan. 1405 51 Henry Beaufort , Card. L. Ch. * 1447 52 Will. de Waniflete , L. Ch. 1486 53 Peter Courtney . * 1493 54 Tho. Langton . 1502 55 Rich. Foxe , L. Privie Seale . 1530 56 Tho. Wolsey , Card. L. Chan. 1534 57 Stephen Gardiner , displaced , 1549. 1550 58 John Poynet , who being removed , Bishop Gardiner was restored , 1553. and made L. Ch. 1556 59 John White . 1560 60 Robert Horne . 1580 61 John Watson . 1584 62 Thomas Cowper . 1595 63 Will. Wickham . 1595 64 Will. Daye . 1596 65 Tho. Bilson . 1617 66 James Montagu , Deane of the Chap. 1618 67 Lancel . Andrewes , Deane of the Chap. 1628 68 Rich. Neyle , tr . to Yorke . 1632 69 Walt. Curle , now Bishop of Winton , Prelate of the Garter , and Bishop Almoner , 1641. WORCESTER , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Worcester , ( Wigorniensis in the Latine ) was founded by Etheldred , King of the Mercians , Anno 679. and taken out of the Diocese of Lichfeild , of which first it was . The Cathedrall Church here , by him also built ; but afterwards repaired , or new built rather by severall Bishops of this See. Oswald the eighteenth Bishop here did first undertake it , and casting out the married Priests , first brought in the Monkes , Anno 964. but his foundation being ruined by the Danes , the Church was brought to that perfection wherein now it standeth , by Bishop Wulstan , about the yeere 1030. Since when it hath enjoyed a flourishing and faire estate : and ( which is very rare ) can hardly make complaint of any vacancie : save that on the exauctoration of Bishop Heath , it was assigned over in Commendam to Master Hooper then Bishop of Gloucester . But it held not long . This Diocese containeth in it the County of Worcester , and part of Warwickshire : and therein 241. Parishes , of which 71. impropriate : for these there is but one Arch-Deacon , which is called of Worcester . Valued it is in the Kings bookes , 1049. li. 17. s. 3. d ob . q. the Clergy paying for their tenth , 228. li. In point of honour it may● pleade thus much , that in the flourishing times of the See of Canterbury , the Bishops here were the peculiar Chaplaines of the Metropolitans : and by their Office to say Masse in all assemblies of the Clergy , wherein he was present . As also that it hath yeelded to the Church foure Saints ; five Chancellours to the Realme of England , and one to Norwandy ; Lord Treasurers three , one Chancellour to the Queen then being ; one L. President of Wales , and one Vice-President : whom , with the residue of the Bishops , take here in order . Bishops of Worcester . A. Ch.   679 1 Boselus , first Bishop of Worcest .   2 Ostforus . 693 3 S. Egwinus . 714 4 Wilfridus . 717 5 Milredus .   6 Weremundus . 778 7 Tilherus . 781 8 Eathoredus . 799 9 Denebertus . 822 10 Eadbertus . 844 11 Alwinus . 872 12 Werefridus . 911 13 Wilfreth . 915 14 Ethelhunus . 922 15 Wilfreth . II. 929 16 Kinewoldus .   17 S. Dunstanus , tr . to London . 950 18 S. Oswaldus . 971 19 Adulfus .   20 Wulfstanus .   21 Leofsius . 1033 22 Britteagus . 1038 23 Livingus . 1049 24 Aldredus . 1060 25 S. Wulfstanus . 1097 26 Sampson . 1115 27 Theolphus . 1125. 28 Simon , Chan. to Qu. Adefize .   29 Aluredus .   30 John Pagham .   31 Rogerus . 1181 32 Baldwinus , tr . to Cant. 1189 33 Gul. de Northale . 1191 34 Robertus .   35 Henricus . 1196 36 John de Constantiis . 1200 37 Maugerus . 1212 38 Walt. Grey , L. Ch. tr . to Yorke . 1216 39 Silvester . 1218 40 Gul. de Bloys . 1237 41 Walt. de Cantilupe . 1268 42 Nich. de Ely , L. Chan. translated to Wint. 1269 43 Godfr . Giffard , L. Chan. 1302 44 Gul. de Gainsburgh . 1308 45 Walt. Reynold , L. Chan. and L. Treas . tr . to Cant. 1313 46 Walt. Maydestone . 1317 47 Thomas Cobbam . 1327 48 Adam de Orlton , tr . to Wint. 1333 49 Simon de Montacute . * 1337 50 Tho. Hennyhall . 1342 51 Wulstan de Brandford . 1349 52 Joh. Thursby , L. Ch. tr . to Yorke . 1352 53 Reginald Brian . 1362 54 Joh Barnet , L. Treas . tr . to Welles . 1363 55 Gul. Wittelesey , tr . to Cant. 1368 56 Gul. de Lynne . 1375 57 Henry de Wakefeild , L. Treas . 1395 58 Tideman de Winchcomb . 1401 59 Rich. Clifford , tr . to London . 1407 60 Tho. Peverell . 1419 61 Phil. Morgan , Chan. of Normandy , tr . to Ely. 1426 62 Tho. Polton . 1435 63 Tho. Bourchier , tr . to Ely. * 1443 64 John Carpenter . 1476 65 John Alcock , L. Chan. tr . to Ely. 1487 66 Robert Morton . 1497 67 John Gigles . 1491 68 Silvester Gigles . 1521 69 Julius de Medices , after Pope Clement the 8. * 1522 70 Hieron . de Nugutiis , an Italian . 1535 71 Hugh Latimer . 1539 72 John Bell. 1543 73 Nicol. Heath , displaced by King Edward 6. and the See put over in Commendam to Master Hooper Bishop of Glocester , but restored after by Queene Mary , Anno 1553. and made L. pres . of Wales , tr . to Yorke . 1554 74 Richard Pates . 1599 75 Nich. Bullingham . 1576 76 John Whitgift , Vice-President of Wales , for Sir H. Sidney , transl . to Canterbury . 1584 77 Edm. Freake . 1593 78 Rich. Fletcher , tr . to London . 1596 79 Tho. Bilson , tr . to Winton . 1597 80 Gervase Babington . 1610 81 Henry Parry . 1617 82 John Thornborough , now Bishop of Worcester . 1641. THE SECOND PART OF THE CATALOGVE OF BISHOPS , CONTAINING THE SVCCESSION of the Arch-Bishops and Bishops of the Province of YORKE . Printed at London . 1641. YORKE , and the Arch-Bishops there . YORKE is the ancientest Metropolitan See at this time in England , so made at the first generall admittance of the Gospel in the time of Lucius , the first Arch-Bishop by him here established , named Sampson , and he who held out last in the Britons time , being called Tadiacus . We have a constat onely of two more , viz. Taurinus , and Pyra●●us : of all the rest no name , or memory to be found amongst our writers . On the conversion of the Saxons , this See was by Pope Gregory designed to its former honour : which not long after took effect , when as Paulinus was made Arch-Bishop of Yorke , Anno 622. In which designment of the said Pope Gregory , the Metropolitan of Yorke , was to have as many Suffragan Bishops , as he of London ( for there the See was to be placed by Pope Gregories order ) to either of them twelve a peece , which if they ever were erected in this Northerne Province , were certainly of meane estate , not able to support the honour ; and consequently , swallowed up by the greater Churches of Yorke and Durham : which two were onely left here a long time together untill Carlile first was made a Bishopricke by K. Henry the first ; as Chester afterwards by K. Henry 8. But that which was the greatest addition to the Province of Yorke , was the direct and Metropolitan jurisdiction which it claimed and had over all the Bishops of Scotland , who did from hence receive their consecration , and swore Canonicall obedience unto this See. In this regard , and that it was conceived that by Pope Gregories in stitution , he of the two Arch-Bishops which was first confirmed , should have precedencie over the other : there grew a great contention there abouts , betweene them , and much recourse was made to the Court of Rome . At last it was determined in savour of the See of Canterbury : yet so that still it might be lawfull to the Arch-Bishop of Yorke to write himselfe Primate of England ; as the other taking to himselfe the stile of Primate of all England , as it still continueth . The next misfortune which befell the See and Metropolitan of Yorke , was that the Bishops of Scotland did in fine withdraw themselves from his obedience , and had Arch-Bishops of their owne . This hapned whilest George Nevill was Arch-Bishop here , who was advanced unto this See , An. 1466. not above ninescore yeeres agoe : and then upon pretence , that in consideration of the many and most deadly warres betweene both Realmes , the Metropolitan of Yorke could beare no fatherly affection to his sonnes of Scotland . However the Archbishop still retaines his wonted place , having precedencie before all Dukes , not being of the royall bloud ; as also before all the great Officere of state , except the Lord Chancellour . For the Cathedrall Church of Yorke , it was first built , or begun rather , by King Edwyn , King of the North-Humbers , Anno 627. but finished by King Oswald who succeeded him , and dedicated to Saint Peter . But this of their foundation being destroyed by fire , and by the fury of the Danes , at the first entrance of the Normans : that which now standeth was erected in the place thereof by Arch-Bishop Thomas ( the 25. of this See ; ) and after , by degrees , adorned and beautified by his successors . The Diocese hereto belonging , containeth in it the two Counties of Yorke and Nottingham : and in them both 581 Parishes , of which 336. are impropriations . For government whereof , it hath foure Arch-Deacons , viz. of Yorke , Cleveland , East-riding , and Nottingham . This Bishoprick was at the first rated in the Kings bookes , 2035. li. 14. s. 6. d. but now , since the great diminution made by King Henry 8. 1609. li. 19. s. 2. d. And for the Clergy of the same , their tenth amounteth unto 1113. li. 17. s. 9. d. ob . q. To draw unto an end , this See hath yeelded to the Church eight Saints , to the Church of Rome three Cardinals , unto the Realme of England twelve LL. Chancellours , and two LL. Treasurers , and to the North of England two Lord Presidents . The Bishops write themselves in Latine , Eboracenses , or Eborum , and are these that follow . Arch-Bishops of Yorke . A. Ch.   622 1 S. Paulinus , died 644. Vacat Annos 20. 666 2 Cedda .   3 Wilfridus .   4 S. Bosa . 687 5 S. John of Beverley . 718 6 S. Wilfridus . II. 731 7 S. Egbertus . 767 8 Adelbertus . 781 9 Eanbaldus . 797 10 Eanbaldus . II.   11 Wolsius . 832 12 Wimundus . 854 13 Wilferus . 897 14 Ethelbaldus .   15 Lodewardus .   16 Wulfitanus . 955 17 Oskitellus . 972 18 Athelwaldus . 972 19 S. Oswaldus . 993 20 Aldulphus . 1003 21 Wulfstanus . II. 1023 22 Alfricus . 1050 23 Kinsius , 1061 24 Aldredus . 1070 25 Thomas . I. 1101 26 Girardus . 1109 27 Thomas . II. 1119 28 Thurstan . 1141 29 Henry Murdac . 1153 30 S. Gulielmus . 1154 31 Rogerus . Vacat sedes Annos 10. 1191 32 Geofr . Plantagenet , L. Chan. * Vacat sedes Annos 4. 1217 33 Walter Grey , L. Chan. 1256 34 S. Sewalius . 1258 35 Godfrey de Kinton . 1265 36 Walter Giffard , L. Chan. 1279 37 Gul. Wickwane . 1285 38 John Romanus . 1288 39 Henry de Newark . 1299 40 Tho. Corbridge . 1305 41 Gul. de Greenfeild , L. Chan. 1317 42 Gul. de Melton , L. Ch. & L. Treas . 1342 43 Gul. Zouche , L. Treas . * 1352 44 John Thursby , L. Chan. 1373 45 Alexander Nevill . 1388 46 Tho. Arundel . L. Chan. tr . to Cant. * 1396 47 Robert Waldby . 1397 48 Richard Scrope . * 1406 49 Henry Bowet . 1425 50 John Kemp , L. Chan. tr . to Cant. 1453 51 Gul. Boothe . 1466 52 George Nevill , L. Chan. * 1477 53 Lawrence Boothe . 1480 54 Thomas Rotheram , L. Chan. 1501 55 Thomas Savage . 1508 56 Christopher Bambridge , Card. 1515 57 Thomas Wolsey , Card. L. Chan. 1531 58 Edward Lee. 1544 59 Robert Holgate , Lord Pres . of the North. 1553 60 Nicolas Heath , L. Chan. 1560 61 Tho. Young , L. Pres . of the North. 1570 62 Edm. Grindall . tr . to Cant. 1576 63 Edwyn Sandys . 1588 64 John Piers. 1594 65 Matthew Hutton . 1606 66 Tobias Matthewes . 1627 67 George Monteine . 1628 68 Sam. Harsner . 1631 69 Richard Neyle , who died Octob. 31. 1640. CARLILE , and the Bishops there . THe most of that which doth now make the Diocese of Cartile , was in the infancie of the English Church , as I conceive it , part of the Diocese of whit herne , or Casa Candida , in the Province of Galloway● now reckoned as a part of Scotland , but th●● a parcell of the Kingdome of the North-Humbers , But when the Scots had mast●●d all those countries beyond Tweede and Solway , the towne of Carlile , with the County of Cumberland , in the which it standeth , were severed from that Diocese : Carlile , with 15. miles about it being bestowed upon S. Cutbert , Bishop of Lindisfarne , by Egfride , King of the North-Humbers , Anno 679 ; the residue of the Country submitting to the jurisdiction of the Arch-Deacon of Richmond , then being subordinate the See of Yorke . Thus it continued till the yeere 1133. what time a Bishops See was here first established : and by that meanes , another Suffragan Bishop added to that Metropolitan . The Cathedrall Church here had beene founded not long before , by Walter , Deputy of these parts for King William Rufus ; and by him dedicated to the honour of the blessed Virgin : but finished and endowed by King Henry the first , out of that wealth which the said Walter had amassed for that very purpose , by the perswasion of Athulphus or Athelwolfus , whom afterwards , hee made the first Bishop there . The Diocese containes the County of Westmorland , and most part of Cumberland ; and therein onely 93. Parishes , but those ( as all the Northerne are ) exceeding large ; and of them 18. are impropriate . Arch-Deacon here was never any , the jurisdiction being claimed by him of Richmond , as anciently to him belonging . The Bishoprick is valued in the Kings bookes 530 li. 4. 〈◊〉 . 11. d. ob . the Clergies tenth amounting onely unto 161. li 1. s. 7. d. ob . And yet this little See , and so farre remote , hath yeelded to this Kingdome one Chancellour , and two LL. Treasurers , besides three Chancellours unto the University of Cambridge . Bishops of Carlile . A. Ch.   1133 1 Athelwolfus , or Athelwardus .   2 Bernardus died Anno 1186. Vacat sedes Ann. 32. 1218 3 Hugo . 1223 4 Walt. Mau-Clerke , L. Treas . 1247 5 Silvester de Everdon , L. Chan. 1255 6 Tho. Vipont . * 1258 7 Rob. Chause . 1280 8 Rad. de Ircton . 1288 9 John de Halton . 1318 10 John de Rosse . 1332 11 John de Kirkby . 1353 12 Gilbert de Welton . 1363 13 Tho. de Appleby . 1396 14 Robert Reade . 1397 15 Tho. Merkes . 1400 16 Gul. Strickland : 1419 17 Roger Whelpdale : 1423 18 Will. Barrowe . 1430 19 Marm. Lumley , L. Ch and Ch. Ca. * 1450 20 Nith . Close , tr . to Lich. 1452 21 Gul. Percy , Chan. of Camb. * 1362 22 John Kingscore . 1464 23 Richard Scrope . * 1468 24 Edw. Storey Ch. of Camb. 1478 25 Rich. Dunelmensis . 1496 26 Gul. Sever , tr . to Durham . 1503 27 Roger Leibourne . 1504 28 John Penny. 1520 29 John Kite . 1537 30 Robert Aldrich . 1356 31 Owen Ogilthorpe . 1561 32 John Best . 1570 33 Rich. Barnes , tr . to Durham . 1577 34 John Mey . 1598 35 Henry Robinson . 1616 36 Robert Snowdon . 1620 37 Rich. Milborne . 1624 38 Rich. Senhouse . 1628 39 Francis White , tr . to Norwich . 1629 40 Barnabas Potter , now Bishop of Carlile . 1641. CHESTER , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Chester , as it is here to be considered , is of new erection , one of those founded by King Henry 8. whereof we spake before when we were in Bristol . Anciently it was in the Diocese of Lichfeild , one of the Bishops of which Church , removing his See hither , Anno 1075. as to the more remarkable and noted place ; occasioned that his successours many times were called Bishops of Chester . But being severed from that Diocese by King Henry 8. it was erected into an Episcopall See , made up of the revenue and jurisdiction of the two Arch-Deaconries of Richmond and Chester : of which the first had jurisdiction over Richmondshire , and part of Cumberland ; the other over Lancashire and Chest-shire . It was at first foundation ordained to be of the Province of Canterbury ; and that in the letters Patents of the foundation of the same , 33. H. 8. But the King taking into minde , as well the long distance of the same from the See of Cancerbury , as also that the Arch Bishop of Canterbury had a sufficient number of Suffragans before , whereas the Arch-Bishop of Yorke had but onely two : did in the Ianuary following , by Act of Parliament , annex the same for ever to the Province of Yorke . 33. H. 8. c. 31. The Cathedrall Church here was once a Monastery , founded by Leofricus , once an Officiary Count , in these parts ; and by him dedicated to Saint Wereberg : but repaired , beautified , endowed , and stored with Monkes by Hugh , sirnamed Lupus , the first Earle of Chester . These Monkes being ejected by King Henry 8. he brought into their place a Deane and Prebendaries : and made it of a Monastery , a See Episcopall : Whose Diocese containeth , in the Counties before remembred , 256. Parishes , of which 101. are impropriations . The Bishoprick is valued in the Kings bookes , 42● . li. 1. s. 8. d. and for a tenth unto the Crowne , the Clergy pay the yeerely summe of 435. s. 12. The Bishops of Chester . A. Ch.   1541 1 John Bird , removed hither from Bangor . 1556 2 John Cotes . 1556 3 Cuthbert Scott . 1561 4 William Downeham . 1579 5 William Chadderton , tr . to Lincoln 1595 6 Hugh Billet . 1597 7 Rich. Vaughan , tr . to London . 1604 8 George Lloyde . 1616 9 Tho. Morton , tr . to Lichfeild . 1618 10 John Bridgeman , now Bishop of Chester . 1641. DURHAM , and the Bishops there . THe Bishops See now fixed in Durham , was first placed in Lindisfarne , a little Iland on the Sea-coast of Northumberland : and there placed by the first Bishops of this Northerne region , because of the primacie and solitude thereof , which made it thought more fit and proper for devotion . But both the Bishop and his Monkes being driven from thence , by the mercilesse furie of the Danes , ( who here raged extremely ) about the yeere of Christ , 800. they wandred up and downe from place to place for 200. yeeres , not finding any place where they might repose themselves in safety , till in the end they sate them downe in Durham , Anno 990. or there abouts , where it hath ever since continued . The Church here dedicated to Saint Cuthbers , the 6. Bishop of Lindisfarne , a man of speciall renowne for piety ; whose reliques the said Bishops carried up and downe with them in all their wandtings : till at the last they were deposited in this Church , as in a place of rest and safety . The founder of it , that Aldwinus , by whom the See was first here setled . But his foundation being taken downe by William de Carileso , about the first entrance of the Normans : that which now standeth was begun by him in the place thereof ; and finished by Ranulpbus Flambard , his next successour . Somewhat hath since beene added to it by Bishop Fernham , and Thomas Welscomb Priour hereof , about the yeere 1242. Nor did Saint Cuthbert onely give name unto the Church , but also unto all that countrey , which now we call the Bishopricke of Durham , and anciently was called Saint Cuthberts Patrimony . For upon him , and his successours in that See , was all the countrey betweene Teis and Tine , conferred by Alfred King of England : which his donation was confirmed , and in part increased by his successours , Edward , Athelstan , and Cnute the Dane . So fortified it was with priviledges , and royall grants , that at the comming in of the Norman Conquerer , the Bishop was reputed for a County Palatine : and did engrave upon his Seal an armed Chivalier , holding a naked sword in one hand , and in the other the Bishops a 〈…〉 es . Nay it was once adjudged in law , that the Bishop was to have all forfeitures & Escheates within the liberties , ut Rex habet extra , as the King of England had without . But these immunities and priviledges were in part impaired by the Statute of King Henry 8. 27. H. 8. c. 25. and altogether with the lands and whole rights thereof , conferred upon the Crowne by Act of Parliament , in the last yeere of the raigue of King Edward 6. But in the second Parliam . of Qu. Maries reigne , that Act was totally repealed , and a reviver made of the said late dissolved Bishopr . and all the royalties therof , 〈◊〉 . Mar. c. 6. As for the Ecclesiasticall jurisdiction , the Diocese thereof containeth the County of Northumberland , and that which properly and distinctly is entitiled the Bishopricke of Durham : each of the which hath an Arch-Deacon of its owne ; in both , 135. Parishes , whereof 87. impropriate : the Clergy of the which pay for their tenth unto the Crowne , 385. li. 5. s. 6. d. ob . the Bishopricke being valued in the first fruit Office. 1821. li. 1. s. 5. d. qa . The Bishops of this Church doe write them selves in Latine Dunclmenses ; of which five have beene dignified with the name of Saints ; one with the Patriarchate of Hierusalem , and one with the title of a Cardinall in the Church of Rome . There have been also of them , one Lord Chiefe Justice , five LL. Chancellours , three LL. Treasurers , one principall Secretary of Estate , one Chancellour of the University of Oxford , and two Masters of the Rolls . Which wee will now lay downe in order , even the whole succession , beginning with those who had their See and habitation in the Isle of Lindisfarne . Bishops of Lindisfarne . A. Ch.   637 1 S. Ardanus . 651 2 S. Finanus . 661 3 Colmannus . 664 4 Tuda . 665 5 S. Eata . 684 6 S. Cuthbertus . 687 7 S. Eadbertus . 698 8 Egbertus . 721 9 Ethelwoldus . 738 10 Kenulfus . 781 11 Higbaldus . 802 12 Egbertus . II. 819 13 Egfridus . 845 14 Eanbertus . 854 15 Eardulfus .   16 Cuthardus . 915 17 Tilredus . 927 18 Witherdus . 944 19 Uhtredus .   20 Sexhelmus .   21 Aldredus . 968 22 Alfius , alias Elfinus . 990 23 Aldwinus , who first setled the See at Durham , from whence both hee and his successors have beene stiled Bishops of Durham . 1028 24 Eadmundus , 1048 25 Eadr●dus . 1049 26 Elgelricus .   27 Egelwinus . 1071 28 Walcher , Earle of Northumb. 1080 29 Gul. de Carilefo , L. Ch. Justice . Vacat sedes Annos 4. 1099 30 Ranulfus Flambard , L. Treas . 1128 31 Gulfredus Rufus , L. Chan. 1143 32 Gul. de S. Barbara . 1154 33 Hugh Pudsey , E. of Northomb . * 1197 34 Philip de Pictavia . 1217 35 Rich. de Marisco . 1228 36 Rich. Poore . 1241 37 Nich. de Fernham . 1250 38 Walt. de Kirkham . 1260 39 Rob. Stitchell . 1274 40 Rob. de Insula . 1283 41 Ant. Beck , Patriark of Hierusalem . 1311 42 Rich. Kellowe . 1317 43 Ludowick Beaumont . * 1333 44 Rich. de Bury , L. Ch and L. Treas . 1345 45 Tho ▪ Hatfeild , princ ▪ Secretary . 1381 46 John Fordham ; L. Tr. tr . to Ely. 1388 47 Walt ▪ Skirlawe . 1406 48 Tho. Langley , Card. L. Ch. 1438 49 Rob. Nevill . * 1457 50 Lawrence Boothe , L. Chan. 1476 51 Gul. Dudley . * 1383 52 John Sherwood . 1494 53 Rich. Foxe , tr . to Winton . 1502 54 Gul. Sevier , Chan. of Oxford ? 1507 55 Chr. Bambridge , Master of the Rolls tr . to Yorke . 1508 56 Tho. Ruthall . 1523 57 Tho. Wolsey , then Arch Bishop of Yorke . 1530 58 Cuthbert Tunstall , Master of the Rolls . 1360 59 James Pilkington . 1577 60 Rich. Barnes . Vacat sedes Annos 2. 1589 61 Matth. Hutton , tr . to Yorke . 1594 62 Tobias Matthew , tr . to Yorke . 1606 63 Gul. James . 1617 64 Rich. Neyle , tr . to Winton . 1628 65 John Howson . 1632 66 Tho. Morton , now Bishop of Durham . Anno 1641. HEXAM , and the Bishops there . THe Bishoprick of Hexam , Hagulstad , or Hextold , was founded in the infancie of the Saxon Church . The seate thereof called by the old Latines Axelodunum , by Beda Hagulstadiensis ; by us now Hexam : the first who had the name of Bishop there being S. Eata , the fifth Bishop of Lindisfarne . Ten Bishops it enjoyed successively , and then ▪ by reason of the spoyle and ravin of the Danes , it discontinued : the jurisdiction of it being added to the See of Yorke . From this time forwards , Hexamshire was held to be a see of that Arch-Bishoprick , and had reputation , of a County Palatine : but taken from that See by K. H. 8. ( of which consult the Statute , 37. H. 8. c. 16 ) and by authority of Parliament united to the County of Northumb. Now for the Bishops of this Hexam , they are these that follow . A. Ch.   655 1 S. Eata , Bishop of Lindisfarne . 685 2 S. John of Beverley , ●r . to Yorke . 709 3 S. Acca . 734 4 Frithebertus . 769 5 Alhmundus .   6 Tilherus . 789 7 Ethelbertus . 787 8 Heandredus . 809 9 Eanbertus .   10 Tidferthus , the last Bish of Hexam . MAN , and the Bishops there . TOuching the Isle of Man , we have spoke already in our first Table . The Bishoprick here of was first erected by Pope Gregory , of that name the fourth , and for its Diocese had this Isle , and all the Hebrides , or Westerne Ilands anent Scotland . The Bishop hath his seate in Russin , or Castetowne , as now we call it ; and in the Latine , is entituled Sodorensis . But when this Isle was made a member of the English Empire , the Westerne Isles withdrew themselves from the obedience of their Bishop , and had a Bishop of their own , whom they entitle also Sodorensis , but commonly , Bishop of the Isles . The Patronage of the Bishoprick , was given together with the Iland , by K. H. 4. unto the Stanleys ; who still keep it : and on the vacancie thereof they nominare their designed Bishop unto the King , who having given his Royall assent , dismisseth him to the Arch-Bishop of Yorke for his consecration . This is perhaps the reason why the Bish . of Man , is no Lord of Parliament , because not at the Kings disposing ▪ none having fuffragt in that house , but those that hold immediately of the King himselfe ; nor is it reason that they should . Whether the Bishop of this Isle ▪ was anciently a Su●●ragan to the See of Yorke , I can hardly say . I finde ordered in the Act of Parliament , 33. H. 8. c. 31. wherein the Bishoprick of Chester was made a member of that Province ; that that of Man should be reputed of it also : which may perhaps perswade one , that it was otherwise before . The Diocese hereof containeth onely 17 Parishes , of the which five are Market Townes ; the rest Villages , the people of them all , being very conformable unto the rites and ceremonies of the Church of England . Now for the Bishops of this See , I can meete with few : and therefore shall desire those who are more conversant in the businesse of this Isle , to supply this want , and make a perfect catalogue of the Bishops of Man , out of the fragments here ensuing . Bishops of Man. A. Ch. ✚ ✚ ✚   Michael , Bishop of Man. 1203 Nicolas . 1217 Reginald . 1257 Richard , Bishop of Man , dedicated the Church of S. Maries in Russin .   ✚ ✚ ✚   Henry Mann , who died , Anno 1556 , John Merick .   George Lloyd , removed to Chester , An. 1604.   Forster .   Parry , now Bishop of Man , 1641. THE THIRD TABLE , OR , A CATALOGVE OF All the Dukes , Marquesses , and Earles , which have been in England since the first entrance of the NORMANS . TOGETHER With the honourary Offices which they , or any of them have enjoyed in their severall times . Printed at London . 1641. The Preface to the ensuing Catalogue of Dukes , Marquesses , and Earles . THe Kings of England as they are the fountaine of all authority and jurisdiction in their owne Dominions : so are they the fountaine also of all civill honour ; which they dispose of and dispence , as to them seemes best . Kings have so much of God in them , whose Deputies they are on earth , as many times where they finde merit and desert , to raise the poore out of the dust , that they may set them with the Princes , even with the Princes of their people . Now for their honourary attributes , which by our Kings have beene conferred upon their Subjects ; the ancientest are those of Earle and Baron : the Kings of England , of the Norman race , not giving unto any the stile of Duke , untill that Edw. the third , created his sonne Edward the black Prince , Duke of Cornwall , Anno 1336. As for the title of Marquesse , that was made honourary by King Richard the second , who first created his great favourite , Robert de Ve●e , then Earle of Oxford , Marquesse of Dublyn : as afterwards he made his Cosen German , Iohn de Baufort , one of the sonnes of Iohn of Gaunt , by Katherine Swinfort , then Earle of Somerset , the first Marquesse Dorset . But that of Earles hath beene as ancient in this Kingdome , as the line of Normandy : William the Conquerer advancing many to that honour at his first entrance on this State , both to reward them for their service , and oblige them to him . Of which ranke were the Earles of Arundell , Chester , Cornwall , Kent , Oxford , with some others , Anno 1067. being the next yeere after he attained the Kingdome . Which with the other Earles of ancient creation , were commonly endowed de tertio denario placitorum Comitatus , with the third penny of the pleas of that County whereof they were Earles : the other two parts being accompted by the Sheriffe ( the Vice-Comes ) into the Exchequer , for the Kings use . And though we mean to go no lower in our following Catalogue , then the stile of Earle ; yet by the way we may take notice , that Viscount here became an honourary title in the time of K. H. 6. who in the 18. of his raigne advanced Sir Iohn Beaumont unto that honour , and gave him place above all Barons , as Richard 2. gave his new Marquesses precedencie before all Earles . Now at the ennobling of deserving persons into these high dignities , it is , and hath beene of later times the custome of the Kings of England , to give unto them some set pension for the support of their estate : which is now generally brought unto this proportion , that Viscounts have a fee of 20. markes , Earles of 20. li. Marquesses of 40. markes , and Dukes of 40. li. assigned unto them , out of some part or other of the Kings revenues . Which bounty I observe not to have beene used in the creation of a Baron , excepting onely that it pleased his sacred Majesty now being , when hee created the right honourable Montjoy Blount ( now Earle of Newport ) L. Montjoy of Thurle●●on , in the County of Darby , to give unto him and his heires , a fee of 20. markes per annum : which I note here , by reason of the singularity and rarenesse of it . Nor have the Kings of England beene accustomed to frame new honourary titles , for the advancement of those men which are dear unto them : but to preferre them before others of the same honourary ranke and order . Henry the sixth bearing especiall affection unto Henry Beauchamp , Earle of Warwick , first made him the prime Earle of England , or Praecomes Angliae . And when he after made him Duke of Warwick , hee ordered him to have precedencie , next after the Duke of Norfolke , and before the Duke of Buckingham . The same King Henry making his halfe-brother Edmund of Hadham , Earle of Richmond , gave him the place above all Earles , and next of all unto the Dukes . Thus did King Iames of blessed memory conferre upon the Earle of Nortingham , ( on his surrendry of the place and Office of Lord Admirall ) the seniority and precedencie of the Mowbraies , ( out of which house he was extracted ) during the life of the said Earle . And thus his sacred Majesty now being , when he created the right honourable the Viscount Wallingford , Earle of Banbur● ▪ gave him precedencie before all Earles , created since his Majesties happy comming to the Crowne . And in the Patent of creation of the right honourable the Lord M 〈…〉 joy , 3. Can there was a clause of precedencie inserted , before all the Barons of ●hat yeere , by which hee forthwith had the place both of the Lord Craven , and the Lord Falconbriage , though created before him . So absolute a power have our English Monarchs in the dispensing of their honours , and marshalling those persons whom they have advanced to these high dignities . As for the Female sex , they have no reason to complaine that they have beene neglected or omitted in the distributing of these honourary rewards and dignities : some of them having had the happinesse to taste the bounty of the Prince in the highest honours . For thus the Lady Margaret de Brotherton , daughter of Thomas of Brotherton , Earle of Norfolke , was by King Richard the second , made Dutchesse of Norfolke , Anno 1398. And thus the Lady Anne Bullen , daughter of Thomas Earle of Wilts , was by King Henry 8. made Marchionesse of Pembroke , Anno 1532. as was the Lady Margaret , daughter of George D. of Clarence , created Countesse of Salisbury by the same King Henry ; Anno 1514. Thus also the Lady Elizabeth Einch , being by King Iames created Viscountesse Maidstone , was by our gracious Soveraigne Lord now being , created Countesse of Winchelsey , Anno 1628. the dignity entailed on the heires males of her body begotten . And finally , thus was the Lady Elizabeth Richardson , wife of Sir Thomas Richardson Lord Chiefe Justice , created Baronesse Cramont , by his Majesty now reigning not to say any thing of the Lady Mary Fane Baronesse Despencer , or of the Lady Margaret Lennard , Baronesse Dacres of the South ; being restitutions rather then creations . Now for the method which I am to use in this following Catalogue , it shall be after the most naturall of the Alphabet ; as being of most ease and speediest use in finding what we have a minde to looke for . And in the same I shall lay downe the just successions of and in each severall title , ( premising first a brief description of the place denominating ) together with the yeere of Christs nativity , wherein each severall Duke , Earle , or Marquesse either succeeded in the place , or was advanced unto the same . I also shall report in briefe , on what pretext of bloud such and such men attained those honours which they have enjoyed ; If any neernesse or descent of blood was pretended by them : and where a family breakes off , and a new comes in , that I have marked with a few crosses thus . ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ I have observed also who and how many of each title have managed any of the great and honourary Offices in the Common-wealth : as those of Lord high Steward , Lord high Chamberlaine , Lord Constable , Lord Admirall ; Lord Chancellour , Lord Treasurer , Lord Chiefe Justice , or Lord Privie Seale ; together with the Lord Steward , and Lord Chamberlaine of his Majesties houshold , and the LL. Presidents of Yorke and Wates , and Chancellours of either of the Universities . Such of them as have had the honour to be admitted into the Order of the Garter , I have noted with this little Asterisme * . And all this I have done with as much brevity as was possible ; professing nothing in this place but a Nomenclator ; a bare and naked Catalogue of names and honours , for the more easie understanding of our English History , which was the matter which first moved me to compose these Tables . As for the order of precedencie of the men themselves , that are thus dignified and advanced , as now they stand ; that is to be accounted from and by the seniority of their creations in their severall series : save that a course was tooke in Parliament , 31. H. 8. c. 10. for placing those above the rest , which were entrusted with the greatest Offices of State and Court. As , viz. that of the Lord Chancellour , or Lord Keeper , Lord Treasurer , Lord President , Lord Privie Seale , Lord Constable , Lord high Chamberlaine , Lord Admirall , Lord Marshall , together with the Lord Steward , and Lord Chamberlaine of his Majesties houshold . Which manner of precedencie being it is personall , as unto the men , and hath no reference to their place and titles , varieth and changeth with the times , according as they are in trust and favour with their Lord and Soveraigne . But for the places which have given name and title to Dukes , Marquesses , or Earles ; and for the men that have beene honoured with those titles , they are these that follow : taking along such Lords , and Viscounts , as have beene dignified with and by the selfe-same titles , and no more but those . Saint Albans . S. Albans is the fairest and the goodliest town in the County of Hertford . It arose out of the ruines of old Verulamium , a towne more strong and ancient farre , ( as being the strongest Fort of all the Britaines , in the time of Caesar ) though not halfe so beautifull . It took both name , original , & Grandour , from Alban , once a Citizen of Verulamium : who suffering Martyrdome for the faith of Christ , during the persecution of Dioclesian ; had first a faire Church built in memoriall of him , in that very place : or if you will , Ecclesia mirandi operis , atque ejus martyrio condigna , in the Authors language . ( Bedae hist . lib. 1. c. 7. ) But this Church and towne of Verulam being both destroyed , in those fierce warres , which were betweene the Saxons and the Britains , Offa the great and puissant K. of the Mercians , built not farre off from the old seate , a Monastery to the honour of Saint Alban ; endowed it with a great revenue , and many goodly priviledges , as well Ecclesiasticall as Temporall . This in short time , improved the Monastery into a towne : the Abbat in regard of his great possessions , and jurisdiction correspondent , drawing no ordinary confluence of all sorts of people . Pope Adrian , borne at Abbats-Langley , about five miles off , added this honour to the place , that as Saint Alban was the first Martyr of the English nation : so should the Abbat have precedencie of all English Abbats . This house was valued at the suppression , at 2510. li. 6. s. 〈◊〉 . d. per annum ; and was surrendred into the hands of Sir. Thomas Pope , Doctor Petre , and Master Cavendish , for the use of K. H. 8. Decemb. 5. Anno 1639. The Abby Church being a stately and magnificent fabrick is left standing still : townesmen purchasing the same at the price of 400. li. and turning it into a Parish Church , as it now remaines . For the great battels fought about this towne , and in the very streets thereof , between the two contending houses of York and Lancaster ; I leave you to the common Chronicles . The persons which it hath ennobled , are these that follow . Viscounts and Earles . 1620 1 Francis Bacon , L. Verulam , and L. Chan. of England , created Visc . S. Albans , Jan. 18. 1628 2 Rich de Burgh , E. of Clan-Ricard in the Kingd . of Irel. creat . E. of S. Albans , Aug. 23 1636 3 Vlike de Burgh , E of S. Albans , and Clan-Ricard , now living . 1641. Anglesey . ANglesey is an Iland of North-Wales , situate over against Carnarvonshire , from which it is divided by a narrow straight : called in the Latines Mona , by the Britains Mon ; but being conquered by the English , obtained the name of Anglesey , as one would say , the Iland of the English-men . It is exceeding fruitfull both in corne and cattell , from whence the Welch are liberally stored with both : And therefore it is said proverbially , Mon mam Cymbri , that Anglesey is the mother of Wales . It was the ancient seate of the Druides , and brought with no small difficulty under the command of the Romans , by Iulius Agricola the people fighting here , ut pro aris & focis , for their religion and their gods . It containeth in it 74. Parishes , the principall wherof is named Beaumarish , being at this time the head towne of the shire : and Abersraw , now an obscure and homely place , but anciently the Royall seate of the Kings of North-Wales . The persons which it hath given title to are onely these . Earles of Anglesey . 1624 1 Christop . Villiers , brother of Geo. D. of Buck. created E. of Angles . Sept. 24. 1630 2 Charles Villiers , now living . 1641. ARundell is the name of an ancient towne and Castle in the County of Sussex , pleasantly seated neare the river of Arun : whence it was called Arundale , or Aruntina vallis , in some Latine Authors . The Castle of great fame and strength ; but farre more famous for the Lords and Earles therof , then the strength or beauty . A place in this farre different from the rest of England : the title of the Earle of Arundell , being annexed unto the Castle , honour , and signeurie of Arundell ; and going along with the possession of the same : as was adjudged in that great controversie , between Sir Iohn Fitz-Alan , being in possession of the Castle , against Iohn Mowbray D. of Norfolke , being the right heire in the nearest degree . The Earles hereof in regard that by ancient Charter they had had the ●ertium denarium , or the second penny of the Plees of Sussex ; and that they sometimes had their residence and abode in Chichester , as the chiefe City of that County : are in some old Charters called Earles of Sussex ; and in some others , Earles of Chichester . That which was theirs most properly , hath stayed longest by them : and is of late increased by the addition of the titles and dignities of the Batonies of Fitz-Alan , Clun , Oswaldstree , and Maltravers , with divers other lands , tenements , and hereditaments , annexed unto the title , name , and dignity of Earle of Arundell , by speciall Act of Parliam . An. 3. Car. R. the noble personages which have borne this title , are these that follow . Earles of Arundell . 1067 1 Rog. Montgomery . 1091 2 Hugh de Montgomery . 1098 3 Rob. de Montgomery , devested of this honour , An. 1102.     ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚   4 William de Albeney . 1189 5 Will. de Albeney . 1196 6 Will. de Albeney . 1199 7 Will. de Albeney . 1224 8 Hugh de Albeney , died 1243.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1289 9 Rich. Fitz-Alan , descended of the Lady Isabell ; sister of Hugh de Albeney . 1301 10 Edm. Fitz-Alan . 1326 11 Rich. Fitz-Alan . * 1375 12 Rich. Fitz-Alan , L. Tr. & L. Adm. 1397 13 Tho. Fitz-Alan , L. Tr. died 1416. * 1434 14 John Fitz-Alan , L. Maltravers . * 1439 15 Will. Fitz-Alan . * 1487 16 Tho. Fitz-Alan . 1524 17 Will. Fitz-Alan . * 1543 18 Henry Fitz-Alan , Ch. of Oxford . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1579 19 Philip Howard , son of Tho. D. of Norfolk , & the La. Mary Fitz-Alan ▪ 1604 20 Tho. Howard , now E. of Arund and Surry , and E. Marshall of Engl. Anno 1641. AUmer'e , or Alb●marle , is the name of a small town and territory in the Dukedome of Normandy . It belonged heretofore to Stephen , the sonne ▪ of Odo , descended from the Earles of Champagne : whom William the Conquerer made Earle of Albemarle , as being the sonne of his halse sister by the mothers side ; and gave unto him for the further maintenance of his estate , the territory of Holdernesse in Yorkeshire . This title hee enjoyed , and left the same to his posterity , who enjoyed it also . And when his issue sailed , the Kings of England honoured others with it ; though they had long since lost their estate in Normandy ; the Dukes and Earles whereof , take thus in order . Dukes and Earles of Aumerle . 1095 1 Stephen , sonne of Odo , Earle of Bloys . 1128 2 Will. le Gros.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1182 3 Will. de Magnaville , E. of Essex ▪ Hawys daught . of Will. le Gros.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1191 4 Will. de Fortibus . 1196 5 Will. de Fortibus . 1244 6 Will. de Fortibus . 1258 7 Tho. de Fortibus .     ✚ ✚ ✚   8 Tho. of Woodstock , D. of Gloc. *     ✚ ✚ ✚     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1378 9 Edw. Plantagenet , D. L. Adm. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1412 10 Tho. D. of Clarence , E. *     ✚ ✚ ✚   11 Rich. Beauchamp , E. of Warwick , created Earle of Aumerle , by King Henry . 6. BAnbury is a towne in Oxfordshire , the second both for wealth and beauty in all that County : Most famous in our common Chronicles , for the great battell there-by fought betweene the two great houses of Lancaster and Yorke : in which the victory fell to the Eare of Warwick , then chiefe of the Lancastrian party , who forthwith tooke King Edward prisoner ( of that name the fourth ) now forlorne and hopelesse . It was not long since much wasted by a devouring fire , but very well repaired and beautified ; and still is as it hath beene anciently , case● conficiendo notissimum , as Camden notes it , a towne much famed for the best and most delicate sort of Cheeses . It never had but one Earle , and he 1626 1 William , L. Knollys , Visc . Wallingford , created E of Barbury , Aug. 18. and died , Anno 1631. BAthe , is the fairest , and the principall City in all Somersetshire , seated in a very low Plaine , and round about environed with hils very high and sleepe : from whence come many rivulets and fresh-water springs , to the great commodity of the people . But that which brings most wealth unto the place , are not the waters from without , but those waters which are within ; sending up from them much thinne vapours , and a strong sent withall ; which springs are very medicinable unto many maladies . Three of these springs there are in all , the waters of the which being received in large and fitting receptacles for the publick use ; they call the Kings Bath , the crosse Bath , and the hot Bath . From bathing in these waters , it was called the Bath ; and thence Bathania in the Latine : unlesse perhaps you rather thinke that bathing tooke its hint from hence , and that this place tooke name from Badon , or mons Badonicus , not far off , as certainely Ca●r Badon , the old Britains called it : The Greeks and Latines gave it names according to the nature and condition of the waters , or the Baths there being : it being called by Ptolom●e , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 waters ; by 〈◊〉 Aquae solis the waters of the Sunne , on the 〈◊〉 same reason . Of the faire Church here we have spoke already in out description of the Bishoprick : which being ruined amongst other Monasteries in the time of K. H. 8. hath of ●are times beene , as it were reedified , but certainely repaired , and beautified , and made fit for use , by the great costs of Bishop Montague , a late Bishop there . Earle it had none untill the time of H. 7. since it hath had divers ; whose names and times we now present you . Earles of Bathe . 1486 1 Philibert de Chandew .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1536 2 John Bourchier , Lord Fitz-Warin , created E. of Bathe , by H. 8. July . 10. 1539 3 John Bourchier . 1561 4 William Bourchier .   5 Edward Bourchier . 1638 6 Henry Bourchier , now E. of Bathe , Anno 1641. BEdford is one of those three Counties which anciently were possessed by the Castic●●bla ni● the Countrey indifferently well provided of all necessaries , both for foode and fewell . It taketh denomination from the chiefe town thereof , called Bedford , or in the old Saxon , Bedanford ; i. e. Beds , or Innes at the Ford. A towne conveniently seated on both sides of a river which runneth through it ; well built , and populous , as having in it no lesse then five Churches . But the chiefe commendations which it hath , is for the antiquity and strength thereof ; as being a towne of no small note and consequence , Anno 572. when as Cuthwulf the Saxon vanquished the Britains in the open feild , and became Master of the Countrey . The Castle here being counted very strong , and almost impregnable , brought no small mischeife to the place , being a peece much aimed at by all those in the former times , which either pretended to the Crown , or bare armes against it . But all the fortifications being demolished in the reigne of K. H. 3. the people have since lived in quiet : and the chiefe repuration of it now consisteth in this , that it hath given the title of Dukes and Earles to these persons following , being in their severall ages Dukes and Earles of Bedford . 1365 1 Ingelram de Cowcy , E. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1414 2 John , son of Henry 4. L. Adm. Const . and Regent of Fr. D. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1470 3 George Nevill , D.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1485 4 Jasp . de Harfeild , E. of Pembroke , halfe brother to King H. 6. D. 〈◊〉     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1549 5 John L. Russell , L. Pr. and L. Adm created E of Bedford by Edw. 6. * 1554 6 Francis Russell . 1585 7 Edward Russell . 1628 8 Francis Russell , now Earle . 1641. BErkley is the name of a noble and an ancient family , dispersed in many places of this Kingdome . They tooke this name from Berkley Castle , situate neare the Severne bankes in the County of Gloucester , of which they were made Barons by King H. 2. Whereas before that time they were called Fitz-Harding ; as being descended from one Robert Fitz-Harding of the bloud Royal of the Danes . Which Robert Fitz-Harding by the name of Robertus filius Hardingi filii Regis Datae , is joyned as a Co-founder with King. H. 2. of the Cathedrall Church of Bristoll , ( but then a Monastery onely ) as doth appeare by an inscription over the gate of the said Church . William L. Berkley of this house , being descended from the Mowbiaeies , who amongst other ri●les were Earles of Nottingham , was in the yeere 1482. created Visc . Berkley by King Richard 3. afterwards Earle of Nottingham , and Earle Marshall by King H. 7. and finally , created Marqu . Berkley by the same King H. Arno 1509. But dying without issue all those titles ended with him : that of the Lord Berkley still continuing in the line collaterall . Visc . and Marqu . Berkley . 1509 1 Will. L. Berkley , created Viscount Berkley , by King R. 3. was created Marqu . Berkley by K. H. 7. mort sans issue . BErkshire was anciently in the Saxon times called Berro●schire : which name the learned Antiquary Master Camden out of Asserius Menevensis deriveth from Berroc , a certaine Forrest , where grew good store of Box , to which the people used in the time of danger to retire themselves . It lieth conveniently all along the bankes of the river of Thames , which serves them well for the conveyance of their corae , fewell , and other commodities to the City of London : and containeth in it 140. Parishes , of the which 12. are Market townes ; the chiefe , Reading , and Abington . But that which gives most lustre to it , is the royall Palace and Castle of Windsore , the principall seate and residence of the most honourable order of the Garter : and indeed the most magnificent mansion of the Kings of England . Camden in his description of this County doth conclude it thus . Thus much of Barksh . which ( as yet ) hath given the title of Earle to no man. And true it was when he so said it . But since it hath bestowed that title on these : Earles of Berks. 1620 1 Francis L. Morrys , crea . E. of Berkshire , Jan. 28. mort sans issue masse .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1625 2 Tho. Howard , Visc . Andover , created E. of Berksh . Feb. 7. now living . Anno 1641. BRIDGEWATER . BRidgewater , but more properly and in the old records Burgh-Walter , that is ; Walters Burgh , so called of Walter de Duaco , who came in with the Normans , & had faire lands given him in these parts by the Conquerour ; is a town of Somerset-shire . A great and populous town it is , descending by the Chaworths to the Dutchy of Lancaster : and vvas by Hen. 8. the heire of the Lancastrian family , adorned with the tlitle of an Earledome ; which hee bestowed on Sir Henry Dawbeney , son of that Giles Dawbeney , who came in with King Hen. 7. from Britaine in France ; and was by him made his L. Chamberlaine , and Knight of the Garter . Which Henry dying without issue , this title lying long a sleep , was afterward awakened in another family , ordeined to be a seminary for the Earles of Bridgewater . A. Ch.   1538 1 Henry L. Diwbeney created Earle of Bridgewater . 30. H. 8.   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1617 2 Iohn Egerton Visc . Brackly , created E. of Bridgewater , May 15 L. President of Wales now living , Anno 1641. BRISTOL . BRistol the third in ranke of the Cities of England , is situate on the rivers of Frome and Avon , not far off from the entrance of the Severne into the Ocean . In that regard it stands commodioussy for trade and trafick , the ships with full sayle comming up into the bosome of the City ; and verily the Cityzens there are wealthy Merchants , and trade into the most part of the world with good faith and fortune . Part of it stands in Somersetsh . and part in Glocester shire , though they account themselves of neither : being a County in it selfe incorporate , and independent upon any other than its own Officers . A town exceeding populous , and exceeding cleanly : there being sinks and sewers made under ground , for the conveyance of all filth and nastinesse , which by them passeth into the rivers . The Castle of it once was a place of strength , and in it K. Stephen was kept a prisoner by Maud the Empresse : but now not able to defend it selfe from the ruines of time . Churches it hath in it , and thereto adjoyning , to the number of 18 , or thereabouts , whereof the fairest and most memorable , next to the Cathedrall ( of which we have already spoken in our description of the Bishoprick , is S. Maries of Radcliffe , without the wals , esteemed to be the fairest Parish Church in England , yet however it hath long been a town of Fame ; it is not full an hundred yeares , since it was made a Bishops see : But lesse since it became a title of nobility , viz. not till King James conferred the honour of Earle of Bristol , on 1622 Iohn L. Digby of Sherborne , cr . E. of Bristol , Sept. 15. Jac. 20. now living 1641. BUCKINGHAM . Bvckingham is another of the three Counties , which were once the seate of the Catlieuchlani : and is supposed to take that name from Bucken , that is , Beech-trees , with which the Countrey is well stored . It is generally a very rich and plentifull soyle , equally good for corne , and grazing , and lieth al along on the banke of the Thames , confronting Bark-shire . It conteines in it , 185 Parishes , eleven of the which are market townes ; and amongst them the chiefe in name is Buckingham , the head town of the County . A town of no great note , when it was at the best ; but more considerable heretofore , than at the present ; being once fortified with a Castle , now hardly to bee found in the very ruines , as also with a rampire and certaine sconces , built for defence thereof against the Danes , now more invisible than the Castle . The greatest honour it can chalenge , is that it hath given titles of the highest honour , to many a brave and worthy personage , as well of the bloud Royall as of other families : who by the Kings of England have been hence denominated . Dukes , Marq. and Earles of Buckingham .   1 Walter Giffard , E.   2 Walter Giffard .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1164 3 Richard Strongbow Earle of Pembroke .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1377 4 Thom. of Woodstock , D. of Glouc. L Constable . * 1397 5 Humfrey Plantagener , died 1400.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1444 6 Humfrey Stafford , D. L. Constable ; descended from a daughter of Thom of Woodstock . * 1460 7 Henry Stafford D. L. Consta . * 1468 8 Edvv. Stafford D. L. Consta . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1616 9 George visc . Villiers , or Earle of Buck. 14 Jac. Jan. 5. Marq. Buck. Jac. 17. Jan. 10. and finally D. of Buck. 21. Jac. May , 1613 ▪ Lord Admirall and Ch. Camb. * 1628 10 Geo. Villiers , now Duke , 1641. BVLLINGBROKE . BVllingbroke is an antient town in Lincoln-shire , heretofore belonging to the Lacies E. of Lincolne : and by the marriage with Alice daughter and heire of Hen. Lacy E. of Lincolne , to Thomas E. of Lancaster ; this with the residue of the lands of Lincolne , became united and incorporated with those of Lancaster . The greatest fame thereof , was for a Castle built there by William of Romara , E. of Lincoln : but much more famous in succeeding times , in that it was the birth place of K. H. 4. surnamed ( according to the fashion of that age ) of Bullingbroke . ) It hath beene almost eversince his time , one of the honours ( as we call it ) of the crown of England : but never made an honorarie title unto any family , untill K. James conferred it on Sr. Oliver S. Johns who possibly might affect to bee thence denominated , as fetching his descent from the Ladie Margaret Beauchamp , grand-mother to King Henry the 7 , the heire of the Lancastrian Family . Earle of Bullingbroke . 1624 1 Oliver L. S. Iohn of Bletho , created E. of Bullingbroke , Jac. 22. Dec. 28. Now living , 1641. CAMBRIDGE . CAmbridge-shire was once part of the possessions of the old Iceni , and takes that name from Cambridge the chiefe town thereof ; and that derived either from the old town called Camboritum , which Antoninus mentions in this tract , or else , as other have conceived , from a bridge built on the river Cam , on whose banks it standeth . A town that hath beene long since dedicated unto learning : here being a publique Schoole erected An. 630 or thereabouts , by Sebert King , of the East Angles , and that ad morem Cantuariorum , as it is in Beda . But Schooles and studies being overthrown by the Danish fury , it lay long forlorne and discontinued , till it beganne to flourish under the calmer times of the Normans government , that is to say , about the middle of the reign of K. H. the first , the 3 K. of the Norman Kings . Nor was it long before , that of a famous Schoole , or Schola illustris , as we phrase it now , it did become as famous an Vniversity : Robert de Remington affirming , that in the reigne of Edward the 1 it was made an Vniversity such as Oxford is , by the Court of Rome . There are now 16 Colleges and Hals endowed , replenished with such store of students , that unlesse it be in her sister Oxford , the like are not found in all Europe . But we must leave this speculation of it as an Academy ; and look upon it next as a title of honour : in which consideration we shall find it no lesse fortunate , than we did before , in these Earles of Cambridge .   1 William do Meschines , son to Randolph E of Chester .   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1342 2 Iohn de Hainalt uncle to Qu. Philip , wife of Edw. 3.   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1349 3 William Marq of Iuliers .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1362 4 Edm. of Langley D. of York . * 1401 5 Edw. Plantagenet D. of York . * 1414 6 Rich. de Co 〈…〉 isburgh , 2 son of Ed● . of Langley .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1619 7 Iames marq. Hamilton cr . Earle of Cambridge , 17. Jac. Jun. 15. Lord Steward . 1625 8 Iames Marq. Hamilton , Master of the horse , and now E. of Cambridge , 1641 CARLILE . CArlile is the principall City in the County of Cumberland , situate in the furthest part of the Kingdome toward Scotland , on the Westerne marches : fortified with a Citadel and sundry Bulwarks for a defence against the Scots , as standing in a place of most advantage for the securing of that border . It flourished heretofore in the time of the Romans , and was by them called Lugu-vallum , as standing on the Trench , or Vallum Picticum , the Picts wall , as our stories call it ; made by the Romans to defend their Province from the Picts and Scots . So that it seemes of old to have been the boundary betweene the nations : though the Northumbers after , in the Saxon times , enlarged their Empire to the banks of Dunbritton Fryth . From whence , or when it first was called Carlile , our Authors say not ; but by that ●●me , and in the Latin by Carleo 〈…〉 , it hath long been known . The Danes consumed it into ashes , and it lay unrepaired in rubbish , til the time of William Rufus , who rebuilt it . Since which by the accession of the Episcopall See , erected there by H. the first , who succeeded Rufus ; it came to be of wealth and credit : and hath given the title of an Earldome to two severall Families , which being of a different quality , have in as different times beene Earles of Carlile . Earles of Carlile . 1321 1 Andrew de Harcla .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1622 2 Iames Hay , Visc . Doncaster , created E. of Carlile , 18. Jac. Sept. 17. 1636 3 Iames Hay now E. of Earlile , 1641. CARNARVON . CArnarvon is a shire of North-wales , butting upon the Irish seas , and parted from the Isle of Anglesey by a streit , or Fretum . A mountainous and rocky Countrey : but the defects thereof are plentifully supplyed by the Isle adjoyning . It tooke name from Carnarvon , the chiefe town thereof : heretofore very strongly walled , and fortified with a faire Castle . Edward the 2. K. of England was here borne ; and hence according to the custome of those times , entituled Edward of CARNARVON . For the occasion of it I refer you to the common Chronicles . The Princes of Wales had in this place their Chancery and Exchequet for all North-Wales : which was no small improvement to it . Earle it had never any till the present Age , in which our Soveraigne Lord now reigning conferred that title on 1628 1 Rob. L. Dormer of Wing , created E. of Carnarvon 4. Car. Aug. 2. now living , Anno 1641. CHESTER . CHester is the principall City of Cheshire , antiently part of the Cornavii . The Country not so plentifull in corne , as in fish and cattell ; but fruitfull in no one thing more than the production of ancient Gentry ; of which it can still shew more antient Families than any one County in the Kingdome . The City built in form of a quadrant , fouresquare , is enclosed with a wall that taketh up more than 2 miles in compasse , and hath 11 Parishes ; the houses being very faire , and well built , and having all along in the chief streets before the doors , a kind of gallerie ; through which a man may walk dry from one end to the other . Seated it is upon the river of Dee , on which , to shew his splendor and magnificence , K. Edgar was once rowed by 7 petie kings of the Scots and Britans , to the great joy of the beholders . The Earles hereof were anciently accounted Palatines . William the Conquerour giving this Earldome to Hugh Lupus , a noble Norman ; to be holden us freely by his sword , as the King himselfe held England by his own . And though it be now , and hath long beene incorporated into the Patrimony regall ; yet it still holds the rights and privileges of a County Palatine : and hath for the administration thereof , a Chamberlaine , a Iustice for the Common plees of the Crown , two Barons of the Exchequer , a Sheriffe , an Eschetour and other Officers ; to the great ease of all the country in expedition of their businesse . The Palatines hereof , before it came into the Crown , are these here following , Earles of CHESTER . 1067 1 Hugh sirnamed Lupus . 1103 2 Richard son of Hugh .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1120 3 Randolph de Meschines . 1129 4 Randolph de Gernoniis . 1153 5 Mugh Kivilioc , son of Randolph . 1181 6 Randol . Blondeville son of Hugh .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1233 7 Iohn le Scot , sonne to the Lady Maud eldest sister of Randolph .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1245 8 Edw. eldest son of K H. 3.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1255 9 Simon de Montford , Earle of Leicester , after whose death Chester was laid unto the Crowne ; and hath beene since united to the Principality of Wales : so that who list to see the residue of the Earles of Chester , shall find them in the former Catalogue of the Princes of Wales , which have beene of the Royall bloud of England . CHESTERFEILD . CHesterfield is a town of Darbysh , commonly called Chesterfeild in Scardale . A towne , which by the ruines of it doth seem to be of good antiquity ; and therefore likely to have had some more ancient name , which seemes to be now buried in those ruines ; or by continuance of time , quite worne out and lost . It glorieth much of being made a free Burrough , in the time of K. John ; and for the battaile fought hard by between K. Henry the 3 , and his rebellious Barons , in which Rob. de Ferrers , Earle of Darby , being taken prisoner , lost his Estate and Dignity , though not his life . But that in which it hath most cause to glory , is that from an ordinary Market Town , it is become the seate of an Earldome ; the stile and title of Earle of Chesterfeild , being conferred by our dread Soveraigne now being , upon 1628 1 Philip Lord Stanhop of Shelford , or Earle of Chesterfeild , 4 Car. Aug. 4 and is now living , Anno 1640. CLARE & CLARENCE . CLare is an ancient Town on the edge of Suffolk , where it joyneth to Essex , seated not far off from the banks of the river S●oure by which the Counties are divided . A Town that hath not any thing whereof to boast ( the Castle and the Collegiall Church being both in rubbish ) but that it gave both name and title unto that noble Family , sirnamed De Clare ; who in their times were Earles of Hartford , Clare and Gloucester . But the male issue of these Clares being failed , Lionel the 3 sonne of K. Edw. the 3. ( having married the sole daughter and heire of William de Burgh , E. of Ulster in Ireland , begotten on the body of Elizabeth , one of the sisters and coheires of Gilbert de Clare , who died Anno 1291 , the last E. of Clare and Glocester of that name ) was made Duke of Clarence ; the termination of the title , being only changed , not the place denominating . And from the change thus made ( which I note only by the way ) the second king of Armes is surnamed Clarentieux ; as apperteining formerly to the Dukes of Clarence : whom with the Earles preceding and succeeding , take in order thus ; Dukes and Earles of Clarence . 1139 1 Gilbert E. of Clare . 1152 2 Roger de Clare . 1174 3 Richard de Clare , after whose death , this title lay long drowned in that of Gloucester .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1362 4 Lionel , D. of Clarence , 2 son to K. Edw. the 3.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1411 5 Tho. D. of Clarence , 2 son to K. H. the 4. L. Admirall .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1461 6 Gro. D. of Clarence , brother to K. Edw. the 4. L. Constable .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1624 7 Iohn Hollys Lord Houghton , cr . E. of Clare , Com. Suffolk , 22. Jac. Nov. 2. 1638 8 Iohn Hollys now Earle of Clare , 1641. CLEVELAND . CLeveland , is a w●pon-take or hundred in the northriding of York-shire , taking that name as Camden tels us , of the steepe banks which we call Clyffes , which run all along the side thereof , and at the foot of which the Countrey spreadeth into a plaine ful of fertile fields . It seemeth to be a place of a faire extent , as being one of those 3 Arch-deaconries into which the whole County is divided ; and doth give the title of an Earle , to 1625 1 Thomas L. Wentworth created E. of Cleveland , 1 C●r . Feb. 7. who doth still enjoy it , An. 1641. CORNWALL . COrnwall is the most western part of England , and takes denomination from the shape and fashion of it , being like an horne ; which the old Britans called Kern , as now the Welch call the countrey Kernaw . The people of it are a remainder generally of the antient Britans ; whose language , for much of it , they do still retaine : although by intermixture of the Saxons , not easie to be understood by the Welch themselves . The Countrey very mountainous , as Wales is also ; and therefore of the lesse accesse to the Conquering Saxons : but the sea-costs well beautified with goodly townes , able to set to Sea , a good Fleet of shippes . And for the mountaines , they doe recompence their defects without , by their abundant wealth within ; as being very full of mines of tinne , which yeelds great profit to the Countrey , and furnisheth most parts of Christendome with that commodity . The Earles of Cornwall heretofore gave great immunities and liberties to those that laboured in these mines ; and when this Earldome fell again unto the Crown , Edw. the 3 erected a L. Warden of the Stannaries , to have the government thereof . And at that time of its reverting to the Crown , the L. K. Edw. gave it to his son , surnamed the black Prince ; since the which time , the eldest sons of the Kings of England , whether it be by birth , or by the death of their Elder brothers , are ipso facto Dukes of Cornwall , without any creation , and are at age to sue their livery , how young soever . Whom with their predecessors we shall marshall thus , Dukes , and Earles of Cornwall .   1 Robert of Morton , E of Cornwal . 1087 2 Wil. de Morton .   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1140 3 Reginald Fitz-Harry , base son unto K. Hen. the first .   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚   4 Iohn second son of K. H. the 2. 1227 5 Rich. Plantagenet , 2 son of K. Iohn K. of the Romans . 1272 6 Edw. Plantagenet , son of Rich.     ✚ ✚ ✚   7 Piers Gaveston .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1336 8 Iohn of Eltham , 2 son of Edw. 2. 1336 9 Edw. the black Prince . 1357 10 Rich of Burdeaux eldest son of the black Prince . * 1399 11 Hen. of Monmouth , eldest son of H. the 4. * 1422 12 H of Windsore , eld . son of H. 5. * 1453 13 Edw. of West . eld . son of H. 6. * 1470 14 Edw of West . eld . son of Edw. 4. * 1483 15 Edw. of West . eld . son of Rich. 3. * 1487 16 Arthur eld . son of K. H. 7. 1503 17 Hen. 1 son of K. H. 7. * 1537 18 Edw. eld . son of K. H 8. 1602 19 Hen eld . son of K Iames. * 1612 20 Char 2 son of K. Iames. * 1630 21 Charles eld . son of our dread Sover●i now being , An. 1641. * COVENTRY . COventry is a faire and goodly City , within the limits of Warw●ck shire , but now within the County of Warwick ; heretofore called so from the Convent , by which and the translating of the See Episcop all from Lichfeild hither , it grew exceeding rich and wealthy . And though it now hath neither Convent , nor Episcopall See ( more than in ruine and in title ) it still continues its old wealth ; being the best City of mart and trade in all these parts ; commodiously built and seated , and more than ordinarily frequented for an Inland Towne . It belonged once unto the Barles of Chester , and afterward by many meane conveyances to John of Eltham Earle of Cornwall ; and so this place became annexed unto that Earldome . Nor lost it any thing , but rather gained much by that annexation : Henry the 6. laying unto it certaine of the adjacent Villages : and making it with them a County corporate , cleerely distinct from that of Warwick . It is now one of the honourary titles of the Duke of Buckingham , George Marquesse of Buckingham , being created Duke of Buckingham , and Earle of Coventry , by letters patents bearing date in May , 21 Jac. and for the remnant of his life he , and since him , his son enjoyed both the title of Dukes of Buckingham , and Earles of Coventry . 1623 1 Georges Villiers , Marquesse of Buckingham . 1628 2 George Villiers , now Duke of Buckingham , and Earle of Coventry , 1641. CUMBERLAND . CUmberland is the furthest Country of England , on the Northwest side , antiently part of the Brigantes . It is called Cumbria in the Latine , and Cumbrorum terra , as being inhabited by the true and naturall Britans , ( who in their own language are cald K●mri ) when as the residue of these Northern parts had yeelded to the conquering Saxon. A Countrey , for the situation of it , neither unpleasant nor unprofitable ; the Valleis yeelding corne sufficiently , the Mountaines breeding great flocks of sheep , the Meeres replenished with all kind of wild foule , and the adjoyning Sea affording a variety of excellent fish . It conteineth in it not above 58 Parish Churches , but very many Chappels of Ease , as big and large as any Parish . Of these there are 9 Market Townes , whereof the chiefe ( next Carlile ) for dispatch of busines , is that of Perith , wherein they hold their Sessions and Assises . Late was it ere this County became an Earldome : viz. when as K. H. the 8. bestowed the stile and dignity of Earle of Cumberland , upon Henry Lord Clyfford , whose issue still continue Earles of Cumberland . 1525 1 Henry L. Clifford created Earle of Cumber . 17 of K. H. 8. Iun. 18. * 1542 2 Henry Clifford . 1569 3 George Clifford . * 1605 4 Francis Clifford . 1640 5 Henry Clifford , Now Earle of Cumberland , 1641. DANBY . DAnby is an ancient Castle in the hundred or Wapontake of Cleveland , in the North-riding of York-shire , seated neare to a large Parke , and a goodly chase of the same name . It belonged anciently unto the L. Latimer , and was sold with other lands belonging to that Family unto Ralph Nevill Earle of Westmerland , who forth with gave the same to his son Sir George Nevil , whom K. H. the 6. not long after summoned to the Parliament by the name of Lord Latimer . His issue male failing in Qu Elizabeths time , and the Estate being divided betweene his two daughters and coheires , this Castle with the lands adjoyning fell unto the share of his daughter Mary , who being married to Sir Iohn Danvers o● Wilish . was by him mother of S Hen. Danvers , created by K. Iames L. Danvers of Dantesey , and by our Sovereigne now being the first E of Danby . 1629 1 Henry L. Danvers of Dantesey , cr . E. of Danby , Feb. 7. 10 Car. now living , Anno 1641. DARBY . DArbyshire is a part of the Coritani , and tooke that name of Darby , the chief town thereof . A Town conveniently seated on the River of Derwent , beautified with five Parish Churches , a goodly stone Bridg , and a large Market-place : and no lesse famous for Good Ale , than Banbury for Cakes and Che●se . Finally , the Town is well traded , and of good resort ; and is the usuall place of holding Sessions and Assisses for all the County . The Countrey of the East and South parts well manured and fruitfull ; yeelding a very spacious and pleasing prospect , both out of Tutbury Castle , and that of Boulsover . The West part which they call the Peak , is not so pleasing to the eye , though possible as profitable to the purse ; being rich in iron , lead , and coales , which it yeelds abundantly ; and grazing multitudes of sheep on the Mountaine tops . It containes in it 106 Parish Churches , of the which 8 be Market towns ; the chiefe thereof being Darby , as before is said : the Catalogue of whose Earls now followeth . Earles of Darby . 1199 1 William de Ferrars . 1247 2 Wil. de Ferrars . 1254 3 Wil. de Ferrars .   4 Robert de Ferrars .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1131 5 Edm. of Lancaster , 2 sonne to King Henry the 3. after which time , this title was continued in the house of Lancastor . 1338 6 Henry of Lancaster son of Henry Earle of Lancaster , cr . Earle of Darby in his fathers life , 11. Edw. 3. * 1386 7 Henry of Bullingbroke sonne of Iohn of Gaunt , Duke of Lancaster , cr . Earle of Darby in his fathers life , 9 Ric. 2. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1485 8 Thomas Lord Stanley , cr . Earle of Darby by King Henry the 7. L. Constable . * 1503 9 Tho Stanley . 1521 10 Edward Stanley . * 1572 11 Henry Stanley . * 1593 12 Ferdm . Stanley . 1594 13 William Stanley , Earle of Darby , 1641. * DENBIGH . DEnbigh-shire is one of the shires of North-wales , heretofore appertaining to the Ordevices . The Countrey very mounteinous , and as barren generally ; though by the paines and industry of the husband-man , it be made in some parts very fruitfull . The chiefe towne Denbigh is well seated on the banks of the river Istrad , which from thence runneth into the Cluyd , the fairest river of this countrey . A town well peopled and inhabited , especially since it became the head of the county ; which was not till the 27 of Hen. the 8. what time the five new shires were added to the rest in Wales , of which this was one . But before that it was the head town of the Barony of Denbigh , being conceived to be one of the goodliest territories in all Englind , as having more Gentlemen holding thereof in see , and by service , than any other . Lords it hath had good store , and of severall Families ; but none of them a Parliamentary Peere ( in reference hereunto ) till these later times . Of late it hath given title both of Lord and Earle to two severall Families ; viz. to these Lords and Earles of Denbigh . 1564 1 Rob. Dudley , created B. of Denbigh , & E. of Leicester , Eliz. 6. Sept. 29.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1622 2 William Visc . Feilding , created Earle of Denbigh , 20. Iac. Sept. 14 Master of the Wardrobe , and novv living , 1641. DEVONSHIRE . DEvonshire is the most Western Countrey of all England , excepting Cornwall , together with the which it made up the possession of the old Danmonii . It is called Devi●an by the Cornish Britans , that is , the country of Lovv-valleies , because the people dvvel for the most part beneath in vales . From thence the Saxons had their Devenshire ; and the Latines borrow their Devonia A countrey harborous on either side with commodious Havens , enriched with inexhaustable mines of tinne , beautified with fresh and pleasant meadows , shaded again in other parts with greater store of woods , and very well replenished with Towns and Villages ; whereof it reckoneth in the whole 394 Parishes , and therein 37 Market townes of good note and trade . The countrey of it selfe not so fit for corne , but that the toyle and travaile of the ploughman supplies that defect , and addes unto it both by cost and industry what it wants by Nature . Earles it hath had of severall Families ; of which the Rivers and the Courtneys held the title long : as now the Cavendishes may doe , who have possession of it in the third generation . But how long any of them held it , and who they were that interloped , wee shall best see , by looking over the particular Names and Families of the Earles of Devonshire .   1 Ric. de Rivers or Riparis . 1106 2 Baldwin de Rivers . 1154 3 Ric. de Rivers . 11●● 4 Baldvv . de Rivers .   5 Rich. de Rivers .   6 Wil. de Rivers . 1216 7 Baldvv . de Rivers . 1245 8 Baldvv . de Rivers .     ✚ ✚ ✚   9 Wil. de Fortibus , husband of Isabel , sister of the last Baldvv .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1335 10 Hugh Courtney , next heire of Isabel de Fortibus . 1340 11 Hugh Courtney . 1378 12 Edw. Courtney . 1418 13 Hugh Courtney . 1421 14 Tho. Courtney . 1461 15 Hen. Courtney .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1469 16 Humfrey L. Stafford of Southwick , made E. of Devon. by K. Edw. the 4.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1469 17. Iohn Courtney , slaine at Tewksbury . 1487 18 Edw. Courtney . 1509 19 Wil. Courtney . 1525 20 Henry Courtney , Marquesse of Exeter . 1553 21 Edw. Courtney , died 1556.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1603 22 Charles Blount Lord Montjoy , created E. of Devon , by K. Iames.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1618 23 Wil. Lord Cavendish of Hardwick created E , of Devonshire , 16 lac . Aug. 20.   24 Wil. Cavendish .   25 Wil. Cavendish , now E. of Devonshire , 1641. DORSET . THe County of Dorset , abbutteth upon that of Devonshire , having the Sea upon the South , and Somersetshire upon the North. It was inhabited hertofore by the Durotriges , and was all the land they did inhabit . The aire good , and of an healthfull constitution ; the soyle fat and rich in many places , and where in that it is defective ; it yelds good store of woods and pasture . The Country generally very pleasant , in her situation , as being no lesse beholding to the inner-land Rivers , than the bordering Ocean ; the one yeelding merchandise from far , the other the commodity of conveyance to most parts thereof ; and both of them good store of fish . It conteines in it 248 Parishes , and in them 18 Market-Townes , the chiefe of which in name is Dorcester , as that which doth denominate the whole Country , and tooke that name it selfe from the Durotriges , whom before I spake of ; unlesse you rather think that it comes from Durnium , which Ptolomy placeth in this tract . A Towne not famous for much els , than that it hath long been , and doth still continue the honorary title of these Noble personages , which have beene severally Marquesses and Earles of Dorset .   1 Osmund de Sees , E.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1397 2 Iohn Beaufort , Marquesse , Lord Admirall .   3 Thomas Beaufort , Earle Duke of Exeter , Lord Chancellor and L. Adm. 1444 4 Edmund Beaufort Earle and Marquesse . 1454 5 Hen. Beaufort , Marq. 1462 6 Edm. Beaufort , Marq.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1474 7 Tho. Grey , Marq. 1494 8 Tho. Grey ; Marq. 1530 9 Hen. Grey , Marq. D. of Suff.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1603 10 Tho. Sickvill L. Buckhurst , created E. of Dotset . 10. Iac. March 13 L. Tres . and Chanc. of Oxf. 1608 11 Rob. Sackvill 1609 12 Rich. Sackvill . 1625 13 Edw. Sackvill , now E. and Lord Chamberlain unto the Queen 1641. DOVER . DOver , is a well knowne and famous Town , both for the Haven and the Castle , for the security and renown of which and the convenient situation of it over against France , it hath long beene accounted one of the Cinque Ports . Seated it is in the very South-East point of Kent , from whence a man may easily discerne the coast of France as being but 24 miles distant . The Town stands in the bottom between the clyffes , very warme and safe ; the Castle mounted up aloft , both to command and to defend it . A place indeed of such impregnable strength and so great importance ; that Philip King of France , when Lewys his son being called in hither by the factious Barons against their Soveraigne L. King Iohn , had gotten many Townes and Forts , but yet could not get the mastery of this peece , despised all , saying , verily my son hath not one foot of land in England , if he be not master of Dover Castle . It now gives title of an Earle to 1627 1 Henry Cary , Visc . Rochfort , created E. of Dover 3 Car. Mart. 8 , and is now living , 1641. ESSEX . ESsex was anciently perteining to the East . Saxons , and made a chiefe part of their Kingdome ; hence it took the name . Before it did belong to the Trinobantes . A Countrey large in compasse , fruitfull of corne and other sorts of graine , plentifull in saffron , wel wooded and wel watred also ; & that not only by the Sea , and the River of Thams , which washeth all one side thereof , but with faire , and fresh , and fishful Rivers , which do afford no small commodity unto it . The greatest want it hath is of sweet fresh aire ; those paris thereof which lye along upon the Thames , ( which they call the hundreds ) being very aguish and unhealthy . This County conteineth in it 415 Parish Churches , whereof 21 are Market Townes , of which Colchester is farre the richest , fairest and best traded . Yet in regard it standeth in the extremity of all the Countrey , the Sessions and Assisses are held most commonly at Chelmesford , which is almost in the middle of it . But it is time to leave the Countrey , and come unto The Earles of Essex .   1 Geofrey de Mandeville .   2 Geofrey de Mand. 1166 3 Wil. de Mand. 1199 4 Geof . Fitz-Piers , L. Ch. Iustice . 1213 5 Geof . de Mand. 1216 6 Wil. de Mand.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1228 7 Humfrey de Bohun , E of Hereford who married Maud , sister and heire of Wil. de Mand. 1234 8 Humf. de Bohun , L. Con.   9 Humf. de Bohun , L. C. 1298 10 Humf. de Bohun , L. C. 1322 11 Iohn de Bohun , L. C. 1336 12 Humf. de Bohun . * 1361 13 Humf. de Boh. L. C.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1461 14 H Visc . Bourchier , L. Ch. & L. T. * 1483 15 Hen. Visc . Bourchier , *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1539 16 Tho. L. Cromwell . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1543 17 W. L. Parre , Marq. of Northamp . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1572 18 Walt. d'Evreux , L. Ferrars , descended by the Bourchiers from the Bohuns . * 1576 19 Rob. d'Evreux , master of the horse B. Marsh . and Ch. of Cam. * 1604 20 Rob. d'Evreux , now E. of Essex , 1641. EXETER . EXeter is now the chiefe City of Devonshire as heretofore of the Danmonii , by Ptolomy called Isca , and so by Antonine , but that the Copies are mistaken , in which , instead of Isca Danmoniorum , we read Isca Dunmoriorum . A faire and goodly Town it is , seated upon the Easterne banke of the river Ex , from whence it had the name of Excester . In circuit it coutrines within the wals about a mile and a halfe , besides the suburbs which every way stretch out to a great length ; and in that circuit there are numbred 15 Parish Churches , besides the Cathedrall . The whole environed with deep ditches , and very strong wals having many towrs therein very well disposed , and yet the animosity of the inhabitants is a greater strength unto it , than the wals or ditches ; where of they have given notable proofe , in these later times . But for that I refer you to the common Chronicles ; and now present you with the Dukes , Marq. and Earles of Exeter . 1389 1 Iohn Holland , E of Huntingdon , made D. of Exeter by K. Rich. 2. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1416 2 Tho. Beaufort , E of Dorset , L Ch. and Adm. made D. of Exeter by K. H. the 5.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1444 3 Iohn Holland , D. L. Adm. * 1474 4 Hen. Holland , D. L. Adm.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1525 5 Hen. Courtney , E. of Devonsh . cr . Marq. of Exeter by K. H. the 8. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1605 6 Tho Cecill L. Burleigh , cr . E. of Exeter , 3 Iac May 4. * 1623 7 Wil Cecill , 1639. * 1640 8 David Cecill , now E. of Exeter , 1641. FLINT . FLintshire , is one of the old shires of North-wales , and though augmented somewhat by K. H. the 8. what time the March-ground was appropriated unto severall shires ( for which see 37. H. c. 26 ▪ ) Yet it is still the lest of all , as not containing above 28 Parishes , and of them only one market Town . The Countrey not so mounteinous as the rest of Wales ; exceedingly well furnished both with corne for men , and grasse for cattell ; of which it hath good store for number , though for bulke but litle . It tooke denomination from the Castle of Flint , begun by H. 2 , but finished by K. Edw 1 , for a goodfence against the Welch . This Country hath been always held to bee an appendant on that of Chester , and doth ad gladium Cestriae pertinere , as the old books say : but both united now unto the principality of Wales . Edward of Windsore eldest son of K. Edw. 2 was summoned by his father to the Parliament by the name of E. of Chester , and Flint ; since which it hath continued as a title in the Princes of Wales ; and there you shall be sure to find who were Earles of Flint . GLOCESTER . GLocester-shire , antiently was part of the possessions of the Dobuni . A fruitful and a pleasant Countrey , being honoured with a full course of the river of Severne , and the originall or fountaine of the River of Thames . That part thereof which is beyond the Severne is overspread with woods ; all which included in one name , make the Forrest of Deane . That part that butteth upon Oxsord-shire , is swelled up with hils , called the Cotswold hils ; but these even covered , as it were with sheep , which yeelds a wooll of notable finenesle , hardly inferiour to the best of England . Between those two is seated a most fruitfull Vale , fruitfull to admiration , of all kindes of graine , and heretofore of Vines and Vineyards ; the want of which is now supplied by a drink made of Apples , called Syder , which here they make in great abundance . In this so fruitfull Vale stands the City of Glocester , denominating all the Countrey ; and taking name from the old Gle●um , herein placed by Antonine ; for Gleaucester the Saxons stiled it . A fine and neate city I assure you t is , daintily seated on the Severne ; with a large Keye or wharfe on the bankes thereof , very commodious to the Merchandise and trade of the place . The streets are generally faire , and the town well built . And which addes no small lustre to it , Richard the 3 ▪ once Duke hereof , by laying unto it two of the adjacent hundreds made it a County of it selfe ; calling it the County of the City of Glocester . A City finally it is , as worthy to denominate so rich a Countrey , as is the Countrey to give title to those eminent persons , that in their severall times and ages , have been the Dukes and Earles of Glocester . 1100 1 Rob. base son of K. H. 1. E. 1147 2 William .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1189 3 Iohn sans Terre , son to K. H. the 2 who married Isabel , daughter and coheire of Wil. E. of Gloce.     ✚ ✚ ✚   4 Geof . de Mandeville E. of Essex , 2. husband of Isabel .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1216 5 Abmeric de Evreux , sen of Mabell , another coheire of E. Wil.     ✚ ✚ ✚   6 Gilbert the Clare , son of Amice another of the Coheires . 1230 7 Rich. de Clare . 1262 8 Gilb. de Clare , who married Ioane of Acres , daughter to K. Edw. 1.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1297 9 Ralph . de Monte Hermer , 2 husband of Ioane of Acres .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1314 10 Gilb. de Clare , son of Gilb. and Ioane .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1337 11 Hugh L. Audley , married Isabell sister and coheire of Gilb.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1347 12 Tho. of Woodstock , D. of Gloc. & L. Constable .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1398 13 Tho. L. Spencer , grand son of Eleanor coheire of Gilb E.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1414 14 Humf. son to K. H. 4. D *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1461 15 Rich. Plantagenet brother to K. Edw. 4 L. Adm. and Const . D. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1640 16 Henry 3 son of our dread Soveraigne L. K. Charles : declared by his Royall Father D. of Gloces . and so now entituled , An. 1641 but not yet created . HARTFORD . HArtford-shire is another of those Countries , which formerly were inhabited by the Cattreuchlani . A Country , as it is described by Camden , rich in corne fields , pastures , meadowes , woods , groves , and cleere riverets ▪ and which for● ancient Townes may compare with any of its neighbours ; there being no one shire in England , that can shew more places of antiquity , in so small a compasse . It conteines in it but 120 Parishes , and of them 18 are market Townes . The Shire-towne , which doth also give denomination unto all the Country is Hertford , s●●ted on the banke of the river Lea , by Beda called Herudford , which some interpret the Redford , and others some the Ford of herts . A Towne not much frequented , nor greatly inhabited , as overtopped by Ware , which enjoyeth the through-fare ; and by S. Albans , which enjoyeth the trade of all the Countrey . The greatest commendation of it is in the antiquity ; and that it hath been longest a title of honour , of any other in this Country : the Family of the Clares and Seymours having been long enobled with the stile of Earles of Hartford . 1139 1 Gilbert de Clare . 1152 2 Rog. de Clare . 1174 3 Rich. de Clare .   4 Gilb. de Clare . 1230 5 Rich. de Clare . 1262 6 Gilb de Clare . 1314 7 Gilb. de Clare .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1537 8 Edw. Seymour , Visc . Beauchamp , created Earle of Hartford , by King Henry the 8 , after D. of Somerset , died 1551. * 1558 9 Edw. Seymour . 1621 10 Wil. Seymour , now E. of Hertford 1641. HEREFORD . HEreford-shire , was in times past inhabited by the Silures . A Countrey , which besides that it is right pleasant , is for yeelding of corne , and feeding of cattell , in all places most fruitfull , and therewith passing well furnished with all things necessary for mans life ; insomuch that it would scorne to come hehind any one County in England , the people using it for a byword , that for three W. W. W. that is , Wheat , Wooll , and Water , it yeeldeth to no shire in all the Kingdome . The name it taketh from Hertford , the chief Town thereof , which rose out of the ruines of old Ariconium , here placed by Antonine ; the tract and foot-steps of which name , it doth still retaine . The Town is seated very pleasantly upon the banks of the River Wye , in the middle of most flourishing Meadowes , and no lesse plentifull corne fields : and for defence thereof , had once a strong and stately Castle , which now time hath ruined . The Normans became masters of the place , assoone almost as they had made their entrance into England , and unto them the Castle oweth its original ; and 2 yeares after the said Conquest , it was made an Earldom , and hath since given the title of Dukes , Earles , and Viscounts . 1068 1 Wil Fitz-Osborn . E. of Heref. 1072 2 Rog. de Breteville .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1141 3 Miles de Glocest . L. Con.   4 Rog. L. Co. 1154 5 Walter L. Co.   6 Henry L. C.   7 Makel , L. C.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1199 8 Henry de Bohun , grand-child of Marg. daughter of B. Miles , L. C. 1220 9 Humf. de Bohun , L. C. 1275 10 Hum. de Bohun , L. C. 1298 11 Hum. de Bohun , L. C. 1322 12 Iohn de Bohun , L. C. 1336 13 Hum. de Bohun , L. C. 1361 14 Hum. de Bohun . L. C. died 1372. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1397 15 Hen. of Bullingbrooke , D. of Hereford , married Mary daug . and coheire of E. Hum. after the extinction of his line , the Staffords did sometimes use the stile of Hereford . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1547 16 Walt. d'Evreux , Visc . descended by the Bourchiers from the Boh. * 1558 17 Walt. d'Evreux , Visc . E. of Essex . * 1576 18 Rob. d'Evreux , Visc . E of Essex . * 1604 19 Rob. d'Evreux , now Visc . Heref. and E. of Essex , 1641. HOLDERNESSE . HOldernesse is the name of a large Promontory or head-land , in the East-riding of York-shire , lying on the South-east of the river of Hull : Ptolomy seems to call it Ocellum , a certaine Monk Cavam Deiram , or the Hollow Country of the Denians ; expressing in those words the new name of Holdernesse . William the Conquerour gave this territory to Stephen the son of Ode of Champaigue Lord of Aumerle , in Normandy ; whose issue did continue Lords hereof , whiles any issue of that house continued . But that line being extinct in Aveline , first wife of Edmund Earle of Lancaster , the Earldome of Aubermarle , and the honour of Holdernesse were seised into the Kings hands , for default of heires . It hath lien dormant since , till these later days ; in which K James bestowed this title , on 1620 x Iohn Ramsey , Visc . Hadington in Scotland , cr . E. of Holdernesse and Bar. of Kingston upon Thames , 18 Jac. Dec. 30. Mort sans issue . HOLLAND . HOlland is one of the 3 parts of Lincolnsh . situate on the South-West corner of it , in the fennes and marishes . The ground surrounded much with waters , heretofore yeelded very small store of graine , but great plenty of grasse , and plentifully furnished both with fish and fowle . But now upon the dreyning of this fenny Country , they begin to plough it , and sowe the same so ploughed with rape-seed , which yeelds a very great increase , and is become a rich commodity . The Town of most antiquity is Crowland , heretofore famous for the Abby , valued at the supression at 1217 l. 5● . 11 d. per Annum . That of most trade and note is Boston ; a fine Town indeed , and very famous for the lanterne , which is a very excellent sea-mark , and a land-mark too . And this with all , is to be noted of this Country , that howsoever one can hardly find a stone in it ( such is the softnesse of the soyle ) yet you shall no where finde more beautyfull Churches , all built of square and polished stone . It now giveth title of an E. to 1624 1 Hen. Rich. L. K●sington , cr . E. of Holland , 22 Jac. Apr. 3 , now living and Chan. of Cam. 1641. HVNTINGDON . HUntingdon-shire was heretofore inhabited by the Iceni . A Country generally good for corne and tillage ; and towards the East , where it adjoyneth on the fennes , as rich in pasturage : elsewhere it is as pleasant , though not so profitable , by reason of the rising hils , and fine shady groves . It hath been heretofore well beset with Woods , and was indeed a Forest till the time of King Henry the second , in the beginning of whose reigne , disforested . In this regard , the Forest yeelding speciall opportunity , and delight for Hunters , the chiefe Town of it had the name of Hunter downe , we now call it Huntingodn , with very little variation . The Towne commodiously seated upon the northern bank of the River Quse , rising unto the North on the ascent of an hill : adorned with foure Parish Churches , and had a little Abbey once , founded by Maud the Emper. and Eustace Loveloft : the ruines of the which , and of a farre more ancient Castle , built by King Edward the older , Anno 917 ; are yet to be seene . This County conteineth in it five other market Townes , besides the shire-Towne , and 79 Parishes in the whole : and did become an Earldome presently on the Norman Conquest , as it hath ever since continued in these Earles of Huntingdon . 1068 1 Waltheof .   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1075 2 Simon de Senlys , married Maud the daughter of Waltheof .   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚   3 David Pr. of Scotland , 2 husband of Maud. 1138 4 Henry sonne of David King of Scors .     ✚ ✚ ✚   5 Simon de S. Lyz.     ✚ ✚ 1152 6 Malcolm King of Scots , sonne of Hen.   7 Wil. after K. of Scots . 1174 8 Simon de S. Lys , E. 1190 9 David 3 son of Henry . 1219 10 Iohn le Scot son of David .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1337 11 Wil. de Clinton .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1377 12 Guiscard d'Angolesme . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1388 13 Iohn Holland , L. high Chamb. 1400. 1416 14 Iohn Holland , D. of Exct. * 1447 15 Hen. Hol. D. of Exon.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1474 16 Tho. Grey , Marq. Dorset .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1479 17 Wil. Herb.   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1529 18 George Lord Hastings , created Earle of Huntingdon by King H. the 8. * 1544 19 Fr. Hastings . * 1560 20 Hen. Hastings . 1595 21 Geo. Hastings .   22 Henry Hastings , now Earle , 1639. KENDALL . KEndall , is the name of a Town in Westmorland , called also Candale , and Kirk by Candals , as being seated in a dale neere the river Can. The Town built in the manner of a Crosse , two long and broad streets crossing one another ; a Town of great resort & trade , especially for woollen cloaths , which they make there in great abundance , and thence vent through all parts of England . This Town hath been an ancient Barony , descending from the Talboyses , to the Breoses or Bruces ; by them unto the Rosses of Wark , some of whose line attained the title of L. Rosse of Kendal , so to distinguish them from the Lord Roos of Hamlake ; and so at last unto the Parres , to one of which it gave the title of Baron of Kendall , as it hath done before of E. to others , of more note and eminency ; which are these that follow ,   1 Iohn D. of Bedford , 3 son unto K. H. 4 , Regent of France , and E. of Kendall . *   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Iohn D. of Somerset , E. of Kend. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1446 3 Iohn de Foir , cr . E. of Kend. by K. H. 6 , since which , those of that Family do write themselves Earles of Longueville and Kendall .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1539 4 William Parre ▪ Knight , created Lord Parre of Kendall , 30 Henry the 8. March 9 ( created after Earle of Ex. by King Henry the 8. and Marquesle of Northampton ▪ by King Edward the 6 the rights and interests of which house are now devolved unto the Herberts , Earles of Pembroke , descending from the Lady Anne , sister and heire of the said Lord Parre . KENT . KEnt , in Latine Contium ; so called as being seated in the Canton or corner of the kingdome , is a very rich and pleasant Countrey , lying between the Thames and the narrow Seas . A Countrey very good for corne , and fit for pasturage , according to the severall plots and parts thereof ; and wondrous full of fruitfull and well-ordered Orchards , from whence the City of London is supplied with most sort of fruit . The Villages and Towns stand exceeding thick , being in all 398 Parishes ; besides lesser Hamlets , which make up the two Diocesses of Canterbury and Rochester . It hath also divers safe Roades , and sure Harbours for ships ; and those exceeding well defended with Forts and Castles . Caesar , when he arrived in Kent , found here 4 kings , ( for so they cal'd the Chiefes of the principall Families ) and gives this testimony of the people , that they were the most courteous , and civill of all the Britan● . In the declining of whose Empire , Vortiger gave this Countrey unto the Saxons , who being Heathens , when the rest of the Isle were Christians , gave an occasion to the Proverb of Kent and Christendome . At that time it was made a Kingdome ; as in the entrance of the Normans it was made an Earldom , and so it hath continued in the persons of these Earles of Kent . 1067 1 Odo B of Baieux , halfe brother to the Conq. L. Ch. Iust . & L. Tr.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1141 2 Wil. of Ypres .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1227 3 Hub. de Burgh , L. Ch Iust .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1321 4 Edm. of Wood stock , son to K. E. 1. 1330 5 Edm. Plantag . 1333 6 Iohn Plantag .     ✚ ✚ ✚   7 Tho Hol. married the La. Ioane , of Kent , daugh . of Edm. of Wood. * 1360 8 Tho. Holland . * 1397 9 Tho. Hol. D. of Surrey . * 1400 10 Edm. Hol. L. Adm.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1461 11 Wil. Nevill L. Falconbridge .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1464 12 Edm. Grey , L Ruthyn . L. Tr. cr . E. of Kent by K. Edw. 4.   13 Geo. Grey . 1506 14 Rich. Grey died 1523. 1571 15 Reginald Grey . 1572 16 Henry . Grey . 1613 17 Charles Grey .   18 Hen. Grey . 1639 19 Anthony Grey , Clerk , Parson of Burbage in the County of Leicester , grand-child of Anthony , 3 son of George Grey E. of Kent , novv living , anno 1641. KINGSTON . Kingston , is the name of a well known and eminent Tovvn in the East Riding of York-shire , which standing on the mouth of the river Hull , where it doth fall into the Humber , is better known amongst us by the name of Hull . A town indeed of no antiquity , being first built by Edward the 1 , who liking the situation of the place , compounded for it with the Abbot of Meaux , ( to whom it formerly belonged ) and there built the town , and caused it to be called Kingston . It rose up in a little time to great reputation ; so that for faire and sumptuous buildings , strong Slockhouses , well furnished ships , & wealth of trade , it is become the most remarkable town for merchandise in these parts of Eng. Michael de la Pole , the first E. of Suffolk of that Family , being son of Wil. de la Pole , a rich merchant here , obtained great priviledges for the place , which his successors as they grew in favour , did increase and multiply : and in the dayes of H. 6. Wil. E. Marq. and Dof Suffolk , procured it to bee made a County incorporate , as our Lawyers phrase it . Of late dayes of a County it became the Earldome , of 1628 1 Rob. Pierrepont , Visc . Newark , cr . E of Kingston upon Hull , 4. Car-July 25 , who is now living , Anno 1641. LANCASTER . LAncashire , or the County Palatine of Lancaster , was heretofore a part of the Brigants ; and lieth upon the Irish sea , to the North of Ch●shire . The ground accounted not so fertile as in other places , fitter for oates and such leane corne , than wheate or barley . And yet it is observed with all , that in those parts thereof , in which the husband-man is not wanting to it , in cost and labour , that there it yeldeth corne in a very good measure . The ayre thereof may seem to be very healthfull ; and one would easily conjecture so by the complexion of the people , which are faire and beautifull . And yet the Country is not much inhabited , as in the neighbouring shires about them : there being in so large a quantity of ground , as this shire containes , not above 36 ▪ Parishes , though indeed many Chappels of Ease , equall to Parishes elsewhere for multitudes of people . ●o takes name from the Town of Lancaster , or more truly Loncaster , seated upon the banks of the river Lonc , whence it had the name ; the Saxons adding Ceaster ( as in other places ) for the termination . The Town not very well peopled , nor much frequented ; and yet of that authority / and credit , that it gives name to all the County , and hath obteined this priviledge from K. Edw. the 3 , that the Sessions and Assises should be held in no other place . What Lords and Governours it had in the former times , we regard not here . The first time it became an Earldome , was when K H. 3 , conferred that title on his 2 son Edm. and it was destinate to greatnesse in the first foundation ; there being layed unto it at the very first , besides this County , the whole confiscated estates of the Earles of Leicester and Darby , and the Barony of Monmouth . And into this by marriages accrewed in time , the great estates of Wil. de Fortibus , E. of Aumerle and Lord of Holdernesse , Beausort , and other goodly lands in France ; the Earldome of Lincoln , and good part of that of Salisbury , the Lorships of Ogmore and Kidwelly in Wales , which were once the Chaworths . John of Ga●nt added hereunto the Castles and Honours of Hertford , and Thickbill , and his son Bulling broke a moyetie of the lands of Bohun . being E. of He●eford , Essex , and Northampton : so that it was the greatest patrimony ( as I verily thinke ) of any subject Prince in Christendome . Lancaster finally was made a County Palatine by K. Edward the 3 , and hath been honoured with these Dukes and Earles of Lancaster . 1267 1 Edm. Plantagenet , 2 son of K Hen. the 3 , E. of Lanc. 1295 2 Tho. Plantagenet . 1324 3 Hen. Planta . 1345 4 Hen. Planta . first D of L.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1361 5 Iohn of Gaunt son of K Edw. the 3 married the La. Blanch daughter of H. D. of Lanch . 1399 6 Hen. of Bullingbroke , son of Iohn of Gaunt , after K. of Eng. by whom this County Palatine , and all the lands and honors belonging and incorporate into the Dutchy of Lancaster , were brought unto the Crown of Eng. though governed as an Estate apart , then by its proper Officers , as it continued til the time of K. Edw. the 4 , who did appropriate it to the Crown , and dissolved the former government thereof , to which it was restored again by K. 〈◊〉 ▪ 7 , and so still remaineth under the guidance of the Chancellor , and other Officers of the same . LEICESTER . LEicester-shire is a part of the Coritani , and tooke that name from Leicester the chiefe town thereof ; a town indifferent large , and of a reasonable handsom building , and as wel traded as most inland towns that want ( as this ) the benefit of a navigable river . It had once a very faire Collegiate Church within it , & a faire Abbey close unto it , and a strong Castle therewithall ; but all these the iniquity and injury of time hath ruined . Only the Hospitall , of all the antient edifices ; stands still undefaced . As for the Countrey hence denominated , it beares corne good plenty , but is bare of woods ; the want of which is well supplyed with it-coale , with which the North part of the Country doth store al the rest . It cō cineth in the whole 200 Parishes , and of them 12 are market Towns ; the biggest , as in bulke being Leicester , so in title too ; as that which hath beene honored even before the Conquest , with the stile and reputation of an Earldome ; and hath continued it till now in the names and families of these Earles of Leicester . 1057 1 Algartthe Saxon.   2 Edwyn died 1071.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1103 3 Rob. de Bellomont . 1118 4 Rob. de Bellomont . 1167 5 Rob. de Beaumont L. Stew. 1190 6 Rob. de Beaum. L. high Stew.     ✚ ✚ ✚   7 Simon de Montf . married Amicia , sister and coheire to the last E. Ro. E. of Lei. and L. high Stew. 1239 8 Simon de Mont. L. high Stew.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1267 9 Edm. E. of Lanc. L. high Stew. 1295 10 Tho. E. of Lanc. L. high Stew. 1324 11 Hen. D. of Lanc. L. high Stew. 1345 12 Hen. D. of Lanc. L. high Stew. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1360 13 Wil of Bavaria , E. of Heinalt married the La. Maud of Lanc.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1361 14 Io. of Gaunt , D. of Lan. L. Stew. 1399 15 Hen. D. of Lanc. L. high Stew.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1564 16 Rob. Dudley , L. Denbigh , L. S. and of the house to Q. E. died , 1588.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1618 17 Rob Sidney , Vise . Lisle , descended of a sister of the last Rob. E. of Leicest . was by K. James cr . E. of Leic. Aug. 2.   18 Robert Sidney now Earle of Leices . Ambassadour extraordinary with the K of France , Anno 1641. LINCOLN . LIncoln-shire antiently belonged to the Coretani . A very large and spacious Countrey , extending almost 60 miles in length , and some 30 in breadth ; within which compasse are included 630 Parish Churches , and of them 30 market Towns. It is accounted very kindly ground for the yeeld of corn , and feeding of cartell , and furnished in the lower part thereof with good store of fowle , which from hence are convcied to London in great abundance . It takes name from the principall City , by Ptolomy and Antonine , called Lindum ; and after by the Saxons Lind●colline , either because it stands on so high an hill ( from the Latine Collis ) or that it had been formerly some Roman Colony . A Town of great renown and strength in the times of the Britans , and in the Normans time ( as saith William of Malmesbury ) it was one of the best peopled Cities of England ; a place of merchandise and traffick for al c●mmers , both by sea and land ; insomuch that Remigius then Bishop of Dorcester , thought fitting to translate hither his Episcopall see . From this opinion it then had , first began the Proverb , that Lincoln was , London is , &c. The Bishops of Lincoln what and how they were , we have seen already . We will now look a while on the Earles of Lincoln . 1140 1 Wil de Romara , E of Lincoln .     ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Gilb. de Gaunt . 1216 3 Gilb. de Gaunt .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1218 4 Randal de Meschines , E. of Che ▪ whose grand-father , halfe brother unto Wil. de Romara , by the mothers fide .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1232 5 Iohn Lacy descended by his mother from E. Randall . 1251 6 Henry de Lacy , whose daughter Alice was married unto Tho. E. of Lancaster , and settled all her lands upon that Family .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1354 7 Hen. D. of Lanc. * 1361 8 Iohn of Gaunt D. of Lanc. * 1399 9 Hen. of Bullingbroke D. of Lane. after K. of Eng.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1467 10 Iohn de la Pole , son and heire of Iohn D. of Suffolke .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1525 11 Henry Brandon son and heire of Charles D. of Suffolk .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1572 12 Edward Fenys , Lord Clinton , Lord Admirall , created Earle of Lincolne , by Queen Elizabeth . 1585 13 Hen. Fenys . 1616 14 Tho. Fenys . 1618 15 Theophilus Fenys . now Earle of Lincoln , 1641. LINDSEY . LIndsey is one of the 3 parts of Lincolnshire , ( the other 2 being Holland , which we spake of lately , and Kesteven , not yet become an honourary title , as the others are . It conteineth all the Northerne parts thereof , from the river Witham unto Humben , and from the Ocean to the Trent . Happy above the rest , not in bignesse only ; but that in this part stands the City of Lincoln , the chiefe denominator of the County , which being the antienly called Lindum ( as before I said ) gave to this part the name of Lindsey , for by that name of Lindsey , it is now the Earldome of 1626 1 Robert Bertu , Lord Willoughby of Eresby , and Lord great Chamberlaine of England , created E. of Lindsey , 2 Car. Novemb. 29 , now living , 1641 , MANCHESTER . MAnchester is a good Town of Lancashire , situate on the hithermost part thereof , where it joyneth to the County of Darby . A Town of very great antiquity , known to the Emperour Antonine , by the name of Mancunium ; part of which name it still retaines . And still it carrieth a good accompt , and far excels the Townslying round about it , both for the beautifull shew it carrieth , and the resort unto it of the neighboring people , and which allures them thither , the great trade of Cloathing , Manchester Cartans being famous in all drapers shops . It is remarkable also in those parts for the large Market place , for a faire Church , and for the Colledge : which last being founded first be the Lord De la Ware , was afterwards refounded or confirmed by Qu. Eliz. consisting of a Warden and certaine fellows , which notwithstanding , it is yet more famous , in being made the honorary title of 1625 1 Henry Montague , Visc . Mandevi cr . E. of Manch . 1 Car. Feb. 7 , being then L. President of the Councel , now L. Privy Seale , Anno. 1641. MARCH . MArch is a name of different nature , from the rest before , as being neither Towne nor County . Vnder that name of March or of Marches rather , our Ancestors did comprehend those batable grounds between Wales and Eng. for governance whereof , and the repressing of the insolencies of either side , there were certaine Lords and Potent men , whose lands lay nearest to these parts , which were called Lords Mar●●ers , who had great power and jurisdiction in their severall quarters . Amongst these were the Mortimers of Wigmore , men of great authority , who after were advanced above the rest , and made Earles of March. And it continued in that Family , untill it fell by marriage to the house of York ; and so by Edw the 4 , to the Crown of Eng. Nor was it long before the authority of the Lords Marchers was extinguished quite , by the uniting of Wales to En. & either making new shires of the said March ground ; ( such 〈◊〉 are Monmouth , Brecknoch , Radnor , Denhigh and Montgomery ) or laying it unto the old , for which consult the Act of Parliament 27. H. 8. cap. 26. However the title of E. of March is revived again 3 only translated from the house of Mortimer , to that of Stewart ; out of which houses have been successively , these . Earles of March. 1327 1 Rog. L. Mortimer of Wigmore . * 1354 2 Roger Morti. 1359 3 Edm. Morti. 1381 4 Rog. Morti. 1399 5 Edm. Morti.     ✚ ✚ ✚   6 Edw. Plantagenet , son of Rich. D. of York , and after K. of Eng. of that name the 4.   7 Edw. eldest son of K. Edvv. 4. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1619 8 Esme Steward L. Aubigny ; created E. of March 17 Jac. Jun. 7. after D. of Lennox . * 1624 9 Iames D. of Lennox and Earle of March , Anno 1641. * MARLEBVRGH . MArleburgh is a Town in the North east part of Wilt-shire , seated not , far off from the head of the river Kenet : which runneth thence to Hungerford , and Newbury , and so by Reading into the Thames . The Towne called antiently Cunetio in Antonine's Itinerarium , as the river was : but by the Normans , in whose time this Town revived ( out of the ruines of the old ) it was called Marleburgh , as being seated in a chaulky foyle , which in some places still we call by the name of Marle . A Town stretched out from East to West , upon the pendant of an hill , and had a Castle once belonging unto John , sirnamed Sans tarre , who afterwards was K. of England , which is still , famous in our Law books , for a Parliament there held , 52. H. 3 , in which were made the statutes ( from hence called ) of Marleburgh , right necessary for the peace and tranquility of the people , as is affirmed in the preamble unto the same . Our Soveraigne at his Coronation made it yet more notable , in making it the honour , as it was the neighbour of 1625 1 Iames L. Ley , L. Tr. cr . E. of Marleburgh , 1 Car. Feb 7. 1628 2 Henry Ley.   3 Iames Ley , now E. of Marleburgh , Anno 1641. MARSHALL . THe title of E. Marshall is different from the rest of England , all of the which ( the title of Earle Rivers excepted only ) are locall , or denominated from some place ; this only personall : the residue being only honorary , this honorary and officiary , both together . Antiently they that had this office were only Marshals of the Kings house , according as the same is now discharged by the Knights Marshall . But in succeeding times it grew to be a place of great power , and honour ; as it still continueth . At first they had the title of L. Marshall only . Rich. the 2 was the first , who by letters Parents advanced them to the dignity of Earles Marshals , and with all gave them power to beare a staffe of gold , enammeled black at both ends , with the Kings Armes on the upper end , and their own Armes on the lower ; whereas before that time , the Marshals ; had no other than a wooden staffe , as other the Great Officers have at Court. Before this time , they were L. Marshals only , as before I said . For howsoever the title of E. Marshall and Comes Marescallus , doth many times occurre in our antient histories . Yet I conceive that it was only giventhem then by the courtesie or curiality of England , because the Office in those dayes was vested in the person of none but Earles ; as by the like mistake or courtefie , we find the title of Comes Seneschallus , and Comes Constabularius ▪ 〈◊〉 some old Records . The manour of Hamsted Marshall in the County of Berkshire , was held of old by Grand Sergianty of the Kings of England ; conditioned that the Grantees should for ever be the K. Marshals , according as the Offices of Steward , Constable , and Lord High Chamberlaine , in those times were granted . What the authority and jurisdiction is of this great Officer , we regard not here , it being our undertaking only to lay down the names of those ( as many at lest as I have met with in my reading ) which in their severall times have borne the title of Lords and Earles Marshall . 1135 1 Gilbert de Clare , L. Marshal , created E of Pembrok by K. Stephen . Anno 1139. 1149 2 Richard de Clare , si●●●med Strongbovv , E. of Pemb. and L. Marsh . died Anno 1176. 1176 3 Iohn , sirnamed Marshall , from this Office , which was conferred on him by K. H. 2. upon the death of Rich. E. of Pemb.   4 William Marshall , L. Marshall , the grand-child of the former Iohn , who having married Isabel daug . and heire of Ric. Strongbow , was cr . E. of Pemb. by K. Jo. An. 1201 1219 5 William Marshall , the younger , E. of Pemb. 1231 6 Rich. Marsh . E. of Pemb. 1234 7 Gilb Marsh . E. of Pemb. 1242 8 Wal Marsh . E. of Pemb. 1245 9 Anselm . Marsh . E. of Pemb. 1245 10 Roger Bigot , E. of Norfolk , L. Marshall , in right of Maud his mother , one of the sisters and heires of the 5 last Marshals . 1269 11 Roger Bigot Earle of Norfolke , whose estate being confiscated to the Crown , came after his decease to the K. hands . 1307 12 Robert de Clyfford , made Lord Marshall by K. Edw. 2 , durante beneplaci●o .   13 Nicolas de Seagrave . 0315 14 Thomas de Brotherton Earle of Norfolk , was in the 9. of Edw. 2. made L. Marsh . 1388 15 Margaret , daughter and heire of Thom. de Brotherton , is often honored with the title of La. Marsh . and was afterwards cr . Dutch. of Norf.   16 Wil. de Montacute .   17 Tho. Beauchamp .   18 Edmund Mortimer , did severally and successively discharge the Office of L. Marsh . but whether as Deputies for the La. Marga. nondum planè constat . 1377 19 Henry Lord Percy , L. Marsh . at the coronation of K. Rich. 2. Earles Marshall . 1383 20 Tho. L. Mowbray , E. of Notingh . nephew unto the Lady Marg. by her daughter Eliz. was made the first E. Marsh . by K. Rich. 2 , and was after D. of Norfolk . 1398 21 Tho Holland , E. of Kent and D. of Surrey , was made E. Marsh , upon the banishment of the D. of Norfolk . 1399 22 Tho. L. M● wb . E. of Noting . did on his fathers death ( at Venice ) assume the title of E. Marsh . but the office was exercised by   23 Ralp . Nevill E. of Westmerland , made L. M of En. by K. H. 4. for terme of life , in the beginning of his reigne . 1412 24 Iohn L. Mowb. brother of Tho. E. M. was by K. H. 5. restored unto the title of E. of Notingham , and E. M. and by K. H. 6. to that of Norfolk . 1432 25 Iohn L. Mowb. D. of Norf. E. Mar.   26 Iohn L. Mo. D. of Nor. & E. M.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1476 27 Ric. D. of York , 2 son of K. Edw. 4 , was by his Father cr . D. of N. and E. Marsh . and after married Anne daughter and heire of the last Mow. D of Norfolk . 1483 28 Iohn L. How. descended from the L. Tho. Mow first D. of Norf. cr . D. of Norf. and E. Marsh . by K. Rich 3. 1486 29 Wil. L Berkley , E of Notingham descended from another daughter of the said first D. of Norfolk c● E. Marsh by K. H. 7. and Marq. Barkeley . 1497 30 Hen. D. of York , the 2 son of K. Hen 7. cr E. M. by his Father , & was after K. of Eng. 1509 31 Tho. How. Earle of Surrey , son of Ioh. L. How. D. of Norfolk , was by K H. 8. cr . first E. M and afterwards restored to the Duk. of Norfolk . 1546 32 Tho. How. D. of Norfolk , and E. Marsh . attainted An. 1546. 1547 33 Edw. Seymour , D. of Somerset , and L. Protector of K Edw. the 6 , was in the said Kings time cr . E. Marshall . 1553 34 Tho. D. of Norfolk and E. Marsh . restored unto his bloud and honours , by Q. Mary . 1554 35 Thomas Howard D. of Nor. and E. Marsh . beheaded , 1571. 1572 36 Geo Talbot , E of Shrewsbury & E. M. died anno 1590. 1597 37 Rob. d'Evrcux E. of Essex , and E. Mar. died anno 1601.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1603 37 Edw. Somerset , E. of Worcester executed the office of Earl Marshall at the Coronation of K James , after which time the Office was a long time executed by Commission . 1621 38 Thomas Howard , Earle of Arundell and Surrey , ( grand son of Thomas , Duke of Norfolk , by his son Philip Earle of Arundell ) was by King James created Earle Marshall , as hee still continueth , Anno 1641. MIDDLESEX . MIddlesex is a part of the Trinobantes , lying upon the banks of the river Thames . A County not so large as others , but far more remarkable , for sumptuous houses , wel-built villages , a fertile soyle , and temperate aire ; and which addeth most unto it , for the great Cities of London and Westminster , which are seated in it , and for the constant residence of the Court , the Receptacle and aboade of the Kings of Eng. who have made this County happy above others with their Royall mansions . Whitehall , and Hampton Court , Somerset house and S. James , still in the possession of the Crown ; Enfeild , and Hanworth , aliened now , have either been the chiefe aboades , or retiring places of our Kings and Princes . In which regard , the Kings of E●g . antiently ( as Camdex notes it ) vouchsafed the title of Middlesex unto none , neither D. Marq. E. nor B. although , I know not by what popular error , the Citizens of London reckoned the L. Major elect , for E. of Middlesex . Which whatsoever ground it had , hath none now to stand on , that title being not long since bestowed on 1622 1 Lionel L. Cranfeild . L. Tr. of Eng. cr . E. of Middlesex , 20. Jac. Sep. 17. & now alive , Anno 1641. MONMOVTH . Monmouth-shire is the neerest shire of Wales , though it desires rather to be accounted a part of England , and is indeed included in the circuit of the English Iudges . It lieth upon the North of the river Sevorn , there where it groweth into a Sea , the East parts full of grasse and woods , the West somewhat hilly , and stony withall ; yet not unprofitable to the husbandman , if he be not wanting to himselfe . It takes name from the chiefe Town Monmouth , and that from being seated on the mouth of the River M 〈…〉 , there where it shoores into the Wye . It was the Barony once of Iohn L. of Monmouth , on whose attaindure it was setled in the house of Lancasier ; from whom it after did receive great priviledges and immunities , which they still enjoy . Henry the f●r , son unto King Henry the fourth ( the first of the Lancastrian Family ) was in this place borne , ( which stiewes that noble Family so highly prized it , to make it their dwelling ) and was from hence called Henry of Monmouth . That one particular enough , to renown the place , and therefore we shall adde no more . It is belonging still to the home of Lancaster , as to the possession , being dependent on the Dutchy ; and not much aliened from it as unto the title : the Caries , which derive themselves from Lancaster , by the line of Somerset , being now honoured with the title of Earles of Monmouth . 1625 1 Robert Lord Cary of Leppington , created E. of Monmouth , a Car. Feb. 7. 1639 2 Robert Cary now Earle of Monmouth , now living , Anno 1641 , MONTACVTE . MOntacute is the name of a very antient & illustrious Family , so called from Montacute , a sharp hill in the South parts of Somerset-shire , between Evill and Martok . The place called Biscopeston by the Saxons , but by the E. of Moriton brother by the mothers side to William the Conquerour ( who built a Castle on the top of it ) it was called Montacute ▪ It afterwards gave name to that noble Family ( as before I said ) who being Lords hereof came after to be Earles of Salisbury , and since in other Families ( but descending from them ) hath been the honorary stile and appellation of these Marq. Lords & Visc . Montacute . 1461 1 Iohn Nevill , grandchild of Thom , Montacute , E. of Salis cr . L. Mon. 1 Edw. 44. and after Marq. Monta. Anno 1470. *   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1504 2 Hen. Pole , great granchild . of Rich , Nevill , the elder brother of the said Iohn L. Mont.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1553 3 Antho. Brown descen . from the La. Lucy , daugh . of Ioh. Mar. Mont. cr . Visc . Mont. 1 Mar. Sept. 2. 1592 4 Anth. Brown Visc . Monta.   5 Anth. Brow. now living , An. 1641. MONTGOMERY . MOntgomery-shire is one of the new shires of Wales , taken out of the March-grounds by K. H. S. Anno 27 ; of his reigne , so called from the Town and Castle of Montgomery , & that from Roger. de Montgomery a noble Norman , Earle of Shrewsbury , who winning much land herabouts from the Welch , first built it to secure his Conqu . It standeth not far from the banks of the river Severne , upon the rising of a rock ; from whence it hath overyfree prospect into a pleasant plaine that lyeth beneath it . The Family of the Herberts is very much diffused , and of great authority in this Country , out of which Family 1605 Philip Herbert 2 son of Hen. Earle of Pembrok , was cr . E. of Montgomery 3 Jac. May. 4 , and is now also E. of Pembrok and L. Cham. An. 1641. MOVLGRAVE . MOulgrave is an antient Castle in the north riding of York-shire , situate neare unto the sea , and not far from Whitbay . First built it was by Peter de Manley , ( or de malo lacu , in the Latine ) in the time of Rich. 1 , and being in his eye , a very beautifull pile , was by him called Moult-Grace , but being a greivous yoke to the neighbour inhabitants , was by them called Moult-grave , by which name , and no other , now the world takes notice of it . It continued in his line for seven generations , and all of them called Peters too : and then the issue male failing , it passed through severall Families by the heires generall , and now belongeth to the Sheffeilds ; out of which house : 1625 1 Edm. L. Sheffeild L. President of the North , was cr . E. of Moulgrave , 1 Car. Feb. 7 , and is still alive , Anno 1641. NEWCASTLE . NEw-Castle is the hithermost town of all Northumberland , and the chiefe of the North , seated upon the further banke of the river Tine , which is there so deep , and well fenced withall , that it giveth a very safe station to the tallest ships . It standeth on the declining of a very steep hill , adorned with 4 Churches , fortified with strong wals , & beautified with goodly buildings . A town of very great resort , ) especially by reason of the trade of Sea cole , which is conveyed hence to all parts of the Kingdome , and many other parts of Christendome . It rose out of the ruines of old Gabrosenlum : and had this new name from a Castle built by Robert son of Wil. the Conq. And thriving by the benefit and entercourse of trade , became at length of such reputation , that by K. H. 6. it was made a County incorporate , as we use to say ; and finally thought worthy to give the honour of an E to 1623 1 Ludowick D. of Lennox and E. of Richmond , cr . E. of Newcastle , 2 Joc. in May.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1627 2 Wil. Cavendish , Visc . Mansfield , cr . E. of Newcastle , 3 Car Mar. 7. Now Gover. and Gent. of the Bedchamber of the Prince his high . A. 1641. NEWPORT . NEwport is the chiefe Town of the Isle of Wight , called in times past Medena , afterwards No●us burgus de Meden , and by us now , Newport . A Town well seated and much frequented , and withall populous in it selfe ; which most ariseth from the benefit of a little haven capable of vessels of the smaller burden , which come up to the very key . For government within , it hath a Major and Burgesses , being made a Corporation by K. James , and for a further lustre to it , in the world abroad , it pleased our Soveraigne L. K. Charles , to create 1628 Montjoy Blount , Lord Montjoy , E. of Newport , 3 Car. Aug. 3 , who is now Master of the Ordnance , and of the Counsell for warre , Anno 1641. NORFOLK . NOrfolk is the greatest County of Eng. next to Yorksh . but far more populous than that ; as comprehending in the whole 660 Parish Churches , of which 27 are market towns . It antiently was a part of the Iceni , and next the Northern part of the Kingdome of the East-Angles , from whence it had the name of Northfolk , as hath the Southern people of it , the name of Southfolk . The soyle according to the variety of places is of different nature ; in some fat , rank , and full of moysture ; in others very light and sandy : yet so that one contributing unto the other , and the sea giving help to both , it is a very plentifull country for corne , sheep and fish . The people norably industrious both for plough and manufactures ; in somuch that one shall hardly see a begger throughout all the Countrey : And yet ( which makes the merveile much the greater ) they are notable wranglers , well versed and studied in the quirks of Law , and consequently create more work for the Assises , than almost all the circuit else . But then it is observed withall , that this disposition hath brought some reputation with it , as furnishing the Courts of Iustice with many an eminent man in the laws of Eng : and yeelding generally the best breed of Lawyers . It is observed , by a great antiquary of this Kingd . that in this County are 100 Families of antient Gentry , which never were attainted of high treason , which if it be true , the Gentry of Norfolk have had better fortune than the Dukes and Earles . 1070 1 Ralph . de Ware , E. of Norf.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1137 2 Hugh Bigot . 1177 3 Rog. Bigot .   4 Hugh Bigot . 1125 5 Rog. Bigot . 1270 6 Rog. Bigot .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1312 7 Tho. de Brotherton , first son of K. Edw. 1 , E. of Norf. 1398 8 Marga. daugh . of Tho. of Brotherton , Duch. of Norf.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1398 9 Tho. L. Mowbray son of the Lad. Marg. D. of Norf. * 1427 10 Iohn Mowb. * 1434 11 Iohn Mowbray . * 1461 12 Iohn Mowbray . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1475 13 Rich. D. of York , & Norf. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1483 14 Iohn L. How. descended from the Lad. Margaret daugh of Tho. 1. D. of Norf. died 1486. * 1512 15 Tho. How. L. Tr. and Adm. * 1524 16 Tho. How. L. Tr. * 1554 17 Tho. How. last D. of Norf. died 1572. NORTHAMPTON . THe County of Northampton , is situate almost in the very middle and heart of Eng. A Champion Countrey for the most part , exceeding populous , and so replenished with Townes and Churches , ( being in all 326 , whereof 10 are markets ) that in some places there are 20 or 30 steeples to be seen at once . The soyle exceeding fertile both for tillage and pasture , maintaining numerous flocks of sheep , and herds of cartell ; but somewhat destitute of woods . It takes name from Northampton , the chiefe towne thereof , seated upon the river Nen ; which antiently called A●fona , but corruptly Antona , bestowed this name upon the town , being indeed built on the Northern bank . A town which for the beauty and circuit of it , may be well ranked with many Cities of the Kingdome : and heretofore so safe and sure by reason of the strong wals , ( from whence there is a goodly prospect into all the County ) & a strong Castle , no● demolished ; that once the students of Cambridge had a purpose to remove their Vniversity unto it . This strength however made it obnoxious to some disadvantage , as being a place much aimed at in our Civill wars , and many a battaile fought about it , Yet never were the times so turbulent , or the place so dangerous , but that there were some persons of superior ranke , who did afsect the name , and enjoy the title of Earles and Marq. of Northampton .   1 Walt. E. of Huntingdon .     ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Simon de Senlis married Maud daugh . of Waltheof . 1153 3 Simon de Senlis .   4 Sim de Senlis .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1337 5 Wil. de Bohun . * 1360 6 Humf. de Boh. who being after E. of Hereford , added this title to that house , from whom it came unto the Staff. D. of Buck. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1547 7 Wil. L. Parre , Marq. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1693 8 Hen. How. brother of Tho. last D. of Norf. L. Pr. Scale . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1618 9 Wil. L. Compton , cr . E. of Northa . 16 Jac. Aug. 2. L. Pres . of Wa. * 1630 10 Spencer Compton , now E. 1641. Northumberland is a more contracted namenow , than in former times . Heretofore it included all the Countries on the North of Humber , possessed of old by the Brigantes , and the Ottadini , now only the extreame and most northerne part , betwixt the rivers of Tine and Twede , all which the Ottadini once inhabited . The aire exceeding sharp and piercing , as being often visited with boystrous winds , hard frosts , and tedious snows ; to remedy which it yeelds abundance of sea-coale for fuell , and at very cheap rates . The soyle in generall neither fertile for corn or pasturage , as being for the most part exceeding rough and very hard to be manured , only in some parts towards the sea , by the late industry of the ploughman , and benefit of sea-weed , wherewith they do improve their ground , it is become indifferent fruitfull . The Countrey meanly populous , and but ill inhabited ; partly by reason of the barrenness : of the Country , as before is said , and partly for the bad neighbourhood of the Scots , as commonly it is in March-lands ▪ or frontier countreyes . In this regard , it had almost as many Castles for defence of themselves , as is Parish Churches for the service of God , there being 26 of the one , and but 46 of the other ; but then withall the Parishes were and are exceeding large , and have many Chappels of case perteining to thē , which inconvenience of the soyle & seas may possibly have beene the reason why the possession of it held not long in any Family ( although the title and possession of it had been given to many ) untill the Percyes : who not without some interruption too , have continued long . By reason of which intermixture of severall Families ; it hath given to those Families the severall titles of Duke , and Earles of Northumberland . 1065 1 Morcar . E. of Northumb.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1071 2 Gospatrick .   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1072 3 Waltheof . E. of Huntingd.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1076 4 Walcher Bish of Durham .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1086 5 Rob. de Mowb. devested 1095.     ✚ ✚ ✚   6 Hen Pr. of Scotl.   7 William K of Scots .     ✚ ✚ ✚   8 Hugh Pudsey B. of Durham .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1377 9 Hen. Per. L. Const . 1414 10 Hen , Percy . 1455 11 Hen. Percy . 1461 12 Hen. Percy .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1465 13 Iohn Nevill , L. Monta. cr . E. of Northumb. by K. Edw. 4 , who after 6 yeares resigned it to the said Hen. Percy . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1489 14 Hen. Percy .   15 Hen. Percy died 1537.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1551 16 Iohn Dudley E. of Warwick , and L. Adm. D. of Northumb. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1557 17 Tho. Percy , E. of Northumb. * 1574 18 Hen. Percy . 1585 19 Hen. Percy . * 1633 20 Algernon Percy , now E. of Nort. and L. Adm. 1641. * NORWICH . NOrwich is the chiefe City of Norfolk , and took that name as did the County , from the Northern situation of it . It standeth upon the river of Yare , which runs thence to Yarmouth , lying out in length a mile and an half ; not above halfe so much in breadth , and in that space conteineth about 30 Parishes ; well walled about with many a turret , and 12 gates for entrance . A City which for faire buildings , and resort of people , the painefull industry of the common sort , the great humanity of the richer , and the firme loyalty of all , in seditious times , may justly be accounted the 3 of England . Amongst the buildings those of speciall note ( next unto their Churches ) are the 2 Palaces of the D. of Norfolk , and earles of Surrey . And for the wealth and opulence , which it now enjoyeth , it standeth much indebted to the Netherlanders , who flying from the D. of Alva , and the Inquisition , brought with them the making of baies and sayes and other manufactures ; whereby the poore are set on work , and the rich grow pursie . A place that hath been honored long with a see Episcopall , but never made a title of Civill honour , till 1626 Edw. L. Denny of Walthan was cr . E. of Norwich , 2 Car. Aug. 24. Mort sans issue masle . NOTTINGHAM . Nottinghamsh , antiently was a part of the Coritani , well watred with the river of Trent , and many other pleasant streames . The people generally divide it into the sand , and the clay ; that being the E. part , taking up the forrest of Sherwood , famous for Rob. Ho●d , and his companions , this being the South , and Eastern part , more fruitfull , and more fit for corne ; and throughout well furnished both with wood and coale . It conteineth in it 168 ▪ Parishes , of which the chiefe , and that from whence the shire takes name is Nottingham . A Town well seated on the Trent , though very high upon an hill which overlookes it : for buildings , and faire streets , and a spatious market place , not giving way to many Cities . But that which gave the greatest ornament unto it , was indeed the Castle , a Royall and magnificent building , which for strength , statelinesse , and command of prospect , may justly challenge the precedency of the best in Eng. Of Martimets hole there , who was hence haled to his executiō , and of the long imprisonment which David K. of Scots here suffred , the people areas good as a common Chronicle , and intermixe too , not a few Fables with the truth of story . But that which we have good record for , without fraud or fiction , is that it hath afforded in successive Ages , these Lords and Earles of Nottingham .   1 Wil. Peverell , L. of the honour of Nottingham .   2 Wil. Peverell , L.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1141 3 Rob. de Ferrers , married Margar. daughter of Wil. Peverell .     ✚ ✚ ✚   4 Iohn , after K. of Eng.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1377 5 Iohn L. Mowbray . 1382 6 Tho. Mow. E. Mar. after D. of Nor. 1400 7 Tho. Mow. E. M. and D. N. 1405 8 Iohn Mow. E. M. and D. N. * 1432 9 Iohn Mow. E. M. and D. N. * 1461 10 Iohn Mow. E. M. and D. N. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1475 11 Rich. D. of York , 2 son of K. Edw. 4 married the La. Anno , sole child of Iohn D of Norf.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1483 12 Wil. L. Berkley descended from the L. Isab . daugh . of Tho. 1. D. of Nor. & E. of Nott. 1597 13 Charles L. How. of Essing & L. Adm. descended ▪ by the home of Not from the Mow.   14 Charles How. now E. of Nottin . Anno 1641. OXFORD . OXford-shire is a part of the Dobuni , situated North-ward of the Thames , which parteth it all along from Berk shire . A plentifull and fruitfull Countrey , wherein the plaines are garnished with cornefields and meadows , the hils well covered with woods and the downes with sheep , and wanting in no kind of pleasure , which either hawke or hound can afford a Gentleman . It conteines in it , being no great circuit , 270 Parish Churches , and 10 market townes , the chiefe of which in name and beauty , giving denomination to the County , is the famous City and Vniversity of Oxford . A faire and goodly City , both for site and building ; whether one look on the magnificence of the publique structures , or the compacted uniformity of private houses . And sure it may be said without immodesty and heard without dislike or envy , that for the statelinesse of the Schooles and publique Library ; the bravery and beauty of particular Colledges , all built of faire and polished stone ; the liberall endowments of those houses , and notable incouragements of industry and learning in the salary of the Professors in most Arts and Sciences ; it is not to be parallelled in the Christian world : and for the number of her studens , and the well ordering of those Students by good laws and ordinances , not to be equalled by any but her sister Cambridge . From whencè it had the name of Oxford , is adhuc sub judice : whether of Vad 〈…〉 Isidos , the ford of Ouse or Isis , on whose banks it stands , and so called Ousford ; or Vada boum , the ford of Oxen ( as the Greeks had their B●sphori in former times ) I determine not . Suffice it that this name is very antient , and that it antiently hath beene an Vniversity or seat of learning ; in which respect , it hath co-evity with that of Paris , if not priority above it , as being refounded by K. Alfred , Anno 806 , after it had been overborne a while by the Danish fury . Colledges it conteineth in all 18. Hals for students 6 , and about 13 Parish Churches . It is moreover a see Episcopall , and it hath withall received no small honour from the noble Family of the Veres , who now for 20 generations have been Earles of Oxford . 1067 1 Edgar Atheling :     ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Aubrey de Vere , L. high Chamb. 1146 3 Aubrey de Vere , L. high Ch. 1214 4 Rob. de Vere , L. high Ch. 1233 5 Hugh de Vere , L. high Ch. 1263 6 Rob. de Vere , L. high Ch. 1295 7 Rob de Vere , L. high Ch. 1331 8 Iohn de Vere , L. high Ch. 1358 9 Tho. de Vere , L. high Ch. 1310 10 Rob. de Vere , D. of Ireland . 1393 11 Aubrey de Vere . 1400 12 Rich de Vere . * 1415 13 Iohn de Vere . 1462 14 Iohn de Vere , L. high Ch. * 1512 15 Iohn de Vere , L. high Ch. 1526 16 Iohn de Vere . * 1539 17 Iohn de Vere , L. high Ch. 1562 18 Edw. de Vere , L. high Ch. 1604 19 Hen. de Vere , L. high Ch. 1624 20 Rob. de Vere . 1632 21 Aubrey de Vere , now Earle of Oxon , 1641. PEMBROKE . PEmbrok-shire was inhabited of old by the Dimetae , a Countrey quite surrounded by the Sea , save where it joyneth unto Cardigan and Carmarthen shires . A Countrey plentiful in corne and Cattell , not destitute of pit coale ; and which is far above the rest ( as Giraldus tels us ) considering that it is to neare to Ireland , of a temperate and wholesome Aire . It conteines in it 140 Parish Churches , and 5 Markets ; that which is most of note being Milford , renowned for its safe and capacious haven . But that from which it takes denomination , is the town of Pembrok , seated upon a forked arme of Milford haven , and in the best part of all the Countrey . A town consisting principally of one long street on a long narrow point of rock ; and hath within the wals thereof , two Churches . The Earles here of in former times were County Palatines , and passed al things that concerned that County under the seale of the Earldom . And it continued so untill the reigne of H. 8. when as Wales was reduced to England , and the authority of the great Lords there , dissolved by Parliament . Since which the Earles of Pembrok have been meerely titular , as of other places , and of each sort were these in their severall Ages , the Marq. and Earles of Pembrok . 1139 1 Gilb. de Calre . 1149 2 Ric. de Clare , sirnamed Strongbow .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1199 3 Wil. Mar. married Isabel , daughter and heire of Rich. Strongbow . 1219 4 Wil. Marsh . and L. chiefe Iustice . 1231 5 Rich. Marsh . 1234 6 Gilb. Marsh . 1242 7 Walt. Marsh . 1245 8 Anselm Marsh .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1247 9 William de Valence halfe brother to King Henry the 3 whose wife was daughter of a sister of Ans . Marshall . 1296 10 Aymer de Valence .   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1341 11 Lawrence Hastings , who married the Lady Isabell de Valence . * 1348 12 Iohn Hastings . * 1373 13 Iohn Hastings .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1414 14 Humf. D. of Glocester .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1447 15 Wil. de la Pole ; D. of Suff.   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1452 16 Iasp . of Hatfeild half brother to K. H. 6 , after D. of Bedf. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1468 17 Wil. Herbert . * 1469 18 Wil. Herbert .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1479 19 Edvv. Prince of Wales , son of K. Edw. 4.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1532 20 Anne Bolen , Marchionesse . of Pemb. wife of K. H. 8.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1551 21 Wil. Herb. L. Steward , crea . E. of Pemb. by K. Edw. 6. * 1570 22 Hen. Herbert . * 1601 23 Wil. Herb. L. Steward and Chan. of Oxon. * 163● 24 Philip Herb. now E. of Pembrok and Montgom . and L. Chamberlaine , 1641. * PETERBVRGH . OF Peterburgh , as it is an Episcopall see , we have spoke already and have not much to adde of it , as it hath the title of an Earldom . It standeth in the very nooke or angle of Northampton-shire ; where formerly had been a gulfe or whirle poole of exceeding depth : but made firme ground by Wolpher K. of the Mercians , when with great paines and diligence , he laid the foundation of the Church . A Town , but for the Church , of no great nore , as standing out of the way for trade and traffick , and seated in no plausible place ; whether one look to health or pleasure . Yet by occasion of the Abbey in the former times , and now by reason of the Bishop there ; it drawes resort of people for dispatch of businesse , hath a large marketplace , a faire Parish Church , and a handsome streets . Of late unto the Ecclesiasticall relation of it is joyned an honourary , it pleasing he Kings Majesty that now is , to create 〈…〉 ▪ 1627 Iohn L. Mordant , E. of Peterburgh , 3 Car. March. 9. who now enjoyes that title , Anno 1641. PORTLAND . POrtland , was once a little Island , but now adjoyneth to the mainland of Dorset-shire , lieth full against the good town of Weymouth , and seemes to take this name from Port , a noble Saxon , who about the yeare 703 infested and annoyed these Coasts , and made here his station . It is not above 7 miles in compasse ; and very scatteringly inhabited ; but plentifull enough of corne , and good for pastures . On the East side it hath a Church on the North a Castle , which seems to guard the entrance of Weymouth haven . But however it was in former times , it is now remarkable , it gave and gives the stile of Earle , 1632 1 Richard Lord Weston , L. high T 〈…〉 created Earle of Portland , Feb. 15. 8 Car. 1635 2 Hier. Weston now E. of Portland , Anno 1641. RICHMOND . RIchmond-shire is no County of it selfe , but a part of York-shire lying towards the North-west , with rugged rocks and swelling mountaines , whose sides in some places be are good grasse , the bottomes underneath not being unfruitfull ; and in the hils themselves are found good mines of lead and pit-coale . The chiefe Town of the whole is Richmond , of a small circuit in the wals , but by reason of the Suburbs lying out in length , very well peopled and frequented . A Town first built by Alane E. of Bretagne , the first E. here , after the entrance of the Normans , who fenced it with a wall and a most strong Castle , the better to assure these parts against the English , and having finished , the same according to his own content , gave it the name of Richmount , as a place equally participating of strength and beauty . It standeth on the banks of the river of Swale , which with a mighty noise runneth underneath it : A River reputed very sacred by antient English , for that in it , Paulius the first Archb. of Yorke baptized in one day above 10010 men , besides women and children . The Earles of Bretagne for a long time together continued in the title and possession of this Countrey : Since it hath been bestowed upon other Families , who in their severall times have been adorned with the stile of Dukes and Earles of Richmond .   1 Alan the Red , E. of Bretagne . 1093 2 Alan the black , E. of Breta .   3 Steph. E. of Bret. 1104 4 Alan E. of Bret. 1166 5 Conan D. of Bret.   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1170 6 Geof . Plantag . son of K. H. 2 , married Const . daught . of Conan . 1186 7 Arthur , the son of Geof .     ✚ ✚ 1201 8 Guido , Visc . of Touars , 2 husband of Constance .     ✚ ✚ ✚   9 Randolph of Chester , 2 husband of Constance .     ✚ ✚ ✚   10 Peter of Dreux , D. of Bret.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1241 11 Pet. of Savoy unckle to Qu. Eleon . wife of H. 3.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1268 12 Iohn de Dreux , D. of Bret. 1305 13 Iohn de Dreux , D. of Bret.   14 Iohn de Bret. E. of Richm. 1334 15 Iohn de Dreux , D. of Bret.   16 Iohn de Montf . D. of Richm.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1341 17 Iohn of Gaunt , after D. of Lanc.     ✚ ✚ ✚   18 Iohn de Montf . sirnamed the valiant , D. of Bret. and E. of Rich.     ✚ ✚ ✚   19 Ralph Nevill , E. of Westm . cr . E. of Rich. for term of life . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1425 20 Iohn D. of Bedford . *   ✚ ✚ ✚ 1452 21 Edm. of Haddam , halfe brother to K. H 6.   22 Hen. E. of Rich. after K. of Eng.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1525 23 Hen. Fitz-Roy base son of H 8. D. of Rich. and Somerset , L. Adm. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1613 24 Lodow. D. of Lennox , crea . E. of Richm. 11 Jac. Oct. 9. and after D. of Rich. 1623 , May , L. Stew. RIVERS . THe title of Earle Rivers is of different nature from all the rest of England , those being locall ( that of E. Marsh , excepted ) and this nominall : those taking their denomination from some speciall place , and this from an illustrious Family . The antient name was Redvers , or de Ripariis ; thence it came to Rivers . At first they were but Barons of Plimpton in the County of Devon ; after they came to bee Earles of Devonsh . which title 8 of them enjoyed successively , and then the masculine issue failing , the name and patrimony both were lost amongst the female or heires generall . From some of these , as 〈◊〉 conjecture , came S. Rich. Woddeville , whom first K. H. 6. advanced unto the honourable title of L. Rivers , and after Edw. 4. marrying his daughter , advanced him higher , and made him E. Rivers . Which title ending in the 3 E. of this name and Family , was since again revived in the honourable houses of Darcy and Savage , this last deriving a descent hereto by the line of Worcester , & Huntington , from one of the daught . and coheires of the first E. Rivers , whom and his successors take in order , thus 1466 1 Rich. Woodville , L. Tr. and L. Con. father of Qu. Eliz. wife of Edw. 4* 1469 2 Ant. Wood. * 1483 3 Rich. Wood.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1626 4 Tho. L. Darcy Visc . Colch . cr . E. Rivers . 2 Car. Nov. 4. 1639 5 Iohn Savage , son of Tho. Visc . Sav. and Eliz. his wife , eldest daught . and one of the coheires of Tho. E. Riv. by vertue of a speciall entaile in the said creation , succeeded him in the titles of Earle Rivers , and Visc . Colchester , is now living , 1641. RVTLAND . RUtland , for quantity , is the least Country of Eng. for quality not inferior to the very best , as being a pleasant and fruitfull Countrey , especially about the vale of Catmosse . The earth thereof is generally very red of colour , so red that even the fleeces of the sheep are coloured with it ; in which regard it had the name of Rudland , the Saxons calling that Rud , which we now call Red , as we retaine the use of Ruddy still ; in the selfe-same sence . Heretofore it was reckoned for a part of Northampton-sh . not made a County till of late ; and now again is laid unto Northampton-sh the better to make up a Diocesse for the see of Peterburgh . It contineth in it but 48 Parish Churches in the whole ; the chiefe of which are Uppingham and Oakham , two small market towns , of which the last is the shire town for the Assises , Sessions , and all publique businesses . Yet small and little though it be , can shew the seats and titles of 4 Parliamentary Barons ; and besides that hath honored many a noble person with the name and title of Earles of Rutland . 1390 1 Edw. Planta . eldest son of Edm. of Langley D. of York *     ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Ed● . Plantage . 2 son of Rich. D. of York .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1525 3 Tho. Mannours , L. Roos , descended by the L● Anne his mother from the said Rich D. of York , cr . E. of Rutland by K. H. 8. * 1543 4 Hen. Man. * 1563 5 Edw. Man. * 1586 6 Iohn Mann . 1587 7 Rog. Man. 1612 8 Franc. Man. 1632 9 Geor. Man. 1641 41 Iohn Man. now Earle of Rutland , 1641. SALISBVRY . SAlisbury is the chiefe City of Wilish . antiently called Sorbiodunum , which name it held untill the entrance of the Saxons , who gave new names and laws to all parts of Eng. It was at first seated high upon an hill , as being a place designed for strength and war , yet honored for a while with a Bishops see , and a faire Cathedrall . But the Bishops and the Clergy finding no good quarter amongst the Souldiers , which were there in garrison , and being destitute of water on so dryan hill ; about the time of Rich. 1 , began to leave it , and plant themselves down lower by the water side . Being once setled there , and raising a new Minster for Gods publike service , the people also followed after , and left old Sarum to it self , which in short space became so totally deserted , that now the ruines of it are hardly visible . But for new Salisbury , that grew up presently into great renown , pleasantly seated on the river , which watreth every street thereof , and for the populousnesse of the place , plenty of provision , a spacious market place , and a faire Townhall , is esteemed to be the second City of all this Tract . And which addes no small lustre to it , a place that hath been very fortunate in those ominent persons , on whom the Kings of England have bestowed the title of Earles of Salisbury .   1 Patrick d'Evreux . 1168 2 Wil. d'Ev.     ✚ ✚ ✚   3 Wil. Long-espec ; base son of K. H. 2 who married Ella , daughter of Wil. d'Ev. 1225 4 Wil. Long-espee .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1333 5 Wil. de Montacute . * 1343 6 Wil. de Mont. 〈◊〉 1396 7 Iohn de Mont. 1400 8 Tho. de Mont. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1428 9 Rich. Nevill , who married Eleanor daughter of Th. Mont. L. Ch. * 1460 10 Rich. Nevill , E. of Warwick . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1472 11 Geo. D. of Clarence , who married Isab . daugh . of Rich. E. of War. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1477 12 Edw. eldest son of K. Rich. 3. and Anne , the 2 daugh . of Rich. Nev.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1514 13 Marg. daugh of Geo. D. of Clar. cr . Countesse of Salisb. by K. H. 8.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1605 14 Rob. Cecil , Visc Cranborn , cr . E. of Salisb. 3 Jac. May 4● L. Tr. * 1612 15 Wil. Cecil now E. of Salisbury , and Captain of the Pensioners , 1641. * SHREWSBVRY . SHrewsbury is the principall town in Shropshire , called by our Ancestors the Saxons Scrobbesbyrig , for that it was of old a very thicket of shrobs . A place that rose out of the ruines of old Uriconium , seated not far off ; but grew not into any great request till the Norman Conquest . The town stands neatly on a hill , and is almost incompassed round by the river Severn : that part thereof which is not fenced by the River , being fortified with a very strong Castle built by Roger de Montgomery , the first E. hereof . A faire and goodly Town it is , well traded and frequented by all sorts of people both Welch & Eng. by reason of the trade of cloth , and other merchandise ; this being the common mart or empory between Wales & Eng. It standeth in the very midst or center , as it were , of the whole County , which generally is inferiour unto none about it , for delight and plenty ; and for the number of Townes and Castles standing exceeding thick on every side ( as having formerly been a frontier-Country ) very far above them . It belonged antiently to the Cornavii , and presently on the Norman Conquest , was bestowed on Roger de Montgom , whom before I spake of , who and his successors , and since them the honorable Family of the Talbots , enjoyed the stile and title of Earles of Shrewsbury . 1067 1 Rog. de Montgomery . 1093 2 Hugh de Montg . 1098 3 Rob. de Montg .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1442 4 Iohn Talbot Marsh . of France , cr . E. of Shrewsbury by K. H. 6. * 1453 5 Iohn Talbot , L. Tr. * 1460 6 Iohn Talbot . 1473 7 Geo. Talbot . * 1541 8 Francis Talbot . * 1559 9 Geo Talbot . * 1590 10 Gilb. Talboy . * 1616 11 Edw. Talbot . 1618 12 Geor. Talbot . 1630 13 Iohn Talbot , now E. of Shrewsbury , 1641. SOMERSET . SOmersetsh , antiently was inhabited by the Belgae . A Country of a fertile soyle , hoth for corne and pasture , exceeding populous ( as comprehending in the whole 385 Parish Churches , where of 33 are market towns ) & furnished also with commodious havens for trade and traffick . A Country howsoever pleasant in the Summer season ; yet in the Winter time so deep & miery , that it is scarce passable ; from whence the people have a proverb , that it is bad for the Rider , but good for the abider . Yet in some parts thereof , those specially which are towards Wiltsh . it is both hilly and stony ; but in the bowels of those hils , particularly in those of Mendip , they find rich veines of lead , to the great enriching of the Country , and benefit to all the Kingd . It took this name from Somerton , once the most famous and considerable in all the County , now a small market Town of no note nor credit , but for a faire of Cattell which is kept there yearely ; in which respect Asserius calls it , Comitatum Somertunensem , or Somertonsh . But by the name of Somerset it is now best known , and by that name hath given the honorary title of Dukes , and Earles to   1 Wil. de de Mohun , E.     ✚ ✚ ✚   2 Wil. Long-espee ; E. of Salisb. and Somerset .     ✚ ✚ ✚   3 Reginald de Mohun .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1396 4 Iohn Beaufort eldest son of Iohn of Gaunt by his 3 wife , E. * 1409 5 Henry Beauf. 1419 6 Iohn Beauf. D. of Somer . * 1442 7 Edm. Beauf. E. and D. * 1454 8 Hen. Beauf. D. 1462 9 Edm. Beauf.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1499 10 Edm. 3 son of K. H. 7.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1525 11 Hen. Fitz-Roy , base son of K. H. 8. D. of Somer . & Rich. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1546 12 Edw. Seym , L. Pro. of K. E. 6. D. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1614 13 Rob. Carre , Visc . Rochester , cr . E. of Somer . 12 Jac. now living , 1641. * SOVTHAMPTON . SOuthampton is the 2 Town of Hamp-shire , in bignesse and circuit , but not inferiour to the first for wealth and riches . A Towne commodiously seated on an arme of the sea , and capable of ships of burden to the very Keie ; the opportunity whereof hath made it very faire and populous , as having in it 〈◊〉 Churches for Gods publique service , fenced with strong wals and a double ditch , and to secure the haven with a right strong Castle , which now time hath ruined . It standeth on the banks of the river of Anton , ( which rising about Andover , runs here into the Sea ) from whence it had the name of Southampton and by that name hath given denomination to the whole Countrey , though generally it be called Hamp-shire . A Country rich in all commodities , both of sea and land , and in the upper parts thereof , those which are farthest from the sea , of a very pure and excellent aire . It conteines in it 253 Parishes , many of which have Chappels of ease as big as Parish . besids those in the Isle of Wight , which is reckoned for a part of Hantshire . To return back unto the Town , which though it bee within the County , yet is a County in it self ( for which it stands beholding to K. H. 6. ) And both before and since hath been counted worthy to be the highest honourary title of 1067 1 Beauvois of Hampton , that famous Soldier so much talked of .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1527 2 William Eitz-Williams , Lord Adm.   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1547 3 Thomas Wriothesley , Lord Chancellour , created Earle of South . by K. Edw. 6. 1550 4 Henry Wriothesley 1581 5 Henry Wriothesley . * 1624 6 Thomas Wriothesley now Earle , 1641. STAFFORD . STaffordsh . apperteined antiently to the Cormibii ; a potent people in these parts , which afterwards by Beda , were called Angli mediteranei , or the midland Englishmen . A Countrey on the north part full of hils , and woods ; on the South ; stored with coales and mines of iron ; and in the middle part where it is watred with the Trent , bravely adorned with meadows , & faire fields of corn It conteineth in it 120 villages with Parish Churches , the City , or Episcopal see of Lichfeild . & 12 other market Towns , of which the chief is Staff. on the river of Owe ; the head Town of the shire , which from thence taketh name . A Town exceedingly beholding to the Barons of Staf. who were once Lords hereof and were hence denominated : who both procured it to be made a Burrough , with ample priviledges , by K. John , and also fenced it with a wall , save where it was secured by a large poole of water on the East and North. And on the other side , the Town by way of thankfull retribution , honored that noble Family with the stile of E. who were from hence entituled in their severall ages , Earles , & Lords and Visc . of Stafford . 1353 1 Ralph Stafford , E. * 1372 2 Hugh Staff. 1383 3 Tho. Staff.   4 Wil. Staff.   5 Edm. Staff. * 1403 6 Hen. Staff , D. of Bucking . * 1444 7 Hum. Staff E. 1460 8 Hen. Staff. D. of Buck. * 1486 9 Edw. Staff. D. of Buck. * 1521 10 Hen. Staff. L.   11 Edw. Staff. L.   12 Hen. Staff. L. who dying An. 1639 the Family of the Staffords died also with him , and is quite extinguished . 1640 13 Wil. How. Knight of the Bath , 2 son of Tho. E. of Arundel and Surrey , having to wife a sister of the last L. Staff. was by his Majesty now being cr . Visc . Staff. in Nov. 1640 , and is now living , Anno 1641. STAMFORD . STamford is the hithermost Town of Lincoln-sh . seated upon the river W●lland , by which it is there parted from Northampton-sh . It standeth in that part thereof , which is called Kesteven , of which it is the principall town . A town vvell peopled and of great resort , conteining about 7 Parish Churches . But that which gives it most renown , is that upon some quarrell and contention between the Southern and Northern men in the Vniversity of Oxford , the Schollers in the reign of King Edw. 3 removed hither , and here held publique schooles of al sorts of learning . Nor did they leave the place , or return again , untill they were commanded so to do by the Kings Proclamation , and thereupon it was ordeined in the Vniversity , that the Schollers in the taking of their degrees , should make oath , not to reade publiquely at Stamford , to the prejudice of Oxford . Neverthelesse Tovvn still flourished in trade and merchandise , and doth now give the title of an Earle to 1628 Hen. L. Grey of Groby , cr E. of Stamf. 3 Car. March. 26 , now living . Anno 1641. STRAFFORD . STrafford , or Strasforth is the name of a Wapontake , or hundred , in the West-riding of York-shire , and lieth on the South therof , where it abutteth on the Counties of Nottingham and Darby . A territory of a large extent , conceived to be almost as big , as the whole County of Rutland , and in it comprehending the good towns of Sheafeld , Rotheram , Doncaster , and the honour of Tickhil , besides many smaller Villages and Hamlets . The ancient Family of the Wentworths , out of which cometh the Earle of Cleveland , have long flourished here , and have their seate at Wentworth-Wood house , and many a faire and large possession in this Wapontake . In which consideration , it was selected purposely for the highest title of 1639 Tho. Visc Wentworth , L. Newmerch and Oversley , and L. Deputy of Ireland , cr . E. of Strafford and Baron of Raby , with great solemnity at Whitehall , 15 Car. Jan 12 , and shortly after L. Lieut. of Ireland . SVffolk was antiently part of the Iceni , and afterwards together with Cambridg-sh . and Norfolk , made up the Kingdome of the East Angles , of which this being the Southerne part gave to the Count. and the people both the name of Southfolk . A very large and spacious countrey , conteining 575 Parish . Chur. of the which 28 are market townes , with many a safe and capacious haven . Of those the most remarkable towards the sea , is Ipswich , a very faire and spacious town , well peopled and well traded too : adorned with 14 Churches for the service of God , & many a faire and goodly edifice for private use . That of most credit in the Island is Bury , or S. Edmundsbury , heretofore famous for the Abbey , valued at the suppression at 23361. 16● . per ann . a fine neat town , and much inhabited by the Gentry , who resort thither from all parts of the Countrey . As for the Coun. it selfe it sheweth in every place most rich & goodly fields of corne , with grounds as battaille and rich for the feeding of Cattell , wherof there is good plenty out of question , as may appeare by the great store of cheese here made and vented to the great commodity of the inhabitants , not only into all parts of Eng. but Spain , France and Germany . Long time it was , before the title of Suffolk was conferred on any . But when the Gapp was opened once , it hath been severally conferred on several Families , who as they stood in grace and favour with their Princes , attained the titles of Dukes , Marq. and Earles of Suffolk . 1335 1 Rob de Vsford , E. * 1369 2 Wil. de Vsford . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1385 3 Mich. de la Pole , L. Ch. 1389 4 Mich. de la Pole. 1414 5 Mich. de la Pole.   6 Wil. de la Pole , first E. after Mar. & at last D. of Suff. * 1450 7 Iohn de la Pole , D. * 1491 8 Edm. de la Pole , E. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1513 9 Char. Brandon , D. of Suff. L. great Master . * 1545 10 Hen. Brandon .   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1551 11 Hen. Grey , Marq Dorset , married Frances daugh . of Ch. Brandon , and was D. of Suff. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1603 12 Tho. L. How. of Walden , cr . E. of Suff. 1 Jac. July 21 , L. Tr. and Ch. of Camb *   13 Theo. How. E. of Suff. and L. Warden of the Cinque Ports . * 1640 14 Iames L. How. now E. 1641. SVNDERLAND . SUnderland is a demy-Island in the North-East part of the Bishoprick of Durham , over against the mouth of the river of Were ; which being pulled a sunder from the land , by the force of the Sea , hath the name of Sunderland . A place of no great note or reputation , till it was made the title of 1627 Emanuel Lord Scrope of Bolton and Lord President of the North , created Earle of Sunderland , 3 Car. Jun. 19. Mort sans issue . SURREY . SUrrey and Sussex antiently were inhabited by the Regni , and afterwards made up the Kingdome of the South-Saxons . This lieth on the South of the river Thames , whence it had the name ; the Saxons calling that Rea , which we call a River : and so from Suthrea , came the name of Surrey . A Countrey on the outward parts thereof very rich and fruitfull , especially on that side which is towards the Thames , where it yeelds plenty both of corne and grasse ; but in the middle part , somewhat hard and barren . From whence the people use to say , that their Countrey is like a course peece of cloth , with a fine list . And yet the middle parts thereof what they want in riches , they supply with pleasures as being famous for good aire , and well stored with parks ; the downes affording excellent opportunity aswell for horse-races , as hunting . A Country finally it is of no great quantity , and yet conteines 140 Parishes ( of the which 8 are market townes ) and amongst them the Royall mansions of Richmond , Otelands and None-such . The chiefe town of the whole is Guilford , a fine neat town , seated on the declining of an hill toward the river Mole , consisting of 3 Parish Churches ; which notwithstanding never gave title unto any , of Lord , Earle or higher . But that defect hath beene supplied by the whole body of the County , in the name of Surrey , with which our Kings have dignified these Dukes and Earles .   1 Wil. de Warren , E. 1088 2 Wil. de War. 1138 3 Wil. de War.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1148 4 Wil. de Blois son of K. Steph. first husband of Isa . de War.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1164 5 Hameline Planta . base son of Geo. E. of Anjou , and halfe brother to K. H. 3 , 2 husband of Isa . de War. 1202 6 Wil , Plantag . 1240 7 Iohn Planta . 1305 8 Iohn Plantag . died 1347.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1347 9 Rich. Fitz-Alan , E. of Arund . son of Alice , sister and heire of Ioh. Plantag . 1375 10 Rich Fitz. Alan , L. Tr.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1398 11 Tho. Holland , E. of Kent , and D. of Surrey . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1461 12 Iohn L. Mowb. son of Iohn Lord Mow. D. of Nor. aft . D. of Norf. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1475 13 Rich. 2 son of K. Edw. the 4 , D of York , and Norf. & E. of Sur. *   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1483 14 Tho. How. L. Tr. aft . D. of Norf. * 1514 15 Tho. How. L. Tr. & D. of Nor. * 1554 16 Tho. How. E. Marshall and D. of Norf died 1572. * 1604 17 Tho. How. grand son of Tho. D. of Norf. now E. of Arund . and Sur. and E. Marsh , 1641. * SVSSEX . SUssex is the other part of the old possessions of the Regnians after that of the South-Saxons , from whom it took the name of Suthsex . A Country that lyeth all along the Ocean in a goodly length , extending East and West above 60 miles ; and yet for all so long a Coast hath very few havens , the shore being full of rocks and shelves , and the wind impetuous . The Northerne parts towards Kent & Surrey are well shaded with woods , as was all the Country heretofore , untill the Iron works consumed them . The Southerne parts which are towards the sea , lying upon a chalke or marle , yeeld corne abundantly ; with a delightfull intermixture of groves and meadows . It conteines in it to the number of 312 Parishes , of which 18 are market towns . And amongst these the chief of note is Chichester , of which we need say nothing here , having spoke of it in its proper place , amongst the Bishopricks . It now rests only that I give you a compendious Catalogue of the Earles of Sussex .   1 Wil. de Albeney , E. of Arundell . 1178 2 Wil. de Alb. 1191 3 Wil. de Alb. 1199 4 Wil. de Alb. 1224 5 Hugh de Alb.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1243 6 Iohn Plantag . E. of Surrey . 1305 7 Iohn Plantag . E. of Sur.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1529 8 Rob. Radclyffe , Visc . Fitz-Walter , cr . E. of Sussex by K. H. 8. 〈◊〉 1542 9 Hen. Rad. 〈◊〉 1559 10 Tho. Rad. L. Ch. 〈◊〉 1583 11 Hen. Rad. 〈◊〉 1593 12 Rob. Rad. 〈◊〉 1630 13 Edw. Rad. now E. of Sussex , Anno 1641. THANET . THanet is a little Island in the North-East of Kent , environed on 3 parts by the sea , & towards the West , severed from the main-land of Kent , by the river of S●ourc , which is here called Yenlade . An Island by Solinus called Atlanatos , in some copies Thanatos ; from whence the Saxons had their Thanet , famous as in other things , so in these particulars , that it was here the Sax , landed when they came first for Britani ; and that S. Austin the Monk here landed also , when he brought the Gospel to the Saxons . The whole about 8. m. in leng . and 4 in brea , was reckoned then to hold about 600 Families : and is now very populous for the bignesse , and very plentiful withall of all commodities necessary , but of corn especially . The people generally are a kind of Amphibii , and get their livings both by sea and land , being well skilled according to the year , aswel in stearing of a ship at sea , as holding of the plough at land ; & in both courses notably industrious . Such is the Isle of Tha●et , which was of late times made the title of an Earldome , in the persons of 162● 1 Nico. L. Tufton . cr . E. of Thanet , 4. Car. Aug. 5.   2 Iohn Tuf . E. of Thanet now living Anno , 1641. TOTNES . TOtnes is a Town in the Southwest of Devonshire , situate on the banks of the River of Dert , about 6 miles from its influxe into the Sea. An ancient little Town it is , and standeth on the fall of an hill , lying East and West . It hath a Major for the chiefe Magistrate , and so hath had ever since the time of K. John ; and being a burrough town withall , hath a vote in Parliament . The greatest reputation which it had in the former times , was that it gave the title of an Arch-deacon , to one of 4 Arch-deacons of the Diocesse of Exeter , who is hence called Arch-deacon of Totnes , And by that name George Carew , Doctor in Divinity ( after Deane of 〈…〉 subscribes the Acts of Convocation , 〈◊〉 1536 which possibly may be the reason , why 1625 George L. Carew of Clopton , son of the said George , desired , as hee enjoyed , the title of E. of 〈◊〉 , unto the which he was advanced , 〈◊〉 C 〈…〉 ▪ Feb. 〈◊〉 〈…〉 s issue . WARWICK . WArwickshire heretofore was part of the Cornavii , a Country which for aire and soyle , wants nothing for the profit or pleasure of man. It is divided into two parts by the river Avon , that on the South side being cald the Feldon , which yeelds good store of corn , and grasse , and makes a lovely prospect from the neighbouring hils ; that on the North being called the Woodland , from the great plenty of woods which grew here formerly , but nowgrown thin enough by the making of iron . It conteineth in it 158 Parishes and market towns ; of which the chief ( if one exclude Coventry as a County of it selfe ) is that of Warwick , called by the Romans antiently Praesidi 〈…〉 , from the garrison there , which name it still retained in a different language . A town adorned with very faire houses , a strong and well compact stone bridge on the river Avon , and two goodly Churches ▪ But the chief beauty of it heretofore , as now , is a most stately and magnificent Castle ; which as it was of late repaired at the great cost and charges of Sir Fulk Gre●ill , the late L. Broks , who therein dwelt ; so was it antiently the seat and abiding place of the Dukes and Earles of Warwick . 1067 1 Hen. de Newburgh , E. 1123 2 Rog. de New. 1153 3 Wil. de New. 1183 4 Waleran de New. 1200 5 Hen. de New. 1233 6 Tho. de New.   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1242 7 Iohn Marsh . first husb . of Margery sister and heire of Tho. de Nevv . 1243 8 Iohn de Plessetis , 2 husband of the said Margery .     ✚ ✚ ✚   9 Wale . de New. uncle and heire of the said Margery .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1262 10 Wil. Miuduit son of Alice sister & heire of Waleran .   ✚ ✚ ✚ 1258 1 Wil. Beauchamp , son of the La. Isa . sister and heire of Wil. Maud. 1291 12 Guido Beauch . 1315 13 Tho. Beau. E. Marsh . * 1369 14 Tho. Beau. * 1401 15 Rich. Beau. Regent of Fr. * 1439 16 Hen. Beau. D. of Warw.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1446 17 Rich. Nevill , who married Anne , sister of Hen. D. of Warw.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1471 18 Geo. D of Clarence , who married Anne , daughter of Rich. Nevill , E. of Warw. 1478 19 Edw. Plantag . son of George D. of Clarence .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1547 20 Iohn Dudley , Visc . Lis . descended from the Lady Margaret , daughter of Rich. Beauchamp , E. of Warw. * 1562 21 Amb. Dudley . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1618 22 Robert L. Rich of Leeze , created Earle of Warwick , 16 Jac. Aug. 2.   23 Rob. Rich , now living , 1641. WESTMORLAND . WEst morland was a part of the possessions of the old Brigantes , and lyeth on the West of York-sh . from whence and from the Mores , as they call them here ( that is , those barren heathy grounds , which are not tractable for corn ) it was named West-more-land . The ayre accounted sharp and piercing ; the soyle in most parts barren and unprofitable ; yet in the Vales , which are neither large nor many , indifferently fruitfull . So that the greatest profit and commodity , which here the people make unto themselves , is by the benefit and trade of cloathing . It containes in it only 26 Parishes , which plainly shews that either the Countrey is not very populous , or that the Parishes are exceeding large , as generally indeed they are , in these Northerne parts ; 4 of those 26 are market towns , the chiefe of which next Kendale ( which wee spake of formerly ) is called Appleby , and passeth for the shire town or head of the Countie . The Viponts antiently , and by them the Clyffords were the hereditary Sherifs hereof ; which notwithstanding , it pleased K. R. 2 , to adde unto the titles of the Nevils of Raby , the higher and more eminent stile of Earles of Westmorland . 1398 1 Ralph Nevill , L. of Raby , E. Marsh . 1425 2 Ralph Nevill . 1484 3 Ralph Nevill .   4 Ralph Nevill . * 1523 5 Hen. Nevill . 1564 6 Charles Nevill .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1624 7 Francis Fane , eldest son of Mary La. Despencer , descended from the Nevils E. of Westmorland , cr . E. of Westmorland , 22 Jac. Dec. 29. 1628 8 Mild may Fane , now E. of Westmorland , 1641. WILTSHIRE . WIlish belonging to the Relgae in the former times , took this new name from Wilton , once the chief town of it ; like as it of the river Willy , on the which it standeth . A region which as it breeds a race of hardy men , who in old time , with those of Devonsh . & Cornwal , chalenged the seconding of the main battaille in our Eng. armies ; so is it very plentifull and fruitfull , and withall very pleasant and delightsome . The middle parts thereof , which they call the Plaines , are most scant of corne ; but those plaines being large and spacious , & reaching round about to the horizon , do feed innumerable flocks of sheep , which bring as great commodity to the inhabitants by their fleece & wool , and the most gamefull trad of cloathing , as other parts that are more fertile . It conteineth in it 304 Parish , & is traded in 19 market towns ; the chiefe and fairest are Salisbury and Marlborough , which before we spake of Wilton was formerly the principall , & heretofore a Bishops see , honored with the residence of 9 severall Bishops : But by translating of the see to Salisbury , and carrying thither therewithal the throughfare into the West countrey , which before was here , it fel by little and little to decay , and is now hardly worth the reputation of a poor market town , yet still it gives denomination to the Country : as that the stile and honor to these Earles of Wiltshire . 1397 1 Wil. L. Scrope L. Tr. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1458 2 Iam. Butler , E. of Ormōd , & L. T. *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1470 3 Iohn Stafford . 2 son of Humf. D. of Buck. * 1473 4 Edw. Staff. died , 1499. 1510 5 Hen Staff. 2 son of Hen D. of Buck.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1529 6 Tho. Bollen , Visc . Rochf . father of the La. Anne Bollen . *     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1550 7 Wil. Pawlet , cr . after Mar. of Winchester , Anno 5. Edw. 6. * 1571 8 Iohn Paw . 1576 9 Wil. Paw . 1598 10 Wil. Paw . 1628 11 Iohn Paw . now Marq. of Winche . and E. of Wiltsh Anno 164● ▪ WINCHELSEY . WInchelsey is a sea . Town in the East part of Sussex , where it adjoyneth upon Kent , accounted ' by a general error to be open of the Cinq Ports ; whereas indeed it is no Cinq port , but a member of them , as Rhit and 〈…〉 sham , and others are . A Towne in former times of great strength and beauty , inclosed with strong wals , and a well placed Rampier , for the defence thereof against forreign force : but the sea shrinking from it by little and litle , brought the town by the like degrees into great decay , though still it beare the shew of a handsome town , and hath a Blockhouse for defence raised by H. 8. But what it lost in wealth , it hath got in honour , being advanced unto the reputation of an Earld . in the names and persons of 1628 1 El●● . Finch . Vise . Maidstone , cr , C. of Winchel . 4 Car. July 11. 1634 2 Hen. Finch , son of the said Eliz. 1639 3 Henneage Finch , E. of Winchelsey . now living , 1641. WINCHESTER . WInch , is the chief City of Ha 〈…〉 sh . & heretofore the seat Royal of the West-Saxon K. By Antonine and Ptolomy called Venta Belgarum ; and then accounted the prime City of all the Belgae , out of which Venta , adding ceaster to it , ( according to their wonted manner ) the Saxons hammered their Vent-ceaster , and we our Winchester . In these our dayes , it is indifferently wel peopled , and frequented , commodiously seated in a Valley betweene high steep hils , by which it is defended from cold and wind . It lyeth daintily on the banks of a pleasant river , stretching somewhat in length from East to West , and conteineth about a mile and a halfe within the wals , besides the suburbs ; but much within the wals is desolate and altogether unbuilt . Many things certainly thereare which may conduce unto the reputation of it , especially a beautifull and large Cathedrall , a goodly and capacious Palace for the Bishops dwelling , which they call Wolvescy house ; a strong and gallant Castle bravely mounted : upon an hill , with brave command on all the Countrey ; a pretty neat Colledge neare the wals , buile and endowed by Wil. of Wickham , for a seminary to his other in Oxford ; and not far off a very faire Hospitall , which they call Saint Crosses . And yet lest all this might not raise it high enough , our English Monarchs have thought fit to dignifie these following persons with the stile and title of Marq and Earles of Winchester . 1207 1 Saer de Quiney , E. 1220 2 Rog. de Quin. died 1264.   ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ 1322 3 Hugh Despencer , 1326.     ✚ ✚ 1472 4 Lewys de Bruges .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1551 5 Wil. Pawlet ; E. of Wil●sh . and L. Tr. cr . Marq. of Winch. by K. Edw. 6. 1571 6 Iohn Paw . 1576 7 Wil. Paw . 1598 8 Wil. Paw . 1528 9 Iohn Paw . now Marq : of Winchest . and E. of Wil●sh . Anno 1641. Worcestersh . is a part of the Gornavii , once a great nation in these parts . A Coun. of an aire so temperate , and a soyle so fortunate , that it gives place to none about her , for health and plenty . Abundant certeinly it is in all kinds of fruits ; and of peares especially ; wherewith , besides the use they have of them for the table , they make a bastard kind of wine , which they here call Pirry , which they both sell and drink in great abundance . Salcpits it also hath in some parts thereof , and about Powyck , and many places else good store of Cherries : and every where well watred with delicious rivers , which afford great variety of fish . A Country of no great extent for length and compasse , as not conteining above 152 Parish Churches , and amongst them 10 market towns . Of these the principall is Worcester , and gives denomination to the whole . A City delectably seated on the banks of S●v 〈…〉 ( which runneth quite through the County from North to South ) over which it hath a faire bridg with a tower upon it : and thence arising with a gentle ascent , affordeth to the upper parts , a very goodly prospect in the vale beneath . A City every way considerable , whether you looke upon it in the situation , or in the number of its Churches , or the faire near houses , or finally on the inhabitants , which are both numerous and wealthy , by reason of their trade of cloathing , which doth there flourish very much . Of the Cathed . here we have spoke before , and of the Castle we shall now say nothing , as having nothing left of it but the name and ruines . All we shall adde is a briefe nomenclature of The Earles of Worcester . 1144 1 Waleran de Beaumont .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1397 2 Tho. Percy , L. Adm.     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1420 3 Rich. Beauchamp .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1450 4 Iohn . Tiptoft , L. Tr. and L. Con. * 1471 5 Edw. Tiptoft .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1514 6 Char. Somer . L. Ch. cr . E. of Worcester by K. H. 8. 1526 7 Hen. Som. L. Herb.   8 Wil. Somerset . 1589 9 Edw. Som. Master of the Morse , & L. Privy Seale . * 1627 10 Hen. Som. now living , Anno 1641. YORK . York-shire is past all peradventure the greatest County in England , conteining 70 miles in length from North to South , and 80 miles in bredth from West to East ; the circuit being above 300. In this great quantity of ground , are not above 563 Parish Churches , which is no great number , but then withall there are great plenty of Chappels of Ease , equall for bignesse and resort of people , to any Parish ; elsewhere . The soyle is generally fruitfull in a very good measure . If that one part therof be stony and barren ground ; another is as fertile and as richly adorned with come and pasturage : If here you find it naked and destitute of woods in other places you shal find it shadowed with most spacious forrests : If it be somwhere moorish , mirie and unpleasant ; elsewhere it is as beauteous and delightsome as the eye can wish . It is divided ordinarily into 3 parts , which according to the quarters of the world are called East-Riding , West-Riding , and North-Riding ; Richmondsh . comming in to make up the 4 , which is a part of York-sh . as before was said . The whole was antiently possessed by the Brigantes , who were diffused all over those Northerne parts , beyond the Trent ; and for their capitall City had Eboracum , seated upon the river Vre which we now call Ouse ) in the Westriding of this County ; and by a later Saxon name is now called York . This is the 2 City of all Eng. both for fame and greatnesse ; A pleasant large and stately place , well fortified & beautifully adorned , as well with private as publike edifices , and rich and populous withall ; Seated ( as erst was said ) on the river Ouse , which cutteth it , as it were , in twaine ; both parts being joyned together with a faire stone bridge , consisting of high and mighty Arches . A City of great fame in the Roman times , and of as eminent reputation in all Ages since ; and in the severall turnes and changes , which have befallen this Kingdome under the Saxons , Danes and Normans , hath still preserved its antient lustre . Adorned it was with an Archiepiscopall see in the times of the Britans ; nor stooped it lower when the Saxons received the Faith. Rich. 2 , laying unto it a little territory on the Westside therof , made it a County of it selfe , in which the Archbishops of York enjoy the rights of Palatines . And for a further lustre to it , H. S. appointed here a Councell for the governance of the Northern parts , consisting of a L. P. recertaine Councellors , a Secretary and other Officers . And yet in none of these hath York been more fortunate , than that it adorned so many Princes of the Imperiall line of Germany and bloud Royall of England , with the stile and attribute of Dukes and Earles of York . 1190 1 Otho of Baveria E. of York .     ✚ ✚ ✚ 1385 2 Edm. of Langley 5 son of K. Edw. 3 E. of Camb. and D. of York . * 1401 3 Edw. Planta . son of Edm. of Lang. E. of Rutl. and D. of York . * 1426 4 Rich. Planta . nephew of Edm. of Lang. by his son Rich. E. of Cam. D. of York . * 1474 5 Rich. of Shrews . 2 son of K. Edw. 4. D. of York . * 1495 6 Hen. 2 son of K. H. 7. after K of En. 1604 7 Char. 2 son of K. James , now the 〈◊〉 Monarch of Gr. Brit. * 1633 8 Iames , 2 son of K Charles , declared D. of York , by his Royall Father , and so instituted , but not yet created . FINIS . A Supplement to the former Table , containing the Successions and Creations of the Dukes , Marquesses , and Earles of England , from the yeare 1641 , to the yeare 1652. Together with The Names and Rankes of the Viscounts and Barons , as they Stand at this present , Jan. 6. 1652. ARUNDEL . 1647. HEnry Howard , Lord Mowbray , succeeded Thomas Howard his Father in the Earledome of Arundel , and the rest of his Estates and Honours . BANBURY . 1641. Charles Knollis , son of William Lord Knollis Earle of Banbury , upon the death of the said William became Earle of Banbury . BEDFORD . 1641. William Russell , Eldest son of the Lord Francis Russell on the decease of his said Father succeeded in the Earledome of Bedford . BRENTFORD . BRentford a well known Town in the County of Middlesex , tooke name from the River Brent , which rising out of a fountaine now called Brawns-wed , but more truly Br●n-well , and passing betweene Henden and Hamsted hils , falleth at this place into the Thames . Of most renown in former times for the good successe which Edmund Iron-side King of England had against the Danes . Anno 1116. which he compelled hereby to rise from the Siege of London . Now of most note for the thorow-fare betwixt London and the westerne Countries , the passage up and down by water for the ease of travellers , a rich and well-frequented Market ; and that it giveth the title of Earle 1641 Patrick Ruthen Earle of Forth in Scotland created Earle of Breniford at Oxon May 27. in the 20 year of King Charles , the second Monarch of Great Brtitaine . BRIDGEWATER . 1646. John Egerton succeeded his Father , of the same , name , in the Earledome hereof . BULLINGBROOK . Oliver Saint-John , the grand child of Oliver Lord Saint-John , Earle of Bullingbrook , by Pawlet his second Son ( Oliver Lord Saint-John the eldest Son being slaine at the Battell at Edgehill ) succeeded his Grand-Father in this Title . CAMBRIDGE : 1649. William Hamilton Earle of Lanarick in the Realme of Scotland , brother of James Duke of Hamilton and Earle of Cambridge , succeeded after his decease in all his Honors and Estates . But dying without issue male not long after the great fighter Worcester , the Title of Earle of Cambridge was extinguished with him . CARNARVAN . 1643. Charles Dormer succeeded in this Earledome on the death of the Lord Robert Dormer his Father , slain at the first fight neare Newbery . CHICHESTER . CHichestr the chief City of Sussex , built by Cissa the second King of the South-Saxons , and by him called Cissanc-easter , or the City of Cissa , whence the present name . A City large enough , of a circular forme , and well walled ; the buildings generally faire , and the Streets capacious : foure of which leading from the foure Gates of the City cross one another in the middest : and in or neare that Crosse a very beautifull Market place , supported with Pillars round about , built by Bishop Read. Of no esteeme till the Norman Conquest , known only by a small Monastery of Saint Peter , and a little Nunnery . But on the removall of the Episcopall See from Sealesey hither , in the time of the Conquerour , it encreased both in wealth and greatness , and would be richer then it is , if the Haven not far off were made more commodious . At the present there is no small addition made to the honour of it , by giving the title of an Earle to 1643. Francis Leigh Lord Dunsmore created Earle of Chichester in the 19th . yeare of King Charles , the second Monarch of Great Brittaine . CUMBERLAND . 1643. Rupert Count Palatine of the Rhene , second Son ( living of Frederick Prince Elector Palatine , and the Princess Elizabeth his wife , the only Daughter of King James , was by King Charles his Uncle created Duke of Cumberland , ( the Family of the Cliffords ending in Henry the last Earl hereof ) and Earle of Holdernesse , January 24. 19. Caroli . DARBY . 1642. James Stanly Lord Strange , succeeded his Father William in the Earledome of Darby . 1651. Charles Stanley Lord Strange , on the death of James his Father , became Earle of Darby . DENBIGH . 1643. Basil Lord Feilding after the death of William his Father was Earle of Denbigh . DORCHESTER . DOrchester is the chiefe Town of the County of Dorset , so called from the Durotriges the old Inhabitants of these parts in the time of the Romans , or from the Durnium of Ptolomy , the word Chester being added by the Saxons afterwards . A Town of great Antiquity , as appeareth by many peeces of Roman Coine found neare unto it : once walled , and beautified with a strong and goodly Castle : but the wals many Ages since pull'd down by the Danes ; and the Castle being decaied and ruinous , converted into a Covent of Friers , now demolished also . Once of large compasse as may be well conjectured by the tract of the wals and trenches ; but in the time of the Danish furies so spoiled and plundered , that it never could recover the wealth and beauty which before it had : yet it hath still three Parish Churches , and seemeth in some sort to have recovered its former dignity , in giving the title of a Marquesse to 1645. Henry Lord Pierre-point Earle of Kingston , created Marquesse of Dorchester , in the 〈…〉 20 yeare of King Charles March 25. EXETER . Iohn Cecil , son of David Cecil succeeded his Father in this Earledoms . GLAMORGAN . GLamorgan is one of the Shires of South-wales , Lying along the Sea-coast , betwixt the Counties of Monmouth and Pembroke : once part of the Siluris , and by the Welch called Glath-Morgan , from Morgan a great Prince hereof , as some conceive , but rather from the word Mor , which in the antient British Language signifieth a Sea ; agreeable to the scituation of it , all along the Shores. The northern parts hereof very rough and mountainous , but the Southerne of a better composition , beautified with many pleasant valleyes , and traded on every side with a number of Townes , there being reckoned in it 118 Parishes , the chiefe of which for strength and beauty is the Town of Caerdiffe , the Barony at this time of the Earles of Pembroke . Reduced to the obedience of the Crown of England in the time of William Rufus by the valour of Robert Fitz-Haimon Lord of Corboile in Normandy , and 12 adventurous Knights , whom he brought in his company ; betwixt whom the Country was divided ( with the Kings consent ) as soone almost as conquered by them . But the Posterity of most of these Adventurers being quite worne out , the greatest Lords hereof were of the Family of the Herberts ; in which respect , 164● ▪ Edward Somerset Lord Herbert obtained of King Charles the title of Earle of Glamorgan , his Father the Lord Marquesse of Worcester being then alive . HARTFORD . 1641. William Seymore Earle of Hartford , was by King Charles in the 17th of his Reigne made Marquesse of Hartford . HEREFORD . 1646. Walter Devereux Knight , on the death of Robert Devereux Earle of Essix , ( the last Earle of that Family ) succeeded in the title of Viscount Hereford . HOLDERNESSE . 1643. Rupert Count Palatine of the Rhene , created Duke of Cumberland , and Earle of Holdernesse , Jan. 24. of whom more in Cumberland . HOLLAND . 1649. Charles Rich , son of Henry Rich Earle of Holland succeeded his Father in that honour . HUNTINGTON . Ferdinand Lord Hastings succeeded his Father the Lord Henry Hastings , in the Earledome of Huntingdon . KENT . 1642. Henry Grey son of Anthony , Henry Grey son of Henry . KINGSTON . 1644. Henry Pierre-point Viscount Newark , on the death of his Father Robert ▪ Lord Pierre-point Earle of Kingston succeeded him in his title of Earle , and was afterwards created Marquesse of Dorchester . LINDSEY . 1642. Montague Bertu , Lord Willoughby succeeded in this title on the death of the Lord Robert his Father , slaine at the battle of Edgehill . LICHFIED . LIchfield the chief City of Stafford-shire , signifieth in the old Saxon tongue , the field of dead bodies , so called from a number of Christian bodies which there lay unburied in the Persecution raised by Dioclesian . Situate in a low and moorish ground , on a shallow pool , by which divided into two parts , but joyned together by a bridge and a causey both together making up a City of indifferent bigness . In the South part , which is the greater of the two , stands a Grāmarschool for the education of their Children , and an Hospital dedicated to S. Iohn for relief of their poor . In the other parts not anything considerable but the fair Cathedrall , though that sufficient of self to renown the place . But hereof we have spoke already when we looked on Lichfield as honoured in the first times of Christianity among the Saxons with a Bishops See. Not made an honorarie Title till these Late daies , in which it gave the title of Earl to 1645. Barnard Steward , youngest son of Esme Duke of Lennox and Earl of March , created Earl of Lichfield , and Baron of Newbery , in the 21. year of the reign of King Charles . MANCHESTER . 1642. Edward Montague Lord Kimbolton succeeded his Father Henry in this Earldom . MARSHAL . 1647. Henry Howard , son and heir of Thomas Earl of Arundel , and Earl Marshal of England , enjoyed these with his other Honours , after his decease . MIDDLESEX . 1646. James Cranfield succeeded his Father Lionel Cranfield in the title of Middlesex . 1651. Lionel Cranfield the Brother of James . MONTGOMERIE . 1650. Philip Herbert son of Philip Earl of Pembroke and Montgomerie succeeded his Father in both titles . MOULGRAVE . 1648. Edmand Scheffield Nephew of Edmund Lord Sheffield Earl of Mouligrave , by Sir John Sheffield his second son , succeeded his Grandfather in the Earldom . NEWCASTLE . 1643. William Gavendish Earl of Newcastle created Marquess of Newcastle , Octob. 27. By Charles the second Monarch of Great Grittain . NORFOLK . 1644. Thomas Howard Earl of Arundel and Surrey , to prevent the alienation of this honour from his Family obtained to be created Earl of Norfolk , June 6. 1647. Henry Howard son and heir of Thomas . NORTHAMTON . 1643. James Lord Compton on the death of his Father Spencer Lord Compton stain in the Moorelands of Stafford-shire , succeeded in his estates and honours : NORWICH . 1644. George L. Goring , Novemb. 28. In the twentieth year of King Charles made Earl of Norwich . NOTINGHAM . Charles Howard , half brother to Charles Howard the last Earl of Notingham , suceeded him in estate and title . PEMBROKE . 1650. Philip Herbert son of Philip Earl of Pembroke and M●ntgomcrie , enjoyed both honours on the death of his Father . PETERBURG . 1643. Henry L. Mordant , son of Iohn Lord Mordant Earl of Peterburgh , succeeded him in Estate and honours . RICHMOND . 1641. Iames Stewart Duke of Lennox and E. of March by Charles the second Monarch of Great Britain made Duke of Richmond . August 8. SCARSDALE . SCarsdale is one of the Divisions of Darbyshire , a valley compassed round about with Rocks and Mountains , as the name imports : Dale in the Saxon and in old English signifying a valley ; and Scarre the cragginess of a Rock . The chief Town of it , Chester field , ( the Earldom of the L. Philip S●anhop ) from hence called Chester field in Scarsdale . Not else observable , but forgiving the title of an Earl to 1645. Francis Leak , L Deyneourt created E. of Scarsdale , Novemb. 15. 1645. STRAFFORD . 1641. William Wentworth son of Thomas L. Wentworth Earl of Strafford , succeeded his dead Father in this Earldom . SUNDERLAND . 1643. Henry L. Spencer ( the L. Scrope E. of Sunderland dying without Lawfull issue ) was by K. Charles honoured with this title , Iune 8. Robert Lord Spencer son of Henry . SURREY . 1647. Henry Howard , succeeded the Lord Thomas Howard his Father in the title of Surrey , as in these also of Earl of Arundel , Norfolk , and Earl Marshal . SUSSEX . 1644. Thomas Lord Savil of Pont-fract ( the families of the Ratcliffes ending in Edward the , Last Earl of that house ) was on the 25. May made Earle of Sussex . WORCESTER . 1642. Henry Somerset Earl of Worcester created Marquesse of Worcester . 1649. Edward Somersert Earl of Glamorgan , son and heir of Henry , Earl and Marquesse of Worcester . YORK . 1643. JAMES the second son of CHARLES , the second Monarch of Great Britaine , entituled Duke of York from the time of his birth ; but not created so till the 27. of Janu. 1643. being the 19. year of his Fathers reign . A SUPPLEMENT To the Table of Bishops . BRISTOL . 1642. 10 Tho. Westfield Archdeacon of S. Albans , on the translation of B. Skinner to the See of Oxon , succeeded him in the Church of Bristol . 1644 11. Thomas Howell Prebend of Windsor . CHICHESTER . 1641. 73. Henry King Dean of Rochester , on the translation of B. Duppa to the See of Sarum , succeeded in the Church of Chichester . COVENT . & LICHFIELD . 1644. 75. Accepted Frewen Dean of Glocester , and President of Magdalen Colledge in Oxon , on the death of B. Wright was made Bishop hereof . EXETER . 1641. 42. Ralph Brownrig , Master of Catharine Hall in Cambridge , on the translation of B. Hall to the See of Norwich , succeeded Bishop of this Church . LINCOLNE . 1641. 65. John Winnyffe , Dean of S. Pauls , in London , on the translation of B. Williams to the See of York , was made Bishop of Lincoln . NORWICH . 1641. 68. Ioseph Hall B. of Exeter , on the death of B. Montague translated to Norwich . OXFORD . 1641. 8. Robert Skinner Bishop of Bristol , on the death of B. Bancroft translated to Oxon. SALISBURLE . 1641. 72. Brian Duppa B. of Chichester , and Tutor to the Prince his Higness on the death of B. Davenant was translated to Salisburie . WORCESTER . 1641. 83. Iohn Prideaux Publick Professor of Divinity in the Vniversity of Oxon , on the death of B. Thornborough was made Bishop of Worcester . YORK . 1641. 70. Iohn Williams B. of Lincoln and Dean of Westminster after the death of Arch. B. Neile succeeded in the Metropoliticall See of York . The Names and Ranks of The Viscounts and Barons of England , with the time of the advancement of their severall Families . VISCOUNTS . VVAlter Devereux Visc . Hereford . Francis Browne Vis . Montague . Iohn Villiers Visc . Purbeck . Will. Fines Visc . Say. Edward Conwey Visc . Conwey . Baptist Noel , Visc . Camden . Will. Howard Visc . Stafford . Tho. Bellasis Visc . Falconbridges BARONS . Iohn Nevill , L. Aburgavenny . Iames Touchet , L. Audley . Charles West L. De la ware . George Berkley L. Berkley . Henry Parker L. Morley and Monteagle . Francis Lennard L. Dacres . Longville L. Gray of Rutbin . Cogniers Darcy L. Darcy and Cogniers Edward Sutton Lord Dudley . Edward Stour●on L. S●or●ton . Edward Vaulx Lord Vaulx . The. Cromwel L. Cromwel of Okeham , Earl of Argl. in Ireland . William Eure Lord Eure of Witton . Philip Wharton Lord Wharton . W. Willoughby L. Willougby of Parham . Will. Paget L. Paget of Beaudefort . Dudley North L. North of Cartline . James Bruges L. Chandois of Sadeley . William Petre L. Petre of Writtle . Dutton Gerrard L. Gerrard of Gerrards Bromley . Charles Stanhop L. Stanhop of Harrington . Thomas Arundel L. Arundell of Wardour . Christopher Rooper . L. Tenham . Ro. Grevil L. Brook of Beauchamps Court. Ed. Montague L. Montague of Boughton . William Gray L. Gray of Wark . John Roberts L. Roberts of Truro . William Craven L. Craven of Hamsted ▪ Marshall . John Lovelace L. Lovelace of Hurley . John Pawlet Lord Pawlet of Hinton-S . George . William Harvey L. Harvey of Kidbrook : Thomas Brudenell Lord Brudenell of Stoughton : William Maynard Lord Maynard of Estair●es Thomas Coventry L. Coventry of Ailesborough . Edward Howard L. Howard of Escrigg . Warwick Mohun Lord of Okehampton . John Boteler L. Boteler of Branfield . William Herbert L. Powys . Edward Herbert L. Herbert of Cherberie . Francis Cottington L. Cottington of Hanwell . John Finch Lord Finch of Forditch . Thomas Bruce E. of Elgin in Scotland , made L. Bruce of Ampthill . Francis Seymor L. Seymor of Trubridge . Arthur Capell L. Capell of Had●am . Richard Newport L. Newport of High-Arcall . John Craven L. Craven of Ruiton . Henry Percy L. Percy of Alnwick . Henry Wilmot L. Wilmot of Adderbury . Thomas Leigh L. Leigh of Stoneley . Christopher Hatton L Hatton of Kerby : Ralph Hopton L. Hopton of Stratton . Henry Jermin L. Jermin of Edmonds-Bury . Richard Vaugham E. of Carbery in Ireland made L. Vaughan of Emlin . Henry Hastings L. Loughborough . John Byron L. Byron of Rochdale . Charles Smith L. Carrington of Worton . Will. Widrington Lord Widrington of Blankney . Humble Ward L. Bromicham . John Brook L. Cobbam . John Lucas L. Lucas of Shenfield . Lew is Watson L. Rocking ham . Iohu Culpeper L. Culpeper of Thoresway . Iacob Astley L : Astley of Reading . Richard Boile Earl of Cork in Ircland made L : Clyfford of Lands-dale . Iohn Bellasis L. Bellasis of Worlaby . Iohn de Rede Ambassadour from the States Generall created Baron de Rede , but without the Priviledge of having a Voice in Parliament . Charles Gerrard L. Gerrard of Brandon . Robert Sutton L. Lexington . Robert Cholmondleigh an Irish Vilcount , made L. Cholmondleigh of Witch-Malhrook . Windsor Hickman L. Windsor of Bradenham sisters son of Thomas L. Windsor the last of that name . The Baronets of England , made by King Iames , and King Charles , with the time of their Creation . SIr Nich. Bacon Kt of Redgrave in Suffolk ▪ Sr Rich. Molineux , Kt of S●●ton Lancash ▪ St Tho. Maunsell Kt of Morgan Glamorg . George Shirley Esq of Stanion Leiceste●sh . Sr John Stradling Kt of St Donates Glamorg . Sr Francis Leake Kt of Su●ton Derbysh . Thomas Pelham Esq of Langhton Susses Sr Rich. Houghton Kt of Houghton Tower Lanc. Sr Henry How●art Kt of In●wood Norfolk . Sr George Booth Kt of Dunham massie Chesh . Sr John Payton Kt of Isleham Cambridgsh . Lionel Telmache Esq of Helningham Suffolk . Sr Jervis Clifton Kt of Cliston Notingham ▪ Sr Thomas Gerard Kt of Brin Lancash . Sr Waller Aston Kt of Tixhal Staffordsh . Philip Knevel Esq of Bucknam Norfolk . Sr John Saint-John Kt of Lediard Tergos Wilt. John Shelly Esq of Michelgrove Sussex . Sr John Savage Kt of Rock savage Chesh . Sr Fran. Barrington Kt of Barringt ▪ hall Essex . Henry Berkeley Esq of Wymondham Leicest . William Wentworth Esq of Wentworth Woodhouse Yorkesh . Sr Rich. Musgrave Kt of Hartle-castle Westm . Edward Seymour Esq of Bury castle Devonsh . Sr Moyle Finch Kt of Eastwell Kent . Sr Anthony Cope Kt of Hanwel Oxfordsh . Sr Thomas Mounson Kt of Carleton Lincoln . George Greisley Esq of Drakely Derbysh . Paul Tracy Esq of Stanway Glocestersh . Sr John Wentworth Kt of Co●●eild Esser . Sr Henry Bellassis Kt of Newborough Yorkesh William Constable Esq of Flamborough York . Sr Thomas Leigh Kt of Stoneleigh Warwick . Sr Edward Noell Kt of Brook Rutlandsh . Sr Robert Cotton Kt of Connington Hunting . Robert Cholmondleigh Esq of Cholmondleigh Chesh . John Moleneux Esq of Tevershalt Notting . Sr Prancis Wortley Kt of Wortley Yorksh . Sr George Savile Kt of Thornehill Yorksh . William . Kniveton Esq of Mircaston Derby . Sr Philip Woodhouse Kt of Wilberly hall Norf. Sr William Pope Kt of Wilcott Oxfordsh . Sr James Harrington Kt of Ridlington Rutl. Sr Henry Savile Kt of Methely Yorksh . Henry Willoughby Esq of Risley Derbysh . Lew is Tresha● Esq of Rushton Northam . Thomas Brudenel Esq of Deine Northam . Sr George Saint-Paul Kt of Snarsford Lincol. Sr Philip Tirwhit Kt of Stainefield Lincoln . Sr Roger Dallison Kt of Loughton Lincoln . Sr Edward Carre Kt of Sleford Lincoln . Sr Edward Hussey Kt of Hennington Lincoln . Le Sirange Mordant Esq of Massingham parva Norfolk . Thomas Eendish Esq of Steeple Bamsteed Ess . Sr John Winne Kt of Gwidder Carnarv . Sr Will Throgmorton Kt of Tortworth Gloc. Sr Richard Worsley Kt of Appledorecombe Ham. Richard Fleetwood Esq of Cakewish Staff. Thomas Spencer Esq of Yarington Oxford . Sr John Tufton Kt of Hothfield Kent . Sr Samuel Peyton Kt of Knowlton Kent . Sr Charles Morison Kt of Cashiobury Hertf. Sr Henry Baker Kt of Sissinghinst Kent . Roger Appleton Esq of south ▪ Bamsteet Essex . Sr William Sedley Kt of Ailsford Kent . Sr William Twisden Kt of East Peckham Kent . Sr Edward Hales Kt of Woodchurch Kent . William Monyns Esq of Walwarsher Kent . Thomas Mildmay Esq of Mulsham Essex . Sr Will. Maynard Kt of Easton parva Essex . Henry Lee Esq of Quarrendon Bucking . Sr John Portman Kt of Orchard Somerset Sr Nicholas Sanderson Kt of Saxby Lincoln . Sr Miles Sands Kt of Wimbleton in the Isle of Ely William Gostwick Esq of Willington Bedford . Thomas Puckering Esq of Weston Hertford . Sr William Wray Kt of Glentworth Lincoln . Sr William Ailoffe Kt of Braxted-magna Essex . Sr Marmaduke VVivell Kt of Cunstable . Burton York . Iohn P. shan . Esq of Ho●s●●y St●fford ▪ Franc●● Engl●field Esq o● Wotton Basse● Wilt● S● Thomas Ridgeway K● of To●re Devon. William Essex Esq of Bewcot B●rks . Sr Edward Go●g●s Kt of Langford Wilts . Edward Dev●reux Esq of Castle Bramwi●ch Warwick Regnald Mo 〈…〉 Esq of B 〈…〉 kennock Co●nw . St Harb●●●le Gr●mston Kt of Bradfield Essex . St Thomas Ho●● Kt of Aston Warwick . Sr Robert Napar alias Sandy Kt of Lewtonhow Bedfold . Paul Bayning Esq of B●ntly parva Essex . S● Thomas Temple Kt of Stow Bucking . Thomas Peneyston Esq of Leigh Sussex Thomas Blackston Esq of Blackston Durham . Sr Robert Dormer K● of Wing Buckingham . Sr Rowland Eger●on Kt of Egerton Chesh . Roger Towneshend Esq of Ra●●am Norfolk . Simon Clarke Esq of Salford Warwick . Edward Fitton Esq of Houseworth Chester . Sr Richard Lucy Kt of Broxborne Hertford . Sr Ma●●hew Boynton Kt of Barm●lone York . Thomas Littleton Esq of Frankely Worcest . Sr Francis Leigh Kt of Newneham Warwick . Thomas Burdet Esq of Bramcot Warwick . George Morton Esq of St Andrewes Milborne Dorser . Sr William Hervey K● . Thomas Mackworth Esq of Normanton Rutl. William G●●y Esq of Chillingham Northum . William ●●lleirs Esq of Brookesby Leicester . Sr Iames Ley of Westbury Wilts . William H●●ks Esq of Beve●ston Gloucest . Sr Thomas Beaumont Kt of Col●or●on Leicest . Heney Sal 〈◊〉 bury Esq of Leweny Denbigh Erasmus D●iden Esq of Canons Ash by North. William Armine Esq of Olgodby Lincoln . St William Bamburgh Kt of H●wson York . Edward H●r●op Esq of F●eat●by Leicest . I 〈…〉 M 〈…〉 ll Esq of Commons-Court S●●●ex . Fran●●s Ra 〈…〉 e Esq o● Dar●●●water C●●●● . Sr David Foulis Kt of Ingleby York . Thom●● Philips Esq of Barington Somerset . Sr Claudius Foster Kt of Bambrough Castle Northumb. Anthony Chester Esq of Chichely Bucking . Sr Samuel Trion Kt of Layre-Marney Essex . Adam Newton Esq of Charleton Kent Sr Iohn B●●elar Kt of Ha●field Woodball Hert. Gilbert Gerard Esq of Harrow on the Hill Middlesex . Humphrey Lee Esq of Langley Salop. Richard Ber 〈…〉 y of Parkehall Norfolk . 〈…〉 Humphrey Foster Esq of Alderm 〈…〉 on Berks. Thomas Biggs Esq of Lenchwick Worcest . Henry Bellingham Esq of Helsington West● . William Yel●●●ton Esq of Rougham Nor● . Iohn Scudamore Esq of Homelacy Heref. Iune . Iohn Packington Esq of Alesbury Bucking Ralph Aston Esq of Lever Lancast . Sr Baptist Hicks Kt of Camden Glocest . Sr Thomas Roberts Kt of Glassenbury Kent . Iohn Hanmer Esq of Hanmer Flint . Edward Osborn● Esq of Keeton York . Henry Felton Esq of Playford Suffolk . William Chaloner Esq of Glisborough York . Edward Fryer Esq of Water-Eaton Oxford . Sr Thomas B●shop Kt of Parham Sussex . Sr Francis Vincent Kt of Stockdaw-Barton . Surrey Henry Cl●r● Esq of Orin●●by Norfolk . Sr Benjamine T 〈…〉 no K● of Tichhurno Southamp . Sr Richard Wilbraham Kt of Woodhey Chesh . Sr Thomas Delves Kt of DuddingtonChester . Sr Lewis Wa●son Kt of Rockingham Castle Northamp● . Sr Thomas Palmer Kt of Wingham Kent . Sr Richard Roberts Kt of Tr●wro Cornwall . Iohn Rivers Esq of Chafford Kent . Henry I●rn●gan ▪ Esq of Coss●y . Norfolk . Thomas Da●nell Esq of H●yling LincoIn . Sr Isaac Sid●●y Kt of Great Chartre Kent . Robert Browne Esq of Walcot Northam . Iohn H●wet Esq of Headley Hall York . Sr Nicholas H●de Kt of Alb●●ry Hertford . Iohn Phillips Esq of Picton Pembroke . Sr Iohn Stepn●y Kt of Prendergust Pembroke ▪ Baldwin Wake Esq of Clevedon S●merset . William Mas●●am Esq of High-Laver Essex . Io●n Col●brond Esq of B●tham Sussex . Sr Iohn Hotham K● of Scarborough Yo●k . Francis Mansell Esq of Mudlescomb C●rmar . Edward Powell Esq of Penk●lly Hereford Sr Iohn G●●rard Kt of Lamer Her●ford . Sr Richard Grosvenor Kt of Eaton Chesh . Sr Henry M●dy Kt of Gar●sdon Wil●s . I●●● Baker Esq of Grimston Hall Suffolk . Sr William Button Kt of Alcon Wilts . Iohn Gage Esq of Farle Sassex . William Goring Esq of Burton Sassex . M●y ▪ 〈…〉 . Peter Co 〈…〉 n Esq of A●d●ngton Wo●cest . Sr Rich●rd Norton Kt of R●th●● s 〈…〉 S 〈…〉 ham . Sr Iohn Leventhorp Kt of Shingle hall H●rtf . Capel Bedell Esq of Hamerton Hunting . Iohn Darell Esq of Westwoodhey Berks. William Williams Esq of Veynol Carnarv . St Francis Ashbey Kt of Hartfield Middlesex ▪ Sr Anthony Ashley Kt of St Giles Wimborne Dorse● . Iuly 〈◊〉 Iohn Cooper Esq of Rocbourne Southam . Edmund Prideaux Esq of Netherton Devon. Sr Thomas Heselrigge Kt of Nosely Leic●st . 〈◊〉 Sr Thomas B●rton Kt of Stockerston Leicest . Francis Foliambe Esq of VValton De●by . Edward Ya●e Esq of Buckland Berks. George Chudleigh Esq of Ashton Devon. Aug. Francis Drake Esq of Bu●kland Devon. 〈◊〉 VVilliam M●redith Esq of Stansty Denbigh . 〈◊〉 Hugh Middleton Esq of Rut●in Denbigh . Octob. Gifford Thornechurst Esq of Agne Court Kent . Novem. Percy Herbert of Redcastle M●ntgom ▪ Sr Robert Fisher Kt of Packington Warwick ▪ Hardolph VVastneyes of Henden Nortingh ▪ Sr Henry Skipwith Kt of Prestwould Leicest ▪ Thomas Harris Esq of Boreatton Salop ▪ Nicholas Tempest Esq of Stella Durham ▪ Francis Cottington Esq . Thomas Harris of Tong Castle Salop ▪ Edward Barkham Esq of Southacre Norfolk . Iohn Corbet Esq of Prowston Norfolk . Sr Thomas Playte●s Kt of Sotterley Suffolk . SIr Iohn Ash field Kt of Nether-ball Suffolk Henry Harper Esq of Calke D 〈…〉 by . Edward Seabright Esq of Befford Worcest . Iohn Beaumont Esq of Gracedieu Leicest . Sir Ed. D●●ring Kt of S●renden D●ering Kent . George Kempe Esq of Pentlon Essex . VVilliam Br●reton Esq of Hanford Chess● . Patricke Carwen Esq of VV●rkington Cumb. VVilliam Russell Esq of VVitley Worcest . Iohn Spencer Esq of Offley Her●f . Sr Giles Escourt Kt of Newton Walts . Thomas Aylesbury Esq one of the Masters of the Requests . Thomas Style Esq of VVateringbury Kent . Frederick Cornwallis Esq — Suffolk . Drue Drury Esq — Norfolk . VVilliam Skevington — Stafford . Sr Robert Crane Kt of Chil●on . Saffolk . May 〈◊〉 Anthony VVing field Esq of Goodwins Su●t . VVilliam Culpepper Esq of Preston hall Kent ▪ Giles Bridges Esq of VVil●o● Hertford . Iohn Kirle Esq of Much-marele Hereford . Sr Humphrey Stiles Kt of Beckham Kent . Henry Moore Esq of Falley Berks. Thomas Heale Esq of Fleet Devon. Iohn Carleton Esq of HolcumOxford . Thomas Maples Esq of S●ow Hunting . Sr Iohn Isham Kt of Lamport Northam . Henry Bagot Esq of Blithfield Stafford . Lewis Pollard Esq of Kings Nimph Devon. Francis Mannock Esq of Giffards hall Suffolk Henry Griffith Esq of Agnes Burton York Lodowick Dyer Esq of Staughton Hunting . St Hugh Stowkley Kt of Hinton Southam . Edward Stanly Esq of Biggarstoffe Lancast . Edward Littleton Esq of Pileton hall Stafford Ambrose Browne Esq of Betswirth Castle Sur. Sackvile Crow Esq of Lanherme Carma . Michael Lives●y Esq of East-Church Kent . Simon Benne● Esq of Benhampton Bucking . Sr Thomas Fisher Kt of Giles Parish Middle . Thomas Bayer Esq of L●gthorne Saffex . Bulls Bacon Esq of Mildenhall Suffolk . Iohn Corbet Esq of Stoke Salop. St. Edward Tirrell Kt of Thoraeton Bucking . Basil Dixwel Esq of Terlingham Kent . St Richard Young Kt of the Privy Chamber . VVilliam Pennyman Esq of Maske York . VVilliam Stonehouse Esq of Radley Berks. S● Thomas Fowler Kt of Islington Middles . Sr Iohn Fenwick Kt of Fenwick Northum . Sr VVilliam VVray Kt of Trebitch Cornw ▪ Iohn Trelawny Esq of Trelawncy Cornw. Iohn Conyers Gent. of Norden Durham . Iohn Bowles Esq of Scampton Lincoln . Thomas Afton Esq of Aston Chester . Kenelme Ienour Esq of Much Dunmore Essex Sr Iohn Price Kt of Newtowne Montgom . Sr Richard Beaumont Kt of VVhitley York . VVilliam VViseman Esq of Cansield hall E●s . Thomas Nightingale Esq of Newport Pond Ess . Iohn Iaqi●ex Esq Gent. Pensioner Middles . Robert Dillingham Esq of the Isle ●f VVight Southampton . Francis Pile Esq of Compton Berks. John Pole Esq of S●ur Devon. William Lewis Esq of Langors Brecknock . William Culpepper Esq of Wakeburst Sussex . Peter Van-loor Esq of Tyle●●st Berks. St John Lawrence of Juer Bucking . Ant●ony Slingesby Esq of Sorevin York . Thomas Vavasor Esq of Haslewood York . Robert Wolseley Esq of Wolseley Stafford . Rice Rud Esq of Aberglainey Carmarth . Richard Wiseman Esq of Thundersley Essex . Henry Ferrers Esq of Skillingthorpe Lincoln . John Anderson Esq of St Ives Hunting . Sr William Russell Kt of Chippenham Cambr. Richard Everard Esq of Much Waltham Essex . Thomas Powell Esq of Barkenhead Chester . William Luckin Esq of Waltham Essex . Richard Graham Esq of Eske Cumber . George Twisleton Esq of Barly York . William Acton Esq of London Nich. le Strange Esq of Hunstanton Norf. John Holland Esq of Quidenham Norf. Edward Aleyn Esq of Hatfield Essex . Richard Earle Esq of Craglethorp Lincoln . Robert Ducy Alderman of London . Sr Richard Greenvile Kt and Coll. Edward Moseley Esq of Rowle●●on Staff. Martin Lumley Esq of Great Bradfield Essex . Ian. 〈◊〉 . William Datston Esq of Datston Cumber . Henry Fletcher Esq of Hatton Cumber . Nich. Cole Esq of B 〈…〉 peth Durham . Edmund Pye Esq of Leckhamsted Bucking . Simon Every Esq of Eggington Darby . Will. Langley Esq of Higham Golein Bedford Will. Paston Esq of Oxonead Norf. John Palgrave Esq of Norwood Barningham Norf. Gerard Napper Esq of Middlemerhall Dorset Thomas Whitmore Esq of Apley Salop. James Stonehouse Esq of Amerdanhall Essex . John Maney Esq of Linton Kent . Sr Tho. Cave jun Kt of Stansord Northam . Sr Christopher Yelverton Kt of Easton Manduyc Norf. William Botelar Esq of Teston Kent . Sr Tho Hatton Kt of Long Stanton Cambr. Thomas Abdy Esq of Felxhall Essex . Tho. Bampfield Esq of Poltmore Devon. Sr John Cotton Kt of Landwade Cambr. Sr Symonds D'Ewes Kt of Stowhall Saffolk . Henry Frederick Thynne Esq of Caurse Castle Salop. John Burgoyne Esq of Sutton Bedford . John Northcote Esq of Haine Devon. Sr Will. Drake Kt of Sberdelowes Bucking . Tho. Rous Esq of Rouslench Worcest . Radus Hare Esq of Stow Bardolfe Norfolk . Sr John Norwith Kt of Brampton Northam . John Brownlow Esq of Belton Lincoln . Will. Brownlow Esq of Humby Lincoln . John Sidenham Esq of Brimpton . Somerset . Henry Prat Esq of Col. sh●ll Berks. Francis Nichols Esq of Hardwick Northam . Sr Will. Strickland Kt of Baynton York Sr Tho Woolrich Kt of Dudmaston Salop. Aug. 〈◊〉 Tho. Mawleverer Esq of Allerton Mawleverer York . Will. Boughton Esq of Lawford Warwick . John Chichester Esq of Raleigh Devon. Norton Knatchbull Esq of Mershamhuch Kent Hugh Windham Esq of Pilsd●● Court Dorset . Richard Carew Esq of Antony Cornwall . Aug. Will. Castleton Esq of St Edmunds Bury Suff. Richard Price Esq of Gogerthan . Cardigan . Hugh Cholmely Esq of Whitby York . Will. Spring Esq of Pakenham Suffolk . Tho. Trever Esq of Endfield Middlesex . Sr Iohn Curson of Kedliston . Darby . Hugh Owen Esq of Or●lton Pembroke . Merton Brigs Esq of Haughton Salop. Henry Heyman Esq of Somerfield Kent . Tho. Sa●dford Esq of Howgil Castle West me . Sr Francis Rhodes Kt of Balbrough Darby Rich Sprignell Esq of Coppenthorpe York Sr Iohn Pots Kt of Mannington Norfolk Sr Iohn Goodericke Kt of Ribston York . Robert Bindlosse Esq of Berwick . Lancast . VVill Walter Esq of Sarseden Oxford . Tho. Lawley Esq of Sr Powell Salop Will. Farmer Esq of Eston-Neston Northam . Sept. Iohn Davye Esq of Creedy Devon. Tho. Pettus Esq of Rackheath Norfolk . Will. Andrew Esq of Denton Northam . Decem 〈…〉 Iohn Meux Esq of the Isle of VVight South . Sr Richard Gurnty Lord Maior of London . Tho. VVillis Esq of Fenditton Cambr. Francis Armitage Esq of Kirklees York . Rich. Halford Esq of VVistow Leicest . Sr Humphrey Tufton Kt of Mote Kent . Edward Coke Esq of Langford Darby . The late Act of Parliament doth exempt these following . Isaac Astley Esq of Melton Constable Norf. David Cunningham Scotch Bar. of London . Sr Iohn Rayney Scot. Bar. of VVrotham Kent . Revet Eldrid Esq of Saxham Magna Suffolk Iohn Gell Esq of Hopton Darby . Sr Vincent Corbet Kt of Morton Corbet Salop. Sr Iohn Wray Kt of VVoodsome York Tho. Trallop Esq of Casewick Lincoln . Edw. Thomas Esq of Michaels Town Glam . St Will. Cowper Sc. Bar. of Raling Court Kent . Denner Strut Esq of Little VVotley Essex . VVill Saint Quintin Esq of Harpan York . Sr Robert Kempe Kt of Gissing Norf. Iohn Reade Esq of B●ocket Hall Hartf . Iames Enyon Esq of Flower Northam . Edw. VVilliams Esq of Marlehul Dorset . Iohn VVilliams Esq of Minster Court Kent . Sr George VVinter Kt of Huddington Worc. Iohn Burlace Esq of Bockmer Bucking . Henry Knallys Esq of Groveplace Southam . Iohn Hamilton of the City of London . Edward Morgan Esq of Lanternam Munmoth Nicholas Kemeys Esq of Kevenmably Glamor . Trever VVilliams Esq of Llangibbye Munm . Poynings Moore Esq of Loseley Surrey . Christopher Dawney Esq of Cowick York . Iohn Reresby Esq of Tri●ergh York . VVill Ingleby Esq of Ripley York . Tho. Hampson Esq of Toplow Bucking . Tho Williamson Esq of East Mackham Nottin . Will Denny Esq of Gillingham Norfolk . Richard Hardres Esq of Hardres Kent . Christopher Lowther Esq Yorksh . Sr Thomas Alston Kt Westmerl . Edward Corbet of Leyton . Edward Payler Esq York●sh . Sr George Middleton Kt Lancash . Matthew Walkenburgh Esq Yorksh . Philip Constable Esq Yorksh . Sr VVill. VVidrington Kt Northumb. Sr Edw. VVidrington Kt. Northumb. Robert Markham Esq Lincoln . S● Stephen Leonard Kt of West Wickham Kent . Philip Hungat Esq York . Ralph Blackston Esq Durham . S● VVill. Therold Kt Lincoln . VValter Rudstone Esq Yorksh . Robert Throgmorton Esq Warwick . VVill. Halton Esq Essex . VValter Wrottesley Esq Staffordsh . Edward Golding Esq Notting . VVill. Smith Esq Cornw. Henry Hen Esq Berks. Brocket Spencer Esq Hartford . VValter Blunt Esq Worcest . Adam Littleton Esq Salop. Sr Tho. Haggerston of HaggerstonNorthum . Tho. Liddell Esq Duresme Richard Lawdy Esq Exon . Thomas Chamberlain Esq Oxfordsh . Henry Hunlock Esq Darby . Thomas Bad Esq South imp . Richard Crane Esq Norfolk . Samuel Danvers Esq Northāmp . Sr Henry Iones Kt Carmarthen . VVilliam Vauasor Esq Sr Edward VValgrave KtKent . Iohn Pare Esq Leicest . VVilloughby Hickman Esq Lincoln . Sr George Bateler KtHertford . Edward Acton Esq Salop . Sr Francis Hawley KtSomerset . Iohn Preston Esq Lincash . Thomas Prestwick Esq Lancash . Robert Therold Esq Lincoln . Gervase Lucas Esq Lancash . Henry Bard Esq Middlesex . Henry VVilliams Esq Brecknock . VVilliam Vancolster Esq VVilliam de Boreel . George Carter Esq Thomas VVindebanke Esq Wilts . Benjamin VVright Esq Suffolk . Richard VVill is Esq Cambr . Sr Evan Lloyd Kt of YaleDenbigh . A Catalogue of the Knights made by King Charles , with the time of their making . SIr Morr is Abbot Merchant . London . Sr Abraham VVilliams . Sr Iames Lasly . Sr Paul Harris of Boreatton . Sr Iohn Meller of Little Breda Dorset . Sr Charles Glenham . Sr Edward Clarke of Reading Berks. Sr Edward Griffin of Braybrooke Castle North. Sr Iohn Halts . Sr VValter Long of VVarall Wilts . Sr Truston Smith of VValpotSuffolk . Sr Christopher Man of Canterbury Kent . Sr Iohn Finch of Canterbury . Kent . Sr Robert Hony-wood of PetKent . Sr Thomas Power of Newcastle . Sr Hugh Stukeley Hamp . Sr Roger Martin of Long Milsord . Suffolk . Sr VVilliam Gourdon Scotus . Sr Martin Lister . Sr Morris Drummon Scotus . Sr Nich. Row of Mousewelhill . Middle . Sr Rich Hutton of Gouldesborow . Sr Morgan Randell of Oxonford Surry . Sr Thomas Pope of VVioxton Oxon. Sr Thomas Morton of Eastnon Kent . Sr Thomas Yorke of Brackley Northamp . Sr Thomas Baker Sr Henry Killegrew Lincoln . Sr VVilliam Sanderson Sr Thomas Brodery of Arnbury Lincoln . Sr VVilliam Morley . Sr Iohn Ashburnham of Bromham Suffolk . Sr Edward Barkley de Bruton Sommet . Sr Richard Reynell of East Ognel Devon. Sr Thomas Reynell his Brother Devon. Sr Iohn Young Sr Iohn Chichester Devon. Sr Iohn Carew Devon. Sr Iames Bagge of Plimouth Devon. Sr Thomas Thornix Kent . Sr William Courtney Devon. Sr Henry Sprey Devon. Sr Iames Scot. Sr Sheffield Chapham . Sr Iohn Gibson . Sr Henry VVilloughby . Sr Thomas Love. Sr Michael Geare Sr Iohn VVatts . Sr Iohn Chidley Capt. Devon. Sr Simon Leech . Devon. Sr Francis Dodington Somerset . Sr Thomas Pawlet Somerset . Sr Tho. Jay of Neiheihaven W●lts . Sr Robert Cock. Sr Richard Shelden . Sr Edw Bathurst of Horton Kirby Kent . Sr Edw Bishop of Parham Suffolk Sr Edw. Spencer of Batton Middle . Sr Peter Killigrew . Sr Dodmore Cotton . Sr William Killig . ew . Sr Hugh Cholmondley . Sr John Loder of Loder Westmer . Sr John Gore late Lord Maior of London . Sr Allen Cotton then Lord Maior of London . Sr Francis Harvy of Cotten end North. Sr John Underhill . Sr Will. Gardener of Peckham Surrey . Sr George Cenit . Sr Thomas Huncks . Sr Thomas Richardson of Throp-Market Norf. Sr Walter Leech of Cadley Devon Sr Simonds D' Ewes of Scowlangtoft Suffolk Sr Miles Sands of VVilberton Cambr. Sr Richard Minshall Chesh . Sr Robert Sands . Sr Peter VVich . Sr Nicholas Hide . Sr Francis Clarke of Hitcham Bucking . S● George Kemp of Pentlow Essex . Sr VVilliam Craven London . Sr VVilliam Carre . Sr VVilliam Poshall . Sr VVilliam Alexander . St Christopher Trentham Staff. S● Edward Seabright Wigor . Sr Robert Barkely of Pe●sley Wigor . Sr Thomas Kelleyon Scotur . Sr Toby Cage . Sr John Hanbery North. Sr VVilliam B●iers Bedford . Sr Cutbert Hacket Sr Martin Snowkers of Flanders . S● Iohn Savill of Lupsil York ▪ Sr Richard Greenvile . Sr Thomas Fryer . Sr VVilliam Cunningham . Sr Iohn Tolcarne . Sr Simon Harcourt . Sr Robert Honywood . Sr Drew Dean● of Dinshall Essex . Sr George Russell of Richmonds Bedf. Sr Henry A●trey of VVoodend . Sr Lawrence VVashington . Sr Edward Clarke of Arlington Berks. S● Cope Doyley of Greenland Bucking . These six following were Knighted by the King of Sweden . Sr Peter Young. Sr Henry St George . Richmond Herald . Sr Patrick Rutbin a Coll. Scotus . Sr Alexander Lesley a Coll. Scotus . Sr Thomas Muschamps a Coll. North. Sr Iohn Heybron Stotur . Sr Henry Morison of Tuly Parke Leicest . Sr VVilliam Blake of Kensington Middle . Sr Garret Rainsford Sr VVilliam Denny of Norwich Norfolk ▪ Sr Iohn Tufton . Sr George Vernon of Hassington . Sr Francis Radcliffe of Newcastle Northumb. Sr Iohn Terrill Essex . Sr Phillip Oldfield of Somerford Chesh . Sr Marmaduke Langdale of Pighall York . Sr VVhite Beconshaw of Moyls-Court Hamp . Sr Ba 〈…〉 Dixwell of Folson Kent . Sr Timothy Featherston North. Sr Thomas Lucas of Colchester Essex . Sr Iohn Sackvill of Sudlescomb Sussex . Sr Thomas Lewis of Penmalk Glamor . Sr Charles Crofts of Bardwell . Suffolk . Sr Edw. Richard of Southampton Hamp . Sr Iohn Lyster York . Sr Hugh Bethell of Alne York . Sr Robert Morton of Easture Kent . Sr Thomas Hope Scotus . Sr Hugh Hamersley Lord Maior of London . Sr Thomas Gerard of Asbydelazouch Leicest . Sr Iohn Trelawney of Trelawney Cornw. Sr VValter Langdon of Kaverell Corn. Sr John Fotberby of Canterbury Kent . Sr Iohn Rowth of Romley Darby . Sr VVilliam Hopkins of Coventry Warwick . Sr Iohn Miles of Devington Kent . Captaines : Sr Thomas Ismond Sr Iohn Crosby Sr Iohn Langworth 〈◊〉 Sr Iohn Harvy . Sr Iohn Leigh of Newport Southam ▪ Sr Thomas Culpepper Sussex . Sr George VVilmot of Charleton Berks. Sr Edward Dodsworth of Trowtsdaile Ebor. Sr VVill. Salter of Ritchking Bucking . Sr Cornelius Faire-Madow of Fulham Middl. Sr Iervis N●vill of Haddington Lincoln . Sr VVill ▪ Catchmay of Bixweere Gloucest . Sr VVill. Ashton of Tingery Bedfordsh . Sr VVill. Quadring of Iraby Lincoln . Sr George Grimes of Peckam Surrey Sr James Harrington of Merton Oxon. Sr Iohn Bracking of Eaton Bedf. Sr Cornelius Vermuden of Hadfield Ebor. Sr Iohn Heydon of Backenstrop Norf. Sr Richard Grimes . Sr Richard Manley : Sr VVill. Rowe of Higham Hill Essex . Sr Lewes Morgan . Sr Iervis Elwis Notting . Sr VVill. Dalton of the City of Yorke Sr Richard Deane Lord Maior of London . Sr VVill. Acton Sheriffe . Sr VVill. Calley of Burdrop W●lt● . Sr Balthazar Gerbeir . Sr Cranmer Harris of Crixsey Essex . Sr Iohn Lee of Lawshall Saffolk . Sr Hardres VValler Kent . Sr Anthony Mansell of ●retton Gloucest . Sr Popham Southcot . Sr Henry Cason of Poyton Sussex . Sr Iohn Yate of Buckland Berks. Sr Nathaniel Brent Doctor at Law. Sr VVill. Spencer of Yarnton Oxford . Sr Iohn Stonehouse of Rudley Berks. Sr Thomas VVortley . Sr Thomas VVarner . Sr Christopher Abdy of Belgat Kent . Sr Leonard Feerby of Pauls Cray Kent . Sr Edmund Mounford of Fel●wall Norf. Sr Thomas Gawdy of Gawdy Hall Sr Ferdinando Cary. Sr Thomas Thornborough of Elmly Wigon . Sr Nicholas Byron . Sr Edmund Scot of Lambeth Surrey . Sr Peter Pawle Rubens . Sr Ralph Blackstone of Blackston Ebor. Sr Dudley Carleton of Holcombe Oxon. Sr George Herbert of Dorrow Hiber . Sr Lawrence De la Chamber of Rodmill . Sr George VVentworth of VValley Ebor. Sr Iohn Morley of Chichester Sussex . Sr Oliver Nicholes of Manningford Bruse . Sr Iames Cambell Lord Maior of London . Sr Philip Stapleton of VValrer Ebor. Sr VVilliam Fairefax Ebor. Sr Robert Needham . Sr Philip Langdon of Handleby Lincoln . Sr Edw. Masters of East Handon Kent . Sr Thomas Gower of Sillingham . Sr VVilliam Strickland of Hildingley Ebor. Sr Iervis Scroope of Ackrinton . Lincoln . Sr Edward Floid of Berthloid Montgom . Sr VValter Pye. Sr Iames Steward Duke of Lenox . Sr Stephen Scot of Haies Kent . Sr Iohn Harper of Swarson Daiby . Sr Iames Montgomery Scotus . Sr Richard Pigot of Dothersoll Bucking . Sr Thomas Bows of Much Bromsey Hall Ess . Sr Iohn Thorowgood Sr Henry Dawfrey of More . Sr Henry Atkins London . Sr Iames Hamilton M. Hamilton . Sr Thomas Carleton of Carleton Cumb. Sr Fredricke Cornwallis of Bromehall . Sr VValter Alexander of St Iames Middle . Sr Iohn Sucklin of VVitham Middle . Sr Thomas Swan of Southfleet Kent . Sr Arthur Robinson of Deighton Ebor. Sr Martin Barnham of Hellingborne : Sr Iames VVeston of Castle Campe Cant. Sr Robert Ducy Lord Maior of London Sr Iohn Banks of Graies Inne Middle . Sr Robert Yelverton . Sr VVilliam Polcy of Bicksteed . Sr Iohn Caswell , Sr Edward Powell . Sr Thomas VVindham of Renssord Somer . The Ventian Embassador . Sr VVilliam VViddrington of VViddrington . Sr George Devereux of Sheldon . Sr Iohn Somerset of Plantley Court. Sr Richard Prince of Salop. Sr George VVhitmore Lord Maior of London . Sr George Fleetwood Collonel . Sr George Carnegay Scotus . Sr Francis Windebanke Sr Francis Rainsford . Sr James Carmichadell . Sr George Cary of Bradford . Sr Anthony Vandike . Sr John Hall. Sr Robert Paine of Barton Stacy . South . Sr Nicholas Slanneing Devon. Sr John Melton Yorke . Sr Francis Crawley of Luton Bedf. Sr Thomas Honywood of Markhall Essex . Sr Edward Alsord of Offonington Sussex . Sr William Brockman of Bitchborow . Sr Arnold Wareing of Sivingson Buck. Sr John Coult of Rickemersworth Hertf. Sr Henry Knowlis . Sr John Ramsay . Sr Alexander Hall of Allemerhall . Sr Nicholas Rainton Lord Maior of London . Sr John Wolstcnholme of London . 〈◊〉 . Sr Abraham Daws of Putney . Sr Iohn Iacob of London . Sr George Douglas Scotus . Sr William Allenson Maior of Yorke . Sr William Belt Recorder of Yorke . Sr Paul Neale . Sr Lionel Maddison Northumb. Sr William Boswell . Sr William Robinson . Sr Edmund Boweur of Camberwell . Sr Pelham Cary. Sr Iohn Coke . Sr Patrick Abereromy . Sr Thomas Hopton . Sr Thomas Alston . Sr VVilliam Lyre . Sr Iames Achmoti . Sr Francis Siddenham . Sr Robert Wood. Sr Mathew Howland . Sr George Theobals . Sr Iohn Saltinston . Sr George Windham . Sr David Kirke . Sr Thomas Tresse . Sr John Thoroughgood . Sr Nicholas Servin . Sr John Temple . Sr Roger Higgs . Sr Thomas Dakers . Sr VVilliam Riddall Northum . Sr Richard Howbart . Sr Selwin Parker . Sr Thomas Coghill Oxon. Sr Francis Norris Oxon. Sr Tho. Dayrell of Eillington Dayrel Buck. Sr Iohn Pennington . Sr VVilliam le Neve Nors . Sr Thomas Moulson Lord Maior of London . Sr Anthony Cage of Stow Camb. Sr Edward Hartop of Euckminster Leicest . Sr Iohn Brampston Essex . These 4 came over with the Swedish Embassador . Sr Iacob Skitt●e . Sr Iohn Crus . Sr Gustavus Banir . Sr Gabriel Oxensterne . Sr Iohn Skittee . Sr Robert Earkehurst Lord Maior of London . Sr Edw. Littleton . These six Knighted by the Earle of Lindsey on Shipboord . Sr Iohn Lord Pawl●t . Sr Iohn Pawlet his Son. Sr Iames Douglas . Sr Iohn Digby . Sr Charles Howard . Sr Elias Hicks . Sr Ralph VVhitfield of Tenterden Kent . Sr Thomas Corbet of Sprouston Norf. Sr Richard VVeston Decem. Sr Iohn Dalton of VVest-VVretting Camb. Sr Richard Vivian of Treloteren Cornw. Sr Henry Calthrop of Cockthrop Norf. Sr VVilliam Shelley of Michelgrove Sus . Sr Charles Herbert of Moore Hertf. Sr Symon Baskervile of London . Sr Mathew Lister of London . Sr Thomas Ingram of Yorke . Sr Christopher Clethero Lord Maior of London . Sr William Howard of B●●vor York . Sr Edw Bromfield Lord Maior of London . Sr Charles Mordant of Massinghall Norf. Sr Job Harvy of London . Sr Arthur Hopton of Witham Somer . Sr Rowland Wandesford of Haddegly York . Sr Thomas Milward of Eaton Dovedale Der. Sr John Barrington of Barrington Essex . Sr John Lucas neare Colchester Essex . Sr Richard Fe● Lord Maior of London . Sr Thomas Bedding field of Halborne Middle . Sr Balihazar Garbeire . Sr Edmund Williams of London . Sr Arthur Jenny of Know●shall Suff ▪ Sr Richard Allen. Sr Gillam Merricke . April 〈◊〉 . Sr Roger James of Yorke Lord Ma●or . Sr Thomas Widdrington Recorder . Sr Alexander Davison of Blackston Du 〈…〉 Sr Thomas 〈…〉 ddel of 〈◊〉 Sr John Hele of 〈◊〉 Devon. Sr 〈◊〉 Thinne . Sr 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of Sto● Co 〈…〉 Sr Edward Savage of west minster ▪ Sr William Darcy of Witton Castle Durh Sr Charles 〈◊〉 of Crossehall Su●● Sr William Selby of Twisle North. Sr Vivian M●llencux . Sr Iohn Pawlet . Sr Humphrey Sidenham . Sr Peregrine Bertu . Sr Charles Howard Sr Richard Bellars . Sr Iohn Morley . Sr William Gun. Sr Charles Lucas . Sr Michael Earnly . Sr Douglas . Sr Iohn Barkley . Sr VVilliam Barkley . Sr Thomas Not. Sr Iervis Eyr of Rampton Notting . Sr William Craven of Com Abbey Warwic . Sr Edmund Reve of Stratten Norf. Sr Thomas Daws of Putney Surrey . Sr Nicholas Cri●● of London . Sr Iohn Nuls of London . Sr Robert Foster of Fosters Egham . Sr Henry Blunt. Sr Thomas Fotherley . Sr George Sayer of Bewsers Hall Essex . Sr Nathaniel Finch of Ash Kent . Sr Henry Garraway Lord Maior of London . Sr Henry Vane . Sr Thomas Ashton of Weedhill . Sr George Vane . Sr Iohn Harrison● Sr He●neage Proby . Sr Martin Lumley Kt and Bar. Sr Iohn Gore . Sr Thomas Fairfax . Sr Edward Herbers . Sr Robert Wildgoose . Sr Simon Fanshaw . Sr Nicholas Coat-Cole Kit and Bar. Sr Arthur Ashton . Sr Iohn Witterong . Sr Thomas Meautis is of Gorambury Her●● . Sr Wilford Lawdson . Sr Ralph Sr Ralph Varney . Sr Nicholas Miller . Sr Richard Howell . Sr William Palmer . Sr William Poele . Sr Edmund Pye. Sr Peter Rickard . Sr Samuel Owefield . Sr Iohn●key . Sr William Butler . Sr Nicholas Kemish . Sr Robert Therold . Sr Simon Every . Sr Iohn Wortley . Sr George Winter . Sr Robert Fielding of Barnacle Warw. Sr Peter Temple . Sr Harbert Whitfield . Sr Thomas Dike . Sr Edmund Wright Lord Maior of London . Sr George Courtup . Sr Robert de Gray . Sr Christopher Athoe . Sr Thomas Cave . Sr Iohn Evelin . Sr Iohn Cotton . Sr Thomas Whitmore . Sr Iohn Palgrave . Sr Vincent Corbit . Sr Iohn Mayne . Sr Gerrard Nappard . Sr Rowland Barkeley . Sr Valentine Pell . Sr William Butler . Sr Anthony Augher : Sr Richard Napper . Sr Thomas Bernard●ston . Sr Thomas Mallet . Sr Thomas Abdy . Sr Samuel Sly . Sr William Doy● 〈◊〉 Sr Edward Duke . Sr Thomas Gibbon . 〈◊〉 Sr Thomas Hewyt . Sr Roger Smith . Sr Robert Litton : Sr William Drake . Sr Iohn Herwich . Sr Iohn Curson . Aug. 〈◊〉 Sr Iohn Rolt . 〈◊〉 Sr. George Ascough . Sr Francis Williamson . Sr Robert Fen. Sr Mi 〈…〉 Hatchinson . Sr Isaac Sidney . Sr Roger Burgoyne . Sr Thomas Godfrey . Sr Peter Godfrey . Sr Thomas Woolridge . Sr Thomas Eversfield . Sr Iohn Wild , Sr Henry Prat Kt and Bar. Sr Iohn Henden . Sr Iohn Gore . Sr Thomas Bridges . Sr Norton Knatchbutt . Sr George Stroud . Sr William Dalstone Kt and Bar. Sr Edward Partridge . Sr Robert Barkeham . Sr Robert Kempe . Sr Sampson Eure. Sr Henry Hamond . Sr Iohn Glancile . Sr Thomas Hamersly . Sr Francis Rhodes . Sr Robert Crooke . Sr Iohn Pets. Sr Thomas Bishop . Sr Hugh Owen . Sr Hugh Windbam . Sr Edward Nicholas . Sr Richard Gurney L. Maior . Sr Tho. Gardiner Recorder . Sr Iohn Petus . Sr Iohn Cordell . Sr Thomas Soame . Sr Iohn Gayre . Sr Iacob Gerrard . Sr Iohn Wollaston . Sr George Garret . Sr George Clarke . Sr Edward Astley . Sr Anthony Piercivall . Sr Thomas Trever . Sr Iohn Spelman . Sr Iohn Roberts . Sr Iohn Tusion . Sr Iohn Mallery . Sr Henry Cholmelcy . Sr Thomas Lunsford . These following were Knighted since the 4th of Ianuary 1641. and are exempted by the late Act of Parliament . THe Martin . Rich. Halford . Iohn Darrell . Isaac Astley . Iohn Rayney . William Springate . Iohn Gennet . Henry Palmer . Edward Philmore . Henry Scradling . Iohn Menys . William Man. Martin Van Trumpe . William Cooper . 〈◊〉 William Cawley Iohn Read. Robert Crampton . For 〈…〉 . Richard Stone . Edmund Cooper . The Duke of York . Earle of Carnarvan . Lord Obignie . Lord Iohn . Lord Bernard . Brian Palmes . Thomas Nortcliffe . Iames Pennyman . Francis Butler . Thomas Boswell Iordan Mctham . Richard Trencard . Iohn Girlington . Thomas Williamson . Ingram Hopton . Francis Munkton . George Middleton . Edmund Duncomb . Peter Courting . Iohn Digby . Charles Dallison . William Coney . Robert Tredway . Richard 〈◊〉 Iohn Burrell . Iordan Cros●land . Eus 〈…〉 〈◊〉 . George 〈◊〉 . Anthony Sellenger . Francis Cob. William Clarke . Edm. Fortescue . Edw. Iarret . George Theaine . Robert Leigh . Thomas Leigh . John Middleton Henry Jones . Robert Stapleton . John Wild. Francis Otley . John Wild Iun. Hugh Calveley . Richard Crane . Thomas Byron . Arnold de Lille . Thomas Screven . Richard Willis . Thomas Lister . Richard Byron . 〈◊〉 Richard Floid . Gerrard Eaton . Thomas Eaton . Anthony Morgan . Rich. Shugburrough John Smith . Robert Welch . William Palmer . 〈◊〉 . Wingfield Bodenham . Edward Sidenbam . Henry Hen. Iohn Tirringham . Tho. Maynwaring . Tho Blackwell . Henry Huncks . Edward Chester . Robert Murray . Henry Vaughan . William Mallery . William Neale . George Vaughan . Edward Hyde . Isaac Astley . John Pen Rudduck . John Winford . Henry Hunlock . Tho. Bad. Iohn Penruddock . John Scudmore . Walter Floyd . Francis Floyd . William Blackston . Lewis Kirke . Edward Lawrence . James Murray . Charles Kemish . Edward Stradling . John Hurray . Humble Ward . Butler . Charles Mobune . John Greenfield . Sam. Cosworth . Christopher Wray . Richard Chowley . William Morton . William Howard . Michael Woodhouse . Timothy Terrell . George ap Roberts Edward Alston . Edward Ford. Peter Ball. Francis Chock . Arthur Blayney . Otley . Joseph Seamore . Orlando Bridgman Henry Bare . Edw. Vaughan . Robert Breerwood . Edmund Varney . Charles Compton . William Compton . Spencer Compton Marmad . Royden . Richard Lane. William Manwaring . Robert Holborne . John Read. Thomas Gardner . VVill. Courtney . Hugh Cartwright . Henry VVood. Thomas Cheddle . George Villers . VVill. Godolphin . Robert Byron . George Parry . Iune . Martin Sands . Barnard Astley . Daniel Tyers . Iuly . Hugh Crocker . Robert Howard . Thomas Basset . Francis Basset . Charles Trevanian . John Arundell . Iohn Grills . Francis Gamull . Ioseph VVagstaffe . Edward Brett . Sackvill Glenbam . VVilliam Ratcliffe . Thomas Prestwich . Hugh Gage . Charles Floyd . Peter Brown. VVill. Campion . Iohn Owen . Chichester Luteno Gilbert Talbot . The Lord Capell . Lord Henry Scam Henry Chichley . Richard Hatten . George Bunckle . Iohn Dabridge . Edward VValker . Stephen Hawkins . Thomas Rives . Charles Cotterell . Richard Breme . Richard Malev●● Robert Peake . Iohn Ratcliff●● Lodowick VVyrc . Barthol . la Roche . Edward Barret . Richard Page . VVilliam Bridges . Mathew Appleyard . Edward Hapton . Dudly VVyat . Henry Lingham . Herbert Lunsford . Edmund Peirce . Iohn VVallpoole . VVill. Layton . Barraby Sc●damore . Henry VV●oth . Iohn VVales . Theophilus Gilby . Edward Cooper . George Lisle . Ferdinando Fisher . Charles Lee. Iohn Ogle . Anth. VVilloughby . Allen Butler . Iohn Surcot . Thomas Sherley . VVilliam Byron . George Englandby . Francis Rouse . James Bridgmam . Edmund Polcy . Iohn Knottessord . Ioseph VVagstaffe . Tho. Longue●vile . Edward Bathurst . Edmund Bray . Edw. Pridcaux . Allen Zouch . Allen Apsely . Edw Clarke . George Probat . VVill ▪ Morgan . Edw. VValgrave . Henry Iones . Iohn ▪ Norris . Gamalicl Dudle● . Iohn Duncomb . 
A48960	----	Analogia honorum, or, A treatise of honour and nobility, according to the laws and customes of England collected out of the most authentick authors, both ancient and modern : in two parts : the first containing honour military, and relateth to war, the second, honour civil, and relateth Logan, John, 17th cent. 1677 Approx. 898 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 167 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2003-01 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A48960 Wing L2834 ESTC R17555 11862579 ocm 11862579 50041 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A48960) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 50041) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 35:24) Analogia honorum, or, A treatise of honour and nobility, according to the laws and customes of England collected out of the most authentick authors, both ancient and modern : in two parts : the first containing honour military, and relateth to war, the second, honour civil, and relateth Logan, John, 17th cent. Blome, Richard, d. 1705. 181, [10] p. : ill., ports. Printed by Tho. Roycroft ..., London : 1677. Wood attributes the authorship of this treatise to Richard Blome. Cf. DNB. Includes index. Reproduction of original in Library of Congress. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. 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Nobility -- Great Britain. 2000-00 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2001-11 SPi Global Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2002-04 TCP Staff (Oxford) Sampled and proofread 2002-04 Judith Siefring Text and markup reviewed and edited 2002-05 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion Analogia Honorum : OR , A TREATISE OF Honour and Nobility , According to the LAWS and CUSTOMES OF ENGLAND . Collected out of the most Authentick Authors , both Ancient and Modern . In Two Parts . THE FIRST Containing Honour Military , and relateth to War. THE SECOND Honour Civil , and relateth to Court and City . Illustrated with variety of SCULPTURES sutable to the several Subjects . LONDON , Printed by Tho. Roycroft , Anno Dom. MDCLXXVII . To the Right Noble Iames Duke of Monmouth and Buccleuth , Earle of Doncaster and D● Lord Scott of Askdale , Tendale , and Wichester , Lord high Chamberlaine of Scotland , cheife●y and Iustice in Eyre of all his Matys . Parks , Chaces , and Forests on the South side of Trent , L d L●● of the County and Steward of the Towne of Stafford , Lord Leivtenant of the East Rideing of York shire , Governor of the Towne and Citadel of Kingston upon Hull , Chancellor of ● University of Cambridge , Master of the Horse to his Maty , Captaine of his Matys . Guard of H●● Knight of the Garter , Captaine Generall of his Matys . land Forces and one of ● Lords of his Matys most Honourable privy Councell &c a. This Plate with the Treatise of Honor Military and Civill is in all Humility dedicated to your Grace , by m● your Graces most Submissive Servant . Richard Blome . Royal blazon HONI SOIT QVI MAL Y PENSE . THE FIRST PART ; OR Honour Military . CHAP. I. ALL Honours may not improperly be said to receive their Birth either from the City , Court , or Camp , which of all is esteemed the most worthy and honourable , raising some to Imperial and Princely Dignities , and disthroning others : And in all Kingdoms ( even amongst the barbarous Americans ) War hath ever been , and yet is , held in high esteem , and of great Importance ; as well for the preservation of their Laws and Rights , as for the defence of their Dominions ; for which War is permitted by the Laws of God , is taught by the Laws of Nature , and commanded by the Laws of Nations . And to excite men to valour and noble Atchievments , Reward , or Honours is conferred upon such that merits the same , according to their Deserts , for the defence of holy Church , their King , and Country . War being therefore of such concern , it behoveth every prudent Prince , for the welfare of his People , to be always prepared for Peace or War , either Offensive or Defensive , both for Forreign Invasion , or the suppressing Domestick Insurrections ; wherefore it hath been found expedient to joyn good Laws ( the Friends of Peace and Rest ) unto Arms ; War being always accompanied with men of audacious and furious Spirits . Iustinianus , for the uniting of Laws and Arms , appointed one Officer , called a Praetor , to command both Martially and Civilly ; which Name the Romans continued for their General of War , and by his Office had Authority both Martial and Civil . By which it appears that War cannot endure without the assistance of Law : and wise men , in former Ages , did hold that Prudence and Power ought not to be separated ; of which Opinion was Horace , saying , Vis expers consilii mole ruit sua . Likewise for the same reason , learned Writers were induced to commend valiant Captains and wise Counsellors , as it were joyntly and in one rank ; for with Simonides they joyned Pausanias , with Craesus , Solon ; and with Pericles , Anaxagoras . Of War , and the Causes thereof . DIscord is common to all men , and that occasioned either by Revenge for Injuries done , out of covetousness in gaining that which belongs to others ; for ambition in gainning Fame by noble Victories , or such like Reasons ; and this maketh one City to wage war against another , one Province to invade another , and whole Kingdoms to oppress one another , even to a Conquest if they can . Aristotle proveth that some men by nature are born to Command , and others to Obey : by which it appears that War is necessary , as well to compel those to Obedience , as the others to hold their Authority . The Romans did sometimes judge it convenient to make War only to train up their Youth fit for Service , and to keep them from idleness , which breedeth Intemperance and Dishonesty . And by Action , Princes that are martially inclined , have not only gained Renown , but also much enlarged their Dominions . Yet I am of the Opinion , That War ought not to be made without just cause , and when the Enemy cannot be perswaded to reason by Embassadors , prudent Princes and Commanders do not wage War unadvisedly ; and when they do , they should follow the Example of Trajanus , who observed these Cautions ; to be careful to supply the places of his slain Souldiers ; to repress the enemies pride ; and according to Military Discipline , constrain Mutiners to Obedience and Order . Of Souldiers . SOuldiers , or men professing Arms , according to Vlpianus , were called Milites à malitia , id est duritia ; that is , were so named in respect of the hardness and danger they endure in defence of other people , or because they keep off the injuries which enemies do offer . He that desireth to enjoy the Honour belonging to Arms , ought first to prove himself a Souldier : which by the Civil Laws may be done three ways ; the first is by Certificate from the Captain or Officers ; secondly , he ought to make proof of his experience and manhood in Martial Affairs ; and thirdly , to be registred in the List of received Souldiers : and none other properly ought to be termed Souldiers . By ancient Custom , Souldiers always took an Oath not to abandon their Captain or Camp , not to commit Treason , nor consult with one another privately to cause mutining , and the like . Martianus the great Doctor , did reject Bondmen as persons unfit and unworthy to be called Souldiers ; and no person that hath committed any infamous Crime , of which he is convicted , ought afterwards to bear Arms ; so honourable is the Name and Dignity of a Souldier . The persons excused from bearing Arms , are Priests , and all in Holy Orders , all Graduates in Schools , all men above the Age of 60 years , and those under the Age of 17 years . Those Souldiers that had long served the Romans , either in their Legion , or elsewhere , and deported themselves obediently to their Officers , and honestly to all men , were called Veterani , and had great favour shewed them ; and that when any Veteran had honestly served them the space of twenty years , he was then called Emeritus , and might have his dismission to end his days in peace and quietness , with the enjoyment of divers Immunities , besides signal marks of Honour according to their merit ; which was a great encouragement to Youth to be trained up in Military Service , which oft-times they made use of , appointing Tutors to instruct them therein , and these they called Tyrones . And as on the one hand the Romans rewarded them for good Service , so on the other they inflicted punishments according to the heinousness of the Offence ; as for Treason , Disobedience , Abandoning their Colours , and Assisting the Enemy ; also for Theft , Murther , and Cowardise , which they esteemed most vile . The experience of which was seen when Spractacus defeated the Romans , conducted by Crassus : For presently upon that dishonour , Crassus commanded a Decimation , and put to death a tenth man in every Legion , for not having couragiously behaved himself ; which being done , he began the fight afresh , and although their number was lessened , yet were they victorious , and made havock of the Enemy . And if it happened that a Souldier was degraded for any Offence , it was deemed more dishonourable unto him , than a punishment either Corporal or Pecuniary . The Donatives or Rewards which the Romans used to bestow on deserving Souldiers , were either advance of Honour , increase of Wealth , or both ; and that more or less , according to their Deserts : some of which I shall here give account of . To him that had dismounted an Enemy ( if a Foot-man ) was given a pot of Gold , or a piece of Plate ; and if an Horse-man , an ornamental Badge to be set on his Crest . He that first mounted the Wall of an Enemies Town or place of Fortification , had a Crown of Gold. Octavius Caesar , after the Philippian War , gave unto the Legionary Souldiers certain Crowns , and unto every Captain a purple Garment . Iulius Caesar , after his Triumph for Victory against Pharnax , gave unto every Souldier five thousand Groats , to every Leader twice as many , and to every Horse-man double so much . Pompeius having overcome Mithridates , before he triumphed , bestowed upon every Souldier five hundred Groats , and upon the Captains a far greater Reward . And Alexander Severus did usually say , That Souldiers would not live in awe of their General , if they were not well clothed , well fed , well armed , and some mony in their Purses . Nor was the Romans slack in their Rewards unto their Generals ; for besides rich Presents , they conferred Honour on them , and received them home with triumphal Arches ; and to perpetuate their Fame , they erected Pillars , Statues , or Obylisks , to set forth their noble Victories . But what need we fetch all these Examples from the Romans , when our modern Princes do the same : witness the high advance to Honour and Riches that our Soveraign , King Charles the Second , bestowed on that truly loyal and much deserving Subject , George late Duke of Albemarle , whom I shall anon take more occasion to speak of : Nor hath his Majesties Favour been only shewed on him , but on divers others , as their Merits deserved ; some of which I shall also take occasion to speak of in place more convenient . Of Ambassadors or Legats . THE Office of an Ambassador is of so great Honour and Trust , that none are imployed therein , but such as are sufficiently known unto their Prince for Persons of Integrity , Prudence , Knowledge in State Affairs , and such as will be strict Observers of their Masters Commands . The Romans had so high an esteem for Ambassadors , that whensoever any came to Rome , he was first brought unto the Temple of Saturnus , where his Name was written before the Praefectiarii , and from thence he was conducted to deliver his Embasie to the Senate . Ambassadors ought to be in all Countries inviolable ; and whoso offered Violence unto them , was thought to have done contrary to the Law of Nations : which caused Publius Mutius to command , That whosoever did assault an Ambassador , should be delivered up to the Enemy from whom the Ambassador was sent ; and although the Enemy received him not , yet was he to remain an Exile . Ambassadors are generally imployed by their Prince for the Confirming or Establishing of Peace , a Truce , or Leagues : To demand Restitution for things unjustly detained , or Satisfaction for Injuries done : To establish or adjust Commerce , or the like . And they are sent ( and so likewise received ) in some State and Grandure befitting so high a Dignity . The Ceremonies , in many Countries , for the Confirming and Establishing of Peace , a Truce , and Leagues have been diversly used . The Lacedemonians confirmed their Treaties with great Sacraments , swearing to observe the same justly , and without fraud . The Tartarians caused some weapon of War to be brought , and thereupon they took an Oath to observe the same ; which done , they drank of the water wherein the weapon was washed . The Grecians ( after the death of Cyrus the younger ) confirming a Peace with Arieno , a Commander of a barbarous sort of people , caused a Bull , a Boar , a Wolf , and a Ram to be slain , and laid upon a Shield , and in the blood of those Beasts the Grecians dipt their Swords , and the Barbarians their Launces , each protesting to observe Fidelity and Friendship to each other . And the Romans used this Ceremony , that when Peace was made , the Praetor , the Consul , or Senate delivered to the Foecial an Herb called Verbena , or Grass pull'd up by the root , and therewith some Boughs of Verbena , together with a Flint taken out of the Temple of Iupiter Feretrius ; which done , the Foecial caused a Sow to be brought to the Market-place , and holding a Scepter in his Hand , having his Head covered with a Cloath , he crowned himself with a Crown of Verbena ; then beseeched he Iupiter , Mars , and the other Gods , that if any of the Parties failed to perform their Agreements , that then he should be stricken and slain like the Sow ; after which Imprecations her Body was cut with the Flint , upon which they cast Fire and Water , and so their Sacrifice was solemnized . Of War , and the natural Inclinations of the English to it . IRrational Animals and Vegetables are not only subject to , and swayed by the Powers and Influences of the Climate under which they live , but likewise the Temperatures and Complexions of Mens Bodies , which also worketh different effects in their Minds and Dispositions : For proof whereof , Experience sheweth that the Italians and French ( as well in former Ages as at present ) are more naturally Courtly , and of brisker Spirits than the Flemmings : The Spaniards and Lybians more Agile and Crafty , subject to Choller , Malice , and Pride , than the Suede , Muscovite , or other Septentrional People remoter from the Sun , who are more inclined to Valour and Animosity , and the Nations proximate to the Sun have their Blood seccicated , which causeth Melancholiness , and are noted for the searching into the secrets of Nature . The Greeks are inclined to Anger , but noted to have been exquisite Mechanicks . The Egyptians and Iews are addicted to Superstition and Idolatry . The Turks and Tartars to Cruelty : yea , the careless Americans to Lust and Idleness , representing the Golden Age in their modern Lives , who are , according as Ovid fansies , the ancient World. Contentique cibis nullo cogente creatus , Arbutes fetus , montanaque fraga legebant . Cornaque , & in duris herentia mora rubetis Etque deciderant patula Jovis arbore glandes . Content with Natures vain forc'd food They gather Wildings , Strawberries of the Wood , Sower Curnels , what upon the Bramble grows , And Acrons which Joves spreading Oak bestows . To draw home to Britain , a Microcosme of it self , situate under a temperate Clime , Fertile to the envy of many of her Neighbours , and blessed with all that is necessary for Human Life , producing Men endowed with all the Vertues that other People dispersed over the face of the Universe , can boast of , and principally with hearts that contemn death it self , which to other Nations is so dreadful , having an affection to Arms , and are covetous of Fame , Soveraignity , and Honour above other men . But it may be objected , How then comes it to pass that we are confined within the narrow Bounds of our Brittish Seas ? Secondly , Wherefore have we quitted our Claim to France , or suffered it to lye dormant so many Ages ? To the first may be Answered ; That it was the piety of our Princes to content their selves within their own Limits , and were unwilling to be troublesome to other Princes , until our Henry the Second was supplicated by the Irish to commiserate their Calamities , and deliver them out of their Intestine Broyls , into which their irreconcileable Divisions and unchristian-like Fewds had plunged them . Thus by Composition , rather than Conquest , was our Soveraignity confirmed in Ireland , and the Charter signed by the Irish Princes and the Commonalty , which being transmitted to Rome , was confirmed by Pope Adrian about the Year 1174. For France it may also be Answered ; That we were constrained to vindicated a just Title to that Crown by force of Arms , when Arguments and fair Means would not prevail : and for the loss of it , 't is apparent in all Histories , that our Discords at home , not the Courage or Force of France forced us to quit the same , gaining with few Blows what otherwise they would not so much as have attempted . Add hereunto the covetousness and envy of some of our Natives , who being themselves out of Command , will yield any tearms to a Forreign Enemy , rather than maintain an Army in pay for their security ; by which facile Concessions and Peace thus purchased , we discourage our Souldery , suffer them to lose their Discipline , and to degenerate by Sloath and Idleness ; ( a Depravity which cost the Romans very dear at the beginning of their second Carthagenian War ) being almost ruined before they could recover their former practise of Arms , but for us meliora spero . War being in divers Cases just upon the Offensive part , and absolutely necessary on the Defensive , 't is fit we consider the proper Definition thereof . It is generally said , to be the Exercise of Arms against an Enemy , but more properly 't is a Contention between Princes or States , by force of Men under Discipline to obtain Victory : And the end of War is either to obtain Victory , or to live in Peace and Honour . The Division of War ( for so much as concerns England ) may be of two sorts or kinds ; viz. Terene and Naval ; in open Field , or upon the Seas . The Art and Exercise of both are absolutely necessary , it being impossible for us to secure our Shoars , if we are not Masters of the Seas ; nor were we ever victorious in our Transmarine Attempts , before our Enemies Naval Forces were conquered , as appears by the Histories of Edward the Third , Henry the Fifth , &c. Thus are our Oaken Castles our securest Bulwarks to defend us from our Enemies ; nor can we offend them abroad without these floating Squadrons ; how needful then is the excellent employ of Navigation to our Nation , and how glorious , or rather terrible might we be to the Universe , it we did more encourage it , by maintaining a Royal Navy , and having an Army ready upon any occasion ; be it either by standing Troops , or a reformed and well disciplined Militia , which is held more grateful to the People in general . Philip de Comines tells us of his own knowledge , That the English , at their first Arrival in France , were very raw , and ill disciplined Souldiers ; but within the space of two or three weeks , which they spent in moderate Exercise , before the French could rally up a Force to engage them , they grew expert in their Weapons , and became fit for the Field-Service : from whence he concludes , That the English , of all People in the World , are the most prone to War , and aptest to make good Souldiers . Our late Actions at home and abroad justifie our ligitimate Succession from such valiant Ancestors ; nor is there any thing so much wanting amongst us , as Encouragement to the truly generous Martial Spirits . Charles the Fifth advises his Son to preserve his old Souldiers from sloath by constant Exercise , and to train up the Youth of Spain under Leaders who had Lands , Goods , and Relations , to secure their Loyalty to the Crown , if they were naturally addicted to Arms ; because sense of Honour , or shame of Punishment , with the loss of Estate , must necessarily prevail more with such , that can be expected from others who carry all their Interest in their Persons , and have nothing to care for but their own safety . Also the priviledge of wearing a Martial Robe ; the priority of place in some publick Assemblies , or the like , would much encourage Youth to Martial Discipline . Nor is this only a Spanish Device , but 't was the practise of the Romans , who had their several Triumphs for their Victorious Generals , and also particular Rewards for their private Souldiers . He who had first boarded an Enemies Ship , entred their Camp or Garrison , slain one of their Captains in Combat , taken a Standard , &c. was rewarded with a Silver Crown of form denoting his Exploit , with a Collar of Gold , or the like ; the wearing 〈◊〉 which in their Theatres was prized 〈◊〉 to the possession of a Seignory without ●●ch an Honour . We read of a young man ●● Scipio's Army , who had done gallant Exp●o●ts in a Battel under him , so that he deserved such a Reward as aforesaid ; Scipio judging of his mind , gave him a good sum of Money , exhorting him to persevere in his Valour : but he with a sad countenance laid down the Gold at Scipio's feet , demanding of him the Honourable Ensign of Victory in lieu of the Gold , preferring Glory before Gain ; for which noble Act he was not only commended , but advanced by the General , as most fit for Honour and Office , having a Spirit free from the sordid Vice of Covetousness , which blasts the Fame of many a valiant Captain , and ruins many a brave Army . It were to be wished that such Roman Spirits were now to be found amongst us , and then 't is probable the War might have proved more succesful : but now-adays such true Valour gives place to Interest , and to an Officer of Fortune , the dread of being disbanded makes a Victory more fatal to him than a Foil ; for who will beat his Enemy , that must feel a want when he has none to appear against ? What then more serviceable than a well disciplined Militia to be imployed upon all occasions , at Sea and Land ? For the Officers ( as men of Estates ) would be glad to win Honour with hazard of their Lives ; and if they should return with the loss of a Limb , would not put the King to the Charge of a Pension : And for the Souldiers , when dismist , may immediately fall to their Trade , or to Husbandry , pleasing themselves to tell their Neighbours the Story of their Adventures . Thus the large Armies of Horse , which support the Turkish Empire , are maintained . Thus is Poland preserved from the power of the Turk : and by this very way were our Kings anciently guarded , their Castles defended , their Forces for Conquest , as well as Defence , mustered up ( viz. by Knights Service ) as our Histories and Law Books sufficiently demonstrate . Of Captains General , Marshals , and other chief Commanders . AN Army may be provided , a Navy rigged , manned , and equipped , but the chief and most difficult task is to find a Generalissimo worthy of Command , one upon whose Conduct the hope of the War depends ; I mean not in the force of his Person , but in his Knowledge in Military Affairs , in his Magnanimity , which comprehends the four Cardinal Vertues , viz. Prudence , Justice , Temperance , and Fortitude ; in his Authority , and in his Disposition to engage the Affections of his Souldiers , without which they will hardly be brought to do him Honour , nor their King and Country good Service , as might be demonstrated by several Examples , were it convenient . It behoveth a General , not only to Conduct his Army , but carefully to provide for them Provisions as well as Ammunition , and to shew himself prudent , patient , cautious , and liberal unto them , indeavouring to gain by love what he might command from them by power . And this made Homer to call Agamemnon a Pastor of People , because he carefully looked after the safety of his Army . Theodosius the Emperor did not command the meanest of his Souldiers to do any thing , but that he himself would sometimes do . And Antonius did sometimes march on foot , and carry in his Hand the general Ensign of the Army , which was very ponderous , to shew that his Souldiers should not refuse to undergo any Labour that should be required from them . Amongst the many good properties required in a General , nothing is more commendable than Liberality ; and on the contrary , Covetousness as much detestable : for hard it is to attend the Affairs of War , and be overmuch in love with Money . Yet that Commander , who with Honor and good Conscience can attain to Wealth , is not to be disliked ; for thereby he may upon an emergent occasion supply the wants of a necessitated Army . And that General is most to be esteemed , who ( as a Souldier ) knoweth how to offend his Enemy , to govern his own Forces , patiently to suffer want , and to endure labour . heat , and cold : For sometimes it is found , that he who hath Authority to command , wanteth another to command him , for want of true knowledge of those things that belong unto his Office ; for it is more difficult for a General or Commander to know what belongeth unto him , than to execute the Office of that place , seeing that Skill must precede Action , and use go before Commandment . It is expedient for all Princes and Commanders to be well read in Histories , and principally those that concern the Actions of their Ancestors . And this ( as some believe ) caused King Edward the Third ( when he made War against Robert the Second , King of Scots ) to order a certain Monk to attend him in that Expedition , to write down all the Actions of that Enterprize . Mahomet the Second , Emperour of the Turks ; endeavoured much to know the Histories of his Predecessors , and gave liberally unto one Iohn Maria of Vincenza , to write the Victories he obtained against Vssancassan King of Persia. Much more praise and honour is due unto those Commanders , that by long Service , and due degrees of War , have deserved the Titles appertaining unto Arms , and bear about them the Scars and Marks of true Valour . A General of Horse ( according to Plato ) ought to be made by the consent of the whole Army . The Praefecti or great Commanders were elected by those Souldiers that bare Targets : The Tribuni militum had their advancement by the voice of Men at Arms ; and other Captains or Commanders of a lower quality were chosen by the chief General . And that Person that in Service was most painful , in Actions most industrious , in Perils most resolute , in Counsel most provident , and in Execution most quick , was by the Chieftains elected for their Emperor . Leo the Emperor , in his Book entituled , The Preparation for War , speaking of the Election of a General , saith , That to know the generosity of a Horse , or a Dog , we have regard to his proper Operations , rather than to the Dam or Sire which begot him ; even so the Nobleness of a Man ought to be considered by his proper Valour and Vertue , and not by the Blood of those that brought him into the World , neither of the Glory of his Ancestors , which oft-times degenerates . I confess , to aim more at the Nobleness of the Blood than at the necessary Vertues of the Person chosen , is a dangerous Error in time of Action , and proved fatal to Phocas the Emperor , when he sent his Nephew Manicel against the Sarazens , being a young Man of no Experience , yet stubborn in his Resolves ; who , contrary to the Vote of his Council of War , followed his Enemy till he was drawn by them into certain Streights , and hemmed in , and the most part of his Army slain . Fazelli lib. 6. Dec. 2. Hist. Sicili . A Charge of so grand an Import ought therefore to be bestowed upon a worthy Person , whose Vertues have been tryed in times of trouble , one ( if to be found ) whose conduct hath been crowned with Success . The Commander , whose Helmet hath been usually canopied with the Plumes of Victory , will not quickly be forsaken of his Souldiers in the uttermost Extremity ; they still expecting the same Fortune should attend him , as Iulius Caesar oftentimes experienced : nor is it an easie task to engage an Enemy against him upon equal terms . An experienced , liberal , and tender affectionative General to his Souldiers is then the Man : and the more Illustrious by Birth the better ; Equality causing Emulation , which some convert to envy , and that oftentimes ends in inveterate Malice . Never have we been more fortunate than in our Royal Armies when we have had a King , or an Heir Apparent to the Crown , the Head thereof ; witness our Victories in Palestine and Cyprus under King Richard ; our many victorious Henries and Edwards ; the Battels of Cressey , Poictiers , and Agincourt ; our grand Victory at Sea in the Dutch War under the Conduct of his Royal Highness Iames Duke of York . Nor are we at present destitute of Captains of the Blood Royal , which are endowed with all Virtues and Princely Qualities requisite for so great Imploy : Let me but mention his Royal Highness the Duke of York , and all Christendome will second me , to his eternal Fame ; that neither Alexander , Caesar , nor any other old Captains shewed greater Courage or Skill , passed through greater perils by Land or Sea than he hath done ; nor is there any Person in Europe that can justly dispute for Glory with him , or whose Life hath been so illustrious . Let us but consider , How that at Twenty years of Age he had traced most part of Christendome to encounter glorious Actions ; that since he has been engaged in all sorts of Combats , wherein he hath been Conqueror : That he hath appeared magnanimous in Campaigns , Leguers , Battels , and Seiges by Land ; in the most furious and dreadful Sea fights , in which he hath given life to some Enemies , and taken it from others : His escaping such Hazards , and passing by Domestick Broyls with a Princely Scorn , would half perswade a credulous person that he had evaded the time of dying , and that for the World 's general good it were decreed , he should endure as long as the Sun and Moon to support the Grandure of the Brittish Monarchy , in the Person of his Sacred Majesty King Charles the Second , and his lawful Successors . The Effiges of the Right Noble George , late Duke of ALBEMARLE . Earle of Torrington Baron Moncke of Potheridge● Beauchamp and Teys , Knight of the Noble order of the Garter , Lord Leiutenant of Devonshire . Captaine Generall of all his Majestyes Land Forces . Ioynt Admirall with his Highness Prince Rupert in the last Dutch Warr● one of the Lords Comissioners of his Majestys Treasury● one of the Gentlemen of his Bedchamber & - one of the Lds . of his most honble . privy Councell &c a. Edw. Le Davis sculp Thus in a Victor's Garland oft we see , Laurels with Cypress intermixed be . But I could lose my self in the Admiration of these Objects , were I not again surprized by the late Generous and Noble Exploits of the Heroick Prince , Iames Duke o● Monmouth , whose brave Spirit disdaining to be confined to the ease of a Court life , contemning the soft pleasures of Peace , seeks out Dangers abroad , makes Bellona his Mistress , de●ies death in his ascent to Honour , and thus immortalizes his Name throughout Christendome by his Valour and Conduct at Mastricht , in Anno 1673. To affect Glory in Youth is becoming a Royal Birth ; and to begin with Victory is a happy Omen of Future Success . In a long progress of time a Coward may become a Conquerour : Some others from mean Adventures , passing through gross Errors , grow to Experience , and in time perform great Exploits : But as there are few Rivers Navigable from their first Fountain ; so are such Men doubtless very rare and singular , who have not any need either of growth or years , nor are subject either to the Order of Times , or Rules of Nature . Proceed brave Prince in the path you have so fairly traced out , and let the World see your renowned Valour . Of a lower Orb , we may justly boast of our English Fabius , General Monk , who so wisely wearied out Lambert by his delays , and cajoled the rebellious Rump Parliament . He was a Person of great Valour , Experience and Prudence , whose Loyalty and Conduct hath given him a never dying Fame to be celebrated by the Pens and Tongues of all good Subjects , whilst the Name of Britain lasteth . His Exploits were truly great , his Success in his Conduct renowned with too many Victories to be here inserted : Let it suffice to say he was bred a Souldier , and after the many risks of Fortune got the Art to mannage that fickle Lady so well , that he triumphed over his Foes both in War and Peace , acted the part of a good Politician , the trusty old Cushai , confounding the Counsel of Achitophel , to preserve his Royal Master , and was the blessed Instrument of his Majestie 's most happy Restauration to his Crown and Dignity , and the Kingdom to its pristine Laws and Liberties , securing to himself and Posterity that well purchased Title of the most High , Potent , and Noble Prince George , Duke of Albemarle , Earl of Torrington , Baron Monk of Potheridge , Beauchamp and Teys ; besides which Hereditary Titles , he was Knight of the Noble Order of the Garter , one of his Majesties most Honourable Privy Council , and Captain General of all his Majesties Forces during life ; an Honour and Office scarce ever before intrusted in the hands of a Subject in times of Peace . He lived the darling of his Country , dearly beloved of his Majesty , and all the Royal Stem , and dreadful to our Forreign and Home-bred Foes , but laden with Love , Honour , and Years . He yielded up his Life to the Hands of him that gave it , and departed in peace the Third Day of Ianuary , Anno Dom. 16 69 / 70. lamented by all good Subjects . — Post funera Virtus . We have many more that by Experience and Conquest are very well known to be eminent Warriers , whose Noble Acts were enough to fill large Volumes , and whose worthy Atchievements will be recorded in the Histories of that Age for an Encouragement to Posterity , the Effigies of some of which I have here lively represented to your View . The Effigies of ye. Right honble : Charles Earle of CARLISLE Viscount Morpeth Baron Dacres of Gillsland , Lord Leiutenant of Cumberland & Westmoreland Vice Admirall of ye. Countyes of North●mberland Camberland Westmoreland the Bishoprick of Durham . The Towne & County of Newcastle & Maritin parts There adiacent & one of his Matyes most honble priuy Councell &c a Abra. Bl●thing sculp . The Effiges of the Right honble . William Earle of Craven , Viscount Craven of Vffington , Baron Craven of Hampsted-Marshall , Lord Leiutenant of the County of Middlesex , and Borough of Southwarke , and one of the Lords of his Majestys most honble . privy Councell & ca. This Portraiture is in memory of Bertram Ashburnham of Ashburnham in Sussex , who in the tyme of King Harold was Warden of the Cinqueports , Constable of Dover and Sheriff of the said County . and being a person in soe great power at the Landing of William the Congueror , King Harold ( who was then in the North ) sent him a Letter to raise all the force under his Comand to withstand the Invador . And when the King cam● vp to oppose y● Conqueror , the said Bertram ( who had an eminent Comand in the Battle ) received soe many wounds that soon after he dyed thereof And since which tyme ( through the mercy of god ) the Said family ( in a direct male line ) have euer since continued at Ashburnham aforesaid , and are the present possessors thereof . Edw : Le Davis Sculp . THE SECOND PART ; OR Honour Civil : AND Treateth of the Nobility and Gentry , according to the Laws and Customes of England . CHAP. I. Of Honour General and Particular . HONOUR is the Reward of Vertue , as Infamy the Recompence of Vice ; and he that desireth to mount her footsteps ( as naturally all men in some degree or other are addicted unto ) must arrive thereunto by the way of Vertue : which was strictly observed by the Romans ; for Dignities by Birth were not enough to advance them thereunto , if they were not endowed with Heroick and Vertuous Qualifications ; and Honour should be a Testimony of their Excellency therein . Some Learned Writers say , That Honour consisteth in exterior Signs ; and Aristotle calleth it Maximum bonorum exteriorum : Others say it is a certain Reverence in Testimony of Vertue . Honour is of greater esteem than Silver or Gold , and ought to be prized above all Earthly Treasure . And for the encouragement of Youth to vertuous Atchievements , the Romans were no more slack in their Rewards and Badges of Honour , than they were in their punishment of Vice , which was most detestable unto them . And Marcus Tullius studying to restrain the Vice of Youth , by Law ordained eight several punishments , which he called Damnum , Vincula , Verbera , Talio , Ignominia , Exilium , Mors , Servitus . The Ensigns of Honour , which the Romans used to be●tow in token of Dignity , were Chains of Gold , gilt Spurs and Launces , but principally Crowns of different forms ; which at first were made of Bays in token of Mirth and Victory , but afterwards they were made of Gold. The chief Crowns were Military , with which their Consuls and chief Commanders in their Triumphs were crowned . The next was by them called Corona Muralis , and was given to him that was first seen upon the Wall of an Enemies Town ; and this Crown was wrought with certain Battlements like a Wall , and made of Gold. Corona Castrensis , made of Gold with points like Towers ; and this was given for a Reward to him that could break the Wall of an Enemy , and enter the Town or Castle . Corona Navalis , made of Gold , garnished with Forecastles , and given to him that first boarded an Enemies Ship. Corona Oleaginea , made of Gold , given to them that repulsed an Enemy , or were Victorious in the Olympian Games . Corona Ovalis , made of Gold , given to them that entred a Town taken with little Resistance , or yielded upon Composition . Corona Obsidionalis , given to a General Leader that had saved his Army in Distress ; and this Crown was made of the Grass growing where the Army was beseiged . Corona Civica , made of Oaken Boughs , and was given to him that saved a Citizen from the Enemy . Corona Haederalis , which was given to Poets . Corona Populea , which was given to young men that were industrious , and inclined to Vertue . Aristotle makes four kinds of Civil Nobility , viz. Divitiarum , Generis , Virtutis , & Disciplinae . Sir Iohn Ferne defines Civil Nobility to be an Excellency of Dignity and Fame , placed in any Kingdom or People , through the Vertues there shewed forth to the profit of that Kingdom . Which made Diogenes to tearm Nobleness of Blood a Vail of Lewdness , a Cloak of Sloth , and a Vizard of Cowardise . Civil Nobility may be refined into a triple Division ; first by Blood , secondly by Merit , and thirdly by Blood and Merit ; which last without doubt is the most honourable , and of greatest esteem : For certainly the Honour gained lives in his Family , and doth perpetuate his Vertues to Posterity ; whilst the glory that those by descents of Blood shine in , is but the reflection of their Ancestors . For all will judge the raiser of a Family more honourable than him that succeeded him , not adding to that Honour by any Merit of his own . So that it is the best honour the Son can do his deceased Father or Relation , to imitate his Vertues . If any person be advanced by lawful Commission of his Prince , to any Place , Dignity , or publick Administration , be it either Ecclesiastical , Military , or Civil , so that the said Office comprehends in it Dignitatem , vel dignitatis titulum , he ought to be received into the Degree of Gentility . And a Man may be ennobled by Letters Patents from his Prince , though he have not the Superiour Titles added ; and may have a Coat of Arms given him . Of Gentry , and bearing of Arms. NOah had three Sons who were saved with him in the Ark from the Deluge , viz. Sem , Cham , and Iapheth ; and between these three he divided the World. Sem , his eldest Son he made Prince of Asia ; Cham , his second , Prince of Affrica ; and Iapheth , his third , Prince of Europe . . Of these three issued divers Emperors and Rulers , whereof at this day we have ten Degrees ; of which Six are called Noble , as a Gentleman , Esquire , Knight , Baronet , Baron , and Viscount : and four others are called excellent , as an Earl , Marquis , Duke , and Prince . There are Nine sundry Callings of Gentlemen . 1. The' first is a Gentleman of Ancestry , which must needs be a Gentleman of Blood. 2. The second is a Gentleman of Blood , and not of Ancestry , as when he is the second degree descended from the first . 3. The third is a Gentleman of Coat Armour , and not of Blood , as when he weareth the Kings Devise given him by a Herald . If he have Issue to the third Descent , that Issue is a Gentleman of Blood. 4. The fourth also is a Gentleman of Coat Armour , and not of Blood ; as when the King giveth a Lordship to him and his heirs for ever ; then he may by vertue thereof bear the Coat of the Lord 's making , the Herald approving thereof : But if any of the Blood of that Lordship be yet remaining , he cannot bear the same . 5. The fifth is a Christian man , that in the Service of God and his Prince kills a Heathen Gentleman , he shall bear his Arms of what degree soever ( a Knight Banneret excepted ) and use his Atchievement without any difference , saving only the word of the same miscreant Gentleman . If he also have Issue to the fifth Degree , they are Gentiles of Blood. Note that no Christian may bear another Christians Coat , nor a Pagan a Pagans Coat , on the Condition abovesaid : But if an English man in the Field , when the Banner Royal is displayed , do put to flight any Gentleman which is an Enemy to his Prince , from his Banner of Arms the English Souldier may honour his own Coat in the Sinister Quarter with the proper Coat of the Gentleman that he so put to flight . Also in Challenge of Combat the Victor shall not bear the Coat of the Vanquished : yet indeed the Vanquished shall lose his own Coat ; But if he marry a Gentlewoman of Coat-Armour , by the Courtesie of England he may bear hers . 6. If the King do make a Yeoman a Knight , he is then a Gentleman of Blood. 7. The Seventh is when a Yeoman's Son is advanced to Spiritual Dignity , he is then a Gentleman , but not of Blood ; but if he be a Doctor of the Civil Law , he is then a Gentleman of Blood. 8. The Eighth is called a Gentleman untryal , as brought up in an Abby , and serving in good calling , and also is of kind to the Abbots . 9. The Ninth is called a Gentleman Apocrifate , such a one as serving the Prince as a Page , groweth by diligence of Service to be Steward , or Clerk of the Kitchin , and is without Badge of his own , except when the Prince by the Herald endoweth him with some Conisance , &c. Aristotle in his Politicks reciteth four kinds of Nobility ; that is , Nobleness of Riches , Nobleness of Lineage , Nobleness of Vertue , and Nobleness of Science , amongst which , those of Vertue and Lineage are of chief estimation , being such from whence the others do proceed . As some write , Nobility began to be advanced shortly after Noah's Flood : For when possessions were given by the consent of the people ( who had all things in common , and were of equal degree ) they gave them to such whom they admired for their Vertues , and from whom they received a common benefit . The Law of Arms , which is chiefly directed by the Civil Law , must needs be very ancient ; for field nor fight cannot be continued without the Law ; therefore 't is to be presumed it began when Battels were first fought in the World ; and the bearing of Arms was come to some perfection at the Siege of Troy ; for Hector of Troy bore Sable , two Lyons combattant , Or. It is written by an ancient Author , called Gesta Trojanor ● that a Knight was made before any Coat-Armour ; and how . Asterial , who came from the Line of Iapheth , had a Son named Olibion , who was a strong and mighty man , and when the people multiplyed , being without a Governour , and were warred upon by the people of Cham , they all cryed upon Olibion to be their Governour ; which accepting of , and men being mustered under him , his Father made to his Son a Garland of Nine divers precious Stones , in token of Chivalry . Then Olibion kneeled down , and his Father took Iapheth's Faulchion that Tubal made before the Flood , and smote him nine times on the right shoulder , in token of the nine Vertues of Chivalry . Also Asterial gave to his Son Olibion a Target made of an Olive Tree , with three Corners , two above his Face , and one beneath to the ground-ward . Principles of Honour and Vertue that every Gentleman ought to be endowed with . TO love , honour , and fear God , to walk after his Commandments , and to his power defend and maintain the Christian Religion ; To be loyal and serviceable to his Prince and Country ; To use Military Exercises ; To frequent the War , and to prefer Honour before worldly wealth ; to be charitable to the distres●ed , and to support Widows and Orphans ; To reverence Magistrates , and those placed in Authority ; To cherish and encourage Truth , Vertue , and Honesty , and to eschew Riot , Intemperance , Sloth , and all dishonest Recreations and Company ; To be of a courteous , gentle , and affable deportment to all men , and to detest pride and haughtiness ; To be of an open and liberal heart , delighting in Hospitality● according to the Talent that God hath blest him with ; To be true and just in his word and dealing , and in all respects give no cause of Offence . Of Precedency . THe Degrees of Honour which are in this Kingdom observed , and according to which they have precedency , may be comprehended under two Heads , viz. Nobiles Majores , and Nobiles Minores . Those comprehended under Majores are Dukes of the Royal Blood , Archbishops , Marqui●●es , Earls , Viscounts , Bishops , and Barons : And those under Minores are Knights of the Garter ( ●f no otherwise dignified ) Knights Bannerets , Baronets , Knights of the Bath , Knights Batchelors , Esquires , and Gentlemen . And all or most of these Degrees of Honour are speculatively distinguished the one from the other in their Ensigns or Shields of Honour , as shall be shewed in the Chapter of each particular Degree . Touching place of Precedency amonst the Peers , or those under the Name of Nobiles Majores , it is to be observed , That all Nobles of each Degree take place according to their Seniority of Creation , and not of years , unless they are descended of the Blood Royal , and then they take place of all others of the same Degree . That after the King , the Princes of the Blood viz. the Sons , Grandsons , Brothers , and Nephews of the King take place : Then these great Officers of the Church and Crown are to precede all other of the Nobility , viz. the Archbishop of Canterbury , the Lord Chancellor , or Lord Keeper of the Great Seal , the Archbishop of York , the Lord Treasurer of England , the Lord President of the Privy Council , and the Lord Privy Seal . Next Dukes , Marquisses , Dukes eldest Sons , Earls , Marquisses eldest Sons , Dukes younger Sons , Viscounts , Earls eldest Sons , Marquisses younger Sons , Bishops , Barons , Viscounts eldest Sons , Earls youngest Sons , Barons eldest Sons , Privy Councellors , Judges , and Masters of the Chancery , Viscounts younger sons , Barons younger sons , Knights of the Garter ( if no otherwise dignified , which is seldom sound ) Knights Bannerets , Baronets , Knights of the Bath , Knights Batchelors , Colonels , Serjeants at Law , Doctors , and Esquires , which may be comprehended under ●ive Heads : 1. Esquires unto the King's Body ; 2. The Descendants by the Male Line from a Peer of the Realm ; 3. The eldest sons of Baronets and Knights ; 4. The two Esquires attending upon Knights of the Bath at their making ; And 5. Officiary Esquires , as Justices of the Peace , Barresters at Law , Lieutenant Colonels , Majors , and Captains ; and lastly Gentlemen . Note , That these great Officers of Court , of what Degree soever they are of , take place above all others of the said Degree ; viz. the Master of the Horse , Lord Chamberlain of England , Lord High Cons●able of England , Lord Marshal of England , Lord Admiral of England , Lord Steward , and Lord Chamberlain of his Majesties Houshold . So the Secretaries of State , if Peers , take place of all of that Degree , except these great Officers aforesaid . Note , That the Ladies take place or precedency according to the Degree or Quality of their Husbands . ☞ Note , That in a Volume lately published by me , entituled Britannia , being a Description of his Majesties Dominions , in page 33. the precedency of the Nobility and Gentry is treated of , wherein the Masters of the Chancery are placed next after Serjeants at Law , which Error happened through wrong Information , their right place being next after Iudges , as is here set down . Note , That it was decreed by King Iames , That the younger sons of Viscounts and Barons should yield place to all Knights of the Garter , to all Bannerets made under the Standard Royal , his Majesty being present , to all Privy Councellors , Master of the Wards , Chancellor , and under Treasurer of the Exchequer , Chancellor of the Dutchy , Chief Justice of the King's Bench , Master of the Rolls , Chief Justice of the Common Pleas , Chief Baron of the Exchequer , and to all other Judges and Barons of the degree of the Coif , by reason of their Honourable imploy in his Majesties Courts of Justice . Note , That as there are some great Officers , as a●oresaid , that take place above the Nobility of a higher Degree ; so are there some persons , who for their Dignities Ecclesiastick , Degrees in the Universities , and Of●icers in an Army , although neither Knights nor Gentlemen born , take place amongs● them : Thus all Deans , Chancellors , Prebends , Doctors of Divinity , Law , and Physick , are usually placed before most sorts of Esquires . All Colonels are Honourable , and by the Law of Arms ought to precede simple Knights ; so are all Field Officers , Master of the Artillery , Quarter-Master General , &c. All Batchelors of Divinity , Law , and Physick , all Masters of Arts , Barrestors in the Inns of Court , Captains , and other Commissionate Officers in the Army , or those by Patent-places in his Majesties Houshold may equal ( and some of them precede ) any Gentleman that hath none of these qualifications . But how unjustly these Priviledges are possessed by some of these pretenders , and how contrary this usage is to the Laws of Honour , see the Chapter of Gentlemen . I think it here convenient to give you an Account of the Cavalcade of his M●●●●ties passing through the City of London , ●●●●●e his Coronation , which was on Monday t●e 22 th of April , 1661. First the Duke of York's Horse Guard. Messengers of the Chambers in their Coats , with the King's Arms before and behind . Esquires to the Knights of the Bath , in number 140. Knight Harbinger and Serjeant Porter , Sewers of the Chamber , Gentlemen Ushers , Quarter Waiters , in Cloaks . Clerks of the Chancery , 6. Clerks of the Signet , 4. Clerks of the Privy Seal , in Gowns . Clerks of the Council , 4. in Cloaks . Clerks of the Parliament , 2. Clerks of the Crown , 2. in Gowns . Chaplains having Dignities , 10. in Gowns and square Caps . The King's Advocate , The King's Remembrancer , Masters of the Chancery , The King's Counsel at Law , 2. in Gowns . The King's puisne Serjeants , 2. The King's Attorney , The King's Solicitor , The King's eldest Serjeants , 2. in Gowns . Two Secretaries of the French and Latin Tongue , in Gowns . Gentlemen Ushers , Daily Waiters , in Cloaks . Sewers in Ordinary , in Cloaks . Carvers in Ordinary , in Cloaks . Cup-bearers in Ordinary , in Cloaks . Esquires of the Body , 4. The Effigies of the Right honble : Heneage Lord Finch , Baron of Daventry , Lord High Chancellor of England , & one of the Lords of the most honble . Privy Councell , to King Charles ye. second . Anno Dn̄i : 1676. The Effigies of the Right honble : Anthony Earle of Shaftsbury , Baron Ashley , of Wimbourne , St Giles , & Ld. Cooper of Pawlet ; Ld. High Chancellor of England , Ld. Leiutenant of the County of Dorset , and ●one of the Lords of ye. most honble . Privy Councell● to King Charles y● . 2d. Anno Domini ●673 . Masters of standing Offices , Tents 1. in Cloaks . Masters of standing Offices , Revels 1. in Cloaks . Masters of standing Offices , Ceremonies 1. in Cloaks . Masters of standing Offices , Armory 1. in Cloaks . Masters of standing Offices , Wardrobe 1. in Cloaks . Masters of standing Offices , Ordnance 1. in Cloaks . Masters of the Requests , 4. Chamberlains of the Exchequer , 2. in Gowns . Gentlemen of the Privy Chamber , in Cloaks . Knights of the Bath , 68. in long Mantles , with Hats and Feathers . The Knight Marshal , in a rich Coat . Treasurer of the Chamber , Master of the Jewel House , in Cloaks . Barons younger Sons . Viscounts younger Sons . Barons of the Exchequer , 3. in Robes and Caps . Justices of the King's Bench and Common Pleas , 6. in Robes , Caps , and Collars . Lord Chief Baron of the Exchequer , Lord Chief Justice of the Common Pleas , in Robes , Caps , and Collars . Master of the Rolls , in a Gown . Lord Chief Justice of the King's Bench , in his Robe , Cap , and Collar . Knights of the Privy Council , in Cloaks . Barons eldest Sons . Earls younger Sons . Viscounts eldest Sons . Kettle Drums . The King's Trumpeters , in rich Coats . The Serjeant Trumpeter with his Mace. Two Pursuevants at Arms , in their Coats of Arms. Barons 51. in Cloaks . Marquisses younger sons . Earls eldest Sons . Two Pursuevants at Arms , in their Coats of Arms. Viscounts 7. Dukes younger Sons . Marquisses eldest Sons . Two Heralds in their Coats with Collars of SS . Earls 32. in Cloaks . Lord Chamberlain of the King's Houshold , with his white Staff. Dukes eldest Sons . Two Heralds in Coats with Collars of SS . Two Marquisses in Cloaks . Two Heralds in Coats with Collars of SS . The Duke of Buckingham . Clarencieux , King at Arms , in Coats with Collars of SS . Norroy , King at Arms , in Coats with Collars of SS . The Lord Treasurer with his white Staff. The Lord Chancellor with the Purse . The Lord High Steward with his white Staff. Two Persons , one representing the Duke of Aquitain , and the other the Duke of Normandy , in broad Caps and Robes of Ermyn . The Gentleman Usher with the black Rod on the right hand , bareheaded , in a rich Cloak , Garter King of Arms , bareheaded , in his Coat and Collar of SS . The Lord Mayor of London carrying the City Scepter on the left hand , bareheaded . The Duke of York . Serjeants at Arms with their Maces , 8 on a side from the Sword forwards , in rich Cloaks . The Lord Great Chamberlain on the right hand . The Sword born by the Earl of Suffolk , Marshal pro tempore . The Earl of Northumberland , Lord Constable of England pro tempore , on the left hand . Gentlemen Pensioners with Pole-Axes . The King. Gentlemen Pensioners with their Pole-Axes . Esquires . Footmen . The Master of the Horse leading a spare Horse . The Vice Chamberlain . Captain of the Pensioners . Captain of the Guard. The Lieutenant of the Pensioners . the King's Horse Guard. The Lord General 's Horse Guard. As in Man's Body , for the preservation of the whole , divers Functions and Offices of Members are required ; even so in all well governed Common-wealths , a distinction of persons is necessary ; and the policy of this Realm of England , for the Government and Maintainance of the Common-wealth , hath made a threefold Division of persons ; that is to say , First the King , our Soveraign Monarch ( under which Name also a Soveraign Queen is comprised , as it is declared by the Statute made in the first of Queen Mary , cap. 1. Parliam . 2. ) Secondly the Nobles , which comprehend the Prince , Dukes , Marquisses , Earls , Viscounts , and Lords Spiritual and Temporal . Thirdly the Commons , by which general word is understood Baronets , Knights , Esquires , Gentlemen , Yeomen , Artificers , and Labourers . It is observed , that our Law calleth none Noble under the Degree of a Baron , and not as men of Forreign Countries do use to speak , with whom every man of Gentle Birth is counted Noble : For we daily see , that both Gentlemen and Knights do serve in Parliament , as Members of the Commonalty . Neither do these words the Nobles , the high and great men in the Realm , imply the Person and Majesty of the King : but with the Civilians the King is reckoned among the Nobility . The Nobility are known by the general Name of Peers of the Realm , or Barons of England ; for Dukes , Marquisses , Earls , and Viscounts did anciently sit together in the King 's great Council of Parliament as Barons , and in right only of their Baronies : And therefore by the general Name of Barons of the Realm , and for the Baronage thereof , we under●●and the whole Body of the Nobility ; the Parliament Robes of the Dukes differing nothing from the Barons , but that they wear the Guards upon their Shoulders three or four folds : For though Dukes , Marquisses , Earls , and Viscounts in their Creations are attired with Ornaments of Silk and Velvet ; yet in Parliament they use the same that Barons do , made of Scarlet , with divers differences of white Fur set as Fringes or Edgings on their Shoulders ; and although they sit in right of their Baronies , yet they take their places according to their degrees of Dignity . And hence it is that those bloody Civil Wars concerning the Liberties granted in the Great Charter , both in the time of King Iohn , and Henry the Third , his Son , prosecuted by all the Nobility ( some few excepted ) are called in our Histories the Barons Wars . Neither have the Spiritual Lords any other Title to that preheminence , but by their ancient Baronies : For although originally all the possessions of Bishops , Abbots , and Priors , were given and holden in Frank Almoign ; most of their Tenures were altered , viz. Baronia , as appeareth in Matthew Paris A. 1070. fol. 66. and of that Tenure have continued ever since , as you may read by the Constitutions of Clarendon in the Reign of Henry the Second , and in Glanvile and Bracton . But the Tenures of all Abbots and Priors were extinguished by the uniting and coming of them to the Crown by the Statute of Dissolution of Monasteries : For though the Nobility of England differ in Titles and certain Ceremonies , yet a Baron enjoyeth the same priviledges . And by experience it is found , That Dukes and all other degrees of Nobility in Cases Criminal are tryed by Barons , together with Marquisses , Earls , and Viscounts , as their Peers , and Peers of the Realm . Nobilitas generally is of the word [ Nosco ] signifying in common phrases of speech , Men of Generosity of Blood and Degree ; and therefore it is said , Vir nobilis idem est quod notus , & per omnia or a vulgatus : But especially it is applyed and used to express the reward of Vertue in honourable measure , Ageneris claritate , which being in part of distributive Justice , remaineth with the highest Soveraign annexed to the Imperial Crown of this Realm . For as Vertue is the gift of none but of God , so the reward thereof with Honour cannot be the gift of any but the Supreme Governour , being God's Vicegerent on Earth . But when Honour and Arms be bestowed upon any , if there shall arise contention between Competitors for the same , the ancient policy of this Realm hath ordained a Special Court ; the Judges whereof in all times having been Right Honourable Personages , viz. the Lord High Constable and the Earl Marshal ; and in latter times the Judge thereof only the Earl Marshal . The Jurisdiction of the Court consis●eth in the Execution of that part of distributive Justice , which concerneth the advancement and support of Vertue . Nevertheless some men there are , not duly considering of what principle and parts the Laws of this Realm do consist , have laboured to prove that the Questions and Controversies of Nobility and Arms should not be determined by the Laws of the Realm , but by the Civil Law , framing to themselves many Arguments to prove the same ; but being of small value , I pass them over . The Common Laws , as also the Laws of Charity used in the Marshals Court , do prohibit any Subject of this Realm to receive Titles of Honour and Dignity by gift or donation from a Forreign Prince , King , or Emperor ; for it is a thing greatly touching the Majesty of the King and State of his Kingdom , Est vis Majestatis & inter insignia summae potestatis . And if a man shall bring an Action , and in the Writ is styled by such a Forreign Title , the Defendant may plead in Abatement of his Writ , That he is no Duke , Marquis , Earl or Baron ; whereupon if the Plaintiff , as demanded , take Issue , the Issue shall not be tryed by the Jury , but by the Records of Parliament , wherein he faileth . And if any English man be created Earl of the Empire , or of any other Forreign Nation , and the King also do create him into any Title of Honour in England , he shall be named in all Judicial proceedings only by such Name and Title as he hath received from the King of this Realm , whose Subject he is . And if by the King of England he be not advanced to Title of Honour , then he shall bear the name only of his Baptism and Surname , unless he be a Knight . For experience teacheth that Kings joyned in League together by certain mutual , and as it were natural , power of Monarchies according to the Laws of Nations , have dismissed one anothers Subjects and Ambassadors graced with the Dignity of Knighthood . A Duke of Spain , or of another Forreign Nation , cometh into England by the King 's safe Conduct , in which also the King doth style him Duke , according to his Creation ; nevertheless in all proceedings in the King's Courts he shall not be so stiled by his Title of Dignity . And although the said Noble person be also by the King's Letters Patents , and by his Forreign Name and Title of Dignity made Denizon ( for that is the right Name so called , because his Legitimation is given to him ) : Or if he be naturalized by Authority of Parliament , wherein he seemeth to be in all things made as a Subject born , yet shall he not be styled by his Foreign Titles of Dignity . And so it is if a Nobleman of France , or elsewhere , come into England as Ambassador , and by lawful Marriage hath a Son , and the Father dieth , the Son is by Birth a Natural Englishman , yet he shall not bear the Title of Honour of his Father ; and the reason thereof is , because that Title of Nobility had its Original by a French King , and not by any natural Operation : which thing is well proved both by Authority of Law and Experience in these days . If a Postna●us of Scotland or Ireland ( who in these days is a Natural Subject to the King of England ) or if any of his Posterity be the Heirs of a Nobleman of Scotland or Ireland , yet he is none of the Nobility of England : But if that Alien or Stranger born a Scot , be summoned by the King 's Writ to Parliament , and therein is styled by his Foreign or other Title , whereunto he is invested within England by the King 's Grant ; then , and from thenceforth he is a Peer of this Realm ; and in all Judicial and Legal Proceedings he ought to be so styled , and by no other Name . And it was the Case of Gilbert Humfrevile Earl of Angus in Scotland : of it appertaineth to the Royal Prerogative of the King , to call and admit an Alien born to have place and voice in his Parliament at his pleasure ; although it is put in practice very rarely , and that for great and weighty Considerations of State. And if after such Parliamentary Summons of such a Stranger born question do arise , and the Issue be , whether he is of that Title or no ? it may well be tryed by the Record , which is the only lawful tryal in that Case . But there is a Diversity worthy of Observation , for the highest and lowest Degrees are universal ; and therefore a Knight ( Engglish or Stranger born ) is a Knight in all Nations , in what place soever he received his Title and Dignity , and so ought of right , and by Law , to be named in the King's Courts as aforesaid . Also if the Emperor , the King of Denmark , or other Foreign King , come into this Realm by safe conduct ( as he ought ; for a Monarch or absolute Prince , though he be in League , cannot come without the King's Licence and safe Conduct ; but any Subject to such a Foreign King in League , may come without Licence . ) In this Case he shall sue and be sued by the Name of Emperor or King , or else the Writ shall abate . There is a notable President cited out of Fleta , where treating of the Jurisdiction of the King's Court of Marshalsea , it is said , And these things he might lawfully do by Office ; that is to say , The Steward of the King's Houshold , notwithstanding the Liberty of any other , although in another Kingdom , when the Offender may be found in the King's Houshold : according to that which happened at Paris in the Fourteenth year of Edward the First , when Engelram of Nogeut was taken in the Houshold of the King of England ( the King himself being then at Paris ) with silver Dishes lately stoln ; at which deed the King of France did claim Cognizance of the Plea concerning that . Theft by Jurisdiction of that Court of Paris . The matter being diversly debated in the Council of the King of France , at length it was Ordered , That the King of England should use and enjoy that Kingly Prerogative of his Houshold , who being Convicted by Robert Fitz-Iohn Knight , Steward of the King's Houshold , of the Theft , by consideration of the said Court , was hanged on the Gallows in St. Germans Field . And here by the way may be noted from those recited Books alledged , That the person of the King in another King's Dominions is not absolutely priviledged , but that he may be impleaded for Debt or Trespass , or condemned for Treason committed with in the said Dominions : For it is the general Law of Nations , that in what place an Offence is committed , according to the Law of the said place they may be judged , without regard to any priviledge . Neither can a King in any other Kingdom challenge any such Prerogative of Immunity from Laws : For a King out of his proper Kingdom hath not merum Imperium , but only doth retain Honoris titulos & dignitatis ; so that where he hath offended in his own Person against the King in whose Nation he is , per omnia distringitur , etiam quoad personam . And the same Law is of Ambassadors , ne occasio daretur delinquendi . That Ambassadors are called Legats , because they are chosen as fit men out of many ; and their Persons be sacred both at home and abroad , so that no man may injuriously lay violent hands upon them , without breach of the Law of Nations , and much less upon the person of a King in a strange Land. Bracton , a Judge of this Realm in the Reign of King Henry the Third , in his first Book , and eighth Case , saith , There is no respect of Persons with God ; but with men there is a difference of Persons ; viz. the King , and under him Dukes , Counts , Barons , Lords , Vavasors , and Knights . Counts , so called , because they take the Name from the County , or from the word Sociati , who also may be termed Consules of Counselling ; for Kings do associate such men unto them to govern the People of God , ordaining into great Honours , Power , and Name , where they do gird them with Swords , that is to say , Ringis gladorium . Upon this cause were the Stations and Encampings of Arms , called by the Romans Castra , of the word Castrare , since they ought to be Castrata vel Casta. In this place ought a good General to foresee that Venus Delights be ( as it were ) gelded and cut off from the Army . So Sir Iohn Fern's Book , entituled The Glory of Generosity ; Ring , so called quasi renes girans & circundans , for that they compass the Reins of such , that they may keep them from Incest of Luxury ; because the Luxurious and Incestuous persons are abominable unto God. The Sword also doth signifie the Defence of King and Country . And thus much in general of the Nobility of England . Now followeth a more particular Discourse of each particular Degree ; and first of his Majesty , the Fountain from whence all these Rivulets and swelling Streams of Honour's Spring . The most high and mighty Monarch CHARLES the second by the Grace of God King of Great Britaine● France , and Ireland● Defender of the faith & ca. The Effiges of the most high and mighty Monarch CHARLES the second by the Grace of God King of Great Britaine ; France , and Ireland ; De●ender of the faith . & c●● OF THE KING , OR MONARCH OF Great Britain . CHAP. II. MONARCHY is as ancient as Man , Adam being created Soveraign Lord of the Universe , whose Office was to govern the whole World and all Creatures therein . His Posterity ( after his Death ) dividing into Tribes and Generations , acknowledged no other Dominion than Paternity and Eldership . The Fathers of Nations were instead of Kings , and the Eldest Sons in every Family were reverenced as Princes , from whence came the word Seignior amongst the Italians and French , and Seignories for Lordship and Dominion ; of which Seneca makes two kinds , viz. Potestas aut Imperium , power to command , & Proprietas aut Dominium , Property or Dominion . These Empires in the Golden Age were founded upon natural Reverency and Piety ; their Power was executed with the soft Weapons of paternal perswasions , and the greatest penalties that they inflicted upon the most Capital Criminals was the malediction of their Primogenitors , with an Excommunication out of the Tribes : But as Men and Vice began to increase , Pride and evil Examples overshadowed Filial Obedience , and Violence entred upon the Stage of the World , the mighty Men tru●ling in their own strength , oppressed the Feeble , and were at length forced to truckle under the tyranny of others more Gygantick than themselves , which necessitated them to submit to Government for self-preservation , many housholds conjoyning made a Village , many Villages a City , and these Cities and Citizens confederating established Laws by consent , which in tract of time were called Commonwealths ; some being governed by Kings , some by Magistrates , and some so unfortunate as to fall under the yoak of a popular Rule , Nam Plebs est pessimus Tyrannus . The first Chiefs or Kings were men of Vertue , elected for their Wisdom and Courage , being both Reges & Duces , to govern according to their Laws in Peace , and to lead them forth to Battel against their Enemies in time of Hostility . And this Rule proving more safe for the people , honourable amongst men , and ●●rm in it self than the other , most Nations followed it , approving the Sentence of Tacitus , Pr●stat sub Principo ●alo esse quam nulle . Lamentable Experience , the Mistress of Fools in some , and of Wisdom in others , in the Ages sequent necessitated them again to quit the ●orm of Election , and to entail the Soveraign Power in the Hereditary Loyns of their Kings , to prevent the fatal consequence of Ambition amongst equal pretenders in popular Elections . Thus the beginning of an Empire is ascribed to reason and necessity ; ●ut 't was God himself that illuminated the minds of men , and let them see they could not subsist without a Supream in their human affairs . Necessitas ●st firmum judicium & immutabilis providentiae potestas . This Island of Great Britain , when Barbarism was so happy as to submit to a Regal Power ( as Caesar in his Commentaries witnesseth ) then divided into many Kingdoms ; under which Government of Kings ( with some small alterations , according to the necessity of times and pleasure of Conquerors ) it hath flourished , descending from the British , Saxon , Danish , Norman , and Scotch Kings , to our gracious Soveraign Charles the Second , into whose Veins all those several streams of Royal Blood are conjoyned to unite those jarring Nations into one Body , under a Head , unto which each one may justly claim an interest . God hath thus restored our ancient Government , and seated our Soveraign in the Throne of his Ancestors , giving him a power just and absolute , as well to preserve as curb his people , being not only Major singulis , but Major universis ; and his power is super totam Rempublicam , which I thus prove , Either the whole power of the Commonwealth is in one , or not ; if not , then he is no absolute King or Monarch ; but if he be ( as all must yield ) a Monarch , I ask if there be a power in the Commonwealth which is not in him ? Is it subordinate to his power , or not ? If subordinate , than his power is above that power , and so super totam Rempublicam & Major universis ; if it be not , then there are a simul & semel to Supream Civil Powers in the same individual Kingdom and Gubernation , and yet divided against it self , which is most absurd and impossible . This in Answer to a monstrous Pamphlet , which the lasciviousness of our late unhappy Wars produced , which asserted Rex minor universis . But the Divine Providence hath ( I hope ) put a period to all such Trayterous Tenents , and concluded such Disputes by Acts of Parliament ; so that no person for the future shall dare to question who hath the right of making Peace or War , the power of Militia by Land and Sea , all strong Holds and Forts , &c. being the inherent right of the English Monarchs by their Prerogative Royal. The King is God's Vicegerent , and ought to be obeyed accordingly : If good , he is a blessing ; if bad , a judgment : and then against whom we are to use no other weapons but prayers and tears for his amendment . He is styled Pater Patriae , & Caput Re●publicae ; and because the protection of his Subjects belongs to his care and office ; the Militia is annext to his Crown , that the Sword as well as the Scepter , may be in his hand . The Parliament ( then all Roman Catholicks ) in the behalf of Henry the Eighth writ to the Pope , declaring that his Royal Majesty is the Head , and the very Soul of us all ; his Cause is the Cause of us all , derived from the Head upon the Members ; his Griefs and Injuries are ours , we all suffer equally with him . Camden in his Britannia , fol. 100. calls the King the most excellent part of the Commonwealth , next unto God. He is under no Vassuage ; he takes his Investure from no man. Rex non habet Superiorem , nisi Deum : satìs habet ad poenam , quod Deum expectat ultorem . In England , France , Spain , &c. Kings are styled Dei Gratia , &c. and as the French King is said to be Rex Francorum Christianissimus , the most Christian King of France ; The King of Spain the most Catholick ; The Emperour the Defender of the Church : So the Kings of England , by a Bull from Pope Leo the Tenth , sent to King Henry the Eighth ( for a Book of Controversie written by him against Luther ) have the Title of Defenders of the Faith ; and by Act of Parliament he is declared Supream Head of the Church of England . It is the manner also for Kings to write in the plural Number ( which is God's own style ) Mandamus , Volumus , &c. and in the Scripture we find them called Gods , in which sense they may be styled Divi , or Dii , quia Dei Vicarii , & Dei voce judicant . Our Lawyers also say , Rex est persona mixta cum Sacerdote , habet Ecclesiasticam & Spiritualem Iurisdictionem . This shews the King's power in Ecclesiastical Causes , being anoynted with Oyl as the Priests , and afterwards the Kings of Israel were ; which signifies his person to be both Sacred and Spiritual . And therefore at the Coronation hath put upon him a Priest's Garment , called the Dalmatica , or Colobium , and other such Vests . And before the Reformation , the King , as a Spiritual person , received the Sacrament in both kinds . He is capable of holding Tithes ; all Extra-Parochial Tithes , some Proxies , and other Spiritual profits belong to the King. The Ceremonies at the Coronation of the King are many , and with us in England more than in many other Countries ; As the Anoynting with Oyl , which is proved by Mr. Selden to be of above one thousand years standing ; the Crown set upon his Head with many Religious Ceremonies : besides the Ensigns of Regality , which are a Ring to signi●ie his Fait●fulnes ; a Bracelet for Good Works ; a Scepter for Justice ; a Sword for Vengeance ; Purple Robes to attract Reverence ; and a Diadem triumphant to blazon his Glory . It was the saying of Thomas Becket Archbishop of Canterbury , Inunguntur Reges in Capi●e , etiam pect●re & brach●is , quod significat gloriam , sanctitatem & for●●n● in●●n . King's are Anoynted on the Head to signi●●e their Glory , on the Breast to Emblematize their Sanctity , and on their Arms to declare their power . He is crowned with an Imperial Crown , the Crown set on his Head by the Arch-bishop of Canterbury ; a prerogative belonging to that See , as it is in Spain to Toledo , in France to Rheims , and in Sueden to Vpsalia . But this Imperial Crown hath not been long in use amongst us ( though our Kings have had Imperial Commands , as over Scotland , Ireland , Man , and other Isles ) being in a manner like that of an Earls now . Neither is it found that any such thing as a Diadem was at all in use , until the tune of Constantine the Great : For before the distinction was some kind of Chaplet , or rather a white silk Fillet about the Head , which was an ordinary way to distinguish them . And we read that Alexander the Great took off his white Diadem to cure the madness of Seleucus . The first King that was crowned with this Imperial Crown floried and arched , was Henry the Third , but some say Henry the First , and indeed it is left in dispute . However , it is very probable and plain , That the ancientest Ensign of Regal Authority was the Scepter , which is every where spoken of , both in Scripture and Prophane History . There is another Ensign of their Authority , which is a Globe or Mound with a Cross , which hath been in use amongst us ever since Edward the Confessor's time , which is placed in the left hand , as is seen in most of their Coyns : The Cross denoting his Faith , the Globe his Empire by Sea and Land ; as 't is said of Iustinian the Emperor , who was the first that ever used it . The Office of the King of England , according to Fortescue , Pugnare bella populi sui & eos rectissime judicare , to fight the Battels of his people , and to see Right and Justice done unto them : or more particularly ( as is promised at the Coronation ) to preserve the Rights and Priviledges of Holy Church , the Royal Prerogatives belonging to the Crown , the Laws and Customs of the Realm , to do Justice , shew Mercy , keep Peace and Unity , &c. The King is enabled to perform this great and weighty Office by certain extraordinary powers and priviledges which he holds by the Law of Nations , by the Common Law of England , or by Statutes . The Regalia were anciently called Sacra Sacrorum ( as his Lands are called in Law Patrimoni●● S●c●●● ) now commonly Royal Preroga●ives . The King being Principium , Cap●● , & ●inis Parli●menti , may of his meer will and pleasure Convoke , Adjourn , Remove , and Dissolve Parliaments : He may , to any Bill that is passed by both Houses of Parliament , refuse to give his Royal Assent , without rendring a Reason ; and without his Assent a Bill is as a ●ody without a Soul : He may at his pleasure encrease the number of the Members of both Houses , by creating more Peers of the Realm , and bes●owing priviledges upon any other Towns to send Burgelles by Writ to Parliament : and he may refuse to send his Writ to some others that have sate in former Parliaments . He hath alone the choice and nomination of all Commanders and Officers for Land and Sea-service ; the choice and election of all Magistrates , Counsellors , and Officers of State ; of all Bishops , and other Ecclesiastick Dignities ; also the bestowing and conferring of Honours , and the power of determining Rewards and Punishments . By Letters Patent his Majesty may erect new Counties , Universities , Bishopricks , Cities , Boroughs , Colledges , Hospitals , Schools , Fairs , Markets , Courts of Judicature , Forests , Chases , Free Warrens , &c. The King by his Prerogative hath power to enfranchise an Alien , and make him a Denison , whereby he is enabled to purchase Lands and Houses , and to bear Offices . He hath the power to grant Letters of Mart or Reprisal ; to grant safe Conducts , &c. He hath at all times had the right of Purveyance or Preemption of all sorts of Victuals within the Verge , viz. Twelve miles round of the Court ; and to take Horses , Carts , Ships , or Boats , for the Carriage of his Goods , at reasonable rates . Also by Proclamation to set reasonable rates and prices upon Flesh , Fish , Fowl , Oats , Hay , &c. sold within the limits of the Verge of the Court in the time of his Progress . Debts due to the King are in the first place to be satisfied in case of Executorship and Administratorship ; and until the King's Debts be satisfied , he may protect the Debtor from the Arrest of other Creditors . He may dis●rein for the whole Rent upon one Tenant that holdeth not the whole Land : He may require the Ancestors Debt of the Heir , though not especially bound : He is not obliged to demand his Rent according to the Custome of Landlords : He may distrein where he pleaseth , and sue in any of his Courts . No Proclamation can be made but by the King. No protection for a Defendant to obstruct the course of the Law against him , if he be not one of his Majesties Menial Servants . In case of loss by Fire , or otherwise , his Majesty granteth Patents to receive the Charitable Benevolences of the people . No Forest , Chase , or Park to be made , nor Castle , Fort , or Tower to be built without his Majesties especial Licence . Where the King hath granted a Fair , with Toll to be paid , yet his Goods shall be there exempted from the said Duties of Toll . His Servants in Ordinary are priviledged from serving in any Offices that require their Attendance ; as Sheriff , Constable , Church-warden , or the like . All Receivers of Money for the King , or Accomptants to him for any of his Revenues , their Persons , Lands , Goods , Heirs , Executors , and Administrators , are at all times chargeable for the same : for Nullum tempus occurrit Regi . His Debtor hath a kind of Prerogative Remedy by a Quo minus in the Exchequer against all other Debtors , or against whom they have any cause of personal Action ; supposing that he is thereby disabled to pay the King : and in this Suit the King's Debtor being Plaintiff , hath some priviledges above others . In doubtful Cases semper praesumitur pro Rege , no Statute restraineth the King , except he be especially named therein . The quality of his Person alters the descent of Gavelkind , the Rules of joynt Tenancy : No Estoppel can bind him , nor Judgment final in a Writ of Right . Judgments entred against the King's Title , are entred with Salvo Iure Domini Regis . That if at any time the King's Counsel at Law can make out his Title better , that Jugment shall not prejudice him , which is not permitted the Subject . The King by his Prerogative may demand reasonable Ayd-money of his Subjects for the Knighting his Eldest Son at the Age of Fifteen years , and to marry his eldest Daughter at the Age of Seven years ; which Ayd is 20 s. for every Knights Fee , and as much for every 20 l. per annum in Soccage . Moreover , if the King be taken prisoner , Ayd-money is to be paid by the Subjects for his Redemption . The King upon reasonable Causes him thereunto moving , may protect any of his Subjects from Suits of Law , &c. In all Cases where the King is party , his Officers with an Arrest by force of a Process at Law , may enter and ( if any entrance be denied ) may break open the House of any man by force . A Benefice , or Spiritual Living , is not full against the King by Institution only , without Induction , although it be so against a Subject . None but the King can hold Plea of false Judgments in the Courts of his Tenants . The King by his Prerogative is Summus Regui Custos , and hath the Custody of the Persons and Estates of such , as for want of understanding cannot govern themselves , or serve the King ; that of Ideots to his own use , and that of Lunaticks to the use of the next Heir : So the Custody or Wardships of all such Infants , whose Ancestors held their Lands by Tenure in Capite , or Knights Service , were ever since the Conquest in the King , to the great honour and benefit of the King and Kingdom : But abuses , which too often happened , made the people complain thereof , which was the cause of its laying aside . His Majesty is Vl●imus Haeres Regni , and is ( as the great Ocean is of small Rivers ) the Receptacle of all Estates for want of Heirs , or by Forfeiture , Revert or Escheat to the King. All Spiritual Benefices , for want of presentation in due time by the Bishop , are elapsed to the King. All Treasure Trove ( that is Money , or Gold and Silver plate , or Bullion found , and the owners unknown ) belongs to the King : So doth all Waifs , Strays , Wrecks , not granted away by him , or any former Kings . All waste Ground or Land recovered from the Sea : All Lands of Aliens dying before Naturalization or Denization , and all other things whereof the property is not known : All Gold and Silver Mines , in whose Ground soever they are found : Royal Fish , as Whales , Sturgeons , Dolphins , &c. Royal Fowl , as Swans not mark't , and swimming at Liberty on the River , belong to the King. In the Church the King's prerogative and power is extraordinary great : He only hath the patronage of all Bishopricks ; none can be chosen but by his Conge d'Es●ire , whom he hath first nominated ; none can be consecrated Bishop , or take possession of the Revenues of the Bishoprick , without the King 's special Writ or Assent . He is Guardian or Nursing Father of the Church , which our Kings of England did so reckon amongst their principal Cares ; as in the Three and twentieth year of King Edward the First , it was alledged in a pleading , and allowed ; The King hath power to call a National or Provincial Synod ; and with the advice and consent thereof to make Canons , Orders , Ordinances and Cons●itutions to introduce into the Church what Ceremonies he shall think sit ; to re●orm and correct all Heresies , Schisms , and p●nish Contempts , &c , The King hath power not only to unite , consolidate , separate , inlarge , or contract the limits of any old Bishoprick , or other Ecclesiastical Benefice : But also by his Letters Patents may erect new Bishopricks , as Henry the Eighth did Six at one time , and the late King Charles the Martyr intended to do at St. Albans for the Honour of the first Martyr of England , and for the contracting the too large extent of the Bishoprick of Lincoln . In the 28. of Eliz. when the House of Commons would have passed Bills touching Bishops , granting Faculties , conferring Holy Orders , Ecclesiastical Censures , the Oath Ex Officio , Non-Residency , &c. The Queen being much incensed , forbade them to meddle in any Ecclesiastical Affairs , for that it belonged to her prerogative . His Majesty hath also power of Coynage of Money , of pardoning all Criminals , of dispensing with all Statutes made by him , or his Predecessors , which are Malum prohibitum , and not Malum in se. The diversity between these terms is set down in the Statute made Term. Mich. Anno 11 H. 7. 11. Thus where the Statute doth prohibit a man to coyn Money , if he do , he shall be hanged ; this is Malum prohibitum : for before the said Statute it was lawful , but not after ; and for this Evil the King may dispense : But Malum in se neither the King nor any other can dispense with . As if the King would give leave to rob on the High-ways , &c. this is void ; yet after the Fact done , the King may pardon it . So it is in Ecclesiastical Laws for conformity to the Liturgy , &c. which are Malum prohibitum ; and the King may by his Prerogative Royal as well dispense with all those penal Statutes , as with Merchants to transport Silver , Wooll , and other prohibited Commodities by Act of Parliament . The King cannot devest himself or his Successors of any part of his Royal Power , Prerogative , and Authority inherent and annext to the Crown ; nor bar his Heir of the Succession , no not by Act of Parliament ; for such an Act is void by Law. These Prerogatives do of right belong to the Crown of England , which I have collected out of the most Authentick Modern Authors . And to compleat this Chapter I shall proceed to his Superiority and Precedency . The King of England acknowledgeth no Superior but God alone ; not the Emperor , Omnem potestatem Rex Angliae in Regno suo quam Imperator vendicat in Imperio ; yet he giveth Precedency to the Emperor , Eo quod antiquitate Imperium omnia regna superare creditur . Touching our King's Supremacy before any other , these Reasons are offered ; First , Lucius , King of this Land , was the first Christian King in the World ; as also Constantine our Country-man the first Emperor that publickly planted Christianity . Secondly , The King of England is anoynted as no other King is , but France , Sicily , and Ierusalem . Thirdly , He is crowned , which honour the Kings of Spain , Portugal , Navarr , and divers other Princes have not . The honour of Precedency amongst Christian Kings is often disputed by their Ambassadors and Commissioners representative at General Councils , Diets , publick Treaties , and other Honourable Assemblies at Coronations , Congratulations in Foreign Countries , &c. which by the best Information I can get is thus stated ; As to England , next to the Imperial Ministers , the French take place , as being the largest Realm in Christendom , and most Noble , since Charles le mayne , their King , obtained the Imperial Diadem ; the second place in the Western Empire was undisputably the right of our English Kings , so enjoyed for hundreds of years , 'till Spain grown rich and proud by the addition of the Indies , claimed the priority , yet could not gain it till their Charles the Fifth was Elected Emperor ; but after his Resignation , the Controversie renewed upon the Treaty of Peace between Queen Elizabeth and Philip the Third , King of Spain at ●oloign in France , Anno 1600. Our Ambassadors were Sir Henry Nevil , Iohn Harbert , and Thomas Edmonds , Esquires ; and for Spain , Balthazer de Coniga , Ferdinando Carillo , Io. Ricardett , and Lewis Varreyken . The English challenged precedency as due to them before the Emperor Charles his time , as doth appear by Volatteram in the time of our Henry the Seventh , when the like difference being in question , 't was joyntly referred to the Pope , who adjudged to England the most Honourable place : But the Spaniards refusing to stand to that old Award , or to admit of an equality , the Treaty of Peace broke up ; neither hath any certain Resolution been hitherto taken in the matter , as ever I heard of . OF THE PRINCE . CHAP. III. THE King 's Eldest Son and Heir apparent , from the Day of his Birth , is entituled Prince , of the Latin word , quasi Principalis post Regem . The first that we read of in England was Edward , eldest Son to King Henry the Third , since which time the eldest Son of the King hath been by Patent and other Ceremonies created Prince of Wales , and Earl of Chester and Flint . By Patent also Edward the Third , in the Eleventh year of his Reign , added the Dukedom of Cornwal to the Principality of Wales ; and Anno Regni 36. he makes his eldest Son Edward the Black Prince , Prince of Aquitain , for which he did Fealty and Homage at Westminster , Sed tamen Principatum Walliae , Ducatum Cornubiae , Comitatum Cestriae & Cantii non reliquit . Walsing . fol. 172. Since the Union of England and Scotland , his Title hath been Magnae Britanniae Princeps , but ordinarily Prince of Wales . As eldest Son to the King of Scotland , he is Duke of Rothsay , and Seneschal of Scotland from his Birth : And so long as Normandy remained in the possession of the English , he had always the style of Duke of Normandy . At his Creation he is presented before the King in Princely Robes , who putteth a Coronet upon his Head , a Ring on his middle Finger , a Verge of Gold in his Hand , and his Letters Patents after they are rea● . His Mantle , which he wears in ●arliament , is once more doubled upon the sho●●●●rs than a Dukes , his Cap of State indente●●nd his Coronet , formerly of Crosses and Flower de lis , mixed . But since the happy Restauration of his Majesty it was solemnly ordered , that the Son and Heir apparent to the Crown of England shall bear his Coronet of Crosses and Flower de lis with one Arch , and in the midst a Ball and Cross , as hath the Royal Diadem . That his Royal Highness the Duke of York , and all the immediate Sons and Brothers of the Kings of England , shall use and bear their Coronets , composed of Crosses and Flower de lis only : But all their Sons respectively , having the Title of Dukes , shall bear and use their Coronets composed of Leaves only , as the Coronets of Dukes not being of the Royal Blood. Note , That by Order , not Creation , our present King was admitted Prince of Wales , had the Principality with the Earldom of Chester , &c. confirmed to him by Patent , and was allowed to hold his Court apart from the Kings . The Prince by the Common Law is reputed as the same Person with the King , and so declared by Statute temp . Hen. 8. The Civilians say , the King 's eldest Son , during his Fathers life , may be styled King by the Law of Nations , because of his so near Relation to the Crown , that if the Father die he is ipso momento Rex , though he be not crowned . A usual custome in Spain , and once allowed here to Henry , Son of King Henry the Second ; yet he holdeth his Seigniories and Principalities of the King , as Subject to him , and giveth the same respect to him as other Subjects do . He hath certain priviledges above other persons : To him it was permitted by the Statute 24 Hen. 8. cap. 13. to wear Silk of the colour of Purple , and cloth of Gold , of Tissue in his Apparel , or upon his Horse . And by the Statute 24 Ed. 3. ca. 2. Takings shall not be from henceforth made by others than the Purveyors of the King , of the Queen , and of the Prince their eldest Son : And that if any mans Purveyor make such takings , it shall be done of them as of those that do without Warrant , and the Deed adjudged as a thing done against the Peace and the Law of the Land ; and such as do not in manner aforesaid , shall be duly punished . To eschew Maintenance , and nourish Peace and Amity in all parts of the Realm , many Statutes have been made in the Reign of King Henry the Fourth , prohibiting the giving of Signs or Liveries to any but Menials ; nevertheless by the Statute 2 Hen. 4. cap. 21. it is provided that the Prince may give his honourable Liveries or Sign to the Lords , or to his Menial Gentlemen ; and that the same Lords may wear the same as if they were the King's Liveries ; and that the Menials of the Prince may also wear the same as the King's Menials . But afterwards by occasion of divers other Statutes made by sundry Kings , for the suppressing o● that enormity of Maintenance , and of the general word in them , that priviledge of the Prince was abridged , or rather taken away , therefore the Statute 12 Ed. 4. cap. 4. was made . By the Statute 21 H. 8. cap. 13. the Prince may retain as many Chaplains as he pleaseth , although all other of the Nobility ( except those of the Blood Royal ) are constrained to a certain number ; and they , or any of them , may purchase Licence and Dispensation , and take and retain two Parsonages or Benefices with Cure of Souls . By the Order of the Common Law , the King may Levy a reasonable Ayd of all his Tenants , as well of those that did hold their Lands of him by Knights Service , as in Soccage , pur faire fitz Chevalier , & pur File marrier , and the sum of Money was not in certainty . Note that the Ayd is not to be recovered before the Son be of the Age of Fifteen years , and the Daughter accomplish the Age of Seven years : Fitz. Natur. B. 28.6 . But in the King's pleasure , till by the Statute in the 25 Ed. 3. cap. 11. it was Enacted , That for the Knighting his eldest Son , and marrying his eldest Daughter as aforesaid , the Ayd following shall be demanded and levied , viz. of every Knight so holden of the King ( without mean ) 20 s. and no more ; and of every 20. l. of Land holden of the King ( without mean ) in Soccage , 20 s. and no more . And so after this rate for the Lands in Soccage ; and for Land in Tenure of Chivalry , according to the quantity of the Fee. By another Statute made in the said 25 th of Edward the Third , cap. 2. amongst other things it is declared , That to compass or imagine the death of the King 's eldest Son and Heir , is Crimen laesae Majestatis ; or if a man do violate the Wife of the King 's eldest Son and Heir , it is High Treason . And so the Statute 26 Hen. 8. cap. 13. doth declate . And so was the ancient Common Law of this Realm , and not a new Law made by the Statute , Coke 8. part 28. b. but this Statute is a Manifestation and Application of the ancient Common Law in this Case . Because the people were in ambiguity , Whether Children born in parts beyond the Sea , and out of the King's Dominions , should be able to demand any Inheritance within his said Dominions , or not ; It was declared at a Parliament holden at Westminster in the Seventeenth of King Iames , for the removing of those doubts , That les Enfants du Roy , the Children of the Kings of England , in whatsoever parts they are born in , are able , and ought to bear the Inheritance after the death of their Ancestors . Read the Statute in Coke's Seventh Part , 8. a. where you shall see , that though generally the Birth-place is observed , yet many times Legiance and Obedience without any place in the King's Dominions , may make a Subject born : For we see by Experience almost in every Parliament , that Ambassadors , Merchants , and the King's Souldiers do sue therein , in such Cases , to have their Children Naturalized , or made Denisons . And in the Articles confirmed by Parliament touching the Marriage between Philip King of Spain and Queen Mary , Anno primo Parliamenti 2. cap. 2. a special Proviso was to bar him from being Tenant by the Courtesie of the Crown , in case he should have Issue by her , and survive ; which was superfluous , because the Common Law would have denied it . For this last point see the Lord Chancellor's Speech in the Case Postnati , f. 36. But note , If an Alien Enemy come into this Realm , and his Wife , English or Stanger , be here delivered of a Child , this Child notwithstanding his Birth-place , is an Alien born , for want of Allegiance in the Parents , ibid. King Henry the Third did create Edward his eldest Son the first Prine of Wales , and did give unto him the Dominion and Dignity thereof , to be holden of him and his Heirs , Kings of England : And after that time the eldest Sons of the Kings of England have been Princes of Wales ; and as incident to the State and Dignity of a Prince , did and might make Laws and Statutes , and use Jurisdiction and Authority , as amply as any King of that Nation could do ; for Wales was a Kingdom in ancient time : but by a Statute made the Twelfth of Edward the First , Wales was incorporated and united to England , and became part thereof . Also by another Statute made 27 Hen. 8. c. 24. a general resumption of many Liberties and Franchises heretofore granted , or taken from the Crown , as the Authority to pardon Treasons , Murder , Manslaughter , and Felony ; also power to make Justices in Oyer , Justices of Assize , Justices of the Peace , Goal deliveries , and such like ; so that from thenceforth the King 's eldest Son hath only the Name and Style of Prince of Wales , but no other Jurisdiction than at the King's pleasure is permitted and granted him by his Letters Patents ; as by the tenor thereof here following made by King Henry the Eighth to Edward his Son and Heir apparent , may appear . HENRY by the Grace of God , King of England and of France , Lord of Ireland , &c. To all Archbishops , Bishops , Abbots , Priors , Dukes , Earls , Barons , Iustices , Viscounts , Governors , Ministers , and to all our Bayliffs and faithful Subjects , Greeting . Out of the Excellency of Royal Preheminence , like leaves from the Sun , so do inferior humours proceed ; neither doth the integrity of Royal Lustre and Brightness , by the natural disposition of the Light affording Light , feel any loss or detriment by such borrowed Lights ; yea , the Royal Scepter is also much the more extolled , and the Royal Throne exalted , by how much the more Nobleness , Preheminencies and Honours are under the power and command thereof . And this worthy Consideration allureth and induceth us , with desire to increase the Name and Honour of our Firstbegotten and best Beloved Son Edward , in whom we behold and see our self to be honoured , and our Royal House also , and our people subject to us ; hoping by the grace of God , by conjecture taken of his gracious future proceedings to be the more honourably strengthened , that we may with honour prevent , and with abundant grace prosecute him , who in reputation of us is deemed the same with us . Wherefore by the counsel and consent of the Prelates , Dukes , Earls , Viscounts , and Barons of our Kingdom , being in our present Parliament , We have made and created , and by these Presents do make and create him the said Edward , Prince of Wales , and Earl of Chester : And unto the same Edward do give and grant , and by this Charter have confirmed the Name , Style , Title , State , Dignity , and Honour of the said Principality and Connty , that he may therein in Governing Rule , and in Ruling direct and defend ; we say by a Garland upon his Head , by a Ring of Gold upon his Finger , and a Verge of Gold , have according to the manner invested him , to have and to hold , to him and his Heirs , the Kings of England for ever . Wherefore we will and command for us and our Heirs , that Edward our Son aforesaid shall have the Name , Style , Title , State , Dignity , and Honour of the Principality of Wales , and of the County of Chester aforesaid , unto him and his Heirs , the Kings of England for ever : These being Witnesses , the Reverend Father John , Cardinal and Archbishop of Canterbury , Primate of England , our Chancellor , and William Archbishop of York , Primate of England , Thomas Bishop of London , John Bishop of Lincoln , William Bishop of Norwich , our most well beloved Cosins Richard Earl of Warwick , Richard Earl of Salisbury , John Earl of Wiltshire , and our well beloved and faithful Ralph Cromwel Chamberlain of our House , William Falconbridge and John Stourton , Knights . Dated at our Palace at Westminster the 15th day of March , and in the year of our Reign 32. And here by the way may be observed , That in ancient time , and in the time of the English-Saxon Kings , the use was as well in pennings of the Acts of Parliament , as of the King's Letters Patents , when any Lands , Franchises , or Hereditaments did pass from the King of any Estate of Inheritance ; as also in the Creations of any man unto Honour and Dignity , the Conclusion was with the sign of the Cross in form aforesaid , his testibus , &c. But long since that form hath been discontinued ; so that at this day , and many years past , the King's Patents for Lands , Franchises , and Hereditaments do conclude with Teste me ipso . Nevertheless in all Creations of Honour and Dignity of Letters Patents , the ancient form of concluding His testibus is used at this day . And it hath been resolved by the Judges of all Acts of Parliament and Statutes which do concern the Prince , who is the Firstbegotten Son of the King , and Heir apparent to the Crown for the time being , perpetuis futuris temporibus , be such Acts whereof the Judges and all the Realm must take Cognizance , as of General Statutes : For every Subject hath interest in the King , and none of his Subjects ( who are within his Laws ) be divided from him , being he is Head and Sovereign ; so that the business and things of the King do concern all the Realm , and namely when it doth concern the Prince , the Firstbegotten Son of the King , and Heir apparent to the Crown . Although the Prince by express words hath no priviledge by the Great Charter of the Forest● , 9 Hen. 3. cap. 11. for hunting in the King's Forests or Parks , passing by them , and sent for by the King's Command ; yet the Prince is to take the benefit and advantage thereby , as well as the Earls , Bishops , or Barons , who are expressed . Crompton's Courts des Iustices de Forest , 167. In the Parliament 31 Hen. 8. cap. 10. an Act concerning the placing of King's Children and Lords in the Parliament , and other Assemblies , was amongst other things made , as followeth ; That no person or persons , of what degree , estate , or condition soever his or they be of ( except only the King's Children ) shall at any time hereafter attempt to sit , or have place on any side of the Cloth of Estate in the Parliament Chamber , whether his Majesty be there personally present , or absent . The Prince shall not find Pledges for the prosecution of any Action , and therefore shall not be amerced no more than the King or Queen should be . The Prince is a distinct person from the King ; he is a Subject , and holdeth his Principalities and Seigniories of the King , and subject to the Law of the Land as a Subject . And in token of the Prince's subjection , he doth not upon his Posie in his Arms disdain the old Saxon words [ Ich Dieu ] I serve . And there is a Case , that Glascoine Chief Justice of England , in the time of Henry the Fourth , did commit the Prince , who would have taken a Prisoner from their Bar in the King's Bench : And the Prince did humbly submit himself , and go at his Command . And this did much rejoyce the King , to see that he had a Judge so bold to administer Justice upon his Son ; and that he had a Son so gracious as to obey his Laws . The Exercises befitting Princes , whilst they are young , are Chivalry , and Feats of Arms , and to adjoyn therewith the knowledge of the Law and God : For it is the Duty and Office of a King to fight the Battels of his people , and rightly to judge them , 1 Kings 8. And the Prophet David saith , Be ye learned , you that judge the Earth . Whereto if they also would endeavour to have knowledge in the Principles and Grounds of the Laws of their own Country , which they in due time inherit , they shall be much the more enabled to govern their Subjects ; and it is a point of Wisdom in such to acknowledge , that Rex datur propter Regnum , & non Regnum propter Regem : And to move the Princes to these things , there is an excellent Book , Dialogue-wise , between a Prince ( a King's Son of this Realm ) and Sir Iohn Fortescue a Judge , entituled De laudibus Legum Angliae . Many that have been Heirs apparent to the Crown of England , ever since the Norman Conquest , have been taken away either by their natural deaths , or by violence , during the life of their Ancestors , so that they have not attained to the Crown . William , the only Son of Henry the First , was drowned in his passage from Normandy , his Father reigning . Eustace , King Stephen's only Son , died mad , to the great grief of the King his Father . William , the eldest Son of King Henry the Second , died in the Fourth year of his Age , and in the Third year of his Fathers Reign . King Henry the Second's Son , called Curt-Mantel , was in his Father's life time crowned King , by the Name of King Henry the younger , but died in the life time of his Father . Geffrey , the fourth Son of the said King , died during the Reign of Richard Coeur de Leon , his third Brother , which King Richard had no Son , and so Geffrey was Heir apparent to the Crown . King Edward the First had Issue Iohn , Henry , and Alphons , but all three died in their Childhood in their Father's life . Edward the Black Prince ( of famous memory ) eldest Son to King Edward the Third , died before his Father . Richard the Third had Issue only one Son. named Edward , who died without Issue . Arthur , the eldest Son and Heir apparent to King Henry the Seventh , died in the life time of his Father . Henry Prince of Wales , eldest Son to King Iames , also left the World before his Father . These Examples may serve as a Mirror for all succeeding Princes and others , to see how transitory the Glory of this World is ; whereof the saying of the Princely Prophet David may never be out of remembrance , Psal. 82. I have said ye are Gods , and ye are all the Children of the most High ; but ye shall die like men , and ye Princes like others . Also divers other Heirs apparent , and those that have been in possession of their Crowns , have been defeated by Usurpers : And namely Robert Duke of Normandy , eldest Son to William the Conqueror , was defeated of his Birth-right by his two younger Brethren , William Rufus and Henry , successively one after another ; and after Six and twenty years Imprisonment , having both his Eyes put out , died in the Reign of his Brother Henry . Maud , the sole Daughter of the said King Henry , was defeated of her Birth-right to the Crown by Stephen , the Son of her Fathers Sister . Arthur , the only Son and Heir of Geffrey , the fourth Son to Henry the Second , was next Heir to the Crown after the death of his Uncle Richard , the first King of that Name , who died without Issue ( his Father being dead before ) but his Uncle Iohn , Son to the said Henry the Second , defeated him not only of his right to the Kingdom , but also of his Life , and that by starving him . King Edward the Second was deposed by his eldest Son , who in the life time of his Father took upon him to be the King of England . Richard , the only Son to Edward the black Prince , and next Heir to the Crown after the death of his Grandfather King Edward the Third , was defeated both of his Crown and Life by Henry of Lancaster , Son to Iohn of Gaunt , who was but the fourth Son of King Edward the Third ; yea , although Lionel , the third Son of the said King Edward , had Issue Philip his only Daughter , who by consequence was next to the Crown before the Issue of Iohn of Gaunt ; which Philip was married to Edward Mortimer Earl of March , from whom the House of York , by the name of Edward the Fourth , are lineally descended : For William of Hatfield , second Son to King Edward the Third , died young without Issue . King Henry the Sixth , having but one Son , named Edward , he was slain in the life time of his Father , and the King himself deposed by Edward the Fourth , and murthered in the Tower : So the Act of Parliament made between them for an indented Peace , exemplified in our Books of Law. Edward and Richard , the two only Sons to Edward the Fourth , after the descent of the Crown , and before the Coronation of Prince Edward , were both of them murthered in the Tower by their Uncle , Richard Duke of Glocester , who thereupon took upon him the Crown , although there were remaining alive divers Daughters of the late King Edward the Fourth . During these troublesome and tragical times , each of the Kings prevailing attainted the other their Adversary of High Treason by Act of Parliament , intending utterly to disable them , and make them to be incapable by the Law of the Crown . And it is a matter worthy of Observation , how the Hand of God did not forget to pursue Revenge in these Cases ; for William Rufus died without Issue ; Henry his Brother had a Son and one Daughter , but his Son died an Infant , and his only Daughter Maud was defeated of her Birthright by Stephen . King Iohn , who defeated Arthur his Nephew of his Birthright and Life , lived in continual Wars , never enjoyed Peace , but was driven to submit himself , and subject his Kingdom to the Pope . In his time Normandy , which King William the First brought with him , and which in five Descents continued in actual Obedience of the Kings of England , was in the sixth year of his Reign lost , until King Henry the Fifth recovered it again , and left it to King Henry the Sixth , who again lost it in the Eight and twentieth year of his Reign , as doth appear both in our Chronicles , and in our Books of Law. Concerning the violence done to King Henry the Second , albeit Edward his Son enjoyed a long and prosperous Reign ; yet his Successor , King Richard , was in the like violent manner imprisoned , deprived , and put to death . King Henry the Fourth , by whom King Richard was deposed , did exercise the chiefest Acts of his Reign in executing those , who conspired with him against King Richard : His Son had his Vertue well seconded by Felicity , during whose Reign , by the means of Wars in France , the humour against him was otherwise imployed : But his next Successor , King Henry the Sixth , was in the very like manner deprived , and together with his young Son Edward , imprisoned and put to death by King Edward the Fourth . This Eward died not without suspicion of poyson ; and after his death , his two Sons were likewise disinherited , imprisoned , and murthered by their cruel Uncle , the Duke of Glocester , who being both a Tyrant and Usurper , was justly encountred by King Henry the Seventh in the Field : So infallible is the Law of Justice in revenging Cruelties and Injuries , not always observing the present time wherein they are done ; but often calling them into reckoning , when the Offenders retain least memory of them . But as the saying is , Ex malis moribus bonae leges oriuntur ; so their Tragical and Miserable Combustions have occasioned , that the Law hath established more certain Resolutions in all these cases and pretences against the right Heir to the Crown than before . For first , though a common Opinion was conceived , that a Conqueror might freely dispose of the Succession of that Estate , which he had obtained by the purchase of his Sword ( which was the Title pretended for William Rufus ) yet now in our Books this difference is taken for Law , viz. between the Conquest of a Kingdom from a Christian King , and the Conquest of a Kingdom from an Infidel : For if a King come to a Christian Kingdom by Conquest , seeing he hath Vitae & necis potestatem , he may at his pleasure alter and change the Laws of that Kingdom ; but until he doth make an alteration thereof , the ancient Laws do stand ; and therefore the case of Rufus , the ancient Law of this Realm being , That the eldest Son should inherit , and that a King in possession cannot devise the same by his last Will , or by other Act ; therefore the said William Rufus was no other than a Usurper . But if a Christian King should Conquer a Kingdom from an Infidel , and being then under his subjection , there ipso facto the Laws of the Infidels are abrogated ; for that they be not only against Christianity , but against the Law of God and Nature , mentioned in the Decalogue : and in that case , until certain Laws be established amongst them , the King by himself , and such Judges as he shall appoint , shall judge them and their causes according to natural Equity , in such sort as Kings in ancient times did within their Kingdoms , before any certain municipal Laws were given . And if a King have a Kingdom by Title of Descent there , seeing by the Laws of that Kingdom he doth inherit the Kingdom , he cannot change those Laws of himself , without consent of Parliament . Also if a King have a Christian Kingdom by Conquest , as King Henry the Second had Ireland , after that King Iohn had given unto them ( being under his Obedience and Subjection ) the Laws of England for the Government of that Country , no succeeding King could alter the same without Parliament . In Succession of Kings a question hath been , Whether the King , who hath had Sons both before and after he came to the Crown , which of them should succeed , he that was born before , as having the prerogative of his Birthright ; or he that was born after ? And for each Reasons and Examples have not been wanting . For Xerxes , the Son of Darius , King of Persia , being the eldest Son after the enthroning his Father , carried away the Empire from his Brother Arthemones or Artobazanes , who was born before his Father came to the Royal Possession thereof . So Arceses , the Son of another Darius , born in the time of his Fathers Empire , carried away the Garland from his Brother Cyrus , born before his Father came to the Empire . So Lewis , Duke of Millain , born after his Father was Duke , was preferred to the Dukedom before his Brother Galiasius , born before the Dukedom . But notwithstanding these Examples , and the Opinion of sundry Doctors to the contrary , common use of Succession in these latter days hath been to the contrary , and that not without good reason ; for that it is not meet that any that hath right to any Succession by the prerogative of their Birthright ( such as all elder Brothers have ) should be put by the same . And this was the pretence of Henry the First against Robert his eldest Brother . Also sundry Contentions have risen in Kingdoms between the Issue of the eldest Son of the King dying before his Father , and the second Brother surviving , who should Reign after the death of the Father ; the Nephew challenging the same unto him by the Title of his Fathers Birthright , and by way of Representation , Cok. part 3. cap. 4. the other claiming as eldest Son to his Father at the time of his death : Upon which Title , in old time , there grew a Controversie between Arcus the Son of Arrotatus , eldest Son of Cleomenes King of Lacedemonia , and Cleomenes second Son of Cleomenes , Uncle to the said Arcus : But upon debate of the matter , the Senate gave their Sentence for Arcus against Cleomenes . Besides , Enominus King of Lacedemon having two Sons , Polydectes and Licurgius , Poyldectes dying without Children , Licurgius succeeded in the Kingdom ; but after he had understood that Polydectes Widow had a Child , he yielded the Crown to him ; wherein he dealt far more religiously , than either did King Iohn , or King Richard the Third : For King Iohn , upon the like pretence , not only put by Arthur Plantaginet , his eldest Brother's Son , from the Succession of the Kingdom ; but also most unnaturally took away his life And King Richard the Third , to come to the Crown , did most barbarously , not only slay his two innocent Nephews , but also defamed his Mother in publishing to the World , that the late King his Brother was a Bastard . Our Stories do obscurely note , that Controversie of like matter had like to have grown between King Richard the Second , and Iohn of Gaunt his Uncle ; and that he had procured the Counsel fo sundry great Learned Men to this purpose : but that he found the hearts of divers Noblemen of this Kingdom , and especially the Citizens of London to be against him ; whereupon he desisted from his intended purpose , and acknowledged his Nephews Right . And the reason of the Common Law of England is notable in this point , and may be collected out of the ancient Authors of the same ; Glanvile lib. 7. cap. 1. Bracton lib. 7. c. 30. and by Brittan , fol. 119. For they say , Whosoever is Heir to another , aut est haeres jure proprietatis , as the eldest Son shall inherit only before his Brothers ; aut jure representationis : as where the eldest Son dieth in the life of his Father , his Issue shall inherit before the youngest Son ; for though the youngest sit magis propinquus , yet jure representationis the Issue of the eldest Son shall inherit , for that he doth represent the person of his Father ; And as Bracton saith , jus proprietatis , which his Father had by his Birthright , doth descend unto him : aut jure propinquitatis , ut propinqui jus excludit remotum , & remotus remotiorem : aut jure sanguinis . And yet Glanvile , Lord Chief Justice under King Henry the Second , seemeth to make this questionable here in England , Who should be preferred , the Uncle or the Nephew . Also it hath been resolved for Law , That the possession of the Crown purgeth all defects , Hen. 1. fol. 3. and so doth Vlpian the Civilian determine . And this is one of the three Reasons alledged , wherefore by the policy of our Law the King is a Body Politick , thereby to avoid the attainder of him that had right to the Crown , Coke's seventh part , 12. a. lest in the interim there should be an interregnum , which the Law will not suffer , because of the manifold Incumbrances thereof : For it hath been clearly resolved by all the Judges of the Land , That presently , by the descent of the Crown , the next Heir is compleatly and absolutely King , without any essential Ceremony or Act to be done , ex postfacto ; And that Coronation is but a Royal Ornament and outward Solemnization of the Descent . And this appeareth evidently by abundance of Presidents and Book-Cases . Let us take one or two Examples in a Case so clear for all : King Henry the Sixth was not crowned till the Eighth year of his Reign , and yet divers men before his Coronation were attainted of Treason , Felony , and the like Crimes ; and he was as absolute and compleat a King for matters of Judicature , Grants , &c. before his Coronation , as he was after . Queen Mary reigned three moneths before she was crowned , in which space the Duke of Northumberland and others were condemned and executed for Treason which they had committed before she was Queen . And upon this reason there is a Maxim in the Common Law , Rex nunquam moritur , in respect of his ever living and never dying politique capacity . In France also the same Custome hath been observed ; and for more assurance it was expresly enacted under Charles the Fifth , That after the death of any King , his eldest Son should immediately succeed ; for which cause the Parliament Court of Paris doth accompany the Funeral Obsequies of those that have been their Kings , not in mourning attire , but in Scarlet , the true Ensign of the never dying Majesty of the Crown : Nevertheless certain Cities in France , not long since , alledged for themselves , that because they had not reputed Henry the Fourth for their King , and professed Allegiance unto him , they were not to be adjudged Rebels ; Whereupon the chief Lawyers of our Age did resolve , That forasmuch as they were original Subjects , even Subjects by Birth , they were Rebels in bearing Arms against their King , although they had never professed Allegiance unto him . To conclude this Chapter , I shall give you a View of the Ceremonies of the Creation of Henry Prince of Wales , which began on the Thirtieth of May , 1610. as followeth ; The Prince accompanied with divers young Noblemen , together with his own Servants , rode from his Court at St. Iames's to Richmond , where he reposed that night ; on the next day the Lord Mayor , Aldermen , with the several Companies in their Barges attended his Highness about Barn Elmes , where he was entertained with a Banquet , and in other places with Speeches by a Neptune upon a Dolphin , and a Sea Goddess upon a Whale , &c. His Highness landing at Whitehall , was received by the Officers of his Majesties Houshold , according to order , viz. by the Knight Marshal and the Serjeant Porter ; In the Hall by the Treasurer and Comptroller of the Houshold ; in the great Chamber by the Captain of the Guard , and in the presence Chamber by the Lord Chamberlain ; from whence he went into the Privy Chamber , where the King and Queen met him ; the Saturday after was taken up with the usual Ceremonies of making Knights of the Bath to attend his Highness at his Creation , which were Five and twenty in number . Upon Monday following these Knights of the Bath met in the Queens Closet , where they put on long Purple Satten Robes , lined with white Taffata , and a Hood like a Batchelor of Law about their Necks ; and in a Barge prepared for them went before the Prince to Westminster Palace , where his Highness landed , and proceeded to his Creation thus : First the Heralds . Next the Knights of the Bath . Then the Lords that were imployed in several Services . Garter King at Arms , bearing the Letters Patents . The Earl of Sussex the Robes of Purple Velvet . The Earl of Huntington the Train . The Earl of Cumberland the Sword. The Earl of Rutland the Ring . The Earl of Derby the Rod. The Earl of Shrewsbury the Cap and Coronet . The Earl of Nottingham and Privy Seal supported his Highness , being in his Surcoat only , and bareheaded , to the Parliament Chamber . The King was already set with all the Lords Spiritual and Temporal in their Robes of State , all the Knights and Burgesses of the lower House present ; as also the Foreign Ambassadors , the great Ladies of the Realm , and the Lord Mayor and Aldermen of London seated upon Scaffolds . The Procession entring in manner aforesaid , made three several low Reverencies to his Majesty ; and when they came to the Throne , Garter King at Arms kist the Letters Patents , and gave them to the Lord Chamberlain , who presented them to the King , who delivered them to the Earl of Salisbury , Principal Secretary of State , who read them , the Prince kneeling all the while before the King ; and at the words accustomed , the King put on the Robe , the Sword , the Cap and Coronet , the Rod , and the Ring . The Patent being read , the King kist him on the Cheek , and the Earl Marshal , with the Lord Chamberlain , placed him in his Parliament Seat , viz. on the left hand of the King ; which Ceremony being ended , they returned to the Palace Bridge in manner as followeth . First the Masters of the Chancery , the King's Council and others ; then the Officers of Arms , the Knights of the Bath ; next twenty Trumpets before them ; then the Judges ; and after them all the Members of Parliament in order , the Barons , Viscounts , Earls , and Marquisses having Coronets on their Heads ; then Norroy and Clarenceaux King at Arms going next before the Lord Treasurer and the Lord Chancellor ; then Garter next before the Sword ; and then the Prince and King. They took Barge at the Palace Stairs , and landed at Whitehall Bridge , where the Officers at Arms , the Members of Parliament , and the Lords being first landed , attended the King and Prince , and went before into the Hall , and so into his Majestie 's Presence Chamber , whence the Prince descended again into the Hall to Dinner , himself seated at the upper end of a Table , accompanied with the Lords that attended him at his Creation , who sate on both sides of the Table with him . At another Table on the left hand sate the Knights of the Bath in their Robes along one side , attended by the King's Servants . At the second Course , Garter with the Heralds came to the Prince's Table , and after due reverence , proclaimed the King's Style with three Largesses , viz. King of England , Scotland , France , and Ireland , Defender of the Faith , &c. And then proclaimed the Prince's Titles , viz. Prince of Wales , Duke of Cornwall and Rothsay , Earl of Rothsay , Earl of Chester , and Knight of the Garter , with two Largesses : Then with Feasting , Masques , and all sort of Courtly Gallantry , that joyful Creation of the Prince ended . Although at present we have no Prince of Wales , yet I shall give you the Badge or Armorial Ensign of Honour appropriate unto them , which is as it is here depincted . OF DUKES . CHAP. IV. THE Title and Degree of a Duke hath been of ancienter standing in the Empire , and other Countries , than amongst us ; for the first English Duke was Edward the black Prince , created Duke of Cornwal by his Father King Edward the Third ; by which Creation , according to the Tenure of his Patent , the Firstborn Sons of the Kings of England are Dukes of Cornwall : Nor is there any Creation required for the said Honour , although there is for Prince of Wales . A Duke is said to be so called à Ducendo , from leading ; being at the first always a Leader of an Army Imperial or Regal , and was so chosen in the Field , either by casting of Lots , or by common Voice ; and the Saxons called this Leader an Hertzog : but now , and for some time past , it is a Dignity given by Kings and Princes to men of great Blood and excellent Merit . In some Countries , at this day , the Soveraign Princes are called Dukes ; as the Duke of Savoy , Duke of Muscovy , Duke of Saxony , Duke of Florence , and the like . All Noblemen at their Creation have two Ensigns , to signifie two Duties , viz. their Heads are adorned ad consulendum Regem & Patriam in tempore pacis , and they are girt with Swords , ad defendendum Dominum Regem , & Patriam in tempore belli . The Chapeau or Head-attire ( saith Chassanaeus ) Dukes were accustomed to wear in token of Excellency , it is of a Scarlet Colour , lined or doubled Ermin . And now Marquisses , Earls , and Viscounts plead Custome for the use thereof , as also for Coronets ; which his Majesty King Charles the Second hath also granted Barons to wear , but with due difference , as is also in their Robes , which may appear by the Portraiture of the said Degrees here lively set forth . His Sword is girt about him , and his short Cloak or Mantle over his Shoulders is guarded with four Guards ; his Coronet is Gold , the Cap Crimson , doubled Ermin , but not indented , as those of the Blood Royal are ; and the Verge which he holds in his hand is also of Gold. Dukes of the Royal Line or Blood are reputed as Arch-Dukes , and are to have their Coronets composed of Crosses and Flower delis , as other Dukes . A Duke tantùm shall take place before any Lord , that is both Marquis and Earl ; but a Duke that is both a Marquis and Earl , shall precede him . The Dukes , Marquisses , and Earls at their Creations have a Sword put over their Shoulders , or girt about them , which the Viscounts and Barons have not . A Duke may have in all places ou● of the King 's or Princes presence a Cloth of Estate , hanging down within half a yard of the Ground ; so may his Dutchess , who may have her Train born up by a Baroness : And no Earl , without permission from him , ought to wash with a Duke . The Effigies of the Most Noble , George Duke , Marquess , & Earle of Buckingham , Earle of Coventry , Viscount Villers , Baron of Whaddon , & Knight of the most Noble order of the Garter . & a. R. While sculp : His Royall Highness Iames Duke of Yorke and Albany , Knight of the most noble order of the Garter , sole Brother , to his sacred Majesty King Charles the second & coet. The most Illustrious Prince Rupert , Count Palatine of the Rhine , Duke of Bavaria , and Duke of Cumberland , Earle of Holderness , Governor of Windsor-Castle , Lord Leivtenant of Ber●shire , Knight of the Garter , Nephew to the late King of blessed memory , and one of his Ma ●●es . most Honourable privy Councell &c ● . The Right Noble Henry Duke of Norfolk , Earle of Arundell , Surrey , Norwich & Earle Marshall of England , Baron Howard , Fitz-Allen , Matravers , Mawbrey Seagrave , Bruce● Clu●n , Oswalds tree & Castle Riseing The Right Noble Francis Seumour , Duke of Somerset , Marquess & Earle of Hertford Viscount Beauchamp , & Baron Seymour &ct. The Right Noble George Duke , Marquess & Earle of Buckingham . Earle of Coventrey , Viscount Villiers . ●●ron of Whaddon , & Knight of the most noble order of the Garter &ct. The Rt. Noble Christopher Duke of Albemarle . Earle of Toringto● Baron Monck of Potheridge , Beauchamp & Teys , Kt. of ye. most noble order of ye. Garter , Lord Leivtenant of Devon-shire & Essex . one of the Gentlemen of his matys Bedchamber & one of ye. Lords of his most honble . privy Coun●● The Right Noble Iames Duke of No●●●uth & Buccleuth , Earle of Doncaster , & Dalkeith Baron of Askedale Te●d●l● & Whitch●●●●●en 〈…〉 Chamberlaine of Scotland . Mas●●r of his Ma ● . horse , & Captain of his life Guard , Gouernor of Hull Lord Leivtenant of ye. East Rideing of Yo●k-shire , Chancellor of ye. Vniversity of Cambridge , Knight of ye. Garter & one of ye. Lords of his matys . most honble . privy Councell . &ct. The Right Noble William Cavendish . Duke , Marquess & Earle of Newcas● Earle of Ogle . Viscount Mansfield , Baron Ogle , Bertram & Bolesmere . Kt of th● Garten Ld. Leiutenant of Nottinghamshire , Gent : of his matys . Bedchamber , Iustice in Ire of all his matys . Parks ; fforests and Chases Northwards of Trent , & one of ye. Lords of his matys . most honble . privy Councell & ● The Right Noble Charles Fitz-Roy Duke of Southampton Earle of Chichester , Baron of Newbury . Knight of the Garter and heyre in Succession to the Dutchy of Cleaveland & c● The Right Noble Charles Lennox , Duke of Richmond and Lennox , Earle of March , and Darneley , Baron of Settrington and Tarbolton &ct. The Right Noble Henry Fitz-Roy , Duke of Grafton , Earle of Euston Viscount Ipswich , and Baron Sudbury . & ●● A Duke hath the Title of Grace ; and being written unto is styled , Most High , Potent , and Noble Prince . And Dukes of the Royal Blood are styled , Most High , most Mighty , and Illustrious Princes . The younger Sons of Kings are by courtesie styled Princes by birth , but have their Titles of Duke , Marquiss , &c. from Creation ; The Daughters are styled Princesses : and the Title of Royal Highness is given to all the King's Children , both Sons and Daughters . The form of a Patent of the Duke of York , tempore Iacobi . JACOBUS , &c. To all Archbishops , Bishops , Dukes , Marquisses , Earls , Viscounts , Barons , Iustices , Knights , Governors , Ministers , and to all Bailiffs and faithful Subjects , Greeting . Whereas oftentimes we call to mind how many and innumerable Gifts , and what excellent Benefits that Great Maker of all Goodness ( of his own benignity and clemency ) hath abundantly bestowed upon us , who not only by his power hath consociated divers and mighty Lyons in firm Peace , without any strife ; but also hath amplified and exalted the Bounds and Limits of our Government , by his unspeakable Providence , above our Progenitors , with an indissolvable Conjunction of the ancient and famous Kingdoms , in the right of Blood , under our Imperial Diadem . In regard whereof we cannot boast , but most willingly acknowledge our fruitfulness and Issue plentifully adorned with the gifts of Nature , which he hath vouchsafed unto us , because in truth in the Succession of Children a mortal man is made as it were immortal ; neither unto any mortal men , at leastwise unto Princes not acknowledging Superiors , can any thing happen in worldly causes more happy and acceptable , than that their Children should become notable in all vertuous Goodness , Manners , and Increase of Dignity , so as they which excel other men in Nobleness and Dignity , endowments of Nature , might not be thought of others to be exceeded : Hence it is that we ( that great goodness of God , which is shewed unto us in our felicity not to pass in silence ; or to be thought not to satisfie the Law of Nature , whereby we are chiefly provoked to be well affected and liberal to those in whom we behold our Blood to begin to flourish ) coveting with great and fatherly affection , that the perpetual memory of our Blood , with Honour and increase of Dignity , and all praise may be affected , our well beloved Son , Charles Duke of Albony , Marquis of Ormond , Count of Ross , and Lord of Ardmannoth , our second begotten Son , in whom the Regal form and beauty worthy Honour , and other gifts of Vertue , do now in the best hopes shine in his tender years , We erect , create , make and ordain , and to him the Name , Style , State , Title , and Dignity , and Authority , and Honour of the Duke of York do give , to him that Name , with the Honour to the same belonging and annexed , by the girding of the Sword , Cap , and Cirtlet of Gold put upon his Head , and the delivery of a Golden Verge , we do really invest , To have and to hold the same Name , Style , State , Dignity , Authority , and Honour of the Duke of York unto the aforesaid Charles our second begotten Son , and to the Heirs male of his Body lawfully begotten for ever . And that the aforesaid Charles our second begotten Son , according to the decency and state of the said Name of Duke of York , may more honourably carry himself ; we have given and granted , and by this our present Charter , we confirm for us and our Heirs unto the aforesaid Duke and his Heirs for ever , out of Farms , Issues , Profits , and other Commodities whatsoever coming out of the County of York , by the hands of the Sheriff of the said County for the time being , at the times of Easter and Michaelmas by even portions . For that express mention of other Gifts and Grants by us unto the said Duke before time , made in these Presents , doth not appear notwithstanding these being Witnesses ; The most excellent and most beloved Henry our Firstbegotten Son , Ulrick Duke of Hellet , Brother of the Queen our beloved Wife , and the Reverend Father in Christ Richard Archbishop of Canterbury , Primate and Metropolitan of all England , and also our beloved and faithful Counsellor , Thomas Lord Elsmere our Chancellor of England , Thomas Earl of Suffolk , Chamberlain of our Houshold , and our dear Cosin , Thomas Earl of Arundel , our welbeloved Cosins and Counsellors Henry Earl of Northumberland , Edward Earl of Worcester , Master of our Horse , George Earl of Cumberland , and also our welbeloved Cosins , Henry Earl of Southampton , William Earl of Pembroke , and also our welbeloved Cosins and Counsellors , Charles Earl of Devonshire , Master of our Ordinance , Henry Earl of Northampton , Warden of the Cinque Ports , John Earl of Warwick , Robert Viscount Cranborne our Principal Secretary , and our well-beloved and faithful Counsellor , Edward Lord Zouch , President of our Council within the Principality and Marches of Wales , and also our welbeloved and trusty Robert Lord Willoughby of Eresby , William Lord Mounteagle , Gray Lord Chandois , William Lord Compton , Francis Lord Norris , Robert Lord Sidney our welbeloved and faithful Counsellor , William Lord Knowles Treasurer of our Houshold , and our welbeloved and faithful Counsellor George Dunbar , Lord of Barwick , Chancellor of our Exchequer , Edward Bruce of Kinloss , Master of the Rolls of our Chancery , and also our welbeloved and faithful Thomas Eareskine of Birketon , Captain of our Guard , James Lord Barmermoth , and others . Given by our Hand at our Palace at Westminster , in the Second year of our Reign of England , &c. King Edward the Third , in the third year of his Reign , by his Charter in Parliament , and by Authority of Parliament did create Edward his eldest Son , called the black Prince , Duke of Cornwal not only in Title , but cum feodo with the Dutchy of Cornwal , as by the Letters Patents may appear in Coke's Eighth Part in the Pleadings , Habendum & tenendum eidem Duci , & ipsius , & haeredum suorum , Regum Angliae , filiis Primogenitis , & dicti loci Ducibus , in Regno Angliae ei haereditarie successuris : So that he who is hereditable must be Heir apparent to the King of England , and of such a King who is Heir to the said Prince Edward , and such a one shall inherit the said Dukedom ; which manner of limitation of Estate was short and excellent , varying from the ordinary Rules of the Common Law , touching the framing of any Estate of Inheritance in Fee-simple , or Fee-tayl ; and nevertheless , by the Authority of Parliament , a special Fee-simple is in that case only made , as by Judgment may appear in the Book aforesaid , fol. 27. and 27 Ed. 3.41 . b. And ever since that Creation , the said Dukedom of Cornwall hath been the peculiar Inheritance of the King 's eldest Son , during the life of the King his Father , so that he is ever Dux natus , non creatus ; and the Duke at the very time of his Birth is taken to be of full and perfect Age , so that he may send that day for his Livery of the said Dukedom . And the said black Prince was the first Duke of England after the Conquest : For though Bracton , who made his Book in the Reign of King Henry the Third , saith , & sunt sub rege Duces ( as appeareth ) that place is to be understood of the ancient Kings before the Conquest : For in Magna Charta , which was made in the Ninth of King Henry the Third , we find not the name Duke amongst the Peers and Nobles there mentioned ; for seeing the Norman Kings themselves were Dukes of Normandy for a great while , they adorned none with this Honour . And the eldest Son of every King , after his Creation , was Duke of Cornwall : as for example ; Henry of Monmouth , eldest Son of King Henry the Fourth , Henry of Windsor , eldest Son of King Henry the Fifth , Edward of Westminster , eldest Son of King Edward the Fourth , Arthur of Winchester , eldest son of King Henry the Seventh , and Edward of Hampton , first Son of King Henry the Eighth . But Richard of Burdeaux , who was the first Son of Edward the black Prince , was not Duke of Cornwall by force of the said Creation : For albeit , after the death of his Father he was Heir apparent to the Crown ; yet because he was not the Firstbegotten Son of a King ( for his Father died in the life of King Edward the Third ) the said Richard was not within the limitation of the Grant and Creation by Authority of Parliament made in the Eleventh of King Edward aforesaid ; and therefore to supply that defect , in the Fifth of Edward the Third , he was created Duke of Cornwall by special Charter . Elizabeth , eldest Daughter of King Edward the Fourth , was not a Dutchess of Cornwall , although she was the Firstbegotten Daughter of Edward the Fourth ; for the Limitation is to the First-begotten Son. Henry the Eighth was not in the life of his Father King Henry the Seventh , after the death of his eldest Brother Arthur , Duke of Cornwall , by force of the said Creation ; for although he was sole Heir apparent , yet he was not his eldest begotten Son. And the Opinion of Stamford , a Learned Judge , hath been , That he shall have within his Dukedom of Cornwall the King's Prerogative , because it is not severed from the Crown after the form as it is given ; for none shall be Inheritor thereof but the King 's of the Realm : For example ; whereas by Common Law , if a man hold divers Mannors , or other Lands or Tenements of divers Lords , all by Knights Service , some part by Priority and ancient Feoffment , and other Land by Posterity and a later Feoffment , and the Tenant so seized dieth , and his Son and Heir within Age , in this case the custody and wardship of the Body , and his marriage may not be divided amongst all the Lords , but one of them only shall have right unto it ( because the Body of a man is intire ) . And therefore the Law doth say , That the Lord , of whom some part of those Lands are holden by Priority , and by the same Tenure of Chivalry , shall have it , except the King be any of the Lords ; for then though the Tenant did purchase that Land last , yet after his death the King shall be preferred before any of the other Lords of whom the Tenant did hold the Priority . And so shall the Duke of Cornwall in the same Case have the Prerogative , if his Tenant die , holding of him but by posterity of Feoffment for any Tenure of his Dutchy of Cornwall , although the same Duke is not seized of any particular Estate , whereof the Reversion remaineth in the King ; for the Prince is seized in Fee of his Dukedom , as beforesaid . Iohn of Gaunt , the fourth Son of King Edward the Third , took to Wife Blanch , Daughter and Heir of Henry Duke of Lancaster , who had Issue Henry King of England ; so that the said Dutchy of Lancaster did come unto the said Henry by descent from the party of his Mother ; and being a Subject , he was to observe the Common Law of the Realm in all things concerning his Dutchy . For if he would depart in Fee with any thereof , he must have made Livery and Seisin ; or if he had made a Lease for life , reserving Rent with a Re-entry for default of payment , and the Rent happen to be behind , the Duke might not enter without making his Demand ; or if he had alienated any part thereof whilst he was within Age , he might defeat the Purchaser for that Cause ; and if he would grant a Reversion of an Estate for life or years in being , there must also be Attornment , or else the Grant doth not take effect . But after that he had deposed King Richard the Second , and did assume the Royal Estate , and so had conjoyned his Natural Body in the Body Politick of the King of this Realm , and so was become King ; then the possession of the Dutchy of Lancaster was in him as King , but not as Duke , which degree of Dignity was swallowed up in that of the King ; for the lesser must always give place to the greater . And likewise the Name of the Dutchy , and the Franchises , Liberties , and Jurisdictions thereof , when in the King's Hands , were by the Common Law extinct ; and after that time the possessions of the Dutchy of Lancaster could not pass from Henry the Fourth by Livery of Seisin ; but by his Letters Patents under the Great Seal , without Livery of Seisin , and with Attornment . And if he make a Lease for Life , being Duke , reserving a Rent with a Re-entry for default of payment ; and after his Assumption of the Crown , his Rent happen to be unpaid , he might Re-enter without Demand ; for the King is not bound to such personal Ceremonies as his Subjects are . Therefore to have the said Dutchy to be still a Dutchy with the Liberties to the same , as it was be●ore , and to alter the order and degree of the Lands of the Dutchy from the Crown ; the said King Henry the Fourth made a Charter by Authority of Parliament , which is entituled Charta Regis Hen. 4. de separatione Lancastriae à corona authoritate Parliamenti Anno Regni sui primo , as by the Tenor thereof may appear . And so by Authority of that Parliament , the said Dutchy , with all the Franchises and Liberties was meerly resigned from the Crown , and from the Ministers and Officers thereof , and from the Order , to pass by such Conveyance which the Law did require in the possessions of the Crown . But now the possessions of the Dutchy by force of the said Statute , stood divided from the Crown , and ought to be demeaned and ordered , and pass as they did before Henry the Fourth was King ; yet there is no Clause in the Charter which doth make the person of the King ( who hath the Dutchy ) in any other Degree than it was before . But things concerning his pleasure shall be in the same estate as they were before such separation : insomuch , as if the Law before the Charter , by Authority of Parliament , adjudged the person of the King always of full Age , having regard unto his Gifts , as well of the Lands which he doth inherit in the right of his Crown , or Body Politick , it shall be so adjudged for the Dutchy Land after the said Statute ; for the Statute doth go and reach unto the Estate , Order , and Condition of the Lands of the Dutchy , but doth not extend unto the person of the King , who hath the Lands in points touching his person . Neither doth that distinguish , or alter the preheminences which the Law doth give to the person of the King : For if King Henry the Fourth , after the said Act had made a Lease , or other Grant of parcel of the Dutchy , by the Name of Henry Duke of Lancaster only , it had been void ; for it should have been made in the Name of Henry the Fourth , King of England . And thus stood the Dutchy of Lancaster severed from the Crown , all the Reign of Henry the Fourth , Henry the Fifth , and Henry the Sixth , being politickly made for the upholding of the Dutchy of Lancaster , their true and ancient Inheritance ; however the right Heir to the Crown might , in future time , obtain his right thereunto ( as it happened in King Edward the Fourth's time : ) but after the said King Edward obtained his right unto the Crown , in Parliament he attainted Henry the Sixth , and appropriated and annexed the said Dutchy again to the Crown , as by the Statute thereof made in the first of the King's Reign it doth appear . By which Statute three things were ordained : First , The County Palatine of Lancaster was again established : Secondly , He did invest it in the Body Politick of the King 's of this Realm : And thirdly , He did divide it from the order of the Crown Land. And in this form it continued until Henry the Seventh , who forthwith ( being descended from the House of Lancaster ) did separate it only in Order and Government from the Crown , and so it continueth at this day . Ceremonies to be observed in the Creation of a Duke . AT the Creation of a Duke he must have on him his Surcoat and Hood , and should be led between two Dukes , if there be any present , if not , a Marquiss or two , and for want of either , an Earl ; somewhat before him , on the right hand , shall go on Earl which shall bear a Cap of Estate with the Coronet in it ; and on the other side shall also go an Earl which shall bear the Golden Rod ; and before the Duke that is to be created should go a Marquiss , or one of the greatest Estate , to bear the Sword ; and before him an Earl to bear the Mantle or Robe of Estate lying on his Arms. And all these Nobles that do Service must be in their Robes of Estate . His Title is proclaimed twice , and the Largess thrice . The Effigies of the most Noble CHARLES PAULET MARQUESS of WINCHESTER EARLE of Wiltsh : And BARON St. IOHN of Basing . &ct. R. White Sculp : The most honble : Charles Paulet Mar●quess of Minchester Earle of Miltshire Baron St Iohn of Basing & ● The most honble : Henry Somerset● Marquess & Earle of Worcest●●● Ld. Her●ert Baron of Chipstom , Raglan , & Gomer , Ld. President ● Ld● Leivtenant of Wales , and the Marches , L d Leivtenant of 〈◊〉 Countyes of Glocester , Hereford , & Monmouth , & of the 〈◊〉 & County of Bristoll ; Knight of the most noble order of the G●●te● & one of the Lords of his matys . most honble : privy Counc●ll● The most hono rble . Henry Rerrepont , Marqu●ss of Dorchester , Earle of Kingston upon Hull● Viscount Nemarke , Ld. Rerrepont , Maunvers , & Herris , & one of the Lords of his matys . most honorble● Priuy Councel & c● . OF MARQUISSES CHAP. V. A Marquiss , which by the Saxons is called Marken-Reue , and signifieth a Governor or Ruler of the Marches , hath the next place of Honour to a Duke . This Title came to us but of late days ; for the first was Robert Vere , who was created Marquiss of Dublin by King Richard the Second , and from that time it became to be a Title of Honour ; for in former time those that Governed the Marches were commonly called Lord Marchers , and not Marquisses . After the Normans had conquered this Land , it was by them carefully observed , as a matter of great moment , to place upon the Confines and Borders of the Britains ( and those not then subdued ) men of much Valour ; such that were not only sufficient to encounter the Inrodes and Invasions of the Enemy , but also ready upon all Occasions to make onset upon them for the enlarging their Conquest . These men thus placed were of high Blood and Reputation amongst their Countrey-men , the Normans , and in whose Faith the Conqueror reposed special Trust and Confidence : And therefore in their Territories given unto them to hold , their Tenures were devised to be very special , and of great importance and honour , enriched with Name and Priviledges of Earl of Chester ; and so the North-border of Wales created to a County Palatine ; and the Barons of the middle part of the South Marches were adorned in a manner with a Palatine Jurisdiction , having a Court of Chancery , and Writs only amongst themselves pleadable , to the intent that their Attendance might not thence be drawn for the prosecuting of Controversies or Quarrels in the Law. And as for the other part of the South Marches , they seemed to be sufficiently fenced with the River Severn and the Sea. A Marquiss is created per gladii cincturam , & circuli aurei suo capiti positionem . He is honoured with a Coronet of Gold , which is part flowered , and part pyramidal , with the points and flowers , or leaves of an equal height . His Mantle is doubled Ermin , which is of three doublings and an half , whereas the Mantle of an Earl is but of three ; and the doublings of a Viscount's Mantle is but two and a half , which are only plain white Furr without Ermins , as are the Barons , which are but of two doublings . The form of their Patent ( which at their Creation is delivered into their hands ) was various ; but of late ●tis regulated to the method of those of other Degrees , and the Ceremonies the same . This Honour is hereditary , and the eldest Son , by the Courtesie of the Land , is called Earl , or Lord of a place ; and the younger Sons only Lord Iohn , Lord Thomas , or the like . He hath the Title of most Noble , most Honourable , and Potent Prince ; and may have his Cloth of Estate reaching within a yard of the Ground , the King or a Duke not being present ; and his Marchioness may have her Train born up by a Knight's Lady in her own House , but not in a Dutchesses presence . A Marquisses eldest Son is born an Earl , and shall go as an Earl , and have his Essay in an Earl's presence , and wear as many powdrings as an Earl , but shall give place to an Earl ; and his Wife shall go beneath a Countess , and abov● all Marquisses Daughters , who are born Ladies , and the eldest a Countess , but shall go beneath a Countess . At the Creation of a Marquiss , he must have on him his Surcoat and Hood , and be led by a Duke or Marquiss ; the Sword and Cap to be born by Earls . He must go after his Creation , not after his Marquisite , and the Marchioness his Wife according to the same . The Effigies of the Right honble . CHARLES BEAUCLAIRE Baron of Heddington & Earle of BURFORD . And of ye. Rt. honble : IAMES Ld. BEAUCLAIRE Brother and heir to ye. Right honble : Charles Earle of Burford . The Rt. honble . Aubrey Vere , Earle of Oxford● Baron Bulbeck , Sandford , & Badlefinere , Kt. of the Garter , L ? Leiutenant wth . his grace the Duke of ●●●●marle of Essex , & one of his . Ma●ys● most Hon. privy Councell &c a. The Right Honourable Charles Talbot , Earle of Shrewsbury Baron Talbot , Strange of Blackmere , Gifford of Brimshel● Purnivull● Verdon , & Loveto● The Right Honourable Anthony Grey Earle of Kent , Baron Grey of Ruthin , Hasting , and Valance 〈◊〉 Right honble . William Stanley Earle● of Der●● Lord Stanley &c Strange of Knocking Viscount Kint●● Baron of We●●on L ● . Mob●n Burnet , Basset , & Lacy. L ● . Leivt●nant of Lanc●shire . & ● Cheshire and Admirall of the Seas their● belonging . C●amberlaine of Ch●ster , & ● L ● . of Man as of the Isles &c a. The Right honble . Iohn Mannors Earle of Rutland , Baron Ross of Hamlack , Trushut , and Belvior , and Lord Leivetenant of Leicestershire . The Right honble . Theophilus Earle of Huntington , L d Hastings of Hastings , Hungerford , Homet , Botreaux , Moules , Moulins , & Pe●erell , & Elizabeth Countess of Huntington his wife , eldest daughter & Coeheire of Sr. Iohn Lewis , late of Ledston in Yorkshire , K ● , Bart. deceased . The Right honble . William Russell Earle of Bedford , Baron Russell of Tavestock , & Thornhaugh & Knight of the most Noble Order of the Garter &ct. The Right Honb le . Philip Herbert Earle of Pembrook ● Montgomery , Baron Herbert of Shurland , Cardiffe , Ross of Kendale , Parr , Marmion , and St. Quintin , Ld. of the Lordships of Vske , Carleon , Nemport & . Treleg , and Lord Leiutenant of Wiltshire &ct. The Right honble . Edward Fines Earle of Lincoln , & Baron of Clinton &ct. The Right honble . Charles Howard Earle of Nottingham , Baron Howard of Effington &ct. The Right honble : Iames Howard Earle of Suffol● Baron Howard of Walden , Lord Leiuetenant of the Countys of Cambridge , & Suffolk , one of the Gentlemen of his matys bedchamber , & Deputy Earle Marshall of England● The Right honble , Charles 〈◊〉 ● Earle of Dorset & Middsex , Baron 〈◊〉 & Cranf●ild , one of the Gentlem●● 〈◊〉 his Maty● , Bedchamber & Lord Leiut●●●nt of Sussex The Right Honourable Iames Coecill , Earle of Salisbury , Viscount Cranborne and Baron Coecill of Essenden The Right Honourable Iohn Coecill Earle of Exeter , Baron Coecill of Burleigh &c a. The 〈◊〉 Iohn Egerton Earle of Bridg 〈…〉 Brackley , Baron of El●mere , Ld. 〈◊〉 of the County of Bucks , & one the 〈◊〉 his matys● most Hon. privy Councell &c. The Right honble . Robert Sidney , Earle of Leicester , Viscount Lisle , Baron Sidney of ●en●urst . and one of the Lords of his Ma. ●●s most honble . privy Councell &c. The Right Honourable Iames Earle of Northampton , Baron Compton of Compton , Lord Leivtenant of Warwick shire . and one of the Lords of his matys . most honble : privy Councell ● Constable of his matys Tower of London , and Leivtenant of the Hamlets thereto belonging . The Right Honourable Robert Earle of Warwick , and Holland● and Baron Rich of Leeze , and Kensington &c a The Right Honourable William Earle of Devonshire● Baron Cavendish of Hardwick , Knight of the Bath , and Lord Leivtenant of Derby shire &c a The Right Honourable William Feildin● 〈◊〉 de Hapsburgh , Earle of Denbig● , Viscount Feilding , Baron Feilding of Newenham : Pad●x and St. Lis. and Earle of Desmond &c a. in Ireland . The Right Hononrable George Digby , Earle of Bristoll , Baron Digby of Sherborne & ct . The Right Honourable Gilbert Holles , Earle of Clare , and Baron Holles of Haughton in Nottinghamshire . The Right Honourable Oliver St. Iohn , Earle of Bullingbrook , & Baron S. t Iohn of Bletshoe & ct . The Right Hono●rable Charles Fane , Earle of Westmorland , and Baron de la Spencer and Burghwash & ct . The Right Honourable Robert Montague , Earle of Manchester , Viscount Mandevill , Baron Kimbolton , Lord Leivtenant of Huntingtonshire , and one of the Gentlemen of his matys . Bedchamber & ct . The Right Honourable Charles Howard Earle of Berkshire Viscount Andover and Baron Howard of Charlton & ct . The Right Honourable Iohn Sheffeild , Earle of Mograue , Baron Sheffeild of Butterwick , Knight of the most noble Order of the Garter , and one of the Gentlem●● of his matys . Bedchamber . The Right Honourable William Ley , Earle of Marlborough , & Baron Ley of Ley & ct . The Right Honourable Charles Knowles , Earle of Banbury , Viscount Wallingford , and Baron Knowles of Greys . The Right Honourable Thomas Savage , Earle of Rivers , Viscount Colchester , and Rock savage , and Baron Darcy of Chich. The Right Honourable Robert Bertue , Earle of Lindsey , Baron Villoughby of Eresby , Lord Great Chamberlaine of England , Lord Leivtenant of Lincolnshire one of the Gentlemen of the B●dchamber , and Lords of the most honble privy Councell to his Ma ●y K Charles ye● The Right Honourable Iohn Cary , Earle of Dover , Viscount Rochford , and Baron Hunsden . The Right Honourable Henry Mordaunt , Earle of Peterborow , Lord Baron of Turvey , Lord Leiutenant of the County of Northampton , And● one of the Lords of his Majesties Most Honourable Privy Councell . & c t The Right Honourable Thomas Grey Earle of Stamford , Ld. Ferrers of Grooby , Banevill and Harrin●●●escended from the family of the Greus who were Marqueses o● Dorset : the last of wch was Hen. who before his Attain●ure and Execution in Anno 1553 was Created Duke of Suffolk . The Right Honourable Heneage Finch , Earle of Winchelsey , Viscount Maidston , Baron Fiz Herber● of Eastwell , Lord of the Royall Manner of Wye , and Lord Leiutenant of the Countys of Kent ● Somerset The Right Honourable Charles Dormer , Earle of Carnarvan . Viscount Ascot● and Baron of wing , Master , Marshall , and Surveyour of his Majetyes Hawks . The Right Honourable Montjoy Blunt Earle of New●port . Baron Montjoy of Thurveston in Devonsh●●● and Lord Montjoy of Montjoy Fort in Ireland &c a. The Right Honourable Phillip Stanhope● Earle of Ches●erfield , and Baron Stanhope of Shelford , &c a. The Right Honourable Nicholas Tufton● Earle of Thanet , and Baron Tufton of Tufton &c a. The Right Honourable Thomas Weston Earl● of Portland , Baron Weston of Neyland &c ● . The Right Honourable William Wentworth Earl● of Strafford , Viscount Wentworth , and Baron Went●●●●●●d house Newmar●h Oversley and Raby Knight of th● Garler and one of the Lords of his Ma ●ys . most honble . privy Councell &c a. The Right Honourable Robert Spencer , Earle of Sunderland , Baron Spencer of Wormle●ton , one of th●●●ntlemen of the Bedchamber , and Lords of the privy Councell to his Maty . K Ch y● 2 The Right Honourable Nicholas Leake , Earle o● Scarsdale , and Baron Dayncourt &c a. The Right Honourable Iohn Wilmot Earle of Rochester Baron Wilmot of Alderbury in England and Discount Wil●mot of Athlone in Ireland and one of the Gentlemen of his matys . Bedchamber The Right Honourable Henry Iermine , Earle of St. Albon● Baron of St. Edmonds●bury , Knight of the most noble order of the Garter , and one of the Lords of his matys . most honble . privy Councell &c. The Right Honourable Edward Montague , Earle of Sandwich● Viscount Montague of Hinchingbrooke , and Baron Montague of St. Neots . The Rt. Noble Iames Duke Marquest , & Earle of Ormond , Earle of ossery & Br●cknock , Viscount Thurles , Baron of Arklow & Lanthony● Ld. Leiutenan● 〈◊〉 Ireland , Ld. High , ●teward of his matys . House hold , Chancellor of the ●niversity of Oxford , ●t. of the Garter , ● o●● of the Lds . of his Ma ●●s most Hon privy Councell ●c● The Right Honourable Henry Hide , Earl● of Clarendon , Viscount Cornbu●●● Baron Hide of Hendon . The Right honble . Arthur Capell , Earle of Essex . Viscount Malden , Baron Capell of Hadham , one of the Lords of his matys . most Honourable privy Councell , Lord Leivtenant , & Custos Rotollorum of Hartfordshire , la●● Ld. Leivtenant Generall , and Generall Governor of his Ma ●●s . Kingdome of Ireland . The Right Honourable Robert Brudenell Earle of Cardigan , and Baron Brudenell of Staughton &ct. The Right Honourable Arthur Annesley , Earle of Anglesey , Baron Annesley of Newport Pagnell in England Viscount Valentia & Baron Mount Norris of Mount-Noris in Ireland ; Ld. privy Seale & one of the Lds . of his matys . most honble . privy Councell for England & Ireland &c●● The Right honble . Iohn Earle of Bath Viscount ●renvile of Lonsdowne , Baron Greenvile of Kilkhampton & Bidiford , L ● Warden of the Stanneries , high Steward of the Dutchy of Cornwall , Ld. Leivetenant of Cornwall Governour of Plymouth , Groom of the Stoole , first Gent. of his matys . Bedchamber , and one of his Ma ●● . privy Councell & c●t. The Right honble . Charles Howard Earle of Carlisle Viscount Morpeth , Baron Dacres of Gisland , Lord Leivtenant of Cumberland and Westmorland , Vice Admirall of the Coast of Northumberland , Cumberland Westmoreland , Bishoprick of Durham Towne and County of New castle and Maritin parts adjacent , and one of the Lords of his Maties . most honble . privy Councell &c●t . The Right honble : William Earle of Craven , Viscount Craven of Vffington , Baron Craven of Hampsted-Marshall , Lord Leivtenant of the County of Midd●x . and Borough of Southwark , & one of the Lords of his Mtys . most honble . privy Councell &c●t . The Right honble : Robert Bruce , Earle of Alisbury & Elgin , Viscount Bruce of Ampthill , Baron Bruce of Whor●●on Skelton & Kinloss , Hereditary High Steward of the Honour of Amp●hi●● Lord Leivtenant of the County of Bedford , and High Steward of Leicester &ct. The Right honble . Richard Boyle , Earle of Burlington , & Baron Clifford of Lansborow in England● Earle of Corke , Viscount Dungarvan , Baron Yaughal● and Lord High Tr●asurer of Ireland & ● ● . The Right honble : Henry Bennet Earle and Baron of Arlington , Viscount Thetford , Knight of the most noble order of the Garter , Lord Chamberlaine of his matys . Household , and one of the Lords of his most honble . Councel &ct. The Right honble : Anthony Earle of Sha●tesbury , Baron Ashley of Wimbourne St. Giles , and Lord Cooper of Pawle● . The Right honble : Henry Howard , ●arle of Norwich & Earle Marshall of England , Baron Howard of Castle Riseing , Now Duke of Norfolk● , see in the Catalogue of Du●es The Right Honourable William Herbert , Earle and Baron of Powis . & ● 〈◊〉 Right Honourable Edward Henry 〈◊〉 of Litchfield , Viscount Quarenton ●●d Baron Spilsbury . The Rt. Noble Iohn Maitland , Earle of Guilford , and Baron of Petersham in England , Duke of Latherdale , Viscount Maitland , Baron of Thirleston , Miescleboroug● and Bolton in Scotland ; Ld. Comissioner for his present Ma ●y . of that Kingdome , Kt. of the Garter , Gentlem●● of the Bedchamber , and one of his matys most honble . privy Councell for the Kingdomes of England & Ireland● The Right honble . Cha●les Fitz-Charles Earle of Plymouth , Viscount Totnes , and Baron Dartmouth . The Right Honourable Thomas Osborne Earle of Danby , Viscount Latimer , Baron Osborne of Kiveton , Viscount Osborne of Danblaine in Scotland ; Kt. of the most noble order of the Garter ● L d high Treasurer of England● &ct● The Right Honourable George Fitz Roy , Earle of Northumberland , Viscount Falmouth , and Baron Ponte●fract &c a. The Right Honourable Thomas Leonard Earle of Sussex , and Lord Dacres of Giles land &c a. The R t Honourable Lovis Earle of Feversham , Viscount Sondes Lord Duras , Baron of Holdenby and Throwley , Captaine of his Royall Highness Troop of his matys . Guards , Leivtenant Gene●rall of his Maties forces , and Collonell of his matys . owne Royall Regiment of Dragoons . The Right Honourable Charles Beauclair , Baron of Heddington and Earle of Burford . The Right honble . William O●Brien Earle & Baron of Insi●uin , & Baron of Burren in the Kingdome of Ireland Captaine Generall of his matys . Forces in Affrica , Gouernor of the Royoll Citty of Tanger , vice Admirall of the same , and of the parts adjacent and one of his Mat ys most honble . privy Councell for the Sd. Kingdom of Ireland . The Right Honourable Charles Moore Earle and Viscount of Drogheda , and Baron of Mellefont in the Kingdom of Ireland . &c a. The Ri t : honble . Luke Plunkett Earle of Fingall and Baron of Killeene in the Kingdome of Ireland &c a. The Rt● Honerable Sr. Arthur Chichester Kt Baron of Belfast Vist. Chichester of Carikfergus & Earle of Donegall in ye. Kingdom of Ireland Gouernor of Carikfergus & ye. Teritoryes Ther●●●● Belonging & one of his mat ys . Most Ho●●● 〈◊〉 Councell for ye. S ● . Kingdom . The Rt. honble . Iames Ogilby , Earle of Airly , Elight , and Glentrahen , in the Kingdome of Scotland . &c a. The Right Honourable Iohn Fitz Gerard , Earle of Kildeare . primier Earle of the Kingdome of Ireland . &c a. The Right Honourable William Pope Earle of Downe , Baron and Lord Pope of Bellterbitt in Ireland . &c a. The Rt. honble . Roger Palmer , Earle of Castlemaine , and Baron of Lamberick in the Kingdome of Ireland &c a. OF EARLES . CHAP. VI. THE next Degree of Honour is an Earl , which Word and Title came from the Saxons : For it is observed , That originally within this Realm , in the ancient English-Saxon Government , Earldomes of Counties were not only Dignities of Honour , but Offices of Justice , having the charge and custody of the County whereof they were Earls ; and for their Assistance , had their Deputy , called Vicecomes : which Office is now managed by Sheriffs , each County having his Sheriff Annually chosen out of the eminent Inhabitants thereof under the Degree of Nobiles Majores . And the Earls , in recompence of their Travels concerning the Affairs of the County , then received a Salary , viz. a third peny of the Profits of the County ; which Custome continued a long time after the Conquest , and was inserted as a Princely Benevolence in their Patents of Creation ( as by divers ancient Patents may appear ) which afterwards were turned into Pensions for the better support of that Honour , as appeareth by a Book-Case 32 Hen. 6. 28. And therefore in respect of such Pensions , or such other Gratuities given in lieu thereof , some men have not without probability thereof imagined , quod Comites nominabantur , quia à multis fisci Regii socii & Comites eidem participes essent . The word Earl by the Saxons was called Erlig or Ethling ; by the Germans Graves , as Lantgrave , Palsgrave , Margrave , Rheingrave , and the like ; and by the Dutch was called Eorle : But upon the coming in of the Normans they were called Comes , or Comites , that is , Counts ; and for Gravity in Council , they are called Comes Illustris , a Comitando Principem . And as Earls for their Vertues and Heroical Qualities are reputed Princes , or Companions for Princes : so ought they to deport themselves answerable to the said Dignity , as well in their Attendance and Noble House-keeping , as otherwise . The Dignity of Earl is of divers kinds , and is either local or personal : Local , as from the denomination of some place : and Personal , as being in some great Office , as Earl-Marshal , and the like . Those Local are also Palatine and Simplices . Those that are Palatine , or Count Palatine , are Chester , Lancaster , and the Bishopricks of Durham and Ely , and retain some of the ancient Priviledges allowed them by the Saxons . Hugh Lupus , who was the first Hereditary Earl , had the County Palatine of Chester given him by the Conqueror , who governed it Forty years , in which time he created eight Barons , and had Iura Regalia within the County . Of Earls not Palatine , which is as ancient as the Conquest , there have been principally two kinds , but either of them subdivided into several Branches ; for they either take name of a place , or hold their Title without any place . Those that take their Name of a place are of two kinds ; for either the place is the County , as the Earl of Devonshire , Kent , Middlesex , or the like ; or else some Town , Castle , or Honour ; as the Earldom of Richmond in Yorkshire , Clarence in Suffolk , Arundel in Suffex , Bathe and Bridgwater in Somersetshire , and so forth . And those Earldoms which have their Titles without any place , are likewise of two kinds , either in respect of Office , or by Birth : By Office , as the Earl-Marshal of England , called in Latin Comes Marascallus Angliae , and is an Office not only of great power , being in the Vacancy of the Lord High Constable of England the King's Lieutenant General in all Marshal Affairs , but of as great Honour , taking place of all Earls , except the Lord Great Chamberlain of England , and is likewise endowed with many honourable priviledges . This Title of Earl-Marshal was by K. Richard the Second first given to Thomas Mowbray Earl of Nottingham ( whereas before they were simply styled Marshals ) and after the Banishment of Mowbray , he granted it to Thomas Holland , Duke of Surrey ; and that he should carry a Rod or Verge of Gold enammeled black at both ends , whereas before they used one of Wood : This Office is now by his present Majesty restored to the ancient Family of the Howards Hereditary for ever , and is enjoyed by the Right Honourable Henry Howard , Earl of Norwich , Baron Howard of Castle-Rising in Norfolk , and Heir apparent to his Grace the Duke of Norfolk . The other sort of Earls are by Birth , and so are all the Sons of the Kings of England , if they have no other Dignity bestowed upon them : And therefore it was said that Iohn , afterwards King of England , in the life time of his Father Henry the Second , was Comites sans terre . Earls ( as other Degrees of Nobility ) are Offices of great Trust , being created by Patent for two principal purposes ; one ad consulendum Regi in tempore pacis ; the other ad defendendum Regem & Patriam in tempore belli . And therefore Antiquity hath given them two Ensigns to resemble both the said Duties : For first , the Head is adorned with a Cap of Honour , and a Coronet of Gold , which for distinction is pyramidal , pointed , and pearled , between each pyramid a Flower much shorter th●n the pyramid : And the Body is adorned with Robes , viz. a Hood , Surcoat , and Mantle of State , with three guards of Fur upon the Shoulders ; which Robe is an emblem of Counsel : and they are begirt with a Sword in resemblance of that they must be faithful and true to defend their Prince and Country . An Earl had formerly the Title of Prince ; but now it is Most Potent and Noble Lord , as also The Right Honourable and truly Noble . Out of his Superiors presence he may have a Cloth of Estate fringed without pendants ; and his Countess may have her Train born up by an Esquire's Wife . But to the King 's high Council of Parliament no man ought to presume to come before he hath received the King 's Writ of Summons . This Constitution was first made by King Henry the Third , after the Barons War was appeas'd , and by King Edward the Third , and his Successors , it hath been carefully observed . The form of a Writ of Summons to an Earl , is as followeth : REX , &c. Vnto his welbeloved Cosin , John Earl of Greeting . Because by the advice and assent of our Council , for certain weighty and urgent businesses concerning us , the state and defence of our Kingdom and Church , we have ordained to be holden a certain Parliament at our City of Westminster the day of next coming , and there together with you , and with the Prelates , and Great and Noble Men of our said Kingdom , to have confidence and treaty , commanding , and firmly injoyning you upon your Faith and Allegiance whereby you are holden unto us , that the dangers and perils imminent of that business considered , and all Excuses set apart , you be present at the said day in the same place with us , and with the Prelates and Noblemen aforesaid , to treat and give counsel upon the aforesaid business ; and hereof fail not , as you tender our honour and the safegard , and defence of our Kingdom and Church aforesaid . Witness our self at Westminster the day of in the year of our Reign . In this Writ an Earl is saluted by the K●ng by the Name of Cosin , although no Kin ; and the Writ of Summons to him , or any other Peer , is particularly directed to himself , and not unto the Sheriff of the Country , as the general Summons are to Knights and Burgesses of Parliament . After a man is created an Earl , Viscount , or any other Title of Honour above his Title , it is become parcel of his Name ; and not an addition only , but in all legal Proceedings he ought to be styled by that his Dignity . In the first of King Edward the Third , fol. 151. a Writ of Formedon was brought against Richard Son of Alleyn , late Earl of Arundel , and did demand the Mannor of C. with the Appurtenances , &c. The Tenant by his Learned Counsel , did plead that he was Earl of Arundel , and was at the day of the Writ purchased , and demanded Judgment of the Writ , because he was not named in the Writ according to his Dignity and Title of Honour . To which the Demandant saith , That at that time , when he did purchase the Writ , the Tenant was not known nor taken to be an Earl , and it is severe Justice if the Writ shall abate without any default in the Plaintiff : nevertheless , because the truth of the matter was so , that the Earldom did descend unto him before the Plaintiff had commenced his Action , and purchased his Writ against him ; therefore by Judgment his Writ was abated , although the Tenant was not at that time known to be an Earl. But if a Baron be Plaintiff or Defendant , it is not of necessity to name him Baron , 8 Hen. 6. 10. yet see a distinction of Barons concerning this matter , here following : And so Reginald Gray was reputed Esquire after the Earldom descended unto him , till at last it was published and declared by the Queen , and the Heralds , that he was Earl of Kent in Right , and by Descent , although he was not reputed or named Earl before that time . But an addition may be used , or omitted at pleasure , except in special Cases where Processes of style of Supremum Caput Ecclesiae Anglicanae , which by Act of Parliament in the 26 th of Hen. 8. cap. 1. and in the 35 th of Hen. 8. cap. 3. was annexed to the Imperial Crown of this Realm . It is no part of the King's style , so that it may be omitted in the Summons of Parliament at pleasure ; and so it is adjudged and declared by Parliament in the First and Second of Philip and Mary , cap. 8. fol. 156. But not between the Majestical Style of the King , and the Title of Honour appertaining to a Subject ; this difference is between Grants or Purchases made by or to a Nobleman , &c. For in that first case it is necessary that the Name [ King ] be expressed , otherwise they are void . But if a Duke , Earl , or other Degree of Nobility , do Purchase or Grant , by the Name of Baptisme and Surname , or other Title of Honour , it is not void ; for it is a Rule in Law , That every man's Grant shall be construed most to the benefit of him to whom the said Grant is made , that it may rather be strengthened than made void ; for there is a great diversity in the Law between Writs and Grants : For if Writs are not formally made , they shall be abated , which is only the loss of the same ; but if a Grant should be made void , then the party hath no remedy to have a new one , and for that cause the Law doth not favour Advantages by occasion of false Latin , or such like mistake . And if an Earl be Plaintiff or Demandant , and having the Writ , shall not abate ; but nevertheless he shall proceed , and count by the Name of an Earl , according to such Title of Honour as he did bear at the time of the Commencement of his Action . But if the Plaintiff in a Quare Impedit be made Knight , having the Writ , shall abate . There is a Statute made in the First of Henry the Fifth , cap. 5. wherein is contained as followeth : Item , It is ordained and established , That every original Writ of Actions , personal Appeals , and Indictments , in which the Exigent shall be awarded in the names of the Defendants ; in such Writs , original Appeals , and Indictments , additions shall be m●de of their Estates , Degrees , and Mysteries ; and the Towns , Hamlets , and Places , and the County where they were , or be conversant : And if by Process upon the said original Writs , Appeals , or Indictments , in which the said additions are omitted , any Outlawries be pronounced , that they be clearly void , and that before these Outlawries pronounced the said Writs and Indictments shall be abated by the exceptions of the party wherein the said additions are omitted : Provided , that though the said Writs of Additions Personal be not according to the Records and Deeds by the surplusage of the Additions aforesaid , that for this cause they be not abated : And that the Clerks of Chancery , under whose Names such Writs shall go forth written , shall not leave out , or make omission of the said Additions , as aforesaid , upon pain of punishment , and to make fine to the King , by the discretion of the Lord Chancellor or Keeper . And this Ordinance shall begin to hold place at the suit of the party , from the Feast of St. Michael then next ensuing . Although addition of Estate , Degree , and Mystery to be added unto Names be written in the Statute first before the additions of the Places and Counties ; yet it hath been used always after the making of the said Statute , to place the Addition of Estate , Degree , and Mystery after the Places and Counties in all Writs● Appeals , and Indictments against common persons : But the use is otherwise in Appeals and Indictments of Treason or Felony against Dukes , Marquisses , and Earls ; for their Names of Degrees are in such case put before the Additions of Places and Counties ; as Charles Earl of Westmoreland , late of Branspit in the County of Durham . Names of Dignity , as Dukes , Earls , Barons , Baronets , Knights , &c. are contained within the word [ Degree ] for the Sate of a man is his Mystery . Brook , Chief Iustice of the Common Pleas in Abridgment of the Case of 14 Hen. 6. fol. 15. titulo , Nosme de Dignitate . Injuries done to the Name and Honour of a Nobleman . IN the Second of Richard the Second , c. 1. that Counterfeits and Spreaders abroad of false and reproachful words and lies against the Nobility , Prelates , and Great Men in publick Offices ; as the Lord Chancellor , or Keeper , the Lord Treasurer , Lord Steward of the King's Houshold , the Judges , &c. whereby Debates and Discord may arise between the said Lords and Commons , to the great detriment of the Realm if due Remedy be not provided ; It is s●raitly Enacted upon grievous pain , to eschew the said Dangers and Perils , That from thenceforth none presume to tell , or report any false and scandalous News against any of the persons aforesaid , whereby discord , or any slander might arise ; and he that doth the same shall incur the punishment ordained by the Statute of Westminster , cap. 33. which wills , that he be taken and imprisoned till he have found him that first reported the same . And further , by another Statute Anno 12 Rich. cap. 12. it was enacted moreover , That when the said Offender is taken and imprisoned , and cannot find him that first spake them , then he shall be punished by the advice of the Council . And to the intent that such evil disposed persons , which by their lewd speeches and slanderous words or reports , do endeavour to break and disquiet the peace of the Realm , might the sooner be enquired of , found out , and punished by a Statute made in the first and second of Philip and Mary , it was established , That the Justices of the Peace in every Shire , City , and Town Corporate within the Limits of their several Commissions , shall have full power to hear and determine the Causes abovesaid in the two Acts of Edw. 1. and 2 Rich. 2. specified ; and to put the said Statutes , and every part thereof , in due execution , that condign punishment be not deferred from such Offenders . And besides the said Penalties to be so inflicted on Transgres●ors , every Nobleman , or great Officer of the Realm , against whom any scandalous words , false news or lies are spoken , may prosecute the Offender in any Action de scandalis magnatum , and recover damages against him . And in like manner may every inferiour person , for any such like words of infamy spoken against him , recover damages against the Offender . And in former times , speeches tending to the reproach of others were so odious , that King Edgar ordained , That his Tongue should be cut out that spake any infamous or slanderoas words of another . And the said Lord Beauchamp did sue an Action upon the Statute of Richard the Second , cap. 5. de scandalis magnatum , against Sir● Richard Ch●●fts , because he did sue a Writ of forging of false Deeds against the said Lord Beauchamp ; and the Defendant doth justifie the said slander by use of the said Writ , &c. And upon Demurrer the matter of Justification was good , so that he was not liable to the punishment of the said Statutes , but was quite discharged from the same . There is no foul puddle that ariseth from the same corrupt Quagmire , and distilled likewise out of a heart infected with Malice and Envy , but it devised and practised by another meaner than the former , which is by lybelling , secret slandering or defaming of others ; for this privy Backbiter doth not by words impeach his Adversary in so manifest and turbulent manner as the cholerick Menacer in his fury doth ; but seeming to sit quietly in his Study , doth more deeply wound his Fame and Credit , than the other boisterous person doth ; for he in a moment threatneth to do more , than peradventure he is either able , or hath courage to perform in all his life : For his Passion thus discovering the Malice of his Heart , doth give his Adversary warning to defend himself from him : But this secret Canker the Libeller concealeth his Name , hideth himself in a Corner , and privily s●ingeth his Reputation and Credit , and he knoweth not how to right himself ; and the greater is this Offence , if done to a publick Magistrate or Minister of State ; for then it may bring a disturbance to the peace of the King and Kingdom . And if it be against a private person , the staining his Reputation will cause him not to be at quiet in Body and Mind , until he hath found his Enemy , which many times may lie so secretly hid , that he cannot be discovered ; and then probably one innocent ( upon some suspicion or other ) may come to suffer for it . Sometimes the malicious Defamer poureth forth his poyson in writing , by a Scandalous Book , Ballad , Epigram , or Rhime , near the place where the party so abused doth most converse . In which cases the Law hath provided that the party delinquent ( when he is found out and discovered ) shall be severely punished ; for he may either be Indicted by the ordinary Course of the Common Law ; and if it be an exorbitant Offence , then by Pillory , loss of Ears , Whipping , &c. or the party grieved may have an Action upon the Case against the Offender , and recover his Damages : And in this it is not material whether the Libel be true or false , or the party scandalized be alive or dead , or be of a good or ill Name ; yet our Laws are so made as to punnish him , and such like men , by a due Course of Justice . And to conclude this matter concerning Wrongs done to the Name and Dignity of a Nobleman , this may be added , That it is usual for any person to usurp the Arms of another . Further , if a Nobleman's Coat-Armour and Sword of other Gentleman 's bearing Arms at the solemnizing of their Funerals , is set up in the Church for the Honour of the deceased , and is by the covetousness of the Incumbent that pretendeth right thereunto , as Offerings due unto him , afterwards taken down ; or if they be defaced by any other , such are to be severely punished as Malefactors : And in that case the Action shall not be given to the Widow , though she be Executrix or Administratrix of her Husband's Goods ; for such things which serve for the Honour of the party deceased , are not to be accounted inter bona Testatoris . And the Heir shall have his Action as the Defender of his Ancestor's Honour : But the wrong is offered to the House and Blood , and therein specially to the Heir , qui est totius geniturae splendor ; and therefore to him accrueth the right of Action ; for so it is reported by Sir Iohn Fern in his Glory of Generosity , fol. 83. that the Lady Withers Case in 9 Edw. 4. 14. hath been adjudged . OF VISCOUNTS . CHAP. VII . THE next Degree of Honour to an Earl is a Viscount , which was anciently a Name of Office under an Earl ; who being an immediate Officer of the King 's in their County , for that their personal attendance was oft-times required at the Court , had his Deputy to look after the Affairs of the County , which at this day is an Office , and called a Sheriff , retaining the Name of his Substitution ; in Latin therefore called Vicecomes . But about the Eighteenth of Henry the Sixth it became a Degree of Honour , who conferred this Title upon Iohn Lord Beaumont by Letters Patent . A Viscount is created by Patent , as an Earl ; hath a Hood , Surcoat , and Mantle , which hath on it two Guards and a half of white plain Furr , without Ermins ; And his Coronet is only pearled with a row of Pearls close to the Chaplet . He hath the Title of the Right Honourable and truly Noble , or Potent Lord : He may have a Taveress in his own House ; and his Viscountess may have her Train born up by a Woman out of her Superior's presence , and in their presence by a Man. The Effigies of the Right honble : Thomas Belasise viscount Falconbergh of Henknowle Baron Falconbergh of Yarum Ld. Leiuetenant of the North rideing of York shire And one of ye. Lords of his maties : most honble : Priuy Councell & ct . R. Whi●● sculp : The Rt. Honourable George Sauile Viscount Halifax Baron Sauile : The Rt. Honourable Robert Paston Viscoun● Yarmouth Baron Paston of Paston : The Rt. Honourable Francis Viscount Nervport ●f Bradford , Baron Nervport of High Erc●ll . Ld. Leutenant of ye. County of Salop. Treasurer of his matys . Household . & one of ye. Lds . of his matys . most honble . Privy Councell . The Rt. Hon●rbl● . Thoma● Needham L●rd Viscount Killmurr●y of the Kingdome of Ireland . The Rt. Honorable Wi●liam Viscount Brouncker of Lyon● , and Baron Brouncker of N●● Castle in the Kingdome of Ireland . & a. The R t Hon●rable Charles Ld. Fairfax Viscount Emula in the Kingdome of Ireland . The Rt. Honorable Maurice Berkeley● Baron Beckeley of Rathdowne ; & Viscount Fitz Harding , of ●ear hauen in the Kingdome of Ireland . The Right Honourable Leicester Devoreux Viscount Hereford and Baron Ferrers of Chartley. The Right Honourable Francis Browne , Viscount Montague . The Right Honourable William Finn●● Viscount and Baron Say and Seale . The Right honble . Edward Viscount Conway , & Bar●n of Ragley in England , and Viscount of Kilultagh in Ireland Leivetenant Generall of the Horse , and one of the Lords of his Majestys mo●t honble . privy for the said Kin●dome of Ireland . The Rt. Honourable Baptist Noel Viscoun● Baron Noel of Ridlington and Elmington And Lord Leiutenant of Rutlandshire The Right Honourable William Howard Viscount and Baron Stafford : The Rt. Honourable Thomas Bellasis●● Viscount Folconbergh of Henknowle . 〈◊〉 Falconbergh of Yarum , Lord Leivtenant of North rideing of Yorkeshire & one of the Ld● . of his 〈◊〉 . Most honble . Priuy Councell . ●he Rt. Honourable , Iohn Mordant 〈…〉 Mordant of Aveland and Baron of Rygate The most Reverend Father in god Gilbert Sheldon by Divine Providence Lord Arch-Bishop of Canterbury Primate & Metropolitan of all England , & one of y● Lords of his matys most honble . privy Councell . The most Reverend Father in God Richard Sterne by Divine Prouidence Lord Arch-Bishop of Yorke , Primate and Metropolitane of England &c a. The Right Reverend Father in god Humfrey Hinchman by Divine permission Lord Bishop of London , Grand Almoner to his Maty . & one of the Lords of his matys . most honble . privy Councell &c a. The Right Reverend Father in God Seth by Diuine permission Lord Bisshop of sarum & Chancellor of the most noble order of the Garter &c ● . The Right Reverend Father in God Henry Compton , by Divine permission Lord Bishop of London , Deane of his matys . Chappel , and one of the Lords of his most honble . privy Councell , brother to the Rt. honble . Iames Earle of Northampton . The Right Reverend Father in God Nathaniel Crew , by divine permission Lord Bishop of Durham , Clerk of the Closet● to his Maty . and one of the Lords of his most honble . privy Councell ; son to the Rt. honble . Iohn . Ld. Crew Baron of Steane . The Right Reverend Father in God Iohn Pearson by Divine permission Lord Bishop of Chester . The Right Reverend Father in God Peter Gunning by Divine permission Lord Bishop of Ely. OF THE Lords Spiritual . CHAP. VIII . ACCORDING to the Laws and Customes of this Realm , many are the Ecclesiastical Dignities and Priviledges belonging to the Bishops and Clergymen , who in all succeeding Ages have been reverenced with the greatest observance imaginable , as being acknowleded by all good Christians to be those Messengers sent , and particularly appointed by God to take care of our Souls . The Subjects of England are either Clergy or Laymen , both which are subdivided into Nobility and Commons . Thus we find in our Parliament the Lords Spiritual and Temporal make the Upper House ; the Commons Spiritual , viz. the Clergy elected to sit in Convocation ( who once had place and suffrage in the Lower House of Parliament ) and the Commons Temporal , viz. the Knights and Burgesses make the Commons . Most evident it is , by the Consent of all the Councils , Fathers , Histories , and Universal Tradition , That for the first Fifteen hundred years continuance of Christianity , there is no Example to be found of any Church governed by any Authority Ecclesiastick but that of Episcopacy ; they were ordained by the Apostles themselves to be their Successors in Christ's Church , to have a vigilant eye over the Pastors and Teachers under them , as to their Lives and Doctrine , for the preservation of Truth and Peace , the prevention of Scandal , suppression of Heresie and Schism , and to have a care of their Flock , to bring them to Salvation . 'T is not therefore without reason that in all times they have been the first of the two Divisions of the people , the Clergy and Laity ; and as Spiritual Barons take place of Temporal ; they take their name from the Saxon word Biscoep , a Super-intendent or Overseer . They are three ways Barons of the Realm , viz. by Writ , Patent , and Consecration . They precede all under the Degree of Viscounts , and are always placed upon the King 's right hand in the Parliament House . They have the Title of Lords , and Right Reverend Fathers in God : And their Sees , by the piety of former times , are endowed with fair Revenues for the due administration of what belongs to their places : And to keep them from corrupt and sinister affections , the King 's most Noble Progenitors , and the Ancestors of the Nobility and Gentry , have sufficiently endowed the Church with Honour and Possessions . Many Priviledges and Immunities were likewise granted to them , and the Clergy , by the Saxon and Danish Kings ; as coyning of Money , conferring the Order of Knighthood , &c. which hath been long since appropriate to the Crown . Thus Laufranck , Archbishop of Canterbury , made William the Second Knight in the life time of his Father . Of Priviledges remaining , some belong to to the Archbishops ; some to the Bishops , as they are so ; and some to them , and all other of the Clergy . We read of three Archbishopricks in England before the Saxons came amongst us ; viz. that of London , York , and Carleon upon Vske : But Christianity being thence expelled , by the Pagans , the succession of those Sees ceased , till it pleased God to restore the Light of his Gospel to the blind Saxons ( which in this Kingdom had planted themselves ) by the Ministration of St. Augustin , who first preached Salvation to them at Canterbury , and was there buried , for whose sake they removed the Episcopal See from London unto Canterbury ; and in process of time placed another Archbishop at ●ork ; which two Provinces included England and Wales , and have Five and twenty Bishops under them , Six and twenty Deans of Cathedrals and Collegiate Churches , Sixty Arch-Deacons , Five hundred forty four Prebendaries , many rural Deans , and about Ten thousand Rectors and Vicars of Parishes . The Archbishop of Canterbury was anciently the Metropolitan of England , Scotland , Ireland , and the Isles adjacent ; and was therefore sometime styled a Patriarch , and had several Archbishops under him : His style was , Alterius orbis Papa , & orbis Britannici Pontifex : The Date of Records in Ecclesiastical Affairs ran thus , Anno Pontificatus nostri primo , &c. He was Legatus Natus ; which power was annexed to that See near One thousand years ago , whereby no other Legat or Nuntio from Rome could exercise any Legantive power without the King 's special Licence . In General Councils he had place before all other Archbishops at the Pope's right Foot : Nor was he respected less at home than abroad , being according to the practise of most other Christian States , reputed the second person in the Kingdom , and named and ranked before the Princes of the Blood. By the favour of our present King he still enjoys divers considerable preheminences ; as Primate and Metropolitan of all England ; hath power to summon the Arch-bishop of York , and the Bishops of his Province to a National Synod ; is primus par Regni , preceding not only Dukes , but all the Great Officers of the Crown , next to the Royal Family . He is styled by the King , Dei Gratia Archiopiscopus Cantuarii : Writes himself Divina Providentia , as doth the Archbishop of York ; ( other Bishops write Divina permissione : ) and hath the Title of Grace given him , ( as it is to Dukes ; ) and Most Reverend Father in God. His Office is to Crown the King ; and wheresoever the Court shall happen to be , 't is said the King and Queen are Speciales Domestici Parochiani Domini Archiepisc. Cant. The Bishop of London is accounted his Provincial Dean ; the Bishop of Winchester his Chancellor ; and the Bishop of Rochester his Chaplain . He hath the power of all the probate of Wills , and granting Letters of Administration where the party hath bona notabilia , that is Five pounds worth , or above , out of the Diocess wherein he dieth ; or Ten pounds worth within the Diocess of London . By Statute of Hen. 8. 25. he hath power to grant Licences , Dispensations , &c. and holds divers Courts of Judicature ; viz. his Courts of Arches , of Audience , his Prerogative Court , and his Court of Peculiars : And he may retain , and qualifie eight Chaplains , which is more by two than a Duke can do . The Arch-bishop of York was also Legatus Natus , and had that Authority annexed to his See. He had all the Bishopricks of Scotland under his Province till the year 1470. He hath the place and precedency of all Dukes , not of the Royal Blood , and of all great Officers , except only the Lord Chancellor , or Lord Keeper . He hath the Title of Grace , and Most Reverend Father in God : He hath the Honour to Crown the Queen , and to be her perpetual Chaplain . He is also styled Primate of England , and Metropolitan of his Province . He hath the Rights of a County Palatine over Hexamshire in Northumberland . He may qualifie Chaplains ; and hath divers other Prerogatives which the Archbishop of Canterbury hath within his own Province ; but Durham being one , hath in many things a peculiar Jurisdiction , exempted from the Archbishop . Priviledges belonging to the Bishops are as followeth . IN their own Court they have power to judge and pass Sentence alone , without any Colleague , which is not done in any other Court : And therefore the Bishops send sorth their Citations in their own Names , not in the King 's , as the Writs in other Courts run . They may depute their Authority to another ( as doth the King ) either to their Suffragan-Bishops , their Chancellors , Commissaries , or other Officers , which none of the King's Judges can do . In whatever Prince's Dominions they come , their Episcopal Dignity and Degree is owned ; they may confer Orders , &c. whereas no Lay-lord is acknowledged but in the King's Dominions , who gave him the Title . None of them can be Indicted of any Crime before a Temporal Judge , without especial Licence from the King : A severe penalty to be inflicted on them that raise any Scandal or false Report . In a Tryal where a Bishop is Plaintiff or Defendant , the Bishop may , as well as any Lay-lord , challenge the Array , if one Knight at least be not returned upon the Jury . In Criminal Tryals for life , all Bishops are to be tryed by their Peers , who are Barons , and none under that Degree to be impanelled : but anciently they were exempted from any Tryal by Temporal Judges . In Parliament they may Vote in any thing , but in sentence for Life , or loss of Member , they being by Common Law to absent themselves ; and by Common Law to make Proxies to Vote for them . They are freed from all Arrests , Outlawries , Distresses , &c. They have liberty to hunt in any of the King's Forests or Parks , to take one or two Deer , coming or going from the King's Presence ; and to have Wine free from Impost , &c. Their Persons may not be seized for Contempt but their Temporalities only ; and their word only is to be taken , and their Certificate allowed in the Tryal of Bastardy , Heresie , &c. And such respect has been shewed their Persons , that an Offence by a Clergyman to his Bishop is called Episcopicide , and punished as Paracide , equal to petty Treason . Every Bishop may qualifie as many Chaplains as a Duke : They are all Barons and Peers of the Realm , and have place in the upper House of Parliament , as afore noted , and take place according to Seniority of their Consecration , except London , Durham , and Winchester , who precede by Statute made in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . It will not be amiss to speak somewhat of the Immunities common to all Ecclesiasticks , as well Commons as Lords Spiritual , as followeth . All Suffragan Bishops , Deans , Archdeacons , Prebends , Rectors , and Vicars have priviledge , some by themselves , others by proxy , to sit and vote in the lower House of Convocation . No Subsidy or other Tax can be imposed upon them without their own consent . No Clergyman may be compelled to undergo any personal Service in the Commonwealth , nor to serve in the Wars , or to bear any servile Office . They are free from the King's Purveyors , Carriers , Posts , &c. for which they may demand a protection from the King , cum clausula nolumus . They are not obliged to appear at the Sheriffs Turns or Views of Frank pledge , nor are impanelled to serve upon Inquests at Assizes or elsewhere . If a Clergyman acknowledge a Statute , his Body shall not be taken thereupon ; for the Writ runs , Si Laicus sit , &c. Their Goods are discharged from Tolls and Customs ( si non exerceant Merchandizas de eisdem ; ) but they must have the King 's Writ to discharge them . As the Clergymen are exempted from the Wars , being by reason of their Function , they are prohibited the wearing a Sword ; so every man in the order of Priesthood is debarred the Order of Knighthood of the Sword , cum eorum militia sit contra mundum carnem & diabolum , saith Sir Iohn Fern ; yet laying aside their Cures , and also lying themselves to a secular life , they have been admitted . Dei natalin ( saith Matth. Paris ) Iohannem de Gatesden clericum & multis dit●atum beneficiis , sed omnibus resignatis , quia sic oportuit , Baltheo cinxit militari . These , and many other Rights , Liberties , and Priviledges belong to the Clergy of England , all which the King at his Coronation solemnly swears to preserve to them : And they have been confirmed by above Thirty Parliaments ; and if any Act be made to the contrary , it is said to be Null by the Statute of the 4 th of Edward the Third . OF BARONS . CHAP. IX . AMONGST the Nobles and Honourable Persons , Barons have the next place . And first , of the Dignity and Degrees of a Baron in general : Secondly , of the Etymology of the Name : Thirdly , of the Antiquity thereof , and of the divers uses in former Ages : Fourthly , of the Division , and the consideration of the several kinds of Barons : And lastly , a Declaration of the divers and sundry Priviledges allowed them , and the rest of the Nobles , by the Laws of this Realm . The Definition or Description of a Baron . IT is a certain Rule in Law , Definitiones in jure sunt periculosissimae ; earum est enim 〈◊〉 non subverti possunt ; and therefore I do not often find any Definition or Description of a Baron delivered by Writers : nevertheless in this our Kingdom , it is my Opinion , that a Baron may be described in a generality , answerable unto every special kind thereof in this manner . A Baron is a Dignity of Nobility and Honour next unto the Viscount : And the Books of Law do make a difference between Dukes , Marquisses , Earls , and Viscounts , which are allowed Names of Dignity , and the Baron ; for they affirm , That such a Baron need not to be named Lord or Baron by his Writ ; but the Duke , Marquiss , Earl , or Viscount , ought to be named by their Names of Dignity . Cambden , fol. 1692. saith , That our Common Laws do not allow a Baron one of the Degrees of Nobility : But I take it to be understood of Barons by Tenure , or Barons by Writ only : For the Title of a Baron by Patent is in his Letters Patents under the Great Seal of England adorned by the name of Status , Gradus , Dignitas ; and therefore is requisite to be named : And such Dignities are a parcel of the Name of the Pohenor , as well as the Title and Style of a Duke , Marquiss , Earl , or Viscount . And although there may be conceived this Difference last mentioned between the Baron by Tenure or Writ , and the Baron by Patent ; yet they being all Members of the higher House of Parliament , they are thereby equally made Noble , Honourable , and Peers of the Realm , as they are Barons , without any other distinction . The Etymology of the Name of Baron . MAny Writers have laboured to place the Etymology and signification of this word , wherein ( following too much their own Fantasies ) they have bred much variation of Opinion . As for Etymology of words , I agree with him that saith it is , Levis & fallax Effigies Illustrissimi Dnī Caecilij Calvert , Baronis BALTEMORE de Baltemore in Regno Hibernice ; Absoluti Dnī et Proprietarij Provinciarum Terrae-Mariae et Avaloniae in America etc a. Abra : Blotling sculp The Right Honourable George Lord Nevill Baron of Aberg●venny in Monmouthshire ●● The Right Honourable Iames Lord Tou●hett Baron Audley of H●leigh in England , and Earle of Castle ha●en in Ireland &c a. The Right Honourable Charles Lord We●● Baron De la Ware in Hantshire : The Right Honourable George Lord Berkley of Berkley &c a. descended from Harding a yonger sone of one of the Danish Kings Who came in with William ye. Conquerour &c a The Right Honourable Thomas Lord Parker , Baron Morley , and Monteagl● in Lancashire . The Right honourable Conyers Lord D'Arcy , Baron D'Arcy , and Menil , in Yorkshire . The Right Honourable Benjamin Lord Mildmay Baron Fitzwater . The Right Honourable William Lord Sturton , Baron Sturton of Sturton , in Wiltshire . The Right Honourable Henry Lord Sandis , Baron Sandis of the Vine in Hantshire . The Right Honourable Thomas● Lord Windsor , Lord Leivetenant of Worcestersh ; and one of the Lords of his Ma ●●s . most honble . Privy Councel for the Kingdome of Ireland . The Right Honourable Thomas Lord Cromwell , Baron of Oakham in Rutlandsh : and Earle of Arglast , & Viscount Lecaile , in the Kingdome of Ireland . The Right honble . Ralph Lord Eure , Baron of Wilton in the County of Northumberland . & ct . The Right Honourable Phillip L●●● Wharton Baron of Wharton in The County of Westmoreland . The Right Honourable Iohn Lord 〈◊〉 Baron Willoughby of Parh●m in Lincolnshire : The Right Honourable William Lor● Pag●●● 〈◊〉 of Beaudefert in the County of Stafford : The Right Honourable Charles Lo●● 〈◊〉 of Cartlidge in ye. County of Can●●r●●● and Baron Grey of Roleston : The Right Honourable William Lord Bruges , Baron Chandois of Sudley Castle in Glocester shire . The Right Honourable Iames Lord Bertue , Baron Norris of Rycott in Oxford shire , brother to the Right Honourable Robert Earle of Lindsey & ct . The Right Honourable William Petre , Baron of Writtle in Essex . The Right Honourable Digby Gerard , Baron of Gerards● Bromley in Staffordshire . The Right honble . Charles Lord Stanhope , Baron of Harrington in the County of Northampton &c a. The Right honble Henry Lord Arundell , Baron of Wardure in Wiltshire , and Count of the Empire . The Right Honourable Christopher Lord Roper , Baron . Tenham of Tenham in Kent . The Right Honourable Robert Grevill , Baron Brook of Beauchamps : Court in Warwickshire , Ld. Leivtenant of Staffordshire . The Right Honourable Edward Lord Montague of Boughton , decended from Simon Montague of Houghton who was brother to Iohn Earle of Salisbury . The Rt. honble . Ralph Lord Grey Baron of Warke &c ● of whose family was Sr. Iohn Grey who for his good service in France was by King Henry the 5th . created Earle of Tangverville in the said Kingdome . The Right Honourable Iohn Lord Roberts , Baron of Truro in Cornwall , and one of the Lords of his maties . most Honourable Privy Councell . &c a. The Right Honourable Iohn Lovelace , Baron of Hurley in Barkshire . The Right Honourable Iohn Lord Poulet , Baron of Hinton St. George in Somerset shire . The Right Honourable William Maynard , Baron of Estaines in Essex , and Baron Maynard of Wicklow in Ireland , Comptroler of his Mtys . household , and one of the Lords of his most Honourable privy Councell The Right Honourable George Coventry , Baron of Alesborough in Worcestershire . The Right Honourable Thomas Howard , Baron of Escricke in Yorkshire . The Right honble . Charles Lord Mohun , Baron Mohun of Okehampton in Devonshire the Right honble . Edward Lord Herbert , Baron of Cherbury in Montgomeryshire , and of Castle Island in Ireland , and one of the Lords of his maty● . most honble . privy Councell for the Kingdom of Ireland● The Right honble . Thomas Lord Leigh . Baron Leigh of Stoneley in Warwick-shire The Right honble . Richard Lord Biron , Baron of Rachdale in Lancashire The Right honble . Christopher Lord Hatton , Baron of Kirby in Northamptonsh : Governor of the Isle of Gemsey & ct . The Right honble : Richard Lord Vaughan Baron of Emlyn in England , and Earle o● Carbery in Ireland . and one of the Lds . of his Majestys most honble : Privy Councell : The Right honble . Francis Lord Carrington , Baron of Wotton in Warwicksh , & Viscount B●rreford in the Kingdome of Ireland . The Right honble . William Lord Widdrington of Widdrington Castle in Northumberland and Baron of Blackney in ye. County of Lincolne . The Right Honourable Edward Lord Ward , Baron of Bermingham in the County of Warwick The Right honble : Thomas Lord Culpeper Baron of Thornsway in Kent . The Right honble . Iacob Lord Astley , Baron of Reding in Berkshire . The Right Honourable Charles Lord Lucas , Baron of Shenfeild in the County of Essex . the Right honble . John Lord Belasis , Baron of Worlabye in Lincolnshire the Right honble . Edward Watson , Baron Rockingham of Rockingham in Northamtonshire , son of Lewis Lord Rockingham by the Lady Elianor sister to Iohn Earle of Rutland now living . An. 1625 The Right Honourable Charles Lord Gerard , Baron of Brandon in Suffolk Gentleman of his matys . Bedchamber The Right honble . Robert Sutton , Baron Lexington of Axam in Nottingham shire The Right Honourable Charles Henry Lord Kirkhoven Baron . Wotton of Wotton in Kent . The Right Honourable Marmaduke Lord Langdale Baron of Holme Langdale in Westmorland . The Right honble : William Lord Crofts Baron of Saxham in Suffolk O●e of the Gentlemen of his matys . Bedchamber The Right honble Iohn● Lord Berhley Baron of Stratton in Somersetshire One o● the Lords of his Majestys most honble Privy Councell . The Right honble . Denzell Lord Holles Baron of Ifield in Sussex , Lord high Steward of the Honors Manor s , and Revenews of the Queens , Custos Rotolorum of Dorset shire . The Right Honourable Charles Lord Cornwallis , Baron of Eye in Suffolke &c a. The Rt. honble . George Lord Booth , Baron De la Mer of Dunham : Massey in Cheshire &c a. The Right Honourable Horatio Lord Townesend Baron of Linn Regis in the County of Norfolke , & . Lord Leivetenant of the said County &c a. The Right Honourable Iohn Lord Crew , Baron of Stean in Northampton shire . The Right Honourable Iohn Lord Frescheville Baron of Staveley in Derby shire . The Right Honourable Richard Lord Arundell , Baron of Trerife in Cornwall . The Right honble . Thomas Butler , Earle of Oss●ry in Ireland , Baron Butler of More Park in Hereford shire , Eldest Son to his Grace Iames Duke of Ormond , Kt of the Garter , one of the Gentlemen of his matys . Bedchamber and Lords of his most Honourable privy Councell &c a. The Right Honorbl : Hugh Lord Clifford , Baron of Chudleigh in Devon : shire . The Right Honourable Richard Butler , Second son to his Grace Iames Duke of Ormond Earle of Arran , Viscount Tulough , ●nd Baron of Clougrenan in Ireland and one of the Lords of his matys . most Honourable Privy Councell for the said Kingdome and Baron of Weston in England . The Right honble . Heneage Lord ●inch Baron of Doventry Lord High Chancellor of England . & ● a The Rt. honble : Walter Ld. Aston Baron of Forfare in the Kingdome of Scotland whose Father Sr. Walter Aston Kt. of the : Bath & Bart. was in the : 3d : of K. Ch : the : ist : created to the : sd. Dignity . The Right Honourable Coecilius Coluert Baron Baltemore , de Baltemore in the Kingdome of Ireland Absolute Lord and Proprietary of the Provinces of Maryland and Avalon in America . The Right Honourable William Lord Allington , Baron of Killard in the Kingdome of Ireland . The Right Honourable Iohn Lord Baron of Kingstō Ld President of the Province of Connaugh . Comissary generall of ye. Horse for his matys . Army in Ireland and one of the Lds . of his matys . most honble . Privy Councell for ●he said Kingdome . & plerumque ridicula ; for saepe numero ubi proprietas verborum attenditur sensus veritas amittitur . It may leave some use , and serve turn in Schools , but it is too light for Judgment in Law , and for the Seats of Justice . Thomas Aquinas setteth down a more certain Rule , In vocibus videndum , non tam a quo quam ad quid sumatur ; and words should be taken sensu currenti ; for Use and Custome is the best Expositor of the Laws and Words , quem penes arbitrium est , & jus , & norma loquendi , in the Lord Chancellor's Speech , in the Case Postnati , fol. 61. And forasmuch as the word may aptly be applyed to import men of strength , Bracton ( as before appeareth ) not unaptly useth the signification thereof in these words , Sunt & alii potentes sub Rege qui dicuntur Barones , hoc est robur belli . The Antiquity of the Dignity of Barons , and the sundry uses of the Name . IT seemeth that the Dignity was more ancient than the Name ; for in the ancient Constitutions there is no mention made of the name of Barons ; howbeit , the Learned Interpreters do understand that Dignity to be comprehended under those which are there called Valvasores Majores , and afterwards called Capitanei . For of the Valvasors , which are thought to be the Barons Valvasores Minores , and Valvasini , or Valvasores Minimi . The like Dignity ( before the Conquest ) had those which of the English-Saxons were called Thaines . Mills , fol. 28. saith , Barons were in France from the beginning ; nevertheless , the name of Baron was not much used in this Kingdom until the Norman Conquest , after which the word Baron seemeth to be frequently used instead of Thaine amongst the English-Saxons : For as they in general and large signification did sometimes use the same to the sense and meaning , and import of a Freeman , born of a Free Parentage , or such like : So did the Normans use the word Baron , and therefore called their best esteemed Towns and Boroughs by the name of Barons : And so the Citizens of London were called Barons Londonni ; divers ancient Monuments of whom also Britan. maketh mention , fol. 272. & lib. 5. cap. 14. Also there are divers Charters wherein mention is made of such like Barons . And the Barons of Warwick in the Record of Domesday : and unto our time , the Free Burgesses of the Five priviledged Ports ; and for that also divers of the Nobility of Barons , as well Spiritual as Temporal , did in ancient time sit in the Exchequer to determine the matters there arising . The Judges of that Court have been , time out of mind , called Barons of the Exchequer . And ●●lliam de la Poole was created a Baron by King Edward the Third , and made Lord Chief Baron of the Exchequer . Moreover , as the English Saxons had two kinds of Thaines , the like hath been observed as touching Barons ; ●or the King , and the Monarchs of the Realm have their immediate Barons , being the Peers of the Realm : And in like manner certain others of the Nobility , especially the Earls which have Jurisdiction Palatine , and Earls-Marshal , whose Countries have confined upon the Coasts of the Enemy , and had under them for their better defence , a kind of Barons ; as namely under the County Palatine of Chester were these Barons , viz. the Barons of Hilton , Mountale , Molebanck , Shipbrooke , Malpas , Massa , Kinderton , Stockport , &c. The Earldom of Pembroke being first erected by Arnulphus Montgomery that conquered part of Wales ; and therefore the Earl thereof being an Earl-Marshal , had also under him his Barons , as by the Parliament Rolls 18 Edw. 1. doth appear . It hath been therefore a common Opinion received , That every Earldom in times past had under it Ten Barons , and every Baron Ten Knights Fees holden of him ; and that those which have Four Knights Fees were usually called and promoted to the Degree of a Baron . Also Lords and Proprietors of Mannors were , in respect of them in ancient remembrance , called Barons ( but absolutely ) and the Courts of their Mannors called thereof Courts Barons . It resteth now , for the more explanation of the use of the name of Barons , that we call to remembrance that which hath bin afore spoken . That the Custome of our Country is , that if a Baron be created Earl , the eldest Son of the said Earl taketh upon him , in the life time of his Father , the Name and Title of the Barony , although he want the priviledges belonging to a Baron . The Tenor and proper signification of the word Baron . BArons Honourable are of three kinds , viz. by Tenure , by Writ , and by Creation or Patent . As for Barons by Prescription , which some men have spoken of , they are intended to be all one with the Barons by Tenure , or those whose Ancestors , time out of mind , have been called to Parliament by Writ ; for otherwise there are no such to be found as Barons by Prescription only . CHAP. X. Barons by Tenure . BArons by Tenure are those , which do hold any Honour , Castle , or Mannor , as the head of their Barony per Baroniam , which is Grand Ser●eanty . And those Barons by Tenure are of two sorts , Barons Spiritual by Tenure , and Barons Temporal by Tenure . Of Barons Spiritual by Tenure sufficient is said , whereunto may be added , That it appeareth by all the ancient Writers of our Law , as Brittan , Glanvile , Bracton , and the rest , that the Archbishops and Bishops of the Realm in the ancient Saxons days , as well during the time that the Realm was divided into divers Kingdoms , as also after the uniting of them into one Monarchy , were called to Parliament or Assemblies of State as Wisemen ; not so much in respect of their Tenure , for in those days all their Tenures were by a Frank Almoigne ; but especially for that the Laws and Counsels of men are then most currant and commendable , and have a more blessed Issue and Success , where they are grounded upon the Law of God , the Root and Beginning of all true Wisdom And therefore our wise and religious Ancestors called to their General Council , or Wittengemote , or Court of Wisemen ( as they called it ) those chief and principal persons of the Clergy , which by their places and professions , by their Gravities , Learning and Wisdom , might best advise them what was the Law of God's acceptable will and pleasure , that they might frame Laws answerable , or at least wise not contrary and repugnant thereunto . And touching the Temporal Barons by Tenure , mention is made of them in the Books of Law , Records , and ancient Monuments of the Realm ; and these Baronies were anciently uncertain , and rentable at the pleasure of the King. But such incertainty was brought to certainty by the Statute of Magna Charta , chap. 2. Bracton doth make express mention of Barons Temporal by Tenure ; it shall be needful here again to remember the former assertion of Bracton , That the head of a Barony descending to Daughters should not be divided by partition , which argueth likewise the Tenure of Barony . But let us descend to other Authority , viz. the Book-Case in the 48 Edw. 3. fol. 30. Sir Ralph Everdon's Case ; by which Case of Law 't is most evidently proved that there are Barons by Tenure , which in regard of such their Tenure , ought to be summoned to Parliament . And furthermore , That there were or are Barons by Tenure , read the Statute of Westminster 2. cap. 41. where the Fees of the Earl-Marshal and the Lord Chamberlain are expressed , which are to be taken by them upon the Homage done of every Baron by Tenure , whether the Baron holdeth by a whole Barony , or by a less . But here ariseth a Question ; If a Baron by Tenure alien and grant away the Honour , Castle , and Mannor holden by Barony , whether shall such Alien or Grauntee take upon him the State , Title , and Dignity of a Baron , or not ? Or what shall become of such Dignity of Baronage after such Alienation and Grant made ? They which do deny that there are any such Baronies by Tenure , do use these as their principal Motives or Reasons : First , If there be any Baronies by Tenure , then the Alience or Grantee of such Honour , Castle , and Mannor so holden , must hold by the same Tenure that his Grantor or Feoffer before held ; but that was by Barony , therefore such Grantee must hold by Barony : And if such Grant or Alienation be made to persons Vulgar or Ignoble , then should such Tenure be made Noble , which were very absurd , and full of inconveniency ; for Ornanda potius est dignitate domus , quam ex domo dignitas , utcunque quibus quaerenda est , ab iis honestanda . Milles peroration . 3. Secondly , It is very evident and manife , stthat many ancient Mannors , which in old time were holden by Baronage , and were the head of Baronies , are now in the Tenures of mean Gentlemen , and others , who neither may , nor do challenge unto themselves in any respect hereof any Nobility , without the great favour of the King 's most Excellent Majesty , who is the Fountain of all Honour within his Dominions . Thirdly , Some ancient Barons there are that have aliened and sold many of those Castles and Mannors which did bear the Name and Dignity of Baronage ; and yet themselves do still retain , and lawfully keep their Estate , Dignity and Degree of Baron , and have been , and usually are , such Alienations notwithstanding , summoned nevertheless to the Parliament , and there do take and hold their ancient place accordingly . To these Objections it shall be convenient , for the more easie unfolding the s●ate of this Question , to exhibit certain necessary distinctions , and upon them to draw true and infallible Conclusions ; and then to prove them by authority of Law , consent of Time , and manifold Presidents : which done , the Answer will be presently made ( as I conceive ) to every of the aforesaid Objections . First therefore , If a Baron by Tenure , which holdeth any Castle , Honour , or Mannor by Baronage , do Alien o● give the same away , he doth it either with or without a Licence obtained from his Majesty for the same . If he doth it without a Licence , then the Conclusion is certain . But by the Laws of this Realm the Barony , Honour , Castle , or Mannor so aliened without licence or consent , is for●eited ; and the same Honour , Castle , and Mannor ●o ●olden by Barony , and so aliened , is to ●e seized in the King's hands ; and the ●aid Forfeiture , and such Dignity and Estate no longer to be born and continue , but to be resumed and extinguished in the Crown , from whence it was derived . The reason therefore is notable , if we call to remembrance that which was formerly alledged out of Bracton , That Baronies are the strength of the Realm , and suffer no division , they suffer also no alienation without the consent or licence of the Sovereign Monarch ; for so should the Realm be infeebled , and base persons ennobled without desert of Vertue or Prowess : For where the thing so aliened is an Honour or Head of a Barony , it differeth much from the ordinary Tenure in Capite , whereof , if the Tenant make Alienation without Licence , he is only to pay a Fine by the Statute of 1 Edw. 3. cap. 12. whereof also before the making of the Statute , there was diversity of Opinions at the Common Law after the Statute of Magna Charta , cap. 31. And for further proof see Glanvile . In Edward the Third , certain Lands being parcel of the Barony of Bremberway were aliened by William de Browse the Baron thereof , without the King's Licence , and in the Argument of the Case concerning the same , Judge Green delivered this for Law. First , That parcel of a Barony or Earldom of the King in chief cannot be aliened or dismembred without his Licence ; and if it be , it shall be seized , into the King's hands as forfeited , and the King shall be seized thereof in his own right again . In 43 Edw. 3. it was found by an Office , that William Bishop of Chester had leased unto one Iohn Preston , for his Life , a Mannor which was parcel of the Mannor of the said Bishoprick without Licence , and it was resolved by the Judges , and others of the King's Council , That the same was forfeited ; but by mediation of the said Council the Bishop submitted himself to the King , and made a Fine , and several Scire Facias's issued out against them that had received the many pro●its , to answer unto the King thereof . And thus much concerning Alienations of Baronies without Licence . But on the other part , if a Baron by Tenure who holds any Honour , Castle , or Mannor by Barony , do grant or alien the same by Licence , I must again distinguish : for either such Alienation is made for the continuance of his Barony , Honour , Lands , and Tenements in his own Name , Blood , and Issue Male ; or else the same Alienation is made for Money or other Recompence , or otherwise to a meer Stranger : and hereof ensueth this second Conclusion or Assertion , That if such Alienation be made for the continuance of his Barony in his Name and Blood , or Issue Male ( as many have made the like ) then may such Is●ue Male , together with the Barony ( be it Ca●●e , Honour , or Mannor so hold●n ) hold , and law●ully enjoy the Name , Style , Title and Dignity of a baron . Moreover concerning the second Objection , It is very true that many ancient Mannors which were in times past holden by Barony , are now in the hands of Gentlemen , mean and ignoble by blood , who neither do , or may claim any Nobility or Honour thereby . But there hath been some former Gifts made by the King's Progenitors to such as they honoured in augmentation and support of their Honour , and for honourable Services , should thus come to the hands of mean personages , are twosold : First , For that such Mannors have been aliened by Licence unto such persons before spoken , of whom such Possessions alone cannot make Noble . Secondly , And that was usually such Mannors as were in ancient time holden by Barony , that have upon divers occasions come to the Crown , were extinct ; and after the same Lands were given or conveyed to others , reserving other Services than those which at the first were due ●or the same , so that it was no marvel that some Mannors anciently holden by Barony , or other honourable Service , should now be holden in Soccage , or by other mean Tenure . As to that which was thirdly Objected , That some ancient Barons there are which have aliened and sold away those Castles and Mannors of which they have and do bear the Name and Dignity , and yet still themselves do retain and lawfully keep the Dignity and Degree of a Baron , and have been , and are called to Parliament notwithstanding such alienation . To that I Answer , That it is true ; but it proveth nothing against the former Resolution , and therefore for better satisfaction of this point , it is to be considered , that either such Barons are original Barons by Writ , or Barons by Tenure . Barons by Writ ( in this respect now in hand ) are of two kinds ; for either in such Writ whereby they are , or their Ancestors were first summoned , they were only named by their own Names , or else there was addition given them of the principal place of their abode , which was done for distinction sake , either to sever them from some honourable person of the same Name ; or else to give them such honourable Title by addition of the place , which place notwithstanding was not holden by Barony : And therefore if such a Baron do alien away that place which was antiently his Seat , he may nevertheless retain his honourable Title , no respect had of such place . But if a Baron by Tenure do alien away the Honour , Castle , or Mannor holden by Barony unto a mean person not capable of Honour , and by sufficient Licence so to do ; and after the Alienor which made such Alienation , be called by Writ to Parliament under the Title , or as a Baron to such Honour , Castle , or Mannor so aliened that away which he held by Barony . But thenceforth , after such Writ of Summons he is become a Baron by Writ , such Alienation notwithstanding , forasmuch as the Writ directeth at the pleasure of the Prince , doth give unto him that Addition of Name and Dignity . And thus much touching the Resolution of the said Question , and satisfaction of the said Objections , and of Barons by Tenure . CHAP. XI . Barons by VVrit , which is the second kind of Barons mentioned in the former Division of Barons . A Baron by Writ , is he unto whom a Writ of Summons , in the Name of the King , is directed , to come to the Parliament appointed at a certain time and place to be holden , and there with his Majesty , the Prelates , and Nobility , to treat and advise about the weighty affairs of the Nation ; which Writ is much to the effect of the aforementioned Writ in the Title of Earl , and which kind of Writ is as well directed to the Barons of Tenure , as by Creation by Patents : But those that are not Barons by Tenure , nor by Patent , and have only such Writs , after the receipt of such Writ , and place taken in Parliament accordingly , ought to enjoy the Name and Dignity of Barons . Touching the Antiquity of Barons by Writ only , and the first institution thereof , I find little or no mention before the Reign of King Henry the Third ; and therefore I conceive that either the first , or at least the first frequent use of such Barons was had , and devised 49 Hen. 3. in case of necessity , and upon a commendable occasion : For in the disorder between the King and his Nobility in those troublesome Wars , where Seditions and Rebellions were stirred up by them against the said King , there were many great Battels fought , to the effusion of much Blood , of which said Rebellions the Right Honourable Simon Earl of Exeter , was Ring-leader for the Defence of their Liberties ( as pretended ) granted by Magna Charta , and Charter of the Forest ( which are even to this day the principal Grounds of the positive Law , and are the most ancient Statutes now in use amongst us ) And for the defence of other Constitutions and Ordinances then made at Oxford : And after divers Fields sought betwixt them at Northampton , Rochester , Lewes , and other places ; last of all was the Catastrophe of that Tragedy finished at Eveshalm or Easam in Worcestershire , where the said Earl was slain , the King gained the Victory , and the rebellious Barons received their overthrow : Upon which presently ensued the Parliament holden at Winchester in Hantshire , and afterwards at Westminster , where such of the Barons as were slain in the Field against the King , and such others of them as were taken Prisoners , or made their escape by flight , were to be attainted , and disinherited of their Estates . And the Number of Barons who had continued faithful unto their Soveraign being small , it was deemed a necessary policy , to supply the number of the diminished Barons with other persons of known worth , wisdom , and repute ; by reason whereof there were called at those Parliaments the Abbots and Priors of the Realm , as well those that held not by Barons , as others ; and divers others of the most worthy Laity not holding by Barony ; and these by means thereof were thenceforth Barons by Writ ; but certain of the said Abbots and Priors , which held not by Barony , and thought it a burthen to their Houses , got themselves ( upon Petition ) afterwards to be exempted , as by divers Records thereof remaining in the Chancery may appear . This moreover is to be noted concerning the Writ of Summons to Parliament , that those Writs in form of their directions are divers , some directed by special Name of Barons , as Rex , &c. Edmundo Baroni de Stafford , Iohanni Baroni de Graystock , Iohanni Baroni de Dudley , Edwardo Nevill Baroni Abergaveny , as it was in the Reign of King Iames. Some other are summoned by Name of the party , with addition of the place ( as Iohanni Strange de Knocking , Militi , Edwardo Gray de Groby , Militi , Iohanni le Scroop de Masham , Militi , Willielmo Souch de Harringworth , Militi ) the chief Castle or Mannor of such Baron , which always stands afterwards for the head place of the Barony , whereof the said Baron and his Heirs shall be surnamed , and called , and shall continue that name of place , although he do alien away the same , as aforesaid . ) Some others are named with the Title of Lord , as Sir Hugh Bramsteed , by Writ of the 27 th of Henry the Sixth , was styled Lord Veysey . Iohan. Beauchamp Domino de Beauchamp Iohanni Domino de Clynton . To some others the Writ is directed only by their Name , without any addition of place or dignity , as William de Lovell , Mil. William Devereux , Mil. &c. But the Nature , Quality , and Addition of those Barons by Writ is aptly discovered by the debate of a Question moved often amongst men , and spoken of concerning the continuance and descent of a Barony by Writ ; which Question , for the more orderly disposition thereof , I shall divide into these Heads or Points . Question . First , Whether a Barony by Writ may descend from the Ancestor to the Heir , or not ? Secondly , Admit such a Barony may descend , then , Whether it doth descend to the Heirs , although not so near as the Heir Female ? Thirdly , Admit it doth descend to the Heirs Female ; then , Whether may the Husband of such an Heir Female take upon him the Name , Style , and Dignity of such a Barony in right of his Wife , or no ? Those therefore that maintain the Negative , that such a Barony shall not descend , do strengthen themselves with these or the like Arguments , viz. The first Argument , Whether a Barony by Writ may descend ? Nobility and Honour , which are given in respect of Wisdom , Connsel , and Advise , cannot extend to any other person , or descend from one man to another ; for it is a Rule in Law , That Privilegium personae personam sequitur , & extinguitur cum persona : But such is the Dignity of a Baron ; therefore it is reason that it should not descend from the Ancestor to the Heir . The second Argument . Again , If the calling of the Parliament by Writ be the sufficient instrumental cause of such Nobility to the Ancestor , the not calling of the Heir is a loss of that Nobility : For if the Heir have defects of Nature in him , as Idiotsie , Frensie , Leprosie , or the like , whereby he is become unfit for Counsels and Conversations , for what reason should he enjoy that Dignity , whereof he is either unworthy or uncapable ? for the effect hath no place where the cause faileth : and hereof they conclude that such Dignities of Baronies by Writ should not descend . If on the contrary part , the Affirmation is thus proved . Honour , which is given in respect of Wisdom and Vertue of him on whom it was first bestowed , is not only a due recompence for himself whilst he lived , but also a memorable Reward thereof to Posterity . The words of Cicero to this effect are most excellent , Homines bonos semper nobilitate favimus , & quia utile republicae est nobiles esse & homines dignos majoribus suis , & quia valere debet apud nos claros hujusmodi senes fuisse , è republica moveretur memoria & mortucrum Honor. Therefore this kind of Honour is Patrimonial and Hereditary ; for things which are once granted unto a man by the King for his Honour , are not again to be returned to his loss and disgrace , or to his Heirs . The second Argument . Secondly , If the Infamy of the Father be a blot to the Posterity , as the Wiseman Solomon affirmeth , The Children complain for an ungodly Father , they are reproved for his sake ; and for that also the Law of the Realm doth corrupt the blood of the Posterity by and upon the Offence of the Ancestor ; Reason would also be , that the Honour of the Ancestor should be likewise Honour to the Posterity ; for contraries do also carry their contrary Reason . For the determination whereof 't is to be noted , that diversity of Reason hath bred diversity of Opinion . Some there are that do speak , That the Dignity of a Baron by Writ is not discendable from the Ancestor unto the Heir , unless the Heir be likewise called by Writ to Parliament , and that then it becometh an Inheritance , and not before . But this Assertion is repugnant to the nature of Descent , which for the most part doth carry a Patrimony descendable by act of Law presently upon the death of the Ancestor unto the Heir not at all . Wherefore the Custom of the Country , and the manifest Presidents do prove , that this kind of Baronies doth descend from the Ancestor to the Heir , and there needeth not any word of Heir in the Writ of Summons ; only one President there is in a special Writ sometime directed to Sir Henry Bromfleet in the 27 th of Henry the Sixth , wherein he was styled Lord Veysey , and wherein there are these words inserted , Volumus tamen vos & haeredes vestros de corpore vestro ligitime enatos Barones de Veysey existentes . Wherefore it is very true , that when the Heir of any such Baron by Writ is called to the Parliament , that his Descent of Honour is thereby established and approved of by the gracious Judgment of our Sacred Sovereign : So it is also true , that if it shall stand with his Majesties pleasure , that such an Heir shall not be summoned at all , then that Nobility is much impaired , and in a manner extinguished in the censure of all men ; for that it hath no other original but by a Writ of Summons , from the which by the Judgment of the Supream Sovereign he is excluded . As to the second principal point , Whether the Barony by Writ may descend to the Heir Female , it shall not be amiss likewise to shew the Reasons on either part , that by conflict of Argument the truth may the better be discovered . Those that maintain the Affirmative part , do say , That in reason the Sex of the Heir Female ought no more to barr her Dignity , than the Nonage of the Heir Male ought to barr him , though during his Nonage he be unable to do the Service . But as the Service of the one is for time forborn , so the Sex of the other may at all times be supplied by the maturity of her Husbands Offices of Honour , which do much import the Commonweal , being passed by Inheritance , do descend to the Heir Female , as the Office of the High Constableship of England , which descended unto the Daughter of Hum. de Bohun Earl of Hereford and Essex . Also the Office of the Lord Steward descended to Blanch , Daughter of Henry Earl of Lancaster . The like may be said of the Office of Earl-Marshal , which descended by an Heir Female to the House of Norfolk . All which Offices are as unsit to be exercised by a woman , as for a Woman to be summoned by Writ to the Parli●ment as a Baroness , &c. Many Noble Houses also in England do support and lawfully bear the Dignity of a Baronage unto them descended by a Woman . The first Argument contra . They which stand of the Negative part in this Controversie , do encounter their Adversaries in this manner , viz. The Writ of Summons to the Parliament , whereby the Baron by Writ hath his Original , is to call that Honourable and Worthy Person so summoned to the number of that Right , High , and Honourable Assembly , and to be a Judge , to sit , hear , and determine Life and Member , Plea and right of Land , if there shall come occasion : likewise to give Counsel and Advise in the most mighty Affairs of the Realm : But these things are convenient for the quality and condition of men ; unfitting , and altogether unbeseeming the Sex of women . Ergo , having respect unto the scope and final purpose of such Writs , such Inheritances should only descend unto the Heir Female . The Second Argument contra . Secondly , If it shall be answered , That although the Heir Female , to whom such Inheritance is descended , be unfit in her own person for the accomplishing of these things ; yet she may marry with one sufficiently able for her , and in her behalf to execute the same . This Answer will neither satisfie nor salve the inconveniences : For admit that such an Heir Female were at full Age at the death of her Ancestor , unmarried ; for it doth lye in her own choice then whom shall be her Husband . The Third Argument contra . Thirdly , If such Husband shall be called by the right of his Wife , the Writ shall make some mention thereof ; for otherwise it may well be taken that the Husband was chosen in his own person , and in behalf of himself , and not in regard of his wife , or such pretended Dignity descended unto him . But there was never such a Writ of Summons seen wherein the wife was mentioned . And if the husband of such a wife have been called to the Parliament ( which is always by General Writ ) not mentioning his wife , he is thereby made a Baron of himself by virtue of the said Writ . Having thus heard both sides to dispute place , it doth now require to interpose Opinion to compound the Controversie . This point in que●tion is somewhat perplexed by means of difficult Presidents : For first it is observed , That some Presidents do prove that Baronies by Writ have descended unto Heirs Female , whose husbands have been called to Parliament , whether in regard of themselves , or in respect of their wives right , it maketh no matter : but since it is , that the marriage of such Ladies gave that occasion to be summoned , and such husbands and their Po●●erity have and do lawfully bear the same Title of Dignity , which the Ancestors of such a wife did before rightfully bear : For by this Controversie the●e is no purpose to call the right of such Noble Houses into question . Howbeit , Secondly , this is to be observed out of the Presidents , and to be acknowledged of every dutiful Subject , That the King's Majesty is nevertheless at liberty to call to his High Council of Parliament , whom he shall in his Princely Wisdom think fit , which by his Majestie 's Noble Progenitors have in former Ages likewise observed . And therefore whereas Ralph Lord Cromwell , being a Baron by Writ , died without Issue , having two Sisters and Coheirs , Elizabeth the eldest , who married Sir Thomas Nevile Knight , and Ioan the younger , who married Sir Humphrey Butcher Knight , who was called to Parliament as Lord Cromwell , and not the said Sir Thomas . Thirdly , It is to be observed , That if a Baron by Writ die without Heir Male , having his Daughter , Sister , or other Collateral Heir Male that can challenge the Land of the said Baron deceased by any ancient entail , or otherwise , the Title of such an Heir Female hath heretofore been allowed , as by the honourable Opinions and Relations of the Right Honourable the late Commissioners in the Office of Earl-Marshal , signified unto the late Queen , upon Petition of the Sister and Heir of Gregory Lord Dacres deceased , may appear . Moreover , in the same Pedigree of the Lord Dacres it was expressed , That Thomas , sometimes Lord Dacres , had issue Thomas his eldest Son , Ralph his Second , and Humphrey his third . Thomas , the eldest , died in the life of his Father , having issue Ioan Daughter and Heir , who was married to Sir Richard Fines Knight , and after Thomas Lord Dacres his Grandfather , and Father to the said Ralph and Humphrey , died ; after whose death Henry the Sixth , by his Letters Patents bearing date at Westminster the Seventh of November , in the Seventh year of his Reign , reciting the said Pedigree and Marriage , doth by his said Letters Patents accept , declare , and repute the said Richard Fines to be Lord Dacres , and one of the Barons of the Realm . But afterwards , in the time of Edward the Fourth , the said Humphrey Dacres , after the attainder of the said Ralph , and himself by an Act of Parliament , which was the first of Edward the Fourth ; And after the death of the said Ralph , and the Reversal of the said Act by another Act in the Twelfth of Edward the Fourth , the said Humphrey made challenge unto the said Barony , and unto divers Lands of the said Thomas his Father , whereupon both parties , after their Title had been considered of in Parliament , submitted themselves to the Arbitrement of King Edward the Fourth , and entred into Bond each to other for the performance thereof ; whereupon the said King , in his Award under his Privy Seal , bearing date at Westminster the Eighth of April , Anno Regni sui decimo tertio , did Award that the said Richard Fines , in the right of Ioan his wife , and the Heirs of his body by the said Ioan begotten , should keep , have , and use the same Seat and Place in every Parliament , as the said Thomas Dacres Knight , Lord Dacres , had used and kept ; and that the Heirs of the body of the said Thomas Dacres Knight , then late Lord Dacres , begotten , should have and hold to them and to their Heirs the Mannor of Holbeach . And further , That the said King Edward did Award on the other part , that the said Humphrey Dacres Knight , and the Heirs Males of the said Thomas , late Lord Dacres , should be reputed , had , named , and called the Lord Dacres of Gillesland ; and that he , and the Heirs Males of the body of the said Thomas , then late Lord Dacres , should have , use , and keep the place in Parliament next adjoyning beneath the said place , which the said Richard Fines Knight , Lord Dacres , then had and occupied . And that the Heirs of the body of the said Ioan his wife shall have and enjoy , and that the Heirs Males of the said Thomas Dacres , late Lord Dacres , should have to them and the Heirs Males of their bodies begotten , the Mannor of Iothington , &c. And so note , that the name of the ancient Barony , namely Gillesland , remained unto the Heir Male to whom the Land was entailed . Moreover this is specially observed , If any Baron by Writ do die , having no other Issue than Female , and that by some special entail , or other assurance , there be an Heir Male which doth enjoy all or great part of the Lands , Possessions , and Inheritances of such Baron deceased , the Kings have used to call to the Parliament by Writ , as Baron , such Heir Male , omitting the Husband of the Issue of such Heir Female . And this also appeareth by a notable Controversie in the time of Henry the Seventh , between Sir Robert Willoughby Lord Brook , and Richard Lord Lattimer , for the Barony of Lattimer , which in effect was ; The said Lord Brook did challenge the Barony of Lattimer , as Co●in and Heir of Elizabeth his Great-grandmother , who was Sister and Heir of Iohn Nevill Lord Lattimer , who died without Issue : And hereupon exhibited a Petition to Henry the Seventh in Parliament ; whereunto Richard Lord Lattimer was called to answer , because he then enjoyed the said Title and Dignity . The said Richard Lord Lattimer did by his Answer shew , That after the death of the said Iohn Nevill Lord Lattimer without Issue , the said Elizabeth was his Sister , and next Heir , and married unto Thomas Willoughby Knight , second Son of the Lord Willoughby . But Henry the Sixth , for that the said Iohn Nevill Lord Lattimer was dead without Issue , and that the next Heir was Female , did therefore call to the Parliament George Nevill Knight , second Son of Henry Earl of Westmoreland , to be Lord Lattimer , as Cosin and next Heir Male of the said Iohn Nevill Lord Lattimer ; which George was Grandfather of the said Richard Lord Lattimer , Father of the said Richard. In debate of which cause , the Question now in hand , namely , Whether a Barony by Writ may descend to the Heirs Female ? was advisedly considered of by the King and his Nobility in Parliament , and in the end adjudged with the said Richard Lord Lattimer ; which President doth afford us two Judgments in this point : And in the time of Henry the Sixth , when the Writ was directed to the said Sir George Nevill Knight , whereby he was summoned as Lord Lattimer to the Parliament , and as Heir Male , and not the said Thomas Willoughby Knight , husband of the said Elizabeth , Heir Female . And the second Judgment was given in the time of Henry the Seventh , whereby the said Barony was adjudged to the said Richard Lord Lattimer , coming out of the special Heir Male , against the Lord Brook , descended of the general Heir Male. But here in this President before remembred of the Barony of Dacres , may be objected to encounter this Conclusion ; for there was an Heir Female married unto Sir Richard Fines ; who by the Declaration of King Henry the Sixth , was Baron of Dacres in right of his wife . And there was also Ralph and Humphrey , the Heirs Males , before whom the Heir Female was preferred by the censure of Henry the Sixth , and Edward the Fourth . This Objection is easily answered ; for although Henry the Sixth , through the Princely favour which he bore unto Sir Richard Fines , had declared him to be Lord Dacres in right of his wife ; yet notwithstanding did Ralph Dacres , being Heir Male then unto the Lord Dacres , and by that name was attainted in Parliament Anno primo Hen. 4. Wherefore the reason why the Heir Male could not be regarded was the said Attainder of the said Ra●ph and Humphrey his brother ; and therefore when Humphrey in the 12 th of Edward the Fourth , laboured to have the said Attainder Reversed , he submitted himself to the Arbitrement of the King , who to satisfie both Competitors , both having deserved of him after he had admitted them to his favour , he allowed one to be Lord Dacres , and the other to be the Lord Dacres of Gillesland . And thus much concerning the second Point , Whether a Barony by Writ may descend unto the Heir Female . The third Point . As concerning the third Point , admitting such Descent to be to the Heir Female , when there is no Heir Male that may claim the same ; for then doth this Question take place , Whether the husband of such an Heir Female shall enjoy the Dignity in right of his wife , or no ? Wherein we are to rest upon a Resolution had and given to this special Question , which was in this manner . In the time of Henry the Eighth , when Mr. Winby took upon him the style of Lord Talbois in right of his wife , having no Issue by her ; The said King , assisted both by Civil and Temporal Lawyers , gave Sentence , That no husband of a Baroness , in her right , should use that Style and Dignity , until he had by her a Child , whereby she should become Tenant by Courtesie unto her Inheritance . The special Reasons that occasioned this Sentence , were two . First , It should be convenient for her husband this day to be a Baron and a Peer of the Realm , and to morrow , by the death of his wife , to become none , and without the default of the party . Secondly , If he had Issue by wife , and were entituled to be Tenant by the Courtesie of England of his wives Lands , if he shall not also bear the Style and Dignity of his Wives Barony , then should the Son , after the death of his mother , dying in the life time of his father , be a Baron and Lord without Land ; for so the father should have the Land as Tenant by Courtesie , and the Son the Lordship without Land. And thus much said concerning the Nature , Quality , and Estate of a Baron by Writ , and for the Resolution of the several points and Articles of the Question proposed , may suffice . CHAP. XII . Barons by Patent , which is the third kind of Barons mentioned in the former Division of Barons . THere is also a fourth means of Creation , viz. by Act of Parliament : but the first two mentioned , and this other by Patent , is most usual for the Honour of the King ; for thereby the Donation doth proceed from his Majesty only , as from the Fountain of Honour : But when the Creation is by Parliament , the King ever is one , and may be said to be Donor . A Baron therefore by Creation by reason of Letters Patents , is that noble Person whom the King , or any of his Progenitors , Kings of this Realm , have created Baron by such their Letters Patents , began in the Reign of King Richard the Second . This kind of Dignity of a Baron shall be of such continuance in Descent , or otherwise , as shall be limited in the Habendum in such Letters Patents contained : for it may be but for the life of him to whom it is given , or for term vanter vie , as some hold Opinion in the 32 of Hen. 6. for cujus est dare est disponere . It may be in special in our general Tayl ; and this kind of Tayl was usual before the Statute made decimo tertio of Edw. 1. by which Estate Tayl of Lands and Tenements was created , as appeareth by the Patent whereby Hubert de Burgo was made Earl of Kent in the time of Henry the Third , by these words ; Habendum sibi & haeredibus suis de corpore Margaretae uxoris sui , sorors Alexandri Regis Scotiae , procreatis , & pro defectu talis exitus remanere in directis haeredibus dicti Huberti . And that Estates intayl are at this Day of Titles of Honour by the said Statute of Westminster the second . Question . If a Nobleman and his Progenitors have for a long time been called to Parliament , and be a Baron either by Tenure or Writ , and have had in regard thereof a place certain in Parliament ; if afterwards the said Nobleman should be created a Baron of that Barony , and by the same name by Letters Patents , whether shall he and his Heirs retain his old place in Parliament , which he had according to his former Dignity ; or whether shall he lose his old place , and take a new one , according to the time of his Creation ? Answer . The Case of the Lord Delaware lately erected a Resolution somewhat answerable to this Question : Thomas Delaware in the third of Edward the Sixth , being in some displeasure with William West his Heir and Nephew , who was Father to Thomas late Lord Delaware , and Grandfather to Henry Lord Delaware that Nevis procured by Act of Parliament , by which the said William West was ; during his natural life only , clearly disabled to claim , demand , or have any manner of Right , Title , or Interest by Descent , Remainder , or otherwise , in or to the Mannors , Lands , Tenements , or Hereditaments , Title and Dignity of Thomas Lord Delaware his Uncle , &c. After the said Thomas Delaware died , and the said William West was in the time of Queen Mary attainted of Treason by Verdict , but pardoned by the said Queen ; and afterwards by Parliament , in the time of Queen Elixabeth , was restored ; and in the fourth year of her Reign was created Lord Delaware by Patent , and took place in Parliament accordingly , for that by the said Act of Parliament of Edward the Sixth , he was excluded to challenge the former ancient Barony ; and after he died . Now whether Thomas Delaware should take his place according to the ancient Barony by Writ , or according to his Father's Creation by Patent , was the Question . The Opinions of the late Queens Council , being his Majestie 's Attorney General and Solicitor , were , That the acceptance of the new Creation by the said William West could not extinguish the ancient Dignity , for that he had not the ancient Dignity in him at that time of his Creation ; but the Dignity was by the Act of Parliament 3 Edw. 6. in the ballance of suspence or consideration of Law , and he thereby utterly disabled to have the same during his life , only so as other acceptance could not extinguish that Dignity which he then had not , nor could not conclude his Heir , who was not disabled by the Parliament 3 Edw. 6. to claim the ancient Barony ; which Opinion of theirs was seen and allowed by the then Chief Justice of England , and Lord Chief Baron , and so signified to the Lord Keeper . But this to be noted by the Reasons made for the said Resolution , though if the said Sir William West had been Baron , and entituled , and in possession of the ancient Dignity , when he accepted the ancient Creation , the Law perchance might have been otherwise ; but that remains as yet unresolved : Nevertheless the Rule is , Eodem modo , quo quid constituitur , dissolvitur . But by a Grant which is but a matter of Fact , a man cannot transfer his Title of Honour . And thus much concerning the Degrees of Barons within this Realm upon this occasion , for the better understanding and direction of that which followeth to be handled . And in this place I think it not impertinent to mention one Case , which I met with in our Books of Common Law , concerning the Descent of a Title of Honour , whereof the Ancestor had Estate in Feesimple ; there is a Maxim in the Law , Possessio fratris in feodo facit sororemesse haeredem : But if a man by any of the three means aforesaid be created into a Title of Dignity to him and his Heirs for ever , and so have Issue by one wife a Son and a Daughter , and hath also a Son by a second wife ; afterwards the Father dieth , and his eldest Son entreth into all his Father's Inheritances , and also enjoyeth the Titles and Dignities which his Father had , but dieth without Issue : In this Case the Dignity shall descend upon the younger Son , though he be but of the half blood to him that last enjoyed that Name and Title of descent , and shall not descend to his Sister of the whole blood . And yet in this case he shall only be her Brother's Heir of all his Feesimple Lands ; and the reason thereof is , because possessio fratris is the name and sole cause which may give Title to her , his Sister , which faileth in this case of Dignity ; for it cannot be said that her elder brother was in possession of his Title of Honour , no more than of his blood ; so as neither by his own act , nor any act to be done by any other , did gain more actual possession ( if so it may be termed ) then by the Law did descend to him : and therefore the younger brother may well by the Law make himself Heir unto his Father of the Honour , that he cannot be heir unto his brother : So that this word [ Possession ] which is no other than pedis positio , extendeth only unto such things of which a man may , by h●s entry , or other act be possessed , and doth require actual possession . Coke's third part , 92. Having thus much treated concerning the Creations , and other things incident to the degrees of Nobility , I cannot omit some things concerning the sufficiency and ability of Estate , which the Law doth require to be in every of them , according to their several Dignities . The Common Law ( which always will decorum and conveniency be observed , considering the Charges and Dignities appertaining to these Degrees and Dignities , being Offices of principal Service to the King and Realm , both in War and Peace ) hath ordered , that each of them ought to have a convenient Portion and Inheritance in Land to support the said Dignity , which Supplies are as Sinews conjoyned in the same : For in Vertue and Riches ( as Aristotle confesseth ) all the old Nobility consisted , and which two Properties maketh a good Complement ; for utilior est sapientia cum divitiis conjuncta . Therefore a Knight's Fee which he ought to have is Twenty pounds Land by the year ; a Baron's thirteen Knights Fees and a quarter ; and an Earl's twenty Knights Fees. For always the fourth part of each Revenues , which is by the Law held requisite for the Dignity , shall be paid to the King for the Relief . As for Example ; the Relief of a Knight is five pounds , which is the one fourth of his Revenue , according to the Statute of the first of Edward the Second . The Relief of a Baron is One hundred Marks , which is also the fourth part of his Revenue . And the Relief of an Earl is One hundred pounds al●o , the fourth part of his Revenue . And it appears by the Records of the Exchequer , that the Relief of a Duke amounteth unto Three hundred pounds . And this is the reason in our Books , that every of the Nobility is presumed in the Law to have sufficient Freehold ad sustinendum nomen & onus . And to what value those ancient Fees in the time of Henry the Third , and Edward the Fourth , at this day do amount unto , most men are not unskilful in , Coke's seventh part , 33. And in Cases of Decay of Ability , and Estate , as Senatores Romani amoti Senatu , so sometimes they are not admitted to the Upper House of Parliament , though they still keep their Title and Dignity . Sir Thomas Smith de Republica A●glorum 22. and by the Statute made 31 Hen. 8. cap. 10. the Lords have their places prescribed after this manner as followeth , viz. These four , the Lord Chancellor , the Lord Treasurer , the Lord President of the Council , and the Lord Privy Seal , being Persons of the Degree of a Baron or above , are in the same Act appointed to sit in Parliament , and in all Assemblies and Councils above all Dukes , not being of the Blood Royal , viz. the King's Uncle , Brother , and Nephew . And these six , viz. the Lord Great Chamberlain of England , the Lord High Constable of England , the Lord Marshal of England , the Lord Admiral of England , the Lord High Steward of his Majesties Houshold , and the Lord Chamberlain also of his M●jesties Houshold , by that Act are to be placed in all Assemblies of Council after the Lord Privy Seal , according to their Degrees : So that if he be a Baron , than he is to sit above all Barons ; or if an Earl , above all Earls . And so likewise the King's Secretaries , being Barons or Earls , have place above all Barons or Earls . PRIVILEDGES Incident to the NOBILITY According to the Laws of England . CHAP. XIII . WHEN a Peer of the Realm , and Lord of the Parliament , is to be Arraigned upon any Trespass or Felony whereof he is indicted , and whereupon he hath pleaded Not Guilty , the King by his Letters Patens shall assign some great and sage Lord of the Parliament to be High Steward of England for the day of his Arraignment , who before the said day shall make a Precept to his Serjeant at Arms , that is appointed to serve him during the time of his Commission , to warn to appear before him Eighteen or Twenty Lords of the Parliament ( or Twelve at the least ) upon the same day . And then at the time appointed , when the High Steward shall be set under the Cloth of Estate , upon the Arraignment of the Prisoner , and having caused the Commission to be read , the same Serjeant shall return his Precept , and thereupon the Lords shall be called ; and when they have appeared , and are set in their places , the Con●●able of the Tower shall be called to bring his Prisoner to the Barr , and the High Steward shall declare to the Prisoner the cause why the King hath assembled thither those Lords , and himself , and perswade him to answer without fear ; and then he shall call the Clerk of the Crown to read his Indictment unto him , and to ask him , if he be Guilty , or not : whereunto when he hath answered Not Guilty , the Clerk of the Crown shall ask him How he will be tryed , and then he will say , By God and his Peers . Then the King's Serjeant and Attorney will give Evidence against him ; whereunto when the Prisoner hath made answer , the Constable shall be commanded to receive the Prisoner from the Barr to some other place , whilst the Lords do secretly confer together in the Court ; and then the Lords shall rise out of their places , and consult amongst themselves , and what they affirm shall be done upon their Honour , without any Oath to be ministred upon them . And when all , or the greatest part of them , shall be agreed , they shall retire to their places , and sit down . Then the High Steward shall ask of the youngest Lord by himself , if he that is Arraigned be Guilty or not of the Offence whereof he is Arraigned , and then the youngest next him , and so of the residue one by one , until he hath asked them all ; and every Lord shall answer by himself . And then the Steward shall send for the Prisoner again , who shall be led to the Barr , to whom the High Steward shall rehearse the Verdict of the Peers , and give Judgment accordingly . The Antiquity and Original of this kind of Tryal , by the opinion of several Authors , is grounded from the Statute of Magna Charta , so called , not in respect of the quantity , but of the weight of it . Coke to the Reader before his eight part , fol. 2. cap. 29. beginning thus , Millus liber homo , &c. nec super eum ibimus , nec super eum mittemus , nisi per legale judicium parium suorum . But I take it to be more ancient than the time of Henry the Third , as brought into the Realm with the Conqueror , being answerable to the Norman and French Laws , and agreeable with the Custom Feudale , where almost all Controversies arising between the Sovereign and the Vassal are tryed per Iudicium parium suorum . And if a Peer of the Realm , upon his Arraignment of Treason , do stand mute , or will not answer directly , Judgment shall be given against him as a Traytor Convict , and he shall not be prest to death , and thereby save the forfeiture of his Lands ; for Treason is out of the Statute of Westminster 1. chap. 12. 15. Ed. 4. 33. Dyer 205. But if he be Arraigned upon Indictment of Felony , he may be mute . This priviledge hath some restraint , as well in regard of the person , as in the manner of proceeding . As touching the person ; first the Archbishops and Bishops of this Realm , although they be Lords of the Parliament , if they be impeached of such offence , they shall not be tryed by the Peers of the Realm , but by a Jury of Knights , and other substantial Persons upon their Oaths ; the reason thereof alledged is so much as Archbishops and Bishops cannot pass in the like cases upon Peers , for that they are prohibited by the Common and Ecclesiastical Laws to be judged of Life and Blood. Reason would that the other Peers should not try them ; for this Tryal should be mutual , forasmuch as it is performed upon their Honours , without any Oath taken . And so by the way you may see the great respect the Law hath to a Peer of the Realm , when he speaketh upon his Honour , even in a case concerning the life of a man , and that of a Peer ; and therefore ought they much more to keep their Words and Promises in smaller matters , when they engage their Honour for any just cause or consideration . Secondly , as touching these persons , no Temporal Lords , but they that are Lords of the Parliament , shall have this kind of Tryal ; and therefore out of this are excluded the eldest Son and Heir apparent of a Duke in the life of his Father , though he be called an Earl. And it was the case of Henry Howard Earl of Surrey , Son and Heir apparent to Thomas Duke of Norfolk , in 38 Hen. 8. which is in Brook's Abridgment Treason , 2. Likewise , the Son and Heir apparent of an Earl , though he be called a Lord. And all the younger Sons of Kings are Earls by birth , though they have no other Creation ; but shall not be partaker of these or other Priviledges incident to the Lords of the Parliament . Thirdly , Those that are Barons , and of the Nobility of Scotland or Ireland , if upon the like Offence committed in England they be apprehended in England , they shall not have this Tryal by Peers , no , though they were born in England ; for they received their Dignity from a King of England of other Nations : But if the King of England do at this day create one of his Subjects of Scotland or Ireland an Earl , Viscount , Baron , or other Peer of this Realm ; or by his ordinary Writ of Summons under his Great Seal do call him to the Upper House of Parliament , and assign him a place , and to have Voice free amongst the Lords and Peers there assembled , he shall be partaker with them in all priviledges . And thus much concerning the restraint of the Priviledges in respect of the persons 39 Ed. 3. And touching the manner of proceeding , it appeareth by the said Statute of Magna Charta , chap. 29. That a Peer of the Realm shall be tryed by his Peers only , in case where he is indicted at the King's Suit of Treason or Felony ; for the words of the Statute be Nec super eum ibimus , &c. But if any Appeal of Murther of Felony be sued by any common person against a Peer of the Realm , he shall be tryed by common persons , and not by his Peers . And so was Fines Lord Dacres tryed in Appeal of Murther . The Nobility of this Realm do enjoy this priviledge , That they are not to be impannelled on any Jury or Inquest to make tryal or inquiry upon their Corporal Oaths between party and party , for they may have a Writ for their Discharge to the Sheriff . But it is a Rule in Law , Vigilantibus non dormientibus subveniant jura . For if the Sheriff have not received any such Writ , and the Sheriff have returned any such Lord on Juries , or in Assize , &c. and they thereupon do appear , they shall be sworn ; if they do not appear , they shall lose their Issues 35 Hen. 6. and in such case they must purchase a Writ out of the Chancery reciting their priviledges , directed to the Justices before whom such Noble persons are so impannelled , commanding to dismiss him or them that were so impannelled out of the said Pannel , F.N.B. 165. This priviledge hath , in two causes , not been allowed , or taken place : 1. If the enquiry concern the King and the Common-wealth , in any necessary and important degree or business of the Realm . And therefore divers Barons of the Marshes of Wales were impannelled before the Bishop of Ely , and other Commissioners of Oyer and Terminer , to enquire of a notable outrage committed by Gilbert de Clare Earl of Glocester , against Humphrey de Bohun , Earl of Hereford and Essex , and his Tenants in Wales , in the Twelfth year of Edward the First , where Iohn de Hastings , Edmond de Mortimer , Theobald Beardmoe , and other Barons of the Marshes , challenged their priviledges aforesaid , and much insisted upon the same . But it was afterwards answered by the Court , as by the words in the Record appeareth . The Barons aforesaid did persist in the Challenge , and in the end both the said Earls , between whom the said outrage had been perpetrated , submitted themselves to the King's Grace , and made their Fines . Secondly , This priviledge hath no place in case of necessity , where the truth of the case cannot otherwise come to light ; for the words in the Writ in the Register are , Nisi sua praesentia ob aliquam causam specialiter exigatur , &c. If any Nobleman do bring an Action of Debt upon Account , in case where the Plaintiff is to be examined ( which is always intended to be upon Oath ) upon the truth of his cause , by vertue of the Statute of the fifth of Henry the Fourth , chap. 8. it shall suffice to examine his Attorney , and not himself upon his Oath . And this priviledge the Law hath given to the Nobility , That they are not Arrested upon any Warrant of a Justice of Peace for their good behaviour , or breach of Peace ; nor by a Supplicavit out of Chancery , or from the King's Bench : For such an Opinion hath the Law conceived of the peaceable disposition of Noblemen , that it hath been thought enough to take their promise upon their Honour in that behalf . And as in Civil Causes , the like Rule doth the Court of Equity observe in Cases of Conscience ; for if the Defendant be a Peer of the Realm in the Star-Chamber , or Court of Chancery , a Subpaena shall not be awarded , but a Letter from the Lord Chancellor or Lord Keeper in lieu thereof . And if he do not appear , no Attachment shall go out against him : For in the Fourteenth year of Queen Elizabeth this Order and Rule was declared in the Parliament Chamber , That an Attachment is not awarded by Common Law , Custome , or President , against any Lord of Parliament . And if he do appear , and make his Bill of Complaint upon his Honour only , he is not compelled to be sworn . But by the Statute 5 Eliz. cap. 1. it is enacted , That all Knights and Burgesses of Parliament shall take the Oath of Supremacy , and so shall Citizens and Barons of the Cinque Ports , being returned of the Parliament , before they enter into the Parliament House ; which Oath shall be according to the tenor , effect , and form of the same , as is set forth in the Statutue of 1 Eliz. Provided always , that forasmuch as the Queens Majesty is otherwise sufficiently assured of the Faith and Loyalty of the Temporal Lords of her High Court of Parliament , therefore this Act , nor any thing therein contained , shall not extend to compel any Temporal person of or above the Degree of a Baron of this Realm to take the said Oath , nor to incur any penalty limited by the said Act for not taking the same . If a Peer be sued in the Common Pleas in an Action of Debt or Trespass , and Process be awarded by Capias or Exigit against him , then he may sue out a Certiorari in the Chancery , directed to the Justices of the Common Pleas , testifying that he is a Peer of the Realm . For unless the Court be certified by the King 's Writ out of the Chancery , that the Defendant is a Peer of Parliament , if a Capias or Exigit issue forth against him , it is no Error , neither is it punishable in the Sheriff , his Bailiffs or Officers , if they execute the said Process , and arrest the body of such a Noble person ; for it appertaineth not to them to argue or dispute the Authority of the Court. But if the Court be thereof certified as aforesaid , they will award a Supersedeas , which is in the Books of Entries in the Title of Error , Sect. 20. And there are two Reasons or Causes , wherefore no Capias or Exigit lieth against any Peer ; one because of the dignity of their persons , and the other by intendment of Law. There is none of the Nobility but have sufficient Freehold , which the Plaintiffs may extend for their payment or satisfaction . But a Capias or Exigit lieth against a Knight , for the Law hath not that Opinion of his Freehold . And if any of the Nobility happen to be so wilful , and not to appear , the Court will compel the Sheriff to return great Issues against him , and so at every default to encrease the issues , as lately against the Earl of Lincoln hath been in practice . By the ancient Laws of this Realm , before the coming of William the Conqueror , many good Laws were made for keeping the Peace ; and amongst others , That all above the age of twelve years should be sworn to the King ; which we in remembrance thereof do keep at this day in the view of Frank Pledge , or the Court Leet . But Noblemen of all sorts , are neither bound to attend the Court Leet , nor to take the Oath , as appeareth by Britan. c. 29. treating of the Court called the Sheriffs Tourn , out of which the Leet to be extracted . And agreeable thereunto is the Statute of Marlbridge , cap. 10. See the Lord Chancellor's Speech in the case of Postnati , fol. 78. If a Writ of Error be brought in Parliament upon a Judgment given in the King's Bench , the Lords of the higher House alone , without the Commons , are to examine the Errors , ibid. fol. 22. In the 11 th of Henry the Fourth , fol. 26. in a Case concerning a Distress taken for Expences and Fees , the Knights of the Parliament are not contributary for such Lands as are parcel of their ancient Lordships and Baronies ; but for other Lands they are . But there is a Question made , If one which is no Baron , but ignoble , do purchase any ancient Barony , whether he shall be discharged of such Expences and Fees , or not ? Which is not worthy the questioning : For as Land holden by Villainous Service doth not make him a Villain or Bondman , which being free doth purchase the same , although by his Tenure he shall be bound to do such Villainous Service : So on the other side , Land that is holden by Barony doth not make the Villain or Ignoble which purchaseth the same , to be Noble , although the charge of such Tenure do lye upon him in respect of the Service of the Realm . It is said in our Books , That a day of Grace , or by the favour of the Court , is not to be granted to the Plaintiff in any Suit or Action whereby a Nobleman is Defendant ; because thereby a Nobleman should be longer delayed than the ordinary course of the Court is ; and such a Lord is to have expedition of Justice , in respect that he is to attend the person of the King , and the Service of the Commonwealth : But if there be no Noble person to the Suit , the Judges do and may at their discretion , upon a motion , grant a day more of Grace otherwise than by the strict course of the Law the Plaintiff may challenge . Cambden , f. 169. writing upon this Subject , saith , Where a Nobleman is Demandant , the Defendant may not be assoyned for the delay and cause aforesaid . To which I could also subscribe , but that the Book in the fifth of Hen. 4. 15. b. is otherwise adjudged : There the King brought a Quare Impedit against a common person , and the Defendant was essoyned by a Rule of Court. If any Peer of the Realm be Plaintiff or Defendant in any Action , real or personal , a-against any other , whereupon any Issue is to be tryed by a Jury , the Sheriff must return one Knight at the least to be of the Inquest ; otherwise upon challenge made the whole pannel shall be quashed . Which by order of the Law is appointed to be done for honour and reverence due to the person of that degree : For when a Peer of the Realm is party , it is otherwise than when the Suit is between private persons ; F. N. B. Title Challenge 115. 13. Edward the Third in a Quare Impedit against a Bishop adjudged . But the Earl of Kent in the fourteenth year of the late Queen's Reign , and the parties did plead to an Issue , the Venire Facias is awarded , which the Sheriff did return ●●rved , and a pannel returned accordingly , in which is no Knight named . The truth of which Case was , that after the return made , the Demand is published , and demanded by the Queen and the Heralds to be Earl of Kent in right and discent , although he had not been so reputed or named before ; and also after that time ( that is to say ) at the then last Parliament , the Tenant is made a Baron by Writ of Parliament , and then the Jury doth appear in the Court of Common Pleas , and the Earl of Kent did challenge the Array , because no Knight was returned : but it was not allowed him by the Court , for the admittance of both parties is to the contrary , and no default can be laid to the Sheriff , for he had no notice of the honourable Es●ate of either of the parties ; the Demandant not being then known or reputed to be an Earl by descent , or of the Tenant then also being no Baron . How much the Common Law hath always prohibited perpetuity in Lands and Tenements , you may see in Corbet's Case , in the first part of Coke's Book , fol. 48. and in many other Cases in the rest of his Books . As also Littleton , fol. 145. saith it is a principle in the Law , that every Land in Feesimple may be charged with a Rent . But if the King's Majesty , upon a Creation of any Peer of the Realm , of what degree soever , do as the manner is by Letters Patent give unto any such new created Nobleman an Annuity or Rent for the support of his degree , which they call Creation-money ; this is so annexed to the dignity , that by no Grant , Assurance , or any manner of Alienation it can be given from the Lord , but is still incident , and a support of the same Creation . In all Cases wherein is any Suit , a Baron or Peer of the Realm is to be amerced no less than five pounds ; but the amercement of a Duke is One hundred pounds . Although the Statute of Magna Charta , chap. 14. be in the Negative , viz. Comites & Barones non amercientur nisi per pares suos , & non nisi secundum modum delicti ; yet use hath reduced it into a certainty . As also by the same Statute it appeareth , that such Amercements should be assessed per pares suos : but that it were troublesome to assemble Barons for so small a matter , such Amercements in times past have been assessed by the Barons of the Exchequer , who sometime were Barons of the Realm , as is already taken notice of ; and so writeth Bracton lib. 3. tract . cap. 1. fol. 116.8 . Whereas by Statute 32 Hen. 8. cap. 16. it is enacted , That the Subjects of this Realm shall not keep in their Houses or Families above the number of four Strangers born ; nevertheless , by a Proviso in the same Act , every Lord of the Parliament hath this priviledge allowed unto him to keep in his Family the number of six born Strangers . By the Statute 14 Hen. 8. cap. 13. a priviledge was granted to the Nobility according to their degrees concerning Apparel ; but because by a Statute made in the first of the King that now is , chap. 15. all Laws and Statutes concerning Apparel are taken away . Whereas by the Statute 2 Hen. 5. Parl. 2. cap. 1. it is ordained , That the Justices of the Peace in every County , named of the Quorum , shall be resident in the Shires wherein they are Justices , there is a Proviso whereby the Lords and Peers of the Realm , named in such Commissions , are excepted . By the Statute 1 Edw. 6. cap. 12. amongst other things it is enacted , That in all and every Case and Cases , where any of the King's Subjects shall and may upon his prayer have the priviledge of the Clergy , as a Clark Convict , that may make purgation in all the Cases , and every of them , and also in all and every Cases of Felony wherein the priviledge or benefit of Clergy is taken away by this Statute , wilful Murther , and poysoning only excepted , the Lords and Peers of the Realm having place and voice in Parliament , shall by vertue of this Act of Common Grace , upon his or their requests and prayer , alledging that he is a Lord or Peer of this Realm , claiming the benefit of this Act , though he cannot read , without burning in the Hand , loss of Inheritance , or corruption of Blood , be adjudged , taken , and used for the first time only to all constructions , intents , and purposes as a Clark Convict , which may make purgations without any other benefit of Clergy to any such Lord or Peer from thenceforth at any time after for any cause to be allowed , adjudged , or admitted , any Law , Custome , Statute , or other thing to the contrary notwithstanding . By this Statute a Lord of the Parliament shall have the benefit of his Clergy , where a common person shall not , viz. for breaking open an House by day or night , or for robbing any on the High-way , and in all other Cases excepted , saving in wilful Murther and Poysoning , but in all other Cases , wherein Clergy is taken away by any Statute made since the said Statute of 1 Edw. 6. he is in the same degree that a common and inferiour person : but the Court will not give him the benefit of this Statute , if he doth not require it . If a Lord of the Parliament do confess his Offence upon his Arraignment , or doth abjure , or is Outlawed for Felony , it seemeth that in these Cases he may have the benefit of this Statute , viz. his Clergy ; for that by the Statute 18 Eliz. cap. 18. he , nor any other , need to make his purgation , but shall be forthwith delivered out of Prison by the Justices . By the Imperial Constitutions , Nobiles non torquentur , & Nobiles non suspendentur , sed decapitantur : and so it is almost grown into a Custome of England by the favour of the Prince ; for it is rare to have a Nobleman executed in other form . Yet Thomas Fines Lord Dacres of the South , in the 23 th of Henry the Sixth , and the Lord Sturton in the fourth of Queen Mary , were hanged . At the Common Law it was lawful for any man , Noble or Ignoble , to retain as many Chaplains as they pleased for their instruction in Religion . But by a Statute made 21 Hen. 8. cap. 13. a restraint was made , and a certain number only allowed the Nobility : And such Chaplains for their attendance have Immunities , as by the Statute at large may appear , viz. every Archbishop and Duke may have six Chaplains , whereof every one may have , and purchase Licence of Dispensation , and take , receive , and keep two Parsonages or Benefices with Cure of Souls ; and that every Marquiss and Earl may have five Chaplains ; every Viscount or other Bishop four Chaplains ; and every Baron and Knight of the Garter may have three Chaplains , whereof every one of them may purchase License of Dispensation , and take , receive , and keep two Benefices with Cure of Souls . And forasmuch as the retaining of Chaplains by Lords and Peers of the Realm is ordinary ; and nevertheless some questions have been concerning the true understanding of the said Statute Law , I think it not unnecessary to set down some subsequent Resolutions of the Judges touching some matters . If a Bishop be translated to an Archbishoprick , or a Baron be created an Earl , yet in this case they can have but only so many Chaplains as an Archbishop , or an Earl might have ; for although he hath divers Dignities , yet he is still but one person to whom the attendance and service should be done : So if a Baron be made a Knight of the Garter , or Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports , he shall have in all but three Chaplains , & sic de similibus . And if such an Officer allowed by the Statute to have one , two , or more Chaplains , do retain accordingly , and after he is removed from his Office , in this case he cannot be now Nonresident , nor accept a second Benefice of his Complement which was not full before his removing ; and in that case it behoveth the Chaplain to procure a Non obstante , otherwise he may be punished for his Nonresidence . So if any Earl or Baron do retain a Chaplain , and before his advancement his Lord is Attainted of Treason ( as it was in the Case of the Earl of Westmoreland ) after the said Attainder such a Chaplain cannot except a second Benefice ; for though his Lord be still living according to Nature , yet after the Attainder he is a dead person by the Law , and therefore out of the case to have priviledge for himself , or for his Chaplains . If a Baron have three Chaplains , and every of them have two Benefices , and after the Baron dieth ; they shall enjoy those Benefices with Cure , which were lawfully settled in them before : But in this case , although the said Chaplains be resident upon one of his Benefices , yet now he is become punishable for being resident upon the other ; for Cessante causa , cessat effectus . The same Law is , if the Baron be attainted of Treason or Felony ; or if any Officer be removed from his Office , & sic de similibus . So if a Lord do one time retain more Chaplains than are allowed by the Law , the lawful number only shall have priviledge ; and in this case which of them be first promoted shall have priviledge , and the rest are excluded ; for aequali jure melior est conditio possidentis . If a Nobleman doth retain Chaplains above his number at several times , if any of his Chaplains die , the next that was retained shall not succeed , for his first retainer was void ; and therefore in this case , it behoveth him to have a new retaining after the death of the predecessor , and before his advancement ; for quod ab initio non valet , in tractu temporis non convalescit . If a Noble person retain such a number of Chaplains as is by the law allowed him , but afterwards the Lord , upon such dislike or other cause , do discharge any of them from their attendance or service , the Lord in this case cannot retain other ( thereby to give them priviledge ) during the life of them so retained and discharged . And the reason thereof is , because the first Chaplains were lawfully retained , and by virtue thereof , during their lives , might purchase Dispensations to have advantage according to the Statute : and therefore if the discharge of their service and attendance might give liberty to the Lord to retain others , by such means he might advance Chaplains without number , by which the Statute might be defrauded . And the said Statute must be strictly construed , Non-residents , & Pluralities , as a thing prejudicial to the service of God , and the ordinary instruction of the people of God. By the Statute 3 Hen. 7. cap. 4. it is enactect as followeth ; Forasmuch as by quarrels made to such as have been in great Authority , Office , and of Council with the King 's of this Realm , hath ensued the destruction of the Kings , and therefore the undoing of this Realm , so as it hath evidently appeared , when the compassing of the death of such as were of the King 's true Subjects was had , the destruction of the Prince was imagined thereby , and for the most part it hath grown and been occasioned by malice of the King 's own Houshold Servants ; and for that by the Laws of this Land , if actual deeds were not , there was no remedy for such false compassing , imaginations , and confederacies had against any Lord , or any of the King's Council , or great Officers in his Houshold ; and so great inconveniences did ensue , because such ungodly demeanours were not strictly punished before that any actual deed was done ; for remedy whereof , it was by the said Statute ordained , That the Steward , Treasurer , or Comptroller of the King's Houshold for the time being , or one of them , shall have full authority to enquire by twelve discreet persons of the Check Roll of the King 's honourable Houshold , if any person admitted and sworn the King's Servant , and his name put in the Check Roll , in any quality or degree whatsoever under the state of a Lord , do make any Confederacies or Conspiracies with any person or persons , to destroy or murther the King , or any Lord of this Realm , or any other person sworn to the King's Council , Steward , Treasurer , or Comptroller of the King's Houshold , that if it be found before the said Steward for the time being , by the said twelve men , that any such of the King's Servants as aforesaid hath confederated or conspired as abovesaid , that he so found by the enquiry be put thereupon to answer , and the Steward , Treasurer , or Comptroller , or two of them have power to determine the said matter according to Law : And if he put in trial , that then he be tried by Oath of twelve discreet men of the same Houshold , and that such Misdoers have no challenge but for maliace : And if such Misdoers be found Guilty by confession or otherwise , that the said Offence is adjudged Felony , and they to have Judgment and Execution , as Felons attainted ought to have by the Common Law. By the Statute made in the second of King Henry the First , cap. 8. Authority is given to the Sheriffs , and other the King's Justices , for the better suppressing of Riots , to raise posse Comitatus ; and the same liberty doth in Common Law guide in many other cases : Nevertheless the Sheriff may not by such Authority command the person of any Nobleman to attend the Service . But if the Sheriff upon a Supplicavit against a Nobleman in that case do return , that he is so puissant that he cannot , nor dare not arrest him , the Sheriff shall be grievously amerced for such his return : For by the Writ under the Great Seal of England , the King's Command is to all Archbishops , Bishops , Earls , Counts , and Barons , and to all Leigemen of the County , to be aiding unto him in that which to his Office appertaineth ; and therefore no person whatsoever can respit the execution of the said Writ of the King 's : Also the Sheriff at his discretion may levy three hundred men , if need be , to aid him in that behalf . The words of the great Charter of the Forest , in the eleventh Chapter , are as followeth ; To every Archbishop , Bishop , Earl , or Baron coming to us , and passing by our Forest , it shall be lawful for him to take one Beast or two by the view of the Forest if he be present ; or else he shall cause one to blow a Horn for him , that he seem not to steal our Deer . Although the Statute doth speak but of Bishops , Earls , and Barons , yet if a Duke , Marquiss , or Viscount ( which are Lords of the Parliament ) be coming towards the King by his command , they also shall have the benefit of this Article . So if the King send to any of the Lords aforesaid to come to his Parliament ; or send for him by Writ of Subpoena to appear in the Chancery ; or by Privy Seal to appear before his Council ; or send for him by Letters Missive , or by Messenger , or Serjeant at Arms ; in all these cases he shall have the benefit of this Statute , because that they come at the King's command . The same Law is , if a Scire Facias go out of the Chancery or Kings Bench to a Lord of Parliament : But if such Process go forth against a Lord to appear before the Justices of the Common Pleas , or the Barons of the Exchequer , and he cometh upon the same , he shall not have the benefit of the Statute ; for he doth not come unto the King ; and the words of the Statute are , Veniens ad nos ; And all the Process which are made out of the Chancery and King's Bench , are , Quod sit coram nobis ; and so are the Process out of the Star-Chamber . Also Lords which come to visit the new King after the death of his Father ( though not sent for ) shall have the same priviledge . And so that this Statute is a Warrant dormant to such Lords ; which also is to be understood as well of their returning homeward , as of their coming to the King. And note , that this Statute doth extend to give Licence to kill or hunt in the King's Parks , though the Letter of the Statute be Transiens per Forestam nostram . The Oath of Supremacy is not imposed on the Peers of the Realm . A Peer shall for his first Offence of Felony , though he cannot read , have the benefit of his Clergy , and without burning . If any person shall divulge false and scandalous Reports of any Lord of Parliament , the Offender is to be imprisoned until he bring forth the Author . In personal Actions the Plaintiff may pray a day of Grace ; but against a Lord of Parliament it shall not be allowed him . It is Actionable for any to deface the Coat Armour , &c. of any Nobleman or Gentleman , that is placed in a Church or Window . Certain Cases wherein a Lord of the Parliament hath no priviledge . THE Statute of Westminster 2. cap. 39● saith , If the Sheriff return that he cannot execute the Kings precept propter resistentiam alicujus magnatis ; if it be true , he shall punish the resisters by Imprisonment , from whence they shall not be delivered without the Kings special commandment . In 11 Hen. 4. 15. in homine replegiando , against Dame Spencer a Peer of the Realm , ( viz. a Baroness born ) a Capias was granted , because it was an high injury to the person whom she eloigned , and in some other cases of great contempt a Capias may be awarded against a Peer . An Abbot , which was a Lord of the Parliament , was impleaded , and he did pray priviledge to appear by an Attorney : and by the Rule of the Court he could not , because the Statute is general , and against it ; but by a special Writ out of Chancery he might ; and so in case where he doth pray to be received . For if a Lord of the Parliament , holding Lands of another in Feesimple , doth forbear and withhold to do , and pay his Service to his Landlord , and that by the space of two years ; whereupon he bringeth a Writ of Cessment ( which is his Remedy given by Law ) thereby to recover the Inheritance of the Land : But the said Lord , for the saving of Tenancy , being minded to pay all the Arrearages before Judgment given against him ( as by the Law he ought to do ) in this case he must come in proper person , and not by an Attorney . If a Nobleman be indicted , and cannot be found , Process of Outlary shall be awarded against him per legem terrae , and he shall be outlawed per judicium Coronatorum , but he shall be tried per judicium parium suorum when he appeals and pleads to issue . If any Lord did depart this Realm as Ambassador and otherwise , by the Kings Licence , or without Licence , and do not return at the King's command , or upon the Kings Writ , upon his privy Signet , the King may seize his Goods and Chattels . If a Lord , arrested upon a Supplicavit for the peace , do refuse to obey the Arrest , and make Rescous , and the Sheriff do return the Rescous ; upon such return shall issue an Attachment against the said Lord for his contempt , to take his Body ; and this is a way to obtain the peace against any Lord of the Parliament ; whereas the party could not have an Attachment against him , if the Subpoena had been duly served , and peaceably accepted of , although the said Lord had not appeared thereupon . All Lords are compellable to take the Oath mentioned in the Statute of the 7 th of King Iames , chap. 4. And see the Statute of the 7 th of King Iames , chap. 6. who have Authority to minister the said Oath unto them . If a Baron that holdeth by Baron Tenure , have his absence excused by Essoyn , he which casteth his Essoyn or Excuse , ought to find Surety that the said Essoyn is true . But in case of common persons , it shall rest upon the Credit and Integrity of the Essoyner ; wherein a Lord hath lesser priviledge than a common person . And whereas the Amercements should be offered per pares , the use is to refer them to the Barons of the Exchequer . When a Peer of the Realm is Arraigned in any Appeal of Felony , he shall not have that priviledge to be tried by his Peers ( as in case of Indictment ) but must undergo the ordinary Trial of Twelve men . Also in case of Indictment , the Defendant ( though a Peer ) may not challenge any of his Triers : And the Judgment to be given against any Lord of Parliament in cases of Felony or Treason shall be no other , than according to the usual Judgment given against common persons . And their Execution ( through the special Grace and Favour of the King ) is beheading . By Attainder of Felony or Treason is corruption of Blood , so that their Children may not be Heirs unto them , nor to any other Ancestor . And if he were a Nobleman before , he is by the Attainder made Ignoble , not only himself , but all his Children ; having regard unto the Nobility which they had by their Birth . And this corruption is so strong and high , that it cannot be salved by the King's pardon , or otherwise than by Authority of Parliament . But here is to be observed , That Nobility is not a thing substantial , but mere accidental ; for it may be present or absent , without corruption of the Subject whereof it doth depend ; for experience sheweth , That the passing of honourable Titles are restrained by exorbitant Crimes , when as Nature in the mean while cannot be thrust away . Wherefore , though the Lawyers do call Extinguishment of Nobility , which happeneth by such hainous Offences committed by corruption of Blood : nevertheless they use not this manner of phrase , as though Nobility were naturally and essentially in the Honour of Blood , more than any other hereditary Faculty ; but because the right of Inheritance ( which is by degrees of communication of Blood directed ) is by that means determined ; and also in regard of the hatred and detestation of the Crime , it is called corruption of Blood. And here a Question may arise , Whether by Attainder of the Father the Blood be so corrupted , that the Son shall also be barred his Mother's Inheritance , who hath not transgressed , or no ? They that maintain the Affirmative , say , That forasmuch as none can be procreated or ingendred according to the course of Nature , but of a Father and Mother , and must have in him two Bloods , viz. the Fathers and Mothers ; therefore the Law also faith , Those Bloods commixt in the person of a man in lawful Marriage , do constitute and make him an Heir ; and that none can be Heir unto any , unless he hath both Bloods in him to whom he doth convey himself to be Heir . And therefore the Heir of the half Blood shall not inherit , because he doth want one of the Bloods which should make him inheritable . And upon this reason Britan. chap. 5. saith , If a man be attainted of Felony by Iudgment , the Heirs ingendred after the Attainder are precluded from all manner of succession in the Heritage , as well of the part of the Mother as of the Father ; for ex leproso parente , leprosus generatur filius . And when the Father is attainted of Treason or Felony , the Blood , in respect whereof he is Inheritable , being corrupted , the same hath but half his Blood , that is , the Blood of his Mother in him without corruption . And with this doth agree Bracton , lib. 3. cap. 13. Non valebit felonis generatio , nec ad haereditatem paternam , nec maternam ; si autem ante feloniam generationem fecerit , talis generatio succedit in haereditatem patris vel matris , à quo non fuerit felonia perpetrata . Because at the time of his Birth he had two lawful Bloods commixt in him , which could not be corrupted by the Attainder subsequent , but only as unto that party who did offend . But on the Negative part it is said , That the Law is not so penal against the innocent Child , as to prejudice him touching his Mothers Inheritance , who also did not offend ; or contrariwise , especially in case where the Mother was seized of an Estate in Feesimple , either in Lands or Tenements , or Title of Honour . And this was the case ( if I be not mistaken ) of Philip late Earl of Arundel , notwithstanding the Attainder of Thomas Duke of Norfolk his Father ; for he had that Earldom in right of his Mother . But they do agree , That if the Lands or Tenements , or a Title of Honour , be given to a man , and to his wife in tayl who hath Issue : The Father is attainted of Treason , and executed , though this forfeiture of the Husband shall be no barr to the Wife concerning her interest by Survivorship ; yet their Issue is barred by the Statute 26 Hen. 8. cap. 13. and his Blood corrupted : For in that case the Heir must necessarily make himself Heir , as well of the Body of the one as of the other . And yet the words of the Statute 32 Hen. 8. cap. 28. are , That no Fine , Feof●ment , or other Act or Acts hereafter to be made , or suffered by the Husband only of any Mannors , Lands , Tenements , or Hereditaments , being the Inheritance or Freehold of his Wife , during the Coverture between them , shall in any wise be , or make any discontinuance , or be prejudicial to the said Wife , or to her Heirs , or to such as shall have right , title , or interest to the same by the death of such Wife or Wives ; but the same Wife or her Heirs , and such other to whom such right shall appertain after her decease , shall or may then lawfully enter into all such Mannors , Lands , Tenements , and Hereditaments according to their Rights and Titles therein . For there is Adversity taken and agreed for Law between a discontinuance which doth imply a wrong , and a lawful Baron which doth imply a right : And therefore if Land be given to the Husband , and the Wife , and to the Heirs of their Bodies begotten , and the Husband levies a Fine with Proclamation , or do commit High Treason , and dieth , and the Wife before or after Entry dieth , the Issue is barred , and the Comisee for the King hath right unto the Lands , because the Issue cannot claim as Heir unto both . And with this doth agree Dyer 351. b. adjudged . vide 5 Hen. 7. 32. Cott's Assize , Coke's eighth part , 27. where it is resolved , That the Statute 32 Hen. 8. doth extend only unto Discontinuances , although the Act hath general words , or be prejudicial to the Wife or her Heirs , &c. but the conclusion ; if she shall lawfully enter , &c. according to their right and title therein , which they cannot do when they be barred , and have no right , title , and interest . And this Statute doth give advantage unto the Wife , &c. so long as she hath right ; but it doth not extend to take away a future barr . Although the Statute doth give Entry without limitation of any time ; nevertheless the Entry must attend upon the right : and therefore if the Wife be seized in Feesimple , and her Husband levy a Fine with Proclamation unto another , and dieth , now the Wife may enter by force of the Statute ; for as yet that Fine is not any barr unto her , but her right doth remain , which she may continue by Entry ; but if she do surcease her time , and the five years do pass without Entry , &c. now by force of the Fine with Proclamation , and five years past after the death of her Husband , she is barred of her right , and by consequence she cannot enter . And the Statute doth speak of Fine only , and not of Fine with Proclamation . If there be Father and Son , and the Father be seized of Lands holden in Capite , or otherwise by Knight's Service , the King doth create the Son Duke , Earl , or other Degree of Nobility , and afterwards the Father dieth , his Son being within the Age of One and twenty years , he shall be no Ward ; but if the King had made him Knight in the life of his Father , he should not have been in Ward after the death of his Father , neither for the Lands descended , nor for his Marriage , though he be within Age. NOBILITY AND LORDS IN REPUTATION ONLY . CHAP. XIV . THERE are also other Lords in Reputation and Appellation , who nevertheless are not de jure ; neither can they enjoy the priviledges of those of the Nobility that are Lords of the Parliament . The Son and Heir of a Duke , during his Father's life , is only in courtesie of Speech and Honour called an Earl ; and the eldest Son of a Marquiss or an Earl , a Lord : but not so in legal proceedings , or in the King's Courts of Judicature . But the King may at his pleasure create them in the life of their Ancestors into any Degree of Lords of the Parliament . And according to the German Custom , all the younger Sons of Dukes and Marquisses are called Lords , but by courtesie only , which Title descends not to their Heirs . A Duke , or other of the Nobility of a Foreign Nation , doth come into this Land by the King 's safe Conduct , in which said Letters of safe Conduct he is named a Duke according to his Creation , yet that Appellation maketh him not a Duke , &c. to sue , or be sued by that name within this Realm , but is only so by Reputation . But if the King of Denmark , or other Sovereign King come into England under safe Conduct , he , during his abode here , ought to be styled by the name of King , and to retain his Honour , although not his Regal Command and Power . And in this case may be observed by the way , That no Sovereign King may enter into this Realm without licence , though he be in League . All the younger Sons of the Kings of England are of the Nobility of England , and Earls by their Birth without any other Creation . And if an Englishman be created Earl of the Empire , or some other Title of Honour by the Emperor or other Monarch , he shall not bear that Dignity in England , but is only an Earl in Reputation . A Lord or Peer of Scotland or Ireland is not of the Nobility or Peerage of England in all Courts of Justice , although he is commonly reputed a Lord , and hath priviledge as a Peer . OF THE QUEEN CONSORT , AND OF NOBLE WOMEN . CHAP. XV. A QUEEN , so called from the S●xon word Cuningine , as the King from Cuning ( by variation of Gender only , as was their manner ) signifieth Power and Knowledge , and thereby denotes the Sovereignty due unto them which they enjoyed in those days , and do now in most Nations , being capable of the Royal Diadem , by the common right of Inheritance , for want of Heirs Male. But in France , by the Salique Law , the Sex is excluded from their Inheritance , by which they debarred the English Title to their Crown . There are three kinds of persons capable of the Title and Dignity of Queen amongst us , and each of them different in Power and Priviledge . The first is a Queen Sovereign , to whom the Crown descends by Birth-right , and is equal in power to a King , as before noted . She is her Husband 's Sovereign , and he her Subject in England , although he were an Emperor : So was King Philip of Spain to Queen Mary ; and her Authority is included in the foregoing Chapter of Monarchy , and therefore need not to be here repeated . The second in Honour is the Queen Consort ; and the third the Queen Dowager or Queen Mother . As from the benign influence of the glorious Planet the Sun , all Creatures ( by God's decree in the order of Nature ) receive life and motion ; so from the King ( God's Vicegerent on earth ) all degrees of Nobility take their advance and dignity : 'T is therefore requisite the King should as far excel his Subjects in Majesty and Splendor , as doth the Sun the other Planets . And as the Moon is the mirror of the Sun , representing his Glory by Night ; so the Queen Consort , the Counterpart of the Royal Majesty , shines amongst us , for whom , and for whose Posterity the Nation is bound to send up their Prayers to God. The Queen of England , during the life of the King , hath as high prerogatives and priviledges , and liveth in as great state as any Queen in Europe . She is reputed the second person in the Kingdom ; and the Law setteth so high a value upon her , as to make it High Treason to conspire her death , or to violate her Chastity . She is allowed Regal Robes , Ornaments and a Crown of the same form , as an absolute Queen weareth , and may be ( as formerly they were ) crowned with Royal Solemnity ; the performance of which Office properly belongeth to the Archbishop of York . And although their Coronations of late have been disused , yet they have as much honour , and enjoy the same priviledges , as if that Ceremony had been done . And the manner and solemnity at the Coronation of a Queen is at large set down in most of our Chronicles , and in particular in Holinshead and Stow , upon the splendid Coronation of Anna Bulloign in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth , to which I refer the Reader . The Queen is permitted to sit in state by the King , and to keep a distinct Court from the King 's , although she be the Daughter of a Nobless ; and hath her Courtiers in every Office , as hath the King ( though not altogether so many ; ) and hath her Yeomen of her Guard to attend her on foot , and within doors , and her Lifeguard of Horse for her state and security when she goeth abroad : She hath her Attorney , Solicitor , and Counsel for the management of her Law concerns , who have great respect shewed them , being placed within the Barr with the King's Counsel in all Courts of Judicature . Although she be an Alien , and a Feme covert during the King's Life , yet without any Act of Parliament for Naturalization , or Letters Patents for her Denization , she may purchase Lands in Feesimple ; make Leases in her own Name without the King ; hath power to give , to sue , and to contract Debts , which by the Law is denied any other Feme Covert ; she may not be impleaded till first petitioned ; nor is the formality of fifteen days Summons to the Defendant needful , if she be Plaintiff ; nor can she be amerced , if she be Nonsuited in any Action ; she may present by her self to a Spiritual Benefice . Anciently the Queens had a Revenue called Aurum Reginae , that is the Queen's Gold , which was the tenth part of what came to the King by the name of Oblata upon Pardons , Gifts , &c. but of late they keep to their Dowry , viz. Forty thousand pounds per Annum , besides fines upon the renewing of Leases ; which said Dowry is as large as any Queens in Christendome . The like honour and respect that is due to the King is exhibited to the Queen , as well by Foreigners as by the King's Subjects ; as is also to the Queen Dowager , who looseth not her Dignity or Reverence , although she should marry a private Gentleman , as did Queen Kath●rine , Widow to King Henry the Fifth , who after she was married to Owen Teudor Esquire , maintained her Action at Law as Queen of England . The present Queen Consort is the thrice Illustrious Donna Katherina Infanta Portuguesa , whose vertue and true piety ought to be taken notice of in all Histories , ●or succeeding Queens to trace her Noble footsteps , whom God preserve . The Queen Dowager takes place next to the Queen Consort , and in the absence of the King her Son , or in his minority , is sometimes made Queen Regent , or Protectress ; but this trust is usually by the King 's own command , or at the request of the three States assembled in Parliament , to prevent the danger of an usurpation of the Crown : the like trust is sometimes imposed upon the Queen Consort in her Husband's absence , as by King Henry the Eighth twice during his Wars in France . Note , That during the minority of the King of England , whatsoever Laws are enacted in Parliament under a Queen Regent , or a Protectress , are no longer binding than till the King attains to full age , after which he may revoke and make void by his Letters Patents under the Great Seal . The Daughters of the Kings of England are all styled Prince●●es . The eldest is called the Princess Royal , and hath an aid or certain rate of money paid by every Tenant in Capite , Knights Service , and Soccage , towards her marriage Portion , as was levied by K. Iames when he married the Princess Elizabeth ; and to violate her Cha●●ity is by the Law adjudged High Treason . Of Noble VVomen . WOmen in England , according to their Husbands Qualities , are either Honourable and Noble , or Ignoble . Their Honourable Dignities are Princesses , Dutchesses , Marchionesses , Countesses , Viscountesses , and Baronesses . The Nobless ( as the French call them ) are all Knights Ladies , who in all writings are styled Dames ; all Esquires and Gentlemens wives only Gentlewomen . The third sort comprehends the Plebeans , and are commonly called Goodwives . Noble women are so by Creation , Descent , or Marriage . Of women honourable by Creation are divers Examples , of which the first ( as I remember ) that we read of , was Margaret Countess of Norfolk , created by Richard the Second Dutchess of Norfolk . And many of them had their Honours granted by Patents to themselves , and the Heirs Males of their Bodies to be begotten , with special Clauses that their Heirs Male shall have voices in Parliament , Creation money , their Mothers Titles ; as if a Dutchess , he a Duke ; and if a Countess , he an Earl , with the Ceremony of Mantle , Surcoat , Coronet , &c. The like Grant was to Anna Bulloign when she was created Marchioness of Pembroke by Henry the Eighth . Of a later date was the Lady Finch made Countess of Winchelsey , who had all the said priviledges granted to her , and her Heirs Male. The Dutchess of Buckingham also , in the time of King Iames. And in our Age we have divers Noble Ladies advanced to degrees of Honour , viz. the Countess of Guilford , Groom of the Stool to the Queen Mother , and a faithful Servant to her in her banishment , being then Countess of Killimeak in Ireland : The Lady Dudley Dutchess of 〈…〉 The celebrated Beauties , Barbara Villiers Dutchess of Cleaveland , and Countess of Southampton ; and Louyse Rene Angelique de Carwell Dutchess of Portsmouth , Countess of Petersfield , &c. Of Titles by Descent and Marriage , there are Examples enough , so that I need not trouble the Reader with any repetition ; I shall only set down some few general Observations not sufficiently discoursed of . If a King's Daughter marry a Duke or an Earl , illa ●emper dicitur Regalis , by Law and Courtesie . Noble women by descent , Birthright , or Creation , remain Noble although they marry Husbands under that degree . Also any Daughter of an Earl or Viscount that continues a Virgin , or marrieth an Esquire , yet she retaineth the Honour that sprung from her Parents , and shall take place accordingly , and be saluted by the Title of Lady . If a Gentleman , Knight , or Peer marry a wife of ignoble Parents , she shall enjoy the Title , Name , and Dignity of her Husband , not only during his life , but when she is a widow , or afterwards married to an Ignoble person ; but this is by the Courtesie ( and not by the Law ) of the Realm . Whereas on the contrary , let a woman of Blood and Coat-Armour marry a Yeoman or Churle that is Ignoble , and hath no Coat-Armour , his Condition in point of Honour is in no respect advanced , and she shall retain the Honour , State , and Dignity she was born unto . Yet if she have i●●ue by that Yeoman or Ignoble person , she being an Heiress , that Issue shall have liberty to bear her Coat ; but Sir Iohn Fern saith only for life , and that on a Lozenge Shield , with a difference of a Cinquefoil . If a French , Spanish , or other woman Alien , be married to a Peer of the Realm , or to a Gentleman , and be not denizened , she is debarred all Priviledges and Titles due to her Husband ; nor can she claim any Dower or Joynture from him by the Laws of England . Yet in some things our Laws are wonderful kind to the Female Sex , especially procreandi causa : As thus ; if a man and his wife separate for some fraud , or private loathing of the Marriage Bed , or the like , and so continue for some years ; after which time the woman bringeth forth a Child , which though got by another man , and her Husband in all that time not having enjoyed her , yet if he live in the Kingdom he must Father the Child ; and if before that time he had no Child , that shall inherit his Lands , if entailed , or left without Will. Also if a Wife be with Child when her Husband dieth , and she marry another man before her delivery , the latter Husband must own the Child , which must be his Heir at Law if he were childless . The Wives Dignities and Lands descend to her Heirs , not to her Husband ; yet to encourage him to play the man , the Courtesie of England is such , that as the Wife hath the third part of his Estate in Lands for her Joynture , during her life if a Widow ; so the Husband , if he get his Wife with Child , and that Child be heard to cry , he shall enjoy all her Lands during his life . The Wife can make no contract whatsoever , that shall stand good in Law , to the detriment of her Husband , without his consent ; nor can she make a Will , or dispose of what she hath , whilst she is a Feme Covert ; ●he cannot be produced as a witness for or against her Husband ; nor shall she be accessory to his felonious acts , although she receive the Goods , or conceive the Fact , if she be not personally an Actor therein . Female Children are also by Law capable to give their consent to marriage at Seven years old ; and the Lord 's eldest Daughter is to have aid of his Tenants to marry her at that age , though she may dissent from this Contract when she comes to Twelve ; but if at that Age she doth not dissent , she is bound for life : she may then make a Will , and dispose of Goods and Chattels by it . At Nine years of Age she is Dowable : at Fourteen she might receive her Lands into her Hands , and was then out of Wardship , if she were Fourteen at the death of her Ancestor ; otherwise she was in Wardship till she accomplished Sixteen years , and then she was free . At One and twenty she is enabled to contract or alienate her Lands by Will or otherwise . If there be no Son , the Lands as well as Goods are equally divided amongst the Daughters , who are Coheirs . In ancient times Women amongst the Romans were thought worthy of enjoying peculiar favours and respect . And out of their great love and honour to the Mother of Marcus Coriolanus , for diverting his fury which he threatned the Citizens to their ruin , for their ingratitude towards him , the Citizens granted the Roman Dames the priviledge of wearing the Segmenta Aurea , or Bordures of Gold and purple on their Garments : They were also permitted to wear gold Ear-rings ; to have place on the way ; and in memorial of the said preservation , there was erected a Temple dedicated to the Female Fortune . Anne of Britain , wife to Charles the Eighth of France , as an ornamental Honour to several deserving Ladies , instead of the Military Belt and Collar , bestowed on them a Cordon or Lace , and admonishing them to live chastly and devoutly : and to put the greater esteem thereon , the surrounded her Escocheon of Arms with the like Cordon ; from which Example it is now become the Custome for unmarried women to bear their Arms in form of a Lozenge , which are commonly adorned with such a Cordon . Ioseph Micheli Marquez , for the further Honour of the Female Sex , gives an Example of the Noble women of Tortosa in Aragon , whom he calls Cavalleros , or Knights : For ( saith he ) Don Raymond , last Earl of Barcellona ( who by right of his wife Petronilla , sole Daughter and Heir to King Ramiro the Monk , joyned his Principality to the Kingdom of Aragon ) having in the year 1149. taken from the Moors the City of Tortosa , who in a few months after laid siege to the said City , and reduced the Inhabitants to so great a strait , that their intentions were of surrendring it up to the Moors ; but the women hearing thereof , for the diverting their ruin , put on mens Apparel , and by a resolute Sally forced the Moors to raise the Seige . And the Earl , in acknowledgment of his thanks for this their Noble Act , as a reward of Honour , instituted an Order ( not much unlike a Military Order ) into which were admitted only those brave women , and their Descendants . The Badge which he assigned them was something like a Fryer's Capouch , but of a crimson colour , which they wore upon their Head-clothes . Amongst the priviledges which this Earl granted them , they were to be freed from all Taxes ; to have precedency of men in publick Meetings ; and that all the Iewels and Apparel of their deceased Husbands should be their own , although of never so great value . And these women having thus purchased this Honour , deported themselves after the manner of Military Knights of those days . To look further back , ancient Histories do take notice of the Amazons of old , whose Fame in Arms is sufficiently known . Although Noble women may not sit in Parliament , in respect of their Sex ; yet they are in Law Peers of the Realm ; and all or most of the prerogatives before mentioned , which to the Noblemen are belonging , do appertain unto them . But the Opinion of some men have been , That a Countess , Baronness , and other women of great Estate , cannot maintain an Action upon the Statute de Scandalis magnatum , because the Statute 2 Rich. 2. speaketh but of Prelates , Dukes , Earls , Barons , and of the Chancellor , Treasurer , Privy Seal , Steward of the King's Houshold , and other Nobles , great Officers of the Realm ; by which words they conceive that the meanings of the Makers of that Statute was only to provide in that case for Noblemen , and not for Noble women . Also if any of the King's Servants within the Check-Roll do conspire the death of any Noble woman , it is not Felony within the compass of the Statute 3 Hen. 7. 18. Honourable women , as before noted , are of three sorts , by Creation , by Descent , and by Marriage . And the King may create any woman into any Title of Honour at his pleasure : and the King by his Letters Patents openly read in Parliament , without any other Investure , did create Mary Fane Widow , the sole Daughter of Baron of Aburgaveny , Baronness de le Spencer . Noble women by Descent are , either those to whom the Lands holden by such Dignity do descend as Heir , and they are said to be Honourable , by Tenure ; or by whose worthy Ancestors , to whom they were Heirs , was seized of an Estate descendable to them in their Titles of Dukedoms , Earldoms , or Baronies ; or those whose Ancestors were summoned to Parliament , for hereby also Inheritance doth accrew to their Posterities . Noble women are also those , who do take to their Husbands any Lord or Peer of the Realm , although they themselves were not of any degree of Nobility . Question and doubt hath been made , Whether if a man be summoned to Parliament , and afterwards die without Issue Male , the Dignity and Title of Honour may descend to the Heir Female . And many Arguments have been pro & contra in that case , which at this time I purposely omit , because I have before discoursed thereof in the Chapter of Barons . Concerning the Title of Honour descendable to the Heir Female by reason of a Tenure of her Ancestors , there needs no more doubt to be made than of Offices of Honour , the which do much support the publick wealth , and being of Estate of Inheritance , do descend to the Heir Female , if there be no nearer Heir Male : As the Office of High Constableship of England challenged in the time of Henry the Eighth by the Duke of Buckingham , and adjudged by the Advise and Resolution of the Judges , as by a note of that Case extant , whereof Dyer in his Reports hath a memorial 205. b. Kelway , the Sixth of Henry the Eighth 170. b. which descended to the Daughter of Humphrey de Bohune , Earl of Hereford and Essex , as before is declared . The Office of the Lord Steward descended to Blaunch , Daughter of Henry Earl of Lancaster , in whose right Iohn of Gaunt her Husband enjoyed the same . The like may be said of the Office of Earl-Marshal , which descended by an Heir Female unto the House of Norfolk : All which Offices are as unfit to be exercised by a Woman , as for a Woman of Honour to be summoned to the Parliament . And when a Title of Honour doth descend to a Woman , if question in Law do arise between the said Noble woman and any other person , whether she be of that Degree of Nobleness or no , the Issue shall be tried by the Record thereof , and by the King 's Writ it shall be certified , and not by a Jury of twelve Men , even as it should have been in case her Ancestor had been party . Although the Laws of the Realm regularly do make all the Daughters ( where there are no Sons ) equally to inherit Lands and Tenements , and to be but one Heir to their Ancestor ; yet it is not so in the descent of Dignity and Titles of Honour : for Inheritances concerning matter of Honour , being things in their nature participating of Superiority and Eminency , are not partable amongst many , and therefore must of necessity descend unto one , and that is to the eldest Daughter , Sister , Aunt , or Cosin Female , and inheritable where there is no Heirs Males that may lawfully challenge the same . And so in this point is the Civil Law. Nevertheless , there was a Judgment in the time of Henry the Third , touching the descent of the Earldom of Chester , after the death of the Earl , who died without Issue , his Sisters being his Heirs ; which Judgment was , That the said Earldom should be divided amongst the said Copartners as the other Lands ; and that the eldest should not have it alone . But this Judgment was holden Erroneous , even in those times wherein it was given : For Bracton , a Learned Judge , who lived in that Age , writeth thereof , treating of partition between Copartners , lib. 2. Case 24. by which it is evident , That Baronies and Dignities of Honour do by the Laws of this Realm descend unto the eldest Copartner ; and the Judgment given once to the contrary thereof , Bracton doth rightly account to be unjust : His Reason is notable ; Forasmuch as the Honour of the Chivalry of this Realm doth chiefly consist in the Nobility , Reason would not that such Dignity should be divided amongst Copartners , whereby through multitude of partitions the reputation of Honour in such Succession , and so divided , might be impaired , or the strenght of the Realm , being drawn into many hands , with decrease of livelyhood by such partition , should be infeebled . In which Resolution Britton , the Learned Bishop of Hereford ( who compiled his Book of the Laws of this Realm , by the Commandment , and in the Name of Edward the First ) accordeth , Britton 187. And therefore , howsoever the Judgment was given , or whensoever , it is nevertheless very evident that it was soon redressed : For if it were given upon the death of Ralph , the last of that Name Earl of Chester , who died about the Seventh of Henry the Third without Issue , the Writers of that time do testifie , that the Earldom of Chester came wholly unto Iohn Scott , the Son of David Earl of Huntington , and Auguish and Maud , the eldest Sisters of the said Ralph , if it were given upon the death of the said Iohn Scott , who died about the Four and twentieth of Henry the Third without Issue ; yet notwithstanding the said Judgment stood in force , for that the said King assumed the Earldom into his own Hands upon other satisfaction made to the said Sisters , Copartners of the said Iohn Scott● Ne tanta haereditas inter colos deduceretur Matth. Paris Monaster . Sancti Allane in Crompton , fol. 366. b. Nevertheless you may read in this Treatise of Heraldry , written by Iohn Guillim about fol. 18. That Sisters are allowed no differences of Badges in their Coat-Armour , by reason that by them the name of the House cannot be preserved , but are admitted to the Inheritance equally , and are adjudged but one Heir to all intents and purposes whatsoever . And the knowledge of this point in these days is worthy to be enquired into ; for this is to be observed out of Presidents , and to be acknowledged of every dutiful Subject , that the King can advance to Honour whom he pleaseth : And therefore whereas Radulph Cromwell , being a Baron by Writ , died without Issue , having two Sisters and Coheirs ; Elizabeth the eldest married unto Sir Thomas Nevill Knight , and Ioan the younger married to Sir Humphrey Bowcher , who was called to Parliament as Lord Cromwell , and not the said Sir Thomas Nevill who married the eldest Sister . And Hugh Lupus , the first and greatest Earl of Chester , Habendum sibi & haeredibus adeo libere per gladium sicut iple Rex tenuit Angliam per tenorem . Hugh died without Issue , and the Inheritance of his Earldom was divided amongst his four Sisters , and the eldest had not the Seigniory entire unto herself . If a Woman be Noble by Birth or Descent , with whomsoever she doth marry , although her Husband be under her Degree , yet she doth remain Noble ; for Birth-right est Character indelebilis . Other Women are enobled by Marriage ; and the Text saith thus , viz. Women ennobled with the Honour of their Husbands , and with the Kindred of their Husbands , we worship them in the Court , we decree matters to pass in the Names of their Husbands , and into the House and Surname of their Husbands do we translate them : But if afterwards a Woman do marry with a Man of a baser Degree , then she loseth her former Dignity , and followeth the condition of her latter Husband . And concerning the second disparaged Marriage as aforesaid , many other Books of the Law do agree ; for these be Rules conceived in those Cases : Si mulier nobilis nupserit ignobili desinit esse nobilis , & eodem modo quo quid constituitur dissolvitur . It was the Case of Ralph Howard Esq who took to Wife Anne , the widow of the Lord Powes : they brought an Action against the Duke of Suffolk , by the Name of Ralph Howard Esq and the Lady Anne Powes his Wife , and exception was taken for mis-naming of her ; because she ought to have been named of her Husband's Name , and not otherwise : and the Exception was by the Court allowed ; For , said they , by the Law of God she is Sub potestate viri ; and by our Law her Name of Dignity shall be changed according to the Degrees of her Husband , notwithstanding the Courtesie of the Ladies of Honour and Court : Dyer 79. And the like is also in Queen Maries Reign , when the Dutchess of Suffolk took to her Husband Adrian Brook , Title Brief , 54. 6. And many other Presidents have been of later times . And herewith agreeth the Civil Law , Digest . lib. 1. title q. lege 1. In this Case of acquired Nobility by marriage , if question in Law be , whereupon an Issue is taken between the Parties , that is to say , Dutchesses are not Dutchesses , Countesses are not Countesses , and Baronesses are not Baronesses ; the Trial whereof shall not be by Record ( as in the former Case ) but by a Jury of Twelve men ; and the reason of the diversity is because in this Case the Dignity is accrued unto her by her Marriage , which the Lawyers term Matter in Fact , and not by any Record . But a Noble Woman by marriage , though she take to her second Husband a man of mean Degree , yet she may keep two Chaplains , according to the Proviso in the Statute of 11. Hen. 8. Case 13. for and in respect of the Honour which once she had , viz. at the time of the Retainer : And every such Chaplain may purchase Licence and Dispensation , &c. And Chaplains may not be Non-residents afterwards . And forasmuch as the retaining of Chaplains by Ladies of great Estate is ordinary , and nevertheless some questions in Law have been concerning the true understanding of the said Statute Law ; I think it not impertinent to set down subsequent Resolutions of the Judges touching such matters . So long as the Wife of a Duke is called Dutchess , or of an Earl a Countess , and have the fruition of the Honour appertaining to their Estate , with kneeling , tasting , serving ; so long shall a Baron's Widow be saluted Lady , as is also a Knight's Wife by the courtesie of England , quamdi● matrimonium aut viduitas uxoris durant ; except she happen to clope with an Adulterer : for as the Laws of this Kingdom do adjudge that a Woman shall lose her Dowry in that ( as unto Lands , Tenements , and Justice ; ) so doth the Laws of Gentry and Nobleness give Sentence against such a Woman , advanced to Titles of Dignity by the Husband , to be unworthy to enjoy the same , when she putting her Husband out of her mind , subjects her self unto another . If a Lady which is married come through the Forest , she shall not take any thing ; but a Dutchess , Marchioness , or Countess shall have advantage of the Statute de Charta Forest. 12 Artic. during the time that she is unmarried . This is a Rule in the Civil Law , Si filia Regis nubat alicui Duci vel Comiti , ducetur tamen semper regalis . As amongst Noble Women there is a difference of Degrees , so according to their distinct Excellencies the Law doth give special priviledges , as followeth : By the Statute 25 Edw. 3. cap. 1. it is High Treason to compass or imagine the death of the Queen , or to violate the King's Companion . The King's Response is a sole person , except by the Common Law ; and she may purchase in Feesimple , or make Leases or Grants with the King ; she may plead and be impleaded , which no other married Woman can do without her Husband . All Acts of Parliament for any cause , which any way may concern the Queen , are such Statutes whereof the Judges ought to take Recognizances as of general Statutes : though the matter doth only concern the capacity of the Queen , yet it doth also concern all the Subjects of the Realm ; for every Subject hath interest in the King , and none of his Subjects within his Laws are divided from the King , who is Head and Sovereign , so that his business concerns all the Realm : and as the Realm hath interest in the King , so and for the same Reason is the Queen , being his Wife . A man seized of divers Lands in Fee holden by Knight's Service , some by Priority ( that is by ancient Feoffment holden of others ) and some other part holden of the King in posteriority ; the King granteth his Seigniory to the Queen during her life ; and afterwards the Tenant dieth , his Son within Age : in this case he shall have the Wardship of the Body , and have the Prerogative even as the King himself should have had . The Queen Consort or Dowager shall not be amerced , if she be Nonsuited in any Action or otherwise ; in which case any other Subject , of what degree soever , shall be amerced : for in that case the Queen shall participate of the King's Prerogative . But the Queen shall not in all cases have the same prerogative as the King ; as for Example , Petition is all the remedy the Subject hath when the King seizeth his Lands , or taketh away his Goods from him , having no Title by order of Law so to do , contrary to the Opinion of some ancient Books , as you may see Stamford's Prerogative , Case 19. But no such Suit shall be made to the Queen , but Actions as against other Lieges of the King , according as the Case shall require : For by the same Reason that the Queen may be Plaintiff or Demandant in Actions without the King , by the same Reason she shall be Defendant without the part taking of such Prerogatives as do appertain to the King. Against the King by his Prerogative nullum tempus occurrit ; but it is not so with the Queen , 18 Edw. 3. 2. a. And plenarily by six months is a good Plea in a Quare Impedit brought by Philip Regina Anglia , ibidem fol. 1. 13. b. Stamford's Prerogative , Case 18. prope finem . In the 22 Edw. 3. 6. it is thus to be read ; Note that a Protection was sued forth against the Queen in a Writ which she brought , and it was allowed , though she be a person exempt . Nevertheless by this short Case following may be observed , That the Justices do not easily suffer any proceedings in Law against the Queen ( Wife or Widow ; ) but will hold with their Immunities so much as by Law they may . A Writ of Dower was brought against Isabel Queen of England , and Mother to the then King ; and the Court said to the Plaintiff , The Queen is a person of Dignity and Excellency , and we are of Opinion that she shall not answer to the Writ , but that she should be sued unto by Petition . And thereupon the Demandant dixit gratis , and she prayed the Court to grant a Continuance of Action until another day , so that in the mean time she might speak with the Queen : But the Court would not agree to make a Continuance ; but said , That upon her request they might give day prae re pertin . and so it was done ; for the Queen's Counsel would not agree to a Continuance , for thereby the Queen shall be accepted as answerable . Neither do I suppose that I have digressed from any former purpose for making mention in those Cases concerning the Queen Consort : For notwithstanding the intermarriage with the Sovereign King , yet she is no other than a King 's Subject , whether she be of a Foreign Nation , or a Native born ; and though she be by the favour of the King solemnly crowned Queen , yet that is but a Royal Ceremony , and no essential Exception , whereby she may not from henceforth be accounted in the rank of Noble Women . And this hath been proved by the effect in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth , when some of the Wives , crowned Queens , have been Arraigned of High Treason , and therefore put to Trial by the Nobles of the Realm as her Peers . The Wife of the King 's eldest Son hath also some Prerogatives in regard of the Excellency of her Husband , which the Wives of other Noblemen have not : For by the Statute of the Thrteenth of Edward the Third , it is High Treason to violate the Wife of the King 's eldest Son and Heir . Dutchesses and Countesses have special Honours appertaining to their Estates ; as Kneeling , Tasting , &c. which things are more appertaining properly to the Heralds , than to be here treated of . Ladies in Reputation . THE Wife or Widow of the Son and Heir of a Duke or Earl in the life time of his Father , is a Lady by Courtesie of Speech and Honour , and taketh place according as in ancient time hath been permitted by the Sovereign Prince , and allowance of the Heralds ; but in legal proceedings they are not Priviledged , nor to be named according to such Names of Dignity . But the King may at his pleasure create such Men , in the life of their Ancestors , unto degrees of Lord's of his Parliament , and then the Law is otherwise . If a Noble Woman of Spain come into this Realm by safe Conduct , or otherwise , though in the Letters of safe Conduct by the King she be styled by such her Sovereign Title ; yet in the King's Courts of Justice she shall not be named by such Title , though in common Speech she is styled a Lady . An English Woman born doth taken to her Husband a French or Spanish Duke , though he be made a Denizen , yet she shall not bear his Title of Dignity in Legal Proceedings . A German Woman is married to a Peer of the Realm , and unless she be made a Denizen , she cannot lawfully claim the Priviledges or Titles of her Husband , no more than she can to have Dower or Joynture from him . An English Woman doth take to her Husband an Irish Earl ; or if a Lord of Scotland ( though he be a Postnatus ) take an English Woman to his Wife , their Wives shall not participate of their Husbands Titles of Dignity . But if the King do create one of his Subjects of Scotland or Ireland a Peer of this Realm , then shall he and his Wife enjoy all the Priviledges of a Nobleman . But if an English man by the Emperor be made an Earl of the Empire , his Wife shall not bear that Title of Honour . All the Daughters of Dukes , Marquisses , and Earls are by the ancient Custome of the Realm styled Ladies , and have precedency according to the Degrees of their Parents ; And of this Custome the Laws do take notice , and give allowance for Honour and Decency : But nevertheless in the King's Courts of Justice they bear not those Titles of Honour , no more than the Sons of such Noble persons may do : So in this point the Law is one way , and the Honour and Courtesie of Ladies another . And as a Civilian in like Case saith , Aliud est jus , & aliud privilegium ; nevertheless the Books of our Law do make mention thereof , and allow of it as a Courtesie , though not as a Law. Thus much of Women : If I have been too large upon this Subject , I crave their pardons ; and if too short , I wish I had been more large for their Honour : Yet let them compare their Conditions with that of their Neighbouring Nations , and 't is believed they have reason to judge themselves the happiest Women in the World ; but Nemo sua sorte contentus . None truly value what they do possess : Birth , Beauty , Titles , Riches in excess , Are all a Plague , if ought else we desire ; The loss of that makes all our joys on fire . The Right Noble Frances Stewart dutchess dowager of Richmond and Lenox & ● a. The Rt. honble . Ann Stuart Baroness of Castle Stuart in ye. Kingdome of Ireland Relict of the Rt. honble . Iosias Baron of Castle Stuart and Daughter of Iohn Maddē of Rousky Castle in ye. County of Fermenaugh●● y● sd. Kingdome Esq r Katherine Gam 's daughter and Coheire of Hoo Gam 's of Newton in Brecknock shire Esq r , Grand daughter to Sr. Iohn Gam 's discended by the elder house from the mighty Sr. David Gam'● of Newton afores ● who did wonders at the battle of Agencourt , who was discended from Tudor the grea● King of South Wales . The occation of wearing the Leek was from that family . vide see● chapt. 4. Katherine Sedley sole daughter and heyre of Sr. Charles Sedley of South fleet in Kent Baronet . OF KNIGHTHOOD IN GENERAL● CHAP. XVI . ALthough I am not of the Opinion of some that vainly derive the Order of Knighthood from St. Michael the Archangel , whom they term the primier Chevalier ; yet I may say that it is near as ancient as Valour and Heroick Vertue , and may derive its Original from Troy , which bred many Noble and Renowned Knights ; amongst which were Hector , Troilus , AEneas , and Antenor . So among the Greeks were Agamemnon , Menelaus , Peleus , Hercules , Diomedes , Telamon , Vlysses , and several others , whose Military and Heroick Acts purchased unto them a never dying Fame . And the Romans took so great care for the cherishing and advancement of Heroick and Military Vertue and Honour , that they erected and dedicated Temples to Vertue and Honour ; and from the infancy of their Military Glory they instituted a Society of Knights , which consisted of a select number . And some there are that plead to have Knighthood take its rise from Romulus : For , say they , that Romulus having settled his Government in Rome , partly for Security , and partly for magnificence , erected or inrolled three Bands or Centuries of Knighthood or Horsmen ; the first he called Romene from his own Name ; the second Titience from Titus Tacitus ; and the third Luceria , whereof mention is made by Livy . And this Inrollment consisted of Three hundred stout and personable men , chosen out of the chiefest Families , and were to attend him as his Life-guard , both in Peace and War , and were called Celeres , or Equites , from their personal Valour and dexterity in Martial Affairs . And to add to the Honour of Knighthood , the Romans oft-times made the Knights Judges for the management of their Civil Affairs , yet continued they of the Equestrian Order . The Romans called their Knights Milites , or Miles , and Equites , or Equites Aurati ; the Italians and Spaniards , Cavalieri ; the French , Chevaliers ; and the English , Knights . The Addition of Sir is attributed to the Names of all Knights , as Sir Iohn , Sir Thomas , and the like . And to Baronets the said Addition of Sir is granted unto them by a peculiar Clause in their Patents of Creation , although they are not dubbed Knights . No man is born a Knight of any Title or Degree whatsoever , but made so ; either before a Battel , to encourage him to adventure his Life ; or after the ●ight , as an advancement to Honour for their valiant Acts. And although Knighthood , according to its first Institution , was only a Military Honour ; yet of later days , it hath been● frequently seen , that meritorious persons in Civil Affairs have this degree of Honour conferred upon them . Nor ar● Kings , Princes , or Potentates at any time limitted or confined their bestowing this Dignity , being at all times free to bestow it on whomsoever they shall in their Princely favour think worthy to be advanced to the said Honour , either for their Merit , Birth , of Estate . The Ensigns or Ornaments belonging to Knighthood are many , each Country or Kingdom having those peculiar to it self : I shall name some of the chief . To the Knights of the Equestrian Order amongst the ancient Romans was given a Horse , or a Gold Ring . The Germans gave the Badge of the Shield and Launce . The French anciently gave also the Shield and Launce ( as Favin notes ) but since they used the Equestrian Target . Another Knightly Ornament is the Military Belt , first made of Leather , which afterwards came to be richly adorned with Gold and precious Stones ; and to this Belt was added a Sword. Other Ornaments were gilt or golden Spurs , and golden Collars of SS . But these have been for a long time laid aside ; and instead thereof is only used Dubbing with a naked Sword to Knights Batchelors , which I shall speak of when I treat of Knights Batchelors . Many have been , and yet are , the Degrees and Order of Knighthood in Christendom , each Kingdom having some appropriated to themselves : which though many of them are now extinct ; yet I shall touch upon them , as I find them Recorded by Sir William Segar in his Volume of Honour Military and Civil , and by Elias Ashmole , Esq in his incomparable Volume of the Order of the Garter , to which I refer the Curious Reader for his further satisfaction . And of these Degrees or Orders I shall first treat of those used amongst us , beginning with that of the most Noble Order of the Garter ; next with the Knights Bannerets ; then with Baronets , this being their proper place according to precedency , although something improper , as not being of any degree of Knighthood ; next with Knights of the Bath ; then with Knights Batchelors ; and so conclude with those Degrees of Knighthood in Foreign Kingdoms and Countries . His Royall Highness Iames Duke of Yorke and Albany Kt. of the most noble order of the Garter , and sole brother to his sacred maty . King Charles the 2d. &c a. The Effigies of the most honble . Henry Somerset , Marques and Earle of Worcester . Ld. Herbert , Baron of Chipston Raglon and Gowen Lord President and Ld. Leivtenant of Wales , and the Marches , Lord Leivtenant of the Countyes of Glocester , Hereford , and Monmouth , and of the Cilty and County of Bristol , Knight of the most noble order of the Garter , and one of the Lords of his matys . most honble . Privy Councell . The Effigies of the Right honble . Henry Bennet Earle and Baron of Arlington Viscount Thetsord Knight of the most noble order of the Garter Lord Chamberlaine of his Ma ●●s . Household and one of the Lords of his most Honourable privy Councell &c a. KNIGHTS Of the most Noble Order of the Garter , OR St GEORGE . CHAP. XVII . IT was the custome and policy of puissant Princes in all Ages to invite and secure to themselves persons of Renown , and such Heroick Spirits were encouraged with Remarks of Honour , ( viz. eminent priviledges of Place , different Habits , and additional Titles ) to distinguish them from the Vulgar , besides other opulent Rewards : And amongst those persons , the more eminent or excellent of merit were placed in a Superior Orb , that their Glory might be the more splendid to the World. Such were King David's mighty men , the Satrapae of Persia , the Orders Military amongst the Romans , and the many Institutions of Knighthood in Christendome : But of all Orders purely Military now extant , I must prefer this of St. George , which we call the Garter ; not only because it is our own Nation , or that none are commonly admitted but Peers , but for the excellency of it self . First , for its Antiquity ; Secondly , for its glorious Institution by that Renowned King Edward ; And thirdly , for the many Emperors , Kings , and Princes that have been admitted into the said Fraternity . First , I find it agreable to all Histories , that 't was instituted by King Edward the Third , Anno 1350. which was fifty years before the Instituting the French Order of St. Michael by Lewis the Eleventh ; Two hundred twenty nine years before Henry the Third devised the new Order of the Holy Ghost , full Eighty years before the Order of the Golden Fleece was instituted by Philip the Good of Burgundy ; One hundred and ninety years before King Iames the Fifth refined the Order of St. Andrew in Scotland ; and about Two hundred and nine years before the Kings of Denmark begun the Order of the Elephant ; which gives it clearly the pre-eminency before other Orders in point of Antiquity . For the occasion of the pristine Institution you must know , King Edward the Third having engaged himself in a War with France ( for the obtaining of that Crown which descended on him in right of his Mother ) thought fit to allure to his party all such Gallant Spirits as were Friends to Bellona ; and to that end erected a Round Table in the Castle of Windsor in imitation of King Arthur's at Winchester , where they were exercised at Tilts and Tournaments , and Royally entertained with magnificent Feasts and other Princely Favours to engage them unto him . But Philip of Vallois , who was in actual possession of the Crown of France , countermined him by erecting a like Table in his own Court , whereby he drew away many from King Edward , so that being disappointed in that Project , and yet proving victorious in his Arms against France and Scotland , at his Return he rewarded the most eminent of those Heroick Knights that had born the brunt of the Day , and persevered in their Loyalty , with this Noble Order , which consisted of Six and twenty , of which himself was one ; being all persons of choice Endowments , of great renown in Chivalry , and such as should be bound by Oath and Honour to adhere unto him . And upon the death of any one of them , the place was to be supplied by another , elected by the King and his Successors , who are Sovereigns of the said Order , with the consent of the Fraternity ; but now the Election is at the entire pleasure of the King. Ther● are many Articles confirmed unto them , to which all that are enstalled Subscribe , besides the forementioned Oath , viz. that whilst they shall be Fellows of the Order they will defend the Honour , Quarrels , Rights and Lordships of the Sovereign ; that they will endeavour to preserve the Honour of the said Order , and all the Statutes made for the same , without fraud or covin , Quinam perjurati . It is also esteemed most Honourable , there having been more Emperors , Kings , and Foreign Princes of this one Order , than of all others in a manner in the World ; which Honour is obtained by keeping precisely to the primitive Number , never exceeding Six and twenty ; whereas all others of this kind have been so frankly communicated unto all pretenders , that at last they lost their lustre and esteem in the World. Of this Order there hath been no less than eight Emperors , seven Kings of Portugal , two Kings of Scots before the Union , five Kings of Denmark , three of Naples , one of Poland , and two of Sueden , besides many Foreign Sovereign Princes of Italy , Germany , &c. The Order and Institution being Honourable , and by many Learned Pens sufficiently cleared from the envy of Froysart , and other French men ; as also from the folly of Polydore Virgil , who favours the Romantick Story of the fair Countess of Salisbury , who being a dancing with the said King Edward , let fall her Garter , which the King took up and tied about his Leg ; at which the Queen being jealous , he gave this Motto , Honi sort qui mal y pense , that is , Evil be to him that evil thinks . The Patron of this Order is St. George , a Man of great Renown for Chivalry ; he suffered Martyrdom at Lydda under Dioclesian , saith Mr. Selden ; supposed by Dr. Helyn to have been martyrred at Nicomedia , the principal Seat then of the Eastern Empire ; and by others at Diosprilia or Lyddea in Palestine , where he is said to be interred ; whose Fame was so great in the World , that many Temples and Monasteries were dedicated to him in the Eastern Countries , from whence his esteem came into England , who celebrated to his memory the Three and twentieth of April with the rest of the Universal Church : But how long he has been honoured as Patron and Protector of England is disputable ; Mr. Selden concludes before the Conquest ; And 't is no marvel ( saith he ) that so warlike a people should make choice of such a Souldier-Saint , known by the particular name of Tropheophorus , of greater eminency in both the Eastern and Western Churches than any other Souldier-Saint . To this Tutelary Saint or Patron of Martial men King Edward commends himself and his Companions , called The Knights of St. George : And having both beautified and enlarged his Castle at Windsor to be the Royal Seat of this Order , he caused a solemn Proclamation to be made in France , Spain , &c. to invite all Military Spirits to attend those Tilts and Tournaments which were intended to be kept , not only on St. George's day then next ensuing , which was designed for the day of Institution , but for fifteen days before , and as many after ; and that the memory of St. George might be still continued , he gave them for a part of their daily Habit the Image of St. George encountring with the Dragon or Devil , inchased with Pearls and precious Stones , appendant to a blue Ribon , continually to be worn about their necks . As for the Habit of this Order , besides the George and Ribon before mentioned , and a Garter enamelled with Gold , Pearl , and precious Stones , with the Motto , Honi soit qui mal y pense embroydered upon it , which is fastned about the left Leg with a buckle of Gold , from whence they were called Knights of the Garter , and without these two Ornaments none of these Knights are to appear in publique ; There also properly belongs to this Order a Cassock of crimson Velvet , and a Mantle and Hood of purple Velvet , lined with white Sarsnet , on the left shoulder , whereof is an Escocheon of St. George embroidered with a Garter , within the Motto : The Escocheon is Argent , a Cross , Gules . But these to be worn only upon St. George's day , and when it shall please the Sovereign to celebrate the Ceremonies of the Installations . To each Knight belongs a Collar of the Order made of pure Gold , weighing thirty Ounces of Troy weight , composed of Garters and Roses , enamelled with Roses red and white ; and since the coming of King Iames , there hath been an intermixture of Thistles ; the Image of St. George enriched with precious Stones appendant to it , to be worn over all the Robes at St. George's Feast , and over their ordinary Cloaks , upon all such days on which the Sovereign is bound by Statute to make Offerings . Also besides these Robes and Ornaments appointed by the Founder , it was ordered by K. Charles the first , That all Knights should ordinarily wear upon their Cloaks or Coats , on the left side , a Star of Silver imbroidery , with the Escocheon of St. George within the Garter , &c. in the Center of it . But the Habit doth more lively appear by the Pourtraiture representing the Habit of the said Order . In some of these Habiliments these Knights are attired in publick , as the diversity of the occasion requireth ; but always in their stateliest Robes and richest Collars when the Solemnities of the Order are to be performed , that is , the celebrating of St. George's Feast , and in the Act of their Installations , in the Free Chappel of St. George , built within the verge and limits of the Castle , at the Foundation whereof was appointed a Dean , Prebends , and poor Gentlemen established , to be maintained with Stipends , by the Name of Knights ( or poor Knights ) of Windsor , who have provided for them Robes of Cloth according to them of their Order , who are to pray for the Order . Concerning the Ceremony of the Installation you are to know , that every Knight is bound to fasten an Escocheon of their Arms on a plate of Metal on their several Stalls , with an Inscription of their Names , Titles , and Honour , which they remove as they are advanced in order higher . And in this order they also advance their Banners , Swords , and Helmets , which are continually over their Stalls during their being of that Order , that plate of their Arms being left unto the Stall in which they last sate ; the Hatchment taken down to make room for such as succeed unto the deceased or higher removed Knights , touching which they are placed according to the Seniority of their Creations , and not according to their Dignities and Titles of Honour ; so that sometimes a Knight Batchelor hath place before an Earl or Duke ; as not long since Sir Henry Lea Knight , Keeper of the Armory , had precedency of the Duke of Lenox , besides Earls and Barons : only in honour to Strangers who are Sovereign Princes , or Sons or Brothers to such , it is permitted by the Rule of Order that they take place according to the quality of these persons ; but this by a late Indulgence . Anciently if a King crowned came in place of a Knight Batchelor , he sate there without any difference ; but this alteration was made , as 't is supposed , by King Henry the Seventh , in reference to Foreign Princes ; the rest continue in their Stalls where first seated ; so that the Sovereign reserved to themselves the power once in their Lives ( so saith the Statute ) to make a general translation of all the Stalls , except of Emperors and Foreign Princes , which order continues to this day . Much may be said in honour of this Noble Order : but it being so well and accurately treated of by that great Antiquary Elias Ashmole Esq in a large Volume in Folio lately published by him , entituled The Institution , Laws , and Ceremonies of the most Noble Order of the Garter , that nothing more can be said thereof , which he hath illustrated with great variety of useful & ornamental Sculptures ; I shall therefore conclude by setting down the Heads of the several Chapters and Sections by him so learnedly treated of , recommending to the Reader the said Volume as a Work fit to adorn and enrich the Libraries of the most Curious . The first Chapter treats of Knighthoood in general , which is divided into ten Sections . Chap. II. Of the Religious Orders of Knighthood in Christendome , divided into five Sections . Chap. III. Of Military Orders of Knighthood , in three Sections . Chap. IV. Treats of the Castle , Chappel , and Colledge of Windsor , in eight Sections : 1. Of the Castle ; 2. Of the Chappel ; 3. The Foundation of the Colledge ; 4. Of the Dean , Canons , Clerks and Choristers ; 5. Of the Poor Knights ; 6. Of other Officers of the Colledge ; 7. Of the Endowment of the Colledge ; And 8. of the Priviledges of the Chappel and Colledge . Chap. 5. Treats of the Institution of the Order , in five Sections : 1. The Opinions concerning the occasion of its Institution ; 2. The true Cause inserted ; 3. The Time of its Institution ; 4. Of the Patrons of the Order ; And 5. the Honour and Reputation thereof . Chap. VI. Treats of the Statutes and Annals of the Order , in four Sections : 1. Of the Statutes and Institutions ; 2. Of those other bodies of Statutes since established ; 3. The endeavours for the reforming the Statutes since King Henry the Eighth ; And 4. of the Annals of the Order . Chap. VII . Treats of the Habit and Ensigns of the Order , in ten Sections : 1. Of the Garter ; 2. Of the Mantle ; 3. Of the Surcoat ; 4. Of the Cap and Hood ; 5. The Robes anciently assigned to the Queen and great Ladies ; 6. The Collar in general ; 7. The Collar of the Order ; 8. The Collar of SS ; 9. The lesser George ; And 10. when the Habits , in whole or in part , ought to be worn . Chap. VIII . Treats of the Officers appointed for the Service of the Order , in seven Sections : 1. The Prelat's Institution , his Oath , Robe and Priviledges ; 2. The Institution of the Chancellor's Office , with his Oath , Badge , and Pension ; 3. The Register's Institution , with his Oath , Mantle , Badge , &c. 4. Garter's Institution , with his Oath , Mantle , &c. 5. The Institution of the Black Rod's Office , with his Oath , Habit , &c. 6. The payment of the Officers Pensions upon the new Establishment ; And 7. the Execution of these Offices by Deputies . Chap. IX . Treats of the Election of a Knight into this Order , in eighteen Sections : 1. Of Summons to the Election ; 2. The place of the Assembly ; 3. The number of the Knights ; 4. The Dispensation for want of a full number ; 5. Of opening the Chapter ; 6. That Knights only present in Chapter ought to nominate ; 7. Of the number , qualifications , and degrees of those persons to be nominated ; 8. Of the Scrutiny , and by whom it ought to be taken ; 9. The time when ; 10. The Order and Manner of it ; 11. The presentation of it to the Sovereign ; 12. His considerations referring to the qualifications of the person to be elected ; 13. Of other inducements for Election ; 14. The Sovereign only Electeth ; 15. The Scrutiny ought not to be entred amongst the Annals ; 16. The Scrutiny ought not to be viewed until it be entred ; 17. Of Scrutinies taken , yet no Election made ; And 18. the penalties inflicted on Knights Companions who appear not at the Election . Chap. X. Treats of the Investure of a Knight-Subject with the Garter and George , in six Sections : 1. The notice given to a Knight-Subject of his Election ; 2. His reception into the Chapter-house ; 3. The Ceremonies of Investiture with the Garter and George ; 4. Of sending the Garter and George to an elect Knight-Subject ; 5. The manner of a Knight's Investiture ; And 6. the Allowances and Rewards given to Garter King at Arms for his Service in this Employment . Chap. XI . Of the preparations for the personal Installation of a Knight , in seven Sections : 1. That Installation gives the Title of Founder ; 2. Of the time and place appointed for Installation ; 3. Of Commissions for Installation ; 4. Of Letters of Summons ; 5. Of Warrants for the Livery of the Order ; 6. The removal of Atchievements and Plates ; And 7. preparations made by Knights Elect. Chap. XII . Treats of the personal Installation of a Knight-Subject , in eleven Sections : 1. Of the Cavalcade to Windsor ; 2. The Offerings in the Chappel on the Eve of the Installation ; 3. The Supper on the Eve ; 4. The order in proceeding to the Chapter-house ; 5. The Ceremonies performed in the Chapter-house ; 6. The proceeding into the Choire . 7. The Ceremonies of Installation ; 8. The order observed when two or more Knights are installed in one day ; 9. The Offerings of Gold and Silver ; 10. The grand Dinner at the Installation ; And 11. of setting up the Knight's Atchievements . Chap. XIII . Treats of the Installation of a Knight-Subject by proxy , in nine Sections : 1. The original cause of making Proxies ; 2. Letters of Procuration ; 3. Qualifications of a Proxy ; 4. Preparations for Installations ; 5. Proceeding to the Chapter-house ; 6. Transactions in it ; 7. Proceeding to the Choire ; 8. Ceremonies performed there ; And 9. the grand Dinner . Chap. XIV . Treats of the signification of Election to Strangers , in five Sections ; 1. In what time and manner Certificate is made for their Election ; 2. Of notice given of an Election before sending the Habit ; 3. Notice of Election sent with the Habit ; 4. Certificate of acceptation ; And 5. of an Election not accepted of . Chap. XV. Treats of the Investiture of Strangers with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order , in four Sections : 1. The time for sending the Habit and Ensigns unlimited ; 2. Preparations made for the Legation ; 3. The Ceremonies of Investiture ; And 4. Certificates of having received the Habit and Ensigns of the Order . Chap. XVI . Treats of the Installation of a Stranger by Proxy , in thirteen Sections : 1. Touching the choice and nomination of a Proxy ; 2. The Proctor's qualifications ; 3. His Letters of Procuration ; 4. Of the Proctor's Reception ; 5. The preparations for Installation ; 6. The Proctor's Cavalcade to Windsor ; 7. Supper after his arrival there ; 8. Of the proceeding to the Chapter-house ; 9. The Ceremonies performed therein ; 10. Of the proceeding to the Choire ; 11. The Ceremonies of Installation ; 12. The Proctor's Offerings ; And 13. the Dinner . Chap. XVII , Treats of the Duties and Fees payable by the Knights-Companions at their Installations , in four Sections : 1. Concerning the Fees due to the Colledge of Windsor ; 2. Fees due to the Register , Garter , Black Rod , and Officers of Arms ; 3. Fees belonging to others of the Sovereign's Servants ; And 4. Fees payable for Strangers . Chap. XVIII . Treats of the Grand Feast of the Order , in ten Sections : 1. The Grand Feast appointed to be annually kept on St. George's day ; 2. The Anniversary of St. George fixed by the Church unto the Three and twentieth of April ; 3. St. George's day made Festum duplex ; 4. The place for celebrating the Grand Feast assigned to Windsor Castle ; 5. St. George's day kept apart from the Grand Feast , and how then observed ; 6. The Grand Feast neglected by King Edward the Sixth ; 7. Removed from Windsor by Queen Elizabeth ; 8. Of prorogation of the Grand Feast ; 9. Of Commissions for prorogation ; And 10. that the Grand Feast ought to be celebrated once every year . Chap. XIX . Of preparations for the Grand Feast of the Order , in eight Sections : 1. Of Letters giving notice of the time and place ; 2. Of Dispensations for not attending at the Grand Feast ; 3. Of Commissions of Lieutenancy and Assistance ; 4. Warrants for the Removal of Atchievements ; 5. Scutcheons of Arms and Styles ; 6. Of adorning the Chappel ; 7. The furnishing of St. George's Hall ; And 8. Officers and Servants appointed to attend at the Grand Feast . Chap. XX. Treats of the order of the Ceremonies on the Eve of the Grand Feast , in seven Sections : 1. Of the beginning of the Grand Feast ; 2. Of setting the proceeding in order ; 3. Of proceeding to the Chapter-house ; 4. Of the opening of the Chapter ; 5. Transactions in the Chapter held before the first Vespers ; 6. The Ceremonies relating to the first Vespers ; And 7. the Supper on the Eve. Chap. XXI . Treats of the Order of the Ceremonies on the Feast day , in nine Sections : 1. The proceeding to the Chappel in the morning ; 2. The proceeding to the second Service ; 3. Of the Grand Procession ; 4. The order of the said Service ; 5. The Offering of Gold and Silver ; 6. The return to the presence ; 7. Of the Dinner on the Feast-day ; 8. The Ceremonies belonging to the second Vespers ; And 9. of the Supper on the Evening of the Feast-day . Chap. XXII . Treats of the Ceremonies observed on the last day of the Feast , in four Sections : 1. Of proceeding to the Chapter-house in the morning ; 2. Of the elect Knights proceeding into the Choire ; 3. Of the Ceremonies performed at Divine Service ; And 4. the Diets at some of the Grand Feasts . Chap. XXIII . Treats of the Observations of the Grand Feast by absent Knights , in five Sections : 1. Absent Knights enjoyned to observe the Grand Feast ; 2. More particular directions for their observation thereof ; 3. How to be observed in case of Sickness ; 4. In what manner the Feast hath been observed by absent Knights ; And 5. Dispensation for absence granted during life . Chap. XXIV . Treats of Degradation of a Knight-Companion , in three Sections : 1. Of the Degradation of a Knight Batchelor ; 2. The manner of Degrading a Knight-Companion of the Garter ; And 3. of Restauration into the Order after Degrading . Chap. XXV . Treats of Honors paid to deceased Knights-Companions , in four Sections : 1. Of the celebration formerly of Masses for defunct Knights-Companions ; 2. Of fixing on the Stalls Plates of their Arms and Styles ; 3. The Offering of Atchievements ; And 4. of depositing the deceased Knights Mantles in the Chapter-house . Chap. XXVI . Treats of the Founder , the first Knights-Companions , and their Successors , in four Sections : 1. Of what number they consisted ; 2. A short view of the Founder's Wars ; 3. Some account of the first Five and twenty Knights-Companions ; And 4. a Catalogue of their Successors . OF Knights Bannerets . CHAP. XVIII . THIS Degree of Knighthood , called by some Equites Vexillarii , or Chevaliers a Banier , is a most ancient Order , having been used in England ever since King Edward the First ; and hath been always conferred on most deserving persons for their signal Valour , as I shall anon take occasion to speak of . 'T is the Judgment of some Antiquaries , that these Bannerets were once used as a part of the three States of the Realm ; and that it was the Custome of Kings hertofore to summon by Writ the Lords Spiritual and Temporal , with such other worthy persons of this Order as they thought fit to call to consult about the Publick Affairs of the Kingdom ; which persons thus assembled were then called a Parliament . And that those Bannerets often serving their King and Country , in process of time obtained the name of Barons , and were admitted into the Peerage , and had their Titles affixed to them and their Heirs . And this was the usuage and custome of the Saxon Kings to consult their Affairs without the election of the Commons , as both Ethelred and Edwin did . But whether this be a truth , or only opinion , I leave to others to dispute . Certain it is , they always retained some Ensigns of Honour equal to the Nobility , being allowed to bear their Arms with Supporters , which is denied to all others under the Degree of a Baron : Also they take place before all Viscounts and Barons younger Sons ; as also before all Baronets , and were of such esteem , that divers Knights Batchelors and Esquires have served under them . This Order in France was Hereditary , but with us only for life to the meritorious person ; yet esteemed a Glory and Honour to their Family . The Ceremony of their Creation is most Noble : The King ( or his General , which is very rare ) at the head of his Army ( drawn up into Battalia after a Victory ) under the Royal Standard displayed , attended with all the Field Officers and Nobles af the Court , receives the Knight led between two renowned Knights or valiant Men at Arms , having his Pennon or Guydon of Arms in his Hand ; and before them the Heralds , who proclaim his valiant Atchievements , for which he deserves to be made a Knight Banneret , and to display his Banner in the Field ; then the King ( or General ) says unto him , Advances toy Banneret , and causeth the point of his Pennon to be rent of ; and the new Knight having the Trumpets before him sounding , the Nobles and Officers accompanying him , is remitted to his Tent , where they are nobly entertained . To this degree of Knighthood doth belong peculiar Robes and other Ornaments at their Creation . A Banneret thus made may bear his Banner displayed in an Army Royal , and set his Arms thereon with Supporters , as may the Nobles . Of this Order there is at present none extant ; and the last I read of was Sir Iohn Smith , made so after Edghill fight ( for rescuing the King's Standard from the Rebels in that Battel ) who was afterwards flain in his said Majesties Service at Alresford in Hantshire . To this degree of Honour Sir William de la More ( Ancestor to the present Edward More of More-hall and Bank-hall in Lancashire , Esq ) was advanced by Edward the black Prince for his eminent Service done at the Battel of Poictiers in France . The Portrature and Coate Armour of Sr. William de la More Ancestor of ye. present Sr. Edw. More of More●hall and Banke●hall in Lancashire Baronet wch : sd. Sr. Will : was made Kt. Banneret by Edw ye. Black Prince at ye. Battle of Poictiers in France . The Rt. Honoura●le Sr. George Ca●teret of Nawnes in Bedford shire Kt. Baronet . Vice Chamberlaine of his Majestys Household and one of his Majestys most Honourable privy Councell &c a. the 45● Bart. by Creation . The honble . Sr H●rbotle Grimston of Gore ham bury in 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Baronet , Speaker of the honble . house of Comon 〈◊〉 ●irst Parliament vnder his Majesty King Ch●●●e●●he 2d and at present Master of the Roll● the 87 Bart. by Creation Sr. Edmund Bacon of Redgrave in Suffolk Primier Bart. of England : the first Bart. by Creation : Sr Francis Radcliffe of Dilston in Northumberland Bar t of which Family● there haue been six Earle● of S●●r●x & fiue of them were Kt● . of the Garter besides S ● Iohn Radclyffe Kt. of ye. Garter t●m̄ps K. Hon 6th . & ●● 〈◊〉 Rodclyffe al●oe Kt. of ye. Garter tem̄ps K. Rich. 3d. q. 18 Bart. by Creation : Sr. Richard Atkins of Much Haddam in the County of Hertford Knight and Baronet . The 4 S● . Bart. by creation . Sr. Francis Gerard of Harrow Hill in Middlesex and of Aston Clinton in the County of Buckingham Knight and Baronet . The 126. Bar ● . by creation Sr. Tho. Mauleverer of Allerton-Mauleverer in the West rideing of York shire Barnt . now maried to Katherine sole daughter & heyre of Sr. Miles Stapleton of Wihill in ye. Sd. rideing of Yorkshire Kt. deceased . The Barnt . by creation . Sr. Iohn Wittewronge of Rothamsted in the parish of Harpenden in the County of Hertford K ● . and Bart. descended from the Wittewronges in Flanders , whose Grandfather Iaques Wittewronge of Gaunt in the sd. province did thence transplant himselfe and family into this Kingdome Anno. 1564. The Bart. by creation . Sr. Tho : P●yton of Knowlton in the County of Kent Bart. descen●d from the Peyton's of Peyton Hall● Suffolk , who had by his first wife Margaret daughter and heyre of Sr. John Bernard of J●esham in Cambridg shire , much land and many children , from whom are descended the Peyton's of Suffolk , Cambride shire , Kent , and the Isle of Eley , his second wife was Margaret daughter and Coheyre of Sr. Hugh Francie s , by whome he had also much land and many Children and from whome are descended the Peyton's of Sr. Edmondsbury , Warwick shire , Worcester shire , and Glocester sh. the 61. Bar. by creation . Sr. Anthony Craven of Sparsholt in Berkshire Knight and Baronet . of the name and family of the Right Honourable William Earle of Craven & ct The 648. Bart. by creation . Sr. Henry Puckering alias Newton of the priory near the Borough of Warwick in Warwickshire Bart. now maried to Elizabeth daughter of Tho. Murrey Esq. ● secretary to King Charles the first wh●●●rince of Wal●● . The ●24 . Bart. by creat●●n . Sr. Phillip Mathei●s of Edmonton in Middx. Bart. Now Maried to Ann eldest doughter of Sr. Tho : Wolstonholme of Minsingden in ye. Sd. Parish of Edmonton Bart. the 6●4 Bart. by Creation Sr. Thomas Tempest of Stelle in the Bishoprick of Durham . Bart. the ●99 Bar t by Creation . Sr. John Molinevx of Teversa●● in ye. County of Nottingham Bart. the 3● Bart. by Creation ●r. William Walter of Sarsden in Oxfordshire Bart. ●●●ended from ye. antien●family of ye. Walters of Warwi●●●●●re whose late wife was ye. Lady Mary Tuston dau● 〈◊〉 ye. Rt● honble . Nicholas Earle of Thanet decea●e● ye. 352 Bart. by Creation : S● Iohn Osborn of Chick●ands in ye. County of Bedford Baronet : the 468 Bart. by Creation : Sr. Robert Vyner of ye. Citty of London K ● Baro ● . And Lord Major thereof Anno. Domini . 1675 ye. 658 Bart. by Creation . Sr. Thomas Wolstenholme of Minsingden in ye. Paris● of Edmunton in the County of Middlesex Baronet the 747 Bart. by Creation . Sr. Peter Gleane of Hardwick in ye. County of Norfolk Baronet ye. 770. Bart. by Creation . Sr. Robert Iason of Broadsomerford in Wiltshire Baronet now maried to Ann daughter of George Dacres of Cheston in the County of Hertford Esq. y● 672 Bart. by Creation . Sr. Thomas Wilbraham of Woodhey in ye. County of Chester . Baronett : now maried to Eliz● sole Daug●ter : & heyr of Edward Mitton of Weston vnd●● Lozzardin̄ ye. County of Stafford ● Esq : ye. ●4●8 Bart. by Creation : Sr. Thomas Myddelton of Chirk ● Castle in Denbighshir Bart. first Maried to Elizabeth daughter of Sr. Tho Wilbrāham of Woodh●● in Cheshire Bart. & now to Charlott Daughter of ye. R t honble . Orlando Bridgman Kt and Bart. deceased , Late Ld. Keeper of the great Seale of En●land : the 514 Bart. by Creation : 〈◊〉 ●●hn Bridg●man of Castle Bromwic● in Warwickshire Bar t , Eldest son of ye. Rt. honble . Sr. Orlando Bridg●●an : of great Lea●er in Lancashir Kt. & Bart. dece●●●● La●e ●● . Keeper . of ye. great seale of England : wth . 〈◊〉 S ● . ●ohn is now maried to Mary Daughter & Coheyr● of ●●●●g●●radock of Carswall Castle in Stafordshire Esq deceased : Th● 496 Bart. by Creation : ●r. Samuell Barnadiston of Brightwell Hall in Suffol● Bart. Third son to Sr. Nath : Barnadiston of Ketto●●●● 〈◊〉 the Sd. County : who was ye. 23d. Kt. Lineally descended of ye. family wth : still Enjoyes ye. Paternall Estate they had before ye. Conquest ye. Bart. by Creation : Sr. Thomas Dar●ey of St. Clerehall in St. oseth in ye. County of Essex Bart. : The 486 Bart. by Creation : Sr. Humfrey Forster of Aldermaston in Barkshire : Bart. , descended of a family of great antiquity Whose Ancestors haue been there seated for Aboue 300 yeares : the 129 Bart. by Creation : Sr. Iohn Robinson of ye. Citty of London Alderman : Kt. & Bart. & Leiutenant of his matys . Tower of London : The 494 Bart. by Creation : Sr. Ralph Verney of Middle Claydon in ye. County of Bucks Kt. & Bart. son to Sr. Edmund Verney Kt. Marshall to K. Charles ye. first and Standard bearer at ye. Battle of Edghill : The 619 Bart. by Creation : S ● . Iohn Hobart of Blicklin● in Norfolk Barot. heire male to Sr. Henry Hobart K ● . & Barot. Cheife Iustice of ye. Common please who descended from the 2d son of Sr. Iames Hobart of Hal●s in ●●d. County Attorney Generall to King H●nry ye. 〈…〉 Iohn is now maried to Mary daughter of Iohn Hampden of Hampden in Buckingham shire Esq. 〈◊〉 . ye● ●t● . Bart. by Creation . Sr. Iohn Corbett of Stoke upon Tean and Adderley in Shropshire Bart. first maried to Theophila daughter and Coheire of Iames Cambell in Essex Esq and now to ●rances daughter of Randolph Egerton of Betley in Staffordshire . Esq ● y● . 217 Bart. by Creation . Sr. Vincent Corbett of Moarton Corbett in Shropshire Bart. now maried to Elizabeth daughter of Francis Thornes of Shelvock in ye. sd. County ye. 37● Bart. by Creation . Sr. Thomas Williams of Elham Court in Co●● Kent Kt. and Baronet first and principall Chymical Ph●sitian to his maty King Ch● the 2d. the Bart. by Creation . Sr. Phillip Perci●●le of Burton in the County of Corke in Ireland Baronet descend●d from the Perciuals of North Weston near Bristoll in Somersetshire : the family ca●● in with William the Conquerer and were ●hefore of Vile near Caenē in Normandy . Sr. Iohn Lowther of Lowther hall in the County of Westmoreland Bart. Sr● Charl●s Whe●er of Burbury in the County of Warwick Baronet● anciently of Martin Hus●ingtre in the County of Worcester . the 544 by Creacion . ●r● Me●calfe Robinson of Newby in the North rideing of Yorkshire Bart. maried Margaret daughter of Sr. William Darc●● of Witton Castle in the Bishoprick of Durham Kt. the 536 Bart. by Creation Sr. Kingmill Lucy of N●tley in Huntshire Bar●● Second Branch of the Ancient Family of the Lucy● of Charle●o● in Warwickshire , now Maried to Theophila . 2d. daughter to the R ● . honble . G●●●ge Ld. Barkley of 〈…〉 Castle . the 99th . Bart. by Creati●● 〈◊〉 Thomas Hanmer of Hanmer & Bettes fi●l● in the County of Flint Bart. descended by many Knights from Sr. Iohn de Hanmer who lived in the tyme of King Edw the first the 139 Bart. by Creation . 〈◊〉 Henry Hunlock of Wingerworth in Derbyshire Bar ● . in the Escocheon of pretence is the Armes of Katherine his Lady who was sole daughter & he●r● of ●rancis Turwhit of Kettleby of Lincolnshire Esq ● last ●f y● Eldest branch of that great & antient family the 424 Bart. by Creation . Sr● William Glynne of Biss●●●er alias Byrcester in Oxfordshire & of Hawarden in flintshire . Baronet ●●iter maried wth . Penelope● daughter of Stephen Anderson of Evworth in Bedfordshire Esq the 64● Bart. by Creation . ●r● Richard Graham of Nether by in Cumberland Bart. 〈…〉 in the second son of the Earle of Monteith in the Kingdome of ●cotland , who about the tyme of K● Hen● y● 4th . of England maried y● Lady Anne Vere Daughter to the Earle of Oxford wch . Sd. Sr. Ric●●●● now maried to the Lady Anne 2d. daught●r to Charles ●arle of 〈◊〉 the 284 Bart. by Creation . Sr. IOHN ●ANKS of the Fryers in Aylesford ●● the County of Kent Bart. now maried Elizabeth● eldest daughter of Sr. Iohn Dethick of the Citty of London Kt. and Alderman deceas●d . ye. 671 Bart. by Creation . 〈◊〉 Iohn Shaw of Eltham in the County of Kent● 〈◊〉 & Bart. now maried to Bridget Viscount 〈◊〉 Kilmurrey daughter to Sr. William Dru●y of Bestroorp in Norfolk Bart. the 755 Bart. by Creation● Sr. RICHARD HEAD of the Citty of Rochester in the County of Kent Baronet the by Creation 〈◊〉 Edw● More of Morehall & Bank hall in Lancashi●●●a●t. Whos 's late wife was Dorothy one of the Daugh●●● & Coeheir●s to Sr. ●itt● Fenwick of Meldon in Northumberland Kt. and Bart● by ●eabell Daugh●●●● & sole heire of Sr. Arthur Grey Kt. Unc●● to ●●esent Will Ld. Grey of Warke● the 689 Bart. by Creation . S●● Iohn Holland of Quidenham in ye. County of Nor●●●●●ar t d●scend●d from the Hollands of ye. Antient 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Lancashir : Maried to Alathea daughter and C●heyce of Iohn Panton of Bru●●shop in Denbighshi●●●●que Re●ict of ye. Rt. Honerbl● . Witt● Ld. 〈◊〉 of the Vine in Hantshire : the 188 Bart. by Creation . ●r● Anthony Aucher of Byshopsbourn in 〈◊〉 ●t. & Bart. maried to one of ye. daughter o● Robert Hatton Kt. deceased : one of the Chamberlyns of his matys . Exchequ●r● the Bart. by Creation● Sr. Iohn Reresby of Thriberge in the West Rideing of Yorkshire Bart. Gouernor of Burlington in the said County the 387 Bart. by creation OF BARONETS . CHAP. XIX . THE lowest degree of Honour that is Hereditary is this of Baronets , which was instituted by King Iames in the ninth year of his Reign , Anno 1611. They are created by Patent under the Great Seal , a form of which I shall here set down , which are generally all of one form ; viz. to a Man and the Heirs Males of his Body lawfully begotten ; yet sometimes the Honour is otherwise entailed for want of Issue Male. And the Proeme or Argument of the said Patent being for the propagating a Plantation in the Province of Vlster in Ireland , to which the aid of these Knights was ordained , or for the maintenance of Thirty Souldiers each of them in Ireland for three years , after the rate of eight pence sterling per diem , which at first was payed into the Exchequer at a lump , upon the passing their Patents ; which with the Fees of Honour due to Officers , amounted to above One thousand pounds a Man. Their Titles are to descend as aforesaid ; and they have precedency before all Knights , except those of the Garter , Bannerets , and Privy Councellors : they are styled Baronets in all Writs , Commissions , &c. and the addition of Sir is attributed unto them , as the title of Lady is to their Wives . They are to take place according to the priority of the date of their Patents , and no Honour is to be created between Baronets and Barons . At the first instituting of this Order King Iames engaged that they 〈…〉 two hundred in number , and after the said number should be compleated , if any for want of an He●r Male should be extinct , there should never any more be created in their room , but that the title should diminish to the honour of them remaining . But afterwards a Commission was ordained to fill up the vacant places , who had instructions also enacted , by which the Commissioners were impowered to treat with others that desired to be admitted into the said Dignity , which is now allowed without limitation ; yet with this Proviso , that they be of good Reputation , and descended of a Grandfather at the least by the Father's side that bare Arms , and have also a certain yearly Revenue of One thousand pounds per Annum de claro . It is also ordained that they and their Descendants , viz. their eldest Sons , attaining the full Age of One and twenty years , may receive Knighthood ; and that they shall in a Canton , or in an Escocheon ( which they please ) bear the Arms of Vlster , viz. in a Field Argent , a sinister hand couped at the wrist , Gules . In the King's Army Royal they have place in the gross near the King's Standard , and are allowed some peculiar Solemnities for their Funerals . Since the first Creation of Baronets in England , there hath been several made after the like manner in Ireland ; as also the Knights of Nova Scotia in the West Indies by King Iames upon the like design , that is , for planting that Country by the Scotch Colonies , and the Deg●●es likewise made Hereditary . By the King. THE INSTRUCTIONS Within mentioned to be observed by Our COMMISSIONERS WITHIN NAMED . FOrasmuch as We have been pleased to authorize you to treat and conclude with a certain number of Knights and Esquires , as they shall present themselves unto you with such offers of assistance for the service of Ireland , and under such Conditions as are contained in these Presents , wherein We do repose great trust and confidence in your discretions and integrities , knowing well , that in such cases there are so many circumstances incident , as require a choice care and consideration : We do hereby require you to take such course as may make known abroad both Our purpose , and the authority given unto you , That by the more publick notice thereof , those persons who are disposed to advance so good a Work , may in time understand where and to whom to address themselves for the same ; For which purpose We require you to appoint some certain place and times for their Access : which We think fittest to be at the Council Chamber at Whitehall , upon Wednesdays and Fridays in the Afternoon , where you shall make known to them ( as they come ) that those who desire to be admitted into the Dignity of Baronets , must maintain the number of thirty foot Souldiers in Ireland , for three years , after the rate of eight pence sterling money of England by the day ; And the wages of one whole year to be paid into Our Receipt , upon the passing of the Patent . Provided always , that you proceed with none , except it shall appear unto you upon good proof , that they are men for quality , state of living , and good reputation , worthy of the same ; And that they are at the least descended of a Grandfather by the Father's side that bare Arms ; and have also of certain yearly revenue in Lands of inheritance in possession , One thousand pounds per Annum de claro ; or Lands of the old Rent , as good ( in accompt ) as One thousand pounds per Annum of improved Rents , or at the least two parts in three parts to be divided of Lands , to the said values in possession , and the other third part in reversion , expectant upon one life only , holding by Dower or in Ioynture . And for the Order to be observed in ranking those that shall receive the Dignity of a Baronet , although it is to be wished , that those Knights which have now place before other Knights ( in respect of the time of their Creation ) may be ranked before others ( Caeteris paribus ) yet because this is a Dignity which shall be Hereditary , wherein divers circumstances are more considerable , than such a Mark as is but Temporary ( that is to say of being now a Knight , in time before another ) Our pleasure is , you shall not be so precise , in placing those that shall receive this Dignity , but that an Esquire of great Antiquity and extraordinary Living , may be ranked in this choice before some Knights . And so ( of Knights ) a man of greater living , more remarkable for his house , years , or calling in the Common-wealth , may be now preferred in this Degree , before one that was made a Knight before him . Next , because there is nothing of Honour , or of Value , which is known to be sought or desired ( be the Motives never so good ) but may receive scandal from some , who ( wanting the same good affection to the Publick ) or being in other considerations incapable , can be contented out of envy to those that are so preferred , to cast aspersions and imputations upon them ; As if they came by this Dignity for any other consideration , but that which concerneth this so publick and memorable a work , you shall take order , That the party who shall receive this Dignity , may take his Oath , that neither he ( nor any for him ) hath directly or indirectly given any more for attaining the Degree , or any Precedency in it , than that which is necessary for the maintenance of the number of Souldiers , in such sort as aforesaid , saving the charges of passing his Patent . And because We are not Ignorant , that in the distribution of all Honours , most men will be desirous to attain to so high a place as they may , in the Iudgment whereof ( being matter of dignity ) there cannot be too great caution used to avoid the interruption that private partialities may breed in so worthy a Competition . Forasmnch as it is well known , that it can concern no other person so much to prevent all such Inconveniencies , as it must do our self , from whom all Honour and Dignity ( either Temporary or Hereditary ) hath his only root and beginning , You shall publish and declare to all whom it may concern , That for the better warrant of your own Actions , in this matter of Precedency ( wherein We find you so desirous to avoid all just Exceptions ) We are determined upon view of all those Patents , which shall be subscribed by you , before the same pass Our Great Seal , to take the especial care upon Vs , to order and rank every man in his due place ; And therein always to use the particular counsel and advice that you our Commissioners shall give Vs , of whose integrity and circumspection We have so good experience , and are so well perswaded , as We assure Our self , you will use all the best means you may to inform your own Iudgments in cases doubtful , before you deliver Vs any such opinion as may lead Vs in a case of this Nature , wherein our intention is ( by due consideration of all necessary circumstances ) to give every man that satisfaction which standeth with Honour and Reason . Lastly , having now directed you , how and with what caution you are to entertain the Offers of such as shall present themselves for this Dignity , We do also require you to observe these two things . The one , That every such person as shall be admitted , do enter into sufficient Bond or Recognizance to Our use , for the payment of that portion which shall be remaining after the first payment is made , which you are to see paid upon delivery of the Letters Patents : The other , That seeing this Contribution for so publick an Action is the motive of this Dignity , and that the greatest good which may be expected upon this Plantation , will depend upon the certain payment of those Forces which shall be fit to be maintained in that Kingdom , until the same be well established , the charge whereof will be born with the greater difficulty , if We be not eased by some such extraordinary means ; we require you Our Treasurer of England , so to order this Receipt , as no part thereof be mixed with Our other Treasure , but kept apart by it self , to be wholly converted to that use to which it is given and intended ; And in regard thereof , that you assign it to be received , and the Bonds to be kept by some such particular person as you shall think good to appoint , who upon the payment of every several portion , shall both deliver out the Bonds , and give his Acquittance for the same . For which this shall be yours and his the said Receiver's sufficient Warrant in that behalf . THE PRECEDENT OF THE PATENT OF Creation of Baronets . REX omnibus ad quos . &c. Salutem . Cum inter alias Imperii nostri gerendi curas , quibus animus noster assiduè exercetur , illa non minima sit , nec minimi momenti , de Plantatione Regni nostri Hiberniae , ac potissimum Vltoniae , amplae & percelebris ejusdem Regni Provinciae , quam nostris jam auspiciis atque armis , foeliciter sub obsequii jugum redactam , ita constabilire elaboramus , ut tanta Provincia , non solum sincero Religionis cultu , humanitate civili , morumque probitate , verum etiam opum affluentia , atque omnium rerum copia , quae statum Reipublicae ornare vel beare possit , magis magisque efflorescat . Opus sane , quod nulli progenitorum nostrorum praestare & perficere licuit , quamvis id ipsum multa sanguinis & opum profusione saepius tentaverint ; In quo opere , sollicitudo nostra Regia , non solum ad hoc excubare debet , ut Plantatio ipsa strenuè promoveatur , oppida condantur , aedes & castra extruantur , agri colantur , & id genus alia ; Sed etiam prospiciendum imprimis , ut iniversus hujusmodi rerum civilium apparatus , manu armata , praesidiis videlicet & cohortibus , protegatur & communiatur , ne qua aut vis hostilis , aut defectio intestina , rem disturbet aut impediat : Cumque nobis intimatum sit , ex parte quorundam ex fidelibus nostris subditis , quod ipsi paratissimi sint , ad hoc Regnum nostrum inceptum , tam corporibus , quam fortunis suis promovendum : Nos commoti operis tam sancti ac salutaris intuitu , atque gratos habentes hujusmodi generosos affectus , aque propensas in obsequium nostrum & bonum publicum voluntates , Statuimus apud nos ipsos nulli rei deesse , quae subditorum nostrorum studia praefata remunerare , aut aliorum animos atque alacritatem , ad operas suas praestandas , aut impensas in hac parte faciendas , excitare possit ; Itaque nobiscum perpendentes atque reputantes , virtutem & industriam , nulla alia re magis quam honore ali atque acui , omnemque honoris & dignitatis splendorem , & amplitudinem , à Rege tanquam à fonte , originem & incrementum ducere , ad cujus culmen & fastigium propriè spectat , novos honorum & dignitatum titulos erigere atque instituere , utpote à quo antiqui illi fluxerint ; consentaneum duximus ( postulante usu Reipublicae atque temporum ratione ) nova merita , novis dignitatum insignibus rependere : Ac propterea , ex certâ scientiâ & mero motu nostris , Ordinavimus , ereximus , constituimus , & creavimus , quendam statum , gradum , dignitatem , nomen & titulum Baronetti ( Anglicè of a Baronet ) infra hoc Regnum nostrum Angliae perpetuis temporibus duraturum . Sciatis modo , quod nos de gratia nostra speciali , ac ex certa scientia & mero motu nostris , ereximus , praefecimus & creavimus , ac per praesentes pro nobis , Haeredibus , & Successoribus nostris , erigimus , prae●icimus , & creamus dilectum nostrum de in comitatu virum , familia , patrimonio , censu , & morum probitate spectatum ( qui nobis auxilium & subsidium satis amplum , generoso & liberali animo dedit & praestit , ad manutenendum & supportandum triginta viros in cohortibus nostris pedestribus in dicto Regno nostro Hiberniae , per tres annos integros pro defensione dicti Regni nostri , & praecipue pro securitate plantationis dictae Provinciae Vltoniae ) ad , & in dignitatem , statum , & gradum Baronetti ( Anglicè of a Baronet ) Ipsumque Baronettum pro nobis , haeredibus , & successoribus nostris , prae●icimus , constituimus & creamus per praesentes , habendum sibi , & haeredibus masculis de corpore suo legitime procreatis imperpetuum . Volumus etiam & per praesentes de gratia nostra speciali , ac ex certa scientia & mero motu nostris , pro nobis , haeredibus , & successoribus nostris concedimus praefato & haeredibus masculis de corpore suo legitime procreatis , Quod ipse idem & haeredes sui masculi praedicti habeant , gaudeant , teneant , & capiant locum atque Praecedentiam , virtute dignitatis Baronetti praedicti , & vigore praesentium , tam in omnibus Commissionibus , brevibus , literis patentibus , scriptis , appellationibus , nominationibus , & directionibus , quam in omnibus Sessionibus , Conventibus , Caetibus & locis quibuscunque prae omnibus militibus , tam de Balneo ( Anglicè of the Bathe ) quam militibus Baccalaureis ( Anglicè Batchelors ) ac etiam prae omnibus militibus Bannerettis ( Anglicè Bannerets ) jam creatis , vel imposterum creandis ( Illis militibus Bannerettis tantummodo exceptis , quos sub vexillis regiis , in exercitu regali , in aperto bello , & ipso Rege personaliter praesente , explicatis , & non aliter creari contigerit . Quodque uxores dicti & Haeredum masculorum suorum praedictorum , virtute dictae dignitatis maritorum suorum praedictorum , habeant , teneant , gaudeant , & capiant locum & praecedentiam , prae uxoribus omnium aliorum quorumcunque prae quibus mariti hujusmodi uxorum , vigore praesentium habere debent locum & praecedentiam ; Atque quod primogenitus filius , ac caeteri omnes filii & eorum uxores , & filiae ejusdem & haeredum suorum praedictorum respectivè , habeant , & capiant locum & praecedentiam , ante primogenitos filios , ac alios filios & eorum uxores , & filias omnium quorumcunque respective , prae quibus patres hujusmodi filiorum progenitorum , & aliorum filiorum , & eorum uxores , & filiarum , vigore praesentium habere debent locum & praecedentiam . Volumus etiam , & per praesentes pro nobis , haeredibus , & successoribus nostris , de gratia nostra speciali , ac ex certa scientia , & mero motu nostris concedimus , quod dictus nominetur , appelletur , nuncupetur , placitet & implacitetur , per nomen Baronetti ; Et quod stylus & additio Baronetti apponatur in fine nominis ejusdem & haeredum masculorum suorum praedictorum , in omnibus Literis Patentibus , Commissionibus , & brevibus nostris , atque omnibus aliis Chartis , factis , atque literis , virtute praesentium , ut vera , legitima , & necessaria additio dignitatis . Volumus etiam , & per praesentes pro nobis , haeredibus , & successoribus nostris ordinamus , quod nomini dicti & haeredum masculorum suorum praedictorum , in sermone Anglicano , & omnibus scriptis Anglicanis , praeponatur haec additio , videlicet Anglicè ( Sir : ) Et similiter quod uxores ejusdem & haeredum masculorum suorum praedictorum , habeant , utantur , & gaudeant hac appellatione , videlicet Anglicè ( Lady , Madam , & Dame ) respective , secundum usum loquendi . Habendum , tenendum , utendum , & gaudendum , eadem , statum , gradum , dignitatem , stylum , titulum , nomen , locum , & praecedentiam , cum omnibus & singulis Privilegiis , & caeteris praemissis , praefat . & haeredibus masculis de corpore suo exeuntibus imperpetuum . Volentes & per Praesentes concedentes , pro nobis , haeredibus & successoribus nostris , quod praedictus & haeredes sui masculi praedicti , nomen , stat●m , gradum , stylum , dignitatem , titulum , locum , & praecedentiam praedictam , cum omnibus & singulis Privilegiis , & caeteris praemissis successive , gerant & habeant , & eorum quilibet gerat & habeat , quodque idem haeredes sui masculi praedicti successive Baronetti in omnibus teneantur , Et ut Baronetti tractentur & reputentur , Et eorum quilibet teneatur , tractetur et reputetur . Et ulterius de uberiori gratiâ nostrâ speciali , ac ex certa scientia et mero motu nostris Concessimus , ac per praesentes pro nobis haeredibus et successoribus nostris concedimus praefato & haeredibus suis masculis praedictis , quod numerus Baronettorum hujus Regni Angliae ●unquam posthac excedet in toto , in aliquo uno tempore , numerum ducentorum Baronettorum : et quod dicti Baronetti , et eorum haeredes masculi praedicti respectivè , de tempore in tempus in perpetuum , habebunt , tenebunt , et gaudebunt locos et praecedentias suas inter se , videlicet , quilibet eorum secundum prioritatem & senioritatem Creationis suae Baronetti praedicti ; quotquot autem creati sunt , vel creabuntur Baronetti per literas nostras Patentes , gerentes Datas uno & eodem die , & haeredes sui praedicti , gaudebunt locis & praecedentiis suis inter se secundum prioritatem , quae cuilibet eorum dabitur , per alias literas nostras patentes in ea parte primo conficiendas , sine impedimento , & non aliter , nec alio modo . Et insuper de abundantiori gratiâ nostrâ speciali , & ex certa scientia & mero motu nostris concessimus , ac per praesentes , pro nobis haeredibus & successoribus nostris concedimus praefato & haeredibus suis masculis praedictis , quod nec nos , nec haeredes vel successores nostri , de caetero in posterum erigemus , ordinabimus , constituemus , aut creabimus infrà hoc Regnum nostrum Angliae aliquem alium gradum , ordinem , nomen , titulum , dignitatem , sive statum sub vel infra gradum , dignitatem , sive statum Baronum , hujus Regni nostri Angliae , qui erit vel esse possit superior , vel aequalis gradui & dignitati Baronettorum praedictorum , sed quod tam dictus & haeredes sui masculi praedicti , quam uxores , filii , uxores filiorum & filiae ejusdem & haeredum masculorum suorum praedictorum , de caetero in perpetuum liberè & quietè habeant , teneant , & gaudeant , dignitates , locos & praecedentias suas praedictas prae omnibus , qui erunt de talibus gradibus , statibus , dignitatibus vel ordinibus in posterum , ut praefertur creandi respectivè secundum veram intentionem praesentium absque impedimento nostro , haeredum , vel successorum nostrorum , vel aliorum quorumcunque . Et ulterius per praesentes declaramus , & significamus beneplacitum & voluntatem nostram in hac parte fore & esse , Et sic nobiscum statuimus & decrevimus , quod si postquam nos praedict . numerum ducentorum Baronettorum hujus Regni Angliae compleverimus & perfecerimus , Contigerit aliquem , vel aliquos eorundem Baronettorum ab hac vitâ discedere , absque haerede masculo de corpore vel corporibus hujusmodi Baronetti vel Baronettorum procreato , quod tunc nos non creabimus , vel praeficiemus aliquam aliam personam , vel personas in Baronettum , vel Baronettos Regni nostri Angliae , sed quod numerus dictorum Ducentorum Baronettorum ea ratione de tempore in tempus diminuetur , & in minorem numerum cedet & redigetur ; Denique volumus , ac per praesentes pro nobis , haeredibus & successoribus nostris de gratia nostra speciali , ac ex certa scientia & mero motu nostris concedimus praefato & haeredibus suis masculis praedictis , quod hae Literae nostrae Patentes erunt in omnibus , & per omnia firmae , validae , bonae , sufficientes & effectuales in lege , tam contra nos , haeredes , & successores nostros , quam contra omnes alios quoscunque secundum veram intentionem earundem , tam in omnibus curiis nostris , quam alibi ubicunque Non obstante aliqua lege , consuetudine , praescriptione , usu , ordinatione , sive constitutione quacunque ante hac editâ , habitâ , usitatâ , ordinatâ , sive provisâ , vel in posterum edendâ , habendâ , usitandâ , ordinandâ , vel providendâ : Et non obstante aliqua alia re , causâ vel materiâ quacunque Volumus etiam , &c. Absque ●ine in Hanaperio , &c. Eo quod expressa mentio , &c. In cujus rei , &c. Teste , &c. A CATALOGUE OF THE Baronets of England ACCORDING To their Creations from the first Institution to the last ; with their Seats and Titles expressed in their Patents , Anno 9. Iacobi Regis , 1611. May 22. 1611. 1 SIR Nicholas Bacon of Redgrave in Suffolk , Kt. 2 Sir Richard Molineux of Sefton in Lancashire , Kt. now Irish Viscount . 3 Sir Thomas Mauncell of Mergan in Glamorganshire , Kt. 4 George Shirley of Staunton in Leicestershire Esq 5 Sir Iohn Stradling of St. Donates in Glamorganshire , Kt. 6 Sir Francis Leeke of Sutton in Derbyshire , Kt. now English Earl. 7 Thomas Pelham of Laughton in Sussex , Esq 8 Sir Richard Houghton of Houghton-Tower in Lancashire , Kt. 9 Sir Henry Hobart of Intwood in Norfolk , Kt. Attorney General to the King. 10 Sir George Booth of Dunham-Massey in Cheshire , Kt. now English Baron . 11 Sir Iohn Peyton of Isleham in Cambridgeshire , Kt. Extinct . 12 Lionel Talmache of Helmingham in Suffolk , Esq 13 Sir Gervase Clifton of Clifton in Nottinghamshire , Knight of the Bath . 14 Sir Thomas Gerard of Bryn in Lancashire , Kt. 15 Sir Walter Aston of Tixhall in Staffordshire Kt. of the Bath , since a Baron of Scotland . 16 Philip Nevet of Buckenham in Norfolk , Esq Extinct . 17 Sir Iohn St. Iohn of Lidiard-Tregoz in Wiltshire , Kt. 18 Iohn Shelley of Michelgrove in Sussex , Esq Iune 29. 1611. 9 Iacobi . 19 Sir Iohn Savage of Rock-Savage in Cheshire , now English Earl. 20 Sir Francis Barington of Barington-hall in Essex , Kt. 21 Henry Berkley of Wimundham in Leicestershire , Esq Extinct . 22 William Wentworth of Wentworth-wood-house in Yorkshire , English Earl. 23 Sir Richard Musgrave of Hartley-Castle in Westmoreland , Kt. 24 Edward Seymour of Bury-Pomeray in Devonshire , Esq 25 Sir Moyle Finch of Eastwell in Kent , Kt. now English Earl. 26 Sir Anthony Cope of Hanwell in Oxfordshire , Kt. 27 Sir Thomas Mounson of Carleton in Lincolnshire , Kt. 28 George Gresly of Drakedow in Derbyshire , Esq 29 Paul Tracy of Stanway in Glocestershire , Esq 30 Sir Iohn Wentworth of Coffield in Essex , Kt. 31 Sir Henry Bellasis of Newborough in Yorkshire , Kt. now Viscount Faulconberg in England . 32 William Constable of Flamborough in Yorkshire , Esq 33 Sir Thomas Leigh of Stoneley in Warwickshire , Kt. since English Baron . 34 Sir Edward Noel of Brook in Rutlandshire , Kt. now Viscount Cambden in England . 35 Sir Robert Cotton of Conington in Huntingtonshire , Kt. 36 Robert Cholmondleigh of Cholmondleigh in Cheshire , Esq since Earl of Lempster , Extinct . 37 Iohn Molineux of Taversal in Nottinghamshire , Esq 38 Sir Francis Wortley of Wortley in Yorkshire , Kt. 39 Sir George Savile Senior , Thornhill in Yorkshire , Kt. now Viscount Halifax in England . 40 William Kniveton of Mircaston in Derbyshire , Esq 41 Sir Philip Woodhouse of Wilberly-hall in Norfolk , Kt. 42 Sir William Pope of Wilcot in Oxfordshire , Kt. now Earl of Down in Ireland . 43 Sir Iames Harington of Ridlington in Rutlandshire , Kt. 44 Sir Henry Savile of Metheley in Yorkshire Kt. Extinct . 45 Henry Willoughby of Risley in Derbyshire , Esq Extinct . 46 Lewes Tresham of Rushton in Northamptonshire , Esq Extinct . 47 Thomas Brudenell of Dean in Northamptonshire , Esq now Earl of Cardigan in England . 48 Sir George St. Paul of Snarsford in Lincolnshire , Kt. Extinct . 49 Sir Philip Tirwhit of Stainfield in Lincolnshire , Kt. 50 Sir Roger Dalison of Loughton in Lincolnshire , Kt. Extinct . 51 Sir Edward Carre of Sleford in Lincolnshire , Kt. 52 Sir Edward Hussey of Henington in Lincolnshire , Kt. 53 L'Estrange Mordant of Massinghamparva in Norfolk , Esq 54 Thomas Bendish of Steeple-Bemsted in Essex , Esq 55 Sir Iohn Wynne of Gwidder in Carnarvanshire , Kt. 56 Sir William Throckmorton of Tortworth in Glocestershire , Kt. 57 Sir Richard Worsley of Apledercombe in Hantshire , Kt. 58 Sir Richard Fleetwood of Calwiche in Stafforshire , Kt. 59 Thomas Spencer of Yarnton in Oxfordshire , Esq 60 Sir Iohn Tufton of Hothfield in Kent , Kt. 61 Sir Samuel Peyton of Knowlton in Kent , Kt. 62 Sir Charles Morrison of Caishobury in Hartfordshire , Kt. Extinct . 63 Sir Henry Baker of Sissinghurst in Kent , Kt. 64 Roger Apleton of South-Bemsted in Essex , Esq 65 Sir William Sidley of Ailesford and Southfleet in Kent , Kt. 66 Sir William Twisden of Royden-hall in East-Peckham in Kent , Kt. 67 Sir Edward Hales of Woodchurch , and now of Tunstall in Kent , Kt. 68 William Monins of Waldersher in Kent , Esq 69 Thomas Mildway of Mulsham in Essex , Esq 70 Sir William Maynard of Eastanes , or Easton parva in Essex , Kt. now English Baron . 71 Henry Lee of Quarendon in Buckinghamshire , Esq now Earl of Litchfield in England . Anno 1612. Nov. 25. 72 Sir Iohn Portman of Orchard in Somersetshire , Kt. 73 Sir Nicholas Saunderson of Saxby in Lincolnshire , Kt. now Viscount Castleton in Ireland . 74 Sir Miles Sandys of Wimbleton in the Isle of Ely , Kt. 75 William Gostwick of Willington in Bedfordshire , Esq 76 Thomas Puckering of Weston in Hartfordshire , Esq Extinct . 77 Sir William Wray of Glentworth in Lincolnshire , Kt. 78 Sir William Aylofte of Braxsted magna in Essex , Kt. Nov. 25. 1612. 79 Sir Marmaduke Wivell of Constable-Burton in Yorkshire , Kt. 80 Iohn Penshall of Horsley in Staffordshire , Esq 81 Francis Englesfield of Wotton-Basset in Wiltshire , Esq 82 Sir Thomas Ridgeway of Torre in Devonshire , Kt. now Earl of Londonderry in Ireland . 83 William Essex of Bewcott in Berkshire , Esq 84 Sir Edward Gorges of Langford in Wiltshire , Kt. since a Baron of Ireland . 85 Edward Devereux of Castle-Bromwich in Warwickshire , Esq now Viscount Hereford in England . 86 Reginal Mohun of Buckonnock in Cornwal , Esq since an English Baron . 87 Sir Harbottle Grimston of Bradfield in Essex , Kt. 88 Sir. Thomas Holt of Aston juxta Burmingham in Warwickshire , Kt. Sept. 24. 1612. 89 Sir Robert Naper aliàs Sandy of Lewton-How in Bedfordshire , Kt. 90 Paul Banning of Bentley parva in Essex , since Viscount in England , Extinct . 91 Sir Richard Temple of Stow in Buckinghamshire , Kt. 92 Thomas Penystone of Leigh in Sussex , Esq 93 May 27. 1615. Thomas Blackstone of Blackstone in the Bishoprick of Durham , Esq 94 Iune 10. Sir Robert Dormer of Wing in Bucks , Kt. since Earl of Carnarvan . 95 April 5. 1617. Sir Rowland Egerton of Egerton in Cheshire , Kt. 96 April 16. Roger Townsend of Rainham in Norfolk , Esq now an English Baron . 97 May 1. Simon Clark of Salford in Warwickshire , Esq 98 Oct. 2. Edward Fitton of Houseworth in Cheshire , Esq Extinct . 99 March 11. Sir Richard Lucy of Broxburne in Hertfordshire , Kt. now enjoyed by Sir Kingsmill Lucy of Facombe in Hantshire . 100 May 25. 1618. Sir Matthew Boynton of Bramston in Yorkshire , Kt. 101 Iuly 25. Thomas Littleton of Frankley in Worcestershire , Esq 102 Dec. 24. Sir Francis Leigh of Newnham in Warwickshire , Kt. an English Earl , Extinct . 103 Feb. 25. Thomas Burdet of Bramcote in Warwickshire , Esq 104 March 1. George Morton of St. Andrews Milborn in Dorsetshire , Esq 105 May 31. 1619. Sir William Hervey of Kidbrook in Essex , Kt. since a Baron of England and Ireland , now Extinct . 106 Iune 4. Thomas Mackworth of Normanton in Rutlandshire , Esq 107 15. William Grey of Chillingham in Northumberland , Esq now Baron Warke in England . 108 Iuly 19. William Villiers of Brooksby in Leicestershire , Esq 109 Iuly 20. Sir Iames Ley of Westbury in Wiltshire , Kt. since Earl of Marlborough in England . 110 21. William Hicks of Beverston in Glocestershire , Esq 111 Sept. 17. Sir Thomas Beaumont of Coleorton in Leicestershire , Kt. since a Viscout of Ireland . 112 Nov. 10. Henry Salisbury of Leweney in Denbeighshire , Esq 113 16. Erasmus Driden of Canons-Ashby in Northamptonshire , Esq 114 28. William Armine of Osgodby in Lincolnshire , Esq 115 Dec. 1. Sir William Bambury of Howton in Yorkshire , Kt. Extinct . 116 3. Edward Hartop of Freathby in Leicestershire , Esq. 117 31. Iohn Mill of Canons-Court in Sussex , Esq 118 Ian. 31. Francis Ratcliff of Darent-water in Cumberland , Esq 119 Feb. 6. Sir David Foulis of Ingleby-mannour in Yorkshire , Kt. 120 16. Thomas Phillips of Barington in Somersetshire , Esq 121 Mar. 7. Sir Claudius Forster of Bramburgh-Castle in Northumberland , Kt. 122 23. Anthony Chester of Chickley in Buckinghamshire , Esq 123 28. 1620. Sir Samuel Tryon of Laire-Marney in Essex , Kt. 124 April 2. Adam Newton of Charlton in Kent , Esq 125 12. Sir Iohn Boteler of Hatfield-Woodhall in Hartfordshire , Kt. since a Baron of England . 126 13. Gilbert Gerrard of Harrow-hill in Middlesex , Esq 127 May 3. Humphrey Lee of Langley in Shropshire , Esq 128 5. Richard Berney of Park-hall in Redham in Norfolk , Esq 129 20. Humphrey Forster of Aldermaston in Berkshire , Esq 130 29. Thomas Bigs of Lenchwick in Worcestershire , Esq Extinct . 131 30. Henry Bellingham of Helsington in Westmoreland , Esq Extinct . 132 31. William Yelverton of Rougham in Norfolk , Esq 133 Iune 1. Iune Scudamore of Holm-Lacy in Herefordshire , Esq now an Irish Viscount . 134 2. Sir Thomas Gore of Stitnam in Yorkshire , Kt. 135 22. Iohn Packington of Alisbury in Buckinghamshire , Esq 136 28. Ralph Ashton of Lever in Lancashire , Esq 137 Iuly 1. Sir Baptist Hicks of Camden in Glocestershire , Kt. now Viscount Camden in England . 138 Iuly 3. Sir Thomas Roberts of Glassenbury in Kent , Kt. 139 8. Iohn Hanmer of Hanmer in Flintshire , Esq 140 8. Edward Fryer of Water-Eaton in Oxfordshire , Esq Extinct . 141 13. Edward Osborn of Keeton in Yorkshire , now Earl of Danby in England . 142 20. Henry Felton of Playford in Suffolk , Esq 143 20. William Challoner of Gisborow in Yorkshire , Esq 144 24. Sir Thomas Bishop of Parham in Sussex , Kt. 145 26. Sir Francis Vincent of Stoke d' Abernon in Surrey , Kt. 146 Feb. 27. Henry Clere of Ormsby in Norfolk , Esq 147 March 8. Sir Benjamin Titchborne of Titchborne in Hantshire , Kt. 148 May 5. 1621. Sir Richard Wilbraham of VVoodhey in Cheshire , Kt. 149 8. Sir Thomas Delves of Duddington in Cheshire , Kt. 150 Iune 23. Sir Lewes VVatson of Rockingham-Castle in Northamptonshire Kt. since an English Baron . 151 29. Sir Thomas Palmer of VVingham in Kent , Kt. 152 Iuly 3. Sir Richard Roberts of Truro in Cornwall , Kt. now Baron Truro . 153 19. Iohn Rivers of Chafford in Kent , Esq 154 Sept. 6. Thomas Darnell of Heyling in Lincolnshire , Esq 155 14. Sir Isaac Sidley of Great Chart in Kent , Kt. 156 21. Robert Brown of VValcot in Northamptonshire , Esq 157 Oct. 11. Iohn Hewit of Headley-hall in Yorkshire , Esq 158 16. Henry Iernegan of Cossey in Norfolk , Esq 159 Nov. 8. Sir Nicholas Hide of Albury in Hertfordshire , Kt. Extinct . 160 9. Iohn Phillips of Picton in Pembrokeshire , Esq 161 24. Sir Iohn Stepney of Prendergast in Pembrokeshire , Kt. 162 Dec. 5. Baldwin VVake of Clevedon in Somersetshire , Esq 163 20. VVilliam Masham of High-Laver in Essex , Esq 164 21. Iohn Colebrond of Bocham in Sussex , Esq 165 Ian. 4. Sir Iohn Hotham of Scarborough in Yorkshire , Kt. 166 14. Francis Mansell of Mudlescomb in Carmarthenshire , Esq 167 18. Edward Powel of Penkelley in Herefordshire , Esq Extinct . 168 Feb. 16. Sir Iohn Gerrard or Garrard of Lamer in Hartfordshire , Kt. 169 23. Sir Richard Grosvenour of Eaton in Cheshire , Kt. 170 Mar. 11. Sir Henry Moody of Garesdon in VViltshire , Kt. Extinct . 171 17. Iohn Barker of Grimston-hall in Trimley in Suffolk , Esq 172 18. Sir VVilliam Button of Alton in Wiltshire , Kt. 173 26. 1622. Iohn Gage of Ferle in Sussex , Esq 174 May 14. VVilliam Gore●●g of Burton in Sussex , Esq 175 18. Peter Courteen of Aldington in VVorcestershire , Esq Extinct . 176 23. Sir Richard Norton of Rotherfield in Hantshire , Kt. 177 30. Sir Iohn Laventhorp of Shingle-hall in Hertfordshire , Kt. 178 Iune 3. Capell Bedell of Hamerton in Huntingtonshire , Esq Extinct . 179 13. Iohn Darell of VVestwoodhey in Berkshire , Esq 180 15. VVilliam VVilliams of Veynol in Carnarvanshire , Esq 181 18. Sir Francis Ashby of Hatfield in Middlesex , Kt. 182 Iuly 3. Sir Anthony Ashley of St. Giles-VVinborne in Dorsetshire , Kt. Extinct . 183 4. Iohn Cooper of Rochbourn in Hantshire , Esq now Earl of Shaftsbury in England . 184 17. Edmund Prideaux of Netherton in Devonshire , Esq 185 21. Sir Thomas Haselrigg of Nousley in Leicestershire , Kt. 186 22. Sir Thomas Burton of Stockerston in Leicestershire , Kt. 187 24. Francis Foliamb of VValton in Derbyshire , Esq Extinct . 188 30. Edward Yate of Buckland in Berkshire , Esq 189 Aug. 1. George Chudleigh of Ashton in Devonshire , Esq 190 2. Francis Drake of Buckland in Devonshire , Esq 191 13. VVilliam Meredith of Stansly in Deubighshire , Esq 192 Oct. 22. Hugh Middleton of Ruthin in Deubighshire , Esq 193 Nov. 12. Gifford Thornhurst of Agne-Court in Kent , Esq 194 16. Percy Herbert of● Redcastle in Montgomeryshire , Esq 195 Dec. 7. Sir Robert Fisher of Packington in VVarwickshire , Kt. 196 18. Hardolph VVastneys of Headon in Nottinghamshire , Esq 197 20. Sir Henry Skipwith of Prestwould in Lincolnshire , Kt. 198 22. Thomas Harris or Herris of Boreatton in Shropshire , Esq 199 23. Nicholas Tempest of Stella in the Bishoprick of Durham , Esq 200 Feb. 16. Francis Cottington of Hanworth in Middlesex , Esq since an English Baron , and now Extinct . 201 April 12. 1623. Thomas Harris of Tong-Castle in Shropshire , Esq Extinct . 202 Iune 28. Edward Barkham of South-acre in Norfolk , Esq 203 Iuly 4. Iohn Corbet of Sprouston in Norfolk , Esq 204 Aug. 13. Sir Thomas Playters of Sotterley in Suffolk , Kt. Baronets according to their Creations by King Charles the First . 205 Iuly 27. 1626. Sir Iohn Ashfield of Netherhall in Suffolk , Kt. 206 Sept. 8. Henry Harpur of Calke in Derbyshire , Esq 207 Dec. 20. Edward Seabright of Besford in Worcestershire , Esq 208 Ian. 29. Iohn Beaumont of Grace-dieu in Leicestershire , Esq Extinct . 209 Feb. 1. Sir Edward Dering of Surrenden-Dering in Kent , Kt. 210 5. George Kempe of Pentlone in Essex , Esq 211 Mar. 10. William Brereton of Hanford in Cheshire , Esq 212 12. Patricius Curwen of Workinton in Cumberland , Esq Extinct . 213 William Russel of Witley in Worcestershire , Esq 214 14. Iohn Spencer of Offley in Hartfordshire , Esq 215 17. Sir Giles Estcourt of Newton in Wiltshire , Kt. 216 Apr. 19. 1627. Thomas Aylesbury Esq one of the Masters of Requests , Extinct . 217 21. Thomas Style of Waterinbury in Kent , Esq 218 May 4. Frederick Cornwallis of in Suffolk , Esq 219 7. Drue Drury of 〈◊〉 in Norfolk , Esq 220 8. William Skeffington of Fisherwick in Staffordshire , Esq 221 11. Sir Robert Crane of Chilton in Suffolk , Kt. Extinct . 222 17. Anthony Wingfield of Goodwins in Suffolk , Esq 223 17. William Culpeper of Preston-hall in Kent , Esq 224 Giles Bridges of Wilton in Herefordshire , Esq 225 Iohn Kirle of Much-marcle in Herefordshire , Esq 226 20. Sir Humphrey Stiles of Beckham in Kent , Kt. Extinct . 227 21. Henry Moor of Falley in Berkshire , Esq 228 28. Thomas Heale of Fleet in Devonshire , Esq 229 Iohn Carleton of Holcombe in Oxfordshire , Esq Extinct . 230 30. Thomas Maples of Stow in Huntingtonshire , Esq Extinct . 231 May 30. 1627. Sir Iohn Isham of Lamport in Northamptonshire , Kt. 232 Henry Bagot of Blithfield in Staffordshire , Esq 233 31. Lewes Pollard of Kings-Nimph in Devonshire , Esq 234 Iune 1. Francis Mannock of Giffords-hall in Stoke in Suffolk , Esq 235 7. Henry Griffith of Agnes-Burton in Yorkshire , Esq Extinct . 236 8. Lodowick Dyer of Staughton in Huntingtonshire , Esq 237 9. Sir Hugh Stukeley of Hinton in Hantshire , Kt. 238 26. Edward Stanley of Bickerstaff in Lancashire , Esq 239 28. Edward Littleton of Pillaton-hall in Staffordshire , Esq 240 Iuly 7. Ambrose Brown of Betsworth-Castle in Surrey , Esq 241 8. Sackvile Crow of Llanherne in Caermarthenshire , Esq 242 11. Michael Livesey of East-church in the Isle of Sheppy in Kent , Esq Extinct . 243 17. Simon Bennet of Benhampton in Bucks , Esq 244 19. Sir Thomas Fisher of St. Giles's in the Fields in Middlesex , Kt. 245 23. Thomas Bowyer of Legthorn in Sussex , Esq 246 29. Buts Bacon of Milden-hall in Suffolk , Esq 247 Sept. 19. Iohn Corbet of Stoke in Shropshire , Esq 248 Oct. 31. Sir Edward Tirrill of Thornton in Bucks , Kt. 249 Feb. 18. Basil Dixwell of Tirlingham in Kent , Esq 250 March 10. Sir Richard Toung , Kt. Extinct . 251 May 6. 1628. William Pennyman Junior of Mask in Yorkshire , Esq Extinct . 252 7. William Stonehouse of Radley in Berkshire , Esq 253 21. Sir Thomas Fowler of Islington in Middlesex , Kt. 254 Iune 9. Sir Iohn Fenwick of Fenwick in Northumberland , Kt. 255 30. Sir William Wray of Trebitch in Cornwall , Kt. 256 Iuly 1. Iohn Trelawney of Trelawney in Cornwall , Esq 257 14. Iohn Conyers of Horden in the Bishoprick of Durham , Gent. 258 Iuly 24. Iohn Bolles of Scampton in Lincolnshire , Esq 259 25. Thomas Aston of Aston in Cheshire , Esq 260 30. Kenelme Ienoure of Much-Dunmore in Essex , Esq 261 Aug. 15. Sir Iohn Price of Newtown in Montgomeryshire , Kt. 262 19. Sir Richard Beaumont of Whitley in Yorkshire , Kt. 263 29. William Wiseman of Canfield-hall in Essex , Esq 264 Sept. 1. Thomas Nightingale of Newport-pond in Essex , Esq 265 2. Iohn Iaques of Esq Extinct . 266 6. Robert Dillington of in the Isle of Wight , Esq 267 12. Francis Pile of Compton in Berkshire , Esq 268 Iohn Pole of Shur in Devonshire , Esq 269 14. William Lewes of Langors in Brecknockshire , Esq 270 20. William Culpeper of Wakehurst in Sussex , Esq 271 Oct. 3. Peter Vanloor of Tylehurst in Berkshire , Esq Extinct . 272 9. Sir Iohn Laurence of Iver in Bucks , Kt. 273 23. Anthony Slingesby of Screvin in Yorkshire , Esq 274 24. Thomas Vavasour of Haselwood in Yorkshire , Esq 275 Nov. 24. Robert Wolseley of Wolseley in Staffordshire , Esq 276 Dec. 8. Rice Rudd of Aberghaney in Caermarthenshire , Esq 277 18. Richard Wiseman of Thundersley in Essex , Esq 278 19. Henry Ferrers of Skellingthorp in Lincolnshire , Esq 279 Ian. 3. Iohn Anderson of St. Ives in Huntingtonshire , Esq 280 19. Sir William Russel of Chippenham in Cambridgeshire , Kt. 281 29. Richard Everard of Much-waltham in Essex , Esq 282 Thomas Powell of Berkinhead in Cheshire , Esq 283 March 3. William Luckin of Waltham in Essex , Esq 284 29. 1629. Richard Graham of Eske in Cumberland , Esq 285 April 2. George Twisleton of Barly in Yorkshire , Esq 286 May 30. William Acton of the City of London , Esq 287 Iune 1. Nicholas L'Estrange of Hunstanton in Norfolk , Esq 288 15. Iohn Holland of Quiddenham in Norfolk , Esq 289 24. Edward Alleyn of Hatfield in Essex , Esq 290 Iuly 2. Richard Earle of Craglethorpe in Lincolnshire , Esq 291 Nov. 28. Robert Ducy of the City of London , Alderman . 292 April 9. 1630. Sir Richard Greenvile of Kilkhampton in Cornwall , Kt. 293 Iune 22. 1631. Charles Vavasour of Killingthorp in Lincolnshire , Esq 294. Feb. 19. 1638. Sir Edward Tirril of Thornley in Bucks , Kt. 295 Iuly 20. 1640. Edward Mosely of Rowlstone in Staffordshire , Esq 296 Ian. 8. Martin Lumley of Bardfield in Essex , Esq 297 Feb. 15. William Dalston of Dalston in Cumberland , Esq 298 19. Henry Fletcher of Hutton in the Forest in Cumberland , Esq 299 March 4. Nicholas Cole of Brancepeth in the Bishoprick of Durham , Esq 300 April 23. 1641. Edmund Pye of Leekhamsted in Bucks , Esq 301 May 26. Simon Every of Egginton in Derbyshire , Esq 302 29. William Langley of Higham-Gobion in Bedfordshire , Esq 303 Iune 8. William Paston of Oxnead in Norfolk , Esq now Viscount Yarmouth in England . 304 11. Iames Stonehouse of Amerden-hall in Essex , Esq 305 24. Iohn Palgrave of Norwood-Barningham in Norfolk , Esq 306 25. Gerard Nappier of Middle-Merthall in Dorsetshire , Esq 307 28. Thomas Whitmore of Apley in Shropshire , Esq 308 29. Iohn ●●ney of Linton in Kent , Esq 309 30. Sir Thomas Cave Junior of Stanford in Northamptonshire , Kt. 310 Sir Christopher Yelverton of Easton Mauduit in Northamptonshire , Kt. 311 Iuly 3. William Boteler of Teston in Kent , Esq 312 5. Sir Thomas Hatton of Long-Stanton in Cambridgshire , Kt. 313 7. Thomas Abdy of Flex-hall in Essex , Esq 314 14. Thomas Bampfield of Poltmore in Devonshire , Esq 315 Sir Iohn Cotton of Landwade in Cambridgshire , Kt. 316 15. Sir Simon D'Ewes of Stow-hall in Suffolk , Kt. 317 Henry Frederick Thinn of Cause-Castle in Shropshire , Esq 318 Iohn Burgoyne of Sutton in Bedfordshire , Esq 319 16. Iohn Northcote of Haine in Devonshire , Esq 320 17. Sir William Drake of Sherdelow in Bucks , Kt. 321 23. Thomas Rous of Rouse-Lench in Worcestershire , Esq. 322 Ralph Hare of Stow-Bardolph in Norfolk , Esq. 323 Iuly 24. 1641. Sir Iohn Norwich of Brampton in Northamptonshire , Kt. 324 26. Iohn Brownlow of Belton near Grantham in Lincolnshire , Esq. 325 27. William Brownlow of Humby in Lincolnshire , Esq. 326 28. Iohn Sidenham of Brimpton in Somersetshire , Esq. 327 Henry Prat of Coleshall in Berkshire , Esq 328 Francis Nichols of Hardwick in Northamptonshire , Esq. 329 30. Sir William Strickland of Boynton in Yorkshire , Kt. 330. Aug. 4. Sir Thomas Wolriche of Dadmaston in Shropshire , Kt. 331 Thomas Mauleverer of Allerton-Mauleverer in Yorkshire , Esq. 332 William Boughton of Lawford in Warwickshire , Esq. 333 Iohn Chichester of Raleigh in Devonshire , Esq. 334 Norton Knatchbull of Mersham-Hatch in Kent , Esq. 335 Hugh Windham of Pilsden-Court in Dorsetshire , Esq. Extinct . 336 9. Richard Carew of Antony in Cornwall , Esq. 337 William Castleton of St. Edmondsbury in Suffolk , Esq. 338 Richard Price of Gogarthan in Cardiganshire , Esq. 339 10. Hugh Cholmondley of Whitby in Yorkshire , Esq. 340 11. William Springe of Pakenham in Suffolk , Esq. 341 Thomas Trevor of Enfield in Middlesex , Esq. 342 Sir Iohn Curson of Kedleston in Derbyshire , a Baronet of Scotland . 343 Hugh Owen of Orrelton in Pembrokeshire , Esq. 344 12. Morton Briggs of Haughton in Shropshire , Esq. 345 Henry Heyman of Somerfield in Kent , Esq. 346 Thomas Sandford of Howgill-Castle in Westmoreland , Esq. 347 14. Sir Francis Rhodes of Barlbrough in Derbyshire , Kt. 348 Richard Sprignell of Coppenthorpe in Yorkshire , Esq. 349 Sir Iohn Potts of Mannington in Norfolk , Kt. 350 Aug. 14. 1641. Sir Iohn Goodrick of Ribstan in Yorkshire , Kt. 351 16. Robert Bindlosse of Borwick in Lancashire , Esq. 352 William Walter of Saresden in Oxfordshire , Esq. 353 Thomas Lawley of Spoonhill in Shropshire , Esq. 354 Sept. 6. William Farmer of Eston-Neston in Northamptonshire , Esq. 355 9. Iohn Davye of Creedy in Devonshire , Esq. 356 23. Thomas Pettus of Rackheath in Norfolk , Esq. 357 Dec. 11. William Andrews of Denton in Northamptonshire , Esq. 358 Iohn Meaux of 〈…〉 in the Isle of Wight , Esq● 359 14. Sir Richard Gurney Kt. Lord Mayor of the City of London . 360 15. Thomas Willis of Fen-Ditton in Cambridgshire , Esq. 361 Francis Armitage of Kirklees in Yorkshire , Esq. 362 18. Richard Halford of Wistow in Leicestershire , Esq. 363 24. Sir Humphrey Tufton of the Mote near Maidstone in Kent , Kt. 364 30. Edward Coke of Langford in Derb●shire , Esq. 365 Ian. 21. Isaac Astley of Melton-Constable in Norfolk , Esq. 366 Sir David Cunningham of London , a Baronet of Scotland . 367 22. Sir Iohn Rayney of Wrotham in Kent , a Baronet of Scotland . 368 29. Revet Eldred of Saxham Magna in Suffolk , Esq. 369 Iohn Gell of Hopton in Derbyshire , Esq. 370 Sir Vincent Corbet of Morton-Corbet in Shropshire , Kt. 371 Feb. 4. Sir Iohn Kay of Woodsome in Yorkshire , Kt. 372 5. Thomas Trollop of Casewick in Lincolnshire , Esq. 373 Mar. 3. Edward Thomas of Michells-Town in Glamorganshire , Esq. 374 4. Sir William Cowper of Ratling-Court in Kent , a Baronet of Scotland 375 5. Denner Strut of Little-Worley-Hall in Essex , Esq. 376 8. William St. Quintin of Harpham in Yorkshire , Esq. 377 14. Sir Robert Kempe of Gissing in Norfolk , Esq. 378 16. Iohn Read of Brocket-hall in Hartfordshire , Esq. 379 Apr. 9. 1642. Iames Enyan of Flowre in Northamptonshire , Esq. 380 19. Sir Edmond Williams of Marnehull in Dorsetshire , Kt. 381 22. Iohn Williams of Minster in the Isle of Thanet in Kent , Esq. 382 29. George Wintour of Huddington in Worcestershire , Esq. 383 May 4. Iohn Borlase of Bockmer in Bucks , Esq. 384 6. Henry Knollys of Grove-place in Hantshire , Esq. Extinct . 385 11. Iohn Hamilton of the City of London , Esq 386 12. Edward Morgan of Llanternam in Monmouthshire , Esq. 387 13. Sir Nicholas Kemeys of Keven-Mabley in Glamorganshire , Kt. 388 14. Trevor Williams of Llangibbye in Monmoutshire , Esq 389 16. Iohn Reresby of Thribergh in Yorkshire , Esq 390 17. William Ingilby of Ripley in Yorkshire , Esq 391 18. Poynings Moore of Loseley in Surrey , Esq 392 19. Christopher Dawney of Cowick in Yorkshire , Esq 393 Iune 3. Thomas Hampson of Taplow in Bucks , Esq 394 Thomas Williamson of East-Markham in Kent , Esq 395 William Denney of Gillingham in Norfolk , Esq 396 11. Christopher Lowther of Whitehaven in Cumberland , Esq 397 13. Sir Thomas Alston of Odell in Bedfordshire , Kt. 398 20. Edward Corbet of Leighton in Montgomeryshire , Esq 399 21. George Middleton of Leighton in Lancashire , Esq 400 28. Edward Payler of Thoralby in Yorkshire , Esq. 401 Iuly 9. Sir William Widdrington of Widdrington in Northumberland , Kt. 402 20. Matthew Valckenburgh of Middle-Ing in Yorkshire , Esq. 403 Philip Constable of Everingham in Yorkshire , Esq. 404 30. 1642. Ralph Blackston of Gibside in the Bishoprick of Durham , Esq. 405 Aug. 8. Sir Edw. Widdrington of Cartington in Northumberland , a Scotch Baronet . 406 15. Robert Markham of Sedgbrook in Lincolnshire , Esq. 407 Philip Hutgate of Saxton in Yorkshire , Esq. 408 Stephen Lennard of West-wickham in Kent , Esq. 409 24. Sir William Thorold of Marston in Lincolnshire , Kt. 410 29. Walter Rudston of Hayton in Yorkshire , Esq. 411 30. Walter Wrotesley of Wrotesley in Staffordshire , Esq. 412 Thomas Bland of Kippax-Park in Yorkshire , Esq. 413 Sept. 1. Robert Throckmorto● of Coughton in Warwickshire , Esq. 414 10. William Halton of Samford in Essex , Esq. 415 26. Brocket Spencer of Offley in Hertfordshire , Esq. 416 27. Edward Golding of Colston-Basset in Nottinghamshire , Esq. 417 William Smith of Crantock in Cornwall , Esq. 418 Octob. 1. Henry Henn of Wingfield in Berkshire , Esq. 419 5. Walter Blount of Sodington in Worcestershire , Esq. 420 14. Adam Littleton of Stoke-Milburge in Shropshire , Esq. 421 Nov. 2. Thomas Lidell of Ravensholme-Castle in the Bishoprick of Durham , Esq. 422 9. Richard Lawday of Exeter in Devonshire , Esq. Extinct . 423 Feb. 4. Thomas Chamberlaine of Wickham in Oxfordshire , Esq. 424 28. Henry Hunloke of Wingarworth in Derbyshire , Esq. 425 Thomas Badd of Cames-Oysells in Hantshire , Esq. 426 Mar. 20. Richard Crane of Wood-Rising in Norfolk , Esq. Extinct . 427 21. Samuel Danvers of Culworth in Northamptonshire , Esq. 428 Iuly 3. 1643. Henry Anderson of Penley in Hartfordshire , Esq. 429 17. William Vavasour of in Yorkshire , Esq. Extinct . 430 25. Sir Henry Iones of Abermarles in Caernarvanshire , Kt. 431 Aug. 1. 1643. Sir Edward Walgrave of Hever-Castle in Kent , Kt. 432 Octob. 28. Iohn Pate of Sysonby in Leicestershire , Esq. 433 Nov. 9. Iohn Bale of Carleton-Curley in Leicestershire , Esq. 434 13. Brian Oneal in the Kingdom of Ireland , Esq. 435 16. Willoughby Hickman of Gaynesborough in Lincolnshire , Esq. 436 Dec. 7. Iohn Butler of Bramfield in Hertfordshire , Esq. 437 Ian. 17. Edward Acton of Aldenham in Shropshire , Esq. 438 Mar. 14. Sir Fran. Hawley of Buckland in Somersetshire , Kt. now Irish Baron . 439 Apr. 1. 1644. Iohn Preston of the Mannour in Furness in Lancashire , Esq. 440 2. Iohn Webb of Odstoke in Wiltshire , Esq. 441 25. Thomas Prestwick of Holme in Lancashire , Esq. 442 May 4. Henry Williams of Guernevet in Brecknockshire , Esq. 443 20. Gervase Lucas of Fenton in Lincolnshire , E●q . 444 Iune 14. Robert Thorold of Hawley in Lincolnshire , Esq. 445 Iuly 23. Iohn Scud●more of Balingham in Herefordshire , Esq. 446 Octob. 8. Sir Henry Bard of St●nes in Middlesex , Kt. 447 Feb. 12. Sir Richard Vivian of Trelowren in Cornwall , Kt. 448 28. VVilliam Van-Colster of Amsterdam in Holland , Esq 449 Mar. 21. VVilliam de Boreel of Amsterdam aforesaid , Esq 450 May 4. 1645. Edward Greaves of St. Leonards-Forest in Sussex , Esq 451 9. George Carteret of Metesches in the Isle of Iersey , Esq 452 Nov. 25. Thomas Windebanke of Haynes in Wiltshire , Esq 453 Feb. 7. Benjamin Wright of Dennington in Suffolk , Esq whose Patent was Superseded . 454 March 6. Edward Charleton of Hesleyside in Northumberland . 455 Iuly 11. Richard Willis , Esq Brother to Sir Thomas Willis of Fen-Ditton in Cambridgshire . Baronets created by King Charles the Second . 456. Sept. 1. 1649. Richard Brown of Deptford in Kent , Esq created by Letters Patents dated at St. Germans ● in France . 457 3. Henry de Vic of the Isle of Garnsey , Esq created by Letters Patents at St. Germans aforesaid . 458 Sept. 18. Richard Forster of Stokesley in Yorkshire , Esq by Letters Patents dated at St. Germans . 459 Sept. 2. 1650. Richard Fanshaw Esq afterwards Master of Requests to his Majesty . 460 April 2. 1652. William Curtius , Esq 461 Oct. 19. 1657. Sir Arthur Slingsby of 〈…〉 in Kent . 462 〈◊〉 1658. Thomas Orby of 〈…〉 in Lincolnshire , Esq 463 Thomas Bond of 〈◊〉 in 〈◊〉 Esq 464 Aug. Arthur Marigny Carpentier , Esq 465 1660. Sir Anthony de Merces , Extinct . 466 May 29. Sir Iohn Evelyn of 〈◊〉 in 〈◊〉 Kt. 467 30. Sir Gualter de Read. 468 Feb. 11. Iohn Osborn of Chicksands in Bedfordshire , Esq 469 Iune 7. Sir Orlando Bridgman of Great Leaver in Lancashire , Kt. late Lord Keeper of the Great Seal of England . 470 Sir Ieffrey Palmer of Carleton in Northamptonshire , Kt. his Majesties Attorney General . 471 Sir Heneage Finch of Raunston in Bucks , Kt. now Lord Daventry , and Lord Chancellor of the Great Seal of England . 472 Sir Iohn Langham of Catsbrook in Northamptonshire , Kt. 473 9. Humphrey Winch of Hanmes in Bedfordshire , Esq 474 Sir Robert Abdy of Albins in Essex , Kt. 475 Thomas Draper of Sunninghill-Park in Berkshire , Esq 476 11. Henry Wright of Dagenham in Essex , Esq 477 Iune 12. Ionathan Keate of the Hoo in Hartfordshire , Esq 478 Sir Hugh Speake of Hasilbury in VViltshire , Esq 479 13. Nicholas Gould of the City of London , Esq 480 Sir Thomas Adams , Kt. Alderman of London . 481 Richard Atkins of Clapham in Surrey , Esq 482 14. Thomas Allen of the City of London , Esq 483 Henry North of Milden-hall in Suffolk , Esq 484 15. Sir William Wiseman of Rivenham in Essex , Kt. 485 18. Thomas Cullum of Hastede in Suffolk , Esq 486 20. Thomas Darcy of St. Cleres-hall in St. Oliths in Essex , Esq 487 George Grubham How of Cold-Barwick in Wiltshire , Esq 488 21. Iohn Cutts of Childerley in Cambridgshire , Esq Extinct . 489 Solomon Swale of Swale-hall in Yorkshire , Esq 490 VVilliam Humble of the City of London , Esq 491 22. Henry Stapleton of Miton in Yorkshire , Esq 492 Gervase Elwes of Stoke near Clare in Suffolk , Esq 493 Robert Cordell of Melford in Suffolk , Esq 494 Sir Iohn Robinson Kt. Lieutenant of the Tower of London . 495 Sir Iohn Abdy of Moores in Essex , Kt. 496 25. Sir Robert Hilliard of Patrington in Yorkshire , Kt. 497 Iacob Astley of Hill-Morton in VVarwickshire , Esq 498 Sir VVilliam Bowyer of Denham in Bucks , Kt. 499 Thomas Stanley of Alderley in Cheshire , Esq 500 26. Iohn Shuckborough of Shuckborough in Warwickshire , Esq 501 27. VVilliam Wray of Ashby in Lincolnshire , Esq 502 Nicholas Steward of Hartley Manduit in Hantshire , Esq 503 Iune 27. 1660. George Warburton of Areley in Cheshire , Esq 504 Sir Francis Holles of Winterburne St. Martin in Dorsetshire , Kt. Son and Heir to Denzill Lord Holles . 505 28. Oliver St. Iohn of Woodford in Northamptonshire , Esq 506 29. Ralph De la Vall of Seyton De la Vall in Northumberland , Esq 507 30. Andreas Henley of Henley in Somersetshire , Esq 508 Thomas Ellis of Wyham in Lincolnshire , Esq 509 Iuly 2. Iohn Covert of Slaugham in Sussex , Esq 510 Peter Lear of London , Gent. 511 Maurice Berkley of Bruton , Esq 512 3. Henry Hudson of Melton-Mowbray in Leicestershire , Esq 513 Thomas Herbert of Tinterne in Monmouthshire , Esq 514 4. Thomas Middleton of Chirk in Denbighshire , Esq 515 6. Verney Noell of Kirkby in Leicestershire , Esq 516 7. George Buswell of Clipston in Northamptonshire , Esq 517 10. Robert Au●ten of Bexley in Kent , Esq 518 12. Robert Hales of Bekesburne in Kent , Esq 519 13. Sir William Boothby of Bradley-Ash in Derbyshire , Kt. 520 14. Wolstan Dixey of Market-Bosworth in Leicestershire , Esq 521 16. Iohn Bright of Badsworth in Yorkshire , Esq 522 Iohn Warner of Parham in Esq 523 17. Sir Iob Harby of Aldenham in Hartfordshire , Kt. 524 18. Samuel Morland of Southamstede-Banester in Berkshire , Esq 525 19. Sir Thomas Hewit of Pishobury in Hartfordshire , Kt. 526 Edward Honywood of Evington in Kent , Esq 527 Basil Dixwell of Bromehouse in Kent , Esq 528 22. Richard Brown of London Ald. 529 23. Henry Vernon of Hodnet in Shropshire , Esq 530 Sir Iohn Awbrey of Llantrilhed in Glamorganshere , Kt. 531 William Thomas of Fowington in Essex , Esq 532 25. Thomas Sc●ater of Cambridge in Cambridgshire , Esq 533 Henry Conway of Botritham in Flintshire , Esq 534 26. Edward Green of Sonpford in Essex , Esq 535 28. Iohn Stapeley of Patcham in Sussex , Esq 536 30. Metcalf Robinson of Newby in Yorkshire , Esq 537 31. Marmaduke Gresham of Limpsfield in Sussex , Esq 538 Aug. 1. William Dudley of Clopton in Northamptonshire , Esq 539 2. Hugh Smithson of Stanwick in Yorkshire , Esq 540 3. Sir Roger Mostin of Mosti● in Flintshire , Kt. 541 4. William Willoughby of Willoughby in Nottinghamshire , Esq 542 6. Anthony Oldfield of Spalding in Lincolnshire , Esq 543 10. Peter Leicester of Tabley in Cheshire , Esq 544 11. Sir William Wheeler of the City of Westminster , Kt. 545 16. Iohn Newton of Barscote in Glocestershire , Esq 546 Thomas Lee of Hartwell in Bucks , Esq 547 Thomas Smith of Hatherton in Cheshire , Esq 548 17. Sir Ralph Ashton of Middleton in Lancashire , Esq 549 Iohn Rous of Henham in Suffolk , Esq 550 22. Henry Massingbeard of Bratostshall in Lincolnshire , Esq 551 28. Iohn Hales of Coventry in Warwickshire , Esq 552 30. Ralph Bovey of Hill-fields in Warwickshire , Esq 553 Iohn Knightley of Offchurch in Warwickshire , Esq 554 31. Sir Iohn Drake of Ash in Devonshire , Kt. 555 Sept. 5. Oliver St. George of Carickermrick in the County of Trim in Ireland , Esq 556 11. Sir Iohn Bowyer of Knipersley in Staffordshire , Kt. 557 13. Sir William Wild , Kt. Recorder of the City of London . 558 19. Ioseph Ash of Twittenham in Middlesex , Esq 559 22. Iohn How of Compton in Glocestershire , Esq 560 26. Iohn Swimburne of Chap-Heton in Northumberland , Esq 561 Oct. 12. Iohn Trott of Laverstoke in Hantshire , Esq 562 13. Humphrey Miller of Oxenheath in Kent , Esq 563 15. Sir Iohn Lewes of Ledston in Yorkshire , Kt. 564 16. Iohn Beale of M●idston in Kent , Esq 565 Sir Richard Franklin of Moore-Park in Hartfordshire , Kt. 566 Nov. 8. William Russel of Langhorne in Caermarthenshire , Esq 567 9. Thomas Boothby of Friday-hill in the Parish of Chingford in Essex , Esq 568 William Backhouse of London , Esq Extinct . 569 12. Sir Iohn Cutler of London , Kt. 570 16. Giles Mottet of Leigh in Esq 571 21. Henry Gifford of Burstall in Leicestershire , Esq 572 Sir Thomas Foot of London , Kt. and Alderman . 573 22. Thomas Manwaring of Overpever in Cheshire , Esq 574 Thomas Benet of Baberham in Cambridgshire , Esq 575 29. Iohn Wroth of Blenden-hall in Kent , Esq 576 Dec. 3. George Wynne of Nostell in Yorkshire , Esq 577 4. Heneage Featherstou of Blakesware in Hartfordshire , Esq 578 Humphrey Monnox of Wotton in Bedfordshire , Esq 579 10. Iohn Peyton of Dodington in the Isle of Ely in Cambridgshire , Esq 580 11. Edmond Anderson of Broughton in Lincolnshire , Esq 581 Iohn Fagg of Wiston in Sussex , Esq 582 18. Matthew Herbert of Bromfield in Shropshire , Esq 583 19. Edward Ward of Bexley in Norfolk , Esq 584 22. Iohn Keyt of Ebrington in Glocestershire , Esq 585 William Killegrew of Arwynick in Cornwal , Esq 586 Iohn Buck of Lamby-Grange in Lincolnshire , Esq 587 24. William Frankland of Thirkelby in Yorkshire , Esq 588 Richard Stiddolph of Norbury in Surrey , Esq 589 William Gardner of the City of London . 590 28. William Iuxon of Albourn in Sussex , Esq 591 29. Iohn Legard of Ganton in Yorkshire , Esq 592 31. George Marwood of Little-Buskby in Yorkshire , Esq 593 Iohn Iackson of Hickleton in Yorkshire , Esq 594 Ian. 2. Sir Henry Pickering of Whaddon in Cambridgshire , Kt. 595 Henry Bedingfield of Oxbrough in Norfolk , Esq 596 4. Walter Plomer of the Inner Temple , London , Esq 597 8. Herbert Springet of Broyle in Sussex , Esq 598 23. William Powell aliàs Hinson of Pengethley in Herefordshire , Esq 599 25. Robert Newton of the City of London , s 600 29. Nicholas Staughton of Staughton in Surrey , Esq 601 William Rokeby of Skyers in Yorkshire , Esq 602 Feb. 2. Walter Ernley of New-Sarum in Wiltshire , Esq 603 Iohn Hubaud of Ipsley in Warwickshire , Esq 604 7. Thomas Morgan of Llangahock in Monmouthshire , Esq 605 9. Richard Lane of Tulske in the County of Roscommon in the Kingdom of Ireland , Esq 606 15. George Wakefron of Beckford in Glocestershire , Esq 607 Benjamin Wright of Cranham-hall in Essex , Esq 608 18. Iohn Colleton of the City of London , Esq 609 18. Sir Iames Modyford of London , Kt. 610 21. Thomas Beaumont of Stoughtongra●ge in Leicestershire , Esq 611 23. Edward Smith of Eshe in the Bishoprick of Durham , Esq March 4. Iohn Napier aliàs Sandy of in Bedfordshire , Esq to take place next after Sir Thomas Holt , Num-88 . 612 Thomas Gifford of Castle-Iordan in the County of Meath in the Kingdom of Ireland , Esq 613 Thomas Clifton of Clifton in Lancashire , Esq 614 William Wilson of Eastborne in Sussex , Esq 615 Compton Read of Burton in Berkshire , Esq 616 10. Sir Brian Broughton of Broughton in Staffordshire , Kt. 617 16. Robert Slingsby of Newcells in Hartfordshire , Esq 618 Iohn Crofts of Stow in Suffolk , Esq 619 Ralph Verney of Middle-Claydon in Bucks , Esq 620 18. Robert Dicer of Vphall in Hartfordshire , Esq 621 20. Iohn Bromfield of Southwark in Surrey , Esq 622 Thomas Rich of Sunning in Berkshire , Esq 623 Edward Smith of Edmundthorp in Leicestershire , Esq 624 26. 1661. Walter Long of Whaddon in Wiltshire , Esq 625 30. Iohn Fetiplace of Chilrey in Berkshire , Esq 626 April 8. Walter Hendley of Louchfield in Sussex , Esq 627 9. William Parsons of Langley in Bucks , Esq 628 Iohn Cambell of Woodford in Essex , Esq 629 20. William Morice of Werrington in Devonshire , Esq one of his Majesties Principal Secretaries of State. 630 Sir Charles Gawdey of Crowshall in Suffolk , Kt. 631 29. William Godolphin of Godolphin in Cornwall , Esq 632 William Caley of Brumpton in Yorkshire , Esq 633 30. 1661. Thomas Curson of Water-Perry in Oxfordshire , Esq 634 May 1. Edmund Fowel of Fowel in Devonshire , Esq 635 7. Iohn Cropl●y of Clerkenwell in Middlesex , Esq 636 10. William Smith of Redcliff in Bucks , Esq 637 George Cooke of Wheatley in Yorkshire , Esq 638 Charles Lloyd of Garth in Montgomeryshire , Esq 639 Nathaniel Powel of Ewhurst in Essex , Esq 640 15. Denney Ashburnham of Bromhall in Sussex , Esq 641 16. Hugh Smith of Long-Ashton in Somersetshire , Esq 742 18. Robert Ienkinson of Walcott in Oxfordshire , Esq 643 20. William Glynn of Bissister in Oxfordshire , Esq 644 21. Iohn Charnock of Holcot in Bedfordshire , Esq 645 Robert Brook of Newton in Suffolk , Esq 646 25. Thomas Nevill of Holt in Leicestershire , Esq 647 27. Henry Andrews of Lathbury in Bucks , Esq 648 Iuly 4. Anthony Craven of Spersholt in Berkshire , Esq 649 5. Iohn Clavering of Axwell in Durham , Esq 650 8. Thomas Derham of West-Derham in Norfolk , Esq 651 17. William Stanley of Howton in Cheshire , Esq 652 Abraham Cullen of Eastshene in Surrey , Esq 653 Iames Roushout of Milnstgreen in Essex , Esq 654 Godfrey Copley of Sprotborough in Yorkshire , Esq 655 Griffith Williams of Penrhin in Caernarvonshire , Esq 656 18. Henry Winchcumbe of Buckdebury in Berkshire , Esq 657 Clement Clarke of Lande-Abby in Leicestershire , Esq 658 Thomas Vyner of the City of London , Esq 659 Iohn Sylyard of Delaware in Kent , Esq 660 10. Christopher Guise of Elsmore in Glocestershire , Esq 661 11. Reginald Forster of East-Greenwich in Kent , Esq 662 11. Philip Parker of Erwarton in Esq. 663 Sir Edward Duke of Denhall in Suffolk , Esq 664 21. Charles Hussey of Caythorpe in Lincolnshire , Esq 665 Edward Barkham of Waynfleet in Lincolnshire , Esq 666 23. Thomas Norton of Coventry in Warwickshire , Esq 667 Iohn Dormer of the Grange in Bucks , Esq 668 Aug. 2. Thomas Carew of Haccombe in Devonshire , Esq 669 7. Mark Milbank of Halnaby in Yorkshire , Esq 670 16. Richard Rothwell of Ewerby and Stapleford in Lincolnshire , Esq 671 22. Iohn Bankes of London , Esq 672 30. Iohn Ingoldsby of Letherborow in Bucks , Esq 673 Sept. 3. Francis Bickley of Attilborough in Norfolk , Esq 674 5. Robert Iason of Broad-Somerford in Wiltshire , Esq 675 26. Sir Iohn Young of Culliton in Devonshire , Kt. 676 Oct. 4. Iohn Frederick van Freisendorf of Herdick , Lord of Kymp , Embassadour to his Majesty . 677 Nov. 8. William Roberts of Willesdon in Middlesex , Esq 678 15. William Luckin of Waltham in Essex , Esq 679 28. Thomas Smith of Hill-hall in Essex , Esq 680 Dec. 3. Edwyn Sadler of Temple-Donesley of Hartfordshire , Esq 681 9. Sir William Windham of Orchard-Windham in Somersetshire , Kt. 682 Ian. 24. George Southcote of Bliborough in Lincolnshire , Esq 683 George Trevillian of Nettlecombe in Somersetshire , Esq 684 Feb. 4. Francis Duncombe of Tangley in Surrey , Esq 685 7. Nicholas Bacon of Gillingham in Norfolk , Esq 686 Richard Cocks of Dumbleton in Glocestershire , Esq 687 27. Iohn Coriton of Newton in Cornwall , Esq 688 28. Iohn Lloyd of Woking in Surrey , Esq 689 Mar. 1. Edward More of More-hall and Bankhall in Lancashire , Esq 690 7. Thomas Proby of Elton-hall in Huntingtonshire , Esq 691 Mar. 20. Miles Stapleton of Carleton in Yorkshire , Esq. 692 April 16. 1662. Sir Richard Braham of New-Windsor in Berkshire , Kt. 693 May 2. Sir Iohn Witerong of Stantonbury in Bucks , Kt. 694 Iune 13. Philip Matthews of Great Gobions near Rumford in Essex , Esq. 695 Iuly 1. Robert Bernard of Huntington in Huntingtonshire , Serjeant at Law. 696 15. Roger Lort of Stock-poole in Pembrokeshire , E●q . 697 15. Edward Gage of Hargrave in Suffolk , Esq. 698 22. Thomas Hooke of Franchford in Surrey , Esq. 699 24. Iohn Savile of Copley in Yorkshire , Esq. 700 Aug. 5. Christopher Wandesford of Kirklington in Yorkshire , Esq. 701 13. Richard Astley of Parshall in Staffordshire , Esq. 702 16. Sir Iacob Gerard of Langford in Norfolk , Kt. 703 21. Edward Fust of Hill in Glocestershire , Esq. 704 Sept. 1. Robert Long of Westminster in Middlesex , Esq. 705 13. Sir Robert Can of Compton-Greenfield in Glocestershire , Esq. 706 Octob. 24. William Middleton of Belsey-Castle in Northumberland , Esq. 707 Nov. 17. Richard Graham of Norton-Coniers in Yorkshire , Esq. 708 Thomas Tankard of Burrow-Brigg in Yorkshire , Esq. 709 20. Cuthbert Heron of Chipchase in Northumberland , Esq. 710 29. Sir Francis Wenman of Caswell in Oxfordshire , Kt. 711 Dec. 4. Henry Purefoy of Wadley in Berkshire , Esq. 712 9. Thomas Cobb of Adderbury in Oxfordshire , Esq. 713 12. Henry Brooks of Norton in Cheshire , Esq. 714 Dec. 22. 1662. Peter Pindar of Edinsnaw in Cheshire , Esq. 715 Ian. 19. Sir Nicholas Slaning of Mariston in Devonshire , Knight of the Bath . 716 22. Sir George R●eve of Thwayte in Suffolk , Kt. 717 Mar. 18. Thomas Brograve of Hammels in Hertfordshire , Esq. 718 Arpil 7. 1663. Sir Thomas Barnardiston of Kedington in Suffolk , Kt. 719 May 11. Sir Samuel Barnardiston of Brightwell-hall in Suffolk , Kt. 720 Iune 1. Sir Iohn Daws of Putney in Middlesex , Kt. 721 Sir Iohn Holman of Banbury in Oxfordshire , Kt. 722 29. William Cooke of Bromehall in Norfolk , Esq. 723 30. Iohn Bellot of Moreton in Cheshire , Esq. 724 Iuly 1. Sir George Downing of East-Hatley in Cambridgshire , Kt. 725 13. William Gawdey of West-Herting in Norfolk , Esq. 726 14. Sir Charles Pym of Brymmore in Somersetshire , Kt. 727 29. Sir William D'oyley of Shottesham in Norfolk , Kt. 728 Aug. 12. Sir Iohn Marsham of Curton in Kent , Kt. 729 15. Robert Burnham of Boughton-Mancalsey in Kent , Esq. 730 Dec. 15. Francis Leek of Newark in No●tinghamshire , Esq. 731 30. Iohn St. Barbe of Broadlands in Hantshire , Esq. 732 Feb. 22. Iames Pennyman of Ormesby in Cleaveland in Yorkshire , Esq. 733 Mar. 1. Thomas Moddiford of Lincolns-Inn in Middlesex , Esq. 734 3. George Selby of Whitehouse in Durham , Esq. 735 31. 1664. Sir Edmund Forresc●e of Fallowpit in Devonshire , Kt. 736 Samuel Tuke of Cressing-Temple in Essex , Esq. 737 May 25. Iohn Tempest of Touge in Yorkshire , Esq. 738 Iune 25. Littleton Osgoldeston of Chadlington in Oxfordshire , Esq. 739 Iuly 1. Giles Tooker of Maddington in Wiltshire , Esq. 740 13. Stephen Anderson of Eyworth in Bedfordshire , Esq. 741 Aug. 31. 1664. Thomas Bateman of How-hall in Norfolk , Esq. 742 Sept. 26. Thomas Lorrayne of Kirke-Hall in Northumberland , Esq. 743 27. Thomas Wentworth of Bretton in Yorkshire , Esq. 744 Nov. 2. Sir Theophilus Biddulph of Westcombe in Kent , Kt. 745 William Green of Micham in Surrey , Esq. 746 Dec. 24. William Cookes of Norgrave in Worcestershire , Esq. 747 Ian. 10. Sir Iohn Wolstonholme of London , Kt. 748 11. Sir Iohn Iacob of Bromley in Middlesex , Kt. 749 12. Iohn Yeomans of the City of Bristoll , Esq. 750 13. Iohn Pye of Hone in Derbyshire , Esq. 751 18. Thomas Taylor of the Parkhouse in Maid-stone in Kent , Esq. 752 Mar. 3. William Leman of Northaw or Northall in Hertfordshire , Esq. 753 30. 1665. Sir Robert Smith of Vpton in Essex , Kt. 754 Apr. 14. Sir Nicholas Crispe of Hammersmith in Middlesex , Kt. 755 15. Sir Iohn Shaw of Eltham in Kent , Kt. 756 May 10. Iohn Brown of Casome in Oxfordshire , Esq. 757 20. George Rawden of Moira in the County of Downe in Ireland , Esq. 758 Iune 8. Robert Iocelyn of Hyde-hall in Hertfordshire , Esq. 759 16. Robert Dackenf●eld Junior , of Duckenfield-hall in Cheshire , Esq. 760 Iuly 6. Iohn Lawson of Broughton in Yorkshire , Esq. 761 20. Philip Tyrrell of Hanslap and Castlethorpe in Bucks , Esq. 762 25. Francis Burdet of Burchet in Yorkshire , Esq. 793 26. George Moore of Maids-Morton in Bucks , Esq. 764 Sept. 9. Abel Barker of Hambleton in Rutlandshire , Esq. 765 Dec. 12. Sir William Oglander of Nunwell in the Isle of Wight , Kt. 766 Ian. 31. William Temple of Sheene in Surrey , Esq. 767 Mar. 1. William Swan o● South-fleet in Kent , Esq. 768 Mar. 6. 1665. Anthony Shirley of Preston in Sussex , Esq. 769 Maurice Diggs of Chilham-Castle in Kent , Esq. 770 Peter Gleane of Hardwick in Norfolk , Esq. 771 May 10. 1666. Iohn Nelthorpe of Grays-Inn in Middlesex , Esq. 772 10. Sir Robert Vyner of London , Kt. 773 Iune 13. Sir Thomas Twisden of Bradburn in Kent , Kt. 774 Iuly 4. Sir Anthony Aucher of Bishops-bourn in Kent , Kt. 775 7. Iohn Doyle of Chiselhamton in Oxfordshire , Esq. 776 12. Edward Hoby of Bisham in Berkshire , Esq. 777 21. Thomas Put of Combe in Devonshire , Esq. 778 Octob. 22. Iohn Tyrrell of Siringfield in Essex , Esq. 779 Nov. 17. Gilbert Gerard of Friskerton in Lincolnshire Esq. 780 Dec. 31. Sir Robert Y●omans of Redlands in Glocestershire , Kt. 781 Ian. 16. Carr Scroop of Cockerington in Lincolnshire , Esq. 782 29. Peter Fortescue of Wood in Devonshire , Esq. 783 Feb. 7. Sir Richard Bettenson of Wimbleton in Surrey , Kt. 784 Mar. 21. Algernon Peyton of Doddington in the Isle of Ely , Esq. 785 28. 1667. Roger Martin of Long-Melford in Suffolk , Esq. 786 May 7. Richard Hastings of Redlench in Somersetshire , Esq. 787 William Hanham of Wimborn in Dorcetshire , Esq. 788 24. Francis Top of Yarmarton in Glocestershire , Esq. 789 Aug. 28. 1668. William Langhorne of the Inner Temple London , Esq. 790 April 28. 1670. Edward Moston of Talacre in Flintshire , Esq. 791 May 5. Sir George Stonehouse for life , having surrendred his former Patent , Dated May 7. 1628. 792 Octob. 25. Fulwar Skipwith of Newbold-hall in Warwickshire , Esq. 793 May 19. 1671 , Iohn Sabin of Eyne in Bedfordshire , 794 Iune Philip Carteret of St. Owen in the Isle of Iersey , Esq. 795 28. William Chaitor of Croft-hall in Yorkshire , Esq. 796 Sept. Herbert Croft , Son to the Bishop of Hereford . 797 Mar. 11. Iohn Seintowbin of Clowence in Cornwall , Esq. 798 Edward Nevill of Grove in Nottinghamshire , Esq. 799 Sept. 1672. Robert Eden of West-Stukeland in Durham , Esq. 800 Nov. 28. Iohn Werden of Chester , Esq. Secretary to his Royal Highness . 801 Iune 2. 1673. Francis Warre of Hestercombe in Somersetshire , Esq. 802 Nov. 12. Orlando Bridgman of Ridley in Cheshire , Esq. 803 18. Francis Windham of Trent in Somersetshire , Esq. 804 Dec. 1. Arthur Harris of Stowford in Devonshire , Esq. 805 12. William Blacket of Newcastle in Northumberland , Esq. 806 Iohn Thomson of Haversham in Buckinghamshire , Esq. 807 Feb. 7. Thomas Allen of Blundeston in Suffolk , Esq. 808 Iune 7. 1674. Halswell Tynte of Halswell in Somersetshire , Esq. 809 May 22. Robert Parker of Ratton in Sussex , Esq. 810 20. Iohn Sherard of Lopthorpe in Lincolnshire , Esq. 811 Feb. 11. Iohn Osborn of Chicksands in Buckinghamshire , Esq. 812 Octob. 30. Walter Clargis of St. Martins in the Fields in Middlesex , Esq. 813 Nov. 12. Thomas Williams of Elham in Kent , Esq. 814 Dec. 24. Robert Filmer of East-Sutton in Kent , Esq. 815 Feb. 24. Sir Edward Nevill of Grove in Nottinghamshire , Kt. 816 Mar. 25. 1675. Cornelius Martin Tromp of Amst●rdam , Esq. 817 April 23. Richard Tulpe of Amsterdam , Esq. 818 Dec. 7. Thomas Samwell of Vpton in Northamptonshire , Esq. 819 Ian. 24. Charles Rich of the City of London , Esq. 820 Mar. 11. Benjamin Maddox of Wormley in Hertfordshire , Esq. 821 Apr. 1. 1676. William Barker of Bokinghall in Essex , Esq. 822 Aug. 19. Richard Head o● Rochester in Kent , Esq. 823 Dec. 18. Bennet Hoskins of Harwood in Herefordshire , Esq. 824 Feb. 8. Richard Standish of 〈◊〉 in Lancashire , Esq. 825 3. Alexander Robertson alias Collyear of Holland , Esq. 826 Mar. 3. Thomas Dyke of Horeham in Sussex , Esq. 827 29. 1677. Sir Robert Cotton of Cumbermere in Cestr. Kt. 828 April 7. Francis Willoughby of Wollaton in Nottinghamshire , Esq. 829 Iuly 28. Richard Newdigate Serjeant at Law. 830 Sept. 29. Richard Cust of Stamford in Lincolnshire , Esq. 831 Octob. 8. Francis Anderton of Lostock in Lancashire , Esq. 832 18 : Iames Symeon of Chilworth in Oxfordshire , Esq. 833 25. Iames Poole of Poole in Worrell in Cheshire , Esq. 834 Dec. 31. George Wharton of Kirkby-Kendal in Westmoreland , Esq. 835 Ian. 31. Hugh Ackland of Cullum-Iohn in Devonshire , Esq. 836 Apr. 22. Francis Edwards of Shrewsbury in Shropshire , Esq. 837 May 8. Sir Henry Oxinden of Deane in Kent , Kt. 838 18. Iames Bowyer of Leighthorne in Sussex , Esq. for life , and after to Henry Goring of Higden in the said County , Esq. 839 Iune 29. Ignatius Vitus alias White of Limberick in Ireland , Esq. KNIGHTS OF THE BATH . CHAP. XX. KNights of the Bath ( so called from part of the Ceremony at their Creation ) are commonly made at the Coronation of a King or Queen , at the Creation of a Prince , or of a Duke of the Blood Royal . Thus at the Creation of Henry Prince of VVales , and Charles Duke of York , the second Son of King Iames , Knights of the Bath were made ; and at the Coronation of our dread Sovereign King Charles the Second , 68 were made , whose Names you will find in the ensuing Catalogue . This Order was first erected , saith Froysard , in Anno 1399. by King Henry the Fourth , who to add to the lustre of his Coronation , created 46 Knights of the Bath ; and Mr. Selden thinks them more ancient : But that great Antiquary Elias Ashmole Esq is of the Opinion that the said King did not constitute , but rather restore the ancient manner of making Knights ; for formerly Knights Batchelors were created by Ecclesiasticks with the like Ceremonies , and being thus brought again into use , and made peculiar to the Degree of Knights of the Bath , they have ever ●ince continued : and the better to maintain this his Opinion , saith , That they have neither Laws nor Statutes assigned them ; neither are they to wear their Robes , but upon the time or solemnity for which they were created ( except the red Ribbon which they are allowed always to wear cross their left Shoulder ; ) and upon any vacancy their number ( which is uncertain ) is not supplyed . They are created with much noble Ceremonies , and have had Princes and the prime of the Nobility of their Fellowship . The particular manner of their Creation is mentioned by many Authors , but most exactly described , and illustrated with Figures of all the Ceremonies , by the learned Hand of VVilliam Dugdale Esq Norroy King at Arms , in his Description of VVarwickshire , to which laborious Peece I refer the curious Reader , borrowing from him , and some others , this small abstract of their Ceremonies . When one is to be made a Knight of this Order , at his coming to Court he is honourably received by the Chief Officers and Nobles of the Court , and hath two Esquires appointed to wait upon him , who convey him to the Chamber without more seeing him that day , where he is to be entertained with Musick ; then a Bath is to be prepared by the Barber , who is to trim him ; and the King being informed that he is ready for the Bath , he is by the most grave Knights there present instructed in the Orders and Fees of Chivalry , the Musick playing to his Chamber door ; then they hearing the Musick shall undress him , and put him naked into the Bath , and the Musick ceasing , some one of the Knights shall say , Be this an honourable Bath unto you : then shall he be conveyed to his Bed , which shall be plain and without Curtains ; and so soon as he is dry , they shall help to dress him , putting over his inward Garment a Rus●et Robe with long sleeves , and a Hood like unto that of an Hermit ; and the Barber shall take all that is within and without the Bath , with his Collar about his Neck , for his Fees : then shall he be conducted to the Chappel with Musick , where being entred , the Knights and Esquires shall be entertained with Wine and Spices for their favours done unto him ; then they take their leaves of him , and he and his two Esquires and a Priest performs a Vigil till almost day , with Prayers and Offerings , beseeching God , and his blessed Mother to make him worthy of that Dignity ; and being confessed , he shall , with one of the Governours , hold a Taper till the reading of the Gospel ; and then he shall give it to one of the Esquires to hold till the Gospel is ended ; and at the elevation of the Host , one of the Governours shall take the Hood from the Essquire , and after deliver it again till the Gospel in principio , and at the beginning take the Hood again , and give him the Taper again in his hand , having a penny ready near the Candlestick , at the words Verbum caro factum est , the Esquire kneeling , shall offer the Taper to the Honour of God , and a penny to the Honour of the person that makes him a Knight : This Ceremony being ended , he shall be conducted to his Chamber for some repose until the King's pleasure is known ; and then he is dressed and attended into the Hall , which is ready for his Reception , being girded with a Girdle of white Leather without Buckles , having a Coif on his Head , Mantles of Silk over a Kirtle of red Tartarin , tied with a lace of white silk , with a pair of white Gloves hanging at the ends of the Lace ; and this Attire is the Chandlers Fees : Then he is conducted by the Knights on Horsback to the King's Hall , with his Sword and his Spurs hanging at the Pomel of the Sword , being carried before him ; and the Marshal and Ushers meeting him , do desire him to alight ; the Marshal shall take his Horse for his Fee : and being brought to the high and second Table , with his Sword being held upright before him , the King coming into the Hall doth ask for the Sword and Spurs , which the Chamberlain shall take and shew the King , who takes the right Spur and delivers it to the most Noble Person there , wishing him to put it on the Esquire , which being done , a Knight puts on the left Spur ; then the King taking the Sword , which he girts about him , and putting his Arms about his Neck , saith , Be thou a good Knight , and after kisseth him ; then he is conducted to the Chappel , and kneeling with his right hand lying on the high Altar , he promiseth to maintain the Rites of Holy Church until his death ; and ungirting his Sword with great Devotion he offereth it there to God ; then at his going out the King's Master Cook , who is there ready to take off his Spurs , shall say , I the King's Master Cook am come to receive thy Spurs for my fee , and if you do any thing contrary to the order of Knighthood ( which God forbid ) I shall back your Spurs from your heels . Then he is conducted again into the Hall , where he shall sit at Table with the Knights ; and being risen and retired into his Chamber , his Attire is taken off , and again clothed with a blew Robe , having on his left Shoulder a Lace of white Silk hanging , to be worn upon all his Garments from that day forwards , till he have gained some Honour and Renown for some Feats of Arms , or some Prince or Lady of Quality cut that Lace from his Shoulder . After Dinner the Knights must come to the Knight , and conduct him into the King's presence , to return him thanks for these Honours , and so takes his leave of the King ; and the Governours craving his pardon for any miscarriage , and claiming their Fees according to the Custom of the Court , also take their leaves of the Knight . I shall conclude this Chapter with giving an Account of the Knights made at the Coronation of his Majesty . Knights of the Bath made at the Coronation of his Majesty King CHARLES the Second . EDward Lord Clinton , now Earl of Lincoln . Iohn Egerton Viscount Brackley , eldest Son to the Earl of Bridgwater . Sir Philip Herbert , then second Son to the Earl of Pembroke . Sir William Egerton , second Son to the Earl of Bridgwater . Sir Vere Fane , second Son to the Earl of Westmoreland . Sir Charles Berkley , eldest Son to George Lord Berkley . Sir Henry Bellasis , eldest Son to the Lord Bellasis . Sir Henry Hyde , now Earl of Clarendon . Sir Rowland Bellasis , Brother to Viscount Faulconberg . Sir Henry Capell . Sir Iohn Vaughan , now eldest Son to the Earl of Carbery . Sir Charles Stanley , Grandchild to the late Earl of Derby . Sir Francis Fane Sir Henry Fane Grandchildren to the Earl of Westmoreland . Sir William Portman Baronet . Sir Richard Temple Baronet . Sir William Ducy Baronet . Sir Thomas Trevor Baronet . Sir Iohn Scudamore Baronet . Sir William Gardiner Baronet . Sir Charles Cornwallis , afterwards Lord Cornwallis . Sir Iohn Nicholas . Sir Iohn Monson . Sir Bourcher VVray . Sir Iohn Coventry . Sir Edward Hungerford . Sir Iohn Knevett . Sir Philip Boteler . Sir Adrian Scroop . Sir Richard Knightley . Sir Henry Heron. Sir Iohn Lewkenor . Sir George Brown. Sir William Tyrringhum . Sir Francis Godolphin . Sir Edward Baynton . Sir Greville Verney . Sir Edward Harley . Sir Edward VValpool . Sir Francis Popham . Sir Edward VVise. Sir Christopher Calthrop . Sir Richard Edgcombe . Sir William Bromley . Sir Thomas Bridges . Sir Thomas Fanshaw . Sir Iohn Denham . Sir Nicholas Bacon . Sir Iames Altham . Sir Thomas VVendy . Sir Iohn Bramston . Sir George Freeman . Sir Nicholas Slaning . Sir Richard Ingoldsby . Sir Iohn Rolle . Sir Edward Heath . Sir William Morley . Sir Iohn Bennet . Sir Hugh Smith . Sir Simon Leech . Sir Henry Chester . Sir Robert Atkyns , now one of the Justices of the Common Pleas. Sir Robert Gayre . Sir Richard Powle . Sir Hugh Ducy . Sir Stephen Hales . Sir Ralph Bash. Sir Thomas VVhitmore . OF Knights Batchelors , With what is incident to that Degree of KNIGHTHOOD According to the Laws of England . CHAP. XXI . THE particular kinds of Services by which Lands of Inheritance are distinguished , are two ; viz. Knights of Service , and Knights of Soccage . And in ancient time Tenure by Knights Service was called Regale serviti●m , because it was done to and for the King and Realm , and forinsecum servitium , as appeareth in the 19 Edw. 2. Avowry 224. 26. Ass. p. 66. 7. Hen. 4. 19. Coke's seventh Part , 8. a. Calvin's case : because they who hold by Escuage ought to do and perform their Services out of the Realm , Litt. 35. & ideo forinsecum dici potest sit quia , & capitur foris , & hujusmodi , servitia persolvuntur ratione Tenementorum , & non Personarum . And as Knights-Service-Land requireth the service of the Tenant in Warfare and Battel abroad , so Soccage-Tenure commandeth the attendance at the Plough ; the one by Manhood defending the King , or his Lord's life and person ; the other by industry maintaining with Rents , Corn , and Victuals his Estate and Family . For Kings did thus order their own Lands and Tenements : one part they kept and detained in their own hands , and in them stately Houses and Castles were erected , and made for their habitations , and defence of their Persons , and of the Realm ; also Forests and Parks were there made for their Majesties Recreation : One other part thereof was given to the Nobles , and others of their Chivalry , reserving Tenure by Knights Service : The third part was bestowed upon men of meaner condition and quality , with reservation of Soccage-Tenure . And in this manner the Dukes and Nobles amongst their Menials and Followers dissipated a great part of their Lands ; viz. to their Gentlemen of quality , to hold by Knights Service , and to other of meaner condition by Soccage-Tenure . The Right Honourable S. Ioseph . Williams on of Milbeck hall in Cumberland Knight one of his Majestys principall Secretarys of State &c a. The Honourable Sr. Robert Atkins of Totteridge in Hertford shire , and of Sapperton in Glocester shire Knight of the Bath , and one of his matys . Iustices of the Com̄on pleas &c a. Sr. Iohn Bennet of Dawly in Midd sx . Kt. of the honble . order of the Bath , Leivtenant to his maties Band of Gentlemen Pentioners , and eldest brother to the Rt. honble . Henry Earle of Arlington ; who was first maried to Elizabeth Countess of Mulgrave daughter to the Earle of Midd sx . and now to Bridget Howe of the Family of Sr. Grubham Howe Sr. Robert Southwell Knight , one of the Clerkes attending his Majesty King Charles the Second in his most Honourable privy Councell &c●t . Sr. Hugh Wyndham of Silton in Dorsetshire Kt. one of the Iustices of his matys . Court of Comon pleas at Westminster , eighth sonn of S. Iohn Wyndham of Orchard-Wyndham in Somersetshire Kt , who was lineally descended from the antient Family of the Wyndhams of Felbrigg in Norfolk ●own●r ther●of Sr. Thomas Daniell of Beswick in the East Rideing of Yorkshire Kt. Major to his matys . Regiment of Foot Guards , and Captaine of his matys . Archchiffe Fort in Dover . Sr. Thomas Mompesson● antiently Montpintson● of Bathampton in Wiltshire Knight , a person of eminent Loyalty and suffering in the late trouble , whose Family have been of greate antiquity in the said County . Sr. Thomas Lynch of Great Sonkey in Lancashire Kt. , one of the Gentlemen of his maty● . privy Chamber in ordinary , and late Governour of his Ma ●●● Island of Jamaica , decended of the Linc●●s of Groves in Kent ; and is now maried to Vere Herbert , 2● . daughter of Sr. Edw : Herbert sometyme Lord Keeper of the gro●t sea●e . Sr. William Pelham of Brocklesby in Lincolnshire Kt. , whose Grandfat●er Sr. William Pelham of the said place Kt. , ( who was descended of the antient family , of the Pelhams of Langhtoni●● sussex ) was employed under Queen Eliz : in the offices of L d cheife Justice of Ireland , Marshall of the English forces sentinto the Low Countrys , Mast●● of her ordnance● and one of her privy Councell . Sr Thomas Davi●s of the Citty of London Knight Ld. Maior thereof Anno 1677. Sr. William Prichard of the Citty of London Kt. and Alderman ; now maried to Sarah daughter of Francis Cooke of Kingsthorp in Northampton shire Gent ● . Sr. Thomas Player of Hackney in Middlesex Knight , Chamberlaine of the Citty of London . Sr. Iohn Berkenhead Knight Master of Requests to his Majesty , and Master of the Faculties , and one of the members of the Honourable house of Comons . Sr William Drake of Amersham in the County of Bucks Knight . now maried to Elizabeth daughter of the honble . ● ● . Mount●gu Lord cheife Baron of his matys Court of Exchequer Sr William Pargiter of Greetworth in Northampton shire Knight a samily of good Antiquity whose Ancestors have been their Seated for many Generations . Sr. William Waller of Winchester in Hantshire K , descended from Richard Waller of Groombridg in Kent Esqr. who at the battle of Agencourt took Io● Duke of Orleanse Prisoner , and brought him to Groombridg , wh●re he remained a Prisoner 24 yeares ; and in memory of the Action it hath bin ever since allowed to the family to beare hanging on their Antient Crest the Armes of the said Duke . Sr William Hustler of Acklam in Cleaveland in The County of York Kt Sr. Joseph Sheldon of the Citty o● London Kt. Alderman & , Lord M●j . therof Anno 〈◊〉 Sr. Robt. Hanson of the Citty of Londo● Knight and Alderman . Lord Major thereof Anno 1673 Sr. Iohn Maynard of Gunnersbury in the Parish of Ealing in the County of Midlesex Knight , sergeant at Law to his Majesty King Charles the second . S ● . Iohn Short●r of the Citty of London Kt. and Alderman ; now maried to Ezabe● daughter of Iohn Birkhead of Ristwhait 〈◊〉 y● parish of Crostwhait in Cumberland Gen ● Robert Peyton of East Barnet in ye. County of 〈◊〉 Kt. descended of ye. Antient Family of ye. Peyton● Cambridgshire . no● Maried to Iane Daughter and 〈◊〉 heyrs of Lionell Robison of Couton in York shire Esq. Sr. Edward Lowe of new Sarum in Wiltshire Kt. one of the Masters of the High & Honourable Court of Chancery . Sr. Iohn Iames of Wi●●borow in K●nt Kt. d●scended of ye. ●nti●●● And S●r●ading Family of ye. Iam●●is Who Transpl●nted Themselu●s out of Cle●● in Germa●y into England About ye● 〈◊〉 of y●●●igne of K. 〈…〉 Family S●● 〈◊〉 in T●● Body of y● . Book S●ction Chap : 1 Th● S●S . Io●n is ●●w Maried to M●●y d●ught●r of Sr. Robert Ki●●e●r●w of Ha●worth in Middle●●● Kt. des●●ed 〈◊〉 C●●m●er●●n to y● Late Queen Mother . 〈◊〉 Hon Sr. Robert B●oth of Salford in L●●c●shire K ● . ● chife Iustice of 〈◊〉 Mat●s Court. of Com●n pleas in Ireland & one of his Ma ●●● most Hon pri●●●●●ncell for y● S d Kingdome , Grandchild & heyre of Humfry ●ooth of Salford 〈◊〉 G●n . whose Ch●ritable works 〈…〉 his name of w ● . see more in ●●●dy of y● Bocke s●e 3 chapt. 1● The Sd. S●r. Robert was first maried to mary ●●●ghter & heyre of Spencer Po●ts of Chalgraye in Bedfordshire Esq , & 〈…〉 to Susanna Daughter of Sr. 〈…〉 of Dean in East Kent Kt. A●●so● D●ceased : Sr. Charles Pitfeild of H●xton in the Parish of St. Leonard ●horditch in Middlesex Kt. Descended of the Antient family of the Pitfeilds of ●um●n●s●ry in D●rs●tshire● is now maried to Winefrid one of the Daughters and coeheyrs of Iohn Adderley of Cotton in Stafordshire Es● Sr. Thomas Middleton of Stansted Mount Fichit in ye. County of Essex Kt. now maried to Mary ye. Relict of Thomas Style Esq Eldest Son of Sr. Thomas Style of Wa●ering bury in ye● County of Kent Bar ● : and only Daughter of Sr. Stephen Langham of the Citty of London : Kt. Sr. Francis Theobald of Barking hall in Suffolk Kt. a great Lover of Lerning & fautor of Lerned men in Soemuch that Dr. Castle in his Polyg●o● Lexicon makes This mention of him yt. he is harum Linguarum Callentissimus Sr. Robt. Hardinge late of Kings-Newton in the Parish of Melborne in Darby-shire , N●w of Grais Inn in Middle ● . Kt. his matys . Attorney of all his Forests &c. from Trent Northward's a great sufferer for there matys . King Charles the first & second . Hee Maried Anna eldest daughr. of Sr. Richard Sprignell of H●gate in Middlesex Bar ● . Deceased . Sr. Io. Kirke of East Ham in Esex Kt. one of the Band of Gentleman Pentioners to his maty● . King Charles the 2d. which sd. Sr. Io. and his family hath been very actiue for the Servi c ● of there King and Country . & in particular at Canade in America . Sr. Thomas Marshe of Darkes in the Parish of South Mimms in Com Middlesex Knight Sr. William Beversham of Holbrookhall in Suffolk Knight . one of the Masters o● the High and Honourable Court of Chancery And it was anciently ordained , That all Knights Fees should come unto the eldest Son by succession of Heritage , whereby he succeeding his Ancestor in the whole Inheritance , might be the better able to maintain War against the King's Enemies , or his Lords ; and that the Soccage of Freehold be partable between the Male Children , to enable them to encrease into many Families for the better encrease of Husbandry . But as nothing is more unconstant than the Estates we have in Lands and Livings , even so long since these Tenures have been so indifferently mixt and confounded in the hands of each sort , that there is not now any note of difference to be gathered by them . Lambert Peramb . of Kent , 10. Et quia tale servitium forinsecum non semper manet sub eadem quantitate , sed quandoque praestatur ad plus , quandoque ad minus ; ideo eo quantitate Regalis servitii , & qualitate fiat mentio in charta , ut tenens certum tenere possit , quid & quantum persolvere teneatur . And therefore the certainty of the Law in this case is , That he that holdeth by a whole and entire Knight's Fee must serve the King , or his other Lord , forty days in the Wars well and sufficiently arrayed and furnished at all points : and by twenty days if he hold by a moiety of a Knights Fee ; and so proportionable . And in the Seventh of Edw. 3. 246. it was demurred in Judgment , Whether Forty days shall be accounted from the first day that the King did first enter into Scotland ; but it seemeth that the days shall be accompted from the first day that the King doth enter into Scotland , because the Service is to be done out of the Realm . And they that hold per Regale servitium , are not to perform that Service , unless the King do also go himself into the Wars in proper Person , by the Opinion of Sir VVilliam Earle Chief Justice of the Common Pleas , Irium Sept. Edw. 3. 246. but vide 3 Hen. 6. tit . Protection 2. in which Case it was observed , That seeing the Protector ( who was Prorex ) went , the same was adjudged a Voyage Royal. Also before the Statute de quia emptores terrarum , which was made decimo octavo Edw. 1. the King or other Lord had given Lands to a Knight to hold of him by Service and Chivalry ( scil . ) to go with the King , or with his Lord , when the King doth make a Voyage Royal to subdue his Enemies , by Forty days well and conveniently arrayed for the War. In this Case the Law hath such regard to the Dignity of Knighthood , that he may find an able person to go for him , and the Knight is not compelled by his Tenure to go in person as ordinary Souldiers , who are hired or retained by Prest-money or Wages . There hath been many and varying Opinions of the contraries of a Knight's Fee , as you may read in Coke's ninth Part 122. and there it is proved , that Antiquity hath thought that Twenty pounds in Land was sufficient to maintain the Degree of Knighthood ; as it doth appear in the ancient Treatise De modo tenendi Parliamentum tempore Regis Edwardi , filii Regis Ethelred ; which also doth concur with the Act of Parliament Anno primo Edw. 2. de militibus : by which Act of Parliament Census militis , the Estate of a Knight was measured by the value of Twenty pound Lands per Annum , and not by any certain content of Acres . And with this doth agree the Statute of VVestminster , cap. 35. & Fitz. Nat. Brev. 82. where Twenty pounds Land per Annum in Soccage is put in equipage with a Knight's Fee. And this is the most reasonable estimation ; for one Acre may be more worth in value than many others . And it is to be observed , That the relief of a Knight , and of all Superiors that be Noble , is the fourth part of their Revenue by the year ; as of a Knight five pounds , and so of the rest . And because this Tenure doth concern Service in War , the Tenants are therefore called Milites Militia : for though the word doth properly signifie a Souldier , yet antiquity hath appropriated that name to the chiefest of Military Profession . In our Law they are styled Milites , and never Equites ; yet so , that Miles is taken for the self same that Chivalry is . Bracton fol. 79. maketh mention of Rode Knights , that is to say , serving Horsmen , who held their Lands with condition that they should serve their Lords on Horsback . And so by cutting off a peece of a Name ( as our delight is to speak short ) this name Knight remaineth with us ; for Armiger , scil . the Esquire , which is a Degree under the Knight , was in the Military Service to serve on foot . Note , He that holdeth by a whole Knight's Fee , must be with the King Forty days well and compleatly arrayed for the War , which is to be understood to serve on Horseback . And in all Nations the name of this Dignity is taken of Horses ; for the Italians call them Cavelieri ; the Frenchmen Chivaleris ; the Germans , Regters ; our Britains , Murgeghe , all riding ; and in Latin we call them Equites aurati ; for at their Creations , besides the Sword and Girdle , gilt Spurs were added for more Ornament . And when a Knight doth commit any offence for which he is by the Law to suffer death , the use hath been in the begining of his punishment to degrade and deprive him publickly of his Honour of Knighthood ( for it is but with life leas'd , or taken away , Mills 81. ) by ungirding his Military Girdle , by taking away his Sword , and broken , his Spurs cut off with an Hatchet , his Gauntlets pluck't from him , and the Escocheons of his Arms reversed . And in the Statute made 24 Hen. 8. chap. 13. entituled an Act for Reformation of Apparel , It was permitted for Knights to wear a Collar of Gold , named the Collar of SS . And although this Dignity of Knighthood had its original , and was given to men of War and Prowess ; yet in all Successions of Ages , and in all Nations , the same also is bestowed upon men of Peace by the Sovereign Power to deserving persons , whereby the Service of the Commonwealth at home is made equal with that abroad : For as Tully saith truly , Parvi sunt arma foris , nisi est consilium domi . But Experience , the faithfullest Counsellor and best Mistress , hath made it manifest both in this modern Age , as well as in that of Tullie's , that the Camp hath bred more eminent Statesmen , and happily as good Politicians , as the long Robe : Perhaps for this Reason , one aims chiefly at Glory and Honour , which easily attracts admirers and favourers ; the other at Riches and indirect Negotiations , which begets Envy and private Enemies . He that receiveth the Dignity of a Knight kneeleth down , and then the King slightly smiteth him upon his Shoulder , and saith unto him these words in French , Sois Chivaler au nome de Dieu ; and afterwards saith moreover , Avance Chivaler : See the Book of Titles of Honour due to the Earl-Marshal for the making of Knights , 176. For a Knight is not made by Letters Patents , or by the King 's Writ , as those of higher Dignity , but by the Sword ; for this Honour is supposed to be given on the sudden , and therefore is commonly done by the Sword , although the King may by his Letters Patents create a Knight . Earls in ancient times had a power of Knighting ; but now neither may the Prince , or any other of the Nobility , make a Knight , but only the King , or Lieutenant General by his Commission . No man is born a Knight , as he may be to Titles of Honour by Patent ; but a Knight may be made assoon as a Child is baptized , except Knight Bannerets . Note the printed Book of Titles of Honour , fol. 218 , 313. the first Knight . With us in England there are divers sorts of Knights , whereof Cambden 171. and Mills do write at large : But amongst the Romans there was but one Order of them , and they were next in Degree unto the Senators . And they who simply , without any Addition , be called Knights , howsoever they are in order ranked last , yet by institution they are first , and of greatest Antiquity ; and the other Orders are but late Attributes , according to the several inventions of particular Princes . And I do not remember that in our Books of Law I have read any thing concerning the Order of Knights with Addition , viz. Knights of the Honourable Order of the Garter , Knights Bannerets , and Knights of the Bath . But in the Statute 12 Hen. 8. cap. 13. it is enacted , That every Knight of the Garter may have three Chaplains , whereof every one may purchase licence or dispensation , and receive , have , and keep two Benefices with cure of Souls : but they of this Order which I now treat of , are called Knights of the Spur , or Knights Batchelors . Between Doctors of the Civil Law and Knights hath ever been question for precedency , since either of them hath been in credit in the Common-wealth : as may appear both by the Comparison that Tully maketh between Lucius Murena , a Knight of Rome , and Publius Sulpitius a Lawyer , either of them standing for Consulship , in his Eloquent Oration made for Murena ; and many Disputes of Bardal and Bardus , arguing the Case Pro and Con : which though it be disputable in Foreign Parts ; yet here in England it is without Controversie , and the precedency thereof is undoubtedly the Knights . But if they be both of equal degree of Knighthood , then it goeth by Seniority . The Opinion of some men lately hath been , That Knights Lieutenants ( that is to say ) such Knights as either have been Ambassadors in Foreign Parts , or Judges within the Realm , may and ought to have , during their lives , precedency above men of their own rank after their Offices expire ; and sub Iudice his est , not determined by Judgment . But admitting it so to be , by way of Argument in that case ; yet the Heralds do deny that priviledge to the Lord Mayor and Aldermen of London , or Justices of the Peace , who have their limited Jurisdiction of Magistracy confined them : but the former are generally Magistrates throughout the Realm , and their employment concerneth the whole Commonwealth ; and having the publick Justice and Honour of the whole Estate committed unto them , do more meritoriously draw from thence a great respect of Honour , according to the generality of their Administration and Employments , which an inferiour and more con●●ned Magistrate cannot have . The name of a Knight is a name of Dignity , and a Degree , as is the name of Duke , Earl , &c. and in all Actions he shall be slyled Knight ; otherwise the Writ shall abate . A Knight also must be named by both his Chri●tian and Surnames , as Sir A. B. Knight . But those Degrees honourable that are made by Patent , may be named only by their Christian Names , and by their Title of Honour , as Gilbert Earl of Shrewsbury : and that for two causes ; First , because of their solemn Creations ( & nomen dicitur à noscendo ; ) Secondly , there is but one part of that Title of Honour within England , and therefore it is certain what person he is ; but otherwise of Knights , as it is certainly known in the 8 Edw. 4.24 . a. And Prisot , Chief Justice , saith , in the 32 Hen. 6. 26. b. That if an Esquire be made a Knight , he loseth his Name of Esquire ; but though a Knight be made a Nobleman , or of any higher Degree , he doth still retain the name of Knight , and so ought to be styled in all Writs . Also if a man do recover in an Action by the Name of Iohn Stiles , Esq and afterwards be made a Knight , he must sue his Scire Facias by the Name of Knight . And this name shall not die with him ; for if they were bound in an Obligation by the Name of Gentlemen or Esquires , and afterwards one is made a Knight , and dieth , the Plaintiff in the Action to be brought against his Executors , must name him Knight , otherwise the Writ shall abate . If a Grant be made to H. D Knight , when he is not a Knight , it is a void Grant : but if it be a Feoffment with Livery , the Livery maketh it good . If the Plaintiff or Demandant do in his Writ name the Defendant or Tenant Esquire when he is a Knight , the Writ shall not only abate , but also the Plaintiff may not have another Writ by Iourneys accompt . But by the Statute made 1 Edw. 6. chap. 7. it is amongst other things enacted , That albeit any person or persons , being Justices of Assize , Justices of Goal-delivery , or Justices of the Peace within any of the King's Dominions , or by any other of the King's Commissions whatsoever , shall have the fortune to be made or created Duke , Archbishop , Marquess , Earl , Viscount , Bishop , Baron , Knight , Justice of the one Bench , or of the other , Serjeant at Law , or Sheriff , yet that notwithstanding he and they shall remain Justices and Commissioners , and have full power and authority to execute the same in like manner and form as he or they might or ought to have done before the same . By the Satute of 1 Hen. 5. chap. 5. it is enacted as followeth , That every Writ , Original of Actions personal , Appeals , and Indictments , and in which an Exigit shall be awarded to the names of the Defendants , in such Writs , Oginal , Appeals , and Indictments shall be made the Additions of their Estate , Degrees , &c. And a little after it is provided , That if the said Writs of Actions Personal be not accordding to the Record and Deed , by the Surplusage of the Additions aforesaid , that for this cause they are not . Iohn S●iles Gent. is bound by Obligation to one W. B. the Obligor is afterwards made Knight , the Bond is forfeited ; W. B. by his Attorney draweth a Note or Title for an Original , according to the Defendants Degree , although it varies from the Original Specialty , as it ought to be made by the Statute : But the Cursitor mistaking , did make the Original only according to such Addition as was specified in the Obligation , omitting his Degree or Dignity , and the Entry of the Capias alias & pluris was according to the said Original ; But in the Exigit and Proclamation , and Entry of it , the Defendant was named according to his Degree of Dignity : upon a Writ of Error after a Judgment , doubt was , If this might be amended in another Court than where the Original was mâde ; and at the last it was resolved by all the Court , That the Record should be amended by the Cursitor , and made according to the Note and Title delivered unto him by the Attorney . It appeareth in our Books of Law , that the highest and lowest Dignities are universal ; for as if a King of a Foreign Nation come into England by his Majestie 's leave ( as it ought to be ) in this case he shall sue and be sued by the Name of a King ; So shall a Knight sue or he sued by the name of a Knight , wheresoever he received that Degree of Honour : But otherwise it is as if a Duke , Marquess , Earl , or other Title of Honour given by any Foreign King or Emperor , yea , although the King by his Letters Patents of safe Conduct do name him Duke , or by what other Foreign Title of Dignity he hath ; For Experience teacheth that Kings joyned in League together by a certain mutual ( and as it were a natural ) power of Monarchs ( according to the Law of Nations ) have admitted one anothers Servants , Subjects , and Ambassadors graced with the Title of Knighthood . Therefore though a Knight receive his Dignity of a Foreign Prince , he is so to be stiled in all Legal Proceedings within England . And Kings were wont to send their Sons unto their Neighbour Princes to receive Knighthood at their hands , thinking that it was more honourable to take Arms of some other , le●t affection might seem to prevent Judgment , when the Father gave them that Honour . Thus our King Henry the Second sent unto David King of Scots , and Malcombe King of Scots unto our Henry the Second , and our Edward the First unto the King of Castile , to take of them Military Arms : For these terms and phrases they used in that Age for the Creation of a Knight . And Knights in all Foreign Countries have ever place and precedency according to their Seniority of being Knighted , which priviledge is denied to Noblemen ; for be they never so ancient , in Foreign Countries they shall go below , as Puisnes . The Degree of Knighthood is not only a Dignity and Honour to the party , ( for so it is termed in Brook's Title Additions 44. ) but an Honour to the Kingdom : And therefore it hath been an ancient Prerogative of the Kings of this Realm , at their pleasure to compel men of worth to take upon them that Degree upon payment of a Fine . But we see by Experience in these days , that none are compelled thereunto , and that is the reason , wherefore , if the Plaintiff be Knighted having the Writ , it shall abate , because he hath changed his name , and that by his own Act. And for that cause also , by the Common Law , not only the King , but every Lord of a Mannor ought to have of every of his Tenants a reasonable Aid to make his eldest Son a Knight : And all Lands are subject to these Aids , except only ancient Demesne , and grand and petty Serjeanty-Tenures , as the Law hath ●een anciently delivered : And in Io. Shelden 131. where also it is said , one that wrote a little after the Statute of Westminster the first , allows as a good barr to the Avowry , for the Tenant to plead that the Father himself is no Knight ; so that one not Knighted cannot claim this Ayd of his Tenants , Bri●an . cap. de prices de avers . And it was at the liberty of the Lord to make more or less of his Tenants by the Common Law in this Case ; but by the Statute of Westminster the first , Chap. 35. it is put in contrary , viz. forasmuch as before this time reasonable Aid to make ones Son Knight , or to marry his Daughter was never put in certain , nor how much should be taken , nor at what time , whereby some levied unreasonable Aid , and more often than seemed necessary , whereby the people were sore grieved : It is provided that from henceforth , of a whole Knight's Fee , there be taken but Twenty shillings ; and of Twenty pounds in Land holden in Soccage , Twenty shillings ; and of more , more ; and of less , less ; after that rate . And that none shall levy such Aid to make his Son a Knight , until his Son be of fifteen years old ; nor to marry his Daughter until she be of the Age of seven years : And of that there shall be mention made in the King's Writs formed on the same , when any will demand it . And if it happen that the Father , after he hath levied such Aid of his Tenants , die before he hath married his Daughter , the Executors of the Father shall be bound to the Daughter for so much as the Father received for the Aid . And if the Father's Goods be not sufficient , his Heir shall be charged therewith unto the Daugher . And this Aid is so incident , that although the Lord do confirm unto the Tenant to hold by Fealty and certain Rent , and release unto him all other Services and Demands ; yet shall he have the Aid to make his eldest Son a Knight . But the King was not bound by the Statute aforementioned , because the King was not named in the Statute : Therefore by the Statute 25 Edw. 3. chap. 11. the King's Aid were brought to a like value . The intention of the Law is , That an Heir until the Age of One and twenty years , is not able to do Knights Service . But such a presumption of Law doth give place to a Judgment of proof to the contrary , as Bracton saith , S●abitur presumptioni , donec probetur in contrarium . And therefore when the King , who is the Sovereign Judge of all Chivalry , hath dubbed him a Knight , he by this hath adjudged him able to do him Knight's Service , and all men are concluded to say the contrary to it : And therefore such an Heir being made a Knight , either in the life time of his Father , or afterwards during his minority , shall be out of Ward and Custody both for his Land , and Body , and marriage by the Award of the ancient Common Law. By reason also that the Honour of Knighthood is so great , that it is not to be holden under by any ; yet if the King do create such an Heir within Age a Duke , Marquess , Earl , Viscount , or ●aron , by this he shall not be out of Ward and Custody both for his Land and Body . And therefore it is propounded by the Statute of Magna Charta , chap. 3. Ita tamen quod si ipse , dum infra aetatem fuerit , fiat miles , nihilominus terra remaneat in Custodia Dominorum suorum . So that although such an Heir within Age be made Knight , and thereby to this purpose is esteemed as of full Age ; yet the Land shall remain in Custody of the Lord , till his Age of One and twenty years by the purview of the said Act. Question : If the Son and Heir of the Tenant of the King by Knights Service , &c. be made Knight in Paris by the French King , whether he shall be out of Wardship after the death of his Father , or no ? for thereby he is a Knight in England : Coke's seventh part , b. 2 Edw. 4. fol. tamen vide in Coke's sixth part , 74. b. mention is only made of Knights made by the King himself , or by his Lieutenant in Ireland . But when the King doth make an Heir apparent within Age of a Tenant by Knights Service a Knight in the life of his Ancestor ; and after the death of his Ancestor the said Heir being within Age , shall in this Case be out of Ward , and shall pay no value for his marriage , neither shall the Lord have the Custody of the Land ; for in that Case , by the making of him Knight in the life of his Ancestor , he is made of full Age ; so that when his Ancestor dieth , no interest , either in the Body , or in the Land , shall invest in the Lord ; but the Knight may tender his Livery as if he were of full Age : And in that case the King shall have primier Seisin , as if he had been One and twenty years of Age at the time of the death of his Ancestor , and not otherwise . For the Statute of Magna Charta doth not extend unto it ; for the purview of it doth extend only when the Heir in Ward ( infra aetatem ) is made Knight , then remanet terra in Custodia , &c. But when the Heir is made Knight in the life of his Ancestor , then the Custody cannot remain , which never had any inception or essence . Also when the Heir , after the death of his Ancestor , within Age is made Knight , if after tender made to him he within Age do marry elsewhere , yet he shall not pay the forfeiture of his marriage ; for by the making him Knight he is out of Ward and Custody of his Lord , for then he ought to be sui Iuris , and may imploy himself in feats of Arms for defence of the Realm , &c. and therefore may not be within the Custody of another ; and none shall pay any forfeiture , but when after any refusal he doth marry himself , during the time when he is under the custody and keeping of his Lord : And this doth appear by the Statute of Merton , chap. 6. Si se mariturierit sine licentia Domini sui , & ei conferet maritagium suum , &c. which words cannot be understood when he is out of Ward and Custody , no more than when he is married after the Age of One and twenty years . Note hereby , that the King may prevent his Grantee , or other Lords , of the double value by Knighthood : Yet in such case , presently after the Heir is made a Knight after the death of his Ancestor , the Lord may have a Writ de valore maritagii for the single . Also by the ancient Common Law of this Realm , if a Villain be made a Knight , he is immediately infranchised : And if a Ribald , or a man of base birth and condition had struck a Knight , by the ancient Law he should have lost his hand wherewith he offended . But in France it was anciently adjudged , that when the Lord of a Villain had Knighted his Villain , being a Gentleman he became free , and had his Honour law●ully ; but if another Lord had Knighted him , nothing had been wrought by it , for none could manumit him but his Lord ; and till Manumission or Knighthood he had civil freedom for his ground , but was not capable of it , except by the King only . It was enacted by Parliament in the sixth year of the Reign of King Iohn , in haec verba , Rex Vicecom . &c. Sciatis quod consensum est cum assensu Archiepiscoporum , Comitum , Baronum , & omnium fidelium nostrorum Angliae quod novem Milites per totam Angliam invenient decuriam Militum bene paratorum aequis & armis ad defensionem Regni nostri . There hath ever been , and still is , great use of the Services of Knights even in Civil Affairs , and concerning matters of Justice : as in a Writ of Right , which is the highest Writ in Law for trial of Titles touching the Inheritance of Lands ; the Tenant is at his Election to have his Trial by great Assize , or else by Battel ; if by the great Assize , the Writ De magna Assiza eligenda shall be thus , viz. Rex Vicecomiti salutem , &c. Summone as per bonos summonitores quatuor legales Milites de Comitatu tuo , quod sint coram Iusticiariis nostris ad primam Assizam cum in partes illas venerint ad eligendum super sacramentum suum , 12 de militibus de visum de N. qui melius sciant & velint dicere veritatem adfaciendam recognitionem magnae assurae inter A. petent . & B. tenent . de uno messuagio cum pertinentiis in N. unde idem B. qui tenens est posuit secum magnam Ass. nostram & petit recognitionem fieri utrum eorum habent jus in messuagium praed . B. qui tunc sit ibi auditurus illam electionem , & habeas ibi nomina praed . milit . ad hoc breve , &c. And upon the Return of this Writ , those four Knights must appear gladiis cuncti , Dier 79. fol. 103. If the Tenant make his Election by Battel , each parties are to choose their Champions , and the Court shall award the Battel , and the Champions shall be at Mainprize , and sworn to perform the Battel at a certain day in the Term ; and idem dies shall be given to the parties , at which day and place a List shall be made in an even and plain Ground there quadrant , that is to say , every way sixty foot square ; and the Place or Court for the Justices of the Common Pleas without , and upon the Lists furnished with the same Clothes which belong to their Court at Westminster , and a Barr shall be there made for the Serjeants at Law ; and the Robes of the Justices and Serjeants shall be of Scarlet , with their Coifs on , as it was the Thirteenth of Eliz. and then was made Proclamation with three O Yes : And the Demandant first was solemnly demanded , and did not appear ; whereupon the Manuperors of the Champion were demanded to bring forth the Champion of the Demandant , who came into the place apparelled with red Sandals upon his black Armour , bare legged from the Knee downwards , and bare headed , and bare Arms to the Elbows , being brought in by a Knight , namely Sir Ierom Bowes , who carried a red Battoon of an ell long , tipped with horn , and a Yeoman carrying the Target made of double Leather ; and they were brought in at the North side of the Lists , and went about the sides of the Lists until they came to the midst of the Lists , and then came towards the Barr , before the Justices , with three solemn Congies ; and there was he made to stand on the South side of the place , being the right side of the Court : And after that the other Champion was brought in in like manner , at the South side of the Lists , with like Congies , by the hands of Sir Henry Chequie Kt. &c. and was placed on the North side of the Barr , and two Serjeants , being of the Counsel of each part , in the midst between them . This done , the Demandant was solemnly called again , and appeared not , but made default . Bowham , Serjeant for the Tenant , prayed the Court to record the Nonsuit , quod factum fuit . And then Dyer Chief Justice , reciting the Writ and Content , and Issue joyned upon the Battel , and the other of the Champions to perform it , and the prefiction of this day and place , did give final Judgment against the Demandant , and that the Tenant should have the Land to him , and to his Heirs for ever ; and the Demandant and his Pledges de prosequendo in misericordia Reginae : And afterwards solemn Proclamation was made that the Champions , and all others there present ( which were by estimation above Four thousand persons ) might depart every man in the peace of God and the Queen , & sic fecerunt cum magno clamore , vivat Regina . Also if false Judgment be given in the Country , which is the Sheriffs Court , then the Writ shall be thus ; Henricus , &c. Vicecomiti Lincoln . salutem ; Si A. fecerit , &c. tum in pleno Comitatu tuo per breve nostrum de recto inter Iohannem L. petentem , & Will. B. tenentem de uno messuagio & centum acris terrae cum pertinentiis in C. unde idem I. L. queritur falsum sibi factum fuisse Iudicium in eodem , & Record . illud habeas coram Iusticiariis Iuris apud Westminsterium tali die sub sigillo tuo , & per quatuor legales Milites ejusdem comitatus , & illos qui Recordo illi interfuerunt , & summoneas per bonos summonitores praedictum B. quod tunc sit ibi auditurus Recordum illud , & habeas ibi sua nomina quatuor militum & hoc breve . Fitz. Nat. Brev. itidem E. And those four must be Knights indeed . Also the Justices upon consideration of the usual words in every Writ of Venire Facias , Coram &c. Duodecim tum Milites quam alios liberos & legales homines , &c. say that these words [ tum Milites ] were not at the first put into the Writ without effect , Plowden 117. b. For it seemeth that in diebus illis , some Knights were returned upon every Venire Facias . By the Statute of Magna Charta , cap. 12. It is ordained that Assizes of Novel Disseison and Mortdancester should not be taken any where , but within the Countries where they happen , by the Justices of Assize , and the Knights of the Shire ; vide Westminster 2. chap. 30. And by the Seven and twentieth of Edward the First , chap. 30. de finibus levandis , amongst other things it is enacted , That for the utility of the Realm , and the more assured conservation of the Peace , the Justices assigned to take Assizes in all Shires , where they take Assizes as it is ordained , immediately after the Assizes taken in the Shires shall remain both together if they be Lay ; and if one of them be a Clerk , then one of the most discreet Knights of the Shire being associated unto him that is a Lay-man , by our Writ shall deliver the Goals of the Shires , as well within the Liberties as without , of all manner of Prisoners , after the form of the Goal Delivery of those Shires be●ore time used . Also in the Statute of Westminster 21. cap. 38. de non ponendis in Assizis & Iuratis , it is provided , that the said Statute shall not extend to Grand Assizes , in which it behoveth many times Knights to pass , not resident in the County , for the scarcity of Knights , so that they have Lands in the Shire . And by the Law Knights having Land may be returned upon Juries in ordinary Trials between party and party , as other Freeholders may be . And therefore in a Challenge to the great Assize under Edward the Third , one was challenged pur ceo qu'il fait abaner ; or as the Abridgment hath it , a Baronet ; but it was not allowed : and the Reason is given ; Car s'il soit à Baner , & ne tient pas per Baronie il serra en l'assise . Of the double parity of England , that is , of Barons , and all Dignities above them , being Peers of the Realm , and all other under them , are Peers amongst themselves ; for notwithstanding that Dignity of Knighthood , they are reckoned amongst the Commons . And we daily see that Knights do serve in Parliament as Members of the Commonalty . Nevertheless the Sheriff in his discretion will not impannel Knights , but in special and great Causes : As in Cases of Indictments of a Peer of the Realm , they are to be enquired and found by Knights and Esquires , though their Trial shall be only by their Peers . And in 38 Hen. 8. Henry Howard Earl of Surrey , Son and Heir apparent of Thomas Duke of Norfolk , was attainted of High Treason , and was tried also by Knights , Esquires , and Gentlemen , and not by Lords or Peers of the Realm , because he was not of that Dignity by Creation . Since the use of making every Earl first a Baron of some place ( which began , as most Writers treat , about the time of Henry the Eighth ) it hath been a Custome to style their Heirs apparent Lords and Barons , with the Title of their Father's Barony ( when Viscounts , or Baron's Heirs apparent are only styled Esquires ; ) but this is only a piece of Civility , and of meer fashion ; yet it is allowed of in Heraldry , with whom the Rule is , That the eldest Son of every one of a created Degree is as of the next Degree under him , which may be applied to Dukes , Earls , and the like : But in Legal Proceedings they enjoy no such matter , nor have by their being Heirs Apparent any Prerogative of the greater Nobillty . And in case where a Peer of the Realm is party Plaintiff or Defendant in any Action or Suit , if the Sheriff do not return one Knight at the least to be of the Jury , the said Noble Person may Challenge , and for that only cause quash the whole pannel . By the Statute of Carlisle 15 Edw. 2. it was enacted , That he who levied a Fine should appear in proper person , to the intent that his Age , Idiocy , or other defect might be discovered by the Judges . Nevertheless upon Impotency , whereby he cannot come in Court , two , or one of the Justices , by the consent of the rest of the Justices , shall go unto him and take his Recognizance ; and if but one of them go , he shall take a Knight with him , and shall certifie it in the Bench of Record , to the intent that all things incident to the fine be examined by them , and then the fine may be levied . But after this good Statute , a worse Custom and Use hath come in place : For by a Dedimus potestatem out of Chancery to one Knight , and to a Justice of the Peace of the County in such cases , is procured and directed to a Knight and two others , who perhaps be neither Knights nor Justices , but perhaps men of small estimation , and unto two or three of them , without saying Quorum the Knight shall be one ; and two of them without the Knight have taken the Recognizance of the Fine , ibid. 101. b. But great prejudice this practise of omitting the interposing of the usual Service of Knights in this behalf hath been to many , and scandalous to the Law of the Land , they sometimes taking Recognizances of a Fine from a Feme Covert , as if she were sole , and many times acknowledged by Justices . If a Tenant do lay an Essoin de morbo lecti , he may have a Writ out of the Chancery to warrant it , by which it shall be commanded to four Knights to view him ; and if they see him sick , then they are to give him day , to the end of a year and a day . Note the Register , fol. 177. b. Quod Coronator non elegatur nisi sit miles in , &c. juxta formam Statuti Westm. 1. cap. 10. It is a received Opinion , that Knights are excused from attendance at Leets , and Britton 29. & 36. is cited to prove it . And by a large understanding of the intent and meaning of the Statute of Marlbridge , chap. 10. For the ancient Common Law had such respect to the Degree of Knighthood , that they , nor their eldest Sons , were compelled to find Pledges in the Leet or Law-days ; for the Statute of Marlbridge aforesaid was not Introductiva novae Legis , for it was before the Conquest . And the Common Law is not by this Statute abridged . And by the Book called the Mirror of Iustice , mentioned in the Preface to Coke's ninth part , it is said that Knights are excepted : And so it appears that the practice was as well before , as immediately after the making of that Statute of Marlbridge ; and Interpretatio Practica is a principal way and form of Interpretation of Laws . The Lord Chancellor's Speech , in the Case of Postnati , fol. 58. And in Divinity , Praxis sanctorum est interpretatio praeceptorum , ibid. 66. But a Knight , and all Superiors and Inferiors , are bound by Law to attend the County or Sheriffs Court wherein he dwelleth , and at his peril to take notice of the proceedings thereof : For if a Man be Outlawed of Felony at a County Court , and one of the same County not knowing of the Felony doth receive him , he is Accessory . Also when the King doth Summon his Parliament , Writs shall be sent to the Sheriff to make choice of Knights of every Shire in this form ; Rex Vicecom . N. Salutem , quia de avisamento & asse●su nostri Concilii , pro quibusdam arduis & urgentibus negotiis nos , statum , & defensionem Regni nostri Angliae , & Ecclesiae Anglicanae concernentibus quoddam Parliamentum nostrum apud Civitatem nostram Westm. duodecimo die Novembris proxime futuro teneri ordinavimus , & ibidem cum Praelatis magnatibus , & proceribus dicti Regni nostri colloquium habere & tractare , tibi praecipimus firmiter injungentes , quod facta Proclamatione in prox . Comit. tuo post receptionem hujus brevis nostri tenendi die , & loco praed . duos Milites gladiis cinctos Magisidouers & Discretos Com. praed . &c. & electionem & partes sub sigillo tuo , & sub sigillis eorum qui electioni illi interfuerunt nobis in Cancellaria nostra ad dictum diem , & locum certifices indilate . See the Statute 23 Hen. 6. cap. 15. where amongst other things it is enacted , That the Knights of the Shires for Parliaments hereafter to be chosen , shall be notable Knights of the same Counties for the which they shall be chosen , or else such notable Esquires or Gentlemen being of the same Counties , as shall be able to be Knights . Peers of the Realm are by intendment of Law sufficient of Freehold ; and that is one of the Reasons wherefore no Capias or Exigit lieth● against them for Debt or Trespass . But the Law hath not that Opinion of the Knights sufficiency of Freehold : for he may be a Knight without Land ; therefore , and then he is not to be returned of any Jury or Inquest , howsoever he may be worthy and sufficient to serve the Commonwealth in Marshal Affairs . The Wives and Widows of Knights in Legal Proceedings , and in Courts of Justice , have not the Title of Lady , as the Wives or Widows of Noblemen have ; yet by the Courtesie of England that Title is given them . And if in any action they be not called Ladies , for that cause the Writ shall not abate for that Surplusage , because Domina is general to Women , as Domini to Men. So where Women after Fourteen years of Age are called Dominae for Ladies or Dames ; and with us anciently marriageable Women were called Dominae ; and in our old English Leets , Dames . First , Dominae is often used for Women generally , as a special Honour for that Sex , being not out of fashion at this day ; nor with the French ; as also amongst the Italians , Domina for them is familiar . But if she be named Comitessa or Baronessa , whereas she is no Countess or Baroness in Law , then without question the naming of her so shall abate the Writ . By the Statute of Magna Charta , chap. 21. Knights are freed from Cart-taking , that no Demesne Cart of them shall be taken . By the Statute 1 Iacobi , cap. 27. it seemeth that Knights Sons may keep Greyhounds , and Setting-Dogs , and Nets to take Pheasants and Partridges in , though they cannot expend Ten pounds per Annum , nor be worth Two hundred pounds ; for by the express words of the Statute , all the Sons of Knights are excepted . Observations concerning Knights Batchelors . A Baronet cannot claim the Priviledge that Knights have from Cart-taking by Magna Charta 23. A Baronet's Son cannot keep a Grey-hound , &c. because he is not within the Statute of 1 Iac. 27. unless he hath Ten pounds per Annum , tamen qu●re ; See the said Statute , and Statute 22 & 23 Car. 2. Quaere whether the Baronets Addition doth abate any Action . If one be Knighted in the life time of his Father , it frees him from Wardship ; but contra of a Baronet . Knights are excused from attendance at Leets , which Baronets are not . Note , That by the Statute 12 Car. 2. chap. 24. the Court of Wards , Tenures in Capite , Liveries , Ouster le maines , and other dependance upon the Court is taken away ; and then was repealed the Statute 32 Hen. 8. chap. 6. 33 Car. 22. A Knight Batchelor is a Title ( as before noted ) borrowed from Horsmanship , and therefore ought to be represented by the Ef●igies of a Captain of a Troop of Horse . I shall here set down the manner of making Knights about the year of Christ 500 , near which time King Arthur Reigned in England , as I find it in Sir William Segar's Book of Honour Military and Civil , page 53. where he saith , That a Prince being minded to make a Knight , commanded a Stage or Scaffold to be erected in some Cathedral Church in his Kingdom , or some spacious place near unto it , to which place the Gentleman was brought to receive that Honour ; and being come , was forthwith placed on a silver Chair , adorned with green Silk . Then it was demanded of him if he were of a healthy Body , and able to undergo the Travel required in a Souldier ; also whether he were a man of honest conversation , and what credible Witnesses he could produce to affirm the same . Then the Bishop or chief Prelate of the Church took the Bible , and holding it open before the Knight in presence of the King and all others , spake these words ; Sir , you that desire to receive the Order of Knighthood , swear before God , and by this Holy Book , that you shall not fight against this mighty and excellent Prince that now bestoweth the Order of Knighthood upon you , unless you shall be commanded so to do in the service of your own King ; for in that case , having first yielded up the Collar , Device , and other Ensigns of Honour now received , it shall be lawful for you to serve against him , without reproach or offence to all other Companions in Arms. But otherwise doing you shall incur Infamy , and being taken in War , shall be subject to the pains of death : You shall also swear with all your force and power to maintain and defend all Ladies , Gentlewomen , Widows , Orphans , and distressed Women ; and you shall shun no adventure of your person in any War wherein you shall happen to be . My Author further saith , That this Oath being taken , two of the chief Lords led him to the King , who presently drew forth his Sword , and laid it upon his Head , saying , God and St. George ( or what other Saint the King pleaseth to name ) make thee a good Knight . Then came to the Knight seven Noble Ladies attired in white , and begirt a Sword unto his side ; which being done , four Honourable Knights put on his Spurs . These Ceremonies being past , the Queen took him by the right Arm , and a Dutchess by the left , and led him to a rich Seat placed on an Ascent , where they seated him , the King sitting on his right hand , and the Queen on his left ; then the Lords and Ladies also sate down upon other Seats three Descents under the King : And being all thus seated , they were entertained with a Delicate Banquet or Collation , and so the Ceremony ended . Of Degrading of Knights . DEgrading of Knights is not very customary , Examples being seldom found , it being used only for great and notable Facts and Offences against Loyalty and Honour ; as absenting themselves dishonourably from their King's Service ; for leaving their Colours , and flying to the Enemy ; for betraying Castles , Forts , and the like hainous Crimes . The manner of Degrading a Knight hath been as followeth : When a Knight had been found thus disloyal or corrupt , he was to be apprehended , and armed Cap-a-pe , as if he was going to the Wars , was to be placed upon a high Scaffold made for that purpose in the Church ; and after the Priest had sung some Funeral Psalms , as are used at Burials , as though he had been dead , first they take of his Helmet to shew his face , and so by Degrees his whole Armour : then the Heralds proclaiming him a disloyal Miscreant , with many other Ceremonies to declare him Ignoble , he was thrown down the Stage with a Rope ; and this was done about the time of King Arthur , as is affirmed by Mills , fol. 84. Also about the Degrading of Knights these things have also been used ; as the reversing their Coat of Arms ; by seizing of their Equipage ( except one Horse ) ne qui dignitate f●ctus est eques cogatur pedes incedere ; b● cutting of the Spurs from their Heels , and by taking away their Sword and breaking it . But of late the Martial Law is usually put in Execution , both in our Civil Wars , as in France , and elsewhere ; that is , to dispatch such trayterous persons by a File of Musquetiers . KNIGHTS OF THE Round Table . CHAP. XXII . THE Founder of this ancient Order of Knighthood was Arthur King of the Britains , who reigned about the year of Christ 516. whose Valour was so great and admirable , that many now living do believe the same rather fabulous than real . This Noble King having , as Sir William Segar noteth , driven out of England the Saxons , conquered Norway , Scotland , and the greatest part of France ( where at Paris he was crowned ) and returning home , lived in such great Renown , that many Princes and worthy Knights came from all Parts to his Court to give Evidence of their Valour in the Exercise of Arms. Upon this he erected a Fraternity of Knights , which consisted ( as some say ) of Four and twenty ; others , a greater Number ; amongst whom he himself was Chief : And for the avoiding of Controversies for taking place when they met together , he caused a Round Table to be made , from whence they took their Name ; which said Table ( if you will believe the Inhabitants of Winchester ) hangs up in their Castle , where they used to meet ; and the time of their meeting was at Whitsontide . Into this Society none were admitted , whether Britains or Strangers , but such as did make sufficient proof of their Prowess and Dexterity in Arms , and such as were Renowned for their Vertue and Valour . The Articles which they vowed to keep , were ; To be always well armed , both for Horse or Foot Service , either by Land or Sea ; and to be always ready to assail Tyrants and Oppressors ; To protect and defend Widows , Maidens , and Children ; and to relieve all that are in necessity : To maintain the Christian Faith , contribute their Aid to Holy Church , and to protect Pilgrims : To advance Honour , and suppress Vice : To bury Souldiers that wanted Sepulchres : To ransom Captives , deliver Prisoners , and administer to the cure of wounded Souldiers , hurt in the Service of their Country : To Record all Noble Enterprizes , to the end that the Fame thereof may ever live to their Honour , and the Renown of the Noble Order . That upon any complaint made to the King of Injury or Oppression , one of these Knights , whom the King should appoint , was to Revenge the same . If any Foreign Knight came to Court , with desire to shew his Prowess , these Knights ought to be ready in Arms to answer him . If any Lady , Gentlewoman , or other oppressed or injured person , did present a Petition declaring the same , whether the Injury was done here or beyond Sea , he or she should be graciously heard , and without delay one or more Knights should be sent to make Revenge : And that every Knight , for the advancement of Chivalry , should be ready to inform young Lords and Gentlemen in the Orders and Exercises of Arms. For what I can find , there was no Robe or Habit prescribed unto these Knights ; nor can I find with what Ceremony they were made ; neither what Officers did belong unto the said Order , except a Register to record all their Noble Enterprizes . Not to pass over this Noble Arthur , give me leave to repeat what I find mentioned of him by Sir William Segar in the said Chapter . This valiant Prince , not confining himself to the narrow limits of his own Kingdom , left the Government thereof to the management of his Cosin Mordred , and began his Journey , or rather Conquest ( for in all places he found Fortune to favour him ) And after his many Victories gained of the Saxons , Scots , Norwegians , Romans , Saracens , and French ; in the end , being laden with Honour , he returned into England , but found Mordred a Traitor , as usurping the Government , and obstructing his Landing : But all that he could do was in vain ; for being landed , he fled to London , but the Citizens refusing to give him Entrance , he went into Cornwall , where King Arthur gave him Battel , which proved unfortunate to them both , for Mordred was slain by King Arthur , who was also desperately wounded ; and after this wound ( as some say ) he was never found alive or dead , which made the Poets to feign that he was taken up into the Firmament , and there remaineth a Star amongst the Nine Worthies : Which phansie is founded upon the Prophesie of old Merlin , which was his Counsel , and esteemed as a Prophet ; who for many years before affirmed , That King Arthur , after a certain time , should resuscitate and come unto Carlion , to restore the Round Table . He wrote this Epitaph : Hic jacet Arturus , Rex quondam , rexque futurus . According to Andrew Favin , there was an Order of Knighthood called Knights of St. Thomas , which was instituted by King Richard the First , after the surprisal of the City of Acon , and consisted of all English men . Their Patron was St. Thomas Becket ; their Garment was white ; and their Ensign was a red Cross charged in the midst with a white Escallop . But A. Mendo believeth that these Knights were rather some of those which joyned themselves with the Knights Hospitallers , for that they wore the same Habit , followed the same Rule , and observed the same Customes as did the Knights of St. Iohn of Acon . KNIGHTS OF THE THISTLE , OR OF St. Andrew in Scotland . CHAP. XXIII . HVNGVS , King of the Picts , the Night before the Battel that was fought betwixt him and Athelstan King of England , saw in the Skie a bright Cross in fashion of that whereon St. Andrew suffered Martyrdom ; and the day proving successful unto Hungus , in memorial of the said Apparition , which did presage so happy an Omen , the Picts and Scots have ever since bore in their Ensigns and Banners the Figure of the said Cross , which is in fashion of a Saltier . And from hence 't is believed that this Order took its rise , which was about the year of our Lord 810. For King Hungus and Achains ( Confederates against Athalstan ) went bare-footed ( in a devote way ) to the Kirk of St. Andrew , to return thanks to God and his Apostles for their Victory ; vowing for themselves and their posterity , ever to use the said Cross in their Ensigns in any warlike Expedition . The principal Ensign of this Order is a golden Collar composed of Thistles , intermixed with Annulets of Gold , to which hangs the figure of St. Andrew with his Cross , and this Epigraph , Nemo me impune lacessit . But for their common Ensign they wore a green Ribon , to which hung a golden Thistle crowned with an Imperial Crown , within a Circle of Gold , with the said Epigraph . Their grand meeting was annually on St. Andrews day , in the Church of the Town so called ; and during the Solemnity of the Feast , these Knights ( which were in number Thirteen , in allusion to our Saviour and the Twelve Apostles ) were richly apparelled , and in their Parliament Robes , having embroidered on their left Shoulders St. Andrews Cross within a blew Rundle , and in the Center of the said Cross was a Crown composed of Golden Flower de lis . Having thus treated of the several Degrees of Knighthood which are or have been used amongst us : In the next place I shall give the Reader an account of divers Degrees of Knighthood in other Kingdoms , although many of them are now Extinct . ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD Which are or were Instituted in PALESTINE AND OTHER Parts of ASIA . CHAP. XXIV . Knights of the Holy Sepulchre in Ierusalem . THIS Order of Knighthood is held to be the most ancient of all those Orders that took their beginning in the Holy Land ; and is said to be instituted about the time that the Temple of Ierusalem was regained from the Sarazens , which was in Anno 1099. Some Authors say , That Philip King of France was the first Instituter of this Order ; but Favin saith that it was Baldwin the first King of Ierusalem , who made the Regular Canons ( which then resided in a Convent near adjoyning to the said Sepulchre ) Knights of the said Order , whose chief Duty was to guard the Holy Sepulchre ; to relieve and protect Pilgrims ; to fight against the Sarazens and Infidels ; and to hear Mass every day . The Armorial Ensign belonging unto them was two red Crosses united into one . When the Christians were expelled the Holy Land , these Knights settled themselves at Perugia in Italy : But by the Bulls of Pope Innocent the Eighth , Anno 1484. they and all their Goods were annexed and joyned to the Knights Hospitallers , then residing at Rhodes . Knights Hospitallers of St. John Baptist in Jerusalem , called Knights of the Rhodes , now of Malta . SOmewhat before the Christians took the City of Ierusalem from the Sarazens , certain Christian Merchants of Naples , who traded to these parts , obtained leave from the Caliph of Egypt ( who had then the Government thereof ) to dwell near the Sepulchre of Christ , and to erect a small House for the entertainment of themselves and Pilgrims , and called it The Hospital of Christians ; together with a small Oratory dedicated to the blessed Virgin Mary . After that the number of Christians increasing , they built another House for Women , and dedicated it to St. Mary Magdalen ; and at length they built a more large House , which they dedicated to St. Iohn Baptist , the others being too small for the entertainment of Strangers that thither came for Devotion , and here they entertained and cured the diseased amongst them . And for their Religion , Charity , and Hospitality they began to become eminent ; and having took St. Iohn Baptist for their Patron , they obtained the title or name of Brethren Hospitallers of St. John Baptist of Jerusalem : Then received they the regular Habit of black , with a white Cross on the Garment near their left Shoulder , and vowed Obedience , Poverty , and Chastity . This Order is said to be first instituted in Anno 1099. by one Gerard of the Province of Tholouse , a man of a holy life , and had large priviledges conferred upon them by King Baldwin the first , who created them Knights , and permitted them to use Arms , and to fight against the Sarazens and Infidels for the Defence of the Christian Faith , and to be Guardians of the Holy Sepulchre . At this time they acknowledged their Obedience to the Patriarch of Ierusalem ; but growing in wealth , they obtained the favour of the Pope to be absolved from their Obedience , and was by Pope Adrian the fourth received under the protection of the Papal See. Gerard being dead , they elected one Raimond for their Rector or great Master , to whom authority was given that he should govern and command all Knights of this Order wheresoever dispersed . This Gerard , after he had digested and enlarged their Laws and Institutions , divided that whole Body into three Classes ; to wit , Knights , Ecclesiasticks , and Servants : And since which time the succeeding Great Masters have much added to their Priviledges and Dignities ; and his Title is now The Illustrious Prince of Malta and Goza . Saladine having made himself Master of Ierusalem , these Knights retired to the City of Acres , which being also taken , they seized upon the Isle of Rhodes , where they continued as Masters , until forced thence by Solyman the Great in Anno 1522. After which they betook themselves to the Isle of Malta , which with Tripoli and Goza were granted to them by the Emperour Charles the ●ifth , Anno 1530. and the same year was confirmed to them by Pope Clement the Seventh : and in this Isle they yet continue , and are as a Bulwark to that part of Christendom . Knights Templars . ABout the year 1118. Hugo de Paganes , Godfrey de St. Omer , with seven other Gentlemen , out of Devotion went into the Holy Land , where they determined to erect , and enter into a Brotherhood ; and being come to Ierusalem , they consulted what they should do ( though to the hazard of their Lives ) that should be a service acceptable to God , and praiseworthy of men : And being informed that in the Town of Zaffo there resided many Thieves that used to rob the Pilgrims that resorted to the Holy Sepulchre , they resolved to make the passage more free by destroying or dispersing these Robbers . And for the encouragement of these Gentlemen in so good an undertaking , the King assigned them lodgings in his Palace adjoyning to Solomon's Temple , from which place they were called Knights Templars . And the King and Patriarch finding their Actions very successful , furnished them with many necessary Provisions : And although their charitable Service made them acceptable unto all , yet for the first Nine years they were in so great a strait , that they were forced to take the Charity of well disposed people ; however there resorted unto them many Christians , so that their number was much encreased . And there being all this while no Habit or Order assigned them , Pope Honorius , at the request of Stephen Patriarch of Ierusalem , prescribed unto them an Order of Life , whereby they were to wear a white Garment ; and Pope Eugenius added thereto a red Cross ; and in the presence of the said Patriarch they made their Vows of Obedience , Poverty , and Chastity , and to live under the Rule of Regular Canons of St. Augustine . Being thus entred into an Order , they elected an Head or Great Master ; and in process of time , through the daily encrease of their number , and their famous enterprizes , not only for securing the passages , but also for waging War both by Sea and Land against the Infidels , they became highly favoured of the Christian Princes , who assigned to them great Revenues to be spent in God's Service ; and in process of time they became exceeding wealthy and powerful , so that they grew proud , and withdrew themselves from the Obedience of the Patriarch of Ierusalem , and joyned with the Pope . But in the end they found not the favour from the Pope as they expected ; for by him , or through his consent , upon some infamous crimes charged against them , their Lands and Possessions were seized upon , and otherways disposed of , their Order suppressed , and they themselves imprisoned , condemned , and cruelly executed ; but according to the Opinion of many Authors , they were unjustly accused by subornation of Witnesses , meerly to gain their Revenues , which according to Dr. Heylin , were exceeding great , having no less than Sixteen thousand Lordships in Europe . Knights of St. Lazarus . THis Order at the first Institution was only a Brotherhood of Religious Monks , and became an Order of Knighthood in or about the time of St. Basil , being first instituted upon a most charitable account , to wit , to take care of persons infected with the Leprosie ( which was a Disease very frequent in the Eastern parts ) by reason of which they were separated from the Society of men ; and had assigned to them a famous Hospital in Ierusalem , called St. Lazarus , for the reception of Lepers . And through the incursion of the Sarazens and Barbarians in these parts , this Order was ( as it were ) extinguished ; but when the Latin Princes joyned together in a Holy League to expel them the Holy Land , these Religious Men entred into a Martial Discipline , and performed great Service , insomuch that they gained great fame and esteem of Baldwin the second King of Ierusalem , in whose time this Order much flourished under the Government of a Great Master : And about the year 1150. they made their Vows of Obedience , Poverty , and Chastity before William Patriarch of Ierusalem , and submitted themselves to the Order of St. Benedict : They also constituted several Orders to be observed amongst them ; viz. to wear a green Cross ; and that all before they entred into this Knighthood , should prove themselves born in Wedlock of Christian Parents , and to be a Gentleman by the Fathers and Mothers side ; also to be of an unblameable life and conversation , and to perform daily certain Religious Ceremonies . Knights of St. Bass. THese Knights were founded under the Rule of St. Basil , and were also called Knights of St. Mary . Their Garment was skie colour , with a gold Cross , which they wore before their breast , having in the midst thereof the picture of St. Basil , their Patron , and were Officers and Servants to the Kings of Armenia . Knights of St. Katharine at Mount Sinai . THE reason of the Institution of these Knights ( which was about the year of Christ 1063. ) was to guard and defend the Sepulchre of St. Katharine their Patron ( whose Body is said to be buried in Mount Sinai , near to which place a Monastery was erected and dedicated to her Name ) to secure the passage for Travellers who came thither for Devotion sake , and to entertain them during their abode . They lived under the Rule of St. Basil the Great , vowed Obedience to the Abbot of this Monastery , and wore a white Garment . But when the Turks became Masters of these parts , this Order of Knighthood suffered very much ; notwithstanding , some Remains of the Order doth yet continue . Knights of the Martyrs in Palestine . THese Knights followed the Rule of St Basil , and wore on their Garments a red Cross , in the midst whereof ( within a Circle ) was the Figures of Cosmas and Damianus , their Saints and Patrons , who were martyred . Their Hospital or place of abode bore the name of their Saints ; where they exercised all Acts of Charity to sick Strangers and people in necessity ; to redeem Captives taken by the Sarazens , and to bury the Dead . ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD IN SPAIN . Knights of the Oak in Navarr . THE Inhabitants of the Kingdom of Navarr being almost over-run by the Moors , notwithstanding their great Army raised to oppose them , for that they wanted an experienced General to command them ; at length one Don Garcia Ximenes ( who had betook himself to a religious and solitary Life ) was perswaded to take upon him that Command , which was about the year of Christ 722. And as he was marching out of the City to fight the Moors , there appeared to him from the top of an Oaken Tree the sign of the Cross , which was adored by an innumerable quantity of Angels . In this Battel he gained so signal a Victory , that the people elected him their King ; and shortly after he instituted this Order of Knighthood , investing therewith the Nobles , and persons of Renown in his Kingdom , whom he obliged to defend the Christian Faith , and to own Obedience to him and his Successors , Kings of Navarr . The Habit that he assigned them was a white Garment , having thereon a plain red Cross set on the top of an Oaken Tree in its Verdure . Knights of the Lilly in Navarr . GRacius King of Navarr , the sixth of that Name , lying in a languishing and sick Condition , sent to St. Saviour de Lyra , and other places of Devotion , to the end that prayers might be made for his Recovery : In which time in the City of Naiera ( where he kept usually his Court ) there was found the Image of our Virgin Mary issuing out of a Lilly , holding her Son betwixt her Arms , and suddenly after ( if you will believe the Story ) the King not only recovered his health , but divers other Miracles were done on diseased people in that place ; and in honour whereof the King ( in Anno 1048. ) erected this Order , which consisted of Eight and thirty , of which himself was Sovereign , as were his Successors to be after him . The Badge which these Knights daily wore on their Breasts was a Lilly embroidered in Silver ; and on Festival days they wore a double Chain of Gold interlaced with Letters M. after the manner of a Gothish Letter , with an enamelled Lilly in an Oval Medal hanging at it ; and their Habit was white . Knights of the Band. THIS Order was first erected by Alphonso King of Spain , in Anno 1368. and for this reason ; The King considering that he had many Enemies to deal with , for his better security , thought it convenient to institute an Order of Knights , making himself Master thereof , which he did a little before his Coronation in the City of Burgos in great Solemnity ; the whole Night being spent in the Monastery of St. Mary Royal in watching and prayer , and the day following , after Mass , they were invested with a red Ribon of about three Inches broad , which went cross their left Shoulders like our Knights of the Bath , being the Badge from whence these Knights took their Name . Their Articles are at large set down by Sir William Segar , which being too many to repeat , are here omitted . Knights of the Dove in Castile . THIS Order , according to Favin , was first instituted by Iohn the first , King of Castile , about the year 1379. in the City of Segovia . The Collar of this Order was composed of peeces which represented the figure of the Sun in his Glory , to which hung a golden Dove enamelled white , and encircled with rayes : But the King dying the same year , and before it was well received , it became of no great esteem . Ordo de la Scama in Castile . JOHN the second , King of Castile , for the stirring up his Nobles to assist him in his Wars against the Moors , in Anno 1420. did erect this order , which took so good effect , that in a short time the Moors were subdued . Their Ensign , according to Ios. Micheli , was a Cross composed of Scales of F●shes , from which it seemeth to have took its Name ; for Scama in the Spanish signifies the Scale of a Fish. These Knights were obliged to fight against the Moors , to accompany the King in the Wars , and to die in the defence of the Christian Religion . Their Rules and Statutes for their Government were ordained by the said King , upon whose death this Order lost much of its splendor . Knights of the Lilly in Aragon . THIS Order was erected by Ferdinand King of Aragon , in Anno 1403. and dedicated to the honour of the blessed Virgin , in token of a signal Victory which this King obtained against the Moors . The Collar was composed of Bough-pots fill'd with white Lillies , interlaced with Griffons . Knights of Mount-joy . THIS Order was first instituted in the Holy Land , for the securing these parts against the Moors and Sarazens , and lay in Garison in a Castle built on the point of a Mountain near Ierusalem : And after the loss of the Holy Land , these Knights retired into Spain , and performed good Service against the Moors ; but in process of time this Order fell to decay , and were incorporated into the Order of Calatrava . Their Habit was a red short Mantle ; and on their Breasts they wore a white Star with five Rayes . They observed the Rule of St. Benedict ; which afterwards was changed to that of St. Augustine , and vowed Poverty , Chastity , and Obedience . Knights of Acon , or Acres . IN the City of Acon these Knights resided , where they used all Duties of Charity to Pilgrims that went to the Holy Land. They assumed the exercise of Arms in imitation of the Knights Hospitallers : They followed the Rule of St. Augustine , and wore a black Garment , whereon was a white Cross Pattee ; but Ios. Micheli Marquez saith it was a red Cross ; and in the midst thereof stood the figures of St. Iohn and St. Thomas . After the City of Acon was taken , they removed into Spain , where they flourished , receiving great favour from Alphonsus the Astrologer , K. of Castile ; but after his death by little and little they decayed , and in the end were united to the Knights Hospitallers . Knights of St. James in Galicia . THIS Order of Knighthood ( called by the Spaniards Cavalieri di san Iago ) is of great esteem amongst them ; and was first erected upon this occasion : When the Arabians had almost subdued the Country , the remainder of the Spanish people refusing to live under the Obedience of so barbarous a Nation , retired unto the Mountains of Asturia , where they settled a Government ; and after their abode there some few years certain Nobles or Gentlemen of great quality ( to the number of Thirteen ) upon a serious consultation to regain their Country , resolved to enter into a Fraternity , and to begin a War against the Moors and Barbarians . The Ensign which they wore was a red Cross in form of a Sword , with an Escallop Shell on it , in imitation of the Badge of the Pilgrims that go to Ierusalem to the Sepulchre of St. Iames the Apostle . They elected one chief Governour , who was called Great Master , who with the Thirteen other Knights had power to choose or remove any Knight at their discretion ; and to make Statutes and Orders for the well Government of the said Society at their Day of Meeting ( which is Annually ) on the Feast day of All-Saints in great State , having large Revenues to support their Grandure ; this Order being esteemed the chiefest in Spain . Knights of St. Saviour in Aragon . DON Alphonso , for his better enabling to force the Moors out of Aragon ( about the year of our Lord 1118. ) did erect this Order , electing a certain number , which he chose out of those Spanish and French Nobles , that assisted him in his Wars against the Moors ; which Honour engaged them to pursue the War against them the more vigorously . The Moors being subdued , King Alphonso established these Knights in the place of the Knights Templars in Montreal , and had a rule of living somewhat conformable unto them ( save only to marry ) and were obliged to support and defend the Holy Church , and Christian Faith against the Moors . Their Habit was a white Mantle , and on their Breast they wore a red Cross. But when the Moors were expelled ( being the chief end for which they were instituted ) these Knights were laid aside , or at leastwise not regarded , and their Revenues joyned to the Crown . Knights of St. Julian de Pereyro , or of Alcantara . THese Knights take their name from the place of their Institution , viz. the City of Alcantara in Castiglia ( seated on the Tago ) where they had a stately Church , and were richly endowed : They had many Priviledges and Orders observed amongst them ; their Habit was a black Garment , having on the Breast a green Cross ; and their first great Master was Ferdinando the Second , King of Leon and Galicia , about the year of our Lord 1176. Knights of Calatrava in Castile . THIS ancient Order was first instituted by Don Sanchio the third , King of Toledo , about the year of Christ 1158. and took its Name from the Castle Calatrava , which is a Frontire both of Toledo and Castile ; which place the Moors took upon their Victory they obtained against Don Rodrigro King of Spain , in Anno 714. but after above Four hundred years continuance they were forced thence , and the place given to the Knights Templars by Don Alphonso Emperor of Spain , to be maintained as a Garison against the Incursion of the Moors ; but they not being able to maintain and defend it , withdrew their Garison ; upon which , lest the Moors should become Masters of it again , the King by his Charter gave the said Castle and Village to one Don Raymund , formerly a Knight of great Fame , and then Abbot of St. Mary de Fitero , who fortified it , and began the said Order of Knighthood , which flourished very much , and became exceeding powerful , so that the Moors durst not make any further Attempt . The Habit that they wore was a black Garment , with a red Cross on their Breast , and had many great Priviledges , and as great Possessions in divers places of Spain . Knights of Truxillo , or Trugillo . THIS Order took its appellation from the City of Trugillo , seated in Estremadura in Spain ; but as for the time of its Institution Writers are silent in ; but certain it is , they were in being in the year of our Lord 1227. for one Don Arias Perez Dallego , then Master of the Order , took this City from the Moors , and there settled a Brotherhood of Knights and Priests , who lived after the manner of a Convent , but what was their Badge or Habit , and what Orders were observed amongst them , is also not certainly known . Knights of our Lady , and of St George of Montesa in Valencia THese Knights took their rise from the dissolution of the Knights Templars in Valencia , and were instituted by Iames the Second , King of Aragon and Valencia , in Anno 1317. for the better defence of his Kingdoms against the Inroads of the Moors ; but were subject to those of Calatrava before spoken of . The place assigned them for their abode was at Montesa , where they had a Colledge built and dedicated to St. George by the Pope at the instance of the King. The Statutes of the Order are the same as those of Calatrava ; they vowed Conjugal Chastity ; their Habit was white , with a plain red Cross ; and their first Master was Guilielmus de Eril , a valiant Souldier . Knights of St. Mary de Merced in Aragon . JAMES the First , King of Aragon , although for his Conquests against the Moors was Surnamed the Invincible ; yet had he the ill fate to be a Prisoner to Simon Earl of Montfort in France , where he suffered many troubles , and indured great hardship , which made him throughly sensible of the Miserie 's the Christians indured under the tyranny of the Moors . Whereupon he made a Vow to the blessed Virgin Mary , that when he was freed from his Captivity , he would endeavour the Redemption of the Captive Christians : And being set at liberty , he heaped up great Sums to be imployed accordingly ; and by the advice of Raymond de Penafort his Confessor , a Dominican Frier , and Pedro Nolasco a Noble Cavalier , he founded an Order of Knights in Barcelona , called la Neuva Merced , so named by the blessed Virgin , who in a Vision appeared at one and the same time in one Night to the King , to Raymond , and Nolasco , giving this Order its Name , and directing them in the whole Institution , because of the great good which the Christian Captives should receive by this means . This Order was founded in Anno 1218. and their Feast day for the celebrating the same , was Annually on St. Laurence the Martyr in August . Their Habit was a Coat and Scapular of Ordinary white Cloth , and garnished with Ribons and Cordons , wherewith they fastned it about their Necks ; and from the upper part thereof was a Cap that covered half their Head , but the Monks wore their Coats and Scapulars much longer than the Knights . These Knights professed Conjugal Chastity , and Obedience to their Superiors . The first General or Master was Pedro Nolasco , who was sent into the Kingdom of Valencia to redeem Captives ; which Journey proved so successful , that in the space of six years he ransomed no less than Four hundred ; nor cease they to send abroad their Agents to Algier , Fess , and other places for Redemption of Christian Captives . And being an Order thus Charitable , great sums of Money are Annually collected and put into their Hands for that use ; and few die ( of any account ) in Spain , but bequeath a Legacy to this Order , insomuch that they have great Revenues . Knights of the Rosary in Toledo ● THE Country of Toledo being grievously oppressed by the Moors , Roderick Archbishop thereof , assembled together the Nobles and Chiefs of the City , and told them of the great necessity to give their assistance for the defence of the Country , and the extirpation of the Moors , which they readily imbraced , and many of the Nobles entred into this Order ; which was instituted for the defence of the Catholick Religion , to fight against the Moors , and to say continually a Rosary of the blessed Lady . They were of the Dominican Order , and their Ensign was the figure of our Lady of the Rosary upon a Cross flory , quarterly Argent and Sable . ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD IN FLANDERS . Knights of the Golden Fleece , called Toizon d'Or . THIS Order of Knighthood was instituted by Philip Duke of Burgundy , and Earl of Flanders , in Anno 1429. being moved thereto with devout Zeal to undertake the Conquest of the Holy Land : The Patron of this Order was St. Andrew : The Sovereign , he to whom the Dukedom of Burgundy doth lawfully descend . The number of these Knights at the first Election were Four and twenty besides the Sovereign ; all of Noble Blood ; which were afterwards much increased by the Emperor Charles the Fifth . Their Habit a Cassock of crimson Velvet , and over it a Mantle of the same , lined with white , which openeth on the right side , and is turned upon the left over the Shoulder , embroidered round about with a Bordure of Flames , Fusils , and Fleeces ; and a Hood of crimson Velvet on their Heads . The Collar is of Gold wrought of Flames and Fusils , with the Toizon or Figure of a Golden Fleece which Iason won at Colchos , or as some suppose , Gideon's Fleece , which signifies Fidelity or Justice uncorrupted . And this Collar or Toizon they are obliged upon a Penalty always to wear , not to make any alterations ; and to sell or exchange it is deemed most unlawful . The Sovereign hath in himself authority absolutely to give and bestow this Honour , when and to whom he pleaseth : And whosoever entreth into the said Dignity , must first renounce all other Orders of Knighthood ; nevertheless all Emperors , Kings , and Dukes are excepted , unto whom it is dispenced that they may wear the Ensigns of this Order , if they be the chief of their own Order . These , with other Statutes and Ordinances , the Knights are sworn to observe and keep . The day of their Assembly was first on St. Andrews day , which since was changed to the Second of May , and that but once in three years , unless the Sovereign otherwise pleaseth . To this Order doth belong four principal Officers ; viz. a Chancellor , a Treasurer , a Register , and a King at Arms , called Toizon d'Or . ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD IN PORTUGAL . Knights d' Avis . IN the Year of our Lord Don Alphonso Henriquez , first King of Portugal , gained from the Moors the City of Evora ; and for the fortifying and securing of this Garison , he sent thither several brave Commanders , who took upon them the Title of Knights of St. Mary of Evora , who not long after were called Knights d' Avis from a Castle of that Name , seated on the Frontiers of Portugal , which the King gave to Ferdinando de Yannes , Master of Evora , to which Castle he and his Brethren removed from Evora . The Badge of this Order is a green Cross flory , like those of Calatrava . They took upon them the Rule of St. Benedict ; and none were to be admitted into this Order , but such as were Gentlemen by the Fathers and Mothers side two Descents . Knights of the Wing of St. Michael . DON Alphonso Henriquez , King of Portugal , being sorely oppressed by Albara the Moor , King of Savil , for the freeing his Country , raised an Army ; and before he gave them Battel , commanded all his Souldiers to pray to their particular Saints for happy Deliverance ; and the King offered up his Prayers to St. Michael the Arch-angel , being the Saint he was much devoted unto . When the Armies were engaged , St. Michael ( as the Story goes ) appeared on the King's right side , and fought against the Moors , who were routed , and lost the day . And in Commemoration of this great Victory , at his return home ( which was in the Year of our Lord 1171. or thereabouts ) he instituted this Order of Knighthood , who for their Badge had a red Sword cross'd with Flowers de lis , and this Motto , Quis ut Deus . These Knights ( before their growing out of use ) were of the Cistertian Order , followed the Rule of St. Benedict ; and by their Obligation were to secure the Borders of the Countries against the Incursions of the Moors , to defend the Christian Religion , and to succour the Widows and Fatherless . Knights of St. James . THE Portugals being still oppressed by the Moors , the King Don Denys the Sixth , out of his great affection to relieve his people , did in the year of our Lord 1310. institute this Order , and by the Assistance of these Knights ( which were victorious in divers Battels ) at length he quitted his Kingdom of them ; for which signal Service they had many priviledges conferred upon them by the King , which caused them much to flourish . They profess Conjugal Chastity , Hospitality , and Obedience : Their Ensign is a red Sword , like that of St. Iames in Galicia : Their Habit is white ; and none are to be admitted until they have proved their Gentility by Blood. Knights of Christ. THE Knights Templars being dissolved , and their Estates confiscated , Don Denys King of Portugal , sent to Pope Iohn the Two and twentieth , to desire that an Order of Knights might be instituted in Castro Marin , which was a Frontier Town of the Enemy , and very commodious for the building a Fort for the resisting the Neighbouring Moors which did much annoy his Kingdom ; which request seemed so reasonable , that the Pope ( in Anno 1319. ) instituted this Order , commanding that they should observe the Cistertian Order , and enjoy the same Priviledges and Indulgences formerly granted to their Great Master and Knights ; that they should take the Oath of Fidelity ; that all the possessions in the Kingdom of Portugal formerly belonging to the Knights Templars should belong to these Knights , who were obliged to make War against the Neighbouring Moors . Their Habit was black , with a Cross Pattee , Gules , charged with another of Argent , which they wore on their Breasts . ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD IN FRANCE . Knights of Iesus Christ. THIS Order of Knighthood was instituted in Anno 1206. by St. Dominick , chiesly to fight against the Albigenses or Hereticks , and prescribed to them a white Habit , with a Cross flory , quarterly Sable and Argent , to be worn upon their Breasts ; and that they should elect a Master ; and this Order was approved of by Pope Innocent the Third in Anno 1215. They professed Obedience and Conjugal Chastity . When their business was ended for which they were instituted , they laid away their Arms , and wholly devoted themselves to a Religious Life , and admitted into their Society Widows and Virgins . Knights of the Passion of Iesus Christ. THIS Order was instituted by Charles King of France , and Richard the Second , King of England , for the Re-conquest of the Holy Land , the overthrow of the Enemies of Christ , and the advancement of the Catholick Faith amongst the Eastern people . In the chief Convent of the Holy Chivalry ( which was to be beautified with stately Structures , as Palaces , a Castle , a Church ; and to be richly endowed , and in common amongst them , that they might the better follow the Exercise of their Arms , and other Duties ) all things of publick Concernment were to be heard and debated in the presence of the King by five sufficient Counsels . The two principal Officers of the Chivalry were , first the Grand Justiciary , who had the disposal of all chief Offices and Places , and to whom belonged the Judgment of all criminal Affairs , and next the Grand Bailiff , who was to administer both Civil and Criminal Justice ; besides several other Officers of a lower degree , as the Potestate , the Senator of the General Chapter , the Ten Executors of Justice , and the Charitable Commissaries , &c. And for their better living according to the Rules of Order , they were to vow Obedience , Poverty , and Conjugal Chastity . The Habits which these Knights were appointed to wear , was a civil coloured Cloth Coat , which should reach down half way their legs , which was to be girt about them with a Girdle of Silk or Leather about two fingers broad , a red Cap , and over the said Coat a Mantle of white Cloth or Stuff , with a red Cross of Cloth or Serge about two fingers broad , which was on the Breast from the top to the bottom , and so round the Waist . The number of these Knights were to be about One thousand ; and each Knight was to have his Esquire armed at all points , with three Varlets ; one to carry his Helmet and Launce , another to carry his Mail , and the third to lead his Sumpter ; and in time of Peace two or three Horses and Servants , according as the Ability of the Chivalry would allow . But although this Order was erected upon so good a Design , yet no great progress was made therein , for it died almost in its birth . Knights of the blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel . KIng Henry the Fourth being desirous to have a new Order of Knighthood , made his application to Pope Paul the Fifth , who in Anno 1608. confirmed this Order , and prescribed divers things ( according to the desire of the King ) necessary to the Institution ; and further ordained Pensions to the Great Master and Knights , out of certain Ecclesiastical Benefices in several places in France . Upon this the Commandaries and Hospitals of St. Lazarus in France were disposed of for the maintenance of these new erected Knights ; and those Knights of St. Lazarus that remained in the said Kingdom were joyned unto these . These Knights by their Institution are to be choice Gentlemen of France , whose Duty is to attend the King's person upon any Expedition of War ; they also are to fight against the Enemies of the Roman Church ; and they vow Obedience and Chastity . This Order consists of One hundred : Their Feast is celebrated Annually on the Sixteenth of Iuly . The Badge of their Order is a Cross of eight points , of a tawny or violet colour , with a white Bordure , sewed on the left side of their Cloaks , and the figure of the Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel placed in the midst within a Rundle , encircled with Rayes of Gold , all wrought in curious imbroidery . They also wear about their Necks , in a tawny Ribon , the like Cross of Gold enamelled . Knights of St. Michael . THIS Order was erected by Lewis the Eleventh in Anno 1469. whereinto himself , with others the most principal Peers of his Kingdom of France did enter . And the Reason that did occasion the King to erect this Order , was in memory of an Apparition of St. Michael upon the Bridge of Orleance , when that City was besieged by the English ; at which time ( as Histories relate ) lived a certain Maiden called Ioan , of so rare a Wit and Valour in Arms , that she was reputed more than a mortal Creature , leading an Army her self in the Field against the English ; for which good Service , when the English had vanquished her Army , and took her Prisoner , they in Revenge caused her to be burnt for a Witch in the Market place of Orleance , in which place is since erected a Conduit to her Memory . This Order is ornified with a great Collar , whereto hangeth the figure of St. Michael . The Sovereign of this Order is the French King and his Successors . The number of these Knights at first were Six and thirty , which of late years is much encreased , which doth much eclipse its lustre . The place of their general Assembly was at the Church on Mount St. Michael , every Michaelmas day . To this Order belongeth a Treasurer , Chancellor , Register , and a Herald , named Monsanmichaele . Their Habit , as now used , is as followeth ; first , Doublet , Hose , Shoes , Scabard , with the band of his Cap and Feather all white , his Surcoat Cloth of Silver , with the Sleeves on ; over that a Mantle also of Cloth of Silver , tied over the right Shoulder , and turned up over the left , and bordered about with a rich embroidery of Cockles and Knots ; and over all the Collar of St. Michael . Knights of St. Esprit , or of the Holy Ghost . THIS Order was instituted by Henry the Third of France in Anno 1578. in honour of Whitsunday , on which day , at an Assembly of Estates General of Poland , together with those for the Dutchy of Lithuania , he was elected King of Poland ; and afterwards upon the same Day and Feast he was called and accepted of for their King. The number of persons contained in this Order is said to be One hundred , besides the Sovereign , which is always to be the King : In which said number are comprehended four Cardinals , five Prelats , the Chancellor , Provost , Master of the Ceremonies , great Treasurer , and Scribe , who are called Commanders . Their Grand Feast is Annually celebrated the first of Ianuary in the Church of the Augustine Friers in Paris ; but if the King cannot be there present , then it is to be celebrated where he shall personally be , and in the greatest Church , there being divers Ceremonies to be observed by them in the celebration thereof , which are set down by Sir William Segar , pag. 88. Their Robe is like that of St. Michael , only of black Velvet embroidered all about with Gold and Silver of Flower de lis , and knots of Gold , between sundry Ciphers of Silver and flames of Gold seamed ; also garnished with a Mantle of green Cloth of Silver , wrought over with the same manner of Embroidery , and both lined with Orange-coloured Satan : Their Hose and Doublet is white ; their Bonets black , with white Plumes : Their great Mantle they wear turned up over the left Shoulder , and open on the right : And over all the Collar wrought of the same embroidery-Work , on which hangeth a Cross with the figure of a Dove in the center thereof . Note , that these five Orders , viz. that of the Garter in England , that of the Toizon in Flanders , that of St. Michael in France , that of the Annunciation in Savoy ( yet to treat of ) and this of St. Esprit , are reputed most honourable ; and in token of their excelling all other Degrees of Knighthood , are adorned with great Collars . Knights of the Order of the Genet . THIS Order ( by Favin ) is esteemed the first in France , which was instituted about the year of our Lord 726. by Charles Martel high Steward of France , in memory of that famous Battel fought near Tours , where about Three hundred eighty five thousand Sarazens and Moors , together with their General Abdiramo , were slain ; and the said Charles to reward those that valiantly behaved themselves in the said Battel , erected this Order of Knighthood , which consisted of Sixteen , to whom he gave Collars of Gold made of a Triple Chain , enterwoven with enameled red Roses , at the end whereof hung a Genet of Gold enameled black and red upon a bank of Flowers fairly enameled . Aubertus Meraeus saith these Knights have other Ensigns belonging unto them ; as a Ring after the manner of the Romans , and certain Habits for the Body . The reason why this Order was so called , was from a great many neat shaped Horses called Genets , of which a great part of the Founders Chivalry was said to consist : But others say it took its name from the great store of Genet Furs taken amongst the Spoils of the Victory . But this Order is now Extinct . Knights of the Crown Royal amongst the Frizons . THIS Order was erected by Charles the Great , Son of King Pepin , in Anno 802. for the rewarding and honouring those amongst the Frizons that had valiantly behaved themselves in his Army against the ancient Saxons or Lombards , and to encourage others to acts of Heroick Vertue . This Order took its name from its Ensign , viz. an Imperial Crown , which these Knights used to wear upon their Breasts . They were invested with a Military Belt and a Box on the Ear. Knights of our Lady of the Star. THIS Order was instituted by King Robert in Anno 1022. in honour to the Virgin Mary , but was of no long continuance , being discontinued by King Charles the Seventh , for that it was grown so common by the admitting into the Order persons of no merit . Their Habit was Mantles of white Damask , lined with light carnation Damask , with Surcoats of the same ; and on the left side of the Breast of the said Garments was embroidered a Star of Gold ; and on their Collar , which was much like that of the Order of the Genet , did hand the figure of a Star. The Ceremony of this Order was on the Nativity of the blessed Virgin , who was their Patroness ; and the place where it was kept , was at the House of St. Owen , near St. Denis , in the said Kingdom of France . Knights of the Thistle of Bourbon . THIS Order was instituted on New-years-day 1370. by Lewis the Second , Duke of Bourbon , for the corroborating his power and interest for the Aid of Charles Duke of Orleans , and of his two Brothers Philip and Iohn , against the Faction of the House of Burgundy . The set number of these Knights were Six and twenty , of which himself and his Successors , Dukes of Bourbon , were chief . Their Habit was a Mantle of Skie-coloured Damask , lined with red Satin , with broad Welts of Gold embroidered on the Collar . The Bonnet was of green Velvet , with a Tassel of Gold and crimson Silk hanging on the Band : Their great Collar was of Gold , wrought and enameled with green ; at the bottom whereof , in an Oval , hung the figure of their Patroness the blessed Virgin ; as also the head of a Thistle enameled green and white . And these Knights were obliged daily to wear a Girdle or Belt of watchet Velvet embroidered with Gold , in the midst of which was wrought the word Esperance . Knights of the Porcupine . THIS Order was instituted by Monsieur Lewis of France , Duke of Orleans , in Anno 1393. for the further honouring the Baptism of his eldest Son Charles , which he had by Valentina , Daughter to Iohn Galeas Duke of Millan : and he made choice of this Device of the Porcupine , with the words Cominus & Eminus for his Epigraph ; which intimated as well something of Revenge , which he bore to his inveterate Enemy Iohn Duke of Burgundy , as the great hopes he had of this Child . Of this Order were Four and twenty besides the Founder : Their Habits were Surcoats of violet Velvet , over which were Mantles of watchet Velvet lined with carnation Satin ; and their Collar was formed of Gold chains , whereto hung the figure of a Porcupine of Gold upon a hillock of Grass and Flowers enamelled . Knights of the Croissant of Anjou . RENE Duke of Anjou , King of Ierusalem and Sicily , instituted this Order in the City of Anjou in Anno 1464. in honour of God , the support of the Church , and exaltation of Knighthood : Their Patron was St. Maurice , himself and his Successors were Chiefs . Their Ensign , which they wore on the right side of their Mantle , which was crimson Velvet , was a Golden Crescent , whereon was the word L'oz enameled ; and to this Crescent was fastned as many small pieces of Gold fashioned like Columes , and enameled red , as the Knights had been present in Battels and and Sieges . The Order of the Ermine in Bretagne . THIS Order was instituted in Anno 1450. by Francis the First , Duke of Bretagne , in memory of his Grandfather Iohn , Surnamed the Conqueror ; and consisted of Five and twenty , of which himself was the Chief . The Habit by him appointed them was a Mantle of white Damask lined with carnation , with a Mantlet of the same . The great Collar was of Gold , composed of Ears of Corn in Saltier , and at the end thereof hung the Ermine , or Mus Ponticus , passing over a Turf of Grass ; at the edge of which was this Epigraph , A mavie . But this Order expired when the Dukedom of Bretagne became annexed to the Crown of France . DEGREES OF KNIGHTHOOD IN ITALY . Knights of St. Mary the Glorious . IN the life of Pope Vrban , when there was great War amongst the Italian Princes , which was about the year of our Lord 1233. there were certain rich Gentlemen of Modena and Bologna , who being fearful of the Troubles , and to be exempt from the Publick Charges , moved the Pope to permit them to live in contemplation , and to erect a new Religious Order of Knighthood ; which for a sum of Money they obtained . Their Habit was a white Cassock , and a Mantle of a russet Colour ; and for their Badge they wore a purple Cross Pattee on their Breasts . They are commonly called Cavaleri de Madona ; and because they had no Monasteries , but dwelt at their own Houses with their Wives and Children at ease and plenty , they were termed Fratres Gaudentes . They were obliged to fight against Infidels , and to protect Widows and Orphans . Knights of the Holy Ghost in Saxia at Rome . THE chief Seat of these Knights is the stately Hospital of the Holy Ghost , founded by Pope Innocent the Third , about the year of our Lord 1198. Before their admittance they are obliged to bring Certificate of their Gentility : They profess Obedience , Chastity , and Poverty : They live under the rule of St. Augustine , and have a Master : Their Ensign is a white Patriarchal Cross , with twelve points , sewed on their Breast , and on the left side of their black Mantle . The Revenue belonging to this Hospital is 24000 Ducats daily , with which they do works of great Charity ; as nursing and educating of exposed Children ; the curing of Diseases ; relieving the poor , and entertainment of Strangers for three days . The Constantinian Angelick Knights of St. George which was formerly in Greece . THIS ancient Order of Knighthood is said to take its beginning from Constantine the Great , ●or that he saw by an Angel from Heaven a Cross with this Inscription , In hoc signo vinces ; and the patern of the said Cross presented to his view in the Skie he caused to be made of Gold and precious Stones , and to be carried before his Army instead of their golden Standard formerly used : And this Cross was also to be engraven upon the Armour of his Legionary Souldiers . And for the further adoration of the Cross , after his Triumphal Entrance into Rome upon his Victory over Maxentius , he erected many Crosses with Inscriptions : and in the principal part of the City he caused his Statue to be set up , holding a Banner of the Cross with an Inscription . Their Ensign was a Collar of Gold , to which was fastned a Cross of the same form , and thereunto the figure of St. George . Of this Order Constantine elected Fifty of the Noblest Persons in his Empire , to whom he gave the Standard of the Labarum , and likewise a Collar of Gold ; and constituted several Laws to be observed by the said Fraternity , which were confirmed by Pope Leo the First , who assigned to them the Rule of St. Basil , Anno Dom. 456. which said Order hath been since confirmed by divers succeeding Popes and Emperors . The Great Masters of this Order have now their Convent at Brianno , near the City of Venice , and live in great Grandure , being persons of Eminency , are subject to no Prince ; have the power of coyning Money , restoring of Honours , giving Degrees with the Title of Doctors , creating of Poet Laureats , legitimating of Bastards ; and are priviledged to sit at the Table with the Pope . The Patron of this Order is St. George , and the blessed Virgin Mary their Protectress . Their Habit is a white Garment , on the left side of which is affixed a red Cross flory , made of Velvet ; in the midst of which is the Labarum embroidered after the form of the Letter X , with the Letters Ω upon the one Arm of the Cross , and A upon the other . Knights of St. Peter at Rome . THIS Order was instituted in Anno 1520. by Pope Leo the Tenth , to defend the Sea-Coasts , and to fight against the Turks . Their number was Four hundred ; who were assigned to wear in an Oval of Gold the Figure of St. Paul. Knights of St. George at Rome . THIS Order was instituted by Pope Alexander the Sixth Anno 1498. But as Micheli saith , by Pope Paul the Third , for the Security of the Confines of the Adriatick Sea against Pirats , who for their Ensign wore a Cross of Gold , entow'red with a Circle of the same in form of a Crown . Knights of St. Paul at Rome . THIS Order was instituted by Pope Paul the Third in Anno 1540. Their Ensign was the Figure of St. Paul , which they wore hanging on a Chain of Gold. Knights called Pios at Rome . THIS Order was instituted by Pope Pius the Fourth in Anno 1560. which number at first was Three hundred seventy five , but afterwards encreased to Five hundred thirty and odd . Their Ensign is the Effigies of St. Ambrose , which they wear about their Necks , hanging on a Chain of Gold. Knights of Loretto . THIS Order was instituted in Anno 1587. by Sixtus Quintus ; whose Ensign was the Figure of our Lady of Loretto hanging on a golden Chain . Knights of the glorious Virgin Mary of Rome . THIS Order took its rise from three Brethren of Spella in Italy , surnamed Petrignanoes , in Anno 1618. and the cause of its institution was for . the advancement of the Romish Church , and the suppressing the Turkish Rovers in the Mediterranean Sea. Pope Paul the Fifth approved of this Order , and gave them for their Convent the Palace of St. Iohn de Laterane ; also the City and Port of Civita Vechia for their Arsenal of Gallies , together with the government of his Gallies . These Knights lived under the Rule of St. Francis d' Assise ; and the Pope and his Successors are Great Masters . The Badge , which these Knights wear on the left side of their Mantles , which is white , is a Cross of blew Satin embroidered with Silver , and bordered with Gold , having in the midst a round circle wherein is this Motto , In hoc signo vincam ; and within the said circle is the Letters S. M. From the round circle issue forth twelve Rayes : The ends of the Cross are in fashion of Flower de lis ; on each of which is a Star , which may signifie the four Evangelists , as the twelve Rayes do the twelve Apostles . Knights of Iesus at Rome . THIS Order was instituted in Anno 1320. by Pope Iohn the Two and Twentieth , at Avignon in France , and much enlarged by Pope Paul the Fifth . Their Badge is a plain red Cross , within a Cross Pattee , Gold , which hangs on a gold Chain . And this Order was chiefly erected for the honouring of some of the Nobles and Persons of Quality in his Territories . Knights de la Calza in Venice . THIS Order was instituted about the Year 1400. in honour of the Inauguration of Duke Michele Stelo , and consisted of a Society of Noblemen and Gentlemen , who entred into a Society , and elected a person of Eminence for their Chief ; and afterwards the said Order was confirmed , and priviledges granted unto them . On solemn days their Habit was a crimson Senator's Vest ; and their Ensign was a Sun on a Shield , which they used as well for their Seal , as painted on their Banners . Knights of St. Mark in Venice . THE Ceremony in creating these Knights is much the same as the Knights Batchelors , being dubbed with the Sword , and their Title a bare mark of Honour only : They are not governed by Laws or Statutes ; they have no Revenue , nor are they under any particular Obligation by Vow , as those of other Orders are . This Honour is conferred as well by the Duke of Venice , as by the Senate , upon Persons of eminent Quality , and on such as have merited well of this Commonwealth , which puts the greater esteem thereon . Their Badge of Honour , wherewith they are adorned , is a gold Chain , which hangs over their Shoulders , to which depends a Medal ; on the one side of which is the Emblem of St. Mark , viz. a Lion with Wings , holding in his right Paw a drawn Sword , and in his left an open Book with this Motto , Pax tibi Marce Evangelista meus . And upon removing the Body of St. Mark from Alexandria in Egypt ( where he was buried ) to this City , which was in the Year 828. This Saint hath been taken for their titular Angel and Guardian ; and his Picture was anciently painted upon their Ensigns and Banners . Knights of St. George at Genoa . THIS Order was instituted by Frederick the Third , Emperor of Germany , and dedicated to the honour of St. G●orge their titular Saint and Patron . Their Ensign is a plain Cross , Gules , which is fastned to a gold Chain , and wore about their Necks . Knights of the Order of the precious Blood of our Saviour Iesus Christ at Mantua . IN Mantua 't is reported that there is kept some of the Blood of our Saviour , with a piece of the Spunge in which he received the Vinegar and Gall ; by which Reliques ( as they say , great Miracles are wrought ; And in honour of which Blood , as also for the defence and propagation of the Christian Religion , and for the more noble Cosummation of the Nuptial of Francisco , eldest Son to Vicentio de Gonzaga , fourth Duke of Mantua ; this Order was instituted about the Year 1608. and consisted of twenty Knights , of which the Great Master was one , who was the said Duke and Founder thereof . Their Collar is composed of Ovals of Gold , some the length one way , and some another ; in one of which were these words , Domine probâsti , and in the other flames of Fire slashing about a crucible or melting Pot full of sticks of Gold ; and at the same hanged another large Oval of Gold , wherein were two Angels standing upright , holding between them a Chalice crowned ; on the Table of it were enameled three drops of Blood , and about the Oval this Inscription , Nihil isto triste recepto . Knights of St. Stephen at Florence . COSMO Duke of Florence and Sienna , having settled his Government , and living in a peaceable E●●ate , in Anno 1561. erected this Order , calling those that entred into the said Society Cavalieri de san Steffano . Their Statutes by him constituted are much the same with those of the Order of Malta ; only these have the liberty to marry . Their Ensign is a red Cross bordered about with Gold : Their chief place of Residence is at Pisa , where they have a Church , and a place of Residence built them by the Duke , as being near to the Haven , which receiveth the Gallies wherein these Knights should serve for the checking the Inroads of the Turkish Pirates . The Duke himself , and his Successors , is Great Master of this Order , under whom are divers other Officers of Reputation . Their Habit is a long Mantle of white Chamlet , and on the left part of the Breast a Cross of red crimson Satin , bordered with Gold ; and on Festival days they wear a Ribon about their Necks . Knights of the Knot in Naples . IEwis K. of Hungary being resolved to revenge the death of his Brother Andrew , whom Ioan Q. of Naples , wife of the said Andrew , had caused to be strangled , undertook an Expedition to Italy , and much harassed her Kingdom ; but after a 3 years War , in A. 1351. they came to an Agreement , and shortly after ( with the consent of Pope Clement the Sixth ) the Queen and Lewis Prince of Tarentum were crowned King and Queen of that Kingdom : And in commemoration of so happy a Union , the Prince instituted this Order , into which were enrolled Seventy of the noblest Lords in Naples , together with some Strangers . Their Habit appointed them was a white Garment ; and their Ensign was a Knot intermixed with Gold. But this Order expired soon after the death of the Founder . Knights of the Argonauts of St. Nicholas in Naples . THIS Order was instituted in Anno 1382. by Charles the Third , King of Naples , for the advancement of Navigation , which was much wanting amongst the Neopolitans ; but others say it was erected for the preserving of Amity amongst the Nobles , who were the Persons that were inve●●ed with the said Honour . Their Ensign appointed them by the said King was a Ship to●●ed in a Storm , with this Motto , Non credo tempori . Their Habit was a white Garment ; and their great Feast was held in the Convent of that stately Church built by St. Nicholas Bishop of Smyrna . But by reason of the King 's not settling a Revenue thereon , upon his death it became disused . Knights of the Ermyn in Naples . FErdinand the First , King of Naples , having ended the War which he had against Iohn of Lorain Duke of Calabria ; his Brother in Law Marinus Marcianus , Duke of Sessa , and Prince of Rosiano , had raised a Confederacy against him , and intended to kill him when they were together , by which means the Kingdom might be transferred to the Duke of Calabria : But this Plot being discovered , and the Duke apprehended , instead of causing him to be executed , the King elected him one of this Order , and also admitted thereunto all the Nobles of his Kingdom . The Collar , with which they were invested , was of Gold intermixed with mud or dirt , to which hung an Ermyn , with this Motto , Malo mori quam foedari . DEGREES OF KNIGHTHOOD IN SAVOY . Knights of the Annunciation . THIS Order was instituted in the Year 1362. by Amedeo the Sixth , Earl of Savoy , Surnamed Il Verde , in memory of Amedeo the first Earl thereof , who having valorously defended the Isle of Rhodes against the Turks , won those Arms which are now born by the Dukes of Savoy , viz. Gules , a Cross Argent . The Collar belonging to this Order is of Gold , on which are these Letters Engraven , F. E. R. T. which signifie Fortitudo ejus Rhodum tenuit ; and to this Collar hangeth a Tablet , wherein is the figure of the Annunciation , which is their daily Badge which they wear about their Shoulders . This Order at first consisted of Fifteen , of which the Founder was the Sovereign ; which number was afterwards enlarged . The Church where the Ceremonies were observed , and the Chapters held by the Sovereign and the Knights , was first at Pierre Chastle , which afterwards removed to Montmeillar , and thence to the Hermitage of Camaldule , seated upon the Mountain of of Turin . Their Habit is now a purple Mantle seeded with Roses and Flames in embroidery of Gold and Silver , bordered with the Symbols of the Order , fringed with Gold , and lined with Cloth of Silver , and tissued blew ; under which , instead of a Surcoat , is worn a white Satin Suit embroidered with Silk , and the Breeches like Trouses half way their Thighs . In the said Church were entertained Fifteen Priests , who were to say Fifteen Masses daily to the honour of the fifteen Joyes of the blessed Virgin , to the Souls health of him , his Predecessors , and all who have been , were , or should hereafter be Knights of this Order . Amongst the Orders by them observed , every Knight at his death was to give to the maintenance of the Church One hundred Florins , which was to be paid to the Prior for the time being . That at the death of any of the Knights , the rest should assemble themselves to bury the dead in an honourable order , and every Knight to wear a white Gown , and so make his Offering ; each bringing with him four Wax Torches weighing One hundred pound , and afterwards for Nine days to apparel themselves in mourning : And that every Knight at his burial should give unto the Church a Collar , a Banner , his Armour and Coat of Arms ; all which to be offered at the day of Entertainment at the Church in memory of the deceased . Knights of St. Maurice . AMadis the eighth Duke of Savoy , with ten of his Court Knights , retired themselves to the Desart of Ripaille , near the Lake of Geneva , where they led a Solitary and Hermetical Life . And in the Year 1434. as well to honour St. Maurice the titular Saint and Patron of Savoy , as of his Launce or Sword and Ring , which as a Pledge of Dominion are delivered to them with great Solemnity at their Inauguration : This Order was instituted , and was made subject to the Rule of St. Augustine . The Habit assigned them was an Ash-colour or grey Gown and Chaperon , with Sleeves faced with red Chamlet ; also a Vest of the same girded about them with a golden Girdle , and on the Breast of the Mantle a white Cross pommette of Cloth or Taffaty . About Nine years after ( the Papal See being void by the Deposition of Pope Eugenius the Fourth ) this Duke for his devout Life was elected Pope ● which , with much perswasions he accepted of : But he had not been in it above Nine years , but he resigned the Chair to Pope Nicholas the Fourth , and retired again to a Solitary Life at Ripaille , where he ended his days in Anno 1451. and was interred in the Cathedral of Lausanna . Knights of St. Maurice and St. Lazarus . THese two Orders were erected by Emanuel Philibert , Duke of Savoy , in Anno 1572. and at the request of the said Duke were confirmed and united into one Order by Pope Gregory the Thirteenth , who constituted the said Duke and his Successors Dukes of Savoy Grand Masters thereof , obliging them to set out two Gallies for the Service of the Papal See against the Turkish Pirats . Their Ensign is a green Cross of St. Lazarus , charged with a white Cross of St. Maurice , which they wear either tied to a gold Chain or a Ribon . Their Habit is a Gown of crimson Tabby , with a long Train , wide Sleeves , and edged about with white Taffaty , and a Cordon with a Tassel of white and green fixt to the Collar thereof . A DEGREE OF KNIGHTHOOD IN SWITZERLAND , CALLED Knights of the Bear. THE Emperor Frederick the Second going in Pilgrimage to the Abbey of St. Gall in Anno 1213. gave great Priviledges in acknowledgment of their Assistance in pulling down the Emperor Otho , and establishing himself , and erected this Order of Knighthood ( which he conferred on several Noblemen ) which Annually met at the Abbey of St. Gall on the Sixteenth of October , where all new Knights were to receive the Order from the Abbot , the Patron thereof ; on which day such as were to be admitted into the Fraternity , were girded with a Military Belt ( the Sword being first consecrated at the Altar ) and adorned with the Collar of the Order . But this Order took the Title of the Bear in memory of St. Vrsus of the Theban Legion , who was martyred before the Temple of the Sun at Soleurre in Switzerland . Unto this Order the Founder gave a Collar and a Chain of Gold , to which hung the figure of a golden Bear mounted on an Hillock , enameled with black . But when this Country became a Common-wealth , this Order was laid aside . DEGREES OF KNIGHTHOOD IN GERMANY . Knights of the Tutonick Order of Prusia . THE first Institutor of this Order was a wealthy Gentleman of Germany , who dwelt at Ierusalem after it was taken by the Christians , together with divers other men of his Country ; and being exceeding rich , kept an hospitable House , relieving all Passengers and Pilgrims that travelled to Ierusalem , insomuch that his House became ( as it were ) an Hospital : At length he built near unto his House a fair Church , which he dedicated to our Lady ; and many Christians resorting thither , as well out of Devotion , as to visit the Sick , they resolved to erect a Fr●ternity ; and having chosen a Great Master for their Governor ( which was about the Year of our Lord 1190. ) they imitated the Knights Templars in their Military Employments , and the Knights Hospitallers in their Acts of Piety and Charity ; and instituted several Orders to be observed amongst them , being much the same with those of the Knights Hospitallers and Templars , which were afterwards confirmed by Pope Celestine the Third : But their Habit was a white Mantle , and on the Breast thereof for their Ensign they wore a black Cross voided with a Cross Potence . The Holy Land being retaken from the Christians by the Sarazens , these Knights returned into Germany , where they had not continued long , ere they went to the Emperor Frederick the Second , and acquainted him that the people of Prusia ( who were barbarous Idolaters ) used Incursions upon the Confines of Saxony , and besought the Emperor's leave to make War upon them at their own Charges , but with this Condition , that whatsoever they took should be theirs for the maintenance of the said Order ; which request being so reasonable was immediately granted them , and con●irmed under his Scal : And being thus encouraged , forthwith took up Arms , in which they were so fortunate , that in a short time they not only subdued all that Province , but also passed the River Vistula , and conquered other people , who became their Tributaries , and received the Christian Faith. These Knights thus increasing in Riches and Territories , they built divers Churches and Cathedral Temples , where resided Bishops , who were enjoyned to wear the Habit of the Order . And near unto the River Vistula was a great Oak , where ( in Anno 1340. ) they built the first Cas●●● and Town , which afterwards took the Name of Mareenburgh , or Burgo 〈◊〉 St. Maria ; where is now the chief Ch●rch belonging to this Order , to which belongeth so great Riches , that these Knights , for Men and Money , might compare with divers Princes : But about the Year 1525. Albertus Brandenburgh being Great Master , he renounced this Order , and became feudatory to Sigismond the First , King of Poland , who raised Prusia into a Dukedom , and this Albert was made first Duke thereof . But some of the Knights did afterwards elect a new Great Master , and settled in Germany ; but the Order is now of small lustre . Knights of St. Gereom . THIS Order received its first Institution by Frederick Barborossa the Emperor , which consisted only of German Gentlemen . Their Habit was a white Gown , whereon they wore a black Patriarchal Cross set on a green Hillock ; and they followed the Rule of St. Augustine . Knights of St. George in Austria and Carinthia . THIS Order was erected ( in Anno 1470. ) by Frederick the Third , Emperor of Germany , principally for the guarding the Frontiers of Germany , Austria , Carinthia , Stiria , and Hungary against the Incursions of the Turks , who before much harassed these parts : But since the Institution of these Knights they have received great checks . Their Ensign is St. George's Cross , which they wear on their Garment , which is white . They profess Conjugal Chastity , and Obedience to their Great Master , whose Seat and Residence was the Castle of Mildstad in the Dukedom of Carinthia , where there was founded a Cathedral Church of Canons under the Rule of St. Augustine ; and for their Protector they have or had the Emperors . Knights of St. Michael the Arch-Angel . THIS Order was instituted ( in Anno 1618. ) by Charles Gonzaga Duke of Mantua and Nevers , together with the contrivance of his Brother Adolph Count of Altham , and Iohn Baptist Petrignan Sfortia , chiefly to establish peace and concord between Christian Princes and their Subjects , and to relate and redeem Captives . The year following this Order was received at Vienna by sundry Princes of divers Countries ; and in Anno 1624. it was confirmed by Pope Vrban the Eighth . Their Habit was a white Mantle , over which they wore a shorter of blew Silk , with Buskins also of blew , and a black silk Cap : About their Necks on a blew Ribon hung a gold Cross of eight points , enameled blew ; on the one side thereof was the figure of the Virgin Mary with our Saviour in her Arms ; and on the other the figure of St. Michael treading the Dragon under his Feet : And on the left side of their white Mantles was a Cross embroidered with blew Silk and Gold , in the midst whereof was the figure of the blessed Virgin with Christ in her left Arm , and a Scepter in her right hand , crowned with twelve Stars , surrounded with Rayes of the Sun , and a Crescent under her feet ; all which was encircled with the Cord of St. Francis ; and the four Angles of the Cross cast forth each of them a golden Flame . But some differences arising amongst the Founders of this Order , was the cause of its so sudden dissolution . Knights of St. Anthony in Hainolt . THIS Order was instituted ( in Anno 1382. ) by Albert of Bavaria , Earl of Hainolt , Zealand , and Holland , upon his Expedition against the Turks and Moors . Their Ensign was a golden Collar , after the fashion of a Hermit's Girdle , to which hung a walking Staff , and a little golden Bell. Knights of the Tusin Order in Bohemia or Austria . THIS Order ( as 't is said ) was instituted by the Arch-Dukes of Austria , for the engaging their Subjects to expel the Turks and Hereticks out of their Territories , which for about Two hundred years had there seated themselves ; which cost the Dukes an excessive Charge to maintain a War against them , and to no great purpose . But these Knights having by Grant for their support what they gained from them , gave them so great Encouragement , that in a few years the whole Province was almost cleared of them by them . Their Habit was a red , and their Ensign was a plain green Cross. Knights of St. Hubert in Gulick or Juliers . THIS Order was instituted in Anno 1473. by Gerard Duke of Gulick and Berg , or Iuliers and Mount , in honour of St. Hubert Bishop of Liege , who died in the year of our Lord 727. As to their Habit and Ensign , I have met with no account thereof . Knights of the Order of St. James in Holland . THIS Order received its institution in the Year 1290. from Florentius Earl of Holland and Zealand , who ( in his Palace at the Hague ) in honour of St. Iames created Twelve of his principal Nobles Knights of this Order , whom he invested with Collars of Gold , or Military Belts of Silver and Gilt , adorned with six Escallops , to which hung the figure of St. Iames the Apostle . DEGREES OF KNIGHTHOOD IN SWEDEN . Knights of the Brician Order . THIS Order was erected in the Year of our Lord 1366. by the famous Queen Bridget , who for her holy Life was styled and enrolled a Saint ; and out of her zeal for the honour of Jesus Christ , the defence of the Christian Religion , the securing the Confines of her Kingdom , the succouring Widows and Fatherless , and the maintenance of Hospitality , endowed this Order with a considerable Revenue . This Order was approved of by Pope Vrban the Fifth , who gave them the Rule of St. Augustine : And their Ensign was a blew Cross of eight points , and under it a Tongue of Fire . Knights of the Seraphins . THIS Order was instituted in Anno 1334. by Magnus the Fourth , King of Sweden , in memorial of the Siege laid to the chief City of Vpsala . The Collar assigned to this Order was composed of Patriarchal Crosses of Gold , and of Seraphins of Gold , enameled red ; and at the end thereof hung the figure of our Saviour , or of the Virgin Mary . Knights of Amaranta . THIS Order was instituted about the Year 1645. by Christiana Queen of Sweden , in honour of a Lady named Amaranta , celebrated for her Charity , Modesty , Beauty and Courage . And by their Oath they were to defend and protect the person of the Queen , as also the persons of their Fellow Brothers from harm : To his power to advance Piety , Virtue , and Justice , and to discountenance Injury and Vice. Their Ensign is a Jewel of Gold , composed of two great A A , one being reversed ; enriched on both sides with Diamonds , and set within a wreath of Laurel Leaves , banded about with white , whereon is this Motto , Dolce nella memoria : And this Badge they wear either hanging at a gold Chain , or a crimson or blew Ribon , which they please . Here is another Order of Knighthood in this Kingdom of Sweden , called of the Sword and Military Belt , whose Collar consisted of Swords and Belts conjoyned ; but by whom and when Instituted , I am ignorant of . KNIGHTS OF THE Order of the Elephant IN DENMARK . KING Christian the First of Denmark , upon a Religious account travelled to Rome ; and amongst other Honours , Pope Sixtus the Fourth , in memory of the Passion of our Saviour , invested him with this Order , and ordained him and his Successors , Kings of Denmark , Chief and Supream of the said Order ; which was conferred on the Danish Princes , as a memorial to incite them to defend the Christian Religion against the Moors and A●ricans . These Knights were obliged to perform Acts of Piety and Charity , with certain Ceremonies to be observed , especially upon those days on which they wore the Ensign of their Order , which was the figure of an Elephant , on whose side , within a rundle , was represented a Crown of Thorns with three bloody Nails . Instead of their golden Collar formerly won by them , they now wear about them a blew Ribon , to which hangs an Elephant enameled white , and beautified with five large Diamonds set in the midst . On the day of the Coronation of the King 's of Denmark this Order hath been commonly conferred upon the Nobles and most deserving Senators of his Kingdom . DEGREES OF KNIGHTHOOD IN POLAND . Knights of Christ , or of the Sword-bearers in Livonia . THIS Order was instituted by Albert Bishop of Livonia , about the Year of our Lord 1200. for the propagation of the Christian Religion in those Parts , in imitation of the Knights Teutonicks in Prusia , to which Order they were united about the Year 1237. and submitted themselves to their Rule and Habit ; by whose assistance they subdued the Idolatrous Livonians , and brought them to embrace the Christian Faith. But in the Year 1561. Gothard de Ketler , then Great Master in the Castle of Riga , surrendred to the use of Sigismond the Second , King of Poland , Surnamed Augustus , all the Lands belonging to this Order ; together with the Seal of the Order , his Cross , the Keys of the City and Castle of Riga , the Charters and Grants of the several Popes and Emperors which concerned the same ; the priviledge of Coynage , and all other matters concerning the same ; upon which the said Great Master received back from the said King's Commissioners the Dukedom of Curland , to be enjoyed by him and his Heirs for ever ; upon which this Order became extinguished . Knights of the white Eagle . THIS Order was erected by Ladislaus the Fifth , King of Poland , for the further honouring the Marriage of his Son Casimire the Great with Anne Daughter of Gerdimir Duke of Lithuania , in Anno 1325. and for their Ensign had a white Eagle crowned . KNIGHTS OF THE Order of the Dragon OVERTHROWN IN HUNGARY . THIS Order was instituted in the Year 1418. by Sigismund the Emperor , Surnamed the Glorious , for the Defence of the Christian Religion , and the suppressing the Schismaticks and Hereticks , which he had been victorious over in many Battels . Their Ensign , which they daily wore , was a green Cross flory ; on Festival days they wore a scarlet Cloak , and on their Mantle of green Silk a double gold Chain , or a green Ribon , to which hung the figure of a Dragon , dead , with broken Wings , and enameled with variety of colours . But although this Order was of high esteem for a time , yet it almost expired with the death of the Founders . Knights of the Order of the Sword in Cyprus . GVY of Lusignan soon after his possession ( as King ) of the Isle of Cyprus , which he had bought of Richard the First , King of England , for One hundred thousand Crowns of Gold , in Anno 1195. erected this Order in Commemoration of so good and fortunate a Plantation for Fifteen thousand Persons , which he had brought thither with him . The Collar of this Order was composed of round Cordons of white Silk woven in Love-knots , and interlaced with the Letters S. and R. To this Collar hung an Oval of Gold , wherein was enameled a Sword , the Blade Silver , and the Hilt Gold , and about the Oval was this Motto , Securitas Regni . This Honour of Knighthood the said King ( who was Great Master ) conferred on his Brother Amaury Constable of Ierusalem and Cyprus , and on Three hundred Barons which he had created in this his new Kingdom : But when the Turks became Masters of the Isle , this Order ceased . KNIGHTS OF Saint Anthony IN AETHIOPIA . ABout the Year of our Lord 370. Iohn Emperor of AEthiopia ( vulgarly called Prester Iohn ) erected into a Religious Order of Knighthood certain Monks , who lived an austere and solitary Life in the Desert , after the Example of St. Anthony the Hermit , and Patron of this Empire , and bestowed upon these Knights great Revenues and many Priviledges . And thus being instituted , they received the Rule of St. Basil , submitted to his Constitutions , wore a black Garment , and for their Ensign a blew Cross in form of the Letter T. Their chief Seat was in the Isle of Meroe , where the Abbots both Spiritual and Temporal resided ; but in many other parts of AEthiopia they have or had great store of Monasteries and Convents , with about two Millions of yearly Revenue . These Knights vow to defend the Christian Religion ; to yield Obedience to their Superiors ; to observe Conjugal Chastity ; not to Marry , or receive any other holy Orders without licence first obtained from the Abbot ; to guard the Confines of the Empire ; and to go to War when and where they are commanded . Into this Order the eldest Sons of Noblemen or Gentlemen cannot be admitted , but the second Sons may : And if a man of any degree whatsoever ( except a Physician ) have three Sons , he is bound to enter one of them into this Order . Knights of the Burgundian Cross in Tunis . MVlleasses King of Tunis , who was driven out of his Kingdom by Barbarossa , that noted Pirate , was again ( in Anno 1535. ) restored thereunto by the assistance of Charles the Fifth , Emperor of Germany , and King of Spain . And being desirous to gain the love of all those that had served in that War , did ( as a reward ) confer this honour of Knighood upon all those Commanders that valiantly behaved themselves in his Service . The Ensign that he assigned them was the Burgundian Cross , to which was added a Steel striking Sparks of Fire out of Flint , with this Inscription , BARBARIA ; which third Badge hung to a Collar of Gold. KNIGHTS OF THE West-Indies . PErsons that performed valiant Acts in War were by the Mexicans advanced to Honour , and had sundry Priviledges granted them ; insomuch that their chief Nobility sprang from the Camp. And Montezuma was so high a Favourer of Knighthood , that he ordained divers Orders , which he distinguished by several Ensigns . The principal Degree of these Knights were those that had the crown of their Hair tied with a small red Ribon , with a rich Plume of Feathers , from which hung so many Branches and Rolls of Feathers upon their Shoulders , as they had performed worthy Exploits in War. And these were termed Eagle Knights , of which Order the King was the Supream . The Order of the Knights of the Lions and Tigers were the most valiant in War , and always bore with them their Badges and Armorial Ensigns , and went to the War ( as did the Eagle Knights ) armed Cap-a-pe . The Order of the Grey Knights had their Hair cut round about their Ears , were not so much honoured as the former , and when they went to Wars , were armed but to the middle . All these Degrees of Knights had their Apartments in the King's Palace , which were distinguished by their several Ensigns : And amongst the honourable Priviledges that they enjoyed , they might carry Gold and Silver , wear rich Cotton , and Shoes after their fashion , and use painted and guilt Vessels ; all which were prohibited the common people . The Order of Knighthood of the Blood Royal in Peru were of great esteem for their approved Valour ; for before they could be admitted into the said Degree , their Manhood was sufficiently tried ; as in managing the Dart , Lance , and other Military Exercises ; also in Leaping , Wrestling , Running , Shooting , &c. in all which if they were not very expert , they were thought unworthy to receive so great an Honour : But being found worthy to be admitted , divers Ceremonies were used at their Creation ; as putting on them fine Shoes and Breeches ; boreing of holes in their Ears ; giving them an Ax ; and adorning their Heads with Flowers , &c. all which was forbidden the common people . And the Peruvian Lords at their solemn Feasts at Cusco used to dedicate their Children to Honour , adorning them with Ensigns , making holes in their Ears , and anoynting their Faces with Blood , in token that they should be true Knights to the Ingua . The Knights of Cinaloa , which is a Province near New Mexico , were created by giving them a Bow , and ordering them to encounter a Lion , or some other savage Beast , which if they slew , they were received into favour and Honour . The Rt. Honourble . Henry Coventry Esq his matys . principall Secretary of State &c a. son t● the Rt. Honourble . Thomas Lord Coventry Lord Keeper of ye. Great Seale of England : The Honourble . Iohn Hervey of Ickworth in Suffolke Esq. ● Treasurer to ye. Queens maty . : The honble . William Ashburnham of Ashburnham in ye. County of Sussex Esq. Cofferer to his maty . King Charles the 2d. William Wharton Esq. Fourth son to y●e . Rt. honble . Phillip Lord Wharton of Wharton in Westmoreland by Ann Daughter to 〈◊〉 ●am Carr of Fernihast in Scotland Esq. 〈◊〉 of ye. Groomes of ye. Bedchamber to King Iames. SAMVEL GRANT of Crundall in Hantshire Esq. one of the society of the Inner Temple London Esq. ●ender Molesworth of Spring Garden in the parish of St. Katherines in the Island of Jamaica Esq. one of his matys . Councell 〈◊〉 the Sd. Isle second son of Hender Molesworth of Pencarrow in Cornwall Es●abque ; who was lineally descended from Sr. Walter de Molesworth of Northamptonshire who flourished in Marshall proess in the dayes of King Edw. the first & went wth . him to the holy warrs . GEORGE LEGGE Esq. Governor of ●ortsmouth master of the Horse to his Royall Highness Iames Duke of Yorke Leiutenant of his matys . Forest of Alce holt & Woolmer in Hantshire & one of the Deputy Leiutenant of the Sd. County Comander of his matys . Shipp ye●●yall Katherine & one of the principall Officers of his matys . Ordnance . THOMAS FEJLD of Stanstead Bury in the County of Hertford Esq now maried to Mary eldest daughter of Sr. Thomas Byde of Ware park in the Said County Kt. Humfrey Wi●●ley of the J●●ter T●mpl● Esq one of the Prothonotar●●s of his maties . Court of Common ●lea● at Westminster fift son of Humfrey W●●rley Esq of H●msted hall in the County of Stafford by Knightley his Wife ●OGER TW●SDEN Esq eldest son of S ● Thomas Twisden of Bradborne in th● parish of East Malling in Kent Kt. & Ba●●● one of the Justices of his matys . Court of Kings Bench EDWARD THVRLAND Esq only son of Sr. Edward Thurland of R●ygate in the County of Surrey Kt. one of the Barons of his matys . Court of Exchequer . EDWARD ROBERTS of the Citty of Dublin in the Kingdome of Ireland Esq now Maried to Alce daughter of Edw : Chute of Surrendē in the Weld of Kent Esq 〈◊〉 much Honoured Daniel Fleming of 〈…〉 in Cumberland & of Rydal hall in 〈…〉 and Esq of which family & Surname there 〈…〉 Lords of ye. maner of B●ckermet of 〈…〉 b●en Kts . & all ye. rest ( that then wedd●d ) 〈…〉 ye. Daughters of Baronets● or Knigh●●● ●●●●ill Skelton ( eldest sonn of Sr. Iohn Skelton 〈◊〉 Leiutenant Gouernor of Plimouth ) who wa● 〈◊〉 of Honor to his maty . in his , exile & now 〈◊〉 ye●●oomes of 〈◊〉 Bedchamber● & Captaine in his Foot Guards . 〈◊〉 Mariet of Whitchurch in Warwickshire , & of 〈◊〉 Pr●ston in Glocestershire Esq maried one of th● 〈◊〉 and h●yr●s of Sr. Richard Brawn● of 〈◊〉 in the said County of Glocester Knight . Walter Chetwynd of Ingestre in ye. County of Stafford Esq Samuel Pepys of Brampton in Huntin●●tonshire Esq Secretary of the Admiralty his maty . King Charles the Second . Descende● of the antient family of Pepys of Cottenham in Cambridg●● ●●hn Georges of Bawton in Glocestershire Esq a member of the Honourable house of Comons for this present Parliament 1677 descended the antient and Worthy family of the Georges of Cicester in the said County . Iohn Butler D. D. Chaplain in ordinary to his 〈◊〉 King Charles the 2d. and Canon of Windsor , mar●● Susanna one of the daughters of Sr. Edward Thomas of Lamihangle in Glamorganshire Bart. ●●ptaine Iohn Loggan of Idbury in Oxfordshir● and of Bassetsbury in Com● Bucks , Maried Mary Sole Daughter and heire of Hugh D●rrell of Millend in the said County of Buckingha● Gent. Henry Pilkington of Stanton in the County of Derby Esqr. George Bowen Esqr. lineally descended from and present heire unto the antient family of the Bowens of Courthouse in the seigniory of Gower in Glomorganshire . Henry Gilbert son and heyre of Henry Gilbert of Lockoe in Derbyshire Esqr. by Elizabeth daughter and Coeheyre of Sr. Iohn Barnard of Abington in Northamptonshire Knight . Iohn Colwall of the Inner Temple London Esqr. Samuel Sanders son & heyre apparent of Thomas Sanders of Ireton in Derbyshire Esqr. which maried Margaret daughter and Coeheyre of Evers Armyne of Osgodby in the County of Lincolne Esqr. Richard Goodlad of the Citty of London Esqr. Lewis Inkledon of Buckland in the Parish of Branton in the County of Devon Esqr. Thomas Rawlins of Langarran in the County of Hereford Esqr. Colonell Titus of Bushy in the County of Her●ford , one of the Groomes of his matys . Bedchamber &c. Tho● Dereham Esq of the antient family of Dereham at Dereham in Norfolk , Servant to his Majesty King Charles the 2d. E●an Seq● of Boverton in the County of Gla●morgan sergeant at Law , of which Coat and family see more in the body of the Booke Section 6. Chapter ● . ●ndrew Lant of Thorp : vnderwood alias Thorp Bill●● in Northamptonshire Esq son of Robert Lant of London Merchant by Elizabeth Daughter & heyre of Rich : Andrews of Thorp : vnderwoo●●●●resaid Gent. which said Andrew Lant is now maried to Iudith● 〈◊〉 daughter of Will Vannam of London Esq Iohn Darnall of the Middle Temple London Esqr. now maried to Mary daughter of William Bacon of St. Clements Danes in Middlesex Esqr. Gabriel Armiger of North Creak● in the County of Norfolk , and of the Inner Temple London Esq ● William Dutton Colt Esq r son of George Colt of Colt Hall in Suffolk Esq r by Elizabeth daughter and Coheyre of Iohn Dutton of Sherbourn in Glocestershire Esqr. which said William is now maried to Lucy sole daughter of Thomas Webb of — in Kent Esqr. Randolph Egerton of Betley in Staffordshire Esqr. first Leivtenant and Major of his Mat●s . owne Troop of Guards under the comand of his grace Iames Duke of Monmouth first maried to Penelope daughter of the Rt. honble . Rob : viscount Kilmurrey of the Kingdome of Ireland , and now to Eiliz ●aughter and heyre of Henry Murrey Esq r one of the Gent of his Matis . Bed-chamber to K. Charles the first by Ann now viscountess Banning . Iohn Wildman of Beaucot alias Becket in the County of Berks Esqr. Nathan Knight of Ruscombe in Berkshire Esq r intermariat ●th . Margaret Eldest daughter and Coheire of William Stroode of Ruscombe Aforesaid Esqr. William Petyt of the Inner T●mple London Esq r : and Silvester Petyt Gen● Brother to the Sd. Wm. desc●nde●● ( by Gilbert a Younger sonn of Sr. Iohn Petyt● From ●● Antient family of that name who were Lords of Ardever in Cornwall . tempore H. ● . Iohn Lamphigh of Lamplugh in Cumberland Esqr. Collonell of a foot Regiment at Marston Moore in Yorkshire under the Command of his High●ness Prince Rupert of wch . Family see more in the body of the Booke● section 2d. Chapt : ● . Thomas Burton of the City of London Esq Thomas Madden of the Inner Temple London Es● des●ended of ye. Maddens Formerly of Muddenton in Mil●shire who are now seated at Rousky Castle in 〈◊〉 County of Fermanaugh in the Kingdome of 〈◊〉 . Godwin Swift of Gooderidge in the County of Hereford Esq one of the society of Gra●s Inn descend of the Family of ye. Swists of York-shire Henry Ra●●sford B. D and Rector of Stanmo●e Magna in the County of Midd : Maried Mary one of ye. Daughters of Iohn Montfort of Jewing in ye. County of Hartford D. D. & Residentiary of St Pauls London Nathaniel Stoughton of St. Iohns near Warwick in Warwick shire Esq lineally descended from the antient family of the St●ughtons of Stoughton in Surrey ; now maried to Ann daughter and heyre of Will. Brough , late Deane of Glocester deceased , of this family see more in the body of the booke Section 6. Chap 1. Capt. Iohn Clifford of Frampton upon Severne in Glocestershire ; whose family have there continued ever since the Reigne of Will : the Conqueror , takeing its rise from Puntins a noble man of Normandy who came into England with the said Will , whose second sonn Osbert held the said Frampton , and from whom , for want of issue it descended to Walter de Clifford the predecessor of the said Iohn . of wch . Coate and family see more in the body of the booke section 5. Chapter 4. Richard Booth of the Citty of London Esqr. descended from the Booth's of Witton in Warwickshire . now maried to Elizabeth daughter of Iohn Hopcroft Cittizen of London . Thomas Stephens Esq r , only son and heyre of S. Tho. Stephens of little Sodbury in Glocestershire Kt , now liveing , whose Grandfather Tho : Stephens was Attourney Generall to Prince Hen● and after his decease to K. Charles the first when Prince of Wales , in wch service he dyed of this family see more in the body of the booke section 3. chap. 20. William Iollife of Carswall Castle in Stafford shire Esqr. who first maried Martha eldest daughter of Thomas Foley of Witley Court in Worcestershire Esq r , and now the Lady Mary Hastings daughter of the Rt. honble . Ferdinando late Earle of Huntington Henry Arthington of Arthington in the west Rideing of York shire Esq ● Thomas Modyford of Easttuar in the County of Kent Esqr● Collonell of a Regiment of Foot at Port Royall in the Island of Iamaica , sonn and heyre of Sr. Tho. Modyford Bart. late Governor of the Sd. Island . Erasmus Smith alias Her●● of St. Iones in the parish of Clarkenwell in Midd Esqr. sonn of Sr. Roger Smith of Edmonthorp in Leicestershire Kt. dec●ased descended from the antient family of the Smiths of Withcock in the s ● . County ●c● . S ● . Erasmus is now maried to Mary daughter of Hugh Hare Baron of Cole●●● in Ireland 〈◊〉 the Lady Lucy Mountague daughter of Hen : Earle o●●●●chester L d 〈◊〉 Coll : Robert Werden of Chester , Comptroler to his Royall Highness Iames Duke of York , and first Leiutenant , and Major of his Guards , first maried to Iane daughter of Edw : Barnham of Cock hall , in Kent Esq r , and now to Margaret daughter and heyre of Will. Towse of Bassingburn hall in Essex Esq. Humphrey Weld of Lulworth Castle in Dorsetshire Esq r Governor of his Ma ●ys . Isle and Castles of Portland and Sandes foot , lineally desended from Edricke Sylvaticus alias Wild● a Saxon of great renowne in the reignes of K. Herold , and Will. the Conqueror●whose father Alfrick was brother to Edricke of Stratton Duke of Mercia● wch sd. Humprey is now Maried to Clara daughter of the Rt. honble Th●● Ld. Arundel of Warden Court of the Empire Col● . Thomas Sackevile of Selscombe in Sussex , a Person of great Loyalty , being one that served his late maty . in all his expeditions , and was one of the Captaines of his life guards , in the begining of the late warrs . He is now maried to Margaret daughter of 〈◊〉 Henry Compton of Brambletye in Sussex K ● . of the Bath and Uncle to the late Earle of Northampton . Phillip Doughty of Eashere in the County of Surrey Esq descended from an English Saxon family of ye. Dohags who were here Sealed before the Conguest . Skynner Byde Esqr. eldest sonn of Sr. Thomas Byde of Ware Park in the County of Hertford Knight , now maried to Anne daughter of Tho Austen of Hoxton in Middlesex Esqr. Captaine Iohn Huitson of Cl●asbey in the County of York , one of the Captaines of the Couldstrem Regiment of foot guards to his maty . King Charles the second , now maried to Martha daughter of Sr. William-Cooper of Ratling Court in Kent Baronet . Thomas Tomlins of St. Leonards Bromley in Midd. sx Esq r first maried to Ann daughter of Captaine Will : Goodladd of Lee in Essex 2dly . to Eliz : daughter of Ric : Swinglehurst of London Merchant , 3dly . to Eliz : daughter of Reynolds of East Grenwich in Kent Esq r & now to Susanna daughter of Geo : Cranmer of Canterbury in Kent afore sd Merchant . Nicholas Barbon of London M.D. one of the Colledge of Phisitians of the S ● . Citty . now maried to Margaret daughter of Iohn Hayes of Hadley in Midd sx . Esqr. Beaumont Dixie of Bosworth in the County of Leicester Esqsr. sonn and heyre of Sr. Wolstan Dixie of Bosworth aforesaid Bart. now maried to Mary sister and heyre to Sr. William Willoughby of Willoughby in Nottinghamshire Bart. deceased . Richard Winwood of Ditton Park and Quainton in the County of Bucks Esqsr● sonn and heyre of the Rt. honble . Sr. Ralph Winwood Knight● Embassador Ledger to ●he States of the united Provinces , and principall secretary of state to King Iames. Edward Peck of Samford Hall in the County of Essex sergeant 〈◊〉 Law to his maty . King Charles the 2● . sonn and heyre of Will Peck of Met●●●●old in the County of Norfolk Esqsr. and interm●ried w ● . Gra●e one of the daug●●●ers ●●d Coheyr̄s of Will Green of East Barnet in Hartfordshire Esqs ● . William Peck of Samford hall in the County of Essex Esqs ● . sonn and ●eyre of Edw. Peck sergeant at Law and is now maried to Gartrude sole daughter and heyre of Sr. Will● Gr●en of Mitcham in the County of Surry Bart. Iustinian Pagit of Grais Inn in Com Middz Esqss. Cristos Br●ium et Recordorum Banco Regis . Ioseph Micklethwaite of Swyne in Holderness in the County of York ' Esqs s William Mountagu Esqss. ( son & heyre to the honble William Mountagu Lord cheife Baron of his matys Court of Exchequer ) maried to Ann Sole daugh●●●● heyre of Ric : Evelyn of Woodcot in the County of Surrey● Esqss. Thomas Robinson of the Inner Temple Londo● Esqss. cheife Prothonotary of his matys . Court of Comon Pleas. Francis Diue of Bromham in the County of Bedford Esq son & heirè of Sr Lewis Diue of the said place Kt. now maried to Theophila Daughter of the Right Reverend Father in God Iohn Hackett late Lord Bishop of Litchfeild and Couentry . Owen Feltham of Greys Inn in ye. County of Middlesex Esq r now maried to Mary one of ye. Daughters & Coheires of Alexander Portree of Barnsta●le in Devonshire Esq● Francis Wythens of Eltham in the County of Kent Esq , one of ye. society of the Middle Temple London . Iames Hoare of Edmonton in the County of Middlesex Esq and one of the society of ye. Middle Temple London . Thomas Foley of Kidderminster in Worcestersh : Esq eldest son of Thomas Foley of Witley Court in Worcestersh : Esq now maried to Elizabeth Daughter of Edward Ash of Halsted in the County of Kent Esq. Paul Foley of Stoak● Court in the County of Hereford Esq. second sonn of Tho : Foley of Witley Court in Worcester shire now maried to Mary daughter of Iohn Lane of ye. Citty of London Esq. Phillip Foley of Prestwood in the County of Stafford Esq third son of Tho : Foley of Witley Court in Worcestershire Esq now maried to Penelope daughter of the Rt. honble . Wm. Ld. Pagett Baron of Bea●desert . Tollemach Duke of Lincolns Inn in Middlesex Esq , Exigenter for London &ct. in the Court of Common pleas , sonn & heyre of Dr. Edward Duke of Honingtō . in Suffolk , by Eliz : his wife onely daughter of Robert 2d son of Sr. Lionel Tollemach of Bently & Helmingham in the Sd. County ●ar ● : linealy descended in a direct male line from ye. antient family of the Dukes of Brampton & Shadingfeild in the Sd. Coun●y of late Barts . Thoma● Walker of y● Inner Temple London Esqs s som time Comptroller of y● S ● . society . son of Thomas Walker of Warwic●shire Esqss. who is descended from an antient family of that name in Leicestershire wch . Sd. Tho : ( the bearer hereof ) is now maried to Elizabeth daughter & Cohey●e of Hoo Games of Newton in Brecknockshir Esqs ● . of wch . Sd. familys see more in the body of th● Book S●ction chapter . Iohn Bennet of ●bington in the County of Cambridge Esqss. Iohn Lewkenor of West Deane in Sussex Esqs s son and heyre of Sr. Iohn Lewkenor Kt. of y● Bath deceased . by Ann daughter and Coheyre of George Myn of Myn in Shropshir Esqs s decended from the antient family of the Lewke●ors . Thomas Coxe M.D. Physitian in ordinary to his maty . King Charles the 2d. William Thompson of the Middle Temple London Esq no● maried to Mary Sole daughter of Iohn Stephens of Broadway in Worcestershire Gent. William Atwood of Bromfeild in Essex and Grais : Inn in Middlesex Esq son and heyre of Iohn Atwood Esq desceased by Elizabeth daughter and Coheyre of Patrick Young Esq son of Sr. Peter Young K ● . Abnoner , and privy Councellor of Scotland to King Iames. Thoma● Plott Esq secretary to his Highness the Great Duke of Tuscany : descended of the family of the Plotts of Sparsholt in Berkshire . Iohn Warner of Brakent waite in the Parish of Kirkby● overblow in the i●est rideing of Yorkshire Esq lineally descended from the Warners of Warner hall in the County of Essex . Humphrey Borlase of Treluddro in the County of Cornwall Esqr. Anthony Keck of The Inner Temple London Esqr. Iacob Lucie of the Citty of London Esqr. now maried to Mary daughter of Iohn Sr. Iohn of Coldoverton in the County of Leicester Esqr. Richard Peirce of the Citty of London Esqr. Roger Iames of Riegate in Surrey Esqr. of y● antient family of Haestract in Holland , from whom are Descended the severall familys of the Iames of Surrey● Kent . Middlesex . & Essex . wk. Sd. Roger is n●w maried to Elizabeth Daughter of Sr. Anthony Ancher of Bishops bo●●●h in Kent Kt. deceased Charles Beauvoir of the Citty of London Esqr. Des●●nded from the Family of the Beauvoir of the Island of Garnsey Iohn Evance of the Citty 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 London Esqr. Valentine Crome of Mayden● Early in Berk●shire Esqr. descended from the antient family of Lewis in Yorkshire . Thomas Windham of Tale in Devonshire Esq one of the Grooms of his matys● Bedchamber ; third son of Sr. Edmond Windham of Cathanger in Somerset shire● Kt Marshall of his matys● most honble . household and lineally descended of the antient family of the Windhams of Crown-Thorp in the County of Norfolk . Thomas Stringer of Bexwells in the County of Essex Esq● Daniel Collingwood of Branton in Northumberland Es r Major to the Queens Troop of his Matis Guard , Governor of his Matis● Castle in Holy Island , and Deputy Leivtenant of the s●id County of Northumberland . Iohn Iollife of the Citty of London Esq r descened from the family of Iollifs of Botham in Staffordshire Iohn Strachey of Sutton Court in the County of Somerset Esqr. Nicholas Martyn of Lincolns Inn in Middlesex Esq. son and heyre of Nicholas , Martyn of Lincolns ●n aforesaid Esr. deceased , who was descended from the family of ye. Martins of Admiston , alias , Athelha●●ston , in Dorsetsh : now maried to Dorcas , daughter o● Richard Graves Esqr. deceased late Reader of Lincolns Inn● William Palmer of Winthorp in Lincolnsh : Esq ● . Captaine of a Troop in the Regiment of Horse of his Grace the Duke of ●onmouth : Captaine Generall of all his ●atys . land forces . Edward Clarke of the Inner Temple London Esqr. son and heyre of Edward Clarke of Chipley , in the County of Somerset Esqr. Maried Mary sole daughter & heyre● of Samuel Ieppe , of Suttons court● in the sd. county Esq. Anthony Rowe of St. Martins in the Fields in the County of Midd● Esq ● third son of Sr. Thomas Rowe of Muswell hill in the said County . K ● Henry Marwood of 〈◊〉 Bus●y in Yorkshire Esqr. Son and heyre of Sr. George H●rwood Bart. First maried to Margaret fourth daughter of th● R ● . honourable Con●ers Ld. Darc●●to his second Dorothy second daughter of Allen Bellingham , of L●v●ns in Westm●rland Esq r and to his present wife 〈◊〉 second Daughter of Sr. Tho● W●●●worth of Emprall in Yorkshire K ● . Edward Braba●on of Bally arthur in the County of Wic●loe in Ireland Esqr. second son to the Right Honourable Edward Earle of ●eath deceased . William L●ggan of Butlers marston in Warwickshire Esqr● now maried to 〈◊〉 daughter to 〈◊〉 Newsham of Chadhurst in the s d County Esq r Henry Brouncker of Roumbold-week in sussex and of Brokedish in Norfolk Esqr. Iames Vernon of St. Martins in the Fields , Esq r Secretary to the R t Noble Iames Duke of Monmouth . Descended from the antient Family of the Vernons of Cheshire who were Barons of Shipbrooke . Thomas Cudmore of Ke●edon in Essex Esqr. son &heire of Thomas Cudmore Esqr. deceased● by Dorothy eldest daughter and Coheire of Sr. Thomas Cecill Kt. son of Tho : Earle of Exeter● by Dorothy daughter & Coheire of Iohn Nevill Ld. Latimer son and heyre of Io : Ld. Latimer by Dorothy daughter and Coheyre of Sr. George Vere . Kt. wch . sd. Sr. Tho : dyed Anno 1002. and ●●eth buried in Stamford Baron in Northa●tons●●mong his Ancestors . Samuel Collins Dr. in Physick , late fellow of Trinity Colledge in Cambridge , onely sonof , Iohn Collins late Parson of Rotherfield in Suss●x , decended from the antient Family of the Collins of the Countys of Somerset● and Devonshire he wa●● First maried to Ann , eldest daughter of Iohn : Bodenham Esqr. descended from the family of the Bodenhams of Wiltshi● and Herefordshire . And now to Dame Katherine Countess● Dow●g●● of Carnwath in scotland , daughter of Io : Abington of Dowdes well in Glocestershire Esqr. descended from the antient Family of the Abingtons . OF ESQUIRES . CHAP. XXV . ALTHOUGH by the Civil Law there be no Gentlemen of Title under Knights , but all the rest went under the name of People ; yet with us there are in this rank which have names of Preheminence , whereby they are in Degree above the rest , as Esquires and Gentlemen , all which give Ensigns of Coats of Arms , and thereby are distinguished from the meaner People ; in which respect Bartoll's Tract de Ensignes calleth them Noble : but yet of weak Nobility ; for it hath no further Prerogative in it , than it makes them differ from the baser sort of People . Of these two sorts of Gentlemen with us , the Esquire hath the Priority . But it seemeth if an Esquire be named Gentleman , or a Gentleman called an Esquire , it is no Offence or Fault in Legal Proceedings . Esquire seemeth by the common Name we give him in Latin , to have his Original either for that he carried the Armour of the King , Duke , or other great Personage ; as we read not only in Scripture , as Saul and Ionathan had their Armour-bearers ; but in Poets and other profane Stories , we find that Troclus was Achilles's Armour-bearer , and Clytus Alexander's the Great ; whereupon some write , that he whom we call Armiger in Latin is a Footman , that with a Spear , Shield , or Head-piece followeth an armed Knight in Battel ; or rather , as some other suppose , it is the Footman armed in the Field : But howsoever the words be taken , this is sure , That those men were of good accompt in the old time , as those that won themselves Credit out of War ; and so their Estimation remaineth in their Posterity . And as those were in times before , so are these which are in our days , as descending for the most part from their worthy Ancestors : And our Books of Common Law doth distinguish them thus , viz. Knighthood is a Dignity , but Esquires and Gentlemen are but Names of Worship : And Brooks in the Abridgment of that Case , Title Nosman de Dignitie , 33. saith , To be a Knight est gradus ; but to be an Esquire or Gentleman est status ; for Gradus continet status in se , & non è contrario . Concerning the word Worshipful , read in the printed Book of Titles of Honour the first Part , fol. 124. & sequentia . In times past every Knight had two of these waiting upon him , who carried his Murrion and Shield ; and as inseparable Companions , they stuck close to him ; because of the said Knight their Lord , they held certain Lands in Escuage , like as the Knight himself did of the King by Knights Service . The beginning of giving Arms in Europe amongst Christians is supposed from the Holy Wars ; for the Turks paint them not : And so with us about Henry the Third's time they became here more firmly established : And when the Prince enobled any , he usually gave them the particular of his bearing in Blazon . Iohn Selden in his Preface , fol. 5. where you may also see an Example in King Richard the Second . But now there are five distinct sorts of Esquires observed ; and those that have been already spoken of are now in no request . Of these sorts the principal at this day are the eldest Sons of Viscounts and Lord ; next are all Noblemens younger Sons ; then are accounted those that are select Esquires for the King's Body ; the next are Knights eldest Sons successively ; in a fourth rank are reckoned those unto whom the King himself together with the Title giveth Arms , or createth Esquires by putting about their Necks a Silver Collar of SS . and in former times upon their Heels a pair of white silvered Spurs , whereupon at this day in the Western part of the Kingdom they be called White-spurs , for distinction from Knights who were wont to wear gilt Spurs ; and to the first begotten Sons only of these doth this Title belong . In the fifth and last place be those that have any superiour publick Office in the Kingdom ; as high Sheriffs , Justices of the Peace , &c. or serve the King in any worshipful Calling . At the Coronation of Kings and Queens Knights of the Bath are made , men of worth and honourable blood , to the end that their Majesties may be accompanied in their own Honours , every of which Knights having two Gentlemen to attend them in that Ceremony , who are ever after ( by that Service ) enabled to be Esquires during their lives . But the name of Esquire in ancient time was a name of Charge and Office , and first crept in amongst other Titles of Dignity and Worship ( so far as ever I could observe ) in the Reign of King Richard the Second ; vide Sir Thomas Smith de Republica Anglorum , fol. 26. where he saith , That the Esquire is no distinct Order of the Commonwealth . A Serjeant of the King's Kitchin may bear the Name and Addition of Cook or Esquire , according to the Opinion of Newton : But Ienne saith , Such Officers of his Majestie 's Houshold would be much grieved if they should be named by their Trade or Office. Peradventure in that case the Writ may be good , because of the Statute , viz. 1 Hen. 5. ch . 5. For the Statute is , That he should be named of the Town , Degree , State , Condition , or Mystery ; and when he was named Cook , he observed the Statute , for he hath named him by his own name of Mystery ; and yet he may be in that case an Esquire , and a Cook. If a man be an Esquire or Gentleman only by Office , and loseth the same , he loseth also that title of Gentility . Note , That an Esquire or Gentleman is but an Addition to satisfie the said Statute ; but names of Dignity are parcel of the name . And thereupon if a Praecipe quod reddat be against Iohn a Stiles Yeoman , and recovery is had , whereas the Tenant was a Gentleman , yet the Recovery is good . The same Law where a Release is made to Iohn a Stiles Yeoman , who is a Gentleman ; and where addition is given by the party , where it needeth not by the Law ( being no Dignity ) it is void . So if a deed be made to a Gentleman by the name of a Yeoman ; for there is a great difference between Deeds and Writs . If an Esquire be to be Arraigned of High Treason , he may and ought to be tried per probos & Legales homines , that may expend Forty shillings of Freehold , or be worth One hundred pounds in the value of Goods : And so the Statute that doth speak of men of his condition hath always been put in ure , Dyer 99. b. Note a Knight hath no other priviledge by Statute or Common Law. The King may make an Esquire by Patent , viz. Creamus te Armigerum , &c. Note the Preface to the printed Book of Titles of Honour , 5. b. & 318. By the statute 21. Hen. 8. chap. 13. amongst other things it is enacted , that the Brethren and Sons born in Wedlock of every Knight being Spiritual men , may every of them purchase License or Dispensation , and receive , take and keep two Parsonages , or Benefices with cure of souls . The Son or Sons of any Knight , and heir apparent of an Esquire is priviledge to keep Greyhounds , setting Doggs , or Nets to take Pheasants or Partridges , though he cannot dispend ten pounds in his own right , or in his Wives right of Estate of Inheritance , or of the value of thirty pounds of Estate for life . By the precedent discourse of Knights Batchelors we understand , that all persons by the common Law are compellable to take the degree of Knighthood , or to fine , if they are possest of such an Estate as the King and his Council shall judge fit to maintain that Port in their Country . And his annual Revenue deemed fit for that Dignity , and the fines imposed upon such as refused , we find in our Histories and Statutes to vary with the times ; and certainly the best Esquires , or at least none under the Reputation of Gentlemen were compelled , although 't was at the King's pleasure : And therefore 1 Edw. 2. Stat. de Militibus , the Parliament ( saith Sanderson ) more for ease of the Subject , than profit of the King , limited it to such as had Twenty pounds per Annum and better ; and afterwards 't was raised to Thirty pounds , and a plentiful Revenue in those times , when a Dowry of Three thousand pounds per Annum to a Queen , was deemed a great impoverishment to the Crown and Kingdom : ) but the East and Western part of the World being laid open to the Merchants , money began to be more common , and by consequence Land to its value ; so that in the reign of King Charles the First Forty pounds per Annum being the rate set for such as ought to be made Knights , or to fine , many Farmers , Leaseholders , Merchants , Inholders , and others were called in , whereby above 100 thousand pounds was brought into the Exchequer : Notwithstanding which divers persons made Friends , and took the Degree of Knighthood , which occasioned the extinguishment of the ancient Tax ; For many Esquires by birth , wealth , and education , who bore the chiefest Offices of Honour and Trust in the Commonwealth , disdained to stoop or give place to those new dubbed Knights , countenanced the Complaints of the common people against the Law it self as a grievance , and prevailed so far in the following Parliament , to get it repeal'd , as you may see 17 Car. chap. 20. Since which time the difference between the Degree of Knighthood , and Dignity of an Esquire , consists only in Title , a double rate in the Pole Tax , and priority of place , which ( as I before noted ) is often slighted ; unless he be sufficiently qualified by Birth , Parts , or other generous Accomplishments ; or are Knights of the Field , who are never abridged of their merited Honour , being acquired according to the original Institution of that Degree amongst all Nations . And we see our Parliament men , our Sheriffs , Justices of the Peace , and the Honourable Commanders , and Captains of Cavalry and Infantry , for the most Esquires at their first Election . By the Statute 23 Hen. 6. cap. 15. the Knights of the Shires shall be notable Knights , or else notable Esquires or Gentlemen , born in the same Counties for which they are chosen . See the Statute for the preservation of the Game 22 and 23 Car. 2. by which , and many other Statutes , they are equally priviledged with Knights and other persons of higher Degree . To represent therefore an Esquire , as now defined , is no easie task ; but according to the ancient Rule , I take him for a Foot-Commander . The Atchievement of an Esquire differs from the Knight Batchelors only in the Helmet , as you may here observe . I shall also give you other Examples of Esquires , and amongst the rest the Atchievement of my Honoured Friend Robert Logan ( vulgarly written Login ) Son and Heir to Iohn Logan , Lord of the Mannor of Idbury in Oxfordshire , who was of the ancient House of Restalridge in Scotland , unfortunately ruined for their Loyalty to Mary Queen of Scots : He succeeded his Father at Idbury , was High Sheriff of the County ; a man eminent for his Virtue and Learning ( amongst whose prayers this Manuscript was found ) exemplar in his life for Charity and Conversation . THE DEFINITION OR DESCRIPTION OF THE GENTRY OR Civil Nobility OF ENGLAND . CHAP. XXVI . GEntleman , Generosus , seemeth to be made of two words , the one French ( Gentil ) honestus vel honesta parente natus ; the other Saxon ( Man ) as if you would say a man well born : And under this name are all comprized , that are above Yeomen and Artificers ; so that Nobles are truly called Gentlemen . By the Course and Custome of England , Nobility is either Major or Minor. Major contains all Titles and Degrees from Knighthood upwards . Minor all from Barons downwards . Mr. William Mainstone Alias Mayneston of ye. Citty of London Merchant , Lineally descended from Thomas Mainston of Vrchinfield in Herefordshire Gent : Temps Edw : ye. 3d. now Maried to Penelope Daughte● To Sr : Thomas Iones of Shrewsbury in ye● County of Salop Kt. one of ye. Iustices of his mat ys . Court of K-Bench Iohn Bourne of More feilds in the parish of St. Leonards Shoreditch in Middz Dr. in Phisicks● non maried to Eleanor daughter of George Shyres of Wakefield in Yorkshir Batche●●● in Divinity . Iohn Rowe of ye. Citty of Bristoll Gent. Lineally descended from : ye. antient : family of ye. Rowes of Windley hill : in Derbyshire : Which Said Iohn is now maried : to Lucy Sister & Coheyre of An●thony Hungerford Son & heyre : of Anthony Hūgerford of ye. Lea in Wiltshire Esq : Mr. Peter Vandeput of the Citty of London Merchant : Iohn Btome of Sevenoke in Kent Gent. : Ric●ard Btome of Chobham in the Parish of Westham in Ess●●● Gent. : Richard Whitworth of Adbaston in the County of Stafford Gentleman . Mr. Iohn Vanheck of ye. Citty of London Merchant descended of a Dutchfamily of that name : This C●at● Armour●● borne by the Stanleys of Devonshire : and is Engraven at the Charge of Mr. Edward Stanley of Bamstable in the Sd● County , agreat Lover of Heraldry , and Promoter of Publique Vndertakeings : Nicholas Eyre of London Gent : Descended from a Antient Family of that name Iohn Farrington of ye. Citty of London Merchant descended of ye. Farringtons of Verdon near Faringtonheath in Lancashire . a Family of good Account and Antiquity . Iohn Gregorie of St. Margarets Westminster in Middlesex Gentleman son of Leiutenant Collonell William Gregorie of East Stockwith in Lincolnshire Esq a great sufferer for his maty . in ye. Late Vnhappy warrs . Mr. Thomas Shaw of the Citty of London Merchant now Maried to Deborah daughter of Roger Reeva Late Cittizen of London . R●lph Marshall Gen̄t . Secretary to th● R ● . honble William Earle of Craven , des●n●ded : from ye. family : of ye. Marshalls of yorkshire Fran●is Lunde of Parsons Green in ye. Parish of Fūtham in Middlesex Gen̄t . descended fr●m the Family of Lunde in ye. County of Yorke● ●●chard Stratford of Hawling and nether Ge●● 〈◊〉 Glocestershire Gen t , descended from the● Ancient family of ye. Stra●fords of Farmc●●●n the Said County . Thomas Glover of Raine Hill in Lancashire● Gent. now Maried to Rebecca daughter of Ninian Buther Staplehurst in Kent Gent. But if a Gentleman be sued by addition of Husbandman , he may say he is a Gentleman , and demand Judgment of the Writ without saying ( and not Husbandman ; ) For a Gentleman may be a Husbandman , but he shall be sued by his Addition most worthy : For a Gentleman of what Estate soever he be , although he go to plough and common labour for his maintenance , yet he is a Gentleman , and shall not be named in legal Proceedings Yeoman , Husbandman , or Labourer . If a Gentleman be bound an Apprentice to a Merchant , or other Trade , he hath not thereby lost his Degree of Gentility . But if a Recovery be had against a Gentleman by the name of a Yeoman , in which case no Action is necessary , then it is no Error : So if any Deed or Obligation be made to him by the name of Yeoman . If a Capias go against A. B. Yeoman , and if the Sheriff take A. B. Gentleman , an Action of false imprisonment lieth against the Sheriff : But if A. B. Yeoman be Indicted , and A. B. Gentleman be produced , being the same man intended , it is good . If a man be a Gentleman by Office only , and loseth the same , then doth he also lose his Gentility . By the Statute 5 Eliz. chap. 4. intituled An Act touching Orders for Artificers , Labourers , Servants of Husbandry , and Apprentices , amongst other things it is declared , That a Gentleman born , &c. shall not be compelled to serve in Husbandry . If any Falcon be lost , and is found , it shall be brought to the Sheriff , who must make Proclamation , and if the owner come not within four Months , then if the ●inder be a simple man , the Sheriff may keep the Hawk , making agreement with him that took him : But if he be a Gentleman , and of Estate to have and keep a Falcon , then the Sheriff ought to deliver to him the said Falcon , taking of him reasonable costs for the time that he had him in Custody . A Commission is made to take Children into Cathedral Churches , &c. one in anothers places , where Children are instructed to sing for the furnishing of the King's Chappel : These general words , by construction of Law , have a reasonable intendment , viz. That such Children , who be brought up and taught to sing to get their living by it , those may be taken for the King's Service in his Chappel , and it shall be a good preferment to them ; but the Sons of Gentlemen , or any other that are taught to sing for their Ornament or Recreation , and not merely for their livelyhoods , may not be taken against their Wills , or the consent of their Parents and Friends . And so it was resolved by the two Chief Justices , and all the Court of Star-Chamber , Anno 43 Eliz. in the Case of one Evans , who had by colour of such Letters Patents taken the Son of one Clifton a Gentlemen of quality in Norfolk , who was taught to sing for his Recreation ; which Evans for the same offence was grievously punished . And to the end it may withal appear , what Degrees of Nobility and Gentry were in the Realm before the coming of the Normans , and by what merits men might ascend , and be promoted to the same , I will here set down the Copy of an English or Saxon Antiquity , which you may read in Lambert's Perambulation of Kent , fol. 364. and Englished thus : It was sometimes in the English Laws , That the People and Laws were in Reputation , and then were the wisest of the People worship-worthy each in his degree , Earl and Churle , Theyne and Undertheyne . And if a Churle so thrived , that he had fully five Hides of Land of his own , a Church and a Kitchin , a Bell-house and a Gate , a Seat and a several Office in the King's Hall , then was he thenceforth the Theynes right-worthy : And if a Theyne so thrived , that he served the King on his Journey , rode in his Houshold , if he then had a Theyne which him followed , who to the King's Expectation five Hides had , and in the King's Palace his Lord served , and thrice with his Errand had gone to the King , he might afterwards with his fore-oath his Lord's part play at any need ; and of a Theyne that he became an Earl , then was thenceforth an Earl rightworthy . And if a Merchant-man so thrived , that he passed over the wide Sea thrice of his own Craft , he was thenceforth the Theynes right-worthy . And if a Scholar so thrived through Learning , that he had degree and served Christ , he was thenceforth of Dignity and Peace so much worthy , as thereunto belonged , unless he forfeit , so that he the use of his Degree remit . It is observed , That the Saxons out of all those Trades of life which be conversant in gain , admit to the Estate of Gentry such only , as encreased by honest Husbandry or plentiful Merchandize . Of the first of which Cicero affirmeth , that there is nothing meeter for a freeborn man , nor no man fitter to make braver Souldier : And of the other , that 't is prize-worthy also , if at the length , being satisfied with gain , as it hath often come from the Sea to the Haven , so it changeth from the Haven into Lands and Possessions . And therefore whereas Gervasius Tilburiensis in his Observations of the Exchequer , accounted it an abusing of a Gentleman to occupy publicum mercimonium , common buying and selling ; it ought to be referred to the other two parts of Merchandize , that is to a Negotiation , which is retailing and keeping of an open shop , and to a Function , which is to exercise Mercery , or as some call it , to play the Chapman , and not to Navigation , which ( as you see ) is the only laudable part of all buying and selling . And again , whereas by the Statute of Magna Charta , chap. 6. and Merton , chap. 7. it was a discouragement for a Ward in Chivalry , which in old time was as much as to say a Gentleman , to be married to the Daughter of a Burgess ; I think that it ought to be restrained to such only as professed Handycrafts , or those baser Arts of buying and selling to get their living by . But to shew how much the case is now altered for the honour of Tradesmen , it may be remembred , that Henry the Eighth thought it no disparagement to him , when he quitted his Queen , to take Anne the Daughter of Thomas Bullen , sometime Mayor of London , to his Wife . The Statute of Westminster 2. chap. 1. which was made in the Thirteenth of King Edward the First , was procured especially at the desire of Gentlemen , for the preservation of their Lands and Hereditaments , together with their Surnames and Families ; and therefore one calleth this Statute Gentilitium municipale ; and the Lawyers call it Ius Taliatum & Taliabile . The Children only of Gentlemen were wont to be admitted into the Inns of Court , and thereby it came to pass , that there was scant any man found ( in former ages ) within the Realm skilful and cunning in the Law , except he were a Gentleman born , and came of a good House ; for they , more than any other , have a special care of their Nobility , and to the preservation of their Honour and Fame : For in these Inns of Court are ( or at leastwise should be ) Vertues studied , and Vices exiled ; so that for the endowment of Vertue , and abandoning of Vice , Knights and Barons , with other States and Noblemen of the Realm , place their Children in those Inns , though they desire not to have them learned in the Laws , nor to have them live by the practise thereof , but only upon their Parents allowance . You have heard how cheap Gentility is purchased by the Common Law : but if you look more strictly unto the perfection thereof , you will find it more honourable ; for Gentlemen well descended and qualified , have always been of such repute in England , that none of the higher Nobility , no nor the King himself , have thought it any disparagement to make them their Companions . Therefore I shall set down the priviledges due unto them , according to the Laws of Honour , as I find them collected out of Sir Iohn Ferne , Sir William Segar , Mr. Carter in his Analysis of Honour , and other good Authors : It is thus found . The Priviledges of the Gentry . 1. PRo honore sustinendo ; If a Churle or Peasant do detract from the honour of Gentleman , he hath a remedy in Law , actione injuriarum ; but if by one Gentleman to another , the Combat was anciently allowed . 2. In equal Crimes a Gentleman shall be punishable with more favour than the Churle , provided the Crime be not Heresie , Treason , or excessive Contumacy . 3. The many Observances and Ceremonial Respects , that a Gentleman is and ought to be honoured with by the Churle or Ungentle . 4. In giving Evidence , the Testimony of a Gentleman is more authentick than a Clowns . 5. In Election of Magistrates and Officers by Vote , the Suffrage of a Gentleman should take place of an Ignoble Person . 6. A Gentleman should be excused from base Services , Impositions and Duties both Real and Personal . 7. A ●●ntleman condemned to death ought not to be ●anged , but beheaded , and his Examination taken without Torture . 8. To take down the Coat-Armour of any Gentleman , to deface his Monument , or offer Violence to any Ensign of the de●eased Noble , is as to lay buffets on the face of him if alive , and punishment is due accordingly . 9. A Clown may not Challenge a Gentleman to Combat , quia conditiones ●mpares . Many other are the Priviledges due to Gentlemen , which I forbear to repeat , referring the Reader to the Books before cited . For the protection and defence of this Civil Dignity they have three Laws : The first , Ius agnitionis , the right or law of descent for the kindred of the Father's side : The second , Ius Stirpis , for the Family in general : The third , Ius Gentilitatis , a law for the descent in Noble Families , which Tully esteemed most excellent ; by which Law a Gentleman of Blood and Coat-Armour perfectly possessing Vertue was only priviledged . To make that perfection in Blood , a Lineal Descent from Atavus , Proavus , Avus , and Pater on the Fathers side was required ; and as much on his Mothers line ; than he is not only a Gentleman of perfect Blood , but of his Ancestors too . The neglect of which Laws hath introduced other sorts of Gentleman , viz. men that assume that Dignity , but are neither so by Blood nor Coat-Armour : which style only hurries them to an unruly pride , which indeed is but rude and false honour , termed by Sir Iohn Ferne Apocriphate , and debarred of all priviledge of Gentility . These Gentlemen nomine non re , saith he , are the Students of Law , Grooms of his Majesties Palace , Sons of Churls made Priests or Canons , &c. or such as have received Degrees in Schools , or born Office in the City , by which they are styled Gentlemen , yet have they no right to Coat-Armour by reason thereof . As to the Student of the Law , Sir I. Ferne allows him the best a●●urance of his title of Gentleman of all these irregular Gentlemen , as he terms them , because he is named in some Acts of Parliament ; yet ( he saith ) he is also debarred of all honour and priviledge by the Law of Arms. And anciently none were admitted into the Inns o● Court ( as before noted ) but such as were Gentlem●● 〈◊〉 Blood , be their merits never so great : ●or were the Church Dignities and Preferments bestowed indifferently amongst the Vulgar . The Jews confined their Prie●●hood to a Family ; but Ieroboam debased it in his Kingdom , by preferring the basest of his people to the best of duties . The Russians and some other Nations admit none to the study of the Law but Gentlemens younger Sons . The decayed Families in France are supported and receive new life from the Court , Camp , Law and Ecclesiastical Preferments ; take the most solemn and serious , who contemn the World ; if such are wanting , to fill up their Vacancies the Ingeniouser sort of the Plebeans are admitted : by which means their Church and State is in e●●eem and reverence , being filled most commonly with the best Blood and Noblest by Birth amongst them ; whereas with us every Clown , that can spare but mony to bring up his Son ●or any of those Studies , bereaves the Gentry of those Benefices , and robs them of their support ; which grand abuse is the cause of the general Corruption in the State Civil and Ecclesiastick ; whereas were this preferment made peculiar to the Gentry , they would stand more upon their Honour , and live without being a Burthen to their Relations . The Atchievement of a Gentleman hath no difference with that of an Esquire , both their Helmets being close and sideways . OF YEOMEN . CHAP. XXVII . THE Yeomen or Common People ( for so are they called of the Saxon word Zemen , which signifies Common ) who have some Lands of their own to live upon : For a Carn of Land , or a Plough Land , was in ancient time of the yearly value of five Nobles , and this was the Living of a Stokeman or Yeoman : And in our Law they are called Legal● homines , a word familiar in Writs and Inquests . And by divers Statutes it hath been enacted , That none shall pass in any Inquest unless they had forty shillings Free-hold in yearly Revenue , which maketh ( if the most value were taken to the proportion of moneys ) above Sixteen pounds of currant money at this present : And by the Statute of 27 Eliz. ch . 6. every Juror must have Forty pounds Lands . In the end of the Statute made 23 Hen. 6. c. 15. concerning the Election of Knights for the Parliament , it is ordered and expresly provided , That no man shall be such Knight , which standeth in the degree of a Yeoman . It appeareth in Lambert's Perambulation of Kent , 367. that this Saxon word Telphioneman was given to the Theyne or Gentleman , because his life was valued at One thousand two hundred shillings ; and in those days the lives of all men were rated at certain sums of Money : To the Churle or Yeoman , because the price of his head was taxed at Two hundred shillings . Which things , if it were not expresly set forth in sundry old Laws yet extant , might well enough be found in the Etymology of the words themselves , the one called a Twelve hundred man , and the other a Twyhind for a man of Two hundred . And in this Estate they pleased themselves , insomuch that a man might ( and also now may ) find sundry Yeomen , though otherwise comparable for wealth with many of the Gentile sort , that will not yet for that change their condition , nor desire to be appareled with the title of Gentry . By the Common Law it may appear in 1 Ed. 2. de Militibus , and 7 Hen. 6. 15. a. men that had Lands to the value of Twenty pounds per annum , were compellable at the King's pleasure to take upon them the Order of Knighthood ; and upon Summons there came a Yeoman who might expend a hundred Marks per annum , and the Court was in doubt how they might put him off ; and at last he was waved , because he came the second day . By this sort of men the trial of Causes in the Country proceedeth ordinarily ; for of them there are greater number in England than in any other place , and they also of a more plentiful livelyhood ; and therefore it cometh to pass , that men of this Country are more apt and fit to discern in doubtful Cases and Causes of great examination and trial , than are men wholly given to moil in the ground , to whom that Rural exercise engendreth rudeness of wit and mind . And many Franklins and Yeomen there are so near adjoyning , as you may make a Jury without difficulty ; for there be many of them , that are able to expend One or two hundred pounds per Annum . As in the ancient time the Senators of Rome were elected a Censu ; and as with us in conferring of Nobility , respect is had to their Revenues , by which their Dignity and Nobility may be supported and maintained . So the Wisdom of this Realm hath of ancient time provided , that none shall pass upon Juries for the trial of any matter real or personal , or upon any criminal cause , but such as besides their Moveables have Lands for estate of life at the least to a competent value , lest for need or poverty such Jurors might easily be corrupted or suborned . And in all Cases and Causes the Law hath conceived a better Opinion of those that have Lands and Tenements , or otherwise are of worth in moveable Goods , that such will commit or omit nothing , that may any way be prejudicial to their estimation , or which may endanger their Estates , than it hath of Artificers , Retailers , Labourers , or such like ; of whom Tully saith , Nihil proficiuntur , nisi ad modum mentiuntur . And by divers Statutes certain Immunities are given to men of Quality , which are denied to the Vulgar sort of People : Read hereof amongst other , 1 Iac. cap. 127. By the Statute of 2 Hen. 4. chap. 27. amongst other things it is enacted , That no Yeoman should take or wear any Livery of any Lord upon pain of imprisonment , and to make Fine at the King's will and pleasure . These Yeomen were famous in our Forefathers days for Archery and Manhood ; our Infantry , which so often conquered the French , and repuls'd the Scots , were composed of them , as are our Militia at present , who through want of use and good discipline are much degenerated from their Ancestors valour and hardiness . As the Nobility , Gentry , and Clergy have certain priviledges peculiar to themselves ; so have the Commonalty of England beyond the Subjects of other Monarchs . No Freeman of England ought to be imprisoned , outed of his possession , dis●eised of his Freehold , without Order of Law and just cause shewed . To him that is imprisoned may not be denied a Habeas Corpus , if it be desired ; and if no just cause be alledged , and the same be returned upon a Habeas Corpus , the Prisoner is to be set at liberty . By Magna Charta 9 Hen. 3. no Souldier can be quartered in any House except Inns , and other publick Victualling-houses , in time of peace , without the Owners consent , by the Petition of Right , 3 Car. 1. No Taxes , Loans , or Benevolences can be imposed but by Act of Parliament , idem . The Yeomanry are not to be prest to serve as a Souldier in the Wars , unless bound by Tenure , which is now abolished : Nor are the Trained Bands compelled to march out of the Kingdom , or be transported beyond Sea , otherwise than by the Law of the Kingdom ought to be done : Nor is any one to be compelled to bear his own Arms , finding one sufficient man qualified according to the Act aforementioned . No Freeman is to be tried but by his equals , nor condemned but by the Laws of the Land. These and many other Freedoms make them most happy , did they but know it ; and should oblige them to their Alegiance to their Prince , under whose power and government themselves , their Rights and Priviledges are preserved , and quietly enjoyed : yet such is the inconstancy of mens nature , not to be contented with the bliss they enjoy . THE SECOND PART OF Honour Civil : Treating of the CUSTOMS , GOVERNMENT , PRIVILEDGES , ARMORIAL ENSIGNS of HONOUR OF THE City of London . With the like Account of the CITIES of ENGLAND : Together with the Chief Town Corporate in each COUNTY of ENGLAND . LONDON , Printed by Samuel Roycroft , Anno Dom. MDCLXXVIII . To the Right Honourable and Honourable the Right Worshipfull and Worshipfull the Governors , Deputy Governors , Treasurers , Consulls Assistants &c a. of these severall Incorporated Companys of Merchants , This Plate is humbly dedicated By your Honours and Worships most humble Servant Richard Blome The Atchivement of the Honourable Citty of LONDON , with the Armes of the Right Honourable the Lord Mayor , the Court of Aldermen and Sheriffs , for the yeare of our Lord 1678. The Right Honourable Sr. Iames Edwards Knight , Lord Mayor of the honble Citty of London for the yeare 1678 THE SECOND PART OF Honour Civil : CHAP. I. ALL Chronologers and Antiquaries do agree , that in the Infancy of the Worlds Creation , men had no habitation other than Woods , Groves , bushy Thickets , Caves , and Concavities in Rocks and Sandy Grounds to shelter themselves from the wind and weather ; which places they fenced about with sticks , heaps of stones , or the like , to preserve them from ravenous Beasts , which otherwise would annoy them . Then by degrees ( as the World increased , and Inconvenience being the Mother of Invention ) they made themselves small Hutts ; from Hutts they came to build Houses , and to cohabit in Hamlets or Villages , and from thence sprang up Towns , Cities , Castles , and Fortified Places . Then the Inhabitants of one City or Place waged warr against those of another , and the Victorious enlarged their Territories , and made them their Tributaries ; and thus increasing in number of Inhabitants , formed to themselves a Civil Government , and growing in Riches , some studied one Art , and some another , some addicted themselves to Traffick , whilst others imployed their time in Martial Affairs . And what are Cities in these our days , but the nursery , habitation , and receptacle of worthy , ingenious , wealthy , and munificent brave men ; which made Charles the Quint much to glory that he was a Citizen of Ghent . And Henry the Great , in answer to a Letter of the King of Spains , wherein he declared his many Titles , styled himself only Henry King of France , and Burgess of Paris . Since then that Cities are of such renown , and the Inhabitants thereof so signal in Coat-Armour , as having such a mixture and affinity with the Gentry , it will be necessary that in this Treatise we take notice of our Cities and chief Towns Corporate ( being places of such concern to the Nation ) as to their Priviledges , Governments , Courts of Judicature , Magistrates , their Armorial Badges belonging as well to the said Cities and Towns , as to their several Incorporated Companies in London : And first with London . LONDON the Metropolis , Mistress , and bravery of all England , the King's Chamber and Epitomy of the whole Kingdom , of so great Antiquity and Fame in other Countreys , that it wanteth no mans commendation As to its rise , various are the Opinions of Writers . Ptolomy , Tacitus , and Antoninus calls her Londinium , or Longidinium ; others , Augusta , Troja nova , or Troynovant ; others , Caer-Lud , and others Dinas Belin. It is seated no less pleasantly than commodiously on the Banks of the Thames , which in its hasty ( but not rapid ) course towards the Sea saluteth its walls , and payeth its duty to her , dividing it into two ( but unequal ) parts , which are again joyned together by a most stately Stone-Bridge , sustained by nineteen great Arches , and so furnished with Houses , that it seemeth rather a Street than a Bridge . And beyond the said Bridge , the Thames with a deep and safe Channel , gives entertainment to Ships of very considerable Burthen , which daily bring in their rich Ladings from the known parts of the traded World. And if we consider its great Riches and Traffick with other Nations ; its Jurisdiction and Bounds , being about twelve or fifteen miles in Circuit ; its populousness and strength in Men and Ammunition both for Sea and Land Service ; it s well Government , both Civil and Ecclesiastical ; the civility , ingenuity , and experience of its Inhabitants in Letters , Arts , Sciences , Manufactures , and Martial Affairs ; its stately Buildings , both publick and private ; as the Palaces of his Majesty , Whitehall , St. Iames's , and Somerse●-houses ; the several Houses of the Nobility ; its Courts of Judicature , and Houses of Parliament ; its Collegiate and other Churches for Divine Service ; its Inns of Court and Chancery ; its Royal Exchange , built by Sir Thomas Gresham ; its Custome-house ; its Tower , which contains a Palace , a Prison , Mint , Armory , Wardrobe , and Artillery ; its Guild-hall , where the Lord Mayor and Court of Aldermen meet about the concerns of the City , and where their Courts of Judicature are kept ; its Halls for the several Companies ; its Colledges and Free-Schools ; its Hospitals and Alms-houses ; its Theatres , Tennis-Courts , and places of Recreation ; and its great plenty of all sorts of Provision which its Shambles and Markets are stored with ; it may be deservedly styled the Mistress of the World. It s Government . This famous City , when under the Government of the Britains , Romans , and Saxons , was destroyed by the Danes : but AElfred , King of the West-Saxons , having reduced the whole Land to one Monarchy , repaired and re-peopled it , and committed the custody thereof to his Son in Law Alhered Earl of Mercia , after whose decease it returned to King Edward , sirnamed the Elder , who had it governed under him by Port-Graves , or Port-Reves , which in divers Records are styled Vicecomites , Viscounties , or Sheriffs . In the first of King Richard the first , the Citizens obtained to be governed by two Bailiffs or Sheriffs , and afterwards obtained to have a Mayor for their principal Magistrate , the first of which was Henry Fitz-Alwyn a Draper , who was constituted , and so continued four and twenty years . The City within the Walls and Freedom thereof is divided into six and twenty Wards , and the government thereof committed to the care of as many grave Citizens of good repute and quality , which are Aldermen , each of which having the overseeing of his respective Ward . And besides these Aldermen , there are two Sheriffs which are annually chosen , as also a Lord Mayor , who according to his degree and seigniority of being Alderman after Sheriff , is by the consent of the Citizens ( that is the Livery-men of each Company ) yearly elected ; and these are clothed in Scarlet Gowns , and wear Gold Chains ; and as Coadjutors , every Alderman hath his Deputy of the Ward , as also Common-Councel-men . This City by their Charter hath ample and large Priviledges and Immunities granted unto it , which hath been confirmed and enlarged by most of our Kings and Queens ; as the making of Acts and Ordinances for the regulation and better government of the several Incorporated Companies , and the Members thereof , so as they are not repugnant to the Law of the Nation , and detriment of the King ; they have also the power of keeping of Courts , holding Pleas , Assizes , and Goal Delivery ; with the punishment of Offenders by Fine , Imprisonment , or Death , as occasion requireth . The Citizens are not constrained to go out of the said City to warr , without an emergent occasion to suppress a Foreign Invasion ; they may pass Toll-free throughout all England ; they have a Common Seal , and Armorial Ensigns of Honour ; and for Recreation have Free-warren or Liberty to hunt about the said City ; with many other Immunities too tedious to set down . Courts appropriate to the City . The Hustings is a Court of great Antiquity and Concern , being to preserve the Rights , Laws , Franchises , Customs , and Dignities of the said City , and is kept by the Lord Mayor and Aldermen every Tuesday . The Court of Requests or Conscience , the Judges whereof are some of the Common-Councel-men , who are monthly chosen by the Lord Mayor and Aldermen , and sit twice every week to hear and determine all matters brought before them ( betwixt Freemen ) where the just Debt or Dammage doth not exceed forty shillings ; for the proof of which , the Plaintiffs Oath is sufficient for them to award the Defendant to pay the same , either by present ( or weekly ) payment , as the said Judges shall think fit ; which sentence cannot be avoided , for it is to be presum'd , that no man ( especially of some repute , which is to be considered of ) will forswear himself for so small a sum of money . The Lord Mayor's Court , being an ancient Court of Record , held every Tuesday and Thursday by the Mayor and Aldermen , and is to redress and correct the errors and defaults which happen in the Government of the City , and indeed taketh cognizance of all matters wich concern the City for Receipts and Payments of money , the granting Leases , purchasing of Lands , building and repairing of Houses , and the like , and appointing their several Officers to look after the same . The two Sheriffs Courts ● one for each Compter , is on Wednesdays and Fridays for Trials for Woodstreet Compter , and on Thursdays and Saturdays for the Poultrey Compter : and each Court hath its Judge , which is a Lawyer of good repute , for the hearing and trial of all Actions brought before them ; but if the Action brought be above 5 l. it may be by the Defendant removed to a higher Court. And to these Courts belong four Counsellors , eight Attorneys , besides Secondaries , Clerks , Keepers of the Compters , sixteen Sergeants and their Yeomen , with other Sub-Officers . The Court of Orphans , which medleth with the Estates of deceased Citizens , to provide for the Orphans until they come to Age , and to see that an equal division of the Estate be made , the City being their Guardians . The Court of Common-Councel , much resembling the High Court of Parliament , consisting of the Lord Mayor and Court of Aldermen , which may be termed the Higher House , and the Common-Councel the Lower House : and these make and constitute Laws and Acts as aforesaid , which are binding to the Inhabitants . The Court of the Chamberlain for the binding and making free Apprentices , and for the reforming grievances betwixt the Master and the Apprentice : and this is an Office of great Trust , and of such Power , that no Apprentice ( if not sworn by him ) can set up and open Shop ; and those that disobey his Summons , he hath power to Imprison or Fine . This Office is at present committed to the care of Sir Thomas Player Kt. a Person every way fit for so great a Trust. The Courts of the Coroner and Escheater , which doth belong to the Lord Mayor . The Court of Policies and Assurances for Merchants . The Court of Halmote , which is kept by the Master , Wardens , and Court of Assistance of every Company generally every month . The Court of Wardmote , or Wardmote Inquest for the whole City , being divided into six and twenty Wards , every Ward having such an Inquest consisting of about twelve or sixteen of the Inhabitants thereof , who meet at every Christmass time , and enquire after the Disorders and Abuses of Tradesmen in their Weights , Measures , and the like ; and according to their Misdemeanours they make their Presentments . The Sessions of Oyer and Terminer , and Goal Delivery of Newgate for the City of London and County of Middlesex , holden every month at Iustice-hall in the Old Baily for the trial of Felons , the Lord Mayor being cheif Judge , and hath power of Reprieving . The Court for the conservation of the Water , and Rivers of Thames and Medway . The Court of the Tower , held within the Verge of the City before the Steward by Prescription , of Debt , Trespass , and other Actions . There is no Magistrate in Europe that liveth in greater state , and hath more power than the Lord Mayor of this City , which is evident by the noble Entertainment given to Strangers , and by his great attendance both at home and abroad : for besides the abundance of inferiour Officers , he hath his Sword-Bearer , Common Hunt , Common Cryer , and four Water Bailiffs , which by their places are Esquires ; then the Coroner , three Sergeant-Carvers , three Sergeants of the Chamber , a Sergeant of the Channel , four Yeoman of the Water-side , the Under-water-Bailiff , two Yeoman of the Chamber , with divers others . The publick Officers belonging to this City are the two Sheriffs , the Recorder , the Chamberlain , the Common Sergeant , the Town Clerk , and the Remembrancer , who by their places are Esquires . The Sheriffs ( who are persons of repute and ability ) are annually by the Commons ( that is the Livery-men of each Company ) in formality chosen on Midsomer-day ; and the day after Michaelmass the Lord Mayor and Aldermen go with them to the Exchequer-Chamber at Westminster , where they are presented and sworn , and the two old Sheriffs also sworn to their Accounts . On Simon and Iudes day the old Lord Mayor being attended with the Aldermen and Sheriffs in their formalities , go to the Hustings Court , where the Lord Mayor elect taketh his Oath , and receiveth from the Chamberlain the Scepter , the Keys of the Common Seal , and the Seal of the Majoralty , and from the Sword-Bearer the Sword , all which according to custom he delivereth to them again . On the day following in the morning , the old Lord Mayor , with the Aldermen and Sheriffs , attend the Mayor elect from his House to Guild-hall , from whence in their formalities they go to the Vintrey , and take Barge to Westminster , being attended by the Livery-men of divers of the Companies in their Barges , which are bedecked with Banners , Pennons , and Streamers of their Arms , &c. which with their Musick makes a pleasing show . Being come to Westminster-hall , having saluted the Judges , they go up to the Exchequer Barr , where the Lord Mayor t●keth his Oath , and after some usual Ceremonies in the Hall and at the Abby , in seeing the Tombs , they return to their Barges , and are rowed back to London , & being landed , go to the Guild-hall in great pomp , where a most stately Dinner is prepared , as well for the Lord Mayor , Aldermen , Sheriffs , and the several Companies , as for the Nobility , Judges , and Gentry that are invited to the said Feast , which oft-times is graced with the Royal Presence of their Majesties the King and Queen , and the Duke of York , &c. The Ceremony of the day being ended , the Lord Mayor is attended to his House , where he liveth in great grandure during his Majoralty , looking after the Affairs of the City , to whose fatherly care the Government thereof is committed . These , with other Ceremonies in the electing and swearing the Lord Mayor and Sheriffs , being largely treated of in Stow's Survey , and Howel's Londinensis , I forbear to speak further of them here , but referr the Reader . A List of the Names of the Lord Mayor , Aldermen , and Sheriffs that for this present year 1678 have the government of this Honourable City , with the Names of the six and twenty Wards to which the said Aldermen do belong , viz. THe Right Honourable Sir Iames Edwards Kt. Lord Mayor , and Alderman of Candlewick Ward , Sir Richard Chiverton of the Ward of Bridge without , Kt. Sir Thomas Allen of Aldgate Ward , Knight and Baronet , Sir Iohn Frederick of Coleman-street Ward , Kt. Sir Iohn Robinson of Tower-street Ward , Knight , Baronet , and Lieutenant of the Tower of London , Sir Iohn Laurence of Queen-hith Ward , Kt. Sir Thomas Bludworth of Aldersgate-street Ward , Kt. Sir William Turner of Castle-Baynards Ward , Kt. Sir George Waterman of Brides Ward within , Kt. Sir Robert Hanson of Basingshaw Ward , Kt. Sir William Hooker of Cornhill Ward , Kt. Sir Robert Vyner of Langborn ward , Knight and Baronet , Sir Ioseph Sheldon of Bishops-gate ward , Kt. Sir Thomas Davies of Farendon ward without , Kt. Sir Francis Chaplin of the Vintrey ward , Kt. Sir Robert Clayton of Cheap ward , Kt. Sir Patience Ward of Farendon ward within , Kt. Sir Iohn Moore of Walbrook ward , Kt. Sir William Prichard of Bread-street ward , Kt. Sir Henry Tulse of Bread-street ward , Kt. Sir Iames Smith of Portsoken ward , Kt. Sir Nathaniel Herne of Billingsgate ward , Kt. Sir Robert Ieffreys of Cordwainer ward , Kt. Sir Iohn Shorter of Cripple-gate ward , Kt. Sir Thomas Gold of Dowgate ward , Kt. and Sir William Rawstorne of Limestreet ward , Kt. The Sheriffs for this year are Sir Richard How and Sir Iohn Chapman , Knights . Having thus in brief treated of the Government of the City , with their Immunities , Priviledges , Courts of Judicature , &c. in general , in the next place we will treat of each particular Incorporated Company , as Stems thereof . And first with the several Companies of Merchants , next with the twelve chief Companies out of which the Lord Mayor is to be Annually chosen , and so end with the other Companies , as Stars of a less magnitude . The East-India Company , though not the ancientest , yet the most honourable and eminent , was first Incorporated in the year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and since confirmed , with divers other Priviledges added to their Charter by succeeding Kings , having now power of making Acts and Ordinances , so as not repugnant to the Law of the Land or detriment of the King , for the good and well government of the said Trade and Company ; likewise power to hear and decide Causes , and to implead , fine , and punish Offenders as they please ; to raise and maintain Souldiers in their Factories , and to man out Ships of warr for their further security , for warr offensive as well as defensive , as occasion requireth ; also the using of a Seal , and the bearing of a Coat of Arms , as it is depicted in the Escocheon of Arms of the several Companies of Merchants . This Company is managed by a joynt stock , which makes them potent , eminent , and rich , and is found several ways to be very advantageous to the Kingdom ; as in their building of Ships , in the imploying and maintaining of thousands , not only in their Ships , but in their Plantations and Factories , as at Surat , Cambaya , Bambay , Curwar , Baticale , Calicut , Fort St. George , Pentapoli , Musulipatan , Ougely , Gonro , Bantam in the Indies , Ormus in Persia ● with some other places of less concern . And to their Presidents , Factors , and other Servants they allow good Salaries , and are raised to higher preferments , with greater Salaries , as their merits deserve . And the great Trade that they drive to these places , exporting such vast quantities of our Manufactures and Commodities , and importing so many sundry and rich Commodities , cannot but make them to be very beneficial to the Nation . This worthy Company , for the better negotiation of their Affairs , is governed by a Governour , Deputy-Governour , and Committ●e consisting of four and twenty , who about the midst of April are Annually elected by the Adventurers of the said Company , of which there must be eight new ones always chosen , and these meet at their House in Leaden-hall-street London , ( called the East-India House ) generally twice a week , and keep Courts ●or the negotiation of their Affairs . The government of this Company for this present year 1678. is committed to the care of Sir Nathaniel Herne Kt. Governour , Major Robert Thomson , Deputy-Governour , and to the Right Honourable George Lord Berkeley , Sir Samuel Barnadiston , Sir Iohn Banks , Baronets , Sir William Thomson , Sir Stephen White , Sir Iames Edwards , Sir Iohn Moore , Sir Iohn Lethulier , Knights , Iosia Child , Iohn Iolliff , Iohn Bathurst , Col. Iohn Clarke , Iames Houblon , Samuel Moyer , Charles Thorold , Thomas Papillon , Esquires ; Mr. Christopher Boone , Mr. Thomas Canham , Mr. Ioseph Herne , Mr. Nathaniel Letton , Mr. Iohn Page , Mr. Edward Rudge , Mr. Daniel Sheldon , and Mr. Ieremy Sambrook , Assistants . The Levant or Turky Company of Merchants , which by their Discovery made the first Trade into the Seigniory of Venice , and then into the Dominions of the Grand Seignior , and including the Trade of the East-Indies , which as then was undiscovered to us by Sea , their goods being brought upon Camels and Ass-negroes to Aleppo and other parts of Turky : but since the discovery of the Indies by Sea , the Trade of this Company is something eclipsed for those Commodities which are now brought us by the East-India Company . The benefit that ariseth to this Nation from this Company , besides the imploying so many Ships and Seamen , is in the Exporting and Importing of so many rich Commodities , and in particular , Clothes both died and drest , at the least thirty thousand pieces yearly , Kersies , Lead , Tinn , Iron , Steel , Wire , Pewter , Furrs , pieces of Eight , Sugar , Hides , Elephants-teeth , Brasill , red and white Lead , Indico , Logwood , Couchaniel , Callicoes , Spices , and several Indian Commodities . And for these they Import raw Silks of Persia , Damascus , Tripoli , &c. also Camblets , Grograins , Grograin-yarn , Mohairs of Angor , Woolls , Cottons , Cotton-yarn of Smyrna and Cyprus , Galls of Mosolo and Toccat , the Coralls and Oyls of Zant , Zeffalonia , Morea , &c. the Drugs of Egypt and Arabia , also Turky-Carpets , Cordovants , Box-wood , Rhubarb , Worm-seed , Sena , Cummin-seed , with several other rich Commodities . This worshipful Company of Merchants was first Incorporated in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and since confirmed by her Successors , and have ample Priviledges and Immunities granted unto them ; as making of Laws and Orders for the well government of the said Fellowship , power of deciding Controversies which arise in the said Company as to their Trade , giving Oaths , imposing Fines , or imprisoning of Offenders according to their discretion , the using of a Publick Seal , and the bearing of a Coat of Arms , as is set forth in the Escocheon of Arms aforesaid . And for the better management of the Affairs of this Honourable Company , they are governed by a Governour , Deputy-Governour , and Court of Assistants , consisting of 18 , who in the Month of February are Annually chosen by a general Consent , out of the Members of the said Company , and these meet and keep Courts monthly , weekly , or as oft as their occasions require , for the management of the concerns of the said Society ; as binding and making free , electing and sending over Consuls , Vice-Consuls , Factors and Servants to Constantinople , Smyrna , Aleppo , Cyprus , and such places where their Factories are kept . The management of the Affairs of this Honourable Company , for this present year 1678. is committed to the care and prudent government of the Right Honourable George Lord Berkeley of Berkeley , whose worthy parts and great love to Traffick makes him every way so fit for it , that the Company for these several years past , have by an unanimous consent elected his Lordship their Governour , Iohn Buckworth Esq Deputy , Mr. Iohn Harvey Treasurer , Mr. Thomas Vernon Husband , Sir Iohn Lethulier Kt. Charles Thorold Esq Iohn Morden Esq Mr. Thomas Pilkington , Mr. Richard Poulter , Mr. Henry Griffith , Mr. Iohn Morice , Mr. Richard Onslow , Mr. Thomas Hartopp , Mr. Walter Conventrey , Mr. William Hedges , Mr. Iasper Clotterbook , Mr. Abraham Wessell , Mr. Richard Nicol , Mr. Bernard Saltonstall , Mr. George Carew . The Russia or Moscovy Company of Merchant Adventurers for discovery of new Trades , was first Incorporated in the beginning of the Reign of King Philip and Queen Mary , upon the Discoveries of Lands , Territories , Seigniories , and Isles by Seas lying Northwards , North-eastwards , and North-westwards from England , and was afterwards confirmed by Act of Parliament in the eighth year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , so that now they enjoy several Immunities and Priviledges ; as to raise Arms for the subduing of Countreys in the limits aforesaid , and to enter thereon , and set up the English Standards ; to make Acts and Ordinances for the good of the said Society , so as they are not repugnant to the Laws of the Kingdom ; to punish Offenders by Fine or Imprisonment , to use a Common Seal , to bear a Coat of Arms , &c. as is here depicted . The Commodities that this Company Exporteth are , woollen Clothes both died and dressed of all sorts , Kersies , Bayes , Cottons , Perpetuances , Fustians , Norwich Stuffs , Lace , Thread , Lead , Tinn , Pewter , Allom , Copper , much defective Wines and Fruits , not fit to be spent in this Kingdom , with most sorts of English Goods . And for these and the like they Import Pot-ashes , Tarr , Cordage , Cable-yarn , Tallow , Wax , Isinglass , several sorts of Hides in the Hair , Goat-skins undrest , Cordovants , tan'd Hides , Hogs-brissles , raw Silk , Linseed , Slod , Bever wooll and wombs , several sorts of rich Furrs , Seal-skins , Rhuberb , Castorum , Agarick , Train-oyl , Flax , Hemp , Linen , Caviare , Salmon , Stockfish , Codfish , &c. This worshipful Company of Merchants is governed by a Governour , four Consuls , and Assistants consisting of four and twenty , who on the first of March are Annually chosen out of the Members of the said Society : and for this present Year 1677. the management thereof is committed to the care of Iohn Iolliff Esq Governour , Sir Benjamin Ayloff Baronet , Samuel Moyer Esq Charles Thorold Esq Mr. Charles Carill Consuls , to Mr. Edward Bell Treasurer , and to Iohn Gould Esq Mr. Daniel Edwards , Mr. Benjamin Glanvile , Mr. Iames Young , Mr. Benjamin Colds , Mr. George Grove , Mr. Francis Pargiter , Mr. George Carew , Mr. Heritage Lenten , Captain Gervase Lock , Mr. Edward Grace , Mr. Thomas Thursby , Mr. Thomas Hancox , Mr. Iohn Ashby , Mr. Richard Adams , Mr. Edward Davenport , Mr. Thomas Hawes ● Mr. George Cooks , Mr. Gilbert Ward , Mr. Ioseph Wolfe , Mr. Iohn Porter , Mr. Iohn Osborne , and Mr. Iohn Penning Assistants . The Eastland Company , first Incorporated in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , and confirmed by King Charles the Second , and by their Charter have ample Immunities and Priviledges granted to them , and as large a scope to traffick in , including the Trade of the Kingdoms , Dominions , Dukedoms , Countreys , Cities , and Towns of Norway , Swedeland , and Poland , with the Territories of the said Kingdoms , as also in Lettow , Liffland , and Pomerland , from the River Odera Eastwards , and likewise in the Isles of Findland , Eoland , and Ber●tholine within the Sound . The Commodities by this Company Exported are , Woollen Clothes , Perpetuances , Kersies , Serges , Norwich Stuffs , Cottons , Lead , Tinn , Pewter , Stockins , Hats , Gloves , together with several Southern and Eastern Commodities , as Sattins , Silks , Spices , &c. and the Commodities by them ●mported are , Deals , Masts , Timber , Oars , Balks , Clapboards , Bom-spars , Cant-spars , Pipe-staves , Wainscot , and Quarters , Flax , Hemp , Linen-cloth , Fustians , Cordage , Cable-yarn , Pitch , Tarr , Tallow , Hides , Pot-ashes , Wheat , Rye , Iron , Lattin , Copper , Steel , Wire , Quicksilver , rich Furrs , Buck-skins , Train-oyl , Sturgeon , Stock-fish , Mather , with several other good Commodities . For the management of the Affairs of this worshipful Company , they are governed by a Governour , Deputy-Governour , and Court of Assistants , consisting of four and twenty , who are yearly elected out of the Members of the said Society in the month of October , and keep their Courts for the management of the concerns of the said Company as others do , having also large Immunities granted unto them . The present Governour for this Year 1678. is Sir Richard Chiverton Kt. Governour , Francis Asty Esq Deputy-Governour , Randolph Knipe Treasurer , Sir Benjamin Ayloffe , Edward Bilton Senior , Esq Iohn Dogget Esq Nathaniel Tench Esq Peter Rich Esq Mr. Thomas Canham , Mr. Henry Moody , Mr. Edw. Bilton Junior , Mr. Samuel Feake , Mr. William Rivett , Mr. Hugh Vpton , Mr. William Nutt , Mr. William Cooper , Mr. Iohn Mathews , Mr. Oliver Westland , Mr. Edward Harwell , Mr. Abraham Wessel , Mr. Ioseph Martin , Mr. Thomas Philpe , Mr. Thomas Warren , Mr. William Taylor , and Mr. Iohn Sayer Assistants . The Royal Affrican Company of England was by his Majesties great prudence and care , for the general good of this Nation , and of his Foreign Dominions and Plantations , erected into a Company , and is likely to prove the most beneficial Trade that belongs to his Crown , as well by the Commodities Exported and Imported , as by the Negro Trade . The Goods of English growth Exported are , Sayes , Perpetuances , Broad-clothes , Welsh-plains , and other Woollen Manufactures in great abundance , besides quantities of other English Goods and Stuffs ; the large consumption whereof doth not only enable the Tenant the better to pay his Rent , and maintain his Family , but also sets many thousands of poor people at work , in making , dying , and dressing of these Stuffs and Clothes : And together with these Goods of English growth , are also sent vast quantities of Foreign Goods , chiefly imported by our East-India Company , by which his Majesties Customes , the wealth of his People , and the Navigation of this Kingdom are much encreased . The Foreign Commodities Imported are , Gold , Elephants-teeth , Wax , Hides , and other Commodities almost all as good as gold . And as to the benefit of the Negro Trade , it is such , that by it all the American Plantations are yearly furnished with great quantities of Slaves , not elsewhere to be had ; by whose labour , and the Planters industry , the King and his People are very much enriched . The bounds of this Companies Trade are large , viz. from Sally in South-Barbary to Cape Bona Esperanza inclusive . The Voyage out and home is short , usually within the compass of a year . Many ships and seamen are constantly employed in the Companies Service ; who for the securing their Trade , have at a very great expence erected several Forts and Factories all along the Coast of Guiny , without which the Trade cannot possibly be preserved to this Nation ; and for that very reason this Trade cannot be managed but by a Company and a joynt Stock ; for no private person will undergo the Charge of Forts and Factories abroad , besides such as Venture one Voyage , and perhaps no more , do usually consult the cheapest way in their Exports , and will not have that care to send so good and merchantable Commodities as a Company who are constantly to trade thither will , who are obliged so to do , as well for supporting the credit of their trade , as for bringing our English Manufactures into a better reputation than those of our Neighbours , which this Company hath really effected in several Commodities formerly bought in Holland , as Sayes , Muskets , Knives , &c. being now all Exported of our own make . And of this difference in and between the Commodities send by the Company , and those sent by private Traders , the Natives of Guiny ( who are a sagacious people ) are very sensible by the ill-dealings they have met with in that kind from some private Traders , which hath been a thing very disadvantageous to our English Manufactures and Trade : but these mi●chiefs have been removed ever since his Majesties settling the Trade in a Company , with prohibition to all such interloping Traders . This Company consisteth of a Governour ( who is his Royal Highness Iames Duke of York , the very life of the said Company under his Sacred Majesty ) a Sub-Governour , Deputy-Governour , and a generality mixt of divers Noblemen , honourable , Persons and eminent Merchants , to the number of about two hundred , out of which are Annually chosen by Vote at a general Court four and twenty Assistants , of whom any six with the Governour , Sub-Governour , or Deputy-Governour , make a Court , which by their Charter dated Sept. 27. 1672. is called a Court of Assistants , and impowered for the well ordering and governing of the Affairs of the said Company , subject nevertheless to a general Court when occasion requireth . The management of the Affairs of this Honourable Company for this Year 1678. is committed to the prudent care and government of his Royal Highness , Governour , Sir Gabriel Roberts , Sub-Governour , Benjamin Newland Esq Deputy-Governour . Twenty four Assistants , viz. Sir Iohn Banks Knight and Baronet , Sir Thomas Bludworth Knight and Alderman , Mr. Benjamin Bathurst , William Earl of Craven , Sir Peter Colleton Knight and Baronet , Mr. Roger Chappel , Mr. Samuel Dashwood , Thomas Lord Viscount Fauconberg , Edward Hopegood Esq Mr. Peter Ioy , Sir Andrew King , Mr. Iohn Mead , Sir Iohn Mathews , Mr. Nicholas Mead , Mr. Thomas Nichols , Lawrence du Puy , Esq Mr. Peter Proby , William Roberts Esq Mr. Edward Rudge , Col. Iohn Searle , Mr. Benjamin Skutt , Sir William Turner Knight and Alderman , Mr. Thomas Vernon , Mr. William Warren . The Coat of Arms and Motto belonging to this Company is also depicted in the Plate of Arms of the Companies of Merchants . This worshipful Company ( as indeed all others are ) is governed by a Master , Wardens , and Court of Assistants . Thus having briefly treated of the City of London the Metropolis of the Kingdom , with some of the chief Incorporated Companies , our next business shall be to treat of the Cities in England , with the principal places or Shire-Towns in every County . CHAP. II. Treats of the Cities of England , with the Shire or chief Town Corporate in each County ; and first with Berkshire . ELY , a City of more antiquity than beauty , being but meanly built , nor well inhabited or frequented , and would be farr less , were it not the See of a Bishop . It is a place that enjoyeth ample Immunities ; for in the Isle of Ely the Bishop hath all the Rights of a County Palatine , and beareth chief sway therein , and appointeth his Bailiff and other Officers . WELLS , another City in Somersetshire , of no large extent , but well inhabited , and of good account , being the See of a Bishop , under whose Jurisdiction is that of Bath . Its buildings are fair and good , its Cathedral a stately Pile of building , adjoyning to which is the Bishop's Palace . This City is governed by a Mayor , seven Masters , sixteen Burgesses , a Recorder , Town-Clerk , &c. and hath the election of Parliament men . It offers to view , amongst other remarkables , four Steeples and three Churches , whereof two are Parochial , viz. Trinity and St. Michaels ; that , an ancient well built Church , in form Cathedral , which being impaired by a late fall of its beautiful Spire , is since restored to its former lustre at a vast expence and charge : this , a stately , large , and brave inlightned Fabrick ; a curious Shell , whose Content is one hundred yards in length , and seven and twenty yards in breadth , besides several Isles and Chappels both on the North and South sides thereof , supported by neat and slender Pillars , with five Isles , whose Steeple for tower and lofty tapering Spire gives place to none in England . Bablack Church ( one of the three ) is a solid Antique Structure , its form Collegiate , where Divine Offices are performed but at some Festivals in the year . It hath gloried in a matchless Wall ; and though its form was irregular for a defensible Fortification , yet was it built strong , broad , high , and large in circumference , now only guessed at by its ruins and its twelve lofty Ports o● Gates yet standing . No place compares with this City for a most beautiful Cross of large dimensions and height , adorned with variety of Statues , Figures , and Sculptures , richly laid over with Gold , and set off with becoming Colours . It hath ( among others ) one magnificent Hall called Aula Sanctae Mariae , fit for a celebrious Congress or Assembly . Here is a fair Grammar School , founded by Iohn Hales Esquire , yet styled Schola Regis Henrici Octavi ; and another School of late erection for poor Children by Mr. Christopher Davenport , late Alderman . Appendant to both is a Library with learned Authors , both Print and Manuscripts ; of which Schools the Mayor and Aldermen of this City are Visitors . The Hospitals are 2 , well and plentifully providing for twenty Blue-Coats , eleven poor men in black Gowns , and two Nurses in the one , and eight other married Couples in blue Gowns in the other , and a Nurse . To it is annexed very large and rich Commons , great Annual Loans and G●fts distributed amongst poor young and hopeful Tradesmen , together with frequent remembrances of some noble Benefactor or other , who intrustred the City to dispose of their bounty to others , as among themselves , viz. forty pounds per Annum to St. Iohns Colledge in Oxford , and forty pounds per Annum to several other Cor-Proporations . Also near the said City , at a Pool called Swanswell , is a Spring which filleth a seven Inch Diameter , of which water the quantity of five Tun an hour is daily raised to the top of a Turret six and thirty foot high , by a stream out of the said Pool containing nine cubical Inches , which moveth an overshot Wheel and a triangular Crank with Ballances and Buckets , being an heaving or lifting Engine ; from hence the water is conveyed into the Streets of the City and Houses of such Inhabitants as will and do take the said water at an Annual Rent . This Water-work was begun by Thomas Sargenson Mason , and Bartholomew Bewley Plumber , in the year 1630. and hath been since altered and put into the form it now worketh , in the year 1658. and so continued by Thomas Bewley , Son of the said Bartholomew , who is the present prietor . The City is owner of a rich Delf or Mine of Coles near adjoyning to it , which is hoped will in a little time add much to its Revenue , the present Undertakers using that method for the mastering of the Water , which the inadvertency of former Undertakers either could not contrive , or at least not effectually prosecute . The staple Commodity of the place is Cloth ; but to how low an ebb that trade is now come to , every place can report and competently judge , as well as this City . It s Government consists of Annual Officers , ten Aldermen or Justices , with two standing Councels , viz. the Upper , the Second or Common-Councel . The Annual Officers are the Mayor , Recorder , two Sheriffs , Steward , Coroner , two Chamberlains , tow Wardens , and some other Attendant and Ministring Officers . The Mayor is the eye of the Body , the King 's immediate Lieutenant , having the precedency of all . Prince Henry himself , when in Coventry , refused to take the better hand of him when modestly the Mayor offered it , saying , He would not resume a right of his Fathers Graunts . This Authority is Solitary or Social : Solitary , as to be Clerk of the King's Market , Steward and Marshal of the King's House , to be in Commission for Arrays , and Head of the twelve Companies . Social , in the upper Councel , which consists of Aldermen and some Candidates for the Majoralty , where he orders and manageth the particular Affairs and Revenues of the City , distributes the bounty of Benefactors , sometimes calling in the Assistance of the second Councel , arbitrarily chosen by him and his Brethren , out of the wealthiest and discreetest Citizens , and consisting of five and twenty , who are as Witnesses of their just administrations , as well as Advisors , in all Alienations of City Lands and Grants of other nature . The Aldermen are Justices of the Peace in as full Latitude as any other , having ten Wards or Precincts assigned them , with an Appropriation of a Ward to each Alderman , as to some respects , though otherwise every one is Justice throughout , both as to the City and County of the City , which is of large extent . Of these Justices there are of the Quorum four , viz. the Mayor , Recorder , and two eldest Aldermen . The Mayor's Insignia are a Sword , a Hat of Maintenance , a great Mace , and six smaller , with a Tip-staff ; the Robes black , lined with Furr , and on solemn and festival days Scarlet lined with Foins . The present Aldermen and Justices for the year 1676. are William Ielliff Alderman , now Mayor the second time ; the Right Honourable Iames Earl of Northampton one of his Majesties Privy Council , Recorder ; Ioseph Chambers , Iames Nailer , Iulius Billers , William Vale , Ralph Phillips , Nathaniel Harryman , Thomas King , Thomas Bewley , Abell Brooksby , Humfry Burton Coroner , Sir Richard Hopkins Kt. Serjeant at Law , Steward . As to the Rights , Immunities , Priviledges , when and by whom granted , together with all other things coincident to this City , from its first appearance to its ascending Grandure and Declining or Cadency , they are most amply and learnedly mentioned to our hand by the Pen of the learned Mr. Dugdale , Norroy King of Arms , to whom we referr the Reader . The Arms belonging to this City are , parted per Pale , Gules and Vert , an Elephant , Argent , on a Mount , proper , bearing a Castle on his back , Or. WARWICK , the Shire-Town , of good account , being the place where the Assizes and general Sessions for the County are kept ; it is indifferent large , containing two Parish Churches , besides some demolished ; its Houses are well built , its Streets spacious and good ; is a place well inhabited , and enjoyeth a good trade , especially for Mault . It is governed by a Mayor , twelve Brethren , four and twenty Burgesses for Common-Councel , a Recorder , &c. s●nds Burgesses to Parliament . The Arms born by this Town is , a Castle triple-towred , having on the dexter side the Sun in its glory , and on the sinister a Crescent , on the top of the two fronting Towers stand two Watchmen with this Inscription upon the Ring of the Seal , Sigillum Ballivi Burgensium Warwici . And notwithstanding this fatal overthrow , ●o much of the Town was continued , till the Reign of Richard the Second ( who began in 1377 ) that it paid to the King in Fee-farm Rent twenty Marks per Annum at 2 d. a Burgage , which amounts to two thousand two hundred Burgages , besides other Houses : But in 1388. ( as appears by Records ) die Martis in festo Sancti Stephani Martyris ( which was about the eleventh of Richard the Second ) it was so burn'd down and wasted by the Scots , that of that Rent , upon several Inquisitions found and returned , there remained to the King only two Marks per Annum , so that nine parts in ten were utterly destroy'd . But notwithstanding this great devastation that was never repaired , it doth still retain its ancient Priviledges , which are in every respect the same with York , as appears from the confirmation of Henry the Third ( in whose time here was an Exchequer , called by the Name of Scaccarium de Appleby ) and King Iohn ●s Charter , which I have seen ; wherein is expressed and firmly commanded , That his Burgers of Appleby shall have and enjoy all the Liberties and free Customes which his Burgers of York have , well and peaceably , freely and quietly , fully , wholly , and honourably ( with a Prohibition , That none shall attempt to disturb them thereof ) ; And also , That they shall be free from Toll , Stallage , Pontage , and Lestage all England over ; praeterquam in Civitate London , nisi forte Cives Eobor ' quietantias inde habent libertates suas in Civitate London ; which exception doth very much confirm and strengthen their Priviledges to them . The Corporation consists at present of a Mayor , with two Bailiffs , a Court of Aldermen , twelve in number , a Recorder , Common-Councel , and Serjeants at Mace , with their Attendants : And ( if the Town were able to bear it ) might take the same Priviledges with York in every thing , according to their Charter , which has been confirmed by all the succeeding Kings of England ; and if any would know what those Priviledges are more particularly , I referr him to York , where he may possibly meet with satisfaction . In the mean time take these which are now in practice at Appleby , viz. They have power to Arrest for any Sum without limitation . To elect and send two Burgesses to Parliament . To acknowledge Statute-Merchant before the Mayor . To take Toll both in Fairs and Markets . To seize Felons goods , Felones de se , Waifes , Strayes , Forfeitures , and Escheats ; all which do belong to the Mayor for the time being , who takes place of the Judges of Assize , as the Lord Mayor of York is wont to do . Their Aldermen are some of them Gentlemen of the Country , for the greater honour and credit of the Town , who in time of their Majoralty have their Propraetors or Deputies there . The present Mayor and Aldermen for the present year are , Iohn Thwaites Esquire , Mayor , Lancelot Machell of Gackanthorp Esq who was first Mayor after the King's return , and tore in pieces Oliver's Charter in open Court , before he would accept of that Office , which he had declined all Oliver's time : Richard Brathwate of Warcop , Esq and Justice of Peace , who contested with the Judges , and took place of them Virtute Chartae , Robert Hilton of Morton , Esquire , Justice Jf Peace , Edward Musgrave of Askeby Esq oustice of Peace , Thomas Warcop of Colby , Gentleman , Iohn Routlidge of 〈…〉 Gent. Alderman Leonard Smyth , Alderman William Smyth , Alderman Robert Harrison , Alderman Iohn Lawson , Alderman Thomas Robinson , Alderman Iohn Atkinson , which six last are all of Appleby . Appleby was very eminent for its Loyalty in the late Civil Warrs , and most of the Aldermen ( except those whom Oliver Cromwell obtruded upon them ) suffered many imprisonments during his Tyranny ; and so likewise did most of the Gentry round about : for it is the glory of the County of Westmerland , that there was not one Person of quality in it who took up Arms against his King , and but two or three in Cumberland . A TABLE OF THE Contents or Heads Of the several CHAPTERS IN THE TREATISE OF Honour and Nobility . FIRST PART . HONOVR MILITARY . OF Warr , and the causes thereof . fol. 3 Of Souldiers 4 Of Embassadors or Legats 5 Of Warr , and the inclination of the English to it ibid. Of Captains , Generals , Marshals , and other chief Commanders . 7 SECOND PART . HONOVR CIVIL . CHap. I. Of Honour general and particular , 11 Of Gentry , and bearing of Arms 12 Principles of Honour and Vertue that every Gentleman ought to be endowed with 13 Of precedency ibid. Chap. II. Of the King , or Monarch of Great Britain 19 Chap. III. Of the Prince 24 Chap. IV. Of Dukes 32 The form of a Patent of the Duke of York , temp . Jacobi . 33 Ceremonies to be observed in the Creation of a Duke 36 Chap. V. Of Marquisses 37 Chap. VI. Of Earls 39 Chap. VII . Of Viscounts 44 Chap. VIII . Of Lords Spiritual 45 Chap. IX . Of Barons 48 The definition of a Baron ibid. The Etymology of the name of a Baron ibid. The antiquity and dignity of Barons , and the sundry uses of the Name 49 The tenor and proper signification of the word Baron ibid. Chap. X. Barons of Tenure 50 Chap. XI . Barons by Writ 52 Chap. XII . Barons by Patent 56 Chap. XIII . Priviledges incident to the Nobility , according to the Laws of England 59 Certain Cases wherein a Lord of the Parliament hath no priviledge 65 Chap. XIV . Nobility and Lords in reputation only 68 Chap. XV. Of the Queen Consort , and of Noble Women 69 , 70 Ladies in reputation 75 Chap. XVI . Of Knighthood in general 77 Chap. XVII . Knights of the Garter 79 Chap. XVIII . Of Knights Bannerets 84 Chap. XIX . Of Baronets 85 The president of the Patent of Creation of Baronets 88 The Catalogue of the Baronets of England according to their Creations 91 Chap. XX. Knights of the Bath 105 A Catalogue of the Knights of the Bath made at the Coronation of King Charles II. 107 Chap. XXI . Of Knights Batchelors 108 Observations concerning Knights Batchelors 116 Of degrading of Knights 117 Chap. XXII . Knights of the round Table 118 Chap. XXIII . Knights of the Thistle , or of St. Andrew 120 Chap. XXIV . Orders of Knighthood in Palestine and other parts of Asia 121 Knights of the holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem , ib. Knights Hospitalers of St. John Baptist in Jerusalem , now called Knights of Malta 122 Knights Templars ibid. Knights of St. Lazarus 123 Knights of St. Bass ibid. Knights of St. Katherine at Mount Sinai ibid. Knights of the Martyrs in Palestine ibid. Orders of Knighthood in Spain . Knights of the Oak in Navar 124 Knights of the Lily in Navar ibid. Knights of the Band 125 Knights of the Dove in Castile ibid. Ordo de la Scama in Castile ibid. Knights of the Lily in Aragon ibid. Knights of Mountjoy ibid. Knights of Acon or Acres ibid. Knights of St. James in Galicia 126 Knights of St. Saviour in Aragon ibid. Knights of St. Julian de Pereyro , or of Alcantara ibid. Knights of Calatrava in Castile ibid. Knights of Truxillo ibid. Knights of our Lady , and of St. George of Montesa in Valencia 127 Knights of St. Mary de Merced in Aragon , ibid. Knights of the Rosary in Toledo ibid. Orders of Knighthood in Flanders . Knights of the Golden Fleece , or Toison d'Or 128 Orders of Knighthood in Portugal . Knights d'Avis 129 Knights of the Wing of St. Michael ibid. Knights of St. James 130 Knights of Christ ibid. Orders of Knighthood in France . Knights of Iesus Christ 131 Knights of the Passion of Iesus Christ ibid. Knights of the blessed Virgin Mary of Mount-Carmel 132 Knights of St. Michael ibid. Knights of St. Esprit ibid. Knights of the Order of the Genet 133 Knights of the Crown Royal amongst the Frizons ibid. Knights of our Lady of the Star ibid. Knights of the Thistle of Bourbon ibid. Knights of the Porcupine 134 Knights of the Croissant of Anjou ibid. The Order of the Ermyne in Bretagne ibid. Degrees of Knighthood in Italy . Knights of St. Mary the Glorious 135 Knights of the Holy Ghost in Saxia at Rome ibid. The Constantinian Angelick Knights of Saint George , formerly in Greece 136 Knights of St. Peter at Rome ibid. Knights of St. George at Rome ibid. Knights of St. Paul at Rome ibid. Knights called Pios at Rome ibid. Knights of Loretto ibid. Knights of the Glorious Virgin Mary at Rome 137 Knights of Jesus at Rome ibid● Knights de la Calza in Venice ibid. Knights of St. Mark in Venice ibid. Knights of St. George at Genoa ibid. Knights of St. Stephen at Florence 138 Knights of the Knot in Naples ibid. Knights of the Argonauts of St. Nicholas in Naples ibid. Knights of the Ermyne in Naples ibid. Degrees of Knighthood in Savoy . Knights of the Annunciation 139 Knights of St. Maurice 140 Knights of St. Maurice and St. Lazarus ibid Knights of the Bear in Switzerland 141 Degrees of Knighthood in Germany . Knights of the Tutonick Order of Prusia 142 Knights of St. Jerom 143 Knights of St. George in Austria and Carinthia ibid. Knights of St. Michael the Archangel ibid. Knights of St. Anthony of Hainolt 144 Knights of the Tusin Order in Bohemia ibid. Knights of St. Hubert in Juliers ibid. Knights of the Order of St. James in Holland ibid. Degrees of Knighthood in Swedeland . Knights of the Brician Order 145 Knights of Seraphins ibid. Knights of Amarantha ibid. Knights of the Order of the Elephant in Denmark 146 Degrees of Knighthood in Poland . Knights of Christ , or of the Sword-Bearers in Livonia 147 Knights of the white Eagle ibid. Knights of the Order of the Dragon overthrown in Hungary 148 Knights of the Order of the sword in Cyprus ibid. Knights of St. Anthony in AEthiopia 149 Knights of the Burgundian Cross in Tunis ibid. Knights of the West-Indies 150 Chap. XXV . Of Esquires● 151 Chap. XXVI . Of Gentlemen 154 The priviledges of the Gentry 156 Chap. XXVII . Of Yeomen 158 Chap. I. The second Part of Honour Civil , treats of the Priviledges , Coat-Armour , &c. of London , and the Cities and chief Towns Corporate in England 161 London , its Government , Courts , &c. 162 The Names of the Lord Mayor , and Alderme● 164 The Incorporated Companies of Merchants ibid. The chief Companies of London 167 Chap. II. Treats of the Cities and Shire-Towns of England . Counties Towns f●l . Berks Reading 170 Bedfordshire Bedford ibid. Bucks Buckingham ibid. Cambridgshire Cambridge ibid. Cambridgshire Ely ibid. Cheshire Chester 171 Cornwall Launston ibid. Cumberland Carlisle ibid. Derbyshire Derby ibid. Devonshire ●xeter ibid. Devonshire Barnstable ibid. Dorsetshire Dorchester 172 Durham Durham ibid. Essex Colchester ibid. Glocestershire Bristoll ibid. Glocestershire Bristoll Merchants ibid. Glocestershire Glocester 173 Hantshire Winchester ibid. Hantshire Southampton ibid. Hertfordshire Hertford ibid. Herefordshire Hereford ibid. Huntingtonshire Huntington 174 Kent Canterbury ibid. Kent Rochester ibid. Lancashire Lancaster ibid. Leicestershire Leicester ibid. Lincolnshire Lincoln ibid. Lincolnshire Stamfor● 175 Monmouthshire Monmout● ibid. Norfolk Norwich ibid. Northamptonshire Northampton ibid. Northamptonshire Peterborow ibid. Northumberland Newcastle ibid. Nottinghamshire Nottingham 176 Oxfordshire Oxford ibid. Rutlandshire Oakham ibid. Shropshire Shrewsbury ibid. Somersetshire Bath 177 Somersetshire Wells 177 Staffordshire Litchfield ibid. Staffordshire Stafford ibid. Suffolk Ipswich ibid. Sussex Chichester ibid. Warwickshire Coventrey 178 Westmoreland Apleby 179 Wiltshire Salisbury 181 Worcestershire Worcester ibid. Yorkshire York ibid. Yorkshire Hull ibid. Yorkshire Richmond ibid. A TABLE of the Effigies and Atchievements of the Nobility and Gentry in the Treatise of Honour Civil and Military . The Effigies of the Duke of Albemarle fol. 9 The Effigies of the Earls of Carlisle 10 The Effigies of the Earls of Craven ibid. The Effigies of the Lord Bellasis ibid. The Effigies of Bertram Ashburnham ibid. The Effigies of the Lord Chancellor Finch 14 The Effigies of the Earl of Shaftesbury as Lord Chancellor 14 His Majesties Effigies 19 His Majesties Atchievement 19 DUKES . The Effigies of the Duke of Buckingham 32 Atchievements . numb . ●ol . D. of Albemarle 6 32 D. of Buckingham 5 32 D. of Grafton 11 32 D. of Monmouth 7 32 D. of Newcastle 8 32 D. of Norfolk 3 32 D. of Richmond 10 32 Prince Rupert 2 32 D. of Somerset 4 32 D. of Southampton 9 32 D. of York 1 32 MARQUISSES . Effigies of the Marquiss of Winchester 37 Atchievements .     Marquisses of Dorchester 3 37 Marquisses of Winchester 1 37 Marquisses of Worcester . 2 37 EARLS . Effigies of the Earls of Aylesbury 39 Effigies of the Earls of Burford 39 Atchievements . A E. of Airly 77 39 E. of Anglesey 51 39 E. of Arlington 57 39 E. of Aylesbury 55 39 B E. of Banbury 29 39 E. of Bath 52 39 E. of Bedford 7 39 E. of Berkshire 26 39 E. of Brecknock D. of Ormond 47 39 E. of Bridgwater 15 39 E. of Bristoll 21 39 E. of Bullingbrook 23 39 E. of Burford 68 39 E. of Burlington 56 39 C   numb . so . E. of Cardigan 50 39 E. of Carlisle 53 39 E. of Carnarvan 36 39 E. of Castlemaine 80 39 E. of Chesterfield 38 39 E. of Clare 22 39 E. of Clarendon 48 39 E. of Craven 54 39 D E. of Danby 64 39 E. of Derby 4 39 E. of Denbigh 20 39 E. of Devonshire 19 39 E. of Donegall 76 39 E. of Dorset and Middlesex 12 39 E. of Dover 32 39 E. of Downe 79 39 E. of Droheda 74 39 E E. of Essex 49 39 E. of Exeter 14 39 F E. of Feversham 67 39 E. of Fingall 75 39 G E. of Guilford , D. Lotherdale 62 39 H E. of Huntington 6 39 I E. of Incsiquin 73 39 K E. of Kent 3 39 E. of Kildare 78 39 L E. of Langford 72 39 E. of Leicester 16 39 E. of Lincoln 9 39 E. of Lindsey 31 39 E. of Litchfield 61 39 E. of Londonderry 69 39 M E. of Manchester 25 39 E. of Marl●orough 28 39 E. of Mougrave 27 39 N E. of Newport 37 39 E. of Northampton 17 39 E. of Northumberland 65 39 E. of Norwich 59 39 E. of Nottingham 10 39 O Earl of Oxford 1 39 P E. of Pembroke 8 39 E. of Peterborow 33 39 F. of Plymouth 63 39 E. of Portland 40 39 E. of Powis 60 39 R E. of Renelaugh 71 39 E. of Rivers 30 39 E. of Rochester 44 39 E. of Rutland 5 39 S E. of Salisbury 13 39 E. of Sandwic● 46 39 E. of St. Albons 45 39 E. of Scardale 43 39 E. of Shaftesbury 58 39 E. of Shrewsbury 2 39 E. of Stamford 34 39 E. of Strafford 41 39 E. of Suffolk 11 39 E. of Sunderland 42 39 E. of Sussex 66 39 T E. of Thanet 39 39 W E. of Warwick and Holland 18 39 E. of Westmoreland 24 39 E. of Winchelsey 35 39 VISCOUNTS . The Effigies of Viscount Falconbergh 44 Atchievements . Viscount Brounker 14 44 C Viscount Camden 5 44 Viscount Conway 4 44 E Viscount Emula Lord Fairfax 15 44 F Viscount Falconbergh 7 44 Viscount Fitzharding 16 44 H Viscount Hallifax 9 44 Viscount Hereford 1 44 K Viscount Kilmurrey 13 44 M Viscount Mountague 2 44 Viscount Mordant 8 44 N Viscount Newport 11 44 S Viscount Say and Seal 3 14 Viscount Stafford 6 44 Y Viscount Yarmouth 10 44 Atchievements of BISHOPS . Canter●u●y 1 45 Chester 7 ●5 Durham 6 45 Ely 8 45 London 3 , 5 45 Sarum 4 45 York 2 45 BARONS . The Essigies of the Lord Baltemore 48 Atchievements . A L. Albergavenny 1 48 L. Allington 67 48 L. Arundel of Trerice 59 48 L. Arundel of Wardure 22 48 L. Astley 43 48 L. Aston 65 48 L. Audley Earl of Castlehaven 2 48 B L. Baltemore 66 48 L. Bellasis 45 48 L. Berkeley of Berkeley 4 48 L. Berkeley of Stratton 52 48 L. Biron 36 48 L. Brook 24 48 L. Butler Earl of Aran 62 48 L. Butler Earl of Ossery 60 48 C L. Carrington 39 48 L. Chandois 17 48 L. Clifford 61 48 L. Cornwallis 54 48 L. Coventrey 31 48 L. Crew 57 48 L. Crofts 51 48 L. Cromwell Earl of Arglass 11 48 L. Culpeper 42 48 D L. D'arcy 6 48 L. De la Mere 55 48 L. De la Ware 3 48 E L. Eure 12 48 F L. Finch Lord Chancellor 63 48 L. Fitzwater 7 48 L. Frechevile 58 48 G L. Gerard of Brandon 47 48 L. Gerard of Bromley 20 48 L. Grey 26 48 H L. Hatton 37 48 L. Herbert of Cherbury 34 48 L. Holles 53 48 L. Howard 32 48 K L. Kingston 68 48 L L. Langdale 50 48 L. Leigh 35 48 L. Lexington 48 48 L. Lovelace 28 48 L. Lucas 44 48 M L. Maynard 30 48 L. Mohun 33 48 L. Montague 25 48 L. Morley 5 48 N L. North 16 48 L. Norris● 18 48 P L. Pagit 15 48 L. Petre 19 48 L. Poulet 29 48 R L. Roberts 27 48 L. Rockingham 46 48 S L. Sandis 9 48 L. Stanhope 21 48 L. Stourton 8 48 T L. Tenham 23 48 L. Townesend 56 48 V L. Vaughan Earl of Carbery 38 48 W L. Ward 41 48 L. Whartou 13 48 L. Widdrington 40 48 L. Windsor 10 48 L. Willoughby 14 48 L. Wotton 49 48 Atchievements of Women . Gam 's 3 76 Dutchess of Richmond 1 76 Castle-Stuart 2 76 Sedley 4 76 Effigies of Knights of the Garter . Earl of Arlington 3 79 Marquiss of Worcester 2 79 His Royal Highness Duke of York 1 79 Effigies of a Knight Banneret . Sir William de la More ● 84 BARONETS . Atchievements . A Atkins 5 85 Aucher 47 85 B Bacon 3 85 Banks 42 85 Barnadiston 24 85 Bridgman 23 85 C Carteret 1 85 Corbet 30,31 85 Craven 10 85 D D'arcy 25 85 F Forster 26 85 G Gerard 6 85 Gleane 19 85 Glynn 40 85 Graham 41 85 Grimston 2 85 H Hanmer 38 85 Head 44 85 Hobart 29 85 Holland 46 85 Hunlock 39 85 J Iason 20 85 K Lowther 34 85 Lucy 37 85 M Mathews 12 85 Mauleverer 7 85 Middleton 22 85 Molineux 14 85 More 45 85 O Osborne 16 85 P Percivale 33 85 Peyton 9 85 Puckering 11 85 R Ratcliffe 4 85 Reresby 48 85 Robinson 27,36 85 S Shaw 43 85 T Tempest 13 85 V Verney 28 85 Viner 17 85 W Walter 15 85 Wheler 35 85 Wilbraham 32 85 Williams 32,85 85 Wittewrong 8 85 Wolstonholme 18 85 KNIGHTS . Atchievements . A Atkins 2 108 B Bennet 3 108 Berkenhead 13 108 Beversham 48 108 Booth 41 108 Brathwait 26 108 C Chicheley 22 108 Churchill 30 108 Clayton 19 108 D Daniel 6 108 Davies 10 108 Dolman 23 108 Drake 14 108 F Fairborne 27 108 H Hacket 20 108 Hanson 35 108 Harding 45 108 Hustler 33 108 J Iames 40 108 K Kirke 46 108 L Langham 28 108 Lowe 39 108 Lynch 8 108 M Marsh 47 108 Maynard 36 108 Middleton 43 108 Mompesson 7 108 N North 21 108 P Pargiter 15 108 Pelham 9 108 Peyton 38 108 Pitfield 42 108 Player 12 108 Prichard 11 108 R Raynsford 17 108 S Sheldon 34 108 Shorter 37 108 Smith 32 108 Southwell 4 108 Sympson 24 108 T Talbot 18 108 Theobalds 44 108 Thompson 29 108 Turnor 31 108 W Waller 16 108 Williamson 1 108 Windham 5 108 ESQUIRES . Atchievements . A Armiger 34 151 Arthington 50 151 Ashburnham 3 151 Atwood 82 151 B Barbon 60 151 Beauvoir 90 151 Bennet 78 151 Booth 47 151 Bowen 22 151 Brabazon 103 151 Brouncker 105 151 Burlase 85 151 Burton 41 151 Butler 19 151 Byde 47 151 C Chetwynd 16 151 Clarke 100 151 Clifford 46 151 Callingwood 95 151 Collins 108 151 Colt 35 151 Colwall 24 151 Coventrey 1 151 Coxe 80 151 Crome 92 151 Cudmore 107 151 D Darnall 33 151 Dereham 30 151 Dive 69 151 Dixie 61 151 Doughty 56 151 Duke 76 151 E Egerton 36 151 Evance 91 151 F Feild 8 151 Feltham 70 151 Fleming 13 151 Foley 73,74,75 151 G Georges 18 151 Gilbertson 23 151 Goodlad 26 151 Grant 5 151 H Harvey 2 15● Hoare 72 151 Huitson 58 151 J Iames 89 151 Inkledon 27 151 Iollife 49,96 151 K Keck 86 151 Knight 38 151 L Lamplugh 40 151 Lant 32 151 Legg 7 151 Lewkenor 79 151 Loggan 20,104 151 Lucy 86 151 M Madden 42 151 Mariet 15 151 Martyn 98 151 Marwood 102 151 Micklethwaite 66 151 Modyford 51 151 Molesworth 6 151 Mountague 67 151 P Pagit 65 151 Palmer 99 151 Peck 63,64 151 Peirce 88 151 Pepys 17 151 Petyt 1 39 151 Pilkington 21 151 Plott 83 151 R Rawlins 28 151 Raynsford 44 151 Roberts 12 151 Robinson 68 151 Rowe 101 151 S Sackvile 55 151 Sanders 25 151 Seys 31 151 Skelton 14 151 Smith 52 151 Stephens 48 151 Stoughton 45 151 Strache 97 151 Stringer 94 151 Swift 43 151 T Thompson 81 151 Thurland 11 151 Titus 29 151 Tomlins 59 151 Twisden 10 151 V Vernon 106 151 VV Walker 77 151 Warner 84 151 Weld 54 151 Werden 53 151 Wharton 4 151 Wildman 37 151 Windham 93 151 Winwood 62 151 Wyrley 9 151 Wythens 71 151 GENTLEMENS Achievements . B Blome 5 154 Bourne 2 154 E Eyre 9 154 F Farington 10 154 G Glover 10 154 Gregory 11 154 L Lunde 14 154 M Mainstone 1 154 Marshall 13 154 R Rowe 3 154 S Shaw 12 154 Stanley 8 154 Stratford 15 154 V Vandeput 4 154 Vanheck 7 154 VV Whitwath . 6 154 FINIS . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A48960-e2920 i.e. Middlesex 
A31596	----	The present state of England. Part III. and Part IV. containing I. an account of the riches, strength, magnificence, natural production, manufactures of this island, with an exact catalogue of the nobility, and their seats, &c., II. the trade and commerce within it self, and with all countries traded to by the English, as at this day established, and all other matters relating to inland and marine affairs : supplying what is omitted in the two former parts ... Angliae notitia Part 3-4 Chamberlayne, Edward, 1616-1703. 1683 Approx. 946 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 386 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2007-01 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A31596 Wing C1844_pt3-4 Wing P1922_PARTIAL Wing P1925_pt4 ESTC R13138 12334747 ocm 12334747 59749 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A31596) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 59749) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 206:15) The present state of England. Part III. and Part IV. containing I. an account of the riches, strength, magnificence, natural production, manufactures of this island, with an exact catalogue of the nobility, and their seats, &c., II. the trade and commerce within it self, and with all countries traded to by the English, as at this day established, and all other matters relating to inland and marine affairs : supplying what is omitted in the two former parts ... Angliae notitia Part 3-4 Chamberlayne, Edward, 1616-1703. Petty, William, Sir, 1623-1687. England's guide to industry. J. S. 3 pts. Printed for William Whitwood ..., London : 1683. Pt. 4 has imprint: London : Printed by R. Holt for William Whitwood, 1683, and has added to it, according to its t.p.: England's guide to industry. This is the first and unauthorized issue of Petty's Political arithmetick and has the imprint: London : Printed by R. Holt for T. Passinger, and B. Took, 1683. "To the reader" in pt. 4 signed: J.S. "Intended as a supplement to Edward Chamberlayne's Angliae notitia, or, The present state of England"--BM. Reproduction of original in Yale University Library. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. Gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. 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Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Nobility -- Great Britain -- Early works to 1800. Great Britain -- Description and travel. Great Britain -- Description and travel -- Early works to 1800. Great Britain -- Commerce -- History -- 17th century. 2005-11 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2006-03 SPi Global Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2006-05 Derek Lee Sampled and proofread 2006-05 Derek Lee Text and markup reviewed and edited 2006-09 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion THE Present State OF ENGLAND . PART III. and PART IV. CONTAINING ; I. An Account of the Riches , Strength , Magnificence , Natural Production , Manufactures of this Island , with an exact Catalogue of the Nobility , and their Seats , &c. II. The Trade and Commerce within it self , and with all Countries traded to by the English , as at this day established , and all other Matters relating to Inland and Marine Affairs . Supplying what is omitted in the two former Parts , useful for Natives and Foreiners . London , Printed for William Whitwood , near the George Inn in Little Britain , 1683. THE THIRD PART OF THE Present State OF ENGLAND . WHEREIN Is set forth the Riches , Strength , Magnificence , Natural Production , Manufactures , Wonders and Rarities , Progress of Learning , Arts and Ingenuities , &c. WITH A more perfect and Methodical Catalogue of the Nobility , with their Seats , than any hitherto extant . LONDON , Printed for William Whitwood , next the George Inn , in Little Britain . 1683. THE PREFACE . IT is commonly said among Gamesters , that the Standers by oft-times see more than the persons themselves that play . The like may be said , as to the Writing of Books : That the Critical Reader soon discovers the Errors and Defects of the Writer . Withall , it is a common Observation , even of the Vulgar and Inferior sort of the People of France ; that when any Stranger chanceth to trip or falter , either in the Pronunciation , or Idiom of their Language , they , instead of laughing at their failings , are still ready to help them out , and inform them better . In our present Affair therefore , there is no more to do , than to wish the good fortune of falling into the hands of the most courteous and best natured of Readers ; and indeed , there is a kind of necessity for it : for , in treating of the Productions , Manufactures , Inventions , and other things herein contained , there is ( if not more ) at least , as much need of Converse , as of Books ; of consulting the Living , as the Dead . Whatever then , through haste , Inadvertency , or want of convenient Assistance ; either of Mistake , or Omission of what is most Curious or Remarkable ( I say , most Curious or Remarkable ; since a too particular , and Minute Account would swell each Head into a distinct Volume ) may have escaped in this present Work ; those Gentlemen who shall think it worth their while , and will give themselves the trouble , are humbly desired , against the next Impression , if the VVork shall be thought worthy of it , to impart their Advice and Informations . Small Beginnings oft times grow up to considerable Improvements : and a little Cottage may be inlarged to a Commodious , if not stately Habitation . ERRATA & OMISSA . PAge 13. line II. after King , read Edward the Fourth . ibid. after to r. Alphonso . p. 19. l. 6. after from r. Bamba . l. 7. after from , r. Guinea . p. 21. l. 25. In the Blank , after in , r. Herefordshire . p. 22. l. 10. r. Vulpanser . What other Mistakes , or Omissions have escaped the Press , by reason some Sheets were wrought off before the Author's Perusal , are submitted to the Courteous and Judicious Reader 's Emendation . THE Present State OF ENGLAND . PART III. THE Island of Great Britain , the largest of the European Islands , and to very few Islands of the World inferiour in bigness , to none in Fertility , Power , Good Government and the Glory of its great Actions , lies between 52 and 58 degrees of Northern Latitude . England the noblest and largest part thereof , and a distinct Kingdom of it self , though at present united under one Monarch , hath undergone four several grand Revolutions . Not to mention the Samotheans , Albionists , and Brutus his Trojan Dynastie , whose credit depends rather upon fabulous Tradition than real History , the ancient Inhabitants of this Island are scarce taken notice of by any Author of account but by the name of Britains ; and the first certainly known Attaque that ever was made upon them , was by the Romans , under Julius Caesar ; and after that several others by the Lieutenants of several succeeding Emperors , not without a World of Bloodshed : The Natives no less stoutly resisting , than the Romans furious assaulting , till at length they gain'd a no less quiet than perhaps advantageous Possession among us ; I mean , advantageous to this Island ; so that the Losers may be said to have been the greatest Gainers , the Conquered the greatest Triumphers : For if we consider , from the several Descriptions that have been written thereof , what barbarous and absurd Customs the Ancient Britains had among them ; we may conclude that Civility and Arts were so much the earlier introduced by the coming in of the Romans ; who also by their long Habitation here , and Familiar Converse with the Old Inhabitants , were of Foreigners become as it were Natives , of Enemies Protectors , insomuch that when they were call'd away for the Defence of their Provinces Abroad , their Departure was no less regretted , than their Arrival was oppos'd . The next Attempters upon this part of the Island were the Saxons , who being at first Invited in for their Assistance against the Invading Picts and other Borderers , became at length themselves the greatest Invaders ; and playing upon the Easie and Luxurious Temper of the Prince that first Incourag'd their coming over , they got a Footing , which by continued fresh Supplies sent over from time to time , they made so sure , that all the Force the Britains were able to make against them for several Ages , was not able to unfix it . For notwithstanding this great Opposition , in which several of the British Kings Signaliz'd themselves , even to the Fame of Heroes , especially the Great King Arthur , whose Glory nothing hath so much Eclips'd , as that his Actions ( great enough in their Truth ) are blown up into Storys , so Romantick and and Surpassing all Credit , maugre I say all the Force could be Mustered against them : They still Increased in Number and Strength , till in the end the Britains quite tir'd out , were glad to retire into the Mountainous and remote parts of the Land , ( by which they kept themselves for many Ages a people intirely distinct , and their Language to this very day unmixt ; the Root of ours being evidently the Saxon , so that the other must needs be the Ancient British ) and leave all the rest to be shar'd among the new Possessors , who , there being so many Proprietors in the Conquest , dealt out the British Monarchy into seven Parcels ; which sevenfold Partition it may well be wondred how it could keep up so long , considering the Confusions , and as it were Civil Wars , that arose ( as how could they but arise ) among so many Petty Monarchs upon one Continent ( that is , as to the bounds of each Kingdom ) till at length one swallowing up the other , the stronger the weaker , this Seven-headed Hydra of Government came to a Period , and one bright face of Monarchy shot up again , and spread its Lustre over all this better part of Britain , which hath ever since been called the Kingdom of England , and hath so continued , with little or no Interruption , from the Raign of the Great Egbert . He it was who first reduc'd this Heptarchy into a Perfect Monarchy , though it was tending toward it sometime before , even to this day ; and from him the Aera of our English Monarchies by Historians and Chronologers are reputed to commence : So that from the said Egbert , his present Majesty that now Happily Reigns , is reckon'd the fourty sixth sole Monarch of England . But scarce was this Government well setled , when the expected Tranquility thereof was disturbed by a new Generation of Invaders , more Barbarous and Mischievous , than ever any either before or since ; Committers of far greater Outrages and Cruelties : Yet so often either driven out , or totally extirpated ; so often bravely Conquered in the Field by the high Valour and Conduct of several of our English Saxon Monarchs ( whose Fame stands great in History to this day for their Vertue and Gallantry , both in Peace and War ) that it may well be wondred , how any one Country could spare such Multitudes of People , as continually pour'd in upon us for several Ages together ; and how such numerous Forces could make such frequent Landings with so little Opposition : But then it must be considered , that we had no Summer Guards Abroad , no Squadrons of First , Second and Third Rate Frigats to Cruise about and Guard the English Coasts ; what kind of Ships there were in those either for War or Trade , cannot be collected from any Account or Description we find recorded or publish'd ; but thus much may well be concluded , that the best Man of War of those times was far Inferior to the meanest Merchant-Man now adays . For the space of about 174 years , viz. from 833 , to 1017. was this poor Kingdom harrass'd by the continual Invasions of these Northern Pirates ; yet could they not in all this space catch hold of the Crown of England , till the said year 1017. and then they held it no longer than during the Reign of three Kings ; after which it reverted again to the Saxon Line . The Fourth and last Invasion was that of the Normans , if he can properly be call'd an Invader , who seems to have come in with the Consent , at least if not Invitation of several of the Nobility and Prelacy ; for else doubtless his claim could not have been so easily decided by the dint of one Battle , and he so readily have had the Crown put on his Head by Aldred Archbishop of York , who with several other Bishops and Noblemen , met him upon the way , and pay'd him their Allegiance ; and from this Norman Conqueror the Monarchy of England hath been kept up in a continued , though not Lineal Succession to this day . Among the Prae-eminences which this Kingdom hath above all the other Kingdoms of Europe , the chiefest and which most redounds to its Glory , is , that it was first Enlightned with the Knowledge of True Religion ; so that whatsoever place it may claim in Europe , it deserves at least to be esteemed the first Kingdom of Christendom : And admit that Joseph of Arimathea were not the first that Preached the Gospel here , though there are not wanting Testimonies , to make it out , not altogether contemptible : However , it is most certain , that the Christian Religion here , is of a much elder date , than the coming over of Austin the Monk ; that is , even in the very Apostles time , by the Testimony of Gildas ; and as it appears by the mention of a Noble British Lady , Claudia Rufina , in one of St. Paul's Epistles ; and it was not much above 100 years after e're it was own'd by publick Authority : For the first Christian King mention'd in History , is our British King Lucius , who was Contemporary with the Emperor Commodus , also the first Christian Emperor , at least the first that publickly Profess'd , Protected and Maintain'd the Christian Faith , ( for before him Philippus Arabs is said to have been a a Christian , and Baptiz'd ) was Constantine Surnamed the Great , a Britain Born , the Son of Constantius Chlorus ( who also was a Favourer of the Christians , and died at York ) by the Daughter of King Coilus Helena ( a Princess most renowned for her Christian Piety , and for being the Inventress of the Cross . And as this Nation boasts Antiquity equal with Rome it self , for the Dawning of the Gospel's Light among us , so it claims a Prerogative of Lighting the first Lamp of Reformation to the Christian World ; and highly glories in this , that there is no where to be found so excellent and moderate an Establishment of Church-Government among all the Reformed Churches . The Riches of the English Nation . And first of the Arable Pasture and Fruitage . THe Riches of any Nation , I mean the Native and Inland Riches , ( for by Imported Commodities , the Barrenest Nation in the World may be Rich , ) consist chiefly in the Arable , the Pasturage , the Fruits , and other Plants of peculiar Use and Advantage . The Rich Veins of Earth for Mettals and other sorts of Minerals , and the Plenty of Fish and Fowl ; all which things are both profitable in themselves , and for the Manufactures they produce ; and though common to this Nation , with the greatest part of the Earth in general , yet it will not be from the purpose to discover how far the English Nation excels in each of them , and what parts of the Nation are most peculiarly fam'd and commended for this or that Production . As to the Arable , it would be in vain to particularize any one part of England more than another , since so great Plenty of all sorts of Corn and Grain is produced in all parts of this Nation . Nevertheless , it is worth the observing , how some Counties are more peculiarly celebrated for this or that Grain : I have heard it affirm'd , that the very best Wheat in England is from a Vale near Hessen in Middlesex , lying Southward of Harrow on the Hill ; however among the four W's of Herefordshire , Wheat is one , the other three being Wool , Wood and Water . Moreover for Oates , if there be any where one sort better than another , the best Oats are said to be in Lancashire , and in greater abundance than any other County ; and for Barly and Malt , Bedfordshire hath among some a particular mention . Moreover , for what is said in general of some places above others : It is sufficiently considerable which is reported of the Town of Godmanchester in Huntingtonshire , in reference to the great Name that Town hath for Tillage , and its Prae-eminence above all the Towns of England ; besides for number of Stout and Able Husbandmen , namely that the Inhabitans of this Place us'd in former times to meet the Kings of England as they pass'd this way in their Progress , in a kind of Rural Pomp and Pageantry of show , with no fewer than 180 Ploughs ; and in this manner King James at his first coming to the Crown of England was received in his Journey from Scotland , with 70 Team of Horses , fitted with all their Furniture to as many New Ploughs ; the King expressing much Delight and Satisfaction at so Brave and Happy a Sight , and highly applauded the Industry and well deserved Prosperity of the people of that Place . Remarkable also is the Vale of Evesham in Worcestershire , so called of one Eoves a Swinheard to Egwin Bishop of Worcester , so Renowned for its Fertility and excellent kind of Corn it yields , that it is called the Granary of those parts . The Vale of Alisbury in Buckinghamshire , is also particularly taken notice of for its Pleasant Meadows and Rich Pastures . Nor are the Sheep-Pastures near Knetworth in Hartfordshire , which is called the Garden of England , to be forgotten . Portholm Meadow also in Huntingtonshire is reckon'd among the Notabilia of that County . The like may be said in a great measure of the Pasturage : However there are some places so peculiarly remark'd either for the Largeness or Richness of their Pastures , that the mention of them cannot well be omitted . The Isle of Shepey in Kent being about 21 Miles in compass , is without question so denominated from the numerous Flocks of Sheep which it feedeth . No less celebrated is Rumny-Marsh , heretofore a part of the Sea , under the Name of Romanum Mare , which by common Speech is easily corrupted into Rumnense Marshium : Of this Marsh , Twine in his Commentary , De rebus Anglicis , making a particular mention , thus concludes , Denique unde tot pingues peeudes , &c. Lastly , saith he , Whence so many Fat Cattle come to the Shambles , that not only all Kent is largely supplied from this place , but even the City of London also , in some measure fares the better . In the Marsh-Country of Norfolk commonly called Marsh-Land ; the Soyl is so very Mellow and Fruitful , that in a certain large Mead called Tilneysmeth , there are said generally to feed no less than 30000 Sheep at a time . Wormleighton in Warwickshire , breeds Sheep of so large a size , that there are scarce the like to be seen elsewhere . Lemster upon the River Lug in Herefordshire , feeds a Breed of Sheep which yields so Fine and Delicate a Wool , that our Noble Poet Draiton in his Polyolbion , compares it to the Wool of Apulia and Tarentum , which hath been always accounted the Finest Wool of Europe . The Bread also of Lemster is no less noted by reason of the Fineness of its Flower , insomuch that Lemster Bread and Weably Ale are united into a Proverb , as Leigh observes in his Description of England . Likewise the Sheep of Cotswold ( i. e. a place of Sheep-Cotes or Folds upon a Hill ) in Glocestershire , yield so Fine a Wool , that nothing but the Spanish Wool can outvy it , and this advantage it owes to a Present that was made by King _____ to _____ King of Spain , very much to the prejudice of England , as it hath since proved . Somerton once the chief Town , as some say , of Somersetshire , and gave the denomination to the Shire , consists almost wholly , with the Country thereabout , of Grasiers and Breeders of Cattle . After the Wool of Lemster and Cotswold , that of the Isle of Wight comes next in estimation . Besides those places above-mentioned , there is one more , which for its largeness and Fruitfulness alike , is worthy to be mentioned , viz. The Vale of the Whitehorse , which is partly in Wiltshire , and partly in Barkshire . For Fruit , there is scarce any County in England that is not tolerably well stor'd in one sort or other ; but above all for Cherries , and now of late for Pippins , Kent bears the Name ; and particularly Tenham , which is commonly styl'd the Parent of Fruit Gardens : But the first Pippins brought over , that is about 100 years since , were Planted in that part of Lincolnshire called Holland ; and about Kirton in the same Shire : Nor are our Cherries of much longer date , being first brought over from Flanders in the Reign of King Henry the Eight , and Planted in Kent , with that Success , that one only Orchard of but 32 Acnes , is said to have produced in one year , as much as yielded 1000 l. For all sorts of Apples and Pears , and for great quantity of excellent Syder , which furnish London and many other parts , Worcestershire , Glocestershire and Herefordshire , are the principal Counties . Vines we have very frequent among us of several sorts , producing for the most part a very Sweet and Pleasant Grape , and good quantities of Wine , I have heard say , have been formerly made . At this day there are two places principally Eminent for making of Wine , viz. Claverton in Somersetshire , a Seat of Sir William Bassets , where there are said to have been made some years , no less than 40 Hogsheads of a very pleasant and palatable Wine , and in Kent belonging to Collonel Blunt. At Hatfield-House in Hertfordshire , belonging to the Earl of Salisbury , there is a parcel ground called the Vineyard , no doubt from the Plenty and goodness of the Vines there Planted . And in Glocestershire there are several places called Vineyards , out of which in former times , they yearly payed Rent-Wines , from the Plenty of Vines no doubt here growing . Moreover it is found in Ancient Records , that several Towns of this Shire payed Rent-Wines , as Dr. Fuller in his Worthys particularly observes . Of other Productions . BEsides those Beasts and Cattel which are of advantage for Food and Cloathing , and which no Country of Europe , perhaps of the World , bring forth more fair and large than England : There are some Beasts of service , which being common to England with other parts of Europe , are generally commended to be of a more excellent Kind than any , especially that which is the most serviceable of all others , viz. the Horse , with all manner of respects considered , is doubtless the most noble and useful of all four-footed Beasts ; for though the Elephant , Camel , and Dromedary , with which most places of Asia , and many of Africa , abound , are more remarkable for vast bulk of body , especially the Elephant , and consequently more capable of carriage and bearing of great burthens ; yet the same greatness of bulk renders them on the other side more unfit for expedition : and for the Ass and Mule , which indeed are fairer , larger , and more numerous in Spain and other Countries of Europe , than in this Kingdom , they are not certainly to be compar'd either for shape , service , or expedition with the forementioned Animal ; nor was ever any Grandee of Spain journying on his Mule with the Grand Pa and Spanish gravity so comely a sight , as a well accoutred Cavalier on horseback : and of all parts of England , Montgomeryshire is commended for excellent Horses : The Truth is , the Spanish Jenet , that of Barbary Race commonly , therefore called the Barbary : The Count of Oldenburgh's Breed in Germany , have the Name before all others for Swiftness , delicacy of Shape and Neatness , of Mark or Colour ; but for Courage , Ability of Body , either for Travel , Draught or Carriage , sufficient Swiftness and Agility , Tractableness for the Great Saddle and Management in War ; the Horses of English Breed , are reputed hardly matchable by those of any other Country : And our Dogs much less , by the Testimony of divers Eminent Authors ; Ortelius in his Theatrum Orbis Terrarum , affirms , that there is no part of the Earth , where there are better and larger Dogs to be seen , especially Hounds , he might also have added Mastives : To the same effect Cambden writes of our Dogs in general in his Hantshire and Middlesex : Burton also in his Commentaries on Antoninus his Itinerary , prefers the British Hounds and Mastives before those of any other Country whatsoever . And of our Mastives a Spanish Geographer of good Account , Lucas de Linda , in his Descriptio Orbis , saith , That they are the Bravest , the Largest and the Fiercest of any in the World beside : Moreover , that they were in great Request Anciently among the Romans , and made use of in their publick Games and Baitings , exhibited in their Amphitheaters , appears by this Verse of the Poet Claudian : Magnaque Taurorum fracturi Colla Britani . There are likewise some other sorts of Dogs of English Breed , which though not so much taken notice of by Authors , I am apt to imagine , are no less excellent and supereminent in their kind , than those above mention'd , as namely , Water-Spaniels , Grey-Hounds , Setting-Dogs , and such like of Sport and Game . Lastly , that sort of Dogs that serve only for Show and the slightest of Divertisement ; I really believe that for Neatness of Mark and Delicacy of Shape , there are scarce to be found elsewhere the like to our Beagles and little Spaniels ; and this will appear the more evident to those that shall observe this one thing : namely , that whereas it is a general Curiosity ( not to say Vanity ) among our English Gentry , to admire and delight in Birds , Beasts , and other things , brought over from France and other Foreign Parts , as Parots from _____ Monkeys from _____ we find few or none of these above-mention'd Creatures , but what are English , at least none so curiously Mark'd and Limb'd as ours . There is said to be bred about Portsmouth , a race of very little Dogs , which by their shape seem to be of the Species of Beagles . As for the Cats of England , it is observable , that the number of Fine Tabby-Cats that are finely Spotted , and as it were Marbled , hath very much increased of late years , whereby it may be probably conjectur'd , that some kinds of those so Curiously Cloathed Cats , have been brought hither from other parts , and particularly those of Cyprus , have been accounted for their Marbled Coats , the choicest of all others ; but setting aside the consideration of the Curious Mark or Colour , to shew how far ours have the Preeminence in the exercise of that faculty which nature hath implanted in this sort of Creature , that is , the Catching of Mice and other such Vermine ; there needs no other instance , than the History of a very Rich Lord Mayor of London , some few Ages ago , who first raised his Fortune from the Venture of an English Cat. As for the Eatable Cattle , and several Beasts of Game , some places we find there are , which claim a special Propriety to this or that particular kind . The best Oxen in England are said to be in Lancashire : In the New-Forrest in Hantshire , there is very great store of Red-Deer . A late Park near New-market in Cambridgeshire , was called Hare-Park , by reason of the multitude of Hares , Rabbetts ; the best and most are said to be in Norfolk ; yet I cannot think they much exceed those of Auburn-Chace ( belonging to my Lord of Pembroke ) in Wiltshire . The best Hogs in Hantshire . Of Birds there are few ( if any ) sorts wanting here , which are frequent in other parts of England , whether the most Curious of Singing Birds , the choicest Fowl both Wild and Tame for the Table , or Birds of Game and Delight : But of some it is observ'd , that what are bred in this Country , are peculiarly commendable above others , especially the Gallinaceous kind . Pliny observes of the Cock , that it is a Bold and Stout Bird , and crows in sign of Triumph immediatly after Victory , and doubtless scarce any Country affords so Couragious and Martial a Race of Game-Cocks as England ; a right Cock of the Game seldom or never ceasing on this side Death or Victory . Nor do I remember to have read or heard Report of any Country where the Sport of Cock-Fighting , of which our Countryman Ascham hath written a Learned Treatise , is so much used as here : Thus the Dog among Beasts , and the Cock among Birds , seem proper Emblems of true English Valour : However let us not repose our chiefest glory in this Vertue alone , but strive to excel in others of a higher nature , which are proper to man alone , since Valour , we see , is a Vertue common to Man with Brute . In the Rocks of Pembrokeshire are Hawks of an extraordinary kind , but chiefly of the Species of the Faulcon : In the Forrest of Shirwood in Nottinghamshire , and in the Forrest of Dean in Glocestershire , the Hawk called the Lanar , whose Female is the Laneret , is very frequent : Near Kinsland in _____ is often seen the Hawk called Lanius , the Butcher or Murthering Bird. Along the Sea-Coasts of England , from the West as far as Dover ; but chiefly upon the Sea-Coasts of Cornwal , there frequents a sort of Chough or Jack-daw , which is thence commonly called the Cornish Chough , supposed the same with the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of Aristotle . In New-Forrest in Hantshire chiefly breeds the Vpupa or Hoop . In the Fens of Lincolnshire the Attagen or Godwitt . On Newmarket-Heath and Salisbury-Plains , the Bistarda or Bustard . In the Isle of Thanet a sort of Wild-Goose , commonly called a Birgander , in Latin Vulpancer . In several parts of Cornwal , two sorts of Birds , rarely seen elsewhere , viz. the Puffin and the Ganet . Also in Lincolnshire the Foolish Bird called the Dottrel , is so frequent , that the people of those parts have very good Sport in the Catching of it , as Cambden relates . The places of England most eminenly Famous for several sorts of Fish , are New-castle upon Tine for Salmon ; as also Bywell in Northumberland , and the River Wye in Herefordshire , also the River Lune near Cockerfand-Abbey in Lancashire . The Coast of Cornwall for Herrings ; there being there so great a Trade of Herring-Fishing , that there is scarce the like again in any place of Europe ; at Limmouth also in Dorcetshire there is taken great quantity of Herrings ; at Yarmouth in Norfolk , the Herrings are very large and good , and are therefore called Yarmouth Capons . Shrewsbury and some other places thereabout upon the Severn , for a Fish call'd a Mort , which in Taste hath very much of the Salmon in it ; Sussex in general for Carps : For Lobsters Chichester , the chief Town of Sussex , and Selsey ( so called , qu. Isle of Seals or Sea-Calves ) in the same County ; the first for small ones , but very Sweet and well Tasted ; the second for those esteemed , not only because of their Goodness , but also their Fulness and Largeness ; for Cockles ▪ the same Selsey . For Oysters Colchester , the chief Town of Essex , and several places of Kent , especially Whitstaple and Reculver , which for Oysters of savoury saltness , exceed all other parts of that County , especially Reculver . There is a sort of small Fish called a Pilchard , commonly about the bigness of a Herring ( though I have heard say , that in some parts of Cornwall there have been taken Pilchards an Ell long ) and not much differing in shape in several places on the Sea-coasts of Cornwall . At a place called Foreditch in Kent , there are Trouts of a treble remark : First , That they equal Salmon in Largeness . Secondly , That they remain nine Months in the Sea , and three in Fresh-water . Thirdly , That contrary to the nature of all other Trouts , they have been known but once to have been taken in that place with an Angle , so much more cunning they are than all the rest of their kind . In the River Kennet near Hungerford in Barkshire , there is great plenty of Trouts , remarkably large and good ; also the Town of Hungerford it self , Marlborough , and some other Places thereabout , are noted for plenty and goodness of Cray-Fish . The River Stowr in Dorcetshire hath a particular commendation for Tenches , as some parts of Cambridgeshire for the best Eels , and Lincolnshire for plenty of Pikes : But there is also another Stowr in Kent , which runs through Canterbury , and is said to breed the best Trouts in the South-East of England : Yet those of Cashalton in Surry are accounted excellent Trouts . In Miander-Meer in Lancashire , there breeds a sort of Fish called a Chare , which they say is no where else to be found . Much more might be said , ( but that it is not our business to dwell upon any particular , but to take a general Survey of several things ) of the Animals which our Country excels in above others ; but to speak of the Minerals and Vegetables which this Island produceth , would require each a large Volume ; and though we have no Mines of Gold , yet the many Mines we have of other Mettalls , as Iron , Lead , Tin , Copper , &c. ( and it is said some discoveries have been also made of Silver , besides Mines of Allum ▪ Coal and other Minerals , would , if utmost Improvement were made of our Trade and Manufacture , make a considerable compensation . The Stanneries or Tin-Mines of Cornwall and Devonshire have been famous from all Antiquity : And whereas it hath been formerly taken for granted , that the Britains were unknown to the rest of the World before the Arrival of the Romans ; there are not wanting who are of Opinion , and have confirmed their Opinion with probable Evidences , that the Ancient Inhabitants of this Island , long before the Romans Arrival , had Commerce with the Greeks and Phaenicians ; and that because they would not admit of Strangers into their Country , therefore they made the Isles of Scilly the Mart for the vending of their Tin ; whereupon some suppose them to be those Islands which the Ancients called the Cassiterides , which imports as much as Tin-Isles ; not as having any Tin-Mines in them , but as being the Mart , as we said before , for the Vending of that Commodity . And of all parts in Cornwall , Godolphin-Hill is particularly taken notice of for its Rich and Plentiful Veins of Tin. Nor do the Mines of Cornwall abound in Tin only , but 't is said there have been quantities of Metallick Oar that have contain'd a mixture of Gold and Silver ; and very memorable is the tradition of a quantity of Silver Oar , dig'd out of a place in the Parish of Comb-Martin in Devonshire , out of which William Wimondham coin'd 270 weight of Silver for Elionor Dutchess of Bar. A place called Newlands in Cumberland , is rich in Copper Mines , and hath some store of Black-Lead ; especially about Keswick . In this County also , the Stone called Lapis Calaminaris , is said to have been here first found : But much of this Lapis Calaminaris is digg'd out of Mendip-hills in Somersetshire . At Wenlock in Shropshire , in the Reign of King Richard the second , there was found a Rich Copper Mine . The Rich Mines of Iron in the Forrest of Dean in Glocestershire , have been an occasion of making those Woods very thin , in respect of what they have been formerly . Kent hath several Iron Mines , and also Veins of Marl. Darbyshire abounds much in Minerals , and several kinds of Stones ; particularly in the Peak of Darby , there are Mines that afford plenty of Lead , likewise Stibium or Antimony , also store of Mill-stones and Whet-stones ; nor less noted are the Lead-Mines on Mendip-hills in Staffordshire : As also those on the Hills of Richmondshire , where there are likewise Copper-Mines ; near Moinglath in Denbyshire , is a plentiful Vein of Lead : So likewise in the Abby of Fountains in Yorkshire , not far from whence in the same Shire is store of Iron : Other Mines also there are , which though not so Rich , are no less useful than those of Mettal ; as Alom , Coal , Free-stone , Fullers-earth , Marl , with all which , take one with another , there is surely no Nation better stor'd ; and indeed our Salt-pits are no other than a kind of Liquid-Mines . It is no less wonderful to observe what abundant Supplies of Fewel are yearly sent up from the Coal-Mines of Newcastle to this Vast City of London , and other parts of the Nation , besides what is Exported into Foraign parts ; then it may seem hard to conjecture how this City could subsist before the discovery of this great Mine , which was not till the year 1305. Since we find by experience , upon any occasion of the obstructing of this Newcastle Fleet , and the raising of the Price of Coals , into what great distress and inconveniency the City is thereupon reduc'd ; but then it must be considered that the City then was nothing near so large as now , and the Country far better stor'd with Wood ; the want whereof for Firing , is not the only prejudice the Nation hath sustain'd by the vast quantity of Timber that hath been fell'd of late Ages ; the number of Alehouses is also increas'd ten to one , at least within these 100 years , and proportionably , as may well be imagin'd , the number of Brewhouses to supply them with Drink ; which Houses cannot be maintain'd and carry on their Trade , without a wonderful quantity of Fewel : Nor need it be wondred how other great Cities are able to subsist without the like convenience ( as doubtless there is scarce any City of the World that hath the like advantage for Fewel ) considering the difference of Climate , of Customs , of manner of Living , and of Diet. There are who speak of Blackheath , as a place no less sufficiently abounding with Pit-Coal to serve the City of London and parts adjacent , than Newcastle it self , but are willing to believe that the grand security of these Coal-pits , lies in the great prejudice to Navigation , which the breaking of them up would occasion , in regard this Colliers Trade between Newcastle and London is the greatest Nursery of Seamen we have ; which objection would easily cease , could the Fishing Trade be once promoted , till when the Coal Mines of Blackheath must of necessity be laid aside . There is also Sea-Coal , like that of Newcastle at Wedsborough in the East-Riding in Yorkshire : Likewise up and down in many of the Inland parts of England , there is abundance of Pit-Coal of another nature , that is too say , not Caking or Clinging together ( a quantity of small Particles ) into one great lump or mass , like that of Newcastle ; but as it is laid on in great pieces , burning sheer away into Ashes , each piece like Wood. Up and down in several parts of Darbyshire and Staffordshire , there is a sort of Pit-Coal , which is commonly called Cannel-Coal , perhaps as it were Candle-Coal , because it burns clear like a Candle ; this Coal is of a bright shining gloss , and withal of so tough and solid a substance , that they frequently make thereof Standishes , Salt-Sellers , Candlesticks and other such like Utensils , which appear as it were of a courser sort of Jett . In Staffordshire , Pensneth-Chace is particularly made mention of for plenty of Pit-Coal . In Leicestershire , Coal-Overton in the Hundred of West-Goscot , and other parts of the North of this County , where there is store of Pit-Coal of a Bituminous nature , very hard and fast : In Warwickshire , Bedworth : In Somersetshire , Mendip-hill , and several places on the shore of the River Frome : In Richmondshire , the tops of certain Hills . In the Isle of Anglesey there is said to be great store of an Aluminous Matter , out of which it is thought might be made very good Alum and Copperass , but nothing of this nature hath been brought to that perfection , as the Alum-works in Yorkshire , through the great Industry of Sir John Bourchier , who in the Reign of King James made away with a considerable Estate for the carrying on of this great work , in lieu whereof he obtain'd the grant of a Patent from the King , whereby he was Invested with the whole benefit of the said Alumwork , which was valued at a Thousand Pound a year ; but however matters were carried , his Grandchild Mr. Richard Bourchier , is now reduc'd to utmost necessity , receiving no relief by vertue of the Patent for the loss of the Paternal Estate : But Gesborough in this Shire is most particularly noted for an Alum-Mine , which some say was first found out by Sir Thomas Chaloner Tutor to Prince Henry . As for the Stone-Quarries of England , they must indeed be confess'd inferior to those of Italy , Greece , and other parts , for all Curious kinds of Marble , Alabaster and Porphyrie ▪ ( of Marble the Parian was Anciently accounted the best : ) However we have many Structures both publick and private to shew , which being built of our own native Free-stone , want not their State and Elegance . The principal Magazine of this Commodity , is the Isle of Portland in Dorcetshire , which hath supplied many of the grand Buildings of England . Likewise the Isle of Purbeck in the same Shire , hath Veins of Marble , which though not continued , but scatteringly here and there , as Cambden observes , yet run a great way under ground . At Edgcomb House near Plimouth in Cornwall , there is digg'd good quantity of a Stone , which is of great use and Ornament in Building ; also on the Moors of the said County , there is found a sort of Stone , which is thence called the Moor-stone , of which there are frequently made Chimney-Pieces and Ornaments of Windows and Doors ; besides another sort of the colour of Marble . In Nottinghamshire there is digg'd a soft Stone , at least much softer than Alabaster , with which being burnt and made into a Plaster , they generally floor their Upper-Rooms , this Plaster being well laid , as soon as it comes to be dry , proves harder than any Plaster of Paris , and is wonderful durable . In Herefordshire , hard by Snodhill-Castle , is a Quarry , from whence they say there is digg'd forth very good Marble . At a place called Peter's - post in Yorkshire , is a famous Quarry of Stone ; also near Shirburn in the same Shire : Nor is that near Manchester in Laneashire inconsiderable ; besides a Quarry of a fine Reddish-stone on the Banks of the River Irwell in the same Shire : Moreover , what we want in Alabaster , Porphyrie Marble , &c. is more than compensated to us by Stones of a greater value , particularly in Cornwall , there are found in great quantities Stones of a natural Smoothness , formed into Angles , and considerably large , some of the bigness of a Walnut , or thereabout , and of such a lustre , that many scruple not to call them Diamonds , and probably they might pass for such , did not the cunning Lapidary know how to distinguish the true Orient Diamond from others by its Adamantine hardness and solidity : Likewise St. Vincents Rock at Bristol affords plenty of these English Diamonds , commonly called Bristol Stones : At Shugbury in Warwickshire is a sort of precious Stone , at least by some so accounted , called Astroites , from a mark it hath upon it resembling a Star. And on the Rocks of Guarnsey , there is a hard Stone called an Emeril . Nor are we wholly destitute of Marble and Alabaster , though doubtless short for Beauty and Fineness to those of Italy and Greece ; in some parts of Staffordshire there is digg'd a sort of Alabaster , thought to be the best in England . Fullers-Earth , Potters-Earth , Marl , Lime , Slate , Tobacco-Pipe-Clay , &c. There are large Veins in several parts , particularly Woburn in Bedfordshire abounds in Fullers-Earth ; as also Rigate in Surry : In some parts of Wiltshire the store of Marl that is found there , gives Appellation to one of the chief Towns of that Shire , viz. Marlborough , and in divers parts of Lancashire , is found a Marl , which very much enriches the Land. Near Nonsuch in Surry is a large Vein of Potters-Earth . Near Walsal in Sussex , are store of Lime-Pits : And not many Miles from Pomfret in Yorkshire , it being averr'd by some that no less than 2000 l. a year usually made of the Lime thereabouts . In some parts of Cornwall there is Slate of three sorts and colours , viz. The Blew , the Grey , and the Sage-colour ; particularly at a place called Walling-slate in Cornwall , is digg'd up great store of Slate : As also at Collyweston in Northamptonshire , at Pool in Dorcetshire , and in the Isle of Wight the best Tobacco-Pipe-Clay . And to the Mill-stones of the Peak before mentioned , we may add those digg'd up at Mowcup in Cheshire . There is a sort of Earth called Talcum , us'd by Painters and Colourers , of which store is dig'd up in several parts of Sussex : And the best of Saltpeter , is said to be found in Northamptonshire . Out of the Salt-pits of England is extracted so white and fine a sort of Salt , that the most refined Sugar looks not more white and fine ; it is also commonly made up into Masses , in the form of Sugar-Loaves : Most of these Wiches , the most noted , are in Cheshire , all denominated accordingly , viz. Nantwich , Middlewich and Northwich ; Nantwich , besides the consideration of its Salt-pit , which is generally called the Whitewich , is next to the City of Chester it self , the most Eminent Town of all Cheshire : Middlewich hath two Pits , between which there runs a small Brook and parts them : The Pit in Northwich is called the Black-wich ; I suppose because the Salt drawn hence is Blacker and Courser than any of the rest . In Worcestershire , there is also a place of principal note for these Wiches or Salt-pits , viz. Droit-Wich , or Dirt-Wich , where there are three Wells , whose water from Christmass till Midsummer is of so Brackish a nature , that all that time they boil great quantities of Salt out of it in Furnaces , which for that end are erected near the Wells ; whereas all the rest of the year the water is so fresh , that no Salt can be extracted out of it . As for those Plants and Shrubs which are most peculiarly of the growth of England , it would be too particular a Subject for this so general a Work , to assign each its several place , as there are very many places where this or that Herb , Tree or Shrub , hath as it were its peculiar nativity and education : All the whole County of Buckingham is denominated from the great number of Beech-Trees there growing : The Isle of Scalny in Pembrokeshire , is almost all over grown with Wild-Time ; But there are some Plants , which being of themselves not ordinary or common , or of a more than common Vertue or Efficacy , do so much the more signalize the places where they grow , especially being the only noted places of their production . The Saffron about Walden in Essex , is so eminently reputed above the Saffron of any other parts , that that Town is never mentioned but by the name of Saffron-Walden . Pomfret ( in Yorkshire ) so called , quasi Pontfract or Broken-Bridge ; besides its strong and stately Castle , is noted for the great quantity of Liquorice that grows thereabout , ( as also a sort of Plant called Skirworts , whose Root is much esteem'd and Eaten by the Curious for a great delicacy , by reason of its Richness and high Nourishment : ) Nor is Worksop in Nottinghamshire less eminent for Liquorice . Hallifax in the West-Riding of Yorkshire , is noted for several things which we shall have occasion to make mention of elsewhere : But among other things the Nuts growing thereabout , are by way of eminency call'd Hallifax Nuts . At Barklow in Essex , there grows in great abundance an Herb , bearing Red-Berries , called Danewort , from a Tradition that it sprang first from the Blood of the Danes : On the Cliffs between Deal and Dover , great plenty of Samphire grows ; Westward from Dengeness in Kent , Pease spring up naturally in Clusters like Grapes , and differ not much in Taste from common-field Pease . Between Sandwich and the Isle of Thanet , a kind of Hops is observed to grow naturally among the Beach and Pebbles ; Garlick is no where better nor more plentiful , than at Stratton in Cornwall : Several parts of Devonshire , and Porbery most peculiarly in Somersetshire , produce wild Strawberies in abundance ; no less noted is Axminster in Devonshire for Hurtleberries . At Summervil near Chappel , two Mile from Blanford in Dorcetshire , on on the hither side of the River at Sturpain , there is a most plentiful production of Madder ; how long this Plant hath been in England is uncertain , but it is above 50 years since a considerable quantity of it was produced at Barn-Elms in Surry ; and Sir Nicholas Crisp sow'd several sorts of it , as Crop-Madder , Umber Ow , and Pipe or flat Madder at Deptford in Kent , which County affords plenty of Flax ; but the best Hemp is said to grow between Bemister and Birdport in Dorcetshire . St. Foin or Holy-Hay , was first brought out of France from about Paris , and first sow'd at Copt-Hall in Kent . Tamarisk was first brought over from Switzerland by Bishop Tindal in the days of Queen Mary ( from whose displeasure he fled ) and planted in his Garden at Fullham . On the top of Pendle-hill in Lancashire , there grows a Plant peculiar to that place called Cloudesberry , probably for that it seems as it were to come out of the Clouds . In the Fens of Cambridgeshire , there is commonly gathered an Herb call'd Water-Germander ; in Latin Scordium , which being the chief Ingredient , consequently gives name to that great Alexipharmacon , so much known and used among us called Diascordium . About Glastenbury in Somersetshire , there is plenty of Woad ; and at Cashalton in Surry of excellent Walnuts . Of the Wonders and Rarities of England . THe Wonders of England consist chiefly in Stones , Caves , Lakes , Fountains , Ditches , and several prodigious Tumuli or Hillocks cast up by Art and Labour ; there was never doubtless heard of in any part of the World , so miraculous a Monument of Stones , for so it is generally supposed to be , as that on Salisbury-Plain , within six or seven Miles of Salisbury , commonly called Stone-henge ; it appears to have been a treble row of Stones , circularly plac'd one within another , and rear'd streight up on end , notwithstanding they are of a prodigious bigness , that is to say , 28 Foot long for the most part , and 7 Foot broad , besides others of a vast bulk ( though not so big as the upright ones ) which lye overthwart from one to another , and are fastened with Tenent and Mortis ; but the form of this wonderful Structure is very much defac'd , some of the greater Stones being either fallen , or reclining towards the ground , and many of the overthwart Stones being fallen ; how such huge Stones could be brought thither , by whom , and upon what occasion , is disputed by Writers ; the most that hath been said on this Subject is written by Mr. Inigo Jones Surveyor General to King James , and his late Majesty King Charles the first , and Dr. Charleton , both various , and oft times contrary in their Opinions , and possibly neither of them altogether in the right : About half a dozen Mile further on the Plain towards Hungerford , I have observed ( nor do I remember it to have been taken notice of by any one else ) a Stone of a great bulk , but not above a Foot and a half in heighth from the ground , which though of the same hardness and solidity with those above mentioned , hath the top of it driven all over full of Nails of the largest size . There is also a part of the Plain between Marleborough and Caun , which being strew'd all over with Stones of a Grey colour , is therefore called the Grey Weathers ; the least of these Stones being of a considerable bigness , and some very large ; those of the ordinary size seeming to be of about half a dozen or half a score Pound weight , one with another ; and here and there in some odd nooks , a little out of the Road , a large Stone reared up on end , like those at Stone-henge , and sometimes not much inferior in bulk . In Staffordshire there is a Market-Town called Stone , from a large heap of Stones cast up there , as a Monumental mark of Infamy upon Wulpher the Mercian , who in this very place sacrific'd to his Heathenish fury his two Sons , Wulfald and Rufinus , for no other cause than their imbracing the Christian Faith. Near Burrowbridge , a little Town in Yorkshire , there are four Stones of a very vast bulk , and Pyramidally shap'd , suppos'd to be erected by the Romans , in memory of some great Victory thereabouts obtain'd . Upon the Hills near North-Tine in Northumberland , though Boggy and full of water , there are great heaps of Stones , which some take for a Memorial of some great Battle there fought . Near Enisham in the South part of Oxfordshire , there are Stones called Roll-rich-stones , erected in manner of those at Stone-henge ; which certain fabulous Traditions have rendred to have been men so transform'd ; but more certain History delivers them the Monument of a great Battle there fought by Rollo the Dane . At Bosken in Cornwall there is another of 18 large Stones erected , and plac'd in a circular figure 12 Foot distant each from the other ; a Trophy of some Roman or Saxon Victory . In the same County are other Monumental Stones called the Hurlers , which fabulous Tradition will have to be the Stony Metamorphosis of certain Humane Creatures , but common reason gives the same conjecture of them as of the foremention'd . The like may be said of two other large Stones erected in St. Clares Parish , in one whereof there is an Inscription in strange and intelligible Characters ; other Remarks there are in the same County form'd by Nature only , as that Pile of Rocks one upon the other , called Wring-Cheese , near the lowest of them , having the resemblance of a Cheese hard press'd , by the accumulation of Rocks upon it ; the other is a very wonderful Rock call'd Main-Amber , near Pensans ; this Rock lies upon lesser Rocks , in such an exact equilibrium , that what the push of a Finger , can stir and cause as it were to totter , not the greatest force imaginable is able to displace . Likewise by Helford , is a vast Rock lying on the ground , the top whereof being hollow , containeth water which ebbeth and floweth like the Sea. Three Miles from Tunbridge , on the edge of Sussex , there lye scattered up and down in a dry Sandy-ground , divers Craggy-stones of a considerable magnitude ; the two biggest whereof standing close together , seem by the crease which divides them in a straight line , as if they were but just saw'd asunder . In the same County , near Tenderden-Steeple , is a Stone , which by the falling of the Rain , palpably gathers increase of bulk . At Exmore in Devonshire , are great Stones erected , some in a Circular , some in a Triangular form , in memory doubtless of some Roman , Saxon or Danish Victory . In Westmorland , near the River Loder , there are Pyramidal Stones pitched for a Mile together , some 9 , some 14 Foot thick . At Salcelds upon the River Eden in Cumberland , is a Monumental Trophy , consisting of 77 Stones , called by the Inhabitants Long-Meg and her Daughters ; one of which Stones alone , called the Long-Meg , being 15 Foot high from the ground , all the rest but 10. On the Hill called Mindgate-Morgan in Glamorganshire , there is a Monument superscrib'd with a very fatal Character ; for it hath been received from those that live thereabout , that whoever reads it shall die soon after , if there be not a fallacy herein , viz. That the Character is so strange and uncouth that no man is able to read it . Some places are noted for Stones of another kind , that is to say , whose Rarity consists in the unusualness of their Figure . At Alderly in Glocestershire , upon the top of certain Hills are found Oysters , Cockles and Periwinkles of solid Stone ; and at Puckle-Church in the same Shire , there is a Vein of Blew-stone , consisting of several Stones , Smooth , Square , and about half a Foot thick , as it were Artificial and ready cut out fit for work ; they lye about seven or eight one upon another , as it were in beds very near , contiguous to each other for about the length of a Pearch . And at Lassington in Glocestershire , there is plenty of that which we call the Star-stone , being of the figure of a Mullet , or what we commonly picture for a Star , of a Grey colour , and of the circumference of a single Penny , but the thickness of half a Crown ; they stick together in Columns of about three or four Inches long , and being singly put into Vinegar , they naturally move and tend towards a Unition . Near Sayworth in Wiltshire , are Stones that have a very near resemblance of Cockles . In a Town call'd Cainsham , in the Road-way between Bath and Bristol , and in the High-way thereabout , there are Stones frequently to be seen wreathing in a Spiral form like Snails ; this Town is commonly Nick-nam'd Smoaky-Cainsham upon this occasion : Some years since one of the Townsmen standing at his door with Tears in his Eyes , and being ask'd by one of his Neighbours that observ'd him as he pass'd by , what the cause of his Grief was , answered , That there was so great a Smoak in his house that he was not able to endure to stay within doors ; When in truth he had been newly beaten by his Wife : Whereupon Travellers now and then to make themselves Sport , will ask , Whether that Town be called Smoaky-Cainsham : But the wiser sort of those that ask this question , prepare at the same instant to put on to a more than ordinary speed , for fear of some Hostility from the good Women of the place . At Whitbay in Yorkshire , are Stones of a Serpentine Figure : Also in the Stone-Quarry at Kingham in Somersetshire . On Rosemary-Topping a Hill in Yorkshire , are Stones found in the shape of Sea-winkles and Cockles : At Huntly-Nab in the same County , at the roots of the Rocks , are Stones as perfectly round as any Ball , in which broken , are the shapes of Stony-Serpents , all but the head . Of the Caves of England , those of principal remark are , First , Ochy-hole near Wells in Somersetshire ; it is a Cave of large extent into the earth , and in which , those that have made the farthest Incursions , are said to have discerned many Rivulets and Caverns , or hollow Recesses . Secondly , A Cave very much talk'd of , under an Old Castle in the Peak of Darby , commonly called the Devils Arse in Peak ; there is a strange story told by one Gervasius , of a Swinherd belonging to one William de Penerel , sometime Lord of the Place . This Swinherd having lost a Sow great with Pig , is said to have entred in earnest quest thereof into the mouth of this Cave , and passing through several obscure Nooks and windings , to have come at length into a spacious Field , where among a company of Reapers he found his Masters Sow which had newly Pig'd ; and making his Case known to the chief person in Office there , brought back his Sow , together with her Pigs , returning the same way he came . Thirdly , In the same County another Cave , called Eldenhole in the Peak Forrest , which shoots directly down into the Earth , and as far as 60 yards of depth is to be seen into the mouth or entrance , on the top is about 30 yards in length , and 15 in breadth , but downwards it straightens into a much narrower space . Fourthly , Certain Caves called the Gyants Caves , between great Badmin and Lockington , on the border of Wiltshire . At a place called Oxenhall , not far from Darlington in the Bishoprick of Durham , there are three Pits of an extraordinary depth , commonly called Hell-Kettles , suppos'd to be produc'd by an Earthquake , which hapned in the year 1179. And near Tilbury in Essex , there are several Pits in a Chalky ground , which are judg'd to be no less than 12 Fathom deep . Also near Feversham in Kent , there are many Pits , which being somewhat narrow at the top , and widening towards the bottom , are distinguished into several Rooms or Apartments , and supported as it were with Pillars of Chalk . At a House of the Marquess of Worcester's at Emsbury , I have been told , that at the pulling down of an old Wall , the Labourers discovered a Cavity , which upon search led to a large Cave , where there was found a Monument of great Antiquity and Riches , which by the Character , and some other circumstances , appears to have been the Tomb of Queen Guinever , Wife to King Arthur : Near Kirby-Longdale in Westmorland , are many deep places like Caves . Fifthly , At Aberbarry in Glamorganshire , there is a Cave at the bottom of a Hill , the mouth whereof is a gaping Clift or Chink , into which , when the Wind enters , there is heard a kind of harmonious noice , as it were of Cymbals : There hath been also heard from a Clift on the Sea-side , near the Island Barry , a sound as it were of Smiths at work , and this by the Testimony of Lilius Giraldus . Lakes and Fountains there are very many among us , which have something strange and extraordinary in them : Near Brereton in Cheshire , which belongs to an Eminent Family of the same Name , there is a Pool , wherein the bodies of Trees swimming are said to presage the Death of some of the Family . There are two Lakes very near to each other , hard by St. Agnes-Hill in Cornwall , of which it is credibly reported , that in the one of them Fish will live and thrive , in the other not . In Lancashire near Furness-Fells , there is a standing water , accounted the greatest in England , commonly called Miander-Meer , being no less than 10 Miles in length , and all along paved with stone at the bottom : It is said moreover , that a Fish call'd a Ohare , breeds here only , and no where else . In Huntingtonshire there are several Lakes , ( and among the rest one called Wittlesmeer-Lake ) which in fairest weather grow tempestuous , and rage with violent surges like the Sea. In Staffordshire there are two remarkable Lakes ; of one , Necham delivers , That by its Roaring it foretells things to come , the other is call'd Mahal , of which the Tradition goes , That Horses when tir'd , drinking of the water thereof , becomes fresh as ever : Of this Gervase of Tilbury makes particular mention . On the high Hills of Carnarvonshire , there are two Meers of a strange nature ( if report be true ) for one is said to produce a sort of Fish that hath but one Eye ; the other to have a floatable Island , whereon no sooner any one sets foot , but it drives farther off from the shoar . There is also at Bala in Merionethshire , a Pool which never fills by Land-floods , though rising never so high , but in tempestuous weather , swelleth above its Banks . At Lynsavathan in Brecknockshire , is a Meer which is said to have swallowed up a City , that once stood in the room thereof ; through this Meer runs the River Levenny , keeping its own stream intire and unmix'd . At Kilken in Flintshire , is a little Well which hath a constant ebbing and flowing like the Sea. At Gigglesworth in Yorkshire there are three small Springs , of two whereof there is nothing of observable , but the middlemost hath a constant course of ebbing and flowing four times an hour ; the difference between its highest rise and lowest fall , being about eight Inches . Likewise in Derbyshire , in the Forrest of the Peak , is such another Spring ebbing and flowing 4 times an hour , observing a constant and due revolution of its tydes . On the River Ogmore in Glamorganshire , there is a Well which every full tyde in Summer time is almost destitute of water , but at ebb is replenish'd , many times very near , but never totally to an overflowing . Another there is at Carry-Castle in Caermardenshire , which ebbs and flows . Another in Westmorland , near the River Loder , which ebbs and flows several times a day . At Lemington in Warwickshire , a Salt Spring ariseth at a great distance from the Sea. Near Kenet in Wiltshire , the water breaking but of certain stones , is accounted a sign of Dearth . The River Can in Westmorland hath Cataracts , which by their fall foretell either Rain or fair Weather . The rising of a Bourn near Croiden in Surry , is said to presage Mortality . Near St. Albans in Hertfordshire , there is a Brook called , which when it breaketh out , presageth Dearth , or some other Calamity . In a private mans Yard at Pitchford in Shropshire , is a Well whose waters cast up a Skum of liquid Bitumen . In the North-riding of Yorkshire , are Wells called Tingtong Wells , three Miles within the earth . The Petrifying Wells and Springs of England are very many , nor is it worth the while to mention all of them , the chief are in these particular Places ; at Newenham or Menham-Reges in Warwickshire : Three which are also of a Medicinal quality , as being strained through Allum , at Lutterworth in Leicestershire . Near Knarisborough in York-shire , the Well-Drepa , whose Waters distil from the Rocks that hang over it . At Hodington-Hill near Oxford , upon the descent of the Hill. At Boxly Abbey near Maidston in Kent ; at Egerton in the same County . Nor are those Wells and Springs to be forgotten , among the Memorabilia of Nature , whose Waters are of a Medicinal virtue ; the chief of this nature , not only of England , but even of all Europe , for the virtue of the Waters , the Magnificence of the Structures about the Wells , and the vast resort to them ; are those famous Bathing Wells , which give denomination to the City Bath , and which were first found out by one Bladud , who is reckoned in the Catalogue of our Ancient British Kings , and renowned in History ( if it may be called History , and not rather Historical Tradition ) as well for Philosopher as King. Others there are , whose Waters esteemed for their Purging quality , are generally carous'd , as Ebsham or Epsone-Wells in Surry , those of Tunbridge in Kent , of Barnet in Hertfordshire , and now of late of North-hall in the same Shire . Now I cannot but fancy that there must needs be a very great advantage in this way of Physick , since those who Evacuate so merrily with so much divertisement , so many as it were together for good Companies sake , no doubt find a more effectual Operation , than those who coop'd up in a Melancholly Chamber , sup up a mixture of Nauseous and uncouth Ingredients out of an Apothecaries Shop : Other places there are , not altogether of no note for their Medicinal Wells , as Luckington in Wiltshire , where there is a Well called Handcocks-Well , whose greatest Virtue consists in the Cure of sore Eyes ; having also this property , that its Water is cold in Summer and hot in Winter : Eckington in Worcestershire , where there is lately discovered a Medicinal Well , accounted of great Virtue for several Distempers . Wallingborough in Northamptonshire , where upon the account of the Waters , Queen Mary lay for several weeks . Lenisham in Kent , six Miles from London , where in the year 1651. a Medicinal Water was found , which hath been since much frequented . Dulwich Wells within three Miles of London : And within the City several , but the most noted , that at the Postern-gate by Tower-hill , and that called Crowders-Well hard by Cripple-gate . Aleyceston in Huntingtonshire , where there are two small Springs , one whereof being fresh , is accounted good for the Eyes ; the other a little Brackish , for Scabs and Leprosy . Buxton in Derbyshire , where within the compass of 24 Foot , there arise out of a Rock from under a Square Structure of Free-stone 9 Springs , whereof one only is cold , all the rest very warm : But among all these , it would be an unpardonable oversight to pass by unmention'd , that famous Well of St. Winifrid , commonly called the Holy-Well in Flintshire , formerly much frequented , partly by way of Pilgrimage , partly for the great Virtue it was reputed to have in the Cure of many Maladies , through the easie Faith , no doubt , and fond Credulity of the deluded Vulgar who are always apt to pay high Adoration and ascribe miraculous Cures to the Bodies ; ●elicks , or any Memorials of persons recommended to them for Saints ; for here the Tradition goes , that the Virgin Saint Vinifrid being here Beheaded , a Fountain immediatly sprung up , as if the Earth bewailing her Martyrdom , burst forth into a ●ood of Tears ; and the Pebble-stones at the bottom of the said Fountain being observed to be of a Reddish colour , we are to suppose that they retain to this day , the tincture of the Virgins Blood : Those Springs and Waters that are on the top of high Hills , must be allowed to have something of Rarity in them , in regard to those that are not sufficiently vers'd in the knowledge of natural Causes and Productions , it may seem wonderful , that the Water should rise so high above the common Surface of the Earth : Particularly on the high Hills of Carnarvanshire , are two Meers : Also a Spring on the top of MoilenlyHills in Denbyshire . Likewise among the Wonders or Rarities of England , may be reckoned those Ditches , which stand yet as Monuments of the Art and Industry of our Forefathers . First , That on Newmarket-heath , which is commonly called the Devils-Ditch . Secondly , Wansdike in Wiltshire , a work of many Miles extent , cast up in memory of a Battle between the Mercians and West-Saxons . Thirdly , Clough d'Offa , or Offa's - ditch , a work not inferior to the former mention'd , and much upon the same occasion made . Of the Populacy of the English Nation . THe Populacy of a Nation is best estimated from the number of its Towns and Cities : The Kingdom of England proportionably to its circumference is scarce inferior to any Kingdom or Country of Europe ( which is also accounted the the most Populous of all the four parts of the World ) except France and the Low-Countries ; which last being accounted no bigger in compass than York-shire , is judged to contain as many Towns and Inhabited places , as ten times the Circuit thereof in most other Countries , and to some much superior , particularly Spain , late esteem'd the most considerable Monarchy of Christendom , and that it continues not so to this day , we may in a great measure im●●te to the paucity of people in that kingdom ; for doubtless there is nothing that conduceth more to the Strength , Grandure , Prosperity and Riches of a Nation , than the Populousness thereof , especially where Industry is in the least incourag'd , and Idleness discountenanc'd . Wherefore that Nation that will ever hope to flourish , ought to use all means and endeavours possible for the increasing of its People , and to avoid as much as may be all occasions of Depopulation . The principal causes of the Dispeopleing of Spain , which according to the Testimony of several Creditable Authors , hath been Anciently much better Peopled than at present ; have been first the multitude of Monasteries and Religious Prisons , those Receptacles of forc'd Chastity , and as they are ordered Impediments of the Worlds Lawful Increase : Next the Violent Expulsion of the Moors out of Spain , after that by a long establish'd settlement , and being habituated to the same Customs , Manners and Religion , they were become as it were one Body with the rest of the People . Lastly , Those vast Colonies sent out of Spain to maintain and possess the ample Conquests , or rather Ambitious and Bloody Invasions and Depopulations made by the the Spaniards there . The Cities and Market-Towns of England , are in number 607. to which the rest of the Burrough Towns , that is , such as send Burgesses to Parliament , and all the Inhabited Villages ( whereof some are conderable ) being added , make above 10 times the number , so that all the Parishes of England and Wales , are reckon'd 9285. and doubtless within the said circumference , which is generally computed to be about 1352 Miles , might be very well comprehended five times as many Towns or Places of Habitation , if all the Forrests , Chaces , and unimproved vast Heaths and Commons , were taken in and improved to the best advantage . It is not to be wondred at , that next to being born under a Happy Climate , the living under a Happy Government , the greatest advantage and Strength of a People , is to be numerous , proportionably to the extent of Territory they possess . Since in the first place it is apparent enough , that in a well Inhabited City , the People must needs be so much the better able to defend themselves from any Force or Opposition . Next , if it be a place of any Trade , take any particular number of what Trade soever , and it is not to be imagin'd that they should be e're a whit the poorer , but rather the richer , than if the Inhabitants had been fewer : For admit them of the same Trade or Imployment , a profitable and corresponsible Trade is the more lively and vigorously carried on by many hands ; and suppose them of several Occupations , the circulation of Money from the one to other , helps all in general . Though 't is true , that in a straggling Town or City , whose parts lye disjoyn'd and far asunder ; the people however considerable in number , cannot be so assistant to each other in mutual Aid , Society or Commerce , as in a regular and well compacted City : So likewise in a Kingdom , that Prince who hath never so large an Empire , yet if thinly Peopled , or divided into several parts remotely distant , and interrupted from mutual intercourse by long Voyages of Land and Sea , cannot be look'd upon as so powerful a Prince , as he that hath the like number of People in one intire and united Dominion . Certainly no Monarch of the World , much less of Christendom , ( whoever he be that hath added most to his Empire by never so many new made Conquests ) can pretend to so large a share or portion of the Earth , as the King of Spain , who nevertheless ( as the transactions of a few late past years have made appear , ) hath born but his fourth part with other Princes and States , in opposition to a Prince far inferior to him in Jurisdiction ; and what should be the reason of this , but that his Dominions lye so remote from each other , and his Kingdom of Spain , which his Residence there chiefly enables , is the least Peopled of all the rest , and his Viceroys of Peru and Mexico ( the possession whereof hath been main occasion of Impoverishing Spain of its people ) are in effect , setting aside the Title , as great Kings as himself ; nor much less are those of Naples , Sicily , Millain , and what remains of Flanders , so that he seems in reality King of Spain alone , and of the rest of his Dominions , but in Title only : And to come a little nearer the matter , if all the Kings Subjects in New-England , Virginia , Maryland , &c. were planted in those unpeopled Regions of this Island ( their Native Soyl ) which are more than large enough to receive them , there is no doubt to be made , but that they would be more capable of serving their King , than they can possibly be at such a distance , thus transplanted to the other end of the World : To be short , no Rational man will deny , but that that Prince , who from a Territory no larger than the County of Kent , is able to bring 100000 men into the field , is no less Potent than he who from a Territory 20 times as large is able to raise a not much greater number ; and so much the more , by how much he levies them with less Trouble and Charge . That Soveraign Conquers best , who wins the hearts of his people by Moderation , Justice , good Government , and wholsome Laws . He best plants Colonies , who maintains a flourishing Trade to Forraign parts ; he best inlarges his Territory , who husbands his People to the best advantage , and consults best for their Preservation and Increase ; hereby approving himself all this while a true Christian Prince , not in Name only , but in reality no less ; and upon this score , let the World judge , whether our Defensor Fidei have not a just Title to that of Christianissimus also . When as for any Potentate or Grandee of the World , Pontifical or otherwise , to grasp at Power and Empire by War , Bloodshed and Rapine , though under never so spacious a pretence , even propogating the Faith it self , and at the same time to take upon him the Name of Christian , must needs be the highest affront to Heaven , and shame to Religion imaginable . The Stile of Christian Cut-throat , ( for that must necessarily follow ) implying a cnntradiction not to be reconcil'd by all the art of Sopistry and Jesuitism ; since he that hath but heard of the Christian Religion , cannot be ignorant that Peace and Charity are the very root and foundation of Christianity , and that Religion under what Title soever , which is otherwise grounded , is to be abhorr'd by all sober men . The Creator said to the Earth at the beginning , Increase and be Replenish'd : The Destroyer hath been saying to the same Earth from the beginning , from Age to Age ; be ruin'd , laid wast and Dispeopled by humane Slaughter . Now how far the parallel will hold between the greater , and Man the lesser World , as to the necessity of Purging and Bleeding ; and whether it be so wholsom , as some would have us think , that the superfluous blood of the World should be let out by the Phlebotomy of War , we shall wave the inquiry at this present ; only I am of opinion , that it would be better to leave the Physicking of the World to the great Physitian thereof , than that man upon man should so often practice his Fatal Chyrurgery . There is sufficient reason to believe that those frequent Inundations of People , those numerous swarms of Cimbrians , Teutones , Longobards , Huns , Goths and Vandals , which Scythia in former times pour'd out into the milder Regions of Europe , were not so much the Luxuriance and off-scouring of an over-peopled Nation , ( since not any one denomination of Country besides , takes up so large a part of the earth , or hath so many vast unhabited Vacancies ) but a kind of agreement among certain numbers of men to carve themselves out better Commons than their own Country afforded ; and throw off the Scythian Frost and roughness , by the Warm Sun-shine of Gallia , Spain and Italy . Now to come closer to the design of our Discourse : Three things are to be considered . First , Whether this Nation have not been in former Ages more Populous than at present . Next , what the occasion of this Dispopulation hath been . Lastly , The means of restoration to pristine Populacy , or at least of Replenishment in some degree . The first consideration is answered by the second : There is no question to be made , but that the complicated Invasions of Romans , Saxons and Danes ( especially the last so dreadfully Barbarous ) was the Destruction of a World of People , and the Demolishment of many Towns and Cities ; and after the Norman Conquest , the Bloody Civil Wars amongst us ; first of the Barons , next of the two Roses : As for the Norman Invasion it self , it occasion'd indeed no great matter of Devastation , since except a few inconsiderable Insurrections that happen'd afterwards , the business was decided by the dint of one Battle , and happily the Conqueror had not been sorry , had more of the English fallen in that quarrel ; since , like a true Stepfather and Foraign Invader , more than like a Native Father of the Country , he could find in his heart to lay waste 28 Towns and Villages , to make a large habitation for wild Beasts . The last and main consideration , is how to repair this loss of People ; shall we call the English of America back to their Native Soyl ? or shall we invite the Industrious , or the Distressed of other Nations to come over and live among us ? or shall we indeavour to People the Nation better with those People , if I may so call them , we have already ; that is , turn Drones into Bees , and two Legg'd Cattle into Men ? The first I take altogether to be Impracticable and Irrational to go about ; for it would be an endless thing for such multitudes of People to unfix themselves from their setled Imploys and Habitations , and to be put to remove their Effects back to a Country now grown as strange and uncouth to them , as any other Foraign Nation . The second , according to my poor judgment , cannot be disadvantageous to this Kingdom , could it be well compas'd and well manag'd , so as to give no distaste to the present Inhabitants ; for it hath been a general and frequent Complaint , in my hearing , among some Tradesmen of London , that Foraigners ( especially these French Dogs , as they stile them ) come over , settle themselves among us , and eat the Bread out of our Mouths . Nevertheless it is certain , that in many Towns of England , as Canterbury , Norwich , &c. many Families of Foraigners are well setled , exercise the Epidemick Trade of those Places peaceably and prosperously enough , and without envy or disturbance . Hospitality is a certain evidence of a good Nature and Generous Inclination ; and it hath been formerly , and doubtless still is in a great measure , the particular Credit of the English Gentry , to keep Plentiful Houses , on purpose to Entertain Strangers , give Shelter to benighted Travellers , and Succour all persons in Distress : And as among particular persons , no man but an Indigent Wretch , or Ill-natur'd Churl , will deny Relief to a person , that through real and remediless want makes application to him . So likewise among Nations , that People that refuseth the Accomodation of their Country to their supplicant Neighbours , who unjustly Banished their own Native Land , or driven , out by Persecution and Tyranny , fly to them for Refuge , must needs be the Inhabitants of a Beggarly and Unhospitable Soyl , or be themselves a sort of Inhumane and Savage-Bores . Our Kingdom , God be thanked , is sufficiently Fertile ; our Natives not accounted Ill-natured , and for Room we have not only to spare , but within the whole Circuit of England enough , as we have said before , to contain a far greater power of People twice , if not thrice the number : So that an accession of peaceable Strangers can be no injury , may be a considerable benefit to us ; so that in being Charitable to others , we shall be no losers our selves ; and never was there so important and seasonable an occasion offered as now , for the receiving of Foraigners among us ; since never did any persecuted people so want our Entertainmen and Succour , as at this time , these our Protestant Neighbours , who in their own Native Country , and among the Professors of Christianity , are denyed that Protection , which living peaceably , they could not doubt of among the severest of Turks or Ethnicks ; and all this for no other reason , then denying to fall down before the obtruded Idol , as the Israelites were dealt with in the days of the Tyrant Nebuchadnezzar : But by Divine Providence it falls out happily to be at a time that England is govern'd by the most Just and Benevolent of Princes ; who out of his Concernment for the Protestant Religion , and that innate Generosity and Clemency wherewith he delights to oblige all mankind , hath by an Order of Councel of the _____ of September this present year 1681. promised all those that shall come over , such ample Priviledges and Immunities , as will much soften and allay their present Afflictions , and in a great measure compensate for their being forc'd to abandon their Native habitations . The last cannot be reasonably judg'd unfeasible , and is certainly the most absolutely necessary , since those many thousands of Unimployed persons , burthens of the earth , who presume they were only born to Eat and Drink , are no better than so many Ciphers , being perfectly lost to their Country : Nay which is worse , they may justly be reckoned as so many Vermine and Noxious Animals ; for Idleness it self cannot always subsist in its own station , but oftentimes is forc'd upon Action , but 't is the worst part of Action , Mischief . As admit a Nation never so thinly Inhabited , and yet a Million of those Inhabitants prove utterly useless and unprofitable , that Nation may well be said to be too Populous by that Million : Insomuch as Cut-purse , Pick-pocket , House-breaker , Highway-man , and whatever besides can be imagin'd mischievous , are but the several Metamorphoses of an Idle Liver ; and thus Idleness tends to a more fatal kind of Depopulation : The unworking person indeed , who in some sence may be said to be no person , but dead to the service of his Country , yet is capable of being quickned and inspir'd with the life of Action ; but the worker of Iniquity , who is commonly the result of the unworking Person , takes courses which tend to an irrevivable Destruction . The first is but that Malefactor in Posse , which the Thief and Robber is in Esse ; and doubtless were the Potential Maleficence , which is Idleness , severely inquired into , and regulated by the Discipline of Law and Government , so many of the Kings Subjects would not yearly at every Session and Assize , as Essential Malefactors , be made sad Examples of Justice , and cut off from the Land of the Living , to which in this World there is no return . But what hath been said all this while of the unworking Person , ( whom to compel to work , that he may be kept from Starving , and restrain from Stealing , that he may be restrained from the Gallows , is no Injurious , but Charitable part of a Magistrate ) it is to be understood only of those narrow Soul'd Loiterers , who being not worth a Groat in the World , choose rather to go squandring up and down Beg , Filch and be Lowsy , than Honestly to get their Bread by cleanly Industry and wholesome Labour : Whereas for him that hath enough to Live on , who shall hinder him , if he please and have the Conscience , to be Idle and good for nothing at his own Charges : As for those who are great in Money , Lands , or High Offices , great also are their Priviledges ; for the World hath generally a very great favour and respect for such as flourish and are prosperous in it , ( as well as contempt for the Poor and Unfortunate ) and except they shall unfortunately happen to become Envy'd-Favourites , will be apt to have a favourable excuse for whatsoever is either omitted or committed by them . However , there is a real merit that cannot be denyed them , which is , that they have wherewithal to be serviceable to their King and Country : A Rich man , meerly as a Rich man , must needs be acknowledged a useful person in his Generation , especially if his Heart be answerable to his Purse , or however where something is to be had , there is a possibility of obtaining : On the other side , though it be just and rational to give Law to those who will not give Law to themselves , to compel men to their own as well as the publick good , to work that they may not Starve , to do well , that they may not suffer for doing ill . It is not yet so consonant to reason , that any one should be forc'd to performance , though of things never so just , above Ability , or to make satisfactions out of nothing . That the Idle and Industrious alike , to satisfie the rigorous Justice of a Self-loving Creditor , should for being Idle or Unfortunate , be condemned to perpetual Idleness and Misfortune , and for no other cause , than not working Impossibilities , be constrain'd to lie starving and stinking to death in a loathsom Gaol , is a piece of Judiciality . I do not understand , and I verily believe , that it is no less unjust , for any one to be Cruel and Rigorous in the exacting of his Own from him that Hath not , than for him that Hath , to forbear the payment of what he Owes ; who also , if not willing of himself , may and ought to be made so by force and rigour : Which may be inflicted otherwise than by Confinement , for a Prison is least a punishment to those that most deserve it . To conclude , a too rigorous procedure either to Death or Imprisonment , seems an over-acting in Justice , and as it were tending much alike towards a kind of Depopulation ; there being no great difference between not to be at all , and not to be at Liberty ; the first totally , the second after a manner , depriving the World of those whose Lives and Liberties might happily have been usefully enough , spar'd for the Commonwealth . Of the Manufactures of England . MAnufacture is to the Body Politick , what Exercise is to the Body Natural , viz. Prosperity to the one , Health and Soundness to the other ; Ildleness being alike pernicious to both , and causing to both alike Debauchery of Manners , Distemper and Beggary . There are few Nations in Europe , as well a mother parts of the World , wherein some particular Towns are not particularly Eminent for some or other Manufacture , as in Andalusia a Province of Spain , Corduba for the curious Dressing of Leather , which is thence called Cordovan-Leather ; in Biscaia Bilboa for the making of excellent Temper'd Blades , Faenza in Italy for fine Earthen Ware , Venice for that rare sort of Drinking Glasses , which are thence called Venice-Glasses ; which Art of Glass-making , is by a late Discovery from thence , Improv'd to a very great heigth in England , though we cannot bring Glasses to that perfection , for want of those Materials which are only to be had in those , viz. two sorts of Plants called Gazul and Subit , out of whose Liquified Ashes the right Venice-Glasses are blown . The most general Manufacture of England , is that which of all others is certainly the most useful and profitable , and which from Ancient time hath in a measure conduc'd to the Wealth and flourishing Estate of the Nation ; that is to say , the Woollen Manufacture , or the making of Woollen Cloths or Stuffs , which being encourag'd and rightly manag'd , is the chief prop of our Trade and Commerce , and ( till the Fishery be set up , according to the Proposals of several Worthy Persons ) the chief Support and Honest Maintenance of the Poor , whom could there be work enough found out universally to imploy , it would be a happy means to take off that Lewd and Sordid course of Vagabond Begging , which introduces all those Thievish and unlawful practices , that bring so many daily to shameful and untimely ends . The first Broadcloth ( so called , because of the Broad-Looms wherein it was wrought ) made in England , is said to have been wrought by Jack of Newbury , in the Reign of King Edward the Third . The first famous Clothiers were the Webscloths and Clutterbucks in Glocestershire . For this Ingenious and profitable Art or Mystery of Lanifice or Woollen-work , there is no place in England more fam'd than the City of Norwich , which hath for a long time flourish'd by the making of Worsted-Stuffs , which being wrought here more Curiously than elsewhere , are thence called Nerwich-Stuffs ; which Work hath been brought to the greater perfection , by the Industry of several Dutch and French Families , who have been here planted for several years . No Nation ever loseth , but gets by the Transplantation of Industrious Foraigners , who by Interest and Converse , soon become one with the People among whom they Inhabit . The Stuffs here vended ( the chief Trade whereof , as also of Stockings , is to London ) are esteemed at 100000 l. per annum , which Stuffs are under the Government of two Companies , the Worsted Company , and the Russel Company . The Stockings at 60000 l. per annum . But there is another Town in this County , which being called Worsted , seems to have been the first noted place wherein these Stuffs were substantially made , in regard they thence took their denomination . Kidderminster in Worcestershire drives a very Trade in the making of certain Stuffs , which are thence called Kidderminster-Stuffs ; and in the same Shire the City of Worcester it self : And also Malmsbury for Woollen-Cloth . In Warwick-shire , Coventry ; In Lancashire , Manchester is much Enrich'd by the Industry of the Inhabitants , in making Cloth of Linnen and Woollen . Taunton in Somersetshire drives so great a Trade in Mixt and White-Serges , that there are said to be sent up Weekly to London and other places , no less than 700 pieces , a sort of them , besides a sort of course Bays ; in the making whereof , there are Weekly imployed no less than 8500 persons . No less doth Wakefield in the West-riding of York-shire ; Leeds also in the same County is accounted a Wealthy . Town , by reason of its Cloathing . Exeter by the quantity of Serges there made , returns to London a 10000 l. a Week . Stroud in Gloucestershire , is a Town not only full of Rich Clothiers , but is also particularly Eminent for the Dying of Cloths , by reason of the peculiar quality of the Water for that purpose : Teuxbury also in the same County , is very Rich in Clothing : Likewise Sudbury or Southbourg in Suffolk ; Hadly in the same County . Reading in Bark-shire , which through the greatness of its Trade , is a very Wealthy Town ; and Newbury in the same County . So likewise Shirburn in Dorcetshire , upon the same account : And also in Essex , Colchester , Dedham , Coxal , and other places , abound in Bays , Says , and other new Drapery . Appleby in Cumberland is no less Eminent for its strong Castle , and for being the place where the Assizes for the County are held , than for its great Cloth Manufacture ; the like is Kendal in the same County . Among the woollen Manufacture of England , may be reckon'd the weaving and knitting of Stockings , the use of which woven and knit Stockings hath not been in this Nation longer than about the beginning of K. James's Reign : It being very memorable what Dr Fuller relates of one William Rider , an Apprentice at the foot of London-Bridge , over against St Magnes-Church , who seeing in the House of an Italian Merchant a pair of knit worsted Stockings , which he brought from Mantua , and taking special observation of them , made a pair exactly like them , which he presented to William Earl of Pembroke , and they are said to be the first of that sort worn in England , and thence-forward they became more and more in use ; so that for many years they have been very much , and are now altogether worn , and are a great part of the Trade in most Places where there is any thing of woollen Manufacture , especially at Norwich ; yet Jersie Stockings have for a long time had a particular name . The Next Place may properly be allow'd to our making of Bone-lace , which is the chief of the Ornamentals worn in this Nation , though not so totally as before the Needle-works came in fashion , which though brought to great perfection , yet have obtain'd so much the less esteem , by how much those of Flanders , and the Points de Venice in Italy , and Larron in France , came more in fashion , as all foreign Artifices usually ( especially the French ) have ever the chiefest vogue among our Gallants . So general is this Manufacture in many Parts of England , that the Poor of whole Towns are almost totally imploy'd , and in a great measure maintain'd thereby : Particularly , Honiton in Devonshire is a noted Town for his sort of Workmanship ; as likewise Salisbury and Marlborough in Wiltshire , Ouldny in Buckinghamshire , Amersham and Chesham in the same Shire , Blandford in Dorcetshire ; which last Place hath been famous also for making of Band-strings , and now Point-●aces , it is said , are much made there . It is observ'd , that the only Thread made in England , till within a few years , was at Maidstone in Kent . Besides the Cottons of Manchester , the Tickin , Pins , Points and Laces of that Place , have been thought not unworthy to be mention'd by several of England's Topographers ; so likewise the Gloves , Purses and leathern Points of Congleton , a Market Town of Cheshire ; the Pins of Aberford in York-shire . The making of Ropes and Cables for Ships was heretofore not onely especially eminent at Birtport in Dorsetshire above all other places , but also so highly approv'd for the goodness and curiosity of the Workmanship , that a Statute is said to have been made for a time , ordaining that no Ropes or Cables for the King's Ships should be made any where else ; but that Act appears to have been long since out of date , for there are great Rope-yards belonging to all the Ship-docks of England , particularly at Deptford there are very famous and large ones . Smiths-work , whatever it is at present , hath been heretofore peculiarly attributed to the Artists of Salisbury in Wiltshire , Bremicham in Warwickshire , Chedder in Somersetshire , Sheffield in Yorkshire , Malton in the same Shire , and Walsal in Staffordshire ; particularly Salisbury is commended for Razors ; Bremicham and Sheffield for Blades of Knives ; Chedder for Teasels or Instruments used in the dressing of Cloth ; Malton for Instruments used in Husbandry ; and Walsal for Bits and Snaffles for Horses ; moreover this last Town is noted as well for Pewterers as Smiths . But by the way , the mention of Knives hath brought to mind a just occasion of admiration , that is , since the English have been observ'd , and not without just cause , to be a good stout eating People , there being more substantial Joynts of Beef and Mutton , &c. consum'd among us , than perhaps in any part of the World besides , how it should come to pass , that we should be so tardy in the Art of Knife-making ; or what Invention we had in former days , to avoid those Indecencies at the Table , which the want of Knives must in all likelihood be the cause of : For it is credibly reported , that one Thomas Matthews living on Fleet-bridge , was the first that made Knives in England , which was in the 5th year of the Reign of Q. Elizabeth . The best Tobacco-pipes , for neatness of shape and form , and for a curious shining gloss , are made at Ambresbury , vulgarly call'd Emsbury in Wiltshire , about a mile or two from Stonehenge ; they are commonly call'd Gantlet-Pipes ( having the mark of a Gantlet impress'd on the flat bottom of the Bowl ) from Mr. Hugh Gantlet , who was the first that brought them to this perfection . There are also several edible and potable Works of Art , which may in my opinion properly enough come under the Head of English Manufactures . The Coagulation of Milk into the Consistence of Cheese , is said to have been the first Invention of the Osci , an ancient People of Italy ; but whence or from whomsoever proceeding , this sort of artificial Food is the most common and universal , in all Parts of the World where the most rational and civil way of Eating is in use . Of all the Shires of England , Cheshire for this kind of Edible , may , I judge , be allow'd the Bays , above all other Parts , at least of this Kingdom ; and for ought I know , a true Cheshire Cheese , if rightly valu'd , may stand in competition with the Parmesan of Italy , the Angelot of France , and the Full-moon of Holland , only with this pre-eminence reserved to the last , that but for the bigness , it might serve as well for the Bowling-green as the Table . Suffolk in this particular challenges the next place , but doubtless in respect rather of quantity than quality ; for this County furnishes with Cheeses not only several other Parts of England , but also Spain , France and Italy ; a lean Traveller may possibly be thought able to endure a long Journey better than one that 's plump and fat . These are the two principal Cheese-Counties of England ; but in other Counties , this Pretension is fixt to particular Places , as in Somersetshire to Chedder before-mention'd , the Cheeses whereof are of that repute , as to be frequently , preferr'd even before those of Cheshire ; Opinion and Imagination are two great things . In Warwickshire , Banbury hath a Name both for Cheeses and Cakes , the justification of which Name is best left to the experienc'd taster of both . For Sugar'd-Cakes , Shrewsbury is without controversie allow'd to bear away the Bell from all other Places . But to save the Reputation of the Cake-makers of other Parts , this Super-excellence is attributed to the nature of the Severn-water in that Place . Other Places there are that challenge their Peculiars of this nature , but the most proverbially eminent are the Whitepot of Devonshire , and Dumpling of Norfolk . Nor must the Potables of England be altogether forgotten . For Ale , Derbyshire , and particularly Derby-Town ; also Hull , Northdown , and Sandbitch , and Weably afore-mention'd , are most especially fam'd ; for Sider , all Gloucestershire , Worcestershire and Herefordshire ; for Metheglin , Shropshire , Herefordshire , and some Parts of Wales . To the Manufactury of England , may not unfitly be added an account of those curious Arts and Inventions , which are now flourishing in this Nation , whether newly , or for some Ages last past . And among these , the first and principal is the excellent , and by some highly applauded , and by others most condemned , Art of Printting . This noble Invention , in many respects useful , and no way so pernicious as some would have it thought , was first exercis'd by William Caxton Mercer , who in the Reign of K. Edw. the IV. kept his Printing-house in Westminster-Abbey , by the permission of Simon Islip Abbot of Westminster ; and the first Book set forth , some say , was Tully's Offices ; others say , a Book treating of the way of playing the Game at Chess . The next Invention appearing here among us , must be allow'd little less ingenious than the former , but wonderfully more capable of doing mischief , I mean , the truly black Art of Gunpowder , the swarthy Invention of a swarthy Monk , and possibly by the Inspiration of the Prince of Darkness . Yet one thing is worthy to be observ'd , viz. that since the discovery of this gloomy Drug , whatever destruction hath been committed by whole-sale , something of amends hath been made by retail : For whereas in former Times , when the Bow , Lance and Javelin were in use , History makes nothing of 40 or 50000 slain in the Field ; now that the Musket , Dragoon and Pistol came in fashion ( even with the Cannon to boot ) it is a great matter to hear of the fall of 10 or 20000. besides , as a Member sometimes is not ill lost to save a Man , so in greater Bodies , a House may be better spar'd than a whole Street or Town , which deliverance nothing but Gunpowder can effect . But then against this benefit may be oppos'd the springing of Mines , to blow up Castles , Forts and Cittadels , meerly for destructions sake . It is not to be doubted , and it appears from Histories , that the Chariot hath been known in England as well as in other Parts of the World time out of mind ; but the use of those portable Houses call'd Coaches , which at this day being increas'd to a vast multitude , make such a clutter in the Streets of London , to the great disturbance of the poor Foot-Passenger , is said to have first commenc'd about the year 1556. till when , 't is to be presum'd , that great Persons seldom stirr'd out but in fair weather , whereas now all Seasons for Visits are alike ; otherwise the Cavalcade of Princes and Nobles on Horseback , may doubtless afford the Beholder as comely a Spectacle as a long train of Coaches . Together with the Coach , or not long after , I guess , came in the Coaches Epitome , the Sedan , more elegantly styl'd a Chair , a much more easie sort of passage , as perform'd not by draught but carriage , and that by the more rational sort of Animal . But there is another kind of moving Domicil of much later date , call'd a Calesh , which seems like a Coach cut off in the middle , wherein commonly the Driver and the Driven is one and the self-same person . Watches , and other horary Motions of that nature , it is certain , came out of Germany , and according to the best conjecture , somewhat more than a 100 years since . The principal Artists of this kind mention'd are Janus Torrianellus , and Cornelius van Drebble ; but since all kind of automatous Motions by Clock-work have been wonderfully improv'd by those of our own Nation , particularly Mr Davie Mell , besides his excellent judgement and fancy in Musical Compositions , and his great performance on the Violin , above all others of his Time , ( for within these 20 years , the very quintessence of that Instruments Musick hath been extracted , as being chiefly in fashion ) was so prodigious an Artist in all Mechanick Motions by Clock-work , that if any one since hath equall'd him in Art , he hath at least fallen short in Fame . But of all Inventions of this kind , the Pendulum of latest date , is also of greatest curiosity and use , being generally acknowledg'd the Design of Mr Hook , Fellow of the Royal Society , a Person of much Esteem among the Learned and Vertuous , for his Mathematical and Mechanick Improvements , however Mr Oldenburg , late Secretary to the said Society , made some Dispute in this Matter , as asserting it of German Original . All sorts of Optick Glasses and Tubes , as the Telescope , the Invention of the noble Galileo , the Microscope , &c. have been of late years wonderfully improv'd , especially by the Directions of the fore-mention'd Mr Hook , Mr Flamstead , and others of this most renowned Fellowship . But the first famous Artificer of these Tubes and Glasses , was Mr Reeves in Long-acre , after whom Mr Cock hath continued the Imployment with prosperous success and approbation . The Barometer , Thermometer , Hydroscope , and such like Contrivances , for the discovery of the Change of Weather , have certainly been the result of those unwearied Endeavours and Enquiries , that have been made into the depth of Natural Knowledg , since the foundation of this Noble Society . And among the sagacious Enquirers into Meteorological Philosophy , Dr Goad , late Master of Merchant-Taylors-School , must be allow'd a principal place . But for the Air-Pump , the rarest Invention ever found out for the proof of a Vacuum in rerum Natura , it particularly owns the Honourable Robert Boil its Inventor , who by his many Writings and Inventions , hath been a Worthy Contributor to the Advancement of Experimental Philosophy . The Art of Torning , as it appears to have been not much less ancient in the World than Sculpture it self , so doubtless it is not very Modern in this Nation . But that curious Improvement of Torning , call'd the Rose-work , doubtless claims here but an Ages Antiquity . The first celebrated Person for Work of this nature , was Mr Reeve , the Brother of the above-mention'd Artist in Optick Glasses . And though this sort of Work hath since been very frequent among us , yet I cannot omit the mention of a Person , who from his own natural Fancy and Ingenuity , hath arriv'd to that perfection , as well in this as all manner of Torning else , that he is judg'd by knowing Persons not to be exceeded , if equall'd , by any that have been bred up to the Art , Mr John Gearie , living in St Anns-Lane in Westminster . Our Sculpture in Stone appears plainly not to be of Modern Invention or Discovery in this Nation , by the delicate Workmanship in several of our Cathedrals and other Churches , and in the Schools at Oxford ; and at this present time it is not any way diminish'd , but rather improv'd by the Art and Industry of several eminent Men , Mr Pierce , Mr Latham , Mr Pennel , &c. But for Carving in Wood , never was any thing in England seen more curious and exquisite , than the Workmanship of Mr Gibbons , his Majesty's Carver , and a great Contributer to the Ornaments of the Royal Palace at Windsor . Graving in Copper seems not to have been brought to any perfection in England till this present Age. The first Person very eminent among us in this Art was Mr William Faithorn , now living in Black-friers ; and since there have sprung up several other ingenuous Artists in this kind , viz. Mr Loggan , Mr White , Mr Sherwin , and others . The best for Etching , not only in England , but perhaps in any other Parts , was Mr Wenceslaus Hollar , who died here not many years since . But that rough sort of Graving , or rather pecking upon Copper , call'd Mezzo Tinto , hath been us'd but lately , being either the Design or Encouragement of his late Highness Prince Rupert . There is also a peculiar Art in the graving of written Letters from the Copies of the most exact writing-Masters . The first eminent in this way was Mr Cocker , who was also himself a writing-Master , to whom , others that have succeeded , have not been inferiour ; as Mr Sturt , who grav'd the Copies of Mr Aires ; and Mr Elder , who grav'd an ingenious Piece , entituled , Brachyarithmia , of Mr Edw. Noon , Teacher of Writing and Accounts , at the Hand and Pen in Maiden-lane in Covent-Garden . For Graving in Steel , never was any Man so famous in England as Mr Thomas Rawlins , last Graver of the Mint both to his late and to his present Majesty ; the grand Excellency of whose Art was , his graving the Effigies of any one , true and exact upon a small Letter-Seal . As for Painting , our Nation can boast nothing like the Works of the great Sir Anthony Vandike , who though born a Foreigner , died an Englishman . Nor hath he wanted several famous Successors ; as Dobson , Fuller , Walker , Lillie , Greenhill , &c. The first Person famous among us for Painting in Miniature , was Mr Oliver ; after whom , Francis Clein and his Brother John had been the Prodigies of the Age , had they lived . Mr Cooper's loss comes next to be lamented ; the Persons living are Mr Gibson , Mr. Flattman , &c. For Crayons or dry Colours , Mr. Ashfield , lately deceas'd . Scene-Paintings and Machines have not been known in England till within these 20 years ; and the only eminent Men in this kind have been Mr. Streeter , and Mr. Stevenson , some years since deceased . In Musick , it would be too tedious to determine , whether the Improvement or Alteration hath been greater . Certain it is , that several old English Instruments are laid aside ; as the Orpharian , the Polyphone , an Instrument surely not to be despis'd , considering its rare Structure , and the Esteem had of it by learned and therefore most judiciously Musical Persons of this Age , viz. Sir Francis Prujean , and Dr. Rugely . The Stump , whereon about , an Age ago Andrew Mark was famous for his rare performance . The Bandore , the Ghittern , Cittern , &c. The treble Viol also is much out of doors , since the Violin came so much in request . The Base and Lyra Viol , in the making whereof , Wroth was without dispute the best Workman that ever wrought , keep pretty well in repute , especially the first , in regard it cannot well be wanted in Consort . Nor did ever any Age produce such wonderful Performers upon this Instrument as this present Age ; particularly , Pol-wheel , Theodore Stephkins deceas'd , his Son Frederick , Mr. Young , Sir John Bolls of Scampton in Lincolnshire , Mr. Roger l'Estrange , Mr. Smith , Mr. Gregory , &c. The Lute is not wholly laid aside , but within these 20 or 30 years much neglected to what it was formerly , notwithstanding the great Improvement of this Instrument among us within a 100 years , by reason of the diversity of Tunings receiv'd from France , some of whose best Lute-Masters brought over not only these Harp-tunings , but themselves also , and by their active Hands and airy Fancies , oblig'd the Musick-lovers of our Nation with transcendant Harmony , viz. Goutier , Penel , Merceur , Mesanges , Du Faulx , &c. after whom of our own Nation came Mr. Goutier's Scholar , Captain Hill , Dr. No , Mr. John Hubbard , and Mr. John Wootton now living . And no less famous in their kind , that is , for Workmanship , were old Allaby , and Walter Johnson . But the fine easie Ghittar , whose performance is soon gain'd , at least after the brushing way , hath at this present over-topt the nobler Lute . Nor is it to be denied , but that after the pinching way , some good Work may be made of the Ghittar by such as Sir Francesco Corbetto , Mr. Janvier , Signor Pedro , Mr. Wootton aforemention'd , and the like . Nevertheless the Theorbo , which is no other than an Arch-Lute , keeping to the old Tuning , is still generally made use of in Consorts . And there are yet among the judicious , who think it the most agreeable and becoming Associate to vocal Musick , remembring how nobly it sounded in the Hands of Dr. Wilson , Mr. Henry Ferabosco , Mr. Edward Coleman , Mr. Alphonso Marsh lately deceased , &c. Play'd on alone , never did it speak such harmonious things in our English Climate , as when touch'd by the famous Dr. Walgrave , Physician at present to his Royal Highness , to whom Mr. Shadwell comes nearest for an excellent Hand . For Consort , our chief Theorbo-men at this day are Mr. Brockwell , and Mr. Flower . The Organ cannot well be laid aside , as being an Instrument of highest perfection , and the most proper of all others for Cathedral Service . What Antiquity it challenges in our Nation is uncertain ; but as no Nation can boast of greater Masters than old Bull , Tomkins , Jeffreys , Dr. Gibbons , Dr. Child , Mr. Matthew Lock , and at present Dr. Bleau , Organist to his Majesty , Mr. Henry , Pursel , Organist to the Abbey , Mr. Michael Wise , Mr. Francis Forcer , &c. so it hath been wonderfully advanc'd of late years , by the addition of several melodious Stops , the greatest Artist at present , not to mention Pease , Burral , and others of late years , being Mr. Smith , living in the So-ho . The Harpsicon is of late wonderfully improv'd by the Invention of the Pedal , which brings it so much nearer to the Organ , that it only seems to come short of it in Lungs . The greatest Master on it now living in our Region , especially since the decease of Mr. Thatcher , is Mr. Disnier , and the greatest Fabricator Mr. Howard . And here also may not unfitly be mention'd , that pretty Fancy of a Musical Automaton , being a kind of Harpsicon , which by a Clock-work-motion discharcheth a certain set number of Tunes , according as it is wound up to this or that Tune . Of this sort of Automata , there is to be seen a very neat piece of Art of Reed-work , at a House at St Mary-overs-Dock ; the Artificer thereof , Mr. Thomas Hill of Westminster , being a Person of remarkable Ingenuity , as well Musical in respect of his performance , as Mechanical for making of several other Instruments . His Pitch-Pipe , for the tuning of Musical Instruments to consort ; Pitch is particularly worthy note for exactness , variety and curious Work , above any thing that is to be seen elsewhere of this nature . The Harp is rather increas'd than diminish'd in repute ; and though the Welsh Gut-string formerly gave place to the Irish , Wire-string , by reason of the masterly Hands of Mr. John Cob , and Mr. Lewis Williams , now the Spanish Gut-string comes up with it , through the excellent Mastery of Mr. Maurice , Mr. Evans , Mr. Bedhurst , Mr. Webster , Mr. Robert Grant , living with my Lord Mountague , and for the Outlandish way of Playing , Mr. Arn. The Violin is now of all others generally of highest esteem , and is indeed a very useful Instrument in Consort , and now arriv'd to that perfection of performance , that it were endless to enumerate all that have been of late accounted great Violin-Masters . Wherefore let the mention of Farmer , Twiss , Ailworth , Ayrs , Claiton , Tomlins , serve for all . The best Workmen for the making of this Instrument have been accounted Comer , Raimund , Florence Barnet . Of Wind-Instruments , the Flageolet within this 20 years , and since that the Flute , have been highest in vogue and frequentest in use : The chiefest Performers on it being Mr. Banister , Mr. Sutton , Mr. Young , Mr. Car , the chiefest Artisans , Mr. Scottny in Lincolns-Inn-fields . But for all sorts of Musical Instruments in general , the Violin , the Base and Lyra Viol , the Harp , the Ghittar , the Lute , ( even the Flageolet and Flute not altogether excepted ) Mr. John Shaw , living near the May-pole in the Strand , is acknowledg'd by the most skilful in Musick of all sorts , to be a Workman in a great measure superiour to any that have been in this Nation . Nor have the Cremona Violins or Loxmollar Lutes been lately of such excessive prices as formerly . For Pegs for Lutes , Viols , &c. Mr. Bland is reported the only Man at present that serves all the Instrument-makers in Town . It is not very many years since the several sorts of fine Varnish have come into knowledge and use among us , which give so beautiful a gloss to Musical Instruments , Cabinets , Tables , Picture-frames , and the like ; so that many of our varnish'd Cabinets may vye even with those of Japan and China themselves , their ways of Varnish being now not altogether unknown unto us , whereof the rarest of all is accounted that of Ceo. The first Persons eminent for Varnishing were Mr. Lilly , and Mr. Racket , since whom it is grown very common . But that noble Lacka-varnish which imitates the Gold-colour , and hath sav'd much cost that was formerly bestow'd in the guilding of Coaches , was brought into England about 30 years since , by the learned Advancer of Learning and all Noble Arts , and my best of Friends , Mr. Evelin , of Says-Court by Deptford . The Bow-dy about 40 years since was brought into England by Kephler . Our Tapistry-work , now equal to whatever the Attalick-Court could anciently boast , was brought in hither by Sir Francis Crane , towards the latter end of K. James his Reign , by the Encouragement of that learned Prince , who gave 2000 l. toward the building of a House at Moreclack , where Mr. Francis Clein was the first Designer . Our Vasa Fictilia , or Potters-Ware , by the Art and Industry of Mr. Doight at Fullam , are brought to that height of Curiosity , that our common Vessels may easily out-vye the Dutch , and the finest ▪ come not much short of China it self . The making of Glasses is said to have been begun in England , anno 1557. about which time there liv'd at Chiddingsfold , a Person very famous for this Art , which as it grew improv'd , the finer sort were first made at Crotchet-friers ; but the making of the Flint-Glass , which is the finest and clearest ever made here , and very near , if not altogether equal to those of Venice , was first begun by Mr. Bishop , and since carried on with good success by Mr. Ravenscroft . There is now a Company of 12 Men of the Potters Trade , who are Directors of this sort of Workmanship , chiefly exercis'd at present at the Savoy-House in the Strand . But the first Glass-plates for Looking-glasses , Coach-windows , &c. in England , were made at Lambeth , now about 10 years since , by the Encouragement of his Grace the Duke of Buckingham , and the Direction of Mr. Reeves afore-mention'd . The first in England who cast brass Guns , viz. Cannons , Culverines , &c. is said to have been one John Oaven ; after him Peter Band a Frenchman , in the first year of the Reign of K. Edw. the VI. cast iron Falcons , Falconets , Minions , &c. but was exceeded by his Servant Thomas Johnson , who liv'd till the year 1600. In Gunsmiths-work there hath been of late years discover'd a very large increase of Art and Ingenuity , as to the Locks and Barrels of Muskets , Carbines , Pistols , and the like . In which sort of Artifice there have been many excellent Workmen ; whereof at this day , Mr. Shaw , and Giffard , Gunsmiths to his Majesty , and Mr. Sharp , living in Exeter-street , are esteem'd the chiefest Artists of London , and by consequence , in all probability , of England . Another principal branch of Smiths-work , is the making of Locks and Keys , in which nothing , was ever seen so curious and ingenuous , as what is done at this day by Mr. Wilkins . Mathematical Instruments , as Compasses , Quadrants , Rulers , are most certainly now more exquisitely made than ever . Herein Mr. Foster in Hosier-lane , and Mr. Hays in Moor-fields , were lately the most celebrated Workmen ; now Mr. Markham in the Strand , and Mr. Winne in Chancery-lane . The Projection of Globes , Spheres and Maps , is without controversie now more exactly understood than formerly , through the Ingenuity first of Mr. Moxon , now of Mr. Berry near Charing-Cross , and Mr. Mordant in Cornhil . Nor is there without all doubt in all things of this nature , a better Graver than Mr. Lamb. And here may not unfitly be mention'd the new Invention of an Iron Pen , which besides its lastingness , is equally fit for use with the best Goose-Quill whatsoever : By Mr. Smith , Writing-Master to Christ-Church-Hospital . Having spoken of Printing , it will not be unseasonable to intimate how much Letter-founding hath been advanc'd of late . S. Savil's silver Character for the printing of his Chrysostom , was much admir'd at that time ; but of late we have had many Books printed in very delicate Characters , both small and great , especially the fine small Greek Character , in which several Greek Poets have been printed at the Theatre at Oxford , is so curious , that nothing can be more , not excepting the fine small Prints of Amsterdam or Leyden . It would be endless to reckon up all the new Allamodes of Cloths , Stuffs , Silks , Ribbands , and the like . But of the many curious Pieces in Wax-work , Straw-work , Acupiction in Silks and Sattins , cutting of Paper , Cloth , or fine Leather , into exquisite Figures , folding of Napkins into the shapes of Birds , Beasts , or Fishes , tho Ingenuity of former Ages ( as to most of these Artifices ) hath perhaps not receiv'd much addition . Though in Wax there are to be seen very curious things of late Workmanship , which possibly have arriv'd to utmost Improvement : For Imbossment in Wax , Mr. Houseman was certainly the best Artist that hath been known in these Parts . The rich Embroidery of former Times , as will appear to those , who visiting the Houses of the old Nobility and Gentry , behold the pompous Furniture left by the Ancestry of those Families , is , as I conjecture , not easily out-done , if equall'd , by any thing this Age can produce . The Art of making fine white Thread , is said to have been brought into England about the year 1670. by Mr. Joseph Allen , Citizen and Merchant-Taylor of London , keeping a Thread-shop in Bishopgate-street , at the Golden Anchor near Bethlehem , even to the value of 3 l. the pound , and vying with the Nuns Thread of Flanders . The Glassen Bee-hive is mention'd by my Ingenious Friend Mr. John Worlidge of Petersfield , to have been the Contrivance of Mr. William Mew , Minister of Easlington in Gloucestershire . He also mentions a wooden Hive of an Octangle form , with a glass Window in one of the sides . This glassen Bee-hive , I remember , about 30 years ago , was much talk'd of as a great Rarity , when the late Bishop of Chester , Dr. Wilkins , had of them in his Garden at Wadham-Colledg , whereof he was then Warden ; both sorts are now sufficiently common , but they are no where to be seen better order'd and more curious than at Mr. Evelin's Paradice of a Garden by Deptford . The Plow , though as ancient as Tillage it self ; the Improvements are but of late years : The chief whereof mention'd by Mr. Blith and Mr. Worlidge , are the single wheel'd Plow and the double wheel'd Plow , and the double Plow , which is in the nature of two Plows joyn'd together . Mr. John Houghton also ( worthily for his great Ingenuity and Industry ) a Fellow of the Royal Society , in that most useful Design of his , call'd , A Collection of Letters for the Improvement of Husbandry , inserts an Invention of Thomas Llewellin , at the George in Cateaten-street , for plowing with one Man and two Horses or Oxen , a greater quantity of Land than can be perform'd at the same time with double the number of Men and Cattel . He also in the same Sheet gives a large description of a Malt-kill at Nottingham . Engines of grand bulk , force and performance , are doubtless near as ancient as whatever Art or Invention have produc'd , being of too great necessity to be unthought of by any thinking or inventing People . Cranes and Engines for the drawing up of Goods of great bulk and weight , such as we have at the Custom-house , and such like Places , are mention'd in ancient Authors . Also in War , the Arcubalistae , and the Arietes or Battering-Rams , which against the Walls of besieged Towns did more than multitudes of Men. What the Antiquity is of Corn Wind-mills , is hard to determine whether in this or any other Nation . The Paper-Mill is certainly of no modern Invention , and it may be wonder'd that in all this time Paper-making hath not been brought to a greater height in this Nation , it being judg'd very possible , that as good Paper might be made in England , as any is brought over from France , Holland , or any other foreign Part. The Powder-Mill cannot be of very long standing , since it is scarce 200 years that Gunpowder it self hath bounc'd and made a smoak in the World. Moreover , of these grand performing Engines , there is a very great number even of late Invention , of which I shall endeavour to call to mind at least the most noted . For the grubbing up of Stumps of Oak , there is an Engine call'd the German Devil , which Mr. Evelin in his incomparable Treatise of Forest-trees , affirms to have been made use of by a Noble Person of this Nation with that success , that by the help thereof one Man was able to do more than could otherwise have been done by 12 Oxen . He also in the same Treatise , p. 22. gives a description of another Engine for the transplanting of Trees . The silk-Stocking Frame is surely one of the most curious Contrivances of this Age. It is said to have been first us'd at Nottingham , and was , as I have been told , the seasonable Fancy of a poor Oxford Scholar , who to inch out the slender pittance of a small Living he had thereabouts , was glad to make use of his Wives manual Assistance ; but that not sufficing neither to satisfie the importunate Stomachs of an increasing Family , he prompted by Necessity , which is the Mother of Art , as ancient Authors affirm , joyn'd his Head to her Hands , his Ingenuity to her Industry , and thence brought forth this rare Device , to shorten the labour , and increase the profit of her Work. The Saw-Mill or Engine for sawing of Timber is of Dutch Original , and about 25 or 30 years ago first brought in use among us , for so long it is since that on the Thames over against Durham-yard was first erected . The Wire-Mill of Mr. Mumma , a Dutchman , was first set up at Sheen within these 20 years . All the Money coin'd in the Tower of London , almost ever since his Majesty's Restoration , hath been by an Engine or Coining-Mill , brought in by the Rotiers , who thereupon became and so continue to this present , his Majesty's chief Moneyers . The Weavers Loom-Engine hath not been in use many years in England , especially the highest Improvement thereof call'd the Dutch Loom , brought in about 5 or 6 years since by Mr. Crouch , a Weaver in Bishopsgate-street . A very useful Invention was that Engine call'd the Persian Wheel , for the watring of Meadows , which lye uncapably of being overflow'd . The first of these Engines brought to any considerable perfection , was erected at the end of Wilton-Garden , by the Direction of the above-mention'd Mr. Worlidge , Wood-Steward to the Earl of Pembroke , in the year 1665. who in his Systema Agriculturae , takes notice of another Engine to the same purpose , call'd the Horizontal Windmil . And in his Treatise of Sider , he describes the Ingenio or rare Sider-Engine , a Contrivance doubtless very profitable for those that drive a Trade in the making of this Liquor . There is also very lately found out the admirable Water-Engine , for raising of Ballas and towing of Ships . Yet as excellent as these Inventions are , and as useful to the Publick , by dispatching at one instant the tedious drudgery of many Hands , yet there are not wanting high Clamours against them , as robbing poor men of their Imployments , and consequently of their Livelihoods ; so hard it is to find any Convenience totally exempted from Cavil and Exception . Even the Quench-fire Engine , that most excellent and salutiferous Invention of Sir Samuel Moreland , 't is possible may be an Eye-sore to such Neronian Tempers , as love to see Towns and Cities on fire . However the World is oblig'd to this learned Mechanick , as well for this as several other useful and ingenuous Contrivances , particularly his Arithmetical Instrument , and his Stenterophonick or Speaking Trumpet , the chief use whereof is to treat or parly with an Enemy at a distance . There is to be seen by all Lovers of Art , a rare Invention of Mr. Edgebury , call'd the Horizontal Corn-mill , upon a piece of Land at Deptford , belonging to my most Honour'd Friend Mr. Evelin junior . It is now about 7 or 8 years , since a Printing-Press for the printing of Callcoes , was set on foot by Mr. Mellish ; but he soon desisting , the Design was taken up by Mr. William Sherwin , living in Little-Britain , and ever since carried on with great vigour and success . To conclude : There remains yet to be spoken of one rare Engine , and in some sence above all that have been yet mention'd , since it brings back Old Age to Youth , and makes threescore and ten appear as fine and gay as five and twenty . I do not mean simply the Perruke , or Frame of Artificial formerly worn , for that may possibly be as ancient as the Emperour Carolus Calvus his Time , who wanting Hair of his own , is reported to have call'd a Councel of French Barbers , to contrive an artificial Supplement of Natures Defect : But I mean , that lofty towring Structure or Machine of Hair , so heighten'd and ornamented , as it hath been by Tonsorian Art and Industry , within these last 20 years , so frounc'd , so curl'd in a 1000 amorous Annulets , so plump'd up , so streaming in the Air like a Ships Top-gallant , that certainly never any Cincinnatus or Capillatus whatsoever , could boast a natural Head of Hair comparable to this artificial ; much more may it be judg'd easily to outvye the ancient Median Cidaris , the Persian Tiara , or the now Ottoman Turbant ; and doubtless had it been devis'd in Homer's Time , it would quickly have put out of countenance the best of his 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . THE MAGNIFICENCE OF ENGLAND . THE Magnificence of England consists in the principal Towns and Cities , Palaces Royal , and belonging ▪ to several of the Nobility , Cathedrals , and other Churches , Castles , Bridges , and erected Monuments . The 3 principal Cities of England are London , York and Bristol . Besides which , there are many other Cities and Towns of sufficient Note for pleasantness of Situation and neatness of Building : As the Cities of Canterbury , Rochester , Exeter , Salisbury , Gloucester , Worcester , Oxford , Bath , Durham , Lincoln , Winchester and Coventry . The Towns of Ipswich , St Edmundbury , Maidston , Feversham , Kingston upon Thames , Guilford , Lewis , Colchester , Buckingham , Ailsbury , Reading , Cambridge , Southampton , Marlborough , Warwick , Shirburn , Northampton , Leicester , Nottingham , Newark , Manchester , Wakefield , Boston , Stamford , Barstable , Tavistoke , Taunton , Shrewsbury , Bridgenorth , Tewksbury and Cirencester ; besides several others which are to be mention'd among those Places signaliz'd by their several Remarks and Transactions . London being at large describ'd by Stow , Howel , and others , it will be sufficient to name the Magnificences thereof , viz. The Cathedral of St Pauls , destroy'd by the late Fire , and now upon rebuilding ; the stately Bridge over the Thames ; the Royal Exchange , splendid before , but now rebuilt far more splendid ; the New Bethlehem , or Bedlam in Gresham-Colledge ; Sion-Colledge ; the Colledge of Physicians , now a very graceful Edifice ; with the Theatre for Anatomy-Lectures , at the upper end of Warwick-lane ; the Halls belonging to the several Companies , most of them built much more to advantage than formerly ; Doctors Commons ; and over against it , the Office of Armory , towards Pauls-Wharf , near which , before the Fire , stood Baynards-Castle , an ancient and noble House , sometime belonging to the Earls of Pembroke ; the several Inns of Court and Chancery , many of them wonderfully improv'd both as to Structure and pleasant Permenades ; the two Inns of Serjeants in Chancery-lane and Fleetstreet , the latter whereof is amplifi'd into a larger extent of Ground , and number of fair Houses ; the Canal by the Fleet , cut straight along from Holborn-bridge down to the Thames at Puddle-Wharf , with the new built Bridge over it ; the Hospitals of Sutton , call'd the Charterhouse ; of Christ-Church near New-gate ; of St Bartholomews near Smithfield ; Bridewel , once a King's Palace , now a House of Correction ; the Earl of Bridgewater's House in Barbican ; the Earl of Thanet's and the Bishop of London's Palace , commonly call'd Peterhouse in Aldersgate-street ; then between Temple-bar and Westminster , a Street so full of Noblemen's Palaces , that there is scarce the like in any one City of Europe , especially some years since , before several of them were pull'd down , out of whose Ruines nevertheless there have sprung up so many little Towns as it were , pleasantly situate upon the Thames-side ; those pull'd down are Essex-house , Exeter-house , out of part whereof there is built a neat Exchange ; part of Salisbury-house , Durham-house , and York-house , belonging to the Duke of Buckingham ; and now very lately Woreester-house ; those standing are Somerset-house , which belongs to the Queen , and where she oft-times hath her residence ; the Savoy , once a Palace , but of late years made use of for an Hospital of lame Souldiers ; Bedford-house , part of Salisbury and Suffolk-house , belonging to the Northumberland Family ; near Westminster is the principal Seat-Royal of England , his Majesty's most usual Place of residence , Whitehal , built by Cardinal Woolfie , a Palace more of Convenience than State , excepting the Banquetting-house , a piece of Architecture , accounted parallel to the best in Italy ; and not to omit the Magnificences of Westminster , being so near ; the Cathedral and the Old Palace , which contains Westminster-hall , the largest Room in Europe , the Parliament-house , and other Courts of Judicature ; from Whitehal a pleasant Park leads to St James's , the Palace and usual residence of his Royal Highness the Duke of York ; on the other side of the Park , a neat House of the Earl of Arlington , Lord Chamberlain of the King's Houshold ; and near it Tarthall , belonging to the late Lord Stafford ; over against St James's , on the Road towards Kensington , a noble House of the Duke of Albemarl , built by the late Lord Chancellor , Earl of Clarendon ; and near it Barkley-house , Newport-house , and others . Among the Buildings of later years , several noble Piazza's or Squares , some not inferior to that of Piazza Navona at Rome . The first Covent-garden Square , grac'd on two sides with lofty Portico's , on the other with the Prospect of Bedford-Garden , on the fourth with the Front of a goodly Church . Next , Lincolns-Inn Square , the largest of all . 3. Bloomsbury Square , opening to a fair Prospect of Southampton-house , not far from which is an elegant new built House of the Honourable Henry Mountague , late Ambassador to the Court of France . 4. Leicester Square , on the one side whereof is the Prospect of Leicester-house , adjoyning to which is also Newport-house . 5. St James's Square , whose each side is a Pile of most splendid Edifices . Lastly , That in So-ho-Buildings , a very pleasant Square , having a large square Garden-plot , in the midst adorn'd with Fountains , Statues , &c. This is commonly call'd Kings-Square , for the Magnificence thereof . York , the first City of Yorkshire , and the second of England , is a large , stately , pleasant , rich , populous and well fortified City . The chief Magnificences whereof , besides several beautiful Structures both publick and private , are the Cathedral , the Great Gate , the Stone-bridge over the Ouse , having one only but very huge Arch , the Princes House , call'd the Mannour , and a famous Library . Bristow or Bristol , qu. Brightstol or Brightstow i. e. a splendid or illustrious Place ; in the British , Caer Oder Nant Badon , i. e. the City Oder in the Valley of Badon ; a large , cleanly , pleasant and well traded City , situate some part in Glocestershire , but most in Somersetshire , and yet in a manner distinct from both , being a County of it self incorporate . It hath large Streets , and divers fair Buildings both publick and private ; besides its Churches , a strong Castle , the Bishop's Palace , the Tolbooth for Merchants , a fair large Key , affording a most pleasant Prospect of Ships , coming up to the very Town , and the Goutes or Sinks that carry the Water under ground , render the Streets exceeding neat and clean . Canterbury , the chief City of Kent , and the Metropolitan See of all England , pleasant both for Situation and Buildings , and of principal esteem for its Cathedral , which is accounted among the chief of the Cathedrals of England ; besides which it hath several fair Chuches . It s other publick Buildings are the Houses of the Dean and Prebends , a noble Free-School , call'd the Kings-School , two Hospitals , the Watch-houses or Cittadels upon the Wall , which is broad enough for two Coaches to go abrest upon it ; it had also a noble Castle , but that hath been long since demolish'd . Rochester is not only preferrable as a City , to all the Places in Kent next to Canterbury , for its fair Building and pleasant Situation upon the River Medway . But the chief Grandure of this City consists in its Cathedral and stately Bridge : Of which more in its due place . Exeter is particularly taken notice of by William of Malmsbury , for the beauty of its Buildings , the richness of its Inhabitants , the flourishing state of its Trade and Commerce , and the confluence of Strangers thither , the greatness of its Trade and Riches , by a daily Commerce both with this City and other Parts of the Nation . The most eminent of its Structures , are the Wall giving entrance by six Gates , and adorn'd with divers Watch-Towers , a strong and stately Castle , and a vary noble and sumptuous Cathedral . Salisbury Cathedral is accounted in some respects the noblest in England , at least there are very few equal to it . The City is pleasantly water'd with clear Rivulets , running through the length of each Street , and the Market-place very large and handsom . Glocester is pleasantly situated upon the River Severn . It hath been anciently much celebrated for its Monastery of Nuns , built by Keneburgh , Eadburgh and Eve , and is at present for its stately Minster . Worcester hath a Wall about it , one thousand six hundred and fifty paces in circuit , with a seven-fold entrance of Gates , and five Watch-Towers , for ornament and security : Nor is its Minster the least considerable among the Cathedrals of England for Structure , besides the Monuments of Antiquity therein , elsewhere mention'd . Bath , besides the Magnificence of its publick Bagno's , is sufficiently recommendable for its private Buildings ; the Streets thereof , when the season of the year renders them least frequented , seem to represent a kind of solemn and majestick Solitude , as may be fancy'd in several of those Towns and Cities of Italy , which consist of splendid Buildings , but thinly inhabited . Durham consists of good handsom old fashion'd Buildings ; but for publick Structures besides its Church , it chiefly boasts the Castle , built there by K. William the Conqueror , which advanceth its Head loftily upon a high Hill. Lincoln is also one of the noblest Cities of England . It hath at this day 15 Parish-Churches besides the Great Church , yet seems it but the Epitome of what it was anciently ; for it is deliver'd to have had no less than 50 Parish-Churches , was wonderful populous and well traded , and hath been adorn'd with many fair and ample Buildings , as well Monasteries as others , as appears by the Ruines , in which something of Magnificence is to be observ'd . Winchester is a City pleasantly situated in a Valley , and walled about with a strong Wall , one thousand eight hundred and eighty paces in circuit , and entred by six Gates ; on the East-side runs the River , and on the West-side stands a strong Castle . It hath seven Parish-Churches , and a good old large Minster , besides the Ruines of certain Monasteries and other publick Buildings ; moreover the Colledge and School may be reckon'd among the Ornaments of this Place , though not standing in the City , but about half a mile out of the Town . Coventry is a City particularly noted by Speed for statelyness of Building , and was encompass'd with a strong and stately Wall , which with the Walls of several other Towns was pull'd down , since his Majesty's Restoration . The Walls had 13 Gates for Entrance , and 18 Towers for Ornament ; but that which was heretofore the greatest Ornament of this City , was that stately Structure of a Cross , which was among the number of those erected to the memory of Queen Elianor , and the most magnificent of all next to that of Cheapfide in London , with which it underwent the same Fate , that is , to be demolish'd by the zealous multitude , the most lewd reformers of Lewdness , and the most superstitious haters of Superstition . Ipswich , besides that it is the Shire-Town of Suffolk , is also generally accounted the principal Town of England , and were it dignified with the title of City , would be equal to many , inferior to few of the Cities of this Nation . It hath 12 Parish-Churches yet standing , besides 6 fall'n to decay , and several fair Streets full of goodly and substantial Buildings , and a very commodious Haven . St Edmondsbury in the same County , excepting what it wants in ampleness of Circuit , comes very near in other respects , especially if we reckon the Grandeur of its once famous Monastery , of which there yet remains something of it very great and stately . But to sum up the Glory of this Place , it will be sufficient to repeat what Speed quotes from Leyland , viz. The Sun hath not seen a City ( so he calls it ) more finely and delicately seated upon an ascent of a Hill , having a River running on the East-side , nor was there ever a more noble Abbey , either for Revenues or incomparable Magnificence , in whose Circuit appeareth rather a City than a Monastery ; so many Gates for Entrance , and some of Brass ; so many Towers , and a most glorious Church , upon which attend three others , standing all in the same Church-yard , all of them passing fine , and of a curious Workmanship . Maidston is pleasantly seated upon the River Medway , and for a meer Town , is reputed the handsomest and most flourishing of all Kent . Feversham is also to be noted , not only for its Antiquities , but likewise for its pleasant and commodious Situation . Kingston upon Thames , so call'd , to distinguish it from the other Kingston upon Hull , stands very pleasantly , and makes a fine Prospect upon the River Thames . It hath a very fair and spacious Market-place , and hath been in former Ages a Place of no mean Repute , ( at least springs from such a one ) as will appear by what we shall have occasion to speak of it elsewhere . Guilford comes here to be mention'd , only as a pleasant and well built Town ; to which may be added , that for the bigness , there is scarce any other Place to compare with it for number of fair and large Inns ; so that this Town and Kingston , ( Southwark being annext to London ) may pass for the two chief Towns of Surry . Lewis is esteemed worthily to stand in competition with the City Chichester it self , for largeness , populousness and fair Building , at least it is far surpassing all the other Towns of Sussex . Colchester , which Speed honours with the title of City , is pleasantly situated upon the River Coln , hath a Wall of 1980 paces in compass , raised upon a high Trench , and enter'd by 6 Gates and 3 Posterns Westward , and being also adorn'd with 9 Watch-Towers , within the circuit of which Walls there are 8 Parish-Churches , besides 2 without ▪ Eastward , an old strong Castle stands upon a strong Trench , and upon another Trench hard by are to be discern'd the Ruines of an ancienter Castle ; and though there are some other noted Towns in this Shire , as Maldon , Chelmsford , &c. yet this Colchester , however no City , may well enough be allow'd to merit the Character it hath , viz. of Shire-Town of Essex . Buckingham is pleasantly seated upon the River Ouse , with which it is altogether surrounded , except on the North-side ; 3 fair Stone-Bridges , giving entrance over the River , and though but a Town , hath the credit to be both the denominating and principal Town of the Shire . Ailesbury , of the same County , is a Town well enough for Building , and the handsomness of its Market-place ; but that which makes it most perspicuous , is , that it stands in the midst of most delightful Meads and Pastures , and the whole Vale , which being one of the pleasantest and fertilest of England , is perhaps one of the pleasantest and fertilest of Europe , is thence denominated the Vale of Ailesbury . Reading , a very ancient Town , and as Leland and others observe , excelling all other Towns in Barkshire , as well for fair Streets and sightly Buildings , as the Wealth of the Townsmen . Cambridge , a Town not despicable for its own proper Buildings , were the Situation as little liable to exception , but borrowing its chief Magnificence from the lustre of those 16 Colledges and Halls , which shine like so many Gems about it , yet far more illustrious by those bright Lamps of Learning , which from this Place have shot their Lights into the World. The most eminent Structure of all the rest in Cambridge is Kings-Colledge-Chappel ; but there is now a Library building in this University , which , it is thought , will be able to compare with any of the best Buildings of this Age ; but notwithstanding all , it is but the chief Town of Cambridgeshire , and not a City , though there be an Episcopal See in the same County . Southampton , a Town , saith Speed , beautiful , rich and populous , and walled about with a strong Wall of square Stone , enter'd by 7 Gates , and adorn'd and fortified with 29 Towers ; within the Walls there are 5 fair Parish-Churches , besides an Hospital called Gods-House ; and without the Walls are to be seen the Ruines of another goodly Church called St Maries . On the West-end of the Town , a well built Castle of a circular form , mounted upon a high Hill so steep , as not to be ascended but by Stairs , gives a fair Prospect both by Land and Sea ; and lastly , Two commodious Keys for Ships , give a great ornament to the Place . This Town , though Winchester predominates as a City , was doubtless , as by the Name appears , the ancient Metropolis of Hantshire , and is still accounted the Shire-Town . Marlborough , one of the most considerable Towns of Wiltshire , which as it is in general a good tolerable well built Town , so it hath one Street above the rest remarkable for its fairness and largeness , being also very much graced with a large neat Forum or Market-place at the upper end thereof . About a dozen years ago there hapned a shrewd Fire , which burnt down a great part of this Street , which being rebuilt to advantage , the Street appears much more stately than before ; and that which gives the greater grace to it , is the Prospect of a fine House of my Lord Seymour's , at the Towns end , which is the more remarkable , by reason of a Mount which is ascended by a Path , which winds round about upward toward the top like a Screw . Warwick is most pleasantly situated upon the ascent of a Hill , taking its rise from the side of a River , whose stream runs pointing toward a stately Castle , the Seat of the famous Guy of Warwick , which having run much to ruine , was repair'd with sumptuous Buildings by Sir Fulk Grevil . There have been 6 fair Churches in this Town , viz. St Lawrence , St Michaels , John Baptist , and John of Jerusalem , St. Maries and St. Nicholas , all gone to ruine but the two last . This City , yet as the denominating and principal Town of Warwickshire , seems of equal repute with Coventry it self . Shirburn , a Town pleasantly seated on the side of a Hill , and very well adorn'd with Structures , especially publick , as Church , Castle , and School-house . Northampton must needs be at this day a very stately Place , for having had the commendation , from the chief of our English Geographers , of being worthy to be rank'd , for Circuit , Beauty and Building , with the most of the Cities of our Land. It was by some unfortunate Accident burnt almost totally down to the ground , and Phaenix-like is risen out of its ashes , much more glorious than before ; and notwithstanding the City of of Peterborough stands within the County , claims to be the County Town of Northamptonshire . Nottingham , saith our most diligent and industrious Speed , is a Town seated most pleasant and delicate upon a high Hill ; for Building stately , and for number of fair Streets surpassing many other Cities , and for a spacious and sumptuous Market-place , and 3 fair Churches , comparing with the best . Many of the Buildings of this Town are hewed out of the Rocks , besides many strange Vaults and Caves ; among which those under the Castle are of especial Note : One for the Story of Christ's Passion , engraven in the Walls , by the Hand of David , the 2d of that Name , King of Scots , whilst he was there kept Prisoner : Another wherein Mortimer was apprehended , in the minority of K. Edw. the 3d , whence it hath ever since born the Name of Mortimer's Hole . These have their several winding Stairs , Windows , Chimnies , and Room above Room , wrought all out of the solid Rock , as other Houses of the Town also have . This Town being the Principal of Nottinghamshire , hath no City to stand in competition with it . Newark , the next Town of Nottinghamshire , both for Reputation and Neatness . It is indeed a Town of a very pleasant Situation upon the River Trent . Manchester , the fairest and pleasantest , though not the principal Town of Lancashire , and above all things else peculiarly remark'd for its grand Church , the Colledge and Market-place . Wakefield , one of the chief Towns of Yorkshire , as well for its pleasantness and goodly Buildings , as its great Market and Cloathing-Trade , and other Remarks : Of which elsewhere . Stamford , the pleasantest Place of Lincolnshire , next to the City of Lincoln it self , being adorn'd with 7 Churches , and an old Hospital . Boston , the best Town of Lincolnshire next to Stamford : Which is all need be said of it at present , in regard there will be occasion to speak more of it in the next Chapter of Towns and Places eminent , &c. Barstable and Tavestoke in Devonshire , are commended above most in the West of England for neatness , well compactedness , and elegance of Structure . Tavestoke is probably enough so call'd , from the River Taw , upon which it stands , and which at Barstable is said to be Navigable for great Vessels , both Places being well inhabited with Merchants , and rich trading People . Next to Bridgewater , of all the Places of Somersetshire , not dignified with the title of City , Taunton is accounted of principal Note , and for pleasantness superior , according to the Testimony of a learned Writer in these words : Taunton qu. Thonton , from the River Thone , is a very fine and proper Town , one of the Eyes of the Shire ; the Country here most delectable on every side with green Meadows , flourishing with pleasant Gardens and Orchards , and replenisht with fair Mannor-Houses , wonderfully contenteth the Eyes of the Beholders . Shrewsbury , as it is the principal Town of Shropshire , there being neither City nor any other Town of Note in that Shire that can stand in competition with it , so it may be reckon'd among the pleasantest of all England , being almost surrounded with the Severn , between which and a stately Wall are most delightful Meadows ; the chief Streets graceful of themselves are set out with several graceful Buildings besides the publick , among which the most remarkable are the two Gate-houses on the Bridges , the Market-place of Free-stone , a strong Castle mounted on a Hill , a neat School-house with a Library , 4 Parish-Churches , and 3 of them very large and goodly , besides the Abbey forehead , without which bears the semblance of an old Cathedral . Besides Shrewsbury , there are many other pleasant Towns in Shropshire , among which , the chiefest in repute are Ludlow and Ludlow's chief State consists in its strong Castle , and its lofty situation upon a high Hill ; and proper enough is the Encomium it hath gain'd of Cambden , that it is a Town more fair than ancient . Bridgnorth also is proudly advanc'd a great part of it upon a Rock , out of which the chief Avenues to that upper part are cut ; moreover , the Castle , the Wall , and the Severn's Inclosure , give addition of State as well as Strength . Tewksbury in Glocestershire , is a Town that might well enough be insisted on for its elegancy of Building and pleasant Situation , but that other special Remarks require the mention of it elsewhere . The like may be said of Cirencester , which hath yet some Ruines left of that Beauty and Magnificence which it receiv'd from the Romans , of whom it was anciently one of the principal Residences . The Palaces Royal of England are in the first place Whitehal , built by Cardinal Woolfie , and from K. Henry the 8th to his present Majesty , the principal and Imperial Residence of all our Kings . This Palace is in general rather to be commended for its large Capacity and Convenience , than for State and outward Shew ; yet that part which is call'd the Banquetting-house , for its sumptuous Appearance and Regularity of Architecture , is judg'd by most of the Curious , fit to stand in competition with the chief Structures of Europe . Next , St James's , a House somewhat more sightly to view , and delicately situated in the most pleasant of Parks ; it hath been usually the Residence of the Princes of Wales , but is now of his Royal Highness , the same in Effect , though not in Title . Somerset-house is the usual Residence of the Queens of England , as it is now of her present Majesty . Hampton-Court in Middlesex , hath been of late the Principal of our King's Residences out of London , a brave , large , Noble House , in the midst of a most stately Park . But at present Windsor-Castle in Barkshire , is his Majesty's chosen Place of Pleasure and Retirement , being besides its most delightful Situation , as being advanc'd upon a high Hill , rising with a gradual ascent , which affords the sweetest Prospect imaginable , a Place of great Magnificence , and now improv'd to a wonderful heighth of State and Beauty . Other Places of Note for Royal Seats are Richmond or Sheen , Nonsuch in Surry , Greenwich and Eltham in Kent , Enfield and Hanworth in Middlesex , Holdenby in Northamptenshire . The Noblemens Palaces we shall have occasion to give a full account of , in the Catalogue of the English Nobility . The Cathedrals of England are perhaps , take them one with another , as remarkable as those of any Country whatsoever ; but the most eminent ( besides St Pauls ) are those of Westminster , Salisbury , Canterbury , York , Worcester , Glocester , Chichester , Norwich , Winchester , Exeter , Wells , and Peterborough . Most of which have been already touch'd upon , in the several Places to which they belong ; however it will not be improper to speak a little more particularly of them in this Place . St Pauls , before its last fatal destruction by Fire , had nothing to stand in competition but St Peters of Rome ; what it will be when rebuilt , may be in some measure conjectur'd , by the Grandure which already appears . Westminster-Abbey is a Noble Piece of Work , and is said to have been 50 years in building , and it receives a great addition of lustre , by the addition of K. Henry the 7th's Chappel , the Workmanship whereof for curiosity of Carving is hardly to be parallel'd . Salisbury-Minster is fam'd in general for one of the stateliest of English Structures , and particularly noted for its high spired Steeple , its double cross Isles , its Windows answering to the Days , its Pillars to the Hours , and its Gates to the Months of the Year , besides a Cloister belonging to it , famous for Largeness and fine Workmanship . Canterbury-Cathedral hath been famous for its rich Window , and the Tomb of Thomas a Becket . That of York seems next of Note and Esteem , for an ample and stately Fabrick . Worcester-Cathedral is by a learned Writer deservedly entitled , a passing fair Building , adorn'd with many Princely and Noble Monuments . Nor is Glocester-Cathedral accounted inferior , besides the Fame of its Whispering Place . Also that of Litchfield , before its demolishment , is said for elegant and proportional Building to have yielded very few . The Church of Chichester is not so large as neat , having a Spire-Steeple , which advanceth it self up to a majestick heighth ▪ The Cloister of the Cathedral of Norwich , is accounted the fairest in England . Winchester-Cathedral is a brave old solemn Structure ; so likewise is that of Lincoln ; which last is also famous for its great Bell call'd Tom of Lincoln , the biggest in England . Exeter-Cathedral is remarkable for its brave , noble , carv'd Work , at the West-end thereof ; so likewise are those of Wells and Peterborough . In fine , There are few or none of the Cathedrals of this Nation , of whose Grandeur there is not enough to be said to make a Volume . There are a number of Parish-Churches that deserve particular mention . In London there are many , especially since the rebuilding of the City , remarkable for Beauty and State. But the chief are St Sepulchre , and St Maries le Bow , whose Steeple is such , that certainly a nobler is scarce to be seen . The Church of Covent-Garden is much admir'd , for a Fabrick of such Magnitude and State , unsupported with Pillars . The like may be said of Lincolns-Inn-Chappel , which is also observable for the curious vaulted Walk over which it is built . Likewise that round vaulted Roof of the Inner-Temple-Church , under which lye upon the ground several Sepulchral Statues of Knights , Templars , within a four-square Empalement of Iron-work , is a Structure of that kind not to be parallel'd by any . Nor is the new built Church of St Clements to be wholly pass'd by , as exceeding much , both for the outward and inward Workmanship , and particularly the fine Fret-work on the Cieling . The Church of Bath , though Litchfield be the Bishop's principal Seat , is by some call'd a Cathedral , and for largeness and elegance of Building may well enough be so accounted . Of the 5 Churches of Derby , that nam'd All-Hallows , is of chief Reputel , for its Tower-Steeple , of a stately heighth , and excellent Structure , and whose Foundation was laid , and part of it built , by young Men and Maids , as appears by Letters graven thereon . The Church of Shirburn in Dorsetshire , is much noted for its curious Workmanship within . The Church of Grantham chiefly eminent for the excessive heighth of its Steeple , which possibly gives occasion of that vulgar Report of this Steeple's standing awry , and of that fabulous Tradition of its having been , built by Hell's great Architect , who misliking something or other , gave it such a Blow with his Ruler , that it hath stood awry ever since . St Maries of Ratcliff in Bristow , for the stately ascent to it , its largeness , curious Workmanship , embowed Arch of Stone , and its lofty Steeple , hath been accounted the noblest Parish-Church of England . Another Church in the same City call'd the Temple , is remarkable for its Tower , which whensoever the Bell is rung , divides from the rest of the Building , with a Cleft from the bottom to the top , which gapes the breadth of three Fingers . In Lancashire , the Collegiate Church of Manchester hath a Quire , which though not very large , is remarkable for its rich adornment of Wood-work . Among the Churches of Coventry , two standing near each other , viz. Trinity-Church and St Michaels , are commended for their rare Workmanship and stately heighth . Coln , a little old Town in Wiltshire , hath nothing but its fair Church to commend it . Also Rippon , in the West-riding of Yorkshire , whose three Steeples shew their lofty Heads at considerable distance , to Travellers approaching the Place . Upon the Bridge of Wakefield , in the same Riding of Yorkshire , is a beautiful Chappel , erected by K. Edward the 4th , in memory of those of his Party who lost their Lives in the Battel there fought . The Church of Boston in Lincolnshire , beside its largeness , curious Workmanship , and its aspiring Tower-Steeple , hath this also memorable , that from the bottom to the top , the Steeple is ascended by as many Steps as there are Days in a Year . Yarmouth-Church ( for it hath but one ) gives no small addition of commendation to that Town , which is reckon'd among the most considerable of Norfolk . Oundale in Northamptonshire , is render'd no less memorable for its fair Church , than for its Free-School and Alms-house . At the Castle of Warkworth in Northumberland , there is a Chappel wonderfully hewn out of a Rock , without Beams , Rafters , or any thing of Timber-work . Wrexam in Denbighshire , hath a Church , which for neat Building , and the loftiness of its Steeple , is concluded to surpass all the Churches of North-Wales . But of all the Churches of this Island , ( and they are among the 6 chief Remarks thereof ) the Chappel of Kings-Colledge in Cambridge , already mention'd , is for rareness of Architecture and Contrivance , renown'd above most Structures , not only of England , but even of Europe also . The Castles of England were in ancient Times the chief-Seats of our Nobility ; but since the dissolution of the Abbeys , and the demolishment of very many Castles , in the several Wars of England , divers of the said Abbeys have become the Seats of Noblemen and Gentlemen . Yet some Noblemen at this day have ancient Castles for their chief Seats : As Barkly-Castle in Glocestershire , gives Title to the Honourable Family of the Skelton-Castle is the Seat of the Barons Bruse . The chief Castles now in the several Counties , are in Cheshire , Beeston , and the Castle of Chester . In Barkshire , Windsor afore-mention'd . In Cumberland , the Castle of Carlile . In Darbyshire , the Castle of the Peak . In Devonshire , the Castles of Dertmouth , and Castle-Rugemont in Exeter . In Shirburn-Castle . In the Bishoprick of Bernard-Castle . In Hantshire , Hurst , Carisbrook , and Saubam Castles . In Bradwardin-Castle , of which elsewhere . In Kent , the Castles of Dover and Queenborough , that of Canterbury being demolisht . In Hornby-Castle , and that of Lancaster , which is accounted one of the three chief Magnificences of the Town , the other two being the Church and the Bridge . In Lincolnshire , Belvoir and Castor Castles . In Monmouthshire , Chepstow and Strighal Castles . In Northamptonshire , Fotheringhay , mention'd upon another account , Baibroke , Rockingham and Maxey Castles . In Northumberland , Newcastle , Thrilwale , Tinmouth , Morpeth , Withrington , Warkworth and Alnwick Castles . In Richmondshire , the stately Castle of Bolton . In Bishops-Castle , Clun-Castle , Shrawarden-Castle , Knocking-Castle , Whittington-Castle , Routon-Castle , Tongue-Castle , whose Bell is very loud , as in noise , so in fame , in all those Parts . The Castles of Shrewsbury , Ludlow and Bridgnorth . In Dunster-Castle , which was built in William the Conquerour's Time , by the Family of the Mohuns , which flourisht from that time till the Reign of K. Richard the 2d , in very great splendor , and ever since hath continued in considerable reputation . In Staffordshire , Stourton and Dudly-Castle , with those of Tamworth , Chartly and Tutbury ; to which may be added , the memory of an old Castle at Stafford , now demolisht . In Framlingham-Castle , a Place of great State , Strength , Beauty and Convenience , and the Ruines of Burgh-Castle . In Surry , Holm , Beckworth and Sterborough Castles . In Amberly-Castle , and that of Bodiam , belonging to the Family of the Lewknors . In Warwickshire , Studly , Macstock and Ausley Castles , and the Castle of Warwick it self . In Whellep-Castle and Apelby . In Wiltshire , Castlecomb , Yainsborough and Warder . In Worcestershire , Hertlebury , Holt and Elmesly Castles . In the VVest-Riding of Yorkshire , Sheafield , Conisborough , Tickil , Sandal , Harewood , Knasborrow and Cawood Castles . In the East-Riding , the strong Castle of VVreshil . In the North-Riding , the Castles of Scarborough , Kilton , Skelton , already mention'd , VVilton , Kildale , Gilling , Skerry-hutton and Hinderskell . In VVales , the most noted Castles in Caermardenshire , Carreg . In Denbighshire , the strong and almost impregnable Castle of Denbigh . In Flintshire , Flint and Harding Castles . In Glamorganshire , Cardiff , now belonging to the Earls of Pembroke , but once the famous Residence of Sr Marmionwith his 12 Knights , little less renown'd in Story than K. Arthur and his Knights of the round Table , and whose Effigies were lately to be seen in the Hall of this Castle . The Bridges of England are not the least of the 7 Remarks of this Nation . And first , They are remarkable for number , as being reckon'd in all 875. In the next place , They plead precedence in the generality with all others in Europe . The Prime is London-Bridge , which is said to have been anciently built of Wood , and was then accounted a very stately Bridge ; but afterwards receiv'd a far greater pitch of lustre by being built of Stone , insomuch that without controversie it is judg'd the noblest Structure of that kind in Europe . It stands upon 19 Arches of Stone , which support a Street of very fair Edifices , of a quarter of a Mile in length , for so much the breadth of the Thames is accounted in that place . The next for Beauty and Magnificence , is that of Rochester ; and after that the Bridg of Stratford upon Avon . Among the three Beauties of the Town of Lancaster , the Bridge is one , the other two being the Church and Castle . Over the River Ouse , which encircles the Town of Buckingham , all but the North-side , are three fair Bridges of Stone . The same River Ouse runs through the midst of the Town of Bedford , and hath over it a handsom Stone-Bridge , with two Gates upon it . Over the River Dee is a stately Stone-Bridge , which leads to the City of Chester . It is supported with 8 Arches , and hath at each end two strong Gates , from whence the Walls commence , within which the City lyes in an oblong Square . From the River Derwent , a small Brook runs through the Town of Darby , ( which lyes on the Western-bank of that River ) under 9 Bridges . But the stateliest of all is that in the North-East part of the Town , upon which standeth a fair Chappel of Stone . Over the River VVeer , with which the City of Durham is almost wholly incompass'd , two neat Stone-Bridges , one from the South , the other from the North-Road , lead into the midst of the Town . The Bridge leading into VVarwick-Town , over the River Avon , is both sightly and strong . But particularly sumptuous with their Towers and Gates , are those two over Severn , at the East and West Entrances of Shrewsbury . That over the River Ouse at York , which stands on each side the River , hath one Arch , the largest and loftiest of any Bridge in England . Several others there are , and some perhaps not unworthy of memory , but these being the very chiefest , it will not be worth the while to mention any more . The grand Ornaments of any City are the publick Buildings thereof ; and next to the Churches , Palaces and Bridges , are the Monumental Structures , that present themselves most obviously to the view of Passengers in Streets and High-ways , as Aqueducts , Arches , and the Columnal or Imagery-Works , erected as Trophies in memory of some great Action or Person ; as also Places for publick Games and Spectacles . For Structures of this kind , never any City of the World was so famous as old Rome , whose Circus's , Amphitheaters , Columns , Pyramids , Tryumphal Arches , Equestrian Statues , &c. next to the massie Pyramids of Egypt , were accounted the greatest Pieces of Art and Magnificence the World ever saw . Nor are the Pyramids , Columns and Aguglia's of the present Rome , altogether unmemorable . Of Monuments of this nature in England , the Crosses erected in Streets and publick Places were the chief . And of those the principal were Coventry-Cross ; and in this City Charing-Cross , and that of Cheapside , which last was certainly the noblest Piece of Workmanship of this nature , as well for the largeness as the curiousness of the Imagery that ever was seen . Next , The Aqueducts or Conduits have been accounted no small Street-ornaments in many Towns and Cities , but the mention of those that were in London , may serve for all the rest . The chief that were in London before the Fire of 66. were the Standart in Cheapside , a Structure that might have pass'd for a noble Piece of Workmanship , had it not stood so near so rich a Cross . Another at the lower end of Cheapside . Another in Cornhil . That in Fleetstreet , hard by Shoe-lane end ; and another in Holborn , near Holborn-Bridge , besides several others of less Note . The only Conduit lately erected , now standing , is a pretty little Structure between Cow-lane and Snow-hill . Since the Fire , other kind of Monuments have been rais'd , which add not a little to the Ornament of the City in general , and give peculiar Grace to the Places where they stand . The chief whereof is the Monument erected where the Fire began , a Pyramid of stately heighth and curious Workmanship . Another Monument much of the same nature is design'd , and the Edifice rais'd some yards above the ground , at the lower end of Cheapside , at or very near the Place where the Conduit formerly stood : A very rare Design , as appears by the Model which I have often seen at the House of the ingenious Designer thereof , Mr Jasper Latham , the City-Mason . At the Stocks-Market is an Equestrian Statue in Stone of his present Majesty . And another more excellent than that in Brass , of his late Majesty of happy Memory , in the Place where Charing-Cross stood . In Covent-Garden Square is a Columnal-Dial , which only wants somewhat of Magnitude to make it a very graceful Ornament to the Place . Our Theaters at present are only two , That of his Majesty's Servants , between Bridges-street and Drury-lane ; and that of his Royal Highness's Servants , in Salisbury-street , with a majestick Front towards the Thames side . Artificial publick Bagno's have not been known in England till of late : The only one yet built is aside of Newgate-street , a pretty well contriv'd Piece of Building , had it been more publickly expos'd to view on the Street side . The Gates of Towns and Cities are not the least of Ornaments to the said Towns and Cities . Of the chief of them , except those in London , we have toucht in the respective Places to which they belong . The principal Gates of London are Ludgate , Newgate , Aldersgate , Algate , Bishopsgate and Temple-bar ; and the two Gates at Westminster , between Whitehal and Kings-street , most of them not inferior in Magnificence to the chief in Europe . But to close all that hath been said of publick Ornaments , there remains one thing more , not to be neglected by any Admirer of Art , which is a Piece of Sculpture in Stone , representing the Resurrection , over a Gate in Shoo-lane , that gives entrance into a Caemetery or Burying-place , which belongs to St Andrews-Church . This Piece of Carving I have heard commended by the best of Artists in this way , for the noblest Piece of Workmanship in its kind that hath been seen in England . Towns and Places of England eminent for some remarkeable Accident , Person , or Transaction . THE principal Things that render any Town or Place remarkable , are either the Glory and Antiquity of its Original , some notable Revolution of Government , Accidents hapning there , whether prosperous or adverse , Battels fought , or other grand Action perform'd in or near it , and the Birth , Residence or Death of Princes , and other eminent Men. For most if not all of those Remarks , there are many Towns and Cities of England , famous and principally of all , that which is the principal of all our Towns and Cities , London , for the most part the Seat of Kings from its Original ; with which as the City Westminster is so united in Place , that it seems in a manner one and the same City , so thē mention and discourse of them cannot well be separated . Of the Antiquity , Splendor of Government , Flourishing Trade , and Magnificence of Structure , in all which London hath the pre-eminence , not only of all the Places of England , but perhaps of all Europe , several have discours'd at large , besides what we may haply have occasion to touch at elsewhere . It can't be imagin'd , but that in a City which hath been a flourishing City for so many Ages , many remarkable Accidents must have hapned , and great Actions been perform'd , in the mention whereof however all possible brevity must be us'd . King Lud , who reign'd here a little before Caesar's arrival , if he were not the first Founder , as some think , he was at least not only the Enlarger , but also the Denominator . For among other things he built the West-Gate , which to this day retains the Name of Ludgate ; and what was before of a City , by the Name of Trinobantium , took the Name of Caer-Lud ; and the present appellation of London is fancy'd by many to be deriv'd from him , as it were Luds-Town . About the year 285. here Alectus , Lieutenant to the Emperor Diocletian , was slain by Asclepiodotus , D. of Cornwal ; and together with him was slain his Companion Gallus , at a Brook , which from him still retains the name of Gall-brook , or Wall brook . Here Sigebert , third King of the East-Angles , who began his Reign in the year of our Lord 596. and Ethelbert King of Kent , who began his Reign in the year of our Lord 562. built the Cathedral of St. Pauls in the very place , as 't is said , where there had been a Temple of Diana . In the Reign of Edmund , sirnamed Ironside , this City was closely besieg'd by the Danes , but the Siege was soon rais'd by that valiant Prince King Edmund . About the year 1077. the Tower of London was built by K. William the Conqueror , whose Successour K. William Rufus built new walls about it . Anno 1135. in the Reign of K. Stephen the greatest part of this City was consumed by an accidental Fire . In K. Richard the Seconds time was the great Rencounter with Jack Straw and Wat Tiler in East-Smithfield , where in an overture of treaty Wat Tiler behaving himself with extraordinary insolence , was in presence of the King stabb'd by Sir William Wallworth , Lord Mayor of London , with a Dagger , in memory whereof the City of London hath to this day a Dagger for its Coat of Arms. This City hath had the honour to entertain several great Kings , Princes , and Nobles ; but the grandest transaction that London can boast of , was that most stately Cavalcade which his present Majesty made through it the 29th of May An. 1660. when he returned from a long Exile to the Government of these Kingdoms : But the year 1666. was fatal to it by reason of that most dreadful fire that consum'd all before it from Grace-Church Street to the Inner Temple , destroying to the number , as is generally computed , of 13000 dwelling-houses ; and this preceded but the year before by the fiercest Pestilence that ever raged within the cognisance of the Weekly Bills . In this City King Stephen kept his Court at Crosby-house in Bishopsgate-street ; King Edward the third in Cornhil where now the Pope-head Tavern stands ; King Henry the eighth at Black-friers , and sometimes at Bridewell , once a Regal Palace , where also the Emperour Charles the fifth was lodg'd when he came over into England . The Palace of St. James's , which is in the Pomaeria of London , and which was first built for a Spittle for Maiden Lepers , hath been the Birth-place of his present Majesty K. Charles the 2d , his Highness James Duke of York , Henry late Duke of Glocester , the Lady Elizabeth , the Lady Mary late Princess of Orange , and all the Children of his present Highness by his late Dutchess ; Edgar Duke of Kendal , James Duke of Cambridg , deceast ; the Lady Henrietta and the Lady Lady Katherine deceast ; Mary now Princess of Orange , the Lady Anne yet unmarried ; as also of two Daughters ( both soon hasten'd to a better World ) by his present Dutchess . Other persons of eminent note and immortal memory were born at London , viz. Thomas Becket Archbishop of Canterbury in the Reign of K. Henry the 2d , by four of whese Courtiers he was murther'd in Canterbury Church , Anno 1170. after a long contest with the King ; Sir Jeoffry Chaucer the most famous of ancient English Poets , who flourisht in the Reigns of K. Henry the 4th , Henry the 5th , and part of K. Henry the 6th . Edmund Spencer , styl'd also the Prince of English Poets , who flourisht in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ; John Leland , Sir Thomas More , Bishop Andrews . The Tower of London is very eminent for the Confinement , Murther , and Execution of Illustrious persons : to mention all , especially those who have been meerly Prisoners , would be almost endless ; but the most memorable Imprisonment was that of two Kings at one time in the Reign of King Edward the third , viz. of David King of Scots , and of John King of France ; the first a Prisoner 11 years , the other four . Here the unfortunate King Henry the sixth , after Edward the fourth had got the Crown from him by Conquest , was basely murther'd by King Edward's Brother Richard Duke of Glocester , afterward King of England . Here George Duke of Clarence , another Brother , was by the practice of the said Duke of Glocester , drown'd in a Butt of Malmsey : but the most fatal Tragedy of all was the murther of King Edward the fourth's two Sons , poor harmless children , viz. Edward commonly entitled King Edward the fifth , and his Brother Richard Duke of York , and all by the order and contrivement of their Dear Uncle of Glocester , who , as most great persons have their peculiar Sports and Recreations , was principally taken with that of killing men , especially those of nearest kin ; for such he chiefly markt out for death out of meer kindness to himself , that he might the sooner obtain the possession of that Crown he had long since aspir'd to : and indeed he got it sooner , and kept it longer : ( so easie it is for one witty man to delude a Multitude , ) than a curious descanter upon the worlds affairs would have allow'd a person so getting it ; however what he got by the death of others he lost by his own , only more handsomely , not by treachery , but fairly in the field . In Christ-church in London three great Queens had their Sepulture , viz. Margaret the Daughter of King Philip of France sirnamed the Hardy , and second Wife of King Edward the second of England . Isabel the Daughter of the French King Philip the Fair , and Wife to King Edward the second of England . Joan the Daughter of the said Edward and Isabel , and married to David King of Scots . Westminster hath been the most constant residence of the Kings of England since the Conquest , till Whitehall was built by Cardinal Wolsey . It will be needless to mention all the Kings that have been crown'd and buried here , in regard since the Conquest there are not very many who have not been buried , and fewer that have not been crown'd in Westminster Abby . At Isleworth , now Thistleworth , a Village pleasantly situate upon the River Thames , Richard King of the Romans , and Earl of Cornwall , had a stately Palace , which was burnt to the ground in a tumultuous sally that was made upon it by certain Malecontents of the London Mobile . In Surry are places of as eminent note as in most Counties of England . In the first place Lambeth is chiefly renowned for being the principal Palace and most usual residence of the Archbishops of Canterbury , from the time of Archbishop Baldwin who first founded it , and made it his Seat in the year 596 , and from whom it hath continued so to this day , the most reverend and learned Prelate Dr. Sancroft late Dean of Pauls , being worthily advanc'd to this high Dignity , and having here his present residence . Here Canutus sirnamed the Hardy , the third and last of our short-liv'd Dynasty of Danish Kings , ended his days of a surfeit , as most Writers affirm , by eating and drinking over freely at a Wedding Feast . Croydon is another Seat belonging to the Archbishops of Canterbury ; and where the Reverend Dr. Gilbert Sheldon , late Archbishop , lies buried , having a most statety Monument newly elected to his memory , the Artful Contrivance and skilful Workmanship of Mr Jasper Latham , the present City Mason . At Ockly in this County Ethelwolph Son of Egbert won a great Battel over the Danes . Oatlands is not more famous for being a Royal Palace , than for the Neighbourhood of Coweystakes where Julius Caesar pass'd the Thames into the Borders of Cassibesaunus . Putney is chiefly considerable in story as being the Birth-place of one of the most advanced Statesmen and Favourites ( for he was but the Son of a Black-smith ) that our Nation hath produced , viz. Thomas Cromwell , chief Minister of State , for the time , to King Henry the eighth , and by him created Earl of Essex , who nevertheless had the ill fate , falling under his Princes displeasure , to be beheaded on Tower-Hill . Wimbleton ( where the Earl of Bristol hath a pleasant seat ) still retains the memory of a notable defeat given by Cheaulin King of the West-Saxons to Ethelred King of Kent with the slaughter of two of his Dukes in the year of our Lord 560. At Richmond , to which in former ages the Kings and Queens of England retired for pleasure , as of late to Hampton-Court and Windsor , there deceased that victorious Prince King Edward the third , Anne the Daughter of the Emperour Charles the fourth , and Wife of King Richard the second , Henry of Richmond the seventh of that name King of England , and that learned and renowned Princess Queen Elizabeth of happy memory . Kingston upon Thames a very pleasant and much frequented Market Town , was probably the usual place of Coronation of the Saxon Monarchs ; for there was kept the Chair of Instalment : but the Kings most particularly mentioned to have been there crown'd , were King Athelstan , Edwin , and Ethelred . Guilford a Town otherwise of especial note , is also famous for having been the Royal Seat of the English Saxon Kings . Merton is doubly upon record , first for the untimely death of Kenulph King of the West-Saxons , who was here slain by Kinea●d King Sigeberts Brother ; next for the Parliament there held An. 21 of K. Henry the third , which Parliament produc'd an Act , which to this day is called the Statute of Merton . Okeham hath its chief credit as being the native place of that famous English Philosopher William de Okeham . Likewise Ripley no less by the birth of that learned Chymist George de Ripley . In Essex , Colchester , which is the County Town , hath the honourable tradition of having been built by the ancient British King Coilus ; but that which redounds chiefly to its honour , is , that it is said to have brought into the world three persons of immortal memory , viz. Lucius the first not only British , but European King that embrac'd the Christian Faith. Constantine the first Roman Emperour , who openly proprofessing Christianity , gave countenance and protection to the Christians of all parts , and put an end to those heavy Persecutions which they groaned under so many Ages ; and if by his extraordinary bounty and munificence to the Clergy , he made an inlet to that pride and ambition among them , which hath proved mischievous to Christendome ever since , it was an errour on the right hand , and however succeeding otherwise , an evidence of his pious generosity and zeal for Religion and Vertue . Helena the Wife of Constantius , born also in England , and , as it is generally suppos'd , in York , and Mother of the said Constantine : her fame shines bright in History for her piety in general , and particularly for the fame of her being Inventrix Crucis . The next Town of note in this County is Maldon , a very ancient Town , and the Seat Royal of the Trinobantes , of whom Cunobelinus was King about the time of our Saviours Nativity ; it was taken by the Emperour Claudius , and made a Roman Garison , being call'd by the Romans Camalodunum , rased to the ground by Queen Bunduca or Boadicia , after a mighty defeat given to the Romans in revenge of some high affronts and indignities she received from them , but was afterwards rebuilt , and is of some reputation at this day , though doubtless far short of its pristine splendor . At Walden , famous for Saffron as is already mentioned , was born Sir Thomas Smith Secretary to Queen Elizabeth . Kent , as it is a large County , is enobled with very many Towns and places of note ; in the first place Canterbury is a City of that eminence , that next to London there is hardly a City in England memorable upon so many accounts : It is said to have been built 900 years before Christ : it is the principal of the Archiepiscopal Sees of England ; it was given by Ethelbert King of Kent to Austin the Monk and his Companions , upon whose preaching 10000 were baptized in one day . By the said Austin the Cathedral is said to have been founded , in which eight Kings of Kent were interred . Even the misfortunes of this City have been also memorable , for it suffer'd very much several times by the fury of the Danes , especially in the Reign of Ethelred , when 42000 of the Inhabitants were sacrific'd to their fury and revenge ; it hath had the honour of the Coronations , Nuptials and Interments of several great Kings and Princes . Here King John and his Queen Isabel were Crown'd , King Henry the third and King Edward the first Married : Edward the Black Prince , King Henry the fourth and his Q. Joan were Interred : and also with far more cost and magnificence that great Prelate , and even to adoration adored Saint Thomas a Becket , of whose rich and stately , Tomb mention hath been elsewhere made . Rochester said to be built by one Roff Lord thereof , is also a City , and not much inferiour in repute to Canterbury . Several Counties there are which have no City , the Bishops See being but in one of half a dozen Counties , but Kent is the only one County that hath two . This City was also miserably harrass'd by the Danes , and suffer'd very much ruine by two dreadful Fires , viz. in the Reign of King Henry the first and King Henry the second ; but being very much restored by the munificence of King Henry the third , it hath continued a flourishing City ever since . Maidstone , a pleasant and well-seated Town is the more memorable by the great defeat given there to the Earl of Holland , who headed the Kentish-men rising for the King , by Fairfax General of the Parliament Forces . Feversham is enobled by the Burial of King Stephen and his Queen Maud. Dover , besides the renown of its Castle , said to be built by Julius Caesar , and the great honour of the Government thereof , hath given reception and entertainment to many great Kings and Princes . Queenborough Castle was built by King Edward the third . Wye , a Sea-port Town , where the learned and famous J. Kemp Archbishop of Canterbury was born . Horsted is chiefly noted for the Monument now defaced of Horsa , one of the first Leaders of the invading Saxons , the Brother of Hengift . The like Monument was made for Catigern , another of the Brothers , at Circotes-house , which is standing to this day . Black-heath hath been the place of several grand Recounters in the Barons Wars in King Henry the third's time , as also of Wat Tiler in King Richard the second 's time , and of Michael Joseph and the Lord d' Auhenie in King Henry the seventh's time . But that which gives the greatest glory and re-renown to this place , is the memory of that grand appearance at his Majesties Restoration , when all the Gentry and Nobility of the Nation , and all the Pomp and splendor of the City of London met to receive his Majesty and his two Brothers , and conduct them through the City to the Royal Palace of Whitehall , and even the armed part of the Nation that but lately had drawn the Sword against him , now met him with the highest acclamations of welcome . In Buckinghamshire , Buckingham the Shire Town was fortified by King Edward sirnamed the Elder , against the fury of the Danes , and still shews the ruins of a strong and stately Castle built upon a hill . Stony-Stratford was a Station of the Romans , and by them call'd Lactorodum . Here the said King Edward the Elder ▪ gave a stop to the violent incursions of the Danes upon those parts ; and this is one of those places where the first of that name since the Conquest rais'd a stately monumental Cross in memory of Queen Eleanor . At Chilton in this Shire was born that learned Writer in the Law Sir George Crook . Amersham , so call'd qu. Agmondsham , is not only eminent by the name of the great Agmond , from whom it takes denomination , but by the birth of several learned Writers , especially John , sirnamed from the place of his Nativity , Amersham ; and John Gregory of the present Age , whose posthume works are worthily reckon'd among the principal of English Writings . At Windover was born Roger , thence sirnamed de Windover , Historian to King Henry the third . At Houton , Roger Goad , a man of good repute for learning . In Barkshire are several places of note . Reading boasts the Interment of King Henry the first , in a Collegiate Church of an Abby founded by himself , together with his Queen and his Daughter Maud the Empress . He also built here a strong Castle which was rased to the ground by King Henry the second . But this Town is yet more remark'd by the birth of William Laud , who of a poor Clothiers Son of Reading , was advanc'd to the highest Ecclesiastical Office and Dignity of the Nation , viz. the Archiepiscopal See of Canterbury : nor is it to be forgotten how manfully this Town was held out in the time of the late Civil War by Sir Jacob Aston against the whole power of the Earl of Essex , General of the Parliaments forces for a whole twelve month's time , but at length it was taken by the said Earl. And from this place , in the Reign of King Henry the second a learned Writer , viz. Hugh of Reading , took both Birth and Sirname . At Inglefield the Danes received a great defeat from King Ethelwolf . Wallingford the Gallena of Ptolomy , was an ancient Station of the Romans , and the chief City of the Atrebates . From this place Richard of Wallingford took his birth , and consequently his Sirname . Abington , besides that it was a place of much action in the time of the Civil Wars in his late Majesties Reign , gave birth to Sir John Mason , Privy Counsellor to King Henry the eighth , King Edward the sixth , Q. Mary and Qu. Elizabeth ; as also to Sir John Smith , Latin Secretary and Master of Requests to King James . Windsor is renowned as having been built by King Edward the third , and as the place where was first instituted that most illustrous Order of the Knights of the Garter by that most victorious Prince , and of which the greatest Kings and Princes of Europe have been fellows from the first Institution to this day ; and likewise for the Interment of King Henry the sixth , King Edward the fourth , King Henry the eighth , and King Charles the first , whose Body hath been since remov'd to Westminster , and interr'd in King Henry the seventh's Chappel . Moreover this place gave birth to a person of great fame for his learned Writings , viz. Roger hence sirnamed of Windsor . Eaton , nearly adjoyning , and almost contiguous to Windsor , is a place , besides the fame of being built by King Henry the sixth , trebly renown'd for learning , first as a Nursery for the bringing up of Youth , being one of the chiefest Free-schools in England ; secondly as a place of maintenance and encouragement for the studious and well advanc'd in learning ; thirdly as the Birth-place of several learned men , particularly Samuel Collins , William Oughtred the great Mathematician , and Matthew Stokes . At Ratcot Bridge Robert Vere Duke of Ireland was put to flight by the Duke of Glocester , the Earls of Arundel , Warwick and Derby , with the slaughter of Sir Thomas Molineux Constable of Chester . This Radcot is by some reckon'd in Oxfordshire . Sunning is sufficiently signal in history as having bin an Episcopal See for the residence of eight Bishops , which See was translated to Shirbourn , and afterwards to Salisbury , where it still remains . Wantage is enobled by the Birth of that great mirrour of a Prince , for Virtue , Learning and Valour , King Alfred sirnamed the Scourge of the Danes . Waltham in the East of this County was an ancient Station of the Romans ; so likewise Sinodum in the North. Newbury a Town of sufficient note in this Shire , is yet more noted by the birth of Thomas Hide a learned Writer ; and also by two great Fights fought in the time of the late Civil Wars between the Forces of his late Majesty and the Parliament Army under the Earl of Essex . Spene and Pesemere , two places of no other note than by the birth of two eminent Writers , the first of William Twisse , the other of William Lyford . In Hantshire , Winchester the ancient Venta Belgarum of the Romans , is said to have been built by that famous Rudhudibras , great in the Catalogue of the old British Kings . It was the Seat Royal of the West Saxons , and chief Epicopal See , and still remains the Episcopal See of a great part of that which was the West Saxon Kingdom . It was honour'd with the Coronations of King Egbert and King Alfred , and the Birth of King Henry the third . Here in the Cathedral built by King Kenwolf King of the West Saxons , were interred King Egbert , King Ethelwolf , King Alfred with his Queen Elswith , the first Edmund , King Edred , and King Edwy ; Queen Emma and her Husband the Danish King Canutus , as also his Son Hardy-Canutus , and after the Conquest King William Rufus and his Brother Richard. Here King Athelstan kept his Mint . At St. Peters in the Suburbs of this City was born John Russel , created Bishop of Lincoln by King Edward the fourth , and Lord Chancellour of England by King Richard the third . This City also brought forth two persons of illustious memory for learning , viz. Lampridius sirnamed of Winchester , a Benedictine Monk , who flourisht An. 980. and Wolstan of Winchester , a Benedictine likewise , & accounted in those times an eminent Poet , who flourisht An. 1000. Southampton , built out of the ruines of the ancient Clausentium , and after many devastations reedified in King Richard the second 's time , is a most pleasant and well fortified Town with a goodly Castle proudly advanced on a Hill. In a Maison dieu or Hospital here lies interr'd the body of Richard Earl of Cambridge , who was executed for Treason in the Reign of King Henry the fifth . In the Parish of St. Michael in Southampton was born Arthur Lake Bishop of Bath and Wells , who died An. 1602. as also Sir Thomas Lake Secretary of State to King James . At Basingstoke John sirnamed of Basingstoke , the first English Author of a Greek Grammar , who died An. 1252. William Paulett , Baron of Basing and Marquess of Winchester , 〈…〉 to King Henry the seventh , and Lord Treasurer to King Henry the eighth , Edward the sixth , Queen Mary , and Queen Elizabeth , he died An. 1572. and lastly Richard White , who studying at Doway began to grow famous for Learning An. 1611. At Andover was born Robert Thomson , a man of Military fame , who made an Expedition to Spain An. 1553. At Warblington Henry Bishop of Salisbury in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth : He died An. 1615. At Hide , John stil'd the Monk of Hide , an Historian , who flourish'd An. 1284. Odiam hath its chief repute from the birth of William Lilly , the first Master of Pauls School . He died of the Plague , and was buried in the Porch of St. Pauls Anno 1522. Ilchester seems by its ruins to have been a very eminent City of the Romans , and the principal of these parts in antient times . At Wickham in this Shire was born the famous William thence sirnamed of Wickam , Bishop of Winchester , who died An. 5 H. 4. At Okeley William Warham , Bishop first of London , afterwards Archbishop of Canterbury in the Reign of King Henry the 7th . In the Isle of Wight , Thomas James the chief , if not only Ornament of that Island , for eminence of Learning . Other famous men this Shire hath brought forth ; Beavise of Southampton , whose acts of Chivalrie had perhaps stood greater in real History , had they not been so much falsified by Romantick stories . Sir John Wallop , whose valour and conduct in Sea-affairs have kept his memory alive . Richard Rich , Baron of Lees Abby in Essex , and Lord Treasurer of England in the Reign of King Edward the sixth , and Ancestor to the present Earls of Warwick . And for Learning , R. Sherburn , Bishop first of St. Davids , then of Chichester , under King Henry the seventh . John White , Bishop first of Lincoln , then of Winchester , and accounted in his time not the meanest of Poets , who died about 1560. Thomas Bilson Bishop of Winchester , who died about An. 1618. Michael Reneger . William Alton , a Dominican , who flourisht An. 1330. David Whitehead , who died An. 1571. Nicholas Fuller , who died An. 1626. Charles Butler , who died An. 1640. Thomas Sternhold , Groom of the Bed-chamber , first to King Henry the eighth , then to King Edward the sixth , who owes his fame in Poetry , not so much to the Elegancy of Rhimes , as to the fortune of his having been one of the first Translators of Davids Psalms into English Metre ; which by reason they hapned to be generally sung in Churches , have been ever since preferred to several better Translations . In Bedfordshire , Bedford the County Town hath to its cost been the Scence of much action in the Civil Wars , between King Stephen and the Empress Maud ; it suffer'd much havock and devastation , and afterwards fell into the hands of the Barons in their Wars against King John : And lastly , was ras'd to the ground by King Henry the third ; but being rebuilt again , hath flourished ever since in much tranquility and splendour . In a Chappel not far from this Town the Body of the great Mercian King Offa is said to have been interr'd , concerning which there goes a pretty odd story , which it were pity to forget , viz. that the Chappel being overwhelm'd by an Inundation of the River Ouse , upon whose banks it stood , the Leaden incloser of King Offa's body hath been often seen of those that declin'd the sight , but never could be seen of those that sought to see it . Dean in this Shire is eminent for the birth of Francis Dillingham , a person of good note for Learning ; as likewise Laiton Buzzard for the birth of William Sclator . Sandy was an ancient Roman Station by the name of Selenae ; and Dunstable , another by the name of Magintum ; however some vainly have deliver'd that it was built by King Henry the first to repress the insults of a notable sturdy Thief call'd Dun , and thereupon call'd Dunstable . This Town is moreover signalliz'd by the learned Author John sirnamed hence of Dunstable . In Suffolk , Ipsich , qu. Gipswich , from Gipsa , is said to be the Founder thereof , besides its flourishing Estate in shipping-trade , goodly buildings , populacy of inhabitants , ( though much harrass't in ancient times by the Danes ) is particularly noted for the birth of that great Pageantry of Fortune Cardinal Woolsy , whose father was a Butcher of this Town . St. Edmundbury , a Town which seems to commence its Fame from the barbarous Murther of that Royal St Edmund , King of the East-angles by the Danes ; For the Expiation whereof Canutus erected here that Stately Monastery which was once accounted the most Rich and Magnificent of Europe . This place is also memorable for a Parliament here held in the Reign of King Henry the sixth . Exning , the Birth-place of St Audri , sister to King Ina. Renlisham , the place where Redwald the first Christian King of the East-angles kept his Court. Lidgat , a place chiefly memorable for the Birth of John , thence Sirnamed Lidgate , one of the chief of our ancient Enlish Poets . In Hertfordshire , St Albans rais'd out of the ruins of Old Verulamium an ancient Roman station , is extoll'd not only for the memory of that great British Protomartyr Albanus , and that most stately Monastery erected by the Mercian King Offa , but also for two great battels here fought , the first on the 23d of May Anno 1455 , between Richard Duke of York and King Henry the 6th , in which the King was defeated with the slaughter of the Duke of Somerset , the Earl of Northumberland , and the Lord Clifford , and 5000 common Souldiers : the 2 d. on the 17 th . of February Anno 1460. where King Henry and his Queen Margaret had the better against the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk , and the Earls of Arundel and Warwick . Nor is it to be omitted , that Sir John Mandevil , famous for his Travels , had here his birth . Barnet is not more fam'd for its rich Market and the great concourse to its Wells , than for the memory of that grand Victory gain'd by King Edward the fourth on an Easter-day , being the 14 th of April , An. 1471. against the Earls of Warwick and Oxford , in which Field the great Earl of Warwick was slain . But had there been nothing else to give Fame to this Town , it must have been mentioned for the Birth of John Barnet , Bishop first of Worcester , then of Bath and Wells , lastly of Ely , and Lord Treasurer of England , in the Reign of King Edward the 3 d. Langly ( commonly call'd Kings Langly ) is of repute in History , for the Birth of Prince , Edmund thence sirnamed of Langly , fifth Son to King Edward the third , and the first interment of King Richard the second , whose body was afterwards removed to Westminster . Nor much less Abbots Langly ( so is another Langly term'd that lyes Easterly ) for the birth of Nicholas Break-spear , advanc't to the See of Rome , by the name of Pope Adrian the fourth , a man of true English mettal , and that would not bate an Ace of his Pontifical greatness ▪ for he made the Emperour Frederick hold his Stirrup the better to help him into the Saddle . Oister near St Albans is supposed by Cambden to have been the Camp of the Roman Lieutenant Ostorius . Weathamstead qu. Wheathamstead , chiefly noted for the birth of John of Wethamstead , a profound Philosopher . Other places Hertfordshire noted for famous men . Ware , for Richard de Ware , Treasurer of England under Edward the first , and William de Ware who was Scotus his Teacher , and flourisht under King Henry the third . Baldock , for Ralph Baldock , created Bishop of London by King Edward the first . Rudburn , for Thomas Rudburn Bishop of St Davids , who flourisht An. 1419. Helmstedbury , for Sir Edward Waterhouse , Chancellour of the Exchequer in Ireland under Queen Elizabeth . Gatesden , for John de Gatesden , who flourisht An. 1420. Hamstead , for Daniel Dike . Cottered , for Edward Symonds . Gorham-berry , for Sir Nicholas Bacon . Nor may we here omit other eminent men of this Shire , viz. Sir Henry Cary , a great Souldier in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , by whom he was created Baron of Hunsden , and Lord Chamberlain . John Boucher , Baron Berners . And of learned men , Alexander Nequam , who died An. 1227. Nicholas Gorham , who flourisht An. 1400. Roger Hutchinson . Thomas Cartwright , and Hugh Legat. In Norfolk , the chief City and Episcopal See Norwich , seems to have sprung out of the ancient Venta of the Romans , and is chiefly Famous for its sufferings , having been sackt and burnt by the Danes in the year 1004. And in the Conquerours time reduc't to utmost exigence for siding with Earl Radulph against the said King William . The Cathedral was Founded by Herbert , who translating the Bishoprick ftom Thetford to Norwich , was the first Bishop of Norwich . Thetford , the ancient Sitomagus of the Romans , is a place of much remark for antiquity ; It was the Royal Seat of the Kings of the East-Angles , and the unfortunate place where King Edmund the Martyr was overthrown by the Danes . The Bishoprick which is now of Norwich was translated from Elmham to Thetford , in the Reign of King William the Conquerour . Lyn , a Sea Port Town , was made Liber Burgus , and honoured with the gift of a rich Cup by King John , and had their Charter inlarg'd by King Henry the third , for their good Service against the Outlawed Barons , and in King Henry the eighth's time other priviledges were added , and the name changed from Lyn Episcopi to Lyn Regis . Yarmouth boasts the antiquity of its foundation from the time of the Danes . Elmham is considerable for having been a Bishops See for several Ages , first divided with Dunwich in Suffolk , next sole till it was translated to Thetford , thence to Norwich . In Sussex the City Chichester boasts the Foundation of Cissa , the second King of the South-Saxons , and had the Bishoprick translated thither in King William the Conquerours time from Selsey , which till then had been the Episcopal See. Lewis , a Town little if ought inferiour to Chichester , is sufficiently of name in History , as having been one of the places appointed by King Athelstan , for the Coinage of his Mony , and for the strong Castle built by Earl William de Warren . Here also was a bloody battel fought between King Henry the third and his Barons , in which the King receiv'd a cruel Overthrow . Pensey , a little Sea Town but great in Story , as the Landing place of King William the Conquerour , when by one Victorious battle he gain'd the Crown of England , with the slaughter of King Harold and his two Brothers , Leofwin and Goroh , and about 67000 men . Hastings being the Town near which this successful held was fought , hath gotten so much the greater name , and the very place of fight retains to this day the name of Battle-field . Buckstead , a place in some respect of as great note as any hath been nam'd . For here in the thirty fifth year of King Henry the eight , the first Great Iron Guns that ever were cast in England were cast by Peter Baude and Ralph Hage . In Cambridge-Shire the Town of Cambride is of too high a renown for its many Halls and Colledges , the habitations of the Muses , richly indow'd for the advancement and incouragement of Learning , to be here pass't by , and too well taken notice of , and describ'd by others to be longer insisted on . Eli , the Bishops Seat and denominating City of the Diocess , is said to have been built by one Audry , who was first wife of one Tombret Prince of these parts , and afterwards of Egbert King of Northumberland , from whom departing , She here betook her self to a devout life , and built a most stately Monastery , of which She her self became the first Abbess . This place is also recordable for the Birth of several Learned men , viz. Andrew Willet who died An. 1621. Sir Thomas Ridly Dr. of the Laws , who died An. 1629. Richard Parker who died here An. 1624. Everton in this Shire gave Birth to John Tiptoft , Son of John Lord Tiptoft , Earl of Worcester , and Lord High Constable of England . Triplow is memorable by the Birth of Elias Rubens a Writer of grand repute , who flourisht An. 1266. Everden gave both Birth and Sirname to John Eversden another learned Writer . Of this County were also Matthew Paris , and Sir John Cheek , Tutor to King Edward the sixth , and Richard Wethershet , who flourisht in the year 1350. At Caxton was born William thence Sirnamed Caxton , the first Printer in England . Wisbich brought forth Richard Hocloet a man eminent for Learning An. 1552. Linton is only note-worthy for the Birth of Richard Richardson , one of the Translatours of the Bible , who deceas't An. 1621. Milton , as 't is generally believ'd , gave birth to Thomas Goad , a Writer of good note . Mildred brought forth Andrew Mervail Minister of Hull , a Learned Father of a Learned and Witty Son , for so was that Andrew who died but a few years since ; he was a Member in the late long Parliament for the Town of Hull , a man of very acute parts , had he not fail'd in his affection to the Government , as several of his Writings testifie . Of this County were Michael Dalton , a Learned Writer , and also Edward Norgate . In Huntington-Shire , St Neots so call'd from Neotus , a Holy and Learned man , is memorable for the defeat given to the Earl of Holland by the Parliament Forces in the late Civil Wars , An. 1648. as also for being the Birth-place of two eminent men , viz. Francis White Bishop of Ely , and Hugh thence Sirnamed of St Neots , who deceas't Anno 1340. Godmanchester , qu. Gormoncester , from Gormon the Dane , is concluded to have been the Old Durisiponte of the Romans , and some think from the nearness of the name , the same with Gunicester , where Macutus had his Bishoprick . At this Godmanchester was born , a man who made too much noise in the world to be forgotten ; Stephen Marshal , one of the chief of those Zealous Trumpetters of the late times , who from the Pulpit stirr'd up to War and Bloodshed in the Name of the Lord. At St Ives was born Roger thence Sirnam'd of St Ives , who flourisht An. 1420. At Cunnington the Learned Antiquary , Sir Robert Cotton . Moreover from Huntington the Capital place of this Shire sprung two very famous men . Gregory of Huntington , who died An. 1610. and Henry of Huntington , renowned for his History , who flourish't An. 1248. Other Celebrated men of this Shire were William Whitlesey , Archdeacon of Huntington , who died An. 1375. Henry Saltry , who flourisht 1140. William Ramsey , a famous Poet. John Young , and John White . In Wiltshire , Wilton the Denominating and once the Principal Town of the Shire , is so much the more notable a place by how much the more despicable it now appears , as a strange example of the various turns of fortune , and mutations of human affairs , having only the name left of a Market Town , else but a pitiful Village , ( consisting of one only Parish Church , ) which is said to have been a Town of about seventeen or eighteen Parish Churches , and having no Memorial or Monument of antiquity , which hath been the Theater of so many grand Transactions . Here Egbert the Westsaxon and at last Sole Monarch of the English , encountred Bernulf , King of Mercia , and slew him in Battle ; but in this very place he afterwards received a terrible overthrow from the Danes . At Edindon King Alfred gave the Danes a very notable defeat . Bradford is memoris'd for a bloody Battle fought between two great Competitors in the Saxon Heptarchy . At Woodensbury An. 590. Cheaulin King of the West-Saxons encountring the Britains who joyn'd with his Nephew Cealrick , was put to flight , and his Son Cuth slain . Here also Ina the West-Saxon fought with Ceolred the Mercian . Old Sarum was a place made choice of by the Romans for a strong encamped habitation , as by the ruins thereof at this day appears . Here the Britains receiv'd a fatal overthrow from Kenrick the Saxon , besides what spoil was afterwards done by Canutus . Caln is famous for that great Assembly , which put an end to the controversy about the Marriage of Priests , by reason of a disaster which happened by the fall of the Room , to the destruction of several people of all sorts . Brokenbridge and Cosham , places doubly famous in History . First , as having been ancient Roman Seats , next , as the Courts of some of the Saxon Kings . Crekelade , memorable for the Fame of an University said to have been anciently here erected , and from hence removed to Oxford . Malmsbury , qu. Maidulphsbury , from Maidulphus , a person of renown both for Sanctity and Learning , is no less memorable for the famous Monastery there erected by the said Maidulphus , then for the birth of two great men viz. William , thence sirnamed of Malmesbury , a Celebrated Historian , and Thomas Hobbes of this present Age , and but a few years since deceast , a man of much Earning and more cunning Sophistry , for the maintenance of those principles he maintained thereby . In Dorsetshire , Dorchester the chief Town , only boasts of some antiquity , as from the Roman name Durnovaria . Badbury was anciently the Court of the West-Saxon Kings . At Cern , Austin broke down the Idol of the Saxon God Hell. Shaftsbury is fam'd for the History of the Prophesying Eagle , most probably a man whose name was Aquila . Here was enterr'd the Body of Edward the Son of Edgar , Murthered by his Mother-in-Law at Corfe Castle . At Winburn-Minster , built by Cuthburga , Wife in second Marriage to a King of Northumberland , the Body of King Ethelred was buried . Shirburn was an Episcopal See for a long time , in the Cathedral whereof were buried the bodies of King Ethelbald and King Ethelbert . In Somersetshire the principal place is the City of Bath , Brit. Akamancester , Lat. Aquâ solis & Badissa , very famous and much frequented for its hot Bathing-Springs , which our old British Traditions will have to be the invention of Bladud an ancient British King. Bath and Wells joyntly together make one Bishoprick . Wells is principally esteem'd for its Cathedral , which is said to have been built by Inas King of the West-Saxons . Pen now a small Village is memoris'd for a great overthrow given to the Britains by Kenwald King of the West-Saxons , and afterwards to the Danes by K. Edmund Ironside . Bridgewater is otherwise a Town of very good note , and of memory for a notable defeat given here to the Danes by Ealstan Bishop of Shirburn , An. 845. Glastonbury , Avalonia , is principally renowned for its Monastery , deliver'd to have been founded by Joseph of Arimathea , the first Preacher ( as some Writers affirm ) of the Gospel in this Island . In the Church-yard of Glastonbury in King Henry the second 's Reign , was found a Corps of a large demension , which by several circumstances was concluded to be the Body of King Arthur . Cadbury is recordable for the defeat given by King Arthur to the English Saxons . Banesdown ( Mons Badonicus ) is a place renown'd for several other of King Arthurs Victories , and where King Alfred overthrew the Danes , and brought Gorrum to the Sacred Font. Camalet a steep Hill , was doubtless some Fort or Encampment of the Romans , as appears by the Coins there found ; moreover on the top thereof there remains to this day the Vestigia of some noble Castle , which is said to have been a Palace of King Arthur . This Town some Writers have placed in Cornwal . Ilchester appears also by the like demonstration to have been a station of the Romans , and is still of that repute , that it is the chief place of Gaol-delivery for the County . In Oxfordshire , Oxford besides the glory of its famous University , and the Magnificence of its Stately Colledges ; Here more frequent Parliaments have been call'd than in any place of England next to Westminster , and particularly the last Parliament call'd by his present Majesty , and held here in March , 1681. Here Maud the Empress was besieg'd by King Stephen , and with great difficulty made her escape in a disguise by night , and got over the Thames on the Ice . This place his late Majesty King Charles the first made his chief Head Quarters , during the greatest part of the Civil War between him and the Parliament , till the City was taken by Sir Thomas Fairfax , General of the Rebels Forces . It is moreover famous for being the birth-place of that Martial Prince King Richard the first , sirnamed Ceur de Lyon. Woodstock , besides that it hath been anciently a stately Palace belonging to the Kings of England , claims a particular place in the book of Fame upon several accounts . In the first place here it was that King Henry the second built a sumptuous Bower for his Paramour Rosamund Clifford , who for her singular beauty and in allusion to her name , was styl'd Rosa Mundi . Next , it was the Birth-place of Edward the Black Prince , lastly , in the Town of Woodstock was brought up and educated that most renowned of English Poets Sir Geoffry Chaucer . Islip cannot be forgotten so long as the memory of King Edward the Confessour lasts , who was here born . In Glocestershire the City of Glocester ( Glenum , Colonia Glenum ) eminent for its Cathedral , of which more elsewhere , is also not obscure in History . Here Earl Robert , Brother to the Empress Maud , was kept prisoner for some time ; but much more famous , ( if we may not say infamous ) was the keeping of this City by the Parliament-Forces under Collonel Massy against his late Majesty King Charles the First , and the great Battle here fought for the raising of the Siege . It was won from the Britains by Cheulin , King of the West-Saxons , An. 570. Here a Monastery of Nuns was founded by Osric King of Northumberland , of which three Queens of the Mercians were successively Prioresses , viz. Kineburg , Eadburg , and Eve. Here was born Robert called the Monk of Glocester , who flourish'd under Henry the second , and also Osbernus sirnam'd Claudianus , a Benedictine Monk. Alny Isle , a place near Glocester , where after several bloody Battles between King Edmund Ironside and Canutus the Dane , the matter was at last decided between them by single combat , and a division of the Kingdom made . Cirencester , or Circester , a place of memorable note , as won from the Britains by Cheulin the West-Saxon ; this City is doubtless Ptolomies Corinium , Antonines Durocornovium , & Giraldus his Vrbs Passerum , which last denomination it takes from a tradition of one Gurmund an African Tyrant who set it on fire , by tying to the tails of Sparrows certain combustible matter which he put fire to . It was won from the Britains by Cheulen King of the West-Saxons , next possess 't by the Mercians , lastly by the Danes under Gurmund , An. 879. But that which is to be said greatest of this for it's antiquity and remark is that , that it was anciently one of the principal residencies of the Romans , by whom it had been rais'd to a high pitch of magnificence and grandure . At Cicester was born Thomas Ruthal , Bishop of Durham . At Duresby , Edw. Fox Bishop of Hereford . At Cam near Duresby , Edward Trotman Judge of the Common Law , who was buried in the Temple Church May the 29th , An. 1643. At Todington , Richard Son to Sir William Tracy , who flourish'd under King Henry the second . This Richard wrote a Book entitled Preparatio ad Crucem , of much esteem in those times . At Yate , Thomas Neal Chanter to Bishop Bonner , he was eminent for Learning and flourish'd , An. 1576. At Westbury , John Carpenter Bishop of Worcester . At Sudely Castle Ralph Lord Sudely , Lord Treasurer and Knight of the Garter under Henry the sixth . Other Noted men of this Shire were Tideman de Winchcomb , the Kings Physitian , Abbot of Benle , Bishop first of Landaff , afterwards of Worcester . John Chedworth , Bishop of Lincoln . Anthony Fitz-Herbert , Judge of the Common Pleas. Thomas de la More , Knighted by King Edward the first ; he wrote the Character of King Edward the second , a Manuscript now in Oxford Library . Sir Thomas Overbury , Son to Sir Nicholas . William Winter , Vice-Admiral of England under Queen Elizabeth . John Sprint , John Workman , and Richard Capel . Tewksbury-field gave a very fatal blow to the House of Lancaster , An. 1471. in which Prince Edward was slain , and Queen Margaret taken Prisoner , together with the Duke of Somerset , the Earl of Devonshire , and others who were beheaded . Here was born the famous Alan of Tewksbury , who flourish'd under King John. Hales , a once flourishing Abby , but chiefly to be remembred for the birth of Alexander de Hales , sirnamed Dr. Irrefregabilis , who died An. 1245. In Worcestershire , Worcester the chief City , is questionless the ancient Branconium of Antoninus and Ptolomie , though since call'd by the Latins Vigornea , and by the Britains Caer Wrangon ; some think it to have been built by the Romans for a bound to the Britains . The Cathedral of St Mary in Worcester , besides the fame of its State and Beauty , is the Repository of the Bodies of King John , and Prince Arthur , Eldest Son to King Henry the seventh . But that which gives greatest renown to this City , is the memory of the happy preservation of his present Majesty , from being taken at the fatal Battle of Worcester , where the great Gallantry and Valour of His Majesty and his Party was utterly overpowr'd by the treble forces of the Usurpers . At Eversham , An. 1265. King Henry the third gain'd a most triumphant Victory over his Barons , with the slaughter of Simon Montford and seventeen Lords , and the taking of Humphry Bohun Prisoner . In Herefordshire the City of Hereford , besides that it is the Principal City , an Episcopal See , and noted for its Cathedral , is also memorable for the birth of Adam de Orleton Bishop of Hereford , Roger of Hereford a Writer of Astronomy , who flourish'd under Henry the second , An. 1170. John Davies of good repute for Poetry . And also Charles Smith Bishop of Glocester , in the reign of King James . Bradwardin Castle gave both birth and sirname to that Thomas de Bradwardin Arch-Bishop of Canterbury , who for his deep knowledge in Theologie , and skilful management of Disputations , is stiled the profound Doctor . At Ashperton was born John Grandison , Bishop of Exeter . Other memorable persons of this Shire were Robert Devereux Earl of Essex , great in deeds of Arms , and a person of great power and favour with his Prince , yet brought to an untimely end . Richard Hackluit , whose Book of Voyages is of good repute among the studious in Geography and History . William Lemster , a Franciscan and learned Doctor . John Guillam the noted Herald , whose Systeme of Heraldry is accounted the best that hath been written of this Subject . In Shropshire besides Shrewsbury the County Town , a noted Mart for Cloth and Frizes brought hither from Wales and sent to London and other parts of England ; there are very remarkable ruins of some ancient places which were certainly Towns or Cities of great spendour or resort , as Wrocckester Vriconium , the ancient Vsoconia , of which Okenyate is a small remainder . Oswaldstree retains its name from Oswald the 11th King of Northumberland , who was here slain in battel by Penda King of the Mercians . In Staffordshire the County Town Stafford , anciently Bitheny , from Bertelin a holy man , is said to have been built by King Edward the Elder , and was made a Corporation by King John. Tamworth , was doubtless anciently a place of more spendour and amplitude than at present , for here the Mercian Kings for a long time kept their Court. Litchfield though not the County Town , is yet the most eminent place of the County , as being a City and Episcopal See joyntly with Coventry , the chief Church and now Cathedral , was built by the Northumbrian King Oswin , upon the Conquest he gain'd over the Pagan Mercians ; and here Wulferre and Celred were interr'd ; it was for some time an Arch-bishoprick by the means of King Offa , at the request of Bishop Eadulph . At Bloreheath in this County , a cruel battel was fought between the two Houses of York and Lancaster , in which there fell on the Duke of York's side Sir Hugh Venables , Sir William Trowthec , Sir Richard Mollineux , and Sir J. Egerton , &c. with 2400 , and the two Sons taken prisoners of the Earl of Salisbury , General of the Yorkists . In Darbyshire besides Derby the County town there are memorable ; Ripton , Ripandunum , where was interr'd Ethelbald , the 9th King of the Mercians , who was slain at Egiswald by his Subjects , and whence Burthred the last King was expell'd by the Danes with his Queen Ethelwith . At Melburn John D. of Bourbon taken at Agin Court , was kept prisoner . Little Chester , an ancient Colony of the Romans , as appears by what Coins have been digg'd up thereabout . In Nottinghamshire , the County Town Nottingham , hath not wanted its share in the grand rencounters that have been in this Nation ; the Castle hereof was kept by the Danes against the Mercian King Burthred , and also against the English Saxon Monarchs , Elthelred and Alfred . At Newark in this County , King John who was poyson'd at Swinsted Abby , is said to have drawn his last breath . At Stoke near Symnel's party was utterly defeated , and his upholders John de la Pool Earl of Lincoln , Thomas Garadine Chancellour of Ireland , Fr. Lord Lovel and others were slain with 4000 of their men , and he himself taken prisoner , June 16th , An. 1487. At Mansfield was born the first Earl of Mansfield in Germany , one of the Knights of King Arthurs Round Table . In Warwickshire , the Town of Warwick is sufficiently fam'd in story over and above what is related of Guy of Warwick and his great adventures , and above all things the antiquity of the foundation is remarkable , if , as the tradition goes , it were built by Gurguntus , 375 years before the Nativity of our Saviour , however the Castle looks great , and savours much of Antiquity . Coventry being joyntly one Bishoprick with Leichfield , is memorable , besides the beauty of the brave action of Countess Godiva ( the wife of Leofrick the first Lord thereof ) well known in History . One of the Gates of this City is call'd Gofford Gate , which is the more notable by the Shield-bone of some very large beast , some say a wild Bore , slain by Guy of Warwick , some say an Elephant , with the snout whereof a pit was turn'd up , which is now Swanes Mear . At Backlow-hill in this County , Pierce Gavesto● was taken and beheaded by a party of the Nobles . At Wolny , An. 1469. King Edward the fourth his Forces were discomfited by his brother George Duke of Clarence , and Richard Earl of Warwick , and the King himself taken prisoner . In Northamptonshire , the County Town Northampton hath been the Subject of many warlike bronts , An. 1106. it suffered much by the contests of the Conquerours three Sons , Robert , William and Henry , An. 1263. being held by the Barons against King Henry the third ; it was taken by surprize and the Walls thrown down , An. 1459. King Henry the sixth was here taken prisoner by the Earl of Warwick and March , with the slaughter of Humphry Stafford Duke of Buckingham , John Talbot Earl of Shrewsbury , the Lords Egremont and Beaumont ; but the greatest misfortune that e're befel this Town was in this our Age , viz. An. 1675. when by an accidental Fire it was almost all burnt down to the ground , yet lay it not long buried in ruin , for it was immediately rebuilt and now appears in far greater splendour then ever . Here Earl Rivers , Father to Edward the fourth's Queen taken at Grafton , was beheaded by Robin of Risdal , together with his son John. Higham Ferrers in this County hath been honour'd with the birth of a very great Prelate of this Nation , viz. Henry Chichly , Cardinal and Arch-bishop of Canterbury in the Reign of King Henry the sixth . This Chichly was the founder of All-Souls Colledge in Oxford . Edgecot is signalis'd by a bloody battle fought near it on Danes More , July the 26th An. 1469. by Robin of Risdal and Sir John Coniers , against William Herbert Earl of Pembroke who , together with his Brother Richard , the Lord Rivers , the Queens Brother and Richard Woodvil , were taken prisoners , carried to Banbury , and beheaded . At Fotheringhay Castle Mary Queen of Scots was kept a long time prisoner and was at last beheaded . In Leicestershire , Leicester the County Town is principally famous by the tradition of its having been built by King Leir , great in the Catalogue of ancient British Kings , qu. Leir-cester . Lutterworth in this County ows its chief credit to the famous John Wickleff , who was Parson of this place in the reign of King Henry the 4th . Bosworth , a Town of no great note but for the memory of a most signal battle fought near it on Redemore , August 22d 1485. which put an end to all Controversies between the two houses of York and Lancaster , and in which fell that most Tyrannical of English Kings Richard the third , with four thousand of his men , and some say , though we are not bound to believe it , with the loss but of ten men on the Earl of Richmonds side . Cleycester of which there are now scarce any ruins remaining , was once a famous City in the West part of this Shire , and by the Romans call'd Bennone . In Rutlandshire some mention , as close adjoyning , though generally affirm'd to be situate rather in Lincolnshire , the Town of Stamford for the reputation of an ancient University , and said to have been founded by that Ancient British King Bladud , who found out the vertue of the Bath-Waters . In Lincolnshire , Lincoln the chief Town and only City of this Shire , is not only eminent for its antiquity , and for that it was once acounted one of the chiefest and the best traded Cities of England , and made by King Edward the third , the chief Mart for Lead , Wool , and Leather : But also for a great battle fought by Randolph Earl of Chester , and Robert Earl of Glocester against King Stephen , who was here taken prisoner , as also for the success of King Henry the third , who won it from the Barons , it is said to have had once fifty Parish Churches . Wainfleet had been doubtless a place of little note , but for the birth of William Wainfleet Bishop of Winchester , who living in the reign of King Henry the sixth , with whom he was great in favour , built here a Free-School , and founded Magdalen Colledge in Oxford . Grimsby likewise though an ancient Market Town , hath its chiefest repute from its being the Birth-place of Dr. Whitgift Archbishop of Canterbury in the reign of King James . Bullingbrook is enobled by the memory of the Birth of King Edward the first , and King Henry the fourth . Swinesstead Abby , the place where King John received from the hands of Simon a Monk thereof , that baleful potion that gave him his end at Lincoln . Harstill laments the death of that mir●our of that Conjugal love Queen Eleanor , the wife of King Edward the first . In the North-Riding of Yorkshire , York the chief of this Shire , and second City of England , was a Colony of the Romans , and a place of great account among them , and ever since to this day a splendid and flourishing City ; several Emperours here kept their Court , and particularly Severus had a Palace here in which he breathed his last . Here also Constantius Chlorus , the Father of Constantine the Great , is said to have departed this life ; nor does the death of these two Emperours more ennoble this Place , than the Birth of the Learned Alcuin , who was Tutour to the Emperour Charles the Great . Some write that it was first made an Episcopal See by the Emperour Constantius , but this is more certain , that it was made an Archbishoprick in the year of our Lord 625. At Leeds in the West-Riding , Oswye King of Northumberland encountred the united Forces of Ethelbald , Son of Oswald King of Northumberland , Ethelbert King of the East-Angles , and Penda King of the Mercians , to all whom he gave a mighty defeat ; slew Penda and Ethelbert , and put Ethelbald to flight . Selby , a Town of good trade and resort , but most memorable for the birth of King Henry the first ; this is by some accounted in Lincolnshire . Wakefield is a Town not more considerable for its Cloathing , than for the memory of a great battle fought between the Houses of York and Lancaster , besides a defeat given in the late Civil Wars to the Earl of Newcastles Forces by Sir Thomas Fairfax . Pomfret Castle was built by Hildebert de Lacy , a Norman . Hallyfax qu. Holy Hair anciently Horton , the birth-place of Joannes de Sacrobosco . Rotheram chiefly boasts in the birth of Thomas of Rotheram Archbishop of York . In the East-Riding Stanford Bridge from the battle , there fought , commonly called Battle-Bridge . Drifield is remembred by the Tomb of Alfred King of Northumberland here buried . Beverly though a Town of flourishing trade , is yet more fame-worthy , as the last retirement and place of decease of the Learned John Archbishop of York in the Reign of Oswick An. 721. who was thence sirnamed John de Beverly . Newborough Abby gives fame to it self by giving name to that Old English Historian William of Newborough . Kingston upon Hull , besides the repute of its Trade and Merchandise , is honour'd with the fame of being built by King Edward the first , nor are there wanting who will add the reputation of Andrew Mervail a Burgess of this place , of whom elsewhere . Exeter in Devonshire is both of sufficient antiquity , for the Castle call'd Rugemont , was once the Palace of the West - Saxon Kings , and afterwards of the Earls of Cornwal , and the Walls and Cathedral were built by King Athelstan ; and also memorable for several transactions ; here was born that most renowned Latin Poet of England , Josephus , hence sirnamed Iscanus , or Joseph of Exeter . At Plimouth , that great Honour of England for Sea affairs , Sir Francis Drake took Shipping for the Circum-navigation of the World An. 1577. Teignmouth is noted for the place of the Danes first arrival in England . Hubbleston , the Burial place of Hubba the Dane . Crediton the ancient Episcopal See of this County till it was removed to Exeter . Camelford in Cornwal is guess'd by those pieces of Armour that have been digged up thereabout , to have been the place of Battel where Mordred was slain , and where King Arthur received his mortal wound . Tintagel Castle gave birth to this great Miracle of British Valour , King Arthur . At Castle Denis the Ruins of those Trenches are yet to be seen where the Danes encamped at their first Invasion of this Land. At Caradoc was born John Trevisa , a learned Writer ; who died , Anno 1400. St. Germains , a place chiefly fame-worthy for having been an ancient Episcopal See. At Truroe was born John Arundel , a renowned Sea-man in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth . Bodmin , the next place to which the Bishop's Chair was removed ; from whence it was translated by King Edward the Confessor , to Exeter , where it hath remained ever since . This County hath brought forth several learned men , viz. Hucarius , sirnamed the Levite ; who flourished , Anno 1040. Simon Thurway ; who flourished , Anno 1201. John , Sir-named of Cornwal ; who flourished , Anno 1170. Michael Blawnpain ; who flourished , Anno 1350. Godfrey , Sir-named of Cornwall . In NORTHVMBERLAND , at a place called Otterburn , a great Field was fought between the English and Scots . Alnwick is of note for the mighty Victory which the English here gained over the Scots ; and for that the Earls of Northumberland in ancient times here kept their Court. Emildon brought forth that great Contradiction of his own name for Niceties of Wit and Subtilties in School-Philosophy . Duns Sir-named Scotus . In the Western parts of Northumberland are yet to be seen some parts of the Picts Wall. In WESTMORLAND , The Aballaba of Antoninus is thought to have been a place of very great note in the time of the Romans , by the antique Roman Coins that have been there found in digging , and the station of the Aurelian Maures : and it is still so considerable , that the Castle thereof is the place where the Assizes for the County are kept . Burgh , or Burgh under Stainmore , is undoubtedly the Ruins of an eminent Town , which was called Verterae ; and where a Roman Commander , in the declining time of the Empire , is said to have kept his station , with a Band of Directores . Ambleside ( Amboglana ) not far from Winander Meer , is judged the Ruins of some famous City of Roman foundation or improvement , both by the paved ways that lead to it , and the Coins of Roman Stamp oft digged up there . In CVMBERLAND , Carlisle ( Luguvallum , or Leucophibia of Ptolomie ) if not illustrious in its Original , for it is delivered to have been built by that Leil , who is great in the Catalogue of British Kings ; was , at least , a flourishing City under the Romans ; and being demolished by the Picts , and utterly ruined by the Danes , was restored by King William Rufus ( who also built there a Castle : ) and by King Henry the First made a Bishop's See. The Bishoprick of DVRHAM gained that Title and Privilege by the great fame and renown of St. Cuthbert ; for the interment of whom the Cathedral of Durham was first built by Bishop Aldwin ; and afterwards pulled down , and rebuilt by Bishop Careleph . The Tomb of this adored Saint was visited with great devotion by King Egfred , Alfred , Danish Guthrun , Edward and Athelstan : This City was by King William the Conqueror raised to a County Palatine . There is a place called Gallile in the West end of the Church , where is to be seen the Tomb of Venerable Beda . Binchester ( Benovium ) by the Coins there digged up , seems to have been a place of great account among the Romans . So likewise , Chester in the Street ( Condercum . ) At Nevil's Cross near Durham , the Scots were defeated by Queen Philippa , Wife to King Edward the First , by the Conduct of the Lords Piercy , Moubray and Nevil . In LANCASHIRE , Lancaster , the County-Town , gives Title of Family from John of Gaunt , Duke of Lancaster , to four Henries , Kings of England , viz. Henry the Fourth , Fifth , Sixth , and Seventh . Manchester , Mancunium , an ancient Fort and Station of the Romans . Rible-Chester , from Rhibel , a little Brook near Clithero , a Town of Antiquity and Station of the Romans , as appears by the pieces of Coin and Statues there found . But that which renders it most of memory is , that it hath been reported the richest Town of Christendom . Near Duglas , a small Brook not far from the Town of Wiggin , King Arthur is said by Ninius to have put the Saxons to flight . At Billangho , Anno 789. Duke Wade was put to flight by Ardulph King of Northumberland . In CHESHIRE , Chester is famous in many respects ; as , for its Minster , for its Entertainment of King Athelstan , who hence settihg forth in a Barge upon the River Dee , was rowed by Kennadie King of the Scots , Malcolm King of Cumberland , Macon King of Man , and several Princes of Wales . By being made so great a Principality by the Investiture of Hugh Lupus , by King William the Conqueror . The Minster of this City was built by Earl Leofric to the Honour of St. Werburga , repaired by Hugh Earl of Chester . And in this Minster was buried the Body of Henry the Fourth , Emperor of Germany . At Calvely was born Sir Hugh Calvely , a Soldier of great fame in the Reign of King Edward the Third . As likewise was Sir Robert Knowles of this Shire . Ecleston gave Birth to Thomas , thence Sirnamed Ecleston . Bunbury is noted by the birth of Robert Braffy ; who died , Anno 1558. Wrenbury boasts of George Patin , another learned Writer . Moreover , the World owes to this Shire several other great men ; viz. Sir Thomas Aegerton , Lord Keeper , Anno 1596. Sir Humphrey Starky , Sir Henry Bradshaw , Sir Randal Crew , and Sir Humphrey Davenport ; all grand Pillars of the Law. Ralph Ratcliff , a person eminent for Learning : and Captain John Smith , the first setler of the Plantation of New-England in the Reign of King James . In FLINTSHIRE , The Castle of Flint ; which was founded by King Henry the Second , and finished by King Edward the First , gave Reception to King Richard the Second when he came out of Ireland . In DENBYSHIRE , Denby was walled about , and fortified with a Castle by Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln , in the Reign of King Edward the First . In CAERNARVONSHIRE , Caernarvon is memorable , as having been raised by King E. 1. from the Ruins of that ancient City which is called by Antonine , Segontium and by Ninius , Caer-Custenith ; and where , as Matthew Westminster reports , was found the Body of Constantius , the Father of Constantine the Great , Anno 1283. In MERIONETHSHIRE , the principal Town Harlech is only worth memory for its stately Castle . In CARDIGANSHIRE , Cardigan the Shire-Town was walled about , and fortified with a Castle by Gilbert de Clare , who was Lord of the whole County by the Gift of King Henry the First . In BRECKNOCKSHIRE , Hay is remembred , by its Ruins , to have been once a place of Account ; for it is reported in History to have been ruined and demolished in the Rebellion of Owen Glendour . It is judged by the Coins there found to have been an ancient Seat of the Romans . Bealt ( Buelth ) the Buleum Silurum of Ptolomy is famed as the Seat of Aurelius Ambrose , who possessed the whole Country , and after gave it to Pascentius , Son of Vortiger . And likewise for the last Prince of the Britains , who was here by Treachery slain . But Brecknock , being now the fairest Town of the Shire , carries the Name and Primacy . In CAERMARDENSHIRE , Caermarden , the Shire-Town , the Maridunum of Ptolomy and Muridunum of Antonine is not so note-worthy for its large Castle and strong Wall , as for being the Birth-place of that most famous old British ( to give him the most favourable Title ) Prophet , Merlin . In GLAMORGANSHIRE , The chief Town , and Episcopal See , Landaff , with its Castle and Cathedral , is not so famous as the Town of Caerdiff ; as having been the Seat and Residence of that renowned Fitz-Hammond and his Norman Knights ; who , after the Conquest of Rhesus Prince of Wales , kept here his Court in the Reign of William Rufus , and built here a strong Castle , in the Hall whereof are yet to be seen the Ensigns of the said Fitz-Hammond and his Knights . In this Castle hath been for a long time , and is still kept the Audit for the Earl of Pembroke's Estate in Wales . In MONMOVTHSHIRE , Monmouth the County-Town is yet far more considerable upon several respects : first , as being delivered by Geraldus to have been the place where great King Arthur kept his Court. Next , as an Academy of Philosophy and Arts ; giving Residence to two hundred Scholars , and Birth to Amphibalus , whose Disciple , our great Protomartyr , St. Albanus was , and two other noble persons of our first Martyrs . And likewise as the Birth-place of that noble Prince King Henry the Fifth . In RADNORSHIRE , Radnor the ancient Magnos of Antonine , and the station of the Pacentian Regiment , and fortified with a Castle is yet inferior in beauty of Buildings to Prestain . In PEMBROKESHIRE , though Pembroke is the County-Town , yet St. Davids is the more remarkable , as being an Episcopal See , and once an Archbishoprick , translated from Isca Legionum by that great Archbishop Devi , whom we call St. David . In MONTGOMERISHIRE , Montgomery is remarkable for its pleasant scituation and strong Castle , and the Title of an Earldom , first given by King James , Anno 1605. to Philip , second Son to Henry Earl of Pembroke , and still continuing in his Grandchild Philip , now Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery . In the Isle of ANGLESY , Beaumorris is not more noted for being the principal Town , than for the frequent transportation of Passengers hence to Ireland , and the fame of having been built by King Edward the First . A true and perfect LIST OF THE NOBILITY OF ENGLAND : With their principal HOUSES , and the COUNTIES which they are in . DUKES . * HIS Royal Highness James Duke of York and Albany , and Earl of Vlster . His Seats , St. James's , Middlesex . Richmond , Surrey . The Dukedom of Cumberland extinct by the death of Prince Rupert . The Lord High Chancellor of England . The Lord High Treasurer of England . The Lord President of the Privy Council . The Lord Privy Seal . Henry Howard , Duke of Norfolk and Earl Marshal of England ; Earl of Arundel , Surrey , Norfolk and Norwich ; Baron Howard Moubray , Segrave , Brewes of Gower , Fitz-Alan , Clun , Oswaldestre , Maltravers , Graystock and Castle-Rising . His Seats , Norfolk House in Arundel Buildings , Middlesex . Arundel Castle , Sussex . Albury and Waybridge , Surrey . Duke's Place in Norwich , Norfolk . Work-Sop , Nottingham . Sheffeild-Mannor , York . Graystock Castle , and Drumbugh Castle , Cumberland . Charles Seymour Duke of Somerset , Marquess of Hertford , Viscount Beauchamp , and Baron Seymour . His Seats , Marlborough House , and Allington House , Wilts . * George Villers Duke , Marquess and Earl of Buckingham , Earl of Coventry , Viscount Villers , and Baron of Whaddon . His Seats , Wallingford House , near Whitehall , Middlesex . Colledge-Hill , London . Buckingham House , and Whadon , Buckingham . Bishop's Hill in the City of York , and Helmsey Castle , York . * Christopher Monk Duke of Albemarle , Earl of Torrington , Baron Monk of Poltheridge , Beauchamp and Teyes . His Seats . Nun Appleton , and Burley on the Hlil , Rutland . Garrenton , Leicester . Albemarle House , Middlesex . New Hall , Essex . Potheridge and Wenbury , Devonshire . Cletherow Castle , Lancaster . * James Scot Duke of Monmouth and Bucclugh , Earl of Doncaster and Dalkelth , Baron of Tindal , Winchester and Ashdale . His Seat , More Park , Hertford . So-Ho Square , Middlesex . * Henry Cavendish Duke , Marquess and Earl of Newcastle , Earl of Ogle , Viscount Mansfeild , Baron Ogle , Beutram and Bolsover . His Seats , Welbeck Abby , and Nottingham Castle , Nottingham . Bolsover Castle , Derby . Ogle Castle , Bothal Castle , Heple Tower , Northumberland . Slingsby Castle , York . Blore Hall , Stafford . Clerkenwell House , Middlesex . Barbara Villers Dutchess of Cleveland , and Baroness of Nonsuch . Her Seat , Cleveland House , near St. James's , Middlesex . Louise Querouale Dutchess of Portsmouth , Countess of Farnham , and Baroness of Petersfield . * Charles Lenox Duke of Richmond and Lenox , Earl of March , and Baron of Settrington . His Seat , In Scotland . Charles Fitz-Roy Duke of Southampton , Earl of Chichester , Baron of Newbury , and Heir in Succession to the Dutchy of Cleveland . His Seat , Nonsuch , Surrey . * Henry Fitz-Roy Duke of Grafton , Earl of Ewston , Viscount Ipswich , and Baron of Sudbury ; the Remainder , for want of Issue Male , to George Fitz-Roy , his younger Brother . His Seat , Grafton Regis , Northampton . * Henry Somerset Duke of Beaufort , Marquess and Earl of Worcester , Lord Herbert of Chepstoll , Ragland and Gower , Lord President of Wales , and the Marshes thereof . His Seats , Worcester House in the Strand , Middlesex . Badminton , and Wallaston's Grange , Gloucestershire . Troy House , Monmouth Castle , Ragland Castle , Chepstole Castle , Tintorne Abby , and Chepstow Grange , Monmouth . Swanzy Castle , Glamorgan . Crickhowell Castle , and Tretonor Castle , Brecknock . George Fitz-Roy Duke and Earl of Northumberland , Viscount Falmouth , and Baron of Pontefract . His Seats , Holme Pierpoint , Nottingham . Highgate , Middlesex . James Butler Duke of Ormond within the Kingdom of England , Earl of Brecknock , and Baron of Lantony in South - Wales , Lord Steward of the King's House , Duke , Marquess and Earl of Ormond in Ireland , Viscount Thurles , Baron of Arklow , and Lord of the Royalties and Liberties of the County of Tiperary in Ireland . MARQUESSES . CHarles Pawlet Marquess of Winchester , Earl of Wiltshire , and Lord St John of Basing . His Seats , Winchester House in Lincolns-Inn-Fields , Middlesex . Bolton Castle , and Bolton Hall , York . Basing House , Abbtston , and Hackwood , Southampton . Edington , Wilts . Hooke Castle , Dorset . The Marquisate of Dorchester lately extinct by the death of Henry Lord Pierpoint . George Savill Marquess , Earl and Viscount Hallifax , and Baron of England . His Seats , Rufford , Nottingham . Hallifax House in St James's Square , Middlesex . The Lord High Chamberlain of England . The Lord High Constable of England . The Earl Marshal of England . The Lord High Admiral of England . The Lord Steward of the King's Household . The Lord Chamberlain of the King's Houshold . EARLS . * AVbery de Vere Earl of Oxford , Viscount Bulbeck , Lord Sanford and Badlesmere . His Seat. Bentlie , Essex . Charles Talbut Earl of Shrewsbury , Waterford and Wenford in Ireland , Lord Talbot Strauge of Blackere , Gifford of Brimsfield , Furnival , Verdon and Lovetoft . His Seats , Grafton , Worcester . Pepperhill , Salop. Alton Castle , Stafford . Anthony Grey Earl of Kent , Lord Grey of Ruthin , Hastings and Valence . His Seats , Wrest House , and Harrold , Bedford . Burbage , Leicester . Goodrich Castle , Penyard Castle , and Ecleswald Castle , Hereford . Kent House in St. James's Square , Middlesex . William Richard George Stanly Earl of Darby , Lord Stanly Strange of Knockingmohun , and Lord of the Isle of Man. His Seats , Knowesley , Latham Hall , Greenhalgh , Burlco Abby , Cross Hall , Pilkington Stand , and Arnshead Tower , Lancaster . Betham Hall , Westmerland . John Manners Earl of Rutland , Lord Ross of Hamlake , Trusbut , Belvoir , and Lord Manners of Haddon . His Seats . Belvoire Castle , Lincoln and Leicester . Haddon , Darby . Theophilus Hastings Earl of Huntingdon , Lord Hastings , Hungerford , Botreaux , moe'ls , Newmarch and Molins . His Seats , Ashby de la Zouch , Leicestershire . Donington Park . * Willam Russel Earl of Bedford , and Baron of Thornhaugh . His Seats . Bedford House in the Strand , Middlesex . Bedford House in Exon , Devonshire . Woburn Abby , Bedford . Cheynes , Bucks . Thorney Abby , Cambridge . Philip Herbert , Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery , Lord Herbert of Cardiff , Ross of Kendal , Par , Marmion , of St. Quintin and Shurland . His Seats , Wilton , and Falston alias Fallersdown , Wilts . Cardiff Castle , and Caerphilly Castle , Glamorgan . Edward Clinton Earl of Lincoln , and Lord Clinton . His Seats , Sempringham , and Tattershall Castle , Lincoln . James Howard Earl of Suffolk , and Baron of Walden . His Seats , Chesterford , Essex . New-Market , Cambridge . Charles Sackvill Earl of Dorset and Middlesex , and Baron of Buckhurst . His Seats , Knoll , Kent . Copthall , Essex . Buckhurst , and Stoneland , Sussex . Milcot House , Warwick . James Cecil Earl of Salisbury , Viscount Cranburn , and Baron Essendyne , Under Age. His Seats , Salisbury House in the Strand , Middlesex . Hatfield , Hertford Castle , Bygrave , Chesthunt and Quickswood , Hertford . Cranborne House , Dorset . John Cecil Earl of Exeter , and Lord Burghley . His Seats , Burghley , Worthrop , and Wakerley , Northhampton . Snap , York . John Egerton Earl of Bridgwater , Viscount Brackley , and Baron of Ellesmere , His Seats . Ashdrid , Bucks and Hertford . Bridgwater House in Barbican , Middlesex . Ellesmere , Salop. Markingfield , York . Newborough , Stafford . Philip Sidney Earl of Leicester , Viscount Lisle , and Baron of Penshurst . His Seats , Leicester House in Leicester Fields , Middlesex . Penshurst , Kent . Coyty Castle , Glamorgan . James Compton Earl of Northampton , and Baron of Compton . His Seats , Castle Ashley , Northampton . Compton , Warwick . Cambray , Middlesex . Edward Rich E. of Warwick and Holland , Baron of Leez and Kensington , under age . His Seats , Warwick House in Holborn , and Holland House in Kensington , Middlesex . William Cavendish , Earl of Devon and Baron of Hardwick . His Seats . Hardwick , and Chatsworth , Derby . Rowhampton , Surrey . Latimers , Buckingham . William Fielding , aliter de Hapsburgh Earl of Denby and Desmond in Ireland , Viscount Fielding , Baron of Newnham , Padox , and St. Lis. His Seats , Newnham-Padox , Warwick . Martinsthorp , Rutland . John Digby Earl of Bristol , and Baron of Sherborn . His Seats , Sherborn Castle , Dorset . Clevedon Court , Somerset . Gilbert Holles Earl of Clare , and Baron of Haughton . His Seats , Haughton in the County of Nottingham . Clare-House in the Town of Nottingham . Clare House in Drury Lane. Middlesex . Oliver St. John Earl of Bullingbrook , and Lord St. John of Bletsho . His Seats , Bletsho , and Melchborn , Bedford . Charles Fane Earl of Westmerland , Baron Le Despencer and Bergherst . His Seats , Apethorp , and Sewlhay Lodge , Northampton . Robert Mountague Earl of Manchester , Viscount Mandevile , and Baron of Kimbolton . His Seats , Kimbolton Castle , Huntington . Leez Priory , Essex . Thomas Howard Earl of Berkshire , Viscount Andover , and Baron of Charlton . His Seat , Charlton , Wilts . * John Sheffeild Earl of Mulgrave , and Baron of Butterwick . His Seats , Mulgrave Castle , York . Mulgrave House near White-Hall ; Middlesex . Normanby , Lincoln . Thomas Savage Earl Rivers , Viscount Colchester , and Baron Darcy of Chich in Essex . His Seats , Clifton alias Rock Savage , and Frodsham Castle , Chester . St. Osith , Essex . Rivers House in Queen-street , Middlesex . Robert Bertie Lord Great Chamberlain of England , Earl of Lindsey , and Baron Willoughby of Eresby . His Seats , Grimsthorp , and Earesby , Lincoln . Chelsey , Middlesex . Havering , Essex . Henry Mordant Earl of Peterborough , and Baron of Turvey . His Seats , Turvey , Bedford . Drayton , Luswick alias Lowick , Thrapston , and Sudborow , Northampton . Thomas Grey Earl of Stamford , and Lord Grey of Grooby . His Seats , Broadgate , and Grooby , Leicester . Heneage Finch Earl of Winchelsy , and Viscount Maidston . His Seats , Estwell , Wy Court , and Moat , Kent . Robert Pierrepont Earl of Kingston upon Hull , Viscount Newmarket , and Baron Pierrepont of Holm Pierrepont . His Seat. Holm Pierrepont , Nottingham . Charles Dormer Earl of Carnarvan , Viscount Ascot , and Baron of Wing . His Seats . Wing , and Ethrop , Buckingham . Philip Stanhop Earl of Chesterfield , and Baron of Shelford . His Seats , Bretby , Derby . Shelford , Nottingham . Bockton Malherb , Kent . Richard Tufton Earl of Thanet , and Baron Tufton . His Seats , Thanet House in Aldersgate-Street , Middlesex . Hoathfeild , and Sylom , Kent . Scipton Castle , York . Appleby Castle , Brough Castle , Brougham Castle , and Pendragon Castle , Westmerland . Part of Bolbrook , Sussex . * William Wentworth Earl of Stafford , Viscount Wentworth , and Baron of New Marsh , Oversley and Raby . His Seats , Wentworth Wood-House , Fryar House , Tankersly , Tinsly , and Hooton Robert , York . Stowel , Gloucester . Robert Spencer Earl of Sunderland , and Baron of Wormleighton . His Seats , Althrop , Northampton . Wormleighton , Warwick . Robert Leake Earl of Scarsdale . His Seat , Sutton , Derby . * Henry Jermin Earl of St. Albans , and Baron of Almondsbury . His Seats , St. Alban's House in St. James's Square , Middlesex . Rushbrooke Hall , Suffolk . Byflet , Surrey . Thafts , Norfolk . Edward Montague Earl of Sandwich , Viscount Hinchingbrook , and Baron of St. Neots . His Seat , Hinchingbrook , Huntington . Henry Hyde Earl of Clarendon , Viscount : Cornbury , and Baron of Hindon . His Seats , Cornbury , Oxford . Swallowfield , Berks. Arthur Capel Earl of Essex , Viscount Maldon , and Baron of Hindon . His Seats , Cashiobury , and Hadham Hall , Hertford . Essex House in St. James's Square , Middlesex . Robert Brudenell Earl of Cardigan , and Baron of Stanton . His Seats , Dean , Northampton . Cardigan House in Lincolns-Inn Fields , Middlesex . Stanton Brudenel , Leicester . Arthur Annesly Earl of Anglesey , and Baron of Newmarket Pagnel in England ; Viscount Valencia , and Baron of Mount Norris in Ireland . His Seats , Anglesey House in Drury-Lane , Middlesex . Blechington , Oxford . Park-Hall , Essex . Farnborough Place , Southampton . Totteridge , Hertford . John Greenvill Earl of Bath , Viscount Lansdown , and Baron of Kilhampton and Bideford . His Seats , Stow , Wolston , Stanbury , Clifton , and Lanow , Cornwall . Bideford , Devon. Charles Howard Earl of Carlisle , Viscount Morpeth , and Baron d'Acres of Gilesland . His Seats , Naywort alias Noward Castle , Cumberland . Hilderskelfe Castle , and Grimthorp , York . Morpeth Castle , Northumberland . William Craven Earl of Craven , Viscount Craven of Vffington , and Baron of Hamsted Marshal . His Seats , Craven House in Drury-Lane , Middlesex . Hamsted Marshal , and Ashton Park , Berks. Combe , Warwick . Winwick , Northampton . Caversham , Oxford . Lenwich , VVorcester . Stoke Castle , Salop. Robert Bruce Earl of Ailesbury and Elgin , Baron of Wharton and Kinloss . His Seats , Ailesbury House in St John's , Middlesex . Ampthil , and Clophil , Bedford . Wharlton Castle , and Jervaux Abby , York . Richard Boyle Earl of Burlington and Corke in Ireland , and Baron Clifford of Lawnsborough . His Seats , Burlington House , Middlesex . Lawnsborough , Bolton , and Barden Tower , York . * Henry Bennet Earl and Baron of Arlington , Viscount Thetford , and Lord Chamberlain of the King's House . His Seats , Ewston , Suffolk . Arlington House in St. James's Park , Middlesex . Anthony Ashley Cooper Earl of Shaftsbury , Baron Ashley of Wimborn St Giles , and Cooper of Paulet . His Seats , Wimborn St. Giles , Dorset . Kockborn House , Southampton . William Herbert , Earl and Baron of Powis . His Seats , Powis Castle , and Buttington , Montgomery . Powis House in Lincolns-Inn Fields , Middlesex . Edward Henry Lee , Earl of Lichfield , Viscount Quarrendon , and Baron of Spelsbury . His Seats , Dichley , and Lees Rest , Oxford . Quarrendon , Buckingham . * Thomas Osborn Earl of Danby , Viscount Latimer , and Baron of Kiveton . His Seats , Kiveton , Thorp Hall , Wales Hall , Harthil Hall , and Wimbledon , York . Thomas Lennard Earl of Sussex , and Baron d' Acre . His Seats , Herst Monceux , Sussex . Kirk Oswald , and d'Acre Castle , Cumberland . Chevening , Kent . Lewis Duras Earl of Feversham , and Baron of Holdenby . His Seat , Holdenby , Northampton . Charles Beauclair Earl of Burford , and Baron of Heddington . His Seats , Burford House in Windsor , Berks. Bestwood , Nottingham . Charles Gerrard Earl of Macclesfield , and Lord Gerrard of Brandon . His Seats , Thornhill , York . Gawsworth , and Aldford , Chester . Halsal , Lancaster . Macclesfield House in Westminster , Middlesex . John Roberts Earl of Radnor , Viscount Bodmin , and Baron of Truro , and Lord President of the Privy Council . His Seats , Lauhydroek , and Truro , Cornwall . William Paston Earl and Viscount Yarmouth , and Baron of Paston . His Seats , Oxnead Hall , and Paston Hall , Norfolk . George Berkeley Earl of Berkeley , Viscount Durseley , and Baron of Berkeley Castle . His Seats , Berkeley Castle , Gloucester . Berkeley House near St. John's , Cranford , Middlesex . Durdence , Surrey . Edward Conway Earl of Conway , Viscount Conway and Killultagh , and Baron of Ragley . His Seats , Ragley , and Luddington , VVarwick . Conway House in Queen-Street , Middlesex . Eliz. Lady d'Acre Countess of Shippey . Heneage Finch Earl of Nottingham , and Baron of Daventry . His Seat. A fair House near Kensington , Middlesex . Lawrence Hide Earl of Rochester , Viscount Hide . James Bertie Earl of Abbington , and Lord Norris . His Seats , Ricot , and Chesterton , Oxford . Wytham ; Berks. Lindsey House in Westminster , Middlesex . Thomas Windsor Earl of Plimouth , and Baron of Windsor . His Seats , Hewel Grange , VVarwick . Flanchford , Surrey . Edward Wriothesley Noell Earl of Ganesborough , Viscount Campden , and Baron of Ridlington and Limington . His Seats , Campden House in Kingsington , Middlesex . Campden House in Campden , Gloucester . Exton , Brooke , and North-Luffenham , Rutland . Coniers Darcy Earl of Holderness in the parts of Eastriding , and Lord Coniers and Meynell ▪ His Seats . Hornby Castle , Patrick Brompton . Hackforth , Auderly le Miers , York . VISCOUNTS . LEicester Devereux Viscount Hereford . His Seats , Christchurch in Ipswich , Sudburn Hall , Soham Lodge , Suffolk . Francis Brown Viscount Mountague . His Seats , Battel-Abby , Poynings , Sussex . William Fiennes Viscount and Baron Say and Seal . His Seats , Broughton , Shutford , and North-Newton , Oxford . Over-Norton , Gloucester . Thomas Bellasyse Viscount Faulconberg of Henknowle , and Lord Faulconberg . His Seats , Newbrough Abby , Coxwold Hall , Oulston Hall , Aldwark , Murton , York . Henknowle , Durham . Faulconberg House near Pall-mall , and Sutton Court , Middlesex . Charles Viscount Mordant of Avelon , and Baron of Rygate . His Seats , Mordant House in Parsons Green , Middlesex . Rygate , Surrey . Francis Viscount Newport of Bradford , and Baron of High-ercall . His Seats , Highercall and Eyton , Salop. Sarah Viscountess Corbet of Linchalde . Horatio Viscount Townsend of Raynham , Baron of Lynn-Regis . His Seats , Raynham Hall , and Stifkey Hall , Norfolk . Denham Hall , Suffolk . Christopher Viscount Hatton of Gretton , Baron of Kerby . His Seat , Kerby , Northampton . BARONS . HEnry Howard Lord Moubray , eldest Son of the Duke of Norfolk , and bearing the Title of Earl of Arundel . His Seat. Castle-Rising , Norfolk . Elizabeth Baroness Percy , sole Daughter and Heiress of Jocelin late Earl of Northumberland , first married to Henry Earl of Ogle , only Son of Henry Cavendish Duke of New-castle , now to the Duke of Somerset . Her Seats , Northumberland House in the Strand , and Sion House , Middlesex . Petworth Place , Sussex . Alnewick Castle , Warkworth Castle , and Prudhoe Castle , Northumberland . Cockermouth Castle Cumberland . Wressel Castle , York . George Nevil Lord Abergevenny , Under Age. His Seats , Eridge , Sussex . Abergevenny Castle , Monmouth . James Touchet Lord Audley , Earl of Castlehaven in Ireland . Charles West Lord la Warr. His Seat , Whorwell , Southampton . Thomas Parker Lord Morley and Mounteagle . His Seat , Hornby Castle , Lancaster . Robert Sherley Lord Ferrers , Baron of Chartley. His Seats , Chartley Castle , Stafford . Staunton Harrold , and Ragdale , Leicester . Ettington , Warwick . Astwell , Northampton . Shirley , Derby . Charles Mildmay Lord Fitz-Walter , under age . His Seats , Moulsham Hall , Moulsham Friery , and Bishops Hall , Essex . Henry Yelverton Lord de Grey , under age . His Seat , Easton Mauduit , Northampton . Frances Lady Ward , Baroness Dudly . William Lord Stourton , Baron of Stourton . His Seat , Stourton Castle , Wilts . Coniers Darcy , Lord Coniers . His Seats . Aston , Aughton , Wales Manor , Hardwick , Yorkshire . Henry Sandys Baron Sandys . His Seat , Mottessont , Southampton . Thomas Lord Cromwell , Baron of Oakham in England , Earl of Arglas , and Viscount Lecale in Ireland . His Seat , Throwley , Stafford . Ralph Lord Eure , Baron of Witton . His Seat , Easby Hall , York . Philip Lord Wharton , Baron of Wharton . His Seats , Wharton Hall , Westmorland . Aske , Healaugh Mannor , and Woburn , York . Overwinchendon House , Buckingham . Thomas Lord Willoughby of Parham . William Lord Paget , Baron of Baudesert . His Seats , Beaudesert , and Seaney Park , Stafford . Drayton , Middlesex . Francis Lord Howard of Effingham . Charles Lord North and Grey of Rolleston . His Seats , Kirtling alias Catlidge . Cambridge . Tostock Place , Suffolk . Rolleston , Stafford . Towting Graveney , Surrey . James Brugges Lord Chandos . His Seats , Wilton , Aconbury , and Dewswell , Hereford . Robert Carey , Lord Hunsdon . William Lord Petre , Baron of Writtle . His Seats , Thorndon , Writtle Park , Ingerston Hall , and Cranham Park , Essex . Digby Lord Gerard , Baron of Gerards Bromley , under age . His Seats , Gerards Bromley , Sandon , and Wislow Bridge , Stafford . Dutton , Chester . Woodacre Hall , Ashton Hall , and Shorton Hall , Lancaster . Henry Lord Arundel , Baron of Wardour . His Seat , Wardour Castle , Wilts . Christopher Roper , Lord Tenham . His Seat. Linksted Lodge , Kent . Catherine Lady O Brian Baroness Clifton , Daughter of the Lord Aubigny , first married to the Lord O Brian Son to the Earl of Twomond , Afterwards to Sir Joseph Williamson . Foulk Grevill Lord Brooke , Baron Brooke of Beauchamp's Court. His Seats , Warwick Castle , Knowll , and Beauchamp's Court , Warwick . Breamore , Southampton . Hackney , Middlesex . Edward Lord Montague , Baron of Boughton . His Seats , Boughton , and Barnwell Castle , Northampton . Ford Lord Grey , Baron Grey of Wark . His Seats , Wark Castle , Chillingham Castle , Dunstaburgh Castle , and Horton Castle , Northumberland . Gosfield Hall , and Epping Place , Essex . Vp Park , Sussex . Charterhouse Close , Middlesex . Robert Leake , Lord Deincourt , and Heir of the Earl of Scarsdale . His Seat , Sutton , Derby . John Lord Lovelace , Baron of Hurley . His Seats , Hurley , Berks. Water-Eaton , Oxfo●● John Lord Paulet , Baron of Hinton St. George , under age . His Seats , Hinton St. George , Court of Ewick , Lenn Court , and Walton , Somerset . Buckland , Dorset . William Lord Maynard , Baron of Eastaines in England , and Wicklow in Ireland . His Seat , Easton Lodge and Achdon Place , Essex . George Lord Coventry Baron of Alesborough . His Seats , Crombe Court , Alesborough , Severnstoke , and Feckenam Lodge , Worcester . Corse Court and Cockbury , Glocester . William Lord Howard Baron of Escrick . His Seats , Wheldrake , York . Tolesbury , Essex . Charles Lord Mohun of Okehampton . Under Age. His Seat , Boconock , Cornwall . Henry Lord Herbert Baron of Cherbury in England , and of Castle Island in Ireland . His Seats , Llymore Lodge and Llyslin , Mongomery . St. Julians , Monmouth . Chirbury , Salop. Thomas Lord Leigh Baron of Stoneley . His Seats , Stoneley and Fletchamsted , Warwick . Hamstal Ridware , Stafford . William Lord Byron Baron of Rochdale . His Seats , Newsted Abby , Buluel Park , and Linby , Nottingham . Richard Lord Vaughan Baron of Emlyn in South Wales , of Carbery , and Baron of Molingavin in Ireland . His Seats , Golden Grove and Emlyn , Carmarthen . Francis Smith Lord Carington Baron of Wotton in England , and Viscount Carrington of Barfore in Ireland . His Seats , Wotton-wawen and Aln Lodge , Warwick . Ledwell , Oxford . Ashby-folvile , Leicester . William Lord Widdrington Baron of Blankney . His Seats , Widdrington Castle , Northumberland . Blankney , Lincoln . Edward Lord Ward , Baron of Birmingham . His Seat , Dudley Castle and Hinley , Stafford . Tho. Lord Culpepper Baron Thoresway , His Seats , Leeds Castle and Greenway Court , Kent . Jacob Lord Astley Baron of Reading . His Seats , Allington Castle and Maidstone Place , Kent Charles Lucas Baron of Shenfield . John Lord Bellasyse Baron of Worleby . His Seats , Worleby , Lincoln . Whitton , Middlesex . Edward Watson Lord Rockingham . His Seats , Rockingham Castle , VVarmington , and Stoke Albony , Northampton . Great Gidding , Huntington . Rob. Sutton Lord Lexington , Under Age. His Seats , Averham , and Kilham . Nottingham . Marmaduke Lord Langdale , Baron of Holme . His Seats , Holme in Spalding-more and Dalton , York . Charles Lord Berkley Baron of Stratton . Under Age. His Seats , Stratton House alias Berkley House in Piccadilly , and Twickenham , Middlesex . Charles Lord Cornwallis Baron of Eye . His Seats , Brome-Hall , and Carlford Hall , Suffolk . VVilton Castle , York . George Booth Lord de la mer. His Seat , Dunham Massey , Chester . Thomas Lord Crew Baron of Stean. His Seats , Sean , Northampton . Lawfield-Hall , Essex . John Lord Freschevile Baron of Staveley . His Seat , Staveley , Derby . Richard Lord Arundel Baron of Trerise . His Seat , Trerise , Cornwall . James Lord Butler Baron of More-park in England , and Earl of Ossery in Ireland . Under Age. Hugh Lord Clifford , Baron of Chudleigh , Under Age. His Seats , Chudleigh , Devon. Cannington , Somerset . Richard Lord Butler , Baron of VVeston in England , and Earl of Arran in Ireland . His Seat , Leyghton , Huntington . Susan Lady Bellasyse , Baroness of Osgodby . Her Seat , Osgodby , Lincoln . Richard Lord Lumly , Viscount Lumly of Waterford in Ireland . George Lord Carteret . Under Age. John Bennet , Baron Ossulston . His Seat , Ossulston , Middlesex . VVilliam Lord Allington , Baron VVimondly , Constable of the Tower of London . Thomas Thinne , Baron Thinne of VVarmister , and Vicount VVeimouth . His Seat , Long Leat , VVilts . Ralph Stowel , Baron Stowel of Somerton . His Seat , Somerton , Somersetsh . THE ARCH-BISHOPS AND BISHOPS . DOctor William Sancroft , Archbishop of Canterbury . His Seats , Lambeth-house , and Croydon Palace , Surrey . Dr. Stern , Archbishop of York . His Seat , Dr. Henry Compton , Bishop of London . His Seats , London-house , and Fulham-house , Middlesex . Dr. Nathaniel Crew , Bishop of Durham . His Seats , Durham Palace , and Aukland Castle , Durham . Dr. George Morley , Bishop of Winchester . His Seats , Farnham Castle , Surrey . Wolv●sey House in Winchester , Southampton . Chelsey House , Middlesex . Dr. Herbert Crofts , Bishop of Hereford . His Seat , Hereford Palace , Hereford . Dr. Seth Ward , Bishop of Salisbury . His Seat , Salisbury , Wilts . Dr. Edward Rainbow , Bishop of Carslile . His Seat , Rose Castle , Cumberland . Dr. John Dolben , Bishop of Rochester . His Seat , Bromley House , Kent . Dr. Anthony Sparrow , Bishop of Norwich . His Seats , Norwich Palace , and Ludham Hall , Norfolk . Dr. Peter Gunning , Bishop of Ely. His Seats , Ely-house in Holborn , Middlesex . Ely Palace in Ely , and Wisbich Castle in Wisbich , Cambridge . Dr. Thomas Wood , Bishop of Lichfield and Coventry . His Seats , Lichfiield Close , and Eccleshall Castle , Stafford . D. Guy Carlton , Bishop of Chichester ▪ His Seat , Chichester Palace , Sussex . Dr. Robert Frampton , Bishop of Glocester . His Seat , Glocester Palace , Glocester . Dr. Peter Mew , Bishop of Bath and Wells . His Seats , VVells Palace , and Banwell , Somerset . Dr. John Pierson , Bishop of Chester . His Seats , Chester Palace , Chester . VVigan , Lancaster . Dr. Humphry Lloyd , Bishop of Bangor . His Seat , Bangor Palace , Carnarvon . Dr. William Lloyd , Bishop of Peterborough . His Seats , Peterborough Palace , and Castor , Northampton . Dr. Thomas Barlow , Bishop of Lincoln . His Seats , Bugden , Huntington . Lincoln Palace , Lincoln . Dr. James Fleetwood , Bishop of Worcester . His Seats , VVorcester Palace in VVorcester , and Hartlebury Castle , VVorcester . Dr. John Fell , Bishop of Oxford . His Seat , Cuddesden , Oxon. Dr. Thomas Lampleugh , Bishop of Exon , His Seat , Exon Palace in Exeter , Devon. Dr. VVilliam Thomas , Bishop St. Davids . His Seat , Abergwilly , Carmarthen . Dr. VVilliam Gulston , Bishop of Bristol . His Seat , Bristol Palace , Somerset . Dr. VVilliam Beaw , Bishop of Llandaff . His Seats , Matherne Palace , Monmouth . Llandaff Palace , Glamorgan . Dr. VVilliam Lloyd , Bishop of St. Asaph . His Seat , St. Asaph , Flint . A SUPPLEMENT TO The Foregoing Work. I. To the Arable and Pasturage of England . ANGLESEY yields such plenty of Wheat , that it is call'd the Mother of Wales . In Shropshire upon Clee-hill is the best Barley in the Shire . Sheep in the Vale of Buckinghamshire have a fine soft wool . East Kent for Corn : The Weald for Wood , Rumney for Meadow . Tenham for Orchard ; Sheppey and Reculver for Wheat ; Thanet for Barley . Hedcorn for fat and large Capons . To the other Productions . DOctor Caius the Founder of Caius Colledge in Cambridge , in a learned Treatise of his , divides the Canes Britanici , first into the Generosi , Rustici & Degeneres ; the Generosi he subdivides into the Venatici Aucupatorii & Delicati : the Venatici first into the threefold S●gax or Hound , viz. the Terrarius or Terrare , the Leverarius or Harrier , the Sanguinarius or Bloodhound , next into the Agasaeus or Gasehound , the Leporarius or Greyhound , the Levinarius s●u Lorarius , the Liviner or Liemmer , the Vertragus or Tumbler The Aucupatorii into the Hispani●lus or Spaniel , the Index or S●tter , the Aquaticus or Water-Spaniel , the Inquisitor or Finder . Of the Delicati he makes only one sort , viz. the Meliteus seu Fotor , the Spaniel Gentle or Comforter . The Rusti●i into the Pastoralis or Shepherds Dog , the Vilaticus seu Cathenarius , Mastiff or Bandog . The D●generes into the Admonitor or Wap , the Ve●sator or Turnspit , the Sal●ator or Dancer . About Sureby in Yorkshire are great store of Goats , and on the Hills towards Lancashire Goats and Deer . In Cornwall on the Cliffs by the Sea-side are Marterns , Otters , Badgers , Foxes in abundance . In the Isle of Wight are store of Goats , Rother-cattle ; Horses low and small but hardy ; and in most parts of Hantshire Conies and H●res particularly abound . In the River Tiver in Cardiganshire the Beaver hath been found . In Devonshire there are three sorts of Curlicus ; the first as big as a Muscovie Duck , the second as big as an ordinary Duck , the third somewhat less . The Sanderlin ; a Bird about the bigness of a Snipe , of the same make , only of a lighter Grey . In Lincolnshire and Yorkshire , near the Sea , are store of Reeves , Roughs , Gulls , and a Bird called a Stint , somewhat bigger than a Lark . Puffins and Burranets hatch in the holes of the Sea-Cliffs . Woodcocks , Sparhawks , and Fieldfares take Cornwall in their way to warmer Climates . There is also in those parts a Bird called a Spray , thought to be the Halyaetus of Pliny . Lincolnshire abounds with God wits and Knots , besides Pewets and Dottrels aforementioned . And about Barton upon Humber is plenty of Mallards . In the Calf of Man are Puffins , and also Barnacles . On the Shore of Norfolk Hawks are are sometimes taken . Turkies , or Guiny-Cocks are said to have been first brought into England , Anno 15 H. 8. The Shoat is a Fish proper to Cornwall and Devonshire : where also , the Peal , Trout and Salmon breed in fresh Waters , but live in Salt. Sharks breed and live in the Rivers . In Norfolk , the River Yare , by Norwich , is full of a Fish called a Ruff , very rarely found in other Rivers . In Worcestershire , The River Severn affords store of fresh Water Lampreys . About Kilgarran in Pembrokeshire , and in the River Dee in Cheshire , there is great store of Salmons . Also Vsk and Wye in Monmouthshire , are full of Salmons and Trouts . In a great Pool , near Balu in Merionethshire , there breeds a Fish called a Guinnind , never seen in Dee . As the Pool wants Salmons , which Dee abounds in . Upon the Sea-Coast of this Shire are store of Herrings . Carps are generally concluded to have been first brought in here in King Henry the Eighth's Reign , with several other things , unknown here before . Near Bremicham in Warwickshire , are Iron-Mines ; the convenience whereof ▪ possibly , gave beginning to the Smiths Trade in Bremicham . The same may be said of those near Sheffield in Yorkshire . At the Head of the River Istwyd in Darbyshire , are Veins of Lead . In the Rocks , at the Lands End of Cornwall , are Veins of White-Lead , and Brass . In the West part of the Bishoprick of Durham are Iron-Mines . thereabout also , are Cole-Mines ; as likewise , at Mengerfield and Westerley in Gloucestershire . Nor is Pembrokeshire destitute of Pit-Coal and Marl. Some parts of Lincolnshire afford Alabaster , and Plaister of Paris . In Flintshire Mill-stones are frequent . And in the Isle of Anglesey , Mill-stones , Grind-stones , and a kind of Earth , out of which Allum and Copperas are extracted . And upon the Shores of Shepey Island , Stones , from which are drawn Brimstone and Copperas . In some parts of Derbyshire there is Lime-stone . As also , very good in Oxfordshire , near Holton ; about Hasely , and between that and Little Milton . But Barrow in Leicestershire is accounted the place of England for that sort of Stone . At Tormanton , by Sudbury , in Gloucestershire , is a Quarry of Free-stone . And at Eglestone , in the Bishoprick of Durham , a Marble Quarry . On Goldcliff in M●nmouthshire , there is found a Stone of a Yellowish or Golden Colour . And about Brotherton in Yorkshire , a yellow Marle , very good to fertilize the Earth . Upon Dartmore Rocks in Devonshire , there is some quantity , of the Magnes , or Load-stone . Not to insist upon the several sorts of Ochre , Fullers Earth , Chalk and Gypsum , at Shotover , Ga●sington , Witney , and other parts of Oxfordshire ; the Umber at Bladen Quarry , the Caeruleum , or Native Blue , at Blounds Court ; the yellowish coloured Earth , with glittering Sparks , about Teynton ; the Earth called Lam , at Teinton , fit for Earthen Floors ; the Terra Lapidosa , of the colour of the Turkish Rusma , in the Quarries about Thame ; the Gold gritty Clay , or Pyrites aureus at Hampton-Gay ; the white Clay at Shotover , used for Tobacco-pipes , and equal to Tripela for Medals , Galgils , Antiques , and polishing of Silver ; the soft Stone called Maume , near Tetsworth ; the Golden-coloured Marchasite , haply the Pyrites of Kentmanus at Nettlebed and Henly . All mentioned by Doctor Plat , in his learned and most useful Description of Oxfordshire . In Cornwall , as well as on the Cliffs between Deal and Dover , great store of Samphire grows ; which being pickled , makes an excellent Sallad . And also of Eringus , or Sea-Holly ; whose Roots Candied , are reckoned amongst the most acceptable of Sweet-Meats , in regard of their , restorative vertue . And in the most boggy Grounds of this County there is store of a Plant called Ros Solis . And upon the Cliffs , and such like Maritine parts , abundance of Wild Hisop , Rosemary , Marjoram , Sage , Pelamountain . There are likewise in this County very good Chesnuts ; and a kind of Berry , called Whurts , of two sorts . And , for Garlic , doubtless , this County abounds in general with this sort of Plant , for that it is much eaten by the Cornish men ; whose Health and Longaevity is , by many , imputed to their frequent feeding upon this Country man's Treacle , as they call it . Dorcetshire , especially the Isle of Portland , or thereabouts , produces a rare sort of Plant , which is accounted much of the same nature , if not the same , with that which the Greeks called Isidis Plocamos . But , particularly , Birdport , in this Shire , is noted for the excellent Hemp growing thereabout . At Dengeness in Kent , Holly Trees grow thick for a Mile in length , among Beech and Pebbles . Axholm in Shropshire is noted for a sort of Shrub called Galls , growing peculiarly thereabout . About Keinsham in Somersetshire , great store of Percepier , or Parsely Break Stone . Neither is Fern so inconsiderable a Plant , but that Cambden takes notice of abundance of it growing about Reading . But in Sabernacle Forest in Wiltshire , there is a sort of Fern more remarkable than ordinary , by reason of the sweetness of its scent . Several Fruits , and Flowers , and other Plants have not been known in England , till of late Ages . First Pippins and Cherries , as hath been already intimated , and as Mr. Leonard Mascal of Plumstead King Henry the Eighth's-Gardiner observes , after that , Apricots , about the fifteenth of the said King's Reign . And about the same time , Hops from Artois . Some say Apricots , Malacotoons and Muscmelons came in about the twentieth of Queen Elizabeth . Others say , Melon-seeds were first sent out of Italy , to King James , and the Stem of a yellow Rose , which flowers from May till Christmas . Choice Flowers were first in use and reputation at Norwich , by means of the Dutch , who first brought them thither . The latest are Gillyflowers and Carnations , the Province and Red Rose , and that of Jericho : Also the Tulip ( perhaps the Lilly , of the Valley ) and the White-Chappel Flower . Moreover , Artichoaks and Asparagus , Oranges and Lemons , are but of late date here . As likewise , both English and Smirna Corants ; perhaps the soonest of them about an hundred and fifty years since . Tobacco was first brought into England by Sir Walter Raleigh , though never thought fit to be planted . About the same time came in Sugar . The first planting of Mulberries was about Anno 1609. 〈◊〉 Flax , Staffordshire , Shropshire , and the Isle of Man are particularly mentioned ; and the last for Hemp. Also Tewksbury in Gloucestershire . To the Wonders of England . THE Monument of Stones at Stanton Drew , near Pensford , in Somersetshire , deserves a particular description , but much more that of Aubury in Wiltshire , about four Miles West from Marleborough . About this Village is cast a Ditch of a prodigious depth ; viz. as deep as that of Winchester , which is the deepest that hath been observed : and , not without ( as usually ) but within this Ditch is raised a very high Bank , or Trench , not in a form absolutely Circular , but somewhat near . Within the Trench , and answerable to the form thereof , Stones are set round , excepting those Gaps which appear to have been made by the Invasion of the Villagers upon these Stones , with Sledges , for their use in Building . Within this prodigious Round of Ditch , Bank and Stones , i● the Village : and two Piles of these large Stones , viz. about eighteen , nineteen or twenty Foot high , in a manner , somewhat Circular , bur pretty compact together : but the Church stands wholly without the Round of the Ditch . Moreover , there is another thing no less remarkable than the rest , namely , a streight Walk made by two long Tracts of Stone , about five , six or seven Foot high on either hand , of about a Mile long , leading , as an Avenue , to the said Work. And , at the beginning thereof , two other Tracts , which make another Walk , leading on the Right Hand to two other Circles of Stone , one within another , The River Kinnel running just underneath . This Description , ●ogether with a Delineation of the Stones at Stanton Drew , I received from a particular friend , Mr. John Aubrey , of the Royal Society ; a person of much worth and ingenuity ; but , most especially curious in the search of Antiquities . And this favour is so much the greater , for that before he had designed the Description thereof himself , in a Work he intends to publish , Entituled Monumenta Britanica . There are Stones near the Barrow , at Stanton Harcourt , called The Devil's Coits . Pyramidal Stones in Yorkshire , called The Devil's Bolts . A Stone , between Neat Enston and Fulwell , somewhat flat , and tapouring upward , from a broad bottom . Snake-stones , Cockle-stones and Star-stones , at Purton Passage , over Seavern , in Gloucestershire : at Shugbury in Warwickshire : on the Rocks by Belvoir Castle in Leicestershire . Cockle-stones at Sapworth , by Sharston , in Gloucestershire , at Witney in Oxfordshire , on the Hills by Farnham in Surrey . Three deep Pits , near Darlington , in the Bishoprick of Durham . Hagdale Pit , near Feversham . The great Pit in the Road-way , between Feversham and Bocton . Another near Shelwich . One between Daving-Church and Stone-Church . One in the Parish of Norton . One or two in a Field near Beacon-Field . Under Holm-Castle in Surrey , is a great Arched Vault . Near Flamborough-Head in Yorkshire , are certain Waters called Vipsies , which flow out of Neighbouring Springs every other Year ; and fall with a violent Stream into the Sea. On Cadier Arthur Hill in Cheshire is a Spring , deep as a Well , and four square , and having no Streams ; but there are Trouts found in it . To the Medicinal Wells , already mentioned , lately found out , may be added , that of Sellenge , and that of Egerton , near Lenham in Kent ; both which were discovered about forty years since ; and the last turns Wood into Stone . At Ashwell in Bedfordshire rise so many Sources of Springs , that they soon drive a Mill. In the midst of the River Nen , South of Peterborough , in No●●hamptonshire , is a deep Gulf , so cold , that in Summer , no Swimmer is ●●le t●●●dure it , y●● not frozen in Winter . At Lutterworth , in ●●icestershire , is a Spring , so cold , that it 〈◊〉 Straw and Sticks into Sto●● . A Valley in Fli●●●hire ▪ at the Mouth of the River , seeming to lie lower than the Sea ; is yet , never overflowed . A Spring at Chedder , near Axbridge , drives twelve Mills within a quarter of a Mile . Several Rivers run under Ground . As , Mole , in Surrey . A Branch of Medway , in Kent . The little River Hans , in Staffordshire . The little River Alen , in Denbighshire . At Asply Gowetz , in Bedfordshire , is an Earth that turns Wood into Stone . To the Remarks of England may be added , the Artificially cast up Tumuli , or Barrows of Earth . An innumerable Company of them on Salisbury Plain . And that prodigious one called Silbury Hill , between Marlborough and Cawn . Like which is that called Clay Hill , near Warmister . But that lies in some doubt , whether Natural or Artificial . Likewise , divers Vestigia of Roman Camps , viz. Yarnborough Castle , on Salisbury Plain . Maiden Castle , about a Mile West of Dorchester . Badbury Castle , in Dorsetshire . Northsed , on Hounslow Heath . One near Oswaldstree , in Shropshire . Crednet Hill , in Hertfordshire . Where also Ariconium ; now Kenchester . To the Manufactures and Inventions of England . MAsons , Painting and Glasing first brought into England , by Benedict , Anno 728. Antonio Bonese , an Italian , first taught the English to spin with a Distaff , 20 H. 7. Fine Spanish Needles were made in Queen Maries Reign , by a Negro in Cheapside , who refused co communicate his Art ; but it was afterwards taught by Elias Crouse , a German , Anno 8º Elizabethae . In the tenth year of the said Queen , Richard Dyer came from Spain , and taught his Country-men the way of making Earthen Fire-Pots , Furnaces and Transportable Ovens for baking of Earthen Ware. He had the first sole profit by Patent , Anno 1555. Walter Rippon is said to have made the first Coach in England : for the Earl of Rutland , Anno 1564. a hollow turning Coach : for the Queen : Anno 1585. a rare Chariot . Others say , William Boonen , a Dutch-man , Coach-man to Queen Eliz. first brought the use of the Coach into England . And about the same time came in Long Waggons . Making of Copperas in England was first practised by Cornelius de Vos , a Merchant , An. 1587. William Saunders , a Fishmonger , was the first that brought our Caelestial and Terrestrial Globes to any considerable perfection ; but since , they have been much improved . William Matthews , in the 5th of Queen Elizabeth , was the first rare Artist in the making of fine Knives and Hafts , which were marked with a Half Moon ; and for which he had the Queens Letters Patents . About the same time Pins , which were formerly brought in by Strangers , to the value of 60000 l. per Annum , were first made in England ; and now excell all that are made in any other part of the World. One Bourass first made the Engin for Scale-Board . One Ross is said to have been the first that made Bandores in England : and , to this , day , that called the Ross Viol is accounted the choicest of all other Viols . The ancient way among us of keeping Accounts was by Tallies ; and is , in some measure , and on some occasions , retained to this day . The most considerable instance is , in the Tallies of the Exchequer . And , not only common Accounts , but the Account of Time , and the Motions of the Sun , Moon , and other Planets , anciently in some parts of Derbyshire ( and some say , Staffordshire also ) were usually notched and marked out upon a piece of Wood. This sort of Calender-Log , or Wooden Almanack , hath scarce been taken notice of , till of late ; and now some few there are who understand the way of it . The only one I have seen of them , is in the custody of Mr. John Bagford , a Searcher into Antiquities , Arts and Ingenuities , much above what might be expected from one of his Education and Literature . An Engin for Clock-Wheels was invented about a hundred years since . An Engine for the speedy cutting down of Wheels for Watches , forty years ago , none now made after the same manner . An Engin for drawing of Pinion Wire , of Steel for Watches , about ten years ago . Mr. Tomakee , about ten years since , was famous for making Chains for Watches especially , as being the first . His Wife lives in Rose Street , near Long Acre . Other late Inventions there are , not unworthy to be mentioned . An Engin for Rasing of Glass , an Engin for Spinning of Glass , the Engin for Cutting Tobacco , the Rolling Press for Printing off from Copper Plates , Damask Linnen , and the Watering of Silks . The way of separating Gold from Silver . Enamelling in Gold , Silver and Brass ; Boulting Mills , Dark Lanthorns , the Trumpet-makers Trade , Cane-Chairs ; a choice way of Colouring , used by Book-binders ; boyling of Whalebone , making of Hornware . Perriwigs , Womens Masks , Busks , and Fans , and Muffs are said to have come in here about the time of the Paris-Massacre . The first pair of black Silk Stockins in England presented to Queen Elizabeth , Anno 1660. Sir Walter Raleigh reputed by some , the first Improver of our late Models of Ships . The best Saddle-Trees are said to be made at Burford in Oxfordshire , and some parts of the North of England . The best Riding-Whips at St Edmundbury in Suffolk . Besides the Fire-Engin above mentioned , there is lately brought into use a portable one , of extraordinary advantage , in regard it is capable of being directed into any particular Room or Chamber . FINIS . THE FOURTH PART OF THE Present State OF ENGLAND . RELATING To its Trade and Commerce within it self , and with all Countries Traded to by the English , as it is found at this Day Established , giving a most exact account of the Laws and Customs of Merchants relating to Bills of Exchange , Policies of Ensurance , Fraights , Bottomery , Wreck , Averidge , Contributions , Customs , Coyns , Weights , Measures , and all other matters relating to Inland and Marine affairs . To which is likewise added Englands Guide to Industry , or Improvement of Trade , for the good of all People in General . Written by a Person of Quality . LONDON , Printed by R. Holt for William Whirwood , near the George Inn in Little Britain , 1683. TO THE READER . REader , wonder not that I present you with the third part of the present state of this famous and Flourishing Island , the which tho it has been already largely discoursed on in the former parts , yet it yields such Varity , if considered aright in its several Capacities , that it is a kind of Ingratitude to pass over in Silence the materialest part of its Glory ; which has of late rendered the Brittish Empire famous throughout the known World ; and caused the Barbarous Nations with admiration to bless our happy Shoars , and those whose Industries have rendered the Commodities of this Islands natural Growth valuable as the Gold of Peru , Jemms of India , Spices of Arabia , or Silks and Golden Woofs of Persia . No Nation is there which the Sun 's large eye beholds , that ever heard of rich Albion , but were desirous to have Correspondence with her Merchants , and as from the Store-House of the Western World , covet a supply of all things necessary for the use of man , in Lieu whereof the Pregnant Quarters of the Earths vast Globe , sends us yearly tributes of all that can contribute to our Temporal happiness , then take it not amiss , if after long experience I have ventured to unlock this Cabinet of rarities ; and expose it to the publick view , which nought but Envy has the power to shut ; and sure that cannot be conceived in any English brest , to stifle that whose hughest aim is at the Publick good ; or if those of other Nations be ashamed to see the Glory of their native Soil , so far eclipsed by ours should endeavour it , yet let them know therein they wrong themselves by repining at the light , which like a favourable Guide to a lost Traveller , would put them in the right way to imitate that which through want of better Experience and Insight , they emulate ; yet if any such this . Age produce , it matters not , I referring this work to stand or fall by the Approbation of my judicious Country-men , for whose Sole Benefit it was compiled by him Who is , Reader , yours to command J. S. A TABLE OF THE CONTENTS . OF the Original of Trade , its Increase and the Method to bring it to its present perfection , &c. Chap. 1 Of the Original of the Companies of London , and how and when Incorporated . Chap. 2. Of the English Merchants trading into most parts , the time of their Incorporating and the Improvement of Navigation . Chap. 3. Of Englands Trade in general , a Survey of the Weights , Measures , Coyns , Comerse of most of the Counties . Chap. 4. Of the Traffick of London . Chap. 5. Of the Coyns of England , settled by the Tower Standard . Chap. 6. Of the Weights and Measures used in England , established by a Standard . Chap. 7. Of the Trade of Scotland , as to its dependencies with England . Chap. 8. A View of Ireland , and its present State and Trade . Chap. 9. A View of the Ocean , and the Islands belonging to the Isle of great Britain . Chap. 10. Of the Measures , Breadth , and Length of English Cloath . Chap. 11. A View of America , and its Trade with England . Chap. 12. A View of Virginia , of the Trade , Names , Customs , and Government of it . Chap. 13. A View of New-England , and the Trade thereof . Chap. 14. A View of Maryland , the Customs and Trade thereof . Chap. 15. A View of the Peruanan Provinces , their Trade and Customs . Chap. 16. A View of Affrica , and of the Manners , Customs , Trade , Coyns , and Commodities . Chap. 17. Of Tunis , the Trade , Manners , and Customs thereof . Chap. 18. A View of Argiers , of their Trade , Manners , and Customs , and Methods for selling of Slaves . Chap. 19. Of the Kingdom of Fez , and its Trade with England . Chap. 20. Of the Kingdom of Morocco , the Customs , and Trade thereof with England . Chap. 21. Of Nur●idia and Lydia , and their Trade . Chap. 22. A View of Ethiopia and the Trade thereof . Chap. 24. A View of Mosambique , and its Trade . Chap. 25. Of Egypt , and the Trade thereof . Chap. 26. Of Grand Cairo and its Trade . Chap. 27. Of the Isles appertaining to Affrica , the Commodities , Trade , Weights , and Measures . Chap. 28. Of Asia , the Trade , Manners , and Customs thereof , of the Money currant , and Commodities , Weights , and Measures . Chap. 29. A View of Syria and its Trade . Chap. 30. Of Aleppo , and the Trade thereof , and the Customs of that famous City . Chap. 31. Of Damascus , and its Trade . Chap. 32. Of Tripoly , and the Trade thereof . Chap. 33. Of Palestine . Chap. 34. Of America , and its Trade . Chap. 35. Of Assyria , Mesopotamia , and Caldea . Chap. 36. Of Media , and its Trade . Chap. 37. Of Persia its Trade and Commodities . Chap. 38. Of Hispaan and its Trade . Chap. 39. Of Tartaria its Trade , Coyn , and Customs . Chap. 40. Of India , Intra and Extra Gangem . Chap. 41. A View of Cambaia , and its Trade . Chap. 42. A View of Goa , its Trade , Commodities and Customs , &c. Chap. 43. Of Musulipatan . Chap. 44. Of the City of Satagan , the Metropolis of Bengala . Chap. 45. Of Peru , the Trade , Coyns , and Customs . Chap. 46. Of Syan and Malacca . Chap. 47. Of China , and their Trade with England . Chap. 48. Of the Islands , in the Asian Seas . Chap. 49. Of the Isles of Molucco's , &c. Chap. 50. Of Javas , and the Trade thereof . Chap. 51. Of other Islands in the Indian Seas . Chap. 52. Of Cyprus its Trade , Growth , and Coyns . Chap. 53. A Discourse of Gold and Silver , its true intrinsick value , their Fineness and Allayes , &c. Chap. 54. Of Diamonds and precious Stones , and their value and goodness . Chap. 55. Of the Trade of Europe , and their dependencies on England . Chap. 56. Of Sevil in Spain and its Trade . Chap. 57. Of Malaga , the Customs , Weights , and Measures . Chap. 58. Of Alicant , and its Trade . Chap. 59. Of Madrid , its Trade and Customs . Chap. 60. Of Lisbon , its Trade , Weights , Measures , and Coyns . Chap. 61. A View of France , its Trade , Custom , Weights and Measures , &c. Chap. 62. Of Rouen and the Trade thereof . Chap. 63. A View of Paris , its Trade , Custom , and Commodities , &c. Chap. 64. Of Lyons , and its Trade . Chap. 65. Of Marselia , and its Trade . Chap. 66. Of Naples , and its Trade . Chap. 67. Of Italy , and its Trade . Chap. 68. Of Florence , and its Trade . Chap. 69. Of Millain , and its Trade . Chap. 70. Of the Dukedoms of Mantua and Urbin , and their Trade . Chap. 71. Of Venice , and its Trade . Chap. 72. Of Parma . Chap. 73. Of Leghorn , its Trade , Customs , Weights , and Measures . Chap. 74. Of Genoa , its Trade and Commerce . Chap. 75. Of Luca , and its Trade . Chap. 76. Of Rome , and its Trade , and Customs . Chap. 77. Of Flanders and Holland , their Weights , Measures , Coyns , Customs , Traffick . Chap. 78. Of Amsterdam and its Trade . Chap. 79. Of Germany , its Provinces and Trade . Chap. 80. Of Stratsburg , and its Trade . Chap. 81. Of Vicura , its Trade , Weights , and Customs , and Coyn. Chap. 82. Of Hamburg , its Trade , Commodities , Coyns , &c. Chap. 83. Of Denmark , its Trade , &c. Chap. 84. Of Elsinore , and the Trade thereof . Chap. 85. Of Norway , its Customs and Tade . Chap. 86. Of Sweedland , its provinces and Trade . Chap. 87. Of Moscovia , and its chief City Mosco , its Trade and Customs , &c. Chap. 88. A View of the Kingdom of Poland its Trade , &c. Chap. 89. Of Hungary , and the adjacent Provinces , their Trade and Manufacture , &c. Chap. 90. A View of Greece , and its Trade , the Manufacture and Trade of Constantinople with England . Chap. 91. A View of the Islands in the Egean and Mediterranean Sea , &c. Chap. 92. Of Candia and other Islands . Chap. 93. Of Zant , Zeffalonia , and their Trade , Commodities , Coyn , &c. Chap. 94. Of Sicilia , Malta and Sardinia , their Trade . Chap. 95. Of Greenland & other Northern Islands . Ch. 96. Of the Practice and Custom of Exchanges , and the Benefit thereof . Chap. 97. Of four Bills of Exchange , of presenting , paying and protesting , the Laws and Customs of Merchants therein asserted . Chap. 98. Of the Pair in Exchange , and form of English , Dutch , and French Bills . Chap. 99. Vseful observat . on Bills of Exchange . page 300. Of Letters of Credit , and why drawn . p. 312. A Survey of Customs of Tonnage , and Poundage , of Wines of the Growth of France , Germany , Spain , Portugal . p. 314 Of Policies of Assurance , their Original , Legality , Nature , and Quality . p. 325. Of Bottomery , the Signification of it , the Commodity or Discommodity of it . p. 332. Of the Rights , and Priviledges of Owners of Ships , and Rules to be observed by them , according to Laws Marine . p. 335. Instructions to be observ'd by Masters of Ships . p. 337. Of Fraight and Charter part according to Laws Marine . p. 340. Of Wrecks , and Instructions for Masters and Owners in case of Wrecks . p. 344. Of Averidge and Contribution , and what Goods maybe cast over-board in case of a Storm . p. 347. A View of London , with the Customs , Priviledges and Exemptions thereof according to the Charters of several Kings of England . p. 351. A Survey of the remaining Ports of England , with their Members , Creeks , &c. together with the Goods Imported and Exported . p. 358. A Table of the Contents of the second Treatise , Intituled , A Discourse of Trade . CHAP I. THat a small Country , and few people by Situation , Trade and Policy , may be Equivalent in Wealth and Strength to a far greater people , and that Conveniencies for Shipping and Water-Carriage , do most eminently and fundamentally conduce thereunto . CHAP. II. That some kind of Taxes and Publick Levies may rather increase then diminish the Wealth of the Kingdom . CHAP. III. That France cannot by Reason of natural and perpetual impediments , be more powerful at Sea then England and the low Countries . CHAP. IV. That the people and Territories of the King of England , are naturally as considerable for Wealth and Strength as those of France . CHAP. V. That the impediments of Englands greatness , are Contingent and removable . CHAP. . VI. That the Power and Wealth of England , has increased these last 40 years . CHAP. VII . That one 10 part of the whole Expences of the King of England Subjects , is sufficient to maintain 100000 Foot , 40000 Horse , and 40000 men at Sea , and defray all other charges of the Government , both ordinary and Extraordinary , &c. CHAP. VIII . That there are spare Hands enough amongst the King of Englands Subjects , to earn two Millions per Annum more then they now do , and that there are also Imployments ready , proper and sufficient for the purpose . CHAP. IX . That there is Money sufficient to drive the Trade of the Nation . CHAP. X. That the King of Englands Subjects , have Stock Competent and Convenient to drive the Trade of the Whole Commercial World. THE INTRODUCTION . OR THE ORIGINAL OF TRADE , PLAINLY Demonstrating it's Increase . The Means and Methods used to bring it to the Perfection it is arrived to at present . And of the great Benefit reaped thereby , both in General , and Particular . CHAP. I. THat Inland & Maritim Trade & Traffick are ( with Gods Blessings on mens Indeavours ) the chief Pillars and ●upport of all Nations , and from whence they had their first rise and greatness is so evident that Arguments to prove it would be ineffectual ; yet from the World 's Original it had not it's perfection , nor indeed could it till Mankind increased , and by spreading wide in the Earth , Peopled it's vast Immensity ; nor then , for some thousands of Years was it National , but rather in secret between man and man , few People knowing the Benefit of any other commodities then what were of the native growth of those Countries they inhabited ; nor so could Riches abound , for Coyn was for the most part useless , or indeed not mentioned till the days of Abraham the Patriarck ; Exchange of Goods being the only Traffick ▪ and consequently on that score few Traded for more then they had present occasion to use , by Reason many things were not of lasting quality , and for that they for the most part Travelled from place to place . Their chiefest Riches consisted in Cattle , but at last when they Builded Cities and Towns , and found the conveniency of a Settlement they extended their Traffick farther , and one City Traded with another , which still spread wider ; yet long was it ' er they found means to plough the Bosom of the Sea , and to hold Commerce and Traffick with remote Nations , which no sooner was brought to my Perfection , but Riches abounding , and Plenty Flowing in on every side , men then ( and not till then ) began to give their thoughts large scope , and not contented with the Portion of Earth alotted them , began to grow emulous & aspire to universal Soveraignty ; as likewise to plant Colonies in ( till then ) unhabitable Islands ▪ which had not Shipping been invented must have continued without inhabitants ; as at this time ( past doubt ) for want of discovery many do in the remote Seas , especially under the Artick Pole , whose extremity renders them unaccessible , or at least unhabitable ; and of all Nations the Greeks were the first that brought Navigation to any Perfection , by which they grew opulent and extended their Colonies to th● utmost Orient , acquiring the Empire of the then known World ; their Fame growing every where great , nor could the Romans bring their Warlike Expeditions to any perfection till they were Lords of the Sea , and inriched themselves by Traffick , bringing into that one City the Stores of all Nations ; so that from Cottages of Shepherds , who lay'd her first Foundation , she soon became Magnificent , thrusting up her Lofty Spires , bedecked with Gold so high that they in a manner kissed the Clouds , and rendered her the awfull Mistriss of the Universe ; and by Trade and Industry , more then by Arms , kept up her Reputation for six hundred Years , when ranging the World to find out Countries unconquered , at last , from Gallia , or France , under the leading of Caesar , they entered Brittain ; a Place then wild and rude , not knowing how to use the abundant plenty that Nature bestowed upon them , but refusing all manner of Dainties , fed upon Roots of Herbs , and Barks of Trees ; not Tilling any Ground , nor sowing Corn , otherwise then scattering it on the untilled Surface of the Earth , and harrowing it over with Bushes , suffering their Cattle , Fowl , and Fish , of which they had store , to continue useless , scarcely knowing any shoar but their own : Their Traffick , or Merchandise , for the most part amongst themselves , and that but mean ; their chief Riches consisting ( as Strabo saith ) in Ivory-Boxes , Sheers , Onches , Bitts , Bridles , Chains of Iron , Wreaths , Glass coloured and the like , which they usually delivered to each other as currant Coyn , for what their necessity required ; but no sooner had the Romans Civilized them , and instructed them in such Arts as were most sutable to their Capacities , and might stand them in greatest stead , but they began to Build Houses ( living before for the most in Huts , and going naked ) and turned their Leather Boats into Tall Ships , Furrowing the Seas broad back , and discovering many Nations , to them , till then , unknown : So that by Traffick abroad , and Improvement at home , this Island grew famous , and spread it's Name to the utmost Limit of the known Earth ; so that being rightly termed the Store-House of the Western World , all the Neighbour-Nations Traded hither ; so that those Ports and Havens that were for a long time useless , were now filled with Ships of all Nations : So that Silver and Gold was had in Abundance , and Coyns in imitation of those the Romans Stamped with the Effigies of their Kings and Princes , which then were many , each County containing two or three , and they for the most part at variance amongst themselves , which gave the Romans an opportunity to become Conquerors at an easier rate then otherwise they could . During the four hundred Years and odd that the Romans Governed here by their Lievetenants , and sometimes by their Emperors in Person ; Rome , and after her Constantinople , the new Seat of Empire , abounded with our Stores , so that more Tribute was pay'd by this Island then by France and Germany , tho Ten times as large ; but the fame of Brittains Wealth proved her unhappyness , for the Goth breaking in upon the Roman Empire , whose spreading Top was too large to be supported by the slender Bole , her Branches was torn off on every side , so that to support their own , the Romans were forced to recall their Legions , who took with them the Flower of the Brittish-Youth , and left her open to the Picts and wild-Irish , who spoiled and wasted all her pleasant Places with Fire and Sword , and after them the Saxons ( who were called in to expell them ) far worse , so that of a Flourishing Island , it became for many Years a place of Ruin and desolation , all her Nobility Slain , and the residue of her Natives forced to betake themselves to the Fastnesses of Mountains , so that Strangers having grasped the Scepter , which then Multiplyed into seven , from thence called the Heptarchy of the Saxons Trade again ceased , all the Ships either Sunk or Burnt in the Ports ; but no sooner was the Bloody Tempest over , but the wounded Island again began to lift up her Head. Forraign Nations again came in with the growths of their distant Soil , and so she again became a Store-House of Wealth ; but especially , when the sole Monarchy was reduced under Egbert the nineteenth King of the West-Saxons — under whom things Flourished in a peaceful manner . But soon after , as if Fate had envied her happyness , the Danes ( no less Bloody then the Saxons had been ) made an Invasion , tempted by the glittering Wealth of this fair Isle , and never left off till they had grasped the Scepter , and reduced it to the obedience of Canute , under whom again she Flourished more then ever , and so continued to do ( Trade increasing and Arts duly improved ) till the Conquest by the Norman-Duke , who for a while put a stop to her aspiring , yet soon after gave incouragements to Industry by Grants , Charters , and large immunities ; and from him , through the Reigns of several Peaceful Kings , the current of her Prosperity continued . Maritim affairs being prosecuted with such Success , that our Sailers began to Plough ( till then ) unknown Seas , and so Succesfully that they brought home great store of Riches , opening a way to those that succeeded , to bring to perfection what at this day renders us happy in all temporal Blessings . Having thus far proceeded in general to shew what Brittain has been in her infancy , I shall now proceed to give the Reader an account of such matters as have more immediately conduced to the prosperous and Flourishing Estate , wherein she has for many Years past remained , and does at present remain ; which chiefly , next Heaven , we must attribute to her store of Shipping , and Expertness in Navigation , so long incouraged by her indulgent Kings , who in Peace and War have maintained the Soveraignty of the Seas with Navies almost incredible ; so that no Neighbour-Nation durst disturb our Traffick . Not to insist upon King Arthure , who found out the Russian Tracts , and passed on conquering almost to the utmost Orient , attended by a Squadron of three hundred Ships ; nor Edgard his Successor , who Ploughed the Bosom of the deep with four hundred Sail , asserting his Soveraignty on the Main , to the admiration of the Neighbour-Nations . Nor was Canute the Puissant Danish King , then Reigning in Brittain , less formidable on his watery Empire , being proud to have annexed to his Style Lord of the Ocean . Nor Edward the Confessor , less Potent in Naval forces , as appears by the many Ships of War he set forth to give Battle to his Brother in Law Godwin Earl of Kent , who kept the Seas with a great number of Ships that spoiled and wasted the Coasts of Brittain , as appears in the Reign of that King ; tho indeed Heaven at that time prevented the Shedding of English-Blood , by sending just as they were about to ingage a thick Fogg to cover the Face of the Deep , so that none could see a Ships length . By this means Seamen were brought up and fitted for Navigation , in such sort that in the Nonage of the Norman-Conquest , as is before said , Traffick abroad began to Flourish ; nor was Manufacture , that Sinew of a Nation , less regarded , People being incouraged thereto , not only by the Princes themselves with large Indulgencies , but by such Wealthy Peers and others , as more sought the good of the Publick-Weal than their own Private interest , which ever redounds in the end to their profit . For tho the Poor be never so industrious , yet wanting what to Trade with , their Industry will faint ; but if they have imployment to improve themselves , Lands , and all things else will be improved , and advanced to a higher Estimate , and the growth of England be made of value equal , if not exceeding any European Commodity whatsoever : So that this spot of an Island may , nay is , rightly termed the Store-House of the World , who can subsist of her self , but without whose Commodities few Nations can maintain their Grandure . But to the purpose : The Kings after the Conquest intending to make this their constant Seat , and making little esteem of their Ancient Inheritance , the Dutchy of Normandy did not let to increase the Grandure of this Kingdom , by granting large Priviledges and immunities to those that were Industrious , but especially to the City of London , the chief residence of Royalty , named by many Kings , their Royal Chamber : Nor was any thing thought too dear that might conduce to her Felicity , as appears by the Charter granted by King William the first , commonly called the Conqueror , which was in these words . William King , greeteth William Bishop , and Godfry Porters and all the Burgesses within London , French , and English , and I grant you , that I will that you maintain and injoy all your Laws , that you did in the days of King Edward ( meaning the Confessor 's ) and I will , that each Child be his Fathers Heir ; and further , I will , that no man wrong you , and so God keep you . This free concession gave scope to Trade , being much augmented by succeeding Kings , so that Tradsemen growing numerous , they so prevailed upon the Benign Bounty of the Reigning Princes , that they after long Fraternities obtained at several times to be incorporate in distinct Bodies , or Companies , to Implead , or be Impleaded as one man. The account of which as it happened in divers Kings Reigns , shall in the following Chapters be set down , beginning at the first of the twelve , and so to proceed in order . CHAP. II. The Original of the Companies of the City of London , viz. the Principal twelve , of the time of their being incorporated , and by what Kings and Queens : As likewise the names of all the other Companies , as at this day they stand confirmed . 1. THe Mercers ( tho then Trading for the most part in Stuffs of the Native growth ) were inabled to be a Company , and Permitted to Purchase twenty pounds per Annum Lands , in the seventeenth Year of King Richard the second 's Reign , Anno Domini , 1393. 2. The Grocers ( tho at that time not brought to half the Perfection that now it is ) called Pepperers , before were Incorporated , by the name , aforesaid , in the twentieth Year of King Edward the third Anno Dom. 1345. 3. The Drapers for the most part Woollen , were Incorporated in the seventeenth of King Henry the sixth , Anno 1430. having been a Fraternity from the time that King Edward the third so earnestly promoted the Woollen Manufacture by admitting the Flemins and other Nations , the free use of Manual Operation within his Dominions . That so his Subjects might learn the Craft , and not be beholden to other Nations , to work the growth of our own Country , and pay them extraordinary Rates , by the advance of Exportation and Importation ; for what might be otherwise ordered to the Advantage and Glory of our own Nation by setting many thousands of Poor people on work , otherwise incapable of getting whereby to subsist . 4. The Fishmongers ( a Vocation no less advantagious to this Kingdom by their incouragement of the Fishing-Trade , of which hereafter I shall speak ) were ( in former times ) two Companies viz. Stock-Fishmongers , and Salt-Fishmongers ; but in the beginning of the Reign of Henry the Eight , Anno 1509. did bear their Arms as at present they do , and in the twenty eight Year of the King , Anno 1536 , were United and incorporated in one Body without distinction . 5. The Goldsmiths ( an Ancient Craft , so I may rightly term it , for formerly those that sold worked likewise their own Plate ) were Incorporated and confirmed in the sixteenth Year of King Richard the Second's Reign . 6. The Skinners had the Favour to be incorporated in the first Year of the Reign of King Edward the third , Anno 1327. and were made a Brotherhood in the eighteenth of King Richard the Second's Reign . 7. The Merchant-Taylors had their first pattent of Arms granted by Sr. Thomas Holne Clarencieux King at Arms , being then called Taylors , and Linnen Armourers , viz. in the twenty first of King Edward the fourth , Anno 1480. and since Incorporated by Henry the Seventh , by the name of Merchant Taylors . viz. in the seventeenth of his Reign , Anno 1501. 8. The Haberdashers , or Hurrers , formerly so called were Incorporated a Brotherhood of St. Catharine in the twenty sixth of Henry the sixth , Anno 1447. and by the name of Merchants Haberdashers , confirmed in the seventeenth Year of Henry the seventh . 9. The Salters had their Arms , and as many suppose , were confirmed in the twentieth Year of Henry the Eighth 1530. being a Company of good Esteem . The Iron-Mongers had the Favour to be Incorporated in the third Year of King Edward the fourth , Anno 1462. at which time they were greatly increased , and the Mines of our Nation much improved . 11. The Vintners , formerly called Wine-Tunners were Incorporated in the Reign of King Edward the third , after he had Conquered all Normandy , and by that means ingrossed most of the French Vintage ; But were not confirmed till the fifteenth of Henry the sixth . 12. The Cloath-Workers had their Arms granted by Thomas Benolt , Clarenceux , in the twenty second Year of Henry the Eighth , but the time of their Incorporation uncertain . And thus in brief , have I declared the Original of the twelve Principal Companies , upon whom the greatest Stress of Trade depends , and by whose prudent Management , and Industry , Brittain Flourishes , and at this day lifts up her Head above her Neighbour Nations . Those that remain , are these ( whose names I shall only recite , because they tend not much to our purpose , the Dyers , Brewers , Leathersellers , Pewterers , Barbers , Chyrugeons , Armourers , White-Bakers , Wax-Chandlers , Tallow-Chandlers , Cutlers , Girdlers , Butchers , Sadlers , Carpenters , Cordwainers , Painters , Curriers , Masons , Plumbers , Inholders , Founders , Embroiderers , Poulterers , Cooks , Coopers , Bricklayers , and Tylers , Bowyers , Fletchers , Blacksmiths , Joyners , Plaisterers , Weavers , Fruterers , Scriveners , Botlemakers , and Horners , Stationers , Marblers , Wool-packers , Farriers , Paviers , Lorimors , or Lorinors , Brown-Bakers , Wood-mongers , Vpholsterers , Turners , Glaziors , Clarks , Watermen , Apothecaries , and Silk-Throwsters . All of these are Fraternities , and most of them Incorporated and have Charters of Priviledge , and large Immunities , tho in the days of our Forefathers , many of them were not known , not having brought their several Trades and Crafts to perfection , for many of which they were obliged to be beholden to Strangers ; but the Natives of this Kingdom being ▪ naturally Ripe-wited and of a toward Genius , soon became Arts-Masters , and out-did their Teachers ; so that at this day , no Nation under Heaven can exceed them ( if the Materials be alike ) in all respects . But having given the Reader an account of the Respective Companies , whose industry at home , improve to a Miracle , what is brought to them from distant Lands , I shall proceed to give a Relation of the Respective Merchants , whose Traffick by Sea Inriches the Land , whilest the Land finds them with wherewithal to drive on their Commerce with all Nations , from whence any Valuable Merchandise is brought . But before I Lanch altogether into the Ocean , I think it would be necessary to relate the Incorporation of the Merchant of the Staple , who once were the chiefest boast , and most profitable to this Nation : Nor indeed less profitable to others , as France , Flanders , Holland , Saxony , and many other Countries , the chief Mart being Established at Calis , a little before taken from the French , by King Edward the third , the profit of our English Wool then chiefly obliging the Flemings to side with us , against their Potent Neighbour . The Merchants of the Staple having been a long while a Fraternity were Incorporated by the aforesaid King Edward the third , and by him indowed with many large Priviledges , tho at this day the Woollen Manufacture , being greatly increased , every one buyes his Commodity where he can find it best Cheap , so that there remaining no fixed Staple , these Merchants are not now of such Repute as formerly . CHAP. III. Of the several English Merchants Trading into most parts , of the time of their Incorporating , and Improvment of Navigation . THe English Merchants Trading by Navigation ( who by visiting remote Countries , and Trafficking with the Inhabitants , bring in the store of the whole World ) are chiefly these , and their Incorporations mostly as followeth . 1. The Merchants Adventurers , were Incorporated by King Edward the fourth , from which time , they Traded with good Success , until the Reign of Queen Elizabeth , who , for a further incouragement to their Industry , not only confirmed them , but inlarged their Priviledges . 2. The Merchants of Russia or Muscovia , who having improved their Trade and Commerce in that Remote Kingdom , to the Inriching their Native Land , were Incorporated by King Edward the sixth , greatly incouraged by Queen Mary , and had their confirmation , with an Augmentation of their Priviledges , from the ever favourer of Navigation the Bounteous Queen Elizabeth . 3. The Merchants of Elbing , were Incorporated by Queen Elizabeth , and by her greatly incouraged ; she , like a prudent Queen , and Patroness of her Country , well knowing , that by Traffick , not only her Revenues would be improved , but likewise her People be Inriched , and she rendered formidable to her aspiring Neighbours , tho since upon some distast , they have left Trading in that place , and Trade at Hambourg , and other free Cities and Ports . 4. The Turky-Merchants , or Merchants of the Levant , were likewise Incorporated by the same Queen , and were confirmed with a large addition , to their Priviledges by King James . 5. The Merchants of Spain , or more properly , Spanish Merchants , or such of our Nation as Traded to Spain , were Incorporated by Queen Elizabeth . 6. The East-India Merchants were Incorporated by Queen Elizabeth , Anno 1600. from which time they have continually inproved their Trade in those remote parts of the World , being now one of the Wealthiest Corporations in Europe ; their first rise was by imploying a Joynt-stock to build Ships ( of which now they have Store ) and so themselves in imitation of the Porteguese , and other industrious People , Traded to the Indies , and soon found the advantage by bringing home the same Commodities which we before were beholden to Strangers for at second Hand , and dear Rates . 7. In the latter end of Queen Elizabeths Reign and in the beginning of King James's , the Eastland , Greenland , and French Merchants , were setled in companies and Traded with great Success , Building many Ships , and continually imploying some thousands of Persons in the Management of their Affairs , Exporting Commodities of our growth , and bring in those of the growth of other Countries . 8. There are likewise a Company of Virginia , or West-India Merchants , whose Industry has much improved our Colonies in America , and advance the King's Revenues in his Customs twenty thousand pound per Annum ; which Trade into those parts has , and dayly will increase and turn to the Advantage of our Nation , and be a means of making further Discoveries in those vast Seas , in which lie hid past doubt many fair Islands , if not Continents as Rich as those which yield the Spaniard yearly so many Millions of Ducates in Gold Ore , and Bars of Silver . These and other Traders in remote parts make England Flourish , and stand the envy of her Neighbour Nations . There is likewise the Guinnie and Barbary Companies , both Rich in Shipping and Merchandise , having since their Incorporation gotten great Esteem , and much improved Navigation . And now , having given an account of the Constitution and settlement of those in general that drive on the Trade , and Commerce both by Land and Sea , before I Lanch into the Ocean , to take a view of other Countries , or to describe their Trade and Traffick I shall expose to Publick view the Commodities of my Native Country , with all the Islands and Dominions that surround it . viz. such ●s are subject to the Brittish Scepter ; as ●lso , in due place and order . As also of ●he Currant Coyns , the Weights , Mea●ures , and such other Matters relating to Commerce , as are available to the Compiling of this Treatise ; and first of Eng●and and Wales . CHAP. IV. Of England , and the Trade thereof in General and Particular , with a Survey of all the Measures , Weights , Currant Coynes , Inland Commerce , and what tends to Navigation . A Description of the most material Counties , and of the Trade of Wales in general . ENgland , the Head of the Brittish Empire , is in every Place so admirable abounding with plenty , that to describe her in every part of her Trade and Beautiful Situation , would exact a large Volum . Therefore I shall only in brief expose to view what is most material as to my purpose : And first , I shall begin with Cornwell , as being the remotest of the English Counties , or Provinces ; tho it be in it self , in many places , to appearance a Barren and Mountainous Country , yet does it produce Rich Mines of Tinn , which brought to perfection , is of great esteem in all Countries . With it there is also digged Gold and Silver , tho hardly worth refining , the Earth not having heat enough to bring it to perfection ; there is found likewise a Stone Transparent , naturally formed in Angles and Points like a Diamond , which was it not so common , might merit high esteem . On that Coast , Herrings and Pilchards are taken in great number , which not only sustain the Inhabitants , but being dryed prove good Merchandise in Spain , France , Flanders , and Italy . The Sea Coast is adorned with many Towns , of which Falmouth is chief , being capable of receiving many Vessels ; nor is St. Ives of less note , yielding great store of Fish , not reckoned less yearly then four or five thousand Hogsheads of Pilchards , and five hundred Barrels of Herrings , besides some Tuns of Congerdoust , & great store of Ray-Fish , which imploys some hundreds of the Inhabitants , and inables them to provide plentifully for their Families , and reserve , as the old saying is , a Penny against a rainy day . These Commodities , viz. Pilchards , are vended by the Hogshead , four of them making a Tun , as likewise by the thousand , they allowing twelve hundred small Tale to the thousand , and a Barrel of Herrings , commonly thirty Gallons , is sold to the Merchants for eighteen Shillings , twenty Shillings , or according as the fishing Season is propitious ; Congerdoust is sold by the Kintale , viz. one hundred and twelve pound to the Kintale ; Ray-fish are for the most part sold fresh , and that by the Dozen , at two Shillings four Pence , two Shillings six Pence , and sometimes three Shillings per Dozen , but their Dozens are extraordinary large , they allowing sometimes sixty to the Dozen , but sometimes less , according to the Custom of the Place ; their Weight is one hundred and twelve pound according to the Stander , their Yard and Ell equal to those of London . Their Bushel for Grain and Salt imported contains twenty eight Gallons Water Measure , and so proportionable the greater or the lesser Measures ; but their Bushel used in Publick Markets for Corns is but twenty Gallons , their Gallon agreeing with the Winchester Gallon . The Bakers in those parts are but few , and the most thing they stand in need of is Salt , Ten thousand Bushel being yearly spent in Curing their Fish . The manner of taking Pilchards and Herrings is with Nets , but the Ray-Fish with Hooks ; the first being Fished for from the first of July till the first of January ; the second , from Michalemass till Christmass ; and the third and last , only in the Prime of Summer ; sixty Boats , and about four hundred men being imployed therein . Devonshire is no less Rich in Veins of Tin : adorned it is with many Towns and good Havens ; as Exon , Dartmouth , and Plimouth , the latter famous for producing the worthy Sr. Francis Drake . The Sea-Ports , as the former , most Subsist by Fishery . Dorsetshire abounds in Cattle , Fertile Pastures , and Linnen Manufacture ; it 's chief Towns being Dorchester , and Waymouth . Somersetshire is famous for the many Trading Places contained in it's Circuit , but especially in Bristol , the second City of England for Naval Commerce , as being stored with Merchants Trading into most parts of the known World ; it abounds in Riches , and the County no less in Corn , Cattle , Wool , Woollen , Cloth Serges , and other valuable Commodities , which they Trade withal to other adjacent Counties . Darbyshire , the Head of which is the Town of Derby abounds in plenty of Corn , Leaden Mines , and other Minerals . Wiltshire is an Inland County , but the people Frugal and industrious , their chief Commodity is Woollen-Cloth , which is dispersed all over England , and brings them a good return , maintaining at least three thousand Persons in Carding , Spining , Weaving , Shearing , Dressing , and the like ; the Head of this County is Salisbury . Hampshire , famous for the great Trade of Hony therein , whose chief Cities are Southampton , and Winchester . Barkshire , is famous for Cloth-working , abounding in Cattle , Rich Pastures , Artificers , Fruits of all sorts , and all things else necessary for the Subsistance of man. Surry , is no less abounding in all plenty than the former , and of greater Trade , by Reason of it's nearness to the City of London , that Mouth of the Nation , by Reason of which it's Inhabitants have the better opportunity to vend the growth of that County . Sussex and Kent , abound in Fruits , Corn , Wood , Wax , Hony , Cattle , and all other necessary Commodities , which by Reason they border on the Sea , they have opportunity to dispose of at good rates . Glocestershire , is for the most part imployed in the Woollen Manufacture , Glocester being the Head City . In it are found those famous Hills of Cots-Wold on which numerous Flocks of Sheep Feed , and affoard the best Wool in Europe . Oxford , is famous for her Rich Pastures , store of Cattle , and Corn , but above all for her University in her chief City of Oxford . Buckingham , Bedford , and Hertfordshires , are adorned with pleasant Buildings , rich Pastures , store of Corn , pleasant Rivers abounding with Fish , and Forrests of Stately Oaks , with which the Wall of the Nation , viz. our Ships of War are made ; nor is Venison in abundance wanting , nor any sort of Fowls common in England . Middlesex , and Essex , the first famous for Buildings , and so long together containing the Pallaces of our Kings Courts of Judicature , and above all incompassing the famous City of London . The second , for store of Cattle the many famous Ports , and the Commodity received by shipping , the Silver Thames Washing her Southern Shoar as far as the Hope , it abounding likewise in Corn , Cheese , Butter , and the like . Suffolk and Norfolk , next take place ; the first famous for Butter , Cheese , Cloath , Cattle , Corn , Wool , and what not : The second for Deer , Conneys , Sheep , Daries , and store of Corn ; but above all , for containing the famous City of Norwich , which for Industry ought to be accounted the chief Boast of England , it being seated upon the River Yare , from whence Yarmouth takes it's name , and thirty Miles from the Sea by Water , tho not above sixteen by Land , has little forrain Trade , save only with Holland ; the chief Trade being with the City of London , the chief Commodities being Stuffs , and Stockings , which are made for the most part in the City ; it not being guessed , that less then one hundred thousand pounds-worth of Stuffs every Year are sent up to London ; which Stuffs making and disposing of are under the Government of two Companies , the one called the Worstes Company , the other the Russia Company : Those Manufactures under the Government of the Worsted Company ( and approved by the Wardens thereof ) have a Seal affixed to each , on the one side inscribed Norwich , on the other , such letters as stand for the Wardens Names , that are at the Sealing thereof . The other Seal has on one side these words , viz. Worsted Reformed , and on the other in Figures containing the quantity of Yards the Piece contains . Those called the Russia Company , the Manufacture , under whose Government to be approved , by them is Sealed on the one side with these words ▪ Fidelitas Artes alit . This Suff Trade is managed by Partner-Ship between the London and Norwich Merchants , great quantities whereof have been , and are exported to furnish other Nations , especially Spain , and the West-Indias . The Stockings here vended , are reckoned to amount to near sixty thousand pounds per Annum , being most knit by Children incapable of other Labour ; so that at eight Years of Age , many of them will earn four pence or six Pence a day ▪ these latter are not under any Governour , but have their Materials found them by certain Citizens , as well of that City , as of London , which when made into Hose , are sent over Sea , most of them , to furnish the Neighbour Nations . The County likewise affoards Sheep , Conies , and Kine in abundance , as also , store of Corn , especially Barly ; which being turned into Mault is sent up to London , as likewise into Scotland ; all Corn is sold according to the Custom of the Country by the Score , which is twenty Cooms , every Coome containing four Bushels , and to every Score one Coom is allowed over-plus . Their Weights and Measures , both dry and wet , are consistent to the London Weights and Measures . In the like manner abound Cambridgshire , Northamptonshire , Huntingtonshire , Leicestershire , Rutland , Lincolnshire , notinggamshire , Warwickshire , Worcestershire , Staffordshire , Shropshire , Cheshire , Herefordshire , Yorkshire , the County of Richmond , Bishoprick of Durham , Lancashire , Westmoreland , Cumberland , Northumberland . And the strong Town and Territories of Barwick upon Tweed , all abounding in store of things necessary and convenient for the profit and pleasure of man. In brief , England affoards more Merchandise than any one Nation in Europe , as Perpetuanas Bays , Says , Serges , Cotton , Woollen , Cloath of all sorts , Kersies , Buffins , Mocados , Grogram , Sattins , Calimancates , Velvets , Plushes , Worsted , Fustains , Durances , Tukes , Cony-Skins , Squiril-Skins , Fitches , Calf-Skins , Hides . Also by Mines it produceth , first by Tin twelve hundred thousand pounds yearly , Lead eight hundred Foders yearly , Allum eight hundred Tuns yearly , Iron of all sorts eight hundred Furnaces daily , Sea Cole yearly 50000000. Chaldron yearly , Salt 300000. Ways yearly ; as likewise all manner of Grain , as Oats , Wheat , Barly , Rye , Pease , &c. likewise Linnen Cloth , Tallow , Leather , Glass , and Glasses of all sorts , Venice , Gold , and Silver , Train Oyl , Salmon , Pilchards , Herrings , Conger , Haberdine , Hops , Wood , Cheese , Butter , Salt-Peter , Gunpowder , Honey , Wax , Alabaster , Wools , Yarns , and the like , too many here to insert . Nor is Wales in most parts less furnished , it consisting of the Isle of Anglesea , the shires of Flint , Denbigh , Carnarvon , Merioneth , Montgomery , Cardigan , Pembrook , Carmarden , Glamorgan , Radnor , Brecknock , Monmouth , abounding in Cattle , Pastures , divers useful Manufactures ; nor are the industry of the Inhabitants wanting to improve the product of their Country to the best advantage , being a frugal sort of People , insomuch that whereever they Plant themselves they are thrifty , and increase the smallest Stock to considerable advantage . Thus having taken a view of all England and Wales , viz. as to Traffick , and the native Commerce , London excepted : I shall now take a view of that great Metropolis , having purposely reserved her for the last , she being as Crown to the rest of the Nation , and indeed the Beauty of the Universe . CHAP. V. The Traffick of London . LOndon , the Mistriss of Cities , is placed upon the Banks of the River of Thames , whose Silver Ebbs and Flows continually wash her Beautiful Walls , she being supposed to be eight Miles in Circuit especially if the Liberties be included , and before the dreadful Conflagration in sixty six , was adorned with one hundred twenty two stately Churches , and now not guessed to contain less ( within the Circuit of her Liberties and all ) than 5 if not 600000. Souls , she being the Center of the Nation , and chief Receptacle of all Commodities , as well of the native growth , as from all Parts of the Earth , being the residence of the Merchants and Factors of all Trading Nations , abounding in the Riches of France , Spain , Holland , Denmark , Sweedland , Russia , Italy , Turky , Arabia , China , Persia , Egypt , both the Indias , and of all other Places where any Commerce is had , or from whence any Commodities are brought . For an instance of the greatness of her Trade and Traffick , I shall only insist upon the Levant Merchants , who yearly imploy four or five thousand Sailers , besides Porters , Weighers , Bargemen , Lightermen , Carmen , Shipwrights , Cankers , and others which cannot amount to less then three thousand more , and are not adjudged to pay less than five thousand pound per Annum for Customs . The Goods they export is Cloth , Tin , &c. for which they import Silks , Cottons , Galls , Grograms , Spices , Drugs , Currans , &c. The general Traders in this City are the Companies in the _____ Chapter , who Trade for ready money by Bills of Exchange , Verbal credit ; and some Trades deal one with another by Exchange of Commodities , by mutual allowance at such prices as the Commodity bears . The general way of buying valuable Merchandise , as to Inland Trade , is by keeping Factors in the Country , or by holding Correspondence with those that make it their business to improve Manufacture or keep Fairs and Marts , there to buy up Commodities of all sorts , when advantage offers . As for Merchandise imported from other Countries , the Royal Exchange is the place most proper for Bargains , where every day , Sunday and other high days excepted , between the Hours of 11. and 1. Merchants of all Nations meet and discourse of their affairs . The way of payment is , either to draw a Bill upon some Shop-Keeper , Merchant of London , or other Wealthy Person : Or upon some Correspondent beyond Sea ; which Bill specifies payment upon sight , or the time in which it is to be Payed ( which shall be more at large demonstrated when I come to Treat about Bills of Exchange ) or to take the Parties word for 3.6.9.12 . Months , or a Bill under his Hand for performance , for which there is no certain rule , but as those who Trade can agree . There are likewise several Persons imployed that are called Change-Broakers , who are usually imployed to buy up Commodities for Shopkeepers , as they see advantage , also to make returns of money , viz. for so much money received in London or any adjacent City , Town , or Village , you shall have a Bill to receive to the value of it in the Currant Coyn of France , Spain , Holland , or any other Neighbouring Country , where your Occasions require it . There is likewise an Office that if any Person delay , to pay a Bill he has accepted , and Trifle with him that is to receive the money , or refuse to accept of a Legal Bill , you may protest against the Party or Bill , which is entered , and may at any time be seen , that so men may be cautious in accepting Bills drawn upon any such Persons : If a Merchant fail in the World , it is no sooner known , but notice is given upon the Change. These , and many more are the ways and Customs of Managing Trade in the City of London ; but these are the Principal , and what remains shall be hereafter touched as I shall see Convenient . CHAP. VI. Of the currant Coyns of England as they have been setled by the Tower Standard , &c. MOney being the Life of Commerce , it will not be amiss to set down the several currant Coyns of Gold and Silver , according to their true Value , and as they go currant at this day , especially Silver , but Gold not unless full Weight , by Reason old Gold is sometimes diminished by keeping carelesly . The old Gold Coyns now currant are pieces of Twenty two Shillings Sterling , but currant at one pound five Shilling six pence . Pieces of eleven Shillings Sterling , currant at twelve Shillings six pence . Pieces of twenty Shillings Sterling , currant at one pound three Shillings six pence . Pieces of Ten Shillings Sterling , currant at eleven Shillings six pence . Pieces of five Shillings Sterling , currant at five Shillings nine pence . Pieces of two Shillings nine pence the 1 / ● part twenty two Shillings . Pieces of two Shillings six pence the 1 / ● part of twenty Shillings . The currant new Milled Gold. Pieces of five pound , currant at five pound seven Shillings six pence . Double Guinnies currant at two pound three Shillings , sometimes more ▪ Guinnies currant at one pound one Shilling six pence . Half Guinnies currant at Ten Shillings nine pence . The Silver currant Coyns are pieces of Five Shillings Sterling . Pieces of two Shillings six pence Sterling . Pieces of twelve pence called Shillings . Pieces of six pence Sterling . Pieces of thirteen pence half penny Sterling . Pieces of nine pence Sterling . Pieces of four pence half penny Sterling . Pieces of four pence Sterling . Pieces of three pence Sterling . Pieces of two pence Sterling . Pieces of one penny Sterling . Pieces of a half penny Sterling . Piece of a half penny of Copper . Pieces of one farthing of Copper . The Account thus , four Farthings make a Penny Sterling ; twelve Pence make a Shilling Sterling ; five Shillings make a Crown ; four Crowns make twenty Shillings , or one Pound ; tho some there be that Reckon by Marks , Nobles , and Angels , which is only in the remote parts of the Kingdom . A Noble is six Shillings and eight pence , a Mark thirteen Shillings and four pence , an Angel is two Crowns , or Ten Shillings . CHAP. VI. A view of the Weights and Measures used in England , as they are Established by Standard , and confirmed by the Laws of the Nation , and by Parliament . THe usual Weights that pass throughout England , are Troy Weight , and Averdupois-Weights ; the former consisting of twelve Ounces , each Ounce to consist of twenty Penny Weight , the Penny Weight to consist or twenty four Grains ; and this Weight is commonly used in Weighing of Bread , Gold , Silver ; all Physical matters , as Electuaries , Powders , and the like ; eight pounds of this Weight being reckoned to Weigh a Gallon , and from thence Multiplyed to any greater Measure ; four Gallons making a Peck , four Pecks a Bushel , and _____ Bushels a Quarter . Wet Measures are likewise derived from this Weight , both at Land and Sea , viz. twelve Troy Ounces is a Pint of Liquids , eight Pints a Gallon ; which of either Wine , Beer , or Ale , is eight pounds Troy , according to the Standard of the Exchequer , and Acts of Parliament of the XI . and XII . of Henry the seventh . And by this Rule the Coopers make their Casks for all vendible Assize , vix . a Hogshead to contain sixty three Gallons , a Tearce eighty four , a Pipe one hundred twenty six , a Tun two hundred fifty two Gallons ; as likewise all Casks made for packing up Fish , as a Salmon Butt to contain eighty four Gallons , the Barrel twenty four , a Herring Barrel thirty two , an Eele Barrel forty two , a Sope Barrel thirty two Gallons , the lesser Casks to be divided accordingly . The other Weight , viz. Averdupois , wherewith is Weighed Butter , Cheese , Flesh , Wax , all manner of Grocery , and indeed most Commodities vended in England ; it consists of sixteen Ounces to the pound , and is called Garbel , by Reason a Draught or Wast is allowed to every weighing : Seven pound of this Weight is accounted to weigh a Gallon of Wheat , and so Multiplyed to fifty six pound the Bushel ; seven pound Averdupois , is one hundred and two Ounces of Troy ; from whence it is accounted that a Bushel of Wheat must weigh one hundred and twelve pound , and a quarter four hundred forty eight pounds Averdupois , and so consequently fourteen pound Averdupois is sixteen pound eleven Ounces Troy ; and as one penny Sterling is the twentieth part of an Ounce Troy , so seven pound twelve Shillings Sterling is eighty four Ounces , a half and two penny Weight of Troy , and six pound eight Shillings Sterling , is eighty two pound ¾ Ounce , and one penny Weight ; and from these two are the Weights of Houshold , Wheaten and White Bread Calculated . The Weigh of Cheese is by Averdupois , and runs thus . The Weigh of Cheese one hundred and twelve pound Averdupois , and the two hundred containing two hundred twenty four pounds , consists of thirty four Cloves , every Clove being seven pound . The Weigh of Suffolk Cheese is two hundred fifty six , and the Weigh of Essex Cheese three hundred thirty six pound Averdupois . A Sack of Wool was accounted three hundred fifty four pound Averdupois : two Weighs of Wool make a Sack , and two Sacks a Last . The last of Herrings is ten thousand , every one thousand to contain ten hundred , and every hundred sixscore , that is , before they are Barrell'd . Lead is sold by the Fodder , containing nineteen hundred and ½ at one hundred and twelve per cent . Averdupois . This Weight likewise of sixteen Ounces to the pound is made three several Quintars for Weighing several sorts of Merchandise ; the first is of fivescore pound just to the hundred , and called one hundred Sutle , whereby fine Commodities as Spices , Drugs , and the like are sold , which are accounted by the pound , and to which over and above is allowed by the Seller four pound , upon one hundred and four pound taken from the overplus , derived from the Weights of Antwerp for Spices , and called by the name of Tret . The second of the Quintars is one hundred and twelve , viz , fivescore and twelve to the hundred , by which all Gross Commodities are weighed . The third is sixscore to the hundred , by which Tinn is weighed to his Majesties Farmers , and some other few Commodities ; and is called by the name of the Stannery hundred . From this Averdupois Weight , by division the Weight called the Stone , which is twofold , the long , and the short ; the long is accounted four pounds Averdupois , and the short eight , but in this there is no certainty , for it differs according to the Customs of Counties and Markets . There is an other thing in use called a Tod , some places seven pound , others eight , and some again ten , being altogether variable . They have likewise a Clove of twenty pound , twenty eight pound , thirty two pound , and the like . There are likewise in most Markets for weighing of Flesh Stillyards used , but without the Approbation of the Buyers ; they being unintelligible to many , and oftentimes false ; first invented for the Weighing Hay , and Straw , for which uses indeed they are only proper . Averdupois consists of sixteen Ounces , every Ounce consisting of eight Drams , and every Dram of sixty Grains ; so that by it the Raw-Silk of Persia , and Turky , are sold , but then twenty four Ounces are allowed to the pound , or a pound and an half , &c. Thus having distinguished these Weights which are of such use in this Nation , it is not amiss that I shew you what accord the one hundred and twelve pound Suttle has with other Nations , and Places of Traffick , as for the Equality of Weight tho they differ in number . In Europe , it agrees with the Weights of Mersella , the Venetia Sotile , the Venetia Gross , Sicilia , Lisbon , Florence , Anvers , Lions , Sevil , Dantzick , Bruges . In Africa , and Asia , with the Weights of Aleppo , Aleppo , Tripoly , Syria , Tripoly , Barbaria , Alexandrio-Zera , Alexandria , Forfar , Forfar , Scio , Constantinople , Rhodes , Acria , Babylon , Balsola , and Ormus . And thus you see , Reader , the Industry and Improvement of the English Nation , which now I must leave , and take a View of Scotland . CHAP. VIII . A view of Scotland , and the Trade thereof in General , together with the Coyns , Customs , and Increase of that Ancient Kingdom . SCotland ( by Reason of it's continuing a distinct Kingdom for so many hundred Years , even till the happy Union by King James , and indeed does yet in most things , unless the Prerogative Royal ) is thought worthy to be Treated of seperately , tho indeed , the North part of Brittain , and only seperated from England by the Rivers Tweed , Salway , and the Cheviot-Hills . It 's chief City is Edenburg , which contains the Kings Pallace , the Courts of Justice , & consists of one great Street , of a Mile in Length ; into which all the Petty Streets and Lanes open . The next chief Cities and Towns are Glasgow , ( the See of an Arch-Bishop , and an University ) St. Andrews , Sterling , Perth , Aberdeen , Dondes , St. John's Town , &c. The currant Money consists of Gold and Silver , and are as followeth . Pieces of twenty two Shillings Sterling . Pieces of eleven Shillings Sterling . Pieces of five Shilings six pence Sterling . Pieces of two Shillings nine pence Sterling . Pieces of four Shillings four pence ⅜ Sterling . Pieces of one Shilling one half penny Sterling . Pieces of nine Shillings six pence , being ⅔ of the thirteen pence half penny . One Mark. Pieces of four pence half penny Sterling . But note that thirteen pence half penny Sterling , is accounted a Scotch Mark , or thirteen Shillings four pence Scotch ; six-pence three-farthings , a Scotch Noble , accounted six Shillings and eight pence ; twenty pence Sterling is accounted a Mark and a half Scotch , or one pound Scotch , of twenty Shillings Sterling is eighteen Scotch Marks ; so that Strangers unacquainted with their Money hearing them discourse about it think them far Richer then they are . They have other Pieces of Copper Money of small Value , as Babaes , Bodles , hard Heads , and the like ; but indeed they have Principally the money of England , which is currant in that Kingdom , and of late have abounded in Silver . The chief Commodities of the Country are Cloath , Freezes , Fish , Hides , Salt , Lead Ore , Tallow , Grain of all sorts , Feathers , Iron , Allum , Seacoal , commonly called Scotch-Coal , and are divided into two parts , viz. The Highland , and Lowland , which are divided into Sherifdoms , and Fifes . They have an Exchange in imitation of ●urs at London , but especially used for the Exchange of monies with England . The keeping of their accounts , divers ways ; some keep them according to the Method of England , others according to the Ancient use and Custom of their own Nation , which is in Marks valuable as aforesaid . Their Weight for weighing Merchandise is but one , and with that they buy and sell throughout the Kingdom ; it contains sixteen Ounces to the pound , and one hundred of those pounds make their Quintal ; which in England is one hundred and eight pounds Averdupois ; and one hundred pound London Suttle Weight makes ninety two of theirs , or one hundred and twelve English one hundred and three and a half of Scotch ; their Measures for Linnen , Stuffs , Cloath , or Silk , is the Ell which is wanting of ours , insomuch that it differs from our Yard four per cent . that is , four Yards in a hundred Ells , so that seventy five Yards , or sixty Ells English make seventy two Scotch , but in Tale to every hundred they Reckon six-score . In Measure for Corn , Coals , Salt , Wine , Beer , Ale , Oyl , and the like , they come near at one with ours . Their Navigation is but small , for the most part Trading with England , and Ireland , yet are they a People frugal and much bent to improve the growth of their Country . And thus having taken a view of Scotland , and the Trade thereof I must pass over into Ireland the third Diamond in the British Diadem . CHAP. IX . A view of Ireland , and of the Trade , Manners , and Present State of that Kingdom . IReland , is divided into four Provinces , viz. Lempster , Munster , Connought , Vlster , and Meath , and is four hundred Miles in Length , and two hundred in Breadth , the chief Cities and Towns are Dublin , Kinnsail , London Derry , Limrick , Cork , Waterford , Armah , Dungannon , Marleburg , Phillips-Town , Kildare , and Tradah . This Kingdom abounds in Navigable Rivers , store of Fish , Cattle , and Hides ; which are Transported into Spain , France , and Italy ; Salmon are caught in such abundance in July , and August , that many Servants in the places of that Fishery , Covenant with their Master upon their being hired , that they will not feed upon Salmon , but only so many days in a Week . These they Salt and Barrel up , sending them into all the Neighbouring Countries , where they are received as good Merchandise ; the Herring Fishery is likewise used and improved by them , as likewise Pilchards , which are taken in August , September , and October ; and Transported into Spain , France , and the Streights of Gibraltar : they have store likewise of Butter , Cheese , Calves-Skins , and other necessary Commodities : Their Corn for the most part is the same with ours , yet in value not the same , for a pound Sterling Irish , is worth , according to the Intrinsick value , no more then fifteen Shillings English , and the Shilling consequently but nine pence Sterling , six pence Irish but four pence half penny Sterling . The Exchange is practised in the City of Dublin , but of little use as to any Transmarine Places , unless England , and there Principally London and Bristol , commonly running at eight pence upon the pound , or at most but one Shilling , which is but five pound per cent . The Weights and Measures are ( or for the most part ) consistent to those of England , and in fine it is a Country exceeding fertil , abounding in all things necessary for the use of man , which would turn to great advantage , were the Inhabitants but Industrious , especially in fitting out Ships for Navigation ; but they for the most part roave abroad , improving other Countries , and neglecting their own . Their chief Merchandise are in Fish , which they send into France , Spain , England , Scotland , and other parts of Europe . And thus I shall leave this Kingdom and return , or rather Sail round Brittain , to take a View of the Islands of the Sea , or Ocean Islands . CHAP. X. A view of the Ocean Islands , and of their Trade , viz. such as are Subject to his Majesty of great Britain . THe Ocean Islands are scattered in the British Sea like so many Pearls to adorn the Imperial Diadem , and are first , the Orcades , or Isles of Orkney , thirty two in number . The chief of which is Pomonia , which abounds in Mines of Tinn and Lead : The next Hethy ; and the other ( there being only three of them of note ) Shethland bearing Fruit-Trees of strange kinds . Especially those whose Blossoms dropping into the Warter become Flying Birds . The next are the Islands of the Hebrides , in number forty four ; the chief whereof is Illa , abounding with store of Venison . And Jona , famous for the Sepulchers of the Scottish Kings ; as likewise Mulla , where the Redshanks inhabit , once so fearful to England ; the rest are of little note . The Islands called the Sorlings are one hundred forty five : The Principal are Armath , Agnes , Samson , and Scilly , after which name all the rest are called . The Inhabitants thereof Trade in Fishery , sow Corn , and addict themselves to Manufacture . The Isle of Man , is a square Island , being ten Miles in Length , and as many in Breadth ; the growth of it is Flax , Hemp , Oats , Barly , and Wheat , having store of Cattle and other Merchandise brought in thither by Shipping ; the chief Towns are Ballacury , Russin , or Chasteltown . The Isle of Anglesey , is accounted a Shire of Wales ; and by some called the Mother of Wales , being twenty four Miles in Length , and seventeen Miles over ; Fruitful it is , even beyond report , in Corn , Fruits , Cattle , Fowl , and Fish ; improved by several Profitable Manufactures : The Inhabitants making great store of Butter and Cheese , and send out of it yearly three thousand Head of Cattle : It 's chief Town is Beaumaris , very Commodious for Shipping . Jersey is a fair Island , in Compass twenty Miles , peopled with Industrious Inhabitants , yearly improving their Commodidities and vending them to good advantage . Trading with England and France especially , famous for the many fine Orchards and Gardens : the chief Towns and places of Traffick being St. Mallo , and St. Hillary ; the former being nightly Guarded without the Walls . From this Island twenty Miles distant is Guernsey , Surrounded with spacious Harbours ; and in every part Fertile , stored with Cattle , and lying Commodious for Shipping , Facing the Coast of France ; and hath for it's chief Town St. Peters . The last of the Isles Surrounding Britain , is the famous Isle of Wight , which is twenty Miles long , and twelve over , and abounds with all things wherewith England is stored , divided from Portsmouth but by an Arm of the Sea , lying most Commodious for the Reception of Shipping ; and for it 's chief Towns has Yarmouth , New-Port , and Bradring . And thus much for the Islands of the Sea , surrounding Britain : And now I shall only take a short Survey of some things further appertaining to the Trade of Britain , and so Lanch into the Ocean , and take a view of the remotest Parts of the World , especially such as are Traded to by the English . What more remains , is an account of such Commodities of English-growth and Manufacture , as are Exported , being Staple Commodities , and the common Cargo of outward bound Vessels . CHAP. XI . A further Account of the Measures of England , with a true Proportion of the Weight of English Cloths . FIrst , for the Breadth , Measure and Weight of English-Cloath , that chief of Staple-Commodities , Kent , York , and Redding Cloaths are six quarters and a half broad , and ought to weigh eighty six pounds ; the Cloath in the Peice are in length thirty , and thirty four Yards . Suffolk , Norfolk , and Essex Cloaths of seven quarters wide , are eighty pounds Weight , twenty nine and thirty two Yards in Length . Worcester , Coventry , and Hereford Cloaths of six quarters and a half , are in Weight seventy eight pound , and in Measure thirty , & thirty three Yards . Glocester , Oxon , and Wiltshire , and Summersetshire Cloaths , of seven quarters wide weigh seventy six pounds , and in length twenty nine , and thirty two Yards . Suffolk Sorting Cloaths of six quarters and a half wide , ought to weigh sixty four pound , and to be in length twenty four and twenty six Yards . All sorts of Cloaths that are six quarters and a half wide , ought to weigh sixty pound , and be twenty four and twenty six Yards in length ; broad and narrow Yorkshire of four quarters wide , weigh thirty pound , and in length are twenty four , and twenty five Yards . Broad-Cloath of Taunton , Dunstable , and Bridg-Water of seven quarters , weigh thirty pound the Cloath , and in Measure are twelve , and thirteen Yards . Devonshire Kersies , and Dossens of four quarters , weigh thirteen pounds , in Measure twelve , and thirteen Yards . Chequer Kersies , Grays , Striped and Plain of four quarters are in Weight twenty four pound , in Measure seventeen , and eighteen Yards . Ordinary Penistons or Forrests of three quarters and a half , in Weight twenty eight pound , in Measure twelve and thirteen Yards . Sorting Peniston of six quarters and a half are pounds thirty five , Yards thirteen and fourteen . Washers of Lancashire and others the Cloaths are seventeen pounds in Weight , in Measure seventeen and eighteen Yards . This Custom of assizing Cloaths at a certain Weight was first imposed for the preventing defrauds in making slight sleasy , or imperfect Cloaths , and if any of the aforesaid Cloaths prove otherwise then is specifyed , the maker , or seller , ought to allow according to the want , either in Width , Length , or Weight , and for so refusing , may be sued for a defraud . To bring this to perfection the Weight of Wool is thus , the Sack of Wool doth contain three hundred sixty four pounds , the Tod twenty eight pound , thirteen Tods being accounted to a Sack ; every Tod being four Nales , and every Nail , seven pound : The Sack of Wool is imputed to finish four Standard Cloaths , of twenty four Yards each in length , & six Yards & half quarter wide , of sixty pound Weight , commonly called Sorting Cloaths . In the Weight it is to be noted whether the Cloaths are thick Mill'd , well scoured , and throughly dryed , that the same be Measured by the Yard , and that an Inch be allowed to every Yard : And thus much for Woollen Manufacture . And now I am entering on Ship-Board , to view the World , and to pass the unfathomed Paths of the Deep . It will not be amiss to give a more full tho brief account of the Measures whereby such things are Measured as are sent on Board for the Subsistance of those that go down into the Deep , &c. as thus , the English Measures for all Grain according to the Statues in that case made and provided are the Pint , Quart , Pottle , Gallon . A Gallon being eight Pints , four Quarts , two Potles ; the Peck two Gallons , the half Bushel , two Pecks , the Bushel , two half Bushels , the Strike two Bushel , the Cornock two Strikes , the Quarter , two Cornocks . The Weigh either of Corn or Salt is forty six Bushels ; and the Last is eighty Bushels . Note in Salt Water Measure is allowed , viz. five Pecks to the Bushel . Liquid Measures thus , the Ale Firkin to contain eight Gallons , Kilderkin sixteen , and the Barrel thirty two . A Beer Firkin ought to contain nine Gallons , the Firkin eighteen , and the Barrel thirty six ; the Kilderkin of Wine ought to be eighteen Gallons , the Barrel thirty one , the Hogs-Head sixty three , the Tertian eighty four , the Butt , or Pipe one hundred twenty six , the Tun two hundred fifty two . A Runlet of Oyl ought to be eight Gallons and a half , a Hogs-Head sixty three , a Pipe one hundred twenty six , and the Tun one hundred fifty two ; tho as to Oyl in the Measure thereof , the Custom of London differs from the Statute , allowing but seven pound to each Gallon , and by that means the Tun is reduced to one hundred thirty six , and so at this day 't is sold ; and thus far having proceeded to give those that are desirous to Trade , or Traffick , either by Land , or Sea , an insight into most of the English growth , and Manufactures ; I shall now hoise up Sail and bear before the Wind , not intending to cast Anchor till my adventurous Bark arrive in the late discovered America , to take a View of the Trade and Traffick thereof , and from thence into Affrick , so to Asia , and then to Europe , all along observing the Cities , Towns , Ports , Havens , Bays , either in Continent or Island ; in whatsoever place the English have any Traffick of note ; or any other European Navigators . CHAP. XII . A View of America , of it's Provinces , and the Trade thereof . AMerica , the so long unknown Part of the World , was first discovered by Columbus , a Genoese , at the charge of Ferdinand and Isabella , King and Queen of Castile ; who setting sail from Sevil , after sixty three days , discovered that vast Continent , which was seconded by Amerious Vesputius , a Florentine , at the charge of Emanuel King of Portugal , who making a perfect Discovery of that Golden place , had the Honour to have it called by his Name . The next that made any considerable discovery , was Sebastian Cabbot , a Native of Bristol , being furnished out for that purpose by our King Henry the seventh ; and since him several of our English Navigators have improved his Discovery , as Sr. Francis Drake , Willowby , Candish , Burroughs , Forbisher , Davis , &c. This Immensity is for the most part possessed by the Spaniards , and divided into two parts , viz. Mexicana , and Peruana ; and the former again divided into these following Provinces , viz. Mexico , Nicaragua , Quivira , Jucutan , Florida , Virginia , New-England ; Nurembega , Nova Francia , Corterialis , and Estotilandia . The Commodities of Mexico ( now called Nova Hispania , the Residence of the Spanish Viceroy , and Arch-Bishop ) are Gold , Silver , Sugar , Tobacco , Ginger , Tallow , Hides , and Spices ; and above all , in that Province grows a Tree , called both by the Spaniards , and Natives , a Mettle Tree , the Leaves of which make Confections , Paper , Mats , Flax , Mantles , Shoes , Girdles , Cordage , and Saws , and out of the Root Issues a Juice , which being boyled is perfect Sugar ; & from the Top-Branch , a Gum distills Excellent against Poysons , or Infectious Vapours . This City was taken by the Spaniards , under the Leading of Harnando Cortes , Anno 1521. Quivira , is accounted the second Province , situate on the Western part of America , first Peopled with Spanish Colonies , under the leading of Vasques Anno. 1540. It abounds chiefly in Cattle ; several wh● addict themselves to the bringing them up being Masters of 30000. Head and upwards , which serve the Inhabitants with their Milk for Drink , their Flesh for Food , and their Skins for Cloaths . They have likewise some Gold , but of small value , and not worth refining . Nicaragua , is on the South-West of Mexico , and has for it's chief City Nova-Granada . It 's Commodities chiefly consisting of Balsom , Cotton , Wax , and Hony. Jucutan , discovered Anno ▪ 1517 , has for it's chief City Champechio ; this Province yields Wood for dying Rich Colours , and likewise store of Deer and Cattle , almost like Elks. Florida was discovered by Sebastian Cabot Anno 1467. which at that time it was possessed by the Spaniards , with whom the French made War till they consumed each others people , to that degree that it was abandoned by either Nation , but since repeopled by the Spaniards , who have built there several strong Forts . The Commodities are Gold Ore , some Veins of Silver , some Spices , and Woods of value . And thus much of those Provinces the Spaniards possess . Now I shall come to Treat of Virginia and New-England possessed by the English . CHAP. XIII . A View of Virginia , and of the Trade , Manners , Customs , and Government thereof , and of the Commodities of that Colony . VIrginia being discovered by Sir Walter Raleigh , Anno 1584. had it's name from our Virgin Queen ; it lying in height thirty five degrees North Latitude , and extends to thirty eight and a half , being planted by the English only from 37 to 34 degrees , under the Protection and Supream Authority of his Majesty of great Britain , & having the Bay of Roanoake , and Cape Florida to the Southward , and Mary-land to the Northward . The main entrance out of Virginia into the Sea , is about 10 Leagues ; the Country is full of Navigable Rivers , stored with Fish , and some of them abounding with Oysters , Crabs , and Sturgeon , many of the Rivers being 7 , 8 , 9 , or 10 Miles over , running 140 and 150 Miles up in the Country , so that Ships Anchor with great Security , no Trade being permitted but with England . So that as soon as any Vessel arrives , the Master , or Captain , resorts to the Governour , to give him an account from whence he came , his Residence being for the most part at Jame's City lying 40 Miles up Jame's River ; and round about the English Colony , the Indians Inhabit , whose Treacheries prove too often fatal to our Country-men , as the several Massacrees they have made can testifie . Their Courts of Judicature chiefly consist of 4 quarterly Courts , the Governour and his Council being Judges , to try and determine , as well in matters Criminal , as Suits between man and man , and every year once an Assembly meet in imitation of our Parliament , to settle weighty Affairs . Their Laws are the same with ours , as likewise what Monies they have are of English Coyn. The Soil is every-where Fertile , and the Woods abound with Oaks of divers sorts , Black Wall-nuts , Chess-nuts , Ash , Pine , Day-Wood , Cedar , Saxafras , Mulbury , Small-nuts , Wild Grapes , and the like . The Weather is much like ours , only in the Summer continues a Month longer hotter , and are troubled with Flashes of Light'ning , dismal Claps of Thunder , and now and then a Hurricane . The days are about an Hour and an half shorter in Summer , and so much longer in Winter . All sorts of English Fruits and Cattle thrive there , and their chief Commodities ▪ amongst themselves are Horses , Oxen , Sheep , Hogs , Turkies , Geese , & Ducks . Corn of which they have store , and their Woods abound with Hairs , Roacoons , Possums , Squirrils , Wild-Cats , Foxes , Bears , Wolves , Elks , and in remote Parts some Lyons are found . Their Corn called Indian Corn or Maiz they buy and sell by the Barrel , which Barrel contains 5 Bushels , Winchester Measure , and the Indians sell their Corn , Pease and other Commodities of the like nature amongst themselves by the Baskets , each Basket containing half a Bushel . The chief Commodities they Trade with our Merchants for , except Tobacco , of which I shall speak anon , are Hides , Otter , Beaver , Muskats , Bear , Dear-Skins , Saxafras , Black-Walnut-Tree-Planks , &c. with them and Tobacco 40 or 50 Ships are yearly Loaden ; no Customs being lay'd upon any thing imported , or exported ; but in England they pay five per cent . for all they carry over , and 2 pence per pound for every pound of Tobacco brought from thence , and so proportionably for other Goods . The Commodities carryed from England thither , are Linnen , and Woollen-Cloath , Nailes , Iron wrought into Tools , Sope , Starch , Gunpowder , Shot , Wine , Strong-Water , Brandy , Sugar , Spice , and the like ; and when any one comes over with Servants to Inhabit , as a Planter , he has 50 Acres of Land allotted him , to manure even where he will choose , unless in such Places as are before in Possession ; and for that Parcel of Land , he pays 12 pence per Annum quit Rent . The manner of planting , and bringing to perfection their Tobacco , accounted by them the Staple Commodity of the Colony is thus ; in January they sow the Seed , which is smaller than Mustard-Seed , and when it comes up , they take up the Plants , and place them upon little Hills , which is usually done in May , 4 or 5000. Hills being contained in one Acre , every Hill containing a Plant , the which when it is about 2 ▪ Foot high , they Crop to give more Nourishment to the Leaves , which Leaves are a Foot or two Foot long , and some a Foot broad ▪ and when they are at the bigest they cut them up Stalk and all , and hang them up in Sheads to dry , which done they strip them from the Stalks , and so bind them up in Handfuls for packing in Casks , or make them up in Rolls . An Acre of good Ground is reckoned to bear 1500 Weight of Tobacco , not less then 17000. Hogs-heads , being reckoned to be Shipped yearly for England , Scotland , and Ireland . Their Servants for the most part consist of Negroes , which they buy of the Merchants , that bring them thither . CHAP. XIV . A View of New-England , and the Trade thereof . NEw-England has for it's chief Town or City Boston , where all their Trade Centres , especially that which accrues by Navigation ; a place which contains about 1500 houses Built of Brick and Timber ; in it is a State House , and Congregational Meeting-Houses ; the Inhabitants for the most part being Presbyterians , and Independants ; and are supplyed with great Quantities of Fish from Marblehead , and other places . As for Fowl , they Trade with the Indians , as likewise for Muscat , Beaver , Otter , &c. for which they deliver them Strong-Waters , Shagged-Cloath , Beads , Looking-Glasses , and the like ; and thither likewise are brought Provisions from St. Martins , Long Island , Road Island , Shelter Island ; and other places , they all being little spots , standing in the Sea , and have their Trade chiefly consisting in Provision . The chief Roads for the safe Riding of Shipping are Boston , Charlestown , Salem , and Pascataqua . A Mint they have , in which they Coyn English money , as 12 pence , 6 pence , 3 pence , and smaller piece , both Silver and Tinn . The Reason of setting it up , was upon the spreading of many adulterated Pieces of Eight amongst them , brought from Peru ; but notwithstanding the English Coyn , Mexico , and Sevil Royals , go currant at a Crown apiece . Their Accounts are kept after the Italian Fashion , by such as understand the way , and those that do not keep them as in old England . Their Weights are Averdupois , and Troy ; the former consisting of 16 Ounces the pound , and the latter of twelve ; their hundred Averdupois is 112 pounds , and by that they weigh all their gross Commodities , using Troy only for Silk , Gold , and Silver . Their Measures are likewise consistent with ours . Their chief Merchandise consists in Hogs , Oxen , Fish , Flower , Pease , Kell , or Rice , Biskets , Beaver , Muskat Skins , Otter , Pipe-Staves , Masts , and the like ; and some Tobacco , for which they receive in exchange English Linnen , and Woollen-Cloath , Iron-Tools , Stockins , Shoes , Thred , Buttons , Ribons , Lead , Puter , Tinn , small Ordnance , Gunpowder , Shot , Strong Waters , Wines , Oyls , Fruit , Salt , and the like ; not taking any Customs for ought imported , except Wines , and Strong Waters , and for that not above 30 or 40 Shillings per Tun ; Consolage they take none , their Factorage is from 5 to 10 per cent . for Sails and returns only , and that not fixed , but as the Trader , and the Factor can agree . Sugars they have likewise , which they sell in Casks , and have not many Ships belonging to the Plantation . Their chief Fishing consists in dry Cod , and poor Jack , which every Spring and Fall , they take by Hooks , and sell by the Quintal , or hundred Weight , each for 28. or 30 Royals , sometimes more , tho sometimes they Barrel them up ; their Fraight per Tun from thence to London , is 3 pound , 3 pound 10 Shillings , and sometimes 4 pound . They have likewise an Office of Assurance , now much in request , both by the Inhabitants , and such as Trade thither . And thus much for New-England . CHAP. XV. A View of Mary-Land , and of the Customs and Trade thereof . MAryland is upon the main Continent of America , being an English Colony , lying between 38 and 40 Degrees North Latitude , bounded on the North by Virginia , and on the South by New-England ; the great Ocean on the East , and on the West the River Pattowmeck , and was first a Colony of English , Anno 1633. and for the better Increase of Trade , tolerate the Christian Religion of what Profession soever ; and is held by a Governour , or Proprietor , in Fee of the Crown of England . It abounds with fair Rivers , stored with Fish , and Commodious for the receipt of Shipping . The usual way of Trading is Goods for Goods , and the chief of their Commodities is Tobacco ; their Weights , and Measures are consonant with those of England , without any Tret or over allowance ; some Beaver , Otter , and other Furs they have , which the English that Trade thither purchase , and the Inhabitants receive them for Tobacco , and Strong-Water of the Indians . Mulberry Trees are there in Abundance , and some Silk . Their Customs or Taxes are but seldom taken as to the Subjects of England . The greatest abuse that Merchants receive , is the Packing of Tobacco ; which loose Packed , or either too dry or wet put up , often deceives their Expectations ; therefore the only way to discover such Frauds , is by weighing it . A full Hogs-Head , well Packed , will hold 400 Weight , and never less than 300. For their Commodities , they receive Cloath-Hangings , Stuffs , all manner of Iron-Ware , Strong-Water , Wine , and the like ; and what they Trade with the Native Indians for , they deliver them Coats , commonly called Match-Coats , made of coarse Shagged-Cloath , Dutch-Duffields , or English Hogbays , either Red or Blew . The new Netherlands , a place Situate in 41 Degrees North Latitude , upon Hudson's River , is Inhabited by a Colony of the Dutch , who have Incroached upon the English Trade with the Natives for Beavor , Otter , Elk-Skins , Bears-Skins , Dear-Skins , and the like ; for which they deliver them Iron Instruments , and Shaged Cloath , and sometimes Guns , Powder , and Rapier-Blades , the fatal Execution of which they have twice felt by two Massacrees , Committed upon them by the Indians , to the loss of half their Colony . Their chief Town is New-Amsterdam , indowed with many Priviledges , as the old the better to draw People thither . Corterialis , Nurembega , and Nova Francia , are accounted Mexican Provinces , and for the most part possessed by the French , and some few Portugals . Their Trade is small , consisting only of Skins , and Furs . Estotiland , or New-foundland , discovered 1527 by the English , in Winter is so Extream cold , that it is not inhabited but by some few Natives , and all the advantage ( which indeed is considerable ) that the English Reap thereby , is their Fishing Trade ; the Fish in England being known by the Name of Newland Fish , and is taken in such abundance , that with them are furnished most parts of Europe . The manner of the Fishing thus : The Ships sometimes 40 Sail depart from our Coast , about the end of February , and about the middle of April arriving there , they unrigg their Ships , and going on Shoar Build Huts ; and in Shallops , with Hooks and other Tackling , take sometimes 30 or 40 great Fish in an Hour , that is one Shallop , which they slit and dry upon Rocks , and Sandy-Banks ; after which they Salt them , and in such manner continue till September ; when loaden with their Fish they return and dispose of them in Spain , France and other Places to good advantage , selling them either by the hundred Weight , or by Tail ; and many times they sell them before they have caught 'em ; that is , Bargain for the delivery of them when taken ; and of late there is an Art found of making Oyl commonly called New-Land Oyl . CHAP. XVI . A View of the Peruanan Provinces , and of their Trade and Customs . THis South part of America , is divided from the North part , by the Streights of Darien , a Neck of Land of 10 Miles over ; and consists of these Pro-Provinces , viz. Castella-Aurea , Guinnia , Peru , Brasilia and Chile . Castella Aurea , takes its Name from the abundance of Gold that is found therein , and was first discovered by the Spaniards : The chief Cities are Portabel , and Panama , at which two Places the Viceroy makes his Residence as he sees fit , and at the Latter of which the Spanish Plate-fleet for the most part is Loaded . It abounds with standing Pools and deep Waters , and the chief Commodities are Spices , Drugs , Gold Ore , and Silver . About it are several small Islands , of which the chiefest are , St. Antonio , and St. Vincent , situate against Cape Verd. Guinnia is situated under the Equinoctial Line , being fruitful in all parts , abounding with rate Fruits , and so Incompassed and branched with great Rivers , that in Winter time many of the Inhabitants dwell in Trees for fear of Inundations , often caused by the overflowing of the Rivers . Of this Countrey our famous Sir Walter Reighley made the first effectual Survey , and gave Name to the great River Arinoque calling it Ralinia , a River navigable for 1000 miles , and for Shallops and Wherries 2000. The chief City of this Province is Manoa , otherwise called the Golden City , of the abundance of Gold that is found therein , most of the Trade consisting of Gold-Ore . Peru is for Gold , the richest Province of America : The Mines being more plentiful then Mines of Lead and Iron in England , and the Riches thereof may be Conjectured by this : When Piscario the Spanish Captain subdued it , and took the King Prisoner , he proposed his Ransom , and delivered to the treacherous Spaniard upon solemn Promise for his Life and Liberty , as much refined Gold and Silver as amounted to ten Millions , but perfidious as he was , when he had Possession of the Treasure notwithstanding his Oath , he slew him . The chief City is St. Michael's , inhabited by the Spaniards ; the Soyl brings forth all manner of Fruits , as likewise store of Tobacco ; but one thing is more admirable , on the Banks of the River Riolaplata grow Figtrees , one side of which bear Figs in Winter , and the other in Summer , and this River is 130. miles over , and 2000. in length ; and in it are many Islands . Brasile is abounding with Cattel , Corn , and has in it some rich Mines of Gold and Silver ; but especially Red-Wood by us , called Brasile Wood , the Trees of which are so large , that a dozen Families will make themselves Huts and dwell in the Branches of one Tree . It was first discovered and peopled by the Spaniard , but now the Dutch have got strong footing in it , and derive a great Trade form thence , especially in dying-Woods . The manner of getting the Gold in these remote Parts of the World , are by Mining , or Washing and Fishing ; As thus , they first search the ground , and finding it stockt with Ore , they dig into the Mountains , and still as they go under-prop , or Arch , so that a Mine sometimes is a Furlong under ground ; their Earth they wash through Sieves , and the Mold separated , the Gold appears . Silver run in Veins or Sprigs , and therefore is got more easily . As for the Fishing for Gold , it is thus : They turn the Course of small Rivers or Brooks , at the bottom of the Golden Mountains ; or with such things as take up Ballast in the Thames , drag up the Sand , and then sift it . The Gold which is found in the Rivers is washed from the Mountains , by the fierce Rains which in those parts are frequent . As for the Islands in these and the Virginian Seas , they are many ; as the Isles of Solomon , by some taken for the Land of Ophir ; the Isle of Margarita , in which is found many precious Stones , though void of any other Commodity ; the Island of Trenidado abounding in choice Tobacco ; the Island of Baccaloes , discovered by Sebastian Cabot , whose Rivers abound in Fish , and the Land with Trees bearing Fruit ; the Isle of Beriguen , of which the chief City is St. John's , inhabited by the Spaniards , the Island abounds with Gold , viz. the North part of it , and the South part is as much famed for fertility ; the Island of Jamiaca , now an English Colony taken from the Spaniards , Anno. _____ abounds with all manner of Plenty , as Sheep , Oxen , Corn , Hens , Geese , Ducks , Fruit-Trees , Sugar , Tobacco and the like , and is governed by a Governour , under his Majesty of Great Brittain ; the Weights , Measures , Monies , Laws and Religion , are the same with ours , and has of late been much increased by the Trading of English Merchants thither for Pepper , and other valuable Commodities . Cuba , Luca and Hispaniola , abound in Ginger , Cassia , Mastick , Almonds , Cinnamon , Sugar , Brass , Gold , and Corn , which are brought thence , and dispersed all over Europe , and in the latter , the Land is so fertile that it will produce Herbs , and Roots in sixteen days after setting or sowing , fit for use . Barmudos is a fruitful Island , abounding with Orange-Trees and other Fruits . Barbados is an Island possessed by the English , containing in length 28. miles , and in breadth 18. and according to Computation consists of 126000. Acres of good Land , being naturally fortified with Rocks and Shelves : accommodated with several Bays and Harbours , for the safety of shipping , the Principal of which is called Carlile Bay , and is Guarded by Forts and Platforms , containing a large Town called St. Michael's , being a place of great Trade , before which 500. Ships may safely Ride . The next Town of Note , is Charles Town , situate on Oysten-bay , about two Leagues from the former , the Houses are built after the English fashion , of Timber , Lime and Brick , and round this Island lye other small Islands , Maevis , Monsirat , Antego , and St. Christophers , many of them inhabited by the English , others by the Dutch , French , and Native Indians ; the Island of Barbados is divided into 11. Parishes , or petty Shires , out of which are chosen two Freemen Planters , to joyn with the Governour and his Council , which are 7 , to discuss all important Matters , and to make such Orders , as are necessary for the well regulating the Plant●tion , and the better to quell any Insurrec●n that may be made by the Slaves , which are ●ccounted at least 60000. a standing Militia of two Reigments of Horse , and five of Foot , are in readiness upon all Occasions , and all their Laws and Customs are Regulated by those of England . Their Religion , according as they profess themselves , is Protestant . Their Coyns there Current are of divers Nations , as English , Spanish , French and Dutch , upon which they set a passable Value not Coyning any themselves . Their Accompts are most commonly in Muscavado Sugar , according to which all other Commodities are Regulated , their Interest by reason no Law restrains it , is unreasonable , as sometimes thirty Per Cent. Their Measures for the most part Concord with those of England , only they allow but five score to the Hundred , not 112. The growth of the Island is Tobacco , Sugar , Indico , Cotton-Wool , Log-Wood , Lignum Vitae , &c. The chief Season of exporting Sugars , and other Commodities of the Native growth , is from January to September , or October . Wines are imported in abundance , and are sold in publick as in England : So that there is not less then 2400. Tuns of all sorts spent Yearly , besides Spirits , and other Liquors . From this Island they transport to Virginia and Barmudos , a Liquor made of the Sugar Canes , &c. called Rum , and for it receive Pork , Fish , Flower , Bisket , Pipe Staves , and the like : The Apparel of the Planters , is the same with what is worn in England ; as for Customs they have none , save only for Wines and other Liquors , which are Rated at a certain quantity of Muscavado Sugar , and further are obliged to pay half a pound of Powder , for every Tun upon Entery . Factorage or Factory-Provision is 10. per cent . 5. per cent . for Sail , and 5. for return , as also 3. per cent . for Store-House Room ; if any one will export Corn , or any manner of Provision being the growth of the Island , they must ask the Governours Consent ; 200. English Vessels and upward Trade hither Yearly ; and the usual fraight to London is 4. and 5. per Tun , when Ships are Plenty , 3. pound , when scarce , 6. or 7. pound per Tun : There is no publick Assurance-Office , nor Exchange , unless sometimes in Sugar , for which Mony is received in London . And thus much for Barbados . The main Land about 100. Leagues from this Island , is called Guinia , lying Southwardly , and containeth a Colony of English planted within the River of Serenam . Cracus lyeth 4. Leagues from the Sea-side , and is very fruitful , having a Port , whose entrance is Guarded with two Forts each containing 14. pieces of Cannon , and in it are several Plantations of Coquo , some belonging to the Spaniards , and some to the Indians , the latter being obliged to work for the former 3. days in the Week . And thus much for America , in particular , and indeed in general : for this new World , as it is Termed , yields little more then here I have set down ; and indeed in Riches may Compare with any of the other three Parts , did the Inhabitants know how to improve the growth of the Islands and Continent accordingly ; but indeed the Spaniards possessing the greatest part , use their utmost diligence to keep out other Nations , and will instruct the Natives in nothing that is Curious , lest they should leave off to Labour in the Mines ; but thus much concerning America . The Customs , Situation , and Manners thereof , in the exactest Method . CHAP. XVII . A view of Africa , and of the Manners , Customs , Trade , Weights , Measures , Coyns , and Commodity thereof . AFrica , one of the quarters of the World , is bounded on the North with the Mediterranean Sea , on the West with the Atlantick Ocean , on the South with the South Ocean , and on the East with the Red-Sea ; and is in a manner an Island , being tyed only to Asia , with a Neck of Land of 20 Leagues over , and contains these Provinces , viz. Barbery , Numidia , Lybia , Negrita , Ethiopia Interior , and Ethiopia Exterior , Egypt ; and the Islands of the Sea. The Account of the Trade , and Commerce of the Principal Cities , and Towns , but especially from whence any Commodities are brought and Traded for by the English Merchants I shall lay down as foloweth . CHAP. XVIII . A view of Tunis , the Trade , Manners , and Customs thereof . BArbary being divided into four Kingdoms , viz. Tunis , Argier , Fess , and Morocco , I shall take them in order , and first of Tunis . Tunis is Situate near unto the great Lake , which Extends almost to the Port of Goletta ; and is founded on the ruins of Carthage , being in compass within the Walls 4 Miles , and accounting the Suburbs 7 Miles in circuit ; and is very Populous , owning for Supream Lord , the Grand-Signeour , who governs it by a Bassaw ; the Inhabitants being Mahumetans ; the Houses are Builded of Square Stone , and for the most part flat . A Port it has large and Commodious for Shipping . Their Money in Gold is mostly the Spanish Doller or Royal , the Venice Chiqeen , the Spanish Pistolet , which they pass from one to another at full value , unless diminished , or light Weight in Silver , they have the Spanish Royal , and the Asper . Their Accounts are for the most part kept in Dollers , and Aspers . Their Weights are the Cantar of 100. pounds , yet in Weight are found to exceed our 112 , two pounds , each of their pounds being divided into 16 Ounces , and so into less , by division , viz. Each Ounce into 8 Tamins ; and by this Weight , are all their Merchandise Weighed , except Silver , Gold , Pearl , &c. which are Weighed by a Cariot Weight , which is half an Ounce Troy , or Mittagals much of the same Proportion . In Weight of Cloves , and Nutmegs , they allow 5 pounds per cent . Tret or over-plus , besides the Weight of the Bags . Their Measures for Silk , Cloath , and the like , are the Pike ; there being 3 sorts of them , the first called the Cloath Pike , is 26 Inches and a half English ; the second , the Gray , which is a 16th . part less , by which they Measure Silks , Sattins , Velvets , &c. The third is the Linnen Pike , and is ¼ part less then the Silk Pike . Their dry Measures are the Coffice , containing about 10 of our Bushels . The Weab 18 of which make a Coffice , and the Saw of which 12 make a Weab . Their Liquid Measures , are the Wine Meeter , and Oyl Meeter , the former being near 2 English Gallons and a half , and the latter near 5. The chief Commodities are Hides , Wax , Oyl , Honey , Wool , Corn , Raisons , Dates , Anniseeds , Estrich Feathers , Sponges , Lemons , Oranges , Almonds , and Olives . For which they receive of such Merchants as Trade thither , English , and Venice , Cloath , Lead , Deal-Boards , Shot , Perpetuanos , Spanish Wool , Tartar , Allum , Iron , Madder , Safaparilla , Pepper , Ginger , Safforn , Cinamon , Nutmegs , Cocheneel , Gold Thread , Sea-Horse-teeth , Cotton , Yarn , Venice-Pepper , French-Canvas , Gulmak , Damask , Sattain , and the like . Their Customs upon Goods imported , unless Lead , Shot , and Iron , are 9 per cent . on the Real Value ; and before any Goods can be delivered , an exact Account must be taken thereof by Officers appointed for that purpose ; other charges of Goods imported , besides fraight ( of which no certainty ) is 8 per cent . more , viz. 2 per cent . consolage . 5 per cent . provision and Broakage , and one per cent . for petty Charges ; the Customs on Goods , that are exported ( Honey , Wax , and Wool , liable to no Customs , excepted ) is 5 per cent . The Counterban , or Goods prohibited to be exported , are Pease , Corn , Oyl , Beans , Butter , Hony , Dates , &c. tho often a Licence for Exporting the same , is secretly procured . And thus much for Tunis , in the Description of which I have described the Trade of all the Cities of that Kingdom , as centering in this . CHAP. XIX . A view of Argier , and of the Trade , Manners , Customs , Weights , Measures thereof , and their way of dividing Prizes , and selling Slaves in the Publick Market . ARgier , that Piratical Kingdom so dangerous to Merchants Trading in the Mediterranean , contains as her Principal Cities Argier and Tremesin , the former giving name to the Kingdom which is but small in compass . The City of Argier , the common Receptacle of Turkish and Moorish Pirates , is imagined to contain 90000 Souls , in which there are several that protest against the Thieving Trade , and hold some Commerce with Merchants of divers Nations . Their chief Commodities are Oyls , Almonds , Rasins , Figs , Dates , Castile-Sope , Brass , Copper , Barbary Horses , Estrich Feathers , Hony , Wax , and Drugs . Their Coyn is the Double , accounted of equal Value with our 12 pence or 2 single Spanish Ryals ; 4 Doubles are accounted a Ryal and 8 / 8 called by them the Olian , 5 Doubles and 35 Aspers is a Pistol Spanish , 7 Doubles are accounted a Sultany , or Cheeque of Barbary Gold , and 50 Aspers make a Double . And these are the currant Monies of the Kingdom of Argier . The Weights are the Rotolos , or 100 pound , which makes 120 pound English , the 10 pound of the small making 6 in gross ; some Commodities they likewise weigh by the Cantar ; as Iron , Lead , Yarn , Wool , which Cantar is 150 Rotolos ; Figs , Dates , Sope , Butter , &c. are weighed by a Cantar of 166 Rotolos : Almonds , Cheese , Cottons , &c. they weigh by a Cantar of 110 Rotolos , Brass , Copper , Wax , and Drugs , by a Cantar of 100 Rotolos , Flax , by a Cantar of 200 Rotolos . Gold , Silver , Pearl , and precious Stones , are weighed by the Mittigal , which is 72 Grains English , and is worth 9 Doubles . The Sultanie Cheeque , or Hunger Weighs 52 Grains English , being equally Valued with Angel Gold , and by the Ounce Troy , in England is worth 3 pound 11 Shillings . Their Measures of Length are two Picos , viz. the Turkish , and the Morisco Picos . The former is divided into 16 parts and every ⅛ part , is called a Robe , and is 131 / 1●2 part of the English Yard , and the Custom is an Inch allowance to every Yard , and by these they Measure Silks , Woollen Cloath , and Stuffs . The dry Measure is a Tarry , which being well heaped , makes 5 Gallons English , and by this they Measure Salt , Corn , and other Commodities . They make their Accounts in Doubles , Aspers , Osians , and Sultanies . Their Customs are 10 per cent . and so in all other cases , as at Tunis , when any Ship enters and cast Anchors , her Sails or Rudder is demanded to prevent the passing off without paying such Customs , and then not to Sail without leave from the Duan , which is the Bashaw , and his Assembly who Regulate all affairs , which were usually these . To the Kiffa 28 Doubles , to his Chiouse 4 Doubles , to his Almia 8 Doubles , to the Bashaw Sorman , 2 Doubles , to the Draggerman 8 Doubles , to the Sackagy 8 Doubles , and for the Consuls Duty 24 Doubles . The Piratical Trade is thus , 2 or more set out a Vessel of Prizage , or Free booty to Prey upon Merchants Ships , the which when they have taken and brought into the Port , the Owners divide the Spoil by Lot , making the Partitions or Dividends as even as possible ; as for the Captives they do the like , and if there happen to be an odd man , they either cast Lots for him , or sell him in the Market ; and divide the Money , the manner of selling of them is to carry them into the Market , and place them in Stalls like Beasts , where the buyer Views and handles them ; but especially their Hands , by which he is satisfyed , whether they have been Inured to Labour or not , as likewise in their Mouths , to see if they have good Teeth to bite Biskets as hard as deal Boards ; and according to their Youth , Healthy Complexion and Ability of Body , they go off to the Buyer , he being ever after acknowledged for their Patron . And thus much for this Piratical Government , too well known to Merchants , and Saylors who Trade in the Mediterranean . CHAP. XX. A view of the Kingdom of Fess , and of the Trade , Customs , Weights , Measures and currant Coyns thereof . THis Kingdom takes it's name from the Metropolitan City , viz. the City Fess , being the Goodliest City in Barbary ; adorned with 700. Moschs or Temples , of which 50 are Beautifyed , with Pillars , Jasper , and Alabaster , the chief of which called Carucen , and Seated in the Heart of the City contains a Mile in compass , consisting of 190 Arches , and is born up by 2500 Marble Pillars , hung all about with Silver Lamps , and hath 31 Gates , and all things else porportionable , and the City computed to contain 8600 Families . The Commodities in General are Dates , Almonds , Figs , Rasins , Hony , Olives , Wax , Gold , Hides , Furs , and a sort of Cordivant Skins , Cotton , and Wool very fine , which is dispersed into Spain , Italy , France , and England ; and of late the Inhabitants have found out the Art of making Cloath . The Principal Money of this Kingdom , is the Xerif , or Gold Ducate , and accounted worth 10 Shillings Sterling ; and is divided into 8 equal parts . The Weights are two , one used for weighing Gross Commodities , called the Rotolos , 64 of which are computed to Ballance our 100 Averdupois , and 100 Rottolos go to the Cantar . The other is the Mittigal used in weighing Gold , Pearl , Silver , Musk , and the like ; and agrees with those of Tunis , and Argier . The long Measure is the Cavado , of which 12 are Accounted to a Cane , and 181 or 182 Cavados to make 100 Yards English . The Customs are 10 per cent . to all Strangers , but to the Natives 2 per cent . and for what soever they hand , they must pay , whether sold or not , which makes Merchants sell their Wares on Shipboard , for the most part where Customs are Payed only for what is sold . And thus much for Fess , and the Trade thereof . CHAP. XXI . A view of the Kingdom of Morocco , the Trade , Currant Coyns , Weights , Measures , and Customs thereof . THis Kingdom as the former takes it's Name from the chief City and Center of it's Trade , and is very Beautiful ; tho Inferious to Fess ; in it is found a Burse , and Exchange , formerly much frequented by Merchants , but now for the most part taken up by Artizans . The Commodities vended there are the same with those of Fess , except Sugar , in which it more abounds . The Coyns are the Xerif , and Ducate of Gold , valued as those of Fess . The Weights are 2 several Quintals , the one agreeing with the Canter of Fese , and the other with the Quintal of Sevil , and indeed in all things according with Fess , as being now reduced under one Government . Their Religion , if so it may be Termed , is Mahumetisme , and of late they have not any considerable Trade with the English Merchants ; tho 't is not doubted , but the effects of the League , between his Majesty of great Britain , and that Emperour may be a means to revive it , as likewise to inrich our Garrison of Tangier , by rendering it a Publick Mart , it being the Key of Barbary . CHAP. XXII . A view of Numidia , and Lybia , and their Provinces ; with the Trade , Currant Coyns , Manners and Customs . NVmidia is bounded on the West with the Atlantick Ocean , on the East with Egypt , on the North with the Mountain Atlas , and on the South with Lybia . The Country on the North part abounds with plenty , but the South by Reason of the Excessive heat , is most desert , the Inhabitants build but few Houses , but in great Companies pass from one place to another , living sometimes in Woods , sometimes in Caves , according as Heat and Cold affects them . The chief Trade is among themselves , for Dates , Hides , Furs , and Fruits of all sorts ; Cattle they have , but have not the Art of improving them , their Coyns are few , but those they have are of Brass and Silver ; their Weights and Measures for the most part Equallizing those of Fess , and Morocco ; tho they are little in use , few Merchants Trading with them . Lybia is bounded on the East with Nilus , on the West with the Atlantick Ocean , on the South with Negrita , and on the North with Numidia ; and is Barren for the most part by Reason the heat is Excessive ; their Trade , Coyn , Weights , and Measures , are not worth mentioning ; by Reason their Commerce is little , no Merchants caring to deal with the Natives , they being in a manner Savages . CHAP. IX . A View of Negrita , or the Land of Negroes , with the Trade , Currant Coyn , Weights , Measures , and Customs . THis Province is Inhabited with Negroes , or Blackamoors . Bounded on the West with the Atlantick Ocean , on the East with Ethiopia Superior , on the South with Manicongo , and on the North with Lybia , containing a large Tract of Land , and is fertilized by the overflowing of the River Niger , or Sanaga ; and is under the Regency of 3 Kings , who have of late made 3 Kingdoms of 5 , as Tombutue , Berneo , and Gouga . Each having many famous Havens , Commodious for Shipping . The City Tombutue , from whence that Kingdom has it's Name , is Situate beyond the River Niger ; and is Traded to by the English , French , and Dutch ; and within four Miles of it is the City Gouga , which is likewise a place of great Trade , but as for Berneo , the Inhabitants thereof are for the most part Breeders of Cattle , and Hunters of Wild-Beasts . The Commodities of these Countries , are Corn , Sugar , Cattle , Rice , Fruits , Gold Sands , and Ingots ; which they expose to Sail for Cloath , Callicoes , Copper , Basons , Iron-work , Guns , Shot , Glass , Beads , and the like ; but Principally Salt , of which Commodity that Country is deficient ; but the chief Maritim parts are Guinny , and Benin , first discovered by the Portugals , and for the abundance of Gold the Country affoards called the Golden Coast ; the Rumour of which spreading wide in Europe , the English soon found it out , and after them the Dutch : and now the French have some Trade there . The manner of Trading thus : The Ships coming into the Road cast Anchor , and the Merchants or Factors going on Shoar , declare what Wares they have on Board , to the Persons called Tolkens , or Brokers , which live in little Huts along the Coast , and when the Moors come down with their Gold , they are informed by them that such and such Commodities are to be had , upon which taking Boat together they come on Board , and laying by such things as they like , propose what Gold they will give for them , which if accepted the Bargain is made ; and they return with their Goods on Shoar . The Customs are various . Particular Officers , being set in every Port , to take an Account of what is bought and sold ; and every one that comes to buy , tho he buy nothing , must pay a small Stipend for his Person ; upon his returning from on Shipboard , and to prevent defraud , there is still a Son , Brother , or Kinsman of the Kings , to whom the Port belongeth , to see the Toll be duly taken ; and he that buyes Commodities under the value of 2 Ounces of Gold , makes his price for Customs as he can , but he that buy 's above which they call a Benda , pays to the Value of an Angel in Gold for every Benda . As for Coyns they have none , the Trade among themselves being for Gold-Sands , or Ingot by Weight , the fineness of which they try with Artificial Needles , in number 24 ; in some Places they melt their Gold , and draw it into Wire , and so cut into small pieces , the better to divide it as occasion requires , and in other places they have pieces of Iron , which goes Currant instead of Mony. Their Weights consist of Copper , the greatest of which is a Benda , containing 2 Ounces Troy , a Benda offa , or half a Benda . The Asseva which is two Pesoes and a half , the Egebba , or 2 Pesos which is half an Ounce , and so lesser tell they come to Drams , and Scruples of Troy Weight , but their pound is found the ¾ part of an Ounce heavier than ours . Their Measures for Cloath is a Jactam , accounted 12 Foot English , which they divide into two parts ; as for their Woollen Cloath , they cut it into long Slips , and make Girdles of it . Formerly the Trade in those parts was very advantagious , but of late ( one Nations striving to outvye each other ) have given them an insight into the true value of Gold , and of such Commodities as they receive for it . The Sugar Trade which is considerable , is ingrossed by the Portugals at a certain Annual rate , and no other Nation suffered to deal therein , the Sugar made there being Transported to Lisbon , is from thence dispercsd throughout Europe . And thus much for Negrita , and the Guinny Trade . CHAP. XXIV . A View of Aethiopia Superior , and Inferior . But of the last especially , and of the Trade thereof , &c. THe Superior Ethiopia , otherwise called Abasine , is a Plentiful Country Governed by Prester John , and the Inhabitants for the most part Christians ; it abounds in Cattle , Fruits , and Minnerals , but being an Inland Province , yields little . Trade to Merchants . The Inferior Ethiopia is bounded on the West with the Ethiopian Ocean ; on the East with the Red-Sea , and contains Provinces or divisions , Ajan , Zanbiar , Monomotapa , Caffaria , and Monicongo . Ajan is chiefly Traded to by the Portugals , and yields store of Cattle , Wax , Hony , Corn , Gold , Ivory , &c. Zanibra contains 15 Towns , from which 15 Petty Kingdoms take their Names , and was first discovered by the Portugals ; abounding in Ivory , and Gold , the chief Town being Mosambique , where they have a Castle , and ingross the Trade for the most part . Monomotapa is almost invironed round with Water . And is stored with Gold Mines ; and Elephants of which 5 or 6000 are yearly killed for their Teeth . Manicongo was discovered by the Portugals Anno 1486. And for a long time yielded them 30000 Slaves yearly , which they carryed to Brasile to dig in their Silver Mines . The Principal Port , and Center of all their Trade , being at Mosambique . I shall not instance the Trade thereof , because that in View of that , all the Trade of the Provinces is Comprehended . CHAP. XXV . A View of Mosambique , and of the Trade thereof . MOsambique is for the most part inhabited by Portugals , and has in it a strong Castle , wherein lives the Portugal Captain , who has a grant of free Trade for himself , either in the Country , or in the Indies , which is not above 16 days Sail from thence ; but when there , they must stay near 5 Months ' er they can return , or lose their Season ; by Reason of the Mouson , as they call it , or Trading-Wind Blows all one way for so long . As for his Place it is very advantagious , yet of but 3 Years Continuance , at the Expiration of which he is obliged to go into India , and serve under the Vice-Roy . The Commodities are chiefly Ingot , and dust Gold , or Sand Gold ; which is found in abundance , there being sever●● Rich Mines adjacent , as well in the Islands , as on the Continent , where the King of Portugal keeps Factors to manage the trade , who barters , and sends Merchandise from one place to another , and so increase in the growth of each Province ; nor is it less commodious for the reception of the Portugal Fleet , either in their way to or from the Indies . There is found likewise Elephants Teeth , Ebony , Ambergrease , &c. and from thence they carry Slaves to India . Their Coyns of which there are but few , are the same with those of Portugal ; as also are their Weights and Measures , a description of which I shall give , when I come to take a View of the Trade of the Kingdom of Portugal . CHAP. XXVI . A View of Aegypt , and the Provinces thereof , as also of the Trade , Commodities , Coyns , Weights , Measures and Customs . ON the East Egypt is bounded by the Red Sea , on the South with Aasia on the West with Cyrene , and on the North with the Mediterranean Sea , and Watered with the Fruitful River Nilus ; which dividing it self into 7 Channels , and about the middle of June . Annually overfloweth it's Banks , and continues so to do for 4 days , laying all under Water ; by Reason of which the Towns are seated upon Hills ; and during the Inundation , their Commerce is by Skiffs and Boats. This River is in Length 3000 Miles , and when it over-flows not , it portenteth some fatal disaster to the King or Kingdom ; and by this means the Land is Fertilized , for as for Rain there is none . The chief Places of Traffick are Alexandria , a famous Sea-Port , founded by Alexander the great , and Cairo commonly called Grand - Cairo , and in these Center the Trade of the whole Country . Therefore omitting Places of lesser note , I shall only take a View of these two Cities , and their Commerce , with such as Trade in those parts , and first of Alexandria . Alexandria first founded by Alexander the Great , in Expedition to Conquer the World , is the chief Maritim City of Egypt , and from all parts of the Kingdom are thither brought Flax , Hemp , Hony , Wax , Rice , Balsoms , Dates , Drugs , and Spices ; and the Country in general produceth abundance of Palm Trees , besides hither are brought the Plenty of Arabia , India , and Persia ; as Spices , Drugs , Silks , &c. so that the Custom-House is accountable yearly for great Summs of Gold. The nature of the Palm Trees that grow in that Country is this , they always grow in Cupples twisted , or twined , viz. Male and Female , the Female Palm only bears Fruit , and that not without the Male , for if the Male Palm be cut away , the Female will not bear ; the Fruit is Cods with Seed , and pleasant Juice , the Pith of these Trees is excellent in tast , and very nourishing ; of the Leaves , they make Fans , Mats , and Baskets ; of the outward Husks of the Cod Cordage , and of the inward Brushes ; the Fruit they bear is like a Fig which serves the Inhabitants for Meat green , and dryed for Bread. The Weights used here are four sorts , first the Quintar of Zera , second the Quintar of Forfor , third the Quintar of Zaidin , the fourth the Quintar of Mina ; the first is found to be English 112 pounds , the second 93 pounds English , the third 134 pounds English , the fourth the 167 pounds English , Averdupois Weight . The Measures are two-fold , viz. the Pico Barbaresco , which is used for the Measuring of Cloath , both Linnen , and Woollen , and is in Length 25 ⅞ English Inches ; and the Pico Turchesco , with which is Measured Silks , fine Stuffs , Cloath of Gold , &c. and is found to be 22 ¼ English Inches ; as for wet and dry Measures , they are of little use , the Customs being to sell by Weight for the most part . CHAP. XXVII . A View of Cairo , and the Trade , Weights , Measures , and Customs thereof . CAiro is a famous City , Situate in the vast Plain beneath the Mountains of Mucatun , and not above 2 Miles from the Bank of Nilus , adorned with many stately Buildings , as Pallaces , Colledges , Temples , and the like ; and has in it a large Burse , or Exchange of 3 Story high , the first of which consists of Ware-Houses , for Gross Goods ; in the second , is laid up Musk , Amber , Silks , Spices , and the like ; and in the third the Merchants who have Ware-Houses , there lodg with their Retinues ; which Merchants are of 6 sorts , first the Native Egyptians ; secondly the Arabians , or Moors ; thirdly the Merchants of Europe Christians ; fourthly the Turks ; fifthly the Jews , and sixthly the Christians of Affrica , as , Greeks , Armenians , &c. The Lord of this City , and Country is the grand Signeour who governs by his Bashaw or Vice-King . The Commodities Traded for by the Europian Merchants , are Flax , Rice , Balsoms , Puls , Fruits , Cottons , Sugars , Hemp , and the like ; which according to the overflowing of Nilus the Soil yields in plenty , or Scarcity , so that when they have a plentiful Year ; they make a Feast to Nilus , or the River God ; as they Term him , and exceedingly Rejoyce thereto . The yearly Revenue of this Kingdom , accrueing by Customs , and other ways amount to 3 Millions of Sheraffes , each valued at 8 Shillings Sterling , one Million of which is sent to the grand Signeur , one for maintaining the forces of the Kingdom , and the other to enable the Bashaw to keep his Court. The Customs are either payed in Species or compounded for at 10 per cent . only Money entred pays but one and a half per cent . but outward all Commodities pay 11 per cent . which is accounted the Soldan's Custom . The Customs of Alexandria are farmed by the Jews at 20000 Medins per diem , which according to computation , amounts to 55000 pounds per Annum Sterling . Their Weights and Measures , are the same with those of Alexandria . The Currant Coyns in Egypt , are Spanish Royals of 8 which they call Piastre , and Dollers the Meden the Asper the Soltana , Xeriffe , and Cheqeen , the value of each as before recited . Their Accounts are variously kept , some in one sort of Coyn , and some in another . The chief Trade driven here by the European Christians , is by the French , and Venetians ; the English having of late declined it , as having the growth of the Country or the same Commodities , at cheaper Rates in India , and Aleppo . And thus much for the Continent of Egypt . CHAP. XXVIII . A View of the Isles of the Sea , appertaining to Africa , with their Commodities , Trade , Weight , Measures , &c. THe Isles are these , viz. Madagascar , Zocotara , St. Thomas , the Canary Islands , the Islands of Assores , or Tarceras . The first abounds in Ginger , Cloves , and Silver Mines , and was discovered by the Portugals Anno 1506. The money in use amongst the Natives are Glass Beads of Cambaia , which passes currant amongst them ; their Weights and Measures are few , and those uncertain . The second lyeth in the Mouth of the Red Sea , 10 Degrees Northward from the Equator , and yieldeth Cattle and Corn , but the chief thing Traded for is Aloes , which are sold by the Quintar , which Averdupois English is 93 pound . The third lies under the Equinoctial , in which is a Colony of Portugals ; the chief Commodity it yieldeth is Sugar , of which so much is made , as ladeth yearly 50 Vessels of good Burthen ; their Weights and Measures being the same with those used at Lisbone , as indeed wherever the Portugals Plant themselves they impose their own Weights and Measures on the Inhabitants . Fourthly the Canary Islands , which are 7 in number under the Protection of the King of Spain , are very Fruitful , abounding in Sugar-Canes , and those Birds we call Ca●●ry Birds ; and in Canary Wine , which takes it's name from the Islands , of which 4 or 500 Tuns are yearly exported , and dispersed over Europe . There is likewise Wood of Excellent use for Dyers . Hither the English trade , and for the growth of the Island Exchange Says , Serge , Bays , Linnen , &c. Their Weights , Measures , and Coyns , are the same with those of Sevil ; of which in order I shall speak . Fifthly the Islands of Assores , or Tarceras , directly under the Meridian , were first discovered by the Flemings , and abound in Cattle , Corn , Wood , and the like ; but are of little use , some for Harbouring , and re-victualling of Ships in their Voyage to the East-Indies , as are many other small Islands , lying in that vast Ocean . And thus much shall suffice for Africa and the Trade thereof . CHAP. XXIX . A View of Asia , and of the Trade , Manners , and Customs thereof together with the Description of their Currant Coyns , Weights , Measures , &c. ASia Earths third Portion , is divided from Africa by the Red Sea , and Egyptian Isthmus , and from Europe by the Egean Propontis , and Euxian Sea , by Palus Meotis , Tunais , Duina , &c. and is divided into these Regions or Provinces , viz. Anatolia , Syria , Palestina , Armenia , Arabia , Media , Assyria , Mesopotamia , Chaldea , Persia , Parthia , Tartaria , China , India . And the Islands of the Sea. Anatolia , or Natolias , is bounded on the East with Euphrates , on the West with Thracius Bosphorus , Propontis , the Hellespont , and Egean , on the North Propontis , Euxinus , and on the South bounded with the Rhodian , and Lycian Seas . In this Province Smyrna , is the chief City of Trade , therefore passing over those of less note , I shall Center the Trade of the whole Province , in that one City . Smyrna , the City to which the Church of which St. John directed his Revelation , is Seated at the Bottom of a Gulgh , called the Gulph of Smyrna ; where resides an English Consul , and the like for the French , and Venetians . The Principal Trade having been lately removed from Scio thither , by Reason of the advantagious Harbour for Shipping . This City is under the Government of the Grand Signeur , and is Inhabited by all Nations , but especially Traded to by the English , French , and Venetians . The Commodities found there , which are brought by the Arabians , Persians , and other Merchants of Asia , and sold to the Christian Traders in that Port , are Cotton Wools , Galls , Anniseeds , Wax , Cordovant , Cottons wrought Grogram , Yarn , Cute , Carpets , Grograms , Chamblets , Mohairs , Fruits , Drugs , and store of Persian Silk ; which is brought on Camels , and Dromidaries by Land ; for which they receive of our Merchants in Exchange Suffolk , Essex , and Glocester Cloaths , Yorkshire , and Hampshire Kersies , Lead , Tinn , Pepper , Calicoes , Indico , Cloves , Cinnamon , and the like ; which Spices were formerly the growth of those Countries ; but in the intestine Wars , the Trees for the most part destroyed , and now supplyed by our Merchants being brought from India . The Venetians Trade with them for Pepper , Cloath , wrought Silk , Velvets , and the French bring thither , Cloath , Paper , and Bullion , the latter of which they convert to Coyn , Stamped with the Effigies and Motto of the Grand Signeour for the most part , and the same with what is currant all over his Empire ; which when I come to take a View of Constantinople , and the Trade thereof , I shall describe . The Weights in use , is the Quintar , which contains 100 Rotolos , or 24 Oaks , which are found to be 400 Drams . They have likewise the Lodoro , being 176 Drams , and the Pound Averdupois , has appeared to be 148 Drams , and the Quintar of 42 Oaks to be 119 pound English , tho sometimes but 117. Their Measures are two , viz. one for Linnen , and the other for Woollen , to which as before in the Weights , I shall refer the Reader to those of Constantinople , they being in effect the same . The Custom-House of Smyrna , is for the most part farmed of the Grand Signeour , and three per cent . only taken of the English Merchants , unless upon Extraordinary occasions ; and altho there has been an Edict , Published by the Grand Signeour , that no Goods paying in one Port of his Dominious , and brought into an other Port , shall pay any more duty , yet it is not observed , but the Merchants are obliged to compound with the Customers upon that occasion . But this Custom of 3 per cent . is only to the English , by virtue of their Treaty , for the French , Dutch , and Venetians pay 5 per cent . The charges of the Port for Ships , before they can be cleared , are sometimes pay'd in Commodities , and sometimes in Money , as they can agree ; and the most part are thus . To the Cadie 5 Pico of Venetian Cloath , and Cony Skins to leave it . To the Cadies Servant , 3 ½ Picos English Cloath , to the Cadies Caya , 3 Picos of what Cloath he shall chuse , to the Cadies Scrivan , a Chicquen in Gold. To the Cadies Page , 2 ½ Dollars , to the Mosier Bashaw , 1 ½ Picos of Cloath , to the Cadies Janizaries , a Chicquen in Gold ; all of which is commonly accounted to be worth 68 or 69 Dollars . But to conclude , the Trade of this Port , is most in request for the abundance of Cotton ; which grows in the adjacent parts , after this manner about the Spring of the Year , it is sowed and comes up with a Slender Stalk like Wheat ; but strong as a Cane , and bears a Bearded Head , exceeding hard , but when Ripe it opens of it self , and yields both Seed , and Cotton , the first of which they Preserve to Sow again , and the latter they sell to the English and French to the quantity yearly of 20000 Quintals . CHAP. XXX . A View of Syria , and the Trade thereof . SYria is bounded with the Mediterranean Sea on the West , on the East with Euphrates , on the South with Palestine , and on the North with Cilicia , and contains 3 Provinces , viz. Phaenicia , Caelosyria , and Syrophaenicia . In Phaenicia , are Principally found the Cities of Acria , and Sidon , where the chief Trade and Commerce is with the Venetians , and French , who Traffick with the Inhabitants for Corn , Galls , Wool , and Wax , and in the lieu thereof give them Spices , and Europian Cloath . Their Weights are the Cantar of Acria which makes 603 pound English , and the Rottolo which is 4 pound 5 ½ Ounces English , and 650 Drams . Their Measures are the Brace , with which they Measure their Cloath , and other Commodities . Their Coyns , especially theirs of Sidon , and the Ryals of 8 / ● Spanish , and Chickqeens of Gold , the Ryal going currant for 70 Aspers , and the Chickqeens at 108 , but seldom continue long at a setled value ; and thus much for the Province of Phaenicia . Syrophaenicia , contains the City of Baruti , formerly called Julia Felix , once a City of great Trade , but of late reduced to straiter Limits and little Trade ; all they have with Europe , is from the Venetians . Their Commodities are Wax , Drugs , some Silks , and such like Commodities common to Asia . Their Weights is the Cantar , containing 100 Rotolo's , each Rotolo being accounted 502 pound English . Their Measure is the Pico , 100 containing 86 Venetian Braces . Their Trade for the most parts is with the Merchants of Arabia , Persia , and Turky , who bring thither their Merchandise , at certain Seasons , when the Carravan sets out , not otherwise daring to venture for fear of the Rovers that Rob in great Troops . The chief Metropolis of Caelosyria , is Damascus ; which is the Principal Scale of Trade in that Province . Therefore so that in describing the Trade of that , the rest will be included . CHAP. XXXI . A View of Damascus , of the Trade , Weights , Measures , and Currant Coyn thereof . DAmascus is Accounted the Head of Syria , and is pleasantly Seated ; abounding in all manner of plenty , as Grapes , Corn , Cattle , Cottons , Saffron , Steel , Raw Silk , Oyl , Honey , Wax , Balsom , Almonds , Dates , and Rice , which are all the growth of the Country , and brought thither by the Merchants ; as the chief Mart for which they receive ( but mostly of the Venetians ) Woollen Cloath , Tinn , Quick-Silvet , Lead , Latten Wire , Plates , Brimstone , Allum , Beads , Bracelets , Looking-Glasses , Canvas , Furs , Sugar , Paper , Velvet , Taffata , Damask , Coral , Beads , and the like ; for which besides the above-mentioned Wares , at sundry Seasons , they receive Ginger , Cloves , Mace , Sandals , Incense , Myrrh , Nutmegs , Indico , Gallingal , Long-Pepper , Mirobulans , Armoniack , Alloes Epatica , Cardimon , Turbith , Sanguis Draconis , Sugar Candia , Worm-seed , Zedoaria , Spicknard , Cinnamon , Tutia , Benjamin , Assa Faetida , Manna , and Champhir , which are sold by the Cantar of Damasco , or the Rottolo ; some Musk , Ambergrease , and Pearls , are found there likewise . Their Weights are the Cantar , and Rottolo , the former making 600 Venetian pound Sotile , and 380 pound Gross , which is accounted 416 pound Averdupois . The Measure of length is the Pico , and is accounted 27 Inches , with which they Measure their Cloath , Stuffs , and Silks , and to each Measure allow the vantage of a Hands breadth ; and in all Weights Tare of the Casks , Bags , or packing Mats . Their Coyn is the Asper , they have likewise Currant , the Chickqeens of Gold , and some few Ryals . And thus much for Damascus , so famous of old , as is mentioned in Holy Writ . CHAP. XXXI . A View of Aleppo , and the Trade thereof , with the Descriptions of the Weights ; Measures , Manners , and Customs of that famous City . ALeppo formerly called Aram Sobab , is Seated on a fair and fertile Plain , and Beautifyed with many stately Buildings ; each Street being nightly shut up with Folding Gates , and the Merchants Caves or Ware-Houses , fortifyed with Iron Gates , the Trade of Tripoly being by the General consent of the Merchants removed hither , Merchants of all Nations making it now their Scale of Trade , tho an Inland City being Seated about 100 English Miles from the Sea ; so that from the port of Alexandretta , or Scanetaroon , the Merchandise coming by Shipping , are Laden on Camels , and conveyed thither ; that Country being in Subjection likewise to the Grand Signeur . The Commodity brought by the Merchants of Persia , Arabia , and India , are Drugs , Gems , Spices , Silks , &c. and the growth of the Country affordes Grogorams , Galls , Grogram Yarn , Cotton , &c. there is likewise found Silk of Tripoly , Bacai , Bedovin , and Damasco . And this is the chief Scale of Trade , for our English Levant Merchants ; all other of his Majesties Subjects , being prohibited to Trade thither : and by what is vended there yearly , the Reader may Judge of the profits accruing thereby , viz. 6000 Cloath and upwards , of several sorts 600 Quintals of Tinn , and not less then 100000 , Ryals of 8 / 8 in ready Money , besides Linnen , Stuffs , Furs , and other things of English growth , for all which they have large returns . The next who Trade to Aleppo of note are the Venetians , who bring thither Wire , Latten , Plates , shaven Latten , wrought Silk , Steel , Ryals of 8 Chickqueens of Gold , Crystal , Looking-Glasses , Damask , Quicksilver , Paper , and the like ; for which they receive all sorts of Cotten , both in Wool , and Yarn ; as likewise Grograms , Mohaires , Drugs , Spices , Gems , Calls , Indicos , and the like ; and upon the same Score , the French Trade thither , all of them having Consuls , or Vice-Counsuls Resident in Aleppo , Alexandretto , or some place adjacent to manage their affairs . The Weights of this place , are the Rottolo , Dram , and Wesno ; by the latter of which little other Commodities then Persian Silk is sold . The Rottolo is 12 Ounces , the Dram , the 60 part of an Ounce ; and 3600 is accounted to the Wesno , yet for Silver , Gold , and Gems , they have other Weights ; as the Mitigal and Carat , the former of which is 1 ½ Drams , which is Carats 24 English , or Grains 96 , &c. All sorts of Indico is there sold by the Churl , which is accounted 27 ½ Rottolos , of 720 Drams , Churls , 2 make a Chest , 327 pounds neat Indico being allowed to a Churl ; 3 Ounces for dust , 3 Ounces for Single shirt , and 6 Ounces for double shirt , being over and above allowed to the Buyer . Silk of all sorts hath allowance , from Heads of Skeins , if coarse 100 in 130 Drams per Wesno , if fine yet 60 Drams ; Musk sold by the Mittigal , out of the Cods , gives no allowance , but in the Cod ●0 per cent . Drugs of the proper growth of the Country , are sold by the Rottolo of 720 Drams ; and is exempted from Custom , but as for Drugs of Forrein growth they are weighed by the Rottolo of 600 Drams , as Camphir , Alloes Socotrine , &c. and pay large Customs , even as the Buyer can agree ; Silks of the growth give no allowance in Tare , as being fine and clean , Opium is allowed 10 Drams in the 100. Spices of all sorts are sold by the Rottolo 720 Drams , but if ungarble , that is unseparated the good from the bad , 32 Drams in the 100 are allowed , that is 132 for 100 , but if Garbled 10 Ounces only . Galls are allowed for dust , and defect 2 per cent . Aloes Epaticum , Aloes Socotrina , Assafaetida with the Skins , as also Bedellium allow 20 in the 100 for waste . Cinnamon , Cubebs , Cassia Fistula , Oculus Indi , Galbanum , Maces , Opium , Rhubarb , Manna , &c. allow 10 per 100. Camphora , Lignum Alloes , and Nutmegs allow 5 per 100. The Measure used here is the Pico , accounted 27 English Inches . The Coyns found currant , are those common throughout the Ottoman Empire , viz. the Soltany which 80 Medines 120 Aspers and 16 Shillings English . The Lyon Dollar , which is 50 Medines , 80 Aspers , and 10 Shillings English , the Ducat which is 40 Medines , 60 Aspers , and 7 Shillings 6 Pence English . Ryals of 8 / ● have passed 6 ½ per cent . better then Lyon Dollars 1 ½ Ryals 8 / ● hath passed for a Soltany . Their Accompts are kept in Dollars , and Aspers , which go currant amongst the Christian Merchants ; 80 Aspers being accounted to the Dollar , and 1250 Dollars accounted 312 pound 10 Shillings Sterling . The Customs pay'd by the English , are 3 per cent . tho sometimes more , but as it was agreed between the Mustapha Aga , the Receiver of Customers ; and the English Consul I shall set down for the better Instruction of Young Factors , and so conclude the Trade of Aleppo . The Customs thus , Kersies rated at Medines 14 3 / 2 per Peice at 3 per cent . Broad Cloath at 120 Medines per Cloath at 3 per cent . Cony-Skins the Bundle containing 50 Skins , at 14 Dollars . Tinn rated at 50 Rotolo's per chest , and 32 Dollars is 137 ½ Dollars . Indico at 587 Medines per chest . Galls at 12 Dollars per Rottolo . Grograms the Bale at 33 Dollars . Fidales per Quintal at 33 Dollars . Cotton Wool , per cent . 33 Dollars . Quilt per Baile 50 Dollars . Battanos per Bale 80 Dollars , Corduvants per Bale 80 Dollars , Turmerick per Rotolo 80 Medines , Gum Dragant per Bale 60 Dollars ; all Spices , as Cloves , Mace , Nutmegs , Cinamon , &c. pay 21 per cent . but are rated at 14 per cent . less then the same Cost ; as Commodities of India , viz. Nutmegs valued at Medines 6 ; Cloves per Rottolo at 160 , Mace per Rottolo 220 , Cinamon per Rottolo at 30 Medines ; Pepper is charged but with half Custom , and consequently rated at half less then it cost ; and thus much for the Trade of Aleppo . CHAP. XXXIII . A View of Tripoly , and the Trade thereof . THis City , to distinguish it from that Piratical City in Barbary bearing the same name , is called Tripoly of Syria ; and was formerly the Scale of Trade , but it has been of late removed to Aleppo , as is before mentioned ; so that now it has little Trade with Europe , except what the Venetians find there . The Commodities vended , are Cotton in Yarn and Wool , Drugs of several sorts , Corn and some Spices . The Weight used there , is the Rottolo , of 100 pound ; which has been found to be 416 pound Averdupois ; allowing 52 Drams to the Ounce . The Monies currant , are Aspers , Dollars , Lyons , and Soltinies ; the Common Money of Syria ; and thus much for the Trade of that Region . CHAP. XXXIV . A View of Palestine , and the Provinces , Trade , Weights , Measures , Customs , and Currant Coyn thereof . THe Provinces of Palestine are 4 , viz. Galilea , Judaea , Idumea , and Samaria . In these Provinces , the chief Cities are Gaza , and Tyrus ; which at present afford but little Trade , and what is afforded , is carryed on by the Venetians ; the Commodities of the former are Cottons in Wool , and Yarn ; several sorts of Drugs , and Spices . The Coyns currant there are those of Turky , the Weights used are the Rottolo , and Cantar , 100 Rotolo's going to the Cantar . The latter , viz. Tyrus , formerly very famous for Navigation ; as appears by the Description of that City in Holy Writ , but now wants that Trade , being Subjected by the Turks ; so that what Trade remains is amongst themselves , or such Neighbours as do not make any great advantage thereof ; their Weights , Measures , and Coyns , are those used throughout the Turkish Dominions . CHAP. XXXV . A View of Armenia , and the Provinces thereof , together with the Trade ; as likewise of Arabia , the Provinces , and Trade thereof . ARmenia is bounded on the East with Media , and the Caspian Sea , on the West with the River Euphrates , and the Euxian Sea , on the North with Tartary , and on the South with Mesopotamia ; and divided into 3 Provinces , viz. Georgia , Colchis , and Turcomania ; and is in Subjection to the Grand Signeour , and abounds in Cattle , Fruits , Corn , and such like ; but has little Commerce with Merchants , especially by Navigation . Arabia is divided into 3 parts , viz. Arabia Desarta , Arabia Petrosa , and Arabia Faelix . The first of which is bounded on the East with the Persian Gulph , on the West with the Red Sea , on the North with Mesopotamia , and on the South with the Arabian Ocean ; and is memorable for nothing more , then the Children of Israels wandering in it 40 Years , in their Journey out of Egypt to the Land of Promise ; being altogether Barren ; nor is the second less sterile , so that the Inhabitants live upon Robberies , and Spoil of such Merchants Goods as pass through upon Camels to Aleppo , and other Places . Arabia Faelix differs from the former , as being Fertile even beyond Expression , exceeding the Richest Country in Asia in it's abounding with Balsoms , Mirrh , Frankincense , Gold , Pearls , Spices , Manna , and Drugs of most sorts which are carryed by the Merchants to Aleppo , and other Mart Cities and Towns , and from thence dispersed over the known World. The chief Towns are Medina , and Mecha , famous for being the one the Birth place , and the other the Burial place of the Impostor Mahomet ; as also Aden . The Weights and Measures , are the same with those of Morocco , and Tunis ; and their Coyns are the Asper , the Soltany , and Chequin , &c. CHAP. XXXVI . A View of Assyria , Mesopotamia , Chaldea , &c. ASsyria is bounded on the North with Armenia , on the East with Media , on the West with Mesopotamia , and on the South with Persia ; and is famous for its Metropolis , the great City Ninive ; which is now ruined by War , but is a Province where at present little or no Trade is driven , and therefore I shall the more lightly pass it over . Mesopotamia is in subjection to the Ottoman Empire , and has for its chief City Carumite , the Seat of the Turkish Bashaw , but is of little note as to Trade . Chaldea is famous for comprehending the great City of Babylon , now called Bagdet , Builded first by Nimrod , and afterwards inlarged , to the circuit of 60 Miles , by Semiramis whose Walls were 200 Foot high , and 75 Foot broad ; and is saluted by the River Euphrates , and at this day keeps Correspondence with Aleppo , by Carravans , and Camels ; so that it retains a considerable Trade : and what is worthy of note , their advice to and from distant places , is received by the means of Pigeons , which is in this manner effected ; When the Hen sits , they carry the Cock a days Journey , and then fast'ning a Letter about his Neck , let him go , who immediately Flyeth Home , and there the Letter is received by such as watch his return , and so by degrees bring them to such perfection , that in 24 Hours , a Letter will be carryed 100 or 150 Miles . The Commodities of this Place , are the same with those of Aleppo , and their Weights , the Dram , Mittagal , Rottolo , and Cantar ; the Rottolo being 1 pound 10 Ounces English . Their Measure is the Pico , which is found to be 27 Inches English , and their Coyns those usual throughout the Turkish Empire , and therefore 't is needless to repeat them . CHAP. XXXVII . A View of Media , and the Provinces thereof , as also of their Trade , Weights , Measures , and the like . MEdia is bounded on the West with Armenia , on the South with Persia , on the North with the Caspian Sea , and on the East with Parthia ; the chief Cities are Tauris , Sultania , and Derbent ; of which the former is the Metropolis , and commonly made the Summer Seat of the Persian Sophy , and is conjectured to contain 100000. Inhabitants ; the Trade thereof consists chiefly in Raw-Silk , of which there is store ; which is Traded for by our English Merchants , and others , and what remains is sent to Aleppo , viz 2000. Summs yearly ; the City affords likewise rich Carpets , and some Drugs , Spices , Cottons , Galls , Allum , and the like ; it being now in the Subjection of the Persian Monarch . The Weights and Measures , are for the most part the same with those of Babylon , viz. the Rottolo , Cantar , and Pico ; the Country round about is very Fertile in Corn , and plants , as also in the producing all manner of necessaries , for the production of Cattle . CHAP. XXXVIII . A View of Persia , The Province● , Cities , Trade , Weights , Measures , and Commodities thereof . PErsia is bounded on the East with the River Indus , on the South with the main Ocean , on the North with the Caspian Sea , and on the West with Tygris , and the Persian Gulf ; and is divided into 11 Provinces , viz. Persis , Susiana , Caramania , Gedrosia , Drangiania , Arica , Arachosia , Parapomisus , Saccha , Hircania , and Ormus ; all large Provinces . Persis has of late changed it's name to that of Far , and is bounded with the Persian Gulph , Caramania , Susiana , and Media ; and abounds in rich Merchandise , especially Silk , Drugs , and some Spices . Casbin is now accounted the chief City of Persia , and lately the residency of the Sophies , and is adorned with many stately Edifices , but chiefly Beautifyed with the Bussars or Exchanges , which are many , and stored with Rich Commodities ; as Jewels , Drugs , Spices , Silks , either in Damasks , Velvets , or Raw ; where likewise the Merchants of several Nations Trading thither , meet in the same manner as at London . Their Weights , Measures , and Coyns , agree with those of Hisphan ; of which in order I shall Treat , and therefore refer the Reader to View them there . Balsara is Seated on the Persian Gulph , upon the mouth of Euphrates ; and contains the Commodities of Arabia , Turky , India , and Persia , by Reason of it's commodious Situation , and is in Subjection to the Grand Signeour , as reduced to his Obedience by force of Armes , Anno 1550. And pays Customs to his Intendant or Vizar Bashaw 5 per cent . upon Cloaths , Silks , and the like ; but to every 100 a Tare , or allowance of 3 pound is Customary , and their Weights is generally the Wesun accounted 16 of them to the Cantar of Aleppo . Casan is frequented by the Merchants of India , and the Commodities for the most part consist of the Manufacture of the Citizens , as Shashes , Turbants , Girdles , Velvets , Sattins , Dammask , Ormustus Carpets , &c. and thither are brought Diamonds , Pearles , Rubies , Turquoisies , Spices , &c. and a Law there is , that all Persons above the Age of 6 Years shall give up their Names to the Magistrate ; and with a Satisfactory account by what means he or she get their Livings , and if they be found in a false Tale , they are either Battooned , or put to some Publick slavery for a time . Caramania is a Fertile Province , as to necessary Provisions , and other ways only worthy of note , for the Cloath of Gold made there ; as for Gedrosia , Drangiana , Arica , Arachosia , Parapomisis , Saccha , and Hircania , they are of little note as to Trade , and therefore I shall pass them over . Ormus the last Province of Persia , is exceedingly in request , abounding in Commodities of Value , and is divided by an Arm of the Sea , of 12 Miles over from the Continent , and is much frequented by Merchants , Trading in those parts . The Commodities are chiefly Carpets , Tapestry , Shashes , Grograms , Mohairs , Turky Camlets , Arabian Drugs , Indian Gems , and Spices , it being the Principal Mart , or Magazine of all the Eastern Commodities ; for in April and September , the Carravans come thither strongly Guarded from Aleppo , Syria , and other Countries , taking Ship at Balsara , and bring all manner of Rich Commodities , that are to be found in the Traffick of the Mediterranean . The most advantagious Sea-ports in those parts are Jasques , and Gombroue , where the English Ships Trade for this Kingdom , as likewise the Camels , and Drommidaries of the Indian , and other Merchants that Travel by Land. Their Weight is the Dram , 96 of which make a pound Averdupois . Their Measures are the Coveda , short and long ; the former is accounted 27 , and the latter 37 Inches , and are used in measuring the proper Manufacture of Persia . The Monies currant are the Bessee of Copper , which is 4 Cosbags , the Shahee of Silver , which is 2 ½ Bessees , 29 Cosbegs , or 4 pence Sterling ; the Abashee of Silver , which is 2 Mamothis , 40 Cosbegs , or 16 pence Sterling ; the Mamothis which is 2 Shahees , 29 Cosbegs or 8 pence Sterling , The Asar of Gold which is 20 Shahees , or 6 Shillings 6 pence Sterling . The Toman of Gold which is 10 Asars , or 3 pound 6 Shillings 8 pence Sterling , as also the Larrees , which are reckoned at 10 pence Sterling . CHAP. XXXIX . A View of Hispahan , and of the Trade thereof . HIspahan formerly called Hecatompolis , from it 's 100 Gates , is one of the Principal Cities of the Persian Dominions ; Beautifyed with Red Marble-Walls , of prodigious height , stately Buildings , as Palaces , Seraglio's , and the like ; adorned with Ivory , Ebony , Alabaster , and Carpets of Silk and Gold. The Inhabitants do all their business on Horseback , unless such as are Slaves ; and the City abounds in the stores of India , Arabia , Turky , Russia , and China , which for the most part are brought thither upon Dromidaries ; and again disposed of to such Merchants as Trade thither . The price of Carriage is thus , 100 Maunds of Wares from Sciras to Hispahan cost 70 Sehids , and from Hispahan to Casan 60 Sehids , from Hispahan to Ormus , by Sciras 120 Sehids ; and lastly from Hispahan to Tauris 40 Sehids . The Weights are the Dram , the Mittigal , and the Maund , or Maundshaw , 100 of the first make 66 ⅔ of the Second , and of the second 1200 maketh the third : the Measures are the Cavedo , long and short , and are as in the foregoing Chapter ; as also the Coyns currant here agree with those of Ormus . Silks are found here in abundance , both wrought and Raw. And thus much for Persia , and the Trade thereof . CHAP. XL. A View of Tartaria , of the Trade , Weights , Measures , Currant Coyns , and Customs thereof . TArtary the next division of Asia , is bounded on the West with Muscovia , on the South with the Caspian Sea and Hill Taurus , on the East with the main Ocean , and on the North with the Frozen Sea , and is divided into 5 Kingdoms or Provinces , under the Subjection of the great Cham , viz. Precopensis , Asiatica Antiqua , Zagathai , and Cathaia ; but for as much as the last Province , is only abounding in known Trade , and yields the Commodities of all the rest : I shall only insist upon it , and in the Description of the Trade of Cambalu , lay down what ever is to be found in that vast Country . Cambalu is the Metropolitan of Cathai , through which Runs the River Po●●sanga and is in circuit accounted 28 Miles , adorned with stately Pallaces , and other Edifices , being the Seat of the great Cham ; who maintains 5000 Astrologers or Wizards , and 12 or 14000 Horse for his ordinary Guard. The Merchants that Trade thither , have their Caves or Store-Houses in the Suburbs , which are in great number . The Commodities of the Country are Rice , Grain , Ruhbarb , Coral , Silk , Wool , Hemp , and the like ; they have likewise Silver Mines , and some yielding Gold Ore , yet their Coyn for the most part is made of the inmost Bark of a Mulbery Tree cut round , stamped with the Princes Seal , and upon pain of Death , none dare Coyn any other , or refuse to take it , tho in some places they have pieces of Coral , twigs of Gold , and Salt Loaves which go at certain rates in Exchange ; but the money is as aforesaid , and those Merchants are obliged to take it for their Richest Commodities , and put it away again for such as the Country affords ; they have Spices , Gems , and Drugs ; but not of natural growth , but are beholden to the Arabians and Indians for them ; their Country by Reason of the long continuing cold , not being capable of producing them . Their Weights are those used generally throughout the Provinces , viz. the gross Cantar , and the small Cantar ; the former of which is only used in weighing Gross Goods , and is accounted 268 pound English , the small Cantar is 103 pound English . All their Grain , and other such like Commodities , they vend by a Measure , called the Chistetto which makes 8 ½ Staios Venice . The Measure for Silks , Stuffs , and Cloath is the Pico , 100 of which make 126 Braces Venice . And thus much for Tartary ; which is mostly Inhabited by Thieves and Rovers ; who rather live by Spoil then Trade , being morose , Savage people , fit for so cold and Barren a Country , as for the most part . Therefore leaving this Frozen Clime , I shall pass into India far more Fruitful and Commodious . CHAP. XLI . A View of India , intra , & extra Gangem , of the Provinces , Trade , Customs , and valuable Commodities thereof . INdia is bounded on the West with the River Indus , on the East with China , on the North Tartary , and on the South with the Ocean ; and is divided into 2 parts , viz. India Intra Gangem , and India Extra Gangem ; the first contains nine Principal Kingdoms , viz. Narsinga , Malavar , Ballasia , Cambaia , Mandao , Bengala , Aristan , Canora , and Dellia ; and the second 7 Kingdoms , viz. Macin , Aracan , Chambaia , Couchin-china , Barma , Siam , and Pegu. The whole Country taking its Name from the River Indus , which runs 1000. Miles ere it meets the Sea. As for the Trade of the Indies , I shall briefly lay it down in the Description of the Principal Scales of Traffick , and first of Diu. Diu is an Island lying about 20 Leagues distant from the River Indus , and is under the protection of the King of Portugal , the Portugals indeed being the first Discoverers of those Tracts ; and have a very good Haven for Shipping , whither resort the Merchants of Arabia , Turky , Persia , Armenia , &c. bringing the Richest Commodities of the growth of those Nations , as likwise all the Banians , Gusrates , and Rumos ; that Trade in Cambaia , and from thence to the Red-Sea and Meca , bring thither their Merchandise . The Commodities this place affordeth , are Cotton of Linnen of sundry sorts , which there are called Jorims , Sluyers , and Lamparads , and are in England called Callico's ; also there are abundance of Cocus-Oyl , Indian-Nuts , Butter , Pitch , Tar , Sugar-Candia , Iron , excellent Leather Artificially wrought with Silks of all Colours ; Chests , Cupboards , Boxes , of curious work inlay'd with Mother Pearl and other rare divices . As for the Weights , and Measures of this place , I refer the Reader to the Description of Goa , and the Trade thoreof ; and thus much for the Town and Island of Diu. CHAP. XLII . A View of Cambaia , of the Trade , Weights , Measures , Coyns , Commodities , and Customs thereof . CAmbaia giveth a Kingdom its Name , being the Metropolis of Cambaia ; and is vast in circuit , adjudged to contain no less then 800000. Inhabitants ; Seated upon the River Indus , being a City of the greatest Trade in those Parts , and thither resort Christians , Persians and Arabians ; and there both the English and Dutch have Factories . But the Natives who are called the Gensurates , and Banians , are the Richest Merchants , and greatest Traders ; as likewise of late grown so Politick , that they have an insight into-most Commodities . The Commodities this City and Country afford are Callico's of all sorts , Corn , Rice , Butter , Oyl , rich Carpets , fine Chests , Cupboards , Carved and Imbellished with Mother Pearl , Plates of Silver , Ivory , and the like ; there are found in this Country many precious Stones of great value , as Rubies , Jacinths , Chrisolites , Amber , Jaspar , Spinals , Granads , and Agats , as likewise several Rich Drugs , as Opium , Camphora , Bangue , and Sandal-Wood ; as also Sugars and Indico in abundance . The like Commodities are likewise found in Bianny , Fetterbarre , Shersky , and Labore . In this Tract is the famous Port of Surrat , which at this day the Dutch make their chief Scale of Trade , and whither all the Commodities of these Countries are brought , especially those Subject to the Scepter of the great Mogul . The currant Coyns are Mahomodies tho very Scarce , and are each accounted 12 pence Sterling , the Casanna Ruppy Esteemed worth 3 Shillings 3 pence Sterling , the Jaquire Ruppe , 5 of which make 6 Casanna Ruppies , the Saway Ruppy valued at 11 Shillings 3 pence Sterling , the Honde Ruppy valued at 2 Shillings 3 pence . In which and the Casanna Ruppy , the Merchants of Gusurat keep their Accounts . They have likewise smaller pieces , which are accounted 34 to the Mahmudy , and the Sahhee , which is accounted 10 Cosbegs ; tho in some places they differ in value , tho the difference is inconsiderable . The Weights used throughout the Mogul's Dominions are 3 , one proper for Silk , and the other for all other Merchandise , viz. the pice which in Silk is accounted 5 ½ Mittigals , a Mittigal being about 13 Troy penny Weights , and the Sear small and great , which vary much , viz. the Sear of Surrat is 18 Pices Weight of Copper-money , and accounted 13 ½ Ounces Averdupois , the Sear of Agra called the Sear . Acoberg is 30 Pices and 22 Ounces Averdupois . The Sear of Agra , called the Sear Janquery 36 Pices and 26 ⅔ Ounces Averdupois ; and so in several other places vary according to the Custom of the place . They have in use likewise 2 Maunds , a Maund small of Surrat , being 40 small Sears of that place and 33 pound Averdupois , the other is 40 great Sears , which makes 54 ⅜ pound English , and these are Multiplyed into a Candil of Surrat , and Cambaia which contains 20 Maunds . The Measures at Cambaia & Surrat are two , viz. the Cavado , long & short , the last of which is used in Measuring of Silks , and is 27 Inches English , the first is used in Measuring of Woollen Cloath , and is 35 English Inches ; but in Agra , Labore Dilli , and Brampore , the short Cavado is found to be 32 Inches ; as for Concave Measures , none are found in the Moguls Country , their Liquids as well as Grain , and other dry Commodities being sold by Weight . And thus much for Cambaia and the Trade thereof . CHAP. XLIII . A View of Goa , the Trade , Commodities , Weights , Measures , Coyns , and Customs thereof , and of the Pearl Fishery . GOa is a famous City at present , the Seat of the Portiguize Vice-Roy and Arch-Bishop ; and is Seated in an Island to which it gives Name , and is the chief Mart or Scale of Trade on that part of India ; for hither resort Merchants who bring the Commodities of Persia , Arabia , Armenia , Cambaia , Pegu , Siam , Bengalia , Malacca , Java , Molucco , and China ; a Port it has , Capacious for the Reception of Shipping , but those of great Burthen are obliged to Anchor at Bardes , some Miles short of Goa , by Reason of the Shallowness of the Water , where are purposely Built Sore-Houses , for the reception of such Merchandise as are brought thither , which are set to Sail in the chief Street every day , from 7 to nine in the Morning , in the nature of our Fairs in England ; during which time a great concourse of Merchants and others buy up what Commodities they like best , or can agree for ; and in this place all the Natives of one Craft live in distinct Streets , being injoyned under severe Penalties , not to Marry out of their own Trade , nor put their Children to any other Trade . Their Winter which consists only in terrible Rains , begins about the last of April , and continues till September . The Commodities of the growth of this Island , consist only in Palm-Trees and Cocus ; but hither are brought Silk , Spices , Jewels , and all the Manufactures of India , Arabia , Persia , Armenia , &c. The Weights used here , are the Quintal and Rove , the proper Weights of Portugal , and are used in weighing most European Commodities . They have likewise a Maund of 12 pound Averdupois ; another Weight they have proper to the Weighing of Pepper , which is here found in abundance and nearly corresponds with our neat hundred . Their Measure for Grain , and the like , is the Medida of which 24 make a Maund , and 20 Maunds are 14 Bushels English . Their Measure of Length is consistent with those of Lisbon , to which I refer the Reader . As for their Coyns , they are two sorts , good and bad , so that when Merchants Trade , they as well include in their Bargain , what Coyn they shall receive or pay , as what Goods they buy or sell . The common Money is the Pardus Xeraphin , worth 300 Res of Portugal , or 3 Testons , which are valued at 4 Shillings 6 pence Sterling , one Pardus is worth 4 good Tangas , and one good Tangas is worth 4 good Ventins or 5 Badoves , a Ventine good is worth 18 bad Basarucos or 15 good ones , 3 Basarucos good , are 2 Res of Portugal . There are currant likewise the Persina Larins of Silver worth 110 Basarucos , also the Pagode of Gold worth 10 Tangas , and is accounted 8 Shillings Sterling , the Venetiander of Gold worth two Pardus Sheraphin , the St. Thomas of Gold worth 8 Tangas , the Royal of 8 / ● called Pardus d' Reales worth 440 Res of Portugal ; as for the Larins of Persia , they continue not at any setled price , but rise & fall , as the trade increases or decreases . All the money received in way of Trade , passes through the Hands of the Sheraffs ; a kind of Officers , who for a small consideration for telling each Summ , are bound to make it good , either in Tale or goodness , &c. Having thus far proceeded , I shall now give the Reader a Relation of the Pearl-Fishery ; a View of which may be both pleasant and profitable to the Reader , as thus . When the time of this Fishery draweth near , which is about the middle of March ; the Boats go out , and let down their Divers to find where the Beds of Oysters lye , by Reason they continue not always in one place ; which being found , the Gallies Armed , that are appointed to defend the Fisher-men from Rovers , Anchor , or Cruse at a distance from the Shoar , and then the Fisher-men set up a kind of a Wooden Village to contain their necessaries , and to Lodg in till the time of Fishing be over , and then put out their Boats or Barks , in each of which is 10 men at least , who mooring by their Anchors , fasten a great Stone , or Iron Weight to the end of a Rope , and then one of them Stripping , has his Ears and Nose stopped with Wool , dipped in Oyl , and sometimes a Sponge dipped in Oyl in his mouth , and a Basket fast'ned to his left Arm , or about his Neck ; he gets astride upon the Stone or Weight , and with it Sinks to the Bottom , his Companions holding one end of the Rope , by which when he has filled his Basket , they draw him up , he giving them notice when to do so by pulling the Rope , and when he is come up , another is ready to go down ; and so take it by turns till their Bark is full of Fish ; which then they carry to Shoar and lay on heaps , every Boats heap by it self , and so continue diving , for the most part in 14 or 15 Fathom Water , till the middle of April , or sometimes till the latter end ; by which time those they first took are opened by the heat of the Sun , which drys away the moisture ; and then each Boats Crue and such others as they have to help them fall to searching for the Pearls , but find them not in every Shell , nor at all times of the same perfection ; when the Pearls are gathered , there are certain Persons that View and sort them , dividing them into 4 distinctions , and accordingly set Prices on them , as they are in Largeness , Beauty and Goodness , which they discern by a small instrument full of holes . The divisions of Pearls are these : The first , second , third and fourth sort , viz. the round Pearl which they call the Aja , or Vnja of Portugal , the wrinkled Pearl called the Aja of Bengala , the third sort called the Aja of Canora , and the 4 or worst sort are called Aja Cambaia ; and when they are thus divided , great is the striving amongst the Merchants , who shall make the best purchase ; for note that none are allowed to Fish for them , but such as will pay tribute and acknowledgment for so doing , and indeed few there are that are expert therein . And thus much for the Pearl Fishing . As for the manner of their Sail and the Prices they are sold for in India , I shall speak hereafter . As for the Coast of Malabar , it abounds with Pepper which is bought up by the Portugals , six months before it's Ripe , and when it comes to perfection , stored up till the Arrival of their Ships ; and to this Coast are accounted these places , viz. Romes , Onor , Barsellor , Mongalor , Cananor , Calicut , Granganor , Cochin , Coulon , and Cape de Comery . CHAP. XLIV . A View of Musulipatan , the Trade , Commodities , Weights , Customs , and Coyns thereof . MVsulipatan is the chief Town upon the Coast of Chormandel , where the English have setled a Factory ; as likewise at the Towns of Petipoly and Armagon in the same Tract , all depending upon the former ; the Port and Situation being Commodious , both for the Reception of Shipping ; and Temperate for English Bodies being Eastward ; the Natives are very Industrious in Manufacture , and the Soil yields plenty in abundance , and abounds with most Commodities of India ; from this Coast there is found driven a great Trade into Bengala , Pegu , Siam , and Malacca . In this place it is that the fine Cottons of divers colour sare wrought , and dispersed not only all over India , but throughout the World. The Weight used on this Coast is the Candile , which in the Weight of Gross Goods is found to be 20 Maunds , each Maund being Accounted 26 pound 14 ½ Ounces English . As for Measures I find not any , they usually weighing both dry and Liquid Commodities ; the Customs were once 12 per cent . but now reduced to 4. The currant Coyns along this Coast is the Pagode of Gold , the Mahomudy and Fanan of Silver , the Pagode being valued at 15 Fanans , or 8 Shillings English , a Fanan is 9 Cashees , which are accounted 6 pence ¾ Sterling , they have likewise Ryals of Spain and other Coyns , the Mamody is as is before recited 12 pence English . CHAP. XLV . A View of Satagan , the Metropolis of Bengala , the Trade of that Coast and the River Ganges , and the Commodities , Weights , Customs , &c. THis Coast beginneth where the before-mentioned endeth , through the middle of which runneth the famous River Ganges , making a large Bay or Gulph , called the Bay of Bengala ; and is under the Protection of the great Mogul , whose Coyns are currant in those Parts . As for the River Ganges , the Natives and many other of far Countries , imagine it to be of that Virtue , that it can cure many distempers , and by Drinking and Bathing therein , make them capable of obtaining Paradice , which Superstitious conceipt , brings many from distant Places on Pilgrimage ; which Creates a great Trade in Satagan , the chief City on this Coast , which is Seated on a River some distance from Ganges , up which the Tide runneth 100. Miles , and more , so swift that Boats drive with incredible speed without Sails or Oars ; at the entrance of this River , is a place called the Butter , where Merchants Build Booths of Straw and Branches of Trees , against the coming in of the Ships , and furnish them with all manner of Merchandise , by Reason the River will not admit of Ships of great Burthen so high as Satagan , the which sheds when the Ships depart , they set on fire and remove their Goods to Satagan ; nor are the Commodities vended her a few , for no less then forty Ships of Divers Nations , find sufficient to Load them and some to spare . The chief Commodities found on this Coast are Rice , Cloath of Cotton of divers sorts , Lacca , Sugar , Mirabolans , Long-Pepper , Oyl of Zerseline , &c. and from this City the Merchants Trade to Pegu , Musulipatan , and Summatra ; and for the most part to avoid being incommoded by the heat , they meet and Trade in the Night , and what Goods are bought here by the Natives , are carryed up the River in Boats , and sold in other Cities and Ports . In these parts the English - East-India Company has Factories , and greatly improve themselves thereby ; the Portugals likewise in this Tract have 2 small Forts , but no considerable Trade , that Nation of late much declining in matters of Navigation . The Weights and Coyns are much the same with those of Musulipatan . Having thus far proceeded , it will not be amiss to give the Reader an Account of a strange Custom used in this Tract , which is , that if any Debtor break the day of payment by him consented to , his Creditor goes to the Principal Bramen , or Arch-Priest , and procures of him a Rod , with which he makes a circle round his debtor , charging him in the Name of the King and the said Bramen , not to depart out of it till he has satisfyed the debt , which if he does not , he must either starve there or by coming out forfeit his Life to the Laws of the Country ; but this is only amongst the Natives . CHAP. XLVI . A View of Pegu , and the Trade , Customs , Weights and Coyns , of the Coast thereof . PEgu is divided into two parts . In the one the King and his Nobles reside , in the other the Artificers , Merchants , and Mariners ; that wherein the former reside is called the New-Town , and where the latter Inhabit the old-Town ; about which is a Moat of exceeding breadth , in which are many Crocadils kept purposely , and all the Walls Beautifyed with Turrets , Guilded with Gold ; the Streets are fair , and set on each side with rows of Palm-Trees , to keep off the Sun from such as Pass through them ; and upon the Arrival of the Ships , by the help of the Monson or Trading Wind , great is the concourse of Merchants , who come from the Coast of Cormandel and other Places , bringing Pointados , wrought Cotton , and other Merchandise from Maecca , whence come several great Ships laden with Damasks , Woollen Cloath , Velvets , and Cheqens . From Malacca Vessels Arrive laden with Pepper , Porcelan , Sanders , Camphora , and other Rich Commodities . There Arrives several Vessels likewise from Sumatra , with Pepper , and other Commodities , who for the most part Anchor in a Port called Cosmia , not far distant from the City ; as for the Customs they are narrowly looked into by Broakers , who are imployed for that purpose , and have two per cent . out of all Commodities , paying Custom for their own share , and are bound to sell the Merchants Goods for them , and to make good what debts they contract , or false money they take upon that occasion , and in their dealings they are very Just ; as likewise they are bound to find Lodgings and Ware-Houses for Merchants ; their contracts are made in Publick , yet in such a method that none but the parties concerned can tell what is done , for by putting their Hands under a Carpet , and squesing such and such Joynts , they know each others meanings without speaking a word , which is registred by the Broaker , if they come to a conclusion , in Leaves of Trees , used there instead of Paper . When a Merchant-Stranger comes thither , the Governour sends several Maids to him , to take his choise , which done he must agree with her Parents ; and then she serves him , during his stay for both Wife and Servant , and when he departs , paying what he agreed for , she returns home , and if afterward she be marryed , and he comes to that place , he may have her during his stay , her Husband not in the least making a Scruple thereof , and when he departs , he may send her to her Husband . The Native Commodities in this Tract , are Gold , Rubies , Spinals , Saphirs , Silver ; which are digged at a Place called Caplan . There is likewise store of Benjamin , Long-Pepper , Lead , Rice , Niper-Wine , and Sugar , the growth of the Country not being liable to Custom . The currant Coyn of this coast is the Gausa , made of Copper and Lead , and is Coyned by any that list , so they state it to a certain Weight , which if it be not , it is soon discerned by the Broakers or Tellers who reject it , and that Weight is called a Biso , and is accounted for ½ Ryal of 8 / 8 or 2 Shillings 6 pence Sterling . CHAP. XLVII . A View of Sian , and Malacca , and of their Trades , Commodities , Coyns , &c. FIrst in the Tract or Coast of Siam , are found the Cities of Tenaserim , and Pattana , in the last of which an English Factory is Established ; but Siam is the chief , and was before it's being reduced by the King of Pegu , who besieged it with a Million and 400000. men , the chief City of these Parts of India , and to it as yet Merchants Trade from Couchin-China , Macan , Cantor , Malacca , and Cambaia ; as likewise from the Islands of Sumatra , Banda , and Borneo ; and has divers Commodities brought from the Inland Cities of Martavan , and Tenaserim , and is Situate on the famous River Menan , which runneth athwart India , and arises from the Lake Chiama ; which every March overfloweth its Banks for 100. Miles , during which time the Commerce and Correspondence is held by Boats. The principal Commodities are Cotton , Linnens of all sorts , distilled Liquors , by the Natives called Nipe , it being extracted from Cocos , as likewise Benjamin , Lack , and precious Wood called by the Portugals Palo-Dangula , and Calamba , making Rich Perfumes , and is Weighed often against Silver and Gold , and the Wood Sapon used by Dyers ; Camphora , Bezora-Stones and Gold in abundance , as likewise some Diamonds of great value , also Nutmegs , Mace , and other Spices . The Coyns currant in this Tract , are the Tail , valued at 4 Ticals , or 18 Shillings Sterling ; a Tical is Accounted 4 Mals , or 4 Shillings 6 pence Sterling , &c. Malacca is Situate between Siam and Pegu , and is Subject to the Portugals , as Conquered by them Anno 1511. and has it's Walls saluted by the River Gasa , 10 Miles broad , and abounds with the Commodities of China , Mul●oco's , Java , Sumatra , Banda , Siam , Pegu , Bengala and the Coasts of Chormandel , brought thither by Ships that carry back the Commodities of the growth of this Tract ; as likewise Ships from Lisbone come yearly hither , and lade rich Merchandise . Here it is observed that the Trade-Winds continue West , and North-West from the end of August to the end of October ; and in November , the Northen and North-Eastterly Winds begin to blow , which continue so to do till the beginning of April ; and from May to the beginning of August , the South and South-West Wines Blow . The Weights on this Coast , are the Cattee Babar , and the Pecul ; but in Malacca only the former , which is divided into 2 parts , viz. the great and the small , making the first 200. Cattees , reckoning each Cattee at 21 pound Averdupois , and the last 100. Cattees , which make 295 pound English . The Pecul is 100. Cattees of China , and is accounted 132 pound English . The Cattee as aforesaid used in this Tract is Accounted 21 pound Averdupois , but sometimes varies . By the great Babar , they commonly weigh Cloves , Nutmegs , Pepper , Saunders , Indico , Allum , Sanguis-Draconis , Palo-Dangula , and Comphora ; and by the lesser Quick-Silver , Copper , Vermillion , Ivory , Silk , Musk , Amber , Lignum Aloes , Tinn , Lead , Verdet , and Benjamin . As for Measures they are rarely used , and indeed so uncertain , that I shall pass them over . The Coyns are those for the most part common in India , as Mahomoodies , Portugal-Rees , &c. CHAP. XLVIII . A View of the Kingdom of China , the Trade and Commodities thereof . CHina is a large Kingdom , bounded on the West with India , on the North with the Wall of China , extending in Length 1000. Miles to keep out the Tartars , on the South with the Ocean , and on the East with Mare del Zur , and is a very Fertile Country ; Temperate and Healthful , which renders it Populous , it has great Commerce within it self , by the advantage of the many Navigable Rivers , tho their Goods are carryed for the most part in Boats made of Cane . The Commodities it yieldeth are Wool , Rice , Barly , Oyl , Wine , Flax , Cottons , and Raw Silk ; which they work into many curious Textures ; here are wrought likewise many rare Stuffs , & are found all sorts of Mettals to be brought from Japan ; as Gold , Silver , Copper , &c. Fruits , Wax , Sugar , Honey , Ruhbarb , China-Roots , Purslaine-Dishes , commonly called China-Dishes , Champhir , Ginger , Musk , Civit , Amber , and all manner of Spices , and Salt ; which last is said in one City only , viz. Cantor to yield Custom to the Prince yearly 180000. Ducats . This Kingdom is divided into 15 Provinces , each Province containing 2 Kingdoms , in all which as Writers affirm are contained 1597 Cities , and great Walled Towns 1154. Castles , and 4200. Burroughs without Walls Garrisoned with Souldiers ; besides Villages Innumerable . The chief City being Quinsay-Pequin , walled about 100. Miles , and has in the midst of it a Lake of 30. Miles compass ; in which are 2 Islands , and in them Pallaces and other fair Buildings , for the King and his Nobles , the said King Stiling himself the Child of the Sun. And upon the Rivers which Issue from this Lake , are found 12000. Bridges , it being reckoned that the King can make 10000. Sail of Ships , and Barks of his own which he keeps on the Rivers to Transport his Armies in time of War ; the Natives for the most part Trade up and down the Rivers , and are so cautious , that they will not suffer any Stranger to inspect their Affairs , so that their Weights , Measures , and manner of Traffick are not effectually known , tho the Portugals , Dutch , and Neighbouring Islanders , have of late obtained the favour of some small Commerce at Canton , Meccan , and Nanquin ; but upon such strict conditions , that in some places it is Death for them to abide a Night , either in the Town or Suburbs , but must at aset Hour retire to their Ships ; and the better to discover it , they have Notaries to take the Names of all that enter the Gates in the Morning , the which if the Persons owning them , do not come to see them Blotted out at the time prefixed , and afterwards be found , tho not in the City , it is present Death , except the Factor for the Portugals , who is permitted to live in the Suburbs . And to Maccan the Portuguese have a Ship of 1500. Tuns , that comes yearly from the Indies ; bringing Oyl , Drinking-Glasses , Looking-Glasses , and Velvet , for which they receive of the Chinois , the growth and Manufacture of their Country . The Weights , Measures , and Coyns , that are used in the Places where Trade is permitted , are known to be these . The Weights for fine Goods are the Valls and Tay , 99 Valls making a Tay of Maccan ; and a Tay or Tayle is 1 Ounce and 11 / 16 Averdupois . Their Weights for Gold , Silver , Musk , Amber-Greece , &c. are the Tays or Tayels , by some called Tans , Mass , Condreens , Cash , Avons ; which are usually marked with Ciphers for distinction sake , 10. Avos is one Cash , 10. Cash one Condreen , 10. Condreens to one Mass , 10. Mass to one Tay , and 16. Tays or Tayles to on Cattee , the Tay being as aforesaid . All Gross Goods are weighed by Cattees , Peculs , and Rotolos ; 10. Cattees making 1. Pecul , 1. Pecul 128 Rotolos of Portugal , which Pecul is Accounted 131 pound ¼ Averdupois , tho here as in other Places the Weights vary . The Coyns currant for the most part are Spanish Rotolos of ● / ● which they cut into several parts , and so pass them away by Estimate . The Measures in use are the Covid of Maccan , used by the Portugals in the Measure of Stuffs and Silks , and is Accounted 3. Quarters of a Yard and 2 1 / ● Inches and a Covid used by the Chinois , called the Covid of Chinchoses , which consists of 12 Inches , also an other Covid they have of 14 6 / 5 Inches . And thus much for China , and the Trade thereof . CHAP. XLIX . A View of the Islands , found in the Asian Seas , and of their Trade and growth . THe Asian Islands of note are Japan , Zeilan , Moluccos , Java's , Summatra , Borneo , Celebs , and Cyprus ; all abounding in rich Commodities . Of the Trade of which in brief . Japan is Situate a small distance from the main Land of China , and is in length 600. miles , but not above 90. over in the broadest , yet obeys many Soveraigns ; every King or Lord , having Power and Authority over the lives and Estates of his Subjects ; the chief Towns on this Island are Osacaia , Bunguin , and Meaco ; being Havens or Ports for the reception of such Vessels as come to Trade thither . The chief Commodities consisting in Silver and Rice , of the latter there is found such abundance , that the chief Soveraign has 2 Millions of Ducats yearly , accruing by that Commodity ; and in Fiando one of the Islands appertaining to Japan , the English have setled a Factory . The Weights in use are the Pecul and Cattee , the Pecul consisting of 100. Cattees , each Cattee being 21 Ounces which renders the Pecul in Cira 131 pound English , the Measures of length are the Inchin or Tattamy , which is 2 ⅛ English Yards , their concave Measures are the Cocas , which is a Pint English Winchester Measure , 3 of which is a Gant , 100. Gants are an Ickgoga , 100. Icklogags are one Ickmagog , and 1000. Ickmagogs are one Mangoga . Their Coyns are the Tale , Mass , and Condery . The Tale is 5 Shillings Sterling , the Mass which contains 10 Conderies , is 6 pence Sterling ; they have 2 Barrs of Gold currant likewise amongst them , which are called Ichebo , and Coban ; the former of which is Accounted worth 30 Shillings Sterling , and the latter 34 Shillings 6 pence Sterling . Zelan is a fair Island , in the Gulph of Bengala , and is so Fruitful , that the Trees have continual Blosoms , green and ripe Fruit on them ; and is a Portugueze Factory , tho under the obedience of the great Mogul , and in it are found Nutmegs , Clove , and Pepper Trees good store , and likewise Cinnamon , the primest sort growing in Groves , it also yieldeth many precious Stones , as Rubies , Topaz , Garnati ; Spinals , and on the Coast store of Pearls are gotten by Fishing . There are likewise found some Mines of Gold and Silver , Iron , Brimstone , and Flax growing ; and in the Woods is a Beast found , whose Bones are much of the nature of Ivory . Their Weights , Measures , and Coyns , are either those of Portugal or India ; the Natives being a People of great Subtlety , and in Body the most Active in Asia . CHAP. L : A View of the Isles of Molucco's , also the Trade , Weights , Measures , and currant Coyns there in use , and of the other adjacent Islands . THese Islands commonly called the Islands of Moluccos's , are 5 in number , viz. Molucco the chief , Tarnate , Tider , Gelolo , and Macian . There are likewise not far distant Benda , and 70 other Islands , all of which yield Spices , as Nutmegs , Cloves , Mace , and some Cinnamon , all growing in them ; there is also in this Gulph or Sea Amboina , where the Barbarous Dutch committed Inhumane Cruelties on the English Factors , &c. and afterwards contrary to their contracted agreement , cut down and killed all the Clove Trees , in the Island of Polerone , purchased of them by the English . The common Coyn in Moluccoes , Amboina , and Benda , is the Spanish Rotolo ½ , what otherwise they Barter for is in Commodities . Their Weights are the Babar and Catte , the Amboinian Babar being 200. Cattes , or English 625 pound , and is Accounted the great Babar , and in some Islands they have a Babar 10 times as much as the Amboinian Babar . A Cattee is near 6 pound English , and 10 Cattes of Mace are Accounted a small Babar , and valued at 10 Ryals of 8 , yet the small Babar of Nutmegs is 100. Cattes , and valued as the Mace. The Measures of Length are the Cubit , and Fathom , and Concave Measures for Grain and Pepper ; the Canton which is near 3 Quarts English , and the Quoian , which is 800. Cantons . The chief Trade of these Islands , being of late Ingrossed by the Dutch ; who have of late been found Superiour to the Portugals , who first Discovered them , and held for many years the Principal Commerce with the Indians . CHAP. LI. A View of the Java's , and the Trade of that Tract , of the Weights , Measures , Native Commodities , Coyns , &c. THe Java's are two Islands , viz. the great and the less , the greater being in circuit 3000. Miles , and the lesser 2000 , and by Reason of their nearness to the Equinoctial are exceeding Fruitful , and have for their chief Cities Paluban , Pegar , Agaim , Balambua , Basnia , Samara , Limbrie , and others ; but the chief Scales of Trade are at Sunda , Calapa , Bantum , Jacatra , now Battavia , and Japarra ; in the last 3 of which the English have Factories . The Commodities with which these Islands abound , are Cloves , Nutmegs , Mace , Pepper , Indian Nuts , Rice , Cattle , &c. the Pepper is Accounted the best in India ; and grows in such abundance , that yearly the English buy up great store , the Islands not being judged to produce less then 10 or 12000. Quintals ; each Season there is found likewise Camphora , Frankincense , Benjamin , and precious Stones ; amongst which some Diamonds of great value , for which Commodities the Natives receive Callicoes of divers Colours , Cotton , Cloath , Silks , Stuffs , Glasses , Knives , and the like ; in Sunda the principal Mart of Java major , their Principal money is small Copper pieces , hung upon Strings called Caix's , and are told out by the 100 , or 1000 ; 200 being Accounted a Satta , 5 Sattas being a Crusado of Portugal , or in English money , valued at about 6 Shillings . But the European Merchants keep their Accounts for the most part in Ryals of 8 / ● Spanish and pence , 60 pence going to the Rotolo 9 / ● . The Weights of Bantam , Jucatra , Japparra , and at Sunda are the Pecul , Cattee , and Babar , the Cattee contains 20 Ounces , and 100. Cattees are a Pecul , or 125 pound English , a Babar is 330. Cattees of 20. Ounces and supposed to make good Weight 412 pound Averdupois . Their Concave Measure is the Timbam chiefly in use for Rice and Pepper ; and is Accounted 10. Sackfuls , or to contain 5 Peculs in Weight , so that each Sack is reckoned at 62 ½ pound Averdupois 2 Sacks making a Pecul . As for Measures of length , they are rarely used here , and those that are , are consistent with those of England , Portugal , and Holland . CHAP. LII . A View of the Trade of Summatra , and other Islands , lying in the Indian Seas . THis Island was formerly called Traprobana , and then Esteemed to be the largest in the World ; being in length 700. Miles , and in breadth 200. Miles , and is divided by the Equator , one half lying beyond , and the other on this side the Equinoctial ; which renders it exceeding Fertile and Healthful , so that there are found many Rich Commodities of the Native production , as Pepper , Ginger , Aloes , Raw Silk , Cassia , Gold , Silver , Brass , and Drugs of Divers sorts ; there is likewise found a Brimstone mount that continually Burns , as likewise 2 Fountains yielding the one Balsamum , and the other Oyl ; yet not any considerable store . The chief Cities of this Island are Daren , Pacen , and Andryede ; the whole being divided under many Kings , and the chief Ports are Achin , Ticko Jambe , and Priuran ; in most of which the English have Factories . This Island standing not above 20 Miles from Malucca , a great part of the Native Commodities are carryed thither , that Island being in the possession of the Portuguize , tho of late much infested by the Dutch , who have got Footing , and Built some Fortresses on the Sea Coast . In this Island of Summatra upon its first Discovery , the Islanders had a Barbarous Custom to eat man's Flesh ; and hoard up their Sculls , which they passed from one to the other as currant Coyn , he being counted the best man that had most Sculls by him , but of late they have in imitation of the Europeans , Coyned money both Gold and Silver , as the Mass worth about 12 pence Sterling , the Tale which is 16 Masses , and the Cattee which is 8 Tales , or sometimes 7 ½ Tales is Accounted a Cattee , and these Coyns are currant throughout the King of Achin's Dominions , who is the most Potent Prince in the Island . Tho at Jambe Ticko , and Priaman ; the European Coyns are most in use , and the Accounts are for the most part kept in Spanish ℞ 8 / 8 and for their better Conveniency they divide them into 60 Deniers or pence . The Weight used in this Island is the Babar , tho it varies according to the Custom of the place where it is used ; but in the English Factories , the Babar is found to consist of 200. Cattees , each Cattee containing 29 Ounces Averdupois , by multiplying which the Babar must contain 360 pound English Sotile Weight . The Isle of Borneo stands in this Tract , and is crossed by the Equator , being near 2200 Miles in circuit , and is Fruitful even to a wonder , abounding with Spices and other Rich Commodities , as Nutmegs , Mace , Cloves , Agrick , Sweet-Woods , Camphora , Diamonds , Gold , and the Bezoar-Stone , as likewise Cattle , and Fruits of strange tasts , and shapes in abundance , and has for it's Metropolis the City Borneo ; Seated in a Marsh , after the nature of Venice , from which the Island takes its Name . The Isle of Celebs is likewise a fair and Fertile Island lying in the same Tract and divided by the Equator , as the 2 former , and abounds with the like Rich Commodities , and has for its chief Ports Durati , Mamaio , Tubon , Maccasar , &c. and is divided under many Princes or Petty Kings , and is a Factory of the English . The Weights used in most Ports are the Ganton , Zicoyan , and Mass . The former being used both for a Weight and a Measure , and is in Weight counted 5 pound Averdupois , and in Measure 2 Gallons English , the Mass Weight is 4 Gantons or 200 pound English , a Zicoyan is 20 Masses or 400 pound English ; and in Measure proportioned by the Ganton . The currant Coyns are the Mass , Cupan , and Tail ; the Mass is 4 Cupans or 4 Shillings 10 pence Sterling or thereabouts , a Tail is 16 Masses , and Accounted worth 15 Ryals of eight , and is valued at 3 pound 14 Shillings 8 pence , or 3 pound 15 Shillings Sterling , &c. And now I might proceed to describe the other Islands in the Indian Ocean , but they being so many , that it would be too tedious , as likewise to little purpose , by Reason they yield nothing but what has been already lay'd down ; many of them uninhabited , and but few of them containing any European Factories , or Traded to ; therefore I shall pass them over ; they being Accounted , besides what I have named , no less then 126000. whose small spots bespangle or rather stud the vast Ocean . This East Country Trade is now carryed on by the English , Dutch , and Portugueze , to the Inriching of each Nation , and of late mightily improved , and would be raised to a greater advantage , did not one Nation strive to outvie the other , by giving the Natives their own Prizes , for Commodities of the growth of those Countries ; and by that means make them sensible of their value , of which if they had been at first kept in Ignorance , the Europeans might have made their one Markets in each Port where their Factories are setled , and for little or nothing brought the Wealth of India into London , Amsterdam , and Lisbon ; but passing this Emulation over that cannot be now redressed , I shall describe the pleasant Isle of Cyprus , so famed for it's stores and Commodious Situation , and then leave rich Asia , and return to take a view of Europe . No less abounding with all things necessary for the pleasure and profit of men . CHAP. LIII . A View of the Isle of Cyprus , the Trade , Growth , Weights , Measures , and Currant Coyns thereof . CYprus so Famous in History , feigned by Poets of old , to be the residence of the Goddess Venus , is Situate in the Syrian Sea , and is a Part of Asia , being in length 200 Miles and in breadth 65 , abounding in plenty of Cattle , Corn , Oyl , Wine , Sugar , Cottons , Honey , Wool , Turpentine , Allum , Verdigrease , Grograms , Salt , and abundance of other Commodities ; but especially in Cyprus Wood , and has for it's chief Cities Paphos , Famogusta , Nicotia , Lescara , Salines , &c. in which the English have a Factory for the Cotton Trade , the English Consul Resident in Aleppo , being imputed Consul of Syria and Cyprus , and hath under him a Vice-Consul , that manages the Trade of this Island for the English , who bring hither in exchange the Growth of our Country , and such other Commodities as are Vendible and most coveted by the Natives . Hither it is the Levant Merchants Trade for most part of their precious Commodities . As for the Coyns in use they are those of the Grand-Signior , and in the same their Accounts are kept , for a View of which I shall refer the Reader to the Description of the Trade of Constantinople . The Weight most in use is the Dram , of which 750 make a Rotolo , 100 of which make a Cantar greater by 4 in the 100 then the Cantar of Aleppo , and at Famogusta there is a Cantar in use that is greater then the common Cantar of Cyprus by 4 in the 100 ; and consequently larger then that of Aleppo 8 per cent . tho sometimes the Weights vary , yet not much . The Measures of length are two sorts , viz. the Pico and Brace , the former is Accounted 26 ½ Inches , and by this they Measure Woolen Cloath , Silk , and the like , the Brace for Linnen Cloath is 1 / ●6 longer then the Pico . Their Concave Measure for Wine is the Cuss , 7 of which make 6 Fletchers of Venetia , or a Candy Barrel ; so that a Cuss and half , and a Zant Jarre are equal in quantity ; the Oyl that is found here is sold by the Rotolo , each Rotolo being Accounted 1000 Drams . Corn of which there is store is sold by the Moose , 2 and a half of which weigh one Staio of Venetia ; by this Measure Salt is likewise sold . They have likewise a Measure for Grain called a Cossino : And thus much for Cyprus , and indeed for all Asia ; this being the last place I intend to visit in this part of the World , and from whence I intend to Sail for Europe ; only by the way I shall give the Reader an insight into the goodness , and as near as possible the true Value of Silver , Gold , and precious Stones ; which will not be amiss , seeing I so lately left the Coasts where those things which are so generally coveted are acquired . CHAP. LIV. A Description of Gold and Silver , their Intrinsick Value : The means to find out their Fineness and Allays , after the best and most exact Method . THe Weight used in England for Silver and Gold , is the Troy pound consisting of 12 Ounces , and each Ounce again divided into 150 Carots , and from thence into 480 Grains , each Ounce of Silver fine being according accounted worth 5 Shillings 2 pence of our money , and so more or less according to the addition or diminution of allay . The pound Troy of fine Gold is Accounted worth 36 pound , the Ounce 3 pound or if very fine something more , or again less as the Allay is , as thus : The Ounce of fine Gold is valued at 3 pound , 33 Kes fine at 2 pound 17 Shillings 6 pence , 22 Kes fine at 2 pound 15 Shillings , 21 Kes 2 pound 12 Shillings 6 pence ; the Ounce of 20 Kes fine is worth but 2 pound 10 Shillings , and so losing value 2 Shillings 6 pence per Ounce , as it wants a Carot in fineness in 24 , or the Troy pound . Now to know the goodness or fineness of Gold and Silver upon the Touch-Stone , by way of Essay , is to procure Needles of Gold and Silver , and Copper Allay sutable to any sort of Gold and Silver in Allay , and to be of 4 sorts , viz. the first of fine Gold and Silver , the second of Gold and Copper , the third of Gold Silver and Copper , and the fourth of Silver and Copper only ; the first for the tryal of Gold , and the latter for Silver , and of these Mixtures make 24 Needles differing in fineness from each , as thus ; The first must be all fine Gold without any Allay , viz. 24 Carots , the second 23 Carots of fine Gold and one of Silver , the third 22 Carots of Gold and 2 of Silver , and so one Carot worse till there remains but one Carot of fine Gold in Mixture , with 23 Carots of Silver . And by this Rule the Gold and Copper , and Silver and Copper must be Allayed ; and each Needle marked of what fineness it is . And by this means you may know the fineness of any Ingot or Piece of Gold or Silver ; as thus , touch the said Ingot or Piece of Gold or Silver upon your Touch-Stone , and by it the Needle you think is nearest it in fineness ; and if that suit not with it , try another till it suits with it , which when wet , will appear , and so by the mark of your Needle , you may be assured of the fineness of the Silver or Gold so touched , which is a better , easier , safer , and surer way then to try it by Fire . And thus much for Gold and Silver , as to their Tryal of fineness . CHAP. LV. A Treatise of Precious-Stones , how to know them and their true value , viz. Diamonds , Rubies , Saphyrs , &c. as also the goodness and worth of Pearles in General . THe Weight usual in India for Diamonds and Precious Stones , were brought thither by the Portugals , called the Mangear or Fanan , which differs not much from the Carot , whereof 150 Carots make an Ounce Troy ; and is divided into 64.33.16.8.4.2.1 . ½ ¼ ⅛ 1 / 16 Parts . The Mangelue or Mangear is near or altogether 5 Grains Weight , or 2 Tars ⅔ Accounted the ⅔ of 1 Carot , so that 4 Grains and 4 Tars weigh a Fanan , the Fanan being somewhat above 2 of our Carots , for 11 ¼ Fanans are 1 Mittigal . and 6 Mittiglas and ½ make the Ounce Troy ; this Fanan in many parts of India goes currant for a Coyn , being Equally valued with a Spanish Ryal ; and thus having laid down the proportion of the Weights , I shall first begin with the Dimonds , the chief of Precious Stones , then to know a good and true Diamond take this rule . A good and right Diamond is fast and no ways porous , so that it will resist the Fire , and after several hours continuance therein , come out bright as at first ; and in choice of such a one ▪ it must be neither Brown , Yellowish , Blewish , nor a Dullish-Black , but of a good Water-Christaline ; not wanting any corner when Polished on a Mill , nor be too thick nor too thinn , but so as it may be set firm , and to good advantage in a Ring , or Collet without being upholden by Velvet , and such a Diamond weighing 1 Carot is worth 35 pounds Sterling or upwards . Note when you have found out the true value of a perfect Diamond or Diamonds , this Rule is to be observed . Suppose a Diamond weighing a Carot Weight be worth 40 Ducats more or less , then the 4th . part being ten Ducats is the price of a Diamond weighing half a Carot , so the Diamond weighing a Carot is worth but the 4th . part of the value of one weighing 2 Carots , viz. 40 Ducats , and that weighing 2 Carots worth 160 Ducats ; and so if there be over Weight by Grains , you must divide all into Grains , and then a Diamond weighing 3 Grains is worth but the 4th . part of that weighing 6. And this is a General Rule , not only for Diamonds but all manner of precious Stones , according to Equality in goodness , as for Example a thick Table Diamond of the goodness aforesaid weighing 1 Grain is worth 1 pound 17 Shillings 6 pence , weighing 2 Grains is worth 7 pound 10 Shillings , weighing 3 Grains is worth 16 pound 17 Shillings 6 pence , weighing 1 Carot is worth 30 pound , and so proportionably to 8 Carots , yet there are some Diamonds imperfect , and not of any Extraordinary value , which are called Brut Diamonds , Naifs , Rocks , and flat-Stones , which are bought and sold at uncertain rates . The Ruby is found in Zeilam in India , and called commonly the Carbuncle , tryed in the Fire to know its perfection , the which if it abide and come out Burning like a Cole and of a high Colour , it is Accounted perfect ; a Stone of which perfection weighing but one Carot or ½ , a Fanan is valued at 30 Fanans in Callicut , and increase in value as the Dimonds according to their Weight ; there is another sort only called a Ruby , found in a River in the Kingdom of Pegu ; but it will not indure the Fire , but looseth it's Colour ▪ when put to the Tryal ; there are likewise several sorts of Rubies as the Carbuncle , Ballas , Spinal , Garnat , and Rubas ; but this Ruby of Pegu is accounted the next in value to the Carbuncle , and a Ruby square table-wise , perfect , and of high Colour of 16.18.20 . or 24. Carots in Colour , weighing a Fanan is worth sometimes in the India's , 100. Ducats , and in England weighing 11 ½ Carots , and of 20 Carots in Colour perfect and without Blemish , is worth 350 pound Sterling or rather more . Saphyrs are found in Zeilam , Calucut , Basinger , Canoner , and Pegu , and those are accounted best that are of a pure Azure or Sky-Colour , and in that hardness excelleth all other Stones the Diamond excepted , and according to their Colour are held in Estimation ; as for example , Saphyr weighing one Carot is worth 2 Fanans , one weighing 2 Carots is worth 5 Fanans , one weighing 3 worth 10 Fanans , and one weighing 4 Carots worth 15 Fanans , and so Proportionably each Fanan being Accounted 2 Carots ; after this manner Turquoise , Topaze , Berrils , Crysolites , Jacynths , Amathists , and other precious Stones are known and valued every one according to their goodness and Weight ; as for Pearls , how they are taken , I have before set down , and now I shall as far as is necessary make a report of their true value according as they are in goodness . The Rule to value Oriental Pearls , from a Grain in Weight to what bigness any will afford , is by the Colour , Roundness , Pear-Fashion , or Oval ; and that is in all parts perfect , as to Water and Gloss , without Knobs , Specks , Yellowness or other imperfections , and a Pearl of this perfection weighing a Carot is worth a Ducat in India . But before I proceed further , as to their value it will not be amiss to relate how they are sold , by those that have the disposing of them , viz. the Indians sell them by Sieves of Latten full of holes in number 12 , one bigger then the other as to their holes , and according to the largeness or smallness , the price is regulated ; for those of the 10 , 11 , and 12 Sieve are seldom capable to be holed , and therefore are called Seed-Pearls ; most fit for Apothecaries , to be used by them in their Physical Preparations ; but the others for the use of Ladies , and others to adorn themselves withal ; and for the price of all large Pearls , they are valued as is said by Weight and fairness , as Diamonds and other precious Stones , tho seldom before they be holed for fear of their breaking in the holing ; as thus , a Pearl of one Grain is worth 7 pence , of 2 Grains 2 Shillings 6 pence , of 3 Grains 5 Shillings 7 pence , of 1 Carot 10 Shillings , and so in proportion to those of greater Weight , as for Seed-Pearls , the smallest of which are Accounted 4500. to the Ounce , and the largest 400 or 450 to the Ounce , and commonly divided into 6 parts , the Prizes are these : The 6th . or smallest sort 4500 are commonly sold for 2 pound 4 Shillings the Ounce , the 5th . sort are sold for 1 pound 6 Shillings the Ounce , the 4th . sort at 10 Shillings the Ounce , the third sort at 18 Shillings the Ounce , the second at 1 pound 6 Shillings , and the first at 1 pound 15 Shillings . But note that the first is termed the sixth sort , and so Consequently the sixth the first ; the Rag Pearls which are sold likewise by the Ounce , according to their bigness are divided into thirds , seconds , and firsts , an Ounce of which containing 350 Pearls , is Accounted worth 1 pound 18 Shillings , an Ounce containing 250 Pearls is Accounted worth 3 pounds , an Ounce of 150 worth 4 pounds , and so according to their lesser quantity or number , in making the Ounce , all sorts of half round Pearls of pure Water , and Gloss are Accounted worth a round Pearl of half the Weight . And thus much for Gold , Silver , precious Stones , and Oriential Pearls ; with which I shall return to Europe , as the common Receptacle of those rich Commodities , which were of little value to the Indians , before the European Navigators set Prizes thereon , and by that means taught the Natives how to Esteem them ; for in the first Discovery of the Indies by the Portugals , they bought them for Beads of Glass , and such like Trifles , but now they are not purchased ; but at Extraordinary rates . CHAP. LVI . A View of Europe of it's Provinces , Trade , Manners , Customs , Growth , Weights , Measures , Currant Coyn , &c. THe first that offers it self on the Continent of Europe is Spain , invironed on all sides with the Seas , unless that part towards France ; which is bounded by the Pyraenaean Hills , and the Fortress of Pampelona on the North-West , and Perpegana on the South-East , and is divided into 12 Provinces , viz. Leon and Oviedo , which are one , Navar , Corduba , Galicia , Biscay , Toledo , Murtia , Castille , Portugal , ( now an intire Kingdom ) Valentia , Catalonia , and Aragon ; and in General abounds with Wines , Sugars , Oyls , Mettals , Liquorish , Rice , Cork , Silk , Wool , Oranges , Rosin , Steel , Almonds , Raisins , Lemons , Anchoves , Anniseeds , Figs , Soda , Barrilla , Honey , Wax , Shumack , Iron , Tuny-Fish , Saffron , Soape , and Carianders ; so that into the Trade of 3 or 4 of the Principal Cities and Ports , I shall reduce the whole Trade of the Kingdom and it's Provinces . Passing over Leon , Ovideo , and Navar , as Provinces little adddicted to Commerce , I shall proceed to Sevil , the chief City of Trade in the Province of Corduba , and into the Trade of that City reduce the Trade of that Province , which is Accounted the most Fertile Province of all Spain . CHAP. LVII . A View of Sevil , the Trade , Weights , Measures , Customs , and Currant Coyns thereof . THis City is Situate in the Province of Corduba , and accounted 6 Miles in compass , adorned with many stately Buildings , and is an Arch-Bishop's Sea , accounted next to Toledo the richest in Spain ; through it runs the River Baetis dividing it into 2 parts , over which is a Stately Bridg , which renders the City very Commodious for Trade , and from hence it is for the most part , that the Spanish Fleet sets out for the West Indies , and at their return unlaid their rich Commodities , as Silver , Tobacco , Ginger , Cottons , Sugar , Ferrinand , Bucque-Wood , and Wood of Brasil , Sarsafrax , Galbanum , and other Drugs of great value ; and for the King of Spains use , are in these parts brought up and kept 30000. Gennets ; nor are bare Customs of this City Accounted to amount to less then half a Million of Gold yearly . The Merchants generally keep their Accounts in Maruedies , of which 375 are Accounted to a Ducat of Exx 11 Ryals , every Ryal being 37 Maru , and some Strangers residing there keep their Accounts in Ryals of 34 Maru . The Coyns currant are the Ducats of Gold of Sevil , and are as aforesaid valued by the Spaniards worth 375 Maru , or 5 Shillings 6 pence Sterling , as likewise the Ryal of Castile which is worth here but 34 Maruides and valued at 6 pence Sterling , a Dobra currant is of Carlin Coyn 81 / 87 Maruedies . A Dobra of Castile is valued at 375 Mar. or a Ducat in Gold , the Castilian of Merchandise is worth 485 Mar. or 7 Shillings Sterling . Their Weights are the 3 Kintars , the first consists of 112 pound , and is divided into 4 Roves of 28 pound a Rove , the second is 120 pound , composed of 4 Roves of 30 pound each , and the third being the greatest , is composed of 4 Roves of 36 pound the Rove , and accordingly contains 144 pound , and is the common Kintar of Sevil , and 100 pound Weight of this place has often made 102 pound of London . Their Measure of Length is the Vare , 100 of which have been found to make 74 Ells of London . The Measure by which Oyl is sold is the Rove , 64 of which make a Venetian Miara and 40 or 41 of the said Roves make a Pipe , the Rove being 8 Somers , a Somer containing 4 Quartiles , a Quartile being the ● / 6 part of a Stoop of Antwerp , and 2 Pipes or 81 Roves are 25 or 26 Florence Barrils , or 252 English Gallons , tho in Sevil the Gage of Pipes are Accounted but 118 Gallons the Pipe. Corn is Measured by the Caffise , which is 28 Satos of Florence ; from Sevil it is that the fine Spanish Wool is brought , as also Cordavant-Leather ; in these parts , but especially at Almeria , great store of Raw Silks are gathered , it being the primest of all other , and is Accounted worth by the pound Morisco 18 Shillings Florence , or 1020 Maruedies , which amount to 30 Ryals . And thus much for Sevil and the Trade thereof . CHAP. LVIII . A View of Malaga , the Trade , Customs , Weights , Measures , and Coyns thereof . MAlaga is Situate in the Province of Granado , on the Shoar of the Mediterranean Sea , being Accommodated with a commodious Haven for the reception of Shipping , being very Fruitful in every part of it's Territories , abounding in Wine and Raisins known by it's Name , as likewise many delicate Fruits , Corn , Cattle , and what else can make a Country desirable ; they have likewise store of Sugar , Almonds , Oyls , &c. for which they pay Customs outward , tho they be Commodities of the natural Growth , viz. 7 per cent . Cochineel and such like Commodities pay outward 10 per cent . and all other Commodities of the Growth but 5 per cent . and those that are carryed from Port to Port 2 pound per cent . The Weights of Malaga is the 100. divided into 4 Roves of 25 pound each , and to every pound 16 Ounces , and the 100 pound of Malaga , called commonly the Kintar of Malaga , is found to make 112 pound 5 Ounces English , tho sometimes less according to the nature of the Commodity . Their Concave Measures are the Rove and Somer , the first making 8 of the last , so that 25 Roves go to a Pipe , which contains 100 English Gallons , by these only Wine and Oyl are Measured ; as for Grain it is Measured by the Hanock , which is divided into 12 Almodos , and is 12 Gallons English weighing upon the Strike 129 pound . The Measure of length is the Vare of 27 ⅞ Inches . The Coyns currant are Ryals , to one of which is computed 34 Marnedies or 6 pence Sterling , and Pistolets of Gold , each being worth 23 ½ Ryals , that is , the single Pistolet , the double Pistolet which are here likewise in use being worth 27 Ryals . CHAP. LIX . A View of Alicant , and of the Trade , Measures , Weights , Coyns , &c. ALicant is Situate on the Banks of the Mediterranian , in the Province of Murtia , and is by Reason of it's commodious Haven of late become a great Scale of Trade in those parts , affording delicate Wines and other Commodities in much request , being of late the Scale to the City Valentia , and affords of its Native growth Liquorish , Rasins , Wines , Soda-Barrilla , Sugar , Drugs , Bass-Mats , Ropes , Sope , Anniseed , and many other Merchantable Commodities ; which are Traded for by our English Merchants , and bought partly for money and partly for Commodities of the growth of our Nation . And at Alicant the Merchants keep their Accounts in Livers , Solds , and Deniers , 12 Deniers making a Sold , and 20 Solds a Liver , which is Accounted worth 5 Shillings Sterling , the Sold being Accounted 3 Pence , and the Denier a Farthing . The Weights in use are the Cargo and Rove , 10 of the latter making the former , and of these Roves there are two sorts , one computed 18 Ounces , and the other 12 to each pound , and by that means tho one be reckoned 36 pound , and the other but 24 , yet in Weight they are equal as to the number of Ounces ; and by these are sold Pepper , Rice , Almonds , Cloves , Cinnamond , and the like ; by the Cargo is weighed all Gross Commodities , it containing 280 pound English . There is sometimes used a Quintal of 96 pound Averdupois , and by it Drugs are weighed . The Measure of Length is the Vare , which wants a ⅙ part of the English Yard . The Liquid Measure for Wine is the Cantar , which is about 3 Gallons English , and the dry Measure for Corn is called the Chaffise , and is near 3 Bushel English . The Customs for the most part are rated at 11 Deniers per centum Livers , and is payable at 8 Deniers to the Duana and 3 Deniers to the Sisa , payed as well by the Buyer as Seller as often as Goods are bought , sold , or bartered ; for so that the Buyer and Seller pay between them 9 per cent . And thus leaving Alicant , I return to take a View of Madrid , Accounted the Principal City of Spain . CHAP. LX. A View of Madrid , of the Trade , Coyns , Weights , and Measures thereof . MAdrid is Situate in the Provinces of Castill , and of late become famous , for being the place where for the most part the Spanish Court resides ; and in it the Monies that are dispersed over Spain have their Original . This City abounds with all manner of Commodities , that either Spain , India , Barbary , Arabia , Persia , Egypt or other Countries affoard ; as Spices , Gold , Silks , Drugs , Stuffs , Jewels , Drugs , and the like . The Native Commodities of this Province are Honey , Allum , Wine , Oyl , Fruits , Salt , &c. The Measures and Weights are those common throughout Spain , but by Reason all the Coyns of the Kingdom Center here , I think it not amiss to set down their Names and true values . 1. The Ducat of Castil is worth 375 Maruedies . 2. The Castiliano 485 Maruedies . 3. The Florin of Castile is worth 265 Maruedies or near 4 Shillings Sterling . 4. The Ducat Count or Quento of Maruedies is a Million . 5. The Count or Quento of Maruedies is Ducats 2666 2 / 3● and at Dobra is accounted worth 2739 ●● / 73 Dobras , the which according to computation amounts to 733 pound 6 Shillings 8 pence Sterling . 6. The Ryal Single of Castile is worth 34 Maruedies or 6 pence Sterling . 7. The Quento of Mar is worth 3258 Ryals and 3 Maruedies . 8. The Crown of Castile is worth 323 Maruedies . 9. The Ducat of Spain is 5 Shillings 6 pence of our money , the Ryal is 6 pence and the Maruedie about the bigness of one of our Farthings . In this City when they give money upon Exchange , they commonly agree to be repayed in Ducats of Gold , or to the same value in Gold or Silver , for the most part by Weight to prevent the taking base money , with which Spain abounds , so that should they not take this course , they would often lose 4 or 5 per cent . In this Province are yearly 4 Fairs or great Marts , viz. at Medina Del Campo which lasts 50 days , at Medina de Riosecco which lasts 30 days , at Medina del Campo again which lasts 50 days , and lastly at Villa Lyon which lasts 20 days . These Fairs , viz. the 3 first are Fairs of Exchange : And when they make payments they make them in Banco not saying forth , and they are to remit in Ducats de Oro , in Oro Largo and forth of Banco , and when they agree forth of Banco , and for ready money there is got 1 per cent . and when they agree for Ducats of Gold or the worth of them , it is understood that the worth if the payment be not payed in Ducats , is to be payed in Maruedies at 375 to the Ducat . And thus much for Spain and the Trade thereof . And now I shall take a View of the Trade of the Kingdom of Portugal in her chief City , viz. Lisbon one of the 3 chief Scales of Europe . CHAP. LXI . A View of Lisbon , the Metropolis of Portugal , of the Trade , Growth , Weights , Measues , Coyns , and Customs thereof . LIsbon is the Metropolis of the Kingdom of Portugal , commodiously Seated upon the Banks of the River Tagus , the City and Suburbs being 10 Miles in compass , and not imagined to contain less then 38000. Families , Beautifyed with 67 Towers placed upon the Walls and 22 Gates ; all the Houses being Built Magnificent , and indeed the People given to great Industry , but especially to Navigation , as appears by the many Discoveries they have made ; they being the first that Discovered the Eastern Tract even to the Indias , and there by Trade and force got Footing , and shewed the way to England and Holland ; who have now brought it to perfection , even to the great Inriching either Nation , and of all the Commodities brought from India , and other parts of the World by the Portugals , this City is the Scale , for hither come yearly the Spices of Arabia , the Silks of Persia , the rich Commodities of China , and the Gold , Silver , precious Stones , and Spices of India ; and especially Pearls , the Fishery thereof remaining for the most part in the right of the King of Portugal , which being brought to Lisbon , and afterwards dispersed throughout Europe . To this City Flows the Trade of the whole Kingdom and also that of Spain ; from which Kingdom it is now separated as formerly . The Weights of this City , and consequently of the whole Kingdom are Principally the small and the great Cantars , the Latter of which is divided into 4 Roves , and each Rove contains 32 Reals which is 128 pounds , at 14 Ounces per pound , and of Florence Weight is computed 149 pound , their small Quintar for Pepper and Ginger is between 110 and 112 pound English , the Rove or Quartern being 27 ½ and sometimes 27 ● / 4 pound , but the great Quintal is 15 or 16 per cent . more than our 112 pound . The Quintar commonly called the King 's Quintar used in his Contractation House for weighing the Spices and Drugs of India is 114 pound English , and the great Cantar of Lisbon is mostly computed 130 pound English , &c. The Measures of length used in this City are the Coueda , which is the third part of an English Yard , and the Ware which wants but a Nale of an English Ell ; by the former they Measure Woollen Cloaths , &c. and by the latter Linnen , &c. The Concave Measures of Lisbon is the Alquire , 3 of which are found to make an English Bushel , and 5 a Spanish Hannep . They have an other Measure by which they meet their Salt called Muy , which is 60 Alquires , and 2 Muys and 15 Alquires are a Tunn Bristol Water Measure . The Custom inward is 23 per cent . that is , to the Dechima 10 , to the Sisa 10 , and to the Consolado 3 , and outward Merchants pay only 3. The Coyns are the Croisado of Gold , computed to be worth 400 Reas. The Ducat of Portugal which is ten Reals and accounted 5 Shillings Sterling or the Croisado . The Ryal which is 40 Reas and accounted 6 pence Sterling . The Golden Mirle which is worth 1000. Reas and accounted 2 5 / 2 Ducats , the Ducat is 2 ½ Ryals or 15 pence Sterling . The Vintin which is 20 Reas or 3 pence Sterling , the single Ryal of Spain which is 2 Vintines ; there are likewise the Coyns of Spain passable in this City , but seeing they are not the proper Coyns of Portugal , I shall pass them over as having already mentioned them in the Description of the Trade of that Kingdom . And now leaving Portugal , I shall pass into the Kingdom of France , and in viewing the Trade of some Cities thereof , give a Summary account of the whole Kingdoms Commerce , both Inland and by Navigation . CHAP. LXII . A View of France , the Provinces , Trade , Customs , Weights , Measures , and Currant Coyns , reduced into the view of the Principal Trading Cities of that Kingdom . FRance is a large and Fertile part of Europe , bounded on the North with the Brittish Ocean , on the West with the Aquitanian Sea , on the South with the Mediterranian , and on the East with the Pirenaean Hills and River Rhine ; and is divided into several Provinces , the Trade of which I shall instance in these following Cities , viz. Burdeaux , Rouen , Paris , Lyons , and Marselia , of these in order . Burdeaux is Situate on the Banks of Geronde , being the Principal City of the Province of Aquitain ; and is placed in a very Fruitful Soil , especially for Wines : The Principal Vineyards of France being accounted in its Neighbourhood ; of the Grapes therein growing , are made Whitewines and Claret in abundance ; and of late all Palled Wines and such as otherwise are foul & not Merchantable , they Lmibeck off into Brandies , which for the most part is vended in England , and Holland . They have likewise several Vineyards yielding Grapes that make Sweet-Wines , commonly called high Country Wines , the which lest it should hinder the Sail of the other , they prohibit to be sold in their City till Christmass day ; when the high Country Merchants bring it in , and sell it to Strangers there resident ; and such is the Custom of the place , that that Vessel or Lighter that first sets her Head on Shoar , is accounted free from Impost or Custom , yet must in lieu thereof for that day give Wine on Free-cost , to such as come on Board to Drink it . To this City it is that our English Merchants Trade , and from whence they yearly bring 20000 Tuns of Whitewine , Claret Sweet , and Brandy Wines in times when no prohibition is layed , this City formerly for many Years having been English ; there are found great quantities of Prunes of the Neighbouring growth , and some other Commodities , tho these are the chief , and to this place monies are remitted , for which mostly the Inhabitants Trade not as in other places ef Traffick , freely bartering Goods for Goods . Their Accounts are kept for the most part in Livers , Sold's , and Denies ; as indeed throughout the Kingdom . Their Weight is the pound , 100 of which are reckoned a Quintar , or 110 English , 90 ¾ pound being 100 pound English . Their Measure of length is an Auln accounted 42 English Inches , their Wines are computed by Hogs-Heads and Tearces , viz. Claret and White-wines , and their Brandy by Punchings of no certain Gauge . CHAP. LXIII . A View of Rouen , and the Trade thereof . ROuen is the Principal City of Normandy , being the Parliamentary Seat of that Province , and is Seated on the Banks of the River Sein ; all its Territories being Fertile , and it abounding with rich Merchandise , as well of other Nations as the Growth of the Kingdom of France , and is visited by most of the Merchants of all the Northern Kingdoms Trading in the Growth of France ; the place affording of natural Growth and Native Manufactury , fine and coarse Linnens , Buckrams , Paper , Cards , Wine , Stuffs , Combs , &c. for which the Inhabitants or such French Merchants as send their Commodities thither to be vended , receive of the English Kersies of Devonshire and Yorkshire , Bays of Coxal , Cottons of Wales , Pepper , Gauls , Yarn , Tinn , Lead , Fish , &c. but of late they have got a Custom to Trade for Sterling , many Commodities being allowed at no other Exchange . Their Accounts are kept in Solds , Livers , and Deniers . As for Weights here is principally found the Kings Beam called the Viconte , which exceeds our long hundred , viz. 112 pound 14 per cent . so that it makes English , 126 pound , tho sometimes less . Their Measure of length is the Auln , accounted 46 Inches or somewhat more , by which they Measure Woollen , and Linnen Cloath , and in this Measure they allow 24 for 20 called the Merchants Auln ; this City affords great store of Canvas for the Sails of Ships and such like uses , which is likewise Measured by the Auln , and has allowance as aforesaid , tho not unless great quantities are bought . In this City 3 Fairs are yearly held , at 2 whereof Liberty for 15 days is granted to buy and Transport all Commodities of the growth Custom-free , provided the Commodities be laden and fallen down the River , to a Place limited within 15 days after , or else to pay Custom as at other times , the first of which begins the 3d. day of February and ends the 18th , the second begins on Whit-Monday and lasteth 15 days , the third begins on the 23 day of October and continues 8 days only , and is not Custom-free as the former . As for the Concave Measures they are few , and such as are common throughout France , and of which I shall hereafter speak . Therefore in this Chapter I willingly Omit them . CHAP. LXIV . A View of Paris , the Metropolis of France , and of the Trade , Weights , Measures , Coyns , Customs , exchanges , and Commodities there Vended . PAris is the Principal city of France , and is accounted 10 Miles in Circumference , being Situate on either side the River Sein ; that River Gliding smoothly through it , thereby rendering it more Commodious for Traffick ; tho through the Sloath of the Inhabitants it is not improved to the advantage it might be , yet here are found Commodities of the growth of the whole Kingdom , as likewise of most Nations tho in no abundance . The Commodities exported hence are Linnens , Paper , Cards , Combs , Stuffs , Thread , Plushes , &c. for which they receive English Cloath , Stockings , Lead , Tinn , Bays , old Shooes , Silks of Italy , and some Indian Commodities . The Inhabitants are for the most part Gentry , and therefore not addicted to Manufacture . The Weights of Paris are the Quintal , which is accounted 100 pound Gross , but found to make 100 pound of London Suttle 2 per cent . more or less , and is of Lyons Weight of 16 Ounces 116 pound , and Venetian Sottle 144 pound , 100 Sottle in Venice making Sottle of Paris Weight but 62 ● / 2 pound of 15 Ounces to the pound , the Cargo or great Quintal of Paris is 300 pound of Troy Weight , yet makes in Florence 487 pound . The Concave Measures for Wine is the Cistern , which contains 8 Pints or a French Gallon , 96 of which are accounted a Tun. The Measures of length are two , one for Linnen , and the other for Silks , and are much about the length of the vantaged and unvantaged Aulns , but seldom used in Gross , by Reason in this City Silks , Stuffs , &c. are sold by Weight , which to the buyer is advantageous by Reason he cannot be imposed on with slight Silks , and Stuffs , but that what it wants in goodness will be made out in Measure . This City is the chief Standard of Coyn for the whole Kingdom ; therefore in this I shall give a particular account of most French Coyns currant ; first the Denire , 2 of which make a Double , and twelve a Sold , and 20 Solds a Liver , by some called a Frank , and in these three , viz. Solds , Deniers , and Livers , the accounts of that Kingdom are for the most part kept . There are Peices of 8 Solds , each Piece being the 1 / ● part of a Silver French Crown , 64 Sold's being accounted a French Crown , and 4 Sold's which is of 3 Livors Turnois Pieces of 21 Solds , 4 Deniers being the 1 / 8 part of the said Crown commonly called Testons , and the ½ and ¼ thereof , and as the Quarter Crowns were at first raised from 15 Solds to 16 , and thereby the 60 Solds to 64 ; so in the like proportion , were the Testons raised ; the Golden Coyns are the Crown of 3 Livers or 60 Solds , the Crown of the Sun being 3 Livers 16 Sold or 76 Solds , and the Pistol , each Liver being accounted 12 pence Sterling ; there are likewise Crowns of 6 Shillings Sterling , but these monies , as indeed most Forrain Coyns , do rise and fall according to the Plenty and Scarcity of Silver and Gold , or more properly at the pleasure of the Prince whose proper Coyns they are . As for the Exchanges I shall refer them till I come to Treat in General of the nature of Exchanges . CHAP. LXV . A View of Lyons , and the Trade thereof , &c. LYons was once the famousest Mart of France , and a great Scale of Trade , but by Reason of its Incommodious Situation , in wanting a Port or Navigable River for great Ships , it has given place to the Haven Towns , yet continues some Trade , especially Inland , being Seated on a Fruitful Soil , Fertilized by the Branches of the Rivers Rhoan and Soame , the chief Manufactory of Silks in the Kingdom of France being setled in it , which when wrought is sent through Europe , the Inhabitants having Commerce with Marselia , the chief Port for the residence of Shipping . Here Exchanges are practised , the Bankers or Merchants of Venetia , Florence and Naples , having Factors resident in Lyons for that purpose , and hither it is that the English Merchants bring Lead , Tinn , Bays , Cony-Skins , &c. to Exchange for the growth of the Province ; the Accounts are kept as in other parts of the Kingdom . The Coyns currant being the same with those of Paris . The Fairs are 4 , in which all payments either by Exchange or Merchandise are made , and all payments run from 3 Months to 3 Months , if agreed to in a Publick place or Burse appointed for that purpose ; the first of these Fairs begins immediately after the Octaves of Easter , the second , the first Monday after the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin , the third the day after All Souls , the fourth the day after Epiphany , each continuing 15 days ; all Exchange business is done , and all Bills of Exchange are made and dated in one day , and within 2 days following , they settle the rate of Exchange , and by these Fairs they limit their payments , and the time allowed in their Bills from hence to Venice , Florence , and Rome , is commonly 30 days , to Naples and Valentia 25 days ; and so consequently according to the distance of the place it is payable at , tho agreement be made for longer time it is often granted . The Weights most in use is the Kings Beam of the Custom-House , and the 2 Town Beams , the King's Beam is found to be 100 pound the Quintal , and is greater then the largest of the Town Beams by 8 per cent . and by the Weight thereof all Customs are Proportioned . This large Town Beam for Gross Goods is accounted likewise 100 pound of 16 Ounces to the pound , the third Weight is known by the name of the pound of Mark , and is only used in weighing of Silks containing 100 pound of 15 Ounces , being the least of the three . The Measure of Lyons is the Auln which is 46 English Inches , 7 of them being found to make 9 English Yards , and 100 pound of London Suttle is found to make in Lyons 96 2 / 2 pound Silk Weight , and one Liver or pound Sterling of London is 10 Livers Turnois . And thus much shall Suffice for Lyons and the Trade thereof . CHAP. LXVI . A View of Marselia , the Trade , Weights , Measures , Coyns , and Customs thereof . MArselia is a fair Port , and the principal Place of Trade in Provence , whither resort many Merchants ; and from which Port the Ships Sail that maintain the Trade with Turky , Barbary , Spain , Italy , Flanders , and England , tho indeed not much , the French Nation not affecting Navigation , but rather choose to improve the growth of their own Country , for which they have brought home to 'em , the Commodities and growth of all Nations . The Exchange that is wanting here , is supplyed by the currant and intercourse of Lyons , it being Governed thereby in matters of Trade . And hither the English bring Bays , Cloath , Lead , Tinn , Herrings , Pilchards , Newland-Fish , Affrican Hides , Wax , Calves-Skins , Salmond , &c. and in Exchange receive Oyls , Wines , Verdigreese , Paper , Linnen , and other Manufactures , & at this Port they have free Licence to Transport Spanish Ryals of 8 / 8 which are found in abundance , and by that means preserve their Trade with Turky , and other Places of Traffick in the Mediterranean , from whence they bring Silks , and some spices ; but of late have not been so venturous as formerly , for fear of the Pirates , by whom they have sustained within a few Years dammages to the value of 3 Millions of Crowns , which has much impaired their Traffick in those parts . The Accounts here are kept in Deniers , Solds , and Livers , and in Ryals of 8 , which sometimes are Inhaunced to a ¼ part more then their true value . The Weight is Originally the pound of 16 Ounces , 100 of which make the Quintal , and 3 Quintals the Cargo , the Quintal is found to make English 88 ½ . The Measure of Length is the Cane , which they divide into 8 Palms , which are found to be 2 ⅛ English Yards . The concave Measure is the Mine , of which the Sack of Leghorne makes 1 ● / 3. The Customs outwards are 1 ¼ per cent . and inwards 3 ¼ per cent . this is meant of Commodities of the growth of the Country , but if Pepper , Ginger , Indico , and such like Commodities be imported ; they pay the Kings Customs , which are 15 per cent . And thus I shall conclude the Trade of France , and proceed to take a View of Italy and the Trade thereof . CHAP. LXVII . A View of Italy , and the Trading Cities thereof , together with their Manner of Traffick , Weights , Measures , Coyns , &c. ITaly is bounded with the Alps , the Ionian , Tyrrhenean , and Adriatick Seas , and is exceeding Fertile lying in a Temperate Clime , and is divided into 10 Provinces , viz. the Kingdom of Naples , the Dukedom of Florence , the Dukedom of Millain , the Dukedom of Mantua , the Common-Wealth of Venice , the Dukedom of Vrbin , the Principality of Parma , the estate of Genoa , the estate of Luca , and the Papacy . Of the chief City or Town of Trade of each in order . CHAP. LXVIII . A View of the City Naples , and the Trade thereof , together with the Weights , Measures , Coyns , Customs , &c. IN Describing the Trade of this City from whence the Kingdom takes its Name , I shall lay down what is found of value or Merchantable throughout the Province . The City of Naples is a fair City and accounted 7 Miles in compass , formerly called Parthenope , and is now Governed by a Vice-Roy to the Behoof of the King of Spain , and yieldeth divers Mettals brought from adjacent Mines ; likewise Saffron , Raw and wrought Silk , Oyls , Anniseed , Brimstone , Argals , Corn , Cattle in abundance and other things of value ; for which they receive out of England Bays , Says , Serges , Cloath , Lead , Tinn , Herrings , Pilchards , and Newland-Fish . There is found likewise the growth of Spain , Portugal , and many East-Indian Commodities , and it was formerly a City of great Traffick . The Country generally abounds in Mulberry-Trees , and other pleasant Fruit-Trees . The Weights of this City , and consequently of the whole Kingdom , are the Rotolo and Cantar , 100 of the former making the latter , which is accounted 196 pound English Averdupois Weight , as likewise in Goeta they have a Cantar , by which all Gross Commodities are weighed which is reckoned 254 pound of Leghorn . The Measure of Length is the Cane divided into 8 Palms , nine of which Palms make the Auln of Lyons , and the Cane is 18 ½ English inches . The Concave Measures of Naples are the Salmo and Staio , by which they Measure Oyl , Wine , Corn , &c. The Customs are for some Commodities 2 ½ , for other 4 ½ per cent . more or less , as the Vice-Roy gives order to these that are appointed to receive them , the King of Spain receiving yearly for Customs upon the Oyls of Gallipoly , adjacent to this Kingdom one hundred thousand Ducats . CHAP. LXIX . A View of the City of Florence , the Trade thereof , Comprehending the whole Trade of the Florentine Dominion . THe City of Florence gives name to the Provence or Dukedom of Florence , and is a very fair City , Seated near the Rivers Arne and Chian , Beautifyed it is with many stately Edifices , and much addicted to Merchandizing ; the Duke being accounted the richest and chiefest Merchant in Italy , and is now more commonly known by the Title of great Duke of Tuscany . The Commodities are very rich , the famous Port of Leghorn being Governed in Trade by this City and Pisa . For hence for the most part come the Merchandise that are there found , as Marble , Rice , Wines , Oyls , Silks Raw , and wrought , Sattins , Taffatas , Velvets , Grograms , Plushes , Stuffs of curious Texture , for which they receive of our Merchants , Pepper , Mace , Cloves , Indicoes , Callico , Lead , Tinn , Cloath , Bays , Says , Serges , Perpetuanos , &c , the Inhabitants for the most part being very rich by Reason of the great Banks maintained in this City , where is practised exchange from all parts . Their accounts are kept in Livers , Solds , Deniers , 12 Deniers making a Sold , and 20 Solds accounted a Liver , and some in Crowns , 7 ½ Livers making a Crown ; they have currant in Trade , the Florence Ducat worth 7 Livers , each Liver accounted 9 pence Sterling . The Weight is the Quintal or 100 pound of 12 Ounces the pound , and is found to make 98 pound English . The Measure of Length is the Brace , 100 of which has been known to make 49 Ells English , and the Cane which is 4 Braces , but all wrought Silks are here sold by the pound . Wine is sold by the Cogno , which is 10 Barrels , 40 Metadels , 20 Flasks , and each Barrel to weigh 120 pound . Oyl is sold by the Orcio , which is a Barrel , and accounted 85 pound Weight , Grain is sold by the Moggio , which is 24 Staios , each Staio accounted 5 pound , Salt is sold by a Staio of 72 pound . And thus much shall Suffice for Florence . CHAP. LXX . A View of Millain , of the Trade , Weights , Measures , Coyns , Customs , and Commodities thereof . THe City of Millan being the Center of the whole Dukedom , in all respects , I shall only insist upon it . Then this City is the fairest of Lomberdy , being seven Miles in compass , and Furnished with all Commodities of the growth of the Dukedom , nay of all Italy , being now in Subjection to the Spanish King ; the chief Commodities are Oyl , Wine , Rice , Corn , Raw Silk , which is wrought by the Inhabitants into curious Fabricks , Chambets , Fustians , Gold Thread , and Iron ; which are dispersed over all Italy , Savoy , France , Flanders , Holland , England , &c. Their Accounts are kept in Deniers , Solds , and Livers , which are in effect Pence , Shillings , Pounds , &c. and their other currant Coyns are the Ducat of Gold , which is worth about 100 Solds of that money , the Crown of Gold of the Sun , which is worth 97 Solds . The Italian Gold Crown which is worth 5 Livers . The Ducat of Gold of 5 Livers , and 18 Solds is worth 6 Livers Imperial , the Ducat Imperial is esteemed worth 4 Livers . The Ducat of Millain or Imperial of 4 Livers is accounted in exchange 101 Solds the Ducat , and sometimes in Merchandise 110 , and in way of Trade the Coyns of Spain , and France , are here Currant . The Weight used here is the pound , 100 of which make a Quintal , which is accounted 70 pound English . The Measures of Length are the Braces , one for Cloath , and the other for Silk , the 100 Braces of the last containing 43 Ells of London . The Customs for the most part the same with the other Cities of Italy . CHAP. LXXI . A View of the Dukedoms of Mantua , and Urbin , and of their Trade , Weights , Measures , &c. OF the Dukedom of Mantua , the City of that Name is the chief , and is a fair and strong Place , on 3 sides invironed with a wide Lake , through which runneth a Stream or River into the famous River Poe , and is surrounded with pleasant Pastures and Fruitful Gardens , Orchards , and Vineyards ; but the Trade as to Merchandise , is inconsiderable for want of a Harbour or Haven , for the reception of Shipping ; only here are found several Fabricks of Silk , as Taffatas , Sattins , &c. also Watered Chamblets ; the Accounts are kept as in Millain , and their money much the same unless the Ducatoon which is 115 Solds of Millain . The Weights of Mantua are the Peso , which is 25 pound , and the Quintal which is 100 pound , making English 71 pound Averdupois . The City of Vrbin from which the Dukedom takes its Name , is Seated under the Appennine Hills , and has 2 famous Sea-Ports , viz. Pisauro , and Fano , where formerly our Merchants held considerable Commerce , but of late it is decayed , yet some Trade is still held there , especially by such as go Trading Voyages ; who there find the growth of most Parts of Italy , for which they exchange Cloath , Tinn , Spices , and some Drugs . Their Accounts are kept in Deniers , Solds , and Livers , and the rest of the Coyns those for the most part currant throughout Italy . The Weights are the pound , and the Quintal , 100 of the former making the latter , and is found to be 77 pound of London Averdupois . The Measures of length are the Braces , one for Cloath , and the other for Silk , 94 of the former making 100 of Venice , but the Venice Brace for Silk renders the Vrbin Brace for Silk 102 or 103 , &c. CHAP. LXXII . A View of the Common-Wealth of Venice , and of the Trade , Weights , Measures , Customs , Coyns &c. THe City of Venice gives Name to the Territories , and has been and yet is famous for Trade by Navigation , being so Commodiously Seated for the reception of Shipping , that nothing can be more ; as thus , it is Seated at the bottom of the Adriatick Sea or Venetian Gulph , upon 72 Islands 5 Miles distant from the main Land , and is defended against the rage of the Sea by a Bank of 20 Leagues , through which are cut several passages for Boats , but no Ships are capable of passing but at Malamecco , the mouth of which is guarded with strong Castles ; and at the Castles of Lio , the Sea runs through most of the Streets , so that the commerce is held by Boats and Bridges , 12000 of the first , and 4000 of the last ; and as for the Inhabitants they are naturally addicted to Merchandise , and once made their City the Store-House of the Commodities of India , Persia , Arabia , Egypt , and Greece , being both Politick and Powerful at Sea , so that for those Commodities , most European Merchants Traded thither as the Principal Mart of the World , but of late the English , Dutch , and Portugals have found the way to purchase them at the first hand , and by that means much impaired the Traffick of that Common-Wealth , yet still they have Factories at Aleppo , Constantinople , and Alexandria , and Trade in Silk , Spices , Drugs , &c. but the chief Commodities found here are Cloaths of Gold and Silver , Wine , Oyl , Woollen Cloath , Paper , Anniseeds , Agal , Looking-Glasses , Drinking-Glasses , and Quick-Silver , for which the English Merchants Trading thither , exchange Bays , Furs , Perpetuanos , Lead , Tinn , Cloves , Nutmegs , Pepper , Ginger , Serges , Says , Woollen Cloath , Herring , Pilchards , Salmond , and Newland Fish , Indico , &c. and serves for a Mart to Austria and upper Germany . The Weights of Venetia are 4 , the first and greatest is called the pound Gross , and 100 pound with which they weigh Wool , Brass , Iron , Copper , Flesh , Fish , and other Gross Commodities . The second is the Golden Weight in use for weighing Gold , Silver , Precious Stones and Pearls only , and is called the Mark consisting of 8 Ounces , and each Ounce of 144 Cariots ; the third is applyed to the Weight only of Gold and Silver Thread ; the fourth is the pound Suttle , with which are weighed Silks , Drugs , Spices , Cottons , Cotton-Yarn , viz. by the 100 Weight composed of the Suttle pound , 100 pound Gross being of this Suttle pound 158 pound , and so on Proportionablely ; but in Gold and Silver Thread 100 pound Gross is Suttle , but 116 pound 8 Ounces , the Mark of Gold 8 Ounces , and from these our English Traders have derived their Weight commonly called Venice Weight , 100 pounds of Venice Suttle make of London Weight 64 pound , and Gross 106 pound . The Liquid Measures for Wine are the Amphora , the Bigonsa , the Quart , the Sachio and Lyre , viz. the Bigonsa 4 of them make the Amphora , and each Bigonsa is 4 Quarts , and 1 Quart is 4 Sachi , each Sachi being 4 Lyras , and each Lyra a pound Weight , tho in Gross the lesser Measures hold not out ; as for Oyl it is sold both by Weight and Measure , the Weight is called the Staliero , and the Measure the Miaro , and is 40 Mire which is Gross Weight , 120 pound , one Mire by Weight is 30 pound 3 Ounces , and by Measure 25 pound . Corn is sold by the Staio , each Staio being Gross 132 pound of Venetian Weight . The Accounts are kept several ways according to the Pleasure of the Merchant , as sometimes in Ducats , and Grosses , accounting 6 Livers , and 4 Solds to a Ducat or 24 Grosses , others again in Solds and Grosses . As for their Exchanges , to their great advantage in way of Trade , they make a difference between their money payed for Merchandise , and that returnable upon Bills , the disproportion being between 20 and 21 per cent . their Customs are Extraordinary , especially upon the English Trading to Zant for Currans , which is in Subjection to that Seignory , both upon Goods imported and exported , the which has caused the decay of Trade , and was the main Reason of removing the Scale of Trade to Leghorn , a place no ways so Commodious nor abounding in Commodities of the Native growth . CHAP. LXXIII . A View of the Principality of Parma , and of the Trade , Weights , Measures , Customs , &c. PArma the chief City of this Principality gives it a Name , and is a pleasant City abounding with all the Commodities of Italy , as Silks , Stuffs , Oyl , Wine , Copper , Rice , Corn , &c. and as for the Weight used in the City , it is the pound of 12 Ounces , 100 of which make about 60 Suttle English . The Measure of length is the Brace , concording with the Brace of Florence . The Coyns are Deniers , Livers , and Solds , in which their Accounts are kept . But having thus far proceeded , I shall here take a View of the famous Port of Leghorn , and of the Trade thereof . CHAP. LXXIV . A View of Leghorn , the Trade , Custom , Weights , Measures , and Coyns , &c. LEghorn the Principal Port , and Scale of Trade in the Mediterranean Sea , is Situated on a large Plain , and accomodated with a good Harbour for the reception of Shipping , so that almost the whole Scale of Trade is removed from the City of Venice thither ; it is now a part of the Florentine Dominion , having some time past been purchased by the Duke of Tuscany for 120000 Ducats of the Genoese , and from him received large Priviledges and Immunities , being inlarged by a new City Builded to the old , and by Reason of the small Customs taken there ; it is of a Nest of Pirates , Murtherers , &c. who formerly Inhabited it , become famous throughout the World ; in this Port the great Duke keeps his Gallies , and here are found all the sorts of Commodities Italy yields , the Trade of it being as aforesaid regulated by Florence and Pisa , and to this Port are brought the Commodities of England , Spain , France , Holland , India , Arabia , Persia , Egypt , and other Countries . The Accounts of Merchants in Leghorn , are kept in Livers , Solds , Deniers , 12 Deniers being a Sold , and 20 Solds a Liver , and their other monies are the same with Florence , except Quadrins and Craches , 8 Craches being accounted worth 6 pence Sterling , and of Quadrins 60 to a Liver , tho sometimes a different value is fixed upon the Mony of either place , but it continues not long . The Weights are the same with Florence , viz. the pound of 12 Ounce , 100 of which make a Quintal , which is computed to make 75 pound English , and by this they weigh their Gross Commodities . An other Quintal they have of 150 pound , which makes of London Weight 113 pound , as also an other of 160 pound making with us 121 pound , by which they weigh Fish , woolls , &c. The Kintar of Allum is at Leghorn 150 pound , but in England found to make but 143 ⅞ pound , the Kintar of Sugar 15● , the Kintar of Fish 160 pound , and make English Weight proportionably . The Measures are the Brace and Cane , 4 of the former making one of the latter , each Brace being 23 Inches English , 100 Braces making 60 Yards or 48 Ells. The Concave Measures for Corn and Salt , are the Stare , the Sack , and the Salmo , 3 of the first making one of the second , and 3 ⅔ of the second making one of the third , which is a London Quarter ; they have a Measure likewise called a Maggio , which contains 8 Sacks . The Custom of this Port is , that any Merchant may Land his Goods without paying any Custom , so be they are sold within a Year ; but if not , he must pay Custom ; but if for the better disposal of Commodities , they are sent into any other part of Tuscany , they must pay Custom at Pisa . CHAP. LXXV . A View of Genoa , the Weights , Measures , Coyns , and Trade thereof . THe Metropolis of the Republique of Genoa , is the City of Genoa from whence the Territories have Name , and is 8 Miles in compass , being Commodiously Situate for Commerce , and has been formerly a City of great Trade ; but of late the Citizens are turned Userers , which has put a stop to their Navigation , and the Excessive Customs upon Goods imported , deters Merchants from Trading thither to any purpose . The Merchantable Wares that are found in this City are Silks , Stuffs , Damasks , Drugs , Wine , Oyl , and some Fruits , for which they receive the growth of the Countries , whose Merchants Trade thither . Their Accounts especially as to Merchandise are kept in Deniers , Solds , and Livers , 12 Deniers being a Sold , and 20 Solds a Liver , which is 16 pence Sterling . Their other Coyns for the most part Concord with those of Florence . The Weights are the pound of 12 Ounces , and Quintal , 100 of the former making the latter , which is accounted the Quintal Suttle , the Gross Quintal being 150 pound , and makes Suttle Weight of London 105 pound , and by the Gross Quintal are sold Anniseeds , Honey , Rice , Brass , Lead , Tinn , Sope , Wools , and other Weighty Commodities . The Measure of Length is the Cane , found to make 9 Palms or 4 Braces of Florence , which is used in the Measuring Stuffs and Silkes , and for Measuring of Linnen , the Cane is 10 Palms , 100 of which Palms have rendered 27 English Yards , and consequently one Cane of Genoa is 2 ⅞ Yards English . Corn is sold by the Mine , each Mine paying Custom 6 ½ Solds , and Weighs 270 pound , 2 ½ of which are found to be a Harwich Quarter . Oyl is sold by the Barril , 7 ½ of which make a Neapolitan Butt . Wine is sold by the Mesorole , 5 of which make a Botta Dimena of Naples . All Goods entering the River or Port pay Consolato of the River 6 Denier per Liver , which is payed by the Buyer , if a contract be not before made with the seller for the discharge thereof . And thus much for the Republique of Naples . CHAP. LXXVI . A View of Luca , and the Trade thereof . LVca is the principal City of the Republique , and is Situate on the River Serchio , being 3 Miles in compass , and so adorned with Trees ; that such as pass a far off think it to stand in a Wood. The most Merchantable Commodities here found are Silks , as Damasks , Sattins , Taffatas , &c. which are here made and sent to other Cities of Italy , and for them have returned the growth of most Countries . Their Accounts are kept in Solds , Deniers , and Livers of Picoly as in Florence , and their monies for the most part the same , it having formerly been a City of considerable Trade , but now of little note . The Weights are two , the one the Ballance Weight , by which all Goods are bought and sold , the other the Weight by which Merchants pay their Customs , between which there is observed 12 per cent . difference , the Ballance Weight , the pound containing 12 Ounces , the 100 thereof has been found to make of Lyons Weight 72 ½ and the Customers Weight 81 ½ the Measure of length is the Brace , which is 23 English Inches , 100 Braces of this Place being found to make 50 English Ells. As for Liquid or Concave Measures , they use not any in way of Merchandise . Therefore I shall pass them over . CHAP. LXXVII . A View of the Papacy , and the Trade thereof . THe Papacy containeth several stately Cities , but none of any considerable Trade as for Merchandise therefore I shall Summ up all in Describing , the Trade of Rome , once the Mistriss of the World , but now her Splendor is much abated . Rome is Situate on the Banks of Tiber , adorned with 750 Towers placed on her Walls , and is accounted to contain 466000 Families , and in it are found these Merchandise , viz. Corn , Oyl , Wine , Gloves , Allum , Lutestring , Kid-Skins , and curious Fabricks of Silk , for which they receive from England Lead , Tinn , Bays , Says , Stuffs , Pilchards , Herrings , Newland Fish , Calves-Skins , Salt , Salmon , Tallow , Wax , &c. which are for the most part Landed at Civitaveccia , and from thence carryed up the River Tiber in Boats to Rome . The Coyns here and through the Papacy , are the same that are currant in most parts of Italy , the Pope having so ordained , that his Incomes may be the more . The Accounts are kept in Crowns , Julios , or Paulos , Baiochos , and Quatrins , the Weight is the Quintal or 100 pound which makes 80 pound English , tho sometimes they weigh by a Quintal of 160 pound , and 150 pound , according to the fineness or Grosness of the Commodity . Their Measures of Length are 2 , one for Linnen and the other for Woollen , the one a Brace , and the other the Cane , 30 Canes making 100 Braces . Corn is sold by the Rugio , which is 7 / 18 Mine of Genoa . And thus much shall suffice for Rome , and indeed for all Italy , from whence I must pass into Flanders and take a View of the Trade thereof . CHAP. LXXVIII . A View of the Trade of Flanders , and Holland , of the Weights , Measures , Coyns , Customs , Commodities , and Traffick of them , reduced into the View of Antwerp and Amsterdam . THo Flanders and the Netherlands are divided into 17 Provinces , viz. 4 Dukedoms , as Limburg , Luxemburg , Gelderland , and Brabant , 1 Marquisat , 7 Ealrdoms , as Artois , Flanders , Hanault , Nemurs , Zutphen , Holland , and Zealand , 5 Borronies , as Westfriezland , Vtretch , Overysel , Machlin , and Groving ; yet the Trade of all these may conveniently be reduced into what is found in Antwerp and Amsterdam , the one famous for having formerly been the chief Scale of Europe , and the other for the present commerce held there . Of these in order . Antwerp is Situate upon the River Scheld , that River sending forth eight Channels to Water the City by running through her Streets , and has been formerly accounted a great Scale of Trade , insomuch that all European Merchants brought their Commodities thither to vend , the acquirement of which Trade was principally by the means following , first by Reason of 2 free Marts , yearly holden for 45 days , in which no Person Trading there could be Arrested in his Goods or Person for Debt or otherwise , secondly by Reason the Portugals discovering the East Indias Anno 1500. diverted the course of Trade driven by the Venetians from Alexandria , and the Red-Sea to Lisbon ; and so kept a Factory at Antwerp , and exposed to Sail all Indian Commodities which drew most of the Trading Nations of Europe to Trade thither , exhausting the Trade of Bruges where the English Merchants Adventurers before resided ; the third and last cause was the Wars between Charles the fifth Emperor , and the French , which obliged the Nobility , and Gentry for safety to remove their Families thither , who afterwards being taken with the pleasantness of the place would not remove , but Built them stately Houses , and made that City for the most part the Place of their residence . The cause of the decay of Trade in the City of Antwerp , was the Wars with Spain , in which Merchants were Pillaged , their Ships taken , &c. the Abridgement of Priviledges , and the Trade which the English and Dutch found in the East-Indies , bringing home in their own Bottoms , what before they were obliged to the Portugals for ; but as it is at this Day , a pretty Trade is driven in the City , most of the Neighbouring Countries bringing in their Growth and Manufacture . The Commodities found in Antwerp , are Wines , Silks , Arras-Hangings , Spices , Drugs , Fruit , store of Corn , Woollen Cloath , some Oyl , and the like ; brought out of its Neighbourhood , and the Adjacent Provinces . The Accounts of Antwerp are kept in Livers , Solds , and Deniers , which they reckon Pounds , Shillings , Pence , 12 Deniers making a Sold , and 20 Solds a Liver or pound Flemish , tho worth no more then 12 Shillings Sterling , or as they compute it 240 Grosses , 12 Grosses being a Sold , and according to these Values on Coyn they make their Exchanges . The other currant Coyns are Doits , 4 of which make a Stiver , and 10 Stivers make 1 Shilling Sterling . 2 Blanks make a Stiver , and half 6 Stivers make the Flemish Shilling , 28 Stivers make a Guilder , which is 3 Shillings 4 pence Flemish , so that 100 pound Flemish is found to make but 50 pound English , &c. The Weight is the pound of 16 Ounces , 100 of which pounds make their Quintar , and the Quintar found to be 104 pound English . So that from this allowance or over Weight , many imagine that the Tret of London had its Original . The Measure of length is the Ell , 100 of which are found to make 60 London Ells in the Measure of Linnen Cloath . They have likewise an Ell for Measuring of Silk , which is 1 ½ in the 100 less then the Cloath Ell. Beer is sold by the Barrel , which in Brabant and Flanders , is accounted 54 Stops , each Stop being 2 Quarts English . Their Corn they sell by the Vertules 23 ½ of which are a Last of Amsterdam , and 10 ¼ Quarters London Measure . Wine is sold by the Ame , the Stop and the Butt , 1 Ame making 50 Stops , and one Stop 6 pound , so that the Butt is 300 Stops or 6 Ames , the Wine Stop being accounted 3 ⅓ Quarts of London Wine Measure . The Exchanges are very great , by Reason most of the Bills of Spain are drawn upon the Merchants and Traders of Antwerp , for the disbursement of money , for the maintainance of the Army , that is for the most part kept on Foot in the Provinces . CHAP. LXXIX . A View of the City of Amsterdam and of the Trade , Coyns , Weights and Measures thereof . AMsterdam is a fair City , and Seated on the River Tay , which on the North side of it Flows like a large Sea , when on the South the River Amster running through 3 Lakes ▪ enters its Streets and falleth into the River Tay aforesaid . And by the addition or a new City to the old , it is become Commodious and strong ; and by the advantage of the River passing through all Land-carriage is saved , the Boats in the 5 Principal Streets coming up to the Doors , especially where the Merchants Ware-Houses are . The Inhabitants are generally Prompt to Navigation , and have so improved themselves thereby , that most of the Citizens are Merchants , and have Vessels of their own , or venture in other Vessels , wholly relying ●pon the advantage that Accrues by Trading in forrain Countries , as wanting Land to improve their Stock at home , so that of late it has been observed they put out their Money to Interest in England and France , to more considerable interest then it will allow in their own Country ; 4 or 5 per cent . being great interest there , which is so ordered that by such means , People may be the willinger to venture in way of Trade by Merchandise , which returns them for the most part 50. per cent . and all charges pay'd . The Commodities found in Amsterdam , as Silks , Cloath , Woollen , and Linnen , Stuffs , Drugs of all sorts , Spices , Dies , Oyls , Allum , Brimstone , Gold and Silver-Thread , Wines , and indeed all sorts of Commodities that are found of any use in the known World , but the chief Commodities that the Country affords , which may properly be called the Growth or Manufacture , are Cattle , Butter , Cheese , Flax , Corn , Linnen Cloath , Coarse Woollen Cloaths , Tapestry , Pictures , and all sorts of Fish , but especially Herrings , of which they make an Extraordinary advantage , imploying in the Season for that Fishery 6000 Persons . The Weight commonly used in Amsterdam is the pound of 16 Ounces , 100 of which make 107 of Antwerp , and of London 110. The Measure of length is the Ell , 134 of which make 100 Yards of London , or 100 London Ells make 167 1 / ● Ells of Amsterdam . Their Concave Measures are for Corn , the Last , the Barrel , the Muyden , the Sack , the Archeteling , and the Sheple ; as thus , 24 Barrels make the Last , each Barrel containing 1 1 / ●2 Muydens , a Muyden containing 1 2 / 24 Sacks , each Sack being 3 Archetelings , or 3 21 / 29 Shepels 108 Shepels , making the Last . The Measures for Wine , Oyl , Beer , and other Liquids , are for the most part the same with those of England ; and therefore I shall pass them over . The Coyns in which the Accounts are kept , are the same with Antwerp , viz. Livers , Solds , and Deniers , the Liver or Pound Flemish being 12 Shillings Sterling , 6 Florins make the Flemish pound at 20 Stivers per Florin , so that 120 Stivers are the Flemish pound or 12 Shillings English , 5 Stivers being 6 pence Sterling or 5 Solds Turnois , a Gross is 6 Deniers , a Carolus Gulden is 20 Stivers or 2 Shillings Sterling , or 2 Sols Turnois . And besides these all the currant Coyns of Europe pass here according to their true value , as they again may be payed for Merchandise to the Merchants of the Countries , to which they are proper . And thus much for Antwerp and Amsterdam , as also for all the Provinces and Cities of the Netherlands , the Trade of which being included in what I have lay'd down ; so that from hence I shall pass into Germany , to take a View of that large Empire , the Trade of which I reduce into a few heads , or deliver it in the Description of the Trade of the Principal Cities . CHAP. LXXX . A View of Germany , its Provinces , and the Trade thereof . HAving thus far proceeded , as I hope , to the content of the Reader , I shall Survey the Empire of Germany , which is bounded on the North with Denmark and the Danish Seas , on the East with Prusia , Poland , and Hungary , on the South with the Alps , and on the West with France and Belgium , and abounds in Silver Mines , Copper , Lead , Tinn , Iron , Corn , Wine , Allum , Quick-Silver , Linnen , Woollen , Silks , Stuffs , Cattle , Corn , and other Commodities all of its own Growth and Manufacture . The Cities and Towns of the Empire , may by good Right be divided into 3 parts , as first the Hans-Towns , which enjoy large Privileges and Immunities , and are computed to be about 70 , which for the most par are accommodated with Navigable Rivers , and abound in rich Manufactures . Secondly those called the Imperial Cities , which are imputed free Cities , by Reason of their great Priviledges , above the rest in Coyning money , barring any acknowledgement of Subjection unless to the Emperor , whom they only do acknowledge for their Protector , and in lieu of it pay an annual Tribute , being 60 odd in number . And thirdly those that are under the Subjection of the Electoral Princes , which are commonly called Principalities . The Rivers by which these Towns for the most part are inriched are 4 , viz. the Danube which running 1500 Miles receives about 58 Navigable Rivers , and at last disimbogues it self into the Euzine or Black-Sea . The River Rhine which after passing through Germany , and Belgia for 800 Miles falls into the German Ocean , the River Albis which is large and Navigable for near 400 Miles , and the River Odera , which passing 300 Miles through the Country falleth into the Baltick Sea. There are likewise several other Rivers of note , that greatly contribute to the Fertilizing the Country , but these being the chief , I shall pass over the rest , unless the Description of some Cities require the mentioning of them . CHAP. LXXXI . A View of Strasburg , and the Trade thereof . STrasburg is an Imperial free City , Seated upon a fair Plain , about a furlong from the River Rhine , over which they have lay'd a Bridge , and a Channel cut which conveys Ships and Boats to the City , which is 8 Miles in compass , adorned with many stately Buildings ; and amongst the rest a Cathedral , whose Steeple is for curious Architect accounted one of the 7 Wonders of the World , and by Reason of the Generosity of the Inhabitants towards Strangers , there is great resort thither , especially of Lutherans , Calvinists , &c. but above all it abounds in Handicrafts or Artizans who find great incouragement , and by their Labour is the common Stock improved ; tho since its falling into the Hands of the French King , they have not proceeded with such Alacrity as formerly , by Reason of the little assurance they have of keeping what they acquire by their Labour . The Commodities Traded for hither are Linnen Cloath , Iron , Diaper , Rhenish Wine , Copper , Wax , and Hemp , for which they receive out of England Tinn , Lead , and Woollen Cloath ; out of Spain Fruits ▪ Wines , Oyls , Salt , and Wool ; and out of Italy Silks , both Raw and wrought . The Weights are two , viz. the Gross and Suttle , where upon Tryal it has been found , that the 100 pound Suttle of London has made Incirca 70 in 71 of the Gross of Strasburg , which Gross Weight is 16 Ounces to the pound , and the Suttle but 12 Ounces , by the latter of which all Indian Commodities are weighed , as Nutmegs , Cloves , Cinnamond , Drugs of all sorts , Indicoes and rich Dies . The Measure of length is the Ell , which is about 38 English Inches ; as for Concave Measures they use but few , and those the same with other Cities of the Empire , of which anon I shall have occasion to speak . The currant Coyn is the Bobemico , Gross , or Blaphace , which is 3 Crutfers , one Crutfer being 2 pence , one penny 2 Hellers , and one Heller 2 Orchines . And in these Coyns all the Accounts are kept . CHAP. LXXXII . A View of Vienna , and of the Trade , Weights , Measures , Coyns , &c. VIenna is one of the fairest and strongest Cities of the Empire , and for the most part the Imperial Seat , having on the North of it the River Danow ; which dividing into 3 Streams causes , as it were , an Island ere it again unites ; and over the Streams are 3 Stone Bridges of 15 , 29 and 57 Arches , all the Streets are adorned with stately Buildings , and in the City many Merchants reside , who have their Factories in Venice , Florence , Genoa , &c. and by that means it abounds in rich Commodities of all Nations , especially Sattins , Damasks , Taffatas , Velvets , Cloath of Gold and Silver , Drugs , Spices , Wool , Lead , Iron , Copper , Flax , Wine , Oyl , Wax , Tallow , Furs , and the like ; which is dispersed into the Neighbourhood to supply the Towns and Cities of less note . The Weight is the pound , which in the Sale of some Commodities is divided into 32 Coets , and in others into 128 Quints , and by some again into 512 Fennings , of this pound 100 makes the Quintar , which in London is found to make between 122 and 123 pound . The Measures of length are 2 , one for Linnen , and the other for Woollen , the 100 Yards of London , are found to make 103 Ells of Vienna Linnen Measure , and of the Woollen Measure 113 Ells. The Coyns currant are the Rhenis Guilder worth 28 ½ Silver Missens Gross , or 36 ½ Lubeck Shillings , 7 ½ of which make one of our Shillings , the Imperial-Doller which is worth 33 Lubeck Shillings , the common Guilden worth 28 Lubeck Shillings , and the French Crown worth 44 Lubeck Shillings , &c. By Reason of the Emperors residing here , there is a great Exchange , which is by Rix Dollars of 8 Shillings Flemish , and by Ducats of Gold of 12 Shillings Flemish . CHAP. LXXXIII . A View of Hamburg , of the Trade , Weights , Measures , Coyns , and Commodities thereof . HAmburg is an Imperial City , Seated on a large Plain , and has on the South side the River Elve , being Accommodated with a fair Haven , cross which is cast a Chain to hinder Ships from entering without Licence ; and on the North-East side , some distance from the Walls of the City runs the River Alster , and is adorned with many fair Buildings , fortifyed with strong Walls , Ditches , and Bulwarks . The Trade at present is very considerable , by Reason of the residence of our Merchants there , and the Factories held in other parts , it being the Key as it were of that part of Germany , whither the Inland Towns bring their Commodities to vend , as Quick-Silver , Stuffs , Silks , Cloath , Wine , Wax , Cordage , Corn , and the like ; most Italian Commodities are found here , and great quantities of the Growth of Spain , and here the English vend Cloath , Iron , Tinn , Lead , Drugs , Spices , and the like , receiving for them the Growth and Manufactures of the Empire . The Weight is the pound ; 120 of which are accounted the Quintar , which is divided into 3 parts or denominations , viz. the 12 Stone of 10 pound to the Stone , 300 pound are accounted the Skip pound , which is the second , & that which is call'd the third , is 20 Lispound of 15 pound to the 300 , which may be said to be one Quintar of 120 pound , and another of 300 pound . The Measure of length is the Ell , by which all Woollen , Linnen , and Silks are Measured , 100 of which are accounted t● make in London 48 Ells for Linnen , and th● 100 Yards of London to be 162 or 163 of Hamburg Yards . The Concave Measure is the Scheple 90 of which make the Last of Corn in this place , tho 83 are found to do the same at Amsterdam , or to produce 10 Quarters of London Measure . The Merchants exchange for London by the pound Sterling , and from all other places upon Rix Dollers of 50 Shillings Lapisto or 54 Stivers . A Doller is here noted to be worth 3 white pence , each white Penny to be 18 Shillings , each Shilling 12 pence , and each penny two Hellers . And thus much for Hamburg and of the Empire . CHAP. LXXXIV . A View of Denmark , and of its Trade , together with the Commodities , Weights , Measures , and Coyns thereof . DEnmark is bounded on the East with the Baltick Ocean , on the West with the German Ocean , on the North with Sweeden , and on the South with the Germain Empire ; and contains Cimbrick Chersonese , the Islands of the Baltick , and part of Scandia , which are divided into several Provinces ; the which for Brevities sake I shall pass over , and reduce their Trade into the 2 Principal Cities . And of the Islands I shall treat in their order . And first of Copenhagen , and the Trade thereof . Copenhagen is the Metropolis of Denmark , and the Seat of the Danish Kings , for the most part , being Commodiously Seated on the Sea-shore , and provided of a safe and goodly Haven , for the reception of Shipping , being strongly Fortifyed and Beautifyed with a Castle and other stately Edifices , which are for the more part possessed by Merchants that Trade there , for the Growth and Manufacture of the Kingdom , which chiefly consists in Hides , Tallow , Fish , Bucks-Skins , Armour of all sorts , Furniture for Shipping , Corn , Cattle and the like ; for which they receive Drugs , Spices , Tinn , Lead , Gold , Silver , Silks , Woollen and Linnen Cloaths , &c. The currant Coyn is the Dollar and Shilling , one Danish Shilling making one Lubeck Shilling , and 66 Danish Shillings accounted to the Dollar , which is 5 Shillings Sterling . The Accounts in this City are kept by Merchants , in Marks of 16 Shillings Danish . The Exchanges are practised by Rix Dollars , to the value as aforesaid . The Weights and Measures of this Kingdom ; I shall Summ up in the next Chapter , by Reason the difference of Weights and Measures in this City , and the rest little or nothing vary . CHAP. LXXXV . A View of Elsinore , and the Trade thereof . ELsinore is Situate upon the Straight leading to the Sound , and greatly frequented by Seamen ; by Reason of the Extraordinary passage through the Straight , for which every Vessel pays to the King of Denmark a considerable Summ for permission , no Ships being otherwise capable to pass by Reason of the Castles that Guard that pass on either side , viz. Coronsburg , and Elsburg , the latter being in the Kingdom of Norway ; on the East side of the Sealand near to Elsinore , the King has a Pallace for his Summer Recreation , which has a Prospect over the Sea , and 't is reported that this Tole or Duty arising upon the passing and repassing over Ships into the Sound and Baltick , amounts to more then all the Crown Revenues besides . The Commodities vended here are for the most part Fish , Cattle , Corn , Oyl , Beer , Cordage , Masts , Sails , and the like , for fitting out , and revictualling Ships , for which they receive the Growth of England , Holland , Germany , and France ; the Monies currant here are the same with those of Copenhagen . The Weights are as in Copenhagen , and in most parts of the Kingdom , the great and shall 100 , the former being accounted 120 pound to the 100 , and the latter 112 pound , being accounted 12 Stone of 10 pound to the Stone ; they have likewise a Skip-pound of 32 Stone of 10 pound the Stone , or 20 Lispound of 16 Mark pound is a Skip-pound , and 20 times pounds 16 are 320 pound . The Measures of the Kingdom in General are for Length , are the Ells for Woollen , Linnen , and Silks , 160 of which are accounted to make the 100 Ells English . As for Concave Measures they are little in use unless for Corn. The Trade of this Kingdom by Navigation is but small , they seldom Sailing out of their own Seas , or at most , no further then the German , British , and Mediterranean Seas or Oceans . Therefore I shall desist from any further Survey thereof , and pass over the Staight to take a View of the Kingdom of Norway , now Subject to the Danish Scepter . CHAP. LXXXVI . A View of the Kingdom of Norway , and the Trade thereof . NOrway is bounded on the West and South with the Ocean , and on the East and North with Lappia , and the Dofrine Mountains , and abounds in Firr-Trees , which are brought into England in abundance and serve for Masts , Boards , and Building Houses ; the other Commodities are Stock-Fish , Furs , Train Oyl , Cordage , some Rossen and Sail-Cloaths . The Towns by Reason of the coldness of the Clime and Dampness caused by the Sea are but few , the chief being Nidrosia and Bergen , once a famous Mart , but now reduced to nothing in respect of Trade , the Trade that it had having passed through several Cities , is at last setled in Amsterdam , and what Trade does remain is from the Ships that pass this way to Moscovia . The Weight most in use is the pound , 100 of which renders 92 London Averdupois Weight , tho of late they have got a Custom to Weigh in a String , which is very uncertain , rendering sometimes more , sometimes less . Their Measure of Length and Concave Measures , the latter of which is for the most part used in Measuring of Salt , are agreeable to our Yard and Bushel . The Commodities vended here are Bays , Says , Linnen , Wine , Spices , Sugars , Gunpowder , Lead , Tinn , Iron , and such like . And thus much may suffice for Norway , leaving which I shall proceed in this Northern Tract , and take a View of Sweedland , the Trade of which I shall reduce into the Principal City of that Kingdom , viz , Stockholm . CHAP. LXXXVII . A View of Sweedland , of its Provinces , and Trade reduced into the Trade of the City of Stockholm . SWeedland has on the East Muscovia , on the West the Dofrine Hills , on the North the Frozen Ocean , and on the South the Baltick , and contains 5 Provinces , viz. Gothland , Sweeden , Lappia , Bodia , and Finland , in the former of which is found Stockholm , the Metropolis of the Kingdom ; and Seated in a Watery Marsh in the nature of Venice , and is much frequented with Merchants , being for the most part the Regal Seat , so that to it Flow all the Commodities of the Kingdom ; which are chiefly Buck-Skins , Goats-Skins , Ox Hides , Barly , Tallow , Malt , Tar , Pitch , Rosin , Furs , Lead , Copper , Silver , Iron , Wax , Honey , and the like ; and for its advantageous Situation , it is much Traded to , having a Channel capable of receiving Ships of any Burthen ; and so well guarded with Castles of Extraordinary Strength , that no Ship can pass in nor out without lieve first obtained ; the Buildings are pleasant to behold for their Antiquity and fine Devices ; a place being purposely erected in the Principal Street , for the conveniency of Merchants , and the laying up such Commodities , as they either have to vend or have purchased ; so that in this City are found the Growths and Manufactures of almost all Nations . The currant Coyn of this Kingdom is the Dollar , which is divided into 8 Marks , and each Mark into 2 Clippings , each Clipping being accounted 9 ½ Stivers Flemish , and in exchange the Dollar is only used . The Weight is the pound 116 of which is found to make the 100 pound of London ; they have likewise 2 Skip-pounds , the one the proper Skip-pound of Stockholm , which is 320 pound of the before mentioned pound , the other is 340 pound and proper to Dantzick . Of which in order I shall come to Treat . The Measure of Length is the Ell , 166 of which are 100 Yards of London Measure , sometimes more sometimes less ; for this is the Rule , they take a Piece of Rope , and Measure it by the bigness of a mans Head , which they call their Ell , so that according to the largeness or smallness of the Head , by which they take their Measure , the Measure is found to consist . Their Concave Measures are of little use , unless for Corn and Mault , and those are Measured by a Loop , 23 of which make a Last in Amsterdam , and in London 10 Quarters . And thus much shall Suffice for Sweeden , and the Trade thereof . CHAP. LXXXVIII . A View of Moscovia , and the Trade thereof , reduced into the Trade of Mosco , the Principal City of that large Dominion . MOscovia is bounded on the West with Lituania and Livonia , on the East with Tartary , on the North with the Frozen Ocean , and on the South with the Caspian Sea , the Ottoman Empire and Palus Maeotis , and is Branched with many large and Navigable Rivers , as Tanais , Duino , Boristhenes , Onega , and Volga , and is divided into 9 Provinces , as Novogradia , Valadomira , Plescovia , Rhesen , Servia , Parmia , Candoria , Petrosa , and Moscovia ; from whence all the Country takes its Name . These Provinces abound in Corn , Cattle , Furs , Hides , Flax , Hemp , Whales , Grease , Canvas , Ropes , Cavier , Tallow , Honey , Wax , Venison , Flax , Hemp , and Fish . The Trade being begun by the English about the Year 1575 in general , tho before some Vessels of Private Merchants had Traded thither , and found out the Commodities since so much sought after ; and upon the increase of Trade in these parts , a Society of Merchants in London , are incorporated by the Name of Muscovia Merchants , having setled a Factory at Archangel . Mosco the Metropolis of Moscovia , is Seated on the River Mosca , which falls in to Tanais ; this City is reckoned 6 Miles in compass , and is for the most part the imperial Seat , being much Beautifyed since it was Burnt by the Tartars , upon their invading the Moscovite Empire ; and here the English Merchants find kind entertainment , unless in Troublesome times , as of late it happened upon the murther of the Czar , in which general Calamity many suffered in their Goods ; but now things are again reduced to a quiet and setled condition , so that Trade again begins to Florish , the Country affording great store of Furs , as Beaver , Otter , Sables , White , Black , Red , and Dun Fox-Skins , with many others of the like nature ; which are sold by the Timber , Weight , or Tale , being highly valued of late by the Natives , who perceiving the desire Merchants have for them , learn thereby to set prices on them accordingly . The Merchants Accounts are kept here Divers ways , as those of England in Rubles and Pence , called by the Natives Muskofkins , 200 of which make a Ruble , which is rated at 2 Rix Dollars , the Dutch by Rubles , Grevens , and Muscofkins , 20 pence being accounted to the Greven , and 10 Grevens to the Ruble which is only an Imaginary Coyn. The currant money is the Capeck worth a Stiver Flemish , and something more in value then an English penny , 10 of which make a Greven , whi●h is worth 12 pence Sterling , and the Ruble 10 Shillings Sterling , 3 Capecks is called an Altine , by which name all receipts of Bargain , and contracts are made , 33 Altines and one Capeck making the Ruble . At Archangel there is exchange practised , and the price of monies Russ as the Plenty or Scarcity will allow , for sometimes the Rubles in exchange pass for 11 Shillings 6 pence Sterling , the Receipts being in August , to return in London about the latter end of December . The Weight most in use is the Pood , by which all fine Goods are weighed , as Silk , Beavor , Wool , and the like ; but for Gross Goods they have a Weight called a Berzovet accounted 10 Poods or the Russ Ship-pound computed to be 360 pound Averdupois , so that all Goods bought by this Weight , are accounted to be 10 per cent . profit , so that many have reckoned the Goods so bought to pay the Fraight with over Weight ; and all Goods bought by the Pood are reckoned 10 per cent . less . The Measure of Length is called the Archin , and is accounted 28 English Inches , so that the 100 Archings are supposed to produce Incirca 78 Yards of London Measure . Oyl they sell by the Barrel , each Barrel being accounted ½ a Hogshead , and Tar by the Hogs-head ; as for Concave Measures I observe , they are but rarely in use by way of Trade , by Reason of the small quantities of Commodities the Empire affords , that are proper to be Measured thereby . Therefore I shall put a conclusion to the Trade of Moscovy , and proceed to a View of Poland . CHAP. LXXXIX . A View of the Kingdom of Poland , together with the Trade , Weights , Measures , and currant Coyns thereof . POland is bounded on the East with Boristhenes , on the West with Vistula , on the North with the Baltick Ocean and Sinus Trinicus , and on the South with Hungary ; and is divided into 10 Provinces , viz. Luconia , Lituania , Volinia , Samogita , Podolia , Russia Nigra , Prussia , Podtasia , Masovia , and Poland ; these Provinces are Branched with several Navigable Rivers Vistula , Reuben , Bog , Mimel and others , and has for its Metropolis Cracovia . Into which I shall reduce the Trade of this Kingdom . Cracovia is the Metropolis of Poland , Situate on the Banks of the River Vistula , which is Navigable for near 400 Miles , being as it were incompassed with distant Mountains , and fortifyed with strong Walls and fair Buildings ; being the Seat of the Kings of Poland , and is found to produce the Commodities of the whole Kingdom , as Tar , Rosin , Pitch , Hemp , Wax , Honey , Barly , Oats , Amber , Tallow , and Hides , which Commodities are sent up the River ; and distributed to such Merchants as come to Trade for the Growth of the Kingdom . There are likewise found Furs of divers sorts , some Minerals , and the like ; for which the Inhabitants receive the Commodities of divers Nations which are brought both by Land and Sea. The Coyns of this City , and consequently of the Kingdom , are the Ducat of Gold called the Polander ; which is accounted 70 Polish Gross . The Silver Guilden which is worth 30 Polish Groshe or 2 Shillings Sterling , a Dollar in Specie is worth 4 Polish Groshes , but in all contracts of buying and selling , the Doller is accounted 36 Groshe , a Crietszar is worth 3 Pot-chanels , 18 Deniers make one Groshe , a Groshe of Poland or Bohemia is worth 7 Whites , 16 Whites make one Ort , 4 0rts make a Dollar , and a Dollar is accounted 4 Shillings 4 pence . The Weight is the pound , 136 of which is accounted the Quintar , which is found in London to render 114 pound , and the 100 of London yieldeth 120 of Cracovia , but the common pound is reduced to a Stone of 40 pound , 10 of the said Stones being accounted the Skip-pound . The Measure of Length is the Ell , 20 of which are 10 English Ells , but their Linnen they sell by the Shock , the Shock being 57 ½ English Ells. And to this City it will not be amiss to add Elbin , once a Scale of Merchandise , where the English Merchants had a Factory , being here known by the Name of the Merchants of Elbin , but since this City has fallen into the Hands of the King of Poland , it has lost the great Trade it had upon the Abridgement of the Liberties and Priviledges it enjoyed , during its being in the possession of the Teutonick Knights , so that now it only is famous for what it has been , and not for what it at present remains , the Trade being dispersed into several Eastland Cities , or Hans Towns , but from Danzick especially are brought Soap-Ashes . The Weights are the Pound and Stone , 40 pound making the Stone , and 40 of those Stones make the Ship-pound , which is 400 pound , and 100 pound of London is found to make 120 of Elbin . Their Last of Wheat is reckoned to weigh 5200 pound . Their Measure of Length is the Ell , 163 of which make 100 London Yards . In this Tract is found Coninsberg , Rhiga , Stetin , Stralesond , and Revel , from the former of which the Amber is brought , as for the rest they little differ in Commodities and manner of Trade from Cracovia : Wherefore for Brevities sake , I shall pass them over , and take a View of Hungary and the Trade thereof , &c. CHAP. XC . A View of Hungary , and the adjacent Provinces , and of their Trade , Weights , Measures , Coyns , and Commodities of the Growth and Manufacture . THe Kingdom of Hungary is bounded on the East with Transilvania and Valachia , on the West with Austria , on the South with Sclavonia , and on the North with Poland , and is of it self exceeding Fertile , abounding in Cattle beyond credit , but by Reason of the continual Wars with the Turks , it standing as the Bulwark of Christendom , no great matter of Trade relating to Merchandise is found there ; the little that it consists in , is Hides , Tallow , Wax , Honey , Copper , Tinn , Corn , Wool , Fruits , Fish , Skins , and some Silver Mines , which ( since the civil Disenssions caused by the continual Bandying of the two parties under pretence of Religion , and the incouragement of those intestines Broyls by the Grand-Signeour ) have been thrown in many of them , and thereby render useless Buda , and many of the Principal Cities being now in the Hands of the Turks , and is so Seated upon the River Danube , that it hinders the free Commerce by Boats and great Vessels ; that was formerly very advantagious to the Hungarians ; so that leaving it s to recover its Trade , by Submiting to its rightful Soveraign the Emperor of Germany , and not longer trust the Flattery of the perfideous Ottomans . I shall take a View of Dacia and Sclavonia . Dacia , is bounded with the Euxine , on the East , and on the West with Hungary , on the North with the Carpathian Mountains , and on the South with Greece , and is divided into these Provinces , viz. Transylvania , Moldavia , Servia , Valachia , Russia , Bosna , and Bulgaria , all subjected to the Grand-Seigniour , and are Branched and Fertilized with these Rivers , viz. Danubius , Alata , Salvata , Cockle , and Morus , besides others of lesser note . The Commodities found in the several Provinces are Cattle , Wax , Honey , Butter , Cheese , Tallow , Wool , Silk , Cloath , Mines , of Gold and Silver , Salt-Pits , Wines ; and Mountains of Brimstone , which Commodities they send to Constantinople , Aleppo , and other Marts of the Turkish Empire , and receive in exchange the Commodities of all Nations , as for Weights and Measures , they are rarely in use , they selling and buying for the most part by those of the Marts , whether they resort with their Commodities ; their Coyns are those currant throughout the Ottoman Empire . Of which I shall come to speak , in the View of Constantinople . Sclavonia is bounded on the South with the Adriatick Sea , on the North with Hungary , on the West with Italy part , and on the East with the River Drinus , and a Line that passes from thence to the Sea ; and is chiefly divided into 2 parts , viz. Illyria and Dalmatia , the name of the former being lately by the Turks , changed into that of Windismark , the which abounds in Butter , Cheese , Cattle , Corn , Oyl , Wine , Hemp , Wool , Wax , Honey , Tallow , Iron , and the like . Of Dalmatia , Rhagusa is the Principal City , so that I will not be amiss to reduce the Trade of that Province , which is not Extraordinary into its Metropolis . Rhagusa formerly called Epidaurus , is Seated on the Adriatick Shoar , and was once a Common-Wealth of great Traffick , and the first in those parts that Furnished out Ships of War of considerable force , with which they awed their Neighbours , and gave Laws in those Seas , but since the English and Dutch Navigators have turned the currant of Traffick another way , and drained those parts of the Commerce that was wont to Flow in upon them like the Ocean . The Inhabitants are no ways considerable , yet the Commodities of the Province are found there , as Honey , Wax , Horses for War , Hides , Tallow , Silver , and Gold unrefined , some Amber , Corral and the like , but of small value ; for which they receive of those English , that make Trading Voyages , Hampshire Carsies , and other Coarse Cloath , Lead , Tinn , and such like ; and that mostly for provision . The Coyns in use here is the Gross , 59 of which are accounted a Sultany , or 8 Shillings Sterling . The Weight is the pound 100 of which make 80 pound English , which is the Quintal of Rhagusa . Their Measure of Length is the Brace , according with the Venetian Brace , thus , 100 Braces of Rhagusa of the Cloath Brace , are 120 in Venice of the same , and of the Silk Brace 116 of Venice make the 100 of Rhagusa . And thus leaving Hungary , Dacia , and Sclavonia , I shall pass into Greece , and take a Survey of the Trade of that once famous Empire . CHAP. XCI . A View of Greece and of the Trade thereof , Comprized in the Trade found at the famous City of Constantinople , together with the Weights , Measures , Customs , and Coyns thereof . GReece famous for being once Mistriss of the Vniverse , is bounded on the South with the Ionian Sea , on the North with the Mountain Hemus , on the East with the Hellispont , Aegean Sea , Propontis , and the Thracian Bosphorus , and is Fertilized by these considerable Rivers ; viz. Cephius , Erigon , Alicmon , Sirmon , Alicus , and Nisus , and is divided into 8 Principal Provinces , viz. Peloponnesus , Achaia , Epirus , Albania , Macedonia , Thessalia , Migdonia , and Thracia , all of them replenished with Cities of note ; but seeing their Trade Centers in Constantinople , thither I shall refer it . The famous City of Constantinople , once the Seat of the Roman Eastern Empire , and now of the Ottoman Emperor , for the most part is Seated upon a large Stream , that passeth from the Euxine to the Mediterranian Sea , commonly called the Black and White Seas , so that by such means Ships from either Sea have a free passage , which causes a quicker return then otherwise could be made , by Reason from one part or other the Wine rarely fails : It Fronts likewise Asia , receiving most of the Commodities by Sea and Land that are found in that large quarter of the World , and stands as it were the Bulwark of Europe , lastly founded by Constantine the great , and made the Seat of the Roman Empire as aforesaid , being taken after a long Siege by the Turks Anno 1453 , who ever since have possessed it , it being Builded in a Triangle , having the 2 large Angles Bordering on the Sea , and the other stretched into the Land , and is incompassed with a Triple Wall , upon which are divers Towers , and the Walls themselves Guarded by deep Ditches , and Cannons all along the works to the Sea ; the Buildings for the most part are very stately , but especially the Grand-Signeours Pallace , on the point of the Angle , being surrounded with a Wall of 3 Miles in compass , and strong works furnished with great and small Artiliry . This City is the common Mart for all Commodities of the Empire , receiving & dispersing inwards and outwards the growth of each Province : And hither the Merchants of London first began to Trade Anno 1586 , and in a short time found such incouragement upon Queen Elizabeths sending an Ambassador to mediate on their behalf ; that they soon obtained to be incorporated by the said Queen , and growing in Trade , were confirmed by King James , with an Augmentation of their Priviledges , and then by King Charles the first , under the Title of the Merchants of England , Trading in the Levant Seas , or Levant Merchants , upon whose account a Leiger Ambassador remains at Constantinople , to protect the Companies Factories , and take care that right be done them , who before his departure from England , is always approved of by his Majesty , but himself and retinue have their charges defrayed by the Company , which Honourable trust now remains in the right Honourable the Lord Shandois , they have likewise several Consuls to protect their Factories throughout the Empire , who keep Janizaries , Druggermen or Interpreters , Secretaries , and Ministers , with other the like necessary attendants in Sallary , being permitted free exercise of Religion : And hither it is at present that the English are found the Principal Traders , tho the Venetians , French , and Dutch , by sundry devices have indeavoured to insinuate themselves , into the good opinions of the Turkish Merchants ; who are accounted 4 kinds , viz. the Native Greek , the Turks , the Armenians , and lastly the Jews . The chief Commodities found here are Grograms , Mohairs , Chamlets , Persian-Silk , wrought and unwrought Gold , Carpets , Anniseeds , Cumminseeds , Cottons , Galls , Pepper , Jndico , Nutmegs , Cinamon , Mace , and Drugs , these last being the Commodities of the East-India's , are brought cheaper and better from thence , therefore not Traded for by the English at Constantinople , but rather carryed by them thither , and exchanged for the Growth of the Empire , as likewise Lead , Tinn , Cloath , Furs , as Martins , Cony-Skins , Sables , Titchues , and the like ; at the change of every Ambassador , the Company make a present to the Grand-Signeour , which is levyed by the Company themselves by way of imposition , the like are the French , and Dutch obliged to do upon some occasion , and for the support of their Factories and Ambassadors . The Accounts are kept in Dollars and Aspers , a Dollar being computed 80 Aspers , tho sometimes in way of Merchandise 100 Aspers are accounted to the Dollar , and and 120 Aspers to the Sultany . The Coyns currant in this City , and consequently throughout the Empire are the Sultany of Gold , agreeing with the Venice Chequin , or is as aforesaid 120 Aspers , the German Dollar , the Ryal of 8 / 8 Spanish , currant at 80 Aspers ; the Lyons Dollar is currant at 75 Aspers , the German Sesetine at 70 Aspers , and indeed any Coyn if found good Gold or Silver is currant in Constantinople , and most parts of the Empire ; a Policy used to procure plenty of Coyn , for the maintainance of the Janizaries and others , in pay of all Nations . The Weights are the Grain , 4 of which make a Quillat , a Dram which is 16 Grains of which all greater Weights are composed by Multiplication : as a Yursdrome is 100 Drams , and found to be 1 pound Sotile of Venice , or 72 Mittigals : a Lodero is 176 Drams , or 19 ½ Ounces Averdupois : an Oake is 400 ▪ Drams accounted 2 pound 11 ½ Ounces : 100 Lodero's are accounted 24 Oaks ; and compose the Quintar of Constantinople , which has been found to render between 118 and 120 pound English Suttle . A Batman is 6 Oaks , or 16 ⅓ pound English , by which all Silks are bought , and according to these all other Weights of the Empire are regulated . The Measures of Length are the Pico's , which are 3. The first for Cloath which is accounted 26 ½ Inches . The second for Grograms , Chamlet , and such like , containing 24 Inches , so that 24 of these Pico's are found to make 16 English Yards . The third is the Linnen Pico , which is the former doubled . To none of these is any advantage allowed as in England . The Concave Measure is called the Killow , by which for the most part Corn is Measured , 8 ⅔ of which are observed to make the London Quarter , Wines , Oyls , and almost all Liquids are sold by the Meter , weighing 8 Oaks , and is about ⅔ of an English Gallon , as indeed most Commodities are sold by Weight . The Customs payed by the Italians , French , and Jews , outward and inward are 5 per cent . the Turks themselves pay nothing , the English and Dutch pay 3 per cent . inward , and the like outward , which is payed in Specie , unless the Merchant does compound with the Customer for money ; and further it is to be observed , that , besides these Customs , there is by agreement payed 1 ½ per cent . upon all pondrous Commodities , and 1 upon all Measurable Commodities , which is to be defrayed between the buyer and seller , but if a Turk be one , his part is remitted , and this is levyed for the Maintainance of a Hospital founded by Sultan Achmet , which duties are farmed by an Emine or Farmer call'd the Grand-Seigenors receiver , and are most commonly payed the one half in Aspers , of 80 Aspers to the Dollar , and the other in Sultanies of Gold , or otherwise as the Merchants and Customer can agree . And thus having at large described the Trade of this great City , I shall proceed to take a View of the Islands of note , lying in the Egean , Ionian , Mediterranian , and Adriatick Seas . CHAP. XCII . A View of the Islands in the Ionian , Egean , Mediterranean , and Adriatick Seas ; with a Description of the Trade , Weights , Measures , Coyns , and Commodities of the Growth and Manufacture of the most considerable of them . THe Islands in these Seas are many , therefore I shall only name those of little note and insist upon the chief . First then there is found the Island of Tenedos , abounding with Wines . The Isle of Samothracia , commodious for the Harbouring Ships . Lemnos from whence comes that Antidote , called Terra Sigilata , or Terra Lemnos , then Scio or Chios , abounding in Trees , from which they distill Mastick , which Commodities the Grand Signeour claims as his right . Next the famous Island of Rhodes , which by Reason of its commodious Situation in the Ocean , is found to be a Place of great resort . In the chief City from which the Island takes name , is a considerable Mart , affording Corn , Wines , Oyls , Rasins , Wax , Honey , Cotton , Cordovants , Cotton Wools , and Cotton Yarn , Dimities , Vermilions , Damask , Stuffs , Silks , and the like ; being the Commodities of divers Islands in those Seas , and here some Factories are maintained ; and the Accounts kept in Aspers of Turky , and the other Coyns for the most part the same . The Weight is the Rotolo , 100 of which makes the Quintar or 536 pound English . The Measure of Length is the Cane , which is found to be 84 Inches of English . The next Island that offers , is the famous Island of Candia , which cost the Turks so dear a purchase . Therefore I shall not think it amiss to describe its Commodities , Weights , and Measures . CHAP. XCIII . A View of the Isle Candia and other Islands . THe Isle of Candia is Seated in the Mouth of the Egean Sea , and is now in subjection to the Grand-Signeor , being exceeding Fruitful and affords considerable Commodities , as Muskadels , Fine-Sugars , Gums , Honey , Wax . Dates , Oranges , Limons , Olives , Rasins , Corn , Cattle , Fish , and the like ; containing several Cities of note as Candia ; from whence the Island has its name , Canea , Rhettmio , Sittia , and Suda , being a Haven capable of receiving 1000 or 1500 large Vessels , and before the Venetians lost it , their Coyns were currant throughout the Island , and their Weights the Quintars Suttle and Gross . The Gross 100 of Candia rendering 110 of the like Gross Weight of Venice , or 118 English pound , and 100 pound Suttle of Candia , 114 pound of Venice Suttle , or 76 pound English . The Measures of Length are the Pico's , one for Cloath , another for Silk , and their Measure for Wine called the Mestach ; but the Turks have since their conquest made some alteration in the Weights , Measures , and Coyns which as yet are not come to my knowledge , I not having been there since the reduction . In the Ionian Sea are also found the Isle of Cerigo , abounding with Marble , the Strophades or Strivalia , the Cursalari Islands , and Corfue , the last of which abounds in Wax , Honey , Oyl , and Wine , Stuffs , Silk-Fabricks , &c. There is likewise found St. Mairo , Ithaca , Zeffalonia , and Zant , the 3 latter of which are famous for the Currans found growing there in abundance , and from thence dispersed throughout Europe , but mostly spent in England , wherefore I shall somewhat inlarge in describing the Trade thereof . CHAP. XCIV . A View of Zant , Zeffalonia , and Ithaca , together with their Trade , Commodities , Weights , Measures , Coyns , &c. THe Commodities that these Islands principally afford are Honey , Wax , Oyl , Wine & Currans , being Subject to the Signeory of Venice ; and hither it is that the English Trade for Currans , now being of great use ; and from whence they yearly bring 3000 Tuns or upward , which at first they bought for small matters , but the Venetians seeing that Fruit so much coveted , began to inquire into the use they were put to , the which when they found , and thereupon imagined the English could not Subsist without them , the better to recover the lost Trade of Venice ; that State imposed a Tax of 5 Ducats upon every 1000 Weight , which is since Augmented , notwithstanding the Custom payed in England with this Proviso ; that the Currans be laden in a Vessel that comes purposely to lade that Commodity , but if She Landeth her outward Fraight in Venice or ⅔ part thereof , and then goeth to Lade at any of these Islands , the Customs then are moderated . For the Growth of these Islands ; the English Merchants Exchange Cloath , Perpetuano's , Serges , Lead , Tinn , Herrings , Newland-Fish , and Pilchards , tho the greatest Trade is for Spanish Ryals ; all the other money currant amongst the Islanders , being the same with that of Venice . The Natives keeping their Accounts as in Venice , tho Merchants Strangers often keep theirs in Dollars , which are those Ryals of 8 / 8 and Gassets 80 to the Dollar . The Weight is the pound of 12 Ounces , 100 of which pounds make the Quintar , and agrees with Venice , thus the 100 pound Suttle of Venice make but 63 ½ pound of these Islands , and the Gross hundred of Venice renders but the common 100 pound . Currans are bought by the 1000 , which 1000 Weight is reckoned to make 1070 pound English , tho of late by the carelesness of the Factors , or defraud of the Islanders , it is found much less . The Measures of Length are the two Braces , the long and the short , the long is for Woollen and Linnen Cloath , and the short for Silks , the former being found 27 English Inches , and the latter to be 6 in 7 per cent . lesser . Oyl is sold by a Measure called the Liver , and is computed to weigh 13 pound English , 10 of which make a Candia , Barrel . Wine is sold by the Jar 3 ½ of which make the Candia Barrel . Corn they sell by the Bechelo 3 of which are accounted the Starro , and should weigh 44 pound , &c. The Customs raised upon the Commodities of these Islands yearly , are between 40 and 50000 Chequins of Gold ; which are the Income of the Signory of Venice . The Islands found in the Adriatick Sea are Absertides , Cherso , Vegea , Grissa , Leliva , Cursola , Brassia , Lissia , and Zara , which yield Wine , Corn , Oyl , Cattle , and the like ; but enjoy at this Day little or no Trade , except Zara the chief of them . And therefore I shall pass them over , and enter the Mediterranean , to take a View of the Islands Seated therein . CHAP. XCV . Of the Islands in the Mediterranian Sea , and the Trade of the Principal of them . IN the Mediterranian Sea are found these Islands viz. Sicilia , Malta , Corsica , Sardinia , Majorica , and Minorica , of the chief of which in order . Sicilia is the chief of these Islands , computed 700 Miles in circuit ; Fertilized with many Navigable Rivers , and adorned with many fair Cities , and is divided in 3 Provinces as Vallis-de-Nota , Masara , and Mona . In this Island is found the Flaming Mount Aetna , and Mount Hiblia , in which is found great store of Honey , but for Brevities sake , I shall reduce the Trade of this Island into that of Messina the chief Port thereof , which stands opposite to Regio in Calabria , the Island being divided from Italy by a narrow Frith or Channel , commonly called the Fare of Messina , and formerly accounted dangerous for Sailors , by Reason of a Rock on the one side , and a Sand on the other , known by the names of Scylla and Charibdis . This City for some Years past , has been Garisoned by the French , which put a stop to Inland Commerce , by Reason that the other Cities were in possession of the Spaniard , but since their abandoning it , the Trade is again returned , many Merchants of note residing there , and by Reason of its Commodiousness for the reception of Shipping , it has acquired a great Trade , so that hither are brought the Commodities of the whole Island , as Wines , Oyls , Wax , Honey , Saffron , Sugars , Corral , Agates , Pumice , Corn , Cattle , Hides , Skins , Cavear , Tuny Fish , and the like ; so that altho Palermo is the chief City and residence of the Spanish Vice-Roy , yet this is the chief Scale of Trade . The Merchants keep their Accounts in Ounces , Tarries , and Grains , one Ounce making 30 Tarries , and 1 Tarry 20 Grains , and by the same they account their money , viz. one Ounce or 30 Tarries is 5 Florins or Carlins , 12 Carlins making the Florin , one Tarry is accounted 12 Solds , 6 Deniers , or one Carline , the Carline being 10 Grains or 12 Livers , one Grain is 6 Picholis , and is 7 ½ Dew money of Siciliano , one Pancto is 8 Picholis , and the Ducat of Gold is worth 13 Tarries , and this money is currant throughout the Island . The Weights of Messina are two , viz. the Gross Cantar , by which they weigh all manner of Gross Commodities , the small or Suttle Cantar 10 pound less then the former , and is 100 Rotolo's of 30 Ounces , or 2 ½ pound Siciliano pounds , the former having been found to make 196 in 198 pound English , 20 Peso's being accounted the Suttle Cantar , and 22 the Gross Cantar . The Measure of Length is the Cane , divided into 8 Palms or 81 ½ Inches London Measure . The Concave Measures are the Salmo and Tomelo , 16 of the latter making the former , which is accounted 11 ¼ Staio's of Florence , Oyl is sold by the Cantar , which is 2 ¾ Barrels Florence , and hath been found to render in Weight 180 pound English . The Custom of this place and of the Island in general , is for the most part 9 and 10 per cent . upon all Sollid goods , but Fish and other Edible Commodities pay 12 per cent . and all Commodities of Weight imported , whether they are sold or not sold ; pay 3 per cent . at Messina , and removing from Ship to Ship , pays 3 per cent . and sometimes 3 ¼ , all Merchandise conveyed out of the Island at the Port of Messina , pay 6 ⅓ per cent . unless when the fair is , and then according to a Custom granted , some Commodities pay less then other some , as for instance , Silk pays but 3 per cent . The Islands of Malta , Corsica , and Sardinia , afford store of Oranges , Limons , Citrons , Honey , Wax , Oyls , Figs , Rasins , Wines , Honey , Allum , Box-Wood , Iron , Hides , Cheese , Cattle , and the like ; but are not much Traded too . And therefore I shall forbear to describe them further . Majorica and Minorica , the former 300 Miles in circuit , and the latter 250 are Seated in the Mediterranean , 9 Miles distant from each other ; and abound in Corn , Oyl , Wine , Fruits , Drugs , which are yearly laded for England and other Countries ; but especially Oyl . Their Monies are for the most part those currant in Spain . Their Weights 2 , viz. the Rotolo and Cantar , 100 of the first making the last called Barbaresco , which there is 117 pound making in London 110 pound , they have likewise another Cantar of 104 pound , called the Cantar of Majorica , they likewise sell some Commodities by the Cargo , as Pepper Ginger , Cinnamond , Nutmegs , Rice , and the which Cargo is 3 Cargo's , of 104 pound . The Measure of Length is the Cane , found to make 67 in 68 London Inches . The The Oyl Measure is the Quartano , 12 of which make the Odor , and 212 that of 126 Gallons which is a Tun of Oyl , according to London Gauge , and the Customs and other charges are reckoned to 2 pound 7 Shillings 6 Pence per Tun. In this Sea are the Islands of Javisa , affording store of Salt , as also the Isles Lipara Promentary , Pantcleria , Caprea , Ischia , Progitue , Elba , Gages or Cales , with some others of smaller note , affording Cattle , Corn , Olive , Oyl , Wine , Gapars , Cavere , Oranges , Limons , Citrons , Fish , and the like ; most of them in the possession of the Spaniard . And thus leaving the Medeterranian , I shall enter the North Ocean , to take a View of the Islands not as yet mentioned in this Treatise . CHAP. XCVI . A View of Greenland , and the Whale Fishery , with an account of several Islands in the Northern Seas . GReenland or Gronland is Seated under the Frozen Zone ; doubtful whither an Island or a Continent , by reason part of those Seas are not Navigable upon the account of the Mountains of Ice that Float therein , and for that none ever yet passed over Land to the extent of that dismal Country ; where from the 14 of October to the 12 of February no Sun appears , but the Moon shines as in England , and for 3 Months and a half , in Summer time they have no Night , as for humane Inhabitants there are none ; yet the Woods and Caves abound with Bears , Foxes , and Dear , and the Voyages the English make thither , are upon the account of the Whale Fishery , Whales in abundance being found in those deep Seas , the Ships seting out in May , and Arriving in June at Green-Harbour and Bell-Sound . They set up their Caldrons Presses and other necessaries , then put again to Sea , and when they perceive the Whales coming by the rising of the Water , they send out Skiffs with Hasping-Irons and Cables ; when the men therein taking their advantage strike the Whales , who no sooner find themselves wounded but Plunge to the Bottom , those in the Boat giving them Rope , and by their Sinking know where they will rise ; and give notice to the Ships who stand off for fear of being overset , when they rise with horrible Bellowing , they make towards the Shore spouting Blood and Water ; the Reason of their so doing is to indeavour the rubing out of the Irons upon the Sands , but in vain for then by force of Cables they draw them on shoar , and their cut out their Pulps , of which they make the Oyl , and their Fins , of which our Whalebone is made by drying and preparing ; so that sometimes one Whale is found to yield 3 Tuns of Oyl , and half a Tun Weight of Whalebone . Here it was that several Persons were left a whole Winter ( the Ship going away during their Hunting up in the Country ) and lived in a Hutt upon Bears-Flesh , Venison , Wild-Foxes , Birds , and the Greens or pressings of the Whales , till next year the Ships came again , and fetched them off . For 7 Months , all the Seas are Frozen over , and the Country is covered with Mountains of Snow . In this Tract is Nova Zembla , where the Pole is elevated 76 degrees , and whither the Dutch yearly resort to Fish for Whales , and such other Fish as yield matter for Oyl . It abounds in Dear , Wild-Foxes , and the like as Greenland ; and in it likewise not long since several Dutchmen were forced to Winter , & suffered great Extremity by Reason of the excessive cold . There are found likewise Sr. Willoughby's Island , called Queen Elizabeths Foreland ; likewise Freezland , Iceland and others of lesser note , but by Reason of the excessive cold , few of them are Inhabited , and the chief Commodities they yield are Ling , Cod , and Fish Oyls . And thus according to my promise having taken Survey of the Trade of all the known part of the Vniverse , as near as can be gathered from long experience and credible Authority , I shall return with Joy to Tread my Native Soil , and there take a View of what yet remains in relation to Trade and Commerce . And first I shall begin with Exchanges , that one necessary part of all Navigational and Inland Commerce . CHAP. XCVII . A View of the Practice of Exchanges in General , and the advantage accruing thereby . THat Exchanges are a Principal part of Merchandise , it is most certain , and has been so found for 200 Years p●st , tho not brought to perfection till of late Days . The places most apt for Exchanges are those where many Merchants of divers Nations reside ; and have frequent meetings in relation to Trade , and Prizes of Commodities , whose returns are Subject to great Exchanges , which are ever advantageous to the place where they are Practised . Now some places there are that have Exchanges in themselves , yet are compelled to depend upon other places ; having only certain times or Fairs appointed by the Custom of Exchangers , in which , or to which Bills of Exchange are either expired , renewed , or dated , one of which is Placentia ; and indeed all Towns in Countries where there is more then one Exchange established , the Metropolis or Principal Exchange gives Rules , and Rates to the rest ; provided the Coyns be of equal value and goodness , nor indeed tho many places have attributed the name of Exchanges , yet that Exchange remains not so much in Esse as in the will of the Merchants , Bankers , and Exchangers , in whose Power it is to assign the place as they think convenient ; and for the most part pitch upon Principal places , where their Bills are sure to have a quick dispatch . Now there are several Cities that exchange in one and the same Monies , Coyns , and Denomination ; as Naples , Lechie , Barry , the two latter included in the former , Palermo , and Messina , comprehended in Sicilia ; Valentia , Saragosa , and Barselona in Cattalonia ; Sevil , Alcala , and Medina-del-Campo in Castilia ; Frankford , Colona , Noremburg , and Augusta in Germany , with many other of less note . But exchange now from a Plain and easie Method is reduced to so many mysterious Points , that it is extraordinary difficult to understand it aright in all places , therefore I shall only lay down such Particulars as chiefly concern English Merchants ; and are conducing to the Trade of the Brittish Empire . The first thing then that is to be observed , is the true value of the Coyn of the City , or Port where you make your exchange , which is not to be taken according to the value of the Coyn as it is currant , but according to its Weight and fineness , and so the return may be proportionable ; but if Bills are drawn to pay a Merchant residing in any place where the Coyn is currant , and he disposes of it for Commodities of the Growth , or Manufacture of the Country , then it matters not how the Coyn has been inhaunced above its true value , by Reason it is currant , tho perhaps should the Coyn be carryed into an other Kingdom , it might redound to the loss of the receiver a third part ; and this equallizing Coyns of divers Nations by Ballance I called a Par , by which all Coyns of Silver or Gold especially , are reduced to an equal value ; as for example , Placentia exchanges with London one Crown of currant money there for 1 Shilling 6 pence ½ ob . Sterling , Lyons the Crown currant for 2 Shillings 8 pence Sterling , Rome exchanges her Ducat 87 ½ pence Sterling , Genoa her Crown of Gold at 83 pence Sterling , Millain her Crown of Gold 84 pence ½ ob . Sterling , Venice her Ducat at 60 pence Sterling , Florence her Crown at 80 pence , Luca her Ducat at 67 pence Sterling , Naples her Ducat at 66 ½ pence Sterling , Lechy her Ducat at 6 pence Sterling , Bary her Ducat at 62 pence Sterling , Palermo her Ducat at 78 pence Sterling , Messina her Ducat at 72 pence Sterling , Valentia her Ducat at 72 ½ pence Sterling , Saragosa her Ducat at 73 pence Sterling , Barsalonia her Ducat at 72 pence Sterling , Sevil her Ducat at 72 pence Sterling , Lisbon her Ducat at 69 pence Sterling , Bolonia her Ducat at 67 pence Sterling , Bergamo her Ducaton at 67 pence Sterling , Frankfort , Noremburg , Augusta , and Viena ( in all which Cities one and the same Coyn is currant ) Exchange their Florin at 50 pence Sterling ; all these Cities and Towns London exchanges within broken numbers ( that is by pence ) at the rates aforesaid , and so Multiplies into greater Summs as occasion requires , but with Antwerp and Collen , Amsterdam , &c , in whole number , as one pound Sterling for 34 ½ Flemish Shillings , and proportionable for greater Summs . Again in London and throughout all England Exchangers and Merchants keep their Accounts in Pounds , Shillings , Pence , and cast them up as is done in other places , by Solds , Livers , and Denire , viz. 12 pence to the Shilling , and 20 Shillings to the pound , and are found to exchange with Transmarine Cities thus , viz. to allow 64 pence Sterling , for the Crown of Placentia 64 pence Sterling , for the Crown of Lyons 66 pence Sterling , for the Ducat of Rome 65 pence , for the Crown of Gold of Genoa 64 2 / 4 pence , for the Crown of Gold of Millain 50 pence , for the Ducat in Banco of Venice 61 pence , for the Crown of Florence 53 ½ pence , for the Ducaton of Luca 50 pence , for the Ducat of Naples 50 ½ pence , for the Ducat of Lechy 51 pence , for the Ducat of Bary 57 ½ , for the Ducat of Palermo 56 ½ , for which Ducat of Messina one pound Sterling , for 34 ½ Shillings Flemish , with Antwerp and Collon 57 ½ pence , for the Ducat of Valentia 59 pence , for the Ducat of Saragosa 64 pence , for the Ducat of Barselona 59 ½ pence , for the Florin of Frankford 52 pence , for the Ducaton of Bergamo 53 ⅓ , for the Ducaton of Bolonia 53 ½ pence , and for the Ducat of Lisbon 53 ½ . And thus the currant Exchange is setled , and continues unless in times of War , when Princes to Inrich their Coffers , make an Inhaunsment upon the currant Coyns in their respective Dominions , and at other times when the Banker or Exchanger takes the advantage of the Parties necessity , upon whose Accounts the exchange is to be made . The Terms of paying Bills of exchange in London with other Cities , are commonly these . To Venice at 3 Months after date , and so upon return to Antwerp at one Month after date ; and so back to Genoa at 3 Months , and so back to Lyons for the Fair , and so from Fair to Fair as the Custom of that City is ; to Pisa at 3 Months after date , and so back to Placentia , from Fair to Fair according to the Custom of the place ; to Florence at 3 Months after date , & so upon return to Rouen and Paris at one Month after date , and so back ; and these Bills are currant money , insomuch that many Millions are pay'd by Bills without telling any money , Merchants passing the Bills to one another by assignment as currant Coyns , of which Bills their Presentations , Intimations , Acceptations , Protests , and Returns , I shall in the following Chapter , expose to the View of the Reader . CHAP. XCVIII . A Discourse of the Forms of Bills of Exchange , how they ought to be drawn , presented , payed or protested in default ; with a caution against delays , and the danger thereof , according to the Law and Custom of Merchants . A Bill of Exchange in it self is held so excellent a speciallity , and carries with it not only as it were a commanding Power to pay ; but is for the most part observed and satisfyed with all due regard , tho drawn by a Servant upon his Master , such a high esteem being ever had for the quality thereof , that nothing in the way of Trade can be more , for upon it depends the reputation of the Drawer & Accepter : So that those who fail in the payment of accepted Bills , wound their credit by suffering Protest to be made , which soon gets Wind and spreads wide upon the Exchange , and not only so but obliges the Acceptor to pay the char●●● of the Protestant return , and cal●s into question the credit of the drawer . Of bills of exchange there are two sorts , as 〈◊〉 and Inland , viz. the former drawn upon ● . Merchant Banker , &c. Living beyond the Seas , the second upon a Merchant Banker or other Person living in the same Country , tho distant from the place where the Bill is drawn ; as to make a Bill payable at London , for money taken up at Bristol ; each having equal force ought to have due observance alike . As to an Exchange , four , three or two Persons may make it thus , 2 at the place where the money is taken up , and 2 at the place were it is payable , first the deliverer , secondly the taket , thirdly the Person that is to take the money , and fourthly the party upon whom the Bill is drawn . 3 Persons thus , first the taker , secondly the deliverer , and thirdly the Person on whom the Bill is drawn . 2 Persons , first the Drawer , and secondly the Party on whom it is drawn , the former making his Bill payable to himself or order , which may of Exchange is very advantageous as well to Merchants as other Traders . There is another sort of Exchange called a dry exchange , which is practised thus , if a Person have occasion for 100 pound , he goes to a Banker who takes a Bill of Exchange of him to be payed at Lyons , or Paris at double or treble Usance ; tho the Drawer has no Correspondence in either of the Cities , then the Bill growing due , the Banker receives a Protest for non-payment , upon which the Drawer in London must pay the money with costs , which is a Trick to evade the Statute against Extortion . There is likewise a feigned Exchange which is thus , the Banker agrees to lend me money upon Bill of exchange payable at Amsterdam , yet between our selves it is payable here , which if I pay at the time appointed , I receive my discharge according to agreement , but if I make default , then the Banker Writes to his Friend at Amsterdam , who sends him a Bill of Exchange for the like Summ owing him here , so that I who borrowed the money , am obliged to pay the cost of the exchanges and other charges . Another Exchange there is called the petty Exchanges as thus , to exchange 20 Shilling in Silver , for 21 Shillings in Brass or Copper , which is the most inconsiderable . And thus much for the several sorts of Exchangs . CHAP. XCIX . Of the Pair in Exchange , and the Forms of English , Dutch , and French Bills of Exchange . THe Pair is nothing more then an Equalizing or reducing Coyns of several Kingdoms , to an equal value , let there be never so much difference in the Pieces , &c. By which means a Bill may be drawn to pay a just Summ in any place where Exchange is made , either by Tale or Weight , as from Middleburrough , Lisle , Rotterdam , and Amsterdam : For our pound Sterling is returned or exchanged 33 ½ Shillings Flemish , which make 10 Guilders at 2 Shillings Sterling ; each Guilder or 10 Livers Turnois , and so in other Countries , our Pence according to reckoning and Equality are exchanged . The Form of an English Inland Bill . Laus Deo in London , this 20 of March 1682 For 200 pound Sterling . At six Days sight , pay this my first Bill of Exchange to Mr. William D. or assigns . Two hundred pounds Sterling , for the value here Received of Mr. Richard W. Make good payment and put it to Account as by advice . To Mr. George L. Merchant d. d. Pma. in Bristol . Your loving Friend Samuel G. And so the second and third Bill , the first not pay'd , and if he that doth under-Write the Bill , doth make himself Debtor , then he under-Writes , And put it to my Account ; but if he ought to pay it then he Writeth , And put it to your Account ; and sometimes they Write , And put it to the Account of such a one , meaning him . The Form of an Outlandish Bill in English thus . Laus Deo in London . This 20 of December 1682. For 200 pound at 36 Shillings 8 pence Flemish per pound . At Usance pay this my first Bill of Exchange to Mr. Peter Vandrome M. or order 200 pound Sterling at 36 Shillings 8 pence Flemish per pound Sterling , for the value here received of Mr. James G. Make good payment , and put it to Account as per advice . To Mr. Richard L. Merchant d. d. Pma. in Rotterdam . Your loving Friend Charles B. And so the second and third at double or treble Usance , if the first be not pay'd , or if it be , so be it that the party to whom it is directed , owe the Drawer so much money as is required . The Form of a French Bill from Paris . A paris Juillet 1682 pour 350 🜄 a 52 pence Sterling p. 🜄 . A Double Vsance payez , per Caste , per Miere de Change a Mons'r Autwaine D Ou a son order trees Centz Escus a Cinquante deux deniers , Sterlins pour Escu Valleur recu de Monsieur Francivis G. & Passez compt Suivant l' advys de . Mounsieur Monsieur Paul B. Merchant . 〈◊〉 Londres . Vre tres humble Serviteur . Frances R. And so the second or third as aforesaid The Form of a Dutch Bill is thus . Rotterdam adi 28 November 1682. Voor 200 pound Sterling . Op uso betaelt desen myne Ersten Wisselbrief Aen Sr. Jan E. Ost order Hondret pouden Sterliuex , Valuta Van Sr. Robert L. Stelt op myn reckoning al 's per advys . Ersamen Sr. William G. Coopman . tot Pma. London . Martin R. If any Bill be negotiated by Exchange or the money taken in , and so to be Assigned over to another Man , the Assignment must be Written on the back side of the Bill thus . Pay the Contents on the other side hereof to Mr. James K. or Assigns for the value received of Mr. William G. London 6 November 1682. Arthur N. and if James K. do likewise Assign the same Bill for his account , then it requires to be Written only thus . Pay the contents hereof to Mr. Thomas L. And so in effect upon all Bills . CHAP. XCX. Several useful observations to be carefully noted , in the Management of Bills of Exchange . OBserve to note in your Book the Name of the place of aboad of the Person who presents the Bill , keep Coppies of the Bills sent to get accepted , make the direction of Bills on the inside , and all for the Reasons following . First by knowing the place of Aboad of him that presented the first Bill , he may be the better excused , if he except against the second Bill from the same Hand , before the first be satisfyed . Secondly by taking Copies of Bills sent to get acceptance , you may know how Exchanges go in all places , and at the same time to know without any great trouble , on whom you are to call for your money , and what Day . Thirdly to make the direction of Bills on the inside , will give larger Scope to Write this Assignment on the back side . 4ly . Every Person who receives a Bill to get it accepted , whether for himself or another must , tho some hold the contrary , present the said Bill in due time ; that the Person who is to accept it , may order his affairs accordingly , and not be surprized with the presentation of a Bill , just when it becomes due . 5ly . If a Bill be protested after acceptance , it does not clear the party who was faulty in non-payment , but renders him lyable to pay the charges ; and exposes him to an Action at Law , to which before he was not lyable , nor is the Drawer cleared , but obliged to see the Bill satisfyed . 6ly . Times of payment are according to the distance or Custom of the places , where the Bills are drawn , & were payable , as has before been briefly touched , as from London to Antwerp , Midelborrough , Rotterdam , Lysle , Rouen and Paris , at a Months Usance . 7ly It is dangerous to draw a Bill payable to the bearer , by Reason if a Bill should happen to be lost , any Person might bring it for acceptance or payment , therefore the safest way is to make it payable to a particular man , or his order ; for otherwise if it should be payed to the wrong party , and the Bill received , he on whom it is drawn , is not lyable to pay it again unless a Fraud be proved . 81y . A Bill of Exchange is held so Authentick , that it requires no witness , nor is it requisite that any Person unless the Person that receives it be present at the Writing thereof , or that any one be present , when the party who accepts it under-writes his name , for if any Person either Drawer or Subscriber should deny his Hand , it may be easiely proved by comparing his Letter or Books of Account , and if that be proved his credit is inevitably ruined . 9ly . If you receive an Outland Bill present it presently , and if it be refused protest without delay , and send it back to the Drawer with Protest , which will be for the advantage of both . Twenty four Hours is the longest time , that you are obliged to give any Merchant to consider whether he will or not , and after that , it is at your pleasure whether you will protest or give longer time , and after protest advice ought to be given to the Drawer by the first Post . 10. If a Bill be drawn on two Persons , and not to them or either of them , but joyntly , yet if one do accept it and the other refuse it the Bill ought to be protested . 11. If a Bill be presented to any Person , and he by word of mouth , desires it may be left in his Hands , and does Verbally accept it , altho he afterwards refuse to Subscribe it , yet such an acceptance is valid , and he may be Sued upon due Protest , tho Protest must not be made till the money becomes due . 12. If a man accept a Bill for part and not for the whole , alledging he has no more in his Hands ; the Person to whom the money is payable , may receive the part and give an acquittance for so much as he receives , but must enter Protest for non-payment of the rest , and send it away as soon as the party refuses to accept for the whole . 13. The Drawer is Master of the Bill till it becomes due , and may Countermand it by sending an Express to the party , who has accepted it not to pay it without further order , which order must be made , and passed before a publick Notary , and notifyed to the party that hath accepted the Bill , but if the money be pay'd it is past recovery . 14. A Bill of Exchange may be pay'd at Usance single , double or treble , that is length of time according to the quality of the Person ; the occasion or difficulty of passage by Reason of different Seasons , but general Usance is accounted a Month from the Date of the Bill , each month tho different in number of Days being accounted , the Month required on that occasion . 15. A Bill payable at Days sight , is from the Day after it is accepted , else Protest ought to be made . If an accepted Bill be lost , yet it will not Bar the payment , but may be Sued for as if the Bill were in being , nor is the party who accepted it bound to pay a second Bill , before the first be discharged , unless the second Bill be directed to the party who lost the Former in lieu thereof . 16. When a Bill is accepted , there is no revoking it , but it must be either payed or Protested ; tho sometimes it happens that the Acceptor and the Party to whom the Bill is payable , do conclude upon longer time then the Bill specifies , or to take it by Parcels ; yet if he doubt the honesty of the Acceptor , the Presentor must nowithstanding make Protest , or the Acceptor may refuse further payment , and yet not lye lyable to be Sued . 17. If a Bill be directed to a party , and he be out of Town , not leaving any Warrant of Attorney , to impower his Wife or Servants to accept it ; and another Merchant to support the Drawers credit , will accept and pay it , yet Protest must be made against the party on whom it was drawn for non-acceptance . 18. In some cases half Usance is allowed , especially in Inland Bills , which is accounted 15 Days . Note that all Bills must be Protested 3 Days after they become due , it being dangerous to exceed that time , altho one of the Days happened on a Sunday , yet tho the 3 Days are expired , 't is not at all unnecessary to Protest . 19. Bills payable at a fixed Day , are not meant one , and the same Day if they come from any place where the new Style is practised , because the old and new admits of ten Days difference . As for Example , if a Bill be dated new Style payable on the 10 of March , it is not payable till the 10 of March old Style , which is the 20th . of March new Style . 20. A Wife or a Servant cannot accept a Bill of Exchange , unless the Husband or Master impower them by a Warrant of Attorney so to do , or that formerly they have accepted Bills with his good liking , and by him discharged . 21. If a party on whom a Bill is drawn , live at a distant City or place of Exchange , from him that is to receive the money , he must go himself or send the Bill down to some Friend to get it accepted , which if not accepted , Protest must be entered , if it be a place of Exchange , or by the help of a Letter of such refusal , from the Friend who endeavoured to get it accepted , Protest may be made at London , tho the party live at Southampton , but if accepted and your Bill returned when it becomes due , if it be made payable at london , you must expect there your money , or enter Protest for non-payment . 22. If a Merchant that accepted a Bill prove non-Solvent , and absent himself from the Exchange ; you must before the Bill be due , cause demand to be made by a Notary for better Security , and in default thereof cause Protest to be made , and send away the Protest by the next Post to the Drawer of the Bill , who must defray the charges of such Protest , and all Protests must be made between Sun and Sun , that is , between Sun Rising and Sun Setting ; other Hours being accounted unseasonable , and held amongst Merchants Illegal . 23. If a Protest be returned to the Drawer or Indorser , he must get an able man to under-write the Protest , and oblige himself to make speedy payment with Costs and Rechange , but if the Protest be returned for want of payment , and you have had Security already upon the Protest for non-acceptance or want of better Security , then upon receipt of your Protest ●or non-payment , you may only acquaint the Drawer or party that took up the money , and tarry out the proportion of time , at which the Bill was made payable , to be accounted from the time it fell due , before you demand your Principal money , with the Rechange and charges of the party who drew the Bill or his Security , which according to the Law of Merchants , they are bound to satisfy either joyntly or severally . 24. When you have an accepted Bill protested for want of payment , keep the Bill , but send away the Protest , by which means the money is recoverable of the Drawer . 25. If a Bill be delivered to a party to be accepted , and yet by the carelesness or otherwise of the party that received it in order to accept be Lost , then must he who brought it demand a note under the Hand and Seal of the Merchant , &c. who received the Bill for the payment of the money , at the Day specifyed in the Bill , upon a second Bill if it come to hand , or if not upon the note it self , and if such note be refused to be given , then the party who should receive the money upon the lost Bill , must enter protest and send it away , and when the money becomes due upon the lost Bill , he must make demand of it , and for non-payment enter Protest a second time , and send it away , or if he have a note , yet if it be not payed at the time therein limited , he must Protest as upon a Bill of Exchange . 26. If a Person send a Bill to a Friend of his to get it accepted , tho drawn upon no particular Person , but a Blanck left to put in the parties Name that will accept it , it is according to the Law of Merchants sufficient . 27. If a Bill be drawn by one Merchant upon another , upon the account of a third man ; he upon whom it is drawn has liberty to chuse whether he will accept it upon the account of the third Person , or on his account who drew it ; but then he must go before a Publick Notary , and declare his intent , of which the Notary must make an Act indue Form to be sent away to the party whom it concerns ; and he must also cause an Act to be made for payment thereof when it becomes due , declaring that he will pay it for the Honour of the Drawer , but upon no other account then is the Drawer accountable to him for the Summ specifyed in the Bill . 28. If a Bill be drawn upon a Merchant , who after acceptance for want of money , or otherwise fails to pay it when due , another Merchant for the Honour of the Drawer may pay the Bill , yet Protest must be made against him that made default , and sent away , and the safest way in that case is to have the receipt for discharge of the Bill Written under the Protest , and to keep the accepted Bill as an Evidence against him who failed in the payment thereof . 29. If a party dye between the time of acceptance , and the time money becomes due upon a Bill , you must go to the place of his last aboad , when the money becomes due , and demand it of the Executors , and if payment be refused , you must Protest as you would have done if the party were living . 30. If the party dye to whom a Bill is payable before it become due , altho the Will be not proved , nor Letters of Administration taken out , yet you must demand the money when due , offering at the same time Security to save the Payer harmless from the Executors or Administrators , and if upon such offer payment is refused , you must Protest for non-payment . 31. If a Bill be drawn upon a Person , and upon inquiry no such Person can be found , you must have your Bill Protested in due Form. 32. If when you go to get your Bill accepted , no Person can accept it be at home , and that at 2 or 3 goings , you must enter Protest , either for non-acceptance or non-payment ; either at his dwelling House or Lodging in his absence , which according to the Law of the Merchants is sufficient , for he ought at Seasonable times to attend his own business , for there is no avoiding Protest , whether absent or present . 33. If the Figures and words at Length in a Bill of Exchange disagree , then you ought to be guided by the words at Length and not by the Figures . 34. If a Name be mended or words interlined , and the Bill be accepted , tho it is a foul fault in the Drawer , yet it is not an excuse sufficient for the Acceptor to refuse payment , but if the party who accepted alledge that it has been mended , or interlined since he accepted , he must prove it , the which if he do he may refuse payment , till a second Bill comes to Hand . 35. If a Bill be made payable Positively to a Person by name , then an Assignment will not be available ; for it must be the very man spec●fyed to whom the Bill must be pay'd , lest by paying to a wrong party , you are obliged to pay it again in your own wrong . 36. If a Bill come to any party to get it accepted , and by an oversight it be not directed to any Person by name , yet in the Letter of credit , the party to whom it was intended be mentioned ; then must it be presented in order to its being accepted , and if the party for want of his name on the Bill refuse to accept it , then Protest must be made for the Drawers Omission ; and he is lyable to pay the charges . 37. If a Bill be accepted , and protested for non-payment , yet if the Drawer do satisfy the contents of the Bill , he that accepted the Bill is discharged , as to the party to whom the Bill was due , but must nevertheless stand ingaged to the Drawer ; and if a Bill be by one Person Assigned over to another , if the first Person be satisfyed , the Bill becomes useless , nor can it by Law be recovered . And thus much for Bills of Exchange , and now I shall only proceed , to give the Reader an insight into the nature of Letters of Credence , and so conclude this one great and necessary part of Merchants affaires . CHAP. CXI . Of Letters of credit , and to what intent they are drawn . THere are divers sorts of Letters , that pass between Merchants and Merchants , or Merchants and their Factors . As Letters of Commission for buying and selling , Letters of advice , Letters of Fraight , and Letters of Credit ; the latter of which are properly such as are Written to furnish monies by Exchange , upon the credit of him that Writes them , so that by virtue of the Letter or Letters so Written , the Merchant or Banker that Writes the Letter or Letters , are bound as firmly , as if they had given Bond to satisfy by Bill of Exchange ; or otherwise any Summ or Summs of money , taken upon them by those Persons specifyed therein . And these Letters are two sorts , the one General and the other special . The first is when I Write my open Letter to all Merchants , &c. who shall Furnish such and such Persons upon my Letter of credit , wherein I do bind my self , that what Monies shall be delivered unto such and such parties therein specifyed , within the time limited at such and such rates , or as the Exchange is currant ; I will repay by Bills of Exchange or otherwise : and if any one should refuse to pay Bills for monies received upon his Letters of credit , yet those Letters being produced , and proved to be his , are as binding as Hand and Seal , and stand as good in Law. The special Letter of credit , is directed to a peculiar Person , and is of force equal with the former ; as for the Forms of the General Letters of credit , they are various and sutable to the occasion of the Writer , but the form of a special or particular Letter of credit may run thus . Laus Deo in Bristol 20 of February 1683. Mr. James D. Sr. My last unto you was of the 10th . of December , wherein I Wrote to you what was needful , in answer unto yours of the 4th . of the same Month ; this serves chiefly to desire you to furnish and pay unto Mr. W. B. English Gentleman , to the value of 3000 Crowns , at one or more times , according as he shall have occasion , or desire the same of you ; taking his Receipt or Bills of Exchange for the monies , which you shall so furnish him with , and put it to my Account , and this my Letter of Credit shall be your sufficient Warrant for so doing . Vale. To Mr. Charles G. Merchant . at Lyons . yours Timothy L. And thus I shall conclude my discourse of Exchanges ; only by the way , note there is in use the old Style and new Style , the former being only practised or held in England , and other his Majesties of Great Brittains Dominions , in Hamburg , Strasbourg , and some other parts of Germany ; and the latter in all other parts of Christendom . CHAP. CXII . A Survey of the Customs , commonly called Tonnage upon Wines of the Growth of France , Germany , Spain , Portugal , &c. also upon Beer , Perry , Cider , Vinegar , Rape , &c. together with the nature of such Customs or Tonnage , declaring where they are due and where not . THe Wisdom of the Nation assembled in Parliament Anno 1660 , having taken into their consideration the condition of Merchants Trading into Forrain parts , that they were frequently Robbed , and spoiled by Pirates and Picaroons , and Ships of War of divers Nations , under pretence of Letters of Reprizal . They the better to prevent such outrages , thought it convenient to Grant his Majesty a Subsidy of Tonnage and Poundage , payable upon all Merchandise imported or exported , unless Herrings and some other Fish therein excepted . The better to inable his Majesty to maintain at Sea several Ships of War , for the securing and convoying Merchants Ships to and from the divers Ports and Places , whither they are bound or have any Commerce , and to over-awe and keep under such Pirates and others , as would otherwise grow numerous , and obstruct all Naval Commerce , the Principal Commodities paying Tonnage and Poundage , commonly called Customs . I shall here recite , and for the rest , refer the Reader to the Book of Rates , rated by the advice and approbation of most of the eminent Merchants of England ; and since published and confirmed by Parliament . As for Tonnage every Tun of Wine of the Growth of the French King or Crow● of France , that shall come into the Port of London or the Members thereof by way of Merchandise ; being the proper Goods of a natural Born Subject , pays eight pounds 10 Shillings the Tun ; or being the proper Goods of an Alien or Stranger , it pays 10 pound , and so lesser or greater quantities proportionably ; but into any other Port of England , the Native pays 20 Shillings less , and the Stranger the like per Tun. Muscadels , Malmasies , Cutes , Tents , Alicans , Bastards Sacks , Canaries , Mallagoes , Maderoes , and other Wines ; of the Growth of Levant , Spain or Portugal , or any of the Islands or Dominions belonging to them , or any of them which shall be brought into the Port of London , as Merchandise , &c. by a Native , shall pay the Summ of 7 pound 10 Shillings the Tun , a Stranger nine pound , and into any other of his Majesties Ports 20 Shillings less , the Pipe or Butt , by either Native or Alien , for Rhenish Wine of the Growth of Germany ; also note that always the Stranger pays 30 Shillings in the Tun more then the Native is to pay , the Ancient duty of Butlerage which is 2 Shillings in the Tun ; and in these Duties or Customs is included , the Duty formerly of 20 Shillings per Tun , upon all Wines of the Growth of the Levant , by Strangers known by the name of Southampton Duties , for which sort of Wines the Stranger is to pay to the use of the Town of Southampton , 10 Shillings for every Butt or Pipe , as for prize Wines they pay no Customs . Note that if any Wines be imported , and within a twelve month exported ; they are not lyable to pay the Additional Duty , or if it be pay'd it is to be returned , viz. 4 pound every Tun of French Wine , and every Tun of Wine of the Growth of Germany or Madera , 3 pound brought into the Port of London , as in Statute 12 of Car. 2 , it more at large appears . And all such Wines as are Landed at any of the out-Ports , and afterwards brought into the Port of London by a certificate , shall pay so much more Custom as was pay'd short of the Duty in the Port of London . For every Tun of Beer to be exported in Ships , English built , must be pay'd 2 Shillings , and for every Tun exported in any other Ship 6 Shillings . If at any time there shall chance Goods to be exported or imported , not mentioned in the Book of Rates , agreed on by the commons , Intitled the rates of Merchandise , and that by such omission there is no set value on them , then it shall be Lawful for the Customer in being to levy twelve pence in the pound , upon such Goods according to the true value : which value is to be given by the Merchant or owner upon Oath , before the Customer , Collector , Comptroller , Surveyer , or any two of them . If Vineger , Perry , Rape , Cider , or Cider-Eager , be imported by a Native from Forrain Parts , he pays 6 pound 10 Shillings the Tun , but by an Alien only 6 pound , but if they shall again export any such Liquids , then 3 pound 10 Shillings the Tun shall be repayed to the Native , and 4 pound 15 Shillings to the Alien . There is likewise imposed on Wines , Vineager , Cider and Beer 10 Shillings per Tun , and on Brandy and Strong-Water 20 Shillings per Tun. For Coynage-Duty , and the money that arises by this Duty , is to be payed at the Custom-House , to the Collectors and other Officers , to be by them kept apart from other monies ; and payed quarterly into the Exchequer without Salary or Fee , and if neglect be made in the payment of this Duty , the Goods are Forfeitable ; but note if that within a twelve-month , they are Transported , then the money so pay'd is to be returned according to Statute the 18 of Car. 2. There is likewise an Excise or Impost upon Forrain Liquors imported , viz. upon Beer or Ale , six Shillings the Barrel , Cyder or Perry the Tun 10 Shillings , Brandy or Strong-Waters perfectly made 8 pence the Gallon , and by the 15 of Car. 2 , if any of these Goods be Landed before these Duties are payed , Warrant Signed , and in the absence of the Officer , they are forfeitable . And thus much for Tonnage , the next thing then that I come to Treat of is Poundage . CHAP. CXIII . A Survey of the Custom commonly called Poundage , according to the Book of Rates , and such other Customs and Priviledges , as are for the profit of the Merchant . POundage is a Custom Established by Act of Parliament made in the 12 of his now Majesty , whereby the Book of Rate called the Rates of Merchandise , is approved and confirmed , that is a Subsidy granted to his Majesty of the 20 part of all Goods imported or exported , viz. 1 Shilling in the pound , according as they are Rated in the said Book , and for Goods not found Rated in the aforesaid Book , according to the value Sworn to by the Merchant , as it is mentioned in the foregoing Chapter . As likewise a Subsidy of Woollen Cloaths or old Drapery ; agreed on by the Commons-House in Parliament , assembled and Signed by the Hand of their Speaker , an account of which take as followeth . Every Native shall pay for each short Cloath containing in Length not above 28 Yards , and in Weight not exceeding 64 pound , White or Coloured , by him to be Shipped or carryed out of the Kingdom , 3 Shillings 4 pence , being after the Rate of 2 Farthings ½ Farthing the pound Weight , and after the same Rate for all other sorts of Cloath of greater Length and Weight , not allowing above 28 Yards , and 60 pound to a short Cloath , viz. for every pound Weight over and above 64. pound 2 Farthings and ½ Farthings , and for all other lesser Cloaths to be allowed to the short Cloath ; but note if a Stranger do export any short Cloath containing 28 Yards , and in Weight not exceeding 64 pound , either White or Coloured , he shall pay 6 Shillings 8 pence , besides the old Duty of one Shilling 2 pence , and after the same Rate for all short Cloaths , and Cloaths of greater Length and Weight ; for a description of the several sorts of which , I refer you to my Observations upon Woolen Manufactory , in the 11 and 12 Chapters of this Treatise . Salt out of Scotland into England pays a ½ penny the Gallon , all Logwood imported pays 5 pound the Tun. The Parliament taking care that Ships of force should be imployed by Merchants , have imposed on all Merchandise imported or exported , from and to the Mediterranean Sea beyond Malaga , in any Ship not having 2 Decks and 16 Guns , allowing two men to each Gun , for such default one per cent . on all Merchandise that contrary to the express words of the Act , shall be imported or exported , Ships laden or half laden with Fish only excepted . There are likewise divers Duties payable Aliens for Goods imported in Aliens Ships , commonly called Navigation Duties , by the Act of Navigation made in the 12 of Car. 2. And note that in all cases where Petty Custom inwards is payable , it is understood of the fourth part of a Subsidy , according to the Book of Rates of 5 pound per cent . and is called Parva Customa , granted to King Edward the first ; the Merchants Strangers agreeing to pay to him and his Heirs 3 pence in the pound , for every pounds worth of Goods , imported or exported . There is another Custom called the Aliens Custom , for all Fish , Oyl , Blubber , Whale-Bone or Whale-Fins , not being caught in Vessels of which the English are Proprietors ; they are to pay double Custom . There is likewise an Impost to be payed for several sorts of Salt-Fish or dryed Fish , not imported in English Vessels belonging to English Proprietors , or not having been taken in such , as appears at large in the Statute of the 15 of Car. 2 , intitled an Act of Trade . Likewise all sorts of Forrain Coyn , or Bullion of Gold or Silver , may be exported without paying any Duty or Fee for the same , entry being first made at the Custom-House , as also Precious Stones and Pearls of all sorts . Any Person may import from any part beyond the Sea in English Ships , Cinnamon , Cloves , Nutmegs , Mace , &c. into England , Wales , Guernsey , Jersey , &c. paying the Customs always , provided they before the lading thereof , give notice to the Commissioners or Farmers of the Customs , how much they intend to lade , and the name of the Vessel in which they design to import it , and procure a Licence under their Hands , or any 3 of them , if Goods are Wrecked and the Lord Seises them , yet they ought not to pay Custom , unless in some Extraordinary cases . Upon the exporting and importing of most Commodities , Fees are claimed over and above Custom . In the Port of London , the Members and Creeks thereunto belonging , viz. to the Officers of the Petty Custom outwards of the Subsidy outwards , Petty Customs inwards Subsidies inward , great Customs , Clarks Fees , inwards and outwards the Kings Waiters being 18 in number . The Register of the Kings Warrants . The Usher of the Custom-House . The Saugers of French Vessels chief Searcher , and the Kings 5 under-Searchers in the Port of London , and his 2 Searchers in the Port of Graves-End , were likewise entered in a Table which was setled and allowed of by the Commons Assembled in Parliament , and signed by their Speaker ; at which time the Question being put , that for all such Goods as payed not one pound Custom inwards or outwards , there should be but half Fees taken for Cocquets , Debentures , Warrants , Fransieres , Certificates , &c. and it was resolved Affirmatively . Societies or Companies that Trade in one Joynt-Stock , and make but one Single-Entery , tho the Adventurers are many , yet the Fees do not hinder , but the Officers and Weighers may receive such Gratuities , as the Master or Merchants will allow them out of their free Will. All Goods valued in the Book of Rates at 5 pounds , and paying Subsidy but 5 Shillings , or under , shall pay no Fees. If any English Merchant shall Land Goods out of one Ship into another ( altho the Receipt of the Subsidies be distributed into several Offices ) yet he shall pay but for a Single-Entry . The Goods appertaining to Partners , are to pass as if they appertained to one single Person . Fish taken by the English men in English Bottoms , whether inward or outward pay no Fees. Post-Entries under 5 Shillings inward pass without Fees , but if above 5 Shillings and 40 Shillings , then pay 6 pence , but exceeding 40 Shillings then full Fees. The Merchant for all Goods that are opened , and not entered above 10 Shillings Custom shall pay Fees ; he shall likewise pay for weighing all Goods short entered above 20 Shillings Custom , but if duly entered , then he is to be at no charge . Note that the Merchant is to be allowed for Tare , viz. abated in the Customs ; which Tare upon all Commodities to which it is allowable is setled by the Customers , and fixed in a Table not to be any ways altered , without the consent and appointment of the Commissioners-Farmers , such under-Officers as they shall impower , as the General Surveyers of the Ware-House , &c. And thus much shall Suffice as to Customs and order of Fees upon the Subsidy of Poundage ; untill I come to speak somewhat more of the Priviledges and Customs of the City of London ; and now I shall proceed to give the Reader an insight into the nature of Policies of Assurance , now greatly in Request amongst Merchants . CHAP. CXIV . Of Policies of assurance , their Original , their Legality , Nature , Quality , and of the great Incouragement they give to Navigation , &c. MOst are of opinion that this way of insuring , was first invented by the Romans , and Suetonius will have it that Claudius Caesar was the first contriver thereof , and by that means so incouraged Merchants , that they ventured into the till then supposed innavigable Seas ; proposing to themselves that if they escaped with their Lives , tho both Ships and Goods were lost , they should not be much indammaged . All assurances are either Publick or Private , the first are those that are entered in the Office or Court of Assurance , for the Conveniency of Merchants kept upon the Royal Exchange in London ; where any one may have knowledge of what Cargo is insured and of the Premio . The last is in Private between man and man , and not entered in the Office , and are of equal Validity at common Law , but by the Statute of the 43 of Elizabeth , only those that are entered in the Court of Assurance can be tryed and determined there , the other being left to the common Law only . These Assurances are divers of sorts , some being made for places general , others certain ; those upon certain places or Ports are made upon Goods laden , which if they miscarry before they are safely Landed at the place agreed on , the Insurer must make good as far as he has insured , but upon certain notice of their safe Arrival , he may demand the Premio agreed on , and the Policy is then void , and the like upon Goods inward bound , or according as the Merchant and Insurer can agree . A General Ansurance is when a Ship goes a Trading Voyage , taking in at one Port and vending at another ; so that the Insurer is lyable to any damage she sustains till she returns in safety to the Port from whence She sets out , that is in her Cargo only , unless the Ship and her Appurtenances are insured , which are frequently included , tho then the Premio runs higher . Goods sent by Land may likewise be insured , tho that seldom happens ; or if any Person fears being taken by the Turks or Moors , he may insure his Person of a certain Premio , and then if he be taken , the insurer is obliged to Ransom him : that is , pay so much money as is insured , sometimes the Assurers insert in their Policies lost or not lost , that is , when Ships have been a long time abroad , and no advice of their being in any Port , but then the Premio runs high as 30 , 40 , and sometimes more per cent . for if the Ship be lost at the time the Policy is Subscribed , yet so much as is insured must be made good , but then it must be contrary to the knowledge of him that insures , or otherwise it will be accounted a Fraud . If any Person assures a Rotten Vessel for more then She is worth , and then going out of the Port or Harbour , She Privately causes to be Wrecked or Sunk , if it can be proved it is a Defraud , and he who Subscribed the Policy , is not bound to make satisfaction , but it is observed of late that seldom any one Person will insure a whole Ship ; but Subscribe 50 pound , 100 pound or more at a certain Premio , currant at the time of assuring ; which when the adventure is Born they receive ; but if a loss happens , the Premio is deducted together with the usual Abatements ; so that the insured seldom receives more then 80 pound in the 100 pound , and many now adays are so adventurous , that they will ensure against Heaven and Earth ; Stress of Weather , Storms , Enemies , Pirates , Rovers , and all other Casualties . If a Merchant ensures a Ship , he only names in the Policy of such a Burthen , then if She be lost the Insurers are bound to make the Ship only good , and not the Wares : If the Wares be insured it matters not whether each particular is mentioned in the Policy , but in general upon the chief Commodities , and all other Commodities laden or to be laden for the ensured . If a Ship be Ensured and take Fire ' ere She break Ground , the Assurers in such a case are not lyable to make Restitution , unless the words be in the Policy at such a Port , or from such a Port , unless She had first broken Ground , and had been forced back again by Storm . If a Ship be Ensured and prove Leaky , and the Master for preservation of the Cargo , lade it into another Ship , and that Ship be lost , the Ensurer is not bound to make the Cargo good , unless in the Policy it is mentioned , untill the Goods by the said Ship or any other should be safely Landed at such a place , naming it . It is held that if a Person Ensure more Goods then he has on Board , and several Persons Subscribed the Policy , yet the first Subscribers are only bound to pay the loss if they miscarry , and those that Subscribed over and above the value of the Goods , remitting their Premio 10 Shillings per cent . reducted for their Subscriptions are discharged : If a Cargo be Ensured to such a Port there safely to be unladed , and her Cargo is sold on Board , the Property being altered , if the Ship afterwards miscarry , the Ensurer is not obliged to make it good , if the buyer agrees for the Fraight to be carryed to any other Port. If Goods be Ensured , and the Ensured contrary to the knowledge of the Ensurer , Lades prohibited Goods , by which the Ship may become forfeited , then the Ensurer is not lyable to make good the Cargo , unless after the lading of such Goods they are prohibited . If any Goods be damaged in the Ship by neglect of the Master or Mariners , the Ensurer is not bound to make Satisfaction . And further 't is always expedient to prevent differences that may arise between the Ensurer and the Ensured , that the Bills of lading consist of three parts , one to be sent over Sea , the other left with the Master , and the last with the Lader . This Office or Court of assurance , was erected by the Statute of the 43 of Elizabeth , Chap. 12 , whereby the Judges or Commissioners appointed to determine differences arising , were the Judges of the Court of Admiralty , the Recorder of London , two Doctors of the Civil Law , two Barristers , eight discreet Merchants or any five of them , and that they or the Major part , should have Power to hear , examine , order or decree all such causes in a Summary way , without pleading or expence , and to have Power to Summon Parties to Examine upon Oath , commit to Prison upon disobedience , or the like ; but this way being found tedious , because so many parties as made a Court , were not at all times to be Convened , it was taken into consideration , and in the 12 of Car. 2 Chap. 23 Enacted that 3 Commissioners should make the Court viz. a Doctor of the Civil Law , a Barrister of 5 Years standing , and a Merchant , &c. who have Power to Act in all cases , after their being Sworn before the Lord Major ; and if the Witness refuse to come upon the first Summons , and tender of reasonable charges , upon the second Summons they may imprison them for such their contempt , or give costs , and commonly differences come to an Issue in a Fortnight , their proceedings being as well out of Term-time as it . The Judgments are there given upon mature deliberation , by Persons well Skilled in Marine affairs ; and if the Sentence be supposed unreasonable , then the Lord Chancellor or Lord Keeper , may upon an appeal determine the same ; tho no appeal from thence can lye before the whole money is deposited , and the full cost payed to the appelled . So that it prevents the trouble of taking up the Party by Execution , against whom the Decree has passed , and a further advantage is , they may in this Court decree against 20 Ensurers at once , which at common Law must be Sued distinctly , tho the Execution cannot lye against Body and Goods , but against either as at Common Law. And lastly if a private Policy of assurance , be lost , and no Entery be found , it is like a Burnt Deed , unless strong Evidence be produced ; as likewise a Copy of the same : but if it be a Publick Policy , then the Entery is sufficient Testimony for this Court to take Cognizance of . CHAP. CXV . The Original of the word Bottomery , and the Signification thereof , together with the Commodity and Discommodity accruing thereby . FOenus Nauticum or Bottomery , is by the Dutch called Bomery , Bodmery , or Boddemerii ; from the Keel or Bottom of a Ship , the Part being taken for the Whole , and was called by the Ancient Britains Bodo or Bodun , the bottom of a Ship , Signifying the bottom or the Cargo therein contained , the which as Land is mortgaged for certain Sums of Money taken up thereon , and is bound to satisfy the same at return , with such interest as is agreed on the Statute of usury , in that case being excluded by Reason of the Hazard the Lender runs ; for in many cases money is taken up thus . I lend 100 pound upon a Ship , to receive 150 if the Ship arrives safe at such a Port , but if She chance to Miscarry , my money is lost , and many times Masters of Ships could not set out , if they did not in this nature take up Monies ; for which themselves , their Ship or Cargo become Pledges ; but some Persons have taken hold of this occasion to Bar the Statute of usury : thus they get the Party to feign he has a Ship bound for Amsterdam or any such Port , making a special obligation to pay the money again at so much per cent . at a reasonable time Granted for the return of the Ship ; and if She do not in that time return the money to be pay'd notwithstanding , but certain it is if a Person have 500 or 1000 pound lying by him , and knows of an ingenious Merchant or Master of a Ship , who is fitting out for a Voyage , and is Slenderly stocked , and he lends him this money to buy such Commodities as will vend in the places whither he is bound , running the Risque to have nothing , if the Ship miscarry , and 30 per cent . Interest , if She return safe , it is altogether as profitable for the merchant as Master ; as to take up money at Brokerage , and to Ensure his Ship or Cargo . And if the Merchant or Master makes double return of the said money he gets sufficiently , as well as the Venturer , and this cannot be accounted usury . There is yet another way both profitable and Honourable , as thus , suppose a Person puts a stock into the Hands of a Company or Society , which is termed a perpetual stock , the Principal being never to be recalled , tho it may be often sold for good advantage , but he that put it in or buys it receives still his dividend , which produces sometimes twenty and sometimes more per cent . and the Hazard only is if the proportion of the stock that goes out be lost , he must abate , unless by remitting the dividend he will keep up the stock . And 100 pound in the East-India Company has been of late sold at 180 or 190 pound . CHAP. CXVI . Of the Rights and Priviledges of Owners , and Proprietors of Ships , according to the Laws Marine and Common , together with divers Rules to be observed by such as are Partners in Ships , fitted out upon Fraight or otherwise . IF there be several Partners , or Owners of a Vessel , and one refuses to Furnish her out , according to his proportion , or to suffer her to go the Voyage intended by the other , he must sell his part , the which if he refuse to do or to set a price thereon , the other Partners may set her out , and refuse to let him have any part of the profit accruing thereby ; only if the Ship be lost , they must make good his part according as it shall be valued ; but if it happen the Major part of such Owners refuse to set out any such Vessel , wherein they have equal propriety , they cannot be compelled , but then such Vessel is to be valued and sold , and the like where any of the partners prove deficient or unable to set her forth . The Master is to be chosen by the Owners , and so he had need , for they are lyable to the Merchants for all dammages , he or his Marriners shall suffer or cause to be done in any Port , Haven , or on the main Ocean ; both by the Law Marine and common Law of England , and they must sue the Master for reparation . If a Ship be broken up with an intent to convert her Timber to other uses , and then the parties mind alter , and they will have her rebuilt with the same ; the property by that means is altered , and the Partnership dissolved : If a man take Planks of another mans to mend his Ship , yet the property remains in the owner ; but if a man take Timber designed to Build a Ship , and build a Ship , the property of the Ship shall remain in him whose Timber it was , and not in the Builder : But if the Timber was not designed for the Building a Ship , it is otherwise ; if a Master of a Ship take up monies for refitting or victualling his Ship , & there be occasion for so doing , the owners must pay it , but if there be no occasion , they are not bound so to do . If a man gets possession of a Ship , having no Title thereto by the Law Marine , he shall pay dammages ; such as shall be proved to be sustained by the unjust detaining of it from the right owner . If a Ship is Fraighed out , and in any Port an Imbargo is lay'd thereon , it Bars not the Owners from the Recovery of their contract for Fraight : If any one shall be killed by a fall on Shipboard , in a fresh River , being within the Body of a County , the Ship is accounted a Deodand , and becomes Seisable , tho in such cases it is not strictly observed ; but if any one fall and be killed on the Ocean , it is otherwise , for there by Reason of storms or the like , it is supposed such Accidents cannot be avoided . CHAP. CXVII . Vseful Instructions to be observed by all Masters of Ships , in the Management of their affairs , and the preventing the Penalties they may incur through Ignorance , &c. IF a Master of a Ship be intrusted with Goods , and they be imbeselled either in Port or upon the main Ocean , he 's Responsible to the Owners or Merchant , and must make them good ; nay if a Ship be Fired by carelessness , the Master lies lyable to make both the Ship and Fraight good , nay tho Goods sustain any other dammage , by the neglect of the Master , he is bound to make them good , for he is Exercitor Navis , and is either by the Marine and common Law , lyable to answer for the neglect or Misdemeanour of his Mariners ; but if a Ship be taken by an Enemy , founder , or be lost in a Storm , the Master is not lyable to make satisfaction . If a Master send off his Boat to receive Goods at a Wharf , and they be imbeselled , he must make them good . If a Master lades Goods on Board any of the Kings Enemies Ships , tho his own be Leaky , and by that means such Goods are seised , he becomes lyable to make satisfaction to the Owner , nor at his Peril ought he unknown to the Merchant or owners to Ship prohibited Goods ; and if when he is home-ward laden , he enter or lye by in any Creek , unless driven in by Tempest , and by that means the Cargo becomes Seisable , he shall answer it to the Owner , by Reason he ought to have entered one of his Majesties great Ports ; nor must he Sail with false Colours , carry false Cocquets or other Papers , for if by such means the Goods are involved in Trouble , lost , or the like , he lies lyable to make Restitution . He must not lade the Ship above the Birth-mark , set Sail with insufficient Rigging , stay in a Port , unless upon an extraordinary occasion , if the Wind stands fair for his prosecuting his Voyage , unless it be Tempestuous Weather ; or refuse in any Port to pay due Custom , by which any damage may befall the Merchant or Owners , upon pain of his making satisfaction for the same : if he sends Goods to a Wharf in close Lighters , and send his Mariners to watch them ; then if they be imbezled , he is bound to make them good , but on the contrary the Wharfenger must be accomptible . If when a Master brings a Ship into any Port , and through his neglect She suffers damage , he is lyable to answer for it . A Master may sell or impawn part of the lading for money , to mend on refit the Ship , if She be in any danger , but may not do it to defray any charges of his own : no Master is to import or export any Commodities from any of his Majesties Plantations , but in English or Irish bottoms , or bottoms belonging to the Natives of those Plantations , and that in such a case , the 3 Fourths of the Mariners be likewise English upon pain of Forfeiting the Ship and Goods . These and many Obligations are binding upon a Master , both by the Laws-Marine , and Common . The Mariners being accountable to the Master , the Master to the Owners , and the Owners to the Merchant , for all damages sustained by neglect of their respective duties or Breach of contract . CHAP. CXVII . Of Fraight and Charter part , according to the Laws , Common , and Marine , with useful observations thereon . FRaight is commonly agreed on between the owners and the Merchant , by a Writing of Charter-party , wherein are concluded the particulars of the contract ; and if there be no such Writing but only earnest given , then if the Merchant recant 't is held by some , nay and often observed that he only loses his earnest , and that if the owners recant they lose double earnest ; tho many learned in the Law are of opinion , that an Action for dammage , if any be sustained by such revocation will lye ; if a Merchant should hire a Vessel , and not have his Goods ready at the time appointed , and the Vessel lose the Season of the Passage , or a Ship hired be unfiting to Sail , so that the Merchant must either lose the passage of his Goods , or lade them on another Vessel , dammage may be recovered by an Action at common Law. If a contract be made to such a Port , the Fraight full laden , and the Ship has broke Ground ; altho the Merchant revoke his intentions , yet the Fraight is by the Law Marine due . If in a Voyage a Ship without the neglect of the Master be disabled , he may lade the Goods on Board another Vessel , and if that Vessel be cast away , he is not lyable to make satisfaction , if he can prove his own Ship was in a sinking condition , had not the Goods been taken out of her ; but if this latter appear not he is lyable , unless both of the Ships are cast away : If a Ship be laded in Gross , and no particular number of Tuns mentioned , yet the Merchant shall pay the Summ agreed for . If Pirates set upon a Ship and take part of the lading , yet if the other part be carryed safe to the Port concluded on in the Charter part , Fraight for the whole is due . If any one Fraight prohibited Goods without the knowledg of the Master or Owners , and they be seized in any Port , or the Ship be detained , the Merchant shall pay Fraight notwithstanding . If a passenger die in the Ship , and none claim his Goods in a Year and a Day , they shall be divided between the Master , his Mates , and the Cloaths are to be brought to the Ship-Mast head , and after an appraisement made to be distributed amongst the Mariners , as a reward of their care for seeing the Body put into the Sea ; if Fraight be contracted for Transporting of a Woman , and She by the way be delivered , there is no Fraight due for the Infant . If the owners Fraight out a Ship , and afterwards take into it Goods secretly contrary to the knowledge of the Merchant , by the Law Marine he loses his Fraight , and if in such a case any of the Merchants Goods be cast overboard in stress of Weather , the owner must make them good , but this is only when a full Fraight is agreed for , but if the owner be not privy to such Goods bringing in , he is not lyable for the defaults of others to the damage aforesaid . By Law the lading of a Ship is tacitly bound for the payment of Fraight , if a Ship put into any Port then that in which She was Fraighted for , and there receives damage , the Owner or Master shall answer the same to the Merchant ; for the Charter party obliges the owners to deliver them safe at the Port therein mentioned , unless Enemies or Storms prevent it , and if a Ship suffer damage by Reason of defect in Tackling , the Owners or Master are bound to make it good . If Goods are sent aboard in general it must be specifyed so much , or such Goods as are accustomed for such a Voyage . If a Ship be Fraighted for so many Tuns , and She will not bear them , then there is no more Fraight due , then the Ship is computed to be of Burthen , or for so many Tun as are sent on Board ; but if a Ship be Fraighted by the great , and no certain Burthen mentioned , then the Summ agreed upon must be pay'd , or if a Ship be Fraighted for 200 Tuns over or under , 5 Tuns are the allowance either over or under and no more . If Wines be Fraighted , and by the way a great part of them Leak out , yet the Fraight is due , the defect being in the Cask ; tho some are of opinion , that unless eight Inches of Wine be left in each Cask , it is in the Election of the Fraighter , whether they will pay Fraight or throw the remainder up to the Master for his Fraight . If a Ship be taken in War , and afterwards retaken and proceed on her Voyage , the property is not altered , but when the Voyage is performed the Fraight becomes due . If any one contract with a Mariner for Fraight , who is not impowered by the owners , and loss happens , that Mariner is Subject to an Action only , and the Master or Owner free : If a Ship agree for so much per Month to be pay'd at her return , and She upon her return be cast away , yet the Fraight is to be pay'd for so many Months , as She was abroad on that occasion , as Mariners that dye at Sea , &c. CHAP. CXIX . Of Wrecks what may properly be termed such according to the Laws Marine , and Common , with Instructions for owners and Masters in case of a Wreck . A Wreck is properly when a Ship is cast away , and no live thing escapes to Shoar ; and then those upon whose Grounds the Goods are cast by the Sea , ought unless they are Perishable to keep them a twelve-month , to see if any will claim them ; and if any do take such Goods , and contrary to the known Laws convert them to their own use , they are upon Conviction of the same , to pay four times the value to the owner , and as much to the King ; but if the Goods are Perishable , then the Sherif , Corroner , or Bailif , in whose Jurisdiction they are found may sell them , but must be accountable for so much money , to those that can make out the Goods were theirs ; and to prevent such Wrecks as much as may be , all Fisher-men upon severe Penalties are forbid to Fish with Lights in the Night . But if Goods Wrecked be not owned or Sued for within a Year and a Day , they fall to the King's Exchequer by the Law of Oleron , and the Islue must be tryed before the Judges of the Wrecks ; always provided this Law do not extend to Pirates , Sea-Rovers , Robers , Turks , or Enemies to the Christian Faith , and if any who unjustly detains any such Wrecked Goods , shall refuse to deliver them , or satisfaction to the full value , he shall be Imprisoned , and if a Lords Bailiff be therein found to offend , the Lord is obliged to deliver his Balif's Body to the King. And as for Custom , Wrecked Goods rarely pay any , but if the Ship be cast away , or all the Goods or the Major part of them saved , in such a case they pay an easie Custom , as the Labour of saving them was more or less difficult , and in that case light Goods as Silver and Gold , according to value shall pay less then heavy and Gross Goods . All Wrecks of Whales or great Sturgeon are properly the Kings . There are other sorts of Wrecks as Flotsam , Jetsam , and Lagan or Ligan ; the former is when a Ship is Sunk , and the Goods are found Floating on the Sea. The second is when a Ship is about to sink , and to endeavour to save her , the Goods are cast into the Sea ; notwithstanding which the Ship Perishes , and the third is when Goods are cast over to lighten the Ship and She perishes not , but a Buoy is fixed to note the place , that so they may be possibly recovered , especially such Goods as sink down-right , in these cases the King shall have Flotsam , Jetsem , and Lagan ; provided the Ship perishes , or when the owners of the Goods are not known ; but when the Ship Perishes not they belong to the Merchant , who upon proof will recover them . These three are commonly the Kings grant , within the high and low Water marks by prescription , as it appears by those in the West Countries , who prescribe to have Wrecks as far as they can see a Humber Barrel . If a Ship be ready to Perish , and all the men for preservation of their Lives escape in their Long-Boat ; yet if the Ship drive afterward into any Port , it is no Wreck ; and the like if a Ship be taken by Pirates , and after taking out the Men and Goods turned it a Drift . All owners claiming Wrecks , must make their Proof by their Cocquets or Marks Personal , Testimony upon Oath or the Books of Entery in the Custom-House , and if any such Wreck belongs to the King , the party must Sue out a Commission to hear and determine , and that by the Oaths of twelve men , or else he may bring his Action at Law , and make his proof by Verdict , but let him be careful that such his Action be brought within a Year and a Day , or it will not lye ; all Flotsams , Jetsams , and Legans appertain by grant of Charter to the Lord high Admiral , and must be decided if found upon the high Sea , in the Court of Admiralty . Wrecked Goods tho such as are prohibited , are not Forfeitable , by Reason they were not brought in but by the Wind and Tide , contrary to the will of the Owner , as by Law is supposed . If the Wreck happen by the negligence or fault of the Master , he is lyable to make Satisfaction , but if otherwise the Owners and Fraighters sustain the loss . CHAP. CXX . Of Averidg and Contribution , according to the Law Marine , if Goods are cast overboard in a storm , &c. and what Goods may in such a case be Ejected , and what not . IF when a Ship is Fraighted , and at Sea a storm arises , the Master if he finds the Ship in danger , may by the consent or rather by consulting his Mariners throw such heavy Goods overboard , as may tend to the Lightning or saving the Ship , and if the Mariners refuse to consent , then it is Lawful for him to command it to be done ; always provided that he throw over the coarsest Goods , and those that are most Ponderous , and in that case the rest of the Goods in the Ship , shall contribute to those thrown over-board ; the Sailers Cloaths and Provision excepted . If they are thrown over before half the Voyage is made , then the contribution shall be according to what the Goods cost , but if when above half the Voyage then proportionable to what those that remain are sold for . But upon the arrival of the Ship at the Port intended , the Master and Part of his Crue must swear that such Goods were thrown over for the preservation of the Ship , and the rest of the Goods ; and if afterwards the Merchant bring his Action against the owners or Master , they may plead the special Matter , which will remain in Bar to the Plaintifs proceedings ; but if any of the Ships Tackling be lost , no Averidge or Contribution shall be made , unless the Masts be cut by the Board , &c. or if any Goods be secretly brought into the Ship , contrary to the knowledg of the Master and Purser , be ejected , no contribution shall be made : And by the Law Marine , the Master may refuse ( in case of ejection ) to deliver the remainder of the Goods before the Contribution is setled , or if in a storm part of the Goods are dammaged , without any neglect of the Master or Sailers , such Goods for so much as they are dammaged , ought to come into the contribution . If two Ships meet and strike each other , and if it can be proved that either of them did it willfully or by carelesness , then that Ship shall satisfy the damage received by the other , but if either Ships crew Swear their innocency , then the dammage is to be Levyed proportionable between them ; if any Ejection of Goods happen by the indiscretion of the stowers in lading the Ship above the Birth mark , or the like ; then the Master or Owners ought to make satisfaction . If when a Vessel is entering a Port or otherwise part of the Goods be put into a Lighter or Ship-Boat , and the Boat be cast away , there Contribution must be made ; but if the Ship be cast away , and the Lighter or Boat saved , then no Contribution ; for note where the Ship at any time Perishes , tho a great part of the Goods be saved , yet they allow no Contribution . If a Ship be taken by Pirates or Enemies , and the Master contracts with them for the dismission of the Ship at such a Summ of money , and till the same be pay'd yields himself Prisoner , in that case Contribution must be levyed upon the Ship , and lading for the Ransom of the said Master ; and so where a Pirate by consent takes part of the Goods to spare the rest , Contribution must be made , but if he takes them by force or at his own pleasure , then no contribution is to be made , unless the Merchants yield so to do after the Ship is Robbed , but if taken by an Enemy , Letter of Marque or Reprisal the contrary . If Jewels be on Board in a Box and not discovered , and they be cast overboard , Contribution shall be for no more then they appeared , viz. a Parcel . If any thing in a storm be cast into the Sea , and afterward recovered , then Contribution shall be made for no more then the damage sustained . The Master and Purser in case of a storm shall contribute towards Goods Ejected , for the preservation of the Ship and Passenger for such Wares as they have ; and if they have no Wares , then for their Cloaths , Rings , &c. according to estimation . Contribution is to be pay'd for a Pilots Fee , for bringing a Ship safe into any Harbour where she is not bound . If the Master of a Ship , after he has received his Complements , takes in Goods contrary to the knowledge of the Merchant , and part of the Merchants Goods in case of a storm are thrown overboard , then the Master is lyable to make Satisfaction . If Contribution be setled , and the Merchant will not consent to pay it , the Master may refuse delivering the Goods , and if an Action be brought , he may Barr the Plaintif by pleading the special matter , yet in a storm there are some Ladings , which ought not to be ejected . As Pieces of Ordnance , Ammunition , or Provisions for the relief of a City Besieged , or in danger so to be , for there the Law implyes , that the Subject ought to prefer the good of his Prince , before his own life . CHAP. CXXI . A View of the Port of London , and of the Customs , Priviledges , Exemptions , and Revenues of that great City according to the Charters , Grants , &c. of several Kings of England . SEeing the Port of London is the Principal Port of this Kingdom , it will not be amiss to set down the Priviledges and Customs thereof , and what Revenues by way of Exportation and Importation , accrues to the Honourable City in order to support its Grandure . First then the Port of London , as by Exchequer setled and declared , extends from the Promontory or Point , called the North Foreland , in the Isle of Thannet . Thence Northward to the Nase Point beyond the Sunfleet upon the Coast of Essex , and so continues Westward up the River of Thames ; and the several Channels , Streams , and Rivers falling into it to London-Bridge . The usual known Rights , Liberties , and Priviledges , to the Ports of Sandwich and Ipswich , and their Members excepted , and in regard that Ships did formerly come up to the Port of London , and unlade in several obsure Creeks at Staires , to defraud his Majesty of his Customs , it was therefore ordained , that a Commission should be forthwith Issued out of the Exchequer , to affix and nominate all such Wharfes , Keys , and other places as his Majesty by virtue of such Commission should appoint , in pursuance of which his Majesty has been pleased to Nominate and Constitute as Lawful Keys , Wharfs , &c. these following for the Landing of Goods , Merchandise , &c. viz. Brewers-Key , Chestors-Key , Wool-Dock , Porters-Key , Bear-Key , Wiggons-Key , Youngs-Key , Ralphs-Key , Smarts-Key , Lyons-Key , Buttolf-Wharf , Hammons-Key , Cocks-Key , Fresh-Wharf , Billingings-Gate , and the Bridge-House . The former of the two latter being appointed a common open place for the Landing or bringing in of Fish , Salt , Victuals , or Fuel of all sorts , Fruit of all sorts , Grocery excepted ; all Native Materials for Building , and for exporting the like , but no other Merchandise ; and the latter , viz. the Bridge-House is appointed for the Landing of Corn for the City store , tho under pretence of the same several Persons at this Day Landed their proper Corn ; moreover there are these Keys , viz. the Custom-House Key , some Stairs on the West side whereof are declared not to be places for Lading or Shipping of Goods . Sabs-Dock has a pair of Stares not held Lawful for the Landing or lading of Merchandise . The like has Dice-Key , Summers-Key , and Gaunts-Key ; tho otherwise allowable . Therefore it is to be supposed those Stairs that are accepted against were built for Conveniency , since the declaring them free places of lading , and Landing Merchandise . These Keys , Wharfs and Docks , yearly produce a great Income to the City of London , by Scavage , Portage , Packing and Water-Bailage . As first Scavage being an Ancient Toll or Custom , taken by the Majors , Sherifs , &c. for Wares shewed or offered to Sail within their Precincts , consists of two parts , viz. that which is payable by the Denizen , & that which is payable by the Alien or Stranger ; and that all Persons Subject to such Duties , may not be imposed on by such as take them , there are Tables mentioning each particular set up and approved of by the Lord Chancellor , Treasurer , President , Steward , and two Justices of the Common-Pleas ; and by them Subscribed or some four of them at least , and are to be levyed on Goods inwards and outwards . As all Goods mentioned in the Table of Scavage , and not included in the Table of Rates , shall pay after the rate of one penny in the pound , according as they are expressed or valued in his Majesties Book of rates , and all others not expressed therein , shall pay the same rates , according to the true value . All private Bulks of eight Inches square , are by the third Article annexed to the Book of rates ; reputed Timber and valued at 3 pence the Foot , 50 Foot being accounted the Load , valued at 12 Shillings 6 pence , and the duty for one Load is one half penny and half a Farthing . Package is another duty , which is likewise ●itted and ●ted in a Table called 〈…〉 of Pa● Duties , and all the 〈◊〉 ●ies the● mentioned pay one 〈…〉 ●ording as they are 〈…〉 Majesties Book of ●●tes , 〈◊〉 ●ers not mentioned therein shall 〈◊〉 the rate of one penny in the pound according to their true value . For every Entry in the Packers Book , and for Writing Bills of each Entry outwards they pay 12 pence . All Strangers are to pay the Labouring Porters for making up their Goods according to Custom . Strangers must also pay the Water-side Porters belonging to the Package-Office , such Fees for Shipping and Lading as for several Years past they have done . The Packers and Waterside-Porters , have Tables expressing the Duties payable ; and such Goods as are not mentioned therein must pay according to their true value , so much in the Pound as aforesaid for Package and Porterage-duties over and above . Another Ancient duty there is called Water-Bailage , which for many Years past the City of London have claimed and received for all Goods and Merchandise imported from any part in the Realm , or out of the Realm , into the Port of London : and so the like duties with a little alteration , for all Goods exported out of the Port of London , unless the Goods or Merchandise of Freemen , who are exempted from paying this Duty , tho many Freemen for Reason best known to themselves notwithstanding do voluntarily pay it ; but of late there has been considerable Debates , whether the same be due or not , tho no Clause in the Act of Tonnage or Poundage , does any ways Bar those duties . All Lighters , Wherries , Fisher-Boats , &c. occupying the River of Thames , within the Limits of the Cities Jurisdiction , confirmed by their Charter , pay Summs of Acknowledgement or Duty for the same , which amounts annually to a considerable value . All Markets within the Precincts of the City , pay the Duty of Toll to the behoof of the City . The Citizens of London , viz. those that are Resident are exempted from the Custom or Impost called Prizage , which is , that out of ten Tuns of Wine the King is to have one , paying for it 20 Shillings , but Citizens must not own any Wines so imported under Colour , to secure Strangers from paying Prisage . If a Freeman live in another City , and send Wines to unlade at the Port of London ; he shall not be capable of this Priviledge , but must be resident as aforesaid , for by a private Act in the 24 of Hen. 6 complaint was made , that the Lord Major would make Strangers Citizens ; whereupon it was there declared , that this Benefit to be discharged from payment of Prisage , extended not to such Citizens as were made so by Gift , but such as were Legally Citizens , according to the true , intent and meaning thereof , by Service or Adoption , and resident in the said City ; and 't is further observed that if any Merchant not a Citizen break Bulk , tho he deliver but part of his Cargo , yet the Duty is to be levyed upon all , as if all had been unladen . And this Priviledge likewise enjoy the Inhabitants resident in the Cinque-Ports . Butherage , as I have before said , is 2 Shillings per Tun , upon Wines imported by Strangers ; but the English are exempted from that Duty . And thus much for the Priviledges , Customs , &c , of the City of London , in relation to Trade . CHAP. CXXII . A Survey of the remaining Ports of England , their Members , Creeks , &c. with a relation of their Legalities touching Exportation and Importation , together with what Commodities may be Exported , when sold at the Port where they shall be laded at certain rates . THe other Legal Ports of England , their Members and Creeks are these , Ipswick , has Members , Malden and Colchester , Creeks , Leigh-Burnham , West-Mersy , East-Mersy , Brickly , Wivenhoe , Maintree , and Harwich . The Port of Yarmouth has Members , Woodbridge , Alborough , Sowold , Blacking , and Creeks , Orford , Dunwick , Walderswick , and Lestoffe . The port of Lynn , has Member Wells only , Creeks , Burnham , Hitcham , Croskeys , and Wisbich . The Port of Boston , has Creeks , Spolding , Tosdick , Wainefleet , Numby-Chaple , Thethethorp and Salt-Fleet . The Port of Hull has Members , Grimsby , Bridlington , and Scar●●●●●gh , and one Creek ●●ly , viz. Sainthorp . The Port of New-Castle has Members , Whitby , Stockton , Har●lepool , Sunderland , and yields Creeks , Middleborough , Seatondelaval , and Blith-Nook . The Port of Barwick has Creeks , Aylemouth , Warnewater , Holy-Island , and the East-Marches containing the Coast of Northumberland , bordering upon Scotland . The Port of Carlisle , has for Member , Whitehaven ; for Creeks , the West-Marches containing the Coast of Cumberland , bordering on Scotland , Workington , Raving-Glass , and Milinthorp . The Port of Chester , has Members , Lancaster , Boulton , Liverpool , Aberconway , Bewmaris , and Carnarvan ; Creeks , Pit of Towdrey , Graung , Wyrewater , Preston , Riblewater , Sankey-Bridge , Fradsham ; the South shore of the River Mersy , to the Red-Stone , Hilbree , Dawpool , Neston , Burtonhead , Baghill , Mosten , Holy-Head , Amlogh , Pulhelly , and Barmouth . The Port of Milford has Members , Aberdony , Cardigan , and Pembrook ; Creeks , Aberustha , New-Port , Fiscard , Haverford , West-Tenby , Carmarthen , Lanelthy , and North-Burys . The Port of Cardif has for Member , Swansey ; Creeks , South-Berrys , Nealth or Briton-Terry , Newton , Alberthaw , Penarth , New-Port , and Chepstow . The Port of Glocester has for Creeks the River Severn , from the Bridge North to Kings-Road . The Port of Bristol has Creeks , Pill , and Vphill . The Port of Bridg-Water , has for Member , Minhead . The Port of Plimouth has for Members Padstow , St. Jues , Pensance , Helford , Falmouth , Fowey and Lowe ; Creeks , Penrin , St. Maures , Fruro , Salt-ash , and Cowsland . The Port of Exeter has Members , Ilfracomb , Barustable and Dartmouth ; Creeks , Clovelly , Appledore , Biddiford , Tincomb , Star-Cross , Bear and Seaton , Topsham , Pouldram , Sydmouth , Lympson , Exmouth , Aylemouth , Saltcomb , Brixham , Torbay , and Totnes . The Port of Pool has Members , Lyme and Weymouth ; Creeks , Bridgport , Charmouth , Portland and Lulworth . The Port of Southampton has Members , Corves and Portsmouth ; Creeks , Swaridge , Wareham , Christ-Church , Hinington , Yarmouth , New-Port , and Emsworth . The Port of Chichester has Members , Arundel , Shorham , Lewis , Pemsey , Hawing , Rye and Hyth ; Creeks , Pagham-Point , Selsey , Brighthemston , New-Haven , Seaford , Winchelsea , Lyd and Rumny . The Port of Sandwich has Members Dover , Feversham , Milton and Rochester ; Creeks , Deal , Rumsgate , Margate , Whitestable and Quinb●rough . These Ports or Publick places are those to which the Officers of the Customs are appropriated , which contain and include the Guidances , and Privileges of all the Members and Creeks to them appertaining ; being the places appointed for the Lading , and unlading Merchandise . The Members are such places as formerly enjoyed Custom-Houses , and have yet Offices or their Deputies attending ; they being accounted Lawful places of Lading or unlading all Commodities unless such as are prohibited . The Creeks are places where Officers do or formerly have given their Attendance by way of Prevention , not out of Duty or Right , and are not accounted lawful places to Land or Lade any Goods without Licence or sufference from the Port or Members , under which any such Creek or Creeks is placed ; all which as they be at present accounted at the Custom-House , are as aforesaid being respectively in the Body of the Counties , and consequently out of the Jurisdiction of the Admiralty ; in case any thing more then ordinary is done , or sustained in any of them . And now I shall only inform the Reader , that Commodities of English Growth and Manufacture , may be exported when sold in England at certain rates , according to the Statute made in the 12 of Car. 2. and so put an end to this Work. Gunpowder when it exceedeth not the price of five pound per Barrel , may be exported ; Wheat , Rye , Pease , Beans , Barly , Malt , Oats , Pork , Beef , Bacon , Butter , Cheese , and Candles ; when they do not exceed the Prizes following at the Ports where they are Laded at the time of their Lading , viz. Wheat the quarter forty Shillings , Rye , Beans and Pease the quarter twenty four Shillings , Barly and Malt the quarter twenty Shillings , Oats the quarter sixteen Shillings , Bief the Barrel fifty pound , Pork the Barrel six pound ten Shillings , Bacon the pound six Pence , Butter the Barrel four pound ten Shillings , Cheese the pound thirty Shillings , Candles the dozen pounds five Shillings , paying the respective rates according as they are set down in the Book of rates ; always provided that his Majesty may when he sees occasion , prohibit the Exportation of Gunpowder and other Ammunition . And thus Reader , have I with much Labour Sailing through many Tempestuous Seas , once again cast Anchor in safe Harbour ; hoping this Work may be advantageous unto many , and useful unto all who are any ways concerned in Trade or Commerce , whether by Navigation or otherwise , the which if it does , I have obtained the end of my Design . FINIS . ENGLAND'S GUIDE TO INDUSTRY : OR , Improvement of Trade , for the good of all People in general . LONDON , Printed by R. Holt for T. Passinger at the three Bibles on London-Bridge , and B. Took at the Ship in St. Pauls-Church-Yard . 1683. THE PREFACE . FOrasmuch as men who are in a decaying condition , or who have but an ill opinion of their own concernments , instead of being ( as some think ) the more industrious to resist the evil they apprehended , do contrarywise become the more Languid and ineffectual to all in all their endeavoures ; neither caring to attempt or prosecute even the probable means of their relief : I as a member of the Common-Wealth , next to the knowing the precise truth in what Condition the common interest stands , would all in doubtful cases thinkthe best and consequently not dispair without strong and manifest Reasons , carefully examining what ever tends to lessen my hopes of the Publick Wellfair . I have therefore thought fit to examine the following perswasions , which I find too currant in the World , and too much to have affected the minds of some to the prejudice of all , viz. That the Rents of Lands are Generally fallen , that therefore and for many other Reasons , the whole Kingdom growes poorer and poorer ; that formerly it abounded with Gold ; but now there is a great Scarcity both of Gold and Silver . That there is no Trade nor imployment for the people , and yet that the Land is underpeopled , that Taxes have been many and great . That Ireland and the Plantations in America , and other additions to the Crown are a Burthen to England , that Scotland is of no advantage ; that Trade in General doth lamentably decay , that the Hollanders are at our Heels in the Race of Naval power , the French grow too fatt upon both , and appear so Rich and Potent , that it is but their Clemency , that they do not devour their Neighbours ; and finally that the Church and State of England , are in the same danger with the Trade of England , with many other dismal Suggestions , which I do rather Stifle then repeat . 'T is true the Expence of Forraign Commodities , have of late been too great : Much of our Plate had it remained money , would have better served Trade , too many matters have been regulated by Laws , with natures long Custom and general consent , ought only to have Govern'd the Slaughter and Destruction of men by the late Civil Wars , and Plague have been great the Fire of London and disaster at Chattham have begotten opinions in the Vulgar of the World to our prejudice , the Nonconformists increase , the people of Ireland think long of their settlement . The English there apprehend themselves to be Aliens , and are forced to seek a Trade with Forraigners , which they might maintain with their own Relations in England , but notwithstanding all this ( the like whereof was always in all places ) the Buildings in London grow great and Glorious , the American Plantations employ 400 Sail of Ships ; Auctions in the East-India Company are above double the principal money : Those who can give good Security , may have money under the Statute interest , materials for Building ( oven Oaken Timber ) are little the dearer , some cheaper , for the rebuilding of London ; the Exchange seems as full of Merchants as formerly ; no more Beggers in the Streets , nor executed for thieves as heretofore : the number of Coaches , and Splendor of Equipage , exceeding former times ; the publick Theatres very magnificent ; the King has a greater Navy and stronger Guards then before our Calamities : the Clergy rich , the Cathedr●ls in repair , much Land have been improved , and the price of Food Reasonable ; and in Brief no man needs to want that will take moderate pains ; that some are poorer then others ever was and will be , and that many are Querulous , and Envious is an Evil as old as the World. These general Observations , and that men Eat , and Drink , and Laugh as they use to do , have incouraged me to try if I could comfort others , being satisfied my self that the Interest and Affairs in England are in no deplorable condition ; the Method I take to do this is not yet very usual , for instead of using only Comparative and Superlative words and Intellectual Arguments , I have taken the course ( as a Specimen of the Political Arithmetick I have long aimed at ) to express my self in Number , Weight , and Measure . A Discourse of Trade . Being a Comparison between England and other parts of Europe , wherein the Incouragement of Industry is promoted in these Islands of Great Britain and Ireland . CHAP. I. That a small Country and few People by Situation , Trade , and Policy , may be equivalent in Wealth , and Strength to a far greater People and Territories ; and particularly that conveniencies for Shipping and Water-Carriage do most eminently and fundamentally conduce thereto . THe first principal Conclusion by reason of it's Length I consider in three parts , whereof the first that a small Country and few People may be equivalent in Wealth and Strength to a far greater People and Territories . This part of the first principal Conclusion needs little proof , forasmuch as one Acre of Land may bear as much Corn and feed as many Cattle as twenty by the difference of the Soyl , some Parcels of Ground are naturally so defensible as that 100 men being possest thereof , can resist the Invasion of 500. Bad Land may be improved and made good , Bog may by dreining be made Meadow ; Heath Land may ( as in Flanders ) be made to bear Flax , and Clover-grass , so as to advance in value from 1. to 100. the same Land being built upon may centriple the Rent , which it yieldeth as pasture ; one man is nimbler and stronger and more patient of Labour than another ; one man by Art may do as much work as many , viz. one man with a Mill can grind as much Corn as 20. can pound in a Mortar , one Printer can make as many Copies as an hundred can write by hand ; one horse can carry as much upon Wheels as five men upon their backs , and in a Boat , or upon Ice as 20 ; so that I say again the first point of this general position needs little or no proof . But the second and more material part of this Conclusion is , that this difference in Land and People arises principally from their Situation Trade and Policy . To clear this I shall compare Holland and Zealand with the Kingdom of France . Holland and Zealand do not contain above 1. Million of English Acres , whereas the Kingdom of France contains above 80. Now the original and primitive difference holds proportion as Lands to Land ; for it is hard to say that when these places were 1st . planted , whether an Acre of Land in Holland was better then the like quantity in France and Zealand : Now is there any reason to suppose , but that therefore upon the first Plantation the number of Planters was in proportion to the quantity of Land ; wherefore if the People are not in proportion as the Land the same must be attributed to the Situation of the Land , and to the Trade and Policy of the People . The next thing to be shewn is that Holland and Zealand at this day is not only 80th . as rich and strong as France , but that it hath advanced to the 3d. or thereabouts , which I think will appear upon the ballance of the following Particulars , viz. As for the Wealth of France , a certain Map of that Kingdom set forth An. 1647. represents it to be 15 Millions , whereof six did belong to the Church , the Author thereof ( as I suppose ) meaning the Rents of the Land only And the Author of a most judicious Discourse of Husbandry ( supposed to be Sir Richard Weston ) doth from reason and experience shew that Lands in the Netherlands , by bearing Flax , Turnips , Clover-grass , Madder , &c. will easily yield 10 pound per Acre , so as the Territories of Holland and Zealand should by this account , yield at least 10 Millions per Annum ; yet I do not believe the same to be so much , nor France so little as aforesaid , but rather that one bears to the other as about 7 or 8 to one . The People of Amsterdam are one 3d part of those in Paris or London , which two Cities differ not in People a 20th part from each other as hath appeared by the Bills of Burials and Christenings from each , but the value of the Buildings in Amsterdam may well be half that of Paris by reason of the Foundations , Grafts and Bridges , which in Amsterdam are more numerous and chargeable than Paris : Moreover the Habitations of the poorest People in Holland and Zealand are twice or thrice as good as those of France but the People of the one to the People of the other being but as 13 to 1. the value of the Housing must be as about 5 to 1. The Shipping of Europe being about 2 Millions of tuns I suppose the English have about 5000000 , the Dutch 900 thousand , the French 100 thousand , the Hamburgers and the Subjects of Denmark , Sweden , and the Town of Dantzick 250 thousand , and Spain , Portugal , Italy , &c. 250 thousand ; so as the Shipping in our case of France to that of Holland and Zealand is about 1 to 9 : which reckoned great and small one with another at 8 pound per Tun makes the worth to be 800 thousand pounds to 7 Millions , & 2000000 pounds the Hollanders Capital in the East-India Company is worth about 3 Millions where the French has little or nothing . The value of the Goods exported out of France into all parts are supposed quadruple to what is sent to England alone , & consequently in all about 5 Millions ; but what is exported out of Holland into England is worth 3 Millions ; and what is exported thence into all the World besides is sextuple to that Summ. The Moneys yearly raised by the French King , as the same appears by the Book intituled the State of France , dedicated to the King printed An. Dom. 1669. and set forth several times by Authority , is 82 Millions of French Livers , which is about ½ Millions of pounds Sterling , of which Summ the Author sayes that one 5th part was abated for Nonvaluers or Insolvencies . So as ( I suppose ) not above 5 Millions were effectually raised , but whereas some say the King of France raised 11 Millions as the ⅕ of the Effects of France , I humbly affirm , that the Land and Sea forces , all the Buildings and Interleguments which we have heard by common Fame to have been set forth and made in any of these last 7 years needed not to have cost 6 Millions Sterling ; wherefore I suppose he hath not raised more , especially since there were ⅕ insolvencies when the Tax was at that pitch . But Holland and Zealand paying 67 of 100 pay'd by all the United Provinces , and the City of Amsterdam paying 27 of the said 67 , it follows that if Amsterdam hath pay'd 4000 pound Flemmish per diem , or about 146000 per Annum , or about 80 thousand pound Sterling , that all Holland and Zealand have paid above 2 Millions per Annum ; now the Reasons why they pay so much , I think are these ( viz ) 1. the Author of the State of the Netherlands saith so . 2dly . Excise of Victuals at Amsterdam seems above half the Original value of the same ( viz ) ground Corn pays 20 Stivers the Bushel , or 63 Gilders the Last , Beer 113 Stivers the Barrel , housing ⅙ of Rent , fruit ⅛ of what it cost ; other Commodities 1 / 7 ⅛ 1 / 9 1 / 12 Salt ad libitum , all weighed Goods pay besides the premises a vast sum : now if the expence of the People of Amsterdam at a Medium , and without Excise , were 8 pound per Annum , whereas in England 't is 7 pound , then if all the several Imposts above named raise it 5 pound more , there being 160 thousand Souls in Amsterdam , the Sum of 800 thousand pound Sterling per Annum will thereby be raised . 3dly . Though the Expence of each Head should be 13 pound per Annum , 't is well known that there be few in Amsterdam who do not earn much more than the said Expence . 4thly . If Holland and Zealand pay per Annum 2,000,000 pounds , then all the Provinces together must pay about 3 Millions , less then which Sum per Annum perhaps is not sufficient to have maintained the Naval War with England , 72 thousand land Forces besides all other the ordinary charges of their Government , whereof the Church is there a part . To conclude , it seems from the Premises , that all France doth not raise above thrice as much from the publick Charge , as Holland and Zealand alone do . 5thly . Interest of Money in France 7 pounds per Centum , but in Holland scarce half so much . 6thly . The Country of Holland and Zealand , consisting as it were of Islands guarded with the Sea , Shipping and Marshes , is defensible at ¼ the charge of a plain open Country is , and where the Seat of War may be both Winter and Summer , whereas in others nothing can be done but in the Summer only . 7thly . But above all the particulars hitherto considered that of Superlucration ought chiefly to be taken in , for if a Prince have never so many Subjects and his Country never so good , yet if either through sloath or extravagant Expences or oppression and injustice , what ever is gained , shall be spent as fast as gotten , the State must be accounted poor . Wherefore let it be considered how much , or how many times rather Holland and Zealand are now above what they were 100 years ago ; which we must also do of France ; now if France hath scarce doubled it's Wealth and Power , and that the other have decupled theirs ; I shall give the preference to the latter , even altho the 9 increased by the one should not exceed the one half gained by the other ; because one hath a Store for 9 years , and the other but for 1. To conclude upon the whole , that though France being Peopled to Holland and Zealand as 13 to 1 , and in quantity of good Land as 80 to 1 , yet is not 13 times Richer and Stronger , much less 80 times , nor much above thrice , which was to be proved . Having thus dispatched the two first Branches of the first principal Conclusion , it follows to shew that this difference of improvement in Wealth and Strength , arises in particular from conveniencies for Shipping and Water-carriage . Many writing on this Subject do so magnifie the Hollanders as if they were more , and all other Nations less then men , ( as to the matter of Trade and Policy ) making them Angels , and others Fools , Brutes and Sots as to those particulars , whereas I take the foundation of their Atchievements to lie originally in the Situation of the Country , whereby they do things inimitable to others , and have advantages whereof others are incapable . First , The Soyl of Holland and Zealand is low Land , rich and fertile , whereby it is able to feed many men , and so as that men may live near each other for their mutual Assistance in Trade , I say that 1000 Acres that can feed 1000 Souls is better than 10000 of no more effect , for the following reasons to it ( viz. ) first suppose some great Fabrick were in building by 1000 men , shall not much more time be spared if that they lived all upon 1000 Acres , then if they were forced to live upon 10 times as large a Scope of Land ? 2dly . The charge of their care of their Souls , and the Ministry would be far greater in the one case then the other , as also of Mutual defence in case of invasion , and even of Thieves and Robbers ; moreover the charge of the Administration of Justice would be much easier where Witnesses and Parties may be easily Summoned , Attendance less expensive when mens Actions would be better known , when wrong and Justice would not be covered as in thin-peopled places they are . Lastly those who live in solitary places must be their own Soldiers , Divines , Physicians and Lawyers , and must have their Houses stored with necessary provisions ( like a Ship going upon a long Voyage ) to the great wast and needless expence of such provisions : the value of this first conveniency to the Dutch I reckon to be about 100 thousand pounds per Annum . 2dly . Holland is a level Country , so as , if in any part thereof a Wind-Mill may be set up , and by it's being moist and vaporous , there is always Wind stirring over it , by which advantage the labour of many thousand hands is saved , forasmuch as a Mill made by one man in half a year will do as much labour as 4 men for 5 years together ; this advantage is greater or less where imployment and ease of Labour is so , but in Holland it is eminently great , and the worth of this Conveniency between near 100 and 150 thousand pound . 3dly . there is much more to be gained by Manufacture than Husbandry , and by Merchandise than Manufacture , but Holland and Zealand , being seated at the Mouths of 3 long great Rivers , and passing through rich Countries do keep all the Inhabitants upon the sides of those Rivers but as Husbandmen , whilst themselves are the Manufactors of their Commodities , and do dispence them into all Parts of the World , making returns for the same at what price almost they please themselves ; and in short , they keep the Trade of those Countries through which the same Rivers pass , the value of this 3d convenience is 200 thousand pound . 4thly . In Holland and Zealand there is scarce any place of work or business one Mile distance from a Navigable Water , and the charge of Water-carriage is generally but the 15th or 20th part of Land-carriages , wherefore if there be as much Trade there as in France , then the Hollanders can out-sell the French 14 / 15 of all the Expence of all travelling postage and carriage whatsoever , which even in England I take to be 300 thousand pound per Annum , where the very postage of Letters costs the People perhaps 50 thousand pound per Annum , though farmed at much less , and all other Labours of Horses and Porters at least six times as much ; the value of this conveniency I estimate to be above 300 thousand pounds per Annum . 5thly . The defensibleness of the Country by reason of it's Situation in the Sea upon Islands , and in the Marshes , impassible ground , dicked and trenched , especially considering how the place is aimed at for it's Wealth , I say the charge for defending this Country is easier than if it were a plain Champion at least 200 thousand pound per Annum . 6thly . Holland is so considerable for keeping Ships in Harbour with small Expence of men and ground-tackle that it saves them per Annum 200 thousand pounds of what must be spent in France . Now if all these natural Advantages do amount to above one Million per Annum of profit , and that the Trade of all Europe , nay of the whole World , with which our Europeans do trade , is not above 45 Millions per Annum ; and if 1 / 50 of the value be 1 / 7 of the profit , it is plain that the Hollanders may command and govern the whole Trade . 7thly . Those who have their Situation thus towards the Sea , abound with Fish at home , and having also the command of Shipping , have by consequence the Fishing Trade , whereof that of Herring alone brings more yearly profit to the Hollanders than the Trade of the West-Indies to Spain , or of the East to themselves , being as some say viis and modis of above 3 Millions per Annum profit . 8thly . It is not to be doubted but those who have the Trade of Fishing and Shipping will secure themselves of the Trade of Timber , for Ships , Boats , Masts , and Casks , of Hemp for Cordage , Sails and Nets , of Salt , of Iron , as also of Pitch , Tar , Rosin , Brimstone , Oyl and Tallow , as necessary Appurtenances to Shipping and Fishing . 9thly . Those who predominate in Fishing and Shipping have more occasion then others to frequent all parts of the World , and to observe what is wanting or redundant every where , and what each People can do , and what they desire , and consequently to be the Factors and Carriers for the whole World of Trade , upon which ground they bring all Native Commodities to be Manufactured at home , and carried back to the Country where they grow , all which we see , for do they not work the Sugars of the West-Indies , the Timber and Iron of Baltick , the Hemp of Russia , the Lead , Tin , and Wool of England , the Quick-Silver and Silk of Italy , the Yarn and dying Stuffs of Turkey ? &c. to be short in all the ancient States and Empires those who had the Shipping had the Wealth ; and if 2 per Centum in the price of Commodities , be perhaps 20 per Centum in the Gain , it is manifest that they who can in 45 Millions under-sell others by one Million ( upon Account of Mutual Interest and instrinsick Advantages only ) may easily have the Trade of the World , without such Angelical Wits and Judgments as some attribute to the Hollander . Having thus done with their Situation I come now to their Trade . It is commonly seen that each Country flourisheth in the Manufacture of it's own Native Commodity , viz. England for Woollen-Manufactures , France for Paper , Swihltand for Iron-ware , Portugal for Confectures , Italy for Silks . Upon which principle it follows , that Holland and Zealand must flourish most in the Trade of Shipping , and so become Carriers and Factors to the whole World of Trade ; now the Advantages of Shipping Trade are as followeth , viz. 1st . Husbandmen , Sea-men , Souldiers and Merchants are the very Pillars of the Commonwealth , all the other great professions do arise out of the infirmities and miscarriages of those : Now the Sea-man is 3 of these 4 ; for every Sea-man of industry and ingenuity is not only a Navigator , but a Merchant , & also a Souldier , not because he has often occasion to fight , and handle Arms , but because he is Mamilarized with hardship and hazards extending to Life and Limb ; for Training and Duelling is a small part of a Soldier , in respect of his last mentioned Qualifications , the one being quickly and presently learned , the other not without many years most painful Experience , wherefore to have the occasion of abounding in Sea-men is a vast conveniency . 2dly . the Husbandmen of England earn but about 4 s. per Week , but the Sea-man has as good as 12 s. in Wages , Victuals , Drink , and ( as it were ) Housing with other Accomodations , so a Seaman is ineffect 3 Husbandmen , wherefore there is little Ploughing or Sowing of Corn in Holland or Zealand , or breeding of young Cattle , but their Land is improved by building Houses , Ships , Engines , Dickes , Wharfs , Gardens of pleasure , extraordinary Flowers and Fruits , Dairy and feeding of Cattel , for Rape , Flax , Madder , &c. the Foundations of several Advantagious Manufactures . 3dly . Whereas the imployments of other men is confined to their own Country , that of a Sea-man is free to the whole World ; so as where Trade may ( as they call it ) be dead , here or there , now and then , it is certain that somewhere or other in the World , as Trade is always quick enough &c. and Provision is always plentiful , the Benefit whereof they who command the Shipping enjoy , and they only . 4thly . The great and ultimate effects of Trade is not wealth at large , but particularly abundance of Silver , Gold , and Jewels which are not perishable , but are wealth at all times and all places ; whereas abundance of Wine , Corn , Fowl , Flesh , &c. are riches but hic et nunc : So as the raising of such Commodities , and the following of such Trade is not profitable before others , which do store the Countrys with Silver , Jewels , &c. but the labour of Seamen and Freight of Ships , of the Nature of an exported Commodity , the over-plus whereof above what is imported brings home Money , &c. 5thly . Those who have the command of the Sea-Trade may work at easier Freight , with more profit then others at greater , for as Cloth must be cheaper made , when one Cards , another Spins , another Weaves , another Draws , another Dresses , another Presses , and Packs ; then when all the Operations above mentioned were clunsily performed by the same hand ; so those who command the Trade of Shipping , can build long slight Ships , for carrying Masts , Firr , Timber , Boards , Bolkes , &c. and that one is for Lead , Iron , Stones , &c. one sort of Vessels to Trade at Ports , where they need never ly aground , others where they must jump upon the Sand , twice every 12 hours , one sort of Vessel , and way of Manning in time of Peace , and for cheap gross Goods , another for War , and precious Commodities , one sort of Vessel for the Turbulent Sea , another for Inland Waters and Rivers , one sort of Vessels and Rigging where hast is requisite , for the Maidenhead of a Market , another where ⅕ or 4 / 1 part of the time makes no matter , one sort of Masting and Rigging for long Voyages , another for Coasting , one sort of Vessels for Fishing , another for Trade , one sort for War , for this or the contrary , another for Burthen only , some for Oars , some for Poles , some for Sails , and some for draught by men or Horses , some for the Northern Navigations amongst Ice , and some for the South against Storms , &c. And this I take to be the chief of several Reasons why the Hollanders can go at less Freight than their Neighbours ( viz. ) because they can afford a particular sort of Vessels , for each particular Trade . I have shewn how the Situation has given them Shipping , and how shipping in effects has given them all other Trade , and how Foreign Traffick must give them as much Manufactures as they can mannage themselves , and as for the over-plus make the rest of the World but as Workmen to their Ships ; it now remains to shew the effects of their policy superstructed upon these natural advantages , not as some think the excess of their understandings . I have omitted to mention that the Hollanders were 100 years since a poor and oppressed People , living in a Country naturally cold moist and unpleasant , and were withal persecuted for their Etrodoxy in Religion . From whence it necessarily follows that this People must labour hard , and set all hands to work , and Rich and Poor , young and old must study the Art of Number , Weight and Measure , must fare hard , provide for Impotents , and for Orphans , out of hope to make profit by their Labours , must punish the Lazy by Labours . I say all these particulars , said to be the subtile Excogitations of the Hollanders seem to me but with what could not almost have been otherwise . Liberty of Conscience , Registry of Conveyances , small Customs , Banks , Lombards , and Law-Merchant , rise all from the same Spring , and tend to the same Sea. As for Loans of Interest , 't is also a necessary effect of all the premises , and not the fruit of their contrivance . Wherefore we shall only shew in particular , the Efficacy of each , and first , of Liberty of Conscience ; but before I enter upon these , I shall mention a practice almost forgotten , whether it refers to Trade or Policy is not material , which is , the Hollanders undermasting and sayling of such of their Shipping as carry cheap and gross Goods , and whose Sail doth not depend much upon Season . It is to be noted that of 2 equal and like Vessels if one spreads 1600 yards of like Canvas , and the other 2500 , their Speed is but as 4 to 5 , so as one soon brings home the same Timber in 4 days , as the other will in 5 , now if we consider that although those Ships be but 4 or 5 days under Sayl , that they are perhaps 30 upon the Voyage , so as the one is but 1 / 30 parts longer upon the whole Voyage than the other , tho ⅕ longer under Sail ; now if Masts , Yards , Rigging , Cables , and Anchors , do depend upon the quantity and extent of the Sails , and consequently hands also , it follows that the one Vessel goes at 3 / 1 less charge losing but 1 / 80 of the time and of what depends thereupon . I come to the first Policy of the Dutch , viz , Liberty of Conscience , which I can conceive they grant upon these grounds , ( but keeping up always a force to maintain the Common Peace ) 1st . They themselves broke with Spain to avoid the Imposition of the Clergy . 2dly . Dissenters of this kind are for the most part thinking , sober and patient men , and such as believe , that Labour & Industry is their duty towards God , ( how Erroneous soever their Principles be . ) 3dly . These People believing the Justice of God , and seeing most licentious persons to enjoy most of the World and it's best things , will never venture to be of the same Religion and Profession with voluptuaries , and men of extreme Wealth and Power , who they think have their Portion in this World. 4thly . They cannot but know , that no man can believe what himself pleases , and to force men to say they believe when they do not , is vain , absurd , and without Honor to God. 5thly . The Hollanders knowing themselves not to be an Infallible Church , and that others had the same Scriptures for guide as themselves , and withal the same Interest to save their Souls , did not think fit to make this matter their business , no more but to make Bonds of the Seamen they imploy , not to cast away their own Ships and lives . 6thly . The Hollanders observe that in France and Spain , especially the Latter , the Church men are about 100 to one , to what they use or need , the principal care of whom is to preserve Uniformity , and this they take to be a superfluous charge . 7thly . They observe where most endeavours have been used to keep Uniformity their Exterodoxy hath most abounded . 8thly . They believe that if ⅕ of the People were Exterodox , and that if the whole quarter should by Miracle be removed , that within a small time 4 / 1 of the Remainder would again become Exterodox some way or other , it being Natural for men to differ in Opinions in Matters above sense and reason , and for those who have less Wealth to think thry have the more Wit and Understanding , especially in the things of God which they think chiefly to belong to the Poor . 9thly . They think the case of the Primitive Christians , as it is represented in the Acts of the Apostles , looks like that of the present Dissenters , ( I mean externally ) moreover it is to be observed that Trade does not ( as some think ) best flourish under popular Government , but rather that Trade is more vigorously carried on in every State and Government by the exterodox party of the same , and such as profess Opinions differ from what are publickly established ( that is to say ) in India where the Mahumetan Religion is Authorized . There the Banians are the most considerable Merchants , in the Turkish Empire , the Jews and Christians , at Venice , Naples , Legorn , Genica , and Lisbon Jews , and now Papists Merchants Strangers . But to be short , in the part of Europe where the Roman Catholick Religion now has , or lately has had Establishment , there 3 qrs . of the whole Trade is in the hands of such as have separated from the Church , viz. The Inhabitants of England , Scotland , and Ireland , as also these of the United Provinces , with Denmark , Sweden and Norway , together with the Subjects of the Norman Protestant Princes , and the Hans-Towns do at this day possess a quarter of the Trade of the World , and even France it self the Hugonets are proportionably far the greatest Trades , nor is it to be denyed but that in Ireland , where the said Roman Religion is not Authorized , but the professors thereof have a great part of the Trade , from whence it follows that Trade is not fixed to any Species of Religion as such , but rather as before hath been the said , to the heterodox party of the whole ; the truth whereof appears also in all the particular Towns of greatest Trade in England ; nor do I find reason to believe that the Roman Catholick Seamen in the whole World are sufficient to man effectually a Fleet equal to what the King of England now has , but the now Papist-Seamen can do above thrice as much . Wherefore he whom this latter party does effectionately own to be their Head , cannot probably be wronged in his Sea-concernments by the Author ; from whence it follows , that for the Advancement of Trade ( if that be a Sufficient Reason ) indulgence must be granted in matters of Opinion , those Licentious Actings as even in Holland be restrained by force . The 2d . Policy or help to Trade used by the Hollanders , is Securing the Titles to Lands and Houses , for although Lands & Houses may be called Terra firma et res immobiles , yet the Title unto them is no more certain then it pleaseth the Laws , and Authority to make them , wherefore the Holanders do by Registries and other ways of assurance make the Title as immoveable as the Lands , for there can be no incouragement to Industry where there is no Assurance of what shall be gotten by it , and where by Fraud and Corruption one man may take away with ease and by a trick what another has gotten by extream labour and pains . There has been much Discourse about introducing of Registories into England , the Lawyers for the most part do object against it , alledging the Titles of Lands in England are sufficiently secure already ; wherefore omitting the considerations , of small and oblique Reasons , pro et contra , it were good that enquiry were made from the Officers of several Courts to what Sum or Value purchasers damnified for these last 10 Yeahs , by such fraudulent conveyance as Registries would have prevented , the 10th part whereof at a Medium is the annual loss which the People sustain for want of them , and then Computation is to be made , of the annual charge of Registring such extraordinary conveyances , would secure the Titles of Lands more by comparing these two Summs , the Question so much agitated , may be determined . Their third Policy is their Bank , the use whereof is to encrease money or rather to make a small Sum equivalent to Trade in a greater , for the effecting whereof these things are to be considered : First how much Money will drive the Trade of the Nation , 2dly , how much current Money there is actually in the Nation . 3dly . how much will serve to make all payments of under 5 Pound , or any other convenient Sum throughout the year . 4thly . for what Sum the Keepers of the Bank are unquestionable security . If all these 4 particulars be well known , then it may be also known how much of ready Money above mentioned , may safely and properly be lodged in the Bank , and to how much ready current Money the said deposited Mony is equivalent ; ( as for example ) suppose 100 thousand pounds will drive the Trade of the Nation , and suppose there be but 60 thousand pounds of ready Mony in the same ; suppose also the 20 thousand pound will drive one , and answer all payments made of under 150 pound , in this case 40 of the 60 being put into the Brank will be equivalent unto 80 , which 80 , and 20 , kept out of the Bank , do make up 100 , viz. enough to drive the Trade , as was purposed . Where note that the Bank-keepers must be responsible for double the Sum intrusted with them , and must have power to levy upon the General weight they happen to lose , unto particular Men ; upon which grounds the Bankers may freely make use of the received 40 pound , whereby the said Sum and with the like Sum in credit , makes 80 pound , and with the 20 reserved 100. I might here add many more particulars , but being the same has already been noted by others , I conclude only with adding one observation which I think to be of consequence ; That the Hollanders do ridd their hands of 2 Trades , which are of great turmoil and danger , and yet of least profit . The 1st whereof is that of a common and private Soldier , for such they can hire from England , Scotland , and Germany to venture their Lives for 6 pence a day , whilst themselves safely and quietly follow such Trades whereby the meanest of them gain 6 times as much , and withal by this entertaining of Strangers for Souldiers their Country becomes more and more peopled , forasmuch as the Children of such Strangers are Hollanders , and take to Trades , whilst new Strangers are admitted in finitum ; besides , these Souldiers at convenient intervals , do at least as much work as is equivalent to what they spend ; and consequently by this way of imploying of Strangers for Souldiers , they people the Country , and save their own Persons from Danger and Misery , without any real Expence ; effecting by this Method , what others have in vain attemped by Laws for naturalizing of Strangers ; as if men could be charmed to transport themselves , from their own native , into a forreign Country , meerly by words , and for the bare leave of being called by a new Name . In Ireland , Laws for Naturalization have had little Effect , to bring in Aliens ; and 't is no wonder if Englishmen will not go thither , without they may have the pay of Souldiers , or some other Advantage amounting to Maintainance . Having intimated the way by which the Hollanders do increase their People , I shall here digress to set down the way of computing the value of every Head one with another , and that the instance of People in England ; ( viz. ) Suppose the People of England be six Millions in number , that their Expence at 7 pound per head be forty two Millions , suppose also that the Rents of Lands be eight Millions , and the profit of all the personal Estate be six Millions more , it must needs follow , that the Labour of the People have supplied the remaining thirty six Millions ; the which multiplyed by twenty , ( the mass of Mankind being worth twenty years Purchase as well as Land ) makes five hundred and twenty Millions , as the value of the whole People ; which number divided by six Millions , makes above eight Pound Sterling to be the value of each Head , Man , Woman , and Child , and of a dull Persons twice as much : From whence we may learn to compute , the Loss we have sustained by the Plague , by the slaughter of Men in War , and by sending them abroad unto the Service of forreign Princes . The other Trade the Hollanders have ridd their Hand of , is the old patriarchal Trade of being Cowkeepers , and in a great measure of which concerns plowing and sowing of Corn , have put that Imployment upon the Danes and Polanders , from whence they have their young Cattle and Corn. Here we may take notice that as Trades and curious Arts increase , so the Trade of Husbandry will decrease , unless the Wages of Husbandmen must rise , and consequently the Rents of Lands must fall . For proof whereof I dare affirm that if 〈…〉 ●andmen of England , who now 〈…〉 Pence a day , or thereabouts , could become Tradesmen , and earn sixteen Pence a day , which is no great Wages , two Shillings , and two Shillings and six Pence being usually given ; that then it would be the Advantage of England , to throw up their Husbandry , and make no use of their Lands , but for Grass , Horses , Milch-Cows , Gardens and Orchards , &c. Which if it be so , and that Trade and Manufacture have increased in England , ( viz. ) If a quarter part of the People apply themselves to these Faculties more then they did heretofore , and if the price of Corn be no greater now then when Husbandmen were more numerous , and Tradesmen fewer : It follows from the single Reason ( tho others may be added ) that if the Rents of Lands must fall : as for Example , suppose the price of Wheat be fifty or sixty Pence the Bushel ; now if the Rent of the Land whereon it grew be the third Sheaf , then of the sixty Pence , twenty Pence is for the Land , and fourty Pence for the Husbandman ; but if the Husbandman's Wages should rise ⅛ part , or from eight to nine Pence per diem ; then the Husbandman's Share in the Bushel of Wheat , raised from fourty to fourty five Pence , and consequently the Rent of the Land must fall from twenty to fifteen Pence ; for we suppose the price of the Wheat still remains ; especially since we can't raise it , for if we did attempt it Corn would be brought unto us as unto Holland , from Forraign parts , where the State of Husbandry was not changed . And thus I have done with the first Principal Conclusion , That a small Territory and even a few people may by Situation Trade and Policy be made Equivalent to a far greater , and that conveniences for Shipping and Water-Carriage do most Eminently and Fundamentally conduce thereunto . CHAP. II. That some kind of Taxes and Publick Levies , may rather increase then diminish the Wealth of the Kingdom . IF the money or other Effects levied from the people by way of Tax were destroyed and annihilated ; then it is clear , that such levies would diminish the Common-Wealth : or if the same were exported out of the Kingdom without any return at all , then the case would be also the same ; but if what is levied as aforesaid be only Transferred from one Hand to another , then we are only to consider whether the said money or Commodities are taken from an improving Hand , and given to an ill Husband , or vice versa ; as for Example , suppose money by way of Tax be taken from one , who spendeth in Superfluous Eating and Drinking , and delivered to another , who imploys the same in improving of Lands , in Fishing , in working of Mines , and Manufacture , &c. it is manifest , that such Tax is an advantage to the State whereof the said different Persons are members ; nay , if money be taken from him who spendeth the same as aforesaid upon Eating and Drinking , or any other Perishing Commodities , and Transferred to one who bestowed it on Cloaths , I say that even in this case the Common-Wealth has some little advantage , because Cloaths do not perish altogether so soon as Drinks ; but if spent in Furniture of Houses , the advantage is yet little more ; if in Building of Houses ; yet more ; if in improving of Lands , working of Mines and Fishing , yet more ; but most of all in bringing Gold and Silver into the Country , because those things are not only perishable but are esteemable for Wealth at all times , and every where ; whereas other Commodities , which are Perishable or whose value depends upon the Fashion , or which are Contingently scarce and plentiful , are Wealth pro hic & nunc , as has been elsewhere said ; in the next Place if the People of any Country , who have not already a full imployment , should be injoyned or Taxed to work upon such Commodities as are imported from abroad , I say , such a Tax does also improve the Common-Wealth ; moreover if Persons who live by Begging , Cheating , Stealing , Gaming , Borrowing without intention of Restoring , who by these ways do get from the Credulous and careless more then is Sufficient for the Subsistance of such Persons , I say , that tho the State should have no present imployment for such Persons , and consequently should be forced to clear the whole charge of their lively-hood , yet it were more for the Publick Profit to give all such Persons a regular and Competent allowance by a Publick Tax , then to suffer them to spend extravagantly at the only charge of careless and credulous and good natured People , and to expose the Common-Wealth to the loss of so many other men , whose lives are taken away for the crimes which ill Discipline does occasion ; on the contrary , if the Stocks of Laborious and ingenious men , who are not only Beautifying the Country where they live by Elegant Diet , Apparel , Furniture , Housing , Pleasant Gardens and Orchards and Publick Edifices &c. but also are increasing the Gold , and Silver , and Jewels thereof , by Trade and Armes ; I say , if the Stock of these men should be Diminished by a Tax , and Transferred to such as do nothing at all but to Eat , Drink , Sing , Play , Dance , nay to such as Study the Metaphysicks , or other needless Speculations , or else imploy themselves in any other way which produceth no material thing , or things of real use and value , in the common Wealth ; in this case the Wealth of the Publick will be diminished otherwise then as such exercises are Recreations and Refreshments of the minds ; and which being moderately used , do qualify and dispose men to what in it self is more considerable . Wherefore upon the whole matter , to know whether a Tax will do good or harm , the State of the People and of their Imployments must be well known , that is to say , what part of the People are unfit for Labour by their impotency and infancy , and also what part are exempt from the same by reason of their Wealths , Function or Dignities , by reason of their charge and imployments , otherwise Governing Directing and Preferring those who are appointed to Labour and Arts. In the next place Computations must be made , what part of those who are fit for Labour and Arts , as aforesaid , are able to perform the Work of the Nation in it's present State and Measure . 3. It is to be considered , whether the remainder can make all , or any part of these Commodities which are imported from abroad , which of them and how much in particular ; the remainder of such Sort of People , if any be , may safely and without possible prejudice to the Common-Wealth be imployed in Arts and Exercises of Pleasure and Ornament ; the greatest whereof is the improvement of Natural Knowledge . Having in general illustrated this Point , which I think needs no other Proof but illustration , I come next to intimate that no part of Europe has paid so much by way of Tax as Holland and Zealand for these last Forty years ; and yet no Country has in the same time increased — comparably to them ; and it is manifest they have followed the general rates above-mentioned ; for they Tax Meats and Drinks most heavily of all , to restrain the excessive expence of those things which twenty four hours do's as to the use of man , wholly annihilate ; and they are more Favourable to Commodities to the greater duration : nor do they tax according to what men gain , but in extraordinary cases , but alwaies according to what men spend , and most of all to what they spend needlesly and without Prospect of return ; upon which Grounds their Customs upon Goods imported and exported are generally low ; as if they intended by them only to keep an Account , of what Forreign Trade , and to retaliate upon their Neighbours States , the prejudices done them by their Prohibition and Imposition . It is farther to be observed that since th● year 1636 , the Taxes and Publick Levies made in England Scotland and Ireland have been Prodigiously greater then at any time heretofore , and yet the said Kingdoms have increased in their Wealth and Strength for these last Forty years , as shall hereafter be shewn ; it is said that the French King doth at present levy the Fifth part of his peoples Wealth , and yet great Obstructions is made of the present Riches and Strength of that Kingdom ; altho great care must be had in distinguishing between the Wealth of the people and that of an absolute Monarch , who taketh from the people where , when , and in what Proportion he pleaseth , the Subjects of two Monarchs may be equally Rich , and yet one Monarch may be double as Rich as the other ; viz. If one take the Tenth part of the Peoples Substance to his own dispose , and the other Twentyeth ; nay , the Monarch of a poor people may appear more splendid and glorious then that of a Richer ; which perhaps may be somewhat the case of France , as hereafter shall be examined . As an Instance and Application of what has been said I conceive that in Ireland wherein is above one hundred thousand people , near three hundred thousand Smoaks or Hearths , it were more tolerable for the people , and more profitable for the King , that each head paid two Shillngs-worth of Flax , then that each Smoke should pay two Shillings in Silver , and yet for these following Reasons . 1. Ireland being under-Peopled , and Cattle and Land very cheap , store of Fish and Fowl , the Ground yielding every where excellent Roots ( and particularly that bread like Root-Potatoes ) and withal they being able to perform their Husbandry with such Harness and Tackling as each man can make , living in such Houses as ( almost ) every man can Build ; and every Houswife being a Spinner and Dyer of Wool , and Yarn , they can live and Subject after their present Fashions , without the use of Gold and Silver money , and can supply themselves , with necessaries above named , without Labouring two Hours per diem . Now it has been found by reason of insolvencies arising , rather from the uselesness , then want of Money amongst these poor People , that from 300000 Hearths , which should have yielded 30 thousand pounds , not much above 15000 thousand pounds of money could be levied ; whereas it is easily imagined that 4 or 5 People dwelling in that Cottage which has but one Smoke could easily have Planted a ground-Plat of 40 Foot Square with Flax , or the 50th . part of an Acre ; for so much ground will bear eighth or Ten Shillings-worth of that Commodity , and the rent of so much ground in few places amounts to a Penny ; nor is there any skill requisite to this Practice , wherewith the Country is not already Familiar . Now as for a Merchant for the said Flax , there is imported into Holland it self , over and above what the Country produces , as much Flax as is there sold for between eighth Score and 200000 pound . And into England and Ireland is imported as much Linnen Cloth made of Flax and there Spent as is worth above half a Million of money , as hereafter shall be shewn . Wherefore having shewn that Silver money is useless to the poor People of Ireland , that half the Hearth-money could scarce be raised by Reason thereof , that the People are ⅕ part imployed , that the People and Land of Ireland are competently qualifyed for Flax , that one Penny-worth of Land will produce Ten Shillings-worth of the same , and that there is Market enow and enow for above 100000 pounds-worth ; I conceive my Proposition sufficiently proved , at least to set forward and promote a practice , especially since if all the Flax so produced should yield nothing , yet there is nothing lost , the same time having been worse spent before upon the same Ground : the like Tax of two Shillings per head , may be raised with the like advantage from the People of England which would amount to Six hundred thousand pounds . — per Annum to be paid in Flax manufactured into all sorts of Linens , Threds , Tapes and Laces which we now receive from France , Flanders , Holland and Germany , the value whereof does far exceed the sum last mentioned , as has appeared by the examination of Particulars . It is observed by Clothiers and others who imploy great numbers of poor people , that when Corn is extreamly plentiful the Labour of the Poor is Proportionably dear , and Scarce to be had at all ; ( So licentious are they who Labour only to Eat , or rather to Drink : ) wherefore when so many Acres of Corn as do usually produce sufficient store for the Nation , shall produce perhaps double to what is exported , or necessary ; it seems not unreasonable , that this common Blessing of God should be imployed to the common good of the People , represented by their Sovereign ; much less that the same should be abused by the vile and brutish part of Mankind , to the prejudice of the Common-Wealth ; and consequently that such Surplusage of Corn should be sent to Publick Store-Houses , from thence to be disposed of to the best advantage of the Publick . Now if the Corn spent in England at five Shilings per Bushel Wheat , and two Shillings six Pence Barley be worth 10,000,000 . It follows that in Years in great Plenty when the said Grains are ⅓ part cheaper , that a vast advantage might accrue to the Common-Wealth , which now is spent in once feeding the People in quantity , or quality , and so ▪ in disposing them to their usual Labour . The like may be said of Sugar , Tobacco , and Pepper , which Customs has now made necessary to all sorts of People , and with overplanting them has made unreasonably cheap ; I say , it is not absurd that the Publick should be advantaged by this Extraordinary Plenty . That an Excise should be laid upon Corn also is not unreasonable not only for this but for other Reasons . The way of the present Militia or train-Bands in a Gentle Tax upon the Country , because it is only a few Days Labour in the Year , of a few in respect of the whole , using their own Goods , that is , their own Armes . Now if there be 300,0000 . of Males in England there be above 200,000 . of them who are between the Age of sixteen and thirty unmarryed Persons , and who live by their Labour and Service ; for of so many the present Militia consists , and if 150,000 . of these were Armed and trained as Foot , and 50000 as Horse , the said Force at Land together with 30,000 . men at Sea , would by Gods ordinary Blessing , defend the Nation being an Island against any force in view ; but the charge of Arming , disciplining and rendevouzing all their men twice or thrice a Year would be a very Gentle Tax levied by the People themselves and paid to themselves . Moreover if out of the said number ⅓ part were selected of such as are more then ordinary fit for War , and exercised and rendevouzed fourteen or fifteen times per Annum , the charge thereof being but a fortnights pay in the Year , would be also a very Gentle Tax . Lastly if out of this last mentioned number ¼ again should be selected , making 16,000 . Foot , and 6000 Horse to be Exercised and rendevouzed forty Days in the Year , I say that the charge of all these three Militia's , allowing the latter six Weaks pay per Annum , would not cost per Annum above 120,000 . pounds which I take to be so easie a burthen for so great a Benefit . Forasmuch as the present Navy of England requires 36,000 . men to man it , and for that the English Trade of Shipping requires about 48,000 . men to manage it , it follows that there ought to be about 48,000 . competently qualifyed for these Services ; for want whereof , we see it is a long while before a Royal Navy can be made , which till it be , is of no Effectual use but lies at charge . And we see likewise upon their occasions that Merchants are put to great straights , and inconveniencies , and do pay excise-rates for the carrying on their Trade . Now if 24,000 . able Bodyed Tradesmen whereby 6000 per Annum brought up and fitted for Sea-service , and for their incouragement allowed twenty Shillings per Annum for every Year they had been at Sea , even when they stay at home , not exceeding six pound for those who have served six years or upwards ; it follows that about 72000. pound at the medium of three pound per man would so satiate the whole number ; and so forasmuch as half the Sea-men which manage the Merchants Trade are supposed to be always in Harbour , and are about 40000 together with the said half , the Auxiliaries last mentioned , would upon Emergencies man out the whole Royal Navy , leaving to the Merchant 12000 of the able Auxiliaries to perform their business in Harbour , till others come home from the Sea ; I say that more then this Summ 72000 pounds per Annum is Fruitlesly spent & over-paid by the Merchants whensoever a great Fleet is to be fitted out . Now these whom I call Auxiliary Seamen are such as have another Trade besides wherewith to maintain themselves when they are not imployed at Sea ; and the charge of maintaining themselves the 72000 pounds per Annum I take to be little or nothing for the Reasons above-mentioned , and consequently an easie Tax to the people because levied by and paid to themselves . As we propounded , that Ireland , should be Taxed with Flax , and England by Linnen and other Manufactures of the same ; so I conceive that Scotland might be Taxed as much to be paid in Herrings , as Ireland in Flax. Now these three Taxes of Flax , Linnen and Herrings , and the maintenance of the Triple Militia , and of the Auxiliary Seamen above-mentioned , do all five of them together amount to 1,000,000 . pounds of money , the raising whereof is not a Million spent but gain'd to the Common-Wealth , unless it can be made appear that by Reason of all or any of them the Exportations of Wollen Manufactures , Lead and Tin , are lessened , or of such Commodities as our own East and West India Trade do produce ; for as much as I conceive that the Exportation of these last mentioned Commodities is the Touch-stone , whereby the Wealth of England is Tried , and the Pulse whereby the Health of the Kingdom may be discerned . CAP. III. That France cannot by Reason of natural and perpetual Impediments be more Powerful at Sea then England , or the low Countries . POwer at Sea consists chiefly in men able to fight at Sea ; and that in such Shipping as is most proper for the Seas . Wherein they serve ; and those are in these Northern Sea-Ships from between 300 to 1300 Tuns , and of these such as Draw much Water , and have a deep latih in the Sea , in order to keep a good Wind and not to fall too Leward , a matter of vast advantage in Sea-Service ; wherefore it is to be Examined , first , Whether the French King has Ports in the Northern Seas , where he has most occasion , for his Fleets of War in any Consists above , to receive the Vessels above-mentioned in all Weather , both in Winter and Summer Seats ; for if the French King could bring to Sea an equal number of Fighting men with the English or Hollanders in small Float Leward Vessels , he would certainly be of the weaker side ; for a Vessel of 1000 Tuns man'd with 500 Fighting men with five Vessels of 200 Tuns each man'd with 100 men apiece , shall in common Reason have the better offensively and defensively ; for asmuch as the great Ship can carry such Ordnance as can reach the small ones at a far greater distance , then these can reach , or at lest hurt the other , and can batrer and sink at a distance , when a small one can scarce pierce . Moreover it is more difficult for men out of a small vessel to enter a tall Ship , then for men from an higher place to leap down into a lower ; nor is small Shot so effectual upon a tall Ship , as vice versa . And as for Vessels drawing much Water , and consequently keeping a good Wind , they can toke or tear Leward Vessels at pleasure , and secure themselves from being boarded by them . Moreover the Windward Ship has a fairer mark at a Leward Ship , then vice versa , and can place her shot upon such parts of the Leward Vessel as upon the next tack will be under Water . Now the French King having no Ports able to receive large Windward Vessels between Dunkirk and Vshant , what other Ships he can bring into those Seas will not be considerable ; as for the wide Ocean which his Harbours of Breas● and Brovage do look into , it affordeth him no advantage upon an Enemy , there being so great a Latitude of engaging , or not , even when the Parties are in sight of each other● wherefore altho the French King were immensly rich , and could build what Ships he pleased both for number and quality , yet if he have not Ports to receive and shelter that sort and size of Shipping which is fit for his purpose , his Riches will in this case be Fruitless and a meer expence , without any return or profit . Some will say that other Nations can't build so good Ships as the English , I do indeed hope they can't ; but because it seems too possible that they may sooner or later , by Practice and Experience , I shall not make use of that Argument , having only bound my self to shew that the Impediments of France ( as to this purpose ) are natural and perpetual , Ships and Guns do not fight of themselves , but men who act and manage them ; wherefore it is more material to shew that the French King , neither has , nor can have men sufficient to man a Fleet of equal Strength , to that of the King of England . The King of England's Navy consists of about 70,000 . Tuns of Shipping , which requires 36,000 . men to man ; these men being supposed to be divided into eight parts , 1 / ● part must be Persons of great Experience and Reputation in Sea-Service ; another ⅛ part must be such as have used the Sea seven Years , and upwards ; half of them or ¼ part must be such as have used the Sea above a twelve Month , viz. 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , or six Years , allowing but one quarter of the whole compliment , to be such as never were at Sea at all , or at most but one Voyage , or upon one Expedition ; so that at a medium , I reckon the whole Fleet must be men of three or four Years growth one with another . Fournier , a late judicious Writer making it his business to persuade the World how considerable the Kings of France was , or might be at Sea , in ninety two or ninety three Pages of his Hierography , saith , that there was one place in Britany which had Furnished the King with 1400 Seamen , and that perhaps the whole Sea coast of France might have furnished him with fifteen times as many . Now supposing the whole Allegation were true , yet the same number amounts but to 21,000 , all which if the whole Trade of Shipping in France were quite and clean abandoned , would not by above a third man in a Fleet , be equivalent to that of the King of England , and if the Trade were but barely kept alive there would not be one third part men enough to man the said Fleet. But if the Shipping Trade of France be not above a quarter as great as that of England , and that one third part of the same , namely the Fishing Trade to the Banks of new-found Land is not peculiar nor Fixed to the French ; then I say , that if the King of England who has Power to press men cannot under two or three Months time man his Fleet , then the French King with less then a quarter of the same help can never do it at all ; for in France , as shall be elsewhere shewn , there are not a 15000 Tun of Trading Vessels , and consequently not above 15,000 . Seamen reckoning a man to every tenth Tun , and it has been shewed that the French King can't at present man such a Fleet as is above described . We come next to shew that he never can bring under natural and perpetual impediments viz. First if there be but 15,000 . Seaman in all France to manage it's Trade , it is not to be supposed that the said trade should be distinguished , nor that it should spare above five of the said 15,000 . towards managing of the Fleet , which requires 35,000 . men ; now the deficient 30000 must be supplyed out of these four ways ; ether by taking in Land-men , of which sort there must not be above 10,000 , since the Seamen will never be contented without being the Major part , nor do they Heartily wish well to Land-men at all , or rejoyce even at those Successes of which the said Land-men can claim any share , thinking it hard that themselves , who are bred to Miserable and Painful and dangerous imployments and yet profitable to the Common-Wealth , should at a time when Booty and purchase may be gotten , be Dog'd or hindred with any Conjunction , which Land-men are forced to admit these to any equal share with themselves . Secondly the Seamen which are supposed 20,000 must be had , that is , shired from other Nations , which can't be without Tempting 'em with so much wages as exceeds that given by Merchants ; and withal Counterpoyse the dammage of being hanged by their own Prince , and allowed no quarter if taken , the trouble of carrying themselves away when restraints are upon 'em , and also the infamy of having been Apostates to their Country and Cause . I say their wages must be more than double to what their own Prince gives them ; and their Aurum must be very great , that they shall not at long run be abused by those who imploy them ( as hating the Traytor tho loving the Treason ) I say moreover that those who will be thus tempted away must be of the basest & lewdest sort of Seamen , & such as have not enough of Honor and Conscience to qualifie them for any Gallant performance . 3. Another way to exonerate Seamen is , to put great numbers of Land-men upon Ships of War in order to bring always Seamen ; but this course can't be effectual , not only for the abovementioned Antipathy between Land-men and Seamen , but also because 't is seen that men at Sea do not apply themselves to Labour and Practice without more necessity then happens in over man'd Shipping . For where there are fifty men in a Vessel that Ten can sufficiently Navigate , the Supernumerary forty will improve little ; but where there shall be often but one or two Supernumeraries , then necessity will often call upon every one to set his hand to the work , which must be well done at the Peril of their lives ; moreover Seamen shifting Vessels every six or twelve months , do sometimes Sail in small Barges , sometimes in midlingships , and sometimes in greater Vessels of defence , sometimes in Lighters , sometimes in Hoyes , sometimes in Ketches , sometimes in three wasted Ships , sometimes they go to the northward , sometimes to the Southward , sometimes they Coast , sometimes they Cross the Ocean ; by all which Varieties of Service they do in time compleat themselves is every part and Circumstance of this faculty : Whereas those who go out for a Summer in a man of War , have not the Variety of Practice , nor a direct necessity of doing any thing at all ; besides it is three or four Years at a medium that a Seaman must be made , neither can there be less then three Seamen to make the fourth of a Landman , consequently the fifteen thousand Seamen can increase but five thousand Seamen in three or four Years , and unless their Trade should increase with their Seamen in Proportion , the King must be forced to be at the charge of this improvement , out of the quick Stock which is intolerable , so as the question which now remains is whether the Shipping Trade of France is like to increase , upon which account it is to be considered , that France is stored with all kind of necessaries within it self , as Corn , Cattle , Wine , Salt , Linnen-Cloth , Rape , Silk , Fruit , &c. As they need little Shipping to import more Commodities of Weight and Bulk , neither is there any thing of Bulk exported out of France but Wines and Salt , the Weight whereof is under 1000,000 . Tun per Annum , yielding not imployment to above twenty five thousand Tun of Shipping , and these are for the most part Dutch and English , who are not only already in possession of the said Trade , but also are better fitted to maintain it then the French are , or perhaps ever can be , and that for the following Reasons , viz. Because the French can't Victual so cheap as the English or Dutch , nor Sayl with so few Hands . Secondly the French for want of good Coasts and Harbours , can't keep their Ships in Port under the charge that the English or Hollanders can . Thirdly by Reason of the paucity and distance of their Harbours one from another their Seamen and Tradesmen relating to Shipping can't correspond with , or Assist , one another so easily , cheaply , advantageously , as in other places ; wherefore if their Shipping-Trade is not like to increase within themselves , and much less to increase by their beating out the English and Hollanders from being the Carriers of the World , it follows then , their Seamen will not be increased by their increase of their Trade , wherefore and for that they are not like to be increased by any of their several ways above specifyed , and for that their parts are not fit to retain Ships of Burthen and quality fit for their purpose , and that by Reason of less fitness of their Ports then those of their Neighbours : I conceive that which was propounded has been competently proved . The aforenamed Fournier has Laboured to prove the contrary to all this in the ninety Second and ninety eight Page of his Hydrography , unto which I refer the Reader , not thinking his Arguments of any Weight at all in the present case , nor indeed does he make his comparison with English or Hollanders but with the Spaniards , who , nor the Grand Senior ( the latter of whom has greater advantages to be Powerful at Sea then the French King ) could never attain to any illustrious greatness in Naval Power , having after attempted but never succeeded in the same , nor is it easie to believe that the King of England should for so many Years have continued in his Title to the Soveraignty of the narrow Seas , against his Neighbours ambitious enough to have gotten it from him , had not their impediments been natural and perpetual , and such as we say do obstruct the most Christian King. CHAP. IV. That the People and Territories of the King of England are naturaly as considerable for Wealth and Strength as those of France . THe Author of the State of England among the many useful truths and observations he has , sets down the proportion between the Territories of England and France to be , as thirty to eighty two ; the which if it be true , then England , Scotland , and Ireland , with the Islands unto them belonging , will altogether be near as big as France ; tho I ought to take all advantages for proving the Paradox in hand , I had rather grant that England , Scotland , and Ireland , with the Islands before mentioned , together with planted parts of new Found-Land , new England , new Netherland , Virginy , Mary-Land , Caulin , Jamaica , Barmuda's , Barbado's , and all the rest of the Carib Islands , do not contain more Territory then France , and what planted Land the French King has also in America a. And if any man will be Heterodox in behalf of the French Interest , I could be contented against my Judgment to allow the French King's Territories to be a seventh , sixth , or fifth part greater then those of the King of England , believing that both Princes have more Land then they do imploy to its utmost use . And here I beg leave among the several matters , I intend for serious , to interpose a jocular , and perhaps a Ridiculous digression , and which I indeed desire men to look upon rather as a Dream , then a rational Proposition : Which is if that all the moveables and People of Ireland , and the High-lands of Scotland , were transported into the Kingdom of Great Brittain , that then the King and his Subjects , would thereby become more Rich and Strong ; both offensively and defensively , then now they are . It s true , I have heard many wise men say , when they were bewailing the vast Losses of the English , in preventing and suppressing Rebellions in Ireland ; and considering how little profit has returned either to the King or Subjects of England for these five hundred Years doing and suffering in that Countrey ; I say , I have heard Wise men in such their Melancholies , wish that the People of Ireland being saved , that that Island were sunk under Water . Now it troubles me that the Distempers of my Mind in this point , carry me to Dream , that the Benefits of these Wishes may Practically be obtained without sinking that vast Mountainous Island under Water ; which I take to be somewhat difficult , for altho Dutch Engineers may drein its Bogs , yet I know no Artists that could sink its Mountains . If ingenious and Learned men , amongst whom I reckon Sr. Thomas Moore , and Des Cartes , have disputed that we who think our selves awake , are , or may be really in a Dream : And if the greatest absurdity of Dreams , is but a Preposterous and Tumultuary Contexture of Reallities , I will crave the umbrage of these great Men to say something too , of this wild Conception , with Submission to the better Judgments of all those that can prove themselves awake : If there were but one man Living in England , then the benefit of the whole Territories could be but the third Lively-hood of that one Man : But if another man were added , the Rent or Benefit of the same would be double , if three triple ; and so forewards until so many were Planted in it , as the whole Territory could afford Food unto ; for if a man would know what any piece of Land is worth , the true natural question must be ; how many Men will it feed , and how many Men are there to be fed . But to speak more Practically , Land of the same quantity and quality in England , is generally worth three or four times as much as in Ireland ? And but one quarter , and a third of what it is in Holland ; because England is four times so well Peopled as Ireland , and be a quarter so well as Holland : And moreover , where the Rent of Land is advanced , by reason of the multitude of People , there the number of years purchase for which the Inheritance may be sold is also advanced , tho perhaps not in the very same Proportion ; for twenty Shillings per Annum in Ireland , may be worth but eight pound , and in England where Tithes are very sure about twenty pound , in Holland about thirty pound , I suppose that in Ireland , and the Highlands of Scotland , there may be above 1800,000 People , or about ⅕ part of what is in all the three Kingdoms . Wherefore the first question will be , whether England , Wales , or the Lowland of Scotland , can't afford Food , that is to say , Corn , Flesh , Fish , and Fowl , to a ⅕ more People then are at present planted upon it ; with the same Labour that the said ⅕ part does now take where they are , for if so , then what is propounded is naturally possible . Secondly it is to be inquired into , what the moveables which upon such removable , must be left behind are worth ; for if they are worth less than the advancement of the price of Land in England will amount unto , then the Proposal is to be considered . 3. If the relict Land and the immovables left behind upon them may be sold for money , or if no other Nation shall dare to meddle with them without paying well for them , and if the Nation who shall be admitted shall be less able to prejudice and annoy the Transplanters into England then before ; then I conceive the whole proposal will be a pleasant Dream indeed . As to the first part , whether England and the Lowlands of Scotland will mantain one fifth more then they now do , that is to say , nine Millions of Souls in all , I say , first that the said Territories of England , &c. contain about thirty six Millions of Acres , that is four Acres for every Head , Man , Woman and Child , but the united Provinces do not allow ½ Acre , and England it self , rescinding Wales , has but three Acres to ever Head according to the present State of Tillage and Husbandry . Now if so considered that England having but three Acres to a Head , do so abound in Victuals as that it makes Laws against the importation of Cattle , Flesh and Fish from abroad , and that the Dreining of the Fens , improving of Forrests , inclosing of Commons , Sowing of cinque-Foyl and Clover-Grass be grumbled against by Landlords , are the way to depress the price of Victuals , then it plainly follows , that till then three Acres improved , as it may be , will serve the turn , and consequently that four will Suffice abundantly . I could here set down the very number of Acres that would bear Bread and Drink , Corn , together with Flesh , Butter , and Cheese , sufficient to Victual nine Millions of Persons , as they are Victualled in Ships and regular Families ; but I shall only say in general that 12,000,00 . will do it , with supposing that Roots , Fruits , Fish , and Fowl , and the ordinary profit of Lead , Tin , Iron-Mines , and Woods would piece up any defect that may be found . As to the second I say that the Land and Housing of Ireland , and Highlands of Scotland , at the present Merchant-Rates , are not worth ten Millions of money , nor would the actual charge of making the Transplantation amount to two Millions more ; so then the question will be whether the benefit expected from this Transplantation will exceed two Millions . To which I say that the advantage will probably be six times the last mentioned Summ , or about seventy two Millions . For if the rent of England and Wales and the low Land of Scotland be above nine Millions per Annum ; and if this fifth part of the people be Superadded unto the present inhabitants of these Countries ; then the rent will amount to 10,800,000 . and the number of Years purchase will rise from seventeen ½ to ⅕ more which is twenty one , so that the Land which is worth but nine Millions at seventeen ½ Years purchase making an hundred fifty seven Millions and a half will then be worth 10,800,000 . at one and twenty Years purchase , viz. 226,800,000 . that is , 69,300,000 . more then was before ; and if any Prince willing to enlarge his Territories will give three Millions for the said relinquished Land and Housing , which were estimated to be worth ten Millions , then the whole profit will be above 72,000,000 . or six times the value as the same was above computed ; but if any man should object that will be dangerous unto England to be put into the Lands of any other Nations , I answer in short that that Nation who ever shall purchase it being divided by means of the said purchase , shall not be more able to enjoy England then now in it's united condition . Now if any man shall desire a more clear explanation how and by what means the Rents of Lands shall rise by this closer cohabitation of people above described , I answer that the advantage will arise in Transplanting about eighteen thousand people from the Poor and Miserable Trade of Husbandry , to more Beneficial Handicraft ; for which the Superaddition is to be made , a very little addition of Husbandry to the same Lands will produce a fifth part more Food ; consequently the additional Hands earning but forty Shillings per Annum more , ( as they may very well to eight pound per Annum at some other Trade ; the superlucration will be above 3,600,000 . pound , which at twenty Years purchase is seventy two Millions . Moreover as the Inhabitants of Cities and Towns spend more Commodities and make greater consumption then those who live in wild thin Peopled Countries ; so when England shall be thicker Peopled in manner before described , the very same people shall then spend more then when they lived more sordidly , inurbantly and further asunder , and more out of the sight , observation and Emulation of each other ; every man desiring to put on better Apparel when he appears in company , then when he has no occasion to be seen . I further add to the charge of the government , Civil , Military , and Ecclesiastical , would be more cheap , safe and effectual , in this condition of close habitation then otherwise , as not only Reason , but the example of the united Provinces do demonstrate . But let this whole digression pass from a meer Dream , I suppose will serve to prove that in case the King of Englands Territories should be a little less then those of the French King , that forasmuch as neither of them are over Peopled , that the difference is not material to the question in Hand ; wherefore supposing the French Kings advantages to be little or nothing in point of Territory , we come next to examine and compare the number of Subjects which each of those Monarchs do govern . The Book called the State of France makes the Kingdom consist of twenty seven Parishes ; and another Book written by a Substantial Author , who profoundly enquires into the State of the Church and Church-men of France , sets down as an extraordinary case , that a Parish in France should have six hundred Souls , where I suppose the said Author who has so well examined the matter , is not of opinion that every Parish one with another has above five hundred , by which reckoning the whole people of France are about thirteen Millions 500,000 : Now the people of England , Scotland and Ireland with the Islands adjoyning , by computation from the number of Parishes ( which commonly have more people in Protestant Churches then in Popish Countries ) as also from the Hearth-money , Post-money and Excise , do amount to above nine Millions ; there are in new - England about fifty thousand men mustered in Arms , about eighty thousand able to bear Arms , and consequently about five hundred thousand in all ; but this last I leave to every man's conjecture , and I see no Reason why in all the rest of the Plantations there should not be five hundred thousand more , and consequently I suppose the King of England hath above ten Millions of Subjests , ubivis terrarum orbis . Altho it be very material to know the number of Subjects , belonging to each Prince ; yet when the question is concerning their Wealth and Strength , it is also material to examine how many of 'em do get more then they spend , and how many less : in order whereunto , it is to be considered , that in the King of Englands dominions there are twenty thousand Church-men , but in France , as the aforementioned Author of theirs does aver who sets down the particular number of each Religious order , there are about 270000. viz. 250000. more then we think are necessary ; that is to say , two hundred and fifty thousand with-drawn out of the World ; now the said number of adult and able-Bodyed Persons are equivalent to about double the same number of the Promiscuous Mass of Mankind ; and the same Author affirms that the said Religious Persons do spend one with another above eighteen pence per diem which is Triple to what a Labouring man requires : Wherefore the said two hundred & fifty thousand Church-men , living as they do make the French King 13,500 . thousand to be really no better then twelve Millions or thereabouts . In the next place it is to be considered that the inhabitants of the inner parts of France remote from the Sea can't be probably Superlucrators . Now if there be two Millions in the King of England's Dominions more then in the French Kings who earn more then they spend , or if ten men in England earn more then twelve in France , then the Subjects of England are as effective as to the gaining of Wealth and Riches as those of France , and if Ten men can defend themselves as well in Islands as twelve men upon the Continent , then the said Ten being not concerned to increase their Territory by the invasion of others are as effectual as the twelve in point of Strength also ; wherefore that there are more Superlucrators in the English then in the French Dominions , we say as followeth . There be in England Scotland and Ireland about sixty Millions Seamen , in France about a quarter so many ; but one Seaman earns as much as three common Husbandmen ; wherefore this difference of Seamen added to the account of the King of Englands Subjects , the equivalent of 90,500,000 . Husbandmen . There are in England , Scotland and Ireland six thousand Tuns of Shipping , worth about 4500,000 . 4 ½ . and the actual charge of maintaining the Shipping aforesaid by new building and reparation is about ⅓ of the said Summ , which is the wages of 150. Husbandmen , but it is not the wages of above ⅓ so many Artisans as are imployed upon Shipping of all sorts , viz. Shipwrights , Calkers , Joyners , Carvers , Painters , Blockmakers , Rope-makers , Mastmakers , Smiths of several sorts , Flagmakers , Compassmakers , Brewers , Bakers , and all sorts of Victuallers , all sorts of Trades-men relating to Guns and Gunners-Stores ; wherefore there being four times more of these Artisans in England then in France , they further add to the account of the King of Englands Subjects the equivalent 80 m. Husbandmen more . The Sea line of England Scotland and Ireland and the adjacent Islands is about 3,800 . Miles , according to which length and the whole content of Acres the said Land would be an oblong or Parallelogram Figure of 3,800 . long , and twenty five Miles broad , and consequently every part of England , Scotland and Ireland , is one with another but about twelve Miles from the Sea ; whereas France containing but about one thousand Miles of Sea line is like the computation above sixty five Miles from the Sea-side , and considering the paucity of Ports in comparison to what are in the King of Englands Dominions as good as seventy Miles distance from a Port ; upon which grounds it is clear that England can be supplyed with all Gross and Bulky Commodities of Forreign growth and manufacture at far cheaper rates then France can be ; viz. above four Shillings per Annum Rent cheaper the Land carriage ; for the difference ( betwen England and France ) of the distance from a Port being so much or near thereabouts , now to what advantage this convenience amounts upon the importation and exportation of Bulky Commodities , can't be less the Labour of one thousand of People , meaning by Bulky Commodities all sort of Timber Blank and Staves for Cask , and all Iron , Lead , Stones , Brick , and Tiles for building ; all Corn , Sart and Drink , all Flesh and Fish , and indeed all other Commodities , wherein the gain and loss of four Shillings per cent . is considerable . Where note the like Wines are sold in the inward parts of France for four or five pounds a Tun which near the Ports yield seven pound . Moreover upon this principal the decay of Timber in England is no very formidable thing ; as the rebuilding of London , and of the Ships wasted by the Dutch-War , do clearly manifest : nor can there be any want of Corn or other necessary provision in England , unless the Weather has been universally unseasonable for growth of the same , which seldom or never happens ; for the same cause which makes dearth in one place , does after cause plenty in another , wet-weather being propitious to Highlands , which drowneth the low . It is observed that the poor of France have generally less wages then in England , and yet their Victuals are generally dearer there , which being so , there may be more Superlucration in England then in France . Lastly I offer it to the consideration of all those who have travelled through England and France , whether the Plebeian of England , for they constitute the Bulks of any Nation ; do not spend one sixth more then the Plebeian of France ; and if so it is necessary they must first get it , and consequently that Ten Millions of the King of Englands Subjects are equivalent to twelve of the French Kings , and upon the whole matter to the thirteen ½ Millions , at which the French Nation was estimated . It will be here objected that the Splendor and Magnificences of the French King appearing greater then those of the Kings of England , that the Wealth of France must be proportionably greater then that of England , but that does not follow forasmuch as the apparent greatness of the King does depend upon the quarter parts of the peoples Wealth which he levieth from them ; for supposing the People are equally Rich ; if one of the Sovereigns levy fifth part , and the other fifteenth , the one seems actually thrice as Rich as the other , whereas potentially they are both equal . Having now dicoursed of the Territory , People , Superlucration and defensibleness of both Dominions , and in some measure of the Trade , so far as we had occasion to mention Ships , Shipping and nearness to Ports , we come next to enlarge a little further upon the Trade of each , some have estimated that there are not above three hundred Millions of people in the whole World , whether that be so or no is not very material to be known ; but I have fairer Ground to conjecture , and would be glad to have it more certainly , that there are not above eighty thousand with whom the English and Dutch have commerce , no Europeans I know of Trading directly or indirectly where they do not so as the whole commercial World or World of Trade consists of eighty thousand of Souls as aforesaid . And I further estimate that the value of all the Commodities , yearly exchanged among them , does not exceed fourty five thousand ; now the Wealth of every Nation consisting chiefly in the share which they have in forreign Trade with the whole commercial World ; rather then in the Domestick Trade of ordinary Meat , Drink , Cloth , &c. And which brings in little Gold , Silver , Pearls and other universal Wealth ; we are to consider the Subjects of the King of England ( Head for Head ) have not a greater share hereof then those of France . To which purpose it has been considered that the manufactures of Wool , yearly exported out of England into sevesal parts of the World , viz. all sorts of Cloth , Serg , Stuff , Cotton Bayes , Frize , or also Stockens , Caps , Rugs , &c. exported out of England , Scotland and Ireland ; do amount unto five hundred thousand pound per Annum . The value of Lead , Tin and Coals , to five hundred thousand pound . The value of all Cloths , Houshold-Stuf● &c. carried into America two hundred thousand pound per Annum . Silver and Gold taken from the Spaniards sixty thousand pound . The value of Sugar , Indico , Tobacco , Cottham , and Catao from the Southward part of America six hundred thousand pound . The value of Wool , Butter , Hides , Beef , Herrings , Pilchers , Salmon , exported out of Ireland , eight hundred thousand pound . The value of Coals , Salt , Linnen , Yarn Herrings , Pilchers , Salmon , brought out of Scotland and Ireland five hundred thousand pound . The value of Salt-Peter , Pepper , Callicots , Diamonds , Drugs , and Silks , brought out of the East-Indies , above what was spent in England , eight hundred thousand pound . The value of Slaves brought out of Africa to serve in the American Plantation twenty thousand ; which with the freight of the English Shipping Trading into forreign parts being above fifteen hundred thousand makes in all Ten Millions and a hundred and eighty thousand . Which computation is sufficiently justified by the Customs of three Kingdoms , whose intrinsick value are thought to be near about one Million per Annum : viz. Six hundred thousand Payable to the King , one hundred thousand for the charge of collecting , &c. two hundred thousand Smackled by the Merchants , and one hundred thousand gained by the Farmers , according to the common opinion and men saying ; and this agrees also with that proportion or part of the Trade of the whole World , which I have estimated the Subjects of the King of England to be possessed of , viz. for about Ten of forty five Millions ; but the value of the French commodities brought into England ( notwithstanding Mr. Fortree's estimates ) are not above twelve hundred thousand per Annum , and the value of all the export into all the World besides not above three or four times as much , which computation also agrees well enough with the accompt we have of the Customs of France ; so as France not exporting above half the value of what England does , and for the commodities of France except Wines , Brandy , Paper , and the first Patterns and Fashions for Cloths and furniture , of which France is the mint , are imitable by the English , and having withal more people then England it follows that the people of England &c. have Head for Head , near thrice as much forreign Trade as the people of France , and above two parts of nine of the Trade of the whole commercial World , and 2 / 7 of all the Shipping ; notwithstanding all which is not to be denied that the King , and some great men of France , appear more Rich and splendid then those or the like quality in England ; all which arises , rather from the nature of their Government , then from the intrinsick and natural cause of Wealth and Power . CHAP. V. That the Impediments of England's Greatness are contingent and removable . THe first impediment of Englands Greatness is , the Territories thereunto belonging are too far asunder and divided by the Sea into so many several Islands and Countries ; and I may say into so many Kingdoms and different Governments , viz. There be three distinct Legislative Powers in England , Scotland and Ireland , the which of instead of uniting together do often cross one and others Interest , putting Bars and Impediments upon one and others Trades ; not only as they were forraigners to each other , but sometimes as Enemies . The Islands of Jersey and Guernsey and the Isle of Man are under jurisdictions different from those either of England , Scotland and Ireland . The Government of New-England ( both civil and Ecclesiastical ) do so differ from that of his Majesties other Dominions , that it is hard to say what may be the Consequence of it . And the Government of the other Plantations do also differ very much from any of the West , altho there be naturally substantial Reasons for the Situation , Trade and Condition of the People , why there should be such differences ; from all which it comes to pass the small divided remote Governments being seldom able to defend themselves , the Burthen of the Protecting them all , must lye upon the chiefest Kingdom of England ; and all the small Kingdoms and Dominions , instead of being additions , are really diminutions . The Wealth of a King is three-Fold , one is the Wealth of Subjects , the second is the quota parts of his Subjects Wealth given him for the Publick Defence , Honour and Ornaments of the people , and to manage such undertakings for the common good as no one , or a few private men , are sufficient for . The third sort are the quota of the last mentioned quota parts which the King may dispose of as his own Personal inclination and discretion shall direct ; now it is most manifest that the aforementioned distance and differences of Kingdoms , and jurisdictions , are great impediments to all the said several sorts of Wealth , as may be seen in the following particulars . 1. In case of War with forraign Nations , England commonly beareth the whole Burthen and charge , whereby many in England are utterly undone . 2. England sometimes prohibiting the Commodities of Ireland and Scotland ( as of late it did the Cattle , Flesh , and Fish , of Ireland , ) did not only make Food , and consequently Labour , dearer in England , but also has forced the People of Ireland to fetch these commodities from France , Holland and other places which before was sold them from England , to the great Prejudice of both Nations . 3. It occasions an unnecessary trouble and charge in collecting of Customs upon Commodities passing between the several Nations . 4. It is a dammage to our Barbadoes and other American Trades , that the Goods , which might pass thence immediately to several parts of the World , and be sold at moderate Rates , must first come into England , and there pay Duties , and afterwards ( if at all ) passing to those Countries whither they might have gone immediately . 5. The Islands of Jersey and Guernsey are protected at the charge of England , nevertheless the Labour and Industry of that People ( which is very great ) redound most to the profit of the French. 6. In New-England there are vast numbers of able Bodied English-men imployed chiefly in Husbandry , and in the meanest part of it ( which is ) breeding of Cattle , whereas Ireland would have contained all those Persons , at the worst would have afforded them Lands in better Terms then they have them in America , if not some other better Trade withal , then now they can have . 7. The Inhabitants of the other Plantations , altho they do indeed Plant commodities which will not grow so well in England , it grasping at more Land then it will suffice to produce the said exotics in a sufficient quantity to serve the whole World , they do therein but distract and confound the effects of their own Indeavours . 8. There is no doubt that the same people far and wide dispersed must spend more upon their Government and Protection then the same living compactly , and when they have no occasion to depend upon the Wind , Weather , and all the Accidents of the Sea. A second impediment to the greatness of England , is the different understanding of several material points , viz. The Kings Prerogative , Priviledges of Parliament , the obscure differences between Law and Equity , as also between Civil and Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction , doubts whether the Kingdom of England has Power over the Kingdom of Ireland , besides the wonderful Paradox , that the English-men lawfully sent to suppress Rebells in Ireland should ( after having effected the same ) be ( as it were ) disfranchised , and loose that interest in the Legislative Power which they had in England , and pay Customes as forraingers for all they spend in Ireland , whither they were sent for the Honour and Benefit of England . The third impediment is that Ireland being a conquered Country , and containing not the Tenth part of as many Irish Mastives as there are English in both Kingdoms , that natural and firm Union is not made between the two Peoples by Transplantation and proportionable Mixture , so as there may be a Tenth part of Irish in Ireland , and the same Proportion in England , whereby the necessity of maintaining an Army in England at the expence of the quarter of all the Rents of that Kingdom may be taken away . The fourth impediment is that the Taxes in England are not levied upon the expences , but the whole Estate , not upon Lands , Stock and Labour , but chiefly upon Land alone , and that not by any equal and indifferent Standard , but the casual Predominacy of Parties and Factions ; and moreover that these Taxes are not levied with the least trouble and charge , but let out to Farmers , who also let them from one to another without explicit knowledge of what they do , but so are to conclude the poor people pay twice as much as the King receives . Now the fifth impediment is the inequality of Shires , Diocesses , Parishes , Church-livings , and other Precincts , as also of the Representations of the people in Parliament , all which do hinder the operations of Authority , in the same manner as a Wheel irregularly made , and excentrically hung neither moves so easily , nor performs it's work so timely , as if the same were duly framed and poised . 6. Whether it be an impediment that the Power of making War and raising money be not in the same hand much may be said ; but that I leave to those who may more properly meddle with Fundamental Laws . None of these impediments are natural but did arise as the irregularities of Buildings do by being built part at one time and part at another , and by the changing of the State of things from what they were at the respective times , when the Practice we complained of were first admitted , and perhaps are but the warpings from the rectitude of the first institution . As these Impediments are contingent so they are also removable , for may not the Land of Superfluous Territories be sold , and the people with their moveables be brought away ? may not the English in the American Plantations who Plant Tobacco , Sugar , &c. compute what Land will serve their turns , and then contract their Habitations to that proportion , for quantity and quality ? As for the people of New England I can but wish they were Transplanted into old - England or Ireland , according to Proposals of their own , made within this twenty Years , altho they were allowed more liberty of Conscience then they allow one another . May not the three Kingdoms be united into one , and equally represented in Parliament ? might not the several Species of the Kings Subjects be equally mixt in their habitations ? might not Parishes and other Precincts be better equaliz'd ? might not jurisdictions and Pretences of Powers be determined and ascertained ? might not Taxes be equally aplotted and directly applyed , to their ultimate use ? might not dissenters in Religion be indulged , they paying a competent force to keep the Publick-Peace ? I humbly venture to say all these things may be done ; if it be thought fit by the Soveraign Power , because the like has often and Succesfully been done already at Several Places , and Times . CHAP. VI. That the Power and Wealth of England has increased these last forty Years . IT is not much to be doubted but that the Territories under the Kings Dominions have increased , for as much as New-England , Virginy , Barbados , and Jamaica , Tangier , and Bombay , have since that time been either added to his Majesties Territories , or improved from a desert condition to abound with the People , Building , Shipping , and the Production of many useful commodities . And as for the Land of England , Scotland and Ireland as it is not less in quantity then it was forty Years since , so it is manifest , that by Reason of dreining of Fens , Watering of dry Grounds , improving of Forrests , and Commons , making of Heaths and barren Grounds to bear Cinquefole , and Clovergrass , meliorating and multiplying several sorts of Fruits and Garden-stuff , making some Rivers Navigable , &c. I say it is manifest , that the Land in it's present condition is able to bear more provision and commodities then it was forty Years ago . 2. Altho the People of England , Scotland , and Ireland , which have Extraordinarily Perished by the Plague and Sword within this last forty Years , do amount to about three hundred thousand , above what have dyed in the ordinary way , yet the ordinary increase by Generation of Ten Millions , which doubles in two hundred Years , as has been shewn by the observations upon the Bills of Mortality , may in forty Years ( which is a fifth part of the said Time ) have increased near a fifth part of the whole number or two Millions . Where note by the way , that the accession of Negroes to the American Plantations , being all men of great Labour and little Expence , is not considerable . Besides it is hoped that New-England , where few or no Women are Barren , and must have many Children , and where people live long and Healthfully , has produced an increase of as many people as were destroyed in the late tumults in Ireland . As for Housing these Streets of London it self speaks it , I conceive it double in value in that City to what it was forty Years since ; and for Housing in the Country , they have increased at Bristol , New-Castle , Yarmouth , Norwich , Exeter , Portsmouth , Cowes , Dublin , Kingsale , Londondary , Coolervin in Ireland , far beyond the Proportion of what I can learn has been dilapidated in other places ; for in Ireland where the ruine was greatest , ( the Housing taken altogether ) is now more valuable then forty Years ago ; nor is this to be doubted , since Housing is now more splendid then in those days , and the number of Dwellers is increased by near a fifth part , as in the last Paragraph is set forth . As for Shipping , his Majesties Navy is now triple , or quadruple to what it was forty Years since , and before the Soveraign was Built ; the Shipping-Trading to New-Castle , which are now about eighty thousand Tuns could not then be above a quarter of that quantity ; first because the City of London is doubled ; secondly because the use of Coal is also at least doubled , because they were heretofore seldom used in Chambers as now they are ; nor were there so many Bricks Burned with them as of late , nor did the Country on both sides the Thames make use of them as now ; besides , there are imployed in the Guinny and American Trades above forty thousand Tun of Shipping , which Trade in those days was inconsiderable , the quantity of Wines imported was not near so much as now , and to be short , the Customs upon imported and exported commodities did not then yield a third part of the present Value ; which shews , that not only Shipping , but Trade it self has increased somewhat near that Proportion . As to money the interest thereof , was within these fifty Years at Ten pound per cent . forty Years ago at eight pound , and now at six pound , no thanks to any Laws which have been made to that purpose ; for as much as those who can give good security may now have it less , but the natural fall of interest , is the effect of the increase of money . Moreover if Rented Lands and Houses have increased , and if Trade has increased also , it is certain that money , which payeth those Rents and driveth on Trade , must have increased also . Lastly I leave it to the consideration of all observers , whether the number and Splendor of Coaches , Equipage , and Houshold Furniture have not increased since that time . To say nothing of the postage of Letters , which have increased from one to twenty , which argues the increase of Business and Negotiation ; I must add that his Majesties Revenues is near triple , and therefore the means to pay and Bear the same has increased also . CHAP. VII . That one tenth Part of the whole expence of the King of England's Subjects is sufficient to maintain one hundred thousand Foot , forty thousand Horse , and forty thousand men at Sea , and defray all other Charges of the Government ; both ordinary , and extraordinary , if the same were regularly Taxed and raised . TO clear this point we are to find out what is the middle Expence of each Head in the Kings Dominions between the highest and the lowest ; to which I say it is not probably less then the Expence of a Labourer , who earns about eight pence a day , for the wages of such men is four Shillings a Week without Victuals , or two Shillings with it ; wherefore the value of his Victuals is two Shillings per Week , or five pound four Shillings per Annum . Now the value of Cloaths can't be less then wages given to the Poorest Maid-Servant in the Country , which is thirty Shillings per Annum , nor can the charge of all other necessaries be less then six Shillings per Annum more , wherefore the whole charge is seven pound . It is not likely that this Discourse will fall into the Hands of any that lives at seven pound per Annum ; and therefore such will wonder at this Supposition ; but if they consider how much the number of the Poor and their Children is greater , then that of the Rich , altho the personal Expence of some Rich men should be above twenty times more then that of a Labourer ; yet the expence of a Labourer above mentioned , may well enough stand for the Standard of the expence of the whole Mass of Mankind . Now if the expence of each man one with another be seven pound per Annum , and if the number of the Kings Subjects be Ten thousand ; then the tenth part of the whole Expence will be seven thousand ; but about five thousand , or a very little more will amount to a years pay for one hundred thousand Foot ; forty thousand Horse , and forty thousand men at Sea , Winter and Summer , which can rarely be necessary , and other ordinary charge of the Government in the time of deep and secute peace was not 600000 per Annum . Where a People thrive there the Income is greater then the Expence ; and consequently the tenth part of the Expence is not the tenth part of the Income . Now for men to pay a tenth part of their expence in a time of greatest exigency ( for such it must be when so great forces is requisite ) can be no hardship , much less a deplorable conditon , for to bear the tenth part , a man must needs spend a twentyeth part less , and Labour a twentieth part more for half an hour per diem extraordinary ; both which in common Experience are very Tolerable , here being very few in England , who do not eat by a twentieth part more then does them good : and what Misery were it , instead of wearing Cloaths of twenty Shillings per Yard to be contented with that of nineteen Shillings , few men having skill enough to discern the difference ? Memorandum that all this while , I suppose all of these Ten thousand of people are obedient to their Soveraign , and within the reach of his Power , for as things are otherwise , so the Calculation must be varied . CHAP. VIII . That there are spare Hands enough amongst the King of England's Subjects to earn two Millions per Annum more then they now do , and that there are also Imployments ready , proper and sufficient , for the purpose . TO prove this point , we must inquire how much all the People could earn if they were disposed or necessitated to Labour , and had work whereupon to imploy themselves , and compare the Summ with that of the Total Expence abovementioned ; deducting the Rents and profit of their Land and Stock , which properly speaking saveth so much Labour . Now the proceed of the said Land and Stock in these Countries is about three parts of seven of the whole Expence ; so as where the expence is seventy thousand , the Rent of the Land and profit of all Personal Estate , interest of money &c. must be about thirty thousand , and consequently the value of the Labour forty thousand ; that is , four pound per Head ; but it is to be noted , that about a quarter of the Mass of Mankind are Children Males and Females under seven Years old , from whom little Labour is to be expected ; it is also to be noted that about another tenth part of the whole people are such as by Reason of their great Estates , Tythes , Dignities , Offices , and professions are exempt from that kind of Labour ; we now speak of their business being or ought to be to Govern , Regulate , and direct the Labours and Actions of others , so that of Ten Millions there be about six thousand & a half , or two thirds which if need requires might actually Labour , and of these some might earn three Shillings a Week , some five Shillings and some seven Shillings , that is , all of them might earn five Shillings a Weak at a medium one with another , or at least Ten pound per Annum , allowing for Sickness and other Accidents whereby the whole might earn fifty six thousand pound per Annum , that is , twenty five more then the Expence . The Author of the State of England saies that the Children of Norwich between six and sixteen Years old do earn twelve thousand pound per Annum more then they spend . Now for as much as the people of Norwich are a three hundredth part of all the people in England ( as appears by the Accompt of Hearth-money ) and about the five hundredth part of all the Kings Subjects throughout the World , it follows that all his Majesties Subjects between six and sixteen Years old might earn five thousand per Annum more then they spend . Again forasmuch as the number of People above sixteen Years old are double the number of those between six and sixteen , and that of each men can earn double to each of the Children , it is plain that if the men and Children every where did do as they do in Norwich they might earn twenty five thousand pound per Annum more then they spend ; which estimate grounded upon matter of Fact and Experience , agrees with the former . Altho as has been proved the people of England do thrive , and that 't is possible they might Superlucrate twenty five thousand pound per Annum , yet 't is manifest they do not nor twenty three which is less by two thousand herein meant ; for if they did Superlucrate twenty five thousand , then in about five or six Years time the whole Stock and Personal Estate of the Nation would be double , which I wish were true , but find no manner of Reason to believe ; wherefore if they can Superlucrate twenty five , but not actually Superlucrate twenty three , nor twenty , nor ten , nor perhaps five , I have then proved what was propounded , viz. that there are spare hands among the Kings Subjects to earn two Millions more then they now do . But to speak a little more particularly concerning this matter , it is to be noted , that since the fire of London , there was earned in four Years by Tradesmen ( relating to building only ) the Summ of four Millions , or one Million per Annum without lessening any other sort of Work Labour or Manufacture , which was usually done in other four Years before the said occasion ; but if the Tradesmen relating to Building only , and such of them as wrought in and about London could do one Million-worth of Work extraordinary , I think that from thence and from what has been said before , that all the rest of the spare Hands might very well double the same , which is as much as was propounded . Now if there were spare Hands to Superlucrate Millions of Millions , they signifie nothing unless there were Imployment for them , & may as well follow their Pleasures and Speculation as Labour to no purpose ; therefore the more material point is to prove that there is two Millionsw-orth of Work to be done , which at the present the Kings Subjects do neglect . For the proof of this there needs little more to be done than to compute how much money is paid by the King of Englands Subjects to Forreingers for freight of Shipping . 2. The Hollanders gain by their Fishing-Trade Practised upon our Seas . 3. What the value of all the commodities imported into and sent into England , which might by diligence be produed and Manufactured , here to make short of this matter upon perusal of the most authentick accompts relating to these several particulars I affirm that the same amounteth to above five Millions whereof I propounded but two Millions . For a further proof whereof Mr. Samuel Fortry in his ingenious discourse of Trade exhibited the particulars , wherein it appears that the Goods imported out of France only amount yearly to 2600,000 . pounds , and I affirm that the Wines , Paper , Cork , Rosin , and Capers , and a few other Commodities which England can't produce , do not amount to one fifth part of the said Summ ; from whence it follows that ( if Mr. Fortry has not erred ) the two Millions here mentioned may arise from France alone , and consequently five or six Millions from all the three Heads last above specifyed . CHAP. IX . That there is money sufficient to drive the Trade of the Nation . SInce his Majesties happy Restauration it was thought fit to call i● , and now Coyn the money which was made it the times of Usurpation . Now it was observed by the general consent of Casheers that the said money ( being by frequent revolutions well mixed with the Gold ) was about a seventh part thereof , and that the said money being called in was about 800,000 . pound , and consequently the whole 5600,000 . pound or five Millions and a half , whereby 't is probable ( that some allowance being given for hoarded money ) the whole Cash of England was then about six Millions , which I conceive is sufficient to drive the Trade of England , not but that the rest of his Majesties Dominions have the like means to do the same respective fully . If there be six Millions of Souls in England , and that each spendeth seven pound per Annum , then the whole expence is forty two Millions or about 800,000 . pounds per Week ; and consequently if every man did pay his expence Weekly and that the money could circulate within the compass of a Week , then less then one Million could answer the ends proposed . But forasmuch as the Rents of the Lands in England which are paid half yearly are eight Millions per Annum , there must be four Millions to pay them ; and forasmuch as the Rent of Housing of England paid quarterly are worth about four Millions per Annum , there needs but one Million to pay the said Rent ; wherefore six Millions being enough to make good the three sorts of Circulation above mentioned , I conceive what was proposed is proved , at least till something better be held forth to the contrary . CHAP. X. That the King of England's Subjects have Stock competent and convenient to drive the Trade of the whole commercial World. NOw for the further Incouragement of Trade , as we have shewn , that there is Money enough in England to manage the affairs thereof , so we shall now offer to consideration whether there be not competent and convenient Stock to drive the Trade of the whole commercial World. To which purpose it is to be remembred , that all the Commodities yearly exported out of every part of the last mentioned World , may be bought for forty five Millions , and that the Shipping imployed in the same World are not worth above fifteen Millions , and consequently that sixty Millions at most will drive the whole Trade abovementioned without any trust at all ; but forasmuch as the Grovers of Commodities do commonly trust them to such Merchants or Factors as are worth but such a part of the full value of their Commodities as may possibly be lost upon the sail of them which is rather to be expected ; it follows then less then a Stock of sixty Millions , nay then half of the said Summ is sufficient to drive the Trade above mentioned ; it being well known that any Tradesemen of good Reputation worth five hundred pound will be trusted with above one thousand pounds-worth of Commodities , where less then thirty Millions will suffice for the said purpose , of which Summ the Coyn , Shipping and Stock already in Trade do at least make one half . And it has been shewn how by the Policy of a Bank any Summ of money may be made equivalent in Trade unto near the double of the same . By all which it seems that even at present much is not wanting to perform what is propounded ; but suppose twenty thousand or more were wanting , it is not improbable that since the generality of Gentlemen and some Noble-men do put their Younger Sons to Merchandise , that they will see it reasonable as they increase in the number of Merchants so to increase the Magnitude of Trade , and consequently to increase Stock ; which may effectually be done by in-banking twenty Mil. worth of Land not being above a sixth or seventh part of the whole Territories of England , that is to say , by making a Bond of such value , to the security for all Commodities bought and sold , upon the account of that Universal Trade above mentioned . And thus it having appeared , that England having in it as much Land , like Holland and Zealand , as the said two Provinces do themselves contain , with abundance of other Land , not inconvenient for Trade , and that there are spare Hands enough to earn many Millions of money , more then they now do ; and that there are also Imployments to earn several Millions ( even from the Consumption of England it self ) it follows from ▪ thence , and what has been said in the last Paragraph about inlarging of the Stock both of Monies and Lands , that it is not impossible , may ●very visible matter for the keeping of Englands Subjects , to gain the Universal Trade of the whole Commercial World. Nor is it unseasonable to imitate this matter , forasmuch as the younger Brothers of good Families of England , can't otherwise be provided for ▪ so as to live according to their Birth and Breeding ; for if the Lands of England are worth eight Millions per Annum , then there be at a Medium about ten Millions . Families of about eight hundred pounds per Annum , in each of which one with another , we may suppose there is a younger Brother , who in less then two or three hundred pounds per Annum , will not maintain suitable to his Relations . Now I say that if neither the Offices at Court , nor Commands in our ordinary Army and Navy , nor Church-preferments , nor the usual gain by the profession of Law and Physick ; nor the imployments under Noble-men , and Prelates will all of them put together furnish Livelyhood of above three hundred pounds per Annum , to three thousand of the said one thousand younger Brothers , wherefore it remains that Trade alone must supply the rest ; but if the said seven thousand Gentlemen be applyed to Trade , without increasing of Trade , or if the hopes to increase Trade without increasing of Stock ( which for ought appears is only to be done by in-Banking a due proportion of Lands and Money ) we must necessarily be disappointed : where note that selling of Lands to Forraigners , for Gold and Silver , would inlarge the Stock of the Kingdom . Whereas doing the same between one and other does effect nothing , for he that turns all his Land into Money , disposes himself for Trade , and he that parts with his money for Land does the contrary , but to sell Land to Forreigners increaseth both money and people , and consequently Trade ; wherefore it is to be thought , that when the Laws denying Strangers to purchase , and not permiting them to Trade without paying Extraordinary Duties , were made , that then the Publick State of things , and Interest of the Nation were far different from what they now are . Having handled these ten Principal Conclusions , I might go on with others ad infinitum ; but what has been said already , I look upon as sufficient to shew what I mean by Political Arithmetick , and to evince the uses of knowledge of the true State of the Peoples Lands , Stock , Trade , &c. Secondly that the Kings Subjects are not in so bad a Condition , as discontented men would make them ; Thirdly to Demonstrate the greatest effects of Unity , Industry , and Obedience , in order to the common Safety , and each mans particular Happiness , other then which I have now . FINIS . 
A45110	----	A general history of Scotland together with a particular history of the Houses of Douglas and Angus / written by Master David Hume of Godscroft. Hume, David, 1560?-1630? 1648 Approx. 1540 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 241 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2003-01 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A45110 Wing H3656 ESTC R33612 13534030 ocm 13534030 100014 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A45110) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 100014) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 1551:25) A general history of Scotland together with a particular history of the Houses of Douglas and Angus / written by Master David Hume of Godscroft. Hume, David, 1560?-1630? [3d ed.] [17], 440 p. Printed by Evan Tyler, Edinburgh : [between 1648 and 1657] Edition statement suggested by Wing. Date of publication suggested by Wing. Second part has special tip. Errata on p. 440. Reproduction of original in the Cambridge University Library. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. Gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. 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Quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in Oxford and Michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet QA standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. After proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. Any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor. The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines. Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Douglas family. Nobility -- Scotland. Scotland -- History. 2002-05 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2002-06 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2002-08 Emma (Leeson) Huber Sampled and proofread 2002-08 Emma (Leeson) Huber Text and markup reviewed and edited 2002-10 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion A GENERALL HISTORY OF SCOTLAND , Together with a Particular HISTORY OF THE HOVSES OF DOUGLAS AND ANGUS . Written by Master DAVID HUME of GODSCROFT . EDINBURGH , Printed by EVAN TYLER . The Authour to the Reader . I Know ( Reader ) that he who undertakes to write , makes himself a mark of censure for men to level at . For to please all men , shall then only be possible , when all men shal be of one minde ; til then , we look for as many dislikings , as there is diversities of opinions , each man condemning what is not according to his own humour and palate . Some will storm or scorn ( perhaps ) our writing as an un-necessary scribling , and paper blurring : others will quarrell at the subject , that we should write a History ; others that such , so composed , and formal of a private family , with such commendation . Again , some will accuse us of partiality ; and some will even question the truth of it . Neither will there bee wanting such as will blame the forme and fashion of the work , as too short , or too long ; and many ( I doubt not ) will carp at the Stile , the Phrase , the Periods , the Diction and Language . In all these particulars , to satisfie all men , is more then we can hope for : yet thus much shortly of each of them , to such as will give eare to reason : That I write , and of this subject , I am constrained to do it ; not by any violence or compulsion , but by the force of duty , as I take it : for being desired to do it by those I would not refuse , I thought my self bound to honour that name , and in , and by it , our King & Countrey . And so I have done what I can , & should have been glad to have done more , if it had lyen in my power . As for the writing of a History I could never have dreamed that I should have needed to make Apologie for it : neither did I ever hear it accounted prophane , till I had done . Then by chance I lighted on a certain Authour who excuseth himself for so doing , and promiseth to doe so no more . It may be neither shall I. Yet dare I not promise so much : neither see I any reason why I should : for if by profane , they mean that History maketh men profane , and leadeth to profanitie and atheisme ; then certainly we may justly say , that it is nothing lesse . For in it we see and behold , as in a Glasse , Gods Providence guiding and ruling the World , and mens actions , which arrive often to unexpected events , and sometimes even to such ends as are quite contrary to the Actors intentions . In History also we see men , and our selves in them , our vertues or vices , which is the second point of wisdom : this leads us also to God. But if ( by profane ) they mean whatsoever is not Scripture , and would have men to read and write nothing but what belongs unto it ; then must we condemne all humane learning & knowledge , all Arts and Sciences , which are the blessings of God , and in which Moses and Paul were trained up , and well seen . It is true , there is no knowledge comparable to that of holy Scripture , and we cannot be too conversant about it ; yet there is no kind of knowledge but is usefull , & may and ought to be esteemed and embraced Our last end should ever be to God and Christ : but to speak alwayes of him directly , is neither required nor possible . As he is the end , so the way to this end is by speaking of him , or of things which may lead us to him : yet is it not necessary at all times to speak of such things professedly as lead us that way . He is our end in himself , and for himself , and happy were we if in him we could terminate all our desires . Vertue leads to him , and is to be embraced as such : but to obtrude it at first for that consideration , and on that respect , it may be doubted whether or not that be alwayes the right Method and best way of proceeding . The other may happen to prove more available with some , which is , to learne first to be enamoured & to love honour ; then vertue for honour ; then vertue for it self ; then to account nothing vertue without God , who not being to be found but in Christ , must needs be sought for above all things . Now History is , as it were , the A B C. of this Method , and the beautifull Picture ; by looking on which , our desire of honour is kindled , and so of vertue , which onely brings true honour with it . Neither is it needfull to proclaim this intention to the world : yea , I know not whether to say thus much be not even too much . It is enough to set the object before them , and to furnish them matter for their thoughts to work upon : as for the measure of praise wee give them , if after thou hast read and weighed , thou shalt think it too much , all that I can say , is , that I think it but their due , and speak as I think , & according to the scantling of my own judgment . Touching partiality , I deny it hot , but am content to acknowledge my interest . Neither do I think that ever any man did set pen to paper without some particular relation of Kindred , Countrey , or such like . The Romanes in writing the Romane , the Grecians in writing their Greek Histories ; friends writing to , of , or for friends , may be thought partiall as Countrey-men and friends . The vertuous may be deemed to be partiall toward the vertuous , and the godly toward the godly and religious : All Writers have some such respect , which is a kinde of partiality . I do not refuse to be thought to have some , or all of these respects , and I hope none wil think I do amisse in having them . Pleasing of men , I am so farre from shunning of it , that it is my chief end and scope : But let it please them to be pleased with vertue , otherwise they shal find nothing here to please them . If thou findest any thing here besides , blame me boldly . And why should any be displeased that wil be pleased with it ? would to God I could so please the world , I should never displease any . But if either of these ( partiality or desire to please ) carry me besides the truth ; then shall I confesse my self guilty , and esteem these as great faults , as it is faultie and blame-worthy to forsake the truth . But otherwise so the truth be stuck unto , there is no hurt in partiality and labouring to please . And as for truth , clip not , nor champ not my words ( as some have done elsewhere ) and I beleeve the worst affected will not charge mee with lying . I have ever sought the truth in all things carefully , and even here also , and that painfully in every point : where I find it assured , I have set it down confidently ; where I thought there was some reason to doubt , I tell my Authour : So that if I deceive , it is my self I deceive , and not thee ; for I hide nothing from thee , that I my self know , and as I know it ; leaving place to thee , if thou knowest more or better . Which if thou doest , impart and communicate it ; for so thou shouldest do , and so is truth brought to light , which else would lye hid and buried . My paines and travel in it have been greater then every one would think , in correcting my errours ; thine will not bee so much . And both of us may furnish matter for a third man to finde out the truth more exactly , than either of us hath yet done . Help therefore , but carp not . Concerning the manner & form , this is partly the cause why I have used this , which I do here follow , that all things being laid open , & exposed to thy view , thou mayest have to choose on , or to finde somewhat of thine own ; & where I could not resolve a doubt , thou mayest see it , and have some mean ( perhaps ) to solve it better . I have also in many places interposed my judgement of mens actions : I think it the life of History , & without which it were little better , than an old wifes tale . It is true , it were not so needfull . if all men were alike judicious : but seeing they are not so , it is absolutely necessary ; that so those who read carelesly and sleepingly may bee awaked ; who minde onely pleasure , may have profit thrust upon them ; that the dull may be quickned , and the judicious have his judgement sharpened , and a finer edge put upon it , by this whet-stone . I know there are that think otherwise , and that all should be left to the collection and discretion of the Reader : But this is my opinion , and I know no Writer of note , or account , but interposeth his censure of things . What name you give this piece , I am very indifferent ; Call it History , Chronicle , Comentarie , Annals , Journal lives , or ( if you please ) discourses or exercitations , it matters not much . Let who will , for me , define , divide , and dispute of the nature , of the bounds and Marches of Airts , and writings , and of their Lawes , this kinde is my lot or choice at this time . For the same cause or reason ( that men may not take any thing upon meer trust , I sift the judgment of others , and am content that thou like wise canvase mine . I do it without partiality , or respecting any mans person : though otherwise , and in other things I reverence them never so much , yet I cannot but respect reason more : where they bring not that strong enough to satisfie , I do not conceale of dissemble it , I do not refuse the same measure from others : if thou doest not like my reason , reject it , but let reason be thy rule , for it is mine according to my capacity . For the Language it is my Mother-tongue , that is , Scottish : and why not , to Scottish-men ? Why should I contemne it ? I never thought the difference so great , as that by seeking to speak English , I would hazard the imputation of affectation . Every tongue hath the own vertue and grace . Some are more substantiall , others more ornate and succinct . They have also their own defects and faultinesse , some are harsh , some are effeminate , some are rude , some affectate and swelling . The Romanes spake from their heart , The Grecians with their lips only , and their ordinary speech was complements ; especially the Asiatick Greeks did use a loose and blown kinde of phrase . And who is there that keeps that golden mean ? For my own part , I like our own , & he that writes well in it , writes well enough to me . Yet I have yeelded somewhat to the tytannie of custome , and the times , not seeking curiously for words , but taking them as they came to hand . I acknowledge also my fault ( if it be a fault ) that I ever accounted it a mean study , and of no great commendation to learn to write , or to speak English , and have loved better to bestow my pains and time on forreigne Languages , esteeming it but a Dialect of our own , and that ( perhaps ) more corrupt . I say the same of the Stile : I follow no rules , but according to my disposition for the time , so it is high or low , long or short , sweet or sharp , as was my humour for that houre , As in Poesie , so in Prose ; who can choose ? Or how many are there that care for these things , or can discern ? The Age is too secure for Writers to be too curious . And thus much shall suffice to have spoken of these things , and to satisfie ( I hope ) the candide Reader . As for those who delight to carp , we say no more to them , but onely this , That as they take a libertie to themselves to judge others , so there will bee found some that will pay them home in their own coyne . Farewell . A CATALOGUE OF THE Lives contained in this History . PART . I. Of the House of DOUGLAS . 1. SHolto fol. 1. 2. William , father of the Scoti in Italy . 5. 3. William the first Lord , created at the Parliament of Forfair . 10. 4. John the second Lord. 11. 5. William the third Lord. 12. 6. Archbald the fourth Lord. ibid. 7. William , maker of the Indenture with the Lord Abernethie . ibid. 8. Hugh , whom his foes found never sleeping . 15. 9. William the Hardie . 16. 10. Good Sir James , slain in Spain . 20. 11. Archbald Lord Galloway , slain at Halidoun . 53. 12. Hugh the ninth Lord. ibid. 13. William Lord Liddisdale , the flower of Chivalry . 62. 14. William the first Earle . 79. 15. James , slain at Otterburne . 92. 16. William Lord Nithsdale . 108. 17. Grimme Archbald . 111. 18. Archbald Tine-man . 114. 19. Archbald Earle of Wigton . 133. 20. William , slain in Edinburgh Castle . 144. 21. Grosse James . 157. 22. William , slain in Stirlin . 161. 23. James put into Lindores . 194. PART . II. Of the House of ANGUS . OF the House of Angus before it came to the name of Douglas . 205. 1. William Earle of Douglas , and Angus . 207. 2. George his son . 208. 3. William . 209. 4. James . 210. 5. George the second . ibid. 6. Archbald , called Bell the Cat. 219. Of George Master of Angus , and son to Archbald the first . 237. 7. Archbald that married the Queen . 238. 8. David . 277. 9. James , Earle Morton , Regent . 278. 10. Archbald the third , called good Earle Archbald . ibid. THE PREFACE . Of the DOUGLASSES in generall : that is , Of their 1 Antiquitie , ( to which is joyned their Originall ) 2 Nobility and descent , 3 Greatnesse , 4 and Valour of the Familie and Name of DOUGLAS . I Think it will not be amisse to place here before the doore ( as it were ) and entrie into this discourse and Treatise ( like a Signe or Ivie-bush before an Inne ) an old verse , which is common in mens mouths . So many , so good , as of the Douglasses have been , Of one sirname were ne're in Scotland seen . This saying being ancient , and generally received , will serve to invite the curious and candid Reader , and like a charme will fright away malignant spirits , and detractors , who labour to lessen and extenuate what they cannot deny . Neither is this a publick fame only roavingly scattered , and soone vanishing , but such as hath continued from age to age , and which is authorized and confirmed by all Writers , and which is most of all true in it selfe , ( as shall appeare by this discourse ) and nothing immodest or immoderate . For if we consider these two together joyntly ( so many and so good ) that is , their number and their worth , we shall sinde none that can match them in both these put together . There may be found of other names some as good , but not so many . And again , though there be as many , yet are they not so good . This truth I have not heard impugned , but it hath hitherto been imbraced without all contradiction ( even of calumnie it selfe ) I know not if without envie . But let that monster eat her own heart , and teare her owne bowels : and that she may do so yet more , we will give her further occasion to doe it , by enlarging this comparative thus ; So many , so good , &c , of subjects race were never in Europe seen : And yet farther , In the world were never seen . This is not any rhetoricall amplification , or poeticall hyperbole , but a positive and measured truth . If any , after he hath read and pondered their actions , and paralleld them with those whose names any Historie hath transmitted to the knowledge of posterity : If any man ( I say ) shall find after due search and straight judgement , either in this our countrey , or in this our Isle of Brittain , or in this fourth part of the world , Europe ; or throughout the whole Universe , such valour to have continued in any one house or name ( that were Subjects , and not Kings , or Princes ) and to have been so hereditary to all of them ; and as if it had been intailed , descending by succession from father to son , and from brother to brother , ( the successour still striving to out go his predecessour ) in that height of excellency , and for so many generations : Then let this saying be suspected as partiall , or branded with an untruth . Otherwayes be contented to bear witnesse to the truth , or at least give others leave to do it , and receive thou it as such , without murmuring , or impatiencie . Now as they have surpassed all other names , so if we compare them amongst themselves , it will prove a hard and difficult judgement to determine who deserves the prize and hath been most excellent . There ●…ath been twenty persons and mo●… , who have possest the chief houses , and principall families of Douglas and Angus from William ( to go no higher ) who died in Berwick a prisoner , besides those worthy branches ( the Lord of Niddisdaill , Liddisdaill , Galloway , Ormond murray , Balvain , Dalkeith , &c. There is none almost , whose life and the times afforded occasion of action , but hath made himself singularly conspicuous by some notable exploit or other , as is to be seen in their severall lives . For the present we will onely take a generall view of them in grosse , according to these heads : 1. Antiquity ( which includes their originall ) 2. Nobilitie . 3. Greatnesse . 4. Valour . And first , we will consider them without any comparison in themselves simply , and absolutely , then we will compare them with others both within , and without the Countrey ; and so I hope the truth of our assertion shall appear clear and evident unto the eyes of all those , that will not obstinately shut their eyes against so bright shining a light . To begin then with their Antiquity and Originall , so far as we can learn and find either in History , or Monument , by evident or tradition , which we will set down here in order of time , as we have gathered and collected them . 1. And first , we have that tradition which is most ancient of all others in the dayes of Solvathius King of Scotland in the year 767. when Donald Bane usurped the title of King , and had in a battell almost defeated the Kings army , a certain Nobleman ( called afterward Sholto Douglas ) came in to their succour , and overthrew the said Donald , whom he slew in the field and scattered his army , as is set down at length in his life . 2. The second witnesse of their Antiquity and Originall is brought from beyond sea , out of Italy , in the family of the Scoti of Plaisance which is proved to have sprung from the Douglases at large in the life of William the fourth man of that name . The time is in the dayes of Charlemaign in the year 779. or ( as our Writers ) 800. or 801. In the reign of Achaius King of Scotland . 3. Our third witnesse is a publike Monument out of a Monastery ( which were the Registers of those times ) the Monastery of Icolmekill , which tell that Malcolme Kenmore at the Parliament of Forfair in the yeare 1057. or 1061. ( did not advance to that dignity , for they had the equivalent of it before ) but adorned with the new stile of Lord , is some of the name of Douglas , which stile was then first brought into this Countrey by imitation of other Nations . 4. Our fourth witnesse is in the year 1133. The foundation of the Abbey of Lesmie Hagoe confirmed by King David , wherein it is expresly bounded by the Barronie of Douglasdaile . Now seeing this is but a confirmation , the dotation must have gone before in some other Kings dayes . 5. The fifth witnesse is in the dayes of King William ( Nephew to this David ) who began his reigne in the yeare 1163. He erected the towne of Aire into a free brough Royall , and amongst the witnesses of their Charter are Alexander and William Douglasses . 6. The sixth is a mortmain , and dotation granted to the Bishop of Murray , where the same names are inserted ( William and Alexander Douglasses ) for witnesses . It is not certain whether these be the same that were witnesses in the former Charter of Aire , but it is likeliest they were the same . In what yeare of King Williams reigne this was we have not yet learned , but he reigned till the year 1214. 7. The seaventh is , the Indenture made between William Lord Douglas , and Hugh Lord Abernethie in the dayes of King Alexander the third , 1259. Some fourty five years after this last King William , the particulars of this Indenture are set down in the life of the said William , who is the ninth man of the name of Douglas . 8. Eighthly , we have also ( though much later ) in the dayes of King Robert Bruce , and good Sir James Douglas , mention made of two Douglasses , ( besides Sir James ) one James Douglas of Lowden , and Andrew Douglas in the publike rolls ( three rolls marked , 1. 16. ) King Robert gives to James of Lowdon a confirmation of the lands of Calderclecre , and Kinnaule , and Carnewath : To Andrew Douglas he gives Corsewell , which was fallen into his hands by the forfeiture of the Earle of Winton , or Wigton . Now what these two were , and whether or not they were in kinne to the Lords of Douglas we know not . Onely I have heard it reported that the lands of Lowden were gotten from the Lords of Douglas ; and Calder-cleere is known to have been given off from their estate . Now howbeit these two be not very ancient , yet it may be gathered that the name of Douglas was ancient , even then being propagated into so many branches , which could not have been done of a sudden , but in processe of time : These things do confute those Authours who reckon the Originall of the Douglasses from good Sir James , or at the most from his father William : Because our Writers , Major , Boetius , and Buchanan , name none before them . But they intending , and minding more the generall History of the Countrey , then the descent , or beginning of particular houses , may perhaps be excused herein ; yet it doth not follow , that there were none before , because they have past them in silence . And so much shall suffice to have spoken of their Antiquity , and Originall as far as we know . I say expresly as far as we know ; for certainly we do not yet know them fully ; We do not know them in the fountain , but in the stream ; not in the root , but in the stock and stemme ; for we know not who was the first mean man , that did by his vertue raise himselfe above the vulgar to such eminent place and state , as our Sholto behoved to have been of , before he wan the battell , and got the name of Douglas , which hath drowned his former name : for none but some great man of great friendship and dependance could have been able to have overcome this Donald Bane , ( Being already victor ) and changed the fortune of the day : And William indeed was created a Lord ai Forfair , but we hear not that he was raised from a mean estate , or inriched by the Kings liberality ; wherefore we may justly think , he had the same place in effect before , but under some other name , as of Thane , Abthane , or some such title . The next point we propound to speak of is their Nobility . There is great contest among men , who should be most Noble ; but where will true Nobility be found so entire ? In what subjects race is it so full and perfect , according to all the acceptions , and significations thereof ? They define it to be a lifting or raising up above the vulgar : and what name , I pray , hath been so elevated , and hath so transcended all other , as this of the Douglasses ? They adde this condition , that it be for true worth ; and hath there been any so worthy ? Those that will distinguish it into severall kinds , make five sorts of it ; 1 Nobility of vertue ; 2 of degrees ; 3 of Offices and Employment ; 4 of Birth and discent ; 5 Lastly of Fame and renown . 1. Of all these the first is the ground , without which the rest are never well built , and are but shadowes without the substance : virtus nobilitat vertue doth ennoble , is a saying , which is no lesse true then ancient ; for it makes him in whom it doth reside , truely noble by its own power beyond all exception . It hath not the dependance on Kings or Princes to give or take it away : It is ever the self , whether exalted , or not exalted ; regarded , or neglected ; respected , or disrespected . Nay , it doth ever carry along with it such respect and regard , as no basenesse of place , of birth , of means or imployment , can stain or lessen ; making lownesse it self to overtop whatsoever is highest in the eyes of the world . It addes honour to whatsoever place , majestie to whatsoever estate , sufficiencie to whatsoever means , splendour to whatsoever obscurity : which no contempt of tongues , no detracting speeches , no dis-esteem of presuming pride , is able to impair or darken . Where honour and vertue do meet , there honour is an externall addition and confirmation of the inward testimony in the mind of the vertuous : but where vertue is wanting , outward honours are but false ensignes , lying inscriptions of empty boxes . That this name was vertuously noble , and noblie vertuous , the deduction of their lives will sufficiently show . 2. As for the second , Nobility of Degrees , of Dignities and Titles given by Kings and Princes ; such as are these of Knights , Barons , Lords , Earles , Dukes , &c. all these they had conferred upon them both at home and in forraign Countries . This kind of Nobility is in account amongst men ; because although oftentimes it proceeds meerely from the Princes favour upon small or no desert , yet it is supposed to be grounded upon vertue , or that it should alwayes be grounded thereon : Now in the Douglasses it was ever so , for they were never greater then they deserved : and whatever titles of honour they had , were rather thrust upon them , then ambitiously sought and hunted after : Nay , we reade of grimme Archibald , that he rejected and refused the title of Duke . 3. The third sort is very like and near unto this , if it be not a part of it consisting in publike offices and imployment either in peace or war , such as to be Wardens of the Marches , Lievetenants , Governours , Leaders , and Conductors of armies : This was almost proper , and ( in a manner ) hereditary to the house , in which places also they so behaved themselves , that for their good services done to the King , and Countrey , their Family and Posterity do enjoy ( at this houre ) many priviledges and immunities granted to them in their Charters , such as 1. Regalities , ( and exemptions thereby . ) 2. The first place and vote in Parliament , Counsell , or meeting , and convention of the States . 3. The leading of the vantguard in the day of battell : 4. And the bearing of the Crown at riding in Parliament . 4. The fourth is Nobilitie of bloud , and Descent . This some doe place only in the descent of the right line masculine without interruption , and esteem him most Noble , whose extraction proceedeth from most of this kinde . Others againe will have it to be on both sides ; and certainly it seemes to stand with reason that both should be regarded , seeing every ground is not fit for Noble seed , and every slock will not serve to ingraffe a generous imp . However , we shall finde the Douglasses Noble also in this way , in their descent on both sides , in their affinitie and alliance , being come of Kings , and Kings of them : and first of all King Robert Bruce and William the Hardie ( or Long legge ) were of kin by the house of Carrick . For Martha Countesse of Carrick and this William were Cousin Germans , his mother having beene sister to her father the Earle of Carrick that died in Syria . Now Martha was mother to King Robert , and hereby King Robert and Good Sir James were Cousin Germans once removed . But this was ere Bruce was King , while he was yet but a private man. 2. Secondly therefore , Robert Stuart ( the first of the Stuarts that was King , and who was grandchilde to Robert Bruce ) gave his eldest daughter in marriage to Earle James , slain at Otterburne . 3. The same King Robert gave another of his daughters to William Lord of Nithisdale . 4. The Duke of Rothsay , Prince of Scotland ( son to King Robert the third ) married Marjorie daughter to Archbald the Grim. 5. Archbald ( the third of that name , and first Duke of Turaine ) had to wife Margaret Stuart daughter to the same King Robert ( the third ) as the black booke of Scoone expresly witnesseth , which calls him , Gener Regis , the Kings son-in-law . Ballandine ( the Translatour of Boetius ) calls him the Kings Meugh , or Allie , and king James the second claimeth Stuarton from James the last Earle of Douglas in the conditions of peace sent to him . Now Stuarton is knowne to have been the proper inheritance of Iohn Stuart , and after him of Walter , then of Robert ( the first king of the Stuarts ) and so of Robert the third , which ( in all likelihood ) he hath given with his daughter ( as her dowrie ) to this Archbald . 6. Also Iohn Earle of Buchan ( the kings brothers son ) married a daughter of this Archbald , whom he hath had apparently by some other wife . 7. Then Alexander , son to the Earle of Buchan , married Isabel Douglas Countesse of Marre , daughter to William the first Earle of Douglas . 8. William the first Earle married Margaret Stuart daughter to Thomas Earle of Angus , who was uncle to king Robert the second , and first king of the Stuarts . 9. George Douglas , son to the same William who was the first Earle of Angus of the name of Douglas , married Mary Stuart , daughter to king Robert the third , and sister to king Iames the first . 10. Iames Douglas Lord of Dalkeith married a daughter of king Iames the second . 11. Archbald brother to William the eighth Earle of Douglas married the inheritrix of Murray , who was Niece to king Robert the second , and so became Earle of Murray . 12. Archbald Earle of Angus , the second of that name , married Margaret Queen of Scotland , relict of king Iames the fourth , and eldest daughter to king Henry the seventh , sister to king Henry the eighth of England , and mother to king Iames the fifth of Scotland : by her he had Ladie Margaret Douglas . 13. Ladie Margaret Douglas , his daughter , was married to Matthew Stuart Earle of Lennox , who was also of the bloud Royall . 14. Henry Stuart Lord Darnely ( son to Lennox and Lady Margaret ) married Mary Queene of Scotland , onely daughter and heire to king Iames the fisth : She bare to him Iames the sixth of Scotland , and now happily the first king of Great Brittaine , France , and Ireland . And so much for Nobility in bloud and alliance . 5. The fift and last kinde of Nobilitie is that of same and renowne . Those that take upon them to derive and deduce the Pedegree and Etymologie of words , doe thinke that this signification is most proper , as being chiefly implyed in the word Nobilis , quasi Notabilis ; so that those are said to be most Noble , who are least obscure , who are most eminent and conspicuous in the eyes of the world , and most praised and blazed by Fame in their own and forraign Countries . This kinde of Nobilitie hath ever accompanied their vertue , as a shadow followes the bodie , and that both at home and abroad . And so we have done with their Nobility , which is the second point we propounded to be treated of . The third maine head to be considered , is their Greatnesse , concerning which in generall our Chronicles doe witnesse , that those of the name of Douglas , together with their Friends , Vassals , and Dependers , were able to make an Armie of thirty thousand , or fourty thousand men . This also doth argue their greatnesse , that it was thought an honour and credit to have dependance on them . Histories doe testifie that the Hamiltouns and Flemmings thought it no disparagement to follow them . Humes were their Pensioners and Vassals , even the chiefe houses of them . This is verified by a bond of a thousand nobles ( a great summe in those dayes ) made by Archbald Earle of Wigtoun , and Long Willie ( who was after his fathers death Earle of Douglas ) to Alexander Hume of Hume , dated at Bothwell 1423. The same Earle also ( for his father was Duke of Turaine ) gave the lands of Wedderburne to David Hume brother to the said Alexander ( propter multiplicia sua servitia ) for his many good services . This Charter of Wedderburne is anterior to the gift of Alexanders pension some eight or nine yeares , being dated in the yeare 1414. The Lawders of Basse , and Loganes of Rastarigge , were their Messengers into France , and other parts . Gray , Salton , Seaton , Oliphant , were their followers also . Neither could any man of ordinary pitch of power , have brought such aid to a forraign Prince , as this same Earle of Wigtoun transported over into France , ( five thousand , or as some say ten thousand ) which he levied and carried over at his owne proper cost , all brave and choice gentlemen . If for this he were rewarded with the Dutchie of Turaine , it was but the just recompence of his service , and no more then he deserved , and would but countervaile his charges . Wherefore I wonder with what indifferent judgement Du Serres ( Author of the French Inventarie ) doth grudge at it , and can call it mercenarie . Certainly the kings of France have thought it their due , or else they would not have continued it so long for five or six generations , that is , untill the Earles of Douglas were forfeited . Few subjects of forraigne Princes have beene so much respected , and so rewarded . It is also an evidence of their power and greatnesse , that Henry the sixth of England did contract and covenant with George the second ( Earle of Angus ) for his aid and assistance against Edward the fourth , and made an Indenture , wherein he promises to give him lands erected into a Dutchie , lying betwixt Humber and Trent . Edward the fourth made James the last Earle of Douglas Knight of the Garter , even when he was banished , so much did he honour and respect his name and vertue . So Henry the second of France made Archbald the second ( Earle of Angus ) one of the Order of Saint Michael , or the Cockle . Their magnificence and stately entertainment , and courage at home and abroad , doth likewise show their greatnesse . William the fourth of that name , and sixth Earle , being but a very young man , not above fourteen or fifteen yeares of age , bad for his ordinary train a thousand horse ; he dubbed Knights , had his Counsellours and Officers of State , like a Prince : and William the fifth was admired for his train and magnificence , as he passed through Flanders , France , and Italy , in his journey to Rome . Our Writers indeed blame him for it , and call it pride , ambition and ostentation in him : but however that be , It was an evident proofe of Greatnesse . The last and main point that we are to treat of is , their valour . Let their deeds and actions speak for this property . But to take a generall view of it : The common Epethite in the mouths of the common people hath appropriate unto them this vertue : who never speak of them , but with the addition of doughty , the doughty Douglas . And from hence indeed chiefly their greatnesse and honours did spring ; and we shall find none of them but were both skilfull commanders , and stout souldiers , being no lesse endowed with personall valour , then discretion and judgement to direct , and conduct . That brave matchlesse Romane ( Scipio Africanus ) when he was taxed for not hazarding his person , and fighting with his own hand , thought it enough to answer ( Imperatorem mater me peperit , non bellatorem ) My mother bare me a Commander , not a fighter : but our Douglases were both maximi Imperatores , nec minus strenui bellatores , wise Commandars , and hardy fighters and warriers ; they had both good heads , and good hearts and hands . In the beginning ere Rome came to its greatnesse , it is said of the first Captains ( Decorum erat tum ipsis ducibus capescere pugnam ) That it was no disparagement , but honourable for the Leaders themselves to fight with their own hand ; None were more ready and forward to fight then the Douglasses , onely Wallace is thought to have gone beyond any of them . But he is but one , and that singular and extraordinary , without any second , at least of his own name ; and our comparison stands between name and name , where the number is as well to be remembred as the worth . So many so valorous of one surname , is that which we have undertaken to prove . Besides , none of the Douglasses did ever encounter with Wallace to try who was the better man , and if we parrallell their actions done apart , what act of Wallace can be produced more admirable , then that of Archbald Tineman at the battell of Shrewsburie , where with his own hand he slew Blunt the King of Englands Standard-bearer , and three more , who were apparelled like Kings , and at last unhorst the King himself , whom he had also slain , if he had not been rescued by his sonne Henry the fifth . In an English manuscript I have seen it thus expressed , And there with fiery courage he assails Three all as Kings adornd in royall wayes , And each successive after other quails , Still wondering whence so many Kings did rise : Till doubting , lest his hands or eye sight fails , With these confounded , on the fourth he flies , And him unhorses too , whom had he sped , He then all Kings in him had vanquished . For Henry had divided as it were The person of himself into foure parts , To be lesse known , and yet known every where &c. It is written also of William Lord of Niddisdail , that he was exceeding both stout and strong , beyond any that lived in his dayes , so that whomsoever he strook but once with mace , sword , or speare , he needed never to double his stroke , eveblow carried death with it . Also James ( slaine at Otterburne ) his personall valour and strength is very highly extolled by the writers of these times , who besides that he had the better of Percie in their duell at Newcastle , he himselfe was the chiefe cause of the victorie that got the honour of the day at Otterburn ( where he lost himselfe , but wan the field ) by his own personall valour . They tell how he fought with a huge iron mace , that was heavier then any ordinary man of those dayes could weild , and more then two or three of such as now live . Qualia nunc hominum producit corpora tellus . We might adde unto these Archbald Bell the Cat ( Earle of Angus ) who in a duell with Spence cut off his thigh ( through bone and all ) at a blow , and divers others , as Archbald of Kilspindie , whom King James the fifth called alwayes his gray steel , for his valour and ability of body ; but these shall suffice here for a taste of their valour . But we will not content our selves with a generall and absolute commendation , we will also descend to the comparative , which we desire may be as farre from envie , as we hope it shall be found neere to truth . To begin then first at home , there is no subjects race in this Countrey that can match them in these of which we have spoken , Antiquity , Nobility , Greatnesse , and Valour or worth : in these ( I say ) joyntly : that is , there is none so Ancient , and withall so Noble , Great , and Valorous . No name is or ever was in this Countrey of which there can be reckoned so many and so worthy , for so stands our comparison . The Grahames are very Ancient , ( in the dayes of Ferguse the second , anno 424. ) and very Noble , but have never attained to that degree of Greatnesse as the Douglasses have done . The Hayes also are a very old and honourable name ( in the reigne of Kenneth the third , anno 976. ) but not so ancient as our Douglasses by two hundred yeares , for they began in the reigne of Solvathius anno 767. These two ( Hayes and Douglasses ) doe agree in this , that they are ( as the Grahames also are ) naturall Scots borne ; but there is great odds betweene them other wayes : For the Hayes have not reached to that pitch of greatnesse either in degree or estimation , and account of men by many stages , as the Douglasses have attained . Other names which now are great , are nothing so ancient , and besides are come from other Countreyes , such as Hammiltouns , Gordons , Campbels : The Campbels from France , and the other two out of England . The Hammiltouns came in King Robert Bruces time , the Gordons in Mackolme Kenmores . The Murrayes are more ancient , and before all these , yet they are strangers , and not of the first bloud of the Scots , and there was but one of them great and remarkable , who was Governour of Scotland ; few or none Nobilitated till of late : but none of all those names comes neere that number of Nobles and Worthies ( by lineall or laterall descent ) and as it were of hereditarie vertuous succession and race of men , which we finde of the Douglasses . There have beene some great and worthy of other names , but if they enter into comparison , they will be found ( rari nantes in gurgite vasto ) but few , one or two eminent of a name , or of the chiefe house : it will also appeare that their honours ( most of them ) have flowed more from their Princes favour , then their owne great deserving , or great service against the enemie . The Cummins were the most numbrous and powerfull of any that ever were in Scotland before or since ( as some of our Writers say ) yet their greatnesse hath rather beene in lands and possessions , or friends , then in deeds of armes , and prowesse of Chivalrie , having done little or nothing of note , and worthy of renowne . John Cummin indeed fought three battels at Roseline in one day against the English , in which we finde nothing reported of his personall valour : whereas the Douglasses did ever shew themselves in person to be singularly valorous . Besides , he was but one man , the rest are buried in silence , and there is nothing to be found of them all ( though all their actions were put together ) that deserves to be compared with the deeds of any one man amongst many of the Douglasses . Moreover , as there was no great action in them , they were scarce good Patriots , using their power to the disadvantage of their Countrey , and the opposing of the Liberties thereof , in King Robert Bruces dayes , rather then for the good and standing of the Kingdome , which the Douglasses did ever . We finde also that they were not very carefull to keepe their promises , and thought the breach of their words and faith ( so it were for their advantage ) a point of good wisedome and policy , a foule and base quality , and , which is ever incident to meane and base spirits , being directly opposite to true generositie and magnanimity , which is the fountaine and well-spring of upright dealing and truth in word and action , which were ever found in our noble Douglasses . For other Countreys , to begin with our nearest neighbours of England , the most renowned name for deeds of armes amongst them , is that of the Percies of Northumberland , between whom and the Douglasses there hath ever beene a noble and generous emulation with various successe , but for the most part to the Douglasses advantage ; so that we may say ( Contendisse Decorum ) of the Percies . But they come farre short of that number of worthies , that we have in ours . Besides the Percies have not been so loyall Subjects , having often taken armes against their lawfull Princes , and being guilty of divers rebellions , plots , conspiracies , according to which Sir Josseline Percie said merrily of the powder treason , that it had not been a right treason , unlesse a Percie had had a hand in it . But to go higher , even to the Mistresse and Empresse of the world , Rome it self : the Fabii and Cornelii were the most numerous families , and out of these two houses proceeded more Commanders , and brave Captains , then out of any that I have read , or can remember of amongst them . Now the first mention that we have of them is where they are both named , in the yeare 267. from the building of Rome , twenty years after the banishing of their King Tarquinius ; at which time Quintus Fabius , and Servius Cornelius , were Consuls together : from that time till Quintus Fabius Consul in theyeare 740. for the space of 437. years , we finde of the Fabii about some 24. persons that were Consuls , Tribunes , Decemviri , Dictatours , Generalls , and Leaders of Armies ; but for their valour or prowesse , personall courage , or proper worth , the three first are onely famous , Q. Fabius , M. Fabius and Caeso Fabius . These three being brothers , and Marcus Fabius being Consul , fought against the Hetrusci ( in the year 269. ) and Q. Fabius being slaine , Marcus and Caeso having incouraged the armie ( that was discouraged by the death of their brother Quintus ) leaping over the dead corps of their brother , assaulted the enemy in their owne persons , and by their valour and example staied their men from flying , restored the battle , and at last obtained the victorie : we reade also of one Ambustus Fabius , whose 3. sons were sent in an ambassage to the Gauls to request thē not to trouble the Clusinii ( in the yeare , 364. 63. ) These three when they could not prevail , nor perswade them to desist from invading the Clusinii did joyn with the Clusinii against the Gauls , in which conflict Quintus Fabius ( one of Ambustus three sons ) slew with his own hands in sight of both armies the Captain of the Gauls , and carried away his spoil : But he quickly stained that honour , he and his two brothers , by their misgovernment at the battell of Allia against the same Gauls , where they fled shamefully without striking a stroke , and by their misguiding gave occasion to the sacking of Rome . The last is Fabius the Dictatour , who fought against Hanniball , famous for his conduct , but not so for any personall valour . So the Cornelii from the same 267. untill 734. when P. Scipio was Consul , 736. when Lentulus was reckoning both these Cornelians , with the house of Africane the younger ( a Cornelian by adoption , but an Emiliane borne ) they are about three and thirty persons in these 167. years , who were in great place Consuls , Dictatours and the like , as the Fabii : some of them were also famous for their conduct in warre , having been brave Leaders , and Generalls of armies ( as the two Africanes , their brother Lucius , their father and their uncle Publius , and Cneus ) but for personall valour there are not many eminent , Onely Aulus Cornelius Cossus , who slew Tolumnius King of the Veiens , and Africane the first ( if it were he ) who rescued his father at the battell of are remarked for their personall vallour . Now neither of these two families doth equall the Douglasses ; who in fewer years , viz. from the 1309. untill 1588. about 300. yeares , brought forth 27. persons , all singular for their valour , and some of them far beyond any of these , as may be seen . This advantage these Romanes had , that living in the continent of Italy , and in a Common wealth which did so flourish , and was so great , their actions and deeds were more conspicuous , being acted in a more large and ample theatre , then those of our men , who were pent up in a narrow and obscure corner of an Island ; and had neither the Carthaginians nor Hanniball to fight against , whose overthrow would have given a greater splendour to their actions . And moreover they have had good Heraulds to sound their prayses aloud , and trumpet them abroad in the world , when as ours Omnes occiderunt illacrimabiles , caruere quia vate sacro . And yet even by this which we have been able to collect of them , our proposition will appear to be sufficiently proved ; with which as we began , so will we conclude : So many so good , &c. in the world , were never seen of one name and family . Touching which assertion , I will earnestly intreat this favour of the courteous Reader , that he would be pleased to consider what hath been said in an even ballance and indifferent judgement , setting aside all prejudice and pre-conceived opinion of any worth in any Nation ; and if he do not approve of our conclusion , and assent to it , let him calmely and modestly impart his reasons , and he shall finde me one that shall be most willing and ready to retract what hath been said , and to give place to the truth , if I be not able to satisfie him in reason . For my own part , I protest I speake as I think , and no more then I think ; according to my reading and knowledge of men , and according to the measure of my judgement and understanding , without prejudice of any , who upon more knowledge and out of better judgement , shall find things to be otherwise then I have thought . In the mean time we will set down here , what we have said of them else where , speaking to King James at his return into Scotland out of England , in the yeare , 1617. Atque haec inter tot diademata celsa , corollam Annumer are tuis titulis fas ducis , & unum Privatam ( verum magnis à regibus ortam , Regibus affinem magnis regumque gerentem , Sepe vicem , bellique domique & quod satis unum est , Gignentem Celsum generoso semine regem , Regem , quo tellus majorem non videt , unus Qui terna imperii tractas sceptra alma Britanni ) Duglasiam , Angusiamque domum virtute secundam Haud ulli quas prisca aut Roma , aut Graecia jactat Seu numero heroum , seu robore mentis & armis , Sive side in patriam ; sceptrorum ut millia sceptris Accumulesque tuis , numeresque in stemmate reges Latus quotcunque orbis habet : non ultima laus haec Duglasius etiam duxisse haeroibus ortum . And thou hast thought it not unfit to set Amongst thy many Crowns this Coronet ; A private family , and yet they be Deriv'd from Kings , and often did supply The place of absent Kings in warre and peace , And what may be esteem'd a greater grace , That from their loyns thy Royall self did spring Thy self , then whom earth sees no greater King. You Brittains threefold Scepter justly weeld , Douglas nor Angus will to no house yeeld , Not the most fam'd of Greece , or ancient Rome , For numbers of brave men , nor are o'recome In strength of mind , or armes , or faithfull love To their dear Countrey : should your state improve , And you injoy a thousand Scepters more , And draw your stock from all the numerous store Of Kings the whole world holds , it would not be Thy least praise , that a Douglas lives in thee . THE HISTORY OF THE HOVSE and RACE of DOUGLAS and ANGUS . Of SHOLTO DOUGLAS the first that bare the name of DOUGLAS , and of whom all that beare that name are descended . TOuching the original of this illustrious Family and Name of Douglas , we must not looke for an exact and infallible demonstration ; things of this nature are not capable of it . Great Antiquity is commonly accompanied with much incertainty , and the originalls even of Cities , Countries and Nations , are grounded ( for the most part ) upon no surer foundation , then conjecturall proofs , whose beginnings are more easily known , and better remembred then those of private families . In such cases we use to take that for truth which comes neerest to it amongst diverse narrations ; and must rest on that which is most probable and apparent . Quis rem tam veterem pro certo affirmet ? sayes the Historian in a matter not unlike . And we will say with the same Authour , Cura non deesset , si qua ad verum via inquirentem ferret : nunc famae standum est , ubi certam derogat vetustas fidem . The beginning of our Nation , yea of both Nations ( Scots and English ) such as they now are , or of those that were before ( Picts and Brittans ) is not yet sufficiently cleared : neither is it as yet fully known from what people they are sprung , or how they got their name of Scots , English , Picts & Britans ; although the learned have bestowed their pains , andimploied their pens on this subject , to the wearying , but not satisfying of the Reader . As for Scotland , M r Cambden grants so much , and mocks those that have laboured in it : yet hath he himself bestowed his time and pains to as small purpose in behalf of his countrey-men the Brittans : Neither hath he done any thing , save that by his fruitles attempt ( notwithstanding all his bragging ) he hath made it appear , that to go about it is but to labour in vain ; he himself ( after all his travell ) remaining no lesse Sceptick , ( and to use his own words ) Scotizing , then others . And even Rome it self ( the mistresse of the world ) though the noon-tide of her Empire be clear and bright , like the Sunne in her strength , yet how misty is the morning and dawning thereof . Darknesse triumphs over the reigns and triumphs of her first kings ; which are covered over with such uncertain obscuritie , or rather drowned in so profound and deep night of darknesse , that all her children ( though they have beaten their brains , and spent much lamp-oyl in searching of it ) could never clear their mothers nativity , or vindicate their father Romulus birth from the fable of the incestuous vestall , nor his nursing from being beholding to a she Wolf. Detur haec venia Antiquitati , ut miscendo humana divinis primordia urbium augustiora faciat . If he had said , that Writers must have leave to be obscure or uncertain in setting down the originall of Cities , it could not well have been denied him ; but for men to invent , and to thrust their intentions upon others to be beleeved , because they know not what else to say Detur haec venia nobis , to beleeve no more then is probable . Neither will that serve his turn , Jam hoc gentes humanae patiantur aequo animo , ut imperium patiuntur . They may command our bodies , who cannot command our soules , or our belief ; and now we have shaken off the yoake of the one , and so we do reject the other . There is no lesse uncertainty in Plutarches Theseus and Numa . Wherefore we must be contented in the originall of a private family with what others are forced to content themselves in the beginnings of Cities , Nations , Kingdomes , and Empires ; which are like to some rivers , whose streams and outlets are known , but their springs cannot be found out , as they report of Nilus . Yet this our Narration doth better deserve credit , then those of Romulus , Numa , Theseus , &c. seeing it contains nothing that is impossible , nothing that is fabulous or incredible : for here are neither gods for their fathers , nor ravening beasts their nurses . And albeit that the Chronicle of our Countrie now extant makes no mention of their beginning , yet what we find there doth rather confirm then confute our deduction thereof . And indeed it is no wonder that they are silent in this point ; If we consider how Edward the first of England ( surnamed Longshanks ) whom his countrey men terme ( Scotorum malleus ) the hammer of the Scots , because that he deceiving the trust , and abusing the power of Arbitratour which was given him to decide the right to the Crown of Scotland between Bruce & Balioll , did so handle the matter , that setting the together by the ears , after they had well beaten and battered each other , he himself fell upon them both , and so hammered and bruised them , that he did thereby over-run all the low and plain champion Countrey . If we then consider , I say , how he had to make the Scots malleable and pliable to his unlimited ambition , after he had thus cut off the flowre of the Scottish Nobility , destroyed also all the lawes of the realm , both civil and ecclesiasticall , burnt the publike Registers , together with private Monuments , Evidents , Charters , and Rights of lands ; we shall have greater cause to wonder : that any thing escaped so powerfull a King , intending the full conquest of the Countrey ; and who had so jealous an eye over any thing that might encourage his new vassals to rebells , then that we have no more left us . Nay although he had not done this of set purpose , and with intention to root out all memorialls of Nobility out of the minds of the Scots , and to embase their spirits , by concealing from them their descent and qualities ; yet even the common chance and accidents of war were enough to excuse this defect : for the Lord Douglas lands lying in the south parts of Scotland , hard upon the borders of England , this calamity did chiefly afflict him , so that his houses were burnt , his castles razed , himself taken prisoner , and so all monuments of his originall lost or destroyed . Let us remember also , besides all this , the quality and condition of those times , in which there was great scarsity of Writers , and learned men able to preserve the memory of things by their pens , all being set on war , unlesse it were some few cloystred Monks and Friers , who were both carelesse and illiterate droans . Notwithstanding all this , as no destruction is so generall , and so far spread , but something doth escape the fury of it ; and though all monuments had been defaced , yet some men being preserved , what was written in their minds and memories remaining unblotted out , they remembred what they had heard from their predecessours , and delivered it to posterity from age to age . By which means we have ( as it were ) some boords or planks preserved out of this shipwrack , which may perhaps keep us from being lost in this deepth of Antiquity , if it do not bring us safe to land . According then to the constant and generall tradition of men , thus was their originall . During the reigne of Solvathius King of Scotland , one Donald Bane ( that is , Donald the white , or fair ) having possest himself of all the western Ilands ( called Ebudes , or Hebrides ) and intitling himself King thereof , aspired to set the crown of Scotland also upon his head . For effectuating whereof , he gathered a great army ; wherein he confided so much , that he set foot on the nearest continent of Scotland , to wit , the province of Kintyre and Lorne . The Kings Lievetenants Duchal and Culen , governours of Athole and Argyle make head against him with such forces as they could assemble on the sudden . Donald trusting to the number of his men did bid them battell , and so prevailed at first , that he made the Kings army to give ground , and had now almost gained the day , and withall the Kingdome , that lay at stake both in his own conceit , and the estimation of his enemies . In the mean time a certain Noble man , disdaining to see so bad a cause have so good successe , out of his love to his Prince , and desire of honour , accompanied with his sons and followers , made an onset upon these prevailing rebels with such courage and resolution , that he brought them to a stand ; and then heartning the discouraged fliers both by word and example , he turnes the chace , and in stead of victory they got a defeat ; for Donalds men being overthrown and fled , he himself was slain . This fact was so much the more noted , as the danger had been great , and the victory unexpected . Therefore the King being desirous to know of his Lievetenants the particulars of the fight , and inquiring for the Author of so valiant an act , the Nobleman being there in person , answer was made unto the King in the Irish tongue ( which was then onely in use ) Sholto Du glasse , that is to say , Behold yonder black , gray man , pointing at him with the finger , and designing him by his colour and complexion , without more ceremony or addition of titles of honour . The King considering his service and merits in preserving his Crowne , and delighted with that homely designation , rewarded him royally with many great Lands , and imposed upon himselfe the name of Douglas , which hath continued with his posterity untill this day . And from him the Shire and County vvhich he got , is called stil Douglasdale , the River that vvatereth it , Douglas River , the Castle which he built therein , Douglasse castle . This narration , besides that it is generally received , and continued as a truth delivered from han d to hand , is also confirmed by a certain manuscript of great antiquity , extant in our dayes in the hands of one Alexander Mackduffe of Tillysaul , who dwelt at Moore alehouse near Straboguie . There ( at his dwelling house ) William Earle of Angus ( who died at Paris 1616 ) being confined to the North ( in the year 1595 ) did see and peruse it . Neither doth this relation crosse or disagree with any thing set down in our Histories : for although they do not mention this man , nor his fact , yet they all speak of this usurper , and of his attempt and overthrow in the dayes of Solvathius ( about the year 767. ) Hollinshed and Boetius affirm , that this Donald was Captain or Governour of the Isle of Tyre . Some do call him Bane mack Donalde , but Buchanan calleth him expressely Donaldus Banus , an easie errour in so great affinity of name . There is another of the same name called likewise Donald Bane , who did also usurp the title of the Kingdome , and was in like manner defeated in the reigne of King Edgar ( in the year 1000 ) but that being 333. years after this , and not much lesse after the Emperour Charles Le maigne , in whose time they had now propagated and spread themselves in Italy ( as shall be shewed anone ) It cannot agree either with this History of our Sholto , or with that Donald whom he defeated ; this last seeming to be rightlier named Mack Donald , as descended , and come of the former , who was Donalde : wherefore there is nothing here either fabulous , or monstrous ; nothing incredible or contrary to it self or to reason ; but all things very harmoniously answering one unto another ; our tradition with the manuscript , and both of these agreeing with our owne and forreign Histories . And thus concerning Sholto Douglas the root , and originall of the name and family . Of Hugh Douglas , sonne to Sholto : And first of the name of Hugh . TO Sholto succeeded his son Hugh , of whom we have nothing to write , but that he assisted his father at the overthrow of Donald Bane the usurper , there being nothing else recorded of him . Of his son Hugh the second . UNto the former Hugh did succeed his eldest son named also Hugh : for he had two sons , Hugh and William . Hugh the elder lived at home in his native countrey as a Noble man , borne to a great inheritance , whose actions by the iniquitie of time are buried in silence , and therefore we will insist no longer thereon . His younger brother William ( as is the custome of younger brothers ) went abroad into forraine Countreys to seek adventures of armes , if so he might make himselfe a fortune that way . Of him therefore we will speake next . Of William Douglas father of the honourable familie of the SCOTI in Italy . THis William was son to the first Hugh , and grandchilde to Sholto , younger brother to the second Hugh : he it is that was father to the noble familie of the Scoti in Placenza in Italy , which fell out thus , as it is related by the Italian Historians , agreeing with ours . Achaius king of Scotland having succeeded to Solvathius , did enter into league with Charlemaigne , which league hath continued betwixt the Scots and French without breach on either side ever since untill these our dayes ; whereupon when the Emperour Charles went into Italy to represse the insolencies of Desiderius King of the Lombards committed against the Sea of Rome , Achaius as his confederate did send him foure thousand choice men under the conduct of his brother William , a pious and valarous young Prince . Amongst other of his Captains that went with him , this William Douglas was one of the chief , and had the leading of the men of armes . The Emperour having restored Pope Leo the third to the dignity of his Seat , as he returned through Tuscanie , amongst other his notable acts , he restored also the Commonwealth of Florence to their former libertie ; in which exploit the valour and actions of the Scottish Prince William were much remarked : the Florentines to shew their thankfulnesse to the Emperour took to their Armes the Red Lillie , a part of the French Armes , the colour only being changed : And in memorie of the valour of Prince William they did instit●…te publike playes yearely , in which they crowned a Lion with great ceremonie and pomp , ordaining also that certain Lions should be kept upon the charges of the common Thesaurarie , because William had a Lion for his Armes , which is also the Armes of the Kings of Scotland . They have also a prophesie in Florence , which saith , While crowned Lions live in Florence field , To forraine Armes their State shall never yeeld . This Prince William , brother to Achaius King of Scotland , passed into Germanie , and gave himselfe wholly to the warres , where for his service by his sword , having obtained large Territories , he led a single life all his dayes , and thinking to make Christ his heire , he founded and doted fifteen Abbacies for those of the Scottish Nation . It is he ( saith Major ) who is named in songs made of him , Scottish Gilmore . Now while as the Emperour and Prince William were in their returne from Italy towards France , William Douglas in his voyage through Plaisance did fall into a heavie disease , and not being able to go along with the Emperour , stayed at Plaisance till he recovered his health . And then considering the toile and danger of so long a journey , as it would be into his own Countrey , he resolved rather to remain there , then to hazzard his person any more , which such travell would have greatly endangered : wherefore to gain the good will of the Citizens of Plaisance , and to strengthen himselfe ( being a stranger ) by a good alliance , he took to wife a daughter of Antonio Spettino , one of the most eminent and honourable houses in that Citie : by her he had many children , of whom are descended those of the most noble Familie of the Scoti , who are so called by reason of this William , their Ancestour , who was a Scottishman , the name of his Country being better knowne , and more remarkable , then either his own proper name , or the name of his Familie . This originall of the Scoti in Plaisance is collected and confirmed , 1. by the testimonie of the Italian Writers ; 2. by the tree and genealogie of that familie ; 3. and by their Coat of Arms which they give , being the same with the ancient Coat of the Douglasses , with some difference . 1 Touching our Authors , they are such as have written the Historie of Plaisance , which is followed forth by Umbertus Locatus , and Franciscus Sansovinus . This last ( Sansovinus ) in the first book of his Historie , De primo origine delle case illustri d' Italia , writeth thus : Quando Carolo Magno fece l' Impresa in Italia contra Desiderio Re de Longobardi ( l' anno 779 ) hebbe per suo Conduttiere di huomini di armi un Gulielmo Scozzese della Familia di Conti di Duglasi , &c. as we have set down before . Onely he calls it the 779 year , which our Writers call 800 , or 801. There he showes how this House was illustrious from the very first beginning thereof : And for their rank they held in that Citie , he declares that it was one of the foure Families which did distribute the Offices of the City , which were these ; Scotta , Landra , Anguiscola , Fontona . And they grew at last so numerous , and so famous both for Letters and Armes , that having purchased many Rents , and great Lands and Territories , together with many Friends and Alliance , they acquired the Soveraignty of that Citie , and became absolute Lords and Princes thereof . So that from them when they were Princes of Plaisance did spring the Counts or Earles of 1 Vegelino , 2 Agazano , 3 and Sarmetti . They have beene allied with the chiefe Families in those Provinces , the 1 Rangoni , 2 Fieshi , 3 Ressi , 4 Pallavicini , 5 Lodroni , 6 Strozzi , 7 Conti d' Arco : and the like . Then he reckons divers particular persons , and namely ( which doth serve to confirme this deduction ) Donatus Scotio Bishop of Bobio , ( who lived in the yeare 846 , or 48. who built a Monasterie without the walls of Plaisance , which he dedicated to the memory and honour of Saint Bride ( Patronesse of Douglas ) in remembrance that hee was a Douglas , as is probable . He built also a Church within the walls , which he gave to the Friers of the Monasterie of Bobio , who were of Saint Colme ( or Columbanus ) Order , who was Abbot of Icolmekill an Island amongst the Scottish Hebrides . And this he did ( saith Sansovino ) Non solamente per l' amor de Dio , ma anchora perche San Columbano fu di Hibernia Isola de Scotia : Not onely for the love of God , but because Saint Colme ( or Columbanus ) was of Ireland , an Island of Scotland , so he thought being a forreigner , being the Scots and Irish are mutually descended each of other . Then comming to speak of their worth and valour , he reckons up above six and twenty persons who were ever valorous in whatsoever fortune , good or bad , and had been in great employments continually for the space of two hundred eighty five yeares together , under the Emperour Henry the fourth , Charles the fourth , and Sigismond : Also under John King of Bohemia , and Duke John Maria , in divers plaees , at Pavie , Candie , in Cyprus , in Albania , Famagusta , at the Isle of Thin against the Turks : in all which services they behaved themselves valorously , and discharged their places with credit and honour . There were some also famous for learning , as Christophero Doctor of the Lawes , and Bishop of Cavaillon ( in Provence of France ) and Fiderico an excellent Jurisconsult , and who hath written learnedly . At last he relates how they were overthrown by the Duke of Millain , who besieged Alberto Vechio , the elder , and forced him to render upon composition , by which he gave divers Castles ; Lands ; and Territories , and divers Jurisdictions ; with a competent estate and means . And here he reckons up above ten or twelve Castles which they still possesse , all famous and honourable , with the greatest priviledges that can be . 2. As for the Tree and Genealogie of these Scoti , in it we have first this our 1 William Douglas , 2 then David , 3 Lanfrancus , who had foure sonnes , 1 Johannes , 2 Raynaldus , 3 Ruffinus , 4 Rollandus . Johannes had Albertus , who begat foure sons ; 1 Petrus , of whom we finde no succession ; 2 Nicholaus , of whom are descended the houses of Fombii , Guardamilii , and Cassaligii ; 3 Franciscus , or Francus , of whom are the Countes of Volgolino ; Angazano , and Sarmetto , and those of Gragnani ; 4 Jacobus , father of the Familie of the Castri sti Johannis . Lanfrancus second son Raynaldus was Progenitor to the Gravahi and Varsii . 3 Ruffinus his third son was Author of the Momaghi , Magnani , & domorum del Boscho . 4 OF Rollandus his fourth son are descended the Passano , and Aygveriae . These , with their off-spring , have multiplied and spread themselves into divers parts of Italie . Also they are found in the Marquisate of Salluce , in France , in Guienne , and about Bourdeaux , where they are knowne by the names of Houglas , having corrupted the originall name , as strangers are wont to doe . There are also of these Scoti in the towne of Antwerp in Brabant , amongst which Petrus and Cornelius Scoti , inhabitants and merchants there of the best sort , who being lately challenged and interrupted by the Magistrates thereof , for presuming to set up the Douglas Armes upon the tombs of their fathers , did send over into Scotland , in the yeare 1619. a messenger of purpose ( Alexander Seaton by name ) with their severall letters signed with the names of Scoti , alias Douglassi , directed unto the Right Honourable William Earle of Angus , Lord Douglas , &c. acknowledging their descent from his House ; and intreating his Honours testimoniall thereupon . Upon which request , the said Earle having examined the matter by his Evidents , and other Records , found their claime to be just and right , was moved to send them by the same messenger an authentick Patent of their Pedegree under the broad Seale of Scotland , as likewise under the hands and several seales of William Earle of Angus , William Earl of Morton , dated the 16. day of March 1621. In which patent the said Petrus and Cornelius extraction from this William father of the Scoti , and grandchild to Sholto , is deduced particularly , as may be seen in the publike Register of Scotland . 3. As for the ancient armes of the house of Douglas , they were three mullets ( or starres ) onely in a field azure , untill good Sir James did adde the crowned Hart , because King Robert Bruce did concredit to him the carrying of his heart , and burying of it at Jerusalem . The Italian Douglasses ( or Scoti ) having come off before him , kept the field coat unaltered , as may be seen in their Tombes and other Monuments : for in Plaisance , in Saint Lawrence Church , where there are above twelve severall Monuments and Tombes of that Family ( it being their buriall place ) whereof some are of marble , surrounded with iron grates , there is an ancient Monument of a noble Lady near unto the high altar , bearing these three mullets , with this inscription , Margareta Scota Contessa de Burla : but now the Italian Douglasses , or Scoti , give but two mullets , and between two they have drawn a beam argent , which begins at the right hand , and ends at the left . The reason of this difference is given in this letter sent by the Conte de Agazano to this present Earle of Angus , which we wil set down in his own words and language , as he sent it written , and signed with his owne hand , and sealed with his seal . Ill mo Sigr mio Ess mo , QUando 10 hebbi l' honore de vedere in Orleans vuestra illustrissima signoria gli promessi fargli havere l' Arbore de la famiglia Scota de Piacenza discesa d' illustrissima casa di Douglas . Ma perche non ho fin hora havuto comodita sicura di mandarlo , non ho pagato primo questo debito . Hora dunque con l' occasione di un gentil . huomo , mio amico , qui passa in Inghilterra non ho voluto tardare piu a mandarle come faccio detto arbore o Genca loigia ; pregando vs ill ma honorarmi , come mi promisse dell ' arbore de la casa . Douglas in Scotia , almeno quella parte che la rigidezza di tempi passati di guerri in quel regno havera permesso di poter conservare la memoria , et io gli ne restero obligatissimo . L' arma antiqua di Scoti en Piaienza era conforme a L' antiche de Douglasso , come se vedo in ditta citta ne la chiesa de santo Lawrenzo . Ma al tempo che Ghelsi , & Ghibellini guerregiavano in Italia : Li Scoti , come partiali di Francesi furon elletti capi di Gelphi in Piabenzo . Et perche tutte le cose d' numero non paro si intendevano Ghibellini , furono donque necessitati di rendere il numero delle tre stelle o vero a quattro o vero a due . Ma giudacando che accrescerne non conveniva : Si resolvettero Levarne una , a la piazza della quale per memoria missero . La sbarra bianca che commiciando de le parte destra va a finire a la sinistra , che si la sbarra comminciasse a la sinistra , & finisse a la destra , saria Ghibellini . Il champo che solea essere rizo fu d' Arrigo. 4. Imperatore dato insieme col Cimere d' un Pellicano , it Cimere a quei Scoti soli che le Portano di presente , & il campo a tutta la familia generallmente . Ho giudicato bene fare questa poca digressione , accio vs Illam hebbi qualche notitia perche su seguita la mutatione . Mi sara caro ch' ella si compiaccia screvermi lae ricevuta di detta Arbore , all arma del quale manca la corona sopra , che ci deve essere in loco del cimere . Et volendo mi honorare di sue lettere , in viandore all . Illustrissimo & Essmo Sr Duca di Nevers mio capitano sicure , & io ne tenero obligo particulare a vs illma ; a la quale per fine , insieme con Li Signori suoi fratelli , & figlioli hacio le mani , conpiegarle da N. S. ogni prosperita . Di Paris le 8. Maggio . 1622. Di vs ill ma Devotissimo Servit re & parente Il Conte Marc Antonio Scoto d' Agazano My honourable Lord , William Douglas . WHen I had the honour to see you at Orleans , I promised to send you the Tree of the Family of the Scoti of Plaisance ; which is descended of the illustrious house of Douglas : But because I have not hitherto had a convenient opportunity of sending it safely , I have not yet paid this debt : Now therefore having found the occasion of this Gentleman my friend , who was to go into England I would delay no longer to send , the Tree or Genealogie : which I have done , beseeching your Lordship as you promised me to honour me with the Tree of the house of Douglas in Scotland ; at least , so much of it as the iniquitie of times past , and the wars in that kingdome have suffered to remain undefaced , and undestroyed , and I shall rest your Lordships obliged for this favour . The old armes of the Scoti in Plaisance , were conformed to the old armes of the Douglas , as may be seen in the foresaid Citie , in the Church of Saint Lawrance . But when the Ghelfs , and Ghibellins did warre one against another in Italy , the Scoti as partners of the French , were chosen to be heads of the Ghelfs in Plaisance . And because all things of an odde or unequall number were taken for Ghibelline , they were constrained to change the number of three starres , into either foure or two . But esteeming that it was not fit to increase the number , they resolved to take one from them : in the place of which ( in memory of it ) they put a white or argent bar , which beginning at the right hand is drawn along , and ends at the left : for if it had begun at the left , and ended at the right hand , it had been Ghibelline . The field which was given by the Emperour Henry the fourth , together with a Pelican for the crest , which is the Crest of the Scoti onely , who carry it at this houre , and the field of the whole Family generally . I have thought good to make this short digression , that your Lordship might have some knowledge wherfore this change was made in our coat : your Lordship should do me a singular favour if you would be pleased to write unto me of the receit of this Tree , in the armes of which the Coronet is wanting , because the Crest is the place where it should be , and to honour me with your letters , which you may send to my noble Captain the Duke of Nivers , and so they shall come safe to me ; for which favour I shall be particularly obliged to your Lordship . So kissing your Lordships hands , together with thèse of your brethren and children , I pray the Lord to blesse you with all happinesse and prosperity . Paris 8. May 1622. Your Lordships humble servant and Cousen , Mark Antonio Scoto Counte d'Agazano . This Tree was received by the Earle of Angus , who did also send to him the Tree of the house of Douglas . Now besides all this which we have said , the Evidents and Monuments , Charters and Writs of priviledge of their house , do witnesse the same : for in the priviledges granted to them by the Emperour Henry the fourth , and Sigismond , as also by Giovanni Maria Duke of Millain , the surname of Douglas is expresly inserted with the titles of Earles given to three severall persons of that house , first Francisco created Conte de vigolino ; Giovanni ( his brother ) Conte d'Agazano , by the said Duke , and to Alberto expressely intituled , Conte de Douglas & Vigolino , by Sigismond the Emperour . Now after all this , I hope we may justly say with John Leslie Bishop of Rosse ; Unde certissimâ conjecturâ assequimur illam perantiquam famil●…am quibus ( Scoti cognomen ) confirmabit jam usus loquendi , Placentiae florentem ex nobilissimâ nostrorum Duglassiorum comitum prosapiâ oriundam fuisse : that the Scoti in Plaisance are come of the Douglasses in Scotland . And thus much for William the second , sonne to Hugh the first , and grandchilde to Sholto . Of William the first Lord , created Lord of Douglas at the Parliament of Forsaire . NOw to return home again to the Scotish Douglasses , we finde that King Malcolme Kenmore in a Parliament held at Forfair in Angus , in the yeare 1057. as the manuscript , Major and Buchanan have it , but according to Boctius , 1061. did create many Earles , Barons ( or Lords ) and Knights , amongst whom there is Gulielmus a Douglas , who was made a Barron : the words are these : Malcolmus Scotorum Rex 86 tus Sconae coronatus anno 1061. Inde Forfarum generale indixit Concilium , volens ut Primones quod antea non fuerat , aliarum more gentium à praedis suis cognomina caperent : quosdam vero etiam comites ( vulgo Earles ) quosdam Barones ( vulg Lords ) alios Milites , aut Equites Auratos ( vulgo martiall Knights ) creavit Makduffum Fifae Thanum , Fifae Comitem , Patritium Dumbarum , Marchiarum comitem : alios quoque viros praestantes , Montethiae , Atholiae , Marriae , Cathanesiae , Rossiae , Angusiae , dixit comites . Johannem Soules , Davidem Dardier ab Abernethie , Simonem a Tueddell , Gulielmum a Douglas , Gillespium Cameron , Davidem Briechen , Hugonem a Caldella , Barones , cum diversis aliis , Equites Auratos , perplures pauci vero Thani relicti . - In English thus , Malcolme the 86t. King of Scots , being crowned at Scone in the year 1061 , conveened a Parliament at Forfaire , where , according to the custome of other Nations , he ordained that Noblemen should have their titles to be distinguished by their possessions , and lands , which had not been the custome of this Countrey in former times . And so he created some . Countes or Earles , others Barons or Lords , and others Cavalliers or Martiall Knights : he made Mackdusse Earle of Fife , who had been Thane of Fife ; Pàtrick Dumbarre , Earle of Marche : he made also others of the Nobility Earles of Monteeth , Athole , Marre , Murray Cathnes , Rosse , Anguse . John Souls , David Dardier of Abernethie , Simon of Tweddale , William of Douglas , Gilespie Cameron , David Briechen , Hugh of Calder , were made Barons or Lords : others more he knighted likewise a great many , so that few Thanes were left . This note of these very words were extracted out of the Register and Monuments of Icolmekill , and sent to George Buchanan , when he was in writing his history of Scotland ; whereof John Read , ( Buchanans servitour , and amanuensis ) having reserved a copy , did communicate it to diverse afterward . Now here this William being ranked amongst the Nobility , who were chosen out to receive these new honours , could be no mean man : but in all likelyhood , the chief and principall of that name ; and so the eldest descended of Sholto , and his sonne Hugh the first , and his grandchilde Hugh the second , by lineall succession . This is al we have of him , save that it is a received generall report and tradition , that his two sons , John and William , were Knights at the same Parliament , which is an argument that he hath been a man of good esteem , and eminent place . Of John , the second Lord of Douglas . WIlliam did leave behind him two sonnes , John and William , both Knights : The eldest was Sir John of Douglasburn , which is a parcell of ground and mannour lying betwixt Ettrick forrest , and Peebles . The other was William of Glendinning , which is about the upmost parts of West-Teviotdale neere to Ewesdale . Now whether this John did succeed to his father in the Lordship , as being his eldest son and heire , who was designed ( during his fathers life time onely ) by the title of Douglasburn , or whether he had an elder brother , and so both he and Sir William were but cadets of the house of Douglas , we cannot affirm : But thus much they say , that these two brothers were men of great power and authority , and very worthy and valiant gentlemen . They affirm also that Sir William of Glendinning had two sonnes , Alexander and William , of whom are descended those of Cressewall , Strabrock , Pompherston , Pittendrigh , and Calder-Cleer . Of William the second of that name , and third Lord of Douglas . WE have but little mention of this man , onely in a Charter granted to the town of Aire by King David , first sonne to King Malcolme Kenmore , he is inserted a witnesse without any other title or designation : Then Gulielmus de Douglas , William of Douglas . This Charter was given the 25. or 27. yeare of his Reigne , the yeare of God 1151. two yeares before his death , which was 1153. Of Archbald the fourth Lord of Douglas , and first of that name . THere is as little mention made of this Archbald , as of the former William : we find him onely inserted witnesse in a second Charter granted to the town of Aire , by Alexander the second sonne to King William , in the 22. of his reigne , and of our redemption , 1236. Of the third William , and fifth Lord of Douglas , maker of the Indenture with the Lord Abernethie . THis VVilliam is found in an Indenture made betwixt him , and the Lord Abernethie , which the Earles of Angus have yet extant , amongst their other evidents and rights of their lands . The date of this Indenture is on Palmesunday , in the yeare 1259. . in the reigne of Alexander the third : the place , the Castle of Edinburgh : It is a contract of marriage , in which the father called there VVilliam Lord Douglas , doth contract his sonne Hugh Douglas to Marjory Abernethie , sister to Hugh Lord Abernethie , The summe and contents thereof , are that the marriage shall be solemnized on Pasche day , that all things may be perfected before Ascension day . The conditions are these , for the Lord Abernethies part , that he shall give with his sister to Hugh Douglas , viginti carictas terrae ( perhaps it should be Carrucatas terrae ) twenty plough gate of land in the towne of Glencors . And for the Lord Douglas part , that he shall give to his son Hugh Douglas and Marjory his wife 20. Carrucatas in feudo de Douglas , twenty plough gate of land in the few of Douglas . The witnesses are Alexander Cumine , Earle of Buchan , Raynold Cumin , John of Dundie-Moore , and one Douglas , whose Christian name was worn away , and could not be read . This should seem to be that Indenture which Sir Richard Metellane of Lithington , father to Iohn Lord of Thirlestane , sometime Chancellour of Scotland , of worthy memory , doth mention in his manuscript , where he hath carefully collected some memories of the house of Douglas . He sayes that Sir John Ballandine of Achnoute Knight , did show to John Lesly Bishop of Rosse , one Indenture that makes mention of Douglassas 80. yeares before that Lord William ( the Hardie ) who was contemporary with William Wallace , and this Indenture is very neare so long before his time . But he saith that the Lord Abernethie , who doth there indenture with the Lord Douglas , was father to Marjory , and our Indenture makes him brother to her . It may be there have been two Indentures ; one before this made by her father , which not being accomplished during his life , hath been renewed by his sonne or brother , or that they have mistaken it , for there is no other save this onely ( which doth clearly call him her brother ) amongst their writs and evidents . Upon this there was drawn up a Charter without date of either time or place ; onely it appears by the tenour thereof , that it was made after the Indenture . The giver is the same Lord William to Hugh his son and heire : the lands disposed to him are , Glaspen , Hartwood , Kennox and Carmackhope , and Leholme ; together with the lands sayes he , ( quae sunt in calumnia inter me & haeredes Johannis Crawford ) that are in suit of law betwixt me and the heirs of John Crawforde , without any detriment . Then the cause of his giving is set down , that they may be a dowry to Marjorie Abernethie his sonnes wife , and sister to Hugh Lord Abernethie . Ever after this he intitles his sonne , Dominus Hugo de Douglas , Sir Hugh of Douglas . It hath an expresse caveat , that if after the marriage be solemnized , the said Sir Hugh of Douglasdale shall happen to die , or if he shall ( aliquo malo suo genio ) through some devillish or wicked disposition abstain from copulation with her , she shall brook and injoy these lands , although the said Lord VVilliam should be alive : And if the said Marjory shall outlive the said Lord VVilliam , thought her husband Hugh should die before him , yet he shall have the third part of his lands in Douglasdale , excepting the third of so much as the said Lord VVilliam shall leave to his wife . There is in it another very strange point , and as it were a provision in case of divorcement , or not consummating the marriage : viz. that if the said Sir Hugh , or Lord Hugh ( Dominus Hugo ) be then ( after his fathers death ) living lord and heir , or have an heire by any other wife , the said Marjory shall possesse the lands notwithstanding , all the dayes of the said Hughs life . Now he could not have an heire by another wife , unlesse he were first divorced from her . There is also one clause more touching her security , That if the Lord Abernethie , or his counsell shall desire any other security reasonable by Charter or hand-write , that they shall cause make the conveyance as they think good , and Lord VVilliam shall signe it , and set his seal to it . The seal at this is longer then broad , fashioned like a heart , the letters thereon are worn away , and not discernable save onely ( W ll ) and the armes seeme to be three Starres or Mullets at the upper end thereof : but I cannot be bold to say absolutely they were so . This I have set down the more particularly and punctually , that by these circumstances the truth may be more clear and free from all suspition of forgery and invention . I have done it also , that though every one be not curious or taken with these things , such as are ( of which number I prefesse my self to be one ) may find something to please their harmelesse desire of the not unpleasant , and some way profitable knowledge of Antiquity . By this Indenture it is cleare that this William is not the same with VVilliam Hardie , who died in prison , and was father to good Sir James , because his name was VVilliam , and had a sonne Hugh , as the other also had : for if we do but suppose that Hugh contracted to Marjory Abernethie were 25. yeares of age at the making of the Indenture ( 1259. ) and that his father Lord VVilliam were twenty five yeares elder then his son Hugh , fiftie in all : then must he have been when he married the young English Lady ( by whom he had divers children ) and when he assisted VVilliam VVallace , when he surprised the Castles of Sanquhaire and Disdeir , and performed other warlike exploits , being still in action till the 1300. about 90. or 100. years of age , which carries no likelihood with it that one so old , should be so able of his body . Besides this Lord VVilliam the Authour of this Indenture had for his eldest sonne and heire this Hugh contracted to Marjory Abern●…thie , but the eldest sonne and heire to that Lord VVilliam wanted good Sir James , who died in Spain : for all our Histories do tell how that the Bishop of Saint Andrews did sute King Edward for good Sir James to restore him to his fathers lands and inheritance , but King Edward re●…sed to do it : and in a Charter given by King Robert Bruce in the fifteenth yeare of his reigne , Borvici super ●…wedam , at Berwick upon Tweed , of the Lordship of Douglas , these expresse words are contained , Jacobo Domino de Douglas , Filio & Heredi Gulielmi de Douglas . This good Sir James dying without heire male lawfully gotten of his own body , his brother Hugh succeeded to him in the yeare 1342. in which year the same Hugh doth give a Charter of the said lands and Lordship , to wit , Douglasdale , together with the lands of Carmichel , Selkrick , &c. To his Nephew William son to Archbald his brother , which VVilliam did succeed to Hugh , he having no heires male , he was afterward Earle of Douglas . Now it is against all reason to think that he that was contracted to Marjory Abernethy ( 1259. ) should be the same with this Hugh who gives this Charter ( 1342. ) seeing he must be now 106. or 107. years of age , which is not probable . This VVilliam had to wife Martha sister of Alexander Earle of Carrict , who bare to him two sonnes , Hugh his eldest , and VVilliam the Hardie : by their alliance with the house of Carrick , besides that he was not a little strengthned , they being great men and powerfull , it fell out that his posteri●…y became of kindred to King Robert Bruce : for Fergus Lord of Galloway had two sonnes ; the elder Gilbert , and Ethred the younger . At his death he ordained that the Lordship of Galloway should be divided betwixt them , which was done accordingly ; and the division was ratified and confirmed by King William , who did then reigne : but the King being afterward taken prisoner at Anwick be the English , Gilbert nothing contented with the division , having got Ethred his brother into his hands , caused put out his eyes , and possessed himself of the whole Lordship , and kept it till he died , which was before the Kings return out of England , before which Ethred also was dead . These two brothers left each of them a sonne behind him ; Gilbert left Alexander , and Ethred Rowland . This Rowland finding his faction the stronger , thrust out his cousen Alexander , and seized upon the whole estate himself alone , and at the Kings return took a new gift thereof of the King , who gave also to Alexander , Gilberts sonne , in recompense and lieu thereof , the Earledome of Carrick : This Alexander had but one sister named Martha , who was married to this Lord William Douglas , he went into Syria with Edward Prince of Wales , who was brother in law to King Alexander , the third , sent by the King and State at the Popes request , to fight against the Sarasins . There went with him the Earle of Athole , and many brave Knights and Gentlemen : in which expedition he died ; leaving onely one daughter his heire , Martha Countesse of Carrick . She was married to Robert Bruce , sonne to Robert Bruce ( who is known by the name of Robert the Noble ) and to Isabel second daughter to David Earle of Huntington . To this Robert , the Countesse of Carrick bare Robert Bruce , who was afterwards King of Scotland . So then we see how Martha Countesse of Carrick , and William the Hardie were Cousin germans ; and her sonne King Robert Bruce , and good Sir James Cousins once removed : so that not onely the thralled liberties of Scotland , and his private losses , did oblige Sir James to side with King Robert , and to stick so constantly to him , but this tie of bloud and consanguinity also , being so near a kinsman . We are also to observe here , that Martha Countesse of Carrick , was also the nearest , just and rightfull heire to the Lordship of Galloway , being descended of the elder brother Gilbert , and therefore to be preferred before Allane , who was descended of the younger brother Ethred by Rowland his father : and after her and her heires , her fathers sister married to this Lord William was next heire to both the Earledome of Carrict , and Lordship of Galloway . Whether this title did move the Douglasses to seek the Lordship of Galloway , as they did afterward , and helped them to obtain it the more easily of the King , or of others descended of Allane , and of his heires , I leave it to be considered . How ever that be , we may see by the matching with this honourable house of Carrick , Galloway and Abernethy , the chief Peers in this Realme as then , that the house of Douglas was of no small esteem and account long before good Sir James , and that they mistake things farre , and are but ill versed in Antiquity that thinke he was the first that did raise that name to Nobility or greatnesse , this Williams marriage having preceded his time 80. yeares at least . Of Sir Hugh ( the third of that name ) and sixth Lord of Douglas . WIlliam had to his eldest sonne and lawfull successour , Sir Hugh Douglas , who as we have said was married to Marjorie Abernethie , daughter to Alexander , and sister to Hugh Lord of Abernethie . This house of Abernethie were friends and followers of the Cummins , and did assist and party them in all their enterprises , as we may see by their joyning with them at Kinrosse when they took King Alexander the third . Their credit and favour with their Princes appears by this ; That Lord William Abernethie got of King William the Abacie of Aberbrothock , or ( as it may be thought rather , for the writing was dimme and hard to discern ) the Collegiate Church lands of Abernethie , paying thence yearely twenty pound . This Hugh Abernethie obtained also of King Alexander the third , a Charter of the lands of Lenrie , and a pension of fiftie pound sterling by yeare : likewise he got from the same King a confirmation of the lands of Hulkstone and Lilestone . In these gifts the Cummins still are witnesses , and with them stiled Patrick Earle of Dumbarre . We finde also a gift of twenty pound land granted by Isabell Countesse of Stratherne Relict of Walter Cummin , and her husband John Russell . In the dayes of Balioll this house was so powerfull , that thy were able to make their party good against the Earle of Fife , whom they slew , and were winked at by Balioll : with this house did Sir Hugh match , as his father had done with Carrict and Galloway , which as it was an honourable alliance for him , so doth it also argue that the house of Douglas even then was noble and honourable , and in the rank amongst the greatest , as we have said . How long this Sir Hugh Lord Douglas did live after his contract and marriage , we cannot finde : but it is clear that he had no children that survived and outlived their father , because his brother William was his heire and successour . Neither can we relate any his particular actions ; onely fame and tradition have given him a received testimony of activitie , watchfulnesse and diligence , by terming him good Sir Hugh Douglas , whom his foes found never sleeping . He with his wife are buried in Saint Brides Church in Douglas . Of William the Hardic ( or Long logge ) the fourth William and seventh Lord of Douglas . TO Hugh did succeed his brother VVilliam , who for his valour and courage is distinguished by the addition of VVilliam the hardie ; he is named also William long legge , by reason of his tall and goodly , stature , having beene a very personable man. Hee was twice married : first to the Lord Keeths sister , by whom he had two sonnes , Iames and Hugh , as is evident by a Charter of resignation made by his son Hugh to his nephew VVilliam the first Earle of Douglas : his next wife was an English Lady called Ferrar , or Ferrais , of which name we finde the Earls of Darbie to have beene in the dayes of King Henry the third : She bare also two sons , Archbald Lord of Galloway , and Iohn , of whom are descended the Lords of Dalkeith , Maines , and Loghleven . Concerning himselfe , we finde in the English Chronicle , that when King Edward the first took in the town of Berwick ( in the yeare 1295. ) he was Captain of the Castle there , and not being able to resist and hold out , the Towne being in the enemies hands , he rendred the place , with himselfe also a prisoner , where he remained untill the warres were ended ; by the yeelding of Iohn Balioll to King Edward . During the time of his captivitie he was to marry this English Lady , that so he might be drawn to favour the Kings pretensions in conquering of Scotland . But his matching did not alter his affection towards his native Countrey , nor brake his constancie in performing his dutie to it . Wherefore when he heard that VVilliam VVallace was risen up , and had taken open banner against the English , he joyned with him , by which accession of forces , Wallace Army was much increased and strengthened ; yet they were not alwayes together , but according to the occasion , and as opportunity did offer , they did divide their companies , and went to severall places , where they hoped to get best advantage of the enemie , and where there needed no great Armie , but some few companies at once . In these adventures Lord William recovered from the English the Castles of Disdiere and Sanwheire . The manner of his taking the Castle of Sanwheire is said to have beene thus : There was one Anderson that served the Castle , and furnished them with wood and fewell , who had dayly accesse to it upon that occasion . The Lord Douglas directs one of his trustiest and stoutest servants to him to deale with him , to finde some meane to betray the Castle to him , and to bring him within the gates onely . Anderson either perswaded by entreatie , or corrupted for money , gave my Lords servant ( called Thomas Dickson ) his apparell and carriages , who comming to the Castle , was let in by the Porter for Anderson . Dickson presently stabbed the Porter , and giving the signall to his Lord who lay neere by with his Companies , set open the gates , and received them into the court . They being entred , killed the Captaine , and the whole English Garrison , and so remained masters of the place . The Captains name was Bevford , a kinsman to his own Ladie Ferrais , who had oppressed the Countrey that lay near to him very insolently . One of the English that had been in the Castle escaping , went to the other garrisons that were in other Castles and Townes adjacent , and told them what had befallen his fellowes , and withall informed them how the Castle might be recovered : whereupon joyning their forces together , they came and besieged it . The Lord Douglas finding himself straightned , and unprovided of necessaries for his defence , did secretly convey his man Dickson out at a postern or some hidden passage , and sent him to William Willace for aid : Wallace was then in the Lennox , and hearing of the danger Douglas was in , made all the haste he could to come to his relief . The English having notice of Wallace approach , left the siege , and retired toward England ; yet not so quickly but that Wallace accompanied with Sir John Grahame , did overtake them , and killed 500. of their number , ere they could passe Dalswynton . By these and such like means Wallace with his assistance having beaten out the English from most part of their strengths in Scotland , did commit the care and custody of the whole Countrey , from Drumlenrigge to Aire , to the charge of the Lord Douglas . Now howbeit there be no mention of these things in our Chronicle , yet seeing the book of Wallace ( which is more particular in many things ) speakes of them , and the Charter of the house of Siminton descended lineally of the said Thomas Dickson , who for this and his other like services done to this Lord , and afterward to his sonne good sir James , got the 20. mark land of Hisleside , which his posterity doth enjoy still , holding of the Lords of Douglas and Angus , and there is no doubt to be made , but he hath done much more in his assistance he gave Wallace , then is recorded or extant any where , there being no likelihood that in those so busie times , these so valiant and brave warriers did lie idle , though the particulars lie buried in deep silence . And certainly it was not for nought that his lands were burnt by Robert Bruce himself , his wife and children taken prisoners , and brought to the King of England : his wife and children were taken by Bruce himself , by the Lord Clifford . King Edward required him to take his oath of fidelity to the Crown of England , and become his subject , which he utterly refusing to do , his lands were given to the Lord Clifford , and himself committed prisoner , and so he continued to the houre of his death . During which time he never abated any thing of his magnanimous courage and constancie , but shewed himself worthy of his noble progenitours , and no wayes short of whatever worth either they had , or fame hath bestowed on them : So did he also well deserve to be predecessour to such successours , and father to such posterity ; who ( as we shall heare hereafter ) did follow this vertuous example and pattern . How praiseworthy is it in him , that neither the danger of his own person ( being in the hands and power of his enemy ) nor the example of so many as did yeeld to the victorious Conquerour , there being few or none beside William Wallace that stood out against him , no not the desperate case and estate of his Countrey brought to so low an ebbe , could break his resolution to remain firme to his native soyl : Notwithstanding , that by all appearance all was irrecoverably lost , so that his standing out against the King could bring no help to it , and certain enmity ( for ought could be seen ) to himself and his posterity for ever . Setting aside all these regards ( which are so common , and so highly accounted of in this our last age ) not measuring dutie by profit , or commoditie , nor following the common rules of that wisedome which now reignes in the world , which is to respect and preferre our particular before all other things ; but weighing matters in another ballance , and squaring his actions by what was generous and right , rather then that which was gainfull and advantagious for himself : he hath left an example of true wisedome , vertue and honesty , and of true magnanimitie unto others : he dieth a free man in despite of his enemies , though a prisoner , and beareth witnesse of the liberty of his Countrey , that it did not serve , but was oppressed , convincing the Tyrant of that time of violence , and the Advocates and Proctors , which either he then had , or since have pleaded for him in that debate , of most impudent and manifest lying . And there are some even in our dayes scarce yet ashamed of so shamefull an assertion , as to affirm that Scotland , and some of their Kings have yeelded obedience , and homage , to a forrain Prince , acknowledging him for their Soveraigne . But the truth hereof is , that it hath been oppressed , but never served ; it hath been overcome , and overrunne , but it never yeelded : And in the owne time through constancy and courage , did at last overcome the overcomer , and shake off the yoake of forrainers in spight of all their force and fraud ; whereof as the Lord Douglas in this catastrophe of his life is a pregnant witnesse , so hath he left behind him an honourable memory of an invincible mind , and a lesson for tyrants to te●…li , and let them see how weake a thing tyranny is , and how small power and force it hath when it meets with true courage , though it were but of one man , who overcomes their force and falshood , with truth and constancy : And certainly this Lords vertue and merits are such , as , how ever those that come after him did fall into more happy times , and had better occasions to show themselves , and to make their actions more conspicuous towards their Countrey : yet , there is no reason why he should be thought inferiour to any one of them , because his fortune was harder then theirs : Nay , he ought rather to be preferred so much the more , as he was more assailed , and compassed about with difficulties ; and did wrastle with the necessities of the times without shrinking , or succumbing under the burden : Besides it was he that planted and laid the foundation , upon which they builded so honorable interprises , & did perfect what they had begun . Some write that he being cited by King Edward , with others of this Countrie , appeared upon the citation , and that he was not apprehended by fraud or force , but came of his own accord to Berwick : which if he did , it hath not been to confesse , or acknowledge any servitude , or homage , as due to Edward , or the English , but to plead for the liberty of his Countrey , and to protest and testifie against his usurpation . Others say , that he and the Bishop of Glasgow being challenged to pertake in a conspiracy against King Edward , under a pretext of a treatie with Per●…ie , ( to avoid the imputation of disloyaltie and treason , of which he would not be partaker ) he came and yeelded himself to the King , which if it be true , was a very honourable and generous fact , remarkable and rare to be found , that no love of his Countrey , nor hatred of tyranny ( so strong and powerfull motives ) could draw him to be partaker of any dishonest action , though against his enemy . Methinks such noble carriage might have procured more noble dealing at King Edwards hands , and have wrung more favour from him , which since it did not , it may be taken as an argument , as want of goodnesse in himself , who had neither judgement to discern in vertue , nor a heart to honour it in others : But for my owne part I thinke it most likely that hee was taken by one means or other , and brought in against his will ; but whether hee were brought in with his will , or came in against his will , that word of yeelding ( which they ascribe to him ) is either very impertinent , or else very warily to be understood ; to wit , for the yielding of his person onely , not of the liberty of his Countrie , which he never yeelded : neither for the acknowledging of any English authority over it or himself which he never would do , but choose rather to die in prison in Hogs towre in Berwick . There are that say he was sent from Barwick to Newcastle , and from thence carried to Yorke , in the Castle whereof he died , and was buried in a little Chappell at the fouth end of the bridge which is now altogether decayed . His death ( which is rec●…ned of some to have fallen out in the yeare 1307. ) must have been sooner in the year 1302. for his sonne Sir James returned into Scotland in the yeare 1303. when Edward was at Stirling , where the Bishop of Saint Andrewes did recommend him to the King : Now Sir James came not home till he heard newes of his fathers death . It is also said of this Lord , that he had the Isle of Man , whether as heritable possessour , or as Governour onely it is not known ; but it is well known that this Island belonged to the Crown of Scotland , and that the Douglasses have had more then an ordinary interest therein ; Douglas Castle , and Douglas Haven , which carry their names to this day , do beare sufficient witnesse . But whether from this man or some other , is not so easie to determine peremptorily . Of good Sir James , the first James , and eighth Lord of Douglas . THe next is James , commonly called good Sir James , whom men account as the first , of whom the house of Douglas received the beginning of their greatnesse , which came at last to exceed others so farre , that it did almost passe the bounds of private subjects . He was as we have said already , sonne to the same William by his first wife the Lord Keeths sister : his education in his youth is said to have been in vertue and letters ; first at Glasgowe , aftetwards at Paris : for his father being encombred with warres , and last imprisoned , his uncle Robert Keeth conveyed him away to Paris in the time of Philip le bell , where he remained exercising himself in all vertuous exercise , and profited so well , that he became the most complete , and best accomplished young noble man in the Countrey , or elsewhere . Being certified of his fathers death , the love of his native soile made him to return into Scotland , to order the course of his life , by the counsell and advice of his friends . But when he came home , finding his patrimony disposed by King Edward to the Lord Clifford , and his friends scattered and dispersed , having by his mother some relation of kindred to William Lambert Archbishop of Saint Andrewes , he addressed himself to him , who did receive him kindly , and entertain him nobly . And when King Edward the first was come to Stirling in his last journey ( at what time he in a manner overanne all Scotland , and destroyed the monuments thereof ) the Archbishop going thither to salute him , carried this young man along with him : and taking his opportunity , presented him to King Edward , humbly intreating him to take him into his protection , and to restore him into his fathers inheritance , and imploy him in his service , as a youth of great hope and expectation , and such as might be usefull and stedable if he should be pleased to use him . The King demanded what he was , and having understood what his name and lineage was , and that he was sonne to Lord William , did absolutely refuse to do him any courtesie , or favour , nay he could not abstain from reproachfull and contumelious words against the obstinacy and treason ( so was he pleased to nickname vertue ) of his father , saying , that he had no service for him , nor for any such traitours son as his father was ; that he had given his lands to better men then himselfe , and those that had done him better service then he was able to doe ; and though they had not been given , yet would he never have given them to him . So implacable he was , and such pride had he conceived , with contempt of the deprest estate of this supplicant , little remembring the variablenesse of the estate of man ; and little knowing or considering , what weight and moment may be in one man alone , in whatsoever condition , to braule sometimes , and to help even to disappoint and overthrow the enterprises of the mightiest Monarchs . It came even so to passe in this man , who did this Kings sonne and successour such a piece of shrewd service , as he had never the like in all his life : which had been more shrewd , if the speed of his horses , and the undutifulnesse of some Scots , that received him into their Castle of Dumbarre , when he fled from Bannockburne , had not stood him in better steed , then all his huge Hoast and rich Kingdome , wherewith he was so puffed up . Whereby Princes and great men may learne , not to despise the meannesse and most afflicted state of any , nor to loose the reins neither to unjust actions , or reproachfull words . Sir James being thus rebuked , what could he do against a King , a Monarch , a victorious and triumphant King ? to whom all had yeelded , with whom all went right well , in his ruffe , in his highest pitch , in his grandor , compassed about with his guards , with his armies : to controll him , he was not able ; to plead for justice , it would avail him nothing ; to reply , could profit him lesse : a Prince , his victors word is a law , nay more then a law for the time . There was no contesting , no contradicting , were his speeches never so unjust : he behoved to swallow this pill ( how bitter soever ) there was no remedy but patience . Nay , the Archbishop must be silent also , and dares not mutter one word , wherefore home he goes with this scorn , to expect a better time of replying : not in words , but deeds , and of showing what service he was able to have done to him . The occasion of which though it were over long in coming in respect of his desire , yet did fall out , not very long after : for within two or three years ( 1305. ) Robert Bruce came into Scotland , not yet a King ( save in courage ) but having right to be King of the Countrey , whom Edward had served in the same kind , and who had received the like answer and scorn in a Petition not unlike , for both did crave their fathers inheritance , Sir James onely a Lordship , and the Bruce a whole Kingdome , which was but his due , and he had done him better service then Sir James . He had fought against his own Countrey for him , spent the bloud of his friends , and his owne , in hope of it ; with great losse to himself , and example to others not to do the like . But neither duety , nor desert , nor promise could oversway his ambition , and master it so farre , as to suffer him to perform what he had promised : and not content to have fed this Prince with the food of fools , faire hopes , and after so much imployment and many notable services , to frustrate him , he must needs also embitter all , with a flouting answer to his demand . To such a height of pride had prosperity raised him , that no modesty could keep him from loosing the reins to an unbridled tongue , which doth never beseem a man , much lesse a Prince : wherefore as hatred and despight did animate him against Sir James , for his fathers refusing to serve him : so ambition did work the same affection in him against Robert , though he had served him ; both were refused of their suits , both their petitions were rejected ; the one with spight , the other with derision . What ( saith King Edward , being urged with his promise of giving the Kingdome of Scotland to Bruce ) N'avons nous autre chose a faire , que de conquerir des royaumes pour vous ? speaking in French , Have we nothing else to do , but to conquer Kingdomes for you ? Kings , Potentates , Victors , should not be pressed with their promises : So they think , and so men say ; lawes are not made for them , which they leap over at their pleasure . And it might be thought so perhaps , if their power were perfect , and if there were not a more absolute and over ruling power , that is able to range them under reason . We shall finde it so even in this particular in the owne time , although this were no time for him to reply : no more then it had been for Sir James at Stirling . But the time being now come in the yeare 1305. as said is . But the time being now come , though not so fit as he could have wished , yet as it was he behoved to use it , and make vertue of necessitie . And so withdrawing himself secretly out of England , he came to Dumfreis , and there slew John Cummin his greatest enemy , determining from thenceforth to behave and carry himself as King of this Realme . And here by the way , we may observe Gods providence towards this Kingdome , in preserving the liberties thereof , who had before stirred up William Wallace like another Sampson to vindicate it out of the hand of the English. Now that he is gone , he sends home our lawfull Prince , and righteous successour to the Crown , to fight our battles for us , and to perfect the work which the other had begun ; onely for so much as about this time , John Monteeth under colour of friendship , had betrayed William Wallace into the hands of the English for money ; and he being taken and carried to London , was by King Edwards command , tortured and put to death with great cruelty ; and his armes , and legs , and head , hung up in the most eminent places and Cities both of England and Scotland . Of which fact of Edwards we will say no more , but onely set down the said Wallaces Epitaph , which is perfixed to that book that is written of his exploits in Scots rime . The Epitaph is in latine verse , but the Authour is incertain , and the more is the pity , for he deserves to have been better known . Thus it is , Invida morstristi Gulielmum funere vallam , Quae cuncta collit , Sustulit Et tanto pro cive , cinis ; pro finibus urna est , Frigusque pro loricâ , obit . Ille licet terras loca se inferiora , reliquit : At fata factis supprimens , Parte sui meliore solum , Coelumque perrerat Hoc spiritu , illud gloria . At tibi si inscriptum generoso pectus honesto Fuisset , hostis proditi Artibus , Angle , tuis in poenas parcior esses , Nec oppidatim spargeres Membra viri sacranda adytis , sed scin quid in ista Immanitate viceris Ut vallae in cunctas or as spargantur & horas Laudes , tuumque ded●…cus . A verse , whereof Buchanan needed not to have been ashamed . Envious Death , who ruines all , Hath wrought the sad lamented fall Of Wallace , and no more remains Of him , then what an Urn contains . Ashes for our Heroe we have , He for his armour a cold grave . He left the earth too low a state , And by his worth o're came his fate . His soul death had no power to kill , His noble deeds the world doth fill With lasting Trophies of his name . O! hadst thou vertue loved , or fame ; Thou couldst not have insulted so Over a brave betraid dead foe , Edward , nor seen those limbs expos'd To publick shame , sit to be clos'd As Reliques , in a holy shrine ; But now the infamy is thine . His end crownes him with glorious bayes , And stains the brightest of thy praise . But to return to our Sir James : he is no sooner advertised of the Bruces arrivall into Scotland , and of the Cummins slaughter , when without either summons or intreaty ( save of his own mind in that common case simpathising with the other ) he resolves to try his fortune in that course with him . But what could he do ( poore Gentleman ) being in such necessity , and destitute of all help : he had neither horse , nor armour ; nor followers for such a businesse : all was gone , and violently taken from him by the iniquity of the times , and the prevailing of the enemie . There was neither friend nor mean left for his provision . Shall he burden Archbishop Lambert ? what could a Prelate do ? what could he , especially being under the beasts feet , as we say , and subject to King Edward ? It is better sometimes to force a friend , then to indanger him . Compulsion may be used where there is perill in the consenting : chiefly if the party be not unwilling , the ground right , and the cause good : otherwise , violence is never to be attempted , neither is iniquity , fraud or falsehood , ( evill and hurtfull courses ) either against private men , or the publick state to be warranted by this example . To it he goes , and robs Lambert of what he durst not give him : he inticeth his servants ; whose hearts did serve them to serve him in that hazard , whom their Lord durst not command to go with him : he takes also some gold from him , and provides himself a horse and armour , and that all might seem to bee done by the strong hand ; and violence might plead for the Bishop at King Edwards hands , he beats the rest of the servants that were left behind , and so goes away with the prey : An honourable robber , and just spoiler ! He meets Robert Bruce at Arickstone in the head of Anandale . If he were welcome or not , I leave it to the consideration of the Reader : he was received as his Cousin , and used as a companion , and continued a faithfull Friend and loyall Subject , so long as their dayes continued , without variance , emulation or jealousie , or grudge on either side . A happy King by such a servant ! A happy servant by such a Prince ! A happy Countrey by such a society and pair of worthy friends ! ( So it is where vertues encounter , begetting mutuall affection , and produce notable effects . ) The Bishop of Rosse John Leslie sayes , that he carried this money to Bruce from the Archbishop , and makes no mention of any force , whose commendation of this James is not amisse to be here inserted . Hoc tempore quidam Jacobus Duglasius , altissimi animi , & ad quaevis pericula subeunda paratissimi adolescens , dum cum animo suo reputat Robertum ( omnibus virtutum ornamentis excultum ) injustis Anglorum armis vexari , & iniquis belli telis consigi , ab Episcopo Sancto Andreapolitano , in cujus fuit comitatu , pecuniam grandem ad Roberti causam labantem sustentandam impetravit ; illamque illi quam ●…lerrime tulit . Cui in bello strenuam , in pace liberam , in adversis fidelem , in prosperis jucunda●… operam per reliquum vitae curriculum semper post ea navavit . Ab hoc Jacobo clarissima Duglasiorum familia primum sue Nobilitatis nomen accepisse perhibetur . In English thus : At this time one James Douglas , a youth of high spirit , and ready to undergo whatsoever perill , considering with himself how Robert Bruce ( a man adorned with all vertues ) was vexed with the unjust armes of the English , and pursued with warre against all equity : obtained of the Bishop of Saint Andrews ( in whose company he was ) a great summe of money , to uphold the now declining cause of Robert ; which money he carried to him with all diligence , and ever after aided him in his warres valiantly : in peace he was free and upright , pleasant in prosperity , and faithfull in adversity , during all the dayes of his life . From this James the noble family of the Douglasses is counted to have taken the beginning of greatnesse : so farre John Lesley . To return : their efforts at first were of exceeding hard successe . Robert Bruce was crowned at Scone in the yeare 1306. in April , at which Sir James assisted , casting into a heape , as others did , a quantity of earth of his lands of Douglas , which making a little hill , it is called yet Omnis terra . This was the custome of those times , by which homage they that held the King of Scotland Supreme under God , were distinguished from others . Some moneths after the coronation , about the 19. of June , they were defeated in a conflict at Methven by Odamarre de Val●…nce Earle of Pembroke , but without any great losse of men : for they being few in number , and perceiving their inequalitie , fled betimes , while their men were yet in breath and unwearied , having adventured so far rather to trie their fortune , what it was like to prove in their maine intentions , then in hope of victorie , where there was so great odds every way . There were taken at this battell Sir Thomas Randulph a young stripling , Sir Alexandar Fraser , Sir David Barclay , Insh Mairtin , Hugh de la Hay , or Hugh Hay , Somervale , and some others , whom Sir Aimer Valence caused to promise fealty to the King of England , and on that condition saved their lives : especially Randulph , who is remarked after this to have beene very forward for the King of England , till he was taken againe by Sir James Douglas , as we shall heare hereafter . After this battell they retired to the Castle of Kildrummie , where the Queene and divers other Ladies remained in great scarcitie of vivers , being sustained most part by what Sir James Douglas tooke by hunting and fishing . Not long after , as they went by Athole into Argyle , Athole having intelligence of them , invaded them , together with Lorne his sisters , and constrained them to fight at a place called Dalree ( which is to say , The Kings field ) about the twelfth of August ; their fortune was no better then it had beene before , the day was lost , some but not many of their men slaine , they themselves put to flight , and by flight faine to save their lives by lurking amongst the hils for a season in a most desert place , living upon roots and herbs , and lying in the open fields on the bare ground , or among the heath , sometimes but with one , other times with none to attend them , being uncertaine whom to trust , in that frowning of fortune , when commonly there are but few that remain friends , and many become enemies , base minds seeking thereby either to avoid harm , or to gain favour of the stronger . At last finding that they were hotly hunted after , and hardly followed , they thought it their safest way to go to the Western Isles . Lochlowmond lay in their way , whether being come , and having found an old boat , Sir James ( however expert in that Art before ) having learned so much by that great Schoolmaster Necessity , rowed his King over this Lake in a night and half a day . Thus saith the manuscript , but it seemeth rather to have been some other Lake then Lochlowmond , or rather some inlet of the Sea ( which are called sometimes Lakes ) between the main Land and the Isle in which they lurked : because Lochlowmond is of no such breadth , as that it should be esteemed a great matter to row over it in that space : and besides they did row to an Isle where they did rest amongst our Aebudes , to none of which Lochlowmond is adjacent . The Bruces book saith not that they rowed through the Lake to the Isle , but through the Lake to the next land , and then passed to the Sea side where they provided boats in which they sailed to the Isles . It attributes also this rowing to others , then Sir James , though hee were the first finder of the old boate . Thus it went with them , and to such an exigent was the hope of our Countrey brought . Thus we see these great minds , and ( afterwards ) great men in a base , poore , and perillous , but never miserable estate ( which vertue is not capable of ) desolate in it self , destitute of friends , and their first attempts dasht by the mean under Captains of their great enemy King Edward . But ere they have done , they shall make his successour to flie in the like sort in a small fisher boat , poorely accompanied to save his owne person , after the losse of his army . On such moments do the hopes and fears of mortall men depend , and such vicissitude is the estate of those glorious crowns subject unto , which men do so much affect , with such travell and turmoil ; as for them , it was not the Crowne onely , but their libertty also , that they suffered for : and not their owne liberty alone , but the freedome of their Countrie and Patriots , which they sought to maintain against injustice , fraud and violence . Wherefore we never heare that they fainted at any time , or dispaired any time in the midst of dispair : such force hath a good cause in a good heart , the Authour of goodnesse , no doubt sitting at the rudder of that boat , and preserving the old sheards of it , so that they gave no place to the violence of the waves , and their hearts from yeelding to that despair that every way did assault them , untill he had finished that work he had to do with them ; for recovering the liberty of their Countrey , and beating down the pride of tyranny , that hee might in all this show his own might and prerogative , in casting down and setting up at his pleasure . Such hard beginnings have oftentimes the greatest works , and so little ought either hope or dispaire bee grounded on the first successe . Being landed in this little Isle , which the Bruces book calls Rachrine , ( other Authours name it not ) they remained a while hidden there with a speciall friend of King Roberts ; both the Isle and the man being worthy of more expresse honour , and a perpetuall memory of their names : he for his faithfull friendship , the Isle for its safe receit , and harbouring so good guests , and their good luck after this receit , their efforts from hence forward having been almost ever prosperous . Their safety was ( most part ) in this , that men believed they were not safe ; ceasing to seek those whom ( they thought ) had ceased to be , taking them to have perished , because they appeared no where to the view of the world . Like example is long since recorded of Masinissa King of Numidia : and their lurking doth bring forth the like fruit and effects . But it was not fit for them to lurk too long : their friends might so have been discouraged , and losing hope , have forsaken the cause , whereby the work would have been the more difficult , if not impossible . Therefore to begin again afresh , the King obtains from his good friend some small company of men , and Sir James with fourty of these ( which hee got of the King ) went and tooke in the Castle of Arane by a stratagem . A small , but happy flourishing of a better spring time , after that their tempestuous winter , which shall yeeld a full harvest , and bring forth the ripe fruit of liberty to their Countrey , and the settling of the Kingdome to his master , and his posterity , untill these our dayes , and we hope for ever . Thither came the King also within two dayes ( and hearing of them ) Malcolme Earle of Lennox . These sailed from thence into Carrict , where they tooke a Castle of the Kings proper inheritance , but the Writers do not name it . And here indeed the course of the Kings misfortunes begins to make some halt and stay , by thus much prosperous successe in his own person ; but more in the person of Sir James , by the re-conquests of his owne Castles , and Countries : from hence he went into Douglasdale , where by the means of his fathers old servant Thomas Dickson he tooke in the Castle of Douglas , and not being able to keep it , he caused burn it , contenting himself with this , that his enemies had one strength fewer in that Countrey than before . The manner of his taking of it is said to have beene thus : Sir James taking onely with him two of his servants , went to Thomas Dickson , of whom he was received with tears , after he had revealed himselfe to him , for the good old man knew him not at first , being in meane and homely apparell . There he kept him secretly in a quiet chamber , and brought unto him such as had beene trusty servants to his father , not all at once , but apart and by one and one , for feare of discoverie . Their advice was , that on Palmsunday , when the English would come forth to the Church , being a solemne Holiday , he with his two servants should come thither apparelled like countrey taskers , with mantles to cover their armour , and when he should perceive that the English were in the Church , and his partners were conveened , that then he should give the word , and cry the Douglas slogan , and presently set upon them that should happen to be there , who being dispatched , the Castle might be taken easily . This being concluded , and they come , so soone as the English were entred into the Church with Palmes in their hands ( according to the custome of that day ) little suspecting or fearing any such thing ; Sir James , according to their appointment , cryed too soone ( a Douglas , a Douglas ) which being heard in the Church ( this was Saint Brides Church of Douglas ) Thomas Dickson , supposing he had beene hard at hand , drew out his sword , and ran upon them , having none to second him , but an other man , so that oppressed with the multitude of his enemies , he was beaten downe , and slaine . In the meane time Sir James being come , the English that were in the Chancel kept off the Scots , and having the advantage of the strait and narrow entrie , defended themselves manfully . But Sir James encouraging his men , not so much by words , as by deeds and good example , and having slain the boldest resisters , prevailed at last , and entring the place , slew some 26 of their number , and tooke the rest , about 10. or 12. persons , intending by them to get the Castle upon composition , or to enter with them when the gates should be opened to let them in : but it needed not , for they of the Castle were so secure , that there was none left to keepe it save the porter and the cooke , who knowing nothing of what had hapned at the Church , which stood a large quarter of a mile from thence , had left the gate wide open , the porter standing without , and the Cooke dressing the dinner within . They entred without resistance , and meat being ready , and the cloth laid , they shut the gates , and tooke their refection at good leasure . Now that he had gotten the Castle into his hands , considering with himselfe ( as he was a man no lesse advised then valiant ) that it was hard for him to keep it , the English being as yet the stronger in that Countrey , who if they should besiege him , he knew of no reliefe ; he thought better to carry away such things as be most easily transported , gold , silver , and apparell , with ammunition and armour , whereof he had greatest use and need , and to destroy the rest of the provision , together with the Castle it selfe , then to diminish the number of his followers , for a garrison there where they could do no good . And so he caused carrie the meale and malt , and other cornes and graine , into the Cellar , and layd all together in one heape : then he took the prisoners and slew them , to revenge the death of his trustie and valiant servant Thomas Dickson , mingling the victuals with their bloud , and burying their carcasses in the heap of corne : after that he struck out the heads of the barrells and puncheons , and let the drink runne through all , and then he cast the carkasses of dead horses and other carrion amongst it , throwing the salt above all , so to make altogether unusefull to the enemie ; and this Cellar is called yet the Douglas Lairder . Last of all , he set the house on fire , and burnt all the timber , and what else the fire could overcome , leaving nothing but the scorched walls behind him . And this seemes to be the first taking of the Castle of Douglas , for it is supposed that he took it twice . For this service , and others done to Lord William his father , Sir James gave unto Thomas Dickson the lands of Hisleside , which hath beene given him before the Castle was taken , as an encouragement to whet him on , and not after , for he was slaine in the Church : which was both liberally and wisely done of him , thus to hearten and draw men to his service by such a noble beginning . The Castle being burnt , Sir James retired , and parting his men into divers companies , so as they might be most secret , he caused cure such as were wounded in the fight , and he himselfe kept as close as he could , waiting ever for an occasion to enterprise something against the enemie . So soone as he was gone , the Lord Clifford being advertised of what had happened , came himselfe in person to Douglas , and caused re-edifie and repair the Castle in a very short time , unto which he also added a Tower , which is yet called Harries Tower , from him , and so returned into England , leaving one Thruswall to be Captain thereof . Sir James his men being cured of their wounds , and refreshed with rest , he returned again to the King , at what time he was ready to fight with Sir Aymore Valence , the Lord of Lorne , and Sir Thomas Randulph , at Cumnock . The King had not above 400. men , so that being almost encompassed by the enemie ere he was aware , he was forced to forsake the field , having lost his Banner , which was taken by Sir Thomas Randulph , by which he got great credit with King Edward . King Robert in his flight , or retreat , divided his men into three companies , that went severall wayes , that so the enemie being uncertaine in what company he himself were , and not knowing which to pursue rathest , he might the better escape . When they were all come againe to the place of their rendezvous , which the King had appointed when he divided them , Sir James Douglas perswaded the King to set upon a company of the enemies , who were very securely lying by themselves farre from the body of the Army , without feare of any danger which the King did , and having slaine 200. of them , he scattered the rest . After this , Sir Aymore Valence ( being then Warden for King Edward in Scotland , and residing himselfe at Bothwell ) sent Sir Philip Mowbray with a company of men , about 100. into Coile and Cunninghame , to keepe the Inhabitants in their obedience to England ; whereof when Sir James Douglas had notice , and knowing the way by which they must go ( called Machanacks way ) he lay in a straight foord betweene two marishes , called Ederfoord , accompanied with some 40. choice men , and there rising up of a sudden , ere Sir Philip was aware , they routed his men , and chased himselfe , who did escape very narrowly , for he left his sword with them , and fled alone to Kilmarnock and Kilwinnin , the rest back to Bothwell . This was before the battell of Lowdoun hill , where both the King and Sir James were present , at which they defeated Sir Aymore Valence and 3000. men , they having onely 500. which Sir Aymore tooke so to heart , that he retired himselfe into England , where he gave over his charge of Warden , and never returned into Scotland againe with any command , except it were when the King came in person . The English Chronicle sayes that the King discharged Sir Aymore who was Earle of Penbrooke , and placed John de Britton in his office , and made him Earle of Richmond . These particulars I cannot ghesse why they should have beene omitted by our Writers , being so remarkable defeats , where diligence , dexteritie , and valour , have beene used with wisedome and judgement . However , upon this withdrawing and departure of Sir Aymore Valence , King Robert being rid of the greatest danger , makes toward Innernesse , leaving Sir James behinde him , to recover such places as were still in the enemies hands . He therefore getting him into Douglasdale , did use this stratagem against Thruswall Captaine of the Castle of Douglas , under the Lord Clifford : hee caused some of his folkes drive away the cattell that fed neare unto the Castle , and when the Captaine of the garrison followed to rescue , gave order to his men to leave them , and to flee away . This he did often , to make the Captaine to slight such frayes , and to make him secure , that he might not suspect any further end to be in it : which when he had wrought sufficiently ( as he thought ) he laid some men in ambuscado , and sent others away to drive away such beasts as they should finde in the view of the Castle , as if they had been theeves and robbers , as they had done often before . The Captaine hearing of it , and supposing there was no greater danger now then had beene before , issued forth of the Castle , and followed after them with such haste , that his men ( running who should be first ) were disordered and out of their ranks . The drivers also fled as fast as they could , till they had drawne the Captaine a little beyond the place of the ambuscado ; which when they perceived , rising quickly out of their covert , set fiercely upon him , and his companie , and so slew himselfe , and chased his men back to the Castle , some of which were overtaken and slaine , others got into the Castle , and so were saved ; Sir James not being able to force the house , took what bootie he could get without in the fields ; and so departed . By this means , and such other exploits , he so affrighted the enemie , that it was counted a matter of great jeopardie to keepe this Castle , which began to be called the adventurous ( or hazzardous ) Castle of Douglas : whereupon Sir John Walton being in suit of an English Lady , she wrote to him , that when he had kept the adventurous Castle of Douglas seven yeares , then he might thinke himselfe worthy to be a sutor to her . Upon this occasion Walton tooke upon him the keeping of it , and succeeded to Thruswall , but he ran the same fortune with the rest that were before him . For sir James , having first dressed an ambuscado neare unto the place , he made fourteen of his men take so many sacks , and fil them with grasse , as though it had been corn , which they carried in the way toward Lanerik , the chief market town in that County : so hoping to draw forth the Captain by that bait , and either to take him , or the Castle , or both . Neither was this expectation frustrate , for the Captain did bite , and came forth to have taken this victuall ( as he supposed . ) But ere he could reach these carriers , Sir James with his company had gotten between the Castle and him : and these disguised carriers , seeing the Captain following after them , did quickly cast off their upper garments , wherein they had masked themselves , and throwing off their sacks , mounted themselves on horseback , and met the Captain with a sharp encounter , being so much the more amazed , as it was unlooked for : wherefore when he saw these carriers metamorphosed into warriours , & ready to assault him , fearing that which was , that there was some train laid for them , he turned about to have retired to the Castle , but there also hee met with his enemies ; between which two companies , he and his whole followers were slain , so that none escaped ; the Captain afterwards being searched , they found ( as it is reported ) his mistresse letter about him . Then hee went and tooke in the Castle , but it is uncertain ( say our writers ) whether by force , or composition ; but it seems that the Constable , and those that were within have yeelded it up without force ; in regard that hee used them so gently , which he would not have done if he had taken it at utterance . For he sent them all safe home to the Lord Clifford , and gave them also provision and mony for their entertainment by the way . The Castle which he had burnt onely before , now he razeth , and casts down the walls thereof to the ground . By these and the like proceedings , within a short while he freed Douglasdale , Atrick forrest , and Jedward forrest , of the English garrisons and subjection . But Thomas Randulph , Alexander Stuart Lord of Bonckle , and Adam Gordone , being Englized Scots , concluded to gather together their forces , and to expulse him out of those parts . Now it fell so out , that Sir James , intending to lodge at a certain house upon the water of Line , and being come hither for that purpose , by chance all these three were lodged in the same house before he came , which drew on a skirmish betwixt them , in which Alexander Stuart Lord of Bonckle , and Thomas Randulph , were taken prisoners , and Adam Gordone saved himself by flight . This peece of service was of no small importance , in regard of the good service done to the king by Thomas Randulph , both while the King lived , and after his death when he was regent , which all may be ascribed to Sir James , who conquered Randulph to the Kings side . With these his prisoners he went into the North , as farre as the Mernes , where he met the King returning from Innernesse , of whom he was heartily welcomed , both for his owne sake , and because he had brought him his Nephew Randulph , whom the King did chide exceedingly . And he again reproved the King out of his youthfulnesse and rash humour , as though he did defend the Crowne by flying , and not by fighting ; wherefore hee was committed to prison , thereafter pardoned ; and being made Earle of Murray , he was imployed in the Kings service . This is related in the Bruces book , and hath nothing fabulous or improbable in it : and therefore it ought not to be slighted : Especially seeing , as I am informed , the Book was penned by a man of good knowledge and learning , named master John Barbour , Archdeacon of Aberdene ; for which work he had a yearely pension out of the Exchequer during his life , which he gave to the Hospitall of that Towne , to which it is allowed and paid still in our dayes . He lived in the reigne of David the second sonne , and successour to King Robert Bruce . Sir James was with the King at Inverourie ( ten miles from Aberdene ) against John Cummine Earle of Buchan , who was there defeated on Ascension day , in the yeare 1308. From thence Sir James went with him when he recovered Argyle ; the Lord whereof had once comed in to the King , but was now revolted to the English side . And likewise at many more journeyes and roads , both in Scotland , and England , Sir James did ever more accompany him . In the year 1313. hee tooke in the Castle of Roxburgh , called then Marchmouth , whilest the King was busie about Dumfrees , Lanrick , Aire , and others ; and while Sir Thomas Randulph was lying at the Castle of Edinburgh : The manner of his taking of it was thus ; about Shrovetide which is a time of feasting and revelling , he with sixty more , having covered their armour with black , that they might not be discovered by the glittering thereof , went in the forenight toward the Castle ; & when they came neare to it they lay along , and crept upon their hands , and feet , through a bushie piece of ground , till they were come close to the foot of the wall . Those that did watch upon the Castle wall espied them ; but the night being dark , and by reason of their creeping they tooke them to have been cattell : for they at the foot of the wall heard the watchmen , ( there being two of them ) saying the one to the other , my neighbour such an one ( naming him by his name ) means to make good chear to night , that he hath no care of his cattell , but leaves them thus in the fields all the night : to whom the other replied , hee may make good chear this night , but if the Douglas come at them , he will fair the worse hereafter ; and with this discourse they went their way . Sir James and his men having heard this conference , were very well pleased withall , and glad to be so mistaken : they laddered the walls with ladders of cords , made by one Simon of the Leadhouse , who was also the first that adventured to scale with them himself alone , both to trie how they would hold unbroken , and to view what guard and watch was kept above . The man that stood sentinall saw him well enough , but because there were no more with him , he gave no alarum , but stood watching to have catched him on the top of the ladder , thinking to have knockt him down , or to have tumbled him headlong over the wall : but the other prevented the danger , and leaping in nimbly upon him ere he was aware , stabbed him with a knife , and threw him over the wall amongst his fellowes , to whom he called to make haste up , assuring them the coast was clear : but ere they could come up , another of the watch coming about , and perceiving a man standing on the wall , made towards him , but Simon dispatched him also . And now the rest of his companions were got up also , who marching towards the hall , they found the English at their shroving , eating , and drinking , and piping , and dancing . They entred the hall , he had but easie work of it , to do with them what he listed , being most of them drunke , and all of them unarmed : Onely the Captain ( Guillaum de fermes ) fled into the great tower being dangerously hurt with the shot of an arrow , where he remained safe all that night , but the next morning hee yeelded himself because of his wound , upon condition that his life should be safe , and his person safely set on English ground , which was willingly granted , and faithfully performed . But hee lived not long after , his wound being deadly and uncurable . Thus was the wheel of worldly affairs ( vvhich men call fortune ) so vvhirled about by the King , and his partners , that in this yeare 1313. being the seaventh from his Coronation , and the fifth or sixth from the beginning of the course of his victories , there vvas not one strength remaining in the possession , or povver of the English , save Dumbartane Castle ( which was afterward yeelded up by John Monteeth upon composition ) and Stirling , which at this present was besieged by Edward Bruce the Kings brother . To relieve Stirling , and to raise the siege thereof , King Edward the second came in proper person , and thereon insued the battell of Bannockburn ; a battell so famous and memorable , as few the like have happened in any age ; where there were two Kings present , the ods so great , and the defeat so notable . The English King did bring into the field all that he was able to make , not onely of English , but of his beyond sea dominions ; neither of those that were his owne Subjects onely , but hee was also aided and assisted by his friends and confederates , in Flanders , Holland , Zeland , Brabant , Picardie , Gascony , Normandy , Guien , Bullonois , and Burdeaux ; of these and his owne Countreymen , he had in all 150000. fighting men , to place them in the middle number , which some say was but half the number , and that he had 300000 of the whole , in equall proportion of foot and horse ; intending to have exterminated the whole nation of Scots , with so confident a presumption of victory , that he brought with him a Carmelite frier ( a Poet according to the time ) to commit his triumphs to writing : he was defeated by 30000 or 35000 at the most ( as all agree ) and that in a plain and open field , where there was slain of his men 50000. It was fought the 22 of June , 1314. Sir James being present at this Battell , did carry himselfe so before the fight , in the fight , and after it , as that his behaviour is not to be slightly slipped over with a dry foot ( as we say ) but particularly to be noted , both for his owne honour ( for it is indeed worthy of perpetuall honour and praise ) and for a patterne to be followed by others , especially by all such as set their hearts and minds to follow vertue , and to seek true glory , which ariseth from vertue . Before the battell , we have his kindnesse , love , and care of his friend , or ( as some will have him to be ) his emulous Competitor , joyned with true magnanimitie in his demeanour towards Thomas Randulph : for King Robert having sent Randulph with 500. horse to oppose the Lord Clifford with 800. who was making toward the Castle of Stirling ; Sir James carefull for his friend in respect of this ods in number , first very orderly sought leave of the King to go to his succours , but after the King had refused him , he went out without leave ; which though it were a kinde of breach of militarie discipline , yet it shewes how dearly he loved the man , that for his sake he would thus transgresse the order of the warre , and to take his hazzard of the Kings displeasure , rather then to forsake him in this great danger , as he took it to be . And as he shewed his love and kindnesse in this ( a vertue of great price , and greatly to be commended ) so did he also his modestie , courtesie , and magnanimitie ( all three concurring in one fact , and much more commendable ) in that hee seeing his friend to have the better of the enemie , stood aloofe as a spectator , for feare to impaire his glory in that victorie , by being a sharer with him therein . Weake mindes seeke to participate of other mens glory , and for want of worth in themselves thrust in with others . Base and meane spirits are wont to lessen and diminish the actions of others , because they have no hope to equall them . Malignant dispositions envie them , and approve of nothing but what is their owne , and would have it thought that they onely are able to do all things , and that none besides them can do any thing . As these vices were here farre from this man , so should they be as farre from all others : and as the contrary vertues did shine in him , so let them also doe in us . And thus he behaved himselfe before the Battell . In the Battell he with Randulph had the leading of the Vantguard , wherein he discharged himselfe so well , that for his good service he was knighted in the field . This honour in those dayes was given for desert , and was a badge and seale of valour , not of favour or riches , as now it is for the most part : neither was it so ordinary and common as now it is , and by commonnesse prostitute as it were , and dis-esteemed . But that it was in great esteeme of old it appeares by this , that notwithstanding this mans predecessours , and himselfe also ( as his evidents do witnesse ) were Barons and Lords , yet he thinks it no disparagement to be knighted , and did choose rather to be known and designed by that title , than the other ; so as he was commonly called Sir James Douglas , rather then Lord Douglas . And indeed we have found that even Princes and Kings have taken upon-them this order , not as any diminution of their place , but an addition of honour , seeing by it they were received into the number and rank of military men and Warriours ; their other titles shewing more their dominion and power , or place , then their valour and courage . Wherefore we reade how Edward Prince of Wales was knighted when he was sent against King Bruce : So Henry the second , being then Prince of England , received the honour of Knighthood from David King of Scotland , his grand Uncle , as from one that was the best and worthiest man in his time . Then it was that he tooke his oath , that he should never take from the Crowne of Scotland , the Counties of Northumberland , Westmoreland , Cumberland , and Huntingdon . This cremonie vvas performed vvith great solemnitie and pomp in those dayes , as our Writers observe : so honourable vvas it then ; and of late it vvas thought so too : for the Earle of Clanrikart ( chiefe of the Bourks in Ireland ) having done a piece of notable service to Queene Elisabeth at the siege of Kinsoile , and at an encounter betvvene the Lord Deputies Army vvith the Irish Rebels , vvas knighted by the Lord Mon●…joy , then Generall Lieutenant for the Queene . Neither should any abuse discredit it novv . Nor can it diminish the honourablenesse thereof in our Sir James , who is able to honour it rather by his worth . After the battell he is as diligent ( as he was both diligent and valorous ) in it . This is a vertue which hath been wanting in great Commanders , and hath been marked as a great defect in them . It was told Hanniball that great Carthaginian to his face : Thou canst obtain , but not use a victory , nor prosecute it to thy best advantage . Sir James did not so , but as farre as he was able , with such companies as hee could gather together , and with as much speed as was possible for him , hee followed King Edward to have done him service , though his father Edward the first would have none of it , and set it at nought . But he was gone ere Sir James service came to the best : Now hee would gladly have showne what it was worth to his sonne and successour ( the second Edward ) in most humble sort , though it had been to have pulled off his boots ( no question ) but his Majestie had no mind to stay for him , who notwithstanding made all the haste he could to have overtaken him , and followed him with foure hundred horse more then fourty miles from Bannockburne , to Dumbarre Castle , into which hee was received , and so escaped . The next was to wait upon him in his way to Berwicke , which he did ; but the King nothing well pleased with the service hee had done , and expecting rather worse then better , seeing his importunity , and that other wayes he could not be rid of him , went by sea to Berwicke in a small fishers boat or two , with a very thinne train to attend him : not unlike unto Xerxes who a little before was so proud of his huge army , is now become the scorne of his contemned and threatned enemies , a spectacle of pride , and an example of presumptuous confidence unto all ages . Wee told before hovv his father had driven King Robert and Sir James to the like shifts and straits , but theirs vvas not so shamefull . A Christenmasse feast may be quit at Easter , sayes our Proverb , vvhich they do here verefie by this requitall : And this vvas all the service Sir James could do to King Edward at this time : but aftervvards vve shall heare vvhat service he shall do , if not to himself , yet to his sonne , Edward the third , at Stanhop Parke some few yeares after this . In the mean time let us behold our Scots , enjoying there renowned and honourable victory , which cannot bee denied to have been such , nor cannot be by envy it self . Their spoil and prey was great and rich , their prisoners many , and their ransomes proportionable . The Queen ( King Roberts wife ) was restored by exchange , and for her an English Nobleman set free without ransome : And as their joy was great , and their gaining not small , so was both the grief of the English , their shame and their losses . Their were slain of note in the field 200 Knights , together with the Earle of Glocester , and Sir Giles of Argentine ( whose death was lamented by King Robert very much ) and of prisoners very nere as many , of which the chief were the Earle of Hartford , who fled to Bothwell , and was received by Sir Gilbert Gilbaston captain thereof , ( as the Bruces booke sayes ) Sir John Segrave , John Clattengrave ( perhaps Cattegrave ) William Latimer , Sir Robert Northbrooke ( Lord keeper of the broad seal ) and Sir Ralph Mortimer , who had married the Kings sister . Mortimer was dimitted ransome-free , and obtained the Kings broad Seale at Bruces hands . These and many other prisoners of divers nations thus dismissed , are as many witnesses of the Scottish valour in the fight , and of their mildnesse and humanitie after it , who used these their so spightfull enemies no worse , who if they had overcome , would have used another kinde of cruelty , as they had both determined and threatned unto them . Amongst other Forreiners , there were two Holland Knights , who being in King Edwards Army before the battell , and hearing the bravery and brags of the English , and their spightfull railings against King Robert , had wished him good luck . These were turned out of the English Camp , and sent unto the Scottish , bidden in scorne to go and fight with them whom they wished so well , with a price set upon their heads to him that should either kill or take them prisoners in the battell . Their heads neverthelesse were safe , and themselves did partake of the good fortune they had wished ; and when they came home into their owne Countrey , they built a lodging , naming it Scotland , upon which they set up the Scottish Armes , and King Roberts statue in Antwerp , as a monument of that notable victorie ; which remained there many yeares after . The Carmelite also changed his note , singing their victorie , whose overthrow he came to set forth ; and chaunting their discomfiture , whose praises he was hired to proclaime . Thus he began his Ditty . De planctu cudo metrum cum carmine nudo , Risun●… detrudo , dum tali themate ludo . In English thus : With barren verse this mournfull rime I make , And am but laught at , while such theme I take . Let us here consider the meanes and wayes of both sides , we shal finde on the one side confidence of their power , and a contempt and slighting of the enemie , which seldome falls well , because from thence there ariseth commonly sloth , negligence , disorder , and confusion : on the other side we may see carefulnesse , diligence , order , and exhortation , all possible meanes used both humane and divine : wisedome joyned with religion , and prayer , and what pious formes were then in use . They digged trenches and ditches , which they covered with greene turfe , for the horsemen to fall into , and did knit together and twist as it were a net of crosse ropes to entangle the footmen : which stratagems being seconded with true courage , resolution , and valour of the common souldiers and Commanders , together with the device of those that were set to keep the baggage , the sculs , and grooms , who made showes and musters , as if they had beene another armie ( of their owne head , without the direction of any ) were the chiefe meanes of the victorie . For the first was the overthrow of the men at armes , and barbed horses , and the second the bane of the middle battell of the English , who seeing this trap laid for them , fled presently , and turned their backs . But above all these , the principall and prime cause was even the Lord of hosts , who guided all these , and gave successe unto them . Let no mortall man ever think other of any his enterprises , or that any man , however wise , provident , or valorous , can use his wisedome , providence , or valour , or whatever other vertue he hath , to any purpose , or succesfully , unlesse it be given him in the very instant of using it . A lesson much inculcat , but little learned ; often approved by experience , but seldome marked , or soone forgotten ; at least little appearing by our practice , and which doth produce no other effect but a superficiall acknowledgement , and slender confession thereof . But to returne to our Douglas : though the King himselfe did thus escape his service , yet out of all doubt he hath beene imployed against his subjects , seeing our Historians doe tell us , that after this battell there were divers incursions made into England , for which they never stirred , but sate quiet for 2. or 3. yeares : howbeit there are no particulars set downe . In the yeare 1316. King Robert Bruce went into Ireland to support his brother Edward Bruce made King of Ireland ; and King Edward of England thinking this a fit opportunity for him to be revenged on the Scots , did levie a great Armie , and came to the borders of Scotland , hoping to doe some notable exploit now in the Kings absence . But many things faile that are intended , and princes as well as others may be disappointed of their purposes , and frustrate of their hopes . It seemes he had forgotten , or not well considered what a Lieutenant he had left behinde him , and how good a second Sir James had alwayes beene to his master the King. But howbeit he knew it not perhaps , or would not take any notice of him , yet King Robert knew it full well , and put such trust and confidence in his well knowne worth and sufficiencie , that he durst go abroad out of his owne Kingdome , and hazzard himselfe and the flower of the youth in Ireland , concrediting the Countrey unto his care and conduct , leaving him Governour in his absence , and entailing the Crowne unto him next unto Thomas Randulph , by making him Protectour of the young King during his minority , if he himselfe should happen to die in that voyage , as the blacke booke of Scone doth witnesse . And indeed Sir James did not deceive the Kings expectation and trust , neither did King Edward finde him asleepe , but watchfull and diligent in his charge , as became a good Governour : for he raised an Army to give him battell , and put both him and his people to flight , slew three notable Captains with his owne hand , Sir Edward Lillow a Gascoine , Captaine of Berwick ; others call him Callock , and say that he was slaine at the rescue of a bootie which he had taken in the Merse and Tivedale ; which narration agreeth with the Bruces booke , which calls him Edmond de Callock . The second was Sir Robert Nevill , and the third a Nobleman whom they doe not name , onely they say that Sir James slew him with his owne hand : but the Bruces booke calls him John de Richmond , and sayes he slew him in Jedward Forrest , in the midst of his Armie , Sir James having very few with him , not above fiftie horse , and some Archers , in a strait Cleugh or Valley , betweene two hills , which he had of purpose taken as a place of advantage ; and tying together the young birk trees by their boughs in the way by which the English were to passe , the horsemen being entangled in the thickets , he set upon them and defeated them . From hence it is that some think the Earls of Douglas and Angus have stakes & rice in their Coat of Armes ; yet such points of Heraldrie are hard to interpret and give a reason for them . This was the second peece of service that he did to King Edward himselfe ( say some others ) but others say that the King was not there in person , but sent a great Army commanded by divers Captains , with whom Sir James fought in three severall battells , at three sundry times , and slew all their Chiestains , with most part of their companies . Others againe affirme that in every one of those battels he slew the Commander with his owne hand in sight of both Armies , the which whatsoever way it was , the victorie was notable and glorious . And thus did he governe in the Kings absence . He had beene a good subject before when the King was present , now we see how well he governes when he is absent , and at his returne laying downe his authoritie , and returning to his former subjection , he proves as good a companion and colleague unto Thomas Randulph ( then made Earle of Murray ) with whom the King did joyne him for the prosecuting of the warres . It is seldome found that these vertues are so happily linked together in one person , abilitie to governe , and willingnesse to be subordinate , and obey ; excellencie of parts , and patient enduring of an equall and companion . I have often observed and admired it in these two ( the ground whereof seemes chiefly to have beene in Sir James his love and modestie , as we observe in his carriage towards this man at Bannockburne ) that in all their joynt-services , being equall in authority , and both commanding in chiefe , we never heare of any question , controversie , or debate , of any grudging or heart-burning betweene them , but find them ever agree and concurre , without any dissention or variance , with one heart and minde ( as if they had beene one man ) in all businesse whatsover . Their first association ( after the Kings returne out of Ireland ) was when they went and burnt Northallerton and Burrowbrigs , and spoyled Rippon , where they spared the Church , onely they caused those that fled thither to pay 5000. marks sterling to be free . They burnt also Scarborough towne , and hearing that the people had fled into the woods with their goods and cattell , they went and searched them out , and brought away a great bootie . Then returning home by Skipton in Craven , they spoyled the Towne , and after burnt it without resistance . This was in the yeare 1318. in May. The next was in the year following . 1319. when King Edward having gathered an army lay before Berwick . These two entred England as farre as Milton , which is within 12. miles of York , where the Archbishop of Yorke , and the Bishop of Ely Chancellour , made head against them ; in which conflict there were foure thousand English slain , amongst whom was the Major of Yorke , and a thousand drowned in the water of Swail , and if the night had not come in too soon , the battell being joyned in the afternoon , few or none of them had escaped as it is thought . It is called the battell of Milton or Swail , or the white battell , because there were a number of Priests slain at it , belike they have been apparelled in their surplices . Hollinshed in his Chronicle of England , relateth the manner how it was done : He sayes that as the English men passed over the water of Swale , the Scots set fire upon certain stacks of hay , the smoke whereof was so huge , that the English might not see where the Scots lay . And when the English were once gotten over the water , the Scots came upon them with a wing in good order of battell in fashion like to a shield , eagerly assailing their enemies who were easily beaten down , and discomfited . Many were drowned by reason that the Scots had gotten betwixt the English and the bridge , so that the English fled betwixt that wing of the Scots , and the main battell , which had compassed about the English on the one side , as the wing did upon the other . The King of England informed of this overthrow , brake up his siege incontinently , and returned to Yorke , and the Scots home into their Countrey of Scotland . Their third expedition was that same yeare at Hallowtide , when the Northern borders of England had gotten in their cornes , and their barns were well stuffed with grain , which was their provision for the whole yeare . They entred England and burnt Gilsland , tooke divers prisoners , and drave away all the cattell they could finde . Then they went to Brough under Stanmoore , and returned by Westmooreland , and Cumberland , with great booty and spoil , none offering to make head against them . The fourth was in the yeare 1322. when the King of England grieved with these invasions , having complained to the Pope , had purchased a Legate to be sent into Scotland , to admonish King Robert to desist from further disquieting the Realme of England , and because he would not obey , he with Sir James Douglas , and Thomas Randulph , were accursed by the two Cardinalls , the Archbishop of Canterbury , and York , and all the Priests in England , every day thrice at Masse . These two , Sir James Douglas and Randulph ( some say the King himself ) following the Legate at the heels ( as it were ) entred England , little regarding their cursings , and wasted the Countrey to the Redcrosse , and coming to Darlington at the feast of Epiphanie , stayed there a while for gathering of booty , and destroying the Countrey : The Lord Douglas on the one hand , and the Lord Stuart of Scotland on the other ; the one going towards Hartelpool and Caveland , and the other towards Richmond . The inhabitants of Richmond-shire , having no Captains to defend them , gave a great summe of money ( as at other times they had done ) to have their Countrey saved from fire and spoil . These adventurers stayed 15. dayes in England , and returned without battell . It is said that the Knights of the North came to the Duke of Lancaster , then lying at Pomphret , and offered to go into the field with him against the Scots , but he refused ; whether by reason of the discord between him and K. Edward , or for some other occasion I know not . At this time it is , that the King gives to Sir James Douglas a bounding Charter of Douglasdale , dated apud Bervicum super Tuedam anno Regni nostri decimo quinto , which is either the yeare 1320. or 1322. the first of April . It bears Jacobo de Douglas , filio & haeredi Gulielmi Douglas , militis , which decides the question of his age , and his brother Hughes , who outlived Sir James 12. or 13. years , and calls himself his heire , as shall be showne . It hath also this clause , Volumus insuper , &c. wee will also , and grant for us and our heires , that the said James and his heires shall have the said lands free , ab omnibus prisiis , & petitionibus quibuscunque ita quod nullus ministrorum nostrorum in aliquo se intromittat infra dictas divisas ; nisi tantum de articulis specialiter ad coronam nostram pertinentibus . To return , King Edward conceived such discontent , and was so grieved at this so wasting of his Kingdome , that he gave order to levie an army of 100000. to enter Scotland at Lammas : whereof K. Robert being advertised , entred England neare to Carlile ; and burnt some towns which belonged to King Edwards own inheritance , spoyled the Monastery of Holme , where his fathers corps were interred . Hither the Earle of Murray , and Sir James Douglas came to him with another army , whereupon marching further Southward , they came to Preston in Andernesse , and burnt all that towne also , except the Colledge of the Minorites . This was fourescore miles within England from the Borders of Scotland . Then they returned with their prisoners and booty to Carlile , where they stayed some fourteen dayes , wasting and destroying all about with fire and sword , and so they returned into Scotland on Saint James day , having remained within England three weeks , and three dayes , without any opposition or resistance . They were not long at home when K. Edward entred into Scotland with his army , and passed to Edinburgh , but for want of victualls ( which were conveyed out of the way of purpose by King Roberts command and direction ) he was forced to make a retreat , and goe home the way he came , having discharged his choller with what he could meet with in his return . But hee was quickly followed by the two Colleagues , Sir James and Randulph , who entred England , burnt North Allerton , with other townes and villages as farre as Yorke ; and overtaking the King at the Abbey of Biland , gave him battell , and defeated him . There was taken John Britton Earle of Richmond , who had also the Earledome of Lancaster : he being ransomed for a great summe of money , passed over into France , where he remained , and never came back again into England . The English Chronicle to excuse this defeat , layes the blame hereof upon Andrew Barkeley Earle of Carlile , whom ( they say ) Sir James Douglas corrupted with money , upon which pretext Barkeley was executed , suffering ( good Gentleman ) to cover other mens faults . It doth me good to heare Master John Major answer the English Writers in his round and substantiall manner : It is but a dream ( saith he ) and spoken without all likelihood , for neither were the Scots ever so flush and well stored with moneyes as to corrupt the English , neither was that the custome of good Sir James Douglas , a valiant Warriour , who did what he did , not with gold but with another mettell , sharpe steele . The Earle of Carlile also died without confessing any such thing . Some write that King Robert was there in person , but it is more likely that he was not , but sent these two , of whom we have spoken : however , if he were there , these two were with him . At this battell Sir James tooke three French Knights , Robert Bartrame , William Bartarhome , Elye Anyallage , with their vallats ; for whose relief the K. of France requested K. Robert , and hee willing to pleasure him , transacted with Sir James to give him for their ransome foure thousand markes starling , for payment of a part of which summe , the K. giveth to him the next yeare appearently . ) Indictamenta Latrociniorum , & Ministrationem corundem in omnibus , infra omnes terras suas subscriptas : Scilicet infra . 1. Baroniam de Douglas . 2. Forrestiam nostram de Selkirk , de qua est officiarius noster . 3. Constabularium de Lauderio . 4. Forrestiam de Jedworth cum Benjedworth . 5. Baroniam de Batherewle . 6. Boroniam de Wester-Calder . 7. Baroniam de Stabilgorthane . 8. Raroniam de Romanok . Then in generall , Et infra suas terras quascunque , infra regnum nostrum , cum pertinentibus , quas de nobis tenet in capite . Then followes the Privelledge . Etsi aliqui de hominibus suis , infra praedictas terras , fucrint judicati per Justitiarium nostrum ; volumus quod dictus Jacobus , & haeredes sui , & eorum ministri habeant Liberationem , & liberam eorundem ministrationem , salvis nobis , & haeredibus nostris omnibus aliis particulis ad homicidium & coronam nostram pertinentibus . Tenenda , & habenda praedicta indictamenta , cum administratione corundem , & cum omnibus libertatibus commoditatibus ad praedicta indictamenta , & administrationem eorundem pertinentibus , praefata Jacobo , & haeredibus suis in feuda & haereditate in perpetuum de nobis & haeredibus nostris . Volumus insuper & concedimus pro nobis & haeredibus nostris , quod praefatus Jacobus & haeredes sui , & eorum homines infra praedictas terras manentes Libri sint institu●…m , de sectis curiae , de omnibus terris supradictis , & de Wardis castrorum , nec non de omnibus presis , talliagiis curiagiis & captionibus quibuscunque ad opus nostrum , & haeredum nostrorum , salvo tantum communi auxilio pro defensione regni nostri contingente . Et ut praesens charta robur firmitatis obtineat in perpetuum , manum ejusdem Jacobi , annulo , cum quodam lapid●… qui dicitur ( Emeraudus ) eidem Jacobo , & haeredibus suis nomine Sasinae in memoriale permansuro in futurum ex manu nostra personaliter invectimus . Apud Bervicum super Twedam octava die mensis Novembris anno regni nostri nono decimo , anno Domini . 1325. Then there is a precept directed to Bernard Abbot of Arbrothock , Chancellour , to cause make a Charter thereof under the broad seal , and deliver it to the said James . This I thought good to set down in the owne words , because of the singularity , in that it is the promise of a King fulfilled to his subject , not for any proper debt , or money disburst , but for the ransome of prisoners . 2 It is singular also in respect of the thing given , Inditements , Immunities , Liberties and Priviledges . 3. The forme and manner of it is not ordinary , to hold in feudo , and inheritance without any duty , or reddendo , as they speake . 4 And last of all , the manner of infestment and seasing ; not by earth and stone , but by putting a ring on his finger with the Kings owne hand , and thereby infefting both himself and his heires ( as it should seem ) in this one action without reiterating . All which things how our Lawyers will allow of considering their formalities ; and what their opinion will be of the validitie hereof , I know not ; but we finde here plaine and square dealing , and honourable meaning : whatsoever the subtilties and quirks of Law be , we see an upright and loving Prince , a liberall and bountifull King , willing to honour a princely loyall subject . This and the former Charter given foure yeares before , and such others as may be thought to have beene given after , to corroborate or increase ( perhaps ) these freedomes and priviledges , is it whereunto Archbald the fourth and his successors have leaned and trusted to , in contemning Crighton and Levingston , at what time they told them they would preserve their owne rights and priviledges , and not suffer them to be infringed . And this also hath beene the ground upon which the Bailies of William the eighth Earle , he being himselfe in Italie , would not suffer the Kings Officers to meddle with these priviledged things in his bounds , which men that know not their immunities particularly account treason and rebellion : and so their enemies did terme it , to incense the King against them . This battell at Biland was the last piece of service that Sir James did to Edward Carnarvan , who having found fortune so froward to him in chance of warre against the Scots , was thereby taught to doubt the triall thereof any further , and therefore he sued for peace , which was concluded at Newcastle to last for certaine yeares . In this time of peace , although all occasion of Warlike action was cut off , yet Sir James was not idle , but did good offices for his King and Countrey . K. Robert did esteeme so well of him , and had so good opinion of his prudencie and fidelitie , and did so confide in his love , that he entrusted and employed him in the greatest businesse that ever he could have to doe , which concerned no lesse than the settling of his Crowne , and his title to the kingdome , which Sir James performed dexterously and happily . For being sent into France to John Balliol of Hercourte to procure his resigning all title and right to the Crowne in King Roberts favour , he sailed into Normandie , and having declared his Commission , and delivered his message , he found Balliol very tractable , contrary to all mens expectation ; for he plainly and ingeniously confessed that he had been deservedly rejected and debouted , being no wise usefull nor profitable for the good of Scotland . He said like wise that it was Gods especiall and favourable providence , that had advanced K. Robert thereunto , and therefore he did not repine nor grudge , to see the Kingdome in the hands of his Cousin , by whose high vertue , singular felicity , and great travell , it was restored to the ancient liberty , splendour , and magnificence , but rather rejoyced thereat . And chiefly for that they by whom he was deceived , did not injoy the hoped fruits of their fraud . And calling together his friends and kinsmen in presence of them all , hee did freely resigne unto Robert , and to his heires , all right and title , that he , or any from , or by him , had or might have to the Crown of Scotland , renouncing all interest and claim whatsoever that could be alledged or pretended for any cause , or consideration , from the beginning of the world unto that present day . This being done , Sir James returned into Scotland . This King Robert thought fit to be done , not because his owne title was not good enough before , for it was good already and sufficient , and so found to bee by a better judge then King Edward of England , to wit , the Estates of the Realme , who are the rightest judges in controversies of this nature , and who had power to have made it good , if it had not been so , & might have helped any defect that had been in it , seeing Balliol by his owne fact had disabled himself , by giving it over to King Edward , especially seeing it was prejudiciall , and against the common liberty , and good of the Kingdome , to accept of him who had betrayed these , and was not able to defend them . Wherefore King Robert being in possession , and the Kingdome being confirmed to him , and to his posteritie , he needed no further right from Balliol : Notwithstanding of this , to cut away all pretences of quarrells and calumnies , that malicious men might surmise thereabout afterwards , he thought good to have a renunciation from Balliol of his title , and consolidate that with his owne : whereupon esteeming none fitter for the purpose then Sir James , as well for the honourable place he held , as for his sufficiency to discharge the Commission , not without some consideration of his kindred with Balliol , by the house of Galloway : he laid the charge upon him , which he performed as we have heard . Sir James being thus returned out of France , King Robert being very glad that his businesse had succeeded so well , called a Parliament at Cambuskenneth , in the which the right of succession to the Crowne was renewed to King Roberts heirs , and namely ( failing his sonne David ) to Marjorie Bruce his daughter , and Robert Stuart his sonne . This the Nobility did enact , and confirme by oath in the yeare ( 1325. or 1326. ) and before the sending of Sir James Douglas , as some Authours record . Not long after King Robert fell sick , and partly for that cause , partly in regard of his age , not being able to ride abroad and endure travel himself , he committed the managing of all businesse of weight both in peace and warre to the two Friends and Colleagues , Sir James and Randulph , two of the most noble Knights , and bravest Captains that were in their dayes , as our Writers do say . And now Edward the second was dead , and Edward the third had succeeded to him , to whom Sir James laboureth to do as good service , as he had done to his father . This Edward sent Ambassadours to King Robert to treat of peace , but being discovered to have no sincere meaning , and to deal fraudfully , in stead of peace they carried home warre . So due preparation being made on both sides , our two Commanders assembled to the number of 20000. all horse men : ( some say 20000. horse , and 5000. foot ) and entred into England with resolution not to sight but at their advantage and pleasure , which was the reason they took all or most part horse men , and few or no foote men . Against these King Edward came in person with a great Army of 100000. men , ( as Froysard writes ) 80000. horse , 24000. archers , having brought with him the Lord Beaumont out of the Low-Countries with 700. or 500 horse . The English souldiers of this Army were cloathed in coats , and hoods , embroydered with flowers and branches , and did use to nourish their beards ; wherefore the Scots in derision thereof , made this rime , and fastned it upon the Church doore of Saint Peter in the Canongate , beards hartlesse , painted hoods witlesse , gay coat gracelesse , make England thriftlesse . He fortified the Townes of Carlile and Berwick , and furnished them with men to stay the Scots passages . But they little regarding either his fortifications , or his forces , passed the water of Tine at knowne Foords , and made him first know of their arrivall by smoake and fire : whereupon putting his men in order , he marched directly towards those places that were smoaking , to have given them battell ; but not finding them there , and not knowing how to force them to fight , his resolution was to passe Tine , and there to entercept them at their returne , and to give them battell in those fields where the ground was more levell and even , and so fitter for his Armie . Thither then he goeth with great trouble and turmoiling both of men and horse , by reason of the great raine that fell , as also for scarcitie of victuall ; and after he had lien there eight dayes waiting for them , he could heare no newes of them : wherefore he chose out about sixteene able young men , whom he sent abroad into the Countrey to search for them , promising a great reward to him that should first bring him word where they were . They having roaved up and downe the Countrey , at last one of them fell into the hands of the Scots , who when he had told how K. Edward had sent him to search for them , they let him goe , and withall bid him tell the King , that they had beene eight dayes as uncertain of him , as he had bin of them , and that now they were come within 3. miles of him , where they would stay for him , and abide him battell , being as desirous to sight as he was . When the young man told the King this , he was rewarded with Knigthood , being made such by his owne hand ; and besides that he got 150. pound land to maintain his dignity . Then he gave order that his Army should march towards them ; but when they came neare , they found them so stronlgy encamped upon a hill , having steepe rocks at the one side , and a river on the other , called by Hollinshed the water of Weire , that they durst not adventure to assaile them at so great disadvantage : wherefore they sent a trumpet to them , and desired them to come downe to the plaine ground , and so to sight with true vertue , for honour and empire , and not to sit on the tops of the hils , where no body could come at them . The Scots answered with derision , that they would not sight how and when it pleased their enemie , but at their owne pleasure ; telling him withall , that they were come into his Countrey , and had done as he knew , if any thing that they had done did grieve him , he might come and seeke his revenge : they would stay there as long as they thought meet and expedient for them , and if any should assaile them , they would do what they could doe to defend themselves , and make their enemies smart . So they stayed there three dayes in his view , but he not thinking it safe to assaile them in that place , after some few skirmishes at their watering place , the Scots removed their Camp to another place that was stronger and harder of accesse , which Hollinshed calls Stanhop parke , whither the English also followed them . While they lay there encamped the one over against the other , Sir James Douglas ( who was a provident and watchfull Captaine ) perceiving that the English watches were somewhat negligently kept ( either because they despised the small number of the Scots , or for that they thought they had no mind to fight , but to retire ) adventured upon a hazzardous but hardie and worthy enterprise : he did choose out two hundred of the choicest of his men , and passing the river in the night season , a little off from the English Camp , he entred the enemies Trenches on that side they least expected , and approached the Kings Tent , thinking either to have taken or to have slaine him ; but the Kings Chaplaine being a wake , discovered him , whom he slew with his owne hand for his paines : and now the alarme was given , and the whole Armie was up against him : wherefore having only cut the Kings Tentroapes , he returned safe in spite of them , leaving 300. of them slaine in the place , who offered to hinder his retreat . Upon this show and omen of successe and good fortune , Thomas Randulph would have given them battell in the plaine fields , but Sir James advised him otherwayes , showing him how it was not for them , being so few in number , to deale with so great an Armie in the open and plaine fields , but that their onely way was to use slights and stratagems , and to keepe themselves in places of strength and advantage . To which purpose he told him the Apologue of the Fox , whom a Fisherman finding in his Lodge carrying away a Salmond to his denne for his young Cubs , he drew his sword , and stood in the doore to kill him , knowing he had no other way to get out . The Fox being thus straitned , went and tooke hold of the Fishers mantle ( which lay by ) and went toward the fire to cast it into it and burne it : the Fisher to save his mantle , ranne to the fire , and left the doore free , so that the Fox escaped out at the door , and in his way catched hold of the Salmond , and went cleare away withall , to the fishers great griefe , who had his mantle burnt , his Salmond lost , and the Fox escaped . Even so , sayes Sir James , it fares with us ; we have done these men harme , and they think they have us in the nouse , and in a mouse-trap , but I have espied a way , by which , though it may seeme somewhat hard and troublesome , we shall escape safe without the losse of a man. They continued still in the same place certaine dayes after this , without doing any thing of note or moment on either side ; for the English warned by their late danger , kept better watch then they had done before : and now having taken a Scottish prisoner , they were informed by him , that the host of the Scots was commanded to be in readinesse against the third watch to follow Sir James his standard . This put them to no small businesse , so that they presently armed , and stood all night ranked in order of battell , supposing that the Scots intended to make an onset , and assaile them in their Trenches , and therefore their Watches and Sentinels were doubled , and the Foords strongly guarded . But the Scots by this time were risen and departed , passing through a Mosse or Bogue two miles long , which was never passed before , especially by horsemen : but they had provided flaikes and hurdles , upon which they made the horse to passe without sinking , leading them in their hands , and walking on foot by them . About the breake of day two Scottish Trumpeters were brought to K. Edward , who were taken by his Scouts , and being come before him , told that they were commanded to suffer themselves to be taken thus , that they might tell him that the Scots were gone home , and that if he had a minde to be revenged on them for any thing they had done , he should follow them . But he considering of the matter , and weighing all things , and with what men he had to doe , being both valiant , and able to endure so much hardship , thought it his best to let them goe , and so he returned to London , having seene his Kingdome burnt and spoiled under his nose , for all his great Armie , and himselfe in the midst thereof in danger of his life , or of taking : which effronts he was forced to pack up at this time , not without great griefe and anger without all doubt . And this is the third piece of service done by that so despised man to the posterity of his despiser ; to his sonne before , and now to his grand-childe in the yeare 1327. or 28. neare unto Stanhop park ; which because it cannot be denied , Caxton alledgeth that it came to passe by the treason of Mortimer Earle of March , who being corrupted by the Scots with money , would not suffer ( saith he ) the Earle of Lancaster to passe the water , not very deep at that part to invade them , by which means they escaped . But our Major doth justly scorn that point of corrupting and bribing with money , and doth further affirme , that they had not any conference at all with Mortimer . So that it is likely , that what Mortimer spake in that matter of not following , or invading the Scots at their departure , he hath spoken it out of judgement , and not partiality ; and perhaps more prudently , then they that counselled the contrary . However they confesse that the King missed of his purpose , and being very pensive therefore , broke up his army and returned to London . Amongst other things , they tell that after the Scots were dislodged , some of the English went to view their Camp , partly to see their customes and manner of living , and what provision they had , partly to seek some spoil ; when they were come there , they found onely five hundreth carcasses of red and fallow Deare , a thousand paire of Highland showes called rullions , made of raw and untand leather , three hundreth hides of beasts set on stakes , which served for Caldrons to seethe their meat . There were also five English men who had their legs broken , and were bound naked to trees , whom they loosed and gave them to Chirurgions to bee cured . When they saw these things , and judged hereby how painfull and able to endure the Scottishmen were , they found that counsell to have been good and sound , which was given to their King not to follow them , whether it were Mortimers or some others . The English Writers upon this scarcitie and penury here found , and upon such other passages ( as when Edward the second entred Scotland , and was forced to returne for want of victualls , the King having caused remove all things out of his way ) take occasion to speake contemptuously of the Scots , as though they had not defended their Countrey by vertue and prowesse against England ( between it and which they think there is no comparison ) but partly by cold and hunger , partly because the English Kings did slight it , and were not desirous to conquer it : as also for the English forces were almost imployed in France , so that they had no leisure to bend their whole power against Scotland , which if they had done , they might easily ( as they think ) have mastered it . Imputing hereby the cause of their failing to do it , they having so great ods in number of men and warlike appointment , to want of will , and their hinderance by France , and the poverty of our Countrey , together with the roughnesse thereof ( being so Mountainous , and full of heaths and wasts , harder enemies then the inhabitants ) giving no place to the vertue and valour of the people , very absurdly and maliciously : for as touching the first , that they have had no desire of it , it is a childish alledgeance , when they see they cannot get a thing , to deny that they desire it . The great means they have used , the many attempts they have made , and that common and proverbiall speech so ordinary in their owne mouthes , and devised amongst themselves , ( Qui la France veut gagner , a l' Escosse faut commencer ) do testifie the contrary . And above all , their often intending a full conquest of it , as their owne Histories beare record . And as for the hinderance by France , their aides to Scotland have not been very great , nor very frequent ; yea , it may bee said justly , that France hath received more help then ever it gave : for since the league with Charlemaigne , it may be truely said without any poeticall hyperbole , nulla unquam Francis fulsit victoria castris , sine milite Scoto ; that the French armies never wanted Scottish souldiers , but the Scots have but very seldome had Frenchmen to helpe them . And if the Kings of England have sometimes bended their forces towards France , yet they did it not alwayes , but have made more warre in Scotland , when they had peace with France . And it is amongst the complaints of our Nation , that France have cast them into warres with England , when they might have had peace : Like as when they had advantage by warre , France did often wring their weapons out of their hands , and forced them to a disadvantagious peace , which was commonly the greatest fruits of their friendship and league . Now as for the difficulties of hills , hunger , &c. These are not so great as they talke of ; for neither is it altogether so poore , nor so hilly , and mountanous , as they would have it beleeved to bee ; and if King Robert at this time or any other at any time have caused spoil and waste in the Countrey at some times , thereby to famish or straiten the enemy , or have chosen to vexe or trouble them with a Camp volante to eschew the hazzard of a battell ( as Douglas and Randulph did at this time ) it hath been the practice of all warriours of all Nations : but neither hath it been , neither could it have been , the onely mean of conserving this Countrey in freedome , except manhood and valour had been joyned with it , and that in a great measure ; whereof sufferance and hardnesse to endure great straits , want , scant , cold , hunger , and travell is no little part . As on the contrary , not to be able to endure these , is effeminatenesse , the ordinary consequent of riches , wealth , ease , abundance and delicacie , all reprochfull to men . Even as the other ( I confesse ) are oft the consequences of povertie , and are helps to harden the bodies , and whet the courages of men . Wherefore if they had meant nothing else , but that the poverty of Scotland did preserve the liberty thereof , because it kept the inhabitants in continuall exercise both of body and minde , and did not suffer them to grow tender , delicate and effeminate , but hardned their bodies against want , and their minds and courages against perills and dangers , which they imployed for the defence of their Countrey , and by the which ( as the chief means under God ) they did defend it , we could well admit of it , and acknowledge as much poverty , ( that is to say , want of superfluity ) and vanity , invented by soft and womenly minds , and covered under the maske of civility , as hath begotten in them valour and temperance , as it is said to have done in many people before ; the Romanes , Macedonians , Turks , Parthians , Scythians , &c. But since that is not their meaning , but even to detract from their valour , they exprobrate their poverty , and casts it up for a reproach , to breed contempt of them in others , and to ascribe to it what is due to their worth ; to wit , the liberty , and preservation of their Countrey from all forrain enemies : we may say justly that it hath not been the immediate cause of their being preserved against England , Danes , or whatsoever enemy ; but that there hath been as much sufficiency of things necessary ( call it riches , or by what other name you list ) as hath moved other Nations ( especially England ) to cover it , and coveting to invade it , and when they had done their best , they were driven from it ; not so much by the barrennesse and roughnesse of the soyle , as by many and sad stroakes of the inhabitants thereof ; and by such acts and deeds , as became wise , valiant and couragious men . Touching all which , this one example will serve to confute whatsoever hath been , or can bee said in this kind , then which we need no other proof , and that is this same huge and great army raised by this King ( Edward the third ) and intending to have come into Scotland , if hee had not been thus affronted by Sir James and Randulph : and before in his fathers time at Biland , ( and which admitteth for no exception ) at Bannockburne . In all which there is no colour of want of will ; he showed it , he professed it , and presumed to devoure them in an instant : No want of forces , having gat●…ered from all Countreyes not onely his subjects , but his friends also : no scarcitie of victuall , hee had abundance of all things : no hills nor mountains , they met in the plain fields : no forrain aid on the Scots side that we heare of , besides the two Brabanders , that King Edward sent to help them . And so again whatsoever progresse , or appearance of conquest the English have made of Scotland , it was never by their valour and armes , but by the advantage of an intestine warre , they siding with the one party , and at last overcoming both , as did Edward the first , in the dayes of Balliol ; wherefore they make a wrong account , and much mistake the matter , that thinke the liberty of this Kingdome hath been maintained more by the wants of our soyle , want of will in our enemies , or of leasure in the English , then by the worth of our predecessours , if wee weigh things rightly . But the true way , and mean , by which our Countrey and liberty thereof have stood ; and by which they have relieved and vindicated it , when it was thralled , are these we have spoken of ; by which also they procured peace at all times , and now also at this time . For the same yeare , in March Ambassadours came from Edward to treat of perpetuall peace , which the next yeare was concluded by the Parliament of England held at Northhampton : unto this Parliament for treating of Articles of peace , King Robert sent Sir James , with some Prelates , where it was concluded on these conditions : That the King of England should renounce all title and claime that he and his predecessours had laid to the Crowne of Scotland , and deliver unto them whatsoever Bonds , Contracts , Writs or Evidents , they had for their pretended Title thereto . And should leave that Kingdome as free as it had been in the dayes , and at the death of King Alexander the third , from all bondage and servitude for time to come . That the Scots should also resigne to the English , all lands and possessions , which sometimes they had in England , or held of England in fealty , as beneficiars thereof , and that the Marches between the two Kingdomes should bee Cumberland and Northumberland , unto Stone-moore : That David sonne to King Robert should marry Jane , King Edwards sister , called by some Jane of the Tower , and by the Scots , Jane make peace , ( in derision ) and that King Robert should pay to Edward three thousand marks sterling , for the dammage done to his people in the late warres , by Sir James and Randulph , Earle of Murray . The first of these articles was presently performed , and the King of England delivered all the Writs and Evidents which hee had concerning his alledged superiority of Scotland , and amongst them an Indenture which they called Ragman ( saith Hollinshed ) and certain Jewels won from the Kings of Scotland , amongst which the blacke Crosiere or Rood was one . This peace the same Authour calleth unprofitable , and dishonourable , done by evil and naughty counsell . If it were dishonourable for England , it was so much the more honourable for the Scots that gave the peace . But the dishonour hee meaneth is the renunciation of his title to the Crowne of Scotland , whereof he had fair claiming . King Robert and the Scots had driven him out of his usurpation , and vindicated their liberty by force of armes . And as for his right and title in Law , the world knowes what small account Scotland ever made of his pretensions ; having never been subject unto any but to their owne King. Wherefore it was onely to take away all occasion of cavilling , and the better to keep peace with their neighbours , that they desired this surrender , as they had done before with Balliol , whose right notwithstanding carried a greater show of equity and reason , and truly it is not so much to be wondered at , that King Edward condescended to these Articles ; as it is that King Robert should have yeelded to them , being more unprofitable for him , then for the other : and a man would think it very strange that he should part with Northumberland , or give any moneys to recompense any dammage done in a just warre : and that there should not rather money have been given unto him , as a dowrie or portion with his daughter in law . But the time answereth it , hee was now of a good age , and unmeet for travel , and warres , being wearied with battells , and cloyed with victories , and ceased by sicknesse , he longed for peace to himself , and to his posteritie , but with what fidelity , and how little it was kept by King Edward , we shall heare hereafter . No aliance , nor bond of amity ( which ought but seldome doth tie Princes and great men ) could keep him from breaking of this peace . The marriage was solemnized at Berwick , with all the pompe that might bee , after which King Robert lived not a full yeare . A little before his death being at Cardrois , which stands over against Dumbarton on the other side of the water of Levin : whether hee had withdrawne himselfe by reason of his age and sicknesse , to live a private , and quiet life ; hee called his friends together , and made his last Will and Testament , in which having ordered all his other affaires , hee called to minde a vow that he had made to go into Syria , and there to fight against the common enemy of the Christian name : but because his warres before , and now his age and sicknesse would not suffer him to performe it in his owne person , hee recommended the performing of it to Sir James Douglas , requesting him earnestly to go and do it for him ; and withall , to carry his heart to Hierusalem , and there to bury it neare the holy Grave . This was esteemed a great honour in those dayes , both by Sir James himself and others , and withall a cleare and honourable testimony of the Kings affection towards him ; and so he interpreted it . Wherefore King Robert dying the 7. of July 1329. hee made himself ready , and prepared all things for his voyage very diligently ; yet there were some of the most judicious in those times , who tooke it to have a deeper reach ; and that ( however he did also respect Sir James , and thinke him the fittest for this businesse : ) his main designe was to prevent all dissention , which might have risen between these two great Captains , Douglas and Murray , Randulph to obviate the which , they thinke he devised to send Sir James out of the Countrey upon this honourable pretext . But there bee Authours that say , the King did not particularly designe Sir James by name , but desired his Nobles to choose one of his most noble Captains in the Realme for that effect , and that they after his decease laid it upon Sir James with one consent , who most willingly accepted thereof , as one ( who during King Roberts life ) had served the body wherein the heart had lodged . But whether the King desired him by name , or the Nobility did interpret the Kings meaning to be such ( under the title and description of the most noble Captain ) or that they themselves did deem him to be so ( as indeed he was most worthy ) so it was , that the charge was committed unto him , and he most gladly undertook it , when his presence was very needfull for the Countrey . For before he tooke journey , their fell out a matter that occasioned great troubles afterwards by Edward Balliol . One Lawrence Twine an English man borne , and one of those who had obtained lands in Scotland for reward of his service in the warres , a man well borne , but of a vitious life . This man after King Roberts death presuming of inpunite in respect of K. Davids youth , loosed the reignes to his licentious lewdnesse ; and being often taken in adultery , and admonished by the officiall of Glasgow when he would not abstain from his wickednesse , he was excommunicated ; wherewith being incensed , he tooke the officiall as he was riding to the towne of Aire , and kept him prisoner till hee was forced to redeeme his liberty with a summe of money . Sir James Douglas highly offended with this enormity , caused seek him , that he might be punished ; which Twine understanding , and fearing that he should not long escape his hands if he stayed within the Countrey , sled into France , and addressing himself unto Edward Balliol , he perswaded him to enterprise against the King of Scotland , and recover that which he had so good right to , and so faire an opportunity , which Balliol did in Sir James his absence , by his voyage , or after his slaughter in his voyage . And no question his absence was a strong inducement both to this Edward , and to Edward of England , to attempt the subduing of Scotland ; which he did thinke would prove easie , by making Randulph away ( which he sought to have done by poyson ) Sir James being absent . So that either the Kings devotion ( if it were indeed devotion or his pollicy , ( if it were but pollicie ) in sending of him out of the Countrey , is greatly condemned by our Writers . And to speake the truth it deserves to be condemned , having by so doing sent away so fit and usefull a man , denuding the Countrey of such a Captain in so doubtfull times ; whereas a Prelate or some other Churchman had been fitter for that imployment . And hee ought to have considered that England would be still aiming at the Crown of Scotland , notwithstanding of the late alliance : neither needed he to feare any emulation between Randulph and Sir James , there being such intire love in Sir James towards Randulph , that howsoever he contended with him in vertue , yet his contention was but in vertue , and ever within the bounds of modestie , love , and friendship , behaving himself to him as to his Comrade and Brother in armes , whereof hee had ever given in all the joynt services so evident proofe , especially at Bannockburne , where his love drew him out to have succoured him if there had been need , and the same love and candor ( so to call it ) or courtesie and modesty joyned with true magnanimitie , stayed him from going forward , that he might not arrogate to himself one share or parcell of that victory , whereby the others glory had been eclipsed . And when hee had gotten the victory , hee accompanied him joyfully unto the Camp , no lesse glad then if he had been victorious himself , farre from any hatefull or envious emulation : so that there was small reason to looke for any harme from such a disposition , or any inconvenience from such emulation , but rather to have expected much good from that his so well knowne affection and constancie both towards Randulph , and his native Countrey : however , hee out of his own worthie and good nature taking all in good part , hee passed on with his journey , taking with him two hundred Gentlemen of note , and ( as it is reported ) seaven hundred others . Amongst the Gentlemen of good qualitie , there was Sir William Sinclaire of Rosline , Sir Robert Logane of Rastaslrig , and Sir William Keith . De Froysard ( in his 20. Chapter ) reporteth that after his imbarking in Scotland he arrived at the Sluce , and stayed there some 12 dayes , where he kept such state and port , as if he had been King of Scotland : That he had in company with him , a Knight Banneret , and 7 other Knights of Scotland , and was served by twenty sixe young Squires and Gentlemen of good sort , all his vessels being of gold or silver : That all that came to see him of all sorts of people were ( according to their ranks ) well and plentifully served with all manner of vivers , wines and spices , the best that could be had . He saith also that in his return from Jerusalem , he arrived at the port of Valence the great in Spain , where indeavouring to assist Alphonsus the king thereof , who warred against the King of Granado , then a Saracen , he was there inclosed by an ambush of the enemie , and so lost his life . He carried with him to Hierusalem the Kings heart embalmed and put into a box of gold , which he solemnely buried before the high Altar there : and this is the reason why the Douglas beare the crowned Heart in their coat of Armes ever since . When he had performed this service to his dead Master , he went with such company as he had brought with him , and joyned himself unto such other Christian Princes , as at that time were gathered with great power out of sundry parts of Christendome , to warre against the Infidels ; where he did so notable service , that by his frequent victories , he wan great honour to the Christian name . At last , having accomplished things in those parts with no lesse fame and glory , then Princely Magnificence , he embarked for Scotland , but was cast by storme of weather upon the Coast of Spain , and forced to go a shore on the borders of Granado , where at the same time hee found the King of Arragon fighting against the Saracens that inhabited these parts : Sir James offered to the King to serve him in those warres , and so fought against the enemy valiantly , and with great successe at divers times ; till at last having conceived too great contempt of the enemy , esteeming them no Warriours , he became somewhat too carelesse and secure , so that he was inclosed in an ambush , and slain , with all that were about him : his bones were embalmed and sent home to Scotland , and buried in the Church of Douglas , called Saint Brides Kirk . And thus he died in the yeare 1330. the 20. of August , the next yeare after King Roberts decease . As for his vertues , his actions have declared him sufficiently , yet these in speciall are to be observed : In his youth he was carefull to inable and fit himselfe for imployment , by the study and exercise of letters , and all good and commendable arts , whereby his mind contracting a good habit , was solidly fixed upon the vertues of modesty and sobernesse , and emptied of all envie ; which hardly and very seldome are joyned with these great vertues of courage and magnanimity in a Military spirit and life , which commonly do hinder another . In his riper years we may see his perfect practice of them against the enemy , and towards his friends : In action he was bold , resolute , couragious , strong , diligent , and advised ; and such every way as a stout Souldier or worthy Commander ought to be . Out of action , and in private converse , he was toward , affable , gentle , and courteous unto all : hee was loving to his Countrey , loyall , faithfull and obedient to his Soveraigne ; he contended in vertue with his equalls , free from envie and hatred against any , and through the course of his whole life , without stain or blemish that wee heare of . He is reckoned to have been in battells and incounters against the English fiftie seaven times , against the Saracens and other Infidels thirteene times ever victorious ; thrice as often as hee had been yeares in action , which were about twenty foure from King Roberts Coronation . 1306. untill the time of his death in 1330. which if it be so , wee may see how many things were omitted by our Writers , all that are set down being farre short of that number . Wherefore it is no marvell , if in such a continuall course of victories , some considence crept upon him ; and if accustomed to so hard enemies , and good warriours , as the English , and Scots that sided with them ( as commonly those are , who are born and bred in in the Northern parts of the world ) he disesteemed and slighted the Saracens and Southern softnesse , weaknesse and effeminacie in respect thereof , whereby he fell into this Ambush , which was his death . Now as in these respects it is somewat to be pardoned , so is this use to be made of it , that we despise no enemy however inferiour , and to eschew too much confidence and presumption in whatsoever advantage , which hath been the ruine and losse of many worthy men . He is said to have been of a black and swart complexion , and to have lisped somewhat in his speech . We heare nothing either in History , or Monument , or otherwise of his marriage : he had two base or naturall sonnes , William Lord of Liddesdale ( of whom we shall speake hereafter ) and one Archbald , whom the Lord of Liddesdale made Captain of the Castle of Edinburgh , when hee tooke it in . To conclude , let this bee observed , that Sir James is never mentioned by any either English or Scottish Writer whatsoever , but with honour and commendation , as worthy , valiant , noble , good , or some such Epithete ; and confessed to have beene one of the most valiant that lived in his dayes . Such is the force of vertue , and so prevalent is it , even with enemies . We will not omit here ( to shut up all ) the judgement of those times concerning him , in an old rude verse indeed , yet such as beareth witnesse of his true magnanimity , and invincible mind in either fortune , good or bad . Good Sir James Douglas ( who wise , and wight , and worthy was ) Was never overglad for no winning , nor yet over sad for no tineing , Good fortune and evil chance , he weighed both in one ballance . Jacobus Duglassius Brucii Regis socius omnium laborum in Hispania coesus a Saracenis , 1330. Quicquid sors potuit mortali in pectore ferre Vel facere , hoc didici perficere , atque pati . Prima ubi luctando vici , sors affuit ausis Omnibus , & quid non pro patria ausus eram ? Hosti terror ego : nullus me terruit hostis : Consiliis junxi robora dura meis . Proelia quot numerat , titulos , actosque triumphos Brucius , hinc totidem pene trophaea mihi . Quo jam signa feram ? major quaerendus & orbis Atque hostis ; famam non capit iste meam . Arma Saraceno objeci prope littora calpes Herculeae , hic tellus me male fausta tegit . Herculeae Graecis memoretur Gloria laudis , Fallor an Herculeis stant potiora mea . In English thus , What ever weight in furious Fortune laid On weak mans breast , I suffered undismaid , Nor lesse my active force ; and when I tri'd Her power in warre , propitious fate deny'd No help ; whiles my endeavours well did prove How much I dared for my Countreys love . A terrour to my foes ; I knew no feare , Wisedome and valour both united were In me . And looke what triumphs great Bruce gain'd , As many Trophies were by me obtain'd . What more remaineth to increase my name ? The world appears too little for my fame . To Spain my aid I gave , and did oppose The Saracen , there was the fatall close Of my brave life , wher't may be questioned much If Hercules his Monuments were such . Of Hugh the fourth and ninth Lord of Douglas . UNto this Sir James his brother germane Hugh Douglas did succeed , the ninth Lord , and fourth of that name . Of this man , whether it was by reason of the dulnesse of his minde , or infirmity of his body , or through whatsoever occasion else , wee have no mention at all in History of any of his actions , onely it is certain that he succeeded , and was Lord of Douglas , which he demitted ( in favour of his brother Archbald , slain at Halidoun hill ) to his sonne William , who was the first Earle of Douglas , as shall be showne in his life . The honour of the name and dignity of the house was upheld by his brother Archbald Lord of Galloway , of whom therefore we are now to speake . This Hugh lived after the death of his brother Archbald ( which was 1333. ) some nine or ten years , till the 1343. as the Charter of resignation of the Lordship to his nephew doth witnesse . He died without children , and was never married . Of Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway , Governour of Scotland , third brother to Sir James . BEfore we proceed to speak of the next Lord Douglas , the time , and order of the History requireth that we speake of Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway , and Governour of Scotland : he was third brother to good Sir James , as Boetius affirmeth in these words ; Archibaldus Duglasius Germanus Jacobi de Douglas , quem nuperrime in hispania interiisse scripsimus . This Archbald did outlive Sir James not above three yeares , as we shall show hereafter . Neither is the losse of the battell wherein he died , imputed to his youth , but to his haste and indignation . And in the battell of Annand , he shewed wisedome and advisednesse sufficiently . Touching his education , there is no mention thereof in History : he married Dornagilla daughter to Red John Cummin , whom King Robert slew at Dumfrees . This John Cummin was stiled Lord of Galloway , having married a daughter of Allane Lord of Galloway , called Mary , whose elder sister Dornagilla , John Balliol had married : and therefore he is also stiled Lord of Galloway . There was also a third of these daughters married ( as our Writers say ) to the Earle of Abermale : it seemeth the lands of Galloway ( Lord Allane dying without heires male ) have been divided among the three sisters : as for his third wee finde nothing else of her . This Archbald having married John Cummins daughter , the inheritrix of the lands of Galloway , was imployed in the warre against Edward Balliol , whom he defeated and chased to Roxburgh , whereupon for this service , and also by another title which hee claimed as nearest to the house of Galloway by his Grandmother , the Earle of Carricts sister , ( which right wee have deduced at large in the life of Lord William the third maker of the Indenture ) Balliol being forfaulted , hee obtains the lands of Galloway , as Evidents and Histories beare record , stiling him Archibald Lord of Galloway , which continued in his posterity untill the forfeiture of the Earles of Douglas . Some alledge that Red John Cummin did not marry the Lord of Gallowayes daughter Marie , but a daughter of John Balliol of Harcourt in Normandy , called Adama , whom he begot on his wife Dornagilla , who was daughter to Allane Lord of Galloway : but how came Red John to stile himself Lord of Galloway , seeing his wife was Adama Balliol , who had brothers , at least one , to wit , John Balliol that was Competitor with Bruce . However it was , Archbald Douglas having chased Edward Balliol , and Balliol being forfeited , was made Lord of Galloway . This Archibald had by his wife , Dornagilla Cummin , two sons , William , who succeeded to his Uncle Hugh in the Lordship of Douglas , and was created Earle of Douglas , and Archibald after Lord of Galloway : hee had also a daughter called Marjory married to Thomas Earle of Marre . We have heard in the life of good Sir James , how King Robert Bruce before his death had taken all pains for establishing the Kingdome to his posterity , and to leave it peaceablie unto them , and had done for that effect what the wit of man could devise : he had beaten out his enemies by armes , he had ratified and confirmed his right by the Lawes and Act of Parliament , he had obtained a renunciation of all title and claim he could pretend , from John Balliol his Competitor : he had gotten also the like renunciation of the King of England , and all Evidents , Writs , and Monuments concerning his pretences delivered up unto him , discharged and cancelled , and declared to be null , and of no value , by consent of the English Parliament , and ( to be the surer of King Edwards friendship ) he had married his sonne David to Jane his sister . He had cut off the rebellions that were springing up against him , by executing such as were guiltie , established Randulph Tutor and Protector to his sonne , and Governour of the Countrey , hee had removed all occasion of emulation , that might have falne out therein , and setled all with good advice , good precepts , good councell in his Testament , both for peace among themselves , and warre against the enemy . But what is the wit of man , and how weak a thing are his devices ! or what bonds will bind whom duety cannot binde ? This same Balliol , whose father had renounced his right ( nothing regarding what his father had done ) renewed his claim to the Crown . This same King of England , who had himself solemnly renounced , who had bound up friendship with the most sure and strongest bonds that can bee amongst men , regarding neither his resignation made , nor his affinity and alliance , nor any dutie towards God , or faith and promise to man , used all means to strip his brother-in-law ( by consequent his sister ) out of the Kingdome of Scotland ; as if nothing were unlawfull , that could fill up the bottomlesse gulf of his ambition . First , he caused an English Monke ( under colour of giving Physick for the gravell ) to poyson the Governor Thomas Randulph Earle of Murray ; and afterward aided Edward Balliol with 6000. English , upon condition that Balliol should hold the Crowne of him . Edward Balliol entering Scotland with these forces , and being assisted by the male-contents in Scotland , prevailed so , that having wonne a battell at Duplin ( 1332. the 22. of September , the third yeare after the death of King Robert , and about one yeare after the death of Randulph ) in which many were slain , to the number of 3000. together with Duncane or Donald Earle of Marre , the Governour ; hee was Crowned at Scone , and these of the Bruces side constrained to send their King ( David Bruce with his wife ) into France , having no safe place at home to keep him in . After his Coronation , having taken in divers places that stood out against him , he went at last to Annand , receiving such as would acknowledge him , and taking their oath of Allegeance and Fidelitie . Whereupon Andrew Murray Earle of Bothwell ( chosen Governour after Marres death ) sent Archbald Lord of Galloway to see what hee could do against Balliol in these quarters : he taking with him his nephew William Douglas Lord of Liddesdale , and John Randulph ( the Governour Randulphs sonne ) together with Simeon Fraser , having in company with them a thousand horse , went first to Mophet , and having there understood of Balliols carelesse discipline and securitie , departing from thence in the night , he came so suddenly to Annand where Balliol lay , that he escaped very narrowly , being halfe naked ( not having leasure to put on his cloathes ) and riding upon a barme horse unsadled , and unbridled , till he came to Carlile . Others write , that howbeit he came very quietly to have surprised the enemy at unawares in the night time , yet they had notice of his coming , and issued forth of the Towne with a great army , where they fought long , and stoutly , till at last Balliol was overthrowne , and fled . There were slain many of his friends , and amongst these , Henry Balliol ( who behaved himselfe very manfully ) John Mowbray , Walter Cummin , Richard Kirbie . Robert ( or Alexander ) Bruce Earle of Carrict , ( and sonne to Edward King of Ireland ) was taken prisoner , and obtained pardon by the intercession of his Cousin John Randulph . Hollinshed writeth , that somewhat before this time the friends of David Bruce understanding that Balliol did sojourne within the Towne of Perth , had besieged it , but that they were constrained to raise the siege , because of the men of Galloway , who having bin sometimes the Balliols dependers , invaded the besiegers lands under the conduct of Eustace Maxwell ; whereupon hee saith , Archbald Lord of Galloway , with the Earle of March and Murray , invaded Galloway with fire and sword , and brought away great booties , but slew not many men , because they got them out of the way , for feare of that terrible invasion . This narration may bee true in the last part thereof concerning their invasion , but the cause of this invasion is not probable : that the men of Galloway should invade mens lands that lay so farre from them , as they behoved to be , that did besiege Saint Johnston ; for in all liklihood it was besieged by these that were nearest to it , being in kinne , and friends to those that were slain in Duplin ; and both Hollinshed himself , and others , write that it was recovered in Balliols absence about the same time , while he sojourned in Annand , by those that lay neare to it , without mentioning any other siege before that at which it was taken . This battell at Annand so changed the case , that hee who even now was Crowned King ( in September ) who had farre prevailed , to whom all men ( even King Davids nearest friends and kinsmen ) had yeelded , ( despairing of his estate ) was by this act of Archbald Lord of Galloway turned quite out of his Kingdome and Countrey , and compelled to fly into England , to save his life , the 25. of December the same yeare , about three moneths after his Coronation , and was compelled to keep his Christmas at Carlile in the house of the Friers Minors . A notable example of the inconstancy of worldly affairs , and constancy of an honest heart in the Douglas , not abandoning his Princes cause , when others had forsaken it , and also a proof of his good service , and usefull ; for which as he deserved perpetuall praise and favour of his rightfull Prince , so did he incurre great hatred of his enemie , the usurping Balliol ; who the next day after ( the 26 of December ) going into Westmoreland , and there being honourably received by the Lord Clifford , gave unto him the whole lands of Douglasdale , which the said Lord Cliffords grandfather had before in the dayes of King Edward the first . So proudly did he presume , to give that which was not in his power : And so little had he learned the lesson of the uncertaintie of humane affairs , grounded on whatsoever power , appearance , or even successe : and so difficult a lesson it is to learne , where there remains means so great as hee trusted to , the power of the King , and Kingdome of England , with his owne particular friendship and faction within the Countrie of Scotland , which shall indeed have power to trouble the State a while , but not to establish either the Kingdome to himselfe , or any part of Douglasdale to the Lord Clifford . The next yeare , 1333. K. Edward of England having shaken off all colour of duty to his brother-in-law K. David , made open warre to be proclaimed betweene the two Countreyes , which turned on all hands to the disadvantage of Scotland , even upon both the Marches . For the Lord of Liddisdale was taken prisoner on the West hand , he having the charge of that quarter : and Murray the Governour on the middle March was taken likewise at the Castle of Roxburgh , by pursuing the victorie too farre on the bridge , and so excluded from his owne . King Edward took openly upon him the protection of Balliol , having caused him to sweare homage to him , and so with a great Army both of his owne subjects and forreiners , came in person and sate downe before Berwick , and besieged it , both by sea and land . Hereupon the Nobility of Scotland choose Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway to be Governour , and Generall of the Army , advising him to enter England , and to spoile it with fire and sword , so to force K. Edward to rise from before Berwick , and leave the siege . And this whilest he was about to have done , he is advertised from within the Towne , that Sir Alexander Seaton Governour thereof had made a paction with K. Edward to render the Towne , if he were not succoured by the Scots before the first of August next , and for performance thereof had given him his sonne and heire in pledge and hostage . Hereupon the Lord Governour changeth his purpose , fearing the losse of the Towne , and against the opinion of the wisest of his Armie , marcheth directly towards Berwick , and the third day after he set forth , he came within the sight both of his friends and foes . Before this King Edward ( besides Thomas Seaton , who was given him in pledge ) had taken also Alexander Seaton , another son of the Governour of Berwick ( whilest at a sally out of the Towne he followed upon the enemy too eagerly ) and had now both the brothers in his power , the one a pledge , the other a prisoner . He therefore seeing now that the Towne was like to be relieved , sent to the Captaine , certifying him plainly , that unlesse he did render the towne forthwith into his hands , both his sons should be hanged immediately upon a gibbet in sight of the Towne before his eyes . The Captaine returned him answer , that the dayes of Truce were not yet expired , and therefore desired him either to keep the covenant he had made , or else deliver the Hostages , and be at his advantage . When the King could not prevaile with him , nor breake him off his resolute constancie ( to which his vertuous and generous Lady did also notably encourage him ) he was as good as his word , and performed indeed what he had threatned , against the law of Nations , and against all humanitie , hanging them up almost in the very sight of their Parents , who bore it patiently and constantly for the good of their Countrey , and thought their childrens lives well bestowed in that regard : onely that they might not be beholders of so heavie a spectacle , they retired themselves to their chamber apart . This strange , tyrannicall , barbarous , and monstrous fact is suppressed in the Histories of England , and buried in silence , not unwisely , it being capable neither of defence nor excuse ; and yet is contrary to the lawes of Histories , and the duty of an Historian , who ought ( according to the oath of witnesses ) to tell all the truth , and nothing but the truth ; seeing where the truth is either adulterated or suppressed , the life of History is lost , which consists in particular circumstances , truly related . Neither do I see how this same King ( in the end of his life ) can pertinently and justly be called courteous and gentile , after such a fact , whereof few the like have fallen into the hands of the cruellest Tyrants that ever were recorded in story . And for my part I think certainly , that it is not possible that one who is of a nature truly gentile and courteous , should commit and be guilty of so foule a crime . It is a perpetuall blot and unexcusable , and such as no wit can wash away . So it is still , and so let it ever be branded and detested . So it was by our Governour the Lord of Galloway , and so much did it move him , and so farre stirre up his noble indignation , that he thought he could never be exonered with credit , without avenging of it , or spending his life in the quarrell , and so being resolved to fight , he would never give eare to any counsell on the contrary , nor alter his determination for any difficulty that could be proposed . And now K. Edward ( after that unpleasant spectacle , detested even by the English themselves ) had drawne up his Army , and taken a hill to the west of Berwick , called Halidoun hill , a place very advantageous for him ; and the Scottish Army did stand over against them in battell aray . The Governour commanded to march up the hill , and to invade the English where they stood , altogether against the counsell of the best advised , who both before , considering the inequalities of the Armies , both in number ( they being but few in respect of the English ) and in experience ( being for the most part young and raw souldiers , not yet trained ) had disswaded him from fighting any at all , and now seeing the odds , and inequality of ground , would gladly have opposed themselves thereunto . But all was in vaine : he was so incensed with that so detestable fact , that boiling with anger , and desiring of revenge , and trusting to the goodnesse of his cause , and to the forwardnesse of his Armie , who being inflamed in the like anger , upon the same occasion , were very desirous to joyne battell , esteeming that their earnestnesse of minde would supply their want of skill , and overcome all other difficulties , and thinking in himself , that if having bin a spectator of that vile and cruell murther , he should turne his backe without fighting , it would be accounted cowardise ; he prosecuted his resolution , and commanded to march forward , which was accordingly performed . They were first to descend and go down from a little hill on which they stood , then through a valley , and so to climbe up another hill so steepe that one man may ( as Major saith ) keepe downe foure , such is the scituation thereof on the west side . Wherefore the Scots , ere they could come to stroakes , were almost overwhelmed with shot and stones ; when they were come up , being quite out of breath , and charged from the higher ground , they were borne downe with violence , and slaine . Some write that the first joyning of the battell was at the foot of the hill , upon more even ground , but that the English gave somewhat back towards the side and ascent of the hill , and having gotten that advantage of the rising of the hill , made a fierce onset upon the Scots , who pursued them too rashly , supposing the English had fled , by which meane they were utterly overthrowne . There died of the Scots in this battell 10000. others say 14000. the English writers say 30000. A rare hoast amongst the Scots , though the Countrey had not been divided in it selfe : and there were but few more then 30000. when they overthrew the King of England with his invincible Army at the renowned battel of Bannockburn : but such is the custome and forme of their Writers , to extoll their owne facts , and to lessen their neighbours , for they say there were slaine onely at Bannockburne of the English 10000. and at this battell but 15. how apparently let the Reader judge . Our Writers say there was no small number of them slain , and that it was fought with great courage , neverthelesse of this inequality : neither did the Scots turne their backs , or give ground , untill their Generall ( fighting valiantly in the midst of them ) was slaine . There died with him John , James , and Allane Stuarts , sons to Walter Stuart , in his owne battell , the Earle of Rosse , to whom he had committed the Vauntguard , with Kenneth Earle of Sutherland , Alexander Bruce Earle of Carrict , Andrew , James , and Simon Frasers . Few were taken prisoners , and such as were taken , by the commandment of K. Edward were beheaded the next day , against the law of armes : some few were saved by their keepers , who were more covetous of their ransome , then of their bloud . Such cruelty did this gentile nature practise before the battell ( upon the Seatons ) in the the chase ( upon the flyers ) and after the battell ( upon the prisoners ) in cold bloud . But his aime was to make a full conquest of Scotland , which did faile him notwithstanding . This battell was fought July 22. 1333. called Magdalens day , accounted , by the superstition of the people , unfortunate for Scotland . Thus died Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway fighting for his Countrey : his love thereof , his indignation against so inhumane a fact is commendable : his magnanimitie likewise and valour is such as became his house : his conduct is blamed , and the cause thereof , whether it were anger or errour : his anger or desire of revenge , though the cause be never so just , should have beene bridled and tempered , and so governed , with such wisedome as might have effected a due punishment indeed , and not so headie , as to have precipitated himselfe and the Countrey into extreme danger and ruine , whilest he sought revenge . Or if it were errour , and too much relying upon the forwardnesse of his Army , that indeed is a thing not to be neglected , but to be taken hold of , and made use of , yet it ought not to be so farre trusted , but well imployed , and managed with judgement , as a good addition to other meanes and helps , but not that the whole hope of the victorie should be grounded and hang upon it alone ; farre lesse ought it to be made use of when there is too great odds . In which case it serves but for a spurre to set us on to our more speedy ruine . If it were feare that he should be thought a coward if he did not fight that moved him , his feare was needlesse : he had given good proofe of it before , and might have given more thereafter : he should have remembred that he was a Generall , and Leader , in whom want of wisedome and government were as much to be blamed as fearefulnesse . He was also a Governour , in whose safety the Kingdome was interessed , and who ought to have regarded the good thereof . In this ballance he should have weighed things , and should have done according to it , though with hazzard of a sinister report for a while , which might easily have beene recovered in the owne time . Concerning which , and all idle fame , and vaine opinion of ignorant people , we have that notable example of that worthy Fabius Maximus , the Romane Captaine , who neither by the provocation of the enemie , nor importunitie of the souldiers , nor disgracefull rumours scattered among the people , as if he durst not have fought , or had colluded with Hanniball , and other such slanders , could be moved to fight but at a convenient time . Nay rather then he would doe it , he suffered the halfe of his Armie to be taken from him , and given to his Lieutenant , as the hardier man than he , who both durst , and would fight , as he bragged . And so he did indeed upon the first occasion , but with such foole-hardinesse , as that he had both lost himselfe , and his whole Army , if Fabius had not come in time to his rescue ; who at that fit time of fighting shewed in effect both what he durst in manhood , and what he could do in wisedome ; and easily made those fond rumours to vanish , to his perpetuall glory , the confuting and confounding of his Competitour , and confession and acknowledgment of his worth from those who had blamed him before . Not unlike to this was the saying of great Scipio the Africane , who being reproached by a certain man that he was not so forward a fighter as he could have wished ( though in very deed he was forward enough ) daigned him with no other answer , but that his mother had borne him to be Commander , not a fighter ; thinking that a Captaines chiefe honour is to command well , and to choose fit times , places , and meanes for fighting . And not to goe any farther ; we heard before in good Sir James his life , how little he was moved at the English Heralds demands , who desired ( in the Kings name ) that he would fight him on the plaine field , upon equall ground , if he had either vertue or honour . Sir James sent him away with derision , as one that had made a foolish request , telling him , that a good Captaine should account it his honour not to fight for his enemies request , but as he found most expedient and convenient for himselfe , in wisedome , choosing the forme , the field , the time , the place , and all for the advantage of his Army , and giving no advantage to the enemy whereof he could possibly hinder him . And this I have insisted upon so much the more , because many that are of good spirits otherwise , do oftentimes erre in this false opinion , and thereby doe both lose themselves and their honours . So that while they affectate to be called hardie fighters , doe prove indeed to be foolish Captains , and ill Commanders , and so doe not eschew reproach , but incurre it . Neither get they the honour of valour , which they seeke , but the blame of temeritie and rashnesse , which they should avoid . So that the Writers speaking of this fact , doe all of them condemne it , and brand it with a note of ill conduct ; and some of them say in expresse termes , Archbald Lord of Galloway was not valiant ( in this case ) but temerarious and foolish ; very truly and wisely , to warne others to take heed , and beware of failing in the like kinde ; very soberly and respectively , restricting it to this particular onely , and in this case leaving him his due praise and commendation in his other actions , as ye have heard hee very well deserved . This defeat drew on with it the surrendring of the Towne of Berwick ( the next day after ) by Sir Alexander Seaton , and of the Castle by Patrick Dumbarre Earle of March , lives and goods safe , themselves giving their Oath of allegeance and fealty to the K. of England . He commanded the Earle of March to re-edifie the Castle of Dumbarre , which he , being not able to keepe it , had demolished , that it might not be a receit to the English . And within a short time this overthrow had wellnigh overthrowne the Kingdome , and the cause : for the greatest part of the Nobilitie , that were not dead before , being slain in this conflict , the rest flying to save themselves , to strengths & defa●…ts ; Balliol assisted by Robert Talbot ( a Noble man of England , whom the King had left with him , with a few English bands ) being aided by his Favourers in Scotland , made himself once more King , and was confirmed by Parliament , within half a yeare after he had been driven out . All yeelded obedience to him , save onely foure Castles , to wit , Loch-leven , Dumbarton , Kildrummie , Urwhart and Lowdon peele , seated on a little lake ; so that no man in Scotland durst call David Bruce their King , except young children in their playes : so far were matters altered by this check ! Where it is to be marked , that as by the wise and wary government of the same Archbald , his Countrey and lawfull King were defended , and Balliol chased out of his usurped Kingdome : So by the same mans oversight in government , both the usurping Edwards ( English and Scots ) are repossessed again therein , and his Countrey plunged into misery , and the rightfull King and his partners brought to great extremitie . Of so great efficacie is good , or evill government : therefore it is so much the more circumspectly to bee looked to , and to bee exercised according to the rules of wisedome , and not after the opinions of men , fame , and reports , anger , or whatsoever other cause doth make men stray from the right and strait course of reason . This was the lamentable condition of our Countrey : But let us have patience a while , and wee shall shortly have better newes . Both these usurpers shall ere long bee driven to let go their hold , and at last be utterly disappointed of all their hopes and projects ; God conserving the liberty of this Countrey , and the Crowne thereof to the rightfull heire , and the Bruces bloud , in whose posterity it shall yet prosper . In which work no little part shall bee the valiant and faithfull efforts of the Douglasses . Amongst whom it were requisite to speake of the next Lord Douglas : But the order of time draws me another way : it being long before his turne come in , even tenne or twelve , or perhaps twentie yeares , as shall be seen in the owne place , for hee hath been young ( it should seeme , ) and abroad out of the Countrey , but in his absence some other of the Douglasses must not be idle . Archibaldus Duglasius ad Halidonem coesus , 1333. Non potuit perferre nefas , foedamque Tyranni Persidiam . Et quisnam sustinuisse queat ? Ergo furens animi , atque accenso pectore inardet Praelia , & ingratas increpat usque moras . Poscimus aut aequo ( dixit ) certamine Martem , Aut certum est fatis cedere velle tuis . Ah nimis ! ah properant ! Non illis ignea virtus Defuerat : nocuit praecipetasse nimis . Nec te victorem jactes , temeraria virtus Sic nocuit . Vinci vis animosa nequit . In English thus , He was not patient enough to see The Tyrants faithlesse fact ( and who could be ) Hence his enflamed breast with anger sweld , Enrag'd at such impediments as held His hand from just revenge . Come let us trie Our chance , and winne the field , or bravely die . If fate will have it so , he said : and all With too much haste obey'd their Generall . No courage wanted , but the hard event Prov'd the act rash , and lose the punishment Of ill rul'd valour . Thou didst nothing gain , Who to his passion yeelds commands in vain . Of William Douglas Lord of Liddesdale , called the stowre of Chevalrie . BEfore we proceed to the rest of the Lords of Douglas , the order of the History requires , that wee speake something of William , not Lord of Douglas , but Lord of Liddesdale , and a worthy member of the house and name of Douglas . The first mention of him , and his actions , is at the battle of Annand , where hee was with Archbald , Lord of Galloway . The last of his actions of importance are in the beginning of the first Earle William , before the battle of Durham the space of thirteen yeares or thereby : which time hee imployed for his lawfull King and Countrey against the usurpers , so diligently as shall bee deduced in the progresse of this Story . Writers call him naturall sonne to Sir James slain in Spain , which is truth : But they erre when they say that John Lord Dalkeith was brother to William Lord of Liddesdale , hee being Liddesdales uncle , and Sir James brother , so master John Major hath Davidis , for Gulielmi , and Hollinshed , and Boetius William for Archbald , who was made Captain of the castle of Edinburgh , by this same William . But it is so clear and manifest whom they mean of , that there is no question to be made of it . However it be , he hath so honoured and nobilitated himself by his vertue , that no posteritie needs to enquire of his birth . We finde that he was married to a daughter of Sir John Grahame , Lord of Abercorne , called Margaret Grahame , by whom he got the lands of Liddesdale , he had but one onely daughter ( Marie ) who was married to Sir James of Lowden , who after the Lord Liddesdales his death , and Margaret Grahames , got the lands of Liddesdale . His first appearing , to wit , at the battell of Annand , hath been spoken of : after that hee was for his wisedome and manhood accounted worthy to have the custody and government of the West Marches , as the charge of the East Marches was committed to Patrick Dumbarre . Being Wairden there , hee had his residence at Annand , where at a certain skirmish with the English , his men were scattered , himself was hurt and taken prisoner , about that same time that Regent Murray was taken at Roxbrough , to wit , in the yeare 1332. before the battell of Halidoun hill , which was the occasion that he was not there with his uncle Archbald , Lord of Galloway . He continued a prisoner untill 1335. and then he and Murray were both set at libertie , having payed a great summe of gold for their ransome . It is strange that these two great Politicians ( the two Edwards I mean ) intending a conquest of Scotland , should have suffered such men to bee set at liberty at any rate , without making them sure to their side ; considering that the detaining of them would greatly have facilitate their designes : and their liberty , being enemies , hinder and annoy them , as we s●…all heare it did not a little . It was apparently the pride of their hearts in that good successe , which made them carelesse and secure , not fearing any danger from these or any else . So doth successe and pride growing thereupon commonly blind men : or so doth God blinde the , wisedome of unjust men , when hee hath a work to do against them . But before wee come to the rest of the deeds of this valorous Lord , we must take a view of the estate of things at that time , that the circumstances ( which are the life of History , and light of actions ) being knowne , the actions themselves may be the better considered . We have heard how desperately things went on the Brucian ( which was the onely right ) side : hee that was lawfull King durst not bee named , nor there was none that durst do so much as on●…e offer to call him King , but the little children in their play , who still stiled him so ; whether by a naturall inclination to their rightfull Prince , or by some spark of Divine inspiration joyned therewith , who can tell ? or who knowes these things ? what motions will either remain of old or spread of new in the hearts of men , where Gods work is to be done ? wise men keep silence , and therefore the stones behoved to cry out , and foolish simple babes beare witnesse that the Bruce was King , for all the usurpers confidence and crueltie : no doubt , it was with great derision , and contempt of the hearers , but the event did justifie it , that it had a secret mover . No man saw the means how it could come to passe , but means will not be wanting , where a work is to be done . This ought to be a heartning to good subjects in their lawfull Princes quarrell , and for good men in all good causes , not to despaire for want of means . Let men do their best , means will come from whence they least dream on : Perhaps it will fall out so here in this case : Out from among the midst of the enemies the first glimpse of deliverance doth arise . There were that conspired against the Bruce to wrack him , and the Countrey , England and the Balliols faction in Scotland , and those had overrunne all . There comes a blink of favour , and hope from Rome , by the procuring of France . The Pope sends to King Edward of England , to desist from invading of Scotland , but that evanished without effect : pride had so farre prepossessed his heart , that he thought himselfe sure to make a conquest of Scotland , pleasing himself in his owne conceit , and supposing Scotland neither durst , nor could ever make head against him hereafter : wherefore he will not do so much as give the Ambassadours leave to come into his sight . A manifest contempt , not so much of the people , as of the voyce of equity and reason : But he called it reason what he had ability to doe : ( Stat pro ratione voluntas ) is the voyce of Tyrannie , and indeed a change being to come , pride behoved to go before ; bùt the working of this is obscure , and not perceived at first openly : dissention amongst the conspirators doth arise upon a light occasion , a gnats wing ( as the Proverb is ) but it growes to a Mountain . Talbot an English man was appointed with Balliol ( as hath been said ) for to govern Scotland , his co-adjutors for re-conquering of it were ( amongst other Scots Englized ) David Cummin Earle of Athole , Henry of Beaumont , John Mowbray an old favourer of that faction , from the time of Edward the first , of whom he had received diverse lands for ill service to his Countrey , which Edward esteemed to bee good ; as indeed it was profitable to him . This John Mowbray was dead , and had left his lands to be divided between his two daughters , and his brother Alexander , or rather as a bone , and a matter of debate amongst the whole faction : for his daughters claiming it as heires of line , his brother by heire-male as entail , the Case was brought to judgement . Henry of Beaumont had married one of the daughters , he therefore was fracker froward that way , as one that was interessed . Talbot and Cummin swayed this way ; Edward Balliol enclined to the other party , and gave sentence for Alexander the brother . Hereupon dissention ariseth ; they grudge and murmure against the judgement , they complain of it in their open discourse , and speaches , as unjust : they withdrew themselves from Court , as mal-contents . Talbot goes into England ( perhaps to complain to the King ) and as he came thorow Lowthian , hee is taken by some of King Bruces party ( who began to show their heads upon this occasion ) and carried to Dumbarton where hee died : Beaumont put hand to work , and without so much as acquainting the King withall , takes Dungard a strong Castle in Buchan , and the rest of the lands that were in plea , hee ceaseth them , and makes them his owne by the law of the strongest . Cummin gets him into Athole and there fortifies himself against whosoever should assail him . This terrifies Balliol so , that he retreats his sentence , and turnes his coat ; agreeth with those two , granting unto Beaumont the lands which he had adjudged from him , and giving Cummin diverse other good lands which belonged to Robert Stuart , who shall reigne afterward , to shew upon what ill ground that gift was founded . But is he the better for this injustice ? for injustice it must be either first , or last , he is not so much the better , as in likelihood he should have been ; for injustice is never profitable . If hee gain one , he losseth another : hee winnes Cummin and Beaumont , but he loseth Alexander Mowbray : who thereupon joins himself to the other party . And thus was this usurpers faction brangled , then bound up again , and after divided again by want of worth in Balliol their head . But this is not all , for it seems that Cummins mind hath not been so much soundly reconciled to Balliol , as it hath been onely plaistered over , which may appeare to bee probably collected out of the History , which they say is thus . Edward of England came with 50000. men into Scotland ; to what purpose so many ? was there warre ? None saith he , nor rebellion greatly , that appeared any where , what doth hee then ? doth he fight with any man ? doth he fortifie Castles ? we heare no word of any such matter . What hath been his intention then ? wherefore came he , and with so huge an Army ? they tell not . But let actions speake , they will tell : All agree in this , that he tooke away Balliol into England ; there is one point : Then hee hath been jealous of him , and hath feared perhaps that he would not continue long his vassall , as his Grandfather had proofe , in Balliols father : but what doth he more ? hee leaves Cummin to guide the affaires in Scotland ; there is another point : Hee makes him Viceroy in Scotland for Balliol , and Balliol in effect prisoner in England . Of which course Edward of England is the Authour , let it bee so ; who will purge Cummin of having been a Counseller , a suggester of information for his owne advancement ? he being a man that did ever hunt after preferment , which he made the scope of his actions , and compasse , by which he ever failed , being also of an aspiring mind , and of a fickle and various disposition and nature . However it be , this is another division in that society between the Edwards , the usurping Kings . And thus much of the estate of their faction . Concerning the other partie that stuck to the lawfull King Robert Stuart , that afterward was King , had escaped Balliols ambush : being but fifteen yeares of age , and by the help of his friends , was conveyed to the Castle of Dumbarton , where hee was received by Malcolm Fleeming Captain thereof . Now both the Edwards being absent , and he having a particular spleen against Cummin , who possessed his private inheritance ; the said Robert with the help of Colin or Duncan Campbell in Argyle ( from whom he obtained an aid of foure hundreth men ) had taken the Castle of Dunholm in Coile , and destroyed the English Garrison there , whereupon the men of Boote ( which was his private inheritance ) had taken armes , slain Allane Lyle there Captain , and Sheriffe , who was placed there by Balliol and Cummin , and were come home very joyfull to their old master the Stuarts . Upon this Thomas Bruce Earle of Carrict with his friends , and neighbours of Coile , and Cunninghame , and William Karrudise of Annandale ( who had ever refused the English yoake ) coming forth out of the place where they had lurked , resorted to him also . John Randulph Earle of Murray was returned from France , and did incourage them with hopes of forreign help of Jefferey or Godfrey Rosse ( Sheriffe of Aire ) had drawne Coile , Carrict , and Cunningham to be of the partie ; Ranfrow was also returned to the Stuarts . By their example , the dependers of Andrew Murray had drawne all Cliddesdale to them , partly by faire means , partly by force . These under the command and leading of Robert Stuart , and John Randulph had passed into the North parts , chaised David Cummin , Governour for the English to Lochaber , and compelled him to yeeld , and swear obedience to David Bruce : Notwithstanding , that the enemy had committed to him so great a charge , as to bee Lieutenant for him in those parts . About this time or a little before , William Lord of Liddesdale returns from his captivity , having been three yeares in prison : And hee is no sooner returned , but that presently he begins to serve his King and Countrey faithfully , and diligently against both their enemies , Scots and Englized usurpers ; recompencing his long imprisonment with his enemies losses , especially in Lowthian : for the more easie performance hereof , and that hee might annoy them that were in the Castle of Edinburgh , ( which was then held by the English ) and them that went toward it , hee lay in wait in Pentland-hills . To him John Randulph , after that he had left David Cummin Earle of Athole Lieutenant for him in the North parts ( Randulph and Robert Stuart were chosen Governours by the Kings party ) did adjoyn himself as to his old and fast friend : from thence they both went to Perth , to a Convention of the States , the 2. of Aprill 1335. But there was nothing done at that meeting , because of the enmity betwixt the Lord Liddesdale , and David Cummin Earle of Athole . The occasion was , the Lord of Liddesdale alledged that hee was detained longer in prison , then other wayes he would have been , by the means of the the Earle of Athole , who ( no doubt ) did thinke it meet for Balliol and the English faction , and therefore advised them to keep him . And certainly he was wiser in that point , then they that set him at libertie for ransome : Now under the colour and pretext of this ill will between him and Liddesdale , Athole was so strongly accompanied with his servants and dependers , that the rest being jealous of his disposition , and fearing his present power did conclude no matter of importance , Robert Stuart enclined toward him , but all the rest favoured the Lord Liddesdale . Robert was young , and knew not the disposition of Athole , which the rest knew better , and what ods was between them in fidelitie , which was not long in discovering . For King Edward of England came with a great army , both by Sea and Land , and brought Balliol with him . So soone as he came to Perth , Athole being solicited to defection from Bruce , he was not very hard to wooe , whereas Liddesdale did still his uttermost endevours for him . One of the Governours ( to wit , Robert Stuart ) being sick , and the other ( John Randulph ) thinking it too heavie a burden for him alone to fight , divided his forces , that so he might the more annoy the King. Now word was brought to him , that there was a great army of the Guelders coming through England , to joyne with Edward , and help him against the Scots . Wherefore Randulph passeth over into Lowthian , to try if he could conveniently intercept them , and cut them off ere they should joyn with the King. There came hither to assist Randulph ( the Governour ) Patrick Earle of Marche , William Lord Liddesdale , and Alexander Ramsay of Dalhousie , and others . These being assembled together , lay in wait for them near Edinburgh in the Borrow moore : and so soon as they came in sight one of the other , without any delay of either side they joyned battell , and after a great conflict , the Guelders were put to rout , and chased to a little hill , where was a ruinous Castle . There they were besieged all that night , and the next day , they rendered themselves , lives safe . Others write that they fled to the Castle hill of Edinburgh , up Saint Maries wind or lane , defending themselves valiantly through the high street till they came to that place , where they slew their horses , and made ( as it were ) a rampart of their carcasses , and so saved themselves . There they stayed all that night , and having neither meat nor drink , nor convenient lodging , opprest with hunger , and cold , and thirst , , yeelded themselves on the morrow . This narration seems not to bee so probable , as the former ; for if it had been at the Castle of Edinburgh , it might have made them more support , at least releeved the Duke , and have saved him . Besides that , the town of Edinburgh should suffer strangers to passe through the midst of them , and neither aid them if they were friends , nor assail them if they were enemies , nor shut their gates if they were neutrall , for fear of some danger to come to their towne thereby , but suffer both parties to have free accesse into their chief street , and to stand as lookers on , it hath no great likelihood . They ascribe also the winning of the field , to the Lord of Liddesdale , who was not ( as Hollinshed sayes ) present at their first joyning battell , but came to it from Pentland-hills in so convenient time ; that if he had not come , the Guelders who fought exceeding well , had got the day . Others make no mention of Randulph , but of the Lord Liddesdale , and Alexander Ramsay with him . Those that write of this battell , tell of a huge and wonderfull stroake given by Sir David Annand in his fury , hee being hurt , stroke his enemy on the shoulder with a Pole-axe , and clave him and his horse down to the hard pavement , in which , the force of the stroake left a great mark long after . And no lesse memorable is the valour of a woman in the Guelders army , who at the beginning of the battell stept forth before her company , and encountred in a single combat or duell a Scotish Squire , named Robert Shaw , whom she slew , and afterwards beat downe her enemies on each side , till at last after a good time shee was compassed about , and so slain . The Duke of Guelder their Captain having yeelded , was courteously , and honourably used , his stuffe and baggage was restored to him , and himself set free . The reason of this was , because Randulph Earle of Murray , having been bred in France , knew that the French King did affect him ; and therefore to gratifie him , he shewed him this favour to let him go without any other hurt or dammage ; onely he made him sweare , hee should never aid the English again against the Scots . This same Author sayes that this was not the Duke of Guelders , but the Earle of Namurs called Guy contrary to all our Writers , who with one consent affirme that it was . And if it were Guy of Namurs , he had alwayes been an enemy , and received greater courtesie then enemies deserve , and more favour then was expedient for the Countrey . Nay , Randulph was not content to dismisse him free onely , but would needs for his safety , accompany him to England , in which journey they were suddenly set upon by the Lord Percie , and the Englized Scots , who had dressed an ambuscado for them , and there Randulph was taken , and the Lord Liddesdale hurt in the leg . The Governour was carried to the two Edwards that lay before Perth , which towne was thereupon soone after rendred unto him . Upon this successe of the usurpers faction , Athole very glad of what had falne out , accounting the prize now wonne , and following forth his fraudulent pollicie revolted again to the usurping Kings ; thinking it safest to side with the stronger , and did now clearly show , how worthy he was of that favour bestowed on him by Robert Stuart , who at the Convention at Perth had appeared on his side against the Lord Liddesdale . And not onely did Cummin come in to them , but undertakes also the government of Scotland once more as Lieutenant for the English , promising to root out all these of the contrary part that should stand out , and would not acknowledge their authoritie . The King of England partly for lack of victuals ( which were put out of the way by the Governour ) partly because of his journey into France , which he was then projecting , returned into his owne Countrey , and took along with him Balliol , who had the name of a King , but was indeed a very slave to another mans affection , for a vain and empty title ; a just reward for his foolish trusting to a stranger in prejudice of his Countrey . Athole being willing to doe what hee had said to the Edwards , that he might approve his service and fidelity unto them ( whereby hee proved also false to his lawfull King , and late benefactours ; his so friendly enemies , who had not onely pardoned him so lately , and saved his life , but trusted him so far , and committed so much to him ) left no kind of crueltie unpractised , that he could against his Countrey , so far , as that almost the whole Nobilitie relented , and became slack and remisse against him , or did yeeld unto him , having forgotten their duty . But behold the reward of such wisedom , and the due fruit of such seed as he had sown ; a fruit that is often reaped of such seed , if men would beleeve , & observe it : though the present appearance , the first buds and blossomes of things do blinde their eyes , & make them choose that which should not be chosen , which is unacceptable to man , and not past over by God , as is seen in this man before the yeare be fully expired . For Robert Stuart being sick , and Randulph a prisoner , there were left but three Noble men who stuck fast , and were faithfull to their King , and Countrey . These were William Lord Liddesdale , Patrick Earle of March , and Andrew Murray who had been Governour . They were so constant , that no promises could corrupt their fidelitie , nor no threatning nor danger could quail their courage so , as to bow their hearts to any English servitude . Some adde unto these the Earle of Rosse , and William Lord Keith . These did greatly hate his unnaturall dealing against his Countrey , and treachery against his promise , and crueltie joyned withall : three things ever odious and hatefull to honest minds . Wherefore understanding that hee lay at the siege of the Castell of Kildrummie , they levied such companies and number of men as they could get , and marched towards him . Cummin being advertised hereof , raiseth the siege , and meeteth them in the fields within the Forrest of Kilblane : There they fought it very hardly , and Cummin being more in number , had overthrown them ( as it is thought ) but that John Craig Captain of Kildrummie , issuing forth with three hundreth fresh men , restored the battell which was almost lost , and gave them an undoubted victory , which when Cummin perceived ( being conscious of his owne ill deserving ) that he might not fall into his enemies hands alive , he rushed into the midst of the battell , and so was slain : Sir Robert Minyeis fled to the Castle of Kenmure ( saith Boetius ) who saith also that Alexander Gordon was he that flew Athole ; but others attribute it to the Lord Liddesdale himself , who for that cause , and for the slaughter of Sir Thomas Minyeis ( it may be they mean Sir Robert ) at the Castle of Lochindors , in the Sheriffe-Sheriffedome of Bamfe , was rewarded with the Earledome of Athole , and is so stiled in the resignation by which hee surrenders it again some foure yeares after ( to wit , 1341 ) the 16 of February in favour of Robert Stuart , Great Stuart of Scotland , whereof the evident is yet extant in the Register . There died in this battell besides Athole , Walter Braid , and Robert Cummin , and a great number of others both Gentlemen and Commons . Sir Thomas Cummin was taken prisoner , and the next day ( being the 1. of January ) he was beheaded . They were not above 1000. or ( as some write ) 500. choice men against 3000. yet the event was ( as wee have said ) favourable to the just and right cause . This battell was fought the last of December , 1337. By this blink of fair weather in such a storme of forrain assaults , things were again somewhat changed , and the Brucians encouraged : wherefore that they might have some face of a settled estate and government , they choose Andrew Murray Regent as hee had been before his captivitie . He went into the North , and in the mean time the Lord of Liddesdale with a company of chosen men passeth over into Fysse , and besieged the Castle of Saint Andrews , Falkland , and Luchers , all which he tooke in with small difficulty , by his wisedome , and manhood , though they were strongly manned , and well fortified , and furnished with munition , and victuall . Major referreth this to the time after the Governour came backe out of the North. After this , he returned into Lowthian to his old haunt in Pentland-hills to wait his time , and watch the English that say in Edinburgh Castle , that hee might slip no occasion of troubling , and molesting them . At last this occasion did happen ; the Towne being full stuft with a great number of Souldiers , both English and Scots : There was a scottish man amongst them of a stout stomack , named Robert Phanderghest whose lot was ●…allen to be on that side , but his heart was with the other party , and hee carried no great good will to the English. This being perceived he was the worse entreated by them , so that one day his head was broken by the Marshall Thomas Kneveton , whereat taking indignation , hee sought all means to bee avenged thereof , and so brought it to passe that he shortly after slew him ; and to avoid the danger of punishment , fled to the Lord Liddesdale , whom having informed of the negligence that was growne amongst the English ; he perswaded him to take advantage of their sloath , he nothing slack in a businesse of that nature , went secretly in the night to the Towne , and slew foure hundreth of them in their sleep , and drunkennesse , before they could make any resistance . About this time Murray the Regent dieth , after he had brought back all the Northerne parts of Scotland to his Princes obedience excepting Perth , a great losse for his Countrey , and hee greatly regrated ; But no losse is without some gain . Robert Stuart had now recovered his health , who was the other Governour ; ( and as some write ) hee assumed the Lord Liddesdale for his collegue , whether that were so or not , and what ever his place and name was , hee was a notable adjunct to Robert Stuart , and under his authority performed much good service , and profitable to King and Countrey with great hazard of his life , by receiving of many wounds ; while he did assail and vanquish greater numbers with far fewer : So that by his prowesse and singular valour hee reduced Tivedale , Niddesdale , Annandale and Cliddesdale ( except the Hermitage ) to the Kings obedience , having expulsed from thence all the English. These lands and strengths were lost again after the battell of Durham , and recovered again the second time , by VVilliam the first Earle of Douglas , which wee have inserted here , lest men inconsiderately should confound , and mistake the one VVilliam for the other . By these doings his name came to bee spred throughout the whole Island , insomuch that Henry Lancaster Earle of Darbie hearing thereof , and being himself a valiant man , and desirous of glory , provoked him to fight with him hand to hand on horseback : but at their first encounter , the Lord of Liddesdale his hand was so sore wounded with his owne speare ( which brake hard at his hand ) that hee was not able to prosecute the combate , whereupon it was delayed . Major maketh mention of his justing , and joyneth Alexander Ramsay with him at Berwick : hee telleth also of one Patrick Grahame , who being provoked and challenged by an English man into the field , told him he was content ; but wished him to dine well , for hee would send him to suppe in Paradise , which hee also did : hereupon hee condemns these justs and duels in time of peace ; so that it should seeme there have been some peace or truce . But wee heare not of any , I doe rather thinke there hath been some assurance at that time . That same yeare , the King of England sent a very valiant Knight named Sir Thomas Barcklay into Scotland with a great power of men to assist their faction : Robert Stuart and the Lord Liddesdale goe against him , and gave him battell at Blackburne ; where the Lord of Liddesdale fought so eagerly , that all his men being slain , he and Robert Stuart having onely three left with them , continued still fighting , and defended themselves till night , which being come on , by favour thereof they escaped , and saved themselves by flight . It was not long ere he recompensed this losse , by the defeating of John Stirline and his company . This Stirline with five hundreth men assailed the Lord Liddesdale at unawares , at a place called Cragens , having but fourtie in his company , as he was journeying without any feare or suspicion of an enemy . This did put him into a great feare at first , but he recollecting himselfe out of that sudden affrightment , fought so valiantly that hee defeated Stirline , slew fiftie of his men , and tooke fouretie prisoners . Afterward the English that lay at Creighton , made divers onsets and incursions upon him , in one of which he was runne through the body with a speare , and was thereby disabled to doe any service for a season . So soone as he was recovered , being accompanied with twenty men onely , he set upon sixty English , at a place called The blacke Shaw , and having wisely taken the advantage of the ground , which was fitter for foot then horsemen , he slew and took them every one . In the same year 1338. the 24. of December , or as others , the 2. of November , he set upon the convoy of the English that were carrying vivers to the Castle of Hermitage , as they were in Melrosse , or neare to it , and defeated them , but not without great slaughter of his owne men : and so having got the victuals , he went and besieged the Castle of Hermitage , tooke it , and did victuall it with the same victuall which he had taken at Melrosse . He vanquished also Lawrence Vauch ( alias Rolland Vauch ) a very valiant man , with a great company of Englishmen . And in the yeare following ( 1339 ) he fought five times in one day with Lawrence ( or William ) Abernethie , a Leader under Balliol , and having beene put to the worse foure times , saith Hollinshed , Boetius , five times , at the sixth time vanquished him , and slew all his men , and took himselfe prisoner , and thereafter presented him to Robert Stuart , who sent him to the Castle of Dumbartan . For these and such other exploits atchieved by him , he was highly esteemed of all men , and got the name which is commonly used of him , The flowre of Chivalrie . He was after this sent Ambassadour into France to informe King David of the estate of the Realme , and to conferre with him about weighty matters , being either chosen for his worth , or only sent by Robert Stuart as his Collegue , and so fittest for that employment . While he was there he obtained pardon of the K. of France , and peace for one Hugh Hambell a famous Pirate . During his absence in France , Robert Stuart had laid siege to St. Johnstoun in the yeare 1339. and had divided his Army into foure squadrons , under foure chiefe Captaines ( each Captaine commanding a part ) of which he himselfe was one , the Earle of March another , William Earle of Rosse the third , and Magnus Mowbray Lord of Cliddesdale the fourth . It was divers times assaulted , but they were repulsed with losse , it being valiantly defended by the English that were within . They had lien at it ten weekes without doing any good , and were now almost quite out of hope to take it ; so that they began to thinke of leaving off , when in the very meane time the Lord Liddesdale arrives on Tay , having brought with him out of France Hambell the Pyrate , with five ships well furnished with men , munition , and weapons . These men the Lord Liddesdale had hired in France of purpose for this businesse ; amongst them were two Knights of the family of Castle Galliard , and two Esquires , Giles de la Hayes , and John de Breise , He landed a part of the souldiers , and left the rest in the Ships to keepe the mouth of the river , and he himselfe marched to Cowper in Fife to take it . It had beene deserted by the Englishmen for want of ●…ivers in the time of Murray the Governour , and now againe it was seized by the Englized Scots for the use of the English. Their Captaine at this time was one William Bullock an English Priest , but a valiant man , who was also Treasurer for them and the faction . The Lord Liddesdale deales with him , that seeing there was no hope of succour from England , and that the Scots Garrison was not to be trusted to , he would forsake the English faction , and enter into King Davids service , promising to procure him lands in Scotland . Bullock accepted his offer , and having obtained his promised lands , hee did much service afterward to the King and the Lord of Liddesdale . Having by this meanes recovered Cowper , he returned to the siege of Saint Johnstoun , where ( as he was ever forward ) he was hurt in the leg with the shot of a Crosbow going to the Scalade . Neverthelesse , he departed not till the Towne was taken , or given up by the Governour thereof Thomas Uthred . The manner of the taking of it was this : when the siege had lasted foure moneths , and was like to have continued longer , the Earle of Rosse by digging of Mines drew away the water , and dried up the Fousses and Ditches , so that the Souldiers going to the assault upon dry ground , and approaching the walls without any let or difficultie , beat the defenders from off the walls , especially by shooting of darts and arrowes out of the Engines which they had caused make : And so they rendred , and departed with bag and baggage in the yeare 1340. Within foure dayes after Stirline was also besieged , and rendred on the same conditions . After the siege of Saint Johnstoun was ended , the Lord Liddesdale rewarded the Frenchmen very liberally , and sent them backe into France well contented . He caused also restore to Hugh Hambell one of his best Ships , which was taken by the enemie during the siege . For Hambell having adventured to approach the Towne with his Ships to give an assault , one of them was taken by the English , and now was restored . Thus K. Davids party did flourish by the faithfull valour of these his good and notable subjects , and prevaile against the pretended K. Balliol : who seeing such successe in K. Davids affaires , durst show his face no longer ; but having lurked a while in Galloway , by changing and shifting places for feare of being intercepted , and wearying of that kinde of life , he returnes into England now the second time after his conquest ; he did not possesse his Kingdome long , and but with little ease or contentment , what by the Scots chasing of him , what by the King of England ( his good Master ) detaining of him little better then a captive . A shadow of a kingdome , or slaverie rather ; being miserable indeed , yet sees he not his miserie , but seeketh it againe , and loseth it againe . But let us returne to our Lord of Liddesdale , who desists not here from doing of good service to his King and Countrey . Edinburgh Castle is yet in the possession of the English : it was too strong to force , wisedome must supply , which was not lacking in him , no more then valour ; a good harmonie , and happy conjunction , which were ever to be wished ! There was one Walter Towers ( of whom are descended the Towers of Innerleith ) a man of his acquaintance , and a follower of him , had ( by chance ) a Ship laden with victuall in the Firth of Tay beside Dundie . Liddesdale causeth him to bring about his Ship to Forth , where ( as he was instructed ) feigning himselfe to be an English Merchant , and sending some slagons of very fine wine to the Captaine of the Castle , he prayed him to take him into his protection , and that he would give such order as the rest of his victuall might be free from all danger and perill of his souldiers , and of the enemie ; promising that if the Garrision in the Castle had need of any thing , he should command any thing that was in his power , so farre as it could reach . The Captaine desired him to send some hogsheads of the same wine , and some bisket bread , and promised him accesse when he pleased : he further warned him that he should come timely in the morning for feare of the Scots , that did make frequent onsets and incursions in those parts . The Lord of Liddesdale being advertised hereof , chooseth out 12. of his best men , and the same night goeth out to Walter Towers ship , and he and his men having borrowed the Mariners apparell , did put it on above their Armour , and so went to the Castle , carrying the wine and victuall with them : he had before placed the rest of his men as neare as he could , that they might be in readinesse , upon a signe given them , to come to the Castle to his aid . Liddisdale himselfe , with Simeon Fraser , and William Bullock ( say our Writers , but his name was Sir John Bullock ) went a little before , and the rest followed a certaine space after . When they were let in within the Bulwarke , perceiving the keyes of the Castle hanging upon the Porters arme , they slew him , and without noise opened the gate , and presently gave the signall , by winding of a horne . This sound gave warning both to his friends and enemies , that the Castle was taken . Both made haste , the one to defend , the other to pursue ; but the Scots having a steep hill to ascend , behoved to come forward the more slowly : for that cause ( lest their Lord should be excluded from his men ) they cast down the carriage in the gate to keep it open , and having fought a sharp fight , at last they that were within gave place : the Captaine with six more were taken , the rest were all slaine . And having thus wonne the Castle , he made his brother William Douglas ( say they , but should call him Archbald ) Keeper and Captain thereof . This same yeare or the next ( 1342. the 30. of March ) Alexander Ramsay tooke Roxburgh in Tividale , and sone after John Randulph was set at liberty in exchange for John Montague taken in France ( saith Major ) and tooke in his owne Castle of Lochma-bene in Annandale . So that by the industrie and efforts of these three Wairdens , the Lord Liddesdale in the middle March , Alexander Ramsay in the East , and John Randulph in the West : the English were wholy expelled out of Scotland beyond the Borders , which fell out in the time of Edward the third : neither did the English men possesse one foote of Scottish ground , excepting the towne of Berwick . Such good service did these Noblemen , with the other good Nobilitie , in the minoritie and absence of their Prince from his Countrey , against the great force of England , and a great part of their owne Countrey of Scotland , being unfaithfull Subjects , unnaturall Sc●…ttishmen . And this these Nobles did even for the love they bore to King Robert , this Davids father , bearing the heat of the day for him , while he is at ease and securitie , with watching , hunger , thirst , cold and great effusion of their bloud , to make the Kingdome peaceable to him , choosing to adventure their lands , their lives , and whatsoever worldly thing is deare unto men , rather then to abandon him , and follow his enemies with ease and quietnesse , under whom they might have lived a peaceable life ; if they would set aside regard unto their honour and duetie . Such is the force of the love of Subjects , beyond all strength of men , and riches of treasures , onely able to bide a stresse , and hold out : As may bee teen by this example to bee remarked greatly by subjects , and entertained above all treasure by Soveraignes , and to be accounted a chiefe , yea almost the onely point of true policy , to love and make much of all men , and most specially their Nobilitie ; that they may in such their Princes straits ( when they shall happen ) endure the better as these men did , which they could not have done , if they had not had authority and dependance , and so been respected by their inferiours : who so would diminish this authority in Noblemen ; abasing them too farre , and making them suspect to Princes , and not safe for them , they erre greatly in policie , and unadvisedly cut the props of the Princes standing , which being brangled but a little , his Kingdome is easily bereft him , all authoritie going away with his owne person : It fell well out with King David Bruce , that these Noblemen were not so , and therefore the more able to doe so great things for him . After these things , they sent Ambassadours to desire King David to come home , and so hee did the 2. of June that same yeare . His first Act was carefully to inquire for , and gratefully to reward such as had suffered in his service , a prudent Act ; But allas ( the mal heur ) it falleth often out that Princes know not all things , and ere they be informed , they many times conclude . The cause of many errours and much mischief hath happened thereby , as it fell out here . We have heard how the Lord of Liddesdale ( amongst many his notable services ) had in speciall expelled the English out of Tividale , and diverse other places , by his wisedome and valour , and was therefore rewarded with the same lands , which he injoyed afterwards as his rightfull inheritance from thenceforth he so used it , as in a manner conquered by himself . He was Wairden , and so defended it : defending ministred justice , and discharged the place and office of Sheriffe , having wonne it from the enemy . This hee did with the tacite consent of the Countrey , and by allowance of those that were in authoritie . Thus being in possession , and trusting to his deserving towards King and Countrey , and the Nobilitie of his bloud , and potencie of that house he was come of ; he looked for no competitour in that which he had taken from the enemy . And not knowing or not caring for the Law ( as is customable to Martiall men ) or perhaps being prevented , being slower in going to King David , or on some such like occasion : the Sheriffe-ship is give●… from him to another . Alexander Ramsay was amongst the first that welcomed King David at his return , and was received kindly as hee had merited , and much made of by him , who for his service gave him the keeping of the Castle of Roxbrough , and together with it ( whether of the Kings owne free and mere motion , or any other suggestion , or by Ramsayes procurement ) the Sheriffe-ship of Tividale , very unadvisedly if hee knew Liddesdales interesse , very ill formed , if he knew it not . Very imprudently ( say our Writers ) who blame the Kings indiscretion , for giving it from William Douglas Lord of Liddesdale , to Alexander Ramsay ; and for withdrawing of it from so worthy a man , so well deserving to whomsoever , for that was to make a division among his owne : so it proved , for VVilliam Douglas of Liddesdale tooke it very highly that Alexander Ramsay , should be preferred before him to that office . But hee was chiefly incensed against the taker of it , as having done him a great indignitie , which makes it apparant that hee hath not onely accepted of it , but sued for it : therefore set altogether on revenge , he suppressed his ire for that present . But after some three moneths , as Alexander Ramsay was exercising the office in Hawick , and looked for no such thing : hee set upon him , and having slain three of his men that stood to the defence of their master , hee hurt himself , and casting him on a horse , carried him to the Hermitage , where hee died of famine , according to the testimony of sundry of our Writers , and the black booke of Sc●…ne , where it is showen that hee was taken the 20. of June , and keeped seventeene dayes without meat , save that some few grains of corne , which falling downe out of a corne lost which was above him , were gathered by him and eaten . Such is the unbridlednesse of anger ( justly called fury ) to be greatly blamed in him , yet they marke the cause thereof , the Kings unadvisednesse in procuring thereby the losse and ruine of so worthy a man of war , farre from his fathers prudencie and probitie . The King ( not acquainted yet with military dispositions ) was marvellously moved therewith , and purposed to have punished it exemplarily to deterre others from doing the like , and therefore caused search very diligently to have apprehended Liddesdale , but in vain : for hee withdrew himself to the mountains , and desert places ; and in time obtained pardon by the sute of his friends , of whom he had purchased good store by his worthy acts for the liberty of his Countrey ; Among whom Robert Stuart the Kings sisters sonne was his speciall good friend . That which most effectually served to procure him favour , was the magnifi●…ke , but true commemoration of the great exploits atchieved by him , the consideration of the time , in respect whereof ( the peace being uncertain without , and things not very quiet at home ) military men were to bee entertained , and used with all favour . By this occasion he did not onely obtain pardon for his fault , but hee got also the gift of keeping of the Castle of Roxbrough , and Sheriffeship of Tivedale ( and all other his lands in Tivedale , or elsewhere restored to him ) which the other had , and which were the cause of the slaughter . This clemencie of King David was ( perhaps profitable for that time , but pernicious in example . ) This fell out ( as hath been said ) three moneths after the Kings coming home , and therefore in October , or ( perhaps in September ) at the head Court in Hawick . His pardon was obtained , and his peace made with the King a little before the battell of Durham , which was in the yeare 1346. the 17. of October : So as hee hath beene three or foure yeares a banished man. After his returne from banishment , finding the King bent upon his journey against England , he wisely and earnestly disswaded him , and did exhort him first to take order with the discorders at home , and before all things to settle them . For the Earle of Rosse had slain the Lord of the Isles , whereby a great party of the Kings army was diminished , the Lord of the Isles men lying back for want of a head ; and so the Lord Rosse , and his men for feare of punishment . So did also many others that lay neare them , retire and go home , fearing least they should suffer in their absence by their neighbourhood to those disagreeing Lords , and be some way endamaged ; wherefore they thought good to provide in time , the best they could against all perrills that might happen . For this cause hee councelled the King , first to settle peace amongst his owne subjects before he enterprised a forraign war ; that peace being settled , and his army united , he might the more strongly , and with better successe invade England . But the King contemning his good and wholsome counsell , ( his French friendship prevailing more with him , then either his owne good , or the good of his Countrey ) hee raised an army wherewith hee entred England , and was encountred by the English at Durham , where the Scots were defeated , King David Bruce taken prisoner , and with him ( beside others ) VVilliam Earle of Douglas , and the Lord of Liddesdale , who were shortly after ransomed or dismissed so much the more easily , for that they had the King , and so cared the lesse for others . This sell out in the yeare 1346. October the 17. as hath been said . While the Lord Liddesdale is a prisoner amongst his enemies , he forgetteth not his friends at home . Sir David Barcklay had slain one John Douglas , brother to Sir VVilliam , and father to Sir James of Dalkeith ( say our Writers ) beside Horsewood : but they should say rather , brother to Sir William , ( for there Sir William is the same Lord of Liddesdale , of whom wee now speake , sonne naturall to good Sir James ) neither was John Douglas slain in Horsewood , but in Kinrosher , by Loch-leven . This Barcklay also had taken Sir John Bullock at the Kings command , and put him in prison in Lindores , where hee died of hunger almost in the same sort that Sir Alexander Ramsay died . The Writers lay the blame on the Nobilitie that envied so worthy a man , and accused him salsely to the King of unsaithfulnesse ; but they tell not in what point . They themselves call him a worthy Chaplain of great wisedome , singular prudencie , and eloquence , beyond any in his time , who had been Chamberlain to Edward Balliol , Treasurer to the rest of the Englishmen in Scotland , and lastly , Chamberlain to King David , and amongst the chief of his Counsellers reputed as another Chussay . Neverthelesse , thus was he delated , and taken away , having done divers good offices in the Common-wealth , and being very necessary unto it . The Lord of Liddesdale had drawne him from the English faction to King Davids party , and he had used him in good services , whereof hee was not forgetfull , ever remaining one of his speciall friends . This giveth men matter of suspition , that his death was for ill will to the Lord of Liddesdale by the King incensed against him , never digesting in heart the death of Sir Alexander Ramsay , whereby the King is blamed , as counseller or follower thereof ; and that Sir David Barcklay enemy to him , did execute it willingly , or did procure the Kings command thereto . The taking of the Castle of Edinburgh , in the yeare 1341. by the Lord of Liddesdale , was plotted by Sir John Bullock , say the Writers , who in quicknesse of wit , and sharpnesse of invention past all men in his dayes . In revenge of this , Liddesdale causeth slay Sir David Barcklay , by the hands of Sir John Saint Michaell ( say they ) but they should have said Carmichaell in Aberdene . A just fact , but not justly done ; the matter was good , the forme ill , being besides and against all order , but who could wait for order in so disordered a Countrey ? when should hee by order of law have obtained justice , his Prince being in captivitie ; his duetie to his friends defendeth the fact , the estate of the Countrey excuseth the forme . God looketh not so upon things : hee had before ( as wee heard ) slain Sir Alexander Ramsay , he must not want his owne share , but who durst doe it ? The avenger of bloud finds the means . Such is the estate of man , what can they lean to on earth ? ere he do not pay that debt of bloud , the Earle of Douglas shall exact it ; his Chief , his Cousin , and to adde that also his owne sonne in Baptisme ( as the Lord Liddesdale was to the Earle of Douglas , for the black book of Scone calleth him his spirituall father ) and thus it came to passe . The Lord of Liddesdale being at his pastime , hunting in Attrick Forrest , is beset by William Earle of Douglas , and such as hee had ordained for that purpose , and there assailed , wounded and slain beside Galsewood in the yeare 1353. upon a jealousie that the Earle had conceived of him with his Lady , as the report goeth , for so sayes the old song . The Countesse of Douglas , out of her Boure she came , And londly there that she did call ; It is for the Lord of Liddesdale , That I let all these teares downe fall . The song also declareth how shee did write her love letters to Liddisdale , to disswade him from that hunting . It tells likewise the manner of the taking of his men , and his owne killing at Galsewood , and how hee was carried the first night to Lindin Kirk , a mile from Selkirk , and was buried within the Abbacie of Melrosse . The cause pretended , or the cause of this slaughter , is by our Writers alledged to be the killing of this Alexander Ramsay , and Sir David Barklay , and some other grudges , and so the Earle said himself , as they say , and so it was indeed , if we looke unto God ; but who doth beleeve him , that it was on his part ? no Writers , no report , no opinion of men doth beleeve it , not untill this day . They lay the cause on his ambition , on his envie of Liddesdales honour , and jealousie of his greatnesse . Reason swaies to the same side , and brings great if not necessary arguments : for what had hee to doe with Alexander Ramsay , that he should for his sake dippe his hands in his owne bloud ? farre lesse for Sir David Barcklay , on whom he himself should have taken avengement , if the Lord Liddesdale had not done it ; this John Douglas whom Barcklay slew , being so neare to himselfe ; but something must bee said to colour things . But this will not colour this blemish , though in a faire body indeed as we shall see hereafter . Doth ambition spring from a great minde ? Doth envie , of vertue ? jealousie , of hatred ? Let noble hearts eschew them ; it is the basest thought that can fall into a mans mind . Right minds love vertue , even in strangers , even in enemies ; generous minds strive to do better , not to hinder such as do well . It is a strange maxime and ill grounded , a wicked wisedome and perverse policy , to keep backe ones friend in whom vertue appeares . It is of follies the greatest folly , to hinder their growth , for fear they should overgrow our greatnesse ; the which when we doe , it comes to passe that wee are outgrowne by strangers , and often by our enemies : yea undermined oftentimes , while our friends ( thus kept under ) are unable to underprop us , as they both should and would do : a just reward of so unjus●… wisedome . But for themselves to put hand in them for their worth , I can finde no name to it . I must wish this Nobleman had beene free from so foul a blot , and I would fain vindicate him , and some small appearance there is , that it was not his fact . But the current of witnesses lay it upon him , and who can contend against all the world . Wherefore let us regrate it and not allow it , eschew it and not excuse it , or follow it , as we are too ready to ●…ollow evill examples . To returne , thus he lived , and thus hee died , for whose Elogium short , but worthie ; let it be said ( as it was then blazed in the mouthes of men , and ●…ited by the manuscript ) He was terrible and fearefull in armes ; meek , milde and gentle , in peace ; the s●…ourge of England , and sure buckler and wall of Scotland , whom neither hard successe could make slack , nor prosperous slo●…full . Hee is stiled by the Writers a second to none , and by consent of that age and voyce of the people , the slowre of Chivalrie : he was often wounded , thrice a prisoner , and ever ready to fight again , what manhood ? what wisedome behoved it to be ? with fifty men , to overcome five hundreth : with twenty , to take and slay sixtie . What invincible minde was it , that being defeated five times in one day , hee had the courage to sight and overcome the sixth time . Let Hanniball wonder at Mar●…llus , that neither overcoming , nor overcome , would suffer him to rest yet was he not thus restlesse that we reade of , a worthy branch of such a stock , a true member of such a house , well retaining that naturall sappe sucked from his Predecessours , of valour , and of love to his Countrey . And thus farre concerning the name of Douglas in this branch thereof , in the time of the minority or absence of the chief . Now let us return to the Principall stock , the Earle of Douglas himself . Gulielmus Douglassius Liddalianus , 1333. caesus Omnia quando habeas , quae Mars dedit omnibus unus Ut Mars Marte ferox fulminet alta tuo , Hoc putes ut patiare parem ; tibi Def●…it unum hoc : Quin age posce hostem caetera solus eris . Johns Heroes . In English thus . Whiles thou alone all valour didst enjoy , Mars doth bestow on those he would imploy , One onely vertue wanting , doth appeare To make thee excellent , thou couldst not beare An ●…all , bate this pride , and thou s●…alt have This honour never souldier was more brave . Of William the fifth of that Name , the tenth Lord , and first Earle of Douglas . UNto Hugh the ninth Lord of Douglas , did succeed his nephew William sonne to Archbald Lord of Galloway , and Governour of Scotland , who was slain at Hallidon hill . Of this William the other great branch of Douglasses doth spring ; to wit , the house of Angus , which overtoppeth the rest , and at last succeedeth unto the place of the stock . Hee it is also that raiseth the house to the dignitie of an Earledome , and doth greatly increase the state thereof . That he was sonne to Archbald , and not to Sir James ( as some doe mistake it ) it is cleare by divers confirmations , in which Sir James is expresly termed his uncle , and Archbald his father . And so doth the Charter witnesse , upon which the confirmation proceeds . The Charter is given by Hugh Lord Douglas brother and heire to the late Sir James Douglas , to William sonne and heire to Archbald brother to good Sir James Douglas . It is dated at Aberdene the 28. of May. 1342. The Kings Charter likewise cleareth it , bearing David dei gratiae , & . Sciatis nos concessisse , & . Gulielmo de Douglas ( saith the one ) Confirmasse dilecto , & fideli nostro Gulielmo de Deuglas militi ( saith the other ) Omnes terras reditus , & possessiones per totum regnum nostrorum , de quibus quondam Jacobus dominus de Douglas avunculus suus , & Archibaldus de Douglas Pater suus milites obierunt vestiti . Touching his marriage , we finde that hee had three wives ! The first was Margaret , daughter to the Earle of Dumbarre and March ; by whom he had gotten two sonnes ; James slain at Otterburn , and Archbald called the grimme Lord of Galloway , and afterward Earle of Douglas : and one daughter married to the Lord of Montgomerie . His second wife was Margaret Marre , daughter to Donald or Duncan Earle of Marre , and afterwards heire , and inheritrix of that Earledome : for this Duncan had but one sonne named Thomas and this Margaret , Thomas twise married : by his first marriage he had one onely son named Thomas also : This second Thomas was married to Marjoric sister to this William Earle of Douglas , but died without issue : his father Thomas married a second wife , Margaret Stuart , who was inheritrix of the Earledome of Angus , but he had no children by her : so that there being none left now of Duncans race , but this Margaret Marre , married to the Earle of Douglas : we finde him stiled Earle of Marre in his wives right in the yeare 1378. whereof divers Monuments and Evidents yet extant do beare witnesse . By this Margaret Marre , he had one onely daughter Isabell Douglas , who did succeed to the Earledome of Marre . She was twice married , First to Malcome Lord Drummond , by whom shee had no children . Secondly , to Alexander Stuart , sonne to the Earle of Buchan , brother to King Robert the third , but had no children by him neither , yet she did resigne the Earledome in his favour , as a Charter given thereupon by King Robert the third to him and his heires , which falling unto her and her heires . Thirdly , the Earle of Douglas after the decease of Margaret Marre , tooke to his third wife Margaret Stuart daughter to Thomas Stuart Earle of Angus , and his heire and inheretrix of the lands , & Earldome of Angus . This Thomas was son to John Stuart , & brother to Walter Stuart the great Stuart of Scotland , who married Marjorie Bruce , daughter to King Robert Bruce . Now this Margaret had a brother who died without issue , and a sister called Elizabeth , married to Alexander Hamilton of Cadyow . Margaret Stuart herselfe was first married to Thomas Marre Earle of the same , and sonne to Duncan or Donald , but had no children by him . Then shee was married to this William Earle of Douglas , by whom she had a sonne named George . This George succeeded to her in the Earledome of Angus , and by gift of his sister Isabel Douglas inheritrix of Marre , he got the lands that she had gotten from her father : which disposition Isabel made to her brother George , and not to James or Archbald , for good considerations to be related at large hereafter , when we shall come to treat of the house of Douglas . And so we see him very fortunate and honourable in his marriage , in his purchases , and in his children : his honourable minde appeares in his deportment to his sister Uterine , whom the Writers call Elconora de Bruce , to whom he gives no lesse then the Baronie of Wester Calder in maritagium to her and her heires whatsoever , with her husband Sir James Sandilands , as the transumpt of the Charter beares , extracted by James Douglas Lord Dalkeith 1420. April 4. The Charter it selfe is not dated , but the giver is cleare , Gulielmus Douglas Dominus loci ejusdem , and Sir James his entaile doth cleare it , in which he is called Earle of Douglas and Marre . This Elionora Bruce had to her father Robert Bruce ( some call him Alexander ) son to Edward slaine in Ireland , and Cousin Germane with K. Robert. He was Earle of Carrict , and after the death of Archbald Lord of Galloway , he married his relict this Earles mother , and had by her this Lady Elionora , who ( as we have said ) was married to Sir James Sandilands . In regard of this marriage , and the Donation of these lands , that house of Sandilands gave the coat of the house of Douglas , a Heart , and three mullets , which none else hath besides him , except those of the name of Douglas . This Earle William was bred in France , and as the manuscript beareth , most part in the warres ; his first returne to Scotland was before the battell of Durham some few yeares , which appears by the forenamed Charter given him by his uncle in the year 1342. Touching his actions after his return , the first was a hard entry at the battell of Durham , where the King made many Knights to stirre them up to fight valiantly ; and first he created William Lord Douglas an Earle . In the morning , being Warden , he is sent to view the English Camp , and engaged among them ere he was aware , he had a number of his men slaine , and himselfe also narrowly escaped . In the battell ( being Leader of the Foreward ) he was taken , and the King himselfe likewise , with divers others . But his successe after is more fortunate : for the better understanding whereof , let us remember the estate of affaires of the Countrey of Scotland at that time . After King David Bruce was taken prisoner at the field of Durham , the English repossessed themselves of the Merse , Tivedale , Liddesdale , and Lawderdale : so that their Marches were Cockburnspath and Sawtray , and from that to Carnilops , and the Corse-cave . Balliol had gotten again his old inheritance in Galloway , and wasted Annandale , Nidisdale and Cliddisdale , with fire and sword , and had also with Percie overrun Lowthian : neither could there be an army made up in Scotland to resist him for some few yeares , so that Balliol behaved himselfe again as King : but we heare that no obedience hee got by the good will of the people . The Scots had chosen Robert Stuart ( who was King afterward ) to bee Governour in the Kings absence , but no great action is recorded , that hee was able to take in hand at such a time , and in such estate of his Countrey . The Earle of Douglas being ransomed or dismist , the more easily for that they had the King in their power , returned home . Thereafter there fell out a matter very greatly to bee lamented , that it should have fallen into the hands of so worthy a person , the killing of the Lord of Liddesdale by the Earle : let me never excuse such a fact , I may well bee sory for it . But I wonder at this , that the Earle after his slaughter , should have obtained his whole estate : not onely that which hee did acquire for his owne vertue and valour in the Borders , as Liddesdale with the Sherisship of Roxbrough , or Tweddale , but also those lands which hee had gotten by his wife , as Dalkeith , Newlands , Kilbugho , &c. But being rightly considered it seemes not so strange , for after the Lord of Liddesdale had slain Sir Alexander Ramsay , the King apparantly hath never pardoned from his heart . But being still incensed against him ( as may appeare in that action the King allowed , or rather moved of Sir David Barcklay in taking and slaying Sir John Bullock a speciall friend of the Lord of Liddesdale , and for ill will and spite of him ( say our Writers ) and that his anger being renewed , and increased by the killing of Sir David Barcklay : It is possible the King hath beene well pleased to heare and know of his ruine , whereupon the Earle of Douglas there being none so able to do it as he , being his Chief and kinsman , having his owne particular grudge , was incouraged to make him away , and having done it , hath obtained his lands the more easily . Our Histories testifie that the house and name of Douglas was divided against it self , pursuing each other for many yeares together with much bloudshed , and all upon this occasion . Belike the marriage of the Lord Liddesdales daughter , to Sir James Douglas of Lowden , Kincavell , and Calder-cleere , hath beene or should have been made in his owne time , which hath moved the Douglas of Dalkeith , Calder-cleere , and them of Strabrock to make head against the Earle , as those who did most resent that slaughter . But at last the Earle ( as commonly remorse cometh after bloud ) repenting , or at the intercession of friends , gives the lands of Dalkeith , Newlands , and Kilbugho , to Mary daughter to the Lord of Liddesdale , by resignation in favour of her ( as is extant in our publick Register ) to regain the favour and dependance of his friends , that were alienated from him ; retaining Liddesdale and his other Borderlands and Offices in his owne person : for we finde in the Register James Douglas sonne to William Earle of Douglas , and Marre , stiled Lord of Liddesdale in a letter of pension of 200 marks sterling granted to him by King Robert the first of the Stuarts . His first care was to deliver his own inheritance from the English bondage , for which purpose having gathered together a company of his friends . He recovered Douglasdale from them , having slain and chased them every man out of it : then encouraged with this successe , the favour of his countrey people increasing towards him , and greater companies drawing to him : he expelled them also out of Attrick Forrest and Tueddale , and the greater part of Tivedale . At that time John Copland ( I know not whether it were hee ) that had taken King David at the battell of Durham , or some other of that same name , was Captain of the Castle of Roxbrough , and seeing that the Earle of Douglas did so prevail against his countrey men , gathered together a great company of them , and went forth to oppose him , but was quickly put to flight , and constrained to retire to the said Castle again . Thus having repressed and ejected the English out of those parts of Scotland , he not contented therewith resolveth to invade them in their owne Countrey : wherefore he accompanied with the Earle of March ( his owne father in law ) and having gathered together a great power of men , as privately , and as secretly as hee could , hee marched towards England . They sent VVilliam Ramsay of Dalhousie before , and gave him order to burn Norame , and to spoil the Countrey about , to draw the English upon their hoast , which lay in ambuscade at a place called Nisbet-moore . Ramsay having done his part very dexterously as he was injoyned , having gathered together a great bootie of cattell , made as if hee would drive them into Scotland . The English to recover their goods , pursued him eagerly , and he flying of purpose drew them into the ambushment , where the Scots arising suddenly , set upon them fiercely , and put them to flight with great slaughter . There were taken prisoners , Thomas Gray and his sonne , with John Darcy a Noble man , and many others , even the greatest part of them . After this ( being encouraged by their former successe ) they did enterprise against the towne of Berwick , and took it in by scalade , not without great opposition and resistance , having been discovered by the watches . They had in their company Eugenie Garrantiers , with some fouretie Frenchmen more , whom John King of France had sent into Scotland a little before , with foure thousand crownes to wage souldiers therewith , and this was all excepting fair promises , a weake support in so great a strait ! and let it bee well marked , that men may see how farre they erre from the truth , that alledge that our Countrey and the liberty thereof hath been maintained and upheld by support from France , and not by the valour and industry of the inhabitants . The Nobility tooke the money , and divided it amongst themselves , prosecuting the warre in their owne manner by frequent incursions and inrodes . These fouretie were present at this exploit , and at other occasions where they behaved themselves valorously . It is said by some , that Thomas Stuart Earle of Angus was present at these surprises , and that he had a chiefe hand in it , as being the man that first broached it , and drew the rest to it by his perswasion : But most Authours mention onely the two former . There were slaine within the towne of Berwick , Alexander Ogle , Governour thereof , Thomas Percie brother to the Earle of Northumberland , and Edward Gray with others : but they could not winne the Castle which he held against them : whereupon King Edward coming to rescue it ; they being not able to keep the towne , rifled it , and then burnt it , and razed the walls thereof , in the yeare 1355. King Edward caused repair it again , and while that was in doing , he went himself to Roxbrough , where he kept his residence for that time : Thither came Balliol , and being wearied ( as may be supposed ) of his titular Kingdome , resigned all that hee had , which was a show and pretense to it . The King of England requesting instantly that hee would avenge him of the injuries done to him by the Scots , who would not acknowledge nor obey him , but had expelled him out of his Kingdome : King Edward heard him very willingly , and upon that pretext invaded Lowthian by sea and land : but his Navie was dispersed and broken by storme of weather , and by land the victuall was put out of the way , so as he was constrained to retire home again , after he had powred out his fury upon Edinburgh , Hadington , and other townes in Lowthian which lay in his way . He being gone , the Earle of Douglas passed into Galloway , and partly by force , partly by perswasion and entreatie , hee reduced that whole Countie to the Kings obedience ; and caused Donald Mackdowgall one of the principall men in Galloway , to take his oath of allegiance and fidelitie in the Church of Cumnock . Hollinshed attributeth this to the Lord of Niddisdale his brothers sonne , naturall sonne to the Lord of Galloway : he tooke also by force the Castle of Dalswinton and Carlaverock , and razed them . Some Histories say they were razed by composition , and upon agreement by King David himself after his returne . At this time also John Stuart sonne to Robert the Governour recovers Annandale from the enemy , and Roger Kilpatricke took in Disdeir . And even as before in their Kings minority they had done : so now during his captivitie , these his faithfull subjects made his enemies to reap but small profit of all the pains , having now again delivered this Countrey from them almost every where . Let it be remarked ( as wee said before ) to the end that Kings and Princes may think it the best policy that can bee to procure and entertain the love and heartie affection of his subjects , and more specially of his faithfull Nobilitie . Shortly after this they write , that the Earle of Douglas went into France with 3000. men , and was made Knight of the chiefest order in that Kingdome : he was present at the battell of Poictiers ; where the field being lost , and John King of France taken prisoner by Edward the black Prince ( son to King Edward the third ) the Earle of Douglas escaped very hardly , being rescued by his own men , of whom there was slain Andrew Stuart , Robert Gordon , Andrew Haliburton , and Andrew Vasse Knights . Archbald Douglas , son naturall to good Sir James , and brother to the Lord Liddisdale was taken prisoner , and with him William Ramsay of Colluthie . Archbald was known for a man of qualitie , but the other not known to be a man of any estate , and they perceiving it , the more to deceive their taker , Archbald used him as his serving-man , making him to pul off his boots , and do such other drudgerie , by which means he was set at libertie for a small ransome . Now , as these actions of warre do shew his valour and love to his Countrey , so likewise there fell out an occasion at home in matter of State Policie , which did no lesse manifest his prudencie , magnanimitie , and affection to his native soile ; which was this : King David being returned from his captivity , after he had spent some five years in settling of the troubles and affairs of his Kingdome , after he had fined such as had fled first at the battell of Durham , and composed such broiles and disorders as were amongst his subjects , at last in the year 1363. he kept a Parliament . There he propounded unto the Estates , that they would give way to the uniting of the two Kingdomes of Scotland and England ; and seeing he himself had no children , be contented to give way , that King Edward of England , or his son , might be his Successour . Whether he made this proposition , because he did judge it indeed to be most profitable for both Kingdomes , so to end all their quarrells , and warres , or that he had taken a great liking of the King of Englands son , or else that he had been constrained to promise and sweare to do it by King Edward , when he was in his power , or some other occasion , it is uncertain . But the motion was so ill taken by all that were there present , that they had no patience to stay till every mans vote were asked in his turn , but altogether with one voice did cry out with a confused noise and clamour , detesting it , and protesting , that so long as they were able to bear armes , they would never give their consent thereunto ; that they had one of age to be heir already , whensoever God should call him . Especially the Earle of Douglas took it so to heart , that he entred into League with Robert Stuart Earle of Stratherne , ( who was next heir , and was chiefly prejudiced hereby ) with Patrick Earle of March , George Earle of Murray his brother , John Stuart of Kile , ( afterward Robert the third ) and Robert Stuart of Monteith ( after Duke of Albanie ) to withstand and oppose this businesse to the uttermost of their powers , in case the King should prosecute it , and to desend themselves if he would use violence against them . And they were so forward herein , and went so farre on in it , that it had almost come to an open rebellion . Neither were they reconciled untill the King changed his purpose ; And then by the mediation of the Prelats of the Realm , they desisted , and gave their oath of fidelitie to him again in the year 1366. having been at variance and jealousie the space of two or three years . The English Writers would make it seem to have been but collusion , and that the King did but propound it for exoneration of his promise to King Edward , and was glad of the refusall , for that he was not to labour further in it . But our Histories signifie no such thing , and say directly that he did it sincerely , and was highly offended with the deniall for the time , and that those who had refused , looked for the worst , and set themselves for defence ; yea , that they went so farre , that some of them made incursions upon the towns and villages in the Countrey , to terrifie the King ( saith Major ) and that he might learne to know , that the whole Kingdome did not altogether depend upon him , but upon the good counsell , and mature advice of the Nobility . And Boetius writes , that the convention being dissolved , there followed rebellion of some of the Nobility : whilest they feared that they had offended the King with their free speeches , determining to enterprise and do somewhat before they should be caused to suffer . Such is the force of jealousie when it entereth into mens breasts . And therefore it is to be eschewed with great care , and the occasions thereof cut off betimes : For it cometh often to passe , that upon such suspitions , when neither partie have had an ill meaning , but have been afraid of ill , and sought to prevent it , such inconveniences have followed , as would not have fallen out otherwise . And therefore above all things assurance should be given to Counsellours , and free voters , that in their free delivering of their opinions , they shall not offend there ; or if they do suspect they have offended him , the suspition should be removed betimes , and they put in securitie . And this King David did in this matter , as the most judicious of our Writers say . They that had carried out against it most freely ( saith he ) hearing that the King was angry , were about to have made defection , whose fear when the King understood , he remitting all wrath , received them immediately into favour . By this wise government and modestie on all sides suspition was taken away , and howbeit he was offended for the time , because they did not yeeld to his desire , yet afterward he rejoyced greatly ( as certainly he had great cause ) to see the true and heartie affections of his subjects to their Countrey , to his own bloud , and the house of Bruce , the uprightnesse , sincerity , and magnanimitie ( vertues requisite and necessary for Counsellours ) in resisting even himself for himself , for his own honour and good , which were both greatly interessed by this his desire , if he had obtained it ; being so prejudiciall to his sister , and her off spring , who have happily succeeded yet since , besides the breach of oath to his father , the servitude of his Countrey , subjecting it to strangers , and the stain of his honour for ever , to have been the authour of so unworthie a fact . And without all doubt , it was greatly against the security of his own Person , in regard of the ambition of his designed Successour and Heir ( King Edward ) and his impatiencie to abide Gods leasure , who in a colder hope , had used indirect means to make away Thomas Randulph . What would not that man have attempted for a certain possession ? And what miserable case had the Person of this good King been in , if he had gotten his own will ? if his will had been accounted as a Law by these his subjects ? A notable example to Counsellours , of freedome , where their Princes good , and the good of their Countrey doth require it : to Princes of modestie in opposition made to that which may be their will for a time , and whereunto for the present appearance they may be verie bent . A happy King that can so dispose himself not to be wedded to his own affections onely ! Or if not so , yet happy is hee that hath such Counsellers , who will resolutely remonstrate the right , and stand to it , by which means he may be brought to examine his own affections , to see the errours of them , and rejoyce thereafter that he did not what he most desired . Certainly , this King hath rejoyced at it all the rest of his dayes , living in great quietnesse some foure or five yeares . There was not any grudge , heart-burning or suspition after this between him and any of them : such was the integritie of heart on both sides , and so it should be in reconcilements ; otherwise enmities must be perpetuall , or would be so , if it were not hoped that the reconciliation would bee sincere , and entire . Nay , where it is not so , that peace is worse then any warre , and nothing else but a snare to entrap men . King David died in the Castle of Edinburgh in the Towre which he himself had caused build , and is called from his name Davids Towre , in the yeare 1370. the nine and thirtieth yeare of his reigne , and was buried at Holyrood-house . After his decease there was a Convention of the States at Linlithgow , to have Crowned Robert Stuart son to Marjorie Bruce King Roberts daughter . Thither went the Earle of Douglas , and did claime the Crowne ; where he was so strongly accompanied , that they feared hee would have taken it by force , if it were not given him voluntarily . He alledged that he was to be preferred before Robert Stuart , because his right was derived both from Balliol and Cummin : Now for the better understanding of the ground of his claime , wee must remember that King Alexander the third dying without heires , the title of the Crowne was devolved to David Earle of Huntington , brother to the said Alexanders Grandfather , King VVilliam . This David of Huntington ( as Histories relate ) had three daughters , Margaret , Isabel , and Alda or Ada. The eldest ( Margaret ) was married to Allane Lord of Galloway ; Isabel the second , to Robert Bruce , called commonly Robert the Noble ; the third , Alda or Ada , to Henry Hastings , whose Posteritie doth still yet happily with good report possesse the Earledome of Huntington . This Alane Lord of Galloway had by his wife Margaret ( eldest daughter to David ) two daughters ( as is most commonly reported ) Dornagilla and Mary . Dornagilla his eldest daughter was married to John Balliol , father to that John Balliol who was afterward Crowned King of Scotland . Mary his second daughter was married to John Cummin Earle of Marre , and ( by her ) Lord of Galloway , called Read John Cummin slain by King Robert Bruce at Dumfrees . Some write that this Alane had three daughters , and that the eldest was married to one Roger Earle of Winton , of whom seeing we have no mention in pretension to the Kingdome , it is apparent that either there hath been no such woman , or that she hath died without children . Buchanan sayes he had three daughters at his death in the life of Alexander the second . Also Boetius ( in his thirteenth book , fol. 294. ) saith the same , and calleth this man Roger Quincie Earle of Winton , who ( saith he ) was made Constable for his father in law Alane , and continued in that Office untill the dayes of King Robert Bruce , and then being forfeited for treason , the Office of Constable was given to Hay Earle of Arrall : hee sayes also that John Cummin did not marry one of Alanes daughters , but one of this Quincies Earle of Winton , who had married the said Alanes eldest daughter , which is carefully to bee marked . Hollinshed sayes the same in his Chronicle of Scotland , and calleth him Roger Quincie . John Cummin had by Mary his wife one onely daughter , called Dornagilla , who was married to Archbald Douglas slain at Halidon hill , father to this Earle William , of whom wee now speake ; whereby hee was Grandchild to Mary , and great Grandchilde to Margaret ( David of Huntingtons eldest daughter ) and by consequent reckoning from David of Huntington his daughter , 1 Margaret , 2 her daughter Mary , 3 Martes daughter , 4 this Earle William is the fourth person . On the other side , for Robert Stuart , reckoning likewise from the said David of Huntington ; his daughter 1 Isabel , her sonne , 2 Robert Bruce Earle of Carrict , 3 his sonne King Robert , 4 his daughter Marjory . 5 her sonne Robert Stuart is the fifth person , which is a degree further then the Earle of Douglas , who was in equall degree with Marjory his mother . This reckoning is not unlike that whereby Robert Earle of Carrict did claim it before when he contended with Balliol ; for Bruce was a Male and a degree neerer , equall with Balliols mother , and this Earle was also the Male , and a degree neerer then Stuart , equall with his Mother ; and besides all this , he was come of the eldest of Davids daughters , which Bruce was not . This was the ground of his claim ; but finding his pretension evill taken , and disliked by all the Nobility , and disputing that which had been decided long before in favour of King Robert Bruce , who had been confirmed King , and to whom Balliol had renounced whatsoever right he could claim ; to whom also and to his posterity they all , and Earle Williams owne predecessours , had sworn obedience , and continued it the whole time of his life , and of his sonne David the space of 64. yeares . To which Robert Bruce , and not to David of Huntington , Robert Stuart was to succeed ; wherefore the Earles chiefest friends George and John Dumbars , Earles of March and Murray , his brothers in law by his first wife , and Robert Ereskene his assured friend , keeper of the three principall Castles in Scotland , Dumbartan , Stirlin and Edinburgh , disswaded him from it : And so he was contented to desist , and joyning very willingly with the rest of the Nobilitie , accompanied him to Scone , and assisted at his Coronation ; being no lesse acceptable and commended for his modest acquiescing , then he had been before displeasing for his unseasonable motion . For the which in token of his good will , and that hee might so much the more tie the Earle to him , the new King bestowes two very honourable gifts upon him : His eldest daughter Euphane on the Earles son James , that failing heires Male , the Crowne might so fall to his house . The other benefit was bestowed upon the Earle himselfe , the marriage of Margaret Stuart Countesse of Marre and Angus , daughter and heire to Earle Thomas : This Countesse of Marre and Angus did beare to this Earle , George Earle of Angus , that was married to one of King Robert the thirds daughters ; as we shall see in the house of Angus . It is knowne that these two lived after from thenceforth in good friendship , as Prince and Subject without suspition , grudge , or eye list on either partie ; for neither did the King remember it as an aspiring , whereby to hold a continuall suspicious eye over him ; neither did he feare the King as jealous of it , or as esteeming that he had suffered vvrong in the repulse , nor seekking any means to prosecute it further , laying aside all quarrells vvith the cause in sinceritie on both sides . This should be the practice of all honest hearts , and is the onely mean to end all debates , entertain peace , and keepe humane society : farre contrary to this novv called vvisedome of dissidence , distrust , jealousie , curbing and keeping under those vvith vvhom vvee have had any difference , vvhich is the onely vvay to foster variance , and to make enmitie eternall . For trust deserveth truth , and moves a man to deserve that trust , and to be vvorthy of it . Time vvins and allures even the wildest minds of men , and also of beasts , even of fierce lions , if it bee not a monster in nature , or worse then a monster , one amongst a thousand , which is the onely true and solid policie , that makes the hearts of men ours ; for men must be led by their hearts , and by no other way , and so imployed , or else let no man thinke ever to make any great use of them . King Robert after his Coronation made divers Earles and Barons ( or Lords ) and Knights ; amongst whom James Lindsay of Glenaske was made Earle of Crawford . This same yeare the peace with England was broken , which had been made with King David at his releasing from captivitie for foureteene yeares , and had now continued not above foure or five yeares onely . The occasion of it was this : there is a yearely Faire in Roxbrough , and some of the Earle of Marches servants going thither , were slain by the English that kept the Castle thereof . When the Earle of March craved justice , and could not obtain it , the next yeare when the Faire day came again , hee having gathered a sufficient power of men , invaded the Towne , slew all the Males of any yeares , and having rifled it , and taken a great spoil and booty , he burnt it to the ground . We reade that a good while after this , the Earle of Northumberland and Nottingham set forward toward Scotland with an army of three thousand men at armes , and seaven thousand archers , and sent forth Sir Thomas Musgrave with three hundreth speares , and three hundreth archers to Melrosse , to trie what hee could learne of the Scots in those parts , with whom the Earle of Douglas encountring , tooke Sir Thomas himself , a hundreth and twentie prisoners , besides those that were slain . The same yeare ( 1380. ) the Earle Douglas entred England with twentie thousand men , and went to the Faire of Pennure ; and having taken all the goods that were there , he burnt the Towne . Hollinshed in his English Chronicle speaking of that journey ( in all likelihood ) saith they brought away fouretie thousand cattell , and were assaulted by the way , but came into Scotland with the prey , having lost some few of their men ; he sayes the occasion of it was , because the men of Newcastle had taken a Scottish ship well known to be a Pirate , but very rich , worth seaventy thousand pound , whereat the Scots being angry , and offended , made this incursion . About this time the Earle of Douglas intreateth for mercy to James Lindsay Earle of Crawford , who had been banished a certain time before for killing of John Lyon , sonne in law to the King , and Chancellour ( as some call him ) or Secretary as others : hee was the first of the name of Lyon , of whom the house of Glammes is descended . This Lyon was a young man endued with all the naturall gifts of body and minde that could be . Hee was comely in personage , well bred , and of a good carriage , & winning behaviour , which made him to be wel liked of of all men , and in speciall by this James Lindsay , who received him into his traine , and made him his Secretarie . By this occasion being often at Court , the King tooke notice of him , and liking his deportment , and upon Crawfords commendation , tooke him into his service , and made him his Domestick Secretary . It fell so out at last , that the Kings daughter ( by Elizabeth Moore ) fell in love with him , and was made with childe by him ; which he revealed to the Earle of Crawford . The Earle fearing that the King would take the matter heavily and hainously , and use the young man hardly , devised this way for his safetie : hee causeth another Gentleman of his acquaintance to take the blame on him , and to absent himselfe as guilty ; and then being very familiar with the King , deals with him to bestow his daughter ( seeing shee had thus falne ) on John Lyon , and to give him the lands of Glams with her ; which was done accordingly . He got also for his coat of Armes , the flowre de-luce , field argent , and a Lion azure , with a double treasure , and a womans head for his Crest . What unthankfulnesse the Earle of Crawford did finde in him afterwards , or did apprehend and conceive , it is not particularly set downe ; but finding his owne credit with the King to decrease , and John Lyons to increase , and taking Lyon to be the cause thereof , esteeming it great ingratitude after so great benefits he tooke it so highly , and with such indignation , that finding him accidentally in his way a little from Forfaire , he slew him very cruelly , and fearing the Kings wrath , fled into a voluntary exile : and so he remained certain yeares , until ( at the Earle of Douglas intercession ) the King suffered himself to be so farre entreated , as that he was restored , obtained pardon , and received into the Kings favour . What interest the Earl of Douglas had in it , and what friendship with the Earl of Crawford , or what pitie of his afflicted estate , or commiseration of him ; or weighing the cause that drew him to so hard a fact ( as great men will regard one another , where they think they have been evill requited by them to whom they have been beneficiall ) or how necessary the presence of so worthy a man was for the King and Countries present estate , it is hard to conjecture : but this is cleare , that the Earle of Douglas hath beene not a little respected and accounted of at that time , seeing at his sute the King consented to forgive the murther of his owne sonne in Law , and to receive the Authour thereof into favour . The yeare following , ( which was 1381. ) there ensued a truce between the two Countries for three yeares . There met for concluding of this truce John of Gant Duke of Lancaster , who was Uncle to King Richard the second , with some other Lords of the English side : and for the Scots , the Earle of Douglas and March. In the very time of their meeting and treatie , both parties were informed of the insurrection made by Jack Straw in England , and both dissembled the matter untill the truce were agreed upon . Then when all was ended , the Earle of Douglas with a generous wisedome ( farre from that which is now in vogue and request ) addrest himself to the Duke of Lancaster , and told him , that from the very first beginning of their conference , hee was not ignorant in what estate the affaires in England were ; but that they were so farre from catching hold of any advantage of the time , and from making either of peace or warre accordingly , that they had the rather consented to the truce , because of the troubles in England . And for your selfe ( saith he ) if it please you , you may remain here in Scotland , untill these tumults bee setled , or if you had rather return home , you shall have 500. horse to accompany you , and to set you safe in what place in England you please . The Duke thanked them for their courtesie , but thinking that hee needed it not at that time , made no use of either of their offers . But afterwards being on his journey home , when he found that they shut the gates of Berwick against him , and would not receive him into the Towne , he came backe againe , and was conveyed to Haliroodhouse by the Earle of Douglas and his brother Archbald Lord of Galloway , and remained there till matters were composed in England . After the truce was expired , Archbald Lord of Galloway , assisted by his brother the Earle of Douglas , and by the Earle of March , wonne the Castle of Lochmabane , as we shall heare in the life of the said Archbald . Upon this the Duke of Lancaster by way of revenge made an incursion upon Scotland , in which having rifled Edinburgh , and wasted the Countrey , he returned home . And he being gone , the Earle of Douglas tooke in all the Castles and houses of strength in Tivedale , which the English had kept since the battell of Durham , Roxbrough onely excepted , and purged that Countrey of Brigands and Robbers , who had in time of the warre beene very licentious and bold . This was the last work of this Nobleman , worthy ( say our Writers ) of his house and Predecessours , for he died soone after of a Fever in the Castle of Douglas , and was buried in Melrosse in the Abbey , in the year 1384. as they reckon , and is likely : for his sonne James is stiled Earle in the yeare 1385. March 20. Of what age he was at his death it cannot be certainly collected : but from his fathers death at Halidoun hill we have 51 yeares after he began to come upon the stage , and appeare in businesse , and the affaires of his Countrey : 30. yeares at least or 40. since we account that he came home before the battell of Durham . He was a man ( without question ) of exceeding great valour , whom even the English Writers spare not to call one of the most valiant personages in his dayes , within the Realme of Scotland : And certainly his actions beare no lesse , even as they are summarily set downe . But if all had beene particularly described , with the full circumstances , it would have beene farre more cleare . And not onely his valour would have appeared , but his wisedome also , travell , and diligence , which he must needs have used in recovering of so many Countreyes and Castles , as he is recorded to have wonne , and in so many yeares , as he was employed in continuall action , ever victorious , without mention of any repulse , overthrow , or evill successe , where himselfe was Conductor , and we may say , nor elsewhere , safe at the battell of Durham . Now all is involved in generall , and rowled up in grosse , expressing little or nothing of the accidents , or particular wayes of his exploits , onely they tell us this road he made , and these Castles he wonne , and tell the event indeed to have beene successefull , but no more . This good fortune ( as men call it ) though it be commended , and commendable in Leaders , yet it is seldome alone , but accompanied with vertue , to which it gives the lustre , and without which he could never have atchieved such enterprises . The love he carried to his Countrey , and to the libertie thereof , needs no declaration . Those his travells declare it , which could have no other end , chiefly that act of withstanding King David in bringing in a forraine King , with such resolution , even to the discontentment of his Soveraign , to whom otherwayes he had beene ever most obedient , with the hazzarding of his person and estate . In which opposition , if we weigh it narrowly , how many vertues doe appeare ? An unspeakable love to his Countrey , with such hazzard , freedome of minde , and uprightnesse farre from flatterie , or any dissimulation ; not following his Princes humour , or soothing him in his present disposition , but regarding vvhat vvas most for his good and honour , vvhat best for his Countrey , and vvhat the King vvas like to acknovvledge best for him , vvhen he should be out of that fit . We may also see in it a strange magnanimitie and courage , in his resolving ( as he did vvithout all doubt ) to part vvith all that the vvorld could affoord , and vvhatsoever is deare to men in the vvorld , rather then not to maintaine that vvhich he accounted to be right , his life , lands , dignities , honours , and all such things , both for himselfe and his posteritie . For what was that banding for it , but a plaine opposing himselfe to the power of both the Kings ( Scottish and English ) the Suiter , and for whom it was suited ; who questionlesse would both have concurred in that cause : and what could the consequent of opposing then be other , then the losse of his life , lands , and all ? or what other hope could he have ? and what meanes to double it out ? The more is his constancie remarkable that never yeelded up that disposition . As for his wisedome , it is included in all these things , and doth shine in all his actions , which without it could not have beene performed . Likewise in that favour which was borne unto him by men , the causes of favour are employed , and such qualities and vertues are apt to gaine and procure affection , to wit , gentlenesse , meeknesse , sobernesse , liberality , and the like ; his generosity and courteous humility in his speech , which are the true and onely meanes of acquiring the good will and hearts of men : his generous minde and courteousnesse appeared in his speech and carriage towards the Duke of Lancaster , his justice in pacifying the Countrey , and purging out the theeves : a worthy catastrophe of so well an acted life . Some may think him ambitious in standing for the Crowne , but if he thought he had right , what could he doe lesse ? it was no ambition to seek what was his due . And there was as great appearance of right on his side , as might have deceived a better Lawer than he was . Yet let it be his ambition , and that he was not so ignorant but that he knew where the title was : have not many dispenced with great duties in that case ? And is it not thought halfe dutie , not to be over precise in dutie ; and half justice , not to look too narrowly to justice ? Si violandum est jus , &c. If law or lawfulnesse should be broken , where should it rather be broken , then for a Kingdome ? which is not so much the saying of one man , as the tacite opinion of almost all men , as appeares by the approbation of themselves , and all others after they have gotten it . It were to be wished that errour were away , and men saw as well the inward thornes , as the outward pearles of the Diademe , that they might let it lye at their foot , and not take it up , though they might have it for the lifting : but that will be called a Stoicall Philosophy , and even the Stoicks are thought to have much adoe to keepe themselves in that moderation . Neither doe men beleeve them when they say they doe it in lesser matters , where they may attaine them : and what they lack is thought to be for want of power and dexteritie to compasse and obtaine , not of judgement to contemne or neglect . What could the Earle Douglas then doe , who was not so well school'd or skill'd ? who had honour and glory for the great objects of his intentions , which is the objects of these great spirits , and many think it should be so . So that in regard of this common opinion of men , and the instructions of that age , yea of all ages , even of this age almost , in such military men , or politicke wise men , who are not pedants ( as they call them ) or Theologues ( to give them the best name men terme them with ) I thinke it not so strange that he insisted , as I marvell that he desisted so soone , and easily : neither can I so much dispraise his motion , as I have reason to commend his modestie . For his motion , belike , hath not beene immodestly moved , or too vehemently pressed , that he gave it soone over ; farre from the unbridlednesse of turbulent mindes , that would rather have moved heaven and earth ( as we say ) to have come to their purpose , and have cast themselves , their Countrey , and all , into confused broillerie and into forraine hands and power : nay ( which is more and worse then meerely forraine ) into English , our enemies , which would be flat slaverie , as both the Balliols ( John and Edward ) had done before him , and the last of them on no better , nay not so good a ground . Wherefore if we will needs call it ambition , yet certainly it hath not beene of the worst sort thereof , neither unruly , nor immoderate , but by the contrary , very sober and temperate , and such as may well fall , and often doth fall into the best and greatest spirits , that are not brought up and deeply instructed in the inmost and profound points of humane and divine Philosophie Of which sort how few be there ? and how meanly are they accounted of ? Let us either think better of them , or finde the lesse fault with him . Certainly , if he cannot be fully excused , yet can he not be over hardly censured , neither condemned : yea , no more condemned for the moving , then praised for his speedy leaving off , and yeelding , truly acquiescing , and sincerely obeying in all times thereafter . Of James , the second of that name , the eleventh Lord , and second Earle of Douglas , slaine at Otterburne . UNto William the first Earle his son James did succeed , a man in all kinde of vertue worthy of so great a father , and honourable place ; who was no whit inferiour to him either in courage or fortunatenesse , unlesse we account him lesse fortunate for that he lived but few yeares : wherefore wee shall heare his owne judgement at his death . He had two wives , Euphane eldest daughter to the King ( as we have said ) by his wife the Earle of Rosses daughter : yet the genealogie of the Kings in the Acts of Parliament sayes that she was daughter to Elizabeth Moore , and not the Earle of Rosses daughter . He had a son by her , who lived not halfe a yeare : he had also two base sons , William ( of whom is descended the house of Drumlanrig , as evidents do witnes given by Jacobus Douglas Comes de Douglas silto nostro ) and Archbald of whom is come the house Cavers and Sheriffes of Tivedale , who if they had beene lawfull , had been sonnes to the Kings daughter , and had succeeded to the Earledome before his brother Archbald the Grimme , who did succeed to him . But though they did not succeed , yet have they shewed themselves very worthy , and amongst the chief great men of the land . Of this William also are descended the houses of Coshogle , Pinyerie , Daveine , and others in Niddisdale : for Archbald Douglas the first of Coshogle , was second sonne to this William of Drumlanrigge , and was married to one Pringle of the house of Galasheiles , who bore to him twelve sonnes , and after his death shee was married to one Carnel Wallace , and bore twelve more to him also . Touching Earle James his actions , which were done in his fathers daies , one thing we have spoken of them in his fathers life , as most proper : there is one thing more , besides what hath been said , recorded of him by some ; that during his fathers life he was sent into France , for renewing the ancient League with that Kingdome ; in which Ambassage were joyned with him Walter Wardlaw , Cardinall and Bishop of Glasgow , and his Uncle Archbald , Lord of Galloway . This is said to have been in the yeare 1381. which is the eleventh yeare of the reigne of Robert Stuart . The occasion of it was a message that came out of France from Charles the sixth , who desired to have it so . After his returne in September , hee recovered the towne of Berwick from the English ; and entring England with a competent power , burnt and spoyled all the Countrey about as farre as Newcastle . About the time of his fathers decease ( in the yeare 1384. ) there was a Truce concluded between France and England , to last a yeare , in which Scotland was also comprehended . This treatie was at Boloigne , or at Lillegham ( as others write ) and for intimation hereof , some French men were directed to come into Scotland : but while they prepare themselves too negligently , the Earles of Northumberland and Nottingham , with such as lay nearest to the Scottish Marches , laying hold of this opportunitie to annoy Scotland , so that the Scots should have no time to revenge it before the truce were proclaimed , entered Scotland with an Army of 20000. or ( as others say ) 10000. horse , and 6000. Archers and Bowmen , and spoyled the Countrey farre and wide ; especially the lands pertaining to the Douglasses , and Lindsayes . The Scots who trusting to the brute of the truce dreamed of no such thing , finding themselves thus used , were greatly grieved with their owne sloth , and no lesse incensed at the fraud and falsehood of England , and resolved to avenge the same . In the mean time the report of the English incursion coming to the eares of the French , who had the charge to intimate the assurance , admonished them of their slownesse : wherefore to make amends ( though somewhat too late ) they hasten over to London in the very time that the English Army was in Scotland . There they were very chearefully received , and magnificently entertained with feasting and banquetting , and under this colour cunningly detained , untill it was knowne that the English Army was come home and dismissed : then being suffered to depart , they came into Scotland , and shew their Commission . The greatest part of the Nobility , but chiefly the Earle of Douglas and such as with him had received great losse by that expedition , cried out against the craft of the English , that this their fraud and manifest ludification was no way to be suffered . The King went about to pacifie them , and shewed plainly that hee meant to receive and keep the truce , which they perceiving , drew out the matter at length by reasoning and arguing to and fro , untill such time as they had gathered together quietly 15000. horsemen ; then Douglas , Dumbarre and Lindsay , withdrew themselves from Court without noise , at a day appointed ; and joyning their companies at the place of rendevous , enter England with displayed banners , waste and spoile Northumberland to Newcastle . Then they doe the like to the Earle of Nottinghams lands , and the Mowbrayes , and so returne home with a huge prey of men and cattell . Straight after their returne the truce was proclaimed meeting fraud , not with fraud , but with open force , by a just and honest re●…ompence and retalliation . Neither were the English discontented for all this to accept the truce , acknowledging that the Scots had reason to doe what they did , or confessing their owne weaknesse and want of ability to avenge it at this time , or both , by their sitting still and acceptation : for neither could right ( though weake ) have had patience in so great an injury , neither would force ( if it had thought it selfe sufficient ) have been bridled with reason onely in so manifest an affront , and so great dammage . How ever it be , they stirred not , and so the truce was kept till it expired of it selfe . When it was runne out , John de vienne a Burgundian , a very valiant man , Admirall of France , and Earle of Valentinois , arrived in Scotland , and brought with him 2000. men , amongst whom were 100. men at Armes . He brought also 400. Curiasses , and 400. halfe long swords to be distributed amongst the Scots , and ( as some write ) 50000. Crownes . Before their coming James Earle of Douglas entred into England with a new Armie ; and upon their arrival was called back to Court , where they attended his coming . Then having consulted of their businesse , and the Army being ready , they accompanied him into England , where they tooke in the Castles of Wark , Foord and Cornewall , and spoyled and burnt the Country between Berwick and New castle . But when they intended to goe on further , the continuall rain that fell in great abundance ( being in Autumne ) did so spoile the wayes , and raise the waters , and wet the Souldiers with their armour , that they were forced to retire home again into Scotland . In the mean time King Richard greatly moved that the Scots must bring in strangers to waste his Countrey , entereth Scotland with an Army of 60000. foot , and 8000. horse , and used all sort of Hostilitie in the Merse and Lowthian , not sparing the religious houses and persons , such as Newbotle , Melrosse and Dribrough , with the Monkes thereof . The French Admirall better remembring , and more carefull of his Masters directions , then considering what was fit to bee done , dealt earnestly with the Earle of Douglas to give him battell . But the Earle knowing better , and regarding more the good of his Countrey , and weighing with judgement the English power and forces , would no wayes listen to him : he told him it was not for want of affection to doe the King of France service that he refused to fight , but in respect of the unequall number and appointment of the Armies at that time . And that he might the better see the English forces , he tooke him up to a hill , from whence they might have a reasonable view of them as they passed by in order ; which when the Admirall had seen , and considered thereof , hee easily yeelded to the Earles opinion . Hollinshed setteth downe the oddes , saying , that the Scots and French were not above 8000. speares , and 30000. of all other sorts , and the most part of those not well armed : where he reckoneth of English 6000. horse , and 60000. Archers , which are 2000. horses fewer then our Histories do reckon . In this inequalitie therefore being no lesse a wise Conductour , then a valiant Warriour , he resolved not to hazard a battell , but determined to take another course , which he did , for he entered England on that quarter , which was furthest distant from the English Army , and wasted Cumberland and the adjacent Countrey neare to it . The King of England being advertised hereof , purposed to have followed him , and forced him to fight , but being better advised , and put in mind ( no question ) of what had befallen his Grandfather ( Edward the third ) at Stanhope Parke against good Sir James , he altered his purpose , and marched the readiest way home . And so both Armies having spoiled and wasted each others Countreyes , they returned without encountring or fight of other . In the return the Earle Douglas perswaded them to besiege Roxbrough Castle , making full account that the King of England would not raise a new Army before the next Spring , and so they sat downe before it ; but it did not continue eight dayes ere they raised the siege . The cause was a reasonlesse demand of the Frenchmen , who would needs have the Castle to bee given to them , and to belong to the King of France , when it were wonne from the enemy . This demand did so offend the Scots , that they could by no means heare of it , and so the enterprise was deserted upon this occasion , but chiefly by the Frenchmens insolent and licentious behaviour and carriage in the warres ; who rob and steal , and use all manner of force and violence : there arose many times great strise , and many quarrells between the Country people , and them : for the Country people watched them when they were alone , or but few together , and sometimes robbed them of their horses , sometimes of their valises and luggage : sometimes they hurt , and at other times slew of them . The French Commanders complained to the Kings Councell , and the common people answered , that they had received more losse and hurt by the French , who professed themselves to be friends , then they had done by the English , who were sworne enemies . And therefore they said it were reason that the French should no wayes be suffered to goe home , untill they had satisfied for the wrongs they had done . The Earle Douglas in this hard case seeing they were strangers that came to aide Scotland , was willing partly to bear with their faults , as proceeding from an evill custome and form used at home in France , and therefore interposed himself to have mitigated the people , but could hardly pacifie them , yet at last with great instancy and entreatie , being greatly favoured , and generally well beloved and popular , hee obtained that the common Souldiers , and the Army should be suffered to returne into France , and that their Captains and Commanders should be retained still untill satisfaction were made for the losse they had sustained . And so the King of Frances desire was satisfied , who had then sent for them , and withall order taken with the dammage done by them . This was the aide , and this was the successe of the help received from France now the second time . It was very small before , and it is now to very little purpose : more hurtfull and troublesome to the Countrey , then of importance against the enemy . After their embarking the Scots remained still in England the space of two moneths , and then the English having withdrawne and conveighed all the victuall out of the way , they returned into Scotland . And hereby they did show clearly how little they leaned to forrain aid , without which there greater enterprises were ever performed : neither was there ever either by these , or by others before or since ( though we looke over all Histories ) any great exploit atchieved . All the help they ever got was onely in the besieging of some Townes at some happening times , and some such trifles scarce worth the naming , in respect of the whole power of the body and state of the Countrey which I remark again , and commend to the Reader to be truely considered for vindicating the valour and worth of the inhabitants , from that obloquie and unequall judgement of such as diminish and impair it : who cannot but know that it was never forraine forces ( as is wrongfully surmised ) but the vertue and valour of their Predecessours that hath preserved the honour and liberty of their Countrey , all manner of wayes : and that any one man amongst diverse of the name of Douglas hath done more in that cause , then the force of France ( if it were put all together ) did ever to this houre . The yeare following , the Earle of Douglas with Robert Stuart Earle of Fise , and Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway his Uncle , entered into England with an Army of three thousand men , passing the water of Solway so secretly , that they were at Cocket-mouth on such a sudden , that the people had no leasure to convey their goods out of the way . Wherefore having for the space of three dayes gathered together a rich bootie , they returned home through Cumberland , Westmerland , and Northumberland , into Scotland again without any encounter . Not long after Archbald Lord of Galloway in company of the same Earle of Fise , made a road into England , in revenge whereof the King of England sent an Army into Scotland , which did great harm in the Merse , and occasioned that notable battell of Otterburn . For the Scots irritated herewith boyled with desire of revenge , being at that time very flourishing with strong youth , and never better furnished with Commanders . But King Robert a man by nature given to quietnesse , ●…arre stricken in yeares ( seaventy three yeares old ) was become slacker , and seemed not to make so great account of the publique injuries . His eldest sonne John was dull of nature , and having received a hurt by a stroake of a horse , which pertained to James Douglas Lord of Dalkeith , was thereby lame of a legge , and halted , and so unfit for the travell of warre . Therefore they have their recourse to the Kings next sonne the Earle of Fife , and do easily agree with him , resolving to avenge the hurt and dammage they had lately received . So every man promising his best endeavour , appointment is made to conveen in August , or ( as some say ) in July , but so covertly , as it should not come to the knowledge of either of the two Kings , lest the King of Scotland should hinder them , or the King of England prevent them : yet when they had used all the expedition and secresie they could : The English had notice of it , and were informed of both the day and place of their meeting . Wherefore that they might entrap them and take them at unawares , they advertised one another , and the Noblemen commanded the Commons to be in a readinesse against the next advertisement , without appointing any certain day , for feare that the Scots should heare of it . These things thus ordered when they heard that the Scots were conveened in Tivedale not farre from the March to the number of 30000. or ( as Froysard saith ) 40000. men , not daring to joyne battell with such a multitude , they concluded not to stir or appeare before the coming of the enemy , but that every man should ramain in his owne bounds , till they saw on what coast and quarter the tempest would light , and then to take the best course they could according as occasion should offer , and if they could doe no more , to invade Scotland on another hand farre from the enemy , as the Scots had done to them the yeare before , and so to recompense losse with losse : In the mean time they sent a spie to the Scots camp , who might bring them more certain report of all things ; desirous to know not onely their intention , but even their particular speeches and actions . Hee who was sent ( being nothing different from the rest in language , apparell , or armour , did easily passe for a Scot , and by that mean having been in the company undiscovered , and having observed sufficiently all that was needfull to be knowne ) as he returned to his horse to be gone , which he had bound to a tree , he found that he was taken away , whereupon taking him to his feet with his cloake , boots and spurres , and his other riding equipage ; he was perceived , suspected , taken and examined what he was , whence he came , and whither hee went : and being found to vary in his answers , hee was brought before the Generall of the Army , where being threatned with the rack , he confessed all , and revealed the English mens intentions , and purposes . Upon this the Scots altered their purpose , and whereas they were before minded to have gone all together in one Hoast , they now divided themselves in two ; so that the greatest part of the Army should passe in at Carlile , led by the Kings two sonnes , the Earles of Fife and Stratherne , together with Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway , Uncle to the Earle . The other part of the Army was committed to the Earle of Douglas , and with him George and John Dumbars Earles of March and Murray ( his Uncles ) William or James Lindsay Earle of Crawford , the Earle of Arolle Constable , the Lord Montgomry , and Patrick Hepburn of Hales with his sonne : the number of his company is not agreed upon . Some say that he had the halfe of the Army , 15000. others but 2000. foote , and 300. horse , with as many foote men waiting on the horse men , who were lightly armed and able to fight , and almost equalling the horse men in speedy expedition . Some say they were foure thousand chosen horsemen in all , which is most apparent by the great diligence and haste he made : with his company he entred England on the East hand , and crossing the river of Tine with great celerity , hee was past Durham , before ever the enemy was advertised or knew of his coming , till he himselfe made it knowne by fire and smoake , in burning the Countrey . The Earle of Northumberland hearing of him , himselfe being a man of great yeares , sent his two sonnes Henrie and Ralph ( hardy and valiant young men ) to Newcastle , commanding the rest of the Countrey also to resort thither , that they might intercept the Earle of Douglas in his returne : but hee having spoyled the Countrey about Durham , and gotten a great bootie , passeth Tine again , about three miles above Newcastle ; and being desirous of glory , and encouraged by this successe , esteeming it but small honour for him to spoil the villages , and not to dare to looke upon the townes , marched towards Newcastle , and did make offer to have assaulted it , and ( as some write ) did assault it , having first filled the ditches with hay and faggots , hoping thereby to have drawne out the enemy to the open fields , having stayed there two dayes ; there passed some light skirmishes amongst them every day : And at last , Henrie Percie eldest sonne to the Earle of Northumberland ( called Hotspurre ) being desirous to trie his valour , either provoking the Earle Douglas , or provoked by him ; the combate was offered , and accepted betwixt them . They mounted on two faire steeds , and ran together with sharp ground spears at outrance ; in which encounter the Earle Douglas bore Percie out of his saddle . But the English that were by did rescue him so that hee could not come at himself , but he snatched away his spear with his guiddon or witter ; and holding it aloft , and shaking it , he cried out aloud , that hee would carry that into Scotland as his spoil . Hollinshed saith ( out of Froysard ) that they did not runne on horseback , but that in an assault at the Barriers without the gate , Douglas by chance being matched hand to hand with Percie , by force pluckt his Pennon from him , and holding it up on high , said , he would carry it for his sake into Scotland . There was then at Newcastle a great number of people , for besides the indwellers , there were all the choice men from York to the borders , as the Writers relate . Wherefore Earle Douglas ( in respect of his small number ) caused keep strait watch ; and on the morrow removing his Camp , he marched toward Scotland a slow pace , being loden with bootie . Then sending it away before , hee assaulted , tooke , and demolished a certain Castle and Towne , that was in their way , called Pouclane , whereof Sir Aymer of Alpholl was Lord , whom he tooke within the Castle and made him a prisoner . Then marching forward , they came to a place called Otterburn , about twelve miles from Newcastle , where they pitched downe their tents , that the Souldiers might take some rest , and refresh themselves after their great travell , as not having rested that day , nor the night before , nor much any where since their entrie into England . There they consulted about the rest of their journey , and the most part advised to march toward Carlile , that they might joyne with the other Army , that so they might observe the order given them , which was not to fight at all , till both Hoasts were joyned together . But the Earle Douglas thought best to stay there some three or four daies that they might refell the Percies bragging , who had affirmed that they should not carry his speare into Scotland , and that the Souldiers might not be idle the while , they might be taking in the Castles , and Gentlemens houses about , that lay neare . To this opinion the others did yeeld for his sake , howsoever it seemed not to be the most expedient : so they fortified and strengthned their Camp as well as they could on that side where it was weake , being fensed with Marishes on the other side : they went and besieged a certain Castle , called Combure . Percie would fain have followed them presently upon their retreat , but he was hindered by the better advised , for fear of an ambush : for they thought it was not likely , that the Scots being so fevv in number vvould have assaulted so strong a Towne , unlesse they had knovvne of some greater povver to succour and aid them . Having therefore searched diligently that day , and the next , and understanding that the other great Army wat not to bee feared , as being far from the Earle Douglas ; Percie marched towards him with 10000. strong , not staying for the Bishop of Durham , who was said to be at Newcastle that same night , esteeming his present forces sufficient to overthrow his enemies , who were fewer in number by the one halfe at least . The avantcurriers of the English Hoast were come in sight , whilest the Scots were some at supper , and others gone to rest , being wearied with assaulting the Castle . Hereupon the alarum was given , and the English approaching , assail them fiercely , and were received valiantly by a part of the footemen , and the lackies , and the groomes ; who having the advantage of the Fortification which had been made , sustained the charge till the rest were armed and ready . At their first encamping when they viewed the fields , they had espied a little hill which they meant to make use of if the enemy should follow and assaile them , ( as they did certainly expect ) and now it stood the horsemen in very good stead : for whiles the English assaulted the entrie of the Camp , the horse men fetching a compasse about this hill , charged them in flank at the farre side , in which charge many were slain , and the whole Army was filled with tumult and fears . But by the coming of fresh supplies , the English abounding in number , the battell was restored , and their ranks ordered as before : yet this profit it brought to the Scots , that the fight being slaked at the entrie of the Camp , they had space to go forth , and to put their men in array . In the mean time night drew on , which was troublesome , and unwelcome to both ; but being short ( as in the Northern parts it useth to be in July ) and the season faire , the Moon light did serve them in stead of Day light , and the fight was continued very hard as amongst noble men on both sides , who did esteem more of glory , then life . Percie strove to repair the foil he had gotten at Newcastle , and the Earle Douglas did as much labour to keep the honour he had wonne : So in unequall number , but both equally eager in mind , they continued fighting a great part of the night . At last a Cloud covering the face of the Moone , not being able to discerne friend from foe , they tooke some respite for a while ; but so soone as the Cloud was gone , the English gave so hard a charge , that the Scots were put back in such sort , that the Douglas Standard was in great perill to have been lost . This did so irritate him , that hee himselfe in the one wing , and the two Hepburnes ( father and sonne ) in the other , pressing through the rankes of their owne men , and advancing to the place where the greatest perill appeared , renewed a hard conflict , and by giving and receiving many wounds , they restored their men into the place from whence they had been beaten , and continued the fight untill the next day at noone . The Earle Douglas not being satisfied , nor contenting himselfe with that , that he had renewed the battell , but himselfe with two companions , Robert Hart , and Simon Glendining , rushed into the midst of the enemies , and equalling the courage of his minde with the strength of his body , whatsoever way he set himself he made great havock of the enemies . It was a wonder to see the great vassallage that he wrought : Major in describing them can make no end , nor satisfie himselfe : his comparisons are high , like a Lion of Lybia : his description of his body is , that it was faire and well compacted , his strength huge , which hee yet amplifieth with greater hugenesse , saying that he fought with a Mace of iron , which two ordinary men were not able to lift , which notwithstanding hee did weild easily , making a great lane round about him wheresoever hee went : his courage and confidence appeareth in his so valiant insisting , as though he would have slaine the whole English Army himselfe alone : and seeking to finde Henry Percie amongst the midst of them , hee was entered farre within the rankes of the enemies . Hollinshed confesseth , that with a great Mace in his hand he laid such sad strokes about him , that none came within his reach but he went downe to the ground . And Boetius saith plainly hee fought with a mase heavier then any man is able to beare in those dayes , and that rushing into the midst of his enemies , hee made such a slaughter , that it was chiefly attributed to his vertue , that the Scots wan the field . But whiles he is thus fighting in the midst of them , before his friends could come at him , though they pressed forward to have seconded and assisted him with all the force and speed that might be , they found him lying on the ground with three deadly wounds . There was lying dead by him Robert Hart ; and the Priest called Richard Lundie ( who was after made Arch Dean of Aberdene ) that had ever stood fast by his side , defended his fainting body with a halbert from injury : he being in this estate , his kins●… James Lindsay , and John and Walter Sinclairs came to him , and asked him how he did : I do well ( saith he ) dying as my Predecessours have done before ; not in a bed of languishing sicknesse , but in the field . These things I require of you as my last Petitions , First , that yee keep my death close both from our owne folke , and from the enemy ; then that ye suffer not my Standard to be lost , or cast downe ; and last , that ye avenge my death , and bury me at Melrosse with my Father . If I could hope for these things , I should die with the greater contentment , for long since I heard a Prophesie that a dead man should winne a field , and I hope in God it shall be I. Hereupon they covered his body with a cloake that it might not bee knowne , and then hoiseing aloft his Standard , and crying ( as the manner is ) a Douglas , a Douglas , most part repairing thither from all quarters they began the fight afresh ; for not onely the common sort of Souldiers came thither , but the Earle of Murray also came with great speed , thinking that the battell went hard on that hand , for he had beaten those that he had to deal with , and Sir John Mackyrell had taken the young Percie named Ralph , and delivered him to his Master the Earle of Murray , who had sent him ( being hurt ) to the Camp to bee cured , as Froysard saith . Hollinshed and Boetius agree that it was Keith Marshall that tooke him . By this means the ardour of the battell being relented on that hand , the fight was renewed , and the strife redoubled on this side , and the Earle Douglas followers ( who were gathered about his Ensigne ) did at last scatter and defeat the English , weary with the former fight which had continued both day and night : And in this assault the Earle of Montgomery tooke Henrie Percie their Captain prisoner , whereupon the Army fled and turned their backs . There were slain in this batteil 1840. of the English , and 1040. taken prisoners , 1000. also were hurt . Of the Scots there were 100. slain , and 200. taken prisoners , whilest they followed over rashly ( fewer following more ) they turned and tooke those that would have taken them . This is the battell at Otterburn , memorable not onely for the magnanimity , courage , perseverance , tolerance of travell , and ( in victory ) modestie of Souldiers and Captains , but also for the variable event , where the victor in high expectation of glory prevented by death , could not enjoy the fruit of his travels : the vanquished , albeit his Army was defeated , and himselfe made a prisoner , yet lived long after this battell with praise ; for it was no reproach to him to be overcome , nor so great a blot to have been put to the worse , as it was honourable to have so contended . The event of battells is uncertain , and onely in the hands of the highest : if men do there endeavour , what more can be required ? It is not the least part of the Percies honour that they did contest with the Douglasses , and did sometimes overcome , and sometimes were thus vanquished : thought it were but seldome that the Douglasses got the worse , when their forces were equall Here there was great inequalitie , where notwithstanding he wonne the honour through the losse of himselfe : neither was it accounted dishonour to his Army , though more in number , or to himselfe to have been thus overcome : for they are recorded to have done their endeavours , and discharged the parts of valiant men , and were onely overmatched by excellency of valour as we have showne , and as it may be seen by all Writers ; not by hunger , or cold , steepnesse of hills and mountains ; which I speake not to reproach any , but to make known the truth , and withall , not to cover vertue on either side , which was confessed of all in that age , neither was any man found of another minde : onely the Earle Marshall of England being a little after sent downe with a company to be Warden of the Borders during Percies captivitie ( who did build for his ransome the Castle of Penoun neare to Glasgow ) durst extenuate the vertue of the Scots with the reproach of his owne Countrey-men , attributing the cause of this victory , not to the valour of the Scots , but to the cowardise of the English that fought against them , boasting much of himselfe , that if hee had beene present , or if he should happen to have occasion to fight with the Scots , he should doe great matters ; but his brags were soone made to appeare but idle words : for moved by these his speeches , the Governour of Scotland ( viz. Robert Earle of Fife ) having raised an Army , went into England with Archbald Earle of Douglas ( called the Grimme ) brother to this deceased Earle ( and who did succeed him in the Earledome ) and made directly toward the Earle Marshall , and as soone as they came in sight , offered him battell : and when they could not draw him out to fight , they sent an Herauld to him to challenge him , and provoke him to fight , but all in vain , for neither did hee send back any answer , neither would hee come to an equall and even ground . Therefore they having spoyled and wasted the Countrey with fire and sword in his sight , and as it were under his nose , returned home into Scotland , to the great contentment of the Scots , and no great discontentment of the English prisoners , who were not sorry that his vanity was thus discovered . Certainly , the truth can hardly be belied , and if partiality will nor , yet indifferency will beare witnesse to it . Froysard ( a stranger , and favouring more the English ) concludeth touching this battell , that in all History , there is none so notable by the vertue of the Captains , and valour of the Souldiers , fought so long , so hardely , so variable , the victory enclining diversly divers times , and at last obtained , not by the cowardise of the overcome , but by the valour of the overcomers : neither is that vertue of valour onely remarkable in this place , and marked by him , but their modestie when they had overcome , rare and wonderfull to him ( as it is indeed to others ) but common enough to the Scottish Nation , practised by them often in their victories , and almost ever where some great enormitie hath not irritated them , contrary to their nature and custome ; yet here very singularly : for in the heat of the conflict no men ever fought more fiercely , in the victory obtained none ever behaved themselves more mercifully ; taking prisoners , and having taken them , using them as their dearest friends , with all humanitie , courtesie , gentlenesse , tendernesse , curing their wounds , sending them home , some free without ransome , some on small ransome , almost all on their simple word and promise to return at certaine times appointed , or when they should be called upon . So that of 1000. prisoners scarce 400. were brought into Scotland , the rest all remitted in that same manner , with Ralph Percie ; and by his example , who because of his words desired this courtesie of the Earle of Murray , and obtained it , and was sent to Newcaste on his naked word to returne when hee should be called for . But what courage and confidence was it , that they durst adventure with so great perill to bee so courteous as they were ? when the Bishop of Durham approaching to invade them the next day , 10000. ( as some say ) with 7000. ( as others ) of fresh men , yet they would not kill their prisoners that were within their Campe , equall ( almost ) to the halfe of their owne number , but on their owne promises to remaine true prisoners ( how ever the field went ) and with a small guard , having onely pinioned them together with small cords , suffered them to live in the Campe , and went themselves to encounter the Bishop , full of confidence and scorn , that after the defeat of the slowre of Northumberland , with there so worthy Leaders as the Percies , that a Priest ( so they called the Bishop , should dare to set upon them , or but to abide them three marked strokes , as their Leaders said to them in his exhortation , as it came indeed to passe without any strokes : for they affrighted him with the onely sound of their hornes ( as it seems Major would say ) which they winding against him , and the hills redoubling the sound thereof , hee was affraid and durst not invade them , finding them ready and resolved to fight , whom hee thought to have found weary , because of their former travell , or negligent because of their victory . And considering ( saith Froysard ) there was more to be lost , then to be wonne at their hands , the Captain distrusting his Hoast , and the Hoast their Captain , it was thought best not to give battell , and so he retired without assaulting them . Their Leader after the Earle Douglas death , was the Earle of Murray ( saith Buchanan ) but I should rather take it to be the Earle of March , for hee was the elder brother ; and Major saith it was March. However our Scottish mens courtesie and courage is exceeedingly to be commended , who notwithstanding that they looked for nothing but to have fought with the Bishop of Durham , yet did they spare their prisoners , which ( and the like actions ) when I consider , I would gladly understand of such as delight to reproach our Nation with all the calumnies they can invent , and amongst the rest , stile them barbarous , what it is they call barbarity ? and if crueltie , and inhumanity bee not the speciall points of it ? whereof they shall never reade that any Nation were more free , or that ever hath been more courteous , humane , gentle , in peace and in warre , even at all times , and in all places . I wish all men would acknowledge the truth as it is : if they will not , yet shall it be truth , and truth shall never want a witnesse . It will be acknowledged , and must prevail to their great reproach that seek to hide or to impaire it . To return to our History : when the newes of these things were brought to the other Campe , which was in Cumberland , they were stricken with extreme griefe , and were more sorry for the death of the Earle of Douglas , then they were glad for the victory obtained ; all their joy for that successe being turned into grievous lamentation . So great was the affection of all the Army towards him , that not onely those who followed him , but those of the other Army also , retired home silent and sad , as if they had been discomfited , and overcome . It increased the commiseration of men , that he died in the flowre of his age , and that he alone should be deprived of that victory which was obtained by his vertue and valour . And I think that the same affection both continue in the hearts of the Readers of the History , which is never mentioned without a tender compassion . And for my selfe so often I call to mind his great worth , and short life , I remember withall that of the Poet , Ostendent terris hunc tantum fata , nec ultra Esse sinent , &c. The fates shall make but of this youth a show , Such vertue must not tarry long below . And with a great hyperbole , greater then Piety can well admit , if any such speeches can be over great , which doe not import what they speak , but are onely brought to expresse the highest excellency that can be . Nimium vobis Romana propago Visa potens , superi , propria haec si dona fuissent . The Heavens had made the Roman race to be Too blest , if this gift had held on with thee . Change but the Countrey name , call it ( Scotana propago ) and you shall accommodate these verses more fitly here to this man : but most of all in the simple sense , that which followes , Non illi quisquam se impune tulisset Obvius armato , seu cum pedes iret in hostem , Seu spumantis equi foderet calcaribus armos . No man in Armes that durst to him make head , Did scape unfoild , on foot , or foaming steed . Which he speaking of Marcellus , if he had lived , is witnessed of this Earle Douglas , even by the adversary , whiles he yet lived . To which purpose I remember that worthy Sir Philip Sidney in his defence of Poesie writeth of himself , that hee never heard the song of Douglas and Percie , but hee found his heart more moved therewith then with a Trumpet ; whereof hee alledgeth the cause to bee the force and power of Poetrie : though it bee sung ( saith hee ) by some rude crowder , and with no rougher voyce then a grosse stile . What he saith of himselfe I doubt not but others have found in themselves : neither is it the musick of that rough singer , that giveth it this force , farre lesse the vertue of the grosse rime : it is the matter that gives the efficacie , and the vertue of the man that begetteth a resembling vertue in the heart ; not by Poesie , but by the rightly described History . Indeed this is the man apparantly , who hath given subject to those songs , being the first that encountred with Percie in such a particular conflict : but that which is commonly sung of the hunting of Chiviot seemeth indeed Poeticall , and a meer fiction ( perhaps to stirre up vertue ) yet a fiction , whereof there is no mention neither in the Scottish , nor English Chronicle : neither are the songs that are made of them both one , for the Scots song made of Otterburn telleth the time about Lammasse , and the occasion to take preyes out of England ; also the dividing of the Armies betwixt the Earles of Fife and Douglas , and their severall journeys , almost as in the authentick History : It beginneth thus : It fell about the Lammas tide When yeomen wonne their hay , The doughtie Douglas gan to ride , In England to take a prey . Whereas the other maketh another occasion , and altogether different , yet it is not more effectuall to move vertue , then the true History here ●…et downe : nor indeed so effectuall as it . And therefore let it bee read , and read over again , by such as delight in Military vertues ; chiefly by those to whom these examples are as hereditary , and domestick , which they must needs affect , as also all the other actions of the life , but none testifying a better mind , a better resolution of the mind ; more courage , more valour , with gifts of the body , strength and activity , all ruled by reason , and guided by wisedome , as is seen in his dealing with the French men , when they would have had him to fight with the King of England : which vertues of valour and wisedome so joyned , are able to make a due harmony , acceptable to a right judgement , commendable to after ages , and profitable for the present . Boctius writeth that hee died not in the field , but after the field in his owne Tent , and that the Earles of Crawford , Murray , and March , went into his Tent , and found him lying hurt with three great wounds , almost dead : at which sight , each looked upon other with a silent astonishment , and then burst forth into teares and weeping : which he beholding , said unto them ( with a weake and faint voyce which could scarcely be heard ) I beseech you good friends leave your lamenting , and be glad of the present victorie which God of his goodnesse hath granted to us : We exposed our bodies to the enemies sword , to obtain that which wee have obtained : Turne therefore your teares unto thanks , mindefull rather of the benefit , then sorrowfull for that which is happened otherwayes then ye wished . If yee regard my paines and my life , which for you I lose , pray for my soul , and follow Vertue , and Armes , as ye doe , which you may imploy for the liberty of your Countrey , keeping concord amongst your selves , with a kinde remembrance of me . Soone after these words were uttered , hee died in the armes of his friends . There are that say , that he was not slain by the enemy , but by one of his owne men , a Groome of his Chamber , whom he had struck the day before with a truncheon in the ordering of the battell , because hee saw him make somewhat slowly to : and they name this man John Bickerton of Luffenesse , who left a part of his armour behinde unfastned , and when hee was in the greatest conflict , this servant of his came behinde his back , and slew him thereat : but this narration is not so probable . He was buried at Melrosse besides his father , with a Military pompe of the whole Army , and all the honour that could bee devised for him besides by the Abbot , and Monks of that Convent , after the most solemne manner of those times : Jacobus Duglassius qui obiit ad Otterburnum Julii 31. 1388. Moriens . Quaeritis ô quid agam ? an animam jam ago , fata meorum Hac sequor . Innumero huc vulnere facta via est . Nesciat hoc hostis , sequitor quam quisque secat spem : Atque aliquis nostri funeris ultor ades . Finiit : Et subito redivivo funere surgens Mars novus intonuit , victor & ultor obit . Johnst . Herees . In English thus : My friends you aske me how I do . My soul is now prepar'd to go , Where many wounds have made her way . Conceal it , till you winne the day : Pursue your hopes : this said , he dy'd ; Then the whole rank's a Douglas cry'd , And charg'd a fresh , that thou might'st have Revenge and honour in the grave . Before we proceed to speake of the next Earle of Douglas , the order of the History requireth that first wee speake of Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway , brother to William the first Earle of Douglas , and of the said Archbalds naturall sonne VVilliam Lord of Nithisdale . Of this Archbald we have mentioned what was remarkable in his brother Earle VVilliams life , for that was the time of his action . The first was after the battell of Penure , to bee revenged of the losse , whereof the English invaded Scotland with 50000 , men ( as they say that make them the fewest ) or 40000. ( as others ) conducted by the Lord Talbot a very valiant man : with this huge number when they had spoyled the Countrey farre and wide , as they retired towards England , they were assailed at a strait passage by the Lord of Galloway , who had not above 5000. in his company : with these he discomfited his hoast , and recovered the whole bootie . There were slain of the enemies in the conflict . 400. and 200. taken prisoners , and many were drowned in the river Solway , as they fled unadvisedly . Some write that he set upon them in the night being incamped in a strait valley , not farre from England , where the first that they met withall being slain , the rest were affrighted and disordered , and so overthrowne . The next thing that we heare of him , is that he was with his brother the Earle at the conference with John of Gaunt , Duke of Lancaster , concerning a truce , and that hee accompanied the said Duke to Holyrood-house . The truce was made for three yeares . And after these were expired , the Lord of Galloway being very much grieved that there should be a Garrison of English in the Castle of Lochmabane , which did daily spoil and rob the villages and townes of Galloway , and Annandale , raised a great power by the help of his brother the Earle Douglas , and the Earle of March , and besieged the Castle for the space of eleven dayes . There came some English companies to have raised the siege , and relieved the Castle , but he repulsed them . Thereafter having assaulted it very fiercely , the Captain thereof , Sir William Ediston , yeelded it up unto him , lives and goods safe , and he having gotten it into his hands , razed it to the ground . It is written also of him that hee went into France with his Nephew James Earle of Douglas , when he was sent to renew the ancient league with that Kingdome . The last of his actions that we can finde is that hee was with his Nephew James Earle of Douglas , and the Earle of March , at the taking of Wark , Foord , and Cornhill , where he wasted and spoyled the Countrey betwixt Berwick and Newcastle with the Frenchmen . These Frenchmen not contented herewith , but desirous to doe some other exploit , joyning with Archbald Lord of Galloway , passed Solway sands , and did wonderfull great hurt in Cumberland . He is accounted by Writers , to have been a very sufficient and valorous Gentleman , and that he died before the battell of Otterburn , in the yeare 1387. He founded the Hospitall of Holiwood , and to him succeded his Nephew Archbald ( called the Grimme ) in the Lordship of Galloway , who afterwards was both Earle of Douglas , and Lord of Galloway . And here it is to be observed , that there were three Archbald Douglasses almost contemporary , which are to be distinguished , that we mistake not one for another . The first is this Archbald , brother to William the first Earle , who was Lord of Galloway , then when his brother lived , and who was father to the Lord Niddisdale . The second Archbald was son naturall to good Sir James , slain in Spain , who was made Captain of the Castle of Edinburgh , when it was taken by his brother the Lord of Liddesdale , who is wrongfully named VVilliam in our Chronicles , in stead of Archbald . He was at the battell of Poytiers , and is reported to have married in France , and remained there till his death . The third is Archbald the Grimme , of whom we shall speake hereafter . Our Writers through inadvertance doe divers times confound these three ; taking one of them for another . As when they say Archbald Lord of Galloway , sonne to sir James slain in ●…pain , was taken at Poytiers , it is a manifest errour : for if he was Lord of Galloway , hee was not sonne to Sir James ; if he were sonne to Sir James , then was hee not Lord of Galloway ; for Galloway did never belong to Sir James , but to his brother Archbald slain at Halydoun hill , who obtained it by marrying the heire of Galloway ( as hath been said ) and gave it to his second sonne this Archbald . Thus much I thought good to advertise the Reader in this place , for the better distinguishing of them . Of William Lord of Niddisdale ( sonne naturall to this foresaid Archbald Lord of Galloway ) commonly called The black DOUGLAS . THis William Lord of Niddisdale ( sonne naturall to Archbald Lord of Galloway ) is ( if any else ) worthy , who should be spoken of by himselfe being highly commended by Writers , who say that he was the prime and principall of the youth of Scotland , that he was a man accomplished with all abilities of body and minde , straight and tall of stature , not overcharged with flesh , but big of bone , a mighty personage , valiant , courteous , amiable , merrie , faithfull and pleasant in company and converse , of such extraordinary strength , that whomsoever he strooke with Sword or Mace , he fell to the ground , were he never so well armed : he was also wise and sober . At one time having but 800. in his company , he fought against 3000. English , of which he slew 200. and tooke 500. prisoners . This is he that is commonly called The bla●…ke Douglas , because he was of a blacke and swart complexion . His first vassallage of note was at the inroad made by Robert Earle of ●…ife , and James Earl Douglas , when they burnt Cumberland , Westmoreland , and Northumber land . In this expedition he is said to have gained great reputation , for ( beside many other exploits not expressed ) he with other two only made great havocke of the enemies at the burning of the Suburbs of Carlile ( who offered to hinder him from passing the bridge by slaying some , and turning over others into the river . Some say that he slew with his owne hands three of the most valiant of the English , of which one was a chiefe Commander : afterwards , when the same Towne was besieged , the enemies having made a sally , whilest he repulsed them , and followed too eagerly , he was engaged too farre in the midst of his enemies , and taken prisoner . As he was led along toward the Towne by foure men ( having beene before disarmed , and his weapons taken from him , he strooke two of them to the ground with his fists , and the other two betaking themselves to flight , he returned safe to his company . Hereupon his name was terrible to the English , especially the common sort , who did ordinarily astright and skare their children , when they would not be quiet , by saying , The blacke Douglas comes , the blacke Douglas will get thee . These his vertues moved Robert the second to savour him so farre , as to bestow his daughter on him , though he knew him to be a bastard . The Ladies name was Giles ( or Egidia ) and she was a mirrour of rare and singular beautie , so that whithersoever she went , she drew the eyes of all men towards her with admiration . The chiefe noble youths of the land did sute her in marriage , but the King preferred our William of Niddisdale for his worth before them all . Bocce writeth that the King of France having heard of the fame of her beautie , sent a painter into Scotland privately , who having drawne her portraiture truly , and shewed it to the King , he was so enamoured thereof , that incontinent he dispatched Embassadours to desire her in marriage ; but all too late , for she was married ( before their coming ) to Niddisdale . The King gave him and his heires to be begotten by him with his daughter , the Lordship of Niddisdale , lying nearest unto Galloway , with the Office of Warden of that Border , and Sheriffeship of Dumfrees , with the Office of Justice , and Chamberlaine , with a pension of three hundred pound sterling by yeare out of the great Customes of certaine Burrowes designed to that effect . He had by this Lady a daughter , who was married to Henry Sinclaire Earle of Orkney , who bare to him a sonne called William , afterward Earle of Orkney . This daughter of his ( married to Orkney ) was named Giles ( after her mother ) as appeareth by a note that is extant of the descent of the Sinclairs . Her husband is called Henry Sinclaire , and his titles are , Knight of the Cockle , of the Garter , and Prince of Orkney . This note calleth William Douglas , Lord of Niddisdale , Prince of Danskine , Duke of Spruce . Sir William Sinclaire , sonne to Henry and Giles , is called Knight of the Golden Fleece , and of the Cockle , Prince of Orkney , Duke of Holdenburgh , Earle of Cathnes , Lord Sinclaire , Lord of Niddisdale , with the valleyes of Neth , Sheriffe of Dumfrees , Great Admirall of Scotland , Warden of the Marches , Great Justice Generall , Baron of Erkfoord , Caverton , Cowsland , Rosseline , Pentland , Harbarshire , Disart , Newbrough in Buchan ; Titles to wearie a Spaniard : which I have set downe to recreate the Reader , either by seeing his greatnesse , or to laugh at the vanitie of the Writer : and yet he hath forgotten one of his titles , which is , Chancellour of Scotland , as Buchanan calls him , and á confirmation given him by King James the second in the yeare 1456. April 29. wherein he calls him his Chancellour and Cousin . This confirmation is of the Earledome of Cathnes united into one Baronie , and his lands of Orkney in compensation of his claime and title to the Lordship of Niddisdale , Offices and Pensions whatsoever that were given to William Douglas ( his Grandfather by his Mother ) by contract of marriage with Giles Stuart ( daughter to K. Robert by his wife Elizabeth Moore ) as is at length therein contained . About the time of the field at Otterburne , because some Irishmen that adhered to England had roaved upon the coasts of Galloway , and carried away store of booty and spoile , the Lord of Niddisdale to be revenged thereof , gathered together a competent number of men , by the aid of his brother in-law Robert Earle of Fife , and by licence from the King providing himselfe of Ships and vessels , passed the seas into Ireland , and besieged Carlinfoord , a rich Towne in those parts . The Townesmen fearing their Towne should be taken by assault , obtained a truce for certaine dayes , promising to give him a summe of money to have their Towne saved . But in the meane time they assembled some 500. men through the help of a neighbour Towne called Dundalke , and joyning with them , they divided themselves into two squadrons or companies : the one of which invaded Robert Stuart of Disdier , who conducted the Earle of Fifes men , and was gone abroad to bring in some prey : the other assailed the Lord of Niddisdale , who lay still before the Towne . Notwithstanding of this unexpected sally , they were received with such courage and valour , that at last they were put to flight ; and immediately Niddisdale gave an hard assault to the Towne , and carried it : having taken and rifled it sufficiently , he set it on fire , and burnt it to ashes . Others write , that at his first landing the Citizens hearing it was the Lord Niddisdale ( whose name was so fearfully spread over all those quarters ) not only rendred the Town to him , but also received him with great triumph , as if he had been their King or Prince ; and that hereupon he used them courteously . But when his men were in great security , scattered and separated , as fearing no hurt or danger , and some at their Ships , some sent with Robert Stuart of Disdier to spoile the Countrey about , which stood out against him , and to furnish his ships and the towne ; so that there remained not with the Lord Niddisdale above 200. men when they set upon him , as before we have said ; and being beaten , the Towne was sackt and burnt . Then they tooke 60. ships , which they found in divers Havens and Creeks , and laded 15. of them with such spoile as they had gotten , and burnt the rest . Then returning homeward , they spoiled the Isle of Man , which lay in their way . He landed at Loch-rien , which divides a part of Galloway from Carrict , and hearing there of the roade into England , he hasted him hither with all diligence . But truce being made for certaine yeares with England , that he might not languish in idlenesse , he passed into Spruce , from whence he heard that an Army was to be sent against the Infidels . There hee gave such proofe of his vertue and valour , that hee was chosen Admirall of the whole Fleet , which was very faire and great , esteemed to consist of 250. saile , and was there created Duke of Spruce , and Prince of Danskin . But there arose dissention hetwixt him and the Lord Clifford an Englishman , upon an old emulation , and present envie of his new preferment , at which Clifford grudged . Wherefore being challenged to the field by Clifford , he accepted it gladly : but the other weighing with himselfe what a hazzard he was like to runne by fighting with such a man of such incomparable valour , found meanes ( before the day of the combat came ) to make him away by hired Assasines and Brigands , who murthered him in the night on the bridge of Danskin . The Manuscript seemeth to say that combat was not taken on there and then , but long before , while they were both at home ; and that Niddisdale before the day passing to Paris to provide armour fit for him ( or on whatsoever occasion else ) Clifford gave it out that he had fled the combat ; but when he saw that he was returned before the day appointed , fearing to match with his well knowne strength and valour , would have shifted the fight with many frivolous excuses . Now there being assembled and met together at that time brave Knights from all the parts of Christendome , Clifford partly for envie of the honour conferred upon his adversary , and partly remembring their old debates , but chiefly because of this disgrace and infamie , of being put to this necessitie of refusing to fight with him , hee caused mercenarie cut-throats to lie in wait for him , who as he happened to walke through the streets , and view the walls of the Towne , set upon him , and murdered him , not without great difficultie : by which losse that enterprise against the Infidels was disturbed and dashed . We told before how he is stiled Prince of Danskin , and Duke of Spruce , in the Monuments of the Sinclairs , of whom one had married his daughter : sure it is , by the report of many eye-witnesses , that there was a gate in Dansick on which the Coat of the Douglasses was carved and graven in stone , which decaying , and being of late re-edified , this monument of him is perished . The common opinion is , that Dansick having beene taken by Infidels , was regained by Scottishmen , and therefore it is that the Scots have such priviledges there : and there is a part of the Town which they call little Scotland , which is inhabited almost with Scottishmen . All which must be referred ( most apparently ) to the Lord Niddisdale , and to this time , and doth testifie in some measure he hath surpassed the quality and condition of a private man , or of a stranger in those parts , seeing he acquired the title of Prince and Duke , whereof we can affirme no more then hath beene said . This fell out about the yeare 1389. or 1390. about the death of King Robert the second . Of Archbald the second , called The Grimme , the third Earle , and twelfth Lord of Douglas and Bothwell . UNto James ( slaine at Otterburn ) succeeded his brother Archbald , whom Hollinshed wrongfully calleth his Cousin . Hee was married to the daughter of Andrew Murray , sisters sonne to K. David Bruce , and Governour of Scotland : by her he got the Lordship of Bothwell , and many other lands ; and she bare to him two sonnes , first William , who died a yeare before his father without children ; and Archbald , who succeeded to his father : also a daughter named Marjorie , married to David Prince of Scotland . Concerning this Archbald the Grim , we finde not many particular acts of his recorded , besides those which he did in his fathers time , and in his brothers ( of which we have already spoken ) although certainly hee cannot but have done divers worthy of memorie , seeing he hath the name and reputation of a most worthy Captaine , being so sterne and austere in carriage and countenance , that hee was termed , The Grimme Douglas , and by our Writers , Archbald the Grimme . Now that we may the better understand the reasons of the Douglasses proceedings and actions , let us ( as our manner is ) take a generall view of the estate of the Countrey at this time . His succession to the Earledome by the death of his brother was ( as we have said ) not long before the death of King Robert the second , who died in the Castle of Dundonald in the yeare 1390. April 19. Before his death there was a Truce taken betweene England and France for the space of seven yeares , wherein Scotland was also comprehended . By reason of this Truce partly , and partly for that his sonne John , who was afterward called Robert the third , was lame both of body and minde , and so no wayes fit for warre , there is no mention of any exploit done by this man : onely it is said of him , that when King Robert the third , in the year 1396. and the seventh of his reign , created divers Dukes , and would have made this Archbald one , he refused it as a noveltie and an empty title , not worthy of the accepting , seeing it was neither bestowed for merit , nor service done , nor had any reall advantage in it , save an airy show of appearing honour to please the humour of ambitious minds , of which he was none . The next yeare following , Richard the second of England , was deposed , and the Duke of Lancaster was made King in his roome , who was Henry the fourth : In the beginning of Henries reigne , the seeds of warre were sowen upon this occasion . George Dumbarre , Earle of March had betrothed his daughter Elizabeth to David the Kings eldest sonne , and had payed a great part of their portion before hand : But the Earle Douglas , alledging that the Kings private contracting of his sonne without the consent of the State , was not according to the custome of the Kingdome , nor right and orderly done , caused the matter to be propounded by his Majestie to the Parliament , as former Kings had done , and as reason required , seeing the whole Kingdome hath interest in the matching of their Princes , and Kings children . There he handled the busines so , that the contract with Marches daughter was declared void and null , and his owne daughter Marjorie Douglas , was contracted to the said Prince David by consent of the Parliament ; having offered a greater portion with her , then the Earle March had done with his daughter . He obtained for her joynture , all the rents and revenewes which belonged to the King on the south side of Forth . The way he tooke to bring this to passe , was by the means of the Kings brother Robert Earle of Fife , now made Duke of Albany , and Governour of the Countrey under the King , as he had been in their fathers time ; who did also then even govern both King and Kingdome , and every thing as he listed : and Douglas and he were inward , and deare friends , as his brother James ( slain at Otterburn ) and he had ever been : now whether the Earle Douglas had that respect indeed to have matters of such importance to the Kingdome done by common advice of the Nobility chiefly , or if his chief end were his owne particular , because of the old emulation betwixt the Earles of March and Douglas , to hinder the growth of that house by this great advantage of aliance , or if hee had an eye to both , or to any thing else , I leave it to be judged of others . The marriage was solemnized in the Church of Bothwel the yeare 1400. with greater haste then good speed , or any comfort to either party that we heare of . For neither came this David ever to bee King , which was the thing that was expected , that thereby the house of Douglas might have been greatned : Neither did this aliance of Prince David with the Earle of Douglas , stand him in any stead : in that hee was most miserably handled by his Uncle the Governour , who aspired himself to the Crowne , which makes me to wonder why hee did not rather hinder this marriage of his Nephew with the Earle Douglas , then thus further it ; seeing in all likelyhood it might have been a great let and strong hinderance to those his ambitious designes : But so are the secrets of things hid from us , that wee cannot finde out the causes and reasons of them by no means , being not observed , or not mentioned by the Writers of those times ; hovvever this marriage bred great contention and enmity betvveen the Earles of March and Douglas ( though neare kinsemen ) and did also disturb the peace and quietnesse of the Kingdome : for March before the marriage was solemnized , did not stick to goe to the King , and upbraid him with breach of promise , which ( he said ) was neither just , nor Princely ; craving also importunately , and roughly the restitution of his monywhich he had advanced for his daughters portion . The King having not answered him according to his mind , hee spared not to threaten that he should be avenged on that rufle and disgrace that he had put upon him and his daughter . And so retiring from Court , he fortefies his Castle of Dumbarre , and gives it in keeping to his Nephew Robert Metellan , he himselfe ( having received leave of King Henry ) went into England ; whereupon the Castle of Dumbarre was summoned in the Kings name by an Herauld of Armes , and was surrendered by the Captain thereof Robert Metellan into the hands of the Earle Douglas . The Earle of March returned into Scotland , but being excluded out of his Castle at Dumbarre , went back again into England , taking his Lady and children along with him , together with the nearest of his kinsmen , and his chief friends accompanying him . There he joyned with Henry Percie ( called hote spurre ) a perpetuall enemy of the house of Douglas , and trusting to the favour and good will borne him by these who dwelt on the East Border or March of Scotland , most of which were his vassalls and dependers , many of them his kinsmen , and all of them tied to him by some relation , or obligation , he troubled the Merse chiefly and the Earle Douglas lands with frequent incursions and inroades . The King hereupon caused proclaime him rebell , and yet notwithstanding , sent to him a Herauld of Armes , with profer of pardon , and restitution , upon condition that hee would returne and live peaceablely at home ; and that he should receive all such satisfaction for any wrong he could justly complain of , as he desired . But when hee refused to embrace this offer , the Herauld passed on to King Henrie , and complained of the Earle of March , craving that hee might bee delivered according to the Articles of the truce . But hee was answered by the King , that hee had given him his word , and could not breake it . In the mean time Percie , and the Earle of March , being emboldned with divers successefull attempts upon the Borders , adventured with 2000. men to come into Lowthian , where they wasted the Countrey near unto Hadington , assaulted the Castle of Hales twice but in vain : burnt the townes of Hales , Trapren , Markill , and other adjacent villages . And while they encamped at Linton upon Tine , hearing of the Earle Douglasses approach , who had raised sufficient forces , and was marching towards them , and was come as farre as Penkrake , they arose and fled in great haste , leaving behind them all their booty , together with their owne luggage and carriage . The manuscript and black booke of Scone say clearly that the Earle Douglas followed them so quickly , that he overtooke them or they got to Berwick , and killed divers , having wrested an ensigne out of the hands of Sir Thomas Colbouth which he brought into Scotland with him . Boetius relates it not much otherwise . Other Histories make no mention hereof , but onely say , that the Earle returned to Edinburgh with great congratulation and joy of all men . He died not long after of a burning fever the same yeare 1400 , in the beginning of February : very unseasonably for his Countrey ; which was destitute of able Commanders in warre , having lost divers others of good note not long before . He was buried in Bothwell with his Ladie . He was a man nothing inferiour to any of his Predecessours , or Successours of his house and name , in any kind of vertue , and in speciall of true and reall kindnesse to his friends and followers , as appeareth by a letter of his to the Earle of March in favour of the Laird of Ridpeth , a Gentleman in Lammer moore who was his follower , and was wronged by the Earle of March in the possession of some lands : but more in Marches refusall to right him ; he assembleth his forces , and dispossesseth the Earle of Marches sonne , and reponed Ridpeth in his right , and maintained him therein ever after , which his successours doe enjoy at this day . As for his valour and conduct in warre , hee is termed the best Captain of his time , and that in his person the splendour and glory of warrefare both stood and fell . Others say that hee left behinde him an honourable memory of high Prowesse , and noble valour , shewed in many enterprises by him happily atchieved for the good of his Countrey . In Piety hee was singular through his whole life , and most religious according to those times . He did very much honour and reverence all religious persons ; for whose use he founded the Colledge of Bothwell . Out of his zeal and sincerity he expelled the Nuns of the Abbacie of Lincloudon , and changed it into a Colledge of Clerks , because the Nuns ( saith Boetius ) kept not their institution of their order : and Major saith it is to be presumed , that they kept not their Chastitie , otherwise he could never have thrust them out . And in this he commendeth him , as having an eye to Religion , and a speciall care of the pure and sincere worship of God , as his onely end and intention . As for his prudence and providence , it appeareth that he did greatly encrease his Revenues , and enlarge his Dominions : hee was trusty and faithfull in his promises , and carried a minde free from all ambition , and vain glory : All vertues greatly to bee accounted of , and imitated of all . Of Archbald the third of that Name and thirteenth Lord , the fourth Earle of Douglas , Lord of Bothwell , Galloway and Annandale , first Duke of Turrane , Lord of Longe-ville , and Marshall of France . UNto Archbald ( the Grimme ) succeeded his second sonne , named also Archbald ; he was married to Margaret daughter to King Robert the third , and second of the Stuarts . She lieth buried in the Church of Linclouden , with this inscription on her Tombe , Hic jacet Margarita Scotiae regis silia , Comitissa de Douglas , vallis Anandiae , & Gallovidiae Domina . Herelies Margaret daughter to the King , Countesse of Douglas , Lady of Annandale and Galloway . He had by her two sonnes , Archbald , to whom Thomas Flemine Earle of Wigton resignes the Earledome of Wigton , and he is entitled ( during his fathers life time ) Archbald Earle of Wigton : his other sonne was James , Lord Abercorne , called grosse James . Hee had also two daughters , Margaret , married to Sir William Sinclair Earle of Orkney who was fifth in line from the Earle of Saint Clarences second sonne , that came first out of France , and was sonne to Giles ( or Egidi●… ) Douglas , daughter to the Earle of Niddisdale . Elizabeth was the other , who was married to John Stuart Earle of Buchan , second sonne to Robert the Governour , afterward Constable of France : her dowry or portion given with her in marriage , were the lands of Stuarton , Ormeshugh , Dunlope , Trabuyage ( in Carrict ) by resignation . This Archbald is hee who was called Tine-man , for his unfortunate and hard successe he had , in that he tint ( or lost almost all his men , and all the battels that hee fought . This nick-name , or cognomination in the old manuscript ( of Sir Richard Metellan of Lithington ) giveth to Archbald slain at Halidoun hill , and calleth this , Archbald one eye , for distinction , because of the losse of his eye in a battell against Percie . But that surname of Tyne man cannot bee given so conveniently to the former Archbald , who lost onely one field , and himself in it ; whereas this man ever lost his men , himself escaping often : hee is distinguished also from others by the Title of Duke of Turrane : But however he be named , it is true , that no man was lesse fortunate , and it is no lesse true , that no man was more valorous , as will appeare by the History . At his beginning to bee Earle , a little after the decease of his father in August 1409. Henry the fourth of England entered Scotland with an Army , and came to Edinburgh , where he besieged the Castle , in the which the Duke of Rothsay ( Prince of Scotland ) and with him the Earle of Douglas , were . The Governour of Scotland raised an Army to have given him battell , and was come to Calder-more , but went no further , and there disbanded his Army . The English Histories say , that the Governour sent word to the King of England , that if he would stay for him but sixe dayes onely he would give him battell , and that the Herauld got a silke gowne , and a gold chain for his newes from the King ; but the King having stayed twice sixe could heare nothing of his coming . The cause of the Governours slacknesse is given out by some to have been the desire that he had that the Duke of Rothsay might perish , and be taken out of the way , that he himself might come to the Crown . Now as all do agree , that he had these ambitious thoughts , so Major sheweth that there was also some other particular between them , whereof he relateth the occasion to have been this . There was one John R●…morgeny , who first laboured to perswade the Duke of Rothsay to cause slay the Governour , and then ( when he could not prevail with him to wrong his Uncle ) he dealt with the Governour to cut off the Duke his Nephew , as one that would ruine him , if ever he should come to be King. This Remorge●…y was seconded by Lindsay , who was upon the plot with him , and helped it forward upon malice against Rothsay , who had betrothed his sister , and rejected her , as he had done to the Earle of Marches eldest daughter . This seemeth not to be unlikely , and giveth some further light to the History , as containing the cause of the Governours not releeving the Castle of Edinburgh . It is also a remarkable example of crafty Counsellours , who are to be noted and avoided . And I marvell much how it hath escaped the diligence of our best Writers . I thought it not to be omitted in this place , as an instance of feare concurring with ambition in the Governour : and indeed these two are commonly joyned together , and take matter each of other . Ambition bringeth feare with it , and feare spurreth forward ambition toward that it aimes at ; as being not onely honourable , but necessary , and the onely meane to secure a mans selfe : especially where it lighteth upon such Counsellours , as these were , to blow the fire , whereof Princes had need to be aware , and stop the entrie to the first motions thereof . The blacke booke of Scone saith that Henry the fourth acknowledged himselfe to be ( semi Scotus de sanguine Cumini ) halfe a Scot of the bloud of the Cummins , and that he tooke the most High to witnesse , that he was not come to hurt the Countrey , but onely to have reason of some of the Nobilitie , who had written to the King of France that he was a Traitour in the superlative degree ( which letters his men had intercepted ) and to trie if the Authours of these letters durst fight it with him . The Manuscript saith that he was disappointed of his purpose notwithstanding : for he thought to have taken the Castle of Edinburgh , and to have made Scotland subject to him thereafter ; but it being valiantly defended by the Earle Douglas , he was constrained to rise from before it with great losse and discontentment , and no great credit ; especially for that the winter drew on apace , having sat downe before it about the end of September . I am not ignorant that our Writers give this Henry the commendation of great modestie in this journey , as being mindfull of the courtesie showne to his father the Duke of Lancaster in Scotland , and that they say that he used the prisoners not cruelly but courteously , and that when he passed by the Castles and Forts of the Countrey , he did onely require of the Captaines and Keepers of them , that his Ensignes might be set on the top of the wall , as a token of their submission , and that they were in his will : but seeing their owne Authors deny him this honour , and say that he burnt the Towns , Villages , and Castles , even a great part of Edinburgh and Leith , we have small reason to contend with them for it ; and so we accept of it , and follow the Scottish Manuscript . Upon Henries departure , because the Earle of March troubled the Countrey with frequent rather then with great incursions , the Earle Douglas ( who had the government of Lowthian , and the Castle of Dumbar ) went with an Army into Northumberland , and wasted the Countrey with great havock . At his returne he gave order that the Barons and Gentlemen should choose some of their number to be Captaines , and allot unto them a competent number to follow them , who might by turnes wait and be in readinesse , either to resist the enemie , or to make an in road upon him in his owne Countrey , as they should find occasion . The first turne fell to Thomas Haliburton Lord of Dirleton , who having entred England , and gotten a great bootie neere unto Bambrugh , returned home safe . But Patrick Hepburne of Hailes ( the younger ) had not the like successe : for he going upon the like adventure , had indeed taken a rich bootie , but having stayed a day longer then he should ( and had beene advised by his friends ) in the enemies bounds , they gathered themselves together , and following him , overtooke him at West Nisbet in the Merse . There , after a sharp encounter , the Scots had gotten the better of the English , and well nigh the victorie , till George Dumbarre , the Earle of Marches eldest sonne , coming in with an hundred fresh horse , regained the victorie to the English , and slew the flowre of the youth of Lowthian , together with their Captaine Patrick Hepburne . The fight happened the 22. of June 1401. the place whereof is yet called , The Slaughter Hill. This Patricke Hepburne was entirely beloved of the Earle Douglas , and as deare to him as his owne selfe : for he it was that fought so valiantly at Otterburne , and therefore he was filled with griefe and indignation for his death , being so brave a Captain , and so deare a friend to his house , and to himselfe . His honour also , and the credit of his Countrey stirred him up also to seeke a revenge of the Authors thereof . Whereupon having obtained leave of the Governour , he gathered together about some 10000. men , amongst whom were many of the chiefe Nobility of the land , even the Governours eldest sonne Murdock ( who succeeded to his father in the Government ) George Earle of Angus ( his owne Uncle ) Thomas Earle of Murray , and John Dumbarre brother to the Earle of March , one that had married the Kings sister . With this company he entered England as farre as Newcastle upon Tine , and having gotten a great bootie , was retiring homeward . In his returning , neare unto Milfield , Henry Hotspurre and George Earle of March lay in his way with a farre greater power then he had . Wherefore the Earle Douglas tooke a ground of advantage , which was a little hill besides Homildon , a Village in Northumberland . Percie would have marched straight towards him to have assailed him , but the Earle of March ( being very skilfull in warre , and more calme and advised ) stayed him , and gave him counsell first to send a flight of arrowes amongst them , and to give them a volee of their fielding pieces , which was done accordingly , and did greatly annoy the Scots , and slew many of them . Douglas perceiving that he could not brooke that place with safety , thought it better to hazzard the battell in plaine field , then to stand still and see his men slaine about him by the enemies shot , while they stood safe , and came not within stroake of their swords , and long weapons . And so ( though farre inferiour in number ) downe the hill he goes , and gave a fierce assault upon the enemie . But the Vauntguard being brangled , and giving backe ( being much troubled and sore wounded by the Archers ) though they were sharply rebooked by Adam Lord Gordon , and Sir John Swinton , and brought on againe , yet were they not able to sustaine and abide the shot of the enemie , but were defeated every man. The rest that were behind , being exhorted by their Captaines to revenge the death of their fellowes slaine before their eyes , did acquit themselves bravely , but being overwhelmed with the greater number , were also overthrowne at last . There were many slaine , amongst whom were the forenamed Adam Lord Gordon ( who had beene at variance with the Earle Douglas , but in this expedition hee had been reconciled to him , and Knighted by him ) and Sir John Swinston , two that gained greater reputation of valour and courage that day , and fought so valorously , that if the rest had followed their example , that field had not been so lost . There were also divers others of note ; such as John Livinston of Calender , Alexander Ramsay of Dalhousie , with a number of common souldiers . Many were taken of quality , Murdock the Governours son , George Earle of Angus , Thomas Earle of Murray , Robert Ereskine of Alloway , James Douglas eldest son to the Lord Dalkeith , and his two brothers , John and William ; George Lesly of Rothes , Patrick Dumbar of Be●…ll . In the black Booke of Scone is set downe the death of the foresaid George Earle of Angus , how hee died in England of the plague being a prisoner ( with many others ) and Alexander Hume of D●…glas also , as the same Booke doth witnesse . The Earle Douglas himselfe was taken also , having lost one eye in the fight . This battell was fought on the Holy Rood-day in Harvest , or ( as others ) the 5. of May 1401. or 1402. rather as appeareth by the former History . Whilest the Earle Douglas was prisoner in England , the Duke of Rothsay became so riotous , and insolently unruly , that his father not being able to governe him by his owne authority , did commit him to his brother , the Governours tuition , to be corrected and ta●…ed by him . Hee made use of this occasion for compassing his owne ambitious ends , or to be rid of the feare hee had of him , shut him up in Falkland , and starved him to death . The blacke Booke of Scone saith , that the Earle Douglas was with the Governour , when hee brought the Duke from Saint Andrewes to Falkland . But it should rather seem that he hath been a prisoner in England , when the Duke was thus used : for if hee had been at home , in all likelihood he would have reclamed the Duke ( being his brother in law ) and have brought him out of his wild courses ; or by his credit with the Governour would have saved him , and prevented such extremity , unlesse he had proceeded so farre as to cast off the Earles sister , whereof we heare nothing . And even in that case , seeing there is alwayes some hope of reconcilement between man and wife , and therefore such fallings out are often born with , in Princes upon that hope ; it is likely he would have used his care and credit to have composed things in some better sort : however , whether through his absence or negligence , or that having small hope of amendment , he would not meddle in it : the Duke persists in his lewd wayes , and growes rather worse then better . Wee reade of no help or assistance that the Douglas made unto him , as hee was bound by so neare alliance . Neither do we heare how he carried himself toward the Earles sister his wife ; or whether shee had any children by him or not , though they had been married at that time some foure or five yeares , and hee was a man of twenty three or twenty foure years of age at the least , having been eighteen when hee was enstalled Duke in the 1396. yeare , which is a great neglect and oversight in our Writers . This is clear that neither party had any contentment , or comfortable succes from this match which they so much affected & brought to passe with so great trouble , disquiet , and mischiefe in the Kingdome : a notable lesson for men to moderate their desires of any thing , and not to seeke it over eagerly ( though it seem never so advantagious ) in respect of the uncertainty of the sequell and event of all humane things . But to returne to our prisoner : wee see him hurt , defeated , a captive , but neither disgraced , nor discouraged ; no nor any whit lesse esteemed of by his friends , or enemies : who indeed needed not to bee over proud of this victory , which was obtained rather by the multitude of men , then meer valour , neither were they yet quit with the house of Douglas , for what they had received of them before : however these vicissitudes of fortune in the emulation of these two houses ( Douglas and Percie ) were matter rather of sharpning then discouraging , and dejecting their spirits , and bred not hatred , but an higher ( though emulous ) esteem of each towards other . This overthrow and losse of the Earle Douglas did not diminish , but rather increase his praise and glory , and that even in the opinion of the Conqueror . It became also the occasion of shewing his worth in a more conspicuous and publike Theatre , and on a more eminent subject , and powerfull enemy : for not long after , the Earle of Northumberland ( whether for envie of King Henries good successe , to whom he had been a great friend in the beginning ; or for that Henry usurped the Kingdome contrary to his oath and promise ; or for his neglecting to relieve Edmond Mortimer Earle of March , taken prisoner in his service against Owen Glendour by the said Owen , or out of indignation against him for craving to have his prisoners from him , which hee had taken at West Nisbet , and at Homildon , of whom onely they had sent Murdock Stuart to the King ; or for what ever other cause ) the said Earle entered into league with Edmond , Owen , and some other Lords , against the King , with such confidence , that they made a tripartite Indenture , wherein they divided all England into three parts , to each of them a third : whereupon Percie , esteeming highly of the Douglas valour , having had good proofe thereof at Homildon , offered if hee would take part with him in this enterprise , and shew himself as yaliant on his side , as hee had done against him , that he should not onely be let goe without ransome , but also ( if they prevailed ) he should have Berwick , and a part of Northumberland for his reward . Douglas , who was no wayes slack to embrace any good occasion against England , gladly accepted the condition , and getting leave to come home , returned again at the time appointed , well accompanied with many of his friends and followers . The leading of the vantguard was committed to him , which place he discharged bravely , and behaved himself so , as no man ever did more valiantly and admirably by all mens confession : for after the Scots ( who were led by him ) had made a fierce onset upon the Kings foreward ( conducted by the Earle of Stafford ) and forced them to give back , having almost broken their ranks , the King came to their aid with his fresh troupes , and renewed the fight more fiercely then before . Douglas and Percie , perceiving the King to be there in person , bent their whole forces towards him with such violence , that if George Dumbarre , Earle of March ( who had of late betaken himself to the Kings side ) had not warned the K. to withdraw himself from that place , Douglas had certainly slain him , for hee made so hard an onset on the Kings Standard , that he bore all down before him , and slew the Earle of Stafford with his owne hands , who had been made Constable of England that same day : as also three more , who were apparelled like the King : and when the K. restored the battell again , and had broken the rankes of those that stood against him , Douglas seeing him the fourth man in royall apparell , hee said aloud in great choler and indignation , where the Devil were all these Kings borne ? and withall running fiercely at him , beat him from his horse , and at the same instant slew Sir Thomas Blunt , the Kings Standard-bearer , and overthrew the Standard . But the K. was rescued , and mounted again by those that were about him , especially by his owne sonne ( afterward Henrie the fifth ) and so escaped . At last the victory fell to the Kings side , who had behaved himself most valorously , and is reckoned to have slain with his owne hands thirty six of the enemies . So that the victory is ascribed chiefly unto him , who did both by word and example encourage his Souldiers , that they renewed the fight , slew the Lord Percie , and with him discomfited the whole Hoast . The Earle Douglas was taken prisoner , and brought to the King , who would on no wise consent to have him put to death ( though divers perswaded him to it ) but commended his faithfulnesse to his friend , and praised his valour , which he honoured much ; in regard whereof he both caused cure his wounds , and sent him rich presents . Some write that being asked by those of the Kings side , why hee did joyne with such traitours against the King , his reply was onely this ; It seemeth ( saith hee ) that the King is yet alive , though divers Kings have been killed to day . This answer being so full of resolution , and courage , and void of all fear , did move the King to regard him so much the more . They tell also that being hurt in his privie members , when after the battell every man was reckoning his wounds , and complaining ; hee said at last when hee had hard them all , They sit full still that have a riven breike . The speach continueth still in Scotland , and is past into a Proverb which is used , to designe such as have some hidde and secret cause to complaine , and say but little . Holliwshed writeth , that in respect of his Noble parentage , and valour , he was tenderly cherished by King Henry , and frankly and freely demitted without ransome : and such indeed is the custome of generous minds to honour vertue even in the enemy . It is generally agreed upon by all , that he was highly honoured and esteemed , so that the King ( or some of his Nobles ) caused draw his picture , which is still to be seen in the privie Gallery at White Hall. But touching his delivery , some say that when he had stayed in England certain moneths , he was with difficulty set at liberty after he had payed a great summe of money . Others write , that he was detained eight or nine yeares at least , but that seems to be too much for this battell ( called Shrewesbury field ) was in the yeare 1403. in the fourth yeare of King Henry , on Saint Magdalins day , and Douglas was set free at the death ( or not long after ) of K. Robert the third of Scotland , in the yeare 1406. When the Earle hard word of his death , he made shift to agree for his ransome , and so returned with all speed into Scotland . It is said , that George Earle of March did him very good Offices in England , and was a chief mean and instrument of his delivery , being reconciled to him during his imprisonment : wherefore the Earle Douglas at his return procured liberty for the Earle of March to come home into Scotland , and to be received a free Liege again ; but upon condition that he should suffer the Castles of Lochmaban and Dumbarre to remaine with the Earle Douglas and his heires , notwithstanding of any agreement made between them to the contrary in England . And so in the yeare 1411 he was restored by the Governour , after hee had remained fifteen yeares in England , or thereby , having done great hurt to his Countrey , and much good service to the Kings of England ; but for all the service hee did , hee could neither move the King to restore him , and repossesse him again in his owne , neither obtain competent means and allowance for his estate and quality . A notable example for Subjects , to learne hereby not to forsake their naturall King , and native Countrey in hope to be supported or ayded by forrain Princes : farre lesse thus to hurt and endammage their owne Countrey , for the pleasure and advantage of strangers . The black book of Scone ascribeth the restitution of the Earle of March to Walter Halyburton sonne in law to the Governour ( Gener Gubernatoris ) by marrying his daughter Isabell ( a widdow , and Countesse of Rosse ) for which he got from March a fourty pound land in Birgeam ; and that the Earle Douglas got back Lochmaban , and the Lordship of Annandale : however it bee , a yeare or two after the Earle Douglas was returned , the Earle March was restored , whereunto Hollinshed also seemeth to agree : for in another place after the death of King Robert ( which hee setteth in the yeare 1408. ) forgetting what hee had said before ( that the King dimitted Douglas frankly and freely ) hee writeth thus . Archbald Earle of Douglas , as yet remaining captive in England , after hee had knowledge of King Roberts death ( to wit , five yeare after this at least by his owne account ) made shift to agree for his ransome , and so being set at liberty , returned with all speed now at length into Stotland . Wherein he contradicts himself , and casteth downe all that liberality , and magnanimity of his King ( in dismissing the Douglas freely ) and with so much the more blemish , as in saying it was done , he acknowledged it should have been done , as it had indeed been most honourable and Princely , and might ( perhaps ) have gained the heart of that worthy Nobleman . But we find but few actions in that kind of full beneficence practised towards the Scots : and it seems that his great worth hath extorted their admiration , and some Offices of courtesie , & common humanity , such as were the preservation of his life , and curing of his wounds ; but the old grudge of Nationall quarrell remaining still in vigour , did choake the fruit of true Princely dealing , and kept it that it came not to that full maturitie of beneficence , which the party deserved , and was suteable fot such a King. Wherefore let him content himself with this honour , that his valour was acknowledged abundantly , and himself by the confession of King Henries owne Heraulds , accounted one of the chief Chivaliers and Champions in Albion : and let him thanke his own prowesse more then their kindnesse for this testimony . Wee will also adde a witnesse of these in our times , one of their owne Poets ( Samuell Daniell ) who speaking of King Henries son , who releeved his father in the battell of Shrewesbury from the Earle Douglas , he writeth thus : Lib. 3. Stanza 113. Hadst thou not here lent present speedie aid To thy endangered father neerely tired , From sierce encountring Douglas overlaid , That day had there his troubled life expired . Heroicall couragious Blunt arrayed In habit like as was the King attired , And deem'd for him , excus'd the fault of his , For he had what his Lord did hardly misse . Taking Blunt for one of those that were apparelled like the King , whereas others account him to have been the Kings Standard-bearer . But in the warres between York and Lancaster , it is more amply set downe in this sort : Lib. 4. Stanza 49. Yet here had he not speedy succour lent To his endangered Father , neare opprest , That day had seen the full accomplishment Of all his travels , and his finall rest : For Mars-like Douglas all his forces bent T' encounter and to graple with the best ; As if disdaining any other thing To doe that day , but to subdue a King. Stanza 50. And there with siery courage he assailes Three all as Kings adorn'd in Royall wise , And each successive after other quails ; Stil wondring whence so many Kings should rise . And doubting least his hands or eye sight fails , With these confounded on the fourth he flies , And him unhorses too , whom had he sped He then all Kings in him had vanquished . Stanza 51. For Henry had divided as it were The person of himself into foure parts , To be lesse knowne , and yet known every where , The more to animate his peoples hearts ; Who cheared by his presence , would not spare To execute their best and worthiest parts : By which two speciall things effected are , His safetie and his Subjects better care . And in the 54. Stanza , speaking of Hotspurre , But he as Douglas with his fury led Rushing into the thickest woods of speares , And brooks of swords , still laying at the head . Then a little after in the 56. upon the killing of Hotspurre Which thus mispent , thy Army presently As if it could not stand , when thou wert down , Disperst in rout , betakes them all to slee : And Douglas faint with wounds , and overthrowne , Was taken ; Who yet wanne the enemy Which tooke him , by his noble vertue showne In that dayes mighty worke , and was preserved , With all the grace and honour he deserved . And that was all to be preserved and respected , but not easily nor soon dismissed : for ( besides what hath been said of this point ) there is an Indenture yet extant , which contains the agreement betwixt King Henry , and him . That whereas the said Earle was lawfull prisoner to him , or to his sonne , John of Lancaster , he should have free libertie to returne to his own Countrey of Scotland , upon his giving of twelve Noble Hostages for his reentry into the Castle of Durham , being then in the custody of the said John of Lancaster . The Hostages were , 1. Archbald Douglas , his owne eldest son and heire : 2. James his brother : 3. James son and heire to James Lord Dalkeith : 4. Sir John Mongomery , Lord of Adderson : 5. Sir John Seiton , sonne and heire to the Lord Seiton : 6. Sir William Douglas , of Drumlainrig : 7. Sir William Sinclair of Hermiston : 8. Sir Simon Glendining sonne and heire to Sir Adam of Glendining : 9. Sir John Harris , Lord of Terregles : 10. Sir Harbert Maxwell : 11. Sir William Hay : 12. Sir William Borthwick . The Condition beares that upon the Earles reentry of his person into the wards of the said John of Lancaster , the said Hostages were to bee set free to repair with sate conduct into their own Countreyes , and that within fourty dayes after the Earles re-entry , or alter his death . And that the Prince Thomas , and his said brother John , and the Earle of Westmoorland should be obliged by expresse commandment from the King to secure the said Hostages , during the time of their abode , and residence in England . And if the Earle should fail of his re-entry again , that the said Hostages should be at the Kings disposing . And in case the said Earle should die , his eldest sonne and heire was to abide prisoner with the King in his sons keeping , and the rest of the Hostages were to be set free immediately . And further it was conditioned , that the Earle should do his uttermost to keep the truce that had been reated of between the King , his Counsell , and the said Earle : and that he should cause it to be ratified and confirmed by both the Realms of Scotland and England , for sixteen yeares : and in case he could not obtain that , that then the said Earle for himself , and his Countreyes betweene the East and West seas , inhabited by any of his men and vassals , should keepe truce with England from Pasch next , till Pasch thereafter . These conditions were drawn up by the Kings Councell in forme of an Indenture , whereof each had a counterpane , signed , sealed , and delivered reciprocally by the said parties at London the fourteenth of March 1407. During the time of his captivity in England , the Duke of Rothsay was famished to death by his Uncle the Governour , who being accused thereof by the King his brother , made such a slender purgation , that the King fearing he would doe the like to his other sonne James , sent him by sea to France , where he might remain in safety while he were come to years . But being driven in by storme of weather into the coasts of England , he was detained as a prisoner by the King and State. Hereupon followed the death of the desolate father , and the continuance of the Governour in his Office. And now Douglas being come home ( in the yeare 1411. ) hee kept good correspondencie with the Earle of March ever after , for there had alwayes beene friendship betwixt the two Houses ( of March and Douglas ) untill the match with the Duke of Rothsay did separate them ; and now that being away and digested , and March having furthered Douglasses delivery out of captivitie , and Douglas procured , or helped to procure Marches peace and restitution , they joyned ever thereafter in all common affaires . Some write that those two did burne the towne of Roxbrough , but it seems to bee mistaken ; for that was done ere they came home , by William Douglas of Drumlanrig , and Gawin third sonne to the Earle of March. After their return , there is no mention of any exploit of warre between Scotland and England for the space of tenne yeares : whether it were that there hath been any truce , or that Henry the fourth dying , his sonne Henry the fifth was so taken up with the warre with France , that he had no leasure to looke toward Scotland ; or that the Governour durst not attempt any thing against him , for feare hee should send home the rightfull heire to the Crowne of Scotland , whom he had in his power and custody , and who ( he doubted not ) would finde favour enough in Scotland , both for his right , and out of commiseration of his estate , and condition . So there was nothing done , except some slight and private inrodes , such as when the Earle Douglas burnt Penmoore a towne in England at which the Earle March is also said to have been in the yeare , 1414. In the yeare 1420. The Governour died , and his sonne Murdock was made Governour in his place , having been relieved a little before by enterchange of a sonne of the Earle of Northumberland . He was a man of a dull and heavy spirit , and of no authority , not so much as to governe his owne family , which made him to be little regarded : about this time the civil warre in France grew hot between , Charles the sixth King of France , Philip Duke of Burgundie and Henry the fifth of England on the one part , and the Daulphin of France on the other , for Philip of Burgundie had perswaded the King of France to dis-inherrit his sonne the Daulphin , and to give the Crowne with his daughter to Henrie of England . So that the Daulphin , ( afterwards King Charles the seaventh ) was redacted to that extremity , that his enemies called him in derision , King of Bourg , because his residence for the most part , was in Bourg in Berrie . Wherefore he being thus abandoned by his own Countrey men , and destitute of all forraign help , sent ( this yeare ) the Earle of Vandosme Ambassadour into Scotland to crave aid according to the ancient League , and made great promises to all the Scots that would assist him in this quarrell . It was willingly granted by the whole State , and seaven thousand men agreed upon , as a competent number for that service , which was soone made up of Volunteers : the youth of Scotland being now greatly multiplied by long peace with England . Their Generalls were John Earle of Buchan , and Archbald Earle of Wigton the one sonne , the other sonne in law to Archbald Earle of Douglas . Whilest they were busied in France , the Earle Douglas was not idle at home , for the black booke of Scone beareth that hee went with an army to besiege the Castle of Roxbrough , and with the Governour Murdock , against Berwick , but they returned both without effecting any thing , by reason of the treachery of some Scots ; wherefore this was named the foule roade . We reade of Douglas also how hee was judge to a duell in Bothwell-haugh , between John Hardy , and Thomas Smith : this Smith had accused the other of treason , which Hardy denying , and the other not being able to prove it by witnesses , the combat was appointed for triall of it , in which Smith ( the accuser ) was slain . The same booke also saith that ( in the yeare 1420. or 21. ) the Earle Douglas entered England , and burnt the towne of Aewels . But here it will not be impertinent for us to step over to France , and see what Buchan and Wigton are doing , seeing that this imployment gave Wigton occasion to show himself there , and did afterward also draw over his father ( the Earle Douglas ) thither : and the order of time doth also leade us to speake of those things in this place . We have told before how John Stuart Earle of Buchan , who was second sonne to the former Governour , and brother to Murdock present Governour of Scotland ) and Archbald Douglas Earl of Wigton ( whose sister Buchan had married ) were chosen to conduct the forces sent into France , to aid the Daulphin against the King of England , and Duke of Burgundie . The chief Gentlemen of note and qualitie that went along with them were Robert Stuart ( another sonne of the Governour ) Alexander Lindsay ( brother to the Earle of Crawford ) and John Swinton Knights , being arrived in France , they were received of the Daulphin with great joy , and made heartily welcom ; who gave them the Towne and Castle of Chastillion in Turrain for their rendezvous and place of retreat and resort , being a fertile Countrey , and abounding in all things necessary ; as also for that it lay neare unto the enemy , for the Duke of Clarence ( King Henries brother and Lieutenant ) was about to have spoyled the Countrey of Angiers , or as ( Hollinshed ) had spoyled it already , and had retired into the towne of Beaufort in the Vallay , and was ready to assault a towne called Vielle Bauge ( old Bauge ) some two dayes before Pasche . The Scots expecting that ( as the manner then was ) he would have abstained from all feats of armes , and have given himself to the devotion of the time : or having ( as some others say ) taken and given assurance for eight dayes , which is the space of time commonly bestowed upon that solemnitie , were somewhat remisse and negligent in their discipline . The Duke of Clarence having notice hereof by a Lombard called Andrew Fregosa ( as some say ) or by some Scottish prisoner intercepted ( as the Annals of France do beare ) who discovered to him the government of their army , and the carriage of their Leaders and Captains , was very glad of so good occasion ( as hee deemed it ) to take them at unawares , and defeat them . Wherefore he rose presently from dinner , and taking with him onely the horsemen , leaving the Archers under the conduct of the bastard of Clarence , Sir Thomas Beauford , whom he had lately Knighted at Angiers , together with two Portugall Captains to assist him , he made straight toward the enemy , saying , that he and the Nobles onely , would have the honour of that day . Hee went with great confidence to have surprized the enemy , carrying a faire Coronet of Gold on his head , and very magnificently apparrelled , as if hee had beene riding in triumph . There was a Village called little Bauge , through which the Duke was to come , where a few Frenchmen of the Daulphins side lay . These being terrified with the sudden coming of the English , got up into a steeple for safety and sanctuary : there while they make a halt , and assault the steeple , the cry riseth , and the noise of their approach was carried to the rest of the Army , whe presently ran and took armes . While they were arming themselves , Buchan and Wigton sent 30. Archers to keep a certain bridge , by which it behoved the enemy to passe over a brooke which ran in the way . These went as they were commanded , and as they were going Hugh Kennedie came out of a Church where he lay with an hundred men , but unarmed , or halfe armed , by reason of the great haste , and joyned with them : while they defended and made good the bridge , and kept off the horsemen with shot of arrowes , the Duke with the principall of his company alighted from their horse , and made such an onset upon them , that they were forced to leave the bridge and passage open for the enemy . Being past the bridge while the Duke mounteth again on horseback , and the rest of his folks are passing after him , Buchan and Wigton came upon him with two hundred horse , and enter there into a sharp conflict on both sides , both parties being ( most part ) Noble men , who were desirous of glory , and had a minde to give a proof of themselves with equal courage , and hatred . The Scots were glad to have occasion to show the French what they could doe ; and to confute their whisperings , and surmises , wherein they reproached them , as fit onely to consume victuals : and the English were moved with great indignation , that they should bee thus perpetually troubled by the Scots not onely at home , but also abrode beyond the sea in a forraine countrey . And none among the English fought with a greater courage and resolution , then the Duke himselfe : but Sir John Swinton espying him ( being easily knowne by his Coronet shining with pretious stones , and his glistering armor ) ran fiercely at him with a lance , and wounded him in the face : hee being hereby in a great fury , put forward his horse to have charged the enemy , but was encountred by the Earle of Buchan , who ran him through with a speare , and so slew him ; or ( as others ) felled him downe to the ground with a steell hammer . The rest seeing him fall , some fled , and many were slain in their flight , being pursued till the night came on . This battell was fought on Pasch Eve , in the yeare 1420. or ( as our Writers and the English ) 1421 , There were slain of the English 200. Nobles and Gentlemen : The Duke of Clarence , The Earle of Tankervill , The Lord Rosse , Sir Gilbert Wimfravill ( whom they call Earle of Angus ) John Lumlay , Sir Robert the Earle of Summerset , and his brother ( whose sister James the first did marry afterward ) Suffolk and Perch , the Lord Fitzwater , Sir John Barcklay , Sir Ralph Nevil , Sir Henry Englishes , Sir William Lanton , Sir Thomas Boroughes , were taken prisoners . There were but few slain of the Scots and French , and those meane and obscure men . This is the most common report of the Duke of Clarence his death : but the booke of Pustardan saith , that he was slain by Alexander Macklellane , a Knight in the Lennox , who also having taken the Coronet from off his head , sold it to John Stuart of Darnelay , for 1000. angels . This victory being obtained , most part by the vallour of the Scots , the Daulphin in recompense hereof made Buchan Constable of France , and morgaged the Dukedome of Turraine to Wigton , the revenue whereof at that time was vallued to 10000. crowns . The reversion of this Dutchy he gave afterward to the Earle Douglas his father , who was created absolute Duke of Turrain , and Lord of Longu-vill , and established the same to his heires male , as shall be shewed hereafter . The French Writers say also that he made Wigton Marshall of France . The King of England upon the death of his brother , came into France in May , or about the beginning of June ; and carried along with him the heire of the Crown of Scotland : ( afterwards King James the first ) thereby to divert the Scots from assisting the Daulphin , or to have made the Daulphin to suspect their fidelitie ; but none of those plots succeeded as he would have had them : for neither would they acknowledge him for their King being in anothers power : neither did the Daulphin conceive any sinister opinion or jealousie of them . Wherefore the same yeare ( or the next , to wit , one thousand foure hundreth and twentie one ) the Daulphin caused besiege the Towne of Cosme upon Loire . And Henry departed from Paris to have relieved it , but by the way hee was overtaken with sicknesse , and returned to Bois-devincins : yet he sent the Duke of Bedford with a puissant Army to succour it ; and the Scots and French finding themselves too weake to resist , rose and retired to a strength , where the rest of the Army had assembled with resolution to abide the enemies comming . While as the English were preparing to fight , newes were brought them of their Kings death , which made them to alter their purpose of giving battell . The King died about the last of August , one thousand foure hundred and twenty one , and his corps was carried into England , the two and twentieth of October . Not long after Charles King of France died also , which was the occasion that Buchan , and Wigton , with many of the Gentlemen that accompanied them , returned into Scotland . But it was not long ere the Daulphin had need of them , sent his Chancellour Rene de chartres , and the Archbishop of Rheines into Scotland to recall his Constable , but the Earle of Wigton was so vehemently sick that he could not possibly travell . Wherefore the Earle Douglas his father went in person himself , and being a Noble man greatly regarded far above any other Subject in Scotland : there went with him great store of young Gentlemen , some to doe him honour , some to bee participant of his fortunes , and most to bee trained under him in discipline of warre . So besides those that went over with Buchan and Wigton , in the yeare 1420. there went at this time with the Earle Douglas 10000. more , as saith Hollinshed . They landed at Rochell , and being to come to the Daulphin , were gladly welcomed and much made of , especially the Earle Douglas , of whom he had heard much by report , that hee was both valiant and skilfull in warre : And therefore he enstalled him in the Dutchie of Turrain , which he gave to him and his heires for ever ; having onely engaged it before to his sonne ( upon reversion ) and moreover made him Marshall of France . This hath been ( in all appearance ) in the yeare 1423. at most , yet we do not finde any memorable thing done by them , or against them , untill the battell of Vernoill , ( which if we reade our Histories ) one would think it had been fought immediately upon their landing , thought it be cleare , that it was not till after the death of King Henry the fifth , and in the second yeare of his sonnes reigne in the yeare of God 1424. The occasion whereof was this : The Earle of Bedford having besieged Ivery , the Daulphin to relieve it , sendeth the Army under the Conduct of the Duke of Turrain ( whom the French call Marshall Douglas ) of the Constable Buchans the Earle of Narbon and others . They not being able to force Bedfords camp , when they were come within two miles of him , returned towards Vernoill in Perch , which belonged to the King of England , and sent word to the Garrison there , that they had discomfited the English Army , and that Bedford with a small number had saved himself by flight . The Garrisons giving credit thereto did open the gates , and received them with the whole Army into the towne , where having left a part of their Army , they came and encamped in the fields neare the towne . Bedford having gotten Ivery by composition , or surrender , followeth them , and sent word to the Duke of Turrain by a Trumpet , that he would come and dine with him : The Duke bade him come , he should be very welcome , for all was ready . Neverthelesse , when the point came to consultation , his opinion was that they should not fight at that time , because hee thought it not fit to hazzard a battell , but in case of necessitie , and that they had no necessitie to fight at that time , in respect that they had Vernoill in their hands , and other two good townes besides , whereby they might bee plentifully furnished with provision , which the English could not have , and thereby would bee constrained to retire : But the Earle of Narbon was earnest to have them fight , and said the Nobility of France should not receive such a bravade from the enemies , and if none would fight , he would do it alone ; and so getting him hastily out of the Counsell , he began to put his men in order . The Duke of Turraine tooke such indignation hereat , that hee should offer to fight without his leave , that hee determined not to have stirred at all , and it was long before hee would suffer his men to goe forth : yet at last , thinking that it would reflect upon him if he should sit still , and see them overthrown in his sight , he armed and went forth also . But then there arose some strife for the vantguard betwixt them , which made things to be so confusedly handled , that the English got the victory , slew the Duke , Buchan , Sir Alexander Lindsay , Robert Stuart , and Sir John Swinton , with above 2000. others of all sorts . Hollinshed in his Chronicles of England saith , ( but upon what warrant wee know not ) that the Earle Buchan ( Constable ) was not slain , but lost an eye onely , and was taken prisoner : he reckoneth among the slain Sir Alexander Hume , whom our Writers doe not mention , yet it is true and knowne to them of that house : that Sir Alexander Hume of Douglas went thither in the Earle Douglas company , and was slain with him : for they tell how Sir Alexander being minded to send his brother David Hume of Wedderburn , went to accompany the Earle to his Ship , and when they were parting , Douglas embracing him kindly , said to him , would I have beleeved Sir Alexander that ever you and I could have been separated from one another : To whom hee replied , surely then my Lord , I shall not part ; and so taking his brother Davids apparrell and furniture , and sent David back : he went with him to take care for his house and children in his absence , or in case of his death : which he also did with such fidelity , and industry , after the death of his brother , that he greatly increased the estate , and purchased for a younger sonne of his brothers , called Thomas , the lands of Tiningham : and for another ( named James ) the lands of Spot : hee is said to have purchased Wedderburn for himself : but the truth is , he had it tenne yeares before , not by marriage , but by the gift of Archbald , Earle of Douglas , which must have beene the same Duke of Turrain , as the date of the evident doth clearly show , being of the yeare 1413. His sonne Archbald also entitling himself Earle of Wigton , and Lord of Longuevill , and Eskdale giveth to the same Sir Alexander Hume a bond of one thousand Nobles , dated at Bothwell the 9. of February 1424. whom it designeth Sir Alexander Hume of that Ilke , which I mention the rather to show what great freindship hath been between them . Here again I cannot passe by the sloath . and unattentivenesse of Writers sloath , ( Scottish and English ) who reckon amongst the slain , here a sonne of the Earle Douglas ( whom some call James ) and make him his second sonne , nay , some doe even make him his eldest sonne and heire , and call him Earle of Wigton . But those are all mistakings ; for the Earle of Wigton ( whose name was Archbald ) was lest sick at home , and possessed the Earledome after his fathers death : Neither was it yet James his second sonne , who was Lord of Abercorn , and outlived his older brother , and his children , that vvere put to death in the Castle of Edinburgh , to whom also he succeeded in the Earledom , as the same Writers themselves ( almost all of them ) confesse . Wherefore the Reader had need even to reade the best Writers vvith judgement and attention , seeing such escapes are incident ever to the most accurate , and carefull Historians . Touching this battell , this is the relation of it , by Duserres in his inventarie whom I have chosen to follow , not because I thinke it the fullest or faithfullest narration ( for certainly the Frensh Writers speake slenderly enough of the actions of strangers , as may bee instanced in the battell of Baugue , and other exploits done by the Scots in France , which they passe in silence ) but because his testimony cannot be rejected by the French , and may well bee admitted by the English , as being indifferent for his person , and no wayes partiall in his penne , at least in setting forth this battell : but if we shall rely upon the writings or reports of our owne Countrey men . The losse of that field was caused for the envie and treachery of the Earle of Narban . We heard how Douglas , and he contested for the vantguard , each striving who should be first : Douglas being ready sooner then he , or being quicker in his march led on before him , and charged the enemy first : whereupon he abandoned them , and would not second them as he should have done . And so it came to passe that they being destitute of his help , and not being able to make head against such a multitude , were encompassed about by the English ( who saw their backs left bare ) and so overthrown , fighting valiantly , that they might die nobly . Some blame the Lombards ( who were in the Army assisting the French that were for the Daulphin ) but tell not , why , nor wherefore , or wherein . Others say that there were 400. of them all horsemen , who being commanded to breake the rankes of the English , either in the flank or in the reare , did what they were appointed to doe : and having broken through the English Army , vvent to their carriage to pill and spoil , vvithout prosecuting their charge anyfurther : and so having got their prey , departed off the field , whereupon 2000. English Archers that were set to keep the carriage , and had now no more to doe ; entered into the battell , and being fresh and unwearied , made such an impression , that they did cast the ballance and gave the overthrow , whereas before they had fought for the space of three houres so doubtfully , that no eye could guesse , which way the victory would goe . Major also telleth us that there was some dissention between the Duke of Turraine , and Buchan , for precedency , but that is not likely : for although Buchan had the honour to bee Constable , and was the chiefe Commander , so long as hee had no other Colleague but Wigton ( his brother in lavv ) yet the Earle Douglas being an old experimented Commander , and it being ever his due to leade the the vantguard at home , and being even there , for his vvell knovvne vvorth and sufficiency made Duke and Marshall upon his first arrivall . It carrieth no appearance that the other vvould strive vvith him , especially seeing hee vvas his sonne in lavv ( for he had married his daughter ) and also the yonger souldier . And that the English did acknovvledge the Duke for Chiftane , it is evident : for Bedford sent the Trumpet to him , and hee returned ansvver : It vvas he that resolved they should not fight , and tooke it ill at Narbons hands , that he vvould not follovv his conclusion , and obey his direction : So as I cannot be persvvaded that their could , or vvould bee any difference betvveen them for that matter : And if there had beene any , they vvould have composed it , and agreed betvvixt themselves before that time , to have resisted the common enemy . However , they both died in the field : And the Earle of Narbon wanted not his reward of his either treachery , or headinesse and folly , for hee was taken and hanged as guilty of the death of the Duke of Burgundie . A notable example of the end of such as carry themselves after such a manner . Of those that escaped at this defeate , Charles the Daulphin ( afterwards King Charles the seventh ) erected a company to continue a guard to himselfe , and his successours for ever , of the Scottish Nation . For he was not contented to reward their Nobles and Leaders with honours and dignities , but thought himselfe also obliged to recompence even the inferiour sort , and to respect the whole Nation , whose valour and fidelity hee had found to deserve regarding : As also he saw their service would be steadable to him , and therefore in wisedome did thus obliege the whole Countrey , and ingage them to assist him in his warre with England . And so they did , as now , so often hereafter both within the Isle , and in France : neither could they ever bee diverted by any losse or dammage whatsoever . They did still cleave fast unto the French , untill they were fully freed from the English : sending over army after army , and Captain after Captain , without wearying or relenting , or the least shrinking : and even after this battell wee reade of divers that spent their lives in the Frenches quarrell against the English , and that within three yeares , ( notwithstanding this great losse ) who were men of quality , such as William Stuart and his brother , and two Douglasses who were predecessours of the houses of Drumlanrigge and Lochleven . There was also amongst those that escaped at this battell of Vernoill , one John Carmichell of the house of Carmichell , in Douglasdale ( who was Chaplain to the Duke of Turrain ) a valiant and learned man , who remained in France , and was for his worth and good parts made Bishop of Orleance : hee it was that during the siege thereof , did notably assist Jane D'arc , called the maiden of Orleance , The French History calleth him John de Saint Michael ( for Carmichell ) evesque d' Orleance , escossois de nation . Hee is mentioned in the particular Story of that Maiden , and in the Annales , Ecclesiae Aurelianensis auctore Carolo Sanseye Aureliano . Wherefore in the principall Church in Orleance , called Saint Croix , there is Masse said for the soules of the Scots dayly that were slain there . But to return . The Duke of Turraine being thus slain , was buried in the Church of Tours , called Saint Gratians , the 20. of August , in the yeare 1424. whose coat of armes was to bee seen long agoe upon the gates of Tours . Hee was a man no where branded for any vice , and of unquestioned valour , for so much as belonged to his own person , equall to any that were before him . Neither can I see any evident fault in his conduct and leading . It is true Major taxeth him as unskilfull and unfit for matters of warre , though hee gives him a large commendation of courage , and personall valour . But he seemeth to have grounded his censure more upon the successe , then upon his actions , to which we will answer with the Poet , Careat successibus & quisquis ab eventu , &c. Or if that will not serve , we wil choke him with the French Proverb , Le clerc aux armes , he is not a fit judge of such things . But we have to do with a more judicious indeed , who glanceth at no lesse for speaking of his father Archbald the Grimme , he saith that Chivalry stood in him ; as though hee would have said , it fell also with him : which seemeth to prejudge this his sonne ( Tine-man ) if not in his valour ( which no man can call in question ) yet in his conduct , and leading , which is the chiefe propertie and qualitie of a Generall and Commander . Of which judgement questionlesse , the ground is the same , his hard successe in his interprises . And there is no reason that hee should be thought so of for it , if there be no other cause of evill successe . But if there may bee some other reason , and if many well guided Armies , and interprises have mis-carried ( which none will deeme , there is no necessity nor just cause why he should be double burthened , both with ill luck , and the blame of it , unlesse it be shewed where and how he erred , which neither hee , nor any other Historian doth . Wee must therefore absolve him as free from this imputation , seeing they do not make it to appeare , that hee was guilty of any errour , or oversight either at Homildon , Shrewsberry , or Vernoill . On the contrary , his warinesse and circumspection may sufficiently appeare to the attentive and judicious Reader . Let not then his praise be lessened , or his glory eclipsed by his crosse fortune , nor himselfe esteemed any whit inferiour to his Predecessours . Nay , hee deserveth to have so much more praise , as that his worth doth shine through the thick cloud of the frownings of fortune , whereas their glory is increased , and lustred with the beams of a prosperous issue in their exploits . Archibaldus Duglassius Dux Turronensis , & Johannes Stuartus , Buchaniae comes ad Vernolium coesi . Gallia vos titulis ; vos gallica regna trophaeis Auxistis , meritis utraque regna cluunt , Tertia si invideant , quid mirum ingentia damna Queis data , Saxonidum dum cecidere duces , Desine lingua procax verbis incessere Testis : Gallus adest , servat tot monumenta ducum , Et vos aeternum memorabit Gallia cives Grata suos , titulos quae dedit , & tumulos . Johan . Johnston Heroes . Archbald Douglas , Duke of Turraine , and John Stuart Earle of Buchan his son in law , Constable of France , killed at Vernoill . France gave you Titles , you it Trophies gave ; Both Kingdomes , mutuall obligation have : If the third envi'd it , their losse receiv'd Might well excuse them , being oft bereav'd Of their most ancient Leaders : no bold tongue By base detraction can have power to wrong Your merit , and the French will witnes beare , To whom your memory shall still be deare : Their gracefull Monuments the same expresse , As do the places you did there possesse . Archbaldus Dux Turonensis &c. Bis victus , captusque amisso milite ; caesus Denique cum sociis , Vernoliae occubui : Dura meis raro affulsit victoria signis : Nostra tamen nusquam sunt data terga fugae . Semper at ingentes haec dextra liquit acervos , Hostibus & semper maxima damna dedit . Hinc fortis , magnisque ducis veracibus urnant Me titulis ; nec non hostis & ipse colit . In me virtutem videas , verumque laborem : Fortunam proprio quis regat arbitrio ? Discite , ab eventu qui censes facta virosque Exemplo , non sic esse notanda , meo . Archbald Tine man , Duke of Turraine . Twice with my Armies rout I lost the field ; Now with my friends , I am at Vernoil kill'd : My labours hardly met with victory , Yet did I never stay behinde , nor flie , But kill'd my foes on heaps : my valiant arme Did ever bring revenge , and equall harme . Hence was I honoured , as most fit to be A Leader , courted ev'n by th' enemy . In me you may the hight of worth behold ; But ah , who in his power can Fortune hold ? O! you , who from th' event your censures take , Disprove your selves , and me the instance make . Of Archbald the fourth of that Name , the foureteenth Lord , and fifth Earle of Douglas , he was the first Earle of Wigton , Lord of Bothwell , Galloway and Annandale , the second Duke of Turraine , Lord of Longe-ville , and Marshall of France . UNto Archbald Tine-man succeeded his eldest son Archbald : he had to wife Mauld Lindsay , daughter to David Earle of Crawford : hee was married at Dundee with great solemnitie and pompe . This alliance hath been the occasion of Crawfords going with him into France ( as wee told before ) and the ground of that friendship that was betwixt Earle William ( slain at Stirlin ) and that Earle Crawford , whereof wee shall heare more of hereafter . It appeareth also , that there hath beene continuall friendship betwixt these houses from the first Earle Douglas time , who procured a pardon for Crawford who had slain John Lyon. His children were William , David , and a daughter named Beatrix . The time that he possessed the Earledome of Douglas , from his fathers death in the yeare 1424. untill the year 1439. is fifteen yeares ; all the time of King James the first , and about two yeares in the minority of King James the second . So that the estate of the Countrey may easily bee knowne , if wee call to minde what hath beene said of the death of King Robert the third , and of Robert the Governour , to whom his sonne Murdock did succeed in the government before the King came home out of England . This Murdock , when hee had governed , or rather misgoverned some three yeares , or foure , being provoked by an insolent fact of his eldest sonne Walter ( who to despight his father , had wrung off the necke of a Hawke which hee loved ) determined in revenge hereof to send and fetch home the King out of England , and to possesse him of his Kingdome . No other motive we reade of to induce him to this ; whether it bee because there were no other , or because they have not beene carefull to set downe the true cause , I know not . But if this were indeed , it is so memorable , that it deserveth not to bee passed over with a dry foot ( as wee say ) and without observation : For who can but wonder at so rare a fact betwixt a father and a son , as the like is not extant elsewhere in any Record or History , and hath not beene heard of , I thinke , since the world stood : That a man to spite his sonne should quite a Kingdome , whereof hee was possest , and saw no other appearance but to enjoy it still . I confesse there hath beene much unnaturall unkindenesse in the world , whereby they have procured the death and destruction of those , whose safetie they were tied by the bonds of nature to maintain : but that hath beene for their owne honour and dignity , to obtain the place , or continue in it , which men doe so much aspire unto : but that their unnaturall despight should reach so farre , as to undoe themselves , and to quite a Kingdome , for obtaining and retaining whereof , ambitious men turne the world upside downe , onely to satisfie a passionate humour , or malice conceived against their owne childe ; let him that can , parrellel it , and put this up in his note booke for a second instance at least . It was for love of his Cousin , for respect to equitie , out of duetie to God , and love of his Covntrey , which he saw hee himselfe could not , and his son would not govern rightly , and therefore thought fittest to resign it to him that both could and would doe it ; it was a good , sober , wise and worthy thought . But then our Writers doe him wrong , that never signifie that such was his minde , no not in the least word : and mention onely his owne anger , and the instigation of Coline Campbell a chiefe man in Argyle , who blew the coale out of a private spleene against Walter , who had done him some injury : but however it were , whether his spight moved him to do justice , or desire to do justice caused despight , he threatned to do it to his sonne , and performed what he threatned ; for he sent Ambassadours into England to have the King released , of which this Archbald was chief , about the time of his very first coming to the Earledome . He with his two Colleagues , William Hay Constable , and Henry Bishop of Aberdene , carried the matter so wisely , that they brought it to a conclusion , which was the more easily effected , because King James married a Lady of England without portion , which they thought would move him to forget any wrong he had received by their injust detention . The Ambassadors also condescended upon a ransome to be payed , though none were due from him , who never was lawfull prisoner . So at last hee was released , came home , and was crowned King the 22. of May 1424. We have heard hitherto the rise of the house of Douglas , and the continuall increasing thereof by their great deserts , with the approbation and applause of all men , with the good will and liking of their Princes for the space of many yeares : their Princes delighting to imploy them , and they endeavouring to serve their Princes , and their Countrie to the uttérmost of their power , with a good harmony , and happy agreeing on all sides . Let us now bee contented from henceforth to find the world to bee the self still ; that is , rolling and tumbling by perpetuall vicissitudes , and changes : for though this house shall yet grow up , and to a higher pitch then ever , yet this concordance shall not continue so full , but shall beginne to have some jarring ; their Princes being jealous of them , they standing in feare of their Princes , sometimes in favour , sometimes out of favour ; sometimes imployed , and sometimes neglected : having mens affections sometimes towards them , sometimes averse from them , liking and disliking by turnes and fits . They also for their parts were now well-contented , then malecontented : now dealing in affaires , then withdrawing from all medling in State businesse , from whence did spring discords , imprisonments , banishments , slaughters : which things beginning in this mans time at his committing , strangenesse and discontents continued in the next , and proceeded in his sonnes time to his putting to death , and was transferred as hereditary to his successours , with many interchangings of smilings and frownings of fortune and Court , which at last ended in that fearefull catastrophe of the finall ruine of this flourishing family , in the yeare 1483. which troubles continued the space of 59. or 60. yeares , beginning at King James the firsts return into Scotland . For the very first yeare of his reigne , this Earle Douglas is committed to ward , but is soone released : and then within some few yeares , was committed again . For his first commitment , there is no cause thereof recorded , onely the time thereof doth furnish some matter of conjecture , together with other circumstances set downe . As for the time , it was when Duke Murdocke , and his sonnes ( Walter and Alexander ) and their Mother , and her Father , Duncane Stuart , Earle of Lennox , were committed . The circumstances are , that he was not alone , but with him twenty foure Earls and Barons were committed likewise , amongst whom there were some of the Kings owne speciall friends , and kindred : as William Earle of Angus , who was the Kings sisters sonne , and so Duke Murdokes Cousin . The Earle of Douglas was also allied with him : for Robert the Governours son , John Earle of Buchan had married Douglas sister ; and there had been cor-respondency , and friendship betwixt the Governour , and Archbald the Grimme , as also Archbald Tyne-man ( this Earles Father and Grandfather ) and Buchan and this Earle , had been fellowes in Armes together in France at Baugue : as also Buchan and Archbald Tyne-man were slain together at Vernoill . Likewise the Earle of March , who had been restored by Duke Murdocks Father , and had kept good friendship with him , and his sonne after his restitution : Robert Stuart of Roth-house , Stuart of Dundonald : John Stuart of Carden , being also of the name of Stuart , and all in some neernesse of blood to Murdock , as the King himselfe also was . The rest Hepburn of Hailes , Haye of Yester , Ramsay of Dalhousie , Haliburto●… of Dirleton , we finde to have beene dependers of the houses of Douglas and March : and the rest also , Walter Ogilbe , Alexander Setton , or Gordon , Haye Arroll , Scrimger Constable of Dundee , have beene friends and followers of the house of Douglas , as wee find they did assist and accompany them in diverse battells ; and have also perhaps had some friendship with the Duke or his Father in law , as commonly the Nobilitie are allied , and of kinne one to another . Who therefore ( thought they were willing , that their lawfull and rightfull Prince should enjoy his owne place ) would not agree so easily to the putting to death of those , whom the King was resolved to make out of the way . Now what it was that moved the King to this course , whether desire to be revenged of the cruelty of Robert the Governour ( their Father ) toward David D. of Rothsay his elder brother , or for his mis-demeanour and undutifusnesse towards his Father ( Robert the third ) or for his neglecting himself in his captivity , or for that he esteemed all that government ( of Robert and Murdock ) to be an usurpation of the Crowne , and feared the like hereafter , or even perhaps found such practisings to his prejudice , is uncertain . However being resolved to ridde himself of them , he thought it the safest way to make them fast , who hee beleeved would not be so well contented with it , as he desired . Hee did therefore commit them till he had tried their minds , and drawn them to his course , or at least taken order with them to sit quiet . And this was not long a doing : for we reade that the foresaid prisoners were all shortly releeved , and some of them also put upon the others quree ( or assise ) as Douglas , March , Angus , Arrole : But by what means he hath constrained them to be content , or what remonstrance or evidence hee hath given them , to let them see that those men were guilty of death , or what crime they died for , ( if any new conspiracy , or what else ) our Histories tell us not , which is a great defect in them : Major thinketh it likely that there was some conspiracy found against the King , otherwise they would never ( saith hee ) have condemned such men to death ( Princes of the blood as wee may call them ) and their owne especiall friends . And thus much of the Earle Douglas first committing , and the issue thereof . For the second Hollinshed and Boetius doe agree , that the K. arrest the Earle - Douglas , and kept him long in prison ; till at last , by the mediation of the Queen and Prelats , he and the Earle of Rosse were released . Boetius calleth him Archbald Duke of Turraine plainly : but Hollinshed is pleased ( out of sume partiall humour as should seeme ) to suppresse the Title of Duke of Turrain , and this is all the difference betwixt them . It was some yeares after his first committing , but what yeare ? it is not condiscended upon . Some say , it was in the yeare 1431. but impertinently , for the yeare 1430. is the yeare of his releasing , except wee will thinke that hee hath been imprisoned thrice , which is not mentioned by any . And a little mention there is of the cause wherefore hee was warded , whereof Major complaineth saying , that our Annals tell not the cause of the Stuarts executions , and the incarcerating of the Earle Douglas and John Lord of Kennedie , the Kings owne sister sonne ; for both were committed , Douglas in Logh-leeven , and Kennedy in Stirling ; for how shall it bee knowne whether it was done justly , or for matters of weight , or if for trifles onely , and for his owne pleasure . Others insinuate a cause , but doe but glance at it without setting it downe so clearely as to let men know , whether it were just or unjust , which is the light and life of History , and the right end and use thereof : for they say no more , but that they had spoken sinisterly or rashly , and somewhat more freely then became them , of the estate and government of the Countrey . What use can any man make of this generality ? rashnesse may be a fault , yet perhaps none at all in them , of whom it is spoken , they being Privie Counsellers . Likewise the phrase ( freelier than became ) is so generall , that the Reader remaineth unsatisfied : neither can posteriry ( either King or Subject ) judge of this fact , whether it were right or wrong , or whether the example were such as men ought to follow , or forbeare and avoid . It should have been expressely set downe what they spake , to whom , if to the King himselfe , or to others : In what sort , if by way of admonition , counselling , or advising , or if by forme of cavilling , detracting , murmuring , mutining , and such other circumstances , whereon the judgeing of it chiesly dependeth : In this uncertainty wee can hardly condemne or absolve , praise or censure them , In that the Lord Kennedy was of the same minde , and category with the Earle Douglas , apparently it hath not been spoken in malice , seeing the Kings nearest and his best friends ( such as these Kennedies were ) having approved thereof . And that Noblemen must not speake their opinion freely of things to the King , or if the King ( being without malice ) is very hard : for how shall a King know , that will not heare ? hee cannot know all by himself : And how shall he heare , if Noblemen have not leave to speake freely : he cannot heare all by himself . Such carriage as this hath often done Princes ill , and it may bee , hath done this same Prince no good . And what ever it was , that displeased the Earle Douglas in the government was either for the Countreyes sake , or the Kings owne sake , or for both : why might not the King thinke there might be errours ? And why might hee not then have heard them ? To have proceeded so vehemently ( for their hath been great vehemency in it ) to have cut off his owne kinsmen , and leave none but himself for the Earle of Athole to aim at : it was most important , and worthy to be considered of , whether or not it were best for him ( in policie ) to do . Doubtlesse his doing of it hath emboldned Athole to cut off the King himselfe , when all the rest were cut off first by the King. And was it nothing to lose the Nobility , to alienate their hearts ? to irritate them by imprisonments , forfeitures ? hath it not done ill thinke you , and encouraged him to goe on in his intended treason ? looking for the favour of the offended Nobility , or for neutrality , and slacknesse to revenge the Kings death . We see the King himselfe retreateth his taxations once or twice , when he saw the people grieved therewith . And wisely , in that hee was carefull to keep the hearts of the people . But was there no care to bee taken for keeping the Nobility also ungrieved ? was it enough that they would not , or durst not ( perhaps ) or could not openly rebell ? was it not something to want their affections ? to want the edge , and earnestnesse thereof ? to relent them , to coole them ? Certainly such proceedings as these have encouraged his enemies in hope of impunitie ( greater then they found ) yet in hope of it to go on with their designes , and hath furthered and hastned that dolorous conclusion which ensued . What ever the cause were , he acknowledgeth the Earle Douglas mind not to have been of the worst sort , in that he releaseth him , and in token of a full reconcilement , makes him a witnesse to the Baptisme of his two sonnes ( twinnes ) which was in those dayes no small honour and signification of good will , and a pledge of intimate friendship . He made also his sonne William ( though but a childe of five yeares of age ) the first knight of fiftie , who were dubbed at that solemnity , as the Manuscript affirmeth . By which actions , as he honoured Douglas , so did he withall honour himself in the eyes of the people , and of forrainers , gracing his Court , and that so solemne action by the presence of such a Peere , farre more then if he had been onely accompanied by Creighton and Levingston , and such new men ( who were but new and mean in regard of him ) as then but growing under the Kings favour . And so it is indeed , the Prince honoureth his worthy Nobles by his favours to them , and they grace , adorn , and decore , and give a lustre and splendour to him , and his Court , by their presence , and attendance thereat . And it is wisedome so to esteem , and so to use them ; and happy are they on both sides , and happy is the Countrey where they thus agree and concurre . This was he in the yeare 1430. in October , released out of prison , and this solemnity being ended , hee past into France , and was installed in his Dutchie of Turrain : whether he went thither for that onely , or if hee used that fairest colour of his absence , that he might not see the government , which hee disliked , and in which hee had no employment , I leave it : yet his going thither gave others occasion to grow great , and to be employed ; especially the house of Angus , which was at last the overthrow of his house . So as the honour and profit they had in France , may have been said to have beene their wrack in Scotland : what by the envie of their greatnesse , what by their absence from home , as hath beene said . So uncertain are the affaires of the world ! neither is there extant any mention of his actions in France , though at that time ( from 1430. till 1437. ) the warres were very hot there , King Henry the sixth of England being brought over in person , and crowned in Paris . It is attributed to the Earle Douglas , that he moved the King of France to require King James his daughter ( Margaret ) in marriage to his sonne ( afterward Lewis the eleventh ) and that he met her when she landed at Rochel , and was present at her marriage . He remaineth there untill the yeare 1437. in which , the 21. of February , King James was slaine at the Black friers in Saint Johnstoun by Patrick Grahame , and Robert Stuart , at the instigation of Walter Stuart Earle of Athole , the Kings fathers brother by the Earle of Rosses daughter , who pretended to be the rightfull heire to the Crowne ; and that he was wronged , and defrauded by the sonne of Elizabeth Moore , who was onely a Concubine , as he alledged . This posterity of Elizabeth Moore he had craft●…ly caused to destroy one another the Governour Robert to destroy David Duke of Rothsay , and now King James ( Davids brother to destroy the house of the Governour D. Murdock , and his children . And thus causing the King to spo●…e and weaken himselfe by cutting off his friends , none being left alive but the King and his onely sonne ( a childe of six yeares ) he was emboldened to put hands in the King also ; so much the rather , because he knew that many of the Nobility were discontented , what with being imprisoned , what with being endamaged in their goods , lands , and rents ; what with putting to death of their friends . So that he hoped that they would be wel contented with the Kings death , at least they would not take great care or paines to be revenged thereof which things if the Earl Douglas foresaw , and being grieved therewith , admonished the King thereof , or caused any other to warne him that these courses were not for his good ; this event sheweth he did the part of a faithfull Subject , Friends , and Counsellour . However , it was not so well taken by the King at that time , as being contrary to his humour , and present disposition . He did wisely also to withdraw himselfe , seeing he could not help things , as he would have gladly done . Now that the King was dead , he returns home , and was present ( as some think ) at the Coronation of his sonne James the second , who was crowned at Edinburgh the tenth of March 1437. not a moneth ( or no more then a moneth ) after the death of his father : where it is to be observed , that either the death of the King is not rightly said to be in the yeare 1437. in February , in stead of 1436. or else they reckon the yeare from the first of January , which was not the custome then . And yet Buchanan meanes so , for he sayes he was slaine in the beginning of the yeare 1437. in February , which makes me think the Earle Douglas hath not come in time to the Coronation , seeing he could hardly have used such diligence to have had notice of the Kings death , made himselfe readie , and come home out of France in so short a space , though the winde had favoured him never so much . However , through his absence , his adverse partie and faction had gotten such possession of guiding State affaires in the late Kings time , and had so handled the matter , that he was no whit regarded , nor was there any account made of him . He was not admitted to the managing of any businesse of the Common-wealth , or any publick place or Office therein . Creighton and Levingston ( the one made Protectour or Governour , the other Chancellour ) did all according to their pleasure . Our Writers say that the reason hereof was , because the Nobility envied the greatnesse of Douglas , which was suspected , and too much even for Kings . How pertinently either they write so , or the Parliament thought so , I referre it to be judged by the indifferent . He was farre from the Crowne , to which he never pretended title ; his predecessours had quit all pretension , title , claime , or interest thereto , in the time of K. Robert the second he that did claime it , and gave over , and all his posterity after him had ever behaved themselves modestly , they had submitted themselves to all government , even to be ruled by them who were but Governours onely , and not Kings ( Robert and Murdock ) as obediently in every thing as any of the meanest of the Nobility , and had never given occasion of any suspition to any man , nor taken upon them any thing beyond or above the rest , unlesse it were they tooke greater paines in defence of the libertie of the Countrey , in which they spent their lives under their Kings . And this same man in the late Kings time had behaved himselfe most humbly , going to prison once or twice , and obeying his Soveraign in all things , without the least show of discontentednesse , farre lesse of opposition . So that whatever hard opinion either the King had taken of him , or any man had put into the Kings head , hath beene without his deserving ; who if he had beene that way disposed , how easily might he have troubled the Governour , and the whole Countrey ? But suppose they did suspect , and were jealous of his greatnesse ( though without a cause ) what moved them to neglect and passe by the rest of the ancient Nobilitie ? was there none of them fit for those places ? where was the Earle of March , a valiant man , and of an ancient stocke ? Where was the Earle of Angus , the Earle of Cassils , and divers others ? They will say that Creighton and Levingston were wise men . But were they the onely wise men ? were there no more wise men in the Countrey ? Then if they were wise , were they good also ? were they just ? were they sober , modest , and moderate ? For without these vertues their wisedome was not good , but dangerous , and even ill ; chiefly when it is joyned with power , and is in authoritie . And I pray you what hath their wisedome beene ? or wherein did they shew under to the late King ? They tell not , and I beleeve it , if it be tried , it shall be found that which made him to have so short a life , that gave occasion to his enemies to take courage against him ; even their seeking of their own particular advancement , with offence , and vexing of the Nobilitie , without regarding the Kings good , or the good of the Countrey . And it must needs be so , if it were the same wisedome they show now after the Kings death . Therefore if we shall speake in right termes of that matter , we shall say that Alexander Levingston , and William Creighton , both small Barons onely , and not of the ancient bloud of the Nobilitie ; new men bent to seeke their owne profit onely , without regard to any other duty , had mis governed the State , and gotten the guiding of the late King , and drawn such a faction , that Douglas being absent in France , they had gotten all into their hands ; Levingston being made Governour , and Creighton Chancellour , who is the first Chancellour that wee reade of in our Chronicles . The Earle Douglas tooke such indignation at this , esteeming it disgracefull to the whole Nobility , and more especially to himselfe , that finding he could not bow his heart to acknowledge such men , and yet not willing to oppose or impugne them who were cloathed with authority ( which would move warre and trouble in the Countrey ) he chose , as the calmest and best course , to withdraw himselfe , and not to meddle with any publick businesse , or to take any care or share in ruling the Countrey , which he left to them to whom it was committed , and to such as had taken it upon them : with this resolution he returned home to his owne house , without further troubling of them . But that he might keepe them from infringing his liberties , and priviledges granted to the house of Douglas of old by former Kings for their good services , hee commanded such as were his to containe themselves within his regalitie , to answer to his courts , and to no other ; professing plainly that he would keepe his priviledges , and that if any man should usurp or encroach upon them , he should be made sensible of his errour . This was a bit cast into the teeth of the new Governours , and did curb them very short on the south side of Forth , he having large lands and lordships in those parts . And here their foolishnesse was quickly seene , in that they would take upon them such authority , and the unadvisednesse of those who had given it them who were not able to execute it , but by the permission of another . Hereupon also fell out great inconveniences , for the men of Annandale ( accustomed to theft and robbery ) seeing the Earle Douglas discontented , and retired ( who was the onely man they stood in awe of , and was onely able to restraine them ) they began to slight and contemne the authority of these Governours , and to molest and vexe their neighbouring Shires with driving away preyes and bootie by open force and violence , as if it had beene from the enemie . This the Governours not being able to represse , the evill increased daily , as a canker , so that it overspred the whole region ( almost ) on that side of Forth . In the mean while these jolly Governours were so carefull of the common good of the Countrey , and the charge committed to them , that in stead of thinking how to pacifie and restraine those Annandians , they fall at variance each with other , sending out contrary Edicts and Proclamations : The Governour commanding that none should acknowledge the Chancellour , and the Chancellour that none should obey the Governor ; so that when any came to the one to lament his estate , and seeke redresse ; he was used by the other as an enemie , and both pretended the Kings authority . For the Chancellour had the King in his custodie in the Castle of Edinburgh , and the Governour had the name of authority , and was in Stirling with the Queene mother : at last she under colour to visit her sonne , found meanes to convey him out of the Castle in a Chest to Stirling . And now the Governour having gotten the Kings person to countenance and strengthen his authority , went with an Army to besiege the Castle of Edinburgh where the Chancellour was . The Chancellour to make himselfe a party , sendeth to the Earle Douglas , offers to come in his will , desireth his protection , remonstrates to him the cruelty , avarice , and ambition of the Governour , telling him that he was deceived , if he thought they would goe no further then to seeke to extinguish him , and that he would make him but a step to overthrow the Nobility , and him with the first . Douglas returned answer , That the Governour and Chancellour were both alike false , covetous , and ambitious , that their contentions were not of vertue , or for the good of their Countrey , but onely for their owne particular quarrells , and private commodity , in which contention there was no great matter which of them overcame , and if both should perish , the Countrey were the better : neither could there be a more pleasant sight for all honest men , then to see such a couple of Fencers yoked together . This answer was so true : that none can or doth contradict it . Their falsehood he hath known , and that is it which men call wisedome in them by a faire name . It showeth it self in their dealing with this Earles sonne , and appeares also in their carriage one towards another , each striving who should deceive the other . Their factiousnesse likewise , ever when they durst for feare of a third , and that their contentions were but for particulars grounded upon ambition and avarice , without any care of the common wealth , the world saw it then , and it may be seen as yet . And therefore it is most true that the Countrey had been better if it had been ridde of such ambitious and avaritious Governours , seeking nothing but themselves ; and that it was not for any honest man to embroil himself in their so dishonest debates , but a pleasant show and spectacle indeed , and to be desired to see each of them ( though unjustly ) yet to doe justice upon the other . It was a free speech also , no man can deny . But they say it was not wisely spoken , for it made the two parties agree to his prejudice , and procured to him the hatred of both , at least increased their hatred : for no doubt they hated him before , and now hee might have divided them by joyning with the Chancellour . To this we answer , that seeing the Chancellour hated him , he would have done nothing , but served himselfe of him for his owne particular : either to have overthrovvne the Governour , that hee might have had all the prey and benefit alone ; or perhaps made use of his helpe to agree vvith him on better termes , and easier conditions , as vvee see they did agree at last . It vvas for no common good of the Countrey , no nor for any good vvill to the Earle : vvhat could he doe then ? vvhy should hee have meddled vvith them ? they say to have met vvith him in his ovvne craft , and to have used the one of them to overthrovv the other , that so both might have been overturned . Will men never leave these things ? such false tricks , such bastard and spurious vvisedome ? and shall vve not thinke there is another vvay besides it ? there is a true honest vvisedome , that honest men may keepe vvithout fashood , or any point , or tincture thereof , vvithout deceiving any , even the deceivers . What other ansvver did his request deserve ? vvas it not fit that such crafty companions , vvho had abused the Countrey , should heare the naked truth out of a Noblemans mouth ? Should such a Nobleman have glosed with such as they were , flattered and dissembled , and strooke cream in their mouth ? Nay , it is a part of punishment to wickednesse , even to heare the owne name given to it : And it is very fit it should have it . So that his answer cannot be justly taxed , but commended as true , just , magnanimous , and such as became his place , house and birth , without fraud or dissimulation , calling ( as the Macedonian did ) a spade , a spade ; vice by the owne name : which as he did here , so perhaps had hee done before , when hee spake of the government in the late Kings time , whereby it would appeare that such was his naturall disposition , far from all frivolous flattery , or dissimulation , either toward King or others . Indeed now these are crept in , and accounted wisedome , to the prejudice of the ancient true generositie of these great spirits , farre better , and farre more worthy to bee adorned with the full and due praise , then to bee obliquely taxed and nipped by halfe words , as not being wisely and profitably enough spoken , when there can be no just blame laid upon them . Neither ought it to be thought unprofitably said , or dangerously , seeing ( out of all question ) the same courage and magnanimity that moved him to speake the truth , made him also now to despise their persons , contemne their spleen , and slightly account of any power they had to doe him any harme , for all their joyning together . Neither is there any appearance , but that hee did it out of a right weighing of his owne and their power , and not out of any arrogancie , or idle confidence . And certainly , any indifferent man can thinke no lesse , and that they durst not attempt any thing against him or his successour after him , but after a most treacherous manner as ever any was since the world stood . So that there was not any want of wisedome in this speech , nor in this same point of profit or harme . His death followed not long after in the yeare 1438. at Rastalrigge , of a burning feaver : very opportunely & in a good time ( say our Writers ) and so it was indeed for them , and such as they were , who had now better opportunity to prey upon the Common-wealth , and spoil and use it for their best advantage . But it was unseasonably for the house of Douglas , which was left in the hands of a youth without experience ; and therefore uncircumspect , yea untimely for the Nobility , who became a prey to the avarice , and ambition of these two , and untimely for the Countrey , in that these two were now left free from the feare of him they stood most in awe of , and who might most have repressed their attempts , and bridled their appetites . This thing onely I can account worthy of reproofe in him , that he suffered Annandale to overcome the adjacent Countreyes , and did not hinder them from wronging the innocent people : hee should not have thought that it did not belong to him to hinder them , because he was no Magistrate . This if he had done , and kept justice within himself , it would have gotten him both favour and honour , and might have brought contempt upon the Governours , that could not keep peace in a more tractable and peaceable Countrey , nor amongst themselves : for how excellent a thing is it by good means to seeke honour . It would have taken away the occasion of the Calumnies of his enemies , who yet did much worse themselves : he was otherwise a valiant wise man , a lover of his Countrey , and of a free , plain , good and generous nature ; his generous disposition appeareth in his brave demeanour towards the Lord Kennedie . There being something wherein the Lord Kennedie had wronged and offended him , he conceived such high indignation thereat , that hee published his desire of revenge to be such , that whosoever would bring the Lord Kennedies head , should have the lands of Stuarton . This offer proceeded from so powerfull a man , and knowne to bee a man that would keepe his promise , the Lord Kennedie hearing of it , ( fearing hee could hardly long escape his hands ) resolved by way of prevention to be himselfe the presenter of his owne head unto him , and accordingly ( keeping his owne intention close to himselfe ) hee came privately to Wigton , where finding the Earle Douglas at his devotion in Saint Ninians Church ( a place famous in those dayes for the frequent resort of Pilgrimes thither ) immediately after divine Service , offered his head to the Earle , as one who had deserved the promised reward , and did crave it . The Earle seeing the resolution and confident assurance of the man , who had put himselfe in his power and mercy , forgave him all former faults , made him his friend , and withall gave him the reward he had promised , disponing to him and his heires the lands of Stuarton , which his successiours ( the Earles of Cassils ) doe peaceably enjoy to this day . He was buried in the Church of Douglas , called Saint Brides Church , with this inscription . Hic jacet Dominus Archbaldus Douglas , Dux Turoniae , comes de Douglas , & Longe-ville : Dominus Gallovidiae , & Wigton , & Annandiae , Locum tenens Regis Scotiae . Obiit 26. die Mensis Junii , Anno Domini millesimo quadringentisimo tricesimo octavo . Of William slain in Edinburgh Castle , the sixth William , the sixth Earle of Douglas , and third Duke of Turrain , &c. UNto Archbald Earle of Wigton , succeeded his sonne William , a youth of no great age , of an high spirit , and of a sweet , tractable , and meeke disposition . And therefore we cannot but detest and execrate the wickednesse , and treachery of his enemies , who did so unworthily cut off such a sprig in the very budding ; from whose blossomes none could but have expected passing good fruit , to the great good of the common-wealth , and Kingdome , if malice and envie had suffered it to come to maturity . Let us notwithstanding rest contented with his change begunne in his father by warding , and displacing from the roome of his Predecessours , from mannaging of affaires in the Kingdome , prosecuted against him in his life time , and now followed forth against his son . This vicissitude which befell this house , is to be found and seen in all humane affaires , and doth overturne all due and right order in the world , as farre as men can judge : for innocency is often overthrowne by cruelty ; honesty and uprightnesse of heart by craft , falshood and treachery : and yet let us reverence the Soveraigne cause , and Over-ruler of all things , who in this disorder directeth all things certainly by a great wisedome , and with good order doubtlesse , things unfearchable by man. But as nothing hath ever been so enormous , which may not receive some colour , either of vertue to make it seem good , or at least of some extenuation to make it seem not so ill , as it is : So this fact amongst others I perceive to bee of the same kinde : by some thought to be good ( but very ignorantly , or maliciously ) by some excusable , both in form and in fact , by a necessity , or pretext of the common good ; by all that have written , more slenderly handled , and doubtingly , then ought to be . For they leave it almost uncertain what ought to be judged of it , whether it be good or ill : so that sometimes you would thinke they condemne it , sometimes they allow of it , and none of them deals with it so fully , as reason would they should doe for the information of posterity , and according to the right law of an History : but as men do with nettles which they would gripe , they are affraid to handle them heartily and hardly . Now that this so instant a fact may the better appeare in the owne colours , I will labour to wash away the painting and plaister wherewith the Authours would so fain ( but falsely ) overlay it ; or wherewith mens judgements ( whereof many are but halfe wise , and perceive but the half of matters ; not plumming and sounding the depth and ground of things so well as were needfull ) may be deceived by others , or may fancy to themselves for excusing of it , that we may learne to detest and abhorre so detestable and horrible facts with a true detestation and abhorring in earnest and effect , that Posterity may know and condemne , and avoid the like practices . And for this purpose , before wee come to the narration of the fact it selfe , we will speake something of the Authours thereof , Levingston , and Creighton , and their actions in the last Earle Douglas time . We heard before ( and wee must not forget it ) how well these men guided the Countrey , what care they tooke of the Common-wealth ; or to say better , how little care they tooke of it : how they cared for nothing save their owne particular , under colour of the Common-wealth : each striving to disgrace other by their private speeches , and open Proclamations : so greedy and ambitious they were , that howbeit they had all the Countrey between them , yet it could not satisfie , or content them : they could not so much as agree between themselves , to divide the spoil , and part the booty peaceably and quietly , which theeves and robbers , and Pirats are wont to doe without discord or injustice . But they had not so much modesty , but fell at variance ; spoyling , fighting and besieging one another , till remembring themselves that a third might come and take the bone from both , they were so wise as to agree for feare of him I meane the Earle Douglas : and that they did so , more in that regard , then for any good to their Countrey or love they bore one to another , it soone appeared after his death : for incontinent thereupon they returned to their old byas , and the agreeance that was made for feare of him , lasted no longer then he lived : wherefore Levingston being Governour , and having the King also in his custody , being freed from the feare of the Earle Douglas , respected the Chancellour Creighton no longer , but began to despise him , and though now there was no band to binde him any longer to him , hee would give him no share of his bootie and spoil of the Countrey , but would needs keep all to himself . This was his ambition , or avarice , or both ; for ambition would be alone in all , and likes of no equall , no fellowship , no copartner . And avarice might also have moved him to this , for guiding all , he might take all : and if hee made the other partaker of the guiding , he behoved to make him partaker of the gain : and therefore hee would none of his assistance in the government . But let us see now how well he governed , hee imprisoneth the Nobles at his pleasure , upon light grounds of suspition onely , yea he casteth them into fetters . The third of August 1439. he warded the Lord Lorne and his brother Sir James Stuart , who had married the Queene Mother , upon suspition onely for their dealing with the Earle Douglas , and did commit the Queen her selfe to bee kept in a close chamber in Stirling Castle , of which hee himselfe was Captain : so that she could not get her selfe released , untill there was kept a Convention of the Lords , then by the intercession of the Chancellour and some others , she was dismissed , having given Sir Alexander Gourdon ( alias Seton ) who was the first Earle of Huntly , surety and cautioner for her , that she should pay 4000. markes to the Governour . This was his iniquity , yea tyranny , and barbarous abusing of Noblemen , and yet he gave remissions , and pardoned men guilty of great crimes , or passed them over by conniving . The Chancellour therefore ( who thought hee should have his share of the booty ) seeing his life thus debouted by the Governour , and not being able to help it , nor to have patience , and sit quiet , it being more then he could digest or beare with , retired him from Court to Edinburgh Castle , there to bee safe in his Fort , and lie in wait for the first opportunity that hee could finde to supplant Levingston . Neither was he slow in coping of him : for before the yeare was ended , hee tooke occasion of the Governours going to Perth , and knowing by intelligence the time and place of the Kings hunting in the fields about Stirling , thither hee rides , and bringeth him away to Edinburgh Castle . By this means the dice are changed , he had now gotten the durke ( as our Proverb goes ) he will divide the prey over again , he will have his large share of all , and direct all now , as Levingston had done before . The other finding himselfe in this strait , might lament his case , but could not helpe himselfe : necessity hath no law . The Chancellour had yeelded to him before , when he ( or the Queene for him ) stole away the King. Now he hath gotten a meeting , he must yeeld to him again , and so he doth : Bowes his bonie heart , goes to Edinburgh , gets mediatours , brings on a meeting , and finally agrees by the mediation of Henry Lighton , Bishop of Aberdene , and John Innesse , Bishop of Murray . But if you would see the right face of a stage play , deceivers , deceaving , dissembling , and putting a faire outside on their foule falshood , and proceedings ; reade me there harangues on both sides , that you may either laugh or disdain them . I cannot take leasure to set them downe at length ( as they are to bee found in our Histories ) but in a word , you shall finde nothing but pretexts of the Common-wealth , of the Publike peace , the good of the King , and the well being of all honest men , which is all joyned , and depends upon them , and their well being forsooth . That hath been still their scope , that hath beene the aime of all their intentions , no particular , no ambition , no avarice ; onely love of those things which were common and profitable unto all ; and because in them all did lie and subsist , in their standing honest men did stand , and by their ruine honest men did fall ; nay , the King and Countrey were ruined . For this cause and for no other , that the Countrey might bee well , that wickednesse may bee bridled , they forgive one another , avouching that their discords arose onely from diversitie of opinion , and judgement ; while as both seeking the common good , one thought one forme the best for it , and the other another form to bee best for it , and the other another forme ; which if it were true , let what hath been said above beare witnesse . It would make a man to loath speaking vertuously , to see vertue by them so farre abused ; yet the old Proverb might have warned them : ( Oportet mendacem esse memorem ) and sometimes a liar will speake truth is verified in them . They confesse their ambition , and striving for honour and preheminence , they are ashamed to say for goods and riches , but it was no lesse true , and both were alike faulty , and they exhort one another , and promise to amend thereafter by a better strife , who should be most moderate and just . But they were as true in keeping that promise as they were in their discourse what was past . When the Foxe preacheth , take heed of the hens ( saith the Proverb : ) we shall see notable moderation and justice , such , as the world hath scarce seen the like example of treacherous tyranny . This is the sum of these jolly men harangues . The conclusion is a new friendship ( if falshood be friendship ) or rather a conspiracy against the Countrey , and directly against the Noblemen , who ( their conscience telleth them ) hate them as new men , lifted up to the highest degree ( as they grant themselves ) and that was reproach enough to the Nobility , and an argument of their unworthinesse . But they might have said as truely , that they were hated for abusing the King and Countrey for their private advantage , under pretext of the common wealth , which whether the whole Nobility resented or not , we cannot tell ; for there is no mention , and it is a wonder if they did not , yet it would seem they did not : they had stouped and taken on an unworthy yoake of slavery . But what ever the rest did , there was one that was a sore thorne in their foot , and moate in their eye , it behoved to be pluckt out . The Earle of Douglas was of the old spirit , of the ancient Nobilitie : he could not serve , nor obey but whom he ought , and the lawfull commanders , lawfully commanding for his honour and utility , whereof they were neither . Such a spirit is unsufferable , under these new conspiring Tyrants : he will not acknowledge their authority , his father had told them their holy dayes name , himselfe tooke them for his enemies . But how shall they doe with him ? hee is not easily to bee dealt with ; they must have muffles that would catch such a cat . Indeed he behaved himselfe as one that thought he would not be in their danger , hee entertained a great family , he rode ever well accompanied when he came in publike , 1000. or 2000. horse , were his ordinary train . He had great friendship , and dependance of old , he had been carefull to keep them , and had also increased them , and conciliated many new followers and clients by his beneficence and liberality , and his magnificence , which was answerable to his place , suitable for an Earle of Douglas , and Duke of Turrain ; which Dutchie he had obtained himself to be invested in , as heire to his father : having sent Malcolme Lord Fleming , and Sir John Lawder of Basse , ( or Haton as others say ) into France for that purpose ; and was well accepted of in remembrance of his father : and grandfather , he had all his affairs in singular good order : he had his ordinary Councell , and Counsellours for guiding his affaires : he dubbed Knights also , as he thought men worthy ; which power and priviledge he did not usurp out of pride , nor take upon him by imitation to counterfeit Kings ( as some would insinuate ) but by vertue of both his dignities of Duke and Earle . And although he were but fourteen yeares of age at his fathers death ( in the yeare 1438. or 39. ) and was put to death in the yeare 1440. not having attained to fifteen or sixteen , or little above at the farthest , yet in this his port and behaviour , did not onely appeare the sparks of a great spirit , but also of such wisedome and providence as could scarce bee looked for from so young a man. This galled them so much the more to thinke if that fruit should come to ripenesse at any time , how poysonable , or rather , how great a counterpoyson it would prove to their greatnesse . But here the skinne of the Lion would not serve their turne ( he was too hard for them to deale with by force ) they doe there sow that on that of the Fox . The occasion fell out thus : During the time of the jarres betwixt themselves , the common affaires were neglected between stooles , and partly because they could not ( being but meane men of small power ) partly because they cared not to prevent , or to amend things , many insolencies were committed without redresse . The men of the Isles had come into the main land , had put all to fire and sword , men , women and children , young and old , farre and wide , omitting no kinde of example of avarice and cruelty : and that not onely on the Sea coast , but in the Lennox also : out of the Isle of Loch-lomond ( called Inch-mertin ) they had made an appointment with a Gentleman , named John Calhoon ( Laird of Lusse ) as if it had been to end some businesse and slain him ( the 23. of September ) with many such things , and many fowle facts had beene done in divers parts of the Countrey . Likewise Sir Allane Stuart of Darnelay was slain at Paselay , by Sir Thomas Boide ; and again , Sir Thomas Boide was slain by Alexander Stuart of Belmot ( brother to the foresaid Sir Allane ) and his sonnes , through which there arose great troubles in the west parts of the Countrey and Kingdome . The Borderers had not been idle , who living under the Earle Douglas , and being his followers , or retainers , what they did was interpreted to be done by his allowance . And at a Convention in Edinburgh many complaints were given in against him , but never a word spoken of the taxe of Isles men : never a word of Levingstons and Creightons own doings , who had warred one upon another , not a word of any other slaughter or bloudshed , but as though nothing were amisse in the Countrey , but what was done by the Earle Douglas dependers ; they onely were complained of . Whether the cause was in his enemies , and that this proceeded from them , or was done by their instigations , our Histories tell not , neither can we affirme it : yet it is strange , that there being so many more , and more enormous faults ( for the Isle-mens were more hainous ) none should bee taken notice of but his mens . Theirs are exaggerated , multiplied , and made odious ; and the envie thereof derived upon the Earle , as Authour of all : hereupon Sir Alexander Levingston , ( carrying malice in his heart , but dissembling it for a time , with a false deceitfull minde ) perswaded the rest , that the Earle Douglas was rather a man to be dealt with by fair means , then to be irritated by suspicions : As one who had such power , that if he should oppose himself , he might frustrate all their conclusions & decrees . Wherefore he procured a letter to be written to him in an honorable manner in all their names , intreating him , that being mindful of his place , mindful of his Progenitours , whose good deeds and deservings , most ample and notable towards his Countrey of Scotland , were still extant , he would come to the Convention of the States , which could not be conveniently kept without him , & his friends . If he had taken offence at any thing , they would satisfie him so far as was possible . If there were any oversight committed by him , or any of his friends , they would remit it , and would forgive many things to his most noble house which had done so many good offices , and so much good service to his Countrey . They would impute many things to the times , and consider his youth , and the great hope and expectation they had of him That hee should come therefore , and take what part of the affairs of the common-wealth he best pleased , and as his Ancestours had often delivered the Realme from dangers of warres by their armes and victories , so that he would be pleased now by his presence to raise it , and establish it almost sunk , & overthrown with intestine discords . This letter as it was honest in words , and very right , carrying that right course that should have been used towards him , and the duety that all these reasons contained , craved to have beene done to him , if it had been in sincerity : so being in falsehood , and with a treacherous intention , used onely to entrap him , makes their ditty the clearer : for he ( out of the honesty of his owne heart ) interpreting their meaning to be according to their words , and being of no ill disposition , but of a sweet and tractable nature , desirous of glory by good means , that so hee might have followed the footsteps of his Predecessours in all good offices to his Countrey , not having so great malice in his minde , and therefore not thinking any could have so great in theirs against him , as to seeke his life , ( for there had been no such occasion , their contentions with his father had not come to that hight and degree , but had been contained within the bounds of words onely ) and therefore not imagining that so great villany could have been harboured in their hearts , he willingly embraces the occasion of making peace in the Country , & that he might contribute thereto his best endeavours , taketh his journey for Edinburgh . His friends are reported to have furthered him in this resolution , in hope of their owne particular imployments and preferment , which ( say they ) blinded their eyes that they saw not the danger . But truely I cannot fee how they could have seen any perill , unlesse wee will say that they might have knowne that the Governour and Chancellour were treacherous men , and had given some proofe of as great disloyalty before , which is not mentioned any where that we know of ; for though they were knowne to be subject and inclinable to falshood ( as his father had objected to them before ) yet it was so well covered , that it was not accounted falshood , but wisedome : for there are degrees , and there bee many who will dispence with themselves to step something aside from the strict rule of uprightnesse ( which is accounted simplicity ) that will bee ashamed of so high a degree of manifest treason , as this was . So that howbeit they knew their falshood in some measure , yet could they not have looked for such proditorious dealing : besides it might have seemed to any man in discourse of reason , that if they cared not to blot their names with the foulnesse of the fact , yet they could not have great hope to gain or profit much by it : for what could it avail them to cut him off , seeing another was to succeed in his place , as ill ( perhaps ) as he ? so that by putting of him to death , all that they could gain would bee but an irreconcileable deadly feude with that house , which was too high a degree of enmity for any thing had yet been amongst them , being nothing but grudges , and such things as might have been easily taken away . So that ( sith the discourse of man for ought we can judge , could never have reached so farre as to have suspected what followed , but rather to have looked for the contrary ) I see not how the Earle nor his friends can be blamed for credulity , or how it can be censured in him as a defect of his youth , and proceeding from want of experience : for what otherwise could he have done , if his experience had been never so great ? or himselfe never so old ? neither is there sufficient ground to tax his friends as if their hopes had blinded them so that they could not see any perill which no discourse of reason could see , or apprehend . It is true , men ought to be circumspect , but it is a fault also , and proceeds of an ill nature to be suspitious , as he might well have seemed to bee , if hee had refused to come . The event showes there was cause to suspect the worst : but I deny that reason could foresee that event , or any , considering of the circumstances , could have made one to have looked for it : neither can any man save himselfe from such treason , neither can it bee reputed as simplicitie to the sufferer , but as a monstrous enormity to the doer . To returne to our purpose , their disloyall practice stayed not in this smooth letter : they double fraud upon fraud : for so soone as Creighton knew he was on his journey , he came many miles to meet him , and inviting him to his Castle of Creighton ( which was neare the way he was to go ) he feasted him , hee cherisheth him , hee entertaineth him friendly , cheerfully , and magnificently : and that not for one day , but two dayes , kindly , with all the tokens and demonstrations of a friendly minde that could be given . And to remove all suspition of unfriendlinesse , and the more circumvein him , he admonished him familiarly , that hee would remember the royall dignity of his Prince , and his owne duty towards him . That he would acknowledge him for his Lord and Soveraigne , whom the condition of his birth , the lawes of the Countrey , and the consent of the estates had placed at the rudder of the Common-wealth : that he would labour to transmit his so great Patrimony acquired by the vertue of his Ancestours , and with spending of their bloud to his Posterity , even so as he had received it : that hee would be carefull to keepe the name of Douglas , which was no lesse illustrious and renowned for their faithfulnesse , then their deeds of armes , not onely from the foule blot of treason , but even from all stain of suspition , or aspersion thereof : that hee himselfe would abstain , and cause his men to abstaine , from wronging the poore people : that hee would put from about him theeves and robbers : finally , that in time to come he would set himselfe to maintaine justice , that if hee had offended any thing in times past , it might be imputed not to his naturall disposition , but to ill counsell , and that infirmity of his youth , penitency would be admitted , and accepted as innocency . Venemous Viper that could hide so deadly poyson under so faire showes ! unworthy tongue , unlesse to be cut out for example to all ages ! Let not the Poets bee thought fabulous , who have transformed men into beasts ; loe a beast composed of many beasts : a Lion , a Tiger , for cruelty of heart : a Waspe , a Spider , a Viper , for spight & malicious poysonablenesse : a Foxe and Camelion , for falsehood and doublenesse : a Cockatrice and Crokodile , and whatsoever nature hath brought forth , that is deceitfull and hurtfull , a sweet singing Ciren , enchanting the outward sences to the destruction of the listner , so much the more odious , that it was in the shape of a man ; and the more detestable , that it durst so pollute the image of God , so abuse the glory of man : the speech of the tongue therefore given him ( beyond the beast ) that he might imploy it well to informe aright , to speake truth , and to do good to others . The honest heart of the hearer that knew what he spake was right , and intended to follow so good counsell , taketh all in good part , beleeveth the speech for the truthes sake , the man for his speeches sake . And who could have done otherwayes ? who would not have thought that he who knew so well what was right , would have had some regard to doe right ? shall we account it childishnesse , that he accounted so of them , and suffered him to be so deceived ? nay , hee could not keep himselfe undeceived . Good men , and wise men have often been deceived both in sacred and prophane Histories . We must not impute it to childishnesse in Abner , that Joab stabbed him under trust , but esteeme it vile treachery in Joab , of whom David sayes , Hce dieth not as a foole dieth , howbeit his hands were not bound , but as a good man falleth before a wicked man , that is by treason , which no man can eschew . It is said that his friends seeing so extraordinary entertainment , so faire language above measure , so humble behaviour , and withall so many messages ( at every step almost ) betwixt the Governour and the Chancellour , tooke some suspition of ill meaning , and that there arose first a still murmure through the whole company ; thereafter some began to admonish him , that if he would persist to goe on , he would send back his brother David , being mindefull of a precept of his fathers , That they should not come both together into one place where themselves were not masters , lest they should endanger their whole family at once . The unwary youth ( unwary indeed ; but what warinesse could he have poore innocent ? ) and very well inclined , even angry with his friends , stayed those murmures by a plain commandment , and assured his friends thus : That he knew well it was a perpetuall pest of great houses that they had ever about them some men that were impatient of peace , who made gain of the perils , travels , and miseries of their Lords and Patriarkes : and because in peace they were restrained by the bridle of the law , they were ever stirring up strife and sedition , that in troubled times they might have greater scope and liberty to their wickednesse . As for himself , hee reposed more upon the known wisedome and prudencie of the Governor and Chancellour , then to give eare to their suspicious surmises . This speech thus uttered , testifying both an acknowledging of the evill past , and a resolution to amend , was it not sufficient to have purged whatsoever errour had been , or might have been thought to have escaped him before ? And certainly it would , if these men had regarded Justice , or the good of the Common-wealth , and had desired to reclaim him from his errours , and winne him to his Countrey . But his so full confidence thus reposing on their credit , was it not enough to have tied them to have kept their credit ? If there had been any spark of humanity or nature of man left in them : and if they had not beene worse then savage beasts . Trust deserveth that we should prove worthy of that trust , and credit procures keeping of credit ; where all humane nature is not extinct , and even simplicity deserveth favour and pitie . Neither can a man that is not altogether given over , and hath not sold himselfe to wickednes choose but favour it , and have compassion of it ; yea though he had been otherwise disposed in the beginning , it would even move any mans heart ( that were indeed a man , and not changed into a beast ) to favour and commiserate , and would have tamed and calmed any former discontentment , and have wrung from them any evill intention which they might ( perhaps ) have conceived before . However , this noble youth goeth on in the innocency of his heart , and that the more quickely , to cut off all occasion of such speeches , and with his brother , and with a few other principall friends goeth directly to the Castle , ( being led as it were and drawne by a fatall destiny ) and both enter , and so come in the power of those their deadly enemies and fained friends . At the very instant comes the Governour ( as was before appointed betwixt them ) to play his part of the Tragedy , that both might bee alike embarked in the action , and beare the envie of so ugly a fact , that the weight thereof might not lie on one alone : yet to play out their treacherous parts , they welcome him most courteously , set him to dinner with the King at the same table , feast him royally , intertain him chearfully , and that for a long time . At last about the end of dinner , they compasse him about with armed men , and cause present a bulls head before him on the boord : the bulls head was in those dayes a token of death ( say our Histories ) but how it hath come in use so to bee taken , and signifie , neither doe they , nor any else tell us , neither is it to be found ( that I remember ) any where in any History , save in this one place : neither can wee conjecture what affinity it can have therewith , unlesse to exprobrate grossenesse , according to the French , and our owne reproaching dull , and grosse wits , by calling him Calves-head ( teste de Veau ) but not Bulls head . So that by this they did insult over that innocencie which they had snared , and applaud their owne wisedome that had so circumvented him : a brave commendation indeed , and an honest ! yet I wonder what they meant by entertaining him so well at that time , there was some reason for it why they should have done it by the way , that they might worke out their treason , untill he were within their thongs : but being now within the Castle , and fully in their power , I wonder what it should mean to make him so faire a welcome , to feast him so liberally and solemnely at the Kings table , and from thence to bring him to the shambles : what could have beene their intention ? might they not have conveyed him to some private chamber ? might they not have carried him to the place of execution ? what needed all this processe ? what needed they to have let him see the King at all ? It would seem as if they had not been fully resolved upon the businesse before ; and that their intentions and purposes were not treasonable , but that they tooke occasion to be treasonable from the facility to atchieve it : but our Writers are cleare against that , and say onely it was pre-concluded , when he was written for . It might seeme also that they did this to communicate the matter , or to transferre it altogether upon the King : but he was too young , and purges himselfe by disproving of it . So that I can see no other reason of it , but as the Lion with his prey , or ( to use a more base , yet a more familiar example , and the baser the fitter for them ) as the cat with the mouse , which she might devoure immediately , yet it pleaseth her to play a little with it : So they for their greater satisfaction , and contentment , delight to play out their Sceane ; so strangely ( notwithstanding ) that such processe and uncouth formes of doing might seem to import some mystery , and deeper reach then ordinary : which I confesse is so profound and deep a folly , and mischantnesse , that I can no wise sound it , unlesse it were that the Noblemans place , and his worth forced their wicked hearts to acknowledge it notwithstanding their wickednesse : And although the acknowledging could not prevaile so farre , as to make them leave off the enterprise , yet did it in some sort brangle their resolution , and wrung out this confession of his worth : as all the actions of wickednesse , and all wickednesse in the acting , are full of contradictions , as this same is most clearly : for if this Nobleman was guilty of death , why is he brought into the Kings presence ? why is he set at his table ? If he was not guilty , why was he put to death ? So difficult a thing it is in a lie to keep conformity , either in a lie of actions ( so to speake ) or in a lie of words ! In words it is difficult so to speake that the attentive hearer shall not perceive contrariety : In actions it is impossible that they can be dissembled . This action is a lie , for it saith he is guilty of death ; but their welcomming of him , their setting of him at the table with the King , and their feasting , sayes , he is an innocent , Noble , worthy man ; Indeed onely truth in word and action can accord with it selfe : as it is uniforme , it floweth from unitie , tendeth to it , and endeth in it , and keepeth the taste of the fountain from which it cometh . So they having given this confession of his worth , and again , ( by that ominous signe ) contradicted their confession , must needs be false witnesses however it go . The young Nobleman either understanding the signe as an ordinary thing , or astonished with it as an uncouth thing , upon the sight of the Buls head offering to rise , was laid hold of by their armed men in the Kings presence at the Kings table , which should have beene a Sanctuary to him . And so without regard of King , or any duty , and without any further processe , without order , assise ( or jurie ) without law , no crime objected , he not being convicted at all ; a young man of that age that was not liable to the law in regard of his youth , a Nobleman of that place , a worthy young Gentleman of such expectation , a guest of that acceptation , one who had reposed upon their credit , who had committed himselfe to them , a friend in mind , who looked for friendship , to whom all friendship was promised ; against dutie , law , friendship , faith , honesty , humanitie , hospitalitie ; against nature , against humane society , against Gods Law , against mans law , and the law of nature , is cruelly executed , and put to death : They , ( in despight as it were ) spitting in the face of all duty and honesty , proclaiming ( as farre as lay in them ) there was no dutie to God nor man to bee regarded . And that the measure of their wickednesse thus heaped and shaken , and prest downe might also runne over ; all this was done ( as it should seem ) without the consent , nay , against the will of their King and Soveraigne , who wept at their execution , and forbad them to meddle with his Cousin : the shamelesse men chid him for weeping at the death of his enemy ( as they call him ) during whose life ( say they ) hee needed never to looke for peace , whereas they themselves were his chiefest enemies , and greatest traitours to him , and besides him to God and nature , and to the office of Justice which they bore ; bringing a blot on the one , and the other , and bloud-guiltinesse upon his Crowne , so farre as lay in them . This is that detestable fact never enough to be extracted , which I have laboured indeed to set forth in the owne simple colours , stripping it naked of all farding ( though I confesse no words can equall the wickednesse of it ) that men may learn to detest such things wherein may bee seen what respect they have carried either to justice , to equity , to common peace , or Common-wealth ; that thought it better to root out such a plant , then to dresse and to cherish it ; to ruine such a house rather then to gain it , which they never would have done , if their private pride and avarice had not had the greatest sway with them . I thinke all honest minds should disdain to reade what they gave out before of their love to the publike good , having here so terribly belied it : neither should any man speake of it indifferently without a note of detestation ; neither extenuate it by the Earles simplicity , which seemes to diminish and lessen this execrable perfidie , and cruelty . If this were the wisedome , whereof they had purchased an opinion and name under the former King James the first , and if they had practised such things as this , it hath been a bitter root , and hath brought forth a very bitter fruit , and hath , in all appearance been no small part of the cause of hastening his death , and the emboldning of his enemies unto it , as indeed I finde some of our Writers inclined to say ; for such new men goe commonly about to perswade Princes , that ancient Noblemen are enemies to them , and barres to their absolutenesse , which is it that these men here mean , in saying that the Earle Douglas was an enemy to the King. Not that he bare any ill will to the Kings person ( for that they could no wayes make appeare ) but because he was so great a man : According to that generall rule , that greatnesse in the Nobility is dangerous for the Prince , and as if to be a great man were by infallible consequence to be an enemy to the King. Which maxime I feare they have beaten into his head afterwards , not so much to strengthen and provide for his security , as to draw him to their party for strengthening of themselves : for we see all their intentions aime but at their owne particulars ; and so in this they intend nothing else ; onely they colour their particulars with the Pretext of the Kings service , as they doe this wicked fact also . David Douglas the younger brother was also put to death with him , and Malcolme Fleming of Cumbernald his speciall Counsellour . They were all three beheaded in the back Court of the Castle , that lieth to the West . This augments yet their wickednesse , that they execute his brother also , whose age behoved to be lesse then his owne , who was but very young too , as wee have said . These were good Tutors and bringers up of a young Prince , thus as it were to bait him with the bloud of his Nobility , and to imprint such a lesson in his tender minde that they were his enemies . But for conclusion of this matter , concerning these young men , as there was no law laid against them , so is there no History that beareth witnesse that they were guilty of any capitall crime . And Major saith expresly , Apud Annales legi , quod viri illi non erant rei mortis , sed consilio & dolo Gulielmi Crighton , Scotiae Cancellarii haec perpetrata sunt : That is , I reade in our Annales that these men were not guilty of death , but this matter was atchieved by the counsell and fraud of Crighton Chancellour . It is sure the people did abhorre it , execrating the very place where it was done , in detestation of the fact : of which the memory remaineth yet to our dayes in these words . Edinburgh Castle , Towne and Tower , God grant thou sinke for sinne ; And that even for the black dinner Earle Douglas got therein . Now sith these youths were not guiltie , whereof were they not guilty that put them to death ? and with what note of infamy to bee branded ? Though some seeme to blame this innocent young man ( as they cannot deny him to have beene ) with halfe words , as guided by flattery , given to insolency , presumptuous in his Port , yet is there no effect , or affection brought importing either his being addicted to flattery , or that hee was more insolent , presumptuous or arrogant , then became a man of his ranke . But contrary , that he was of a gentle nature , a repulser of flatterie ( now as hee grew in age ) and of due magnificence , such as well became him . Let us therefore account of him so , as one that was singular in respect of his yeares . And let the blame lie fully on his enemies , who shall finde some meeting hereafter from their Cousin ; that they may finde all the house perished not with him , though indeed the punishment was not proportionated to that which they deserved . In Gulielm . & David fratres in Arce Edinburgena trucidatos . Vestra Sophocleo caedes est digna cothurno , Vestra Thyestea coena cruenta magis , Vos scelere atque dolis , vos proditione necati , Insontes , puerique & patriae proceres : Regius & vestro est foedatus funere vultus : Qui fertur siccas non tenuisse genas . Haeccine ( Rectores ) vestra est prudentia tanta ? Haeccine laudatur justitia ? haecne fides ? Exemplum aeternis nunquam delebile fastis Perstat fraudis atrae , persidiaeque trucis . In English thus , Your murther may deserve a tragick Muse , Your horrid dinner justly might excuse Thyestes feast , by a more treacherous train Drawn to the axe , more barbarously slain Then was his sonne : your Princes guiltlesse eye Stain'd with the sight , wept at the cruelty . Is this these Rulers wisedome ? this their love To Justice ? this the prudence men approve So much ? O! blacke example fit to be Mark't in eternall scroules of infamy . Of James ( called Grosse James ) the third James , sixteenth Lord , and seventh Earle of Douglas , Lord of Bothwell , Abercorne , and Annandale , the fourth Duke of Turraine , and Lord of Longe-ville . UNto William succeeded his fathers brother , James Lord of Abercorne , in all the lands that were intailed , but Beatrix , sister to the said William , fell here to the rest that were not entailed , which were many ( say our Writers ) specially Galloway , Wigton , Balvein , Ormund , Annandale . This James was called grosse James , because hee was a corpulent man of body : he had to wife Beatrix Sinclair daughter to the Earle of Orknay , but which Earle it is not expressed . To finde it , wee must consider , that from 1 William Sinclair ( the first that came out of France , and married Agnes Dumbarre , daughter to Patrick first Earle of March ) 2 the next was Henry his sonne , who was married to Katherine daughter to the Earle of Stratherne . 3 His sonne called Henry , also married Margaret Gratenay , daughter to the Earle of Marre . 4 This Henries sonne , Sir William passed into Spain , with good Sir James Douglas , who carried the Bruces heart to Jerusalem ; hee was married to Elizabeth Speire daughter to the Earle of Orknay and Shetland , and so by her became the first Earle of Orknay of the Sinclaires . The second Earle was 5 William also , who married Florentina daughter to the King of Denmark , the sixth person , and third Earle was ( his son ) Henry who married Giles ( or Egidia ) daughter to the Lord of Niddisdale . The seventh person and fourth Earle is Sir William , who married Elizabeth Douglas daughter to Archbald Tine-man ( the first Duke of Turrain ) and sister to this James the grosse . Now this James his wife cannot have been this last Sir Williams daughter , for then she should have been his owne sisters daughter . And therefore she hath been either Henries ( that married Giles Douglas ) or else Sir Williams , who married Florentina ; which of the two I leave it to conjecture ; her great spirit , and high ambition would seem to argue that shee was come of Kings , and near to them : but the Monument in Douglas calleth her daughter to Henry . She bare to this Earle James seven sonnes , and foure daughters . The name of the eldest was William , and the second James , who were Earles of Douglas , both of them by succession , as we shall heare . The third , was Archbald , who married the daughter of John Dumbarre Earle of Murray , brother to George Earle of March , by which means he got the Earledome of Murray . The fourth , named Hugh , was made Earle of Ormond , and had sundry lands given him by the King in Tividale and Rosse . The fifth John was made Lord of Balvenie . The sixth Henry was Bishop of Duncalden . George , the seventh , died before he was fifteen yeares of age , as our Chronicles do witnesse ; but there is no mention of him in the monuments at Douglas , where the rest are set downe by name . As for his foure daughtets , 1 Margaret the eldest was married to the Lord Dalkeith . 2 Beairix the second , to John Stuart Duke of Albanie , Constable of Scotland , and Captain of fifty men at armes in France . The third was named Jennat , and was married to the Lord Flemine of Cumbernauld . Elizabeth ( who was the fourth ) died unmarried . This Grosse James his eldest sonne William , partly to hold up the greatnesse of his house , partly by the Ladies owne desire , ( who directly refused to marry any other of the name of Douglas ) married Beatrix Douglas his Cousin : She was called the faire maiden of Galloway : and so by this match the estate of Douglas was preserved intire , and those lands which shee would have been heire to , and divided from it , were kept in their owne hands . This match was made farre against the opinion of the rest of the name of Douglas , who thought it better that she should have been married to some of the house of Angus or Dalkeith , alledging that the house of Douglas was too great already , and that their greatnesse would be the ruine of the house , which maxime although it proveth often true , that too great Dominions under Princes , as also Princes themselves having so large extent of territories , and other republicks , and Common-wealths , when they come to that hugenesse that they cannot easily be governed , do fall , and are overthrown by their owne weight : and the conspiracies and combinations of neighbouring Princes , or States ( who feare , and are jealous of their excessive greatnesse ) or by their Subjects within , either through the Princes jealousie ( who suspects them ) or others envie , who stirre jealousie in the Prince , and draw him to suspect them . And therefore all , both Lordships and Empires , are to be restrained and kept within a mediocritie , and that as well Princes , and Common-wealths , as subjects ; which all men will confesse : but what this mediocritie is , they declare not , neither will they confesse , or doe they ever thinke that they are come to that fulnesse , that there is any danger of exceeding so farre , as to procure their overthrow , or breed any perill . It is said of Augustus Cesar that he intended some moderation of the Empire , and had resolved to have propagate it no further : yet it was doubted upon what ground it was that hee thus resolved ; whether out of prudencie , or of envie toward his successours , that none might goe beyond him , or adde any more to it then he had . And it is indeed a hard matter to perswade men , and perhaps no lesse difficult to prove , for all agree that these inferiour things ( even all of them ) are in a perpetuall fluxe and motion , and that they cannot stand long at a stay , without going either forward or backward , increasing or decreasing . If therefore they goe not forward , they must goe backe ; if they doe not increase , they must decrease : which if it be true , it were better to seek to increase so long as men may , then to take them to a standing , from which they must decrease , if they doe not increase . But whether out of that discourse of reason , his friends of the name of Douglas would thus have perswaded him not to become too great , for feare of falling , or for any particular of their owne , or whether he for this other reason , or rather for the common disposition of men to presse ever forward , I know not , but hee chose to bee great , and take his hazzard . And because the two parties were within the degrees prohibited by the Romane Church ( Brothers children ) he sent to Rome for a dispensation , which being long in coming , and he fearing least the King , and the rest of the name of Douglas would cast all the impediments they could in the way to hinder the match ( which was also reported , and not without ground ) caused hasten the marriage before the dispensation came , and that in Lent too , a time forbidden also , and which is more , on the friday before Pasch , called commonly Good-friday . This was thought ominous , and the unhappy event confirmed this opinion . They were married in the Church of Douglas . Some write that this marriage was procured and made by the young man himselfe , after the decease of his father . However , this was a speciall cause of dissention , and division amongst those of the name of Douglas . For the actions of this grosse James , wee have no particulars recorded in Histories , either in his brothers time , or his nephewes time , or now when he cometh to be Earle himselfe . There is no mention at all made of him , whether he did any thing for to revenge the murther of his nephewes by Creighton and Levingston : belike as he hath been corpulent , so hath his corpulensie caused a dulnesse of spirit , as commonly it doth . Some write that he was Warden of all the Marches , and his Monument at Douglas agreeth with them , and sayes that hee was a great justiciary . Others write that he was no ill man , that hee entertained no disordered wicked men , but yet he did not represse them sharply enough , and therefore was suspected by the King , and disliked by many : hee died in Abercorne within two yeares , or not three ( sayes the manuscript ) after the marriage of his sonne , which hath not been long in the making . Wee may ghesse it most probably to have beene not fully three yeares , and so that he died in the yeare 1443. Hee was buried in Douglas , where on his Tombe he is called ( Magnus Princeps ) and amongst other Titles , Lord of Liddisdale , and Jedward Forrest : his wife is styled Domina Aveniae , Lady of Avendale . His Epitaph there is yet to be seen thus , Hic jacet magnus & potens Princeps , Dominus Jacobus de Douglas , Comes de Douglas , Dominus Annandiae , & Gallovidiae , Liddaliae , & Jedburg-Forrestiae , & Dominus de Balveniâ , magnus Wardanus Regni Scotiae versus Angliam , &c. Qui obiit vicesimo quarto die mensis Martii , Anno Domini millesimo quadringentesimo quadragesimo tertio . 1443. His Wives is thus : Hic jacet Domina Beatrix de Sinclaire , ( filia Domini Henrici Comitis Orcadum , Domini de Sinclaire , ) Comitissa de Douglas , & Aveniae , Domina Gallovidiae . His Childrens thus : Hae sunt proles inter predictos Dominum , & Dominam generatae . 1 Dominus Gulielmus primò genitus , & haeres praedicti Domini Jacobi , qui successit ad totam haereditatem predictam . 2 Jacobus secundò genitus , Magister de Douglas . 3 Archibaldus tertiò genitus , Comes Murray . 4 Hugo quarto genitus , comes Ormundiae . 5 Johannes quinto genitus , Dominus Balveniae . 6 Henricus sexto genitus . Margarita uxor Domini de Dalkeith : Beatrix uxor Domini de Aubignia . Joneta uxor Domini de Biggar , & Cumbernauld . Elizabetha de Douglas , quarta filia erat . In English thus , Here lies a great and powerfull Prince , Lord James Douglas , Earle of Douglas , Lord of Annandale , and Galloway , Liddesdale and Jedbrough-Forrest , and Lord of Balveny , great Warden of the Kingdome of Scotland towards England , &c. Hee died the 24. day of March , in the yeare 1443. His Wives is thus , Here lies the Lady Beatrix Sinclair , daughter of Henry Lord of the Isles , Lord Sinclair , Countesse of Douglas and Evendale , Lady Galloway . Their Children . These are the children betwixt the said Lord and Lady : 1 Lord William his eldest sonne , and heire to the said Lord James , who succeeded to all the foresaids lands . 2 James the second sonne , Master of Douglas . 3 Archbald , the third sonne , Earle of Murray . 4 Hugh , the fourth sonne , Earle of Ormund . 5 John the fifth sonne , Lord of Balvenie . 6 Henry , the sixth sonne . Margarer , wife to the Lord of Dalkeith : Beatrix , wife to the Lord Aubignie : Jenet , wife to the Lord of Biggar and Cumbernald : Elizabeth Douglas was the fourth daughter . Jacobus Crassus , Duglasii crassique mihi cognomina soli , Conveniunt : O quam nomina juncta male . James the grosse . To be a Douglas , and be grosse withall , You shall not finde another 'mongst them all . Of William stain in Stirling Castle , the seventh William , and eighth Earle of Douglas , the sixteenth Lord , and fifth Duke of Turrain , &c. UNto James succeeded his sonne William , a man of another mettall , and resembling more his Grandfather , and Cousin , ( who was put to death in Edinburgh Castle ) then his father , who did remember , and imitate more his Cousins diligence , then his fathers negligence , for hee endeavoured by all means to entertaine and augment the grandure of the house by bonds , friendship , and dependances ; retaining , renewing , and increasing them : and therefore his marriage of his Cousin Beatrix is attributed to him , and is thought to be his owne doing , and not his fathers . Upon his first coming to be Earle , his first care was to establish some certain order for his affaires : for which purpose hee conveened his whole friends at Dumfreis , made choice of his Counsellours , createth his Officers for his rents and casualties , and settleth a constant order in his house . Great was that house ( as hath been said ) and doubtlesse it was nothing diminished by him , but rather increased by the accession of his fathers estate ( which he had ere he was Earle ) and his wife : which being added unto the old Patrimony of the house , made it to surpasse all others that were but Subjects : for it had beene ever growing from hand to hand , since the time of Lord James slain in Spaine , continually , who had the Lordship of Douglas onely at the first . To it was added the Lordship of Galloway by Archbald , slain at Halidoun-hill . By Archbald the Grimme , the Lordship of Bothwell . By Archbald the third ( called Tine-man ) the Dutchie of Turrain , and Lordship of Longe-ville . Annandale , and the Earledome of Wigton , by Archbald the fourth : and now the Lordship of Abercorn , by Grosse James . So that his revenue hath beene huge at this time , as appeares also by the ranke hee ever carried , as second in the Kingdome . His dependance and following may bee judged by these his Lordships , and estate , and for his other friendship , there were divers houses of the Douglasses ; as Angus , Morton , Drumlanrigge . By his alliance he had Aubigny , and the Lord Fleming of Cumbernauld , who had married his sister . By his mother , the Earle of Orknay by his wife , at ( Beatrix ) the house of Crawford , of which her mother was a daughter , beside the old friendship that was ever betwixt them . And this may be seen by History , who list to observe it , whereof more may be found by a more accurate disquisition . Thus enriched , thus waited on , thus followed , thus served , thus underpropped , and sustained by wealth , friendship , dependance , alliance , and kindred , his power and greatnesse was such , as was not matched under the Prince by any in this Kingdome . But here is the maleheure , the Principalls of his owne name ( Angus and Morton ) assisted him not , but divided themselves from him ; and either were not his friends , or even became enemies , as wee shall heare hereafter . What the occasion thereof was , is not directly mentioned : some thinke it was the discontentment they had conceived at his marriage , either because they accounted it unlawfull , or because some of them would have had her to themselves , which is the more likely , or in respect of their kindred with the King , who was indeed induced ( though not yet ) to think hardly of him ; or out of emulation of his greatnesse , as an hinderance to their growth , which was Bishop Kennedies opinion to his brother , the Earle of Angus : and so it falleth out often , where a decay is to come upon a house , it first divides from , and within it selfe , yet that was but an insensible point at this time ; his owne greatnesse being such as would scarce suffer him to finde the losse ; standing as it were not by any friendship , but meerely of himselfe , and upon his bottome . At the very first , when hee entred to the Earledome , he entred also ( as hereditary ) to the enmitie of the two grand guiders of the time Levingston and Creighton , with whom the hatred tooke beginning in his Uncles time , and was thereafter traiterously , and cruelly prosecuted by them , on his two Cousins : it continued , though coldly , in his fathers time , and was now quickned and revived by himselfe . They would needs lay the blame of whatsoever disorder happened in the Countrey upon him ; not onely of what fell out in the borders ( where hee commanded , and might command indeed ) but even in the Highlands also , that which John Gorme of Athole did ( who fought with the Laird of Ruthven , and would have rescued a thiefe out of his hands ( being apprehended by him as Sheriffe ) if hee had not beene defeated , and thirtie of his men slain by Ruthven ) they would have it to bee thought that the Earle Douglas forsooth had an hand in it . But it is well that our Writers say , it was but thought so : and thought it had beene said so by his enemies , there is no necessitie to beleeve it was so , for they had done him more wrong , and dealt more treacherously with him , then to make such a report for me , it soundeth not in my eares , that it had so long a foote , or that John Gorme could not doe such a thing without the Earle of Douglas , or that the Earle Douglas would meddle with such a matter . This I thinke , that in his owne bounds he would suffer none to acknowledge the Governours , which was his Uncles course , as we heard , seeing he was himselfe to bee answerable for them . It was his fathers way also ( though more coldly according to his naturall disposition ) as may bee gathered of that which is said , that he repressed not theeves , though he entertained them not : which is as much as to say , as he was not Authour , or occasion of their theft , yet he being no Magistrate himselfe , and others having taken the government upon them , he would let them beare the weight of their owne charge in executing thereof , and would not help them therein by restraining any . And that so much the rather , because having murthered his Nephew , he could not with credit employ himselfe to ease them of their burthen by his assistance : he did them no hurt , he could not with honour do them any good . So hee lets them alone , doing to them neither ill nor good , then which I thinke he could not do lesse . And where just cause of enmity was , how could it be more modestly used ? Except they would have had him ( after such a vilanous fact ) to go creeping under their feet ( as we say ) which the meanest man will not doe after the smallest injurie . And even where there is no injury , unlesse men reape some benefit , they will suffer others to do their owne part , and not help them , where they have no interest either as belonging to their charge , or from whence they may gather some profit . It is true , he onely could doe that service , and there was no ability in them that had the charge , but he was not obliged to supply their inability : and why should they have taken on them ? or why should the States ( which I thinke did not , but that it was done by faction ) have laid it upon them , that were not able to discharge it ? This was not wisely done , and it is the very point of the errour in the Estates ( so called ) and the ground of all the inconveniences that fell out , for they chose men that had not power to discharge the Office , and such as had , did let them do it alone ; and withall ( perhaps ) disdained their preferment , as being without merit , for wee see no merit in them by true vertue : hereon arose discontents , then grudges , then crossings , then blamings , and reproaching in words and deeds , growing at last to an open enmitie . Of such great importance is it , to make right choice of men for employments . And such wisedome is requisite in the choosers ( bee it Estates , be it Princes ) not to follow affection , but to consider worth and ability rightly , and to employ accordingly : which if it be not done , it carrieth with it infinite inconveniences , & hath troubled many Estates , yea , ruined them ; and it must needs be so . Happy State , happy Prince , yea , happy he whosoever , that having a necessity to imploy others ( as who hath not ) imployeth according to reason , and not affection , or hath his affections ruled by reason ! which if hee doe not , it shall disgrace the imployer , breed disdain to him that is imployed , and bring contempt upon both , which will burst out with occasion , and not long be curbed , and kept in , thought it lurke for a time . It may bee this Earle of Douglas hath gone further then his father in showing his contempt of these justice-bearers . It may be hee hath borne with the Bordermen , and been more slack in repressing of them , ( for his father repressed them , though not enough ) because hee had intention to imploy them ; being more sensible of the wrong done to his Cousins , & had a greater eye to revenge it , and therefore was loth to controule these men of service , further then the mere necessity of his place did require at his hands , whereof the rule ( in the eyes of the people ) was to save all men from that misery as farre as he could : in his owne eyes , the rule which he propounded to himselfe , it was to protect his friends and dependers ; and for his adversaries , to rejoyce perhaps at their smart , if not to procure it : as for neutralls , to leave it to the Magistrate to redresse what is amisse , not perceiving by that mean , he doth more hurt the Countrey , then his enemies , and wounds his owne credit more then their reputation : and therefore he lost more by furnishing them with some ground of obloquie , offending the people and honest men , then he gained by the hurt of his adversaries , or favour of broken men . Nothing is more popular , yea nothing is more profitable then justice , ( say all Writers ) not to mean and private men onely , who incurre the danger of law by injustice , but even to great men , even to Princes , who if they incurre not the danger of lawes , being placed above the reach thereof , yet doe they lose the most profitable instrument of all their actions , by which they must needs worke , and without which they cannot , the hearts of men : It feareth me , too many think it enough to have their hands , to have their bodies at command , but let no man thinke he can have their bodies , if hee have not their hearts : neither their heart , if hee have it not indeed , in a high measure of affection . Who hath no measure of affection , can have no action of the body to any purpose , and a slacke affection produceth but a slack action , as it hath ever proved . So that in effect , policy hath that chiefe object to worke on the affections of men , and that not to deceive , or force them ( for neither of these can worke well and long . ) Neither is it sufficient that a man see not a present evill , as a Prince a present insurrection , a great man a present losse of his followers , and favourers ( which falleth out sometime , but not alwayes . ) Oftentimes it is like a canker , working by peece-meale , insensibly , from degree to degree upon the affections , til it hath consummated the worke of disgrace of the party it seazeth on , and winded their favours out of the hearts of men . As commonly mens actions that procure it are of the same sort , not all in an instant , or at one time , but one ungratious fact cometh after another , and another again upon the necke of that , and so forth . This therefore is so much the more diligently to be taken heed of , and eschewed in the beginning ; or if any errour escape , to be taken up and recompensed by amendment , or some other gratefull action importing as much favour , as the errour did disdain : neither must the affections of men be suffered to coole , languish , and to bee eaten up at unawares , till at last they utterly decay and perish . Thus ( we may see here ) he hath not been well advertised by those of his house of Douglas , which before were the most esteemed , the best beloved , and favoured universally almost by the whole Countrey . But now , while as they would trouble the Governours , and let their inability bee seen , and for that end either beare with theeves , or suffer them , they are not aware , that by this mean they suffer an ill opinion of themselves to creep into mens minds , and that love of the people to diminish by peece-meal , for the space now of three or foure mens lives . And whereas they were wont with their heritage to succeed to a generall favour of the people , now on the contrary , they succeed to a grudge , and ill opinion , and so an universall dislike , which at last hath done away all that wonted love , and turned it into hatred ; which did greatly advance and further the plots of their enemies against them , and made that their greatnesse odious , that was accustomed to be favoured . It is very true , that the men against whom he set himselfe , had used no good means , abused there Offices , abused their Countrey , and the name of the King , and Common-wealth for their owne particular ; yet he should not have used ill means , no not against ill men ; and the bare name of authority is of weight in the eyes of men , as the name of theft odious ; from any countenancing whereof , Noblemen should be farre , as also from seeming to rise against any manner of Authority , though Authority bee put even in mean mens hands , as these were ; chiefly when the opposers of Authority can make no other end appeare , but their own private , and that blotted with the enormities of broken men : yet what shall be given to a just anger ? what unto the time ? what unto youth ? all these plead pardon , if not approbation ; The rather for that he taketh up himself from that sort of doing , so soone as hee can get a right King , to whom he might have accesse , and to whom he might yeeld with honour which was ere long . The next yeare , 1444. the King taketh the government on himselfe directly . Thither immediately the Earle Douglas concludeth to addresse himselfe , and by all good means to obtain his favour ; to satisfie the people , to satisfie all men that were offended , and fully to change that course he had before followed . Certainly repentance is worth misdeed : and it may bee seen , that the force of enmity hath driven him into these faults , which as soone as he can , he layeth aside . So coming with a great company to Stirlin , he deales with the King by the intercession of such as were about him ; and finding that he was appeased , goeth on , and puts himself and his estate in his Princes will , partly purging himselfe of the crimes past , partly confessing them ingeniously ; and telling him , that what ever estate he should have from that time forth , hee would owe it to the Kings clemency , and not ascribe it to his owne innocency : That if the King would be contented to be satisfied by good Offices , hee would endeavour not to be short of any in fidelitie , observance , diligence , and good will towards him : That in repressing and punishing of theeves ( whose actions his enemies laid upon him ) there should no man bee more severe , nor more carefull : That he was come of a house that was growne up , not by doing injuries to the weaker , but by defending the weaker and common people of Scotland by arms . Certainly a true conclusion , & undeniable by his greatest enemies . But I have thought good to set downe all as it was conceived : for whether there was any fault or not , his submission was great , and his repentance sufficient to purge it whatsoever it were . Such is his respect to his soveraigne Prince ; and such the force of authority rightly placed in the due owner thereof . And such was also the force of truth in his speech , that the King , understanding that it was true in his predecessour , and hoping it would be true in himselfe , moved also by the private commendation of his Courtiers , not onely passed by , and forgave what ever had been amisse in his life before , but also received him into his most inward familiarity , and did communicate unto him the secrets of his counsell : Neither was the Earle unworthy thereof for his part , but behaved himselfe so well , that within a short time hee acquired the favour of the King by obedience ; of his Courtiers , and servants , by liberalitie , and of all men by gentlenesse , courtesie , and modestie , and put the people in hope that he would prove a meeke and sober-minded man. The wiser sort doubted ( say our Writers ) whither so sudden a change would turne . But why should wee thinke it a change ? or if it were a change , it was very casuall , very apparant , and nothing to be wondred at : for it is this in effect : he had been untoward to base men , why should he not yeeld to his King ? hee had slighted the shadow of authority in them , why should he not acknowledge and reverence the beames of it in his Prince ? he had beene froward to his enemies , why not gentle to his friends ? he had sought to make them smart that wronged him , why not cherish those that did him good offices ? he had warred on them , that had warred against him : why should hee not keep friendship with those who kept friendship with him ? certainly , these are not changes , neither of nature , nor of manners , but are commonly ( wee see ) in one and the same nature , and proceed from one and the same cause , which is greatnesse of courage , and regard of due honour . The greater despiser of basenesse , the greater reverence of true greatnesse , the greater repiner against compulsion : the gentler and calmer being used courteously : the harder enemy , the faithfuller and sweeter friend : so that wee may suspect these mens wisedome , that did so farre mistake his true courage , and accounted that a change , which was but a continuation of his inbred disposition . Two men are designed to have taken fray at the matter , whose consciences were guilty of what they had deserved : Alexander Levingston , and William Creighton , not for the change of his manners , but for the change of his credit . They had traiterously slain three innocent Noblemen , his two Cousins , and Malcolme Fleming . They had kept himself back from his Prince , and his Prince from him , and were sory that ever they should have met in a friendly sort . They would have been glad to have blowne the bellowes of dissention , to have irritated the one , and misinformed the other , made their owne quarrell the Kings , and so have caused the King and Countrey to esteem of it . They were now disappointed of that , and the Earle had accesse to informe the King of their misdemeanour in their Office , and to move him to call them in question for it . They knew hee would remember the wrong done to his Cousins : they knew how unable they were to answer for many of their facts , and therefore they retire themselves from Court : Levingston to his owne house Creighton to the Castle of Edinburgh which hee had still in his keeping . Neither was the Earle Douglas negligent in this occasion , that was thus offered to seeke justice by law and by justice , to be avenged of his enemies for the wrong done by them against law . Wherefore he diligently informed the King from point to point , of their misbehaviour in their Office : how they had abused him , abused his rents to their owne private use , and moved him to call them to an account thereof , whereupon being summoned to a certain day , they durst not compeir ; but to set a faire face on the matter , they answered by Procuratours , or by letters : That they were ready to give an account of their government , that they had beene very carefull of the King and Countrey , desired nothing so much as to give an account thereof before equall Judges . But for the present , when the minds of men were preoccupied with the favour of their enemies , and all accesse closed with armed men , the King behoved to pardon , that they did eschew not to come to judgement , but to come in the danger of their deadly enemies , and keep their lives for better times : when the Captain of theeves , being removed from the Kings side ( which they had of times done before ) they would approve their innocency to the King and all honest men . These reproaches , and brags touched , and were meant of the Earle Douglas . Him it was they called Captain of theeves , because of the border men , of whom many were his followers . That they removed him often before was idle boasting : for he had abstained to come to the King , so long as the King was in their custody , so long as he was in the Castle of Edinburgh , where they might have murthered him , as they did his Cousins : That he was their enemy , he denied not , and had just cause so to be : but to take that excuse from them , he gave them assurance he should not proceed against them any wayes , but by order of law ; and offered for that purpose to goe from Court , till they should come to it in safetie . And to meet their reproach ( of captain of theeves ) and their boasting of the just administration of their Offices , hee was ready to prove that they themselves were theeves , that they had stollen the Kings revenues , and distributed to their friends , and converted them to their owne particular use , and that they had traiterously against justice murthered his Cousins , whereof he besought the King to grant him justice ; and so a new charge was given out , and another day appointed for them to compeir . Which being come , and they not compeiring , they were denounced rebells , in a Convention kept at Stirlin the fourth of November , and their goods and moveables confiscated . Thereafter John Forrester of Corstorphin ( a depender of the Earle Douglas ) is sent with a power of men , to intromet with their goods ; who having received their houses , some he razed , some he manned with new forces , and provision : and so without resistance he returned , laden with great spoil . Hee was scarce retired , when Creighton assembled his friends and followers so suddenly as none could imagine , furrowed the lands of Corstorphin , together with the lands of Strabrock , Abercorn , and Black-nesse , and amongst other goods , he drave away a race of mares , that the Earle Douglas had brought from Flanders , and were kept in Abercorn , doing more harme then he had received . This may seem strange to any man ; neither do our Histories sufficiently cleare it , either where he got these forces , or whither he carried the goods . They insinuate , that he was aided and assisted under-hand by Bishop Kennedie , and the Earle of Angus and Morton . Angus was the Kings Cousin germain , sonne to his fathers sister , and by her , brother to the Bishop : Morton had married the Kings owne sister . But of these , the Bishops power lay beyond Forth ; ( for he was Archbishop of Saint Andrewes ) and the Earle of Angus further ( beyond Tay ) : so it is hard to conceive , either how they could suddenly assemble to their folks , or that they could conveene many ( except such as Angus had on the South side of Forth in Liddisdale , Jedward Forrest , and Bonkle ; likewise Mortons lands and friends were ( most part ) on the same side of Forth ) to make assistance against the Earle Douglas . But how ever apparantly , they did it not openly ; and this , it was against order , against authority , and against Law : and if the Earle Douglas had done it , it would assuredly have been called an open Rebellion against the King , theft , oppression , presumption , arrogancie , insolencie , and faction , as we heard it was before , when he contemned the Governours onely , and as it will be called ( perhaps ) hereafter . If men alledge , that the King was guided with the Earle Douglas counsell , and his name used to a particular onely : tell me ( I pray you ) was there ever any thing more formally than this against Creighton ? And if the Earle Douglas his particular was in it , what then ? how many actions of justice are otherwise done without instigations of private men ? without the mixture of their cause ? without their particular suiting ? and particular insisting ? and if it be lawfull to any to seek justice for his own particular , the Earle Douglas his particular was such , as very well became him to insist in : the wrong so manifest , the murther so vile and traiterous . And if that which is done against the lawes shall not be accompted wrong , nor esteemed to touch the King , because parties have their particular in that law , none or few things shall be accounted to be done against the king , or against law ; for there is almost ever some particular joyned : and the same hath been and wil be the Earle Douglas his case . This therefore cannot be accounted innocencie ; yea no lesse then open violence , and plaine rebellion , and presumption against the Earle , clad now with justice and lawes , and against the king as protector , and Patron of justice . No marvell then if the Earle Douglas was offended herewith , both for his own cause , whom the losse touched so neere , and for such manifest contempt of the King , and if therefore he seeke to be avenged thereof . But there was a different forme to be used , according to the different actours ; of which we see there are two sorts , Creighton and Levingston were open enemies , open actours ; they themselves obnoxious to the law ; against them the law will strike , and so he proceeded with them : he besieges openly Creighton in the Castle of Edinburgh , and no question he had taken from him before whatsoever was without it . The others , not open enemies , and actours themselves , they were but secret stirrers up , abetters , and assisters of his enemies ; and among them Bishop Kennedie was the chiefe plotter and deviser ; the law could not well be had against him ; he must be met with in his owne way , he had done besides the law , he must be met with besides the law : he had done disadvowedly , he must be met with disadvowedly . Therefore he writes to the Earle of Crawford , who with Alexander Oglebee of Innerwharitie gathered a great hoast , entred , life , and without resistance spoiled the Bishops lands , either because they could not get himself , or because they had a greater minde to the bootie , then to the quarrell . The Bishop using his own weapons , curseth them ; but they made small reckoning of his curses . Neverthelesse shortly after there fell variance between Crawfords eldest sonne ( the master of Crawford ) and the Oglebees about the Bailliarie of Arbroth : for the Monks had given it from the Master to Innerwharitie , and hereupon having assembled their forces on both sides , they were readie to fight it out . But the Earle of Crawford ( having gotten advertisement ) came into the field to have composed the busines , and trusted they would have respected him , and not have offered him any violence , he entred in between the two parties ; where having stayed his sonnes companie ; he was going over to speak with the Oglebees to have brought matters to a parlee , and treatie . In the meane time one that neither knew what he was , nor what his intent was , runnes at him with a spear and slayes him : hereupon the battells joyning the victorie fell to the Master of Crawford , there being 500. slaine of the Oglebees side , Alexander Oglebee taken , and the Earle of Huntly escaping on horsback . This victorie was obtained chiefly by the valour of the Cliddisdale men , of whom the Earle Douglas had sent about 100 to assist the Master of Crawford . This Master of Crawford was now Earle ( his father being slaine ) and was called Earle Beardie , of whom there will be mention made hereafter , he being that Earl with whom Douglas is said to have entred into league ; though we see there was friendship betwixt them now , the Earles Ladie Beatrix being a sister daughter of the house of Crawford , besides the old friendship that had been ( ever since the first Earles time ) betwixt the two houses . In the mean time the siege of the Castle of Edinburgh ( where Creighton was shut up ) had now continued some six or seven moneths , from the midst of July ( as appeareth ) unto the beginning of February in the next year : for there being a Parliament called , to be held at Perth , it was removed to Edinburgh , that the siege might not be interrupted , and sate down in the beginning of February 1445. The siege lasted two or three moneths after , which makes in all some nine moneths , or thereby : at last both parties ( the besieger and the besieged ) being wearied , the Castle was surrendred to the King , on condition that Creighton should be pardoned for all his offences which he had committed against the King , and should be suffered to depart life safe , which was granted unto him : Our Writers term them the offences which he was said to have committed against the King : As if they should say , There was no offence indeed done to the King : And more plainly a little after , as in all contention , he who is most strong would seem to be most innocent : which sayings are to be judiciously considered , and accurately weighed , whereof we have spoken before : But if they will needs have it so , we will not be contentious . Thus Creighton , not so much hurt , as terrified , escaped due punishment by meanes of the Castle , which could not easily be taken , but by composition . Whether this was through the impatience of the Earle Douglas , that would not take leasure to wait on the siege , untill they should have been forced to yeeld for want of victuals ; Or whether Creighton hath had some secret friends at Court , who did make use of this occasion to work his safetie , there is no mention . But Levingstone leapt not so dry-shod , being no lesse guilty of his Cousins murther . The Earle had bent his just indignation against him also , and caused summon him to the Parliament of Edinburgh , together with his sons , James and Robert Levingstons ( this Robert had been Thesaurer ) and David Levingston his Cousin : His friends also , Robert Bruce of Arth , with James and Robert Dundasses . The Lord Levingston himself , with the two Dundasses , were convict , forfeited , and condemned to perpetuall prison in the Castle of Dumbarton . The other three , James , and Robert his sons , and David his Cousin , and Bruce also , were execute : What the crimes were that were laid to their charge , whereof this difference of punishment did arise , it is not written , either by the old or late Historians . This appears , that it hath been no particular of the Earle Douglas ( of which the father was most guiltie ) and that their Processe hath not been guided and ruled by him , nor framed according to his spleen , which would have aimed most at the old man , as accessary to the death of his Cousins , whereas we see he escapes with imprisonment onely : His sons are hardlier used , being put to death : So that it must needs have been for some other crime , whereof the acts of Parliament that are extant in print makes no mention , or particular relation , as the forme is ; and James Levingston in his speech at his death purgeth himself , as free of all true crime , what by being innocent of some , & having obtained a remission of others ; yet he mentions not what was alledged against him ; wherefore we must leave it as uncertaine . Some conjecture , that it was for keeping of some castles , and strong houses , and not rendring them to the King being summoned , against an act of Parliament made by Creighton before , by which act Creighton also himselfe was forfeited afterward ; but we know no ground for that opinion . They alledged also another act ( which only is extant ) the other not being extant ( and may seeme to sound something that way ) made in the second Parliament , in the yeare 1488. against the re-setting of rebells in castles ; which imports no keeping of houses after they be charged , or summonedto render by the Kings officers ; but only commands to arrest their persons , or to take surety , and baile for them that they do no harme : Neither is there any penaltie ( much lesse forfeiture ) annexed thereto ; only it sayes , they shall be forced and constrained to do it . This execution of the Levingstons is cast into the yeare 1447. ( after that Queen Marie , the Duke of Ghelders Daughter was married to the king ) at which time it is said , that Creighton was also forfeited , notwithstanding he had been Embassadour in procuring and making that marriage . The cause of his forfeiture is given out to be the keeping of the castle of Creighton when it was summoned and charged by an Herauld of armes , according to , & by vertue of the same act forsaid : But we have already spoken of that act , and we finde no mention of any Parliament that year . Neither from the year 1443. until the year 1449. wherein he should have been forfeited . And this we observe , that judgment may be adhibited in the reading of those , and such like things , however Creighton thus dashed , the Levingstons some executed , some imprisoned , forfeited , and condemned , there seemed to be some compensation of the murder of his Cosins , also their assister Bishop Kennedie received his part , so it is said that he had much ado to save himself , by leaving his goods a prey to them that pleased to take them . These things are imputed to the Earle Douglas as faults : why I cannot tell , unlesse we require of him that exact philosophicall disposition , to be free from all humour of revenging , which few have brought with them that have been conversant in the affaires of State , or common wealth . No not these who have been accounted as Philosophers , and that very precise ones , such were both the Catoes , whose common ordinary course was to be avenged of their enemies by publick accusations , and pursute of law : wherein if there be a fault , let there be no law , that permitts it , yea that allowes it , and exhorts unto it ; it is recorded of Cato called Censorius , that having met a young man in the street , who had accused his fathers enemie , and gotten him condemned , he cherished him and embraced him , saying , It was farre better so to celebrate the funerall of his father with the teares and condemnation of his adversaries , than to sacrifice with kids and Lambes . It is naturall to men to resent injuries , and as naturall to seek the repairing of them ; and he is excused who recompenses a wrong received ; and he is accounted also just who does it byorder and modestie , that hath patience to sute it , and abide the delayes of a Court-sute , it being a mean to purge blood out of the land . Neither does either Philosophie , or Religion forbid it but ; by the contrary , commands & allowes it . Only the caution is , that the minde of the pursuer be voide of malice , and his eye set upon justice : of which intention the searcher of hearts can only be the competent judge . If some Imperfections , and weaknesse of nature do mingle with the action ; we must not alwayes for that either utterly reject the action , or condemne the authour . But we must acknowledge that as right , which is right , and pardon the imperfection , which none wantes . We must not exclaime against it as if it were nothing but partialitie : Nor against the doer , as meerly vindictive , cheifely in a fact so very enormous , as the murthering of his Cosins was , wherefore if we shall without partialitie in our selves consider this whole pursuit , and give it the right name , we shall call it kindnesse to his kinsmen : equitie , justice , modestie , and patience , rather than wrong and malice : and praise him for his kindnesse , and faithfulnesse in friendship in revenging their quarrells , which hath been his very inclination , as will appeare hereafter yet not only this his just pursuite , but every thing that fell out in the countrie is laid upon him to brand him : as the slaughter of James Stuart by the Boydes , and the like : the taking of the castle of Hales by Patrick Dumbarre , which he is said to have taken , and killed the keeper thereof : because the Lord Hales had then received the Queen mother into the castle of Dumbarre : who had fled hither to eschew the troubles of the times . The Earle Douglas within a few dayes after got the castle of Hales againe , on condition to suffer the said Patrick Dumbar and his men to depart with their lives safe . Likewise he is said to have constrained Sir James Stuart ( the blacke knight of Lorne ) who had maried the Queen mother , to goe out of the countrie , upon some speeches uttered by the said Sir James against the ill government of the affairs of the kingdom : But neither is it set down what the words were , neither what sort of constraint was used towards him . This Sir James as he was sailing into France , his ship was taken by the Flemings , and he himself died soone after . The next year ( which was 1448 ) there fell out warre with England , and incursions made on both sides by the Borderers : where the Earle Douglas began again after so long an intermission ( to wit from the entrie of King James the first in the yeare 1423. the space of twenty five years ) to take upon him the managing of the warre , which his house had ever done , and he now also discharging with honour , and following the footsteps of his predecessours , for Dumfreis being burnt by the Earle of Shreusburie ( or Salisburie ) Dumbar spoiled by the Earle of Northumberland , James Douglas ( the Earles brother ) burnt Anwick in England , where having gotten great store of bootie , and many prisoners , as the others had done in Scotland , being almost equall , the & prisoners goods , & were changed by consent & agreement of the captains . But this was only a small assay before a greater matter , which followed this same year , as should seem , yet there was some cessation for a while , and truce taken for seven years . In which time the Earle who ( as we see ) was so zealous in prosecuting the revenge of the wrong done to his Cosins , showes another propertie no lesse commendable , which is to be as kind and forward to advance his friends as he had been to quell his enemies . For the same year James Dumbar ( Hollinshed calles him John ) Earle of Murray being dead , first he obtaines the foresaid Earles daughter ( who was Neece to King Robert the second by his daughter ) for his third Brother Archbald ; then the title of Earl of Murray from the King ; notwithstanding that she whom his brother had married was but the youngest sister , the elder being married before her fathers death unto James Creighton , of whom the house of Fenderet is descended ; how it came that he was preferred before Creighton , who married the elder sister ; whether because the titles of Earles do not go by succession unto the heirs of Line , but by the pleasure of the Prince , and that he had more court then Creighton , or whether there was some respect also had to the kinred , or what ever cause there were of it , it gave matter of speech to his enviers , and to our histories it hath furnished matter of Censure , as a wrong done to the elder sister , to whom they think it belonged : he obtained also his fourth brother Hugh to be made Earle of Ormond ; and his fifth brother John to be Lord of Balvenie , and Baron thereof , with many rich , and fruitfull lands . In which actions of his , when men can finde no ground of alledging that he did any wrong , they blame him as immoderate in augmenting too much the greatnesse of his house . Wherein I cannot but praise his kindnesse and carefulnesse , in preferring of his friends by all lawfull meanes , which is a dutie standeth with wisdom , and a right wisdom : neither was it ever , or can it be ever justly discommended , where there is no injurie committed . Whereas , not to do it ( if a man be able ) and not to seem to do so , proceeds either of carelesnes , or that which is worse , wickednesse , selfe love , and in some , envi and malignity , even to their owne friends . Which kind of doing , deserves no commendation , when it is but carelesnesse , farre lesse when it is done of malice : last of all , when men doe not onely not labour to advance their friends , but even endeavour to keep them under , by a point of wisedome which they thinke very deep , that they may remain servants to them ; fearing that if they come to any preferment , they would not be so ready to serve them , and might perhaps grow up above them . This humour , as it is malignant , and an ill disposition , so it is no great good wisedome , whatsoever subtilty it may seem to have in it●… for they advert not , that they hinder them , who would stand them in stead , and cut them short in power to be steadable to them , and so cut down the props of their owne standing , and such as would support them in their need & necessity . And while they feare that their friends out-strip them , they give place and matter to their enemies to overtop them both . Now the feare which they apprehend of their friends neglecting their duetie to them , is very farre off , and if ever it come to passe , it should not be envied , providing that kindnesse remain among them , though they should grow greater then they ; and howbeit they answered not our expectation in kindnesse ( except it were joyned with extremitie of wickednesse , and perhaps not then neither ) ought we to repent , or repine ? it being much more tolerable then to bee overmatched by an enemy , as it often falleth out , and can hardly choose but fall out , when a house standeth alone by it selfe , having no honest member thereof to underprop and uphold it . Besides , while men thus seeke to make their friends altogether servile to them , their friends perceiving it ( as it can hardly but bee perceived , what ever cunning bee used to cover it ) are the lother to serve ; as mens nature is , in whom love-service ( questionlesse ) is the best : yea , onely fruitfull service . And therefore they will either repine the more , or withdraw themselves altogether , if they bee of any spirit ; and if they bee not , their service is not worth having . So that men lose even their service ( which they so effect ) and sometimes turn it by unkindnesse , into unkindlinesse and enmitie , which hath ever been found by experience : neither did ever any house flourish so well , or any man in any house , as when they concurred with one minde to a mutuall helpe one of another : and none ever prospered so well as hee , who used and shewed his care ( not to keepe backe his friends , or to neglect them ) but to advance them , and take their businesse to heart as his owne . This is a true patterne of kindnesse , and no lesse of true wisedome , howsoever men may subtillize as they please , which is seriously , and sincerely followed by our Earle Douglas , and deserveth both commendation and imitation . Neither will it bee found that this is it which did him hurt , but ( questionlesse ) made him strong , and not easie to bee medled with , and so difficult that they could get no other mean to overthrow him , but that which they used , unto which they were forced , and of which , constraint is the onely excuse , as we shall see where hee is slain . Therefore , to say his greatnesse was the cause of his wrack , is more subtle , then solid ; even as it may be said ( in some sort ) that a mans riches are the cause of his throat being cut by robbers , and that a mans vertues and good qualities are oft times the cause of his overthrow , which should not ( for all that ) bee eschewed . But shall there then bee no moderation ! ( will some say ) and is it not fit , that Subjects should keepe themselves within some certain bounds , that are not envious , or suspect to Princes ? Moderation is good both in Prince and Subject , and it were to bee wished that all would moderate their greatnesse , at least their appetite and desire of greatnesse : or if not that , yet so that they would limit the meanes of attaining it , and the end for which they desire it ; and that they would have that wise conference of Cyneas with Pyrrh●…s before their eyes , that they might lesse affect it , or lesse erre in affecting of it : But where the end is good , and the mean right and lawfull , who craves further moderation , and limitation , whether in Princes , or Subjects , of their Empire ( as Augustus ) or of their greatnesse ( as this Earle here and many others ) whatsoever shew it carry , and however Histories speake thereof , ( besides their moderation that duety and religion requires ) in so farre as touches Policy , will be found but Sophistry , and no good Policy , when it is well examined . In all this therefore wee can acknowledge no fault ; but on the contrary , kindenesse , effectuall freindship , and a due and provident wisedome in strengthening himselfe against his enemies , and underpropping his house most wisely , and most circumspectly . Where is then his fault ? ye will say , and what was the cause of his ruine ? for we finde he did ruine in the end . Truely we must not account of all that have fallen , that they have faulted , that is a great errour in our judgements , and too common , that by finding faults in others , we may be thought the wisest : yet it is not hard to finde his fault if wee will beleeve his enemies speeches set downe by our Historians ; for though his friends feare nothing , and see nothing but his greatnesse ( which is but a vain feare ) his enemies see further ( as enemies are quicker sighted ) in faults , or would seeme to espy further : in their speech yee shall finde these grosse and lewd faults . 1. An unsatiable cupidity ( and then they explain in what ) in avarice : 2. Then an impotent Tyranny , two great faults ( Tyranny and Avarice ) sufficient to bring downe , and such as oft brought down Kings let be Subjects . And that we may not think that there was but an idle disposition in him , and but a naturall inclination , which he bridled , and suffered not to debord , they tell us the effects of them . Of his 1. avarice ( and that unjust , as all avarice is , if it bee properly avarice ) He seased on Noblemens Patrimontes , hee himselfe by law , and without law : 2. Of his tyranny and oppression , He gave the Patrimony of mean men as a prey to his dependers ; and yet further , Them that withstood his pleasure , hee harried or caused make them away by theeves and briggands : he advanced new men to the highest honours , placing them in the roomes of ancient Families . If any man spake a free word , tasting of liberty it cost him no lesse then his life : These faults indeed are great ones , if they were true , and such as merited that their end should have been as it was : These are indeed errours both in policie and humanitie , in private men or in Princes , in small or great , in what ever person ; and they were worthy to be detested , and abhominated by all men , if they were true , for our Authours say not that they were true . I say again , if they were true expressely ; for they doe but report them as the voyce of his enemies , who did exaggerate things as enviously as they could ( as that amongst other speeches of theirs ) doth witnesse , where they say , That all the riches of the Countrey were heaped upon one Family : that there were so many great Earles and Barons of them , that they had so much power and potencie , that the King reigned but by their license , and courtesie as it were . As for the Authours owne judgement hereof , ( besides what he said before , that they were amplyfied in the most odious manner ) hee subjoynes these , and such like speeches as those , Many of them were true many besides the truth , and augmented above it , to procure hatred unto them . So he leaves the judgement uncertain , and tells not what things were true , and what false and augmented , which we ought to discerne and separate ( if it be possible ) to make a right judgement : for this is indeed the craft of Calumny , to mingle truth with falsehood , that something being knowne to be true , the rest may passe for such also . But Prudencie will sift , and separate them , and winnow them in a right judgement , both that which is true , from that which is false , and in every point laid against him so much as it hath of truth , from that falsehood is mingled with it for Calumniators are excellent in their mixtures , and compositions of truth and falshood , so that there is great attentivenesse required to distinguish betwixt them , yet if we will attend to them , it may be they be discerned . Let us then consider the particulars , and what particulars we find in any of those to be true , let us acknowledge it ; what is not so , let us reject as false , and reckon amongst those that are but amplified , and augmented for envie : After which rule we shall finde in effect the last three to be those which are most true . 1. The riches : 2. The number : 3. The puissance of the house and name of Douglas . And yet not simple true as they set them downe , for they amplifie them also to stirre envie , unlesse we interpret it favourably : for not all the riches of the Countrey , nor all the honour was in their hands , though there were more in theirs , then in any others at that time : yet there hath been more ( both riches and honours ) in the hands of some other before ; for the Cummines are accounted to have been greater , and that their power was beyond the Kings power : it was false , their power being but a dependant , and subordinate , and could not be supposed to have been so great , so united ( though they were of one name ) as was seen afterward . And however we find it was thought so of before in the first Earles time , yet he never used it to the Kings prejudice after that he was informed of his right , which was now out of question : but these carry no fault in them . The rest which carry fault in them , the first two ( avarice and tyranny ) are to be tried by the effects : the third ( taking to himselfe the Noblemens Patrimony ) by law and besides law : what he did by law take from them , was not theirs ; what besides law we heare of no instance given : There is a fact may seem so in the Earledome of Murray , which he tooke not to himselfe , but to his brother . Neither was that the Patrimony , but the Title and Dignity , of which we have spoken already , and it was but a small peece of matter . The fourth and fifth ( his killing and robbing by theeves , and his dependers invading of other mens Patrimonies ) are of the same quality , for we heare of no instance bearing any wrong , Neither of the sixth , and seventh , advancing of new men wrongfully , or killing of men for free speeches . And truely raising of new men , and mean men was the thing that he and all his house did ever dislike very much , and was the ground of their discord , with the Levingstons and with Creighton . And I hope no man will call his brother a new man. So that to be short , when we have sifted them all , we see nothing but falsehood , and calumnies , and aggravations to move envie , which makes it no truth : for a truth augmented or diminished , is no longer truth , though otherwise it were true in substance . Wherefore leaving these speeches as the speeches of his enemies , that is to say , for Calumnies ( as they are called , and as they are indeed ) wee will come to that which is of greater weight , and followes in the Authours owne name , Animus per se insolens , hee was of an insolent minde of himselfe saith one , which being the judgement of one of the most learned and judicious Writers , I will not contest , but leave it in the middle , and soberly crave to have it weighed , that wee may see whether there bee any necessitie to make us thinke so or not , for it is Historicall onely , which I must thinke hee hath found in fact as he hath had leisure , and perused his Histories , of which we are scarce ; to wit , that he grew by successe to that impotency of commanding his affections , that he had his eares closed from the free admonitions of his friends . Nothing is more pernicious , nor is there a more certain prognostick of ruine to follow , then when men are so puft up with the opinion of their owne wisedome , that they disdain and contemne to heare , and to weigh the judgement of others . Yet this that followes is an extreame high degree of it , that men might not dissemble their minds in silence , to hold their peace at those things which they could not approve , was not sure nor safe for them , which ought to be safe for all men , to say nothing , and keep their minds to themselves and God ; which no other man , no not a mans selfe can command altogether . He is obedient that obeyes in the rest : The minde is his that made it , and can search it , over which no man should usurp . The cause of all this ill followes ; the aboundance of flatterers , and giving eare to them : a naturall , but a pestiferous fault , naturall to all great men , and small in their owne kinde : men are given to delight in what they beleeve , and to beleeve easily most good of themselves , whom they love most of any , and for aboundance of flatterers , who wants them ? Diogenes said he had his owne Parasites , the mouse was if men failed ! yea , men never fail , and perhaps failed not him ; hee whom all the world flattered . King Alexander , did he not flatter Diogenes ? what was his speech to him but a flattery both of himself and Diogenes ? or else anerrour concerning them both , when he said , If I were not Alexander , I would be Diogenes . So common is it , so naturall is it , but notwithstanding , it is hurtfull , and to be avoyded , and the more carefully to be taken heed of , the more common and the more naturall it is : he hath the fairest of the play , that is most wary of it , and accounts it his greatest perfection , to know his imperfection ; and he is most accomplished that best knowes his defects , and wishes for helps , and knowes he hath need of them . Out of doubt these were enough to bring down more then one Earle of Douglas ; as for that which is further said of him . His old enemies were drawne to law to plead their cause before the same man , both judge and party , of whom many were spoyled of their goods , some of their lives ; some to eschew the in just judgement , tooke voluntary exile unto them ; and that which is said of their dependers , they overshot themselves , carelesse of all judgements ( because none could contend with them in judgement ) To all sort of licentiousnesse , robbing , and stealing holy things , profane things , and slaying them they could get their hands over : neither keeped they any bridle ( or measure ) in their wickednesse . Of all this concerning his dependers , being so generally and almost hyperbolically conceived : I could wish among so many , that there had been some instance set downe , that we might the better have knowne it , and discerned it . This ( I am sure ) cannot be without hyperbole : that they did commit some gratuit wickednesse ( that is , such as was for no good to them nor profit ) and without gain , pleasure or profit , having no cause in the world for them , but onely to keep their hands in ure of wickednesse , lest being disaccustomed from ill , some honest thought might come into their minde , that might tame them from their wickednesse and vilenesse . So strange a conclusion would have had cleare and plaine antecedents , and not a few of those . It is hard to beleeve this upon any mans word , chiefly such a one as lived not in those times , nor was an eyewitnesse ( as we say ) of things , who by such speeches would have us to conceive more then he could , or by any could be expressed in words . But what one man could only gather out of Histories , we might also have gathered by the same Historie , if he had named his Authors , or showne the way of his collecting of it from thence . But there being no footsteps of such enormities in the Histories which we have , that can lead us to this , I know not if we be bound so to reverence any mans person , as to receive it absolutely . That which followes , is of the same kinde , wherein the evils of those times are amplified , That it fell out well for Scotland that England had their owne civill warres in those dayes , otherwise Scotland had sunke under the burden . For first their civill warres from this time ( which was from 1444. untill 1448. ) were not great , and but secret grudgings onely . The commotion of Blue-beard was not untill 1449. and in Kent by John Cade in 1450. Then the forraine warres with England might have moved the discord at home , as they have done often , and men fit for warlike employment , and given to arms , should have had matter to exercise themselvs upon the common enemie , who in time of peace , for want of such employment as they are inclined to , are the cause of much evill at home . Last of all , we finde the contrarie by experience : for notwithstanding of these dissentions and disorders , yet they obtained a notable victorie of the English by the same Douglasses who are accounted so disorderly in time of peace , but have ever proved in the eyes of all men honourable , and dutifull in warre , their enemies not being able to detract from their manifest and evident worth . The occasion of this victorie fell out thus . Wee heard how after the burning of Anwicke by James Douglas , younger brother to the Earle , a Truce was taken for seven yeares : notwithstanding of which , in this yeare ( as would seeme ) or in the next at farthest , the English ( without any regard of the Truce ) made inroades upon Scotland , spoyled , forrowed , and burnt the Villages farre and wide where they went , which the Scots would not suffer to passe unrevenged . Wherefore to cry quit with them , they entred England , and returned unto them as much hurt as they had received ; and the storme fell chiefly upon Cumberland , from whence the beginning of the troubles had arisen , which was by this incursion almost redacted to a wildernesse . When newes hereof were brought to London , they gave order for levying of an Army of 40000. men ( as some write ) intending to bring Scotland under their subjection , which they thought would not be hard to doe , in respect the Countrey had beene so lately wasted and impoverished , as also for that they knew their divisions at home . Therefore having made a levie of the best and choice souldiers , the Earle of Northumberland is made Generall , and there was joyned with him a certaine man called Magnus ( onely a Gentleman borne ) who had given good proofe of his valour many times in France , where he had beene brought up , and trained in the warres from his youth . This man bearing great hatred to the Scots , and being too confident of his owne sufficiency , is said to have obtained of the King of England , for the reward of his service , whatever lands he could winne from them , for himselfe and his heires in perpetuall inheritance . He was remarkable by his long and red Beard , and was therefore called by the English Magnus Red-beard , and by the Scots , in derision , Magnus with the red Maine , as though his beard had beene an horse Maine , because of the length and thicknesse thereof . The Manuscript calleth him Magnus with the red hand , taking the word ( Maine ) for the French word , which signifieth an hand : but the attentive Reader may perceive the errour , and how it was a word meerely Scottish , and used by the Scots in derision . The King of Scots hearing of this preparation in England , caused also levie an Army , wherein he made the Earle of Ormond ( George , or rather Hugh Douglas ) Generall , who immediately went into Annandale , through which the English Army was to come . Both sides being thus prepared , the English having passed the Rivers of Solway and Annand , pitch their Camp upon the brinke of the water of Sarke . The Scots marched towards them , and they hearing of their approach , made themselves ready , so that being come within sight one of another , they ranged their men in order of battell . In the right wing of the English Army was this Magnus with the red Maine . ) In the left Sir John Pennington with the Welsh men . The middle battle was led by the Earle of Northumberland himselfe . On the Scots side was the Earle of Ormond in the middle battell over against Northumberland , and William Wallace of Craiggie opposed Magnus , and against Sir John Pennington was placed the Knight of Carlaverocke , called Maxwell , and Johnston of Johnston , with many inland Gentlemen , ( saith the Manuscript ) because they had no great confidence in their owne Annandale men , who were more set upon spoile then victorie . Ormond exhorted the Armie in few words , telling them , That they had great reason to hope for the victorie , because they had taken armes , being provoked thereto , and that it could not be , but that so just a cause should have a happy event . Onely behave your selves valiantly , abate the pride of the enemy with a notable defeat , and so you shall reape a long lasting fruit of a short travell . When the English Archers did annoy the Scots with their arrowes from afarre , William Wallace cried out with a loud voice , so as he was heard by his followers , Why should we stand still thus to be wounded afarre off ? Follow me ( sayes he ) and let us joyne in hand stroakes , where true valour is to be seene : and so marching forward , and the rest following his example , they made so fierce an onset , that they quite overthrew the right wing thereof . Magnus perceiving that , being more mindfull of his honour acquired in time past , then of the present danger , resolved either to restore the battell , or lose his life with credit , pressed forward against Craiggie Wallace to have encountred him , and ere he could come at him , he was encompassed about by the Scottishmen , and slaine : his death put the English in such a feare ( for they had great confidence in his valour and conduct ) that they without any further resistance turned their backs , and sled in great disorder . The Scots pursued so fiercely and eagerly , that there was more of the enemies slaine in the chase , than in the battell , chiefly upon the brinke of the River of Solway , where the tide being come in , the river was not passable , and such as adventured to take it were drowned . There were slaine in this battell 3000. English , and amongst those their great Magnus , and the Scots deadly enemie , who had presumed so of victory . A notable example to teach men not to be over confident in things of such uncertaine event , as are the warres ; and ( as our proverb is ) Not to sell the beares skin before he be slaine . There were slaine besides him eleven Knights of good account and note . Of the Scots were lost but 600. There were taken prisoners a great number , amongst whom were Sir John Pennington , and Sir Robert Harington , Knights , and the Lord Percie sonne to the Earle of Northumberland , whilest he helped his father to his horse , who thereby escaped taking . There was also so great store of spoile gotten , as no man remembred so much to have beene gotten at any battell before . For the English trusting to their number , and the strength of their Armie , together with the opinion of their enemies weaknesse , through dissention and variance ( as they supposed ) had brought with them their best furniture , and richest stuffe , in full assurance of victorie , Wallace of Craiggie being sore wounded in the fight , was carried home , and died within three moneths after . The Earle of Ormond having gotten this honourable victorie , conveyed the chiefest of the prisoners to Lochmabane , and then repaired to Court , where he was joyfully met , and received of all , with all sort of honour that could be , envie it selfe not daring to open her mouth against him . The King did highly commend him for this exploit , and exhorted him and the Earle Douglas his brother , That as their foregoers had often , as they also had done , defended the Estate of Scotland with their labours , and vertue , in most perillous times , and had given large proofe of their valour and courage : That so they would at home accustome themselves to modestie : That they themselves would abstain , and that they would containe their friends from injuries toward the weaker sort : Their power and puissance , which they had acquired by so many their great deserts , towards their Kings , his Predecessours , and the Countrey , that they would employ it rather in suppressing of robbers and disorderly men , then to make new of giving way to it by connivence . That this only was lacking to their full praise , which if they would adde , they should finde by experience there was nothing more deare unto him then the advancement of the House and Name of Douglas . To this the Earle Douglas replied ( he being the elder brother , and finding that this speech was chiefly directed to him ) with great submission , and promised to doe as his Majestie had exhorted them : and so they were dismissed , and returned home to their owne houses with great honour and applause both of Prince and people , to whom they had by this victorie purchased great quietnesse . For neither were the English Borderers able to invade them any more , nor the King of England to send downe a new Army ( which faine he would have done ) by reason of the civill warre which ensued shortly after at home . So that he chose rather to have peace with Scotland , in regard of the case he was then in , then warre . Wherefore he sent Ambassadours , and obtained a Truce for three yeares , the Scots thinking it no lesse expedient for them in a case not unlike to his , through intestine dissention , though not open insurrection against the King. For notwithstanding all this service done to the King and Countrey , the malice of such as were the enemies of the Douglasses was no whit abated , nay , their worth the more it was showne , and the more brightly that it did shine , it did so much the more stirre envie in their ill-willers , whose secret practises still continued , and whose credit in Court seemed still to increase against them . Creighton , who before had beene sent Ambassadour to Charles the seventh of France , for procuring a wife to the King , had concluded a match for him with Mary daughter to Arnold Duke of Gelders , who by her mother ( the Duke of Burgundies sister ) was come of the Bloud Royall of France , was now returned into Scotland with her in this yeare 1448. This service and her favour increased his credit greatly with the King ; which the Earle Douglas perceiving , was nothing pleased with it , but being discontented , obtaining leave of the King , he withdrew himselfe from Court , seeing his errour of having beene contented that Creighton should be imployed in that honourable message , thinking himselfe well rid of him by this his absence ; which practice of Court succeedeth sometimes happily ( as it did against the Boyds in King James the thirds time , in the very like case ) yet it did not so now , but turned to the greater advantage and advancement of his enemie . Creighton was well contented with his retiring , esteeming it his gaine to be so rid of him from the Kings eare and presence . Whilest they concorded thus in their discord , both willing one thing in so contrary mindes ( to wit , the Earle Douglas absence ) there fell out an accident that occasioned his longer absence , not from the Court onely , but out of the Countrey also . Richard Colville of Ochiltree was an enemy and bare deadly feud to John Auchenlech of Auchenlech , a friend and depender of the Earle Douglas ; whom the Earle having sent for to come to him to Douglas Castle for such businesse as he had to do with him , the said Richard having notice of the said Auchenlechs journey , notwithstanding he knew he went toward the Earle , whether stirred up by the Earles enemies at Court , so to put an affront upon him , or leaning to their credit for impunitie , or out of impatience , or presumption , or contempt of the Earle in respect of his withdrawing from Court , not regarding him , or fearing his displeasure or anger , he lay in wait for him by the way , and set upon him with a number of armed men , where , after some small conflict , Auchinlech was slaine , and divers of his friends and servants with him . The Earle Douglas having notice hereof , the fact touching him so neerely in the person of his friend and follower , in his service , comming toward him , and sent for by him , he was so incensed therewith , that whether distrusting the ordinary course of justice ( as wherein he might be eluded by his enemies then guiders of Court ) or impatient of delay , or not accounting it so honourable for him , nor so awefull in example to others , concluding immediately to revenge it , and vowing solemnly he should be avenged before he either eat or dranke , he tooke horse immediately , and with the readiest of his friends rode to the Castle of Ochiltree , forced it , and slew the said Richard Colvill , and all the males within the Castle that were come to the age of men . This opened the mouths of men diversly , according to their diverse humours , some condemning his cruelty , some commending his courage , some saying that he had gone too farre , and done too much ; others that he could doe no lesse , that he had just cause , and that he had been ill used , his friend slain , his honour interessed , that such kinde of justice best became him ; his enemies at Court tooke hold of it , aggravating it to the King , an insolent fact against law and custome , and however Colvill had deserved it ( which they could not deny ) yet it was a perillous example , prejudiciall to all order , and to the King , to whom the punishing of such things belonged ; So that the King became highly offended therewith . Hereupon the Earle Douglas , partly to give place to his Princes anger , partly upon some remorse ( as all bloud hath ever some touch and sting of Conscience with it : ) the next yeare beeing the yeare of Jubilee , hee purchased a license from the King to goe to Rome , pretending he would doe pennance for the said slaughter , ( but as his enemies did interpret it ) to shew his greatnesse to forraigne Princes and Nations . Before hee tooke his journey , having a care of his house , and being out of hope to have children of his owne ( as having been seaven or eight yeare married without children ) he procured his second brother James to be received by the King , and confirmed in the Earledome after himselfe . There went with him in company a great number of Noblemen and Gentlemen , such as the Lord Hamiltoun , Gray , Salton , Seaton , Oliphant and Forbesse ; also Calder , Urwhart , Cambell , Fraiser , Lawders of Crumartie , Philorth and Basse , Knights , with many other Gentlemen of great account . Hee ( went first to Flanders , and from thence by land to Paris , where he was honourably received by the King of France , whom some call Lewis the eleaventh , but it must needs be Charles the seaventh , who lived till the yeare 1460. some tenne yeares after this Jubilee , which behoved to bee in the yeare 1450. The remembrance of the good service done by his Uncle at Bauge , and his Grandfather at divers times , and at last , for spending his life for him at Vernoile , was not yet worne out of Charles his memory , in regard whereof , and for the place he carried , and the publick League between the Countreyes , he omitted no kind of honour undone to him that was fit for his qualitie and ranke : from thence he tooke his journey towards Rome , which was filled with the expectation of his coming . He had taken from Paris with him his youngest brother George , a young man who was there at Schooles , and of whom there was great expectation ; but he died by the way , to his great griefe , he is said by the manuscript , to have been nominated Bishop of Dunkell , and that he was to be inaugurated at Rome ; Buchannan also saith it , perhaps following the manuscript : but they both forget that his eldest brother Henry is said by the same manuscript , in the life of their father , to have beene Bishop of Dunkell : and this George died before he was fifteene yeares of age . I take it also to be an oversight in this same Buchannan , that hee saith that this George was destinated to be Earle by the Kings permission , after his brother , who had no children . For it is against reason that hee being youngest of many brethren ( worthy men ) should have been preferred before them , while he was but yet a childe at school . While the Earle was thus in his pilgrimage , his enemies slept not at home , but taking the opportunitie of his absence , did both blame him at the Kings hand by all invention they could devise , and stirred up such of the common people as had received any wrong of any man , to complaine to the King , alledging they had received it by the Earle Douglas friends or servants , and by such wayes moved the King to cause seeke Siminton , then Bailiffe to the Earle in Douglas dale , and to cite and summon him to answer to such crimes as were laid to the Earles charge , for the actions ( perhaps ) of his dependers and clients , or ( at least ) for such things as his Lord had neither commanded , neither ( happely ) heard of . Siminton looking for no equitie at their hands , who moved such a citation , choosed not to come into judgement , suffering things to passe rather for non-compeirance , than to compeire , not knowing the state of things , nor how to answer , having neither knowledge of them by himselfe , nor direction , nor information from his Lord. Upon this occasion his enemies laid hold , interpreted this his non-compeirance in the most odious sort , and called it contumacie , and what grievous name they could devise . So they moved the King to send his servants and apprehend him , and would gladly have proceeded with all extremity against him , exclaiming against his presumptuous contempt of the King , and telling the King , that his royall authoritie was become a mockerie , and despised by every base fellow : That by his lenitie he did but foster the malapertnesse of the wicked sort : That by impunitie new doores were opened to new misdoers : with such other speeches , in the most vehement maner they could , to have dipped the King in bloud , and cut off all hope ( as farre as in them lay ) of reconcilement betwixt them . But he , not being so farre alienated as yet from Douglas , howbeit the complaints of so many had stirred up some dislike , and taken impression in his minde , was not moved with their speeches in that high nature , but persisted in his opinion to recompence the Complainers in their losses of goods by goods , but not to meddle with any mans bloud : wherefore he caused Siminton to be set at libertie , and commanded him onely to satisfie the Complainers . But hee who could neither answer without information , nor satisfie without direction , humbly besought his Majestie , that since he had not information , and could not answer , being but a servant , and unacquainted with businesse ; seeing also he was not Collector of his masters rents , but onely commander of his servants , it would please him to delay the matter till his Lord returned , ( whom he expected within few moneths ) who ( he doubted not ) both could and would answer to whatsoever complaint , and satisfie sufficiently at his Princes pleasure whatsoever dammage he should have beene found to doe to any man. This seemed most reasonable , that the Earle himselfe should be heard first , and not condemned unheard , and in his absence ; and there could bee no great prejudice in a short delay . Wherefore the King condescended to it , and yet not withstanding being importuned by the multitude of new complaints , he sent William Sinclair Earle of Orkney ( a near Cousin to the Earle Douglas ) being Chancellor for the time , to intromet with his goods and rents in Galloway and Douglas , to satisfie Complainers therewith : but it was to no purpose , for hee was eluded , and almost mocked by the tenants . He alledged , and reported to the King , that was done by the instigation of the Earle of Ormond , that he was so frustrate ; for the Earle Douglas had committed to him the mannaging of his estate in his absence , and he greatly disdained that Orkney , being so neare of bloud and alliance to them , should have undertaken that charge . The King irritated herewith , as a contempt of his authoritie , caused Heraulds to be directed ( or Pursevants ) to summon all of the name of Douglas , and their favourers , to compeire upon a certaine day , and the Earle himselfe within threescore dayes ; which being expired , and none compeiring , they were denounced Rebels . Then the King himselfe went with an Army into Galloway , where at his first entrie , having forced their Captaines to retire to their strengths , a small number of his hoast , whilest they followed the Rebels uncircumspectly through strait places , were beaten backe upon the King , not without some disgrace . The king moved with great indignation hereat , went and assaulted their chiefe fortes : And first he tooke the Castle of Lochmabane without great trouble or travell ; thereafter with great toile and wearying of his men , the Castle of Douglas , which he razed to the ground . He commanded the Farmers , Tenants , and Labourers of the ground , to pay their Meales to his Collectours , untill such time as the complainers were satisfied with their Lords goods . These things being reported ( thus as they were done ) to the Earle Douglas while hee was yet at Rome , moved him greatly , and greatly astonished them that were in his company ; so that many withdrew themselves , fearing what it might turne to ; and he , with the few that remained with him , made what haste they could homeward . As hee came through England , hee was honourably entertained by the King and Queene there : but when hee approached neere to the borbers of Scotland , hee stayed a little time , and sent his brother James before to trie the Kings minde toward him ; which when hee found to be placable , hee returned home , was kindely received , and lovingly admonished to put away from him disorderly persons , especially the men of Annandale , who had in his absence committed many outrages and cruelties . This when hee had faithfully promised to performe , hee was not onely received into his former place of favour , but was made also Lieutenant Generall of the whole Kingdome of Scotland . And this was the bitter fruit of his perillous Pilgrimage , that hereby hee loosed the reines to his enemies , and gave them power so farre to prevaile , as to embarke the King in open quarrell against him , even to the casting downe of his Houses , and intrometting with his Revenues . This notwithstanding was either his wisedome , or the account and respect of his place and person , that the King , who had done him such harme and disgrace , could bee contented so to forget it , receiving him so farre into favour , and advancing him , whatever blame or imputation may bee laid upon him for his journey , which was so rashly taken on , and which had so dangerous a sequell ; yet this retreate from that storme cannot but bee commended , and his dexteritie ( whatever it were ) acknowledged to have beene great , which guided him through such billowes and surges to so peaceable a Port and Haven . And it were to be wished that Writers had set downe by what means this was brought to passe , for the more perfect understanding of the History ; but we must beare with this amongst many more defects that are to be found in them . Now what ever wisedome ( though undescribed in the particular ) may appeare to bee in this ; as much unadvisednesse is evident in that which hee did immediately after , in his journey to England . For without acquainting the King , hee went to the Court of England , and had privie conference with that King and Queene , hee pretended that it was for restitution of some goods taken out of Scotland , and not restored by the Wardens of England : but this cause , the lighter it was , the greater suspition did it move in his owne King , who could not thinke it probable , that hee being of that place , of that courage , of that nature , would upon such an occasion onely , take such a journey : The true cause is thought to be , that he went to treat of certaine conditions for his assistance to be given to the King of England against his Nobilitie , with whom he was then in hard termes , the warres of the house of Yorke beginning to spring up , which increased afterward so mightily , and prevailed , to the ejecting him out of the Kingdome . This the Queene of England either foreseeing , or fearing some other such like enterprise against her husband had dealt with the Earle Douglas when he came home through England from Rome the yeare before , to strengthen them by his help , and appointed him to return for performance , and perfecting of all conditions of agreement . But we finde no effect of this agreement and conditions , whether because that conspiracie of the Duke of York was not yet come to maturitie , and so Douglas was not employed , being prevented by death ( which fell out shortly after this ) or because they were not fully agreed , is uncertaine . Neither is it specified what the conditions were : onely it is conjectured , that they were the same , or such like , as the same King ( Henry the sixth ) granted afterward to the Earle of Angus in the time of King James the third , which if they were , they were no wayes prejudiciall to the King of Scotland ( as shall appeare there ) yet being done without his knowledge , it gave occasion either to the naturall jealousie of Princes to think hardly of it , by his owne meere motion , or to his enemies , so to construct it to the King , and stirre him up by their speeches to that suspicion which he enclined to . Of both which he ought to have beene warie , and not to have given such ground to the one , or to the other , by such a journey undertaken without the Kings allowance . Whether at his returne he acquainted the King with what had past betwixt him and the Kings of England , it is not certaine , and our Writers seeme to say the contrary , yet in that hee brought letters from the Queene of England to the Queene of Scotland , and shee thereupon interceded for him , it is not improbable that he hath acquainted her ( and so the King also ) with the truth of the whole businesse : which whether the King did not beleeve , or if his jealousie remained not the lesse , and that hee was not willing there should bee such an accession and increase of the Earles greatnesse , who ( he thought ) was greater already then was safe for a King ; hee pardoned him the fault at the intercession of the Queene and some Nobles , but he tooke from him the Office of Lieutenant , and all other publicke charge , that so he might be made unusefull and unsteadable to the King of England , or at least not so able to aid him , and so he might be frustrate of the conditions so liberally promised unto him from thence . Hee restored also his old enemie Creighton to the Office of Chancellour , and the Earle of Orkney was made Lieutenant . Thus not onely disappointed of his hopes , but disgraced at his Princes hands , both by being himselfe depressed , and his enemies advanced , he was incensed against all the Courtiers , taking all to proceed from their instigation . But more especially his anger was bent against Creighton , both as the ancient enemie of his House , and also as the chief Authour of all this present dis-favour by his surmisings , transported herewith , hee gave way to his passion to carry him to a course somewhat more then civill , which untill that time hee had tempered , retaining it with the bridle of equitie , and himselfe within the compasse of the lawes . Now whether altogether , and onely for these causes foresaid , or if irritated by a new occasion of malicious speeches uttered by Creighton ( That the Kingdome of Scotland would never be at rest so long as the house of Douglas was on foot : That in the ruine thereof stood the good of the Realme , and peace of all Estates : That it was necessary a man of so turbulent a nature , so puissant and powerfull by his Kindred and Alliance , whom no benefits could appease , nor honours satiate , should bee cut off , and the publicke peace established by his death , ) or if Creighton contrived this speech to make Douglas the more odious , and his owne quarrell seeme the juster against him ( for both are written ) so it is , that the Earle caused certaine of his friends and servants lie in wait for him as hee was riding from Edinburgh toward Creighton : but he escaped , being acquainted with the plot ( as some write ) well accompanied , and excellently well mounted , but not without being wounded himselfe , and having slaine some of his adversaries in his escape . Others , attribute his escaping not to any foresight or fore-knowledge , but sayeth that hee was assailed in the night at unawares , and being astonished at the first , yet afterward recollecting himselfe ( for he was a man of good courage ) hee slew the formost he met with , and having received some wounds , brake through them , and saved himselfe in Creighton Castle , where he remained not long ; but his wounds being scarce well cured , he conveened his friends , and coming on the sudden to Edinburgh , had almost surprised the Earle Douglas , who was there in quiet manner , and looked for no such thing , but he getting advertisement hereof , did advertise the King that he could no longer endure Creightons hidden malice and practises against his life , and estate , and his now open attempts also : wherefore hee desired to bee excused , th●…t hee could no more repair to Court , so long as Creighton was there , and so retired himselfe to his house to remain as a male-content for a season . In the meane time finding his enemies thus to increase in credit at Court , and with their credit ( as commonly it cometh to passe ) in number and power , hee , to strengthen himselfe also on the other side against them , entered into a new confederacy with the Earles of Crawford , and Rosse , men of greatest puissance and force next the Douglasses , that were in Scotland in their times ; or rather he renewed the old friendship that had been betwixt them . For their houses were in old time in great friendship with the houses of Douglas ( as hath beene shewed ) and the house of Crawford was particularly obliged unto them by divers good Offices , from the dayes of Robert the second : and in this same mans time had been helped against the Ogelbees at Arbroth : as his father also had at the Earle Douglas desire spoyled the Bishop of Saint Andrewes ( Kennedies ) lands : And besides , this Beatrix Douglas ( the Earle Douglas Lady ) was daughter to one of the Earles of Crawford , and could not but bee of kinne to this Earle . The summe of their band was , That they should every one assist and defend another , together with their friends and dependers , against all men : That they should have the same friends , and the same enemies , with reservation alwayes , and exception of their duety to their Prince . But whether this band was made of new ( as some write ) or if it were of old continued from hand to hand , and then renewed as though it were intended in speciall against Creighton and his partakers , and due exception of the King expressely contained in it , is uncertain : however , they so possessed the King , that hee interpreted all as done against himselfe . And therefore matters being come to publick Hostilitie betwixt Douglas and Creighton , and the Countrey divided into factions , when the Earle of Crawford and Rosse had sent to Creighton , and given up all friendship with him as an enemy to their dearest friend , by vertue of the foresaid League ; hee acquainted the King therewith , and with all vehemencie exaggerated the League , as a conspiracy against him and his royall Authority , and that it was very dangerous for him when such great houses , and powerfull men had combined together . The King apprehending it to bee so , having once settled that opinion in his minde , did upon that ground build all his interpretations of the Earle Douglas actions , and framed his owne actions accordingly against him ; Neither was Douglas so fortunate , or circumspect , as to avoid the occasions of fostering that opinion in the King : but ( as commonly happeneth ) when ruine is to come on men , all things worke that way , so fared it with him in two facts . The first was on the person of the Lord Harris , who was too hardly used of him , as appeares : The other on the Tutor of Bombee , more justly ; yet so , that his carriage in it seemed to confirme that which his enemies alledge against him , that he exercised his authority , and used his priviledges more absolutely then the King had reason to be contented with . The occasion of the first , and the forme thereof was , Sir William Harris of Terreglis having been the Earle Douglas ancient dependar , had now in this frowne of Court , and diversity of factions ( whether to please the Court , and because he accounted it jus●…lest to follow it , or because indeed he misliked things done by the borderers who followed Douglas ) withdrawn himselfe from his dependance ; and if he sided not openly with the other party ( which hee could nor durst hardly doe , lying so neare to Douglas ) yet did hee not follow him as hee was wont , and so either by a reall enmitie in private , or a kinde of neutrality in publick , had procured the like behaviour of the Earle to him , to behave himselfe as neutrall in his affaires : and as hee had abstracted his dependance and attendance from him , so the other abstracted his Protection from him . This when the Annandians perceived , they ( ready upon all such occasions ) made a rode , and furrowed his lands : hereof when he complained to the Earle , and had received answer according to the foresaid coldnes betwixt them , he would needs attempt some redresse by his own power ; and hereupon assembling a number of his friends , he rode into Annandale to have rendered them the like , and either to recover his owne , or repaire his losses out of their goods . But he was overthrowne by them , and taken prisoner , and so brought to the Earle Douglas , hee esteeming him as his owne servant , and taken within his bounds where his jurisdiction ( by regallity or otherwayes ) was extended , put him to assise . They of the Jury found him guilty , being taken after hee had seized the goods , ( with red hand as they term it ) and so being convict of theft , he was condemned , executed , and hanged as a thiefe , and that notwithstanding the Kings earnest request for his life by letter . A pitifull matter , and greatly to be lamented ! and though he had some colour of justice , yet it tasted not so much of justice as of malice ; no not of indifferency ( which would be injustice , having eye to the due circumstances ) so much as of partiality , joyned with contempt of the King , and his equall request ; and so it was constructed , and gave more just occasions to his enemies surmising , and the increasing of the Kings indignation , which by yeelding , and remitting a little of his priviledges , and showing respect to the Kings entreaty , he might have mitigated in some measure ; and that without any danger he could have incurred by the said Lord Harries enmitie ( although he should have been his enemy , and perhaps he might have regained him to his friendship by remitting the offence . ) The other fact which ensued upon this , not so unjust , but made as odious ( as carrying the odiousnesse of the other with it ) was , Macklalane Tutor of Bombee , the chiefe of that name , and one of the principall houses in Galloway , falling at odds with a servant of the Earle Douglas had slain him , and was ( therefore with his brother who was partaker of the slaughter ) apprehended and put in prison in the Trevie , a strong house belonging to the Earle . His friends made means to the Courtiers , and by them to the King ; informing him that Douglas carried a spleene against the man , more for being a friend , a favourer and follower of the best side ( so they called their owne ; then for killing of the man : wherefore they besought him that he would not suffer a Gentleman of his rank , who was also a good man otherwise ( however that had fallen out in his hands ) to bee drawne ( not to judgement , but ) to certain and destinate death , before one , who was both judge and party . By this and such like information ( whereby the eares of Princes are deceived , while men go about to withdraw their friends from due punishment ) they perswade the King to send for Bombee , and take the triall and judgement of him in his own hands , desiring the Earle Douglas , that if he had any thing against him , he should come and pursue him before the King. Amongst the furtherers of this sute Patrick Gray of Fowls ( uncle to the Tutor ) was chiefe : he was directed with the Commission , as one that both would be earnest therein , being so neare to the party , and would also bee respected , being some way in kinne to the Earle ; Douglas having notice of his Commission , and perceiving thereby they meant no other thing , but to defraud him of justice for killing of his servant ( which he thought he could not suffer with his honour ) that he might doe what hee had determined the more calmely , and with the lesse offence ( as hee thought ) he courteously received the said Patrick Gray , and intertained him with diverse purposes , and caused the Tutor in the meane time to be tried by an Assise , and being condemned , to bee quickly conveyed a mile from thence to a place called Carling-work , and there executed . Afterward when Patrick Gray ( ignorant of what was done ) had delivered his Commission from the King ; he answered , he was sory he was come too late , and then told him what was done , and desired him to excuse him to the King. When he heard that , and saw himselfe so deluded , he presently ( in a great chafe and rage ) renounced all kindred and friendship , and whatsoever band besides might seeme to tie him to the Earle ; vowing that from that time forth he should be his deadly enemy in all sort , and by all means he could , which the other little regarding , dismissed him : But however he little regarded it , the French Proverb proveth true , and is worthy to be regarded of all men , That there is no little enemy : for he had the power to be his death afterward with his owne hands , and plotted it by his Counsell , or set it forward , being plotted and devised by others : for being come to the King , and relating the issue and effect of his message , all was by him and the other Courtiers of the faction aggravated in the most haynous sort : That the Kings commandments were contemned , eluded and mocked : That it was likely that the Earle Douglas was King : That doubtlesse he aimed to be so , yea , hee behaved himselfe already as such : That that was the meaning of his private conference with the King of England , on that ground he gave licence to slay so many honest men , to spoil and robbe : That innocency now was contemned for brutishnesse , faithfulnesse to the King punished for unfaithfulnesse ; That by the Kings indulgencie the common enemy was become insolent : That it became him once to take upon him his place as King , and do things by authority , and by his power , that then it would appeare who were friends , who were foes . These , and such as these , were the speeches of the Courtiers and interpretations of his actions : such as it pleased them to make , following their humour of faction or judgement . But they neither considered the equitie that was done in punishing bloud by bloud , nor the authority by which it was done , for hee had authority and sufficient jurisdiction of old granted to him , and given by former Kings to his Predecessours and their Heires for his service . Neither did they observe what order and formality hee kept in his proceedings , nor his honour interested in the revenging his servants death : Neither what scorne to him it was on the other part , if he had sent the party : having thereby his priviledges , infringed , his servant slain , and no satisfaction for it , but to bee eluded by a Commission , purchased by his enemies , justice defrauded , and the guiltie pulled out of his hands : and by their credit with the King , procuring him to hinder justice , who should have beene the furtherer of it , onely upon their particular private motion , and by their factions , inclining of his Majesty that way . Upon these considerations , what had beene more extraordinarily done , would have beene excused by the same men , in another then Douglas . Now in him ( though done orderly ) it is thus traduced , aggravated , exaggerated , amplified , and named contempt of the King , and affecting the Crowne . Such is the misery , when Princes are moved by parties , to command or request things that are unjust , there being perill and inconvenients , either in obeying or refusing their requests , receiving hurt and prejudice in their rights , scorne of their adverse party , or denying to offend whom they would fain serve : and happy is that man that can steere aright betwixt these rocks ! Happy hee who falleth into the hands of such a Prince , as measureth and moderateth his commands according to equitie ; or if they bee inique , when it falleth out so ( for what Prince may not fall into such weaknesse ) who tempereth his passion , and moderateth his minde , in the just refusall thereof , taking it in good part , and accounteth not his authority contemned , when an unjust command is refused by his Subjects . Whether it were on the displeasure of this fact , or jealousie conceived of this and other actions of the Douglasses , it is hard to discerne : but so it was , that his enemies making use for their owne ends of the Kings credulous suspition , prevailed so farre , that they perswaded the King to resolve to make him away ( and seeing it could not bee done by open force ) in any sort it could bee done ; whereof when they had advised of all the meanes they could , this they found to bee the most expedient way , that hee should bee sent for to Court , by faire promises , and being come , the King should enter into termes of quarrelling : And thereupon they that were appointed for the purpose , should dispatch him . So they caused a certain Courtier of their faction , but such an one as was free from all suspition of bearing enmity to the Earle , to addresse himselfe to a Gentleman , who was Douglasses friend , and to shew him how Creighton was retired to his owne house , and that in his absence it were fit the Earle should take that good occasion , to come and see the King , with whom hee might bee assured to finde favour , if hee would crave it humbly : and this hee told as a great secret , not to bee revealed , but to his Lord , and dealt earnestly with him to follow this advice . The Gentleman beleeving , went and dealt very earnestly with his Lord , but hee suspecting Creightons craft , and having the murther of his Cousins before his eyes , flatly refused to goe thither , where he had so many enemies , so potent and of so great credit , and some of which ( had not long agoe ) lien in wait for his life , unlesse hee saw assurance of his life and liberty . Hereupon he was directly sent for to come to Court , with promise of all freedome , and with assurance under the broad Seal : and to remove all feare & doubt that he could conceive , the Noblemen that were present at Court were moved to send a warrant to him , subscribed with all their hands , and sealed with all their seals , with the greatest oathes and protestations interposed therein that could be ; and not onely so , but every man wrote his owne particular letter apart , assuring him of the Kings good will ; and further promising him , that if it should so fall out , that the King would be so disposed as to breake his faith and promise , and to interprise any thing against his person , life , lands or liberty , they should send him home safe neverthelesse : What could hee seeke more at their hands ? Or what could hee devise more ? And who would have doubted after such assurances ? Yet , that hee might not onely repose upon his enemies credit all his safety , hee accompanieth himselfe for his honour and suretie with as many as might secure him , and keepe him free from being in danger of any private mans forces . So relying ( for the Kings part ) upon his safe Conduct , and the Nobilities credit interposed therewith , hee cometh to Stirling , where the King was well attended and followed by his friends and servants , but in a peaceable manner ; being come into the Kings presence , after some sort of admonition to lead a more peaceable and orderly life , hee seemed to pardon him what ever was past , and kindely invited him to supper in the Castle : After they had supped cheerfully and merrily together , the King taketh him aside , and leadeth him into an inner roome , where there was none present besides them two and Patrick Gray , of whom wee spake before , how of his friend and Cousin hee was become his enemy , for the execution of the Tutour of Bombee . There the King beginning his speech from the valour and loyall fidelity of his Predecessours , came shortly to his owne indulgencie towards the whole Familie , and towards himselfe in particular . Then sharpely upbraiding him how oft hee had pardoned him , and what insolencies hee had committed : Douglas answered submissively , and craved pardon for what hee had offended against himself in any sort ; saying , his intention was not against him , but against his enemies : That as for others that would complaine , hee was ready to satisfie them according to justice , and at the Kings owne pleasure : There rests yet one thing ( saith the King ) the League betwixt you , and the Earle of Crawford and Rosse , I will have you presently to quite it . At that word the Earle was somewhat astonished at the first , yet gathering his spirits again , hee answered , that for him , hee knew nothing wherein that League could bee offensive to his Majesty , seeing that all duetie to him was especially reserved . The King replyed , I will have you presently to breake the same . Douglas answered , that if hee would have him to doe so , hee would bee pleased to give him leave to advertise the said Noblemen , and then hee would doe it , otherwise , hee would bee accounted a faith breaker , if having entered into friendship with them , hee should forsake them , not giving a reason why : And therefore besought him to have patience . The King replied in an angry manner , speaking aloud ; If you will not breake it , I will : And with those words , hee stabbed him in the breast with a dagger . At the same instant Patrick Gray struck him on the head with a Pole-axe . The rest that were attending at the doore , hearing the noise , entered , and fell also upon him ; and , to shew their affection to the King , gave him every man his blow after hee was dead . Thus died he by the hand of the King , but by the practices of his enemies , they being the choise movers , and the king yeelding to their motions , as if it had been his quarrell , ( for so they made it seeme to him ) whereas indeed it was but their owne particular ; or if his , it was but thus farre his , that he tooke it on him as his , espoused theirs as his owne , and imbarked himselfe therein . A common practice of Courtiers , who have Princes eares ; what ever is contrary to their will , is all against the King , is all presumption , is all high treason ; whereas indeed they are oft times themselves his greatest enemies , what ever shew of service and affection they make ; and they whom they call his enemies farre more heartily affected to him . They make the King alwayes wed their quarrells , beare their errours , and the whole hatred and envie of their enemies ; and oft times drawes him into great absurdities , besides and contrary his owne naturall disposition , to his great disgrace , or diminishing his grace , in the eyes of his Subjects , not without great perill of his life and estate . Happy the Prince that can rightly take up , and rightly discerne the quarrells which are indeed his owne , from those which others would have him thinke to bee his owne , and so understandeth the disposition of his Subjects , that hee account not all that is against his Courtiers , is against him , or all that is done by his Courtiers , is done for him . These Courtiers had gained this point of the King , and by that mean had brought him to doe that hard fact against this man as his owne enemy , as one aspiring to his Crowne ; where indeed never any such thing appeared to have been intended by him , or aimed at , but onely revenge against his private enemies . And for the other crimes that his enemies alledged against him ; small presumptions , cold conjectures , and no appearance there was of them . But above all this , the greatest pitie is , that they had power to bring such a King to commit such a fact , contrary to his faith and promise , solemnely sworne and sealed by himselfe , and by his nobility , to breake the bonds of all humane society . It is worthy the considering , to see their pretences and arguments set downe by Writers , which they used to move and induce him to consent and yeeld to this strange , and unnaturall fact . A Paradox in truth , though a Maxime in Matchivellisme : one of them is , Necessitie ; for they make him beleeve , first that the Earle Douglas did aspire ; then , that hee was so powerfull , that there was no other remedy for his aspiring ; all they bring , is but weake presumptions : and for his strength and power , hee was strong enough indeed to defend himselfe against his enemies , or an unjust force and violence ; but it had beene another matter unjustly to have invaded the Kingdome , for which hee was not so strong , as justice and a just title to a Crowne , which are of great force : and against which , that force , which otherwise and in another case may bee great , will prove nothing , for God hath given his image of authority with it , which so affects the hearts of men that they cannot but regard it , and this image being imprinted in their hearts is not easily abolished but by very enormous faults , and even scarce by any faults though never so extraordinary . So that it was errour in them to thinke , or craftinesse to perswade that there was no remedy in a just authority to defend it selfe by it selfe , and without forgoing it selfe and becoming injustice , and that in such a hatefull manner . Whereas by the contrary , this their way was not so safe and so certain a mean to defend himselfe , but had almost been the meane to deprive him of what hee would have had men thinke hee preserved by it ; that is , his Crowne , for the fact being so vile and base , it not onely moved the friends and followers of the Earle Douglas his house to rebellion , but also incensed the whole common people : for that if his brother who succeeded , had beene as politicke as hee was powerfull , the King might have beene set beside his Throne . And as it was , he was once in a great brangling , and had resolved to quit the Countrey , had it not beene for James Kennedies counsell , who was Bishop of S. Andrewes ; so farre was this fact from establishing his Throne , as they made him beleeve it would doe . Then for the honesty and lawfulnesse of it , it is to be diligently weighed : It is lawfull ( say they ) to catch fraud in the owne craftinesse . And indeed that saying is most true , good and conforme to all wisedome , being rightly understood , thus : Let fraud worke on fraudfully , untill hee be intangled and intrapped in his owne fraud , and so become guiltie and obnoxious to a lawfull and orderly avengement by justice : but that men to meet fraud , may justly use fraud , and that against all promises , seales , subscriptions , or oathes , to the extremitie of murthering , changing justice into injustice , in the very seat of justice , is not , nor ever was , nor ever can bee justified under any pretext whatsoever ; as being that which breaketh the bands of humane society . It is an unworthy Kingdome , which cannot otherwise defend it selfe , and it is unworthy of a King to stoupe to such unworthy and base wayes : It hath also beene by some pretended elsewhere to cover the foulnesse hereof , that hereby much bloudshed is eschewed , which would have beene , before such a man could have beene cut off , which I marvell is not alledged here also . But that is frivoulous amongst the rest , for it is the cause of much more bloud shedding , because it takes away all trust , and so peace , untill the warres end by the destruction of one party , which without trust cannot end by reconcilement , besides this , they insinuated it unto the King , as a point of want of courage in him , and cowardise , if hee durst not so much as deceive his enemy ; whereby they would meane , that it was courage to deceive him : An unhappy dareing to dare to doe wrong , and very far mistaken , and misnamed ! And last of all , they halfe menace to abandon him , and provide for themselves and their own safety , by taking part with Douglas as the stronger partie ; whom if the King did not make away , they would follow him , and that there was no other remedy left to them . Such boldnesse were they come to , thus to threaten their master , and Soveraign ! And such is the weaknesse of that place , where it submitteth it selfe to servants ! By these meanes was this good King ( farre contrary to his owne nature ) drawne on by them who had his eare to this unnaturall fact , as to that which was most lawfull and flat necessary , yet was neither this pretended necessitie , nor alledged lawfulnesse sufficient to defend it even in the judgement of the doers themselves . And therefore the Courtiers found out another mean to put some faire face , at least some colourable excuse upon it as they thought , for being ashamed of those allegiances , or distrusting that they would bee accepted for just causes of breach of faith , and fearing they should be detested of all men : they gave it out that the slaughter was not committed of set purpose , but that it fell out onely by chance , and that the King had no intention to kill him , till he himselfe by his indiscretion procured it , having irritated the King by his presumptuous answers . But this is a weake excuse , to commit murther contrary to promise , although hee had answered so : but there is no appearance of it , that it was but a sudden passion , neither was it beleeved in those dayes , as may be seen by the perswasions given him by the Courtiers : which while Writers set downe , they witnesse it was a set draught and fore plotted . For they say plainly also that the Courtiers would have had it appearing that it came by his arrogancy in his carriage and answers , but not that it was so indeed : besides there is a received tradition , that James Hamiltoun of Cadzow pressing in to follow the Douglas , Liviston being Uncle to James , and knowing the Earle was to die , gave him a blow on the face , and thrust him backe from the gate . James Hamiltoun drew his sword , which the other little regarding , held him off with a long halbert , and made the guard shut the gate against him , was exceeding angry at this affront in the time , but after when hee heard the Earle was killed , hee knew it was done for his safety . Hee had given too much matter for his enemies to worke on by his rash journey into England , and private conference with the King and Queene there : but this had beene forgiven him , as an oversight onely , which the King had ( apparently ) tried , and found to bee nothing else ; hee had beene vehement in the revenge of the murther of his Cousins and servant John Auchinleck , but that ( though vehement ) was not injust , and therefore wee finde him never charged with it as injustice : hee had against equitie executed the Lord Harries , yet hee had done it legally and by forme , and order of Law , whereof the particulars not being perfectly knowne , the judgement is difficult , yet is it not ( for any thing wee see ) any way to bee excused . The execution of the Tutor of Bombee was very good justice and irreproveable , though it bred him most hatred and ill will at Court. Other particulars are not mentioned . Onely they say that hee bore with theeves to have their assistance : An ill and unwise course , and ever pernicious to the users of it , for harming of such as they hate ! A farre worse , and unworthy fact , unfit for a generous minde to companion it selfe with them whom hee should punish , and to participate of the guiltinesse hee should correct ! But how farre he went in this point is not certain , at least is not specially set downe : and as for the speeches of his enemies reproching them unto him in the hatefullest sort , all must not bee taken for truth they say . All agree that he was a man of great power , great policy , great performance and execution , and greater expectation , in whom the name of Douglas rose to the greatest toppe of height , and with whom it began to fall , which was afterward accomplished in his successour , as shall bee said ; he was slain the 13. of February 1452. esteemed to have beene Fastings-Eve , ( or Shrove-Tuesday . ) after the Romane supputation , or in the yeare 1451. as Major reckoneth it according to the account of Scotland . He was Earle the space of nine yeares or thereabout , but left no children behinde him . Where he was buried , or what was done with his body , there is no mention made in History . Me laetho ante diem Chrightonus Rexque dedere , Ille necis causam praebuit esse manum . By Crighton and my King too soon I die , He gave the blow , Crighton the plot did lay . Of James the ninth and last Earle of Douglas , the eighteenth Lord , sixth Duke of Turraine , and fourth James , who died in Lindores . WIlliam being thus slain by the instigation of these Courtiers , his enemies , to the end that the King as they would have it thought might be established in his Crowne , by the making away of him whom they made the King to thinke so great an enemy to him ? It was so farre from producing that effect , that by the contrary there was nothing nearer , then that it should have been the very occasion of spoyling him thereof ; for the Earle Douglasses friends , who before tooke Creighton , and his faction onely for their enemies : Now they take the King for their enemy . They , who before thought not that what they had suffered proceeded from the King , or that it was his doing : now they impute them to him . They who before were onely male-contents , and within the bounds of obedience , and had a good opinion of the King : now they become enemies with an ill opinion of him as a wicked man. They who before contained themselves in civill termes , now become open rebellious : and whereas they had good hope , and looked for reconcilement , now cast off all hope thereof , and ( matters becoming irreconcileable ) all love and regard , all reverence , their hearts being laden with the injury , with the dishonesty , with the horrour of it , they burst forth into all outragious words , and deeds : things coming to that point , that they could not bee ended , but by the destruction of one of the parties . Either they behoved to ruine the King , or behoved to be ruined by him . And here the hardest lot at the first was the Kings ( by all appearance ) the power of the other party being so great , their minds so inflamed , their anger so incensed against him : neither the party onely , but the people in generall detested the fact and the horriblenesse of it , in such sort , that hee was put by all his shifts , and driven to such a point of despaire , as to thinke of leaving the countrey , and going by sea to France . For though the Earle himselfe was dead , yet had he left behinde him in the towne of Stirlin foure brethren , that were come thither to accompany him . The eldest of these , James , was provided to the estate three yeares before by the Kings consent ( upon the occasion of Earle Williams going to Rome in the yeare of Jubile ) to succeed to his brother after his decease . He therefore , with the rest of the Nobility who favoured them and their cause , having heard the report of Earle Williams being stabbed in that manner , being astonished with these sudden and unexpected newes , first ranne and tooke armes with great haste and tumult , but having contained themselves , and commanding their companies to be quiet , every man keeping within his owne lodging for that night , upon the morrow they assembled together in counsell , and according to the defuncts ordinance , and the Kings consent obtained thereto before , they acknowledged James lawfull heire and successour to his brother William . Then he with many vehement and bitter words , inveighing against the treasonable perjurie of the King and Courtiers , exhorts them who were present to lay siege to the Castle . Send ( sayes he ) for your friends and followers from all quarters , and let us withdraw out of their lurking holes those men who are onely valiant in perfidiousnesse , while as yet they waver , being uncertaine in their resolutions , and tremble with the guiltinesse of so horrible a fact . They who were present praised his pietie towards his dead brother , and also his courage ; but because they were come in a peaceable manner , and unprovided of things necessary for so great a worke , they abstained from the siege ; which if they had ( as the Earle gave advice ) resolved upon , and fallen to presently , while the odiousnesse ef the fact was yet greene and fresh before the eyes of men , the King and his partners being unprovided and unforeseene in any certaine course of their affaires , as neither able to consult , nor to meet for consultation , the Castle being inclosed , which being also ( as it is to be supposed ) not well victualled for a siege , the King could hardly have escaped their hands . Neither was the matter so difficult for them , to have remained , and sent for the rest of their friends , and any provision which they needed ; who might have come to them within five weekes , as they did themselves returne in that time , having given the King so much leasure to advise and prepare for them . Neither could the King ( for all that he had that space and time ) finde any meanes sufficient to match them . For having upon this their deliberation resolved upon the worst part , and departed to their houses , and taken full advice concerning all things , they returned the five and twentieth day of March , where all the way as they came along to Stirling , James Hammiltoun dragged the Kings safe conduct ( which had beene given to Earle William , having the broade Seale hanging thereat ) at the taile of an ill-favoured spittle sade , or mare , through the streets of all the towns and villages in their way , abstaining from no contumelious words , that they could devise against the King , his Counsellers and Courtiers . Being come to Stirlin , they went to the market Crosse , and there sounding with five hundred hornes and trumpets , they caused a Herauld to proclaim the King , and such as had been plotters and authours of E. Williams death , perjured traitors to God and man , and that they were to be abhorred , and detested by all men as such . Others write that they went to the Castle gate , and made that Proclamation in the Kings hearing , whiles he was looking on them , and that it was done the next day after the slaughter . Thereafter they pillaged the towne , and being angry even with the innocent and harmelesse place , they sent backe James Hamiltoun of Cadzow , and burnt it . Where this is to be considered , what could be the cause why these men ( who before were upon advisement to have besieged the Castle of Stirlin , and did not doe it then , onely because they were unprovided ) why these men ( I say ) now being come again and provided , abstained notwithstanding from besieging of it , having nothing to let them ; and which if they had obtained , they had withall obtained full victory , being masters of the field , the King inclosed and secluded from his favourers and partners , no others ( in likelihood ) could have made head against them ; for neither could any have taken that upon them , neither would the people ( as was thought ) have followed them , at least not so freely ; whether it was because they had no hope to force it ( being a strong place ) neither to famish it in haste ( being well provided of victualls ) or if they chose rather to deprive him of his partners abroad in the Countrey by forcing them to forsake him first , and then it would be easie to take the King who had nothing but the Castle walls to trust to ; or what ever else were the occasion thereof , our Histories ( very defective in this so speciall a point ) tell not ; But so it was , that they leaving the principall point unprosecute ( the King himself wherein would have consisted the whole summe of a full victory , and to which they should chiefly have directed their courses ) contented onely to have blazed his reproches , turned towards his friends , pilling and spoiling such as remained on his side , and even by this the King was so put to it , that he had determined to leave the Country and to fly into France , had not Archbishop Kennedie advised him to stay , and hope for better fortune , shewing him , that if he could keepe his person safe , and have patience to protract , and linger out the time a while , his adversaries faction would dissolve ere long , and fall asunder of it selfe . Amongst those who tooke part with the King , there were diverse of the name of Douglas , and that of the principalls , as Angus , brother to Archbishop Kennedie , by the mother , who was daughter to Robert the third , and sister to James the first , by whom therefore they were Cosins germain to the King , who was partly perswaded by his brother to take that course as fittest for him against the Earle Douglas , partly also accounted it right to follow him as his King , partly for kindred . There was also John ( or rather James ) Lord Dalkeith , who had married the Kings sister ( as Hollinshed writeth in the life of Mackebeth ) as also the manuscript in this same place , and the contract with the Earle of Morton yet beareth : Also the manuscript in the life of Grosse James ( this E. James father ) saith , the Lord Dalkeith , ( or Henry his sonne rather ) married the said Grosse James eldest daughter ; this James sister called Margaret : whether therefore having married the Kings sister , and so fracke on that side , or having married E. James sister , and being of the name , The Earle Douglas was so much the more incensed against him , that he should without regard of this tie have joyned with his enemies , and therefore besieged the Castle of Dalkeith , binding himselfe by an oath not to deport from thence , untill he had gotten it taken in . But it was valiantly defended by Patrick Cockburne and Clarkington , in such sort , that after he was constrained by great travell , and trouble of his men with watching , and many wounds to lift his siege and depart . The King had in the mean time conveened a company of men to have releeved the besieged , but finding that his power was not sufficient for that purpose , he resolved to attend the coming of Alexander Gordon , Earle of Huntley , his brother in law ( or sister sonne ) whom he made Lieutenant , and who they said was come in with a great Army collected out of the furthest parts of the North. But as hee was marching through Angus ( the twenty eight of May ) he was encountred at Brichen , by the Earle of Crawford , who lay for him there to stoppe his passage . There was fought a great battell betwixt them in such sort , that Huntleyes middle ward was almost defeated , and well nigh routed , not being able to sustain the impression of Crawfords army , which was so strong , that they failed but a little to overthrow the Kings Standard , brought thither and displayed by Huntley , had it not been for the cowardly and treacherous flight of John Collesse of Bonnie-Moone , to whom the left wing was committed by Crawford : He in the hottest of the conflict ( offended with Crawford , because he had refused him that same morning the Barrony of Ferme , or a part thereof , which lay neare to his house ) fled on set purpose out of the battell , and so left the middle ward naked on the one side of the speciall force , which the said Earle had , which was called the battell of axes , or billmen . By their flight , the rest ( who were almost victours ) were so terrified , that they turned their backs , and left the victory to Huntley , farre beyond his owne expectation ; and yet , not without a great slaughter of his friends , servants and followers ; and especially those of his name , amongst whom were two of his brethren . This battell was fought on the Ascension day , in the yeare 1453. hee had before the battell that same day given lands to the principall men of those surnames that were with him , as Forbesses , Leslies , Vrwines , Ogilbies , Graunts , and diverse others , which made them fight with greater courage . Crawford also lost many of his men , together with his brother John Lindesay , so that the losse on both sides , was accounted almost equall . Huntley had the name of the victory , yet could not march forward to the King , as hee intended , and that partly because of his great losse of men , partly for that he was advertised , that Archbald Douglas Earle of Murray had invaded his lands , and burnt the Piele of Strabogie . Wherefore hee returned speedily to his owne Countrey , which gave Crawford leasure and occasion to poure out his wrath against them , who had so traiterously forsaken him , by burning and wasting their lands , and casting downe their Houses and Castles . Huntley being returned to the North , not onely recompensed the dammage done to him by the Earle Murray , but also compelled him out of his whole bounds of Murray : yet it was not done without conflict and mutuall harme : for Huntley coming to Elgin in Murray , found it divided , the one halfe standing for him , the other halfe ( and almost the other side of the street ) standing for the Earle Murray : wherefore he burnt that halfe which was for Murray ; and hereupon rose the Proverb , Halfe done as Eglin was burnt . While he is there , Murray assembled his power , which consisting most of footmen , he sate downe upon a hill some two or three miles off , called the Drum of Pluskardein , which was unaccessible to horsemen . Huntley forrowed his lands to draw him from the hill , or at least to bee revenged of him that way , thinking hee durst not come into the plain fields , and not thinking it safe to assault him in a place of such disadvantage . But Murray seeing Huntlies men so scattered , came out of his strength , and falling upon foure or five hundreth horsemen , drave them into a bogue called the bogue of Dunkintie , in the bounds of Pittendreigh ; full of quag-mires , so deep , that a speare may be thrust into them , and not finde the bottome . In this bogue many were drowned , the rest slaine , few or none escaping of that company . There are yet to be seene swords , steel-caps , and such other things which are found now and then by the Countrey people that live about it . They made this round ryme of it afterward , Where left thou thy men thou Gordon so gay ? In the Bogue of Dunkintie mowing the Hay . These victories in the North , together with the repulse ( at least the retreat ) of the Earle Douglas from the Castle of Dalkeith did so encourage the King , that he began to conceive better hopes of his affaires , and by the counsell of Archbishop Kennedie he called a Parliament at Edinburgh , and summoned the Earle Douglas and his partners to compeir thereat . But the Earle was so farre from obeying , that he caused plackards to be affixed upon the Church doores , and other publick places , sealed with his seale , containing in effect , that from thenceforth he would neither obey citation , nor other commandement of the Kings , nor in any sort commit his life to him , who having allured his Cousins to Edinburgh , and his brother to Stirlin , under safe conduct , had traiterously murthered them without any order of law , and contrarie to his oath . Hereupon he and his three brethren , Archbald , Hugh , and John , together with Beatrix , Relict of Earle William , were declared Rebels , and forfeited , and with them Alexander Earle of Crawford , and James Lord Hammiltoun ; and that the number of the Nobilitie might not seeme to be diminished by their forfeiture , there were divers new Lords created , and the goods and lands of the forfeited given to them . Thereafter an Armie was levied to pursue them , their lands were wasted , their goods driven away , their cornes destroyed , and then ( winter comming on ) because the Armie could not lie in the fields , they were dismissed , and appointed to meet againe in the spring . But the Earle Douglas seemed to make small account of all this , and that the grandour of his house ( which was growne to that great height by that great marriage ) might not be impaired , and that estate transferred to strangers , he takes to wife the foresaid Beatrix , and deales with the Pope for a dispensation , and confirmation of the marriage . But that sute was crost by the Kings Letters . I finde it in an ancient book written of the Douglasscs in meeter , that she her selfe alledged , that her first husband ( Earle William ) had never carnall copulation with her , and that she gave her oath thereupon : which giveth some colourable excuse to this fact , which otherwise is so enormous , and void of all appearance that he could have beene so shamelesse as to have gone about it without some such reason , or pretext , which therefore I would not omit to intimate , and I remember not that I have read it elsewhere . However it were , he kept her as his wife , and continued the warres that yeare , and the next two yeares , pillaging and wasting the Kings possessions ; and the King doing the like to him , especially in Annandale , Galloway , and the Forrest . Hereupon ensued a Famine , and upon the Famine a Pestilence ; Townes and Castles were destroyed on both sides , and no kinde of hostilitie pretermitted . The King notwithstanding caused trie indirectly whether the Earle could be perswaded to yeeld himselfe to him , and the wisest of his friends counselled him to doe it , alledging that his Predecessours had often done so ; chiefly seeing he had a King of a gentle nature , and who would be entreated by friends , not to extinguish so noble a Familie , and undoe so many Noblemen as joyned with him , or to redact them to that necessitie ; that they should be forced to take a course for themselves ; that it would be easier for him to get some good quarters now , while matters were as yet not past reconciliation , and while his friends were about him , then afterward , when he should be deserted , and left alone : then there would be no hope of pardon . To this he answered , That he would never commit himselfe to the credit of those whom neither shame nor honestie could binde , who regarded neither the law of God , nor man : but having allured his Cousins and Brother with faire promises , had so traiterously and cruelly slain them , that hee would rather suffer all extremity , then come into their power . This speech was approved or reproved according to every mans disposition , some praising his magnanimitle and courage , some disliking his obstinacie , & exhorting him not to lose this good occasion of making his peace , which ( if his friends wearie of troubles should abandon him ) he would repent afterwards . He persisted in his opinion , and what for detestation of the fact , what for feare to be used after the same manner himselfe , if he should come into the Kings power ( as it falls out , and must of necessity , where trust , which is the ground of all peace and reconciliation , is taken away ) not suffering any thought of peace to come into his minde , resolved himselfe to trie the fortune of warre . But the Earle Crawford being wearie of so long troubles , apprehending the iniquitie of the cause , and weighing with himselfe the common changeablenesse of all humane affaires , and knowing that pardon would be easily granted to him who should preoccupy the Kings favour , and uneasie and difficult to those that should continue in armes , being left by a part of his friends , and suspecting the fidelitie of the rest , as the King was journeying through Angus , he casts himselfe in his way with a habit most composed to move pitie , bare footed , and bare headed ; he plainly confessed his offences in times past , put himselfe absolutely in the Kings will , commemorating the good offices done by his Predecessours ; that he acknowledged that whatever had happened to him , had happened by his owne default ; whatever life or fortune he should have thereafter , he would owe it to the Kings clemencie . These and such like speeches moved the Noblemen that were present , especially the Gentlemen of Angus , who although they had always followed the King , yet were loath that so ancient and noble an house should perish : chiefly Archbishop Kennedie , howbeit he had received many injuries of Crawford ( or his father ) yet considering of what importance it was to the King to have his owne forces increased by this accession , and his enemies diminished and weakned by want of so great a man , dealt earnestly with the King to receive him into his wonted place of honour and favour . Neither was the King difficult to be entreated , but graciously pardoned him , and restored him to his former condition both of goods and honour , onely admonishing him to doe his dutie in time to come . It is reported that the King being defirous to performe his promise ( which was to raze the house of Phineavin , the chiefe Mannour of the Earle Crawfords ) and to make the highest stone the lowest , he went up to the top of the house , and ( according to this promise ) threw down a little stone , which was lying loose above the built worke , to the ground , which is to this day kept in an iron chaine for a Monument and memoriall of this action . Some also write that the King tooke from him the lands of Badenoch and Loquhabre , and gave them to Huntley for the lands which he had distributed at the field of Brighen , as also the second place in Parliament , and honour of bearing the Scepter . Crawford died within six moneths of a burning feavour at Phineavin , and was buried in the Gray Friers at Dundee , in the Sepulchre of his Progenitors . The Earle Douglas informed hereof , and seeing his forces decay daily , and the Kings daily growing greater , he thought he would goe trie what succour or support he could have out of England , and for that effect he sent James Hammiltoun of Cadyou to K. Henry to desire his help in this estate . King Henry considering , and thinking the occasion fit for him to encroach upon Scotland , perswading himselfe that the Earle Douglas his passion of revenge on the one part , and the necessitie of his estate on the other ( two powerfull perswaders to move men ) should drive him to accept his help on whatever termes , was content to aide him upon this condition , that he should become his subject , sweare himselfe English , and so to continue for ever ; and for better assurance hereof , should put into his hands such Strengths and Castles in Scotland as he had in his custodie . Unto this Douglas replied very generously and honestly , That hee would never leave such a blot upon his house , and would rather choose to die by what ever hand , then commit such a crime against his Countrey , for a fault done by the Prince and some particular men onely , whereof he hoped to be avenged , without that shame . This being so honest a part , and testifying so honest a heart , as some of them have not had the like , even of those who pretended to be Kings themselves ( some of whom have not refused to render themselves and their Kingdomes to the English servitude , to be avenged of their enemies , and to obtaine the Crown for themselves ) is too lightly overpassed by our Writers , without the due testimony , approbation , and praise that it well deserveth . Besides , there can hardly be a clearer argument of his not affecting or aiming at the Crowne , which his brother and Predecessours were charged with , and traduced to the King : for had he beene that way set , he would have accepted of the proffer of England , and made use of their help , which ( questionlesse ) these Kings would not have denied him , according to their ordinary practice . And how many are there that would have forborne in such power , and upon such an occasion ? for although he seems to have no colour of title to the Crowne , yet men that aspire to it , doe seldome want their pretences , when they have power to search it . So that the greater is the pitie in so moderate prosecution of such a quarrell , that the event should have beene so hard on his side , which appeares yet better in that which followed . So left thus to himselfe , by the instigation of his partners , and namely of James Hammiltoun of Cadyou , hee gathered together his friends and followers to raise the siege of Abercorne , which the King had beset , and lay before it in his owne person . And when hee was come within five miles , or ( as others say ) within sight of the besiegers , they looked assuredly that he would , and that hee had resolved to fight , because he put his Army in order of battell ; and being very ready for their part , and forward , Cadyou also exhorting him thereto , that he would end these warres with a notable victorie , to his perpetuall praise , or with an honourable death , as became his house , that he would vindicate himselfe from those miseries and contumelies ; he utterly refused to fight , though he were more in number , saying plainly , his heart would not suffer him , nor serve him to fight against his Soveraign . Wherby it may be conjectured ( as saith the Manuscript ) that his meaning was only to have terrified the King , and brought him to some reasonable conditions of peace . But there wanted intercessours to deale betwixt them , partly because all were ingaged to the one or other side , partly for that they beleeved that he still persisted in his former opinion of distrust and indignation , and so nothing was done therein by any . Others interpret it to have bin cowardize , or faint heartednesse , and lack of courage ( for their words import so much ) a fault that was incident to few of that stock , and we never finde it imputed to any of them against England , or against any other private enemie ; neither to this man elsewhere , but only at this time . And we heard how after the killing of his brother his courage is commended , together with his piety . The reason of it hath been this ; then while his anger was recent , and green against the authors thereof , he could have done any thing to have been avenged ; now time having taken away the edge of that disposition , when he considered it was his King he had to do with , whose hand the Courtiers , his enemies , had onely borrowed ; his naturall affection , and regard of a subject toward his Prince , was returned , and by peece-meal had taken possession of his heart again , as the own proper lodging where it had been harboured ever before . Certainly this refusall to fight now , and his former rejecting the King of Englands disloyall conditions of help , have proceeded from one and the same disposition of minde . Wherefore seeing that ought highly to be praised , I see not how this can be condemned , at least how they can condemn it , that do so highly respect that high place of Kings . The word also will import , not altogether flat cowardise , but a natural sluggishnesse , & want of action , whereof cowardise is sometimes the cause , but not alway , though they concurre often . But there is another affection that makes men slack in action , which proceeds not either of sluggishnesse , or cowardise , but of irresolution ; when a man swiming betwixt two opinions , resolves not fully upon either , and this seemes to have beene his disposition . A great impediment in his actions , and at least in this last point of such importance , the cause of his ruine , while neither his heart could suffer him to betake himself against his Prince , whom naturally he affected , neither could he digest to forget the fact done , or ( after it ) to commit himself to the doer . Which disposition , though it have brought out the like effects as cowardlinesse and sluggishnesse are wont to do , to wit , lingring and eschewing of the battell , yet this did not proceed in him from either of these two , but had the originall from a very honest minde to his dutie . His love to his Prince strove and fought with another dutie , which was his love to his dead brother , or to his owne honour . Out of which , whileas he either cannot , or occasion is not offered to extricate himselfe , and winde out a full resolution , he suffered himselfe to be carried unto that which he was most inclined to , his love to his Prince , and thereby he slipt and let slide through his fingers ( as it were ) this faire occasion which was then offered unto him , of no lesse ( in the judgement of his friends ) then the casting the dice for the Crown . And so James Hamilton told him , that the occasion was such , that if he did not lay hold of it , he should never finde the like again : he told him withall , that his want of resolution would be his overthrow , as it was indeed . For James Hammiltoun himselfe left him that same night , and went to the King , of whom hee was so honourably and well received , that others thereby were encouraged to come in also . Yet others write that he was committed to ward in Rosseline for a certaine season , and afterward releeved at the entreatie of George Douglas Earle of Angus . However , by his information to the King of the estate of the Earle Douglas his Armie , how forward they had beene to have fought , and how discontented and discouraged they were with his lingring , how the greatest motive that kept them with him was their doubting of pardon for their former offences , the King caused make a Proclamation , that whosoever would come unto him , and forsake the Earle Douglas , should have free remission for all that was past , providing they came within 48. houres . This being published , the most part of the Earls Armie left him , so that there remained not ( ere the next morning ) with him above 2000. men , whereby he was constrained to leave the fields , and his friends and servants that were in Abercorne to be cruelly slaine , and executed ; for the Castle was taken by force , and demolished , to his no small reproach , in that he was so irresolute , and had not by some meane or other procured at least some honest composition for himselfe and them , or else to have adventured all . Where if he would not have taken the Kingdome , in case of victorie , yet might he honourably have set downe conditions of peace ; or if he had lost the field , he could not have lost more then he did ; for by these meanes , abandoned of all , he was constrained to flee unto England . In the yeare 1455. having gotten together a small company of men , he returned into Annandale , thinking to have found some friends in those quarters , which were his own lands before ; but there he was encountred by the Kings followers , especially by his own kinsman ( but the Kings Cousin ) George E. of Angus ( as some write ) who defeated him . His brother the Earle of Murray was slain in the field , and his other brother the Earle of Ormond was hurt , and taken prisoner ; after his wounds were cured , being brought to the King , he was executed , with greater regard to this last action , then respect to his victory obtained not far from the same place , at Sark , against the English , & Magnus with the red main , their insolent Champion , which was so greatly praised by the King before , and so acceptable to all Court and Countrey . Such is the course and vicissitude of all humane affaires . We heare of one onely sonne of Ormonds , named Hugh , Dean of Brichen , of whom we shall speake somewhat hereafter in the life of Archbald Earle of Angus , who was Chancellour of Scotland . His takers were the Lord Carlile , and Johnston of Johnston , to whom the King gave in recompence the 40. l. land in Pittinen upon Clide , to each of them a 20. l. land thereof . The third brother , John Lord of Balvenie , escaped in a wood , and the Earle himself by flight got him to Dunstaffage , where finding Donald Earle of Rosse , and Lord of the Isles , he incited him to make war against the King in his favours , and after he had ingaged him therein , he withdrew himselfe again into England . This is noted to have beene in the yeare 1455. after which there was a Parliament called ( about the fifth of June , or August , as the Acts beare ) wherein he , and his brother John , and his wife Beatrix , were againe forfeited , and their lands of Galloway annexed to the Crowne . This Beatrix ( who had beene his Brothers wife , and whom he had used and kept for his owne wife for certaine yeares ) came to the King , and excused her selfe , as being a woman , and compelled to doe what she had done . The King received her into favour , and married her to John Stuart his halfe brother ( by the mother ) and gave her the lands of Balvenie . This John was afterward made Earle of Athole in King James the thirds time : he had by Beatrix two daughters onely , the eldest of which was married to the Earle of Errole . This is cast in by some in the next yeare following . The Earl Douglas abandoned on all hands , travelled with Donald of the Isles , Earle of Rosse , conforme to their old band made with Earle William to assist him , and renew his claim to the Isles . Hereupon Donald wasted Argyle , Arran , Loquhaber , and Murray , took the Castle of Inner-Nesse , burnt the towne , and proclaimed himselfe King of the Isles : but his wife ( who was daughter to James Levingston , and had beene given to him in marriage at the Kings desire , of purpose to retain him the better in duty ) when she saw she could neither prevaile with him in that point , and that besides she was but contemned by him , and the barbarous people that were with him , she left him , and came to the King , who received her very gladly . About this same time Patrick Thornton , a secret favourer of the Earle Douglas his faction , though he had followed the Court a long time , slew John Sandilands of Calder the Kings Cousin , and Alane Stuart also , upon occasion at Dumbartan . These two were of the Kings side , wherefore the said Thornton was taken by the Kings Officers , and executed . These things being not yet fully settled , did greatly perplex the King , between domestick and forraign enemies . In the year 1457. the Earl Douglas came in with Henry Percie Earle of Northumberland to the Mo●…se , which as they were in wasting & pillaging , they were encountred by George Earle of Angus , and put backe to their Camp. Being irritated with this indignitie , they put themselves in order of battell , without staying for their full companies ; many of which were gone abroad into the Countrey and Villages for spoile and bootie , and so entred into conflict . When the noise hereof was carried to the eares of the sorrowers , they for feare of losing what they had gotten , which was a very rich and great prey , past directly into England , without regarding what became of the two Earles . Hereby the battell was lost by the English , but the losse of men was almost equall on both sides . This victorie did not a little recreate the King , and so affrighted Donald and his Islanders , that he sent and submitted himselfe to the King , and was received by him . Neither was there any farther insurrection within the Countrey . Neither did the Earle Douglas without the Countrey enterprise any thing by the aid of England ( they being distracted at home by the dissention of Lancaster and Yorke ) during the dayes of this King , which were not many : for about two or three years after this , the King alone was slain by the wedge of a peece of Ordnance of his own , and with him George Earle of Angus hurt amongst 30000. of his Armie ( of whom none else was either slaine or hurt ) at the siege of the Castle of Roxburgh in the 29. yeare of his age in September 1460 , some 8. yeares after the killing of Earle William in Stirlin Castle , at which time he was about the age of twenty one or twenty two yeares . Neither hear we any mention of the Earle Douglas his stirring in the next Kings ( James the thirds ) time , either in his minoritie ( being but a childe of seven or eight yeares of age at his coronation ) or in his majoritie ; either in the dissentions betwixt the Kennedies and the Boydes , or the dissention betwixt the King and the Nobilitie . Whether it bee the negligence and sloth of Writers that have not recorded things , or whether hee did nothing indeed , through want of power , his friends , and dependers , and vassals being left by him , and despairing of him , having taken another course , and his lands being disposed of to others ; so it is , that for the space of twenty yeares , or three and twenty , untill the yeare 1483. there is nothing but deepe silence with him in all Histories . Onely wee finde that hee was made Knight of the noble Order of the Garter by King Edward the fourth , and is placed first in order of all the Earles , and next to him the Earle of Arundell ( who is the first Earle of England ) in the booke , intituled , Nobilitas Politica ; and the English Heraulds say of him , that he was a very valiant noble Gentleman , well beloved of the King and Nobility , and very steadable to King Edward in all his troubles . These troubles ( perhaps ) have beene the cause that they could enterprise nothing in Scotland untill the foresaid yeare 1483. However it be , he hath the honour to be the first of his Nation admitted into that Order . At last then in the yeare 1483. Alexander Duke of Albanie , and brother to King James the third ( who was also banished in England ) and the Earle Douglas , desirous to know what was the affection of their Countreymen toward them , vowed that they would offer their offering on the high Altar of Loch-mabane upon the Magdalen day , and to that effect got together some five hundred horse ( what Scottish what English ) and a certaine number of English foot-men , that remained with Musgrave at Burneswark hill to assist them in case they needed . So they rode toward Lochmabane , and at their coming the fray was raised through Niddisdale , Annandale , and Galloway , who assembling to the Laird of Moushill ( then Warden ) encountred them with great courage . The English who were on the hill ( Burneswark ) fled at the first sight of the enemy , so that the rest behoved either to doe or die . And therefore they fought it out manfully from noone till twilight , with skirmishes , after the border fashion , sometimes the one , sometimes the other having the advantage . At last the victorie fell to the Scots , though it cost them much bloud . The Duke of Albanie escaped by flight , but the Earle of Douglas being now an aged man , was stricken from his horse , and taken prisoner with his owne consent , by a brother of the Laird of Closeburnes , in this manner : The King ( James 3. ) had made a proclamation , that whosoever should take the E. Douglas should have 100. l. land : the E. being then thus on foot in the field , wearied of so long exile , and thinking that he might ( perhaps ) be knowne by some other , seeing in the field Alexander Kilpatrick ( a son of Closeburnes , and one that had beene his owne servant before ) he calls on him by his name , and when he came to him , he said , I have foughten long enough against my fortune , and since I must die , I will rather that ye ( who have beene my owne servant , and whom I knew to be faithfull to me as long as I did any thing that was likely for my selfe ) have the benefit thereby then any other . Wherefore take me , and deliver me to the King according to his Proclamation , but see thou beest sure hee keepe his word before thou deliver me . The young man , who loved the Earle entirely in his heart , wept ( as is reported ) for sorrow , to see him thus aged , and altered in disguised apparell , and offered to goe with him into England . But hee would not , being wearied of such endlesse troubles ; onely hee desired the young man to get his life safe , if hee could obtaine so much at the Kings hands , if not , to bee sure of his owne reward at least . Hereupon Kilpatricke conveyed him secretly out of the field , and kept him in a poore cottage some few dayes , untill hee had spoken with the King , who granted him the Earles life , and gave unto himselfe the fistie pound land of Kirk Michaell , which is possest by his heires , unto this day . Some give the honour of this victory to Cockpool and Johnston , and make the number of those that came with Douglas and Albany greater , and say that King Richard of England blamed the Duke of Albanie for the losse thereof , and that he , discontented and taking it ill to bee so blamed , withdrew himselfe secretly into France . The Earle Douglas being brought to the King , hee ordained him to be put into the Abbacie of Lindores ; which sentence when hee heard , hee said no more but this : Hee that may no better bee , must bee a Monk , which is past in a Proverbe to this day . Hee remained there till the day of his death ( which was after the death of King James the third ) which fell out 1488. he being of a good age , and having beene a man in action from the beginning of his brother William now foure and fourty yeares . Some write that while he was in Lindores , the faction of the Nobility ( that had put Coghran to death , and punished some others of the Courtiers supported by the Kings favour ) especially Archbald Earle of Angus , ( called Bell-the-Cat ) desired him to come out of his Cloyster , and be head of their faction ; promising he should be restored to all his lands , which seemeth not very probable : But that which others write , hath more appearance , that the King desired him to be his Lievetenant against the Rebells ; but hee laden with yeares and old age , and weary of troubles , refused , saying ; Sir , you have kept mee , and your black coffer in Stirling too long , neither of us can doe you any good : I , because my friends have forsaken me , and my followers and dependers are fallen from me , betaking themselves to other masters ; and your blacke trunck is too farre from you , and your enemies are between you and it : or ( as others say ) because there was in it a sort of black coyne , that the King had caused to bee coyned , by the advise of his Courtiers ; which moneyes ( saith he ) Sir , if you had put out at the first , the people would have taken it , and if you had imployed mee in due time , I might have done you service . But now there is none that will take notice of me , nor meddle with your money . So he remained still in the Abbacy of Lindores , where hee died , anno 1488. and was buried there . THus began and grew , thus stood and flourished , thus decayed and ended the Noble House of Douglas , whose love to their Countrey , fidelity to their King , and disdain of English slavery was so naturall , and of such force and vigour , that it had power to propagate it selfe from age to age , and from branch to branch , being not onely in the stocke , but in the collaterall , and by branches also , so many as have beene spoken of here . They have continually retained that naturall sap and juice which was first in Sholto , then in William the Hardie , who died in Berwick ( who was in a manner a second founder ) in such a measure , that amongst them all it is uncertain which of them have beene most that way affected . This vertue joyned with valour ( which was no lesse naturall , and hereditary from man to man ) caused their increase and greatnesse : their Princes favouring them for these vertues , and they by these serving their Princes in defence of their Countrey : Their affection pressing them thereto , their worth and valour sufficing them , the hearts of the people affecting and following them : Their enemies regarding and respecting them , all men admiring them : so that in effect , the weight of warlike affaires was wholly laid on them . The Kings needed onely to give themselves to administer justice , consult , and direct , living at peace and ease , and in great quietnesse to use their honest recreations , from the latter dayes of King Robert Bruce , wherein there was a pleasant harmony , and happy concurrence ; the Kings ( as the great wheel and first mover ) carrying the first place in honour and motion , and commanding : and they in the next roome , serving and obeying , and executing their commandements ( as under wheels , turned about by them ) courageously , honourably , faithfully and happily , to the great honour and good of their Prince and Countrey . This behoved to be accompanied with greatnesse : for neither could service ( to any purpose ) bee done without respected greatnesse , neither had greatnesse beene worthily placed without service . Their power is said by some to have been such , that ( if they had not divided amongst themselves ) no Subject in this Island could have compared with them in puissance . But that which diminished their power , and ruined the Earle Douglas , was the falling of the houses of Angus and Morton , from them to the King : for the last battell the Earle Douglas was at , the Earle of Angus discomfited him ; so that it became a Proverbe , The Red Douglas put downe the Black : Those of the house of Angus , being of the fairer complexion . They might have raised ( thirty or fourty thousand men ) under their owne command , and of their owne dependers onely , and these most valiant : for their command was over the most expert , and most exercised in warre , by reason of their vicinitie , and nearnesse to England , which was their onely matter and whetstone of valour . They who give them least , give them 15000. men , who upon all occasions were ready with them to have ridden into England , at their pleasure , and backe even for their private quarrells , and have stayed there twenty dayes , and wasted all from Durham Northward , which no other private Subject could ever doe , upon their owne particular , without the Kings Army : this power ( as hath been said ) they used ever well , without giving of offence to their Prince in any sort , that we can reade of clearly and expresly set downe . Yet our Writers say , it was too great for Scotland . But how could it be too great , that was thus for the good of it ? for the Kings service ? for their ease ? making no rebellion , no resistance , no contradiction ? which ( we see ) they came never to , untill the killing of E. William at Stirling . Truely if we shall speake without partiality , their greatnesse was so usefull to their King and Countrey , that Hector Boetius stickes not to say , the Douglasses were ever the sure buckler , and warre wall of Scotland , and wonne many lands by their singular man-hood and vassalages : for they decored this Realme with many noble Acts , and by the glory of their Martiall deeds . And though their puissance was suspected to some of their Kings , and was now the cause of their declining , yet since that house was put downe , Scotland hath done but few memorable deeds of Armes : And we cannor say justly , that they gave any cause of jealousie . Princes were moved to conceive it without just occasion given by them , unlesse it were a fault to be great : whether they were jealous of their owne naturall inclination ( as jealousie is esteemed ordinarily to the highest places ) or by the suggestion of others , that were mean men , and so envious of great men : the one inclining to jealousie , the other working on that inclination , however notwithstanding of all this , they stisl behaved themselves towards their Princes moderately , obeying them to warding , and after releeving to warding again , at their Kings pleasure , without any resistance whatsoever , as may be seene in the Earle of Wigton , which being well considered , the cause of their stirring , or commotion against their Prince ( which was never till this last man ) will appeare not to have proceeded from their greatnesse , enterprising against their Prince , or aspiring to his Throne , ( although the meane men , and new start-up Courtiers perswaded the King so , for their owne advantage and ends ) but the cause was indeed the aspiring and ambition of these mean men , who laboured to climbe up into their roomes by their decay , neither was this their aspiring by vertue , but by calumnies , and flattering , fostering the foresaid jealousie . I know it is a maxime in Policie , and that plausible to many ; That Princes should not suffer too great Subjects in their Dominions ; yet it is certain , that without great Subjects there can be no great service . Things may be shufled at home , but abroad there can never any thing bee done to the purpose , or of note . But now the question is where great men are already ; whether it bee best thus to undoe them , and make up new men by their ruine , or not : a thing worthy to bee considered : and also , whether or not there be a possibilitie to use great men to good uses ; and ( if possible ) whether it were not better to doe so , then to goe about to undoe them : whether also there be not in undoing of them such great hazard ( as we see ) that though it may succeed at last ( as it did here ) yet it is not so good wisedome to adventure upon it with such trouble and uncertaintie . Truely , that which made it to succeed , was the very honest heart of this last Earle James ; who , if either hee would have turned English , and cast off all respect to his native Prince , or entered into battell against him at Abercorne , it had proved an unwise course so to have affected the advancement of these mean men ; and not rather to have used them well , that were become already great . And therefore the Writers finde no other cause of this successe on the Kings side , but the onely providence of God , who had not determined to give the Crowne to the Douglas , but to continue it in the right line ; which though the Douglas did not aime at , yet being driven to this necessity , either to lose his owne estate , or to take the Crowne in case of victory , hee could hardly have refused it , if it should have come to that , but hee chose rather to lose his owne ; and lost it indeed by a rare modesty , which is even disallowed by Writers , who interpret it to have beene fearefulnesse , or lazinesse ; so hard is it to know the right , and not to incurre some censure in our actions : how ever it bee , this appeares most certain , that their meaning to their Prince and Countrey hath ever beene good , and that even in this man. Their errours and faults whatsoever they fell into , they were drawne to them by the malice of their particular enemies , and the Princes assisting , fostering and maintaining them in their wayes , thereby to undoe that Earledome , jealous of their Crowne , and that they might reigne ( perhaps ) with greater libertie , and fuller absolutenesse , which their Courtiers perswaded them they could not doe , so long as they stood . But it comes not ever so to passe ; and though it came here so to passe in this Kings dayes ( which were not many ) yet in his sonnes dayes , wee shall see it fell out otherwayes : for out of these mean men ( at least in respect of the house of Douglas ) there arose some who proved as great , and greater restrainers of that liberty , then ever the Earles of Douglas were . So that if that bee the end of cutting off great men ( to obtain greater liberty ) wee see it is not alwayes attained , and doth not ever follow upon it ; yea , wee shall see , that almost it never ( or but for a very short while ) produceth that effect . It is therefore worthy to be examined , whether it be to be sought , or to be bought at so deare a rate , such hazard and trouble . But this is the vicissitude of this rolling world ; let men consider it , and reverence the Ruler . Jacobus Comes Lindorensi coenobio inclusus . Quid rides rasumque caput , cellaeque recessum ? Quodque cucullatis fratribus annumeror ? Fortunâ volvente vices siet modo Princeps , Plebeius : Monachus saepè Monarcha fuit . Why doe you laugh to see my shaven Crowne ? My Cell , my Cloyster , and my hooded Gowne ? This is the power of that Soveraigne Queen , By whom Monkes , Monarches ; Monarches Monkes have been . Another . Both Fortunes long I tri'd , and found at last , No State so happy as an humble rest . Georgius Angusiae comes . Anvici Gallos obsessos undique laetho , Scotorum , eripuit te duce parva manus , Te duce Duglasius , victus quoque Percius heros Militiae statuunt clara tropheae tuae : Sed consanguinei , sed quid meruere propinqui ? O furor , O rabtes , perdere velle suos ? Matrem ingrata necat crudeli vipera , morsu Stirpem , quâ genita est noxia vermis edit His non absimilis fueras : per te domus illa Eversa est ortum ducis & unde genus , Non me ventosa ambitio , non dira cupido Egit opum me non impulit invidia Ferre parem poteram , poteram vel ferre priorem , Contentusque mea sorte beatus eram : Ast Regi parere & jussa facessere fixum ; Fas quoque semper er at , fas mihi semper erit George Earle of Angus . Thou ledst a handfull , who from death did free The French besieg'd at Anwick : victory , Though bloudy from the Noble Piercy gaind , Increast thy honour : but against thy friend And kinsman , what strange fury turn'd thy force ? What madnesse to destroy thy owne , 't was worse Then Vipers cruelty , compell'd to eat Their way or die ; thine was a needlesse hate : No vain ambition oversway'd my heart , No love of wealth , no envie had a part In what I did , I could an equall beare : Nay , did not grudge though Douglas greater were , Content with what I had , I happy liv'd , But 't was my Prince his will and 't is beleev'd Lawfull , and Justice hath pronounc't it good To serve our King , without respect of bloud . Aliud . A solo potuit Pompeius Caesare vinci , Non nisi Romano milite Roma cadit , Duglasios nem●… cùm posset vincere , solus Duglasium potuit vincere Duglasius . Another on the same . Pompey by Caesar onely was o'recome , None but a Romane Souldier conquered Rome : A Douglas could not have been brought so low , Had not a Douglas wrought his overthrow . Here endeth the first Part , containing the History of the House of Douglas . THE SECOND PART OF THE HISTORY OF THE DOUGLASSES , CONTAINING THE HOUSE OF ANGUS . By Master DAVID HUME of Godscroft . EDINBURGH , Printed by EVAN TYLER , Printer to the Kings most Excellent Majestie . 1643. Of the House of ANGUS , before it came to the name of DOUGLAS . THe great and potent House of Douglas ( of which we may say , the best subjects that ever served Prince , the worthiest seconds that ever seconded any , worthie for their modestie to be seconded by others , second to none in all vertue , and true worth of valour , magnanimitie , kindenesse , courtesie , faithfulnesse to King , Countrey , and kinred , serving their Prince , and served by the rest , worthily served , worthie to be served , as knowers of service , and recompencers there of in due proportion , and degree , as Charters of Lands liberally given do testifie ) being thus brought to this pitifull end , there arose in place thereof the House of Angus , of which we come now to speak , and to view in the descent of it . If we shall consider it in our best discourse , with all circumstances due to it , and compare it with the former , to which it succeeded , ballancing all things aright , we shall finde it , as not fully so great in that huge puissance and large extent of lands and rents that the house of Douglas had ( which did surpasse all others that were before , or have been since amongst subjects , ) so shall it be seen otherwise nothing inferiour . In antiquitie Angus is thus far beyond it , that there have been diverse I hanes of Angus ( which was a degree of honour in those dayes equall to that of Earles now ) as also that the Earles of Angus were created amongst the first that carried the title of Earles in the year 1057. or 1061. at the Parliament of Forfaire in the dayes of King Malcolme Kenmore ; whereas the house of Douglas was honoured onely with the title of Barons , or Lords . This is much preferment , yet it is more , that in our Chronicles the name of the house of Douglas is then first found , whereas Angus is found 200. years before that time in the 839. year , howbeit we have already showne that there were Douglasses in the year 767. though not mentioned by our Writers . In bloud they are equall on the fathers side , as being descended of the same progenitours ; so that what ever belongs to the house of Douglas before James slain at Otterburn , belongs also to the house of Angus ; the first Earle of Angus of that surname being brother to him , and both of them sonnes to William the first Earle of Douglas , or rather the first Earle of Douglas , being also Earle of Angus in effect , seeing his wife was Countesse of Angus , howbeit he used not the stile . By the mothers side , the house of Angus hath the preeminence , being descended of the greatest in the Kingdome , and even of the Royall stock , having been divers wayes mingled therewith . In vertue , valour , and love of their Countrey , it resembleth the spring from whence it flowes , and comes nothing short of it . In credit , authority , place , and action , account , favour , and affection of men , we shall finde it no lesse beloved and popular , and no lesse respected and honoured . So that with all this ( both likenesse , and no great inequalitie ) bearing the name of Douglas , together with the armes , and title of Lords of Douglas , the fall of this former house was the lesse felt , it seeming not so much cut off , as transplanted ; nor destroyed , as transferred ; some comfort it is , when it comes so to passe , as may be seen in many others . To deduce then the house of Angus from the first originall thereof , it is declared by our Writers , that Kenneth the second son to Alpine , the 69. King , having expelled the Picts out of his Kingdome , did dispose of their Lands to his Noblemen , and such as had done him good service in the warres . In which distribution he gave the Province ( of old called Orestia ) to two brothers , the elder of which was named Angus , or ( as Buchanan ) Aeneas , and the younger Merns . These two brothers dividing that Province betwixt them , gave each of them his name to that half he possessed , and so of one they made two , calling the one Angus , and the other the Merns , as these Countreyes are so called at this present . This is the first Thane of Angus , from whom that Countrey took the name . 2. After him we read of other Thanes , as of Rohardus , Radardus , or Cadhardus , who slew Culenus ( the 79. King ) for ravishing his daughter . 3. Also there was one Cruthnetus ( in the reigne of Kenneth , brother to Duffe , in the year 961. ) who was slain by Crathelint , who was his own grand-childe by his daughter Fenella , or Finabella , married to the Thane of the Merns . 4. Then we have one Sinel , ( in the reigne of Malcolme the second son to this Kenneth , who began his reigne 1104. and reigned 30. years ) who married Doaca or Doada , younger daughter to King Malcolme , whose elder sister Beatrix , was married to Crinen , Thane of the Isles , and principall of the Thanes , whom that age called Abthane . 5. Of this marriage was procreat Mackbeth , or Mackbed , or Mackabee , Thane of Angus , and afterward King of Scotland , of whom the History is sufficiently knowne . 6. The last Thane was Luthlack , son to Mackbeth , who was installed King at Scone after his fathers death , but within three moneths he was encountered by King Malcolme ; and slain at Strabogie . This was about the year 1056 , or 57. And so much of the first period of the house of Angus , under the title of Thanes . The second period of the house of Angus , is under the title of Earles , before it come to the name of Stuart . The first is , one made Earle by King Malcolme , at the Parliament of Forfaire , where Boetius telleth expresly , that the Thane of Angus was made Earle of Angus . The next is in the dayes of King David ( called Saint David ) in the warres with Stephen King of England , in the battell at Alerton , where the Generall the Earle of Glocester was taken prisoner ; the Scottish Army is said to have been conducted by the Earles of March , Stratherne , and Angus , in the year 1136. or 37. but he is not named . The third is Gilchrist ( in the year 1153. ) in the reigne of Malcolme the maiden , who did good service against Sumerledus , Thane of Argyle , and being married to the Kings sister , having found her false , put her to death ; and fearing the King , fled into England , and afterward was pardoned . Then we have John Cumin in the dayes of Alexander the second , in the year 1239. of whom wee read nothing , but that he was sent Ambassadour into France to Lewis then King , and that he died by the way before he had delivered his Ambassage : Boetius , Hollinshed . This was about 1330. The third period is in the surname of Stuarts ; of whom the first is one John Stuart entitled Earle of Angus , Lord of Boncle , and Abernethie , in a Charter given by him to Gilbert Lumsden of Blainerne , yet extant in the hands of the house of Blainerne . It is not dated , but the witnesses show the time , for Randolphus custos regni Scotiae is one . What this John was is uncertain , but in likelihood he hath been brother to Walter ( the seventh from the first Walter ) and sonne to John , and so also uncle to Robert the first King of that Name , for so the time doth bear , and his father John ( or himself ) married the heir of Boncle , and was slain at the battell of Falkirk in the year 1299. This John was slain at Halidoun hill , together with his brother James , and Alane . ( Buch. lib. 9. ) 2. The second is , Thomas ( apparantly sonne to John ) who assisted the Earle of Douglas , and the Earle of March in their taking of Berwick , in the year 1357. or 58. he died in the Castle of Dumbartan , having bin imprisoned there , but for what , is not known . 3. Then Thomas again , father to Margaret Stuart Countesse of Marre and Angus . 4. Last of all Margaret Stuart , daughter to this Thomas , married first to Thomas Marre Earle of Marre in her fathers lifetime apparantly . And after her fathers death ( who died without heirs male ) she was heir to her father by the renunciation of her sister Elizabeth ( who was married afterward to Alexander Hamilton of Cadyowe ) and so she was Countesse of Marre and Angus , Dowager ( or Lady tercer ) of Marre , and inheritrix of the Earldome of Angus . Her first husband dying without issue , she was married after his death to William the first Earle of Douglas , she being his third wife ( as hath bin shewed ) in the year 1381. She was a kinde Lady to her friends , loving to her sister Elizabeth , and a carefull mother to her sonne George . Earle of Angus . She is never designed Countesse of Douglas , either for distinction , being better known by her titles of Marre and Angus , or because these were more ancient , and no lesse honourable . She is the twelfth from Bancho , and tenth from Walter the first Stuart , and she is the last of that Name in the house of Angus . And thus much of the house of Angus in generall before it came to the Douglasses , of whom now it is time to speak . Of the first Earle of Angus of the Name of Douglas . of William the first Earle of Douglas and Angus . WE shall do no wrong to reckon William ( the first Earle of Douglas ) as the first Earle of Angus , also of the Name of Douglas , seeing he married the inheritrix of Angus . Nay we should do him wrong to omit him , being the root from which all the rest are sprung . He was the first Earl of Douglas , and first Earl of Angus of the Name of Douglas , though it be true that he was 23. or 24. years Earl of Douglas before he came to be Earl of Angus , and that is all the difference betwixt the antiquitie of these two houses in the possession of that Name . Now that it was Earle William himself , and none else , it is evident by a bond made by the said Earle William to his sister Marjorie ( Countesse of Marre ) for the due payment of the said Marjories third , let to him and Margaret Stuart ( Countesse of Marre and Angus ) where he calls her his wife . Also that the same Earle William was father to George , it is clear by a Charter of Tutorie , and entaile made by Sir James Sandilands of West-Calder to George , in which Sir James speaking sayes thus , The Land of Calder were given to my father and mother of good memorie by my Lord Sir William Earle of Douglas and Marre his father : that is , father to George . Of the life of this William we have spoken in the house of Douglas , whither we referre the Reader . Of George Douglas , second Earle of that Name , and sonne to Margaret Stuart Countesse of Marre and Angus . GEorge his sonne entreth to the Earledome in the year 1389. the 9. of Aprile , a boy of seven or eight years old at most , for he was born but in 1381. which is the first year that we finde his father and his mother married . His mother resigned the Earledome of Angus in his favour at a Parliament in the aforesaid year 1389 , the 9. of April , so that he hath the title of Earle of Angus , from that time forth , notwithstanding his mother was alive . He had to wife Mary Stuart daughter to King Robert the third , being then about 16. or 17. years of age . All that we hear of him in our Histories is , that he was taken prisoner with the Earle of Douglas , at the battel of Homeldoun in the year 1402. When he died is uncertain , onely thus much we know , that his sonne William kept Courts as Earle in the year 1430. So he hath lived 42. or 43. years . And certainly he hath not lived long ; for after his death Mary Stuart his wife was twice married , first to the Lord Kennedie , and bare to him John Lord Kennedie , and James Arch-bishop of Saint Andrews , who are called brothers to his sonne George Earle of Angus . Then she was married to the Lord John Grahame of Dindaffe-moore , and bare to him Patrick Grahame Bishop also of Saint Andrews , and James Grahame first Laird of Fintrie . His children were William and George , both Earles of Angus after him . Of William the third Earle of Angus , and second of that Name ( of William ) TO George succeeded William his sonne by Mary Stuart , as all our writers do testifie , and all men acknowledge , He was amongst those that were committed to prison by King James the first , in the year 1424. After this he was employed to receive the Castle of Dumbarre , when the Earle of March was imprisoned , in the year 1435. the 29. of King James the first his Raigne , he was made warden of the middle March. In the year 1436. he was sent against Percie , who , either by private authority , or publick allowance , had entred Scotland with 4000. he was about the same number : and had with him in company men of note , Adam Hepburne of Hales , Alexander Ramsay of Dalhousie , Sir Gilbert Johnstoun of Elphinston . They fought at Piperdain or Piperdean ( as say Boetius and Holinshed ) perhaps Harpardean by Hadington : for we see that most of them are Lowthian-men that are remarked to be in his company , yet it is hard to think that Percie could come so farre in with so few . The Earle of Angus was there victor , beginning his first Warres upon Percie , fatall to the Name belike . There were slain of the English 400. together with Sir Hénry Cliddisdalo , Sir John Ogle , Sir Richard Percie Knights ; taken prisoners 1500. Of the Scots one onely of note was slaine , Sir Gilbert Johnstoun of Elphinston ( Buchanan cals him Alexander , but amisse ) a gentleman of singular approved vertue ( sayes Buchanan ) and Boetius tells the manner , while he pursues the enemy too eagerly . Before this , Archbald Earle of Douglas , and Wigton was gone into France male-contented with the government , having been twice committed prisoner , to receive his Dukedome of Turaine . Every mi●…-hap is good for some body : that gave occasion and way to this employment , for while the house of Douglas was present , who but they for service against England ? who but they were able to do it ? Now they being absent , who but a Douglas ? A branch of that tree , and not long since come of it , especially being the Kings Cousin so near . So they begin , and so they shall continue with the like vertue . We hear not whom he married , nor any thing of his children , save of his sonne James who did succeed to him . Neither is it known when he died precisely : onely we finde that he was dead before the 1437. the 27. of Februarie . So that reckoning from the first year of his fathers marriage ( in the 1398. ) he hath lived some 41. years in all , and 13. years Earle , from the 1424. Of James the fourth Earle of Angus of the surname of Douglas . AFter William , his sonne James was Earle . Our warrand is a writ , where he is served heir to William his father in Killiemoore , of the date 1437. Febr. 27. some 6. or 7. years after the death of King James the first . There are also diverse other writs of this kinde extant , which do witnesse that he hath been , but of no use in publick , or for historie . Whither ever he was married , or had any children we hear nothing . He dieth before the year 1452. There is one thing not to be omitted , which is a bond of Robert Fleming of Cummernald , to him ( where he is entitled James Earle of Angus Lord of Liddisdale , and Jedward Forrest ) to enter within the iron gate of the Castle of Tantallon or Hermitage , under the pain of 2000. marks upon eight dayes warning . The cause is subjoyned , because he had burnt the Earles Corne within the Baronie of North-Berwick , and taken away his Cattell there on Fasting-even , or Shrove-tuesday . It is dated in the year 1444. the 24. of September . This burning is a token of no good will even then betwixt the house of Angus , and the house of Douglas , whereof the Lord Fleming was a follower . Even then , I say , before the time of William slain at Stirlin . For this seemes to have fallen out about the time of Grosse James , or ( it may be ) in the beginning of Earle William . But it is hard to conceive how this man ( a depender of the Earles of Douglas ) should thus farre have bowed himself , and it is a token , that the Earle of Angus authority hath not been small . Howsoever , on these grounds we restored him to his own place , being left out altogether by all other that I have seen . Of George Douglas , the second George and fifth Earle of Angus . TO James succeeded his uncle George , by the consent of our whole writers , who ( all ) speaking of King James the second , call this George the Kings fathers sisters sonne . So the King and he , are brother and sisters children . We need not to impugne the received opinion ; The time and computation of years will admit it sufficiently , for though he were born two years after his fathers marriage 1400. yet shall he not passe 63. at his death . Neither doth any other thing that I know of , hinder us from beleeving this deduction . Wherefore we will follow them , though we have no other monument to testifie so much expressely , or to hinder him from being sonne to James . There is this scruple in it , that Buchanan calls James Kennedie ( Arch-bishop of Saint Andrews ) of greater age then George Douglas . Which if it be true , then George could not be his brother , for their mother was first married to Angus . We have monuments of him as Earle in the year 1452. May 24. and in the 1461. the last of September ; and of his sonne retoured heir to him in the 1463. So that he hath been Earle about 10. or 11 years . But our histories say it was he that assisted Creightoun to spoile the Earle Douglas Lands of Strabroke , &c. from about 1445. or 46. years , and so his time shall be 17. years . He married Elizabeth Sibauld daughter to Sibauld of Balgonie Treasurer of Scotland for the time , profitably , and not dishonourably . For his place of Treasurer was a place of credit and honour , and himself descended of honourable race , viz. the Earles of Northumberland ; who were of that name in the dayes of Malcolme Kenmore , and Grandfather to the said Malcolme by his mother , and had the leading of the English Army that was sent in for his aide against Mackbeth , to the number of 10000. men . We finde also the name of Sibards in the dayes of King Alexander the second to have been in good account , of whom Buchanan writes that they entertained feed against the Earle of Athol , as also that the said Earle of Athol being burnt in his lodging in Hadinton , the chief of the Sibards whom he calleth William , without any further designation ( Boetius calleth him John ) being suspected thereof because of their known enmity , was called in question for it , and arraigned . And although he proved by the testimonie of the Queen , that he was in Forfaire at that time ( some 60. miles from Hadinton ) yet the Judge thought not this sufficient to absolve him , because the other party alledged that his servants and followers had been seen very many of them in the Town . And although he offered to purge himself by combat , it could not be accepted : Whereupon he fearing the power of his adverse party ( which were the Cumins ) fled into Ireland with a number of his name . By which relation it appears that this name hath been in good account , and this marriage no way disparageable . It was also profitable in effect , but more in hope , which was to have succeeded heir to the estate of Balgonie , both Lands and Moveables , she being his onely daughter , and he himself and his Lady of good age , the Contract also being made so that he should be heir , failing heirs male of his own body , whereof there was small appearance ; Yet ( as it often falls out in such cases , the Divine providence eluding humane wisedome , that they may know that there is a directing and over-ruling wisedome and power above theirs ) that hope was disappointed . His mother in law dieth , his father in law marrieth a second wife , and by her hath heirs male to inherite his Lands . I think if he had known what was to come , he would not have done it . And yet is Balgonie disappointed also , for his sonne had but one daughter who was married to Lundie , and so transferred it from the name , where he thought to have settled it . Angus gets with his Lady . 3000. Marks of portion , no small summe in those dayes when portions were little and the terms of payment long . His children were Archbald , and another son , whose name we have not . Some tell us of James Earle of Angus , and Lord Warden of the borders . But when should he have been Earl of Angus ? for Archbald succeeded to George ; and to Archbald his grand-childe Archbald . The truth is this James was before son to William , as hath been said ; yet it may be that he hath had a son named James also , though Writers do not name him . He had foure daughters ; first Elizabeth , married to Robert Grahame of Fintrie ; second Margaret , to Duncan Campbell ; third Giles ; and fourth Alison , of whose marriage there is no mention . He had also a son naturall , of whom are descended the house of Bonjedward . His daughters were not married in his own time ( belike they have been young ) but their brother in the year 1476. contracts with Robert Grahame of Fintrie , to marry his sister Elizabeth , failing her , Margaret ; and failing Margaret , Giles ; and failing Giles , Alison ; so soon as a dispensation can be obtained , for they were within the degrees then forbidden , she being the third from Mary Stuart the Kings Daughter , and Robert Grahame in the same degree ( belike ) son to James Grahame . The portion is 400. Marks . Margaret was married to Duncan Campbell ( we know not of what house ) in the year 1479. Her brother contracts for 600. Marks , and findes Robert Douglas of Loghleven , and Alexander Ramsay of Dalhousie suretie for it . Her mother gives her bond for their relief . To return to Earle George , we finde that he was a man very well accomplished ; of personage tall , strong , and comely : Of great wisedome , and judgement . He is also said to have been eloquent . He was valiant and hardie in a high degree . His father ( carrying the name of George also ) we saw how by his mothers help he raised and advanced the house many wayes , almost doubling the estate of it , as it was before him , this man reares it up a great deal higher upon the ruines of the house of Douglas : yet doth he also diminish his own patrimonie and revenues of Angus , whiles to gain service and dependancie , he bestowes liberally , chiefly his lands of Angus , for he redacted the greatest part thereof from propertie , to superioritie onely , there being above 24. Barons , and Lords in Angus , that hold their lands of the Earles of Angus . His determination was fully to follow the King , though against his Chief and Cousin . But the King who had espoused the quarrell , and made the Earle Douglas party , was nearer to him in bloud , and therefore reason inclined his minde more to him . Besides he was a King , duety required his assistance . Hope also swayed the ballance greatly : There is hope of a Kings liberality , chiefly when Lands come in dealing and parting . And he being a Douglas , and the Lands having belonged to a Douglas , he had great probabilitie to expect a large share in them . For to whom could they be given so justly and pertinently ? His brother Bishop Kennedle could well egge him on . There was no hope of rising for him , that huge tree of Douglas standing which over-topt all others , and over-shadowed the whole borders , and almost the whole Kingdome . He was younger ( this Bishop ) than Angus , but wise , vertuous , learned , and of authority : Experience also had given occasion of late to think that the house of Douglas drew all to themselves . The maiden of Galloway ( the Earle of Wigtons daughter ) was thought fittest to have been matched to some other Douglas being near to the Earle ( as was thought then ) and the house too great already in the Kings eyes , not to be augmented . But he would none of such wisedome , he marrieth her himself , and disappoints them all , who could look for any rising by these mens means ? Or in their standing in such greatnesse ? yet the cause seems to go higher than the Kings cause : For even when the Earle of Douglas had the Kings authority on his side , and Creighton was denounced Rebell , Angus assists Creighton against the Kings authority . Wherefore in all likelihood the course hath begun in King James the firsts time . Then hath the house of Angus entred into friendship with Creighton in the dayes of William Earle of Angus , which hath continued in the time of Earle James his sonne , whose Lands Robert Fleming therefore did burn and spoile in the Baronie of North-Berwick . And now that course begun then , is here prosecuted by Earle George to the utmost point . A pitie of such dissention in these houses , or one house rather , against which if it had not been thus divided in it self , their enemies could hardly have prevailed . For it cannot be denyed but the house of Douglas had great wrong , and was treacherously dealt with by Creighton , neither did it ever intend any thing against the King ; but the King was drawn to the partie against it : though in the good cause of it , it committed errours , it is to be pitied , and lamented ; for who doth not . Also George Earle of Angus declares not himself openly against the house of Douglas for a time . The support that he is said to have given to William Creighton is said to have been done covertly at the spoiling of Strabroke and Abercorne . Neither after that , untill such time as the King declared himself openly , slew William Earle Douglas at Stirlin , and made open Warre against James who succeeded to him . Then he also declared for the King , and bent his whole force and power to aide him . He had that same year before 1452. the 24. of May , taken a course for keeping good order in his Countrey of Liddesdale , and to keep his Castle of the Hermitage safe for him , and that his folks should do no hurt to others , nor receive any of the enemies . He had for that purpose made Sir Archbald Douglas of Cavers ( Sheriffe of Roxbrough ) and William his sonne , Bailiffs of Liddesdale , and keepers of the Castle , who undertook , and bound themselves to do what we have said , for which he allowed them a large recompence and reward , as the Indenture thereof ( yet extant ) doth testifie . He is stiled in it Warden of the east marches , William Earle of Douglas being then alive . Some give unto him the honour of the battell in which the Earle Douglas was defeated in Annandale , where the Earle Murray was slain , and Ormond taken in the year 1455. Others attribute all to the Lord Carlile , and Johnston . But however that was , in the year 1457. he defeated the said Earle , and Henrie Percie Earle of Northumberland on the east border ( which was his wardenrie ) in a bloudy battell . For the Earle of Douglas , and Northumberland ( a fatall Warriour to the Douglasses ) having conveened an Army , and come to the Merse , began to spoile and burn the Countrey . But the Earle of Angus set upon the Forragers and drave them to the hoast . The Earles moved with this indignitie ( though many that were gone out to forrage were not yet come in ) advanced and presented him battell , which he also accepted . After a sharp conflict on both sides with a greater courage and spite than strength , the victorie , which a long time was doubtfull which way to incline , at last fell to the Earle of Angus , not without some losse . The number of the slain was equall , but the English were put to flight , and many of them made prisoners . A chief cause of this defeat was the suddennesse of the enemie in giving battell , and his not staying for the rest that were abroad , and had been sent out to forrage the Countrey . For they being laden with bootie , when they heard the noise of the fight , were so farre from coming to succour their fellows , that for fear of loosing what they had gotten , they took their way directly home into England . This victorie did not a little recreate the King , being wearied both with civill and forraine Warre . For this service , which was exceeding pleasing and acceptable , the King gives him a new Charter of the Lordship of Douglas , upon a resignation , which he had gotten before when the Earle Douglas was forfeited . What other Lands he got we have no speciall mention . So the Earle Douglas being now forfeited , his brother slain , himself banished , and with small either effect , or effort , entertaining hostility by small incursions , rather than doing any thing for the advancing of his main businesse , the face of the world was quite changed . The Earle of Angus was now made Lord of Douglas ; and howbeit he came somewhat short of that huge greatnesse and puissance of the former , yet was he nothing inferiour in place of authority , in credit and account , in action and employment , as we said in the beginning . Nothing was done but by him , and under his shadow . Bishop Kennedie had the greatest vogue ; he upheld the Bishop by his power , and by him men did come to finde favour , and did seek to have credit . We will set down two examples for all the rest , but those remarkeable , and sufficient to show of what great account and authority he hath been . The one is of our own Nation , the other of a Forrainer . The first is in the same year 1457. the 13. of May. We heard of James Lord Hamilton a faithfull , franke , and forward friend for the Earle Douglas , so long as he was a friend to himself by any action . He leaving himself , Hamilton also lest him : I mean , seeing the Earle had lost that so fair occasion ( if not to cast the Dice for the Crown , as the Lord Hamilton said to him ) yet to cast the Dice for the victory , and to give or take conditions of peace , which he had at Abercorne , being moe in number than the King ; the Lord Hamilton was come in to the King upon this , that same night . He was received by the King , but not greatly credited , for he was committed to Rosselin ( a Castle then of the Earle of Orkneyes ) and afterwards ( say our writers ) freinds interceding for him , he was released out of prison , and received into most inward friendship . Thus farre they go , but what friends these were , or how the friendship was made they do not tell . The Earle of Angus evidents tell us ; and show that it hath been he that did him this friendly office . For whether before to move him to intercede for him , or after in token of thankfulnesse ( though it be most likely it was after , because it is done at Tantallon , which must be after his releasement out of Rosselin ) he giveth to this Earle George a memorable remembrance . He , I say , being a noble man , and a notable active man besides , gives him his bond of service ( or Manreid ) and that in ample forme , and submisse terms , excepting none but the King and Queen . And that I may not seeme to speak without a warrant in so great a matter , scarce to be beleeved of some , and that I do rather amplifie things than set down the naked truth , I will set down the very words of the band , as it is extant in the hands of the Earle of Angus , which now is copied word by word , that every man may judge of it , as he thinks good . Be it knowne to all men by thir present Letters , me James Lord Hamilton , &c. to be comen , and by these presents to become Man of speciall service and retinue , for all the dayes of my life-time , to an high and mighty Lord George Earle of Angus , Lord Douglas , and Warden of the East and middle marches of Scotland , foregainst England . Before , and against all them that live , or die may ; mine allegeance to our soveraigne Lord the King , and my band of service to our soveraigne Lady the Queen Mary now present , allanerly out-tane . Promising all and sundry dutifull points in bands of retinue contained , to observe and keep to my Lord foresaid , as e●…eirs , for all the said time . In witnesse of the which thing I have gard set my seale . At Tantallon the 13. day of the moneth of May , the year of our Lord 1457 , &c. It hath been no small matter , nor small authoritie of him to whom it is given , that hath moved such a man to give such a Band. His credit hath been great , and Hamilton hath either received great benefit at his hand , or expected to receive some . I take it , that he hath procured his libertie , and obtained to him that favour in Court that our Writers speak of , to be of the Kings inward friends . I suppose also that kinred hath been of some moment to move him to it . The reason of my conjecture is , because we have heard before , that Elizabeth , sister to Margaret ( Countesse of Marre and Angus , and Grandmother to this Earle George ) was married to Sir Alexander Hamilton of Cadyow ( as some call him ) by which mean this James Lord Hamilton might be third from her , and the Earle of Angus and he Cousins twice removed , or fourths in kin , as we speak . But this I referre to them that have the monuments of that House . However , what more honour could have been done to the great House of Douglas in the greatest grandour thereof , than what is here done to the House of Angus ? Neither is it any dishonour to him that doth it . It is but folly to think so : Houses have their beginning and grouth : Mine to day , thine to morrow . This same Lord Hamilton by these beginnings , within a few years ( 17. or 18. at most ) shall lay such grounds of greatnesse , as shall lift his House above any subjects , to the very top of all , so as to have the Crown entailed to his Posteritie , and to enjoy it for a while as Regent and Governour . Let us remember the changes of the world , and the vicissitudes of Fortune , and let every man bear with patience , and hear with calmnesse , either what he is now , or what he was before . And this for the first domestick witnesse of honour and authoritie , credit and greatnesse of the House of Angus in this mans person . The other amongst Forrainers was greater ; which is this : The King of England , Henry the sixth , being overthrowne , and put out of his Kingdome and Countrey of England by the Duke of York , Edward the fourth ; he , and his son , and his Queen being come into Scotland for refuge , he indents with George Earle of Angus for his assistance , to help to restore him to his Kingdome , and bindes himself to give unto George Earle of Angus , and his heires , Lands lying betwixt Trent and Humber , worth 2000. Marks sterling of yearly rent . 2. That he should erect it in a Dutchie , and infe●…t the said Earle therein , in as free Knight-service as any Land in England ; and that the Earle , and his heires , should be Dukes thereof . 3. That in time of peace between Scotland and England , it should be lawfull for the said Earle , to repaire to England to his Dutchie , or to Court , or where he pleased , with an hundred horse in train . 4. And that if there happened to be warre betwixt the Countreyes , it should be lawfull for him to send 24 armed men , who should be under the King of England his protection , to gather and up-lift for his use , the rents and revenues of the said Dutchie . 5. That it should be lawfull for him , during the warres between the two Countreyes , to serve the King of Scotland ; which should no wayes prejudice him in the enjoying of his Lands ; neither should it be a cause of forfeiture or unlaw . 6. That he should not be bound to answer in person to the Parliaments of England , or any other Court of Justice ; and that neither he , nor his Tenants , should be fined for his non-compearance . 7. That this Indenture should be showne to the Pope , and ratified by him . And so it was ; sealed and subscribed with a ( Henry ) as long as the whole sheet of Parchment , the worst shapen letters , and the worst put together that I ever saw . And ( as I beleeve ) it hath a particular Letter of confirmation of the Pope in the hands of the Earle of Angus . It is thought that when William Earle of Douglas went secretly into England , that his errand was to this , or some such purpose , to have made a proffer of his service to King Henry , on these or the like conditions . For even then the seeds of civill discord were sowne , and began to bud sorth . But either because things were not as yet come to any ripenesse , or for that the Earle of Douglas was fallen into disgrace with his Prince , nothing was done . Now about the year 1460. ( in the minoritie of King James the third ) King Henry came into Scotland , and did thus transact with the Earle of Angus ; A rare thing , and whereof the like example is hard to be found in any subject , except it be the Earle of Douglas , concerning the Dutchie of Turaine with the King of France , which is not unlike in many things . Howsoever , this shews how little inferiour the house of Angus hath been to the house of Douglas in credit and authority at home and abroad . This Indenture took no effect , it being now too late , and King Henries estate brought to so low an ebbe , that both his friends and his fortune having forsaken , and turned their backs upon him , his aide could not suffice against the whole power of England to make head against King Edward , and to stoppe the current of his victories . Notwithstanding Angus gave him a taste of what he could have done for him , and shewed him in a notable exploite , how available his service would have been , if his case had not been desparate , and past recovery . Which though it were not rewarded with a Dutchie , yet doth it not want , nor ever shall want the due reward of high praise and honour as one of the hardiest , and greatest interprises , that hath been atcheived by any subject . The Queen ( King Henries wife ) had obtained of her friends in France a few souldiers , 300. of which were in the Castle of Anwick with Monsieur Brissac their commander . King Edward following his victories ; and that he might prevent or suppresse any commotion that might arise in the North parts , or out of Scotland was come to Durhame with a great Army . He himself remaining in the Town , sent abroad his Commanders to take in all such Castles as stood good for King Henry . Amongst others he sent the Earle of Warwick to besiege Anwick with 20000. men . He had another Army lying about Bambrough not far off from this , and a third besieging another Town . King Henry ( and more especially his Queen ) being very solicitous , for the French men dealt with the Earle of Angus very instantly to have them relieved . He promised to do his best , and performed no lesse than he promised . He assembled to the number of 10000. horse , amongst whom there were 500. empty horses or moe ( for commonly the best appointed have ever two horses for service ) upon which he might mount the French-men , and bring them away . So he marches toward Anwick , and when he came within a little space of the Castle , he ranged his men in order of battell in the sight of the English Army , making show as if he would have invaded them , or at least that he meant to bide them battell if they should offer to set upon him , or hinder him in his purposed businesse . In the meane time he sent those 500. spare horse conducted by some choice troups to a posterne of the Castle to receive the French , and so brought them away . Some of the the English esteeming it a great affront , to suffer them to be carried away in such sort from under their noses , advised the Earle of Warwick to stay them . But he was resolute in the contrary , and told them , that he had no commission to fight . And ( sayes he ) who knowes what more aide these may have near hand in the parke , or some other place . And suppose they have not , these are certainly all choice men able enough to sustaine our charge . They cannot take the Castle with them into Scotland ; let them take the men , I shall get the Castle , which is all that my commission bears . And so he lets them go , who returned into Scotland with the French men , an acceptable present chiefly to the Queen of England . This was a fair assay and preamble of his ensuing services , which being prevented by King Henries destinie , and his death , were smothered in the cradle , and his Dutchie engrossed in parchment to have lien betwixt Trent and Humber , is confined to a narrower precinct within the compasse of a Coffer . Notwithstanding of this greatnesse and power , to make him yet stronger , and more puissant on the borders , he did excambe his Lands in the Maines and Clarberon with Robert Grahame of old Monrosse , and got for them the Lands of Eskedale upon the border . He contracted his sonne Archbald , and his heir apparant to Catherine daughter to Alexander Earle of Huntly , or to any other of his daughters which the said George should choose . The portion 2000. markes , the termes of payment 10. years , 100. markes every terme . That if Archbald should die , his brother ( whom the Indenture doth not name ) should marrie one of the said Earle of Huntlies daughters . That the Earle of Angus should give his sonne 100. mark Land in Angus . That Archbald after he be seven years old shall be given to the Earle of Huntly , and the Earle of Huntlies daughter to the Earle of Angus . The Indenture is dated at Saint Andrews 1461. the last of September . This marriage took no effect , what ever were the cause thereof . Either before or after this there fell out a dissention amongst the Estates about the choosing of a governour and protectour for the young King James the third . In which he and his brother Bishop Kennedie with the greatest part of the Nobilitie , opposed themselves to the Queen , who pretended to be Tutrix , and had now usurped that place a year , while as the Nobilitie being busied in the Warres , had no leasure to look into these things . The Queene and such as followed her remained in the Castle , and the other party in the Abbey of Halyroodhouse . A Convention being appointed , the Queene and her faction came to the Parliament house , and declared her Tutrix , So soon as this was known , the Earle of Angus , and James Kennedie came up to the market place , where the said Bishop declares that their intention was nothing else but to maintain their old law , and the ancient practice of the Countrey , which was that in such cases the Nobilitie should choose one whom they thought most fit to undergo that charge of governing , which was for the good both of the King and Countrey , whereas they of the other party intended nothing but their own particular advantage , as he should show more evidently , in time and place convenient . After this speech , as they retired to their lodging , they were advertised that those who were in the Castle with the Queen , were coming down in armes to assault them , or to have hindered them from making this declaration . The Earle of Angus thinking it a great indignitie , that they being more in number , and better in qualitie , should give place to the weaker , and the meaner and inferiour partie , and that in such sort as might seeme to be a direct flight , could scarce be retained , but that he would needs turne upon them and fight , though he were not armed , as they were . But the matter was composed by the mediation of the Bishops of Glasgow , Galloway , and Dumblane , and assurance given for a moneth . After the expiring whereof , having entred into a new consultation , with more peaceable and calme mindes , both parties agreed , that the King and Countrey should be governed by foure Noblemen , two of which should be chosen out of the Queenes partie , and two out of the other . For the Queen she chose William Lord Grahame , and Robert Lord Boyd , then Chancellour ; for the oother side they chose Robert Earle of Orkney , and John Lord Kennedie , all chief of their Name and Families . Here is no mention of the Earle of Angus , which makes me think he hath died in this mean time , during the Truce , otherwise being principall of this other side , they would not have neglected him . Sure he died much about this time , which seemes to have been in the year 1462. Neither did his brother Bishop Kennedies businesse go so well after this . He was buried in Abernethie amongst his Predecessours . His wife ( after his death ) is said to have married a younger brother of the Captain of Crawford , and that she got from her sonne Archbald the Lands of Balmoodie in Fife , and that the house of Balmoodie is descended of her . Which notwithstanding , we finde her binde her self for relief of her sonne for the payment of her daughters portion , 1479. as a free person making no mention of a husband . It is true he might also have been dead ; then the space being 17. or 18. years . But if her sonne were so liberall as to give her such Lands , he would never have troubled her to binde her self for his relief in the payment of his sisters portion in likelihood . Of the first Archbald , sixth Earle of Angus , called commonly , Bell the Cat. TO George succeeded Archbald his sonne and heir , a boy about 5. or 6. years of age at the most . For in the year 1461. the last of September , he is not 7. as appears by the Indenture made betwixt his father and the Earle of Huntly concerning his marriage . It took no effect : but in place thereof he marries Elizabeth Boyde , daughter to Robert Lord Boyde , then one of the Governours of Scotland , viz. in the year 1468. the fourth of May. Which makes it seem that the match hath not failed on the Earle of Huntlies part , but on his , or at least theirs to whose tuition he hath been committed . They , or hee preferring credit at Court before their keeping and fulfilling of the Contract made by his father . But it was little to their advantage , for the next year after that the Court was changed , the Boydes were discarded ; his brother in law Thomas Boyde ( sonne to Robert ) banished , and his wife ( the Kings sister ) taken from him , and his brother Alexander Boyde execute . As for their father Lord Robert himself , he fled into England . And this is all the fruits he reaps by his marrying for Court. He was by this our calculation 14. years of age at the most ; and yet his Lady gets seasing of Abernethie upon his resignation the same year the 1. of May. It is not unlikely that one William Douglas of Clunie hath had some hand in the guiding of his minoritie , for we finde that the wardship of the Lands of Tantallon , and Earledome of Douglas was given to him ; and he having again resigned it into the Kings hands , the King makes a new disposition thereof to Archbald , non obstante non aetate ejusdem , notwithstanding his nonage , which was then 16. years 1470. the 26. of June . Six years after , he hath care of his sisters Contracts by himself with Fintrie for one of them ; and three years after that he takes upon him the burden for his mother , and hath her bound for his relief 1479. as hath been said in his fathers life , being then about 25. years of age . This dutifulnesse towards his sisters , deserves that he should be blessed with children of his own , and that he should have good successe in his affairs who begins so well . And so it was with him : for he had by his wife foure sonnes , and three daughters , all honourably provided . His sonnes were , first George called commonly Master of Angus , because he came never to be Earle , being slain at Flowdon before his father died . The second , Sir William of Glenbarvie , who married Elizabeth Authenleck , heir of Glenbarvie . Third Gawin , who was Bishop of Duncale , a man of singular wisedome and prudencie , and well lettered according to the times . This Gawin had a base daughter , of whom the house of Foulewood ( Semple ) is descended . We shall have occasion to speak something of him in the life of Archbald his brothers son , in whose time he lived . The Duke of Albanie being Governour , having conceived some jealousie against the Earle of Angus , and the Douglasses , whereupon Angus was sent to France , and his uncle this Bishop was sent for to Rome by letters from the Pope , at the Governours procuring , to answer to such accusations as were given in against him . As he was going thither , he was seased of the plague at London in the year 1522. and died there ; leaving behinde him great approbation of his vertues , and love of his person , in the hearts of all good men . For besides the nobilitie of his birth , the dignitie and comelinesse of his personage , he was learned , temperate , and of singular moderation of minde ; and in these so turbulent times , had alwayes carried himself amongst all the Factions of the Nobilitie equally , and with a minde to make peace , and not to stir up parties ; which qualities were very rare in a Clergie-man of those dayes . He wrote in his native tongue diverse things . But his chiefest work is the translation of Virgil , yet extant in verse , in which he ties himself so strictly as is possible , and yet it is so well expressed , that whosoever shall assay to do the like , will finde it a hard piece of work to go through with . In his Prologues before every Book , where he hath his libertie , he sheweth a naturall , and ample vein of poesie , so pure , pleasant , and judicious , that I beleeve there is none that hath written before , or since , but cometh short of him . And in my opinion , there is not such a piece to be found , as is his Prologue to the 8. Book , beginning ( of Dreams and of Drivelings &c. ) at least in our language . The fourth son was Archbald Douglas of Kilspindie , who married a daughter of one Little in Edinburgh . He had by her Archbald of Kilspindie , who was Provest of Edinburgh in King James the fifth his minoritie , and was married to the Earle of Crawford his daughter , by whom he had first Patrick , secondly Alexander , and thirdly James . Patrick was married to one Murray , a daughter of the house of Balbaird , by whom he had William . After that he married Agnes , daughter to the Lord Gray , and had by her two sons , and two daughters . And thus much of his sons . His daughters were first Marjorie , married to Cudbert Lord of Kilmaers in the year 1491. Her portion was 1700. Marks . Secondly , Elizabeth , married to Robert Lile Lord Chief Justice . Her portion was 1000. Marks , whereof 100. pounds was to be payed at the first Terme , and then 50. pounds termely till all were payed . It is with dispensation , which is a signe that they have been in kin before the year 1493. Thirdly , Jennet , whom we finde contracted to Robert Lord Harris , in the year 1495. Novemb. 22. to be married , and that he shal divorce from the wife he had , so soon as can be . That she in the mean time shall not marry elsewhere . For which cause she is infeft in his Lands of Tarrigla , with the Kings confirmation past thereupon , the same year and day . Her portion is , that the said Earle then Chancellour , shall procure his Lands to be new holden of the King. This fact , for a man to contract to part with the wife he hath , and marry another , as it is harsh to conceive , so being done so solemnely by such persons , we must suppose it had sufficient and honest grounds . For certainly the Earle of Angus , being withall Chancellour for the time , needed not to hunt after unlawfull or unseemly marriages for his daughters . Some reckon a fourth daughter , whom they name not , but say she was eldest , and married to the Earle of Montrose , this Earles great Grandfathers father : but because I have not seen any monument of her , I reserved her to the last place . He had also sundry bastard sonnes after his wifes death . First William of the Parkhead , of whom the house of the Parkhead is come , and the Lord of Torthorrell by his mother . Secondly James of Tod-holes : And thirdly one that ( they say ) was gotten in Glenbarvie , born after his decease . But this seemes to be false , because they affirm commonly , that after the field of Flowdon ( where his sonne George was slain ) he went into Galloway to Saint Maines , and lived the space of a year an austere life . Then he was not thus incontinent , if that be true , neither came he to Glenbarvie , seeing he lived in Galloway . He had also a base daughter . And thus much of his children . To come to himself : we have heard how his father Earle George raised the house of Angus to such greatnesse of credit and authoritie , that it was become not much inferiour to the house of Douglas , to which it had succeeded . Archbald his son did no way diminish it . But when he came to be of years fit for managing affairs , he so behaved himself , and gained so good opinion of his wisedome and courage , that the whole burden of the estate of the Countrey did lye upon him alone . And for that cause chiefly he is commonly designed by the epithete of The great Earle of Angus . For as touching his Lands and Rents , we finde no great augmentation of them , save that he provided his children well . If we consider the means , it hath been his own worth and sufficiencie that hath brought him to it : for he began indeed his marriage with Court , as a fit mean whereby to rise ; but that lasted but short while , as we have heard . The Court changing , it was rather a mean to have wrought him discredit . Notwithstanding of which , and though he was young himself , we finde nothing , but that his businesse went right . He got his own wardship , even when his alliance were at the hardest pinch , that same very year that Thomas Boyd had his wife taken from him , and married to another . His successe in the marriage of his sisters doth also show the same . Neither hear wee of any hard effect that their dis-courting did produce toward him . It was he that was the chief actor in taking order with Robert Cochran , and the other Courtiers , that did abuse the King and Countrey . He propounds the matter to the Nobilitie , he opens up the estate of things , he puts hand to work , and executes what was concluded . The rest consent , and follow , he goeth before in every thing . And even then when he did all this , he was of no great age , not above five and twentie ; and yet his credit , power , and authoritie , was able to go through with it . The History is written at length in our Chronicle , we need do no more but transume it . Neither is it necessary that we do that to the full , it will suffice to set down onely what is requisite for laying open the occasion and circumstances for clearing of the fact , that the Reader may the better discerne the right from the wrong , which otherwise lye confused . Thus it was . King James the third of that name , a man of a great and high spirit , and of a hastie nature , and prone to anger , and such a one as would not suffer patiently his own judgement to be contradicted , could not away with that freedome of speech , which he found in his Nobilitie : wherefore hee made choice of such to be about him , as would not correct , but approve all his sayings , and who would not offend him by gainsaying , but did curie-favour by soothing of him , and who with flattering admiration did extoll all that he said , or did . Wherefore excluding the Nobilitie , he was wholly at the devotion of a few of his servants with whom he advised , and consulted of all busines , and either followed their opinions , or made them to consent , and execute his will. Thus he began to do about the year 1474. having after his marriage ( in the year 1470. ) addicted himself most part to his domesticke , and private pleasures , seldome coming abroad , or giving time to the affaires of his Kingdome . He had gotten about him base men both in place and worth , whom he had advanced to honours , and nobilitated . Amongst these there was one Robert Coghran a Mason by his trade , whom he made Earle of Marre , An English singing man called William Rogers , whom he honoured with Knight-hood , with diverse others of meane rank and qualitie , whose chief commendation was that they were impudently wicked , and villanous . This Rogers is thought also to have been his Pander , and an enticer of him to lewdnesse and wronging his Queen . Amongst these base men , there was one Gentleman of good birth , but he seeing the Kings inclination , had set himself fully to follow it in all things ; wherefore he had given his daughter to Robert Coghran in marriage as a bond of friendship and societie , his name was Thomas Preston . There was also a young page John Ramsay , who was of the same combination . These were the Kings Minions , Counsellours , and whole confidence . On these he reposed , and cast the burden of affaires . Their hopes were built upon the ruine of the Nobilitie , that by their fall they themselves might rise . These were Counsellours and Executioners of the murder of his younger brother John ; and had caused him to commit his other brother Alexander to prison in the Castle , who had died likewise , if he had not found means to escape in the night , by making a rope of his bed-clothes , and so got over the wall . To these great evils there were joyned worse things . He had given himself to seek responses , and predictions of things to come , chiefly concerning his own estate , of Magiciens , and Witches . He had for that purpose brought one out of Flanders that was thought very skilfull in divining , named Andrew a Physician by profession , and Astrologer . This man had given the Kings Ambassadours some proof of his cunning when they went through Flanders to the Duke of Burgundie . He hearing whether they were going , told them they needed not to make any great haste , for they should hear news of the Duke ere it were long . And so they did indeed , for within three dayes they heard that he was slain . When they came home they related this to the King , extoll his skill , and inslame his minde ; which was too prone of it self , with desire to hear him . So he was sent for , and being come , was presented with many rich gifts . And good reason he should , if he could withall have instructed the King how to avoide the evils that were to come . But meerly to foretell evill which could not be shunned , it was too dear bought evil tidings . Yet that is all he doth , tels him that his own should be his ruine . The King interprets it of his brethren , his kins-men , and his subjects , especially the chief of the Nobilitie . Whereupon being suspicious and jealous of all others , he trusted none but his foresaid Minions . By these doings he makes way for the fates , by slaying or warding his brother , he irritates the Nobilitie , he suspecting them , and being suspected of them by a mutuall fear . They to secure themselves ; put hand into the Courteours who were the authours of these evils ; he interprets that to be Rebellion against himself , and seeks how to be revenged . They for their safety are driven from point to point , constrained by necessitie for the preservation of their lives , cast off all respect , and take Arms openly , drawes his sonne to the party ( his own nearest according to his responses ) whereon ensues his ruine . This is the effect of seeking to Magiciens and sooth-sayers , whereof we seldome hear a better end . And it is but deservedly , that those that leave the authour and fountaine of all good , who guides all by his providence , to follow follies and superstition , and the authour of all evil and wickednesse should be thus served . This is the effect of pride and arrogancie , that leans onely to its own judgement , and will not give way and libertie to admonish and informe rightly . Upon which , other inconvenients do follow by degrees : First with-drawing the ear from faithfull Counsellours , then giving themselves to flatterers , then entertaining of these , and rejecting and casting off others , whereof ariseth suspicions , jealousies , wrongs , injustice , from hence shedding of bloud under colour of law , or without colour in open Tyranny , as no man at first becomes extreamly wicked . At last followes the ruine of the authours , together with the ruine of others . To return to our point , it came so about here . The warre began betwixt Scotland and England ; An Army behooved to be raised , and for the raising thereof the Nobilitie must be conveened . Loath were those new men to the work , they knew not what they might think when they were conveened . But there was no remedie , their privie counselling could not sustaine the warres . That was the part of the Noblemen , and could not be done without them . So they are conveened ; the Army raised marches toward the borders , on to Lawder they go . It is a Town in the confines of Merse and Tivedale , which countries were both wasted by the incursions of the enemy . Nothing will make men wise where there is ruine determined . The place , the time , the enemy , the necessitie to use the Nobilitie , could not serve to admonish the King and his Courteours to give them some small countenance and contentment . Whom they were constrained to employ , they would not endeavour to please . On they go with their wonted course . The King only countenances , consults , advises with his Cabin-councell . Neglects the Nobilitie and distrusts them . It had been strange if they had not recented it ; and as strange if they had not remedied it . Now was the time or never . The force , power and all was in their own hands . They disdain it , they regrate it in private one to another . They agree on the generall , that some order must be taken with these disorders . They appoint a meeting for advising of the forme and particular manner how and what to do . The place , Lawder Kirk ; the time , next morning betimes . Thither they come at the time prefixt . Here the Earle of Angus , first in place and rank , first in credit , first in authority and their account , is also first in speech , and is said first thus to have opened up the matter unto them . My honourable Lords , I hold it not needfull to go about with many words to set before you the Estate of this Kingdome . For some things you your selves remember , some you see before your eyes . Our chief Noblemen are thrust into exile , and forced either to suffer intolerably , or do unjustly . And you who are the Arms and Limbs of this Kingdome are left without a head , as a Ship without a Pilot and Master , exposed to the storms and tempests of fortune . Our fields are burnt , our goods carried away , the labourers killed , or seeing no other remedie of their manifold miseries , have yeelded themselves to the enemy . His Majestie in the mean time a man indeed ( if he were himself ) of a generous minde and rare understanding , bewitched in his affection , asketh no advice or counsell of his Nobilitie , but consulteth of peace and warre , of the good of the Countrey , and safety of us all with a few base , vile , and ignorant fellows , who by relating the predictions of Sorcerers and Magicians , fill his sick minde with vaine fear and superstition . And these men determine and set down decrees of our lives and estates , who knowing that they merit the hatred of all men , do therefore hate all men . Neither do they seek onely to lessen your authority , but to strike off your heads by one plot or other . Some of you they have already made away by death , others by banishment . Neither do they , as commonly new risers do , climbe up to the highest places by degrees , but they make the carcasses of the Kings sonnes steps for them to mount upon , and water their growing honours with the Bloud Royall it self . One of his brothers they have most cruelly murdered , the other they have constrained for fear to forsake his Countrey , and become a Captain in the enemies Camp. And now being rid of them , they lye in wait for the rest . For being conscious of their own basenesse , they cannot endure any that is excellent or eminent . Whoso hath riches to satisfie their avarice , or power to assist their bold attempts , him they reckon for their enemy . And do we prepare our selves to withstand the common enemy ? And encampe against England ? As if any were more deadly and more to be feared then he whose greedinesse our goods cannot suffice , and whose thirst of slaughter our bloud is not able to quench . Now that you may know how much this inward plague is worse than that outward foe , put the case that England ( which God forbid ) should overcome , what could we look for at their hands ? what would they make the end of their hatred , or reward of their victory ? The death of the King do you think , or of your selves ? verily , I beleeve neither . Our contentions have not been for lives , but for honour and empire . And a noble heart , as it is vehement and violent against those that oppose , so is it easily mitigated by prayer and entreaty ; and even with the consideration of the instabilitie of humane affairs it is moved to pity and compassion . But let us suppose the worst , that they being mindefull of our old debates , and puffed up with present victory would take the Kings life , which of these two doth deal more easily with us ? He that by depriving us of life , doth also take away all sense of evil ; or he that reserveth that to daily tortures and torments , which next after our God , should be most dear to us ? who besotting the minde with Witch-craft , do animate the King to the destruction of his nearest kindred , who detaine him like a captive , and will not suffer him at any time to show his face to his loyall Subjects ? that they may enjoy the comfort of his countenance , and he behold their service for his honour and safety . They are not so much to be reputed enemies , who with displayed banner professe hostility , as they who within the wals lye in Ambush for your overthrowe . who drawing away his Majesties affection from his friends betray him to his enemies , and making you destitute of a leader , would expose you to the mercie of your enemies . Into whose hands if you do fall , though perhaps you escape death , yet shall you not eschew shame and ignominie , and which is worse than a thousand deaths , servitude , and bondage . If you get the day and be victorious , you shall not for all that , acquire that which is the end and fruit of victory , honour and renown to your King , rest and quietnesse to your selves , and to your posteritie , a flourishing and prosperous estate of your Countrey , but on the contrary a greater liberty to your adversaries for the present , and greater security for the time to come , ruine and destruction to your selves ; and to your King a worse slavery , So that by vanquishing you shall not be so much freed from troubles abroad , as you shall increase your miseries at home . Wherefore my opinion is , to speak it in a word , that first we shake off this yoke of servitude at home , before we enter into fight with the forraine enemie . Otherwise all of us shall be slaves to the will and pleasure of a few , we shall strengthen our enemies , and become Traitours to the common-wealth . What you shall resolve to do , I pray God to prosper . When the Earle had ended his speech , there arose a confused murmure throughout the whole Assembly , for they had not the patience to give their votes in order , but all cryed out together , testifying their approbation and assent to his speech and opinion . Amongst others there present , the Lord Gray was one , whom some would have to be he that slew the Earle of Douglas at Stirlin , commonly called Cowe-Gray . But if it were he , he behoved to be of great age now , and of greater at the battell of Bannock-burne , where he is also said to have been : wherefore I take it rather that this hath been his son . However , the Lord Gray heard all , and seeing their forwardnesse , craved audience , and told them the Apologue of the Mice , who consulting in a publick meeting , how to be sure from the Cats surprising of them , found out a very good way , which was to hang a bell about her neck , that would ring as she stepped , and so give them warning of her approach , that they might save themselves by flight . But when it came to be questioned who would undertake to tie the bell about the Cats neck , there was never a mouse durst cheep or undertake it . The Earle of Angus understood his meaning , and what application was to be made of it , wherefore he answered shortly , I will Bell the Cat , and what your Lordships conclude to be done , shall not lack execution . For this answer , he was alwayes after this named Archbald Bell the Cat. And so they concluded , that these wicked Counsellours , and their Complices the Courtiers of the same qualitie , and stamp , should be brought to judgement , and punished according to their deserts . In the execution whereof their main care was that no inconvenient should come to the King , which because it might fall out in a tumult , they ordained that the Army should lye quiet , and onely the Noblemen with their houshold servants should go to Court , and apprehend them as peaceably and calmly as possible they could . After the meeting was broken up , as they were going along , they encountred by the way with Robert Cochran , whom the King ( informed of their meeting ) had sent to know what the matter was : For it seemed to be some businesse of moment , and great importance that had moved such men to conveen at such an houre , so early in the morning . He had about his neck a gold chain of great weight , which the Earle of Angus took hold of , and straining it a little , This chain , said he , doth not become a man of your rank , but I shall ere long , give you one that will become you to weare farre better , and so pulling the chain from his neck , he delivered him to one of his men to be kept sure . After that he went on to the Kings lodging , where the Guard and others that were present astonished with the suddennesse of his coming , or reverencing the dignitie and majestie of his person gave place , and shrank away , so that the rest were easily apprehended without resistance or tumult . Onely John Ramsay fled to the King , and clasped his arms about his middle , and at the Kings request was pardoned in respect of his youth which excused his errours , and seemed to promise for him , that he would do no more so . The rest were led forth , and accused . 1. Of causing kill the Kings brother John. 2. Of inciting the King , and animating him against his other brother Alexander Duke of Albaine , so as to banish him : 3. Of sowing dissention betwixt the King and his Nobles . 4. Of drawing him to superstition , witch-craft , and magick to the offence of God , and slander of Religion . 5. Of perswading him to coyne a certain kinde of brasse , coyne of no value , which the people called the black coyne , which fact of all other was most odious to the vulgar . For hereupon had ensued great dearth of corns and victuall , while as the owners did choose rather to suffer their graine to rot in their Garners , then under the name of selling to give them to the buyers , for so they thought it to be a gift , and not a sale . Their accusations were no sooner read , but all cryed out against them ; and so they were condemned to be hanged over the bridge of Lawder . That sentence pronounced , was so acceptable to all that heard it , that they ran and brought their horse halters , and bridle reines to serve for ropes , and strive who should have the honour therein , the whole Army , and Nobilitie concurring and assisting at their execution . And thus they did remove those men , whom the good of the King , of the Nobilitie , and whole Countrey required necessarily to be removed from their Prince . Yet it was done with as great respect to himself , as it could be in such a case , where matters were to proceed contrary to his minde . They offer his person no violence , they do not mis-behave themselves in words : they are carefull it be not done by any in a tumult , and therefore come accompanied with the fewer number . They grant his desire when he did interceed for one of the guiltie , which shewes how willing they would have been to have granted the test also , if it could have been done safely . A very remarkable and rare example of carefulnesse of the Common-wealth , joyned with all modestie , love , and dutifulnesse towards their King. Their behaviour was just such as Lawyers prescribe in such cases , who accounting the person of the Prince sacred , and not to be touched any way , do allow that their wicked counsellours and abusers only be taken order with , where the good of the Countrey enforceth it . Wherein the Earle of Angus being the principall actour , the chief commendation thereof can not be taken from him ; the praise , I say , not onely of wisedome in propounding , and perswading , of courage and resolution in under-taking , but also of discreet moderation , and dutifull regard to the King , in performing of this action without tumult , or uprore . Happie had the King been , if he could have taken it up rightly , and as he saw how far his wicked abusers were hated , he had also read their love and regard of his person , that appeared in every act of this Tragick Comedie , written in fair and Capitall Letters . He made show , as if he had taken all in good part , but it was not in sinceritie . He accounted it high treason and rebellion , and set his minde wholly on revenge . He saw what was done to his Courtiers , but he would not see the respect carried to himself ; for upon this occasion the Army dissolving , so soon as he came to Edinburgh , and found himself at libertie , he retired to the Castle with a few of his familiar friends , as not daring to trust his Nobilitie . Which when they perceived , they had their private meetings and consultations apart . Hereupon his brother Alexander moves the King of England to send an Army with the Earle of Glocester , hoping to do somewhat for himself . And so he doth ; for the Nobilitie sent for him , and made him chief man of the party , under the name of Generall Lieutenant of Scotland . The King remained in the Castle , from whence he is brought out , and restored to his own place , his brother endeavouring by modestie to approve his uprightnesse , and banish all jealousies by his actions . But all would not do ; he continues his jealousie , and the effects of jealousie , an evill minde , and ill-will . Intends to make him away , some say by poison ; whereof he being advertised , with-drawes himself again into England ; and that he might be the more welcome thither , he put the Castle of Dumbar into their hands . Neither doth he bear any better minde toward the Nobilitie ; but still intends their ruines , making up a heap of crimes , calling all their proceedings and actions rebellious . And after a short while , the Courtiers began to follow the foot-steps of those that had gone before them , and nothing terrified with the example of their end , began to trade the same path that they had done . John Ramsay ( who was pardoned at Lawder ) procured an edict from the King , that none but he and his followers should go armed in those places where the Kings Court did converse . The King thought it was hard for him to deale with them all at once , therefore they must be divided . For this effect he insinuates himself , and becomes very familiar with a part of them , and advanceth them to honours . He makes the Earle of Crawford , Duke of Monrosse , a great and powerfull man. But who was so sit for his service as the Earle of Angus ? he makes as if he were fully reconciled to him , hath him continually about him , countenanceth him every way , communicates with him his most secret affairs , some say he made him Chancellour ; but the Chancellour ( Andrew Stuart Lord of Evendale ) was even now living , at the coming in of Alexander Duke of Albanie ; neither hear we of his death , neither do we finde in old Evidents , that the Earle of Angus is entituled Chancellour , before 1493. which is after this Kings death , in King James the fourth his time , though we have Evidents of the year 1488. and 89. To him the King opens his mind so far , as finding that the principal of the Nobility were in Edinburgh the K. sends for Angus to the Castle , tells him that now he hath a fair occasion to be avenged of his enemies , that he would cause seize and apprehend them : for if the Leaders and Chief of the Faction were once cut off , the rest would not dare to stirre : that if he should neglect this opportunitie , he could hardly look for the like hereafter . Some say , that he purposed to have invited them to a supper in the Castle , and so to have laid hands on them , others say , that he meant to have caused take them in their lodgings in the night , which is not unlikely . The Earle of Angus , though he were no very old Cat ( some 31. or 32. ) if that was 1486. as it should seem , yet was he too warie and circumspect to be drawne by a straw . He knew himself to be as guilty as any of them , and as much hated for his guilt . But he was now within the Castle , and had need to carry himself wisely . To refuse , might endanger his life ; to consent he could not , it was so grosse and foule . Wherefore he frames his answer after such a kinde , as might be both safe for himself , and no waies prejudiciall to the rest . He tells him what a disgrace it would be for him , if without order of law he should ( all of a sudden ) bring so many Noblemen to the scaffold without a crime , to whom he was but lately reconciled , and had promised remission of all that was past , especially at such a time when they trusted to the publick assurance given them for their securitie . Neither will those that remain , said he , be terrified , and dismayed with the death of these few , but be irritated and driven to despair , and so to greater violence . But if it will please your Majestie to follow my advice , I shall tell you a better way to give you satisfaction . Do but charge and summond any of them at any time to under-lye the law , and I with my friends and followers shall bring them in by force openly , and in fair day light , to what place you please , where execution may be done according to law , which is not onely more safe , but more honourable , than either to betray them under colour of friendship , and feasting , or to invade them in the night , as if they were set on bytheeves and robbers . This being spoken with that grace and courage wherewith he used to accompanie his actions , the King acknowledging it was true that he said , and knowing he was able to performe what he promised , supposing he spake in sinceritie , gave him many thanks , and having loaded him with as many promises , dismissed him . Assoon as he was come to his lodging , he revealed all to the Noblemen , and withall went himself out of the Town . From that time forth there was no more peace . The Kings counsell being revealed , he distrusted all men . The Nobilitie seeing his resolution to ruine them , and that there was no trust to be given to his words , despairing of concord ; whereas they had before sought his amendement , and not his over-throw , retaining ever a dutifull love and regard to his Person , now they set themselves , and lay all the plots they can how to undo him . Yet can they not be alienated from the race of their Kings . His son had not offended , and fell to succeed . They affect him for their Captain . He is also most acceptable , and most agreeable to the people , and so fittest for them . Others might be suspected , envied , or mis-interpreted . Wherefore they allure him to their partie by his keepers , and his keepers perswade him by feare of being disinherited , and put besides his succession to the Crown . And now the parties are adressed , the King and his own son . There was divers times mention of peace , but where all trust was taken away , it could not be established . They send the King word flatly , they could not give credit to his promises . And so there was no way to mediate a peace , but by his dimission of the Crown to his son . That condition was intollerable ; he aggravates it to forrain Princes , and to the Pope , shewing what an ill president it was for all Princes . But before any help can come from thence , the Lords make haste to come to a conclusion , which fell out according to their desire . The Kings Forces lay most part beyond Forth , and in the Northerne parts . For conveening of them , Stirlin was the fittest place . Thither he takes his way with the Forces he had : The Nobilitie following as near as they could come to him . Yet was he gone before them , and might first have come to the Castle . But being excluded by the keeper , he is constrained to hazard the battell at Bannock-burn . There , having overthrown the vanguard of the enemy , he was overthrown by the Anandale men , & west-borderers that bare longer spears than they that were on the Kings side . The King himself hurt with the fall of his horse , and wounded in the right arme , fled unto a water-mill that was near unto the place , with intention to have fled to his Ships . But he was perceived , and known by the partisans of his Guard , that stuck to him ( which were trimmed with white fringes or fasses ) and followed by Patrick Lord Gray , and Stirlin ( of Keir ) and a Priest named Borthwick . Which of these , or if all of them fell upon him it is uncertain , but there he was slain by them . Fame layes it most on the Lord Gray , who if it were Cowe-Gray ; it seemes his apprentiship and his practice in his old age have been very sutable . For he it was that slew William Earle of Douglas at Stirlin , under this Kings father 35. or 36. year before this . He hath put a long time between his assay , and his master-piece , and gone too high in it . If it was his son , he hath followed well his fathers example , and gone beyond him also . All this while the Earle of Angus part was honourable and kindly , his heart could not digest the slaughter of his King. He sought his own safety , and to shorten the reins of his unbridled minde , but for his life , he neither sought it , nor could he suffer it to be taken so farre as he could hinder it . Wherefore seeing the victorie to be on their side , he cryed oft to save the King , attesting all for their love to God , and for their respect to the young Prince his sonne , that they should do him no harm . This was cast in his teeth by the way of reproach as childishnesse , or too much tendernesse of heart at such a time , by the Lord Gray . There were slain on the Kings side the Earle of Glencarne ( and a few of his fellows ) the Earle of Angus married his daughter three years after , to Robert Lord Kilmaers son or rather Grand-childe to this Earle of Glencarne . This happened 1488. the 28. of King James Raigne , and 35. of his age . But the Warre did not end with the death of the King. The old Kings faction was rather scattered than broken , chiefly his Navy and Sea Forces , of which the Captain ( Andrew Wood ) stood out obstinatly . In the North the Lord Forbes had gotten the Kings bloudy shirt , & carrying it upon a spears point like an ensinge , through Aberdene and other Towns stirred up all he could to revenge the Kings slaughter . In the Westerne parts of the Kingdome , the Earle of Lennox assembled his power , and divers moe with him did send their messengers to and fro , exhorting the people every where not to suffer so detestable a murder un-revenged ; forbidding them to scarre at the shadow of the present Kings authority , whom these Parricides did detaine a captive to countenance their wickednesse , he being rather a prisoner than a Prince , the whole power resting in the hands of the Douglasses , Humes , and Hepburnes . That even in that regard they would take Arms to free him from their tyrannie , who would make the World beleeve that he being but a childe of 15. years of age were so unnaturall as to allow of his fathers murder . Besides all this the English made some trouble by Sea with five Ships , which lay in the mouth of Forth , and not onely infested the Merchants and such as did trade by Sea , but also many times came a Shore , and pillaged the Countrey . These were prognosticks of a storm arising , and of a tempest as great as had been from the West , from the North , and from the Sea. But these droping Clouds which threatned an after-clap were quickly dispersed by the prudent handling of the other party . Andrew Wood was intreated , and brought not onely to be no enemy , but also to set upon the English Ships , which he did with his own two onely , and brought in the five English to Leith . Lennox was defeated by the Lord Drummond , whose daughter George master of Angus had married : and the Northern men hearing of it sat quiet , and stirred not . And for conclusion a Parliament was held at Edinburgh the 6. of November , where all that was done at Bannock-burne was decerned to be good service , and that those that were slain there , were slain through their own default , and that those that had taken Arms against them were free from all crime . This had been done before in the Parliament when the King was crowned , but there were so few present then , that they thought it necessary to renew it here , where both parties were present . And so it was not onely enacted , but subscribed by all that had vote in Parliament . Thus did Angus with the rest of his associats governe those matters which seemed to be very hard to settle , both wisely and moderately . For they used not their victory and power either cruelly or covetously . They forgave sincerely those that came in and yeelded , and punished gently the more obstinate , fining them in their goods , or taking from them some portion , or parcell of their Lands and Possessions ; but there was no man ruined , or wholly undone by them ; And so they both pacified things , and did not much displease the parties , who bare it patiently when they called to remembrance for what small faults , and upon what slight pretences men were turned out of their whole Estates in the late Kings time . By these meanes they procured a true and sincere peace among the Subjects , strengthened with a generall love and submission of both parties to the King. And to confirme all the two principalls of the other party Lennox and Forbes came in , and were received into favour : Many attribute the commendation of all this to the King himself , whose inclination ( it cannot be denied ) was good ; but to speak the truth , as it is , he was but young , and not a Guider , but guided , even by the confession of the adverse partie . Neither could he of himself have carried things so wisely , for all his good disposition ; neither was he able to have done it , though he had been skilfull , if there had not been great moderation in those that were about him . Wherefore seeing both common report , and our Histories also make our Douglasses , Humes , and Hepburnes , the chief authors and actors in these matters ; I see no reason why we should defraude them of their due commendation of being men that were dutifull to their Countrey , and withall very respective to their King , having laboured all they could to reclaim him , and after he had shut himself up in the Castle , restoring him to his full authority , and even when he was seeking their lives , they did tolerate him a good while , being very loath to come to extremity . And last being forced to it by necessitie for the preservation of their own lives , they had regard to the race of their Princes , yea to himself , and his life in the greatest heat of the battell , ever willing and desirous to save him . And then after the victorie , we see how moderate they were against their detractours , slanderers , and profest enemies that had taken Arms against them , how meek in bearing with them , how carefull too , with calmnesse to reconcile them , how gentle in using of them , how wise and prudent in the whole progresse of pacification . And above all the moderation of their desires is to be remarked ; for they did neither increase their estates , nor enrich themselves on whit , by spoiling or violent seizing of any mans Lands or Goods . The Earle of Angus was made Chancellour . But that was after the death of the Lord Evendale , and so it was not taken from any other man , neither was there any wrong in it . And on whom could it have been so well bestowed ? who was so fit for it ? and who so worthy of it ? Besides , it seemes that he got it not in the Kings minority , when he had all power in his own hand under the shadow of the Kings name , and so might have extorted it from the King in those troublous times , for he is never termed Chancellour untill the year 1493. which was 5. years after Bannock-burne , and then all the troubles were quieted and pacified , and the King came to be 20. years of age , able to guide his affairs by himself . The Lord Hume is also made great Chamberlaine of Scotland , yet that was also in the Kings power to give , and belonged to no man. What other casuality , or benefite they acquired by the Kings liberality , we finde not , unlesse it were the Guardianship of the inheritrix of Glenbarvie , which Angus got , whom he married to his son William . But suppose they did get any such thing , yet was it without injury to any man and un-reproveably . Wherefore we may say justly , that no Princes minority was ever so moderately and innocently , so justly , wisely , and prudently guided amongst so great troubles and grounds of dissention . This made them that they feared no man , having offended no man , but were even secure in the Kings presence , notwithstanding that he had enjoyned himself a pennance , for being accessarie to his fathers death , which was the wearing of a chain of iron about his middle in stead of a girdle , to which he added every year a new link or ring . Not the lesse of all this , they were never afraid of the King nor jealous of him , but interpreted this well , and took it in good part , not onely because they trusted to the Kings gentle disposition , or because they confided in their own Forces , as being of the stronger faction ; but also because they reposed on the conscience of their fact , the necessity of doing what they had done , and innocencie every other way towards every man. From this time the Earle of Angus continued Chancellour , so named in all Writs and Indentures untill the year 1496. the 14. of January , at which time he contracts his daughters to the Lord Harris , and the Lord Lile . He indents with Hugh Douglas Deane of Buchan , and sonne to the late Earle of Ormond , in two severall Indentures , whereof the condition of the one is to pursue for the lands of Evendale in the year 1493. the other in the year 1496. the 14. of January , is to this purpose ; That the said Hugh shall pursue for Glenwhome , Gladstanes , and any other Lands pertaining to the Earles of Douglas , Lord of Evendale , or his father the Earle of Ormond , and that having obtained them he shall resigne them in favour of the Earle of Angus . Other things remarkeable we have none , untill about the time of the Field of Flowden , which makes it seem to be probable ( which some allege ) that all this time he was confined in Arane . The pretended cause ( as they say ) was secret intelligence with King Henry of England ; but the true cause ( they say ) was his taking Jean Kennedie , daughter to the Earle of Cassils out of Galloway , to whom the King bare affection , and to whom the Earle gave infeftement , and seizing of the Lands of Bothwel , although he never married her . As touching the pretended cause it hath no appearance at all , seeing there was alwayes peace and friendship betwixt us and both the Henries ( the 7. and 8. ) untill the warre was denounced , or a very short time before . And concerning that of Jeane Kennedie , we have a note of an Indenture betwixt Angus Chancellour , and the Lord Kennedie , but they have neglected to set down about what it hath been in the year 1496. So that we are uncertain what to think of it . And contrary to this we finde that the Lands of Bothwel were not in the Earles hands , but in his sonne Georges , who got them from the Lord Bothwel in exchange for the Lordship of Liddisdale , which for that cause he resigned into the Kings hands in favor of the Earle Bothwel in the year 1492. so that the Earle could not give her the Lands that belonged to his sonne . Further our Histories tels us , that when James Earle of Aran , who was sent with the Navy which the King had prepared for a present to Queene Anne of France , had turned in upon Ireland , and having burnt Knockfergus , was come to Air a Sea-port in Coile , the King offended with his folly , gave the charge of the Ships to Angus for prosecuting of the voyage . But Aran having heard of it , hoysed saile , and was gone before Angus could come to the place where the Ships lay . Now although it should seem by this that the King continued his favour toward him , yet there are some apparant reasons to move us to think that it hath been somewhat diminished . For Alexander Lord Hume was made Warden of all the three marches ( and that before Flowdon ) of which the east and middle march at least had continued under the government of the Earles of Angus , for the space of three or foure generations , descending from father to sonne by succession , from Earle William in the persons of James , and George to this present Archbald . Other mention , or monument of him we have none till the Warres betwixt King James the 4. and King Henry the 8. of England . It is reported by some , that the Queene and he did what they could to disswade the King from that Warre , but when he could not prevaile with him , he followed him into England . There the King having wasted Northumberland , and taken Norham with some few other Castles , got a view of the wife of one Heron of the Foord , and did so fancie her , that he neglected the prosecuting of the warre , and care of his Army , and did nothing but dallie with her . Whilest the Army lay there idle , the English sent a Herauld to the King desiring that he would appoint a day for battell . But the greatest part of the Nobility did dislike it . And the Earle of Angus though he saw all this and many moe errours , yet he held his peace all this while , whereas the rest of the Nobilitie reasoned with the King , but in vain . For the King told them flatly , he would fight them though they were a hundreth thousand more , and that he would retire . Then ( and not till then ) the Earle of Angus hearing his answer , and knowing the danger of such resolution , being the Chief man amongst them both for years and authoritie , he went about to set before the King the reasons of the counsell given him , hoping by that meane to break him of his determination , in these words . Sir ( said he ) your Majestie hath done abundantly to satisfie your friendship with the King of France , in that ye have made the King of England withdraw the greater part of his Army out of France , and have turned the danger of the War from him without endangering your self . For they cannot keep the fields long in a Countrey that is so cold and wasted , especially now when the Winter is so near . Neither need your Majestie to wonder that the French Ambassadour is so instant with us to fight ; he being a stranger , it is no strange thing to see him prodigall of other mens bloud , who doth not regard the good of the parties , but the benefite that will thereby redound to France . Besides , his request is altogether impudent and shamelesse : For he requires us to do that which his master ( a man of great understanding ) thinks not fit to do for his own Kingdom . Neither should the losse of this Army seem small , because our number is few , for all that are of worth , & excell either in wisedome or valour in Scotland are here , and these being slain , the vulgar will become a prey to the enemy . Therefore as it is safest for the present to prolong the Warre , so is it most profitable in generall . For if Lewis would have either the English exhausted with charges , or wearied with delay , what is more convenient , then to compell him to divide his Forces , by keeping one half thereof continually in readinesse against us , who lye in wait to invade his Countrey upon every occasion , so to ease the French of so much of their burden ? As for your honour and reputation , which men pretend , what can be more honourable , than having razed so many Forts and Castles , wasted and spoyled their Countrey with fire and sword , to returne laden with such store of spoyle , that they shall not be able to recover their losses , nor their soile redeem the former beautie in many years , though there should happen to be peace ? What greater commoditie can we expect to reap of the Warre , than in such a tumultuous noise of Armes to have leisure to refresh our souldiers with ease and quietnesse , to our credit , and to our enemies shame ? Of all the victories that are acquired , that which is obtained more by counsell , than force of Armes , is most properly the victory of man , and the praise of it doth onely redound to the Commander and Generall ; for in it the Armie can claim no part or interest . When the Earle had ended his speech , all that were present shewed by their countenance , that they did approve and assent unto his counsell . But the King who had solemnely sworn to give battell , heard him unwillingly , and answered angerly ; bidding him , if he were afraid , go home . Then Angus seeing the King obstinate , and fore-seeing in his minde what would be the event of such headinesse , burst forth in teares , and after a while having gathered his spirits again , when he was able to speak , If my former life , said he , doth not free me from the imputation of fearfulnesse , I know not by what other evidence I can clear my self ; while this body of mine was able to endure labour and toyle , I spared it not for the defence of our Countrey , and honour of our Kings . Now seeing my counsell , by which onely I am able to do good , can have no place , I leave here my two sonnes , who next after my Countrey are dearest to me , together with the rest of my friends and kinsmen ; the surest pledge that I can give of my affection to your Majestie , and to the rest that are here present . And I pray God that this my fear may prove frivolous , and that I be rather esteemed a false prophet , than that those things happen , which I think I see before mine eyes . And so he took his leave , and departed , leaving behinde him with the King his eldest son George , and Sir William of Glenbarvie , whom he exhorted to carry themselves valiantly , as those they were come of had ever done , and recommending them to God and their good fortune , he rode home . As the Earle of Angus presaged , so it fell out : for the battell was fought at Flowdon , where the day was lost , and the King slain , yet his body could never be found , which had been easily discerned by the chain of iron which he ware for a girdle . There were also slain at this battell George Master of Angus , and Sir William of Glenbarvie , with some 200. Gentlemen of the name of Douglas . Their father the Earle went to Saint Mains in Galloway . He lived there a year after , an austere and hard life , where he died also , and was buried in the Church of Saint Mains , about the year 1514. his heart was carried to Douglas . The years of his age were 61. or 62. by all the conjecture that can be made . So that it hath not been so much for his years , as for some other infirmitie , that his body hath not been able and fit for service , as he sayes himself at Flowdon . He was a man every way accomplished both for minde and body . He was for stature tall , and of a strong composition . His countenance was full of majestie , and such as bred reverence in the beholders ; wise and eloquent of speech ; upright and square in his actions ; sober and moderate in his desires , valiant and couragious , a man of action and undertaking , liberall also of heart and hand , loving and kinde to his friends ; which made him to be beloved , reverenced , and respected of all men . He gave proof of his personall valour in a duell which is reported to have been thus . The King on a time was discoursing at table of the personages of men , and by all mens confession the prerogative was adjudged to the Earle of Angus . A Courtier that was by ( one Spense of Kilspindie ) whether out of envie to hear him so praised , or of his idle humour onely , cast in a word of doubting and disparaging : It is true , said he , if all be good that is up-come ; meaning if his action and valour were answerable to his personage and body . This spoken openly , and coming to the Earles ears in the worst interpretation , offended him highly . It fell out after this , as the Earle was riding from Douglas to Tantallon , that he sent all his company the nearest way , and he himself with one onely of his servants , having each of them a hawke on his fist in hope of better sport , took the way by Borthwick towards Falawe ; where lighting at the brook at the West end of the town they bathed their hawkes . In the mean time this Spense happened to come that way , whom the Earle espying , said to his man , Is not this such an one , that made question of my manhood , I will go to him , and give him a triall of it , that we may know which of us is the better man. No , my Lord , said his servant , it is a disparagement for your Lordship to meddle with him , I shall do that sufficiently , if it will please your Honour to give me leave . I see , said the Earle , he hath one with him , it shall be thy part to grapple with him , whilest I deal with his Master . So fastening their hawkes , that they might not flye away in the mean time , they rode after him , and having over-taken him ; What reason had you , said the Earle to him , to speak so contemptuously of me at such a time , doubting whether my valour were answerable to my personage ? When the other would have excused the matter , he told him , that would not serve the turne ; Thou art a big fellow , and so am I , one of us must pay for it . The other answered , If it may be no better , there is never an Earle in Scotland , but I will defend my self from him as well as I can , and will rather kill him , if I can , than suffer him to kill me . So alighting from their horses , they fought a certain space , but at last the Earle of Angus with a stroake , cut Spenses thigh-bone asunder , so that he fell to the ground , and died soon after . The two serving-men were very hard at it still , when the Earle came and stayed them , saying to Spenses man , Go thy way , tell my Gossip the King , there was nothing here but fair play : I know my Gossip will be offended ; but I will get me into Liddisdale , and remain in the Hermitage till his anger be over . And so it is thought he did : whereupon the King , when he was pacified , caused the Earle to exchange his Lordship of Liddisdale , with the Lands of Bothwell , alleging that there was no order to be had of the Earles of Angus so long as they kept Liddisdale : What other reasons the Earle had to move him to this excambion , I know not , nor why he should have preferred Bothwell ; but it is certain his son George exchanged them with his consent . One fault he had , that he was too much given to women ; otherwayes there was little or nothing that a man could have wished to be helped in him , or that was amisse . Archlbaldus Angusiae primus . Palponum dum turba ferox illudere regi Non timet ; idque palam plebsque patresque fremunt ; Amissum decus imperii ; vilescere sceptrum ; Omnia turbari tum for is atque domi ; Cochronum extinxi ( caput horum & dux nebulonum Is fuit ) & laqueo colla scelesta dedi . Talibus infestus quod sim Gnathonibus , atro Dente petit , famam rodit & aula meam . Faex hominum , procerum pestis , Regumque ruin●… ; Quo magis oblatras , hoc magis illa nitet . Archbald of Angus , the first of that name . Whiles bloudy flatterers did not fear T' abuse their Princes name and ear : Whiles great , and mean , and all repine , Whiles the Kings honour doth decline , His rule too much despis'd by all , And State affairs to ruine fall . Cochran their Head was hang'd by me : And for I punisht such as he , They do attempt my name to stain With slanders , but these dregs of men , The pest of Courts , the shame of Kings , Their greatest hate most honour brings . Of George Master of Angus , and sonne to Archbald the first . HIs eldest son ( as hath been said ) was George slain at Flowdon , designed commonly by the appellation of Master of Angus . He was married to Elizabeth Drummond , daughter to the Lord Drummond of whom we told how he defeated the Earle of Lennox . His children by her were three sonnes . First Archbald , afterward Earle of Angus . Secondly Sir George of Pittendrich . Thirdly William Priour of Colding hame . His daughters were , First the Lady Yester . Secondly the Lady Basse. Thirdly Jeane Lady Glames . Fourthly Alison , married first to Robert Blackader , of Blackader , and afterward to Sir David Hume of Wedderburne . Fifthly the Lady Drumlanerige , as I take it . Also they mention a sixth , married to a Baron in the North , whom they name not , neither do I know who he should be . His age at his death ( to reckon from the 15. year of his fathers age in the 1469. to the year of his own death at Flowdon 1513. ) was not above 44. His actions , because he never came to be Earle , are not recorded . Some dealing there was betwixt him as Governour of Liddisdale , and the Lord Dacres in England , with whose Deputies he agrees to meet at Dumfreis , for doing of Justice in the year 1489. the year after the King was killed at Bannock-burne . So at Cannabie he met with the Lord Dacres himself , where they accorded not well : For they intended both to send to the Councels of both Nations to have their determination of their differences . He agrees the same year with Sir Robert Lundie of Bagonie , Treasurer for a generall remission to Ewsdalde , Eskdale , and Niddisdale , which I think should rather be Liddisdale , for a 1000. pounds , being at this time not above 20. years of age , not out of Curatorie by the Laws , though that was in his fathers hands . Yet we see also Courts held in his name , by his Bailiffs , as a retoure of Adam Ker , to some Lands in Selkrig , in the said year , which makes me to think he hath been then married . Also he it is , as we told above , that excambes the Lands of Liddisdale for Bothwell with Patrick Earle Bothwell , resigning the Lands of Liddisdale , and the King disponing them upon the resignation in the year 1492. upon what reason either the Earle Bothwelshould have affected these , or he preferred the other , and not thought himself as fit to rule that unruly Countrey as any other , I have not heard . But it was done in his fathers life time , who was no fool when he was in his greatest vogue , the first three years of King James the fourth . He allies afterward with this same Earl Bothwel , marrying his sonne Archbald to his daughter , but that must be long after , except that he hath been married young , as some say he was . In the year 1510. he indents for the marriage of his fourth daughter Alison to Robert Blackaders sonne , and apparent heir to Andrew Blackader of that Ilk. Her portion 300. marks , the terms , 1. at the compleating 40. pounds , and 20. pounds , at the feast of Martimasse next after ; and so 20. pounds termly till it were payed . That same year he is infeft in Abernethie . And this is all we have of him , which we have set down chiefly for his children , and the Historie that followeth of them . Of Archbald the seventh Earle of Angus and the second Archbald . TO Archbald the first , succeeded Archbald the second , his Grand-childe by his sonne George Master of Angus . He was thrice married , first to Margaret Hepburne daughter to Patrick Hepburne the first Lord Bothwell , being as yet very young : for at his second marriage he was not old , but a youth , or stripling , Adolescens . She died in childe-birth within the year ( as they say ) immediatly after the Field of Flowdon . 2. His second wife was Queen Margaret relict of King James the 4. and daughter to King Henry 7. of England . She bare to him a daughter Lady Margaret Douglas , who was married to Matthew Stuart Earle of Lennox , and bare to him Henry Lord Darnly , that married Queen Mary of Scotland , and father to King James the sixt of Scotland , and first of great Brittain now happily reigning . Lady Margaret had also another sonne named Charles , who was father to the Lady Arabella . 3. His third wife was Margaret Maxwell daughter to the Lord Maxwell . She bare to him a sonne and a daughter , who died both of them before they were 8. years old . He had also a base daughter by a daughter of Traquairs , Jeane Douglas married to the Lord Ruthven . Some say that he begot this daughter in the Queens time , while she lying in of Lady Margaret Douglas in England , after her delivery went to London and stayed there with her brother King Henry the 8. and with her sister the late Queen of France , and then Duchesse of Suffolk . Others say that it was before . He had also a base sonne ( as I take it ) commonly called George the Postulant to a by-name , because ( I know not upon what claim or title ) he did postulate and claim the Abbacie of Aberbroth ( or Abernethock ) and not onely did postulate it , but apprehended it also , and used it as his own . Having brought the house of Angus still increasing , and growing in greatnesse , and honour unto this man Archbald the second , shall we suffer it now to decay , or to take halt in his person ? No , but we shall see it increase so much the more , as he approacheth nearer unto that descent , which is able to give honour unto basenesse it self , far more to adde and multiply honour upon that which is already honourable . Men do not onely take honour from their progenitors ; their posterity makes them honourable , when they have much honour , and that variable according to the degrees of their honour more or lesse . Which seeing it is undeniable , in what place of honour shall we rank this Archbald , father to the Lady Margaret Douglas , and by her great Grandfather to our Soveraigne King James of great Brittain ? This one thing is enough to lift him up to the highest top of honour . All other things are but accessary ; yet are they additions of great importance . Men are honourable by their marriage : Who then so honourable as he ? Having married a Queen , a Kings daughter , a Kings sister , a Kings mother . Others also of the Subjects of this Countrey have married Queens ( I grant ) But none of them did marry Queen Margaret , a Lady so vertuous ; None did marry a Queen so Royally descended , and every way Regall in her father , her mother , her brother , her sister , her husband , her sonne being all of them Kings or Queens . None did marry a Queen without some blemish and diminition of her reputation but he . None with the approbation of all men ; even of the Queens own chief Kinred , with the allowance , desire , and exhortation of her Kinsfolks , of King Henry the 8. But you will say perhaps , that this hath been chance or fortune , or ignorance in her , blindnesse of an impotent woman , who placed her affection without desert , or that it hath been ignorance in King Henry her brother , a forrain Prince ill informed . Let us therefore hear such witnesses as were not blinded , either with womanly affection , or with the ignorance of a stranger ; such as were unpartiall , and who had neither fear nor hope , love or hatred , which are the common causes of partiality . These are ourhistories , which if they record truth ( as they are recorders of truth ) if there was any more worthy , or before him in any good quality , then let it be accounted folly in her , and weaknesse in her brother . What do these our Histories then say ? First of his place and descent , they say he was the first of the youth of Scotland for Nobility . Lo here is one good quality , and that a very main one , wherein her choyce and her brothers approbation are justified , and he shown to be worthy , nay most worthy by his place and birth , whereof we have said enough heretofore . But let that be thought of no moment or value if there be no more . What say they next ? What of himself ? In himself ? in his personage ? The first of the youth of Scotland for favour and comelinesse of personage . I dare not consent to them that make no account hereof . It hath ever been in account ; men have thought it worthy , whereon to bestow a Kingdome . It is yet regarded , it affects all humane creatures , and moves us whither we will or no ; They say that beasts discern it not . I doubt of it , though we are not able to discern their discerning of it . But let them be beasts that do so . And let this also be nothing in him , if there be yet no more in him ; if there be no qualities joyned to it , which it gives lustre to , as gold to a Diamond . Let it be ( as in all men and women ) like a ring of gold on a Swines snout , ill placed , and matched ; unseemly , and unworthily . Yet it is gold , and gold is ever precious , and to be desired ; although the Swines snout of ill conditions be not worthy to be so fairly and finely deckt , or adorned . What are then his other properties and qualities of minde and man-hood , soule and body ? which is the third point . The first and principall ( say they ) of the youth of Scotland in all good exercise , knowledge , cunning , skill and understanding , belonging to a man of his place ! for I doubt not there were many more cunning Clerks than he ; yet not more sufficient in uprightnesse , honest vertue , dexterity , and good addresse , both in politick matters belonging to the good government of the Countrey ; and Gentleman-like , exercise becoming his estate , for body or minde , for peace , or warre . What particulars they are we shall see in his particuliar actions ; viz. valour , and true courage , with love and kindnesse to his Countrey , hereditarie properties from the very root of which he is sprung . Also wisedome and magnanimity , truth and uprightnesse in words and actions , with others which will appear , as the occasion occurres . And so we have him by these testimonies thrice ( that is every way ) first , or chief and principall . 1. Chiefe in Nobility beyond all . 2. Chiefe in personage , beyond all . 3. Chiefe in vertue , and all good arts ( for so is the word ) or qualities , beyond all . Worthy therefore whom the Queen should have preferred , and made choyce of to be her husband beyond , and before all . Worthy of whom should descend that race of Kings so Noble , beyond all . Which as it honours him , so doth it not disgrace or disparage that Noble and Princely race , to be come of such an one in his person ; of such stock in the whole race and descent of that whole Family , so noble , so worthy , and heroicall every way . Not so much private in place , as Princely in worth , all vertue and magnanimity ; though otherwise Subjects . And thus the honour of the house doth rise in his person , whom we see accounted by all every way honourable , honourable by bloud , honourable by vertue , honourable by marriage , honourable by affinitie and alliance , honourable by progenie and posteritie , honourable by all actions , by all valiant , and alwayes worthy acts . As for his greatnesse and puissance , we finde it at his entry and beginning matched ( yea over-matched ) by the Lord Hume Chamberlaine ; But in end harderto be matched by any , nay matching ( almost ) what should not be matched in any sort , where with no Subject should match himself . Which however good or evil it be in using , yet it is greatnesse to have done so . To come to his particular actions ; The first we finde is his marriage , which is not indeed to be attributed to his prudencie , or his purchasing , yet is it the effect of his worth . She affected him , and he had reason not to refuse the party . Her brother King Henry consents , and writes lovingly to them both . He had his own particular end , which was to counterpoize , or weigh down the French faction , and to hinder the incursions of Scotland by his means ; some say also to stay the Duke of Albanie from coming home to be Governour , but that was not yet motioned . And though that were his end , yet the other was the end of his desire to stay Albanie , and his main scope ; for all that he aimed at by staying of him was but to stay the Scottish warres , which he by his coming was like to set on foot . Things fal out contrary many times to mens intentions . This marriage brought in the Duke of Albanie , and by him had strengthened the French if he had guided wisely , kept the hearts of men in Scotland , and entertained his home-bringer , the Chamberlain , and given him a thankfull meeting for that work . But there is a providence , if men would observe . This plot fails King Henry , that fails the Chamberlain , this fails the Duke of Albanie . The King hopes to hinder the French by this marriage ; it furthers them to be all the guiders , being brought in by the Chamberlain . The Chamberlain looks to be rewarded , he hath his head stricken off . The Duke thinks that the Chamberlains death shall breed him all quietnesse , ease , and power , it looseth him the hearts of all men , and at last his office . The working of these things was thus . The Queen was by the King her husbands testament left Regent during her widow-hood . That lasted not long , from the 25. of September untill the next Spring was ended , say some : others say untill the 6. of August almost a year . Then she marrieth , and so fals from that charge . The Earle of Angus did labour to have it continued , and used a strong motive , which was , that so the peace should last with England , which was both profitable and necessary . The Queen during her Regencie had procured it ; She had written to her brother that he should stay the war , and abstain from troubling his Nephews Kingdome ; troubled already too much with factions within it self . He had answered her , that he warred against the Scots , when they made war against him ; and that he would keep peace with them when they kept peace with him . This was a magnanimous minde , and a Princely ( say our writers , not envious of the praise of the English ) though indeed it were not without a good policie . For by that meane he had leasure to prosecute his French intentions without fear of being disturbed or diverted by the Scottish incursions . But we will not extenuate it : he had indeed the better hand of it , and at this time peace was more needfull for Scotland . And therefore this reason brought by Angus for the continuation of the Queens authoritie was so much the greater . But it could not move the other party , whereof the Lord Hume ( Chamberlain ) was Chief . They shew their willingnesse to honour the Queen . That appeared ( say they ) in this , that contrary to the ancient custome of this Kingdome , they had suffered and obeyed her authority , whiles she her self kept her right by keeping her widow-hood . Now that she had quit it by marrying , why should they not choose another to succeed into the place which she had left ? which the old laws would also have taken from her , which do not permit that a woman should govern in the most peaceable times , far lesse now , when such evils do threaten , as can scarce be resisted by the wisest and most sufficient men . This they pretended , and touched the point that did annoy them . The marrying of the Earle of Angus had made him too great already , the continuing of her authority would make him farre greater . This they can not endure ; especially the Chamberlain who was jealous of his greatnesse , which he thought would impair and lessen his own , already beginning to decline , by the retiring and with-drawing of Liddisdale and Anandale from following him , and casting them again under the wings of the Douglasses , to whom they had wont to belong . This point being once obtained , that the Queen should governe no more , the next was , who then should be the man. Here also was no lesse strife and contention . The Chamberlains credit carried it away , his own power , his alliance , the Earle of Arane being his brother in law , the Earle of Lennox Aranes sisters son , joyned to the Prelates , ( a Faction ever French , and then more than ever by the King of Englands shaking off the yoke of Rome ) especially the Archbishop of Glasgow , a proud Prelate , and ever factious . By these men , all Noblemen at home are despised and balked , and the Office cast upon John , called afterward Duke of Albanie , Cousin-germane to the late King , being then in France , brought up in France , and onely with the French tongue , where his father was banished and forfeited , and he himself not restored : yet is he by them , who had not so much power as to restore him in the minoritie of a King ( as had been proved in King James the second his time , against the Earle of March restored in his minoritie ) ordained to be Governour of the King and whole Countrey . Bent was the Chamberlain that way : And so bent he was , that he professed openly at the Convention , that though they would all refuse , yet he alone would bring him home , and make him Governour . A great word , if he were not able to do it ; a great power if he were able . It is interpreted ambition in him , and that despairing to have that honour conferred on himself , and envying it to any other , he took this course . I cannot be of that minde . He that had power to do so much for another , had power to have done somewhat for himself : At least so far as to have gotten some part of the government with others , as it was customable , when they could not agree upon any one man , they divided it . It is reported also for ce●… , ●…at the Earle of Angus finding that he was so earnest in that course , went to him , and naming him familiarly by his name , Alexander , said he , what do you mean by this ? that man is a stranger to us , and understandeth not our language no more than we do his . He will work his own ends , and who knoweth after what manner ? Whether or not to the Kings prejudice , who is onely between him and the Crown . Certainly , he will never regard either of us , whom he will rather seek to depresse than to advance . Go to therefore , let us agree amongst our selves . Take you the government of the borders , and of all that lieth on that side of the river of Forth , and let me have the command on the other side . A fair offer , and a wise consideration , which the Chamberlain shall acknowledge hereafter too late , and shall himself say the like to him that now doth thus admonish him . For the present he refused obstinately , and ( as it may be thought ) fatally , persisting in his former resolution . Whereof when I consider what might have been the cause , I think it hath been not any distrust to obtain some place in the guiding of affairs , but a doubting how to keep it : if by chance any thwarting or insociablenesse of Empire should fall out between them at any time thereafter : in which case Angus could not but be the stronger by the power of England his allies , they having no partie so great to counterpoize them . For this cause he hath thought it fit to bring in the French to equall the ballance as principall , himself onely as accessarie , not doubting of a chief place both by his desert in bringing him home , and the necessitie of his service , which could never be lacking . On this rather than the other ground ( as I take it ) he hath laid down his course . But as well as he laid his grounds , hereupon he built both his ruine before three years were come about , and speedie repentance soon after the arrivall of his Governour . Howbeit upon this occasion the Duke of Albanie ( so called afterward ) is sent for , arrives , is made Earle of March , Duke of Albanie ( which his father had been before , but was forfeited ) and Governour untill the Kings ripe years . The Lord Hume comes to him , some say with a huge number ( 10000. horse ) to Dumbartan , whereupon the Governour said , he was too great to be a subject . Others report , that he came very privatly with his houshold onely ( some 24. horse in Kendall Green which was his Livery ) and that the Duke slighted him with this sentence , minuit praesentia famam ; being a man of low stature , and carrying no appearance of much stuff to be in him by his out-side . However he was then welcomed , and what faire and good countenance he got then , it lasted not long . John Hepburne Prior of S. Andrews was his enemie on this occasion . Andrew Stuart Archbishop of S. Andrews was slain at Flowdon . Three divers pretended to the place by divers meanes . Gawin Douglas Bishop of Dunkel , uncle to the Earle of Angus , by the Queens admission , Hepburne by the election of the Chapter , Andrew Foreman by the Popes gift . This Foreman was Abbat of Dumfermling , and Aberbrothe , Legat from the Pope , and had gotten this to maintain his grandour , or as a reward of his service . The question was hard to decide . All pretended right and reason . Gawin Douglas had gotten possession of the Castle , and had put servants into it ; but the Priour was stronger about the town , and findes a mean to thrust them out . Foreman cannot get his Bulls proclaimed : none durst take it in hand so long as Hume and Hepburne agreed . He workes wisely , having been born under the Lord Hume , he flees to him as his Patron , agrees with him as a friend , and gives the Abbacie of Coldinghame to his youngest brother David . He doth his turne , proclaimeth his Bull , but had no power in Fife to prosecute it any further . Yet it causeth Hepburne to come to a point , to take composition , the Bishoprick of Murray , and 3000. crownes by year , and a discharge for all his by-past intromissions . So he agrees with Foreman , but dis-agrees with the Lord Hume , and despites him with such malice , because of that morsell pulled out of his jawes , that he ceased not to work him what mischief he could . He did so possesse the Governour with jealousie of the Lord Humes and Angus greatnesse , and aspiring , that he thought there was no way to secure himself , and his Government , but by ridding the Countrey of them both . Wherefore the Lord Hume repairing to him , and finding by his neglectfull carriage , and cold entertainment , the little good-will he bare him , repenting too late his forwardnesse in his election , and calling to minde what Angus had foretold him , though he had contemned his counsell , yet now seeing no other remedie , went to him , and the Queen his wife , condemning his fact , and regrating the present estate of the King and Countrey , and advised them to flie into England with the young King. When the Governour had notice of this consultation , he used such diligence and expedition , that coming to Stirlin unlooked for , he surprized the Queen ; and removing her , and the Douglasses from about the King , he gave the keeping of him to the Lord John Ercskin , and other three Noblemen . Hereupon the Queen and Angus , as also the Lord Hume , and his brother William , with-drew themselves into England , and the Governour upon their departure , sent Ambassadours to King Henry to clear himself , that he had done nothing why they should be so afraid of him , or leave their Countrey . He dealt also privately with themselves by their friends , promising and protesting to give them all content and satisfaction , in such wayes , that they beleeving and desiring to live at home , returned all of them , save onely the Queen , who being then near the time of her childe-birth , remained at Harbottle in Northhumberland , where she was brought to bed of Lady Margaret Douglas . Then assoon as she was able to endure travell , she went to London , where she was kindly welcomed , and lovingly entertained by her brother King Henry , and her sister Mary Queen of France , and afterward Dutchesse of Suffolk . But the Governours head being once filled with suspitions , and new causes of distrust arising dayly , could not be quieted by their return , nor the Queens absence , neither could he think himself bound by promises . Gawin Douglas Bishop of Dunkel , uncle to Angus , was committed to prison : John Lord Drummond his Grandfather , or mothers brother , & David Panetier Secretarie to the late King , were likewise laid fast . Alexander Lord Hume , and his brother William , were executed , their goods confiscat , their lands forfeited , and their heads affixed on the Citie Gate of Edinburgh , called the Nether-Bow . Being thus rid of the Chamberlain , he did much fear the Earle of Angus , whom he left to governe in his absence ( for he went into France ) but joyned with him the Earles of Arran , Argyle , Huntley , the Archbishop of S. Andrews , and Glasgow , together with a Frenchman , named Antonius Darsius , commonly known by the title of Sieur de la Beaute . To this La Beaute he allotted Dumbar , the Shires of Lowthian , and the Merse , where the Chamberlaines lands and friends were . This Darsius was slain by Sir David Hume of Wedderburn , occasionally , in the year 1517. the 18. of September . For this Sir David was out-lawed , his house seized , and Sir George Douglas ( Angus brother ) suspected to be accessarie , imprisoned in Garvet Castle , they not daring to meddle with the Earl himself , who was no lesse suspected to have been conscious of it ( though falsely ) because Sir David had married their sister Alison . Not long after this , there fell out an occasion of great troubles betwixt the Earle of Angus , and the Earle of Arrane . There was some question of the Bailiff-ship and right of keeping Courts in Jedward Forrest , the Earle of Angus his Lands , but in which Andrew Ker of Farnihaste challenged a right and priviledge of doing justice , and punishing male-factors as hereditarie Bailiff . In this controversie Arrane sided with Farnihaste , not for any particular relation , or because he thought his right was good , but onely in opposition to Angus , whom he hated inwardly . What the cause of his hatred was , we hear not , and they had been good friends before . Arrans base sonne James Hamilton , as he was on his way towards Farnihaste to assist him , John Summervale of Camnethen set upon him , killed five or six of his company , took thirty men and horses , and pursued himself so near , that he was forced to turne in to Hume Castle for his safetie . This fact was imputed to Angus , on whom Summervale did for the most part depend , men thinking that it was done by his direction . But it is well known that besides this quarrell of the Earles , that man had ever a particular feude with the Hamiltons . But if the Earle had been guiltie of this wrong and offence done unto them , it is not likely that he would have been so slightly accompanied at Edinburgh , and have stayed their coming thither with so small forces , if he had suspected any ill meaning from them , or known any such deserving in himself . Besides they having so just cause , they might have complained and gotten redresse and satisfaction of the Earle by order of law , if they could have made it appear that he had any hand in it , and not have taken this violent course . Wherefore in all likelihood this was but a colour and pretext . Hereupon ( however ) in the year 1520. the 27. of April , a convention being appointed at Edinburgh where Archbald Douglas of Kilspindie ( the Earle of Angus his uncle , or Consin-German rather ) was Provest : the Hamiltons refused to come thither , alledging that they could not think themselves assured of their lives in the Town , where he was Provest . Archbald to cut off their excuse , and that he might not hinder publick businesse , laid down his office voluntarily , and in his room was chosen Robert Logane a Burgesse of Edinburgh . Then they came to the City , and finding the Earle of Angus there but meanly attended , and weakly guarded , his friends not being yet conveened , they assembled together with the chief Noblemen of the West in Archbishop Betons house in the Black-Frier-Winde ( this Beton was also Chancellour ) and there resolve by all means to apprehend Angus ; alledging that his power was so great , that nothing could be discerned freely , so long as he was free . The cause was plausible , their malice great , and the occasion fair , considering his singlenesse , and their multitude . So soon as Angus heard of their consultation , he sent to them his uncle the Bishop of Dunkell , desiring that if they had any grievance , or just quarrell against him , they would complain thereof to the convention , to whose censure he would submit himself , and make such satisfaction as it should please them to ordain . And to this purpose Dunkell spake to Glasgow the Chancellour , to move the rest to accept of this offer , and that he would not be an instrument of civill dissention . But he had fair perswading of him : no man was deeper in it than he , who was ringleader to the rest , and very Episcopally had put on armour to be present at it , and to assist them himself in person : yet he sought to excuse himself , and laid all the blame upon the Earle of Arran , who , said he , is highly offended with the Earle of Angus for many occasions , but chiefly for the affront done to his son by Sommervale , and for the slaughter of De la Beaute committed by his brother-in-law Sir David Hume , not without his knowledge , consent , and councell . For this cause Arran will needs have him to go to prison . There is no remedie , sayes Glasgow , upon my conscience I cannot help it . And in the heat of his asseveration he beat his breast with his hand , where his conscience lay well covered with a jack of Maile , or a Secret hid under his Seton or Cassock . And now being knocked upon , it answered with a ratling noise , which the plates of iron did yeeld , bearing witnesse against him how little he cared for that inward witnesse , which be-lyed him when he protested he was desirous to pacifie matters , being indeed thus preparing for warre . Neither did Dunkell stick to tell him so , saying , How now my Lord , me thinks your conscience clatters . We are Priests , it is not lawfull for us to put on armour , or bear Arms , it makes us irregular . And so leaving him , he returned to his Nephew , and told him shortly that there was no possibility of composing matters , and as little of escaping or fleeing , for the City Gates were shut , and his enemies were assembling . For me I am a Church-man , I will go to my Chamber and pray for you . And so he did , but he sent his servants with the Earle to aide him . Some ascribe this to want of strength , and to his debilitie and old age ; but it was indeed , because he held it not lawfull , as a thing forbidden in the Canon-law , and which he had reproached to Bishop Beton . For in the year 1513. his eldest brother George slain at Flowdon was but 44. and Gawin the fourth brother not above 38. or 39. so that now in the year 1520. he hath not been more than 46. which is no age of Decrepitnesse . Dunkell being gone to his devotion , Angus without further consultation resolves rather to die honourably defending himself against his enemies , than to be hailed ( he and his friends ) forth to the Scaffold , and lay their necks upon the block to be be-headed by their proud and insulting enemies . So he conveens his small troup , tels them what his minde was , and exhorts them to stand to it manfully . They all commended his resolution , and shewed themselves most willing to hazzard their lives for his safety . Wherefore that they might not be surprized in their Chambers , they came forth , and went down the High-Street ( for the Earle did lodge at the Straight-Bow ) being in all but 80. or 100. at most ; but they were all of them choice men , valarous , and hardie . Angus was well beloved in the Town , so that when he came by the Shops where the Pikes and Speares are made , they had libertie to furnish themselves with long Weapons , and many also were reached to them by the Citizens out at the Windows , and from the Stairs ; which was no small advantage , their enemies having no long Weapon at all . The Chief Street is so seated that the Gates being shut there is no entrie to it , but by some few Lanes that reach from the Cow-gate ; in one of which called the Black-frier-Winde the adverse party had conveened . Now that they might not issue forth upon him at divers places , and so oppresse him with their multitude , Angus had caused his men to close up and barre the entrances of the Lanes with Coale-horses , and Ale-barrels , Carts , and such things as would best serve for that purpose , and could be gotten on a sudden . He placed also some few men at every Lanes head to defend the Barricadoes ; but he himself with the choycest and most resolute of his company , planted themselves directly over against the Black-frier-Winde , which he had left open for them , and as they thronged out , he assailed them with Pikes and long Weapons . There having slain many of the formest that came out , and scattered them all , he drave the rest down the Lane , which by the narrownesse thereof , made their number unprofitable , as had been rightly fore-seen by Angus , who knew that a few would be able to make good a straight passage against many , their multititude availing nothing , scarce one of ten having room to fight at once , and come to strokes together . The Earle of Arran and his sonne James Hamilton ( having been apparantly of that number that issued forth at the Lanes head at first , or else he could not have gone that way ) crossing the High-Street , fled down a Lane on the Northside of the City , and finding a Coale-horse standing in their way , they threw off his loading , and rode through the North-logh at a foord where there is none known now , and so escaped easily , no man pursuing them that way . The rest were scattered on the other side of the Town , of which some fled to the Gray-Friers Monasterie for sanctuary , the Chancellour fled on foot to Lithgow . In the mean time , while they were at this bickering within the City with great tumult , William Douglas Priour of Coldingham ( Angus his brother ) and Sir David Hume ( his brother in law ) came to the City Gates with 800. horse which they had brought out of the Merse ; and finding them shut , broke open the wicket with Smiths hammers , and so entred . But before they could get in , the fray was ended . Angus strengthened and emboldened with this supply , because the City was still full of his enemies , caused it to be proclaimed with sound of Trumpet at the Market-Crosse , that none should be seen abroad with Arms but he and his , under pain of death . This enforced them of his adverse party to crave leave to depart , which was granted unto them . Such was his moderation towards those who had plotted his ruine and overthrow . He had fought for his life and honour , not out of malice , or hatred ; and now that these were out of danger he lets his enemies go away safe and sound . And so there departed of them in one company 800. horse well laughed at , and derided of the beholders , to see so many beaten and chased by so few . Besides these there were many others that had fled before , and divers stayed still in the City lurking . This conflict fell out in the year 1520. the last of April , in which there were 70. slaine , and two of note ; Patrick Hamilton brother to Arran , and the Master of Montgomerie . The Chancellour ( as we have said ) fled disguised to Stirlin to the Queen . After this , Sir David Hume returning to the Merse , and being thus strengthened by the authority and countenance of Angus , found means to take his own house of Wedderburne from those that had kept it since the killing of De la Beaute . He took also the Castle of Hume at the same time which had been seized on by the Governour , and was kept by men that he had put into it . And thus was the Earle of Angus partie settled and strengthened in the Merse . Also in Lowthian he had no opposition or contrary , neither in Tividale , and such other parts of the borders . The Hamiltons were the onely great men that had any equality to match him , and were now incensed by their losse at Edinburgh . Some of his friends lay near unto them , Robert Lord Boyde was his depender , and speciall friend . He was also near to him in bloud , for Angus his Grand-mother ( Elizabeth Boyde ) was sister to Thomas Boyde , Grand-father to this Robert. The Lord Boyde was nearer to Arran ; for King James the third his sister was mother to Arran , and Grand-mother to Boyde , as is probable . But Boyde followed Angus more than him . His house of Kilmarnock in Cunninghame , lay nearest to their Forces in Cliddisdale , and farthest from the Earle of Angus his power and friendship . Therefore they besiege it , but without successe , it being so well defended , that they rose and went away without getting of it . The next year ( 1521. the 18. of July ) Angus came to Edinburgh , accompanied with his friends , and especially the Humes that were banishshed , as our writers designe them . By which he means rathest ( as I think ) George now Lord Hume ( for he is Lord ever after this ) and Sir David of Wedderburne with his brothers , who may be said to have been banished , in regard he was denounced Rebell , and out-lawed : but otherwise he never went out of the Countrey , but dwelt ever still in some part of the Merse . There Angus ( as Buchanan sayes ) but ( as our folks say ) George Lord Hume and Wedderburne , by Angus his connivence , took down the heads of the late Chamberlain , and his brother William , and interred them solemnly in the Gray-friers . He passed from thence to Stirlin , hoping to have found the Chancellour Beton there , but he was fled . From thence he returned to Edinburgh . About the 28. of October , the Governour returned out of France . Angus his power seemed to him to be too great . He determines to diminish it . For which purpose he commands himself to go into France , causeth his uncle the Bishop of Dunkell to be sent for to Rome , as wee have said above . Neither did Angus return out of France , untill the Government was taken from the Duke , who from this time forward doth nothing of importance . For the next year 1522. he went with an Army to Solway to have invaded England ; But his Army loved him not ; all went unwillingly with him , and against the hair . The Earle of Huntly being come within three miles of England , openly refused to go any further ; so that he was forced to move Dacres and Musgrave ( English-men ) under hand to sue for peace , that he might have some shew of an honourable cause for his retreat . Wherefore the 10. of October the same year , away he goeth again to France having stayed one full year in Scotland , and returnes into Scotland the next year 1523. the 22. of September . He brought then with him 3000. foot , and 100. men of arms . Then assembling an Army of Scots ( the 20. of October ) thinking to do great matters with his French aid , but having passed Tweed at the Bridge of Melrosse , he was served just as he had been the year before ; they refused still to enter into England . Thereupon he came back again to the other side of the River , and coming along by the bank thereof on Scottish ground , he began to batter from thence the Castle of Warke standing on the other side of the River on English ground . And having made a breach caused his French-men to give the assault , who entred the breach , but they were repulsed again , and beaten out . So he left the siege , and retired to Lawder in the night . In the spring he goeth again into France promising to return before September , and taking a promise of the Nobilitie that they should not transport the King from Stirlin before his return . This their promise was keeped with the like sidelity as he had kept his promise made to the Chamberlain . For the King was brought to the Abbey of Halyroodhouse by the Queen his mother ; The Earls of Arran , Lennox , Crawford , and many others : And from thence with all solemnitie of Parliament , to the Parliament house , where he did solemnly abrogate the Governours authority : by which mean he saved him a labour of returning into Scotland again . He needed not , neither did he return any more to it , nor passe the Seas for that errand . He had governed , or rather mis-governed the space of nine years . He spent in his journeyes , and staying in France , five whole years , or six of these nine , being absent from the countrey , and leaving it a prey to forreiners , and civill ambition and dislention , and when he was at home , he abused and oppressed the Nobilitie by slaughter or banishment . But though he returned no more , yet others returned for him , those whom he had caused go to France by his authoritie , do now return without his licence , yea without licence or recalling of any other , for ought we read . The Earle of Angus returnes after he had been in France almost three years . He returned through England , having first sent Simon Panango , and obtained licence of K. Henry , by whom he was received lovingly , and dismissed liberally . For K. Henry desired greatly the diminishing of the Governours authoritie , & was glad of the alterations in Scotland , & therefore did make the more of Angus , because he knew that he was opposite to the Duke . At his returne he found the estate of the Countrey in this case . We told before , how in the year 1518. the Queen his wife , and he , had with-drawn themselves into England , and stayed at Harbottle , where she bare her daughter Lady Margaret Douglas : how her husband having returned into Scotland , she ( after her deliverie ) went to the Court of England to visit her brother and her sister , with whom she stayed for the space of a whole year . In which time the Earle her husband becomes acquainted with a daughter of Traquair , by whom he had a daughter called Jeane Douglas , married afterward to Patrick Lord Ruthven . When the Queen came home again , he meets her at Berwick , and brought her to Edinburgh . She having gotten notice of this wrong he had done her , never lived with him in that love they had done before . And now having set her affection upon a younger brother of the Lord Ochletrees , whom she intended to create Lord Methven , she was become altogether his enemie : And that so obstinately , that howbeit her brother K. Henry wrote to her , that for her own honour , for the peace and quietnesse of the countrey , and for the advantage of his affaires , she would be reconciled to him ; yet she not onely would not yeeld to it , but even sued for a divorcement before the Pope , at the Court of Rome , alledging that Angus had been affianced , betrothed , or hand-fasted to that Gentlewoman who bare the childe to him , before he had married her , and so by reason of that pre-contract , could not be her lawfull husband . She prevailed not in her sute , for her alledgance could not be proved , being also untrue : but she increased in spight and hatred against him , and was set ( by all the means she could ) to overthrow him . This drew Arran to be of her Faction ; both of them disliking that Angus should be in the first place , and suspecting he would not be contented with the second , bent their Forces to contend against him as for dominion and empiring . On the other side there were the Earle of Lennox , and Argyle , who had assisted the Queen and Arran , and helped them to abrogate the Duke of Albanies authority , and to establish the King himself in the Government of the Kingdome . But now finding that the Queen and Arran took all the guiding of the King and Countrey into their own hands onely , and did not admit them to be any way sharers with them therein , but wholly excluded them from all copartnership , they were glad of Angus his returne : for they knew that by his power they should be able either to break the authoritie of the Queen and Arran , or to diminish it in some measure . Neither were they deceived in their expectation : for having conveened the greater part of the Nobilitie , Angus , Lennox , and Argyle , are chosen Keepers and Governours of the King and Countrey . Hereupon they passe forth with great celeritie , accompanied with 2000. horse , and move Archbishop Beton , Chancellour , to consent to the election , who did accordingly , not daring to refuse . Then to Stirlin they go , and there depose all that bare any publick Office , whom they suspected , and placed in their rooms such as were sure to their side . From thence they came to Edinburgh , and made there entrie without violence . The Queen and Arran remained in the Castle with the King , confident in the strength of the place , and the Kings ( though naked , and unarmed ) authoritie : but there being but a small trench cast up about the Castle , they yeelded themselves , and it , because they were no wayes provided for enduring a siege . The King onely was retained , and the rest dismissed . The order of governing agreed upon amongst these three Earles , was , that they should rule by turnes , each of them his foure moneths successively . The first place was Anguses , either by lot , or by consent . During the time of his presiding , the Abbacie of Holy-rood-house fell vacant , the Abbot thereof George Creichton being advanced to be Bishop of Dunkell . Angus conferres this Abbacie on his brother William , Prior of Coldinghame , either by himself and his own power , or by moving the King to conferre it upon him , and that without the consent of the other two , which he thought he needed not , seeing he was absolute Governour for his time . The other two thought themselves wronged by this balking , and thought that howsoever he was for those moneths to attend the King alone , yet that he ought not to governe , or dispose of any thing of moment by himself alone . So they take offence at it , and Argyle retires , and with-drawes himself home into Argyle . Lennox would gladly have done the like , but the King detained him for the love he bare him , yet did he utter his discontentednesse many wayes . Thus is the Trium-virate dissolved : for which dissolution Angus is blamed , as having encroached upon the others , and drawing all to himselfalone . But he seemes to be unjustly blamed , if this were the time of his Government ( as it should appeare it was ) and not of attendance onely ; for they also attended the King at that same time . The decision of this question depends upon the words of the Act or Contract of their agreement in point of governing , which we have not precise . Yet they seem to have been too hastie , in that they did not expect their turne , during the time of which some such thing , or perhaps some betterthing might have fallen in their donation , wherein if he had impeded , or hindered them , then they might have had just and undeniable cause to complain of him . Now they abandon their charge , and thereby give him occasion to administer all alone , which is imputed to his ambition . And so he takes all upon him , making small reckoning of their offence , which he esteemed to be unjustly taken ; and leaning to the greatnesse of his own power , which was such as we have said ; and was now also increased by having the Earl of Huntly for his ward and pupill , he being left Tutour by his Grandfather Earle Alexander Gordon , and having gotten the Wardship from the King ; so that now he had the friends and dependers of the house of Huntly to be his . In this mean time fell out the slaughter of Patrick Blackader Archdeacon of Dumblane , Cousin Germane to Robert Blackader , sometime Priour of Coldingham , and brother Germane to Robert Blackader late of Blackader . Robert the Priour of Coldingham had been slain before by Sir David Hume of Wedderburne , and his brother John Hume being in his company , is thought to have given him the deadly stroake . This Sir David married Alison Douglas sister to the Earle of Angus , and relict of Robert Blackader of Blackader . She had two onely daughters , married to two of Sir Davids brothers ; the eldest to this John Hume , and the younger to Robert Hume , who claimed , and possest the Lands of Blackader in the right of their wives , who were heirs of Line . Hence arose deadly feude betwixt them , and the name of Blackader , who challenged to be heirs by entailment of the Lands to the heirs male . Wherefore they had laid wait for John divers times to have slain him : especially at one time he being in a Taverne in Edinburgh , and his men being all abroad , or in another room with a Gentleman or two of his acquaintance , and companions , a Priest of Arch-deacon Blackaders camè into the room where he was . John , not knowing who he was , desired him to drink with him out of courtesie , but he refused , and went forth presently . When he was gone , one of the house sayes to John , if ye had known who that man was , ye would not have offered him any wine , for it was such an one . If I had known ( sayes John ) that it had been he , I should have made him drink his bellie full whether he would or not . As they were thus talking , a servant of the house going to the door , espies the Arch-deacon coming with a great company of men , and came running to John and told him of it , who leaping to the door just as they were ready to enter , made good the door , and drave them back , so that with much ado , he and those that were with him found means to shut it . This attempt so incensed him , that having understood of the Arch-deacons coming to Edinburgh at this time , he lay in wait for him by the way , and slew him . This slaughter was imputed to the Earle of Angus by his enemies ; at least some aspersion thereof was rubbed upon him , because ( as they alledged ) Angus had sent for the Arch-deacon , and he was come upon his sending for , and ( as some said ) upon an appointment of agreeance to be made betwixt John Hume and him . But John ever in all discourse , or conference of that businesse denied that ever there was any appointment , or overture of agreement , or that he ever knew of Angus his sending for him . That which made it the rather beleeved to be done by Angus consent , or privity was , because when in the tumult raised upon the slaughter , divers went out to have apprehended John , Sir George Douglas ( the Earls brother ) went out also to have taken him at the Earls command , who was highly offended that he should have committed this insolencie in his government ; whom when the others saw , they suspected that he being Johns wives uncle , and seeing many Douglasses and Humes in his company ( who were friends and allied with John ) was come out , not to apprehend but to defend and assist him . Wherefore they returned from pursuing of him . Sir George also returned shortly after without finding him ; neither was there any search made for him after that : Angus ( besides that he was uncle to Johns wife ) having almost continuall use of serviceable and active men , being loath to offend his brother Sir David , and his other friends in the Merse . And now were things in working , and a faction making against Angus . Arch-bishop Beton , who had joyned with him rather out of fear , than good-will , had quickly fallen off from them : And Angus , to be revenged of him , had brought the King to his lodging in Edinburgh , and intrometted and seized on his houshold stuffe for his own use . Argyle and Lennox had separated from him : The Queen and Arran were his professed enemies . These had their friends about the King. Lennox was ever with him , and most entire of any . His domestick servants were corrupted by the Queen , who therefore all sought by all means to alienate the Kings minde from the Douglasses , detracting and calumniating their actions , some justly , many of them unjustly , aggravating their errours , mis-interpreting things doubtfull , concealing the good which they did , and traducing all . Thus did the King ( though to retain his favour they had used him with all indulgence , and had loosed the rains to all delights and pleasures , even more than was fit ) weary of their government . Yet were they so incircumspect , or carelesse , that they neglected to remove his suspected servants , and to place their own assured friends about him ; either not doubting them that were wirh him , or being too confident in their own strength and power , so that by little and little he became altogether alienate : at last he opened his minde to such as he trusted , and began to conferre with them of the way and means how to be set free from that bondage , as he was taught to call it . Above all he did most especially conferre with the Earle of Lennox . While they are in plotting of these devices , Angus ( either not knowing , or not caring what they were doing ) was much troubled in settling and ordering the borders , and the out-laws there . He had made many rodes thither , but effected nothing or litle . Now he takes resolution ( for the better furtherance ) to go into Tividale , and ( the more to terrifie the malefactours , and to encourage others against them ) to take the King with him . Being come to Jedbrough , he moves the King to command the chief of the Clannes to bring in such men as were given up by name in writing to him . It was obeyed ; and by that mean many were execute and put to death , many pardoned in hope of amendment , and that of the principall malefactours . While all are glad hereof , and their mindes loosed to some peace of contentment , the occasion seemed fair , and as it had been fallen from Heaven , to them who were enemies to the Douglasses , of taking the King out of their hands and custodie . The mean is devised thus , that Balcleugh ( who dwelt within a little of Jedbrough ) should invite the King to his house , and retain him there ( being not unwilling ) till more were come and conveened . But that plot failed by chance , or by discovery , the King being brought back to Melrosse . Notwithstanding hereof , Balcleugh resolving to prosecute ; what he intended , would assay to do by force what he had failed in by craft . He assembled about 1000. horse of his friends and other borderers accustomed to theft . He cast himself to be in the Kings way , as he was to passe into Lowthian at the Bridge of Melrosse upon Tweed . The Earle of Angus sends to him , and asks his meaning , & wils him to retire . He answered , he was come to show himself , and his friends to the King his Master , as other border-men did . Then a Herauld was sent to him , commanding him to with-draw himself out of the way , in the Kings name ; but his answer was , that he knew the Kings minde as well as he , and would not go away till he saw him . The Earle of Angus had not so many in number about him as Balcleugh , yet those he had being his choyce Gentlemen , together with the Chiefs of the names of Hume , and Ker , George Lord Hume , and Andrew Ker of Cesford , all valiant and active men , he resolved to hazzard battell . And because they were all come out on horse-back , he gave order that they should alight , and fight on foot . The Lord Hume answered , he would do so if the King would command him to do it . We hear not what answer was made , or that the King commanded , but he alighted , and took part very honestly with the rest . Balcleugh also alighted , but he had no sooner joyned battell , than a great number of his men ( better accustomed to steal then to fight ) fled away and left him . He himself , and his friends , stood to it manfully , and continued the fight , which was for a space very fierce and hard ; as being in the presence of the King , who was a beholder , and was to be the reward of the victor . At last Walter Scot of Balcleugh , being hurt , his whole company turned their backs , there being fourscore of them slain , and having first slain Andrew Ker of Cesford . Balcleugh escaped himself out of the Field . Hereupon began deadly feude betwixt the Kers and Scots ; or was renued and continued divers years after , and divers murthers and slaughters followed upon it , amongst which was the slaughter of Sir Walter Scot himself in Edinburhg . There my Lord Fleming also alighted with Angus , and took part in the conflict ; but the Earle of Lennox sate still on his horse by the King , as an indifferent spectatour , and looker on . He being before a suspected , but now ( by this ) a declared enemie to the Douglasses with-drew himself from Court. This fell out about the 18. of July 1526. After this attempt , Angus perceiving so many evil-affected toward him , entred into parleying with the Earle of Arran ; and having composed their old differences , received him to be his partner , and fellow-governour in ruling the Countrey . This did the more incense Lennox against them both , and his anger made them both the more watchfull and carefull to strengthen themselves against him . The ground of their dissention was this ; Lennox was Arrans sisters sonne ( as hath been said ) and failing heirs of his own body , was to be his heir , and to succeed as well to the Earldome of Arran , as to his right and title to the Kingdome of Scotland , after the King and his heires , and there being great appearance of it , Lennox had conceived great hope that he should be his heir , because his uncle Arran had been long married to the Chamberlan Hume his sister , and had no children by her . She also her self ( whether because she was of good age , or because she had been so long barren ) h●…d lost all hope to conceive ; whereupon her husband ( either by her advice , or not without her consent , as is thought ) divorceth from her , pretending he had before he married her , lien with a kinswoman of hers , that was so near in bloud , as made his marriage with her incestuous , and so could not be brooked by him with a good conscience . So being divorced , he marries one Beton , daughter to Creigh in Fyfe , who was brother to Beton Archbishop of S. Andrewes . This was a great stop in the Earle of Lennox his hopes , chiefly concerning the Earledome of Arran , for as touching the Crown , the report went , that the King would entaile that to him , out of his own favour . Neither was his hope of Arran quite given over , if the divorcement could afterward be quarrelled either in substance , or formality , which Lawyers might readily do in a subject of this nature , which is so full of questions and doubts . These things wrought jealousie , that contrariety , and alienation of mindes , which soone begat hostility and hatred . The diversity of faction increased it , and it bred and increased the faction . The King held firm for Lennox , or was held firm by him , and sent him many private Letters to many of the Nobilitie , with whom he dealt , and drew a great faction . In which being very confident , he assembled them at Stirlin , where was Arch-bishop Beton , and divers other Bishops . There he propounded in plain terms , the setting of the King at liberty ; which they decreed and appointed a day for the performance and execution thereof . Angus so soon as he had found the winde thereof , and had begun to smell it out , had written to the Earle of Arran to come to Lithgow , where they might meet , and take such order as was needfull . Arran was not slow , but gathered his Forces quickly , and kept the appointment . Lennox hearing of it , resolved ( though the day were not yet come that was appointed for his associats to conveen at Stirlin ) to adventure to set upon the Hamiltons , before Angus ( who was at Edinburgh ) should joyne with them , with such power as he had ready about him . The Hamiltons having notice of Lennox his intention , advertised the Earle of Angus thereof . Angus made ●…eady , and addressed himself for the journey , but he got many letts and impediments . The King also did hinder and stay him not a little , for he lay long a bed , pretending indisposition and sickishnesse , he marched slowly , and stayed often , and made many halts by the way , as being weary , and troubled with loosenesse of his belly , which moved him often to untrusse , which he did onely for an excuse of purpose to stay them . Angus perceiving it , and fearing lest he should come too late , left his brother Sir George , and some few with him to attend the King , made all the haste he could to joyn with Arran in time . In this mean while , Lennox was come from Stirlin straight to Linlithgow ; and the Hamiltons issuing out of the Town , had manned the Bridge , which is a mile from the Town ; and the rest had put themselves in order of battell along some small hils not farre from the Bridge . This forced Lennox to forsake the passing of the River by the Bridge , and to crosse the water at a foord a little above , near to the Abbey of Machlein . He exhorted his men to assaile the Hamiltons , before Angus should come to assist them : and they made haste , but by too much haste they broke their ranks , and having the little hils to climbe up , they were out of winde when they came to strokes , and withall the cry arose that Angus did approach . So the Hamiltons assailing them with long Weapons from a ground of advantage , and the Douglasses also coming upon them on the other hand , Lennox his men were over-thrown , being sore wounded . This was done ere Sir George Douglas could come to them , who desired greatly to be with his brother , but was held back by the Kings pretences . It is constantly reported , that Sir George seeing the King linger thus , and knowing that he did it of purpose , said to him in great fury , It is as much as our lives are worthy , if our enemies get you from us to day ; which , rather than they shall do , we will hold fast one half of you , and let them pull away the other . These words the King never forgot , nor forgave ; neither would ever hear of pardoning him ; when he seemed not to be implacable towards the rest . When the King could not stay Augus any longer from going to aide the Hamiltons , he sent Andrew Wood of Largoe to have saved Lennox life by all means . But he was slain in the chace by the Earle of Arrans base son James Hamilton , who used the victory cruelly , and whom afterwards a Groom of Lennox wounded almost to death , having stabbed him in five or six places , in revenge of his Lords death . He was lamented of his uncle Arran with many tears ; by Angus with sorrow and sadnesse of heart ; but above all , the King took his death ill , seeing his care to save him not to have succeeded . It is said that when he was coming from Stirlin , Arran sent to him , and prayed him not to come forward , but to stay , otherwise that he would force him to fight him , which he desired not to do . To which Lennox answered ; That he would not stay , but would go and see the King maugre him , and all that would take his part . But his purpose was directly to fight the Hamiltons , and not to go to the King ; for he could not go to him , and leave them strong behinde him , having the Douglasses before him . There were slain with him the Laird of Howstoun , and the Master of Glencarne was sore wounded , and hardly saved by the Earle of Angus , whose Cousin he was ( brother and sisters children ) as is said above . After the Battell , those that had born arms against the King were enquired after , and summoned to compeere in judgement ; but some of them compounded for money , some became dependers to the house of Angus , some to the Earle of Arran . The obstinate were pursued by Law , such as the Earle of Cassils , who alledged for himself , that he had the Kings Letter to show for his warrant , to do what he had done ; whereupon they desisted from further processe against him ; which I see no ground why they should have done upon a private Letter ; and as little reason is there why they could not charge him with the hurting or slaying of some man , seeing he was in the Battel . It should seem they would not have been so malicious , & vehement against men , as our writers give out ; or not so pregnant in the inventing of crimes and quarrells , as men are now a dayes . Cassills was slain by the Sheriffe of Aire his friends ( a little after ) at the instigation of Arrans bastard , who had killed Lennox at Linlithgow , because he stood to justifie himself , and refused to become a depender of the house of Arran . His son betook himself to the protection of the Douglasses , came to Archbald Douglas of Kilspindie ( who was then Thesaurer to the King ) and was kindely received by him , and lovingly entreated , as one who for his noble birth and towardlinesse he intended to make his son-in-law . Now the Earle of Angus knowing well that Archbishop Beton was one of the chief stirrers up of the Earle of Lennox in this enterprise against him , remembring also how he had before stirred up Arran in the same manner , and his assisting of him at Edinburgh , and many other times , goes now to S. Andrews , takes the Castle by force , and pillageth it , but could not apprehend the Fox himself , who fled from hole to hole , and linked secretly amongst his friends . The Queen also ( lest she should come into her husbands hands ) kept her self hid and solitarie . These escaped their search . After this he went to the Border , where he caused the principall of every Name to give pledges and hostages for their good behaviour , and keeping of good order . And first he went into Liddisdale with an army , where they came and yeelded themselves to him ; and the rest of the Borderers followed their example . And now had the Earle of Angus settled all things , in all appearance . His enemies were overcome on the East hand at Melrosse ; on the West at Lithgow ; the Earle of Lennox was dead , and his Faction dispersed and broken , the Queens authoritie dashed , and Bishop Beton beaten out of the cock-pit , both put to save themselves by hiding , all-husht , and under hatches ; no partie , no faction , no men to make head against him . An estate highly esteemed , greatly affected , and mueh sought for by men . But as in our bodies , fulnesse of health hath the own danger , so in our estates , too great prosperitie and ease are the fore-runners of change , which ( as experience doth teach ) is even then at the doores when there is least appearance otherwise . It fell out just so now while the Douglasses were thus secure of all danger , knowing too well , and leaning too much to their own strength , no partie to take the King from them , no place strong enough to keep him in when he were taken , nor to keep them out , no meanes to effect either the one or the other , and threupon grew slothfull in attending him , are often abroad about their businesse , he findes first the place , then the means to escape , then the party to maintaine it , and at last to over-throw them . The Queen ( his mother ) had the Castle of Stirlin as a part of her dowrie , which , while she ( for fear of the Douglasses ) hides her self , was left emptie and waste , and yet not seized on by them , who were neither so greedie , as men would have them to appear , by so much ; neither so circumspect as wise men should have been , to secure themselves , knowing the fitnesse of the place for such a purpose , the disposition of the owner , and the inclination of the King toward themselves . Now her fear being somewhat abated , and the coasts being clear of them , the Queens servants returned thither , and furnished it more for show , than sufficient resistance of any Force . The King making ( wisely ) choice of it , knowing there was no other place so strong , pretending the conveniencie of hunting ( even to her ) transacts secretly with her , and gives her Methwen in exchange for it , with other Lands about Methwen , no lesse convenient and profitable for her . And so he had gotten his first point , a place of retreat . The meanes how to retire , were easie , which was the next . He was in Falkland , which was not far from Stirlin , in a countrey not subject to the Douglasses , nor near their forces and power . Angus , and Sir George his brother , are both absent about affairs of the Countrey , and none of theirs we hear of , that were to attend the King , or few and negligent they were , as men are wont when they are secure . So he goeth from Falkland , to Stirlin in the night , with a few of his familiar servants , as secretly as he could . Having gained these two points of them by their errour , there rested the third ( without which these errours had been no errours to them , nor advantage to him , they had been of no effect nor importance ) that was a partie to maintain the retreat . This is the main point , and their main errour , the cause , and the ground of the other two errours , that made them slothfull in seizing that house , in attending the King , because they laid their ground , there could be no partie in Scotland . And Buchanan writes concerning the Earle Bothwels refusall to be Lieutenant against them , that he saw them a little before to be such , as all the rest of Scotland were not able to match them . But they took not heed , nor considered , that then the King was with them . However his minde was against them , he was in their custodie and power , and if any had been ill-affected to them , he could be no warrant to any Faction , having no assurance of his life , which was at their disposing , and therefore he could not be a Head to any : These considerations being of no small consequence , as the event now proves : for he is no sooner gone from them , than he findes a partie against them , now that he could be a Head to a partie . He writes for many of the Nobilitie , they come all to him : others upon the first news of his retiring , came without staying till they were sent for . So that he quickly found himself free , and out of danger to be forced . Then by their advice he causeth make a Proclamation , that the Douglasses abstaine from all administration , and handling of publick affairs , and that none of them , or their dependers , come within twelve miles of the King , under pain of death . This Edict being brought to them , as they were on their way toward Stirlin , many of their friends advised them to go forward , but the Earle himself , and Sir George , resolved to obey , and perswaded the rest to do so . A dutifull and wise resolution , if there was not sufficient power with them to go forward , which others that counselled them to go on , have thought sufficient : And if withall they had resolved to lay down their necks under the yoke , and beare whatsoever should be laid upon them . But that they did not resolve to do , as appeareth afterward , therefore they lost here also the occasion which might have procured them peace on better and more equall termes . They returned to Linlithgow to remain there till they should hear farther from Court. This their retiring , and not going forward to Stirlin , is such an over-sight , as a man could scarce have looked for at so wise and resolute heads and hands . But where ruine is determined , wisedome is taken from the wisest , and hearts from the hardiest . They will disobey more out of time hereafter . The King makes use of that respit of time , assembleth more and more Forces , summonds a Parliament in September . They go to Edinburgh , and assemble also their friends more fully . Both parties aimed more at their own security , and to defend themselves , than to offend the other , yet they give place again , and the second of August leave the City , which day the King entred with displayed banner : from thence ( by entreatie of friends ) he sent conditions to them , which if they would obey , there was some hope showne of clemencie and gentle dealing towards them . These were , That the Earle of Angus himself should be confined beyond Spey , and his brother Sir George , together with his uncle Archbald of Kilspindie , should go to prison to the Castle of Edinburgh . But they rejected the conditions , and thereupon were summoned to compeare at the Parliament in Edinburgh the sixth of September . In the mean while their Offices are taken from them , the Chancellorship from the Ear●… , which we hear not when it was given to him . Archbishop Beton had been Chancellour in the Governours time , he had consented to the Triumvirate , and afterward had left and forsaken them . Then , hath it been taken from Beton ( as far as we can conjecture ) and given to Angus . It was now given to Gawin Dumbar the Kings Pedagogue in law matters , one who was no ill man , but who was thought to be a greater Schollar , than wise and prudent for government . The Thesaurers place was taken from Kilspindie , and given to Robert Carnecrosse , a man better knowne by his bags of money , than for his vertues . Thus driven to their last hopes , they labour to hinder the meeting of the Parliament , by taking of Edinburgh where it was to sit , and from whence the King was returned to Stirlin . For this end they send Archbald of Kilspindie , with some troops of horse , to assay what he could do . A poor shift , if they had gotten it . But the King had prevented them , and sent thither Robert Maxwell , who with his friends and dependers , assisted by a great number of the Commons , excluded them , and with watch and ward kept the town till the Kings return . Hereupon Angus retired to his house at Tantallon . The day of the Parliament being come , they were cited , accused , condemned , and forfeited ; the Earle , Sir George , Kilspindie , and Drummond of Carnock . The main cause , and clearest evidence given in against them , was , that the King swore he was ever in fear of his life , so long as he vvas vvith them . It is strange that his feare should have seemed a sufficient cause and evidence of forfeiture . Their absence was no cause , for they were prohibited to come vvithin 12. miles of the K. & they had forgotten to release them from that command & interdiction . Sir John Ballandine , who was then one of their dependers , & afterward Justice-Clerk , knew it well , and did freely and courageously protest in open audience , that nothing done there should be hurtfull , or prejudicial to the Earle , because he had just cause of fear , & so of his absence , which should be declared in the own time ; which was both an honest part toward his patron , and a wise and stout part in it self . Upon this protestation the forfeiture was reduced seventeen years after this . But for the present it goeth on , and an act was also made against such as should receive them , that they should be liable to the same punishment of forfeiture . Soon after this , William , Abbot of Halyroodhouse ( Angus his brother ) died through sicknesse which he had contracted by grief and sorrow for their estate . The rest , seeing no appearance of pardon , make now for open violence . Who can think but it was as unfit now , as fit to have used it when they stayed from going to Stirlin ? But then they have had hope of more favour , which hath marred all their course . Better late wise than never , time was driven , but they counted it not lost , because by their so long patience they had given proof of their goodwill ; now they will shew their enemies what power they had then ; and that it was willingnesse , not weaknesse , made them to forbeare doing more than they did . They burn Cowsland , and Cranston , and daily rode about Edinburgh in view of the City , so that it was in a manner besieged , the mean sort suffering for the faults of the great ones . By this their proceeding , the theeves and broken men of the borders , and elsewhere ( whom they had before restrained in their government ) loosed from all fear of them , waxed bold to come out of their lurking places , and greatly molested the Countrey people about them . Many outrages were committed by many , in many places ; oppression , theft , murders , and robberies . All was imputed to the Douglasses , and called their doing by the Courtiers , thinking thereby to please the King well . There was a Ship ( called the Martin ) which being loaden with rich Ware , brake about the Skate-raw , and the common people came and took away the goods from the owners ; this was laid also upon them , and their faction and followers , though nothing of it came to their use , unlesse it were that some of their stragling horsemen , happening to be there at that time , might perhaps get their share with others . About this time the King resolves to besiege Tantallon Castle in Lowthian , some sixteen miles from Edinburgh , and for that purpose causes bring Ordinance , Powder and Bullet from Dumbar , which was then kept by the servants of the late Governour the Duke of Albanie , as a portion of his patrimony . There was in Tantallon one Simeon Penangoe , with a competent number of men , well furnished and provided both of Victuals and Munition . The Earle himself remained at Billie in the Merse ; within his Baronie of Bonkle , not willing to shut himself up within the Wals of any strength , having ever in his mouth this maxime ( which he had received from his Predecessours ) That it was better to hear the Lark sing , than the Mouse cheep . The Castle was well defended for certain dayes , none hurt within ; many without were wounded with shot from the Castle , and some burnt and scalded with their own Powder , which took fire unawates , and divers killed . The besiegers were troubled without by the horsemen , who assaulted them daily at their trenches , so that seeing no hope of carrying it , they raised their siege , and retired . In their retreat they were set upon in the Reare by Angus his horsemen ; and one David Falconer ( a principall Cannonier ) slain with some other hired Musketiers , and two of the Cannons cloyed . This the K. took so highly ( esteeming it an affront and scorn put upon him ) that he swore openly , that so long as he lived , the Douglasses should never be received into favour . He was then young , and in his hot bloud , and saw not their worth , or at least looked upon it through the prospective of an angry passion ; but before he died , he saw it more setledly and clearly , and that their service was more steadable than all theirs that were now about him . Being come to Edinburgh , he adviseth what was next to be done . It was thought fit to keep a company at Coldingham , which needed not to be very great , but onely to lye there constantly , to preserve and protect the common people from their incursions . But that was to Bell the Cat ; a good designe , but difficult to prosecute . Billie ( where Angus made his residence ) is within five miles of Coldingham , and all the Countrey about did favour him ; yea , some in that same Town it self did bear him good will. The task to execute this conclusion , was laid upon the Earle Bothwell , who was the most powerfull man in Lowthian . He refuses it absolutely , as that which he was not able to perform . So is the King driven to think of another . The Earle of Arran was the greatest in power and friendship ; but he had slain the Earle of Lennox at Linlithgow , and was in societie with the Douglasses . He doubts with what zeal or fidelity he would prosecute the businesse . Argyle was in great account , for warrelike and politick wisedome ; But he lay farre off , in the North-West parts of the Kingdome . There is no remedie , he must be the man ; he is made Lieutenant , and ( as our Writers say ) by the Lord Humes assistance drove Angus out of Scotland . But all our ancient men , who lived in those dayes , and were present at those doings , and actors in them , say the contrary , That he did no good , but came to Dumbar , and some of his companies going before , were set upon at the Peeths , and three or fourscore of them slain . Hereupon was made this rime in derision , beginning thus : The Earle of Argyle is bound to ride From the border of Edge-bucklin bray , And all his Habergeons him beside , Each man upon a sonke of Stray , They made their vow that they would slay , &c. Neither did the Lord Hume take any particular dealing against him ; neither did he leave Scotland , being compelled thereto by force ( as our traditioners say ) but upon the King of Englands desire , who wished him so farre to obey and yeeld to his Prince . He also caused him to render Tantallon up to the King. What warrand the King of England had , and what promises by word ( for it stood not with his honour to give any thing in writ , that his clemency might be free and voluntary , and not by capitulation ) our History doth rather glance at it , than expresse it in these words . That the Castle of Tantallon being rendred , the King should under his hand-writing assure them of the rest of their petitions . Yet the Castle being rendred , the rest were not ( for all that ) sincerely kept . What he speaks of the rendering of the Castle , our old men ( acquainted with these mysteries ) speak also of the Earles leaving Scotland ; That both were done upon these promises . They tell also what the promises were , that they should be received again ; pardoned , and get their peace the Kings honour being once thus salved by his going out of the Countrey , and rendering of the Castle ) within such a space as was agreed on . Our Histories also signifie no lesse by the exception which it makes in this : The rest ( sayes he ) were not sincerely kept , except that favour was granted to Alexander Drumond to return , &c. Then his return hath been one of the conditions , seeing it is accepted as one of them that were performed . Neither hath the condition been that he alone should return , but that they should be brought home all of them . He signifies also , that Drumonds return was not permitted out of any respect to the promise , but at the request of Robert Bartaine . So that the exception is no exception ; and so nothing hath been keeped . But the King of England ( to whom the promise was made ) was not at this time disposed to exact the performance of it , and to back his exacting of it with 40000. men , as Princes promises should be urged . Men say he had other work in hand , and businesse of his own to request for ; which was to desire his Nephew James to be quiet , and not to trouble his Kingdome while he made Warre against the Emperour Charles . Yet afterward in the year 1532. he sought it directly amongst the conditions of peace , that the Douglas ( according to his promise ) should be restored . For King Henries own part he entertained them with all kinde of beneficence and honour , and made both the Earle and Sir George of his privie Councell . The Kings anger still continued against them in such sort , that nine years after , in 1537. he was contented that Jeane Douglas Lady Glames ( who was Angus sister ) should be accused by false witnesses , condemned and execute . The point of her accusation was , that she , and her husband ( Archbald Campbell then ) and her sonne and an old Priest , had gone about to make away the King by Witch-craft . Their servants were tried and racked , but confessed nothing , the accuser John Lion ( a Kinsman of her first husband ) when he saw how they were like to be used , and that the house of Glames would be ruined ; repenting of what he had done , confessed to the King that he had wronged them ; but it did no good . She was burnt upon the Castle hill with great commiseration of the people , in regard of her noble bloud , of her husband , being in the prime of her years , of a singular beauty , and suffering all , though a woman , with a man-like courage , all men conceiving that it was not this fact , but the hatred the King carried to her brothers , that had brought her to this end . Her husband seeking to escape over the wall of the Castle , fell , and broke his leg , and so died . Her sonne was kept in prison , because he was so young that the law could not strike against him . Others were committed to Ward , as Sir George Hume of Wedderburne ( who was Angus his sisters son ) to the Black-Nesse , for whom his mother Dame Alison Douglas coming often to entreat the King for him , though he alwayes used her courteously , and gave her good countenance ( and that almost onely to her of all their friends ) so that his language was by way of excusing without deniall , yet she could obtain nothing till a little before his death about the rode of Fawla , when hee began to misse their service , then he set him at libertie . His implacabilitie did also appear in his carriage toward Archbald of Kilspindie , whom he ( when he was a childe ) loved singularly well for his ability of body , and was wont to call him his Gray Steell . Archbald being banished into England , could not well comport with the humour of that Nation , which he thought to be too proud , and that they had too high a conceit of themselves , joyned with a contempt and despising of all others . Wherefore being wearied of that life , and remembring the Kings favour of old toward him , he determined to trie the Kings mercifulnesse and clemency . So he comes into Scotland , and taking occasion of the Kings hunting in the Park at Stirlin , he casts himself to be in his way , as he was comming home to the Castle . So soon as the King saw him afar off , ere he came near , he ghessed it was he , and said to one of his Courtiers , yonder is my Gray Steell , Archbald of Kilspindie , if he be alive . The other answered , that it could not be he , and that he durst not come into the Kings presence . The King approaching , he fell upon his knees , and craved pardon , and promised from thence forward to abstain from all meddling in publick affairs , and to lead a quiet and a private life . The King went by without giving him any answer , and trotted a good round pace up the hill . Kilspindie followed , and ( though he wore on him a Secret , or shirt of Maile for his particular enemies ) was as soon at the Castle gate as the King. There he sat him down upon a stone without , and entreated some of the Kings servants for a cup of drink , being wearie and thirstie : but they fearing the Kings displeasure , durst give him none . When the K. was sat at his dinner , he asked what he had done , what he had said , and whither he was gone ? It was told him , that he had desired a cup of drink , and had gotten none . The King reproved them very sharply for their discourtesie , and told them , that if he had not taken an oath , that no Douglas should ever serve him , he would have received him into his service , for he had seen him sometime a man of great abilitie . Then he sent him word to go to Leith , and expect his farther pleasure . Then some kinsman of David Falconer ( the Cannonier that was slain at Tantallon ) began to quarell with Archbald about the matter , wherewith the King shewed himself not well pleased when he heard of it . Then he commanded him to go to France for a certain space , till he heard farther from him . And so he did , and died shortly after . This gave occasion to the King of England ( Henry the 8. ) to blame his Nephew , alledging the old saying , That a Kings face should give grace . For this Archbald ( whatsoever were Anguses or Sir George his fault ) had not been principall actor of any thing , nor no counsellour or stirrer up , but onely a follower of his friends , and that no wayes cruelly disposed . He caused also execute Sir James Hamilton of Evendale , for divers reasons : but that which incensed him most , was his correspondencie , and secret trafficking and meeting with the banished Douglasses , especially with Sir George , whom he met with in the Park-head , as the King was informed . There was no man that he could hear had but received them into his house , but he caused apprehend , and execute the rigour of the law upon them . He caused the Laird of Blackader bring in John Nisbet of the Spittell , and made him to be executed to death , for receiving ( as was alledged at least ) the Earle of Angus into his house . These many executions proceeding from many reports and delations given to him , bred great suspition in his minde , all the woods seemed full of theeves . Many were put to death for the Douglasses ; this was a token that they had many favourers : many were offended by these executions , and so many ill-willers by being offended . So his suspition against the Nobilitie was daily increased , his jealousie growes , cares multiply , his minde is disturbed , which would not suffer him to sleep sound , but troubled his head with dreames and fansies . In the mean time the Warres began with England by mutuall incursions on the Borders . The King sent George Gordon Earle of Huntley to the Border to represse the English. But they seeing his Forces so small , came forward to have burnt Jedburgh . The Lord Hume hearing of their intention , went and lay in their way . The Earle of Angus had been sent down to the Border by the K. of England , to wait for occasion to do something against Scotland , and was now with these English here . Hee disswaded them from fighting , and told them , that the Lord Hume would not flee , nor his men leave him , and that they would all die at his feet . But they would needs fight , and were overthrowne . The Earle of Angus himself was almost taken , for he was caught about the neck , and rid himself again with his dagger , and so escaped . There were some slaine , more taken , all scattered and chased . The King was so glad hereof , that he gave the lands of the Hirsell to Sir Andrew Ker of Little-dean for bringing the first newes hereof : but he that was the chief actor the Lord Hume got nothing . This was at Halden rig . Then was the rode of Fawla , where the Nobilitie did flatly refuse to fight , and suffered the English to retire , and escape without battell or skirmish . The King being there in person , was so enraged hereat , that he burst forth into open railing against them , calling them cowards , and beasts that were not worthy of their places or Predecessours ; and withall told them , that he should bring home those that durst and would fight , meaning the Earle of Angus and his friends . Then followed on the neck of this the defeat at Solemne-Mosse , where Oliver Sinclar being deserted by the Nobility , was fain to flie , and so lost the day , and many were taken prisoners ; many also yeelded themselves to the English. The King , who was not farre off , when he heard of it , was wonderfully commoved , having his minde distracted with indignation , anger , grief and sorrow ; now thinking how to be avenged on them that had dealt thus traiterously with him ; then of new preparation for the Warres , & how it should be managed . For which he saw now there was but one way left , which was to bring home the Earle of Angus , upon what ever terms ; seeing at last what a subject he had thrust from him , and repenting him , said he should bring him home , that would take order with them also . But it was too late , for his death ensuing shortly after , hindered the execution of that purpose . He died the thirteenth of December 1542. leaving one onely daughter Mary his heir behinde him , a childe of five dayes old . But although he lived not to effect his determination , yet he gave them an honourable testimony of their worth , and withall made a confession of the wrong he had done to them , and gave them a clear absolviture from all former imputation . And so for their part they rest satisfied with it , and seek no other . The King was dead , who had purposed to have brought them home , his will is enough to them ; they stand not on ceremonies , they come home now unsent for . There were taken prisoners at the Solom-Mosse , seven Earles and Lords , foure and twenty others of inferiour , but good place and quality . When King Henry of England had triumphed a while over them ( causing to lead them from the Towre of London to Court through Cheapside Street the 20. of December upon Saint Thomas day ) he rebuked them as breakers of Covenant by a long harangue of his Chancellour ; who magnified the Kings mercy , who did ( said he ) remit much of the rigour he might justly have used against them . After this they had some more freedome ; and when the news of the Kings death was come , he dealt kindly with them , and told them his intention ; which was to have their Kings daughter married to his sonne Prince Edward , that so the Nations of England and Scotland might be joyned together by that alliance ; for affecting of which match he takes their promise to favour his designe , and to set it forward at home as farre as they might without dammage to their Countrey , or reproach and infamy to themselves . So ( having first taken pledges and hostages of them at New-Castle , by the Duke of North-folke , for their return , in case the peace were not agreed on ) he sent them home to Scotland the first of January 1543. with these returned our Douglasses ( the Earle and Sir George ) after fifteen years exile , and were received of all with great joy and gratulation . Onely they were not welcome to the Cardinall . They had been ever at variance , they ranne divers courses in policie , he suspected their Religion , specially Sir Georges . He knew they would not approve nor ratifie the Kings testament which he had forged , wherein he was made Protectour and Governour , with three Noblemen to be his Assessours . He doubted not , but that they would oppose him in the Parliament ; and therefore here he found means to be chosen Governor before their return . Yet his fraud was detected before they came home , and he debouted , and put from that authority . In his place James Hamilton Earle of Arran was chosen , as being the man to whom it properly belonged , as next heire , and best beloved , partly because they had a good opinion of his towardly disposition , and that he was not averse from the reformed Religion ( whereof he willingly read the controversies ) partly because they hated the Archbishop Beton and his priests crueltie , which put every man in fear of their government . That businesse was settled ere they came home . The next point was the marriage of the young Queen , which they were to set forward with England . The Queen mother , and the Cardinall , and the whole faction of the Priests , oppose this way with all their might and power . But they prevailed not , and the Cardinall because he troubled all , and would suffer nothing to be done orderly , he was shut up in a Chamber till the matters were concluded , and pledges promised to bee given to the English Ambassadour Sir Ralphe Sadler for performance . Ambassadours also were sent into England to treat on the conditions . They were , the Earle of Glencarne , Sir George Douglas , Sir William Hamilton of Machane , and the Secretarie of estate . These remained foure moneths in England , agreed at last , and concluded all articles and conditions . But in their absence , the Cardinall was set at liberty , who troubled all , gathered a contribution of the Clergie , and what by bribing , what by other practices used by him , and the Queen , turns the Nobilitie quite an other way . When those that had been sent into England were returned , and found things in this estate , they were much grieved at it , and laboured to recall things , and to perswade them to keep their promise made to King Henry . To move them hereto , Sir George Douglas spake to them very earnestly , and told them the apologue of the asse , which a King did love so dearly , that he had a great minde and desire to have her to speak : and having dealt with divers Physicians to make her to speak , they told him it was a thing impossible , and gainst nature ; but he being impatient , and not enduring to have his desire crossed , slew them because they told him the truth . At last he trying about what others could doe , one , who was made wise by their example , being required to do it , he undertook it , but withall he shew him , that it was a great work , and would be very chargeable . The King being set upon it to have it done , told him he should have what allowance he pleased , and bade him spare for no charges : and that besides he would reward him liberally . The Physician told him that it would prove also a long cure , and could not be done in a day ; ten years were the fewest that could be allotted to it . The King considered of it , and was contented to allow him that time for performing it ; and so they agreed , and the Physician began to fall to work about his asse . His friends hearing of it , came to him , and asked him what he meant , to take in hand that which could not be performed in nature . He smiled , and said unto them , I thought you had been wiser than to ask me such a question : if I had ( sayes he ) refused to take it in hand , he had put me to death presently , now I have gained ten years time , before which be expired , who can tell what may happen . The King may die , the asse may die , I my self may die ; and if any of these happen , I am freed . In the mean time I shall be in good estate , wealth , honour , and the Kings favour . Even so ( sayes Sir George ) stands the case with us at this time : if wee refuse and leap back from the conditions that are propounded and agreed on , wee enter into present Warre , for which we are very unfit , and ill provided . If we embrace them , we gain time , we shall enjoy peace and quietnesse during the Queens childe-hood , and before that be expired , Prince Edward may die , our Queen may die , King Henry may die , or the parties when they come to age , may refuse one another , or then perhaps ( as things may fall out ) it may be thought the best way by us all . But he could not perswade them to it , the Queen mother , and the Cardinall , the Popish and Politick Faction standing for France , and drawing all to that end , had so wrought the matter , that there was no place left to any wholesome councell . These two for strengthening of their party had sent to France , and moved that King to send home Matthew Earle of Lennox a competitour and counterpoyse to the house of Hamilton . He came , being put in hope of the Queens marriage , and to be made Governour , but when he saw himself deluded , and Beton preferred to the government , in effect upon agreement of Arran , and the Cardinall ( wherein Arran had renounced the controverted heads of Religion , and addicted himself fully to the Queen and Cardinall , to be ruled by them ) he forsook them , and so did also the Governours chief friends leave him , and turne to Lennox : And now Lennox had made a strong party against the Governour and the Cardinall , but at last he was drawn to come to a Parley with them , first at Edinburgh , and then at Linlithgow , where finding that they intended to intrap him , he fled in the night , first to Glasgow , then to the Castle of Dumbartan . About this time the Hamiltons and Douglasses were reconciled : and for further assurance of sincere and firm friendship , Sir George Douglas , and Alexander Cunninghame Master of Glencarne , were given as pledges ( the one for his brother , and the other for his father ) to the Governour Hamilton , upon promise to be released within a few dayes , but they were kept till the English Army came . Angus himself also , and the Lord Maxwell going to mediate a peace betwixt the Governour and Lennox ( a dutifull part of a Nobleman , and of a good Patriot ) was retained ; and both sent out at a back-door at Glasgow , to Hamilton , while their followers did wait for them at the ordinary fore-gate of the Governours lodging . Angus was sent afterward to the Black-Nesse , and kept there a close prisoner . Thus were both he and his brother in the hands of their enemies : neither did their wisedome or experience , the examples of their Predecessours , or their own maximes and rules save them from being intrapped . But who can keep himself from deceit : What wisedome was ever able to do it ? we heard before in the Lord Hume ( Chamberlain ) how he was catched ; and therefore no wonder , though the young Douglasses ( put to death in Edinburgh Castle ) were deceived . It is wrong to impute it to want of fore-sight , as these two ( who were at other times wary enough ) may witnesse . They may thank God more than their own good guiding , if they escape with life ; but that God doth worke it out , where their wisedome failed . He sends in the English Navie , which was bound for Boloigne , under the command of the Earle of Hartford . Some sayes that they were so directed by King Henry to relieve the Earl and his brother ; some , that it was to revenge the rejecting of his affinitie . However it was the mean and occasion of their releasing . For having landed at Leith unlooked for , the Governour and Cardinall were forced to flee out of Edinburgh , which they burnt , being abandoned by them , and the Citizens being most of them absent about their Traffick . The Governour , either required to do so by the Earle of Hartford ( who threatned to destroy more of the Countrey after the same manner if he refused ) or of his own motion , so to regain their favour , and service of their followers , set them all at liberty , Angus , Maxwell , Glencarne , and Sir George . Their wisedome saved them not from being catched , but their worth releaseth them , either in the judgement of King Henry ( if it were his request ) or in the estimation of their enemies , if it came meerely of themselves , who saw how steadable , yea how necessary their favour was to them . That which had brought them home , if King James had lived , procures their liberty from this Governour now when the King is dead . Envie committed them , true valour brings them out of prison . So it is seen ere long : for Lennox being forsaken by the French , and his partners overthrowne by the Hamiltons , he fled into England , and was well received and entertained by King Henry , who gave him also his sisters daughter by the Earle of Angus , Lady Margaret Douglas to wife . On her he begate Henry Lord Darneley , who was married to Queen Mary of Scotland . He sought to have married the Queen Dowager , he is rejected ; but he fares better , and comes to reigne in both the Realmes by his Posteritie . Let men look on it , and see the deepnesse of providence , and learne not to distrust in whatsoever strait , seeing the worst doth often occasion the best ; for even in exile being condemned and forfeited , he was laying the foundation of this returne . Of these dissentions at home , the Forrein enemie takes advantage , the K. of England sends an Armie to Scotland , burnes Jedburgh , and Kelso , takes Coldinghame , and fortifies the Abbay and steeple thereof . Thither goes the Governour Hamilton with 8000. men in winter , and batters the steeple one whole day and night , all the Company standing all that while in Armes . The next day he took horse , and went to Dumbar with all the speed he could , accompanied onely with a few of his most familiar friends , without acquainting the Nobilitie or Armie with his departure . What it was that moved him hereto , is uncertain , whether it were some rumour of the enemies approaching , or that he feared lest his own Armie ( whom he had offended many wayes ) should have delivered him into the hands of the English. This troubled them all so much the more , because they knew not the reason of it . Wherefore they began to advise what was next to be done : Some thought it best that every man should go whither he would , and leave the Ordnance a prey to the enemie . Others thought it was better to charge them double , and so to break them , that they might not be usefull to the enemie . Thus is the case brought to an exigent , this is the place for the Earle of Angus to shew himself to be a Douglas of the right stamp . So he doth ; he rejects both these wayes as dishonourable , and exhorts them , that they would not adde this grosse errour in Warre to their shamefull flight . But when he could not perswade them either by reason or authoritie , he cryes out aloud , that they might all hear , For my part ( saith he ) I had rather die honourably , than live with shame , though with never so much riches and ease . Ye that are my friends and companions in armes , do what you think best , but I shall either bring home this Ordnance , or shall not bring home my self alive , and one and the same day shall end both my life and my honour . Having spoken thus , he commanded them to go on with the Ordnance , and he with his Companie , and some few moe that stayed with him for shame , marched after , to keep off the English that pursued them , and so brought them safely to Dumbar . Then turning him to the Master of the Ordnance , Take them there to thee ( saith he ) better thus , than either broken , or left behinde . A sober and gentle reproof to those that had abandoned him , yet such as might put them in minde of their fault . The honour was his , but the fault ( more observed oftentimes ) redounded to the discouraging of the Countrey , and emboldening of the English , which gave new occasion of stirring up in him the ancient vertues proper to the name , valour , and love of his Countrey . Sir Ralph Ivers , and Sir Brian Laiton , had made divers in-rodes into Scotland , in the Merse , Tividale , and Lawderdale , with good successe , finding no man to oppose or make head against them . The Inhabitants of those places , had for the most part yeelded , and taken on the badge of England , the red Crosse , or at least kept themselves in strong places in safetie from the enemie . They esteemed all conquered , and for that which rested , they made account to conquer all unto Forth . So to Court they go , and sue to the King for a reward of their service , the inlarging of his Dominions . The Duke of North-folk , who had made warre in Scotland divers times , and knew the fashion of the Countrey , how easie a matter it was to make the Commons ( when they wanted a Head in time of Civill and intestine dissention ) to yeeled to any conditions ; but withall know also , that they would presently cast off the yoke so soon as they found any to lead them into the field , he perswades the King to bestow upon them for their reward , all the Land that they had conquered , and to encourage them to go on , promiseth unto them all the Land that they could conquer more thereafter . They come to the Borders full of hopes , and increase their Forces by the addition of 3000. hired souldiers , with intention to go on with their conquest . This did greatly g●…ieve such Scots as remained true Scots indeed . The flight from Coldingham had discouraged them ; they could look for no good from the Governour . But he who had his Rose Garland unstained there , must be the man to do the turn here also . Angus had large possessions in the Merse and Tividale : therefore he had his particular interest , and could not so easily leave his lands for a prey to the enemy , nor suffer so great an indignitie in publick , and reproach to his Countrey . Being moved with both these considerations , he goeth to the Governour , and layeth before him the greatnesse of the danger , and how he did suffer in his own reputation for the businesse at Coldingham , and would now suffer more if he sat still and did nothing at this time : Wherefore he exhorteth him to take some course for the safety of the Countrey , and to repair his own honour . The Governour bewailes his own estate and condition , that he was not able to do any thing ; being deserted by the Nobility , whereof he complained heartily . Angus replyed , and told him it was his own fault ; For they ( said he ) would willingly hazzard and bestow both their lives and fortunes for the defence of their Countrey , but you contemn their counsel , and have given your self over to be guided by a company of Priests , who are unfit to go abroad to the Warres , and are seditious at home ; being free from perill themselves , they live on the fruits of other mens labours like Drones ; abusing and spending all upon their own pleasures . From hence doth spring this suspicion and jealousie betwixt you and the Nobilitie , that none of you doth beleeve or trust other , which is the bane of all actions , and hindreth the atchieving of any matter of moment . But if you will apply your self to them , and consult with them , who will not spare to spend their lives in the execution of things ; I do not distrust but as honourable acts may be performed by us now , as have been done at any time by our Predecessours . But if by sloth and negligence ye suffer the enemy thus to encroach by piece-meal , he will at last force us either to yeeld to him , or forsake the Countrey : of which two it is hard to say which is the most miserable and shamefull condition . As for us two , I know we are traduced by our enemies , they accuse me of betraying my Countrey , and you of cowardise , but if you will resolve throughly and soundly to do that now , which you must needs do some time , it shal not be a flourished speech , and painted words , that shall confute their calumnies , but the flourish of Armes , and a Pitched field . The Governour considering the truth , and honourable counsell given him , promised to follow his and the rest of the Nobilities advice . Hereupon Proclamation is made and sent into all the Provinces about , commanding the Nobiltie to repair to the Governour with all the haste they could , wheresoever he should happen to be . There came not above 300. horse , with these they march toward England ; and by the way some few of Lowthian , and some of the Merse joyn with them . So they come to Melrosse upon Tweed , where they intended to stay , and wait for the rest that were coming . The English were come to Jedbrough before , and now being advertised of the small number of the Scottish Army , they march toward Melrosse , having 5000. men in their Army , in great confidence to defeat so small a number as was with the Governour , who besides that they were so few , were also wearied with their journey . The Scots had notice of their coming , and thereupon retire to the next hils , where they might with safety espie what course the enemie would take . The English frustrate of their hope ( which was to have surprized them ) stay about the Town and Abbey of Melrosse , which had been spoyled not long before , to see what more spoil they could light on , untill it were day ; for this was in the night time . As soon as it was day , they began to march back toward Jedbrough , and the Scots ( to whom had now joyned Norman Lesly with 300. Fifemen , and Sir Walter Scot of Balcleugh , with a very few of his domesticks ) encountered them by the way . Both Armies alighted from their horses , and fought on foot . The English confiding in their number , and hoping with a few houres travell , to perchase honour and riches with peaceable and quiet possession of the Lands that were granted to them by their Kings gift , fought very valarously . They had divided their Army into three battels ; and seeing the Scots Grooms ( who rode up the hill with their masters horses , which they had put from them ) they supposing they had been the Scottish Army fleeing , made great haste to overtake them . And so ere they were aware , they were hard upon the Scottish battell , which stood in array in the valley at the foot of the hill unseen till now . At the first encounter their Foreward was beaten back upon the middle , and both together upon the Reer-ward ; so that their Ranks being broken , and all in confusion , they were constrained to flee , and the Scots following hard upon them in grosse , slew them down right without resistance . At night when the Scots were returned from the chace , every man repairing to his Colours , they found but two of their own slain ; & of the enemie ( besides Sir Ralph Ivers , and Brien Laton ) 200. or ( as others say ) 800. amongst whom there were divers Gentlemen of good note and qualitie . There were taken prisoners 1000. or as others 2000. ( with all their baggage which had been left at Melrosse ) of which there were 80. of good birth and qualitie . It was no little furtherance to the victory , the advantage which the Scots had of the Sunne going down , and so beating full in the eyes of the enemy : as also of the Winde that blew the smoak of the Powder on their faces likewise , so that they were blinded two wayes . They had also marched so fast to overtake the Scots , that they were quite out of breath almost ere they came to strokes ; and when they came to them , at the first joyning , the Scots that were on their side fled without fighting . It is said that the Earle of Angus was so resolute and void of feare , that when they were going to joyn battell , he perceiving a Heron flie over their heads , cryed out aloud ; O that I had my white Gose-hawke here , we should all yoke at once . The honour of the victorie was wholly given to him , and the profit came to the Governour . But the more honour that Angus got at home of his own countrey-men , the more hatred he had of the Enemy the English. King Henry blamed him , saying he was ungratefull , and vowed to be avenged of him for it . As if any gratitude could binde a man to betray his Countrey , or any benefite tie him to omit his duty toward it : Angus had never learned such gratitude of his Predecessours , nor could his noble heart stoop to such mercenarinesse . And as for his threatnings , he looked upon them with the same courage and resolution . Is our brother-in-law offended ( sayes he ) that I am a good Scottish man ? Because I have revenged the defacing of the tombes of my Ancestors at Melrosse upon Ralph Ivers ? They were better men than he , and I ought to have done no lesse : And will he take my life for that ? Little knows King Henry the skirts of Kirnetable , I can keep my self there from all his English hoste . The newes of this victory being come to France , the King sent Monsieur de L'orge Earle of Montgomerie into Scotland with 3000. foot , and 500. horse , to assist against England . He gave him also commission to bestow the order of the Cockle ( or S. Michael ) on the Governour , Angus , Huntley , and Argyle , which he did accordingly . De L'orge arrived about the fourth or fifth of July 1545. and moved the Governour to assemble some power of men , about 15000. which were mustered at Hadington . From thence they went to the Borders , and encamped over against Warke , an English Castle upon Tweed . But they did nothing to any purpose . Hereupon the Count Montgomerie returnes into France the rest of that year , and the next following , with a good part of the year 1547. there was nothing done abroad , or at home , save that the Cardinall was busied in causing execute such as were of the reformed Religion , whereupon followed his own tragicall death , and the French Galleyes coming , besieged S. Andrewes Castle , and carried away the authors of the Cardinals slaughter into France . The Earle of Angus hath had no hand in all these broyles ; for he is never mentioned in any of them . Only his naturall son George is said to have gotten the Abbacie of Arbrothe . But then ( if he got it ) he might have been called Abbot , and not Postulat , or Postulant , which implies , that he was ever asking it , but got it not . In the same year 1547. in August , King Henry of England dying , his son Edward ( a childe of some eight or nine years of age ) succeeded , and his Uncle the Earle of Hereford was created Duke of Sommerset , and made Protectour of England . He levied two Armies to come against Scotland , one by sea , another by land , in which he came himself in person , and with him the Earle of Warwick . It contained 18000. men . He pretended for the cause of his coming , the performance of the marriage betwixt the King his Nephew , and the young Queen of Scots , together with the observation of the Articles agreed upon with the Scottish Nobilitie in the Treatie of Peace with King Henry . The Governour was mightily perplexed herewith . He had no forraigne aide , and he distrusted his Countreymen at home . Notwithstanding he causeth it to be proclaimed , that they should assemble themselves to resiste the common enemie . They had their randezvous at Edinburgh , and there came thither to the number of 30000. men . From thence they march to Musclebrugh , which is seated at the mouth of the river of Eske in Lowthian some foure miles from Edinburgh . The English lay at Preston within two miles , and their Fleet sailed along the Coast , still in the view of the Land army , & ready to second or succour it . The Protector looking down from Carberrie Hill , and perceiving the Scottish Army to be greater than he had expected in regard of the civill discord and dissention that was amongst them , called a Councell of Warre , to advise about the Battell ; and in the mean time he sends a Letter to the Governour , to try if things could be taken away without blood . The summe of the Letter was , that he was come to crave the performance of the marriage , and the observance of the conditions agreed unto by the Scots . If they would not yeeld to that , yet if they would but promise not to enter into terms of marriage with any other forrain Prince , nor carry her out of the Countrey till she were come to years of discretion to choose her own husband , they should return in peace , and make satisfaction for any dammage their Army had done . This was very reasonable ; but it should have been treated of before they came from home , and rather by Ambassadours than in the field and camp . It hath never been the cause of their coming with an Army , but rather hope that no head could have been made against them ( in respect of the dissention for Religion and other divisions ) which perswaded them to come : Now the sight of an Army which was a sufficient party for them , had taught them wisedome and moderation in their conditions . If the Governour could also have moderated his hope of victorie , which arose from his confidence in the number of his men , the bargaine had been agreed on , and the businesse had ended without blood . But his councell of Warre ( his base brother the Bishop of S. Andrews , George Durie , Abbot of Dumfermling , Archbald Beton , and Hugh Rigge ) puffed him up with idle hope of a sure victory . So the Letter is supprest , and preparation made for battell . The Armies were thus ordered . The English were divided into three battels ; Whereof Warwick led the Vaunt-guard , together with Sir Francis Brien , who commanded 800. light horsemen which were in the wings . The Protectour himself commanded in the mid battell , having with him Sir Peter Mewtas with 600. Musketiers , and Jamboas a Spaniard with 1000. horse with Carabins . The Reer was conducted by the Lord Dacres , to whom was joyned Sir Richard Manners with 600. light horsemen . The men at Arms , and demilances , were commanded by the Lord Gray . The Scottish Army was also tripartite , of which Angus had the Vaunt-guard ; to whom were joyned Coile , Carrict , and Cunningham , with Stirlin-shire , and Stratherne , to the number of 10000. in all . The like number was with the Governour in the middle Ward , and as many with the Earle Huntley in the Reer . The English had resolved on a fair retreat toward Berwick , thinking it not fit to hazzard a battell upon such disadvantage in the number of men ; and not being able to stay without fighting , for want of vivers , which they could not bring in out of the Countrey by forraging , in regard of the neernesse of the enemy . In the mean time they perceive Angus with the Vantguard coming marching up the hill against them . He made no great haste at the first , knowing they could not stay long , thinking it better to assaile them in their retreat . But the Governour sent him word to advance , and yet for all that he marched but leisurely , till he sent to him again , and commanded him to mend his pace , assuring him that he and Huntley should be hard at his hand to support him . Then he marched so fast that the English beholding them from the hill , beleeved they had been all on horseback . Wherefore the Lord Gray wàs sent with his men at Arms , and demilances , on barbed horses , to stay them , and ( if he could ) to break their Ranks . The Scots were close joyned together ( as their manner is ) and carried long speares , not unlike the Macedonian Phalanx : Angus encourages them , exhorts them to fight manfully , & adviseth them to kill the horses by pricking them in the belly , for they were armed in the Counter . These men ( said he ) shall be our prey if ye do so . They followed his counsell , charged the enemy fiercely , and kept their Ranks so whole and close , that 200. of the English were brought to the ground and killed ; the rest retired to their companies . The Protectour commands the Lord Gray to charge again , but he answered ; that he might as well command him to runne against the walls of Boloigne , for it was as impossible to break through the Scots Ranks , as to break through a Brick-wall . Hereupon the Protectour resolved either to retire , or flee as they could , & called for some Scots in his army , who knew the wayes , to be their guides . One of these was named Thomas Lorraine , a Tenant to the Laird of Red-brayes in the Merse , of whom many have often heard this report . The Earl of Warwick adviseth to try another way ; he causeth Jamboas the Spaniard with his Carabins to set upon them in flanke . Hereupon they , lest they should break their Phalanx , turned softly toward him , from the right ascending of the hill , which way they were in before . The Governour with his mid battell seeing them declining from the straight way which led to the enemy , and which they had been in before , supposed they had fled , and so brake their own Ranks , and fled first themselves . Huntley with his Reer followed the Governours example , and fled likewise . The Vaunt-guard thus destitute of all support was overthrown , and most of them all killed . The English Ships had greatly annoyed the Scots Reer with shot from the Sea , for there was one Galley , and two Pinnaces , that came so near to the Shore , that they reached the enemy with their Ordnance , and Lochinvarre was slain by one of their shots . This the Governour and Huntley alledged for their not coming to succour the Vaunt-guard after the first charge , because their men ( chiefly the High-landers ) refused to go with them being so troubled from the Ships . There were slain in this battell a great number , and those of the Flowre of the Scottish Nobility ; amongst whom were the Masters of Ereskine , Grahame , Methvane , Oglevie , Levingston , and Rosse ; the Lords , Fleming , Glencarne , the Lairds of Lochleven , and Sir George Hume of Wedderburne . The Earle Angus his brother , Sir George , and Glenbarvie were commanded to keep themselves on horseback , and ride about the companies to exhort them and keep them in order . It was so much the more easie for them to flee , yet Glenbarvie was hardly pursued for the space of foure miles , being taken for the Earle of Angus , because he rode on a py-bald horse that was known to be the Earles . Angus himself escaped , and came that night to Calder , very heavie and sorrowfull for the losse of the battell , and of his friends . Many fled to the Castle of Dalkeeth , amongst whom was James Douglas Earle of Morton , afterward Regent of Scotland ; and David Hume of Wedderburne , brother to Sir George Hume that was slain in the field . The Castle was besieged by the English , and defended a while , but wanting provision of victuall for such a number of men as had fled thither , and having no hope of any relief to come to them against a victorious Army , it was rendered , and these fore-named made prisoners . The Earle of Angus complained heavily that he had been thus abandoned by the Governour and Huntley , and laid the blame on them of the losse of the day , and of his so many dear kinsmen ând friends , especially to the Queen-mother ; whom he went to visit at Stirlin . She seemed to be much grieved therewith , but was thought not to be discontented that the Hamiltons had suffered this disgrace , and their pride and authoritie was thus abated , which made for the setting forward of her project , which was to wring the Government out of their hands , and winde in her self into that place ; as also to bring in the Frenchmen , under the pretext that the Countrey was not able to maintain the warre against the English , who had fortified Insh-Keith , Saint Columbs Insh in Forth , Broghtie on Tay , Hadington on Tine ; at Lawder and Roxburgh built Forts , and taken the Castles of Hume , and Fascastle . The French were sent for , and came into Scotland at her request , these places were all regained by their assistance , the young Queen Mary was conveighed into France , to be married to the Daulphine , Francis the second afterward . Then the Queen-Mother dealt with the Governour to demit his place , which he did at last , and she was substitute into it as her daughters Deputie , having Monsieur D'Oselle ( a Frenchman ) for her Counsellour and adviser in all affaires . This was done in a Parliament in the year 1555. the 10. of April . All this while we hear nothing of the Earle of Angus , save at the siege of Hadington , where when the wals were battered and made assaultable by a sufficient breach , the French ( who were there ) refusing to enter the breach , ( because they being far from home , they could not easily repaire their losse of men ) the Earle of Angus moved with indignation hereat , left them , and went to Tantallon to remain there . And again , when Monsieur de Termes besieged Broghtie upon Tay , Angus is said to have been with him , and lying at Breeghen with some horsemen to have skirmished daylie with the enemie . At last both Broghtie , and another Castle near unto it were taken , and almost the whole Garrisons slain that were in them . And now the Queen-Mother being Regent , all her care and endeavour was to bring Scotland into subjection of the French. For this purpose a motion was made , that all men should be taxed proportionably , according to their meanes , and the moneyes levied thence , should be imployed to wage souldiers for the defence of the Countrey , that so the Gentlemen and Nobilities travell and bloud might be spared . None liked of this course , but every one eschewed to be the first refuser and opposer of it . At last the small Barons sent Sir James Sandilands of Calder , and the Laird of Weemes to her , whose speeches are set down at length . Thus our Writers say : But the ancient men report , that the Earle of Angus was the man that made the refusall ( it may be he joyned with them ) and that he came to Edinburgh , accompanied with 1000. horse , which was against her Proclamation , whereby it was forbidden that any man should have any moe in train then his domesticks and houshold servants , which was to make way for , and was another meane of their intended tyranny . She reproved him for transgressing the Proclamation by being so accompanied . He answered ; That the Knaves would not leave him , that he would gladly be rid of them , for they did eat all his Bread and his Beefe : that he would think himself much bound to her , if she would make him free and quit of them . Concerning the tax which she desired to be made , he said briefly ; We will fight our selves , and that better than any hired fellows ; our Prededecessours have done it , and so will we do also . They tell also how at another time , she desired of him to have his Castle of Tantallon to keep warders , in or upon I know not what pretext , or for what use . To this hee gave no direct answer for a long time , but having a Gose-hawke on his fist which he was feeding , spake of her , saying she was a greedy Glad , that she had already too much , and yet desired more . But when the Queen insisted ( not understanding , or not willing to understand his meaning ) he told her , Yes Madam , why not , all is yours , ye shall have it , it is at your service : But Madam , I must be Captain and keeper of it : I shall keep it for you as well as any man you shall put into it . They tell also how the Queen Regent had intention to make the Earle of Huntley a Duke ; whereof when she was discoursing with Angus she told him , how Huntley had done her very good service , for which she intended to advance him and make him a Duke , to which he answered , Why not Madam , we are happy that have such a Princesse , that can know and will acknowledgemens service , and is willing to recompense it : But by the might of God ( this was his oath when he was serious and in anger , at other times it was by Saint Bride of Douglas ) if he be a Duke , I will be a Drake ( alluding to the word Duke , which in Scotland signifies a Duck as well as that title and dignitie , which being the female , and the Drake the male , his meaning was he would be above and before him ) Our Predecessours ( sayes he ) have done as good service as he or his , for which they have the priviledge to be the first of the Nobilitie after those of the blood Royall , and I will not lose it in my time upon any such pretext . So she desisted from further prosecuting of that purpose . Not long after this he died in Tantallon , and was buried in Abernethie , when he had lived from his marrying the Queen in the year 1514. in continuall action , all the minority of King James the fifth , his majority , all the time of the Duke of Albanie , of the Governour Hamilton , and of the Queen-Mother , till the year 1556. or 57. the space of 44. or 45. years ; to which if we shall adde his age at his marriage ( of which we have no certainty ) and suppose it to have been 20. years , hee hath lived some 64. years . He was a man ( besides his other vertues spoken of ) of greater wisedom than he made show of , or then did appear unto men . His brother Sir George ( who died before him ) was more learned , and of greater eloquence , with whom he entertained alwayes brotherly love and friendship , and would seem to be guided much by his counsel , so that when any suit was made to him , his answer was , We shall advise with our brother . But his brother would tell them ( who came to entreat him to mediate with the Earle ) in plain language , that if he had referred it to his advising with him , it was a thing he intended not to do : for ( sayes he ) what he mindes to do , he never adviseth with me . Neither was he hereby accounted lesse wise indeed ; for even this was a point of wisedome , that he would have his brother seem more wise , which did no whit diminish nor derogate any thing from him . It was of this brotherly affection , that he espoused his brothers quarrell against George Lord Hume about the Lands of Cockburnspeth , or Colburnspeth , as some will have it termed . The Lands were possessed by one John Hume , who was a near Kinsman to the Lord Hume , but for some unkindnesse or hard dealing and usage of the said Lords towards him , he chose rather to sell them to Sir George Douglas . To put his brother in possession ( or to keep it ) the Earle assembled out of Cliddisdale , Tividale , and other parts to the number of 3000. men . He was also assisted by Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , and the Laird of Blackader , together with the rest of Wedderburnes father brothers , all of them except Broom-house , who followed the Lord Hume . Angus brought with him field-pieces , and all provision of Warre . The Lord Hume with his forces came to the Moor above the Park-gate of Cockburnspeth , and alighting from their horses , put their men in order of battell . But when he saw Angus begin to march toward him , and that none came between to bring the matter to a Parley , he shrunk back over the ditch that was near by . Hereupon Angus ( thinking it enough to retain his brothers possession ) stayed his Companies , and stood still . The Lord Hume retired , and going homeward , scattered his Company , and the Earle did the like . Here a quarrell was like to have arisen betwixt John Hume of Blackader , and one Douglas of Jedward forrest . For when Angus began to march against the Lord Hume , this Douglas sayes to Blackader ; Now we of the Forrest , will teach you of the Merse to fight . The other answered a little angerly onely for the time : but when all were retired , he challenged Douglas for those words : to whom Douglas answered , were ye angry at my words ? when the other said he was , It is well ( sayes he ) that ye were ; for I was afraid you would not have been half angry , nor have fought half eagerly , there being so many Humes on the other side . Besides his wisedome and brotherly affection , the Earle of Angus is also reported to have had a great dexteritie in conciliating mens favour . There was no man whom he would not winne with his courtesie and affabilitie , no man but he would take notice of him ; and pretended to know either himself , or his father , or his Grandfather , or some of his friends , whom he would praise unto them , and tell what honest men they had been , and what good service they had done in such and such a place , at such and such times . Of which they relate this instance , how being in Edinburgh talking ( in the Tolbooth ) with the Lord Drummond , there came a friend to Drummond , and took him aside to speak with him a little . When the Gentleman had ended , and was going away , Angus takes him kindly by the hand , and spake familiarly to him as if he had been of his acquaintance . After he was gone , my Lord Drummond asked Angus whether he knew the Gentleman or not ; he answered , that he knew him not at all , and had never so much as seen him before . How comes it then ( sayes Drummond ) that ye spake so familiarly to him ? He answered , I saw he was a friend of yours , and your friends are my friends : And besides , this doth gain mens hearts , If I were now in danger , or had to do , yonder man would assist one , and take my part . Archibaldus Secundus . Quam praestans animi ju venis formâque decorus , Et fuerim tantis , tunc quoque dignus avis . Testis erit thalamo quae me dignata Superbo , Nympha , par●…ns Regis , silia , sponsa , soror . Consiliis promptumque manu Teviotia laudat , Quae stratas acies vidit Ivere tuas . Atque tuas Latone : loquetur nos quoque sortos Esca lothi , & dextra hac me meruisse mori . Quin jam victor eram , ni Prorex Gordoniusque , Sive metus trepidasuasit abire fuga . Seu dolus aut error , liquissent turpiter hostem , Dum premo qui fugiens jam mihi terga dabat . Summus at hinc mihi surgit quod sanguine Creti , Sint nostro reges terra Britanna tui . Archbald the second Earle of that name . How lovely was my shape ! how sweet a grace Dwelt in my looks ! how like the Douglas race ! How gallant was my minde ! what hopes were had Of my fresh youth ! witnesse the Royall bed Of her who had been daughter , sister , wife , To three brave Kings ; how my ensuing life Made good these hopes ; how wise my projects were , Ivers and Laiton vanquish'd , witnesse beare . Pinkie beheld my strength , there had I gain'd The field , but Huntley , and the Regent stain'd Their honour : fear or errour made them flee , Ev'n when I wonne ground of the Enemie : Yet do not these such height of honour bring As t' have been Grandsire to Great Brittains King. Of David the eighth Earle of Angus : And of his father George , called Sir George of Pittendrigh . TO Archbald the second , dying without heires male of his own body , his brother Sir George of Pittendrigh should have succeeded , if he had out-lived him , wherefore we will speak a word of him . He got the Lands of Pittendrigh by marriage . His children by the heire of Pittendrigh ( whose name was Douglas also ) were David , who succeeded to the Earledome of Angus , and James Earle of Morton , and Regent of Scotland . This James got the Earledome of Morton by marrying the third daughter to the Earle of Morton , who was Douglas also , and so was made Earle by provision . Her other two sisters were married before , one to the Lord Hamilton Governour , and the other to the Lord Maxwell . He had also a naturall son , called George of Park-head , because he married the heire of Park-head in Douglas , she was also Douglas to name , of whom he begat James , afterward Lord Torthorall , by marriage likewise , and Sir George of Mordington . He had also a naturall daughter by the Lady Dundas , in her husbands time , called Elizabeth , who was married to Smeton Richeson . Of this Sir George we have spoken above in his brothers life , and how he died before his brother . His son David married Elizabeth Hamilton daughter to John Hamilton of Samilston , called John of Cliddisdale , brother German to Duke Hamilton who was Governour . She bare to him one onely son called Archbald , and two daughters , Margaret first Lady Balcleugh , then Countesse of Bothwell ; and Elizabeth Lady Maxwell . His wife after his death married the Laird of Whitelaw , and had before been married to the Laird of Johnston . This David lived not long , was little above a year Earle of Angus , neither hear we of any of his actions , being somewhat sickly and infirme of body . He died in Cockburnspeth in the year 1558. The ninth Earle of Angus , Archbald the third , and of his Uncle and Tutour James Douglas , Earle of Morton . TO David succeeded his son Archbald ; a childe not above two years old . His Tutour and Guardian was James Douglas Earle of Morton his Uncle , and mother to David . Wherefore it is no wayes out of our way , or impertinent for our History , but rather necessary and most requisite , that we should first speak of him , being a branch and a brother of the house of Angus , and in effect , Earle of Angus , as well as Morton , though under the name of Tutour , or Guardian . Of his marriage , we have told before , how he was married to Douglas his wife , and daughter to the Earle of Morton . She bare to him divers children ( ten as is reported ) but none of them lived long , but died all young , ere they came to perfect age . She her self became distracted of her wits , and would not company with her husband , alledging he was not her husband , but that he was Master Archbald Douglas , who was brother to William Douglas of Whittinghame , that her husband was dead , and that Master Archbald Douglas had killed him . She was kept and entertained by him as became her place , and had her residence at Tantallon , but he being deprived of her Company , loosed the rains to others , and begat three naturall Children : 1. James ( whose mother was one High in Dalkeeth ) who was made Captain of Black-Nesse Castle , Priour of Plusquardain ; and afterwards became Laird of Spot , by marrying the heir thereof , Anna Hume onely daughter to George Hume of Spot . 2. His second son was Archbald , whom he provided to the estate of Pittindreigh , which belonged to his father Sir George . 3. The third son was named Master George Douglas who was lame of his feet . Thus much his Children . Touching himself , during his childe-hood and youth he lived obscurely , and lurked for fear of the King ( James the fifth ) who had banished his Father , and Uncle , caused burn his Ant ( the Lady Glames ) and had professedly set himself against the whole name of Douglas utterly to ruine , and extirpate them . We do not hear that his elder brother David did thus hide himself , or if he did , it hath not been so observed of him : but of this James , it is certainly known that all the time of his fathers banishment and exile , he lurked under the borrowed name of James the Greeve , or James Innesse : First with his Cousin of Glenbarvie , afterward , for fear of being discovered with so near a Kinsman , with some Gentleman in the more Northern parts of Scotland . And as he bore the name , so did he also execute the office of a Greeve , and over-seer of the Lands and Rents , the Corne and Cattell of him with whom he lived . Neither was this ( howsoever mean ) imployment without great use , as nothing else in providence ever is , if it be rightly observed . It fitted him for those weighty matters , which afterward he was to meddle in , and schooled him for that charge in which he was to be employed ere long . For by this meane he became acquainted with the humours and disposition of the vulgar and inferiour sort of the common people , which knowledge is usefull and necessary to greatest Governours , that so they may know how to deale with them , and manage them according as they shall have occasion . He attain●…lso hereby such skill in husbandrie , and such perfection in oeconomy and thriftinesse , that having acquired a habite of frugalitie , he not onely repaired the decayed and shattered Estates of these two Earledomes ( Angus and Morton ) but also helped to recover , and augment the revenues of the Crown and Kingdome , more than any other Regent . So long as his uncle , father , and brother were alive , we do not hear any thing of him , neither is there any mention at all made of him , save that in the year 1547. as hath been said , after the battell at Muscleburgh , he yeelded up to the English his Castle of Dalkeeth , together with himself their prisoner , and was by them carried into England , being then about seven and twenty years of age , or thereby : How long he stayed there , we cannot affirme , but it should seeme he remained there certaine years , for during that time , he learned the Estate of that Countrey , together with the English tongue , and tone , which he did ever thereafter much delight to use . At his return , after the death of his brother David , he being Tutour , and Guardian to his Nephew Archbald Earle of Angus , finding both his own , and his pupils Estate greatly burdened with debt , he lived privately , and retired for a while with a very small retinue of his domesticks onely , neither going to Court , nor intermedling with any publick affairs , to avoid the charges which otherwise he must have undergone . Wherfore his first care was to reduce these two Earledomes to their former integritie , by frugall parsimonie in the beginning , & not to lavish out the remainder by untimely magnificence , esteeming wisely that means & money are the sinews , not onely of Warre , but also of all civill and politick actions . Now besides the burden that was on the Lands , his Nephews title to the Earledome of Angus was questionable . For if the entailement were not very strong ( as it seems it was not ) Lady Margaret Douglas Countesse of Lennox had the better right , and was before him , she being sole heir of Line to Archbald that married the Queen , and so inheritrix of Angus . It is true she lived in England with her husband Lennox , who was banished , but who knew how soon he might be recalled and restored ? Wherefore to prevent that danger , and to strengthen his Nephew and himself against their attempts hee contracts him to Monsieur D'Osels daughter , that by his means and friendship ( he being a French man ) he might have the Queens favour and good-will to uphold him against their claims . But this contract took no effect , for she was married afterward to Monsieur D'Aubespine , and Angus to others , as wee shall hear in his life . After that he had thus settled his affairs at home , he began to come abroad and to have a hand in publick businesse . In the year 1559. he with Duke Hamilton do mediate a truce between the Queen-Mother , and the Lords , from the 24. of July , untill the 10. of January . Some Writers say that he assisted , and sided with the Queen ; but it should seem that they have mis-taken the matter : for not long after , he joyned openly with those that were against her , and the French Faction ; and is now reckoned among the Noblemen that sent to the Queen of England for her aide and assistance . These were the Duke of Chattelraut , James Stuart brother to the young Queen ( afterward Earle of Murray ) the Earle of Arran ( son to the Duke ) Argyle , Glencairne , Rothes , Sutherland , Monteth , Huntley , Caithnesse , Arrol , Marshal , Montrose , Cassils , Eglinton : The Lords Ruthven , Oglebye , Ereskin , Drummond , Hume , Rosse , Creighton , Levingston , Sommervale , the whole Nobilitie almost . Their cause and their company being so good , Morton could not but take part with them : The common liberty of their Countrey against the French , and Religion was no lesse dear to him than it was to them . In matter of Religion , he was so forward , that the Book of Discipline being compiled by some appointed for that purpose , though divers refused to approve of it , and to set to their hands , yet he did it with the first , & received it willingly . Wherefore these two ( then which there is nothing dearer unto men ) being in danger , he was forced in a manner to lend his helping hand for their defence , pro aris & focis , as the common saying is . And that the rather , for that he saw there was no hope of peace , seeing the truce which he had procured till the 10. of January was not kept . For before the middle of September Monsieur La Croque , being sent out of France to certifie the Queen of the new Forces which were in levying for her aide under the leading of Marquesse D'Elbeufe her brother , she began to fortifie Leith with those French which were already in the Countrey . Not long after arrived Octavian ( a French Colonel ) with 1000. men , and immediatly followed him at the heeles La Brosse , Knight of the Cockle , with 2000. more . The next spring came also the Count Marquesse of the house of Luxemberg , afterward Duke D'Estamps , with 1000. foot , and some horse . These all remained and abode in Leith , which they had fortified ; but the Queen to secure her own Person , retired to the Castle of Edinburgh , though the Captain thereof , the Lord Ereskin , were on the contrary part . The Nobilitie assembling themselves at Dalkeeth Castle , which belonged to Morton , hard by Edinburgh , from thence do write to her , desiring that she would dismisse the French , who were forrainers , and set open the Town of Leith , that the Natives might have free recourse and commerce thither . When they could not obtain these things at her hands , the English , to the number of seven or eight thousand being already entred into Scotland , they sate down before Leith the 4. of April 1560. About the eight of June , the Queen-Mother dying in the Castle of Edinburgh , a peace was concluded , the Town of Leith was surrendered , and the French men returned home into their own Countrey . In the beginning of Winter , Morton , together with Glencairne , and Sir William Metellan of Lithington , Secretary , were sent to thank the Queen of England for her ready succour . Morton had also a private message from the Earle of Arran , sonne to Duke Hamilton , to lay out marriage to her , but it is not likely that he would deliver it , being so unprobable , and such a proposition as he knew would not be very acceptable unto her . In this journey , Morton procured of his Cousin Lady Margaret Douglas Countesse of Lennox , her renunciation of all claime and title she had to the Earledome of Angus , in favours of his Nephew Archbald , but being done without the consent of her husband ( Matthew Earle of Lennox ) it was renewed again afterward . The sixteenth of August 1561. Queen Mary returned out of France to her native Countrey and Kingdome of Scotland , her husband Francis the second of France , being dead before in December . The Nobilitie was still divided concerning matter of Religion , and although now having their native Princesse at home , her husband being dead , there was no great cause to fear the power or empire of strangers , yet did they suspect that she would be too much ruled and counselled by her Uncles the Cardinal of Loraine , and the Guisians . The Heads of the parties were James the Queens brother , and George Earle of Huntley , the first a zealous Protestant , and wholly bent to maintaine the received Reformation , and the other no lesse forward to reduce the Romish Religion . The Queen inclined to favour Huntleyes cause , but the Reformed Religion was established by Acts of Parliament , which had been ratified by her own consent . Huntley , as he was a craftie and turbulent man , so was he also esteemed to be by the Queen , and her uncles , who ( like unto themselves ) made but a cloak of Religion to attain his own ambitious ends and designes . Wherefore howbeit they thought him a fit instrument to bring their own purposes to passe , and made use of him , yet did they not trust him . James Earle of Murray by the contrary was sincere , upright , trustie , and faithfull in all his actions , but he ran a course directly opposite to that which they intended . The Earle of Morton entred into strait bonds of friendship with Murray , which continued so long as they lived together . They had the same friends , and the same enemies , the same ends and aimes , the good of their Countrey , and maintaining of Religion . They ran the same hazard in all perils and dangers , never separating their counsels , nor failing to aid and assist one another . Wherefore Murray being sent by the Queen against the out-lawes upon the Borders , being assisted by Morton and his friends ( who lay near unto these places ) he came to Hawick upon the Fair-day of that Town , and having apprehended fiftie of the most notorious Theeves which came to the Market fearing nothing , he did so terrifie the rest , that those parts remained peaceable and quiet for a long time after . This successe as it increased his reputation , so did it also more and more kindle the hatred and envie of his enemies . And now besides those at home , the Guisards did also plot his ruine . Their quarrell was Religion , their instrument Huntley , their hope , his power and greatnesse , which was given out to them to be rather more than it was indeed . Wherefore they write to the Queen ( their Neece ) to feed Huntley with large promises , and to entertaine his sonne John with hope of marrying her , and fair countenances , that so they might be drawn to do what she listed , to make away Murray and Morton , with their complices . The Popes Letters were to the same effect . She had sent to him for moneys to make Warre upon those that had spoken of the yoke of Popish obedience ; and his answer was , that she should not want his help ; so that she would do it seriously , that was ( according to the Cardinall of Lorains Glosse ) so that first of all she would cause make away those whose names were given her in writing . These Letters she shewed unto Murray and the rest ; either because she suspected they had notice of them some other way , or to lull them asleep in security , that being thus perswaded of her sincerity and good meaning , they might the more easily be over-reached and entrapped . So the project goeth on ; and all things being sufficiently fore-cast , and prepared for the accomplishing of their intentions , the Queen takes her Progresse into the North. Murray behooved to accompany her , and Morton would not forsake Murray . Who can imagine that their counsels should be disappointed ? The Forces which Murray and Morton had , were very small , and they were farre from their friends , which dwelt in the south parts of the Kingdome . Huntley commanded all in those quarters , being Lieutenant and Sheriff by inheritance : and compassed about with his friends and dependers : So the Game seemed sure . But what can prevaile against that which God hath ordained ? He had decreed to frustrate them , and that by themselves . The Queens intentions and Huntleys did not jumpe in all things : they had their severall ends . They agreed in their desire of being rid of those who opposed the re-establishing of Poperie , but Huntley had a further drift . He propounded to himself as the reward of his service , no lesse than the Queens Person , to be married to his sonne John , and so in effect the Crown and Kingdome . But howsoever the Queen by her carriage toward the young man , was contented they should please themselves with that conceit ; yet neither did she ever go so farre as to promise any such thing , neither was it indeed her meaning : for she desired no lesse to be rid of Huntley , and hated him much more than she did Murray , having had many proofs of his persidious dealing both toward her father , and her mother . Besides , she thought him too great and more powerfull than was fit for a Subject , or safe for the Prince . Wherefore before she began her journey into the North , she left his sonne John in prison behinde her . The pretext was , because he had hurt the Lord Oglebie in a Skirmish on the Street of Edinburgh ; but the true cause was , that he might be kept there as a pledge of his Fathers fidelitie , and that he being absent , Huntley might not constraine her to marry him , nor force her to any thing shee had not a minde to . But John made an escape out of prison , and followed the Queen , that his absence might not bee any hinderance to the marriage . So Huntley and his son gather their Forces together to meet the Queen , and to cut off Murray and Morton , as they would have her beleeve , but their main aim was withall to compel her to marry if she should refuse . This the Queen knew well enough : so that when the Countesse of Huntley did tell her from the Earle her husband , that he was ready to put in execution what had been determined , the Queen told her , that there was one thing which Huntley must needes do first of all , before any thing else were taken in hand . His sonne John had broken prison , which was a manifest contempt of her authoritie , and such a thing as she could not in honour wink at , and therefore he behooved to returne and enter himself prisoner in the Castle of Stirlin , though it were but for some few dayes , to shew his obedience and subjection to the Lawes . Huntley would none of that , for he saw that so his son should be made to answer for whatsoever should be done contrary to the Queenes liking , so there was a demurre in the businesse . In the mean time the Queen goes from Aberdene to Bawhan , the house of one Master Leslie a Gentleman , some twelve miles from the Town . This was thought a fit place to execute their designe upon Murray and Morton : but the Gentleman , though he was Huntlies friend , would upon no termes give way to have done in his house . Then the Queen went toward Strabogie ( a house of Huntleyes , where he had resolved to make an end of all ) but by the way she told the Earle , as they rode together , that unlesse his son would returne to his prison , she could not in honour go to his house . But he not condescending thereunto , though she were within sight of Strabogie , she turned another way , and went to a house of the Earle of Athols , from thence to Innernesse , where thinking to have lodged in the Castle , Huntleys servants that had the keeping thereof , shut the gates against her . Then did she perceive what danger she was in , being constrained to lodge in an open town , which had neither wall , nor rampart , nor ditch , the Countrey about being wholly at Huntleyes devotion , whose son John was in the fields with a thousand armed men , besides the countrey people , who were ready to joyne with him . Wherefore now seeing that her own safetie consisted in her brothers , having none else on whom she could relie & trust into , she began to make much of him & Morton . These two caused set a watch , and placed a strong Guard at all the entries of the town , by which means Huntleyes spies and intelligencers were taken : The next morning the Clon-chattans , with the Frasers , and Monroes , and many High-landers , understanding that their Princesse was in danger , came to her aide , and forsook Huntley . With these she took the Castle of Innernesse , and caused execute Alexander Gordon the Captain thereof , which was a sufficient testimonie of her alienation from Huntley . All this did not quail the Earle , or divert him from his purpose . His ambition spurred him on before , necessitie doth now drive him forward . He had gone too far to thinke of a retreat . Therefore he followes the Queen from Innernesse to Aberdene , watching for some oportunitie to effect his intentions . He lay not far from the town with his Companies , and had his intelligencers within it , the Earle of Sutherland , Master Leslie of Bawhan , black Alexander ( or Arthur ) Forbes . The townsmen were most of them , either of his kinred , or allied to him ; and all of them so affected , as that they neither would , or durst oppose him . But letters being intercepted , which Sutherland and Bawhan wrote to him , their plots were discovered , and they defeated of their intendments once more . Then Murray and Morton thinking it both tedious and perillous , to be alwayes on their guard , and to be defenders only , resolved to take their turne of assailing , and pursuing , if so happily they might break his Forces , and disperse them . And howbeit they had not of their own , that they could trust to above an hundred horse , yet being armed with authoritie , and the Majestie of their Soveraigne , for the safetie of whose person they were to fight , having gathered together of Forbeses and Leslies , to the number of seven or eight hundred , and hoping that albeit they inclined to favour Huntley , yet their duty and allegiance to their Princesse would not suffer them to betray her , they took the fields . These made great show of forwardnesse in conveening , and gave out great words and brags , that they alone would do all . Huntley with his men had taken a plot of ground , inclosed about with marishes , so that he was in a manner encamped . Murray and Morton , with the trustiest of their Friends , retired to a little hill , to behold the issue of this Battell , committing all to those who had taken it upon them : Onely they sent some hor●…men a by-way , to close up the passages of the marish , that Huntley being overcome , might not escape that way . So those boasters begin to march toward the enemie , and by the way they pluckt off the heath ( or hather ) which growes in abundance in those parts , and stuck it in their Helmets , and Head-pieces , according as it had been agreed upon betwixt them and Huntley . Wherefore , he thinking now ( these being for him ) that there was no power to resist him , came out of his Strength against t●…em , who presently turned their backs , and came fleeing with their swords drawn , and crying , Treason , treason , as if they had been betrayed , when indeed themselves were the traitours . They had thrown away their spears and long weapons , wherefore Murray and Morton , though they were astonished at the first sight of these hather-topped traitours , who came running toward them , with Huntley at their heels , yet they took courage , and resolved to stand to it . For as they were about to save themselves by flight , and were calling for their horses , William Douglas of Glenb arvie , ( who was afterward Earle of Angus ) requested them to stay ( as is reported ) saying , No horses , my Lords , we are strong enough for Huntley , and these men , though they flee , yet will they not fight against us . Wherefore let us present our pikes and spears to keep them out , that they come not in amongst us , to break our ranks , and the rest will prove easie . This advice was liked , and followed , so that Huntley expecting nothing lesse , than to finde resistance , and being destitute of long weapons , was forced ( some of his men being slain ) to give ground , and at last to flee as fast as before he had followed the counterfeit fleers . Then the Hather-tops perceiving that Huntley fled , turned upon him , and to make amends , slew most of them that were slain that day , which were some hundred and twentie , and an hundred taken prisoners , amongst whom was Huntley himself , and his sonnes John , and Adam . The Earle being an aged and corpulent pursie man , was stifled with his armour , and for want of breath in the taking . Some say , that he received a stroke on the head with a pistoll , but it seemes to be false : for it is reported , that when Huntley saw his men routed , he asked of those that were by him ; what the name of the ground was upon which they fought , and having learned that it was commonly called Corraighie , he repeated the name thrice , Corraighie , Corraighie , Corraighie , then God be mercifull to me . The name of the place put him in minde of a response or oracle ( if we may so call it ) which was given by a Witch in the Highland , to whom he had sent to enquire of his death , and she had told , that he should die at Corraighie . But whether the messenger , or he himself mis-took the word , he understood it of Creigh , a place which was in his way to Aberdene , and which ( riding thither ) he alwayes did shunne , by reason of this Sooth-sayers speech ; or if at any time he did adventure to go by it , he was sure to be well accompanied , and to have the fields cleared and curried before . But this event discovered his mistaking . It was also told him by some of the same profession , that the same day , on which he was taken , he should be in Aberdene , maugre those that would not so , neither should one drop of his bloud be spilt . This seemed to promise him a successefull journey ; but the ambiguitie thereof was cleared by his death : for he was indeed that night in Aberdene , being carried thither upon a paire of creels , or panniers , and that against the will of all his friends , who would not have had him brought thither in such a guise . Neither did he lose any bloud , but was choak'd for want of breath . Such are commonly the answers of such spirits , ambiguous , and of no use to the receivers ; yet mens curiositie is so prevalent , that posterity wil take no warning of former examples . Murray being glad of this so-unlooked-for-victory , sent to the Ministers of Aberdene , to be ready against his coming , to go to the Churches , and give God thanks for that dayes successe : which they did very solemnely , and ( no question ) heartily , as men are wont to do while the memory of a great delivery is yet fresh in their mindes . The next day John Gordon ( the Earles son ) was execute , and his brother Adam was pardoned in regard of his youth . George the eldest brother fled to his father-in-law Duke Hamilton , and afterward being arraigned & condemned of high treason , he was sent prisoner to the Castle of Dumbar : Who doth not see through this whole journey , but especially in this catastrophe , an over-ruling power and providence doth either willingly shut his eyes , or else hath his understanding blinded by partiality or prejudice . Five severall times ( at Bawhan , at Straboggie , at Inner-Nesse , at Aberdene , and last of all , at Corraighie ) did Huntley attempt to cut off these men , who were many degrees weaker ; and five times is hee disappointed . And that neither by their wisedome or strength , but by him who confounds the wisedome of the wise , and who delivers without the help of the arme of flesh . Neither were they delivered onely , but their enemies were also taken in the trap , and fell into the pit which they had digged for them . Let men observe it , and let them learne not to confide in their own ( never so seeming wisely grounded ) projects , lest they be thus disappointed as Huntley was . This fell out in the year 1562. After this they returned with the Queen to Edinburgh , where we will leave them in rest , and so in silence a year or two . In the year 1564. Matthew Stuart Earle of Lennox returned into Scotland after 22. years exile , and was restored to his estate in a Parliament . Not long after , his sonne Henry Lord Darnely , having obtained leave of the Queen of England for three moneths , came to do his duty to the Queen as his Princesse and Kinswoman . Hee being a proper and handsome young man , and her Cousin Germane by his mother , Lady Margaret Douglas , the Queen began to think him a fit husband for her , and ere long did propound the matter to the Nobilitie , craving their consent and approbation thereto . They were divided in their opinions . Hamilton and Murray were against the match , fearing alteration in Religion , he being a Romane Catholique , as the Queen also was . Besides , they thought it not fit to conclude any thing without the Queen of Englands consent . Morton was for it , and thought it great reason that shee should have her libertie in her choyce of a husband . He liked also the party , being his near Kinsman , the Lady Margaret Douglas and he being brothers children . Wherefore having endeavoured to draw those that stood against it to be of his opinion , when he could not prevaile , he professed openly he would do what lay in him to set it forward ; and speaking to the Duke and Murray , It will be long ( sayes he ) ere you two agree on a husband for her , if she marry not till you do , I fear me she marry not these seven years ; and so he left them . The rest bound themselves to withstand it . Her Uncles of Guise did also oppose it , intending to bestow her on some forraine Prince , so to strengthen themselves by some great alliance . The Queen of England did not so much dislike it , as she desired to have some hand and stroke in it . Notwithstanding all this opposition the marriage was consummate the 27. of July 1565. about some six moneths after he came into Scotland . Whatsoever the motives were that induced the parties thus to hasten it , so it pleased God in his wisedome and providence , to dispose of things that by joyning of these two , this happy conjunction of the two Kingdomes which we now see and enjoy , should spring from them without all controversie or question . The eldest daughter of King Henry the seventh of England , Margaret , had but two children ; James the fifth by King James the fourth , and Margaret Douglas ( born at Harbottle ) by Archbald Earle of Angus her second husband . James the fifth left behinde him but one childe , Mary , sole heire to the Crowne of Scotland . Lady Margaret Douglas , being brought up with her Uncle Henry the eight , was married to Matthew Stuart Earle of Lennox , who being banished , and living in England , had by her Henry , Lord Darnely , and Charles , father to Arabella . So that by this marriage of Queen Mary to Henry Lord Darnely , the whole right that was in Queen Margaret to the Crowne of England ( failing the heires of King Henry the eight ) was combined and united in the persons of these two , and their off spring . What eye is so blinde as not to see evidently the hand of the Almighty in this match ? In taking away her former husband ( the King of France ) in bringing her back again into Scotland ; in sending Lennox into England , there to marrie Lady Margaret Douglas , in bringing him and his sonne ( Henry ) home again after 22. years absence , and in moving Queen Mary to set her affection on him . I make no question but this consideration ( of strengthening the title to England ) hath been amongst the motives that drew on this match , though we finde none , or very slender mention thereof in our writers . The next day after the marriage , they were proclaimed with sound of Trumpet at the Market-Crosse of Edinburgh by a Herauld , Henry and Mary , King and Queen of Scotland . This was ill taken both of the Nobility and Commons . A King made by Proclamation ! The voice of a Herauld to be in stead of a Parliament ! King Francis , her former husband had not done so ; he had sought a matrimoniall Crowne from the three estates , and hardly obtained it , after he had been refused at first , yet not without consent of a Parliament . But by this it appeared they made no account of the estates , nor bare no respect unto the customes of the Kingdome . Every man thought it a great neglect and derogation to their priviledges , but the male-contented called it , a tyrannicall usurpation . Thus many of the Nobility being discontented withdrew themselves , and the want of their presence and countenance in guiding of affaires , did alienate the people . The principall male-contents were Hamilton , Murray , Argyle , Rothuse , Glencairne . Against these the King goeth to Glasgow with 4000. men . They lay at Pasley ; and though they were together , yet they were not all of one minde . The Hamiltons would not hear of any peace , alledging there could be no true and firme reconciliation with Princes once offended . The rest were not of their opinion : they said that matters had been hitherto carried without bloud ; neither were their differences such , but that they might be composed without stroke of sword ; especially in regard that there were some about their Princes , that would both mediate their peace , and endeavour to have it faithfully kept , The constant practice of their Predecessours , and the rule they had ever followed had been this ; To passe by , and not to take notice of the secret and hidden faults of their Princes , and to salve those things which were doubtfull by a favourable and charitable construction ; yea even to tolerate and beare with their open faults and errours , as far as might be , without the ruine of the common wealth ; of which nature they esteemed these slips in government to be proceeding from their youth , and want of experience , which might be redressed by calme and fair means . Duke Hamilton himself did like of their moderation , but the rest of the Hamiltons refused to assist them upon these terms ; wherefore they departed all of them , save the Duke , with some sixteen that attended his Person . By this departure they were so weakened , that not daring to abide the Kings coming , they went first to Hamilton , and the day following toward Edinburgh , but being shot at from the Castle , they took their way through Bigger to Dumfreis , to the Lord Harris , who had desired them to do so , and had made them many faire promises . But he failing them , they dismissed their Troupes , and fled into England . All this way the King with his Companies dogged them at the heeles , whereupon it was called , the Runne-away Rode ( or runne-about ) and , the wilde-goose chase . The King returned to Edinburgh in the latter end of October . All this while the Earle of Morton took part with the King and Queen , but he was suspected to favour the other side , which he did indeed so farre , as to wish that the matter might be so taken up , that none of their lives were endangered . Otherwise he was in a good place , and Chancellour for the time . But these male-contented Lords being thus removed , his house of Tantallon was seized , that it might not be a receipt and place of refuge for the Rebels , if they should happen to take it : But the true cause was , Rizio ( commonly known by the name Signior David ) had put the King and Queen in some jealousie of Morton ; the occasion whereof was this , This Italian ( or Pied-montoise ) was of a Musician , risen to such favour , that he was become Cabin-Secretary to the Queen ; and Sir William Metellan ( Secretary of estate ) finding himself prejudiced by him , who had encroached upon his office , as also out of the love he bare to Murray ( to whom Rizio was a professed enemy ) bethought himself how to be rid of him . Wherefore he appointed a meeting with Morton , and the Lord Harris , in which he used all the perswasions he could to induce them to cut off that base stranger , who took upon him to disturb the Countrey , did abuse the Queens favour , and set all in a combustion , to the dishonour of the Prince and Nobilitie ; telling them , that it belonged to them , and such as they were , to have a care that such disorders were not suffered unpunished . And the more to incite them thereto , he alledged the examples of former times , omitting nothing which he thought might move them to undertake it . But Morton ( as the Proverb is ) was as wise as he was wisely : He told him flatly , he would take no such violent course , he would do what he could by fair meanes for Murrays peace and restitution : but as for that way , it would offend the Queen highly , and therefore he would not meddle with it . Metellan seeing that he could not draw him to it by perswasion , casts about how to drive him to it by necessity . He betakes himself to Rizio , makes shew as if he were very desirous of his friendship , and proffers him his service so farre as he was able . After he had so insinuated with him , that he began to have some trust with him , he told him that the place he had ( to be the Queens Closet-Secretarie ) was neither gainefull , nor usuall in this Countrey , and that he might easily come by a better : The Lord Chancellours office ( sayes he ) is the most honourable , which is in Mortons hands , a man no wayes fit for the place , as being unlettered and unskilfull . Do but deal with the Queen to estrange her countenance from him , as one th●…t savours Murray a Rebell , and with the King to insist in his right to the Earledome of Angus , Morton will be glad to sue to you for your favour , and to obtain your friendship , will be content to demit his place of Chancellour in your behalf 〈◊〉 Onely , in regard that the place ( being the chief office in the Kingdome ) must be possessed by a Scottish Nobleman , you must first be made a free Denizan , and naturalized , and have the title of an Earle , which the Queen may conferre upon you of her self . This Metellan thought would incense Morton against Rizio , and force him to do him a mischief . Rizio began to follow this advice , in so much that the Castle of Tantallon was summoned , and delivered into the Kings hands . Likewise the King entred heir to his Grandfather Archbald Earle of Angus . The Queen also intending to create Rizio an Earle , would have bought Melvin Castle with the Lands belonging thereto for the first step of his preferment , but the owner would by no meanes part with them . And it is very probable , that he would have prosecuted the rest of the Plot , if he had not been interrupted , and dispatched before he could bring it to passe : for his credit increased so farre with the Queen , that like too big a Saile for a small Barke , he was not able to bear his good fortune , but being puft up therewith beyond measure , he forgot his duty to the King , and carried himself so insolently toward him , that the King resolved to rid himself of him upon any terms . So he imparts his minde to his friends , that Rizio must needs be made away . Those whom he first acquainted with his purpose , were George Douglas ( commonly called the Postulate ) a naturall brother of his mothers , an understanding and active man ; the Lord Ruthven who had married a naturall sister of his mothers , and the Lord Lindsay , who was his Cousin German , and had to wife a sister of the Earle of Murrayes ; and his own father the Earle of Lennox . These had concluded to lay hold on him as he came from the Tennesse-Court , where he used much , but he having gotten some inkling hereof , kept a Guard about him of some fifty Halbards , which constrained them to think of a new course . And because their power was neither sufficient to effect it , nor to bear it out when it were done , they thought good to joyne the Earle of Morton . He being somewhat alienated , and discontented with the Kings insisting in his claime to the Earledome of Angus , they sent to him Andrew Ker of Fadunside , and Sir John Ballindine Justice-Clerk to deal with him , who prevailed so farre , that he was content to come to Lennox Chamber where the King was . There they came soon to an agreement , the King and his father for themselves , and undertaking also for Lady Margaret Douglas ( whose consent they promised to obtaine , and that she should renue and ratifie what had been done by her self before ) renounced all title , right , interest , or claim they had or could make to the Earledome of Angus in favours of Archbald sonne to David , sometime Earle thereof . Having obtained this , he consented to assist the K. with all his power on these conditions . 1. That nothing should be altered in the received Religion , but that it should be established as fully , and in as ample manner , as it was before the Queen came home out of France . 2. That the banished Lords should be brought home and restored . 3. That the King would take the fact upon himself , and warrant them from whatsoever danger might follow thereon by the Queens displeasure . These Articles were given him in writing to subscribe , lest afterward out of his facilitie or levitie he should either deny it , or alter his minde , which he did very willingly , and even eagerly . Presently hereupon Lennox went into England to acquaint the banished Lords herewith , and to bring them near to the Borders of Scotland , that when Rizio were slaine , they might be ready to lay hold of the occasion for their restitution . And now the day of the Parliament drew near , in which they were to be forfeited ; and Rizio did bestirre himselfe notably to bring it to passe . He went about to all those that had vote in Parliament , to trie their mindes , and to terrifie them , by telling it was the Queens pleasure to have it so , and that whosoever voted to the contrary should incurre her high displeasure , and no waies do any good to the Noblemen . This made them hasten his death , to prevent the sentence which the Parliament might have given out against the Lords by Rizio his practises . Wherefore that they might take him , when his Guard was from him , and that it might the more clearly be seen , that the King was the chief authour of it , they determined to take him along with them , who should bring him out of the Queens Chamber , from whence he should be carried to the City and have his triall by assise , and so legally and formally ( for they had matter enough against him ) condemned and executed at the Market-Crosse of Edinburgh . So Morton assembled his friends , and going to the Abbey of Halyroodhouse ( the 8. of March 1566 ) in the evening , he seized the Keyes of the Palace , and leaving a sufficient number in the Inner-Court below , to keep in the Noblemen that were lodged in the Palace , and were not on the Plot , he himselfe went up to the presence , and there walked up and down . The King went directly to the Queens Chamber by the privie staires , and with him the Lord Ruthven , and some five more all armed . The Queen was at supper , and there was with her , her naturall sister the Countesse of Argyle , and Rizio with some few other servants . She was at first somewhat amazed to see them come into her Bed-Chamber being armed ; but because the Lord Ruthven had been sick of a burning fever , she thought he had been distracted with the vehemencie of the fit , so she asked what the matter was . Ruthven made no answer , but laid hold on Rizio , and told him it did not become him to be in that place . He ranne to the Queen , and clasped his hands about her to save himself , but the King taking her softly in his arms , told her they had determined to punish that villaine ; who had abused both them and the Countrey ; and withall unclasping Rizio his hands , he delivered him to Ruthven , who carried him from thence into the Privie-Chamber , and then to the Presence . In the mean time the Earle Bothwell and Huntley ( who were opposite to this course ) being lodged in the Palace , and hearing how things went on the Queens side , would have made resistance , by the help of the under-officers of Court , Butlers , Cooks , Skuls and suchlike , with Spits and Staves , but they were quickly rambarred , and beaten back by those that had been left of purpose in the Court by Morton . So Huntley and Bothwell fled out at backwindowes . Athole was perswaded to keep his Chamber by Secretary Metellan , who was on the Plot , and supped that night with Athole , partly to keep him from stirring , lest he might have offered or suffered violence ; partly and chiefly that he himself might not be suspected to have a finger in the Pie , having Athole to be a witnesse of his behaviour therein . He had given order to his followers , that they should remaine quiet till it came to be acted , and that then they should arme themselves , and runne hastily , as it were to an unknown and sudden fray and tumult , but if there were need , to assist Morton and those that guarded the Court. The noise of the scuffling which Huntly and Bothwel made below in the Court , coming to the eares of those that were above in the presence , and had Rizio in their hands ; they not knowing what it might import , but fearing that he might be rescued from them , they fell upon him , and stabbed him with their daggers , sore against the will , and besides the intention of Morton , and the rest of the Noblemen , who thought to have caused execute him upon the scaffold , so to have gratified the common people , to whom it would have been a most acceptable and pleasant sight . It is constantly reported that he was advised by one Damicote ( a French Priest , who was thought to have some skill in the black Art ) that now he had gotten good store of means and riches , it was best for him to return home to his native Countrey , where he needed not to feare the Nobilitie of Scotland , whose hatred he could not be able to stand out against long ; but he contemned his counsell , saying , The Scots were greater threatners , than doers . They say also , that one Signior Francese admonished him to carry himself more soberly , and not to irritate the Nobilitie ; for as he understood they bare him no great good will , and would not faile to do him some mischief one time or another ; but he answeredhim in Italians , Parole , parole , all was but words , he feared them not , they were no body , they were but like Ducks , which if some of them be stricken down , the rest will lie in . To whom the other replied , Take heed you finde them not rather like Geese , of which if you stirre but one , all the rest will flie upon you , and so plume you , that they will leave you neither Feather , nor Down . So when he was desired by some Diviner , or Sooth-sayer , to beware of the Bastard , he said , That Bastard should not have power to do much hurt in Scotland , so long as he lived ; understanding it to be spoken of Murray , who was Bastard-brother to the Queen . But the Bastard that slew him , was George Douglas ( as is the most received opinion ) who stabbed him with the Kings dagger , having none of his own then about him . This brought Morton into great trouble ; for the next day being the day of the Parliament , the banished Lords compeered in the Parliament-House , as they had been summoned , where finding no accuser , now that Rizio was gone , the Parliament was deserted , and the Queen reconciled unto them , intending to use their help against the slayers of Rizio . Wherefore she went first to Seton , then to Dumbar , where she assembled a sufficient number of men , so that Morton , Ruthven , and their partners , were fain to flee into England , but some of them lurked in the High-lands . Their Goods were confiscated , their places and Offices disposed of to others . Their friends , who were no wayes accessarie to that fact , were committed to prison . Sir David Hume of Wedderburne , onely because he was Mortons kinsman , was sent first to Dumbar , then to the Ken-moore in Galloway . It is true , it was his brother-in-laws house , and Loghen-varre was indeed a loving brother , yet was it farre from home , neither was he set free without bail to re-enter when he should be required . Thus were the dice changed . Morton was at Court , when Murray and his complices were banished : now they are in Court , when he and his associats are dis-courted , and forced to flee . He had favoured them , but had not joyned with them : they favour him , but think it not good to take part with him . Yet had they more reason to do it , for his fact had wrought out their Libertie , theirs had made him to be suspected . But whether they would not , or could not do him any good , or that they thought the time was not fit , and a better time was to be expected , the King ( who was the chief authour and first mover of it ) having for saken him , he was constrained to with-draw himself into England , as we have said . There he did not remain long in ease and quiet , for about the beginning of May , the Queen sent Master John Thornton ( Chanter of Murray ) desiring that he and the rest , might not be suffered to harbour within the Queen of Englands Dominions . She sent the same Thornton also to France with the like message , but it needed not , for they never meant to go thither . Queen Elizabeth sent one of her servants ( William Killigrew ) and by him promised to cause them voide her Realme before Mid-summer . It was so done in shew , they were warned to depart , and did depart from Newcastle , abstained from conversing in publick , but they lurked privately in a place not far from Anwick . No search was made for them , and the Messenger had whispered them in the ear , when he commanded them to be gone , that England was broad and wide . Before they came from Newcastle , he lost his good friend the Lord Ruthven , whom God called to his rest in mercy . Thus was he banished from Scotland , England , France , and Ireland , yet did he lurk still in England . But he lurked not long ; for matters were in brewing at home , which gave occasion to his returne . The Earle Bothwell was now become the Queens favourite , all men followed him , all preferment came by him . His thoughts were high , his ambition no lesse than to injoy the Queen , if she were free from a husband . To bring this designe to passe , she was content to forget all private quarrels with Morton , and he presumed that Morton being abandoned of the King , and ingaged to him for his return and restitution , as also being led with hope of his further goodwill , to gratifie him in any thing that might be procured from the Queen , would be induced either to become his friend , or at least not to be his enemy , nor to raise , or to side with any Faction against him ; which he esteemed a great point , & of much importance . There was amongst Bothwels followers , one M. Arch. Douglas , a brother of the house of Whittingame , by his mediation all former quarrels were taken away on both sides , & Mortons peace procured from the Q. on condition he should not come within a mile of the Court. This restraint he reckoned to be rather beneficiall , than hurtfull to him ; seeing that by that mean , he should be the farther off from whatsoever should happen amisse . Wherefore being returned before the Q. was brought to bed of her son James the 6. ( which was the 19. of June 1566 ) he becomes a spectatour , beholding a farre off what would be the issue of things . To sit on the shoare , & to behold others at sea tossed with winde and wave , though it cannot but stir our pity and commiseration in common humanity , yet when we reflect upon our selves , and consider how happy we are that are on firme land , free from these fears and dangers , the joy and contentment we have in our own safety , doth swallow up the former consideration of anothers danger . So it was with Morton , he saw what a fearful tragedie was like to be acted at court , but not being able to ●…inder it , he chose to keep at home . He was the Kings kinsman , yet could he do him no good , having had experience of his weaknes and inconstancy in his forsaking of him , after the killing of Rizio . He was beholding to Bothwell for his restoring , and therefore bound not to oppose him , in honesty and dutie he could not aid nor assist him in such courses . Wherefore he useth the benefite of his confining , and becomes a looker on . To declare the estate of those times , and to dilate it , let them do it that can delight to blaze the weaknesse of those , whom they ought to love and honour , and who have that task imposed upon them , by whatsoever necessitie . For my self , neither am I any way necessitated thereunto , neither could my soul ever delight in the reproach of any . I wish I could cover the sins of the world , they should never be uncovered , or known , but where necessity did require it , that so they might be taken away by order . My endeavour should rather be with the blessed sons of Noah , to overspread , with the mantle of silence and oblivion , the nakednesse of those to whom we owe even a filial dutie & pietie . Concerning that Princesse , my heart inclineth more to pitie ; I see good qualities in her , and love them : I see errours , and pity them : I see gentlenesse , courtesie , humilitie , beautie , wisedome , liberalitie ; who can but affect these ? If they be carried to inconvenience , who can but lament it ? In that sex , in that place , in that education , in that company : a woman , a Princesse , accustomed to pleasure , to have their will , by Religion , by sight , by example , by instigation , by soothing , and approbation . Happie , yea thrice happy are they who are guided through these rocks without touch , nay , without shipwrack . I do advert more than I finde set down by Writers , while I search into all the causes which might have drawn on these lamentable events . Besides the secret loathings in the estate of marriage ( which who knows but the actors ? ) bringing forth dislike , then quarrels on both sides , then crossing & th warting , then hatred , then desire to be freed ; besides all this , impotencie , and desire of revenge , being seconded with shew of reason , and backed with a colour of law and justice ; what wil it not do ? Her husband had killed a servant of hers , whom he had dragged violently out of her bed-chamber . Behold him therefore ( as Lawyers , or such as pretended skill in law would alledge ) guiltie of death in their judgment . He was not crowned , but proclaimed King only by her sole authority , never acknowledged by a Parliament , so was he but a private man , & a subject to her his Soveraigne , as are the wives and children of Kings . Wherefore his Fact ( in slaying Rizio ) was flat treason , for which he might have bin arraigned , and suffered according to law . But bearing the name of a King , & having many friends and kinred , a legall proceeding could hardly be attempted without great difficulty , and might have caused an insurrection , and much bloud-shed with uncertain event . Wherefore in wisedome the most convenient way was to do it privatly and secretly ; secret justice , is justice notwithstanding ; formalities are but for the common course of things . This was an extraordinary case . Justice is absolutly necessary , the form ( whether this , or that way ) is indifferent , it may be altered , or omitted ; the Princes power may dispense with forms in case of necessitie or conveniencie , so the substance be observed . Well , I conceive that a Prince upon such suggestions , upon dislike , in anger and indignation , might be drawn by his counsellours , neither can I but conceive , that these colours have been here represented to perswade , or to sooth . To be short , that fact so lamentable , and ( which I can never remember without lamenting ) every way in her own , and her husbands person , done by the Earle Bothwell , he murdering her husband , she marrying him , the matter seemed extreame strange and odious in the eyes of many . It is true , Bothwell was cleared , or rather not filed by an Assise ; but the Nobilitie judging him not to be sufficiently cleansed , but rather being fully perswaded that he was the authour of the murder , thought themselves bound in duty to bring him to a further triall . And howsoever he had married the Queen , yet did they not take themselves to be so farre bound in obedience to her , as in that regard to desist from all further inquiring into that Fact. Nay , it did rather move their indignation to see him who had committed so vile and execrable a murder , not onely to escape Scot-free , but to reap so large and rich a reward , as was the Queens own person . Besides , they thought the consequent might prove dangerous , if he who had massacred the father , and married the mother , should also have the son ( the onely barre and lett of his ambition , to establish the Crown to himself and his posteritie ) in his power and custodie . These were given out as the causes of their taking arms , which were very plausible to the vulgar , especially the safetie of the young Prince James . There is no question , they had also their own particular respects , which are seldome wanting , and do commonly concurre with the publick cause : wherefore there joyned together the Earles of Argyle , Glencairne , and Marre , the Lords Lindsay and Boyde . These bound themselves to pursue Bothwel , and to assist one another against whosoever would oppose them , especially to keep the young Prince from coming into Bothwels power . But Argyle repenting him , went the next morning to the Queen , and revealed all the matter , and the Lord Boyde also was at last perswaded with many fair promises , to forsake them , and joyn with Bothwell . The ●…st notwithstanding remained firme , with whom Morton took part . He thought he could do no lesse , being so near a kinsman to the late King , and so to the young Prince . It is true , he had been beholding to Bothwell , but no benefit could binde him to assist him in this case : for by so doing , he should have given some colourable ground to that report , which had so spred it self , that it was beleeved a while about the Court of England , that Murray and he were authours of the Kings murder . To have remained neutrall , would have been but ill taken on both sides . The Lord Hume , Cesford , and Balcleugh , though they had not subscribed with the other Lords , yet did they hate Bothwell , and were suspected to incline to the contrary Faction . The year preceding , Bothwel had made an in-rode upon Liddisdale , for the suppressing of theeves , and apprehending of out-lawed Borderers with bad successe , for he was wounded , and hardly escaped with his life . This year he resolves to repair his honour , and by some notable exploit , to gain the good-will of the people , which that he might the more easily do , the chief men of the name of Scot , and Ker , who were likely to hinder him , were commanded to enter into prison in the Castle of Edinburgh , and there to remain till his returne . But they fearing some worse meaning , went home to their houses . The Lord Hume also being summoned to enter , would not obey . Notwithstanding Bothwell goeth on with his intended journey , and so the Queen and he come to Borthwick Castle , there to make all things ready for this expedition . The adverse party thought this place was not unfit to surprize him in it : and therefore they appointed their Rendezvous at Liberton , whither Morton onely came . The Earle of Athole ( whither through his naturall slownesse or fearfulnesse ) by his not keeping that appointment , caused the rest to break also , and to stay still at Stirlin . The Lord Hume in hope to have been seconded , went directly to Borthwick , and lay about the Castle , but seeing no appearance of their coming , he kept such negligent watch , that the Queen and Bothwell escaped , and went back to the Castle of Dumbar . The Lords thus frustrated , went to Edinburgh to practise the Citizens there , and to draw them to their side , which they easily effected . The Castle was kept by Sir James Belfoure ( whom Bothwell had made Captain thereof , and who had been his intimate friend , and privie to all his secrets : But upon some distaste or distrust , Bothwell had sought to put him out of the place ; which he finding , had made himself full Master thereof : and he was now entred in termes of agreement , and capitulation with the Lords to put it into their hands , but had not yet concluded and transacted with them . There were in the City at this time of the other party , John Hamilton Bishop of S. Andrews , the Earle of Huntley , and the Bishop of Rosse John Lesly . These when they heard that the Lords were come into the Citie , came forth into the Street , hoping the Citizens would assist them and help them to expell the Lords ; but when they saw that few or none did resort to them , they fled to the Castle , where they were received ( the Captain thereof not having as yet agreed with the Lords ) and some few dayes after were let out at a posterne , and so escaped . In the mean time the Queen had sent abroad to assemble her forces . There came to her out of Lowthian , the Lords Seton , Yester , and Borthwick , small Barons , Waughton , Basse , and Ormeston . Out of the Merse , Sir David Hume of Wedderburne , with his Uncle Blackader , notwithstanding their Chief the Lord Hume , and his Cousin German Morton , were on the other side . Besides these , they had 200. hired Souldiers under the leading of Captain Anstrudder , mounting in all to 2000. and 500. with these they set forward from Dumbar , with intention to go to Leith , that so they might be nearer the enemy , and lose no opportunity of taking advantage of them . A wrong course , and ill advised : Whereas if they had but stayed a space in the Castle of Dumbar , the Lords not having sufficient forces to assault them there , nor Ordnance , or any other necessary provision for a seige , had been constrained to disperse themselves , and retire home to their own houses . Which if they had done , they might easily have been overthrown being separated and scattered , before they could have joyned their forces again . But there is a directour of all things , who had not ordained that Bothwell should prosper in his wayes ; which fell out also by his own temeritie , and the counsel of Master Edmond Hay ( his Lawyer ) who is said to have advised him thus , alledging that the Lords neither would nor durst abide their coming , but would presently flee upon the first noise of their approach ; and that if they did but once shew themselves in the fields , the Commons would all come flocking to them . But it fell out clean contrary , for neither did the people concurre with them ( because they hated Bothwell ) and the Lords having once taken Arms , were enforced by necessity to fight for their own safety . Their number was about some 2000. most part Gentlemen of good quality and ranke ; of the which , the chief were Morton , Marre , Athole , Glencairne , Montrose ; the Lords , Hume , Lindsay , Ruthven , Semple , and Sanwhere ; Small Barons , Cesford , Drumlenrigge , Tillebardine , Grange . They had no Artillerie , neither any Musketiers , save a few from Edinburgh . They caused to be drawn on their ensignes , the late King lying dead , and his young son the Prince James sitting on his knees , with his hands heaved up to Heaven with this Motto , Judge and revenge my cause , O LORD . While they were in Edinburgh , word was brought to them about midnight , that the Queen and Bothwell were come to Seton and Salt-Preston , within six miles of them . Whereupon they made haste , and having armed , went speedily toward Muscleburgh , lest the enemie should seize the Bridge and Foords of the River which was within two miles of Preston . So having passed it without disturbance a little after the Sun-rising , finding that the enemy did not stirre , they took their refreshment , and broke their fast at leasure . Not long after , those whom they had sent before to currie the fields , and to give notice what the enemie was about , having perceived a few horsemen without the village , drove them back again , but not daring to follow them for fear of some ambuscade , could learne nothing else , save that the enemie was ready to march . Hereupon the Lords also began to set forward toward them , and being now without the Towne of Muscleburgh they perceived the enemy , ranged in order of battell all along Carburie hill , ready to encounter them . The hill was steep , and the ascent difficult on that side , wherefore they turned a little to the right hand , where they might with more ease and lesse disadvantage ascend , the hill being there much plainer , and the ground more levell . This deceived the enemy , who seeing them turn aside , supposed they had fled to Dalketh , which belonged to Morton , and lay on that hand . But they being come where they would have been , set their men in order , having the Sun on their backs , and in the face of the enemie , which was no small advantage , for the day was exceeding hot , being the fifth of June 1567. besides , the Townes-men of Dalkeeth did furnish them sufficiently with drink , together with other villages that lay on that hand . But on Bothwels side it was not so , there was no such alacrity and readinesse in the people to supply them ; no foresight in themselves to provide , no chearfulnesse in the Army , but most of them wavering between their duty to the Queen , and their suspicion of Bothwels guiltinesse . Yet did they not offer to forsake her , neither would they have done it for anything we hear of , if Bothwell durst have stood to it . But his self-accusing conscience , struck his minde with such terrour and dread , that knowing what he had deserved , he judged other mens mindes to be accordingly affected toward him ; and seeing head made against him beyond his expectation , he began to doubt of the fidelity of those that were come to take part with him . Especially he distrusted Sir David Hume of Wedderburne , in regard of his friendship and Kinred with the Lord Hume , and Earle of Morton . Wherefore he moved the Queen to ask him whether he would abide constantly by her , and performe his part faithfully . He answered freely , that he was come to serve her , as his Soveraigne out of duty , and in sincerity , which he would do to the utmost of his power , against whomsoever , without respect of whatsoever friendship or kindred with any . Blackader said the like , and added withall , speaking to Bothwell , I wish my Lord , you stay as well by it , as we shall . That which made them the more to fear Sir David was , because a servant of his , as he went to drink at a well not farre from the enemie , was taken , and brought to Morton , who hearing whose man he was , dismissed him , and bade him tell his Master from him ; That if he were the man he should be , he alone might put an end to that dayes work , which is like enough he might have done , if either he would have revolted to the Lords , or forsaken Bothwell , and gone home . The rest of the Nobles and Gentlemen being in like manner exhorted by the Queen to fight valiantly , promised that for their own parts they would do it faithfully , but they said , the hearts of the common Souldiers were averse from Bothwell ; and thought it more reasonable that he should adventure his own Person in his own quarrell for maintaining his innocency , than that either her Majestie , or so many of her good Subjects should adventure or endanger their lives for him . But if she were resolved to trie the hazard of a battell , it was her best to deferre it till the next day , that the Hamiltons , who were on their journey , might joyne with them . As they were about to joyne battell , the French Ambassadour ( La Croque ) would have mediated a Peace , and came to the Lords , promising to obtain their pardon at the Queens hands for what was past , and that none of them should ever be called in question for their taking Armes against her , so that they would now lay them down , and proceed no further : Morton made answer , that they had not taken Armes against the Queen , but against Bothwell , who had murthered their King , whom if her Majestie would be pleased to abandon , they would quickly make it appear , that they desired nothing more than to continue in all dutifull obedience and allegeance to her , as became Loyall Subjects ; but so long as Bothwell remained unpunished , they could not in duty and conscience be so forgetfull of their late King , as not to avenge his murther . La Croque not being able to perswade them , retired to Edinburgh . All hope of peace and agreement being cut off , Bothwell being jealous of his Souldiers , and either intending in good earnest to fight , or for a Bravado , sent a Trumpet to the Lords to declare his innocency , in confidence whereof , if any would accuse him , and stand to his allegation , he was ready to maintain his cause against whosoever would attach him , in Duel , and single Combate . There were two of the Lords faction that undertook to make it good against him , William Kirkadie of Grange , and James Murray brother to Tilliberdine ; but he rejected these as not being his equals , and Peeres , he being an Earle , and they but Gentlemen onely . Wherefore he challenged Morton by name . He accepted of the challenge , and appointed the Weapons two-handed Swords , and to fight on foot . But the Lord Lindsay stepping forth , besought Morton and the rest , that for all the service that ever his Predecessours , or himself had done , or could do unto the country , that they would do him that honour as to suffer him to undertake that Combate ; which he said did also duly belong unto him , in regard of his nearnesse in bloud to the defunct King. They condescended , and Bothwell having nothing to accept against him , they prepared on both sides . Morton gave Lindsay the Sword which had been Earle Archbalds ( called commonly Bell the Cat ) wherewith he cut asunder Spenses thigh , as is shewed in his life . With this ( which Lindsay wore ever after ) and a buckler , as the manner then was , he presents himself before the Army , to attend Bothwels coming . But the Queen would not suffer him to fight , and interposing her authority , commanded him to desist . Then she sent a Herauld to the Lords , requiring them to send Grange to her , that she might conferre with him , and that in the mean time the Army should stand quiet . While the Queen did Parley with Grange , Bothwell ( as it had been fore-plotted ) conveyes himself secretly out of the Army , and fled to Dumbar . When the Queen had talked so long with Grange , as that Bothwell had time enough to escape , and be out of their reach , free from all danger of being overtaken , she went with him to the Lords ; and desiring them to suffer her Army to depart in safetie ( which they easily granted ) she dismissed them . Then she requested , that she might go to the Hamiltons , who were not farre off , at Corstorphing , to give them thanks for their good will , promising faithfully to return , whereupon she desired Morton to passe his word , and be suretie for her . A strange request for her to ask in such a case ; farre stranger for them to have granted , or for Morton to have undertaken that which lay not in his power to , see performed . Bothwell had escaped to their great grief and discontentment ; the Queen onely remained , the pledge of peace , and foile of their enemies , who wanting her did want a head . Therefore her suite was denied , and she brought to Edinburgh . There a consultation was held , what were fittest to be done with her . Amongst great diversitie of opinions , Morton would by no means yeeld to have her life meddled withall , desiring onely that some such course might be taken , as that the professed Religion might not be prejudiced , and that they themselves might be secured from future danger . Yet there were some that pressed the matter very hard against him , alledging that there was no possibilitie , either to preserve Religion , or secure themselves , so long as she were alive . Promises were to no purpose , and of no value . They might be easily eluded , as proceeding from a just fear , and compulsion , as they would call it . And to imprison her were no better ; seeing there would not want a party ere long to set her free . And though there were no party , yet she her self might use means to escape , and others might help her ; yea , without all these , time and occasion would work her delivery . Nay some went so far with him , as to denounce GODS judgements against him , as a hinderer of the execution of justice , which he himself should feele upon his own person , because he would not give way to it in the person of another . For it is but justice ( said they ) else if it be unlawfull , so is this detaining of her unlawfull , and whatsoever we have done is unlawfull , and flat treason . All this notwithstanding , Morton would not consent unto it , but made answer , That howsoever they had gone thus farre being drawne to it by necessity , for the preservation of Religion , the good of their Countrey , their own honour and credit , and even led by nature to look to their own safetie , yet they ought not to meddle with the life of their Sovereigne . To secure themselves , it was sufficient to have her kept in some place of suretie and strength , which he thought even too much , if he could see any other remedie . And so it was concluded , that shee should be sent to Logh-leven , there to be kept by William Douglas owner thereof , a very honest Gentleman , and who had sided with neither Partie . And although the same matter was agitate again , while she remained in Logh-leven ( the 25. of August , at a solemne meeting of the Estates , after Murray was come home , and had accepted the Regencie ) and many did incline to have her executed , ( some out of zeal to Religion , and love of Justice , as they deemed it ) some out of love to the Hamiltons , ( who by her death would be but one step from the Crown ) yet Morton stuck to his former opinion and resolution : Shee was no sooner committed , but some began to plot her deliverie ; supposing that undoubtedly she would get out at last by one mean or other , they strove to anticipate her favour , and make her beholding to them for that which could not faile to come to passe . Neither did they fear the consequent , if once she were set at libertie , for they made no question to make their partie good . The authoritie was hers , time would make the peoples heart to relent and fold to their naturall Princesse ; the Faction that was against her , was the weaker ; and diversitie of opinions would bring forth division amongst them . Of those that sought her favour , Sir William Metellane Secretarie was one . His dis-like and hatred of Bothwell , had made him joyne with the Lords : being now rid of him , he returned to his old byas again , and bent his course toward her . But not daring to do it openly , he wrote privately to her , and assured her of his good-will , and promised his best endeavour to serve her ; and that howsoever his power were none of the greatest , he shewed that he might prove steadable to her by the Apologue of the Lion , which being taken in a net , was delivered from thence by the help of a Mouse , that did shear the net , and cut it in pieces with her teeth . Morton did constantly prosecute the course begun , with great courage and wisedome , over-coming all difficulties before the Earle of Murrays returne ( who had gone to France in the beginning of these stirres ) which were neither small , nor few . His Associates found them moe than they had expected . They had promised themselves the approbation of all men , and that all would joyne with them , at least , the best affected . It fell out otherwise ; time diminished envie , change of their Princes estate begate pity , fear of the event kept aloof ; doubt of dutie restrained some , and desire of rest and securitie , others . So that no new Forces came to them ; but on the contrary , some of their own side forsook them , and went to the other ; new hopes not onely cooling , but even changing their affections . Wherefore they were much perplexed , and had it not been for Morton , they had quite deserted the cause . But he perswaded them to keep together at Edinburgh , and to write to the other Lords that were assembled at Hamilton , to desire them to come to Edinburgh , that so they might consult together what were fittest to bee done for the good and peace of the Kingdome . But they would neither receive Letter nor Message , saying , It was great presumption in them to have possessed themselves of the chief City , and to offer to send for them , and not to come to them , who were ( so they thought ) the stronger , and had the better cause . The others to give them satisfaction in that point , caused the Ministers of Edinburgh to write to them jointly , as also severally to their particular friends and acquaintance , both to excuse that which they took exception at , ( which they told they had done , not because they did challenge or claime any preeminence or prerogative to themselves beyond them , or for any other cause , save onely the conveniencie of the place for both parties to meet in ) and withall to exhort them , that in so perillous a time , setting aside all particular respects and quarrels , they would have a care of the common good of the Countrey . But these Letters prevailed no more than the former . Yet though they would not concurre with them , they did nothing against them ; whether because they were not able ( they being within the town of Edinburgh ) or , because they did not agree among themselves , or that they wanted a Commission , and a sufficient Warrant from the Queen , they dissolved , and returned every man to his own home . This their attempt to have kept some forme of meeting and Parliament in the Queens name , admonished the Lords to take away that which would beare greatest shew against them , the Queens authoritie . Wherefore they deale with her to resigne it to her sonne , which she was very loath to do ; yet at last shee consented to it , and having subscribed a formall renunciation and dimission : shee made also , and signed a Procuration , or Letters of Attourney , to cause crown her sonne at Stirlin , or where they pleased . She named likewise his Curators , Murray ( if he would accept of it at his returne ) failing him , these seven ; The Duke ( Hamilton ) Lennox ( the Childes grandfather ) Argyle , Morton , Glencairne , Marre , and Athole . It was presently put in execution , for within two dayes ( the 26. of July ) the Prince was crowned at Stirlin , being then thirteen moneths , and eight dayes old . Morton and the Lord Hume took the Oath for him , that he should observe the Laws , and maintain the Religion then professed . Master Knox made the Sermon , the Coronation was also performed by him , and two Super-intendents . Having gained this point , they had now this advantage of the others , that not only were their enemies deprived of the countenance and colour of authoritie , but they themselves were armed therewith . And thus they remained till Murrays returne , who at first would not accept of the Place , which by the Queens direction was reserved for him , but being pressed by the rest , that they might have an established and certain Head , he yeelded to their requests , and took the Place and charge of Regent upon him . From this time forward , Murray being Regent , according as did belong unto his place , hee was chief Commander in every thing , yet was hee assisted by Mortons faithfull counsell and advice , who did also many times supply the publick wants with his private meanes , in times of greatest necessitie . Especially when Bothwell was to be pursued , who having put forth to sea , and being turned Pirate , lay about Orknay , robbing all that came in his way , without fear of being followed , knowing wel that there was no money in the treasurie ( he himself having emptied it ) to rig out any shipping against him . Then did Morton on his own charges provide Vessells , hire Mariners and Souldiours to go out after him . This was the fruit of his good husbandrie , and the good use he made of his parsimonie and menagerie . Grange was sent Admirall , who came so suddenly upon him , that he had well-nigh taken him before he was aware , yet he escaped in a light Pinnace over a craig in the sea , with such hazard , that it is thought to have grazed upon it . The Lion which followed after , being a Ship of greater bulk and burden , and which drew more water , stuck fast upon it , so that the men were constrained to betake themselves to their Cock-boat . The Bishop of Orknay ( Bothwell to his name , who was father to the Lord Haly-rude-house ) was last in the Ship , and seeing the Boat loosing , called to them to stay for him ; but they being already sufficiently laden , would not hear him . He seeing no other remedy , leapt into the Boat , having on him a Corselet of proof , which was thought a strange leap , especially not to have over-turned the Boat. Thus the men were all saved , and the Earle Bothwell sailed to Denmark . There being examined what he was , and whence he came : when he did not answer clearly and distinctly , he was cast into prison , and having lien there ten years , at last he died mad . The 15. of December , a Parliament was held at Edinburgh , where most part of the Nobilitie were present , and amongst others , the Earle of Huntley , which when the Queen heard of , she said , Bothwell might as well have been there , as he ; meaning that they were both alike guiltie . In this Parliament , the Queens resignation of the Crown , the Kings Coronation , and Murrays Regencie were confirmed , their Fact was approved that had taken the Queen at Carburie , and William Douglas was authorized to keep her still in the Castle of Logh-leven . Things being thus settled , the Regent being acknowledged of all , and his authoritie ratified , Religion established , & the fear of Bothwel removed , they seemed to be in great suretie , yet were they never lesse sure ; for these very things which seemed to make them strong and sure , were the causes of change , for many did envie the Regent , some hated Religion , and others there were , that being rid of Bothwell , applied themselves to the Queen , whom only out of hatred to Bothwell , they had forsaken . Of the last sort was Secretary Metellane , of the second Tillebardin , who had also some particular against the Regent , which Writers do not specifie . The Hamiltons were of the first Rank , who thought themselves injured by him , and esteemed his Office due to them , together with Argyle , whose mother and Huntley , whose wife was of the house of Hamilton . These had some hopes from France , where Beton Archbishop of Glasgow , lay as Lieger for the Queen , and fed them with faire promises of men and money . Yet they carried things very closely , and made shew of friendship to those of the Kings side , till such time as the Queen escaped out of Logh-leven , by the means of George Douglas brother to William of Loghleven , and to the Regent also by his mother . This George had corrupted a naturall brother of his who was often trusted by William with the Keyes of the Castle . One day William being at dinner , this man desired the Keyes of him ( as he had done divers times before ) to let out the Queens waiting Gentlewoman ; and having gotten them , he let out the Queen her self in her Gentlewomans apparell , and masked . He also went out with her , and having locked the Gates , threw the Keyes into the Lake , and rowed the Queen over in the Boat to the Lake side , where George and Tillibarne were staying for her with nine horse onely . Our Writers say , it was without the mothers knowledge ; but others affirme , that she had a hand in it , being moved with pity and commiseration to see her Princesse in such estate ; and upon the Queens promise to preferre her sonne George , and pardon her other friends that were on her contrary faction ; amongst which we hear no mention of Murray . Morton also was le●…t out ; onely it was agreed upon that his forfeiture should not prejudice their right to the Earledome of Morton . This fell out the second day of May 1568. She went that night to Nidderie , where by the way the Lord Seton , and John Hamilton of Orbiston did meet her : and the next day they went to Hamilton with 500. horse . The Regent was then at Glasgow , keeping of justice Courts . When these news were brought to him , some counselled him to go to Stirlin , where the King was , and where he would be the stronger . But William Douglas of Drumlenrig , not having the patience to stay till it came to his turne to speak , and before his opinion was asked : If you do so my Lord ( sayes he ) I will get me straight to the Queen , as Boyde hath done . For Boyde indeed was gone to her , with intention ( as he would have made them beleeve ) to play Husha's part ; for he wrote back to Morton by his sonne , that he would be more steadable , and do them better service being with her , than if he should remain with them . There is a Proverb , a foot backward , a mile backward , a mile a million , and so never forward : Whereby is signified , that there is much moment in the beginnings and first efforts , and great danger in recoiling , and letting slip the present opportunitie . So thought Drumlenrig , and the Lord Semple also was of his minde . Morton did confirme their opinion , and reduced at large how necessary it was for them to stay still in Glasgow , shewing that it was their best to make all the haste they could , & that their safetie did consist in celeritie ; in regard that so soon as it were known that she was at libertie , the opinion of her authoritie and name of a Queen would daily draw more and more followers to her : especially seeing the most remote parts of the Kingdome were most affectionated to her service . We are enough here ( said he ) together with the Towns men ( who being enemies to the Hamiltons , we need not doubt of their fidelittie ) to keep this place , and make it good against them . The Cunninghames and Semples ( potent families ) are hard at hand , and so is the Lennox , the Kings own patrimonie : Neither is Douglas-dale very farre off , nor Stirlin-Shire , and the Earle of Marres Forces . These will suffice to oppose the enemie till such time as our friends that dwell further off , be advertised . Mortons judgement was respected , and his opinion followed ; whereupon messengers were immediatly dispatched , and sent into Lowthian , and the Merse , and other parts which lay farre off , to give them notice of their danger , and of their intentions ; and to desire them to make all the haste that possibly they could to come to their aid , and assistance . The first that came was the Lord Hume with 600. horse the ninth of May ; upon his arrivall , they intended to go directly to Hamilton , and dare the enemie , and force him to fight . But that same night ( ere morning ) word was brought them , that they were gathering their forces , and mustering their men to take the fields ; for having gotten together 6000. men , and knowing by certain intelligence , that they were not above 4000 with the Regent , confiding in their number , they purposed to carry the Queen to the castle of Dumbartan , where she remaining in a place of safety , they might manage , and prosecute the warre according to their pleasure ; and either use expedition therein , or draw it out at length , and linger as they should see cause , and finde it most for their advantage . The Regent ghessing what their aime was , led also his armie forth into Glasgow-Moore , supposing they would have gone that way : but when he saw them on the South side of the river of Clide , he made haste , and crossed the river at the Bridge and Foords , to be before them in their way . I have heard it reported by those that live there about , that the Queens Souldiers did essay to passe the river , and come to that side where the Regent was , but one or two of the foremost being slain by his men , the rest refused to go on with such hazard and disadvantage , and therefore they took the way of Rutherglem , which leads to Dumbartan . The Regent perceiving their intent , commanded the horsemen to hye them quickly to Langside Hill ; which they did , and the rest of the Army followed them so fast , as that they were all got thither , before the enemie understood their meaning . Two things made for the Regents advantage ; one was Argyles sicknesse , who being overtaken with a sudden fit of an Epilepsie , or Apoplexie , the Army halted , and thereby gave the Regent time to choose his ground , though he came a further way about . The other was , their confidence in their number , and despising of the small number of their enemies , who were indeed fewer than they , yet were they moe than they were aware of . For having marched over hils and dales , they never had a full view of them to know their number aright and perfectly . When they came within a little of the hill , perceiving that it was already taken by the Regent , they retired to another little hil just over against it , where they drew up their Companies , and put their men in order . Argyle was Lieutenant , and led the Rere-ward . With him there was the Earles of Cassils , Eglinton , and Rothuse , the Lords Seton , Somervaile , Yester , Borthwick , Sanwhere , Boyde , and Rosse , with divers Gentlemen of good quality . The Vant-guard was committed to Claude Hamilton of Pasley sonne to the Duke , and Sir James Hamilton of Evendale , consisting most of Hamiltons , together with their friends and followers . James Stuart of Castleton , and Arthur Hamilton of Mirrinton , were Commanders of the Musketiers , which were some 300. The Lord Harris commanded the horsemen , which were most part Borderers , dependers and servants to his brother the Lord Maxwell . The Regent did likewise divide his men in two battels , the Vant-guard was conducted by Morton , with whom were the Lord Hume , and Semple . The Regent himself was in the Reer , and with him Marre , Glencairne , Monteith , the Lord Ruthven , Ochletree , and Kirkart , with the small Barons of the Lennox , and the Citizens of Glasgow . The horsemen were committed to William Douglas of Drumlenrig , and Alexander Hume of Manderston , and John Carmichell of Carmichell . They were inferiour in horse , and therefore upon the first encounter they retired , and fell back to the footmen , who made out to succour them , and drave back the enemies horse by the means of the High-Landers , especially who bestowed a flight of arrowes amongst them , and so galled them , that they could no longer endure it . The Queens Vant-guard coming to joyn battell with the Vant-guard of the enemy ; marched through a narrow Lane , near unto which the Regents shot were placed in the Yards , Gardens , and Orchards of the Village of Langside so conveniently , that they being at covert did annoy the enemie , and shoot at them as at a mark without any danger , or hurt to themselves . In this Lane many were slain before they could get through ; and having passed it they were assaulted by Morton very fiercely with Pikes and Speares , and other long Weapons on both sides of the Lane. They fought very eagerly a while , in so much that when their long Weapons were broken , being so close together , that they could not draw their Swords , they fell to it with Daggers , and Stones , and and what so came readiest to hand . In the midst and heat of the fight , Mackfarlane with his High-Landers fled out of the last Ranks of the Regents Companies ( as our Writers say ) but indeed it was from this wing where they were placed , as I have heard it of those that were present . The Lord Lindsay , who stood next to him in the Regents own battell , when he saw them go away ; Let them go ( saith he ) and be not afraid , I shall supply their place : and withall stepping forward with his Company , charged the enemy afresh . Their long Weapons being broken , and themselves well nigh overcome before , they were not able to sustaine a new impression , but turned their backs , and fled . The Regent and his Squadron stood still and kept their Ranks and places , till they saw that the victory was clearly theirs , and that the enemy did flee disorderly ; then they also brake their order and followed the chase , in the which moe were killed , than in the fight ; and that most part by the High-Landers : who seeing that their side had the day , returned and made great slaughter to make amends for their former fleeing . There were many wounded , and many taken , but 300. slain , who had been many moe , had not the Regent sent horsemen throughout all quarters with command to spare the fleers . There were taken of note , The Lord Seton , and Rosse , Sir James Hamilton , the Sheriff of Aire , and Linlithgow with others . On the Victors side one man onely slain , John Balonie of Preston in the Merse , a servant of Mortons : few hurt , the Lord Hume with a stone on the face very ill : and Andrew Stuart Lord Ochletree , by the Lord Harris . The Queen , who stood as a spectatour about a mile off , seeing the field lost , fled away with the Lord Harris , and his horsemen . For after he was repulsed by the Regents Vant-guard , and the High-Landers , he went to her , and stayed by her . From thence she fled to England , suspecting the Lord Harris his fidelitie . Some do reckon amongst the causes of this victory , a contention which fell out between John Stuart , and Arthur Hamilton , two Captains of the Queens Musquetiers , who that morning before they set out , strove for precedencie , and the matter being referred to the Queens decision , she adjudged it to Stuart for the names sake and because he had been sometime Captain of her Guard. Hamilton took this so ill , that when they came neare to the enemie , he cryed out aloud , Where are now these Stuarts that did contest for the first place , let him now come and take it . The other hearing him , answered presently : And so I will , neither shalt thou , nor any Hamilton in Scotland set his foot before me to day : whereupon they rushed forward unadvisedly , and were followed as inconsiderately by Claude Hamilton of Pasley , with the Vantguard , which was the occasion of their disconfiture . The battell was fought the 13. of May , eleven dayes after the Queen came out of Logh-leven . The Regent returned to Glasgow , and after publick thanksgiving for the victorie , and mutuall congratulation , the rest of the day was spent in taking order with the prisoners . Morton sought to have had the Lord Seton in his keeping , but he was withstood by Andrew Ker of Fadunside , whose prisoner he was , whether out of fear of hard dealing towards him , or lest he should lose his thanks in saving of him , wherefore Morton modestly desisted . The day after they went into Cliddesdale , and cast down Draphan , and some Houses that belonged to the Hamiltons . Afterward there was a day appointed for a Convention of the Estates at Edinburgh , for staying of which the other faction did use all possible means . They caused rumours to be spread of some help to come out of France ; which had come indeed under the conduct of Martige ( of the House of Luxemburg ) but that the Civill Warres at home made him to be called back again . The Earle of Argyle came to Glasgow with 600. horse , and had some conference with the Hamiltons , and others of that faction , but they not agreeing , he went home again and did nothing . Huntley also with 1000. men was coming toward Edinburgh , and was on his journey as farre as the water of Erne ; but the Bridges and Foords being guarded by the Lord Ruthven , he went likewise home again . Last of all they procured Letters from the Queen of England , in which she desired that they would delay the meeting till such time as she were informed of their proceedings , and justnesse of their cause , why they took Arms against their Queen her Cousin , of whose wrongs she behooved to take notice , and be sensible . It was hard to offend her , but harderto suffer their adversaries to gain the poynt they aimed at , which was in the Queens name , and by her authoritie to keep a meeting , and to forfeit all those who were on the K. side , having already appointed a day for that purpose . Wherefore they go on with their Convention , and punish some few for example to terrifie others . And for suppressing the daily incursions of the Niddisdale , Anandale , and Galloway men , they raised an Army of 5000. horse , and 1000. Musketiers ; which expedition , because it was memorable for the extreame scarcitie of victuals when they came to Hoddam , was called , The Roade of Hoddam : They set forth from Edinburgh the 11 of June , and returned thither againe the 26. The chief thing that they did in that journey , was , that they seized the houses of Bog-hall , Crawford , Sanwhere , Logh-wood , Hoddam , Logh-Maban , and Annand . Logh-Maban is a house of the Kings , and was then in the Lord Maxwels keeping : but now being surrendred , Drumlenrigge is made keeper of it , who was also made Warden of the West Marches . Assoone as the Regent was gone from thence with his Armie , Maxwels folks , who had hidden themselves in some secret corner of the Castle , turned out Drumlenrigges men , and re-possessed themselves thereof again . Logh-wood belonged to Johnston , Hoddam to the Lord Harris , and the rest to their severall Lords and Owners , which were all spared , on hope of their promised obedience : Onely Skirlin was razed , and Ken-Moore , a house of Loghen-varres , who was obstinate , and would not yeeld upon any condition . The Regent and Morton sent Sir David Hume of Wedderburne to him , who was brother to his wife , but no entreatie nor threatning could prevail with him , or move him to submit himselfe : When they threatned to pull down his house , he said , They should by so doing save him a labour ; for he meant to take it down himselfe , and build it up again better : Which was performed on both sides : for it was cast down ( the 16 of July ) and he did afterward re-edifie it much better . Many yeelded , divers stood out , of whom there came a thousand within a mile of the Regents Camp. Who were their heads , is not mentioned , but as yet Maxwel , Johnston , Loghen-varre , and Cowehill were not come in ; and whether it were any of these , or some other , we have not learned . Morton and the Lord Hume with a thousand horse went out against them , but they were gone before they came neere , and fled to the Boggs and waste Marishes . In their return , at Peebles they received Letters again from the Queen of England , wherein she renewed her former request to them , that they would send some up to her to inform her of the equity of their cause . The Regent himselfe undertakes the journey , with whom went Morton , Lindsay , the Bishop of Orknay , Master Pitcarne Abbot of Dumfermeling , Sir William Metellan Secretary , Master James Mackgill , Master Henry Banaves , and Master George Buchanan . The Queene having heard their Justification and Defences , made answer , That she saw nothing for the present to object against their proceedings , yet she desired them to leave some of their company behinde , to answer to such things as might be objected afterward by their Queens Ambassadours . While they are there , Duke Hamilton came over out of France , and desired the Queene of England to cause Murray give over the Regents place to him , being ( as he alledged ) his due , seeing he was next heire to the Crowne . But the Queen perceiving that he intended to make some stirre , and to raise new troubles in Scotland , commanded him to stay , and not depart till he were licensed . The Regent with his company was dismissed , and returned into Scotland the 2 of February . Within a while after , the Duke returned also , being made Lieutenant for the imprisoned Queene , and adopted to be her father . He sent forth his Proclamations , commanding that no authority should be obeyed , but his , which no man would obey : And that none might fear him , the Regent went to Glasgow with an Armie , and there Hamilton came to him , and promising to acknowledge the King and Regents authoritie , he gave pledges to be kept , till such time as he should do it , prefixing a day when he would come in . When the day was come , he came to Edinburgh , and began to shift , and desire a longer day , while he might have the Queens consent . Then being asked what he would do if the Queen would not give her consent ; he answered , that he would do nothing ; and what he had done already , he had done it out of fear . Hereupon he and the Lord Harris were sent to prison in the Castle of Edinburgh . The next to be taken order with , were Argyle , and Huntley . Both had been busie in the Regents absence , but not alike . Argyle had onely showne himself in the fields , but had done hurt to no man. Huntleys case was worse , he had vexed the Mernes and Angus , made Lieutenants about the water of Dee , and behaved himself in all things as if he had been King. After much debate , Argyle was onely made to take an oath , that he should be obedient in time coming ; and Huntley was also pardoned , save that he was ordained to make satisfaction and restitution to the parties who were robbed and spoyled by him and his followers . For the performance of which , the Regent and Morton went to Aberdene , Elgin , and Inner-nesse , with two Companies of Harquebusiers , and Musquetiers , where having received hostages and sureties of Huntley , they returne to Perth , to hold a Convention of the States . Thither were brought two Packets of Letters from the two Queens . The Queen of England made three Propositions . First , that the Kings Mother might be restored to her former Place and Crown . Secondly , that if they would not yeeld to that , yet that her name might be used in all Writs , and joyned with her sonnes , and that the Government should continue in the Regents hands . The third & last was , that if none of these could be granted , she might be suffered to live a private life , as another subject , with as much respect and honour as could be given to her , without prejudice of the King. This last was accepted , the rest rejected . Queen Mary in her Letters desired , that the Judges might determine of her marriage with Bothwel , and if it were found to be unlawfull , that they would declare it to be null , and pronounce her free from him . To this they answered , that they saw no reason of such haste . He being absent , and out of the Countrey beyond sea , the laws allowed him threescore dayes after he was summoned at the shore and Peer of Leith ; before which time were expired , the Judges could not give out any sentence . But if she had such a minde to be rid of him , her shortest cut were to write to the King of Denmark , to execute him for his murder and Piracie . The reason why they would not have her marriage with Bothwel dissolved , was , to hinder her matching with the Duke of Northfolk , who would not adventure upon uncertainties ; & he could not be sure , so long as her marriage with Bothwel stood firm ; he being alive , & no legal divorcement had bin yet obtained . So they thought by this dilator , they would gain time , & time might work out some better effect than did appear for the present . For the Regents friends in England had written to him , That Northfolks Plot and the Queens , was so laid , so strong and cunningly conveighed , that no power , wit , or wisedome was able to resist it ; yea , though all the rest of Brittain would oppose it , yet he remained steadfast , and sent to the Queen of England one of his Domesticks , to acquaint her with Queen Maries Petition , and their answer . But she not being satisfied with the Bearer , Robert Pitcarne ( Abbot of Dumfermling ) was sent to her from a Convention holden at Stirlin for the nonce . About the very same time that he came to London , the Duke of Northfolke was committed to the Tower ( the 11. of October ) and the conspiracie discovered , the partie still remaining so strong , that she not daring to meddle with Queen Mary , was purposed to have sent her into Scotland by sea ; but things beginning to settle , she altered that resolution . Now in considence of this so strong a partie , Secretary Metellane had taken himself to that side , and stirred up all he could against the Regent . He had so dealt with the Lord Hume , and Grange ( Captain of the Castle of Edinburgh ) that he had brought them over to that party . Hereupon he is sent for to Stirlin , whither he came , and brought along with him , the Earle of Athole to intercede for him , if need were . There Thomas Crawford ( afterward Captain Crawford ) a follower of the Earle of Lennox , accused him of being accessarie to the late Kings death ; whereupon he was committed to a close chamber in the Castle . Sir James Balfoure ( one of his Complices ) was also sent for , and the Convention were of opinion , that both of them should be used as enemies to the King , and guiltie of treason . But the Regents lenitie marred all ; he pardoned Sir James , and sent Metellane to Edinburgh , to be kept by Alexander Hume of North-Berwick . Grange counterfeiting the Regents hand , brought a Warrant to Alexander , to deliver Metellane to him , which he did ; and so Grange carried him up to the Castle . After this , the Regent went to the Merse , and spake with the Lord Hume , whom he found to be alienate from the Kings side , and inclined to the North-folcian Faction . From thence he went to Jedburgh , where Morton and others came to him . He past with them to Hawick ( the 20. of October ) and from thence he rode through the whole Dales ; he riding on the Scottish side upon the Borders , and a Company of Englishmen on the English side , that they might not flee from one side to another , nor any of them escape . He lay two nights at Cannabee , one at Copshae-holme , two on the water of Milke , and so came to Dumfreis . In this circuite he constrained the Borderers to put in pledges and hostages ( to the number of 72. ) for keeping of the peace and good order , whereby he gave great contentment to the whole Countrey , and gained great reputation and admiration , even of his very enemies . He returned to Edinburgh before the 21. of November , the day appointed for the triall and arraignment of Secretary Metellane . There finding that he had assembled so many great men that were for him ( Hamilton , Huntley , Argyle , and others ) he adjourned the arraignment , and deferred the judgement . That Faction was now become very powerfull ; many were fallen off from the Regent , many had joyned themselves to the North folcians , relying mainly on the Dukes power . And although he were now committed , yet the Faction held good , and the plot went on . The Earles of Northumberland , and Westmerland , with six thousand Foot , and two thousand Horse , came with displayed Banner to Durham , and there burnt the Bible and Service-Book , heard Masse in Darnton , and besieged Bernard-Castle , which was rendered upon composition . But being pursued by the Earle of Warwick , with an Army of twelve thousand , and Sussex with another of seven thousand men , they were forced to flee into Scotland about the 22. of December , and put themselves into the hands of theeves that lived on the Scottish Border , with whom they abode and lurked a while , but not very long . For Morton dealt with one Hector Arme-strang , by Sir John Carmichael , and got the Earle of Northumberland into his hands , and delivered him to the Regent ; hee sent him to bee kept in Logh-leven a prisoner , being an enemie no lesse to him and the Kings side , than to Queen Elizabeth . This made her give the better ear to Robert Pitcarne , Ambassadour from the Regent , and to desist from requesting any more , that Queen Mary might be restored again to her former place and estate . Shee declared also , that she took that which the Regent had done very kindely in pacifying the Borders , apprehending Northumberland , and imprisoning of him , pursuing Westmerland and his Faction , as enemies , his offering his best aid and assistance to her Captains and Governour of Berwick . She promised to be ever mindefull of these his good offices , and good-will shewed towards her , and that she should be readie to aid him when he should need ; yea , that he might use and command all the Forces in England as his own . Thus by the over-throw of the English Rebels , by the favour of the Queen of England , and the love of his Countrey people at home , the Regent was more strengthened , and the Kings side became the more powerfull . His adversaries therefore seeing no other remedie resolved to cut him off , and make him away by treachery . James Hamilton of Bothwell-hawke , ( one whose life the Regent had spared before , when he was taken prisoner in the field bearing arms against him ) under-took to kill him . Wherefore having watched his opportunitie , when the Regent was at Lithgow , he placed himself in a house there , by which the Regent was to passe as he rode out of the town , and shot him with an Harquebuse out at a window ; the Bullet whereof , after it had gone through the Regent , killed the Horse of George Douglas of Park-head , a naturall brother of the Earle Mortons . This fell out the 21. of January 1569. The Regent finding himself hurt , alighted from his horse , went to his lodging , and died ere midnight . Bothwell-hawke , who had done the deed , having mounted upon a horse which hee had standing ready for him of purpose , escaped untaken . He was much lamented of all , but especially of Morton , who had best reason to be sensible of this losse , seeing by his death the common cause did want a main pillar and supporter thereof ; and the Kings side which he followed , was deprived of a sufficient and able leader . He himself also had lost a dear friend , with whom he had so long entertained honest and faithfull friendship , and who had borne so great a part of that heavie burden , and weight of State affairs with him . For now the whole burden of guiding the Kingdome and managing the State lay upon him almost alone , and that even in the time of the two succeeding Regents , for the space of some three years , or thereby . They indeed bare the name , and the authoritie , but he was the man by whose advice and counsell , by whose travels and paines both of body and minde , yea and upon whose charges also ( often times ) most things were performed , till at last he himself was chosen Regent , and did then all things alone without a helper . This was well known to all , and was plainly spoken in the time of Lennox his Regencie . A staff under a Hood ( so they termed Lennox . ) Morton rules all . Yet was it not so altogether , neither was Lennox so devoide of judgement , but behaved himself very well , very judiciously , courageously , and courtiously ( even in Mortons absence ) in the taking of Pasley and Dumbartan , and in his courteous usage of the Lady Fleming , who was within the Castle of Dumbartan . Onely because matters seemed to rely most upon Mortons good advice , action , and means ; the ruder interpreters made that hard construction of it , as if Morton , because he did much , had therefore done all , as commonly men are wont to judge and speak . And it is very true that is said of Lennox in that Epitaph of him , samam virtute refellit . Yet it cannot be denied , but that even while Murray was Regent , Morton did very much ; and though ●…e were not equall with him in place and dignitie , for there was but one Regent , yet he was such a second as might well be esteemed a yoke-fellow both in consulting and performing , being a partaker with him in all perrils and burdens . So that of all that is set down here of Murray , Morton was ever an equall sharer , and may justly challenge the one half as his due . And therefore it is that we have been so particular , and insisted so long in Murrayes actions , because of Mortons perpetuall concurrence with him in all things , and his interest in every businesse . Wherefore we hope it will not be thought impertinent to our Historie thus to have handled them , although Morton were not the sole actor , since he was a prime and maine one . For whoso will rightly consider , shall finde that saying to be true of these two , which Permenio said of Alexander and himself ( Nihil Alexander absque Permenione , multa Permenio absque Alexandro ) being applied to Morton . For Morton did many things without Murray , but Murray nothing without Morton . And thus it went even when Murray was alive , when all acknowledged his authority . Now he being dead , many swarved , many made defection ; and , as if they had forgotten what they had promised , became open enemies . The Kings party was weakened , the adverse party strengthened both by forrain and home-bred power . Fear might have terrified him , ease sollicited , honour and profit allured him to have left it , and joyned with the other side . But he shrinks not for any perill , hatred , or envie , for no pains or travell to be sustained , no case or security could allure him , no hope of favour , of riches , of honour could move him to abandon it . Which doth evidently justifie , and clear him of all the imputations which the wit of man can devise , or imagine against him . Whether it be that he conspired with Murray to make him King : he was now dead , and that hope with him : Or if it be any particular end and aime of his own , what appearance is there that he could have any private end , which he followed forth with certain danger , and uncertain event , or profit ? For clearing of which , let us weigh the parties , and the forces and meanes at home and abroad on both sides . First there were of the Queens side Duke Hamilton , Argyle , Athole , Huntley , almost all pettie Princes in their severall Countries and Shires . Also the Earles of Crawford , Rothuse , Eglinton , Cassils , the Lord Harris , with all the Maxwels , Loghenvarre , Johnston , the Lord Seton , Boyde , Gray , Oglevie , Levingston , Flemin , Oliphant , the Sheriff of Air , and Linlithgow , Balcleugh , Farnihast , and Tillibardine . The Lord Hume did also countenance them , though few of his friends or name were with him , safe one meane man , Ferdinando of Broom-house . Metellan the Secretarie ( a great Polititian ) and Grange an active Gentleman , who was Captain of the Castle and Provest of the Town of Edinburgh ; they had the chief Castles and places of strength in their hands , Edinburgh , Dumbartan , Logh-Maban . France did assist them , Spain did favour them , and so did his Holinesse of Rome , together with all the Roman Catholiques every where . Their faction in England was great , all the North-folcians , Papists , and male-contents had their eye upon Queen Mary . Neither was she ( though in prison ) altogether unusefull to her side : for besides her countenance , and colour of her authoritie ( which prevailed with some ) she had her rents in France , and her Jewels , wherewith she did both support the common cause , and reward her private servants and followers ; especially they served her to furnish Agents and Ambassadours to plead her cause , and importune her friends at the Court of France , and England ; who were helped by the banished Lords , Dacres , and Westmoreland , to stirre up forraine Princes all they could . Thus was that partie now grown great , so that it might seeme both safe , and most advantagious to follow it . The other was almost abandoned , there were but three Earles that took part with Morton at first ; Lennox , Marre , Glencairne . Neither were these comparable to any one of the foremost foure . In Fyfe there was the Lord Lindsay , and Glames in Angus , no such great men , and no wayes equall to Crawford , and Rothuse . The Lord Semple was but a simple one in respect of Cassils , Maxwell , Loghenvarre , and others . Methvaine in Stratherne a very mean Lord ; Ochletree amongst the meanest that bare the title of a Lord , and yet Kirkart was meaner than he , both in men and means . Neither was Ruthven so great , but that Tillibardine , and Oliphant were able to overmatch him . They had no Castles but Stirlin and Tantallon , which belonged to Morton . The commons indeed were very forwardly set that way , but how uncertaine and unsure a prop is the vulgar ? England did befriend them some times , but not so fully as they needed ; and even so farre as did concern their own safetie . So that when all is duely considered , we shall not finde any ground for one to build on , that would seek nothing else , but his own private ends of honour or preferment . Wherefore it is no wonder if Secretarie Metellane , and Grange ( men that sought themselves onely ) did joyne with that partie which was likest to thrive and prosper , in all discourse of reason and humane wisedome . Neither can any man think that Morton did aime at his own greatnesse , or that it was out of any self-respect that he followed the other partie with such disadvantage , if we will acknowledge that he was a wise and judicious man. And therefore if we search with an unpartiall eye , what could have been the motives that made him cleave so stedfastly to this cause , we shall finde them to have been no particular of his own , nor any thing else besides the equitie and justnesse thereof ( as he conceived ) his love to the young King , as his King and Kinsman , together with the preservation of Religion , and the welfare of his Countrey , which he thought did stand , and fall with this quarrell and cause . This in all likelihood hath been his minde ; which whether it was right or wrong , let them dispute who list : our purpose is onely to shew so farre as may be gathered by discourse of reason , what it was that did induce him to follow this course . Now although he had bent all his power and endeavours this way ; yet there lacked not some who did blame him , as not zealous enough to revenge Murrays death . His brothers Uterine ( Loghleven , and Buchain ) craved justice against the murtherers ; so much the rather , for that he was not slain for any private quarrell or enmitie , but for the publick defence of the King and Countrey . When it came to a consultation , some were of opinion , that those who were suspected , should be summoned to appear against a certain day , according to custome , and order of Law. Others again thought that such processe and legall proceeding needed not to be observed toward them , who had already taken arms to maintain by force , what they had committed by treacherie and treason , but that an Army should be levied against them ; and not only against them , but also against all such as had been declared Rebels by the former Parliament . But Morton did not like of this last course , nor Athole : because neither was that meeting frequent enough to determine of those things : and besides , they foresaw that the joyning of many faults would take away or diminish , and make men forget the principall ; and to mingle other crimes with the murther , were but to make all the guiltie , in what ever kinde , to joyn with the murtherers , and so raise a generall and open insurrection , and a most dangerous Civill Warre . Wherefore they deferred all till the first of May , the day appointed for a Convention , as also for choosing of a new Regent . These delayes were motioned by Secretary Metellane , who ( at Granges request , upon his oath that he was innocent of the Kings and Regents murther , and of the Rebellion raised in England , and having found sureties to appear , and answer whensoever he should be legally pursued ) was released by the Nobility here conveened . For what ever respect Metellane made this motion , Athole consented to it , and Morton also , because he saw there could be no orderly proceeding at this time . This was ill taken of the vulgar , who did interpret this delay , of which they knew Metellane to be authour , to be nothing else but a plot of his to gain time to strengthen his own faction ; and that Murrayes death might be forgotten , or at least the heat of revenging it might cool , and relent , which they thought should not have been granted , and given way to . This was done the 14. of February , the day after the Regents Funerall . The 15. of February , Argyle , and Boyde , wrote to Morton from Glasgow , where the principall of the Queens side were conveened , that they were willing to joyn with the rest of the Nobility against such as were guilty of the Regents death ; but because it was not yet perfectly known who they were , they desired that they might meet , and conferre about it , so that they of the Kings side would come to Lithgow , or Fawkirk , or Stirlin , for they would not come to Edinburgh . Morton did impart the businesse , and communicate these Letters with Metellane ( as they had wished him to do ) but he refusing to meet any where else save in Edinburgh , there was no meeting at this time . But afterward the 24. of February , they came to Morton to Dalkeeth , and laboured to perswade him to come over to their side ; but he was so farre from listening to them , that he did assure them , he would stand to the maintenance of the Kings authority to the utmost of his power . It may be , some will think that this constancie did proceed from distrust , according to that Pseudo politick and Machiavillian maxim , qui offensa , non pardóna , who once offends , never forgives : and that he thought his fault so great in opposing the Queen , that it could not be pardoned . But why should he have thought so ? His was no greater , than were some of theirs , who were pardoned , than the Lord Humes by name . And certainly by all appearance , he could have made a far better mends : he might have put an end to the controversie , and restored the Queen again to her own place , which might have sufficiently expiated all his former transgressions . Wherefore we may justly call it constancy , which was accompanied with courage , in undertaking so hard and difficult a task , and with wisedome in atchieving , and bringing of it through . In the beginning of March he went to Edinburgh , whither the principals of the other party came also , Huntley , Crawford , Oglebee , and the Lord Hume , Seton , and Metellane . There were but few with Morton , till Marre and Glencairne came in to him . The next day after , they met to consult of businesse ; but because Argyle was absent ( whose power was great ) they could conclude nothing . Wherefore Huntley goes to him , with intention to bring him along with him , but he came back without him , which every body thought was done by Metellans cunning , who hindred all agreement , that he might the better fish in troubled waters . The night following , these Lords , who were on the Queens side , took such a sudden apprehension , and panick fear , without any apparant cause , that having watched all the night in their Arms , they departed next morning , without order , and very dismayedly . About the end of April 1570. The Earle of Marre set forth from Stirlin to Edinburgh against the 1. of May , which was the day appointed for a Convention of the States ; but the Lords of the contrary partie lay in his way at Linlithgow . Wherefore Morton goes forth to meet him with 500. horse , and 1000. foot , so that Marre having crossed the water of Aven a good way above Linlithgow , they joyned their Troupes , and came both safe to Edinburgh the 29. of April , about twelve a Clock at night . Thus were the two parties , the one at Linlithgow , the other at Edinburgh ; each accusing other and blaming other as authours of dissention ; yet they at Edinburgh offered to yeeld unto any thing , and to come to any terms of agreement , which might not be prejudiciall to the K. authority , and upon condition that they would assure them of their concurrence to avenge the late Kings , and Murrayes slaughter . But they were so farre from accepting of these conditions , that on the contrary they chose three Lieutenants for the Queen , Arran , Argyle , and Huntley , they appointed also a Parliament to be held in her name the 3. or 4. of August at Linlithgow . In this mean time , Sir William Drury with 300. horse , and 1000. foot came into Scotland to pursue the Queens Rebels , and such as received them ( as was given out ) but the Lords at Linlithgow fearing they might be brought against them , assoon as they heard of their coming , went toward Glasgow , and besieged the Castle thereof , which Minto had in keeping . But he being absent , and not above 24. of the Garrison Souldiers within , the Castle notwithstanding was so well defended , that having slain moe of the besiegers than they were themselves in number , after six dayes stay , hearing of the approaching of the contary partie , they raised their siege , and went every man unto his own home . The Kings side with Drury ( and the English ) went into Cliddisdale , and cast down Hamilton , and other Houses belonging to the Queens faction . After this the English returned to Berwick , and Morton did go along with them the 3. of June , having stayed some 20. or 22. dayes , from the 2. of May. The 13. of July 1570. they chose Lennox to be Regent , in a Convention holden at Stirlin , and gave him the oath to observe the Laws , and to maintain the professed Religion . His first care was to stay the Parliament , which the contrary partie had appointed to be kept at Linlithgow in August . Wherefore he sends to Grange for some pieces of Ordnance out of the Castle of Edinburgh : but he refused to send any , pretending that he would be a procurer of peace , and not an instrument of War , and shedding of Scottish bloud . Notwithstanding hereof , the Regent goes to Linlithgow with 5000. men the 3. of August , where he could see no appearance of a Parliament , nor of any meeting , nor hear no news of them at all , save that Huntley had been at Brechin , and placed a Garrison there of some hired Souldiers , and that he had also commanded them to provide victuals and lodging for some thousands of men against the 10. of August . Hereupon the Earle of Morton made haste to go to Brechin , to surprize them before they were aware , and sent word to the Lord Ruthven , and Lindsay to go with him , or before him , because they lay nearer . But the Souldiers having gotten some inkling of their coming , fled , and retired , some to the Steeple , some to the Castle , where they thought themselves to be in safety . Morton therefore lay about these places , and not long after , the Regent came thither himself in person , and the Gentlemen of the Countrey about came all to him , so that his Army did now amount to the number of 7000. men . Those that were in the Steeple , yeelded presently : but they that were in the Castle stood upon their defensive at first , and wounded some that approached to have assaulted the castle ; but hearing that the Batterie was to be planted , and that Huntley , who they looked should have come to their relief , according to his promise , had abandoned them , offered to yeeld , their lives only safe ; but when they could not obtain that , they came in the Regents will , simply , without condition . Thirty of them were hanged , who had bin taken divers times before , and bin pardoned , upon their promise never to bear arms against the King ; the rest , with their Captains , were let go free . This being done , they returned to Stirlin the 15. of Aug. The Winter following was quiet , and free from trouble . In the beginning of February , Morton was sent into England to Queen Elizabeth at her desire , with whom went Pitcarne , Abbot of Dumfermling , and Master James Mackgill Clerk Register . Being come to the Court the 18. of February , he was remitted to seven of the Councel , who were appointed to treat with him . These propounded two heads to be spoken of ; one was , that the Queen might be better informed of their proceedings , and the equity of their cause , then as yet she was , and that their reasons and proofs might be so clear , and such , that both she her self might be fully perswaded thereof , and that she might be able to satisfie others , who should require her help against them . The other point was , to make some overture of Peace , and to finde out some way of reconcilement , that so the Kingdome of Scotland might be quieted and settled . For the first point , they gave in their Reasons in writing , the last of February ; which when the Queen had read , she answered by her seven Counsellours , that she was not satisfied there with fully , and therefore desired them to come to the second point ; what course was to be taken for pacification . She propounded the first Head onely for a shew , she knew well enough before what they could say , and was sufficiently satisfied , but would not be so , at least she would not seem to be so . As for the second Head , they answered , that their Commission was limited , and that they could not consult of any such thing as tended to the diminution of their Kings authoritie , neither would they take it upon them ( though they might ) nor use any such power , although it had been given them . The Queen was at Greenwich , whither she sent for them , and in a manner , chid them for their obstinacie , that they would not listen to a Treatie of Peace , but did rather avoide that which did concerne their good so much , and made large Protestation of her good-will toward them and their King , willing them , at least , if they would do no more , to hear what her Counsellours would say unto them . On the morrow her Counsellours propounded many things , for deciding the Title of the Crown betwixt the Mother and the Son , Morton craved the Propositions in writing , in regard there were many Articles , and of great importance . Which being given him , after he , and the others that were with him , had considered of them , they found them to be such as did diminish the Kings authoritie , and were without the bounds of their Commission ; wherefore they returned answer ; that these were things of so high a nature , that they belonged only to the three Estates , and could not be medled withall by so few as they were . This answer the Counsellours craved also to have in writing , which was done accordingly the day following . The 10. of March , they had presence of the Queen , and were again importuned to come to some proffers of agreement , but they absolutely refused . Again , the 20. of March , they were brought before the Queen , who confessed that these matters belonged to a Parliament , which ( sayes she ) seeing it is to be shortly , go home to it with Gods blessing , and take such order , as that there may be men chosen of both sides , to consult how to put an end to these controversies . And for the furthering thereof , I will send my Ambassadors thither , and will now presently deale with the Ambassadours of the Scottish Queen , and move them to go thither also , if it be possible . And so she did , but they could give her no present answer , untill such time as they had acquainted their Queen therewith , and received some direction from her thereabout . So they were forced to stay till Letters were sent , and brought again from her : which being come , the 4. of April they got presence again , and the Queen told them , how Queen Mary had rated her Ambassadours for their boldnesse , in daring to go so farre , as to enter into any terms of agreement . Wherefore ( sayes she ) seeing she is so averse from this way , I will stay you no longer ; but if afterwards she shall repent her , and be contented to hear of it , she said , she hoped they would be ready to follow the way of peace . And so they were dismissed very lovingly the 8. of April , and came to Stirlin the first of May , where having given an account of their Ambassage in the Convention assembled there , their proceedings were allowed , and approved by all . During Mortons absence in England , Lennox the Regent had taken Pasley , and the Castle of Dumbartan ; but on the contrary , the other Faction ( by Granges means , and their own Forces ) had made themselves Masters of the town of Edinburgh , with intention to keep out the Lords , & to hinder them from meeting in Parliament . Wherefore Morton being come to Dalkeith , kept 100. Musquetiers about him , together with a Company of horsemen , both to be a Guard to himself ( if they should happen to attempt any thing against him ) as also to hinder their excursions , & to keep them from pillaging the countrey about . This company of foot , with some 70. horse , he sent to Leith to assist the Herauld in making a Proclamation in the Kings name , to discharge all men to relieve or support the city of Edinburgh with victuals , or munition , or any other necessary provision . As they returned out of Leith ( out of a braverie , or because it was the nearest way ) the footmen would needs go hard by the City gates , & the horsmen ( though they liked it not ) would not forsake them . They in the town not knowing what might be their meaning , armed themselves , and seeing so smal a number , issued out at the two gates , ( called the Nether-Bow , and the Cow-gate-Port ) and skirmished with them . Mortons men ( though they were fewer in number ) had the better of them , and beat them back again within the gates . This fight was called the Lowsie-Law ( or hill ) because it was fought near to a little hill ( or Law ) where Beggers used to sun and louse themselves . It was the first yoking or bickering they had , and the beginning of the Warre between Leith and Edinburgh ; so called , because the Lords that were on the Kings side lay at Leith , and the contrary party at Edinburgh . And howsoever it was of small moment , yet it is not unworthie the observing , that this little essay , was , in a manner , a presage and prognostick of the issue of the ensuing Conflicts , that they should be of answerable successe . And so indeed it fell out , that the Kings side , though fewer in number ( as at this time ) had ever the better , during the whole time of these warres . The day appointed for holding of the Parliament being come ( which was the 14. of May ) the Regent comes to Leith , and Morton with him ; but not being strong enough to force the Town of Edinburgh , they went hard to the Gate , and having caused cast up a trench to keep the enemie from sallying out , they held the Parliament , though without the Gates , yet within the liberties of the Citie , which Lawyers said , was as good , as if it had been within the walls . In this Parliament , Secretary Metellane , with his two brethren ( John and Thomas ) and the Abbot of Kilwinning were declared Rebels , their Lands were forfeited , and their Goods consiscated . They sate five dayes , during which , the Ordnance from the Castle did play upon them continually , and the Bullets did often fall amongst them , yet not any man was slain , or hurt , as if by speciall providence they had been protected . Afterward they adjourned it , and transferred it to Stirlin against the 4. of August . They in Edinburgh also kept their Parliament , where they had the Crowne , Sword , and Scepter ( which they had gotten from Grange out of the Castle ) and declared some of the Kings side Rebels , and in end adjourned it likewise till a new day . The Regent returned to Stirlin , and Morton went with him to bring him on his way as farre as Corstorphin : As he returned to Dalkeith , they of the Citie issued out , as if they would have fought him , and the Castle at the same time did shoot at him ; but he being without their reach , and the Enemy not daring to go farther from the Town , than the Cannons could shoot , he went home without fighting . His house being near to Edinburgh , he kept all those that lay about him , or offered to come that way , from bringing any victuall thither . Wherefore they issued out of the Citie to the number of 220. Foot , and 100. Horse , with intention to surprize him , and either to burn his town of Dalkeith , or at least to brave him at his own gate , supposing that hee durst not come out to fight them , now that his Friends were all gone home to their own houses , and not above 200. or few more of waged souldiers left with him . So they march , and carry with them two Field-Pieces , and were come to Lugton ( within half a mile of him ) before they were espied . But assoon as the Alarme was given in Dalkeith , Mortons men ( about 200 foot , and 60. horse ) came forth , and having put themselves in order in the open fields , offered them battell . After some little skirmishing , they of Edinburgh seeing themselves disappointed of their expectation ( who thought to have found very small or no resistance ) began to retire toward the City in good order , and keeping their Ranks unbroken . The Dalkethians did follow them in the same manner , til they came to the castle of Craig-Miller ; then some of Mortons Foot getting before them ( by running about on the other side of the castle ) & rising as it were out of an ambushment , fell upon them in a narrow Lane which leadeth from the Castle ; & having broken their Ranks , made them flee . When they perceived from the Castle of Edinburgh , that the flight was towards the City , and that their men had the worse , they sent out 30. Harquebusiers to their aide , and a barrell of Powder on horseback . By this new supply , they drove back Mortons horsemen as fast as they had followed them before : but while they are in filling of their measures out of the barrell , the Powder being fired by some of their Matches , killed and hurt some 24. or 30. amongst whom was Captain Melvin , that did keep the barrell , and distribute the Powder . By this mean , the losse on both sides was almost equall , safe that there were moe killed of the Citizens , and more of Mortons made prisoners ; having followed too eagerly at a straight place , called the Queens Bridges . This fell out the 2. of June . Not long after this , Morton was advertised , that they of Edinburgh were gone to Leith , to intercept Captain Weemes , and 100. Souldiers who had served in Denmark , and now being come home were waged by the Kings side . They had gone to Fyfe , and having refreshed themselves there a little while , were now coming over to Leith , to enter into the Kings service , and some 24. of them being in a little Ferrie-Boat , were taken by the enemie , and carried to the Castle of Edinburgh , the rest being in a prettie good big Barke , arrived safe at Leith . Morton came thither too late , for the men of Edinburgh were all gone ere he came , save some 10. or 12. whom he took , and kept for the Souldiers that were carried away . Morton lay long at Leith , during which time there fell out a notable conflict , and the most memorable that happened all the time of that Warre . The Queen of England laboured to mediate a peace between the parties , and for that purpose had commanded Sir William Drury ( Marshall of Berwick ) to deale with them , and trie what conditions of agreement he could bring them to . Drury went to Stirlin to the Regent , he did also speak with Morton , and was now come to Edinburgh to take his leave of them there , seeing he could do no good , nor prevaile with either side . Morton in the mean time being wearied with watching , and excessive paines and travell ; tormented also with a vehement sit of the Colick , kept his bed , which they at Edinburgh having notice of , either to take advantage of his sicknes , or to brave them of Leith in the presence & sight of Drury , to make him beleeve that they were the stronger , and hardier ; they issue forth of the Town , and march toward Leith , having ordered and ranked their men as ready to give battell . This was the 10. of June in time of their Parliament , where the chief of their faction was present , and did make Huntley Lieutenant for Queen Mary . He with the Abbot of Kilwinning , and Master John Metellane Priour of Coldinghame , had the leading of the foot , Balcleugh and Farnihaste were Captains of the horse . These came as farre as the hill where the Gibbet useth to stand ( called commonly the Gallow-Law ) not farre from Leith , Morton understanding hereof by the watch , esteeming it a great indignitie and affront , that they should offer to come so near to the place where he was , forgetting his own sicknesse and infirmitie , rose out of his bed , and caused sound the Trumpets , and beat up the Drummes , and marching out of the Town , set his men in order within halfe a mile , and lesse , of the enemie . Sir William Drury rode betwixt the Armies , and made them promise not to fight that day , but then there arose a question which of them should retire first . Morton alledged that those of Edinburgh ought to do it , because they came out first , and were in a manner the provokers . But Drury to decide the controversie desired , that when he standing in the mid-way betwixt them should give a signe , they should both retire together at the same instant . Morton was content , but the other partie refused flatly , threatning withall , that unlesse he retired first , they would make him do it with shame , and would scarcely forbear till Drury withdrew himself ; who when he could not prevaile with them , went aside , and looked on , saying , GOD shew the right . Morton , who had yeelded before not out of fear , but onely to satisfie the English , thinking that he had done enough to show his moderation unto them , began to march toward the enemie . There were with him 3. Companies of foot , which were Mercenaries , under the leading of Captain Thomas Crawford , David Hume of Fishick , and Captain Weemes , who was come out of Denmark , all expert and valiant Captains . Besides these there were some Voluntiers of the Townsmen of Leith , and of Edinburgh also , who had left the City to follow the Kings side . The horsemen about 130. were conducted by William Douglas of Drumlenrigge , James Hume of Coldinknowes , and one Jordan of Aplegirth . Morton had about himself a Company of Pikemen , and such as carried Speares , and long Weapons . The fore-named Captains began the fight , and made the enemies shot quickly to give ground , and drave them back . The horsemen in like manner beat the Rebels horsemen , and routed them ; which Huntley perceiving , fled also as they did . There was no head or resistance at all made against them , save onely by a few of the foot men in the Abbey Church-yard , who made shew as if they would have defended that place of advantage , but they were quickly forced to leave it , and flee with the rest . For some of them being slain , some trampled under foot , and divers crushed to death in the throng and crowde , the rest ran away so disorderly , and fearfully , that they forgot to shut the Citie-gates , and fled straight to the Castle . And so great was their fear and confusion , that if the followers had not been too much bent , and eagerly set upon the pillage and spoyle , they might easily have entred , and taken the City . There were slain in this fight about some 50. of whom Gawin Hamilton Abbot of Kilwinning was one : there were 150. taken prisoners , the chief of which was the Lord Hume , being a little hurt by the falling of his horse , James Culen Captain of a foot Company , and a Kinsman of the Earle of Huntleyes had hid himself in a poor wives Aumerie , and being found , was drawne out from thence by the heeles , and brought to Leith : There so soon as the people saw him , they made a great noise and clamour , desiring that he might not be spared , but punished according to his deserts . For in the time of the Civill Warre at home , hee had behaved himself both covetously and cruelly , more like a thief and robber , than a Captain or generous Souldier : and abroad in France , he was very infamous for many vile and base pranks he had played there . And in the Warre betwixt Sweden and Denmark , he had taken Money of both Kings to levie men , and promised to aide both , but performed to neither . For these things , besides many moe foule and horrible crimes which he had committed , hee was publickly executed , to the great contentment of all the commons . Sir William Drury , when he saw how things went ( contrary to his desire , as is supposed ) being ( as was thought ) a North-folcian , went away to Berwick . After this , the Regent came to Leith , and caused fortifie it , and make it as strong as he could , to hinder any victuall to be carried from thence to Edinburgh ; and having appointed the Lord Lindsay to remain there as Governour , he returned to Stirlin , and Morton went with him to hold the Parliament , which was appointed to be there in August . There was at this time no small contest and debate , betwixt the Court and the Church , about Bishops , and Prelates , concerning their office and jurisdiction . The Ministers laboured to have them quite abolished and taken away , and the Court thought that forme of government to be more agreeable , and compatible with a Monarchicall estate , and more conforme to the rules of policie , and Civill government of a Kingdome . Besides , the Courtiers had tasted the sweetnesse of their rents and revenues , putting in titular Bishops , who were onely their receivers , and had a certain Pension or Stipend , for discharging and executing the Ecclesiasticall part of their office , but the maine profit was taken up by the Courtiers for their own use . Wherefore they laboured to retain at least these shadowes of Bishops , for letting of Leases , and such other things , which they thought were not good in Law otherwayes . There was none more forward to keep them up than the Earle of Morton ; for he had gone Ambassadour to England on his own private charges , and to recompense his great expenses in that journey , the Bishoprick of S. Andrews , being then vacant , was conferred upon him . He put in Master John Douglas ( who was Provest of the new Colledge in S. Andrews ) to bear the name of Bishop , and to gather the rents ( till such time as the solemnity of inauguration could be obtained ) for which he was countable to him . This he did immediatly after he came home out of England . Now he wil have him to sit in Parliament , and to vote there as Archbishop . The Superintendent of Fyfe did inhibite him to sit there , or to vote under paine of excommunication ; Morton commanded him to do it under pain of Treason and Rebellion . The Petition given in to the Parliament , desiring a competent provision for the maintenance of Preachers , in which they complained of the wrong done unto them by the Courtiers , who intercepted their means , was cast over the Barre , and rejected ; and by the most common report , Morton was the cause thereof . Afterward Morton in a meeting of some Delegates , and Commissioners of the Church at Leith , by the Superintendent Dune's meanes , used the matter so , that he obtained their consent to have his Bishop admitted , and installed . Wherefore the 3. of February , he caused affix a Schedule on the Church doore of S. Andrews , wherein he charged the Ministers to conveene , and admit him to the place , which they did accordingly , but not without great opposition . For Master Patrick Adamson ( then a Preacher , but afterward Archbishop there himself ) in a Sermon which he preached against the order and office of Bishops , said , there were three sorts of Bishops : 1. The Lords Bishop ( to wit Christs ) and such was every Pastour : 2. My Lord Bishop , that is , such a Bishop as is a Lord , who sits , and votes in Parliament , and exercises jurisdiction over his brethren . 3. And the third sort was ( my Lords Bishop ) that is , one whom some Lord , or Nobleman at Court did put into the place to be his receiver , to gather the Rents , and let Leases for his Lordships behoofe , but had neither the meanes nor power of a Bishop . This last sort he called a Tulchan Bishop , because as the Tulchan ( which is a Calves skin stuffed with straw ) is set up to make the Cow give down her milk ; so are such Bishops set up , that their Lords by them may milk the Bishopricks . Likewise Master Knox preached against it the 10. of February , and in both their hearings ( Mortons , and his Archbishop ) to their faces pronounced , Anathema danti , anathema accipienti , a curse on the giver , and a curse on the taker . This much I thought fit to mention here , and to cast these things together which are of one nature , though done at severall times , yet which began at this Parliament in Stirlin . While the Lords assembled at Stirlin lay there securely and negligently , without fear of the Enemie that lay so farre off as ( they thought ) at Edinburgh , they had well nigh been cut off all of them , and the whole cause overthrown . For there was in Edinburgh one George Bell ( an Ensigne-bearer to a Company there , and a Stirlin-man borne ) who knew all the Town , and every Lane , and Street , every turning and corner in it . He had learned also in what particular houses everie Nobleman was lodged . This Bell knowing by intelligence how carelesse the Lords were , how few they had with them , and that there was either no watch kept at all , or else but very negligently , & the Centinels very thin placed , thought it possible to surprize them with a very few men ; wherefore having imparted it , and acquainted the chief Commanders withall , they liked , and approved of it . So with all speed they prepare for the journey , and march from Edinburgh with 200. horse , and 300. foot ; the Earle of Huntley , Claude Hamilton of Pasley , and Walter Scot of Balcleugh being their Captains and Leaders . They used such expedition , and were so fortunate , that having got thither undescried , they planted themselves in the Market-place , and setting men to guard all the Lanes , and narrow passages of the Town , they entred the Noblemens lodgings , and took them prisoners ; the Regent , Glencairne , and others . Onely Mortons house made some resistance ; which being so well defended , that seeing they could not enter otherwayes , they set it on fire , and he , seeing all filled with fire and smoak , one or two of his servants also being slain , yeelded himself to Balcleugh , who had married his Neece Margaret Douglas . And thus having made all sure , as they supposed , the Souldiers began to roame up and down the Town , and rifle the houses , seeking for spoyle and bootie . In the mean time the Earle of Marre , and his folks , who were in the Castle , and had essayed divers times to break into the Market-place , but in vain , all the passages and entries being so well guarded , that they could by no means do it ; at the last he sent some 16. of his men , with small brasse pieces of Founds ( as they call them ) to his own new house , which was then a building : and because no body dwelt in it ( for it was not yet finished ) the Enemy had not regarded it . These entring in at a back-gate , got up to the top of the house , and to the windows which did look directly into that Street where the Enemie was , and began to shoot among the thickest of them . Hereupon they presently fled so fast , that they trod one upon another thronging out at the gate . Marres folks came presently down and pursued them , but the lodging-gatebeing shut , they could not get out at the little narrow wicket but one at once , and that very slowly , whereby the Enemie had time to flee safely . And now many that before kept within doores for fear , began to creep out of their corners , and come forth to the Street , and joyne themselves with the Earle of Marres men , so that the case was quite altered : For the Victours and Conquerours , leaving their prisoners and their spoyle , fled for life to save themselves ; and divers became prisoners unto their prisoners , namely those who had taken Morton and Glencairne . The Regent was taken by David Spense of Wormiston , who was himself killed while he laboured to save the Regents life , and the Regent also received his deaths wound . They might have utterly destroyed the Enemie , but that at their first entry the Tividale men had taken away all their horses , so that they could not pursue them . And so they escaped ( we may say ) on both sides : for both were victorious , & both were vanquished in a few houres space . A rare and remarkable example , how available , and of what moment it is to use diligence and expedition ; and how dangerous in time of Warre to be negligent and secure . But especially this accident doth make good that often repeated observation of that great Warriour Julius Caesar , Multum in utramque partem fortuna potest ; that in all the exploits of Warre , fortune hath great power either to frustrate , or make successefull . But what he cals fortune , we know to be providence , and ought so to call and acknowledge it ; which turnes the wheele of humane affairs beyond , and contrary to their expectation . If we may judge of the justice of the cause by the perpetuall successe of the maintainers , and by their meeknesse and moderation therein , the Kings side have had the better and the juster . The Regent died that same night , and was buried in the Chappell of Stirlin Castle , with such solemnitie as the Town and time could afford . The Grand-father being dead , the next Regent was Marre , being chosen the 8. or 9. of September the same year 1571. There were three put on the list , Argyle , Marre , and Morton . It is strange , they should have made Argyle one , who had been all this while on the contrary faction , and was now but a reconciled Enemy at most , unlesse they were sure how to carry it . Many thought Morton should have been the man , but he nothing ambitious of the title , which was but matter of envie , helped to cause Marre be chosen , who was a very sufficient and trusty Nobleman , able to discharge the place , and who had the Kings person in keeping within the Castle of Stirlin . The main thing that he did in his Regencie was , that he conveened the Countrey , and lay about the Town , but wanting Artillerie to batter it , he returned again to Leith ; where having divided the Kingdome into quarters , he appointed the severall divisions to come to him by turnes , with whom having broken the Mils about Edinburgh , he placed Souldiers in the villages and Gentlemens houses about it , to hinder all kinde of provision from it . In the South parts of the Kingdome , Balcleugh and Farnihaste did molest the Kings side , especially the town of Jedburgh . Wherefore Morton both for this cause , as also for a particular against Farnihaste , who claimed to be Bailiffe of Jedward Forrest ( which belonged to the Earle of Angus ) by inheritance , sent for the chief Gentlemen of the Merse , and desired them to subscribe a Band , by which all those that were by name insert therein , did binde themselves to assist other , and all of them to aid and assist the Warden Sir James of Coldinknows . In this Band were contained the townsmen of Jedward , the Laird of Badrule , together with the Trumbles and Rutherfords , and divers others . The first that wascalled ( they being all assembled together in Mortons lodging at Leith ) was Sir David Hume of Wedderburne , who flatly refused to subscribe it ; but said , Hee was ready to serve the King , as became a faithfull Subject , so farre as hee was able ; but that hee would not binde himself in any Band to any man , further than hee was already bound in duty , especially such men , with whom he would not enter into any societie , fellowship , or combination . He understood chiefly the Trumbles and Rutherfords , which names were infamous , and most of them reputed theeves , and Badrule a notorious one . Morton seeing him thus resolute , lest the rest might by his example refuse likewise , caused him go aside into a back-room , and called in the rest . The first of which was Patrick Hume of Polwart , who hearing of the Trumbles and Rutherfords , refused also to be joyned with them , or to subscribe . When Morton asked him his reason , he answered roundly , Because , sayes he , it may be some of these men have helped to steal Wedderburnes cattell . And hath Wedderburne any cattell stollen from him , sayes Morton ? Yes , my Lord , answered the other , that he hath . He did not tell me so much , sayes Morton . But it is true , my Lord , saith Polwart . Well , sayes Morton , will ye subscribe this Bond ? I cannot , my Lord , saith he , as the case stands . If you do not , saith he , you shall do worse . Worse , my Lord , saith the other ; nay , rather than do worse , I will do it . No , but saith Morton , I do not mean to compell you . No , but my Lord , saith hee , you have said enough ; and so he signed it , accounting it threatning and compulsion , and so himself no whit bound by his subscribing . The rest of the Gentlemen being called , seeing Polwarts hand at it , made no more scruple , but set to theirs likewise . After this , Morton went to dinner , and being set , hee remembred himself , and sent one to call Wedderburne out of the back-roome , and when hee came , he asked him , Why he did not come to dinner ? I was ( saith he ) lawfully committed , my Lord , and I would not break prison , but stayed till I was lawfully released . These dealings made some that were rigid censurers think hardly of Morton , that hee would use such infamous men , and tolerate them for his own ends , especially being a publicke person , and in the place of justice : Yet others did excuse him , as being necessitated thereunto by the times ; there being no other way to counter-poyse the power of Farnihaste and Balcleugh , but by these Trumbles and Rotherfords ; alledging withall , that it is not fit , or possible , to observe those Schoolrules precisely in Politick affairs , which it seemes hath been his opinion also . In February , Morton being absent in S. Andrews , about the installing of his Archbishop Master John Douglas , those in Edinburgh watching and laying hold on this opportunitie , went forth , and setting fire in the town of Dalkeith , burnt some twenty houses thereof , and having spoyled and pillaged it , returned safe to Edinburgh . There was little otherthing of moment done by either side , during Marres time . And now by the Garrisons ( which lay about Edinburgh ) hindering Victuall to be brought to them , their scarcitie increased so much , that they sent to procure an Ambassadour from France , and another from Queen Elizabeth , to mediate a Peace . And for the preamble of a full Peace , the Ambassadours obtained a Truce in July , to begin the 1. of August , 1572. and to last till December , or January . The conditions were simple , that the Town of Edinburgh should bee patent to all the Kings Subjects ; which was as much to say , as that they should render it up , since they could keep it no longer . And so it was done the first of August 1572. Before the expiring of this Truce , the Regent sickened , and died at Stirlin about the twenty eighth of October , 1572. Thus have wee waded through those times and actions of the Earle Mortons which were inter-mingled with those of other mens ; in which though he were not the sole agent , no●… the principall and first in place , yet had he a main hand in all of them , and in all the affaires of Estate , he was ever a chief Actour , during the reigne of the Queen-Mother , and Queen Mary ( her daughter ) in the time of the three Regents , Murray , Lennox , and Marre ; to all whom , he was ever even more than a second . Now we are come to that time and those actions , which are absolutely and fully his own ; where he is the deviser and executer , sole counsellour and sole commander of all , where there is none to go before him , none to share or partake with him in his praise , or blame . What hee doth aright , the honour thereof is due to himself alone ; and if hee do any thing amisse , the blame thereof must lye upon him onely . The pain or pleasure , the gain or losse , touch and concerne him , and none else . For Marre being dead , wee do not finde so much as any question made , who should succeed him in the Government ; mens mindes had by presage designed him to it , and the Lords meet to accomplish that presage , rather than to consult of it . Wherefore the twentie fourth of November , he was by uniforme consent of all those of the Kings side , chosen to be Regent . Would you know the reason of their choice ? Be pleased then to hear it in the words of a stranger , who is very impartiall , and farre from lavish commendation , that is , Master Thin ( or Boteville ) in his Scottish Chronicle ; They sought ( sayth he ) a new Regent to succeed in Marres place , that might in all respects defend the Kings Person , and the Realme , as he had done before . Wherefore the Noblemen assembling , did select by one consent , the Earle of Morton to that Office , a man no lesse wise than provident , and such a person , as both for the nobilitie of his birth , and service to the Realme and to the King , did well merit the same . By which it appeares , that he did neither ambitiously seek the Place , nor got it by faction , but was chosen to it for the good of the Countrey , freely and advisedly . He sayes indeed , that it was after long consultation , but it could not be very long , being little more than a moneth , which was short enough time to be spent in making the late Regents Funerall , and to conveen the Nobilitie therein . For according to himself , the election was in December ; but our Acts of Parliament ( which are more authentick ) say , it was the 24. of November . But how ever long their consultations were , we do not hear that he had any Competitour , or that there was any other mentioned or nominated with him ; and seeing he sayes , it was done ( by one consent ) then was there not any contrary Votes , or contradiction and contesting ; but a perfect and full uniformitie and harmonie of minde amongst all of that side . Nay , even of those of the other side also , who sent ( as some Notes say which I have seen ) Commission and Proxees to that purpose , and namely , the Duke and Earle of Huntley . Others say , these were at the Parliament , where this Regencie was confirmed , holden the 26. of January , in Edinburgh . They that delay it longer , cast their yeelding in February at Perth , where they name Huntley , Argyle , Athole , and in generall , the greatest part ( say they ) of the Nobilitie , and so we see his entrie was free and right , and duly approved by all ; the rest of his Office we have to consider . It lasted the space of five years and three moneths , till the twelfth of March , 1577. which is the time of his dismission . All this time the Countrey injoyed a full and perfect Peace , save so much warre as they had in recovering the Castle of Edinburgh out of the enemies hands . There were within the Castle ( beside Grange Captain thereof ) Secretarie Metellane , and his brother Master John , Priour of Coldinghame ( afterward Chancellour of Scotland ) who remained still in terms of hostilitie . I know not why , nor wherefore , whether it was , that they thought themselves so guiltie , as that they could not be pardoned ; or that they had conceived such spleen and hatred against the other Faction , that they would not be reconciled ; and so , out of despair , taking a desperate course , or that they were borne up with hope of some change , perswading themselves , that this agreement among the parties could not last long , being so ill cemented ( as they conceived ) but that some difference would soon arise upon some occasion or other , and that the rather , having their example for the present , and the Castle of Edinburgh for a place of refuge , when it should be needfull . Upon these , or such like considerations , being also not altogether forsaken of the French ( who sent some small supply of Moneyes , but large promises by James Kircadie , brother to Grange , who landing at Black-Nesse , conveyed himself and it secretly into the castle ) they resolved to be the last in yeelding , and to hold out so long as possibly they could , assuring themselves that they could make their peace when they listed ( if it should come to the worst ) by surrendring the place upon good conditions . There were with these forenamed ( as their followers ) the Lord Hume , who was altogether led by Metellans counsell , and Logan of Rastarig , who depended upon Hume . Pittadraw was Lieutenant to Grange the Captain , and Sir Robert Melvill was Uncle to Grange . The Regent being resolved to pull this thorne out of his foot , caused the Castle to be inclosed with a trench , and Souldiers set to keep it , under the command of Captain Crawford , and Captain David Hume before mentioned . And because they of the Castle watered at a Well ( called S. Margarets Well ) Captain Michell was appointed to lie with his Company at S. Cutberds Kirk , who hindred them from fetching water from thence , and after a while , he found means to poyson it , and so left it without any Guard. While the Castle was thus blocked up , one Captain Bruce issued forth thereof , to bring in victuals , but he was taken by the Regents men , saith Master Thin : a thing very hard to be conceived , how he either durst , or could do it ; neither is there any mention or memorie of his being there , any where else to be found . Now because the Castle did annoy the City with their Ordnance , so that none could walk in the Street ( which lies open in a straight line from the Castle exposed to their mercy ) without danger of their lives , the Regent caused make three Traverses or Dikes , and ramparts of earth , turfe and dung , over-thwart and crossing the Street , so thick , as that they were Cannon-proofe , and could not be pierced , and so high , that they took away the view of the Street from them of the Castle . One of these was raised hard by the Land-Market above the Tolbooth , and the other two ( with proportionable distance one from another ) nearer the Castle ; so that the Citizens and others walked safely to and fro about their businesse , and the Lords also sate in Parliament without any hurt , notwithstanding that the very day of their sitting ( the 26. of January , or as others the 16. ) for their welcome and first salutation , they had bestowed on them 87. great shot ; onely there was one poor dog killed before the Regents door . Neither was there any great hurt done before , though they had been still sending their vollies the 1. of January ( at what time the truce expired ) not above 6. persons hurt that kept the trenches , and as many within the City , but none slain . One night the Captain issued forth , and skirmished with the Regents Souldiers in the trenches , till he found means to set some houses of the City on fire ; which , the winde being high , did spread through the City , and when any did offer to quench it , he caused the Ordnance to play so thick upon them , that none daring to come near it , there were some 100. houses consumed therewith being burnt down to the ground , but not any man either slain , or hurt . This fact made him , who was hated before , to be abhorred and thought abominable by all men . Wherefore the Regent determining no more to dally with him ( not having sufficient store of Artillerie of his own , and fearing lest the Castle being well victualled , might hold out too long ) he sent to the Queen of England to borrow of her ; who sent him 30. pieces in all ( viz. 9. Cannons , 6. Demicanons , 6. Sacres , and 9. Culverins ) with all manner of needfull provision ; together with 700. or ( as Master Thin saith ) 1500. men under the conduct of Sir William Drury Generall . With these and 500. hired Souldiers of Scots , besides the Gentlemen Voluntiers , and the Citizens of Edinburgh ( after he had summoned the Castle , and they not obeying ) he sate down before it the 20. of April 1573. They raised five Mounts or Terrasses , whereon to plant their batterie , in that place where now Heriots work is built . These ( being called by the severali names of the chief Commanders , First , the Kings , Secondly , Mount Drury , Thirdly , Mount Leyes , from Sir George Leyes , Fourthly , Mount Carie , from Sir George Carie , Fifthly , and Mount Sutton , from Thomas Sutton Master of the Ordnance ) were finished the 17. of May , with great toyle and labour , and not without some losse of men by shot from the Castle . They began their batterie the 17. of May , and continued it till the 26. The Castle is situate on a steep and inaccessible Rock , having a large utter Court beneath that Cragge whereon the Castle standeth . About this Court there is a strong Wall , and on that side which lieth towards the Town of Edinburgh , a Bulwark ( or Blockhouse ) ending in a sharp point , being made in form of a triangle . The use of it is to defend the entrance and gates of the Castle . The wals of this Blockhouse are subject to the sight and shot of the Castle , and so may be defended by those that are within , but the corner & sharp point thereof is not so , and if it be taken by the Enemy , those that are within the Castle cannot annoy them . There were within the castle at the inner end of the said Blockhouse , two turrets of ancient workmanship , but more high than strong ; of which the one was called Davids Tower ( which stood nearer the Gate ) the other without it nearer to the South , was called Wallace Tower , but I know not the reason of their names . Against these two Towers , and the side of the Blockhouse nearest to the Castle , they directed their first batterie . Thereafter they battered round about on every side of the Castle , and having dismounted some of the Ordnance within , and broken other some by shooting in at the mouth thereof , their Cannon did little hurt , being made unserviceable . Besides , Davids Tower being battered , was beaten down , and fell in such sort , that the ruines thereof did damme up the gate and entrance betwixt the Castle and the utter Court and Block-house . The Blockhouse was also battered in that part that was over against the gate ; and Wallace Tower , which stood above the gate within the Castle , was beaten down . There was a breach large enough , made not farre from the gate of the Bulwarke , and the ditch also was filled up with stones and rubbish , so that they might well enough have entred there ; but because it lay so open in the very mouth of the enemies shot , it was not thought safe to give the assault at that place . Wherefore having provided Ladders , they went to the point of the Blockhouse , there to climbe up out of danger of the Enemies shot . The foremost in this service were Captain Hume and Captain Crawford . Humes Ladder being too short , and there being one of his men also shot upon the Ladder behinde him , he was forced to come down again , and so Crawford got first up , and Hume followed him upon his Ladder , and so did the rest of the Souldiers without any hurt done . So they went forward , and planted a Corps de guarde before the Gate of the Blockhouse called Humes Porter-lodge , I know not why or how it got that name . They had no let or impediment , save that they had some small shot from the Castle , for the great Ordnance could not annoy them , being so high above them . And those that had kept the Blockhouse , had forsaken it , and were taken in to the Castle , being towed up over the Wall in the night . For it being sore battered , and the passage from thence to the Castle being so dammed up , that there could come no relief nor succour to them from within , they would not stay in it any longer , but abandoned it . While they were in s●…aling the Blockhouse , there was another Company sent to make shew of giving an assault at another place , but they having gone further on than they had warrant or direction , they were repulsed , and about thirty of them slain . And so they did ( as it were ) make an exchange , and recompense their losse of the Blockhouse , with the death of these thirty . But this taking of the Blockhouse , was a matter of no great consequence ; for neither could they any wise annoy or harme them that were within from thence , neither was the Castle Wall any where scalable , but as hard and difficult to get up into it as ever . Onely they had taken from them the onely Well which was left them , and out of which had been furnished to each man a pint of water a day . For the other Well that was within the Castle , by the fall of Davids Tower , was so filled with lime and rubbish , that it served them to no use . Besides , they were at variance amongst themselves ; for the Souldiers were not well pleased with their Captain , in regard of his hard usage of them . For he had committed to his wife the charge of distributing their Vivers , so to please her in that , that she might be the better contented to bear with his untimely and unlawful love toward her maid whom he intertained all this while . It is true , the victuall began to grow scarce , but she made it scarcer by her niggardly disposition . They did not mutine , but they murmured so , that they within were content to Parley with the besiegers . Wherefore the 26. of May , Grange the Captain , Pittadraw Lieutenant , and Sir Robert Melvill came down over the Wall by a rope , and spake with Generall Drury ; for they addressed themselves to him , as one in whom they did much confide as a favorer of theirs . They demanded that their lives , lands & honor safe , they might depart with bag and baggage , both he , and all that were with him . But when he could not obtain that , he returned to the Castle again . The Regent after this , found means to let the souldiers understand , that if they would render up the Castle , their lives should be saved , and they should have free libertie to passe with bag and baggage whither they pleased ; else that they must expect all rigour and extremity . Hereupon they shew themselves unwilling to undergo any more paines or danger for him , and refuse to obey him ; so that he was constrained to yeeld up the Castle the 28. or 29. of May , without any condition at all , but referring himself absolutely to the Queen of Englands pleasure . Her pleasure was to remit all to the Regents own wisedome and discretion , and so the 16. of July she called back Sir William Drury and her Souldiers ; as also about the same time her Ships and Munition were sent home againe to her . Concerning the prisoners , the Lord Hume was committed again to the Castle , and the Castle to the keeping of George Douglas of Parkehead , brother naturall to the Regent . Sir William Metellane of Lithington deceased ( the 9. of July at Leith , where he lay with Drury ) before he was suspected , and reported to have poysoned himself . What fear ; what guiltinesse , or what other occasion there was to move him hereto , or what information he got , or apprehension he took of the Regents minde toward him in particular , I know not ; but after that he knew that he was to be left by the English in the Regents hands , he lived not many dayes . None of the rest were hardly used , save Grange the Captain , who being odious for his breach of faith to those of the Kings side ( with whom he took part at first ) and much more hated for his treacherous dealing with the first Regent Murray , who had been so kinde and loving a friend to him , and had trusted so much to him ; but most of all for his obstinacie and unmercifull cruelty in firing the Town of Edinburgh , and not suffering them to quench it , the common people did so abominate and detest him , that they could not abstaine from reviling and cursing of him , as he was led along , after the Castle was surrendred ; neither could they be hindred from stoning of him : so that they who were with him were faine ( for saving of themselves and him ) to take the house upon their heads . And now that he was in the Regents power , there was no way to satisfie them , but by executing of him : Wherefore being condemned for these things , he was put into a Cart , and drawn backward to the Market-place of Edinburgh , where he was hanged , and with him his brother Master James Kircadie , and two men of Edinburgh ( Mossman and Cackie ) who had made false Coin in the Castle on the 3. day of August 1573. Master John Metellan was sent prisoner to Tantallon , and Sir Robert Melvill to Lithington , to be kept there by David Hume of Fishick , who then possessed it . This was the onely exploit of Warre which he atchieved , and by which he acquired great reputation ; the former Regents having never been able to get this Castle into their hands : as also by his no-wayes rigorous dealing with those that were in it . The rest of the time of his Regencie , there was a generall peace in the Kingdome , and full obedience was yeelded to him by all men . No man of those times had seen the like before ; no King was ever more dreaded and reverenced , nor did ever keep all sorts of people ( High-Landers , Low-Landers , Borderers and all ) in better order and greater subjection , even to inferiour Magistrates , both Civill and Ecclesiasticall . The chief mean hereof was the execution of the Laws . He made not many new ones , but what he made , he took care to have observed . Concerning Religion , there are these five Acts extant , which he made in his first Parliament the 26. of January 1572. before the besieging of the Castle . 1. The first of these is relative to an Act made by Regent Murray before . In it ( being made for establishing of Religion ) it had been declared : That they were not of the Church , that did not approve the heads of Religion then received , and who refused to participate of the Sacraments as they were administred . Morton ordains ( in this Parliament ) such persons to be first searched , and secondly , admonished to rec●…nt their wicked errours ; thirdly , to make confession of their faith according to the form prescribed ; fourthly , to participate of the Sacraments ; fifthly , submit to the Discipline of the Church within such a competent time ; sixthly , if they fail to do this , that they be excommunicated ; seventhly , then have their names printed in a catalogue ; eightly , divulged ; ninthly , & affixed on the Tolbooth door of Edinburgh ; tenthly , from thenceforth to be reputed infamous ; eleventhly , not to sit or stand in judgement , pursue , defend , or bear any publick office ; twelfthly , not to be admitted as a proof or witnesse , or assessour against any , professing the reformed Religion , till they submit , be reconciled , and obtain a testimoniall of their reconcilement . That to be in this Catalogue shall be a relevant exception against , first , Judges principall : secondly , or Deputies : thirdly , Members of Court : fourthly ; Officers : fifthly , Parties or Procutors : sixthly , persons of inquest : seventhly , or witnesses , to decline them from , first , Judgement : secondly , Office : thirdly , Pursute : fourthly , Procuration : fifthly , Inquest : or sixthly , Bearing witnesse : That the Arch-bishops , Bishops , Superintendents , Visitours , Commissioners , Readers , shall give in their names within every one of their bounds , under pain of forfeiting a years rent in case they fail . 2. The second Act is : That all Ecclesiasticall persons ( that is Ministers , or such as pretend any right to have , or brook and enjoy any , first Benefice : secondly , Life-rent : thirdly , Stipend : fourthly , Pension : fifthly , or Portion of Benefice ) who shall not confesse , subscribe , and participate the Sacraments , as said is , shall be ipso facto deprived , and all his Ecclesiasticall promotions and livings shall be voide and vacant , as if he were naturally dead . 3. The third Act : That none should be reputed as loyall and faithfull Subjects to our Soveraigne Lord , but be punishable as Rebels , that gave not confession and profession of the reformed Religion : That such as had once professed it , and afterward made defection , should returne before the first of June next , and renew their former confession : first , Promise to continue in it : secondly , To maintain the Kings authority : thirdly , The Preachers : fourthly , And Professours of the true Religion , against whomsoever and whatsoever enemies , especially against all ( of whatsoever Nation or degree ) that had bound themselves to maintain the decrees of the Councel of Trent , and were falsely called , The holy League . 4. The fourth Act : That whosoever were excommunicated ; and remained so 40. dayes , letters of horning should be directed to charge him to satisfie the decree of the Church pronounced against him , and to be reconciled to the Church , and submit to the Discipline thereof under pain of Rebellion : and if he did remain obstinate , that hee should bee put to the horne , and then letters of caption should be granted to apprehend him , &c. 5. The fifth Act was : That Ecclesiasticall persons ( such as above ) remaining year and day at the horne , should lose their Life-rents . These Laws he procured to be made in Parliament , and being made , he saw them duely executed ; by which mean it came to passe , that in his time , there was no man in Scotland , that professed advowedly any other Religion than the reformed ; or maintained any point of Religion , contrary to the doctrine of this Church . Men do now wonder at it , how it could be : yet so it was , and this was the mean that procured it . As for the Borders , hee tamed and daunted them by In-rodes , and Justice-Eyres , executing some for terrour to others , taking pledges and hostages of the rest , and punishing them that transgressed according to their faults , most part by pecuniarie mulcts and fynes . The High-landers were kept in , by binding the chief of the Clans over to the peace ; and partly by fear , partly by gentlenesse , he drew them to the obedience of the Laws . But the chief mean for all , was a solid and perfect peace established amongst the Nobilitie , the onely certain and sure way of keeping the Borderers in order ; as by the contrary , a stir amongst the States ( as themselves speak ) doth never faile to incite them to their theeving and robbing . This he knowing well , partly by his wisedome compassed and effected it , partly it fell out of its own accord by mens inclination thereto , being wearied with so long troubles , and the turbulent heads that stirred up and entertained dissention , being now taken away by death . It is matter of laughter and sport , to consider mens judgements concerning this his government . I heard then , and have read since in some memorials of those times , his government mightily taxed , and reproached , and himself censured as covetous & greedie , as one that hanged some poor snakes for a shew of justice , but suffered the richer theeves to escape for their money . And yet the same men do not stick to say and write , Betwixt the 3. of March 1575. and the 4. of March 1577. the space of two years , there was nothing of importance to write of : All this time the Regent governed the Realme both well , and wisely : for during these two years , the common people had rest and quietnesse ; Not considering that his government in the former years had procured , and caused the rest and quietnesse of these years . Yea , these same things which they call ( hanging of the poor for shew of Justice , and letting the rich go for money ) they might call it ( if they would speak in proper termes , and give it the right name ) a just moderation and tempering of justice with lenitie ; punishing some ( lest impunity might breed contempt of the Law ) punishing the fewest and in the gentlest sort , lest too much rigour might drive them to despaire , and so force them to desperate courses , and to stirre up new commotions . If this course did withall meet right with any natural inclination in him towards money ; yet that inclination did rather concurre with this judgement , than cause it . He knew the nature of his countrey-men , how they cannot easily endure to have their lives touched , or their bloud medled withal , and how hard it is to over-master them by the strong hand , and a violent way , but farre more easie to be overcome and gained by fair meanes ; and therefore out of his wisedome hee made choyce of this , as the best way for his purpose of settling Peace . The event and issue did justifie his choyce : for from hence did arise a full Peace , and perfect quietnesse , together with all obedience and good order in Church and State at home , and account and great esteem of Strangers abroad . His meanes ( indeed ) were also increased , yet that came not so much by publick fynes or forfeitures , as by his good husbandry and thrifty managing of the revenues of the Crown , and his own private estate . For no man knew better how to improve both the one and the other , and to make the best of them ; and no man was more carefull and diligent in it , than he . He guided both himself , and imployed his own pains and industrie therein , as in all affairs whatsoever . His servants were ever particularly directed by himself , and they did but execute what he commanded . The chief men he used were John Carmichael of Carmichael , and George Auchinleck of Balmannoe . He imployed the former in all matters that were to be done upon the Borders , having made him even a warden ; theother had a care to gather in his rents , and was ( as it were ) Stuart or Chamberlaine to him . His private delight was in planting and building , which hee did very magnificently , especially at Dalkeith ; for which Drumlenrig admonished him that it was too sumptuous and stately for a Subject , and too near to Edinburgh . He built also an house in Tividale , called the Droghholes , for his private retreat . He grew so in esteem of wisedome and riches with all men , that it was no wonder though hee were a little touched with the opinion of it himself ; being now past all emulation , and so accounted of by all men , he could not but esteem also well of himself . They who did envie him had little hope to hurt him by action , being above their reach ; but by their tongues they sought to make him envied of all ; saying , He had all the riches , all the friendship , and all the wisedome of Scotland , Him alone . This was Hyperbolicall , and spoken to stir envie ; yet thus far it was true , that he had more of all these than any other one man , and so much as all his enemies were not able to match or impaire . He had added to his friendship great parties , the Lord Maxwell and Hamilton . Maxwell married his Niece ( a daughter of his brother David , and sister Germain to Archbald Earle of Angus ) and the Lord Bothwell also had married her sister Margaret , Relict of Walter Scot of Balcleugh . The Lord Hamilton had been in great enmitie with him ; for ( besides the publick cause of Regent Murrays death ) he with his brother Claud of Pasley , had killed Johnston of Wester-hall , a follower and depender of the house of Angus . At that time the Countesse of Cassills ( Lyon by name , of the house of Glames , and a near Cousin to the Regent ) was a widow . Whether the love to that Lady brought on the reconcilement , or their reconciliation occasioned the affection to the Lady , it is hard to say ; but so it was , that Hamilton suited her in marriage , and obtained his suit ; and by this all quarrels , and more especially that slaughter of Westerhall was taken away . And for the better satisfaction herein , both the brothers ( the Lord Hamilton , and Claud of Pasley ) made publick obeysance to Archbald Earle of Angus , in the Palace of Haly-rood-house , by coming the whole breadth of the Inner-Court thereof bare-footed , and bare-headed , and falling down on their knees , holding each a naked sword by the point , delivered it to him to take hold thereof by the Pommell . This was in the yeare 1575. the seventh of March , being Monday . After this , Hamilton was married to the Lady . Yet may it bee doubted , whether he acquired more friendship in private by them , than he furnished matter of obloquie in publick to the countrey ; because both these brothers were accounted authours or accessarie to the killing the Earle of Lennox , ( then Regent ) and the Kings Grand-father ; as also they had been of that of Regent Murray . These slaughters all the Nobilitie ( especially of the Kings side ) had solemnly sworne to avenge : and now by this hee seemed to neglect that quarrell , and his oath , and that he had more care to be satisfied in his own particular , for the slaughter of one mean man his depender . It grieved particularly William Douglas of Logh-leven , who desisted not from the pursuit of those that had slain his brother Murray : after a privat manner , seeing he could not get publick justice executed ; twice he set upon the Lord Hamilton , as he was coming from Arbrothe , and chased him so , that he was constrained to return to Arbrothe again . Another time as he was coming through Fyfe , he made him flee to Darcie , which he beset & lay about it , till the Regent sent to him , and commanded him to desist . However , by the alliance of these Noblemen , he seemed more strengthened & more secured . The Earle of Angus ( his Nephew ) was married to the Lord Ereskins sister , daughter to the late Regent , Earle of Marre , a Lady of rare beauty and vertue ; and worthily made choice of by Morton who was author of the match , both because of the Ladies deserving , as also for that it not a little seemed to strengthen him , seeing her mother and uncles ( during the minoritie of her brother ) had the custody & education of the young Kings person , which was the only way to attempt any thing against his Regencie . Whether these things begat in him security , and security bred carelesnesse to entertain mens love , from whence did arise a loathing of him in all estates , & coldnesse in particular friendship ; or what ever the occasion was , certain it is , that he keeped his place more by the estimation of all , than by the affection of many , on the occasions following . We shewed before , how in matters of Church-government , he ever inclined ( as the most politick course ) to the estate of Bishops . The name was yet retained by custome , the Rents were lifted also by them ( as we have said ) more for other mens use & profit , than their own . They had also place & vote in Parliament after the old manner , and he would gladly have had them to have kept their power and jurisdiction over their brethren . M. John Douglas being dead , he filled the place by putting in M. Patrick Adamson his domestick Chaplain , who then followed that course , thoughbefore he had preached against it . Many were displeased herewith , all the Ministers ( especially they of greatest authority ) & all men of all estates that were best affected to Religion . He endeavoured also to have put the charge and cure of more Churches into one Preachers hands , that there being the fewer to provide of stipends , the Kings revenues ( who paid them out of the thirds of the Church lands ) might be increased by the surplusage which remained to him . Hee did so eagerly presse this point , that some thought it necessary to write against this course ; namely , Master John Davidson ( Minister at Salt-Preston ) then a Student at S. Andrews . Him he caused to be summoned to under-lye the Law , and to be indicted criminally , and being entreated for him , he shewed himself so animated against him , that he durst not under-go his triall , but fled to England , with the consent of those that were bail for him ; of whom he exacted the summe to the full , and they willingly did choose rather to pay it , than to expose their friend to the hazard of his wrath . The Printer of the Book Robert Lake privike was convicted by an assise or jurie , and committed to the Castle of Edinburgh . It was also hardly taken , that he sought to diminish the authoritie of the Generall Assemblies of the Church , by refusing to be present ( being desired ) at an Assembly holden in Edinburgh the 6. of March , 1573. which was very frequently and solemnly kept almost by the whole body of the Countrey ; the Nobility , Gentrie , Commissioners from Burrowes , as the custome had alwayes been , and as he himself before had been present at them . Yea , he began to question their priviledge and libertie thereof , by asking the Commissioners ( which were sent from them to crave his assistance thereat ) who had given them power to assemble the Kings Lieges without his leave , who was in authority : With this unlooked for demand , they were dashed at first , but re-collecting and gathering their wits again , they answered : He that gave power to preach and hear preaching , gave power also to conveene in Assemblies : Neither doth it depend on man ( say they . ) He said , that was treason . They answered , That if so be , then all the Apostles were Traitours , and the primitive Church in time of persecution . He said , That they conveened onely to preach the word : They answered , That they conveened to advance , facilitate , and set forward the preaching of the word , and that was to preach also . But however , if to conveene without the consent of the Magistrate were unlawfull , preaching was also unlawfull , unlesse they should preach to the Wals. A little velitation thus passed , he in end refused to goe , which did so grieve them all , that a publick Fast was appointed to pray for diverting and averting of such things as he seemed by this to intend against the accustomed Assemblies . He propounded to be reasoned , whether the supreame Magistrate should not be head of the Church , as well as of the common-wealth ; and there were Divines appointed to dispute it for the Church , Master James Lowson ( Minister at Edinburgh ) the Laird of Dun ( Superintendent of Angus ) and Master John Spoteswood ( Superintendent of Lowthian ) and James ( or Master David ) Lindsay . For the Regent , there was the Justice-Clerk , Master David Borthwick , Sir James Balfoure , and William Douglas of Whittingame . These met at Edinburgh in the Abbey , and conferred for the space of 12. or 13. dayes ; but hee finding no appearance of obtaining that point , dissolved the meeting till a new appointment . The Commons , and chiefly the Town of Edinburgh were offended with him , because he had diminished the value of a certain brasse or copper coyne ( called Hard-heads ) and abased them from three half pence to a penny : and also the plack piece ( another brasse coyne ) from foure pence to two : which was done ( notwithstanding ) by the consent of a very frequent Convention , where the whole Nobility ( no Earle , Lord , or great man in Scotland being absent , except the Lord Hamilton , not then reconciled ) was present the 25. of February 1573. He licensed also the transporting of Corne out of the Countrey , against which he himself had made an Act , but now he dispensed with the Act for money . He committed all the Butchers of Edinburgh for forestalling the Market , and afterward dis-missed them , having paid a Fine . He held Justice Eyres , and raised a taxation under colour to cut down the Woods of Hair-law ( on the Borders ) which was a place of retreat and refuge to out-laws , theeves and rebels . These things were interpreted to be done rather as a pretext to get Money , than for any other good use or end . He was in his own person loosely given ( his own Wife being frantick ) and his houshold servants were not much better , as it commonly comes to passe by imitation . They were also not altogether void of envie for their great wealth : nor of hatred , in regard of the way that men thought they got it , which was by receiving and taking bribes from such as had suites to him for obtaining accesse to him , or his favour by their means , and some such indirect wayes . Riches are ordinarly accompanied with hautinesse and disdaining of others , either really , or in mens opinion ; which doth again beget disdain in those that think them disdainfull . This was the generall opinion men conceived of his servants , from the highest to the lowest , even of his door-keepers and grooms . One thing did marvellously offend men : George Authenleck of Bawmannow having ( I cannot tell what ) small quarrell against one Captain Nisbet , being come out of Dalkeeth ( where the Regent kept commonly his residence ) and going up the Street , he met this Nisbet , where drawing his Rapier , he thrust him through , and leaving him as dead , he held on his way to the Tolbooth where the Lords of the Session sate , as though he had done no wrong , with great indignation of the beholders : and at night he returned to Dalkeeth , where he waited upon the Regent as before . This made the people to murmure both against him as the actour , and against the Regent as conniving thereat , who perhaps did not hear of it , at least for a certain space . This Authenlecks credit with the Regent was so great , that all suites ( for the most part ) were obtained by him : and therefore men of the best qualitie countenanced , and followed him , which was both observed and disdained . One day this man being in the Tolbooth within the Inner-Barre , Oliver Sinclar ( sometime Minion and Favourite to King James the fifth , who was now at Court ) standing at the Middle Barre , intreated earnestly to speak with him , which having obtained with difficultie , when the other asked him what he had to say to him : Oliver answered , I am Oliver Sinclar , and without saying any more , left him ; as if he should have said , Be not too proud of your courtship , I was once as you are , you may fall to be as I am . This was matter of much talk a long time . The Nobilitie grudged to see the Regent and his servants to ingrosse all matters of profit and commoditie to themselves alone . If any Writ were to passe , it passed through at the highest rate ; few casualities were given cheap , fewer gratis . The marriages of Wards , the gifts of escheit , re-abling , or naturalization , were bestowed all upon his Domesticks . They were neglected in these things , and in other things also of a higher nature , their advice was not often sought , nor themselves much imployed , as if he had not stood in need of them . The Earle of Argyle was mightily incensed against him upon this occasion . He had a Jewell which had sometime belonged to Queen Mary , which was an ensigne of precious stones , set in forme of the letter H ( for Henry ) which his Lady had either gotten from the Queen ( who was her sister ) to keep , or some other way in a token perhaps ; the Regent re-demanded it as belonging to the King , and when he got it not by request , he sent an Officer of arms to him , and charged for it ; whereupon it was delivered to him , but with great alienation of his heart and affection ever after . His most near and particular friends wanted not their own exceptions and grievances against him . In the East and middle March , he planted strangers amongst them , as Arch. Auchenleck ( brother to George ) and Arch. Carmichael ( brother to John Carmichael of Carmichael ) in the Merse . These he married to two Wards ; the last to one Hume , Inheretrix of Edrem ; and the former to one Sleigh of Cumblege ; notwithstanding that she had gone away with Patrick Cockburne ( brother Germain to the Laird of Langton ) who had kept her certain dayes , yet he caused an Officer of arms to charge him to deliver her , and so she was exhibited , and married to Auchenleck . Both these march with the Lands of Bonckle , belonging to the Earle of Angus ; and therefore this planting of these men there , was not well taken , but was interpreted , as if hee had meant to strengthen himself there by them , and to acquire dependers there for himself , not leaning or trusting sufficiently to those of the Earle of Angus , or his friends in that Countrey . The purchasing of the Lands of Spot to his naturall son James , wrought him both hatred and hurt ( in the end ) for it quite alienated Alexander Hume of Manderston . This Alexander had to wife a sister of George Hume of Spot , and by her divers children , of which one was George , afterward Earle of Dumbar . George of Spot having but one daughter , had taken to him , and ( in a manner ) adopted this George sonne to Alexander , with resolution to bestow his daughter on him in marriage , and with her his whole estate . It fell out afterward , that John Cockburne of Ormeston married a daughter of Alexander of Manderston . This John having some difference with Spot about some Lands , the very day before his marriage , rode with his Company , and did eat up the Cornes that grew on the controverted Lands which Spot had sowne . The next day Spot being at the Wedding of his sister daughter , complained of the wrong done to him , but received small satisfaction , either of the Bride-groome , or of his brother-in-law , who was loath to offend his new Allie . Spot conceived such indignation hereat , that to be revenged of Manderston , he resolved to sell his estate , and to bestow his daughter somewhere else , and so to disappoint his sonne George . Wherefore he addresses himself to the Regent , and offers his daughter with his whole estate to his sonne James . The Regent , nothing slack to such an occasion , without more scruple or any question , transacted and contracted with him , and the marriage was accordingly accomplished betwixt Anna Hume , and James Douglas who got by her all the Lands pertaining to her father George Hume of Spot , his life-rent onely being reserved . By this mean Alexander of Manderston , and his sonne George were debouted and frustrate , which did so incense him , that from that time forward , he lay in wait ( as it were ) and watched for an opportunity to be revenged of the Regent . There lyeth near unto these Lands of Spot , the Lordship of Thurston , which belonged by inheritance to Craigie-Wallace , but was possessed by Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , and had been possessed by his Predecessours of so long a time , that it is thought to have been their possession before they had Wedderburne , for eight or nine generations . The right they had was sometimes a Lease , sometimes ( the Lease expiring ) kindlinesse onely . At last , the King having given to Wedderburne the Lands of Dundonald ( which lay hard by Craigie-Wallace Gates ) Wedderburne puts him in possession of them , and retaines his possession of Thurston , wherewith they rested both a long time well contented and satisfied . This excambion being reall , and without Writ on either side , it fell out that the Kings Lands ( which had not as yet bin set to feud ) coming to be set out , they that were intrusted therewith , finding Craigie-Wallace in possession of Dundonald , gave him a legall right to it , and so he had the right both of it and Thurston . Hereupon he warnes Wedderburne to remove from Thurston , as having no right thereto , but he kept his possession . On this ensued no little trouble , by reason of Waughtons assisting of him , who had married Craigie-Wallace sister . Afterward Sir George of Wedderburne ( Uncle to this Sir George ) marrying a daughter of Waughtons , matters were taken up and accorded , and Wedderburne was no more molested . The Regent knew all this very well , and yet notwithstanding hereof , the nearnesse of Thurston to Spot , and his desire to enrich his sonne , made him to send for Craigie-Wallace , and buy his title and right from him to Thurston . Then he sends for Wedderburne , tels him what he had done , and that he did not mean to make him a loser thereby : and therefore desires to know what satisfaction he would have for his right and interest . He answered , That he desired nothing but his own , and that onely could content him . The Regent replyed , That he had now bought that : And the other answered , That he was the more unkinde to buy that which he knew to be his by so long and kindly possession . No other in Scotland ( sayes he ) would have bought it , nor you , my Lord , if you had not been Regent . This he bore patiently , as a free speech of a justly offended friend ; yet he still pressed him to know what contentation he would have ; but the other persisted in his former answer , That his own would onely content him . So they parted , being divided in words and minds , concerning this particular , but without breach of friendship . After a while the Regent ( to bring on the matter more freely , and to necessitate him thereto ) makes warning , and no objection being made , obtaines a decreet of removing against him . Wedderburne to shew what little account he made of these doings , fals a building on it , that he might know he had no intention to remove . He had a Lease which was not expired as yet , and there were two or three years thereof to run ; but he would not make use of it , but kept it up , partly to trie the Regents intention , partly reserving it as a ground of reduction , if it should need . Thus they continued all the time of his Regency ; after his dimission the difference was taken away by William Douglas of Logh-leven , after this manner ; Wedderburne got one half of the Lands ( the Manour-house , and what lay about it ) and a full and perfect right thereof , and did quit the other half , which was let out in Tenantry . Sir James Hume of Coldenknows , and Alexander Hume of Huton hall were also alienated from him , but I know not what the occasion of it was . In Tiviotdale William Ker of Cesford , and Andrew Ker of Fadunside were likewise displeased , and had fallen off from him for some hard usage , which doth not succurre for the present . Hee had banished William Ker of Ancram , for the fewd betwixt him and the Rutherfords , of whom he had slain one . His fathers house of Ancram was seized , and given in keeping to his enemies the Trumbles . His mother ( a daughter of the house of Wedderburne , and the Regents Cousin Germane ) had often sued to him , to have it restored to her and her husband , but could not prevaile with him . At last , she found means by her self and her servants , to get into the house ( being negligently kept ) and turning the keepers out of doores without doing them any harme , dwelt in it with her husband , and her other sonne Robert. William absented himself from publick view , and remained sometimes in England , but most part in Wedderburne , both in Sir Davids , and Sir Georges time ; neither was the Regent very carefull to pursue him , or search after him ( though hee knew of it , and they made no bones to confesse their receiving and entertaining of him in their houses ) yet would he not release him from his banishment , being loath to displease the Trumbles and Rutherfords , whose service was very usefull to him . He tolerated also John Hume ( sonne naturall to John , called of Crumstaine of the house of Wedderburne ) who had been with William Ker of Ancram in all his troubles , so farre as at the meeting which the Regent had with the English ( after the Red swire ; ) he being in company with Wedderburne , the Trumbles and Rutherfords perceiving him to be there , went to the Regent , and complained that he was suffered to live in the Countrey , being a Rebell , and one that had so much wronged them . Let him alone ( sayes the Regent ) and do not meddle with him at this time , when he hath so many of his friends about him : for if he were now challenged , it might trouble you and me both . Some few dayes after this , he went to Tantallon with Wedderburne , where having kept himself out of the Regents sight all the day long , at night ( when the Regent was gone to bed ) he fell to Cards with the servants in the hall . The Regents Chamber was hard by , and he , not resting well , arose and came forth to the hall in his night-gowne to look on their gaming : By chance John sate next to him ; and he leaning with his hand on his shoulder a long time , without knowing who he was , at last going away to bed again , he perceived it was he , and smiling , said to him , GOD make you a good man ; and so went his way . From thence forward John conversed in publick , and came ordinarily into his sight and presence without being challenged , as if he had been formally released from his banishment . The Earl of Angus himself had his own discontents ; and thought him too carefull to preferre & provide for his natural sons , and not so careful of him as he should have been . Besides , these that thought themselves dis-obliged , he had professed enemies that hunted for all the advantages against him they could devise ; at home the Castle faction ( Master John Metellane , Sir Robert Melvin , Pittadraw ) and abroad in France , the Lord Seton , Farnihaste , Waughton ( who was not very busie ) the Bishops of Glasgow , and Rosse , Ambassadours , and Agents for the Queen . These things ; like warts or freckles in a beautifull body , seemed to stain the lustre of his government , and though they may be thought but small slips and weaknesses , yet they made impression in the mindes of some , and in the own time brought forth hard effects , albeit in respect of his place , wisedome and power ( like slow poyson ) they were long ere they did shew forth their operation . There fell out a businesse in the year 1576. the 7. of July , which men looked should have brought on warre with England . Sir John Forester , Warden of the middle March in England , & Sir John Carmichael Warden for Scotland , met for keeping of the Truce , at a place called , The Red Swire . There the Scottish Warden desired that one Farstein ( an English man ) who had been filed by a Bill of goods stolne from Scotland , should be delivered ( as the custome was ) to the owner of the goods , to be kept by him untill he were satisfied for them . The English Warden alledged that the man was fugitive , and so the Warden was not bound to answer for him , or deliver him , but the party endammaged was to seek redresse of any that should be found to receive or harbour him in their houses . Sir John Carmichael taking this not to be spoken in sinceritie , but for a shift to frustrate justice , urged and pressed the matter more hardly , desiring him to speak and deal plainly , without sparing any man for fear or favour ; but regarding onely what was just and right , according to equitie and reason . Sir John Forester thinking himself taxed of partialitie , beganne to bee angry , and in a contemptuous manner bad Carmichael match himself with his equalls , and not with him , who was above him both in birth and quality ; and therewith hee rose up from the place hee sate in , and walked a little away from thence . The English Borderers ( chiefly they of Tindall ) being all Bow-men , when they perceived their Warden displeased , glad of occasion to trouble the Peace , sent a flight of arrows amongst the Scots , whereby they killed one of them , and wounded diverse . The Scots who looked for no such thing , and were gone some to Cards , and some to other Pastimes , being scattered here and there , fled at the first many of them . At length some few ( about twenty persons ) taking courage , and calling to the rest to stay and stand to it , they joyned together , and charged the English so fiercely , that they slew divers of them , amongst whom was Sir George Heron , a worthy Gentleman , and well beloved of both the Countreyes , whom they would have been loath to have hurt , if the heat of the conflict had not carried them to it unawares . Sir John Forester , and the Gentlemen that were with him , were taken prisoners , and brought into Scotland to the Regent . He entertained them kindely , and honourably , but detained them as lawful prisoners , and breakers of the Peace , till the Queen of England sent for them . It was expected that this should have bin an occasion of warre ; but the Regent was nothing afraid of the matter . He knew them , and they him ; he entertained friendship with them after his wonted manner , and sent many Scottish Falcons for a present to the Courtiers of England , whereof one made a jest , saying , That hee dealt very nobly and bountifully with the English , in that he gave them live Hawkes , for dead Herons , alluding to Sir George Heron , who was slain . The businesse came to a treatie , and the Regent came in person to Foulden in the Merse , where the English Commissioners met him . They agreed on these termes , That the goods should be restored , and for satisfaction and repairing of the Queens honour , Carmichael should go to London , and come in the Queens will. He went as far as York , where being come the 26. of September , he was detained there some five or six weeks , and so was dismissed . Concerning restitution of the Goods , the Regent caused make a Proclamation , by which he commanded all that were on this side of Forth , to come to him at Edinburgh the 8. of October , with provision of victuall for twenty dayes , intending to go to the Borders . But he continued or adjourned the diet till he should give new advertisement ; for the Borderers ceased from their stealing , and took order for restoring what they had taken . Afterward he held Justice-Courts at Peebles and Edinburgh , which was interpreted to be done , more for getting money , than doing of justice . The townsmen of Edinburgh were especially aimed at , & most carefully summoned ; yet they were continued and cast overto another time ; only they paid a thousand marks Scottish for Bullion , which the Merchants are bound to furnish to the Mint , but had neglected to do it . During the time of his Regencie , he met with one private conspiracy , of which John Semple , son to the Lord Semple was author ; upon what ground or motive I know not . It was revealed by one Gabriel Semple , who being confronted with John before the secret Councel , avouched it , and offered to make it good by combate : But it needed not , for John confessed it , and was thereupon condemned to be hanged , quartred and drawn . Yet when his friends interceeded for him , the Regent ( nothing bloud-thirsty ) did onely send him to the castle , there to remain during pleasure ; which not being declared , he was kept there during his Regency , after which he was set at liberty . In the year 1577. the 4. of March , the Nobility assembling at Stirlin , concluded that the King should take the government into his own hands , and should be guided by a Councell , and the Regent deposed . No cause was given out , nor could there be any sufficient reason pretended . The King was not yet 18. years of age , which was the time limited and set down in the Act of the Queens dimission for him to be governed by Regents . At most he was but 11. or 12. years old , When these newes were brought to the Regent at Dalkeith , being astonished therewith , he came to Edinburgh ; but little countenance was made to him by the townsmen , few came from the countrey ( no Baron almost of note , save Wed derburn ) none of the Nobility , so far were they alienated from him in affection . And indeed though they had intended to have come in to assist him , he gave them no time to do it ; for , ere they could have come ( as my Lord Boyd only did ) he had dimitted his Regencie ; and was so far from making any impediment or let to the Proclamation , that he assisted a single officer with a trumpet , who came to proclaime the Kings authoritie , and publickly laying down his Office , he took instruments of his dimission . The next day when the Lord Boyd came to him , hee chid him soundly for this his haste ; and even he himself , when he had thought better on it , was angry with himself , that hee should so rashly and unadvisedly have given way to his enemies , who used the Kings bare name against his authoritie , which was to last five or six years longer , and was established by the Laws of the Kingdome , and Act of Parliament ; unto which they themselves had consented and given their approbation . Whether or not hee did best in dimitting , it may be disputed on both sides . The adverse party seemed strong , Argyle , Athole , Crawford ; yea also ( which did most astonish him ) his friends Glames , Ruthven , and Lindesay ; his most cherished , Pitcarne ( Abbot of Dumfermling ) Secretary , and Tillebardin Controller ; he had the ill-will of the Burrows , especially Edinburgh . And yet having right and the law on his side , some would have regarded that ; the multitude ( so mutable ) might have been reconciled , and the Faction dissolved ( being glewed together by nothing but common discontentment ) by contenting some , and putting some in hope of having place in managing the affairs of the Kingdome . Neither could matter of division have been long wanting amongst themselves , where there were so many heads , such diversitie of judgement , and so many severall aimes and intentions . If hee had but stuck to his right declared , and claimed it , and in the mean time kept himself safe by his own power and friendship in Dalkeith or Tantallon , it is possible , and not improbable that hee might have dis-appointed them . But hee left that way , and having dimitted the authority , he rendered also the Palace of Haly-rood-house , the Mint and Coyning-house , with the printing irons ; also the Kings Jewels , and what else belonged to the Crown was delivered to the Lord Glames and Maxwell , who were sent from the King and his new Councell to receive them . And good reason he should do so , for now they were no more his , seeing he was no more Regent , having dimitted the authority , he could not retain them . Yet he did not so with the castle of Edinburgh , which the same two Lords had also commission to receive . His brother ( George of Parkhead , as we have said ) was Captain of it , who not being well provided of Victuall before , he found that it was then too late to begin . For seeking to Victuall it both privatly and openly , hee was hindred by the Townsmen , whereupon ensued bloud-shedding and slaughter . The Town had placed a Guard about the Butter-market ( where the Weigh-house now stands ) and the Constable of the Castle Archbald Douglas ( brother to John of Tillie-whillie ) issuing forth , set upon the Guard before they were aware , and having killed two or three of them , retired to the Castle again . This did no good ; it procured hatred toward himself , but purchased no Victuall to the Castle . Wherefore the Guard being more warie , he was so straited for want of Vivers , that he was forced to surrender it to the Lord Ruthven and the Lord Lindsay the first of April 1578. In this mean time ( some fourtnight before , the seventeenth of March ) the Lord Glames Chancellour , was slaine at Stirlin . There had been some old quarrell betwixt the Earle Crawford and him ; but now both being on the Kings side , they were upon termes of agreement or assurance . It happened so , that as the one was going to the Castle of Stirlin , and the other coming from it , they rencountred in a narrow Lane. Both of them commanded their followers and train to give way , which they did , and were now all passed save two of their servants that were last , who having first justled one another , drew their Swords , and flew to it . Hereupon both their Lords with their Companies turned , and began to skirmish ; where the Lord Glames being a tall man of stature , and higher than the rest , was shot with a Pistolet , and so died . It is uncertain who it was that shot him , but many thought it was Crawford himselfe , because he was very skilfull in shooting with a piece . Wherefore he was committed to prison , but was released again soon after , without further triall or enquiry : Whereupon followed great enmity and mischief betwixt these two families of Crawford and Glames . It was observed with admiration , that the news of this slaughter , which was committed about five a Clock in the after-noon , was reported punctually and perfectly at Edinburgh by six , there being 24. miles distance between . It appears by this , that if Morton had not laid down his authority over hastily , other such things might have fallen out to have divided that faction , which might have furnished him with matter enough to have wrought out his own continuance therein . But now having laid it down , he must play the after-game as well as he may . There were chosen to be of the Kings Councell , Argyle , Athole , Montrose ; the Bishop of Caithnesse ( Montroses Grand Uncle ) the Abbots of Dumsermling , and Newbottle ; the Lord Ruthven , Lindsay , and Oglebee . These coming to Edinburgh , he gives place , and withdraws himself , not to Dalkeeth ( it was too near ) neither to Douglas ( it was too farre off and out of the way ) nor to Tantallon ( it was a place of strength , and it might have been interpreted fear in him ) but to Logh-leven to his Cousin William Douglas , who was also a near Cousin to the Earle of Marre ; that from thence , and by him he might deale with them who had the Kings Person in keeping , and finde meanes to turne about the wheele againe , and to overturne them who had turned him ( in a manner ) out of his Regencie . There hee busied himself in making of Walks and Alleys , in drawing of Garden plots or knots , little minding any State affaires in appearanee ; or if any warie wit did suspect any thing of him , or any clear eyed Lynceus , or well sighted Argus espied some designe ( which was very hard for them to doe ) yet most part saw nothing ; and there were but few that suspected any thing , and none that could help or hinder it . For so hee brought it ( as most men think ) or so it came to passe , that Alexander Ereskin ( brother to the late Earle ) a man of a good easie nature , and no ill disposition , and who , though of himselfe hee were nothing factious or malicious , yet he had been an instrument , whom the other partie ( Argyle , Athole , &c. ) had used to turne Morton out of his Regencie , by admitting them unto the King , who was committed to his charge as Captain of the Castle of Stirlin , and Tutour to the young Earle of Marre , was himselfe almost after the same manner turned out of his charge of keeping the King and Castle . For as the King had been moved to take the government upon himself before the time appointed , so the Earle of Marre was moved to take upon himself that his own charge ( of keeping the King and Castle of Stirlin ) before his time , being not yet of age nor Major . The manner of it was this : One Morning ( the 26. of April 1578. the Earle got up betimes to go a hunting , and sending for the Keyes of the Castle Gate , Alexander ( his Uncle ) came himself in person , and having opened the Gate to let his Nephew forth , he himselfe and his servants were thrust out at the Gate by the Earle , assisted by his own naturall brother , and his Uncles the Abbots of Cambskenneth and Driebrugh ( very worthie , kinde , upright , and honest Gentlemen ) and so he took the Keyes and keeping of the King and Castle into his own hands the 27. of April 1578. ( as my notes say ) and so not above 7. weeks after Mortons dimission of his Regency . Whether or not Morton imployed Tillibardine in this work , and gave him Money for it ( he being Uncle to the Earle of Marre ) I cannot affirme it , though I know it was reported ; neither indeed can I say confidently that Morton plotted this businesse , and that it was his doing , or what hand he had in it , or whether it were nothing else but division amongst themselves . However it were , by this meanes the designes of the new Counsellours were turned to nothing . They had ( the 9. of April ) chosen the Earle of Athole Chancellour , and indicted a Parliament to be held the 10. of July , and had consulted of many Articles to be concluded therein . Upon the newes of this change , they go to Stirlin , but the Castle was kept so close , that they were not suffered to come in , save one at once . There they had some meetings in the Town , and afterward returned to Edinburgh the 8. of May. Morton waa come to Dalkeith a little before ; wherefore they send to him , and desire to conferre with him . He came to Craig-Miller , and there spake with Athole and Argyle , and at last ( after much tossing of businesse ) they agreed so well , that they went with him to Dalkeith to dinner . On the morrow ( the 9. of June ) Morton goes to Stirlin , and was friendly received by the Earle of Marre into the Castle . The rest followed that same day , so that the whole Nobilitie was assembled together the tenth day . By their advice the Counsell was changed , and Morton made Principal and President thereof . The Parliament by Proclamation was transferred to Stirlin , there to be held the twentie fifth day of July , whither the Lords of Parliament were ordained to come with their ordinary train . The other Lords , Athole , Argyle , Montrose , Lindesay , Oglebee , Maxwell , Harris , and the former Councell conveened in Edinburgh , and sent Montrose and Lindsay , to excuse their absence , and to give the reason and cause of it , because ( as they alledged ) the Parliament was not free , being kept within the Castle of Stirlin , and both King , Castle and all in the Earle of Marres power . All this notwithstanding the Parliament held , wherein there were not many things concluded . The chief things were a discharge given to Morton for his government , during the time of his Regencie . An exoneration to the late Earle of Marre ( who had been Regent ) for his keeping of our Soveraigne Lords Person within the Castle of Stirlin . The Lord Hume was also restored from his forfeitrie , by the meanes and procuring of Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , with the consent indeed of Morton ( whom he solicited for that end ) but against his opinion and advice . For he told him freely , that he thought it was not his best course ; for ( sayes he ) you never got any good of that house , & if it were once taken out of the way , you are next , and it may be you will get but small thanks for your paines : Sir George answered , that the Lord Hume was his Chief , and he could not see his house ruined ; if they were unkinde he could not do withall , that would be their own fault ; this he thought himself bound to do , and for his own part , whatsoever their carriage were to him , he would do his duty to them ; if his Chief should turne him out at the fore-doore , he would come in again at the back-doore . Well ( sayes Morton ) if you be so minded , it shall be so , I can do no more but tell you my opinion , and so consented to do it : Yet Sir George had so ordered the matter , that he made no question to have carried it without Mortons consent by the Abbot of Driebrugh and Cambskenneth , to whom he was allied by his wife . Wherefore they are mis-taken that say Morton did all , and that there was nothing done but according to his pleasure ; for hee was but accessary , and concurred ( as one of the chief and prime Noblemen ) but the house of Marre had the main sway at this time . At this Parliament , the wardenrie of the East march was taken from Coldinknowes , and given to Sir George of Wedderburne , and he thought it no robberie to take it , being given him . In August the other Lords ( with whom were Coldinknows and Manderston , Cesford and Fadunside ) assembled their forces , and having set forth a Declaration , that their purpose was to set the King at liberty , they marched from Edinburgh to Fawkirk . Neither was Morton slow in gathering together his friends at Stirlin , with resolution to have tryed the hazard of a battell . The Earle of Angus went out divers times , and skirmished with them , but there was no great hurt done . Onely in a single Combate or Duell ( upon a challenge ) which was sought on horse-back with Lances , one Taite ( a Tividale man that belonged to Cesford ) was slain by James Johnston a follower of Angus , he also being sore wounded . At last they came to an agreement , and lest they should seem to have done nothing , they condescended that the King should be brought to Edinburgh or elsewhere , as they pleased , by the advice of the Nobility , which served little for their purpose ; for there was no time limited ; and when he was brought to the palace of Haly-rood-house ( the 30. of September 1579. a year after ) yet was Marre and Morton the chief men about him , and had greatest credit with him . But before that time it was concluded in Councell that the Lord Aberbrothe and Claude of Pasley his brother should bee pursued as slayers of Lennox and Murray ( late Regents ) which was done accordingly . But they themselves having fled into England , their servants were taken , and some executed , others imprisoned , and their Lords Houses demolished . This motion is thought to have proceeded chiefly from the house of Marre and Logh-leven . Wee hear of no new occasion given by them , for they remained neutrals , and did not side with either partie at this time . Mortons part was , that he remained a spectator , and was contented that mens minds should be taken up with some other thing , and not have leasure to think of him , and his late greatnesse , and that their furie should be powred forth on somewhat else . While they remained yet at Stirlin , the Earle of Athole died suddenly , which was matter of much talk , and gave occasion to Mortons enemies to lay that foule aspersion upon him , that he had poysoned him . For all the Doctours did affirme that he was poysoned , save onely Doctour Preston , who said it was no poyson ; but being desired to taste of it , and having onely touched a little thereof with the tip of his tongue , it had almost cost him his life , and he did never after fully recover , but languished and was sickly so long as he lived . Wherefore seeing it was certainly poyson , Who could give it him ( said they ) but Morton ? And yet they could never tell how he could doe it . For hee was not in Mortons lodging , nor Morton in his , as they knew , and doe themselves confesse . Neither were any that belonged to Morton in his house , and though they had beene , they were neither Cooks , nor Cup-bearers , nor Carvers to him . So blinde is malice , or so malicious are impudent detractours . Morton cleared himselfe of this imputation at his death . And yet there are some to this day , that are not ashamed to report it . In the next yeare 1579. in June , upon the Kings longing to be abroad , it was concluded in Councell that he should go to Edinburgh the 25. of September next , but he came not till the 30. day thereof . Morton and Marre were still with him as his chief Counsellours . They invited him to Dalkeith , where hee remained a certain space , and returned to the Abbey of Haly-rood-house the 16. of October : The day following hee made his entry through the City of Edinburgh with great solemnity and pompe ; with great concourse and applause of people , rejoycing to see him whom they loved heartily and dearly , as they testified by their acclamations and prayers , powred forth for his safety and welfare . After this ( on the 20. of October ) he kept a Parliament , extant in the printed Acts. Hitherto wee have seene our Earle of Morton , though not an absolute Favourite of fortune , yet so cherished by her , that howbeit shee did now and then frown on him , yet shee seemed rather to try his strength whether or not he were able to endure a storme , and ride it out with resolution , than that she meant to over-whelme him in her waves ; for the issue did ever prove advantagious to him , and he became rather a gainer than a loser by his sufferings . But now having raised him to the highest dignitie and pitch of greatnesse that a subject was capable of , according to her accustomed levitie , all of a sudden turning down that was up of her wheele , she brings him so low as to lose life and estate . There is nothing more deserves our observation , than these vicissitudes of great places , to see men of low made high , and than again falling from their height and greatnesse to become low , which is to be seen in this last Act and Catastrophe of his Tragedie , so notably as is rare to be found elsewhere . Who could and would truly discover the depth of the mysteries of these times , and tell exactly who were the chief p●…otters and first movers of this work , and who were the instruments and executers thereof , as he should do a piece of good service for clearing of the truth of things to posterity , & the ages to come , so do I confesse for my own part , that it is too hard a task for my self to performe , and more than I will undertake or promise to do . All that I can do is to set down the actions which are evident in grosse , and to follow such conjecturall probabilitie in the narration as my weak judgement can lead me to . We have heard how the King & Queens factions did long contend , and how Morton had ever been on the Kings side , and how in his Regencie he had so handled businesse , that they that stood for the Queen had yeelded and acknowledged the King and him as Regent . The keeping of the Castle of Edinburgh was the last Act of opposition , and with the yeelding of it , all was whisht . Lithington and Grange were taken out of the way , who were the strongest or the stoutest upholders thereof . Yet the Society was not quite broken or extinguished with them . Master John Metellane ( sometime Priour of Coldingame , and brother to Lithington ) Sir Robert Melvin ( uncle to Grange ) Pittadraw , the Bishop of Dunkell , and some others remained . These he had committed to prison for a short while ; afterward had pardoned them , and set them at liberty . They kept still their old minde , entertained mutuall friendship and correspondence , and wanted onely occasion to shew the effects of their former disposition : Especially Master John Metellane , and Sir Robert Melvin bore great hatred to Morton ; the one for putting his Nephew Grange to death , the other because he supposed Morton would have done as much to his brother , if he ( fearing so much ) had not prevented it by poysoning himself , as the common rumour was . Besides these private grudges , the publick cause did also egge them on and animate them against him ; which they never forgot , and looked upon him as the man who had beene the bane thereof . Yet they set it on foot again , by commending of it openly , and advancing it ( all they could ) secretly and indirectly ; using all the means they could to make all things work for the Queenes advantage . She had her Agents and Ambassadours in France , together with her Uncles ( of Guise ) and wanted not her under-hand Favourers in England , that still had their eye upon her ( as upon the rising Sunne ) whom they esteemed the hope of their Religion . Their suite now was ( who would not think it so ? ) both plausible and modest ; to joyn the mother and the sonne in an equality of government , being so near joyned in nature . It could not but be for the good of the Countrey , and make much to confirme and strengthen their title to England . Thus they said ; but how can this bee done ? He is in possession of the Crown , how can it be taken from him again ? How can he be desired to dimit ? And though he would demit , yet those of his party will never be contented that he should doe it . On the other side , Shee is living and dis-possessed ; but who that hath ever worne a Crowne , can live and bee content to want it ? What other mids then , and meane can bee found out , but association in the Crowne ? So shall both have it , and both be satisfied , a happy society , from which will flow the sonnes love , and the mothers blessing . All shall so goe well , and it will bee easie to perswade a childe ( though never so wise ) being unacquainted with such things , especially one that is so gentle , and of so towardly disposition : onely the difficulty will bee to move his old friends thereto ; they will never consent to it ; they will bee jealous and fearefull of any party or equalitie in ruling , though of never so neare and deare friends : they will choke us with that old saying , Nulla fides Regni sociis , &c. They will thinke it a diminution to the Kings authoritie , which ought not to bee admitted either in effect , or in appearance . The grounds of his Title will seeme to bee brangled and overthrowne ; also his estate will bee made thereby more unsure , and doubtfull : The match ( though with a mother ) will bee too hard for him ; shee is elder , and so wiser , and more experienced , and may soon steppe up from this equalitie to a Superioritie , by questioning her former dimission , by revoking and recalling of it , as being done in prison , and so not free , nor voluntary . Thus shall the King bee thrust out of his place , the Countrey , his old friends , Religion , and all quite undone . Morton was too old a Cat , to draw such a straw before him , or to propound any thing tending that way : wherefore their best was to make him away , that so the plot might goe on . And much more good effect would come of that one stroke : Hee was rich , hee had faire lands and houses , a faire reward of all their pains and travell . And no question , his friends that should take his part , might bee involved , and insnared with him : Especially the Earle of Angus could hardly in this case of his Uncle , so behave himselfe , but occasion might bee found against him , which would bee a faire bootie . The facilitie of compassing a businesse doth often draw men on , and doth greatly prevail in all consultations . The new factions against him were very strong , yet hee kept them downe , but it was meeerly by the Kings countenance ; if that were once taken away from him , the rest would prove but easie . And now to facilitate all , there fell out such occasions , as they could have wished , or as they had made . For in September , in the yeare one thousand five hundreth seventy and nine , Mounsieur d' Obignie was come ( or brought ) home : his name , his kindred , his carriage , his commission from friends in France , his comelinesse , his observance , his person did procure him credit with the King ; and this faction did privately insinuate with him , and openly thrust him forward into the Kings favour ; and put him out of conceit of Morton ; and indeed quite alienated him from him , and so by him the King , whose eare hee now had ; for Morton being such an adversary to the Queene , and so to France , Obignie to doe the Queene , and to doe France service , to pleasure the holy League ( himselfe being a Papist ) and to gaine the good will of this faction by whom hee was to rise to some great place about the King , was easily induced to promove their plotte and malice against him . Neither was there great difficultie in it : hee had lost many friends , offended all sorts of men ; the Burrowes , the Ministerie , and who so doth zealously affect them , so farre as that if they were not his enemies , they were but cold friends , and such as would bee but spectatours , and no wayes actours for him . There fell out also ( about this time ) in October ( 1580. ) an accident , which did him much hurt , and made for their purpose . The Lord Ruthven having beene in Kincarn ( a house of the Earle of Montrose ) at the marriage of the Earle of Marre , as he returned to Perth , his way lying neare to Diplin ( which belonged to the Lord Olyphant ) and there being enmitie , and deadly fewd betwixt Olyphant and Ruthven : Ruthven not withstanding , rode that way in view of Diplin . Olyphant tooke this as done in contempt of him , and therefore issuing forth with some horsemen , and some fire locks , followed them , and came upon them so unexpectedly , and with such advantage of weapons , that Ruthvens men fled presently , and their Lord was forced to doe the like . Onely one Alexander Stuart ( of the house of Traquaire , and a Kinsman of Ruthvens ) stayed behind the rest , partly to keep off the pursuers , partly to speake with Olyphant in fair termes , and was slain by a shot , from one that knew him not , sore against Oliphants minde , and to his great griefe and discontentment . The Lord Ruthven , seeking by order of law to repair his credit , and to be revenged for the killing of his friend , causes summon Oliphant to answer criminally before the Justice Generall . This Oliphant had married Margaret Douglas , daughter to William Douglas of Logh-leven , and now being pursued upon his life , was assisted by his father in law . The Earle of Morton would gladly have agreed the parties , but the fact being recent , and the Lord Ruthven ( together with the friends of the Gentleman that was slain ) having received such an affront and indignity , there was no possibility to take it away , save by law . Wherefore Morton joyned with the party that was pursued for his life , which hath ever beene accounted most Noble , most tolerable , and free from exception or quarrelling . Besides , Oliphant had not commanded his servant to shoote , neither did hee allow or approve ( but was sory for it ) in his heart ; but hee thought hee could not with his honour deliver one who followed him , and had done this rash fact , in and for his service , but was bound to defend him all hee could , and protect him from all danger , and harme , according to his power . Notwithstanding , of this , Ruthven was mightily displeased with Morton , for countenancing , and assisting Olyphant against him , and Master John Metellane , and Sir Robert Melvine ( who tooke part with Ruthven ) laid hold of the occasion , and blew the bellowes so , that they brought him to that point of unkindenesse , that hee could very well have beene contented to see Morton reduced to such an estate and condition , as that hee might neede his helpe , and bee sensible of the losse of so steadable and usefull a friend , as hee tooke himselfe to be . Wherefore , when hee understood that his enemies were plotting against him ( either for that he knew not that they aimed at no lesse then his death and finall overthrow , or if hee did know so much , because hee thought hee could give them a stop when hee pleased , and hinder them from attaining that point of their aime ) hee suffered the course to goe on , and perhaps helped it forward . The name of Stuart were also offended with him for assisting one who was accused of the killing a Stuart , and all this was aggreaged and aggravated by those of his opposite faction . Besides this , hee had shewed that hee was not well pleased with the Courtship and favour which Mounsieur D'Obignie had with the King ; because there was a generall suspition and feare , that hee was imployed , and would labour to corrupt and pervert him in his Religion . There was with Obignie , one Monbirneau ( who was thought to have been an actor and executioner of the Massacre in France ) extreamely dissolute in his conversation , and therefore much hated , feared and abhorred of all men , which did reflect upon Obignie for his entertaining , and familiarity with him . The Ministers spake and preached openly and plainly against them both , and the English Embassadour ( Sir William Bowes ) desired Monbirneau to be removed off the Counsell as such an one , and when it was refused , he likewise refused to deliver his message , or to shew his Commission , for so he had been commanded by the Queen and State of England . Morton withdrew himselfe as discontented , and retired to Dalkeith , either for dislike of the present estate of things , or out of feare and doubte of some danger , or inconvenient , or for both ; neither did hee come to Court or Counsell , but when hee was sent for by the King. This disliking of their wayes , made them to dislike the more of him , and his feare caused them to feare him more also : dislike and feare increased their hatred , and hastned their resolution to overthrow him . The way was laid , which was to charge him with the murther of the late King , the accuser ( either made choice of by them , or who did willingly offer himselfe ) was James Stuart ( sonne to the Lord Ochletree ) a bold , venturous and aspiring young man. And so the last of December he was sent for , and being set in Counsell , he was accused by James to his face . The crime was , of being airt and pairt of the murther of the late King Henry . Being greatly moved herewith , he arose from the table , and purged himselfe with great vehemency , as innocent thereof : and offered to abide a legall triall , not onely of his Peeres , but of any Gentlemen whatsoever , though he himselfe were an Earle , and had been Regent . Hereupon hee was confined to his lodging , where he abode all the next day , which was the first of January , and the Sabbath day . So much leasure he had to bethinke himselfe of his case , and what were best for him to doe : he might have seen that it was a quarrell pickt against him of malice , seeing the crime laid to his charge was so hainous , as none but his mortall enemies would have broched , and such as sought his utter ruine . And hee might know that innocency is not alwayes a sure warrant and defence against such : and that it was dangerous to fall into their hands . On the other side , to avoid and shun a triall were halfe a confession of the crime , and would make him seem guilty ; nay it would make him truely guilty of contempt , disobedience and rebellion , which might ( perhaps ) bee the thing they sought ; through feare to drive him to some rebellious act , and so to involve him in a true crime while he sought to eschew a fals accusation ; his friends & followers advised him to take the first way , but he himselfe resolved on the second : for he supposed that they could not convict him by law , and that they would not proceed against him without law , having ( as he thought ) friends that would not suffer it , especially the Earle of Angus , being at liberty , and out of their power . But he had forgotten the old maxim of his predecessors , That it was better to heare the Larke sing , then the Mouse peep ; and their Proverb , Loose and living . On the second of January , hee had a warrant sent to him to enter himselfe prisoner in the Castle of Edinburgh , which he obeyed immediately . As hee went up the street , accompanied onely with his owne domesticks , James Stuart ( his accuser ) was coming downe , and as he passed by , hee said to him ( in an insolent and insulting manner ) fare well my Lord , goe on . His servants would fain have made an end of the accuser , if not of the accusation , but he would not suffer them by any meanes , but held on his way toward the Castle ( without replying any thing ) and so entred there a prisoner . This obedience of his is liable to bee diversly thought of by diverse , and is diversely censured by men ( according to that saying ) Laudatur ab his , culpatur ab illis , it is commended by some , and discommended by others . They blame his wisedome , that he should have trusted , and relied so much upon his innocency , as to have put his life into the hands of his enemies , who used the colour and shadow of the Kings authority , for their owne private ends , and to fulfill their owne malice , and revenge . Others commend him , that being innocent , he obeyed the King , and submitted himselfe to the lawes . The event gave judgement for the first , and all men since are of the former opinion ; yet it may be he did not rely meerly on his innocency ; and that he looked not to have had such a number of enemies , having never deserved such hatred of any ; and that he thought the Nobility would never give way to such extremity , which was an ill precedent and preparative against themselves . But however , God had his worke to bring to passe , and meant to humble him this way ; and therefore his wisedome ( which appeared at other times ) did now fail him , so that hee was confounded in his discourse and reason . There can nothing else bee said or alledged for this grosse errour in so wise a man. This is the first evident step of his falling . They might now doe with him what they pleased , and yet scarce all that they pleased , with safety and security . His Nephew the Earle of Angus was at liberty , and remained at Dalkeith , who being sent for to come to Court , refused to come ; yea , though he were charged under pain of treason by a Herauld to come to the King , yet he would not obey , but was declared rebell . Also Mortons keeper Alexander Ereskene ( master of Marre ) being an honest and kinde hearted Noble man , they could not use any violence toward him , so long as he was in his custody . Therefore they thought it best to send him to Dumbarton : and that they might doe it the more safely , they set forth Proclamations , discharging all men that had any relation to him , or that they suspected to favour him , to come within foure miles of any place where the King was , or should happen to be . So in the 17. or 18. of January , he was brought forth of the Castle of Edinburgh to be carried to Dumbarton . There it did appeare , how the change of mens fortune doth change the minds and affections of people toward them . When Morton dimitted his office and authority of Regent , none of the Citizens would take norice of him , or looke toward him : Now that hee suffers for a good cause ( as they esteemed it , to wit , opposing Obignie , and his courses ) they flock to him , and accompany him out of the town in such numbers and multitude , that his keepers were afraid of them . And that the rather , because some of his well-wishers had ( some nights before ) called the Captain of the Castle , and desired him not to deliver him , or to let him come out ; and had threatned , that if hee should deliver him , it should be remembred as an act of hostilitie , and hee reputed and used as an enemy . They that were his convoy were commanded , if any should come to rescue him from them , that they should kill him rather then suffer him to escape . The Queen of England by her Embassadour , Master Randolfe , interceeded for him , and told the King and Councell , that she understood that hee was a true and good Subject , a worthy Noble man , and free of that he was accused of . Shee desired that he might be tried by an assise ( or jury ) and that his enemy ( knowne to be so ) Mounsier d' Obignic ( now made Earle of Lennox ) who was also an enemy to the reformed Religion ( as being a Papist ) might bee removed off the Counsell . It was answered , that the King was not so farre bound to any forraign Prince , as to change his Counsellers at their request , or to trie his Subjects but where and when he pleased . The Embassadour discontent with this answer , gives up all bond of friendship , and having denounced warre , returned into his owne Countrey the 27. of March , 1581. Hereupon a taxation was imposed , and a company levied of 1000. foot , and some horsemen , to be a Guard for the Kings person . James Stuart ( the accuser ) was preferred to be a privie Counseller , is made Baron of Bothwell-haugh ( say the notes ) Lord Hamiltoun , Earle of Arrain , and Captain of the Guard ; with most ample Commission to apprehend whomsoever he suspected , and to banish and punish at his pleasure ; especially any that favoured the Earle of Morton , of whatsoever degree , ranke or quality . But the English intended rather to threaten then to make war indeed ; and they knowing that well enough , went on with their intended projects against Morton . He being still kept prisoner in Dumbarton , learned a lesson there , which he had not well learned till then . Let the prophane be silent , and let mockers leave off their mocking , and let all mortall men know that there is a happinesse which consists not in honour or riches ; that there is a God who disposeth of all things , who is All-sufficient , and who is able alone to satisfie and content the mind : few there are that know , or consider it , but when they are brought to such a point ; and happy is he that can doe it then . He had heard of it before , and beleeved it , but had not taken it so fully to heart , nor felt it by experience . Now he sees , now he feels and findes it really , and experimentally . He contemns the world , and his riches are vile in his eyes , his glory vanity , and all his delights madnesse . He findes that one thing is necessary , and is all that is of man , which is , to reverence God. Hee sees his over-sight , in that he had been so slacke and carelesse thereof before : now he goes about it as he can , and labours to amend his fault ; hee reads the Scriptures , and meditates on them ; he makes his use , and findes comfort therein : he sees his sinfulnesse , and repents him thereof ; sees Gods mercifulnesse , and layes hold on it . He acknowledges himselfe to have been miserable when he seemed to swim in happinesse , and that now hee was truly happy when he seemed overcharged with miserie , in respect that God had given him leasure to meditate and thinke of his end , and time and grace to repent , while being sequestrate from all worldly affaires , and restrained by his imprisonment , his minde had full scope and libertie to raise it selfe to those better and higher thoughts of the life to come , and of eternity : wherein he found such contentment and resolution , that now death was no more death to him , nor terrible , and that all the horrour thereof was swallowed up with the hope of those eternall joyes and pleasures which last for evermore . Thus being prepared for that last act , he was sent for to give proofe how well he could practise and make use of this lesson . For on the 24. of May the Earles of Arran and Montrose , with some companies of horse and foot , brought him from Dumbartan to Edinburgh the 27. to Robert Gourleyes lodging , which was one of the strongest in the Citie . Before they tooke their journey ( on the 22. day ) proclamation was made , commanding all that favoured him ( in generall ) to depart out of the towne , and not to come within ten miles of the King and his Court ; and particularly some 52. Citizens by name were expressed , and strictly charged to goe forth of the Citie . After foure dayes respite ( the first of June ) he was called to the Tolbooth , and there empannelled , and convicted by a Jurie , and found guilty of the late Kings murther . The sentence was given out by the Earle of Montrose , who was Chancellour of the Assise , and it is said to have beene pronounced in these termes ; The Jurie ( or Assise ) doth finde him guilty of being airt and part of concealing the murther of our Soveraigne ( King James his father ) the late King Henry . When Morton heard it , he repeated these words twice over , Airt and pairt , airt and pairt , and without speaking farther , he held his peace . It is reported that the Jurie did finde him onely guilty of concealing the murther , and that Arran and Montrose , thinking that to be onely guilty of concealing was not sufficient matter of condemning him , did foist in these words ( airt and pairt ) to give it the greater sound , and to make it be thought and understood , as if he had beene found to be airt and pairt ( that is , deviser , contriver , plotter , and partaker or accessary ) to the Kings murther , whereas he was onely found to have concealed it . This made one that heard it , and perceived the sophistry thereof , to say , that they had stollen his head from his shoulders by sophistry . His known enemies ( the Lord Seaton and Wauchton ) were of his jurie , yet it is thought they did him no wrong in their verdicts . But however , it shewed partiall dealing , in that they would not suffer them to be set aside when he excepted against them as knowne enemies . Being asked at his death what he thought of the judgement ; he answered soberly , that he would leave them to God and their owne conscience : but he perceived that whether he had beene guilty or guiltlesse , as Stephen , or Judas , all had beene one , his death had beene concluded before ; for his lawfull and legall exceptions were not admitted , his enemies were on his Jurie , ( naming the two former ) and such as were partiall , and not indifferent , who had given partiall counsell against him , by name the Earle of Argyle . He added also that it was not his death alone that would content them , and that they would not stay there , others should be put to it as well as hee , he was but made a precedent , and preparative to make way for the rest : the cause was the maine thing they aimed at . However it were , whether the sentence were thus involved and wrested , or if it were plaine and cleare ; whether it were indeed so given out by the Jury , or if it were thus patched out by Arran and Montrose , he was conveyed backe againe to his lodging as a condemned man. There he carried himselfe after his wonted manner , his countenance was no wayes cast downe , or changed , he supped cheerfully , and slept soundly , without any apperance or shew of feare , or solicitousnesse . About three of the clocke in the morning hee arose and wrote letters ( for the space of three houres ) with his owne hand to the King , and afterward laid him downe againe and slept till nine . These † Letters were sent by the Ministers who came to visit him , but Arran and Lennox would not suffer them to be received . When he was up , Master Walter Balcanquell , and John Durie ( two of the Ministers of Edinburgh ) came to him , and had long conference with him , which is set downe at length in the Historie of Scotland , written by Francis Boteville , called Thin , an Englishman , and joyned to Hollinsheds Chronicle , so that he who desires to know it , may reade it there . The summe of it is his confession concerning such things as they questioned him of , 1. And first concerning the murthering of the King , he said he was neither airt nor pairt thereof , and that being prest by the Earle Bothwell , he would never consent to it . And although ( say the notes ) Bothwell alledged that the Queene had determined it , and divers Noblemen had given their consent under their hand-writing , and had sent to him to desire him to put to his hand also ; yet he answered resolutely , that he would in no wise meddle in it , nor be guilty of innocent bloud . As for the Queen ( said he ) though it be so , yet women will say and gain-say , she may in her anger doe or say that which afterward she will repent her of . Nay , when Bothwell promised to bring her consent thereto under her hand-writing , yet he refused to joyne with him upon any termes ; and to avoyd his importunitie , he passed over to Saint Andrewes to visit the Earle of Angus , who was then a Student in the New colledge there ; neither did he see or meet with Bothwell after that , untill such time as the fact was committed . 2. As for poysoning the Earle of Athole at Stirling , he said he was neither author of it ( if he were poysoned ) nor any wise accessary or conscious to it ; that he detested and abhorred all such formes of dealing even with enemies , and was sorry to think that so base , foule , and wicked practice should creep into this Countrey , which was already guilty of too many , too common other sins of its owne : he said also that he was not such an enemy to Athole , as that he would have done him any hurt , though he had found him lying asleep by the way side . 3. Touching the Earle of Lennox , he said , he never wished him any hurt , so farre was he from conspiring against him . Onely it grieved him that he knew the estate of this Countrey no better , and that he saw not what danger the King was in , and that he was induced by perswasion to bring home such as were enemies to the true Religion , which he purposed to have let him understand , and hoped to have advised him better , when they had beene better acquainted , and more intimately familiar . 4. And as for carrying the King to England , he said , he would not have done it for a world , unlesse it had beene to have made him King of England : that there was never such a motion made to him directly nor indirectly by the Queene , or any other in England or Scotland : that he never had any pension of her . 5. As touching his setting up and maintaining the estate of Bishops ( whereof there had ensued great debate and contention betwixt him and the Ministery ) he said , it did not proceed of any ill minde , of any malice , or contempt of them , or their callings , but meerly out of want of better knowledge , thinking that form of government to be most conforme to the rules of policie , and to be fittest for the times . That if he had then knowne better , he would have done otherwise , and that he had intention ( if he had lived ) to have made amends . 6. Concerning his incontinencie , and worldly mindednesse , he freely acknowledged and confessed it , seriously repented , and craved God pardon for it , and said , he firmely beleeved to obtaine it : that he saw mercy , and had found more grace during the time of his trouble , then ever hee had done all his life before . 7. For his detaining of some Citizens of Edinburgh in prison , he said , he had not done it out of any spleene , or private quarrell against the men ; but the matter of bringing in Bullion being then in hand , and he being informed that these men did hinder it , he thought it his best course to commit them till such time as the businesse were done : Wherein , if he had wronged them , he was sorrie , and craved them pardon , & forgivenes . His counsell to the Earle of Angus ( his Nephew ) was doubtfull : for he said he durst not advise him in any particular for the present , because he thought it would endanger his life if he should come to Court ; and not to come ( if he were commanded ) would hazard his estate . His best were to use what meanes he could to obtaine the Kings favour and leave , that ( life and lands safe ) he might serve God , and him , in a private retired manner , which he would wish him to doe in all humility , and to submit himselfe and all to the Kings will and pleasure . To the King ( his master ) with all submission ; yet in the name and fear of God , he would exhort him to beware of Papists , either profest , known or suspected , who ( as he thought ) were become too too familiar with him : that he would continue in the true Religion , and fear of God , & entertain in his company such as loved it , according as he had bin bred and brought up , & not to make defection from it , or slide back , else it could not be well with him : he feared there was danger , which men should see when he was gone . He remembred the admonition which master Knox gave him when he came to visit him on his death bed ( or a little before ) being newly made Regent : God hath ( said Knox ) blessed you with many blessings , he hath given you wisedome , riches and friends , and now he hath preferred you to the government of this Countrey ; use these things well , and better than hitherto you have done ; alwayes to his glory who hath given them you : first by advancing the Gospel , and maintenance of the Ministers , and the whole Church ; next , by procuring the good and welfare of the King , the Countrey , and all good subjects ; which if you do not , God shall rob you of them with shame and ignominie . This he spake ( said he ) and this I finde now , yet I doubt not , but God will be mercifull unto me . He was much with them in prayer , and very earnest to have their aid & assistance therein ; whereof he acknowledged that he received great comfort . He reasoned of the natural fear of death , which sticks and remains in men , even though they have assurance of the forgivenesse of their sins ; wherein hee declared his own sense , and the collections he had made in his reading , since his going to Dumbartan . He said , that in the History of the Bible , he had observed Gods wonderfull mercy toward the children of Israel ; who when they sinned against him , he chastised them ; when they repented , he forgave them ; and though they sinned again , and were corrected again , yet when they cryed to him again , he forgave them again , he hoped so of himself , that God would forgive him also . He shewed them a Book he had about him , which had been sent to him by the Lady Ormeston , when hee was first committed , which he had read , and made good use of it : it was M. Bradfords Meditation of Death ; hee caused M. Balcanquell to read a passage or two of it , ( which he had chiefly noted ) and as he read , Morton discoursed thereof to his own comfort , and their great satisfaction and contentment . He professed , that now he heard with other eares , and read with another minde and sense than he had done in former times . This Book he sent back to the Lady by Master James Lowson , with many thanks , acknowledging he had been bettered by it . When break-fast was brought in , he desired them to take part with him , & spake very chearfully to them , telling them what a difference there was betwixt a man troubled with cares , and him that is resolved and free from them . The last night ( said he ) before I came to my triall , I could not sleep nor take rest for thinking how to make my defences ; but all this night I sleeped very sound , having nothing to trouble me , but to make my peace with God. After noon , M. James Lowson , M. John Davison , and divers others of the Ministerie came to him . There he embraced M. John Davison , and said to him , You wrote a Book , for which I was angry with you , but I never meant any ill to you , forgive me M. Davison was so moved here with , that he could not refrain from weeping . Then he repeated again before them the same things which we have set down before . The Ministery hearing that the King was otherwayes informed of his Confession , than was true , sent John Durie , David Ferguson , and John Brand to his Majesty , who informed him rightly , and related things as they were . They being returned , his Keeper ( William Stuart , as I take it , brother to Arran ) required him to come forth to go to the place of execution : To whom he said , They have troubled mee much to day with worldly businesse , wherefore I supposed they would have given me this nights leisure to have thought of things which concerne my soul : But his Keeper replied , I think they will delay no longer , for all things are ready . If it be so ( said Morton ) so am I too , I thank my God. And so ( after a prayer made by one of the Ministers ) he went down the stairs without any farther stay . The Earle of Arran met him by the way , and brought him back to the chamber again , willing him to stay till his Confession were set down in writing , that hee might signe it with his own hand . But he , and the Ministers that were present with him , entreated that he might not be any more troubled with that matter , seeing they had all heard it sufficiently . Then Arran desired that he would forgive him for what he had done , seeing he had no particular against him . He answered , that it was not time to remember quarrels ; he forgave him and all others , as he desired they would forgive him . So he went to the Scaffold very resolutely , and repeated the same things in audience of the people , which he had spoken before in private . He added moreover : The King ( sayes he ) shall this day lose a good servant , who dieth professing the Gospell taught now in Scotland : and though I have not walked worthy of that profession ( as by the grace of God I should have done , if I had lived longer , to the hazarding of my Life , Lands and all ) yet am I perswaded of Gods mercie in Jesus Christ. And here I charge you all to continue therein , and to maintaine the same to the uttermost of your power , and God shall blesse you , otberwayes you shall not escape his punishment . Then while the prayer was conceived by Master James Lowson , he fell down all along flat on his face : during which he uttered great signes of being mightily moved , which he expressed in his sighes and groanes , which many of the beholders saw evidently did not proceed from fear , but from the spirit of grace working powerfully in his heart . Prayer being ended , he stood up , and his friends came to take their leave of him , and after he had bidden them farewell , he saluted the Ministers , and took them all severally by the hand , and bade them farewell in the Lord. After all was done , he went without fear or dismayednesse , and laid his neck upon the block , crying continually that happie song , Lord Jesus receive my spirit , till the axe ( of the Maiden , which he himself had caused make after the patterne which he had seen in Halifax in Yorkshire ) falling upon his neck , put an end to his life , and that note together . His body was carried to the Tolbooth , and buried secretly in the night in the Gray-friers , his head was affixed on the Gate of the City . Thus he died the 2. of June 1581. proudly ( said his enemies ) and Romane-like as he had lived : constantly , patiently , humbly and Christian-like , said the Pastors , who were beholders , and eare and eye-witnesses of all he said and did . These outward motions being so like to other , are hardly discerned but by a skilfull and unpartiall eye . Wherefore the judgement and testimony of the Pastors deserves best credit ; they being best able to distinguish nature from grace , and being freest from prejudice and partiality . His enemies censure may justly bee suspected as coming from that same disposition which moved them to plot and work his death . And certainly if we observe and consider his whole carriage and discourse , during the time of his imprisonment , and at the very point of his execution , he must be voide of all charity that doth not judge the best of his confession , profession , and Christian disposition . So that it seems to be more than humane hatred and enmity , to be thus affected toward an enemie after his death , to kill him again by an uncharitable construction of his devotions , and piety towards his God. Livor post fata quiescit . Envie ceaseth after death , and so let it do toward him . If a man would see a pattern of one , exercised in all the changes & vicissitudes of fortune , who had gone through & tried all the estates and conditions of humane life ; let him cast his eye and look upon our Earl of Morton , in his child-hood , in his riper years & manly estate , and in his old age , in peace and in warre , in private and publick employments . In every thing he took in hand , in every estate and condition , he acquit himself with credit , honour , and even admiration . When he was a serving-man , he was industrious , carefull and faithfull ; when he came to an estate , and was a Nobleman , he behaved himself as if he had been bred such from his infancie . In Court , he acted the Courtier , in Councell , a States-man , abroad in England , being sent thither Ambassadour , he approved himself to both Nations , and gained great reputation of sufficiencie . While he enjoyed the favour of his Princesse , he was not puffed up ; and being in disgrace and banished , he was not casten down . He was a faithfull Colleague and fellow-governour with others ; and when he came to be sole and supream , this Countrey never enjoyed greater peace , and a more flourishing Regencie . Being returned to the condition of a private Nobleman , he obeyed as well as before he had commanded . And last of all , when he was accused , condemned and executed , he shewed himself to be himself , and a good Christian. He was well skilled , as in politick government , so in oeconomie , from the shrub to the scepter , from planting of Cabbage in his Garden , to the weelding of the Sword and Scepter in the seat of Justice . The smallest and meanest points of husbandry did not escape him , and the highest and deepest points of State were not above his reach . So that the saying of the Hystorian concerning Cato Major ( In hoc viro tanta vis animi ingeniique fuit , ut quocunque loco natus esset , fortunam sibi ipse facturus fuissevideretur ) Is no lesse true , and mayas wel be applyed to Morton . And that also which followes ; Nulla ars neque privatae , neque publicae rei gerendae ei defuit , urbanas , rusticasque , res pariter callebat . Hee was slow of speech by a naturall stayednesse and composed gravity . He was of a middle stature , rather square than tall , having the hair of his head and beard of a yellowish flaxen . His face was full and large ; his countenance majesticall , grave and Princely ; he was affable and courteous to all , yet so as to keep bold encroachers aloofe , and so familiar as not to forget to keep his distance . He was given to gather riches , yet without oppression or fordidnesse and basenesse : For hee was liberall upon occasion , and not unkinde or unmindefull of his friends . Of which disposition I remember this instance ; when John Halden ( of Gleneagles ) with his friends of the house of Marre ( especially the Abbot of Driebrugh ) came to him to agree with him for his wardship ( hee being Regent ) told them that hee had bestowed it on Isabel Hume daughter to Sir David , and sister to Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , and that hee might take her and it together , which hee did accordingly . This came meerely of himself having never been spoken to , and when there was none that belonged to the Gentlewoman near him , to motion or suggest it to him . He was also calme and not easily moved to anger , and apt to forgive and forget injuries or contentions , that had been betwixt him and any other . This appeared in his carriage toward Master Knox , who had used him roughly , and rebuked him sharply for divers things , but especially for his labouring to set up and maintaine the estate of Bishops . For howsoever he took it hardly for the time , yet when Master Knox lay a dying , he went and visited him , and after he was dead , was present at his buriall ; where hee gave him this honourable and ingenuous testimonie ; Here lyest thou ( said he ) who wert never afraid of the face of man in delivering thy message from GOD. Hee set a foot a great good work , and would ( no question ) have seen it perfected , if hee had brooked his Regencie a while longer , which was the reducing of our Lawes into a more easie forme and method , than now they are . The care of this was committed to , and the task laid upon Sir James Balfoure , and Master John Skeene Clerk-Register , and Master of the Rols . The work ( as I am informed ) was well advanced , but when he quit his authority , they left off any further proceeding in it . And I have heard since some question it , whether or not it would have done good to the subjects , as if it were to be doubted whether it were better to have some order than none at all . So apt are men to calumniate any thing that hinders their particular emolument , or limites their unwarrantable power , and curbs them from doing what they list . Hee kept a Concubine or two , because of his Ladies being distracted and frantick , and was even too much set to heap up treasure . Yet his care was , that his enemies should not be enriched by it ; and his luck was answerable to his care . For those on whom he would have bestowed them ( if hee had had power and opportunitie to distribute them according to his minde ) by good fortune lighted on it ; I know not if they got all of it , or if it were divided according to that proportion , which he perhaps would have observed . James Richison of Smeeton ( his brother-in-law ) got a share of them , having been trusted with the keeping thereof ; Jannet Sharpe his Lemmon another share , James Douglas of Spot got some part thereof ; and some very small portion ( as is thought in respect of the whole summe ) came to the hands of Archbald Earle of Angus , after his returne from his first banishment . A notable example of the uncertainty of these corruptible riches , and of worldly treasure , which cannot be preserved from the digging through of the thief , the eating and consuming of the moth or canker-worme , or she dispersing and scattering of an unfaithfull hand and heart . Though he imployed himself much about it , and thought it a great point of wisedome thus to store up wealth ; yet at his death hee saw and confessed it to be but vanity and folly . If wee admit Morton to be a judge or witnesse ( and what better either judge or witnesse can we finde ? ) he will decide the question betwixt the two ( both self-pleasing ) parties , which do challenge ( each to himself , and derogates from the other ) that high honour and title of wisedome ; I mean betwixt him that seeks after , and labours for worldly honour , dignity and riches : and him that having his minde raised higher and pitched upon better things , slights these earthly things as trash , not worthy of his thoughts or care . The worldling cals , and thinks him a foole , and he esteems no better of the worldling ; and each laughs the other to scorne . Who then shall be judge or witnesse ? Seeing all are parties ; and there is no man but is either of the one side or of the other . Certainly , we may judge best by the confession of the parties themselves . Of which the last never yeelded , never gaine-said or be-lyed their assertion ; while they live they avouch it , and at their death they do confirme it much more . Though Chrysippus tormenter do torture them , though the world ( for the want of it ) do afflict them with contempt and despising , still they stand fast , and stick to their point unshaken and unmoved . The worldlings , by the contrary , sometimes while they flourish in prosperity , ever when they are in adversity : Sometimes while they live and are in health , ever when they lye in dying , confesse against themselves , and cals all their labour and pains about it folly and vanity . So did Morton amongst others , which the wise will lay to heart , and make their use of it . Jacobus Duglassius , Mortonius Comes , Prorex pr●… JACOBO Sexto , Edinburgi securi percussus Anno 1581. Hunc specta Heroem , celso cui spirat ab ore Majestas , toto & pectore rarus honos . Augustos inter terrarum lumina , reges Pro Rege , & Domino , regia sceptra tulit . Consilium , imperium , virtus , facundia , census , Quaeque homines capiunt , quaeque dedêre dii , Unus cuncta fuit . Nihil ad fastigia summa Defuit , aeternum si sua fata darent . Sed viden ' ut subito fatorum turbine versa Omnia , & in praeceps pondere pressasuo ? Discite mortales mortalia temnere , & illa Quaerere , quae miseris non rapit aura levis . Joh. Johnstonus in Heroibus . James Douglas Earle of Morton , Regent , beheaded at Edinburgh , 1581. Behold this Heros how his looks be grac't With Majestie , what honour 's in his breast ! How high his port may to the world appear ! He rules a King , and doth his Scepter bear . Counsell , commanding , and perswasive Art , What ever men injoy or gods impart , Is found in him : If Fortune did remain Constant , no greater height he need obtain . But ah ! what sudden change is here ! this state Falne with its own weight lyes opprest by Fate . Observe it well , and learn those goods to prise Which never can decay ; the rest despise . Of Archbald ( the third of that name ) and ninth Earle of Angus . NOw we come to Archbald himself ( the third bearing the name of Archbald ) son to David , as hath been said . He was thrice married ; first to Margaret Ereskin , daughter to John Earle of Marre , who was Regent of Scotland immediatly before Morton . Shee was a beautifull , chaste , and vertuous Lady . Shee lived with him but few years , and died without children . After her , he was married to Margaret Leslie , daughter to the Earle of Rothus . She lived with him the space of years , after which he was divorced from her for her adultery . She likewise had no children . His third wife was Jeane Lyon , daughter to the Lord Glames ( Chancellour ) and Relict of Robert Douglas of Logh-leven . She bare to him a daughter after his decease ( named Margaret ) who died about the age of fifteen years a maid unmarried . He was bred and brought up with his Uncle Morton , as wee have said , who was his Tutor and Guardian . He studied in S. Andrews in the New Colledge with Master John Douglas Provest of that Colledge , and Rector of the Universitie , till he was fifteen years of age . Aster that , he lived at Court with his Uncle , having with him his Pedagogue Master John Provaine , who endeavoured to instruct him in the Latine tongue , and taught him his Logicks & Rhetoricks , but with such successe as is customable to youth and Nobilitie ; nature , counsell , and example drawing them rather to the exercises of the body , which are more agreeable to their inclination , and are esteemed more fit and proper for their place . Whereas Letters are thought onely necessary and usefull for mean men , who intend to live by them , and make profession of some Art or Science for their maintenance , but no wayes either suitable or requisite in Noblemen , and such as are of any eminent rank or degree . For these they are judged to be too base , and he that affects them , pedantick and of a mean spirit . Nay most men do accompt the studie and knowledge of them prejudiciall , hurtfull , and no small let and impediment to politick activenesse , and that it doth abate the courage of the minde and vigour of action , which is requisite for their charge and calling of being States-men and Warriours . A perverse and pernitious Tenent , and farre contrary to the practice of the most famous Captains , and Princes in all ages ; such as were Julius Caesar , Scipio Africanus , Alexander the Great , and Pompey called the Great also ; of Trajane , Antonius , Charlemaigne ; and almost of all the Grecian Worthies . And yet ( we heare ) that the Nobility ( in France especially ) accompt it a reproach to be called or esteemed learned , and deeme it honourable to be illiterate and ignorant . Much good may this honourable ignorance do them , ere any wise-man envie it . As for the Earle of Angus , sore did he repent him of this neglect , and greatly did he blame himself for it . Especially in the time of his last banishment , during which he laboured to have repaired that losse and over-sight of his youth , by reading and hearing read to him Latine authours of all sorts , both Historians and others ; chiefly Junius and Tremellius translation of the Scripture , which he took great pleasure and delight in . And though the defect of practice in his youth could not be altogether and fully supplyed , yet such was his naturall judgement , that in expressing of his minde either by word or writ , none could do it more judiciously-and sensibly ; and in dictating of Letters or any other thing , he even equalled ( if not over-matched ) those who would challenge to be the greatest and most skilfull Artistes therein . This was well known , and ingenuously acknowledged , and witnessed by Chancellour Metellane ( of honourable memorie ) who having lighted upon some letters of his written with his own hand , so well conceived and penned , that some who heard them read , supposed they had not been of his own penning , but that he had onely transcribed them , that they might seem to be his own ; he on the contrary affirmed ( and it was true ) that they were of his penning , and that he did seldome use any mans help that way , being himself very sufficient and able to discharge it . Concerning his actions in the time of his uncles Regencie , wee have spoken of them above in his life ( as the fittest place for them to be remembred in ) and we need not repeat them here . After his death , finding no sure footing for him in Scotland ( amongst these who were authours of it , and would seek to secure themselves from all revenge thereof by making him away in like manner ) being commanded by the King , and summoned in his name to come to Court , he retired into England . There hee was kindly received , and honourably entertained by the bountifull liberality of that worthie Queen Elizabeth ; partly in memorie of his uncle , but no lesse for his own sake , being of such great hope and expectation , conceived by the appearance of his present vertues , his wisedome , discretion , & towardlinesse , which made him acceptable to all ; and begot love and favour both from her Majesties self , and her Councellours and Courtiers that then guided the State ; Such as Sir Robert Dudley ( Earle of Licester ) Sir Francis Walsinghame Secretary ; and more especially , he procured the liking of him who is ever to bee remembred with honour , Sir Philip Sidney I mean ; like disposition , in curtesie , of nature , equality of age and years , did so knit their hearts together , that Sir Philip failed not ( as often as his affaires would permit him ) to visit him , in so much that he did scarce suffer any one day to slip , whereof hee did not spend the most part in his company . He was then in travell , or had brought forth rather ( though not polished and refined it as now it is ) that his so beautifull and universally accepted birth , his Arcadia . Hee delighted much to impart it to Angus , and Angus took as much pleasure to be partaker thereof . There were with him at this time in England , of the name of Douglas , James Lord Torthorrell , and Sir George his brother ; two sonnes of Mortons , James of Spot , and Archbald of Pittendrigh : Also James of Maines , and Sir George of Langnidderie . There were besides these ( of note ) onely John Carmichael and his sonnes , together with Hugh Carmichael : the rest were but his ordinary servants and dependers . He resided openly at Court , being no Rebell , and not convicted or guiltie of any crime committed against his Prince or Countrey . No such thing was laid to his charge by his enemies ; otherwayes the receiving and entertaining of him had been a breach of the peace betwixt the Kingdomes . All that could be alledged was , that he had withdrawn himself from the furie of his enemies . And yet , as if he had been a Rebell and forfeited , they intrometted with his rents and estate for their own use . He spent his time there , in learning to ride great horses , and handling of his Armes and Weapons , together with using such courtly and manlie exercises as became his age and place . But above all , he was carefull to observe the Government of the Countrey , and Policie of that State and Kingdome ; making his own use thereof for his bettering , both in Christianity and civill prudencie . He looked with an heedfull eye upon mens wisedome , and through that , upon Gods working by their wisedome ; he noted the actions of those who were the guiders of that State , Court and Countrey , saw their aimes and designes ; and comparing them with his own affaires , and things fallen out at home , he called to minde what had befallen his Uncle Morton ; who ( like them ) had no lesse flourished , but was soon cut down and withered : who had been so powerfull and honoured but a little before , yet in a moment ( as it were ) was overthrown and trod under foot . His thoughts also reflecting upon himself , and his own condition , how hee was forced to forsake his own Countrey , and depend upon the estimation of strangers ; that though for the present he were somewhat respected , yet it was uncertain how long hee should be so , no longer than they should think it profitable for their own estate , and conduceable to their ends . From hence raising his minde to the contemplation of all humane affairs , and of all mortals , men of all degrees , even of Princes themselves , he learned that ( which few will , and care to learne of any ranke , and fewer doe practise that are in high places , whose places crave action , and action over-treads contemplation ) hee learned ( I say ) truly to contemne all worldly things , such as riches , honour , dignities , and the like ; and truly to long and seeke after heavenly treasure , which perisheth not , and bringeth with it no anxietie , or solicitude of minde , having the soule fully set and fixed on God alone . Many speake of it , and that very well , and not without some sense and feeling thereof , but it lasts not , save for a fit , and sudden flash . We are all of us too earthly , and favour too much of earth , from whence we were taken , and of which we were made , and thither also we bend , and tend ever down-ward , what through our naturall propension that way , what by example of the multitude , which like a violent stream of an over-bearing floud , carries us along , if we be not firmly built upon the rock of heavenly resolution , and unlesse we keep fast our hold by perpetuall and never-intermitted meditation . For him I dare avouch it , that howsoever he refrained from outward showes , for feare of falling into ostentation , or whatever other wayes he was employed about in regard of his place and calling , yet his minde was ever ( even in the midst of businesse ) wholly bent to God-ward , and would have beene glad to have beene freed from all thoughts and affaires which had any mixture of earthly things . And this disposition wrought in him by his being exiled , he esteemed no small benefit and advantage of his sufferings ; so that in private where he expressed himselfe freely , without all maske of ceremonie or nicenesse , he hath many times been heard to thanke God very heartily and seriously , with grave words , and settled countenance , saying , That hee would not have exchanged the crosse of his first banishment for all the Crownes and Princes estates in the world : farre lesse for an Earledome , or Lordship , such as Angus , or Douglas . So did God work with him by adversitie . While he was thus working upon himself in England , and framing his heart after a new mould and fashion ( which few knew or dreamed of ) God was preparing the way for his return to his place and honorsin Scotland . The love which his Countrey-men bore to him was great , and likewise generall , and almost universall ( as it did commonly follow that popular name of Douglas , to which it was in a manner hereditarie ) even in regard of his owne courteous , milde , and towardly disposition , and of the great hopes and expectation of excellent fruit from so noble and worthy a plant . This being accompanied with his suffering , and innocencie , together with his harmlesse youth , age did move pitie , and stirre the affections of most men toward him . As for particular friends , hee wanted them not ( as few Noblemen in this Countrey doe , all the Nobilitie being linked and bound one to another by Kindred or alliance ) his house having beene so eminent of a long time , and there being few of the Nobles , but were either descended of it , or tied to it by some consanguinity , affinity , or other relation . And therefore one would thinke it strange that he should have beene so long banished : yet when we looke upon his uncle Mortons case ( who had the same friends or more ) it is farre more strange that hee should have come to such an end . But as in this , when the appointed time came , nothing could hinder his fall and overthrow : so in Angus his case , untill the time appointed by God did come , nothing could worke his restitution . What the estate of businesse was at his departure , we have told already in Mortons life , ere that yeare came fully to an end ( or not long after he had beene a yeare in England ) there fell out a change at Court , which was thus : Esme Lord Obignie ( now Duke of Lennox ) and James Stuart Earle of Arran , had ( with their great riches and honours ) acquired much hatred from all sorts of men . The Ministerie were offended at them for making master Robert Montgomerie Archbishop of Glasgow , ( an Office then odious and unlawfull , as being against the Lawes of the Countrey , and ordinance of the Church ) and were jealous of the one as a suspected Papist , and perswaded that the other ( to wit , Arran ) was a downe-right Atheist . The Nobilitie stormed and grudged at their extraordinary and sudden preferment . For James was made Lord Hammiltoun , Abercorne , Bothwel-haugh , and Earle of Arran , with a power almost absolute ( given or usurped , under the name of Captaine of the Guard , and the pretext of pursuing the Douglasses ) to apprehend , imprison , and put on the racke whomsoever he pleased . Obignie was made Lord of Dalkeith , Tantallon , Darlin , Torbouton , and Duke of Lennox , Keeper of the Castle of Dumbartan , and great Chamberlaine of Scotland . Thus did they overtop and overshadow the rest of the Peeres , as tall Cedars doe small Shrubs , to their great discontentment and disdaine . The Gentlemen were so used by them , that they esteemed themselves brought into a thraldome and slaverie , none of them being sure of their estates , which were wrung from them by colour of law ( the cloake of their oppression ) and all fearing the rage and unlimited violence , especially of James Stuart , who was composed of nothing else , and whose actions were sutable to his disposition . The Burrowes were alienated by being cut short in their priviledges , liberties , and immunities , which were quarrelled , retrenched , cancelled , and taken away , according to their humours of avarice , and desire of gaine , and according to the pleasure and suggestions of their informers and parasites . With this their exorbitant increase of power and insolencie , as the hatred of others did increase toward them , so did variance arise betwixt themselves . The first occasion hereof was the carrying of the Crown at Parliament : this was proper , and is the hereditarie right and priviledge of the house of Angus , and he being now banished , and the Duke of Lennox having his estate , either for that regard , or because of his more honourable descent , or by the advantage of the Kings favour ( which he had in greater measure then Arran ) we cannot affirme ; but so it was , that he was preferred to bear it . Arran stormed at this , & protested that his bearing of it at this time should not be prejudicial to his claim , who being descended of the house of D. Mordack ( which was nearest to the King ) ought in reason to have carried it ; yet he renounced all title to the kingdom , notwithstanding of this extraction of his pedegree , and challenging of this honour . This renunciation was derided by some , and disdained by others , as a great malapartnesse , and high presumption in him , who being but lately raised from so meane a fortune and estate , durst utter such speeches as bewrayed such vast and high thoughts , as to aime at no lesse then the Kingdome , if ever ( the Kings owne race failing ) the right thereto should come in question , and happen to be controverted . And indeed his designes are thought to have flowne to no lower pitch , which ( perhaps ) had beene no very hard or impossible taske for him , if he could as well have kept out the Hammiltouns ( who could onely pretend right to it ) and the Douglasses ( whose power and authority was the greatest in the Countrey ) as hee found meanes to cast them out of Court and Countrey . For then he had had no Competitor but the Duke of Lennox , and him , being a stranger ; and subsisting meerely by the present Kings favour , he nothing doubted to supplant by his craft and violence , joyned with such a colourable claim . Another occasion of discord fell out by Sir John Seaton , son to the Lord Seaton , and Master of the Kings horses . As the King was about to goe to his horse to ride a hunting , Arran having something to speake to him in private , all men were commanded to remove , which all did saving Sir John , who being by his place to wait upon the King , and set him on his horse , stayed still , and did not remove with the rest . Arran seeing him to stay behind the rest , either threatned to throw his batton at him , or did throw it indeed ; for hee carried a staffe or batton as Captaine of the Guard. Sir John would have requited this affront , but was hindred by the Guard , who carried him downe staires , and so parted them for that time . The next day Sir John , his brother Sir William , and the Lord Seaton himselfe , were all commanded to keepe their lodgings ; which the Duke ( who favoured them ) tooke so ill , that he refused to come abroad that day . At last they were so divided , that the Duke carried the King with him to Dalkeith , and Arran abode in the Palace of Halyrood-hoose . There were with the Duke , the Lord Seaton , Maxwell , ( then Earle of Morton ) with some others . Argyle , Ruthven , ( then Thesaurer , and lately made Earle of Gowrie ) the Secretarie , the Controller , and other Officers of State , stayed with Arran , and tooke upon them to make the body of the Kings Councell , and to sit as such . But all their Decrees and Conclusions were dashed by the King in person , which they wanted . These broiles lasted from the end of October till mid-Februarie , about which time the King returning to Halyroodhouse ( from whence Arran had removed before ) and from thence going backe againe to Dalkeith , he sent for him , and reconciled him to the Duke , after which they became greater friends then ever they had beene before : so that Arran would doe nothing for any man but what hee knew stood with the Dukes good liking But this union betwixt themselves divided them the more from others , and others from both of them ; for now hee that had any businesse with either , behoved to sue to both , and hee that disliked , or bore ill-will to either , was forced to fawne on him also , or to hate both , and seeke the overthrow of them both alike . At the Justice Aires in Perth 1582. in July , in some contest betwixt the Duke and the Earle of Gowrie , the Duke spake some reproachfull words to him in French , which Gowrie not understanding then ; afterward , when he had learned what the meaning of it was , he upbraided the Duke for ungratefulnesse , telling him , that was all the thanke he got for having twice saved him from being killed . Thus was he alienated , or thus did he bewray his alienation of minde , which lay hidden till now it burst forth . Another time the Chamberlaine Aires being indicted to be kept ( the 28. of August ) by the Duke ( then Chamberlaine ) which was a Court very odious to the Burrowes , as being rather a legall robbery , then a Court of Justice , and upon which it is thought he was set of purpose that he might incurre more hatred , which commonly falls out , when a former generall dislike doth meet with private grudges . This Court ( I say ) being indicted , while the Duke was busied in preparing for it , and he with Arran having left the King , were at Edinburgh and Dalkeith about such things as was necessary thereto : the foure and twentieth of August the King came from his hunting in Athole to Ruthven , where Gowrie , assisted by some of the Nobilitie , removed the Guard , that were under the command of Arrane , with no great adoe , and laid hold also of the Earle himselfe as he entred into the house of Ruthven , and conveighed him into a close roome , where he was kept , and not suffered to come neare the King. He had , upon the first surmising of an alteration , come from Edinburgh with a company of some fourescore horse , but hearing that the Earle of Marre was at Kinrosse in his way , hee sent his company with his brothers ( Robert and Henrie ) and he himselfe with one or two taking a byway , came to have slipt into the Kings presence before they had beene aware of him . But Gowrie being advertised hereof , met him at the gate , and had straightwayes killed him , if George Authenlecke ( sometime servitour to Morton ) had not held his hand as he was about to have pulled out his dagger to have stabbed him . His two brothers , with their company , were defeated by the Earle of Marre , of which Robert was wounded also , and taken prisoner . There joyned with Marre and Ruthven openly , Thomas Lion ( Master of Glames ) Lawrence Lord Oliphant , together with Sir Lewis Ballandine of Achnowle ( Justice-Clerke ) and others . Before Marre came , the Guard made some difficultie to admit them , and grant them entrance into the Kings chamber : for they serving for pay , and being put in , and commanded by Arran , when they heard what had happened to their Captaine , made an offer to resist , and not to suffer any man to come neare the King , unlesse hee should signifie his pleasure to be such . Sir Lewis Ballandine conceiving great indignation hereat , asked at master David Hume ( who by chance was come thither , and stood next to him ) if he had a pistoll about him , which he gave him , but withall said to him , Be not too hastie to shoot , let them alone , you shall find that their fury will soone fall ( lacking their Captaine , and a head ) and that they will give way , when once they see the Nobility approach . And so they did indeed , for the Earle of Marre being come , and the rest joyning with him , they shranke away and gave place . When they came to the King , they shewed him the necessity of doing what they had done , in regard of the violence of Arrane , and their feare and suspition of the Duke of Lennox : That there was no other way to remove the generall discontent of his Subjects , and to prevent the dangers which would follow thereupon to himselfe , and his Crowne , then by removing of these men from about him , whose unjust actions , and violent oppressions , reflected upon his Majesty , to the great prejudice of his honour and estate , as also to the great disadvantage of Religion , and the good of his people . The King assented to what they said , either because he thought it to be the true , or rather , ( as appeared afterward ) that he might seeme to approve of that which hee could not resist . So they goe to Perth , then to Stirling , where their Proclamations were set forth ; the one containing the Kings Declaration , concerning what was done at Ruthven ; that it was for his service , and acceptable to him . In the other the Duke of Lennox was commanded to depart out of the Realme of Scotland before the 24. of September . There was a third also , by which the Chamberlain Aires were discharged to be kept . The Earle of Angus had ( a little before these things ) come down from the Court of England to Berwick , in expectation of this change ; and now having notice given him by these Noblemen of what had passed , he stayed a while in the towne , and thereafter came into Scotland : yet did he not goe directly to Court , but came to Cumledge in the Merse , a house within eight miles of Berwick , which belonged to Archbald Authenleck ( a follower of his Uncle Morton ) and lay next adjacent to his Barony of Boncle . There he remained till Master Bowes , and Master Cary ( Embassadours from the Queen of England ) came into Scotland ( the 11 of September ) and did by their intercession obtain of the King , that hee might be assoyled from that crime of Rebellion , which his enemies had put upon him , because he had not obeyed their charges given out in the Kings name , to come to Court , which was indeed to come into their power . Neither did he presently after hee was relaxed come neare the King , untill he had assurance that the King was very well contented , and desirous that he should come to him ; but stayed some five weekes , expecting his full and free consent therein , that his return might bee such as could not be excepted against . The King delayed him a while , that hee might be beholding to him for this favour , and he was contented to stay so long , that the King might see he was willing to receive it at his hands as a favour , and that by so doing , he might fully remove all hard construction that his Majesty could make of his withdrawing into England . He had presence of the King the 20. of October ( about two moneths after he came home ) in the Palace of Haly-rood-house , where hee was kindly and lovingly received , to the great contentment of all men , and with great commendation of his modesty ; for that hee had patiently waited for his Princes pleasure so long a time , and had not abruptly rusht into his sight , which many would , and he might have done easily had he pleased to have made that use of the times and opportunitie which was offered : but his disposition was not that way set ; he was truely of a milde disposition , abhorring all turbulencie , every way towardly , inclining to peace , and to all submission toward his Prince . Now being thus returned , gladly would hee have lived in quietnesse , and injoyed the Kings favour still , as he had it at this time , and willingly would he have served him as a faithfull and loyall Subject according as he had been pleased to have imployed him , without further stirring or meddling with any thing , or any person . Neither ( as I thinke ) did the world ever know , or bring forth a more calme and quiet spirit , voyd of ambition and covetousnesse , as also of all envie and malice to any creature , which are the chiefe causes of restlesse and tumultuous practices . He was also mindfull of Mortons counsell at his death , who advised him to doe so : and being alreadie in so honourable a place ( first of the Nobilitie ) he had little or nothing else to desire or hope for , if hee could have been assured to possesse his owne in peace . But finding the Countrey divided , the dregs of the old faction that stood for the Queen , still working underhand , and by it the Romish party labouring to undermine the true reformed Religion , and such as had been instruments to establish it , upon whose ruine these new men ( by their new courses ) did indeavour to build their preferment , so that none could with surety live in any honourable place , as a good Patriot , but behoved to take part with them that stood for Religion , and undergoe the like hazard as they did . Besides , these Noblemen had ( in very deed ) wrought out and made way for his returne from exile , by removing of those who were ( as common enemies to all honest men , so more particularly ) his especiall enemies , having been authours of his Uncles death , and who had seized upon his owne lands and possessions . They were also his near kinsemen , and deare friends , Gowrie and Glames were come of his house , Oliphant was of his alliance ( having married Margaret Douglas , daughter to William of Logh-leven ) and Marre was his brother in law , and no lesse his brother in love and affection , which continued without the least breach or diminution , so long as he lived . These private and publick inducements thus meeting and concurring , he could not esteem that cause to be more theirs then his owne , and therefore could not choose but embrace it as his own , that is , to the utmost of his power . Therefore he joyned with them in it sincerely for his owne part , but they continued not long undivided amongst themselves . For the Duke being divers times charged to voide the Realme , after divers shi●…ts and delayes , at last he went through England into France in the moneth of December , and not long after he died there the 27. of July 1583. After he was gone , they being rid of that feare , there fell out dissention betwixt the Earle of Gowrie , and Secretarie Pitcarne ( made Lord of Dumfermeling ) in April 1583. The King went to the Castle of Saint Andrewes in August , and there the Earle of Gowrie ( having changed his minde with the change of affaires ) tooke a remission for his fact at Ruthven , as being Treason , and so by his owne confession condemned himselfe , and all his partners therein , and by separating himselfe from them , overthrew the cause , and them with it . All this while after Angus his returne , there was nothing done worthy of memory , save that he ( out of his love and respect to his Uncle Morton ) caused his head to be taken downe from the City gate , and honourably buried with his body , the 10. of December 1582. The chiefe instrument in this change , was William Stuart , a brother of the house of Goston , who had beene a Colonell in the Low-Countreyes , and was then Captain of the Kings Guard. Gowrie had brought him home , and preferred him to the Kings service , of purpose to counterpoyse the greatnesse of Arran : but they were so wise , as not to crosse one another ; but on the contrary , they did aid and strengthen each other all they could . By this Williams means , the authours and actors of the fact at Ruthven were strictly commanded to depart from the Court , and the Earle of Arrane recalled thither again . Angus had joyned with those of Ruthven , yet because he had not been an actor there , and had had no hand in it , he hoped that they would suffer him to live in quietnesse at home . Secretary Walsingham ( Embassadour from Queene Elizabeth ) had gotten a promise of the King that he should be fully restored to all his lands and possessions , and hee had relied thereon , and waited long for the performance thereof ; but finding nothing but delayes , he perceived they had no good meaning toward him . And so indeed it proved , for Marre , and the master of Glames were confined in Argyle , the Castle of Stirling ( of which Marre and his predecessours had been keepers time out of minde ) was committed to the custody of Arrane , and the Earle of Angus was confined beyond Forth . Before his going to the place of his confinement , hee wrote to some of his friends to accompany him thither for his safety in his journey . This being knowne at Court , it was interpreted to be done of intention to surprise the King , who was that day to goe abroad to his haulking . It was alledged also , that Marre and Glames were to meet him at Achnoweshill , and to joyne with him in his surprisall . Hereupon the King having risen by times that morning to goe to his sport , and being ready to take horse , was stayed that day , and curriours were sent out to try how matters went , and whether that report were true . Some of these scouts came to the Key-stone , ( for that way Angus tooke of purpose , being furthest off from the Court , that he might be out of their danger , and they freed from all feare of him ) and found him riding in a peaceable manner , accompanied with a small train of his domesticks onely , and those but halfe-armed ( which was ordinary then , even in the most peaceable times ) and no wayes prepared for warre . Hee desired them to tell his Majesty that he was going toward the place of his confinement , in obedience to him ; and they did relate the truth very faithfully and honestly to the King. This rumour ( of surprising the King ) was said to have proceeded from one of his owne name , who having been in Tantallon the day before , and perceiving that there were letters in writing , which they did not communicate to him ( as Angus did never impart businesse to any , but such as were his intimate friends , and there having been some difference betwixt him , and this Gentleman , he never used him after that so familiarly ) made this conjecture of their secrecie , and whispered , it to the Courtiers , who were apt to beleeve it : whether he did indeed suspect some such thing , or if it were raised onely by envious , and malicious persons , we cannot affirme , but fame laid the blame of it on him ; for that he , having been so late over night at Tantallon , had made great haste to be in Edinburgh that night , and came to Court before day light : and that upon his coming , the Kings haulking was stayed ; yet it is uncertain , for he was commanded also to depart out of the Countrey . The Earle of Angus crossed Forth at the Queens Ferry , and went to his owne house at Aberdowre ; but because there hee was too neare the Court , and so obnoxious to suspition , hee removed from thence to Kinrosse : and to secure them yet more , leaving his houshold there behinde him , he went almost alone to Lesely , a house belonging to his brother in Law , the Master of Rothusse . Being there , he moved him , and the Earle his father to deal with the Courtiers to grant him so much favour as to suffer him to live a private and retired life , at one of his owne houses in the Countrey farre from Court , and State businesse : but they were so farre from yeelding to any such thing , that whereas he had been charged onely to remaine beyond Forth before ; now hee is sent to remain beyond Spaye . Wherefore hee takes his journey thither , and came to Dundie ; and from thence toward Elgin in Murray . Master Scrimger of Diddup ( Constable of Dundie ) would needs bring him on his way ; and as if he had intended no more , caused carry his haulkes with him , but by no means would leave him till he came to his journeyes end . By the way he being well knowne , tooke upon him to be the chiefe man , and gave out that Angus was his sonne in law , the Laird of Inshmartin . This hee did , least the Courtiers should have laid some ambushment for him by the way , hee being to passe through a Countrey , where their partie was strong , and where they had many favourers , having none of his owne followers with him , save Robert Douglas of Cavers , Gentleman of his horses . So he passed the Carne-Mont with great celerity and haste , the rest of his houshold following after by easie journeyes . Great was the care his worthy friend the Constable had of him ; and many wayes did hee labour to keepe him from melancholy , and to divert his thoughts from too much dwelling upon his present hard condition : there was no kinde of sport or game , which he did not afford him with all the varietie he could devise to entertain him , and to cheare him up : till the court , envying even this small contentment to him , commanded the Constable also to goe off the Countrey ; yet was hee never destitute of friends ; such was the sweetnesse of his disposition , and of such power and force was it , that it wonne the hearts of all the Gentlemen in those quarters to him : such as the Innesses , Dumbarres , Hayes , and others , who did all strive who should shew most affection toward him , by inviting him to their houses , and feasting him by turnes , and using of him with all courtesie , and respect ; so that hee could not have beene more honoured and regarded amongst his dearest friends , and nearest kinsfolkes . Nay , such was their love to him , that hearing some surmises of no great good will borne to him by Huntley , they of their own accord came to him , and forbade him to bee afraid of him , for they would spend their lives in his defence , and for his safetie , if the Earle of Huntley should attempt any thing against him . Wherefore it was thought that they being thus affected ; he durst not adventure to execute any Court plot against him , which he wanted no good will to do , and otherwayes would have done . Yet was this the place of the Kingdome , where all Huntleyes power and friendship lay very neare at hand , and where Angus had least acquaintance and fewest friends , all of them being meere strangers to him , without any other bond of obligation or tie of relation , but what his vertue and worth had gained in that short time of his being amongst them and conversing with them . The Courtiers at this time were at no small contest and variance with the Ministers ; chiefly with Master James Lowson , Master Walter Balcanquell , John Durie ( Ministers at Edinburgh ) and Master Andrew Melvin , Principall of the new Colledge of Saint Andrewes , and Professour of Divinity there . The occasion was this ; they had at a Generall Assembly approved the fact of Ruthven by the Kings especiall commandement , and now being desired by the Courtiers to condemne it , they refused to doe it . Both sides alledged the Kings authority ; the Courtiers pleading , that such was his will now : and the Ministers , that it was not such then . The Courtiers said that he was a captive then ; and the Ministers replyed , that ( perhaps ) he was so now : that they saw not any thralling of him then ; and that it might as well be alledged hereafter that he was a captive now , as it was alledged now that hee was a captive then . As for the particular quarrels of either side , they said they knew them not ; but one thing they knew , that they were as good men , as Noble , as worthie , as well affected to his Majestie who were with him then , as those were who were about him now ; that they were as free from all suspition of unsoundnesse in Religion , nay , much freer , the others being at least suspected . In which regard they could not retract what they had done , and could not but allow of their fact who had removed from the King , men that were not altogether free of suspition . What private ends or aimes they had , was unknown to them , as also they were ignorant what the respects were which they now had ; both pretended the Kings will ; but they were sure of this point , that the removing of suspected men was a good office , and made for his well being , and that the instruments thereof were instruments of a good work , whatsoever were their intentions . Thus most of them spake : Others expressed themselves more harshly , saying , that wicked men were removed , and such as were enemies to the Church , to the Countrey and to the Nobility , who sought their own preferment with the overthrow of all , that they might be built upon the ruines of all these . These speeches were very unsavourie to the Earle of Arran , to the Colonell Stuart , and the Prior of Pitten-weeme . It rubbed upon them , and ( by consequent ) as they would have it appeare ) reflected upon the King. Wherefore they called it sedition , and stirring up of dissention betwixt the King and his Subjects . So they informe the King , and by their Information , animate him against them . Wherefore John Dury behooved to be removed from Edinburgh to Monrosse : Master James Lowson , and Master Walter Balcanquell were rebuked onely . Master Walters Text was treason ( against the Courtiers ) and spake too much though hee had said nothing . It was that passage of Ecclesiastes [ I saw Princes walking on foot , and servants riding on horse-back ] that is , Great and worthie men displaced , and base men set up in their room ; to which doctrine hee added an admonition , that they should look to themselves when the cup of their iniquitie should bee full . Master Andrew Melvin was dilated to the King and Councell by one William Stuart , that he had said in a Sermon of his , That the King was unlawfully called to the Kingdome ; but he craved , that seeing he was accused of wrong doctrine , that hee might bee tried by a Generall or Synodall Assembly , who are the proper judges of doctrine delivered from the Pulpit . It was answered , that he should have no other than the King and Councell , who ordained him to enter himself prisoner in Black-Nesse . Whereupon hee fearing , and informed that Colonell Stuart and Arran had no good meaning toward him , fled secretly to Berwick . Before his departure , hee drew up his Apologie , of which it will not be amisse to set down the summe , as a testimony of his innocencie and equity of his cause , as also of the violence , and iniquity of those times , that so it may appear more evidently what just grounds and reasons the Noblemen had to labour to have things redressed , and such enormous insolencies repressed . First , He protested solemnly before God and his Angels , that he never uttered either in that Sermon or in any other , any one word which might import any disgrace or slander of his Soveraigne the Kings Majestie : but had ever exhorted all men to yeeld him all reverence and obedience : that hee had ever , and still did acknowledge him his lawfull Prince and supreame Governour in civill matters ; that he had ever , and even then prayed for his preservation and prosperity : Secondly , that his desire to bee tried by a Synod of the Church , did not proceed from any intention to call his Majesties authority in question , but onely because they were appointed to bee the ordinary judges of any thing delivered in preaching , In primâ instantiâ . He alledged for this a plaine Act of Parliament , and a conference betwixt certain Lords of the Councell , and some Ministers deputed by the King , who had agreed upon this conclusion . Thirdly , hee said that Councels and Doctors of the Church did think that the triall of such things is most conveniently and fitly to bee taken in the place where the slander is raised , and scandall given ; which was Saint Andrewes , for there that Sermon was preached : Fourthly , hee pleaded , that the priviledges of the University , granted and given to it by former Kings , and confirmed and ratified by his Majesties self , made the Rector and his Assessors , Judges to all Ministers , Masters and Students that were Members of the same , and were accused of any offence committed within the liberties thereof . Fifthly , that he spake nothing but what he had good warrant for from scripture . Sixthly , that he had for him ; first , the testimony of the Universitie , signed by the Rector , and sealed with their seal ; secondly , the testimony of the Church-Session in S. Andrews , subscribed by the Ministers , Elders and Deacons ; thirdly , the testimony of the Provest and Bailiffs , and town Councell , signed by the town Clerk by their commandement , and sealed with their seal ; fourthly , and last of all , the testimony of the Presbyterie , subscribed by the Clerk thereof : which testimonies were of more value to absolve him , than any one mans accusation was to condemne him . Seventhly , he desired that he might have the common priviledge of all the Subjects , which was to know his accuser , and the prerogative of a Minister of Gods word , that an accusation should not be received ( or put in processe ) against him ; but under two or three witnesses . Eighthly , that his accuser might be liable , and incurre the punishment due to him by the Acts of Parliament , if his accusation were found to be false . Ninthly , that the Defender might have place , and be permitted to object against his Accuser : And that if William Stuart were the man , he would prove that the said William had professed hatred against him , and had threatned him to do him bodily harm ; in which respect , his information was to be suspected if he were the Delatour , or if he were a witnesse his testimony was not sufficient . Notwithstanding of all this , yet he said , he would simply declare the truth in the presence of God and his Angels , so far forth as his memory would serve him . He said , his text was , Daniels expounding of the hand-writing on the wal to Baltazar . Here he observed how Daniel in reproving Baltazar for not giving glory to God for his benefits toward him and his father , and for abusing the vessels of the house of God , did apply the Text ( of the hand-writing ) to Baltazar . From hence ( and other places of Scripture ) he inferred , that application ought to be made of examples ( whether of mercies or judgements ) by the Ministers of the Word ( as Daniel was ) to Kings , as was Baltazar : And that the nearer the example touched the party to whom it were applied ( as that of Nabuchodonosor , who was father to Baltazar ) the more forcible it would be . This ( said he ) is the right way of application , but who doth it now-a-dayes ? Or if any do it , who cares for it , or is moved with it ? If a man should now apply the example of our Predecessours to these times , as of King James the third , how his Courtiers and flatterers abused him , would they not say that he raved , and wandered from his Text ? Nay , perhaps , accuse him of Treason . Secondly , he said , concerning these words which his accuser did alledge to have been spoken by him ( that our Nabuchodonosor , to wit , the Kings mother , had bin banished twice seven years , & would be restored again ) as it never came into his mind , so did he not remember the words , or any expression tending to that purpose , or importing any such thing : Thirdly , As for that speech ( That the King was unlawfully called to the Crown ) or any thing sounding that way ; he protested before God , he never spake it , nor did he ever doubt of the lawfulnesse of his Majesties authority , which the Church had ever maintained , & he himself constantly avouched , as all that knew him could bear witnesse . That it was true , that in speaking of Nabuchodonosor , he had said ; That first , howbeit he had succeeded to his fathers Kingdome , and that when he was of ripe years : secondly , though he were endowed with wisedome , learning , liberality , and other vertues : thirdly , though he had conquered and purchased divers Territories and Countries , as a valiant Captain ( having been Lieutenant to his father ) in his fathers time : fourthly , And although he were made King ( after his father ) by all the Nobility : yet Daniel maketh mention of none of all these , but saith , That God gave him the Kingdome . From whence he gathered as a firm conclusion ; That , by whatsoever way Kingdomes do come ( whether by election , succession , or conquest , whether by ordinary or extraordinary means ) it is God that gives them , & he that makes Kings . But ( alas ! ) men do forget this that are in high places , as experience doth shew : And not only Atheists and Idolaters , but even godly Kings are subject to this forgetfulnesse . David extraordinarily called , Salomon also extraordinarily , and Joas extraordinarily preserved and crowned in his tender years , did all forget the ordainer , all forget God their advancer ; and he therefore did chastise them . That instead of applying this to the King , he did ( as his custome ever was , when he spake of his Majestie ) turne and convert it into a Prayer : That since such was the weaknesse of Godly Kings , it would please God of his mercie never to suffer our King to forget Gods goodnesse and mercie toward him , who had called him extraordinarily to be King of the Countrey : first , being but a childe in his Cradle : secondly , his mother yet alive : thirdly , a great part of the Nobility his enemies : and fourthly , some of them still pursuing of him , ever since the heavie burden of government was laid on his shoulders . He concluded that these were his formall words , upon which , what ground any man could have to build such accusation against him , he referred it to the wisedome of his Majestie and his councell , who , he hoped , would not give eare to such who through malice did stretch or wrest his words , or through ignorance did mistake them ; not being able to distinguish betwixt extraordinary calling , and unlawfull calling . This Declaration he set forth , not so much to beg favour or releasement , but to render the reason of his chosen and voluntary exile . Divers moe than he , who suffered as he did , and for the same cause , set forth likewise their apologies to justifie themselves , by clearing of their innocencie , and shewing the causes of their leaving the Countrey & their callings . The Courtiers did interest the King in all these quarrels , and laboured to embarke him therein the deepest they could : and by all meanes strove to make him beleeve that all was against him , and that their aime was at him , whom they wounded through their sides : and fain they would have perswaded all others to the same . But all were not so blinde : there were manythat could , & did distinguish and separate the Kings cause from the Courtiers ; and did shew that as they hated them , so they loved him . Especially the Ministery , who at a Generall Assembly ( held at Edinburgh in November ) appointed a generall Fast to be kept throughout the whole Kingdome , and gave out the reasons thereof to be : first , The abounding of wickednesse : secondly , The danger of the Church : thirdly , The danger of the King : fourthly , The danger of the Common-wealth ( which all were meant , & did directly point at the rulers of court chiefly ) through their wickednesse , Atheisme , want of Religion , Godlessenesse , Popishnesse , or Libertinisme , avarice , aspiring ; Who being sole ( said they ) or chief about the King , under the shadow of his authority : first , do trouble the Ministery : secondly , seek to pervert his Majestie , and draw him ( if it were possible for them ) to the same contempt of Religion ; that so in time he might become a persecuter and enemie to the Church , and overthrow it altogether : thirdly , do tread under foot the Common-wealth of this Countrey , by banishing the best of the Nobility , who do love God and the Church best , and are best affected toward the Kings welfare , that they in the meane time may possesse and brook their Lands and Inheritance : And fourthly , who suffered murther , oppression , witch-craft , whooredome , and many other sinnes to passe unpunished and uncurbed . This Fast continued the space of a Week , including both the Sundayes . The Courtiers ( notwithstanding of this ) contemning and slighting all admonitions , kept on their own wayes and course of committing , banishing , discrediting , and weakening of all such as they thought did favour the Nobility , and were not forward enough to further them , and advance their faction . They ingrossed all places of power and authority to themselves ; dis-armed , dis-abled , and diminished all others , and even derided them . Of which dealing I will recompt one example amongst many : I have made mention above , how some discord and variance fell out betwixt Pitcairne , Abbot of Dumfermling , and the Earl of Gowrie . Hereupon Gowrie ( to match Pitcairne ) had reconciled himself to the Courtiers , and was thought to side with them ; and especially to be very intimate with Colonell Stuart . Pitcairne laboured to out-shoot the Earle in his own Bow , and for that end sues to the Colonel for his friendship , which because he knew that it was vendible , he sent him the price thereof ( according to his estimate ) in gold . The Colonell liked the mettall , but not the condition , and therefore he kept both his friendship and the gold to himself ; and having shewed it to the King and Gowrie , deriding him , said , that the Abbot had sent him that to draw the King to favour him ; and thus was he flouted , and wiped clean of his Moneyes . William Douglas of Logh-leven was confined in the Merse , for no other fault , but because he was a Douglas , and an upright honest man as any was in the Kingdome . Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , because he was in Kinne , and a friend of the Earle of Angus , was sent prisoner to the Castle of Downe beyond Forth : Sir James Hume of Coldinknows was committed to the Castle of Edinburgh ; Master Cunninghame of Drummewhasle was like wise imprisoned ; and Master John Colvill brother to Cleish had been served in the same kinde , if he , fearing their rage , had not prevented it by fleeing . Many others were used after the like sort , it being a sufficient crime to favour any of the discourted Noblemen . Last of all , a Proclamation was made , wherein the Fact at Ruthven was condemned as foule , abominable , and treasonable , and all the actors therein ( or favourers of them ) were commanded to depart from Edinburgh , and not to come hear the place where the King was , or should happen to be , under the pain of death . The Earle of Gowrie had taken a remission for it , but it served not his turne , nor did him any good at all : for he was particularly charged to go off the Countrey , and not to remain in Scotland , England , or Ireland , with a non obstante , notwithstanding any remission obtained before . And to secure themselves yet further , they prohibited all men to carry Pistols , except the Kings Domesticks , and his Guard. They brought home also into Scotland , Lodowick Duke of Lennox ( son to Obignie ) being then but a child , to strengthen their party , and to tie the Kings affection so much the more to them . He was restored to his fathers estate , & ( as a part thereof ) to the Lordship of Dalkeith . This being Angus his inheritance , they thought it would engage the Duke in a perpetual enmitie with him , as it is ordinary for a man to hate him whom he wrongs . On these & the like grounds they established to themselves ( in their own conceit ) a perpetuall & safe estate ; which they had so fastned and linked with the Kings , that neither could be brangled without the shaking and over turning of the other . But these courses produced a quite contrary effect , & even then wrought such disposition in men , as did at last over-throw all their plots , and themselves withall . So frail , and so unsure a foundation is iniquity . For Angus as he was altogether innocent of any thing that could be alledged against him , even in their own judgements , so was he universally beloved of all , by an hereditary popularity from his Auncestours , and more for his own known vertues ; and therefore being thus wronged in his person , and in his inheritance , he was pitied of all . Marre in like manner , being descended of an honourable , ancient , faithfull and loyall race of Progenitours , as also for his own good parts and conditions , was beloved in like sort , and pitied , notwithstanding that he had been an actour at Ruthven . The Earle of Gowrie ( by the contrary ) was greatly hated by the Courtiers , and little set by , or regarded by the other partie . He had assisted ( with his father ) at the slaughtering of Rizio , and was the chief man and principall authour and actour in the fact of Ruthven . Yet had he changed his minde and side at S. Andrews , repented him of what he had done at Ruthven , condemned it , and taken a remission for it . Now being casten off by the Court , and commanded to depart off the Countrey , he repents him of his repentance , and condemnes his condemning ; and would ( if he could ) salve all again by his recanting and retracting of this last act . But as the committing of the fact had made him to be hated by the Courtiers , so his condemning of it had brought him to be suspected of the Noblemen . He had condemned himself , and did deserve to be condemned , either for that he had done at Ruthven , or for his condemning of what he did then , and taking a remission for it . He had given a colour to the adverse party to condemne it by his confession and example , and had furnished them with that argument whereby to presse the condemning of it upon the Ministerie or others . For that was their maine argument , and the string they most harped on , Gowries confession of a fault , and remission for it . All this notwithstanding , he desires to joyne with the Lords , and offers to tie himself to their partie with the stictest bonds that could be devised . Their case was the same with his ; all to be utterly undone , unlesse some remedie were found ; their enemies were the same with his , the guiders of Court ; neither should they onely bee overthrown , but with them and through them the estate of Religion , and of the whole Countrey . This as it was spetious , so was it most true and certain , and which could not be denied . But what society could be sure with the Earle of Gowrie so often changing ? If his changing proceeded from fraud and deceit , who could joyne with him ? Or if it were from feare , what sure hold could they have of one so fearfull ? Even Angus himself ( whose nature was farre from distrusting ) could not but distrust and suspect him . Onely , his present case seemed to plead for his sincerity at this time ; which was such , that he knew not where to shelter or secure himself , but by joyning with them . For he was charged to depart out of the Kingdome , which was a token of no good will , nay of true enmity with Court : or certainly , a deeper dissimulation than any man could conceive . And as necessitie did force him to take part with them , so were they also no lesse urged by necessitie to admit and receive him , in respect of his great power & friendship in those quarters . The Earl of Athol and the Lord Oglebee ( two Noblemen of great power and command ) were his sonnes-in-law : Inshe-chaiffrey and Drummond his dear friends ; and he himself was Sheriffe of Perth , and Provest of the Town . Wherefore Angus his confinement being enlarged to the North-water , and he residing in the Castle of Brechin ( his brother the Earle of Marres house ) he sent one Master David Hume , whom he trusted , to conferre with him , that hee might trie and sound his minde as narrowly as he could , and report to him what hee found . The Gentleman found him in words , in countenance , and in gesture greatly perplexed , solicitous for his estate , besides the affairs of the Countrey , and greatly afraid of the violence of the Courtiers . So that looking very pitifully upon his Gallerie where we were walking at that time ( which hee had but newly built and decored with Pictures ) he brake out into these words , having first fetched a deep sigh ; Cousin ( sayes he ) Is there no remedie ? Et impius haec tam culta novalia milcs habebit ? Barbarus has segetes ? Whereupon he was perswaded of his upright meaning , and at his returne perswaded the Earle of Angus thereof also . So partly upon this assurance , partly enforced by necessity ( there being no possibility to be strong in those parts without his concurrence ) hee resolved to assume him into their fellowship and societie . Then did those scruples and doubts arise in Angus his minde , which are incident to honest natures and loyall dispositions . Hee considered that banding against Courtiers would be called , and seem to be combining against Authority and the King ; for hee would take their part for the present : so was he to force his will , whom his heart carried him to honour . But what should hee doe ? There was no other way ( that he could devise ) to secure their estates , their houses , themselves , their Countrey , and all honest men from oppression and ruine , to preserve Religion ( which ought to be dear to all men , and was dear to him ) nay , even to save the King himself ( whose safet●…e did consist in the preservation of the Church and Kingdome ) and to deliver him , and pluck him out of the claws of these Harpies , whose oppression and wickednesse did reflect upon him , and redound to his dishonour : For whatsoever they did , was done in his name , and said to be the Kings will and pleasure . Their banishing of Noble-men , and oppressing of all sorts and ranks of men , without difference or respect , so that there was no honest man but stood in continuall fear of losing his life and estate : all this was laid upon the King. Their avarice was insatiable , their malice cruell , and their suspition unsatisfiable . They stood not upon reason , law or right ; any pretence ( which they never wanted ) served them for a warrant to seize mens persons or estates . Their ordinary course was to summond a man super inquirendis , and if he did compeir , to commit him to a free or close prison ; if hee were afraid , and did not compeir , hee was found guiltie of rebellion , denounced , and his goods seized . They would be sure not to want witnesses to prove any thing against any man , by torturing his servants , or himself , to wring something out of him , which might bee matter against him , through impatiencie , and the violence of the Rack : At least hee should bee sure to bee vexed by re-examinations , and with-drawn from his necessary affairs , that so hee might bee constrained to buy his libertie and leave to stay at home , with some portion of his land , or a piece of money . These doings of theirs , though many knew that the King did not allow of them , yet being coloured with his authoritie , were apt to alienate ( and might in time produce that effect ) the mindes of the Subjects from their Prince , as also the heart of the Prince from his Subjects , by their filling his ears with jealousies , and by making vertue a cause of suspition , and him that was vertuous in any eminent measure , suspected and hated ; and on the contrary , vice and the vicious to have vogue and credit , and to over-rule all . How could this bee obviated , unlesse these men were removed ? And how could they be removed without controlling of the King ? And to contrary him ( though it were for his good and sasetie ) how ill would it be taken by him ? Invitum qui servat , idem facit occidenti : To save a man against his will , is commonly rewarded with slender thanks . Patriam & parentes cogere etiamsi possis , & utile sit , tamen importunum est : To save a Prince against his will , and to force him for his good , how dangerous a point is it ? For they account it as their life to reigne , and no reigning without absolutenesse , unlesse they reigne at libertie , without any controllment , were it never so little . But there was no remedie ; whoso undertakes any great enterprise , must resolve to passe through some danger . And it is good for Kings sometimes that their hands bee held . had Alexanders hands been held when he killed Clitus , hee had not offered to kill himselfe , nor should Calistines have needed to take such pains with him , to make him digest his griefe for it . If speeches could have prevailed with the Courtiers , the Ministers had tried that way , but with bad successe : for they were accounted seditious and traiterous for their liberty and freedome therein . Wherefore there was nothing remaining but to remove them at what ever rate : and if his Majestie should take it ill for the present , future obsequiousnesse would make it appeare , that what they did , was in love and humilitie , and no wayes out of any treasonable or malicious intention , or out of arrogancy , pride , or presumption . The French Proverbe taketh place ; Il faut passer par la : there was no other way besides ; no audience , no accesse could bee had to him by any other means . So they conclude to joyne their pains , and to partake of the perill . The way resolved upon , was , to assemble themselves at Stirling with their Forces ; there to supplicate the King , and to make their declaration to the Countrey : to intimate their grievances and desires , with all respect to his Majestie , and with all evidence and plainnesse , against the Courtiers . For this end , the Earle of Marre and Master of Glams should bee sent for , and first finde meanes to take in the Castle of Stirling ( an easie taske for the Earle of Marre to performe , having his friends lying near to it , and the Towne devoted to his service ) then the Earle of Gowrie should goe thither ( who lay nearest to it ) together with the Earle of Athole , the Lord Oglebie , the Drummonds , and the Murrayes : Next to him the Earle of Angus from Brechin , to whom his friends would repaire out of the South parts , the Merse , Liddesdale and other parts : The Earle Bothwell , my Lord Lindsay , and diverse others of the Nobilitie were also on the party , and had promised to joyne with them . Being once Conveened , and having the affection of the Ministerie and Burrowes , they hoped to bee strong enough against these new mens owne power , assisted onely by their particular friends . If the Kings name were used against them , there behoved to bee a Convention of the Nobilitie , and Barons ; who would heare the Cause , judge impartially , and informe the King truely , without slattery or feare of the courtiers , whom they hated ; neither could they doubt of his equitie , and tractablenesse , when hee should understand how things were . So the businesse should end without bloud , and have a good and happy issue . And if the worst should come , yet were it better to die noblely in the field , then to bee hailed to the scaffold and suffer by the hand of the Executioner . Thus did they propose , but God did dispose of things otherwayes . Men know not the Councell and secrets of the Almightie , whose determination doth onely stand and come to passe . He had not ordained , that they should execute their designs , nor that they should die in the quarrel ; it was to be done by another way , and at another time : the cup of their iniquitie , was not yet full against whom they tooke armes . Wherefore they were disappointed at this time , which fell out thus . The Earle of Gowry was charged the second of March to depart the Countrey within fifteen dayes . Hee shifted and delayed ; this affrighted the Courtiers , or gave them occasion to seeme affraid , and to put the King into a feare and suspition , that there was some enterprise in hand against him : whereupon the Citizens of Edinburgh were made to keepe a watch about the Pallace . Gowrie made shew as if hee had intended to obey the charge ( contrary to the advice of his associates ) and that they might beleeve that his intention was reall , hee goeth to Dundie , causeth provide a ship , and make all things ready ; so that the Courtiers were not more affraid that hee would stay , then his Partners were that hee would hoise saile , and bee gone ; Especially , the Earle of Angus distrusted him , and was jealous of his dissimulation , being uncertaine whether it were with the Court , or with them that hee did thus dissemble . At last having trifled out the time , till mid Aprill , Colonell William Stuart came to Dundie , and having a small company with him , setteth upon him at unawares , and made him save himselfe in his lodging . Then having brought some pieces of Ordnance out of the ships , which lay in the Haven , being aided by the Townesmen ( to whom hee had brought a Commission , and warrant from the King ) hee began to batter the house ; whereupon it was rendered , and the Earle taken prisoner . By chance as this was in doing , a servant of the Earle of Angus , coming from Dalkeith by Dundie , and having seene all that had happened , made haste , and came to Brechen about twelve a clock of the night , where hee gave his Lord notice of what hee had seen . Hee arose presently , being much moved therewith , and sending for the Gentleman , whom hee had imployed to trie his minde before , made a heavie moane , bewailing the overthrow of their cause , and of themselves . Then hee asked his opinion what hee thought of it , and first told his owne , that hee thought it could bee nothing else but deceit , and coll●…sion , which hee had ever feared , and was now evident , that his going to Dundie ( contrary to his advise ) had no other end but this : and that his lingering proceeded from the same ground . For ( said hee ) how could the Colonell undertake to apprehend him with so small a number of men , if hee had not himselfe beene willing to bee taken ? If hee doubted , or distrusted the towne of Dundie , why did hee commit himselfe to them , or come in their power ? Why did hee not stay at Perth , where hee was out of all danger , till the time appointed were come ? Doubtlesse , hee hath betrayed us all , and hath coll●…ded to suffer himselfe to bee taken ; so to colour his unfaithfull dealing with us . It was answered , that hee could not approve his coming to Dundie , which hee ever disliked , and had laboured to disswade him from it , but could not prevaile : yet it seemed a hard construction to thinke that hee came thither of purpose to act a sained apprehending ; that his slownesse and lingering was well knowne to bee his naturall disposition , ( being another Fabius Cunctator in that point ) which hee had often found by former experience , and often contested with him for it . But to thinke him false in such a degree , or to imagine him to bee so foolish as to come in the hands of those Courtiers , with a crime lying on him , ( though but counterfeited ) it was such a point , that for his owne part , his opinion was , that he durst not do it , lest they should make use of it for his ruine , and convert a colluded crime into a true dittie , and so worke his death . But this could not satisfie the Earle of Angus , but still hee kept his opinion , that there was no realitie in that act of Gowries apprehending . And hee was the more confirmed therein , when he heard that the Colonell carried Gowry to the houses of his owne especiall friends , such as Weemes of Wester-Weemes , whose sonne offered to set him at liberty , and to take him out of the Colonels hands , and to goe with him himselfe , which hee refused to doe . Angus passed the rest of that night in great solicitude and feare , lest hee himselfe should bee assailed , and taken after the same manner , which had beene no hard matter to performe , hee having but a small family , and the Castle not being furnished with Armes , the Earle of Crawford lying hard at hand with his dependers , and that whole Countrey being evill affected to him . But whether the Colonell had no Commission to take him , or that hee did not thinke of it , and thought hee had sped well enough already by taking Gowry , is uncertain : but however it were , hee went away with the prey hee had gotten without attempting any thing against Angus . And yet for all that , Angus was not altogether secure , knowing well his danger , and the small power hee had to defend himselfe : for in the day time hee went abroad a hunting , that they might not know where to finde him : and in the night , hee caused his servants to keepe watch , that hee might not bee surprized unawares . Within three dayes after , the Earle of Marre sent to him , to let him know , that the Master of Glames and hee had performed their part of the worke , had taken the Castle of Stirling , and were ready to wait upon his coming , which they entreated him to hasten . There was no choice , they were his true friends , and hee was no lesse theirs : and they were resolved to runne the same hazard in that course , from which there was no retiring for any of them . Angus desired the Lord Oglebee , and Master Oglebee of Powrie , with others of that name , to goe with him . They were allied to the Earle of Gowry , and were well affected to the businesse , as also they were his owne vassals ; but being terrified with Gowries taking , and thinking that their joyning with the Lords would incense the Courtiers to take some hard course with him , and not knowing what his minde was herein , they refused to goe . Hee notwithstanding , goeth with his owne family , from Brechin to Stirlin , and avoyding Perth , he crossed the river of Tay , at that place where it meets with Almont by boat , and comes to Inshechaffray , where he lodged with the Lord thereof , but could not perswade him to take part with them for the same reason , when he came to Stirling he was kindly welcomed by Marre , and the rest that were there ; and presently dispatched away letters , and messengers to Douglas , and other places , for his friends and dependers to come thither to him , with as great speed and diligence as they could . He wrote also to Robert Douglas ( eldest sonne to William Douglas ) of Logh-leven to the same purpose ; but the letter falling into the hands of his mother ( her name was Leslie ) she tooke upon her to answer it after this manner . It is not enough ( saith she ) for you to undertake so foolish a worke , whereby you cannot but ruine your selves , but you would also draw my sonne and house to the same destruction : I have hindered him , and laid my curse and malediction upon him , if hee take part with you , like as I doe upon you , if you make him disobey me . This letter moved him very much , and he caused an answer to be returned to her according as it merited , which was thus . I can very well beleeve that it is your doing to keep backe your sonne from so honourable an enterprise , knowing his owne disposition to bee alwayes honourable and noble , and such as of himselfe hee would not neglect , his duety either to his friends , or countrey . The Noblemen that are conveened here , have entered upon such a course as becomes them , for discharging their duetie both to God and man : what the event will prove , is knowne onely to God , and in his hands alone ; if wee perish herein , wee cannot perish more honourably . Yet wee hope that God , in whom we confide , and whose cause wee have taken in hand , will worke out our safety , and accomplish that which wee intend for the good of his owne Church ; when you and your house ( for which you are so solicitous , with the neglect of the house of God , and of all friendly duety ) shall finde the smart of such carelesse indifferency , and perish ( as we feare , and are sory for it ) through such carnall and worldly wisedome and warinesse . And so indeed the event proved more answerable to this prediction then he wished : for the Lords escaped into England ( for that time ) and were safe in their persons , and within a yeere and a halfe , they brought their designes to passe , ( which were now frustrate ) by Gods blessing upon them : but her sonne Robert , and her son in law Laurence , Master of Olyphant , being commanded to depart the Countrey , as they were failing for France , perished at sea , and neither they nor the ship , nor any that belonged thereto , were ever seene againe , yet how it came to passe is uncertain . The most common report is , that being set upon by the Hollanders , and having defended themselves valiantly , they slew a principall man of the enemies ; in revenge whereof they sanke the ship , and all that were in her : Others say , that after they had yeelded themselves , they were hanged upon the mast . A pitifull case , but a notable example . The youthes were noble , active , and of great hope and expectation , and so great pitty of their losse . But it may shew us how little suretie there is in too great affecting of it ; as on the contrary , how perills are avoyded by hazarding and undergoing of perill . And their case is so much the more to bee pittied , and lamented ; as that they themselves were very unwilling to have followed such perverse wisedome , had they not beene forced to it by their mothers importunitie . The Lords proceeded as they could with their intended course . They caused set forth a Declaration , shewing their minde and purpose , together with the causes thereof , the abuses in Church and Common-wealth . They remonstrated what tyranny was exercised by James Stuart , under colour and pretext of the Kings will and pleasure ; how the Nobilitie , and men of all rankes , were vexed by him ; what mis-reports were made of them to their Prince ; what violence used against them ; what evils were presently felt , and what more were to be feared and looked for hereafter to ensue hereupon : The distraction of the hearts of the people from their Prince , and of the Prince from his people ; the blasting of the greatest hopes of vertue that ever was in a young Prince , and of his pietie , in the solid use of true Religion ; by working feare of the contrarie ; tyrannizing in government , and superficiall profession of Religion , yea of reducing Poperie , or ( which is worse ) of irreligion and Atheisme . They told how deare their Religion , their Countrey , their Prince was to them ; what their owne estate and condition forced them to ; what the care of all these required of them , out of dutie , in regard of their place , being Nobles , and Peeres of the Land , and Privie Counsellours by birth ; how every man , according to his place , was bound to lend a helping hand , but chiefly those of the Nobilitie , yet not excluding either Barons , Burgesses , or men of whatever degree , ranke , or qualitie , when the common Ship of the State was in hazard , and in danger of being overwhelmed and perishing , and when there was such a fire kindled as would devoure all , if it were not quenched in time . How they , for their owne part , after long patience , seeing all things grow worse , had now at last ( being driven thereto by necessity ) called to minde what duty , conscience , God , and the station wherein God had placed them , did crave of them : which was , to endeavour , that wicked Counsellours ( namely James Stuart , called Earle of Arran , chiefe Authour of all the mischiefe ) might be removed from about his Majestie , after such a manner as they could best doe it . And since no accesse was free , and no man durst or would undertake to present their supplications to the King , which contained a true information of his owne estate , of the State of the Church and Countrey , together with theirs ; therefore they had conveened in Arms , not intending any hurt to their Prince ( whom they ever had honoured , and still did honour , and whose welfare was their chiefe end and aime ) or to wrong any good subject , but for defence of their owne persons , untill they should inform his Majestie of that which concerned him , and belonged to them to remonstrate unto him , either in his owne presence , or by a publick Proclamation , that so it might come to his eares , which otherwise these wicked Counsellours did and would hinder him from hearing : and that so it might come to the knowledge of all men , and move the hearts of such as had true , honest , and courageous hearts , to concurre with them in that so honourable and necessary a worke . Wherefore they exhorted all men that they would not , through fearfulnesse , or a vaine opinion of obedience to the pretended command of a Prince ( who then was best obeyed , when God was obeyed , and wickednesse punished ; who did then truly reigne , when wicked Councell was removed ) withdraw themselvs by lurking , & abandon the common good , in hope to provide for their own particular safety , which was not possible for them to doe at any time or in any case ; much lesse under such a man could there be any security for any good and honest man , he being so violent , proud , tyrannicall , unjust , and such a profane mocker of Religion , who would not be tied to , or guided by any law or reason , but was carried away by his owne appetite and ambition , and who was more fit to be the executioner of a bloudy Nero , then a Counsellour to such a just and Christian Prince : farre lesse to be sole Ruler and Commander of the Kingdome under the shadow of his Majesties authority , having so abused and polluted his name , who was so honoured in his cradle , and admired through the world for his hopefulnesse , and great expectation of all princely vertues . Whoso truly loued him , ought to concurre and lend their aid to plucke him out of the jawes of these worse then wilde beasts , that so his estate , kingdome , honour , and person ( both in soule and body ) might be preserved . This was the summe and straine of their Declarations and Letters sent abroad to move men to joyne with them in this businesse , but all was in vaine : for despaire of doing any good at this time had so possessed the hearts of all men , that even the best affected did choose to sit still , and lie quiet . The Earle of Gowries apprehending had so astonished them , and the incertaintie how to construe it did so amaze them , that all his friends ( who should have made up a great part of their forces ) as Athole and others , absenting themselves , others fainted and held off . Even Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , a man both zealously affected to the cause , and entirely loving the Actors ( Marre and Angus ) as being tied to them by bloud , alliance , and particular intimatenesse of friendship , though he were acquainted with their proceedings from time to time , and being prisoner in the Castle of Downe in Monteeth , might easily have escaped from thence , and come to them to Stirlin , yet did he avoid all medling therein , and would neither receive nor send message concerning that matter : yea , they themselves were contented that he should doe so in that generall desertion , having gained nothing by their Declaration and Remonstrance , save the publishing of their Apologie , which was not necessary to friends ( whose approbation they had already ) and wrought nothing upon others . For though the King had a copie thereof delivered into his own hand ( which they greatly desired , that thereby he might know the naked truth of things , and be truly informed of the Courtiers carriage and behaviour ) yet did it produce no effect to purpose : neither did they make any use thereof , that was known , either to informe and perswade the King of the things contained therein , or to reforme themselves . Wherefore now their whole thoughts ranne onely upon this , how to come off , their lives safe , and reserve themselves to a better and more convenient time : so incertaine is the event of all humane enterprises . The Courtiers failed not to make contrary Proclamations in the Kings name ; the bare shew whereof ( though there were but very few that favoured them or their proceedings in their heart ) was of such force , that men conveened thereupon out of all quarters . It was made in the strictest forme , commanding all that were able to beare Armes , from sixteene yeares of age to sixtie , to assemble themselves , and to bring with them provision of victuall for thirty dayes , to march whither the King should be pleased to direct them . Hereupon Fran●…is Stuart Earle of Bothwell came with his forces to Edinburgh , where the King was : but he being brother-in-law to the Earle of Angus ( having married his sister ) the Courtiers did not like of his company , and so he was commanded to returne home againe to his house . He was indeed of the Lords faction , and so were many others who obeyed the Kings proclamation , who , if they had had hearts and heads , were enow of themselves to have taken order with the Courtiers . But being dasht with feare of they knew not what ( if they had considered aright ) they looked upon one another , and so were forced to guard those men whom they could have wished to be hanged . The Town of Edinburgh were commanded to reach out 500. Musketiers , which they did , and this was the Courtiers greatest strength , yet consisting of the vulgar , and such as had no obligation to binde their fidelitie to them , and ( if they had seen the Nobilitie & Gentry go about to take them in hand ) would not have made great opposition , nor have hazarded themselves for the Courtiers safety , in all likelihood . However , Colonell William Stuart is sent with 500. men to Fawlkirke , whereupon the Lords at Stirling went to a consultation to see what were best for them to doe . They had not with them above 300. men , which were their owne proper followers ; yet being resolute , willing , forward , and active Gentlemen , it was thought fittest by some to assaile him , and to punish his boldnesse and audacitie for taking such charge upon him , being but a meane Gentleman , to invade and come against the Nobility . Disdaine , anger , and courage seemed to approve of this resolution , that so his malapertnesse might be chastised and dashed . Neither were it without good use ; for if he were once defeated , the rest would make a halt , and not be so forward : that the first successe is of great moment , and might bring matters to a parley , or such as craved audience of the King to get it : that it was no hard matter to doe , he being accompanied by such as cared not for his personall safety , and had no tye to defend him with the hazard of their owne lives especially , but would be glad to have a faire excuse , and occasion to abandon such an one , in such a quarrell : especially if he were invaded in the night , the darknesse would excuse , and take away their shame of flying . It was argued of the other side , that night conflicts were subject to hazard , errour , and mistaking , as well on their owne side , as the enemies : and that it could not be performed without bloud , and that ( perhaps ) of the most innocent , whereas he himselfe , whom they chiefly aimed at , might escape : neither would the defeat of these few bring successe to the cause , the enemies forces remaining whole and entire in Edinburgh , which would guard and defend them : besides , by so doing they should be involved in a crime , and made obnoxious to the lawes , which as yet they were free of : that it were better to suffer the guiltie to goe unpunished for a while , then to spill the bloud of the guiltlesse : and seeing they could not thereby accomplish what they had intended , their best was to retire and withdraw themselves , with as great innocencie and modestie as they could , having done hurt to no man. This advice prevailed with them , and so they concluded to march in the night season toward Fawkirke , but so soone as they were gone out of the towne of Stirling , to take the way that leadeth to Lanericke ; the which they did accordingly , leaving the Castle of Stirling in the custodie of David Hume of Argatie . Being in Lanerick , as they were refreshing themselves , and baiting their horses , word was brought them that a Troup of horsemen did approach : whereupon fearing that it was Colonell Stuart pursuing them , they took horse , and sent Archbald Douglas ( called the Constable , because he had beene Constable of the Castle of Edinburgh in the Earle of Mortons time , as hath beene shewed before ) to discover what they were . Hee finding that it was Johnstoun ( who had beene sent for to Edinburgh to assist against the Lords , and was dismist upon their retreat from Stirling ) went familiarly to him , fearing no harme , so much the rather , because Johnstoun and Angus were brothers by their mother . But Johnstoun either fearing that notice might be given to the Courtiers , and he challenged thereof , if he should let him goe ; or to get thankes , and shew his forwardnesse to their service , layes hold on him , and carries him immediately backe to Edinburgh , declaring what way he came into his hands , and what way the Lords had taken , delivering also Archbald their prisoner to be used at their pleasure , not looking for such cruelty from them as he found . For they , partly to seale the justice of their cause by bloud , partly to make the greater alienation betwixt the brothers ( Johnstoun and Angus ) that being out of hope of reconciliation , he might be necessitated to cleave to their side : they thanke him in words for this his good office , and hang Archbald . The Earle of Angus , and the rest that were with him , being resolved to goe into England , tooke their way through Tweddale toward Branxton : from thence passing through east Tiviotdale , they entred England on that hand . Calso , where the Earle Bothwell remained , wa●… not farre out of their way ; wherefore as they passed by it , it being now night , hee came forth to them secretly , and had conference with them . Thereafter , as if hee had come to pursue them , there was a counterfeit chase made , and a counterfeited fleeing for the space of a mile , till they were on English ground . The next day they came to Berwicke , where they were received , and remained a certaine space . After their departure , the King went to Stirling with his forces , where the Castle was rendred by the Keepers , who forced the Captain to yeeld it absolutely , without condition of so much as their lives safe . So hee and three more were executed by the Courtiers suggestion . Here also the Earle of Gowrie was brought from Kenniel , and arraigned of high Treason , whereof being condemned by a Jurie , hee was beheaded . Neither did the forbearance of his friends to joyne with the Lords at Stirlin ( then in England ) procure him any favour ; whereas if they had joyned with them , and so strengthened their party , they might have terrified the Enemy , and obtained better conditions for him . Hee was executed the eight and twentieth day of April 1584. The points whereof he was convicted , were the fact at Ruthven ; and the late enterprise at Stirlin . His speech was short ; hee answered to the first , That he had a remission for it : and to the second , That there was no intention there against the King : onely they had purposed to remove those wicked men who abused him , and whose thirst of bloud hee wished that his death might quench . But they cared little for his speeches , and as little for his alliance , his Countesse being a Stuart of the house of Methven , toward whom and her children they shewed no respect at all , but used them with all incompassionate rigour and crueltie . For she coming to intreat for her self and her children ( in the time of the Parliament ) and having fallen down upon her knees before the King , shee was troden under foot , and left lying in a sound . From Stirlin they returned to Edinburgh , and there kept a Parliament the two and twentieth day of May , in which the Earle of Angus and Marre , the late Earle of Gowrie , and the Master of Glames , with divers Barons , and others their associats were forfeited ; the fact of Ruthven condemned , the order of Church-government ( by Presbyteries , Synodes , and Generall Assemblies , which had been received , and publickly allowed in Scotland , all men swearing and subscribing thereto , and the oath translated into divers languages with great approbation of forraine reformed Churches , and no small commendation of the King and Countrey ) forbidden and prohibited , and termed unlawfull conventions . And in place thereof the office of Bishops ( condemned by this Church as unlawfull , as an invention of mans braine , having no warrant of the word of God ) was reared up again and erected . Also Master Robert Montgomerie ( who had been excommunicated for accepting such an office ) was now released and restored to his place . There was strait inhibiting all men from speaking against these Acts , against the Kings proceedings , Counsellours , or Courtiers under highest paines . What shall the Ministers do here ? Shall they oppose ? That were to cast themselves into certain danger , and to expose themselves to the crueltie of cruell men , armed now with a colour of law . Should they keep silence ? hear with patience that order blaspemed , which they had approven , received , sworn to , and the contrary ( which they had detested , abominated , condemned ) set up and allowed , to their no small disgrace , and shame of the Countrey ; yea , to his Majesties discredit in forraine Nations ? and suffer a doore to bee opened to those corruptions , which had been kept out of the Church , both in doctrine & manners , by vertue of that order , which onely ( in their conscience ) was agreeable with Scripture ? This their zealous hearts could not endure : let all perill be silent , where conscience and Religion speak : let no enemy breathe out his threatnings , where the minde is set on God. So it came to passe here . For while the Acts were in proclaiming at the Market-Crosse of Edinburgh , the Pastours of that Towne , Master James Lowson , Master Walter Balcanquell , Master Robert Punt , taking their lives in their hands , went boldly and made publick Protestation against that Act of the erection of Bishops , as unlawfull , in many respects , whereof they took instruments . Hereupon they being menaced , to avoide their furie , Master Walter Balcanquell flees to Berwick , together with Master James Lowson : Thither came also after them Master James Carmichael ( Minister at Hadinton ) Master John Davison , and William Aird , Ministers of the Suburbs of Edinburgh , or some Churches neare to it : also Master Patrick Galloway , and Master James Melvin , with divers others of the Ministerie . Edinburgh being thus destitute of Pastours , Master Patrick Adamson ( Archbishop of Saint Andrews ) was brought to supply their places , and to maintaine the lawfulnesse of the office the seven and twentieth day of May , being Wednesday , which was an ordinary Sermon day , but on which the Courtiers were not ordinary auditours . But that day they would needs accompany their Bishop , and grace him with the Kings personall presence . Yet the people disgraced him by their absence ; they disdained to heare a Bishop , other than a Pastour , whose office is not ordained by GOD in the Scriptures , and was ejected out of the Church of Scotland ; wherefore being grieved to see this Wolfe in their true Pastours place , they go out of the Church and leave him to preach almost alone . Besides the common people , the Kings owne Ministers Master John Craig , and John Brand , also John Herriese ( with others ) preached against it , and were therefore summoned to appeare before the Councell the five and twentieth day of August ; where they were reviled and rebuked with bitter words , as sawcie and presumptuous fellowes : and being demanded how they durst speak against the Kings Lawes , they answered boldly , that they both durst and would speak against such Lawes as were repugnant to the word of GOD. Hereupon the Earle of Arran starting up suddenly upon his feet in a great rage , fell a swearing many an oath , and with a frowning countenance said unto them , that they were too proud to speak such language to the Councell ; adding , that hee would shave their heads , paire their nailes , and cut their toes , that they might bee an example to others . Then hee warnes them to compeir before the King himself at Falkland the foure and twentieth day of September ; where they were accused againe by the Earle of Arran ( then Chancellour ) for breaking of the Kings injunctions , in not acknowledging nor obeying his Bishops . To which they answered , that Bishops were no lawfull office of the Church , having never beene instituted by Christ ; and that therefore they would not obey them ; nor no person else that would command without warrant of the word of GOD ; assuring him that GOD would humble all proud Tyrants that did lift up themselves against him : as for them , their lives were not so deare to them , but that they would bee contented to spend them in that cause . Arran arising from his seat , and sitting down on his knees , sayes to them scoffingly ; I know you are the Prophets of God , and your words must needs come to passe ; behold now you see me humbled and brought low . Well , well , ( saith Master John Craig ) mock on as you please , assure your selfe , GOD sees , and will require it at your hands , that you thus trouble his Church , unlesse you repent . Then they were remitted to the sixteenth day of November , and in the mean time Master John Craig was discharged to preach . About this time ( in November ) Master James Lowson died at London , meekly and sweetly as he had lived . Edinburgh had been all this while destitute of Pastours , and did want preaching at sometimes for the space of three weeks . This was very odious amongst the people , and now ( Master John Craig being silenced ) they were like to want oftner than they had done : to remedie this , the Archbishop of Saint Andrews was ordained to preach to them , and the Towne-Councell ordained to receive him as their ordinary Pastour . The Councell obeyed , but the people would not heare him , and when they saw him come up to the Pulpit , they arose , and went forth at the Church doores . The Ministers every where persisted to oppose that office , and by common consent appointed a Fast to be kept the foure and twentieth day of October , whereof they publickly and advowedly gave out these to be the causes : First , to stay the creeping in of Wolves ( meaning Bishops : ) Secondly , that GOD might send true Pastours : Thirdly , that he would repair the breaches and decayings of the Church ( which had been sometime the Lanterne of the world : ) Fourthly , that he might remove the causes of this decay ( tyranny , and the flatterie of Courtiers . ) This was plainer language than pleasant , they behooved to be wisely dealt with . There are two wayes to deal and work upon men : by fear and by hope : by terrifying and flattering ; they used both these toward them . Wee heard how the sixteenth day of November was appointed for their compearance : many therefore were warned against that day from divers parts . When they were conveened , they were pressed to allow of the Act concerning Bishops ; and in token of their approbation thereof , to promise and subcribe obedience to their Ordinary . To move them hereto , they partly flattered , and partly threatned them ; saying , That all was well meant , and no hurt intended to Religion : Who was so well affected to it as the King ? Who so learned among Princes ? Who so sincere ? That he would respect and reward the worthy and obedient : And by the contrary , no Stipend should be payed to him that refused ; but hee should be deprived , imprisoned , banished . When all this could not prevaile , they devise how to temper and qualifie their promise of obedience , which was conceived in these words ; You shall acknowledge and obey Bishops , according to the word of God. This seeming a restriction and limitation ( as if the meaning had been that they should allow of , and obey Bishops as far as the word of God allowed , and ordained them to be obeyed ) many took it for good Coyne , and were so perswaded of it , that some said in plaine terms , Bring a Cart full of such Papers , and we will subscribe them all . For to obey such a Bishop in such a sort ( according to the word of GOD , that is , so far as the word of God commands to obey him ) is not to obey him at all : for the word of GOD commands not any obedience at all to such a Bishop : neither doth it ordain , acknowledge , or once name such a Bishop . Thus either truly deceived , or deceiving themselves , that they might redeeme their ease by yeelding , and cover their yeelding with an equivocation , they found that it was all in vaine ; for they were not admitted nor permitted to expound it in that sort ( whatsoever their meaning was ) but were forced to accept of the exposition which the Court and the Bishops did put upon it : who understood that phrase ( according to the word of God ) not as a limitation but affirmatively , wherein it was acknowledged that the word of God did command obedience to them ; and therefore they promised obedience according to that command . Notwithstanding of all this , divers stood out , and would no wayes be moved , neither by threatnings nor by promises to give the least shew of approbation directly or indirectly , by equivocation , or any other forme whatsoever ; but spake plainly against them , and prayed publickly for the banished brethren . Of these Master Nicholas Dagleish was one ; who thereupon was accused as too bold to pray for the Kings Rebels . He answered , that they were no Rebels , but true Subjects , who had fled from tyranny , and such as sought their lives by commanding them to doe against their conscience . Hee was empannelled , put to his triall by an assise , and was cleansed , in despite and maugre the Court ; so farre there remained conscience in men . But the Courtiers will not let him escape thus dry-shod ; they labour to finde a hole in his Coat another way : they search and finde that a Letter had come from Master Walter Balcanquell to his wife , which because shee could not well read the hand , shee had given him to read to her , and he had read it . Hereupon he is again put to an assise : and they , not daring to cleanse him , yet would they not finde him guilty , but desired him to come into the Kings will. Hee was contented to submit himself to the Kings pleasure ( for so much as concerned the reading of the Letter ) and so was sent to the Tolbooth , where hee remained three weeks , and was from thence sent to Saint Andrews . And thus went Church-matters ; In the civill government there was none now but the Earle of Arran , he lacked the name of King ; but hee ruled as absolutely , and commanded more imperiously than any King , under the shadow of the Kings authority , and the pretext that all that he did was for the Kings good and safety . Hee had gotten before the keeping of the Castle of Stirlin ; he behooved also to have the Castle of Edinburgh in his power . Alexander Ereskin ( Uncle to the Earle of Marre ) was Captain of it , hee must needs favour his Nephew and his Faction : wherefore it was taken from him , and given to Arran , who was also made Provest of the Towne . Hee was Chancellour of Scotland , and having put out Pitcairne , Abbot of Dumfermling , hee made Master John Metellane Secretary . Hee did whatsoever hee pleased ; if there were no Law for it , it was all one , hee caused make a Law to serve his ends . It was observed , that his Lady said to one who alledged there was no law for doing of what shee desired to have done ; It is no matter ( said shee ) wee shall cause make an Act of Parliament for it . If any man refused to do or grant any thing hee craved , they were sure to bee tossed and vexed for it ; even the chief of the Nobility . Athole , Cassils , and the Lord Hume were committed : Athole , because hee would not divorce from his wife , and entaile his estate to him : the Earle , or Master of Cassils , because hee would not give him a great summe of Money , under the name of a Loane : the Lord Hume , because he would not give him his portion of Dirleton . Also the Lord Maxwell ( then Earle of Morton ) was quarrelled , because hee would not excambe his Baronie of Pooke , and Maxwell ( his old inheritance ) for a parcell of the Lord Hamiltons Lands , which were now his by forfeiture . Many Lands had hee taken from many , but was never satisfied , ever seeking to adde possession to possession , which was not impertinently remonstrated to him by John Barton Goldsmith , a wittie and free-spoken man. Hee had directed this Barton to make him a Seale , and to carve on it his Coat of Armes duely quartered according to his Lands and Honours . This he did pretty well to his contentment , but he left one quarter thereof blank and void . Hereof when the Earle asked the reason , he answered , That there maybe room for the Lands your Lordship shall purchase hereafter . Hee took for his Motto , Sic fuit , est , & erit : meaning that it was an ordinary thing in all ages for meane men to rise to great fortunes ; and that therefore it ought not either to bee wondred at , or to be envied . And it is true , if the meane had been vertue and not wickednesse , which ever was , is , and will be both envied and hated , as it deserveth . His ambition was such ( amongst other examples thereof ) that Queen Elizabeth must needs bee God-mother to his daughter , whose Ambassadour was present at the Christening . His crueltie ( though conspicuous many wayes ) did appear singularly in the causing execute Master Cunninghame of Drummewhasle , and Master Douglas of Maines , his sonne-in-law . This Cunninghame was an ancient Gentleman , and of an old house , who ( himself in person ) had beene a follower of the Earle of Lennox ( the Kings Grandfather ) and had done him good service when he took in the Castle of Dumbartan , and Douglas of Maines was esteemed to bee one of the properest men in the Kingdome , and was a youth of good expectation : yet both of them were hanged at the Market Crosse of Edinburgh . The pretext was a forged conspiracie to have taken the King on a certain day at hunting , and to have carried him into England . Their accuser was Robert Hamilton of Inshemachon , who was ( as hee said ) himself upon the plot , or at least ( as hee said ) had been desired to bee of it by Master Edmiston of Duntreath . Edmiston being apprehended , related ; How they had plotted to bring in the exiled Lords on horses ( forsooth ) which had their eares , their maynes , and their tails cut , themselves being disguised , &c. A tale which was so unhandsome , toyish , and ridiculous , that no man did beleeve it , but esteemed it a foolish fable ; yet did they make use of it , to practise their crueltie upon such as they feared , and to make themselves a terrour to all men . To returne to the Earle of Angus , he and his associats were removed from Berwick to New-castle , in May. So it seemed good to the State of England ( seeing no appearance of their hastie restoring to their own Countrey ) to secure the Court of Scotland , by taking that thorn out of their foot , which was too near , and too pricking at Berwick . Besides , these banished Lords were not greatly liked of by the Lord Hunsden , then Governour of Berwick : for hee entertained correspondencie with the contrary Faction ; either out of his own inclination , or being directed so to do for reasons of State , or for both ; hee so inclining , and the State of England making use of that his inclination , that by him they might understand and make use of the mysteries of the Court of Scotland , and such as guided it . But our Courtiers being rid of the fear of the Lords so near neighbourhood , did the freelier vent themselves , and discover their wayes , and by discovering , bewray their wickednesse , and disgrace themselves . As they went to New-castle , they visited by the way , Lord John Hamilton , and Claud of Paslay ( his brother ) at Widdrington , the place of their abode . There had been some variance betwixt them , but now being all involved in the same case of banishment , it was to no purpose to entertain and keep in the sparkle of discord , and therefore they were reconciled . Being come to New-castle , they stayed there a while , not so much to enterprise any thing from thence upon any ground they had laid already , as to wait for any occasion that should be offered . Here did the Earle of Angus his kindenesse and bountifull disposition toward all men plainly shew it self . For hearing that the Ministers were come to Berwick , hee caused a Letter to bee written , and sent to them , from them all in common ; and hee himselfe wrote particularly to them besides , and caused the rest of the Nobilitie to write also their private Letters , wherein many arguments were used to perswade them to come to them . Especially hee wrote very earnestly to Master James Lowson , and Master James Carmichael , not neglecting any of the rest , fitting his argument according to his acquaintance and relation , and according to the persons of the men ; pretending some such cause and necessitie of their coming , as hee thought would bee most effectuall to move them ; but the true cause which moved him to send for them , was , because hee thought they all stood in need of supply in necessaries . Besides , hee caused one that was with him , whom hee knew to bee very intimate with Master . James Lowson , to write to him for the same effect ; and to tell him , that hee longed to see him : and when Master James excused himselfe , alledging that hee behooved to stay at Berwick , because hee expected some things from Scotland , hee would not accept of his excuse , nor of the interpretation thereof , ( that hee meant of Books that were to bee sent to him ) but caused returne him answer , that hee took it ill that hee should think to lack any thing where hee was . Wherefore hee entreated him to make haste to come to him , by doing of which , hee should do him a singular pleasure . Hee dealt even so with others also , and sought pretences to put curtesies upon them . David Ereskin Abbot of Drieburgh , being an exceeding honest , modest , and shamefast man , and who had ever been readier to give , than to take from any , and Angus fearing that hee would not ( out of his bashfulnesse ) take any curtesie directly from him , found out this way to fasten it upon him . Hee pretended that hee had some Tithes of Lands in Tweddale , which belonged to his Abbacie of Drieburgh , for which hee did owe him some arrearage duties and meales , which hee would needes pay him , and under that colour gave him what he listed to take , without acquittance . The Ministers were for a long time wholly maintained by him , and he extended his liberalitie , not onely to supply their necessities , but even to furnish them with what Bookes they desired to buy . And indeed there was no man that wanted in that company , who did not taste of his bountie . At last when all was gone ( for it could not last alwayes ) hee said to one with whom hee was pleased to bee familiar , with a chearfull countenance ; Now it is gone , and fare it well , I never looked that it should have done so much good . Meaning , that being acquired by more rigorous exacting than either hee himselfe could allow of , or the common people took well , by the Earle of Morton in his Regencie ( for this was his treasure , at least that part of it which came to his hands ) hee doubted whether it should have had such a blessing as to have done so much good to so many honest men . Neither was this lavishnesse in him , or superfluous waste so to bestow it , in regard that their English allowance was spare enough , and oftentimes very slowly furnished unto them : So that having occasion to use moneyes , and not knowing from whom to borrow any , hee was forced to employ one of his followers to borrow from Master Archbald Douglas on his owne credit ( for my Lord himselfe would not be beholding to him , nor use him so familiarly ) two hundred pounds Sterling , which hee lent very courteously upon the Gentleman 's owne Bond , knowing well enough that it was for my Lords use . This was repayed to him when their allowance came in . While they remained at New-castle , Master John Colvill was sent to attend at Court about their affaires , partly because of his acquaintance there with Secretary Walsinghame and others ; partly by the advice of the Master of Glames , whose opinion and recommendation the rest did much respect . He fed them with hopes ; and upon occasion of the preparing and rigging forth the Queenes Navie , hee did insinuate by his Letters , as if there had been some intention to have sent it into Scotland for their behoof , which some did beleeve . But they could not perswade the Earle of Angus of it , he esteemed it but a dream , as it was indeed no other . When that hope was vanished , and there was no ppearance of any thing to be done of a sudden , one ( whom he was pleased to use familiarly ) seeing no great use of his remaining there , told him , that he had a desire to go to London , being loath to spend that time idlely , that there he might the better advance his private studies and exercises , as in a place more fit for bettering himselfe therein . Hee most willingly and lovingly consented to the motion , not onely to satisfie his desire herein , but having a reserved intention to imploy him in their common businesse , as occasion should serve , or at least in his own particular to his particular friends ; which purpose he concealed then , but shewed it afterward . Hee had almost over difliked Master John Colvill , and did many times in private complaine , That hee could not finde that sinceritie in him which hee wished , and which ( he said ) was seldome to bee found in any such as hee was , who had left the Function of the Ministerie , to follow the Court and worldly businesse . And for him in particular , he said , hee was a busie man , thrusting himselfe into all affairs ; and who sought onely his particular ends in doing of publick businesse , without sinceritie or uprightnesse ; which ( sayes hee ) when it is wanting , I know not what goodnesse can bee in him ; and if it bee not to bee found in the world ( as they say it is not ) I know not what can bee in the world but miserie . For mine own part , my heart cannot like of such an one , nor of such dealing . It is true , hee hath traffiqued with the States-men of England , and others think fit to use him , neither will I contest with them about it , but truly I have no delight in such men . But this was after at Norwich . For that time hee said no more , but desired him to write often to him , both concerning businesse as hee could learn , and other things , as hee should also write to him upon occasion . This was performed on both sides , after such a private and secret way , as they agreed upon before their parting . For howsoever there was nothing passed betwixt them , but what might have endured the censure of any man , yet was it not fit that every man ( into whose hands their Letters might have falne ) should know all that was written familiarly betwixt them , though the matter were never so good , sincere , and unblameable ; in regard that many are incapable of things , many not able to discerne or judge of them , many contemners and mockers , many of a different , and some of a contrary minde and judgement . If these Letters were extant , there were nothing more fit to shew the Lineaments of his minde and most inward thoughts , and to represent to the life his true disposition , without all mask of dissimulation ( from which he was ever free ) or shadow of ceremonious reservednesse , which even the best men ( for some one respect or other ) are forced to draw over their inclinations , and wrap up , and obscure their meaning in it at some times , especially in publick . Besides , they would also conduce to cleare some historicall points more fully , which neither can ones memory serve to do , nor can any other ( now alive ) supply so certainly and unsuspectedly . Now wee can but grieve for this losse . To supply which defect ( so farre as they can doe it ) wee will set downe one or two of those that were written to him , which being answers to his ( and containing so much of them , as that the summe and substance of them may bee gathered from thence ) will beare witnesse of his Noble , and Honourable disposition . The first was written in October ( one thousand five hundreth eightie and foure ) the first yeare of his banishment to Newcastle , where hee still remained as then . Please your Lordship , I Received your letter dated in September . Master James hath promised to seeke out those bookes of which your Lordship wrote to him ; and is in good hope to come by some of them , though it bee harder to finde them out then it was not long agoe . Other things I hope your Lordship is advertised of at length , by Master John Colvill . What bookes these were , and what Master James this was is quite forgotten , save that it would seeme to have beene Master James Carmichael , whom hee imployed in things of this kinde for most part . But this being onely for show ( that the paper might not seeme blanke , if it had fallen into such hands as would have opened the letter ) the maine businesse was written in such darke and unperceiveable manner , that none could reade it , but such as were acquainted with the wayes thereof . And thus it was : I have read your Lordships letter , and am very glad that my opinion did so jump with your Lordship concerning that point , whereof you wrote that you have not beene forgetfull , and that you minde to hold your ground as neare as can bee , from which you thinke that other matter to bee so farre different , and so contrary to all reason , that no man ( as you beleeve ) will propound it to you directly . That which made mee feare that it would bee propounded ( besides the speeches sounding that way ) was the end of your Lordships letter ( written before ) wherein you make mention , that some thought it necessary for your cause , that yee should enter with them into some strait , and indissolvable bond . This I tooke to bee a mean to trie your Lordships minde : First , in that generall , that afterward they might come to the particular , which would bee , that the best way to make it strait and indissolvable ; were to have it of your Lordships hand-writing . For as concerning the lawfulnes thereof , it did seem to some unlawfull ( as I wrote to your Lordship at greater length ) and I had heard also generally that there was some scruple made by your Lordship to enter into bond with them . And because ( if I be well remembred ) before your comming from Scotland , you were resolved to receive them into the societie of that common action , and to compose any particular of your owne which you had against them ; I did the rather thinke that some new occasion had occurred , which had made you nice and difficult to it now . And if I have failed in my conjecture of the cause , it is no wonder that ( not having knowledge of the particular circumstances whereof you now write ) I lighted upon that which seemed to me would breed greatest difficultie in this . If it be not so , I am contented to be deceived , & could wish that every mans minde that shall have hand in that action , were as upright as your Lordships , then we might hope that it would prosper so much the better . However , I cannot omit to put your Lordship in minde of this generall caveat , to take heed , and have a care , that whatever bond be made , it may bee perspicuous , cleare , plaine , and as particular as may bee : for the more particular it be , it is the better for your Lordship , who meaneth uprightly , and for all others that have the same meaning , and who doe desire that their upright dealing may be evident unto all men . It will also ( being such ) bee lesse obnoxious and subject to the calumnies and sinister interpretation of the adversary and enemies , who may seeke to traduce your Lordship , and make you odious thereby . It will likewise bee freest , and not lyable to the sinister glosse , and wrong interpretations of those , who shall bee bound by it , if they should ( perhaps ) hereafter seeke any evasion or subterfuge to frustrate it , and make it void through the generality or ambiguitie thereof . And by the contrary , where a bond is couched in obscure , generall , and doubtfull words , it is both more easie for them , who list to deale after that sort , to elude it by some wrested construction ; as also for such as would calumniate your Lordships intention , to finde greater colour to doe it . Concerning which purpose , I remember a distinction which the Earle of Gowry made , upon occasion of the bond which your Lordship remembers was presented to him to have signed it : It is ( said hee ) very good , and well penned , but it is too prolixe to be a Bond , and too short to bee a Proclamation , or Declaration : for a Bond ( said hee ) ought to bee short , and generall ; but a Proclamation or Declaration , would contain the particulars . I was then , and still am of a contrary minde : for I thinke a Bond should bee cleare , and speciall , and contain the causes of their binding ; and that a Manifesto or Declaration should bee conformable to it , and the very same in substance and effect , having the selfesame reasons and narration ; onely it ought to bee amplified with admonitions and exhortations , which are not proper nor pertinent for a Bond. And I beleeve no man can shew mee what inconvenience can follow upon the prolixitie of a Bond , unlesse it bee the greater pains of the Writer ; which is recompensed with this great advantage , that being drawne up at large , it needeth no other Expositour , or Pleader for it , but doth expound and justifie it selfe . And your Lordship knoweth what great necessitie and neede there is of this circumspection in this case , that the very band it selfe be an exposition and justification of it selfe , into whose hands soever it shall happen to come . For its owne interpretation of it selfe cannot be rejected , when no other will be admitted to expound it . For this purpose let them that please reade and consider the Memorials of France , of the Low-Countreyes , and of Germany in the beginning of their Reformation : they shall see that the tenour of all these bands , containes ample declarations of the causes wherefore , and the reasons moving them to joyne themselves together in that kinde of association , as also for what end they did it , so that no Declaration can bee more large . But I did declare my opinion to your Lordship in the like matter long agoe ; and I doubt not , but , if it shall please your Lordship to weigh and consider it , you shall easily finde how necessary it is ( for many respects ) that into whatsoever band you enter , it be cleare and particular . Whereas it pleases your Lordship to write , that if you can finde a fit occasion ( whereof you also have some hope ) you will cause employ me here , and withall you adde ( That none should refuse to further the businesse all they can ) I am not so ignorant , or forgetfull of my duty , as either directly or indirectly to refuse that service , or any other your Lordship shall be pleased to command mee . But I see there are divers others who seeme to be so diligent , that my paines will not be very needfull , as I doubt not but your Lordship knowes sufficiently . When it pleases them at any time , in halfe words , and darke speeches ( like parables ) obscurely to signifie ought to me of the State of businesse , they appeare and seeme to mee so deepe and profound mysteries , as I can no wayes understand or know what to make of them . Wherefore I am very well contented that I am free of them , and to be a beholder of all , leaving the managing thereof to those who know these obscure grounds better , and like better of them , then ( it may bee ) I should doe , in regard of their deepnesse . I had rather employ my time upon other thoughts farre more pleasing to mee ( where dutie rightly considered calls mee not from them ) then businesse of that nature . They are not desirous of any companion or copartner in their travels , nor am I desirous to encroach upon their labours , or the labours of any man , or to bereave him of the fruit of his paines and industry , by intruding my selfe thereupon , and to bee a sharer with him in the good successe of his endeavours , if they shall happen to bee successefull . And as little am I willing ( if there be no appearance of the prospering of it ) to take the worke out of their hands , which is ( perhaps ) marred already ; or to enter in at the broad side , upon grounds already laid by them with this State , wherewith I have not beene ( as yet ) so throughly acquainted as were needfull for one to prosecute their worke dexterously , and to purpose . However , I doe not speake this to prejudge your Lordship , or that I meane to shunne any burden you shall bee pleased to lay upon mee , and I am able to undergoe ( whatever it be ) but onely to tell my minde freely , that I had rather ( if it were in my choice ) your Lordship would employ me in any particular of your owne , which might give me occasion to visit master Secretary ( for your Lordship knows how ill I can trouble any man without an errand ) and if upon that occasion he should happen to speake of the publicke businesse , I should manage the opportunity the best I could . However , my dutifull service ever remembred to your Lordship in what I can , in this mind and disposition ( which your Lordship knows and leaving you and all to be rightly managed by that God , who certainly can , and assuredly will manage all things rightly , in whom I rejoyce alwayes to see your Lordship so depend , I rest in him , &c. The other Letter ( the onely extant of many ) was written long after from London also , but to Norwich , whither he was then come from Newcastle . It is dated the 20. of March following , in the yeare 1584. Please your Lordship , SInce the writing of my other , the Earle of Lancaster hath beene ( most part ) from Court at his owne house . On Saturday hee returned , and I attended all that day , and the next day ( till 12. of the clocke ) but in vaine . At last , when he came to Westminster , I got speech of him with great difficulty in the Councell chamber , by the meanes of one master Baptist ( one of his chiefe Gentlemen ) who professeth to love your Lordship entirely . I delivered your Lordships Letter to him , and declared the credit : it was courteously received , with many loving words concerning your Lordship : That in that , and all other things , he would doe for your Lordship what lay in his power : that his affection to your Lordship was no whit changed , but remained the same that it was of old , and that it should appeare he was no lesse carefull of you then he had beene before . I went after that to Sir P●…ilip Sidney , who so soone as he saw me , ( of his owne accord , before I spake to him ) told me , That he had not beene unmindfull of your Lordships businesse ; that he had spoken of it to Leicester , and the Secretarie , and that he would not forget it , but doe in it all that could be done . I wrote to your Lordship before , what cold hopes I had to speed herein , and the cause thereof . Now I am put in better hope by divers : That your Lordship shall be licensed to come up , and that the Ambassadour will insist against you , concerning which matter I shall shew your Lordship farther ( God willing ) at meeting . He is gone this day to Court upon occasion of Letters which hee received on Saturday at night : what they beare I have not yet learned . Onely I heare no word of any alteration or stirring in Scotland , as it was reported , save that in the generall there is an universall feare and envie at Court amongst themselves , and in the Countrey every where , of every man against his neighbour . However it bee , if I bee not mistaken , this motion ( of your Lordships comming up hither ) is occasioned by these last Letters : and yet it is said even by some of their favourers , that they thinke verily that your Lordship hath great wrong done unto you : which speeches argue but small hope to prove , yea , or to colour their pretended accusations , and that they diffide and distrust , that they shall be able to doe it . And most men thinke , that if there bee nothing wrung out of John Hume , by some one means or other ( as there is no cause to doubt of the Gentlemans honesty and constancy ) they will have no subterfuge for their false allegations , which must needs tend to your Lordships good and honour , clearing your innocency , and confuting the calumnies of your enemies . I received a letter , by Master James Melvine , and Master Walter Balcanquel , ( who arrived here on friday last ) declaring the couragious and constant death of Maines , who gave testimony of your Lordships innocency and loyall affection to his Majestie , by his last words . There was no other new matter of importance in it , being dated the 18. of February , not long after your Lordships coming from Newcastle . But I shall have no more intelligence that way ; for the Authour is forced to flee hither , having been searched for , and escaped narrowly . Hee was delated by the confession of William Jafray ( my brother Wedderburnes servant ) who being booted , confessed he had delivered him a letter from me . It is done by Manderston , to make it reflect upon my brother ; and he ( to recriminate ) hath accused his son George ; and it is thought he will be able to prove it by George Hume of Cramnicrook : John Johnston is also fled , and great summes of money offered for him : this other letter will shew what comfort I may expect from Scotland ; or he , who is now in the same case . There is sure word from France , that the Duke of Guise is in the fields with an Army of 30000. or 40000. men : some say against the King ; maniest , against Navarre , or Geneva . So ceasing to trouble your Lordship , I rest , &c. Out of these may be seen the honest and honourable dealing , together with the right and loyall disposition of the Earle of Angus , whatever hath been set abroche or intended by any other : as it is clear there have been some other motions made to him , which his heart could not incline to , nor his minde dispense with . For certainly , this feare could not arise without some great occasion ; and what it hath been , or whether it did tend , as also who are likeliest to have been Authours of it , though it may be conjectured in some sort probably , yet I will leave it to every mans consideration of the circumstances and persons who were upon this course of joyning together . For my taske being at this time to draw , ( though with a rude hand ) as I can , the true draughts of this Noblemans minde , whom I have now in hand : I could not omit this piece , whereby ( though there were no more to bee found of him ) this generall may appeare , that duetie , justice , and vertue , were the men of his counsell , and the square by which hee ruled all his actions , from which , no extremity or hard estate , could ever divert him or drive him away ; but to touc●… upon any other man , or glance at any thing which might rubbe a blot upon any , is besides my purpose , and no wayes incumbent to mee . But to returne , it fell out with them according to this last letter : for as they were removed from Berwick to Newcastle , to secure the Scottish Court ; so Newcastle being not so farre from Edinburgh , but that within twentie foure houres ( or little more ) they could have been there upon a necessary occasion , the Courtiers were put in feare by others , or faigned and imagined feares to themselves , for taking away of this ( suggested , or apprehended ) feare , as they had been removed from Newcastle to Norwich ; so now they are brought from thence to London , as was pretended , to answer to the Embassadours accusation , but indeed , to advise with him of the way , how they might be restored to their Countrey , and the Countrey rid of Arran , who was now become odious both to Court and Countrey . It is a true saying , That there is no society amongst Pirats without Justice : for if the Arch-Pirate take all to himselfe , or if hee divide not the prey equally , the rest will kill or forsake him . The Earle of Arran knew not this rule , or regarded it not : for in parting of the spoile of these Noblemen , their lands , their goods , honours , government , and places of Command , hee dealt them unequally ; drawing most to himselfe , and in Councell and guiding of the State , he was the onely figure ( or number ) and the rest were but ciphers and instruments to execute his decrees . There were then at Court ( of greatest note ) the Master of Gray , a near Kinsman to the late Earle of Gowry , and of the ancient Nobilitie , who did hate and disdain Arran , for that he had beene Authour of the death of his deare friend , seized on his lands , and did presumptuously take upon him to govern the whole Countrey alone , being but newly raised to bee noble . There was also Sir Lewis Ballandine ( of kinne likewise to Gowry ) an ancient depender on the house of Angus : and Master John Metallane ( Secretary ) who had beene indeed an enemy to the Earle of Morton , and was well contented that Arran should be imployed to work his ruine ; but he could not away with his peremptory , and absolute domineiring . These were the actours and great instruments of his fall : Gray , directly , and of purpose , the other two by conniving and being conscious to the plot , yet so as they would have seemed not to know of it , and they did rather give way to it , then worke it . They all thought it reason , that they should ( at least ) have their share of the spoil in a fit proportion ; but they could not have it any wayes proportionable to their esteem of themselves . There was besides these , Francis Earle Bothwell , who ( amongst other causes of discontentment ) was grieved at the banishment of the Earle of Angus , his Ladies brother . Alexander Lord Hume had been discarded for being thought to be his friend : Sir George Hume of Wedderburn , and Sir James of Coldenknowes were knowne and professed friends to the Earle of Angus : and Wedderburne was of kinne to the Master of Glames , and allied to the house of Marre . Robert Carre of Cesford was also of the party , what out of love to Angus , what for emulation with the house of Farnhaste , who were on the other faction . His Uncle the Provest of Linclowdan ( Douglas to his name ) was a speciall stickler in the businesse : hee was very familiar and intimate with the Secretary ( Metellane ) who without his advice did almost nothing . But above all , the Lord Maxwell ( made Earle of Morton ) entred into open hostilitie : for being charged to compeare , he disobeyed and refused ; and by intelligence with the banished Lords hee levied souldiers , slew one Captain Lammie , that was sent against him , with his companies , whom Johnston did assist . Hereupon a Proclamation was set forth in the Kings name , that all that were able to beare armes , should come and follow the King , who was to pursue him in person the 24. of October . These and many others ( and indeed the whole Countrey ) agreeing in this conclusion , that Arran was to bee removed from the helme of governement , which hee steerd so ill : the Master of Gray was sent Ambassadour into England , and had broken the businesse with the Lords concerning their returne , and his removeall . Now Sir Lewis Ballandine is sent up Ambassador with Commission to accuse them of a conspiracy , detected by Duntrethes deposition : Hereupon they are sent for from Norwich , to make answer to it . The Master of Glames being of greatest age and learning , they made choice of him to plead their cause before a certain number of the Councellours of England , deputed by the Queene to heare and judge of it . Their owne innocencie , the abilitie of the pleader , and the favour of the Judges meeting together , made them to be easily absolved , notwithstanding , that the Ambassadour did his best in framing , and pressing his accusation to the full , to discharge his Commission every way . It is a pretty sport to consider the proceedings of the world , and what masques and vizards men doe put on sometimes to cloake their designes . With what respect and reverence did they carry themselves towards my Lord Ambassadour ? and with what strangenesse and aversation did he looke upon them ? One day as the Earle of Angus was walking into the fields for his recreation , he encountered the Ambassadour coming from Tuttle-fields in a narrow lane , ere he came near , he espied him , and knowing it was he , hee called to his servants to give way to my Lord Ambassadour , and he himselfe standing aloofe with cap in hand ; made a low reverence to his Lordship as he passed by . The Ambassadour again acted his part finely , remembring his place , the person hee represented , and the errand for which he was sent ( to be his accuser ) with a countenance which did beare anger and grief in it to see the Kings rebells , hee turned away his face , and would not so much as looke on that side of the street , notwithstanding that hee both loved and honoured him in his heart , and was even then laying the ground-work of his restitution . Hee being gone home , the plot went forward in Scotland . England was no better affected toward Arran , then his owne Countrey was : they did altogether dislike of him , and suspected his wayes , they conceived that he did prosecute the Guisian plots begunne by Obignie , and which had beene interrupted by his disgrace , and discourting . And yet they acted their part also , bore faire countenance and correspondence with him , and he with them , but all was but dissimulation , and like a stage play . The Lord Hunsdon Governour of Berwick , and Warden of the Marches on that hand , paid him home in his owne coine , and entertained a shew of friendship with him , but no more . Divers meetings they had upon the borders , and many fair promises were made by Arran , to keep back England from favouring or aiding the Lords : That the King should bee at the Queens devotion , that he should follow her advice in all things , that hee should not marry without her consent , and that hee should make a league with her , offensive , and defensive . The Master of Gray , Ambassadour , had promised so much , but when the English urged the performance of it , it was a jeast to see their fine shifting . The Master of Gray put it upon Arran , Arran upon the Master of Gray , and the King professed that neither of them had warrant or direction from him to say any such thing , and therefore he was not tied to make it good : they were too sharp and quick sighted not to see through greater clouds . In the mean time it fell out at a meeting of the Wardens of the middle-marches , that Sir Francis Russell ( sonne to the Earle of Bedford ) was killed , whether by chance or of set purpose , is uncertain . This did alienate them from the Courtiers , and joyned them to the Lords , whom they knew to be honest , true , and trusty , and therefore they wished well to them , and helped forward their interprise endirectly all they could . While matters were thus in working , the Lords remained still at London , and were lodged at a place appointed to them ( called long-ditch , near Saint James Parke , whither the banished Ministers resorted , and kept continuall exercise of preaching , praying and fasting ( on occasion ) in a private manner , without ostentation or notice thereof in publicke , being done within their lodging onely . There was a motion made to the Counsell of England , that there might be a particular Church allowed , and allotted unto the Scots , as the French , Italians , and Dutch , have their Churches apart : but it was not granted , they being unwilling ( apparantly ) that being of one language , our discomformitie with their ceremonies should appeare to the common people . This grieved us greatly , and especially Master James Lowson , who partly for that , partly because of a letter written to him from the towne of Edinburgh , ( in which they did unkindly reproach his flying into England as a desertion , and did renounce him for their Pastour , calling him a Wolfe , who had fled without just cause , and had joyned himselfe with rebells , and such other calumnies , as Bishop Adamson had endited , and caused the Provest and towne Counsell signe ) he sickned and died , being much lamented , both of English , Scots , and all that knew and were acquainted with him . Notwithstanding that they could not obtain a peculiar Church , yet the Lievetenant of the Tower , being acquainted with some of our Ministers , he desired them to preach in his Church within the Tower ( which is a priviledged place , and without the jurisdiction of the Bishops ) and many of the people came thither to heare them . Amongst other exercises , Master Andrew Melvine read Lectures in Latine upon the old Testament , beginning at Genesis , which were much frequented ; and the Earle of Angus was a diligent Auditour , and a painfull repeater of them for his owne use and contentment . But now the negotiation of their returne being farre advanced , and come even to the maturitie and full ripenesse , Angus , Marre , the Master of Glames ( with a few on waiters ) take post from London , and came with all expedition to the Borders . They had composed their differences with the Lord Maxwell , and the Lord Hamilton , and so all were to joyne in the common businesse , with one heart and hand , as one man. Before Angus came from London , he wrote to his friends in Scotland after this sort : You have now knowne by M. John ( Colvill as I think ) that wee stay here only till wee receive n●…w advertisement from the Provest of Lincluden , in name of the rest of our friends that should joyne with us in that Countrey ; after the receit whereof we mean not to stay , but immediatly to come down ; wherefore be ye not unready , seeing others will be forward enough , as we beleeve . At our first coming we mean to be quiet two or three dayes , in which space I mean to speak with some principals , and by their advice to go more plainly to our purpose . This State will not seeme openly to know our designes ; but wee are to receive some help of Moneyes , for so it is promised . Sir William Russell shall also joyne with us as a male-content , having been of late ill used by that State ( in killing Sir Francis ) but not as having any command so to do . If matters go on , we minde to enter on both hands . Hamilton and Maxwell shall enter on the West-borders , Angus ●…nd Marre at the East , with such as will joyne with them there . Thus did it please him to speak of himself in the third person , howbeit it was written all with his own hand . But Sir William Russell did not joyn with them . Angus , Marre , and the Master of Glames came to Calsoe , and remained there with the Earle Bothwel two or three nights . Thither came the Lord Hume , Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , and others of their friends ; and with common consent from thence they went to Jedbrugh , where they made their coming known , and professed their intentions . Upon the report hereof , Colonell Stuart was sent against them with such forces as he could get , and came to Peebles ; but he found that he had not to doe with irresolute and lingering folks , as the Earle of Gowrie , nor with such deserted and abandoned men as had fled from Stirlin , and therefore he retired in due time , to tell tidings of the certainty of their coming . They took their journey toward Hamilton , and there joyned the Lord Hamilton and the Lord Maxwell ; and so altogether marched to Fawkirk . They caused publish Declarations every where , containing their intentions , and justifying their proceedings , which are set down word by word in the History of Scotland , written by Holinshed an English-man ; who pleaseth , may read it there . The summe is not unlike to that which was made before at Stirlin ( when they fled to England ) onely such things were added thereto , as had fallen out since then , in the time of their abode there . As namely ; First , The proceeding by cruelty under the shadow of the Kings name , whose Predecessours did commonly labour to winne the hearts of his Subjects by clemencie : Secondly , The executing , imprisoning , banishing ( by wrested Lawes ) the worthiest , most ancient , and the most faithfull ( to GOD and the King ) both Noblemen and Barons : Thirdly , Acts and Proclamations published , inhibiting Presbyteries & other exercises , priviledges and immunities allowed by Parliament , or practised and permitted by laudable custome of the Church , without which , purity of Doctrine , & the right form of Ecclesiastical discipline cannot continue : Fourthly , compelling & forcing the most learned and most religious men , and such as were of most entire life & conversation , & of most sincere conscience , to forsake their Countrey ; or inhibiting them to preach , and defrauding them of their Stipend , by violence : Fifthly , the entertaining of Jesuites , and executers of the Decrees of the cruell Councell of Trent : Sixthly , obdurate Papists having place in Session , and honest men removed , an evident proof and presage of intention to root out the true Religion : Seventhly , the thrusting of Magistrates upon Burrows ( contrary to their priviledges ) which were neither free of the Townes , nor fit to discharge the place in their persons : Eighthly , the secret practices of James Stuart , and the Colonell , to turne the love and amitie which hath been now of a long time entertained with England ( very happily ) into open hostility , having had intelligence with such persons as sought the Queen of Englands destruction : a point confessed by divers her Rebels , executed in England , and which appeared by the slaughtering of the Lord Russell , a man noble in birth , honourable by vertue , zealous in Religion , of great expectation , and a speciall friend and lover of Scottish men , notwithstanding that they had made shew of the contrary for certaine moneths , and had pretended to enter into an offensive and defensive League with her . The conclusion was , Wee command and charge in our Soveraigne Lords name ( as his born Counsellours , who are bound in dutie to be carefull of his welfare , honour and reputation , for which we have our Lands and Inheritances ) all and sundry his subjects , to further and assist this our godly enterprise , to concurre with us , and so to give testimony of their affection to the true Religion , his Majesties welfare , and publick peace and quietnesse of this Realme . It contained also certification , That such as should attempt any thing to their contrary , yea , that did not take plaine and open part with them , should bee reputed as partakers of all vice and iniquitie , as assisters of the said treasonable Conspiratours , ( James and William Stuarts ) and enemies to Religion , to his Majestie , and Authoritie , and to the publicke quietnesse of the two Realmes , and should bee used as such , in body and goods . Commanding all Justices and Magistrates , as well the Lords of the Session as others , Sheriffes , and whatsoever inferiour Judges , to administer justice , for the furtherance hereof , as they would answer upon their allegeance and highest perils : with the like certification to them also , if they failed herein . They staid at Fawlkirke that night , being the second day of November , and kept strong watch , being within five miles of the enemy . It was observed with great disdain , that the Lord Maxwel , who had the charge of the hired souldiers that were put on the watch , and so the choyce of the watch-word , gave it , Saint Andrew ; as smelling of his superstitious disposition , and which was a blemish , and contradiction ( in a manner ) to their declaration , wherein they professed to stand for the true Religion . But it was rather privately grudged at , than publickly reproved . On the morrow there came a message from the Castle of Stirlin , as from the King to the Earle Bothwell , whereby he was desired to forsake that Company , and either come to the King , or returne to his own house , which he pleased . This was a trick to divide them , and which did so work upon him , that if the Earle of Angus had not partly by reason perswaded him , and partly by his authoritie ( being a man greatly respected ) detained him , and fixed his wavering minde , he had forsaken them altogether , not without great danger to have weakned the hands and hearts of the rest , by such an untimely example . On such moments ( many times ) do even the greatest businesse depend . But God had determined to blesse that Work at that time in their hands . That rub being removed , they march forward , and about the going down of the Sunne , they shewed themselves at S. Ninians Kirk , which is scarce a full mile from Stirlin , and were seen from the Castle wall , of friends and foes . They lodged there-about as they could , till near the dawning of the day ; and then upon a secret signe given to the Companies that had dispersed themselves into the neighbour Villages for better lodging and victuall , without sound of Drumme or Trumpet , they came to their Camp and Colours . The way of assaulting the Town was laid down thus : First , one of the Commanders , with a few Companies , was directed to go and make shew , as if hee meant to enter the Town through some Orchards that lay on the West side thereof ; and at the same instant another ( with some other few Companies ) was sent to go through the Park as if they had intended to assault it on that hand , near to the Castle hill ; while in the mean time the Noble men themselves , with the grosse and body of the Army , marched on the South side , and passing the ditch a little above the Mill , going through some Gardens , entered at a certain narrow Lane , not farre from the West gate , where the way was so strait , that single men with weapons could hardly passe it . The hired souldiers which carried shot were set formost , to remove any that should offer to make head against them . They that were within the Town were equall in number to those that were to assault it without ; Noblemen , ( the Earle Marshall , and the Lord Seton ) and Barons , who were come , out of obedience to the Kings Proclamation : These had the keeping of the West gate . But the onely enemies were James , and the Colonell ( Stuarts ) together with Montrose and Crawford , in respect of some particular quarrels . For Montrose had been Chancellour of the Assise , by which the Earle of Morton was condemned , and was esteemed to have been a bad instrument therein : And Crawford had killed the Lord Glames , the Masters brother , whereupon deadly feude , and divers murders had ensued on both sides . The rest , though they did not openly assist the invaders , yet did they wish them no hurt , nor make any resistance against them . There were in the Castle , the Master of Gray , and Sir Lewis Ballandine , who were suspected by James Stuart , and not without cause . He knew also that Master John Metellane bare him no great good will. These hee intended to have rid himself of , and to have slaughtered , but they were too strong to do it without great hazard ; and besides , it had been but little wisedome to have gone about that , wherein if hee had failed , it would have been his overthrow , and though hee had prevailed , it would not have freed him from his enemies without . All he did was , that the Colonell with some shot , was set in the Street near the West-Gate of the town , which was the place likeliest to be assaulted , James Stuart himself stayed about the Bridge , having the Keyes of that Gate in his pocket , making that back-doore sure for his last refuge to escape by it . The Earle of Montrose was placed at the foot of the Castle hill , to make good the entrie through the Park . The event was , that having entred the Town through a narrow Lane , they were welcomed and entertained by the Colonell with some shot in the street , but seeing that they were resolute , and more in number than he was able to deal with , he retired to the Castle . In this entrie there was but one onely ( of the Lords side ) killed , and it is uncertaine whether it were done by the Enemie , or by one of his fellowes , who were so unskilfull in handling their Muskets , that their Captain said , That who had known them as well as hee did , would not willingly have marched before them . The Earle Marshall and the Lord Seton , seeing the Colonell so quickly quit the Field , stood still at the Gate , invading no man , and no man invading them . The Earles of Montrose and Crawford , hearing the tumult of the Towne taken , on the other hand , forsook their station , and were received into the Castle . James Stuart fled by the posterne on the Bridge , and having locked the Gate behinde him , he threw the Keyes into the River . The Colonell in his retreat was followed so near by Master James Halden ( brother Germane to John Halden of Gleneagles ) that he overtook him , and was laying hand on him , but in the mean time was shot by Josua Henderson ( a servant of the Colonels ) and so died presently . He was a young Gentleman , much lamented of all that knew him , being lately come out of France , where ( as also in Italy ) he had lived divers years , with great approbation of all his Countrey-men , being greatly beloved for his sweet courteous disposition . If it were lawfull here to bewaile a particular losse , I have just cause to loose the reins of my private affection , and pay that tribute of sorrow and teares which I owe to the memorie of so faithfull , upright , and trusty a friend . For the present it shall suffise to say thus much ( and let it remaine as a poore witnesse of some small gratefull remembrance , as long as this piece can remaine ) that before him I found not any , and since have known but very few so hearty and sincere friends , as he was to me from our childe-hood for many yeares . Having thus without any further losse or hurt made themselves Masters of the Town , all rejoyced at their successe , and with chearfull minds and countenances welcomed them , and congratulated their returne . One thing was like to have bred some stirre and tumult , but that the parties interressed knowing the Lords own noble disposition , and how these things could not be helped , bore patiently the losse they received , for the joy they had of the publick good . This it was ; when the Nobles and Gentlemen alighted to enter the Town on foot , they gave their horses to their footmen to be held without till they had made all cleare within . While they were busied in assaulting and rambarring , Colonell Stuart ; the Annandale men ( and others also by their example ) who came with the Lord Maxwell , seized on their horses , and went cleare away with them , having spared no man friend or foe , of their own , or the adverse partie . It was no time to follow them , and though it had , yet could they not doe it , their horses being gone . That day they lodged in the Towne , and kept watch and ward about the Castle , that none might go forth , or come in without their knowledge . Robert Hamilton of Inchmachan , who had falsly accused Master Douglas of Maines , and Master Cunninghame of Drummiewhasle caused himself to be let downe over the Castle wall ( at the back-side thereof ) in a basket , thinking so to escape ; but he was perceived , followed , and slaine ( in the Park ) by Johnston of Westerhall , receiving that just reward of his betraying innocent bloud . The Lord Hamilton himself when he heard of it , said he had gotten but what hee had deserved . The Castle not being provided of Victuals , and no man ( almost ) caring to defend it , it could not hold out : wherefore messengers being sent to and fro betwixt the King and them , all things were agreed on ; and so the fourth of November the Gates were set open , and the Companies entering , the Noblemen presented themselves before the King in all humble and submisse manner , and did by their carriage and behaviour really confute the calumnies of their enemies , who had accused them of traiterous intentions and practices . When they came , they used not many words ; onely , They were his true and loyall Subjects , ready to serve him with their bloud ; and that they were come to declare themselves , and to cleare them from those calumnies which wicked and seditious men that sought their own particulars , had filled his Majesties eares and minde with , and so made him to be suspicious of them without cause . The King answered lovingly ; That it was true , and that he now saw that hee had been too long abused . That it was certainly the mighty hand of GOD working with their good affection that had brought them so through without shedding of bloud . And so embracing them heartily , he welcomed them with a chearfull countenance ; desiring that they would forgive and spare the Earles of Montrose and Crawford , who were afraid to lose their lives and estates , being conscious of their own deservings . This request divers of the Earle of Angus his friends would have had him to have denied ; but he , by a rare moderation , and to shew how far he regarded the desires of his Prince , being willing also that the whole work should be free , not onely of innocent blood , but even from particular ( though just ) revenge , neither could nor would refuse it . This was the Catastrophe of this Tragick-comedie , acceptable and joyfull to all ( except these few particular men ) and harmefull to none , which did justifie their ( unjustly condemned ) former meeting at the same Towne of Stirlin , which if it had had the same successe , had produced the same effect , as it had the same aime and end . It justified also those of the Ministery who had fled to England , and those at home who approved and favoured them , that in so doing , they did not favour Traitors , or ●…raiterous enterprises . This the Earle of Angus ( above all ) did observe , and did often remember this consequent of the successe , with no lesse contentment than the successe it self , esteeming it a greater mercie and favour from GOD to have thus cleared their innocencie and loyaltie , than that he was restored to his own home and inheritance . And therefore he did often call to minde , and mention that speech of the Kings , That it was the very hand of GOD which had prospered their enterprise , and given them that successe without bloud . For though it may seem no hard matter , in respect of the generall favour of the Countrey , yet if we consider what a desperate enemie , loath to quit such places as they have enjoyed , is wont to doe , it will seem strange that they should without once striking a stroke thus be gone without more ado . But as it hath been found in broyles ( and I have particularly observed ) that GOD hath preserved their hands from bloud , whose hearts did abhorre from the shedding of it , even upon such occasions as men thought they could hardly avoid , either to be frustrate of their intentions , or to obtain them with much bloud ; where by the contrary , many whose feet have been swifter , & their hearts lesse carefull of it , have on very small occasions fallen into it . So in this publick businesse , it pleased GOD to look on the hearts of the actours , and according to the innocencie thereof , to dispose of the means of their restoring , that their hands were kept pure from the bloud of any . He observed also of the Town of Edinburgh , how it had pleased GOD to cut short their aid and assistance , which they might have given the enemy by laying of it waste and desolate through the death of 20000. persons of the plague ( which had raged there ) whereby the rest were so terrified , that they were glad to forsake the City . For the Courtiers did most repose and rely upon them , who were readiest upon the sudden , and who ( upon the least advertisement ) were wont to come at their beck , without any disputing , or questioning the lawfulnesse of the quarrell or justice of the cause , but took every thing as from the King , whatsoever was commanded in his name , as they had given proof before , when they conveened at Stirlin ; having been the first that were sent against them , when they were forced to flee into England . This plague began immediatly after their flight , and the departure of their Ministers , and increased daily with such terrour and fearfulnesse in the hearts of men , that every man did interpret it to be the immediate hand of GOD , striking them for their obsequiousenesse to the Court , and contempt of their Ministers ; and now they being returned it diminished daily , so evidently , that after their entry into Stirlin , it ceased , not by degrees or piece-meale , but in an instant ( as it were ) so that never any after that hour was known to have been infected , nor any of such as were infected before , to have died . The Lane also , in Stirlin , by which they entred ; was wholly infected , yet no man was known to have been tainted with it , or to have received any hurt . Nay , the men of Annandale did rob and ransack the pest-lodges which were in the field about Stirlin , and carried away the clothes of the infected , but were never known to have been touched therewith themselves , or any others that got , or wore the clothes . They also that were in the Lodges , returned to their houses , and conversed with their Neighbours in the Town , who received them without fear , suspicion , or reproof , and no harm did ensue upon it . As for Edinburgh , before the first of February ( within three moneths ) it was so well peopled and filled again with inhabitants , as none could perceive by the number that any had died out of it . As if GOD from Heaven should have said , Lo , the cause of my wrath , lo , the cause of my mercie , with the going and coming of his servants : a rare and remarkable work never to be forgotten , as he did never forget it . And for my part , I think it merits to bee recorded here , and that it is worthy that the remembrance thereof should remain to all posterity , so far as my weaknesse can preserve it , that men may see and learn to fear and seek that GOD who worketh so great things , and none can hinder him . A notable wonder , and next unto that overthrow of the Spanish Armado in 88. both in my time , both immediatly by the hand of GOD : But this , so much the more evidently , as that there , some ordinary industrie and help of man did intervene ; here , nothing can be alledged to have brought it to passe , but the very finger of GOD. Let mankinde advert and admire it . And whosoever shall go about to bereave GOD of his glory by laying it over upon chance or fortune , may his chance be such as his blindnesse or perversenesse deserveth . Things being brought thus about , who would have been so modest , as not to have been so farre ambitious , as in distributing the offices of the Kingdome , to have taken to himself , or bestowed on his friends some place of honour or profit ? But Angus did neither take to himself , or procure any for his particular friends and followers . Let ambition be silent , and let her plumes fall , when she seeth her self truly contemned by him . He contented himself with that onely which was his own ; yea , he even dispensed and forbore that which was his own ; modestly tolerating , that the Lands , House and Lordship of Dalkeeth , should still be retained by the young Duke of Lennox , upon the Kings promise to be restored thereto , so soon as any occasion should fall out of providing some other Lands to the Duke ; which was not done , till the Lord Methven dying without heires male , the Lands falling to the King , he gave them to Lennox , and restored Dalkeeth to Angus . Out of the like modesty & will , to gratifie his Prince in whatsoever he could to the very uttermost of his power ; at the Parliament ( held in Edinburgh 1587. ) about two years after , he dispensed with his priviledge of bearing the Crown at the Kings request , and suffered the Duke to carry it , with protestation ( and promise ) that it should not be prejudiciall to him nor his house in time coming , and so ( with all meeknesse ) submitted himself to take the second place , and carry the Scepter . In this last point , it was thought wisedome to yeeld , so to disappoint those , who were thought to have put the King upon it , of purpose to have made a breach betwixt the King and him by his refusall . The former was not effected without the bribing of those Courtiers who did then possesse the Kings eare . Secretary Metellane got his Lands of Die-Water to work it ; which when he would have holden of the King by renunciation , Angus refused to renounce , and would onely give them , holding of himself , not without some indignation on both sides . It was hardlier constructed , that he suffered a decreet given in favours of Farnihaste to his prejudice , to be reserved , and stand good in his restitution . And thus did he behave himself in his private affairs . As for the publick affairs of the Kingdom , hee suffered them to bee managed by the Master of Glames , to whom the rest of their society were most inclined , for the opinion they had of his wisedome , greater experience and age ; as also for that now he was a prime officer of State ( Treasurer ) and allied with the Lord Hamilton ; rather than hee would enter into any contest , which might breed any division amongst themselves , being set altogether on peace and calmnesse , howbeit he did not approve of all their proceedings , and differed much in judgement from them , concerning the administration and handling of matters . So in the policie of the Church , though out of a sincere minde and true zeal , hee favoured and affected the right form as much as any , and was much grieved , that such order was not taken in it , as should have been , & was expected ; yet he did tolerate that course which the rest thought good to suffer to go on . For this they gave out , That the King inclined to the government of Bishops , and therefore it was not convenient to crosse his inclination abruptly and directly , lest he should seem to be constrained or thralled in his actions ( a point which they avoided carefully ) and not used with that respect and liberty , which is due to a Prince : yet they said they should labour to work him to it with time , taking their opportunity as it should be offered unto them . And so indeed it was brought to passe ; for Bishops were first restrained of their using their pretended jurisdiction , and by fact ( de facto ) even then brought under obedience to Synodes and Presbyteries , and in the year 1592. the former discipline was re-established by Act of Parliament , and all authority directly taken from Bishops . But neither in the former Parliament ( holden at Linlithgow in December 1585. ) neither in the next ( holden at Edinburgh the 29. of July 1587. ) was there any mention made thereof . This gave occasion of much discontentment to the best affected , and bitter contention betwixt the Court and the Ministery ; they reprooving this toleration of that unlawfull office , and the King committing them for their freedome of reproof . So no man of any judgement and good disposition was satisfied with their proceedings . Notwithstanding , there was none of any degree , but had a good opinion , and thought well of the Earle of Angus , and excused his part of it , laying the blame thereof upon the rest , who ( they thought ) were more carefull of their own particular , than mindefull or solicitous for the state of GODS Church . And when I call to minde the disposition of men in those times , I cannot expresse it otherwayes than thus ; That they accused all , but excused him ; and yet they so excused him , that they did also accuse him ; not for his want of good-will , but for want of action . They were perswaded of the sincerity of his heart but they thought him defective in action according to their opinion , and would have had him to have taken more upon him than he did . Concerning which purpose I have thought it best not so much to deliver my own judgement , or use my own words in excusing or accusing what might be thought worthy to be excused or accused in him ( for what is mine may be more obnoxious to mens censure ) as to set down every point according to the judgement , and in the words of others , who were present eye-witnesses and special actours in those times : what they thought worthy to be reprehended , and what they required to have amended , which wil comprehend whatever negligence or omission any man can lay to his charge : for as touching any fault of Commission , and doing what he ought not to have done , there was no man complained of him . To which effect , diverse letters might bee produced , which were written to himselfe by diverse persons of all sorts , Civill and Ecclesiasticall , Scottish and English , of the Ministery , which had beene banished with him , and of the brethren of the Church of England : but I have made choice of one for all , which containeth the summe of all , both Church and State businesse , both private and publicke , and that in the Authours owne words most faithfully , neither adding nor impairing any thing . To which wee shall subjoyne his owne answer , in his owne words ( so farre as our memory can serve ) at least his owne estimation , and judgement of every point ; his ends , grounds and reasons of his actions , which hee delivered in his most inward , and private conference , where it pleased him to open himselfe , as hee was accustomed , freely , and even to the laying naked of his very heart and soule . The letter was ( after the wonted formalities ) thus , HAving occasion of this bearer , I thought good to remember some things , especially that you would ( as you know I intended to have done ) purchase in name of the Countrey , some to bee sent to keepe Justice Courts , in our Countrey and Teviotdale , otherwayes all will breake . Also let the sitting of the Session bee hasted , that such things as flow from their restitution may bee decided , otherwayes some men may bee greatly prejudiced and disappointed . As for Master John , it is hard for my Lord to helpe you both ( I am still of that opinion ) wherefore if no place fall about the King , let it not displease his Lordship that one of you seeke some other course . After my departing from Linlithgow , I continued in great anger , whereof I am not yet fully freed , because of that sentence ( or decreet ) reserved to Farnihaste against the Earle of Angus : and though the doers bee partiall , yet I blame most his owne simplicitie ( I must needes so call it ) seeing his authoritie ought to put order to others , where now hee is onely a beholder of that which it pleaseth others to doe . But hee must either take matters otherwayes upon himselfe , or undoe himselfe , and all the rest with him . For if the Master of Glames , forgetting the event of Ruthven businesse , will needs trace the steps of the Earle of Gowrie , it is not for the rest of the fellowship to be slothfull to their owne hinderance . They are indeed at Court , but are esteemed no better ( abroad ) then beasts in the Countrey , never like to acquire the favour of any ; but continually declining out of the hearts of many of their well affected friends , who all speake , as though they saw already an evident ruine of them : and that ( doubtl●…sly ) deserved , for lying in their good cause , and not vindicating Israel from Aram. Remember whence they are fallen , and return , or we shall bee forced to lament for that which wee shall never bee able to amend . If they sticke to their cause , all is sure ; otherwise nothing sure : for either their suretie is by the Kings favour ( whereof I speake nothing ) or the favour of the people : this they must have by pressing their cause ; of Noblemen , for relieving them from bondage , and revenging their bloud ; of Gentlemen and Commons , for purging Religion , restoring of Justice , and providing that Tyrannie thrust not it selfe in againe . If this bee urged , it will confirme such as are already in the cause , and will make more to joyne in it : So shall the cause prosper ; and if occasion crave so , there is a partie ever ready to take Armes for it . But if , omitting this , a flattering , or a fearefull course bee taken , who shall speake plaine , and assist such fearefull dissemblers ? who shall credit them , when afterwards ( as heretofore ) they shall take on the name of the good cause ? I wish the Kings Majestie may bee used with all Princely reverence , but not flatteringly fostered in tyranny to his owne undoing , though I seeme to see even now that these flatterers shall be worthily wracked . I aske them whether they had a just cause in hand or not ? ( and yet of all these evils , under the burden whereof the Countrey groned , they have opened nothing at all to his Majestie ) why is it not then justified in deed by condemning the other worthy to bee condemned ? Is their cause already ended ? And if not , why is it then left off ? hath it not enemies ? why should it not then bee fortified against them ? The Declaration of their cause , why was it published ? To acquire favour at the hands of the people ? And why then is there nothing done to retaine this favour ? yea rather , why are such things done , as procure their disfavour , and hatred ? I see nothing , but as men have dissemblingly pretended a good cause with uncleansed hearts , God ( to discover their hypocrisie ) hath given them their hearts desire , but for their further ruine for their Hypocrisie . I cannot forbeare to write this , though I bee out of hope of any good , yet I suppose that such as have meant uprightly , shall ( in Gods favour ) bee provided for ( though with trouble ) when God shall require of those dissemblers the bloud of such as have perished , and shall perish through their default , giving them a proofe of their owne wits , and their unfaithfull hearts : They would not serve God , hee made men their masters . Are means failed him ? No : the last shall bee worse then the first . It seemeth to mee that God hath even prepared a mischief for them ; and therefore given them over to their owne devices , wherewith they are so drunke , and blinded , as men in a melancholicke apprehension , who are past all cure of Physicke . But this , above all , troubles mee most , that till such time as good men bee all undone , and the Land utterly ruined , and overborne with Tyrannie , it shall not bee resisted hereafter . For a new Generation must arise ( that hath forgotten these things ) before that any who shall pretend a common cause get credit : good men are so often deceived under that colour and pretext , and drawne on to their wracke . And certainely , rather then I were hee , that ( through mis-governance and evill order ) should undoe so many as are like to bee undone at this time , I had farre rather give my owne life for it . But I speake to deafe men , and therefore I cease , committing to God the providing for those , whose hearts hee sees to bee upright , having from time to time kept nothing backe of that which I knew would make for the surety of these men , and the cause , without troubling them with any particulars . If Angus could steere in his owne roome , hee might redresse the Masters errours : Speake to Dunniepace and Largoe : See what is done about the Barons , and give me notice of such direction as goeth to their Shires . I say , for conclusion , their earnest suite in particulars , and negligence in the common cause , convicts them before all men , and the King may justly say , They had no good meaning . But if it were mine to doe , wee should goe all together to the King , and say , this or the like speech . Sir , in that yee have ( as may be ) redressed our particulars , wee thanke you heartily , though it was ever the least part of our desire ; for Gods Church hath beene heavily oppressed ( then tell him the particulars apart ) Your Realme and Subjects have beene tyrannized over : ( then tell him also some proofes ) Let therefore the Gospell bee restored to the owne libertie , and some men chosen to set downe some sure policy which may last and continue . Let some also bee deputed to heare the plaints and grievances of such as have beene wronged , under the colour of your Majesties name , and let their wrongs bee redressed as much as is possible ; and such order taken , that the Subjects may bee out of feare heareafter of suffering , so they keepe the Lawes . Let the Lawes also bee revised by wise men , and such of them taken away as bee hurtfull to the Subjects ( for you shall finde the like Ordinance touching Acts of Parliament of olde . ) This being done , wee doubt not , but God shall blesse you , and your Countrey ; seeing , the neglecting hereof , hath beene the cause of the evills past . Sir , doe it your selfe , for the gaine is yours , though wee put you in minde of it . Now except this bee done , there can bee no continuing quietnesse . Post script . THeir foolish proceedings make all men to stand aloofe . I heare the Lord Boyd is secretly in this Countrey of Scotland , but seeth not that in them which hee could wish . Let the Master behave himselfe as hee pleaseth , can the King but thinke that hee would rather wish his owne sister sonne King ? I finde great fault that the Abbots ( Driebrough and Cambuskenneth ) Lie abake , who are practitioners and partakers , as Marre at Ruthven : let them joyne together and bee knowne . This letter being received , and a fit opportunitie espied ; it was brought to my Lord , and without further ceremony ; I have received here a letter ( saith hee ) from whom , and from whence your Lordship may see . It is written to mee indeed , but not for my sake , ( for hee knowes my minde ) but that I might so informe your Lordship concerning your estate , and the state of the publicke cause which you have embraced ; and you might know what the thoughts of honest men are concerning it , what they thinke , what they expect , what they wish and require . I thinke it best that it speake for it selfe in its owne language , let it be your Lordships pleasure to reade it . He tooke it and read it , and after a little pause ; This ( saith he ) that is here in the beginning of this letter may be obtained , this Commission for Justice Courts , and this for our securitie we shall and must needs bee carefull of . There is next that which concerneth your selfe ; wherein I am sorry that occasion hath not served me to expresse in effect the good will I bore you , as I thinke I ought to doe . And while he was about to goe on in that purpose , the other interrupting him , made answer : Let it be your Lordships pleasure to breake off that discourse : I never doubted ( nor never will doe ) of your Lordships minde , which is enough to satisfie me ; you know my ambition . I am content to doe any thing , I am content to doe nothing : hope did not bring me to this cause ; frustrating , nor feare cannot divert me . If I can serve to any good use , I am glad of it : if I cannot , yet am I contented : it is enough to me that I have been willing , and gone as farre as God hath called me : hee knoweth how farre hee will imploy any , and your Lordship is my best witnesse , that I never did thrust my selfe into your Lordships publicke or private businesse . So farre as you were pleased of your owne accord to communicate with me , so farre I knew and meddled . I know what men thinke , but this shall ever be my wisedome , or my folly ( let who list account it so ) yet if I were even aspiringly difposed , how can your Lordship doe for your friends , at his Majesties hands , who doth your owne affaires with him by the mediation of strangers ? But ( seeing we are fallen upon this purpose ) let it not displease your Lordship that Master John retire himselfe ( as you see it is desired here ) I will ( by Gods grace ) runne such hazard and fortune as may befall me , by being your Lordships onely ; to which my minde , my liking , and the honour I have to be your Lordships Kinseman , and will to honour and doe what good office I can to your Lordship , do carry me ; and if so I can serve your Lordship to any good use in any thing you have to doe , it is all I crave : for the present let me bee bold to aske your Lordships minde and disposition concerning this letter , what you thinke rightly admonished , and what you intend about the prosecution or amending of every point in it ? Before we come to this ( said my Lord ) let mee demand a question of you first , and heare your judgement in a point which hath greatly perplexed me : you remember the sermon preached at Linlithgow , by Master Craig , what thinke you of it ? I remember you told me you did not fully like it : but I would heare you againe more particularly to refresh my memory , because it is greatly incident to this purpose , and seems to cut short all our actions . For if the case of all Subjects towards their Princes be such , what can we doe but depend on their pleasure ? The other ( smiling a little ) indeed my Lord ( as it is in our Proverbe ) It is time to aske the question ! for if you must depend on their pleasure , why did you not expect it ? and stay in England till you were recalled ? why came you unsent for ? and that in such a manner ? what is become of your Proclamations ? and of all the faire reasons of it ? you must goe backe again , and recant all , and cry peccavie for these things . Oh , ( saith my Lord ) that is another question , for what we did in that , was done of necessitie for our lives and estates , and to remove that violent tyrannous man , who else would have undone King , Countrey , and all : But now that he is removed , and that necessitie taken away , it is another case ; how to deale with our Prince , to whom we owe such obedience , he being amongst Kings , Who are in the place of God , who are called Gods , and to whom is due the obedience to God. But leaving the particular , let me heare you of the generall , What you thinke of that Sermon , and of his grounds ? I know there are others also , that were not satisfied with it , but I would heare you . Having paused a little , he answered : Loath am I my Lord , to enter upon that taske of censuring any man , chiefly a Preacher : I like better to dispute a point and discusse a truth , without touching upon any mans person , so farre as it can be avoyded . But seeing your Lordship drawes me to it : I confesse , wee all disclaime implicite faith , and thinke wee are reasonable creatures , apt to weigh and consider mens reasons , and yeeld assent to their opinions so farre as they enforce , neither ought wee otherwayes to consent , nor can any reasonable man enforce himselfe to assent , which makes me , in matter of consenting ( chiefly in Religion ) to dislike of constraint : For I judge of others as I finde my selfe ; the world cannot force mee , nay , I cannot force my selfe to thinke otherwayes , then my judgement alloweth of . But to your question , I am more favourable to Princes , then many beleeve , and to Monarches : I account it a great and heavie charge , and burden , which hath need of great reliefe , and many comforts to recompense the pains thereof , and can permit much to a good Prince , yea , as much as he himselfe pleaseth ; which will never bee more then is good and just , though it were all the estates of his Subjects , and the whole Countrey to be guided by himselfe alone , with as absolute power as any ever spake of , and yet not thinke that hee had an haires bredth of more power to doe hurt . But to the question we are on ; your Lordship remembers the ground that Master Craig did lay ? yes ( saith he ) very well : It was that passage of the 82. Psalme ( God sits in the assembly of the Gods ) And what he built thereon ? He built ( said he ) obedience to Kings commandments and impunitie without controulement ; your Lordship remembers right , and reports the best of his speech in the fairest termes [ Obedience to Kings , Impunitie to Kings ] whereas hee said roundly , [ Obedience to Tyrants , Impunitie to Tyrants ] which two who confounds , doth great wrong to good Kings . But whether wee call them Tyrants , or Kings , which that Psalme speakes of , Who so inferres these conclusions from thence , doth it without warrant from the text , the drift of which is clean contrary ; not to extoll or lift them up , but to abate their pride , and to humble them ; not to secure them , but to terrifie them ; not to exempt them from death ( the lot of other men ) but to let them know that they are subject to it as well as others , and to threaten them therewith . Wherefore let men build up Power and impunitie to Tyrants upon what other place of Scripture they please , I dare affirme that this place is most unfit for it . For here there is never a word of [ Obedience ] never a word of [ Impunitie ] but by the contrary of [ punishment . ] Oh , ! but it saith [ I have said ye are Gods : ] True , but it saith also [ Neverthelesse , you shall die ] which two being put together , the one shewes them their duety , [ Do justice as God doth ] the other threatneth punishment [ Ye shall die if ye do it not . ] But they will say , that this threatning is from God , and therefore God ( indeed ) may and will punish , but man may not . I answer , the Text makes no mention whether God will punish them immediately , or by the hand of man : but however that be , the scope of the Psalmist is to humble them , and hee who from thence doth gather any Prerogative or impunitie to them , gathers that which is contrary to the Text. Now to come to the particulars of the Sermon : To what use was it at that time to preach [ Obedience ] to Tyrants ? was it not sufficient to have preached [ Obedience ] to good Kings ? And to have showne his Majesty to be a good King ( if he thought that any man doubted of that point ) which was more honourable for his Majestie , more beseeming a Preacher , more easie to perswade , then to roote out the inveterate opinion of the lawfulnes to resist Tyrants ? Concerning his Arguments : 1. Was the first solid ? [ God sitteth in the assembly of Gods ] therfore Tyrants sit in the seat of God : though it were true , yet it followeth not : and it is even like to this , The King sits in the Assembly of the Lords , therefore the Lords sit in the Kings seat . As on the contrary , The King ( being present ) doth sit in his owne seat , and the Lords do rather sit in his seat when he is absent , then when he sits in the Assembly amongst them . Also ( as I have said ) the presence of God is there mentioned : not to authorize , but to controll them . Neither doth the Text inferre , [ Therefore obey them ] there is no word of that there , but [ Therefore they shall die ] Because God sits and sees them , eyes them , and perceives the wrong they doe , and how they abuse their power , which is a contrary illation to his , and farre more consonant to the Text. 2. His second Argument was [ The people of God are commanded to obey Nabuchodonozor , who was a Tyrant , therefore all Tyrants should be obeyed . ] How hard an inference ! Of a particular extraordinary , to gather a generall ordinary rule ! If wee allow of this kinde of arguing , it will bee replied : God commanded Jehu ( a private man ) to slay Achab ( a Tyrant ) therefore private men ought , or may slay Tyrants . 3. His third [ David did not slay Saul , therefore no man should lay hands on a Tyrant ] how loose is it ? from example or authoritie , negative . 4. But the fourth [ God placed the Tyrant in that place , therefore no man may put him out of it , though his Tyranny bee never so great ] what doe you thinke of it ? A mans goods are taken from him by a briggand , who doubts but God hath given them into the briggands hands ? But doth it therefore follow , that no man ( not the Magistrate ) may take them from him againe , because God hath put them into his hands ? yea , who knowes but God hath cast them into his hands for that end , that they may bee taken out of his hands , and hee punished for it ? Besides , this inconvenient will also follow hereon : if an usurper shall once get himselfe place in a Kingdome , no man ( by this reasoning ) may ever dispossesse him again , to repossesse the lawfull King ; because ( without all doubt ) God hath placed him there . This were a maxime very prejudiciall to lawfull and rightfull Kings . 5 The fifth was a Simile ] which all men know are ever lame , and doe halt some way ; yea those which he used , are brought by others to prove the contrary . 1. For even Children are sometimes made free from their Parents by the civill law Romane . 2. And Servants from their Masters , by Gods Law given to the Jewes ; as , If his eye bee beaten out , let him goe for his eye . 3. Wives are divorced , and freed from their husbands , if the essentiall knot and tie of matrimonie bee violated , and broken : why then may not the tie we have to Tyrants be taken away ? If the Essentiall cause of obedience ( the image of God ) justice ) be violated , and cast off by the Tyrant , why may not the obligation of obedience cease ? And this for his Arguments , which you see how frivolous and weak they are . As for his conclusion [ Men may not put hand in Tyrants ] it can never be deduced from his text : There is only one word , which seemes to make for him [ I said ye are gods ] but the next words say plainly [ Neverthelesse ye shall die , ] whereby it is clear , that this appellation of ( gods ) is not given them to free them from punishment , but to put them in minde of their duty ; which when they neglect , they lose the name , and are lyable to the punishment . So that ( according to his owne forme of reasoning ) if it follow from hence , that because God hath placed them in that place to doe justice , therefore men should not take them out of it , though they prove Tyrants ; it will follow farre better ; God appoints them to die , because they doe not justice , therefore they must die , therefore men may make them die , when they become Tyrants in stead of being gods . Which kind of reasoning if he think not to be good , then must he quit his own reason , and leave this passage , as neither making for him , nor against him ; neither exempting them from punishment ( in calling them gods , which showes but what they ought to be of dutie ) nor yet giving expresse command for men to slay them , in this other word ( ye shall die ) which showes onely what God will doe in his justice . He alledged ( as others also doe in this cause ) that the thing which moved him to broach this conclusion , was , because that if a liberty to kill , or disobey Tyrants be granted unto men , then good Kings shall not be obeyed , nor sure of their owne lives , because seditious or ambitious men ( of which there are enow ) will call a good King a Tyrant . But your Lordship may consider the futilitie of that pretext ; for by the same reason all lawes are taken away , and all punishment of vice and wickednesse . For where the law ordaines theeves to be punished , an unjust Judge may call an honest man a theefe ; and if we allow blasphemie to be punished , a Jezabel will finde meanes to cause Naboth be accounted a blasphemer ; and if we suffer sedition to be punished , Tyrants will call a good Patriot , a seditious fellow ; free admonitions , treason ; and any word of liberty , rebellion . Shall therefore sedition be unpunished ? shall theft ? shall blasphemie ? And certainly there is more danger , and it comes oftner to passe , that a Tyrant should call an honest man seditious , then it is found that subjects call a good King a Tyrant . The people suffer much ( what by custome , what through a naturall inclination and love toward their Princes ) and beare with many great faults , and seldome come to rise up against him , but when the injury is intolerable . And you shall finde ( when you please to trie it ) that they have comported more and oftner with wicked Princes , then ever they have made insurrection against good ones ; nay , then they have made against the wicked , unlesse their wickednesse hath beene extreme enormous and pernicious . Yea , I doubt whether any can finde an example of insurrection against any that was good , nay , against any tolerably wicked : whereas of the other side , many honest men have beene opprest , and put to death by Tyrants upon small or no occasion , upon a forged accusation , lie , or calumnie . Wherefore it is a foolish and ridiculous pretext , to maintaine Obedience , and the Impunitie of Tyrants , that so good Kings may be obeyed , and secured : as if a man should plead for impunitie to harlots , that so honest matrons may be secured . All is but folly , for there is but one way to secure honest women , which is to avoyd whorish fashions ; to secure honest and true men , to take heed they be not found breaking or digging through of houses . And let a good King beware and carefully avoid all tyrannicall actions . So ( and onely so ) shall he be sure ( if word and worke justifie him ) and free from all feare of punishment from God or man. And thus much concerning your Lordships question , what my opinion is of that Sermon . But seeing we are fallen upon this subject , let me tell your Lordship how men , while they labour to put a good face upon this matter , wavering betwixt flatterie of Princes , and truth of reason received , and allowed by the common consent of all men against Tyrants , involve and intangle themselves into many difficulties and absurdities . I will bring one instance for all , and that is Bodinus ( a Frenchman ) in his booke De republica : faine would he make even Tyrants to be sacred and inviolable , and perswade that all obedience is due , and ought to be given them . And he concludes , that they are not to be touched by their subjects , but obeyed ; whereof he gives this for his chiefe reason , Because their subjects have no jurisdiction over them : yet finding how hard it were to free them from all feare of punishment , he puts them into the hands of forraine Kings , and exhorts them to exterminate and root them out , commending it as a laudable action , by the imitation of Hercules , who travelled through the world ( sayes he ) to destroy these Monsters , Tyrants . Now let any man judge what good reason can be given for denying that power to the Countrey it selfe ( under the pretext , because they have no jurisdiction ) and to give it to a forrainer , who hath neither interest nor jurisdiction over another Prince . And whether is there more danger in the sedition of his Countrey people , then in the ambition of a stranger Prince ? And which of them is likeliest to picke a quarrell against him , and to call him a Tyrant , and seeke occasion to worke their owne particular ends ? Besides , what shall be the part of the people in this case ? Shall they fight against this forrainer , who comes to cut off their Tyrant ? Who then shall come to relieve those from tyrannie , that will take armes for defence of the Tyrant ? Shall they joyne with him ? Certainly in all reason they ought to joyne with him , seeing it is for their sakes that he under-takes the warre . But that is Rebellion ( if wee beleeve Bodinus . ) Shall they be neutrall , and spectators ? Even that is disobedience . And yet the same Bodinus sayes , That Tyrants are monsters ; now there is no societie ( farre lesse bond of obedience and subjection ) with monsters . Yea , hee sayes , That there is no societie with Pirats , because they break the Lawes of humane societie ; and Tyrants break them much more . This same man in his Daemonomania sayes , A King may become a Wolfe ; and that a great King in Christendome was one when hee pleased . I ask him then , Whether such a King should bee obeyed , when hee is a Wolfe ? And if hee should ever continue to bee such , without returning to bee a man , whether or not must hee bee ever obeyed in all things ? Shall his sacred Majestie bee reverenced ? And ( lest hee should starve ) shall hee bee fed with childrens flesh ( perhaps ) because hee will eat no other , or ( at least ) because hee likes that best ? Certainly , his reason will inferre no lesse than that hee should . And if hee bee ashamed to affirme this , and will confesse that it is lawfull to put such an one from his Kingdome , who hath put off humane nature , and can now no more guide a Kingdome : what shall wee think of one , who ( though retaining the shape of a man ) hath a wolvish nature and disposition , being cruell , wicked , licentious , and over-throwes all right and equitie ? And is not a Tyrant ( for the like rea●…on ) as worthie to bee deprived of that Kingdome , which hee cannot , or will not guide rightly , but destroyes and makes havock of all ? Certainly , the reason is all one : for it is not the shape ( so much ) of a Wolfe that men abhorre , as the wolvish and ravenous nature and disposition . For suppose a good King were ( contrary to his will ) transformed by Magicall incantation onely , into the shape of a Wolfe , who did retaine his reason , his speech , his wisedome , justice , equitie , meeknesse , and all good Government , omitting nothing that belonged to a good Prince , men would not so much abhorre , as pity him , and expect till some way were found how hee might recover his former shape , and would ( doubtlesse ) preferre his humane nature , though in the shape of a Wolfe , to a wolvish nature , though under the shape of a man ; it being farre more tolerable , and farre more advantageous for the Common-wealth , whereof the good and safetie is ever to bee respected and preferred in all things . And thus much for Bodinus . But will your Lordship bee pleased to hear what that great Doctour of the Lawes ( a professed Patron of Princes , in his book which hee wrote of purpose for their defence ) I mean Blackwood sayes concerning this question ? It is ( sayes hee ) an absurd thing to affirm , That a Princes commandement should or may be dis-obeyed . Yet if a Prince command any thing that is unjust , it must not be obeyed . But how shall we do then ? Even this , sayes hee , when the commandement is unjust , we must suppose that the commandement is not the Kings commandement : but either that it is , first , some fained and forged thing under his name ; secondly , or stoln from him at unawares ; thirdly , or that being busied some other way , he did not take heed to it : Fourthly , or that he hath been ill informed : Fifthly , or mis-taken it : Sixthly , or that hee is mis-led and mis-carried with some passion or prejudice . So in the point of controlling Princes , he cannot endure that the Sacred Majestie , Gods Vice-gerent , should be constrained or forced any way ; that is absurd and abominable : Yet if he mis-governe the Countrey , so that the state of the Common-weale bee in danger , the blame must bee laid on his evill Counsellours ; those they may lay hands on , and take order with them ; nay , hang them , if they please , and place good men about him , whose better advice he may follow . But by no meanes must they touch or meddle with himself in person . This opinion is such , that ( I beleeve ) hee against whom he writes , hath not written any thing that may seeme more hard . For if we may call his commandements ( when they are unjust ) stolne , and so dis-obey them ; wee are not bound to obey his unjust commandements . And if wee may take order with his counsellours , who will be his counsellour ? Or who will execute his unjust will ? Nay , how can subjects do either of these two without a manifest controlling and forcing of him , Since hee will oppose and interpret all as done against himselfe , and call it Treason and Rebellion against him ? So that in effect , all comes to one . Besides , this way leaves that ground ( which men so carefully pretend to avoyd ) which is , to call all his commandements stolne ( though they bee never so clearly his ) and albeit they bee never so good ; as also of calling his Counsellours evill , though they bee not so . Whereby hee makes them Judges both of his Commandements and Counsellours ; so that they may call it in question whether they bee good or not ; which doth brangle , and ( indeed ) over-turne all that absolute power which he gave them before . I will not omit here to tell your Lordship of another distinction that some use against unlawfull commandements : They grant that we should not give them Active Obedience , that is , that we should not do the thing commanded , but that we must yeeld Passive obedience , that is , Suffer what punishment the Prince shall be pleased to lay upon us for our refusing to do what he commands , whether it be a pecuniarie mulct , imprisonment , or death it self . But if this be rightly weighed in the balance of reason , if the commandement be unlawfull , the punishment inflicted for refusing to obey it , is also unlawfull , and the commanding of us to under go that punishment , is likewise unlawfull . Therefore there is no necessitie of obedience to that command , according to Blackwoods rule ; for it is not the Kings ; it is stolne . Therefore if a Tyrant command a thing unlawfull , under the pain of paying a summe of money , a man is no more bound to pay the money , than hee is to obey the commandement ; for both are unlawfull . Farre lesse is he bound to submit himself to a corporall punishment , or to lay down his life , or to enter into prison , which takes away his libertie , as dear to him as his life , and doth oftentimes endanger both his life and goods by consequence . If ( I say ) he can get these things avoided , he is not bound in conscience to under-go them , but may lawfully with-draw himself from them , and shun them . What hee is to do when he cannot eschue these things , is not a case of duty , but of prudencie : for that same question will come to bee considered , when a man hath to do with a Robber ( to whom he owes no obligation of obedience ) if hee bee not able to resist him , how farre hee shall yeeld to him . Let us put the case then , That a Tyrant would ( for our dis-obeying of his unlawfull commands ) invade us his subjects by Armes , wee are not so bound to him , but wee may avoide the blow ; nay , the subject ( in this case ) may warde the blow , and put by his Princes Weapon , he may hold his hands ( if it be necessary ) and if hee cannot otherwayes save himself . And what will these that stand for Passive Obedience answer to those that suppose this case : That the Prince and his subjects were in a ship , and the Prince should command a leake to be made in the ship , by which the water might come in , and drown both them and himself ? They will ( perhaps ) say , that they would not do it , although he should command it . But would they give him a Passive Obedience ? Would they suffer him to kill them for their refusall ? Would they give him leave and way to do it ? Or would they set aside such ceremonie , and stay him from it calmely ? Put the Augre or Wimble out of the way , or keep it from him ? Hold his hands ; or ( if there were need ) even binde him rather ? so to save themselves and him . Which if it be right and lawfull to do for preserving a private ship , what shall be said of the Bark of the Common-wealth ( I pray you ) if a Tyrant do such things , which will cast it into danger of drowning and shipwrack ? Now the ground of all this ; First , ( That tyrants must bee obeyed ; Secondly , that they must not be controlled , nor resisted , but get ever a Passive Obedience ; Thirdly , that they must no wayes bee deprived , and farre lesse touched in their persons ) is in this ( forsooth ) That they are Gods which name ( as they alledge ) inferres all these , Obedience , not resistance , not depriving , &c. ; And indeed ( to bee God ) carries more with it ; it imports both Active and Passive Obedience to whatsoever he commands without exception , to kill his sonne with Abraham ; for each man to kill his brother , as the Levites did . But how farre these ( called ) Gods , come short of that priviledge ( notwithstanding of the name ) I have said before : and therefore this appellation will not import any of the rest by any necessary consequence , no more than it doth absolute Active Obedience . Neither are Princes there compared to GOD , because of equall soveraignity or obedience due to them , but because of the likenesse of the action , and to warne them to imitate him in justice . And to draw an argument from a Comparison of things , to prove an equality in them , in that wherein they are not matched or compared , is against the law of Similies , or Comparisons . Secondly , those who dispute in this sort , speak onely of absolute Monarchs ( as they call them ) but the name of [ Gods ] is not onely given to absolute Monarchs . It is given to the Judges of Israel before they had Kings : & the Turks use ( at this day ) when they go to law , this phrase , Let us go to God : by which they mean , not their absolute Monarch , the Emperour , but any inferiour Judge , even the lowest and meanest , as ( no question ) even a Sheriffes depute , or a Barons Bailiffe sit in the place of God , when they sit to do justice betwixt parties ; yet no man for that doth attribute absolute power to them . Behold the ground of your Lordships cause , and of this so worthy an action done by you , to your perpetuall honour , of rare memory and example in any age : lo what you have been ; not contemplating and disputing in the Schooles , but practising in the Common-wealth . For if it be not lawfull to disobey the command of Princes ( even of lawfull and borne Princes ) in any case , then is this that you have done , very unlawfull . If it be a wrong to controll their wills , then must this your fact be condemned as wrong . If it bee not lawfull to remove from them wicked Counsellours and instruments of iniquitie , then is this your act altogether unjust , enormous , unlawfull and treacherous . But the world acknowledges , all men assent , and the Prince himselfe confesses , that you have happily atchieved a worthie worke , in freeing your King from the jawes of these wolves and lions , who devoured the Realme , and polluted his name and fame ; that you have restored him to his honour , and that high expectation of him to his Countrey , and to the Church of God throughout the whole world . There rests onely this exception and doubt in mens mindes , whether or not this hath been your aime ( in very deed ) and the true scope and end of your enterprise ; or if this bee but incident and adventitious to your own particular designes . For it is sure , your particular was joyned with it ; but that is no fault : yea , I account him happy , whose lot joynes his estate with an honest cause , so that they must stand or fall together ; or whose minde and resolution casts him upon it . But it is of great weight , and makes a great difference , when the cause is our end , and ( our particular but accessorie , or contrarily ) when our particular is the maine motive , and the common cause but a by end , and embraced only to advance our particular . Your Proclamation ( or Declaration ) which ye published , speaks much of the publick cause and common-weale ; but you may perceive what men think ( how your actions and doings since do not answer thereto ) by this Letter . For they are begun to think , that howsoever you pretended the publick , yet your intention was fixed onely on your own particular ; because you have done nothing for the Church or Countrey , and hath settled your own particular . And it is observed , That of all the Parliaments that were ever held in this Countrey , this last ( held since you came home ) is it , in which alone there is no mention of the Church , either in the beginning thereof ( as in all others there is ) or elsewhere throughout . This neglect of the state of the Church and Countrey , as it is a blemish of your fact , obscuring the beauty and lustre of it ; so is it accounted an errour in policie and civill prudencie , by so doing , to divide and separate your particular from the common cause of the Church and Countrey ; which as it hath been the meane of your particular restitution , so is it the onely meane to maintain you in this estate , and to make it sure and firme . Hee having thus spoken , the Earle of Angus answered . I know that question stands yet undecided betwixt those that stand for Tyrants , and those that are against them , and is disputed by Lawyers on both sides ; as what is not disputed and called in question by them ? I see also there hath been continuall practice of both wayes ; and the practice hath been allowed or dis-allowed according to the successe ; The Nobility calling it Tyranny and mis-government , and the Prince calling the controlling of him , Sedition , Rebellion , Treason . But if Doctor Blackwood say that which you say , hee touches the point very right , and the fashion of our Countrey , whose ordinary custome hath ever been such , to take order with wicked Counsellours , carrying all respect to the Prince , and as much reverence as ever any Nation did . Yet that beginning with the Counsellours drew many at last by necessity to betake themselves directly to their Prince himself , when hee would needs espouse their quarrell , and either to protect and maintaine them , or to revenge them . So that if Blackwood say that it is lawfull to punish wicked Counsellours , he must confesse also , that it is lawfull to controll Kings . Neither is hee aware that in so saying , hee makes the Nobility ( or Estates ) Judges to discern whether the Counsellours bee wicked or not ; and whether their proceedings bee for the good of the Countrey , which he will alledge they are ; and that both themselves are good servants , and their service good and profitable to him and the Countrey ; and these actions which they do , and the counsell which they give , that they do them as his servants , and by his direction , as Counsellours advising and propounding things , not prescribing or enjoyning ; and therefore what is done against them , is not done against them , but against him ; and that they are not wicked , but good and faithfull men . Now the case standing thus , to whomsoever he allowes the power to put order to them as wicked , hee allowes them also power to cognosce of them as wicked , to judge of them as wicked ; and that contrary to the judgement of their Prince who will never judge them such . And indeed , unlesse it be so , when wicked men shall winde themselves in about a Prince , and abuse his name , or pervert his minde , How shall the Prince be preserved ? How shall the Countrey , the State , Religion , Lawes , Order , and particular mens estates be saved from ruine ? As hath been profitably and necessarily practised ( divers times before ) in this Kingdome ; and of late by us upon a flat necessity for his own good , and the good of the Countrey . And for my own part ( I will answer for one , and can answer but for one ) his good did as much move me to that course , as any private interest of my own : and I still shall as much regard it ( by GODS grace ) so long as this weak life is in my body . I know not how long that will be , and who lives longest , lives but a short time ; and I account not that hee lives , who lives onely to live this life , or to enjoy any thing that is in it . This Lesson I have learned substantially ( so my GOD hath schooled me ) and I speak it to you seriously , knowing to whom I speak . Neither shall ever any endeavour of mine have any particular for the last end of it . That all is not so well done and so clearly to the satisfaction of the Ministery , and all honestly affected , it grieves me as much as any , and I am not ignorant that these inconvenients follow thereupon , That we undergo the slander of respecting our particular , Of carelesnesse of the Church and Countrey ; as though all our speeches and Proclamations tending that way , had been but pretexts , and that if ever any such businesse should fall out again , our credit will not be so great . Yet ( not for these causes , but for the well doing it self ) my desire is , That every thing be rightly done , because it is right so to doe . But what can I help it ? I am but one of the society , neither can I perswade my associats to do otherwayes , nor am I able to compell them , nor were it fit I should , it not being the Law of a society to doe so ; but to do all with commune consent , and to obtaine what may bee obtained by a fair way , but to go no further . Otherwayes it would quickly dissolve into divers factions amongst our selves , and make some of us joyne with others to the overthrow of us all : which if ever it come to passe , it shall never be through any occasion from me . Men think ( I know ) that my place is a principall one , yet it is but the place of one ; neither is it so principall , but that there is as principall as it , equall to it , or ( perhaps ) beyond it , in respect of proxinitie to the Kingdome , if it should fall out so , which GOD forbid it should . For no King ( you know ) can ever bee so neare to mee , and therefore there is none whom I should or will affect so much . And this is it that carries it away from me , and gives them no little advantage : The Lord Hamilton being next the Crowne , is guided by the Master of Glames : and the Master delights to bee deep in his counsels , and pleaseth himself in this form of managing affaires , which you see is now used . I have many times told him ( and others also ) my opinion , but cannot bring them to it . If I should take a course to crosse and force them , How dangerous were it ? Yea , what concurrence or assistance should I have ? Or , of whose friendship could I assure my self ? Maxwell , you know what his respects are : and what Religion he is of . I can never forget the Watch-word he gave at Fawkirk , whereby he did plainly professe his disposition to superstition , Saint Andrew was it . And who knowes what intention he hath to retain the title of the Earle of Morton . As for your Chief ( the Lord Hume ) dare we think better of him ? My brother-in-law ( the Earle Bothwell ) how uncertain is hee ? What ado had I to retaine him at Fawkirk ? And what trouble have I still to keep him in good order ? There is onely one , of whose stedfastnesse and friendship I dare assure my self , as much as of my self , who is loving , faithfull and constant , and that is the Earle of Marre : yet hee hath been so tossed with troubles already , that he is loath to intangle himself a new , if it can be avoided any way . And why should not I be as loath to put him to any hazard , or to occasion any trouble to him , contrary to his disposition ? GOD forbid , but that I should bee as carefull of him as hee is of himself . And concerning their proceedings ; as I do not approve them altogether , so dare I not condemne them altogether . Wee have to doe with our Prince ; what should we not doe to gain him by all faire and Gentle meanes ? Wee ought not to crosse or thrall his will , but to draw it easily to a better temper ; and not so much oppose him , as by complying with his inclination a little , to winde him from that ill way and course hee hath beene set upon . He desires to bee at liberty , and to bee knowne to bee so , and it approves and justifies our proceedings to have it so , and testifies to him and to the world , our love and obedience , and what our mindes have been from the beginning toward him . Hee promiseth not to withdraw himself from us , to joyne with others ; our trusting of his promise will deserve that hee should continue with us , and will gaine his affection , which is a surer bond than a guard placed about him ; which would entertaine mutuall suspition , and move him to seek meanes of freeing himself from us : and hardly could any guard bee so kept , but that one set to escape , might finde a way for it ; not to speak of the charges that were required to entertaine it . Neither need wee to feare much , though hee had a minde to forsake us ; for wee know who would or could bee our partie , and what forces they have . That there are some suffered to remaine about him , who are no good friends to us , nay , who have been evill instruments against us , proceeds from the same ground : for it is done , that himself and others may see his liberty , and what confidence wee have in him . That the state of the Ministery is not brought to that point which we wish : wee cannot get it done suddenly , except wee will plainly and directly enforce his will : and how many would agree or concurre to that ? But wee hope to work it with his owne consent in time : for the Ministery insist in their right , and he commits them ; and wee intercede and mitigate his anger so farre , that it proceeds onely to a short and easie confinement or imprisoning . In the mean time , they have leasure to informe him , and hee of himself will be wearied with such continuall opposition ; and will give way to settle such a course as they desire ; and so it will be better and more durable , than if it should now bee extorted from him by any show of compulsion . These bee the grounds , upon which such as think themselves very wise amongst us , build their work ; which though it be not so framed , as to give every man present satisfaction ( who knowes not what their way is ? or if they knew , allowes not of it ? ) yet when they shall finde the effects thereof , they will think better of them . Neither are they afraid to want the assistance of such as are honestly affected , in case wee should bee assaulted by any ; for they cannot betake themselves to any other , having none else from whom they can look for any good in the least measure : nay , who is there besides , that hath not a very bad meaning ? And wee , though wee doe not all the good they would ; yet are wee doing somewhat , and keep off much evill ; and therefore they will rather take part with us , than suffer all to go to wrack . You may happly think that you have much to say against this : but ( as I said before ) though I approve not all , yet I do not condemne all ; so I say now , though I report all , yet I doe not approve of all ; and doe confesse that wee should doe much more , and it were better if wee could agree to it , and bee all of one minde . Yet this is the wisedome of our deepest and profoundest Politicians , whom I am resolved not to crosse nor presse any more , but to take my hazard amongst the rest ; and I doe hope , GOD will provide for me as well as for them , and that my part shall bee as well known every way to honest men . And therefore we will have no more objections nor reasoning at this time . Well , my Lord ( said the other ) it shall bee so then ; wee shall reason no more of this Subject . Indeed your Lordships part is best interpreted , save that they think that your authority should be of greater moment ( as you may see by this Letter ) and that you should rather go before all , than follow any . This one thing give me leave to remember concerning the King ; Hee is the most apparent instrument that is in Europe ( and so in the world ) of whom wee can expect greatest good and comfort to the Church of GOD ; as being the onely King that hath been bred in the purity and sincerity of Religigion , and therefore of great expectation ; and because of this expectation , greatly favoured and beloved of all true Professours of Religion every where : He is of a great spirit , ingine , wit , judgement , and learning . Great pity therefore it were , that such an one should be lost , either through corruption creeping into his own minde , or by the poysonable suggestions of others . You doe therefore exceeding well to cherish him calmly , and to entreat him gently , and deale with him in an humble and submisse manner ; which is the way to tame and gaine even wilde-beasts that are without reason ; farre more is it like to prevaile with reasonable men ; and most of all with Princes , who in respect of the height of their place , are not to be violently thralled or enforced , which were the way to spoyle them : as they write of Alexanders horse Bucephalus , whom Philips riders could not manage or over-master by force of bit or bridle , but Alexander by stroking and making much of him , made him manageable . And if ever you intend any worthy or great enterprise in this Countrey or in Europe , behold the mean , use it wisely , and the LORD of Heaven give successe . But this ( I hope ) may be suggested to your consideration , that you would weigh with your selves , and see whether or not this obsequiousnesse ( so to term it ) be the onely mean to be used toward him , smoothing all , and allowing all ; never mentioning the abuses that have been , and yet are in this Countrey ; or if it be not fit also to remonstrate freely ( though reverently ) what hath been , or ( perhaps ) yet is amisse in Religion and the common-wealth , in some such forme as is set down here in the end of this Letter . And whether it bee fit or tolerable for the gaining of him to a right course that such men as have no good meaning , have his eare , and bee his most intimate and inward Councellours . Now I feare mee greatly that the meane by which they have perverted all , and which may be still used to pervert all , and whereby they have gained most upon his tender age , is the eye he hath to our neighbour Kingdome of England , upon which his minde is greatly set , and to which ( no question ) he hath the right of succession ; yet hath he need of assistance to obtaine the possession thereof . And they perswade him ( as hee may also thinke of himselfe ) that this cannot be done without helpe from the Papists in England , France , Spaine , Italie , and from Rome it selfe ; and that the way to make them to be for him , is to put them in hope of him , by ( perhaps ) a present toleration , countenancing , cherishing , and advancing of their Religion . And this ( he may thinke ) cannot stand with the puritie of Discipline , and Government of our Church , which may make him the more averse , and hardly affected toward it , and thinke it fit to curbe it , and so the more to encline to Episcopacie ; by which as he shall more please the Statesmen of England , so shall he be able the more to restraine our Preachers , and their freedome of speech , and the more freely deale and trafficke with Papists , and so make use of all sorts of people , because he may thinke all sorts necessary for his ends , whereas ( indeed ) none of these are of great consequence . For Papists that are without the Countrey ( as France or Spaine ) will never in their hearts wish him to be King of England . France for his nearnesse to them will not desire that he be so great , in respect of his claime to their owne Countrey , and because so the league with Scotland will fall , and they shall want the assistance of the Scots against that title . Spaine pretends a title themselves , which the Papists in England will rather set forward then hinder . Such Papists as are within the Island are of small force , and almost of none yet in Scotland , and not so many in England as to counterpoise the Protestants . Bishops there stand by the State , not the State by them ; men of meane birth , no great riches , lesse following , attendance , or friendship ; easie to be framed to what course he pleaseth , their life-time being reserved , or without condition . Those that seek Reformation are the strength of that Countrey , and certainly the wisest in it , of greatest power by the peoples favour , and credit in Parliament , and every where . Your Lordship hath seene the lettter directed to you all from some of them , containing their judgement , not to be contemned : gaine these , gaine that Countrey . This ( as it is the truth ) would be imprinted in his minde by such persons and meanes as are fit , and others removed , who perswade him otherwise , and his Majestie made to know , that by blending and mingling of Religions , or by professing , or seeming to favour and incline to a contrary Religion , hee cannot attaine to that Kingdome . That hee is happy in this , that the professing and advancing of the true Religion is most profitable for his honour , and prosperous estate in the world , and the best meane to preserve his owne , and to attaine another Kingdome . Neither doth hee stand in need of any bastard , or spurious policie , or farre sought , profane , or wicked course ; a plaine and sincere uprightnesse , in maintaining justice , pietie and religion in this his present Kingdome , will serve his turne ; and the more seriously , fully , and exactly that he observe and follow this way , it will increase his credit and reputation so much the more there , and facilitate his designes . And this is that which will most throughly joyne him to your Lordship , as the opinion of the contrarie is the most effectuall meane that ever they can use to dis-joyne him from you . From the same ground it arises to be considered , whether it be fit to suffer his Majestie and the Ministerie to bee at such variance , they finding fault with him , and he committing and confining them ; and if it be not to be feared that it beget in him a loathing of them , and in them and the Countrey a wearinesse of him : And whether ( therefore ) it were not better to interpose your credit to informe him freely and truly , then thus to looke through your fingers ( as wee speake ) and behold things , and onely now and then procure some little reliefe to them ; which forme of dealing rather fosters the rancour , then remedies it , seeing the King gets not the thanks of it himselfe . Certainely if I were a Politician , an ill affected Statesman , and had a desire to make way for another intrant , I would take this course to incense him , and irritate him against the Ministerie , that hee might commit them ; or at least feed and foster his disposition herein , that so hee might bee brought to loathe them , and to bee loathed of them , and so take away that great expectation men had of his Religion , and their love to him for it : I would separate and divide him from such , and such from him ; then bring him to a neutralitie in Religion ; then to countenance men of contrary Religion ; then stirre suspicions on each side ; then alienation would follow ; and what not ? But as I am , out of my poore affection toward his Majestie , I doe wish that these occasions were taken away . I wish ( I say ) that your Lordship see to it , as you would have things right , and out of that minde you spake of , which was , that you have the honour to bee nearer in kinne to him , then to any King that can come after him ; howbeit your Lordship is in the same degree of kindred with the next apparent , my Lord Hammiltouns children . But you desire no change , I know , and that it may continue in the present race , as I am perswaded that Hammiltoun himselfe hath no other minde : yet the matter is worthy your Lordships consideration , so much the more , as ye have had experience how farre evill company about him hath had power alreadie to make things goe on . I leave it , and rest , as having no part or particular save onely to wish well , and to follow , as your Lordship goes before , In the meane time I have also here a note ( of a sheet of paper or two ) concerning the abuses in the Church and Common-wealth , sent to me by master James Melvin , to be ( I know ) imparted to your Lordship : you may lay it by you , and reade it when you have leasure , for your remembrance . This hee tooke ; and having read a little of it , with a deepe sigh , ( which expressed the inward passion of his heart ) God knowes my part ( sayes hee ) I shall neglect nothing that is possible for mee to doe ; and would to God the King knew my heart , how I am affected to his welfare , and would give eare to mee . But , &c. Many times was hee most earnestly dealt with to take more upon him , to frequent the Court more , and to make his residence at it ; especially by Sir Lewis Ballandine . His pretext was the common cause , and the good of it ; but it proceeded from a particular betwixt him and master John Metellane , then Secretarie , who had crossed him in some suite hee had concerning Orkney , and drawne the halfe of it to his owne use . For which cause hee endeavoured to employ the same Gentleman to have perswaded my Lord to that purpose : but he knowing both my Lords inabilitie of body , and aversenesse of minde , told him sincerely and plainly which way my Lord was inclined ; and that his disposition was not to be drawn by any man farther then he thought fit , out of his owne discourse of reason . And for his owne part , hee was to follow his Lordship , and not to goe before him , or prescribe him what he should doe . Sir Lewis grieved very much hereat , having beene familiar with him of old , and complained to his friends , that the Earle of Angus was too slow , and that he had one with him that was as slow as himselfe . Not long after , the infirmitie of his body increasing , and his strength and health decreasing , he was seldome able to come to Court , and could not stay long at it when he did come . I finde ( in a note of those times ) that at the Parliament holden in Edinburgh 1587. ( in June ) there was some dispute betwixt the Earle of Angus , and Master of Glames . But I remember no such thing , neither doe I know how there could bee any publicke dissention ( either in this , or any other thing ) howbeit they differed in judgement concerning the guiding of State affaires , yet I see not how that could come to any publicke contention . His associates propounded to him to accept the Office of Chancellour , which had beene vacant ever since the removing of James Stuart . This hee did familiarly impart to the former Gentleman , and asked his opinion therein . Hee answered plainly , That it was indeed the most fit place for him , as being the most honourable Office in the Kingdome , by which he might doe most good offices to his Countrey , in Councell , Session , and elsewhere ; and that by that occasion it brought great dependance , and many followers : That it had beene before in the hands of his Predecessours , as of Earle Archbald the first ( called Bell the Cat ) and of late in the Earle of Mortons , before he was Regent . Hee answered , that it required skill in the lawes , and more learning then hee had . It was replied , that ( in very deed ) much learning was not absolutely necessary ; that it was not knowne what learning Archbald the first had , and it is not likely that hee had much . But it was well knowne that the Earle of Morton had very little , or none at all to speake of , not so much in the Latine tongue as he himselfe had ; and yet hee had discharged the Office with credit . A naturall judgement to conceive and resume the question , and the reasons of each side , is more needfull in a Chancellour then learning , his part being properly to doe that , whereas the decision seldome hangs upon his vote . Or if it come to that , learning does not alwayes the turne , knowledge of the customes of the Countrey is more requisite , and is onely required in Councell . As for the Session businesse , the President does commonly supply the Chancellours roome . Besides , seeing that ordinarily the question is not ended at the first hearing , what is difficult may be advised , and tossed by whom your Lordship pleaseth , before the next hearing . And although you finde not that full sufficiencie for the present , which you could wish , yet time and custome will bring experience , and experience beget knowledge . And this is said to have beene observed of the Earle of Morton , that having beene rude enough at first , he became afterward very skilfull , and as able and sufficient as any man in the Kingdome : and therefore your Lordship needs not to distrust or diffide your selfe in the like case . Well ( saies my Lord ) I know not what dexteritie either of them hath had : and as for the Earle of Morton , though he wanted letters , yet hee was of a singular judgement , and rare wisedome , scarce to be matched by any in this age . But for my owne part ( as I yet thinke ) neither am I able for the present to discharge it , neither doe I thinke it fit to enter into an Office before I have learned what belongs to it ; neither can I digest to doe it by others , seeing I ought to doe it my selfe : yet I shall advise . The conclusion was , he rejected it , and thereupon it was given to Secretarie Metellane , to his associates great griefe , he having ever been a man of a contrary , faction and disposition in all businesse of the Common weale . Hee accepted of the Office of Lieutenant on the Borders willingly , being more sutable to his disposition , and his proper element , as we speake ; and he professed that he delighted as much to hunt out a theefe , as others did to hunt a hare ; and that it was as naturall to him , as any other pastime or exercise is to another man. But he lived not long after this , nor had he time to doe any memorable thing in it . He made onely one roade against the outlawed theeves of the name of Arme-strang ( most of them ) after the King was gone home , who had beene present at the casting downe of their houses . Hee pursued them into the Tarrasse Mosse , which was one of their greatest strengths , and whither no hoast or companies had ever beene known to have followed them before ; and in which they did confide much , because of the straightnesse of the ground . He used great diligence , and sufficient industry ; but the successe was not answerable either to his desire , or other mens expectation . Neither did hee forget to keepe his intention close , and secret , acquainting none of the people of that Countrey therewithall , untill he was ready to march . Then directing one Jordan of Aplegirth to goe to the other side , whither hee knew they behooved to slee , hee sent with him one of his especiall followers , whom hee knew to bee well affected to the service , to see that hee did his dutie . Hee himselfe with the Armie came openly and directly to the place of their aboade , that they fleeing from him , might fall into the hands of Aplegirth , and his companie , who were come in sufficient good time , before the Army could bee seene to that passage which they were sent to keep . But the birds were all flowne , and there was nothing left but the empty nest , having ( no question ) had some inkling and intelligence hereof ; but it could not be tried by whom the notice had been given them . In the retreat , they shew themselves , and rode about to intercept and catch such as might happen incircumspectly to straggle from the Army , and they failed very narrowly to have attrapped William Douglas of Ively , a young Gentleman of my Lords family ; for which incircumspection , he was soundly chid by him , as having thereby hazarded his owne person , and his Lords honour . After this he came to Langhop , where his infirmity having continued long , and being now increased through travell , it grew at last to a formed disease . Wherefore hee was carried from thence to Smeeton , ( neare to Dalkeith ) a house belonging to James Richison , of whom wee have spoken before . His care of the good of the Church ( which was ever in his mouth during his sicknesse ) shewed that it lay nearest to his heart of all other things . There hee departed out of this transitory life , with great comfort to himselfe ; and great griefe of all honest men , and with a generall regreting of all men ; there being none such an enemy to him , or who did so envie or hate him , as not to professe and expresse his sorrow for his death : King , Courtiers , Noblemen , Barons , Burgesses , Commons ; men of all degrees , ranke , qualitie and condition , did lament him : such was the forceable power of vertue in him . Of which wee will say no more , onely we will set downe this following Elogium to be considered by the Reader , then which nothing can bee said more true : Here therefore let it remaine as a witnesse of his vertue , and the Writers deserved affection . Morte jacet saevâ Angusius , spes illa bonorum , Terror malorum maximus : Cui , laude & luctu meritis , pia turba parentat ; Patrem , Parentem ingeminans . Par studium impietas simulat : quem carpere livor Vivum solebat , mortuum Aut veris sequitur lacrymis , aut gaudia fictis Celat pudenda ; & laudibus Saltem non fictis os penè invita resolvit , Seque arguit mendacii . O laus ! O veri vis ! O victoria ! honosque Cunctis triumphis clarior ! Yet were not the aspersions of his enemies ( if hee had any such ) of any moment or consequence : I say , if he had any , for he had no private enemies who hated him , or bore him any ill will for his owne cause ; onely such as were enemies to the Countrey , and the true Religion , hated him as a main pillar , and supporter of these . The greatest objection they had against him ( I mean that carried any show of truth ) was his modestie , ( which they termed slownesse ) but after his death , all mouthes were closed . The love which was generally borne to him was exceeding great , both for his house and families sake ( which was ever the most popular in this Kingdome of all other names ) as also , and that no lesse for his owne vertue , and personall humanitie and courtesie . He was of a blackish and swart complexion , tall of stature , and of a flender body , but well proportioned and straight limmed ; of a weake and tender constitution , and not very able to endure travell , but having courage enough , and willingnesse to undergoe . His death was ascribed to witchcraft : and one Barbary Nepair in Edinburgh ( wife to Archbald Douglas , of the house of Casshogle ) was apprehended on suspition , but I know not whether shee was convicted of it or not : onely it was reported that she was found guiltie , and that the execution was deferred , because she was with childe , but afterward , no body insisting in the pursuit of her , shee was set at libertie . Anna Simson , a famous witch , is reported to have confessed at her death , that a picture of waxe was brought to her , having A. D. written on it , which ( as they said to her ) did signifie Archbald Davidson , and ( shee not thinking of the Earle of Angus , whose name was Archbald Douglas , and might have beene called Davidson , because his fathers name was David ) did consecrate or execrate it , after her forme , which ( she said ) if she had knowne to have represented him , she would not have done it for all the world . He died the day of 1588. yeares : his body was buried in Abernathie , and his heart in Douglas , by his owne direction . He is the last Earle of the race of George , entitled Master of Angus , who was slain at Flowdon , &c. Of Archbald the ninth Earle of Angus . Angus by cruell death lies here , The good mans hope , the wickeds feare ; The praise and sorrow of the most Religious , who as having lost A father , mourn ; worst men are knowne To faine a woe if they have none : Envie , accustomed to wrong His guiltlesse life , imployes her tongue , Now a loud Trumpet of his fame , And weeps , if not for grief , for shame , Enforc't to give her selfe the lie : O! Power of Truth , O! victory , By which more honour is obtain'd , Then is in greatest triumphs gain'd . Archibaldus Duglassius Angusius . OLim saeva truci dente calumnia Clam vanas ad opes fraude viam struens Mussabat , posito aut palam pudore Jactabat caput in meum : ( O si non nimium credita ! ) Crimina , Foeda atrociaque infandaque crimina , Aut Diro Lepedo , aut fero Cethegi Patrandum genio nefas . Quos caecis stimulis ambitio impotens , Aut aestu rabies fervida pectoris , Auri aut sacra mali fames in omne , Egit praecipites scelus . Moliri in patriam incendia , spicula In patrem patriae , sanctaque numina Regum alti solio Jovae locata Celsis pellere sedibus : Regni praesidium , spem , decus exsterae Genti ludibrium tradere , civium Vota , & pontificis ( nefas ) tyranni , Romae degeneris metum . O linguae improbitas , callida nectere Fraudes , insidias , exitium bonis : Regum aures animosque suspicaces , Ficto ludere crimine . Haec cuncti cumulum stagitii manus Patrare ? haec facinus mens coquere impium ! Haec coctum potuit probare ? pectus Hoc conscire nefas sibi . At me qui sapiens intima sensuum Scrutaris Deus ( & quisquis erat mihi Arcani penito sinu reposti Testis ) crimine liberas . Vitae perpetuus compositae tenor , Mens legum patiens , imperii jugum Justi legitimum subire mitis ; Cunctis cedere lenitas : Non claros atavos stemmate regio , Regnatasque atavis penè provincias Et belli decora , & feri triumphis Partam Martis adoream : Non longo titulos ordine turgidos , Arces pennigeris turribus arduas , Non turbam numerans gravem clientum , aut Latis praedia finibus . Nudi simplicitas candida pectoris Et semper similis cana fides sui , Fraudes impietas licet , dolosque Laudan̄s clam sibi rideat . Sincerae rigidè justitiae tenax Dextra , a flagitio libera , sanguinis Expers innocui , doli rapinae , Solis noxia furibu●… . Archbald Douglas Earle of Angus . BLack slander erst her ends to gaine , Employ'd her Art to wound my name Low whispers were her secret traine , Her open force lies void of shame . O! that they had lesse credit found , As from the thought my heart was free ; Lepidus nor Cethegus own'd Such mischiefs as were charg'd on me : Whom love of vengeance set on fire , Or blinde ambition overswaid , Or hope of riches or desire Of pleasure , t' every vice betraid , As if my soul such plots had knowne As would a publicke ruine bring By justling from his sacred Throne My Countreyes father , and my King. And so to forraigne scorne expose The Kingdomes glory , shield and hope ; The peoples joy and dayly vowes , The scourge and terrour of the Pope . Thus wicked tongues with cunning Art Weave nets , the innocent to catch , And to the jealous eare impart Fain'd treasons , which their fanciesatch . So base a villanie to act Was it , for such a hand as mine , Or could my breast contrive the fact , Or conscious be of the black sinne . But I appeale my God to thee , Who know'st my heart , and to those friends Who were most intimate with me , How much I loath'd unworthy ends . The constant tenour of my life , Was calme obedience to the will Of rightfull power : detesting strife I shunn'd ( more then resisted ) ill . Though my descent from Kings I drew , And in my Grandsiers well might see A Princely power , none ever knew A bragging vanitie in me . No emptie titles fill'd my minde With hatefull pride ; nor stately tops Of Towr's , large fields , nor troups of kinde And humble followers , swell'd my hopes . An equall vertue led my way , A spotlesse truth adorn'd my heart , Let wicked falsehood boast and say ; Loe what I compast by my Art. By me sincere strict Justice dwelt , From guiltlesse bloud my hand was free , No wrong my harmlesse neighbour felt , Onely theeves punisht were by mee . Ad Archibaldum tertium , cum post primum exilium reversus , ultra Speiam Elginii in Moravia relegatus esset . Nuper fortunae varias experte procellas Angusie , & velis aequor a iniqua tuis : Nuper in immenso pelagi jactate profundo : Obruteque insanis pene voraginibus : Nunc quoque nescio quos iterum subiture labores , Quicquid id est sorti pectore perfer onus . Discute tristitiae nebulas ; frontemque serena : Anxietas animo sit procul atra tuo : Pelle graves curas , properantem & parce severi Sponte suâ fati praecipitare diem : Degeneres animos flatus levis aura sinistri Dejicit , aeternis in tenebrisque premit : At mala cum pungunt , tuleris si fortiter illa : Materiesque tibi causaque laudis erunt . Scilic et ille viros dignus numerarier inter : Hunc sequitur firmo gloria celsa pede : Cui dejecit mutatum nubila vultum , Blanda nec in fastus sustuiit aura leves : Qui solidum vitae servans , certumque tenorem , Robore fortunam vicit utramque pari . Ut fremat hinc Boreas , illinc ruat Eur us & auster , Et quatiat timidam fluctibus undaratem : Illa tamen medios inter secura tumultus Aetheris ; & rapidi vimque minasque freti , Saepe tenet cursum optatum , portaque potita Despicit irati murmura rauca maris . Hinc cape non obscura tuae exemplaria vitae Dura : nec rebus cedere disce malis . Magnis te quoque junge viris : quid passus Ulysses ? Exul in ignoto nudus inopsque solo . Quid cui Roma suae tulit incunabula gentis ? Queis sua in Adriaco Troia renata mari ? At quid ego haec antiqua ? quid & peregrina recordor ? Ditior exemplis stat patria alta sui●… : Stat genus ordine longo : atavos age , respi●…e , avosqu●… , Quot sunt Duglasiae nomina magne domus : Quot bello insignesque duoes , & fortibus armis Heroes ; saecli gloria quisque sui . Quem non nobilitat virtus afflicta ? polo quem Non 〈◊〉 ? 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , un●…s erit . Omnis turba salo fortunae exercita , & omnes Passa vices , vers●… ludibriumque rotae : Quas pax infida insidias , discrimina bellum Quaeque habet exilii taedia , longa dies : Nec nisi post exantlatos , venêre , labor●…s , Otia ; nec nisi post dura pericla quies . Te quoque defunctum , confide , laboribus olim Laetior excipiet , candidiorque dies . Securusque inter du●…ces memorabis ami●…os , Tu quoque fortunae tristitia factatu●… . Tristia nunc : sed quae tune & meminisse juvabit : Agnosse & decoris prima elementa tui : Hac itum : hac quicunque alta affectabit , eundum est : Hâc te sublimi , gloria celsa , via Sistet avos supra , atque atavos , accingere : O te Quo sors ! quo virtus ! quo Deus ipse vocat ! Fallor ? an heroas supra priscosque f●…rosque Tollere te tanta sydera mole parant Virtuti labor est comes : ire per ardua rerum Gaudet & invicto fata superba grad●… . Aude ingens , jam nunc superi ad templa 〈◊〉 Olympi Carpere , qua pronum semita monstrat iter : Aude , inquam , nec tu surgentia nubila ventis Aetheraterram , undas tartarave ipsa time . Tantum , quem vener ar●… Deum pius , igne●…s insta Sollicitans ; cursus dirig●… ille tuos . Ille gubernaclo succedet rector & ille Inveniet facilem per vada salsa viam Anfractusque vagos per , & avia , & invia vitae , Et brevia , & syrtes saxaque caeca ratem Securam in placida sistet statione : perenne Ut teneas celsi flammea templa poli . To Archbald the third , when after his returne from his first banishment , he was confined to Elgine of Murray beyond Spey . THou who but lately didst endure the smart Of roughest stormes , and with a Pilots art Hast scap'd the many dangers of the seas , O Angus ! now in place of wished ease New troubles come : I know not by what fate : Keep your great spirit firme in every state . Shake off sad thoughts , and let your looks appear Chearfull , without the darkning clouds of fear . Deep cares expell , let not impatience haste Those ills , which of themselves approach too fast . Poor worthlesse soules are prest below the weight Of light afflictions : to a noble height In crosse affaires doe thou thy courage raise : By this thou maist obtaine deserved praise . He merits honour , and may justly be Esteem'd a man , whom no adversitie Dejects , nor prosperous successe fwels with pride ; But by a constant temper doth abide Still like himselfe , and with an equall minde Both fortunes beares . Let every boistrous winde And threatning wave oppose his labouring oare , He steeres his course , and seekes the wished shoare , Slighting the angry waters chiding noise . Let these ( like hard ) examples prompt your choice : Learne to meet ills , till you with all compare For fortitude admir'd : Ulysses bare Worse harmes then yours ; a stranger , poore , alone , Uncloath'd , an Exile , wandring and unknowne . Aen●…s and Antenor suffered long Ere Rome was built , or Venice : but I wrong Our owne , to dwell on strangers , since there be More store at home : marke the whole Progenie Of Douglasses your fathers , how they are Fam'd for their gallant acts in peace and warre : Each worthy was the glory of his time : None without vertue can to honour climbe . Looke on all ages , you shall hardly see One rais'd by fortune , but through miserie . Who live at ease , and least disturbance feele , Soone beare the mock'ry of her rowling wheele . How many traines hath peace ? What discords warre ? What troubles exile ? Yet no pleasures are Obtain'd but after toile ; nor have we rest Till dangers and difficulties are past . So thou , when this is past , hereafter may Injoy at home a calme and pleasing day : And to your dear friends chearfully relate The sad effects of Fortunes sullen hate : Sad now , but pleasant to remember , when Your prentisage hath brought a noble gaine . This is the way : would you a great name win ? Then tread the steps your Grandsires travell'd in . Where Vertue , Fortune , where your God doth call , Follow : my thoughts deceive me , or you shall Excell those Worthies who alreadie are , Or will be famous : so the starres prepare Your youth . Faire vertue never dwells alone , Hard labour is her neare companion : Un-easie taskes she loves , and joyes to beat The roughest wayes , and triumph over fate . Be bold and onward , take your mounting flight , Till you have reacht a true Olympian height . Be bold , I say , and let no furious winde , ( minde . ( Though earth and hell should mix ) shake your brave Onely with God , whom you must still adore , You may be instant , and his aid implore : Let him direct your course , and he will be Your Pilot through the waves of misery , Steering your barke by every Rocke and Shelfe : Each strait and wheeling Poole His sacred Selfe Will guide the Oare , first to a place of rest On earth , then after death thou shalt be blest . Faults escaped in some copies . IN the Preface , page 6. line 18. for Long Willie , reade Longe-ville . p. 11. l. 2. for unum , r. unam . l. 15. for Duglasius , r , Duglasiis . In the Booke , p. 14. l. 21. for wanted , r. was . p. 25. l. 11. supply sonne . p. 34. l. 36. supply lessened . p. 43. l. 1. sup . long . p. 52. l. 43. for in furious , r. injurious . p. 64. l. 1. for people . r. pope . p. 70. 72. 74. 76. 78. in the titles , for Galloway , r. Liddesdale . p. 76. l. 17. for rather , brother , r. father-brother . p. 80. l. 13. for Douglas , r. Angus . p. 85. l. 8. sup . Prince . p. 102. l. 37. for words , r. wounds . p 107. l 42. for making , r. marrying . p. 131. l. 38 sup . not . p. 145. l. 7. for thing , r. though . p. 148. l. 30. r. therefore sow on . p. 154. l. 34. for extracted , r. execrated . p. 168. l. 31. for life , r. Fife . p. 171. l. 44. r. the prisoners goods were exchanged . p. 177. l. 18. for moved , r. composed . p. 179. l. 34. for new , r. shew . p. 233. l. 30. sup . not . p. 244. l. 2●… sup . not . p. 277. l. 3. sup . honos . p. 278. l. 10. for mother , r. brother . p. 335. l. 32. sup . out of . FINIS Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A45110-e900 Their Antiquitie and Originall . 2 Of their Nobility . 1. Of Vertue . 2. Of ; Degrees . 3. Of Offices and imployment . 4. Of bloud . 5. Of Fame . 3. Greatnesse . 4. Their valour . Notes for div A45110-e4600 Liv. lib. 7. de lacu Curtio . Livius . Notes for div A45110-e5300 Boet lib. 10. pag. 195. Holl. p. 164. Scot. Chro. Anno 787 Notes for div A45110-e10270 1316. King Robert Bruce in Ireland . The white battell . The battell of Billand . Herkley . The Douglas Emrauld Charter . Douglas sent into France to Balliol . 1327 Douglas at Stanhop park . Peace with England . King Bruce , dieth 1329 Notes for div A45110-e16260 His marriage . He is made Lord of Galloway . His sonnes . 1332. Battell at Duplin . Balliol Crowned at Scone . Douglas chaseth Balliol at Annand , the 25. of December , 1332. Warre proclaimed . Berwick besieged by K. Edward the third . Occasion of the battell at Halidoun hill . Notes for div A45110-e18200 Sonne naturall to Sir James . Her marriage One childe Marie . 1335 Convention at Perth , 2. April . 1335. Cummin overthrown at Kilblane , and slain . 1337. A battell at Blackburne . John Stirline defeated by Liddesdale . He takes the Castle of Hermitage . Hee fighteth five times with Lawrence in one day , and vanquisheth him . He is sent Ambassadour into France . Perth besieged by Robert Stuart . Recovereth Cowper . Perth taken . Stirline taken The originall of Innerleith . Occasion of taking the Castle of Edinburgh . The Castle taken , hee makes Archbald Douglas his brother Keeper . Alexander Ramsay taken by Liddisdale , and starved in the Hermitage . 1346. He is banished and restored again . The battell of Durham . King David ta●…en . Liddesdale taken also . 1353 He is slaine by the Earle of Douglas . Notes for div A45110-e21780 His marriage , wives , and children . Hee is taken prisoner at Du●…ham . Ransomed . He killes Liddesdale . And obtains his whole estate . Conflict at Nisbet-moor . He takes Berwick . 1355. Regained by the English. Douglas at the battell of Poictiers . 1363 A Parliament The union of the Kingdomes sought . Sir Thomas Musgrave taken by ' Douglas . The originall of the house of Glammes . 1384. Earle ' ouglas death . Notes for div A45110-e25050 His wife and children . The Originall of the houses of Drumlanrig , and Cavers . He goeth into France . He taketh Berwick . 15000. horsemen . Occasion of the battell of Otterburn . A combat betwixt Percie and Douglas . The battell of Otterburn . Douglas flain . Buried at Melrosse . He taketh and razeth the Castle of Lochmabane . His death . He founded the Hospitall of Holywood . Notes for div A45110-e27470 He is called the blacke Douglas . He marries the Kings daughter Egidia . His daughter married to the Earle of Orkney . He goes into Ireland . He takes and burnes Calinfoord . He returnes out of Ireland He is made Admirall . He is murthered by the Lord Clifford . Notes for div A45110-e28070 His marriage . His children . He refused to be Duke . His daughter Marjory contracted to Prince David . 1400. Their marriage . His death . He founded the Colledge of Bothwell . Notes for div A45110-e28740 His children . Or Tine man. Edinburgh Castle def●…nded by Douglas against King Henry the fourth . Occasion of the battell of Homildon , neere Milfield The battell lost , and Douglas taken . Occasion of the battell of Shrewsbury . Walter . Douglas taken 1406. He is set free . He burnes Penmoore . The soule road . His sonne Wigton and Buchan in France . The Duke of Clarence wounded by Sir John Swinton . Clarence slain by Buchan . Pasche Eve. The Earle Douglas goes into France . Made D. of Turraine The occasion of the battell of Vernoill . A battell at Vernoil : Douglas slain . The Scottish guard erected in France . Notes for div A45110-e33300 He is sent Ambassadour into England . Brings home the King. Variance betwixt the Governours . His death . Notes for div A45110-e43380 838. . Notes for div A45110-e44490 1389. His wife King Robert the third his daughter . First Laird of Fintrie . Notes for div A45110-e44750 Warden of the middle marches . 1436. The battel at Piperdean . 1436. He overthrevv Percie . Sir Gilbert Iohnstoun of Elphinston slain . Notes for div A45110-e45130 Dieth 1452. Notes for div A45110-e45290 Sibard his wife . Originall of the house of Balgonie , Sibard . Buch. lib. 7. Sibaulds . Sibaulds . His children . The originall of the house of Bonjedward . His person . He followeth the King against the Earle Douglas his Chief . 1457. He overthrowes the Earle Douglas & Percie in a bloudie battel in the Merse . Bond of Manreid and service by the Lord Hamilton to him . Indenture betwixt King Henry the sixth and him . 1460. He brings the French out of Anwick Castle . His death . 1462. Notes for div A45110-e47110 1468. His marriage . 1470. His children foure sonnes . Glenbarvies originall . Kilspindies originall . Three daughters . Base sonnes , Parkheads originall . He takes order with Cochran and the Courtiers . The relation thereof . 1474. Coghran a Mason . Coghrana a Singer . The King with his Army at Lawder . The Nobility meet in the Church . Angus makes this speech . The Lord Gray his speech . Angus called Bell the Cat. Cochran and his fellowes hanged . The Army dismissed the King comes to Edinburgh . Plot against the King. The K. sonne head of the faction of the Nobles against his father . Battell a●… Bannockburne . The K. 〈◊〉 . 1488. Five English Ships taken by Andrew Wood. A Parliament at Edinburgh 6. November 1488. Chambe●… . Lord Hume Angus Chancellour . Warre with England , and the occasion of the Field of Flowdon . Angus his speech to the King to disswade him from fighting , The field of Flowdon , 1513. Sept. 15. Angus death , 1514. A duel betwixt Angus and Spense . Notes for div A45110-e49280 1489. Cannabbie . 1491. 1510. Notes for div A45110-e49590 He marries Q. Margaret . The Queen looseth her Regencie by her marriage . Convention about choosing of a Governour . The Duke of Albanie made Governour . Prior Hepburn undermines the Lord Hume . Lady Margaret ' Douglas born at Harbottle in England . Ant. Darsius or De la Beaute slain 1517. Dissention betwixt Arran and Angus . 1520. Skitmish in Edinburgh betwixt them . 1520. 1521. Angus goeth into France . 1522. 1523. Albanies government abrogated . The Earle of Angus returns out of France . The Triumvirate of Angus , Argyle , and Lennox . The Triumvirate dissolved . The slaughter of Patrick Blackader , Archdeacon of Dumblane . A faction against Angus . Conflict betwixt Angus and Balcleuch at the bridge of Melrosse . 1526. Arran joynes with Angus , and Lennox makes up a faction against them . Conflict at Linlithgow . Lennox and Hamilton . Lennox slain . The beginning of a change with Angus , and his discourting . The King escapes to Stirlin Castle . Angus and the Douglasses banished from the Court. Parliament at Edinburgh the 6. of Sept. 1528. The Douglasses are forfeited . Tantallon besieged , Argyles expedition against them frustrated . Angus returneth to England . He and Sir George Privie Counsellours there . William . Glames burnt . Kilspindie dieth in France . Haldenrig . Hirsel lands given to A. Ker. Fawla . Solemne Mosse . K. James the fifth dieth . 1542. Hamilton Governour . Sir George Douglas his speech concerning marrying with England . Lennox comes home out of France . Angus and Sir George made prisoners . They are rel●…ased again . Lennox goes to England . Marries Lady Margaret Douglas . The Governour and Angus at Coldinghame . Sir Ralph Ivers , and Sir Brian Laitons expedition . Angus speech to the Governour . Occasion of Pinkie field . Defeature at Pinkie . Queen Mary sent into France , Queen-Mother Governour . The devill is in this greedy Glad she will never be full . Angus dyer . Notes for div A45110-e55470 His lurking and b●…ing a Greeve , He is a prisoner in England . R●…turnes . Lives retired and privately at home . He comes abroad , and begins to deal in publick 〈◊〉 . The Queen-Mother dieth . Morton Ambassadour in England . Queen Mary arrives in Scotland . Friendship betwixt Morton and Murray . Their ruine plotted . The Queen goeth to the North , they accompany her . The Queen at Innernesse . Alexander Gordon beheaded . She goes to Aberdene . The battle at Corrighie , 1562. Lennox and Henry Lord Darnely come ho●… . Proposition of martiage with the Queen . They mar●…y the 27. of July 1565. The Runne-about Rode. Morton Chancellour . Rizio . Rizio his death plotted by the King. Rizio killed . 1566. Martii 8. Morton flees to England . The Lord Ruthven dies there . Bothwell the Queens favourite . Morton returnes . King James borne . 1566. 19. June . The King murdered by Bothwell . The Nobilitie bands against Bothwell . The Queen and Bothwel at Borthwick Carbury hill . The battell of Carburie hill . 1567. June the 5. King James crowned . 1567. July 26. Murray Regent . Earle Bothwel a Pirate . Is pursued . Flees to Denmark . Dies mad there . The Queen escapes out of Logh-leven , 1568. May 2. The field of Langside the 10. of May. 1568. Langside lord . May 13. 1568. The Roade of Hoddam . The Regent goes to England . 1569. A Convention at Perth . Convention at Stitlin . The Earle of Northumberland taken , and sent to Logh-leven . The Regent Murray 〈◊〉 : at Lithgow . Convention at Edinburgh , 1. May. 1570. July 13. Lennox Regent . Morton goes to Brechin . The Regent also goes thither . The Garrison yeelds . Morton sent into England . He returnes and comes to Stirlin the 1. of May , 1571. The Lousie-Law . Parliament the 14. of May 1571. without the Gates of Edinburgh . A fight at Craig-Miller . the 2. of June 1571. Morton at Leith . Conflict with the Lords of the Queens Faction . The 10. of June . At the Gallow-Law . Parliament in Stirlin , the 4. of August . Contention about Bishops . An attempt upon Stirlin , and the Lords there . Lennox the Regent killed . Buried . 1571. Marre Regent 9. Septemb. Those of Edinburgh set fire in Dalkeith . A truce in August 1572. Marre the Regent dieth the 28 , of October . Morton Regent the 24. of Novem. 1572. The Queens partie within the castle of Edinburgh . The Castle blocked up . Parliament at Edinburgh , the 26. of Jan. Siege of the C●…le of Edinburgh . 1573. 〈◊〉 . April . The castle rendered the 19. of May. Grange executed . Parliament Jan. 26. 1572. Acts concerning Religion . Generall Assembly in Edinburgh . 1573. The Red Swire . Morton dim●…s 〈◊〉 The Lord Glames slain at Stirlin . Morton President of the Councell . Parliament in Stirlin Castle the 25. of July 1578. Duellbetwixt Tait and Johnston . Athole dies at Stirlin . The King comes to Edinburgh and makes his entrie the 17. of October . The beginning of Mortons fall . Obignie comes home in September . 1579. Controversie betwixt the Lord Ruthven and Olyphant . Morton accused of the K. murther . Imprisoned in the Castle . Morton is sent to Dumbarton . He is brought back to Edinburgh the 27. of May : And there condemned of treason . † It would be knowne what was in these Letters . His confession before his death . Morton ' brought to the Scaffold . His death . Notes for div A45110-e65750 His education . He fleeth in●…o England . Change in Court. 1582. Justice Aires in Perth in July . The roade of Ruthven 1582 August 24. Angus returneth home . He joins with the Lords against the Courtiers . 1583. I ennox dies in France . Gowrie takes a remission for the fact at Ruthven . Arran returns to Court. Angus confined beyond Forth . He is sent beyond Spaye . He goeth to Elgin in Murray . Discord betwixt the Ministers and Courtiers . Melvin flees to Berwick . His Apology Gowrie commanded to go beyond sea . Lodowick Duke of Lennox brought home . Gowry taken at Dundie . Angus comes to Stirling to the Lords . The Lords Declaration . The Lords flee from Stirling toward England . Archbald Douglas hanged . Argatie executed . Gowrie beheaded at Stirlin . 1584. the 28. of April . His Lady basely and beastly used . Parliament at Ed●…nburgh the 22. of May 1584. The Lords forfeited . Protestation against the Acts of Parliament by the Ministers . A●…ran mocks the ●…inisters . Maines and Drummewhasle executed . Angus at Newcastle . Angus his kindnesse and bountie . Master John Colvill sent to the Court of England , A letter from London to Angus from the Authour . Another Letter from the Author to Angus . The Lords brought to London . Plotting against Arran . Sir Lewis Ballandine Ambassadour in England . Sir Francis Russell killed . The Scots sue fo●… a Scottish Church at London but cannot obtain it . The Lords c●…m●… to the Borders . They come ●…o Fawkirk the 1. of November 1585. Their Declaration . The Road of Stirlin . M James Halden slain . Stirlin taken by the Lords . They come into the Kings presence . Glames Treasurer . A letter written to the Authour , concerning the State of those times . Presented to Angus . Discourse concerning Mr. Craigs Sermon . Of Obedience to Tyrants , and Impunitie of Tyrants . Bodinus his absurdity . Apol. cap. 34. Of Blackwoods opinion . Of Active and Passive Obedience . Angus an●… The Chancellours place offered ●…o Angus . Looke for the translation of these verses in the following page . The translation of the verses in the page foregoing . 
A45112	----	The history of the houses of Douglas and Angus written by Master David Hume ... Hume, David, 1560?-1630? 1643 Approx. 1541 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 235 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2003-01 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A45112 Wing H3658 ESTC R398 13650797 ocm 13650797 100982 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A45112) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 100982) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 791:37) The history of the houses of Douglas and Angus written by Master David Hume ... Hume, David, 1560?-1630? [18], 440 p. Printed by Evan Tyler ..., Edinburgh : 1643-1644. Caption title: The history of the hovse and race of Douglas and Angus. Second part has special t.p.: The second part of The history of the Douglasses : containing the House of Angus. 1643. Errata: p. 440. Reproduction of original in Huntington Library. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. Gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. 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Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Douglas family -- History. Angus, Earls of -- History. Nobility -- Scotland -- Biography. Scotland -- History. 2002-09 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2002-10 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2002-11 Judith Siefring Sampled and proofread 2002-11 Judith Siefring Text and markup reviewed and edited 2002-12 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion THE HISTORY OF THE HOUSES OF DOUGLAS AND ANGUS . Written by Master DAVID HUME of GODSCROFT . EDINBURGH , Printed by EVAN TYLER , Printer to the Kings most Excellent Majestie . 1644. The Authour to the Reader . I Know ( Reader ) that he who undertakes to write , makes himself a mark of censure for men to level at . For to please all men , shall then only be possible , when all men shal be of one minde ; til then , we look for as many dislikings , as there is diversities of opinions , each man condemning what is not according to his own humour and palate . Some will storm or scorn ( perhaps ) our writing as an un-necessary scribling , and paper blurring : others will quarrell at the subject , that we should write a History ; others that such , so composed , and formal of a private family , with such commendation . Again , some will accuse us of partiality ; and some will even question the truth of it . Neither will there bee wanting such as will blame the forme and fashion of the work , as too short , or too long ; and many ( I doubt not ) will carp at the Stile , the Phrase , the Periods , the Diction and Language . In all these particulars , to satisfie all men , is more then we can hope for : yet thus much shortly of each of them , to such as will give eare to reason : That I write , and of this subject , I am constrained to do it ; not by any violence or compulsion , but by the force of duty , as I take it : for being desired to do it by those I would not refuse , I thought my self bound to honour that name , and in , and by it , our King & Countrey . And so I have done what I can , & should have been glad to have done more , if it had lyen in my power . As for the writing of a History I could never have dreamed that I should have needed to make Apologie for it : neither did I ever hear it accounted prophane , till I had done . Then by chance I lighted on a certain Authour who excuseth himself for so doing , and promiseth to doe so no more . It may be neither shall I. Yet dare I not promise so much : neither see I any reason why I should : for if by profane , they mean that History maketh men profane , and leadeth to profanitie and atheisme ; then certainly we may justly say , that it is nothing lesse . For in it we see and behold , as in a Glasse , Gods Providence guiding and ruling the World , and mens actions , which arrive often to unexpected events , and sometimes even to such ends as are quite contrary to the Actors intentions . In History also we see men , and our selves in them , our vertues or vices , which is the second point of wisdom : this leads us also to God. But if ( by profane ) they mean whatsoever is not Scripture , and would have men to read and write nothing but what belongs unto it ; then must we condemne all humane learning & knowledge , all Arts and Sciences , which are the blessings of God , and in which Moses and Paul were trained up , and well seen . It is true , there is no knowledge comparable to that of holy Scripture , and we cannot be too conversant about it ; yet there is no kind of knowledge but is usefull , & may and ought to be esteemed and embraced ▪ Our last end should ever be to God and Christ : but to speak alwayes of him directly , is neither required nor possible . As he is the end , so the way to this end is by speaking of him , or of things which may lead us to him : yet is it not necessary at all times to speak of such things professedly as lead us that way . He is our end in himself , and for himself , and happy were we if in him we could terminate all our desires . Vertue leads to him , and is to be embraced as such : but to obtrude it at first for that consideration , and on that respect , it may be doubted whether or not that be alwayes the right Method and best way of proceeding . The other may happen to prove more available with some , which is , to learne first to be enamoured & to love honour ; then vertue for honour ; then vertue for it self ; then to account nothing vertue without God , who not being to be found but in Christ , must needs be sought for above all things . Now History is , as it were , the A B C. of this Method , and the beautifull Picture ; by looking on which , our desire of honour is kindled , and so of vertue , which onely brings true honour with it . Neither is it needfull to proclaim this intention to the world : yea , I know not whether to say thus much be not even too much . It is enough to set the object before them , and to furnish them matter for their thoughts to work upon : as for the measure of praise wee give them , if after thou hast read and weighed , thou shalt think it too much , all that I can say , is , that I think it but their due , and speak as I think , & according to the scantling of my own judgment . Touching partiality , I deny it not , but am content to acknowledge , my interest . Neither do I think that ever any man did set pen to paper without some particular relation of Kindred , Countrey , or such like . The Romanes in writing the Romane , the Grecians in writing their Greek Histories ; friends writing to , of , or for friends , may be thought partiall as Countrey-men and friends . The vertuous may be deemed to be partiall toward the vertuous , and the godly toward the godly and religious : All Writers have some such respect , which is a kinde of partiality . I do not refuse to be thought to have some , or all of these respects , and I hope none wil think I do amisse in having them . Pleasing of men , I am so farre from shunning of it , that it is my chief end and scope : But let it please them to be pleased with vertue , otherwise they shal find nothing here to please them . If thou findest any thing here besides , blame me boldly . And why should any be displeased that wil be pleased with it ? would to God I could so please the world , I should never displease any . But if either of these ( partiality or desire to please ) carry me besides the truth ; then shall I confesse my self guilty , and esteem these as great faults , as it is faultie and blame-worthy to forsake the truth . But otherwise so the truth be stuck unto , there is no hurt in partiality and labouring to please . And as for truth , clip not , nor champ not my words ( as some have done elsewhere ) and I beleeve the worst affected will not charge mee with lying . I have ever sought the truth in all things carefully , and even here also , and that painfully in every point : where I find it assured , I have set it down confidently ; where I thought there was some reason to doubt , I tell my Authour : So that if I deceive , it is my self I deceive , and not thee ; for I hide nothing from thee , that I my self know , and as I know it ; leaving place to thee , if thou knowest more or better . Which if thou doest , impart and communicate it ; for so thou shouldest do , and so is truth brought to light , which else would lye hid and buried . My paines and travel in it have been greater then every one would think , in correcting my errours ; thine will not bee so much . And both of us may furnish matter for a third man to finde out the truth more exactly , than either of us hath yet done . Help therefore , but carp not . Concerning the manner & form , this is partly the cause why I have used this , which I do here follow , that all things being laid open , & exposed to thy view , thou mayest have to choose on , or to finde somewhat of thine own ; & where I could not resolve a doubt , thou mayest see it , and have some mean ( perhaps ) to solve it better . I have also in many places interposed my judgement of mens actions : I think it the life of History , & without which it were little better , than an old wifes tale . It is true , it were not so needfull . if all men were alike judicious : but seeing they are not so , it is absolutely necessary ; that so those who read carelesly and sleepingly may bee awaked ; who minde onely pleasure , may have profit thrust upon them ; that the dull may be quickned , and the judicious have his judgement sharpened , and a finer edge put upon it , by this whet-stone . I know there are that think otherwise , and that all should be left to the collection and discretion of the Reader : But this is my opinion , and I know no Writer of note , or account , but interposeth his censure of things . What name you give this piece , I am very indifferent ; Call it History , Chronicle , Comentarie , Annals , Journal lives , or ( if you please ) discourses or exercitations , it matters not much . Let who will , for me , define , divide , and dispute of the nature , of the bounds and Marches of Airts , and writings , and of their Lawes , this kinde is my lot or choice at this time . For the same cause or reason ( that men may not take any thing upon meer trust , I sift the judgment of others , and am content that thou likewise canvase mine . I do it without partiality , or respecting any mans person : though otherwise , and in other things I reverence them never so much , yet I cannot but respect reason more : where they bring not that strong enough to satisfie , I do not conceale or dissemble it , I do not refuse the same measure from others : if thou doest not like my reason , reject it , but let reason be thy rule , for it is mine according to my capacity . For the Language it is my Mother-tongue , that is , Scottish : and why not , to Scottish-men ? Why should I contemne it ? I never thought the difference so great , as that by seeking to speak English , I would hazard the imputation of affectation . Every tongue hath the own vertue and grace . Some are more substantiall , others more ornate and succinct . They have also their own defects and faultinesse , some are harsh , some are effeminate , some are rude , some affectate and swelling . The Romanes spake from their heart , The Grecians with their lips only , and their ordinary speech was complements ; especially the Asiatick Greeks did use a loose and blown kinde of phrase . And who is there that keeps that golden mean ? For my own part , I like our own , & he that writes well in it , writes well enough to me . Yet I have yeelded somewhat to the tyrannie of custome , and the times , not seeking curiously for words , but taking them as they came to hand . I acknowledge also my fault ( if it be a fault ) that I ever accounted it a mean study , and of no great commendation to learn to write , or to speak English , and have loved better to bestow my pains and time on forreigne Languages , esteeming it but a Dialect of our own , and that ( perhaps ) more corrupt . I say the same of the Stile : I follow no rules , but according to my disposition for the time , so it is high or low , long or short , sweet or sharp , as was my humour for that houre . As in Poesie , so in Prose ; who can choose ? Or how many are there that care for these things , or can discern ? The Age is too secure for Writers to be too curious . And thus much shall suffice to have spoken of these things , and to satisfie ( I hope ) the candide Reader . As for those who delight to carp , we say no more to them , but onely this , That as they take a libertie to themselves to judge others , so there will bee found some that will pay them home in their own coyne . Farewell . A CATALOGUE OF THE Lives contained in this History . PART . I. Of the House of DOUGLAS . 1. SHolto fol. 1. 2. William , father of the Scoti in Italy . 5. 3. William the first Lord , created at the Parliament of Forfair . 10. 4. John the second Lord. 11. 5. William the third Lord. 12. 6. Archbald the fourth Lord. ibid. 7. William , maker of the Indenture with the Lord Abernethie . ibid. 8. Hugh , whom his foes found never sleeping . 15. 9. William the Hardic . 16. 10. Good Sir James , slain in Spain . 20. 11. Archbald Lord Galloway , slain at Halidoun . 53. 12. Hugh the ninth Lord. ibid. 13. William Lord Liddisdale , the flower of Chivalry . 62. 14. William the first Earle . 79. 15. James , slain at Otterburne . 92. 16. William Lord Nithsdale . 108. 17. Grimme Archbald . 111. 18. Archbald Tine-man . 114. 19. Archbald Earle of Wigton . 133. 20. William , slain in Edinburgh Castle . 144. 21. Grosse James . 157. 22. William , slain in Stirlin . 161. 23. James put into Lindores . 194. PART . II. Of the House of ANGUS . OF the House of Angus before it came to the name of Douglas . 205 , 1. William Earle of Douglas , and Angus . 207. 2. George his son . 208. 3. William . 209. 4. James . 210. 5. George the second . ibid. 6. Archbald , called Bell the Cat. 219. Of George Master of Angus , and son to Archbald the first . 237. 7. Archbald that married the Queen . 238. 8. David . 277. 9. James , Earle Morton , Regent . 278. 10. Archbald the third , called good Earle Archbald . ibid. THE PREFACE . Of the DOUGLASSES in generall : that is , Of their 1 Antiquitie , ( to which is joyned their Originall ) 2 Nobility and descent , 3 Greatnesse , 4 and Valour of the Familie and Name of DOUGLAS . I Think it will not be amisse to place here before the doore ( as it were ) and entrie into this discourse and Treatise ( like a Signe or Ivie-bush before an Inne ) an old verse , which is common in mens mouths . So many , so good , as of the Douglasses have been , Of one sirname were ne're in Scotland seen . This saying being ancient , and generally received , will serve to invite the curious and candid Reader , and like a charme will fright away malignant spirits , and detractors , who labour to lessen and extenuate what they cannot deny . Neither is this a publick fame only roavingly scattered , and soone vanishing , but such as hath continued from age to age , and which is authorized and confirmed by all Writers , and which is most of all true in it selfe , ( as shall appeare by this discourse ) and nothing immodest or immoderate . For if we consider these two together joyntly ( so many and so good ) that is , their number and their worth , we shall finde none that can match them in both these put together . There may be found of other names some as good , but not so many . And again , though there be as many , yet are they not so good . This truth I have not heard impugned , but it hath hitherto been imbraced without all contradiction ( even of calumnie it selfe ) I know not if without envie . But let that monster eat her own heart , and teare her owne bowels : and that she may do so yet more , we will give her further occasion to doe it , by enlarging this comparative thus ; So many , so good , &c , of subjects race were never in Europe seen : And yet farther , In the world were never seen . This is not any rhetoricall amplification , or poeticall hyperbol●… , but a positive and measured truth . If any , after he hath read and pondered their actions , and paralleld them with those whose names any Historie hath transmitted to the knowledge of posterity : If any man ( I say ) shall find after due search and straight judgment , either in this our countrey , or in this our Isle of Brittain , or in this fourth part of the world , Europe ; or throughout the whole Universe , such valour to have continucd in any one house or name ( that were Subjects , and not Kings , or Princes ) and to have been so heredivary to all of them ; and as if it had been intailed , descending by succession 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to son , and from brother to brother , ( the successour still striving to out go his predecessour ) in that height of excellency , and for so many generations : Then 〈◊〉 this saying be suspected as partiall , or branded with an untruth . Otherwayes be contented to bear witnesse to the truth , or at least give others leave to do it , and receive thou it as such , without murmuring , or impatiencie . Now as they have surpassed all other names , so if we compare them amongst themselves , it will prove a hard and difficult judgment to determine who deserves the prize and hath been most excellent . There bath been twenty persons and moe , who have possest the chief houses , and principall families of Douglas and Angus from William ( to go no higher ) who died in Berwick a prisoner , besides those worthy branches ( the Lord of Niddisdaill , Liddisdaill , Galloway , Ormond murray , Balvain , Dalkeith , &c. There is none almost , whose life and the times afforded occasion of action , but hath made himself singularly conspicuous by some notable exploit or other , as is to be seen in their severall lives . For the present we will onely take a generall view of them in grosse , according to these heads : 1. Antiquity ( which includes their originall ) 2. Nobilitie . 3. Greatnesse . 4. Valour . And first , we will consider them without any comparison in themselves simply , and absolutely , then we will compare them with others both within , and without the Countrey ; and so I hope the truth of our assertion shall appear clear and evident unto the eyes of all those , that will not obstinately shut their eyes against so bright shining a light . To begin then with their Antiquity and Originall , so far as we can learn and find either in History , or Monument , by evident or tradition , which we will set down here in order of time , as we have gathered and collected them . 1. And first , we have that tradition which is most ancient of all others in the dayes of Solvathius King of Scotland in the year 767. when Donald Bane usurped the title of King , and had in a battell almost defeated the Kings army , a certain Nobleman ( called afterward Sholto Douglas ) came in to their succour , and overthrew the said Donald , whom he slew in the field and scattered his army , as is set down at length in his life . 2. The. second witnesse of their Antiquity and Originall is brought from beyond sea , out of Italy , in the family of the Scoti of Plaisance which is proved to have sprung from the Douglases at large in the life of William the fourth man of that name . The time is in the dayes of Charlemaign in the year 779. or ( as our Writers ) 800. or 801. In the reign of Achaius King of Scotland . 3. Our third witnesse is a publike Monument out of a Monastery ( which were the Registers of those times ) the Monastery of Icolmekill , which tell that Malcolme Kenmore at the Parliament of Forfair in the yeare 1057. or 1061. ( did not advance to that dignity , for they had the equivalent of it before ) but adorned with the new stile of Lord , is some of the name of Douglas , which stile was then first brought into this Countrey by imitation of other Nations . 4. Our fourth witnesse is in the year 1133. The foundation of the Abbey of Lesmie Hagoe confirmed by King David , wherein it is expresly bounded by the Barronie of Douglasdaile . Now seeing this is but a confirmation , the dotation must have gone before in some other Kings dayes . 5. The fifth witnesse is in the dayes of King William ( Nephew to this David ) who began his reigne in the yeare 1163. He erected the towne of Aire into a free brough Royall , and amongst the witnesses of their Charter are Alexander and William Douglasses . 6. The sixth is a mortmain , and dotation granted to the Bishop of Murray , where the same names are inserted ( William and Alexander Douglasses ) for witnesses . It is not certain whether these be the same that were witnesses in the former Charter of Aire , but it is likeliest they were the same . In what yeare of King Williams reigne this was we have not yet learned , but he reigned till the year 1214. 7. The seaventh is , the Indenture made between William Lord Douglas , and Hugh Lord Abernethie in the dayes of King Alexander the third , 1259. Some fourty five years after this last King William , the particulars of this Indenture are set down in the life of the said William , who is the ninth man of the name of Douglas . 8. Eighthly , we have also ( though much later ) in the dayes of King Robert Bruce , and good Sir James Douglas , mention made of two Douglasses , ( besides Sir James ) one James Douglas of Lowden , and Andrew Douglas in the publike rolls ( three rolls marked , 1. 16. ) King Robert gives to James of Lowdon a confirmation of the lands of Calder-cleere , and Kinnaule , and Carnewath : To Andrew Douglas he gives Corsewell , which was fallen into his hands by the forfeiture of the Earle of Winton , or Wigton . Now what these two were , and whether or not they were in kinne to the Lords of Douglas we know not . Onely I have heard it reported that the lands of Lowden were gotten from the Lords of Douglas ; and Calder-cleere is known to have been given off from their estate . Now howbeit these two be not very ancient , yet it may be gathered that the name of Douglas was ancient , even then being propagated into so many branches , which could not have been done of a sudden , but in processe of time : These things do confute those Authours who reckon the Originall of the Douglasses from good Sir James , or at the most from his father William : Because our Writers , Major , Boetius , and Buchanan , name none before them . But they intending , and minding more the generall History of the Countrey , then the descent , or beginning of particular houses , may perhaps be excused herein ; yet it doth not follow , that there were none before , because they have past them in silence . And so much shall suffice to have spoken of their Antiquity , and Originall as far as we know . I say expresly as far as we know ; for certainly we do not yet know them fully ; We do not know them in the fountain , but in the stream , not in the root , but in the stock and stemme ; for we know not who was the first mean man , that did by his vertue raise himselfe above the vulgar to such eminent place and state , as our Sholto behoved to have been of , before he wan the battell , and got the name of Douglas , which hath drowned his former name : for none but some great man of great friendship and dependance could have been able to have overcome this Donald Bane , ( Being already victor ) and changed the fortune of the day : And William indeed was created a Lord at Forfair , but we hear not that he was raised from a mean estate , or inriched by the Kings liberality ; wherefore we may justly think he had the same place in effect before , but under some other name , as of Thane , Abthane ; or some such title . The next point we propound to speak of is their Nobility . There is great contest among men , who should be most Noble ; but where will true Nobility be found so entire ? In what subjects race is it so full and perfect , according to all the acceptions , and significations thereof ? They define it to be a lifting or raising up above the vulgar : and what name , I pray , hath been so elcvated , and hath so transcended all other , as this of the Douglasses ? They adde this condition , that it be for true worth ; and hath there been any so worthy ? Those that will distinguish it into severall kinds , make five sorts of it ; 1 Nobility of vertue ; 2 of degrees ; 3 of Offices and Employment ; 4 of Birth and discent ; 5 Lastly of Fame and renown . 1. Of all these the first is the ground , without which the rest are never well built , and are but shadowes without the substance : virtus nobilitat , vertue doth ennoble , is a saying , which is no lesse true then ancient ; for it makes him in whom it doth reside , truely noble by its own power beyond all exception . It hath not the dependance on Kings or Princes to give or take it away : It is ever the self , whether exalted , or not exalted ; regarded , or neglected ; respected , or disrespected . Nay , it doth ever carry along with it such respect and regard , as no basenesse of place , of birth , of means or imployment , can stain or lessen ; making lownesse it self to overtop whatsoever is highest in the eyes of the world . It addes honour to whatsoever place , majestie to whatsoever estate , sufficiencie to whatsoever means , splendour to whatsoever obscurity : which no contempt of tongues , no detracting speeches , no dis-esteem of presuming pride , is able to impair or darken . Where honour and vertue do meet , there honour is an externall addition and confirmation of the inward testimony in the mind of the vertuous : but where vertue is wanting , outward honours are but false ensignes , lying inscriptions of empty boxes . That this name was vertuonsly noble , and noblie vertuous , the deduction of their lives will sufficiently show . 2. As for the second , Nobility of Degrees , of Dignities and Titles given by Kings and Princes ; such as are these of Knights , Barons , Lords , Earles , Dukes , &c. all these they had conferred upon them both at home and in forraign Countries . This kind of Nobility is in account amongst men ; because although oftentimes it proceeds meerely from the Princes favour upon small or no desert , yet it is supposed to be grounded upon vertue , or that it should alwayes be grounded thereon : Now in the Douglasses it was ever so , for they were never greater then they deserved : and whatever titles of honour they had , were rather thrust upon them , then ambitiously sought and hunted after : Nay , we reade of grimme Archibald , that he rejected and refused the title of Duke . 3. The third sort is very like and near unto this , if it be not a part of it consisting in publike offices and imployment either in peace or war , such as to be Wardens of the Marches , Lievetenants , Governours , Leaders , and Conductors of armies : This was almost proper , and ( in a manner ) hereditary to the house , in which places also they so behaved themselves , that for their good services done to the King , and Countrey , their Family and Posterity do enjoy ( at this houre ) many priviledges and immunities granted to them in their Charters , such as 1. Regalities , ( and exemptions thereby . ) 2. The first place and vote in Parliament , Counsell , or meeting , and convention of the States . 3. The leading of the vantguard in the day of battell : 4. And the bearing of the Crown at riding in Parliament . 4. The fourth is Nobilitie of bloud , and Descent . This some doe place only in the descent of the right line masculine without interruption , and esteem him most Noble , whose extraction proceedeth from most of this kinde . Others againe will have it to be on both sides ; and certainly it seemes to stand with reason that both should be regarded , seeing every ground is not 〈◊〉 for Noble seed , and every stock will not serve to ingraffe a generous imp . However , we shall finde the Douglasses Noble also in this way , in their descent on both sides , in their affinitie and alliance , being come of Kings , and Kings of them : and first of all King Robert Bruce and William the Hardie ( or Long legge ) were of kin by the house of Carrick . For Martha Countesse of Carrick and this William wore Cousin Germans , his mother having beene sister to her father the Earle of Carrick that died in Syria . Now Martha was mother to King Robert , and hereby King Robert and Good Sir James were Cousin Germans once removed . But this was ere Bruce was King , while he was yet but a private man. 2. Secondly therefore , Robert Stuart ( the first of the Stuarts that was King , and who was grandchilde to Robert Bruce ) gave his eldest daughter in marriage to Earle James , slain at Otterburne . 3. The same King Robert gave another of his daughters to William Lord of Nithisdale . 4. The Duke of Rothsay , Prince of Scotland ( son to King Robert the third ) married Marjorie daughter to Archbald the Grim. 5. Archbald ( the third of that name , and first Duke of Turaine ) had to wife Margaret Stuart daughter to the same King Robert ( the third ) as the black booke of Scoone expresly witnesseth , which calls him , Gener Regis , the Kings son-in-law . Ballandine ( the Translatour of Boetius ) calls him the Kings Mengh , or Allie , and king James the second claimeth Stuarton from James the last Earle of Douglas in the conditions of peace sent to him . Now Stuarton is knowne to have been the proper inheritance of Iohn Stuart , and after him of Walter , then of Robert ( the first king of the Stuarts ) and so of Robert the third , which ( in all likelihood ) he hath given with his daughter ( as her dowrie ) to this Archbald . 6. Also Iohn Earle of Buchan ( the kings brothers son ) married a daughter of this Archbald , whom he hath had apparently by some other wife . 7. Then Alexander , son to the Earle of Buchan , married Isabel Douglas Countesse of Marre , daughter to William the first Earle of Douglas . 8. William the first Earle married Margaret Stuart daughter to Thomas Earle of Angus , who was uncle to king Robert the second , and first king of the Stuarts . 9. George Douglas , son to the same William who was the first Earle of Angus of the name of Douglas , married Mary Stuart , daughter to king Robert the third , and sister to king Iames the first . 10. Iames Douglas Lord of Dalkeith married a daughter of king Iames the second . 11. Archbald brother to William the eighth Earle of Douglas married the inheritrix of Murray , who was Niece to king Robert the second , and so became Earle of Murray . 12. Archbald Earle of Angus , the second of that name , married Margaret Queen of Scotland , relict of king Iames the fourth , and eldest daughter to king Henry the seventh , sister to king Henry the eighth of England , and mother to king Iames the fifth of Scotland : by her he had Ladie Margaret Douglas . 13. Ladie Margaret Douglas , his daughter , was married to Matthew Stuart Earle of Lennox , who was also of the bloud Royall . 14. Henry Stuart Lord Darnely ( son to Lennox and Lady Margaret ) married Mary Queene of Scotland , onely daughter and heire to king Iames the fifth : She bare to him Iames the sixth of Scotland , and now happily the first king of Great Brittaine , France , and Ireland . And so much for Nobility in bloud and alliance . 5. The fift and last kinde of Nobilitie is that of fame and renowne . Those that take upon them to derive and deduce the Pedegree and Etymologie of words , doe thinke that this signification is most proper , as being chiefly implyed in the word Nobilis , quasi Notabilis ; so that those are said to be most Noble ▪ who are least obscure , who are most eminent and conspicuous in the eyes of the world , and most praised and blazed by Fame in their own and forraign Countries . This kinde of Nobilitie hath ever accompanied their vertue , as a shadow followes the bodie , and that both at home and abroad . And so we have done with their Nobility , which is the second point we propounded to be treated of . The third maine head to be considered , is their Greatnesse , concerning which in generall our Chronicles doe witnesse , that those of the name of Douglas , together with their Friends , Vassals , and Dependers , were able to make an Armie of thirty thousand , or fourty thousand men . This also doth argue their greatnesse , that it was thought an honour and credit to have dependance on them . Histories doe testifie that the Hamiltouns and Flemmings thought it no disparagement to follow them . Humes were their Pensioners and Vassals , even the chiefe houses of them . This is verified by a bond of a thousand nobles ( a great summe in those dayes ) made by Archbald Earle of Wigtoun , and Long Willie ( who was after his fathers death Earle of Douglas ) to Alexander Hume of Hume , dated at Bothwell 1423. The same Earle also ( for his father was Duke of Turaine ) gave the lands of Wedderburne to David Hume brother to the said Alexander ( propter multiplicia sua servitia ) for his many good services . This Charter of Wedderburne is anterior to the gift of Alexanders pension some eight or nine yeares , being dated in the yeare 1414. The Lawders of Basse , and Loganes of Rastarigge , were their Messengers into France , and other parts . Gray , Salton , Seaton , Oliphant , were their followers also . Neither could any man of ordinary pitch of power , have brought such aid to a forraign Prince , as this same Earle of Wigtoun transported over into France , ( five thousand , or as some say ten thousand ) which he levied and carried over at his owne proper cost , all brave and choice gentlemen . If for this he were rewarded with the Dutchie of Turaine , it was but the just recompence of his service , and no more then he deserved , and would but countervaile his charges . Wherefore I wonder with what indifferent judgement Du Serres ( Author of the French Inventarie ) doth grudge at it , and can call it mercenarie . Certainly the kings of France have thought it their due , or else they would not have continued it so long for five or six generations , that is , untill the Earles of Douglas were forfeited . Few subjects of forraigne Princes have beene so much respected , and so rewarded . It is also an evidence of their power and greatnesse , that Henry the sixth of England did contract and covenant with George the second ( Earle of Angus ) for his aid and assistance against Edward the fourth , and made an Indenture , wherein he promises to give him lands erected into a Dutchie , lying betwixt Humber and Trent . Edward the fourth made James the last Earle of Douglas Knight of the Garter , even when he was banished , so much did he honour and respect his name and vertue . So Henry the second of France made Archbald the second ( Earle of Angus ) one of the Order of Saint Michael , or the Cockle . Their magnificence and stately entertainment , and courage at home and abroad , doth likewise show their greatnesse . William the fourth of that name , and sixth Earle , being but a very young man , not above fourteen or fifteen yeares of age , bad for his ordinary train a thousand horse ; he dubbed Knights , had his Counsellours and Officers of State , like a Prince : and William the fifth was admired for his train and magnificence , as he passed through Flanders , France , and Italy , in his journey to Rome . Our Writers indeed blame him for it , and call it pride , ambition and ostentation in him : but however that be , It was an evident proofe of Greatnesse . The last and main point that we are to treat of is , their valour . Let their deeds and actions speak for this property . But to take a generall view of it : The common Epethite in the mouths of the common people hath appropriate unto them this vertue : who never speak of them , but with the addition of doughty , the doughty Douglas . And from hence indeed chiefly their greatnesse and honours did spring ; and we shall find none of them but were both skilfull commanders , and stout souldiers , being no lesse endowed with personall valour , then discretion and judgement to direct , and conduct . That brave matchlesse Romane ( Scipio Africanus ) when he was taxed for not hazarding his person , and fighting with his own hand , thought it enough to answer ( Imperatorem mater me peperit , non bellatorem ) My mother bare me a Commander , not a fighter : but our Douglases were both maximi Imperatores , nec minus strenui bellatores , wise Commandars , and hardy fighters and warriers ; they had both good heads , and good hearts and hands . In the beginning ere Rome came to its greatnesse , it is said of the first Captains ( Decorum erat tum ipsis ducibus capescere pugnam ) That it was no disparagement , but honourable for the Leaders themselves to sight with their own hand ; None were more ready and forward to fight then the Douglasses , onely Wallace is thought to have gone beyond any of them . But he is but one , and that singular and extraordinary , without any second , at least of his own name ; and our comparison stands between name and name , where the number is as well to be remembred as the worth . So many so valorous of one surname , is that which we have undertaken to prove . Besides , none of the Douglasses did ever encounter with Wallace to try who was the better man , and if we parrallell their actions done apart , what act o●… Wallace can be produced more admirable , then that of Archbald Tineman at the battell of Shrewsburie , where with his own hand he s●…ew Blunt the King of Englands Standard-bearer , and three more , who were apparelled like Kings , and at last unhorst the King himself , whom he had also stain , if he had not been rescued by his sonne Henry the fifth . In an English manuscript I have seen it thus expressed , And there with fiery courage he assails Three all as Kings adornd in royall wayes , And each successive after other quails , Still wondering whence so many Kings did rise : Till doubting , lest his hands or eye sight fails , With these confounded , on the fourth he flies , And him unhorses too , whom had he sped , He then all Kings in him had vanquished . For Henry had divided as it were The person of himself into foure parts , To be lesse known , and yet known every where . &c. It is written also of William Lord of Niddisdail , that he was exceeding both stout and strong , beyond any that lived in his dayes , so that whomsoever he strook but once with mace , sword , or speare , he needed never to double his stroke , eveblow carried death with it . Also James ( slaine at Otterburne ) his personall valour and strength is very highly extolled by the writers of these times , who besides that he had the better of Percie in their duell at Newcastle , he himselfe was the chiefe cause of the victorie that got the honour of the day at Otterburn ( where he lost himselfe , but wan the field ) by his own personall valour . They tell how he fought with a huge iron mace , that was heavier then any ordinary man of those dayes could weild , and more then two or three of such as now live . Qualia nunc hominum producit corpora tellus . We might adde unto these Archbald Bell the Cat ( Earle of Angus ) who in a duell with Spence cut off his thigh ( through bone and all ) at a blow , and divers others , as Archbald of Kilspindie , whom King James the fifth called alwayes his gray steel , for his valour and ability of body ; but these shall suffice here for a taste of their valour . But we will not content our selves with a generall and absolute commendation , we will also descend to the comparative , which we desire may be as farre from envie , as we hope it shall be found neere to truth . To begin then first at home , there is no subjects race in this Countrey that can match them in these of which we have spoken , Antiquity , Nobility , Greatnesse , and Valour or worth : in these ( I say ) joyntly : that is , there is none so Ancient , and withall so Noble , Great , and Valorous . No name is or ever was in this Countrey of which there can be reckoned so many and so worthy , for so stands our comp●…rison . The Grahames are very Ancient , ( in the dayes of Ferguse the second , anno 424. ) and very Noble , but have never attained to that degree of Greatnesse as the Douglasses have done . The Hayes also are a very old and honourable name ( in the reigne of Kenneth the third , anno 976. ) but not so anci●…nt as our Douglasses by two hundred yeares , for they began in the reigne of Solvathius anno 767. These two ( Hayes and Douglasses ) doe agree in this , that they are ( as the Grahames also are ) naturall Scots borne ; but there is great odds betweene them other wayes : For the Hayes have not reached to that pitch of greatnesse either in degree or estimation , and account of men by many stages , as the Douglasses have attained . Other names which now are great , are nothing so ancient , and besides are come from other Countreyes , such as Hammilto●… ▪ Gordons , Campbels : The Campbels from France , and the other two out of England . The Hammiltouns came in King Robert Bruces time , the Gordons in Mackolme Kenmores . The Murrayes are more ancient , and before all these , yet they are strangers , and not of the first bloud of the Scots , and there was but one of them great and remarkable , who was Governour of Scotland ; few or none Nobilitated till of late : but none of all those names comes neere that number of Nobles and Worthies ( by lineall or laterall descent ) and as it were of hereditarie vertuous succession and race of men , which we finde of the Douglasses . There have beene some great and worthy of other names , but if they enter into comparison , they will be found ( rari nantes in gurgite vasto ) but few , one or two eminent of a name , or of the chiefe house : it will also appeare that their honours ( most of them ) have flowed more from their Princes favour , then their owne great deserving , or great service against the enemie . The Cummins were the most numbrous and powerfull of any that ever were in Scotland before or since ( as some of our Writers say ) yet their greatnesse hath rather beene in lands and possessions , or friends , then in deeds of armes , and prowesse of Chivalrie , having done little or nothing of note , and worthy of renowne . John Cummin indeed fought three battels at Roseline in one day against the English , in which we finde nothing reported of his personall valour : whereas the Douglasses did ever shew themselves in person to be singularly valorous . Besides , he was but one man , the rest are buried in silence , and there is nothing to be found of them all ( though all their actions were put together ) that deserves to be compared with the deeds of any one man amongst many of the Douglasses . Moreover , as there was no great action in them , they were scarce good Patriots , using their power to the disadvantage of their Countrey , and the opposing of the Liberties thereof , in King Robert Bruces dayes , rather then for the good and standing of the Kingdome , which the Douglasses did ever . We finde also that they were not very carefull to keepe their promises , and thought the breach of their words and faith ( so it were for their advantage ) a point of good wisedome and policy , a foule and base quality , and , which is ever incident to meane and base spirits , being directly opposite to true generositie and magnanimity , which is the sountaine and well-spring of upright dealing and truth in word and action , which were ever found in our noble Douglasses . For other Countreys , to begin with our nearest neighbours of England , the most renowned name for deeds of armes amongst them , is that of the Percies of Northumberland , betweene whom and the Douglasses there hath ever beene a noble and generous emulation with various successe , but for the most part to the Douglasses advantage ; so that we may say ( Contendisse Decorum ) of the Percies . But they come farre short of that number of worthies , that we have in ours . Besides the Percies have not been so loyall Subjects , having often taken armes against their lawfull Princes , and being guilty of divers rebellions , plots , conspiracies , according to which Sir Josseline Percie said merrily of the powder treason , that it had not been a right treason , unlesse a Pereie had had a hand in it . But to go higher , even to the Mistresse and Empresse of the world , Rome it self : the Fabii and Cornelii were the most numerous families , and out of these two houses proceeded more Commanders , and brave Captains , then out of any that I have read , or can remember of amongst them . Now the first mention that we have of them is where they are both named , in the yeare 267. from the building of Rome , twenty years after the banishing of their King Tarquinius ; at which time Quintus Fabius , and Servius Cornelius , were Consuls together : from that time till Quintus Fabius Consul in theyeare 740. for the space of 437. years , we finde of the Fabii about some 24. persons that were Consuls , Tribunes , Decemviri , Dictatours , Generalls , and Leaders of Armies ; but for their valour or prowesse , personall courage , or proper worth , the three first are onely famous , Q. Fabius , M. Fabius and Caeso Fabius . These three being brothers , and Marcus Fabius being Consul , fought against the Hetrusci ( in the year 269. ) and Q. Fabius being slaine , Marcus and Caeso having incouraged the armie ( that was discouraged by the death of their brother Quintus ) leaping over the dead corps of their brother , assaulted the enemy in their owne persons , and by their valour and example staied their men from flying , restored the battle , and at last obtained the victorie : we reade also of one Ambustus Fabius , whose 3. sons were sent in an ambassage to the Gauls to request thē not to trouble the Clusinii ( in the yeare , 364. 63. ) These three when they could not prevail , nor perswade them to desist from invading the Clusinii did joyn with the Clusinii against the Gauls , in which conflict Quintus Fabius ( one of Ambustus three sons ) slew with his own hands in sight of both armies the Captain of the Gauls , and carried away his spoil : But he quickly stained that honour , he and his two brothers , by their misgovernment at the battell of Allia against the same Gauls , where they fled shamefully without striking a stroke , and by their misguiding gave occasion to the sacking of Rome . The last is Fabius the Dictatour , who fought against Hanniball , famous for his conduct , but not so for any personall valour . So the Cornelii from the same 267. untill 734. when P. Scipio was Consul , 736. when Lentulus was reckoning both these Cornelians , with the house of Africane the younger ( a Cornelian by adoption , but an Emiliane borne ) they are about three and thirty persons in these 167. years , who were in great place Consuls , Dictatours and the like , as the Fabii : some of them were also famous for their conduct in warre , having been brave Leaders , and Generalls of armies ( as the two Africanes , their brother Lucius , their father and their uncle Publius , and Cneus ) but for personall valour there are not many eminent , Onely Aulus Cornelius Cossus , who slew Tolumnius King of the Veiens , and Africane the first ( if it were he ) who rescued his father at the battell of are remarked for their personall vallour . Now neither of these two families doth equall the Douglasses ; who in fewer years , viz. from the 1309. untill 1588. about 300. yeares , brought forth 27. persons , all singular for their valour , and some of them far beyond any of these , as may be seen . This advantage these Romanes had , that living in the continent of Italy , and in a Common wealth which did so flourish , and was so great , their actions and decds were more conspicuous , being acted in a more large and ample theatre , then those of our men , who were pent up in a narrow and obscure corner of an Island ; and had neither the Carthaginians nor Hanniball to fight against , whose overthrow would have given a greater splendour to their actions . And moreover they have had good Heraulds to sound their prayses aloud , and trumpet them abroad in the world , when as ours Omnes occiderunt illacrimabiles , caruere quia vate sacro . And yet even by this which we have been able to collect of them , our proposition will appear to be sufficiently proved ; with which as we began , so will we conclude : So many so good , &c. in the world , were never seen of one name and family . Touching which assertion , I will earnestly intreat this favour of the courteous Reader , that he would be pleased to consider what hath been said in an even ballance and indifferent judgement , setting aside all prejudice and pre-conceived opinion of any worth in any Nation ; and if he do not approve of our conclusion , and assent to it , let him calmely and modestly impart his reasons , and he shall finde me one that shall be most willing and ready to retract what hath been said , and to give place to the truth , if I be not able to satisfie him in reason . For my own part , I protest I speake as I think , and no more then I think ; according to my reading and knowledge of men , and according to the measure of my judgement and understanding , without prejudice of any , who upon more knowledge and out of better judgement , shall find things to be otherwise then I have thought . In the mean time we will set down here , what we have said of them else where , speaking to King James at his return into Scotland out of England , in the yeare , 1617. Atque haec inter tot diademata celsa , corollam Annumerare tuis titulis fas ducis , & unum Privatam ( verum magnis à regibus ortam , Regibus affinem magnis regumque gerentem , Sepe vicem , bellique domique & quod satis unum est , Gignentem Celsum generoso semine regem , Regem , quo tellus majorem non videt , unus Qui terna imperii tractas sceptra alma Britanni ) Duglasiam , Angusiamque domum virtute secundam Haud ulli quas prisca aut Roma , aut Graecia jactat Seu numero heroum , seu robore mentis & armis , Sive fide in patriam ; sceptrorum ut millia sceptris Accumulesque tuis , numeresque in stemmate reges Latus quotcunque orbis habet : non ultima laus haec Duglasius etiam duxisse haeroibus ortum . And thou hast thought it not unfit to set Amongst thy many Crowns this Coronet ; A private family , and yet they be Deriv'd from Kings , and often did supply The place of absent Kings in warre and peace , And what may be esteem'd a greater grace , That from their loyns thy Royall self did spring Thy self , then whom earth sees no greater King. You Brittains threefold Scepter justly weeld , Douglas nor Angus will to no house yeeld , Nor the most fam'd of Greece , or ancient Rome , For numbers of brave men , nor are o'recome In strength of mind , or armes , or faithfull love To their dear Countrey : should your state improve , And you injoy a thousand Scepters more , And draw your stock from all the numerous store Of Kings the whole world holds , it would not be Thy least praise , that a Douglas lives in thee . THE HISTORY OF THE HOVSE and RACE of DOUGLAS and ANGUS . Of SHOLTO DOUGLAS the first that bare the name of DOUGLAS , and of whom all that beare that name are descended . TOuching the original of this illustrious Family and Name of Douglas , we must not looke for an exact and infallible demonstration ; things of this nature are not capable of it . Great Antiquity is commonly accompanied with much incertainty , and the originalls even of Cities , Countries and Nations , are grounded ( for the most part ) upon no surer foundation , then conjecturall proofs , whose beginnings are more easily known , and better remembred then those of private families . In such cases we use to take that for truth which comes neerest to it amongst diverse narrations ; and must rest on that which is most probable and apparent . Quis rem tam veterem pro certo affirmet ? sayes the Historian in a matter not unlike . And we will say with the same Authour , Cura non deesset , si qua ad verum via inquirentem ferret : nunc famae standum est , ubi certam derogat vetustas fidem . The beginning of our Nation , yea of both Nations ( Scots and English ) such as they now are , or of those that were before ( Picts and Brittans ) is not yet sufficiently cleared : neither is it as yet fully known from what people they are sprung , or how they got their name of Scots , English , Picts & Britans ; although the learned have bestowed their pains , andimploied their pens on this subject , to the wearying , but not satisfying of the Reader . As for Scotland , M r Cambden grants so much , and mocks those that have laboured in it : yet hath he himself bestowed his time and pains to as small purpose in behalf of his countrey-men the Brittans : Neither hath he done any thing , save that by his fruitles attempt ( notwithstanding all his bragging ) he hath made it appear , that to go about it is but to labour in vain ; he himself ( after all his travell ) remaining no lesse Sceptick , ( and to use his own words ) Scotizing , then others . And even Rome it self ( the mistresse of the world ) though the noon-tide of her Empire be clear and bright , like the Sunne in her strength , yet how misty is the morning and dawning thereof . Darknesse triumphs over the reigns and triumphs of her first kings ; which are covered over with such uncertain obscuritie , or rather drowned in so profound and deep night of darknesse , that all her children ( though they have beaten their brains , and spent much lamp-oyl in searching of it ) could never clear their mothers nativity , or vindicate their father Romulus birth from the fable of the incestuous vestall , nor his nursing from being beholding to a she Wolf. Detur haec venia Antiquitati , ut miscendo humana divinis primordia urbium augustiora faciat . If he had said , that Writers must have leave to be obscure or uncertain in setting down the originall of Cities , it could not well have been denied him ; but for men to invent , and to thrust their intentions upon others to be beleeved , because they know not what else to say Detur haec venia nobis , to beleeve no more then is probable . Neither will that serve his turn , Jam hoc gentes humanae patiantur aequo animo , ut imperium patiuntur . They may command our bodies , who cannot command our soules , or our belief ; and now we have shaken off the yoake of the one , and so we do reject the other . There is no lesse uncertainty in Plutarches Theseus and Numa . Wherefore we must be contented in the originall of a private family with what others are forced to content themselves in the beginnings of Cities , Nations , Kingdomes , and Empires ; which are like to some rivers , whose streams and outlets are known , but their springs cannot be found out , as they report of Nilus . Yet this our Narration doth better deserve credit , then those of Romulus , Numa , Theseus , &c. seeing it contains nothing that is impossible , nothing that is fabulous or incredible : for here are neither gods for their fathers , nor ravening beasts their nurses . And albeit that the Chronicle of our Countrie now extant makes no mention of their beginning , yet what we find there doth rather confirm then confute our deduction thereof . And indeed it is no wonder that they are silent in this point ; If we consider how Edward the first of England ( surnamed Longshanks ) whom his countrey men terme ( Scotorum malleus ) the hammer of the Scots , because that he deceiving the trust , and abusing the power of Arbitratour which was given him to decide the right to the Crown of Scotland between Bruce & Balioll , did so handle the matter , that setting the together by the ears , after they had well beaten and battered each other , he himself fell upon them both , and so hammered and bruised them , that he did thereby over-run all the low and plain champion Countrey . If we then consider , I say , how he had to make the Scots malleable and pliable to his unlimited ambition , after he had thus cut off the flowre of the Scottish Nobility , destroyed also all the lawes of the realm , both civil and ecclesiasticall , burnt the publike Registers , together with private Monuments , Evidents , Charters , and Rights of lands ; we shall have greater cause to wonder : that any thing escaped so powerfull a King , intending the full conquest of the Countrey ; and who had so jealous an eye over any thing that might encourage his new vassals to rebells , then that we have no more left us . Nay although he had not done this of set purpose , and with intention to root out all memorialls of Nobility out of the minds of the Scots , and to embase their spirits , by concealing from them their descent and qualities ; yet even the common chance and accidents of war were enough to excuse this defect : for the Lord Douglas lands lying in the south parts of Scotland , hard upon the borders of England , this calamity did chiefly afflict him , so that his houses were burnt , his castles razed , himself taken prisoner , and so all monuments of his originall lost or destroyed . Let us remember also , besides all this , the quality and condition of those times , in which there was great scarsity of Writers , and learned men able to preserve the memory of things by their pens , all being set on war , unlesse it were some few cloystred Monks and Friers , who were both carelesse and illiterate droans . Notwithstanding all this , as no destruction is so generall , and so far spread , but something doth escape the fury of it ; and though all monuments had been defaced , yet some men being preserved , what was written in their minds and memories remaining unblotted out , they remembred what they had heard from their predecessours , and delivered it to posterity from age to age . By which means we have ( as it were ) some boords or planks preserved out of this shipwrack , which may perhaps keep us from being lost in this deepth of Antiquity , if it do not bring us safe to land . According then to the constant and generall tradition of men , thus was their originall . During the reigne of Solvathius King of Scotland , one Donald Bane ( that is , Donald the white , or fair ) having possest himself of all the western Ilands ( called Ebudes , or Hebrides ) and intitling himself King thereof , aspired to set the crown of Scotland also upon his head . For effectuating whereof , he gathered a great army ; wherein he confided so much , that he set foot on the nearest continent of Scotland , to wit , the province of Kintyre and Lorne . The Kings Lievetenants Duchal and Culen , governours of Athole and Argyle make head against him with such forces as they could assemble on the sudden . Donald trusting to the number of his men did bid them battell , and so prevailed at first , that he made the Kings army to give ground , and had now almost gained the day , and withall the Kingdome , that lay at stake both in his own conceit , and the estimation of his enemies . In the mean time a certain Noble man , disdaining to see so bad a cause have so good successe , out of his love to his Prince , and desire of honour , accompanied with his sons and followers , made an onset upon these prevailing rebels with such courage and resolution , that he brought them to a stand ; and then heartning the discouraged fliers both by word and example , he turnes the chace , and in stead of victory they got a defeat ; for Donalds men being overthrown and fled , he himself was slain . This fact was so much the more noted , as the danger had been great , and the victory unexpected . Therefore the King being desirous to know of his Lievetenants the particulars of the fight , and inquiring for the Author of so valiant an act , the Nobleman being there in person , answer was made unto the King in the Irish tongue ( which was then onely in use ) Sholto Du glasse , that is to say , Behold yonder black , gray man , pointing at him with the finger , and designing him by his colour and complexion , without more ceremony or addition of titles of honour . The King considering his service and merits in preserving his Crowne , and delighted with that homely designation , rewarded him royally with many great Lands , and imposed upon himselfe the name of Douglas , which hath continued with his posterity untill this day . And from him the Shire and County vvhich he got , is called stil Douglasdale , the River that vvatereth it , Douglas River , the Castle which he built therein , Douglasse castle . This narration , besides that it is generally received , and continued as a truth delivered from hand to hand , is also confirmed by a certain manuscript of great antiquity , extant in our dayes in the hands of one Alexander Mackduffe of Tillysaul , who dwelt at Moore alehouse near Straboguie . There ( at his dwelling house ) William Earle of Angus ( who died at Paris 1616 ) being confined to the North ( in the year 1595 ) did see and peruse it . Neither doth this relation crosse or disagree with any thing set down in our Histories : for although they do not mention this man , nor his fact , yet they all speak of this usurper , and of his attempt and overthrow in the dayes of Solvathius ( about the year 767. ) Hollinshed and Beetius affirm , that this Donald was Captain or Governour of the Isle of Tyre . Some do call him Bane mack Donalde , but Buchana●… calleth him expressely Donaldus Banus , an easie errour in so great affinity of name . There is another of the same name called likewise Donald Bane , who did also usurp the title of the Kingdome , and was in like manner defeated in the reigne of King Edgar ( in the year 1000 ) but that being 333. years after this , and not much lesse after the Emperour Charles Le maigne , in whose time they had now propagated and spread themselves in Italy ( as shall be shewed anone ) It cannot agree either with this History of our Sholto , or with that Donald whom he defeated ; this last seeming to be rightlier named Mack Donald , as descended , and come of the former , who was Donalde : wherefore there is nothing here either fabulous , or monstrous ; nothing incredible or contrary to it self or to reason ; but all things very harmoniously answering one unto another ; our tradition with the manuscript , and both of these agreeing with our owne and forreign Histories . And thus concerning Sholto Douglas the root , and originall of the name and family . Of Hugh Douglas , sonne to Sholto : And first of the name of Hugh . TO Sholto succeeded his son Hugh , of whom we have nothing to write , but that he assisted his father at the overthrow of Donald Bane the usurper , there being nothing else recorded of him . Of his son Hugh the second . UNto the former Hugh did succeed his eldest son named also Hugh : for he had two sons , Hugh and William . Hugh the elder lived at home in his native countrey as a Noble man , borne to a great inheritance , whose actions by the iniquitie of time are buried in silence , and therefore we will insist no longer thereon . His younger brother William ( as is the custome of younger brothers ) went abroad into forraine Countreys to seek adventures of armes , if so he might make himselfe a fortune that way . Of him therefore we will speake next . Of William Douglas father of the honourable familie of the SCOTI in Italy . THis William was son to the first Hugh , and grandchilde to Sholto , younger brother to the second Hugh : he it is that was father to the noble familie of the Scoti in Placenza in Italy , which fell out thus , as it is related by the Italian Historians , agreeing with ours . Achaius king of Scotland having succeeded to Solvathius , did enter into league with Charlemaigne , which league hath continued betwixt the Scots and French without breach on either side ever since untill these our dayes ; whereupon when the Emperour Charles went into Italy to represse the insolencies of Desiderius King of the Lombards committed against the Sea of Rome , Achaius as his confederate did send him foure thousand choice men under the conduct of his brother William , a pious and valarous young Prince . Amongst other of his Captains that went with him , this William Douglas was one of the chief , and had the leading of the men of armes . The Emperour having restored Pope Leo the third to the dignity of his Seat , as he returned through Tuscanie , amongst other his notable acts , he restored also the Commonwealth of Florence to their former libertie ; in which exploit the valour and actions of the Scottish Prince William were much remarked : the Florentines to shew their thankfulnesse to the Emperour took to their Armes the Red Lillie , a part of the French Armes , the colour only being changed : And in memorie of the valour of Prince William they did institute publike playes yearely , in which they crowned a Lion with great ceremonie and pomp , ordaining also that certain Lions should be kept upon the charges of the common Thesaurarie , because William had a Lion for his Armes , which is also the Armes of the Kings of Scotland . They have also a prophesie in Florence , which saith , While crowned Lions live in Florence field , To forraine Armes their State shall never yeeld . This Prince William , brother to Achaius King of Scotland , passed into Germanie , and gave himselfe wholly to the warres , where for his service by his sword , having obtained large Territories , he led a single life all his dayes , and thinking to make Christ his heire , he founded and doted fifteen Abbacies for those of the Scottish Nation . It is he ( saith Major ) who is named in songs made of him , Scottish Gilmore . Now while as the Emperour and Prince William were in their returne from Italy towards France , William Douglas in his voyage through Plaisance did fall into a heavie disease , and not being able to go along with the Emperour , stayed at Plaisance till he recovered his health . And then considering the toile and danger of so long a journey , as it would be into his own Countrey , he resolved rather to remain there , then to hazzard his person any more , which such travell would have greatly endangered : wherefore to gain the good will of the Citizens of Plaisance , and to strengthen himselfe ( being a stranger ) by a good alliance , he took to wife a daughter of Antonio Sp●…no , one of the most eminent and honourable houses in that Citie : by her he had many children , of whom are descended those of the most noble Familie of the Scoti , who are so called by reason of this William , their Ancestour , who was a Scottishman , the name of his Country being better knowne , and more remarkable , then either his own proper name , or the name of his Familie . This originall of the Scoti in Plaisance is collected and confirmed , 1. by the testimonie of the Italian Writers ; 2. by the tree and genealogie of that familie ; 3. and by their Coat of Arms which they give , being the same with the ancient Coat of the Douglasses , with some difference . 1 Touching our Authors , they are such as have written the Historie of Plaisance , which is followed forth by Umbertus Locatus , and Franciscus Sansovinus . This last ( Sansovinus ) in the first book of his Historie , De primo origine delle case illustri d' Italia , writeth thus : Quando Carolo Magno fece l' Impresa in Italia contra Desiderio Re de Longobardi ( l' anno 779 ) hebbe per suo Conduttiere di huomini di armi un Gulielmo Scozzese della Familia di Conti di Duglasi , &c. as we have set down before . Onely he calls it the 779 year , which 〈◊〉 Writers call 800 , or 801. There he showes how this House was illustrious from the very first beginning thereof : And for their rank they held in that Citie , he declares that it was one of the foure Families which did distribute the Offices of the City , which were these ; Scotta , Landra , Anguiscola , Fontona . And they grew at last so numerous , and so famous both for Letters and Armes , that having purchased many Rents , and great Lands and Territories , together with many Friends and Alliance , they acquired the Soveraignty of that Citie , and became absolute Lords and Princes thereof . So that from them when they were Princes of Plaisance did spring the Counts or Earles of 1 Vegelino , 2 Agazano , 3 and Sarmetti . They have beene allied with the chiefe Families in those Provinces , the 1 Rangoni , 2 Fieshi , 3 Ressi , 4 Pallavicini , 5 Lodroni , 6 Strozzi , 7 Conti d' Arco : and the like . Then he reckons divers particular persons , and namely ( which doth serve to confirme this deduction ) Donatus Scotio Bishop of Bobio , ( who lived in the yeare 846 , or 48. who built a Monasterie without the walls of Plaisance , which he dedicated to the memory and honour of Saint Bride ( Patronesse of Douglas ) in remembrance that hee was a Douglas , as is probable . He built also a Church within the walls , which he gave to the Friers of the Monasterie of Bobio , who were of Saint Colme ( or Columbanus ) Order , who was Abbot of Icolm●…kill an Island amongst the Scottish Hebrides . And this he did ( saith Sansovino ) Non solamente per l' amor de Dio , ma anchora perche San Columbano fu di Hibernia Isola de Scotia : Not onely for the love of God , but because Saint Colme ( or Columbanus ) was of Ireland , an Island of Scotland , so he thought being a forreigner , being the Scots and Irish are mutually descended each of other . Then comming to speak of their worth and valour , he reckons up above six and twenty persons who were ever valorous in whatsoever fortune good or bad , and have been in great employments continually for the space of two hundred eighty five yeares together , under the Emperour Henry the fourth , Charles the fourth , and Sigismund : Also under John King of Bohemia , and Duke John Maria , in divers places , at Pavie , Candie , in Cyprus , in Albania , Famagusta , at the Isle of Thin against the Turks , in all which services they behaved themselves valarously , and discharged their places with credit and honour . There were some also famous for learning , as Christophero Doctor of the Lawes , and Bishop of Cavaillon ( in Provence of France ) and Fiderico an excellent Jurisconsult , and who hath written learnedly . At last he relates how they were overthrown by the Duke of Millain , who besieged Alberto Vochio , the elder , and forced him to render upon composition , by which he gave divers Castles , Lands , and Territories , and divers Jurisdictions , with a competent estate and means . And here he reckons up above ten or twelve Castles which they still possesse , all famous and honourable , with the greatest priviledges that can be . 2. As for the Tree and Genealogie of these Scoti , in it we have first this our 1 William Douglas , 2 then David , 3 Lanfrancus , who had foure sonnes , 1 Johannes , 2 Raynaldus , 3 Ruffinus , 4 Rollandus . Johannes had Alber●…s , who begat foure sons ; 1 Petrus , of whom we finde no succession ; 2 Nicholaus , of whom are descended the houses of Fombii , Guardamilii , and Cassaligii ; 3 Franciscus , or Francus , of whom are the Counts of Volgolino , Angazano , and Sarmetto , and those of Gragnani ; 4 Jacobus , father of the Familie of the Castri sti Johannis . Lanfrancus second son Raynaldus was Progenitor to the Gravahi and Varsii . 3 Ruffinus his third son was Author of the Momaghi , Magnani , & domorum del Boscho . 4 Of Rollandus his fourth son are descended the Passano , and Aygveriae . These , with their off-spring , have multiplied and spread themselves into divers parts of Italie . Also they are found in the Marquisate of Salluce in France , in Guienne , and about Bourdeaux , where they are knowne by the names of Honglas , having corrupted the originall name , as strangers are wont to doe . There are also of these Scoti in the towne of Antwerp in Brabant , amongst which Petrus and Cornelius Scoti , inhabitants and merchants there of the best sort , who being lately challenged and interrupted by the Magistrates thereof , for presuming to set up the Douglasses Armes upon the tombs of their fathers , did send over into Scotland , in the yeare 1619. a messenger of purpose ( Alexander Seaton by name ) with their severall letters signed with the names of Scoti , alias Douglassi , directed unto the Right Honourable William Earle of Angus , Lord Douglas , &c. acknowledging their descent from his House , and intreating his Honours testimoniall thereupon . Upon which request , the said Earle having examined the matter by his Evidents , and other Records , found their claime to be just and right , was moved to send them by the same messenger an authentick Patent of their Pedegree under the broad Seale of Scotland , as likewise under the hands and several seales of William Earle of Angus , William Earl of Morton , dated the 16. day of March 1621. In which patent the said Petrus and Cornelius extraction from this William father of the Scoti , and grandchild to Sholto , is deduced particularly , as may be seen in the publike Register of Scotland . 3. As for the ancient armes of the house of Douglas , they were three mullets ( or starres ) onely in a field azure , untill good Sir James did adde the crowned Hart , because King Robert Bruce did concredit to him the carrying of his heart , and burying of it at Jerusalem . The Italian Douglasses ( or Scoti ) having come off before him , kept the field coat unaltered , as may be seen in their Tombes and other Monuments : for in Plaisance , in Saint Lawrence Church , where there are above twelve severall Monuments and Tombes of that Family ( it being their buriall place ) whereof some are of marble , surrounded with iron grates , there is an ancient Monument of a noble Lady near unto the high altar , bearing these three mullets , with this inscription , Margareta Scota Contessa de Burla : but now the Italian Douglasses , or Scoti , give but two mullets , and between two they have drawn a beam argent , which begins at the right hand , and ends at the left . The reason of this difference is given in this letter sent by the Conte de Agazano to this present Earle of Angus , which we wil set down in his own words and language , as he sent it written , and signed with his owne hand , and sealed with his seal . Ill mo Sigr mio Ess mo , QUando ●…o hebbi l' honore de vedere in Orleans vuestra illustrissima signoria gli promessi fargli havere l' Arbore de la famiglia Scota de Piacenza discesa d' illustrissima casa di Douglas . Ma perche non ho fin 〈◊〉 havuto comodita sicura di mandarlo , non ho pagato primo questo debito . 〈◊〉 dunque con l' occasione di un gentil . huomo , mio amico , qui passa in Inghilterra non ho voluto tardare piu a mandarle come faccio detto arbore o Genca loigia ; pregando vs ill ma honorarmi , come mi promisse dell ' arbore de la casa . Douglas in Scotia , almeno quella parte che la rigidezza di tempi passati di guerri in quel regno havera permesso di poter conservare la memoria , et io gli ne restero obligatissimo . L' arma antiqua di Scoti en Piaienza era conforme a L' antiche de Douglasso , come se vedo in ditta citta ne la chiesa de santo 〈◊〉 , Ma al tempo che Ghelfi , & Ghibellini guerregiavano in Italia : Li Scoti come partiali di Francesi furon elletti capi di Gelphi in Piabenza . Et perche tutte le cose d' numero non paro si intendevano Ghibellini , furono donque necessitati di rendere il numero delle tre stelle o vero a quattro o vero a due . Ma giudacando che accrescerne non conveniva : Si resolvettero Levarne un●… , a la piazza della quale per memoria missero . La sbarra bianca che commiciando de le parte destra va a finire a la sinistra , che si la sbarra comminciasse a la sinistra , & finisse a la destra , saria Ghibellini . Il champo che solea essere rizo fu d' Arrigo. 4. Imperatore dato insieme col Cimere d' un Pellicano , il Cimere a quei Scoti soli che le Portano di presente , & il campo a tutta la familia generallmente . Ho giudicato bene fare questa poca digressione , accio vs Ill am hebbi qualche notitia perche su seguita la mutatione . Mi sara caro ch' ella si compiaccia screvermi la ricevuta di detta Arbore , all arma del quale manca la corona sopra , che ci deve essere in loco del cimere . Et volendo mi honorare di suc lettere , in viandore all Illustrissimo & Ess mo S r Duca di Nevers mio capitano sicure , & io ne tenero obligo particulare a vs ill ma ; a la quale per fine , insieme con Li Signori suoi fratelli , & figlioli bacio le mani , conpiegarle da N. S. ogni prosperita ▪ Di Paris le 8. Maggio . 1622. Di vs ill ma Devotissimo Servit re & parente Il Conte Marc Antonio Scoto d' Agazano My honourable Lord , William Douglas . WHen I had the honour to see you at Orleans , I promised to send you the Tree of the Family of the Scoti of Plaisance ; which is descended of the illustrious house of Douglas : But because I have not hitherto had a convenient opportunity of sending it safely , I have not yet paid this debt : Now therefore having found the occasion of this Gentleman my friend ▪ who was to go into England I would delay no longer to send , the Tree or Genealogie : which I have done , beseeching your Lordship as you promised me to honour me with the Tree of the house of Douglas in Scotland ; at least , so much of it as the iniquitie of times past , and the wars in that kingdome have suffered to remain undefaced , and undestroyed , and I shall rest your Lordships obliged for this favour . The old armes of the Scoti in Plaisance , were conformed to the old armes of the Douglas , as may be seen in the foresaid Citie , in the Church of Saint Lawrance . But when the Ghelfs , and Ghibellins did warre one against another in Italy , the Scoti as partners of the French , were chosen to be heads of the Ghelfs in Plaisance . And because all things of an odde or unequall number were taken for Ghibelline , they were constrained to change the number of three starres , into either foure or two . But esteeming that it was not fit to increase the number , they resolved to take one from them : in the place of which ( in memory of it ) they put a white or argent bar , which beginning at the right hand is drawn along , and ends at the left : for if it had begun at the left , and ended at the right hand , it had been Ghibelline . The field which was given by the Emperour Henry the fourth , together with a Pelican for the crest , which is the Crest of the Scoti onely , who carry it at this houre , and the field of the whole Family generally . I have thought good to make this short digression , that your Lordship might have some knowledge wherfore this change was made in our coat : your Lordship should do me a singular favour if you would be pleased to write unto me of the receit of this Tree , in the armes of which the Coronet is wanting , because the Crest is the place where it should be , and to honour me with your letters which you may send to my noble Captain the Duke of Nivers , and so they shall come safe to me ; for which favour I shall be particularly obliged to your Lordship . So kissing your Lordships hands , together with these of your brethren and children , I pray the Lord to blesse you with all happinesse and prosperity . Paris 8. May 1622. Your Lordships humble servant and Cousen , Mark Antonio Scoto Counte d' Agazano . This Tree was received by the Earle of Angus , who did also send to him the Tree of the house of Douglas . Now besides all this which we have said , the Evidents and Monuments , Charters and Writs of priviledge of their house , do witnesse the same : for in the priviledges granted to them by the Emperour Henry the fourth , and Sigismond , as also by Giovanni Maria Duke of Millain , the surname of Douglas is expresly inserted with the titles of Earles given to three severall persons of that house , first Francisco created Conte de vigolino ; Giovanni ( his brother ) Conte d' Agazano , by the said Duke , and to Alberto expressely intituled Conte de Douglas & Vigolino , by Sigismond the Emperour . Now after all this , I hope we may justly say with John Leslie Bishop of Rosse ; Unde certissimâ conjecturâ assequimur illam perantiquam familiam quibus ( Scoti cognomen ) confirmabit jam usus loquendi , Placentiae florentem ex nobilissimâ nostrorum Duglassiorum comitum prosapiâ oriundam fuisse : that the Scoti in Plaisance are come of the Douglasses in Scotland . And thus much for William the second , sonne to Hugh the first , and grandchilde to Sholto . Of William the first Lord , created Lord of Douglas at the Parliament of Forfaire . NOw to return home again to the Scotish Douglasses , we finde that King Malcolme Kenmore in a Parliament held at Forfair in Angus , in the yeare 1057. as the manuscript , Major and Buchanan have it , but according to Boetius , 1061. did create many Earles , Barons ( or Lords ) and Knights , amongst whom there is Gulielmus a Douglas , who was made a Barron : the words are these : Malcolmus Scotorum Rex 86 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 anno 1061. Inde Forfarum generale indixit Concilium , v●…lens ut 〈◊〉 quod antea non fuerat , aliarum more gentium à praedis suis cognomina caperent : quosdam vero etiam comites ( vulgo Earles ) quosdam 〈◊〉 ( vulg Lords ) alios Milites , aut Equites Auratos ( vulgo martiall Knights ) creavit Makduffum Fifae Thanum , Fifae Comitem , Patritium Dumbarum , Marchiarum comitem : alios quoque viros praestantes , Montethiae , Atholiae , Marriae , Cathanesiae , Rossiae , Angusiae , dixit comites . Johannem Soules , Davidem Dardier ab Abernethie , Simonem a Tueddell , Gulielmum a Douglas , Gillespium Cameron , Davidem Bri●…hen , Hugonem a Caldella , Barones , cum diversis aliis , Equites Auratos , perplures pauci vero Thani relicti . In English thus , Malcolme the 86t. King of Scots , being crowned at Scone in the year 1061 , conveened a Parliament at Forfaire , where , according to the custome of other Nations , he ordained that Noblemen should have their titles to be distinguished by their possessions , and lands , which had not been the custome of this Countrey in former times . And so he created some Countes or Earles , others Barons or Lords , and others Cavalliers or Martiall Knights : he made Mackdusfe Earle of Fife , who had been Thane of Fife ; Pàtrick Dumbarre , Earle of Marche : he made also others of the Nobility Earles of Monteeth , Athole , Marre , Murray Cathnes , Rosse , Anguse . John Souls , David Dardier of Abernethie , Simon of Tweddale , William of Douglas , Gilespie Cameron , David Briechen , Hugh of Calder , were made Barons or Lords : others more he knighted likewise a great many , so that few Thanes were left . This note of these very words were extracted out of the Register and Monuments of Icolmekill , and sent to George Buchanan , when he was in writing his history of Scotland ; whereof John Read , ( Buchanans servitour , and amanuensis ) having reserved a copy , did communicate it to diverse afterward . Now here this William being ranked amongst the Nobility , who were chosen out to receive these new honours , could be no mean man : but in all likelyhood , the chief and principall of that name ; and so the eldest descended of Sholto , and his sonne Hugh the first , and his grandchilde Hugh the second , by lineall succession . This is al we have of him , save that it is a received generall report and tradition , that his two sons , John and William , were Knights at the same Parliament , which is an argument that he hath been a man of good esteem , and eminent place . Of John , the second Lord of Douglas . WIlliam did leave behind him two sonnes , John and William , both Knights : The eldest was Sir John of Douglasburn , which is a parcell of ground and mannour lying betwixt Ettrick forrest , and Peebles . The other was William of Glendinning , which is about the upmost parts of West-Teviotdale neere to Ewesdale . Now whether this John did succeed to his father in the Lordship , as being his eldest son and heire , who was designed ( during his fathers life time onely ) by the title of Douglasburn , or whether he had an elder brother , and so both he and Sir William were but cadets of the house of Douglas , we cannot affirm : But thus much they say , that these two brothers were men of great power and authority , and very worthy and valiant gentlemen . They affirm also that Sir William of Glendinning had two sonnes , Alexander and William , of whom are descended those of Cressewall , Strabrock , Pompherston , Pittendrigh , and Calder-Cleer . Of William the second of that name , and third Lord of Douglas . WE have but little mention of this man , onely in a Charter granted to the town of Aire by King David , first sonne to King Malcolme Kenmore , he is inserted a witnesse without any other title or designation : Then Gulielmus de Douglas , William of Douglas . This Charter was given the 25. or 27. yeare of his Reigne , the yeare of God 1151. two yeares before his death , which was 1153. Of Archbald the fourth Lord of Douglas , and first of that name . THere is as little mention made of this Archbald , as of the former William : we find him onely inserted witnesse in a second Charter granted to the town of Aire , by Alexander the second sonne to King William , in the 22. of his reigne , and of our redemption , 1236. Of the third William , and fifth Lord of Douglas , maker of the Indenture with the Lord Abernethie . THis VVilliam is found in an Indenture made betwixt him , and the Lord Abernethie , which the Earles of Angus have yet extant , amongst their other evidents and rights of their lands . The date of this Indenture is on Palmesunday , in the yeare 1259. . in the reigne of Alexander the third : the place , the Castle of Edinburgh : It is a contract of marriage , in which the father called there VVilliam Lord Douglas , doth contract his sonne Hugh Douglas to Marjory Abernethie , sister to Hugh Lord Abernethie , The summe and contents thereof , are that the marriage shall be solemnized on Pasche day , that all things may be perfected before Ascension day . The conditions are these , for the Lord Abernethies part , that he shall give with his sister to Hugh Douglas , viginti carictas terrae ( perhaps it should be Carrucatas terrae ) twenty plough gate of land in the towne of Glencors . And for the Lord Douglas part , that he shall give to his son Hugh Douglas and Marjory his wife 20. Carrucatas in feudo de Douglas , twenty plough gate of land in the few of Douglas . The witnesses are Alexander Cumine , Earle of Buchan , Raynold Cumin , John of Dundie-Moore , and one Douglas , whose Christian name was worn away , and could not be read . This should seem to be that Indenture which Sir Richard Metellane of Lithington , father to Iohn Lord of Thirlestane , sometime Chancellour of Scotland , of worthy memory , doth mention in his manuscript , where he hath carefully collected some memories of the house of Douglas . He sayes that Sir John Ballandine of Achnoute Knight , did show to John Lesly Bishop of Rosse , one Indenture that makes mention of Douglassas 80. yeares before that Lord William ( the Hardie ) who was contemporary with William Wallace , and this Indenture is very neare so long before his time . But he saith that the Lord Abernethie , who doth there indenture with the Lord Douglas , was father to Marjory , and our Indenture ●…akes him brother to her . It may be there have been two Indentures ; one before this made by her father , which not being accomplished during his life , hath been renewed by his sonne or brother , or that they have mistaken it , for there is no other save this onely ( which doth clearly call him her brother ) amongst their writs and evidents . Upon this there was drawn up a Charter without date of either time or place ; onely it appears by the tenour thereof , that it was made after the Indenture . The giver is the same Lord William to Hugh his son and heire : the lands disposed to him are , Glaspen , Hartwood , Kennox and Carmackhope , and Leholme ; together with the lands sayes he , ( quae sunt in calumnta inter me & haeredes Johannis Crawford ) that are in suit of law betwixt me and the heirs of John Crawforde , without any detriment . Then the cause of his giving is set down , that they may be a dowry to Marjorie Abernethie his sonnes wife , and sister to Hugh Lord Abernethie . Ever after this he intitles his sonne , Dominus Hugo de Douglas , Sir Hugh of Douglas . It hath an expresse caveat , that if after the marriage be solemnized , the said Sir Hugh of Douglasdale shall happen to die , or if he shall ( aliquo malo suo genio ) through some devillish or wicked disposition abstain from copulation with her , she shall brook and injoy these lands , although the said Lord VVilliam should be alive : And if the said Marjory shall outlive the said Lord VVilliam , thought her husband Hugh should die before him , yet he shall have the third part of his lands in Douglasdale , excepting the third of so much as the said Lord VVilliam shall leave to his wife . There is in it another very strange point , and as it were a provision in case of divorcement , or not consummating the marriage : viz. that if the said Sir Hugh , or Lord Hugh ( Dominus Hugo ) be then ( after his fathers death ) living lord and heir , or have an heire by any other wife , the said Marjory shall possesse the lands notwithstanding , all the dayes of the said Hughs life . Now he could not have an heire by another wife , unlesse he were first divorced from her . There is also one clause more touching her security , That if the Lord Abernethie , or his counsell shall desire any other security reasonable by Charter or hand-write , that they shall cause make the conveyance as they think good , and Lord VVilliam shall signe it , and set his seal to it . The seal at this is longer then broad , fashioned like a heart , the letters thereon are worn away , and not discernable save onely ( Wll ) and the armes seeme to be three Starres or Mullets at the upper end thereof : but I cannot be bold to say absolutely they were so . This I have set down the more particularly and punctually , that by these circumstances the truth may be more clear and free from all suspition of forgery and invention . I have done it also , that though every one be not curious or taken with these things , such as are ( of which number I prefesse my self to be one ) may find something to please their harmelesse desire of the not unpleasant , and some way profitable knowledge of Antiquity . By this Indenture it is cleare that this William is not the same with VVilliam Hardie , who died in prison , and was father to good Sir James , because his name was VVilliam , and had a sonne Hugh , as the other also had : for if we do but suppose that Hugh contracted to Marjory Abernethie were 25. yeares of age at the making of the ●…ndenture ( 1259. ) and that his father Lord VVilliam were twenty five yeares elder then his son Hugh , fiftie in all : then must he have been when he married the young English Lady ( by whom he had divers children ) and when he assisted VVilliam VVallace , when he surprised the Castles of Sanquhaire and Disdeir , and performed other warlike exploits , being still in action till the 1300. about 90. or 100. years of age , which carries no likelihood with it that one so old , should be so able of his body . Besides this Lord VVilliam the Authour of this Indenture had for his eldest sonne and heire this Hugh contracted to Marjory Abernethie , but the eldest sonne and heire to that Lord VVilliam wanted good Sir James , who died in Spain : for all our Histories do tell how that the Bishop of Saint Andrews did sute King Edward for good Sir James to restore him to his fathers lands and inheritance , but King Edward refused to do it : and in a Charter given by King Robert Bruce in the fifteenth yeare of his reigne , Bervici super Twedam , at Berwick upon Tweed , of the Lordship of Douglas , these expresse words are contained , Jacobo Domino de Douglas , Filio & Heredi Guliclmi de Douglas . This good Sir James dying without heire male lawfully gotten of his own body , his brother Hugh succeeded to him in the yeare 1342. in which year the same Hugh doth give a Charter of the said lands and Lordship , to wit , Douglasdale , together with the lands of Carmichel , Selkrick , &c. To his Nephew William son to Archbald his brother , which VVilliam did succeed to Hugh , he having no heires male , he was afterward Earle of Douglas . Now it is against all reason to think that he that was contracted to Marjory Abernethy ( 1259. ) should be the same with this Hugh who gives this Charter ( 1342. ) seeing he must be now 106. or 107. years of age , which is not probable . This VVilliam had to wife Martha sister of Alexander Earle of Carrict , who bare to him two sonnes , Hugh his eldest , and VVilliam the Hardie : by their alliance with the house of Carrick , besides that he was not a little strengthned , they being great men and powerfull , it fell out that his posterity became of kindred to King Robert Bruce : for Fergus Lord of Galloway had two sonnes ; the elder Gilbert , and Ethred the younger . At his death he ordained that the Lordship of Galloway should be divided betwixt them , which was done accordingly ; and the division was ratified and confirmed by King William , who did then reigne : but the King being afterward taken prisoner at Anwick be the English , Gilbert nothing contented with the division , having got Ethred his brother into his hands , caused put out his eyes , and possessed himself of the whole Lordship , and kept it till he died , which was before the Kings return out of England , before which Ethred also was dead . These two brothers left each of them a sonne behind him ; Gilbert left Alexander , and Ethred Rowland . This Rowland finding his faction the stronger , thrust out his cousen Alexander , and seized upon the whole estate himself alone , and at the Kings return took a new gift thereof of the King , who gave also to Alexander , Gilberts sonne , in recompense and lieu thereof , the Earledome of Carrick : This Alexander had but one sister named Martha , who was married to this Lord William Douglas , he went into Syria with Edward Prince of Wales , who was brother in law to King Alexander , the third , sent by the King and State at the Popes request , to fight against the Sarasins . There went with him the Earle of Athole , and many brave Knights and Gentlemen : in which expedition he died ; leaving onely one daughter his heire , Martha Countesse of Carrick . She was married to Robert Bruce , sonne to Robert Bruce ( who is known by the name of Robert the Noble ) and to Isabel second daughter to David Earle of Huntington . To this Robert , the Countesse of Carrick bare Robert Bruce , who was afterwards King of Scotland . So then we see how Martha Countesse of Carrick , and William the Hardie were Cousin germans ; and her sonne King Robert Bruce , and good Sir James Cousins once removed : so that not onely the thralled liberties of Scotland , and his private losses , did oblige Sir James to fide with King Robert , and to stick so constantly to him , but this tie of bloud and consanguinity also , being so near a kinsman . We are also to observe here , that Martha Countesse of Carrick , was also the nearest , just and rightfull heire to the Lordship of Galloway , being descended of the elder brother Gilbert , and therefore to be preferred before Allane , who was descended of the younger brother Ethred by Rowland his ●…ather : and after her and her heires , her fathers sister married to this Lord William was next heire to both the Earledome of Carrict , and Lordship of Galloway . Whether this title did move the Douglasses to seek the Lordship of Galloway , as they did afterward , and helped them to obtain it the more easily of the King , or of others descended of Allane , and of his heires , I leave it to be considered . How ever that be , we may see by the matching with this honourable house of Carrick , Galloway and Abernethy , the chief Peers in this Realme as then , that the house of Douglas was of no small esteem and account long before good Sir James , and that they mistake things farre , and are but ill versed in Antiquity that thinke he was the first that did raise that name to Nobility or greatnesse , this Williams marriage having preceded his time 80. yeares at least . Of Sir Hugh ( the third of that name ) and sixth Lord of Douglas . WIlliam had to his eldest sonne and lawfull successour , Sir Hugh Douglas , who as we have said was married to Marjorie Abernethie , daughter to Alexander , and sister to Hugh Lord of Abernethie . This house of Abernethie were friends and followers of the Cummins , and did assist and party them in all their enterprises , as we may see by their joyning with them at Kinrosse when they took King Alexander the third . Their credit and favour with their Princes appears by this ; That Lord William Abernethie got of King William the Abacie of Aberbrothock , or ( as it may be thought rather , for the writing was dimme and hard to discern ) the Collegiate Church lands of Abernethie , paying thence yearely twenty pound . This Hugh Abernethie obtained also of King Alexander the third , a Charter of the lands of Lenrie , and a pension of fiftie pound sterling by yeare : likewise he got from the same King a confirmation of the lands of Hulkstone and Lilestone . In these gifts the Cummins still are witnesses , and with them stiled Patrick Earle of Dumbarre . We finde also a gift of twenty pound land granted by Isabell Countesse of Stratherne Relict of Walter Cummin , and her husband John Russell . In the dayes of Balioll this house was so powerfull , that thy were able to make their party good against the Earle of Fife , whom they slew , and were winked at by Balioll : with this house did Sir Hugh match , as his father had done with Carrict and Galloway , which as it was an honourable alliance for him , so doth it also argue that the house of Douglas even then was noble and honourable , and in the rank amongst the greatest , as we have said . How long this Sir Hugh Lord Douglas did live after his contract and marriage , we cannot finde : but it is clear that he had no children that survived and outlived their father , because his brother William was his heire and successour . Neither can we relate any his particular actions ; onely fame and tradition have given him a received testimony of activitie , watchfulnesse and diligence , by terming him good Sir Hugh Douglas , whom his foes found never sleeping . He with his wife are buried in Saint Brides Church in Douglas . Of William the Hardie ( or Long legge ) the fourth William and seventh Lord of Douglas . TO Hugh did succeed his brother VVilliam , who for his valour and courage is distinguished by the addition of VVilliam the hardie ; he is named also William long legge , by reason of his tall and goodly ; stature , having beene a very personable man. Hee was twice married : first to the Lord Keeths sister , by whom he had two sonnes , Iames and Hugh , as is evident by a Charter of re●…ignation made by his son Hugh to his nephew VVilliam the first Earle of Douglas : his next wife was an English Lady called Ferrar , or Ferrais , of which name we finde the Earls of Darbie to have beene in the dayes of King Henry the third : She bare also two sons , Archbald Lord of Galloway , and Iohn , of whom are descended the Lords of Dalkeith , Maines , and Loghleven . Concerning himselfe , we finde in the English Chronicle , that when King Edward the first took in the town of Berwick ( in the yeare 1295. ) he was Captain of the Castle there , and not being able to resist and hold out , the Towne being in the enemies hands , he rendred the place , with himselfe also a prisoner , where he remained untill the warres were ended , by the yeelding of Iohn Balioll to King Edward . During the time of his captivitie he was to marry this English Lady , that so he might be drawn to favour the Kings pretensions in conquering of Scotland . But his matching did not alter his affection towards his native Countrey , nor brake his constancie in performing his dutie to it . Wherefore when he heard that VVilliam VVallace was risen up , and had taken open banner against the English , he joyned with him , by which accession of forces , Wallace Army was much increased and strengthened ; yet they were not alwayes together , but according to the occasion , and as opportunity did offer , they did divide their companies ; and went to severall places , where they hoped to get best advantage of the enemie , and where there needed no great Armie , but some few companies at once . In these adventures Lord William recovered from the English the Castles of Disdiere and Sanwheire . The manner of his taking the Castle of Sanwheire is said to have beene thus : There was one Anderson that served the Castle , and furnished them with wood and fewell , who had dayly accesse to it upon that occasion . The Lord Douglas directs one of his trustiest and stoutest servants to him to deale with him , to finde some meane to betray the Castle to him , and to bring him within the gates onely . Anderson either perswaded by entreatie , or corrupted for money , gave my Lords servant ( called Thomas Dickson ) his apparell and carriages , who comming to the Castle , was let in by the Porter for Anderson . Dickson presently stabbed the Porter , and giving the signall to his Lord who lay neere by with his Companies , set open the gates , and received them into the court . They being entred , killed the Captaine , and the whole English Garrison , and so remained masters of the place . The Captains name was Beuford , a kinsman to his own Ladie Ferrais , who had oppressed the Countrey that lay near to him very insolently . One of the English that had been in the Castle escaping , went to the other garrisons that were in other Castles and Townes adjacent , and told them what had befallen his fellowes , and withall informed them how the Castle might be recovered ▪ whereupon joyning their forces together , they came and besieged it . The Lord Douglas finding himself straightned , and unprovided of necessaries for his defence , did secretly convey his man Dickson out at a postern or some hidden passage , and sent him to William Willace for aid : Wallace was then in the Lennox , and hearing of the danger Douglas was in , made all the haste he could to come to his relief . The English having notice of Wallace approach , left the siege , and retired toward England ; yet not so quickly but that Wallace accompanied with Sir John Grahame , did overtake them , and killed 500. of their number , ere they could passe Dalswynton . By these and such like means Wallace with his assistance having beaten out the English from most part of their strengths in Scotland , did commit the care and custody of the whole Countrey , from Drumlenrigge to Aire , to the charge of the Lord Douglas . Now howbeit there be no mention of these things in our Chronicle , yet seeing the book of Wallace ( which is more particular in many things ) speakes of them , and the Charter of the house of Siminton descended lineally of the said Thomas Dickson , who for this and his other like services done to this Lord , and afterward to his sonne good sir James , got the 20. mark land of Hisleside , which his posterity doth enjoy still , holding of the Lords of Douglas and Angus , and there is no doubt to be made , but he hath done much more in his assistance he gave Wallace , then is recorded or extant any where , there being no likelihood that in those so busie times , these so valiant and brave warriers did lie idle , though the particulars lie buried in deep silence . And certainly it was not for nought that his lands were burnt by Robert Bruce himself , his wife and children taken prisoners , and brought to the King of England : his wife and children were taken by Bruce himself , by the Lord Clifford . King Edward required him to take his oath of fidelity to the Crown of England , and become his subject , which he utterly refusing to do , his lands were given to the Lord Clifford , and himself committed prisoner , and so he continued to the houre of his death . During which time he never abated any thing of his magnanimous courage and constancie , but shewed himself worthy of his noble progenitours , and no wayes short of whatever worth either they had , or fame hath bestowed on them : So did he also well deserve to be predecessour to such successours , and father to such posterity ; who ( as we shall heare hereafter ) did follow this vertuous example and pattern . How praiseworthy is it in him , that neither the danger of his own person ( being in the hands and power of his enemy ) nor the example of so many as did yeeld to the victorious Conquerour , there being few or none beside William Wallace that stood out against him , no not the desperate case and estate of his Countrey brought to so low an ebbe , could break his resolution to remain firme to his native soyl : Notwithstanding , that by all appearance all was irrecoverably lost , so that his standing out against the King could bring no help to it , and certain enmity ( for ought could be seen ) to himself and his posterity for ever . Setting aside all these regards ( which are so common , and so highly accounted of in this our last age ) not measuring dutie by profit , or commoditie , nor following the common rules of that wisedome which now reignes in the world , which is to respect and preferre our particular before all other things ; but weighing matters in another ballance , and squaring his actions by what was generous and right , rather then that which was gainfull and advantagious for himself : he hath left an example of true wisedome , vertue and honesty ▪ and ▪ of true magnanimitie unto others : he dieth a free man in despite of his enemies , though a prisoner , and beareth witnesse of the liberty of his Countrey , that it did not serve , but was oppressed , convincing the Tyrant of that time of violence , and the Advocates and Proctors , which either he then had , or since have pleaded for him in that debate , of most impudent and manifest lying . And there are some even in our dayes scarce yet ashamed of so shamefull an assertion , as to affirm that Scotland , and some of their Kings have yeelded obedience , and homage , to a forrain Prince , acknowledging him for their Soveraigne . But the truth hereof is , that it hath been oppressed , but never served ; it hath been overcome , and overrunne , but it never yeelded : And in the owne time through constancy and courage , did at last overcome the overcomer , and shake off the yoake of forrainers in spight of all their force and fraud ; whereof as the Lord Douglas in this catastrophe of his life is a pregnant witnesse , so hath he left behind him an honourable memory of an invincible mind , and a lesson for tyrants to teach , and let them see how weake a thing tyranny is , and how small power and force it hath when it meets with true courage , though it were but of one man , who overcomes their force and falshood , with truth and constancy : And certainly this Lords vertue and merits are such , as , how ever those that come after him did fall into more happy times , and had better occasions to show themselves , and to make their actions more conspicuous towards their Countrey : yet , there is no reason why he should be thought inferiour to any one of them , because his fortune was harder then theirs : Nay , he ought rather to be preferred so much the more , as he was more assailed , and compassed about with difficulties , and did wrastle with the necessities of the times without shrinking , or succumbing under the burden : Besides it was he that planted and laid the foundation , upon which they builded so honorable interprises , & did perfect what they had begun . Some write that he being cited by King Edward , with others of this Countrie , appeared upon the citation , and that he was not apprehended by fraud or force , but came of his own accord to Berwick : which if he did , it hath not been to confesse , or acknowledge any servitude , or homage , as due to Edward , or the English , but to plead for the liberty of his Countrey , and to protest and testifie against his usurpation . Others say , that he and the Bishop of Glasgow being ( to avoid the imputation of disloyaltie and treason , of which he would not be partaker ) he came and yeelded himself to the King , which if it be true , was a very honourable and generous fact , remarkable and rare to be found , that no love of his Countrey , nor hatred of tyranny ( so strong and powerfull motives ) could draw him to be partaker of any dishonest action , though against his enemy . Methinks such noble carriage might have procured more noble dealing at King Edwards hands , and have wrung more favour from him , which since it did not , it may be taken as an argument , as want of goodnesse in himself , who had neither judgement to discern in vertue , nor a heart to honour it in others : But for my owne part I thinke it most likely that hee was taken by one means or other , and brought in against his will ; but whether hee were brought in with his will , or came in against his will , that word of yeelding ( which they ascribe to him ) is either very impertinent , or else very warily to be understood ; to wit , for the yielding of his person onely , not of the liberty of his Countrie , which he never yeelded : neither for the acknowledging of any English authority over it or himself which he never would do , but choose rather to die in prison in Hogs towre in Berwick . There are that say he was sent from Barwick to Newcastle , and from thence carried to Yorke , in the Castle whereof he died , and was buried in a little Chappell at the south end of the bridge which is now altogether decayed . His death ( which is reckned of some to have fallen out in the yeare 1307. ) must have been sooner in the year 1302. for his sonne Sir James returned into Scotland in the yeare 1303. when Edward was at Stirling , where the Bishop of Saint Andrewes did recommend him to the King : Now Sir James came not home till he heard newes of his fathers death . It is also said of this Lord , that he had the Isle of Man , whether as heritable possessour , or as Governour onely it is not known ; but it is well known that this Island belonged to the Crown of Scotland , and that the Douglasses have had more then an ordinary interest therein ; Douglas Castle , and Douglas Haven , which carry their names to this day , do beare sufficient witnesse . But whether from this man or some other , is not so easie to determine peremptorily . Of good Sir James , the first James , and , eighth Lord of Douglas . THe next is James , commonly called good Sir James , whom men account as the first , of whom the house of Douglas received the beginning of their greatnesse , which came at last to exceed others so farre , that it did almost passe the bounds of private subjects . He was as we have said already , sonne to the same William by his first wife the Lord Keeths sister : his education in his youth is said to have been in vertue and letters ; first at Glasgowe , aftetwards at Paris : for his father being encombred with warres , and last imprisoned , his uncle Robert Keeth conveyed him away to Paris in the time of Philip le ●…ll , where he remained exercising himself in all vertuous exercise , and profited so well , that he became the most complete , and best accomplished young noble man in the Countrey , or elsewhere . Being certified of his fathers death , the love of his native soile made him to return into Scotland , to order the course of his life , by the counsell and advice of his friends . But when he came home , finding his patrimony disposed by King Edward to the Lord Clifford , and his friends scattered and dispersed , having by his mother some relation of kindred to William Lambert Archbishop of Saint Andrewes , he addressed himself to him , who did receive him kindly , and entertain him nobly ▪ And when King Edward the first was come to Stirling in his last journey ( at what time he in a manner overanne all Scotland , and destroyed the monuments thereof ) the Archbishop going thither to salute him , carried this young man along with him : and taking his opportunity , presented him to King Edward , humbly intreating him to take him into his protection , and to restore him into his fathers inheritance , and imploy him in his service , as a youth of great hope and expectation , and such as might be usefull and stedable if he should be pleased to use him . The King demanded what he was , and having understood what his name and lineage was , and that he was sonne to Lord William , did absolutely refuse to do him any courtesie , or favour , nay he could not abstain from reproachfull and contumelious words against the obstinacy and treason ( so was he pleased to nickname vertue ) of his father , saying , that he had no service for him , nor for any such traitours son as his father was ; that he had given his lands to better men then himselfe , and those that had done him better service then he was able to doe ; and though they had not been given , yet would he never have given them to him . So implacable he was , and such pride had he conceived , with contempt of the deprest estate of this supplicant , little remembring the variablenesse of the estate of man ; and little knowing or considering , what weight and 〈◊〉 may be in one man alone , in whatsoever condition , to 〈◊〉 sometimes , and to help even to disappoint and overthrow the 〈◊〉 of the 〈◊〉 Monarchs . It came even so to passe in this man , who did this Kings sonne and successour such a piece of shrewd service , as he had never the like in all his life : which had been more shrewd , if the 〈◊〉 of his horses , and the undutifulnesse of some Scots , that received him into their Castle of 〈◊〉 , when he fled from Bannockburne , had not stood him in better steed , then all his huge Hoast and rich Kingdome , wherewith he was so puffed up . Whereby Princes and great men may learne , not to despise the meannesse and most afflicted state of any , nor to loose the reins neither to unjust actions , or reproachfull words . Sir James being thus rebuked , what could he do against a King , a Monarch , a victorious and triumphant King ? to whom all had yeelded , with whom all went right well , in his ruffe , in his highest pitch , in his grandor , compassed about with his guards , with his armies : to controll him , he was not able ; to plead for justice , it would avail him nothing ; to reply , could profit him lesse : a Prince , his victors word is a law , nay more then a law for the time . There was no contesting , no contradicting , were his speeches never so unjust : he behoved to swallow this pill ( how bitter soever ) there was no remedy but patience . Nay , the Archbishop must be silent also , and dares not mutter one word , wherefore home he goes with this scorn , to expect a better time of replying : not in words , but deeds , and of showing what service he was able to have done to him . The occasion of which though it were over long in coming in respect of his desire , yet did fall out , not very long after : for within two or three years ( 1305. ) Robert Bruce came into Scotland , not yet a King ( save in courage ) but having right to be King of the Countrey , whom Edward had served in the same kind , and who had received the like answer and scorn in a Petition not unlike , for both did crave their fathers inheritance , Sir James onely a Lordship , and the Bruce a whole Kingdome , which was but his due , and he had done him better service then Sir James . He had fought against his own Countrey for him , spent the bloud of his friends , and his owne , in hope of it ; with great losse to himself , and example to others not to do the like . But neither duety , nor desert , nor promise could oversway his ambition , and master it so farre , as to suffer him to perform what he had promised : and not content to have fed this Prince with the food of fools , faire hopes , and after so much imployment and many notable services , to frustrate him , he must needs also embitter all , with a flouting answer to his demand . To such a height of pride had prosperity raised him , that no modesty could keep him from loosing the reins to an unbridled tongue , which doth never beseem a man , much lesse a Prince : wherefore as hatred and despight did animate him against Sir James , for his fathers refusing to serve him : so ambition did work the same affection in him against Robert , though he had served him ; both were refused of their suits , both their petitions were rejected ; the one with spight , the other with derision . What ( saith King Edward , being urged with his promise of giving the Kingdome of Scotland to Bruce ) N'avons nous antr●… chose a faire , que de conquerir des royaumes pour vous ? speaking in French , Have we nothing else to do , but to conquer Kingdomes for you ? Kings , Potentates , Victors , should not be pressed with their promises : So they think , and so men say ; lawes are not made for them , which they leap over at their pleasure . And it might be thought so perhaps , if their power were perfect , and if there were not a more absolute and over ruling power , that is able to range them under reason . We shall finde it so even in this particular in the owne time , although this were no time for him to reply : no more then it had been for Sir James at Stirling . But the time being now come in the yeare 1305. as said is . But the time being now come , though not so fit as he could have wished , yet as it was he behoved to use it , and make vertue of necessitie . And so withdrawing himself secretly out of England , he came to Dumfreis , and there slew John Cummin his greatest enemy , determining from thenceforth to behave and carry himself as King of this Realme . And here by the way , we may observe Gods providence towards this Kingdome , in preserving the liberties thereof , who had before stirred up William Wallace like another Sampson to vindicate it out of the hand of the English. Now that he is gone , he sends home our lawfull Prince , and righteous successour to the Crown , to fight our battles for us , and to perfect the work which the other had begun ; onely for so much as about this time , John Monteeth under colour of friendship , had betrayed William Wallace into the hands of the English for money ; and he being taken and carried to London , was by King Edwards command , tortured and put to death with great cruelty ; and his armes , and legs , and head , hung up in the most eminent places and Cities both of England and Scotland . Of which fact of Edwards we will say no more , but onely set down thesaid Wallaces Epitaph , which is perfixed to that book that is written of his exploits in Scots rime . The Epitaph is in latine verse , but the Authour is incertain , and the more is the pity , sor he deserves to have been better known . Thus it is , Invida morstristi Gulielmum funere vallam , Quae cuncta collit , Sustulit Et tanto pro cive , cinis ; pro finibus urna est , Frigusque pro loricâ , obit . Ille licet terras loca se inferiora , reliquit : At fata factis supprimens , Parte sui meliore solum , Coelumque perrerat Hoc spiritu , illud gloria . At tibi si inscriptum generoso pectus honesto Fuisset , hostis proditi Artibus , Angle , tuis in poenas parcior esses , Nec oppidatim spargeres Membra viri sacranda adytis , sed scin quid in ista Immanitate viceris Ut vallae in cunctas oras spargantur & horas Laudes , tuumque dedecus . A verse , whereof Buchanan needed not to have been ashamed ▪ Envious Death , who ruines all , Hath wrought the sad lamented fall Of Wallace , and no more remains Of him , then what an Urn contains , Ashes for our Heroe we have , He for his armour a cold grave . He left the earth too low a state , And by his worth o're came his fate . His soul death had no power to kill , His noble deeds the world doth fill With lasting Trophies of his name . O! hadst thou vertue loved , or fame ; Thou couldst not have insulted so Over a brave betraid dead foe , Edward , nor seen those limbs expos'd To publick shame , fit to be clos'd As Reliques , in a holy shrine ; But now the infamy is thine . His end crownes him with glorious bayes , And stains the brightest of thy praise . But to return to our Sir James : he is no sooner advertised of the Bruces arrivall into Scotland , and of the Cummins slaughter , when without either summons or intreaty ( save of his own mind in that common case simpathising with the other ) he resolves to try his fortune in that course with him . But what could he do ( poore Gentleman ) being in such necessity , and destitute of all help : he had neither horse , nor armour ; nor followers for such a businesse : all was gone , and violently taken from him by the iniquity of the times , and the prevailing of the enemie . There was neither friend nor mean left for his provision . Shall he burden Archbishop Lambert ? what could a Prelate do ? what could he , especially being under the beasts feet , as we say , and subject to King Edward ? It is better sometimes to force a friend , then to indanger him . Compulsion may be used where there is perill in the consenting : chiefly if the party be not unwilling , the ground right , and the cause good : otherwise , violence is never to be attempted , neither is iniquity , fraud or falsehood , ( evill and hurtfull courses ) either against private men , or the publick state to be warranted by this example . To it he goes , and robs Lambert of what he durst not give him : he inticeth his servants ; whose hearts did serve them to serve him in that hazard , whom their Lord durst not command to go with him : he takes also some gold from him , and provides himself a horse and armour , and that all might seem to bee done by the strong hand ; and violence might plead for the Bishop at King Edwards hands , he beats the rest of the servants that were left behind , and so goes away with the prey : An honourable robber , and just spoiler ! He meets Robert Bruce at Arickstone in the head of Anandale . If he were welcome or not , I leave it to the consideration of the Reader : he was received as his Cousin , and used as a companion , and continued a faithfull Friend and loyall Subject , so long as their dayes continued , without variance , emulation or jealousie , or grudge on either side . A happy King by such a servant ! A happy servant by such a Prince ! A happy Countrey by such a society and pair of worthy friends ! ( So it is where vertues encounter , begetting mutuall affection , and produce notable effects . ) The Bishop of Rosse John Leslie sayes , that he carried this money to Bruce from the Archbishop , and makes no mention of any force , whose commendation of this James is not amisse to be here inserted . Hoc tempore quidam Jacobus Duglasius , altissimi animi , & ad quaevis pericula subeunda paratissimi adolescens , dum cum animo suo rep●…tat Robertum ( omnibus virtutum ornamentis excultum ) injustis Anglorum armis vexari , & iniquis belli telis configi , ab Episcopo Sancto Andreapolitano , in cujus suit comitatu , pecuniam grandem ad Roberti causam labantem sustentandam impetravit ; illamque illi quam celerrime tulit . Cui in bello strenuam , in pace liberam , in adversis sidelem , in prosperis j●…cundam 〈◊〉 per reliquum vitae curriculum semper post ea navavit . Ab hoc Jacobo clarissima Duglasiorum familia primum suae Nobilitatis nomen accepisse perhibetur . In English thus : At this time one James Douglas , a youth of high spirit , and ready to undergo whatsoever perill , considering with himself how Robert Bruce ( a man adorned with all vertues ) was vexed with the unjust armes of the English , and pursued with warre against all equity : obtained of the Bishop of Saint Andrews ( in whose company he was ) a great summe of money , to uphold the now declining cause of Robert ; which money he carried to him with all diligence , and ever after aided him in his warres valiantly : in peace he was free and upright , pleasant in prosperity , and faithfull in adversity , during all the dayes of his life . From this James the noble family of the Douglasses is counted to have taken the beginning of greatnesse : so farre John Lesley . To return : their efforts at first were of exceeding hard successe . Robert Bruce was crowned at Scone in the yeare 1306. in April , at which Sir James assisted , casting into a heape , as others did , a quantity of earth of his lands of Douglas , which making a little hill , it is called yet Omnis terra . This was the custome of those times , by which homage they that held the King of Scotland Supreme under God , were distinguished from others . Some moneths after the coronation , about the 19. of June , they were defeated in a conflict at Methven by 〈◊〉 de Valence Earle of Pembroke , but without any great losse of men : for they being few in number , and perceiving their inequalitie , fled betimes , while their men were yet in breath and unwearied , having adventured so far rather to trie their fortune , what it was like to prove in their maine intentions , then in hope of victorie , where there was so great odds every way . There were taken at this battell Sir Thomas Randulph a young ftripling , Sir Alexander Fraser , Sir David Barclay , Insh Mairtin , Hugh de la Hay , or Hugh 〈◊〉 , Somervale , and some others , whom ▪ Sir Aimer Valence caused to promise fealty to the King of England , and on that condition saved their lives : especially Randulph , who is remarked after this to have beene very forward for the King of England , till he was taken againe by Sir James Douglas , as we shall heare hereafter . After this battell they retired to the Castle of Kildrummie , where the Queene and divers other Ladies remained in great scarcitie of vivers , being susta●…ned most part by what Sir James Douglas tooke by hunting and fishing . Not long after , as they went by Athole into Argyle , Athole having intelligence of them , invaded them , together with Lorne his sisters , and constrained them to fight at a place called Dalree ( which is to say , The Kings field ) about the twelfth of August ; their fortune was no better then it had beene before , the day was lost , some but not many of their men slaine , they themselves put to flight , and by flight faine to save their lives by lurking amongst the hils for a season in a most desert place , living upon roots and herbs , and lying in the open fields on the bare ground , or among the heath , sometimes but with one , other times with none to attend them , being uncertaine whom to trust , in that frowning of fortune , when commonly there are but few that remain friends , and many become enemies , base minds seeking thereby either to avoid harm , or to gain favour of the stronger . At last finding that they were hotly hunted after , and hardly followed , they thought it their safest way to go to the Western Isles . Lochlowmond lay in their way , whether being come , and having found an old boat , Sir James ( however expert in that Art before ) having learned so much by that great Schoolmaster Necessity , rowed his King over this Lake in a night and half a day . Thus saith the manuscript , but it seemeth rather to have been some other Lake then Lochlowmond , or rather some inlet of the Sea ( which are called sometimes Lakes ) between the main Land and the Isle in which they lurked : because Lochlowmond is of no such breadth , as that it should be esteemed a great matter to row over it in that space : and besides they did row to an Isle where they did rest amongst our Aebudes , to none of which Lochlowmond is adjacent . The Bruces book saith not that they rowed through the Lake to the Isle , but through the Lake to the next land , and then passed to the Sea side where they provided boats in which they sailed to the Isles . It attributes also this rowing to others , then Sir James , though hee were the first finder of the old boate . Thus it went with them , and to such an exigent was the hope of our Countrey brought . Thus we see these great minds , and ( afterwards ) great men in a base , poore , and perillous , but never miserable estate ( which vertue is not capable of ) desolate in it self , destitute of friends , and their first attempts dasht by the mean under Captains of their great enemy King Edward . But ere they have done ; they shall make his successour to flie in the like sort in a small fisher boat , poorely accompanied to save his owne person , after the losse of his army . On such moments do the hopes and fears of mortall men depend , and such vicissitude is the estate of those glorious crowns subject unto , which men do so much affect , with ●…uch travell and turmoil ; as for them , it was not the Crowne onely , but their libertty also , that they suffered for : and not their owne liberty alone , but the freedome o●… their Countrie and Patriots , which they sought to maintain against injustice , fraud and violence . Wherefore we never heare that they fainted at any time , or dispaired any time in the midst of dispair : such force hath a good cause in a good heart , the Authour of goodnesse , no doubt sitting at the rudder of that boat , and preserving the old sheards of it , so that they gave no place to the violence of the waves , and their hearts from yeelding to that despair that every way did assault them , untill he had finished that work he had to do with them ; for recovering the liberty of their Countrey , and beating down the pride of tyranny , that hee might in all this show his own might and prerogative , in casting down and setting up at his pleasure . Such hard beginnings have oftentimes the greatest works , and so little ought either hope or dispaire bee grounded on the first successe . Being landed in this little Isle , which the Bruces book calls Rachrine , ( other Authours name it not ) they remained a while hidden there with a speciall friend of King Roberts ; both the Isle and the man being worthy of more expresse honour , and a perpetuall memory of their names : he for his faithfull friendship , the Isle for its safe receit , and harbouring so good guests , and their good luck after this receit , their efforts from hence forward having been almost ever prosperous . Their safety was ( most part ) in this , that men believed they were not safe ; ceasing to seek those whom ( they thought ) had ceased to be , taking them to have perished , because they appeared no where to the view of the world . Like example is long since recorded of Masinissa King of Numidia : and their lurking doth bring forth the like fruit and effects . But it was not fit for them to lurk too long : their friends might so have been discouraged , and losing hope , have forsaken the cause , whereby the work would have been the more difficult , if not impossible . Therefore to begin again afresh , the King obtains from his good friend some small company of men , and Sir James with fourty of these ( which hee got of the King ) went and tooke in the Castle of Arane by a stratagem . A small , but happy flourishing of a better spring time , after that their tempestuous winter , which shall yeeld a full harvest , and bring forth the ripe fruit of liberty to their Countrey , and the settling of the Kingdome to his master , and his posterity , untill these our dayes , and we hope for ever . Thither came the King also within two dayes ( and hearing of them ) Malcolme Earle of Lennox . These sailed from thence into Carrict , where they tooke a Castle of the Kings proper inheritance , but the Writers do not name it . And here indeed the course of the Kings misfortunes begins to make some halt and stay , by thus much prosperous successe in his own person ; but more in the person of Sir James , by the re-conquests of his owne Castles , and Countries : from hence he went into Douglasdale , where by the means of his fathers old servant Thomas Dickson he tooke in the Castle of Douglas , and not being able to keep it , he caused burn it , contenting himself with this , that his enemies had one strength fewer in that Countrey than before . The manner of his taking of it is said to have beene thus : Sir James taking onely with him two of his servants , went to Thomas Dickson , of whom he was received with tears , after he had revealed himselfe to him , for the good old man knew him not at first , being in meane and homely apparell . There he kept him secretly in a quiet chamber , and brought unto him such as had beene trusty servants to his father , not all at once , but apart and by one and one , for feare of discoverie . Their advice was , that on Palmsunday , when the English would come forth to the Church , being a solemne Holiday , he with his two servants should come thither apparelled like countrey taskers , with mantles to cover their armour , and when he should perceive that the English were in the Church , and his partners were conveened , that then he should give the word , and cry the Douglas slogan , and presently set upon them that should happen to be there , who being dispatched , the Castle might be taken easily . This being concluded , and they come , so soone as the English wer●… entred into the Church with Palmes in their hands ( according to the custome of that day ) little suspecting or fearing any such thing ; Sir James , according to their appointment , cryed too soone ( a Douglas , a Douglas ) which being heard in the Church ( this was Saint Brides Church of Douglas ) Thomas Dickson , supposing he had beene hard at hand , drew out his sword , and ran upon them , having none to second him , but an other man , so that oppressed with the multitude of his enemies , he was beaten downe , and slaine . In the meane time Sir James being come , the English that were in the Chancel kept off the Scots , and having the advantage of the strait and narrow entrie , defended themselves manfully . But Sir James encouraging his men , not so much by words , as by deeds and good example , and having slain the boldest resisters , prevailed at last , and entring the place , flew some 26 of their number , and tooke the rest , about 10. or 12. persons , intending by them to get the Castle upon composition , or to enter with them when the gates should be opened to let them in : but it needed not , for they of the Castle were so secure , that there was none left to keepe it save the porter and the cooke , who knowing nothing of what had hapned at the Church , which stood a large quarter of a mile from thence , had left the gate wide open , the porter standing without , and the Cooke dressing the dinner within . They entred without resistance , and meat being ready , and the cloth laid , they shut the gates , and tooke their refection at good leasure . Now that he had gotten the Castle into his hands , considering with himselfe ( as he was a man no lesse advised then valiant ) that it was hard for him to keep it , the English being as yet the stronger in that Countrey , who if they should besiege him , he knew of no reliefe ; he thought better to carry away such things as be most easily transported , gold , silver , and apparell , with ammunition and armour , whereof he had greatest use and need , and to destroy the rest of the provision , together with the Castle it selfe , then to diminish the number of his followers , for a garrison there where they could do no good . And so he caused carrie the meale and malt , and other cornes and graine , into the Cellar , and layd all together in one heape : then he took the prisoners and slew them , to revenge the death of his trustie and valiant servant Thomas Dickson , mingling the victuals with their bloud , and burying their carcasses in the heap of corne : after 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 struck out the heads of the barrells and puncheons , and let the drink runne through all , and then he cast the carkasses of dead ho●…ses and other carrion amongst it , throwing the salt above all , so to make altogether unusefull to the enemie ; and this Cellar is called yet the D●…glas Lairder . Last of all , he set the house on fire , and burnt all the timber , and what else the fire could overcome , leaving nothing but the scorched walls behind him . And this seemes to be the first taking of the Castle of Douglas , for it is supposed that ●…e took it twice . For this service , and others done to Lord William his father , Sir James gave unto Thomas Dickson the lands of Hisleside , which hath beene given him before the Castle was taken , as an encouragement to whet him on , and not after , for he was 〈◊〉 in the Church : which was both liberally and wisely done of him , thus to hearten and draw men to his service by such a noble beginning . The Castle being burnt , Sir James retired ▪ and p●…ting his men into divers companies , so as they might be most secret he caused cure such as were wounded in the fight , and he himselfe kept as close as he could , waiting ever for an occasion to enterprise something against the enemie . So soone as he was gone , the Lord Clifford being advertised of what had happened , came himselfe in person to Douglas , and caused re-edifie and repair the C●…le in a very short time , unto which he also added a Tower , which is yet called Harries Tower , from him , and so returned into England , l●…ving one Thruswall to ●…e Captain thereof . Sir James his men being cured of their wounds , and refreshed with rest , he returned again to the King , at what time he was ready to fight with Sir Aymore 〈◊〉 , the Lord of Lorne , and Sir Thomas Randulph , at Cumnock . The King had not above 400. men , so that being almost encom●…ed by the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 he was aware , he was forced to forsake the field , having lost his Banner , which was taken by Sir Thomas Randulph , ●…y which he got great credit with King Edward . King Robert in his flight , or retreat , divided his men into three companies , that went severall wayes , that so the enemie being uncertaine in what company he himself were , and not knowing which to pursue rathest , he might the better esc●…e . When the●… were all come againe to the place of their rendezvous , which the King had appointed when he divided them , Sir James Douglas perswaded the King to set upon a company of the enemies , who were very securely lying by themselves farre from the body of the Army , without feare of any danger which the King did , and having slaine 200. of them , he scattered the rest . After this , Sir Aymore Valence ( being then Warden for King Edward in Scotland , and residing himselfe at Bothwell ) sent Sir Philip Mowbray with a company of men , about 100. into Coile and Cunninghame , to 〈◊〉 the Inhabitants in their obedience to England , whereof when Sir James Douglas had notice , and knowing the way by which they must go ( called 〈◊〉 way ) he lay in a straight foord betweene two marishes , called 〈◊〉 , accompanied with some 40 , choice men , and there rising up of a sudden , 〈◊〉 Sir Philip was aware , they routed his men , and chased himselfe , who did escape very narrowly , for he left his sword with them , and fled alone to Kilmarnock and Kilwinnin , the rest back to Bothwell . This was before the battell of Lowdoun hill , where both the King and Sir James were present , at which they defeated Sir Aymore Valence and 3000. men , they having onely 500. which Sir Aymore tooke so to heart , that he retired himselfe into England , where he gave over his charge of Warden , and never returned into Scotland againe with any command , except it were when the King came in person . The English Chronicle sayes that the King discharged Sir Aymore who was Earle of Penbrooke , and placed John de Britton in his office , and made him Earle of Richmond . These particulars I cannot ghesse why they should have beene omitted by our Writers , being so remarkable defeats , where diligence , dexteritie , and valour , have beene used with wisedome and judgement . However , upon this withdrawing and departure of Sir Aymore Valence , King Robert being rid of the greatest danger , makes toward Innernesse , leaving Sir James behinde him , to recover such places as were still in the enemies hands . He therefore getting him into Douglasdale , did use this stratagem against Thruswall Captaine of the Castle of Douglas , under the Lord Clifford : hee caused some of his folkes drive away the cattell that fed neare unto the Castle , and when the Captaine of the garrison followed to rescue , gave order to his men to leave them , and to flee away . This he did often , to make the Captaine to slight such frayes , and to make him secure , that he might not suspect any further end to be in it : which when he had wrought sufficiently ( as he thought ) he laid some men in ambuscado , and sent others away to drive away such beasts as they should finde in the view of the Castle , as if they had been theeves and robbers , as they had done often before . The Captaine hearing of it , and supposing there was no greater danger now then had beene before , issued forth of the Castle , and followed after them with such haste , that his men ( running who should be first ) were disordered and out of their ranks . The drivers also fled as fast as they could , till they had drawne the Captaine a little beyond the place of the ambuscado ; which when they perceived , rising quickly out of their covert , set fiercely upon him , and his companie , and so slew himselfe , and chased his men back to the Castle , some of which were overtaken and slaine , others got into the Castle , and so were saved ; Sir James not being able to force the house , took what bootie he could get without in the fields , and so departed . By this means , and such other exploits , he so affrighted the enemie , that it was counted a matter of great jeopardie to keepe this Castle , which began to be called the adventurous ( or hazzardous ) Castle of Douglas : whereupon Sir John Walton being in suit of an English Lady , she wrote to him , that when he had kept the adventurous Castle of Douglas seven yeares , then he might thinke himselfe worthy to be a sutor to her . Upon this occasion Walton tooke upon him the keeping of it , and succeeded to Thruswall , but he ran the same fortune with the rest that were before him . For sir James , having first dressed an ambuscado neare unto the place , he made fourteen of his men take so many sacks , and fil them with grasse , as though it had been corn , which they carried in the way toward Lanerik , the chief market town in that County : so hoping to draw forth the Captain by that bait , and either to take him , or the Castle , or both . Neither was this expectation frustrate , for the Captain did bite , and came forth to have taken this victuall ( as he supposed . ) But ere he could reach these carriers , Sir James with his company had gotten between the Castle and him : and these disguised carriers , seeing the Captain following after them , did quickly cast off their upper garments , wherein they had masked themselves , and throwing off their sacks , mounted themselves on horseback , and met the Captain with a sharp encounter , being so much the more amazed , as it was unlooked for : wherefore when he saw these carriers metamorphosed into warriours , & ready to assault him , fearing that which was , that there was some train laid for them , he turned about to have retired to the Castle , but there also hee met with his enemies ; between which two companies , he and his whole followers were slain , so that none escaped ; the Captain afterwards being searched , they found ( as it is reported ) his mistresse letter about him . Then hee went and tooke in the Castle , but it is uncertain ( say our writers ) whether by force , or composition ; but it seems that the Constable , and those that were within have yeelded it up without force ; in regard that hee used them so gently , which he would not have done if he had taken it at utterance . For he sent them all safe home to the Lord Clifford , and gave them also provision and mony for their entertainment by the way . The Castle which he had burnt onely before , now he razeth , and casts down the walls thereof to the ground . By these and the like proceedings , within a short while he freed Douglasdale , Atrick forrest , and Jedward forrest , of the English garrisons and subjection . But Thomas Randulph , Alexander Stuart Lord of Bonckle , and Adam Gordone , being Englized Scots , concluded to gather together their forces , and to expulse him out of those parts . Now it fell so out , that Sir James , intending to lodge at a certain house upon the water of Line , and being come hither for that purpose , by chance all these three were lodged in the same house before he came , which drew on a skirmish betwixt them , in which Alexander Stuart Lord of Bonckle , and Thomas Randulph , were taken prisoners , and Adam Gordone saved himself by flight . This peece of service was of no small importance , in regard of the good service done to the king by Thomas Randulph , both while the King lived , and after his death when he was regent , which all may be ascribed to Sir James , who conquered Randulph to the Kings side . With these his prisoners he went into the North , as farre as the Mernes , where he met the King returning from Innernesse , of whom he was heartily welcomed , both for his owne sake , and because he had brought him his Nephew Randulph , whom the King did chide exceedingly . And he again reproved the King out of his youthfulnesse and rash humour , as though he did defend the Crowne by flying , and not by fighting ; wherefore hee was committed to prison , thereafter pardoned ; and being made Earle of Murray , he was imployed in the Kings service . This is related in the Bruces book , and hath nothing fabulous or improbable in it : and therefore it ought not to ●…e flighted : Especially seeing , as I am informed , the Book was 〈◊〉 by a man of good knowledge and learning , named master John Barbour ; Archdeacon of Aberdene ; for which work he had a yearely pension out of the Exchequer during his life , which he gave to the Hospitall of that Towne , to which it is allowed and paid still in our dayes . He lived in the reigne of David the second sonne , and successour to King Robert Bruce . Sir James was with the King at Inverourie ( ten miles from Aberdene ) against John Cummine Earle of Buchan , who was there defeated on As●…ension day , in the yeare 1308. From thence Sir James went with him when he recovered Argyle ; the Lord whereof had once comed in to the King , but was now revolted to the English side . And likewise at many more journeyes and roads , both in Scotland , and England , Sir James did ever more accompany him . In the year 1313. hee tooke in the Castle of Roxburgh , called then Marchmouth , whilest the King was busie about Dumfrees , Lanrick , Aire , and others ; and while Sir Thomas Randulph was lying at the Castle of Edinburgh : The manner of his taking of it was thus ; about Shrovetide which is a time of feasting and revelling , he with sixty more , having covered their armour with black , that they might not be discovered by the glittering thereof , went in the forenight toward the Castle ; & when they came neare to it they lay along , and crept upon their hands , and feet , through a bushie piece of ground , till they were come close to the foot of the wall . Those that did watch upon the Castle wall espied them ; but the night being dark , and by reason of their creeping they tooke them to have been cattell : for they at the foot of the wall heard the watchmen , ( there being two of them ) saying the one to the other , my neighbour such an one ( naming him by his name ) means to make good chear to night , that he hath no care of his cattell , but leaves them thus in the fields all the night : to whom the other replied , hee may make good chear this night , but if the Douglas come at them , he will fair the worse hereafter ; and with this discourse they went their way . Sir James and his men having heard this conference , were very well pleased withall , and glad to be so mistaken : they laddered the walls with ladders of cords , made by one Simon of the Leadhouse , who was also the first that adventured to scale with them himself alone , both to trie how they would hold unbroken , and to view what guard and watch was kept above . The man that stood sentinall saw him well enough , but because there were no more with him , he gave no alarum , but stood watching to have catched him on the top of the ladder , thinking to have knockt him down , or to have tumbled him headlong over the wall : but the other prevented the danger , and leaping in nimbly upon him ere he was aware , stabbed him with a knife , and threw him over the wall amongst his fellowes , to whom he called to make haste up , assuring them the coast was clear : but ere they could come up , another of the watch coming about , and perceiving a man standing on the wall , made towards him , but Simon dispatched him also . And now the rest of his companions were got up also , who marching towards the hall , they found the English at their shroving , eating , and drinking , and piping , and dancing . They entred the hall , he had but easie work of it , to do with them what he listed , being most of them drunke , and all of them unarmed : Onely the Captain ( Guillaum de fermes ) fled into the great tower being dangerously hurt with the shot of an arrow , where he remained safe all that night , but the next morning hee yeelded himself because of his wound , upon condition that his life should be safe , and his person safely set on English ground , which was willingly granted , and faithfully performed . But hee lived not long after , his wound being deadly and uncurable . Thus was the wheel of worldly affairs ( vvhich men call fortune ) so vvhirled about by the King , and his partners , that in this yeare 1313. being the seaventh from his Coronation , and the fifth or sixth from the beginning of the course of his victories , there vvas not one strength remaining in the possession , or povver of the English , save Dumbartane Castle ( which was afterward yeelded up by John Monteeth upon composition ) and Stirling , which at this present was besieged by Edward Bruce the Kings brother . To relieve Stirling , and to raise the siege thereof , King Edward the second came in proper person , and thereon insued the battell of Bannockburn ; a battell so famous and memorable , as few the like have happened in any age ; where there were two Kings present , the ods so great , and the defeat so notable . The English King did bring into the field all that he was able to make , not onely of English , but of his beyond sea dominions ; neither of those that were his owne Subjects onely , but hee was also aided and assisted by his friends and confederates , in Flanders , Holland , Zeland , Brabant , Picardie , Gascony , Normandy , Guien , Bullonois , and Burdeaux ; of these and his owne Countreymen , he had in all 150000. fighting men , to place them in the middle number , which some say was but half the number , and that he had 300000 of the whole , in equall proportion of foot and horse ; intending to have exterminated the whole nation of Scots , with so confident a presumption of victory , that he brought with him a Carmelite frier ( a Poet according to the time ) to commit his triumphs to writing : he was defeated by 30000 or 35000 at the most ( as all agree ) and that in a plain and open field , where there was slain of his men 50000. It was fought the 22 of June , 1314. Sir James being present at this Battell , did carry himselfe so before the fight , in the fight , and after it , as that his behaviour is not to be slightly slipped over with a dry foot ( as we say ) but particularly to be noted ▪ both for his owne honour ( for it is indeed worthy of perpetuall honour and praise ) and for a patterne to be followed by others , especially by all such as set their hear●…s and minds to follow vertue , and to seek true glory , which ariseth from vertue . Before the battell , we have his kindnesse , love , and care of his friend , or ( as some will have him to be ) his emulous Competitor , joyned with true magnanimitie in his demeanour towards Thomas Randulph : for King Robert having sent Randulph with 500. horse to oppose the Lord Clifford with 800. who was making toward the Castle of Stirling ; Sir James carefull for his friend in respect of this ods in number , first very orderly sought leave of the King to go to his succours , but after the King had refused him , he went out without leave ; which though it were a kinde of breach of militarie discipline , yet it shewes how dearly he loved the man , that for his sake he would thus tran●…gresse the order of the warre , and to take his hazzard of the Kings displeasure , rather then to fo●…sake him in this great danger , as he took it to be . And as he shewed his love and kindnesse in this ( a vertue of great price , and greatly to be commended ) so did he also his modestie , courtesie , and magnanimitie ( all three concurring in one fact , and much more commendable ) in that hee seeing his friend to have the better of the enemie , stood aloofe as a spectator , for feare to impaire his glory in that victorie ▪ by being a sharer with him therein . Weake mindes seeke to participate of other mens glory , and for want of worth in themselves thrust in with others . Base and meane spirits are wont to lessen and diminish the actions of others , because they have no hope to equall them . Malignant dispositions envie them , and approve of nothing but what is their owne , and would have it thought that they onely are able to do all things , and that none besides them can do any thing . As these vices were here farre from this man , so should they be as farre from all others : and as the contrary vertues did shine in him , so let them also doe in us . And thus he behaved himselfe before the Battell . In the Battell he with Randulph had the leading of the Vantguard , wherein he discharged himselfe so well , that for his good service he was knighted in the field . This honour in those dayes was given for desert , and was a badge and seale of valour , not of favour or riches , as now it is for the most part : neither was it so ordinary and common as now it is , and by commonnesse prostitute as it were , and dis-esteemed . But that it was in great esteeme of old it appeares by this , that notwithstanding this mans predecessours , and himselfe also ( as his evidents do witnesse ) were Barons and Lords , yet he thinks it no disparagement to be knighted , and did choose rather to be known and designed by that title , than the other ; so as he was commonly called Sir James Douglas , rather then Lord Douglas . And indeed we have found that even Princes and Kings have taken upon them this order , not as any diminution of their place , but an addition of honour , seeing by it they were received into the number and rank of military men and Warriours ; their other titles shewing more their dominion and power , or place , then their valour and courage . Wherefore we reade how Edward Prince of Wales was knighted when he was sent against King Bruce : So Henry the second , being then Prince of England , received the honour of Knighthood from David King of Scotland , his grand Uncle , as from one that was the best and worthiest man in his time . Then it was that he tooke his oath , that he should never take from the Crowne of Scotland , the Counties of Northumberland , Westmoreland , Cumberland , and Huntingdon . This cremonie vvas performed vvith great solemnitie and pomp in those dayes , as our Writers observe : so honourable vvas it then ; and of late it vvas thought so too : for the Earle of Clanrikart ( chiefe of the Bourks in Ireland ) having done a piece of notable service to Queene Elisabeth at the siege of Kinsoile , and at an encounter betvvene the Lord Deputies Army vvith the Irish Rebels , vvas knighted by the Lord Mon●…joy , then Generall Lieutenant for the Queene . Neither should any abuse discredit it novv . Nor can it diminish the honourablenesse thereof in our Sir James , who is able to honour it rather by his worth . After the battell he is as diligent ( as he was both diligent and valorous ) in it . This is a vertue which hath been wanting in great Commanders , and hath been marked as a great defect in them . It was told Hanniball that great Carthaginian to his face : Thou canst obtain , but not use a victory , nor prosecute it to thy best advantage . Sir James did not so , but as farre as he was able , with such companies as hee could gather together , and with as much speed as was possible for him , hee followed King Edward to have done him service , though his father Edward the first would have none of it , and set it at nought . But he was gone ere Sir James service came to the best : Now hee would gladly have showne what it was worth to his sonne and successour ( the second Edward ) in most humble sort , though it had been to have pulled off his boots ( no question ) but his Majestie had no mind to stay for him , who notwithstanding made all the haste he could to have overtaken him , and followed him with foure hundred horse more then fourty miles from Bannockburne , to Dumbarre Castle , into which hee was received , and so escaped . The next was to wait upon him in his way to Berwicke , which he did ; but the King nothing well pleased with the service hee had done , and expecting rather worse then better , seeing his importunity , and that other wayes he could not be rid of him , went by sea to Berwicke in a small fishers boat or two , with a very thinne train to attend him : not unlike unto Xerxes who a little before was so proud of his huge army , is now become the scorne of his contemned and threatned enemies , a spectacle of pride , and an example of presumptuous confidence unto all ages . Wee told before hovv his father had driven King Robert and Sir James to the like shifts and straits , but theirs vvas not so shamefull . A Christenmasse feast may be quit at Easter , sayes our Proverb , vvhich they do here verefie by this requitall : And this vvas all the service Sir James could do to King Edward at this time : but aftervvards vve shall heare vvhat service he shall do , if not to himself , yet to his sonne , Edward the third , at Stanhop Parke some few yeares after this . In the mean time let us behold our Scots , enjoying there renowned and honourable victory , which cannot bee denied to have been such , nor cannot be by envy it self . Their spoil and prey was great and rich , their prisoners many , and their ransomes proportionable . The Queen ( King Roberts wife ) was restored by exchange , and for her an English Nobleman set free without ransome : And as their joy was great , and their gaining not small , so was both the grief of the English , their shame and their losses . Their were slain of note in the field 200 Knights , together with the Earle of Glocester , and Sir Giles of Argentine ( whose death was lamented by King Robert very much ) and of prisoners very nere as many , of which the chief were the Earle of Hartford , who fled to Bothwell , and was received by Sir Gilbert Gilbaston captain thereof , ( as the Bruces booke sayes ) Sir John Segrave , John Clattengrave ( perhaps Cattegrave ) William Latimer , Sir Robert Northbrooke ( Lord keeper of the broad seal ) and Sir Ralph Mortimer , who had married the Kings sister . Mortimer was dimitted ransome-free , and obtained the Kings broad Seale at Bruces hands . These and many other prisoners of divers nations thus dismissed , are as many witnesses of the Scottish valour in the fight , and of their mildnesse and humanitie after it , who used these their so spightfull enemies no worse , who if they had overcome , would have used another kinde of cruelty , as they had both determined and threatned unto them . Amongst other Forreiners , there were two Holland Knights , who being in King Edwards Army before the battell , and hearing the bravery and brags of the English , and their spightfull railings against King Robert , had wished him good luck . These were turned out of the English Camp , and sent unto the Scottish , bidden in scorne to go and fight with them whom they wished so well , with a price set upon their heads to him that should either kill or take them prisoners in the battell . Their heads neverthelesse were safe , and themselves did partake of the good fortune they had wished ; and when they came home into their owne Countrey , they built a lodging , naming it Scotland , upon which they set up the Scottish Armes , and King Roberts statue in Antwerp , as a monument of that notable victorie ; which remained there many yeares after . The Carmelite also changed his note , singing their victorie , whose overthrow he came to set forth ; and chaunting their discomfiture , whose praises he was hired to proclaime . Thus he began his Ditty . De planctu cudo metrum cum carmine nudo , Risum detrudo , dum tali themate ludo . In English thus : With barren verse this mournfull rime I make , And am but laught at , while such theme I take . Let us here consider the meanes and wayes of both sides , we shal finde on the one side confidence of their power , and a contempt and slighting of the enemie , which seldome falls well , because from thence there ariseth commonly sloth , negligence , disorder , and confusion ▪ on the other side we may see carefulnesse , diligence , order , and exhortation , all possible meanes used both humane and divine : wisedome joyned with religion , and prayer , and what pious formes were then in use . They digged trenches and ditches , which they covered with greene turfe , for the horsemen to fall into , and did knit together and twist as it were a net of crosse ropes to entangle the footmen : which stratagems being seconded with true courage , resolution , and valour of the common souldiers and Commanders , together with the device of those that were set to keep the baggage , the sculs , and grooms , who made showes and musters , as if they had beene another armie ( of their owne head , without the direction of any ) were the chiefe meanes of the victorie . For the first was the overthrow of the men at armes , and barbed horses , and the second the bane of the middle battell of the English , who seeing this trap laid for them , fled presently , and turned their backs . But above all these , the principall and prime cause was even the Lord of hosts , who guided all these , and gave successe unto them . Let no mortall man ever think other of any his enterprises , or that any man , however wise , provident , or valorous , can use his wisedome providence , or valour , or whatever other vertue he hath , to any purpose , or succesfully , unlesse it be given him in the very instant of using it . A lesson much inculcat , but little learned ; often approved by experience , but seldome marked ▪ or soone forgotten ; at least little appearing by our practice , and which doth produce no other effect but a superficiall acknowledgement , and slender confession thereof . But to returne to our Douglas : though the King himselfe did thus escape his service , yet out of all doubt he hath beene imployed against his subjects , seeing our Historians doe tell us , that after this battell there were divers incursions made into England , for which they never stirred , but sate quiet for 2. or 3. yeares : howbeit there are no particulars set downe . In the yeare 1316. King Robert Bruce went into Ireland to support his brother Edward Bruce made King of Ireland ; and King Edward of England thinking this a fit opportunity for him to be revenged on the Scots , did levie a great Armie , and came to the borders of Scotland , hoping to doe some notable exploit now in the Kings absence . But many things faile that are intended , and princes as well as others may be disappointed of their purposes , and frustrate of their hopes . It seemes he had forgotten , or not well considered what a Lieutenant he had left behinde him , and how good a second Sir James had alwayes beene to his master the King. But howbeit he knew it not perhaps , or would not take any notice of him , yet King Robert knew it full well , and put such trust and confidence in his well knowne worth and sufficiencie , that he durst go abroad out of his owne Kingdome , and hazzard himselfe and the flower of the youth in Ireland , concrediting the Countrey unto his care and conduct , leaving him Governour in his absence , and entailing the Crowne unto him next unto Thomas Randulph , by making him Protectour of the young King during his minority , if he himselfe should happen to die in that voyage , as the blacke booke of Scone doth witnesse . And indeed Sir James did not deceive the Kings expectation and trust , neither did King Edward finde him asleepe , but watchfull and diligent in his charge , as became a good Governour : for he raised an Army to give him battell , and put both him and his people to flight , slew three notable Captains with his owne hand , Sir Edward Lillow a Gascoine , Captaine of Berwick ; others call him Callock , and say that he was slaine at the rescue of a bootie which he had taken in the Merse and Tivedale ; which narration agreeth with the Bruces booke , which calls him Edmond de Callock . The second was Sir Robert Nevill , and the third a Nobleman whom they doe not name , onely they say that Sir James slew him with his owne hand : but the Bruces booke calls him John de Richmond , and sayes he slew him in Jedward Forrest , in the midst of his Armie , Sir James having very few with him , not above fiftie horse , and some Archers , in a strait Cleugh or Valley , betweene two hills , which he had of purpose taken as a place of advantage ; and tying together the young birk trees by their boughs in the way by which the English were to passe , the horsemen being entangled in the thickets , he set upon them and defeated them . From hence it is that some think the Earls of Douglas and Angus have stakes & rice in their Coat of Armes ; yet such points of Heraldrie are hard to interpret and give a reason for them . This was the second peece of service that he did to King Edward himselfe ( say some others ) but others say that the King was not there in person , but sent a great Army commanded by divers Captains , with whom Sir James fought in three severall battells , at three sundry times , and slew all their Chieftains , with most part of their companies . Others againe a●…irme that in every one of those battels he slew the Commander with his owne hand in sight of both Armies , the which whatsoever way it was , the victorie was notable and glorious . And thus did he governe in the Kings absence . He had beene a good subject before when the King was present , now we see how well he governes when he is absent , and at his returne laying downe his authoritie , and returning to his former subjection , he proves as good a companion and colleague unto Thomas Randulph ( then made Earle of Murray ) with whom the King did joyne him for the prosecuting of the warres . It is seldome found that these vertues are so happily linked together in one person , abilitie to governe , and willingnesse to be subordinate , and obey ; excellencie of parts , and patient enduring of an equ●…ll and companion . I have often observed and admired it in these two ( the ground whereof seemes chiefly to have beene in Sir James his love and modestie , as we observe in his carriage towards this man at Bannockburne ) that in all their joynt-services , being equall in authority , and both commanding in chiefe , we never heare of any question , controversie , or debate , of any grudging or heart-burning betweene them , but find them ever agree and concurre , without any dissention or variance , with one heart and minde ( as if they had beene one man ) in all businesse whatsover . Their first association ( after the Kings returne out of Ireland ) was when they went and burnt Northallerton and Burrowbrigs , and spoyled Rippon , where they spared the Church , onely they caused those that fled thither to pay 5000. marks sterling to be free . They burnt also Scarborough towne , and hearing that the people had fled into the woods with their goods and cattell , they went and searched them out , and brought away a great bootie . Then returning home by Skipton in Craven , they spoyled the Towne , and after burnt it without resistance . This was in the yeare 1318. in May. The next was in the year following . 1319. when King Edward having gathered an army lay before Berwick . These two entred England as farre as Milton , which is within 12. miles of York , where the Archbishop of Yorke , and the Bishop of Ely Chancellour , made head against them ; in which conflict there were foure thousand English slain , amongst whom was the Major of Yorke , and a thousand drowned in the water of Swail , and if the night had not come in too soon , the battell being joyned in the afternoon , few or none of them had escaped as it is thought . It is called the battell of Milton or Swail , or the white battell , because there were a number of Priests slain at it , belike they have been apparelled in their surplices . Hollinshed in his Chronicle of England , relateth the manner how it was done : He sayes that as the English men passedover the water of Swale , the Scots set fire upon certain stacks of hay , the smoke whereof was so huge , that the English might not see where the Scots lay . And when the English were once gotten over the water , the Scots came upon them with a wing in good order of battell in fashion like to a shield , eagerly assailing their enemies who were easily beaten down , and discomfited . Many were drowned by reason that the Scots had gotten betwixt the English and the bridge , so that the English fled betwixt that wing of the Scots , and the main battell , which had compassed about the English on the one side ▪ as the wing did upon the other . The King of England informed of this overthrow , brake up his siege incontinently , and returned to Yorke , and the Scots home into their Countrey of Scotland . Their third expedition was that same yeare at Hallowtide , when the Northern borders of England had gotten in their cornes , and their barns were well stuffed with grain , which was their provision for the whole yeare . They entred England and burnt Gilsland , tooke divers prisoners , and drave away all the cattell they could finde . Then they went to Brough under Stanmoore , and returned by Westmooreland , and Cumberland , with great booty and spoil , none offering to make head against them . The fourth was in the yeare 1322. when the King of England grieved with these invasions , having complained to the Pope , had purchased a Legate to be sent into Scotland , to admonish King Robert to desist from further disquieting the Realme of England , and because he would not obey , he with Sir James Douglas , and Thomas Randulph , were accursed by the two Cardinalls , the Archbishop of Canterbury , and York , and all the Priests in England , every day thrice at Masse . These two , Sir James Douglas and Randulph ( some say the King himself ) following the Legate at the heels ( as it were ) entred England , little regarding their cursings , and wasted the Countrey to the Redcrosse , and coming to Darlington at the feast of Epiphanie , stayed there a while for gathering of booty , and destroying the Countrey : The Lord Douglas on the one hand , and the Lord Stuart of Scotland on the other ; the one going towards Hartelpool and Caveland , and the other towards Richmond . The inhabitants of Richmond-shire , having no Captains to defend them , gave a great summe of money ( as at other times they had done ) to have their Countrey saved from fire and spoil . These adventurers stayed 15 , dayes in England , and returned without battell . It is said that the Knights of the North came to the Duke of Lancaster , then lying at Pomphret , and offered to go into the field with him against the Scots , but he refused ; whether by reason of the discord between him and K. Edward , or for some other occasion I know not . At this time it is , that the King gives to Sir James Douglas a bounding Charter of Douglasdale , dated apud Bervicum super Tuedam anno Regni nostri decimo quinto , which is either the yeare 1320. or 1322. the first of April . It bears Jacobo de Douglas , filio & haeredi Gulielmi Douglas , militis , which decides the question of his age , and his brother Hughes , who outlived Sir James 12. or 13. years , and calls himself his heire , as shall be showne . It hath also this clause , Volumus insuper , &c. wee will also , and grant for us and our heires , that the said James and his heires shall have the said lands free , ab omnibus prisiis , & petitionibus quibuscunque ita quod nullus ministrorum nostrorum in aliquo se intromittat infra dictas divisas ; nisi tantum de articulis specialiter ad coronam nostram pertinentibus . To return , King Edward conceived such discontent , and was so grieved at this so wasting of his Kingdome , that he gave order to levie an army of 100000 ▪ to enter Scotland at Lammas : whereof K. Robert being advertised , entred England neare to Carlile ; and burnt some towns which belonged to King Edwards own inheritance , spoyled the Monastery of Holme , where his fathers corps were interred . Hither the Earle of Murray , and Sir James Douglas came to him with another army , whereupon marching further Southward , they came to Preston in Andernesse , and burnt all that towne also , except the Colledge of the Minorites . This was fourescore miles within England from the Borders of Scotland . Then they returned with their prisoners and booty to Carlile , where they stayed some fourteen dayes , wasting and destroying all about with fire and sword , and so they returned into Scotland on Saint James day , having remained within England three weeks , and three dayes , without any opposition or resistance . They were not long at home when K. Edward entred into Scotland with his army , and passed to Edinburgh , but for want of victualls ( which were conveyed out of the way of purpose by King Roberts command and direction ) he was forced to make a retreat , and goe home the way he came , having discharged his choller with what he could meet with in his return . But hee was quickly followed by the two Colleagues , Sir James and Randulph , who entred England , burnt North-Allerton , with other townes and villages as farre as Yorke ; and overtaking the King at the Abbey of Biland , gave him battell , and defeated him . There was taken John Britton Earle of Richmond , who had also the Earledome of Lancaster : he being ransomed for a great summe of money , passed over into France , where he remained , and never came back again into England . The English Chronicle to excuse this defeat , layes the blame hereof upon Andrew Barkeley Earle of Carlile , whom ( they say ) Sir James Douglas corrupted with money , upon which pretext Barkeley was executed , suffering ( good Gentleman ) to cover other mens faults . It doth me good to heare Master John Major answer the English Writers in his round and substantiall manner : It is but a dream ( saith he ) and spoken without all likelihood , for neither were the Scots ever so flush and well stored with moneyes as to corrupt the English , neither was that the custome of good Sir James Douglas , a valiant Warriour , who did what he did , not with gold but with another mettell , sharpe steele . The Earle of Carlile also died without confessing any such thing . Some write that King Robert was there in person , but it is more likely that he was not , but sent these two , of whom we have spoken : however , if he were there , these two were with him . At this battell Sir James tooke three French Knights , Robert Bartrame , William Bartarhome , Elye Anyallage , with their vallats ; for whose relief the K. of France requested K. Robert , and hee willing to pleasure him , transacted with Sir James to give him for their ransome foure thousand markes starling , for payment of a part of which summe , the K. giveth to him the next yeare appearently . ) Indictamenta Latrociniorum , & Ministrationem eorundem in omnibus , infra omnes terras suas subscriptas : Scilicet infra . 1. Baroniam de Douglas . 2. Forrestiam nostram de Selkirk , de qua est officiarius noster . 3. Constabularium de Lauderio . 4. Forrestiam de Jedworth cum Benjedworth . 5. Baroniam de Batherewle . 6. Boroniam de Wester-Calder . 7. Baroniam de Stabilgorthane . 8. Baroniam de Romanok . Then in generall , Et infra suas terras quascunque , infra regnum nostrum , cum pertinentibus , quas de nobis tenet in capite . Then followes the Privelledge . Etsi a●…qui de hominibus suis , infra praedictas terras , fuerint judicati per Justitiarium nostrum ; volumus quod dictus Jacobus , & 〈◊〉 sui , & eorum ministri habeant Liberationem , & liberam eorundem ministrationem , salvis nobis , & haeredibus nostris omnibus aliis particulis ad homicidium & coronam nostram pertinentibus . Tenenda , & habenda praedicta indictamenta , cum administratione eorundem , & cum omnibus libertatibus commoditatibus ad praedicta indictamenta , & administrationem eorundem 〈◊〉 , praefato Jacobo , & haeredibus suis in feudo & haereditate in perpetuum de nobis & haeredibus nostris . Volumus insuper & 〈◊〉 pro nobis & haeredibus nostris , quod praefatus Jacobus & haeredes sui , & eorum homines infra praedictas terras manentes Libri sint infuturum , de sectis curiae , de omnibus terris supradictis , & de Wardis castrorum , nec non de omnibus presis ; talliagiis curiagiis & captionibus quibuscunque ad opus nostrum , & haeredum nostrorum , salvo tantum communi auxilio pro defensione regni nostri contingente . Et ut praesens charta robur firmitatis obtineat in perpetuum , manum ejusdem Jacobi , annulo , cum quodam lapide qui dicitur ( Emeraudus ) eidem Jacobo , & haeredibus suis nomine Sasinae in memoriale permansuro in futurum ex 〈◊〉 nostra personaliter invectimus . Apud Bervicum super Twedam 〈◊〉 die mensis Novembris anno regni nostri nono decimo , anno Domini . 1325. Then there is a precept directed to Bernard Abbot of Arbrothock , Chancellour , to cause make a Charter thereof under the broad seal , and deliver it to the said James . This I thought good to set down in the owne words , because of the singularity , in that it is the promise of a King fulfilled to his subject , not for any proper debt , or money disburst , but for the ransome of prisoners . 2 It is singular also in respect of the thing given , Inditements , Immunities , Liberties and Priviledges . 3. The forme and manner of it is not ordinary , to hold in feudo , and inheritance without any duty , or reddendo , as they speake . 4 And last of all , the manner of infeftment and seasing ; not by earth and stone , but by pu●…ting a ring on his finger with the Kings owne hand , and thereby 〈◊〉 both himself and his heires ( as it should seem ) in this one action without reiterating . All which things how our Lawyers will allow of considering their formalities ; and what their opinion will be of the validitie hereof , I know not ; but we finde here plaine and square dealing , and honourable meaning : whatsoever the subtilties and quirks of Law be , we see an upright and loving Prince , a liberall and bountifull King , willing to honour a princely loyall subject . This and the former Charter given foure yeares before , and such others as may be thought to have beene given after to corroborate or increase ( perhaps ) these freedomes and priviledges , ●…s it whereunto Archbald the fourth and his successors have leaned and trusted to , in contemning Crighton and Levingston , at what time they told them they would preserve their owne rights and priviledges , and not suffer them to be infringed . And this also hath beene the ground upon which the Bailies of William the eighth Earle , he being himselfe in Italie , would not suffer the Kings Officers to meddle with these priviledged things in his bounds ; which men that know not their immunities particularly account treason and rebellion : and so their enemies did terme it , to incense the King against them . This battell at Biland was the last piece of service that Sir James did to Edward Carnarvan , who having found fortune so froward to him in chance of warre against the Scots , was thereby taught to doubt the triall thereof any further , and therefore he sued for peace , which was concluded at Newcastle to last for certaine yeares . In this time of peace , although all occasion of Warlike action was cut off , yet Sir James was not idle , but did good offices for his King and Countrey . K. Robert did esteeme so well of him , and had so good opinion of his prudencie and fidelitie , and did so confide in his love , that he entrusted and employed him in the greatest businesse that ever he could have to doe , which concerned no lesse than the settling of his Crowne , and his title to the kingdome , which Sir James performed dexterously and happily . For being sent into France to John Balliol of Hercourte to procure his resigning all title and right to the Crowne in King Roberts favour , he sailed into Normandie , and having declared his Commission , and delivered his message , he found Balliol very tractable , contrary to all mens expectation ; for he plainly and ingeniously confessed that he had been deservedly rejected and debouted , being no wise usefull nor profitable for the good of Scotland . He said likewise that it was Gods especiall and favourable providence , that had advanced K. Robert thereunto , and therefore he did not repine nor grudge , to see the Kingdome in the hands of his Cousin , by whose high vertue , singular felicity , and great travell , it was restored to the ancient liberty , splendour , and magnificence , but rather rejoyced thereat . And chiefly for that they by whom he was deceived , did not injoy the hoped fruits of their fraud . And calling together his friends and kinsmen in presence of them all , hee did freely resigne unto Robert , and to his heires , all right and title , that he , or any from , or by him , had or might have to the Crown of Scotland , renouncing all interest and claim whatsoever that could be alledged or pretended for any cause , or consideration , from the beginning of the world unto that present day . This being done , Sir James returned into Scotland . This King Robert thought fit to be done , not because his owne title was not good enough before , for it was good already and sufficient , and so found to bee by a better judge then King Edward of England , to wit , the Estates of the Realme , who are the rightest judges in controversies of this nature , and who had power to have made it good , if it had not been so , & might have helped any defect that had been in it , seeing Balliol by his owne fact had disabled himself , by giving it over to King Edward , especially seeing it was prejudiciall , and against the common liberty , and good of the Kingdome , to accept of him who had betrayed these , and was not able to defend them . Wherefore King Robert being in possession , and the Kingdome being confirmed to him , and to his posteritie , he needed no further right from Balliol : Notwithstanding of this , to cut away all pretences of quarrells and calumnies , that malicious men might surmise thereabout afterwards , he thought good to have a renunciation from Balliol of his title , and consolidate that with his owne : whereupon esteeming none fitter for the purpose then Sir James , as well for the honourable place he held , as for his sufficiency to discharge the Commission , not without some consideration of his kindred with Balliol , by the house of Galloway : he laid the charge upon him , which he performed as we have heard . Sir James being thus returned out of France , King Robert being very glad that his businesse had succeeded so well , called a Parliament at Cambuskenneth , in the which the right of succession to the Crowne was renewed to King Roberts heirs , and namely ( failing his sonne David ) to Marjorie Bruce his daughter , and Robert Stuart his sonne . This the Nobility did enact , and confirme by oath in the yeare ( 1325. or 1326. ) and before the sending of Sir James Douglas , as some Authours record . Not long after King Robert fell sick , and partly for that cause , partly in regard of his age , not being able to ride abroad and endure travel himself , he committed the managing of all businesse of weight both in peace and warre to the two Friends and Colleagues , Sir James and Randulph , two of the most noble Knights , and bravest Captains that were in their dayes , as our Writers do say . And now Edward the second was dead , and Edward the third had succeeded to him , to whom Sir James laboureth to do as good service , as he had done to his father . This Edward sent Ambassadours to King Robert to treat of peace , but being discovered to have no sincere meaning , and to deal fraudfully , in stead of peace they carried home warre . So due preparation being made on both sides , our two Commanders assembled to the number of 20000. all horse men : ( some say 20000. horse , and 5000. foot ) and entred into England with resolution not to fight but at their advantage and pleasure , which was the reason they took all or most part horse men , and few or no foote men . Against these King Edward came in person with a great Army of 100000. men , ( as Froysard writes ) 80000. horse , 24000. archers , having brought with him the Lord Beaumont out of the Low-Countries with 700. or 500 horse . The English souldiers of this Army were cloathed in coats , and hoods , embroydered with flowers and branches , and did use to nourish their beards ; wherefore the Scots in derision thereof , made this rime , and fastned it upon the Church doore of Saint Peter in the Canongate , beards hartlesse , painted hoods witlesse , gay coat gracelesse , make England thriftlesse . He fortified the Townes of Carlile and Berwick , and furnished them with men to stay the Scots passages . But they little regarding either his fortifications , or his forces , passed the water of Tine at knowne Foords , and made him first know of their arrivall by smoake and fire : whereupon putting his men in order , he marched directly towards those places that were smoaking , to have given them battell ; but not finding them there , and not knowing how to force them to fight , his resolution was to passe Tine , and there to entercept them at their returne , and to give them battell in those fields where the ground was more levell and even , and so fitter for his Armie . Thither then he goeth with great trouble and turmoiling both of men and horse , by reason of the great raine that fell , as also for scarcitie of victuall ; and after he had lien there eight dayes waiting for them , he could heare no newes of them : wherefore he chose out about sixteene able young men , whom he sent abroad into the Countrey to search for them , promising a great reward to him that should first bring him word where they were . They having roaved up and downe the Countrey , at last one of them fell into the hands of the Scots , who when he had told how K. Edward had sent him to search for them , they let him goe , and withall bid him tell the King , that they had beene eight dayes as uncertain of him , as he had bin of them , and that now they were come within 3. miles of him , where they would stay for him , and abide him battell , being as desirous to fight as he was . When the young man told the King this , he was rewarded with Knigthood , being made such by his owne hand ; and besides that he got 150. pound land to maintain his dignity . Then he gave order that his Army should march towards them ; but when they came neare , they found them so strongly encamped upon a hill , having steepe rocks at the one side , and a river on the other , called by Hollinshed the water of Weire , that they durst not adventure to assaile them at so great disadvantage : wherefore they sent a trumpet to them , and desired them to come downe to the plaine ground , and ●…o to fight with true vertue , for honour and empire , and not to sit on the tops of the hils , where no body could come at them . The Scots answered with derision , that they would not fight how and when it pleased their enemie , but at their owne pleasure ; telling him withall , that they were come into his Countrey , and had done as he knew , if any thing that they had done did grieve him , he might come and seeke his revenge : they would stay there as long as they thought meet and expedient for them , and if any should assaile them , they would do what they could doe to defend themselves , and make their enemies smart . So they stayed there three dayes in his view , but he not thinking it sase to assaile them in that place , after some few skirmishes at their watering place , the Scots removed their C●…mp to another place that was stronger and harder of accesse , which Hollinshed calls Stanhop parke , whither the English also followed them . While they lay there encamped the one over against the other , Sir James Douglas ( who was a provident and watchfull Captaine ) perceiving that the English watches were somewhat negligently kept ( either because they despised the small number of the Scots , or for that they thought they had no mind to fight , but to retire ) adventured upon a hazzardous but hardie and worthy enterprise : he did choose out two hundred of the choicest of his men , and passing the river in the night season , a little off from the English Camp , he entred the enemies Trenches on that side they least expected , and approached the Kings Tent , thinking either to have taken or to have slaine him ; but the Kings Chaplaine being awake , discovered him , whom he slew with his owne hand for his paines : and now the alarme was given , and the whole Armie was up against him : wherefore having only cut the Kings Tentroapes , he returned safe in spite of them , leaving 300. of them slaine in the place , who offered to hinder his retreat . Upon this show and omen of successe and good fortune , Thomas Randulph would have given them battell in the plaine fields , but Sir James advised him otherwayes , showing him how it was not for them , being so few in number , to deale with so great an Armie in the open and plaine fields , but that their onely way was to use slights and stratagems , and to keepe themselves in places of strength and advantage . To which purpose he told him the Apologue of the Fox , whom a Fisherman finding in his Lodge carrying away a Salmond to his denne for his young Cubs , he drew his sword , and stood in the doore to kill him , knowing he had no other way to get out . The Fox being thus straitned , went and tooke hold of the Fishers mantle ( which lay by ) and went toward the fire to cast it into it and burne it : the Fisher to save his mantle , ranne to the fire , and left the doore free , so that the Fox escaped out at the door , and in his way catched hold of the Salmond , and went cleare away withall , to the fishers great griefe , who had his mantle burnt , his Salmond lost , and the Fox escaped . Even so , sayes Sir James , it fares with us ; we have done these men harme , and they think they have us in the nouse , and in a mouse-trap , but I have espied a way , by which , though it may seeme somewhat hard and troublesome , we shall escape safe without the losse of a man. They continued still in the same place certaine dayes after this , without doing any thing of note or moment on either side ; for the English warned by their late danger , kept better watch then they had done before : and now having taken a Scottish prisoner , they were informed by him , that the host of the Scots was commanded to be in readinesse against the third watch to follow Sir James his standard . This put them to no small businesse , so that they presently armed , and stood all night ranked in order of battell , supposing that the Scots intended to make an onset , and assaile them in their Trenches , and therefore their Watches and Sentinels were doubled , and the Foords strongly guarded . But the Scots by this time were risen and departed , passing through a Mosse or Bogue two miles long , which was never passed before , especially by horsemen : but they had provided flaikes and hurdles , upon which they made the horse to passe without sinking , leading them in their hands , and walking on foot by them . About the breake of day two Scottish Trumpeters were brought to K. Edward , who were taken by his Scouts , and being come before him , told that they were commanded to suffer themselves to be taken thus , that they might tell him that the Scots were gone home , and that if he had a minde to be revenged on them for any thing they had done , he should follow them . But he considering of the matter , and weighing all things , and with what men he had to doe , being both valiant , and able to endure so much hardship , thought it his best to let them goe , and so he returned to London , having seene his Kingdome burnt and spoiled under his nose , for all his great Armie , and himselfe in the midst thereof in danger of his life , or of taking : which effronts he was forced to pack up at this time , not without great griefe and anger without all doubt . And this is the third piece of service done by that so despised man to the posterity of his despiser ; to his sonne before , and now to his grand-childe in the yeare 1327. or 28. neare unto Stanhop park ; which because it cannot be denied , Caxton alledgeth that it came to passe by the treason of Mortimer Earle of March , who being corrupted by the Scots with money , would not suffer ( saith he ) the Earle of Lancaster to passe the water , not very deep at that part to invade them , by which means they escaped . But our Major doth justly scorn that point of corrupting and bribing with money , and doth further affirme , that they had not any conference at all with Mortimer . So that it is likely , that what Mortimer spake in that matter of not following , or invading the Scots at their departure , he hath spoken it out of judgement , and not partiality ; and perhaps more prudently , then they that counselled the contrary . However they confesse that the King missed of his purpose , and being very pensive therefore , broke up his army and returned to London . Amongst other things , they tell that after the Scots were dislodged , some of the English went to view their Camp , partly to see their customes and manner of living , and what provision they had , partly to seek some spoil ; when they were come there , they found onely five hundreth carcasses of red and fallow Deare , a thousand paire of Highland showes called rullions , made of raw and untand leather , three hundreth hides of beasts set on stakes , which served for Caldrons to seethe their meat . There were also five English men who had their legs broken , and were bound naked to trees , whom they loosed and gave them to Chirurgions to bee cured . When they saw these things , and judged hereby how painfull and able to endure the Scottishmen were , they found that counsell to have been good and sound , which was given to their King not to follow them , whether it were Mortimers or some others . The English Writers upon this scarcitie and penury here found , and upon such other passages ( as when Edward the second entred Scotland , and was forced to returne for want of victualls , the King having caused remove all things out of his way ) take occasion to speake contemptuously of the Scots , as though they had not defended their Countrey by vertue and prowesse against England ( between it and which they think there is no comparison ) but partly by cold and hunger , partly because the English Kings did slight it , and were not desirous to conquer it : as also for the English forces were almost imployed in France , so that they had no leisure to bend their whole power against Scotland , which if they had done , they might easily ( as they think ) have mastered it . Imputing hereby the cause of their failing to do it , they having so great ods in number of men and warlike appointment , to want of will , and their hinderance by France , and the poverty of our Countrey , together with the roughnesse thereof ( being so Mountainous , and full of heaths and wasts , harder enemies then the inhabitants ) giving no place to the vertue and valour of the people , very absurdly and maliciously : for as touching the first , that they have had no desire of it , it is a childish alledgeance , when they see they cannot get a thing , to deny that they desire it . The great means they have used , the many attempts they have made , and that common and proverbiall speech so ordinary in their owne mouthes , and devised amongst themselves , ( Qui la France veut gagner , a l' Escosse faut commencer ) do testifie the contrary . And above all , their often intending a full conquest of it , as their owne Histories beare record . And as for the hinderance by France , their aides to Scotland have not been very great , nor very frequent ; yea , it may bee said justly , that France hath received more help then ever it gave : for since the league with Charlemaigne , it may be truely said without any poeticall hyperbole , nulla unquam Francis fulsit victoria castris , sine milite Scoto ; that the French armies never wanted Scottish souldiers , but the Scots have but very seldome had Frenchmen to helpe them . And if the Kings of England have sometimes bended their forces towards France , yet they did it not alwayes , but have made more warre in Scotland , when they had peace with France . And it is amongst the complaints of our Nation , that France have cast them into warres with England , when they might have had peace : Like as when they had advantage by warre , France did often wring their weapons out of their hands , and forced them to a disadvantagious peace , which was commonly the greatest fruits of their friendship and league . Now as for the difficulties of hills , hunger , &c. These are not so great as they talke of ; for neither is it altogether so poore , nor so hilly , and mountanous , as they would have it beleeved to bee ; and if King Robert at this time or any other at any time have caused spoil and waste in the Countrey at some times , thereby to famish or straiten the enemy , or have chosen to vexe or trouble them with a Camp volante to eschew the hazzard of a battell ( as Douglas and Randulph did at this time ) it hath been the practice of all warriours of all Nations : but neither hath it been , neither could it have been , the onely mean of conserving this Countrey in freedome , except manhood and valour had been joyned with it , and that in a great measure ; whereof sufferance and hardnesse to endure great straits , want , scant , cold , hunger , and travell is no little part . As on the contrary , not to be able to endure these , is effeminatenesse , the ordinary consequent of riches , wealth , ease , abundance and delicacie , all reprochfull to men . Even as the other ( I confesse ) are oft the consequences of povertie , and are helps to harden the bodies , and whet the courages of men . Wherefore if they had meant nothing else , but that the poverty of Scotland did preserve the liberty thereof , because it kept the inhabitants in continuall exercise both of body and minde , and did not suffer them to grow tender , delicate and effeminate , but hardned their bodies against want , and their minds and courages against perills and dangers , which they imployed for the defence of their Countrey , and by the which ( as the chief means under God ) they did defend it , we could well admit of it , and acknowledge as much poverty , ( that is to say , want of superfluity ) and vanity , invented by soft and womenly minds , and covered under the maske of civility , as hath begotten in them valour and temperance , as it is said to have done in many people before ; the Romanes , Macedonians , Turks , Parthians , Scythians , &c. But since that is not their meaning , but even to detract from their valour , they exprobrate their poverty , and casts it up for a reproach , to breed contempt of them in others , and to ascribe to it what is due to their worth ; to wit , the liberty , and preservation of their Countrey from all forrain enemies : we may say justly that it hath not been the immediate cause of their being preserved against England , Danes , or whatsoever enemy ; but that there hath been as much sufficiency of things necessary ( call it riches , or by what other name you list ) as hath moved other Nations ( especially England ) to covet it , and coveting to invade it , and when they had done their best , they were driven from it ; not so much by the barrennesse and roughnesse of the soyle , as by many and sad stroakes of the inhabitants thereof ; and by such acts and deeds , as became wife , valiant and couragious men . Touching all which , this one example will serve to confute whatsoever hath been , or can bee said in this kind , then which we need no other proof , and that is this same huge and great army raised by this King ( Edward the third ) and intending to have come into Scotland , if hee had not been thus affronted by Sir James and Randulph : and before in his fathers time at Biland , ( and which admitteth for no exception ) at Bannockburne . In all which there is no colour of want of will ; he showed it , he professed it , and presumed to devoure them in an instant ▪ No want of forces , having gathered from all Countreyes not onely his subjects , but his friends also : no scarcitie of victuall , hee had abundance of all things : no hills nor mountains , they met in the plain fields : no forrain aid on the Scots side that we heare of , besides the two Brabanders , that King Edward sent to help them . And so again whatsoever progresse , or appearance of conquest the English have made of Scotland , it was never by their valour and armes , but by the advantage of an intestine warre , they siding with the one party , and at last overcoming both , as did Edward the first , in the dayes of Balliol ; wherefore they make a wrong account , and much mistake the matter , that thinke the liberty of this Kingdome hath been maintained more by the wants of our soyle , want of will in our enemies , or of leasure in the English , then by the worth of our predecessours , if wee weigh things rightly . But the true way , and mean , by which our Countrey and liberty thereof have stood , and by which they have relieved and vindicated it , when it was thralled , are these we have spoken of ; by which also they procured peace at all times , and now also at this time . For the same yeare , in March Ambassadours came from Edward to treat of perpetuall peace , which the next yeare was concluded by the Parliament of England held at Northhampton : unto this Parliament for treating of Articles of peace , King Robert sent Sir James , with some Prelates , where it was concluded on these conditions : That the King of England should renounce all title and claime that he and his predecessours had ●…aid to the Crowne of Scotland , and deliver unto them whatsoever Bonds , Contracts , Writs or Evidents , they had for their pretended Title thereto . And should leave that Kingdome as free as it had been in the dayes , and at the death of King Alexander the third , from all bondage and servitude for time to come . That the Scots should also resigne to the English , all lands and possessions , which sometimes they had in England , or held of England in fealty , as beneficiars thereof , and that the Marches between the two Kingdomes should bee Cumberland and Northumberland , unto Stone-moore : That David sonne to King Robert should marry Jane , King Edwards sister , called by some Jane of the Tower , and by the Scots , Jane make peace , ( in derision ) and that King Robert should pay to Edward three thousand marks sterling , for the dammage done to his people in the late warres , by Sir James and Randulph , Earle of Murray . The first of these articles was presently performed , and the King of England delivered all the Writs and Evidents which hee had concerning his alledged superiority of Scotland , and amongst them an Indenture which they called Ragman ( saith Hollinshed ) and certain Jewels won from the Kings of Scotland , amongst which the blacke Crosiere or Rood was one . This peace the same Authour calleth unprofitable , and dishonourable , done by evil and naughty counsell . If it were dishonourable for England , it was so much the more honourable for the Scots that gave the peace . But the dishonour hee meaneth is the renunciation of his title to the Crowne of Scotland , whereof he had fair claiming . King Robert and the Scots had driven him out of his usurpation , and vindicated their liberty by force of armes . And as for his right and title in Law , the world knowes what small account Scotland ever made of his pretensions ; having never been subject unto any but to their owne King. Wherefore it was onely to take away all occasion of cavilling , and the better to keep peace with their neighbours , that they desired this surrender , as they had done before with Balliol , whose right notwithstanding carried a greater show of equity and reason , and truly it is not so much to be wondered at , that King Edward condescended to these Articles ; as it is that King Robert should have yeelded to them , being more unprofitable for him , then for the other : and a man would think it very strange that he should part with Northumberland , or give any moneys to recompense any dammage done in a just warre : and that there should not rather money have been given unto him , as a dowrie or portion with his daughter in law . But the time answereth it , hee was now of a good age , and unmeet for travel , and warres , being wearied with battells , and cloyed with victories , and ceased by sicknesse , he longed for peace to himself , and to his posteritie , but with what fidelity , and how little it was kept by King Edward , we shall heare hereafter . No aliance , nor bond of amity ( which ought but seldome doth tie Princes and great men ) could keep him from breaking of this peace . The marriage was solemnized at Berwick , with all the pompe that might bee , after which King Robert lived not a full yeare . A little before his death being at Cardrois , which stands over against Dumbarton on the other side of the water of Levin : whether hee had withdrawne himselfe by reason of his age and sicknesse , to live a private , and quiet life ; hee called his friends together , and made his last Will and Testament , in which having ordered all his other affaires , hee called to minde a vow that he had made to go into Syria , and there to fight against the common enemy of the Christian name : but because his warres before , and now his age and sicknesse would not suffer him to performe it in his owne person , hee recommended the performing of it to Sir James Douglas , requesting him earnestly to go and do it for him ; and withall , to carry his heart to Hierusalem , and there to bury it neare the holy Grave . This was esteemed a great honour in those dayes , both by Sir James himself and others , and withall a cleare and honourable testimony of the Kings affection towards him ; and so he interpreted it . Wherefore King Robert dying the 7. of July 1329. hee made himself ready , and prepared all things for his voyage very diligently ; yet there were some of the most judicious in those times , who tooke it to have a deeper reach ; and that ( however he did also respect Sir James , and thinke him the fittest for this businesse : ) his main designe was to prevent all dissention , which might have risen between these two great Captains , Douglas and Murray , Randulph to obviate the which , they thinke he devised to send Sir James out of the Countrey upon this honourable pretext . But there bee Authours that say , the King did not particularly designe Sir James by name , but desired his Nobles to choose one of his most noble Captains in the Realme for that effect , and that they after his decease laid it upon Sir James with one consent , who most willingly accepted thereof , as one ( who during King Roberts life ) had served the body wherein the heart had lodged . But whether the King desired him by name , or the Nobility did interpret the Kings meaning to be such ( under the title and description of the most noble Captain ) or that they themselves did deem him to be so ( as indeed he was most worthy ) so it was , that the charge was committed unto him , and he most gladly undertook it , when his presence was very needfull for the Countrey . For before he tooke journey , their fell out a matter that occasioned great troubles afterwards by Edward Balliol . One Lawrence Twine an English man borne , and one of those who had obtained lands in Scotland for reward of his service in the warres , a man well borne , but of a vitious life . This man after King Roberts death presuming of inpunite in respect of K. Davids youth , loosed the reignes to his licentious lewdnesse ; and being often taken in adultery , and admonished by the officiall of Glasgow when he would not abstain from his wickednesse , he was excommunicated ; wherewith being i●…censed , he tooke the officiall as he was riding to the towne of Aire , and kept him prisoner till hee was forced to redeeme his liberty with a summe of money . Sir James Douglas highly offended with this enormity , caused seek him , that he might be punished ; which Twine understanding , and fearing that he should not long escape his hands if he stayed within the Countrey , fled into France , and addressing himself unto Edward Balliol , he perswaded him to enterprise against the King of Scotland , and recover that which he had so good right to , and so faire an opportunity , which Balliol did in Sir James his absence , by his voyage , or after his slaughter in his voyage . And no question his absence was a strong inducement both to this Edward , and to Edward of England , to attempt the subduing of Scotland ; which he did thinke would prove 〈◊〉 , by making Randulph away ( which he sought to have done by poyson ) Sir James being absent . So that either the Kings devotion ( if it were indeed devotion or his pollicy , ( if it were but pollicie ) in sending of him out of the Countrey , is greatly condemned by our Writers . And to speake the truth it deserves to be condemned , having by so doing sent away so fit and usefull a man , denuding the Countrey of such a Captain in so doubtfull times ; whereas a Prelate or some other Churchman had been fitter for that imployment . And hee ought to have considered that England would be still aiming at the Crown of Scotland , notwithstanding of the late alliance : neither needed he to feare any emulation between Randulph and Sir James , there being such intire love in Sir James towards Randulph , that howsoever he contended with him in vertue , yet his contention was but in vertue , and ever within the bounds of modestie , love , and friendship , behaving himself to him as to his Comrade and Brother in armes , whereof hee had ever given in all the joynt services so evident proofe , especially at Bannockburne , where his love drew him out to have succoured him if there had been need , and the same love and candor ( so to call it ) or courtesie and modesty joyned with true magnanimitie , stayed him from going forward , that he might not arrogate to himself one share or parcell of that victory , whereby the others glory had been eclipsed . And when hee had gotten the victory , hee accompanied him joyfully unto the Camp , no lesse glad then if he had been victorious himself , farre from any hatefull or envious emulation : so that there was small reason to looke for any harme from such a disposition , or any inconvenience from such emulation , but rather to have expected much good from that his so well knowne affection and constancie both towards Randulph , and his native Countrey : however , hee out of his own worthie and good nature taking all in good part , hee passed on with his journey , taking with him two hundred Gentlemen of note , and ( as it is reported ) seaven hundred others . Amongst the Gentlemen of good qualitie , there was Sir William Sinclaire of Rosline , Sir Robert Logane of Rastaslrig , and Sir William Keith . De Froysard ( in his 20. Chapter ) reporteth that after his imbarking in Scotland he arrived at the Sluce , and stayed there some 12 dayes , where he kept such state and port , as if he had been King of Scotland : That he had in company with him , a Knight Banneret , and 7 other Knights of Scotland , and was served by twenty sixe young Squires and Gentlemen of good sort , all his vessels being of gold or silver : That all that came to see him of all sorts of people were ( according to their ranks ) well and plentifully served with all manner of vivers , wines and spices , the best that could be had . He saith also that in his return from Jerusalem , he arrived at the port of Valence the great in Spain , where indeavouring to assist Alphonsus the king thereof , who warred against the King of Granado , then a Saracen , he was there inclosed by an ambush of the enemie , and so lost his life . He carried with him to Hierusalem the Kings heart embalmed and put into a box of gold , which he solemnely buried before the high Altar there : and this is the reason why the Douglas beare the crowned Heart in their coat of Armes ever since . When he had performed this service to his dead Master , he went with such company as he had brought with him , and joyned himself unto such other Christian Princes , as at that time were gathered with great power out of sundry parts of Christendome , to warre against the Infidels ; where he did so notable service , that by his frequent victories , he wan great honour to the Christian name . At last , having accomplished things in those parts with no lesse fame and glory , then Princely Magnificence , he embarked for Scotland , but was cast by storme of weather upon the Coast of Spain , and forced to go a shore on the borders of Granado , where at the same time hee found the King of Arragon fighting against the Saracens that inhabited these parts : Sir James offered to the King to serve him in those warres , and so fought against the enemy valiantly , and with great successe at divers times ; till at last having conceived too great contempt of the enemy , esteeming them no Warriours , he became somewhat too carelesse and secure , so that he was inclosed in an ambush , and slain , with all that were about him : his bones were embalmed and sent home to Scotland , and buried in the Church of Douglas , called Saint Brides Kirk . And thus he died in the yeare 1330. the 20. of August , the next yeare after King Roberts decease . As for his vertues , his actions have declared him sufficiently , yet these in speciall are to be observed : In his youth he was carefull to inable and fit himselfe for imployment , by the study and exercise of letters , and all good and commendable arts , whereby his mind contracting a good habit , was solidly fixed upon the vertues of modesty and sobernesse , and emptied of all envie ; which hardly and very seldome are joyned with these great vertues of courage and magnanimity in a Military spirit and life , which commonly do hinder another . In his riper years we may see his perfect practice of them against the enemy , and towards his friends : In action he was bold , resolute , couragious , strong , diligent , and advised ; and such every way as a stout Souldier or worthy Commander ought to be . Out of action , and in private converse , he was toward , affable , gentle , and courteous unto all : hee was loving to his Countrey , loyall , faithfull and obedient to his Soveraigne ; he contended in vertue with his equalls , free from envie and hatred against any , and through the course of his whole life , without stain or blemish that wee heare of . He is reckoned to have been in battells and incounters against the English fiftie seaven times , against the Saracens and other Infidels thirteene times ever victorious ; thrice as often as hee had been yeares in action , which were about twenty foure from King Roberts Coronation . 1306. untill the time of his death in 1330. which if it be so , wee may see how many things were omitted by our Writers , all that are set down being farre short of that number . Wherefore it is no marvell , if in such a continuall course of victories , some confidence crept upon him ; and if accustomed to so hard enemies , and good warriours , as the English , and Scots that sided with them ( as commonly those are , who are born and bred in in the Northern parts of the world ) he disesteemed and slighted the Saracens and Southern softnesse , weaknesse and effeminacie in respect thereof , whereby he fell into this Ambush , which was his death . Now as in these respects it is somewat to be pardoned , so is this use to be made of it , that we despise no enemy however inferiour , and to eschew too much confidence and presumption in whatsoever advantage , which hath been the ruine and losse of many worthy men . He is said to have been of a black and swart complexion , and to have lisped somewhat in his speech . We heare nothing either in History , or Monument , or otherwise of his marriage : he had two base or naturall sonnes , William Lord of Liddesdale ( of whom we shall speake hereafter ) and one Archbald , whom the Lord of Liddesdale made Captain of the Castle of Edinburgh , when hee tooke it in . To conclude , let this bee observed , that Sir James is never mentioned by any either English or Scottish Writer whatsoever , but with honour and commendation , as worthy , valiant , noble , good , or some such Epithete ; and confessed to have beene one of the most valiant that lived in his dayes . Such is the force of vertue , and so prevalent is it , even with enemies . We will not omit here ( to shut up all ) the judgement of those times concerning him , in an old rude verse indeed , yet such as beareth witnesse of his true magnanimity , and invincible mind in either fortune , good or bad . Good Sir James Douglas ( who wise , and wight , and worthy was ) Was never overglad for no winning , nor yet over sad for no tineing , Good fortune and evil chance , he weighed both in one ballance . Jacobus Duglassius Brucii Regis socius omnium laborum in Hispania coesus a Saracenis , 1330. Quicquid sors potuit mortali in pectore ferre Vel facere , hoc didici perficere , atque pati . Prima ubi luctando vici , sors affuit ausis Omnibus , & quid non pro patria ausus eram ? Hosti terror ego : nullus me terruit hostis : Consiliis junxi robora dura meis . Proelia quot numerat , titulos , actosque triumphos Brucius , hinc totidem pene trophaea mihi . Quo jam signa feram ? major quaerendus & orbis Atque hostis ; famam non capit iste meam . Arma Saraceno objeci prope littora calpes Herculeae , hic tellus me male fausta tegit . Herculeae Graecis memoretur Gloria laudis , Fallor an Herculeis stant potiora mea . In English thus , What ever weight in furious Fortune laid On weak mans breast , I suffered undismaid , Nor lesse my active force ; and when I tri'd Her power in warre , propitious fate deny'd No help ; whiles my endeavours well did prove How much I dared for my Countreys love . A terrour to my foes ; I knew no feare , Wisedome and valour both united were In me . And looke what triumphs great Bruce gain'd , As many Trophies were by me obtain'd . What more remaineth to increase my name ? The world appears too little for my fame . To Spain my aid I gave , and did oppose The Saracen , there was the fatall close Of my brave life , wher't may be questioned much If Hercules his Monuments were such . Of Hugh the fourth and ninth Lord of Douglas . UNto this Sir James his brother germane Hugh Douglas did succeed , the ninth Lord , and fourth of that name . Of this man , whether it was by reason of the dulnesse of his minde , or infirmity of his body , or through whatsoever occasion else , wee have no mention at all in History of any of his actions , onely it is certain that he succeeded , and was Lord of Douglas , which he demitted ( in favour of his brother Archbald , slain at Halidoun hill ) to his sonne William , who was the first Earle of Douglas , as shall be showne in his life . The honour of the name and dignity of the house was upheld by his brother Archbald Lord of Galloway , of whom therefore we are now to speake . This Hugh lived after the death of his brother Archbald ( which was 1333. ) some nine or ten years , till the 1343 ▪ as the Charter of resignation of the Lordship to his nephew doth witnesse . He died without children , and was never married . Of Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway , Governour of Scotland , third brother to Sir James . BEfore we proceed to speak of the next Lord Douglas , the time , and order of the History requireth that we speake of Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway ; and Governour of Scotland : he was third brother to good Sir James , as Boetius affirmeth in these words ; Archibaldus Duglasius Germanus Jacobi de Douglas , quem nuperrime in hispania interiisse scripsimus . This Archbald did outlive Sir James not above three yeares , as we shall show hereafter . Neither is the losse of the battell wherein he died , imputed to his youth , but to his haste and indignation . And in the battell of Annand , he shewed wisedome and advisednesse sufficiently . Touching his education , there is no mention thereof in History : he married Dornagilla daughter to Red John Cummin , whom King Robert slew at Dumfrees . This John Cummin was stiled Lord of Galloway , having married a daughter of Allane Lord of Galloway , called Mary , whose elder sister Dornagilla , John Balliol had married : and therefore he is also stiled Lord of Galloway . There was also a third of these daughters married ( as our Writers say ) to the Earle of Abermale : it seemeth the lands of Galloway ( Lord Allane dying without heires male ) have been divided among the three sisters : as for his third wee finde nothing else of her . This Archbald having married John Cummins daughter , the inheritrix of the lands of Galloway , was imployed in the warre against Edward Balliol , whom he defeated and chased to Roxburgh , whereupon for this service , and also by another title which hee claimed as nearest to the house of Galloway by his Grandmother , the Earle of Carricts sister , ( which right wee have deduced at large in the life of Lord William the third maker of the Indenture ) Balliol being forfaulted , hee obtains the lands of Galloway , as Evidents and Histories beare record , stiling him Archibald Lord of Galloway , which continued in his posterity untill the forfeiture of the Earles of Douglas . Some alledge that Red John Cummin did not marry the Lord of Gallowayes daughter Marie , but a daughter of John Balliol of Harcourt in Normandy , called Adama , whom he begot on his wife Dornagilla , who was daughter to Allane Lord of Galloway : but how came Red John to stile himself Lord of Galloway , seeing his wife was Adama Balliol , who had brothers , at least one , to wit , John Balliol that was Competitor with Bruce . However it was , Archbald Douglas having chased Edward Balliol , and Balliol being forfeited , was made Lord of Galloway . This Archibald had by his wife , Dornagilla Cummin , two sons , William , who succeeded to his Uncle Hugh in the Lordship of Douglas , and was created Earle of Douglas , and Archibald after Lord of Galloway : hee had also a daughter called Marjory married to Thomas Earle of Marre . We have heard in the life of good Sir James , how King Robert Bruce before his death had taken all pains for establishing the Kingdome to his posterity , and to leave it peaceablie unto them , and had done for that effect what the wit of man could devise : he had beaten out his enemies by armes , he had ratified and confirmed his right by the Lawes and Act of Parliament , he had obtained a renunciation of all title and claim he could pretend , from John Balliol his Competitor : he had gotten also the like renunciation of the King of England , and all Evidents , Writs , and Monuments concerning his pretences delivered up unto him ▪ discharged and cancelled , and declared to be null , and of no value , by consent of the English Parliament , and ( to be the surer of King Edwards friendship ) he had married his sonne David to Jane his sister . He had cut off the rebellions that were springing up against him , by executing such as were guiltie , established Randulph Tutor and Protector to his sonne , and Governour of the Countrey , hee had removed all occasion of emulation , that might have falne out therein , and setled all with good advice , good precepts , good councell in his Testament , both for peace among themselves , and warre against the enemy . But what is the wit of man , and how weak a thing are his devices ! or what bonds will bind whom duety cannot binde ? This same Balliol , whose father had renounced his right ( nothing regarding what his father had done ) renewed his claim to the Crown . This same King of England , who had himself solemnly renounced , who had bound up friendship with the most sure and strongest bonds that can bee amongst men , regarding neither his resignation made , nor his affinity and alliance , nor any dutie towards God , or faith and promise to man , used all means to strip his brother-in-law ( by consequent his sister ) out of the Kingdome of Scotland ; as if nothing were unlawfull , that could fill up the bottomlesse gulf of his ambition . First , he caused an English Monke ( under colour of giving Physick for the gravell ) to poyson the Governor Thomas Randulph Earle of Murray ; and afterward aided Edward Balliol with 6000. English , upon condition that Balliol should hold the Crowne of him . Edward Balliol entering Scotland with these forces , and being assisted by the male-contents in Scotland , prevailed so , that having wonne a battell at Duplin ( 13●…2 . the 22. of September , the third yeare after the death of King Robert , and about one yeare after the death of Randulph ) in which many were slain , to the number of 3000. together with Duncane or Donald Earle of Marre , the Governour ; hee was Crowned at Scone , and these of the Bruces side constrained to send their King ( David Bruce with his wife ) into France , having no safe place at home to keep him in . After his Coronation , having taken in divers places that stood out against him , he went at last to Annand , receiving such as would acknowledge him , and taking their oath of Allegeance and Fidelitie . Whereupon Andrew Murray Earle of Bothwell ( chosen Governour after Marres death ) sent Archbald Lord of Galloway to see what hee could do against Balliol in these quarters : he taking with him his nephew William Douglas Lord of Liddesdale , and John Randulph ( the Governour Randulphs sonne ) together with Simeon Fraser , having in company with them a thousand horse , went first to Mophet , and having there understood of Balliols carelesse discipline and securitie , departing from thence in the night , he came so suddenly to Annand where Balliol lay , that he escaped very narrowly , being halfe naked ( not having leasure to put on his cloathes ) and riding upon a barme horse unsadled , and unbridled , till he came to Carlile . Others write , that howbeit he came very quietly to have surprised the enemy at unawares in the night time , yet they had notice of his coming , and issued forth of the Towne with a great army , where they fought long , and stoutly , till at last Balliol was overthrowne , and fled . There were slain many of his friends , and amongst these , Henry Balliol ( who behaved himselfe very manfully ) John Mowbray , Walter Cummin , Richard Kirbie . Robert ( or Alexander ) Bruce Earle of Carrict , ( and sonne to Edward King of Ireland ) was taken prisoner , and obtained pardon by the intercession of his Cousin John Randulph . Hollinshed writeth , that somewhat before this time the friends of David Bruce understanding that Balliol did sojourne within the Towne of Perth , had besieged it , but that they were constrained to raise the siege , because of the men of Galloway , who having bin sometimes the Balliols dependers , invaded the besiegers lands under the conduct of Eustac●… Maxwell ; whereupon hee saith , Archbald Lord of Galloway , with the Earle of March and Murray , invaded Galloway with fire and sword , and brought away great booties , but slew not many men , because they got them out of the way , for feare of that terrible invasion . This narration may bee true in the last part thereof concerning their invasion , but the cause of this invasion is not probable : that the men of Galloway should invade mens lands that lay so farre from them , as they behoved to be , that did besiege Saint Johnston ; for in all liklihood it was besieged by these that were nearest to it , being in kinne , and friends to those that were slain in Duplin ; and both ●…ollinhed himself , and others , write that it was recovered in Balliols absence about the same time , while he sojourned in Annand , by those that lay neare to it , without mentioning any other siege before that at which it was taken . This battell at Annand so changed the case , that hee who even now was Crowned King ( in September ) who had farre prevailed , to whom all men ( even King Davids nearest friends and kinsmen ) had yeelded , ( despairing of his estate ) was by this act of Archbald Lord of Galloway turned quite out of his Kingdome and Countrey , and compelled to fly into England , to save his life , the 25. of December the same yeare , about three moneths after his Coronation , and was compelled to keep his Christmas at Carlile in the house of the Friers Minors . A notable example of the inconstancy of worldly affairs , and constancy of an honest heart in the Douglas , not abandoning his Princes cause , when others had forsaken it , and also a proof of his good service , and usefull ; for which as he deserved perpetuall praise and favour of his rightfull Prince , so did he incurre great hatred of his enemie , the usurping Balliol ; who the next day after ( the 26 of December ) going into Westmoreland , and there being honourably received by the Lord Clifford , gave unto him the whole lands of Douglasdale , which the said Lord Cliffords grandfather had before in the dayes of King Edward the first . So proudly did he presume , to give that which was not in his power : And so little had he learned the lesson of the uncertaintie of humane affairs , grounded on whatsoever power , appearance , or even successe : and so difficult a lesson it is to learne , where there remains means so great as hee trusted to , the power of the King , and Kingdome of England , with his owne particular friendship and faction within the Countrie of Scotland , which shall indeed have power to trouble the State a while , but not to establish either the Kingdome to himselfe , or any part of Douglasdale to the Lord Clifford . The next yeare , 1333. K. Edward of England having shaken off all colour of duty to his brother-in-law K. David , made open warre to be proclaimed betweene the two Countreyes , which turned on all hands to the disadvantage of Scotland , even upon both the Marches . For the Lord of Liddisdale was taken prisoner on the West hand , he having the charge of that quarter : and Murray the Governour on the middle March was taken likewise at the Castle of Roxburgh , by pursuing the victorie too farre on the bridge , and so excluded from his owne . King Edward took openly upon him the protection of Balliol , having caused him to sweare homage to him , and so with a great Army both of his owne subjects and forreiners , came in person and sate downe before Berwick , and besieged it , both by sea and land . Hereupon the Nobility of Scotland choose Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway to be Governour , and Generall of the Army , advising him to enter England , and to spoile it with fire and sword , so to force K. Edward to rise from before Berwick , and leave the siege . And this whilest he was about to have done , he is advertised from within the Towne , that Sir Alexander Seaton Governour thereof had made a paction with K. Edward to render th●… Towne , if he were not succoured by the Scots before the first of August next , and for performance thereof had given him his sonne and heire in pledge and hostage . Hereupon the Lord Governour changeth his purpose , fearing the losse of the Towne , and against the opinion of the wisest of his Armie , 〈◊〉 directly towards Berwick , and the third day after he set forth , he came within the sight both of his friends and foes . Before this King Edward ( besides Thomas Seaton , who was given him in pledge ) had taken also Alexander Seaton , another son of the Governour of Berwick ( whilest at a sally out of the Towne he followed upon the enemy too eagerly ) and had now both the brothers in his power , the one a pledge , the other a prisoner . He therefore seeing now that the Towne was like to be relieved , sent to the Captaine , certifying him plainly , that unlesse he did render the towne forthwith into his hands , both his sons should be hanged immediately upon a gibbet in ●…ight of the Towne before his eyes . The Captaine returned him answer , that the dayes of Truce were not yet expired , and therefore desired him either to keep the covenant he had made , or else deliver the Hostages , and be at his advantage . When the King could not prevaile with him , nor breake him off his resolute constancie ( to which his vertuous and generous Lady did also notably encourage him ) he was as good as his word , and performed indeed what he had threatned , against the law of Nations , and against all humanitie , hanging them up almost in the very sight of their Parents , who bore it patiently and constantly for the good of their Countrey , and thought their childrens lives well bestowed in that regard : onely that they might not be beholders of so heavie a spectacle , they retired themselves to their chamber apart . This strange , tyrannicall , barbarous , and monstrous fact is suppressed in the Histories of England , and buried in silence , not unwisely , it being capable neither of defence nor excuse ; and yet is contrary to the lawes of Histories , and the duty of an Historian , who ought ( according to the oath of witnesses ) to tell all the truth , and nothing but the truth ; seeing where the truth is either adulterated or suppressed , the life of History is lost , which consists in particular circumstances , truly related . Neither do I see how this same King ( in the end of his life ) can pertinently and justly be called courteous and gentile , after such a fact , whereof few the like have fallen into the hands of the cruellest Tyrants that ever were recorded in story . And for my part I think certainly , that it is not possible that one who is of a nature truly gentile and courteous , should commit and be guilty of so foule a crime . It is a perpetuall blot and unexcusable , and such as no wit can wash away . So it is still , and so let it ever be branded and detested . So it was by our Governour the Lord of Galloway , and so much did it move him , and so farre stirre up his noble indignation , that he thought he could never be exonered with credit , without avenging of it , or spending his life in the quarrell , and so being resolved to fight , he would never give eare to any counsell on the contrary , nor alter his determination for any difficulty that could be proposed . And now K. Edward ( after that unpleasant spectacle , detested even by the English themselves ) had drawne up his Army , and taken a hill to the west of Berwick , called Halidoun hill , a place very advantageous for him ; and the Scottish Army did stand over against them in battell aray . The Governour commanded to march up the hill , and to invade the English where they stood , altogether against the counsell of the best advised , who both before , considering the inequalities of the Armies , both in number ( they being but few in respect of the English ) and in experience ( being for the most part young and raw souldiers , not yet trained ) had disswaded him from fighting any at all , and now seeing the odds , and inequality of ground , would gladly have opposed themselves thereunto . But all was in vaine : he was so incensed with that so detestable fact , that boiling with anger , and desiring of revenge , and trusting to the goodnesse of his cause , and to the forwardnesse of his Armie , who being inflamed in the like anger , upon the same occasion , were very desirous to joyne battell , esteeming that their earnestnesse of minde would supply their want of skill , and overcome all other difficulties , and thinking in himself , that if having bin a spectator of that vile and cruell murther , he should turne his backe without fighting , it would be accounted cowardise ; he prosecuted his resolution , and commanded to march forward , which was accordingly performed . They were first to descend and go down from a little hill on which they stood , then through a valley , and so to climbe up another hill so steepe that one man may ( as Major saith ) keepe downe foure , such is the scituation thereof on the west side . Wherefore the Scots , ere they could come to stroakes , were almost overwhelmed with shot and stones ; when they were come up , being quite out of breath , and charged from the higher ground , they were borne downe with violence , and slaine . Some write that the first joyning of the battell was at the foot of the hill , upon more even ground , but that the English gave somewhat back towards the side and ascent of the hill , and having gotten that advantage of the rising of the hill , made a fierce onset upon the Scots , who pursued them too rashly , supposing the English had fled , by which meane they were utterly overthrowne . There died of the Scots in this battell 10000. others say 14000. the English writers say 30000. A rare hoast amongst the Scots , though the Countrey had not been divided in it selfe : and there were but few more then 30000. when they overthrew the King of England with his invincible Army at the renowned battel of Bannockburn : but such is the custome and forme of their Writers , to extoll their owne facts , and to lessen their neighbours , for they say there were slaine onely at Bannockburne of the English 10000. and at this battell but 15. how apparently let the Reader judge . Our Writers say there was no small number of them slain , and that it was fought with great courage , neverthelesse of this inequality : neither did the Scots turne their backs , or give ground , untill their Generall ( fighting valiantly in the midst of them ) was slaine . There died with him John , James , and Allane Stuarts , sons to Walter Stuart , in his owne battell , the Earle of Rosse , to whom he had committed the Vauntguard , with Kenneth Earle of Sutherland , Alexander Bruce Earle of Carrict , Andrew , James , and Simon Frasers . Few were taken prisoners , and such as were taken , by the commandment of K. Edward were beheaded the next day , against the law of armes : some few were saved by their keepers , who were more covetous of their ransome , then of their bloud . Such cruelty did this gentile nature practise before the battell ( upon the Seatons ) in the the chase ( upon the flyers ) and after the battell ( upon the prisoners ) in cold bloud . But his aime was to make a full conquest of Scotland , which did faile him notwithstanding . This battell was fought July 22. 1333. called Magdalens day , accounted , by the superstition of the people , unfortunate for Scotland . Thus died Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway fighting for his Countrey : his love thereof , his indignation against so inhumane a fact is commendable : his magnanimitie likewise and valour is such as became his house : his conduct is blamed , and the cause thereof , whether it were anger or errour : his anger or desire of revenge , though the cause be never so just , should have beene bridled and tempered , and so governed , with such wisedome as might have effected a due punishment indeed , and not so headie , as to have precipitated himselfe and the Countrey into extreme danger and ruine , whilest he sought revenge . Or if it were errour , and too much relying upon the forwardnesse of his Army , that indeed is a thing not to be neglected , but to be taken hold of , and made use of , yet it ought not to be so farre trusted , but well imployed , and managed with judgement , as a good addition to other meanes and helps , but not that the whole hope of the victorie should be grounded and hang upon it alone ; farre lesse ought it to be made use of when there is too great odds . In which case it serves but for a spurre to set us on to our more speedy ruine . If it were feare that he should be thought a coward if he did not fight that moved him , his feare was needlesse : he had given good proofe of it before , and might have given more thereafter : he should have remembred that he was a Generall , and Leader , in whom want of wisedome and government were as much to be blamed as fearefulnesse . He was also a Governour , in whose safety the Kingdome was interessed , and who ought to have regarded the good thereof . In this ballance he should have weighed things , and should have done according to it , though with hazzard of a sinister report for a while , which might easily have beene recovered in the owne time . Concerning which , and all idle fame , and vaine opinion of ignorant people , we have that notable example of that worthy Fabius Maximus , the Romane Captaine , who neither by the provocation of the enemie , nor importunitie of the souldiers , nor disgracefull rumours scattered among the people , as if he durst not have fought , or had colluded with Hanniball , and other such slanders , could be moved to fight but at a convenient time . Nay rather then he would doe it , he suffered the halfe of his Armie to be taken from him , and given to his Lieutenant , as the hardier man than he , who both durst , and would fight , as he bragged . And so he did indeed upon the first occasion , but with such foole-hardinesse , as that he had both lost himselfe , and his whole Army , if Fabius had not come in time to his rescue ; who at that fit time of fighting shewed in effect both what he durst in manhood , and what he could do in wisedome ; and easily made those fond rumours to vanish , to his perpetuall glory , the confuting and confounding of his Competitour , and confession and acknowledgment of his worth from those who had blamed him before . Not unlike to this was the saying of great Scipio the Africane , who being reproached by a certain man that he was not so forward a fighter as he could have wished ( though in very deed he was forward enough ) daigned him with no other answer , but that his mother had borne him to be Commander , not a fighter ; thinking that a Captaines chiese honour is to command well , and to choose fit times , places , and meanes for fighting . And not to goe any farther ; we heard before in good Sir James his life , how little he was moved at the English Heralds demands , who desired ( in the Kings name ) that he would fight him on the plaine field , upon equall ground , if he had either vertue or honour . Sir James sent him away with derision , as one that had made a foolish request , telling him , that a good Captaine should account it his honour not tofight for his enemies request , but as he found most expedient and convenient for himselfe , in wisedome , choosing the forme , the field , the time , the place , and all for the advantage of his Army , and giving no advantage to the enemy whereof he could possibly hinder him . And this I have insisted upon so much the more , because many that are of good spirits otherwise , do oftentimes erre in this false opinion , and thereby doe both lose themselves and their honours . So that while they affectate to be called hardie fighters , doe prove indeed to be foolish Captains , and ill Commanders , and so doe not eschew reproach , but incurre it . Neither get they the honour of valour , which they seeke , but the blame of temeritie and rashnesse , which they should avoid . So that the Writers speaking of this fact , doe all of them condemne it , and brand it with a note of ill conduct ; and some of them say in expresse termes , Archbald Lord of Galloway was not valiant ( in this case ) but temerarious and foolish ; very truly and wisely , to warne others to take heed , and beware of failing in the like kinde ; very soberly and respectively , restricting it to this particular onely , and in this case leaving him his due praise and commendation in his other actions , as ye have heard hee very well deserved . This defeat drew on with it the surrendring of the Towne of Berwick ( the next day after ) by Sir Alexander Seaton , and of the Castleby Patrick Dumbarre Earle of March , lives and goods safe , themselves giving their Oath of allegeance and fealty to the K. of England . He commanded the Earle of March to re-edifie the Castle of Dumbarre , which he , being not able to keepe it , had demolished , that it might not be a receit to the English . And within a short time this overthrow had wellnigh overthrowne the Kingdome , and the cause : for the greatest part of the Nobilitie , that were not dead before , being slain in this conflict , the rest flying to save themselves , to strengths & desa●…ts ; Balliol assisted by Robert Talbot ( a Noble man of England , whom the King had left with him , with a few English bands ) being aided by his Favourers in Scotland , made himself once more King , and was confirmed by Parliament , within half a yeare after he had been driven out . All yeelded obedience to him , save onely foure Castles , to wit , Loch-leven , Dumbarton , Kildrummie , Urwhart and Lowdon peele , seated on a little lake ; so that no man in Scotland durst call David Bruce their King , except young children in their playes : so far were matters altered by this check ! Where it is to be marked , that as by the wise and wary government of the same Archbald , his Countrey and lawfull King were defended , and Balliol chased out of his usurped Kingdome : So by the same mans oversight in government , both the usurping Edwards ( English and Scots ) are repossessed again therein , and his Countrey plunged into misery , and the rightfull King and his partners brought to great extremitie . Of so great efficacie is good , or evill government : therefore it is so much the more circumspectly to bee looked to , and to bee exercised according to the rules of wisedome , and not after the opinions of men , fame , and reports , anger , or whatsoever other cause doth make men stray from the right and strait course of reason . This was the lamentable condition of our Countrey : But let us have patience a while , and wee shall shortly have better newes . Both these usurpers shall ere long bee driven to let go their hold , and at last be utterly disappointed of all their hopes and projects ; God conserving the liberty of this Countrey , and the Crowne thereof to the rightfull heire , and the Bruces bloud , in whose posterity it shall yet prosper . In which work no little part shall bee the valiant and faithfull efforts of the Douglasses . Amongst whom it were requisite to speake of the next Lord Douglas : But the order of time draws me another way : it being long before his turne come in , even tenne or twelve , or perhaps twentie yeares , as shall be seen in the owne p ace , for hee hath been young ( it should seeme , ) and abroad out of the Countrey , but in his absence some other of the Douglasses must not be idle . Archibaldus Duglasius ad Halidonem coesus , 1333. Non potuit perferre nefas , foedamque Tyranni Perfidiam . Et quisnam sustinuisse queat ? Ergo furens animi , atque accenso pectore inardet Praelia , & ingratas increpat usque moras . Poscimus aut aequo ( dixit ) certamine Martem , Aut certum est fatis cedere velle tuis . Ah nimis ! ah properant ! Non illis ignea virtus Defuerat : nocuit praecipetasse nimis . Nec te victorem jactes , temeraria virtus Sic nocuit . Vinci vis animosa nequit . In English thus , He was not patient enough to see The Tyrants faithlesse fact ( and who could be ) Hence his enflamed breast with anger sweld , Enrag'd at such impediments as held His hand from just revenge . Come let us trie Our chance , and winne the field , or bravely die , If fate will have it so , he said : and all With too much haste obey'd their Generall . No courage wanted , but the hard event Prov'd the act rash , and lose the punishment Of ill rul'd valour . Thou didst nothing gain . Who to his passion yeelds commands in vain . Of William Douglas Lord of 〈◊〉 , called the flowre of Chevalrie . BEfore we proceed to the rest of the Lords of Douglas , the order of the History requires , that wee speake something of William , not Lord of Douglas , but Lord of Liddesdale , and a worthy member of the house and name of Douglas . The first mention of him , and his actions , is at the battle of Annand , where hee was with Archbald , Lord of Galloway . The last of his actions of importance are in the beginning of the first Earle William , before the battle of Durham the space of thirteen yeares or thereby : which time hee imployed for his lawfull King and Countrey against the usurpers , so diligently as shall bee deduced in the progresse of this Story . Writers call him naturall sonne to Sir James slain in Spain , which is truth : But they erre when they say that John Lord Dalkeith was brother to William Lord of Liddesdale , hee being Liddesdales uncle , and Sir James brother , so master John Major hath Davidis , for Gulielmi , and Hollinshed , and 〈◊〉 William for Archbald , who was made Captain of the castle of Edinburgh , by this same William . But it is so clear and manifest whom they mean of , that there is no question to be made of it . However it be , he hath so honoured and nobilitated himself by his vertue , that no posteritie needs to enquire of his birth . We finde that he was married to a daughter of Sir John Grahame , Lord of Abercorne , called Margaret Grahame , by whom he got the lands of Liddesdale , he had but one onely daughter ( Mar●… ) who was married to Sir James of Lowden , who after the Lord Liddesdales his death , and Marga●…t Grahames , got the lands of Liddesdale . His first appearing , to wit , at the battell of Annand , hath been spoken of : after that hee was for his wisedome and manhood accounted worthy to have the custody and government of the West Marches , ●…s the charge of the East Marches was committed to Patrick Du●… . Being Wairden there , hee had his residence at Annand , where at a certain skirmish with the English , his men were scattered , himself was hurt and taken prisoner , about that same time that Regent Murray was taken at Roxbrough , to wit , in the yeare 1332. before the battell of Halidoun hill , which was the occasion that he was not there with his uncle Archbald , Lord of Galloway . He continued a prisoner untill 1335. and then he and Murray were both set at libertie , having payed a great summe of gold for their ransome . It is strange that these two great Politicians ( the two Edwards I mean ) intending a conquest of Scotland , should have suffered such men to bee set at liberty at any rate , without making them sure to their side ; considering that the detaining of them would greatly have facilitate their designes : and their liberty , being enemies , hinder and annoy them , as we shall heare it did not a little . It was apparently the pride of their hearts in that good successe , which made them carelesse and secure , not fearing any danger from these or any else . So doth successe and pride growing thereupon commonly blind men : or so doth God blinde the ▪ wisedome of unjust men , when hee hath a work to do against them . But before wee come to the rest of the deeds of this valorous Lord , we must take a view of the estate of things at that time , that the circumstances ( which are the life of History , and light of actions ) being knowne , the actions themselves may be the better considered . We have heard how desperately things went on the Brucian ( which was the onely right ) side : hee that was lawfull King durst not bee named , nor there was none that durst do so much as once offer to call him King , but the little children in their play , who still stiled him so ; whether by a naturall inclination to their rightfull Prince , or by some spark of Divine inspiration joyned therewith , who can tell ? or who knowes these things ? what motions will either remain of old or spread of new in the hearts of men , where Gods work is to be done ? wise men keep silence , and therefore the stones behoved to cry out , and foolish simple babes beare witnesse that the Bruce was King , for all the usurpers confidence and crueltie : no doubt , it was with great derision , and contempt of the hearers , but the event did justifie it , that it had a secret mover . No man saw the means how it could come to passe , but means will not be wanting , where a work is to be done . This ought to be a heartning to good subjects in their lawfull Princes quarrell , and for good men in all good causes , not to despaire for want of means . Let men do their best , means will come from whence they least dream on : Perhaps it will fall out so here in this case : Out from among the midst of the enemies the first glimpse of deliverance doth arise . There were that conspired against the Bruce to wrack him , and the Countrey , England and the Balliols faction in Scotland , and those had overrunne all . There comes a blink of favour , and hope from Rome , by the procuring of France . The Pope sends to King Edward of England , to desist from invading of Scotland , but that evanished without effect : pride had so farre prepossessed his heart , that he thought himselfe sure to make a conquest of Scotland , pleasing himself in his owne conceit , and supposing Scotland neither durst , nor could ever make head against him hereafter : wherefore he will not do so much as give the Ambassadours leave to come into his sight . A manifest contempt , not so much of the people , as of the voyce of equity and reason : But he called it reason what he had ability to doe : ( Stat pro ratione volu●…as ) is the voyce of Tyrannie , and indeed a change being to come , pride behoved to go before ; bùt the working of this is obscure , and not perceived at first openly : di●…ention amongst the conspirators doth arise upon a light occasion , a gnats wing ( as the Proverb is ) but it growes to a Mountain . Talbot an English man was appointed with Balliol ( as hath been said ) for to govern Scotland , his co-adjutors for re-conquering of it were ( amongst other Scots Englized ) David Cummin Earle of Athole , Henry of Beaumont , John Mowbray an old favourer of that faction , from the time of Edward the first , of whom he had received diverse lands for ill service to his Countrey , which Edward esteemed to bee good ; as indeed it was profitable to him . This John Mowbray was dead , and had left his lands to be divided between his two daughters , and his brother Alexander , or rather as a bone , and a matter of debate amongst the whole faction : for his daughters claiming it as heires of line , his brother by heire-male as entail , the Case was brought to judgement . Henry of Beaumont had married one of the daughters , he therefore was fracker froward that way , as one that was interessed . Talbot and Cummin swayed this way ; Edward Balliol enclined to the other party , and gave sentence for Alexander the brother . Hereupon dissention ariseth ; they grudge and murmure against the judgement , they complain of it in their open discourse , and speaches , as unjust : they withdrew themselves from Court , as mal-contents . Talbot goes into England ( perhaps to complain to the King ) and as he came thorow Lowthian , hee is taken by some of King Bruces party ( who began to show their heads upon this occasion ) and carried to Dumbarton where hee died : Beaumont put hand to work , and without so much as acquainting the King withall , takes Dungard a strong Castle in Buchan , and the rest of the lands that were in plea , hee ceaseth them , and makes them his owne by the law of the strongest . Cummin gets him into Athole and there fortifies himself against whosoever should assail him . This terrifies Balliol so , that he retreats his sentence , and turnes his coat ; agreeth with those two , granting unto Beaumont the lands which he had adjudged from him , and giving Cummin diverse other good lands which belonged to Robert Stuart , who shall reigne afterward , to shew upon what ill ground that gift was founded . But is he the better for this injustice ? for injustice it must be either first , or last , he is not so much the better , as in likelihood he should have been ; for injustice is never profitable . If hee gain one , he losseth another : hee winnes Cummin and Beaumont , but he loseth Alexander Mowbray : who thereupon joins himself to the other party . And thus was this usurpers faction brangled , then bound up again , and after divided again by want of worth in Balliol their head . But this is not all , for it seems that Cummins mind hath not been so much soundly reconciled to Balliol , as it hath been onely plaistered over , which may appea●…e to bee probably collected out of the History , which they say is thus . Edward of England came with 50000. men into Scotland ; to what purpose so many ? was there warre ? None saith he , nor rebellion greatly , that appeared any where , what doth hee then ? doth he fight with any man ? doth he fortifie Castles ? we heare no word of any such matter . What hath been his intention then ? wherefore came he , and with so huge an Army ? they tell not . But let actions speake , they will tell : All agree in this , that he tooke away Balliol into England ; there is one point : Then hee hath been jealous of him , and hath feared perhaps that he would not continue long his vassall , as his Grandfather had proofe , in Balliols father : but what doth he more ? hee leaves Cummin to guide the 〈◊〉 in Scotland ; there is another point : Hee makes him Viceroy in Scotland for Balliol , and Balliol in effect prisoner in England . Of which course Edward of England is the Authour , let it bee so ; who will purge Cummin of having been a Counseller , a suggester of information for his owne advancement ? he being a man that did ever hunt after preferment , which he made the scope of his actions , and compasse , by which he ever sailed , being also of an aspiring mind , and of a fickle and various disposition and nature . However it be , this is another division in that society between the Edwards , the usurping Kings . And thus much of the estate of their faction . Concerning the other partie that stuck to the lawfull King Robert Stuart , that afterward was King , had escaped Balliols ambush : being but fifteen yeares of age , and by the help of his friends , was conveyed to the Castle of Dumbarton , where hee was received by Malcolm Fleeming Captain thereof . Now both the Edwards being absent , and he having a particular spleen against Cummin , who possessed his private inheritance ; the said Robert with the help of Colin or Duncan Campbell in Argyle ( from whom he obtained an aid of foure hundreth men ) had taken the Castle of Dunholm in Coile , and destroyed the English Garrison there , whereupon the men of Boote ( which was his private inheritance ) had taken armes , slain Allane Lyle there Captain , and Sheriffe , who was placed there by Balliol and Cummin , and were come home very joyfull to their old master the Stuarts . Upon this Thomas Bruce Earle of Carrict with his friends , and neighbours of Coile , and Cunninghame , and William Karrudise of Annandale ( who had ever refused the English yoake ) coming forth out of the place where they had lurked , resorted to him also . John Randulph Earle of Murray was returned from France , and did incourage them with hopes of forreign help of Jefferey or Godfrey Rosse ( Sheriffe of Aire ) had drawne Coile , Carrict , and Cunningham to be of the partie ; Ranfrow was also returned tò the Stuarts . By their example , the dependers of Andrew Murray had drawne all Cliddesdale to them , partly by faire means , partly by force . These under the command and leading of Robert Stuart , and John Randulph had passed into the North parts , chaised David Cummin , Governour for the English to Lochaber , and compelled him to yeeld , and swear obedience to David Bruce : Notwithstanding , that the enemy had committed to him so great a charge , as to bee Lieutenant for him in those parts . About this time or a little before , William Lord of Liddesda●…e returns from his captivity , having been three yeares in prison : And hee is no sooner returned , but that presently he begins to serve his King and Countrey faithfully , and diligently against both their enemies , Scots and Englized usurpers ; recompencing his long imprisonment with his enemies losses , especially in Lowthian : for the more easie performance hereof , and that hee might annoy them that were in the Castle of Edinburgh , ( which was then held by the English ) and them that went toward it , hee lay in wait in Pentland-hills . To him John Randulph , after that he had left David Cummin Earle of Athole Lieutenant for him in the North parts ( Randulph and Robert Stuart were chosen Governours by the Kings party ) did adjoyn himself as to his old and fast friend : from thence they both went to Perth , to a Convention of the States , the 2. of Aprill 1335. But there was nothing done at that meeting , because of the enmity betwixt the Lord Liddesdale , and David Cummin Earle of Athole . The occasion was , the Lord of Liddesdale alledged that hee was detained longer in prison , then other wayes he would have been , by the means of the the Earle of Athole , who ( no doubt ) did thinke it meet for Balliol and the English faction , and therefore advised them to keep him . And certainly he was wiser in that point , then they that set him at libertie for ransome : Now under the colour and pretext of this ill will between him and Liddesdale , Athole was so strongly accompanied with his servants and dependers , that the rest being jealous of his disposition , and fearing his present power did conclude no matter of importance , Robert Stuart enclined toward him , but all the rest favoured the Lord Liddesdale . Robert was young , and knew not the disp●…sition of Athole , which the rest knew better , and what ods was between them in fidelitie , which was not long in discovering . For King Edward of England came with a great army , both by Sea and Land , and brought Balliol with him . So soone as he came to Perth , Athole being solicited to defection from Bruce , he was not very hard to wooe , whereas Liddesdale did still his uttermost endevours for him . One of the Governours ( to wit , Robert Stuart ) being sick , and the other ( John Randulph ) thinking it too heavie a burden for him alone to fight , divided his forces , that so he might the more annoy the King. Now word was brought to him , that there was a great army of the Guelders coming through England , to joyne with Edward , and help him against the Scots . Wherefore Randulph passeth over into Lowthian , to try if he could conveniently intercept them , and cut them off ere they should joyn with the King. There came hither to assist Randulph ( the Governour ) Patrick Earle of Marche , William Lord Liddesdale , and Alexander Ramsay of Dalhousie , and others . These being assembled together , lay in wait for them near Edinburgh in the Borrow moore : and so soon as they came in sight one of the other , without any delay of either side they joyned battell , and after a great conflict , the Guelders were put to rout , and chased to a little hill , where was a ruinous Castle . There they were besieged all that night , and the next day , they rendered themselves , lives safe . Others write that they fled to the Castle hill of Edinburgh , up Saint Maries wind or lane , defending themselves valiantly through the high street till they came to that place , where they slew their horses , and made ( as it were ) a rampart of their carcasses , and so saved themselves . There they stayed all that night , and having neither meat nor drink , nor convenient lodging , opprest with hunger , and cold , and thirst , yeelded themselves on the morrow . This narration seems not to bee so probable , as the former ; for if it had been at the Castle of Edinburgh , it might have made them more support , atleast releeved the Duke , and have saved him . Besides that , the town of Edinburgh should suffer strangers to passe through the midst of them , and neither aid them if they were friends , nor as●…ail them if they were enemies , nor shut their gates if they were neutrall , for fear of some danger to come to their towne thereby , but suffer both parties to have free accesse into their chief street and to stand as lookers on , it hath no great likelihood . They ascribe also the winning of the field , to the Lord of Liddesdale , who was not ( as Hollinshed sayes ) present at their first joyning battell , but came to it from Pentland-hills in so convenient time ; that if he had not come , the Guelders who fought exceeding well , had got the day . Others make no mention of Randulph , but of the Lord Liddesdale , and Alexander Ramsay with him . Those that write of this battell , tell of a huge and wonderfull stroake given by Sir David Annand in his fury , hee being hurt , stroke his enemy on the shoulder with a Pole-axe , and clave him and his horse down to the hard pavement , in which , the force of the stroake left a great mark long after . And no lesse memorable is the valour of a woman in the Guelders army , who at the beginning of the battell stept forth before her company , and encountred in a single combat or duell a Scotish Squire , named Robert Sha●… ▪ whom she slew , and afterwards beat downe her enemies on each side , till at last after a good time shee was compassed about , and so slain . The Duke of Guelder their Captain having yeelded , was courteously , and honourably used , his stuffe and baggage was restored to him , and himself set free . The reason of this was , because G●…y Earle of Murray , having been bred in France , knew that the French King did affect him ; and therefore to gratifie him , he shewed him this ●…avour to let him go without any other hurt or dammage ; onely he made him sweare , hee should never aid the English again against the Scots . This same Author sayes that this was not the Duke of Guelders , but the Earle of Namurs called G●…y contrary to all our Writers , who with one consent affirme that it was . And if it were G●…y of Namurs , he had alwayes been an enemy , and received greater courtesie then enemies 〈◊〉 , and more favour then was expedient for the Countrey . Nay , 〈◊〉 was not content to dismisse him free onely , but would needs for his safety , accompany him to England , in which journey they were suddenly set upon by the Lord 〈◊〉 , and the Englized Scots , who had dressed an ambuscado for them , and there Randulph was taken , and the Lord Liddesdale hurt in the leg . The Governour was 〈◊〉 to the two Edwards that lay before Perth , which towne was thereupon soone after rendr●…d unto him . Upon this successe of the usurpers faction , A●…hole very glad of what had 〈◊〉 out , accounting the prize now 〈◊〉 , and following forth his 〈◊〉 pollicie revolted again to the usurping Kings ▪ thinking it safest to side with the stronger , and did now clearly show , how worthy he was of that favour bestowed on him by Robert Stuart , who at the Convention at Perth had appeared on his side against the Lord 〈◊〉 . And not onely did Cummin come in to them , but undertakes also the government of Scotland once more as Lieutenant for the English , promising to root out all these of the contrary part that should stand out , and would not acknowledge their authoritie . The King of England partly for lack of victuals ( which were put out of the way by the Governour ) partly because of his journey into France , which he was then projecting , returned into his owne Countrey , and took along with him Balliol , who had the name of a King , but was indeed a very slave to another mans affection , for a vain and empty title ; a just reward for his foolish trusting to a stranger in prejudice of his Countrey . Athole being willing to doe what hee had said to the Edwards , that he might approve his service and fidelity unto them ( whereby hee proved also false to his lawfull King , and late benefactours ; his so friendly enemies , who had not onely pardoned him so lately , and saved his life , but trusted him so far , and committed so much to him ) left no kind of crueltie unpractised , that he could against his Countrey , so far , as that almost the whole Nobilitie relented , and became slack and remisse againsthim , or did yeeld unto him , having forgotten their duty . But behold the reward of such wisedom , and the due fruit of such seed as he had sown ; a fruit that is often reaped of such seed , if men would beleeve , & observe it : though the present appearance , the first buds and blossomes of things do blinde their eyes , & make them choose that which should not be chosen , which is unacceptable to man , and not past over by God , as is seen in this man before the yeare be fully expired . For Robert Stuart being sick , and Randulph a prisoner , there were left but three Noble men who stuck fast , and were faithfull to their King , and Countrey . These were William Lord Liddesdale , Patrick Earle of March , and Andrew Murray who had been Governour . They were so constant , that no promises could corrupt their fidelitie , nor no threatning nor danger could quail their courage so , as to bow their hearts to any English servitude . Some adde unto these the Earle of Rosse , and William Lord Keith . These did greatly hate his unnaturall dealing against his Countrey , and treachery against his promise , and crueltie joyned withall : three things ever odious and hatefull to honest minds . Wherefore understanding that hee lay at the siege of the Castell of Kildrummie , they levied such companies and number of men as they could get , and marched towards him . Cummin being advertised hereof , raiseth the siege , and meeteth them in the fields within the Forrest of Kilblane : There they fought it very hardly , and Cummin being more in number , had overthrown them ( as it is thought ) but that John Craig Captain of Kildrummie , issuing forth with three hundreth fresh men , restored the battell which was almost lost , and gave them an undoubted victory , which when Cummin perceived ( being conscious of his owne ill deserving ) that he might not fall into his enemies hands alive , he rushed into the midst of the battell , and so was slain : Sir Robert Minyeis fled to the Castle of Kenmure ( saith Boetius ) who saith also that Alexander Gordon was he that slew Athole ; but others attribute it to the Lord Liddesdale himself , who for that cause , and for the slaughter of Sir Thomas Minyeis ( it may be they mean Sir Robert ) at the Castle of Lochindors , in the Sheriffedome Sheriffedome of Bamfe , was rewarded with the Earledome of Athole , and is so stiled in the resignation by which hee surrenders it again some foure yeares after ( to wit , 1341 ) the 16 of February in favour of Robert Stuart , Great Stuart of Scotland , whereof the evident is yet extant in the Register . There died in this battell besides Athole , Walter Braid , and Robert Cummin , and a great number of others both Gentlemen and Commons . Sir Thomas Cummin was taken prisoner , and the next day ( being the 1. of January ) he was beheaded . They were not above 1000. or ( as some write ) 500. choice men against 3000. yet the event was ( as wee have said ) favourable to the just and right cause . This battell was fought the last of December , 1337. By this blink of fair weather in such a storme of forrain assaults , things were again somewhat changed , and the Brucians encouraged : wherefore that they might have some face of a settled estate and government , they choose Andrew Murray Regent as hee had been before his captivitie . He went into the North , and in the mean time the Lord of Liddesdale with a company of chosen men passeth over into Fyffe , and besieged the Castle of Saint Andrews , Falkland , and Luchers , all which he tooke in with small difficulty , by his wisedome , and manhood , though they were strongly manned , and well fortified , and furnished with munition , and victuall . Major re●…erreth this to the time after the Governour came backe out of the North. After this , he returned into Lowthian to his old haunt in Pentland-hills to wait his time , and watch the English that lay in Edinburgh Castle , that hee might slip no occasion of troubling , and molesting them . At last this occasion did happen ; the Towne being full stuft with a great number of Souldiers , both English and Scots : There was a scottish man amongst them of a stout stomack , named Robert Phanderghest whose lot was fallen to be on that side , but his heart was with the other party , and hee carried no great good will to the English. This being perceived he was the worse entreated by them , so that one day his head was broken by the Marshall Thomas Kneveton , whereat taking indignation , hee sought all means to bee avenged thereof , and so brought it to passe that he shortly after slew him ; and to avoid the danger of punishment , fled to the Lord Liddesdale , whom having informed of the negligence that was growne amongst the English ; he perswaded him to take advantage of their sloath , he nothing slack in a businesse of that nature , went secretly in the night to the Towne , and slew foure hundreth of them in their sleep , and drunkennesse , before they could make any resistance . About this time Murray the Regent dieth , after he had brought back all the Northerne parts of Scotland to his Princes obedience excepting Perth , a great losse for his Countrey , and hee greatly regrated ; But no losse is without some gain . Robert Stuart had now recovered his health , who was the other Governour ; ( and as some write ) hee assumed the Lord Liddesdale for his collegue , whether that were so or not , and what ever his place and name was , hee was a notable adjunct to Robert Stuart , and under his authority performed much good service , and profitable to King and Countrey with great hazard of his life , by receiving of many wounds ; while he did assail and vanquish greater numbers with far fewer : So that by his prowesse and singular valour hee reduced Tivedale , Niddesdale , Annandale and Cliddesdale ( except the Hermitage ) to the Kings obedience , having expulsed from thence all the English. These lands and strengths were lost again after the battell of Durham , and recovered again the second time , by VVilliam the first Earle of Douglas , which wee have inserted here , lest men inconsiderately should confound , and mistake the one VVilliam for the other . By these doings his name came to bee spred throughout the whole Island , insomuch that Henry Lancaster Earle of Darbie hearing thereof , and being himself a valiant man , and desirous of glory , provoked him to fight with him hand to hand on horseback : but at their first encounter , the Lord of Liddesdale his hand was so sore wounded with his owne speare ( which brake hard at his hand ) that hee was not able to prosecute the combate , whereupon it was delayed . Major maketh mention of his justing , and joyneth Alexander Ramsay with him at Berwick : hee telleth also of one Patrick Grahame , who being provoked and challenged by an English man into the field , told him he was content ; but wished him to dine well , for ●…ee would send him to suppe in Paradise , which hee also did : hereupon hee condemns these justs and duels in time of peace ; so that it should seeme there have been some peace or truce . But wee heare not of any , I doe rather thinke there hath been some assurance at that time . That same yeare , the King of England sent a very valiant Knight named Sir Thomas Barcklay into Scotland with a great power of men to assist their faction : Robert Stuart and the Lord Liddesdale goe against him , and gave him battell at Blackburne ; where the Lord of Liddesdale fought so eagerly , that all his men being slain , he and Robert Stuart having onely three left with them , continued still fighting , and defended themselves till night , which being come on , by favour thereof they escaped , and saved themselves by flight . It was not long ere he recompensed this losse , by the defeating of John Stirline and his company . This Stirline with five hundreth men assailed the Lord Liddesdale at unawares , at a place called Cragens , having but fourtie in his company , as he was journeying without any feare or suspicion of an enemy . This did put him into a great feare at first , but he recollecting himselfe out of that sudden affrightment , fought so valiantly that hee defeated Stirline , slew fiftie of his men , and tooke fouretie prisoners . Afterward the English that lay at Creighton , made divers onsets and incursions upon him , in one of which he was runne through the body with a speare , and was thereby disabled to doe any service for a season . So soone as he was recovered , being accompanied with twenty men onely , he set upon sixty English , at a place called The blacke Shaw , and having wisely taken the advantage of the ground , which was fitter for foot then horsemen , he slew and took them every one . In the same year 1338. the 24. of December , or as others , the 2. of November , he set upon the convoy of the English that were carrying vivers to the Castle of Hermitage , as they were in Melrosse , or neare to it , and defeated them , but not without gre●…t slaughter of his owne men : and so having got the victuals , he went and besieged the Castle of Hermitage , ●…ooke it , and did victuall it with the same victuall which he had taken at Melrosse . He vanquished also Lawrence Vauch ( alias Rolland Vauch ) a very valiant man , with a great company of Englishmen . And in the yeare following ( 1339 ) he fought five times in one day with Lawrence ( or William ) Abernethie , a Leader under Balliol , and having beene p●…t to the worse foure times , saith Hollinshed , Boetius , five times , at the sixth time vanquished him , and slew all his men , and took himselfe prisoner , and thereafter presented him to Robert Stuart , who sent him to the Castle of Dumbartan . For these and such other exploits atchieved by him , he was highly esteemed of all men , and got the name which is commonly used of him , The flowre of Chivalrie . He was after this sent Ambassadour into France to informe King David of the estate of the Realme , and to conferre with him about weighty matters , being either chosen for his worth , or only sent by Robert Stuart as his Collegue , and so fittest for that employment . While he was there he obtained pardon of the K. of France , and peace for one Hugh Hambell a famous Pirate . During his absence in France , Robert Stuart had laid siege to St. Johnstoun in the yeare 1339. and had divided his Army into foure squadrons , under foure chiefe Captaines ( each Captaine commanding a part ) of which he himselfe was one , the Earle of March another , William Earle of Rosse the third , and Magnus Mowbray Lord of Cliddesdale the fourth . It was divers times assaulted , but they were repulsed with losse , it being valiantly defended by the English that were within . They had lien at it ten weekes without doing any good , and were now almost quite out of hope to take it ; so that they began to thinke of leaving off , when in the very meane time the Lord Liddesdale arrives on Tay , having brought with him out of France Hambell the Pyrate , with five ships well furnished with men , munition , and weapons . These men the Lord Liddesdale had hired in France of purpose for this businesse ; amongst them were two Knights of the family of Castle Galliard , and two Esquires , ●…iles de la Hayes , and John de Breise , He landed a part of the souldiers , and left the rest in the Ships to keepe the mouth of the river , and he himselfe marched to Cowper in Fife to take it . It had beene deserted by the Englishmen for want of vivers in the time of Murray the Governour , and now againe it was seized by the Englized Scots for the use of the English. Their Captaine at this time was one William Bullock an English Priest , but a valiant man , who was also Treasurer for them and the faction . The Lord Liddesdale deales with him , that seeing there was no hope of succour from England , and that the Scots Garrison was not to be 〈◊〉 to , he would forsake the English faction , and enter into King Davids service , promising to procure him lands in Scotland . Bullock accepted his offer , and having obtained his promised lands , hee did much service afterward to the King and the Lord of Liddesdale . Having by this meanes recovered Cowper , he returned to the siege of Saint Johnstoun , where ( as he was ever forward ) he was hurt in the leg with the shot of a Crosbow going to the Scalade . Neverthelesse , he departed not till the Towne was taken , or given up by the Governour thereof Thomas Uthred . The manner of the taking of it was this : when the siege had lasted foure moneths , and was like to have continued longer , the Earle of Rosse by digging of Mines drew away the water , and dried up the Fous●…es and Ditches , so that the Souldiers going to the assault upon dry ground , and approaching the walls without any let or difficultie , beat the defenders from off the walls , especially by shooting of darts and arrowes out of the Engines which they had caused make : And so they rendred , and departed with bag and baggage in the yeare 1340. Within foure dayes after Stirline was also besieged , and rendred on the same conditions . After the siege of Saint Johnstoun was ended , the Lord Liddesdale rewarded the Frenchmen very liberally , and sent them backe into France well contented . He caused also restore to Hugh Hambell one of his best Ships , which was taken by the enemie during the siege . For Hambell having adventured to approach the Towne with his Ships to give an assault , one of them was taken by the English , and now was restored . Thus K. Davids party did flourish by the faithfull valour of these his good and notable subjects , and prevaile against the pretended K. Balliol : who seeing such successe in K. Davids affaires , durst show his face no longer ▪ but having lurked a while in Galloway , by changing and shifting places for feare of being intercepted , and wearying of that kinde of life , he returnes into England now the second time after his conquest ; he did not possesse his Kingdome long , and but with little ease or contentment , what by the Scots chasing of him , what by the King of England ( his good Master ) detaining of him little better then a captive . A shadow of a kingdome , or slaverie rather ; being miserable indeed , yet sees he not his miserie , but seeketh it againe , and loseth it againe . But let us returne to our Lord of Liddesdale , who desists not here from doing of good service to his King and Countrey . Edinburgh Castle is yet in the possession of the English : it was too strong to force , wisedome must supply , which was not lacking in him , no more then valour ; a good harmonie , and happy conjunction , which were ever to be wished ! There was one Walter Towers ( of whom are descended the Towers of Innerleith ) a man of his acquaintance , and a follower of him , had ( by chance ) a Ship laden with victuall in the Firth of T●…y beside Dundie . Liddesdale causeth him to bring about his Ship to Forth , where ( as he was instructed ) feigning himselfe to be an English Merchant , and sending some flagons of very fine wine to the Captaine of the Castle , he prayed him to take him into his protection , and that he would give such order as the rest of his victuall might be free from all danger and perill of his souldiers , and of the enemie ; promising that if the Garrision in the Castle had need of any thing , he should command any thing that was in his power , so ●…arre as it could reach . The Captaine desired him to send some hogsheads of the same wine , and some bisket bread , and promised him accesse when he pleased : he further warned him that he should come timely in the morning for feare of the Scots , that did make frequent onsets and incursions in those parts . The Lord of Liddesdale being advertised hereof , chooseth out 12. of his best men , and the same night goeth out to Walter Towers ship , and he and his men having borrowed the Mariners apparell , did put it on above their Armour , and so went to the Castle , carrying the wine and victuall with them : he had before placed the rest of his men as neare as he could , that they might be in readinesse , upon a signe given them , to come to the Castle to his aid . Liddisdale himselfe , with Simeon Fraser , and William Bullock ( say our Writers , but his name was Sir John Bullock ) went a little before , and the rest followed a certaine space after . When they were let in within the Bulwarke , perceiving the keyes of the Castle hanging upon the Porters arme , they slew him , and without noise opened the gate , and presently gave the signall , by winding of a horne . This sound gave warning both to his friends and enemies , that the Castle was taken . Both made haste , the one to defend , the other to pursue ; but the Scots having a steep hill to ascend , behoved to come forward the more slowly : for that cause ( lest their Lord should be excluded from his men ) they cast down the carriage in the gate to keep it open , and having fought a sharp fight , at last they that were within gave place : the Captaine with six more were taken , the rest were all slaine . And having thus wonne the Castle , he made his brother William Douglas ( say they , but should call him Archbald ) Keeper and Captain thereof . This same yeare or the next ( 1342. the 30. of March ) Alexander Ramsay tooke Roxburgh in Tividale , and sone after John Randulph was set at liberty in exchange for John Montague taken in France ( saith Major ) and tooke in his owne Castle of Lochma-bene in Annandale . So that by the industrie and efforts of these three Wairdens , the Lord Liddesdale in the middle March , Alexander Ramsay in the East , and John Randulph in the West : the English were wholy expelled out of Scotland beyond the Borders , which fell out in the time of Edward the third : neither did the English men possesse one foote of Scottish ground , excepting the towne of Berwick . Such good service did these Noblemen , with the other good Nobilitie , in the minoritie and absence of their Prince from his Countrey , against the great force of England , and a great part of their owne Countrey of Scotland , being unfaithfull Subjects , unnaturall Scottishmen . And this these Nobles did even for the love they bore to King Robert , this Davids father , bearing the heat of the day for him , while he is at ease and securitie , with watching , hunger , thirst , cold and great effusion of their bloud , to make the Kingdome peaceable to him , choosing to adventure their lands , their lives , and whatsoever worldly thing is deare unto men , rather then to abandon him , and follow his enemies with ease and quietnesse , under whom they might have lived a peaceable life ; if they would set aside regard unto their honour and duetie . Such is the force of the love of Subjects , beyond all strength of men , and riches of treasures , onely able to bide a stresse , and hold out : As may bee seen by this example to bee remarked greatly by subjects , and entertained above all treasure by Soveraignes , and to be accounted a chiefe , yea almost the onely point of true policy , to love and make much of all men , and most specially their Nobilitie ; that they may in such their Princes straits ( when they shall happen ) endure the better as these men did , which they could not have done , if they had not had authority and dependance , and so been respected by their inferiours : who so would diminish this authority in Noblemen ; abasing them too farre , and making them suspect to Princes , and not safe for them , they erre greatly in policie , and unadvisedly cut the props of the Princes standing , which being brangled but a little , his Kingdome is easily bereft him , all authoritie going away with his owne person : It fell well out with King David Bruce , that these Noblemen were not so , and therefore the more able to doe so great things for him . After these things , they sent Ambassadours to desire King David to come home , and so hee did the 2 ▪ of June that same yeare . His first Act was carefully to inquire for , and gratefully to reward such as had suffered in his service , a prudent Act ; But allas ( the mal heur ) it falleth often out that Princes know not all things , and ere they be informed , they many times conclude . The cause of many errours and much mischief hath happened thereby , as it fell out here . We have heard how the Lord of Liddesdale ( amongst many his notable services ) had in speciall expelled the English out of Tividale , and diverse other places , by his wisedome and valour , and was therefore rewarded with the same lands , which he injoyed afterwards as his rightfull inheritance ▪ from thenceforth he so used it , as in a manner conquered by himself . He was Wairden , and so defended it : defending ministred justice , and discharged the place and office of Sheriffe , having wonne it from the enemy . This hee did with the tacite consent of the Countrey , and by allowance of those that were in authoritie . Thus being in possession , and trusting to his deserving towards King and Countrey , and the Nobilitie of his bloud , and potencie of that house he was come of ; he looked for no competitour in that which he had taken from the enemy . And not knowing or not caring for the Law ( as is customable to Martiall men ) or perhaps being prevented , being slower in going to King David , or on some such like occasion : the Sheriffe-ship is given from him to another . Alexander Ramsay was amongst the first that welcomed King David at his return , and was received kindly as hee had merited , and much made of by him , who for his service gave him the keeping of the Castle of Roxbrough , and together with it ( whether of the Kings owne free and mere motion , or any other suggestion , or by Ramsayes procurement ) the Sheriffe-ship of Tividale , very unadvisedly if hee knew Liddesdales interesse , very ill formed , if he knew it not . Very imprudently ( say our Writers ) who blame the Kings indiscretion , for giving it from William Douglas Lord of Liddesdale , to Alexander Ramsay ; and for withdrawing of it from so worthy a man , so well deserving to whomsoever , for that was to make a division among his owne : so it proved , for VVilliam Douglas of Liddesdale tooke it very highly that Alexander Ramsay , should be preferred before him to that office . But hee was chiefly incensed against the taker of it , as having done him a great indignitie , which makes it apparant that hee hath not onely accepted of it , but sued for it : therefore set altogether on revenge , he suppressed his ire for that present . But after some three moneths , as Alexander Ramsay was exercising the office in Hawick , and looked for no such thing : hee set upon him , and having slain three of his men that stood to the defence of their master , hee hurt himself , and casting him on a horse , carried him to the Hermitage , where hee died of famine , according to the testimony of sundry of our Writers , and the black booke of S●…ne , where it is showen that hee was taken the 20. of June , and keeped seventeene dayes without meat , save that some few grains of corne , which falling downe out of a corne loft which was above him , were gathered by him and eaten . Such is the unbridlednesse of anger ( justly called fury ) to be greatly blamed in him , yet they marke the cause thereof , the Kings unadvisednesse in procuring thereby the losse and ruine of so worthy a man of war , farre from his fathers prudencie and probitie . The King ( not acquainted yet with military dispositions ) was marvellously moved therewith , and purposed to have punished it exemplarily to deterre others from doing the like , and therefore caused search very diligently to have apprehended Liddesdale , but in vain : for hee withdrew himself to the mountains , and desert places ▪ and in time obtained pardon by the sute of his friends , of whom he had purchased good store by his worthy acts for the liberty of his Countrey ; Among whom Robert Stuart the Kings sisters sonne was his speciall good friend . That which most effectually served to procure him favour , was the magnificke , but true commemoration of the great exploits atchieved by him , the consideration of the time , in respect whereof ( the peace being uncertain without , and things not very quiet at home ) military men were to bee entertained , and used with all favour . By this occasion he did not onely obtain pardon for his fault , but hee got also the gift of keeping of the Castle of Roxbrough , and Sheriffeship of Tivedale ( and all other his lands in Tivedale , or elsewhere restored to him ) which the other had , and which were the cause of the slaughter . This clemencie of King David was ( perhaps profitable for that time , but pernicious in example . ) This fell out ( as hath been said ) three moneths after the Kings coming home , and therefore in October , or ( perhaps in September ) at the head Court in Hawick . His pardon was obtained , and his peace made with the King a little before the battell of Durham , which was in the yeare 1346. the 17. of October : So as hee hath beene three or foure yeares a banished man. After his returne from banishment , finding the King bent upon his journey against England , he wisely and earnestly disswaded him , and did exhort him first to take order with the discorders at home , and before all things to settle them . For the Earle of Rosse had slain the Lord of the Isles , whereby a great party of the Kings army was diminished , the Lord of the Isles men lying back for want of a head ; and so the Lord Rosse , and his men for feare of punishment . So did also many others that lay neare them , retire and go home , fearing least they should suffer in their absence by their neighbourhood to those disagreeing Lords , and be some way endamaged ; wherefore they thought good to provide in time , the best they could against all perrills that might happen . For this cause hee councelled the King , first to settle peace amongst his owne subjects before he enterprised a forraign war ; that peace being settled , and his army united , he might the more strongly , and with better successe invade England . But the King contemning his good and wholsome counsell , ( his French friendship prevailing more with him , then either his owne good , or the good of his Countrey ) hee raised an army wherewith hee entred England , and was encountred by the English at Durham , where the Scots were defeated , King David Bruce taken prisoner , and with him ( beside others ) VVilliam Earle of Douglas , and the Lord of Liddesdale , who were shortly after ransomed or dismissed so much the more easily , for that they had the King , and so cared the lesse for others . This fell out in the yeare 1346. October the 17. as hath been said . While the Lord Liddesdale is a prisoner amongst his enemies , he forgetteth not his friends at home . Sir David Barcklay had slain one John Douglas , brother to Sir VVilliam , and father to Sir James of Dalkeith ( say our Writers ) beside Horsewood : but they should say rather , brother to Sir William , ( for there Sir William is the same Lord of Liddesdale , of whom wee now speake , sonne naturall to good Sir James ) neither was John Douglas slain in Horsewood , but in Kinrosher , by Loch-leven . This Barcklay also had taken Sir John Bullock at the Kings command , and put him in prison in Lindores , where hee died of hunger almost in the same sort that Sir Alexander Ramsay died . The Writers lay the blame on the Nobilitie that envied so worthy a man , and accused him falsely to the King of unsaithfulnesse ; but they tell not in what point . They themselves call him a worthy Chaplain of great wisedome , singular prudencie , and eloquence , beyond any in his time , who had been Chamberlain to Edward Balliol , Treasurer to the rest of the Englishmen in Scotland , and lastly , Chamberlain to King David , and amongst the chief of his Counsellers reputed as another Chussay . Neverthelesse , thus was he delated , and taken away , having done divers good offices in the Common-wealth , and being very necessary unto it . The Lord of Liddesdale had drawne him from the English faction to King Davids party , and he had used him in good services , whereof hee was not forgetfull , ever remaining one of his speciall friends . This giveth men matter of suspition , that his death was for ill will to the Lord of Liddesdale by the King incensed against him , never digesting in heart the death of Sir Alexander Ramsay , whereby the King is blamed , as counseller or follower thereof ; and that Sir David Barcklay enemy to him , did execute it willingly , or did procure the Kings command thereto . The taking of the Castle of Edinburgh , in the yeare 1341. by the Lord of Liddesdale , was plotted by Sir John Bullock , say the Writers , who in quicknesse of wit , and sharpnesse of invention past all men in his dayes . In revenge of this , Liddesdale causeth slay Sir David Barcklay , by the hands of Sir John Saint Michaell ( say they ) but they should have said Carmichaell in Aberdene . A just fact , but not justly done ; the matter was good , the forme ill , being besides and against all order , but who could wait for order in so disordered a Countrey ? when should hee by order of law have obtained justice , his Prince being in captivitie ; his duetie to his friends defendeth the fact , the estate of the Countrey excuseth the forme . God looketh not so upon things : hee had before ( as wee heard ) slain Sir Alexander Ramsay , he must not want his owne share , but who durst doe it ? The avenger of bloud finds the means . Such is the estate of man , what can they lean to on earth ? ere he do not pay that debt of bloud , the Earle of Douglas shall exact it ; his Chief , his Cousin , and to adde that also his owne sonne in Baptisme ( as the Lord Liddesdale was to the Earle of Douglas , for the black book of Scone calleth him his spirituall father ) and thus it came to passe . The Lord of Liddesdale being at his pastime , hunting in Attrick Forrest , is beset by William Earle of Douglas , and such as hee had ordained for that purpose , and there assailed , wounded and slain beside Galsewood in the yeare 1353. upon a jealousie that the Earle had conceived of him with his Lady , as the report goeth , for so sayes the old song . The Countesse of Douglas , out of her Boure she came , And loudly there that she did call ; It is for the Lord of Liddesdale , That I let all these teares downe fall . The song also declareth how shee did write her love letters to Liddisdale , to disswade him from that hunting . It tells likewise the manner of the taking of his men , and his owne killing at Galsewood , and how hee was carried the first night to Lindin Kirk , a mile from Selkirk , and was buried within the Abbacie of Melrosse . The cause pretended , or the cause of this slaughter , is by our Writers alledged to be the killing of this Alexander Ramsay , and Sir David Barklay , and some other grudges , and so the Earle said himself , as they say , and so it was indeed , if we looke unto God ; but who doth beleeve him , that it was on his part ? no Writers , no report , no opinion of men doth beleeve it , not untill this day . They lay the cause on his ambition , on his envie of Liddesdales honour , and jealousie of his greatnesse . Reason swaies to the same side , and brings great if not necessary arguments : for what had hee to doe with Alexander Ramsay , that he should for his sake dippe his hands in his owne bloud ? farre lesse for Sir David Barcklay , on whom he himself should have taken avengement , if the Lord Liddesdale had not done it ; this John Douglas whom Barcklay slew , being so neare to himselfe ; but something must bee said to colour things . But this will not colour this blemish , though in a faire body indeed as we shall see hereafter . Doth ambition spring from a great minde ? Doth envie , of vertue ? jealousie , of hatred ? Let noble hearts eschew them ; it is the basest thought that can fall into a mans mind . Right minds love vertue , even in strangers , even in enemies ; generous minds strive to do better , not to hinder such as do well . It is a strange maxime and ill grounded , a wicked wisedome and perverse policy , to keep backe ones friend in whom vertue appeares . It is of follies the greatest folly , to hinder their growth , for fear they should overgrow our greatnesse ; the which when we doe , it comes to passe that wee are outgrowne by strangers , and often by our enemies : yea undermined oftentimes , while our friends ( thus kept under ) are unable to underprop us , as they both should and would do : a just reward of so unjust wisedome . But for themselves to put hand in them for their worth , I can finde no name to it . I must wish this Nobleman had beene free from so foul a blot , and I would fain vindicate him , and some small appearance there is , that it was not his fact . But the current of witnesses lay it upon him , and who can contend against all the world . Wherefore let us regrate it and not allow it , eschew it and not excuse it , or follow it , as we are too ready to follow evill examples . To returne , thus he lived , and thus hee died , for whose Elogium short , but worthie ; let it be said ( as it was then blazed in the mouthes of men , and cited by the manuscript ) He was terrible and fearefull in armes ; meek , milde and gentle , in peace ; the scourge of England , and sure buckler and wall of Scotland , whom neither hard successe could make slack , nor prosperous sloathfull . Hee is stiled by the Writers a second to none , and by consent of that age and voyce of the people , the flowre of Chivalrie : he was often wounded , thrice a prisoner , and ever ready to fight again , what manhood ? what wisedome behoved it to be ? with fifty men , to overcome five hundreth : with twenty , to take and slay sixtie . What invincible minde was it , that being defeated five times in one day , hee had the courage to fight and overcome the sixth time . Let Hanniball wonder at Marcellus , that neither overcoming , nor overcome , would suffer him to rest : yet was he not thus restlesse that we reade of , a worthy branch of such a stock , a true member of such a house , well retaining that naturall sappe sucked from his Predecessours , of valour , and of love to his Countrey . And thus farre concerning the name of Douglas in this branch thereof , in the time of the minority or absence of the chief . Now let us return to the Principall stock , the Earle of Douglas himself . Gulielmus Douglassius Liddalianus , 1333. caesus Omnia quando habeas , quae Mars dedit omnibus unus Ut Mars Marte ferox fulminet alta tuo , Hoc putes ut patiare parem ; tibi Defuit unum hoc : Quin age posce hostem caetera solus eris . Johns Heroes . In English thus . Whiles thou alone all valour didst enjoy , Mars doth bestow on those he would imploy , One onely vertue wanting , doth appeare To make thee excellent , thou couldst not beare An equall , bate this pride , and thou shalt have This honour never souldier was more brave . Of William the fifth of that Name , the tenth Lord , and first Earle of Douglas . UNto Hugh the ninth Lord of Douglas , did succeed his nephew William sonne to Archbald Lord of Galloway , and Governour of Scotland , who was slain at Hallidon hill . Of this William the other great branch of Douglasses doth spring ; to wit , the house of Angus , which overtoppeth the rest , and at last succeedeth unto the place of the stock . Hee it is also that raiseth the house to the dignitie of an Earledome , and doth greatly increase the state thereof . That he was sonne to Archbald , and not to Sir James ( as some doe mistake it ) it is cleare by divers confirmations , in which Sir James is expresly termed his uncle , and Archbald his father . And so doth the Charter witnesse , upon which the confirmation proceeds . The Charter is given by Hugh Lord Douglas brother and heire to the late Sir James Douglas , to William sonne and heire to Archbald brother to good Sir James Douglas . It is dated at Aberdene the 28. of May. 1342. The Kings Charter likewise cleareth it , bearing David dei gratiae , & . Sciatis nos concessisse , & . Gulielmo de Douglas ( saith the one ) Confirmasse dilecto , & sideli nostro Gulielmo de Deuglas militi ( saith the other ) Omnes terras reditus , & possessiones per totum regnum nostrorum , de quibus quondam Jacobus dominus de Douglas avunculus suus , & Archibaldus de Douglas Pater suus milites obierunt vestiti . Touching his marriage , we finde that hee had three wives ! The first was Margaret , daughter to the Earle of Dumbarre and March ; by whom he had gotten two sonnes ; James slain at Otterburn , and Archbald called the grimme Lord of Galloway , and afterward Earle of Douglas : and one daughter married to the Lord of Montgomerie . His second wife was Margaret Marre , daughter to Donald or Duncan Earle of Marre , and afterwards heire , and inheritrix of that Earledome : for this Duncan had but one sonne named Thomas and this Margaret , Thomas twise married : by his first marriage he had one onely son named Thomas also : This second Thomas was married to Marjorie sister to this William Earle of Douglas , but died without issue : his father Thomas married a second wife , Margaret Stuart , who was inheritrix of the Earledome of Angus , but he had no children by her : so that there being none left now of Duncans race , but this Margaret Marre , married to the Earle of Douglas : we finde him stiled Earle of Marre in his wives right in the yeare 1378. whereof divers Monuments and Evidents yet extant do beare witnesse . By this Margaret Marre , he had one onely daughter Isabell Douglas , who did succeed to the Earledome of Marre . She was twice married , First to Malcome Lord Drummond , by whom shee had no children . Secondly , to Alexander Stuart , sonne to the Earle of Buchan , brother to King Robert the third , but had no children by him neither , yet she did resigne the Earledome in his favour , as a Charter given thereupon by King Robert the third to him and his heires , which falling unto her and her heires . Thirdly , the Earle of Douglas after the decease of Margaret Marre , tooke to his third wife Margaret Stuart daughter to Thomas Stuart Earle of Angus , and his heire and inheretrix of the lands , & Earldome of Angus . This Thomas was son to John Stuart , & brother to Walter Stuart the great Stuart of Scotland , who married Marjorie Bruce , daughter to King Robert Bruce . Now this Margaret had a brother who died without issue , and a sister called Elizabeth , married to Alexander Hamilton of Cadyow . Margaret Stuart herselfe was first married to Thomas Marre Earle of the same , and sonne to Duncan or Donald , but had no children by him . Then shee was married to this William Earle of Douglas , by whom she had a sonne named George . This George succeeded to her in the Earledome of Angus , and by gift of his sister Isabel Douglas inheritrix of Marre , he got the lands that she had gotten from her father : which disposition Isabel made to her brother George , and not to James or Archbald , for good considerations to be related at large hereafter , when we shall come to treat of the house of Douglas . And so we see him very fortunate and honourable in his marriage , in his purchases , and in his children : his honourable minde appeares in his deportment to his sister Uterine , whom the Writers call Elconora de Bruce , to whom he gives no lesse then the Baronie of Wester Calder in maritagium to her and her heires whatsoever , with her husband Sir James Sandilands , as the transumpt of the Charter beares , extracted by James Douglas Lord Dalkeith 1420. April 4. The Charter it selfe is not dated , but the giver is cleare , Gul●…elmus Douglas Dominus loci ejusdem , and Sir James his entaile doth cleare it , in which he is called Earle of Douglas and Marre . This El●…onora Bruce had to her father Robert Bruce ( some call him Alexander ) son to Edward flaine in Ireland , and Cousin Germane with K. Robert. He was Earle of Carrict , and after the death of Archbald Lord of Galloway , he married his relict this Earles mother , and had by her this Lady Elionora , who ( as we have said ) was married to Sir James Sandilands . In regard of this marriage , and the Donation of these lands , that house of Sandilands gave the coat of the house of Douglas , a Heart , and three mullets , which none else hath besides him , except those of the name of Douglas . This Earle William was bred in France , and as the manuscript beareth , most part in the warres ; his first returne to Scotland was before the battell of Durham some few yeares , which appears by the forenamed Charter given him by his uncle in the year 1342. Touching his actions after his return , the first was a hard entry at the battell of Durham , where the King made many Knights to stirre them up to fight valiantly ; and first he created William Lord Douglas an Earle . In the morning , being Warden , he is sent to view the English Camp , and engaged among them ere he was aware , he had a number of his men slaine , and himselfe also narrowly escaped . In the battell ( being Leader of the Foreward ) he was taken , and the King himselfe likewise , with divers others . But his successe after is more fortunate : for the better understanding whereof , let us remember the estate of affaires of the Countrey of Scotland at that time . After King David Bruce was taken prisoner at the field of Durham , the English repossessed themselves of the Merse , Tivedale , Liddesdale , and Lawderdale : so that their Marches were Cockburnspath and Sawtray , and from that to Carnilops , and the Corse-cave . Balliol had gotten again his old inheritance in Galloway , and wasted Annandale , Nidisdale and Cliddisdale , with fire and sword , and had also with Percie overrun Lowthian : neither could there be an army made up in Scotland to resist him for some few yeares , so that Balliol behaved himselfe again as King : but we heare that no obedience hee got by the good will of the people . The Scots had chosen Robert Stuart ( who was King afterward ) to bee Governour in the Kings absence , but no great action is recorded , that hee was able to take in hand at such a time , and in such estate of his Countrey . The Earle of Douglas being ransomed or dismist , the more easily for that they had the King in their power , returned home . Thereafter there fell out a matter very greatly to bee lamented , that it should have fallen into the hands of so worthy a person , the killing of the Lord of Liddesdale by the Earle : let me never excuse such a fact , I may well bee sory for it . But I wonder at this , that the Earle after his slaughter , should have obtained his whole estate : not onely that which hee did acquire for his owne vertue and valour in the Borders , as Liddesdale with the Sherifship of Roxbrough , or Tweddale , but also those lands which hee had gotten by his wife , as Dalkeith , Newlands , Kilbugho , &c. But being rightly considered it seemes not so strange , for after the Lord of Liddesdale had slain Sir Alexander Ramsay , the King apparantly hath never pardoned from his heart . But being still incensed against him ( as may appeare in that action the King allowed , or rather moved of Sir David Barcklay in taking and slaying Sir John Bullock a speciall freind of the Lord of Liddesdale , and for ill will and spite of him ( say our Writers ) and that his anger being renewed , and increased by the killing of Sir David Barcklay : It is possible the King hath beene well pleased to heare and know of his ruine , whereupon the Earle of Douglas there being none so able to do it as he , being his Chief and kinsman , having his owne particular grudge , was incouraged to make him away , and having done it , hath obtained his lands the more easily . Our Histories testifie that the house and name of Douglas was divided against it self , pursuing each other for many yeares together with much bloudshed , and all upon this occasion . Belike the marriage of the Lord Liddesdales daughter , to Sir James Douglas of Lowden , Kincavell , and Calder-cleere , hath beene or should have been made in his owne time , which hath moved the Douglas of Dalkeith , Calder-cleere , and them of Strabrock to make head against the Earle , as those who did most resent that slaughter . But at last the Earle ( as commonly remorse cometh after bloud ) repenting , or at the intercession of friends , gives the lands of Dalkeith , Newlands , and Kilbugho , to Mary daughter to the Lord of Liddesdale , by resignation in favour of her ( as is extant in our publick Register ) to regain the favour and dependance of his friends , that were alienated from him ; retaining Liddesdale and his other Borderlands and Offices in his owne person : for we finde in the Register James Douglas sonne to William Earle of Douglas , and Marre , stiled Lord of Liddesdale in a letter of pension of 200 marks sterling granted to him by King Robert the first of the Stuarts . His first care was to deliver his own inheritance from the English bondage , for which purpose having gathered together a company of his friends . He recovered Douglasdale from them , having slain and chased them every man out of it : then encouraged with this successe , the favour of his countrey people increasing towards him , and greater companies drawing to him : he expelled them also out of Attrick Forrest and Tueddale , and the greater part of Tivedale . At that time John Copland ( I know not whether it were hee ) that had taken King David at the battell of Durham , or some other of that same name , was Captain of the Castle of Roxbrough , and seeing that the Earle of Douglas did so prevail against his countrey men , gathered together a great company of them , and went forth to oppose him , but was quickly put to flight , and constrained to retire to the said Castle again . Thus having repressed and ejected the English out of those parts of Scotland , he not contented therewith resolveth to invade them in their owne Countrey : wherefore he accompanied with the Earle of March ( his owne father in law ) and having gathered together a great power of men , as privately , and as secretly as hee could , hee marched towards England . They sent VVilliam Ramsay of Dalhousie before , and gave him order to burn Norame , and to spoil the Countrey about , to draw the English upon their hoast , which lay in ambuscade at a place called Nisbet-moore . Ramsay having done his part very dexterously as he was injoyned , having gathered together a great bootie of cattell , made as if hee would drive them into Scotland . The English to recover their goods , pursued him eagerly , and he slying of purpose drew them into the ambushment , where the Scots arising suddenly , set upon them fiercely , and put them to flight with great slaughter . There were taken prisoners , Thomas Gray and his sonne , with John Darcy a Noble man , and many others , even the greatest part of them . After this ( being encouraged by their former successe ) they did enterprise against the towne of Berwick , and took it in by scalade , not without great opposition and resistance , having been discovered by the watches . They had in their company Eugenie Garrantiers , with some fouretie Frenchmen more , whom John King of France had sent into Scotland a little before , with foure thousand crownes to wage souldiers therewith , and this was all excepting fair promises , a weake support in so great a strait ! and let it bee well marked , that men may see how farre they erre from the truth , that alledge that our Countrey and the liberty thereof hath been maintained and upheld by support from France , and not by the valour and industry of the inhabitants . The Nobility tooke the money , and divided it amongst themselves , prosecuting the warre in their owne manner by frequent incursions and inrodes . These fouretie were present at this exploit , and at other occasions where they behaved themselves valorously . It is said by some , that Thomas Stuart Earle of Angus was present at these surprises , and that he had a chiefe hand in it , as being the man that first broached it , and drew the rest to it by his perswasion : But most Authours mention onely the two former . There were slaine within the towne of Berwick , Alexander Ogle , Governour thereof , Thomas Percie brother to the Earle of Northumberland , and Edward Gray with others : but they could not winne the Castle which he held against them : whereupon King Edward coming to rescue it ; they being not able to keep the towne , rifled it , and then burnt it , and razed the walls thereof , in the yeare 1355. King Edward caused repair it again , and while that was in doing , he went himself to Roxbrough , where he kept his residence for that time : Thither came Balliol , and being wearied ( as may be supposed ) of his titular Kingdome , resigned all that hee had , which was a show and pretense to it . The King of England requesting instantly that hee would avenge him of the injuries done to him by the Scots , who would not acknowledge nor obey him , but had expelled him out of his Kingdome : King Edward heard him very willingly , and upon that pretext invaded Lowthian by sea and land : but his Navie was dispersed and broken by storme of weather , and by land the victuall was put out of the way , so as he was constrained to retire home again , after he had powred out his fury upon Edinburgh , Hadington , and other townes in Lowthian which lay in his way . He being gone , the Earle of Douglas passed into Galloway , and partly by force , partly by perswasion and entreatie , hee reduced that whole Countie to the Kings obedience ; and caused Donald Mackdowgall one of the principall men in Galloway , to take his oath of allegiance and fidelitie in the Church of Cumnock . Hollinshed attributeth this to the Lord of Niddisdale his brothers sonne , naturall sonne to the Lord of Galloway : he tooke also by force the Castle of Dalswinton and Carlaverock , and razed them . Some Histories say they were razed by composition , and upon agreement by King David himself after his returne . At this time also John Stuart sonne to Robert the Governour recovers Annandale from the enemy , and Roger Kilpatricke took in Disdeir . And even as before in their Kings minority they had done : so now during his captivitie , these his faithfull subjects made his enemies to reap but small profit of all the pains , having now again delivered this Countrey from them almost every where . Let it be remarked ( as wee said before ) to the end that Kings and Princes may think it the best policy that can bee to procure and entertain the love and heartie affection of his subjects , and more specially of his faithfull Nobilitie . Shortly after this they write , that the Earle of Douglas went into France with 3000. men , and was made Knight of the chiefest order in that Kingdome : he was present at the battell of Poictiers ; where the field being lost , and John King of France taken prisoner by Edward the black Prince ( son to King Edward the third ) the Earle of Douglas escaped very hardly , being rescued by his own men , of whom there was slain Andrew Stuart , Robert Gordon , Andrew Haliburton , and Andrew Vasse Knights . Archbald Douglas , son naturall to good Sir James , and brother to the Lord Liddisdale was taken prisoner , and with him William Ramsay of Colluthie . Archbald was known for a man of qualitie , but the other not known to be a man of any estate , and they perceiving it , the more to deceive their taker , Archbald used him as his serving-man , making him to pul off his boots , and do such other drudgerie , by which means he was set at libertie for a small ransome . Now , as these actions of warre do shew his valour and love to his Countrey , so likewise there fell out an occasion at home in matter of State Policie , which did no lesse manifest his prudencie , magnanimitie , and affection to his native soile ; which was this : King David being returned from his captivity , after he had spent some five years in settling of the troubles and affairs of his Kingdome , after he had fined such as had fled first at the battell of Durham , and composed such broiles and disorders as were amongst his subjects , at last in the year 1363 ▪ he kept a Parliament . There he propounded unto the Estates , that they would give way to the uniting of the two Kingdomes of Scotland and England ; and seeing he himself had no children , be contented to give way , that King Edward of England , or his son , might be his Successour . Whether he made this proposition , because he did judge it ▪ indeed to be most profitable for both Kingdomes , so to end all their quarrells , and warres , or that he had taken a great liking of the King of Englands son , or else that he had been constrained to promise and sweare to do it by King Edward , when he was in his power , or some other occasion , it is uncertain . But the motion was so ill taken by all that were there present , that they had no patience to stay till every mans vote were asked in his turn , but altogether with one voice did cry out with a confused noise and clamour , detesting it , and protesting , that so long as they were able to bear armes , they would never give their consent thereunto ; that they had one of age to be heir already , whensoever God should call him . Especially the Earle of Douglas took it so to heart , that he entred into League with Robert Stuart Earle of Stratherne , ( who was next heir , and was chiefly prejudiced hereby ) with Patrick Earle of March , George Earle of Murray his brother , John Stuart of Kile , ( afterward Robert the third ) and Robert Stuart of Monteith ( after Duke of Albanie ) to withstand and oppose this businesse to the uttermost of their powers , in case the King should prosecute it , and to defend themselves if he would use violence against them . And they were so forward herein , and went so farre on in it , that it had almost come to an open rebellion . Neither were they reconciled untill the King changed his purpose ; And then by the mediation of the Prelats of the Realm , they desisted , and gave their oath of fidelitie to him again in the year 1366. having been at variance and jealousie the space of two or three years . The English Writers would make it seem to have been but collusion , and that the King did but propound it for exoneration of his promise to King Edward , and was glad of the refusall , for that he was not to labour further in it . But our Histories signifie no such thing , and say directly that he did it sincerely , and was highly offended with the deniall for the time , and that those who had refused , looked for the worst , and set themselves for defence ; yea , that they went so farre , that some of them made incursions upon the towns and villages in the Countrey , to terrifie the King ( saith Major ) and that he might learne to know , that the whole Kingdome did not altogether depend upon him , but upon the good counsell , and mature advice of the Nobility . And Boetius writes , that the convention being dissolved , there followed rebellion of some of the Nobility : whilest they feared that they had offended the King with their free speeches , determining to enterprise and do somewhat before they should be caused to suffer . Such is the force of jealousie when it entereth into mens breasts . And therefore it is to be eschewed with great care , and the occasions thereof cut off betimes : For it cometh often to passe , that upon such suspitions , when neither partie have had an ill meaning , but have been afraid of ill , and sought to prevent it , such inconveniences have followed , as would not have fallen out otherwise . And therefore above all things assurance should be given to Counsellours , and free voters , that in their free delivering of their opinions , they shall not offend there ; or if they do suspect they have offended him , the suspition should be removed betimes , and they put in securitie . And this King David did in this matter , as the most judicious of our Writers say . They that had carried out against it most freely ( saith he ) hearing that the King was angry , were about to have made defection , whose fear when the King understood , he remitting all wrath , received them immediatly into favour . By this wise government and modestie on all sides suspition was taken away , and howbeit he was offended for the time , because they did not yeeld to his desire , yet afterward he rejoyced greatly ( as certainly he had great cause ) to see the true and heartie affections of his subjects to their Countrey , to his own bloud , and the house of Bruce , the uprightnesse , sincerity , and magnanimitie ( vertues requisite and necessary for Counsellours ) in resisting even himself for himself , for his own honour and good , which were both greatly interessed by this his desire , if he had obtained it ; being so prejudiciall to his sister , and her off-spring , who have happily succeeded yet since , besides the breach of oath to his father , the servitude of his Countrey , subjecting it to strangers , and the stain of his honour for ever , to have been the authour of so unworthie a fact . And without all doubt , it was greatly against the security of his own Person , in regard of the ambition of his designed Successour and Heir ( King Edward ) and his impatiencie to abide Gods leasure , who in a colder hope , had used indirect means to make away Thomas Randulph . What would not that man have attempted for a certain possession ? And what miserable case had the Person of this good King been in , if he had gotten his own will ? if his will had been accounted as a Law by these his subjects ? A notable example to Counsellours , of freedome , where their Princes good , and the good of their Countrey doth require it : to Princes of modestie in opposition made to that which may be their will for a time , and whereunto for the present appearance they may be verie bent . A happy King that can so dispole himself not to be wedded to his own affections onely ! Or if not so , yet happy is hee that hath such Counsellers , who will resolutely remonstrate the right , and stand to it , by which means he may be brought to examine his own affections , to see the errours of them , and rejoyce thereafter that he did not what he most desired . Certainly , this King hath rejoyced at it all the rest of his dayes , living in great quietnesse some foure or five yeares . There was not any grudge , heart-burning or suspition after this between him and any of them : such was the integritie of heart on both sides , and so it should be in reconcilements ; otherwise enmities must be perpetuall , or would be so , if it were not hoped that the reconciliation would bee sincere , and entire . Nay , where it is not so , that peace is worse then any warre , and nothing else but a snare to entrap men . King David died in the Castle of Edinburgh in the Towre which he himself had caused build , and is called from his name Davids Towre , in the yeare 1370. the nine and thirtieth yeare of his reigne , and was buried at Holyrood-house . After his de●…rease there was a Convention of the States at Linlithgow , to have Crowned Robert Stuart son to Marjorie Bruce King Roberts daughter . Thither went the Earle of Douglas , and did claime the Crowne ; where he was so strongly accompanied , that they feared hee would have taken it by force , if it were not given him voluntarily . He alledged that he was to be preferred before Robert Stuart , because his right was derived both from Balliol and Cummin . Now for the better understanding of the ground of his claime , wee must remember that King Alexander the third dying without heires , the title of the Crowne was devolved to David Earle of Huntington , brother to the said Alexanders Grandfather , King VVilliam . This David of Huntington ( as Histories relate ) had three daughters , Margaret , Isabel , and Alda or Ada. The eldest ( Margaret ) was married to Allane Lord of Galloway ; Isabel the second , to Robert Bruce , called commonly Robert the Noble ; the third , Alda or Ada , to Henry Hastings , whose Posteritie doth still yet happily with good report possesse the Earledome of Huntington . This Alane Lord of Galloway had by his wife Margaret ( eldest daughter to David ) two daughters ( as is most commonly reported ) Dornagilla and Mary . Dornagilla his eldest daughter was married to John Balliol , father to that John Balliol who was afterward Crowned King of Scotland . Mary his second daughter was married to John Cummin Earle of Marre , and ( by her ) Lord of Galloway , called Read John Cummin slain by King Robert Bruce at Dumfrees . Some write that this Alane had three daughters , and that the eldest was married to one Roger Earle of Winton , of whom seeing we have no mention in pretension to the Kingdome , it is apparent that either there hath been no such woman , or that she hath died without children . Buchanan sayes he had three daughters at his death in the life of Alexander the second . Also Boetius ( in his thirteenth book , fol. 294. ) saith the same , and calleth this man Roger Quincie Earle of Winton , who ( saith he ) was made Constable for his father in law Alane , and continued in that Office untill the dayes of King Robert Bruce , and then being forfeited for treason , the Office of Constable was given to Hay Earle of Arrall : hee sayes also that John Cummin did not marry one of Alanes daughters , but one of this Quincies Earle of Winton , who had married the said Alanes eldest daughter , which is carefully to bee marked . Hollinshed sayes the same in his Chronicle of Scotland , and calleth him Roger Quincie . John Cummin had by Mary his wife one onely daughter , called Dornagilla , who was married to Archbald Douglas slain at Halidon hill , father to this Earle William , of whom wee now speake ; whereby hee was Grandchild to Mary , and great Grandchilde to Margaret ( David of Huntingtons eldest daughter ) and by consequent reckoning from David of Huntington his daughter , 1 Margaret , 2 her daughter Mary , 3 Martes daughter , 4 this Earle William is the fourth person . On the other side , for Robert Stuart , reckoning likewise from the said David of Huntington ; his daughter 1 Isabel , her sonne , 2 Robert Bruce Earle of Carrict , 3 his sonne King Robert , 4 his daughter Marjory . 5 her sonne Robert Stuart is the fifth person , which is a degree further then the Earle of Douglas , who was in equall degree with Marjory his mother . This reckoning is not unlike that whereby Robert Earle of Carrict did claim it before when he contended with Balliol ; for Bruce was a Male and a degree neerer , equall with Balliols mother , and this Earle was also the Male , and a degree neerer then Stuart , equall with his Mother ; and besides all this , he was come of the eldest of Davids daughters , which Bruce was not . This was the ground of his claim ; but finding his pretension evill taken , and disliked by all the Nobility , and disputing that which had been decided long before in favour of King Robert Bruce , who had been confirmed King , and to whom Balliol had renounced whatsoever right he could claim ; to whom also and to his posterity they all , and Earle Williams owne predecessours , had sworn obedience , and continued it the whole time of his life , and of his sonne David the space of 64. yeares . To which Robert Bruce , and not to David of Huntington , Robert Stuart was to succeed ; wherefore the Earles chiefest friends George and John Dumbars , Earles of March and Murray , his brothers in law by his first wife , and Robert Ereskene his assured friend , keeper of the three principall Castles in Scotland , Dumbartan , Stirlin and Edinburgh , disswaded him from it : And so he was contented to desist , and joyning very willingly with the rest of the Nobilitie , accompanied him to Scone , and assisted at his Coronation ; being no lesse acceptable and commended for his modest acquiescing , then he had been before displeasing for his unseasonable motion . For the which in token of his good will , and that hee might so much the more tie the Earle to him , the new King bestowes two very honourable gifts upon him : His eldest daughter Euphane on the Earles son James , that failing heires Male , the Crowne might so fall to his house . The other benefit was bestowed upon the Earle himselfe , the marriage of Margaret Stuart Countesse of Marre and Angus , daughter and heire to Earle Thomas : This Countesse of Marre and Angus did beare to this Earle , George Earle of Angus , that was married to one of King Robert the thirds daughters ; as we shall see in the house of Angus . It is knowne that these two lived after from thenceforth in good friendship , as Prince and Subject without suspition , grudge , or eye ▪ list on either partie ; for neither did the King remember it as an aspiring , whereby to hold a continuall suspicious eye over him ; neither did he feare the King as jealous of it , or as esteeming that he had suffered vvrong in the repulse , nor seekking any means to prosecute it further , laying aside all quarrells vvith the cause in sinceritie on both sides . This should be the practice of all honest hearts , and is the onely mean to end all debates , entertain peace , and keepe humane society : farre contrary to this novv called vvisedome of diffidence , distrust , jealousie , curbing and keeping under those vvith vvhom vvee have had any difference , vvhich is the onely vvay to foster variance , and to make enmitie eternall . For trust deserveth truth , and moves a man to deserve that trust , and to be vvorthy of it . Time vvins and allures even the wildest minds of men , and also of beasts , even of fierce lions , if it bee not a monster in natu●…e , or worse then a monster , one amongst a thousand , which is the onely true and solid policie , that makes the hearts of men ours ; for men must be led by their hearts , and by no other way , and so imployed , or else let no man thinke ever to make any great use of them . King Robert after his Coronation made divers Earles and Barons ( or Lords ) and Knights ; amongst whom James Lindsay of Glenaske was made Earle of Crawford . This same yeare the peace with England was broken , which had been made with King David at his releasing from captivitie for foureteene yeares , and had now continued not above foure or five yeares onely . The occasion of it was this : there is a yearely Faire in Roxbrough , and some of the Earle of Marches servants going thither , were slain by the English that kept the Castle thereof . When the Earle of March craved justice , and could not obtain it , the next yeare when the Faire day came again , hee having gathered a sufficient power of men , invaded the Towne , slew all the Males of any yeares , and having rifled it , and taken a great ●…poil and booty , he burnt it to the ground . We reade that a good while after this , the Earle of Northumberland and Nottingham set forward toward Scotland with an army of three thousand men at armes , and seaven thousand archers , and sent forth Sir Thomas Musgrave with three hundreth speares , and three hundreth archers to Melrosse , to trie what hee could learne of the Scots in those parts , with whom the Earle of Douglas encountring , tooke Sir Thomas himself , a hundreth and twentie prisoners , besides those that were slain . The same yeare ( 1380. ) the Earle Douglas entred England with twentie thousand men , and went to the Faire of Pennure ; and having taken all the goods that were there , he burnt the Towne . Hollinshed in his English Chronicle speaking of that journey ( in all likelihood ) saith they brought away fouretie thousand cattell , and were assaulted by the way , but came into Scotland with the prey , having lost some few of their men ; he sayes the occasion of it was , because the men of Newcastle had taken a Scottish ship well known to be a Pirate , but very rich , worth seaventy thousand pound , whereat the Scots being angry , and offended , made this incursion . About this time the Earle of Douglas intreateth for mercy to James Lindsay Earle of Crawford , who had been banished a certain time before for killing of John Lyon , sonne in law to the King , and Chancellour ( as some call him ) or Secretary as others : hee was the first of the name of Lyon , of whom the house of Glammes is descended . This Lyon was a young man endued with all the naturall gifts of body and minde that could be . Hee was comely in personage , well bred , and of a good carriage , & winning behaviour , which made him to be wel liked of of all men , and in speciall by this James Lindsay , who received him into his traine , and made him his Secretarie . By this occasion being often at Court , the King tooke notice of him , and liking his deportment , and upon Crawfords commendation , tooke him into his service , and made him his Domestick Secretary . It fell so out at last , that the Kings daughter ( by Elizabeth Moore ) fell in love with him , and was made with childe by him ; which he revealed to the Earle of Crawford . The Earle fearing that the King would take the matter heavily and hainously , and use the young man hardly , devised this way for his safetie : hee causeth another Gentleman of his acquaintance to take the blame on him , and to absent himselfe as guilty ; and then being very familiar with the King , deals with him to bestow his daughter ( seeing shee had thus falne ) on John Lyon , and to give him the lands of Glams with her ; which was done accordingly . He got also for his coat of Armes , the flowre de-luce , field argent , and a Lion azure , with a double treasure , and a womans head for his Crest . What unthankfulnesse the Earle of Crawford did finde in him afterwards , or did apprehend and conceive , it is not particularly set downe ; but finding his owne credit with the King to decrease , and John Lyons to increase , and taking Lyon to be the cause thereof , esteeming it great ingratitude after so great benefits he tooke it so highly , and with such indignation , that finding him accidentally in his way a little from Forfaire , he slew him very cruelly , and fearing the Kings wrath , fled into a voluntary exile : and so he remained certain yeares , untill ( at the Earle of Douglas intercession ) the King suffered himself to be so farre entreated , as that he was restored , obtained pardon , and received into the Kings favour . What interest the Earl of Douglas had in it , and what friendship with the Earl of Crawford , or what pitie of his afflicted estate , or commiseration of him ; or weighing the cause that drew him to so hard a fact ( as great men will regard one another , where they think they have been evill requited by them to whom they have been beneficiall ) or how necessary the presence of so worthy a man was for the King and Countries present estate , it is hard to conjecture : but this is cleare , that the Earle of Douglas hath beene not a little respected and accounted of at that time , seeing at his sute the King consented to forgive the murther of his owne sonne in Law , and to receive the Authour thereof into favour . The yeare following , ( which was 1381. ) there ensued a truce between the two Countries for three yeares . There met for concluding of this truce John of Gant Duke of Lancaster , who was Uncle to King Richard the second , with some other Lords of the English side : and for the Scots , the Earle of Douglas and March. In the very time of their meeting and treatie , both parties were informed of the insurrection made by Jack Straw in England , and both dissembled the matter untill the truce were agreed upon . Then when all was ended , the Earle of Douglas with a generous wisedome ( farre from that which is now in vogue and request ) addrest himself to the Duke of Lancaster , and told him , that from the very first beginning of their conference , hee was not ignorant in what estate the affaires in England were ; but that they were so farre from catching hold of any advantage of the time , and from making either of peace or warre accordingly , that they had the rather consented to the truce , because of the troubles in England . And for your selfe ( saith he ) if it please you , you may remain here in Scotland , untill these tumults bee setled , or if you had rather return home , you shall have 500. horse to accompany you , and to set you safe in what place in England you please . The Duke thanked them for their courtesie , but thinking that hee needed it not at that time , made no use of either of their offers . But afterwards being on his journey home , when he found that they shut the gates of Berwick against him , and would not receive him into the Towne , he came backe againe , and was conveyed to Haliroodhouse by the Earle of Douglas and his brother Archbald Lord of Galloway , and remained there till matters were composed in England . After the truce was expired , Archbald Lord of Galloway , assisted by his brother the Earle of Douglas , and by the Earle of March , wonne the Castle of Lochmabane , as we shall heare in the life of the said Archbald . Upon this the Duke of Lancaster by way of revenge made an incursion upon Scotland , in which having rifled Edinburgh , and wasted the Countrey , he returned home . And he being gone , the Earle of Douglas tooke in all the Castles and houses of strength in Tivedale , which the English had kept since the battell of Durham , Roxbrough onely excepted , and purged that Countrey of Brigands and Robbers , who had in time of the warre beene very licentious and bold . This was the last work of this Nobleman , worthy ( say our Writers ) of his house and Predecessours , for he died soone after of a Fever in the Castle of Douglas , and was buried in Melrosse in the Abbey , in the year 1384. as they reckon , and is likely : for his sonne James is stiled Earle in the yeare 1385. March 20. Of what age he was at his death it cannot be certainly collected : but from his fathers death at Halidoun hill we have 51 yeares after he began to come upon the stage , and appeare in businesse , and the affaires of his Countrey : 30. yeares at least or 40. since we account that he came home before the battell of Durham . He was a man ( without question ) of exceeding great valour , whom even the English Writers spare not to call one of the most valiant personages in his dayes , within the Realme of Scotland : And certainly his actions beare no lesse , even as they are summarily set downe . But if all had beene particularly described , with the full circumstances , it would have beene farre more cleare . And not onely his valour would have appeared , but his wisedome also , travell , and diligence , which he must needs have used in recovering of so many Countreyes and Castles , as he is recorded to have wonne , and in so many yeares , as he was employed in continuall action , ever victorious , without mention of any repulse , overthrow , or evill successe , where himselfe was Conductor , and we may say , nor elsewhere , safe at the battell of Durham . Now all is involved in generall , and rowled up in grosse , expressing little or nothing of the accidents , or particular wa●…es of his exploits , onely they tell us this road he made , and these Castles he wonne , and tell the event indeed to have beene successefull , but no more . This good fortune ( as men call it ) though it be commended , and commendable in Leaders , yet it is seldome alone , but accompanied with vertue , to which it gives the lustre , and without which he could never have atchieved such enterprises . The love he carried to his Countrey , and to the libertie thereof , needs no declaration . Those his travells declare it , which could have no other end , chiefly that act of withstanding King David in bringing in a forraine King , with such resolution , even to the discontentment of his Soveraign , to whom otherwayes he had beene ever most obedient , with the hazzarding of his person and estate . In which opposition , if we weigh it narrowly , how many vertues doe appeare ? An unspeakable love to his Countrey , with such hazzard , freedome of minde , and uprightnesse farre from flatterie , or any dissimulation ; not following his Princes humour , or soothing him in his present disposition , but regarding vvhat vvas most for his good and honour , vvhat best for his Countrey , and vvhat the King vvas like to acknovvledge best for him , vvhen he should be out of that fit . We may also see in it a strange magnanimitie and courage , in his resolving ( as he did vvithout all doubt ) to part vvith all that the vvorld could affoord , and vvhatsoever is deare to men in the vvorld , rather then not to maintaine that vvhich he accounted to be right , his life , lands , dignities , honours , and all such things , both for himselfe and his posteritie . For what was that banding for it , but a plaine opposing himselfe to the power of both the Kings ( Scottish and English ) the S●…iter , and for whom it was suited ; who questionlesse would both have concurred in that cause : and what could the consequent of opposing then be other , then the losse of his life , lands , and all ? or what other hope could he have ? and what meanes to double it out ? The more is his constancie remarkable that never yeelded up that disposition . As for his wisedome , it is included in all these things , and doth shine in all his actions , which without it could not have beene performed . Likewise in that favour which was borne unto him by men , the causes of favour are employed , and such qualities and vertues are apt to gaine and procure affection , to wit , gentlenesse , meeknesse , sobernesse , liberality , and the like ; his gen●…rosity and courteous humility in his speech , which are the true and onely meanes of acquiring the good will and hearts of men : his generous minde and courteousnesse appeared in his speech and carriage towards the Duke of Lancaster , his justice in pacifying the Countrey , and purging out the theeves : a worthy catastrophe of so well an acted life . Some may think him ambitious in standing for the Crowne , but if he thought he had right , what could he doe lesse ? it was no ambition to seek what was his due . And there was as great appearance of right on his side , as might have deceived a better Lawer than he was . Yet let it be his ambition , and that he was not so ignorant but that he knew where the title was : have not many dispenced with great duties in that case ? And is it not thought halfe dutie , not to be over precise in dutie ; and half justice , not to look too narrowly to justice ? Si violandum est jus , &c. If law or lawfulnesse should be broken , where should it rather be broken , then for a Kingdome ? which is not so much the saying of one man , as the tacite opinion of almost all men , as appeares by the approbation of themselves , and all others after they have gotten it . It were to be wished that errour were away , and men saw as well the inward thornes , as the outward pearles of the Diademe , that they might let it lye at their foot , and not take it up , though they might have it for the lifting : but that will be called a Stoicall Philosophy , and even the Stoicks are thought to have much adoe to keepe themselves in that moderation . Neither doe men beleeve them when they say they doe it in lesser matters , where they may attaine them : and what they lack is thought to be for want of power and dexteritie to compasse and obtaine , not of judgement to contemne or neglect . What could the Earle Douglas then doe , who was not so well school'd or skill'd ? who had honour and glory for the great objects of his intentions , which is the objects of these great spirits , and many think it should be so . So that in regard of this common opinion of men , and the instructions of that age , yea of all ages , even of this age almost , in such military men , or politicke wise men , who are not pedants ( as they call them ) or Theologues ( to give them the best name men terme them with ) I thinke it not so strange that he insisted , as I marvell that he desisted so soone , and easily : neither can I so much dispraise his motion , as I have reason to commend his modestie . For his motion , belike , hath not beene immodestly moved , or too vehemently pressed , that he gave it soone over ; farre from the unbridlednesse of turbulent mindes , that would rather have moved heaven and earth ( as we say ) to have come to their purpose , and have cast themselves , their Countrey , and all , into confused broillerie and into forraine hands and power : nay ( which is more and worse then meerely forraine ) into English , our enemies , which would be flat slaverie , as both the Balliols ( John and Edward ) had done before him , and the last of them on no better , nay not so good a ground . Wherefore if we will needs call it ambition , yet certainly it hath not beene of the worst sort thereof , neither unruly , nor immoderate , but by the contrary , very sober and temperate , and such as may well fall , and often doth fall into the best and greatest spirits , that are not brought up and deeply instructed in the inmost and profound points of humane and divine Philosophie Of which sort how few be there ? and how meanly are they accounted of ? Let us either think better of them , or finde the lesse fault with him . Certainly , if he cannot be fully excused , yet can he not be over hardly censured , neither condemned : yea , no more condemned for the moving , then praised for his speedy leaving off , and yeelding , truly acquiescing , and sincerely obeying in all times thereafter . Of James , the second of that name , the eleventh Lord , and second Earle of Douglas , slaine at Otterburne . UNto William the first Earle his son James did succeed , a man in all kinde of vertue worthy of so great a father , and honourable place ; who was no whit inferiour to him either in courage or fortunatenesse , unlesse we account him lesse fortunate for that he lived but few yeares : wherefore wee shall heare his owne judgement at his death . He had two wives , Euphane eldest daughter to the King ( as we have said ) by his wife the Earle of Rosses daughter : yet the genealogie of the Kings in the Acts of Parliament sayes that she was daughter to Elizabeth Moore , and not the Earle of Rosses daughter . He had a son by her , who lived not halfe a yeare : he had also two base sons , William ( of whom is descended the house of Drumlanrig , as evidents do witnes given by Jacobus Douglas Comes de Douglas silio nostro ) and Archbald of whom is come the house Cavers and Sheriffes of Tivedale , who if they had beene lawfull , had been sonnes to the Kings daughter , and had succeeded to the Earledome before his brother Archbald the Grimme , who did succeed to him . But though they did not succeed , yet have they shewed themselves very worthy , and amongst the chief great men of the land . Of this William also are descended the houses of Coshogle , Pinyerie , Daveine , and others in Niddisdale : for Archbald Douglas the first of Coshogle , was second sonne to this William of Drumlanrigge , and was married to one Pringle of the house of Galasheiles , who bore to him twelve sonnes , and after his death shee was married to one Carnel Wallace , and bore twelve more to him also . Touching Earle James his actions , which were done in his fathers daies , one thing we have spoken of them in his fathers life , as most proper : there is one thing more , besides what hath been said , recorded of him by some ; that during his fathers life he was sent into France , for renewing t●…e ancient League with that Kingdome ; in which Ambassage were joyned with him Walter Wardlaw , Cardinall and Bishop of Glasgow , and his Uncle Archbald , Lord of Galloway . This is said to have been in the yeare 1381. which is the eleventh yeare of the reigne of Robert Stuart . The occasion of it was a message that came out of France from Charles the sixth , who desired to have it so . After his returne in September , hee recovered the towne of Berwick from the English ; and entring England with a competent power , burnt and spoyled all the Countrey about as farre as Newcastle . About the time of his fathers decease ( in the yeare 1384. ) there was a Truce concluded between France and England , to last a yeare , in which Scotland was also comprehended . This treatie was at Boloigne , or at Lillegham ( as others write ) and for intimation hereof , some French men were directed to come into Scotland : but while they prepare themselves too negligently , the Earles of Northumberland and Nottingham , with such as lay nearest to the Scottish Marches , laying hold of this opportunitie to annoy Scotland , so that the Scots should have no time to revenge it before the truce were proclaimed , entered Scotland with an Army of 20000. or ( as others say ) 10000. horse , and 6000. Archers and Bowmen , and spoyled the Countrey farre and wide ; especially the lands pertaining to the Douglasses , and Lindsayes . The Scots who trusting to the brute of the truce dreamed of no such thing , finding themselves thus used , were greatly grieved with their owne sloth , and no lesse incensed at the fra●…d and falsehood of England , and resolved to avenge the same . In the mean time the report of the English incursion coming to the eares of the French , who had the charge to intimate the assurance , admonished them of their slownesse : wherefore to make amends ( though somewhat too late ) they hasten over to London in the very time that the English Army was in Scotland . There they were very chearefully received , and magnificently entertained with feasting and banquetting , and under this colour cunningly detained , untill it was knowne that the English Army was come home and dismissed : then being suffered to depart , they came into Scotland , and shew their Commission . The greatest part of the Nobility , but chiefly the Earle of Douglas and such as with him had received great losse by that expedition , cried out against the craft of the English , that this their fraud and manifest ludification was no way to be suffered . The King went about to pacifie them , and shewed plainly that hee meant to receive and keep the truce , which they perceiving , drew out the matter at length by reasoning and arguing to and fro , untill such time as they had gathered together quietly 15000. horsemen ; then Douglas , Dumbarre and Lindsay , withdrew themselves from Court without noise , at a day appointed ; and joyning their companies at the place of rendevous , enter England with displayed banners , waste and spoile Northumberland to Newcastle . Then they doe the like to the Earle of Nottinghams lands , and the Mowbrayes , and so returne home with a huge prey of men and cattell . Straight after their returne the truce was proclaimed meeting fraud , not with fraud , but with open force , by a just and honest recompence and retalliation . Neither were the English discontented for all this to accept the truce , acknowledging that the Scots had reason to doe what they did , or confessing their owne weaknesse and want of ability to avenge it at this time , or both , by their sitting still and acceptation : for neither could right ( though weake ) have had patience in so great an injury , neither would force ( if it had thought it selfe sufficient ) have been bridled with reason onely in so manifest an affront , and so great dammage . How ever it be , they stirred not , and so the truce was kept till it expired of it selfe . When it was runne out , John de vienne a Burgundian , a very valiant man , Admirall of France , and Earle of Valentinois , arrived in Scotland , and brought with him 2000. men , amongst whom were 100. men at Armes . He brought also 400. Curiasses , and 400. halfe long swords to be distributed amongst the Scots , and ( as some write ) 50000. Crownes . Before their coming James Earle of Douglas entred into England with a new Armie ; and upon their arrival was called back to Court , where they attended his coming . Then having consulted of their businesse , and the Army being ready , they accompanied him into England , where they tooke in the Castles of Wark , Foord and Cornewall , and spoyled and burnt the Country between Berwick and Newcastle . But when they intended to goe on further , the continuall rain that fell in great abundance ( being in Autumne ) did so spoile the wayes , and raise the waters , and wet the Souldiers with their armour , that they were forced to retire home again into Scotland . In the mean time King Richard greatly moved that the Scots must bring in strangers to waste his Countrey , entereth Scotland with an Army of 60000. foot , and 8000. horse , and used all sort of Hostilitie in the Merse and Lowthian , not sparing the religious houses and persons , such as Newbotle , Melrosse and Dribrough , with the Monkes thereof . The French Admirall better remembring , and more carefull of his Masters directions , then considering what was fit to bee done , dealt earnestly with the Earle of Douglas to give him battell . But the Earle knowing better , and regarding more the good of his Countrey , and weighing with judgement the English power and forces , would no wayes listen to him : he told him it was not for want of affection to doe the King of France service that he refused to fight , but in respect of the unequall number and appointment of the Armies at that time . And that he might the better see the English forces , he tooke him up to a hill , from whence they might have a reasonable view of them as they passed by in order ; which when the Admirall had seen , and considered thereof , hee easily yeelded to the Earles opinion . Hollinshed setteth downe the oddes , saying , that the Scots and French were not above 8000. speares , and 30000. of all other sorts , and the most part of those not well armed : where he reckoneth of English 6000. horse , and 60000. Archers , which are 2000. horses fewer then our Histories do reckon . In this inequalitie therefore being no lesse a wise Conductour , then a valiant Warriour , he resolved not to hazard a battell , but determined to take another course , which he did , for he entered England on that quarter , which was furthest distant from the English Army , and wasted Cumberland and the adjacent Countrey neare to it . The King of England being advertised hereof , purposed to have followed him , and forced him to fight , but being better advised , and put in mind ( no question ) of what had be●…allen his Grandfather ( Edward the third ) at Stanhope Parke against good Sir James , he altered his purpose , and marched the readiest way home . And so both Armies having spoiled and wasted each others Countreyes , they returned without encountring or fight of other . In the return the Earle Douglas perswaded them to besiege Roxbrough Castle , making full account that the King of England would not raise a new Army before the next Spring , and so they sat downe before it ; but it did not continue eight dayes ere they raised the siege . The cause was a reasonlesse demand of the Frenchmen , who would needs have the Castle to bee given to them , and to belong to the King of France , when it were wonne from the enemy . This demand did so offend the Scots , that they could by no means heare of it , and so the enterprise was deserted upon this occasion , but chiefly by the Frenchmens insolent and licentious behaviour and carriage in the warres ; who rob and steal , and use all manner of force and violence : there arose many times great strife , and many quarrells between the Country people , and them : for the Country people watched them when they were alone , or but few together , and sometimes robbed them of their horses , sometimes of their valises and luggage : sometimes they hurt , and at other times slew of them . The French Commanders complained to the Kings Councell , and the common people answered , that they had received more losse and hurt by the French , who professed themselves to be friends , then they had done by the English , who were sworne enemies . And therefore they said it were reason that the French should no wayes be suffered to goe home , untill they had satisfied for the wrongs they had done . The Earle Douglas in this hard case seeing they were strangers that came to aide Scotland , was willing partly to bear with their faults , as proceeding from an evill custome and form used at home in France , and therefore interposed himself to have mitigated the people , but could hardly pacifie them , yet at last with great instancy and entreatie , being greatly favoured , and generally well beloved and popular , hee obtained that the common Souldiers , and the Army should be suffered to returne into France , and that their Captains and Commanders should be retained still untill satisfaction were made for the losse they had sustained . And so the King of Frances desire was satisfied , who had then sent for them , and withall order taken with the dammage done by them . This was the aide , and this was the successe of the help received from France now the second time . It was very small before , and it is now to very little purpose : more hurtfull and troublesome to the Countrey , then of importance against the enemy . A●…ter their embarking the Scots remained still in England the space of two moneths , and then the English having withdrawne and conveighed all the victuall out of the way , they returned into Scotland . And hereby they did show clearly how little they leaned to forrain aid , without which there greater enterprises were ever performed : neither was there ever either by these , or by others before or since ( though we looke over all Histories ) any great exploit atchieved . All the help they ever got was onely in the besieging of some Townes at some happening times , and some such trifles scarce worth the naming , in respect of the whole power of the body and state of the Countrey which I remark again , and commend to the Reader to be truely considered for vindicating the valour and worth of the inhabitants , from that obloquie and unequall judgement of such as diminish and impair it : who cannot but know that it was never forraine forces ( as is wrongfully surmised ) but the vertue and valour of their Predecessours that hath preserved the honour and liberty of their Countrey , all manner of wayes : and that any one man amongst diverse of the name of Douglas hath done more in that cause , then the force of France ( if it were put all together ) did ever to this houre . The yeare following , the Earle of Douglas with Robert Stuart Earle of Fife , and Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway his Uncle , entered into England with an Army of three thousand men , passing the water of Solway so secretly , that they were at Cocket-mouth on such a sudden , that the people had no leasure to convey their goods out of the way . Wherefore having for the space of three dayes gathered together a rich bootie , they returned home through Cumberland , Westmerland , and Northumberland , into Scotland again without any encounter . Not long after Archbald Lord of Galloway in company of the same Earle of Fife , made a road into England , in revenge whereof the King of England sent an Army into Scotland , which did great harm in the Merse , and occasioned that notable battell of Otterburn . For the Scots irritated herewith boyled with de●…ire of revenge , being at that time very flourishing with strong youth , and never better furnished with Commanders . But King Robert a man by nature given to quietnesse , farre stricken in yeares ( seaventy three yeares old ) was become slacker , and seemed not to make so great account of the publique injuries . His eldest sonne John was dull of nature , and having received a hurt by a stroake of a horse , which pertained to James Douglas Lord of Dalkeith , was thereby lame of a legge , and halted , and so unfit for the travell of warre . Therefore they have their recourse to the Kings next sonne the Earle of Fife , and do easily agr●…e with him , resolving to avenge the hurt and dammage they had lately received . So every man promising his best endeavour , appointment is made to conveen in August , or ( as some say ) in July , but so covertly , as it should not come to the knowledge of either of the two Kings , lest the King of Scotland should hinder them , or the King of England prevent them ▪ yet when they had used all the expedition and secresie they could ▪ The English had notice of it , and were informed of both the day and place of their meeting . Wherefore that they might entrap them and take them at unawares , they advertised one another , and the Noblemen commanded the Commons to be in a readinesse against the next advertisement , without appointing any certain day , for feare that the Scots should heare of it . These things thus ordered when they heard that the Scots were conveened in Tivedale not farre from the March to the number of 30000. or ( as Froysard saith ) 40000. men , not daring to joyne battell with such a multitude , they concluded not to stir or appeare before the coming of the enemy , but that every man should ramain in his owne bounds , till they saw on what coast and quarter the tempest would light , and then to take the best course they could according as occasion should offer , and if they could doe no more , to invade Scotland on another hand farre from the enemy , as the Scots had done to them the yeare before , and so to recompense losse with losse : In the mean time they sent a spie to the Scots camp , who might bring them more certain report of all things ; desirous to know not onely their intention , but even their particular speeches and actions . Hee who was sent ( being nothing different from the rest in language , apparell , or armour , did easily passe for a Scot , and by that mean having been in the company undiscovered , and having observed sufficiently all that was needfull to be knowne ) as he returned to his horse to be gone , which he had bound to a tree , he found that he was taken away , whereupon taking him to his feet with his cloake , boots and spurres , and his other riding equipage ; he was perceived , suspected , taken and examined what he was , whence he came , and whither hee went : and being found to vary in his answers , hee was brought before the Generall of the Army , where being threatned with the rack , he confessed all , and revealed the English mens intentions , and purposes . Upon this the Scots altered their purpose , and whereas they were before minded to have gone all together in one Hoast , they now divided themselves in two ; so that the greatest part of the Army should passe in at Carlile , led by the Kings two sonnes , the Earles of Fi●…e and Stratherne , together with Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway , Uncle to the Earle . The other part of the Army was committed to the Earle of Douglas , and with him George and John Dumbars Earles of March and Murray ( his Uncles ) William or James Lindsay Earle of Crawford , the Earle of Arolle Constable , the Lord Montgomry , and Patrick Hepburn of Hales with his sonne : the number of his company is not agreed upon . Some say that he had the halfe of the Army , 15000. others but 2000. foote , and 300. horse , with as many foote men waiting on the horse men , who were lightly armed and able to fight , and almost equalling the horse men in speedy expedition . Some say they were foure thousand chosen horsemen in all , which is most apparent by the great diligence and haste he made : with his company he entred England on the East hand , and crossing the river of Tine with great celerity , hee was past Durham , before ever the enemy was advertised or knew of his coming , till he himselfe made it knowne by fire and smoake , in burning the Countrey . The Earle of Northumberland hearing of him , himselfe being a man of great yeares , sent his two sonnes Henrie and Ralph ( hardy and valiant young men ) to Newcastle , commanding the rest of the Countrey also to resort thither , that they might intercept the Earle of Douglas in his returne : but hee having spoyled the Countrey about Durham , and gotten a great bootie , passeth Tine again , about three miles above Newcastle ; and being desirous of glory , and encouraged by this successe , esteeming it but small honour for him to spoil the villages , and not to dare to looke upon the townes , marched towards Newcastle , and did make offer to have assaulted it , and ( as some write ) did assault it , having first filled the ditches with hay and faggots , hoping thereby to have drawne out the enemy to the open fields , having stayed there two dayes ; there passed some light skirmishes amongst them every day : And at last , Henrie Percie eldest sonne to the Earle of Northumberland ( called Hotspurre ) being desirous to trie his valour , either provoking the Earle Douglas , or provoked by him ; the combate was offered , and accepted betwixt them . They mounted on two faire steeds , and ran together with sharp ground spears at outrance ; in which encounter the Earle Douglas bore Percie out of his saddle . But the English that were by did rescue him so that hee could not come at himself , but he snatched away his spear with his guiddon or witter ; and holding it aloft , and shaking it , he cried out aloud , that hee would carry that into Scotland as his spoil . Hollinshed saith ( out of F●…oysard ) that they did not runne on horseback , but that in an assault at the Barriers without the gate , Douglas by chance being matched hand to hand with Percie , by force pluckt his Pennon from him , and holding it up on high , said , he would carry it for his sake into Scotland . There was then at Newcastle a great number of people , for besides the indwellers , there were all the choice men from York to the borders , as the Writers relate . Wherefore Earle Douglas ( in respect of his small number ) caused keep strait watch ; and on the morrow removing his Camp , he marched toward Scotland a slow pace , being loden with bootie . Then sending it away before , hee assaulted , tooke , and demolished a certain Castle and Towne , that was in their way , called Pouclane , whereof Sir Aymer of Alpholl was Lord , whom he tooke within the Castle and made him a prisoner . Then marching forward , they came to a place called Otterburn , about twelve miles from Newcastle , where they pitched downe their tents , that the Souldiers might take some rest , and refresh themselves after their great travell , as not having rested that day , nor the night before , nor much any where since their entrie into England . There they consulted about the rest of their journey , and the most part advised to march toward Carlile , that they might joyne with the other Army , that so they might observe the order given them , which was not to fight at all , till both Hoasts were joyned t●…gether . But the Earle Douglas thought best to stay there some three or four daies that they might refell the Percies bragging , who had affirmed that they should not carry his speare into Scotland , and that the Souldiers might not be idle the while , they might be taking in the Castles , and Gentlemens houses about , that lay neare . To this opinion the others did yeeld for his sake , howsoever it seemed not to be the most expedient : so they fortified and strengthned their Camp as well as they could on that side where it was weake , being fensed with Marishes on the other sid●… : they went and besieged a certain Castle , called Combure . Percie would fain have followed them presently upon their retreat , but he was hindered by the better advised , for fear of an ambush : for they thought it was not likely , that the Scots being so fevv in number vvould have assaulted 〈◊〉 strong a Towne , unlesse they had knovvne of some greater povver to succour and aid them . Having therefore searched diligently that day , and the next , and understanding that the other great Army wat not to bee feared , as being far from the Earle Douglas ; Percie marched towards him with 10000. strong , not staying for the Bishop of Durham , who was said to be at Newcastle that same night , esteeming his present forces sufficient to overthrow his enemies , who were fewer in number by the one halfe at least . The avantcurriers of the English Hoast were come in sight , whilest the Scots were some at supper , and others gone to rest ▪ being wearied with assaulting the Castle . Hereupon the alarum was given , and the English approaching , assail them fiercely , and were received valiantly by a part of the footemen , and the lackies , and the groomes ; who having the advantage of the Fortification which had been made , sustained the charge till the rest were armed and ready . At their first encamping when they viewed the fields , they had espied a little hill which they meant to make use of if the enemy should follow and assaile them , ( as they did certainly expect ) and now it stood the horsemen in very good stead : for whiles the English assaulted the entrie of the Camp , the horse men fetching a compasse about this hill , charged them in flank at the farre side , in which charge many were slain , and the whole Army was filled with tumult and fears . But by the coming of fresh supplies , the English abounding in number , the battell was restored , and their ranks ordered as before : yet this profit it brought to the Scots , that the fight being slaked at the entrie of the Camp , they had space to go forth , and to put their men in array . In the mean time night drew on , which was troublesome , and unwelcome to both ; but being short ( as in the Northern parts it useth to be in July ) and the season faire , the Moon light did serve them in stead of Day light , and the fight was continued very hard as amongst noble men on both sides , who did esteem more of glory , then life , Percie strove to repair the foil he had gotten at Newcastle , and the Earle Douglas did as much labour to keep the honour he had wonne : So in unequall number , but both equally eager in mind , they continued fighting a great part of the night . At last a Cloud covering the face of the Moone , not being able to discerne friend from foe , they tooke some respite for a while ; but so soone as the Cloud was gone , the English gave so hard a charge , that the Scots were put back in such sort , that the Douglas Standard was in great perill to have been lost . This did so irritate him , that hee himselfe in the one wing , and the two Hepburnes ( father and sonne ) in the other , pressing through the rankes of their owne men , and advancing to the place where the greatest perill appeared , renewed a hard conflict , and by giving and receiving many wounds , they restored their men into the place from whence they had been beaten , and continued the fight untill the next day at noone . The Earle Douglas not being satisfied , nor contenting himselfe with that , that he had renewed the battell , but himselfe with two companions , Robert Hart , and Simon Glendining , rushed into ▪ the midst of the enemies , and equalling the courage of his minde with the strength of his body , whatsoever way he set himself he made great havock of the enemies . It was a wonder to see the great vassallage that he wrought : Major in describing them can make no end , nor satisfie himselfe : his comparisons are high , like a Lion of Lybia : his description of his body is , that it was faire and well compacted , his strength huge , which hee yet amplifieth with greater hugenesse , saying that he fought with a Mace of iron , which two ordinary men were not able to lift , which notwithstanding hee did weild easily , making a great lane round about him wheresoever hee went : his courage and confidence appeareth in his so valiant insisting , as though he would have slaine the whole English Army himselfe alone : and seeking to finde Henry Percie amongst the midst of them , hee was entered farre within the rankes of the enemies . Hollinshed confesseth , that with a great Mace in his hand he laid such sad strokes about him , that none came within his reach but he went downe to the ground . And Boetius saith plainly hee fought with a mase heavier then any man is able to beare in those dayes , and that rushing into the midst of his enemies , hee made such a slaughter , that it was chiefly attributed to his vertue , that the Scots wan the field . But whiles he is thus fighting in the midst of them , before his friends could come at him , though they pressed forward to have seconded and assisted him with all the force and speed that might be , they found him lying on the ground with three deadly wounds . There was lying dead by him Robert Hart ; and the Priest called Richard Lundie ( who was after made Arch Dean of Aberdene ) that had ever stood fast by his side , defended his fainting body with a halbert from injury : he being in this estate , his kinsmen James Lindsay , and John and Walter Sinclairs came to him , and asked him how he did : I do well ( saith he ) dying as my Predecessours have done before ; not in a bed of languishing sicknesse , but in the field . These things I require of you as my last Petitions , First , that yee keep my death close both from our owne folke , and from the enemy ; then that ye suffer not my Standard to be lost , or cast downe ; and last , that ye avenge my death , and bury me at Melrosse with my Father . If I could hope for these things , I should die with the greater contentment , for long since I heard a Prophesie that a dead man should winne a field , and I hope in God it shall be I. Hereupon they covered his body with a cloake that it might not bee knowne , and then hoiseing aloft his Standard , and crying ( as the manner is ) a Douglas , a Douglas , most part repairing thither from all quarters they began the fight afresh ; for not onely the common sort of Souldiers came thither , but the Earle of Murray also came with great speed , thinking that the battell went hard on that hand , for he had beaten those that he had to deal with , and Sir John Mackyrell had taken the young Percie named Ralph , and delivered him to his Master the Earle of Murray , who had sent him ( being hurt ) to the Camp to bee cured , as Froysard saith . Hollinshed and Boetius agree that it was Keith Marshall that tooke him . By this means the ardour of the battell being relented on that hand , the fight was renewed , and the strife redoubled on this side , and the Earle Douglas followers ( who were gathered about his Ensigne ) did at last scatter and defeat the English , weary with the former fight which had continued both day and night : And in this assault the Earle of Montgomery tooke Henrie Percie their Captain prisoner , whereupon the Army fled and turned their backs . There were slain in this batteil 1840. of the English , and 1040. taken prisoners , 1000. also were hurt . Of the Scots there were 100. slain , and 200. taken prisoners , whilest they followed over rashly ( fewer following more ) they turned and tooke those that would have taken them . This is the battell at Otterburn , memorable not onely for the magnanimity , courage , perseverance , tolerance of travell , and ( in victory ) modestie of Souldiers and Captains , but also for the variable event , where the victor in high expectation of glory preven●…ed by death , could not enjoy the fruit of his travels : the vanquished , albeit his Army was defeated , and himselfe made a prisoner , yet lived long after this battell with praise ; for it was no reproach to him to be overcome , nor so great a blot to have been put to the worse , as it was honourable to have so contended . The event of battells is uncertain , and onely in the hands of the highest : if men do there endeavour , what more can be required ? It is not the least part of the Percies honour that they did contest with the Douglasses , and did sometimes overcome , and sometimes were thus vanquished : thought it were but seldome that the Douglasses got the worse , when their forces were equall Here there was great inequalitie , where notwithstanding he wonne the honour through the losse of himselfe : neither was it accounted dishonour to his Army , though more in number , or to himselfe to have been thus overcome : for they are recorded to have done their endeavours , and discharged the parts of valiant men , and were onely overmatched by excellency of valour as we have showne , and as it may be seen by all Writers ; not by hunger , or cold , steepnesse of hills and mountains ; which I speake not to reproach any , but to make known the truth , and withall , not to cover vertue on either side , which was confessed of all in that age , neither was any man found of another minde : onely the Earle Marshall of England being a little after sent downe with a company to be Warden of the Borders during Percies captivitie ( who did build for his ransome the Castle of Penoun neare to Glasgow ) durst extenuate the vertue of the Scots with the reproach of his owne Countrey-men , attributing the cause of this victory , not to the valour of the Scots , but to the cowardise of the English that fought against them , boasting much of himselfe , that if hee had beene present , or if he should happen to have occasion to sight with the Scots , he should doe great matters ; but his brags were soone made to appeare but idle words : for moved by these his speeches , the Governour of Scotland ( viz. Robert Earle of Fife ) having raised an Army , went into England with Archbald Earle of Douglas ( called the Grimme ) brother to this deceased Earle ( and who did succeed him in the Earledome ) and made directly toward the Earle Marshall , and as soone as they came in sight , offered him battell : and when they could not draw him out to fight , they sent an Herauld to him to challenge him , and provoke him to fight , but all in vain , for neither did hee send back any answer , neither would hee come to an equall and even ground . Therefore they having spoyled and wasted the Countrey with fire and sword in his sight , and as it were under his nose , returned home into Scotland , to the great contentment of the Scots , and no great discontentment of the English prisoners , who were not sorry that his vanity was thus discovered . Certainly , the truth can hardly be belied , and if partiality will not , yet indifferency will beare witnesse to it . Froysard ( a stranger , and favouring more the English ) concludeth touching this battell , that in all History , there is none so notable by the vertue of the Captains , and valour of the Souldiers , fought so long , so hardely , so variable , the victory enclining dive●…sly divers times , and at last obtained , not by the cowardise of the overcome , but by the valour of the overcomers : neither is that vertue of valour onely remarkable in this place , and marked by him , but their modestie when they had overcome , rare and wonderfull to him ( as it is indeed to others ) but common enough to the Scottish Nation , practised by them often in their victories , and almost ever where some great enormitie hath not irritated them , contrary to their nature and custome ; yet here very singularly ▪ for in the heat of the conflict no men ever fought more fiercely , in the victory obtained none ever behaved themselves more mercifully ; taking prisoners , and having taken them , using them as their dearest friends , with all humanitie , courtesie , gentlenesse , tendernesse , curing their wounds , sending them home , some free without ransome , some on small ransome , almost all on their simple word and promise to return at certaine times appointed , or when they should be called upon . So that of 1000. prisoners scarce 400. were brought into Scotland , the rest all remitted in that same manner , with Ralph Percie ; and by his example , who because of his words desired this courtesie of the Earle of Murray , and obtained it , and was sent to Newcaste on his naked word to returne when hee should be called for . But what courage and confidence was it , that they durst adventure with so great perill to bee so courteous as they were ? when the Bishop of Durham approaching to invade them the next day , 10000. ( as some say ) with 7000. ( as others ) of fresh men , yet they would not kill their prisoners that were within their Campe , equall ( almost ) to the halfe of their owne number , but on their owne promises to remaine true prisoners ( how ever the field went ) and with a small guard , having onely pinioned them together with small cords , suffered them to live in the Campe , and went themselves to encounter the Bishop , full of confidence and scorn , that after the defeat of the flowre of Northumberland , with there so worthy Leaders as the Percies , that a Priest ( so they called the Bishop , should dare to set upon them , or but to abide them three marked strokes , as their Leaders said to them in his exhortation , as it came indeed to passe without any strokes : for they affrighted him with the onely sound of their hornes ( as it seems Major would say ) which they winding against him , and the hills redoubling the sound thereof , hee was affraid and durst not invade them , finding them ready and resolved to fight , whom hee thought to have found weary , because of their former travell , or negligent because of their victory . And considering ( saith Froysard ) there was more to be lost , then to be wonne at their hands , the Captain distrusting his Hoast , and the Hoast their Captain , it was thought best not to give battell , and so he retired without assaulting them . Their Leader after the Earle Douglas death , was the Earle of Murray ( saith Buchanan ) but I should rather take it to be the Earle of March , for hee was the elder brother ; and Major saith it was March. However our Scottish mens courtesie and courage is exceeedingly to be commended , who notwithstanding that they looked for nothing but to have fought with the Bishop of Durham , yet did they spare their prisoners , which ( and the like actions ) when I consider , I would gladly understand of such as delight to reproach our Nation with all the calumnies they can invent , and amongst the rest , stile them barbarous , what it is they call barbarity ? and if crueltie , and inhumanity bee not the speciall points of it ? whereof they shall never reade that any Nation were more free , or that ever hath been more courteous , humane , gentle , in peace and in warre , even at all times , and in all places . I wish all men would acknowledge the truth as it is : if they will not , yet shall it be truth , and truth shall never want a witnesse . It will be acknowledged , and must prevail to their great reproach that seek to hide or to impaire it . To return to our History : when the newes of these things were brought to the other Campe , which was in Cumberland , they were stricken with extreme griefe , and were more sorry for the death of the Earle of Douglas , then they were glad for the victory obtained ; all their joy for that successe being turned into grievous lamentation . So great was the affection of all the Army towards him , that not onely those who followed him , but those of the other Army also , retired home silent and sad , as if they had been discomfited , and overcome . It increased the commiseration of men , that he died in the flowre of his age , and that he alone should be deprived of that victory which was obtained by his vertue and valour . And I think that the same affection doth continue in the hearts of the Readers of the History , which is never mentioned without a tender compassion . And for my selfe so often I call to mind his great worth , and short life , I remember withall that of the Poet , Ostendent terris hunc tantum fata , nec ultra Esse sinent , &c. The fates shall make but of this youth a show , Such vertue must not tarry long below . And with a great hyperbole , greater then Piety can well admit , if any such speeches can be over great , which doe not import what they speak , but are onely brought to expresse the highest excellency that can be . Nimium vobis Romana propago Visa potens , superi , propria haec si dona fuissent . The Heavens had made the Roman race to be Too blest , if this gift had held on with thee . Change but the Countrey name , call it ( Scotana propago ) and you shall accommodate these verses more fitly here to this man : but most of all in the simple sense , that which followes , — Non illi quisquam se impune tulisset Obvius armato , seu cum pedes iret in hostem , Seu spumantis equi foderet calcaribus armos . No man in Armes that durst to him make head , Did scape unfoild , on foot , or foaming steed . Which he speaking of Marcellus , if he had lived , is witnessed of this Earle Douglas , even by the adversary , whiles he yet lived . To which purpose I remember that worthy Sir Philip Sidney in his defence of Poesie writeth of himself , that hee never heard the song of Douglas and Percie , but hee found his heart more moved therewith then with a Trumpet ; whereof hee alledgeth the cause to bee the force and power of Poetrie : though it bee sung ( saith hee ) by some rude crowder , and with no rougher voyce then a grosse stile . What he saith of himselfe I doubt not but others have found in themselves : neither is it the m●…sick of that rough singer , that giveth it this force , farre lesse the vertue of the grosse rime : it is the matter that gives the efficacie , and the vertue of the man that begetteth a resembling vertue in the heart ; not by Poesie , but by the rightly described History . Indeed this is the man apparantly , who hath given subject to those songs , being the first that encountred with Percie in such a particular conflict : but that which is commonly sung of the hunting of Chiviot seemeth indeed Poeticall , and a meer fiction ( perhaps to stirre up vertue ) yet a fiction , whereof there is no mention neither in the Scottish , nor English Chronicle : neither are the songs that are made of them both one , for the Scots song made of Otterburn telleth the time about Lammasse , and the occasion to take preyes out of England ; also the dividing of the Armies betwixt the Earles of Fife and Douglas , and their severall journeys , almost as in the authentick History : It beginneth thus : It fell about the Lammas tide When yeomen wonne their hay , The doughtie Douglas gan to ride , In England to take a prey . Whereas the other m●…keth another occasion , and altogether different , yet it is not more effectuall to move vertue , then the true History here set downe : nor indeed so effectuall as it . And therefore let it bee read , and read over again , by such as delight in Military vertues ; chiefly by those to whom these examples are as hereditary , and domestick , which they must needs affect , as also all the other actions of the life , but none testifying a better mind , a better resolution of the mind ; more courage , more valour , with gifts of the body , strength and activity , all ruled by reason , and guided by wisedome , as is seen in his dealing with the French men , when they would have had him to ●…ight with the King of England : which vertues of valour and wisedome so joyned , are able to make a due harmony , acceptable to a right judgement , commendable to after ages , and profitable for the present . Boetius writeth that hee died not in the field , but after the field in his owne Tent , and that the Earles of Crawford , Murray , and March , went into his Tent , and found him lying hurt with three great wounds , almost dead : at which sight , each looked upon other with a silent ast●…nishment , and then burst forth into teares and weeping : which he beholding , said unto them ( with a weake and faint voyce which could scarcely be heard ) I beseech you good friends leave your lamenting , and be glad of the present victorie which God of his goodnesse hath granted to us : We exposed our bodies to the enemies sword , to obtain that which wee have obtained : Turne therefore your teares un●…o thanks , mindefull rather of the benefit , then sorrowfull for that which is happened otherwayes then ye wished . If yee regard my paines and my life , which for you I lose , pray for my soul , and follow Vertue , and Armes , as ye doe , which you may imploy for the liberty of your Countrey , keeping concord amongst your selves , with a kinde remembrance of me . Soone after these words were utte●…ed , hee died in the armes of his friends . There are that say , that he was not slain by the enemy , but by one of his owne men , a Groome of his Chamber , whom he had struck the day before with a truncheon in the ordering of the battell , because hee saw him make somewhat slowly to : and they name this man John Bickerton of Luffenesse , who left a part of his armour behinde unfastned , and when hee was in the greatest conflict , this servant of his came behinde his back , and slew him thereat : but this narration is not so probable . He was buried at Melrosse besides his father , with a Military pompe of the whole Army , and all the honour that could bee devised for him besides by the Abbot , and Monks of that Convent , after the most solemne manner of those times : Jacobus Duglassius qui obiit ad Otterburnum Julii 21. 1388. Moriens . Quaeritis ô quid agam ? an animam jam ago , fata meorum Hac sequor . Innumero huc vulnere facta via est . Nesciat hoc hostis , sequitor quam quisque secat spem : Atque aliquis nostri funeris ultor ades . Finiit : Et subito redivivo funere surgens Mars novus intonuit , victor & ultor obit . Johnst . Herees . In English thus : My friends you aske me how I do . My soul is now prepar'd to go , Where many wounds have made her way . Conceal it , till you winne the day : Pursue your hopes : this said , he dy'd ; Then the whole rank's a Douglas cry'd , And charg'd a fresh , that thou might'st have Revenge and honour in the grave . Before we proceed to speake of the next Earle of Douglas , the order of the History requireth that first wee speake of Archbald Douglas Lord of Galloway , brother to William the first Earle of Douglas , and of the said Archbalds naturall sonne VVilliam Lord of Nithisdale . Of this Archbald we have mentioned what was remarkable in his brother Earle VVilliams life , for that was the time of his action . The first was after the battell of Penure , to bee revenged of the losse , whereof the English invaded Scotland with 50000. men ( as they say that make them the fewest ) or 40000. ( as others ) conducted by the Lord Talbot a very valiant man : with this huge number when they had spoyled the Countrey farre and wide , as they retired towards England , they were assailed at a strait passage by the Lord of Galloway , who had not above 5000. in his company : with these he discomfited his hoast , and recovered the whole bootie . There were slain of the enemies in the conflict . 400. and 200. taken prisoners , and many were drowned in the river Solway , as they fled unadvisedly . Some write that he set upon them in the night being incamped in a strait valley , not farre from England , where the first that they met withall being slain , the rest were affrighted and disordered , and so overthrowne . The next thing that we heare of him , is that he was with his brother the Earle at the conference with John of Gaunt , Duke of Lancaster , concerning a truce , and that hee accompanied the said Duke to Holyrood-house . The truce was made for three yeares . And after these were expired , the Lord of Galloway being very much grieved that there should be a Garrison of English in the Castle of Lochmabane , which did daily spoil and rob the villages and townes of Galloway , and Annandale , raised a great power by the help of his brother the Earle Douglas , and the Earle of March , and besieged the Castle for the space of eleven dayes . There came some English companies to have raised the siege , and relieved the Castle , but he repulsed them . Thereafter having assaulted it very fiercely , the Captain thereof , Sir William Ediston , yeelded it up unto him , lives and goods safe , and he having gotten it into his hands , razed it to the ground . It is written also of him that hee went into France with his Nephew James Earle of Douglas , when he was sent to renew the ancient league with that Kingdome . The last of his actions that we can finde is that hee was with his Nephew James Earle of Douglas , and the Earle of March , at the taking of Wark , Foord , and Cornhill , where he wasted and spoyled the Countrey betwixt Berwick and Newcastle with the Frenchmen . These Frenchmen not contented herewith , but desirous to doe some other exploit , joyning with Archbald Lord of Galloway , passed Solway sands , and did wonderfull great hurt in Cumberland . He is accounted by Writers , to have been a very sufficient and valorous Gentleman , and that he died before the battell of Otterburn , in the yeare 1387. He founded the Hospitall of Holiwood , and to him succeded his Nephew Archbald ( called the Grimme ) in the Lordship of Galloway , who afterwards was both Earle of Douglas , and Lord of Galloway . And here it is to be observed , that there were three Archbald Douglasses almost contemporary , which are to be distinguished , that we mistake not one for another . The first is this Archbald , brother to William the first Earle , who was Lord of Galloway , then when his brother lived , and who was father to the Lord Niddisdale . The second Archbald was son naturall to good Sir James , slain in Spain , who was made Captain of the Castle of Edinburgh , when it was taken by his brother the Lord of Liddesdale , who is wrongfully named VVilliam in our Chronicles , in stead of Archbald . He was at the battell of Poytiers , and is reported to have married in France , and remained there till his death . The third is Archbald the Grimme , of whom we shall speake hereafter . Our Writers through inadvertance doe divers times confound these three ; taking one of them for another . As when they say Archbald Lord of Galloway , sonne to sir James slain in Spain , was taken at Poytiers , it is a manifest errour : for if he was Lord of Galloway , hee was not sonne to Sir James ; if he were sonne to Sir James , then was hee not Lord of Galloway ; for Galloway did never belong to Sir James , but to his brother Archbald slain at Halydoun hill , who 〈◊〉 it by m●…rrying the heire of Galloway ( as hath been said ) and gave it to his second sonne this Archbald . Thus much I thought good to advertise the Reader in this place , for the better distinguishing of them . Of William Lord of Niddisdale ( sonne naturall to this foresaid Archbald Lord of Galloway ) commonly called The black DOUGLAS . THis William Lord of Niddisdale ( sonne naturall to Archbald Lord of Galloway ) is ( if any else ) worthy , who should be 〈◊〉 of by himselfe being highly commended by Writers , who say that he was the prime and principall of the youth of Scotland , that he was a man accomplished with all abilities of body and minde , straight and tall of stature , not overcharged with flesh , but big of bone , a mighty personage , valiant , courteous , amiable , merrie , faithfull and pleasant in company and converse , of such extraordinary strength , that whomsoever he strooke with Sword or Mace , he fell to the ground , were he never so well armed : he was also wise and sober . At one time having but 800. in his company , he fought against 3000. English , of which he slew 200. and tooke 500. prisoners . This is he that is commonly called The blacke Douglas , because he was of a blacke and swart complexion . His first vassallage of note was at the inroad made by Robert Earle of Fise , and James Earl Douglas , when they burnt Cumberland , Westmoreland , and Northumberland . In this expedition he is said to have gained great reputation , for ( beside many other exploits not expressed ) he with other two only made great havocke of the enemies at the burning of the Suburbs of Carlile ( who offered to hinder him from passing t●…e bridge ) by slaying some , and turning over others into the river . Some say that he slew with his owne hands three of the most valiant of the English , of which one was a chiefe Commander : afterwards , when the same Towne was besieged , the enemies having made a sally , whilest he repulsed them , and followed too eagerly , he was engaged too farre in the midst of his enemies , and taken prisoner . As he was led along toward the Towne by foure men ( having beene before disarmed , and his weapons taken from him , he strooke two of them to the ground with his fists , and the other two betaking themselves to flight , he returned safe to his company . Hereupon his name was terrible to the English , especially the common sort , who did ordinarily affright and skare their children , when they would not be quiet , by saying , The blacke Douglas comes , the blacke Douglas will get thee . These his vertues moved Robert the second to favour him so farre , as to bestow his daughter on him , though he knew him to be a bastard . The Ladies name was Giles ( or Egidia ) and she was a mirrour of rare and singular beautie , so that whithersoever she went , she drew the eyes of all men towards her with admiration . The chiefe noble youths of the land did sute her in marriage , but the King preferred our William of Niddisdale for his worth before them all . 〈◊〉 writeth that the King of France having heard of the ●…ame of her beautie , sent a painter into Scotland privately , who having drawne her portraiture truly , and shewed it to the King , he was so enamoured thereof , that incontinent he dispatched Embassadours to desire her in marriage ; but all too late , for she was married ( before their coming ) to Niddisdale . The King gave him and his heires to be begotten by him with his daughter , the Lordship of Niddisdale , lying nearest unto Galloway , with the Office of Warden of that Border , and Sheriffeship of Dumfrees , with the Office of Justice , and Chamberlaine , with a pension of three hundred pound sterling by yeare out of the great Customes of certaine Burrowes designed to that effect . He had by this Lady a daughter , who was married to Henry Sinclaire Earle of Orkney , who bare to him a sonne called William , afterward Earle of Orkney . This daughter of his ( married to Orkney ) was named Giles ( after her mother ) as appeareth by a note that is extant of the descent of the Sinclairs . Her husband is called Henry Sinclaire , and his titles are , Knight of the Cockle , of the Garter , and Prince of Orkney . This note calleth William Douglas , Lord of Niddisdale , Prince of Danskine , Duke of Spruce . Sir William Sinclaire , sonne to Henry and Giles , is called Knight of the Golden Fleece , and of the Cockle , Prince of Orkney , Duke of Holdenburgh , Earle of Cathnes , Lord Sinclaire , Lord of Niddisdale , with the valleyes of Neth , Sheriffe of Dumfrees , Great Admirall of Scotland , Warden of the Marches , Great Justice Generall , Baron of Erkfoord , Caverton , Cowsland , Rosseline , Pentland , Harbarshire , Disart , Newbrough in Buchan ; Titles to wearie a Spaniard : which I have s●…t downe to recreate the Reader , either by seeing his greatnesse , or to laugh at the vanitie of the Writer : and yet he hath forgotten one of his titles , which is , Chancellour of Scotland , as Buchanan calls him , and a confirmation given him by King James the second in the yeare 1456. April 29. wherein he calls him his Chancellour and Cousin . This confirmation is of the Earledome of Cathnes united into one Baronie , and his lands of Orkney in compensation of his claime and title to the Lordship of Niddisdale , Offices and Pensions whatsoever that were given to William Douglas ( his Grandfather by his Mother ) by contract of marriage with Giles Stuart ( daughter to K. Robert by his wife Elizabeth Moore ) as is at length therein contained . About the time of the field at Otterburne , because some Irishmen that adhered to England had roaved upon the coasts of Galloway , and carried away store of booty and spoile , the Lord of Niddisdale to be revenged thereof , gathered together a competent number of men , by the aid of his brother-in-law Robert Earle of Fife , and by licence from the King providing himselfe of Ships and vessels , passed the seas into Ireland , and besieged Carlinfoord , a rich Towne in those parts . The Townesmen fearing their Towne should be taken by assault , obtained a truce for certaine dayes , promising to give him a summe of money to have their Towne saved . But in the meane time they assembled some 500. men through the help of a neighbour Towne called Dundalke , and joyning with them , they divided themselves into two squadrons or companies : the one of which invaded Robert Stuart of Disdier , who conducted the Earle of Fifes men , and was gone abroad to bring in some prey : the other assailed the Lord of Niddisdale , who lay still before the Towne . Notwithstanding of this unexpected sally , they were received with such courage and valour , that at last they were put to flight ; and immediately Niddisdale gave an hard assault to the Towne , and carried it : having taken and rifled it sufficiently , he set it on fire , and burnt it to ashes . Others write , that at his first landing the Citizens hearing it was the Lord Niddisdale ( whose name was so fearfully spread over all those quarters ) not only rendred the Town to him , but also received him with great triumph , as if he had been their King or Prince ; and that hereupon he used them courteously . But when his men were in great security , scattered and separated , as fearing no hurt or danger , and some at their Ships , some sent with Robert Stuart of Disdier to spoile the Countrey about , which stood out against him , and to furnish his ships and the towne ; so that there remained not with the Lord Niddisdale above 200. men when they set upon him , as before we have said ; and being beaten , the Towne was sackt and burnt . Then they tooke 60. ships , which they found in divers Havens and Creeks , and laded 15. of them with such spoile as they had gotten , and burnt the rest . Then returning homeward , they spoiled the Isle of Man , which lay in their way . He landed at Loch-rien , which divides a part of Galloway from Carrict , and hearing there of the roade into England , he hasted him hither with all diligence . But truce being made for certaine yeares with England , that he might not languish in idlenesse , he passed into Spruce , from whence he heard that an Army was to be sent against the Infidels . There hee gave such proofe of his vertue and valour , that hee was chosen Admirall of the whole Fleet , which was very faire and great , esteemed to consist of 250. saile , and was there created Duke of Spruce , and Prince of Danskin . But there arose dissention betwixt him and the Lord Clifford an Englishman , upon an old emulation , and present envie of his new preferment , at which Clifford grudged . Wherefore being challenged to the field by Clifford , he accepted it gladly : but the other weighing with himselfe what a hazzard he was like to runne by fighting with such a man of such incomparable valour , found meanes ( before the day of the combat came ) to make him away by hired Assasines and Brigands , who murthered him in the night on the bridge of Danskin . The Manuscript seemeth to say that combat was not taken on there and then , but long before , while they were both at home ; and that Niddisdale before the day passing to Paris to provide armour fit for him ( or on whatsoever occasion else ) Clifford gave it out that he had fled the combat ; but when he saw that he was returned before the day appointed , fearing to match with his well knowne strength and valour , would have shifted the fight with many frivolous excuses . Now there being assembled and met together at that time brave Knights from all the parts of Christendome , Clifford partly for envie of the honour conferred upon his adversary , and partly remembring their old debates , but chiefly because of this disgrace and infamie , of being put to this necessitie of refusing to fight with him , hee caused mercenarie cut-throats to lie in wait for him , who as he happened to walke through the streets , and view the walls of the Towne , set upon him , and murdered him , not without great difficultie : by which losse that enterprise against the Infidels was disturbed and dashed . We told before how he is stiled Prince of Danskin , and Duke of Spruce , in the Monuments of the Sinclairs , of whom one had married his daughter : sure it is , by the report of many eye-witnesses , that there was a gate in Dansick on which the Coat of the Douglasses was carved and graven in stone , which decaying , and being of late re-edified , this monument of him is perished . The common opinion is , that Dansick having beene taken by Infidels , was regained by Scottishmen , and therefore it is that the Scots have such priviledges there : and there is a part of the Town which they call little Scotland , which is inhabited almost with Scottishmen . All which must be referred ( most apparently ) to the Lord Niddisdale , and to this time , and doth testifie in some measure he hath surpassed the quality and condition of a private man , or of a stranger in those parts , seeing he acquired the title of Prince and D●…ke , whereof we can affirme no more then hath beene said . This fell out about the yeare 1389. or 1390. about the death of King Robert the second . Of Archbald the second , called The Grimme , the third Earle , and twelfth Lord of Douglas and Bothwell . UNto James ( 〈◊〉 at Otter●…urn ) succeeded his brother Archbald , whom 〈◊〉 wrongfully calleth his Cousin . Hee was married to the daughter of Andrew Murray , sisters sonne to K. David Bruce , and Governour of Scotland : by her he got the Lordship of Bothwell , and many other lands ; and she bare to him two sonnes , first William , who died a yeare before his father without children ; and 〈◊〉 , who succeeded to his father : also a daughter named Marjorie , married to David Prince of Scotland . Concerning this Archbald the Grim , we finde not many particular acts of his recorded , besides those which he did in his fathers time , and in his brothers ( of which we have already spoken ) although certainly hee cannot but have done divers worthy of memorie , seeing he hath the name and reputation of a most worthy Captaine , being so sterne and austere in carriage and countenance , that hee was termed , The Grimme Douglas , and by our Writers , Archbald the Grimme . Now that we may the better understand the reasons of the Douglasses proceedings and actions , let us ( as our manner is ) take a generall view of the estate of the Countrey at this time . His succession to the Earledome by the death of his brother was ( as we have said ) not long before the death of King Robert the second , who died in the Castle of Dundonald in the yeare 1390. April 19. Before his death there was a Truce taken betweene England and France for the space of seven yeares , wherein Scotland was also comprehended . By reason of this Truce partly , and partly for that his sonne John , who was afterward called Robert the third , was lame both of body and minde , and so no wayes fit for warre , there is no mention of any exploit done by this man : onely it is said of him , that when King Robert the third , in the year 1396. and the seventh of his reign , created divers Dukes , and would have made this Archbald one , he refused it as a noveltie and an empty title , not worthy of the accepting , seeing it was neither bestowed for merit , nor service done , nor had any reall advantage in it , save an airy show of appearing honour to please the humour of ambitious minds , of which he was none . The next yeare following , Richard the second of England , was deposed , and the Duke of Lancaster was made King in his roome , who was Henry the fourth : In the beginning of Henries reigne , the seeds of warre were sowen upon this occasion . George Dumbarre , Earle of March had betrothed his daughter Elizabeth to David the Kings eldest sonne , and had payed a great part of their portion before hand : But the Earle Douglas , alledging that the Kings private contracting of his sonne without the consent of the State , was not according to the custome of the Kingdome , nor right and orderly done , caused the matter to be propounded by his Majestie to the Parliament , as former Kings had done , and as reason required , seeing the whole Kingdome hath interest in the matching of their Princes , and Kings children . There he handled the busines so , that the contract with Marches daughter was declared void and null , and his owne daughter Marjorie Douglas , was contracted to the said Prince David by consent of the Parliament ; having offered a greater portion with her , then the Earle March had done with his daughter . He obtained for her joynture , all the rents and revenewes which belonged to the King on the south side of Forth . The way he tooke to bring this to passe , was by the means of the Kings brother Robert Earle of Fife , now made Duke of Albany , and Governour of the Countrey under the King , as he had been in their fathers time ; who did also then even govern both King and Kingdome , and every thing as he listed : and Douglas and he were inward , and deare friends , as his brother James ( slain at Otterburn ) and he had ever been : now whether the Earle Douglas had that respect indeed to have matters of such importance to the Kingdome done by common advice of the Nobility chiefly , or if his chiefend were his owne particular , because of the old emulation betwixt the Earles of March and Douglas , to hinder the growth of that house by this great advantage of aliance , or if hee had an eye to both , or to any thing else , I leave it to be judged of others . The marriage was solemnized in the Church of Bothwel the yeare 1400. with greater haste then good speed , or any comfort to either party that we heare of . For neither came this David ever to bee King , which was the thing that was expected , that thereby the house of Douglas might have been greatned : Neither did this aliance of Prince David with the Earle of Douglas , stand him in any stead : in that hee was most miserably handled by his Uncle the Governour , who aspired himself to the Crowne , which makes me to wonder why hee did not rather hinder this marriage of his Nephew with the Earle Douglas , then thus further it ; seeing in all likely hood it might have been a great let and strong hinderance to those his ambitious designes : But so are the secrets of things hid from us , that wee cannot finde out the causes and reasons of them by no means , being not observed , or not mentioned by the Writers of those times ; hovvever this marriage bred great contention and enmity betvveen the Earles of March and Douglas ( though neare kinsemen ) and did also disturb the peace and quietnesse of the Kingdome : for March before the marriage was solemnized , did not stick to goe to the King , and upbraid him with breach of promise , which ( he said ) was neither just , nor Princely ; craving also 〈◊〉 , and roughly the restitution of his mony which he had advanced for his daughters portion . The King having not answered him according to his mind , hee spared not to threaten that he should be avenged on that rufle and disgrace that he had put upon him and his daughter . And so retiring from Court , he fortefies his Castle of Dumbarre , and gives it in keeping to his Nephew Robert Metellan , he himselfe ( having received leave of King Henry ) went into England ; whereupon the Castle of Dumbarre was summoned in the Kings name by an Herauld of Armes , and was surrendered by the Captain thereof Robert Metellan into the hands of the Earle Douglas . The Earle of March returned into Scotland , but being excluded out of his Castle at Dumbarre , went back again into England , taking his Lady and children along with him , together with the nearest of his kinsmen , and his chief friends accompanying him . There he joyned with 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ( called hote spurre ) a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of the house of 〈◊〉 , and trusting to the favour and good will borne him by these who dwelt on the East Border or March of Scotland , most of which were his vastalls and dependers , many of them his kinsmen , and all of them 〈◊〉 to him by some relation , or obligation , he troubled the Merse chiefly and the Earle Douglas lands with frequent incursions and inroades . The King hereupon caused proclaime him rebell , and yet notwithstanding , sent to him a Herauld of Armes , with profer of pardon , and restitution , upon condition that hee would returne and live peaceablely at home ; and that he should receive all such satissaction for any wrong he could justly complain of , as he desired . But when hee 〈◊〉 to embrace this offer , the Herauld passed on to King Henrie , and complained of the Earle of March , craving that hee might bee delivered according to the Articles of the tr●…ce . But hee was answered by the King , that hee had given him his word , and could not breake it . In the mean time P●…rcie , and the Earle of March , being emboldned with divers successefull attempts upon the 〈◊〉 , adventured with 2000. men to come into Lowthian , where they wasted the Countrey near unto Hadington , assaulted the Castle of Hales twice but in vain : burnt the townes of Hales , Trapren , Markill , and other adjacent villages . And while they encamped at Linton upon Tine , hearing of the Earle Douglasses approach , who had raised sufficient forces , and was marching towards them , and was come as farre as Penkrake , they arose and fled in great haste , leaving behind them all their booty , together with their owne luggage and carriage . The manuscript and black booke of Scone say clearly that the Earle Douglas followed them so quickly , that he overtooke them or they got to Berwick , and killed divers , having wrested an ensigne out of the hands of Sir Thomas Colbouth which he brought into Scotland with him . Boetius relates it not much otherwise . Other Histories make no mention hereof , but onely say , that the Earle returned to Edinburgh with great congratulation and joy of all men . He died not long after of a burning fever the same yeare 1400 , in the beginning of February : very unseasonably for his Countrey ; which was destitute of able Commanders in warre , having lost divers others of good note not long before . He was buried in Bothwell with his La●…ie . He was a man nothing inferiour to any of his Predecessours , or Successours of his house and name , in any kind of vertue , and in speciall of true and reall kindnesse to his friends and followers , as appe●…reth by a letter of his to the Earle of March in favour of the Laird of Ridpeth , a Gentleman in Lammer moore who was his follower , and was wronged by the Earle of March in the possession of some lands : but more in Marches refusall to right him ; he assembleth his forces , and dispossesseth the Earle of Marches sonne , and reponed Ridpeth in his right , and maintained him therein ever after , which his successours doe enjoy at this day . As for his valour and conduct in warre , hee is termed the best Captain of his time , and that in his person the splendour and glory of warrefare both stood and fell . Others say that hee left behinde him an honourable memory of high Prowesse , and noble valour , shewed in many enterprises by him happily a●…chieved for the good of his Countrey . In Piety hee was singular through his whole life , and most religious according to those times . He did very much honour and reverence all religious persons ; for whose use he founded the Colledge of Bothwell . Out of his zeal and sincerity he expelled the Nuns of the Abbacie of Lincloudon , and changed it into a Colledge of Clerks , because the Nuns ( saith Boetius ) kept not their institution of their order : and Major faith it is to be presumed , that they kept not their Chastitie , otherwise he could never have thrust them out . And in this he commendeth him , as having an eye to Religion , and a speciall care of the pure and sincere worship of God , as his onely end and intention . As for his prudence and providence , it appeareth that he did greatly encrease his Revenues , and enlarge his Dominions : hee was trusty and faithfull in his promises , and carried a minde free from all ambition , and vain glory : All vertues greatly to bee accounted of , and imitated of all . Of Archbald the third of that Name and thirteenth Lord , the fourth Earle of Douglas , Lord of Bothwell , Galloway and Annandale , first Duke of Turrane , Lord of Longe-ville , and Marshall of France . UNto Archbald ( the Grimme ) succeeded his second sonne , named also Archbald ; he was married to Margaret daughter to King Robert the third , and second of the Stuarts . She lieth buried in the Church of Linclouden , with this inscription on her Tombe , Hic jacet Margarita Scotiae regis filia , Comitissa de Douglas , vallis Anandiae , & Gallovidiae Domina . Here lies Margaret daughter to the King , Countesse of Douglas , Lady of Annandale and Galloway . He had by her two sonnes , Archbald , to whom Thomas Flemine Earle of Wigton resignes the Earledome of Wigton , and he is entitled ( during his fathers life time ) Archbald Earle of Wigton : his other sonne was James , Lord Abercorne , called grosse James . Hee had al●…o two daughters , Marga●…et , married to Sir William Sinclair Earle of Orkney who was fifth in line ●…rom the Earle of Saint Clarences second sonne , that came first out of France , and was sonne to Giles ( or Egidia ) Douglas , daughter to the Earle of Niddisdale . Elizabeth was the other , who was married to John Stuart Earle of Buchan , second sonne to Robert the Governour , afterward Constable of France : her dowry or portion given with her in marriage , were the lands of Stuarton , Ormeshugh , Dunlope , Trabuyage ( in Carrict ) by resignation . This Archbald is hee who was called Tine-man , for his unfortunate and hard successe he had , in that he tint ( or lost ) almost all his men , and all the battels that hee fought . This nick-name , or cognomination in the old manuscript ( of Sir Richard Metellan of Lithington ) giveth to Archbald slain at Halidoun hill , and call●…th this , Archbald one eye , for distinction , because of the losse of his eye in a battell against Percie . But that surname of Tyne man cannot bee given so conveniently to the former Archbald , who lost onely one field , and himself in it ▪ whereas this man ever lost his men , himself escaping often : hee is distinguished also from others by the Title of Duke of Turrane : But however he be named , it is true , that no man was lesse fortunate , and it is no lesse true , that no man was more valorous , as will appeare by the History . At his beginning to bee Earle , a little after the decease of his father in August 1409. Henry the fourth of England entered Scotland with an Army , and came to Edinburgh , where he besieged the Castle , in the which the Duke of Rothsay ( Prince of Scotland ) and with him the Earle of Douglas , were . The Governour of Scotland raised an Army to have given him battell , and was come to Calder-more , but went no further , and there disbanded his Army . The English Histories say , that the Governour sent word to the King of England , that if he would stay for him but sixe dayes onely he would give him battell , and that the Herauld got a silke gowne , and a gold chain for his newes from the King ; but the King having stayed twice sixe could heare nothing of his coming . The cause of the Governours slacknesse is given out by some to have been the desire that he had that the Duke of Rothsay might perish , and be taken out of the way , that he himself might come to the Crown . Now as all do agree , that he had these ambitious thoughts , so Major sheweth that there was also some other particular between them , whereof he relateth the occasion to have been this . There was one John Remorgeny , who first laboured to perswade the Duke of Rothsay to cause slay the Governour , and then ( when he could not prevail with him to wrong his Uncle ) he dealt with the Governour to cut off the Duke his Nephew , as one that would ruine him , if ever he should come to be King. This Remorgeny was seconded by Lindsay , who was upon the plot with him , and helped it forward upon malice against Rothsay , who had betrot●…ed his sister , an●… rejected her , as he had done to the Earle of Marches eldest daughter . This seemeth not to be unlikely , and giveth some further light to the History , as containing the cause of the Governours not releeving the Castle of Edinburgh . It is also a remarkable example of crafty Counsellours , who are to be noted and avoided . And I marvell much how it hath escaped the diligence of our best Writers . I thought it not to be omitted in this place , as an instance of feare concurring with ambition in the Governour : and indeed these two are commonly joyned together , and take matter each of other . Ambition bringeth feare with it , and feare spurreth forward ambition toward that it aimes at ; as being not onely honourable , but necessary , and the onely meane to secure a mans selfe : especially where it lighteth upon such Counsellours , as these were , to blow the fire , whereof Princes had need to be aware , and stop the entrie to the first motions thereof . The blacke booke of Scone saith that Henry the fourth acknowledged himselfe to be ( semi Scotus de sanguine Cumini ) halfe a Scot of the bloud of the Cummins , and that he tooke the most High to witnesse , that he was not come to hurt the Countrey , but onely to have reason of some of the Nobilitie , who had written to the King of France that he was a Traitour in the superlative degree ( which letters his men had intercepted ) and to trie if the Authours of these letters durst fight it with him . The Manuscript saith that he was disappointed of his purpose notwithstanding : for he thought to have taken the Castle of Edinburgh , and to have made Scotland subject to him thereafter ; but it being valiantly defended by the Earle Douglas , he was constrained to rise from before it with great losse and discontentment , and no great credit ; especially for that the winter drew on apace , having sat downe before it about the end of September . I am not ignorant that our Writers give this Henry the commendation of great modestie in this journey , as being mindfull of the courtesie showne to his father the Duke of Lancaster in Scotland , and that they say that he used the prisoners not cruelly but courteously , and that when he passed by the Castles and Forts of the Countrey , he did onely require of the Captaines and Keepers of them , that his Ensignes might be set on the top of the wall , as a token of their submission , and that they were in his will : but seeing their owne Authors deny him this honour , and say that he burnt the Towns , Villages , and Castles , even a great part of Edinburgh and Leith , we have small reason to contend with them for it ; and so we accept of it , and follow the Scottish Manuscript . Upon Henries departure , because the Earle of March troubled the Countrey with frequent rather then with great incursions , the Earle Douglas ( who had the government of Lowthian , and the Castle of Dumbar ) went with an Army into Northumberland , and wasted the Countrey with great havock . At his returne he gave order that the Barons and Ge●…tlemen should choose some of their number to be Captaines , and allot unto them a competent number to follow them , who might by turnes wait and be in readinesse , either to resist the enemie , or to make an inroad upon him in his owne Countrey , as they should find occasion . The first turne fell to Thomas Haliburton Lord of Dirleton , who having entred England , and gotten a great bootie neere unto Bambrugh , returned home safe . But Patrick Hepburne of Hailes ( the younger ) had not the like successe : for he going upon the like adventure , had indeed taken a rich bootie , but having stayed a day longer then he should ( and had beene advised by his friends ) in the enemies bounds , they gathered themselves together , and following him , overtooke him at West Nisbet in the Merse . There , after a sharp encounter , the Scots had gotten the better of the English , and well nigh the victorie , till George Dumbarre , the Earle of Marches eldest sonne , coming in with an hundred fresh horse , regained the victorie to the English , and slew the flowre of the youth of Lowthian , together with their Captaine Patrick Hepburne . The fight happened the 22. of June 1401. the place whereof is yet called , The Slaughter Hill. This Patricke Hepburne was entirely beloved of the Earle Douglas , and as deare to him as his owne selfe : for he it was that fought so valiantly at Otterburne , and therefore he was filled with griefe and indignation for his death , being so brave a Captain , and so deare a friend to his house , and to himselfe . His honour also , and the credit of his Countrey stirred him up also to seeke a revenge of the Authors thereof . Whereupon having obtained leave of the Governour , he gathered together about some 10000. men , amongst whom were many of the chiefe Nobility of the land , even the Governours eldest sonne Murdock ( who succeeded to his father in the Government ) George Earle of Angus ( his owne Uncle ) Thomas Earle of Murray , and John Dumbarre brother to the Earle of March , one that had married the Kings sister . With this company he entered England as farre as Newcastle upon Tine , and having gotten a great bootie , was retiring homeward . In his returning , neare unto Milfield , Henry Hotspurre and George Earle of March lay in his way with a farre greater power then he had . Wherefore the Earle Douglas tooke a ground of advantage , which was a little hill besides Homildon , a Village in Northumberland . Percie would have marched straight towards him to have assailed him , but the Earle of March ( being very skilfull in warre , and more calme and advised ) stayed him , and gave him counsell first to send a flight of arrowes amongst them , and to give them a volee of their fielding pieces , which was done accordingly , and did greatly annoy the Scots , and slew many of them . Douglas perceiving that he could not brooke that place with safety , thought it better to hazzard the battell in plaine field , then to stand still and see his men slaine about him by the enemies shot , while they stood safe , and came not within stroake of their swords , and long weapons . And so ( though farre inferiour in number ) downe the hill he goes , and gave a fierce assault upon the enemie . But the Vauntguard being brangled , and giving backe ( being much troubled and sore wounded by the Archers ) though they were sharply rebooked by Adam Lord Gordon , and Sir John Swinton , and brought on againe , yet were they not able to sustaine and abide the shot of the enemie , but were defeated every man. The rest that were behind , being exhorted by their Captaines to revenge the death of their fellowes slaine before their eyes , did acquit themselves bravely , but being overwhelmed with the greater number , were also overthrowne at last . There were many slaine , amongst whom were the forenamed Adam Lord Gordon ( who had beene at variance with the Earle Douglas , but in this expedition hee had been reconciled to him , and Knighted by him ) and Sir John Swinston , two that gained greater reputation of valour and courage that day , and fought so valorously , that if the rest had followed their example , that field had not been so lost . There were also divers others of note ; such as John Livinston of Calender , Alexander Ramsay of Dalhousie , with a number of common souldiers . Many were taken of quality , Murdock the Governours son , George Earle of Angus , Thomas Earle of Murray , Robert Ereskine of Alloway , James Douglas eldest son to the Lord Dalkeith , and his two brothers , John and William ; George Lesly of Rothes , Patrick Dumbar of Beell . In the black Booke of Scone is set downe the death of the foresaid George Earle of Angus , how hee died in England of the plague being a prisoner ( with many others ) and Alexander Hume of Dunglas also , as the same Booke doth witnesse . The Earle Douglas himselfe was taken also , having lost one eye in the fight . This battell was fought on the Holy Rood-day in Harvest , or ( as others ) the 5. of May 1401. or 1402. rather as appeareth by the former History . Whilest the Earle Douglas was prisoner in England , the Duke of Rothsay became so riotous , and insolently unruly , that his father not being able to governe him by his owne authority , did commit him to his brother , the Governours tuition , to be corrected and tamed by him . Hee made use of this occasion for compassing his owne ambitious ends , or to be rid of the feare hee had of him ; shut him up in Falkland , and starved him to death . The blacke Booke of Scone saith , that the Earle Douglas was with the Governour , when hee brought the Duke from Saint Andrewes to Falkland . But it should rather seem that he hath been a prisoner in England , when the Duke was thus used : for if hee ●…ad been at home , in all likelihood he would have reclamed the Duke ( being his brother in law ) and have brought him out of his wild courses ; or by his credit with the Governour would have saved him , and prevented such extremity , unlesse he had proceeded so farre as to cast off the Earles sister , whereof we heare nothing . And even in that case , seeing there is alwayes some hope of reconcilement between man and wife , and therefore such fallings out are often born with , in Princes upon that hope ; it is likely he would have used his care and credit to have composed things in some better sort : however , whether through his absence or negligence , or that having small hope of amendment , he would not meddle in it : the Duke persists in his lewd wayes , and growes rather worse then better . Wee reade of no help or assistance that the Douglas made unto him , as hee was bound by so neare alliance . Neither do we heare how he carried himself toward the Earles sister his wife ; or whether shee had any children by him or not , though they had been married at that time some foure or five yeares , and hee was a man of twenty three or twenty foure years of age at the least , having been eighteen when hee was enstalled Duke in the 1396. yeare , which is a great neglect and oversight in our Writers . This is clear that neither party had any contentment , or comfortable succes from this match which they so much affected & brought to passe with so great trouble , disquiet , and mischiefe in the Kingdome ●…a notable lesson for men to moderate their desires of any thing , and not to seeke it over eagerly ( though it seem never so advantagious ) in respect of the uncertainty of the sequell and event of all humane things . But to returne to our prisoner : wee see him hurt , defeated , a captive , but neither disgraced , nor discouraged ; no nor any whit lesse esteemed of by his friends , or enemies : who indeed needed not to bee over proud of this victory , which was obtained rather by the multitude of men , then meer valour , neither were they yet quit with the house of Douglas , for what they had received of them before : however these vicissitudes of fortune in the emulation of these two houses ( Douglas and Percie ) were matter rather of sharpning then discouraging , and dejecting their spirits , and b●…ed not hatred , but an higher ( though emulous ) esteem of each towards other . This overthrow and losse of the Earle Douglas did not diminish , but rather increase his praise and glory , and that even in the opinion of the Conqueror . It became also the occasion of shewing his worth in a more conspicuous and publike Theatre , and on a more eminent subject , and powerfull enemy : for not long after , the Earle of Northumberland ( whether for envie of King Henries good successe , to whom he had been a great friend in the beginning ; or for that Henry usurped the Kingdome contrary to his oath and promise ; or for his neglecting to relieve Edmond Mortimer Earle of March , taken prisoner in his service against Owen Glendour by the said Owen , or out of indignation against him for craving to have his prisoners from him , which hee had taken at West Nisbet , and at Homildon , of whom onely they had sent Murdock Stuart to the King ; or for what ever other cause ) the said Earle entered into league with Edmond , Owen , and some other Lords , against the King , with such confidence , that they made a tripartite Indenture , wherein they divided all England into three parts , to each of them a third : whereupon Percie , esteeming highly of the Douglas valour , having had good proofe thereof at Homildon , offered if hee would take part with him in this enterprise , and shew himself as valiant on his side , as hee had done against him , that he should not onely be let goe without ransome , but also ( if they prevailed ) he should have Berwick , and a part of Northumberland for his reward . Douglas , who was no wayes slack to embrace any good occasion against England , gladly accepted the condition , and getting leave to come home , returned again at the time appointed , well accompanied with many of his friends and followers . The leading of the vantguard was committed to him , which place he discharged bravely , and behaved himself so , as no man ever did more valiantly and admirably by all mens confession : for after the Scots ( who were led by him ) had made a fierce onset upon the Kings foreward ( conducted by the Earle of Stafford ) and forced them to give back , having almost broken their ranks , the King came to their aid with his fresh troupes , and renewed the fight more fiercely then before . Douglas and Percie , perceiving the King to be there in person , bent their whole forces towards him with such violence , that if George Dumbarre , Earle of March ( who had of late betaken himself to the Kings side ) had not warned the K. to withdraw himself from that place , Douglas had certainly slain him , for hee made so hard an onset on the Kings Standard , that he bore all down before him , and slew the Earle of Stafford with his owne hands , who had been made Constable of England that same day : as also three more , who were apparelled like the King : and when the K. restored the battell again , and had broken the rankes of those that stood against him , Douglas seeing him the fourth man in royall apparell , hee said aloud in great choler and indignation , where the Devil were all these Kings borne ? and withall running fiercely at him , beat him from his horse , and at the same instant slew Sir Thomas Blunt , the Kings Standard-bearer , and overthrew the Standard . But the K. was rescued , and mounted again by those that were about him , especially by his owne sonne ( afterward Henrie the fifth ) and so escaped . At last the victory fell to the Kings side , who had behaved himself most valorously , and is reckoned to have slain with his owne hands thirty six of the enemies . So that the victory is ascribed chiefly unto him , who did both by word and example encourage his Souldiers , that they renewed the fight , slew the Lord Percie , and with him discomfited the whole Hoast . The Earle Douglas was taken prisoner , and brought to the King , who would on no wise consent to have him put to death ( though divers perswaded him to it ) but commended his faithfulnesse to his friend , and praised his valour , which he honoured much ; in regard whereof he both caused cure his wounds , and sent him rich presents . Some write that being asked by those of the Kings side , why hee did joyne with such traitours against the King , his reply was onely this ; It seemeth ( saith hee ) that the King is yet alive , though divers Kings have been killed to day . This answer being so full of resolution , and courage , and void of all fear , did move the King to regard him so much the more . They tell also that being hurt in his privie members , when after the battell every man was reckoning his wounds , and complaining ; hee said at last when hee had hard them all , They sit full still that have a riven breike . The speach continueth still in Scotland , and is past into a Proverb which is used , to designe such as have some hidde and secret cause to complaine , and say but little . Hollinshed writeth , that in respect of his Noble parentage , and valour , he was tenderly cherished by King Henry , and frankly and freely demit●…ed without ransome : and such indeed is the custome of generous minds to honour vertue even in the enemy . It is generally agreed upon by all , that he was highly honoured and esteemed , so that the King ( or some of his Nobles ) caused draw his picture , which is still to be seen in the privie Gallery at White Hall. But touching his delivery , some say that when he had stayed in England certain moneths , he was with difficulty set at liberty after he had payed a great summe of money . Others write , that he was detained eight or nine yeares at least , but that seems to be too much for this battell ( called Shrewesbury field ) was in the yeare 1403. in the fourth yeare of King Henry , on Saint Magdalins day , and Douglas was set free at the death ( or not long after ) of K. Robert the third of Scotland , in the yeare 1406. When the Earle hard word of his death , he made shift to agree for his ransome , and so returned with all speed into Scotland . It is said , that George Earle of March did him very good Offices in England , and was a chief mean and instrument of his delivery , being reconciled to him during his imprisonment : wherefore the ●…arle Douglas at his 〈◊〉 procured liberty for the Earle of March to come home into Scotland , and to be received a free Liege again ; but upon condition that he should suffer the Castles of Lochmaban and Dumbarre to remaine with the Earle Douglas and his heires , notwithstanding of any agreement made between them to the contrary in England . And so in the yeare 1411 he was restored by the Governour , a●…ter hee had remained fifteen yeares in England , or thereby , having done great hurt to his Countrey , and much good service to the Kings of England ; but for all the service hee did , hee could neither move the King to restore him , and repossesse him again in his owne , neither obtain competent means and allowance for his estate and quality . A notable example for Subjects , to learne hereby not to forsake their naturall King , and native Countrey in hope to be supported or ayded by forrain Princes : farre lesse thus to hurt and endammage their owne Countrey , for the pleasure and advantage of strangers . The black book of Scone ascribeth the restitution of the Earle of March to Walter Halyburton sonne in law to the Governour ( Gener Gubernatoris ) by marrying his daughter Isabell ( a widdow , and Countesse of Rosse ) for which he got from March a fourty pound land in Birgeam ; and that the Earle Douglas got back Lochmaban , and the Lordship of Annandale : however it bee , a yeare or two after the Earle Douglas was returned , the Earle March was restored , whereunto Hollinshed al●…o seemeth to agree : for in another place after the death of King Robert ( which hee setteth in the yeare 1408. ) forgetting what hee had said before ( that the King dimitted Douglas frankly and freely ) hee writeth thus . Archbald Earle of Douglas , as yet remaining captive in England , after hee had knowledge of King Roberts death ( to wit , five yeare after this at least by his owne account ) made shift to agree ●…or his ransome , and so being set at liberty , returned with all speed now at length into Stotland . Wherein he contradicts himself , and casteth downe all that liberality , and mag●…nimity of his King ( in dismissing the Douglas freely ) and with so much the more blemish , as in saying it was done , he acknowledged it should have been done , as it had indeed been most honourable and Princely , and might ( perhaps ) have gained the heart of that worthy Nobleman . But we find but ●…ew actions in that kind of full beneficence practised towards the Scots : and it seems that his great worth hath extorted their admiration , and some Offices of courtesie , & common humanity , such as were the preservation of his life , and curing of his wounds ; but the old grudge of Nationall quarrell remaining still in vigour , did choake the fruit of true Princely dealing , and kept ●…t that it came not to that full maturitie of beneficence , which the party deserved , and was suteable fot such a King. Wherefore let him content himself with this honour , that his valour was acknowledged abundantly , and himself by the confession of King Henries owne Heraulds , accounted one of t●…e chief Chivaliers and Champions in Albion : and let him thanke his own prowesse more then their kindnesse for this testimony . Wee will also adde a witnesse of these in our times , on●… of their owne Poets ( Samuell Daniell ) who speaking of King Henries son , who releeved his father in the battell of Shrewesbury from the Earle Douglas , he writeth thus : Lib. 3. Stanza 113. Hadst thou not here lent present speedie aid To thy endangered father neerely tired , From fierce encountring Douglas overlaid , That day had there his troubled life expired . Heroicall couragious Blunt arrayed In habit like as was the King attired , And deem'd for him , excus'd the fault of his , For he had what his Lord did hardly misse . Taking Blunt for one of those that were apparelled like the King , whereas others account him to have been the Kings Standard-bearer . But in the warres between York and Lancaster , it is more amply set downe in this sort : Lib. 4. Stanza 49. Yet here had he not speedy succour lent To his endangered Father , neare opprest , That day had seen the full accomplishment Of all his travels , and his finall rest : For Mars-like Douglas all his forces bent T' encounter and to graple with the best ; As if disdaining any other thing To doe that day , but to subdue a King. Stanza 50. And there with fiery courage he assailes Three all as Kings adorn'd in Royall wise , And each successive after other quails ; Stil wondring whence so many Kings should rise , And doubting least his hands or eye sight fails , With these confounded on the fourth he flies , And him unhorses too , whom had he sped He then all Kings in him had vanquished . Stanza 51. For Henry had divided as it were The person of himself into foure parts , To be lesse knowne , and yet known every where , The more to animate his peoples hearts ; Who cheared by his presence , would not spare To execute their best and worthiest parts : By which two speciall things effected are , His safetie and his Subjects better care . And in the 54. Stanza , speaking of Hotspurre , But he as Douglas with his fury led Rushing into the thickest woods of speares , And brooks of swords , still laying at the head . Then a little after in the 56. upon the killing of Hotspurre Which thus mispent , thy Army presently As if it could not stand , when thou wert down , Disperst in rout , betakes them all to flee : And Douglas faint with wounds , and overthrowne , Was taken ; Who yet wanne the enemy Which tooke him , by his noble vertue showne In that dayes mighty worke , and was preserved , With all the grace and honour he deserved . And that was all to be preserved and respected , but not easily nor soon dismissed : for ( besides what hath been said of this point ) there is an Indenture yet extant , which contains the agreement betwixt King Henry , and him . That whereas the said Earle was lawfull prisoner to him , or to his sonne , John of Lancaster , he should have free libertie to returne to his own Countrey of Scotland , upon his giving of twelve Noble Hostages for his reentry into the Castle of Durham , being then in the custody of the said John of Lancaster . The Hostages were , 1. Archbald Douglas , his owne eldest son and heire : 2. James his brother : 3. James son and heire to James Lord Dalkeith : 4. Sir John Mongomery , Lord of Adderson : 5. Sir John Seiton , sonne and heire to the Lord Seiton : 6. Sir William Douglas , of Drumlainrig : 7. Sir William Sinclair of Hermiston : 8. Sir Simon 〈◊〉 sonne and heire to Sir Adam of Glendining : 9. Sir John Harris , Lord of Terregles : 10. Sir Harbert Maxwell : 11. Sir William Hay : 12. Sir William Borthwick . The Condition beares that upon the Earles reentry of his person into the wards of the said John of Lancaster , the said Hostages were to bee set free to repair with safe conduct into their own Countreyes , and that within fourty dayes after the Earles re-entry , or after his death . And that the Prince Thomas , and his said brother John , and the Earle of Westmoorland should be obliged by expresse commandment from the King to secure the said Hostages , during the time of their abode , and residence in England . And if the Earle should fail of his re-entry again , that the said Hostages should be at the Kings disposing . And in case the said Earle should die , his eldest sonne and heire was to abide prisoner with the King in his sons keeping , and the rest of the Hostages were to be set free immediately . And further it was conditioned , that the Earle should do his uttermost to keep the truce that had been reated of between the King , his Counsell , and the said Earle : and that he should cause it to be ratified and confirmed by both the Realms of Scotland and England , for sixteen yeares : and in c●…se he could not obtain that , that then the said Earle for himself , and his Countreyes betweene the East and West seas , inhabited by any of his men and vassals , should keepe truce with England from Pasch next , till Pasch thereafter . These conditions were drawn up by the Kings Councell in forme of an Indenture , whereof each had a counterpane , signed , sealed , and delivered reciprocally by the said parties at London the fourteenth of March 1407. During the time of his captivity in England , the Duke of Rothsay was famished to death by his Uncle the Governour , who being accused thereof by the King his brother , made such a slender purgation , that the King fearing he would doe the like to his other sonne James , sent him by sea to France , where he might remain in safety while he were come to years . But being driven in by storme of weather into the coasts of England , he was detained as a prisoner by the King and State. Hereupon followed the death of the desolate father , and the continuance of the Governour in his Office. And now Douglas being come home ( in the yeare 1411. ) hee kept good correspondencie with the Earle of March ever after , for there had alwayes beene friendship betwixt the two Houses ( of March and Douglas ) untill the match with the Duke of Rothsay did separate them ; and now that being away and digested , and March having furthered Douglasses delivery out of captivitie , and Douglas procured , or helped to procure Marches peace and restitution , they joyned ever thereafter in all common affaires . Some write that those two did burne the towne of Roxbrough , but it seems to bee mistaken ; for that was done ere they came home , by William Douglas of Drumlanrig , and Gawin third sonne to the Earle of March. After their return , there is no mention of any exploit of warre between Scotland and England for the space of tenne yeares : whether it were that there hath been any truce , or that Henry the fourth dying , his sonne Henry the fifth was so taken up with the warre with France , that he had no leasure to looke toward Scotland ; or that the Governour durst not attempt any thing against him , for feare hee should send home the rightfull heire to the Crowne of Scotland , whom he had in his power and custody , and who ( he doubted not ) would finde favour enough in Scotland , both for his right , and out of commiseration of his estate , and condition . So there was nothing done , except some slight and private inrodes , such as when the Earle Douglas burnt Penmoore a towne in England at which the Earle March is also said to have been in the yeare , 1414. In the yeare 1420. The Governour died , and his sonne Murdock was made Governour in his place , having been relieved a little before by enterchange of a sonne of the Earle of Northumberland . He was a man of a dull and heavy spirit , and of no authority , not so much as to governe his owne family , which made him to be little regarded : about this time the civil warre in France grew hot between , Charles the sixth King of France , Philip Duke of Burgundie and Henry the fifth of England on the one part , and the Daulphin of France on the other , for Philip of Burgundie had perswaded the King of France to dis-inherrit his sonne the Daulphin , and to give the Crowne with his daughter to Henrie of England . So that the Daulphin , ( afterwards King Charles the seaventh ) was redacted to that extremity , that his enemies called him in derision , King of Bourg , because his residence for the most part , was in Bourg in Berrie . Wherefore he being thus abandoned by his own Countrey men , and destitute of all forraign help , sent ( this yeare ) the Earle of Vandosme Ambassadour into Scotland to crave aid according to the ancient League , and made great promises to all the Scots that would assist him in this quarrell . It was willingly granted by the whole State , and seaven thousand men agreed upon , as a competent number for that service , which was soone made up of Volunteers : the youth of Scotland being now greatly multiplied by long peace with England . Their Generalls were John Earle of Buchan , and Archbald Earle of Wigton the one sonne , the other sonne in law to Archbald Earle of Douglas . Whilest they were busied in France , the Earle Douglas was not idle at home , for the black booke of Scone beareth that hee went with an army to besiege the Castle of Roxbrough , and with the Governour Murdock , against Berwick , but they returned both without effecting any thing , by reason of the treachery of some Scots ; wherefore this was named the foule roade . We reade of Douglas also how hee was judge to a duell in Bothwell-haugh , between John Hardy , and Thomas Smith : this Smith had accused the other of treason , which Hardy denying , and the other not being able to prove it by witnesses , the comb●…t was appointed for triall of it , in which Smith ( the accuser ) was slain . The same booke also saith that ( in the yeare 1420. or 21. ) the Earle Douglas entered England , and 〈◊〉 the towne of Aewels . But here it will not be impertinent for us to step over to France , and see what Buchan and Wigton are doing , seeing that this imployment gave Wigton occasion to show himself there , and did afterward also draw over his father ( the Earle Douglas ) thither : and the order of time doth also leade us to speake of those things in this place . We have told before how John Stuart Earle of Buchan , who was second sonne to the former Governour , and brother to Murdock present Governour of Scotland ) and Archbald Douglas Earl of Wigton ( whose sister Buchan had married ) were chosen to conduct the forces sent into France , to aid the Daulphin against the King of England , and Duke of Burgundie . The chief Gentlemen of note and qualitie that went along with them were Robert Stuart ( another sonne of the Governour ) Alexander Lindsay ( brother to the Earle of Crawford ) and John Swinton Knights , being arrived in France , they were received of the Daulphin with great joy , and made heartily welcom ; who gave them the Towne and Castle of Chastillion in Turrain for their rendezvous and place of retreat and resort , being a fertile Countrey , and abounding in all things necessary ; as also for that it lay neare unto the enemy , for the Duke of Clarence ( King Henries brother and Lieutenant ) was about to have spoyled the Countrey of Angiers , or as ( Hollinshed ) had spoyled it already , and had retired into the towne of Beaufort in the Vallay , and was ready to assault a towne called Vielle Bauge ( old Bauge ) some two dayes before Pasche . The Scots expecting that ( as the manner then was ) he would have abstained from all feats of armes , and have given himself to the devotion of the time : or having ( as some others say ) taken and given assurance for eight dayes , which is the space of time commonly bestowed upon that solemnitie , were somewhat remisse and negligent in their discipline . The Duke of Clarence having notice hereof by a Lombard called Andrew Fregosa ( as some say ) or by some Scottish prisoner intercepted ( as the Annals of France do beare ) who discovered to him the government of their army , and the carriage of their Leaders and Captains , was very glad of so good occasion ( as hee deemed it ) to take them at unawares , and defeat them . Wherefore he rose presently from dinner , and taking with him onely the horsemen , leaving the Archers under the conduct of the bastard of Clarence , Sir Thomas Beauford , whom he had lately Knighted at Angiers , together with two Portugall Captains to assist him , he made straight toward the enemy , saying , that he and the Nobles onely , would have the honour of that day . Hee went with great confidence to have surprized the enemy , carrying a faire Coronet of Gold on his head , and very magnificently apparrelled , as if hee had beene riding in triumph . There was a Village called little Bauge , through which the Duke was to come , where a few Frenchmen of the Daulphins side lay . These being terrified with the sudden coming of the English , got up into a steeple for safety and sanctuary : there while they make a halt , and assault the steeple , the cry riseth , and the noise of their approach was carried to the rest of the Army , whe presently ran and took armes . While they were arming themselves , Buchan and Wigton sent 30. Archers to keep a certain bridge , by which it behoved the enemy to passe over a brooke which ran in the way . These went as they were commanded , and as they were going Hugh Kennedie came out of a Church where he lay with an hundred men , but unarmed , or halfe armed , by reason of the great haste , and joyned with them : while they defended and made good the bridge , and kept off the horsemen with shot of arrowes , the Duke with the principall of his company alighted from their horse , and made such an onset upon them , that they were forced to leave the bridge and passage open for the enemy . Being past the bridge while the Duke mounteth again on horseback , and the rest of his folks are passing after him , Buchan and Wigton came upon him with two hundred horse , and enter there into a sharp conflict on both sides , both parties being ( most part ) Noble men , who were desirous of glory , and had a minde to give a proof of themselves with equal courage , and hatred . The Scots were glad to have occasion to show the French what they could doe ; and to confute their whisperings , and surmises , wherein they reproached them , as fit onely to consume victuals : and the English were moved with great indignation , that they should bee thus perpetually troubled by the Scots not onely at home , but also abrode beyond the sea in a forraine countrey . And none among the English fought with a greater courage and resolution , then the Duke himselfe : but Sir John Swinton espying him ( being easily knowne by his Coronet shining with pretious stones , and his glistering armor ) ran fiercely at him with a lance , and wounded him in the face : hee being hereby in a great fury , put forward his horse to have charged the enemy , but was encountred by the Earle of Buchan , who ran him through with a speare , and so slew him ; or ( as others ) felled him downe to the ground with a steell hammer . The rest seeing him fall , some fled , and many were slain in their flight , being pursued till the night came on . This battell was fought on Pasch Eve , in the yeare 1420. or ( as our Writers and the English ) 1421 , There were slain of the English 200. Nobles and Gentlemen : The Duke of Clarence , The Earle of Tankervill , The Lord Rosse , Sir Gilbert Wimfravill ( whom they call Earle of Angus ) John Lumlay , Sir Robert the Earle of Summerset , and his brother ( whose sister James the first did marry afterward ) Suffolk and Perch , the Lord Fitzwater , Sir John Barcklay , Sir Ralph Nevil , Sir Henry Englishes , Sir William Lanton , Sir Thomas Boroughes , were taken prisoners . There were but few slain of the Scots and French , and those meane and obscure men . This is the most common report of the Duke of Clarence his death : but the booke of Pustardan saith , that he was slain by Alexander Macklellane , a Knight in the Lennox , who also having taken the Coronet from off his head , sold it to John Stuart of Darnelay , for 1000. angels . This victory being obtained , most part by the vallour of the Scots , the Daulphin in recompense hereof made Buchan Constable of France , and morgaged the Dukedome of Turraine to Wigton , the revenue whereof at that time was vallued to 10000. crowns . The reversion of this Dutchy he gave afterward to the Earle Douglas his father , who was created absolute Duke of Turrain , and Lord of Longu-vill , and established the same to his heires male , as shall be shewed hereafter . The French Writers say also that he made Wigton Marshall of France . The King of England upon the death of his brother , came into France in May , or about the beginning of June ; and carried along with him the heire of the Crown of Scotland : ( afterwards King James the first ) thereby to divert the Scots from assisting the Daulphin , or to have made the Daulphin to suspect their fidelitie ; but none of those plots succeeded as he would have had them : for neither would they acknowledge him for their King being in anothers power : neither did the Daulphin conceive any sinister opinion or jealousie of them . Wherefore the same yeare ( or the next , to wit , one thousand foure hundreth and twentie one ) the Daulphin caused besiege the Towne of Cosme upon Loire . And Henry departed from Paris to have relieved it , but by the way hee was overtaken with sicknesse , and returned to Bois-devincins : yet he sent the Duke of Bedford with a puissant Army to succour it ; and the Scots and French finding themselves too weake to resist , rose and retired to a strength , where the rest of the Army had assembled with resolution to abide the enemies comming . While as the English were preparing to fight , newes were brought them of their Kings death , which made them to alter their purpose of giving battell . The King died about the last of August , one thousand foure hundred and twenty one , and his corps was carried into England , the two and twentieth of October . Not long after Charles King of France died also , which was the occasion that Buchan , and Wigton , with many of the Gentlemen that accompanied them , returned into Scotland . But it was not long ere the Daulphin had need of them , sent his Chancellour Rene de chartres , and the Archbishop of Rheines into Scotland to recall his Constable , but the Earle of Wigton was so vehemently sick that he could not possibly travell . Wherefore the Earle Douglas his father went in person himself , and being a Noble man greatly regarded far above any other Subject in Scotland : there went with him great store of young Gentlemen , some to doe him honour , some to bee participant of his fortunes , and most to bee trained under him in discipline of warre . So besides those that went over with Buchan and Wigton , in the yeare 1420. there went at this time with the Earle Douglas 10000. more , as saith Hollinshed . They landed at Rochell , and being to come to the Daulphin , were gladly welcomed and much made of , especially the Earle Douglas , of whom he had heard much by report , that hee was both valiant and skilfull in warre : And therefore he enstalled him in the Dutchie of Turrain , which he gave to him and his heires for ever ; having onely engaged it before to his sonne ( upon reversion ) and moreover made him Marshall of France . This hath been ( in all appearance ) in the yeare 1423. at most , yet we do not finde any memorable thing done by them , or against them , untill the battell of Vernoill , ( which if we reade our Histories ) one would think it had been fought immediately upon their landing , thought it be cleare , that it was not till after the death of King Henry the fifth , and in the second yeare of his sonnes reigne in the yeare of God 1424. The occasion whereof was this : The Earle of Bedford having besieged Ivery , the Daulphin to relieve it , sendeth the Army under the Conduct of the Duke of Turrain ( whom the French call Marshall Douglas ) of the Constable Buchans the Earle of Narbon and others . They not being able to force Bedfords camp , when they were come within two miles of him , returned towards Vernoill in Perch , which belonged to the King of England , and sent word to the Garrison there , that they had discomfited the English Army , and that Bedford with a small number had saved himself by flight . The Garrisons giving credit thereto did open the gates , and received them with the whole Army into the towne , where having left a part of their Army , they came and encamped in the fields neare the towne . Bedford having gotten Ivery by composition , or surrender , followeth them , and sent word to the Duke of Turrain by a Trumpet , that he would come and dine with him : The Duke bade him come , he should be very welcome , for all was ready . Neverthelesse , when the point came to consultation , his opinion was that they should not fight at that time , because hee thought it not fit to hazzard a battell , but in case of necessitie , and that they had no necessitie to fight at that time , in respect that they had Vernoill in their hands , and other two good townes besides , whereby they might bee plentifully furnished with provision , which the English could not have , and thereby would bee constrained to retire : But the Earle of Narbon was earnest to have them fight , and said the Nobility of France should not receive such a bravade from the enemies , and if none would fight , he would do it alone ; and so getting him hastily out of the Counsell , he began to put his men in order . The Duke of Turraine tooke such indignation hereat , that hee should offer to fight without his leave , that hee determined not to ●…ave stirred at all , and it was long before hee would suffer his men to goe forth : yet at last , thinking that it would reflect upon him if he should sit still , and see them overthrown in his sight , he armed and went forth also . But then there arose some strife for the vantguard betwixt them , which made things to be so confusedly handled , that the English got the victory , slew the Duke , Buchan , Sir Alexander Lindsay , Robert Stuart , and Sir John Swinton , with above 2000. others of all sorts . Hollinshed in his Chronicles of England saith , ( but upon what warrant wee know not ) that the Earle Buchan ( Constable ) was not slain , but lost an eye onely , and was taken prisoner : he reckoneth among the slain Sir Alexander Hume , whom our Writers doe not mention , yet it is true and knowne to them of that house : that Sir Alexander Hume of Douglas went thither in the Earle Douglas company , and was slain with him : for they tell how Sir Alexander being minded to send his brother David Hume of Wedderburn , went to accompany the Earle to his Ship , and when they were parting , Douglas embracing him kindly , said to him , would I have beleeved Sir Alexander that ever you and I could have been separated from one another : To whom hee replied , surely then my Lord , I shall not part ; and so taking his brother Davids apparrell and furniture , and sent David back : he went with him to take care for his house and children in his absence , or in case of his death : which he also did with such fidelity , and industry , after the death of his brother , that he greatly increased the estate , and purchased for a younger sonne of his brothers , called Thomas , the lands of Tiningham : and for another ( named James ) the lands of Spot : hee is said to have purchased Wedderburn for himself : but the truth is , he had it tenne yeares before , not by marriage , but by the gift of Archbald , Earle of Douglas , which must have beene the same Duke of Turrain , as the date of the evident doth clearly show , being of the yeare 1413. His sonne Archbald also entitling himself Earle of Wigton , and Lord of Longuevill , and Eskdale giveth to the same Sir Alexander Hume a bond of one thousand Nobles , dated at Bothwell the 9. of February 1424. whom it designeth Sir Alexander Hume of that Ilke , which I mention the rather to show what great freindship hath been between them . Here again I cannot passe by the sloath . and unattentivenesse of Writers sloath , ( Scottish and English ) who reckon amongst the slain , here a sonne of the Earle Douglas ( whom some call James ) and make him his second sonne , nay , some doe even make him his eldest sonne and heire , and call him Earle of Wigton . But those are all mistakings ; for the Earle of Wigton ( whose name was Archbald ) was left sick at home , and possessed the Earledome after his fathers death : Neither was it yet James his second sonne , who was Lord of Abercorn , and outlived his elder brother , and his children , that vvere put to death in the Castle of Edinburgh , to whom also he succeeded in the Earledom , as the same Writers themselves ( almost all of them ) confesse . Wherefore the Reader had need even to reade the best Writers vvith judgement and attention , seeing such escapes are incident ever to the most accurate , and carefull Historians . Touching this battell , this is the relation of it , by Duscrres in his inventarie whom I have chosen to follow , not because I thinke it the fullest or faithfullest narration ( for certainly the Frensh Writers speake slenderly enough of the actions of strangers , as may bee instanced in the battell of Baugue , and other exploits done by the Scots in France , which they passe in silence ) but because his testimony cannot be rejected by the French , and may well bee admitted by the English , as being indifferent for his person , and no wayes partiall in his penne , at least in setting forth this battell : but if we shall rely upon the writings or reports of our owne Countrey men . The losse of that field was caused for the envie and treachery of the Earle of Narban . We heard how Douglas , and he contested for the vantguard , each striving who should be first : Douglas being ready sooner then he , or being quicker in his march led on before him , and charged the enemy first : whereupon he abandoned them , and would not second them as he should have done . And so it came to passe that they being destitute of his help , and not being able to make head against such a multitude , were encompassed about by the English ( who saw their backs left bare ) and so overthrown , fighting valiantly , that they might die nobly . Some blame the Lombards ( who were in the Army assisting the French that were for the Da●…lphin ) but tell not , why , nor wherefore , or wherein . Others say that there were 400. of them all horsemen , who being commanded to breake the rankes of the English , either in the flank or in the reare , did what they were appointed to doe : and having broken through the English Army , vvent to their carriage to pill and spoil , vvithout prosecuting their charge anyfurther ▪ and so having got their prey , departed off the field , whereupon 2000. English Archers that were set to keep the carriage , and had now no more to doe ; entered into the battell , and being fresh and unwearied , made such an impression , that they did cast the ballance and gave the overthrow , whereas before they had fought for the space of three houres so doubtfully , that no eye could guesse , which way the victory would goe . Major also telleth us that there was some dissention between the Duke of Turraine , and Buchan , for precedency , but that is not likely : for although Buchan had the honour to bee Constable , and was the chiefe Commander , so long as hee had no other Colleague but Wigton ( his brother in lavv ) yet the Earle Douglas being an old experimented Commander , and it being ever his due to leade the the vantguard at home , and being even there , for his vvell knovvne vvorth and sufficiency made Duke and Marshall upon his first arrivall . It carrieth no appearance that the other vvould strive vvith him , especially seeing hee vvas his sonne in lavv ( for he had married his daughter ) and also the yonger souldier . And that the English did acknovvledge the Duke for Chi●…tane , it is evident : for Bedford sent the Trumpet to him , and hee returned ansvver : It vvas he that resolved they should not fight , and tooke it ill at Narbons hands , that he vvould not follovv his conclusion , and obey his direction : So as I cannot be persvvaded that their could , or vvould bee any difference betvveen them for that matter : And if there had beene any , they vvould have composed it , and agreed betvvixt themselves before that time , to have resisted the common enemy . However , they both died in the field : And the Earle of Narbon wanted not his reward of his either treachery , or headinesse and folly , for hee was taken and hanged as guilty of the death of the Duke of Burgundie . A notable example of the end of such as carry themselves after such a manner . Of those that escaped at this defeate , Charles the Daulphin ( afterwards King Charles the seventh ) erected a company to continue a guard to himselfe , and his successours for ever , of the Scottish Nation . For he was not contented to reward their Nobles and Leaders with honours and dignities , but thought himselfe also obliged to recompence even the inferiour sort , and to respect the whole Nation , whose valour and fidelity hee had found to deserve regarding : As also he saw their service would be steadable to him , and therefore in wisedome did thus obliege the whole Countrey , and ingage them to assist him in his warre with England . And so they did , as now , so often hereafter both within the Isle , and in France : neither could they ever bee diverted by any losse or dammage whatsoever . They did still cleave fast unto the French , untill they were fully freed from the English : sending over army after army , and Captain after Captain , without wearying or relenting , or the least shrinking : and even after this battell wee reade of divers that spent their lives in the Frenches quarrell against the English , and that within three yeares , ( notwithstanding this great losse ) who were men of quality , such as William Stuart and his brother , and two Douglasses who were predecessours of the houses of Drumlanrigge and Lochleven . There was also amongst those that escaped at this battell of Vernoill , one John Carmichell of the house of Carmichell , in Douglasdale ( who was Chaplain to the Duke of Turrain ) a valiant and learned man , who remained in France , and was for his worth and good parts made Bishop of Orleance : hee it was that during the siege thereof , did notably assist Jane D'arc , called the maiden of Orleance , The French History calleth him John de Saint Michael ( for Carmichell ) ●…vesque d' Orleance , escossois de nation . Hee is mentioned in the particular Story of that Maiden , and in the Annales , Ecclesiae Aurelianensis auctore Carolo Sanseye Aureliano . Wherefore in the principall Church in Orleance , called Saint Croix , there is Masse said for the soules of the Scots dayly that were slain there . But to return . The Duke of Turraine being thus slain , was buried in the Church of Tours , called Saint Gratians , the 20. of August , in the yeare 1424. whose coat of armes was to bee seen long agoe upon the gates of Tours . Hee was a man no where branded for any vice , and of unquestioned valour , for so much as belonged to his own person , equall to any that were before him . Neither can I see any evident fault in his conduct and leading . It is true Major taxeth him as unskilfull and unfit for matters of warre , though hee gives him a large commendation of courage , and personall valour . But he seemeth to have grounded his censure more upon the successe , then upon his actions , to which we will answer with the Poet , Careat successibus & quisquis ab eventu , &c. Or if that will not serve , we wil choke him with the French Proverb , Le clerc aux armes , he is not a fit judge of such things . But we have to do with a more judicious indeed , who glanceth at no lesse for speaking of his father Archbald the Grimme , he saith that Chivalry stood in him ; as though hee would have said , it fell also with him : which seemeth to prejudge this his sonne ( Tine-man ) if not in his valour ( which no man can call in question ) yet in his conduct , and leading , which is the chiefe propertie and qualitie of a Generall and Commander . Of which judgement questionlesse , the ground is the same , his hard successe in his interprises . And there is no reason that hee should be thought so of for it , if there be no other cause of evill successe . But if there may bee some other reason , and if many well guided Armies , and interprises have mis-carried ( which none will deeme , there is no necessity nor just cause why he should be double burthened , both with ill luck , and the blame of it , unlesse it be shewed where and how he erred , which neither hee , nor any other Historian doth . Wee must therefore absolve him as free from this imputation , seeing they do not make it to appeare , that hee was guilty of any errour , or oversight either at Homildon , Shrewsberry , or Vernoill . On the contrary , his warinesse and circumspection may sufficiently appeare to the attentive and judicious Reader . Let not then his praise be lessened , or his glory eclipsed by his crosse fortune , nor himselfe esteemed any whit inferiour to his Predecessours . Na●… hee deserveth to have so much more praise , as that his worth doth shine through the thick cloud of the frownings of fortune , whereas their glory is increased , and lustred with the beams of a prosperous issue in their exploits . Archibaldus Duglassius Dux Turronensis , & Johannes Stuartus , Buchaniae comes ad Vernolium coesi . Gallia vos titulis ; vos gallica regna trophaeis Auxistis , meritis utraque regna cluunt , Tertia si invideant , quid mirum ingentia damna Queis data , Saxonidum dum cecidere duces , Desine lingua procax verbis incessere Testis : Gallus adest , servat tot monumenta ducum , Et vos aeternum memorabit Gallia cives Grata suos , titulos quae dedit , & tumulos . Johan . Johnston Heroes . Archbald Douglas , Duke of Turraine , and John Stuart Earle of Buchan his son in law , Constable of France , killed at Vernoill . France gave you Titles , you it Trophies gave ; Both Kingdomes , mutuall obligation have : If the third envi'd it , their losse receiv'd Might well excuse them , being oft bereav'd Of their most ancient Leaders : no bold tongue By base detraction can have power to wrong Your merit , and the French will witnes beare , To whom your memory shall still be deare : Their gracefull Monuments the same expresse , As do the places you did there possesse . Archbaldus Dux Turonensis &c. Bis vi●…tus , captusque amisso milite ; caesus Denique cum sociis , Vernoliae occubui : Dura meis raro affulsit victoria signis : Nostra tamen nusquam sunt data terga fugae . Semper at ingentes haec dextra liquit acervos , Hostibus & semper maxima damna dedit . Hinc fortis , magnisque ducis 〈◊〉 urnant Me titulis ; nec non hostis & ipse colit . In me virtutem videas , verumque laborem : Fortunam proprio quis 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ? Discite , ab eventu qui censes facta virosque Exemplo , non sic 〈◊〉 notanda , meo . Archbald Tine-man , Duke of Turraine . Twice with my Armies rout I lost the field ; Now with my friends , I am at Vernoil kill'd : My labours hardly met with victory , Yet did I never stay behinde , nor flie , But kill'd my foes on heaps : my valiant arme Did ever bring revenge , and equall harme . Hence was I honoured , as most fit to be A Leader , courted ev'n by th' enemy . In me you may the hight of worth behold ; But ah , who in his power can Fortune hold ? O! you , who from th' event your censures take , Disprove your selves , and me the instance make . Of Archbald the fourth of that Name , the foureteenth Lord , and fifth Earle of Douglas , he was the first Earle of Wigton , Lord of Bothwell , Galloway and Annandale , the second Duke of Turraine , Lord of Longe-ville , and Marshall of France . UNto Archbald Tine-man succeeded his eldest son Archbald he had to wife Mauld Lindsay , daughter to David Earle of Crawford : hee was married at Dundee with great solemnitie and pompe . This alliance hath been the occasion of Crawfords going with him into France ( as wee told before ) and the ground of that friendship that was betwixt Earle William ( slain at Stirlin ) and that Earle Crawford , whereof wee shall heare more of hereafter . It appeareth also , that there hath beene continuall friendship betwixt these houses from the first Earle Douglas time , who procured a pardon for Crawford who had slain John Lyon. His children were William , David , and a daughter named Beatrix . The time that he possessed the Earledome of Douglas , from his fathers death in the yeare 1424. untill the year 1439. is fifteen yeares ; all the time of King James the first , and about two yeares in the minority of King James the second . So that the estate of the Countrey may easily bee knowne , if wee call to minde what hath beene said of the death of King Robert the third , and of Robert the Governour , to whom his sonne Murdock did succeed in the government before the King came home out of England . This Murdock , when hee had governed , or rather misgoverned some three yeares , or foure , being provoked by an insolent fact of his eldest sonne Walter ( who to despight his father , had wrung off the necke of a Hawke which hee loved ) determined in revenge hereof to send and fetch home the King out of England , and to possesse him of his Kingdome . No other motive we reade of to induce him to this ; whether it bee because there were no other , or because they have not beene carefull to set downe the true cause , I know not . But if this were indeed , it is so memorable , that it deserveth not to bee passed over with a dry foot ( as wee say ) and without observation : For who can but wonder at so rare a fact betwixt a father and a son , as the like is not extant elsewhere in any Record or History , and hath not beene heard of , I thinke , since the world stood : That a man to spite his sonne should quite a Kingdome , whereof hee was possest , and saw no other appearance but to enjoy it still . I confesse there hath beene much unnaturall unkindenesse in the world , whereby they have procured the death and destruction of those , whose safetie they were tied by the bonds of nature to maintain : but that hath beene for their owne honour and dignity , to obtain the place , or continue in it , which men doe so much aspire unto : but that their unnaturall despight should reach so farre , as to undoe themselves , and to quite a Kingdome , for obtaining and retaining whereof , ambitious men turne the world upside downe , onely to satisfie a passionate humour , or malice conceived against their owne childe ; let him that can , parrellel it , and put this up in his note booke for a second instance at least . It was for love of his Cousin , for respect to equitie , out of duetie to God , and love of his Covntrey , which he saw hee himselfe could not , and his son would not govern rightly , and therefore thought fittest to resign it to him that both could and would doe it ; it was a good , sober , wise and worthy thought . But then our Writers doe him wrong , that never signifie that such was his minde , no not in the least word : and mention onely his owne anger , and the instigation of Coline Campbell a chiefe man in Argyle , who blew the coale out of a private spleene against Walter , who had done him some injury : but however it were , whether his spight moved him to do justice , or desire to do justice caused despight , he threatned to do it to his sonne , and performed what he threatned ; for he sent Ambassadours into England to have the King released , of which this Archbald was chief , about the time of his very first coming to the Earledome . He with his two Colleagues , William Hay Constable , and Henry Bishop of Aberdene , carried the matter so wisely , that they brought it to a conclusion , which was the more easily effected , because King James married a Lady of England without portion , which they thought would move him to forget any wrong he had received by their injust detention . The Ambassadors also condescended upon a ransome to be payed , though none were due from him , who never was lawfull prisoner . So at last hee was released , came home , and was crowned King the 22. of May 1424. We have heard hitherto the rise of the house of Douglas , and the continuall increasing thereof by their great deserts , with the approbation and applause of all men , with the good will and liking of their Princes for the space of many yeares : their Princes delighting to imploy them , and they endeavouring to serve their Princes , and their Countrie to the uttermost of their power , with a good harmony , and happy agreeing on all sides . Let us now bee contented from henceforth to find the world to bee the self still ; that is , rolling and tumbling by perpetuall vicissitudes , and changes : for though this house shall yet grow up , and to a higher pitch then ever , yet this concordance shall not continue so full , but shall beginne to have some jarring ▪ their Princes being jealous of them , they standing in feare of their Princes , sometimes in favour , sometimes out of favour ; sometimes imployed , and sometimes neglected : having mens affections sometimes towards them , sometimes averse from them , liking and disliking by turnes and fits . They also for their parts were now well-contented , then malecontented : now dealing in affaires , then withdrawing from all medling in State businesse , from whence did spring discords , imprisonments , banishments , slaughters : which things beginning in this mans time at his committing , strangenesse and discontents continued in the next , and proceeded in his sonnes time to his putting to death , and was transferred as hereditary to his successours , with many interchangings of smilings and frownings of fortune and Court , which at last ended in that fearefull catastrophe of the finall ruine of this flourishing family , in the yeare 1483. which troubles continued the space of 59. or 60. yeares , beginning at King James the firsts return into Scotland . For the very first yeare of his reigne , this Earle Douglas is committed to ward , but is soone released : and then within some few yeares , was committed again . For his first commitment , there is no cause thereof recorded , onely the time thereof doth furnish some matter of conjecture , together with other circumstances set downe . As for the time , it was when Duke Murdocke , and his sonnes ( Walter and Alexander ) and their Mother , and her Father , Duncane Stuart , Earle of Lennox , were committed . The circumstances are , that he was not alone , but with him twenty foure Earls and Barons were committed likewise , amongst whom there were some of the Kings owne speciall friends , and kindred : as William Earle of Angus , who was the Kings sisters sonne , and so Duke Murdokes Cousin . The Earle of Douglas was also allied with him : for Robert the Governours son , John Earle of Buchan had married Douglas sister ; and there had been cor-respondency , and friendship betwixt the Governour , and Archbald the Grimme , as also Archbald Tyne-man ( this Earles Father and Grandfather ) and Buchan and this Earle , had been fellowes in Armes together in France at Baugue : as also Buchan and Archbald Tyne-man were slain together at Vernoill . Likewise the Earle of March , who had been restored by Duke Murdocks Father , and had kept good friendship with him , and his sonne after his restitution : Robert Stuart of Roth-house , Stuart of Dundonald : John Stuart of Carden , being also of the name of Stuart , and all in some neernesse of blood to Murdock , as the King himselfe also was . The rest Hepburn of Hailes , Haye of Yester , Ramsay of Dalhousie , Haliburtoun of Dirleton , we finde to have beene dependers of the houses of Douglas and March ▪ and the rest also , Walter Ogilbe , Alexander Seiton , or Gordon , Haye Arroll , Scrimger Constable of Dundee , have beene friends and followers of the house of Douglas , as wee find they did assist and accompany them in diverse battells ; and have also perhaps had some friendship with the Duke or his Father in law , as commonly the Nobilitie are allied , and of kinne one to another . Who therefore ( thought they were willing , that their lawfull and rightfull Prince should enjoy his owne place ) would not agree so easily to the putting to death of those , whom the King was resolved to make out of the way . Now what it was that moved the King to this course , whether desire to be revenged of the cruelty of Robert the Governour ( their Father ) toward David D. of Rothsay his elder brother , or for his mis-demeanour and undutifusnesse towards his Father ( Robert the third ) or for his neglecting himself in his captivity , or for that he esteemed all that government ( of Robert and Murdock ) to be an usurpation of the Crowne , and feared the like hereafter , or even perhaps found such practisings to his prejudice , is uncertain . However being resolved to ridde himself of them , he thought it the safest way to make them fast , who hee beleeved would not be so well contented with it , as he desired . Hee did therefore commit them till he had tried their minds , and drawn them to his course , or at least taken order with them to sit quiet . And this was not long a doing : for we reade that the foresaid prisoners were all shortly releeved , and some of them also put upon the others quree ( or assise ) as Douglas , March , Angus , Arrole : But by what means he hath constrained them to be content , or what remonstrance or evidence hee hath given them , to let them see that those men were guilty of death , or what crime they died for , ( if any new conspiracy , or what else ) our Histories tell us not , which is a great defect in them : Major thinketh it likely that there was some conspiracy found against the King , otherwise they would never ( saith hee ) have condemned such men to death ( Princes of the blood as wee may call them ) and their owne especiall friends . And thus much of the Earle Douglas first committing , and the issue thereof . For the second Hollinshed and Boetius doe agree , that the K. arrest the Earle Douglas , and kept him long in prison ; till at last , by the mediation of the Queen and Prelats , he and the Earle of Rosse were released . Boetius calleth him Archbald Duke of Turraine plainly : but Hollinshed is pleased ( out of sume partiall humour as should seeme ) to suppresse the Title of Duke of Turrain , and this is all the difference betwixt them . It was some yeares after his first committing , but what yeare ? it is not condiscended upon . Some say , it was in the yeare 1431. but impertinently , for the yeare 1430. is the yeare of his releasing , except wee will thinke that hee hath been imprisoned thrice , which is not mentioned by any . And a little mention there is of the cause wherefore hee was warded , whereof Major complaineth saying , that our Annals tell not the cause of the Stuarts executions , and the incarcerating of the Earle Douglas , and John Lord of Kennedie , the Kings owne sister sonne ; for both were committed , Douglas in Logh-leeven , and Kennedy in Stirling ; for how shall it bee knowne whether it was done justly , or for matters of weight , or if for trifles onely , and for his owne pleasure . Others insinuate a cause , but doe but glance at it without setting it downe so clearely as to let men know , whether it were just or unjust , which is the light and life of History , and the right end and use thereof : for they say no more , but that they had spoken sinisterly or rashly , and somewhat more freely then became them , of the estate and government of the Countrey . What use can any man make of this generality ? rashnesse may be a fault , yet perhaps none at all in them , of whom it is spoken , they being Privie Counsellers . Likewise the phrase ( freelier than became ) is so generall , that the Reader remaineth unsatisfied : neither can posteriry ( either King or Subject ) judge of this fact , whether it were right or wrong , or whether the example were such as men ought to follow , or forbeare and avoid . It should have been expressely set downe what they spake , to whom , if to the King himselfe , or to others : In what sort , if by way of admonition , counselling , or advising , or if by forme of cavilling , detracting , murmuring , mutining , and such other circumstances , whereon the judgeing of it chiefly dependeth : In this uncertainty wee can hardly condemne or absolve , praise or censure them , In that the Lord Kennedy was of the same minde , and category with the Earle Douglas , apparently it hath not been spoken in malice , seeing the Kings nearest and his best friends ( such as these Kennedies were ) having approved thereof . And that Noblemen must not speake their opinion freely of things to the King , or if the King ( being without malice ) is very hard : for how shall a King know , that will not heare ? hee cannot know all by himself : And how shall he heare , if Noblemen have not leave to speake freely : he cannot heare all by himself . Such carriage as this hath often done Princes ill , and it may bee , hath done this same Prince no good . And what ever it was , that displeased the Earle Douglas in the government was either for the Countreyes sake , or the Kings owne sake , or for both : why might not the King thinke there might be errours ? And why might hee not then have heard them ? To have proceeded so vehemently ( for their hath been great ve●…emency in it ) to have cut off his owne kinsmen , and leave none but himself for the Earle of Athole to aim at : it was most important , and worthy to be considered of , whether or not it were best for him ( in policie ) to do . Doubtlesse his doing of it hath emboldned Athole to cut off the King himselfe , when all the rest were cut off first by the King. And was it nothing to lose the Nobility , to alienate their hearts ? to irritate them by imprisonments , forfeitures ? hath it not done ill thinke you , and encouraged him to goe on in his intended treason ? looking for the favour of the offended Nobility , or for neutrality , and slacknesse to revenge the Kings death . We see the King himselfe retreateth his taxations once or twice , when he saw the people grieved therewith . And wisely , in that hee ●…as carefull to keep the hearts of the people . But was there no care to bee taken for keeping the Nobility also ungrieved ? was it enough that they would not , or durst not ( perhaps ) or could not openly rebell ? was it not something to want their affections ? to want the edge , and earnestnesse thereof ? to relent them , to coole them ? Certainly such proceedings as these have encouraged his enemies in hope of impunitie ( greater then they found ) yet in hope of it to go on with their designes , and hath furthered and hastned that dolorous conclusion which ensued . What ever the cause were , he acknowledgeth the Earle Douglas mind not to have been of the worst sort , in that he releaseth him , and in token of a full reconcilement , makes him a witnesse to the Baptisme of his two sonnes ( twinnes ) which was in those dayes no small honour and signification of good will , and a pledge of intimate friendship . He made also his sonne William ( though but a childe of five yeares of age ) the first knight of fiftie , who were dubbed at that solemnity , as the Manuscript affirmeth . By which actions , as he honoured Douglas , so did he withall honour himself in the eyes of the people , and of forrainers , gracing his Court , and that so solemne action by the presence of such a Peere , farre more then if he had been onely accompanied by Creighton and Levingston and such new men ( who were but new and mean in regard of him ) as then but growing under the Kings favour . And so it is indeed , the Prince honoureth his worthy Nobles by his favours to them , and they grace , adorn , and decore , and give a lustre and splendour to him , and his Court , by their presence , and attendance thereat . And it is wisedome so to esteem , and so to use them ; and happy are they on both sides , and happy is the Countrey where they thus agree and concurre . This was he in the yeare 1430. in October , released out of prison , and this solemnity being ended , hee past into France , and was installed in his Dutchie of Turrain : whether he went thither for that onely , or if hee used that fairest colour of his absence , that he might not see the government , which hee disliked , and in which hee had no employment , I leave it : yet his going thither gave others occasion to grow great , and to be employed ; especially the house of Angus , which was at last the overthrow of his house . So as the honour and profit they had in France , may have been said to have beene their wrack in Scotland : what by the envie of their greatnesse , what by their absence from home , as hath beene said . So uncertain are the affaires of the world ! neither is there extant any mention of his actions in France , though at that time ( from 1430. till 1437. ) the warres were very hot there , King Henry the sixth of England being brought over in person , and crowned in Paris . It is attributed to the Earle Douglas , that he moved the King of France to require King James his daughter ( Margaret ) in marriage to his sonne ( asterward Lewis the eleventh ) and that he met her when she landed at Rochel , and was present at her marriage . He remaineth there untill the yeare 1437. in which , the 21. of February , King James was slaine at the Black friers in Saint Johnstoun by Patrick Grahame , and Robert Stuart , at the instigation of Walter Stuart Earle of Athole , the Kings fathers brother by the Earle of Rosses daughter , who pretended to be the rightfull heire to the Crowne ; and that he was wronged , and defrauded by the sonne of Elizabeth Moore , who was onely a Concubine , as he alledged . This posterity of Elizabeth Moore he had craftily caused to destroy one another ; the Governour Robert to destroy David Duke of Rothsay , and now King James ( Davids brother to destroy the house of the Governour D. 〈◊〉 , and his children . And thus causing the King to spoile and weaken himselfe by cutting off his friends , none being left alive but the King and his onely sonne ( a childe of six yeares ) he was emboldened to put hands in the King also ; so much the rather , because he knew that many of the Nobility were discontented , what with being imprisoned , what with being endamaged in their goods , lands , and rents ; what with putting to death o●… their friends . So that he hoped that they would be wel contented with the Kings death , at least they would not take great care or paines to be revenged therof : which things if the Earl Douglas foresaw , and being grieved therewith , admonished the King thereof , or caused any other to warne him that these courses were not for his good ; this event sheweth he did the part of a faithfull Subject , Friend , and Counsellour . However , it was not so well taken by the King at that time , as being contrary to his humour , and present disposition . He did wisely also to withdraw himselfe , seeing he could not help things , as he would have gladly done . Now that the King was dead , he returns home , and was present ( as some think ) at the Coronation of his sonne James the second , who was crowned at Edinburgh the tenth of March 1437. not a moneth ( or no more then a moneth ) after the death of his father : where it is to be observed , that either the death of the King is not rightly said to be in the yeare 1437. in February , in stead of 1436. or else they reckon the yeare from the first of January , which was not the custome then . And yet Buchanan meanes so , for he layes he was slaine in the beginning of the yeare 1437. in February , which makes me think the Earle Douglas hath not come in time to the Coronation , seeing he could hardly have used such diligence to have had notice of the Kings death , made himselfe readie , and come home out of France in so short a space , though the winde had favoured him never so much . However , through his absence , his adverse partie and faction had gotten such possession of guiding State affaires in the late Kings time , and had so handled the matter , that he was no whit regarded , nor was there any account made of him . He was not admitted to the managing of any businesse of the Common-wealth , or any publick place or Office therein . Creighton and Levingston ( the one made Protectour or Governour , the other Chancellour ) did all according to their pleasure . Our Writers say that the reason hereof was , because the Nobility envied the greatnesse of Douglas , which was suspected , and too much even for Kings . How pertinently either they write so , or the Parliament thought so , I referre it to be judged by the indifferent . He was farre from the Crowne , to which he never pretended title ; his predecessours had quit all pretension , title , claime , or interest thereto , in the time of K. Robert the second he that did claime it , and gave over , and all his posterity after him had ever behaved themselves modestly , they had submitted themselves to all government , even to be ruled by them who were but Governours onely , and not Kings ( Robert and Murdock ) as obediently in every thing as any of the meanest of the Nobility , and had never given occasion of any suspition to any man , nor taken upon them any thing beyond or above the rest , unlesse it were they tooke greater paines in defence of the libertie of the Countrey , in which they spent their lives under their Kings . And this same man in the late Kings time had behaved himselfe most humbly , going to prison once or twice , and obeying his Soveraign in all things , without the least show of discontentednesse , farre lesse of opposition . So that whatever hard opinion either the King had taken of him , or any man had put into the Kings head , hath beene without his deserving ; who if he had beene that way disposed , how easily might he have troubled the Governour , and the whole Countrey ? But suppose they did suspect , and were jealous of his greatnesse ( though without a cause ) what moved them to neglect and passe by the rest of the ancient Nobilitie ? was there none of them fit for those places ? where was the Earle of March , a valiant man , and of an ancient stocke ? Where was the Earle of Angus , the Earle of Cassils , and divers others ? They will say that Creighton and Levingston were wise men . But were they the onely wise men ? were there no more wise men in the Countrey ? Then if they were wise , were they good also ? were they just ? were they sober , modest , and moderate ? For without these vertues their wisedome was not good , but dangerous , and even ill ; chiefly when it is joyned with power , and is in authoritie . And I pray you what hath their wisedome beene ? or wherein did they shew under to the late King ? They tell not , and I beleeve it , if it be tried , it shall be found that which made him to have so short a life , that gave occasion to his enemies to take courage against him ; even their seeking of their own particular advancement , with offence , and vexing of the Nobilitie , without regarding the Kings good , or the good of the Countrey And it must needs be so , if it were the same wisedome they show now after the Kings death . Therefore if we shall speake in right termes of that matter , we shall say that Alexander Levingston , and William Creighton , both small Barons onely , and not of the ancient bloud of the Nobilitie ; new men bent to seeke their owne profit onely , without regard to any other duty , had mis-governed the State , and gotten the guiding of the late King , and drawn such a faction , that Douglas being absent in France , they had gotten all into their hands ; Levingston being made Governour , and Creighton Chancellour , who is the first Chancellour that wee reade of in our Chronicles . The Earle Douglas tooke such indignation at this , esteeming it disgracefull to the whole Nobility , and more especially to himselfe , that finding he could not bow his heart to acknowledge such men , and yet not willing to oppose or impugne them who were cloathed with authority ( which would move warre and trouble in the Countrey ) he chose , as the calmest and best course , to withdraw himselfe , and not to meddle with any publick businesse , or to take any care or share in ruling the Countrey , which he left to them to whom it was committed , and to such as had taken it upon them : with this resolution he returned home to his owne house , without further troubling of them . But that he might keepe them from infringing his liberties , and priviledges granted to the house of Douglas of old by former Kings for their good services , hee commanded such as were his to containe themselves within his regalitie , to answer to his courts , and to no other ; professing plainly that he would keepe his priviledges , and that if any man should usurp or encroach upon them , he should be made sensible of his errour . This was a bit cast into the teeth of the new Governours , and did curb them very short on the south side of Forth , he having large lands and lordships in those parts . And here their foolishnesse was quickly seene , in that they would take upon them such authority , and the unadvisednesse of those who had given it them who were not able to execute it , but by the permission of another . Hereupon also fell out great inconveniences , for the men of Annandale ( accustomed to theft and robbery ) seeing the Earle Douglas discontented , and retired ( who was the onely man they stood in awe of , and was onely able to restraine them ) they began to slight and contemne the authority of these Governours , and to molest and vexe their neighbouring Shires with driving away preyes and bootie by open force and violence , as if it had beene from the enemie . This the Governours not being able to represse , the evill increased daily , as a canker , so that it overspred the whole region ( almost ) on that side of Forth . In the mean while these jolly Governours were so carefull of the common good of the Countrey , and the charge committed to them , that in stead of thinking how to pacifie and restraine those Annandians , they fall at variance each with other , sending out contrary Edicts and Proclamations : The Governour commanding that none should acknowledge the Chancellour , and the Chancellour that none should obey the Governor ; so that when any came to the one to lament his estate , and seeke redresse ; he was used by the other as an enemie , and both pretended the Kings authority . For the Chancellour had the King in his custodie in the Castle of Edinburgh , and the Governour had the name of authority , and was in Stirling with the Queene mother : at last she under colour to visit her sonne , found meanes to convey him out of the Castle in a Chest to Stirling . And now the Governour having gotten the Kings person to countenance and strengthen his authority , went with an Army to besiege the Castle of Edinburgh where the Chancellour was . The Chancellour to make himselfe a party , sendeth to the Earle Douglas , offers to come in his will , desireth his protection , remonstrates to him the cruelty , avarice , and ambition of the Governour , telling him that he was deceived , if he thought they would goe no further then to seeke to extinguish him , and that he would make him but a step to overthrow the Nobility , and him with the first . Douglas returned answer , That the Governour and Chancellour were both alike false , covetous , and ambitious , that their contentions were not of vert●…e , or for the good of their Countrey , but onely for their owne particular quarrells , and private commodity , in which contention there was no great matter which of them overcame , and if both should perish , the Countrey were the better ▪ neither could there be a more pleasant sight for all honest men , then to see such a couple of Fencers yoked together . This answer was so true : that none can or doth contradict it . Their falsehood he hath known , and that is it which men call wisedome in them by a faire name . It showeth it self in their dealing with this Earles sonne , and appeares also in their carriage one towards another , each striving who should deceive the other . Their factiousnesse likewise , ever when they durst for feare of a third , and that their contentions were but for particulars grounded upon ambition and avarice , without any care of the common wealth , the world saw it then , and it may be seen as yet . And therefore it is most true that the Countrey had been better if it had been ridde of such ambitious and avaritious Governours , seeking nothing but themselves ; and that it was not for any honest man to embroil himself in their so dishonest debates , but a pleasant show and spectacle indeed , and to be desired to see each of them ( though unjustly ) yet to doe justice upon the other . It was a free speech also , no man can deny . But they say it was not wisely spoken , for it made the two parties agree to his prejudice , and procured to him the hatred of both , at least increased their hatred : for no doubt they hated him before , and now hee might have divided them by joyning with the Chancellour . To this we answer , that seeing the Chancellour hated him , he would have done nothing , but served himselfe of him for his owne particular : either to have overthrovvne the Governour , that hee might have had all the prey and benefit alone ; or perhaps made use of his helpe to agree vvith him on better termes , and easier conditions , as vvee see they did agree at last . It vvas for no common good of the Countrey , no nor for any good vvill to the Earle : vvhat could he doe then ? vvhy should hee have meddled vvith them ? they say to have met vvith him in his ovvne craft , and to have used the one of them to overthrovv the other , that so both might have been overturned . Will men never leave these things ? such false tricks , such bastard and spurious vvisedome ? and shall vve not thinke there is another vvay besides it ? there is a true honest vvisedome , that honest men may keepe vvithout fashood , or any point , or tincture thereof , vvithout deceiving any , even the deceivers . What other ansvver did his request deserve ? vvas it not fit that such crafty companions , vvho had abused the Countrey , should heare the naked truth out of a Noblemans mouth ? Should such a Nobleman have glosed with such as they were , flattered and dissembled , and strooke cream in their mouth ? Nay , it is a part of punishment to wickednesse , even to heare the owne name given to it : And it is very fit it should have it . So that his answer cannot be justly taxed , but commended as true , just , magnanimous , and such as became his place , house and birth , without fraud or dissimulation , calling ( as the Macedonian did ) a spade , a spade ; vice by the owne name : which as he did here , so perhaps had hee done before , when hee spake of the government in the late Kings time , whereby it would appeare that such was his naturall disposition , far from all frivolous flattery , or dissimulation , either toward King or others . Indeed now these are crept in , and accounted wisedome , to the prejudice of the ancient true generositie of these great spirits , farre better , and farre more worthy to bee adorned with the full and due praise , then to bee obliquely taxed and nipped by halfe words , as not being wisely and profitably enough spoken , when there can be no just blame laid upon them . Neither ought it to be thought unprofitably said , or dangerously , seeing ( out of all question ) the same courage and magnanimity that moved him to speake the truth , made him also now to despise their persons , contemne their spleen , and slightly account of any power they had to doe him any harme , for all their joyning together . Neither is there any appearance , but that hee did it out of a right weighing of his owne and their power , and not out of any arrogancie , or idle confidence . And certainly , any indifferent man can thinke no lesse , and that they durst not attempt any thing against him or his successour after him , but after a most treacherous manner as ever any was since the world stood . So that there was not any want of wisedome in this speech , nor in this same point of profit or harme . His death followed not long after in the yeare 1438. at Rastalrigge , of a burning feaver : very opportunely & in a good time ( say our Writers ) and so it was indeed for them , and such as they were , who had now better opportunity to prey upon the Common-wealth , and spoil and use it for their best advantage . But it was unseasonably for the house of Douglas , which was left in the hands of a youth without experience ; and therefore uncircumspect , yea untimely for the Nobility , who became a prey to the avarice , and ambition of these two , and untimely for the Countrey , in that these two were now left free from the feare of him they stood most in awe of , and who might most have repressed their attempts , and bridled their appetites . This thing onely I can account worthy of reproofe in him , that he suffered Annandale to overcome the adjacent Countreyes , and did not hinder them from wronging the innocent people : hee should not have thought that it did not belong to him to hinder them , because he was no Magistrate . This if he had done , and kept justice within himself , it would have gotten him both favour and honour , and might have brought contempt upon the Governours , that could not keep peace in a more tractable and peaceable Countrey , nor amongst themselves : for how excellent a thing is it by good means to seeke honour . It would have taken away the occasion of the Calumnies of his enemies , who yet did much worse themselves : he was otherwise a valiant wise man , a lover of his Countrey , and of a free , plain , good and generous nature ; his generous disposition appeareth in his brave demeanour towards the Lord Kennedie . There being something wherein the Lord Kennedie had wronged and offended him , he conceived such high indignation thereat , that hee published his desire of revenge to be such , that whosoever would bring the Lord Kennedies head , should have the lands of Stuarton . This offer proceeded from so powerfull a man , and knowne to bee a man that would keepe his promise , the Lord Kennedie hearing of it , ( fearing hee could hardly long escape his hands ) resolved by way of prevention to be himselfe the presenter of his owne head unto him , and accordingly ( keeping his owne intention close to himselfe ) hee came privately to Wigton , where finding the Earle Douglas at his devotion in Saint Ninians Church ( a place famous in those dayes for the frequent resort of Pilgrimes thither ) immediately after divine Service , offered his head to the Earle , as one who had deserved the promised reward , and did crave it . The Earle seeing the resolution and confident assurance of the man , who had put himselfe in his power and mercy , forgave him all former faults , made him his friend , and withall gave him the reward he had promised , disponing to him and his heires the lands of Stuarton , which his successiours ( the Earles of Cassils ) doe peaceably enjoy to this day . He was buried in the Church of Douglas , called Saint Brides Church , with this inscription . Hic jacet Dominus Archbaldus Douglas , Dux Turoniae , comes de Douglas , & Longe-ville : Dominus Gallovidiae , & Wigton , & Annandiae , Locum tenens Regis Scotiae . Obiit 26. die Mensis Junii , Anno Domini millesimo quadringentisimo tricesimo octavo . Of William slain in Edinburgh Castle , the sixth William , the sixth Earle of Douglas , and third Duke of Turrain , &c. UNto Archbald Earle of Wigton , succeeded his sonne William , a youth of no great age , of an high spirit , and of a sweet , tractable , and meeke disposition . And therefore we cannot but detest and execrate the wickednesse , and treachery of his enemies , who did so unworthily cut off such a sprig in the very budding ; from whose blossomes none could but have expected passing good fruit , to the great good of the common-wealth , and Kingdome , if malice and envie had suffered it to come to maturity . Let us notwithstanding rest contented with his change begunne in his father by warding , and displacing from the roome of his Predecessours , from mannaging of affaires in the Kingdome , prosecuted against him in his life time , and now followed forth against his son . This vicissitude which befell this house , is to be found and seen in all humane affaires , and doth overturne all due and right order in the world , as farre as men can judge : for innocency is often overthrowne by cruelty ; honesty and uprightnesse of heart by craft , falshood and treachery : and yet let us reverence the Soveraigne cause , and Over-ruler of all things , who in this disorder directeth all things certainly by a great wisedome , and with good order doubtlesse , things unsearchable by man. But as nothing hath ever been so enormous , which may not receive some colour , either of vertue to make it seem good , or at least of some extenuation to make it seem not so ill , as it is : So this fact amongst others I perceive to bee of the same kinde : by some thought to be good ( but very ignorantly , or maliciously ) by some excusable , both in form and in fact , by a necessity , or pretext of the common good ; by all that have written , more slenderly handled , and doubtingly , then ought to be . For they leave it almost uncertain what ought to be judged of it , whether it be good or ill : so that sometimes you would thinke they condemne it , sometimes they allow of it , and none of them deals with it so fully , as reason would they should doe for the information of posterity , and according to the right law of an History : but as men do with nettles which they would gripe , they are affraid to handle them heartily and hardly . Now that this so instant a fact may the better appeare in the owne colours , I will labour to wash away the painting and plaister wherewith the Authours would so fain ( but falsely ) overlay it ; or wherewith mens judgements ( whereof many are but halfe wise , and perceive but the half of matters ; not plumming and sounding the depth and ground of things so well as were needfull ) may be deceived by others , or may fancy to themselves for excusing of it , that we may learne to detest and abhorre so detestable and horrible facts with a true detestation and abhorring in earnest and effect , that Pos●…erity may know and condemne , and avoid the like practices . And for this purpose , before wee come to the narration of the fact it selfe , we will speake something of the Authours thereof , Levings●…on , and Creighton , and their actions in the last Earle Douglas time . We heard before ( and wee must not forget it ) how well these men guided the Countrey , what care they tooke of the Common-wealth ; or to say better , how little care they tooke of it : how they cared for nothing save their owne particular ; under colour of the Common-wealth : each striving to disgrace other by their private speeches , and open Proclamations : so greedy and ambitious they were , that howbeit they had all the Co●…trey between them , yet it could not satisfie , or content them : they could not so much as agree between themselves , to divide the spoil , and part the booty peaceably and quietly , which theeves and robbers , and Pirats are wont to doe without discord or injustice . But they had not so much modesty , but fell at variance ; spoyling , fighting and besieging one another , till remembring themselves that a third might come and take the bone from both , they were so wise as to agree for feare of him I meane the Earle Douglas : and that they did so , more in that regard , then for any good to their Countrey or love they bore one to another , it soone appeared after his death : for incontinent thereupon they returned to their old byas , and the agreeance that was made for feare of him , lasted no longer then he lived : wherefore Levingston being Governour , and having the King also in his custody , being freed from the feare of the Earle Douglas , respected the Chancellour Creighton no longer , but began to despise him , and though now there was no band to binde him any longer to him , hee would give him no share of his bootie and spoil of the Countrey , but would needs keep all to himself . This was his ambition , or avarice , or both ; for ambition would be alone in all , and likes of no equall , no fellowship , no copartner . And avarice might also have moved him to this , for guiding all , he might take all : and if hee made the other partaker of the guiding , he behoved to make him partaker of the gain : and therefore hee would none of his assistance in the government . But let us see now how well he governed , hee imprisoneth the Nobles at his pleasure , upon light grounds of suspition onely , yea he casteth them into fetters . The third of August 1439. he warded the Lord Lorne and his brother Sir James Stuart , who had married the Queene Mother , upon suspition onely for their dealing with the Earle Douglas , and did commit the Queen her selfe to bee kept in a close chamber in Stirling Castle , of which hee himselfe was Captain : so that she could not get her selfe released , untill there was kept a Convention of the Lords , then by the intercession of the Chancellour and some others , she was dismissed , having given Sir Alexander Gourdon ( alias Seton ) who was the first Earle of Huntly , surety and cautioner for her , that she should pay 4000. markes to the Governour . This was his iniquity , yea tyranny , and barbarous abusing of Noblemen , and yet he gave remissions , and pardoned men guilty of great crimes , or passed them over by conniving . The Chancellour therefore ( who thought hee should have his share of the booty ) seeing his life thus debouted by the Governour , and not being able to help it , nor to have patience , and sit quiet , it being more then he could digest or beare with , retired him from Court to Edinburgh Castle , there to bee safe in his Fort , and lie in wait for the first opportunity that hee could finde to supplant Levingston . Neither was he slow in coping of him : for before the yeare was ended , hee tooke occasion of the Governours going to Perth , and knowing by intelligence the time and place of the Kings hunting in the fields about Stirling , thither hee rides , and bringeth him away to Edinburgh Castle . By this means the dice are changed , he had now gotten the durke ( as our Proverb goes ) he will divide the prey over again , he will have his large share of all , and direct all now , as Levingston had done before . The other finding himselfe in this strait , might lament his case , but could not helpe himselfe : necessity hath no law . The Chancellour had yeelded to him before , when he ( or the Queene for him ) stole away the King. Now he hath gotten a meeting , he must yeeld to him again , and so he doth : Bowes his bonie heart , goes to Edinburgh , gets mediatours , brings on a meeting , and finally agrees by the mediation of Henry Lighton , Bishop of Aberdene , and John Innesse , Bishop of Murray . But if you would see the right face of a stage play , deceivers , deceaving , dissembling , and putting a faire outside on their foule falshood , and proceedings ; reade me there harangues on both sides , that you may either laugh or disdain them . I cannot take leasure to set them downe at length ( as they are to bee found in our Histories ) but in a word , you shall finde nothing but pretexts of the Common-wealth , of the Publike peace , the good of the King , and the well being of all honest men , which is all joyned , and depends upon them , and their well being forsooth . That hath been still their scope , that hath beene the aime of all their intentions , no particular , no ambition , no avarice ; onely love of those things which were common and profitable unto all ▪ and because in them all did lie and subsist , in their standing honest men did stand , and by their ruine honest men did fall ; nay , the King and Countrey were ruined . For this cause and for no other , that the Countrey might bee well , that wickednesse may bee bridled , they forgive one another , avouching that their discords arose onely from diversitie of opinion , and judgement ; while as both seeking the common good , one thought one forme the best for it , and the other another form to bee best for it , and the other another forme ; which if it were true , let what hath been said above beare witnesse . It would make a man to loath speaking vertuously , to see vertue by them so farre abused ; yet the old Proverb might have warned them : ( Oportet mendacem esse memorem ) and sometimes a liar will speake truth is verified in them . They confesse their ambition , and striving for honour and preheminence , they are ashamed to say for goods and riches , but it was no lesse true , and both were alike faulty , and they exhort one another , and promise to amend thereafter by a better strife , who should be most moderate and just . But they were as true in keeping that promise as they were in their discourse what was past . When the Foxe preacheth , take heed of the hens ( saith the Proverb : ) we shall see notable moderation and justice , such , as the world hath scarce seen the like example of treacherous tyranny . This is the sum of these jolly men harangues . The conclusion is a new friendship ( if falshood be friendship ) or rather a conspiracy against the Countrey , and directly against the Noblemen , who ( their conscience telleth them ) hate them as new men , lifted up to the highest degree ( as they grant themselves ) and that was reproach enough to the Nobility , and an argument of their unworthinesse . But they might have said as truely , that they were hated for abusing the King and Countrey for their private advantage , under pretext of the common wealth , which whether the whole Nobility resented or not , we cannot tell ; for there is no mention , and it is a wonder if they did not , yet it would seem they did not : they had stouped and taken on an unworthy yoake of slavery . But what ever the rest did , there was one that was a sorethorne in their foot , and moate in their eye , it behoved to be pluckt out . The Earle of Douglas was of the old spirit , of the ancient Nobilitie : he could not serve , nor obey but whom he ought , and the lawfull commanders , lawfully commanding for his honour and utility , whereof they were neither . Such a spirit is unsufferable , under these new conspiring Tyrants : he will not acknowledge their authority , his father had told them their holy dayes name , himselfe tooke them for his enemies . But how shall they doe with him ? hee is not easily to bee dealt with ; they must have muffles that would catch such a cat . Indeed he behaved himselfe as one that thought he would not be in their danger , hee entertained a great family , he rode ever well accompanied when he came in publike , 1000. or 2000. horse , were his ordinary train . He had great friendship , and dependance of old , he had been carefull to keep them ; and had also increased them , and conciliated many new followers and clients by his beneficence and liberality , and his magnificence , which was answerable to his place , suitable for an Earle of Douglas , and Duke of Turrain ; which Dutchie he had obtained himself to be invested in , as heire to his father : having sent Malcolme Lord Fleming , and Sir John Lawder of Basse , ( or Haton as others say ) into France for that purpose ; and was well accepted of in remembrance of his father : and grandfather , he had all his affairs in singular good order : he had his ordinary Councell , and Counsellours for guiding his affaires : he dubbed Knights also , as he thought men worthy ; which power and priviledge he did not usurp out of pride , nor take upon him by imitation to counterfeit Kings ( as some would insinuate ) but by vertue of both his dignities of Duke and Earle . And although he were but fourteen yeares of age at his fathers death ( in the yeare 1438. or 39. ) and was put to death in the yeare 1440. not having attained to fifteen or sixteen , or little above at the farthest , yet in this his port and behaviour , did not onely appeare the sparks of a great spirit , but also of such wisedome and providence as could scarce bee looked for from so young a man. This galled them so much the more to thinke if that fruit should come to ripenesse at any time , how poysonable , or rather , how great a counterpoyson it would prove to their greatnesse . But here the skinne of the Lion would not serve their turne ( he was too hard for them to deale with by force ) they doe there sow that on that of the Fox . The occasion fell out thus : During the time of the jarres betwixt themselves , the common affaires were neglected between stooles , and partly because they could not ( being but meane men of small power ) partly because they cared not to prevent , or to amend things , many insolencies were committed without redresse . The men of the Isles had come into the main land , had put all to fire and sword , men , women and children , young and old , farre and wide , omitting no kinde of example of avarice and cruelty : and that not onely on the Sea coast , but in the Lennox also : out of the Isle of Loch-lomond ( called Inch-mertin ) they had made an appointment with a Gentleman , named John Calhoon ( Laird of Lusse ) as if it had beento end some businesse and slain him ( the 23. of September ) with many such things , and many fowle facts had beene done in divers parts of the Countrey . Likewise Sir Allane Stuart of Darnelay was slain at Paselay , by Sir Thomas Boide ; and again , Sir Thomas Boide was slain by Alexander Stuart of Belmot ( brother to the foresaid Sir Allane ) and his sonnes , through which there arose great troubles in the west parts of the Countrey and Kingdome . The Borderers had not been idle , who living under the Earle Douglas , and being his followers , or retainers , what they did was interpreted to be done by his allowance . And at a Convention in Edinburgh many complaints were given in against him , but never a word spoken of the taxe of Isles men : never a word of Levingstons and Creightons own doings , who had warred one upon another , not a word of any other slaughter or bloudshed , but as though nothing were amisse in the Countrey , but what was done by the Earle Douglas dependers ; they onely were complained of . Whether the cause was in his enemies , and that this proceeded from them , or was done by their instigations , our Histories tell not , neither can we affirme it : yet it is strange , that there being so many more , and more enormous faults ( for the Isle-mens were more hainous ) none should bee taken notice of but his mens . Theirs are exaggerated , multiplied , and made odious ; and the envie thereof derived upon the Earle , as Authour of all : hereupon Sir Alexander Levingston , ( carrying malice in his heart , but dissembling it for a time , with a false deceitfull minde ) perswaded the rest , that the Earle Douglas was rather a man to be dealt with by fair means , then to be irritated by suspicions : As one who had such power , that if he should oppose himself , he might frustrate all their conclusions & decrees . Wherefore he procured a letter to be written to him in an honorable manner in all their names , intreating him , that being mindful of his place , mindful of his Progenitours , whose good deeds and deservings , most ample and notable towards his Countrey of Scotland , were still extant , he would come to the Convention of the States , which could not be conveniently kept without him , & his friends . If he had taken offence at any thing , they would satisfie him so far as was possible . If there were any oversight committed by him , or any of his friends , they would remit it , and would forgive many things to his most noble house which had done so many good offices , and so much good service to his Countrey . They would impute many things to the times , and consider his youth , and the great hope and expectation they had of him That hee should come therefore , and take what part of the affairs of the common-wealth he best pleased , and as his Ancestours had often delivered the Realme from dangers of warres by their armes and victories , so that he would be pleased now by his presence to raise it , and establish it almost sunk , & overthrown with intestine discords . This letter as it was honest in words , and very right , carrying that right course that should have been used towards him , and the duety that all these reasons contained , craved to have beene done to him , if it had been in sincerity : so being in falsehood , and with a treacherous intention , used onely to entrap him , makes their ditty the clearer : for he ( out of the honesty of his owne heart ) interpreting their meaning to be according to their words , and being of no ill disposition , but of a sweet and tractable nature , desirous of glory by good means , that so hee might have followed the footsteps of his Predecessours in all good offices to his Countrey , not having so great malice in his minde , and therefore not thinking any could have so great in theirs against him , as to seeke his life , ( for there had been no such occasion , their contentions with his father had not come to that hight and degree , but had been contained within the bounds of words onely ) and therefore not imagining that so great villany could have been harboured in their hearts , he willingly embraces the occasion of making peace in the Country , & that he might contribute thereto his best endeavours , taketh his journey for Edinburgh . His friends are reported to have furthered him in this resolution , in hope of their owne particular imployments and preferment , which ( say they ) blinded their eyes that they saw not the danger . But truely I cannot see how they could have seen any perill , unlesse wee will say that they might have knowne that the Governour and Chancellour were treacherous men , and had given some proofe of as great disloyalty before , which is not mentioned any where that we know of ; for though they were knowne to be subject and inclinable to falshood ( as his father had objected to them before ) yet it was so well covered , that it was not accounted falshood , but wisedome ▪ for there are degrees , and there bee many who will dispence with themselves to step something aside from the strict rule of uprightnesse ( which is accounted simplicity ) that will bee ashamed of so high a degree of manifest treason , as this was . So that howbeit they knew their falshood in some measure , yet could they not have looked for such proditorious dealing : besides it might have seemed to any man in discourse of reason , that if they cared not to blot their names with the foulnesse of the fact , yet they could not have great hope to gain or profit much by it : for what could it avail them to cut him off , seeing another was to succeed in his place , as ill ( perhaps ) as he ? so that by putting of him to death , all that they could gain would bee but an irreconcileable deadly feude with that house , which was too high a degree of enmity for any thing had yet been amongst them , being nothing but grudges , and such things as might have been easily taken away . So that ( sith the discourse of man for ought we can judge , could never have reached so farre as to have suspected what followed , but rather to have looked for the contrary ) I see not how the Earle nor his friends can be blamed for credulity , or how it can be censured in him as a defect of his youth , and proceeding from want of experience : for what otherwise could he have done , if his experience had been never so great ? or himselfe never so old ? neither is there sufficient ground to tax his friends as if their hopes had blinded them so that they could not see any perill which no discourse of reason could see , or apprehend . It is true , men ought to be circumspect , but it is a fault also , and proceeds of an ill nature to be suspitious , as he might well have seemed to bee , if hee had refused to come . The event showes there was cause to suspect the worst : but I deny that reason could foresee that event , or any , considering of the circumstances , could have made one to have looked for it : neither can any man save himselfe from such treason , neither can it bee reputed as simplicitie to the sufferer , but as a monstrous enormity to the doer . To returne to our purpose , their disloyall practice stayed not in this smooth letter : they double fraud upon fraud : for so soone as Creighton knew he was on his journey , he came many miles to meet him , and inviting him to his Castle of Creighton ( which was neare the way he was to go ) he feasted him , hee cherisheth him , hee entertaineth him friendly , cheerfully , and magnificently : and that not for one day , but two dayes , kindly ▪ with all the tokens and demonstrations of a friendly minde that could be given . And to remove all suspition of unfriendlinesse , and the more circumvein him , he admonished him familiarly , that hee would remember the royall dignity of his Prince , and his owne duty towards him . That he would acknowledge him for his Lord and Soveraigne , whom the condition of his birth , the lawes of the Countrey , and the consent of the estates had placed at the rudder of the Common-wealth : that he would labour to transmit his so great Patrimony acquired by the vertue of his Ancestours , and with spending of their bloud to his Posterity , even so as he had received it : that hee would be carefull to keepe the name of Douglas , which was no lesse illustrious and renowned for their faithfulnesse , then their deeds of armes , not onely from the foule blot of treason , but even from all stain of suspition , or aspersion thereof : that hee himselfe would abstain , and cause his men to abstaine , from wronging the poore people : that hee would put from about him theeves and robbers : finally , that in time to come he would set himselfe to maintaine justice , that if hee had offended any thing in times past , it might be imputed not to his naturall disposition , but to ill counsell , and that infirmity of his youth , penitency would be admitted , and accepted as innocency . Venemous Viper that could hide so deadly poyson under so faire showes ! unworthy tongue , unlesse to be cut out for example to all ages ! Let not the Poets bee thought fabulous , who have transformed men into beasts ; loe a beast composed of many beasts : a Lion , a Tiger , for cruelty of heart : a Waspe , a Spider , a Viper , for spight & malicious poysonablenesse : a Foxe and Camelion , for falsehood and doublenesse : a Cockatrice and Crokodile , and whatsoever nature hath brought forth , that is deceitfull and hurtfull , a sweet singing Ciren , enchanting the outward sences to the destruction of the listner , so much the more odious , that it was in the shape of a man ; and the more detestable , that it durst so pollute the image of God , so abuse the glory of man : the speech of the tongue therefore given him ( beyond the beast ) that he might imploy it well to informe aright , to speake truth , and to do good to others . The honest heart of the hearer that knew what he spake was right , and intended to follow so good counsell , taketh all in good part , beleeveth the speech for the truthes sake , the man for his speeches sake . And who could have done otherwayes ? who would not have thought that he who knew so well what was right , would have had some regard to doe right ? shall we account it childishnesse , that he accounted so of them , and suffered him to be so deceived ? nay , hee could not keep himselfe undeceived . Good men , and wise men have often been deceived both in sacred and prophane Histories . We must not impute it to childishnesse in Abner , that Joab stabbed him under trust , but esteeme it vile treachery in Joab , of whom David sayes , H●…e dieth not as a foole dieth , howbeit his hands were not bound , but as a good man falleth before a wicked man , that is by treason , which no man can eschew . It is said that his friends seeing so extraordinary entertainment , so faire language above measure , so humble behaviour , and withall so many messages ( at every step almost ) betwixt the Governour and the Chancellour , tooke some suspition of ill meaning , and that there arose first a still murmure through the whole company ; thereafter some began to admonish him , that if he would persist to goe on , he would send back his brother David , being mindefull of a precept of his fathers , That they should not come both together into one place where themselves were not masters , lest they should endanger their whole family at once . The unwary youth ( unwary indeed ; but what warinesse could he have poore innocent ? ) and very well inclined , even angry with his friends , stayed those murmures by a plain commandment , and assured his friends thus : That he knew well it was a perpetuall pest of great houses that they had ever about them some men that were impatient of peace , who made gain of the perils , travels , and miseries of their Lords and Patriarkes : and because in peace they were restrained by the bridle of the law , they were ever stirring up strise and sedition , that in troubled times they might have greater scope and liberty to their wickednesse . As for himself , hee reposed more upon the known wisedome and prudencie of the Governor and Chancellour , then to give eare to their suspicious surmises . This speech thus uttered , testifying both an acknowledging of the evill past , and a resolution to amend , was it not sufficient to have purged whatsoever errour had been , or might have been thought to have escaped him before ? And certainly it would , if these men had regarded Justice , or the good of the Common-wealth , and had desired to reclaim him from his errours , and winne him to his Countrey . But his so full confidence thus reposing on their credit , was it not enough to have tied them to have kept their credit ? If there had been any spark of humanity or nature of man left in them : and if they had not beene worse then savage beasts . Trust deserveth that we should prove worthy of that trust , and credit procures keeping of credit ; where all humane nature is not extinct , and even simplicity deserveth favour and pitie . Neither can a man that is not altogether given over , and hath not sold himselfe to wickednes choose but favour it , and have compassion of it ; yea though he had been otherwise disposed in the beginning , it would even move any mans heart ( that were indeed a man , and not changed into a beast ) to favour and commiserate , and would have tamed and calmed any former discontentment , and have wrung from them any evill intention which they might ( perhaps ) have conceived before . However , this noble youth goeth on in the innocency of his heart , and that the more quickely , to cut off all occasion of such speeches , and with his brother , and with a few other principall friends goeth directly to the Castle , ( being led as it were and drawne by a fatall destiny ) and both enter , and so come in the power of those their deadly enemies and fained friends . At the very instant comes the Governour ( as was before appointed betwixt them ) to play his part of the Tragedy , that both might bee alike embarked in the action , and beare the envie of so ugly a fact , that the weight thereof might not lie on one alone : yet to play out their treacherous parts , they welcome him most courteously , set him to dinner with the King at the same table , feast him royally , intertain him chearfully , and that for a long time . At last about the end of dinner , they compasse him about with armed men , and cause present a bulls head before him on the boord : the bulls head was in those dayes a token of death ( say our Histories ) but how it hath come in use so to bee taken , and signifie , neither doe they , nor any else tell us , neither is it to be found ( that I remember ) any where in any History , save in this one place : neither can wee conjecture what affinity it can have therewith , unlesse to exprobrate grossenesse , according to the French , and our owne reproaching dull , and grosse wits , by calling him Calves head ( teste de Veau ) but not Bulls head . So that by this they did insult over that innocencie which they had snared , and applaud their owne wisedome that had so circumvented him : a brave commendation indeed , and an honest ! yet I wonder what they meant by entertaining him so well at that time , there was some reason for it why they should have done it by the way , that they might worke out their treason , untill he were within their thongs : but being now within the Castle , and fully in their power , I wonder what it should mean to make him so faire a welcome , to feast him so liberally and solemnely at the Kings table , and from thence to bring him to the shambles : what could have beene their intention ? might they not have conveyed him to some private chamber ? might they not have carried him to the place of execution ? what needed all this processe ? what needed they to have let him see the King at all ? It would seem as if they had not been fully resolved upon the businesse before ; and that their intentions and purposes were not treasonable , but that they tooke occasion to be treasonable from the facility to atchieve it : but our Writers are cleare against that , and say onely it was pre-concluded , when he was written for . It might seeme also that they did this to communicate the matter , or to transferre it altogether upon the King : but he was too young , and purges himselfe by disproving of it . So that I can see no other reason of it , but as the Lion with his prey , or ( to use a more base , yet a more familiar example , and the baser the fitter for them ) as the c●…t with the mouse , which she might devoure immediately , yet it pleaseth her to pl●…y a little with it : So they for their greater satisfaction , and contentment , delight to play out their Sceane ; so strangely ( notwithstanding ) that such processe and uncouth formes of doing might seem to import some mystery , and deeper reach then ordinary : which I confesse is so profound and deep a folly , and mischantnesse , that I can no wise sound it , unlesse it were that the Noblemans place , and his worth forced their wicked hearts to acknowledge it notwithstanding their wickednesse : And although the acknowledging could not prevaile so farre , as to make them leave off the enterprise , yet did it in some sort brangle their resolution , and wrung out this con●…ession of his worth : as all the actions of wickednesse , and all wickednesse in the acting , are full of contradictions , as this same is most clearly : for if this Nobleman was guilty of death , why is he brought into the Kings presence ? why is he set at his table ? If he was not guilty , why was he put to death ? So difficult a thing it is in a lie to keep conformity , either in a lie of actions ( so to speake ) or in a lie of words ! In words it is difficult so to speake that the attentive hearer shall not perceive contrariety : In actions it is impossible that they can be dissembled . This action is a lie , for it saith he is guilty of death ; but their welcomming of him , their setting of him at the table with the King , and their feasting , sayes , he is an innocent , Noble , worthy man ; Indeed onely truth in word and action can accord with it selfe : as it is uniforme , it floweth from unitie , tendeth to it , and endeth in it , and keepeth the taste of the fountain from which it cometh . So they having given this confession of his worth , and again , ( by that ominous signe ) contradicted their confession , must needs be false witnesses however it go . The young Nobleman either understanding the signe as an ordinary thing , or astonished with it as an uncouth thing , upon the sight of the Buls head offering to rise , was laid hold of by their armed men in the Kings presence at the Kings table , which should have beene a Sanctuary to him . And so without regard of King , or any duty , and without any further processe , without order , assise ( or jurie ) without law , no crime objected , he not being convicted at all ; a young man of that age that was not liable to the law in regard of his youth , a Nobleman of that place , a worthy young Gentleman of such expectation , a guest of that acceptation , one who had reposed upon their credit , who had committed himselfe to them , a friend in mind , who looked for friendship , to whom all friendship was promised ; against dutie , law , friendship , faith , honesty , humanitie , hospitalitie ; against nature , against humane society , against Gods Law , against mans law , and the law of nature , is cruelly executed , and put to death : They , ( in despight as it were ) spitting in the face of all duty and honesty , proclaiming ( as farre as lay in them ) there was no dutie to God nor man to bee regarded . And that the measure of their wickednesse thus heaped and shaken , and prest downe might also runne over ; all this was done ( as it should seem ) without the consent , nay , against the will of their King and Soveraigne , who wept at their execution , and forbad them to meddle with his Cousin : the shamelesse men chid him for weeping at the death of his enemy ( as they call him ) during whose life ( say they ) hee needed never to looke for peace , whereas they themselves were his chiefest enemies , and greatest traitours to him , and besides him to God and nature , and to the office of Justice which they bore ; bringing a blot on the one , and the other , and bloud-guiltinesse upon his Crowne , so farre as lay in them . This is that detestable fact never enough to be extracted , which I have laboured indeed to set forth in the owne simple colours , stripping it naked of all farding ( though I confesse no words can equall the wickednesse of it ) that men may learn to detest such things wherein may bee seen what respect they have carried either to justice , to equity , to common peace , or Common-wealth ; that thought it better to root out such a plant , then to dresse and to cherish it ; to ruine such a house rather then to gain it , which they never would have done , if their private pride and avarice had not had the greatest sway with them . I thinke all honest minds should disdain to reade what they gave out before of their love to the publike good , having here so terribly belied it : neither should any man speake of it indifferently without a note of detestation ; neither extenuate it by the Earles simplicity , which seemes to diminish and lessen this execrable perfidie , and cruelty . If this were the wisedome , whereof they had purchased an opinion and name under the former King James the first , and if they had practised such things as this , it hath been a bitter root , and hath brought forth a very bitter fruit , and hath , in all appearance been no small part of the cause of hastening his death , and the emboldning of his enemies unto it , as indeed I finde some of our Writers inclined to say ; for such new men goe commonly about to perswade Princes , that ancient Noblemen are enemies to them , and barres to their absolutenesse , which is it that these men here mean , in saying that the Earle Douglas was an enemy to the King. Not that he bare any ill will to the Kings person ( for that they could no wayes make appeare ) but because he was so great a man : According to that generall rule , that greatnesse in the Nobility is dangerous for the Prince , and as if to be a great man were by infallible consequence to be an enemy to the King. Which maxime I feare they have beaten into his head afterwards , not so much to strengthen and provide for his security , as to draw him to their party for strengthening of themselves for we see all their intentions aime but at their owne particulars ; and so in this they intend nothing else ; onely they colour their particulars with the Pretext of the Kings service , as they doe this wicked fact also . David Douglas the younger brother was also put to death with him , and Malcolme Fleming of Cumbernald his speciall Counsellour . They were all three beheaded in the back Court of the Castle , that lieth to the West . This augments yet their wickednesse , that they execute his brother also , whose age behoved to be lesse then his owne , who was but very young too , as wee have said . These were good Tutors and bringers up of a young Prince , thus as it were to bait him with the bloud of his Nobility , and to imprint such a lesson in his tender minde that they were his enemies . But for conclusion of this matter , concerning these young men , as there was no law laid against them , so is there no History that beareth witnesse that they were guilty of any capitall crime . And Major saith expresly , Apud Annales legi , quod viri illi non crant rei mortis , sed consilio & dolo Gulielmi Crighton , Scotiae Cancellarii haec perpetrata sunt : That is , I reade in our Annales that these men were not guilty of death , but this matter was atchieved by the counsell and fraud of Crighton Chancellour . It is sure the people did abhorre it , execrating the very place where it was done , in detestation of the fact : of which the memory remaineth yet to our dayes in these words . Edinburgh Castle , Towne and Tower , God grant thou sinke for sinne ; And that even for the black dinner Earle Douglas got therein . Now sith these youths were not guiltie , whereof were they not guilty that put them to death ? and with what note of infamy to bee branded ? Though some seeme to blame this innocent young man ( as they cannot deny him to have beene ) with halfe words , as guided by flattery , given to insolency , presumptuous in his Port , yet is there no effect , or affection brought importing either his being addicted to flattery , or that hee was more insolent , presumptuous or arrogant , then became a man of his ranke . But contrary , that he was of a gentle nature , a repulser of flatterie ( now as hee grew in age ) and of due magnificence , such as well became him . Let us therefore account of him so , as one that was singular in respect of his yeares . And let the blame lie fully on his enemies , who shall finde some meeting hereafter from their Cousin ; that they may finde all the house perished not with him , though indeed the punishment was not proportionated to that which they deserved . In Gulielm . & David . fratres in Arce Edinburgena trucidatos . Vestra Sophoclco caedes est digna cothurno , Vestra Thyestea coena cruenta magis , Vos scelere atque dolis , vos proditione necati , Insontes , puerique & patriae proceres : Regius & vestro est foedatus funere vultus : Qui fertur siccas non tenuisse genas . Haeccine ( Rectores ) vestra est prudentia tanta ? Haeccine laudatur justitia ? haecne fides ? Exemplum aeternis nunquam delebile fastis Perstat fraudis atrae , perfidiaeque trucis . In English thus , Your murther may deserve a tragick Muse , Your horrid dinner justly might excuse Thyestes feast , by a more treacherous train Drawn to the axe , more barbarously slain Then was his sonne : your Princes guiltlesse eye Stain'd with the sight , wept at the cruelty . Is this these Rulers wisedome ? this their love To Justice ? this the prudence men approve So much ? O! blacke example fit to be Mark't in eternall scroules of infamy . Of James ( called Grosse James ) the third James , sixteenth Lord , and seventh Earle of Douglas , Lord of Bothwell , Abercorne , and Annandale , the fourth Duke of Turraine , and Lord of Longe-ville . UNto William succeeded his fathers brother , James Lord of Abercorne , in all the lands that were intailed , but Beatrix , sister to the said William , fell here to the rest that were not entailed , which were many ( say our Writers ) specially Galloway , Wigton , Balvein , Ormund , Annandale . This James was called grosse James , because hee was a corpulent man of body : he had to wife Beatrix Sinclair daughter to the Earle of Orknay , but which Earle it is not expressed . To finde it , wee must consider , that from 1 William Sinclair ( the first that came out of France , and married Agnes Dumbarre , daughter to Patrick first Earle of March ) 2 the next was Henry his sonne , who was married to Katherine daughter to the Earle of Stratherne . 3 His sonne called Henry , also married Margaret Gratenay , daughter to the Earle of Marre . 4 This Henries sonne , Sir William passed into Spain , with good Sir James Douglas , who carried the Bruces heart to Jerusalem ; hee was married to Elizabeth Speire daughter to the Earle of Orknay and Shetland , and so by her became the first Earle of Orknay of the Sinclaires . The second Earle was 5 William also , who married Florentina daughter to the King of Denmark , the sixth person , and third Earle was ( his son ) Henry who married Giles ( or Egidia ) daughter to the Lord of Niddisdale . The seventh person and fourth Earle is Sir William , who married Elizabeth Douglas daughter to Archbald Tine-man the first Duke of Turrain ) and sister to this James the grosse . Now this James his wife cannot have been this last Sir Williams daughter , for then she should have been his owne sisters daughter . And therefore she hath been either Henries ( that married Giles Douglas ) or else Sir Williams , who married Florentina ; which of the two I leave it to conjecture ; her great spirit , and high ambition would seem to argue that shee was come of Kings , and near to them : but the Monument in Douglas calleth her daughter to Henry . She bare to this Earle James seven sonnes , and foure daughters . The name of the eldest was William , and the second James , who were Earles of Douglas , both of them by succession , as we shall heare . The third , was Archbald , who married the daughter of John Dumbarre Earle of Murray , brother to George Earle of March , by which means he got the Earledome of Murray . The fourth , named Hugh , was made Earle of Ormond , and had sundry lands given him by the King in Tividale and Rosse . The fifth John was made Lord of Balvenie . The sixth Henry was Bishop of Duncalden . George , the seventh , died before he was fifteen yeares of age , as our Chronicles do witnesse ; but there is no mention of him in the monuments at Douglas , where the rest are set downe by name . As for his foure daughte●…s , 1 Margaret the eldest was married to the Lord Dalkeith . 2 Beairix the second , to John Stuart Duke of Albanie , Constable of Scotland , and Captain of fifty men at armes in France . The third was named Jennat , and was married to the Lord Flemine of Cumbernauld . Elizabeth ( who was the fourth ) died unmarried . This Grosse James his eldest sonne William , partly to hold up the greatnesse of his house , partly by the Ladies owne desire , ( who directly refused to marry any other of the name of Douglas ) married Beatrix Douglas his Cousin : She was called the faire maiden of Galloway : and so by this match the estate of Douglas was preserved intire , and those lands which shee would have been heire to , and divided from it , were kept in their owne hands . This match was made farre against the opinion of the rest of the name of Douglas , who thought it better that she should have been married to some of the house of Angus or Dalkeith , alledging that the house of Douglas was too great already , and that their greatnesse would be the ruine of the house , which maxime although it proveth often true , that too great Dominions under Princes , as also Princes themselves having so large extent of territories , and other republicks , and Common-wealths , when they come to that hugenesse that they cannot easily be governed , do fall , and are overthrown by their owne weight : and the conspiracies and combinations of neighbouring Princes , or States ( who feare , and are jealous of their excessive greatnesse ) or by their Subjects within , either through the Princes jealousie ( who suspects them ) or others envie , who stirre jealousie in the Prince , and draw him to suspect them . And therefore all , both Lordships and Empires , are to be restrained and kept within a mediocritie , and that as well Princes , and Common-wealths , as subjects ; which all men will confesse : but what this mediocritie is , they declare not , neither will they confesse , or doe they ever thinke that they are come to that fulnesse , that there is any danger of exceeding so farre , as to procure their overthrow , or breed any perill . It is said of Augustus Cesar that he intended some moderation of the Empire , and had resolved to have propagate it no further : yet it was doubted upon what ground it was that hee thus resolved ; whether out of prudencie , or of envie toward his successours , that none might goe beyond him , or adde any more to it then he had . And it is indeed a hard matter to perswade men , and perhaps no lesse difficult to prove , for all agree that these inferiour things ( even all of them ) are in a perpetuall fluxe and motion , and that they cannot stand long at a stay , without going either forward or backward , increasing or decreasing . If therefore they goe not forward , they must goe backe ; if they doe not increase , they must decrease : which if it be true , it were better to seek to increase so long as men may , then to take them to a standing , from which they must decrease , if they doe not increase . But whether out of that discourse of reason , his friends of the name of Douglas would thus have perswaded him not to become too great , for feare of falling , or for any particular of their owne , or whether he for this other reason , or rather for the common disposition of men to presse ever forward , I know not , but hee chose to bee great , and take his hazzard . And because the two parties were within the degrees prohibited by the Romane Church ( Brothers children ) he sent to Rome for a dispensation , which being long in coming , and he fearing least the King , and the rest of the name of Douglas would cast all the impediments they could in the way to hinder the match ( which was also reported , and not without ground ) caused hasten the marriage before the dispensation came , and that in Lent too , a time forbidden also , and which is more , on the friday before Pasch , called commonly Good-friday . This was thought ominous , and the unhappy event confirmed this opinion . They were married in the Church of Douglas . Some write that this marriage was procured and made by the young man himselfe , after the decease of his father . However , this was a speciall cause of dissention , and division amongst those of the name of Douglas . For the actions of this grosse James , wee have no particulars recorded in Histories , either in his brothers time , or his nephewes time , or now when he cometh to be Earle himselfe . There is no mention at all made of him , whether he did any thing for to revenge the murther of his nephewes by Creighton and Levingston : belike as he hath been corpulent , so hath his corpulensie caused a dulnesse of spirit , as commonly it doth . Some write that he was Warden of all the Marches , and his Monument at Douglas agreeth with them , and sayes that hee was a great justiciary . Others write that he was no ill man , that hee entertained no disordered wicked men , but yet he did not represse them sharply enough , and therefore was suspected by the King , and disliked by many : hee died in Abercorne within two yeares , or not three ( sayes the manuscript ) after the marriage of his sonne , which hath not been long in the making . Wee may ghesse it most probably to have beene not fully three yeares , and so that he died in the yeare 1443. Hee was buried in Douglas , where on his Tombe he is called ( Magnus Princeps ) and amongst other Titles , Lord of Liddi●…dale , and Jedward Forrest : his wife is styled Domina Aveniae , Lady of Avendale . His Epitaph there is yet to be seen thus , Hic jacet magnus & potens Princeps , Dominus Jacobus de Douglas , Comes de Douglas , Dominus Annandiae , & Gallovidiae , Liddaliae , & Jedburg-Forrestiae , & Dominus de Balveniâ , magnus Wardanus Regni Scotiae versus Angliam , &c. Qui obiit vicesimo quarto die mensis Martii , Anno Domini millesimo quadringentesimo quadragesimo tertio . 1443. His Wives is thus : Hic jacet Domina Beatrix de Sinclaire , ( filia Domini Henrici Comitis Orcadum , Domini de Sinclaire , ) Comitissa de Douglas , & Aveniae , Domina Gallovidiae . His Childrens thus : Hae sunt proles inter predictos Dominum , & Dominam generatae . 1 Dominus aGulielmus primò genitus , & haeres praedicti Domini Jacobi , qui successit ad totam haereditatem predictam . 2 Jacobus secundò genitus , Magister de Douglas . 3 Archibaldus tertiò genitus , Comes Murray . 4 Hugo quarto genitus , comes Ormundiae . 5 Johannes quinto genitus , Dominus Balveniae . 6 Henricus sexto genitus . Margarita uxor Domini de Dalkeith : Beatrix uxor Domini de Aubignia . Joneta uxor Domini de Biggar , & Cumbernauld . Elizabetha de Douglas , quarta filia erat . In English thus , Here lies a great and powerfull Prince , Lord James Douglas , Earle of Douglas , Lord of Annandale , and Galloway , Liddesdale and Jedbrough-Forrest , and Lord of Balveny , great Warden of the Kingdome of Scotland towards England , &c. Hee died the 24. day of March , in the yeare 1443. His Wives is thus , Here lies the Lady Beatrix Sinclair , daughter of Henry Lord of the Isles , Lord Sinclair , Countesse of Douglas and Evendale , Lady Galloway . Their Children . These are the children betwixt the said Lord and Lady : 1 Lord William his eldest sonne , and hei ●…e to the said Lord James , who succeeded to all the foresaids lands . 2 James the second sonne , Master of Douglas . 3 Archbald , the third sonne , Earle of Murray . 4 Hugh , the fourth sonne , Earle of Ormund . 5 John the fifth sonne , Lord of Balvenie . 6 Henry , the sixth sonne . Margaret , wife to the Lord of Dalkeith : Beatrix , wife to the Lord Aubignie : Jenet , wife to the Lord of Biggar and Cumbernald : Elizabeth Douglas was the fourth daughter . Jacobus Crassus , Duglasii crassique mihi cognomina soli , Conveniunt : O quam nomina juncta male . James the grosse . To be a Douglas , and be grosse withall , You shall not finde another 'mongst them all . Of William slain in Stirling Castle , the seventh William , and eighth Earle of Douglas , the sixteenth Lord , and fifth Duke of Turrain , &c. UNto James succeeded his sonne William , a man of another mettall , and resembling more his Grandfather , and Cousin , ( who was put to death in Edinburgh Castle ) then his father , who did remember , and imitate more his Cousins diligence , then his fathers negligence , for hee endeavoured by all means to entertaine and augment the grandure of the house by bonds , friendship , and dependances ; retaining , renewing , and increasing them : and therefore his marriage of his Cousin Beatrix is attributed to him , and is thought to be his owne doing , and not his fathers . Upon his first coming to be Earle , his first care was to establish some certain order for his affaires : for which purpose hee conveened his whole friends at Dum●…reis , made choice of his Counsellours , createth his Officers for his rents and casualties , and settleth a constant order in his house . Great was that house ( as hath been said ) and doubtlesse it was nothing diminished by him , but rather increased by the accession of his fathers estate ( which he had ere he was Earle ) and his wife : which being added unto the old Patrimony of the house , made it to surpasse all others that were but Subjects : for it had beene ever growing from hand to hand , since the time of Lord James slain in Spaine , continually , who had the Lordship of Douglas onely at the first . To it was added the Lordship of Galloway by Archbald , slain at Halidoun-hill . By Archbald the Grimme , the Lordship of Bothwell . By Archbald the third ( called Tine-man ) the Dutchie of Turrain , and Lordship of Longe-ville . Annandale , and the Earledome of Wigton , by Archbald the fourth : and now the Lordship of Abercorn , by Grosse James . So that his revenue hath beene huge at this time , as appeares also by the ranke hee ever carried , as second in the Kingdome . His dependance and following may bee judged by these his Lordships , and estate , and for his other friendship , there were divers houses of the Douglasses ; as Angus , Morton , Drumlanrigge . By his alliance he had Aubigny , and the Lord Fleming of Cumbernauld , who had married his sister . By his mother , the Earle of Orknay ▪ by his wife , at ( Beatrix ) the house of Crawford , of which her mother was a daughter , beside the old friendship that was ever betwixt them . And this may be seen by History , who list to observe it , whereof more may be found by a more accurate disquisition . Thus enriched , thus waited on , thus followed , thus served , thus underpropped , and sustained by wealth , friendship , dependance , alliance , and kindred , his power and greatnesse was such , as was not matched under the Prince by any in this Kingdome . But here is the maleheure , the Principalls of his owne name ( Angus and Morton ) assisted him not , but divided themselves from him ; and either were not his friends , or even became enemies , as wee shall heare hereafter . What the occasion thereof was , is not directly mentioned : some thinke it was the discontentment they had conceived at his marriage , either because they accounted it unlawfull , or because some of them would have had her to themselves , which is the more likely , or in respect of their kindred with the King , who was indeed induced ( though not yet ) to think hardly of him ; or out of emulation of his greatnesse , as an hinderance to their growth , which was Bishop Kennedies opinion to his brother , the Earle of Angus : and so it falleth out often , where a decay is to come upon a house , it first divides from , and within it selfe , yet that was but an insensible point at this time , his owne greatnesse being such as would scarce suffer him to finde the losse ; standing as it were not by any friendship , but meerely of himselfe , and upon his bottome . At the very first , when hee entred to the Earledome , he entred also ( as hereditary ) to the enmitie of the two grand guiders of the time Levingston and Creighton , with whom the hatred tooke beginning in his Uncles time , and was thereafter traiterously , and cruelly prosecuted by them , on his two Cousins : it continued , though coldly , in his fathers time , and was now quickned and revived by himselfe . They would needs lay the blame of whatsoever disorder happened in the Countrey upon him ; not onely of what fell out in the borders ( where hee commanded , and might command indeed ) but even in the Highlands also , that which John Gorme of Athole did ( who fought with the Laird of Ruthven , and would have rescued a thiefe out of his hands ( being apprehended by him as Sheriffe ) if hee had not beene defeated , and thirtie of his men slain by Ruthven ) they would have it to bee thought that the Earle Douglas forsooth had an hand in it . But it is well that our Writers say , it was but thought so ▪ and thought it had beene said so by his enemies , there is no necessitie to beleeve it was so , for they had done him more wrong , and dealt more treacherously with him , then to make such a report for me , it soundeth not in my eares , that it had so long a foote , or that John Gorme could not doe such a thing without the Earle of Douglas , or that the Earle Douglas would meddle with such a matter . This I thinke , that in his owne bounds he would suffer none to acknowledge the Governours , which was his Uncles course , as we heard , seeing he was himselfe to bee answerable for them . It was his fathers way also ( though more coldly according to his naturall disposition ) as may bee gathered of that which is said , that he repressed not theeves , though he entertained them not : which is as much as to say , as he was not Authour , or occasion of their theft , yet he being no Magistrate himselfe , and others having taken the government upon them , he would let them beare the weight of their owne charge in executing thereof , and would not help them therein by restraining any . And that so much the rather , because having murthered his Nephew , he could not with credit employ himselfe to ease them of their burthen by his assistance : he did them no hurt , he could not with honour do them any good . So hee lets them alone , doing to them neither ill nor good , then which I thinke he could not do lesse . And where just cause of enmity was , how could it be more modestly used ? Except they would have had him ( after such a vilanous fact ) to go creeping under their feet ( as we say ) which the meanest man will not doe after the smallest injurie . And even where there is no injury , unlesse men reape some benefit , they will suffer others to do their owne part , and not help them , where they have no interest either as belonging to their charge , or from whence they may gather some profit . It is true , he onely could doe that service , and there was no ability in them that had the charge , but he was not obliged to supply their inability : and why should they have taken on them ? or why should the States ( which I thinke did not , but that it was done by faction ) have laid it upon them , that were not able to discharge it ? This was not wisely done , and it is the very point of the errour in the Estates ( so called ) and the ground of all the inconveniences that fell out , for they chose men that had not power to discharge the Office , and such as had , did let them do it alone ; and withall ( perhaps ) disdained their preferment , as being without merit , for wee see no merit in them by true vertue : hereon arose discontents , then grudges , then crossings , then blamings , and reproaching in words and deeds , growing at last to an open enmitie . Of such great importance is it , to make right choice of men for employments . And such wisedome is requisite in the choosers ( bee it Estates , be it Princes ) not to follow affection , but to consider worth and ability rightly , and to employ accordingly : which if it be not done , it carrieth with it infinite inconveniences , & hath troubled many Estates , yea , ruined them ; and it must needs be so . Happy State , happy Prince , yea , happy he whosoever , that having a necessity to imploy others ( as who hath not ) imployeth according to reason , and not affection , or hath his affections ruled by reason ! which if hee doe not , it shall disgrace the imployer , breed disdain to him that is imployed , and bring contempt upon both , which will burst out with occasion , and not long be curbed , and kept in , thought it lurke for a time . It may bee this Earle of Douglas hath gone further then his father in showing his contempt of these justice-bearers . It may be hee hath borne with the Bordermen , and been more slack in repressing of them , ( for his father repressed them , though not enough ) because hee had intention to imploy them ; being more sensible of the wrong done to his Cousins , & had a greater eye to revenge it , and therefore was loth to controule these men of service , further then the mere necessity of his place did require at his hands , whereof the rule ( in the eyes of the people ) was to save all men from that misery as farre as he could : in his owne eyes , the rule which he propounded to himselfe , it was to protect his friends and dependers ; and for his adversaries , to rejoyce perhaps at their smart , if not to procure it : as for neutralls , to leave it to the Magistrate to redresse what is amisse , not perceiving by that mean , he doth more hurt the Countrey , then his enemies , and wounds his owne credit more then their reputation : and therefore ▪ he lost more by furnishing them with some ground of obloquie , offending the people and honest men , then he gained by the hurt of his adversaries , or favour of broken men . Nothing is more popular , yea nothing is more profitable then justice , ( say all Writers ) not to mean and private men onely , who incurre the danger of law by injustice , but even to great men , even to Princes , who if they incurre not the danger of lawes , being placed above the reach thereof , yet doe they lose the most profitable instrument of all their actions , by which they must needs worke , and without which they cannot , the hearts of men : It feareth me , too many think it enough to have their hands , to have their bodies at command , but let no man thinke he can have their bodies , if hee have not their hearts : neither their heart , if hee have it not indeed , in a high measure of affection . Who hath no measure of affection , can have no action of the body to any purpose , and a slacke affection produceth but a slack action , as it hath ever proved . So that in effect , policy hath that chiefe object to worke on the affections of men , and that not to deceive , or force them ( for neither of these can worke well and long . ) Neither is it sufficient that a man see not a present evill , as a Prince a present insurrection , a great man a present losse of his followers , and favourers ( which falleth out sometime , but not alwayes . ) Oftentimes it is like a canker , working by peece-meale , insensibly , from degree to degree upon the affections , til it hath consummated the worke of disgrace of the party it seazeth on , and winded their favours out of the hearts of men . As commonly mens actions that procure it are of the same sort , not all in an instant , or at one time , but one ungratious fact cometh after another , and another again upon the necke of that , and so forth . This therefore is so much the more diligently to be taken heed of , and eschewed in the beginning ; or if any errour escape , to be taken up and recompensed by amendment , or some other gratefull action importing as much favour , as the errour did disdain : neither must the affections of men be suffered to coole , languish , and to bee eaten up at unawares , till at last they utterly decay and perish . Thus ( we may see here ) he hath not been well advertised by those of his house of Douglas , which before were the most esteemed , the best beloved , and favoured universally almost by the whole Countrey . But now , while as they would trouble the Governours , and let their inability b●… seen , and for that end either beare with theeves , or suffer them , they are not aware , that by this mean they suffer an ill opinion of themselves to creep into mens minds , and that love of the people to diminish by peece-meal , for the space now of three or foure mens lives . And whereas they were wont with their heritage to succeed to a generall favour of the people , now on the contrary , they succeed to a grudge , and ill opinion , and so an universall dislike , which at last hath done away all that wonted love , and turned it into hatred ; which did greatly advance and further the plots of their enemies against them , and made that their greatnesse odious , that was accustomed to be favoured . It is very true , that the men against whom he set himselfe , had used no good means , abused there Offices , abused their Countrey , and the name of the King , and Common-wealth for their owne particular ; yet he should not have used ill means , no not against ill men ; and the bare name of authority is of weight in the eyes of men , as the name of theft odious ; from any countenancing whereof , Noblemen should be farre , as also from seeming to rise against any manner of Authority , though Authority bee ▪ put even in mean mens hands , as these were ▪ chiefly when the opposers of Authority can make no other end appeare , but their own private , and that blotted with the enormities of broken men : yet what shall be given to a just anger ? what unto the time ? what unto youth ? all these plead pardon , if not approbation ; The rather for that he taketh up himself from that sort of doing , so soone as hee can get a right King , to whom he might have accesse , and to whom he might yeeld with honour which was ere long . The next yeare , 1444. the King taketh the government on himselfe directly . Thither immediately the Earle Douglas concludeth to addresse himselfe , and by all good means to obtain his favour ; to satisfie the people , to satisfie all men that were offended , and fully to change that course he had before followed . Certainly repentance is worth misdeed : and it may bee seen , that the force of enmity hath driven him into these faults , which as soone as he can , he layeth aside . So coming with a great company to Stirlin , he deales with the King by the intercession of such as were about him ; and finding that he was appeased , goeth on , and puts himself and his estate in his Princes will , partly purging himselfe of the crimes past , partly confessing them ingeniously ; and telling him , that what ever estate he should have from that time forth , hee would owe it to the Kings clemency , and not ascribe it to his owne innocency : That if the King would be contented to be satisfied by good Offices , hee would endeavour not to be short of any in fidelitie , observance , diligence , and good will towards him : That in repressing and punishing of theeves ( whose actions his enemies laid upon him ) there should no man bee more severe , nor more carefull : That he was come of a house that was growne up , not by doing injuries to the weaker , but by defending the weaker and common people of Scotland by arms . Certainly a true conclusion , & undeniable by his greatest enemies . But I have thought good to set downe all as it was conceived : for whether there was any fault or not , his submission was great , and his repentance sufficient to purge it whatsoever it were . Such is his respect to his soveraigne Prince ; and such the force of authority rightly placed in the due owner thereof . And such was also the force of truth in his speech , that the King , understanding that it was true in his predecessour , and hoping it would be true in himselfe , moved also by the private commendation of his Courtiers , not onely passed by , and forgave what ever had been amisse in his life before , but also received him into his most inward familiarity , and did communicate unto him the secrets of his counsell : Neither was the Earle unworthy thereof for his part , but behaved himselfe so well , that within a short time hee acquired the favour of the King by obedience ; of his Courtiers , and servants , by liberalitie , and of all men by gentlenesse , courtesie , and modestie , and put the people in hope that he would prove a meeke and sober-minded man. The wiser sort doubted ( say our Writers ) whither so sudden a change would turne . But why should wee thinke it a change ? or if it were a change , it was very casuall , very apparant , and nothing to be wondred at : for it is this in effect : he had been untoward to base men , why should he not yeeld to his King ? hee had slighted the shadow of authority in them , why should he not acknowledge and reverence the beames of it in his Prince ? he had beene froward to his enemies , why not gentle to his friends ? he had sought to make them smart that wronged him , why not cherish those that did him good offices ? he had warred on them , that had warred against him : why should hee not keep friendship with those who kept friendship with him ? certainly , these are not changes , neither of nature , nor of manners , but are commonly ( wee fee ) in one and the same nature , and proceed from one and the same cause , which is greatnesse of courage , and regard of due honour . The greater despiser of basenesse , the greater reverence of true greatnesse , the greater repiner against compulsion : the gentler and calmer being used courteously : the harder enemy , the faithfuller and sweeter friend : so that wee may suspect these mens wisedome , that did so farre mistake his true courage , and accounted that a change , which was but a continuation of his inbred disposition . Two men are designed to have taken fray at the matter , whose consciences were guilty of what they had deserved : Alexander Levingston , and William Creighton , not for the change of his manners , but for the change of his credit . They had traiterously slain three innocent Noblemen , his two Cousins , and Malcolme Fleming . They had kept himself back from his Prince , and his Prince from him , and were sory that ever they should have met in a friendly sort . They would have been glad to have blowne the bellowes of dissention , to have irritated the one , and misinformed the other , made their owne quarrell the Kings , and so have caused the King and Countrey to esteem of it . They were now disappointed of that , and the Earle had accesse to informe the King of their misdemeanour in their Office , and to move him to call them in question for it . They knew hee would remember the wrong done to his Cousins : they knew how unable they were to answer for many of their facts , and therefore they retire themselves from Court : Levingston to his owne house Creighton to the Castle of Edinburgh which hee had still in his keeping . Neither was the Earle Douglas negligent in this oecasion , that was thus offered to seeke justice by law and by justice , to be avenged of his enemies for the wrong done by them against law . Wherefore he diligently informed the King from point to point , of their misbehaviour in their Office : how they had abused him , abused his rents to their owne private use , and moved him to call them to an account thereof , whereupon being summoned to a certain day , they durst not compeir ; but to set a faire face on the matter , they answered by Procuratours , or by letters : That they were ready to give an account of their government , that they had beene very carefull of the King and Countrey , desired nothing so much as to give an account thereof before equall Judges . But for the present , when the minds of men were preoccupied with the favour of their enemies , and all accesse closed with armed men , the King behoved to pardon , that they did eschew not to come to judgment , but to come in the danger of their deadly enemies , and keep their lives for better times : when the Captain of theeves , being removed from the Kings side ( which they had of times done before ) they would approve their innocency to the King and all honest men . These reproaches , and brags touched , and were meant of the Earle Douglas . Him it was they called Captain of theeves , because of the border men , of whom many were his followers . That they removed him often before was idle boasting : for he had abstained to come to the King , so long as the King was in their custody , so long as he was in the Castle of Edinburgh , where they might have murthered him , as they did his Cousins : That he was their enemy , he denied not , and had just cause so to be : but to take that excuse from them , he gave them assurance he should not proceed against them any wayes , but by order of law ; and offered for that purpose to goe from Court , till they should come to it in safetie . And to meet their reproach ( of captain of theeves ) and their boasting of the just administration of their Offices , hee was ready to prove that they themselves were theeves , that they had stollen the Kings revenues , and distributed to their friends , and converted them to their owne particular use , and that they had traiterously against justice murthered his Cousins , whereof he besought the King to grant him justice ; and so a new charge was given out , and another day appointed for them to compeir . Which being come , and they not compeiring , they were denounced rebells , in a Convention kept at Stirlin the fourth of November , and their goods and moveables confiscated . Thereafter John Forrester of Corstorphin ( a depender of the Earle Douglas ) is sent with a power of men , to intromet with their goods ; who having received their houses , some he razed , some he manned with new forces , and provision : and so without resistance he returned , laden with great spoil . Hee was scarce retired , when Creighton assembled his friends and followers so suddenly as none could imagine , furrowed the lands of Corstorphin , together with the lands of Strabrock , Abercorn , and Black-nesse , and amongst other goods , he drave away a race of mares , that the Earle Douglas had brought from Flanders , and were kept in Abercorn , doing more harme then he had received . This may seem strange to any man ; neither do our Histories sufficiently cleare it , either where he got these forces , or whither he carried the goods . They insinuate , that he was aided and assisted under-hand by Bishop Kennedie , and the Earle of Angus and Morton . Angus was the Kings Cousin germain , sonne to his fathers sister , and by her , brother to the Bishop : Morton had married the Kings owne sister . But of these , the Bishops power lay beyond Forth ; ( for he was Archbishop of Saint Andrewes ) and the Earle of Angus further ( beyond Tay ) : so it is hard to conceive , either how they could suddenly assemble to their folks , or that they could conveene many ( except such as Angus had on the South side of Forth in Liddisdale , Jedward Forrest , and Bonkle ; likewise Mortons lands and friends were ( most part ) on the same side of Forth ) to make assistance against the Earle Douglas . But how ever apparantly , they did it not openly ; and this , it was against order , against authority , and against Law : and if the Earle Douglas had done it , it would assuredly have been called an open Rebellion against the King , theft , oppression , presumption , arrogancie , insolencie , and faction , as we heard it was before , when he contemned the Governours onely , and as it will be called ( perhaps ) hereafter . If men alledge , that the King was guided with the Earle Douglas counsell , and his name used to a particular onely : tell me ( I pray you ) was there ever any thing more formally than this against Creighton ? And if the Earle Douglas his particular was in it , what then ? how many actions of justice are otherwise done without instigations of private men ? without the mixture of their cause ? without their particular suiting ? and particular insisting ? and if it be lawfull to any to seek justice for his own particular , the Earle Douglas his particular was such , as very well became him to insist in the wrong so manifest , the murther so vile and traiterous . And if that which is done against the lawes shall not be accompted wrong , nor esteemed to touch the King , because parties have their particular in that law , none or few things shall be accounted to be done against the king , or against law ; for there is almost ever some particular joyned : and the same hath been and wil be the Earle Douglas his case . This therefore cannot be accounted innocencie ; yea no lesse then open violence , and plaine rebellion , and presumption against the Earle , clad now with justice and lawes , and against the king as protector , and Patron of justice . No marvell then if the Earle Douglas was offended herewith , both for his own cause , whom the losse touched so neere , and for such manifest contempt of the King , and if therefore he seeke to be avenged thereof . But there was a different forme to be used , according to the different actours ; of which we se●… there are two sorts , Creighton and Levingston were open enemies , open actours ; they themselves obnoxious to the law ; against them the law will strike , and so he proceeded with them : he besieges openly Creighton in the Castle of Edinburgh , and no question he had taken from him before whatsoever was without it . The others , not open enemies , and actours themselves , they were but secret stirrers up , abetters , and assisters of his enemies ; and among them Bishop Kennedie was the chiefe plotter and deviser ; the law could not well be had against him ; he must be met with in his owne way , he had done besides the law , he must be met with besides the law : he had done disadvowedly , he must be met with disadvowedly . Therefore he writes to the Earle of Crawford , who with Alexander Oglebee of Innerwharitie gathered a great hoast , entred , life , and without resistance spoiled the Bishops lands , either because they could not get himself , or because they had a greater minde to the bootie , then to the quarrell . The Bishop using his own weapons , curseth them ; but they made small reckoning of his curses . Neverthelesse shortly after there fell variance between Crawfords eldest sonne ( the master of Crawford ) and the Oglebees about the Bailliarie of Arbroth : for the Monks had given it from the Master to Innerwharitie , and hereupon having assembled their forces on both sides , they were readie to fight it out . But the Earle of Crawford ( having gotten advertisement ) came into the field to have composed the busines , and trusted they would have respected him , and not have offered him any violence , he entred in between the two parties ; where having stayed his sonnes companie ; he was going over to speak with the Oglebees to have brought matters to a parlee , and treatie . In the meane time one that neither knew what he was , nor what his intent was , runnes at him with a spear and slayes him : hereupon the battells joyning the victorie fell to the Master of Crawford , there being 500. slaine of the Oglebees side , Alexander Oglebee taken , and the Earle of Huntly escaping on horsback . This victorie was obtained chiefly by the valour of the Cliddisdale men , of whom the Earle Douglas had sent about 100 to assist the Master of Crawford . This Master of Crawford was now Earle ( his father being slaine ) and was called Earle Beardie , of whom there will be mention made hereafter , he being that Earl with whom Douglas is said to have entred into league ; though we see there was friendship betwixt them now , the Earles Ladie Beatrix being a sister daughter of the house of Crawford , besides the old friendship that had been ( ever since the first Earles time ) betwixt the two houses . In the mean time the siege of the Castle of Edinburgh ( where Creighton was shut up ) had now continued some six or seven moneths , from the midst of July ( as appeareth ) unto the beginning of February in the next year : for there being a Parliament called , to be held at Perth , it was removed to Edinburgh , that the siege might not be interrupted , and sate down in the beginning of February 1445. The siege lasted two or three moneths after , which makes in all some nine moneths , or thereby : at last both parties ( the besieger and the besieged ) being wearied , the Castle was surrendred to the King , on condition that Creighton should be pardoned for all his offences which he had committed against the King , and should be suffered to depart life safe , which was granted unto him : Our Writers term them the offences which he was said to have committed against the King : As if they should say , There was no offence indeed done to the King : And more plainly a little after , as in all contention , he who is most strong would seem to be most innocent : which sayings are to be judiciously considered , and accurately weighed , whereof we have spoken before : But if they will needs have it so , we will not be contentious . Thus Creighton , not so much hurt , as terrified , escaped due punishment by meanes of the Castle , which could not easily be taken , but by composition . Whether this was through the impatience of the Earle Douglas , that would not take leasure to wait on the siege , untill they should have been forced to yeeld for want of victuals ; Or whether Creighton hath had some 〈◊〉 friends at Court , who did make use of this occasion to work his safetie , there is no mention . But Levingstone leapt not so dry-shod , being no lesse guilty of his Cousins murther . The Earle had bent his just indignation against him also , and caused summon him to the Parliament of Edinburgh , together with his sons , James and Robert Levingstons ( this Robert had been Thesaurer ) and David Levingston his Cousin : His friends also , Robert Bruce of Arth , with James and Robert Dundasses . The Lord Levingston himself , with the two Dundasses , were convict , forfeited , and condemned to perpetuall prison in the Castle of Dumbarton . The other three , James , and Robert his sons , and David his Cousin , and Bruce also , were execute : What the crimes were that were laid to their charge , whereof this difference of punishment did arise , it is not written , either by the old or late Historians . This appears , that it hath been no particular of the Earle Douglas ( of which the father was most guiltie ) and that their Processe hath not been guided and ruled by him , nor framed according to his spleen , which would have aimed most at the old man , as accessary to the death of his Cousins , whereas we see he escapes with imprisonment onely : His sons are hardlier used , being put to death : So that it must needs have been for some other crime , whereof the acts of Parliament that are extant in print makes no mention , or particular relation , as the forme is ; and James Levingston in his speech at his death purgeth himself , as free of all true crime , what by being innocent of some , & having obtained a remission of others ; yet he mentions not what was alledged against him ; wherefore we must leave it as uncertaine . Some conjecture , that it was for keeping of some castles , and strong houses , and not rendring them to the King being summoned , against an act of Parliament made by Creighton before , by which act Creighton also himselfe was forfeited afterward ; but we know no ground for that opinion . They alledged also another act ( which only is extant ) the other not being extant ( and may seeme to sound something that way ) made in the second Parliament , in the yeare 1488. against the re-setting of rebells in castles ; which imports no keeping of houses after they be charged , or summonedto render by the Kings officers ; but only commands to arrest their persons , or to take surety , and baile for them that they do no harme : Neither is there any penaltie ( much lesse forfeiture ) annexed thereto ; only it sayes , they shall be forced and constrained to do it . This execution of the Levingstons is cast into the yeare 1447. ( after that Queen Marie , the Duke of Ghelders Daughter was married to the king ) at which time it is said , that Creighton was also forfeited , notwithstanding he had been Embassadour in procuring and making that marriage . The cause of his forfeiture is given out to be the keeping of the castle of Creighton when it was summoned and charged by an Herauld of armes , according to , & by vertue of the same act forsaid : But we have already spoken of that act , and we finde no mentionof any Parliament that year . Neither from the year 1443. until the year 1449. wherein he should have been forfeited . And this we observe , that judgment may be adhibited in the reading of those , and such like things , however Creightou thus dashed , the Levingstons some executed , some imprisoned , forfeited , and condemned , there seemed to be some compensation of the murder of his Cosins , also their assister Bishop Kennedie received his part , so it is said that he had much ado to save himself , by leaving h●…s goods a prey to them that pleased to take them . These things are imputed to the Earle Douglas as faults : why I cannot tell , unlesse we require of him that exact philosophicall disposition , to be free from all humour of revenging , which few have brought with them that have been conversant in the affaires of State , or common wealth . No not these who have been accounted as Philosophers , and that very precise ones , such were both the Cato●…s , whose common ordinary course was to be avenged of their enemies by publick accusations , and pursute of law : wherein if there be a fault , let there be no law , that permitts it , yea that allowes it , and exhorts unto it ; it is recorded of Cato called Censorius , that having met a young man in the street , who had accused his fathers enemie , and gotten him condemned , he cherished him and embraced him , saying , It was farre better so to celebrate the funerall of his father with the teares and condemnation of his adversaries , than to sacrifice with kids and Lambes . It is naturall to men to resent injuries , and as naturall to seek the repairing of them ; and he is excused who recompenses a wrong received ; and he is accounted also just who does it byorder and modestie , that hath patience to sute it , and abide the delayes of a Court-sute , it being a mean to purge blood out of the land . Neither does either Philosophie , or Religion forbid it but ; by the contrary , commands & allowes it . Only the caution is , that the minde of the pursuer be voide of malice , and his eye set upon justice : of which intention the searcher of hearts can only be the competent judge . If some Imperfections , and weaknesse of nature do mingle with the action ; we must not alwayes for that either utterly reject the action , or condemne the authour . But we must acknowledge that as right , which is right , and pardon the imperfection , which none wantes . We must not exclaime against it as if it were nothing but partialitie : Nor against the doer , as meerly vindictive , cheifely in a fact so very enormous , as the murthering of his Cosins was , wherefore if we shall without partialitie in our selves consider this whole pursuit , and give it the right name , we shall call it kindnesse to his kinsmen : equitie , justice , modestie , and patience , rather than wrong and malice : and praise him for his kindnesse , and faithfulnesse in friendship in revenging their quarrells , which hath been his very inclination , as will appeare hereafter yet not only this his just pursuite , but every thing that fell out in the countrie is laid upon him to brand him : as the slaughter of James Stuart by the Boydes , and the like : the taking of the castle of Hales by Patrick Dumbarre , which he is said to have taken , and killed the keeper thereof : because the Lord Hales had then received the Queen mother into the castle of Dumbarre : who had fled hither to eschew the troubles of the times . The Earle Douglas within a few dayes after got the castle of Hales againe , on condition to suffer the said Patrick Dumbar and his men to depart with their lives safe . Likewise he is said to have constrained Sir James Stuart ( the blacke knight of Lorne ) who had maried the Queen mother , to goe out of the countrie , upon some speeches uttered by the said Sir James against the ill government of the affairs of the kingdom : But neither is it set down what the words were , neither what sort of constraint was used towards him . This Sir James as he was sailing into France , his ship was taken by the Flemings , and he himself died soone after . The next year ( which was 1448 ) there fell out warre with England , and incursions made on both sides by the Borderers : where the Earle Douglas began again after so long an intermission ( to wit from the entrie of King James the first in the yeare 1423. the space of twenty five years ) to take upon him the managing of the warre , which his house had ever done , and he now also discharging with honour , and following the footsteps of his predecessours , for Dumfreis being burnt by the Earle of Shreusburie ( or Salisburie ) Dumbar spoiled by the Earle of Northumberland , James Douglas ( the Earles brother ) burnt Anwick in England , where having gotten great store of bootie , and many prisoners , as the others had done in Scotland , being almost equall , the & prisoners goods , & were changed byconsent & agreement of the captains . But this was onlya small assay before a greater matter , which followed this same year , as should seem , yet there was some cessation for a while , and truce taken for seven years . In which time the Earle who ( as we see ) was so zealous in prosecuting the revenge of the wrong done to his Cosins , showes another propertie no lesse commendable , which is to be as kind and forward to advance his friends as he had been to quell his enemies . For the same year James Dumbar ( Hollinshed calles him John ) Earle of Murray being dead , first he obtaines the foresaid Earles daughter ( who was Neece to King Robert the second by his daughter ) for his third Brother Archbald ; then the title of Earl of Murray from the King ; notwithstanding that she whom his brother had married was but the youngest sister , the elder being married before her fathers death unto James Creighton , of whom the house of Fenderet is descended ; how it came that he was preferred before 〈◊〉 , who married the elder sister ; whether because the titles of Earles do not go by succession unto the heirs of Line , but by the pleasure of the Prince , and that he had more court then Creighton , or whether there was some respect also had to the kinred , or what ever cause there were of it , it gave matter of speech to his enviers , and to our histories it hath furnished matter of Censure , as a wrong done to the elder sister , to whom they think it belonged : he obtained also his fourth brother Hugh to be made Earle of Ormond ; and his fifth brother John to be Lord of Balvenie , and Baron thereof , with many rich , and fruitfull lands . In which actions of his , when men can finde no ground of alledging that he did any wrong , they blame him as immoderate in augmenting too much the greatnesse of his house . Wherein I cannot but praise his kindnesse and carefulnesse , in preferring of his friends by all lawfull meanes , which is a dutie standeth with wisdom , and a right wisdom : neither was it ever , or can it be ever justly discommended , where there is no injurie committed . Whereas , not to do it ( if a man be able ) and not to seem to do so , proceeds either of carelesnes , or that which is worse , wickednesse , selfe love , and in some , envifulnesse , and malignity , even to their owne friends . Which kind of doing , deserves no commendation , when it is but carelesnesse , farre lesse when it is done of malice : last of all , when men doe not onely not labour to advance their friends , but even endeavour to keep them under , by a point of wisedome which they thinke very deep , that they may remain servants to them ; fearing that if they come to any preferment , they would not be so ready to serve them , and might perhaps grow up above them . This humour , as it is malignant , and an ill disposition , so it is no great good wisedome , whatsoever subtilty it may seem to have in it ▪ for they advert not , that they hinder them , who would stand them in stead , and cut them short in power to be steadable to them , and so cut down the props of their owne standing , and such as would support them in their need & necessity . And while they feare that their friends out-strip them , they give place and matter to their enemies to overtop them both . Now the feare which they apprehend of their friends neglecting their duetie to them , is very farre off , and if ever it come to passe , it should not be envied , providing that kindnesse remain among them , though they should grow greater then they ; and howbeit they answered not our expectation in kindnesse ( except it were joyned with extremitie of wickednesse , and perhaps not then neither ) ought we to repent , or repine ? it being much more tolerable then to bee overmatched by an enemy , as it often falleth out , and can hardly choose but fall out , when a house standeth alone by it selfe , having no honest member thereof to underprop and uphold it . Besides , while men thus seeke to make their friends altogether servile to them , their friends perceiving it ( as it can hardly but bee perceived , what ever cunning bee used to cover it ) are the lother to serve ; as mens nature is , in whom love-service ( questionlesse ) is the best : yea , onely fruitfull service . And therefore they will either repine the more , or withdraw themselves altogether , if they bee of any spirit ; and if they bee not , their service is not worth having . So that men lose even their service ( which they so effect ) and sometimes turn it by unkindnesse , into unkindlinesse and enmitie , which hath ever been found by experience : neither did ever any house flourish so well , or any man in any house , as when they concurred with one minde to a mutuall helpe one of another : and none ever prospered so well as hee , who used and shewed his care ( not to keepe backe his friends , or to neglect them ) but to advance them , and take their businesse to heart as his owne . This is a true patterne of kindnesse , and no lesse of true wisedome , howsoever men may subtillize as they please , which is seriously , and sincerely followed by our Earle Douglas , and deserveth both commendation and imitation . Neither will it bee found that this is it which did him hurt , but ( questionlesse ) made him strong , and not easie to bee medled with , and so difficult that they could get no other mean to overthrow him , but that which they used , unto which they were forced , and of which , constraint is the onely excuse , as we shall see where hee is slain . Therefore , to say his greatnesse was the cause of his wrack , is more subtle , then solid ; even as it may be said ( in some sort ) that a mans riches are the cause of his throat being cut by robbers , and that a mans vertues and good qualities are oft times the cause of his overthrow , which should not ( for all that ) bee eschewed . But shall there then bee no moderation ! ( will some say ) and is it not fit , that Subjects should keepe themselves within some cert●…in bounds , that are not envious , or suspect to Princes ? Moderation is good both in Prince and Subject , and it were to bee wished that all would moderate their greatnesse , at least their appetite and desire o●… greatnesse : or if not that , yet so that they would limit the meanes of attaining it , and the end for which they desire it ; and that they would have that wise conference of Cyneas with Pyr●…hus before their eyes , that they might lesse affect it , or lesse erre in affecting of it : But where the end is good , and the mean right and lawfull , who craves further moderation , and limitation , whether in Princes , or Subjects , of their Empire ( as Augustus ) or of their greatnesse ( as this Earle here and many others ) whatsoever shew it carry , and however Histories speake thereof , ( besides their moderation that duety and religion requires ) in so farre as touches Policy , will be found but Sophistry , and no good Policy , when it is well examined . In all this therefore wee can acknowledge no fault ; but on the contrary , kindenesse , effectuall freindship , and a due and provident wisedome in strengthening himselfe against his enemies , and underpropping his house most wisely , and most circumspectly . Where is then his fault ? ye will say , and what was the cause of his ruine ? for we finde he did ruine in the end . Truely we must not account of all that have fallen , that they have faulted , that is a great errour in our judgements , and too common , that by finding faults in others , we may be thought the wisest : yet it is not hard to finde his fault if wee will beleeve his enemies speeches set downe by our Historians ; for though his friends feare nothing , and see nothing but his greatnesse ( which is but a vain feare ) his enemies see further ( as enemies are quicker sighted ) in faults , or would seeme to espy further : in their speech yee shall finde these grosse and lewd faults . 1. An unsatiable cupidity ( and then they explain in what ) in avarice : 2. Then an impotent Tyranny , two great faults ( Tyranny and Avarice ) sufficient to bring downe , and such as oft brought down Kings let be Subjects . And that we may not think that there was but an idle disposition in him , and but a naturall inclination , which he bridled , and suffered not to debord , they tell us the effects of them . Of his 1. avarice ( and that unjust , as all avarice is , if it bee properly avarice ) He seased on Noblemens Patrimonies , hee himselfe by law , and without law : 2. Of his tyranny and oppression , He gave the Patrimony of mean men as a prey to his dependers ; and yet further , Them that withstood his pleasure , hee harried or caused make them away by theeves and briggands : he advanced new men to the highest honours , placing them in the roomes of ancient Families . If any man spake a free word , tasting of liberty it cost him no lesse then his life : These faults indeed are great ones , if they were true , and such as merited that their end should have been as it was : These are indeed errours both in policie and humanitie , in private men or in Princes , in small or great , in what ever person ; and they were worthy to be detested , and abhominated by all men , if they were true , for our Authours say not that they were true . I say again , if they were true expressely ; for they doe but report them as the voyce of his enemies , who did exaggerate things as enviously as they could ( as that amongst other speeches of theirs ) doth witnesse , where they say , That all the riches of the Countrey were heaped upon one Family : that there were so many great Earles and Barons of them , that they had so much power and potencie , that the King reigned but by their license , and courtesie as it were . As for the Authours owne judgement hereof , ( besides what he said before , that they were amplyfied in the most odious manner ) hee subjoynes these , and such like speeches as those , Many of them were true many besides the truth , and augmented above it , to procure hatred unto them . So he leaves the judgement uncertain , and tells not what things were true , and what false and augmented , which we ought to discerne and separate ( if it be possible ) to make a right judgement : for this is indeed the craft of Calumny , to mingle truth with falsehood , that something being knowne to be true , the rest may passe for such also . But Prudencie will sift , and separate them , and winnow them in a right judgement , both that which is true , from that which is false , and in every point laid against him so much as it hath of truth , from that falsehood is mingled with it for Calumniators are excellent in their mixtures , and compositions of truth and falshood , so that there is great attentivenesse required to distinguish betwixt them , yet if we will attend to them , it may be they be discerned . Let us then consider the particulars , and what particulars we find in any of those to be true , let us acknowledge it ; what is not so , let us reject as false , and reckon amongst those that are but amplified , and augmented for envie : After which rule we shall finde in effect the last three to be those which are most true . 1. The riches : 2. The number : 3. The puissance of the house and name of Douglas . And yet not simple true as they set them downe , for they amplifie them also to stirre envie , unlesse we interpret it favourably : for not all the riches of the Countrey , nor all the honour was in their hands , though there were more in theirs , then in any others at that time : yet there hath been more ( both riches and honours ) in the hands of some other before ; for the Cummines are accounted to have been greater , and that their power was beyond the Kings power : it was false , their power being but a dependant , and subordinate , and could not be supposed to have been so great , so united ( though they were of one name ) as was seen afterward . And however we find it was thought so of before in the first Earles time , yet he never used it to the Kings prejudice after that he was informed of his right , which was now out of question : but these carry no fault in them . The rest which carry fault in them , the first two ( avarice and tyranny ) are to be tried by the effects : the third ( taking to himselfe the Noblemens Patrimony ) by law and besides law : what he did by law take from them , was not theirs ; what besides law we heare of no instance given : There is a fact may seem so in the Earledome of Murray , which he tooke not to himselfe , but to his brother . Neither was that the Patrimony , but the Title and Dignity , of which we have spoken already , and it was but a small peece of matter . The fourth and fifth ( his killing and robbing by theeves , and his dependers invading of other mens Patrimonies ) are of the same quality , for we heare of no instance bearing any wrong , Neither of the sixth , and seventh , advancing of new men wrongfully , or killing of men for free speeches . And truely raising of new men , and mean men was the thing that he and all his house did ever dislike very much , and was the ground of their discord , with the Levingstons and with Creighton . And I hope no man will call his brother a new man. So that to be short , when we have sifted them all , we see nothing but falsehood , and calumnies , and aggravations to move envie , which makes it no truth : for a truth augmented or diminished , is no longer truth , though otherwise it were true in substance . Wherefore leaving these speeches as the speeches of his enemies , that is to say , for Calumnies ( as they are called , and as they are indeed ) wee will come to that which is of greater weight , and followes in the Authours owne name , Animus per se insolens , hee was of an insolent minde of himselfe saith one , which being the judgement of one of the most learned and judicious Writers , I will not contest , but leave it in the middle , and soberly crave to have it weighed , that wee may see whether there bee any necessitie to make us thinke so or not , for it is Historicall onely , which I must thinke hee hath found in fact as he hath had leisure , and perused his Histories , of which we are scarce ; to wit , that he grew by successe to that impotency of commanding his affections , that he had his eares closed from the free admonitions of his friends . Nothing is more pernicious , nor is there a more certain prognostick of ruine to follow , then when men are so puft up with the opinion of their owne wisedome , that they disdain and contemne to heare , and to weigh the judgement of others . Yet this that followes is an extreame high degree of it , that men might not dissemble their minds in silence , to hold their peace at those things which they could not approve , was not sure nor safe for them , which ought to be safe for all men , to say nothing , and keep their minds to themselves and God ; which no other man , no not a mans selfe can command altogether . He is obedient that obeyes in the rest : The minde is his that made it , and can search it , over which no man should usurp . The cause of all this ill followes ; the aboundance of flatterers , and giving eare to them : a naturall , but a pestiferous fault , naturall to all great men , and small in their owne kinde : men are given to delight in what they beleeve , and to beleeve easily most good of themselves , whom they love most of any , and for aboundance of flatterers , who wants them ? Diogenes said he had his owne Parasites , the mouse was if men failed ! yea , men never fail , and perhaps failed not him ; hee whom all the world flattered . King Alexander , did he not flatter Diogenes ? what was his speech to him but a flattery both of himself and Diogenes ? or else anerrour concerning them both , when he said , If I were not Alexander , I would be Diogenes . So common is it , so naturall is it , but notwithstanding , it is hurtfull , and to be avoyded , and the more carefully to be taken heed of , the more common and the more naturall it is : he hath the fairest of the play , that is most wary of it , and accounts it his greatest perfection , to know his imperfection ; and he is most accomplished that best knowes his defects , and wishes for helps , and knowes he hath need of them . Out of doubt these were enough to bring down more then one Earle of Douglas ; as for that which is further said of him . His old enemies were drawne to law to plead their cause before the same man , both judge and party , of whom many were spoyled of their goods , some of their lives ; some to eschew the injust judgement , tooke voluntary exile unto them ; and that which is said of their dependers , they overshot themselves , carelesse of all judgements ( because none could contend with them in judgement ) To all sort of licentiousnesse , robbing , and stealing holy things , profane things , and slaying them they could get their hands over : neither keeped they any bridle ( or measure ) in their wickednesse . Of all this concerning his dependers , being so generally and almost hyperbolically conceived : I could wish among so many , that there had been some instance set downe , that we might the better have knowne it , and discerned it . This ( I am sure ) cannot be without hyperbole : that they did commit some gratuit wickednesse ( that is , such as was for no good to them nor profit ) and without gain , pleasure or profit , having no cause in the world for them , but onely to keep their hands in ure of wickednesse , lest being disaccustomed from ill , some honest thought might come into their minde , that might tame them from their wickednesse and vilenesse . So strange a conclusion would have had cleare and plaine antecedents , and not a few of those . It is hard to beleeve this upon any mans word , chiefly such a one as lived not in those times , nor was an eyewitnesse ( as we say ) of things , who by such speeches would have us to conceive more then he could , or by any could be expressed in words . But what one man could only gather out of Histories , we might also ●…ve gathered by the same Historie , if he had named his Authors , or showne the way of his collecting of it from thence . But there being no footsteps of such enormities in the Histories which we have , that can lead us to this , I know not if we be bound so to reverence any mans person , as to receive it absolutely . That which followes , is of the same kinde , wherein the evils of those times are amplified , That it fell out well for Scotland that England had their owne civill warres in those dayes , otherwise Scotland had sunke under the burden . For first their civill warres from this time ( which was from 1444. untill 1448. ) were not great , and but secret grudgings onely . The commotion of Blue-beard was not untill 1449. and in Kent by John Cade in 1450. Then the forraine warres with England might have moved the discord at home , as they have done often , and men fit for warlike employment , and given to arms , should have had matter to exercise themselvs upon the common enemie , who in time of peace , for want of such employment as they are inclined to , are the cause of much evill at home . Last of all , we finde the contrarie by experience : for notwithstanding of these dissentions and disorders , yet they obtained a notable victorie of the English by the same Douglasses who are accounted so disorderly in time of peace , but have ever proved in the eyes of all men honourable , and dutifull in warre , their enemies not being able to detract from their manifest and evident worth . The occasion of this victorie fell out thus . Wee heard how after the burning of Anwicke by James Douglas , younger brother to the Earle , a Truce was taken for seven yeares : notwithstanding of which , in this yeare ( as would seeme ) or in the next at farthest , the English ( without any regard of the Truce ) made inroades upon Scotland , spoyled , forrowed , and burnt the Villages farre and wide where they went , which the Scots would not suffer to passe unrevenged . Wherefore to cry quit with them , they entred England , and returned unto them as much hurt as they had received ; and the storme fell chiefly upon Cumberland , from whence the beginning of the troubles had arisen , which was by this incursion almost redacted to a wildernesse . When newes hereof were brought to London , they gave order for levying of an Army of 40000. men ( as some write ) intending to bring Scotland under their subjection , which they thought would not be hard to doe , in respect the Countrey had beene so lately wasted and impoverished , as also ●…or that they knew their divisions at home . Therefore having made a levie of the best and choice souldiers , the Earle of Northumberland is made Generall , and there was joyned with him a certaine man called Magnus ( onely a Gentleman borne ) who had given good proofe of his valour many times in France , where he had beene brought up , and trained in the warres from his youth . This man bearing great hatred to the Scots , and being too confident of his owne sufficiency , is said to have obtained of the King of England , for the reward of his service , whatever lands he could winne from them , for himselfe and his heires in perpetuall inheritance . He was remarkable by his long and red Beard , and was therefore called by the English Magnus Red-beard , and by the Scots , in derision , Magnus with the red Maine , as though his beard had beene an horse Maine , because of the length and thicknesse thereof . The Manuscript calleth him Magnus with the red hand , taking the word ( Maine ) for the French word , which signifieth an hand : but the attentive Reader may perceive the errour , and how it was a word meerely Scottish , and used by the Scots in derision . The King of Scots hearing of this preparation in England , caused also levie an Army , wherein he made the Earle of Ormond ( George , or rather Hugh Douglas ) Generall , who immediately went into Annandale , through which the English Army was to come . Both sides being thus prepared , the English having passed the Rivers of Solway and Annand , pitch their Camp upon the brinke of the water of Sarke . The Scots marched towards them , and they hearing of their approach , made themselves ready , so that being come within sight one of another , they ranged their men in order of battell . In the right wing of the English Army was this Magnus with the red Maine . ) In the left Sir John Pennington with the Welsh men . The middle battle was led by the Earle of Northumberland himselfe . On the Scots side was the Earle of Ormond in the middle battell over against Northumberland , and William Wallace of Craiggie opposed Magnus , and against Sir John Pennington was placed the Knight of Carlaverocke , called Maxwell , and Johnston of Johnston , with many inland Gentlemen , ( saith the Manuscript ) because they had no great confidence in their owne Annandale men , who were more set upon spoile then victorie . Ormond exhorted the Armie in few words , telling them , That they had great reason to hope for the victorie , because they had taken armes , being provoked thereto , and that it could not be , but that so just a cause should have a happy event . Onely behave your selves valiantly , abate the pride of the enemy with a notable defeat , and so you shall reape a long lasting fruit of a short travell . When the English Archers did annoy the Scots with their arrowes from afarre , William Wallace cried out with a loud voice , so as he was heard by his followers , Why should we stand still thus to be wounded afarre off ? Follow me ( sayes he ) and let us joyne in hand stroakes , where true valour is to be seene : and so marching forward , and the rest following his example , they made so fierce an onset , that they quite overthrew the right wing thereof . Magnus perceiving that , being more mindfull of his honour acquired in time past , then of the present danger , resolved either to restore the battell , or lose his life with credit , pressed forward against Craiggie Wallace to have encountred him , and ere he could come at him , he was encompassed about by the Scottishmen , and slaine : his death put the English in such a feare ( for they had great confidence in his valour and conduct ) that they without any further resistance turned their backs , and fled in great disorder . The Scots pursued so fiercely and eagerly , that there was more of the enemies slaine in the chase , than in the battell , chiefly upon the brinke of the River of Solway , where the tide being come in , the river was not passable , and such as adventured to take it were drowned . There were slaine in this battell 3000. English , and amongst those their great Magnus , and the Scots deadly enemie , who had presumed so of victory . A notable example to teach men not to be over confident in things of such uncertaine event , as are the warres ; and ( as our proverb is ) Not to sell the beares skin before he be slaine . There were slaine besides him eleven Knights of good account and note . Of the Scots were lost but 600. There were taken priloners a great number , amongst whom were Sir John Pennington , and Sir Robert Harington , Knights , and the Lord Percie sonne to the Earle of Northumberland , whilest he helped his father to his horse , who thereby escaped taking . There was also so great store of spoile gotten , as no man remembred so much to have beene gotten at any battell before . For the English trusting to their number , and the strength of their Armie , together with the opinion of their enemies weaknesse , through dissention and variance ( as they supposed ) had brought with them their best furniture , and richest stuffe , in full assurance of victorie , Wallace of Craiggie being sore wounded in the fight , was carried home , and died within three moneths after . The Earle of Ormond having gotten this honourable victorie , conveyed the chiefest of the prisoners to Lochmabane , and then repaired to Court , where he was joyfully met , and received of all , with all sort of honour that could be , envie it self not daring to open her mouth against him . The King did highly commend him for this exploit , and exhorted him and the Earle Douglas his brother , That as their foregoers had often , as they also had done , defended the Estate of Scotland with their labours , and vertue , in most perillous times , and had given large proofe of their valour and courage : That so they would at home accustome themselves to modestie : That they themselves would abstain , and that they would containe their friends from injuries toward the weaker sort : Their power and puissance , which they had acquired by so many their great deserts , towards their Kings , his Predecessours , and the Countrey , that they would employ it rather in suppressing of robbers and disorderly men , then to make new of giving way to it by connivence ▪ That this only was lacking to their full praise , which if they would adde , they should finde by experience there was nothing more deare unto him then the advancement of the House and Name of Douglas . To this the Earle Douglas replied ( he being the elder brother , and finding that this speech was chiefly directed to him ) with great submission , and promised to doe as his Majestie had exhorted them : and so they were dismissed , and returned home to their owne houses with great honour and applause both of Prince and people , to whom they had by this victorie purchased great quietnesse . For neither were the English Borderers able to invade them any more , nor the King of England to send downe a new Army ( which faine he would have done ) by reason of the civill warre which ensued shortly after at home . So that he chose rather to have peace with Scotland , in regard of the case he was then in , then warre . Wherefore he sent Ambassadours , and obtained a Truce for three yeares , the Scots thinking it no lesse expedient for them in a case not unlike to his , through intestine dissention , though not open insurrection against the King. For notwithstanding all this service done to the King and Countrey , the malice of such as were the enemies of the Douglasses was no whit abated ▪ nay , their worth the more it was showne , and the more brightly that it did shine , it did so much the more stirre envie in their ill-willers , whose secret practises still continued , and whose credit in Court seemed still to increase against them . Creighton , who before had beene sent Ambassadour to Charles the seventh of France , for procuring a wife to the King , had concluded a match for him with Mary daughter to Arnold Duke of Gelders , who by her mother ( the Duke of Burgundies sister ) was come of the Bloud Royall of France , was now returned into Scotland with her in this yeare 1448. This service and her favour increased his credit greatly with the King ; which the Earle Douglas perceiving , was nothing pleased with it , but being discontented , obtaining leave of the King , he withdrew himselfe from Court , seeing his errour of having beene contented that Creighton should be imployed in that honourable message , thinking himselfe well rid of him by this his absence ; which practice of Court succeedeth sometimes happily ( as it did against the Boyds in King James the thirds time , in the very like case ) yet it did not so now , but turned to the greater advantage and advancement of his enemie . Creighton was well contented with his retiring , esteeming it his gaine to be so rid of him from the Kings eare and presence . Whilest they concorded thus in their discord , both willing one thing in so contrary mindes ( to wit , the Earle Douglas absence ) there fell out an accident that occasioned his longer absence , not from the Court onely , but out of the Countrey also . Richard Colville of Ochiltree was an enemy and bare deadly feud to John Auchenlech of Auchenlech , a friend and depender of the Earle Douglas ; whom the Earle having sent for to come to him to Douglas Castle for such businesse as he had to do with him , the said Richard having notice of the said Auchenlechs journey , notwithstanding he knew he went toward the Earle , whether stirred up by the Earles enemies at Court , so to put an affront upon him , or leaning to their credit for impunitie , or out of impatience , or presumption , or contempt of the Earle in respect of his withdrawing from Court , not regarding him , or fearing his displeasure or anger , he lay in wait for him by the way , and set upon him with a number of armed men , where , after some small conflict , Auchinlech was slaine , and divers of his friends and servants with him . The Earle Douglas having notice hereof , the fact touching him so neerely in the person of his friend and follower , in his service , comming toward him , and sent for by him , he was so incensed therewith , that whether distrusting the ordinary course of justice ( as wherein he might be eluded by his enemies then guiders of Court ) or impatient of delay , or not accounting it so honourable for him , nor so awefull in example to others , concluding immediately to revenge it , and vowing solemnly he should be avenged before he either eat or dranke , he tooke horse immediately , and with the readiest of his friends rode to the Castle of Ochiltree , forced it , and slew the said Richard Colvill , and all the males within the Castle that were come to the age of men . This opened the mouths of men diversly , according to their diverse humours , some condemning his cruelty , some commending his courage , some saying that he had gone too farre , and done too much ; others that he could doe no lesse , that he had just cause , and that he had been ill used , his friend slain , his honour interessed , that such kinde of justice best became him ; his enemies at Court tooke hold of it , aggravating it to the King , an insolent fact against law and custome , and however Colvill had deserved it ( which they could not deny ) yet it was a perillous example , prejudiciall to all order , and to the King , to whom the punishing of such things belonged ; So that the King became highly offended therewith . Hereupon the Earle Douglas , partly to give place to his Princes anger , partly upon some remorse ( as all bloud hath ever some touch and sting of Conscience with it : ) the next yeare beeing the yeare of Jubilee , hee purchased a license from the King to goe to Rome , pretending he would doe pennance for the said slaughter , ( but as his enemies did interpret it ) to shew his greatnesse to forraigne Princes and Nations . Before hee tooke his journey , having a care of his house , and being out of hope to have children of his owne ( as having been seaven or eight yeare married without children ) he procured his second brother James to be received by the King , and confirmed in the Earledome after himselfe . There went with him in company a great number of Noblemen and Gentlemen , such as the Lord Hamiltoun , Gray , Salton , Seaton , Oliphant and Forbesse ; also Calder , Urwhart , Cambell , Fraiser , Lawders of Crumartie , Philorth and Basse , Knights , with many other Gentlemen of great account . Hee went first to Flanders , and from thence by land to Paris , where he was honourably received by the King of France , whom some call Lewis the eleaventh , but it must needs be Charles the seaventh , who lived till the yeare 1460. some tenne yeares after this Jubilee , which behoved to bee in the yeare 1450. The remembrance of the good service done by his Uncle at Bauge , and his Grandfather at divers times , and at last , for spending his life for him at Vernoile , was not yet worne out of Charles his memory , in regard whereof , and for the place he carried , and the publick League between the Countreyes , he omitted no kind of honour undone to him that was fit for his qualitie and ranke : from thence he tooke his journey towards Rome , which was filled with the expectation of his coming . He had taken from Paris with him his youngest brother George , a young man who was there at Schooles , and of whom there was great expectation ; but he died by the way , to his great griefe , he is said by the manuscript , to have been nominated Bishop of Dunkell , and that he was to be inaugurated at Rome ; Buchannan also saith it , perhaps following the manuscript : but they both forget that his eldest brother Henry is said by the same manuscript , in the life of their father , to have beene Bishop of Dunkell : and this George died before he was fifteene yeares of age . I take it also to be an oversight in this same Buchannan , that hee saith that this George was destinated to be Earle by the Kings permission , after his brother , who had no children . For it is against reason that hee being youngest of many brethren ( worthy men ) should have been preferred before them , while he was but yet a childe at school . While the Earle was thus in his pilgrimage , his enemies slept not at home , but taking the opportunitie of his absence , did both blame him at the Kings hand by all invention they could devise , and stirred up such of the common people as had received any wrong of any man , to complaine to the King , alledging they had received it by the Earle Douglas friends or servants , and by such wayes moved the King to cause seeke Siminton , then Bailiffe to the Earle in Douglasdale , and to cite and summon him to answer to such crimes as were laid to the Earles charge , for the actions ( perhaps ) of his dependers and clients , or ( at least ) for such things as his Lord had neither commanded , neither ( happely ) heard of . Siminton looking for no equitie at their hands , who moved such a citation , choosed not to come into judgement , suffering things to passe rather for non-compeirance , than to compeire , not knowing the state of things , nor how to answer , having neither knowledge of them by himselfe , nor direction , nor information from his Lord. Upon this occasion his enemies laid hold , interpreted this his non-compeirance in the most odious sort , and called it contumacie , and what grievous name they could devise . So they moved the King to send his servants and apprehend him , and would gladly have proceeded with all extremity against him , exclaiming against his presumptuous contempt of the King , and telling the King , that his royall authoritie was become a mockerie , and despised by every base fellow : That by his lenitie he did but foster the malapertnesse of the wicked sort : That by impunitie new doores were opened to new misdoers : with such other speeches , in the most vehement maner they could , to have dipped the King in bloud , and cut off all hope ( as farre as in them lay ) of reconcilement betwixt them . But he , not being so farre alienated as yet from Douglas , howbeit the complaints of so many had stirred up some dislike , and taken impression in his minde , was not moved with their speeches in that high nature , but persisted in his opinion to recompence the Complainers in their losses of goods by goods , but not to meddle with any mans bloud : wherefore he caused Siminton to be set at libertie , and commanded him onely to satisfie the Complainers . But hee who could neither answer without information , nor satisfie without direction , humbly besought his Majestie , that since he had not information , and could not answer , being but a servant , and unacquainted with businesse ; seeing also he was not Collector of his masters rents , but onely commander of his servants , it would please him to delay the matter till his Lord returned , ( whom he expected within few moneths ) who ( he doubted not ) both could and would answer to whatsoever complaint , and satisfie sufficiently at his Princes pleasure whatsoever dammage he should have beene found to doe to any man. This seemed most reasonable , that the Earle himselfe should be heard first , and not condemned unheard , and in his absence ; and there could bee no great prejudice in a short delay . Wherefore the King condescended to it , and yet notwithstanding being importuned by the multitude of new complaints , he sent William Sinclair Earle of Orkney ( a near Cousin to the Earle Douglas ) being Chancellor for the time , to intromet with his goods and rents in Galloway and Douglas , to satisfie Complainers therewith : but it was to no purpose , for hee was eluded , and almost mocked by the tenants . He alledged , and reported to the King , that was done by the instigation of the Earle of Ormond , that he was so frustrate ; for the Earle Douglas had committed to him the mannaging of his estate in his absence , and he greatly disdained that Orkney , being so neare of bloud and alliance to them , should have undertaken that charge . The King irritated herewith , as a contempt of his authoritie , caused Heraulds to be directed ( or Pursevants ) to summon all of the name of Douglas , and their favourers , to compeire upon a certaine day , and the Earle himselfe within threescore dayes ; which being expired , and none compeiring , they were denounced Rebels . Then the King himselfe went with an Army into Galloway , where at his first entrie , having forced their Captaines to retire to their strengths , a small number of his hoast , whilest they followed the Rebels uncircumspectly through strait places , were beaten backe upon the King , not without some disgrace . The king moved with great indignation hereat , went and assaulted their chiefe fortes : And first he tooke the Castle of Lochmabane without great trouble or travell ; thereafter with great toile and wearying of his men , the Castle of Douglas , which he razed to the ground . He commanded the Farmers , Tenants , and Labourers of the ground , to pay their Meales to his Collectours , untill such time as the complainers were satisfied with their Lords goods . These things being reported ( thus as they were done ) to the Earle Douglas while hee was yet at Rome , moved him greatly , and greatly astonished them that were in his company ; so that many withdrew themselves , fearing what it might turne to ; and he , with the few that remained with him , made what haste they could homeward . As hee came through England , hee was honourably entertained by the King and Queene there : but when hee approached neere to the borbers of Scotland , hee stayed a little time , and sent his brother James before to trie the Kings minde toward him ; which when hee found to be placable , hee returned home , was kindely received , and lovingly admonished to put away from him disorderly persons , especially the men of Annandale , who had in his absence committed many outrages and cruelties . This when hee had faithfully promised to performe , hee was not onely received into his former place of favour , but was made also Lieutenant Generall of the whole Kingdome of Scotland . And this was the bitter fruit of his perillous Pilgrimage , that hereby hee loosed the reines to his enemies , and gave them power so farre to prevaile , as to embarke the King in open quarrell against him , even to the casting downe of his Houses , and intrometting with his Revenues . This notwithstanding was either his wisedome , or the account and respect of his place and person , that the King , who had done him such harme and disgrace , could bee contented so to forget it , receiving him so farre into favour , and advancing him , whatever blame or imputation may bee laid upon him for his journey , which was so rashly taken on , and which had so dangerous a sequell ; yet this retreate from that storme cannot but bee commended , and his dexteritie ( whatever it were ) acknowledged to have beene great , which guided him through such billowes and surges to so peaceable a Port and Haven . And it were to be wished that Writers had set downe by what means this was brought to passe , for the more perfect understanding of the History ; but we must beare with this amongst many more defects that are to be found in them . Now what ever wisedome ( though undescribed in the particular ) may appeare to bee in this ; as much unadvisednesse is evident in that which hee did immediately after , in his journey to England . For without acquainting the King , hee went to the Court of England , and had privie conference with that King and Queene , hee pretended that it was for restitution of some goods taken out of Scotland , and not restored by the Wardens of England : but this cause , the lighter it was , the greater suspition did it move in his owne King , who could not thinke it probable , that hee being of that place , of that courage , of that nature , would upon such an occasion onely , take such a journey : The true cause is thought to be , that he went to treat of certaine conditions for his assistance to be given to the King of England against his Nobilitie , with whom he was then in hard termes , the warres of the house of Yorke beginning to spring up , which increased afterward so mightily , and prevailed , to the ejecting him out of the Kingdome . This the Queene of England either foreseeing , or fearing some other such like enterprise against her husband had dealt with the Earle Douglas when he came home through England from Rome the yeare before , to strengthen them by his help , and appointed him to return for performance , and perfecting of all conditions of agreement . But we finde no effect of this agreement and conditions , whether because that conspiracie of the Duke of York was not yet come to maturitie , and so Douglas was not employed , being prevented by death ( which fell out shortly a●…ter this ) or because they were not fully agreed , is uncertaine . Neither is it specified what the conditions were : onely it is conjectured , that they were the same , or such like , as the same King ( Henry the sixth ) granted afterward to the Earle of Angus in the time of King James the third , which if they were , they were no wayes prejudiciall to the King of Scotland ( as shall appeare there ) yet being done without his knowledge , it gave occasion either to the naturall jealousie of Princes to think hardly of it , by his owne meere motion , or to his enemies , so to construct it to the King , and stirre him up by their speeches to that suspicion which he enclined to . Of both which he ought to have beene warie , and not to have given such ground to the one , or to the other , by such a journey undertaken without the Kings allowance . Whether at his returne he acquainted the King with what had past betwixt him and the Kings of England , it is not certaine , and our Writers seeme to say the contrary , yet in that hee brought letters from the Queene of England to the Queene of Scotland , and shee thereupon interceded for him , it is not improbable that he hath acquainted her ( and so the King also ) with the truth of the whole businesse : which whether the King did not beleeve , or if his jealousie remained not the lesse , and that hee was not willing there should bee such an accession and increase of the Earles greatnesse , who ( he thought ) was greater already then was safe for a King ; hee pardoned him the fault at the intercession of the Queene and some Nobles , but he tooke from him the Office of Lieutenant , and all other publicke charge , that so he might be made unusefull and unsteadable to the King of England , or at least not so able to aid him , and so he might be frustrate of the conditions so liberally promised unto him from thence . Hee ●…estored also his old enemie Creig●…ton to the Office of Chancellour , and the Earle of Orkney was made Lieutenant . Thus not onely disappointed of his hopes , but disgraced at his Princes hands , both by being himselfe depressed , and his enemies advanced , he was incensed against all the Courtiers , taking all to proceed from their instigation . But more especially his anger was bent against Creighton , both as the ancient enemie of his House , and also as the chief Authour of all this present dis-favour by his surmisings , transported herewith , hee gave way to his passion to carry him to a course somewhat more then civill , which untill that time hee had tempered , retaining it with the bridle of equitie , and himselfe within the compasse of the lawes . Now whether altogether , and onely for these causes foresaid , or if irritated by a new occasion of malicious speeches uttered by Creighton ( That the Kingdome of Scotland would never be at rest so long as the house of Douglas was on soot : That in the vuine thereof stood the good of the Realme , and peace of all Estates : That it was necessary a man of so turbulent a nature , so puissant and powerfull by his Kindred and Alliance , whom no benefits could appease , nor honours satiate , should hee cut off , and the publicke peace established by his death , ) or if Creighton contrived this speech to make Douglas the more odious , and his owne quarrell seeme the juster against him ( for both are written ) so it is , that the Earle caused certaine of his friends and servants lie in wait for him as hee was riding from Edinburgh toward Creighton : but he escaped , being acquainted with the plot ( as some write ) well accompanied , and excellently well mounted , but not without being wounded himselfe , and having slaine some of his adversaries in his escape . Others , attribute his escaping not to any foresight or fore-knowledge , but sayeth that hee was assailed in the night at unawares , and being astonished at the first , yet afterward recollecting himselfe ( for he was a man of good courage ) hee slew the formost he met with , and having received some wounds , brake through them , and saved himselfe in Creighton Castle , where he remained not long ; but his wounds being scarce well cured , he conveened his friends , and coming on the sudden to Edinburgh , had almost surprised the Earle Douglas , who was there in quiet manner , and looked for no such thing , but he getting advertisement hereof , did advertise the King that he could no longer end●…re Creightons hidden malice and practises against his life , and estate , and his now open attempts also : wherefore hee desired to bee excused , th●… hee could no more repair to Court , so long as Creighton was there , and so retired himselfe to his house to remain as a male-content for a season . In the meane time finding his enemies thus to increase in credit at Court , and with their credit ( as commonly it cometh to passe ) in number and power , hee , to strengthen himselfe also on the other side against them , entered into a new confederacy with the Earles of Crawford , and Rosse , men of greatest puissance and force next the Douglasses , that were in Scotland in their times ; or rather he renewed the old friendship that had been betwixt them . For their houses were in old time in great friendship with the houses of Douglas ( as hath beene shewed ) and the house of Crawford was particularly obliged unto them by divers good Offices , from the dayes of Robert the second : and in this same mans time had been helped against the Ogelbees at Arbroth : as his father also had at the Earle Douglas desire spoyled the Bishop of Saint Andrewes ( Kennedies ) lands : And besides , this Beatrix Douglas ( the Earle Douglas Lady ) was daughter to one of the Earles of Crawford , and could not but bee of kinne to this Earle . The summe of their band was , That they should every one assist and defend another , together with their friends and dependers , against all men : That they should have the same friends , and the same enemies , with reservation alwayes , and exception of their duety to their Prince . But whether this band was made of new ( as some write ) or if it were of old continued from hand to hand , and then renewed as though it were intended in speciall against Crcighton and his partakers , and due exception of the King expressely contained in it , is uncertain : however , they so possessed the King , that hee interpreted all as done against himselfe . And therefore matters being come to publick Hostilitie betwixt Douglas and Creighton , and the Countrey divided into factions , when the Earle of Crawford and Rosse had sent to Creighton , and given up all friendship with him as an enemy to their dearest friend , by vertue of the foresaid League ; hee acquainted the King therewith , and with all vehemencie exaggerated the League , as a conspiracy against him and his royall Authority , and that it was very dangerous for him when such great houses , and powerfull men had combined together . The King apprehending it to bee so , having once settled that opinion in his minde , did upon that ground build all his interpretations of the Earle Douglas actions , and framed his owne actions accordingly against him ; Neither was Douglas so fortunate , or circumspect , as to avoid the occasions of fostering that opinion in the King : but ( as commonly happeneth ) when ruine is to come on men , all things worke that way , so fared it with him in two facts . The first was on the person of the Lord Hanris , who was too hardly used of him , as appeares : The other on the Tutor of Bombee , more justly ; yet so , that his carriage in it seemed to confirme that which his enemies alledge against him , that he exercised his authority , and used his priviledges more absolutely then the King had reason to be contented with . The occasion of the first , and the forme thereof was , Sir William Harris of Terreglis having been the Earle Douglas ancient dependar , had now in this frowne of Court , and diversity of factions ( whether to please the Court , and because he accounted it justest to follow it , or because indeed he misliked things done by the borderers who followed Douglas ) withdrawn himselfe from his dependance ; and if he sided not openly with the other party ( which hee could nor durst hardly doe , lying so neare to Douglas ) yet did hee not follow him as hee was wont , and so either by a reall enmitie in private , or a kinde of neutrality in publick , had procured the like behaviour of the Earle to him , to behave himselfe as neutrall in his affaires : and as hee had abstracted his dependance and attendance from him , so the other abstracted his Protection from him . This when the Annandians perceived , they ( ready upon all such occasions ) made a rode , and furrowed his lands : hereof when he complained to the Earle , and had received answer according to the foresaid coldnes betwixt them , he would needs attempt some redresse by his own power ; and hereupon assembling a number of his friends , he rode into Annandale to have rendered them the like , and either to recover his owne , or repaire his losses out of their goods . But he was overthrowne by them , and taken prisoner , and so brought to the Earle Douglas , hee esteeming him as his owne servant , and taken within his bounds where his jurisdiction ( by regallity or otherwayes ) was extended , put him to assise . They of the Jury found him guilty , being taken after hee had seized the goods , ( with red hand as they term it ) and so being convict of theft , he was condemned , executed , and hanged as a thiefe , and that notwithstanding the Kings earnest request for his life by letter . A pitifull matter , and greatly to be lamented ! and though he had some colour of justice , yet it tasted not so much of justice as of malice ; no not of indifferency ( which would be injustice , having eye to the due circumstances ) so much as of partiality , joyned with contempt of the King , and his equall request ; and so it was constructed , and gave more just occasions to his enemies surmising , and the increasing of the Kings indignation , which by yeelding , and remitting a little of his priviledges , and showing respect to the Kings entreaty , he might have mitigated in some measure ; and that without any danger he could have incurred by the said Lord Harries enmitie ( although he should have been his enemy , and perhaps he might have regained him to his friendship by remitting the offence . ) The other fact which ensued upon this , not so unjust , but made as odious ( as carrying the odiousnesse of the other with it ) was , Macklalane Tutor of Bombee , the chiefe of that name , and one of the principall houses in Galloway , falling at odds with a servant of the Earle Douglas had slain him , and was therefore with his brother who was partaker of the slaughter ) apprehended and put in prison in the Trevie , a strong house belonging to the Earle . His friends made means to the Courtiers , and by them to the King ; informing him that Douglas carried a spleene against the man , more for being a friend , a favourer and follower of the best side ( so they called their owne ) then for killing of the man : wherefore they besought him that he would not suffer a Gentleman of his rank , who was also a good man otherwise ( however that had fallen out in his hands ) to bee drawne ( not to judgement , but ) to certain and destinate death , before one , who was both judge and party . By this and such like information ( whereby the eares of Princes are deceived , while men go about to withdraw their friends from due punishment ) they perswade the King to send for Bombee , and take the triall and judgement of him in his own hands , desiring the Earle Douglas , that i●… he had any thing against him , he should come and pursue him before the King. Amongst the furtherers of this sute Patrick Gray of Fowls ( uncle to the Tutor ) was chiefe : he was directed with the Commission , as one that both would be earnest therein , being so neare to the party , and would also bee respected , being some way in kinne to the Earle ; Douglas having notice of his Commission , and perceiving thereby they meant no other thing , but to defraud him of justice for killing of his servant ( which he thought he could not suffer with his honour ) that he might doe what hee had determined the more calmely , and with the 〈◊〉 offence ( as hee thought ) he courteously received the said Patrick Gray , and intertained him with diverse purposes , and caused the Tutor in the meane time to be tried by an Assise , and being condemned , to bee quickly conveyed a mile from thence to a place called Carling-work , and there executed . Afterward when Patrick Gray ( ignorant of what was done ) had delivered his Commission from the King ; he answered , he was sory he was come too late , and then told him what was done , and desired him to excuse him to the King. When he heard that , and saw himselfe so deluded , he presently ( in a great chafe and rage ) renounced all kindred and friendship , and whatsoever band besides might seeme to tie him to the Earle ; vowing that from that time forth he should be his deadly enemy in all sort , and by all means he could , which the other little regarding , dismissed him : But however he little regarded it , the French Proverb proveth true , and is worthy to be regarded of all men , That there is no little enemy : for he had the power to be his death afterward with his owne hands , and plotted it by his Counsell , or set it forward , being plotted and devised by others : for being come to the King , and relating the issue and effect of his message , all was by him and the other Courtiers of the faction aggravated in the most haynous sort : That the Kings commandments were contemned , eluded and mocked : That it was likely that the Earle Douglas was King : That doubtlesse he aimed to be so , yea , hee behaved himselfe already as such : That that was the meaning of his private conference with the King of England , on that ground he gave licence to slay so many honest men , to spoil and robbe : That innocency now was contemned for brutishnesse , faithfulnesse to the King punished for unfaithfulnesse : That by the Kings indulgencie the common enemy was become insolent : That it became him once to take upon him his place as King , and do things by authority , and by his power , that then it would appeare who were friends , who were foes . These , and such as these , were the speeches of the Courtiers and interpretations of his actions : such as it pleased them to make , following their humour of faction or judgement . But they neither considered the equitie that was done in punishing bloud by bloud , nor the authority by which it was done , for hee had authority and sufficient jurisdiction of old granted to him , and given by former Kings to his Predecessours and their Heires for his service . Neither did they observe what order and formality hee kept in his proceedings , nor his honour interested in the revenging his servants death : Neither what scorne to him it was on the other part , if he had sent the party : having thereby his priviledges , infringed , his servant slain , and no satisfaction for it , but to bee eluded by a Commission , purchased by his enemies , justice defrauded , and the guiltie pulled out of his hands : and by their credit with the King , procuring him to hinder justice , who should have beene the furtherer of it , onely upon their particular private motion , and by their factions , inclining of his Majesty that way . Upon these considerations , what had beene more extraordinarily done , would have beene excused by the same men , in another then Douglas . Now in him ( though done orderly ) it is thus traduced , aggravated , exaggerated , amplified , and named contempt of the King , and affecting 〈◊〉 Crowne . Such is the misery , when Princes are moved by parties , to command or request things that are unjust , there being perill and inconvenients , either in obeying or refusing their requests , receiving hurt and prejudice in their rights , scorne of their adverse party , or denying to offend whom they would fain serve : and happy is that man that can steere aright betwixt these rocks ! Happy hee who falleth into the hands of such a Prince , as measureth and moderateth his commands according to equitie ; or if they bee inique , when it falleth out so ( for what Prince may not fall into such weaknesse ) who tempereth his passion , and moderateth his minde , in the just refusall thereof , taking it in good part , and accounteth not his authority contemned , when an unjust command is refused by his Subjects . Whether it were on the displeasure of this fact , or jealousie conceived of this and other actions of the Douglasses , it is hard to discerne : but so it was , that his enemies making use for their owne ends of the Kings credulous suspition , prevailed so farre , that they perswaded the King to resolve to make him away ( and seeing it could not bee done by open force ) in any sort it could bee done ; whereof when they had advised of all the meanes they could , this they found to bee the most expedient way , that hee should bee sent for to Court , by faire promises , and being come , the King should enter into termes of quarrelling : And thereupon they that were appointed for the purpose , should dispatch him . So they caused a certain Courtier of their faction , but such an one as was free from all suspition of bearing enmity to the Earle , to addresse himselfe to a Gentleman , who was Douglasses friend , and to shew him how Creighton was retired to his owne house , and that in his absence it were fit the Earle should take that good occasion , to come and see the King , with whom hee might bee assured to finde favour , if hee would crave it humbly ▪ and this hee told as a great secret , not to bee revealed , but to his Lord , and dealt earnestly with him to follow this advice . The Gentleman beleeving , went and dealt very earnestly with his Lord , but hee suspecting Creightons craft , and having the murther of his Cousins before his eyes , flatly refused to goe thither , where he had so many enemies , so potent and of so great credit , and some of which ( had not long agoe ) lien in wait for his life , unlesse hee saw assurance of his life and liberty . Hereupon he was directly sent for to come to Court , with promise of all freedome , and with assurance under the broad Seal : and to remove all feare & doubt that he could conceive , the Noblemen that were present at Court were moved to send a warrant to him , subscribed with all their hands , and sealed with all their seals , with the greatest oathes and protestations interposed therein that could be ; and not onely so , but every man wrote his owne particular letter apart , assuring him of the Kings good will ; and further promising him , that if it should so fall out , that the King would be so disposed as to breake his faith and promise , and to interprise any thing against his person , life , lands or liberty , they should send him home safe neverthelesse : What could hee seeke more at their hands ? Or what could hee devise more ? And who would have doubted after such assurances ? Yet , that hee might not onely repose upon his enemies credit all his safety , hee accompanieth himselfe for his honour and suretie with as many as might secure him , and keepe him free from being in danger of any private mans forces . So relying ( for the Kings part ) upon his safe Conduct , and the Nobilities credit interposed therewith , hee cometh to Stirling , where the King was well attended and followed by his friends ●…nd servants , but in a peaceable manner ; being come into the Kings presence , after some sort of admonition to lead a more peaceable and orderly life , hee seemed to pardon him what ever was past , and kindely invited him to supper in the Castle : After they had supped cheerfully and merrily together , the King taketh him aside , and leadeth him into an inner roome , where there was none present besides them two and Patrick Gray , of whom wee spake before , how of his friend and Cousin hee was become his enemy , for the execution of the Tutour of Bombee . There the King beginning his speech from the valour and loyall fidelity of his Predecessours , came shortly to his owne indulgencie towards the whole Familie , and towards himselfe in particular . Then sharpely upbraiding him how oft hee had pardoned him , and what insolencies hee had committed : Douglas answered submissively , and craved pardon for what hee had offended against himself in any sort ; saying , his intention was not against him , but against his enemies : That as for others that would complaine , hee was ready to satisfie them according to justice , and at the Kings owne pleasure : There rests yet one thing ( saith the King ) the League betwixt you , and the Earle of Crawford and Rosse , I will have you presently to quite it . At that word the Earle was somewhat astonished at the first , yet gathering his spirits again , hee answered , that for him , hee knew nothing wherein that League could bee offensive to his Majesty , seeing that all duetie to him was especially reserved . The King replyed , I will have you presently to breake the same . Douglas answered , that if hee would have him to doe so , hee would bee pleased to give him leave to advertise the said Noblemen , and then hee would doe it , otherwise , hee would bee accounted a faith breaker , if having entered into friendship with them , hee should forsake them , not giving a reason why : And therefore besought him to have patience . The King replied in an angry manner , speaking aloud ; If you will not breake it , I will : And with those words , hee stabbed him in the breast with a dagger . At the same instant Patrick Gray struck him on the head with a Pole-axe . The rest that were attending at the doore , hearing the noise , entered , and fell also upon him ; and , to shew their affection to the King , gave him every man his blow after hee was dead . Thus died he by the hand of the King , but by the practices of his enemies , they being the choise movers , and the king yeelding to their motions , as if it had been his quarrell , ( for so they made it seeme to him ) whereas indeed it was but their owne particular ; or if his , it was but thus farre his , that he tooke it on him as his , espoused theirs as his owne , and imbarked himselfe therein . A common practice of Courtiers , who have Princes eares ; what ever is contrary to their will , is all against the King , is all presumption , is all high treason ; whereas indeed they are oft times themselves his greatest enemies , what ever shew of service and affection they make ; and they whom they call his enemies farre more heartily affected to him . They make the King alwayes wed their quarrells , beare their errours , and the whole hatred and envie of their enemies ; and oft times drawes him into great absurdities , besides and contrary his owne naturall disposition , to his great disgrace , or diminishing his grace , in the eyes of his Subjects , not without great perill of his life and estate . Happy the Prince that can rightly take up , and rightly discerne the quarrells which are indeed his owne , from those which others would have him thinke to bee his owne , and so understandeth the disposition of his Subjects , that hee account not all that is against his Courtiers , is against him , or all that is done by his Courtiers , is done for him . These Courtiers had gained this point of the King , and by that mean had brought him to doe that hard fact against this man as his owne enemy , as one aspiring to his Crowne ; where indeed never any such thing appeared to have been intended by him , or aimed at , but onely revenge against his private enemies . And for the other crimes that his enemies alledged against him ; small presumptions , cold conjectures , and no appearance there was of them . But above all this , the greatest pitie is , that they had power to bring such a King to commit such a fact , contrary to his faith and promise , solemnely sworne and sealed by himselfe , and by his nobility , to breake the bonds of all humane society . It is worthy the considering , to see their pretences and arguments set downe by Writers , which they used to move and induce him to consent and yeeld to this strange , and unnaturall fact . A Paradox in truth , though a Maxime in Matchivellisme : one of them is , Necessitie ; for they make him beleeve , first that the Earle Douglas did aspire ; then , that hee was so powerfull , that there was no other remedy for his aspiring ; all they bring , is but weake presumptions : and for his strength and power , hee was strong enough indeed to defend himselfe against his enemies , or an unjust force and violence ; but it had beene another matter unjustly to have invaded the Kingdome , for which hee was not so strong , as justice and a just title to a Crowne , which are of great force : and against which , that force , which otherwise and in another case may bee great , will prove nothing , for God hath given his image of authority with it , which so affects the hearts of men , that they cannot but regard it , and this image being imprinted in their hearts is not easily abolished but by very enormous faults , and even s●…rce by any faults though never so extraordinary . So that it was errour in them to thinke , or craftinesse to perswade that there was no remedy in a just authority to defend it selfe by it selfe , and without forgoing it selfe and becoming injustice , and that in such a hatefull manner . Whereas by the contrary , this their way was not so safe and so certain a mean to defend himselfe , but had almost been the meane to deprive him of what hee would have had men thinke hee preserved by it ; that is , his Crowne , for the fact being so vi●…e and base , it not onely moved the friends and followers of the Earle Do●…glas his house to rebellion , but also incensed the whole common people : for that if his brother who succeeded , had beene as politicke as hee was powerfull , the King might have beene set beside his Throne . And as it was , he was once in a great brangling , and had resolved to quit the Countrey , had it not beene for James Kennedies counsell , who was Bishop of S. Andrewes ; so farre was this fact from establishing his Throne , as they made him beleeve it would doe . Then for the honesty and lawfulnesse of it , it is to be diligently weighed : It is lawfull ( say they ) to catch fraud in the owne craftinesse . And indeed that saying is most true , good and conforme to all wisedome , being rightly understood , thus : Let fraud worke on fraudfully , untill hee be intangled and intrapped in his owne fraud , and so become guiltie and obnoxious to a lawfull and orderly avengement by justice : but that men to meet fraud , may justly use fraud , and that against all promises , seales , subscriptions , or oathes , to the extremitie of murthering , changing justice into injustice , in the very seat of justice , is not , nor ever was , nor ever can bee justified under any pretext whatsoever ; as being that which breaketh the bands of humane society . It is an unworthy Kingdome , which cannot otherwise defend it selfe , and it is unworthy of a King to stoupe to such unworthy and base wayes : It hath also beene by some pretended elsewhere to cover the foulnesse hereof , that hereby much bloudshed is eschewed , which would have beene , before such a man could have beene cut off , which I marvell is not alledged here also . But that is frivoulous amongst the rest , for it is the cause of much more bloud shedding , because it takes away all trust , and so peace , untill the warres end by the destruction of one party , which without trust cannot end by reconcilement , besides this , they insinuated it unto the King , as a point of want of courage in him , and cowardise , if hee durst not so much as deceive his enemy ; whereby they would meane , that it was courage to deceive him : An unhappy dareing to dare to doe wrong , and very far mistaken , and misnamed ! And last of all , they halfe menace to abandon him , and provide for themselves and their own safety , by taking part with Douglas as the stronger partie ; whom if the King did not make away , they would follow him , and that there was no other remedy left to them . Such boldnesse were they come to , thus to threaten their master , and Soveraign ! And such is the weaknesse of that place , where it submitteth it selfe to servants ! By these meanes was this good King ( farre contrary to his owne nature ) drawne on by them who had his eare to this unnaturall fact , as to that which was most lawfull and flat necessary , yet was neither this pretended necessitie , nor alledged lawfulnesse sufficient to defend it even in the judgement of the doers themselves . And therefore the Courtiers found out another mean to put some faire face , at least some colourable excuse upon it as they thought , for being ashamed of those allegiances , or distrusting that they would bee accepted for just causes of breach of faith , and fearing they should be detested of all men : they gave it out that the slaughter was not committed of set-purpose , but that it fell out onely by chance , and that the King had no intention to kill him , till he himselfe by his indiscretion procured it , having irritated the King by his presumptuous answers . But this is a weake excuse , to commit murther contrary to promise , although hee had answered so : but there is no appearance of it , that it was but a sudden passion , neither was it beleeved in those dayes , as may be seen by the perswasions given him by the Courtiers : which while Writers set downe , they witnesse it was a set draught and fore plotted . For they say plainly also that the Courtiers would have had it appearing that it came by his arrogancy in his carriage and answers , but not that it was so indeed : besides there is a received tradition , that James Hamiltoun of Cadzow pressing in to follow the Douglas , Liviston being Uncle to James , and knowing the Earle was to die , gave him a blow on the face , and thrust him backe from the gate . James Hamiltoun drew his sword , which the other little regarding , held him off with a long halbert , and made the guard shut the gate against him , was exceeding angry at this affront in the time , but after when hee heard the Earle was killed , hee knew it was done for his safety . Hee had given too much matter for his enemies to worke on by his rash journey into England , and private conference with the King and Queene there : but this had beene forgiven him , as an oversight onely , wh●… the King had ( apparently ) tried , and found to bee nothing else ; hee had beene vehement in the revenge of the murther of his Cousins and servant John Auchinleck , but that ( though vehement ) was not injust , and therefore wee finde him never charged with it as injustice : hee had against equitie executed the Lord Harries , yet hee had done it legally and by forme , and order of Law , whereof the particulars not being perfectly knowne , the judgement is difficult , yet is it not ( for any thing wee see ) any way to bee excused . The execution of the Tutor of Bombee was very good justice and irreproveable , though it bred him most hatred and ill will at Court. Other particulars are not mentioned : Onely they say that hee bore with theeves to have their assistance : An ill and unwise course , and ever pernicious to the users of it , for harming of such as they hate ! A farre worse , and unworthy fact , unfit for a generous minde to companion it selfe with them whom hee should punish , and to participate of the guiltinesse hee should correct ! But how farre he went in this point is not certain , at least is not specially set downe : and as for the speeches of his enemies reproching them unto him in the hatefullest sort , all must not bee taken for truth they say . All agree that he was a man of great power , great policy , great performance and execution , and greater expectation , in whom the name of Douglas rose to the greatest toppe of height , and with whom it began to fall , which was afterward accomplished in his successour , as shall bee said ; he was slain the 13. of February 1452. esteemed to have beene Fastings-Eve , ( or Shrove-Tuesday . ) after the Romane supputation , or in the yeare 1451. as Major reckoneth it according to the account of Scotland . He was Earle the space of nine yeares or thereabout , but left no children behinde him . Where he was buried , or what was done with his body , there is no mention made in History . Me laetho ante diem Chrightonus Rexque dedere , Ille necis causam praebuit iste manum . By Crighton and my King too soon I die , He gave the blow , Crighton the plot did lay . Of James the ninth and last Earle of Douglas , the eighteenth Lord , sixth Duke of Turraine , and fourth James , who died in Lindores . WIlliam being thus slain by the instigation of these Courtiers , his enemies , to the end that the King as they would have it thought might be established in his Crowne , by the making away of him whom they made the King to thinke so great an enemy to him : It was so farre from producing that effect , that by the contrary there was nothing nearer , then that it should have been the very occasion of spoyling him thereof ; for the Earle Douglasses friends , who before tooke Creighton , and his faction onely for their enemies : Now they take the King for their enemy . They , who before thought not that what they had suffered proceeded from the King , or that it was his doing : now they impute them to him . They who before were onely male-contents , and within the bounds of obedience , and had a good opinion of the King : now they become enemies with an ill opinion of him as a wicked man. They who before contained themselves in civill termes , now become openly rebellious : & whereas they had good hope , and looked for reconcilement , now cast off all hope thereof , and ( matters becoming irreconcileable ) all love and regard , all reverence , their hearts being laden with the injury , with the dishonesty , with the horrour of it , they burst forth into all outragious words , and deeds : things coming to that point , that they could not bee ended , but by the destruction of one of the parties . Either they behoved to ruine the King , or behoved to be ruined by him . And here the hardest lot at the first was the Kings ( by all appearance ) the power of the other party being so great , their minds so inflamed , their anger so incensed against him : neither the party onely , but the people in generall detested the fact and the horriblenesse of it , in such sort , that hee was put by all his shifts , and driven to such a point of despaire , as to thinke of leaving the countrey , and going by sea to France . For though the Earle himselfe was dead , yet had he left behinde him in the towne of Stirlin foure brethren , that were come thither to accompany him . The eldest of these , James , was provided to the estate three yeares before by the Kings consent ( upon the occasion of Earle Williams going to Rome in the yeare of Jubile ) to succeed to his brother after his decease . He therefore , with the rest of the Nobility who favoured them and their cause , having heard the report of Earle Williams being stabbed in that manner , being astonished with these sudden and unexpected newes , first ranne and tooke armes with great haste and tumult , but having contained themselves , and commanding their companies to be quiet , every man keeping within his owne lodging for that night , upon the morrow they assembled together in counsell , and according to the defuncts ordinance , and the Kings consent obtained thereto before , they acknowledged James lawfull heire and successour to his brother William . Then he with many vehement and bitter words , inveighing against the treasonable perjurie of the King and Courtiers , exhorts them who were present to lay siege to the Castle . Send ( sayes he ) for your friends and followers from all quarters , and let us withdraw out of their lurking holes those men who are onely valiant in persidiousnesse , while as yet they waver , being uncertaine in their resolutions , and tremble with the guiltinesse of so horrible a fact . They who were present praised his pietie towards his dead brother , and also his courage ; but because they were come in a peaceable manner , and unprovided of things necessary for so great a worke , they abstained from the siege ; which if they had ( as the Earle gave advice ) resolved upon , and fallen to presently , while the odiousnesse ef the fact was yet greene and fresh before the eyes of men , the King and his partners being unprovided and unforeseene in any certaine course of their affaires , as neither able to consult , nor to meet for consultation , the Castle being inclosed , which being also ( as it is to be supposed ) not well victualled for a siege , the King could hardly have escaped their hands . Neither was the matter so difficult for them , to have remained , and sent for the rest of their freinds , and any provision which they needed ; who might have come to them within five weekes , as they did themselves returne in that time , having given the King so mnch leasure to advise and prepare for them . Neither could the King ( for all that he had that space and time ) finde any meanes sufficient to match them . For having upon this their deliberation resolved upon the worst part , and departed to their houses , and taken full advice concerning all things , they returned the five and twentieth day of March , where all the way as they came along to Stirling , James Hammiltoun dragged the Kings safe conduct ( which had beene given to Earle William , having the broade Seale hanging thereat ) at the taile of an ill-favoured spittle jade , or mare , through the streets of all the towns and villages in their way , abstaining from no contumelious words , that they could devise against the King , his Counsellers and Courtiers . Being come to Stirlin , they went to the market Crosse , and there sounding with five hundred hornes and trumpets , they caused a Herauld to proclaim the King , and such as had been plotters and authours of E. Williams death , perjured traitors to God and man , and that they were to be abhorred , and detested by all men as such . Others write that they went to the Castle gate , and made that Proclamation in the Kings hearing , whiles he was looking on them , and that it was done the next day after the slaughter . Thereafter they pillaged the towne , and being angry even with the innocent and harmelesse place , they sent backe James Hamiltoun of Cadzow , and burnt it . Where this is to be considered , what could be the cause why these men ( who before were upon advisement to have besieged the Castle of Stirlin , and did not doe it then , onely because they were unprovided ) why these men ( I say ) now being come again and provided , abstained notwithstanding from besieging of it , having nothing to let them ; and which if they had obtained , they had withall obtained full victory , being masters of the field , the King inclosed and secluded from his favourers and partners , no others ( in likelihood ) could have made head against them ; for neither could any have taken that upon them , neither would the people ( as was thought ) have followed them , at least not so freely ; whether it was because they had no hope to force it ( being a strong place ) neither to famish it in haste ( being well provided of victualls ) or if they chose rather to deprive him of his partners abroad in the Countrey by forcing them to forsake him first , and then it would be easie to take the King who had nothing but the Castle walls to trust to ; or what ever else were the occasion thereof , our Histories ( very defective in this so speciall a point ) tell not ; But so it was , that they leaving the principall point unprosecute ( the King himself wherein would have consisted the whole summe of a full victory , and to which they should chiefly have directed their courses ) contented onely to have blazed his reproches , turned towards his friends , pilling and spoiling such as remained on his side , and even by this the King was so put to it , that he had determined to leave the Country and to fly into France , had not Archbishop Kennedie advised him to stay , and hope for better fortune , shewing him , that if he could keepe his person safe , and have patience to protract , and linger out the time a while , his adversaries faction would dissolve ere long , and fall asunder of it selfe . Amongst those who tooke part with the King , there were diverse of the name of Douglas , and that of the principalls , as Angus , brother to Archbishop Kennedie , by the mother , who was daughter to Robert the third , and sister to James the first , by whom therefore they were Cosins germain to the King , who was partly perswaded by his brother to take that course as fittest for him against the Earle Douglas , partly also accounted it right to follow him as his King , partly for kindred . There was also John ( or rather James ) Lord Dalkeith , who had married the Kings sister ( as Hollinshed writeth in the life of Mackebeth ) as also the manuscript in this same place , and the contract with the Earle of Morton yet beareth : Also the manuscript in the life of Grosle James ( this E. James father ) faith , the Lord Dalkeith , ( or Henry his sonne rather ) married the said Grosle James eldest daughter ; this James sister called Margaret : whether therefore having married the Kings sister , and so frucke on that side , or having married E. James sister , and being of the name , The Earle Douglas was so much the more incensed against him , that he should without regard of this tie have joyned with his enemies , and therefore besieged the Castle of Dalkeith , binding himselfe by an oath not to deport from thence , untill he had gotten it taken in . But it was valiantly defended by Patrick Cockburne and Clarkington , in such sort , that after he was constrained by great travell , and trouble of his men with watching , and many wounds to lift his siege and depart . The King had in the mean time conveened a company of men to have releeved the besieged , but finding that his power was not sufficient for that purpose , he resolved to attend the coming of Alexander Gordon , Earle of Huntley , his brother in law ( or sister sonne ) whom he made Lieutenant , and who they said was come in with a great Army collected out of the furthest parts of the North. But as hee was marching through Angus ( the twenty eight of May ) he was encountred at Brichen , by the Earle of Crawford , who lay for him there to stoppe his passage . There was fought a great battell betwixt them in such sort , that Huntleyes middle ward was almost defeated , and well nigh routed , not being able to sustain the impression of Crawfords army , which was so strong , that they failed but a little to overthrow the Kings Standard , brought thither and displayed by Huntley , had it not been for the cowardly and treacherous flight of John Collesse of Bonnie-Moone , to whom the left wing was committed by Crawford : He in the hottest of the conflict ( offended with Crawford , because he had refused him that same morning the Barrony of Ferme , or a part thereof , which lay neare to his house ) fled on set purpose out of the battell , and so left the middle ward naked on the one side of the speciall force , which the said Earle had , which was called the battell of axes , or billmen . By their flight , the rest ( who were almost victours ) were so terrified , that they turned their backs , and left the victory to Huntley , farre beyond his owne expectation ; and yet , not without a great slaughter of his friends , servants and followers ; and especially those of his name , amongst whom were two of his brethren . This battell was fought on the Ascension day , in the yeare 1453. hee had before the battell that same day given lands to the principall men of those surnames that were with him , as Forbesses , Leslies , Vrwines , 〈◊〉 , Graunts , and diverse others , which made them fight with greater courage . Crawford also lost many of his men , together with his brother John Lindesay , so that the losse on both sides , was accounted almost equall . Huntley had the name of the victory , yet could not march forward to the King , as hee intended , and that partly because of his great losse of men , partly for that he was advertised , that Archbald Douglas Earle of Murray had invaded his lands , and burnt the Piele of Strabogie . Wherefore hee returned speedily to his owne Countrey , which gave Crawford leasure and occasion to poure out his wrath against them , who had so traiterously forsaken him , by burning and wasting their lands , and casting downe their Houses and Castles . Huntley being returned to the North , not onely recompensed the dammage done to him by the Earle Murray , but also compelled him out of his whole bounds of Murray : yet it was not done without conflict and mutuall harme : for Huntley coming to Elgin in Murray , found it divided , the one halfe standing for him , the other halfe ( and almost the other side of the street ) standing for the Earle Murray : wherefore he burnt that halfe which was for Murray ; and hereupon rose the Proverb , Halfe done as Eglin was burnt . While he is there , Murray assembled his power , which consisting most of footmen , he sate downe upon a hill some two or three miles off , called the Drum of Pluskardein , which was unaccessible to horsemen . Huntley forrowed his lands to draw him from the hill , or at least to bee revenged of him that way , thinking hee durst not come into the plain fields , and not thinking it safe to assault him in a place of such disadvantage . But Murray seeing Huntlies men so scattered , came out of his strength , and falling upon foure or five hundreth horsemen , drave them into a bogue called the bogue of Dunkintie , in the bounds of Pittendreigh , full of quag-mires , so deep , that a speare may be thrust into them , and not finde the bottome . In this bogue many were drowned , the rest slaine , few or none escaping of that company . There are yet to be seene swords , steel-caps , and such other things which are found now and then by the Countrey people that live about it . They made this round ryme of it afterward , Where left thou thy men thou Gordon so gay ? In the Bogue of Dunkintie mowing the Hay . These victories in the North , together with the repulse ( at least the retreat ) of the Earle Douglas from the Castle of Dalkeith did so encourage the King , that he began to conceive better hopes of his affaires , and by the counsell of Archbishop Kennedie he called a Parliament at Edinburgh , and summoned the Earle Douglas and his partners to compeir thereat . But the Earle was so farre from obeying , that he caused plackards to be affixed upon the Church doores , and other publick places , sealed with his seale , containing in effect , that from thenceforth he would neither obey citation , nor other commandement of the Kings , nor in any sort commit his life to him , who having allured his Cousins to Edinburgh , and his brother to Stirlin , under safe conduct , had traiterously murthered them without any order of law , and contrarie to his oath . Hereupon he and his three brethren , Archbald , Hugh , and John , together with Beatrix , Relict of Earle William , were declared Rebels , and forfeited , and with them Alexander Earle of Crawford , and James Lord Hammiltoun ; and that the number of the Nobilitie might not seeme to be diminished by their forfeiture , there were divers new Lords created , and the goods and lands of the forfeited given to them . Thereafter an Armie was levied to pursue them , their lands were wasted , their goods driven away , their cornes destroyed , and then ( winter comming on ) because the Armie could not lie in the fields , they were dismissed , and appointed to meet againe in the spring . But the Earle Douglas seemed to make small account of all this , and that the grandour of his house ( which was growne to that great height by that great marriage ) might not be impaired , and that estate transferred to strangers , he takes to wife the foresaid Beatrix , and deales with the Pope for a dispensation , and confirmation of the marriage . But that sute was crost by the Kings Letters . I finde it in an ancient book written of the Douglasses in meeter , that she her selfe alledged , that her first husband ( Earle William ) had never carnall copulation with her , and that she gave her oath thereupon : which giveth some colourable excuse to this fact , which otherwise is so enormous , and void of all appearance that he could have beene so shamelesse as to have gone about it without some such reason , or pretext , which therefore I would not omit to intimate , and I remember not that I have read it elsewhere . However it were , he kept her as his wife , and continued the warres that yeare , and the next two yeares , pillaging and wasting the Kings possessions , and the King doing the like to him , especially in Annandale , Galloway , and the Forrest . Hereupon ensued a Famine , and upon the Famine a Pestilence , Townes and Castles were destroyed on both sides , and no kinde of hostilitie pretermitted . The King notwithstanding caused trie indirectly whether the Earle could be perswaded to yeeld himselfe to him , and the wi●…est of his friends counselled him to doe it , alledging that his Predecessours had often done so ; chiefly seeing he had a King of a gentle nature , and who would be entreated by friends , not to extinguish so noble a Familie , and undoe so many Noblemen as joyned with him , or to redact them to that necessitie , that they should be forced to take a course for themselves ; that it would be easier for him to get some good quarters now , while matters were as yet not past reconciliation , and while his friends were about him , then afterward , when he should be deserted , and left alone : then there would be no hope of pardon . To this he answered , That he would never commit himselfe to the credit of those whom neither shame nor honestie could binde , who regarded neither the law of God , nor man : but having allured his Cousins and Brother with faire promises , had so traiterously and cruelly slain them , that hee would rather suffer all extremity , then come into their power . This speech was approved or reproved according to every mans disposition , some praising his magnanimitle and courage , some disliking his obstinacie , & exhorting him not to lose this good occasion of making his peace , which ( if his friends wearie of troubles should abandon him ) he would repent afterwards . He persisted in his opinion , and what for detestation of the fact , what for feare to be used after the same manner himselfe , if he should come into the Kings power ( as it falls out , and must of necessity , where trust , which is the ground of all peace and reconciliation , is taken away ) not suffering any thought of peace to come into his minde , resolved himselfe to trie the fortune of warre . But the Earle Crawford being wearie of so long troubles , apprehending the iniquitie of the cause , and weighing with himselfe the common changeablenesse of all humane affaires , and knowing that pardon would be easily granted to him who should preoccupy the Kings favour , and uneasie and difficult to those that should continue in armes , being left by a part of his friends , and suspecting the fidelitie of the rest , as the King was journeying through Angus , he casts himselfe in his way with a habit most composed to move pitie , bare footed , and bare headed ; he plainly confessed his offences in times past , put himselfe absolutely in the Kings will , commemorating the good offices done by his Predecessours ; that he acknowledged that whatever had happened to him , had happened by his owne default ; whatever life or fortune he should have thereafter , he would owe it to the Kings clemencie . These and such like speeches moved the Noblemen that were present , especially the Gentlemen of Angus , who although they had always followed the King , yet were loath that so ancient and noble an house should perish : chiefly Archbishop Kennedie , howbeit he had received many injuries of Crawford ( or his sather ) yet considering of what importance it was to the King to have his owne forces increased by this accession , and his enemies diminished and weakned by want of so great a man , dealt earnestly with the King to receive him into his wonted place of honour and favour . Neither was the King difficult to be entreated , but graciously pardoned him , and restored him to his former condition both of goods and honour , onely admonishing him to doe his dutie in time to come . It is reported that the King being desirous to performe his promise ( which was to raze the house of Phineavin , the chiefe Mannour of the Earle Crawfords ) and to make the highest stone the lowest , he went up to the top of the house , and ( according to this promise ) threw down a little stone , which was lying loose above the built worke , to the ground , which is to this day kept in an iron chaine for a Monument and memoriall of this action . Some also write that the King tooke from him the lands of Badenoch and Loquhabre , and gave them to Huntley for the lands which he had distributed at the field of Brighen , as also the second place in Parliament , and honour of bearing the Scepter . Crawford died within six moneths of a burning feavour at Phineavin , and was buried in the Gray Friers at Dundee , in the Sepulchre of his Progenitors . The Earle Douglas informed hereof , and seeing his forces decay daily , and the Kings daily growing greater , he thought he would goe trie what succour or support he could have out of England , and for that effect he sent James Hammiltoun of Cadyou to K. Henry to desi●…e his help in this estate . King Henry considering , and thinking the occasion fit for him to encroach upon Scotland , perswading himselfe that the Earle Douglas his passion of revenge on the one part , and the necessitie of his estate on the other ( two powerfull perswaders to move men ) should drive him to accept his help on whatever termes , was content to aide him upon this condition , that he should become his subject , sweare himselfe English , and so to continue for ever ; and for better assurance hereof , should put into his hands such Strengths and Castles in Scotland as he had in his custodie . Unto this Douglas replied very generously and honestly , `` That hee 〈◊〉 would never leave such a blot upon his house , and would rather choose to die by what ever hand , then commit such a crime against his Countrey , for a fault done by the Prince and some particular men onely , whereof he hoped to be avenged , without that shame . This being so honest a part , and testifying so honest a heart , as some of them have not had the like , even of those who pretended to be Kings themselves ( some of whom have not refused to render themselves and their Kingdomes to the English servitude , to be avenged of their enemies , and to obtaine the Crown for themselves ) is too lightly overpassed by our Writers , without the due testimony , approbation , and praise that it well deserveth . Besides , there can hardly be a clearer argument of his not affecting or aiming at the Crowne , which his brother and Predecessours were charged with , and tra●…uced to the King : for had he beene that way set , he would have accepted of the proffer of England , and made use of their help , which ( questionlesse ) these Kings would not have denied him , according to their ordinary practice . And how many are there that would have forborne in such power , and upon such an occasion ? for although he seems to have no colour of title to the Crowne , yet men that aspire to it , doe seldome want their pretences , when they have power to search it . So that the greater is the pitie in so moderate prosecution of such a quarrell , that the event should have beene so hard on his side , which appeares yet better in that which followed . So le●…t thus to himselfe , by the instigation of his partners , and namely of James Hammiltoun of Cadyou , hee gathered together his friends and followers to raise the siege of Abercorne , which the King had beset , and lay before it in his owne person . And when hee was come within five miles , or ( as others say ) within sight of the besiegers , they looked assuredly that he would , and that hee had resolved to fight , because he put his Army in order of battell ; and being very ready for their part , and forward , Cadyou also exhorting him thereto , that he would end these warres with a notable victorie , to his perpetuall praise , or with an honourable death , as became his house , that he would vindicate himselfe from those miseries and contumelies ; he utterly refused to fight , though he were more in number , saying plainly , his heart would not suffer him , nor serve him to fight against his Soveraign . Wherby it may be conjectured ( as saith the Manuscript ) that his meaning was only to have terrified the King , and brought him to some reasonable conditions of peace . But there wanted intercessours to deale betwixt them , partly because all were ingaged to the one or other side , partly for that they beleeved that he still persisted in his former opinion of distrust and indignation , and so nothing was done therein by any . Others interpret it to have bin cowardize , or faint heartednesse , and lack of courage ( for their words import so much ) a fault that was incident to few of that stock , and we never finde it imputed to any of them against England , or against any other private enemie ; neither to this man elsewhere , but only at this time . And we heard how after the killing of his brother his courage is commended , together with his piety . The reason of it hath been this ; then while his anger was recent , and green against the authors thereof , he could have done any thing to have been avenged ; now time having taken away the edge of that disposition , when he considered it was his King he had to do with , whose hand the Courtiers , his enemies , had onely borrowed ; his naturall affection , and regard of a subject toward his Prince , was returned , and by peece-meal had taken possession of his heart again , as the own proper lodging where it had been harboured ever before . Certainly this refusall to fight now , and his former rejecting the King of Englands disloyall conditions of help , have proceeded from one and the same disposition of minde . Wherefore seeing that ought highly to be praised , I see not how this can be condemned , at least how they can condemn it , that do so highly respect that high place of Kings . The word also will import , not altogether flat cowardise , but a natural sluggishnesse , & want of action , whereof cowardise is sometimes the cause , but not alway , though they concurre often ▪ But there is another affection that makes men slack in action , which proceeds not either of sluggishnesse , or cowardise , but of irresolution ; when a man swiming betwixt two opinions , resolves not fully upon either , and this seemes to have beene his disposition . A great impediment in his actions , and at least in this last point of such importance , the cause of his ruine , while neither his heart could suffer him to betake himself against his Prince , whom naturally he affected , neither could he digest to forget the fact done , or ( after it ) to commit himself to the doer . Which disposition , though it have brought out the like effects as cowardlinesse and sluggishnesse are wont to do , to wit , lingring and eschewing of the battell , yet this did not proceed in him from either of these two , but had the originall from a very honest minde to his dutie . His love to his Prince strove and fought with another dutie , which was his love to his dead brother , or to his owne honour . Out of which , whileas he either cannot , or occasion is not offered to extricate himselfe , and winde out a full resolution , he suffered himselfe to be carried unto that which he was most inclined to , his love to his Prince , and thereby he slipt and let slide through his fingers ( as it were ) this faire occasion which was then offered unto him , of no lesse ( in the judgement of his friends ) then the casting the dice for the Crown . And so James Hamilton told him , that the occasion was such , that if he did not lay hold of it , he should never finde the like again : he told him withall , that his want of resolution would be his overthrow , as it was indeed . For James Hammiltoun himselfe left him that same night , and went to the King , of whom hee was so honourably and well received , that others thereby were encouraged to come in also . Yet others write that he was committed to ward in Rosseline for a certaine season , and afterward releeved at the entreatie of George Douglas Earle of Angus . However , by his information to the King of the estate of the Earle Douglas his Armie , how forward they had beene to have fought , and how discontented and discouraged they were with his lingring , how the greatest motive that kept them with him was their doubting of pardon for their former offences , the King caused make a Proclamation , that whosoever would come unto him , and forsake the Earle Douglas , should have free remission for all that was past , providing they came within 48. houres . This being published , the most part of the Earls Armie left him , so that there remained not ( ere the next morning ) with him above 2000. men , whereby he was constrained to leave the fields , and his friends and servants that were in Abercorne to be cruelly slaine , and executed ; for the Castle was taken by force , and demolished , to his no small reproach , in that he was so irresolute , and had not by some meane or other procured at least some honest composition for himselfe and them , or else to have adventured all . Where if he would not have taken the Kingdome , in case of victorie , yet might he honourably have set downe conditions of peace ; or if he had lost the field , he could not have lost more then he did ; for by these meanes , abandoned of all , he was constrained to flee unto England . In the yeare 1455. having gotten together a small company of men , he returned into Annandale , thinking to have found some friends in those quarters , which were his own lands before ; but there he was encountred by the Kings followers , especially by his own kinsman ( but the Kings Cousin ) George E. of Angus ( as some write ) who defeated him . His brother the Earle of Murray was slain in the field , and his other brother the Earle of Ormond was hurt , and taken prisoner ; after his wounds were cured , being brought to the King , he was executed , with greater regard to this last action , then respect to his victory obtained not far from the same place , at Sark , against the English , & Magnus with the red main , their insolent Champion , which was so greatly praised by the King before , and so acceptable to all Court and Countrey . Such is the course and vicissitude of all humane affaires . We heare of one onely sonne of Ormonds , named Hugh , Dean of Brichen , of whom we shall speake somewhat hereafter in the life of Archbald Earle of Angus , who was Chancellour of Scotland . His takers were the Lord Carlile , and Johnston of Johnston , to whom the King gave in recompence the 40. l. land in Pittinen upon Clide , to each of them a 20. l. land thereof . The third brother , John Lord of Balvenie , escaped in a wood , and the Earle himself by flight got him to Dunstaffage , where finding Donald Earle of Rosse , and Lord of the Isles , he incited him to make war against the King in his favours , and after he had ingaged him therein , he withdrew himselfe again into England . This is noted to have beene in the yeare 1455. after which there was a Parliament called ( about the fifth of June , or August , as the Acts beare ) wherein he , and his brother John , and his wife Beatrix , were againe forfeited , and their lands of Galloway annexed to the Crowne . This Beatrix ( who had beene his Brothers wife , and whom he had used and kept for his owne wife for certaine yeares ) came to the King , and excused her selfe , as being a woman , and compelled to doe what she had done . The King received her into favour , and married her to John Stuart his halfe brother ( by the mother ) and gave her the lands of Balvenie . This John was afterward made Earle of Athole in King James the thirds time : he had by Beatrix two daughters onely , the eldest of which was married to the Earle of Errole . This is cast in by some in the next yeare following . The Earl Douglas abandoned on all hands , travelled with Donald of the Isles , Earle of Rosse , conforme to their old band made with Earle William to assist him , and renew his claim to the Isles . Hereupon Donald wasted Argyle , Arran , Loquhaber , and Murray , took the Castle of Inner-Nesse , burnt the towne , and proclaimed himselfe King of the Isles : but his wife ( who was daughter to James Levingston , and had beene given to him in marriage at the Kings desire , of purpose to retain him the better in duty ) when she saw she could neither prevaile with him in that point , and that besides she was but contemned by him , and the barbarous people that were with him , she left him , and came to the King , who received her very gladly . About this same time Patrick Thornton , a secret favourer of the Earle Douglas his faction , though he had followed the Court a long time , slew John Sandilands of Calder the Kings Cousin , and Alane Stuart also , upon occasion at Dumbartan . These two were of the Kings side , wherefore the said Thornton was taken by the Kings Officers , and executed . These things being not yet fully settled , did greatly perplex the King , between domestick and forraign enemies . In the year 1457. the Earl Douglas came in with Henry Percie Earle of Northumberland to the Merse , which as they were in wasting & pillaging , they were encountred by G●…orge Earle of Angus , and put backe to their Camp. Being irritated with this indignitie , they put themselves in order of battell , without staying for their full companies ; many of which were gone abroad into the Countrey and Villages for spoile and bootie , and so entred into conflict . When the noise hereof was carried to the eares of the forrowers , they for feare of losing what they had gotten , which was a very rich and great prey , past directly into England , without regarding what became of the two Earles . Hereby the battell was lost by the English , but the losse of men was almost equall on both sides . This victorie did not a little recreate the King , and so affrighted Donald and his Islanders , that he sent and submitted himselfe to the King , and was received by him . Neither was there any farther insurrection within the Countrey . Neither did the Earle Douglas without the Countrey enterprise any thing by the aid of England ( they being distracted at home by the dissention of Lancaster and Yorke ) during the dayes of this King , which were not many : for about two or three years after this , the King alone was slain by the wedge of a peece of Ordnance of his own , and with him George Earle of Angus hurt amongst 30000. of his Armie ( of whom none else was either slaine or hurt ) at the siege of the Castle of Roxburgh in the 29. yeare of his age in September 1460 , some 8. yeares after the killing of Earle William in Stirlin Castle , at which time he was about the age of twenty one or twenty two yeares . Neither hear we any mention of the Earle Douglas his stirring in the next Kings ( James the thirds ) time , either in his minoritie ( being but a childe of seven or eight yeares of age at his coronation ) or in his majoritie ; either in the dissentions betwixt the Kennedi●…s and the Boydes , or the dissention betwixt the King and the Nobilitie . Whether it bee the negligence and sloth of Writers that have not recorded things , or whether hee did nothing indeed , through want of power , his friends , and dependers , and vassals being left by him , and despairing of him , having taken another course , and his lands being disposed of to others ; so it is , that for the space of twenty yeares , or three and twenty , untill the yeare 1483. there is nothing but deepe silence with him in all Histories . Onely wee finde that hee was made Knight of the noble Order of the Garter by King Edward the fourth , and is placed first in order of all the Earles , and next to him the Earle of Arundell ( who is the first Earle of England ) in the booke , intituled , Nobilitas Politica ; and the English Heraulds say of him , that he was a very valiant noble Gentleman , well beloved of the King and Nobility , and very steadable to King Edward in all his troubles . These troubles ( perhaps ) have beene the cause that they could enterprise nothing in Scotland untill the soresaid yeare 1483. However it be , he hath the honour to be the first of his Nation admitted into that Order . At last then in the yeare 1483. Alexander Duke of Albanie , and brother to King James the third ( who was also banished in England ) and the Earle Douglas , desirous to know what was the affection of their Countreymen toward them , vowed that they would offer their offering on the high Altar of Loch-mabane upon the Magdalen day , and to that effect got together some five hundred horse ( what Scottish what English ) and a certaine number of English foot-men , that remained with Musgrave at Burneswark hill to assist them in case they needed . So they rode toward Loch-mabane , and at their coming the fray was raised through Niddisdale , Annandale , and Galloway , who assembling to the Laird of Moushill ( then Warden ) encountred them with great courage . The English who were on the hill ( Burneswark ) fled at the first sight of the enemy , so that the rest behoved either to doe or die . And therefore they fought it out manfully from noone till twilight , with skirmishes , after the border fashion , sometimes the one , sometimes the other having the advantage . At last the victorie fell to the Scots , though it cost them much bloud . The Duke of Albanie escaped by flight , but the Earle of Douglas being now an aged man , was stricken from his horse , and taken prisoner with his owne consent , by a brother of the Laird of Closeburnes , in this manner : The King ( James 3. ) had made a proclamation , that whosoever should take the E. Douglas should have 100. l. land : the E. being then thus on foot in the field , wearied of so long exile , and thinking that he might ( perhaps ) be knowne by some other , seeing in the field Alexander Kilpatrick ( a son of Closeburnes , and one that had beene his owne servant before ) he calls on him by his name , and when he came to him , he said , I have foughten long enough against my fortune , and since I must die , I will rather that ye ( who have b●…ene my owne servant , and whom I knew to be faithfull to me as long as I did anything that was likely for my selfe ) have the benefit thereby then any other . Wherefore take me , and deliver me to the King according to his Proclamation , but see thou beest sure hee keepe his word before thou deliver me . The young man , who loved the Earle entirely in his heart , wept ( as is reported ) for sorrow , to see him thus aged , and altered in disguised apparell , and offered to goe with him into England . But hee would not , being wearied of such endlesse troubles ; onely hee desired the young man to get his life safe , if hee could obtaine so much at the Kings hands , if not , to bee sure of his owne reward at least . Hereupon Kilpatricke conveyed him secretly out of the field , and kept him in a poore cottage some few dayes , untill hee had spoken with the King , who granted him the Earles life , and gave unto himselfe the fiftie pound land of Kirk Michaell , which is possest by his heires , unto this day . Some give the honour of this victory to Cockpool and Johnston , and make the number of those that came with Douglas and Albany greater , and say that King Richard of England blamed the Duke of Albanie for the losse thereof , and that hee discontented and taking it ill to bee so blamed , withdrew himselfe secretly into France . The Earle Douglas being brought to the King , hee ordained him to be put into the Abbacie of Lindores ; which sentence when hee heard , hee said no more but this : Hee that may no better bee , must bee a Monk , which is past in a Proverbe to this day . Hee remained there till the day of his death ( which was after the death of King James the third ) which fell out 1488. he being of a good age , and having beene a man in action from the beginning of his brother William now foure and fourty yeares . Some write that while he was in Lindores , the faction of the Nobility ( that had put Coghran to death , and punished some others of the Courtiers supported by the Kings favour ) especially Archbald Earle of Angus , ( called Bell-the-Cat ) desired him to come out of his Cloyster , and be head of their faction ; promising he should be restored to all his lands , which seemeth not very probable : But that which others write , hath more appearance , that the King desired him to be his Lievetenant against the Rebells ; but hee laden with yeares and old age , and weary of troubles , refused , saying ; Sir , you have kept mee , and your black coffer in Stirling too long , neither of us can doe you any good : I , because my friends have forsaken me , and my followers and dependers are fallen from mee , betake themselves to other masters ; and your blacke trunck is too farre from you , and your enemies are between you and it : or ( as others say ) because there was in it a sort of black coyne , that the King had caused to bee coyned , by the advise of his Courtiers ; which moneyes ( saith he ) Sir , if you had put out at the first , the people would have taken it , and if you had imployed mee in due time , I might have done you service . But now there is none that will take notice of me , nor meddle with your money . So he remained still in the Abbacy of Lindores , where hee died , anno 1488. and was buried there . THus began and grew , thus stood and flourished , thus decayed and ended the Noble House of Douglas , whose love to their Countrey , fidelity to their King , and disdain of English slavery was so naturall , and of such force and vigour , that it had power to propagate it selfe from age to age , and from branch to branch , being not onely in the stocke , but in the collaterall , and by branches also , so many as have beene spoken of here . They have continually retained that naturall sap and juice which was first in Sholto , then in William the Hardie , who died in Berwick ( who was in a manner a second founder ) in such a measure , that amongst them all it is uncertain which of them have beene most that way affected . This vertue joyned with valour ( which was no lesse naturall , and hereditary from man to man ) caused their increase and greatnesse : their Princes favouring them for these vertues , and they by these serving their Princes in defence of their Countrey : Their affection pressing them thereto , their worth and valour sufficing them , the hearts of the people affecting and following them : Their enemies regarding and respecting them , all men admiring them : so that in effect , the weight of warlike affaires was wholly laid on them . The Kings needed onely to give themselves to administer justice , consult , and direct , living at peace and ease , and in great quietnesse to use their honest recreations , from the latter dayes of King Robert Bruce , wherein there was a pleasant harmony , and happy concurrence ; the Kings ( as the great wheel and first mover ) carrying the first place in honour and motion , and commanding : and they in the next roome , serving and obeying , and executing their commandements ( as under wheels , turned about by them ) courageously , honourably , faithfully and happily , to the great honour and good of their Prince and Countrey . This behoved to be accompanied with greatnesse : for neither could service ( to any purpose ) bee done without respected greatnesse , neither had greatnesse beene worthily placed without service . Their power is said by some to have been such , that ( if they had not divided amongst themselves ) no Subject in this Island could have compared with them in puissance . But that which diminished their power , and ruined the Earle Douglas , was the falling of the houses of Angus and Morton , from them to the King : for the last battell the Earle Douglas was at , the Earle of Angus discomfited him ; so that it became a Proverbe , The Red Douglas put downe the Black : Those of the house of Angus , being of the fairer complexion . They might have raised ( thirty or fourty thousand men ) under their owne command , and of their owne dependers onely , and these most valiant : for their command was over the most expert , and most exercised in warre , by reason of their vicinitie , and nearnesse to England , which was their onely matter and whetstone of valour . They who give them least , give them 15000. men , who upon all occasions were ready with them to have ridden into England , at their pleasure , and backe even for their private quarrells , and have stayed there twenty dayes , and wasted all from Durham Northward , which no other private Subject could ever doe , upon their owne particular , without the Kings Army : this power ( as hath been said ) they u●…ed ever well , without giving of offence to their Prince in any sort , that we can reade of clearly and expresly set downe . Yet our Writers say , it was too great for Scotland . But how could it be too great , that was thus for the good of it ? for the Kings service ? for their ease ? making no rebellion , no resistance , no contradiction ? which ( we see ) they came never to , untill the killing of E. William at Stirling . Truely if we shall speake without partiality , their greatnesse was so usefull to their King and Countrey , that Hector Boetius stickes not to say , the Douglasses were ever the sure buckler , and warre wall of Scotland , and wonne many lands by their singular man-hood and vassalages : for they decored this Realme with many noble Acts , and by the glory of their Martiall deeds . And though their puissance was suspected to some of their Kings , and was now the cause of their declining , yet since that house was put downe , Scotland hath done but few memorable deeds of Armes : And we cannor say justly , that they gave any cause of jealousie . Princes were moved to conceive it without just occasion given by them , unlesse it were a fault to be great : whether they were jealous of their owne naturall inclination ( as jealousie is esteemed ordinarily to the highest places ) or by the suggestion of others , that were mean men , and so envious of great men : the one inclining to jealousie , the other working on that inclination , however notwithstanding of all this , they sti●…l behaved themselves towards their Princes moderately , obeying them to warding , and after releeving to warding again , at their Kings pleasure , without any resistance whatsoever , as may be seene in the Earle of Wigton , which being well considered , the cause of their stirring , or commotion against their Prince ( which was never till this last man ) will appeare not to have proceeded from their greatnesse , enterprising against their Prince , or aspiring to his Throne , ( although the meane men , and new start-up Courtiers perswaded the King so , for their owne advantage and ends ) but the cause was indeed the aspiring and ambition of these mean men , who laboured to climbe up into their roomes by their decay , neither was this their aspiring by vertue , but by calumnies , and flattering , fostering the foresaid jealousie . I know it is a maxime in Policie , and that plausible to many ; That Princes should not suffer too great Subjects in their Dominions ; yet it is certain , that without great Subjects there can be no great service . Things may be shufled at home , but abroad there can never any thing bee done to the purpose , or of note . But now the question is where great men are already ; whether it bee best thus to undoe them , and make up new men by their ruine , or not : a thing worthy to bee considered : and also , whether or not there be a possibilitie to use great men to good uses ; and ( if possible ) whether it were not better to doe so , then to goe about to undoe them : whether also there be not in undoing of them such great hazard ( as we see ) that though it may succeed at last ( as it did here ) yet it is not so good wisedome to adventure upon it with such trouble and uncertaintie . Truely , that which made it to succeed , was the very honest heart of this last Earle James ; who , if either hee would have turned English , and cast off all respect to his native Prince , or entered into battell against him at Abercorne , it had proved an unwise course so to have affected the advancement of these mean men ; and not rather to have used them well , that were become already great . And therefore the Writers finde no other cause of this successe on the Kings side , but the onely providence of God , who had not determined to give the Crowne to the Douglas , but to continue it in the right line ; which though the Douglas did not aime at , yet being driven to this necessity , either to lose his owne estate , or to take the Crowne in case of victory , hee could hardly have refused it , if it should have come to that , but hee chose rather to lose his owne ; and lost it indeed by a rare modesty , which is even disallowed by Writers , who interpret it to have beene fearefulnesse , or lazinesse ; so hard is it to know the right , and not to incurre some censure in our actions : how ever it bee , this appeares most certain , that their meaning to their Prince and Countrey hath ever beene good , and that even in this man. Their errours and faults whatsoever they fell into , they were drawne to them by the malice of ●…eir particular enemies , and the Princes assisting , fostering and maintaining them in their wayes , thereby to undoe that Earledome , jealous of their Crowne , and that they might reigne ( perhaps ) with greater libertie , and fuller absolutenesse , which their Courtiers perswaded them they could not doe , so long as they stood . But it comes not ever so to passe ; and though it came here so to passe in this Kings dayes ( which were not many ) yet in his sonnes dayes , wee shall see it fell out otherwayes : for out of these mean men ( at least in respect of the house of Douglas ) there arose some who proved as great , and greater restrainers of that liberty , then ever the Earles of Douglas were . So that if that bee the end of cutting off great men ( to obtain greater liberty ) wee see it is not alwayes attained , and doth not ever follow upon it ; yea , wee shall see , that almost it never ( or but for a very short while ) produceth that effect . It is therefore worthy to be examined , whether it be to be sought , or to be bought at so deare a rate , such hazard and trouble . But this is the vicissitude of this rolling world ; let men consider it , and reverence the Ruler . Jacobus Comes Lindorensi coenobio inclusus . Quid rides rasumque caput , cellaeque recessum ? Quodque cucullatis fratribus annumeror ? Fortunâ volvente vices fiet modo Princeps , Plebeius : Monachus saepè Monarcha fuit . Why doe you laugh to see my shaven Crowne ? My Cell , my Cloyster , and my hooded Gowne ? This is the power of that Soveraigne Queen , By whom Monkes , Monarches ; Monarches Monkes have been . Another . Both Fortunes long I tri'd , and found at last , No State so happy as an humble rest . Georgius Angusiae comes . Anvici Gallos obsessos undique laetho , Scotorum , eripuit te duce parva manus , Te duce Duglasius , victus quoque Percius heros Militiae statuunt clara tropheae tuae : Sed consanguinei , sed quid meruere propinqui ? O furor , O rabies , perdere velle suos ? Matrem ingrata necat crudeli vipera , morsu Stirpem , quâ genita est noxia vermis edit His non absimilis fueras : per te domus illa Eversa est ortum ducis & unde genus , Non me ventosa ambitio , non dira cupido Egit opum me non impulit invidia Ferre parem poteram , poteram vel ferre priorem , Contentusque mea sorte beatus eram : Ast Regi parere & jussa facessere fixum ; Fas quoque semper erat , fas mihi semper erit George Earle of Angus . Thou ledst a handfull , who from death did free The French besieg'd at Anwick : victory , Though bloudy from the Noble Piercy gaind , Increast thy honour : but against thy friend And kinsman , what strange fury turn'd thy force ? What madnesse to destroy thy owne , 't was worse Then Vipers cruelty , compell'd to eat Their way or die ; thine was a needlesse hate : No vain ambition oversway'd my heart , No love of wealth , no envie had a part In what I did , I could an equall beare : Nay , did not grudge though Douglas greater were , Content with what I had , I happy liv'd , But 't was my Prince his will and 't is beleev'd Lawfull , and Justice hath pronounc't it good To serve our King , without respect of bloud . Aliud . A solo potuit Pompeius Caesare vinci , Non nisi Romano milite Roma cadit , Duglasios nemo cùm posset vincere , solus Duglasium potuit vincere Duglasius . Another on the same . Pompey by Caesar onely was o'recome , None but a Romane Souldier conquered Rome ; A Douglas could not have been brought so low , Had not a Douglas wrought his overthrow . Here endeth the first Part , containing the History of the House of Douglas . THE SECOND PART OF THE HISTORY OF THE DOUGLASSES , CONTAINING THE HOUSE OF ANGUS . By Master DAVID HUME of Godscroft . EDINBURGH , Printed by EVAN TYLER , Printer to the Kings most Excellent Majestie . 1643. Of the House of ANGUS , before it came to the name of DOUGLAS . THe great and potent House of Douglas ( of which we may say , the best subjects that ever served Prince , the worthiest seconds that ever seconded any , worthie for their modestie to be seconded by others , second to none in all vertue , and true worth of valour , magnanimitie , kindenesse , courtesie , faithfulnesse to King , Countrey ; and kinred , serving their Prince , and served by the rest , worthily served , worthie to be served , as knowers of service , and recompencers thereof in due proportion , and degree , as Charters of Lands liberally given do testifie ) being thus brought to this pitifull end , there arose in place thereof the House of Angus , of which we come now to speak , and to view in the descent of it . If we shall consider it in our best discourse , with all circumstances due to it , and compare it with the former , to which it succeeded , ballancing all things aright , we shall finde it , as not fully so great in that huge puissance and large extent of lands and rents that the house of Douglas had ( which did surpasse all others that were before , or have been since amongst subjects , ) so shall it be seen otherwise nothing inferiour . In antiquitie Angus is thus far beyond it , that there have been diverse ●…hanes of Angus ( which was a degree of honour in those dayes equall to that of Earles now ) as also that the Earles of Angus were created amongst the first that carried the title of Earles in the year 1057. or 1061. at the Parliament of Forfaire in the dayes of King Malcolme Kenmore ; whereas the house of Douglas was honoured onely with the title of Barons , or Lords . This is much preferment , yet it is more , that in our Chronicles the name of the house of Douglas is then first found , whereas Angus is found 200. years before that time in the 839. year , howbeit we have already showne that there were Douglasses in the year 767. though not mentioned by our Writers . In bloud they are equall on the fathers side , as being descended of the same progenitours ; so that what ever belongs to the house of Douglas before James slain at Otterburn , belongs also to the house of Angus ; the first Earle of Angus of that surname being brother to him , and both of them sonnes to W●…lliam the first Earle of Douglas , or rather the first Earle of Douglas , being also Earle of Angus in effect , seeing his wife was Countesse of Angus , howbeit he used not the stile . By the mothers side , the house of Angus hath the preeminence , being descended of the greatest in the Kingdome , and even of the Royall stock , having been divers wayes mingled therewith . In vertue , valour , and love of their Countrey , it resemblet●… the spring from whence it ●…owes , and comes nothing short of it . In c●…edit , authority , place , and action , account , favour , and affection of men , we shall finde it no lesse beloved and popular , and no lesse respected and honoured . So that with all this ( both likenesse , and no great inequalitie ) bearing the name of Douglas , together with the armes , and title of Lords of Douglas , the fall of this former house was the lesse felt , it seeming not so much cut off , as transplanted ; nor destroyed , as transferred ; some comfort it is , when it comes so to passe , as may be seen in many others . To deduce then the house of Angus from the first originall thereof , 〈◊〉 is declared by our Writers , that Kenneth the second son to Alpine , the 69. King , having expelled the Picts out of his Kingdome ; did dispose of their Lands to his Noblemen , and such as had done him good service in the warres . In which distribution he gave the Province ( of old called O●…estia ) to two brothers , the elder of which was named Angus , or ( as B●…chanan ) Aeneas , and the younger Merns . These two brothers dividing that Province betwixt them , gave each of them his name to that half he possessed , and so of one they made two , calling the one Angus , and the other the Merns , as these Countreyes are so called at this present . This is the first Thane of Angus , from whom that Countrey took the name . 2. After him we read of other Thanes , as of Rohardus , Radardus , or Cadhardus , who slew Culenus ( the 79. King ) for ravishing his daughter . 3. Also there was one Cruthnetus ( in the reigne of Kenneth ; brother to Duffe , in the year 961. ) who was slain by Crathelint ; who was his own grand-childe by his daughter Fenella , or Finabella ; married to the Thane of the Merns . 4. Then we have one Sinel , ( in the reigne of Malcolm●… the second son to this Kenneth , who began his reigne 1104. and reigned 30 : years ) who married Do●… or Doada , younger daughter to King Malcolm●… , whose elder sister Beatrix , was married to Crinen , Thane of the Isles ; and principall of the Thanes , whom that age called Abthane . 5. Of this marriagé was procreat Mackbeth , or Mackbed , or Mac●…abee , Thane of Angus , and afterward King of Scotland , of whom the History is sufficiently knowne . 6. The last Thane was Luthlack , son to Mackbeth , who was installed King at Scone after his fathers death , but within three moneths he was encountered by King Malcolme ; and slain at Strabogie . This was about the year 1056 , or 57. And so much of the first period of the house of Angus , under the title of Thanes . The second period of the house of Angus , is under the title of Earles , before it come to the name of Stuart . The first is , one made Earle by King Malcolme , at the Parliament of Forfaire , where Boetius telleth expresly , that the Thane of Angus was made Earle of Angus . The next is in the dayes of King David ( called Saint David ) in the warres with Stephen King of England , in the battell at Alerton , where the Generall the Ea●… of Glocester was taken prisoner ; the Scottish Army is said to have been conducted by the Earles of March , Stratherne , and Angus , in the year 1136. or 37. but he is no●… named . The third is Gilchrist ( in the year 1153. ) in the reigne of Malcolme the maiden , who did good service against Sumerledus , Thane of Argyle , and being married to the Kings sister ; having found her false , put her to death ; and fearing the King , fled into England , and afterward was pardoned . Then we have John Cumin in the dayes of Alexander the second , in the year 1239. of whom wee read nothing , but that he was sent Ambassadour into France to Lewis then King , and that he died by the way before he had delivered his Ambassage : Boetius , 〈◊〉 . This was about 1330. The third period is in the surname of Stuarts ; of whom the first is one John Stuart entitled Earle of Angus , Lord of Boncle , and Abernethie , in a Charter given by him to Gilbert Lumsden of Blainerne , yet extant in the hands of the house of Blainerne . It is not dated , but the witnesses show the time , for Randolphus custos regni Scotiae is one . What this John was is uncertain , but in likelihood he hath been brother to Walter ( the seventh from the first Walter ) and sonne to John , and so also uncle to Robert the first King of that Name , for so the time doth bear , and his father John ( or himself ) married the heir of Boncle , and was slain at the battell of Falkirk in the year 1299. This John was slain at Halidoun hill , together with his brother James , and Alan●… . ( Bu●…h . lib. 9. ) 2. The second is , Thomas ( apparantly sonne to John ) who assisted the Earle of Douglas , and the Earle of March in their taking of Berwick , in the year 1357. or 58. he died in the Castle of Dumbartan , having bin imprisoned there , but for what , is not known . 3. Then Thomas again , father to Margaret Stuart Countesse of Marre and Angus . 4. Last of all Margaret Stuart , daughter to this Thomas , married first to Thomas Marre Earle of Marre in her fathers lifetime apparantly . And after her fathers death ( who died without heirs male ) she was heir to her father by the renunciation of her sister Elizabeth ( who was married afterward to Alexander Hamilton of Cadyowe ) and so she was Countesse of Marre and Angus , Dowager ( or Lady tercer ) of Marre , and inheritrix of the Earldome of Angus . Her first husband dying without issue , she was married after his death to William the first Earle of Douglas , she being his third wife ( as hath bin shewed ) in the year 1381. She was a kinde Lady to her friends , loving to her sister Elizabeth , and a carefull mother to her sonne George Earle of Angus . She is never designed Countesse of Douglas , either for distinction , being better known by her titles of Marre and Angus , or because these were more ancient , and no lesse honon●…able . She is the twelfth from Bancho , and tenth from Walter the first Stuart , and she is the last of that Name in the house of Angus . And thus much of the house of Angus in generall before it came to the Douglasses , of whom now it is time to speak . Of the first Earle of Angus of the Name of Douglas . Of William the first Earle of Douglas and Angus . WE shall do no wrong to reckon William ( the first Earle of Douglas ) as the first Earle of Angus , also of the Name of Douglas , seeing he married the inheritrix of Angus . Nay we should do him wrong to omit him , being the root from which all the rest are sprung . He was the first Earl of Douglas , and first Earl of Angus of the Name of Douglas , though it be true that he was 23. or 24. years Earl of Douglas before he came to be Earl of Angus , and that is all the difference betwixt the antiquitie of these two houses in the possession of that Name . Now that it was Earle William himself , and none else , it is evident by a bond made by the said Earle William to his sister Marjorie ( Countesse of Marre ) for the due payment of the said Marjories third , let to him and Margaret Stuart ( Countesse of Marre and Angus ) where he calls her his wife . Also that the same Earle William was father to George , it is clear by a Charter of Tutorie , and entaile made by Sir James Sandilands of West-Calder to George , in which Sir James speaking sayes thus , The Land of Calder were given to my father and mother of good memorie by my Lord Sir William Earle of Douglas and Marre his father : that is , father to George . Of the life of this William we have spoken in the house of Douglas , whither we referre the Reader . Of George Douglas , second Earle of that Name , and sonne to Margaret Stuart Countesse of Marre and Angus . GEorge his sonne entreth to the Earledome in the year 1389. the 9. of Aprile , a boy of seven or eight years old at most , for he was born but in 1381. which is the first year that we finde his father and his mother married . His mother resigned the Earledome of Angus in his favour at a Parliament in the aforesaid year 1389 , the 9. of April , so that he hath the title of Earle of Angus , from that time forth , notwithstanding his mother was alive . He had to wife Mary Stuart daughter to King Robert the third , being then about 16. or 17. years of age . All that we hear of him in our Histories is , that he was taken prisoner with the Earle of Douglas , at the battel of Homeldoun in the year 1402. When he died is uncertain , onely thus much we know , that his sonne William kept Courts as Earle in the year 1430. So he hath lived 42. or 43. years . And certainly he hath not lived long ; for aster his death Mary Stuart his wife was twice married , first to the Lord Kennedie , and bare to him John Lord Kennedie , and James Arch-bishop of Saint Andrews , who are called brothers to his sonne George Earle of Angus . Then she was married to the Lord John Grahame of Dindaffe-moore , and bare to him Patrick Grahame Bishop also of Saint Andrews , and James Grahame first Laird of Fintrie . His children were William and George , both Earles of Angus afte●… him . Of William the third Earle of Angus , and second of that Name ( of William ) TO George succeeded William his sonne by Mary Stuart , as all our writers do testifie , and all men acknowledge , He was amongst those that were committed to prison by King James the first , in the year 1424. After this he was employed to receive the Castle of Dumbarre , when the Earle of March was imprisoned , in the year 1435. the 29. of King James the first his Raigne , he was made warden of the middle March. In the year 1436. he was sent against Percie , who , either by private authority , or publick allowance , had entred Scotland with 4000. he was about the same number : and had with him in company men of note , Adam Hepburne of Hales , Alexander Ramsay of Dalhousie , Sir Gilbert Johnstoun of Elphinston . They fought at Piperdain or Piperdean ( as say Boetius and Holinshed ) perhaps Harpardean by Hadington : for we see that most of them are Lowthian-men that are remarked to be in his company , yet it is hard to think that Percie could come so farre in with so few . The Earle of Angus was there victor , beginning his first Warres upon Percie , fatall to the Name belike . There were 〈◊〉 of the English 400. together with Sir Henry Cliddisdale , Sir John Ogle , Sir Richard Percie Knights ; taken prisoners 1500. Of the Scots one onely of note was slaine , Sir Gilbert Johnstoun of Elphinston ( Buchanan cals him Alexander , but amisse ) a gentleman of singular approved vertue ( sayes Buchanan ) and Boetius tells the manner , while he pursues the enemy too eagerly . Before this , Archbald Earle of Douglas , and Wigton was gone into France male-contented with the government , having been twice committed prisoner , to receive his Dukedome of Turaine . Every mis-hap is good for some body : that gave occasion and way to this employment , for while the house of Douglas was present , who but they for service against England ? who but they were able to do it ? Now they being absent , who but a Douglas ? A branch of that tree , and not long since come of it , especially being the Kings Cousin so near . So they begin , and so they shall continue with the like vertue . We hear not whom he married , nor any thing of his children , save of his sonne James who did succeed to him . Neither is it known when he died precisely : onely we finde that he was dead before the 1437. the 27. of Februarie . So that reckoning from the first year of his fathers marriage ( in the 1398. ) he hath lived some 41. years in all , and 13. years Earle , from the 1424. Of James the fourth Earle of Angus of the surname of Douglas . AFter William , his sonne James was Earle . Our warrand is a writ ; where he is served heir to William his father in Killiemoore , of the date 1437. Febr. 27. some 6. or 7. years after the death of King James the first . There are also diverse other writs of this kinde extant ▪ which do witnesse that he hath been , but of no use in publick , or for historie . Whither ever he was married , or had any children we hear nothing . He dieth before the year 1452. There is one thing not to be omitted , which is a bo●…d of Robert Fleming of Cummernald , to him ( where he is entitled James Earle of Angus Lord of Liddisdale , and Jedward Forrest ) to enter within the iron gate of the Castle of Tantallon or Hermitage , under the pain of 2000 ▪ marks upon eight dayes warning . The cause is subjoyned , because he had burnt the Earles Corne within the Baronie of North-Berwick , and taken away his Cattell there on Fasting-even , or Shrove-tuesday . It is dated in the year 1444. the 24. of September . This burning is a token of no good will even then betwixt the house of Angus , and the house of Douglas , whereof the Lord Fleming was a follower . Even then , I say , before the time of William slain at Stirlin . For this seemes to have fallen out about the time of Grosse James , or ( it may be ) in the beginning of Earle William . But it is hard to conceive how this man ( a depender of the Earles of Douglas ) should thus farre have bowed himself , and it is a token , that the Earle of Angus authority hath not been small . Howsoever , on these grounds we restored him to his own place , being left out altogether by all other that I have seen . Of George Douglas , the second George and fifth Earle of Angus . TO James succeeded his uncle George , by the consent of our whole writers , who ( all ) speaking of King James the second , call this George the Kings fathers sisters sonne . So the King and he , are brother and sisters children . We need not to impugne the received op●…nion ; The time and computation of years will admit it sufficiently , for though he were born two years after his fathers marriage 1400. yet shall he not passe 63. at his death . Neither doth any other thing that I know of , hinder us from beleeving this deduction . Wherefore we will follow them , though we have no other monument to testifie so much expressely , or to hinder him from being sonne to James . There is this scruple in it , that Buchanan calls James Kennedie ( Arch-bishop of Saint Andrews ) of greater age then George Douglas . Which if it be true , then George could not be his brother , for their mother was first married to Angus . We have monuments of him as Earle in the year 1452. May 24. and in the 1461. the last of September ; and of his sonne retoured heir to him in the 1463. So that he hath been Earle about 10. or 11 years . But our histories say it was he that assisted Creightoun to spoile the Earle Douglas Lands of Strabroke , &c. from about 1445. or 46. years , and so his time shall be 17. years . He married Elizabeth Sibauld daughter to Sibauld of Balgonie Treasurer of Scotland for the time , profitably , and not dishonourably . For his place of Treasurer was a place of credit and honour , and himself descended of honourable race , viz. the Earles of Northumberland ; who were of that name in the dayes of Malcolme Ke●…more , and Grandfather to the said Malcolme by his mother , and had the leading of the English Army that was sent in for his aide against Mackbeth , to the number of 10000. men . We finde also the name of Sibards in the dayes of King Alexander the second to have been in good account , of whom Buchanan writes that they entertained feed against the Earle of Athol , as also that the said Earle of Athol being burnt in his lodging in Hadinton , the chief of the Sibards whom he calleth William , without any further designation ( Boetius calleth him John ) being suspected thereof because of their known enmity , was called in question for it , and arraigned . And although he proved by the testimonie of the Queen , that he was in Forfaire at that time ( some 60. miles from Hadinton ) yet the Judge thought not this sufficient to absolve him , because the other party alledged that his servants and followers had been seen very many of them in the Town . And although he offered to purge himself by combat , it could not be accepted : Whereupon he fearing the power of his adverse party ( which were the Cumins ) fled into Ireland with a number of his name . By which relation it appears that this name hath been in good account , and this marriage no way disparageable . It was also profitable in effect , but more in hope , which was to have succeeded heir to the estate of Balgonie , both Lands and Moveables , she being his onely daughter , and he himself and his Lady of good age , the Contract also being made so that he should be heir , failing heirs male of his own body , whereof there was small appearance ; Yet ( as it often falls out in such cases , the Divine providence eluding humane wisedome , that they may know that there is a directing and over-ruling wisedome and power above theirs ) that hope was disappointed . His mother in law dieth , his father in law marrieth a second wife , and by her hath heirs male to inherite his Lands . I think if he had known what was to come , he would not have done it . And yet is Balgonie disappointed also , for his sonne had but one daughter who was married to Lundie , and so transferred it from the name , where he thought to have settled it . Angus gets with his Lady . 3000. Marks of portion , no small summe in those dayes when portions we●…e little and the terms of payment long . His children were Archbald , and another son ▪ whose name we have not . Some tell us of James Earle of Angus , and Lord Warden of the borders . But when should he have been Earl of Angus ? for Archbald succeeded to George ; and to Archbald his grand-childe Archbald . The truth is this James was before son to William , as hath been said ; yet it may be that he hath had a son named James also , though Writers do not name him . He had foure daughters ; first Elizabeth , married to Robert Grahame of Fintrie ; second Margaret , to Duncan Campbell ; third Giles ; and fourth Alison , of whose marriage there is no mention . He had also a son naturall , of whom are descended the house of Bonjedward . His daughters were not married in his own time ( belike they have been young ) but their brother in the year 1476. contracts with Robert Grahame of Fintrie , to marry his sister Elizabeth , failing her , Margaret ; and failing Margaret , Giles ; and failing Giles , Alison ; so soon as a dispensation can be obtained , for they were within the degrees then forbidden , she being the third from Mary Stuart the Kings Daughter , and Robert Grahame in the same degree ( belike ) son to James Grahame . The portion is 400. Marks . Margaret was married to Duncan Campbell ( we know not of what house ) in the year 1479. Her brother contracts for 600. Marks , and findes Robert Douglas of Loghleven , and Alexander Ramsay of Dalhousie suretie for it . Her mother gives her bond for their relief . To return to Earle George , we finde that he was a man very well accomplished ; of personage tall , strong , and comely : Of great wisedome , and judgement . He is also said to have been eloquent . He was valiant and hardie in a high degree . His father ( carrying the name of George also ) we saw how by his mothers help he raised and advanced the house many wayes , almost doubling the estate of it , as it was before him , this man reares it up a great deal higher upon the ruines of the house of Douglas : yet doth he also diminish his own patrimonie and revenues of Angus , whiles to gain service and dependancie , he bestowes liberally , chiefly his lands of Angus , for he redacted the greatest part thereof from propertie , to superioritie onely , there being above 24. Barons , and Lords in Angus , that hold their lands of the Earles of Angus . His determination was fully to follow the King , though against his Chief and Cousin . But the King who had espoused the quarrell , and made the Earle Douglas party , was nearer to him in bloud , and therefore reason inclined his minde more to him . Besides he was a King , duety required his assistance . Hope also swayed the ballance greatly : There is hope of a Kings liberality , chiefly when Lands come in dealing and parting . And he being a Douglas , and the Lands having belonged to a Douglas , he had great probabilitie to expect a large share in them . For to whom could they b●… given so justly and pertinently ? His brother Bishop 〈◊〉 could well egge him on . There was no hope of rising for him , that huge tree of Douglas standing which over-topt all others , and over-shadowed the whole borders , and almost the whole Kingdome . He was younger ( this Bishop ) than Angus , but wise , vertuous , learned , and of authority : Experience also had given occasion of late to think that the house of Douglas drew all to themselves . The maiden of Galloway ( the Earle of Wigtons daughter ) was thought fittest to have been matched to some other Douglas being near to the Earle ( as was thought then ) and the house too great already in the Kings eyes , not to beaugmented . But he would none of such wisedome , he marrieth her himself , and disappoints them all , who could look for any rising by these mens means ? Or in their standing in such greatnesse ? yet the cause seems to go higher than the Kings cause . For even when the Earle of Douglas had the Kings authority on his side , and Creighton was denounced Rebell , Angus assists Creighton against the Kings authority . Wherefore in all likelihood the course hath begun in King James the firsts time . Then hath the house of Angus entred into friendship with Creighton in the dayes of William Earle of Angus , which hath continued in the time of Earle James his sonne , whose Lands Robert Fleming therefore did burn and spoile in the Baronie of North-Berwick . And now that course begun then , is here prosecuted by Earle George to the utmost point . A pitie of such dissention in these houses , or one house rather , against which if it had not been thus divided in it self , their enemies could hardly have prevailed . For it cannot be denyed but the house of Douglas had great wrong , and was treacherously dealt with by Creighton , neither did it ever intend any thing against the King ; but the King was drawn to the partie against it : though in the good cause of it , it committed errours , it is to be pitied , and lamented ; for who doth not . Also George Earle of Angus declares not himself openly against the house of Douglas for a time . The support that he is said to have given to William Creighton is said to have been done covertly at the spoiling of Strabroke and Abercorne . Neither after that , untill such time as the King declared himself openly , slew William Earle Douglas at Stirlin , and made open Warre against James who succeeded to him . Then he also declared for the King , and bent his whole force and power to aide him . He had that same year before 1452. the 24. of May , taken a course for keeping good order in his Countrey of Liddesdale , and to keep his Castle of the Hermitage safe for him , and that his folks should do no hurt to others , nor receive any of the enemies . He had for that purpose made Sir Archbald Douglas of Cavers ( Sheriffe of Roxbrough ) and William his sonne , Bailiffs of Liddesdale , and keepers of the Castle , who undertook , and bound themselves to do what we have said , for which he allowed them a large recompence and reward , as the Indenture thereof ( yet extant ) doth testifie . He is stiled in it Warden of the east marches , William Earle of Douglas being then alive . Some give unto him the honour of the battell in which the Earle Douglas was defeated in Annandale , where the Earle Murray was slain , and Ormond taken in the year 1455. Others attribute all to the Lord Carlile , and Johnston . But however that was , in the year 1457. he defeated the said Earle , and Henrie Percie Earle of Northumberland on the east border ( which was his wardenrie ) in a bloudy battell . For the Earle of Douglas , and Northumberland ( a fatall Warriour to the Douglasses ) having conveened an Army , and come to the Merse , began to spoile and burn the Countrey . But the Earle of Angus set upon the Forragers and drave them to the hoast . The Earles moved with this indignitie ( though many that were gone out to forrage were not yet come in ) advanced and presented him battell , which he also accepted . After a sharp conflict on both sides with a greater courage and spite than strength , the victorie , which a long time was doubtfull which way to incline , at last fell to the Earle of Angus , not without some losse . The number of the slain was equall , but the English were put to flight , and many of them made prisoners . A chief cause of this defeat was the suddennesse of the enemie in giving battell , and his not staying for the rest that were abroad , and had been sent out to forrage the Countrey . For they being laden with bootie , when they heard the noise of the fight , were so farre from coming to succour their fellows , that for fear of loosing what they had gotten , they took their way directly home into England . This victorie did not a little recreate the King , being wearied both with civill and forraine Warre . For this service , which was exceeding pleasing and acceptable , the King gives him a new Charter of the Lordship of Douglas , upon a resignation , which he had gotten before when the Earle Douglas was forfeited . What other Lands he got we have no speciall mention . So the Earle Douglas being now forfeited , his brother slain , himself banished , and with small either effect , or effort , entertaining hostility by small incursions , rather than doing any thing for the advan●…ing of his main businesse , the face of the world was quite changed . The Earle of Angus was now made Lord of Douglas ; and howbeit he came somewhat short of that huge greatnesse and puissance of the former , yet was he nothing inferiour in place of authority , in credit and account , in action and employment , as we said in the beginning . Nothing was done but by him , and under his shadow . Bishop Kennedie had the greatest vogue ; he upheld the Bishop by his power , and by him men did come to finde favour , and did seek to have credit . We will set down two examples for all the rest , but those remarkeable , and sufficient to show of what great account and authority he hath been . The one is of our own Nation , the other of a Forrainer . The first is in the same year 1457. the 13. of May. We heard of James Lord Hamilton a faithfull , franke , and forward friend for the Earle Douglas , so long as he was a friend to himself by any action . He leaving himself , Hamilton also left him : I mean , seeing the Earle had lost that so sair occasion ( if not to cast the Dice for the Crown , as the Lord Hamilton said to him ) yet to cast the Dice for the victory , and to give or take conditions of peace , which he had at Abercorne , being moe in number than the King ; the Lord Hamilton was come in to the King upon this , that same night . He was received by the King , but not greatly credited , for he was committed to Rosselin ( a Castle then of the Earle of Orkneyes ) and afterwards ( say our writers ) freinds interceding for him , he was released out of prison , and received into most inward friendship . Thus sarre they go , but what friends these were , or how the friendship was made they do not tell . The Earle of Angus evidents tell us ; and show that it hath been he that did him this friendly office . For whether before to move him to intercede for him , or after in token of thankfulnesse ( though it be most likely it was after , because it is done at Tantallon , which must be after his releasement out of Rosselin ) he giveth to this Earle George a memorable remembrance . He , I say , being a noble man , and a notable active man besides , gives him his bond of service ( or Manreid ) and that in ample forme , and submisse terms , excepting none but the King and Queen . And that I may not seeme to speak without a warrant in so great a matter , scarce to be beleeved of some , and that I do rather amplifie things than set down the naked truth , I will set down the very words of the band , as it is extant in the hands of the Earle of Angus , which now is copied word by word , that every man may judge of it , as he thinks good . Be it knowne to all men by thir present Letters , me James Lord Hamilton , &c. to be comen , and by these presents to become Man of speciall service and retinue , for all the dayes of my life-time , to an high and mighty Lord George Earle of Angus , Lord Douglas , and Warden of the East and middle marches of Scotland , foregainst England . Before , and against all them that live , or die may ; mine allegeance to our soveraigne Lord the King , and my band of service to our soveraigne Lady the Queen Mary now present , allanerly out-tane . Promising all and sundry dutifull points in bands of retinue contained , to observe and keep to my Lord foresaid , as effeirs , for all the said time . In witnesse of the which thing I have gard set my seale . At Tantallon the 13. day of the moneth of May , the year of our Lord 1457 , &c. It hath been no small matter , nor small authoritie of him to whom it is given , that hath moved such a man to give such a Band. His credit hath been great , and Hamilton hath either received great benefit at his hand , or expected to receive some . I take it , that he hath procured his libertie , and obtained to him that favour in Court that our Writers speak of , to be of the Kings inward friends . I suppose also that kinred hath been of some moment to move him to it . The reason of my conjecture is , because we have heard before , that Elizabeth , sister to Margaret ( Countesse of Marre and Angus , and Grandmother to this Earle George ) was married to Sir Alexander Hamilton of Cadyow ( as some call him ) by which mean this James Lord Hamilton might be third from her , and the Earle of Angus and he Cousins twice removed , or fourths in kin , as we speak . But this I referre to them that have the monuments of that House . However , what more honour could have been done to the great House of Douglas in the greatest grandour thereof , than what is here done to the House of Angus ? Neither is it any dishonour to him that doth it . It is but folly to think so : Houses have their beginning and grouth : Mine to day , thine to morrow . This same Lord Hamilton by these beginnings , within a few years ( 17. or 18. at most ) shall lay such grounds of greatnesse , as shall lift his House above any subjects , to the very top of all , so as to have the Crown entailed to his Posteritie , and to enjoy it for a while as Regent and Governour . Let us remember the changes of the world , and the vicissitudes of Fortune , and let every man bear with patience , and hear with calmnesse , either what he is now , or what he was before . And this for the first domestick witnesse of honour and authoritie , credit and greatnesse of the House of Angus in this mans person . The other amongst Forrainers was greater ; which is this : The King of England , Henry the sixth , being overthrowne , and put out of his Kingdome and Countrey of England by the Duke of York , Edward the fourth ; he , and his son , and his Queen being come into Scotland for refuge , he indents with George Earle of Angus for his assistance , to help to restore him to his Kingdome , and bindes himself to give unto George Earle of Angus , and his heires , Lands lying betwixt Trent and Humber , worth 2000. Marks sterling of yearly rent . 2. That he should erect it in a Dutchie , and infeft the said Earle therein , in as free Knight-service as any Land in England ; and that the Earle , and his heires , should be Dukes thereof . 3. That in time of peace between Scotland and England , it should be lawfull for the said Earle , to repaire to England to his Dutchie , or to Court , or where he pleased , with an hundred horse in train . 4. And that if there happened to be warre betwixt the Countreyes , it should be lawfull for him to send 24. armed men , who should be under the King of England his protection , to gather and up-lift for his use , the rents and revenues of the said Dutchie . 5. That it should be lawfull for him , during the warres between the two Countreyes , to serve the King of Scotland ; which should no wayes prejudice him in the enjoying of his Lands ; neither should it be a cause of forfeiture or unlaw . 6. That he should not be bound to answer in person to the Parliaments of England , or any other Court of Justice ; and that neither he , nor his Tenants , should be fined for his non-compearance . 7. That this Indenture should be showne to the Pope , and ratified by him . And so it was ; sealed and subscribed with a ( Henry ) as long as the whole sheet of Parchment , the worst shapen letters , and the worst put together that I ever saw . And ( as I beleeve ) it hath a particular Letter of confirmation of the Pope in the hands of the Earle of Angus . It is thought that when William Earle of Douglas went secretly into England , that his errand was to this , or some such purpose , to have made a proffer of his service to King Henry , on these or the like conditions . For even then the seeds of civill discord were sowne , and began to bud forth . But either because things were not as yet come to any ripenesse , or for that the Earle of Douglas was fallen into disgrace with his Prince , nothing was done . Now about the year 1460. ( in the minoritie of King James the third ) King Henry came into Scotland , and did thus transact with the Earle of Angus ; A rare thing , and whereof the like example is hard to be found in any subject , except it be the Earle of Douglas , concerning the Dutchie of Turaine with the King of France , which is not unlike in many things . Howsoever , this shews how little inferiour the house of Angus hath been to the house of Douglas in credit and authority at home and abroad . This Indenture took no effect , it being now too late , and King Henries estate brought to so low an ebbe , that both his friends and his fortune having forsaken , and turned their backs upon him , his aide could not suffice against the whole power of England to make head against King Edward , and to stoppe the current of his victories . Notwithstanding Angus gave him a taste of what he could have done for him , and shewed him in a notable exploite , how available his service would have been , if his case had not been desparate , and past recovery . Which though it were not rewarded with a Dutchie , yet doth it not want , nor ever shall want the due reward of high praise and honour as one of the hardiest , and greatest interprises , that hath been atcheived by any subject . The Queen ( King Henries wife ) had obtained of her friends in France a few souldiers , 300. of which were in the Castle of Anwick with Monsieur Brissac their commander . King Edward following his victories , and that he might prevent or suppresse any commotion that might arise in the North parts , or out of Scotland was come to Durhame with a great Army . He himself remaining in the Town , sent abroad his Commanders to take in all such Castles as stood good for King Henry . Amongst others he sent the Earle of Warwick to besiege Anwick with 20000. men . He had another Army lying about Bambrough not far off from this , and a third besieging another Town . King Henry ( and more especially his Queen ) being very solicitous , for the French men dealt with the Earle of Angus very instantly to have them relieved . He promised to do his best , and performed no lesse than he promised . He assembled to the number of 10000. horse , amongst whom there were 500. empty horses or moe ( for commonly the best appointed have ever two horses for service ) upon which he might mount the French-men , and bring them away . So he marches toward Anwick , and when he came within a little space of the Castle , he ranged his men in order of battell in the sight of the English Army , making show as if he would have invaded them , or at least that he meant to bide them battell if they should offer to set upon him , or hinder him in his purposed businesse . In the meane time he sent those 500. spare horse conducted by some choice troups to a posterne of the Castle to receive the French , and so brought them away . Some of the the English esteeming it a great affront , to suffer them to be carried away in such sort from under their noses , advised the Earle of Warwick to stay them . But he was resolute in the contrary , and told them , that he had no commission to fight . And ( sayes he ) who knowes what more aide these may have near hand in the parke , or some other place . And suppose they have not , these are certainly all choice men able enough to sustaine our charge . They cannot take the Castle with them into Scotland ; let them take the men , I shall get the Castle , which is all that my commission bears . And so he lets them go , who returned into Scotland with the French men , an acceptable present chiefly to the Queen of England . This was a fair assay and preamble of his ensuing services , which being prevented by King Henries destinie , and his death , were smothered in the cradle , and his Dutchie engrossed in parchment to have lien betwixt Trent and Humber , is confined to a narrower precinct within the compasse of a Coffer . Notwithstanding of this greatnesse and power , to make him yet stronger , and more puissant on the borders , he did excambe his Lands in the Maines and Clarberon with Robert Grahame of old Monrosse , and got for them the Lands of Eskedale upon the border . He contracted his sonne Archbald , and his heir apparant to Catherine daughter to Alexander Earle of Huntly , or to any other of his daughters which the said George should choose . The portion 2000. markes , the termes of payment 10. years , 100. markes every terme . That if Archbald should die , his brother ( whom the Indenture doth not name ) should marrie one of the said Earle of Huntlies daughters . That the Earle of Angus should give his sonne 100. mark Land in Angus . That Archbald after he be seven years old shall be given to the Earle of Huntly , and the Earle of Huntlies daughter to the Earle of Angus . The Indenture is dated at Saint Andrews 1461. the last of September . This marriage took no effect , what ever were the cause thereof . Either before or after this there fell out a dissention amongst the Estates about the choosing of a governour and protectour for the young King James the third . In which he and his brother Bishop Kennedie with the greatest part of the Nobilitie , opposed themselves to the Queen , who pretended to be Tutrix , and had now usurped that place a year , while as the Nobilitie being busied in the Warres , had no leasure to look into these things . The Queene and such as followed her remained in the Castle , and the other party in the Abbey of Halyroodhouse . A Convention being appointed , the Queene and her faction came to the Parliament house , and declared her Tutrix , So soon as this was known , the Earle of Angus , and James Kennedie came up to the market place , where the said Bishop declares that their intention was nothing else but to maintain their old law , and the ancient practice of the Countrey , which was that in such cases the Nobilitie should choose one whom they thought most fit to undergo that charge of governing , which was for the good both of the King and Countrey , whereas they of the other party intended nothing but their own particular advantage , as he should show more evidently , in time and place convenient . After this speech , as they retired to their lodging , they were advertised that those who were in the Castle with the Queen , were coming down in armes to assault them , or to have hindered them from making this declaration . The Earle of Angus thinking it a great indignitie , that they being more in number , and better in qualitie , should give place to the weaker , and the meaner and inferiour partie , and that in such sort as might seeme to be a direct flight , could scarce be retained , but that he would needs turne upon them and fight , though he were not armed , as they were . But the matter was composed by the mediation of the Bishops of Glasgow , Galloway , and Dumblane , and assurance given for a moneth . After the expiring whereof , having entred into a new consultation , with more peaceable and calme mindes , both parties agreed , that the King and Countrey should be governed by foure Noblemen , two of which should be chosen out of the Queenes partie , and two out of the other . For the Queen she chose William Lord Grahame , and Robert Lord Boyd , then Chancellour ; for the oother side they chose Robert Earle of Orkney , and John Lord Kennedie , all chief of their Name and Families . Here is no mention of the Earle of Angus , which makes me think he hath died in this mean time , during the Truce , otherwise being principall of this other side , they would not have neglected him . Sure he died much about this time , which seemes to have been in the year 1462. Neither did his brother Bishop Kennedies businesse go so well after this . He was buried in Abernethie amongst his Predecessours . His wife ( after his death ) is said to have married a younger brother of the Captain of Crawford , and that she got from her sonne Archbald the Lands of Balmoodie in Fife , and that the house of Balmoodie is descended of her . Which notwithstanding , we finde her binde her self for relief of her sonne for the payment of her daughters portion , 1479. as a free person making no mention of a husband . It is true he might also have been dead ; then the space being 17. or 18. years . But if her sonne were so liberall as to give her such Lands , he would never have troubled her to binde her self for his relief in the payment of his sisters portion in likelihood . Of the first Archbald , sixth Earle of Angus , called commonly , Bell the Cat. TO George succeeded Archbald his sonne and heir , a boy about 5. or 6. years of age at the most . For in the year 1461. the last of September , he is not 7. as appears by the Indenture made betwixt his father and the Earle of Huntly concerning his marriage . It took no effect : but in place thereof he marries EliZabeth Boyde , daughter to Robert Lord Boyde , then one of the Governours of Scotland , viz. in the year 1468. the fourth of May. Which makes it seem that the match hath not failed on the Earle of Huntlies part , but on his , or at least theirs to whose tuition he hath been committed . They , or hee preferring credit at Court before their keeping and fulfilling of the Contract made by his father . But it was little to their advantage , for the next year after that the Court was changed , the Boydes were discarded ; his brother in law Thomas Boyde ( sonne to Robert ) banished , and his wife ( the Kings sister ) taken from him , and his brother Alexander Boyde execute . As for their father Lord Robert himself , he fled into England . And this is all the fruits he reaps by his marrying for Court. He was by this our calculation 14. years of age at the most ; and yet his Lady gets seasing of Abernethie upon his resignation the same year the 1. of May. It is not unlikely that one William Douglas of Clunie hath had some hand in the guiding of his minoritie , for we finde that the wardship of the Lands of Tantallon , and Earledome of Douglas was given to him ; and he having again resigned it into the Kings hands , the King makes a new disposition thereof to Archbald , non obstante non aetate ejusdem , notwithstanding his nonage , which was then 16. years 1470. the 26. of June . Six years after , he hath care of his sisters Contracts by himself with Fintrie for one of them ; and three years after that he takes upon him the burden for his mother , and hath her bound for his relief 1479. as hath been said in his fathers life , being then about 25. years of age . This dutifulnesse towards his sisters , deserves that he should be blessed with children of his own , and that he should have good successe in his affairs who begins so well . And so it was with him : for he had by his wife foure sonnes ; and three daughters , all honourably provided . His sonnes were , first George called commonly Master of Angus , because he came never to be Earle , being slain at Flowdon before his father died . The second , Sir William of Glenbarvie , who married Elizabeth Authenleck , heir of Glenbarvie . Third Gawin , who was Bishop of Duncale , a man of singular wisedome and prudencie , and well lettered according to the times . This 〈◊〉 had a base daughter , of whom the house of Foulewood ( Semple ) is descended . We shall have occasion to speak something of him in the life of Archbald his brothers son , in whose time he lived . The Duke of Albanie being Governour , having conceived some jealousie against the Earle of Angus , and the Douglasses , whereupon Angus was sent to France , and his uncle this Bishop was sent for to Rome by letters from the Pope , at the Governours procuring , to answer to such accusations as were given in against him . As he was going thither , he was seased of the plague at London in the year 1522 ▪ and died there ; leaving behinde him great approbation of his vertues , and love of his person , in the hearts of all good men . For besides the nobilitie of his birth , the dignitie and comelinesse of his personage , he was learned , temperate , and of singular moderation of minde ; and in thefe so turbulent times , had alwayes carried himself amongst all the Factions of the Nobilitie equally , and with a minde to make peace , and not to stir up parties ; which qualities were very rare in a Clergie-man of those dayes . He wrote in his native tongue diverse things . But his chiefest work is the translation of Virgil , yet extant in verse , in which he ties himself so strictly as is possible , and yet it is so well expressed , that whosoever shall assay to do the like , will finde it a hard piece of work to go through with . In his Prologues before every Book , where he hath his libertie , he sheweth a naturall , and ample vein of poesie , so pure , pleasant , and judicious , that I beleeve there is none that hath written before , or since , but cometh short of him . And in my opinion , there is not such a piece to be found , as is his Prologue to the 8. Book , beginning ( of Dreams and of Drivelings &c. ) at least in our language . The fourth son was Archbald Douglas of Kilspindie , who married a daughter of one Little in Edinburgh . He had by her Archbald of Kilspindie , who was Provest of Edinburgh in King James the fifth his minoritie , and was married to the Earle of Crawford his daughter , by whom he had first Patrick , secondly Alexander , and thirdly James . Patrick was married to one Murray , a daughter of the house of Balbaird , by whom he had William . After that he married Agnes , daughter to the Lord Gray , and had by her two sons , and two daughters . And thus much of his sons . His daughters were first Marjori●… , married to Cudbert Lord of Kilmaers in the year 1491. Her portion was 1700. Marks . Secondly , Elizabeth , married to Robert Lile Lord Chief Justice . Her portion was 1000. Marks , whereof 100. pounds was to be payed at the first Terme , and then 50. pounds termely till all were payed . It is with dispensation , which is a signe that they have been in kin before the year 1493. Thirdly , Jennet , whom we finde contracted to Robert Lord Harris , in the year 1495. Novemb. 22. to be married , and that he 〈◊〉 divorce from the wife he had , so soon as can be . That she in the mean time shall not marry elsewhere . For which caufe she is infeft in his Lands of Tarrigla , with the Kings confirmation past thereupon , the same year and day . Her portion is , that the said Earle then Chancellour , shall procure his Lands to be new holden of the King. This fact , for a man to contract to part with the wife he hath , and marry another , as it is harsh to conceive , so being done so solemnely by such persons , we must suppose it had sufficient and honest grounds . For certainly the Earle of Angus , being withall Chancellour for the time ; needed not to hunt after unlawfull or unseemly marriages for his daughters . Some reckon a fourth daughter , whom they name not , but say she was eldest , and married to the Earle of Montrose , this Earles great Grandfathers father : but because I have not seen any monument of her , I reserved her to the last place . He had also sundry bastard sonnes after his wifes death . First William of the Parkhead , of whom the house of the Parkhead is come , and the Lord of Torthorrell by his mother . Secondly James of Tod-holes : And thirdly one that ( they say ) was gotten in Glenbarvie , born after his decease . But this seemes to be false , because they affirm commonly , that a●…ter the field of Flowdon ( where his sonne George was slain ) he went into Galloway to Saint Maines , and lived the space of a year an austere life . Then he was not thus incontinent , if that be true , neither came he to Glenbarvie , seeing he lived in Galloway . He had also a base daughter . And thus much of his children . To come to himself : we have heard how his father Earle George raised the house of Angus to such greatnesse of credit and authoritie , that it was become not much inferiour to the house of Douglas , to which it had succeeded . Archbald his son did no way diminish it . But when he came to be of years fit for managing affairs , he so behaved himself , and gained so good opinion of his wisedome and courage , that the whole burden of the estate of the Countrey did lye upon him 〈◊〉 . And for that cause chiefly he is commonly designed by the epithete of The great Earle of Angus . For as touching his Lands and Rents , we finde no great augmentation of them , save that he provided his children well . If we consider the means , it hath been his own worth and sufficiencie that hath brought him to it : for he began indeed his marriage with Court , as a fit mean whereby to rise ; but that lasted but short while , as we have heard . The Court changing , it was rather a mean to have wrought him discredit . Notwithstanding of which , and though he was young himself , we finde nothing , but that his businesse went right . He got his own wardship , even when his alliance were at the hardest pinch , that same very year that Thomas Boyd had his wife taken from him , and married to another . His successe in the marriage of his sisters doth also show the same . Neither hear wee of any hard effect that their dis-courting did produce toward him . It was he that was the chief actor in taking order with Robert Cochran , and the other Courtiers , that did abuse the King and Countrey . He propounds the matter to the Nobilitie , he opens up the estate of things , he puts hand to work , and executes what was concluded . The rest consent , and follow , he goeth before in every thing . And even then when he did all this , he was of no great age , not above five and twentie ; and yet his credit , power , and authoritie , was able to go through with it . The History is written at length in our Chronicle , we need do no more but transume it . Neither is it necessary that we do that to the full , it will suffice to set down onely what is requisite for laying open the occasion and circumstances for clearing of the fact , that the Reader may the better discerne the right from the wrong , which otherwise lye confused . Thus it was . King James the third of that name , a man of a great and high spirit , and of a hastie nature , and prone to anger , and such a one as would not suffer patiently his own judgement to be contradicted , could not away with that freedome of speech , which he found in his Nobilitie : wherefore hee made choice of such to be about him , as would not correct , but approve all his sayings , and who would not offend him by gainsaying , but did curie ▪ favour by soothing of him , and who with flattering admiration did extoll all that he said , or did . Wherefore excluding the Nobilitie , he was wholly at the devotion of a few of his servants with whom he advised , and consulted of all busines , and either followed their opinions , or made them to consent , and ex●…cute his will. Thus he began to do about the year 1474. having after his marriage ( in the year 1470. ) addicted himself most part to his domesticke , and private pleasures , seldome coming abroad , or giving time to the affaires of his Kingdome . He had gotten about him base men both in place and worth , whom he had advanced to honours , and nobilitated . Amongst these there was one Robert Coghran a Mason by his trade , whom he made Earle of Marre , An English singing man called William Rogers , whom he honoured with Knight-hood , with diverse others of meane rank and qualitie , whose chief commendation was that they were impudently wicked , and villanous . This Rogers is thought also to have been his Pander , and an enticer of him to lewdnesse and wronging his Queen . Amongst these base men , there was one Gentleman of good birth , but he seeing the Kings inclination , had set himself fully to follow it in all things ; wherefore he had given his daughter to Robert Coghran in marriage as a bond of friendship and soci●…tie , his name was Thomas Preston . There was also a young page John Ramsay , who was of the same combination . These were the Kings Minions , Counsellours , and whole confidence . On these he reposed , and cast the burden of affaires . Their hopes were built upon the ruine of the Nobilitie , that by their fall they themselves might rise . These were Counsellours and Executioners of the murder of his younger brother John ; and had caused him to commit his other brother Alexander to prison in the Castle , who had died likewise , if he had not found means to escape in the night , by making a rope of his bed-clothes , and so got over the wall . To these great evils there were joyned worse things . He had given himself to seek responses , and predictions of things to come , chiefly concerning his own estate , of Magiciens , and Witches . He had for that purpose brought one out of Flanders that was thought very skilfull in divining , named Andrew a Physician by profession , and Astrologer . This man had given the Kings Ambassadours some proof of his cunning when they went through Flanders to the Duke of Burgundie . He hearing whether they were going , told them they needed not to make any great haste , for they should hear news of the Duke ere it were long . And so they did indeed , for within three dayes they heard that he was slain . When they came home they related this to the King , extoll his skill , and inflame his minde ; which was too prone of it self , with desire to hear him . So he was sent for , and being come , was presented with many rich gi●…ts . And good reason he should , if he could withall have instructed the King how to avoide the evils that were to come . But meerly to foretell evill which could not be shunned , it was too dear bought evil tidings . Yet that is all he doth , tels him that his own should be his ruine . The King interprets it of his brethren , his kins-men , and his subjects , especially the chief of the Nobilitie . Whereupon being suspicious and jealous of all others , he trusted none but his foresaid Minions . By these doings he makes way for the fates , by slaying or warding his brother , he irritates the Nobilitie , he suspecting them , and being suspected of them by a mutuall fear . They to secure themselves , put hand into the Courteours who were the authours of these evils ; he interprets that to be Rebellion against himself , and seeks how to be revenged . They for their safety are driven from point to point , constrained by necessitie for the preservation of their lives , cast off all respect , and take Arms openly , drawes his sonne to the party ( his own nearest according to his responses ) whereon ensues his ruine . This is the effect of seeking to Magiciens and sooth-sayers , whereof we seldome hear a better end . And it is but deservedly , that those that leave the authour and fountaine of all good ▪ who guides all by his providence , to follow follies and superstition , and the authour of all evil and wickednesse should be thus served . This is the effect of pride and arrogancie , that leans onely to its own judgement , and will not give way and libertie to admonish and informe rightly . Upon which , other inconvenients do follow by degrees : First with-drawing the ear from faithfull Counsellours , then giving themselves to flatterers , then entertaining of these , and rejecting and casting off others , whereof ariseth suspicions , jealousies , wrongs , injustice , from hence shedding of bloud under colour of law , or without colour in open Tyranny , as no man at first becomes extreamly wicked . At last followes the ruine of the authours , together with the ruine of others . To return to our point , it came so about here . The warre began betwixt Scotland and England ; An Army behooved to be raised , and for the raising thereof the Nobilitie must be conveened . Loath were those new men to the work , they knew not what they might think when they were conveened . But there was no remedie , their privie counselling could not sustaine the warres . That was the part of the Noblemen , and could not be done without them . So they are conveened ; the Army raised marches toward the borders , on to Lawder they go . It is a Town in the confines of Merse and Tivedale , which countries were both wasted by the incursions of the enemy . Nothing will make men wise where there is ruine determined . The place , the time , the enemy , the necessitie to use the Nobilitie , could not serve to admonish the King and his Courteours to give them some small countenance and contentment . Whom they were constrained to employ , they would not endeavour to please . On they go with their wonted course . The King only countenances , consults , advises with his Cabin-councell . Neglects ▪ the Nobilitie and distrusts them . It had been strange if they had not recented it ; and as strange if they had not remedied it . Now was the time or never . The force , power and all was in their own hands . They disdain it , they regrate it in private one to another . They agree on the generall , that some order must be taken with these disorders . They appoint a meeting for advising of the forme and particular manner how and what to do . The place , Lawder Kirk ; the time , next morning betimes . Thither they come at the time prefixt . Here the Earle of Angus , first in place and rank , first in credit , first in authority and their account , is also first in speech , and is said first thus to have opened up the matter unto them . My honourable Lords , I hold it not needfull to go about with many words to set before you the Estate of this Kingdome . For some things you your selves remember , some you see before your eyes . Our chief Noblemen are thrust into exile , and forced either to suffer into lerably , or do unjustly . And you who are the Arms and Limbs of this Kingdome are left without a head , as a Ship without a Pilot and Master , exposed to the storms and tempests of fortune . Our fields are burnt , our goods carried away , the labourers killed , or seeing no other remedie of their manifold miseries , have yeelded themselves to the enemy . His Majestie in the mean time a man indeed ( if he were himself ) of a generous minde and rare understanding , bewitched in his affection , asketh no advice or counsell of his Nobilitie , but consulteth of peace and warre , of the good of the Countrey , and safety of us all with a few base , vile , and ignorant fellows , who by relating the predictions of Sorcerers and Magicians , fill his sick minde with vaine fear and superstition . And these men determine and set down decrees of our lives and estates , who knowing that they merit the hatred of all men , do therefore hate all men . Neither do they seek onely to lessen your authority , but to strike off your heads by one plot or other . Some of you they have already made away by death , others by banishment . Neither do they , as commonly new risers do , climbe up to the highest places by degrees , but they make the carcasses of the Kings sonnes steps for them to mount upon , and water their growing honours with the Bloud Royall it self . One of his brothers they have most cruelly murdered , the other they have constrained for fear to forsake his Countrey , and become a Captain in the enemies Camp. And now being rid of them , they lye in wait for the rest . For being conscious of their own basenesse , they cannot endure any that is excellent or eminent . Whoso hath riches to satisfie their avarice , or power to assist their bold attempts , him they reckon for their enemy . And do we prepare our selves to withstand the common enemy ? And encampe against England ? As if any were more deadly and more to be feared then he whose greedinesse our goods cannot suffice , and whose thirst of slaughter our bloud is not able to quench . Now that you may know how much this inward plague is worse than that outward foe , put the case that England ( which God forbid ) should overcome , what could we look for at their hands ? what would they make the end of their hatred , or reward of their victory ? The death of the King do you think , or of yourselves ? verily , I beleeve neither . Our contentions have not been for lives , but for honour and empire . And a noble heart , as it is vehement and violent against those that oppose , so is it easily mitigated by prayer and entreaty ; and even with the consideration of the 〈◊〉 of humane affairs it is moved to pity and compassion . But let us suppose the 〈◊〉 , that they being 〈◊〉 of our old debates , and 〈◊〉 up with present victory would take the Kings life , which of these two doth deal more easily with us ? He that by depriving us of life , doth also take away all sense of evil ; or he that reserveth that to daily 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 , which next after our God , should be most dear to us ? who besotting the minde with Witch - 〈◊〉 , do 〈◊〉 the King to the destruction of his nearest kindred , who detaine him like a captive ▪ and will not 〈◊〉 him at any time to show his face to his loyall Subjects ? that they may enjoy the comfort of his countenance , and he behold their service 〈◊〉 his honour and safety . They are not so much to be reputed enemies , who with displayed banner professe hostility , as they who within the wals lye in Ambush for your overthrowe . who drawing away his Majesties affection from his friends betray him to his enemies , and making you destitute of a leader , would expose you to the mercie of your enemies . Into whose hands if you do fall , though perhaps you escape death , yet shall you not eschew shame and ignominie , and which is wors●… than a thousand deaths , 〈◊〉 , and bondage . If you get the day and 〈◊〉 victorious , you shall not for all that , acquire that which is the end and fruit of victory , honour and renown to your King , rest and 〈◊〉 to your selves , and to your posteritie , a flourishing and prosperous ●…state of your Countrey , but on the contrary a greater liberty to your adversaries for the present , and greater security for the time to come , ruine and destruction to your selves ; and to your King a worse slavery , So that by vanquishing you shall not be so much freed from troubles abroad , as you shall increase your miseries at home . Wherefore my opinion is , to speak it in a word , that first we shake off this yoke of servltude at home , before we enter into fight with the forraine enemie . Otherwise all of us shall be slaves to the will and pleasure of a ●…ew , we shall strengthen our enemies , and become Traitours to the common-wealth . What you shall resolve to do , I pray God to prosper . When the Earle had ended his speech●… , there arose a confused murmure throughout the whole Assembly , for they had not the patience to give their votes in order , but all cryed out together , testifying their approbation and assent to his speech and opinion . Amongst others there present , the Lord Gray was one , whom some would have to be he that slew the Earle of Douglas at Stirlin , commonly called Cow●…-Gray . But if it were he , he behoved to be of great age now , and of greater at the battell of Bannock-burne , where he is also said to have been ▪ wherefore I take it rather that this hath been his son . However , the Lord Gray heard all , and seeing their forwardnesse , craved audience , and told them the Apologue of the Mice , who consulting in a publick meeting , how to be sure from the Cats surprising of them , found out a very good way , which was to hang a bell about her neck , that would ring as she st●…pped , and so give them warning of her approach , that they might save themselves by flight . But when it came to be questioned who would undertake to ti●… the bell about the Car●… 〈◊〉 , there was never a mouse durst cheep or undertake it . The Earle of Angus understood his meaning , and what application was to be made of it ▪ wherefore he answered shortly , I will Bell the Cat , and what your Lordships conclude to be done , shall not lack execution . For this answer , he was alwayes after this named Archbald Bell the Cat. And so they concluded , that these wicked Counsellours , and their Complices the Courtiers of the same qualitie , and stamp , should be brought to judgement , and punished according to their deserts . In the execution whereof their main care was that no inconvenient should come to the King , which because it might fall out in a tumult , they ordained that the Army should lye quiet , and onely the Noblemen with their houshold servants should go to Court , and apprehend them as peaceably and calmly as possible they could . After the meeting was broken up , as they were going along , they encountred by the way with Robert Coohran , whom the King ( informed of their meeting ) had sent to know what the matter was : For it seemed to be some businesse of moment , and great importance that had moved such men to conveen at such an houre , so early in the morning . He had about his neck a gold chain of great weight , which the Earle of Angus took hold of , and straining it a little , This chain , said he , doth not become a man of your rank , but I shall ere long , give you one that will become you to weare farre better , and so pulling the chain from his neck , he delivered him to one of his men to be kept sure . After that he went on to the Kings lodging , where the Guard and others that were present astonished with the suddennesse of his coming , or reverencing the dignitie and majestie of his person gave place , and shrank away , so that the rest were easily apprehended without resistance or tumult . Onely John Ramsay fled to the King , and clasped his arms about his middle , and at the Kings request was pardoned in respect of his youth which excused his errours , and seemed to promise for him , that he would do no more so . The rest were led forth , and accused . 1. Of causing kill the Kings brother John. 2. Of inciting the King , and animating him against his other brother Alexander Duke of Albaine , so as to banish him : 3. Of sowing dissention betwixt the King and his Nobles . 4. Of drawing him to superstition , witch-craft , and magick to the offence of God , and slander of Religion . 5. Of perswading him to coyne a certain kinde of brasse , coyne of no value , which the people called the black coyne , which fact of all other was most odious to the vulgar . For hereupon had ensued great dearth of corns and victuall , while as the owners did choose rather to suffer their graine to rot in their Garners , then under the name of selling to give them to the buyers , for so they thought it to be a gift , and not a sale . Their accusations were no sooner read , but all cryed out against them ; and so they were condemned to be hanged over the bridge of Lawder . That sentence pronounced , was so acceptable to all that heard it , that they ran and brought their horse halters , and bridle reines to serve for ropes , and strive who should have the honour therein , the whole Army , and Nobilitie concurring and assisting at their execution . And thus they did remove those men , whom the good of the King , of the Nobilitie , and whole Countrey required necessarily to be removed from their Prince . Yet it was done with as great respect to himself , as it could be in such a case , where matters were to proceed contrary to his minde . They offer his person no violence , they do not mis-behave themselves in words : they are carefull it be not done by any in a tumult , and therefore come accompanied with the fewer number . They grant his desire when he did interceed for one of the guiltie , which shewes how willing they would have been to have granted the rest also , if it could have been done safely . A very remarkable and rare example of carefulnesse of the Common-wealth , joyned with all modestie , love , and dutifulnesse towards their King. Their behaviour was just such as Lawyers prescribe in such cases , who accounting the person of the Prince sacred , and not to be touched any way , do allow that their wicked counsellours and abusers only be taken order with , where the good of the Countrey enforceth it . Wherein the Earle of Angus being the principall actour , the chief commendation thereof can not be taken from him ; the praise , I say , not onely of wisedome in propounding , and perswading , of courage and resolution in under-taking , but also of discreet moderation , and dutifull regard to the King , in performing of this action without tumult , or uprore . Happie had the King been , if he could have taken it up rightly , and as he saw how far his wicked abusers were hated , he had also read their love and regard of his person , that appeared in every act of this Tragick Comedie , written in fair and Capitall Letters . He made show , as if he had taken all in good part , but it was not in sinceritie . He accounted it high treason and rebellion , and set his minde wholly on revenge . He saw what was done to his Courtiers , but he would not see the respect carried to himself ; for upon this occasion the Army dissolving , so soon as he came to Edinburgh , and found himself at libertie , he retired to the Castle with a few of his familiar friends , as not da●…ing to trust his Nobilitie . Which when they perceived , they had their private meetings and consultations apart . Hereupon his brother Alexander moves the King of England to send an Army with the Earle of Glocester , hoping to do somewhat for himself . And so he doth ; for the Nobilitie sent for him , and made him chief man of the party , under the name of Generall Lieutenant of Scotland . The King remained in the Castle , from whence he is brought out , and restored to his own place , his brother endeavouring by modestie to approve his uprightnesse , and banish all jealousies by his actions . But all would not do ; he continues his jealousie , and the effects of jealousie , an evill minde , and ill-will . Intends to make him away , some say by poison ; whereof he being advertised , with-drawes himself again into England ; and that he might be the more welcome thither , he put the Castle of Dumbar into their hands . Neither doth he bear any better minde toward the Nobilitie ; but still intends their ruines , making up a heap of crimes , calling all their proceedings and actions rebellious . And after a short while , the Courtiers began to follow the foot-steps of those that had gone before them , and nothing terrified with the example of their end , began to trade the same path that they had done . John Ramsay ( who was pardoned at Lawder ) procured an edict from the King , that none but he and his followers should go armed in those places where the Kings Court did converse . The King thought it was hard for him to deale with them all at once , therefore they must be divided . For this effect he insinuates himself , and becomes very familia●… with a part of them , and advanceth them to honours . He makes the Earle of Crawford , Duke of Monrosse , a great and powerfull man. But who was so fit for his service as the Earle of Angus ? he makes as if he were fully reconciled to him , hath him continually about him , countenanceth him every way , communicates with him his most secret affairs , some say he made him Chancellour ; but the Chancellour ( Andrew Stuart Lord of Evendale ) was even now living , at the coming in of Alexander Duke of Albanie ; neither hear we of his death , neither do we finde in old Evidents , that the Earle of Angus is entituled Chancellour , before 1493. which is after this Kings death , in King James the fourth his time , though we have Evidents of the year 1488. and 89. To him the King opens his mind so far , as finding that the principal of the Nobility were in Edinburgh the K. sends for Angus to the Castle , tells him that now he hath a fair occasion to be avenged of his enemies , that he wóuld cause seize and apprehend them : for if the Leaders and Chief of the Faction w●…e once cut off , the rest would not dare to stirre : that if he should neglect this opportunitie , he could hardly look for the like hereafter . Some say , that he purposed to have invited them to a supper in the Castle , and so to have laid hands on them , others say , that he meant to have caused take them in their lodgings in the night , which is not unlikely . The Earle of Angus , though he were no very old Cat ( some 31. or 32. ) if that was 1486. as it should seem , yet was he too warie and circumspect to be drawne by a straw . He knew himself to be as guilty as any of them , and as much hated for his guilt . But he was now within the Castle , and had need to carry himself wisely . To refuse , might endanger his life ; to consent he could not , it was so grosse and foule . Wherefore he frames his answer after such a kinde , as might be both safe for himself , and no waies prejudiciall to the rest . He tells him what a disgrace it would be for him , if without order of law he should ( all of a sudden ) bring so many Noblemen to the scaffold without a crime , to whom he was but lately reconciled , and had promised remission of all that was past , especially at such a time when they trusted to the publick assurance given them for their securitie . Neither will those that ●…emain , said he , be terrified , and dismayed with the death of these few , but be irritated and driven to despair , and so to greater violence . But if it will please your Majestie to follow my advice , I shall tell you a better way to give you satisfaction . Do but charge and summond any of them at any time to under-lye the law , and I with my friends and followers shall bring them in by force openly , and in fair day light , to what place you please , where execution may be done according to law , which is not onely more safe , but more honourable , than either to betray them under colour of friendship , and feasting , or to invade them in the night , as if they were set on bytheeves and robbers . This being spoken with that grace and courage wherewith he used to accompanie his actions , the King acknowledging it was true that he said , and knowing he was able to performe what he promised , supposing he spake in sinceritie , gave him many thanks ▪ and having loaded him with as many promises , dismissed him . Assoon as he was come to his lodging , he revealed all to the Noblemen , and withall went himself out of the Town . From that time forth there was no more peace . The Kings counsell being revealed , he distrusted all men . The Nobilitie seeing his resolution to ruine them , and that there was no trust to be given to his words , despairing of concord ; whereas they had before sought his amendement , and not his over-throw , retaining ever a dutifull love and regard to his Person , now they set themselves , and lay all the plots they can how to undo him . Yet can they not be alienated from the race of their Kings . His son had not offended , and fell to succeed . They affect him for their Captain . He is also most acceptable , and most agreeable to the people , and so fittest for them . Others might be suspected , envied , or mis-interpreted . Wherefore they allure him to their partie by his keepers , and his keepers perswade him by feare of being disinherited , and put besides his succession to the Crown . And now the parties are adressed , the King and his own son . There was divers times mention of peace , but where all trust was taken away ▪ it could not be established . They send the King word flatly , they could not give credit to his promises . And so there was no way to mediate a peace , but by his dimission of the Crown to his son . That condition was intollerable ; he aggravates it to forrain Princes , and to the Pope , shewing what an ill president it was for all Princes . But before any help can come from thence , the Lords make haste to come to a conclusion , which fell out according to their desire . The Kings Forces lay most part beyond Forth , and in the Northerne parts . For conveening of them , Stirlin was the fittest place . Thither l●…e takes his way with the Forces he had : The Nobilitie following as near as they could come to him . Yet was he gone before them , and might first have come to the Castle . But being excluded by the keeper , he is constrained to hazard the battell at Bannock-burn . There , having overthrown the vanguard of the enemy , he was overthrown by the Anandale men , & west-borderers that bare longer spears than they that were on the Kings side . The King himself hurt with the fall of his horse ▪ and wounded in the right arme , fled unto a water-mill that was near unto the place , with intention to have fled to his Ships . But he was perceived , and known by the partisans of his Guard , that stuck to him ( which were trimmed with white fringes or fasses ) and followed by Patrick Lord Gray , and Stirlin ( of Keir ) and a Priest named Borthwick . Which of these , or if all of them fell upon him it is uncertain , but there he was slain by them . Fame layes it most on the Lord Gray , who if it were Cowe-Gray ; it seemes his apprentiship and his practice in his old age have been very sutable . For he it was that slew William Earle of Douglas at Stirlin , under this Kings father 35. or 36. year before this . He hath put a long time between his assay , and his master-piece , and gone too high in it . If it was his son , he hath followed well his fathers example , and gone beyond him also . All this while the Earle of Angus part was honourable and kindly , his heart could not digest the slaughter of his King. He sought his own safety , and to shorten the reins of his unbridled minde , but for his life , he neither sought it , nor could he suffer it to be taken so farre as he could hinder it . Wherefore seeing the victorie to be on their side , he cryed oft to save the King , attesting all for their love to God , and for their respect to the young Prince his sonne , that they should do him no harm . This was cast in his teeth by the way of reproach as childishnesse , or too much tendernesse of heart at such a time , by the Lord Gray . There were slain on the Kings side the Earle of Glencarne ( and a few of his fellows ) the Earle of Angus married his daughter three years after , to Robert Lord Kilmaers son or rather Grand-childe to this Earle of Glencarne . This happened 1488. the 28. of King James Raigne , and 35. of his age . But the Warre did not end with the death of the King. The old Kings faction was rather scattered than broken , chiefly his Navy and Sea Forces , of which the Captain ( Andrew Wood ) stood out obstinatly . In the North the Lord Forbes had gotten the Kings bloudy shirt , & carrying it upon a spears point like an ensinge , through Aberdene and other Towns stirred up all he could to revenge the Kings slaughter . In the Westerne parts of the Kingdome , the Earle of Lennox assembled his power , and divers moe with him did send their messengers to and fro , exhorting the people every where not to suffer so detestable a murder un-revenged ; forbidding them to scarre at the shadow of the present Kings authority , whom these Parricides did detaine a captive to countenance their wickednesse , he being rather a prisoner than a Prince , the whole power resting in the hands of the Douglasses , Humes , and Hepburnes . That even in that regard they would take Arms to free him from their tyrannie , who would make the World beleeve that he being but a childe of 15. years of age were so unnaturall as to allow of his fathers murder . Besides all this the English made some trouble by Sea with five Ships , which lay in the mouth of Forth , and not onely infested the Merchants and such as did trade by Sea , but also many times came a Shore , and pillaged the Countrey . These were prognosticks of a storm arising , and of a tempest as great as had been from the West , from the North , and from the Sea. But these droping Clouds which threatned an after-clap were quickly dispersed by the prudent handling of the other party . Andrew Wood was intreated , and brought not onely to be no enemy , but also to set upon the English Ships , which he did with his own two onely , and brought in the five English to Leith . Lennox was defeated by the Lord Drummond , whose daughter George master of Angus had married : and the Northern men hearing of it sat quiet , and stirred not . And for conclusion a Parliament was held at Edinburgh the 6. of November , where all that was done at Bannock-burne was decerned to be good service , and that those that were slain there , were slain through their own default , and that those that had taken Arms against them were free from all crime . This had been done before in the Parliament when the King was crowned , but there were so few present then , that they thought it necessary to renew it here , where both parties were present . And so it was not onely enacted , but subscribed by all that had vote in Parliament . Thus did Angus with the rest of his associats governe those matters which seemed to be very hard to settle , both wisely and moderately . For they used not their victory and power either cruelly or covetously . They forgave sincerely those that came in and yeelded , and punished gently the more obstinate , fining them in their goods , or taking from them some portion , or parcell of their Lands and Possessions ; but there was no man ruined , or wholly undone by them ; And so they both pacified things , and did not much displease the parties , who bare it patiently when they called to remembrance for what small faults , and upon what slight pretences men were turned out of their whole Estates in the late Kings time . By these meanes they procured a true and sincere peace among the Subjects , strengthened with a generall love and submission of both parties to the King. And to confirme all the two principalls of the other party L●…nnox and Forbes came in , and were received into favour : Many attribute the commendation of all this to the King himself , whose inclination ( it cannot be denied ) was good ; but to speak the truth , as it is , he was but young , and not a Guider , but guided , even by the confession of the adverse partie . Neither could he of himself have carried things so wisely , for all his good disposition ; neither was he able to have done it , though he had been skilfull , if there had not been great moderation in those that were about him . Wherefore seeing both common report , and our Histories also make our Douglasses , Humes , and Hepburnes , the chief authors and actors in these matters ; I see no reason why we should defraude them of their due commendation of being men that were dutifull to their Countrey , and withall very respective to their King , having laboured all they could to reclaim him , and after he had shut himself up in the Castle , restoring him to his full authority , and even when he was seeking their lives , they did tolerate him a good while , being very loath to come to extremity . And last being forced to it by necessitie for the preservation of their own lives , they had regard to the race of their Princes , yea to himself , and his life in the greatest heat of the battell , ever willing and desirous to save him . And then after the victorie , we ●…ee how moderate they were against their detractours , slanderers , and profest enemies that had taken Arms against them , how meek in bearing with them , how carefull too , with calmnesse to reconcile them , how gentle in using of them , how wise and prudent in thè whole progresse of pacification . And above all the moderation of their desires is to be remarked ; for they did neither increase their estates , nor enrich themselves on whit , by spoiling or viole●…●…eizing of any mans Lands or Goods . The Earle of Angus was made Chancellour . But that was after the death of the Lord Evendale , and so it was not taken from any other man , neither was there any wrong in it . And on whom could it have been so well bestowed ? who was so 〈◊〉 for it ? and who so worthy of it ? Besides , it seemes that he got it not in the Kings minority , when he had all power in his own hand under the shadow of the Kings name , and so might have extorted it from the King in those troublous times , for he is never termed Chancellour 〈◊〉 the year 1493. which was 5. years after Bannock-burne , and then all the troubles were quieted and pacified , and the King came to be 20. years of age , able to guide his affairs by himself . The Lord Hume is also made great Chamberlaine of Scotland , yet that was also in the Kings power to give , and belonged to no man. What other casuality , or benefite they acquired by the Kings liberality , we finde not , unlesse it were the Guardianship of the inheritrix of Glenbarvie , which Angus got , whom he married to his son William . But suppose they did get any such thing , yet was it without injury to any man and un-reproveably . Wherefore we may say justly , that no Princes minority was ever so moderately and innocently , so justly , wisely , and prudently guided amongst so great troubles and grounds of dissention . This made them that they feared no man , having offended no man , but were even secure in the Kings presence , notwithstanding that he had enjoyned himself a pennance , for being accessarie to his fathers death , which was the wearing of a chain of iron about his middle in stead of a girdle , to which he added every year a new link or ring . Not the lesse of all this , they were never afraid of the King nor jealous of him , but interpreted this well , and took it in good part , not onely because they trusted to the Kings gentle disposition , or because they confided in their own Forces , as being of the stronger faction ; but also because they reposed on the conscience of their fact , the necessity of doing what they had done , and innocencie every other way towards every man. From this time the Earle of Angus continued Chancellour , so named in all Writs and Indentures untill the year 1496. the 14. of January , at which time he contracts his daughters to the Lord Harris , and the Lord Lile . He indents with Hugh Douglas Deane of Buchan , and sonne to the late Earle of Ormond , in two severall Indentures , whereof the condition of the one is to pursue for the lands of Evendale in the year 1493. the other in the year 1496. the 14. of January , is to this purpose ; That the said Hugh shall pursue for Glenwhome , Gladstanes , and any other Lands pertaining to the Earles of Douglas , Lord of Evendale , or his father the Earle of Ormond , and that having obtained them he shall resigne them in favour of the Earle of Angus . Other things remarkeable we have none , untill about the time of the Field of Flowden , which makes it seem to be probable ( which some allege ) that all this time he was confined in Arane . The pretended cause ( as they say ) was secret intelligence with King Henry of England ; but the true cause ( they say ) was his taking Jean Kennedie , daughter to the Earle of Cassils out of Galloway , to whom the King bare affection , and to whom the Earle gave infeftement , and seizing of the Lands of Bothwel , although he never married her . As touching the pretended cause it hath no appearance at all , seeing there was alwayes peace and friendship betwixt us and both the Henries ( the 7. and 8. ) untill the warre was denounced , or a very short time before . And concerning that of Jeane Kennedie , we have a note of an Indenture betwixt Angus Chancellour , and the Lord Kennedie , but they have neglected to set down about what it hath been in the year 1496. So that we are uncertain what to think of it . And contrary to this we finde that the Lands of Bothwel were not in the Earles hands , but in his sonne Georges , who got them from the Lord Bothwel in exchange for the Lordship of Liddisdale , which for that cause he resigned into the Kings hands in favor of the Earle Bothwel in the year 1492. so that the Earle could not give her the Lands that belonged to his sonne . Further our Histories tels us , that when James Earle of Aran , who was sent with the Navy which the King had prepared for a present to Queene Anne of France , had turned in upon Ireland , and having burnt Knockfergus , was come to Air a Sea-port in Coile , the King offended with his folly , gave the charge of the Ships to Angus for prosecuting of the voyage . But Aran having heard of it , hoysed saile , and was gone before Angus could come to the place where the Ships lay . Now although it should seem by this that the King continued his favour toward him , yet there are some apparant reasons to move us to think that it hath been somewhat diminished . For Alexander Lord Hume was made Warden of all the three marches ( and that before Flowdon ) of which the east and middle march at least had continued under the government of the Earles of Angus , for the space of three or foure generations , descending from father to sonne by succession , from Earle William in the persons of James , and George to this present Archbald . Other mention , or monument of him we have none till the Warres betwixt King James the 4. and King Henry the 8. of England . It is reported by some , that the Queene and he did what they could to disswade the King from that Warre , but when he could not prevaile with him , he followed him into England . There the King having wasted Northumberland , and taken Norham with some few other Castles , got a view of the wife of one Heron of the Foord , and did so fancie her , that he neglected the prosecuting of the warre , and care of his Army , and did nothing but dallie with her . Whilest the Army lay there idle , the English sent a Herauld to the King desiring that he would appoint a day for battell . But the greatest part of the Nobility did dislike it . And the Earle of Angus though he saw all this and many moe errours , yet he held his peace all this while , whereas the rest of the Nobilitie reasoned with the King , but in vain . For the King told them flatly , he would fight them though they were a hundreth thousand more , and that he would retire . Then ( and not till then ) the Earle of Angus hearing his answer , and knowing the danger of such resolution , being the Chief man amongst them both for years and authoritie , he went about to set before the King the reasons of the counsell given him , hoping by that meane to break him of his determination , in these words . Sir ( said he ) your Majestie hath done abundantly to satisfie your friendship with the King of France , in that ye have made the King of England withdraw the greater part of his Army out of France , and have turned the danger of the War from him without endangering your self . For they cannot keep the fields long in a Countrey that is so cold and wasted , especially now when the Winter is so near . Neither need your Majestie to wonder that the French Ambassadour is so instant with us to fight ; he being a stranger , it is no strange thing to see him prodigall of other mens bloud , who doth not regard the good of the parties , but the benefite that will thereby redound to France . Besides , his request is altogether impudent and shamelesse : For he requires us to do that which his master ( a man of great understanding ) thinks not fit to do for his own Kingdom . Neither should the losse of this Army seem small , because our number is few , for all that are of worth , & excell either in wisedome or valour in Scotland are here , and these being slain , the vulgar will become a prey to the enemy . Therefore as it is safest for the present to prolong the Warre , so is it most profitable in generall . For if Lewis would have either thè English exhausted with charges , or wearied with delay , what is more convenient , then to compell him to divide his Forces , by keeping one half thereof continually in readinesse against us , who lye in wait to invade his Countrey upon every occasion , so to ease the French of so much of their burden ? As for your honour and reputation , which men pretend , what can be more honourable , than having razed so many Forts and Castles , wasted and spoyled their Countrey with fire and sword , to returne laden with such store of spoyle , that they shall not be able to recover their losses , nor their soile redeem the former beautie in many years , though there should happen to be peace ? What greater commoditie can we expect to reap of the Warre , than in such a tumultuous noise of Armes to have leisure to refresh our souldiers with ease and quietnesse , to our credit , and to our enemies shame ? Of all the victories that are acquired , that which is obtained more by counsell , than force of Armes , is most properly the victory of man , and the praise of it doth onely redound to the Commander and Generall ; for in it the Armie can claim no part or interest . When the Earle had ended his speech , all that were present shewed by their countenance , that they did approve and assent unto his counsell . But the King who had solemnely sworn to give battell , heard him unwillingly , and answered angerly ; bidding him , if he were afraid , go home . Then Angus seeing the King obstinate , and fore-seeing in his minde what would be the event of such headinesse , burst forth in teares , and after a while having gathered his spirits again , when he was able to speak , If my former life , said he , doth not free me from the imputation of fearfulnesse , I know not by what other evidence I can clear my self ; while this body of mine was able to endure labour and toyle , I spared it not for the defence of our Countrey , and honour of our Kings . Now seeing my counsell , by which onely I am able to do good , can have no place , I leave here my two sonnes , who next after my Countrey are dearest to me , together with the rest of my friends and kinsmen ; the surest pledge that I can give of my affection to your Majestie , and to the rest that are here present . And I pray God that this my fear may prove frivolous , and that I be rather esteemed a false prophet , than that those things happen , which I think I see before mine eyes . And so he took his leave , and departed , leaving behinde him with the King his eldest son George , and Sir William of Glenbarvie , whom he exhorted to carry themselves valiantly , as those they were come of had ever done , and recommending them to God and their good fortune , he rode home . As the Earle of Angus presaged , so it fell out : for the battell was fought at Flowdon , where the day was lost , and the King slain , yet his body could never be found , which had been easily discerned by the chain of iron which he ware for a girdle . There were also slain at this battell George Master of Angus , and Sir William of Glenbarvie , with some 200. Gentlemen of the name of Douglas . Their father the Earle went to Saint Mains in Galloway . He lived there a year after , an austere and hard life , where he died also , and was buried in the Church of Saint Mains , about the year 1514. his heart was carried to Douglas . The years of his age were 61. or 62. by all the conjecture that can be made . So that it hath not been so much for his years , as for some other infirmitie , that his body hath not been able and fit for service , as he sayes himself at Flowdon . He was a man every way accomplished both for minde and body . He was for stature tall , and of a strong composition . His countenance was full of majestie , and such as bred reverence in the beholders ; wise and eloquent of speech ; upright and square in his actions ; sober and moderate in his desires , valiant and couragious , a man of action and undertaking , liberall also of heart and hand , loving and kinde to his friends ; which made him to be beloved , reverenced , and respected of all men . He gave proof of his personall valour in a duell which is reported to have been thus . The King on a time was discoursing at table of the personages of men , and by all mens confession the prerogative was adjudged to the Earle of Angus . A Courtier that was by ( one Spense of Kilspindie ) whether out of envie to hear him so praised , or of his idle humour onely , cast in a word of doubting and disparaging : It is true , said he , if all be good that is up-come ; meaning if his action and valour were answerable to his personage and body . This spoken openly , and coming to the Earles ears in the worst interpretation , offended him highly . It fell out after this , as the Earle was riding from Douglas to Tantallon , that he sent all his company the nearest way , and he himself with one onely of his servants , having each of them a hawke on his fist in hope of better sport , took the way by Borthwick towards Falawe ; where lighting at the brook at the West end of the town they bathed their hawkes . In the mean time this Spense happened to come that way ; whom the Earle espying , said to his man , Is not this such an one , that made question of my manhood , I will go to him , and give him a triall of it , that we may know which of us is the better man. No , my Lord , said his servant , it is a disparagement for your Lordship to meddle with him , I shall do that sufficiently , if it will please your Honour to give me leave . I see , said the Earle , he hath one with him , it shall be thy part to grapple with him , whilest I deal with his Master . So fastening their hawkes , that they might not flye away in the mean time , they rode after him , and having over-taken him ; What reason had you , said the Earle to him , to speak so contemptuously of me at such a time , doubting whether my valour were answerable to my personage ? When the other would have excused the matter , he told him , that would not serve the turne ; Thou art a big fellow , and so am I , one of us must pay for it . The other answered , If it may be no better , there is never an Earle in Scotland , but I will defend my self from him as well as I can , and will rather kill him , if I can , than suffer him to kill me . So alighting from their horses , they fought a certain space , but at last the Earle of Angus with a stroake , cut Spenses thigh-bone asunder , so that he fell to the ground , and died soon after . The two serving-men were very hard at it still , when the Earle came and stayed them , saying to Spenses man , Go thy way , tell my Gossip the King , there was nothing here but fair play : I know my Gossip will be offended ; but I will get me into Liddisdale , and remain in the Hermitage till his anger be over . And so it is thought he did : whereupon the King , when he was pacified , caused the Earle to exchange his Lordship of Liddisdale , with the Lands of Bot●…well , alleging that there was no order to ●…e had of the Earles of Angus so long as they kept Liddisdale : What other reasons the Earle had to move him to this excambion , I know not , nor why he should have preferred Bothwell ; but it is certain his son George exchanged them with his consent . One fault he had , that he was too much given to women ; otherwayes there was little or nothing that a man could have wished to be helped in him , or that was amisse . Archibaldus Angusiae primus . Palponum dum turba ferox illudere regi Non timet ; idque palam plebsque patresque fremunt ; Amissum decus imperii ; vilescere sceptrum ; Omnia turbari tum foris atque domi ; Cochronum extinxi ( caput horum & dux nebulonum Is fuit ) & laqueo colla scelesta ded●… . Talibus infestus quod sim Gnathonibus , atro Dente petit , famam rodit & aula meam . Faex hominum , procerum pestis , Regumque ruina ; Quo magis oblatras , hoc magis illa nitet . Archbald of Angus , the first of that name . Whiles bloudy flatterers did not fear T' abuse their Princes name and ear : Whiles great , and mean , and all repine , Whiles the Kings honour doth decline , His rule too much despis'd by all , And State affairs to ruine fall . Cochran their Head was hang'd by me : And for I punisht such as he , They do attempt my name to stain With slanders , but these dregs of men , The pest of Courts , the shame of Kings , Their greatest hate most honour brings . Of George Master of Angus , and sonne to Archbald the first . HIs eldest son ( as hath been said ) was George slain at Flowdon , designed commonly by the appellation of Master of Angus . He was married to Elizabeth Drummond , daughter to the Lord Drummond of whom we told how he defeated the Earle of Lennox . His children by her were three sonnes . First Archbald , afterward Earle of Angus . Secondly Sir George of Pittendrich . Thirdly William Priour of Colding hame . His daughters were , First the Lady Yester . Secondly the Lady Basse. Thirdly Jeane Lady Glames . Fourthly Alison , married first to Robert Blackader , of Blackader , and afterward to Sir David Hume of Wedderburne . Fifthly the Lady Drumlanerige , as I take it . Also they mention a sixth , married to a Baron in the North , whom they name not , neither do I know who he should be . His age at his dea th ( to reckon from the 15. year of his fathers age in the 1469. to the year of his own death at Flowdon 1513. ) was not above 44. His actions , because he never came to be Earle , are not recorded . Some dealing there was betwixt him as Governour of Liddisdale , and the Lord Dacres in England , with whose Deputies he agrees to meet at Dumfreis , for doing of Justice in the year 1489. the year after the King was killed at Bannock-burne . So at Cannabie he met with the Lord Dacres himself , where they accorded not well : For they intended both to send to the Councels of both Nations to have their determination of their differences . He agrees the same year with Sir Robert Lundie of Bagonie , Treasurer for a generall remission to Ewsdalde , Eskdale , and Niddisdale , which I think should rather be Liddisdale , for a 1000. pounds , being at this time not above 20. years of age , not out of Curatorie by the Laws , though that was in his fathers hands . Yet we see also Courts held in his name , by his Bailiffs , as a retoure of Adam Ker , to some Lands in Selkrig , in the said year , which makes me to think he hath been then married . Also he it is , as we told above , that excambes the Lands of Liddisdale for Bothwell with Patrick Earle Bothwell , resigning the Lands of Liddisdale , and the King disponing them upon the resignation in the year 1492. upon what reason either the Earle Bothwelshould have affected these , or he preferred the other , and not thought himself as fit to rule that unruly Countrey as any other , I have not heard . But it was done in his fathers life time , who was no fool when he was in his greatest vogue , the first three years of King James the fourth . He allies afterward with this same Earl Bothwel , marrying his sonne Archbald to his daughter , but that must be long after , except that he hath been married young , as some say he was . In the year 1510. he indents for the marriage of his fourth daughter Alison to Robert Blackaders sonne , and apparent heir to Andrew Blackader of that Ilk. Her portion 300. marks , the terms , 1. at the compleating 40. pounds , and 20. pounds , at the feast of Martimasse next a●…ter ; and so 20. pounds termly till it were payed . That same year he is in●…eft in Abernethie . And this is all we have of him , which we have set down chiefly for his children , and the Historie that followeth of them . Of Archbald the seventh Earle of Angus and the second Archbald . TO Archbald the first , succeeded Archbald the second , his Grand-childe by his sonne George Master of Angus . He was thrice married , first to Margaret Hepburne daughter to Patrick Hepburne the first Lord Bothwell , being as yet very young : for at his second marriage he was not old , but a youth , or stripling , Adolescens . She died in childe-birth within the year ( as they say ) immediatly a●…ter the Field of Flowdon . 2. His second wife was Queen Margaret relict of King James the 4. and daughter to King Henry 7. of England . She bare to him a daughter Lady Margaret Douglas , who was married to Matthew Stuart Earle of Lennox , and bare to him Henry Lord Darnly , that married Queen Mary of Scotland , and father to King James the sixt of Scotland , and first of great Brittain now happily reigning . Lady Margaret had also another sonne named Charles , who was father to the Lady Arabella . 3. His third wife was Margaret Maxwell daughter to the Lord Maxwell . She bare to him a sonne and a daughter , who died both of them before they were 8. years old . He had also a base daughter by a daughter of Traquairs , Jeane Douglas married to the Lord Ruthven . Some say that he begot this daughter in the Queens time , while she lying in of Lady Margaret Douglas in England , after her delivery went to London and stayed there with her brother King Henry the 8 and with her sister the late Queen of France , and then Duchesse of Suffolk . Others say that it was before . He had also a base sonne ( as I take it ) commonly called George the Postulant to a by-name , because ( I know not upon what claim or title ) he did postulate and claim the Abbacie of Aberbroth ( or Abernethock ) and not onely did postulate it , but apprehended it also , and used it as his own . Having brought the house of Angus still increasing , and growing in greatnesse , and honour unto this man Archbald the second , shall we suffer it now to decay , or to take halt in his person ? No , but we shall see it increase so much the more , as he approacheth nearer unto that descent , which is able to give honour unto basenesse it self , far more to adde and multiply honour upon that which is already honourable . Men do not onely take honour from their progenitors ; their posterity makes them honourable , when they have much honour , and that variable according to the degrees of their honour more or lesse . Which seeing it is undeniable , in what place of honour shall we rank this Archbald , father to the Lady Margaret Douglas , and by her great Grandfather to our Soveraigne King James of great Brittain ? This one thing is enough to list him up to the highest top of honour . All other things are but accessary ; yet are they additions of great importance . Men are honourable by their marriage : Who then so honourable as he ? Having married a Queen , a Kings daughter , a Kings sister , a Kings mother . Others also of the Subjects of this Countrey have married Queens ( I grant ) But none of them did marry Queen Margaret , a Lady so vertuous ; None did marry a Queen so Royally descended , and every way Regall in her father , her mother , her brother , her sister , her husband , her sonne being all of them Kings or Queens . None did marry a Queen without some blemish and diminition of her reputation but he . None with the approbation of all men ; even of the Queens own chief Kinred , with the allowance , desire , and exhortation of her Kinsfolks , of King Henry the 8. But you will say perhaps , that this hath been chance or fortune , or ignorance in her , blindnesse of an impotent woman , who placed her affection without desert , or that it hath been ignorance in King Henry her brother , a forrain Prince ill informed . Let us therefore hear such witnesses as were not blinded , either with womanly affection , or with the ignorance of a stranger ; such as were unpartiall , and who had neither fear nor hope , love or hatred , which are the common causes of partiality . These are ourhistories , which if they record truth ( as they are recorders of truth ) if there was any more worthy , or before him in any good quality , then let it be accounted folly in her , and weaknesse in her brother . What do these our Histories then say ? First of his place and descent , they say he was the first of the youth of Scotland for Nobility . Lo here is one good quality , and that a very main one , wherein her choyce and her brothers approbation are justified , and he shown to be worthy , nay most worthy by hi●… place and birth , whereof we have said enough heretofore . But let that be thought of no moment or value if there be no more . What say they next ? What of himself ? In himself ? in his personage ? The first of the youth of Scotland for favour and comelinesse of personage . I dare not consent to them that make no account hereof . It hath ever been in account ; men have thought it worthy , whereon to bestow a Kingdome . It is yet regarded , it affects all humane creatures , and moves us whither we will or no ; They say that beasts discern it not . I doubt of it , though we are not able to discern their discerning of it . But let them be beasts that do so . And let this also be nothing in him , if there be yet no more in him ; if there be no qualities joyned to it , which it gives lustre to , as gold to a Diamond . Let it be ( as in all men and women ) like a ring of gold on a Swines snout , ill placed , and matched ; unseemly , and unworthily . Yet it is gold , and gold is ever precious , and to be desired ; although the Swines snout of ill conditions be not worthy to be so fairly and finely deckt , or adorned . What are then his other properties and qualities of minde and man-hood , soule and body ? which is the third point . The first and principall ( say they ) of the youth of Scotland in all good exercise , knowledge , cunning , skill and understanding , belonging to a man of his place ! for I doubt not there were many more cunning Clerks than he ; yet not more sufficient in uprightnesse , honest vertue , dexterity , and good addresse , both in politick matters belonging to the good government of the Countrey ; and Gentleman-like , exercise becoming his estate , for body or minde , for peace , or warre . What particulars they are we shall see in his particuliar actions ; viz. valour , and true courage , with love and kindnesse to his Countrey , hereditarie properties from the very root of which he is sprung . Also wisedome and magnanimity , truth and uprightnesse in words and actions , with others which will appear , as the occasion occurres . And so we have him by these testimonies thrice ( that is every way ) first , or chief and principall . 1. Chiefe in Nobility beyond all . 2. Chiefe in personage , beyond all . 3. Chiefe in vertue , and all good arts ( for so is the word ) or qualities , beyond all . Worthy therefore whom the Queen should have preferred , and made choyce of to be her husband beyond , and before all . Worthy of whom should descend that race of Kings so Noble , beyond all . Which as it honours him , so doth it not disgrace or disparage that Noble and Princely race , to be come of such an one in his person ; of such stock in the whole race and descent of that whole Family , so noble , so worthy , and heroicall every way . Not so much private in place , as Princely in worth , all vertue and magnanimity ; though otherwise Subjects . And thus the honour of the house doth rise in his person , whom we see accounted by all every way honourable , honourable by bloud , honourable by vertue , honourable by marriage , honourable by affinitie and alliance , honourable by progenie and posteritie , honourable by all actions , by all valiant , and alwayes worthy acts . As for his greatnesse and puissance , we finde it at his entry and beginning matched ( yea over-matched ) by the Lord Hume Chamberlaine ; But in end harderto be matched by any , nay matching ( almost ) what should not be matched in any sort , wherewith no Subject should match himself . Which however good or evil it be in using , yet it is greatnesse to have done so . To come to his particular actions ; The first we finde is his marriage , which is not indeed to be attributed to his prudencie , or his purchasing , yet is it the effect of his worth . She affected him , and he had reason not to refuse the party . Her brother King Henry consents , and writes lovingly to them both . He had his own particular end , which was to counterpoize , or weigh down the French faction , and to hinder the incursions of Scotland by his means ; some say also to stay the Duke of Albanie from coming home to be Governour , but that was not yet motioned . And though that were his end , yet the other was the end of his desire to stay Albanie , and his main scope ; for all that he aimed at by staying of him was but to stay the Scottish warres , which he by his coming was like to set on foot . Things fal out contrary many times to mens intentions . This marriage brought in the Duke of Albanie , and by him had strengthened the French if he had guided wisely , kept the hearts of men in Scotland , and entertained his home-bringer , the Chamberlain , and given him a thankfull meeting for that work . But there is a providence , if men would observe . This plot fails King Henry , that fails the Chamberlain , this fails the Duke of Albanie . The King hopes to hinder the French by this marriage ; it furthers them to be all the guiders , being brought in by the Chamberlain . The Chamberlain looks to be rewarded , he hath his head stricken off . The Duke thinks that the Chamberlains death shall breed him all quietnesse , ease , and power , it looseth him the hearts of all men , and at last his office . The working of these things was thus . The Queen was by the King her husbands testament left Regent during her widow-hood . That lasted not long ; from the 25. of September untill the next Spring was ended , say some : others fay untill the 6. of August almost a year . Then she marrieth , and so fals from that charge . The Earle of Angus did labour to have it continued , and used a strong motive , which was , that so the peace should last with England , which was both profitable and necessary . The Queen during her Regencie had procured it ; She had written to her brother that he should stay the war , and abstain from troubling his Nephews Kingdome ; troubled already too much with factions within it self . He had answered her , that he warred against the Scots , when they made war against him ; and that he would keep peace with them when they kept peace with him . This was a magnanimous minde , and a Princely ( say our writers , not envious of the praife of the English ) though indeed it were not without a good policie . For by that meane he had leasure to prosecute his French intentions without fear of being disturbed or diverted by the Scottish incursions . But we will not extenuate it : he had indeed the better hand of it , and at this time peace was more needfull for Scotland . And therefore this reason brought by Angus for the continuation of the Queens authoritie was so much the greater . But it could not move the other party , whereo●… the Lord Hume ( Chamberlain ) was Chief . They shew their willingnesse to honour the Queen . That appeared ( say they ) in this ; that contrary to the ancient custome of this Kingdome , they had suffered and obeyed her authority , whiles she her self kept her right by keeping her widow-hood . Now that she had quit it by marrying , why should they not choose another to succeed into the place which she had left ? which the old laws would also have taken from her , which do not permit that a woman should govern in the most peaceable times , far lesse now , when such evils do threaten , as can scarce be resisted by the wisest and most sufficient men . This they pretended , and touched the point that did annoy them . The marrying of the Earle of Angus had made him too great already , the continuing of her authority would make him farre greater . This they can not endure ; especially the Chamberlain who was jealous of his greatnesse , which he thought would impair and lessen his own , already beginning to decline , by the retiring and with-drawing of Liddisdale and Anandale from following him , and casting them again under the wings of the Douglasses , to whom they had wont to belong . This point being once obtained , that the Queen should governe no more , the next was , who then should be the man. Here also was no lesse strife and contention . The Chamberlains credit carried it away , his own power , his alliance , the Earle of Arane being his brother in law , the Earle of Lennox Aranes sisters son , joyned to the Prelates , ( a Faction ever French , and then more than ever by the King of Englands shaking off the yoke of Rome ) especially the Archbishop of Glasgow , a proud Prelate , and ever factious . By these men , all Noblemen at home are despised and balked , and the Office cast upon John , called afterward Duke of Albanie , Cousin-germane to the late King , being then in France , brought up in France , and onely with the French tongue , where his father was banished and forfeited , and he himself not restored : yet is he by them , who had not so much power as to restore him in the minoritie of a King ( as had been proved in King James the second his time , against the Earle of March restored in his minoritie ) ordained to be Governour of the King and whole Countrey . Bent was the Chamberlain that way : And so bent he was , that he professed openly at the Convention , that though they would all refuse , yet he alone would bring him home , and make him Governour . A great word , if he were not able to do it ; a great power if he were able . It is interpreted ambition in him , and that despairing to have that honour conferred on himself , and envying it to any other , he took this course . I cannot be of that minde . He that had power to do so much for another , had power to have done somewhat for himself : At least so far as to have gotten some part of the government with others , as it was customable , when they could not agree upon any one man , they divided it . It is reported also for certain , that the Earle of Angus finding that he was so earnest in that course , went to him , and naming him familiarly by his name , Alexander , said he , what do you mean by this ? that man is a stranger to us , and understandeth not our language no more than we do his . He will work his own ends , and who knoweth after what manner ? Whether or not to the Kings prejudice , who is onely between him and the Crown . Certainly , he will never regard either of us , whom he will rather seek to depresse than to advance . Go to therefore , let us agree amongst our selves . Take you the government of the borders , and of all that lieth on that side of the river of Forth , and let me have the command on the other side . A fair offer , and a wise consideration , which the Chamberlain shall acknowledge hereafter too late , and shall himself say the like to him that now doth thus admonish him . For the present he refused obstinately , and ( as it may be thought ) fatally , persisting in his former resolution . Whereof when I consider what might have been the cause , I think it hath been not any distrust to obtain some place in the guiding of affairs , but a doubting how to keep it : if by chance any thwarting or insociablenesse of Empire should fall out between them at any time thereafter : in which case Angus could not but be the stronger by the power of England his allies , they having no partie so great to counterpoize them . For this cause he hath thought it fit to bring in the French to equall the ballance as principall , himself onely as accessarie , not doubting of a chief place both by his desert in bringing him home , and the necessitie of his service , which could never be lacking . On this rather than the other ground ( as I take it ) he hath laid down his course . But as well as he laid his grounds , hereupon he built both his ruine before three years were come about , and speedie repentance soon after the arrivall of his Governour . Howbeit upon this occasion the Duke of Albanie ( so called afterward ) is sent for , arrives , is made Earle of March , Duke of Albanie ( which his father had been before , but was forfeited ) and Governour untill the Kings ripe years . The Lord Hume comes to him , some say with a huge number ( 10000. horse ) to Dumbartan , whereupon the Governour said , he was too great to be a subject . Others report , that he came very privatly with his houshold onely ( some 24. horse in Kendall Green which was his Livery ) and that the Duke slighted him with this sentence , minuit praesentia famam ; being a man of low stature , and carrying no appearance of much stuff to be in him by his out-side . However he was then welcomed , and what faire and good countenance he got then , it lasted not long . John Hepburne Prior of S. Andrews was his enemie on this occasion . Andrew Stuart Archbishop of S. Andrews was slain at Flowdon . Three divers pretended to the place by divers meanes . Gawin Douglas Bishop of Dunkel , uncle to the Earle of Angus , by the Qneens admission , Hepburne . by the election of the Chapter , Andrew Foreman by the Popes gift . This Foreman was Abbat of Dumfermling , and Aberbrothe , Legat from the Pope , and had gotten this to maintain his grandour , or as a reward of his service . The question was hard to decidè . All pretended right and reason . Gawin Douglas had gotten possession of the Castle , and had put servants into it ; but the Priour was stronger about the town , and findes a mean to thrust them out . Foreman cannot get his Bulls proclaimed : none durst take it in hand so long as Hume and Hepburne . agreed . He workes wisely , having been born under the Lord Hume , he flees to him as his Patron , agrees with him as a friend , and gives the Abbacie of Coldinghame to his youngest brother David . He doth his turne , proclaimeth his Bull , but had no power in Fife to prosecute it any further . Yet it causeth Hepburne to come to a point , to take composition , the Bishoprick of Murray , and 3000. crownes by year , and a discharge for all his by-past intromissions . So he agrees with Foreman , but dis-agrees with the Lord Hume , and despites him with such malice , because of that morsell pulled out of his jawes , that he ceased not to work him what mischief he could . He did so possesse the Governour with jealousie of the Lord Humes and Angus greatnesse , and aspiring , that he thought there was no way to secure himself ▪ and his Government , but by ridding the Countrey of them both . Wherefore the Lord Hume repairing to him , and finding by his neglectfull carriage , and cold entertainment , the little good-will he bare him , repenting too late his forwardnesse in his election , and calling to minde what Angus had foretold him , though he had contemned his counsell , yet now seeing no other remedie , went to him , and the Queen his wife , condemning his fact , and regrating the present estate of the King and Countrey , and advised them to flie into England with the young King. When the Governour had notice of this consultation , he used such diligence and expedition , that coming to Stirlin unlooked for , he surprized the Queen ; and removing her , and the Douglasses from about the King , he gave the keeping of him to the Lord John Ereskin , and other three Noblemen . Hereupon the Queen and Angus , as also the Lord Hume , and his brother William , with-drew themselves into England , and the Governour upon their departure , sent Ambassadours to King Henry to clear himself , that he had done nothing why they should be so afraid of him , or leave their Countrey . He dealt also privately with themselves by their friends , promising and protesting to give them all content and satisfaction , in such wayes , that they beleeving and desiring to live at home , returned all of them , save onely the Queen , who being then near the time of her childe-birth , remained at Harbottle in Northhumberland , where she was brought to bed of Lady Margaret Douglas . Then assoon as she was able to endure travell , she went to London , where she was kindly welcomed , and lovingly entertained by her brother King Henry , and her sister Mary Queen of France , and afterward Dutchesse of Suffolk . But the Governours head being once filled with suspitions , and new causes of distrust arising dayly , could not be quieted by their return , nor the Queens absence , neither could he think himself bound by promises . Gawin Douglas Bishop of Dunkel , uncle to Angus , was committed to prison : John Lord Drummond his Grandfather , or mothers brother , & David Panetier Secretarie to the late King , were likewise laid fast . Alexander Lord Hume , and his brother William , were executed , their goods confiscat , their lands forfeited , and their heads affixed on the Citie Gate of Edinburgh , called the Nether-Bow . Being thus rid of the Chamberlain , he did much fear the Earle of Angus , whom he left to governe in his absence ( for he went into France ) but joyned with him the Earles of Arran , Argyle , Huntley , the Archbishop of S. Andrews , and Glasgow , together with a Frenchman , named Antonius Darsius , commonly known by the title of Sieur de la Beaute . To this La Beaute he allotted Dumbar , the Shires of Lowthian , and the Merse , where the Chamberlaines lands and friends were . This Darsius was slain by Sir David Hume of Wedderburn , occasionally , in the year 1517. the 18. of September . For this Sir David was out-lawed , his house seized , and Sir George Douglas ( Angus brother ) suspected to be accessarie , imprisoned in Garvet Castle , they not daring to meddle with the Earl himself , who was no lesse suspected to have been conscious of it ( though falsely ) because Sir David had married their sister Alison . Not long after this , there fell out an occasion of great troubles betwixt the Earle of Angus , and the Earle of Arrane . There was some question of the Bailiff-ship and right of keeping Courts in Jedward Forrest , the Earle of Angus his Lands , but in which Andrew Ker of Farnihaste challenged a right and priviledge of doing justice , and punishing male-factors as hereditarie Bailiff . In this controversie Arrane sided with Farnihaste , not for any particular relation , or because he thought his right was good , but onely in opposition to Angus , whom he hated inwardly . What the cause of his hatred was , we ●…ear not , and they had been good friends before . Arrans base sonne James Hamilton , as he was on his way towards Farnihaste to assist him , John Summervale of Camnethen set upon him , killed five or six of his company , took thirty men and horses , and pursued himfelf so near , that he was forced to turne in to Hume Castle for his safetie . This fact was imputed to Angus , on whom Summervale did for the most part depend , men thinking that it was done by his direction . But it is well known that besides this quarrell of the Earles , that man had ever a particular feude with the Hamiltons . But if the Earle had been guiltie of this wrong and offence done unto them , it is not likely that he would have been so slightly accompanied at Edinburgh , and have stayed their coming thither with so small forces , if he had suspected any ill meaning from them , or known any such deserving in himself . Besides they having so just cause , they might have complained and gotten redresse and satisfaction of the Earle by order of law , if they could have made it appear that he had any hand in it , and not have taken this violent course . Wherefore in all likelihood this was but a colour and pretext . Hereupon ( however ) in the year 1520. the 27. of April , a convention being appointed at Edinburgh where Archbald Douglas of Kilspindie ( the Earle of Angus his uncle , or Consin-German rather ) was Provest : the Hamiltons refused to come thither , alledging that they could not think themselves assured of their lives in the Town , where he was Provest . Archbald to cut off their excuse , and that he might not hinder publick businesse , laid down his office voluntarily , and in his room was chosen Robert Logane a Burgesse of Edinburgh . Then they came to the City , and finding the Earle of Angus there but meanly attended , and weakly guarded , his friends not being yet conveened , they assembled together with the chief Noblemen of the West in Archbishop Betons house in the Black-Frier-Winde ( this Beton was also Chancellour ) and there resolve by all means to apprehend Angus ; alledging that his power was so great , that nothing could be discerned freely , so long as he was free . The cause was plausible , their malice great , and the occasion fair , considering his singlenesse , and their multitude . So soon as Angus heard of their consultation , he sent to them his uncle the Bishop of Dunkell , desiring that if they had any grievance , or just quarrell against him , they would complain thereof to the convention , to whose censure he would submit himself , and make such satisfaction as it should please them to ordain . And to this purpose Dunkell spake to Glasgow the Chancellour , to move the rest to accept of this offer , and that he would not be an instrument of civill dissention . But he had fair perswading of him : no man was deeper in it than he , who was ringleader to the rest , and very Episcopally had put on armour to be present at it , and to assist them himself in person : yet he sought to excuse himself , and laid all the blame upon the Earle of Arran , who , said he , is highly offended with the Earle of Angus for many occasions , but chiefly for the affront done to his son by Sommervale , and for the slaughter of De la Beaute committed by his brother-in-law Sir David Hume , not without his knowledge , consent , and councell . For this cause Arran will needs have him to go to prison . There is no remedie , sayes Glasgow , upon my conscience I cannot help it . And in the heat of his asseveration he beat his breast with his hand , where his conscience lay well covered with a jack of Maile , or a Secret hid under his Seton or Cassock . And now being knocked upon , it answered with a ratling noise , which the plates of iron did yeeld , bearing witnesse against him how little he cared for that inward witnesse , which be-lyed him when he protested he was desirous to pacifie matters , being indeed thus preparing for warre . Neither did Dunkell stick to tell him so , saying , How now my Lord , me thinks your conscience clatters . We are Priests , it is not lawfull for us to put on armour , or bear Arms , it makes us irregular . And so leaving him , he returned to his Nephew , and told him shortly that there was no possibility of composing matters , and as little of escaping or fleeing , for the City Gates were shut , and his enemies were assembling . For me I am a Church-man , I will go to my Chamber and pray for you . And so he did , but he sent his servants with the Earle to aide him . Some ascribe this to want of strength , and to his debilitie and old age ; but it was indeed , because he held it not lawfull , as a thing forbidden in the Canon-law , and which he had reproached to Bishop Beton . For in the year 1513. his eldest brother George slain at Flowdon was but 44. and Gawin the fourth brother not above 38. or 39. so that now in the year 1520. he hath not been more than 46. which is no age of Decrepitnesse . Dunkell being gone to his devotion , Angus without further consultation resolves rather to die honourably defending himself against his enemies , than to be hailed ( he and his friends ) forth to the Scaffold , and lay their necks upon the block to be be-headed by their proud and insulting enemies . So he conveens his small troup , tels them what his minde was , and exhorts them to stand to it manfully . They all commended his resolution , and shewed themselves most willing to hazzard their lives for his safety . Wherefore that they might not be surprized in their Chambers , they came forth , and went down the High-Street ( for the Earle did lodge at the Straight-Bow ) being in all but 80. or 100. at most ; but they were all of them choice men , valarous , and hardie . Angus was well beloved in the Town , so that when he came by the Shops where the Pikes and Speares are made , they had libertie to furnish themselves with long Weapons , and many also were reached to them by the Citizens out at the Windows , and from the Stairs ; which was no small advantage , their enemies having no long Weapon at all . The Chief Street is so seated that the Gates being shut there is no entrie to it , but by some few Lanes that reach from the Cow-gate ; in one of which called the Black-frier-Winde the adverse party had conveened . Now that they might not issue forth upon him at divers places , and so oppresse him with their multitude , Angus had caused his men to close up and barre the entrances of the Lanes with Coale-horses , and Ale-barrels , Carts , and such things as would best serve for that purpose , and could be gotten on a sudden . He placed also some few men at every Lanes head to defend the Barricadoes ; but he himself with the choycest and most resolute of his company , planted themselves directly over against the Black-frier-Winde , which he had left open for them , and as they thronged out , he assailed them with Pikes and long Weapons . There having slain many of the formest that came out , and scattered them all , he drave the rest down the Lane , which by the narrownesse thereof , made their number unprofitable , as had been rightly fore-seen by Angus , who knew that a few would be able to make good a straight passage against many , their multititude availing nothing , scarce one of ten having room to fight at once , and come to strokes together . The Earle of Arran and his sonne James Hamilton ( having been apparantly of that number that issued forth at the Lanes head at first , or else he could not have gone that way ) crossing the High-Street , fled down a Lane on the Northside of the City , and finding a Coale-horse standing in their way , they threw off his loading , and rode through the North-logh at a foord where there is none known now , and so escaped easily , no man pursuing them that way . The rest were scattered on the other side of the Town , of which some fled to the Gray-Friers Monasterie for sanctuary , the Chancellour fled on foot to Lithgow . In the mean time , while they were at this bickering within the City with great tumult , William Douglas Priour of Coldingham ( Angus his brother ) and Sir David Hume ( his brother in law ) came to the City Gates with 800. horse which they had brought out of the Merse ; and finding them shut , broke open the wicket with Smiths hammers , and so entred . But before they could get in , the fray was ended . Angus strengthened and emboldened with this supply , because the City was still full of his enemies , caused it to be proclaimed with sound of Trumpet at the Market-Crosse , that none should be seen abroad with Arms but he and his , under pain of death . This enforced them of his adverse party to crave leave to depart , which was granted unto them . Such was his moderation towards those who had plotted his ruine and overthrow . He had fought for his life and honour , not out of malice , or hatred ; and now that these were out of danger he lets his enemies go away safe and sound . And so there departed of them in one company 800. horse well laughed at , and derided of the beholders , to see so many beaten and chased by so few . Besides these there were many others that had fled before , and divers stayed still in the City lurking . This conflict fell out in the year 1520. the last of April , in which there were 70. slaine , and two of note ; Patrick Hamilton brother to Arran , and the Master of Montgomerie . The Chancellour ( as we have said ) fled disguised to Stirlin to the Queen . After this , Sir David Hume returning to the Merse , and being thus strengthened by the authority and countenance of Angus , found means to take his own house of Wedderburne from those that had kept it since the killing of De la Beaute . He took also the Castle of Hume at the same time which had been seized on by the Governour , and was kept by men that he had put into it . And thus was the Earle of Angus partie settled and strengthened in the Merse . Also in Lowthian he had no opposition or contrary , neither in Tividale , and such other parts of the borders . The Hamiltons were the onely great men that had any equality to match him , and were now incensed by their losse at Edinburgh . Some of his friends lay near unto them , Robert Lord Boyde was his depender , and speciall friend . He was also near to him in bloud , for Angus his Grand-mother ( Elizabeth Boyde ) was sister to Thomas Boyde , Grand-father to this Robert. The Lord Boyde was nearer to Arran ; for King James the third his sister was mother to Arran , and Grand-mother to Boyde , as is probable . But Boyde followed Angus more than him . His house of Kilmarnock in Cunninghame , lay nearest to their Forces in Cliddisdale , and farthest from the Earle of Angus his power and friendship . Therefore they besiege it , but without successe , it being so well defended , that they rose and went away without getting of it . The next year ( 1521. the 18. of July ) Angus came to Edinburgh , accompanied with his friends , and especially the Humes that were banishshed , as our writers designe them . By which he means rathest ( as I think ) George now Lord Hume ( for he is Lord ever after this ) and Sir David of Wedderburne with his brothers , who may be said to have been banished , in regard he was denounced Rebell , and out-lawed : but otherwise he never went out of the Countrey , but dwelt ever still in some part of the Merse . There Angus ( as Buchanan sayes ) but ( as our folks say ) George Lord Hume and Wedderburne , by Angus his connivence , took down the heads of the late Chamberlain , and his brother William , and interred them solemnly in the Gray-friers . He passed from thence to Stirlin , hoping to have found the Chancellour Beton there , but he was fled . From thence he returned to Edinburgh . About the 28. of October , the Governour returned out of France . Angus his power seemed to him to be too great . He determines to diminish it . For which purpose he commands himself to go into France , causeth his uncle the Bishop of Dunkell to be sent for to Rome , as wee have said above . Neither did Angus return out of France , untill the Government was taken from the Duke , who from this time forward doth nothing of importance . For the next year 1522. he went with an Army to Solway to have invaded England ; But his Army loved him not ; all went unwillingly with him , and against the hair . The Earle of Huntly being come within three miles of England , openly refused to go any further ; so that he was forced to move Dacres and Musgrave ( English-men ) under hand to sue for peace , that he might have some shew of an honourable cause for his retreat . Wherefore the 10. of October the same year , away he goeth again to France having stayed one full year in Scotland , and returnes into Scotland the next year 1523. the 22. of September . He brought then with him 3000. foot , and 100. men of arms . Then assembling an Army of Scots ( the 20. of October ) thinking to do great matters with his French aid , but having passed Tweed at the Bridge of Melrosse , he was served just as he had been the year before ; they refused still to enter into England . Thereupon he came back again to the other side of the River , and coming along by the bank thereof on Scottish ground , he began to batter from thence the Castle of Warke standing on the other side of the River on English ground . And having made a breach caused his French-men to give the assault , who entred the breach , but they were repulsed again , and beaten out . So he left the siege , and retired to Lawder in the night . In the spring he goeth again into France promising to return before September , and taking a promise of the Nobilitie that they should not transport the King from Stirlin before his return . This their promise was keeped with the like fidelity as he had kept his promise made to the Chamberlain . For the King was brought to the Abbey of Halyroodhouse by the Queen his mother ; The Earls of Arran , Lennox , Crawford , and many others : And from thence with all solemnitie of Parliament , to the Parliament house , where he did solemnly abrogate the Governours authority : by which mean he saved him a labour of returning into Scotland again . He needed not , neither did he return any more to it , nor passe the Seas for that errand . He had governed , or rather mis-governed the space of nine years . He spent in his journeyes , and staying in France , five whole years , or six of these nine , being absent from the countrey , and leaving it a prey to forreiners , and civill ambition and dissention , and when he was at home , he abused and oppressed the Nobilitie by slaughter or banishment . But though he returned no more , yet others returned for him , those whom he had caused go to France by his authoritie , do now return without his licence , yea without licence or recalling of any other , for ought we read . The Earle of Angus returnes after he had been in France almost three years . He returned through England , having first sent Simon Panango , and obtained licence of K. Henry , by whom he was received lovingly , and dismissed liberally . For K. Henry desired greatly the diminishing of the Governours authoritie , & was glad of the alterations in Scotland , & therefore did make the more of Angus , because he knew that he was opposite to the Duke . At his returne he found the estate of the Countrey in this case . We told before , how in the year 1518. the Queen his wi●…e , and he , had with-drawn themselves into England , and stayed at Harbottle , where she bare her daughter Lady . Margaret Douglas : how her husband having returned into Scotland , she ( after her deliverie ) went to the Court of England to visit her brother and her sister , with whom she stayed for the space of a whole year . In which time the Earle her husband becomes acquainted with a daughter of Traquair , by whom he had a daughter called Jeane Douglas , married afterward to Patrick Lord Ruthven . When the Queen came home again , he meets her at Berwick , and brought her to Edinburgh . She having gotten notice of this wrong he had done her , never lived with him in that love they had done before . And now having set her affection upon a younger brother of the Lord Ochletrees , whom she intended to create Lord Methven , she was become altogether his enemie : And that so obstinately , that howbeit her brother K. Henry wrote to her , that for her own honour , for the peace and quietnesse of the countrey , and for the advantage of his affaires , she would be reconciled to him ▪ yet she not onely would not yeeld to it , but even sued for a divorcement before the Pope , at the Court of Rome , alledging that Angus had been affianced , betrothed , or hand-fasted to that Gentlewoman who bare the childe to him before he had married her , and so by reason of that pre-contract , could not be her lawfull husband . She prevailed not in her sute , for her alledgance could not be proved , being also untrue : but she increased in spight and hatred against him , and was set ( by all the means she could ) to overthrow him . This drew Arran to be of her Faction ; both of them disliking that Angus should be in the first place , and suspecting he would not be contented with the second , bent their Forces to contend against him as for dominion and empiring . On the other side there were the Earle of Lennox , and Argyle , who had assisted the Queen and Arran , and helped them to abrogate the Duke of Albanies authority , and to establish the King himself in the Government of the Kingdome . But now finding that the Queen and Arran took all the guiding of the King and Countrey into their own hands onely , and did not admit them to be any way sharers with them therein , but wholly excluded them from all copartnership , they were glad of Angus his returne : for they knew that by his power they should be able either to break the authoritie of the Queen and Arran , orto diminish it in some measure . Neither were they deceived in their expectation : for having conveened the greater part of the Nobilitie , Angus , Lennox , and Argyle , are chosen Keepers and Governours of the King and Countrey . Hereupon they passe forth with great celeritie , accompanied with 2000. horse , and move Archbishop Beton , Chancellour , to consent to the election , who did accordingly , not daring to refuse . Then to Stirlin they go , and there depose all that bare any publick Office , whom they suspected , and placed in their rooms such as were sure to their side . From thence they came to Edinburgh , and made there entrie without violence . The Queen and Arran remained in the Castle with the King , confident in the strength of the place , and the Kings ( though naked , and unarmed ) authoritie : but there being but a small trench cast up about the Castle , they yeelded themselves , and it , because they were no wayes provided for enduring a siege . The King onely was retained , and the rest dismissed . The order of governing agreed upon amongst these three Earles , was , that they should rule by turnes , each of them his foure moneths successively . The first place was Anguses , either by lot , or by consent . During the time of his presiding , the Abbacie of Holy-rood-house fell vacant , the Abbot thereof George Creichton being advanced to be Bishop of Dunkell . Angus conferres this Abbacie on his brother William , Prior of Coldinghame , either by himself and his own power , or by moving the King to conferre it upon him , and that without the consent of the other two , which he thought he needed not , seeing he was absolute Governour for his time . The other two thought themselves wronged by this balking , and thought that howsoever he was for those moneths to attend the King alone , yet that he ought not to governe , or dispose of any thing of moment by himself alone . So they take offence at it , and Argyle retires , and with-drawes himself home into Argyle . Lennox would gladly have done the like , but the King detained him for the love he bare him , yet did he utter his discontentednesse many wayes . Thus is the Trium-virate dissolved : for which dissolution Angus is blamed , as having encroached upon the others , and drawing all to himself alone . But he seemes to be unjustly blamed , if this were the time of his Government ( as it should appeare it was ) and not of attendance onely ; for they also attended the King at that same time . The decision of this question depends upon the words of the Act or Contract of their agreement in point of governing , which we have not precise . Yet they seem to have been too hastie , in that they did not expect their turne , during the time of which some such thing , or perhaps some better thing might have fallen in their donation , wherein if he had impeded , or hindered them , then they might have had just and undeniable cause to complain of him . Now they abandon their charge , and thereby give him occasion to administer all alone , which is imputed to his ambition . And so he takes all upon him , making small reckoning of their offence , which he esteemed to be unjustly taken ; and leaning to the greatnesse of his own power , which was such as we have said ; and was now also increased by having the Earl of Huntly for his ward and pupill , he being left Tutour by his Grandfather Earle Alexander Gordon , and having gotten the Wardship from the King ; so that now he had the friends and dependers of the house of Huntly to be his . In this mean time fell out the slaughter of Patrick Blackader Archdeacon of Dumblane , Cousin Germane to Robert Blackader , sometime Priour of Coldingham , and brother Germane to Robert Blackader late of Blackader . Robert the Priour of Coldingham had been slain before by Sir David Hume of Wedderburne , and his brother John Hume being in his company , is thought to have given him the deadly stroake . This Sir David married Alison Douglas sister to the Earle of Angus , and relict of Robert Blackader of Blackader . She had two onely daughters , married to two of Sir Davids brothers ; the eldest to this John Hume , and the younger to Robert Hume , who claimed , and possest the Lands of Blackader in the right of their wives , who were heirs of Line . Hence arose deadly feude betwixt them , and the name of Blackader , who challenged to be heirs by entailment of the Lands to the heirs male . Wherefore they had laid wait for John divers times to have slain him : especially at one time he being in a Taverne in Edinburgh , and his men being all abroad , or in another room with a Gentleman or two of his acquaintance , and companions , a Priest of Arch-deacon Blackaders came into the room where he was . John , not knowing who he was , desired him to drink with him out of courtesie , but he refused , and went forth presently . When he was gone , one of the house sayes to John , if ye had known who that man was , ye would not have offered him any wine , for it was such an one . If I had known ( sayes John ) that it had been he , I should have made him drink his bellie full whether he would or not . As they were thus talking , a servant of the house going to the door , espies the Arch-deacon coming with a great company of men , and came running to John and told him of it , who leaping to the door just as they were ready to enter , made good the door , and drave them back , so that with much ado , he and those that were with him found means to shut it . This attempt so incensed him , that having understood of the Arch-deacons coming to Edinburgh at this time , he lay in wait for him by the way , and slew him . This slaughter was imputed to the Earle of Angus by his enemies ; at least some aspersion thereof was rubbed upon him , because ( as they alledged ) Angus had sent for the Arch-deacon , and he was come upon his sending for , and ( as some said ) upon an appointment of agreeance to be made betwixt John Hume and him . But John ever in all discourse , or conference of that businesse denied that everthere was any appointment , or overture of agreement , or that he ever knew of Angus his sending for him . That which made it the rather beleeved to be done by Angus consent , or privity was , because when in the tumult raised upon the slaughter , divers went out to have apprehended John , Sir George Douglas ( the Earls brother ) went out also to have taken him at the Earls command , who was highly offended that he should have committed this insolencie in his government ; whom when the others saw , they suspected that he being Johns wives uncle , and seeing many Douglasses and Humes in his company ( who were friends and allied with John ) was come out , not to apprehend but to defend and assist him . Wherefore they returned from pursuing of him . Sir George also returned shortly after without finding him ; neither was there any search made for him after that : Angus ( besides that he was uncle to Johns wife ) having almost continuall use of serviceable and active men , being loath to offend his brother Sir David , and his other friends in the Merse . And now were things in working , and a faction making against Angus . Arch-bishop Beton , who had joyned with him rather out of fear , than good-will , had quickly fallen off from them : And Angus , to be revenged of him , had brought the King to his lodging in Edinburgh , and intrometted and seized on his houshold stuffe for his own use . Argyle and Lennox had separated from him : The Queen and Arran were his professed enemies . These had their friends about the King. Lennox was ever with him , and most entire of any . His domestick servants were corrupted by the Queen , who therefore all sought by all means to alienate the Kings minde from the Douglasses , detracting and calumniating their actions , some justly , many of them unjustly , aggravating their errours , mis-interpreting things doubtfull , concealing the good which they did , and traducing all . Thus did the King ( though to retain his favour they had used him with all indulgence , and had loosed the rains to all delights and pleasures , even more than was fit ) weary of their government . Yet were they so incircumspect , or carelesse , that they neglected to remove his suspected servants , and to place their own assured friends about him ; either not doubting them that were wi●…h him , or being too confident in their own strength and power , so that by little and little he became altogether alienate : at last he opened his minde to such as he trusted , and began to conferre with them of the way and means how to be set free from that bondage , as he was taught to call it . Above all he did most especially conferre with the Earle of Lennox . While they are in plotting of these devices , Angus ( either not knowing , or not caring what they were doing ) was much troubled in settling and ordering the borders , and the out-laws there . He had made many rodes thither , but effected nothing or litle . Now he takes resolution ( for the better furtherance ) to go into Tividale , and ( the more to terrifie the malefactours , and to encourage others against them ) to take the King with him . Being come to Jedbrough , he moves the King to command the chief of the Clannes to bring in such men as were given up by name in writing to him . It was obeyed ; and by that mean many were execute and put to death , many pardoned in hope of amendment , and that of the principall malefactours . While all are glad hereof , and their mindes loosed to some peace of contentment , the occasion seemed fair , and as it had been fallen from Heaven , to them who were enemies to the Douglasses , of taking the King out of their hands and custodie . The mean is devised thus , that Balcleugh ( who dwelt within a little of Jedbrough ) should invite the King to his house , and retain him there ( being not unwilling ) till more were come and conveened . But that plot failed by chance , or by discovery , the King being brought back to Melrosse . Notwithstanding hereof , Balcleugh resolving to prosecute , what he intended , would assay to do by force what he had failed in by craft . He assembled about 1000. horse of his friends and other borderers accustomed to theft . He cast himself to be in the Kings way , as he was to passe into Lowthian at the Bridge of Melrosse upon Tweed . The Earle of Angus sends to him , and asks his meaning , & wils him to retire . He answered , he was come to show himself , and his friends , to the King his Master , as other border-men did . Then a Herauld was sent to him , commanding him to with-draw himself out of the way , in the Kings name ; but his answer was , that he knew the Kings minde as well as he , and would not go away till he saw him . The Earle of Angus had not so many in number about him as Balcleugh , yet those he had being his choyce Gentlemen , together with the Chiefs of the names of Hume , and Ker , George Lord Hume , and Andrew Ker of Cesford , all valiant and active men , he resolved to hazzard battell . And because they were all come out on horse-back , he gave order that they should alight , and fight on foot . The Lord Hume answered , he would do so if the King would command him to do it . We hear not what answer was made , or that the King commanded , but he alighted , and took part very honestly with the rest . Balcleugh also alighted , but he had no sooner joyned battell , than a great number of his men ( better accustomed to steal then to fight ) fled away and left him . He himself , and his friends , stood to it manfully , and continued the fight , which was for a space very fierce and hard ; as being in the presence of the King , who was a beholder , and was to be the reward of the victor . At last Walter Scot of Balcleugh , being hurt , his whole company turned their backs , there being fourscore of them slain , and having first slain Andrew Ker of Cesford . Balcleugh escaped himself out of the Field . Hereupon began deadly feude betwixt the Kers and Scots ; or was renued and continued divers years after , and divers murthers and slaughters followed upon it , amongst which was the slaughter of Sir Walter Scot himself in Edinburgh . There my Lord Fleming also alighted with Angus , and took part in the conflict ▪ but the Earle of Lennox sate still on his horse by the King , as an indifferent spectatour , and looker on . He being before a suspected , but now ( by this ) a declared enemie to the Douglasses with-drew himself from Court. This fell out about the 18. of July 1526. After this attempt , Angus perceiving so many evil-affected toward him , entred into parleying with the Earle of Arran ; and having composed their old differences , received him to be his partner , and fellow-governour in ruling the Countrey . This did the more incense Lennox against them both , and his anger made them both the more watchfull and carefull to strengthen themselves against him . The ground of their dissention was this ; Lennox was Arrans sisters sonne ( as hath been said ) and failing heirs of his own body , was to be his heir , and to succeed as well to the Earldome of Arran , as to his right and title to the Kingdome of Scotland , after the King and his heires , and there being great appearance of it , Lennox had conceived great hope that he should be his heir , because his uncle Arran had been long married to the Chamberlan Hume his sister , and had no children by her . She also her self ( whether because she was of good age , or because she had been so long barren ) had lost all hope to conceive ; whereupon her husband ( either by her advice , or not without her consent , as is thought ) divorceth from her , pretending he had before he married her , lien with a kinswoman of hers , that was so near in bloud , as made his marriage with her incestuous , and so could not be brooked by him with a good conscience . So being divorced , he marries one Beton , daughter to Creigh in Fyfe , who was brother to Beton Archbishop of S. Andrewes . This was a great stop in the Earle of Lennox his hopes , chiefly concerning the Earledome of Arran , for as touching the Crown , the report went , that the King would entaile that to him , out of his own favour . Neither was his hope of Arran quite given over , if the divorcement could afterward be quarrelled either in substance , or formality , which Lawyers might readily do in a subject of this nature , which is so full of questions and doubts . These things wrought jealousie , that contrariety , and alienation of mindes , which soone begat hostility and hatred . The diversity of faction increased it , and it bred and increased the faction . The King held firm for Lennox , or was held firm by him , and sent him many private Letters to many of the Nobilitie , with whom he dealt , and drew a great faction . In which being very confident , he assembled them at Stirlin , where was Arch-bishop Beton , and divers other Bishops . There he propounded in plain terms , the setting of the King at liberty ; which they decreed and appointed a day for the performance and execution thereof . Angus so soon as he had found the winde thereof , and had begun to smell it out , had written to the Earle of Arran to come to Lithgow , where they might meet , and take such order as was needfull . Arran was not slow , but gathered his Forces quickly , and kept the appointment . Lennox hearing of it , resolved ( though the day were not yet come that was appointed for his associats to conveen at Stirlin ) to adventure to set upon the Hamiltons , before Angus ( who was at Edinburgh ) should joyne with them , with such power as he had ready about him . The Hamiltons having notice of Lennox his intention , advertised the Earle of Angus thereof . Angus made ready , and addressed himself for the journey , but he got many letts and impediments . The King also did hinder and stay him not a little , for he lay long a bed , pretending indisposition and sickishnesse , he marched slowly , and stayed often , and made many halts by the way , as being weary , and troubled with loosenesse of his belly , which moved him often to untrusse , which he did onely for an excuse of purpose to stay them . Angus perceiving it , and fearing lest he should come too late , left his brother Sir George , and some few with him to attend the King , made all the haste he could to joyn with Arran in time . In this mean while , Lennox was come from Stirlin straight to Linlithgow ; and the Hamiltons issuing out of the Town , had manned the Bridge , which is a mile from the Town ; and the rest had put themselves in order of battell along some small hi●…s not farre from the Bridge . This forced Lennox to forsake the passing of the River by the Bridge , and to crosse the water at a foord a little above , near to the Abbey of Machlein . He exhorted his men to assaile the Hamiltons , before Angus should come to assist them : and they made haste , but by too much haste they broke their ranks , and having the little hils to climbe up , they were out of winde when they came to strokes , and withall the cry arose that Angus did approach . So the Hamiltons assailing them with long Weapons from a ground of advantage , and the Douglasses also coming upon them on the other hand , Lennox his men were over-thrown , being sore wounded . This was done ere Sir George Douglas could come to them , who desired greatly to be with his brother , but was held back by the Kings pretences . It is constantly reported , that Sir George seeing the King linger thus , and knowing that he did it of purpose , said to him in great fury , It is as much as our lives are worthy , if our enemies get you from us to day ; which , rather than they shall do , we will hold fast one half of you , and let them pull away the other . These words the King never forgot , nor forgave ; neither would ever hear of pardoning him ; when he seemed not to be implacable towards the rest . When the King could not stay Augus any longer from going to aide the Hamiltons , he sent Andrew Wood of Largoe to have saved Lennox life by all means . But he was slain in the chace by the Earle of Arrans base son James Hamilton , who used the victory cruelly , and whom afterwards a Groom of Lennox wounded almost to death , having stabbed him in five or six places , in revenge of his Lords death . He was lamented of his uncle Arran with many tears ; by Angus with sorrow and sadnesse of heart ; but above all , the King took his death ill , seeing his care to save him not to have succeeded . It is said that when he was coming from Stirlin , Arran sent to him , and prayed him not to come forward , but to stay , otherwise that he would force him to fight him , which he desired not to do . To which Lennox answered ; That he would not stay , but would go and see the King maugre him , and all that would take his part . But his purpose was directly to fight the Hamiltons , and not to go to the King ; for he could not go to him , and leave them strong behinde him , having the Douglasses before him . There were slain with him the Laird of Howstoun , and the Master of Glencarne was sore wounded , and hardly saved by the Earle of Angus , whose Cousin he was ( brother and sisters children ) as is said above . After the Battell , those that had born arms against the King were enquired after , and summoned to compeere in judgement ; but some of them compounded for money , some became dependers to the house of Angus , some to the Earle of Arran . The obstinate were pursued by Law , such as the Earle of Cassils , who alledged for himself , that he had the Kings Letter to show for his warrant , to do what he had done ; whereupon they desisted from further processe against him ; which I see no ground why they should have done upon a private Letter ; and as little reason is there why they could not charge him with the hurting or slaying of some man , seeing he was in the Battel . It should seem they would not have been so malicious , & vehement against men , as our writers give out ; or not so pregnant in the inventing of crimes and quarrells , as men are now a dayes . Cassills was slain by the Sheriffe of Aire his friends ( a little after ) at the instigation of Arrans bastard , who had killed Lennox at Linlithgow , because he stood to justifie himself , and refused to become a depender of the house of Arran . His son betook himself to the protection of the Douglasses , came to Archbald Douglas of Kilspindie ( who was then Thesaurer to the King ) and was kindely received by him , and lovingly entreated , as one who for his noble birth and towardlinesse he intended to make his son-in-law . Now the Earle of Angus knowing well that Archbishop Beton was one of the chief stirrers up of the Earle of Lennox in this enterprise against him , remembring also how he had before stirred up Arran in the same manner , and his assisting of him at Edinburgh , and many other times , goes now to S. Andrews , takes the Castle by force , and pillageth it , but could not apprehend the Fox himself , who fled from hole to hole , and linked secretly amongst his friends . The Queen also ( lest she should come intoher husbands hands ) kept her self hid and solitarie . These escaped their search . After this he went to the Border , where he caused the principall of every Name to give pledges and hostages for their good behaviour , and keeping of good order . And first he went into Liddisdale with an army , where they came and yeelded themselves to him ; and the rest of the Borderers followed their example . And now had the Earle of Angus settled all things , in all appearance . His enemies were overcome on the East hand at Melrosse ; on the West at Lithgow ; the Earle of Lennox was dead , and his Faction dispersed and broken , the Queens authoritie dashed , and Bishop Beton beaten out of the cock-pit , both put to save themselves by hiding , all husht , and under hatches ; no partie , no faction , no men to make head against him . An estate highly esteemed , greatly affected , and much sought for by men . But as in our bodies , fulnesse of health hath the own danger , so in our estates , too great prosperitie and ease are the fore-runners of change , which ( as experience doth teach ) is even then at the doores when there is least appearance otherwise . It fell out just so now while the Douglasses were thus secure of all danger , knowing too well , and leaning too much to their own strength , no partie to take the King from them , no place strong enough to keep him in when he were taken , nor to keep them out , no meanes to effect either the one or the other , and threupon grew slothfull in attending him , are often abroad about their businesse , he findes first the place , then the means to escape , then the party to maintaine it , and at last to over-throw them . The Queen ( his mother ) had the Castle of Stirlin as a part of her dowrie , which , while she ( for fear of the Douglasses ) hides her self , was left emptie and waste , and yet not seized on by them , who were neither so greedie , as men would have them to appear , by so much ; neither so circumspect as wise men should have been , to secure themselves , knowing the fitnesse of the place for such a purpose , the disposition of the owner , and the inclination of the King toward themselves . Now her fear being somewhat abated , and the coasts being clear of them , the Queens servants returned thither , and furnished it more for show , than sufficient resistance of any Force . The King making ( wisely ) choice of it , knowing there was no other place so strong , pretending the conveniencie of hunting ( even to her ) transacts secretly with her , and gives her Methwen in exchange for it , with other Lands about Methwen , no lesse convenient and profitable for her . And so he had gotten his first point , a place of retreat . The meanes how to retire , were easie , which was the next . He was in Falkland , which was not far from Stirlin , in a countrey not subject to the Douglasses , nor near their forces and power . Angus , and Sir George his brother , are both absent about affairs of the Countrey , and none of theirs we hear of , that were to attend the King , or few and negligent they were , as men are wont when they are secure . So he goeth from Falkland , to Stirlin in the night , with a few of his familiar servants , as secretly as he could . Having gained these two points of them by their errour , there rested the third ( without which these errours had been no errours to them , nor advantage to him , they had been of no effect nor importance ) that was a partie to maintain the retreat . This is the main point , and their main errour , the cause , and the ground of the other two errours , that made them slothfull in seizing that house , in attending the King , because they laid their ground , there could be no partie in Scotland . And Buchanan writes concerning the Earle Bothwels refusall to be Lieutenant against them , that he saw them a little before to be such , as all the rest of Scotland were not able to match them . But they took not heed , nor considered , that then the King was with them . However his minde was against them , he was in their custodie and power , and if any had been ill-affected to them , he could be no warrant to any Faction , having no assurance of his life which was at their disposing , and therefore he could not be a Head to any : These considerations being of no small consequence , as the event now proves : for he is no sooner gone from them , than he findes a partie against them , now that he could be a Head to a partie . He writes for many of the Nobilitie , they come all to him : others upon the first news of his retiring , came without staying till they were sent for . So that he quickly found himself free , and out of danger to be forced . Then by their advice he causeth make a Proclamation , that the Douglasses abstaine from all administration , and handling of publick affairs , and that none of them , or their dependers , come within twelve miles of the King , under pain of death . This Edict being brought to them , as they were on their way toward Stirlin , many of their friends advised them to go forward , but the Earle himself , and Sir George , resolved to obey , and perswaded the rest to do so . A dutifull and wise resolution , if there was not sufficient power with them to go forward , which others that counselled them to go on , have thought sufficient : And if withall they had resolved to lay down their necks under the yoke , and beare whatsoever should be laid upon them . But that they did not resolve to do , as appeareth afterward , therefore they lost here also the occasion which might have procured them peace on better and more equall termes . They returned to Linlithgow to remain there till they should hear farther from Court. This their 〈◊〉 , and not going forward to Stirlin , is such an over-sight , as a man could scarce have looked for at so wise and resolute heads and hands . But where ruine is determined , wisedome is taken from the wisest , and hearts from the hardiest . They will disobey more out of time hereafter . The King makes use of that respit of time , assembleth more and more Forces , summonds a Parliament in September . They go to Edinburgh , and assemble also their friends more fully . Both parties aimed more at their own security , and to defend themselves , than to offend the other , yet they give place again , and the second of August leave the City , which day the King entred with displayed banner : from thence ( by entreatie of friends ) he sent conditions to them , which if they would obey , there was some hope showne of clemencie and gentle dealing towards them . These were , That the Earle of Angus himself should be confined beyond Spey , and his brother Sir George , together with his uncle Archbald of Kilspindie , should go to prison to the Castle of Edinburgh . But they rejected the conditions , and thereupon were summoned to compeare at the Parliament in Edinburgh the sixth of September . In the mean while their Offices are taken from them , the Chancellorship from the Earle , which we hear not when it was given to him . Archbishop Beton had been Chancellour in the Governours time , he had consented to the Triumvirate , and afterward had left and forsaken them . Then hath it been taken from Beton ( as far as we can conjecture ) and given to Angus . It was now given to Gawin Dumbar the Kings Pedagogue in law matters , one who was no ill man , but who was thought to be a greater Schollar , than wise and prudent for government . The Thesaurers place was taken from Kilspindie , and given to Robert Carnecrosse , a man better knowne by his bags of money , than for his vertues . Thus driven to their last hopes , they labour to hinder the meeting of the Parliament , by taking of Edinburgh where it was to sit , and from whence the King was returned to Stirlin . For this end they send Archbald of Kilspindie , with some troops of horse , to assay what he could do . A poor shift , if they had gotten it . But the King had prevented them , and sent thither Robert Maxwell , who with his friends and dependers , assisted by a great number of the Commons , excluded them , and with watch and ward kept the town till the Kings return . Hereupon Angus retired to his house at Tantallon . The day of the Parliament being come , they were cited , accused , condemned , and forfeited ; the Earle , Sir George , Kilspindie , and Drummond of Carnock . The main cause , and clearest evidence given in against them , was , that the King swore he was ever in fear of his life , so long as he vvas vvith them . It is strange that his feare should have seemed a sufficient cause and evidence of forfeiture . Their absence was no cause , for they were prohibited to come vvithin 12. miles of the K. & they had forgotten to release them from that command & interdiction . Sir John Ballandine , who was then one of their dependers , & afterward Justice-Clerk , knew it well , and did freely and courageously protest in open audience , that nothing done there should be hurtfull , or prejudicial to the Earle , because he had just cause of fear , & so of his absence , which should be declared in the own time ; which was both an honest part toward his patron , and a wise and stout part in it self . Upon this protestation the forfeiture was reduced seventeen years after this . But for the present it goeth on , and an act was also made against such as should receive , them , that they should be liable to the same punishment of forfeiture . Soon after this , William , Abbot of Halyroodhouse ( Angus his brother ) died through sicknesse which he had contracted by grief and sorrow for their estate . The rest , seeing no appearance of pardon , make now for open violence . Who can think but it was as unfit now , as fit to have used it when they stayed from going to Stirlin ? But then they have had hope of more favour , which hath marred all their course . Better late wise than never , time was driven , but they counted it not lost , because by their so long patience they had given proof of their goodwill ; now they will shew their enemies what power they had then ; and that it was willingnesse , not weaknesse , made them to forbeare doing more than they did . They burn Cowsland , and Cranston , and daily rode about Edinburgh in view of the City , so that it was in a manner besieged , the mean sort suffering for the faults of the great ones . By this their proceeding , the theeves and broken men of the borders , and elsewhere ( whom they had before restrained in their government ) loosed from all fear of them , waxed bold to come out of their lurking places , and greatly molested the Countrey people about them . Many outrages were committed by many , in many places ; oppression , theft , murders , and robberies . All was imputed to the Douglasses , and called their doing by the Courtiers , thinking thereby to please the King well . There was a Ship ( called the Martin ) which being loaden with rich Ware , brake about the Skate-raw , and the common people came and took away the goods from the owners ; this was laid also upon them , and their faction and followers , though nothing of it came to their use , unlesse it were that some of their stragling horsemen , happening to be there at that time , might perhaps get their share with others . About this time the King resolves to besiege Tantallon Castle in Lowthian , some sixteen miles from Edinburgh , and for that purpose causes bring Ordinance , Powder and Bullet from Dumbar , which was then kept by the servants of the late Governour the Duke of Albanie , as a portion of his patrimony . There was in Tantallon one Simcon Penangoe , with a competent number of men , well furnished and provided both of Victuals and Munition . The Earle himself remained at Billie in the Merse , within his Baronie of Bonkle , not willing to shut himself up within the Wals of any strength , having ever in his mouth this maxime ( which he had received from his Predecessours ) That it was better to hear the Lark sing , than the Mouse cheep . The Castle was well defended for certain dayes , none hurt within ; many without were wounded with shot from the Castle , and some burnt and scalded with their own Powder , which took fire unawares , and divers killed . The besiegers were troubled without by the horsemen , who assaulted them daily at their trenches , so that seeing no hope of carrying it , they raised their siege , and retired . In their retreat they were set upon in the Reare by Angus his horsemen ; and one David Falconer ( a principall Cannonier ) slain with some otherhired Musketiers , and two of the Cannons cloyed . This the K. took so highly ( esteeming it an affort and scorn put upon him ) that he ●…wore openly , that so long as he lived , the Douglasses should never be received into favour . He was then young , and in his hot bloud , and saw not their worth , or at least looked upon it through the prospective of an angry passion ; but before he died , he saw it more setledly and clearly , and that their service was more steadable than all theirs that were now about him . Being come to Edinburgh , he adviseth what was next to be done . It was thought fit to keep a company at Coldingham , which needed not to be very great , but onely to lye there constantly , to preserve and protect the common people from their incursions . But that was to Bell the Cat ; a good designe , but difficult to prosecute . Billie ( where Angus made his residence ) is within five miles of Coldingham , and all the Countrey about did favour him ; yea , some in that same Town it self did bear him good will. The task to execute this conclusion , was laid upon the Earle Bothwell , who was the most powerfull man in Lowthian . He refuses it absolutely , as that which he was not able to perform . So is the King driven to think of another . The Earle of Arran was the greatest in power and friendship ; but he had slain the Earle of Lennox at Linlithgow , and was in societie with the Douglasses . He doubts with what zeal or fidelity he would prosecute the businesse . Argyle was in great account , for warrelike and politick wisedome ; But he lay farre off , in the North-West parts of the Kingdome . There is no remedie , he must be the man ; he is made Lieutenant , and ( as our Writers say ) by the Lord Humes assistance drove Angus out of Scotland . But all our ancient men , who lived in those dayes , and were present at those doings , and actors in them , say the contrary , That he did no good , but came to Dumbar , and some of his companies going before , were set upon at the Peeths , and three or fourscore of them slain . Hereupon was made this rime in derision , beginning thus : The Earle of Argyle is bound to ride From the border of Edge-bucklin bray , And all his Habergeons him beside , Each man upon a sonke of Stray , They made their vow that they would slay , &c. Neither did the Lord Hume take any particular dealing against him ; neither did he leave Scotland , being compelled thereto by force ( as our traditioners say ) but upon the King of Englands desire , who wished him so farre to obey and yeeld to his Prince . He also caused him to render Tantallon up to the King. What warrand the King of England had , and what promises by word ( for it stood not with his honour to give any thing in writ , that his clemency might be free and voluntary , and not by capitulation ) our History doth rather glance at it , than expresse it in these words ▪ That the Castle of Tantallon being rendred , the King should under his hand-writing assure them of the rest of their petitions . Yet the Castle being rendred , the rest were not ( for all that ) sincerely kept . What he speaks of the rendering of the Castle , ou●… old men ( acquainted with these mysteries ) speak also of the Earles leaving Scotland ; That both were done upon these promises . They tell also what the promises were , that they should be received again , pardoned , and get their peace ( the Kings honour being once thus salved by his going out of the Countrey , and rendering of the Castle ) within such a space as was agreed on . Our Histories also signifie no lesse by the exception which it makes in this : The rest ( sayes he ) were not sincerely kept , except that favour was granted to Alexander Drumond to return , &c. Then his return hath been one of the conditions , seeing it is accepted as one of them that were performed . Neither hath the condition been that he alone should return , but that they should be brought home all of them . He signifies also , that Drumonds return was not permitted out of any respect to the promise , but at the request of Robert Bartaine . So that the exception is no exception ; and so nothing hath been keeped . But the King of England ( to whom the promise was made ) was not at this time disposed to exact the performance of it , and to back his exacting of it with ▪ 40000. men , as Princes promises should be urged . Men say he had other work in hand , and businesse of his own to request for ; which was to desire his Nephew James to be quiet , and not to trouble his Kingdome while he made Warre against the Emperour Charles . Yet afterward in the year 1532. he sought it directly amongst the conditions of peace ▪ that the Douglas ( according to his promise ) should be restored . For King Henries own part he entertained them with all kinde of beneficence and honour , and made both the Earle and Sir George of his privie Councell . The Kings anger still continued against them in such sort , that nine years after , in 1537. he was contented that Jeane Douglas Lady Glames ( who was Angus sister ) should be accused by false witnesses , condemned and execute . The point of her accusation was , that she , and her husband ( Archbald Campbell then ) and her sonne and an old Priest , had gone about to make away the King by Witch-craft . Their servants were tried and racked , but confessed nothing , the accuser John Lion ( a Kinsman of her first husband ) when he saw how they were like to be used , and that the house of Glames would be ruined , repenting of what he had done , confessed to the King that he had wronged them ; but it did no good . She was burnt upon the Castle hill with great commiseration of the people , in regard of her noble bloud , of her husband , being in the prime of her years , of a singular beauty , and suffering all , though a woman , with a man-like courage , all men conceiving that it was not this fact , but the hatred the King carried to her brothers , that had brought her to this end . Her husband seeking to escape over the wall of the Castle , ●…ell , and broke his leg , and so died . Her sonne was kept in prison , because he was so young that the law could not strike against him . Others were committed to Ward , as Sir George Hume of Wedderburne ( who was Angus his sisters son ) to the Black-Nesse , for whom his mother Dame Alison Douglas coming often to entreat the King for him , though he alwayes used her courteously , and gave her good countenance ( and that almost onely to her of all their friends ) so that his language was by way of excusing without deniall , yet she could obtain nothing till a little before his death about the rode of Fawla , when hee began to misse their service , then he set him at libertie . His implacabilitie did also appear in his carriage toward Archbald of Kilspindie , whom he ( when he was a childe ) loved singularly well for his ability of body , and was wont to call him his Gray Steell . Archbald being banished into England , could not well comport with the humour of that Nation , which he thought to be too proud , and that they had too high a conceit of themselves , joyned with a contempt and despising of all others . Wherefore being wearied of that life , and remembring the Kings favour of old toward him , he determined to trie the Kings mercifulnesse and clemency . So he comes into Scotland , and taking occasion of the Kings hunting in the Park at Stirlin , he casts himself to be in his way , as he was comming home to the Castle . So soon as the King saw him afar off , ere he came near , he ghessed it was he , and said to one of his Courtiers , yonder is my Gray Steell , Archbald of Kilspindie , if he be alive . The other answered , that it could not be he , and that he durst not come into the Kings presence . The King approaching , he fell upon his knees , and craved pardon , and promised from thence forward to abstain from all meddling in publick affairs , and to lead a quiet and a private life . The King went by without giving him any answer , and trotted a good round pace up the hill . Kilspindie followed , and ( though he wore on him a Secret , or shirt of Maile for his particular enemies ) was as soon at the Castle gate as the King. There he sat him down upon a stone without , and entreated some of the Kings servants for a cup of drink , being wearie and thirstie : but they fearing the Kings displeasure , durst give him none . When the K. was sat at his dinner , he asked what he had done , what he had said , and whither he was gone ? It was told him , that he had desired a cup of drink , and had gotten none . The King reproved them very sharply for their discourtesie , and told them , that if he had not taken an oath , that no Douglas should ever serve him , he would have received him into his service , for he had seen him sometime a man of great abilitie . Then he sent him word to go to Leith , and expect his farther pleasure . Then some kinsman of David Falconer ( the Cannonier that was slain at Tantallon ) began to quarell with Archbald about the matter , wherewith the King shewed himself not well pleased when he heard of it . Then he commanded him to go to France for a certain space , till he heard farther from him . And so he did , and died shortly after . This gave occasion to the King of England ( Henry the 8. ) to blame his Nephew , alledging the old saying , That a Kings face should give grace . For this Archbald ( whatsoever were Anguses or Sir George his fault ) had not been principall actor of any thing , nor no counsellour or stirrer up , but onely a follower of his friends , and that no wayes cruelly disposed . He caused also execute Sir James Hamilton of Evendale , for divers reasons : but that which incensed him most , was his correspondencie , and secret trafficking and meeting with the banished Douglasses , especially with Sir George , whom he met with in the Park-head , as the King was informed . There was no man that he could hear had but received them into his house , but he caused apprehend , and execute the rigour of the law upon them . He caused the Laird of Blackader bring in John Nisbet of the Spittell , and made him to be executed to death , for receiving ( as was alledged at least ) the Earle of Angus into his house . These many executions proceeding from many reports and delations given to him , bred great suspition in his minde , all the woods seemed full of theeves . Many were put to death for the Douglasses ; this was a token that they had many favourers : many were offended by these executions , and so many ill-willers by being offended . So his suspition against the Nobilitie was daily increased , his jealousie growes , cares multiply , his minde is disturbed , which would not suffer him to sleep sound , but troubled his head with dreames and fansies . In the mean time the Warres began with England by mutuall incursions on the Borders . The King sent George Gordon Earle of Huntley to the Border to represse the English. But they seeing his Forces so small , came forward to have burnt Jedburgh . The Lord Hume hearing of their intention , went and lay in their way . The Earle of Angus had been sent down to the Border by the K. of England , to wait for occasion to do something against Scotland , and was now with these English here . Hee disswaded them from fighting , and told them , that the Lord Hume would not flee , nor his men leave him , and that they would all die at his feet . But they would needs fight , and were overthrowne . The Earle of Angus himself was almost taken , for he was caught about the neck , and rid himself again with his dagger , and so escaped . There were some slaine , more taken , all scattered and chased . The King was so glad hereof , that he gave the lands of the Hirsell to Sir Andrew Ker of Little-dean for bringing the first newes hereof : but he that was the chief actor the Lord Hume got nothing . This was at Halden rig . Then was the rode of Fawla , where the Nobilitie did flatly refuse to fight , and suffered the English to retire , and escape without battell or skirmish . The King being there in person , was so enraged hereat , that he burst forth into open railing against them , calling them cowards , and beasts that were not worthy of their places or Predecessours ; and withall told them , that he should bring home those that durst and would fight , meaning the Earle of Angus and his friends . Then followed on the neck of this the defeat at Solemne-Mosse , where Oliver Sinclar being deserted by the Nobility , was 〈◊〉 to flie , and so lost the day , and many were taken prisoners ; many also yeelded themselves to the English. The King , who was not farre off , when he heard of it , was wonderfully commoved , having his minde distracted with indignation , anger , grief and sorrow ; now thinking how to be avenged on them that had dealt thus traiterously with him ; then of new preparation for the Warres , & how it should be managed . For which he saw now there was but one way left , which was to bring home the Earle of Angus , upon what ever terms ; seeing at last what a subject he had thrust from him , and repenting him , said he should bring him home , that would take order with them also . But it was too late , for his death ensuing shortly after , hindered the execution of that purpose . He died the thirteenth of December 1542. leaving one onely daughter Mary his heir behinde him , a childe of five dayes old . But although he lived not to effect his determination , yet he gave them an honourable testimony of their worth , and withall made a confession of the wrong he had done to them , and gave them a clear absolviture from all former imputation . And so for their part they rest satisfied with it , and seek no other . The King was dead , who had purposed to have brought them home , his will is enough to them ; they stand not on ceremonies , they come home now unsent for . There were taken prisoners at the Solom-Mosse , seven Earles and Lords , foure and twenty others of inferiour , but good place and quality . When King Henry of England had triumphed a while over them ( causing to lead them from the Towre of London to Court through Cheapside Street the 20. of December upon Saint Thomas day ) he rebuked them as breakers of Covenant by a long harangue of his Chancellour ▪ who magnified the Kings mercy , who did ( said he ) remit much of the rigour he might justly have used against them . After this they had some more freedome ; and when the news of the Kings death was come , he dealt kindly with them , and told them his intention ; which was to have their Kings daughter married to his sonne Prince Edward , that so the Nations of England and Scotland might be joyned together by that alliance ; for affecting of which match he takes their promise to favour his designe , and to set it forward at home as farre as they might without dammage to their Countrey , or reproach and infamy to themselves . So ( having first taken pledges and hostages of them at New-Castle , by the Duke of North-folke , for their return , in case the peace were not agreed on ) he sent them home to Scotland the first of January 1543. with these returned our Douglasses ( the Earle and Sir George ) after fifteen years exile , and were received of all with great joy and gratulation . Onely they were not welcome to the Cardinall . They had been ever at variance , they ranne divers courses in policie , he suspected their Religion , specially Sir Georges . He knew they would not approve nor ratifie the Kings testament which he had forged ▪ wherein he was made Protectour and Governour , with three Noblemen to be his Assessours . He doubted not , but that they would oppose him in the Parliament ; and therefore here he found means to be chosen Governor before their retu●…n . Yet his fraud was detected before they came home , and he debouted , and put from that authority . In his place James Hamilton Earle of Arran was chosen , as being the man to whom it properly belonged , as next heire , and best beloved , partly because they had a good opinion of his towardly disposition , and that he was not averse from the reformed Religion ( whereof he willingly read the controversies ) partly because they hated the Archbishop Beton and his priests crueltie , which put every man in fear of their government . That businesse was settled ere they came home . The next point was the marriage of the young Queen , which they were to set forward with England . The Queen mother , and the Cardinall , and the whole faction of the Priests , oppose this way with all their might and power . But they prevailed not , and the Cardinall because he troubled all , and would suffer nothing to be done orderly , he was shut up in a Chamber till the matters were concluded , and pledges promised to bee given to the English Ambassadour Sir Ralphe Sadler for performance . Ambassadours also were sent into England to treat on the conditions ▪ They were , the Earle of Glencarne , Sir George Douglas , Sir William Hamilton of Machane , and the Secretarie of estate . These remained foure moneths in England , agreed at last , and concluded all articles and conditions . But in their absence , the Cardinall was set at liberty , who troubled all , gathered a contribution of the Clergie , and what by bribing , what by other practices used by him , and the Queen , turns the Nobilitie quite an other way . When those that had been sent into England were returned , and found things in this estate , they were much grieved at it , and laboured to recall things , and to perswade them to keep their promise made to King Henry . To move them hereto , Sir George Douglas spake to them very earnestly , and told them the apologue of the asse , which a King did love so dearly , that he had a great minde and desire to have her to speak : and having dealt with divers Physicians to make her to speak , they told him it was a thing impossible , and gainst nature ; but he being impatient , and not enduring to have his desire crossed , slew them because they told him the truth . At last he trying about what others could doe , one , who was made wise by their example , being required to do it , he undertook it ; but withall he shew him , that it was a great work , and would be very chargeable . The King being set upon it to have it done , told him he should have what allowance he pleased , and bade him spare for no charges : and that besides he would reward him liberally . The Physician told him that it would prove also a long cure , and could not be done in a day ; ten years were the fewest that could be allotted to it . The King considered of it , and was contented to allow him that time for performing it ; and so they agreed , and the Physician began to fall to work about his asse . His friends hearing of it , came to him , and asked him what he meant , to take in hand that which could not be performed in nature . He smiled , and said unto them , I thought you had been wiser than to ask me such a question : if I had ( sayes he ) refused to take it in hand , he had put me to death presently , now I have gained ten years time , before which be expired , who can tell what may happen . The King may die , the asse may die , I my self may die ; and if any of these happen , I am freed . In the mean time I shall be in good estate , wealth , honour , and the Kings favour . Even so ( sayes Sir George ) stands the case with us at this time : if wee refuse and leap back from the conditions that are propounded and agreed on , wee enter into present Warre , for which we are very unfit , and ill provided . If we embrace them , we gain time , we shall enjoy peace and quietnesse during the Queens childe-hood , and before that be expired , Prince Edward may die , our Queen may die , King Henry may die , or the parties when they come to age , may refuse one another , or then perhaps ( as things may fall out ) it may be thought the best way by us all . But he could not perswade them to it , the Queen mother , and the Cardinall , the Pop●…sh and Politick Faction standing for France , and drawing all to that end , had so wrought the matter , that there was no place le●…t to any wholesome councell . These two for strengthening of their party had sent to France , and moved that King to send home Matthew Earle of Lennox a competitour and counterpoyse to the house of Hamilton . He came , being put in hope of the Queens marriage ▪ and to be made Governour , but when he saw himself deluded , and Beton preferred to the government , in effect upon agreement of Arran , and the Cardinall ( wherein Arran had renounced the controverted heads of Religion , and addicted himself fully to the Queen and Cardinall , to be ruled by them ) he forsook them , and so did also the Governours chief friends leave him , and turne to Lennox : And now Lennox had made a strong party against the Governour and the Cardinall , but at last he was drawn to come to a Parley with them , first at Edinburgh , and then at Linlithgow , where finding that they intended to intrap him , he fled in the night , first to Glasgow , then to t●…e Castle of Dumbartan . About this time the Hamiltons and Douglasses were reconciled : and for further assurance of sincere and firm friendship , Sir George Douglas , and Alexander Cunninghame Master of Glencarne , were given as pledges ( the one for his brother , and the other for his father ) to the Governour Hamilton , upon promise to be released within a few dayes , but they were kept till the English Army came . Angus himself also , and the Lord Maxwell going to mediate a peace betwixt the Governour and Lennox ( a dutifull part of a Nobleman , and of a good Patriot ) was retained ; and both sent out at a back-door at Glasgow , to Hamilton , while their followers did wait for them at the ordinary fore-gate of the Governours lodging . Angus was sent a●…terward to the Black-Nesse , and kept there a close prisoner . Thus were both he and his brother in the hands of their enemies : neither did their wisedome or experience , the examples of their Predecessours , or their own maximes and rules save them from being intrapped . But who can keep himself from deceit : What wisedome was ever able to do it ? we heard before in the Lord Hume ( Chamberlain ) how he was catched , and therefore no wonder , though the young Douglasses ( put to death in Edinburgh Castle ) were deceived . It is wrong to impute it to want of fore-sight , as these two ( who were at other times wary enough ) may witnesse . They may thank God more than their own good guiding , if they escape with life ; but that God doth worke it out , where their wisedome failed ▪ He sends in the English Navie , which was bound for Boloigne , under the command of the Earle of Hartford . Some sayes that they were so directed by King Henry to relieve the Earl and his brother ; some , that it was to revenge the rejecting of his affinitie . However it was the mean and occasion of their releasing . For having landed at Leith unlooked for , the Governour and Cardinall were forced to flee out of Edinburgh , which they burnt , being abandoned by them , and the Citizens being most of them absent about their Traffick . The Governour , either required to do so by the Earle of Hartford ( who threatned to destroy more of the Countrey after the same manner if he refused ) or of his own motion , so to regain their favour , and service of their followers , set them all at liberty , Angus , Maxwell , Glencarne , and Sir George . Their wisedome saved them not from being catched , but their worth releaseth them , either in the judgement of King Henry ( if it were his request ) or in the estimation of their enemies , if it came meerely ▪ of themselves , who saw how steadable , yea how necessary their fav●…ur was to them . That which had brought them home , if King James had lived , procures their liberty from this Governour now when the King is dead . Envie committed them , true valour brings them out of prison . So it is seen ere long : for Lennox being ●…orsaken by the French , and his partners overthrowne by the Hamiltons , he fled into England , and was well received and entertained by King Henry , who gave him also his sisters daughter by the Earle of Angus , Lady Margaret Douglas to wife . On her he begate Henry Lord Darneley , who was married to Queen Mary of Scotland . He sought to have married the Queen Dowager , he is rejected ; but he fares better , and comes to reigne in both the Realmes by his Posteritie . Let men look on it , and see the deepnesse of providence , and learne not to distrust in whatsoever strait , seeing the worst doth often occasion the best ; for even in exile being condemned and for●…eited , he was laying the foundation of this returne . Of these dissentions at home , the Forrein enemie takes advantage , the K. of England sends an Armie to Scotland , burnes Jedburgh , and Kelso , takes Coldinghame , and fortifies the Abbay and steeple thereof . Thither goes the Governour Hamilton with 8000. men in winter , and batters the steeple one whole day and night , all the Company standing all that while in Armes . The next day he took horse , and went to Dumbar with all the speed he could , accompanied onely with a few of his most familiar friends , without acquainting the Nobilitie or Armie with his departure . What it was that moved him hereto , is uncertain , whether it were some rumour of the enemies approaching , or that he feared lest his own Armie ( whom he had offended many wayes ) should have del●…vered him into the hands of the English. This troubled them all so much the more , because they knew not thereason of it . Wherefore they began to advise what was next to be done : Some thought it best that every man should go whither he would , and leave the Ordnance a prey to the enemie . Others thought it was better to charge them double , and so to break them , that they might not be usefull to the enemie . Thus is the case brought to an exigent , this is the place for the Earle of Angus to shew himself to be a Douglas of the right stamp . So he doth ; he rejects both these wayes as dishonourable , and exhorts them , that they would not ad de this grosse errour in Warre to their shamefull flight . But when he could not perswade them either by reason or authoritie , he cryes out aloud , that they might all hear , For my part ( saith he ) ●…had had rather die honourably , than live with shame , though with never so much riches and ease . Ye that are my friends and companions in armes , do what you think best , but I shall either bring home this Ordnance , or shall not bring home my self alive , and one and the same day shall end both my life and my honour . Having spoken thus , he commanded them to go on with the Ordnance , and he with his Companie , and some few moe that stayed with him for shame , marched after , to keep off the English that pursued them , and so brought them safely to Dumbar . Then turning him to the Master of the Ordnance , Take them there to thee ( saith he ) better thus , than either broken , or left behinde . A sober and gentle reproof to those that had abandoned him , yet such as might put them in minde of their fault . The honour was his , but the fault ( more observed oftentimes ) redounded to the discouraging of the Countrey , and emboldening of the English , which gave new occasion of stirring up in him the ancient vertues proper to the name , valour , and love of his Countrey . Sir Ralph Ivers , and Sir Brian Laiton , had made divers in-rodes into Scotland , in the Merse , Tividale , and Lawderdale , with good successe , finding no man to oppose or make head against them . The Inhabitants of those places , had for the most part yeelded and taken on the badge of England , the red Crosse , or at least kept themselves in strong places in safetie from the enemie . They esteemed all conquered , and for that which rested , they made account to conquer all unto Forth . So to Court they go , and sue to the King for a reward of their service , the inlarging of his Dominions . The Duke of North-folk , who had made warre in Scotland divers times , and knew the fashion of the Countrey , how easie a matter it was to make the Commons ( when they wanted a Head in time of Civill and intestine dissention ) to yeeld to any conditions ; but withall know also , that they would presently cast off the yoke so soon as they found any to lead them into the field , he perswades the King to bestow upon them for their reward , all the Land that they had conquered , and to encourage them to go on , promiseth unto them all the Land that they could conquer more thereafter . They come to the Borders full of hopes , and increase their Forces by the addition of 3000. hired souldiers , with intention to go on with their conquest . This did greatly grieve such Scots as remained true Scots indeed . The flight from Coldingham had discouraged them ; they could look for no good from the Governour . But he who had his Rose Garland unstained there , must be the man to do the turn here also . Angus had large possessions in the Merse and Tividale : therefore he had his particular interest , and could not so easily leave his lands for a prey to the enemy , nor suffer so great an indignitie in publick , and reproach to his Countrey . Being moved with both these considerations , he goeth to the Governour , and layeth before him the greatnesse of the danger , and how he did suffer in his own reputation for the businesse at Coldingham , and would now suffer more if he sat still and did nothing at this time : Wherefore he exhorteth him to take some course for the safety of the Countrey , and to repair his own honour . The Governour bewailes his own estate and condition , that he was not able to do any thing ; being deserted by the Nobility , whereof he complained heartily . Angus replyed , and told him it was his own fault ; For they ( said he ) would willingly hazzard and bestow both their lives and fortunes for the defence of their Countrey , but you contemn their counsel , and have given your self over to be guided by a company of Priests , who are unfit to go abroad to the War●…es , and are seditious at home ; being free from perill themselves , they live on the fruits of other mens labours like Drones ; abusing and spending all upon their own pleasures . From hence doth spring this suspicion and jealousie betwixt you and the Nobilitie , that none of you doth beleeve or trust other , which is the bane of all actions , and hindreth the atchieving of any matter of moment . But if you will apply your self to them , and consult with them , who will not spare to spend their lives in the execution of things ; I do not distrust but as honourable acts may be performed by us now , as have been done at any time by our Predecessours ▪ But if by sloth and negligence ye suffer the enemy thus to encroach by piece-meal , he will at last force us either to yeeld to him , or forsake the Countrey : of which two it is hard to say which is the most miserable and shamefull condition . As for us two , I know we are traduced by our enemies , they accuse me of betraying my Countrey , and you of cowardise , but if you will resolve throughly and soundly to do that now , which you must needs do some time , it shal not be a flourished speech , and painted words , that shall confute their calumnies , but the flourish of Armes , and a Pitched field . The Governour considering the truth , and honourable counsell given him , promised to follow his and the rest of the Nobilities advice . Hereupon Proclamation is made and sent into all the Provinces about , commanding the Nobiltie to repair to the Governour with all the haste they could , wheresoever he should happen to be . There came not above 300. horse , with these they march toward England ▪ and by the way some few of Lowthian , and some of the Merse joyn with them . So they come to Melrosse upon Tweed , where they intended to stay , and wait for the rest that were coming . The English were come to Jedbrough before , and now being advertised of the small number of the Scottish Army , they march toward Melrosse , having 5000. men in their Army , in great confidence to defeat so small a number as was with the Governour , who besides that they were so few , were also ▪ wearied with their journey . The Scots had notice of their coming , and thereupon retire to the next hils , where they might with safety espie what course the enemie would take . The English frustrate of their hope ( which was to have surp●…zed them ) stay about the Town and Abbey of Melrosse , which had been spoyled not long before , to see what more spoil they could light on , untill it were day ; for this was in the night time . As soon as it was day , they began to march back toward Jedbrough , and the Scots ( to whom had now joyned Norman Lesly with 300. Fifemen , and Sir Walter Scot of Balcleugh , with a very few of his domesticks ) encountered them by the way . Both Armies alighted from their horses , and fought on foot . The English confiding in their number , and hoping with a few houres travell , to perchase honour and riches with peaceable and quiet possession of the Lands that were granted to them by their Kings gift , fought very valarously . They had divided their Army into three battels ; and seeing the Scots Grooms ( who rode up the hill with their masters horses , which they had put from them ) they supposing they had been the Scottish Army fleeing , made great haste to overtake them . And so ere they were aware , they were hard upon the Scottish battell , which stood in array in the valley at the foot of the hill unseen till now . At the first encounter their Foreward was beaten back upon the middle , and both together upon the Reer-ward ; so that their Ranks being broken , and all in confusion , they were constrained to flee , and the Scots following hard upon them in grosse , slew them down right without resistance . At night when the Scots were returned from the chace , every man repairing to his Colours , they found but two of their own slain ; & of the enemie ( besides Sir Ralph Ivers , and Brien Laton ) 200. or ( as others say ) 800. amongst whom there were divers Gentlemen of good note and qualitie . There were taken prisoners ▪ 1000. or as others 2000. ( with all their baggage which had been left at Melrosse ) of which there were 80. of good birth and qualitie . It was no little furtherance to the victory , the advantage which the Scots had of the Sunne going down , and so beating full in the eyes of the enemy : as also of the Winde that blew the smoak of the Powder on their faces likewise , so that they were blinded two wayes . They had also marched so fast to overtake the Scots , that they were quite out of breath almost ere they came to strokes ; and when they came to them , at the first joyning , the Scots that were on their side fled without fighting . It is said that the Earle of Angus was so resolute and void of feare , that when they were going to joyn battell , he perceiving a Heron flie over their heads , cryed out aloud ; `` O that I had my white Gose-hawke here , we should all yoke at once . The honour of the victorie was wholly given to him , and the profit came to the Governour . But the more honour that Angus got at home of his own countrey-men , the more hatred he had of the Enemy the English. King Henry blamed him , saying he was ungratefull , and vowed to be avenged of him for it . As if any gratitude could binde a man to betray his Countrey , or any benefite tie him to omit his duty toward it : Angus had never learned such gratitude of his Predecessours , nor could his noble heart stoop to such mercenarinesse . And as for his threatnings , he looked upon them with the same courage and resolution . Is our brother-in-law offended ( sayes he ) that I am a good Scottish man ? Because I have revenged the defacing of the tombes of my Ancestors at Melrosse upon Ralph Ivers ? They were better men than he , and I ought to have done no lesse : And will he take my life for that ? Little knows King Henry the skirts of Kirnetable , I can keep my self there from all his English hoste . The newes of this victory being come to France , the King sent Monsieur de L'orge Earle of Montgomerie into Scotland with 3000. foot , and 500. horse , to assist against England . He gave him also commission to bestow the order of the Cockle ( or S. Michael ) on the Governour , Angus , Huntley , and Argyle , which he did accordingly . De L'orge arrived about the fourth or fifth of July 1545. and moved the Governour to assemble some power of men , about 15000. which were mustered at Hadington . From thence they went to the Borders , and encamped over against Warke , an English Castle upon Tweed . But they did nothing to any purpose . Hereupon the Count Montgomerie returnes into France the rest of that year , and the next following , with a good part of the year 1547 ▪ there was nothing done abroad , or at home , save that the Cardinall was busied in causing execute such as were of the reformed Religion , whereupon followed his own tragicall death , and the French Galleyes coming , besieged S. Andrewes Castle , and carried away the authors of the Cardinals slaughter into France . The Earle of Angus hath had no hand in all these broyles ; for he is never mentioned in any of them . Only his naturall son George is said to have gotten the Abbacie of Arbrothe . But then ( if he got it ) he might have been called Abbot , and not Postulat , or Postulant , which ▪ implies , that he was ever asking it , but got it not . In the same year 1547. in August , King Henry of England dying , his son Edward ( a childe of some eight or nine years of age ) succeeded , and his Uncle the Earle of Hereford was created Duke of Sommerset , and made Protectour of England . He levied two Armies to come against Scotland , one by sea , another by land , in which he came himself in person , and with him the Earle of Warwick . It contained 18000. men . He pretended for the cause of his coming , the performance of the marriage betwixt the King his Nephew , and the young Queen of Scots , together with the observation of the Articles agreed upon with the Scottish Nobilitie in the Treatie of Peace with King Henry . The Governour was mightily perplexed herewith . He had no forraigne aide , and he distrusted his Countreymen at home . Notwithstanding he causeth it to be proclaimed , that they should assemble themselves to resiste the common enemie . They had their randezvous at Edinburgh , and there came thither to the number of 30000. men . From thence they march to Musclebrugh , which is seated at the mouth of the river of Eske in Lowthian some foure miles from Edinburgh . The English lay at Preston within two miles , and their Fleet sailed along the Coast , still in the view of the Land army , & ready to second or succour it . The Protector looking down from Carberrie Hill , and perceiving the Scottish Army to be greater than he had expected in regard of the civill discord and dissention that was amongst them , called a Councell of Warre , to advise about the Battell ; and in the mean time he sends a Letter to the Governour , to try if things could be taken away without blood . The summe of the Letter was , that he was come to crave the performance of the marriage , and the observance of the conditions agreed unto by the Scots . If they would not yeeld to that , yet if they would but promise not to enter into terms of marriage with any other forrain Prince , nor carry her out of the Countrey till she were come to years of discretion to choose her own husband , they should return in peace , and make satisfaction for any dammage their Army had done . This was very reasonable ; but it should have been treated of before they came from home , and rather by Ambassadours than in the field and camp . It hath never been the cause of their coming with an Army , but rather hope that no head could have been made against them ( in respect of the dissention for Religion and other divisions ) which perswaded them to come : Now the sight of an Army which was a sufficient party for them , had taught them wisedome and moderation in their conditions . If the Governour could also have moderated his hope of victorie , which arose from his confidence in the number of his men , the bargaine had been agreed on , and the businesse had ended without blood . But his councell of Warre ( his base brother the Bishop of S. Andrews , George Durie ▪ Abbot of Dumfermling , Archbald Beton , and Hugh Rigge ) puffed him ▪ up with idle hope of a sure victory . So the Letter is supprest , and preparation made for battell . The Armies were thus ordered . The English were divided into three battels ; Whereof Warwick led the Vaunt-guard , together with Sir Francis Brien , who commanded 800. light horsemen which were in the wings . The Protectour himself commanded in the mid battell , having with him Sir Peter Mewtas with 600. Musketiers , and Jamboas a Spaniard with 1000. horse with Carabins . The Reer was conducted by the Lord Dacres , to whom was joyned Sir Richard Manners with 600. light horsemen . The men at Arms , and demilances , were commanded by the Lord Gray . The Scottish Army was also tripartite , of which Angus had the Vaunt-guard ; to whom were joyned Coile , Carrict , and Cunningham , with Stirlin-shire , and Stratherne , to the number of 10000. in all . The like number was with the Governour in the middle Ward , and as many with the Earle Huntley in the Reer . The English had resolved on a fair retreat toward Berwick , thinking it not fit to hazzard a battell upon such disadvantage in the number of men ; and not being able to stay without fighting , for want of vivers , which they could not bring in out of the Countrey by forraging , in regard of the neernesse of the enemy . In the mean time they perceive Angus with the Vantguard coming marching up the hill against them . He made no great haste at the first , knowing they could not stay long , thinking it better to assaile them in their retreat . But the Governour sent him word to advance , and yet for all that he marched but leisurely , till he sent to him again , and commanded him to mend his pace , assuring him that he and Huntley should be hard at his hand to support him . Then he marched so fast that the English beholding them from the hill , beleeved they had been all on horseback . Wherefore the Lord Gray wàs sent with his men at Arms , and demilances , on barbed horses , to stay them , and ( if he could ) to break their Ranks . The Scots were close joyned together ( as their manner is ) and carried long speares , not unlike the Macedonian Phalanx : Angus encourages them , exhorts them to fight manfully , & adviseth them to kill the horses by pricking them in the belly , for they were armed in the Counter . These men ( said he ) shall be our prey if ye do so . They followed his counsell , charged the enemy fiercely , and kept their Ranks so whole and close , that 200. of the English were brought to the ground and killed ; the rest retired to their companies . The Protectour commands the Lord Gray to charge again , but he answered ; that he might as well command him to runne against the walls of Boloigne , for it was as impossible to break through the Scots Ranks , as to break through a Brick-wall . Hereupon the Protectour resolved either to retire , or flee as they could , & called for some Scots in his army , who knew the wayes , to be their guides . One of these was named Thomas Lorraine , a Tenant to the Laird of Red-brayes in the Merse , of whom many have often heard this report . The Earl of Warwick adviseth to try another way ; he causeth Jamboas the Spaniard with his Carabins to set upon them in flanke . Hereupon they , lest they should break their Phalanx , turned softly toward him , from the right ascending of the hill , which way they were in before . The Governour with his mid battell seeing them declining from the straight way which led to the enemy , and which they had been in before , supposed they had fled , aud so brake their own Ranks , and fled first themselves . Huntley with his Reer followed the Governours example , and fled likewise . The Vaunt-guard thus destitute of all support was overthrown , and most of them all killed . The English Ships had greatly annoyed the Scots Reer with shot from the Sea , for there was one Galley , and two Pinnaces , that came so near to the Shore , that they reached the enemy with their Ordnance , and Lochinvarre was slain by one of their shots . This the Governour and Huntley alledged for their not coming to succour the Vaunt-guard after the first charge , because their men ( chiefly the High-landers ) refused to go with them being so troubled from the Ships . There were slain in this battell a great number , and those of the Flowre of the Scottish Nobility ; amongst whom were the Masters of Ereskine , Grahame , Methvane , Oglevie , Levingston , and Rosse ; the Lords , Fleming , Glencarne ▪ the Lairds of Lochleven , and Sir George Hume of Wedderburne . The Earle Angus his brother , Sir George , and Glenbarvie were commanded to keep themselves on horseback , and ride about the companies to exhort them and keep them in order . It was so much the more easie for them to flee , yet Glenbarvie was hardly pursued for the space of foure miles , being taken for the Earle of Angus , because he rode on a py-bald horse that was known to be the Earles . Angus himself escaped , and came that night to Calder , very heavie and sorrowfull for the losse of the battell , and of his friends . Many fled to the Castle of Dalkeeth , amongst whom was James Douglas Earle of Morton , afterward Regent of Scotland ; and David Hume of Wedderburne , brother to Sir George Hume that was slain in the field . The Castle was besieged by the English , and defended a while , but wanting provision of victuall for such a number of men as had fled thither , and having no hope of any relief to come to them against a victorious Army , it was rendered , and these fore-named made prisoners . The Earle of Angus complained heavily that he had been thus abandoned by the Governour and Huntley , and laid the blame on them of the losse of the day , and of his so many dear kinsmen ând friends , especially to the Queen-mother ; whom he went to visit at Stirlin . She seemed to be much grieved therewith , but was thought not to be discontented that the Hamiltons had suffered this disgrace , and their pride and authoritie was thus abated , which made for the setting forward of her project , which was to wring the Government out of their hands , and winde in her self into that place ; as also to bring in the Frenchmen , under the pretext that the Countrey was not able to maintain the warre against the English , who had fortified Insh-Keith , Saint Columbs Insh in Forth , Broghtie on Tay , Hadington on Tine ; at Lawder and Roxburgh built Forts , and taken the Castles of Hume , and Fascastle . The French were sent for ▪ and came into Scotland at her request , these places were all regained by their assistance , the young Queen Mary was conveighed into France , to be married to the Daulphine , Francis the second afterward . Then the Queen-Mother dealt with the Governour to demit his place , which he did at last , and she was substitute into it as her daughters Deputie , having Monsieur D'Oselle ( a Frenchman ) for her Counsellour and adviser in all affaires . This was done in a Parliament in the year 1555. the 10. of April . All this while we hear nothing of the Earle of Angus , save at the siege of Hadington , where when the wals were battered and made assaultable by a sufficient breach , the French ( who were there ) refusing to enter the breach , ( because they being far from home , they could not easily repaire their losse of men ▪ ) the Earle of Angus moved with indignation hereat , left them , and went to Tantallon to remain there . And again , when Monsieur de Termes besieged Broghtie upon Tay , Angus is said to have been with him , and lying at Breeghen with some horsemen to have skirmished daylie with the enemie . At last both Broghtie , and another Castle near unto it were taken , and almost the whole Garrisons slain that were in them . And now the Queen-Mother being Regent , all her care and endeavour was to bring Scotland into subjection of the French. For this purpose a motion was made , that all men should be taxed proportionably , according to their meanes , and the moneyes levied thence , should be imployed to wage souldiers for the defence of the Countrey , that so the Gentlemen and Nobilities travell and bloud might be spared . None liked of this course , but every one eschewed to be the first refuser and opposer of it . At last the small Barons sent Sir James Sandilands of Calder , and the Laird of Weemes to her , whose speeches are set down at length . Thus our Writers say : But the ancient men report , that the Earle of Angus was the man that made the refusall ( it may be he joyned with them ) and that he came to Edinburgh , accompanied with 1000. horse , which was against her Proclamation , whereby it was forbidden that any man should have any moe in train then his domesticks and houshold servants , which was to make way for , and was another meane of their intended tyranny . She reproved him for transgressing the Proclamation by being so accompanied . He answered ; That the Knaves would not leave him , that he would gladly be rid of them , for they did eat all his Bread and his Beefe : that he would think himself much bound to her , if she would make him free and quit of them . Concerning the tax which she desired to be made , he said briefly ; We will fight our selves , and that better than any hired fellows ; our Prededecessours have done it , and so will we do also . They tell also how at another time , she desired of him to have his Castle of Tantallon to keep warders , in or upon I know not what pretext , or for what use . To this hee gave no direct answer for a long time , but having a Gose-hawke on his fist which he was feeding , spake of her , saying she was a greedy Glad , that she had already too much , and yet desired more . But when the Queen insisted ( not understanding , or not willing to understand his meaning ) he told her , Yes Madam , why not , all is yours , ye shall have it , it is at your service : But Madam , I must be Captain and keeper of it : I shall keep it for you as well as any man you shall put into it . They tell also how the Queen Regent had intention to make the Earle of Huntley a Duke ; whereof when she was discoursing with Angus she told him , how Huntley had done her very good service , for which she intended to advance him and make him a Duke , to which he answered , Why not Madam , we are happy that have such a Princesse , that can know and will acknowledge mens service , and is willing to recompense it : But by the might of God ( this was his oath when he was serious and in anger , at other times it was by Saint Bride of Douglas ) if he be a Duke , I will be a Drake ( alluding to the word Duke , which in Scotland signifies a Duck as well as that title and dignitie , which being the female , and the Drake the male , his meaning was he would be above and before him ) Our Predecessours ( sayes he ) have done as good service as he or his , for which they have the priviledge to be the first of the Nobilitie after those of the blood Royall , and I will not lose it in my time upon any such pretext . So she desisted from further prosecuting of that purpose . Not long after this he died in Tantallon , and was buried in Abernethie , when he had lived from his marrying the Queen in the year 1514. in continuall action , all the minority of King James the fifth , his majority , all the time of the Duke of Albanie , of the Governour Hamilton , and of the Queen-Mother , till the year 1556. or 57. the space of 44. or 45. years ; to which if we shall adde his age at his marriage ( of which we have no certainty ) and suppose it to have been 20. years , hee hath lived some 64. years . He was a man ( besides his other vertues spoken of ) of greater wisedom than he made show of , or then did appear unto men . His brother Sir George ( who died before him ) was more learned , and of greater eloquence , with whom he entertained alwayes brotherly love and friendship , and would seem to be guided much by his counsel , so that when any suit was made to him , his answer was , We shall advise with our brother . But his brother would tell them ( who came to entreat him to mediate with the Earle ) in plain language , that if he had referred it to his advising with him , it was a thing he intended not to do : for ( sayes he ) what he mindes to do , he never adviseth with me . Neither was he hereby accounted lesse wise indeed ; for even this was a point of wisedome , that he would have his brother seem more wise , which did no whit diminish nor derogate any thing from him . It was of this brotherly affection , that he espoused his brothers quarrell against George Lord Hume about the Lands of Cockburnspeth , or Colburnspeth , as some will have it termed . The Lands were possessed by one John Hume , who was a near Kinsman to the Lord Hume , but for some unkindnesse or hard dealing and usage of the said Lords towards him , he chose rather to sell them to Sir George Douglas . To put his brother in possession ( or to keep it ) the Earle assembled out of Cliddisdale , Tividale , and other parts to the number of 3000. men . He was also assisted by Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , and the Laird of Blackader , together with the rest of Wedderburnes father brothers , all of them except Broom-house , who followed the Lord Hume . Angus brought with him field-pieces , and all provision of Warre . The Lord Hume with his forces came to the Moor above the Park-gate of Cockburnspeth , and alighting from their horses , put their men in order of battell . But when he saw Angus begin to march toward him , and that none came between to bring the matter to a Parley , he shrunk back over the ditch that was near by . Hereupon Angus ( thinking it enough to retain his brothers possession ) stayed his Companies , and stood still . The Lord Hume retired , and going homeward , scattered his Company , and the Earle did the like . Here a quarrell was like to have arisen betwixt John H●… of Blackader , and one Douglas of Jedward forrest . For when Angus began to march against the Lord Hume , this Douglas sayes to Blackader ; Now we of the Forrest , will teach you of the Merse to sight . The other answered a little angerly onely for the time : but when all were retired , he challenged Douglas for those words : to whom Douglas answered , were ye angry at my words ? when the other said he was , It is well ( sayes he ) that ye were ; for I was afraid you would not have been half angry , nor have fought half eagerly , there being so many Humes on the other side . Besides his wisedome and brotherly affection , the Earle of Angus is also reported to have had a great dexteritie in conciliating mens favour . There was no man whom he would not winne with his courtesie and affabilitie , no man but he would take notice of him ; and pretended to know either himself , or his father , or his Grandfather , or some of his friends , whom he would praise unto them , and tell what honest men they had been , and what good service they had done in such and such a place , at such and such times . Of which they relate this instance , how being in Edinburgh talking ( in the Tolbooth ) with the Lord Drummond , there came a friend to Drummond , and took him aside to speak with him a little . When the Gentleman had ended , and was going away , Angus takes him kindly by the hand , and spake familiarly to him as if he had been of his acquaintance . After he was gone , my Lord Drummond asked Angus whether he knew the Gentleman or not ; he answered , that he knew him not at all , and had never so much as seen him before . How com●…s it then ( sayes Drummond ) that ye spake so familiarly to him ? He answered , I saw he was a friend of yours , and your friends are my friends : And besides , this doth gain mens hearts , If I were now in danger , or had to do , yonder man would assist me , and take my part . Archibaldus Secundus . Quam praestans animi juvenis formâque decorus , Et fuerim tantis , tunc quoque dignus avis . Testis erit thalamo quae me dignata Superbo , Nympha , parens Regis , filia , sponsa , soror . Consiliis promptumque manu Teviotia laudat , Quae stratas acies vidit Ivere tuas . Atque tuas Latone : loquetur nos quoque fort●…s Esca lothi , & dextra hac me meruisse mori . Quin jam victor eram , ni Prorex Gordoniusque , Sive metus trepidasuasit abire fuga . Seu dolus aut error , liquissent turpiter hostem , Dum premo qui fugiens jam mihi terga dabat . Summus at hinc mihi surgit quod sanguine Creti , Sint nostro reges terra Britanna tui . Archbald the second Earle of that name . How lovely was my shape ! how sweet a grace Dwelt in my looks ! how like the Douglas race ! How gallant was my minde ! what hopes were had Of my fresh youth ! witnesse the Royall bed Of her who had been daughter , sister , wife , To three brave Kings ; how my ensuing life Made good these hopes ; how wise my projects were , Ivers and Laiton vanquish'd , witnesse beare . Pinkie beheld my strength , there had I gain'd The field , but Huntley , and the Regent stain'd Their honour : fear or errour made them flee , Ev'n when I wonne ground of the Enemie : Yet do not these such height of honour bring As t' have been Grandsire to Great Brittains King. Of David the eighth Earle of Angus : And of his father George , called Sir George of Pittendrigh . TO Archbald the second , dying without heires male of his own body , his brother Sir George of Pittendrigh should have succeeded , if he had out-lived him , wherefore we will speak a word of him . He got the Lands of Pittendrigh by marriage . His children by the heire of Pittendrigh ( whose name was Douglas also ) were David , who succeeded to the Earledome of Angus , and James Earle of Morton , and Regent of Scotland . This James got the Earledome of Morton by marrying the third daughter to the Earle of Morton , who was Douglas also , and so was made Earle by provision . Her other two sisters were married before , one to the Lord Hamilton Governour , and the other to the Lord Maxwell . He had also a naturall son , called George of Park-head , because he married the heire of Park-head in Douglas , she was also Douglas to name , of whom he begat James , afterward Lord Torthorall , by marriage likewise , and Sir George of Mordington . He had also a naturall daughter by the Lady Dundas , in her husbands time , called Elizabeth , who was married to Smeton Richeson . Of this Sir George we have spoken above in his brothers life , and how he died before his brother . His son David married Elizabeth Hamilton daughter to John Hamilton of Samilston , called John of Cliddisdale , brother German to Duke Hamilton who was Governour . She bare to him one onely son called Archbald , and two daughters , Margaret first Lady Balcleugh , then Countesse of Bothwell ; and Elizabeth Lady Maxwell . His wife after his death married the Laird of Whitelaw , and had before been married to the Laird of Johnston . This David lived not long , was little above a year Earle of Angus , neither hear we of any of his actions , being so●…e what sickly and infirme of body . He died in Cockburnspeth in the year 1558. The ninth Earle of Angus , Archbald the third , and of his Uncle and Tutour James Douglas , Earle of Morton . TO David succeeded his son Archbald , a childe not above two years old . His Tutour and Guardian was James Douglas Earle of Morton his Uncle , and mother to David . Wherefore it is no wayes out of our way , or impertinent for our History , but rather necessary and most requisite , that we should first speak of him , being a branch and a brother of the house of Angus , and in effect , Earle of Angus , as well as Morton , though under the name of Tutour , or Guardian . Of his marriage , we have told before , how he was married to Douglas his wife , and daughter to the Earle of Morton . She bare to him divers children ( ten as is reported ) but none of them lived long , but died all young , ere they came to perfect age . She her self became distracted of her wits , and would not company with her husband , alledging he was not her husband , but that he was Master Archbald Douglas , who was brother to William Douglas of Whittinghame , that her husband was dead , and that Master Archbald Douglas had killed him . She was kept and entertained by him as became her place , and had her residence at Tantallon , but he being deprived of her Company , loosed the rains to others , and begat three naturall Children : 1. James ( whose mother was one High in Dal●…th ) who was made Captain of Black-Nesse Castle , Priour of Plusquardain ; and afterwards became Laird of Spot , by marrying the heir thereof , Anna Hume onely daughter to George Hume of Spot . 2. His second son was Archbald , whom he provided to the estate of Pittindreigh , which belonged to his father Sir ●…rge . 3. The third son was named Master George Douglas who was lame of his feet . Thus much his Children . Touching himself , during his childe-hood and youth he lived obseurely , and lurked for fear of the King ( James the fifth ) who had banished his Father , and Uncle , caused burn his Ant ( the Lady Glames ) and had professedly set himself against the whole name of Douglas utterly to ruine , and ext●… them . We do not hear that his elder brother David did thus hide himself , or if he did , it hath not been so observed of him : but of this James , it is certainly known that all the time of his fathers banishment and exile , he lurked under the borrowed name of James the Greeve , or James 〈◊〉 : First with his Cousin of Glenbarvie , afterward , for fear of being discovered with so near a Kinsman , with some Gentleman in the more Northern parts of Scotland . And as he 〈◊〉 the name , so did he also 〈◊〉 the office of a Greeve , and over-seer of the Lands and R●… , the Corne and Cattell of him with whom he lived . Neither was this ( howsoever mean ) imployment without great use , as nothing else in providence ever is , if it be rightly observed . It fitted him for those weighty matters , which afterward he was to meddle in , and schooled him for that charge in which he was to be employed ere long . For by this meane he became acquainted with the humours and disposition of the vulgar and inferiour sort of the common people , which knowledge is usefull and necessary to greatest Governours , that so they may know how to deale with them , and manage them according as they shall have occasion . He attained also hereby such skill in husbandrie , and such perfection in oeconomy and thriftinesse , that having acquired a habite of frugalitie , he not onely repaired the decayed and shattered Estates of these two Earledomes ( Angus and Morton ) but also helped to recover , and augment the revenues of the Crown and Kingdome , more than any other Regent . So long as his uncle , father , and brother were alive , we do not hear any thing of him , neither is there any mention at all made of him , save that in the year 1547. as hath been said , after the battell at Muscleburgh , he yeelded up to the English his Castle of Dalkeeth , together with himself their prisoner , and was by them carried into England , being then about seven and twenty years of age , or thereby : How long he stayed there , we cannot affirme , but it should seeme he remained there certaine years , for during that time , he learned the Estate of that Countrey , together with the English tongue , and tone , which he did ever thereafter much delight to use . At his return , after the death of his brother David , he being Tutour , and Guardian to his Nephew Archbald Earle of Angus , finding both his own , and his pupils Estate greatly burdened with debt , he lived privately , and retired for a while with a very small retinue of his domesticks onely , neither going to Court , nor intermedling with any publick affairs , to avoid the charges which otherwise he must have undergone . Wherfore his first care was to reduce these two Earledomes to their former integritie , by frugall parsimonie in the beginning , & not to lavish out the remainder by untimely magnificence , esteeming wisely that means & money are the sinews , not onely of Warre , but also of all civill and politick actions . Now besides the burden that was on the Lands , his Nephews title to the Earledome of Angus was questionable . For if the entailement were not very strong ( as it seems it was not ) Lady Margaret Douglas Countesse of Lennox had the better right , and was before him , she being sole heir of Line to Archbald that married the Queen , and so inheritrix of Angus . It is true she lived in England with her husband Lennox , who was banished , but who knew how soon he might be recalled and restored ? Wherefore to prevent that danger , and to strengthen his Nephew and himself against their attempts hee contracts him to Monsieur D'Osels daughter , that by his means and friendship ( he being a French man ) he might have the Queens favour and good-will to uphold him against their claims . But this contract took no effect , for she was married afterward to Monsieur D'Aubespine , and Angus to others , as wee shall hear in his life . After that he had thus settled his affairs at home , he began to come abroad and to have a hand in publick businesse . In the year 1559. he with Duke Hamilton do mediate a truce between the Queen-Mother , and the Lords , from the 24. of July , untill the 10. of January . Some Writers say that he assisted , and sided with the Queen ; but it should seem that they have mis-taken the matter : for not long after , he joyned openly with those that were against her , and the French Faction ; and is now reckoned among the Noblemen that sent to the Queen of England for her aide and assistance . These were the Duke of Chattelraut , James Stuart brother to the young Queen ( afterward Earle of Murray ) the Earle of Arran ( son to the Duke ) Argyle , Glencairne , Rothes , Sutherland , Monteth , Huntley , Caithnesse , Arrol , Marshal , Montrose , Cassils , Eglinton : The Lords Ruthven , Oglebye , Ereskin , Drummond , Hume , Rosse , Creighton , Levingston , Sommervale , the whole Nobilitie almost . Their cause and their company being so good , Morton could not but take part with them : The common liberty of their Countrey against the French , and Religion was no lesse dear to him than it was to them . In matter of Religion , he was so forward , that the Book of Discipline being compiled by some appointed for that purpose , though divers refused to approve of it , and to set to their hands , yet he did it with the first , & received it willingly . Wherefore these two ( then which there is nothing dearer unto men ) being in danger , he was forced in a manner to lend his helping hand for their defence , pro aris & focis , as the common saying is . And that the rather , for that he saw there was no hope of peace , seeing the truce which he had procured till the 10. of January was not kept . For before the middle of September Monsieur La Croque , being sent out of France to certifie the Queen of the new Forces which were in levying for her aide under the leading of Marquesse D'Elbeufe her brother , she began to fortifie Leith with those French which were already in the Countrey . Not long after arrived Octavian ( a French Colonel ) with 1000. men , and immediatly followed him at the heeles La Brosse , Knight of the Cockle , with 2000. more . The next spring came also the Count Marquesse of the house of Luxemberg , afterward Duke D'Estamps , with 1000. foot , and some horse . These all remained and abode in Leith , which they had fortified ; but the Queen to secure her own Person , retired to the Castle of Edinburgh , though the Captain thereof , the Lord Ereskin , were on the contrary part . The Nobilitie assembling themselves at Dalkeeth Castle , which belonged to Morton , hard by Edinburgh , from thence do write to her , desiring that she would dismisse the French , who were forrainers , and set open the Town of Leith , that the Natives might have free recourse and commerce thither . When they could not obtain these things at her hands , the English , to the number of seven or eight thousand being already entred into Scotland , they sate down before Leith the 4. of April 1560. About the eight of June , the Queen-Mother dying in the Castle of Edinburgh , a peace was concluded , the Town of Leith was surrendered , and the French men returned home into their own Countrey . In the beginning of Winter , Morton , together with Glen●… , and Sir William Metellan of Lithington , Secretary , were sent to thank the Queen of England for her ready succour . Morton had also a private message from the Earle of Arran , sonne to Duke Hamilton , to lay out marriage to her , but it is not likely that he would deliver it , being so unprobable , and such a proposition as he knew would not be very acceptable unto her . In this journey , Morton procured of his Cousin Lady Margaret Douglas Countesse of Lennox , hèr renunciation of all claime and title she had to the Earledome of Angus , in favours of his Nephew Archbald , but being done without the consent of her husband ( Matthew Earle of Lennox ) it was renewed again afterward . The sixteenth of August 1561. Queen Mary returned out of France to her native Countrey and Kingdome of Scotland , her husband Francis the second of France , being dead before in December . The Nobilitie was still divided concerning matter of Religion , and although now having their native Princesse at home , her husband being dead , there was no great cause to fear the power or empire of strangers , yet did they suspect that she would be too much ruled and counselled by her Uncles the Cardinal of Loraine , and the Guisians . The Heads of the parties were James the Queens brother , and George Earle of Huntley , the first a zealous Protestant , and wholly bent to maintaine the received Reformation , and the other no lesse forward to reduce the Romish Religion . The Queen inclined to favour Huntleyes cause , but the Reformed Religion was established by Acts of Parliament , which had been ratified by her own consent . Huntley , as he was a craftie and turbulent man , so was he also esteemed to be by the Queen , and her uncles , who ( like unto themselves ) made but a cloak of Religion to attain his own ambitious ends and designes . Wherefore howbeit they thought him a fit instrument to bring their own purposes to passe , and made use of him , yet did they not trust him . James Earle of Murray by the contrary was sincere , upright , trustie , and faithfull in all his actions , but he ran a course directly opposite to that which they intended . The Earle of Morton entred into strait bonds of friendship with Murray , which continued so long as they lived together . They had the same friends , and the same enemies , the same ends and aimes , the good of their Countrey , and maintaining of Religion . They ran the same hazard in all perils and dangers , never separating their counsels , nor failing to aid and assist one another . Wherefore Murray being sent by the Queen against the out-lawes upon the Borders , being assisted by Morton and his friends ( who lay near unto these places ) he came to Hawick upon the Fair-day of that Town , and having apprehended fiftie of the most notorious Theeves which came to the Market fearing nothing , he did so terrifie the rest , that those parts remained peaceable and quiet for a long time after . This successe as it increased his reputation , so did it also more and more kindle the hatred and envie of his enemies . And now besides those at home , the Guisards did also plot his ruine . Their quarrell was Religion , their instrument Huntley , their hope , his power and greatnesse , which was given out to them to be rather more than it was indeed . Wherefore they write to the Queen ( their Neece ) to feed Huntley with large promises , and to entertaine his sonne John with hope of marrying her , and fair countenances , that so they might be drawn to do what she lifted , to make away Murray and Morton , with their complices . The Popes Letters were to the same effect . She had sent to him for moneys to make Warre upon those that had spoken of the yoke of Popish obedience ; and his answer was , that she should not want his help ; so that she would do it seriously , that was ( according to the Cardinall of Lorains Glosse ) so that first of all she would cause make away those whose names were given her in writing . These Letters she shewed unto Murray and the rest ; either because she suspected they had notice of them some other way , or to lull them asleep in security , that being thus perswaded of her sincerity and good meaning , they might the more easily be over-reached and entrapped . So the project goeth on ; and all things being sufficiently fore-cast , and prepared for the accomplishing of their intentions , the Queen takes her Progresse into the North. Murray behooved to accompany her , and Morton would not forlake Murray . Who can imagine that their counsels should be disappointed ? The Forces which Murray and Morton had , were very small , and they were farre from their friends , which dwelt in the south parts of the Kingdome . Huntley commanded all in those quarters , being Lieutenant and Sheriff by inheritance : and compassed about with his friends and dependers : So the Game seemed sure . But what can prevaile a gainst that which God hath ordained ? He had decreed to frustrate them , and that by themselves . The Queens intentions and Huntleys did not jumpe in all things : they had their severall ends . They agreed in their desire of being rid of those who opposed the re-establishing of Poperie , but Huntley had a further drift . He propounded to himself as the reward of his service , no lesse than the Queens Person , to be married to his sonne John , and so in effect the Crown and Kingdome . But howsoever the Queen by her carriage toward the young man , was contented they should please themselves with that conceit ; yet neither did she ever go so farre as to promise any such thing , neither was it indeed her meaning : for she desired no lesse to be rid of Huntley , and hated him much more than she did Murray , having had many proofs of his perfidious dealing both toward her father , and her mother . Besides , she thought him too great and more powerfull than was fit for a Subject , or safe for the Prince . Wherefore before she began her journey into the North , she left his sonne John in prison behinde her . The pretext was , because he had hurt the Lord Oglebie in a Skirmish on the Street of Edinburgh ; but the true cause was , that he might be kept there as a pledge of his Fathers fidelitie , and that he being absent , Huntley might not constraine her to marry him , nor force her to any thing shee had not a minde to . But John made an escape out of prison , and followed the Queen , that his absence might not bee any hinderance to the marriage . So Huntley and his son gather their Forces together to meet the Queen , and to cut off Murray and Morton , as they would have her beleeve , but their main aim was withall to compel her to marry if she should refuse . This the Queen knew well enough ▪ so that when the Countesse of Huntley did tell her from the Earle her husband , that he was ready to put in execution what had been determined , the Queen told her , that there was one thing which Huntley must needes do first of all , before any thing else were taken in hand . His sonne John had broken prison , which was a manifest contempt of her authoritie , and such a thing as she could not in honour wink at , and therefore he behooved to returne and enter himself prisoner in the Castle of Stirlin , though it were but for some few dayes , to shew his obedience and subjection to the Lawes . Huntley would none of that , for he saw that so his son should be made to answer for whatsoever should be done contrary to the Queenes liking , so there was a demurre in the businesse . In the mean time the Queen goes from Aberdene to Bawhan , the house of one Master Lestie a Gentleman , some twelve miles from the Town . This was thought a fit place to execute their designe upon Murray and Morton : but the Gentleman , though he was Huntlies friend , would upon no termes give way to have done in his house . Then the Queen went toward Strabogie ( a house of Huntleyes , where he had resolved to make an end of all ) but by the way she told the Earle , as they rode together , that unlesse his son would returne to his prison , she could not in honour go to his house . But he not condescending thereunto , though she were within sight of Strabogie , she turned another way , and went to a house of the Earle of Athols , from thence to Innernesse , where thinking to have lodged in the Castle , Huntleys servants that had the keeping thereof , shut the gates against her . Then did she perceive what danger she was in , being constrained to lodge in an open town , which had neither wall , nor rampart , nor ditch , the Countrey about being wholly at Huntleyes devotion , whose son John was in the fields with a thousand armed men , besides the countrey people , who were ready to joyne with him . Wherefore now seeing that her own safetie consisted in her brothers , having none else on whom she could relie & trust into , she began to make much of him & Morton . These two caused set a watch , and placed a strong Guard at all the entries of the town , by which means Huntleyes spies and intelligencers were taken : The next morning the Clon-chattans , with the Frasers , and Monroes , and many High-landers , understanding that their Princesse was in danger , came to her aide , and forsook Huntley . With these she took the Castle of Innernesse , and caused execute Alexander Gordon the Captain thereof , which was a sufficient testimonie of her alienation from Huntley . All this did not quail the Earle , or divert him from his purpose . His ambition spurred him on before , necessitie doth now drive him forward . He had gone too far to thinke of a retreat . Therefore he followes the Queen from Innernesse to Aberdene , watching for some oportunitie to effect his intentions . He lay not far from the town with his Companies , and had his intelligencers within it , the Earle of Sutherland , Master Loslie of Bawhan , black Alexander ( or Arthur ) Forbes . The townsmen were most of them , either of his kinred , or allied to him ; and all of them so affected , as that they neither would , or durst oppose him . But letters being intercepted , which Sutherland and Bawhan wrote to him , their plots were discovered , and they defeated of their intendments once more . Then Murray and Morton thinking it both tedious and perillous , to be alwayes on their guard , and to be defenders only , resolved to take their turne of assailing , and pursuing , if so happily they might break his Forces , and disperse them . And howbeit they had not of their own , that they could trust to above an hundred horse , yet being armed with authoritie , and the Majestie of their Soveraigne , for the safetie of whose person they were to fight , having gathered together of Forbeses and Leslies , to the number of seven or eight hundred , and hoping that albeit they inclined to favour Huntley , yet their duty and allegiance to their Princesse would not suffer them to betray her , they took the fields . These made great show of forwardnesse in conveening , and gave out great words and brags , that they alone would do all . Huntley with his men had taken a plot of ground , inclosed about with marishes , so that he was in a manner encamped Murray and Morton , with the trustiest of their Friends , retired to a little hill , to behold the issue of this Battell , committing all to those who had taken it upon them : Onely they sent some horsmen a by-way , to close up the passages of the marish , that Huntley being overcome , might not escape that way . So those boasters begin to march toward the enemie , and by the way they pluckt off the heath ( or hather ) which growes in abundance in those parts , and stuck it in their Helmets , and Head-pieces , according as it had been agreed upon betwixt them and Huntley . Wherefore , he thinking now ( these being for him ) that there was no power to resist him , came out of his Strength against them , who presently turned their backs , and came fleeing with their swords drawn , and crying , Treason , treason , as if they had been betrayed , when indeed themselves were the traitours . They had thrown away their spears and long weapons , wherefore Murray and Morton , though they were astonished at the first sight of these hather-topped traitours , who came running toward them , with Huntley at their heels , yet they took courage , and resolved to stand to it . For as they were about to save themselves by flight , and were calling for their horses , William Douglas of Glenbarvie , ( who was afterward Earle of Angus ) requested them to stay ( as is reported ) saying , No horses , my Lords , we are strong enough for Huntley , and these men , though they flee , yet will they not fight against us . Wherefore let us present our pikes and spears to keep them out , that they come not in amongst us , to break our ranks , and the rest will prove easie . This advice was liked , and followed , so that Huntley expecting nothing lesse , than to finde resistance , and being destitute of long weapons , was forced ( some of his men being slain ) to give ground , and at last to flee as fast as before he had followed the counterfeit fleers . Then the Hather-tops perceiving that Huntley fled , turned upon him , and to make amends , slew most of them that were slain that day , which were some hundred and twentie , and an hundred taken prisoners , amongst whom was Huntley himself , and his sonnes John , and Adam . The Earle being an aged and corpulent pur●…ie man , was stifled with his armour , and for want of breath in the taking . Some say , that he received a stroke on the head with a pistoll , but it seemes to be false : for it is reported , that when Huntley saw his men routed , he asked of those that were by him ; what the name of the ground was upon which they fought , and having learned that it was commonly called Corraighie , he repeated the name thrice , Corraighie , Corraighie , Corraighie , then God be mercifull to me . The name of the place put him in minde of a response or oracle ( if we may so call it ) which was given by a Witch in the Highland , to whom he had sent to enquire of his death , and she had told , that he should die at Corraighie . But whether the messenger , or he himself mis-took the word , he understood it of Creigh , a place which was in his way to Aberdene , and which ( riding thither ) he alwayes did shunne , by reason of this Sooth-sayers speech ; or if at any time he did adventure to go by it , he was sure to be well accompanied , and to have the fields cleared and curried before . But this event discovered his mistaking . It was also told him by some of the same profession , that the same day , on which he was taken , he should be in Aberdene , maugre those that would not so , neither should one drop of his bloud be spilt . This seemed to promise him a successefull journey ; but the ambiguitie thereof was cleared by his death : for he was indeed that night in Aberdene , being carried thither upon a paire of creels , or panniers , and that against the will of all his friends , who would not have had him brought thither in such a guise . Neither did he lose any bloud , but was choak'd for want of breath . Such are commonly the answers of such spirits , ambiguous , and of no use to the receivers ; yet mens curiositie is so prevalent , that posterity wil take no warning of former examples . Murray being glad of this so-unlooked-for-victory , sent to the Ministers of Aberdene , to be ready against his coming , to go to the Churches , and give God thanks for that dayes successe : which they did very solemnely , and ( no question ) heartily , as men are wont to do while the memory of a great delivery is yet fresh in their mindes . The next day John Gordon ( the Earles son ) was execute , and his brother Adam was pardoned in regard of his youth . George the eldest brother fled to his father-in-law Duke Hamilton , and afterward being arraigned & condemned of high treason , he was sent prisoner to the Castle of Dumbar : Who doth not see through this whole journey , but especially in this catastrophe , an over-ruling power and providence doth either willingly shut his eyes , or else hath his understanding blinded by partiality or prejudice . Five severall times ( at Bawhan , at Straboggie , at Inner-Nesse , at Aberdene , and last of all , at Corraighie ) did Huntley attempt to cut off these men , who were many degrees weaker ; and five times is hee disappointed . And that neither by their wisedome or strength , but by him who confounds the wisedome of the wise , and who delivers without the help of the arme of flesh . Neither were they delivered onely , but their enemies were also taken in the trap , and fell into the pit which they had digged for them . Let men observe it , and let them learne not to confide in their own ( never so seeming wisely grounded ) projects , lest they be thus disappointed as Huntley was . This fell out in the year 1562. After this they returned with the Queen to Edinburgh , where we will leave them in rest , and so in silence a year or two . In the year 1564. Matthew Stuart Earle of Lennox returned into Scotland after 22. years exile , and was restored to his estate in a Parliament . Not long after , his sonne Henry Lord Darnely , having obtained leave of the Queen of England for three moneths , came to do his duty to the Queen as his Princesse and Kinswoman . Hee being a proper and handsome young man , and her Cousin Germane by his mother , Lady Margaret Douglas , the Queen began to think him a fit husband for her , and ere long did propound the matter to the Nobilitie , craving their consent and approbation thereto . They were divided in their opinions . Hamilton and Murray were against the match , fearing alteration in Religion , he being a Romane Catholique , as the Queen also was . Besides , they thought it not fit to conclude any thing without the Queen of Englands consent . Morton was for it , and thought it great reason that shee should have her libertie in her choyce of a husband . He liked also the party , being his near Kinsman , the Lady Margaret Douglas and he being brothers children . Wherefore having endeavoured to draw those that stood against it to be of his opinion , when he could not prevaile , he professed openly he would do what lay in him to set it forward ; and speaking to the Duke and Murray , It will be long ( sayes he ) ere you two agree on a husband for her , if she marry not till you do , I fear me she marry not these seven years ; and so he left them . The rest bound themselves to withstand it . Her Uncles of Guise did also oppose it , intending to bestow her on some forraine Prince , so to strengthen themselves by some great alliance . The Queen of England did not so much dislike it , as she desired to have some hand and stroke in it . Notwithstanding all this opposition the marriage was consummate the 27. of July 1565. about some six moneths after he came into Scotland . Whatsoever the motives were that induced the parties thus to hasten it , so it pleased God in his wisedome and providence , to dispose of things that by joyning of these two , this happy conjunction of the two Kingdomes which we now see and enjoy , should spring from them without all controversie or question . The eldest daughter of King Henry the seventh of England , Margaret , had but two children ; James the fifth by King James the fourth , and Margaret Douglas ( born at Harbottle ) by Archbald Earle of Angus her second husband . James the fifth left behinde him but one childe , Mary , sole heire to the Crowne of Scotland . Lady Margaret Douglas , being brought up with her Uncle Henry the eight , was married to Matthew Stuart Earle of Lennox , who being banished , and living in England , had by her Henr●… , Lord Darnely , and Charles , father to Arabella . So that by this marriage of Queen Mary to Henry Lord Darnely , the whole right that was in Queen Margaret to the Crowne of England ( failing the heires of King Henry the eight ) was combined and united in the persons of these two , and their off spring . What eye is so blinde as not to see evidently the hand of the Almighty in this match ? In taking away her former husband ( the King of France ) in bringing her back again into Scotland ; in sending Lennox into England , there to marrie Lady Margaret Douglas , in bringing him and his sonne ( Henry ) home again after 22. years absence , and in moving Queen Mary to set her affection on him . I make no question but this consideration ( of strengthening the title to England ) hath been amongst the motives that drew on this match , though we finde none , or very slender mention thereof in our writers . The next day after the marriage , they were proclaimed with sound of Trumpet at the Market-Crosse of Edinburgh by a Herauld , Henry and Mary , King and Queen of Scotland . This was ill taken both of the Nobility and Commons . A King made by Proclamation ! The voice of a Herauld to be in stead of a Parliament ! King Francis , her former husband had not done so ; he had sought a matrimoniall Crowne from the three estates , and hardly obtained it , after he had been refused at first , yet not without consent of a Parliament . But by this it appeared they made no account of the estates , nor bare no respect unto the customes of the Kingdome . Every man thought it a great neglect and derogation to their priviledges , but the male-contented called it , a tyrannicall usurpation . Thus many of the Nobility being discontented withdrew themselves , and the want of their presence and countenance in guiding of affaires , did alienate the people . The principall male-contents were Hamilton , Murray , Argyle , Rothuse , Glencairne . Against these the King goeth to Glasgow with 4000. men . They lay at Pasley ; and though they were together , yet they were not all of one minde . The Hamiltons would not hear of any peace , alledging there could be no true and firme reconciliation with Princes once offended . The rest were not of their opinion : they said that matters had been hitherto carried without bloud ; neither were their differences such , but that they might be composed without stroke of sword ; especially in regard that there were some about their Princes , that would both mediate their peace , and endeavour to have it faithfully kept , The constant practice of their Predecessours , and the rule they had ever followed had been this ; To passe by , and not to take notice of the secret and hidden faults of their Princes , and to salve those things which were doubtfull by a favourable and charitable construction ; yea even to tolerate and beare with their open faults and errours , as far as might be , without the ruine of the common wealth ; of which nature they esteemed these slips in government to be proceeding from their youth , and want of experience , which might be redressed by calme and fair means . Duke Hamilton himself did like of their moderation , but the rest of the Hamiltons refused to assist them upon these terms ; wherefore they departed all of them , save the Duke , with some sixteen that attended his Person . By this departure they were so weakened , that not daring to abide the Kings coming , they went first to Hamilton , and the day following toward Edinburgh , but being shot at from the Castle , they took their way through Bigger to Dumfreis , to the Lord Harris , who had desired them to do so , and had made them many faire promises . But he failing them , they dismissed their Troupes , and fled into England . All this way the King with his Companies dogged them at the heeles , whereupon it was called , the Runne-away Rode ( or runne-about ) and , the wilde-goose chase . The King returned to Edinburgh in the latter end of October . All this while the Earle of Morton took part with the King and Queen , but he was suspected to favour the other side , which he did indeed so farre , as to wish that the matter might be so taken up , that none of their lives were endangered . Otherwise he was in a good place , and Chancellour for the time . But these male-contented Lords being thus removed , his house of Tantallon was seized , that it might not be a receipt and place of refuge for the Rebels , if they should happen to take it : But the true cause was , Rizio ( commonly known by the name Signior David ) had put the King and Queen in some jealousie of Morton ; the occasion whereof was this , This Italian ( or Pied-montoise ) was of a Musician , risen to such favour , that he was become Cabin-Secretary to the Queen ; and Sir William Metellan ( Secretary of estate ) finding himself prejudiced by him , who had encroached upon his office , as also out of the love he bare to Murray ( to whom Rizio was a professed enemy ) bethought himself how to be rid of him . Wherefore he appointed a meeting with Morton , and the Lord Harris , in which he used all the perswasions he could to induce them to cut off that base stranger , who took upon him to disturb the Countrey , did abuse the Queens favour , and set all in a combustion , to the dishonour of the Prince and Nobilitie ; telling them , that it belonged to them , and such as they were , to have a care that such disorders were not suffered unpunished . And the more to incite them thereto , he alledged the examples of former times , omitting nothing which he thought might move them to undertake it . But Morton ( as the Proverb is ) was as wise as he was w●…ely : He told him flatly , he would take no such violent course , he would do what he could by fair meanes for Murrays peace and restitution : but as for that way , it would o●…d the Queen highly , and therefore he would not meddle with it . Metellan seeing that he could not draw him to it by perswasion , casts about how to drive him to it by necessity . He betakes himself to Rizio , m●…es shew as if he were very desirous of his friendship , and proffers him his 〈◊〉 so farre as he was able . After he had so insinuated with him , that he began to have some trust with him , he told him that the place he had ( to be the Queens Closet-Secretarie ) was neither gainefull , nor usuall in this Countrey , and that he might easily come by a better : The Lord Chancellours office ( sayes he ) is the most honourable , which is in Mortons hands , a man no wayes fit for the place , as being unlettered and unskilfull . Do but deal with the Queen to estrange her countenance from him , as one th●… savours Murray a Rebell , and with the King to insist in his right to the Earledome of Angus , Morton will be glad to sue to you for your favour , and to obtain your friendship ; will be content to demit his place of Chancellour in your behalf : Onely ; in regard that the place ( being the chief office in the Kingdome ) must be possessed by a Scottish Nobleman , you must first be made a free Denizan , and naturalized , and have the title of an Earle , which the Queen may conferre upon you of her self . This Metellan thought would incense Morton against Rizio , and force him to do him a mischief . Rizio began to follow this advice , in so much that the Castle of Tantallon was summoned , and delivered into the Kings hands . Likewise the King entred heir to his Grandfather Archbald Earle of Angus . The Queen also intending to create Rizio an Earle , would have bought Melvin Castle with the Lands belonging thereto for the first step of his preferment , but the owner would by no meanes part with them . And it is very probable , that he would have prosecuted the rest of the Plot , if he had not been interrupted , and dispatched before he could bring it to passe : for his credit increased so farre with the Queen ; that like too big a Saile for a small Barke , he was not able to bear his good fortune , but being puft up therewith beyond measure , he forgot his duty to the King , and carried himself so insolently toward him , that the King resolved to rid himself of him upon any terms . So he imparts his minde to his friends , that Rizio must needs be made away . Those whom he first acquainted with his purpose , were George Douglas ( commonly called the Postulate ) a naturall brother of his mothers , an understanding and active man ; the Lord Ruthven who had married a naturall sister of his mothers , and the Lord Lindsay , who was his Cousin German , and had to wife a sister of the Earle of Murrayes ; and his own father the Earle of Lennox . These had concluded to lay hold on him as he came from the Tennesse-Court , where he used much , but he having gotten some inkling hereof , kept a Guard about him of some fifty Halbards , which constrained them to think of a new course . And because their power was neither sufficient to effect it , nor to bear it out when it were done , they thought good to joyne the Earle of Morton . He being somewhat alienated , and discontented with the Kings insisting in his claime to the Earledome of Angus , they sent to him Andrew Ker of Fadunside , and Sir John Ballindine Justice-Clerk to deal with him , who prevailed so farre , that he was content to come to Lennox Chamber where the King was . There they came soon to an agreement , the King and his father for themselves , and undertaking also for Lady Margaret Douglas ( whose consent they promised to obtaine , and that she should renue and ratifie what had been done by her self before ) renounced all title , right , interest , or claim they had or could make to the Earledome of Angus in favours of Archb●…ld sonne to David , sometime Earle thereof . Having obtained this , he consented to assist the K. with all his power on these conditions . 1. That nothing should be altered in the received Religion , but that it should be established as fully , and in as ample manner , as it was before the Queen came home out of France . 2. That the banished Lords should be brought home and restored . 3. That the King would take the fact upon himself , and warrant them from whatsoever danger might follow thereon by the Queens displeasure . These Articles were given him in writing to subscribe , lest afterward out of his facilitie or levitie he should either deny it , or alter his minde , which he did very willingly , and even eagerly . Prosently hereupon Lennox went into England to acquaint the banished Lords herewith , and to bring them near to the Borders of Scotland , that when Rizio were slaine , they might be ready to lay hold of the occasion for their restitution . And now the day of the Parliament drew near , in which they were to be forfeited ; and Rizio did bestirre himselfe notably to bring it to passe . He went about to all those that had vote in Parliament , to trie their mindes , and to terrifie them , by telling it was the Queens pleasure to have it so , and that whosoever voted to the contrary should incurre her high displeasure , and no waies do any good to the Noblemen . This made them hasten his death , to prevent the sentence which the Parliament might have given out against the Lords by Rizio his practises . Wherefore that they might take him , when his Guard was from him , and that it might the more clearly be seen , that the King was the chief author of it , they determined to take him along with them , who should bring him out of the Queens Chamber , from when●… he should be carried to the City and have his triall by assise , and so legally and formally ( for they had matter enough against him ) condemned and executed at the Market-Crosse of Edinburgh . So Morton assembled his friends , and going to the Abbey of Halyroodhouse ( the 8. of March 1566 ) in the evening , he seized the Keyes of the Palace , and leaving a sufficient number in the Inner-Court below , to keep in the Noblemen that were lodged in the Palace , and were not on the Plot , he himselfe went up to the presence , and there walked up and down . The King went directly to the Queens Chamber by the privie staires , and with him the Lord Ruthven , and some five more all armed . The Queen was at supper , and there was with her , her naturall sister the Countesse of Argyle , and Rizio with some few other servants . She was at first somewhat amazed to seethem come into her Bed-Chamber being armed ; but because the Lord Ruthven had been sick of a burning fever , she thought he had been distracted with the vehemencie of the fit , so she asked what the matter was . Ruthven made no answer , but laid hold on Rizio , and told him it did not become him to be in that place . He ranne to the Queen , and clasped his hands about her to save himself , but the King taking her softly in his arms , told her they had determined to punish that villaine ; who had abused both them and the Countrey ; and withall unclasping Rizio his hands , he delivered him to Ruthven , who carried him from thence into the Privie-Chamber , and then to the Presence . In the mean time the Earle Bothwell and Huntley ( who were opposite to this course ) being lodged in the Palace , and hearing how things went on the Queens side , would have made resistance ▪ by the help of the under-officers of Court , Butlers , Cooks , Skuls and suchlike , with Spits and Staves , but they were quickly rambarred , and beaten back by those that had been left of purpose in the Court by Morton . So Huntley and Bothwell fled out at backwindowes . Athole was perswaded to keep his Chamber by Secretary Metellan , who was on the Plot , and supped that night with Athole , partly to keep him from stirring , lest he might have offered or suffered violence ; partly and chiefly that he himself might not be suspected to have a finger in the Pie , having Athole to be a witnesse of his behaviour therein . He had given order to his followers , that they should remaine quie●… till it came to be acted ; and that then they should arme themselves , and runne hastily , as it were to an unknown and sudden fray and tumult , but if there were need , to assist Morton and those that guarded the Court. The noise of the scuffling which Huntly and Bothwel made below in the Court , coming to the eares of those that were above in the presence , and had Rizio in their hands ; they not knowing what it might import , but fearing that he might be rescued from them , they fell upon him , and stabbed him with their daggers , sore against the will , and besides the intention of Morton , and the rest of the Noblemen , who thought to have caused execute him upon the scaffold , so to have gratified the common people , to whom it would have been a most acceptable and pleasant sight . It is constantly reported that he was advised by one 〈◊〉 ( a French Priest , who was thought to have some skill in the black Art ) that now he had gotten good store of means and riches , it was best for him to return home to his native Countrey ; where he needed not to feare the Nobilitie of Scotland ; whose hatred he could not be able to stand out against long ; but he contemned his counsell , saying , The Scots were greater threatners , than doers . They say also , that one Signior Francese admonished him to carry himself more soberly , and not to irritate the Nobilitie ; for as he understood they bare him no great good will , and would not faile to do him some mischief one time or another ; but he answeredhim in Italians , Parole , parole , all was but words , he feared them not , they were no body , they were but like Ducks , which if some of them be stricken down , the rest will lie in . To whom the other replied , Take heed you finde them not rather like Geese , of which if you stirre but one , all the rest will flie upon you , and so plume you , that they will leave you neither Feather , nor Down . So when he was desired by some Diviner , or Sooth-sayer , to beware of the Bastard , he said , That Bastard should not have power to do much hurt in Scotland , so long as he lived ; understanding it to be spoken of Murray , who was Bastard-brother to the Queen . But the Bastard that slew him , was George Douglas ( as is the most received opinion ) who stabbed him with the Kings dagger ; having none of his own then about him . This brought Morton into great trouble ; for the next day being the day of the Parliament , the banished Lords compeered in the Parliament-House , as they had been summoned , where finding no accuser ; now that Rizio was gone , the Parliament was deserted , and the Queen reconciled unto them , intending to use their help against the slayers of Rizio . Wherefore she went first to Seton , then to Dumbar , where she assembled a sufficient number of men , so that Morton , Ruthven , and their partners , were fain to flee into England , but some of them lurked in the High-lands . Their Goods were confiscated , their places and Offices disposed of to others . Their friends , who were no wayes accessarie to that fact , were committed to prison . Sir David Hume of Wedderburne , onely because he was Mortons kinsman , was sent first to Dumbar , then to the Ken-moore in Galloway . It is true , it was his brother-in-laws house , and Loghen-varre was indeed a loving brother , yet was it farre from home , neither was he set free without bail to re-enter when he should be required . Thus were the dice changed . Morton was at Court , when Murray and his complices were banished : now they are in Court , when he and his associats are dis-courted , and forced to ●…e . He had favoured them , but had not joyned with them : they favour him , but think it not good to take part with him . Yet had they more reason to do it , for his fact had wrought out their Libertie , theirs had made him to be suspected . But whether they would not , or could not do him any good , or that they thought the time was not fit , and a better time was to be expected , the King ( who was the chief authour and first mover of it ) having forsaken him , he was constrained to with-draw himself into England , as we have said . There he did not remain long in ease and quiet , for about the beginning of May , the Queen sent Master John Thornton ( Chanter of Murray ) desiring that he and the rest , might not be suffered to harbour within the Queen of Englands Dominions . She sent the same Thornton also to France with the like message , but it needed not , for they never meant to go thither . Queen Elizabeth sent one of her servants ( William Killigrew ) and by him promised to cause them voide her Realme before Mid-summer . It was so done in shew , they were warned to depart , and did depart from Newcastle , abstained from conversing in publick , but they lurked privately in a place not far from Anwick . No search was made for them , and the Messenger had whispered them in the ear , when he commanded them to be gone , that England was broad and wide . Before they came from Newcastle , he lost his good friend the Lord Ruthven , whom God called to his rest in mercy . Thus was he banished from Scotland , England , France , and Ireland , yet did he lurk still in England . But he lurked not long ; for matters were in brewing at home , which gave occasion to his returne . The Earle Both well was now become the Queens favourite , all men followed him , all preferment came by him . His thoughts were high , his ambition no lesse than to injoy the Queen , if she were free from a husband . To bring this designe to passe , she was content to forget all private quarrels with Morton , and he presumed that Morton being abandoned of the King , and ingaged to him for his return and restitution , as also being led with hope of his further goodwill , to gratifie him in any thing that might be procured from the Queen , would be induced either to become his friend , or at least not to be his enemy , nor to raise , or to side with any Faction against him ; which he esteemed a great point , & of much importance . There was amongst Bothwels followers , one M. Arch. Douglas , a brother of the house of Whittingame , by his mediation all former quarrels were taken away on both sides , & Mortons peace procured from the Q. on condition he should not come within a mile of the Court. This restraint he reckoned to be rather beneficiall , than hurtfull to him ; seeing that by that mean , he should be the farther off from whatsoever should happen amisse . Wherefore being returned before the Q. was brought to bed of her son James the 6. ( which was the 19. of June 1566 ) he becomes a spectatour , beholding a farre off what would be the issue of things . To sit on the shoare , & to behold others at sea tossed with winde and wave , though it cannot but stif our pity and commiseration in common humanity , yet when we reflect upon our selves , and consider how happy we are that are on firme land , free from these fears and dangers , the joy and contentment we have in our own safety , doth swallow up the former consideration of anothers danger . So it was with Morton , he saw what a fearful tragedie was like to be acted at court , but not being able to hinder it , he chose to keep at home . He was the Kings kinsman , yet could he do him no good , having had experience of his weaknes and inconstancy in his forsaking of him , after the killing of Rizio . He was beholding to Bothwell for his restoring , and therefore bound not to oppose him , in honesty and dutie he could not aid nor assist him in such courses . Wherefore he useth the benefite of his confining , and becomes a looker on . To declare the estate of those times , and to dilate it , let them do it that can delight to blaze the weaknesse of those , whom they ought to love and honour , and who have that task imposed upon them , by whatsoever necessitie . For my self , neither am I any way necessitated thereunto , neither could my soul ever delight in the reproach of any . I wish I could cover the sins of the world , they should never be uncovered , or known , but where necessity did require it , that so they might be taken away by order . My endeavour should rather be with the blessed sons of Noah , to overspread , with the mantle of silence and oblivion , the nakednesse of those to whom we owe even a filial dutie & pietie . Concerning that Princesse , my heart inclineth more to pitie ; I see good qualities in her , and love them : I see errours , and pity them : I see gentlenesse , courtesie , humilitie , beautie , wisedome , liberalitie ; who can but affect these ? If they be carried to inconvenience , who can but lament it ? In that sex , in that place , in that education , in that company : a woman , a Princesse , accustomed to pleasure , to have their will , by Religion , by sight , by example , by instigation , by soothing , and approbation . Happie , yea thrice happy are they who are guided through these rocks without touch , nay , without shipwrack . I do advert more than I finde set down by Writers , while I search into all the causes which might have drawn on these lamentable events . Besides the secret loathings in the estate of marriage ( which who knows but the actors ? ) bringing forth dislike , then quarrels on both sides , then crossing & thwarting , then hatred , then desire to be freed ; besides all this , impotencie , and desire of revenge , being seconded with shew of reason , and backed with a colour of law and justice ; what wil it not do ? Her husband had killed a servant of hers , whom he had dragged violently out of her bed-chamber . Behold him therefore ( as Lawyers , or such as pretended skill in law would alledge ) guiltie of death in their judgment . He was not crowned , but proclaimed King only by her sole authority , never acknowledged by a Parliament , so was he but a private man , & a subject to her his Soveraigne , as are the wives and children of Kings . Wherefore his Fact ( in slaying Rizio ) was flat treason , for which he might have bin arraigned , and suffered according to law . But bearing the name of a King , & having many friends and kinred , a legall proceeding could hardly be attempted without great difficulty , and might have caused an insurrection , and much bloud-shed with uncertain event . Wheresore in wisedome the most convenient way was to do it privatly and secretly ; secret justice , is justice notwithstanding ; formalities are but for the common course of things . This was an extraordinary case . Justice is absolutly necessary , the form ( whether this , or that way ) is indifferent , it may be altered , or omitted ; the Princes power may dispense with forms in case of necessitie or conveniencie , so the substance be observed . Well , I conceive that a Prince upon such suggestions , upon dislike , in anger and indignation , might be drawn by his counsellours , neither can I but conceive , that these colours have been here represented to perswade , or to sooth . To be short , that fact so lamentable , and ( which I can never remember without lamenting ) every way in her own , and her husbands person , done by the Earle Bothwell , he murdering her husband , she marrying him , the matter seemed extreame strange and odious in the eyes of many . It is true , Bothwell was cleared , or rather not filed by an Assise ; but the Nobilitie judging him not to be sufficiently cleansed , but rather being fully perswaded that he was the authour of the murder , thought themselves bound in duty to bring him to a further triall And howsoever he had married the Queen , yet did they not take themselves to be so farre bound in obedience to her , as in that regard to desist from all further inquiring into that Fact. Nay , it did rather move their indignation to see him who had committed so vile and execrable a murder , not onely to escape Scot-free , but to reap so large and rich a reward , as was the Queens own person . Besides , they thought the consequent might prove dangerous , if he who had massacred the father , and married the mother , should also have the son ( the onely barre and lett of his ambition , to establish the Crown to himself and his posteritie ) in his power and custodie . These were given out as the causes of their taking arms , which were very plausible to the vulgar , especially the safetie of the young Prince James . There is no question , they had also their own particular respects , which are seldome wanting , and do commonly concurre with the publick cause : wherefore there joyned together the Earles of Argyle , Glencairne , and Marre , the Lords Lindsay and Boyde . These bound themselves to pursue Bothwel , and to assist one another against whosoever would oppose them , especially to keep the young Prince from coming into Bothwels power . But Argyle repenting him , went the next morning to the Queen , and revealed all the matter , and the Lord Boyde also was at last perswaded with many fair promises , to forsake them , and joyn with Bothwell . The rest notwithstanding remained firme , with whom Morton took part . He thought he could do no lesse , being so near a kinsman to the late King , and so to the young Prince . It is true , he had been beholding to Bothwell , but no benefit could binde him to assist him in this case : for by so doing , he should have given some colourable ground to that report , which had so spred it self , that it was beleeved a while about the Court of England , that Murray and he were authours of the Kings murder . To have remained neutrall , would have been but ill taken on both sides . The Lord Hume , Cesford , and Balcleugh , though they had not subscribed with the other Lords , yet did they hate Bothwell , and were suspected to incline to the contrary Faction . The year preceding , Bothwel had made an in-rode upon Liddisdale , for the suppressing of theeves , and apprehending of out-lawed Borderers with bad successe , for he was wounded , and hardly escaped with his life . This year he resolves to repair his honour , and by some notable exploit , to gain the good-will of the people , which that he might the more easily do , the chief men of the name of Scot , and Ker , who were likely to ●…inder him , were commanded to enter into prison in the Castle of Edinburgh , and there to remain till his returne . But they fearing some worse meaning , went home to their houses . The Lord Hume also being summoned to enter , would not obey . Notwithstanding Bothwell goeth on with his intended journey , and so the Queen and he come to Borthwick Castle , there to make all things ready for this expedition . The adverse party thought this place was not unfit to surprize him in it : and therefore they appointed their Rendezvous at Liberton , whither Morton onely came . The Earle of Athole ( whither through his naturall slownesse or fearfulnesse ) by his not keeping that appointment , caused the rest to break also , and to stay still at Stirlin . The Lord Hume in hope to have been seconded , went directly to Borthwick , and lay about the Castle , but seeing no appearance of their coming , he kept such negligent watch , that the Queen and Bothwell escaped , and went back to the Castle of Dumbar . The Lords thus frustrated , went to Edinburgh to practise the Citizens there , and to draw them to their side , which they easily effected . The Castle was kept by Sir James Belfoure ( whom Bothwell had made Captain thereof , and who had been his intimate friend , and pr●…vie to all his secrets : But upon some distaste or distrust , Bothwell had sought to put him out of the place ; which he finding , had made himself full Master thereof : and he was now entred in termes of agreement , and capitulation with the Lords to put it into their hands , but had not yet concluded and transacted with them . There were in the City at this time of the other party , John Hamilton Bishop of S. Andrews , the Earle of Huntley , and the Bishop of Rosse John Lesly . These when they heard that the Lords were come into the Citie , came forth into the Street , hoping the Citizens would assist them and help them to expell the Lords ; but when they saw that few or none did resort to them , they fled to the Castle , where they were received ( the Captain thereof not having as yet agreed with the Lords ) and some few dayes after were let out at a posterne , and so escaped . In the mean time the Queen had sent abroad to assemble her forces . There came to her out of Lowthian , the Lords Seton , Yester , and Borthwick , small Barons , Waughton , Basse , and Ormeston . Out of the Merse , Sir David Hume of Wedderburne , with his Uncle Blackader , notwithstanding their Chief the Lord Hume , and his Cousin German Morton , were on the other side . Besides these , they had 200. hired Souldiers under the leading of Captain Anstrudder , mounting in all to 2000. and 500. with these they set forward from Dumbar , with intention to go to Leith , that so they might be nearer the enemy , and lose no opportunity of taking advantage of them . A wrong course ; and ill advised : Whereas if they had but stayed a space in the Castle of Dumbar , the Lords not having sufficient forces to assault them there , nor Ordnance , or any other necessary provision for a seige , had been constrained to disperse themselves , and retire home to their own houses . Which if they had done , they might easily have been overthrown being separated and scattered , before they could have joyned their forces again . But there is a directour of all things , who had not ordained that Bothwell should prosper in his wayes ; which fell out also by his own temeritie , and the counsel of Master Edmond Hay ( his Lawyer ) who is said to have advised him thus , alledging that the Lords neither would nor durst abide their coming , but would presently flee upon the first noise of their approach ; and that if they did but once shew themselves in the fields , the Commons would all come flocking to them . But it fell out clean contrary , for neither did the people concurre with them ( because they hated Bothwell ) and the Lords having once taken Arms , were enforced by necessity to fight for their own safety . Their number was about some 2000. most part Gentlemen of good quality and ranke ; of the which , the chief were Morton , Marre , 〈◊〉 , Glencairne , Montrose ; the Lords , Hume , Lindsay , Ruthven , Semple , and Sanwhere ; Small Barons , Cesford , Drumlenrigge , Tillebardine , Grange . They had no Artillerie , neither any Musketiers , save a few from Edinburgh . They caused to be drawn on their ensignes , the late King lying dead , and his young son the Prince James sitting on his knees , with his hands heaved up to Heaven with this Motto , Judge and revenge my cause , O LORD . While they were in Edinburgh , word was brought to them about midnight , that the Queen and Bothwell were come to Seton and Salt-Preston , within six miles of them . Whereupon they made haste , and having armed , went speedily toward Muscleburgh , lest the enemie should seize the Bridge and Foords of the River which was within two miles of Preston . So having passed it without disturbance a little after the Sun-rising , finding that the enemy did not stirre , they took their refreshment , and broke their fast at leasure . Not long after , those whom they had sent before to currie the fields , and to give notice what the enemie was about , having perceived a few horsemen without the village ; drove them back again , but not daring to follow them for fear of some ambuscade , could learne nothing else , save that the enemie was ready to march . Hereupon the Lords also began to set forward toward them , and being now without the Towne of Muscleburgh they perceived the enemy , ranged in order of battell all along Carburie hill , ready to encounter them . The hill was steep , and the ascent difficult on that side , wherefore they turned a little to the right hand , where they might with more ease and lesse disadvantage ascend , the hill being there much plainer ▪ and the ground more levell . This deceived the enemy , who seeing them turn aside , supposed they had fled to Dalketh , which belonged to Morton , and lay on that hand . But they being come where they would have been , set their men in order , having the Sun on their backs , and in the face of the enemie , which was no small advantage , for the day was exceeding hot , being the fifth of June 1567. besides , the Townes-men of Dalkeeth did furnish them sufficiently with drink , together with other villages that lay on that hand . But on Bothwels side it was not so , there was no such alacrity and readinesse in the people to supply them ; no foresight in themselves to provide , no chearfulnesse in the Army , but most of them wavering between their duty to the Queen , and their suspicion of Bothwels guiltinesse . Yet did they not offer to forsake her , neither would they have done it for any thing we hear of , if Bothwell durst have stood to it . But his self-accusing conscience , struck his minde with such terrour and dread , that knowing what he had deserved , he judged other mens mindes to be accordingly affected toward him ; and seeing head made against him beyond his expectation , he began to doubt of the fidelity of those that were come to take part with him . Especially he distrusted Sir David Hume of Wedderburne , in regard of his friendship and Kinred with the Lord Hume , and Earle of Morton . Wherefore he moved the Queen to ask him whether he would abide constantly by her , and performe his part faithfully . He answered freely , that he was come to serve her , as his Soveraigne out of duty , and in sincerity , which he would do to the utmost of his power , against whomsoever , without respect of whatsoever friendship or kindred with any . Blackader said the like , and added withall , speaking to Bothwell , I wish my Lord , you stay as well by it , as we shall . That which made them the more to fear Sir David was , because a servant of his , as he went to drink at a well not farre from the enemie , was taken , and brought to Morton , who hearing whose man he was , dismissed him , and bade him tell his Master from him ; That if he were the man he should be , he alone might put an end to that dayes work , which is like enough he might have done , if either he would have revolted to the Lords , or forsaken Bothwell , and gone home . The rest of the Nobles and Gentlemen being in like manner exhorted by the Queen to fight valiantly , promised that for their own parts they would do it faithfully , but they said , the hearts of the common Souldiers were averse from Bothwell ; and thought it more reasonable that he should adventure his own Person in his own quarrell for maintaining his innocency , than that either her Majestie , or so many of her good Subjects should adventure or endanger their lives for him . But if she were resolved to trie the hazard of a battell , it was her best to deferre it till the next day , that the Hamiltons , who were on their journey , might joyne with them . As they were about to joyne battell , the French Ambassadour ( La Croque ) would have mediated a Peace , and came to the Lords , promising to obtain their pardon at the Queens hands for what was past , and that none of them should ever be called in question for their taking Armes against her , so that they would now lay them down , and proceed no further : Morton made answer , that they had not taken Armes against the Queen , but against Bothwell , who had murthered their King , whom if her Majestie would be pleased to abandon , they would quickly make it appear , that they desired nothing more than to continue in all dutifull obedience and allegeance to her , as became Loyall Subjects ; but so long as Bothwell remained unpunished , they could not in duty and conscience be so forgetfull of their late King , as not to avenge his murther . La Croque not being able to perswade them , retired to Edinburgh . All hope of peace and agreement being cut off , Bothwell being jealous of his Souldiers , and either intending in good earnest to fight , or for a Bravado , sent a Trumpet to the Lords to declare his innocency , in confidence whereof , if any would accuse him , and stand to his allegation , he was ready to maintain his cause against whosoever would attach him , in Duel , and single Combate . There were two of the Lords faction that undertook to make it good against him , William Kirkadic of Grange , and James Murray brother to Tilliberdine ; but he rejected these as not being his equals , and Peeres , he being an Earle , and they but Gentlemen onely . Wherefore he challenged Morton by name . He accepted of the challenge , and appointed the Weapons two-handed Swords , and to fight on foot . But the Lord Lindsay stepping forth , besought Morton and the rest , that for all the service that ever his Predecessours , or himself had done , or could do unto the country , that they would do him that honour as to suffer him to undertake that Combate ; which he said did also duly belong unto him , in regard of his nearnesse in bloud to the defunct King. They condescended , and Bothwell having nothing to accept against him , they prepared on both sides . Morton gave Lindsay the Sword which had been Earle Archbalds ( called commonly Bell the Cat ) wherewith he cut asunder Spenses thigh , as is shewed in his life . With this ( which Lindsay wore ever after ▪ ) and a buckler , as the manner then was , he presents himself before the Army , to attend Bothwels coming . But the Queen would not suffer him to fight , and interposing her authority , commanded him to desist . Then she sent a He●…auld to the Lords , requiring them to send Grange to her , that she might conferre with him , and that in the mean time the Army should stand quiet . While the Queen did Parley with Grange , Bothwell ( as it had been fore-plotted ) conveyes himself secretly out of the Army , and fled to Dumbar . When the Queen had talked so long with Grange , as that Bothwell had time enough to escape , and be out of their reach , free from all danger of being overtaken , she went with him to the Lords ; and desiring them to suffer her Army to depart in safetie ( which they easily granted ) she dismissed them . Then she requested , that she might go to the Hamiltons , who were not farre off , at Corstorphing , to give them thanks for their good will , promising faithfully to return , whereupon she desired Morton to passe his word , and be suretie for her . A strange request for her to ask in such a case ; farre stranger for them to have granted , or for Morton to have undertaken that which lay not in his power to ▪ see performed . Bothwell had escaped to their great grief and discontentment ; the Queen onely remained , the pledge of peace , and foile of their enemies , who wanting her did want a head . Therefore her suite was denied , and she brought to Edinburgh . There a consultation was held , what were fittest to be done with her . Amongst great diversitie of opinions , Morton would by no means yeeld to have her life meddled withall , desiring onely that some such course might be taken , as that the professed Religion might not be prejudiced , and that they themselves might be secured from future danger . Yet there were some that pressed the matter very hard against him , alledging that there was no possibilitie , either to preserve Religion , or secure themselves , so long as she were alive . Promises were to no purpose , and of no value . They might be easily eluded , as proceeding from a just fear , and compulsion , as they would call it . And to imprison her were no better ▪ seeing there would not want a party ere long to set her free . And though there were no party , yet she her self might use means to escape , and others might help her ; yea , without all these , time and occasion would work her delivery . Nay some went so far with him , as to denounce GODS judgements against him , as a hinderer of the execution of justice , which he himself should feele upon his own person , because he would not give way to it in the person of another . For it is but justice ( said they ) else if it be unlawfull , so is this detaining of her unlawfull , and whatsoever we have done is unlawfull , and flat treason . All this notwithstanding , Morton would not consent unto it , but made answer , That howsoever they had gone thus farre being drawne to it by necessity , for the preservation of Religion , the good of their Countrey , their own honour and credit , and even led by nature to look to their own safetie , yet they ought not to meddle with the life of their Soveraign●… . To secure themselves , it was sufficient to have her kept in some place of suretie and strength , which he thought even too much , if he could see any other remedie . And so it was concluded , that shee should be sent to Logh-leven , there to be kept by William Douglas owner thereof , a very honest Gentleman , and who had sided with neither Partie . And although the same matter was agitate again , while she remained in Logh-leven ( the 25. of August , at a solemne meeting of the Estates , after Murray was come home , and had accepted the Regencie ) and many did incline to have her executed , ( some out of zeal to Religion , and love of Justice , as they deemed it ) some out of love to the Hamiltons , ( who by her death would be but one step from the Crown ) yet Morton stuck to his former opinion and resolution : Shee was no sooner committed , but some began to plot her deliverie ; supposing that undoubtedly she would get out at last by one mean or other , they strove to anticipate her favour , and make her beholding to them for that which could not faile to come to passe . Neither did they fear the consequent , if once she were set at libertie , for they made no question to make their partie good . The authoritie was hers , time would make the peoples heart to relent and fold to their naturall Princesse ; the Faction that was against her , was the weaker ; and diversitie of opinions would bring forth division amongst them . Of those that sought her favour , Sir William Metellane Secretarie was one . His dis-like and hatred of Bothwell , had made him joyne with the Lords : being now rid of him , he returned to his old byas again , and bent his course toward her . But not daring to do it openly , he wrote privately to her , and assured her of his good-will , and promised his best endeavour to serve her ; and that howsoever his power were none of the greatest , he shewed that he might prove steadable to her by the Apologue of the Lion , which being taken in a net , was delivered from thence by the help of a Mouse , that did shear the net , and cut it in pieces with her teeth . Morton did constantly prosecute the course begun , with great courage and wisedome , over-coming all difficulties before the Earle of Murrays returne ( who had gone to France in the beginning of these stirres ) which were neither small , nor few . His Associates found them moe than they had expected . They had promised themselves the approbation of all men , and that all would joyne with them , at least , the best affected . It fell out otherwise ; time diminished envie , change of their Princes estate begate pity , fear of the event kept aloof ; doubt of dutie restrained some , and desire of rest and securitie , others . So that no new Forces came to them ; but on the contrary , some of their own side forsook them , and went to the other ; new hopes not onely cooling , but even changing their affections . Wherefore they were much perplexed , and had it not been for Morton , they had quite deserted the cause . But he perswaded them to keep together at Edinburgh , and to write to the other Lords that were assembled at Hamilton , to desire them to come to Edinburgh , that so they might consult together what were fittest to bee done for the good and peace of the Kingdome . But they would neither receive Letter nor Message , saying , It was great presumption in them to have possessed themselves of the chief City , and to offer to send for them , and not to come to them , who were ( so they thought ) the stronger , and had the better cause . The others to give them satisfaction in that point , caused the Ministers of Edinburgh to write to them jointly , as also severally to their particular friends and acquaintance , both to excuse that which they took exception at , ( which they told they had done , not because they did challenge or claime any preeminence or prerogative to themselves beyond them , or for any other cause , save onely the conveniencie of the place for both parties to meet in ) and withall to exhort them , that in so perillous a time , setting aside all particular respects and quarrels , they would have a care of the common good of the Countrey . But these Letters prevailed no more than the former . Yet though they would not concurre with them , they did nothing against them ; whether because they were not able ( they being within the town of Edinburgh ) or , because they did not agree among themselves , or that they wanted a Commission , and a sufficient Warrant from the Queen , they dissolved , and returned every man to his own home . This their attempt to have kept some forme of meeting and Parliament in the Queens name , admonished the Lords to take away that which would beare greatest shew against them , the Queens authoritie . Wherefore they deale with her to resigne it to her sonne , which she was very loath to do ; yet at last shee consented to it , and having subscribed a formall renunciation and dimission : shee made also , and signed a Procuration , or Letters of Attourney , to cause crown her sonne at Stirlin , or where they pleased . She named likewise his Curators , Murray ( if he would accept of it at his returne ) failing him , these seven ; The Duke ( Hamilton ) Lennox ( the Childes grandfather ) Argyle , Morton , Glencairne , Marre , and Athole . It was presently put in execution , for within two dayes ( the 26. of July ) the Prince was crowned at Stirlin , being then thirteen moneths , and eight dayes old . Morton and the Lord Hume took the Oath for him , that he should observe the Laws , and maintain the Religion then professed . Master Knox made the Sermon , the Coronation was also performed by him , and two Super-intendents . Having gained this point , they had now this advantage of the others , that not only were their enemies deprived of the countenance and colour of authoritie , but they themselves were armed therewith . And thus they remained till Murrays returne , who at first would not accept of the Place , which by the Queens direction was reserved for him , but being pressed by the rest , that they might have an established and certain Head , he yeelded to their requests , and took the Place and charge of Regent uponhim . From this time forward , Murray being Regent , according as did belong unto his place , hee was chief Commander in every thing ; yet was hee assisted by Mortons faithfull counsell and advice , who did also many times supply the publick wants with his private meanes , in times of greatest necessitie . Especially when Bothwell was to be pursued , who having put forth to sea , and being turned Pirate , lay about Orknay , robbing all that came in his way , without fear of being followed , knowing wel that there was no money in the treasurie ( he himself having emptied it ) to rig out any shipping against him . Then did Morton on his own charges provide Vessells , hire Mariners and Souldiours to go out after him . This was the fruit of his good husbandrie , and the good use he made of his parsimonie and menagerie . Grange was sent Admirall , who came so suddenly upon him , that he had well-nigh taken him before he was aware , yet he escaped in a light Pinnace over a craig in the sea , with such hazard , that it is thought to have grazed upon it . The Lion which followed after , being a Ship of greater bulk and burden , and which drew more water , stuck fast upon it , so that the men were constrained to betake themselves to their Cock-boat . The Bishop of Orknay ( Bothwell to his name , who was father to the Lord Haly-rude-house ) was last in the Ship , and seeing the Boat loosing , called to them to stay for him ; but they being already sufficienrly laden , would not hear him . He seeing no other remedy , leapt into the Boat , having on him a Corselet of proof , which was thought a strange leap , especially not to have over-turned the Boat. Thus the men were all saved , and the Earle Bothwell sailed to Denmark . There being examined what he was , and whence he came : when he did not answer clearly and distinctly , he was cast into prison , and having lien there ten years , at last he died mad . The 15. of December , a Parliament was held at Edinburgh , where most part of the Nobilitie were present , and amongst others , the Earle of Huntley , which when the Queen heard of , she said , Bothwell might as well have been there , as he ; meaning that they were both alike guiltie . In this Parliament , the Queens resignation of the Crown , the Kings Coronation , and Murrays Regencie were confirmed , their Fact was approved that had taken the Queen at Carburie , and William Douglas was authorized to keep her still in the Castle of Logh-leven . Things being thus settled , the Regent being acknowledged of all , and his authoritie ratified , Religion established , & the fear of Bothwel removed , they seemed to be in great suretie , yet were they never lesse sure ; for these very things which seemed to make them strong and sure , were the causes of change , for many did envie the Regent , some hated Religion , and others there were , that being rid of Bothwell , applied themselves to the Queen , whom only out of hatred to Bothwell , they had forsaken . Of the last sort was Secretary Metellane , of the second Tillebardin , who had also some particular against the Regent , which Writers do not specifie . The Hamiltons were of the first Rank , who thought themselves injured by him , and esteemed his Office due to them , together with Argyle , whose mother and Huntley , whose wife was of the house of Hamilton . These had some hopes from France , where Beton Archbishop of Glasgow , lay as Lieger for the Queen , and fed them with faire promises of men and money . Yet they carried things very closely , and made shew of friendship to those of the Kings side , till such time as the Queen escaped out of Logh-leven , by the means of George Douglas brother to William of Loghleven , and to the Regent also by his mother . This George had corrupted a naturall brother of his who was often trusted by William with the Keyes of the Castle . One day William being at dinner , this man desired the Keyes of him ( as he had done divers times before ) to let out the Queens waiting Gentlewoman ; and having gotten them , he let out the Queen her self in her Gentlewomans apparell , and masked . He also went out with her , and having locked the Gates , threw the Keyes into the Lake , and rowed the Queen over in the Boat to the Lake side , where George and Tillibarne were staying for her with nine horse onely . Our Writers say , it was without the mothers knowledge ; but others affirme , that she had a hand in it , being moved with pity and commiseration to see her Princesse in such estate ; and upon the Queens promise to preferre her sonne George , and pardon her other friends that were on her contrary faction ; amongst which we hear no mention of Murray . Morton also was left out ; onely it was agreed upon that his forfeiture should not prejudice their right to the Earledome of Morton . This fell out the second day of May 1568. She went that night to Nidderie , where by the way the Lord Seton , and John Hamilton of Orbiston did meet her : and the next day they went to Hamilton with 500. horse . The Regent was then at Glasgow , keeping of justice Courts . When these news were brought to him , some counselled him to go to Stirlin , where the King was , and where he would be the stronger . But William Douglas of Drumlenrig , not having the patience to stay till it came to his turne to speak , and before his opinion was asked : If you do so my Lord ( sayes he ) I will get me straight to the Queen , as Boyde hath done . For Boyde indeed was gone to her , with intention ( as he would have made them beleeve ) to play Husha's part ; for he wrote back to Morton by his sonne , that he would be more steadable , and do them better service being with her , than if he should remain with them . There is a Proverb , a foot backward , a mile backward , a mile a million , and so never forward : Whereby is signified , that there is much moment in the beginnings and first efforts , and great danger in recoiling , and letting slip the present opportunitie . So thought Drumlenrig , and the Lord Semple also was of his minde . Morton did confirme their opinion , and reduced at large how necessary it was for them to stay still in Glasgow , shewing that it was their best to make all the haste they could , & that their safetie did consist in celeritie ; in regard that so soon as it were known that she was at libertie , the opinion of her authoritie and name of a Queen would daily draw more and more followers to her : especially seeing the most remote parts of the Kingdome were most affectionated to her service . We are enough here ( said he ) together with the Towns men ( who being enemies to the Hamiltons , we need not doubt of their fidelittie ) to keep this place , and make it good against them . The Cunninghames and Semples ( potent families ) are hard at hand , and so is the Lennox , the Kings own patrimonie : Neither is Douglas-dale very farre off , nor Stirlin-Shire , and the Earle of Marres Forces . These will suffice to oppose the enemie till such time as our friends that dwell further off , be advertised . Mortons judgement was respected , and his opinion followed ; whereupon messengers were immediatly dispatched , and sent into Lowthian , and the Merse , and other parts which lay farre off , to give them notice of their danger , and of their intentions ; and to desire them to make all the haste that possibly they could to come to their aid , and assistance . The first that came was the Lord Hume with 600. horse the ninth of May ; upon his arrivall , they intended to go directly to Hamilton , and dare the enemie , and force him to fight . But that same night ( ere morning ) word was brought them , that they were gathering their forces , and mustering their men to take the fields ; for having gotten together 6000. men , and knowing by certain intelligence , that they were not above 4000 with the Regent , confiding in their number , they purposed to carry the Queen to the castle of Dumbartan , where she remaining in a place of safety , they might manage , and prosecute the warre according to their pleasure ; and either use expedition therein , or draw it out at length , and linger as they should see cause , and finde it most for their advantage . The Regent ghessing what their aime was , led also his armie forth into Glasgow-Moore , supposing they would have gone that way : but when he saw them on the South side of the river of Clide , he made haste , and crossed the river at the Bridge and Foords , to be before them in their way . I have heard it reported by those that live thereabout , that the Queens Souldiers did essay to passe the river , and come to that side where the Regent was , but one or two of the foremost being slain by his men , the rest refused to go on with such hazard and disadvantage , and therefore they took the way of Rutherglem , which leads to Dumbartan . The Regent perceiving their intent , commanded the horsemen to hye them quickly to Langside Hill ; which they did , and the rest of the Army followed them so fast , as that they were all got thither , before the enemie understood their meaning . Two things made for the Regents advantage ; one was Argyles sicknesse , who being overtaken with a sudden fit of an Epilepsie , or Apoplexie , the Army halted , and thereby gave the Regent time to choose his ground , though he came a further way about . The other was , their confidence in their number , and despising of the small number of their enemies , who were indeed fewer than they , yet were they moe than they were aware of . For having marched over hils and dales , they never had a full view of them to know their number aright and perfectly . When they came within a little of the hill , perceiving that it was already taken by the Regent , they retired to another little hil just over against it , where they drew up their Companies , and put their men in order . Argyle was Lieutenant , and led the Rere-ward . With him there was the Earles of Cassils , Eglinton , and Rothuse , the Lords Seton , Somervaile , Yester , Borthwick , Sanwhere , Boyde , and Rosse , with divers Gentlemen of good quality . The Vant-guard was committed to Claude Hamilton of Pasley sonne to the Duke , and Sir James Hamilton of Evendale , consisting most of Hamiltons , together with their friends and followers . James Stuart of Castleton , and Arthur Hamilton of Mirrinton , were Commanders of the Musketiers , which were some 300. The Lord Harris commanded the horsemen , which were most part Borderers , dependers and servants to his brother the Lord Maxwell . The Regent did likewise divide his men in two battels , the Vant-guard was conducted by Morton , with whom were the Lord Hume , and Semple . The Regent himself was in the Reer , and with him Marre , Glencairne , Monteith , the Lord Ruthven , Ochletree , and Kirkart , with the small Barons of the Lennox , and the Citizens of Glasgow . The horsemen were committed to William Douglas of Drumlenrig , and Alexander Hume of Manderston , and John Carmichell of Carmichell . They were inferiour in horse , and therefore upon the first encounter they retired , and fell back to the footmen , who made out to succour them , and drave back the enemies horse by the means of the High-Landers , especially who bestowed a flight of arrowes amongst them , and so galled them , that they could no longer endure it . The Queens Vant-guard coming to joyn battell with the Vant-guard of the enemy , marched through a narrow Lane , near unto which the Regents shot were placed in the Yards , Gardens , and Orchards of the Village of Langside so conveniently , that they being at covert did annoy the enemie , and shoot at them as at a mark without any danger , or hurt to themselves . In this Lane many were slain before they could get through ; and having passed it they were assaulted by Morton very fiercely with Pikes and Speares , and other long Weapons on both sides of the Lane. They fought very eagerly a while , in so much that when their long Weapons were broken , being so close together , that they could not draw their Swords , they fell to it with Daggers , and Stones , and and what so came readiest to hand . In the midst and heat of the fight , Mackfarlane with his High-Landers fled out of the last Ranks of the Regents Companies ( as our Writers say ) but indeed it was from this wing where they were placed , as I have heard it of those that were present . The Lord Lindsay , who stood next to him in the Regents own battell , when he saw them go away ; Let them go ( saith he ) and be not afraid , I shall supply their place : and withall stepping forward with his Company , charged the enemy afresh . Their long Weapons being broken , and themselves well nigh overcome before , they were not able to sustaine a new impression , but turned their backs , and fled . The Regent and his Squadron stood still and kept their Ranks and places , till they saw that the victory was clearly theirs , and that the enemy did flee disorderly ; then they also brake their order and followed the chase , in the which moe were killed , than in the fight ; and that most part by the High-Landers : who seeing that their side had the day , returned and made great slaughter to make amends for their former fleeing . There were many wounded , and many taken , but 300. slain , who had been many moe , had not the Regent sent horsemen throughout all quarters with command to spare the fleers . There were taken of note , The Lord Seton , and Rosse , Sir James Hamilton , the Sheriff of Aire , and Linlithgow with others . On the Victors side one man onely slain , John Balonie of Preston in the Merse , a servant of Mortons : few hurt , the Lord Hume with a stone on the face very ill : and Andrew Stuart Lord Ochletree , by the Lord Harris . The Queen , who stood as a spectatour about a mile off , seeing the field lost , fled away with the Lord Harris , and his horsemen . For after he was repulsed by the Regents Vant-guard , and the High-Landers , he went to her , and stayed by her . From thence she fled to England , suspecting the Lord Harris his fidelitie . Some do reckon amongst the causes of this victory , a contention which fell out between John Stuart , and Arthur Hamilton , two Captains of the Queens Musquetiers , who that morning before they set out , strove for precedencie , and the matter being referred to the Queens decision , she adjudged it to Stuart for the names sake and because he had been sometime Captain of her Guard. Hamilton took this so ill , that when they came neare to the enemie , he cryed out aloud , Where are now these Stuarts that did contest for the first place , let him now come and take it . The other hearing him , answered presently : And so I will , neither shalt thou , nor any Hamilton in Scotland set his foot before me to day : whereupon they rushed forward unadvisedly , and were followed as inconsiderately by Claude Hamilton of Pasley , with the Vantguard , which was the occasion of their disconfiture . The battell was fought the 13. of May , eleven dayes after the Queen came out of Logh-leven . The Regent returned to Glasgow , and after publick thanksgiving for the victorie , and mutuall congratulation , the rest of the day was spent in taking order with the prisoners . Morton sought to have had the Lord Seton in his keeping , but he was withstood by Andrew Ker of Fadunside , whose prisoner he was , whether out of fear of hard dealing towards him , or lest he should lose his thanks in saving of him , wherefore Morton modestly desisted . The day after they went into Cliddesdale , and cast down Draphan , and some Houses that belonged to the Hamiltons . Afterward there was a day appointed for a Convention of the Estates at Edinburgh , for staying of which the other faction did use all possible means . They caused rumours to be spread of some help to come out of France ; which had come indeed under the conduct of Martige ( of the House of Luxemburg ) but that the Civill Warres at home made him to be called back again . The Earle of Argyle came to Glasgow with 600. horse , and had some conference with the Hamiltons , and others of that faction , but they not agreeing , he went home again and did nothing . Huntley also with 1000. men was coming toward Edinburgh , and was on his journey as farre as the water of Erne ; but the Bridges and Foords being guarded by the Lord Ruthven , he went likewise home again . Last of all they procured Letters from the Queen of England , in which she desired that they would delay the meeting till such time as she were informed of their proceedings , and justnesse of their cause , why they took Arms against their Queen her Cousin , of whose wrongs she behooved to take notice , and be sensible . It was hard to offend her , but harder to suffer their adversaries to gain the poynt they aimed at , which was in the Queens name , and by her authoritie to keep a meeting , and to forfeit all those who were on the K. side , having already appointed a day for that purpose . Wherefore they go on with their Convention , and punish some few for example to terrifie others . And for suppressing the daily incursions of the Niddisdale , Anandale , and Galloway men , they raised an Army of 5000. horse , and 1000. Musketiers ; which expedition , because it was memorable for the extreame scarcitie of victuals when they came to Hoddam , was called , The Roade of Hoddam : They set forth from Edinburgh the 11 of June , and returned thither againe the 26. The chief thing that they did in that journey , was , that they seized the houses of Bog-hall , Crawford , Sanwhere , Logh-wood , Hoddam , Logh-Maban , and Annand . Logh Maban is a house of the Kings , and was then in the Lord Maxwels keeping : but now being surrendred , Drumlenrigge is made keeper of it , who was also made Warden of the West Marches . Assoone as the Regent was gone from thence with his Armie , Maxwels folks , who had hidden themselves in some secret corner of the Castle , turned out Drumlenrigges men , and re-possessed themselves thereof again . Logh-wood belonged to Johnston , Hoddam to the Lord Harris , and the rest to their severall Lords and Owners , which were all spared , on hope of their promised obedience : Onely Skirlin was razed , and Ken-Moore , a house of Loghen-varres , who was obstinate , and would not yeeld upon any condition . The Regent and Morton sent Sir David Hume of Wedderburne to him , who was brother to his wife , but no entreatie nor threatning could prevail with him , or move him to submit himselfe : When they threatned to pull down his house , he said , They should by so doing save him a labour ; for he meant to take it down himselfe , and build it up again better : Which was performed on both sides : for it was cast down ( the 16 of July ) and he did afterward re-edifie it much better . Many yeelded , divers stood out , of whom there came a thousand within a mile of the Regents Camp. Who were their heads , is not mentioned , but as yet Maxwel , Johnston , Loghen-varre , and Cowehill were not come in ; and whether it were any of these , or some other , we have not learned . Morton and the Lord Hume with a thousand horse went out against them , but they were gone before they came neere , and fled to the Boggs and waste Marishes . In their return , at Peebles they received Letters again from the Queen of England , wherein she renewed her former request to them , that they would send some up to her to inform her of the equity of their cause . The Regent himselfe undertakes the journey , with whom went Morton , Lindsay , the Bishop of Orknay , Master Pitcarne Abbot of Dumfermeling , Sir William Metellan Secretary , Master James Mackgill , Master Henry 〈◊〉 , and Master George Buchanan . The Queene having heard their Justification and Defences , made answer , That she saw nothing for the present to object against their proceedings , yet she desired them to leave some of their company behinde , to answer to such things as might be objected afterward by their Queens Ambassadours . While they are there , Duke Hamilton came over out of France , and desired the Queene of England to cause Murray give over the Regents place to him , being ( as he alledged ) his due , seeing he was next heire to the Crowne . But the Queen perceiving that he intended to make some stirre , and to raise new troubles in Scotland , commanded him to stay , and not depart till he were licensed . The Regent with his company was dismissed , and returned into Scotland the 2 of February . Within a while after , the Duke returned also , being made Lieutenant for the imprisoned Queene , and adopted to be her father . He sent forth his Proclamations , commanding that no authority should be obeyed , but his , which no man would obey : And that none might fear him , the Regent went to Glasgow with an Armie , and there Hamilton came ro him , and promising to acknowledge the King and Regents authoritie , he gave pledges to be kept , till such time as he should do it , prefixing a day when he would come in . When the day was come , he came to Edinburgh , and began to shift , and desire a longer day , while he might have the Queens consent . Then being asked what he would do if the Queen would not give her consent ; he answered , that he would do nothing , and what he had done already , he had done it out of fear . Hereupon he and the Lord Harris were sent to prison in the Castle of Edinburgh . The next to be taken order with , were Argyle , and Huntley . Both had been busie in the Regents absence , but not alike . Argyle had onely showne himself in the fields , but had done hurt to no man. Huntleys case was worse , he had vexed the Mernes and Angus , made Lieutenants about the water of Dee , and behaved himself in all things as if he had been King. After much debate , Argyle was onely made to take an oath , that he should be obedient in time coming , and Huntley was also pardoned , save that he was ordained to make satisfaction and restitution to the parties who were robbed and spoyled by him and his followers . For the performance of which , the Regent and Morton went to Aberdene , Elgin , and Inner-nesse , with two Companies of Harquebusiers , and Musquetiers , where having received hostages and sureties of Huntley , they returne to Perth , to hold a Convention of the States . Thither were brought two Packets of Letters from the two Queens . The Queen of England made three Propositions . First , that the Kings Mother might be restored to her former Place and Crown . Secondly , that if they would not yeeld to that , yet that her name might be used in all Writs , and joyned with her sonnes , and that the Government should continue in the Regents hands . The third & last was , that if none of these could be granted , she might be suffered to live a private life , as another subject , with as much respect and honour as could be given to her , without prejudice of the King. This last was accepted , the rest rejected . Queen Mary in her Letters desired , that the Judges might determine of her marriage with Bothwel , and if it were found to be unlawfull , that they would declare it to be null , and pronounce her free from him . To this they answered , that they saw no reason of such haste . He being absent , and out of the Countrey beyond sea , the laws allowed him threescore dayes ▪ after he was summoned at the shore and Peer of Leith ; before which time were expired , the Judges could not give out any sentence . But if she had such a minde to be rid of him , her shortest cut were to write to the King of Denmark , to execute him for his murder and Piracie . The reason why they would not have her marriage with Bothwel dissolved , was , to hinder her matching with the Duke of Northfolk , who would not adventure upon uncertainties ; & he could not be sure , so long as her marriage with Bothwel stood firm ; he being alive , & no legal divorcement had bin yet obtained . So they thought by this dilator , they would gain time , & time might work out some better effect than did appear for the present . For the Regents friends in England had written to him , That Northfolks Plot and the Queens , was so laid , so strong and cunningly conveighed , that no power , wit , or wisedome was able to resist it ; yea , though all the rest of Brittain would oppose it , yet he remained steadfast , and sent to the Queen of England one of his Domesticks , to acquaint her with Queen Maries Petition , and their answer . But she not being satisfied with the Bearer , Robert Pitcarne ( Abbot of Dumfermling ) was sent to her from a Convention holden at Stirlin for the nonce . About the very same time that he came to London , the Duke of Northfolke was committed to the Tower ( the 11. of October ) and the conspiracie discovered , the partie still remaining so strong , that she not daring to meddle with Queen Mary , was purposed to have sent her into Scotland by sea ; but things beginning to settle , she altered that resolution . Now in confidence of this so strong a partie , Secretary Metellane had taken himself to that side , and stirred up all he could against the Regent . He had so dealt with the Lord Hume , and Grange ( Captain of the Castle of Edinburgh ) that he had brought them over to that party . Hereupon he is sent for to Stirlin , whither he came , and brought along with him , the Earle of Athole to intercede for him , if need were . There Thomas Crawford ( afterward Captain Crawford ) a follower of the Earle of Lennox , accused him of being accessarie to the late Kings death ; whereupon he was committed to a close chamber in the Castle . Sir James Balfoure ( one of his Complices ) was also sent for , and the Convention were of opinion , that both of them should be used as enemies to the King , and guiltie of treason . But the Regents lenitie marred all ; he pardoned Sir James , and sent Metellane to Edinburgh , to be kept by Alexander Hume of North-Berwick . Grange counterfeiting the Regents hand , brought a Warrant to Alexander , to deliver Metellane to him , which he did ; and so Grange carried him up to the Castle . After this , the Regent went to the Merse , and spake with the Lord Hume , whom he found to be alienate from the Kings side , and inclined to the North-folcian Faction . From thence he went to Jedburgh , where Morton and others came to him . He past with them to Hawick ( the 20. of October ) and from thence he rode through the whole Dales ; he riding on the Scottish side upon the Borders , and a Company of Englishmen on the English side , that they might not flee from one side to another , nor any of them escape . He lay two nights at Cannabee , one at Copshae-holme , two on the water of Milke , and so came to Dumfreis . In this circuite he constrained the Borderers to put in pledges and hostages ( to the number of 72. ) for keeping of the peace and good order , whereby he gave great contentment to the whole Countrey , and gained great reputation and admiration , even of his very enemies . He returned to Edinburgh before the 21. of November , the day appointed for the triall and arraignment of Secretary Metellane . There finding that he had assembled so many great men that were for him ( Hamilton , Huntley , Argyle , and others ) he adjourned the arraignment , and deferred the judgement . That Faction was now become very powerfull ; many were fallen off from the Regent ; many had joyned themselves to the North-folcians , relying mainly on the Dukes power . And although he were now committed , yet the Faction held good , and the plot went on . The Earles of Northumberland , and Westmerland , with six thousand Foot , and two thousand Horse , came with displayed Banner to Durham , and there burnt the Bible and Service-Book , heard Masse in Darnton , and besieged Bernard-Castle , which was rendered upon composition . But being pursued by the Earle of Warwick , with an Army of twelve thousand , and Sussex with another of seven thousand men , they were forced to flee into Scotland about the 22. of December , and put themselves into the hands of theeves that lived on the Scottish Border , with whom they abode and lurked a while , but not very long . For Morton dealt with one Hector Arme-strang , by Sir John Carmichael , and got the Earle of Northumberland into his hands , and delivered him to the Regent ; hee sent him to bee kept in Logh-leven a prisoner , being an enemie no lesse to him and the Kings side , than to Queen Elizabeth . This made her give the better ear to Robert Pitcarne , Ambassadour from the Regent , and to desist from requesting any more , that Queen Mary might be restored again to her former place and estate . Shee declared also , that she took that which the Regent had done very kindely in pacifying the Borders , apprehending Northumberland , and imprisoning of him , pursuing Westmerland and his Faction , as enemies , his offering his best aid and assistance to her Captains and Governour of Berwick . She promised to be ever mindefull of these his good offices , and good-will shewed towards her , and that she should be readie to aid him when he should need ; yea , that he might use and command all the Forces in England as his own . Thus by the over-throw of the English Rebels , by the favour of the Queen of England , and the love of his Countrey people at home , the Regent was more strengthened , and the Kings side became the more powerfull . His adversaries therefore seeing no other remedie resolved to cut him off , and make him away by treachery . James Hamilton of Bothwell-hawke , ( one whose life the Regent had spared before , when he was taken prisoner in the field bearing arms against him ) under-took to kill him . Wherefore having watched his opportunitie , when the Regent was at Lithgow , he placed himself in a house there , by which the Regent was to passe as he rode out of the town , and shot him with an Harquebuse out at a window ; the Bullet whereof , after it had gone through the Regent , killed the Horse of George Douglas of Park-head , a naturall brother of the Earle Mortons . This fell out the 21. of January 1569. The Regent finding himself hurt , alighted from his horse , went to his lodging , and died ere midnight . Bothwell-hawke , who had done the deed , having mounted upon a horse which hee had ●…nding ready for him of purpose , escaped untaken . He was much lamented of all , but especially of Morton , who had best reason to be sensible of this losse , seeing by his death the common cause did want a main pillar and supporter thereof ; and the Kings side which he followed , was deprived of a sufficient and able leader . He himself also had lost a dear friend , with whom he had so long entertained honest and faithfull friendship , and who had borne so great a part of that heavie burden , and weight of State affairs with him . For now the whole burden of guiding the Kingdome and managing the State lay upon him almost alone , and that even in the time of the two succeeding Regents , for the space of some three years , or thereby . They indeed bare the name , and the authoritie , but he was the man by whose advice and counsell , by whose travels and paines both of body and minde , yea and upon whose charges also ( often times ) most things were performed , till at last he himself was chosen Regent , and did then all things alone without a helper . This was well known to all , and was plainly spoken in the time of Lennox his Regencie . A staff under a Hood ( so they termed Lennox . ) Morton rules all . Yet was it not so altogether , neither was Lennox so devoide of judgement , but behaved himself very well , very judiciously , courageously , and courtiously ( even in Mortons absence ) in the taking of Pasley and Dumbartan , and in his courteous usage of the Lady Fleming , who was within the Castle of Dumbartan . Onely because matters seemed to rely most upon Mortons good advice , action , and means ; the ruder interpreters made that hard construction of it , as if Morton , because he did much , had therefore done all , as commonly men are wont to judge and speak . And it is very true that is said of Lennox in that Epitaph of him , famam virtute resellit . Yet it cannot be denied , but that even while Murray was Regent , Morton did very much ; and though he were not equall with him in place and dignitie , for there was but one Regent , yet he was such a second as might well be esteemed a yoke-fellow both in consulting and performing , being a partaker with him in all perrils and burdens . So that of all that is set down here of Murray , Morton was ever an equall sharer , and may justly challenge the one halfas his due . And therefore it is that we have been so particular , and insisted so long in Murrayes actions , because of Mortons perpetuall concurrence with him in all things , and his interest in every businesse . Wherefore we hope it will not be thought impertinent to our Historie thus to have handled them , although Morton were not the sole actor , since he was a prime and maine one . For whoso will rightly consider , shall finde that saying to be true of these two , which Permenio said of Alexander and himself ( Nihil Alexander absque Permenione , multa Permenio absque Alexandro ) being applied to Morton . For Morton did many things without Murray , but Murray nothing without Morton . And thus it went even when Murray was alive , when all acknowledged his authority . Now he being dead , many swarved , many made defection ; and , as if they had forgotten what they had promised , became open enemies . The Kings party was weakened , the adverse party strengthened both by forrain and home-bred power . Fear might have terrified him , ease sollicited , honour and profit allured him to have left it , and joyned with the other side . But he shrinks not for any perill , hatred , or envie , for no pains or travell to be sustained , no case or security could allure him , no hope of favour , of riches , of honour could move him to abandon it . Which doth evidently justifie , and clear him of all the imputations which the wit of man can devise , or imagine against him . Whether it be that he conspired with Murray to make him King : he was now dead , and that hope with him : Or if it be any particular end and aime of his own , what appearance is there that he could have any private end , which he followed forth with certain danger , and uncertain event , or profit ? For clearing of which , let us weigh the parties , and the forces and meanes at home and abroad on both sides . First there were of the Queens side Duke Hamilton , Argyle , Athole , Huntley , almost all pettie Princes in their severall Countries and Shires . Also the Earles of Crawford , Rothuse , Eglinton , Cassils , the Lord Harris , with all the Maxwels , Loghenvarre , Johnston , the Lord Seton , Boyde , Gray , Oglevie , Levingston , Flemin , Oliphant , the Sheriff of Air , and Linlithgow , Balcleugh , Fa●…hast , and Tillibardine . The Lord Hume did also countenance them , though few of his friends or name were with him , safe one meane man , Ferdinando of Broom-house . Metellan the Secretarie ( a great Polititian ) and Grange an active Gentleman , who was Captain of the Castle and Provest of the Town of Edinburgh ; they had the chief Castles and places of strength in their hands , Edinburgh , Dumbartan , Logh-Maban . France did assist them , Spain did favour them , and so did his Holinesse of Rome , together with all the Roman Catholiques every where . Their faction in England was great , all the North-folcians , Papists , and male-contents had their eye upon Queen Mary . Neither was she ( though in prison ) altogether unusefull to her side : for besides her countenance , and colour of her authoritie ( which prevailed with some ) she had her rents in France , and her Jewels , wherewith she did both support the common cause , and reward her private servants and followers ; especially they served her to furnish Agents and Ambassadours to plead her cause , and importune her friends at the Court of France , and England ; who were helped by the banished Lords , Dacres , and Westmoreland , to stirre up forraine Princes all they could . Thus was that partie now grown great , so that it might seeme both safe , and most advantagious to follow it . The other was almost abandoned , there were but three Earles that took part with Morton at first ; Lennox , Marre , Glencairne . Neither were these comparable to any one of the foremost foure . In Fyfe there was the Lord Lindsay , and Glames in Angus , no such great men , and no wayes equall to Crawford , and Rothuse . The Lord Semple was but a simple one in respect of Cassils , Maxwell , Loghenvarre , and others . Methvaine in Stratherne a very mean Lord ; Ochletree amongst the meanest that bare the title of a Lord , and yet Kirkart was meaner than he , both in men and means . Neither was Ruthven so great , but that Tillibardine , and Oliphant were able to overmatch him . They had no Castles but Stirlin and Tantallon , which belonged to Morton . The commons indeed were very forwardly set that way , but how uncerraine and unsure a prop is the vulgar ? England did befriend them some times , but not so fully as they needed ; and even so farre as did concern their own safetie . So that when all is duely considered , we shall not finde any ground for one to build on , that would seek nothing else , but his own private ends of honour or preferment . Wherefore it is no wonder if Secretarie Metellane , and Grange ( men that sought themselves onely ) did joyne with that partie which was likest to thrive and prosper , in all discourse of reason and humane wisedome . Neither can any man think that Morton did aime at his own greatnesse , or that it was out of any self-respect that he followed the other partie with such disadvantage , if we will acknowledge that he was a wise and judicious man. And therefore if we search with an unpartiall eye , what could have been the motives that made him cleave so stedfastly to this cause , we shall finde them to have been no particular of his own , nor any thing else besides the equitie and justnesse thereof ( as he conceived ) his love to the young King , as his King and Kinsman , together with the preservation of Religion , and the welfare of his Countrey , which he thought did stand , and fall with this quarrell and cause . This in all likelihood hath been his minde ; which whether it was right or wrong , let them dispute who list : our purpose is onely to shew so farre as may be gathered by discourse of reason , what it was that did induce him to follow this course . Now although he had bent all his power and endeavours this way ; yet there lacked not some who did blame him , as not zealous enough to revenge Murrays death . His brothers Uterine ( Loghleven , and Buchain ) craved justice against the murtherers ; so much the rather , for that he was not slain for any private quarrell or enmitie , but for the publick defence of the King and Countrey . When it came to a consultation , some were of opinion , that those who were suspected , should be summoned to appear against a certain day , according to custome , and order of Law. Others again thought that such processe and legall proceeding needed not to be observed toward them , who had already taken arms to maintain by force , what they had committed by treacherie and treason , but that an Army should be levied against them ; and not only against them , but also against all such as had been declared Rebels by the former Parliament . But Morton did not like of this last course , nor Athole : because neither was that meeting frequent enough to determine of those things : and besides , they foresaw that the joyning of many faults would take away or diminish , and make men forget the principall ; and to mingle other crimes with the murther , were but to make all the guiltie , in what ever kinde , to joyn with the murtherers , and so raise a generall and open insurrection , and a most dangerous Civill Warre . Wherefore they deferred all till the first of May , the day appointed for a Convention , as also for choosing of a new Regent . These delayes were motioned by Secretary Metellane , who ( at Granges request , upon his oath that he was innocent of the Kings and Regents murther , and of the Rebellion raised in England , and having found sureties to appear , and answer whensoever he should be legally pursued ) was released by the Nobility here conveened . For what ever respect Metellane made this motion , Athole consented to it , and Morton also , because he saw there could be no orderly proceeding at this time . This was ill taken of the vulgar , who did interpret this delay , of which they knew Metellane to be authour , to be nothing else but a plot of his to gain time to strengthen his own faction ; and that Murrayes death might be forgotten , or at least the heat of revenging it might cool , and relent , which they thought should not have been granted , and given way to . This was done the 14. of February , the day after the Regents Funerall . The 15. of February , Argyle , and Boyde , wrote to Morton from Glasgow , where the principall of the Queens side were conveened , that they were willing to joyn with the rest of the Nobility against such as were guilty of the Regents death ; but because it was not yet perfectly known who they were , they desired that they might meet , and conferre about it , so that they of the Kings side would come to Lithgow , or Fawkirk , or Stirlin , for they would not come to Edinburgh . Morton did impart the businesse , and communicate these Letters with Metellane ( as they had wished him to do ) but he refusing to meet any where else save in Edinburgh , there was no meeting at this time . But afterward the 24. of February , they came to Morton to Dalkeeth , and laboured to perswade him to come over to their side ; but he was so farre from listening to them , that he did assure them , he would stand to the maintenance of the Kings authority to the utmost of his power . It may be , some will think that this constancie did proceed from distrust , according to that Pseudo politick and Machiavillian maxim , qui offensa , non pardóna , who once offends , never forgives : and that he thought his fault so great in opposing the Queen , that it could not be pardoned . But why should he have thought so ? His was no greater , than were some of theirs , who were pardoned , than the Lord Humes by name . And certainly by all appearance , he could have made a far better mends : he might have put an end to the controver●…ie , and restored the Queen again to her own place , which might have sufficiently expiated all his former transgressions . Wherefore we may justly call it constancy , which was accompanied with courage , in undertaking so hard and difficult a task , and with wisedome in atchieving , and bringing of it through . In the beginning of March he went to Edinburgh , whither the principals of the other party came also , Huntley , Crawford , Oglebee , and the Lord Hume , Seton , and Metellane . There were but few with Morton , till Marre and Glencairne came in to him . The next day after , they met to consult of businesse ; but because Argyle was absent ( whose power was great ) they could conclude nothing . Wherefore Huntley goes to him , with intention to bring him along with him , but he came back without him , which every body thought was done by Metellans cunning , who hindred all agreement , that he might the better fish in troubled waters . The night following , these Lords , who were on the Queens side , took such a sudden apprehension , and panick fear , without any apparant cause , that having watched all the night in their Arms , they departed next morning , without order , and very dismayedly . About the end of April 1570. the Earle of Marre set forth from Stirlin to Edinburgh against the 1. of May , which was the day appointed for a Convention of the States ; but the Lords of the contrary partie lay in his way at Linlithgow . Wherefore Morton goes forth to meet him with 500. horse , and 1000. foot , so that Marre having crossed the water of Aven a good way above Linlithgow , they joyned their Troupes , and came both safe to Edinburgh the 29. of April , about twelve a Clock at night . Thus were the two parties , the one at Linlithgow , the other at Edinburgh ; each accusing other and blaming other as authours of dissention ; yet they at Edinburgh offered to yeeld unto any thing , and to come to any terms of agreement , which might not be prejudiciall to the K. authority , and upon condition that they would assure them of their concurrence to avenge the late Kings , and Murrayes slaughter . But they were so farre from accepting of these conditions , that on the contrary they chose three Lieutenants for the Queen , Arran , Argyle , and Huntley , they appointed also a Parliament to be held in her name the 3. or 4. of August at Linlithgow . In this mean time , Sir William Drury with 300. horse , and 1000. foot came into Scotland to pursue the Queens Rebels , and such as received them ( as was given out ) but the Lords at Linlithgow fearing they might be brought against them , assoon as they heard of their coming , went toward Glasgow , and besieged the Castle thereof , which Minto had in keeping . But he being absent , and not above 24. of the Garrison Souldiers within , the Castle notwithstanding was so well defended , that having slain moe of the besiegers than they were themselves in number , after six dayes stay , hearing of the approaching of the contary partie , they raised their siege , and went every man unto his own home . The Kings side with Drury ( and the English ) went into Cliddisdale , and cast down Hamilton , and other Houses belonging to the Queens faction . After this the English returned to Berwick , and Morton did go along with them the 3. of June , having stayed some 20. or 22. dayes , from the 2. of May. The 13. of July 1570. they chose Lennox to be Regent , in a Convention holden at Stirlin , and gave him the oath to observe the Laws , and to maintain the professed Religion . His first care was to stay the Parliament , which the contrary partie had appointed to be kept at Linlithgow in August . Wherefore he sends to Grange for some pieces of Ordnance out of the Castle of Edinburgh : but he refused to send any , pretending that he would be a procurer of peace , and not an instrument of War , and shedding of Scottish bloud . Notwithstanding hereof , the Regent goes to Linlithgow with 5000. men the 3. of August , where he could see no appearance of a Parliament , nor of any meeting , nor hear no news of them at all , save that Huntley had been at Brechin , and placed a Garrison there of some hired Souldiers , and that he had also commanded them to provide victuals and lodging for some thousands of men against the 10. of August . Hereupon the Earle of Morton made haste to go to Brechin , to surprize them before they were aware , and sent word to the Lord Ruthven and Lindsay , to go with him , or before him , because they lay nearer . But the Souldiers having gotten some inkling of their coming , fled , and retired , some to the Steeple , some to the Castle , where they thought themselves to be in safety . Morton therefore lay about these places , and not long after , the Regent came thither himself in person , and the Gentlemen of the Countrey about came all to him , so that his Army did now amount to the number of 7000. men . Those that were in the Steeple , yeelded presently : but they that were in the Castle stood upon their defensive at first , and wounded some that approached to have assaulted the castle ; but hearing that the Batterie was to be planted , and that Huntley , who they looked should have come to their relief , according to his promise , had abandoned them , offered to yeeld , their lives only safe ; but when they could not obtain that , they came in the Regents will , simply , without condition . Thirty of them were hanged , who had bin taken divers times before , and bin pardoned , upon their promise never to bear arms against the King ; the rest , with their Captains , were let go free . This being done , they returned to Stirlin the 15. of Aug. The Winter following was quiet , and free from trouble . In the beginning of February , Morton was sent into England to Queen Elizabeth at her desire , with whom went Pitcarne , Abbot of Dumfermling , and Master James Mackgill Clerk Register . Being come to the Court the 18. of February , he was remitted to seven of the Councel , who were appointed to treat with him . These propounded two heads to be spoken of ; one was , that the Queen might be better informed of their proceedings , and the equity of their cause , then as yet she was , and that their reasons and proofs might be so clear , and such , that both she her self might be fully perswaded thereof , and that she might be able to satisfie others , who should require her help against them . The other point was , to make some overture of Peace , and to finde out some way of reconcilement , that so the Kingdome of Scotland might be quieted and settled . For the first point , they gave in their Reasons in writing , the last of February ; which when the Queen had read , she answered by her seven Counsellours , that she was not satisfied therewith fully , and therefore desired them to come to the second point ; what course was to be taken for pacification . She propounded the first Head onely for a shew , she knew well enough before what they could say , and was sufficiently satisfied , but would not be so , at least she would not seem to be so . As for the second Head , they answered , that their Commission was limited , and that they could not consult of any such thing as tended to the diminution of their Kings authoritie , neither would they take it upon them ( though they might ) nor use any such power , although it had been given them . The Queen was at Greenwich , whither she sent for them , and in a manner , chid them for their obstinacie , that they would not listen to a Treatie of Peace , but did rather avoide that which did concerne their good so much , and made large Protestation of her good-will toward them and their King , willing them , at least , if they would do no more , to hear what her Counsellours would say unto them . On the morrow her Counsellours propounded many things , for deciding the Title of the Crown betwixt the Mother and the Son , Morton craved the Propositions in writing , in regard there were many Articles , and of great importance . Which being given him , after he , and the others that were with him , had considered of them , they found them to be such as did diminish the Kings authoritie , and were without the bounds of their Commission ; wherefore they returned answer ; that these were things of so high a nature , that they belonged only to the three Estates , and could not be medled withall by so few as they were . This answer the Counsellours craved also to have in writing , which was done accordingly the day following . The 10. of March , they had presence of the Queen , and were again importuned to come to some proffers of agreement , but they absolutely refused . Again , the 20. of March , they were brought before the Queen , who confessed that these matters belonged to a Parliament , which ( sayes she ) seeing it is to be shortly , go home to it with Gods blessing , and take such order , as that there may be men chosen of both sides , to consult how to put an end to these controversies . And for the furthering thereof , I will send my Ambassadors thither , and will now presently deale with the Ambassadours of the Scottish Queen , and move them to gothither also , if it be possible . And so she did , but they could give her no present answer , untill such time as they had acquainted their Queen therewith , and received some direction from her thereabout . So they were forced to stay till Letters were sent , and brought again from her : which being come , the 4. of April they got presence again , and the Queen told them , how Queen Mary had rated her Ambassadours for their boldnesse , in daring to go so farre , as to enter into any terms of agreement . Wherefore ( sayes she ) seeing she is so averse from this way , I will stay you no longer ; but if afterwards she shall repent her , and be contented to hear of it , she said , she hoped they would be ready to follow the way of peace . And so they were dismissed very lovingly the 8. of April , and came to Stirlin the first of May , where having given an account of their Ambassage in the Convention assembled there , their proceedings were allowed , and approved by all . During Mortons absence in England , Lennox the Regent had taken Pasley , and the Castle of Dumbartan ; but on the contrary , the other Faction ( by Granges means , and their own Forces ) had made themselves Masters of the town of Edinburgh , with intention to keep out the Lords , & to hinder them from meeting in Parliament . Wherefore Morton being come to Dalkeith , kept 100. Musquetiers about him , together with a Company of horsemen , both to be a Guard to himself ( if they should happen to attempt any thing against him ) as also to hinder their excursions , & to keep them from pillaging the countrey about . This company of foot , with some 70. horse , he sent to Leith to assist the Herauld in making a Proclamation in the Kings name , to discharge all men to relieve or support the city of Edinburgh with victuals , or munition , or any other necessary provision . As they returned out of Leith ( out of a braverie , or because it was the nearest way ) the footmen would needs go hard by the City gates , & the horsmen ( though they liked it not ) would not forsake them . They in the town not knowing what might be their meaning , armed themselves , and seeing so smal a number , issued out at the two gates , ( called the Nether-Bow , and the Cow-gate-Port ) and skirmished with them . Mortons men ( though they were fewer in number ) had the better of them , and beat them back again within the gates . This fight was called the Lowsie-Law ( or hill ) because it was fought near to a little hill ( or Law ) where Beggers used to sun and louse themselves . It was the first yoking or bickering they had , and the beginning of the Warre between Leith and Edinburgh ; so called , because the Lords that were on the Kings side lay at Leith , and the contrary party at Edinburgh . And howsoever it was of small moment , yet it is not unworthie the observing , that this little essay , was , in a manner , a presage and prognostick of the issue of the ensuing Conflicts , that they should be of answerable successe . And so indeed it fell out , that the Kings side , though fewer in number ( as at this time ) had ever the better , during the whole time of these warres . The day appointed for holding of the Parliament being come ( which was the 14. of May ) the Regent comes to Leith , and Morton with him ; but not being strong enough to force the Town of Edinburgh , they went hard to the Gate , and having caused cast up a trench to keep the enemie from sallying out , they held the Parliament , though without the Gates , yet within the liberties of the Citie , which Lawyers said , was as good , as if it had been within the walls . In this Parliament , Secretary , Metellane , with his two brethren ( John and Thomas ) and the Abbot of Kilwinning were declared Rebels , their Lands were forfeited , and their Goods confiscated . They sate five dayes , during which , the Ordnance from the Castle did play upon them continually , and the Bullets did often fall amongst them , yet not any man was slain , or hurt , as if by speciall providence they had been protected . Afterward they adjourned it , and transferred it to Stirlin against the 4. of August . They in Edinburgh also kept their Parliament , where they had the Crowne , Sword , and Scepter ( which they had gotten from Grange out of the Castle ) and declared some of the Kings side Rebels , and in end adjourned it likewise till a new day . The Regent returned to Stirlin , and Morton went with him to bring him on his way as farre as Corstorphin : As he returned to Dalkeith , they of the Citie issued out , as if they would have fought him , and the Castle at the same time did shoot at him ; but he being without their reach , and the Enemy not daring to go farther from the Town , than the Cannons could shoot , he went home without fighting . His house being near to Edinburgh , he kept all those that lay about him , or offered to come that way , from bringing any victuall thither . Wherefore they issued out of the Citie to the number of 220. Foot , and 100. Horse , with intention to surprize him , and either to burn his town of Dalkeith , or at least to brave him at his own gate , supposing that hee durst not come out to fight them , now that his Friends were all gone home to their own houses , and not above 200. or few more of waged souldiers left with him . So they march , and carry with them two Field-Pieces , and were come to Lugton ( within half a mile of him ) before they were espied . But assoon as the Alarme was given in Dalkeith , Mortons men ( about 200 foot , and 60. horse ) came forth , and having put themselves in order in the open fields , offered them battell . After some little skirmishing , they of Edinburgh seeing themselves disappointed of their expectation ( who thought to have found very small or no resistance ) began to retire toward the City in good order , and keeping their Ranks unbroken . The Dalkethians did follow them in the same manner , til they came to the castle of Craig-Miller ; then some of Mortons Foot getting before them ( by running about on the other side of the castle ) & rising as it were out of an ambushment , fell upon them in a narrow Lane which leadeth from the Castle ; & having broken their Ranks , made them flee . When they perceived from the Castle of Edinburgh , that the flight was towards the City , and that their men had the worse , they sent out 30. Harquebusiers to their aide , and a barrell of Powder on horseback . By this new supply , they drove back Mortons horsemen as fast as they had followed them before : but while they are in filling of their measures out of the barrell , the Powder being fired by some of their Matches , killed and hurt some 24. or 30. amongst whom was Captain Melvin , that did keep the barrell , and distribute the Powder . By this mean , the losse on both sides was almost equall , safe that there were moe killed of the Citizens , and more of Mortons made prisoners ; having followed too eagerly at a straight place , called the Queens Bridges . This fell out the 2. of June . Not long after this , Morton was advertised , that they of Edinburgh were gone to Leith , to intercept Captain Weemes , and 100. Souldiers who had served in Denmark , and now being come home were waged by the Kings side . They had gone to Fyfe , and having refreshed themselves there a little while , were now coming over to Leith , to enter into the Kings service , and some 24. of them being in a little Ferrie-Boat , were taken by the enemie , and carried to the Castle of Edinburgh , the rest being in a prettie good big Barke , arrived safe at Leith . Morton came thither too late , for the men of Edinburgh were all gone ere he came , save some 10. or 12. whom he took , and kept for the Souldiers that were carried away . Morton lay long at Leith , during which time there fell out a notable conflict , and the most memorable that happened all the time of that Warre . The Queen of England laboured to mediate a peace between the parties , and for that purpose had commanded Sir William Drury ( Marshall of Berwick ) to deale with them , and trie what conditions of agreement he could bring them to . Drury went to Stirlin to the Regent , he did also speak with Morton , and was now come to Edinburgh to take his leave of them there , seeing he could do no good , nor prevaile with either side . Morton in the mean time being wearied with watching , and excessive paines and travell ; tormented also with a vehement fit of the Colick , kept his bed , which they at Edinburgh having notice of , either to take advantage of his sicknes , or to brave them of Leith in the presence & sight of Drury , to make him beleeve that they were the stronger , and hardier ; they issue forth of the Town , and march toward Leith , having ordered and ranked their men as ready to give battell . This was the 10. of June in time of their Parliament , where the chief of their faction was present , and did make Huntley Lieutenant for Queen Mary . He with the Abbot of Kilwinning , and Master John Metellane Priour of Coldinghame , had the leading of the foot , Balcleugh and Farnihaste were Captains of the horse . These came as farre as the hill where the Gibbet useth to stand ( called commonly the Gallow-Law ) not farre from Leith , Morton understanding hereof by the watch , esteeming it a great indignitie and affront , that they should offer to come so near to the place where he was , forgetting his own sicknesse and infirmitie , rose out of his bed , and caused sound the Trumpets , and beat up the Drummes , and marching out of the Town , set his men in order within halfe a mile , and lesse , of the enemie . Sir William Drury rode betwixt the Armies , and made them promise not to fight that day , but then there arose a question which of them should retire first . Morton alledged that those of Edinburgh ought to do it , because they came out first , and were in a manner the provokers . But Drury to decide the controversie desired , that when he standing in the mid-way betwixt them should give a signe , they should both retire together at the same instant●… . Morton was content , but the other partie refused flatly , threatning withall , that unlesse he retired first , they would make him do it with shame , and would scarcely forbear till Drury withdrew himself ; who when he could not prevaile with them , went aside , and looked on , saying , GOD shew the right . Morton , who had yeelded before not out of fear , but onely to satisfie the English , thinking that he had done enough to show his moderation unto them , began to march toward the enemie . There were with him 3. Companies of foot , which were Mercenaries , under the leading of Captain Thomas C●…ord , David Hume of Fishick , and Captain Weemes , who was come out of Denmark , all expert and valiant Captains . Besides these there were some Voluntiers of the Townsmen of Leith , and of Edinburgh also , who had left the City to follow the Kings side . The horsemen about 130. were conducted by William Douglas of Drumlenrigge , James Hume of Coldinknowes , and one Jordan of Aplegirth . Morton had about himself a Company of Pikemen , and such as carried Speares , and long Weapons . The fore-named Captains began the fight , and made the enemies shot quickly to give ground , and drave them back . The horsemen in like manner beat the Rebels horsemen , and routed them ; which Huntley perceiving , fled also as they did . There was no head or resistance at all made against them , save onely by a few of the foot men in the Abbey Church-yard , who made shew as if they would have defended that place of advantage , but they were quickly forced to leave it , and flee with the rest . For some of them being slain , some trampled under foot , and divers crushed to death in the throng and crowde , the rest ran away so disorderly , and fearfully , that they forgot to shut the Citie-gates , and sled straight to the Castle . And so great was their ●…r and confusion , that if the followers had not been too much bent , and eagerly set upon the pillage and spoyle , they might easily have entred , and taken the City . There were slain in this fight about some 50. of whom Gawin Hamilton Abbot of Kilwinning was one : there were 150. taken prisoners , the chief of which was the Lord Hume , being a little hurt by the falling of his horse , James Culen Captain of a foot Company , and a Kinsman of the Earle of Huntleyes had hid himself in a poor wives Aumerie , and being found , was drawne out from thence by the heeles , and brought to Leith : There so soon as the people saw him , they made a great noise and clamour , desiring that he might not be spared , but punished according to his deserts . For in the time of the Civill Warre at home , hee had behaved himself both covetously and cruelly , more like a thief and robber , than a Captain or generous Souldier : and abroad in France , he was very infamous for many vile and base pranks he had played there . And in the Warre betwixt Sweden and Denmark , he had taken Money of both Kings to levie men , and promised to aide both , but performed to neither . For these things , besides many moe foule and horrible crimes which he had committed , hee was publickly executed , to the great contentment of all the commons . Sir William Drury , when he saw how things went ( contrary to his desire , as is supposed ) being ( as was thought ) a North-folcian , went away to Berwick . After this , the Regent came to Leith , and caused fortifie it , and make it as strong as he could , to hinder any victuall to be carried from thence to Edinburgh ; and having appointed the Lord Lindsay to remain there as Governour , he returned to Stirlin , and Morton went with him to hold the Parliament , which was appointed to be there in August . There was at this time no small contest and debate , betwixt the Court and the Church , about Bishops , and Prelates , concerning their office and jurisdiction . The Ministers laboured to have them quite abolished and taken away , and the Court thought that forme of government to be more agreeable , and compatible with a Monarchicall estate , and more conforme to the rules of policie , and Civill government of a Kingdome . Besides , the Courtiers had tasted the sweetnesse of their rents and revenues , putting in titular Bishops , who were onely their receivers , and had a certain Pension or Stipend , for discharging and executing the Ecclesiasticall part of their office , but the maine profit was taken up by the Courtiers for their own use . Wherefore they laboured to retain at least these shadowes of Bishops , for letting of Leases , and such other things , which they thought were not good in Law otherwayes . There was none more forward to keep them up than the Earle of Morton ; for he had gone Ambassadour to England on his own private charges , and to recompense his great expenses in that journey , the Bishoprick of S. Andrews , being then vacant , was conferred upon him . He put in Master John Douglas ▪ ( who was Provest of the new Colledge in S. Andrews ) to bear the name of Bishop , and to gather the rents ( till such time as the solemnity of inauguration could be obtained ) for which he was countable to him . This he did immediatly after he came home out of England . Now he wil have him to sit in Parliament , and to vote there as Archbishop . The Superintendent of Fyfe did inhibite him to sit there , or to vote under paine of excommunication ; Morton commanded him to do it under pain of Treason and Rebellion . The Petition given in to the Parliament , desiring a competent provision for the maintenance of Preachers , in which they complained of the wrong done unto them by the Courtiers , who intercepted their means , was cast over the Barre , and rejected ; and by the most common report , Morton was the cause thereof . Afterward Morton in a meeting of some Delegates , and Commissioners of the Church at Leith , by the Superintendent Dune's meanes , used the matter so , that he obtained their consent to have his Bishop admitted , and installed . Wherefore the 3. of February , he caused affix a Schedule on the Church doore of S. Andrews , wherein he charged the Ministers to conveene , and admit him to the place , which they did accordingly , but not without great opposition . For Master Patrick Adamson ( then a Preacher , but afterward Archbishop there himself ) in a Sermon which he preached against the order and office of Bishops , said , there were three sorts of Bishops ▪ 1. The Lords Bishop ( to wit Christs ) and such was every Pastour : 2. My Lord Bishop , that is , such a Bishop as is a Lord , who sits , and votes in Parliament , and exercises jurisdiction over his brethren . 3. And the third sort was ( my Lords Bishop ) that is , one whom some Lord , or Nobleman at Court did put into the place to be his receiver , to gather the Rents , and let Leases for his Lordships behoofe , but had neither the meanes nor power of a Bishop . This last sort he called a Tulchan Bishop , because as the Tulchan ( which is a Calves skin stuffed with straw ) is set up to make the Cow give down her milk ; so are such Bishops set up , that their Lords by them may milk the Bishopricks . Likewise Master Knox preached against it the 10. of February , and in both their hearings ( Mortons , and his Archbishop ) to their faces pronounced , Anathema danti , anathema accipienti , a curse on the giver , and a curse on the taker . This much I thought fit to mention here , and to cast these things together which are of one nature , though done at severall times , yet which began at this Parliament in Stirlin . While the Lords assembled at Stirlin lay there securely and negligently , without fear of the Enemie that lay so farre off as ( they thought ) at Edinburgh , they had well nigh been cut off all of them , and the whole cause overthrown . Forthere was in Edinburgh one George Bell ( an Ensigne-bearer to a Company there , and a Stirlin-man borne ) who knew all the Town , and every Lane , and Street , every turning and corner in it . He had learned also in what particular houses everie Nobleman was lodged . This Bell knowing by intelligence how carelesse the Lords were , how few they had with them , and that there was either no watch kept at all , or else but very negligently , & the Centinels very thin placed , thought it possible to surprize them with a very few men ; wherefore having imparted it , and acquainted the chief Commanders withall , they liked , and approved of it . So with all speed they prepare for the journey , and march from Edinburgh with 200. horse , and 300. foot ; the Earle of Huntley , Claude Hamilton of Pasley , and Walter Scot of Balcleugh being their Captains and Leaders . They used such expedition , and were so fortunate , that having got thither undescried , they planted themselves in the Market-place , and setting men to guard all the Lanes , and narrow passages of the Town , they entred the Noblemens lodgings , and took them prisoners ; the Regent , Glencairne , and others . Onely Mortons house made some resistance ; which being so well defended , that seeing they could not enter otherwayes , they set it on fire , and he , seeing all filled with fire and smoak , one or two of his servants also being slain , yeelded himself to Balcleugh , who had married his Neece Margaret Douglas . And thus having made all sure , as they supposed , the Souldiers began to roame up and down the Town , and rifle the houses , seeking for spoyle and bootie . In the mean time the Earle of Mar●…e , and his folks , who were in the Castle , and had essayed divers times to break into the Market-place , but in vain , all the passages and entries being so well guarded , that they could by no means do it ; at the last he sent some 16. of his men , with small brasse pieces of Founds ( as they call them ) to his own new house , which was then a building : and because no body dwelt in it ( for it was not yet finished ) the Enemy had not regarded it . These entring in at a back-gate , got up to the top of the house , and to the windows which did look directly into that Street where the Enemie was , and began to shoot among the thickest of them . Hereupon they presently fled so fast , that they 〈◊〉 one upon another thronging out at the gate . Marres folks came presently down and pursued them , but the lodging-gatebeing shut , they could not get out at the little narrow wicket but one at once , and that very slowly , whereby the Enemie had time to flee safely . And now many that before kept within doores for fear , began to creep out of their corners , and come forth to the Street , and joyne themselves with the Earle of Marres men ; so that the case was quite altered ▪ For the Victours and Conquerours , leaving their prisoners and their spoyle , fled for life to save themselves ; and divers became prisoners unto their prisoners , namely those who had taken Morton and Glencairne . The Regent was taken by David Spense of Wormiston , who was himself killed while he laboured to save the Regents life , and the Regent also received his deaths wound . They might have utterly destroyed the Enemie , but that at their first entry the Tividale men had taken away all their horses , so that they could not pursue them . And so they escaped ( we may say ) on both sides : for both were victorious , & both were vanquished in a few houres space . A rare and remarkable example , how available , and of what moment it is to use diligence and expedition ; and how dangerous in time of Warre to be negligent and secure . But especially this accident doth make good that often repeated observation of that great Warriour Julius Caesar , Multum in utramque partem fortuna potest ; that in all the exploits of Warre , fortune hath great power either to frustrate , or make successefull . But what he cals fortune , we know to be providence , and ought so to call and acknowledge it ; which turnes the wheele of humane affairs beyond , and contrary to their expectation . If we may judge of the justice of the cause by the perpetuall successe of the maintainers , and by their meeknesse and moderation therein , the Kings side have had the better and the juster . The Regent died that same night , and was buried in the Chappell of Stirlin Castle , with such solemnitie as the Town and time could afford . The Grand-father being dead , the next Regent was Marre , being chosen the 8. or 9. of September the same year 1571. There were three put on the list , Argyle , Marre , and Morton . It is strange , they should have made Argyle one , who had been all this while on the contrary faction , and was now but a reconciled Enemy at most , unlesse they were sure how to carry it . Many thought Morton should have been the man , but he nothing ambitious of the title , which was but matter of envie , helped to cause Marre be chosen , who was a very sufficient and trusty Nobleman , able to discharge the place , and who had the Kings person in keeping within the Castle of Stirlin . The main thing that he did in his Regencie was , that he conveened the Countrey , and lay about the Town , but wanting Artillerie to batter it , he returned again to Leith ; where having divided the Kingdome into quarters , he appointed the severall divisions to come to him by turnes , with whom having broken the Mils about Edinburgh , he placed Souldiers in the villages and Gentlemens houses about it , to hinder all kinde of provision from it . In the South parts of the Kingdome , Balcleugh and Farnihaste did molest the Kings side , especially the town of Jedburgh . Wherefore Morton both for this cause , as also for a particular against Farnihaste , who claimed to be Bailiffe of Jedward Forrest ( which belonged to the Earle of Angus ) by inheritance , sent for the chief Gentlemen of the Merse , and desired them to subscribe a Band , by which all those that were by name insert therein , did binde themselves to assist other , and all of them to aid and assist the Warden Sir James of Coldinknows . In this Band were contained the townsmen of Jedward , the Laird of Badrule , together with the Trumbles and Rutherfords , and divers others . The first that wascalled ( they being all assembled together in Mortons lodging at Leith ) was Sir David Hume of Wedderburne , who flatly refused to subscribe it ; but said , Hee was ready to serve the King , as became a faithfull Subject , so farre as hee was able ; but that hee would not binde himself in any Band to any man , further than hee was already bound in duty , especially such men , with whom he would not enter into any societie , fellowship , or combination . He understood chiefly the Trumbles and Rutherfords , which names were infamous , and most of them reputed theeves , and Badrule a notorious one . Morton seeing him thus resolute , lest the rest might by his example refuse likewise , caused him go aside into a back-room , and called in the rest . The first of which was Patrick Hume of Polwart , who hearing of the Trumbles and Rutherfords , refused also to be joyned with them , or to subscribe . When Morton asked him his reason , he answered roundly , Because , sayes he , it may be some of these men have helped to steal Wedderburnes cattell . And hath Wedderburne any cattell stollen from him , sayes Morton ? Yes , my Lord , answered the other , that he hath . He did not tell me so much , sayes Morton . But it is true , my Lord , saith Polwart . Well , sayes Morton , will ye subscribe this Bond ? I cannot , my Lord , saith he , as the case stands . If you do not , saith he , you shall do worse . Worse , my Lord , saith the other , nay , rather than do worse , I will do it . No , but saith Morton , I do not mean to compell you . No ; but my Lord , saith hee , you have said enough ; and so he signed it , accounting it threatning and compulsion , and so himself no whit bound by his subscribing . The rest of the Gentlemen being called , seeing Polwarts hand at it , made no more scruple , but set to theirs likewise . After this , Morton went to dinner , and being set , hee remembred himself , and sent one to call Wedderburne out of the back-roome , and when hee came , he asked him , Why he did not come to dinner ? I was ( saith he ) lawfully committed , my Lord , and I would not break prison , but stayed till I was lawfully released . These dealings made some that were rigid censurers think hardly of Morton , that hee would use such infamous men , and tolerate them for his own ends , especially being a publicke person , and in the place of justice : Yet others did excuse him , as being necessitated thereunto by the times ; there being no other way to counter-poyse the power of Farnihaste and Balcleugh , but by these Trumbles and Rotherfords ; alledging withall , that it is not fit , or possible , to observe those Schoolrules precisely in Politick affairs , which it seemes hath been his opinion also . In February , Morton being absent in S. Andrews , about the installing of his Archbishop Master John Douglas , those in Edinburgh watching and laying hold on this opportunitie , went forth , and setting fire in the town of Dalkeith , burnt some twenty houses thereof , and having spoyled and pillaged it , returned safe to Edinburgh . There was little other thing of moment done by either side , during Marres time . And now by the Garrisons ( which lay about Edinburgh ) hindering Victuall to be brought to them , their scarcitie increased so much , that they sent to procure an Ambassadour from France , and another from Queen Elizabeth , to mediate a Peace . And for the preamble of a full Peace , the Ambassadours obtained a Truce in July , to begin the 1. of August , 1572. and to last till December , or January . The conditions were simple , that the Town of Edinburgh should bee patent to all the Kings Subjects ; which was as much to say , as that they should render it up , since they could keep it no longer . And so it was done the first of August 1572. Before the expiring of this Truce , the Regent sickened , and died at Stirlin about the twenty eighth of October , 1572. Thus have wee waded through those times and actions of the Earle Mortons which were inter-mingled with those of other mens ; in which though he were not the sole agent , nor the principall and first in place , yet had he a main hand in all of them , and in all the affaires of Estate , he was ever a chief Actour , during the reigne of the Queen-Mother , and Queen Mary ( her daughter ) in the time of the three Regents , Murray , Lennox , and Marre ; to all whom , he was ever even more than a second . Now we are come to that time and those actions , which are absolutely and fully his own ; where he is the deviser and executer , sole counsellour and sole commander of all , where there is none to go before him , none to share or partake with him in his praise , or blame . What hee doth aright , the honour thereof is due to himself alone ; and if hee do any thing amisse , the blame thereof must lye upon him onely . The pain or pleasure , the gain or losse , touch and concerne him , and none else . For Marre being dead , wee do not finde so much as any question made , who should succeed him in the Government ; mens mindes had by presage designed him to it , and the Lords meet to accomplish that presage , rather than to consult of it . Wherefore the twentie fourth of November , he was by uniforme consent of all those of the Kings side , chosen to be Regent . Would you know the reason of their choice ? Be pleased then to hear it in the words of a stranger , who is very impartiall , and farre from lavish commendation , that is , Master Thin ( or Boteville ) in his Scottish Chronicle ; They sought ( sayth he ) a new Regent to succeed in Marres place , that might in all respects defend the Kings Person , and the Realme , as he had done before . Wherefore the Noblemen assembling , did select by one consent , the Earle of Morton to that Office , a man no lesse wise than provident , and such a person , as both for the nobilitie of his birth , and service to the Realme and to the King , did well merit the same . By which it appeares , that he did neither ambitiously seek the Place , nor got it by faction , but was chosen to it for the good of the Countrey , freely and advisedly . He sayes indeed , that it was after long consultation , but it could not be very long , being little more than a moneth , which was short enough time to be spent in making the late Regents Funerall , and to conveen the Nobilitie therein . For according to himself , the election was in December ; but our Acts of Parliament ( which are more authentick ) say , it was the 24. of November . But how ever long their consultations were , we do not hear that he had any Competitour , or that there was any other mentioned or nominated with him ; and seeing he sayes , it was done ( by one consent ) then was there not any contrary Votes , or contradiction and contesting ; but a perfect and full uniformitie and harmonie of minde amongst all of that side . Nay , even of those of the other side also , who sent ( as some Notes say which I have seen ) Commission and Proxees to that purpose , and namely , the Duke and Earle of Huntley . Others say , these were at the Parliament , where this Regencie was confirmed , holden the 26. of January , in Edinburgh . They that delay it longer , cast their yeelding in February at Perth , where they name Huntley , Argyle , Athole , and in generall , the greatest part ( say they ) of the Nobilitie , and so we see his entrie was free and right , and duly approved by all ; the rest of his Office we have to consider . It lasted the space of five years and three moneths , till the twelfth of March , 1577. which is the time of his dismission . All this time the Countrey injoyed a full and perfect Peace , save so much warre as they had in recovering the Castle of Edinburgh out of the enemies hands . There were within the Castle ( beside Grange Captain thereof ) Secretarie Metellane , and his brother Master John , Priour of Coldinghame ( afterward Chancellour of Scotland ) who remained still in terms of hostilitie . I know not why , nor wherefore , whether it was , that they thought themselves so guiltie , as that they could not be pardoned ; or that they had conceived such spleen and hatred against the other Faction , that they would not be reconciled ; and so , out of despair , taking a desperate course , or that they were borne up with hope of some change , perswading themselves , that this agreement among the parties could not last long , being so ill cemented ( as they conceived ) but that some difference would soon arise upon some occasion or other , and that the rather , having their example for the present , and the Castle of Edinburgh for a place of refuge , when it should be needfull . Upon these , or such like considerations , being also not altogether forsaken of the French ( who sent some small supply of Moneyes , but large promises by James Kircadie , brother to Grange , who landing at Black-Nesse , conveyed himself and it secretly into the castle ) they resolved to be the last in yeelding , and to hold out so long as possibly they could , assuring themselves that they could make their peace when they listed ( if it should come to the worst ) by surrendring the place upon good conditions . There were with these forenamed ( as their followers ) the Lord Hume , who was altogether led by Metellans counsell , and Logan of Rastarig , who depended upon Hume . Pittadraw was Lieutenant to Grange the Captain , and Sir Robert Melvill was Uncle to Grange . The Regent being resolved to pull this thorne out of his foot , caused the Castle to be inclosed with a trench , and Souldiers set to keep it , under the command of Captain Crawford , and Captain David Hume before mentioned . And because they of the Castle watered at a Well ( called S. Margarets Well ) Captain Michell was appointed to lie with his Company at S. Cutberds Kirk , who hindred them from fetching water from thence , and after a while , he found means to poyson it , and so left it without any Guard. While the Castle was thus blocked up , one Captain Bruce issued forth thereof , to bring in victuals , but he was taken by the Regents men , saith Master Thin : a thing very hard to be conceived , how he either durst , or could do it ; neither is there any mention or memorie of his being there , o rany where els to be found . Now because the Castle did annoy the City with their Ordnance , so that none could walk in the Street ( which lies open in a straight line from the Castle exposed to their mercy ) without danger of their lives , the Regent caused make three Traverses or Dikes , 〈◊〉 ramparts of earth , turfe and dung , over-thwart and crossing the Street , so thick , as that they were Cannon-proofe , and could not be pierced , and so high , that they took away the view of the Street from them of the Castle . One of these was raised hard by the Land-Market above the Tolbooth , and the other two ( with proportionable distance one from another ) nearer the Castle ; so that the Citizens and others walked safely to and fro about their businesse , and the Lords also sate in Parliament without any hurt , notwithstanding that the very day of their sitting ( the 26. of January , or as others the 16. ) for their welcome and first salutation , they had bestowed on them 87. great shot ; onely there was one poor dog killed before the Regents door . Neither was there any great hurt done before , though they had been still sending their vollies the 1. of January ( at what time the truce expired ) not above 6. persons hurt that kept the ●…nches , and as many within the City , but none slain . One night the Captain issued forth , and skirmished with the Regents Souldiers in the trenches , till he found means to set some houses of the City on fire ; which , the winde being high , did spread through the City , and when any did offer to quench it , he caused the Ordnance to play so thick upon them , that none daring to come near it , there were some 100. houses consumed therewith being burnt down to the ground , but not any man either slain , or hurt . This fact made him , who was hated before , to be abhorred and thought abominable by all men . Wherefore the Regent determining no more to dally with him ( not having sufficient store of Artillerie of his own , and fearing lest the Castle being well victualled , might hold out too long ) he sent to the Queen of England to borrow of her ; who sent him 30. pieces in ●…ll ( viz. 9. Cannons , 6. Demi●…anons , 6. Sacres , and 9. Culverins ) with all manner of needfull provision ; together with 700. or ( as Master Thin saith ) 1500. men under the conduct of Sir William Drury Generall . With these and 500. hired Souldiers of Scots , besides the Gentlemen Voluntiers , and the Citizens of Edinburgh ( after he had summoned the Castle , and they not obeying ) he sate down before it the 20. of April 1573. They raised five Mounts or Terrasses , whereon to plant their batterie , in that place where now Heriots work is built . These ( being called by the severall names of the chief Commanders , First , the Kings , Secondly , Mount Drury , Thirdly , Mount Leyes , from Sir George Leyes , Fourthly , Mount Carie , from Sir George Carie , and fifthly , Mount Sutton , from Thomas Sutton Master of the Ordnance ) were finished the 17. of May , with great toyle and labour , and not without some losse of men by shot from the Castle . They began their batterie the 17. of May , and continued it till the 26. The Castle is situate on a steep and inaccessible Rock , having a large utter Court beneath that Cragge whereon the Castle standeth . About this Court there is a strong Wall , and on that side which lieth towards the Town of Edinburgh , a Bulwark ( or Blockhouse ) ending in a sharp point , being made in form of a triangle . The use of it is to defend the entrance and gates of the Castle . The wals of this Blockhouse are subject to the sight and shot of the Castle , and so may be defended by those that are within , but the corner & sharp point thereof is not so , and if it be taken by the Enemy , those that are within the Castle cannot annoy them . There were within the castle at the inner end of the said Blockhouse , two turrets of ancient workmanship , but more high than strong ; of which the one was called Davids Tower ( which stood nearer the Gate ) the other without it nearer to the South , was called Wallace Tower , but I know not the reason of their names . Against these two Towers , and the side of the Blockhouse nearest to the Castle , they directed their first batterie . Thereafter they battered round about on every side of the Castle , and having dismounted some of the Ordnance within , and broken other some by shooting in at the mouth thereof , their Cannon did little hurt , being made unserviceable . Besides , Davids Tower being battered , was beaten down , and fell in such sort , that the ruines thereof did damme up the gate and ●…trance betwixt the Castle and the utter Court and Block-house . The Blockhouse was also battered in that part that was over against the gate ; and Wallace Tower , which stood above the gate within the Castle , was beaten down . There was a breach large enough , made not farre from the gate of the Bulwarke , and the ditch also was filled up with stones and rubbish , so that they might well enough have entred there ; but because it lay so open in the very mouth of the enemies shot , it was not thought safe to give the assault at that place . Wherefore having provided Ladders , they went to the point of the Blockhouse , there to climbe up out of danger of the Enemies shot . The foremost in this service were Captain Hume and Captain Crawford . Humes Ladder being too short , and there being one of his men also shot upon the Ladder behinde him , he was forced to come down again , and so Crawford got first up , and Hume followed him upon his Ladder , and so did the rest of the Souldiers without any hurt done . So they went forward , and planted a Corps de guarde before the Gate of the Blockhouse called Humes Porter-lodge , I know not why or how it got that name . They had no let or impediment , save that they had some small shot from the Castle , for the great Ordnance could not annoy them , being so high above them . And those that had kept the Blockhouse , had forsaken it , and weretaken in to the Castle , being towed up over the Wall in the night . Forit being sore battered , and the passage from thence to the Castle being so dammed up , that there could come no relief nor succour to them from within , they would not stay in it any longer , but abandoned it . While they were in scaling the Blockhouse , there was another Company sent to make shew of giving an assault at another place , but they having gone further on than they had warrant or direction , they were repulsed , and about thirty of them slain . And so they did ( as it were ) make an exchange , and recompense their losse of the Blockhouse , with the death of these thirty . But this taking of the Blockhouse , was a matter of no great consequence ; for neither could they any wise annoy or harme them that were within from thence , neither was the Castle Wall any where scalable , but as hard and difficult to get up into it as ever . Onely they had taken from them the onely Well which was left them , and out of which had been furnished to each man a pint of water a day . For the other Well that was within the Castle , by the fall of Davids Tower , was so filled with lime and rubbish , that it served them to no use . Besides , they were at variance amongst themselves ; for the Souldiers were not well pleased with their Captain , in regard of his hard usage of them . For he had committed to his wife the charge of distributing their Vivers , so to please her in that , that she might be the better contented to bear with his untimely and unlawful love toward her maid whom he intertained all this while . It is true , the victuall began to grow scarce , but she made it scarcer by her niggardly disposition . They did not mutine , but they murmured so , that they within were content to Parley with the besiegers . Wherefore the 26. of May , Grange the Captain , Pittadraw Lieutenant , and Sir Robert Melvill came down over the Wall by a rope , and spake with Generall Drury ; for they addressed themselves to him , as one in whom they did much confide as a favorer of theirs . They demanded that their lives , lands & honor safe , they might depart with bag and baggage , both he , and all that were with him . But when he could not obtain that , he returned to the Castle again . The Regent after this , found means to let the souldiers understand , that if they would render up the Castle , their lives should be saved , and they should have free libertie to passe with bag and baggage whither they pleased ; else that they must expect all rigour and extremity . Hereupon they shew themselves unwilling to undergo any more paines or danger for him , and refuse to obey him ; so that he was constrained to yeeld up the Castle the 28. or 29. of May , without any condition at all , but referring himself absolutely to the Queen of Englands pleasure . Her pleasure was to remit all to the Regents own wisedome and discretion , and so the 16. of July she called back Sir William Drury and her Souldiers ; as also about the same time her Ships and Munition were sent home againe to her . Concerning the prisoners , the Lord Hume was committed again to the Castle , and the Castle to the keeping of George Douglas of Parkehead , brother naturall to the Regent . Sir William Metellane of Lithington deceased ( the 9. of July at Leith , where he lay with Drury ) before he was suspected , and reported to have poysoned himself . What fear , what guiltinesse , or what other occasion there was to move him hereto , or what information he got , or apprehension he took of the Regents minde toward him in particular , I know not ; but after that he knew that he was to be left by the English in the Regents hands , he lived not many dayes . None of the rest were hardly used , save Grange the Captain , who being odious for his breach of faith to those of the Kings side ( with whom he took part at first ) and much more hated for his treacherous dealing with the first Regent Murray , who had been so kinde and loving a friend to him , and had trusted so much to him ; but most of all for his obstinacie and unmercifull cruelty in firing the Town of Edinburgh , and not suffering them to quench it , the common people did so abominate and detest him , that they could not abstaine from revlling and cursing of him , as he was led along , after the Castle was surrendred ; neither could they be hindred from stoning of him : so that they who were with him were faine ( for saving of themselves and him ) to take the house upon their heads . And now that he was in the Regents power , there was no way to satisfie them , but by executing of him : Wherefore being condemned for these things , he was put into a Cart , and drawn backward to the Market-place of Edinburgh , where he was hanged , and with him his brother Master James Kircadie , and two men of Edinburgh ( Mossman and Cackie ) who had made false Coin in the Castle on the 3. day of August 1573. Master John Metellan was sent prisoner to Tantallon , and Sir Robert Melvill to Lithington , to be kept there by David Hume of Fishick , who th●…n possessed it . This was the onely exploit of Warre which he atchieved , and by which he acquired great reputation ; the former Regents having never been able to get this Castle into their hands : as also by his no-wayes rigorous dealing with those that were in it . The rest of the time of his Reg●…ncie , there was a generall peace in the Kingdome , and full obedience was yeelded to him by all men . No man of those times had seen the like before ; no King was ever more dreaded and reverenced , nor did ever keep all sorts of people ( High-Landers , Low-Landers , Borderers and all ) in better order and greater subjection , even to inferiour Magistrates , both Civill and Ecclesiasticall . The chief mean hereof was the execution of the Laws . He made not many new ones , but what he made , he took care to have observed . Concerning Religion , there are these five Acts extant , which he made in his first Parliament the 26. of January 1572. before the besieging of the Castle . 1. The first of these is relative to an Act made by Regent Murray before . In it ( being made for establishing of Religion ) it had been declared : That they were not of the Church , that did not approve the heads of Religion then received , and who refused ●…o participate of the Sacraments as they were administred . Morton ordains ( in this Parliament ) such persons to be first searched , and secondly , admonished to recant then wicked errours ; thirdly , to make confession of their faith according to the form prescribed ; fourthly , to participate of the Sacraments ▪ fifthly , submit to the Discipline of the Church within such a competent time ; sixthly , if they fail to do this , that they be excommunicated ; seventhly , then have their names printed in a catalogue ; eightly , divulged ; ninthly , & affixed on the Tolbooth door of Edinburgh ; tenthly , from thenceforth to be reputed infamous ; eleventhly , not to sit or stand in judgement , pursue , defend , or bear any publick office ; twelfthly , not to be admitted as a proof or witnesse , or assessour against any , professing the reformed Religion , till they submit , be reconciled , and obtain a testimoniall of their reconcilement . That to be in this Catalogue shall be a relevant exception against , first , Judges principall : secondly , or Deputies : thirdly , Members of Court : fourthly , Officers : fifthly , Parties or Procutors : sixthly , persons of inquest : seventhly , or witnesses , to decline them from , first , Judgement : secondly , Office : thirdly , Pursute : fourthly , Procuration : fifthly , Inquest : or sixthly , Bearing witnesse : That the Arch-bishops , Bishops , Superintendents , Visitours , Commissioners , Readers , shall give in their names within every one of their bounds ; under pain of forfeiting a years rent in case they fail . 2. The second Act is : That all Ecclesiasticall persons ( that is Ministers , or such as pretend any right to have , or brook and enjoy any , first Benefice : secondly , Life-rent : thirdly , Stipend : fourthly , Pension : fifthly , or Portion of Benefice ) who shall not confesse , subscribe , and participate the Sacraments , as said is , shall be ipso facto deprived , and all his Ecclesiasticall promotions and livings shall be voide and vacant , as if he were naturally dead . 3. The third Act : That none should be reputed as loyall and faithfull Subjects to our Soveraigne Lord , but be punishable as Rebels , that gave not confession and profession of the reformed Religion : That such as had once professed it , and afterward made defection , should returne before the first of June next , and renew their former confession : first , Promise to continue in it : secondly , To maintain the Kings authority : thirdly , The Preachers : fourthly , And Professours of the true Religion , against whomsoever and whatsoever enemies , especially against all ( of whatsoever Nation or degree ) that had bound themselves to maintain the decrees of the Councel of Trent , and were falsely called , The holy League . 4. The fourth Act : That whosoever were excommunicated , and remained so 40. dayes , letters of horning should be directed to charge him to satisfie the decree of the Church pronounced against him , and to be reconciled to the Church , and submit to the Discipline thereof under pain of Rebellion : and if he did remain obstinate , that hee should bee put to the horne , and then letters of caption should be granted to apprehend him , &c. 5. The fifth Act was : That Ecclesiasticall persons ( such as above ) remaining year and day at the horne , should lose their Life-rents . These Laws he procured to be made in Parliament , and being made , he saw them duely executed ; by which mean it came to passe , that in his time , there was no man in Scotland , that professed advowedly any other Religion than the reformed ; or maintained any point of Religion , contrary to the doctrine of this Church . Men do now wonder at it , how it could be : yet so it was , and this was the mean that procured it . As for the Borders , hee tamed and daunted them by In-rodes , and Justice-Eyres , executing some for terrour to others , taking pledges and hostages of the rest , and punishing them that transgressed according to their faults , most part by pecuniarie mulcts and fynes . The High-landers were kept in , by binding the chief of the Clans over to the peace ; and partly by fear , partly by gentlenesse , he drew them to the obedience of the Laws . But the chief mean for all , was a solid and perfect peace established amongst the Nobilitie , the onely certain and sure way of keeping the Borderers in order ; as by the contrary , a stir amongst the States ( as themselves speak ) doth never faile to incite them to their theeving and robbing . This he knowing well , partly by his wisedome compassed and effected it , partly it fell out of its own accord by mens inclination thereto , being wearied with so long troubles , and the turbulent heads that stirred up and entertained dissention , being now taken away by death . It is matter of laughter and sport , to consider mens judgements concerning this his government . I heard then , and have read since in some memorials of those times , his government mightily taxed , and reproached , and himself censured as covetous & greedle , as one that hanged some poor snakes for a shew of justice , but suffered the richer theeves to escape for their money . And yet the same men do not stick to say and write , Betwixt the 3. or March 1575. and the 4. of March 1577. the space of two years , there was nothing of importance to write of : All this time the Regent governed the Realme both well ; and wisely : for during these two years , the common people had rest and quietnesse ; Not considering that his government in the former years had procured , and caused the rest and quietnesse of these years : Yea , these same things which they call ( hanging of the poor for shew of Justice , and letting the rich go for money ) they might call it ( if they would speak in proper termes , and give it the right name ) a just moderation and tempering of justice with lenitie ▪ punishing some ( lest impunity might breed contempt of the Law ) punishing the fewest and in the gentlest sort , lest too much rigour might drive them to despaire , and so force them to desperate courses , and to stirre up new commotions . If this course did withall meet right with any natural inclination in him towards money ; yet that inclination did rather concurre with this judgement , than cause it . He knew the nature of his countrey-men , how they cannot easily endure to have their lives touched , or their bloud medled withal , and how hard it is to over-master them by the strong hand , and a violent way , but farre more easie to be overcome and gained by fair meanes ; and therefore out of his wisedome hee made choyce of this , as the best way for his purpose of settling Peace . The event and issue did justifie his choyce : for from hence did arise a full Peace , and perfect quietnesse , together with all obedience and good order in Church and State at home ▪ and account and great esteem of Strangers abroad . His meanes ( indeed ) were also increased , yet that came not so much by publick fynes or for●…ures , as by his good husbandry and thrifty managing of the revenues of the Crown , and his own private estate . For no man knew better how to improve both the one and the other , and to make the best of them ; and no man was more carefull and diligent in it , than he . He guided both himself , and imployed his own pains and industrie therein , as in all affairs whatsoever . His servants were ever particularly directed by himself , and they did but execute what he commanded . The chief men he used were John Carmichael of Carmichael , and George Auchinleck of Balmannoe . He imployed the former in all matters that were to be done upon the Borders , having made him even a warden ; theother had a care to gather in his rents , and was ( as it were ) Stuart or Chamberlaine to him . His private delight was in planting and building , which hee did very magnificently , especially at Dalkeith ; for which Drumlenrig admonished him that it was too sumptuous and stately for a Subject , and too near to Edinburgh . He built also an house in Tweddale , called the Droghholes , for his private retreat . He grew so ▪ in esteem of wisedome and riches with all men , that it was no wonder though hee were a little touched with the opinion of it himself ; being now past all emulation , and so accounted of by all men , he could not but esteem also well of himself . They who did envie him had little hope to hurt him by action , being above their reach ; but by their tongues they sought to make him envied of all ; saying , He had all the riches , all the friendship , and all the wisedome of Scotland , Him alone . This was Hyperbolicall , and spoken to stir envie ; yet thus far it was true , that he had more of all these than any other one man , and so much as all his enemies were not able to match or impaire . He had added to his friendship great parties , the Lord Maxwell and Hamilton . Maxwell married his Niece ( a daughter of his brother David , and sister Germain to Archbald Earle of Angus ) and the Lord Bothwell also had married her sister Margaret , Relict of Walter Scot of Balcleugh . The Lord Hamilton had been in great enmitie with him ; for ( besides the publick cause of Regent Murrays death ) he with his brother Claud of Pasley , had killed Johnston of Wester hall , a follower and depender of the house of Angus . At that time the Countesse of Cassills ( Lyon by name , of the house of Glames , and a near Cousin to the Regent ) was a widow . Whether the love to that Lady brought on the reconcilement , or their reconciliation occasioned the affection to the Lady , it is hard to say ; but so it was , that Hamilton suited her in marriage , and obtained his suit ; and by this all quarrels , and more especially that slaughter of Westerhall was taken away . And for the better satisfaction herein , both the brothers ( the Lord Hamilton , and Claud of Pasley ) made publick obeysance to Archbald Earle of Angus , in the Palace of Haly-rood-house , by coming the whole breadth of the Inner-Court thereof bare-footed , and bare headed , and falling down on their knees , holding each a naked sword by the point , delivered it to him to take hold thereof by the Pommell . This was in the yeare 1575. the seventh of March , being Monday , A●… this , Hamilton was married to the Lady . Yet may it bee doubted , whether he acquired more friendship in private by them , than he furnished matter of obloquie in publick to the countrey ; because both these brothers were accounted authours or accessarie to the killing the Earle of Lennox , ( then Regent ) and the Kings Grand-father ; as also they had been of that of Regent Murray . These slaughters all the Nobilitie ( especially of the Kings side ) had solemnly sworne to avenge : and now by this hee seemed to neglect that quarrell , and his oath , and that he had more care to be satisfied in his own particular , for the slaughter of one mean man his depender . It grieved particularly William Douglas of Logh-leven , who desisted not from the pursuit of those that had slain his brother Murray : after a privat manner , seeing he could not get publick justice executed ; twice he set upon the Lord Hamilton , as he was coming from Arbrothe , and chased him so , that he was constrained to return to Arbrothe again . Another time as he was coming through Fyfe , he made him flee to Darcie , which he beset & lay about it , till the Regent sent to him , and commanded him to desist . However , by the alliance of these Noblemen , he seemed more strengthened & more secured . The Earle of Angus ( his Nephew ) was married to the Lord Ereskins sister , daughter to the late Regent , Earle of Marre , a Lady of rare beauty and vertue , and worthily made choice of by Morton who was author of the match , both because of the Ladies deserving , as also for that it not a little seemed to strengthen him , seeing her mother and uncles ( during the minoritie of her brother ) had the custody & education of the young Kings person , which was the only way to attempt any thing against his Regencie . Whether these things begat in him security , and security bred carelesnessè to entertain mens love , from whence did arise a loathing of him in all estates , & coldnesse in particular friendship ; or what ever the occasion was , certain it is , that he keeped his place more by the estimation of all , than by the affection of many , on the occasions following . We shewed before , how in matters of Church-government , he ever inclined ( as the most politick course ) to the estate of Bishops . The name was yet retained by custome , the Rents were lifted also by them ( as we have said ) more for other mens use & profit , than their own . They had also place & vote in Parliament after the old manner , and he would gladly have had them to have kept their power and jurisdiction over their brethren . M. John Douglas being dead , he filled the place by putting in M. Patrick Adamson his domestick Chaplain , who then followed that course , thoughbefore he had preached against it . Many were displeased herewith , all the Ministers ( especially they of greatest authority ) & all men of all estates that were best affected to Religion . He endeavoured also to have put the charge and cure of more Churches into one Preachers hands , that there being the fewer to provide of stipends , the Kings revenues ( who paid them out of the thirds of the Church lands ) might be increased by the surplusage which remained to him . Hee did so eagerly presse this point ▪ that some thought it necessary to write against this course ; namely , Master John Davidson ( Minister at Salt-Preston ) then a Student at S. Andrews . Him he caused to be summoned to under-lye the Law , and to be indicted criminally , and being entreated for him ▪ he shewed himself so animated against him , that he durst not under-go his triall , but fled to England , with the consent of those that were bail for him ; of whom he exacted the summe to the full , and they willingly did choose rather to pay it , than to expose their friend to the hazard of his wrath . The Printer of the Book Robert Lake-privike , was convicted by an assise or jurie , and committed to the Castle of Edinburgh . It was also hardly taken , that he sought to diminish the authoritie of the Generall Assemblies of the Church , by refusing to be present ( being desired ) at an Assembly holden in Edinburgh the 6. of March , 1573. which was very frequently and solemnly kept almost by the whole body of the Countrey ; the Nobility , Gentrie , Commissioners from Burrowes , as the custome had alwayes been , and as he himself before had been present at them . Yea , he began to question the priviledge and libertie thereof , by asking the Commissioners ( which were sent from them to crave his assistance thereat ) who had given them power to assemble the Kings Lieges without his leave , who was in authority : With this unlooked for demand , they were dashed at first , but re-collecting and gathering their wits again , they answered : He that gave power to preach aud hear preaching , gave power also to conveene in Assemblies : Neither doth it depend on man ( say they . ) He said , that was treason . They answered , That if so be , then all the Apostles were Traitours , and the primitive Church in time of persecution . He said , That they conveened onely to preach the word : They answered , That they conveened to advance , facilitate , and set forward the preaching of the word , and that was to preach also . But however , if to conveene without the consent of the Magistrate were unlawfull , preaching was also unlawfull , unlesse they should preach to the Wals. A little velitation thus passed , he in end refused to goe , which did so grieve them all , that a publick Fast was appointed to pray for diverting and averting of such things as he seemed by this to intend against the accustomed Assemblies . He propounded to be reasoned , whether the supreame Magistrate should not be head of the Church , as well as of the common-wealth ; and there were Divines appointed to dispute it for the Church , Master James Lowson ( Minister at Edinburgh ) the Laird of Dun ( Superintendent of Angus ) and Master John Spoteswood ( Superintendent of Lowthian ) and James ( or Master David ) Lindsay . For the Regent , there was the Justice-Clerk , Master David Borthwick , Sir James Balfoure , and William Douglas of Whittingame . These met at Edinburgh in the Abbey , and conferred for the space of 12. or 13. dayes ; but hee finding no appearance of obtaining that point , dissolved the meeting till a new appointment . The Commons , and chiefly the Town of Edinburgh were offended with him , because he had diminished the value of a certain brasse or copper coyne ( called Hard-heads ) and abased them from three half pence to a penny : and also the plack piece ( another brasse coyne ) from foure pence to two : which was done ( notwithstanding ) by the consent of a very frequent Convention , where the whole Nobility ( no Earle , Lord , or great man in Scotland being absent , except the Lord Hamilton , not then reconciled ) was present the 25. of February 1573. He licensed also the transporting of Corne out of the Countrey , against which he himself had made an Act , but now he dispensed with the Act for money . He committed all the Butchers of Edinburgh for forestalling the Market , and afterward dis-missed them , having paid a Fine . He held Justice Eyres , and raised a taxation under colour to c●… down the Woods of Hair-law ( on the Borders ) which was a place of retreat and refuge to out-laws , theeves and rebels . These things were interpreted to be done rather as a pretext to get Money , than for any other good use or end . He was in his own person loosely given ( his own Wife being frantick ) and his houshold servants were not much better , as it commonly comes to passe by imitation . They were also not altogether void of envie for their great wealth : nor of hatred , in regard of the way that men thought they got it , which was by receiving and taking bribes from such as had suites to him for obtaining accesse to him , or his favour by their means , and some such indirect wayes . Riches are ordinarly accompanied with hautinesse and disdaining of others , either really , or in mens opinion ; which doth again beget disdain in those that think them disdainfull . This was the generall opinion men conceived of his servants , from the highest to the lowest , even of his door-keepers and grooms . One thing did marvellously offend men : George Authenleck of Bawmannow having ( I cannot tell what ) small quarrell against one Captain Nisbet , being come out of Dalkeeth ( where the Regent kept commonly his residence ) and going up the Street , he met this Nisbet , where drawing his Rapier , he thrust him through , and leaving him as dead , he held on his way to the Tolbooth where the Lords of the Session sate , as though he had done no wrong , with great indignation of the beholders : and at night he returned to Dalkeeth , where he waited upon the Regent as before . This made the people to murmure both against him as the actour , and against the Regent as conniving thereat , who perhaps did not hear of it , at least for a certain space . This Authenlecks credit with the Regent was so great , that all suites ( for the most part ) were obtained by him : and therefore men of the best qualitie countenanced , and followed him , which was both observed and disdained . One day this man being in the Tolbooth within the Inner-Barre , Oliver Sinclar ( sometime Minion and Favourite to King James the fifth , who was now at Court ) standing at the Middle ▪ Barre , intreated earnestly to speak with him , which having obtained with difficultie , when the other asked him what he had to say to him : Oliver answered , I am Oliver Sinclar , and without saying any more , left him ; as if he should have said , Be not too proud of your courtship , I was once as you are , you may fall to be as I am . This was matter of much talk a long time . The Nobilitie grudged to see the Regent and his servants to ingrosse all matters of profit and commoditie to themselves alone . If any Writ were to passe , it passed through at the highest rate ; few casualities were given cheap , fewer gratis . The marriages of Wards , the gifts of escheit , re-abling , or naturalization , were bestowed all upon his Domesticks . They were neglected in these things , and in other things also of a higher nature , their advice was not often sought , nor themselves much imployed , as if he had not stood in need of them . The Earle of Argyle was mightily incensed against him upon this occasion . He had a Jewell which had sometime belonged to Queen Mary , which was an ensigne of precious stones , set in forme of the letter H ( for Henry ) which his Lady had either gotten from the Queen ( who was her sister ) to keep , or some other way in a token perhaps ; the Regent re-demanded it as belonging to the King , and when he got it not by request , he sent an Officer of arms to him , and charged for it ; whereupon it was delivered to him , but with great alienation of his heart and affection ever after . His most near and particular friends wanted not their own exceptions and grievances against him . In the East and middle March , he planted strangers amongst them , as Arch. Auchenleck ( brother to George ) and Arch. Carmichael ( brother to John Carmichael of Carmichael ) in the Merse . These he married to two Wards ; the last to one Hume , Inheretrix of Edrem ; and the former to one Sleigh of Cumblege ; notwithstanding that she had gone away with Patrick Cockburne ( brother Germain to the Laird of Langton ) who had kept her certain dayes , yet he caused an Officer of arms to charge him to deliver her , and so she was exhibited , and married to Auchenleck . Both these march with the Lands of Bonckle , belonging to the Earle of Angus ; and therefore this planting of these men there , was not well taken , but was interpreted , as if hee had meant to strengthen himself there by them , and to acquire dependers there for himself , not leaning or trusting sufficiently to those of the Earle of Angus , or his friends in that Countrey . The purchasing of the Lands of Spot to his naturall son James , wrought him both hatred and hurt ( in the end ) for it quite alienated Alexander Hume of Manderston . This Alexander had to wife a sister of George Hume of Spot , and by her divers children , of which one was George , afterward Earle of Dumbar . George of Spot having but one daughter , had taken to him , and ( in a manner ) adopted this George sonne to Alexander , with resolution to bestow his daughter on him in marriage , and with her his whole estate . It fell out afterward , that John Cockburne of Ormeston married a daughter of Alexander of Manderston . This John having some difference with Spot about some Lands , the very day before his marriage , rode with his Company , and did eat up the Cornes that grew on the controverted Lands which Spot had sowne . The next day Spot being at the Wedding of his sister daughter , complained of the wrong done to him , but received small satisfaction , either of the Bride-groome , or of his brother-in-law , who was loath to offend his new Allie . Spot conceived such indignation hereat , that to be revenged of Manderston , he resolved to sell his estate , and to bestow his daughter somewhere else , and so to disappoint his sonne George . Wherefore he addresses himself to the Regent , and offers his daughter with his whole estate to his sonne James . The Regent , nothing slack to such an occasion , without more scruple or any question , transacted and contracted with him , and the marriage was accordingly accomplished betwixt Anna Hume , and James Douglas who got by her all the Lands pertaining to her father George Hume of Spot , his life-rent onely being reserved . By this mean Alexander of Manderston , and his sonne George were debouted and frustrate , which did so incense him , that from that time forward , he lay in wait ( as it were ) and watched for an opportunity to be revenged of the Regent . There lyeth near unto these Lands of Spot , the Lordship of Thurston , which belonged by inheritance to Craigie-Wallace , but was possessed by Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , and had been possessed by his Predecessours of so long a time , that it is thought to have been their possession before they had Wedderburne , for eight or nine generations . The right they had was sometimes a Lease , sometimes ( the Lease expiring ) kindlinesse onely . At last , the King having given to Wedderburne the Lands of Dundonald ( which lay hard by Craigie Wallace Gates ) Wedderburne puts him in possession of them , and retaines his possession of Thurston , wherewith they rested both a long time well contented and satisfied . This excambion being reall , and without Writ on either side , it fell out that the Kings Lands ( which had not as yet bin set to feud ) coming to be set out , they that were intrusted therewith , finding Craigie-Wallace in possession of Dundonald , gave him a legall right to it , and so he had the right both of it and Thurston . Hereupon he warnes Wedderburne to remove from Thurston , as having no right thereto , but he kept his possession . On this ensued no little trouble , by reason of Waughtons assisting of him , who had married Craigie-Wallace sister . Afterward Sir George of Wedderburne ( Uncle to this Sir George ) marrying a daughter of Waughtons , matters were taken up and accorded , and Wedderburne was no more molested . The Regent knew all this very well , and yet notwithstanding hereof , the nearnesse of Thurston to Spot , and his desire to enrich his sonne , made him to send for Craigie-Wallace , and buy his title and right from him to Thurston . T●…en he sends for Wedderburne , tels him what he had done , and that he did not mean to make him a loser thereby : and therefore desires to know what satisfaction he would have for his right and interest . He answered , That he desired nothing but his own , and that onely could content him . The Regent replyed , That he had now bought that : And the other answered , That he was the more unkinde to buy that which he knew to be his by so long and kindly possession . No other in Scotland ( sayes he ) would have bought it , nor you , my Lord , if you had not been Regent . This he bore patiently , as a free speech of a justly offended friend ▪ yet he still pressed him to know what contentation he would have ▪ but the other persisted in his former answer , That his own would onely content him . So they parted , being divided in words and minds , concerning this particular , but without breach of friendship . After a while the Regent ( to bring on the matter more freely , and to necessitate him thereto ) makes warning , and no objection being made , obtaines a decreet of removing against him . Wedderburne to shew what little account he made of these doings , fals a building on it , that he might know he had no intention to remove . He had a Lease which was not expired as yet , and there were two or three years thereof to run ; but he would not make use of it , but kept it up , par●…ly to trie the Regents intention , partly reserving it as a ground of reduction , if it should need . Thus they continued all the time of his Regency ▪ after his dimission the difference was taken away by William Douglas of Logh-leven , after this manner ▪ Wedderburne got one half of the Lands ( the Manour-house , and what lay about it ) and a full and perfect right thereof , and did quit the other half , which was let out in Tenantry . Sir James Hume of Coldenknows , and Alexander Hume of Huton-hall were also alienated from him , but I know not what the occasion of it was . In Tiviotdale William Ker of Cesford , and Andrew Ker of Fadunside were likewise displeased , and had fallen off from him for some hard usage . Hee had banished William Ker of Ancram , for the fewd betwixt him and the Rutherfords , of whom hee had slaine one . His fathers house of Ancram was seized , and given in keeping to his enemies the Trumbles . His mother ( a daughter of the house of Wedderburne , and the Regents Cousin Germane ) had often sued to him , to have it restored to her and h●…r husband , but could not prevaile with him . At last , she found means by her self and her servants , to get into the house ( being negligently kept ) and turning the keepers out of doores without doing them any harme , dwelt in it with her husband , and her other sonne Robert. William absented himself from publick view , and remained sometimes in England , but most part in Wedderburne , both in Sir Davids , and Sir Georges time ; neither was the Regent very carefull to pursue him , or search after him ( though hee knew of it , and they made no bones to confesse their receiving and entertaining of him in their houses ) yet would he not release him from his banishment , being loath to displease the Trumbles and Rutherfords , whose service was very usefull to him . He tolerated also John Hume ( sonne naturall to John , called of Crumstaine of the house of Wedderburne ) who had been with William Ker of Ancram in all his troubles , so farre as at the meeting which the Regent had with the English ( after the Red-swire ; ) he being in company with Wedderburne , the Trumbles and Rutherfords perceiving him to be there , went to the Regent , and complained that he was suffered to live in the Countrey , being a Rebell , and one that had so much wronged them . Let him alone ( sayes the Regent ) and do not meddle with him at this time , when he hath so many of his friends about him : for if he were now challenged , it might trouble you and me both . Some few dayes after this , he went to Tantallon with Wedderburne , where having kept himself out of the Regents sight all the day long , at night ( when the Regent was gone to bed ) he fell to Cards with the servants in the h●…ll . The Regents Chamber was hard by , and he , not resting well , arose and came forth to the hall in his night-gowne to look on their gaming : By chance John sate next to him , and he leaning with his hand on his shoulder a long time , without knowing who he was , at last going away to bed again , he perceived it was he , and smiling , said to him , GOD make you a good man ; and so went his way . From thence forward John conversed in publick and came ordinarily into his sight and presence without being challenged , as if he had been formally released from his banishment . The Earl of Angus himself had his own discontents ; and thought him too carefull to preferre & provide for his natural sons , and not so careful of him as he should have been . Besides , these that thought themselves dis-obliged , he had professed enemies that hunted for all the advantages against him they could devise ; at home the Castle faction ( Master John Metellane , Sir Robert Melvin , Pittadraw ) and abroad in France , the Lord Seton , Farnihaste , Waughton ( who was not very busie ) the Bishops of Glasgow , and Rosse , Ambassadours , and Agents for the Queen . These things , like warts or freckles in a beautifull body , seemed to stain the lustre of his government , and though they may be thought but small slips and weaknesses , yet they made impression in the mindes of some , and in the own time brought forth hard effects , albeit in respect of his place , wisedome and power ( like slow poyson ) they were long ere they did shew forth their operation . There fell out a businesse in the year 1576. the 7. of July , which men looked should have brought on warre with England . Sir John Forester , Warden of the middle March in England , & Sir John Carmichael Warden for Scotland , met for keeping of the Truce , at a place called , The Red Swire . There the Scottish Warden desired that one Farstein ( an English man ) who had been filed by a Bill of goods stolne from Scotland , should be delivered ( as the custome was ) to the owner of the goods , to be kept by him untill he were satisfied for them . The English Warden alledged that the man was fugitive , and so the Warden was not bound to answer for him , or deliver him , but the party endammaged was to seek redresse of any that should be found to receive or harbour him in their houses . Sir John Carmichael taking this not to be spoken in sinceritie , but for a shift to frustrate justice , urged and pressed the matter more hardly , desiring him to speak and deal plainly , without sparing any ma●… for fear or favour ; but regarding onely what was just and right , according to equitie and reason . Sir John Forester thinking himself taxed of partialitie , beganne to bee angry , and in a contemptuous manner bad Carmichael match himself with his equalls , and not with him , who was above him both in birth and quality ; and therewith hee rose up from the place hee sate in , and walked a little away from thence . The English Borderers ( chiefly they of Tindall ) being all Bow-men , when they perceived their Warden displeased , glad of occasion to trouble the Peace , sent a flight of arrows amongst the Scots , whereby they killed one of them , and wounded diverse . The Scots who looked for no such thing , and were gone some to Cards , and some to other Pastimes , being scattered here and there , fled at the first many of them . At length some few ( about twenty persons ) taking courage , and calling to the rest to stay and stand to it , they joyned together , and charged the English so fiercely , that they slew divers of them , amongst whom was Sir George Heron , a worthy Gentleman , and well beloved of both the Countreyes , whom they would have been loath to have hurt , if the heat of the conflict had not carried them to it unawares . Sir John Forester , and the Gentlemen that were with him , were taken prisoners , and brought into Scotland to the Regent . He entertained them kindely , and honourably , but detained them as lawful prisoners , and breakers of the Peace , till the Queen of England sent for them . It was expected that this should have bin an occasion of warre ; but the Regent was nothing afraid of the matter . He knew them , and they him ; he entertained friendship with them after his wonted manner , and sent many Scottish Falcons for a present to the Courtiers of England , whereof one made a jest , saying , That hee dealt very nobly and bountifully with the English , in that he gave them live Hawkes , for dead Herons , alluding to Sir George Heron , who was slain . The businesse came to a treatie , and the Regent came in person to Foulden in the Merse , where the English Commissioners met him . They agreed on these termes , That the goods should be restored , and for satisfaction and repairing of the Queens honour , Carmichael should go to London , and come in the Queens will. He went as far as York , where being come the 26. of September , he was detained there some five or six weeks , and so was dismissed . Concerning restitution of the Goods , the Regent caused make a Proclamation , by which he commanded all that were on this side of Forth , to come to him at Edinburgh the 8. of October , with provision of victuall for twenty dayes , intending to go to the Borders . But he continued or adjourned the diet till he should give new advertisement ; for the Borderers ceased from their stealing , and took order for restoring what they had taken . Afterward he held Justice-Courts at Peebles and Edinburgh , which was interpreted to be done , more for getting money , than doing of justice . The townsmen of Edinburgh were especially aimed at , & most carefully summoned ; yet they were continued and cast over to another time ; only they paid a thousand marks Scottish for Bullion , which the Merchants are bound to furnish to the Mint , but had neglected to do it . During the time of his Regencie , he met with one private conspiracy , of which John Semple , son to the Lord Semple was author ; upon what ground or motive I know not . It was revealed by one Gabriel Semple , who being confronted with John before the secret Councel , avouched it , and offered to make it good by combate : But it needed not , for John confessed it , and was thereupon condemned to be hanged , quartred and drawn . Yet when his friends interceeded for him , the Regent ( nothing bloud-thirsty ) did onely send him to the castle , there to remain during pleasure ; which not being declared , he was kept there during his Regency , after which he was set at liberty . In the year 1577. the 4. of March , the Nobility assembling at Stirlin , concluded that the King should take the government into his own hands , and should be guided by a Councell , and the Regent deposed . No cause was given out , nor could there be any sufficient reason pretended . The King was not yet 18. years of age , which was the time limited and set down in the Act of the Queens dimission for him to be governed by Regents . At most he was but 11. or 12. years old , When these newes were brought to the Regent at Dalkeith , being astonished therewith , he came to Edinburgh ; but little countenance was made to him by the townsmen ; few came from the countrey ( no Baron almost of note , save Wedderburn ) none of the Nobility , so far were they alienated from him in affection . And indeed though they had intended to have come in to assist him , he gave them no time to do it ; for , ere they could have come ( as my Lord Boyd only did ) he had dimitted his Regencie ; and was so far from making any impediment or let to the Proclamation , that he assisted a single officer with a trumpet , who came to proclaime the Kings authoritie , and publickly laying down his Office , he took instruments of his dimission . The next day when the Lord Boyd came to him , hee chid him soundly for this his haste ; and even he himself , when he had thought better on it , was angry with himself , that hee should so rashly and unadvisedly have given way to his enemies , who used the Kings bare name against his authoritie , which was to last five or six years longer , and was established by the Laws of the Kingdome , and Act of Parliament ; unto which they themselves had consented and given their approbation . Whether or not hee did best in dimitting , it may be disputed on both sides . The adverse party seemed strong , Argyle , Athole , Crawford ; yea also ( which did most astonish him ) his friends Glames , Ruthven , and Lindesay ; his most cherished , Pitcarne ( Abbot of Dumfermling ) Secretary , and Tillebardin Controller ; he had the ill-will of the Burrows , especially Edinburgh . And yet having right and the law on his side , some would have regarded that ; the multitude ( so mutable ) might have been reconciled , and the Faction dissolved ( being glewed together by nothing but common discontentment ) by contenting some , and putting some in hope of having place in managing the affairs of the Kingdome . Neither could matter of division have been long wanting amongst themselves , where there were so many heads , such diversitie of judgement , and so many severall aimes and intentions . If hee had but stuck to his right declared , and claimed it , and in the mean time kept himself safe by his own power and friendship in Dalkeith or Tantallon , it is possible , and not improbable that hee might have dis-appointed them . But hee left that way , and having dimitted the authority , he rendered also the Palace of Haly-rood-house , the Mint and Coyning-house , with the printing irons ; also the Kings Jewels , and what else belonged to the Crown was delivered to the Lord Glames and Maxwell , who were sent from the King and his new Councell to receive them . And good reason he should do so , for now they were no more his , seeing he was no more Regent , having dimitted the authority , he could not retain them . Yet he did not so with the castle of Edinburgh , which the same two Lords had also commission to receive . His brother ( George of Parkhead , as we have said ) was Captain of it , who not being well provided of Victuall before , he found that it was then too late to begin . For seeking to Victuall it both privatly and openly , hee was hindred by the Townsmen , whereupon ensued bloud-shedding and slaughter . The Town had placed a Guard about the Butter-market ( where the Weigh-house now stands ) and the Constable of the Castle Archbald Douglas ( brother to John of Tillie-whillie ) issuing forth , set upon the Guard before they were aware , and having killed two or three of them , retired to the Castle again . This did no good ; it procured hatred toward himself , but purchased no Victuall to the Castle . Wherefore the Guard being more warie , he was so straited for want of Vivers , that he was forced to surrender it to the Lord Ruthven and the Lord Lindsay the first of April 1578. In this mean time ( some fourtnight before , the seventeenth of March ) the Lord Glames Chancellour , was slaine at Stirlin . There had been some old quarrell betwixt the Earle Crawford and him ; but now both being on the Kings side , they were upon termes of agreement or assurance . I●… happened so , that as the one was going to the Castle of Stirlin , and the other coming from it , they rencountred in a narrow Lane. Both of them commanded their followers and train to give way , which they did , and were now all passed save two of their servants that were last , who having first justled one another , drew their Swords , and flew to it . Hereupon both their Lords with their Companies turned , and began to skirmish ; where the Lord Glames being a tall man of stature , and higher than the rest , was shot with a Pistolet , and so died . It is uncertain who it was that shot him , but many thought it was Crawford himselfe , because he was very skilfull in shooting with a piece . Wherefore he was committed to prison , but was released again soon after , without further triall or enquiry : Whereupon followed great enmity and mischief betwixt these two families of Crawford and Glames . It was observed with admiration , that the news of this slaughter , which was committed about five a Clock in the after-noon , was reported punctually and perfectly at Edinburgh by six , there being 24. miles distance between . It appears by this , that if Morton had not laid down his authority over hastily , other such things might have fallen out to have divided that faction , which might have furnished him with matter enough to have wrought out his own continuance therein . But now having laid it down , he must play the after-game as well as he may . There were chosen to be of the Kings Councell , Argyle , Athole , Montrose ; the Bishop of Caithnesse ( Montroses Grand Uncle ) the Abbots of Dumfermling , and Newbottle ; the Lord Ruthven , Lindsay , and Oglebee . These coming to Edinburgh , he gives place , and withdraws himself , not to Dalkeeth ( it was too near ) neither to Douglas ( it was too farre off and out of the way ) nor to Tantallon ( it was a place of strength , and it might have been interpreted fear in him ) but to Logh-leven to his Cousin William Douglas , who was also a near Cousin to the Earle of Marre ; that from thence , and by him he might deale with them who had the Kings Person in keeping , and finde meanes to turne about the wheele againe , and to overturne them who had turned him ( in a manner ) out of his Regencie . There hee busied himself in making of Walks and Alleys , in drawing of Garden plots or knots , little minding any State affaires in appearanee ; or if any warie wit did suspect any thing of him , or any clear eyed Lynceus , or well sighted Argus espied some designe ( which was very hard for them to doe ) yet most part saw nothing ; and there were but few that suspected any thing , and none that could help or hinder it . For so hee brought it ( as most men think ) or so it came to passe , that Alexander Ereskin ( brother to the late Earle ) a man of a good easie nature , and no ill disposition , and who , though of himselfe hee were nothing factious or malicious , yet he had been an instrument , whom the other partie ( Argyle , Athole , &c. ) had used to turne Morton out of his Regencie , by admitting them unto the King , who was committed to his charge as Captain of the Castle of Stirlin , and Tutour to the young Earle of Marre , was himselfe almost after the same manner turned out of his charge of keeping the King and Castle . For as the King had been moved to take the government upon himself before the time appointed , so the Earle of Marre was moved to take upon himself that his own charge ( of keeping the King and Castle of Stirlin ) before his time , being not yet of age nor Major . The manner of it was this : One morning ( the 26. of April 1578. the Earle got up betimes to go a hunting , and sending for the Keyes of the Castle Gate , Alexander ( his Uncle ) came himself in person , and having opened the Gate to let his Nephew forth , he himselfe and his servants were thrust out at the Gate by the Earle , assisted by his own naturall brother , and his Uncles the Abbots of Cambskenneth and Driebrugh ( very worthie , kinde , upright , and honest Gentlemen ) and so he took the Keyes and keeping of the King and Castle into his own hands the 27. of April 1578. ( as my notes say ) and so not above 7. weeks after Mortons dimission of his Regency . Whether or not Morton imployed Tillibardine in this work , and gave him Money for it ( he being Uncle to the Earle of Marre ) I cannot affirme it , though I know it was reported ; neither indeed can I say confidently that Morton plotted this businesse , and that it was his doing , or what hand he had in it , or whether it were nothing else but division amongst themselves . However it were , by this meanes the designes of the new Counsellours were turned to nothing . They had ( the 9. of April ) chosen the Earle of Athole Chancellour , and indicted a Parliament to be held the 10. of July , and had consulted of many Articles to be concluded therein . Upon the newes of this change , they go to Stirlin , but the Castle was kept so close , that they were not suffered to come in , save one at once . There they had some meetings in the Town , and afterward returned to Edinburgh the 8. of May. Morton waa come to Dalkeith a little before ; wherefore they send to him , and desire to conferre with him . He came to Craig-Miller , and there spake with Athole and Argyle , and at last ( after much tossing of businesse ) they agreed so well , that they went with him to Dalkeith to dinner . On the morrow ( the 9 of June ) Morton goes to Stirlin , and was friendly received by the Earle of Marre into the Castle . The rest followed that same day , so that the whole Nobilitie was assembled together the tenth day . By their advice the Counsell was changed , and Morton made Principal and President thereof . The Parliament by Proclamation was transferred to Stirlin , there to be held the twentie fifth day of July , whither the Lords of Parliament were ordained to come with their ordinary train . The other Lords , Athole , Argyle , Montrose , Lindesay , Oglebee , Maxwell , Harris , and the former Councell conveened in Edinburgh , and sent Montrose and Lindsay , to excuse their absence , and to give the reason and cause of it , because ( as they alledged ) the Parliament was not free , being kept within the Castle of Stirlin , and both King , Castle and all in the Earle of Marres power . All this notwithstanding the Parliament held , wherein there were not many things concluded . The chief things were a discharge given to Morton for his government , during the time of his Regencie . An ●…xoneration to the late Earle of Marre ( who had been Regent ) for his keeping of our Soveraigne Lords Person within the Castle of Stirlin . The Lord Hume was also restored from his forfeitrie , by the meanes and procuring of Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , with the consent indeed of Morton ( whom he solicited for that end ) but against his opinion and advice . For he told him freely , that he thought it was not his best course ; for ( sayes he ) you never got any good of that house , & if it were once taken out of the way , you are next , and it may be you will get but small thanks for your paines : Sir George answered ; that the Lord Hume wa●… his Chief , and he could not see his house ruined ; if they were unkinde he could not do withall , that would be their own fault ; this he thought himself bound to do , and for his own part , whatsoever their carriage were to him , he would do his duty to them ; if his Chief should turne him out at the fore-doore , he would come in again at ▪ the back-doore . Well ( sayes Morton ) if you be so minded , it shall be ●…o , I can do no more but tell you my opinion , and so consented to do it : Yet Sir George had so ordered the matter , that he made no question to have carried it without Mortons consent by the Abbot of Driebrugh and Cambskenneth , to whom he was allied by his wife . Wherefore they are mis-taken that say 〈◊〉 did all , and that there was nothing done but according to his pleasure ; for hee was but accessary , and concurred ( as one of the chief and prime Noblemen ) but the house of Marre had the main sway at this time . At this Parliament , the wardenrie of the East march was taken from Coldinknowes , and given to Sir George of Wedderburne , and he thought it no robberie to take it , being given him . In August the other Lords ( with whom were Coldinknows and Manderston , Cesford and Fadunside ) assembled their forces , and having set forth a Declaration , that their purpose was to set the King at liberty , they marched from Edinburgh to Fawkirk . Neither was Morton slow in gathering together his friends at Stirlin , with resolution to have tryed the hazard of a battell . The Earle of Angus went out divers times , and skirmished with them , but there was no great hurt done . Onely in a single Combate or Duell ( upon a challenge ) which was fought on horse-back with Lances , one Taite ( a Tividale man that belonged to Cesford ) was slain by James Johnston a follower of Angus , he also being sore wounded . At last they came to an agreement , and lest they should seem to have done nothing , they condescended that the King should be brought to Edinburgh or elsewhere , as they pleased , by the advice of the Nobility , which served little for their purpose ; for there was no time limited ; and when he was brought to the palace of Haly-rood-house ( the 30. of September 1579. a year after ) yet was Marre and Morton the chief men about him , and had greatest credit with him . But before that time it was concluded in Councell that the Lord Aberbrothe and Claude of Pasley his brother should bee pursued as slayers of Lennox and Murray ( late Regents ) which was done accordingly . But they themselves having fled into England , their servants were taken , and some executed , others imprisoned , and their Lords Houses demolished . This motion is thought to have proceeded chiefly from the house of Marre and Logh-leven . Wee hear of no new occasion given by them , for they remained neutrals , and did not side with either partie at this time . Mortons part was , that he remained a spectator , and was contented that mens minds should be taken up with some other thing , and not have leasure to think of him , and his late greatnesse , and that their furie should be powred forth on somewhat else . While they remained yet at Stirlin , the Earle of Athole died suddenly , which was matter of much talk , and gave occasion to Mortons enemies to lay that foule aspersion upon him , that he had poysoned him . For all the Doctours did affirme that he was poysoned , save onely Doctour Preston , who said it was no poyson ; but being desired to taste of it , and having onely touched a little thereof with the tip of his tongue , it had almost cost him his life , and he did never after fully recover , but languished and was sickly so long as he lived . Wherefore seeing it was certainly poyson , Who could give it him ( said they ) but Morton ? And yet they could never tell how he could doe i●… . For hee was not in Mortons lodging , nor Morton in his , as they knew , and doe themselves confesse . Neither were any that belonged to Morton in his house , and though they had beene , they were neither Cooks , nor Cup-bearers , nor Carvers to him . So blinde is malice , or so malicious are impudent detractours . Morton cleared himselfe of this imputation at his death . And yet there are some to this day , that are not ashamed to report it . In the next yeare 1579. in June , upon the Kings longing to be abroad , it was concluded in Councell that he should go to Edinburgh the 25. of September next , but he came not till the 30. day thereof . Morton and Marre were still with him as his chief Counsellours . They invited him to Dalkeith , where hee remained a certain space , and returned to the Abbey of Haly-rood-house the 16. of October : The day following hee made his entry through the City of Edinburgh with great solemnity and pompe ; with great concourse and applause of people , rejoycing to see him whom they loved heartily and dearly , as they testified by their acclamations and prayers , powred forth for his safety and welfare . After this ( on the 20. of October ) he kept a Parliament , extant in the printed Acts. Hitherto wee have seene our Earle of Morton , though not an absolute Favourite of fortune , yet so cherished by her , that howbeit shee did now and then frown on him , yet shee seemed rather to try his strength whether or not he were able to endure a storme , and ride it out with resolution , than that she meant to over-whelme him in her waves ; for the issue did ever prove advantagious to him , and he became rather a gainer than a loser by his sufferings . But now having raised him to the highest dignitie and pitch of greatnesse that a subject was capable of , according to her accustomed levitie , all of a sudden turning down that was up of her wheele , she brings him so low as to lose life and estate . There is nothing more deserves our observation , than these vicissitudes of great places , to see men of low made high , and than again falling from their height and greatnesse to become low , which is to be seen in this last Act and Catastrophe of his Tragedie , so notably as is rare to be found elsewhere . Who could and would truly discover the depth of the mysteries of these times , and tell exactly who were the chief plotters and first movers of this work , and who were the instruments and executers thereof , as he should do a piece of good service for clearing of the truth of things to posterity , & the ages to come , so do I confesse for my own part , that it is too hard a task for my self to performe , and more than I will undertake or promise to do . All that I can do is to set down the actions which are evident in grosse , and to follow such conjecturall probabilitie in the narration as my weak judgement can lead me to . We have heard how the King & Queens factions did long contend , and how Morton had ever been on the Kings side , and how in his Regencie he had so handled businesse , that they that stood for the Queen had yeelded and acknowledged the King and him as Regent . The keeping of the Castle of Edinburgh was the last Act of opposition , and with the yeelding of it , all was whisht . Lithington and Grange were taken out of the way , who were the strongest or the stoutest upholders thereof . Yet the Society was not quite broken or extinguished with them . Master John Metellane ( sometime Priour of Coldingame , and brother to Lithington ) Sir Robert Melvin ( uncle to Grange ) Pittadraw , the Bishop of Dunkell , and some others remained . These he had committed to prison for a short while ; afterward had pardoned them , and set them at liberty . They kept still their old minde , entertained mutuall friendship and correspondence , and wanted onely occasion to shew the effects of their former disposition : Especially Master John Metellane , and Sir Robert Melvin bore great hatred to Morton ; the one for putting his Nephew Grange to death , the other because he supposed Morton would have done as much to his brother , if he ( fearing so much ) had not prevented it by poysoning himself , as the common rumour was . Besides these private grudges , the publick cause did also egge them on and animate them against him ; which they never forgot , and looked upon him as the man who had beene the bane thereof . Yet they set it on foot again , by 〈◊〉 of it openly , and advancing it ( all they could ) secretly and indirectly ; using all the means they could to make all things work for the Queenes advantage . She had her Agents and Ambassadours in France , together with her Uncles ( of Guise ) and wanted not her under-hand Favourers in England , that still had their eye upon her ( as upon the rising Snnne ) whom they esteemed the hope of their Religion . Their suite now was ( who would not think it so ? ) both plausible and modest ; to joyn the mother and the sonne in an equality of government , being so near joyned in nature . It could not but be for the good of the Countrey , and make much to confirme and strengthen their title to England . Thus they said ; but how can this bee done ? He is in possession of the Crown , how can it be taken from him again ? How can he be desired to dimit ? And though he would demit , yet those of his party will never be contented that he should doe it . On the other side , Shee is living and dis-possessed ; but who that hath ever worne a Crowne , can live and bee content to want it ? What other mids then , and meane can bee found out , but association in the Crowne ? So shall both have it , and both be satisfied , a happy society , from which will flow the sonnes love , and the mothers blessing . All shall so goe well , and it will bee easie to perswade a childe ( though never so wise ) being unacquainted with such things , especially one that is so gentle , and of so towardly ▪ disposition : onely the difficulty will bee to move his old friends thereto ; they will never consent to it ; they will bee jealous and fearefull of any party or equalitie in ruling , though of never so neare and deare friends : they will choke us with that old saying , Nulla fides Regni sociis , &c. They will thinke it a diminution to the Kings authoritie , which ought not to bee admitted either in effect , or in appearance . The grounds of his Title will seeme to bee brangled and overthrowne ; also his estate will bee made thereby more unsure , and doubtfull : The match ( though with a mother ) will bee too hard for him ; shee is elder , and so wiser , and more experienced , and may soon steppe up from this equalitie to a Superioritie , by questioning her former dimission , by revoking and recalling of it , as being done in prison , and so not free , nor voluntary . Thus shall the King bee thrust out of his place , the Countrey , his old friends , Religion , and all quite undone . Morton was too old a Cat , to draw such a straw before him , or to propound any thing tending that way : wherefore their best was to make him away , that so the plot might goe on . And much more good effect would come of that one stroke : Hee was rich , hee had faire lands and houses , a faire reward of all their pains and travell . And no question , his friends that should take his part , might bee involved , and insnared with him : Especially the Earle of Angus could hardly in this case of his Uncle , so behave himselfe , but occasion might bee found against him , which would bee a faire bootie . The facilitie of compassing a businesse doth often draw men on , and doth greatly prevail in all consultations . The new factions against him were very strong , yet ●…ee kept them downe , but it was meeerly by the Kings countenance ; if that were once taken away from him , the rest would prove but easie . And now to facilitate all , there fell out such occasions , as they could have wished , or as they had made . For in September , in the yeare one thousand five hundreth seventy and nine , Mounsieur d' Obignie was come ( or brought ) home : his name , his kindred , his carriage , his commission from friends in France , his comelinesse , his observance , his person did procure him credit with the King ; and this faction did privately insinuate with him , and openly thrust him forward into the Kings favour ; and put him out of conceit of Morton ; and indeed quite alienated him from him , and so by him the King , whose eare hee now had ; for Morton being such an adversary to the Queene , and so to France , Obignie to doe the Queene , and to doe France service , to pleasure the holy League ( himselfe being a Papist ) and to gaine the good will of this faction by whom hee was to rise to some great place about the King , was easily induced to promove their plotte and malice against him . Neither was there great difficultie in it : hee had lost many friends , offended all sorts of men ; the Burrowes , the Ministerie , and who so doth zealously affect them , so farre as that if they were not his enemies , they were but cold friends , and such as would bee but spectatours , and no wayes actours for him . There fell out also ( about this time ) in October ( 1580. ) an accident , which did him much hurt , and made for their purpo●…e . The Lord Ruthven having beene in Kincarn ( a house of the Earle of Montrose ) at the marriage of the Earle of Marre , as he returned to Perth , his way lying neare to Diplin ( which belonged to the Lord Olyphant ) and there being enmitie , and deadly fewd betwixt Olyphant and Ruthven : Ruthven notwithstanding , rode that way in view of Diplin . Olyphant tooke this as done in contempt of him , and therefore issuing forth with some horsemen , and some fire locks , followed them , and came upon them so unexpectedly , and with such advantage of weapous , that Ruthvens men fled presently , and their Lord was forced to doe the like . Onely one Alexander Stuart ( of the house of Traquaire , and a Kinsman of Ruthvens ) stayed behind the rest , partly to keep off the pursuers , partly to speake with Olyphant in fair termes , and was slain by a shot , from one that knew him not , sore against Oliphants minde , and to his great griefe and discontentment . The Lord Ruthven , seeking by order of law to repair his credit , and to be revenged for the killing of his friend , causes summon Oliphant to answer criminally before the Justice Generall . This Oliphant had married Margaret Douglas , daughter to William Douglas of Logh-leven , and now being pursued upon his life , was assisted by his father in law . The Earle of Morton would gladly have agreed the parties , but the fact being recent , and the Lord Ruthven ( together with the friends of the Gentleman that was slain ) having received such an affront and indignity , there was no possibility to take it away , save by law . Wherefore Morton joyned with the party that was pursued for his life , which hath ever beene accounted most Noble , most tolerable , and free from exception or quarrelling . Besides , Oliphant had not commanded his servant to shoote , neither did hee allow or approve ( but was sory for it ) in his heart ; but hee thought hee could not with his honour deliver one who followed him , and had done this rash fact , in and for his service , but was bound to defend him all hee could , and protect him from all danger , and harme , according to his power . Notwithstanding , of this , Ruthven was mightily displeased with Morton , for countenancing , and assisting Olyphant against him , and Master John Metellane , and Sir Robert Melvine ( who tooke part with Ruthven ) laid hold of the occasion , and blew the bellowes so , that they brought him to that point of unkindenesse , that hee could very well have beene contented to see Morton reduced to such an estate and condition , as that hee might neede his helpe , and bee sensible of the losse of so steadable and usefull a friend , as hee tooke himselfe to be . Wherefore , when hee understood that his enemies were plotting against him ( either for that he knew not that they aimed at no lesse then his death and finall overthrow , or if hee did know so much , because hee thought hee could give them a stop when hee pleased , and hinder them from attaining that point of their aime ) hee suffered the course to goe on , and perhaps helped it forward . The name of Stuart were also offended with him for assisting one who was accused of the killing a Stuart , and all this was aggreaged and aggravated by those of his opposite faction . Besides this , hee had shewed that hee was not well pleased with the Courtship and favour which Mounsieur D' Obignie had with the King ; because there was a generall suspition and feare , that hee was imployed , and would labour to corrupt and pervert him in his Religion . There was with Obignie , one Monbirneau ( who was thought to have been an actor and executioner of the Massacre in France ) extreamely dissolute in his conversation , and therefore much hated , feared and abhorred of all men , which did reflect upon Obignie for his entertaining , and familiarity with him . The Ministers spake and preached openly and plainly against them both , and the English Embassadour ( Sir William Bowes ) desired Monbirneau to be removed off the Counsell as such an one , and when it was refused , he likewise refused to deliver his message , or to shew his Commission , for so he had been commanded by the Queen and State of England . Morton withdrew himselfe as discontented , and retired to Dalkeith , either for dislike of the present estate of things , or out of feare and doubte of some danger , or inconvenient , or for both ; neither did hee come to Court or Counsell , but when hee was sent for by the King. This disliking of their wayes , made them to dislike the more of him , and his feare caused them to feare him more also : dislike and feare increased their hatred , and hastned their resolution to overthrow him . The way was laid , which was to charge him with the murther of the late King , the accuser ( either made choice of by them , or who did willingly offer himselfe ) was James Stuart ( sonne to the Lord Ochletr●…e ) a bold , venturous and aspiring young man. And so the last of December he was sent for , and being set in Counsell , he was accused by James to his face . The crime was , of being airt and pairt of the murther of the late King Henry . Being greatly moved herewith , he arose from the table , and purged himselfe with great vehemency , as innocent thereof : and offered to abide a legall triall , not onely of his Peeres , but of any Gentlemen whatsoever , though he himselfe were an Earle , and had been Regent . Hereupon hee was confined to his lodging , where he abode all the next day , which was the first of January , and the Sabbath day . So much leasure he had to bethinke himselfe of his case , and what were best for him to doe : he might have seen that it was a quarrell pickt against him of malice , seeing the crime laid to his charge was so hainous , as none but his mortall enemies would have broched , and such as sought his utter ruine . And hee might know that innocency is not alwayes a sure warrant and defence against such : and that it was dangerous to fall into their hands . On the other side , to avoid and shun a triall were halfe a confession of the crime , and would make him seem guilty ; nay it would make him truely guilty of contempt , disobedience and rebellion , which might ( perhaps ) bee the thing they sought ; through feare to drive him to some rebellious act , and so to involve him in a true crime while he sought to eschew a fals accusation ; his friends & followers advised him to take the first way , but he himselfe resolved on the second : for he supposed that they could not convict him by law , and that they would not proceed against him without law , having ( as he thought ) friends that would not suffer it , especially the Earle of Angus , being at liberty , and out of their power . But he had forgotten the old maxim of his predecessors , That it was better to heare the Larke sing , then the Mouse peep ; and their Proverb , Loose and living . On the second of January , hee had a warrant sent to him to enter himselfe prisoner in the Castle of Edinburgh , which he obeyed immediately . As hee went up the street , accompanied onely with his owne domesticks , James Stuart ( his accuser ) was coming downe , and as he passed by , hee said to him ( in an insolent and insulting manner ) fare well my Lord , goe on . His servants would fain have made an end of the accuser , if not of the accusation , but he would not suffer them by any meanes , but held on his way toward the Castle ( without replying any thing ) and so entred there a prisoner . This obedience of his is liable to bee diversly thought of by diverse , and is diversely censured by men ( according to that saying ) Laudatur ab his , culpatur ab illis , it is commended by some , and discommended by others . They blame his wisedome , that he should have trusted , and relied so much upon his innocency , as to have put his life into the hands of his enemies , who used the colour and shadow of the Kings authority , for their owne private ends , and to fulfill their owne malice , and revenge . Others commend him , that being innocent , he obeyed the King , and submitted himselfe to the lawes . The event gave judgement for the first , and all men since are of the former opinion ; yet it may be he did not rely meerly on his innocency ; and that he looked not to have had such a number of enemies , having never deserved such hatred of any ; and that he thought the Nobility would never give way to such extremity , which was an ill precedent and preparative against themselves . But however , God had his worke to bring to passe , and meant to humble him this way ; and therefore his wisedome ( which appeared at other times ) did now fail him , so that hee was confounded in his discourse and reason . There can nothing else bee said or alledged for this grosse errour in so wise a man. This is the first evident step of his falling . They might now doe with him what they pleased , and yet scarce all that they pleased , with safety and security . His Nephew the Earle of Angus was at liberty , and remained at Dalkeith , who being sent for to come to Court , refused to come ; yea , though he were charged under pain of treason by a Herauld to come to the King , yet he would not obey , but was declared rebell . Also Mortons keeper Alexander Ereskene ( master of Marre ) being an honest and kinde hearted Noble man , they could not use any violence toward him , so long as he was in his custody . Therefore they thought it best to send him to Dumbarton : and that they might doe it the more safely , they set forth Proclamations , discharging all men that had any relation to him , or that they suspected to favour him , to come within foure miles of any place where the King was , or should happen to be . So in the 17. or 18. of January , he was brought forth of the Castle of Edinburgh to be carried to Dumbarton . There it did appeare , how the change of mens fortune doth change the minds and affections of people toward them . When Morton dimitted his office and authority of Regent , none of the Citizens would take norice of him , or looke toward him : Now that hee suffers for a good cause ( as they esteemed it , to wit , opposing Obignie , and his courses ) they flock to him , and accompany him out of the town in such numbers and multitude , that his keepers were afraid of them . And that the rather , because some of his well-wishers had ( some nights before ) called the Captain of the Castle , and desired him not to deliver him , or to let him come out ; and had threatned , that if hee should deliver him , it should be remembred as an act of hostilitie , and hee reputed and used as an enemy . They that were his convoy were commanded , if any should come to rescue him from them , that they should kill him rather then suffer him to escape . The Queen of England by her Embassadour , Master Randolfe , interceeded for him , and told the King and Councell , that she understood that hee was a true and good Subject , a worthy Noble man , and free of that he was accused of . Shee desired that he might be tried by an assise ( or jury ) and that his enemy ( knowne to be so ) Mounsier d' Obignie ( now made Earle of Lennox ) who was also an enemy to the reformed Religion ( as being a Papist ) might bee removed off the Counsell . It was answered , that the King was not so farre bound to any forraign Prince , as to change his Counsellers at their request , or to trie his Subjects but where and when he pleased . The Embassadour discontent with this answer , gives up all bond of friendship , and having denounced warre , returned into his owne Countrey the 27. of March , 1581. Hereupon a taxation was imposed , and a company levied of 1000. foot , and some horsemen , to be a Guard for the Kings person . James Stuart ( the accuser ) was preferred to be a privie Counseller , is made Baron of Bothwell-haugh ( say the notes ) Lord Hamilioun , Earle of Arrain , and Captain of the Guard ; with most ample Commission to apprehend whomsoever he suspected , and to banish and punish at his pleasure ; especially any that favoured the Earle of Morton , of whatsoever degree , ranke or quality . But the English intended rather to threaten then to make war indeed ; and they knowing that well enough , went on with their intended projects against Morton . He being still kept prisoner in Dumbarton , learned a lesson there , which he had not well learned till then . Let the prophane be silent , and let mockers leave off their mocking , and let all mortall men know that there is a happinesse which consists not in honour or riches ; that there is a God who disposeth of all things , who is All-sufficient , and who is able alone to satisfie and content the mind : few there are that know , or consider it , but when t●…ey are brought to such a point ; and happy is he that can doe it then . He had heard of it before , and beleeved it , but had not taken it so fully to heart , nor felt it by experience . Now he sees , now he feels and findes it really , and experimentally . He contemns the world , and his riches are vile in his eyes , his glory vanity , and all his delights madnesse . He findes that one thing is necessary , and is all that is of man , which is , to reverence God. Hee sees his over-sight , in that he had been so slacke and carelesse thereof before : now he goes about it as he can , and labours to amend his fault ; hee reads the Scriptures , and meditates on them ; he makes his use , and findes comfort therein : he sees his sinfulnesse , and repents him thereof ; sees Gods mercifulnesse , and layes hold on it . He acknowledges himselfe to have been miserable when he seemed to swim in happinesse , and that now hee was truly happy when he seemed overcharged with miserie , in respect that God had given him leasure to meditate and thinke of his end , and time and grace to repent , while being sequestrate from all worldly affaires , and restrained by his imprisonment , his minde had full scope and libertie to raise it selfe to those better and higher thoughts of the life to come , and of eternity : wherein he found such contentment and resolution , that now death was no more death to him , nor terrible , and that all the horrour thereof was swallowed up with the hope of those eternall joyes and pleasures which last for evermore . Thus being prepared for that last act , he was sent for to give proofe how well he could practise and make use of this lesson . For on the 24. of May the Earles of Arran and Montrose , with some companies of horse and foot , brought him from Dumbartan to Edinburgh the 27. to Robert Gourleyes lodging , which was one of the strongest in the Citie . Before they tooke their journey ( on the 22. day ) proclamation was made , commanding all that favoured him ( in generall ) to depart out of the towne , and not to come within ten miles of the King and his Court ; and particularly some 52. Citizens by name were expressed , and strictly charged to goe forth of the Citie . After foure dayes respite ( the first of June ) he was called to the Tolbooth , and there empannelled , and convicted by a Jurie , aud found guilty of the late Kings murther . The sentence was given out by the Earle of Montrose , who was Chancellour of the Assise , and it is said to have beene pronounced in these termes ; The Jurie ( or Assise ) doth finde him guilty of being airt and part of concealing the murther of our Soveraigne ( King James his father ) the late King Henry . When Morton heard it , he repeated these words twice over , Airt and pairt , airt and pairt , and without speaking farther , he held his peace . It is reported that the Jurie did finde him onely guilty of concealing the murther , and that Arran and Montrose , thinking that to be onely guilty of concealing was not sufficient matter of condemning him , did ●…oist in these words ( airt and pairt ) to give it the greater sound , and to make it be thought and understood , as if he had beene found to be airt and pairt ( that is , deviser , contriver , plotter , and part ▪ ker or accessary ) to the Kings murther , whereas he was onely found to have concealed it . This made one that heard it , and perceived the sophistry thereof , to say , that they had stollen his head from his shoulders by sophistry . His known enemies ( the Lord Seaton and Wauchton ) were of his jurie , yet it is thought they did him no wrong in their verdicts . But however , it shewed partiall dealing , in that they would not suffer them to be set aside when he excepted against them as knowne enemies . Being asked at his death what he thought of the judgement ; he answered soberly , that he would leave them to God and their owne conscience : but he perceived that whether he had beene guilty or guiltlesse , as Stephen , or Judas , all had beene one , his death had beene concluded before ; for his lawfull and legall exceptions were not admitted , his enemies were on his Jurie , ( naming the two former ) and such as were partiall , and not indifferent , who had given partiall counsell against him , by name the Earle of Argyle . He added also that it was not his death alone that would content them , and that they would not stay there , others should be put to it as well as hee , he was but made a precedent , and preparative to make way for the rest : the cause was the maine thing they aimed at . However it were , whether the sentence were thus involved and wrested , or if it were plaine and cleare ; whether it were indeed so given out by the Jury , or if it were thus patched out by Arran and Montrose , he was conveyed backe againe to his lodging as a condemned man. There he carried himselfe after his wonted manner , his countenance was no wayes cast downe , or changed , he supped cheerfully , and slept soundly , without any apperance or shew of feare , or solicitousnesse . About three of the clocke in the morning hee arose and wrote letters ( for the space of three houres ) with his owne hand to the King , and afterward laid him downe againe and slept till nine . These † Letters were sent by the Ministers who came to visit him , but Arran and Lennox would not suffer them to be received . When he was up , Master Walter Balcanquell , and John Durie ( two of the Ministers of Edinburgh ) came to him , and had long conference with him , which is set downe at length in the Historie of Scotland , written by Francis Boteville , called Thin , an Englishman and joyned to Hollinsheds Chronicle , so that he who desires to know it , may reade it there . The summe of it is his confession concerning such things as they questioned him of , 1. And first concerning the murthering of the King , he said he was neither airt nor pairt thereof , and that being prest by the Earle Bothwell , he would never consent to it . And although ( say the notes ) Bothwell alledged that the Queene had determined it , and divers Noblemen had given their consent under their hand-writing , and had sent to him to desire him to put to his hand also ; yet he answered resolutely , that he would in no wise meddle in it , nor be guilty of innocent bloud . As for the Queen ( said he ) though it be so , yet women will say and gain-say , she may in her anger doe or say that which afterward she will repent her of . Nay , when Bothwell promised to bring her consent thereto under her hand-writing , yet he refused to joyne with him upon any termes ; and to avoyd his importunitie , he passed over to Saint Andrewes to vifit the Earle of Angus , who was then a Student in the New colledge there ; neither did he see or meet with Bothwell after that , untill such time as the fact was committed . 2. As for poysoning the Earle of Athole at Stirling , he said he was neither author of it ( if he were poysoned ) nor any wise accessary or conscious to it ; that he detested and abhorred all such formes of dealing even with enemies , and was sorry to think that so base , foule , and wicked practice should creep into this Countrey , which was already guilty of too many , too common other sins of its owne : he said also that he was not such an enemy to Athole , as that he would have done him any hurt , though he had found him lying asleep by the way side . 3. Touching the Earle of Lennox , he said , he never wished him any hurt , so farre was he from conspiring against him . Onely it grieved him that he knew the estate of this Countrey no better , and that he saw not what danger the King was in , and that he was induced by perswasion to bring home such as were enemies to the true Religion , which he purposed to have let him understand , and hoped to have advised him better , when they had beene better acquainted , and more intimately familiar . 4. And as for carrying the King to England , he said , he would not have done it for a world , unlesse it had beene to have made him King of England : that there was never such a motion made to him directly nor indirectly by the Queene , or any other in England or Scotland : that he never had any pension of her . 5. As touching his setting up and maintaining the estate of Bishops ( whereof there had ensued great debate and contention betwixt him and the Ministery ) he said , it did not proceed of any ill minde ; of any malice , or contempt of them , or their callings , but meerly out of want of better knowledge , thinking that form of government to be most conforme to the rules of policie , and to be fittest for the times . That if he had then knowne better , he would have done otherwise , and that he had intention ( if he had lived ) to have made amends . 6. Concerning his incontinencie , and worldly mindednesse , he freely acknowledged and confessed it , seriously repented , and craved God pardon for it , and said , he firmely beleeved to obtaine it : that ●…e saw mercy , and had found more grace during the time of his trouble , then ever hee had done all his life before . 7. For his detaining of some Citizens of Edinburgh in prison , he said , he had not done it out of any spleene , or private quarrell against the men ; but the matter of bringing in Bullion being then in hand , and he being informed that these men did hinder it , he thought it his best course to commit them till such time as the businesse were done : Wherein , if he had wronged them , he was sorrie , and craved them pardon , & forgivenes . His counsell to the Earle of Angus ( his Nephew ) was doubtfull : for he said he durst not advise him in any particular for the present , because he thought it would endanger his life if he should come to Court ; and not to come ( if he were commanded ) would hazard his estate . His best were to use what meanes he could to obtaine the Kings favour and leave , that ( life and lands safe ) he might serve God , and him , in a private retired manner , which he would wish him to doe in all humility , and to submit himselfe and all to the Kings will and pleasure . To the King ( his master ) with all submission ; yet in the name and fear of God , he would exhort him to beware of Papists , either profest , known or suspected , who ( as he thought ) were become too too familiar with him : that he would continue in the true Religion , and fear of God , & entertain in his company such as loved it , according as he had bin bred and brought up , & not to make defection from it , or slide back , else it could not be well with him : he feared there was danger , which men should see when he was gone . He remembred the admonition which master Knox gave him when he came to visit him on his death bed ( or a little before ) being newly made Regent : God hath ( said Knox ) blessed you with many blessings , he hath given you wisedome , riches and friends , and now he hath preferred you to the government of this Countrey ; use these things well , and better than hitherto you have done ; alwayes to his glory who hath given them you ▪ first by advancing the Gospel , and maintenance of the Ministers , and the whole Church ; next , by procuring the good and welfare of the King , the Countrey , and all good subjects ; which if you do not , God shall rob you of them with shame and ignominie . This he spake ( said he ) and this I finde now , yet I doubt not , but God will be mercifull unto me . He was much with them in prayer , and very earnest to have their aid & assistance therein ; whereof he acknowledged that he received great comfort . He reasoned of the natural fear of death , which sticks and remains in men , even though they have assurance of the forgivenesse of their sins ; wherein hee declared his own sense , and the collections he had made in his reading , since his going to Dumbartan . He said , that in the History of the Bible , he had observed Gods wonderfull mercy toward the children of Israel ; who when they sinned against him , he chastised them ; when they repented , he forgave them ; and though they sinned again , and were corrected again , yet when they cryed to him again , he forgave them again , he hoped so of himself , that God would forgive him also . He shewed them a Book he had about him , which had been sent to him by the Lady Ormeston , when hee was first committed , which he had read , and made good use of it : it was M. Bradfords Meditation of Death ; hee caused M. Balcanquell to read a passage or two of it , ( which he had chiefly noted ) and as he read , Morton discoursed thereof to his own comfort , and their great satisfaction and contentment . He professed , that now he heard with other eares , and read with another minde and sense than he had done in former times . This Book he sent back to the Lady by Master James Lowson , with many thanks , acknowledging he had been bettered by it . When break-fast was brought in , he desired them to take part with him , & spake very chearfully to them , telling them what a difference there was betwixt a man troubled with cares , and him that is resolved and free from them . The last night ( said he ) before I came to my triall , I could not sleep nor take rest for thinking how to make my defences ; but all this night I sleeped very sound , having 〈◊〉 to trouble me , but to make my peace with God. After noon , M. James 〈◊〉 , M. John Davison , and divers others of the Ministerie came to him . There he embraced M. John Davison , and said to him , You wrote a Book , for which I was angry with you , but I never meant any ill to you , forgive me M. Davison was so moved herewith , that he could not refrain from weeping . Then he repeated again before them the same things which we have set down before . The Ministery hearing that the King was otherwayes informed of his Confession , than was true , sent John Durie , David Ferguson , and John Brand to his Majesty , who informed him rightly , and related things as they were . They being returned , his Keeper ( William Stuart , as I take it , brother to Arran ) required him to come forth to go to the place of execution : To whom he said , They have troubled mee much to day with worldly businesse , wherefore I supposed they ▪ would have given me this nights leisure to have thought of things which concerne my soul : But his Keeper replied , I think they will delay no longer , for all things are ready . If it be so ( said Morton ) so am I too , I thank my God. And so ( after a prayer made by one of the Ministers ) he went down the stairs without any farther stay . The Earle of Arran met him by the way , and brought him back to the chamber again , willing him to stay till his Confession were set down in writing , that hee might signe it with his own hand . But he , and the Ministers that were present with him , entreated that he might not be any more troubled with that matter , seeing they had all heard it suffi●…iently . Then Arran desired that he would forgive him for what he had done , seeing he had no particular against him . He answered , that it was not time to remember quarrels ; he forgave him and all others , as he desired they would forgive him . So he went to the Scaffold very resolutely , and repeated the same things in audience of the people , which he had spoken before in private . He added moreover : The King ( sayes he ) shall this day lose a good servant , who dieth professing the Gospell taught now in Scotland : and though I have not walked worthy of that profession ( as by the grace of God I should have done , if I had lived longer , to the hazarding of my Life , Lands and all ) yet am I perswaded of Gods mercie in Jesus Christ. And here I charge you all to continue therein , and to maintaine the same to the uttermost of your power , and God shall blesse you , otherwayes you shall not escape his punishment . Then while the prayer was conceived by Master James Lowson , he fell down all along flat on his face : during which he uttered great signes of being mightily moved , which he expressed in his sighes and groanes , which many of the beholders saw evidently did not proceed from fear , but from the spirit of grace working powerfully in his hea●…t . Prayer being ended , he stood up , and his friends came to take their leave of him , and after he had bidden them farewell , he saluted the Ministers , and took them all severally by the hand , and bade them farewell in the Lord. After all was done , he went without fear or dismayednesse , and laid his neck upon the block , crying continually that happie song , Lord Jesus receive my spirit , till the axe ( of the Maiden , which he himself had caused make after the patterne which he had seen in Halifax in Yorkshire ) falling upon his neck , put an end to his life , and t●… note together . His body was carried to the Tolbooth , and burie●…●…ecretly in the night in the Gray-friers , his head was affixed on the Gate of the City . Thus he died the 2. of June 1581. proudly ( said his enemies ) and Romane-like as he had lived : constantly , patiently , humbly and Christian-like , said the Pastors , who were beholders , and eare and eye-witnesses of all he said and did . These outward motions being so like to other , are hardly discerned but by a skilfull and unpartiall eye . Wherefore the judgement and testimony of the Pastors deserves best credit ; they being best able to distinguish nature from grace , and being freest from prejudice and partiality . His enemies censure may justly bee suspected as coming from that same disposition which moved them to plot and work his death . And certainly if we observe and consider his whole carriage and discourse , during the time of his imprisonment , and at the very point of his execution , he must be voide of all charity that doth not judge the best of his confession , profession , and Christian disposition . So that it seems to be more than humane hatred and enmity , to be thus affected toward an enemie after his death , to kill him again by an uncharitable construction of his devotions , and piety towards his God. Livor post fata quiescit . Envie ceaseth after death ▪ and so let it do toward him . If a man would see a pattern of one , exercised in all the changes & vicissitudes of fortune , who had gone through & tried all the estates and conditions of humane life ; let him cast his eye and look upon our Earl of Morton , in his child-hood , in his riper years & m●…nly estate , and in his old age , in peace and in warre , in private and publick employments . In every thing he took in hand , in every estate and condition , he acquit himself with credit , honour ; and even admiration . When he was a serving-man , he was industrious , carefull and faithfull ; when he came to an estate , and was a Nobleman , he behaved himself as if he had been bred such from his infancie . In Court , he acted the Courtier ▪ in Councell , a States-man , abroad in England , being sent thither Ambassadour , he approved himself to both Nations , and gained great reputation of sufficiencie . While he enjoyed the favour of his Princesse , he was not puffed up ; and being in disgrace and banished , he was not casten down . He was a faithfull Colleague and fellow-governour with others ; and when he came to be sole and supream , this Countrey never enjoyed greater peace , and a more flourishing Regencie . Being returned to the condition of a private Nobleman , he obeyed as well as before he had commanded . And last of all , when he was accused , condemned and executed , he shewed himself to be himself , and a good Christian. He was well skilled , as in politick government , so in oeconomie , from the shrub to the scepter , from planting of Cabbage in his Garden , to the weelding of the Sword and Scepter in the seat of Justice . The smallest and meanest points of husbandry did not escape him , and the highest and deepest points of State were not above his reach . So that the saying of the Hystorian concerning Cato Major ( In hoc viro tanta vis animi ingeniique fuit , ut quocunque loco natus esset , fortunam sibi ipse facturus fuissevideretur ) Is no lesse true , and mayas wel be applyed to Morton . And that also which followes ; Nulla ars neque privatae , neque publicae rei gerendae ei defuit , urbanas , rusticasque , res pariter callebat . Hee was slow of speech by a naturall stayednesse and composed gravity . He was of a middle stature , rather square than tall , having the hair of his head and beard of a yellowish flaxeri . His face was full and large ; his countenance majesticall , grave and Princely ; he was affable and courteous to all , yet so as to keep bold encroachers aloofe , and so familiar as not to forget to keep his distance . He was given to gather riches , yet without oppression or sordidnesse and basenesse : For hee was liberall upon occasion , and not unkinde or unmindefull of his friends . Of which disposition I remember this instance ; when John Halden ( of Gleneagles ) with his friends of the house of Marre ( especially the Abbot of Driebrugh ) came to him to agree with him for his wardship ( hee being Regent ) told them that hee had bestowed it on Isabel Hume daughter to Sir David , and sister to Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , and that hee might take her and it together , which hee did accordingly . This came meerely of himself having never been spoken to , and when there was none that belonged to the Gentlewoman near him , to motion or suggest it to him . He was also calme and not easily moved to anger , and apt to forgive and forget injuries or contentions , that had been betwixt him and any other . This appeared in his carriage toward Master Knox , who had used him roughly , and rebuked him sharply for divers things , but especially for his labouring to set up and maintaine the estate of Bishops . For howsoever he took it hardly for the time , yet when Master Knox lay a dying , he went and visited him , and after he was dead , was present at his buriall ; where hee gave him this honourable and ingenuous testimonie ; Here lyest thou ( said he ) who ●…ert never afraid of the face of man in delivering thy message from GOD. Hee set a foot a great good work , and would ( no question ) have seen it perfected , if hee had brooked his Regencie a while longer , which was the reducing of our Lawes into a more easie forme and method , than now they are . The care of this was committed to , and the task laid upon Sir James Balfoure , and Master John Skeene Clerk-Register , and Master of the Rols . The work ( as I am informed ) was well advanced , but when he quit his authority , they left off any further proceeding in it . And I have heard since some question it , whether or not it would have done good to the subjects , as if it wer●… to be doubted whether it were better to have some order than none at all . So apt are men to calumniate any thing that hinders their particular emolument , or limites their unwarrantable power , and curbs them from doing what they list . Hee kept a Concubine or two , because of his Ladies being distracted and frantick , and was even too much set to heap up treasure . Yet his care was , that his enemies should not be enriched by it ▪ and his luck was answerable to his care . For those on whom he would have bestowed them ( if hee had had power and opportunitie to distribute them according to his minde ) by good fortune lighted on it ; I know not if they got all of it ▪ or if it were divided according to that proportion , which he perhaps would have observed . James Richiso●… of Smeeton ( his brother-in-law ) got a share of them , having been trusted with the keeping thereof ; Jannet Sharpe his Lemmon another share , James Douglas of Spot got some part thereof ; and some very small portion ( as is thought in respect of the whole summe ) came to the hands of Archbald Earle of Angus , after his returne from his first banishment . A notable example of the uncertainty of these corruptible riches , and of worldly treasure , which cannot be preserved from the digging through of the thief , the eating and consuming of the moth or canker-worme , or the dispersing and scattering of an unfaithfull hand and hea●…t . Though he imployed himself much about it , and thought it a great point of wisedome thus to store up wealth ; yet at his death hee saw and confessed it to be but vanity and folly . If wee admit Morton to be a judge or witnesse ( and what better either judge or witnesse can we finde ? ) he will decide the question betwixt the two ( both self-pleasing ) parties , which do challenge ( each to himself , and derogates from the other ) that high honour and title of wisedome ; I mean betwixt him that seeks after , and labours for worldly honour , dignity and riches : and him that having his minde raised higher and pitched upon better things , slights these earthly things as trash , not worthy of his thoughts or care . The worldling cals , and thinks him a foole , and he esteems no better of the worldling ; and each laughs the other to scorne . Who then shall be judge or witnesse ? Seeing all are parties ; and there is no man but is either of the one side or of the other . Certainly , we may judge best by the confession of the parties themselves . Of which the last never yeelded , never gaine-said or be-lyed their assertion ; while they live they avouch it , and at their death they do confirme it much more . Though Chrysippus tormenter do torture them , though the world ( for the want of it ) do afflict them with contempt and despising , still they stand fast , and stick to their point unshaken and unmoved . The worldlings , by the contrary , sometimes while they flourish in prosperity , ever when they are in adversity : Sometimes while they live and are in health , ever when they lye in dying , confesse against themselves , and cals all their labour and pains about it folly and vanity . So did Morton amongst others , which the wise will lay to heart , and make their use of it . Jacobus Duglassius , Mortonius Comes , Prorex pro JACOBO Sexto , Edinburgi securi percussus Anno 1581. Hunc specta Heroem , celso cui spirat ab or●… Majestas , toto & pectore rarus honos . Augustos inter terrarum lumina , reges Pro Rege , & Domino , regia sceptra tulit . Consilium , imperium , virtus , facundia , census , Quaeque homines capiunt , quaeque dedêre dii , Unus cuncta fuit . Nihil ad fastigia summa . Defuit , aeternum si sua fata d●…rent . Sed viden ' ut subito fatorum turbine versa Omnia , & in praeceps pondere pressasuo ? Discite mortales mortalia temnere , & illa Quaerere , quae miseris non rapit aura levis . Joh. Johnstonus in Heroibu●… . James Douglas Earle of Morton , Regent , beheaded at Edinburgh , 1581. Behold this Heros how his looks be grac't With Majestie , what honour 's in his breast ! How high his port may to the world appear ! He rules a King , and doth his Scepter bear . Counsell , commanding , and perswasive Art , What ever men injoy or gods impart , Is found in him : If Fortune did remain Constant , no greater height he need obtain . But ah ! what sudden change is here ! this state Falne with its own weight lyes opprest by Fate . Observe it well , and learn those goods to prise Which never can decay ; the rest despise . Of Archbald ( the third of that name ) and ninth Earle of Angus . NOw we come to Archbald himself ( the third bearing the name of Archbald ) son to David , as hath been said . He was thrice married ; first to Margaret Ereskin , daughter to John Earle of Marre , who was Regent of Scotland immediatly before Morton . Shee was a beautifull , chaste , and vertuous Lady . Shee lived with him but few years , and died without children . After her , he was married to Margaret Leslie , daughter to the Earle of Rothus . She lived with him the space of years , after which he was divorced from her for her adultery . She likewise had no children . His third wife was Jeane Lyon , daughter to the Lord Glames ( Chancellour ) and Relict of Robert Douglas of Logh-leven . She bare to him a daughter after his decease ( named Margaret ) who died about the age of fifteen years a maid unmarried . He was bred and brought up with his Uncle Morton , as wee have said , who was his Tutor and Guardian . He studied in S. Andrews in the New Colledge with Master John Douglas Provest of that Colledge , and Rector of the Universitie , till he was fifteen years of age . After that , he lived at Court with his Uncle , having with him his Pedagogue Master John Provaine , who endeavoured to instruct him in the Latine tongue , and taught him his Logicks & Rhetoricks , but with such successe as is customable to youth and Nobilitie ; nature , counsell , and example drawing them rather to the exercises of the body , which are more agreeable to their inclination , and are esteemed more fit and proper for their place . Whereas Letters are thought onely necessary and usefull for mean men , who intend to live by them , and make profession of some Art or Science for their maintenance , but no wayes either suitable or requisite in Noblemen , and such as are of any eminent rank or degree . For these they are judged to be too base , and he that affects them , pedantick a●…d of a mean spirit . Nay most men do accompt the studie and knowledge of them prejudiciall , hurtfull , and no small let and impediment to politick activenesse , and that it doth abate the courage of the minde and vigour of action , which is requisite for their charge and calling of being States-men and Warriours . A perverse and pernitious Tenent , and farre contrary to the practice of the most famous Captains , and Princes in all ages ; such as were Julius Caesar , Scipio Africanus , Alexander the Great , and Pompey called the Great also ; of Trajane , Antonius , Charlemaigne ; and almost of all the Grecian Worthies . And yet ( we heare ) that the Nobility ( in France especially ) accompt it a reproach to be called or esteemed learned , and deeme it honourable to be illiterate and ignorant . Much good may this honourable ignorance do them , ere any wise-man envie it . As for the Earle of Angus , sore did he repent him of this neglect , and greatly did he blame himself for it . Especially in the time of his last banishment , during which he laboured to have repaired that losse and over sight of his youth , by reading and hearing read to him Latine authours of all sorts , both Historians and others ; chiefly ●…us and Tremellius translation of the Scripture , which he took great pleasure and delight in . And though the defect of practice in his youth could not be altogether and fully supplyed , yet such was his naturall ju●…gement , that in expressing of his minde either by word or writ , none c●…ld do it more judiciously and sensibly ; and in dictating of Letters or any other thing , he even equalled ( if not over-matched ) those who would challenge to be the greatest and most skilfull Artistes therein . This was well known , and ingenuously acknowledged , and witnessed by Chancellour Metellane ( of honourable memorie ) who having lighted upon some letters of his written with his own hand , so well conceived and penned , that some who heard them read , supposed they had not been of his own penning , but that he had onely transcribed them , that they might seem to be his own ; he on the contrary affirmed ( and it was true ) that they were of his penning , and that he did seldome use any mans help that way , being himself very sufficient and able to discharge it . Concerning his actions in the time of his uncles Regencie , wee have spoken of them above in his life ( as ▪ the fittest place for them to be remembred in ) and we need not repeat them here . After his death , finding no sure footing for him in Scotland ( amongst these who were authours of it , and would seek to secure themselves from all revenge thereof by making him away in like manner ) being commanded by the King , and summoned in his name to come to Court , he retired into England . There hee was kindly received , and honourably entertained by the bountifull liberality of that worthie Queen Elizabeth ; partly in memorie of his uncle , but no lesse for his own sake , being of such great hope and expectation , conceived by the appearance of his present vertues , his wisedome , discretion , & towardlinesse , which made him acceptable to all , and begot love and favour both from her Majesties self , and her Councellours and Courtiers that then guided the State ; Such as Sir Robert Dudley ( Earle of Licester ) Sir Francis Walsinghame Secretary ; and more especially , he procured the liking of him who is ever to bee remembred with honour , Sir Philip Sidney I mean ; like disposition , in curtesie , of nature , equality of age and years , did so knit their hearts together , that Sir Philip failed not ( as often as his affaires would permit him ) to visit him , in so much that he did scarce suffer any one day to slip , whereof hee did not spend the most part in his company . He was then in travell , or had brought forth rather ( though not polished and refined it as now it is ) that his so beautifull and universally accepted birth , his Arcadia . Hee delighted much to impart it to Angus , and Angus took as much pleasure to be partaker thereof . There were with him at this time in England , of the name of Douglas , James Lord Torthorrell , and Sir George his brother ; two sonnes of Mortons , James of Spot , and Archbald of Pittendrigh : Also James of Maines , and Sir George of Langnidderie . There were besides these ( of note ) onely John Carmichael and his sonnes , together with Hugh Carmichael : the rest were but his ordinary servants and dependers . He resided openly at Court , being no Rebell , and not convicted or guiltie of any crime committed against his Prince or Countrey . No such thing was laid to his charge by his enemies ; otherwayes the receiving and entertaining of him had been a breach of the peace betwixt the Kingdomes . All that could be alledged was , that he had withdrawn himself from the furie of his enemies . And yet , as if he had been a Rebell and forfeited , they intrometted with his rents and estate for their own use . He spent his time there , in learning to ride great horses , and handling of his Armes and Weapons , together with using such courtly and manlie exercises as became his age and place . But above all , he was carefull to observe the Government of the Countrey , and Policie of that State and Kingdome ; making his own use thereof for his bettering , both in Christianity and civill prudencie . He looked with an heedfull eye upon mens wisedome , and through that , upon Gods working by their wisedome ; he noted the actions of those who were the guiders of that State , Court and Countrey , saw their aimes and designes ; and comparing them with his own affaires , and things fallen ▪ out at home , he called to minde what had befallen his Uncle Morton ; who ( like them ) had no lesse flourished , but was soon cut down and withered : who had been so powerfull and honoured but a little before , yet in a moment ( as it were ) was overthrown and trod under foot . His thoughts also reflecting upon himself , and his own condition , how hee was forced to forsake his own Countrey , and depend upon the estimation of strangers ; that though for the present he were somewhat respected , yet it was uncertain how long hee should be so , no longer than they should think it profitable for their own estate , and conduceable to their ends . From hence raising his minde to the contemplation of all humane affairs , and of all mor●… , men 〈◊〉 all 〈◊〉 even of Princes themselves , he learned that ( which few 〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 learne of any ranke , and fewer doe practise that are in high places , whose places crave action , and action over-treads contemplation ) hee learned ( I say ) truly to contemne all worldly things , such as riches , honour , dignities , and the like ; and truly to long and seeke after heavenly treasure , which perisheth not , and bringeth with it no anxietie , or solicitude of minde , having the soule fully set and fixed on God alone . Many speake of it , and that very well , and not without some sense and feeling thereof , but it lasts not , save for a fit , and sudden flash . We are all of us too earthly , and savour too much of earth , from whence we were taken , and of which we were made , and thither also we bend , and tend ever down-ward , what through our naturall propension that way , what by example of the multitude , which like a violent stream of an over-bearing floud , carries us along , if we be not firmly built upon the rock of heavenly resolution , and unlesse we keep fast our hold by perpetuall and never-intermitted meditation . For him I dare avouch it , that howsoever he refrained from outward showes , for feare of falling into ostentation , or whatever other wayes he was employed about in regard of his place and calling , yet his minde was ever ( even in the midst of businesse ) wholly bent to God-ward , and would have beene glad to have beene freed from all thoughts and affaires which had any mixture of earthly things . And this disposition wrought in him by his being exiled , he esteemed no small benefit and advantage of his sufferings ; so that in private where he expressed himselfe freely , without all maske of ceremon●…e or nicenesse , he hath many times been heard to thanke God very heartily and seriously , with grave words , and settled countenance , saying , That hee would not have exchanged the crosse of his first banishment for all the Crownes and Princes estates in the world : farre lesse for an Earledome , or Lordship , such as Angus , or Douglas . So did God work with him by adversitie . While he was thus working upon himself in England , and framing his heart after a new mould and fashion ( which few knew or dreamed of ) God was preparing the way for his return to his place and honorsin Scotland . The love which his Countrey-men bore to him was great , and likewise generall , and almost universall ( as it did commonly follow that popular name of Douglas , to which it was in a manner hereditarie ) even in regard of his owne courteous , milde , and towardly disposition , and of the great hopes and expectation of excellent fruit ●…rom so noble and worthy a plant . This being accompanied with his suffering , and innocencie , together with his harmlesse youth , age did move pitie , and stirre the affections of most men toward him . As for particular friends , hee wanted them not ( as few Noblemen in this Countrey doe , all the Nobilitie being linked and bound one to another by Kindred or alliance ) his house having beene so eminent of a long time , and there being few of the Nobles , but were either descended of it , or tied to it by some consanguinity , affinity , or other relation . And therefore one would thinke it strange that he should have beene so long banished : yet when we looke upon his uncle Mortons case ( who had the same friends or more ) it is farre more strange that hee should have come to such an end . But as in this , when the appointed time came , nothing could hinder his fall and overthrow : so in Angus his case , untill the time appointed by God did come , nothing could worke his restitution . What the estate of businesse was at his departure , we have told already in Mortons life , ere that yeare came fully to an end ( or not long after he had beene a yeare in England ) there fell out a change at Court , which was thus : Esme Lord Obignie ( now Duke of Lennox ) and James Stuart Earle of Arran , had ( with their great riches and honours ) acquired much hatred from all sorts of men . The Ministerie were offended at them for making master Robert Montgomerie Archbishop of Glasgow , ( an Office then odious and unlawfull , as being against the Lawes of the Countrey , and ordinance of the Church ) and were jealous of the one as a suspected Papist , and perswaded that the other ( to wit , Arran ) was a downe-right Atheist . The Nobilitie stormed and grudged at their extraordinary and sudden preferment . For James was made Lord Hammiltoun , Abercorne , Bothwel-haugh , and Earle of Arran , with a power almost absolute ( given or usurped , under the name of Captaine of the Guard , and the pretext of pursuing the Douglasses ) to apprehend , imprison , and put on the racke whomsoever he pleased . Obignie was made Lord of Dalkeith , Tantallon , Darlin , Torbouton , and Duke of Lennox , Keeper of the Castle of Dumbartan , and great Chamberlaine of Scotland . Thus did they overtop and overshadow the rest of the Peeres , as tall Cedars doe small Shrubs , to their great discontentment and disdaine . The Gentlemen were so used by them , that they esteemed themselves brought into a thraldome and slaverie , none of them being sure of their estates , which were wrung from them by colour of law ( the cloake of their oppression ) and all fearing the rage and unlimited violence , especially of James Stuart , who was composed of nothing else , and whose actions were sutable to his disposition . The Burrowes were alienated by being cut short in their priviledges , liberties , and immunities , which were quarrelled , retrenched , cancelled , and taken away , according to their humours of avarice , and desire of gaine , and according to the pleasure and suggestions of their informers and parasites . With this their exorbitant increase of power and insolencie , as the hatred of others did increase toward them , so did variance arise betwixt themselves . The first occasion hereof was the carrying of the Crown at Parliament : this was proper , and is the hereditarie right and priviledge of the house of Angus , and he being now banished , and the Duke of Lennox having his estate , either for that regard , or because of his more honourable descent , or by the advantage of the Kings favour ( which he had in greater measure then Arran ) we cannot affirme ; but so it was , that he was preferred to bear it . Arran stormed at this , & protested that his bearing of it at this time should not be prejudicial to his claim , who being descended of the house of D. Mordack ( which was nearest to the King ) ought in reason to have carried it ; yet he renounced all title to the kingdom , notwithstanding of this extraction of his pedegree , and challenging of this honour . This renunciation was derided by some , and disdained by others , as a great malapartnesse , and high presumption in him , who being but lately raised from so meane a fortune and estate , durst utter such speeches as bewrayed such vast and high thoughts , as to aime at no lesse then the Kingdome , if ever ( the Kings owne race failing ) the right thereto should come in question , and happen to be controverted . And indeed his designes are thought to have flowne to no lower pitch , which ( perhaps ) had beene no very hard or impossible taske for him , if he could as well have kept out the Hammiltouns ( who could onely pretend right to it ) and the Douglasses ( whose power and authority was the greatest in the Countrey ) as hee found meanes to cast them out of Court and Countrey . For then he had had no Competitor but the Duke of Lennox , and him , being a stranger , and subsisting meerely by the present Kings favour , he nothing doubted to supplant by his craft and violence , joyned with such a colourable claim . Another occasion of discord fell out by Sir John Seaton , son to the Lord Seaton , and Master of the Kings horses . As the King was about to goe to his horse to ride a hunting , Arran having something to speake to him in private , all men were commanded to remove , which all did saving Sir John , who being by his place to wait upon the King , and set him on his horse , stayed still , and did not remove with the rest . Arran seeing him to stay behind the rest , either threatned to throw his batton at him , or did throw it indeed ; for hee carried a staffe or batton as Captaine of the Guard. Sir John would have requited this affront , but was hindred by the Guard , who carried him downe staires , and so parted them for that time . The next day Sir John , his brother Sir William , and the Lord Seaton himselfe , were all commanded to keepe their lodgings ; which the Duke ( who favoured them ) tooke so ill , that he refused to come abroad that day . At last they were so divided , that the Duke carried the King with him to Dalkeith , and Arran abode in the Palace of Halyrood-hoose . There were with the Duke , the Lord Seaton , Maxwell , ( then Earle of Morton ) with some others . Argyle , Ruthven , ( then Thesaurer , and lately made Earle of Gowrie ) the Secretarie , the Controller , and other Officers of State , stayed with Arran , and tooke upon them to make the body of the Kings Councell , and to sit as such . But all their Decrees and Conclusions were dashed by the King in person , which they wanted . These broiles lasted from the end of October till mid-Februarie , about which time the King returning to Halyroodhouse ( from whence Arran had removed before ) and from thence going backe againe to Dalkeith , he sent for him , and reconciled him to the Duke , after which they became greater friends then ever they had beene before : so that Arran would doe nothing for any man but what hee knew stood with the Dukes good liking But this union betwixt themselves divided them the more from others , and others from both of them ; for now hee that had any businesse with either , behoved to sue to both , and hee that disliked , or bore ill-will to either , was forced to fawne on him also , or to hate both , and seeke the overthrow of them both alike . At the Justice Aires in Perth 1582. in July , in some contest betwixt the Duke and the Earle of Gowrie , the Duke spake some reproachfull words to him in French , which Gowrie not understanding then ; afterward , when he had learned what the meaning of it was , he upbraided the Duke for ungratefulnesse , telling him , that was all the thanke he got for having twice saved him from being killed . Thus was he alienated , or thus did he bewray his alienation of minde , which lay hidden till now it burst forth . Another time the Chamberlaine Aires being indicted to be kept ( the 28. of August ) by the Duke ( then Chamberlaine ) which was a Court very odious to the Burrowes , as being rather a legall robbery , then a Court of Justice , and upon which it is thought he was set of purpose that he might incurre more hatred , which commonly falls out , when a former generall dislike doth meet with private grudges . This Court ( I say ) being indicted , while the Duke was bu●…ied in preparing for it , and he with Arran having left the King , were at Edinburgh and Dalkeith about such things as was necessary thereto : the foure and twentieth of August the King came from his hunting in Athole to Ruthven , where Gowrie , assisted by some of the Nobilitie , removed the Guard , that were under the command of Arrane , with no great adoe , and laid hold also of the Earle himselfe as he entred into the house of Ruthven , and conveighed him into a close roome , where he was kept , and not suffered to come neare the King. He had , upon the first surmising of an alteration , come from Edinburgh with a company of some fourescore horse , but hearing that the Earle of Marre was at Kinrosse in his way , hee sent his company with his brothers ( Robert and Henrie ) and he himselfe with one or two taking a byway , came to have slipt into the Kings presence before they had beene aware of him . But Gowrie being advertised hereof , met him at the gate , and had straightwayes killed him , if George Authenlecke ( sometime servitour to Morton ) had not held his hand as he was about to have pulled out his dagger to have stabbed him . His two brothers , with their company , were defeated by the Earle of Marre , of which Robert was wounded also , and taken prisoner . There joyned with Marre and Ruthven openly , Thomas Lion ( Master of Glames ) Lawrence Lord Oliphant , together with Sir Lewis Ballandine of Achnowle ( Justice-Clerke ) and others . Before Marre came , the Guard made some difficultie to admit them , and grant them entrance into the Kings chamber : for they serving for pay , and being put in , and commanded by Arran , when they heard what had happened to their Captaine , made an offer to resist , and not to suffer any man to come neare the King , unlesse hee should signifie his pleasure to be such . Sir Lewis Ballandine conceiving great indignation hereat , asked at master David Hume ( who by chance was come thither , and stood next to him ) if he had a pistoll about him , which he gave him , but withall said to him , Be not too hastie to shoot , let them alone , you shall find that their fury will soone fall ( lacking their Captaine , and a head ) and that they will give way , when once they see the Nobility approach . And so they did indeed , for the Earle of Marre being come , and the rest joyning with him , they shranke away and gave place . When they came to the King , they shewed him the necessity of doing what they had done , in regard of the violence of Arrane , and their feare and suspition of the Duke of Lennox : That there was no other way to remove the generall discontent of his Subjects , and to prevent the dangers which would follow thereupon to himselfe , and his Crowne , then by removing of these men from about him , whose unjust actions , and violent oppressions , reflected upon his Majesty , to the great prejudice of his honour and estate , as also to the great disadvantage of Religion , and the good of his people . The King assented to what they said , either because he thought it to be the true , or rather , ( as appeared afterward ) that he might seeme to approve of that which hee could not resist ▪ So they goe to Perth , then to Stirling , where their Proclamations were set forth ; the one containing the Kings Declaration , concerning what was done at Ruthven ; that it was for his service , and acceptable to him . In the other the Duke of Lennox was commanded to depart out of the Realme of Scotland before the 24. of September . There was a third also , by which the Chamberlain Aires were discharged to be kept . The Earle of Angus had ( a little before these things ) come down from the Court of England to Berwick , in expectation of this change ; and now having notice given him by these Noblemen of what had passed , he stayed a while in the towne , and thereafter came into Scotland : yet did he not goe directly to Court , but came to Cumledge in the Merse , a house within eight miles of Berwick , which belonged to Archbald Authenleck ( a follower of his Uncle Morton ) and lay next adjacent to his Barony of Boncle . There he remained till Master Bowes , and Master Cary ( Embassadours from the Queen of England ) came into Scotland ( the 11 of September ) and did by their intercession obtain of the King , that hee might be assoyled from that crime of Rebellion , which his enemies had put upon him , because he had not obeyed their charges given out in the Kings name , to come to Court , which was indeed to come into their power . Neither did he presently after hee was relaxed come neare the King , untill he had assurance that the King was very well contented , and desirous that he should come to him ; but stayed some five weekes , expecting his full and free consent therein , that his return might bee such as could not be excepted against . The King delayed him a while , that hee might be beholding to him ●…or this favour , and he was contented to stay so long , that the King might see he was willing to receive it at his hands as a favour , and that by so doing , he might fully remove all hard construction that his Majesty could make of his withdrawing into England . He had presence of the King the 20. of October ( about two moneths after he came home ) in the Palace of Haly-rood-house , where hee was kindly and lovingly received , to the great contentment of all men , and with great commendation of his modesty ; for that hee had patiently waited for his Princes pleasure so long a time , and had not abruptly rusht into his sight , which many would , and he might have done easily had he pleased to have made that use of the times and opportunitie which was offered : but his disposition was not that way set ; he was truely of a milde disposition , abhorring all turbulencie , every way towardly , inclining to peace , and to all submission toward his Prince . Now being thus returned , gladly would hee have lived in quietnesse , and injoyed the Kings favour still , as he had it at this time , and willingly would he have served him as a faithfull and loyall Subject according as he had been pleased to have imployed him , without further stirring or meddling with any thing , or any person . Neither ( as I thinke ) did the world ever know , or bring forth a more calme and quiet spirit , voyd of ambition and covetousnesse , as also of all envie and malice to any creature , which are the chiefe causes of restlesse and tumultuous practices . He was also mindfull of Mortons counsell at his death , who advised him to doe so : and being alreadie in so honourable a place ( first of the Nobilitie ) he had little or nothing else to desire or hope for , if hee could have been assured to possesse his owne in peace . But finding the Countrey divided , the dregs of the old faction that stood for the Queen , still working underhand , and by it the Romish party labouring to undermine the true reformed Religion , and such as had been instruments to establish it , upon whose ruine these new men ( by their new courses ) did indeavour to build their preferment , so that none could with surety live in any honourable place , as a good Patriot , but behoved to take part with them that stood for Religion , and undergoe the like hazard as they did . Besides , these Noblemen had ( in very deed ) wrought out and made way for his returne from exile , by removing of those who were ( as common enemies to all honest men , so more particularly ) his especiall enemies , having been authours of his Uncles death , and who had seized upon his owne lands and possessions . They were also his near kinsemen , and deare friends , Gowrie and Glames were come of his house , Oliphant was of his alliance ( having married Margaret Douglas , daughter to William of Logh-leven ) and Marre was his brother in law , and no lesse his brother in love and affection , which continued without the least breach or diminution , so long as he lived . These private and publick inducements thus meeting and concurring , he could not esteem that cause to be more theirs then his owne , and therefore could not choose but embrace it as his own , that is , to the utmost of his power . Therefore he joyned with them in it sincerely for his owne part , but they continued not long undivided amongst themselves . For the Duke being divers times charged to voide the Realme , after divers shifts and delayes , at last he went through England into France in the moneth of December , and not long after he died there the 27. of July 1583. After he was gone , they being rid of that feare , there fell out dissention betwixt the Earle of Gowrie , and Secretarie Pitcarne ( made Lord of Dumfermeling ) in April 1583. The King went to the Castle of Saint Andrewes in August , and there the Earle of Gowrie ( having changed his minde with the change of affaires ) tooke a remission for his fact at Ruthven , as being Treason , and so by his owne confession condemned himselfe , and all his partners therein , and by separating himselfe from them , overthrew the cause , and them with it . All this while after Angus his returne , there was nothing done worthy of memory , save that he ( out of his love and respect to his Uncle Morton ) caused his head to be taken downe from the City gate , and honourably buried with his body , the 10. of December 1582. The chiefe instrument in this change , was William Stuart , a brother of the house of Goston , who had beene a Colonell in the Low-Countreyes , and was then Captain of the Kings Guard. Gowrie had brought him home , and preferred him to the Kings service , of purpose to counterpoyse the greatnesse of Arran : but they were so wise , as not to crosse one another ; but on the contrary , they did aid and strengthen each other all they could . By this Williams means , the authours and actors of the fact at Ruthven were strictly commanded to depart from the Court , and the Earle of Arrane recalled thither again . Angus had joyned with those of Ruthven , yet because he had not been an actor there , and had had no hand in it , he hoped that they would suffer him to live in quietnesse at home . Secretary Walsingham ( Embassadour from Queene Elizabeth ▪ had gotten a promise of the King that he should be fully restored to all his lands and possessions , and hee had relied thereon , and waited long for the performance thereof ; but finding nothing but delayes , he perceived they had no good meaning toward him . And so indeed it proved , for Marre , and the master of Glames were confined in Argyle , the Castle of Stirling ( of which Marre and his predecessours had been keepers time out of minde ) was committed to the custody of Arrane ; and the Earle of Angus was confined beyond Forth . Before his going to the place of his confinement , hee wrote to some of his friends to accompany him thither for his safety in his journey . This being knowne at Court , it was interpreted to be done of intention to surprise the King , who was that day to goe abroad to his haulking . It was alledged also , that Marre and Glames were to meet him at Achnoweshill , and to joyne with him in his surprisall . Hereupon the King having risen by times that morning to goe to his sport , and being ready to take horse , was stayed that day , and curriours were sent out to try how matters went , and whether that report were true . Some of these scouts came to the Key-stone , ( for that way Angus tooke of purpose , being furthest off from the Court , that he might be out of their danger , and they freed from all feare of him ) and found him riding in a peaceable manner , accompanied with a small train of his domesticks onely , and those but halfe-armed ( which was ordinary then , even in the most peaceable times ) and no wayes prepared for warre . Hee desired them to tell his Majesty that he was going toward the place of his confinement , in obedience to him ; and they did relate the truth very faithfully and honestly to the King. This rumour ( of surprising the King ) was said to have proceeded from one of his owne name , who having been in Tantallon the day before , and perceiving that there were letters in writing , which they did not communicate to him ( as Angus did never impart businesse to any , but such as were his intimate friends , and there having been some difference betwixt him , and this Gentleman , he never used him after that so familiarly ) made this conjecture of their secrecie , and whispered , it to the Courtiers , who were apt to beleeve it : whether he did indeed suspect some such thing , or if it were raised onely by envious , and malicious persons , we cannot affirme , but fame laid the blame of it on him ; for that he , having been so late over night at Tantallon , had made great haste to be in Edinburgh that night , and came to Court before day light : and that upon his coming , the Kings haulking was stayed ; yet it is uncertain , for he was commanded also to depart out of the Countrey . The Earle of Angus crossed Forth at the Queens Ferry , and went to his owne house at Aberdowre ; but because there hee was too neare the Court , and so obnoxious to suspition , hee removed from thence to Kinrosse : and to secure them yet more , leaving his houshold there behinde him , he went almost alone to Lesely , a house belonging to his brother in Law , the Master of Rothusse . Being there , he moved him , and the Earle his father to deal with the Courtiers to grant him so much favour as to suffer him to live a private and retired life , at one of his owne houses in the Countrey farre from Court , and State businesse : but they were so farre from yeelding to any such thing , that whereas he had been charged onely to remaine beyond Forth before ; now hee is sent to remain beyond Spaye . Wherefore hee takes his journey thither , and came to Dundie ; and from thence toward Elgin in Murray . Master Scrimger of Diddup ( Constable of Dundie ) would needs bring him on his way ; and as if he had intended no more , caused carry his haulkes with him , but by no means would leave him till he came to his journeyes end . By the way he being well knowne , tooke upon him to be the chiefe man , and gave out that Angus was his sonne in law , the Laird of Inshmartin . This hee did , least the Courtiers should have laid some ambushment for him by the way , hee being to passe through a Countrey , where their partie was strong , and where they had many favourers , having none of his owne followers with him , save Robert Douglas of Cavers , Gentleman of his horses . So he passed the Carne-Mont with great celerity and haste , the rest of his houshold following after by easie journeyes . Great was the care his worthy friend the Constable had of him ; and many wayes did hee labour to keepe him from melancholy , and to divert his thoughts from too much dwelling upon his present hard condition : there was no kinde of sport or game , which he did not afford him with all the varietie he could devise to entertain him , and to cheare him up : till the court , envying even this small contentment to him , commanded the Constable also to goe off the Countrey ; yet was hee never destitute of friends ; such was the sweetnesse of his disposition , and of such power and force was it , that it wonne the hearts of all the Gentlemen in those quarters to him : such as the Innesses , Dumbarres , Hayes , and others , who did all strive who should shew most affection toward him , by inviting him to their houses , and feasting him by turnes , and using of him with all courtesie , and respect ; so that hee could not have beene more honoured and regarded amongst his dearest friends , and nearest kinsfolkes . Nay , such was their love to him , that hearing some surmises of no great good will borne to him by Huntley , they of their own accord came to him , and forbade him to bee afraid of him , for they would spend their lives in his defence , and for his safetie , if the Earle of Huntley should attempt any thing against him ▪ Wherefore it was thought that they being thus affected , he durst not adventure to execute any Court plot against him , which he wanted no good will to do , and otherwayes would have done . Yet was this the place of the Kingdome , where all Huntleyes power and friendship lay very neare at hand , and where Angus had least acquaintance and fewest friends , all of them being meere strangers to him , without any other bond of obligation or tie of relation , but what his vertue and worth had gained in that short time of his being amongst them and conversing with them . The Courtiers at this time were at no small contest and variance with the Ministers ; chiefly with Master James Lowson , Master Walter Balcanquell , John Durie ( Ministers at Edinburgh ) and Master Andrew Melvin , Principall of the new Colledge of Saint Andrewes , and Professour of Divinity there . The occasion was this ; they had at a Generall Assembly approved the fact of Ruthven by the Kings especiall commandement , and now being desired by the Courtiers to condemne it , they refused to doe it . Both sides alledged the Kings authority ; the Courtiers pleading , that such was his will now : and the Ministers , that it was not such then . The Courtiers said that he was a captive then ; and the Ministers replyed , that ( perhaps ) he was so now : that they saw not any thralling of him then ; and that it might as well be alledged hereafter that he was a captive now , as it was alledged now that hee was a captive then . As for the particular quarrels of either side , they said they knew them not ; but one thing they knew , that they were as good men , as Noble , as worthie , as well affected to his Majestie who were with him then , as those were who were about him now ; that they were as free from all suspition of unsoundnesse in Religion , nay , much freer , the others being at least suspected . In which regard they could not retract what they had done , and could not but allow of their fact who had removed from the King , men that were not altogether free of suspition . What private ends or aimes they had , was unknown to them , as also they were ignorant what the respects were which they now had ; both pretended the Kings will ; but they were sure of this point , that the removing of suspected men was a good office , and made for his well being , and that the instruments thereof were instruments of a good work , whatsoever were their intentions . Thus most of them spake : Others expressed themselves more harshly , saying , that wicked men were removed , and such as were enemies to the Church , to the Countrey and to the Nobility , who sought their own preferment with the overthrow of all , that they might be built upon the ruines of all these . These speeches were very unfavourie to the Earle of Arran , to the Colonell Stuart , and the Prior of Pitten-weeme . It rubbed upon them , and ( by consequent ) as they would have it appeare ) reflected upon the King. Wherefore they called it sedition , and stirring up of dissention betwixt the King and his Subjects . So they informe the King , and by their Information , animate him against them . Wherefore John Dury behooved to be removed from Edinburgh to Monrosse : Master James Lowson , and Master Walter Balcanquell were rebuked onely . Master Walters Text was treason ( against the Courtiers ) and spake too much though hee had said nothing . It was that passage of Ecclesiastes [ I saw Princes walking on foot , and servants riding on horse-back ] that is , Great and worthie men displaced , and base men set up in their room ; to which doctrine hee added an admonition , that they should look to themselves when the cup of their iniquitie should bee full . Master Andrew Melvin was dilated to the King and Councell by one William Stuart , that he had said in a Sermon of his , That the King was unlawfully called to the Kingdome ; but he craved , that seeing he was accused of wrong doctrine , that hee might bee tried by a Generall or Synodall Assembly , who are the proper judges of doctrine delivered from the Pulpit . It was answered , that he should have no other than the King and Councell , who ordained him to enter himself prisoner in BlackNesse . Whereupon hee fearing , and informed that Colonell Stuart and Arran had no good meaning toward him , fled secretly to Berwick Before his departure , hee drew up his Apologie , of which it will not be amisse to set down the summe , as a testimony of his innocencie and equity of his cause , as also of the violence , and iniquity of those times , that so it may appear more evidently what just grounds and reasons the Noblemen had to labour to have things redressed , and such enormous insolencies repressed . First , He protested solemnly before God and his Angels , that he never uttered either in that Sermon or in any other , any one word which might import any disgrace or slander of his Soveraigne the Kings Majestie : but had ever exhorted all men to yeeld him all reverence and obedience : that hee had ever , and still did acknowledge him his lawfull Prince and supreame Governour in civill matters ; that he had ever , and even then prayed for his preservation and prosperity : Secondly , that his desire to bee tried by a Synod of the Church , did not proceed from any intention to call his Majesties authority in question , but onely because they were appointed to bee the ordinary judges of any thing delivered in preaching , In primâ instantiâ . He alledged for this a plaine Act of Parliament , and a con●…erence betwixt certain Lords of the Councell , and some Ministers deputed by the King , who had agreed upon this conclusion . Thirdly , hee said that Councels and Doctors of the Church did think that the triall of such things is most conveniently and fitly to bee taken in the place where the slander is raised , and scandall given ; which was Saint Andrewes , for there that Sermon was preached : Fourthly , hee pleaded , that the priviledges of the University , granted and given to it by former Kings , and confirmed and ratified by his Majesties self , made the Rector and his Assessors , Judges to all Ministers , Masters and Students that were Members of the same , and were accused of any offence committed within the liberties thereof . Fifthly , that he spake nothing but what he had good warrant for from scripture . Sixthly , that he had for him ; first , the testimony of the Universitie , signed by the Rector , and sealed with their seal ; secondly , the testimony of the Church-Session in S. Andrews , subscribed by the Ministers , Elders and Deacons ; thirdly , the testimony of the Provest and Bailiffs , and town Councell , signed by the town Clerk by their commandement , and sealed with their seal ; fourthly , and last of all , the testimony of the Presbyterie , subscribed by the Clerk thereof : which testimonies were of more value to absolve him , than any one mans accusation was to condemne him . Seventhly , he desired that he might have the common priviledge of all the Subjects , which was to know his accuser ▪ and the prerogative of a Minister of Gods word , that an accusation should not be received ( or put in processe ) against him , but under two or three witnesses . Eighthly , that his accuser might be liable , and incurre the punishment due to him by the Acts of Parliament , if his accusation were found to be false . Ninthly , that the Defender might have place , and be permitted to object against his Accuser : And that if William Stuart were the man , he would prove that the said William had professed hatred against him , and had threatned him to do him bodily harm ; in which respect , his information was to be suspected if he were the Delatour , or if he were a witnesse his testimony was not sufficient . Notwithstanding of all this , yet he said , he would simply declare the truth in the presence of God and his Angels , so far forth as his memory would serve him . He said , his text was , Daniels expounding of the hand-writing on the wal to Baltazar . Here he observed how Daniel in reproving Baltazar for not giving glory to God for his benefits toward him and his father , and for abusing the vessels of the house of God , did apply the Text ( of the hand-writing ) to Baltazar . From hence ( and other places of Scripture ) he inferred , that application ought to be made of examples ( whether of mercies or judgements ) by the Ministers of the Word ( as Daniel was ) to Kings , as was Baltazar : And that the nearer the example touched the party to whom it were applied ( as that of Nabuchodonosor , who was father to Baltazar ) the more forcible it would be . This ( said he ) is the right way of application , but who doth it now-a-dayes ? Or if any do it , who cares for it , or is moved with it ? If a man should now apply the example of our Predecessours to these times , as of King James the third , how his Courtiers and flatterers abused him , would they not say that he raved , and wandered from his Text ? Nay , perhaps , accuse him of Treason . Secondly , he said , concerning these words which his accuser did alledge to have been spoken by him ( that our Nabuchodonosor , to wit , the Kings mother , had bin banished twice seven years , & would be restored again ) as it never came into his mind , so did he not remember the words , or any expression tending to that purpose , or importing any such thing : Thirdly , As for that speech ( That the King was unlawfully called to the Crown ) or any thing sounding that way ; he protested before God , he never spake it , nor did he ever doubt of the lawfulnesse of his Majesties authority , which the Church had ever maintained , & he himself constantly avouched , as all that knew him could bear witnesse . That it was true , that in speaking of Nabuchodonosor , he had said ; That first , howbeit he had succeeded to his fathers Kingdome , and that when he was of ripe years : secondly , though he were endowed with wisedome , learning , liberality , and other vertues : thirdly , though he had conquered and purchased divers Territories and Countries , as a valiant Captain ( having been Lieutenant to his father ) in his fathers time : fourthly , And although he were made King ( after his father ) by all the Nobility : yet Daniel maketh mention of none of all these , but saith , That God gave him the Kingdome . From whence he gathered as a firm conclusion ; That , by whatsoever way Kingdomes do come ( whether by election , succession , or conquest , whether by ordinary or extraordinary means ) it is God that gives them , & he that makes Kings . But ( alas ! ) men do forget this that are in high places , as experience doth shew : And not only Atheists and Idolaters , but even godly Kings are subject to this forgetfulnesse . David extraordinarily called , Salomon also extraordinarily , and Joas extraordinarily preserved and crowned in his tender years , did all forget the ordainer , all forget God their advancer ; and he therefore did chastise them . That instead of applying this to the King , he did ( as his custome ever was , when he spake of his Majestie ) turne and convert it into a Prayer : That since such was the weaknesse of Godly Kings , it would please God of his mercie never to suffer our King to forget Gods goodnesse and mercie toward him , who had called him extraordinarily to be King of the Countrey : first , being but a childe in his Cradle : secondly , his mother yet alive : thirdly , a great part of the Nobility his enemies : and fourthly , some of them still pursuing of him , ever since the heavie burden of government was laid on his shoulders . He concluded that these were his formall words , upon which , what ground any man could have to build such accusation against him , he referred it to the wisedome of his Majestie and his councell , who , he hoped , would not give eare to such who through malice did stretch or wrest his words , or through ignorance did mistake them ; not being able to distinguish betwixt extraordinary calling , and unlawfull calling . This Declaration he set forth , not so much to beg favour or releasement , but to render the reason of his chosen and voluntary exile . Divers moe than he , who suffered as he did , and for the same cause , set forth likewise their apologies to justifie themselves , by clearing of their innocencie , and shewing the causes of their leaving the Countrey & their callings . The Courtiers did interest the King in all these quarrels , and laboured to embarke him therein the deepest they could : and by all meanes strove to make him beleeve that all was against him , and that their aime was at him , whom they wounded through their sides : and fain they would have perswaded all others to the same . But all were not so blinde : there were many that could , & did distinguish and separate the Kings cause from the Courtiers ; and did shew that as they hated them , so they loved him . Especially the Ministery , who at a Generall Assembly ( held at Edinburgh in November ) appointed a generall Fast to be kept throughout the whole Kingdome , and gave out the reasons thereof to be : first , The abounding of wickednesse : secondly , The danger of the Church : thirdly , The danger of the King : fourthly , The danger of the Common-wealth ( which all were meant , & did directly point at the rulers of court chiefly ) through their wickednesse , Atheisme , want of Religion , Godlessenesse , Popishnesse , or Libertinisme , avarice , aspiring ; Who being sole ( said they ) or chief about the King , under the shadow of his authority : first , do trouble the Ministery : secondly , seek to pervert his Majestie , and draw him ( if it were possible for them ) to the same contempt of Religion ; that so in time he might become a persecuter and enemie to the Church , and overthrow it altogether : thirdly , do tread under foot the Common-wealth of this Countrey , by banishing the best of the Nobility , who do love God and the Church best , and are best affected toward the Kings welfare , that they in the meane time may possesse and brook their Lands and Inheritance : And fourthly , who suffered murther , oppression , witch-craft , whooredome , and many other sinnes to passe unpunished and uncurbed . This Fast continued the space of a Week , including both the Sundayes . The Cou●…tiers ( notwithstanding of this ) contemning and slighting all admonitions , kept on their own wayes and course of committing , banishing , discrediting , and weakening of all such as they thought did favour the Nobility , and were not forward enough to further them , and advance their faction . They ingrossed all places of power and authority to themselves ; dis-armed , dis-abled , and diminished all others , and even derided them . Of which dealing I will recompt one example amongst many : I have made mention above , how some discord and variance fell out betwixt Pitcairne , Abbot of Dumfermling , and the Earl of Gowrie . Hereupon Gowrie ( to match Pitcairne ) had reconciled himself to the Courtiers , and was thought to side with them ; and especially to be very intimate with Colonell Stuart . Pitcairne laboured to out-shoot the Earle in his own Bow , and for that end sues to the Colonel for his friendship , which because he knew that it was vendible , he sent him the price thereof ( according to his estimate ) in gold . The Colonell liked the mettall , but not the condition , and therefore he kept both his friendship and the gold to himself ; and having shewed it to the King and Gowrie , deriding him , said , that the Abbot had sent him that to draw the King to favour him ; and thus was he flouted , and wiped clean of his Moneyes . William Douglas of Logh-leven was confined in the Merse , for no other fault , but because he was a Douglas , and an upright honest man as any was in the Kingdome . Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , because he was in Kinne , and a friend of the Earle of Angus , was sent prisoner to the Castle of Downe beyond Forth : Sir James Hume of Coldinknows was committed to the Castle of Edinburgh ; Master Cunninghame of Drummewhasle was likewise imprisoned ; and Master John Colvill brother to Cleish had been served in the same kinde , if he , fearing their rage , had not prevented it by fleeing . Many others were used after the like sort , it being a sufficient crime to favour any of the discourted Noblemen . Last of all , a Proclamation was made , wherein the Fact at Ruthven was condemned as foule , abominable , and treasonable , and all the actors therein ( or favourers of them ) were commanded to depart from Edinburgh , and not to com●… near the place where the King was , or should happen to be , under the pain of death . The Earle of Gowrie had taken a remission for it , but it served not his turne , nor did him any good at all : for he was particularly charged to go off the Countrey , and not to remain in Scotland , England , or Ireland , with a non obstante , notwithstanding any remission obtained before . And to secure themselves yet further , they prohibited all men to carry Pistols , except the Kings Domesticks , and his Guard. They brought home also into Scotland , Lodowick Duke of Lennox ( son to Obignie ) being then but a child , to strengthen their party , and to tie the Kings affection so much the more to them . He was restored to his fathers estate , & ( as a part thereof ) to the Lordship of Dalkeith . This being Angus his inheritance , they thought it would engage the Duke in a perpetual enmitie with him , as it is ordinary for a man to hate him whom he wrongs . On these & the like grounds they established to themselves ( in their own conceit ) a perpetuall & safe estate ; which they had so fastned and linked with the Kings , that neither could be brangled without the shaking and over turning of the other . But these courses produced a quite contrary effect , & even then wrought such disposition in men , as did at last over-throw all their plots , and themselves withall . So frail , and so unsure a foundation is iniquity . For Angus as he was altogether innocent of any thing that could be alledged against him , even in their own judgements , so was he universally beloved of all , by an hereditary popularity from his Auncestours , and more for his own known vertues ; and therefore being thus wronged in his person , and in his inheritance , he was pitied of all . Marre in like manner , being descended of an honourable , ancient , faithfull and loyall race of Progenitours , as also for his own good parts and conditions , was beloved in like sort , and pitied , notwithstanding that he had been an actour at Ruthven . The Earle of Gowrie ( by the contrary ) was greatly hated by the Courtiers , and little set by , or regarded by the other partie . He had assisted ( with his father ) at the slaughtering of Rizio , and was the chief man and principall authour and actour in the fact of Ruthven . Yet had he changed his minde and side at S. Andrews , repented him of what he had done at Ruthven , condemned it , and taken a remission for it . Now being casten off by the Court , and commanded to depart off the Countrey , he repents him of his repentance , and condemnes his condemning ; and would ( if he could ) salve all again by his recanting and retracting of this last act . But as the committing of the fact had made him to be hated by the Courtiers , so his condemning of it had brought him to be suspected of the Noblemen . He had condemned himself , and did deserve to be condemned , either for that he had done at Ruthven , or for his condemning of what he did then , and taking a remission for it . He had given a colour to the adverse party to condemne it by his confession and example , and had furnished them with that argument whereby to presse the condemning of it upon the Ministerie or others . For that was their maine argument , and the string they most harped on , Gowries confession of a fault , and remission for it . All this notwithstanding , he desires to joyne with the Lords , and offers to tie himself to their partie with the strictest bonds that could be devised . Their case was the same with his ; all to be utterly undone , unlesse some remedie were found ; their enemies were the same with his , the guiders of Court ; neither should they onely bee overthrown , but with them and through them the es●…te of Religion , and of the whole Countrey . This as it was spetious , so was it most true and certain , and which could not be denied . But what society could be sure with the Earle of Gowrie so often changing ? If his changing proceeded from fraud and deceit , who could joyne with him ? Or if it were from feare , what sure hold could they have of one so fearfull ? Even Angus himself ( whose nature was farre from distrusting ) could not but distrust and suspect him . Onely , his present case seemed to plead for his sincerity at this time ; which was such , that he knew not where to shelter or secure himself , but by joyning with them . For he was charged to depart out of the Kingdome , which was a token of no good will , nay of true enmity with the Court : or certainly , a deeper dissimulation than any man could concei e. And as necessitie did force him to take part with them , so were they also no lesse urged by necessitie to admit and receive him , in respect of his great power & friendship in those quarters . The Earl of Athol and the Lord Oglebee ( two Noblemen of great power and command ) were his sonnes-in-law : Inshe-chaiffrey and Drummond his dear friends ; and he himself was Sheriffe of Perth , and Provest of the Town . Wherefore Angus his confinement being enlarged to the North-water , and he residing in the Castle of Brechin ( his brother the Earle of Marres house ) he sent one † Master David Hume , whom he trusted , to conferre with him , that hee might trie and sound his minde as narrowly as he could , and report to him what hee found . The Gentleman found him in words , in countenance , and in gesture greatly perplexed , solicitous for his estate , besides the affairs of the Countrey , and greatly afraid of the violence of the Courtiers . So that looking very pitifully upon his Gallerie where wee were walking at that time ( which hee had but newly built and decored with Pictures ) he brake out into these words , having first fetched a deep sigh ; Cousin ( sayes he ) Is there no remedie ? Et impius haec tam culta novalia miles habebit ? Barbarus has segetes ? Whereupon he was perswaded of his upright meaning , and at his returne perswaded the Earle of Angus thereof also . So partly upon this assurance , partly enforced by necessity ( there being no possibility to be strong in those parts without his concurrence ) hee resolved to assume him into their fellowship and societie . Then did those scruples and doubts arise in Angus his minde , which are incident to honest natures and loyall dispositions . Hee considered that banding against Courtiers would be called , and seem to be combining against Authority and the King ; for hee would take their part for the present : so was he to force his will , whom his heart carried him to honour . But what should hee doe ? There was no other way ( that he could devise ) to secure their estates , their houses , themselves , their Countrey , and all honest men from oppression and ruine , to preserve Religion ( which ought to be dear to all men , and was dear to him ) nay , even to save the King himself ( whose safe●…e did consist in the preservation of the Church and Kingdome ) and to deliver him , and pluck him out of the claws of these Harpies , whose oppression and wickednesse did reflect upon him , and redound to his dishonour : For whatsoever they did , was done in his name , and said to be the Kings will and pleasure . Their banishing of Noblemen , and oppressing of all sorts and ranks of men , without difference or respect , so that there was no honest man but stood in continuall fear of losing his life and estate : all this was laid upon the King. Their avarice was insatiable , their malice cruell , and their suspition unsatisfiable . They stood not upon reason , law or right ; any pretence ( which they never wanted ) served them for a warrant to seize mens persons or estates . Their ordinary course was to summond a man super inquirendis , and if he did compeir , to commit him to a free or close prison ; if hee were afraid , and did not compeir , hee was found guiltie of rebellion , denounced , and his goods seized . They would be sure not to want witnesses to prove any thing against any man , by torturing his servants , or himself , to wring something out of him , which might bee matter against him , through impatiencie , and the violence of the Rack : At least hee should bee sure to bee vexed by re-examinations , and with-drawn from his necessary affairs , that so hee might bee constrained to buy his libertie and leave to stay at home , with some portion of his land , or a piece of money . These doings of theirs , though many knew that the King did not allow of them , yet being coloured with his authoritie , were apt to alienate ( and might in time produce that effect ) the mindes of the Subjects from their Prince , as also the heart of the Prince from his Subjects , by their filling his ears with jealousies , and by making vertue a cause of suspition , and him that was vertuous in any eminent measure , suspected and hated ; and on the contrary , vice and the vicious to have vogue and credit , and to over-rule all . How could this bee obviated , unlesse these men were removed ? And how could they be removed without controlling of the King ? And to contrary him ( though it were for his good and sasetie ) how ill would it be taken by him ? Invitum qui servat , idem facit occidenti : To save a man against his will , is commonly rewarded with slender thanks . Patriam & parentes cogere etiamsi possis , & utile sit , tamen importunum est : To save a Prince against his will , and to force him for his good , how dangerous a point is it ? For they account it as their life to reigne , and no reigning without absolutenesse , unlesse they reigne at libertie , without any controllment , were it never so little . But there was no remedie ; whoso undertakes any great enterprise , must resolve to passe through some danger . And it is good for Kings sometimes that their hands bee held . had Alexanders hands been held when he killed Clitus , hee had not offered to kill himselfe , nor should Calistines have needed to take such pains with him , to make him digest his griefe for it . If speeches could have prevailed with the Courtiers , the Ministers had tried that way , but with bad successe : for they were accounted seditious and traiterous for their liberty and freedome therein . Wherefore there was nothing remaining but to remove them at what ever rate : and if his Majestie should take it ill for the present , future obsequiousnesse would make it appeare , that what they did , was in love and humilitie , and no wayes out of any treasonable or malicious intention , or out of arrogancy , pride , or presumption . The French Proverbe taketh place ; Il faut passer par la : there was no other way besides ; no audience , no accesse could bee had to him by any other means . So they conclude to joyne their pains , and to partake of the perill . The way resolved upon , was , to assemble themselves at Stirling with their Forces ; there to supplicate the King , and to make their declaration to the Countrey : to intimate their grievances and desires , with all respect to his Majestie , and with all evidence and plainnesse , against the Courtiers . For this end , the Earle of Marre and Master of Glams should bee sent for , and first finde meanes to take in the Castle of Stirling ( an easie taske for the Earle of Marre to performe , having his friends lying near to it , and the Towne devoted to his service ) then the Earle of Gowrie should goe thither ( who lay nearest to it ) together with the Earle of Athole , the Lord Oglebie , the Drummonds , and the Murrayes : Next to him the Earle of Angus from Brechin , to whom his friends would repaire out of the South parts , the Merse , Liddesdale and other parts : The Earle Bothwell , my Lord Lindsay , and diverse others of the Nobilitie were also on the party , and had promised to joyne with them . Being once Conveened , and having the affection of the Ministerie and Burrowes , they hoped to bee strong enough against these new mens owne power , assisted onely by their particular friends . If the Kings name were used against them , there behoved to bee a Convention of the Nobilitie , and Barons ; who would heare the Cause , judge impartially , and informe the King truely , without flattery or feare of the courtiers , whom they hated ; neither could they doubt of his equitie , and tractablenesse , when hee should understand how things were . So the businesse should end without bloud , and have a good and happy issue . And if the worst should come , yet were it better to die noblely in the field , then to bee hailed to the scaffold and suffer by the hand of the Executioner . Thus did they propose , but God did dispose of things otherwayes . Men know not the Councell and secrets of the Almightie , whose determination doth onely stand and come to passe . He had not ordained , that they should execute their designs , nor that they should die in the quarrel ; it was to be done by another way , and at another time : the cup of their iniquitie , was not yet full against whom they tooke armes . Wherefore they were disappointed at this time , which fell out thus . The Earle of Gowry was charged the second of March to depart the Countrey within fifteen dayes . Hee shifted and delayed ; this affrighted the Courtiers , or gave them occasion to seeme affraid , and to put the King into a feare and suspition , that there was some enterprise in hand against him : whereupon the Citizens of Edinburgh were made to keepe a watch about the Pallace . Gowrie made shew as if hee had intended to obey the charge ( contrary to the advice of his associates ) and that they might beleeve that his intention was reall , hee goeth to Dundie , causeth provide a ship , and make all things ready ; so that the Courtiers were not more affraid that hee would stay , then his Partners were that hee would hoise saile , and bee gone ; Especially , the Earle of Angus distrusted him , and was jealous of his dissimulation , being uncertaine whether it were with the Court , or with them that hee did thus dissemble . At last having trifled out the time , till mid Aprill , Colonell William Stuart came to Dundie , and having a small company with him , setteth upon him at unawares , and made him save himselfe in his lodging . Then having brought some pieces of Ordnance out of the ships , which lay in the Haven , being aided by the Townesmen ( to whom hee had brought a Commission , and warrant from the King ) hee began to batter the house ; whereupon it was rendered , and the Earle taken prisoner . By chance as this was in doing , a servant of the Earle of Angus , coming from Dalkeith by Dundie , and having seene all that had happened , made haste , and came to Brechen about twelve a clock of the night , where hee gave his Lord notice of what hee had seen . Hee arose presently , being much moved therewith , and sending for the Gentleman , whom hee had imployed to trie his minde before , made a heavie moane , bewailing the overthrow of their cause , and of themselves . Then hee asked his opinion what hee thought of it , and first told his owne , that hee thought it could bee nothing else but deceit , and collusion , which hee had ever feared , and was now evident , that his going to Dundie ( contrary to his advise ) had no other end but this : and that his lingering proceeded from the same ground . For ( said hee ) how could the Colonell undertake to apprehend him with so small a number of men , if hee had not himselfe beene willing to bee taken ? If hee doubted , or distrusted the towne of Dundie , why did hee commit himselfe to them , or come in their power ? Why did hee not stay at Perth , where hee was out of all danger , till the time appointed were come ? Doubtlesse , hee hath betrayed us all , and hath colluded to suffer himselfe to bee taken ; so to colour his unfaithfull dealing with us . It was answered , that hee could not approve his coming to Dundie , which hee ever disliked , and had laboured to disswade him from it , but could not prevaile : yet it seemed a hard construction to thinke that hee came thither of purpose to act a fained apprehending ; that his slownesse and lingering was well knowne to bee his naturall disposition , ( being another Fabius Cunctator in that point ) which hee had often found by former experience , and often contested with him for it . But to thinke him false in such a degree , or to imagine him to bee so foolish as to come in the hands of those Courtiers , with a crime lying on him , ( though but counterfeited ) it was such a point , that for his owne part , his opinion was , that he durst not do it , lest they should make use of it for his ruine , and convert a colluded crime into a true dittie , and so worke his death . But this could not satisfie the Earle of Angus , but still hee kept his opinion , that there was no realitie in that act of Gowries apprehending . And hee was the more confirmed therein , when he heard that the Colonell carried Gowry to the houses of his owne especiall friends , such as Weemes of Wester-Weemes , whose sonne offered to set him at liberty , and to take him out of the Colonels hands , and to goe with him himselfe , which hee refused to doe . Angus passed the rest of that night in great solicitude and feare , lest hee himselfe should bee assailed , and taken after the same manner , which had beene no hard matter to performe , hee having but a small family , and the Castle not being furnished with Armes , the Earle of Crawford lying hard at hand with his dependers , and that whole Countrey being evill affected to him . But whether the Colonell had no Commission to take him , or that hee did not thinke of it , and thought hee had sped well enough already by taking Gowry , is uncertain : but however it were , hee went away with the prey hee had gotten without attempting any thing against Angus . And yet for all that , Angus was not altogether secure , knowing well his danger , and the small power hee had to defend himselfe : for in the day time hee went abroad a hunting , that they might not know where to finde him : and in the night , hee caused his servants to keepe watch , that hee might not bee surprized unawares . Within three dayes after , the Earle of Marre sent to him , to let him know , that the Master of Glames and hee had performed their part of the worke , had taken the Castle of Stirling , and were ready to wait upon his coming , which they entreated him to hasten . There was no choice , they were his true friends , and hee was no lesse theirs : and they were resolved to runne the same hazard in that course , from which there was no retiring for any of them . Angus desired the Lord Oglebee , and Master Oglebee of Powrie , with others of that name , to goe with him . They were allied to the Earle of Gowry , and were well affected to the businesse , as also they were his owne vassals ; but being terrified with Gowries taking , and thinking that their joyning with the Lords would incense the Courtiers to take some hard course with him , and not knowing what his minde was herein , they refused to goe . Hee notwithstanding , goeth with his owne family , from Brechin to Stirlin , and avoyding Perth , he crossed the river of Tay , at that place where it meets with Almont by boat , and comes to Inshechaffray , where he lodged with the Lord thereof , but could not perswade him to take part with them for the same reason , when he came to Stirling he was kindly welcomed by Marre , and the rest that were there ; and presently dispatched away letters , and messengers to Douglas , and other places , for his friends and dependers to come thither to him , with as great speed and diligence as they could . He wrote also to Robert Douglas ( eldest sonne to William Douglas ) of Logh-leven to the same purpose ; but the letter falling into the hands of his mother ( her name was Leslie ) she tooke upon her to answer it after this manner . It is not enough ( saith she ) for you to undertake so foolish a worke , whereby you cannot but ruine your selves , but you would also draw my sonne and house to the same destruction : I have hindered him , and laid my curse and malediction upon him , if hee take part with you , like as I doe upon you , if you make him disobey me . This letter moved him very much , and he caused an answer to be returned to her according as it merited , which was thus . I can very well beleeve that it is your doing to keep backe yo●…r sonne from so honourable an enterprise , knowing his owne disposition to bee alwayes honourable and noble , and such as of himselfe hee would not neglect , his duety either to his friends , or countrey . The Noblemen that are conveened here , have entered upon such a course as becomes them , for discharging their duetie both to God and man : what the event will prove , is knowne onely to God , and in his hands alone ; if wee perish herein , wee cannot perish more honourably . Yet wee hope that God , in whom we confide , and whose cause wee have taken in hand , will worke out our safety , and accomplish that which wee intend for the good of his owne Church ; when you and your house ( for which you are so solicitous , with the neglect of the house of God , and of all friendly duety ) shall finde the smart of such carelesse indifferency , and perish ( as we feare , and are sory for it ) through such carnall and worldly wisedome and warinesse . And so indeed the event proved more answerable to this prediction then he wished : for the Lords escaped into England ( for that time ) and were safe in their persons , and within a yeere and a halfe , they brought their designes to passe , ( which were now frustrate ) by Gods blessing upon them : but her sonne Robert , and her son in law Laurence , Master of Olyphant , being commanded to depart the Countrey , as they were sailing for France , perished at sea , and neither they nor the ship , nor any that belonged thereto , were ever seene againe , yet how it came to passe is uncertain . The most common report is , that being set upon by the Hollanders , and having defended themselves valiantly , they slew a principall man of the enemies ; in revenge whereof they sanke the ship , and all that were in her : Others say , that after they had yeelded themselves , they were hanged upon the mast . A pitifull case , but a notable example . The youthes were noble , active , and of great hope and expectation , and so great pitty of their losse . But it may shew us how little suretie there is in too great affecting of it ; as on the contrary , how perills are avoyded by hazarding and undergoing of perill . And their case is so much the more to bee pittied , and lamented ; as that they themselves were very unwilling to have followed such perverse wisedome , had they not beene forced to it by their mothers importunitie . The Lords proceeded as they could with their intended course . They caused set forth a Declaration , shewing their minde and purpose , together with the causes thereof , the abuses in Church and Common-wealth . They remonstrated what tyranny was exercised by James Stuart , under colour and pretext of the Kings will and pleasure ; how the Nobilitie , and men of all rankes , were vexed by him ; what mis-reports were made of them to their Prince ; what violence used against them ; what evils were presently felt , and what more were to be feared and looked for hereafter to ensue hereupon : The distraction of the hearts of the people from their Prince , and of the Prince from his people ; the blasting of the greatest hopes of vertue that ever was in a young Prince , and of his pietie , in the solid use of true Religion ; by working feare of the contrarie ; tyrannizing in government , and superficiall profession of Religion , yea of reducing Poperie , or ( which is worse ) of irreligion and Atheisme . They told how dea●…e their Religion , their Countrey , their Prince was to them ; what their owne estate and condition forced them to ; what the care of all these required of them , out of dutie , in regard of their place , being Nobles , and Peeres of the Land , and Privie Counsellours by birth ; how every man , according to his place , was bound to lend a helping hand , but chiefly those of the Nobilitie , yet not excluding either Barons , Burgesses , or men of whatever degree , ranke , or qualitie , when the common Ship of the State was in hazard , and in danger of being overwhelmed and perishing , and when there was such a fire kindled as would devoure all , if it were not quenched in time . How they , for their owne part , after long patience , seeing all things grow worse , had now at last ( being driven thereto by necessity ) called to minde what duty , conscience , God , and the station wherein God had placed them , did crave of them : which was , to endeavour , that wicked Counsellours ( namely James Stuart , called Earle of Arran , chiefe Authour of all the mischiefe ) might be removed from about his Majestie , after such a manner as they could best doe it . And since no accesse was free , and no man durst or would undertake to present their supplications to the King , which contained a true information of his owne estate , of the State of the Church and Countrey , together with theirs ; therefore they had conveened in Arms , not intending any hurt to their Prince ( whom they ever had honoured , and still did honour , and whose welfare was their chiefe end and aime ) or to wrong any good subject , but for defence of their owne persons , untill they should inform his Majestie of that which concerned him , and belonged to them to remonstrate unto him , either in his owne presence , or by a publick Proclamation , that so it might come to his eares , which otherwise these wicked Counsellours did and would hinder him from hearing : and that so it might come to the knowledge of all men , and move the hearts of such as had true , honest , and courageous hearts , to concurre with them in that so honourable and necessary a worke . Wherefore they exhorted all men that they would not , through fearfulnesse , or a vaine opinion of obedience to the pretended command of a Prince ( who then was best obeyed , when God was obeyed , and wickednesse punished ; who did then truly reigne , when wicked Councell was removed ) withdraw themselvs by lurking , & abandon the common good , in hope to provide for their own particular safety , which was not possible for them to doe at any time or in any case ; much lesse under such a man could there be any security for any good and honest man , he being so violent , proud , tyrannicall , unjust , and such a profane mocker of Religion , who would not be tied to , or guided by any law or reason , but was carried away by his owne appetite and ambition , and who was more fit to be the executioner of a bloudy Nero , then a Counsellour to such a just and Christian Prince : farre lesse to be sole Ruler and Commander of the Kingdome under the shadow of his Majesties authority , having so abused and polluted his name , who was so honoured in his cradle , and admired through the world for his hopefulnesse , and great expectation of all princely vertues . Whoso truly loued him , ought to concurre and lend their aid to plucke him out of the jawes of these worse then wilde beasts , that so his estate , kingdome , honour , and person ( both in soule and body ) might be preserved . This was the summe and straine of their Declarations and Letters sent abroad to move men to joyne with them in this businesse , but all was in vaine : for despaire of doing any good at this time had so possessed the hearts of all men , that even the best affected did choose to sit still , and lie quiet . The Earle of Gowries apprehending had so astonished them , and the incertaintie how to construe it did so amaze them , that all his friends ( who should have made up a great part of their forces ) as Athole and others , absenting themselves , others fainted and held off . Even Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , a man both zealously affected to the cause , and entirely loving the Actors ( Marre and Angus ) as being tied to them by bloud , alliance , and particular intimatenesse of friendship , though he were acquainted with their proceedings from time to time , and being prisoner in the Castle of Downe in Monteeth , might easily have e●…caped from thence , and come to them to Stirlin , yet did he avoid all medling therein , and would neither receive nor send message concerning that matter : yea , they themselves were contented that he should doe so in that generall desertion , having gained nothing by their Declaration and Remonstrance , save the publishing of their Apologie , which was not necessary to friends ( whose approbation they had already ) and wrought nothing upon others . For though the King had a copie thereof delivered into his own hand ( which they greatly desired , that thereby he might know the naked truth of things , and be truly informed of the Courtiers carriage and behaviour ) yet did it produce no effect to purpose : neither did they make any use thereof , that was known , either to informe and perswade the King of the things contained therein , or to reforme themselves . Wherefore now their whole thoughts ranne onely upon this , how to come off , their lives safe , and reserve themselves to a better and more convenient time : so incertaine is the event of all humane enterprises . The Courtiers failed not to make contrary Proclamations in the Kings name ; the bare shew whereof ( though there were but very few that favoured them or their proceedings in their heart ) was of such force , that men conveened thereupon out of all quarters . It was made in the strictest forme , commanding all that were able to beare Armes , from sixteene yeares of age to sixtie , to assemble themselves , and to bring with them provision of victuall for thirty dayes , to march whither the King should be pleased to direct them . Hereupon Francis Stuart Earle of Bothwell ▪ came with his forc●…s to Edinburgh , where the King was : but he being brother-in-law to the Earle of Angus ( having married his sister ) the Courtiers did not like of his company , and so he was commanded to returne home againe to his house . He was indeed of the Lords faction , and so were many others who obeyed the Kings proclamation , who , if they had had hearts and heads , were enow of themselves to have taken order with the Courtiers . But being dasht with feare of they knew not what ( if they had considered aright ) they looked upon one another , and so were forced to guard those men whom they could have wished to be hanged . The Town of Edinburgh were commanded to make out 500. Musketiers , which they did , and this was the Courtiers greatest strength , yet consisting of the vulgar , and such as had no obligation to binde their fidelitie to them , and ( if they had seen the Nobilitie & Gentry go about to take them in hand ) would not have made great opposition , nor have hazarded themselves for the Courtiers safety , in all likelihood . However , Colonell William Stuart is sent with 500. men to Fawlkirke , whereupon the Lords at Stirling went to a consultation to see what were best for them to doe . They had not with them above 300 ▪ men , which were their owne proper followers ; yet being resolute , willing , forward , and active Gentlemen , it was thought fittest by some to assaile him , and to punish his boldnesse and audacitie for taking such charge upon him , being but a meane Gentleman , to invade and come against the Nobility . Disdaine , anger , and courage seemed to approve of this resolution , that so his malapertnesse might be chastised and dashed . Neither were it without good use ; for if he were once defeated , the rest would make a halt , and not be so forward : that the first successe is of great moment , and might bring matters to a parley , or such as craved audience of the King to get it : that it was no hard matter to doe , he being accompanied by such as cared not for his personall safety , and had no tye to defend him with the hazard of their owne lives especially , but would be glad to have a faire excuse , and occasion to abandon such an one , in such a quarrell : especially if he were invaded in the night , the darknesse would excuse , and take away their shame of flying . It was argued of the other side , that night conflicts were subject to hazard , errour , and mistaking , as well on their owne side , as the enemies : and that it could not be performed without bloud , and that ( perhaps ) of the most innocent , whereas he himselfe , whom they chiefly aimed at , might escape : neither would the defeat of these few bring successe to the cause , the enemies forces remaining whole and entire in Edinburgh , which would guard and defend them : besides , by so doing they should be involved in a crime , and made obnoxious to the lawes , which as yet they were free of : that it were better to suffer the guiltie to goe unpunished for a while , then to spill the bloud of the guiltlesse : and seeing they could not thereby accomplish what they had intended , their best was to retire and withdraw themselves , with as great innocencie and modestie as they could , having done hurt to no man. This advice prevailed with them , and so they concluded to march in the night season toward Fawkirke , but so soone as they were gone out of the towne of stirling , to take the way that leadeth to Lanericke ; the which they did accordingly , leaving the Castle of Stirling in the custodie of David Hume of Argatie . Being in Lanerick , as they were refreshing themselves , and baiting their horses , word was brought them that a Troup of horsemen did approach : whereupon fearing that it was Colonell Stuart pursuing them , they took horse , and sent Archbald Douglas ( called the Constable , because he had beene Constable of the Castle of Edinburgh in the Earle of Mortons time , as hath beene shewed before ) to discover what they were . Hee finding that it was Johnstoun ( who had beene sent for to Edinburgh to assist against the Lords , and was dismist upon their retreat from Stirling ) went familiarly to him , fearing no harme , so much the rather , because Johnstoun and Angus were brothers by their mother . But Johnstoun either fearing that notice might be given to the Courtiers , and he challenged thereof , if he should let him goe ; or to get thankes , and shew his forwardnesse to their service , layes hold on him , and carries him immediately backe to Edinburgh , declaring what way he came into his hands , and what way the Lords had taken , delivering also Archbald their prisoner to be used at their pleasure , not looking for such cruelty from them as ●…e found . For they , partly to seale the justice of their cause by bloud , partly to make the greater alienation betwixt the brothers ( Johnstoun and Angus ) that being out of hope of reconciliation , he might be necessitated to cleave to their side : they thanke him in words for this his good office , and hang Archbald . The Earle of Angus , and the rest that were with him , being resolved to goe into England , tooke their way through Tweddale toward Branxton : from ●…hence passing through east Tiviotdale , they entred England on that hand . Calso , where the Earle Bothwell remained , was not farre out of their way ; wherefore as they passed by it , it being now night , hee came forth to them secretly , and had conference with them . Thereafter , as if hee had come to pursue them , there was a counterfeit chase made , and a counterfeited fleeing for the space of a mile , till they were on English ground . The next day they came to Berwicke , where they were received , and remained a certaine space . After their departure , the King went to Stirling with his forces , where the Castle was rendred by the Keepers , who forced the Captain to yeeld it absolutely , without condition of so much as their lives safe . So hee and three more were executed by the Courtiers suggestion . Here also the Earle of ▪ Gowrie was brought from Kenniel , and arraigned of high Treason , whereof being condemned by a Jurie , hee was beheaded . Neither did the forbearance of his friends to joyne with the Lords at Stirlin ( then in England ) procure him any favour ; whereas if they had joyned with them , and so strengthened their party , they might have terrified the Enemy , and obtained better conditions for him . Hee was executed the eight and twentieth day of April 1584. The points whereof he was convicted , were the fact at Ruthven ; and the late enterprise at Stirlin . His speech was short ; hee answered to the first , That he had a remission for it : and to the second , That there was no intention there against the King : onely they had purposed to remove those wicked men who abused him , and whose thirst of bloud hee wished that his death might quench . But they cared little for his speeches , and as little for his alliance , his Countesse being a Stuart of the house of Methven , toward whom and her children they shewed no respect at all , but used them with all incompassionate rigour and crueltie . For she coming to intreat for her self and her children ( in the time of the Parliament ) and having fallen down upon her knees before the King , shee was troden under foot , and left lying in a sound . From Stirlin they returned to Edinburgh , and there kept a Parliament the two and twentieth day of May , in which the Earle of Angus and 〈◊〉 , the late Earle of Gowrie , and the Master of Glames , with divers Barons , and others their associats were forfeited ; the fact of Ruthven con●…emned , the order of Church-government ( by Presbyteries , Synodes , and Generall Assemblies , which had been received , and publickly allowed in Scotland , all men swearing and subscribing thereto , and the oath translated into divers languages with great approbation of 〈◊〉 reformed Churches , and no small commendation of the King and Countrey ) forbidden and prohibited , and termed unlawfull conventions . And in place thereof the office of Bishops ( condemned by this Church as unlawfull , as an invention of mans braine , having no warrant of the word of God ) was reared up again and erected . Also Master Robert Montgomerie ( who had been excommunicated for accepting such an office ) was now released and restored to his place . There was strait inhibiting all men from speaking against these Acts , against the Kings proceedings , Counsellours , or Courtiers under highest paines . What shall the Ministers do here ? Shall they oppose ? That were to cast themselves into certain danger , and to expose themselves to the crueltie of cruell men , armed now with a colour oflaw . Should they keep silence ? hear with patience that order blaspemed , which they had approven , received , sworn to , and the contrary ( which they had detested , abominated , condemned ) set up and allowed , to their no small disgrace , and shame of the Countrey ; yea , to his Majesties discredit in forraine Nations ? and suffer a doore to bee opened to those corruptions , which had been kept out of the Church , both in doctrine & manners , by vertue of that order , which onely ( in their conscience ) was agreeable with Scripture ? This their zealous hearts could not endure : let all perill be silent , where conscience and Religion speak : let no enemy breathe out his threatnings , where the minde is set on God. So it came to passe here . For while the Acts were in proclaiming at the Market-Crosse of Edinburgh , the Pastours of that Towne , Master James Lowson , Master Walter Balcanquell , Master Robert Punt , taking their lives in their hands , went boldly and made publick Protestation against that Act of the erection of Bishops , as unlawfull , in many respects , whereof they took instruments . Hereupon they being menaced , to avoide their furie , Master Walter Balcanquell flees to Berwick , together with Master James Lowson : Thither came also after them Master James Carmichael ( Minister at Hadinton ) Master John Davison , and William ●…ird , Ministers of the Suburbs of Edinburgh , or some Churches neare to it : also Master Patrick Galloway , and Master James Melvin , with divers others of the Ministerie . Edinburgh being thus destitute of Pastours , Master Patrick Adamson ( Archbishop of Saint Andrews ) was brought to supply their places , and to maintaine the lawfulnesse of the office the seven and twentieth day of May , being Wednesday , which was an ordinary Sermon day , but on which the Courtiers were not ordinary auditours . But that day they would needs accompany their Bishop , and grace him with the Kings personall presence . Yet the people disgraced him by their absence ; they disdained to heare a Bishop , other than a Pastour , whose office is not ordained by GOD in the Scriptures , and was ejected out of the Church of Scotland ; wherefore being grieved to see this Wolfe in their true Pastours place , they go out of the Church and leave him to preach almost alone . Besides the common people , the Kings owne Ministers Master John Craig , and John Brand , also John Herriese ( with others ) preached against it , and were therefore summoned to appeare before the Councell the five and twentieth day of August ; where they were reviled and rebuked with bitter words , as sawcie and presumptuous fellowes : and being demanded how they durst speak against the Kings Lawes , they answered boldly , that they both durst and would speak against such Lawes as were repugnant to the word of GOD. Hereupon the Earle of Arran starting up suddenly upon his feet in a great rage , fell a swearing many an oath , and with a frowning countenance said unto them , that they were too proud to speak such language to the Councell ; adding , that hee would shave their heads , paire their nailes , and cut their toes , that they might bee an example to others . Then hee warnes them to compeir before the King himself at Falkland the foure and twentieth day of September ; where they were accused againe by the Earle of Arran ( then Chancellour ) for , breaking of the Kings injunctions , in not acknowledging nor obeying his Bishops . To which they answered , that Bishops were no lawfull office of the Church , having never beene instituted by Christ ; and that therefore they would not obey them ; nor no person else that would command without warrant of the word of GOD ; assuring him that GOD would humble all proud Tyrants that did lift up themselves against him : as for them , their lives were not so deare to them , but that they would bee contented to spend them in that cause . Arran arising from his seat , and sitting down on his knees , sayes to them scoffingly ; I know you are the Prophets of God , and your words must needs come to passe ; behold now you see me humbled and brought low . Well , well , ( saith Master John Craig ) mock on as you please , assure your selfe , GOD sees , and will require it at your hands , that you thus trouble his Church , unlesse you repent . Then they were remitted to the sixteenth day of November , and in the mean time Master John Craig was discharged to preach . About this time ( in November ) Master James Lowson died at London , meekly and sweetly as he had lived . Edinburgh had been all this while destitute of Pastours , and did want preaching at sometimes for the space of three weeks . This was very odious amongst the people , and now ( Master John Craig being silenced ) they were like to want oftner than they had done : to remedie this , the Archbishop of Saint Andrews was ordained to preach to them , and the Towne-Councell ordained to receive him as their ordinary Pastour . The Councell obeyed , but the people would not heare him , and when they saw him come up to the Pulpit , they arose , and went forth at the Church doores . The Ministers every where persisted to oppose that office , and by common consent appointed a Fast to be kept the foure and twentieth day of October , whereof they publickly and advowedly gave out these to be the causes : First , to stay the creeping in of Wolves ( meaning Bishops : ) Secondly , that GOD might send true Pastours : Thirdly , that he would repair the breaches and decayings of the Church ( which had been sometime the Lanterne of the world : ) Fourthly , that he might remove the causes of this decay ( tyranny , and the flatterie of Courtiers . ) This was plainer language than pleasant , they behooved to be wisely dealt with . There are two wayes to deal and work upon men : by fear and by hope : by terrifying and flattering ; they used both these toward them . Wee heard how the sixteenth day of November was appointed for their compearance : many therefore were warned against that day from divers parts . When they were conveened , they were pressed to allow of the Act concerning Bishops ; and in token of their approbation thereof , to promise and subcribe obedience to their Ordinary . To move them hereto , they partly flattered , and partly threatned them ; saying , That all was well meant , and no hurt intended to Religion : Who was so well affected to it as the King ? Who so learned among Princes ? Who so sincere ? That he would respect and reward the worthy and obedient : And by the contrary , no Stipend should be payed to him that refused ; but hee should be deprived , imprisoned , banished . When all this could not prevaile , they devise how to temper and qualifie their promise of obedience , which was conceived in these words ; You shall acknowledge and obey Bishops , according to the word of God. This seeming a restriction and limitation ( as if the meaning had been that they should allow of , and obey Bishops as far as the word of God allowed , and ordained them to be obeyed ) many took it for good Coyne , and were so perswaded of it , that some said in plaine terms , Bring a Cart full of such Papers , and we will subscribe them all . For to obèy such a Bishop in such a sort ( according to the word of GOD , that is , so far as the word of God commands to obey him ) is not to obey him at all : for the word of GOD commands not any obedience at all to such a Bishop : neither doth it ordain , acknowledge , or once name such a Bishop . Thus either truly deceived , or deceiving themselves , that they might redeeme their ease by yeelding , and cover their yeelding with an equivocation , they found that it was all in vaine ; for they were not admitted nor permitted to expound it in that sort ( whatsoever their meaning was ) but were forced to accept of the exposition which the Court and the Bishops did put upon it : who understood that phrase ( according to the word of God ) not as a limitation but affirmatively , wherein it was acknowledged that the word of God did command obedience to them ; and therefore they promised obedience according to that command . Notwithstanding of all this , divers stood out , and would no wayes be moved , neither by threatnings nor by promises to give the least shew of approbation directly or indirectly , by equivocation , or any other forme whatsoever ; but spake plainly against them , and prayed publickly for the banished brethren . Of these Master Nicholas Dagleish was one ; who thereupon was accused as too bold to pray for the Kings Rebels . He answered , that they were no Rebels , but true Subjects , who had fled from tyranny , and such as sought their lives by commanding them to doe against their conscience . Hee was empannelled , put to his triall by an assise , and was cleansed , in despite and maugre the Court ; so farre there remained conscience in men . But the Courtiers will not let him escape thus dry-shod ; they labour to finde a hole in his Coat another way : they search and finde that a Letter had come from Master Walter Balcanquell to his wife , which because shee could not well read the hand , shee had given him to read to her , and he had read it . Hereupon he is again put to an as●…se : and they , not daring to cleanse him , yet would they not finde him guilty , but desired him to come into the Kings will. Hee was contented to submit himself to the Kings pleasure ( for so much as concerned the reading of the Letter ) and so was sent to the Tolbooth , where hee remained three weeks , and was from thence sent to Saint Andrews . And thus went Church-matters ; In the civill government there was none now but the Earle of Arran , he lacked the name of King ; but hee ruled as absolutely , and commanded more imperiously than any King , under the shadow of the Kings authority , and the pretext that all that he did was for the Kings good and safety . Hee had gotten before the keeping of the Castle of Stirlin ; he behooved also to have the Castle of Edinburgh in his power . Alexander Ereskin ( Uncle to the Earle of Marre ) was Captain of it , hee must needs favour his Nephew and his Faction : wherefore it was taken from him , and given to Arran , who was also made Provest of the Towne . Hee was Chancellour of Scotland , and having put out Pitcairne , Abbot of Dumfermling , hee made Master John Metellane Secretary . Hee did whatsoever hee pleased ; if there were no Law for it , it was all one , hee caused make a Law to serve his ends . 〈◊〉 was observed , that his Lady said to one who alledged there was 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ●…or doing of what shee de●…red to have done ; It is no mat●… 〈◊〉 shee ) wee shall cause make an Act of Parliament for it . If 〈◊〉 ●…an re●…used to do o●… grant any thing hee craved , they were 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 bee tossed and vexed for it ; even the chief of the Nobility . 〈◊〉 , Cassils , and the Lord Hume were committed : Athole , be●…●…ee would not divorce from his wife , and entaile his estate 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the Earle , or Master of Cassils , because hee would not give 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 great summe of Money , under the name of a Loane : the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , because he would not give him his portion of Dirleton . 〈◊〉 ●…he Lord Maxwell ( then Earle of Morton ) was quarrelled , be 〈◊〉 hee would not excambe his Baronie of Pooke , and Maxwell ( 〈◊〉 ●…ld inheritance ) for a parcell of the Lord Hamiltons Lands , which we●…●…ow his by forfeiture . Many Lands had hee taken from many , but 〈◊〉 satisfied , ever seeking to adde possession to possession , 〈◊〉 was not impertinently remonstrated to him by John Barton Goldsmith , a wittie and free-spoken man. Hee had directed this Barton to ma●…e him a Seale , and to carve on it his Coat of Armes duely quartered according to his Lands and Honours . This he did pretty well to his contentment , but he left one quarter thereof blank and void . Hereof when the Earle asked the reason , he answered , That there may be room for the Lands your Lordship shall purchase hereafter . Hee took for his Motto , Sic fuit , est , & erit : m●…ning that it was an ordinary thing in all ages for meane men to rise to great fortunes ; and that therefore it ought not either to bee wondred at , or to be envied . And it is true , if the meane had been vertue and not wickednesse , which ever was , is , and will be both envied and hated , as it deserveth . His ambition was such ( amongst other examples thereof ) that Queen Elizabeth must needs bee God-mother to his daughter , whose Ambassadour was present at the Christening . His crueltie ( though conspicuous many wayes ) did appear singularly in the causing execute Master Cunninghame of Drummewhasle , and Master Douglas of Maines , his sonne-in-law . This Cunninghame was an ancient Gentleman , and of an old house , who ( himself in person ) had beene a follower of the Earle of Lennox ( the Kings Grandfather ) and had done him good service when he took in the Castle of Dumbartan , and Douglas of Maines was esteemed to bee one of the properest men in the Kingdome , and was a youth of good expectation : yet both of them were hanged at the Market Crosse of Edinburgh . The pretext was a forged conspiracie to have taken the King on a certain day at hunting , and to have carried him into England . Their accuser was Robert Hamilton of Inshemachon , who was ( as hee said ) himself upon the plot , or at least ( as hee said ) had been desired to bee of it by Master Edmiston of Duntreath . Edmiston being apprehended , related ; How they had plotted to bring in the exiled Lords on horses ( forsooth ) which had their eares , their maynes , and their tails cut , themselves being disguised , &c. A tale which was so unhandsome , toyish , and ridiculous , that no man did beleeve it , but esteemed it a foolish fable ; yet did they make use of it , to practise their crueltie upon such as they feared , and to make themselves a terrour to all men . To returne to the Earle of Angus , he and his associats were removed from Berwick to New-castle , in May. So it seemed good to the State of England ( seeing no appearance of their hastie restoring to their own Countrey ) to secure the Court of Scotland , by taking that thorn out of their foot , which was too near , and too pricking at Berwick . Besides , these banished Lords were not greatly liked of by the Lord Hunsden , then Governour of Berwick : for hee entertained correspondencie with the contrary Faction ; either out of his own inclination , or being directed so to do for reasons of State , or for both ; hee so inclining , and the State of England making use of that his inclination , that by him they might understand and make use of the mysteries of the Court of Scotland , and such as guided it . But our Courtiers being rid of the fear of the Lords so near neighbourhood , did the freelier vent themselves , and discover their wayes , and by discovering , bewray their wickednesse , and disgrace themselves . As they went to New-castle , they visited by the way , Lord John Hamilton , and Claud of Paslay ( his brother ) at Widdrington , the place of their abode . There had been some variance betwixt them , but now being all involved in the same case of banishment , it was to no purpose to entertain and keep in t●… sparkle of discord , and therefore they were reconciled . Being come to New-castle , they stayed there a while , not so much to enterprise any thing from thence upon any ground they had laid already , as to wait for any occasion that should be offered . Here did the Earle of Angus his kindenesse and bountifull disposition toward all men plainly shew it self . For hearing that the Ministers were come to Berwick , hee caused a Letter to bee written , and sent to them , from them all in common ; and hee himselfe wrote particularly to them besides , and caused the rest of the Nobilitie to write also their private Letters , wherein many arguments were used to perswade them to come to them . Especially hee wrote very earnestly to Master James Lowson , and Master James Carmichael , not neglecting any of the rest , fitting his argument according to his acquaintance and relation , and according to the persons of the men ; pretending some such cause and necessitie of their coming , as hee thought would bee most effectuall to move them ; but the true cause which moved him to send for them , was , because hee thought they all stood in need of supply in necessaries . Besides , hee caused one that was with him , whom hee knew to bee very intimate with Master James Lowson , to write to him for the same effect ; and to tell him , that hee longed to see him : and when Master James excused himselfe , alledging that hee behooved to stay at Berwick , because hee expected some things from Scotland , hee would not accept of his excuse , nor of the interpretation thereof , ( that hee meant of Books that were to bee sent to him ) but caused returne him answer , that hee took it ill that hee should think to lack any thing where hee was . Wherefore hee entreated him to make haste to come to him , by doing of which , hee should do him a singular pleasure . Hee dealt even so with others also , and sought pretences to put curtesies upon them . David Ereskin Abbot of Drieburgh , being an exceeding honest , modest , and shamefast man , and who had ever been readier to give , than to take from any , and Angus fearing that hee would not ( out of his bashfulnesse ) take any curtesie directly from him , found out this way to fasten it upon him . Hee pretended that hee had some Tithes of Lands in Tweddale , which belonged to his Abbacie of Drieburgh , for which hee did owe him some arrearage duties and meales , which hee would needes pay him , and under that colour gave him what he listed to take , without acquittance . The Mini●…ers were for a long time wholly maintained by him , and he extended his liberalitie , not onely to supply their necessities , but even to furnish them with what Bookes they desired to buy . And indeed there was no man that wanted in that company , who did not taste of his bountie . At last when all was gone ( for it could not last alwayes ) hee said to one with whom hee was pleased to bee familiar , with a chearfull countenance ; Now it is gone , and fare it well , I never looked that it should have done so much good . Meaning , that being acquired by more rigorous exacting than either hee himselfe could allow of , or the common people took well , by the Earle of Morton in his Regencie ( for this was his treasure , at least that part of it which came to his hands ) hee doubted whether it should have had such a blessing as to have done so much good to so many honest men . Neither was this lavishnesse in him , or superfluous waste so to bestow it , in regard that their English allowance was spare enough , and oftentimes very slowly furnished unto them : So that having occasion to use moneyes , and not knowing from whom to borrow any , hee was forced to employ one of his followers to borrow from Master Archbald Douglas on his owne credit ( for my Lord himselfe would not be beholding to him , nor use him so familiarly ) two hundred pounds Sterling , which hee lent very courteously upon the Gentleman 's owne Bond , knowing well enough that it was for my Lords use . This was repayed to him when their allowance came in . While they remained at New-castle , Master John Colvill was sent to attend at Court about their affaires , partly because of his acquaintance there with Secretary Walsinghame and others ; partly by the advice of the Master of Glames , whose opinion and recommendation the rest did much respect . He fed them with hopes ; and upon occasion of the preparing and rigging forth the Queenes Navie , hee did insinuate by his Letters , as if there had been some intention to have sent it into Scotland for their behoof , which some did beleeve . But they could not perswade the Earle of Angus of it , he esteemed it but a dream , as it was indeed no other . When that hope was vanished , and there was no appearance of any thing to be done of a sudden , one ( whom he was pleased to use familiarly ) seeing no great use of his remaining there , told him , that he had a desire to go to London , being loath to spend that time idlely , that there he might the better advance his private studies and exercises , as in a place more fit for bettering himselfe therein . Hee most willingly and lovingly consented to the motion , not onely to satisfie his desire herein , but having a reserved intention to imploy him in their common businesse , as occasion should serve , or at least in his own particular to his particular friends ; which purpose he concealed then , but shewed it afterward . Hee had almost over di●…iked Master John Colvill , and did many times in private complaine , That hee could not finde that sinceritie in him which hee wished , and which ( he said ) was seldome to bee found in any such as hee was , who had left the Function of the Ministerie , to follow the Court and worldly businesse . And for him in particular , he said , hee was a busie man , thrusting himselfe into all affairs ; and who sought onely his particular ends in doing of publick businesse , without sinceritie or uprightnesse ; which ( sayes hee ) when it is wanting , I know not what goodnesse can bee in him ; and if it bee not to bee found in the world ( as they say it is not ) I know not what can bee in the world but miserie . For mine own part , my heart cannot like of such an one , nor of such dealing . It is true , hee hath traffiqued with the States-men of England , and others think fit to use him , neither will I contest with them about it , but truly I have no delight in such men . But this was after at Norwich . For that time hee said no more , but desired him to write often to him , both concerning businesse as hee could learn , and other things , as hee should also write to him upon occasion . This was performed on both sides , after such a private and secret way , as they agreed upon before their parting . For howsoever there was nothing passed betwixt them , but what might have endured the censure of any man , yet was it not fit that every man ( into whose hands their Letters might have falne ) should know all that was written familiarly betwixt them , though the matter were never so good , sincere , and unblameable ; in regard that many are incapable of things , many not able to discerne or judge of them , many contemners and mockers , many of a different , and some of a contrary minde and judgement . If the●…e Letters were extant , there were nothing more fit to shew the Lineaments of his minde and most inward thoughts , and to represent to the life his true disposition , without all mask of dissimulation ( from which he was ever free ) or shadow of ceremonious reservednesse , which even the best men ( for some one respect or other ) are forced to draw over their inclinations , and wrap up , and obscure their meaning in it at some times , especially in publick . Besides , they would also conduce to cleare some historicall points more fully , which neither can ones memory serve to do , nor can any other ( now alive ) supply so certainly and unsuspectedly . Now wee can but grieve for this losse . To supply which defect ( so farre as they can doe it ) wee will set downe one or two of those that were written to him , which being answers to his ( and containing so much of them , as that the summe and substance of them may bee gathered from thence ) will beare witnesse of his Noble , and Honourable disposition . The first was written in October ( one thousand five hundreth eightie and foure ) the first yeare of his banishment to Newcastle , where hee still remained as then . Please your Lordship , I Received your letter dated in September . Master James hath promised to seeke out those bookes of which your Lordship wrote to him ; and is in good hope to come by some of them , though it bee harder to finde them out then it was not long agoe . Other things I hope your Lordship is advertised of at length , by Master John Colvill . What bookes these were , and what Master James this was is quite forgotten , save that it would seeme to have beene Master James Carmichael , whom hee imployed in things of this kinde for most part . But this being onely for show ( that the paper might not seeme blanke , if it had fallen into such hands as would have opened the letter ) the maine businesse was written in such darke and unperceiveable manner , that none could reade it , but such as were acquainted with the wayes thereof . And thus it was : I have read your Lordships letter , and am very glad that my opinion did so jump with your Lordship concerning that point , whereof you wrote that you have not beene forgetfull , and that you minde to hold your ground as neare as can bee , from which you thinke that other matter to bee so farre different , and so contrary to all reason , that no man ( as you beleeve ) will propound it to you directly . That which made mee feare that it would bee propounded ( besides the speeches sounding that way ) was the end of your Lordships letter ( written before ) wherein you make mention , that some thought it necessary for your cause , that yee should enter with them into some strait , and indissolvable bond . This I tooke to bee a mean to trie your Lordships minde : First , in that generall , that afterward they might come to the particular , which would bee , that the best way to make it strait and indissolvable ; were to have it of your Lordships hand-writing . For as concerning the lawfulnes thereof , it did seem to some unlawfull ( as I wrote to your Lordship at greater length ) and I had heard also generally that there was some scruple made by your Lordship to enter into bond with them . And because ( if I be well remembred ) before your comming from Scotland , you were resolved to receive them into the societie of that common action , and to compose any particular of your owne which you had against them ; I did the rather thinke that some new occasion had occurred , which had made you nice and difficult to it now . And if I have failed in my conjecture of the cause , it is no wonder that ( not having knowledge of the particular circumstances whereof you now write ) I lighted upon that which seemed to me would breed greatest difficultie in this . If it be not so , I am contented to be deceived , & could wish that every mans minde that shall have hand in that action , were as upright as your Lordships , then we might hope that it would prosper so much the better . However , I cannot omit to put your Lordship in minde of this generall caveat , to take heed , and have a care , that whatever bond be made , it may bee perspicuous , cleare , plaine , and as particular as may bee : for the more particular it be , it is the better for your Lordship , who meaneth uprightly , and for all others that have the same meaning , and who doe desire that their upright dealing may be evident unto all men . It will also ( being such ) bee lesse obnoxious and subject to the calumnies and sinister interpretation of the adversary and enemies , who may seeke to traduce your Lordship , and make you odious thereby . It will likewise bee freest , and not lyable to the sinister glosse , and wrong interpretations of those , who shall bee bound by it , if they should ( perhaps ) hereafter seeke any evasion or subterfuge to frustrate it , and make it void through the generality or ambiguitie thereof . And by the contrary , where a bond is couched in obscure , generall , and doubtfull words , it is both more easie for them , who list to deale after that sort , to elude it by some wrested construction ; as also for such as would calumniate your Lordships intention , to finde greater colour to doe it . Concerning which purpose , I remember a distinction which the Earle of Gowry made , upon occasion of the bond which your Lordship remembers was presented to him to have signed it : It is ( said hee ) very good , and well penned , but it is too prolixe to be a Bond , and too short to bee a Proclamation , or Declaration : for a Bond ( said hee ) ought to bee short , and generall ; but a Proclamation or Declaration , would contain the particulars . I was then , and still am of a contrary minde : for I thinke a Bond should bee cleare , and speciall , and contain the causes of their binding ; and that a Manifesto or Declaration should bee conformable to it , and the very same in substance and effect , having the selfesame reasons and narration ; onely it ought to bee amplified with admonitions and exhortations , which are not proper nor per●…ent for a Bond. And I beleeve no man can shew mee what inconvenience can follow upon the prolixitie of a Bond , unlesse it bee the greater pains of the Writer ; which is recompensed with this great advantage , that being drawne up at large , it needeth no other Expositour , or Pleader for it , b●… doth expound and justifie it selfe . And your Lordship knoweth what great necessitie and neede there is of this circumspection in this case , that the very band it selfe be an exposition and justification of it selfe , into whose hands soever it shall happen to come . For its owne interpretation of it selfe cannot be rejected , when no other will be admitted to expound it . For this purpose let them that please reade and consider the Memorials of France , of the Low-Countreyes , and of Germany in the beginning of their Reformation : they shall see that the tenour of all these bands , containes ample declarations of the causes wherefore , and the reasons moving them to joyne themselves together in that kinde of association , as also for what end they did it , so that no Declaration can bee more large . But I did declare my opinion to your Lordship in the like matter long agoe ; and I doubt not , but , if it shall please your Lordship to weigh and consider it , you shall easily finde how necessary it is ( for many respects ) that into whatsoever band you enter , it be cleare and particular . Whereas it pleases your Lordship to write , that if you can finde a fit occasion ( whereof you also have some hope ) you will cause employ me here , and withall you adde ( That none should refuse to further the businesse all they can ) I am not so ignorant , or forgetfull of my duty , as either directly or indirectly to refuse that service , or any other your Lordship shall be pleased to command mee . But I see there are divers others who seeme to be so diligent , that my paines will not be very needfull , as I doubt not but your Lordship knowes sufficiently . When it pleases them at any time , in halfe words , and darke speeches ( like parables ) obscurely to signifie ought to me of the State of businesse , they appeare and seeme to mee so deepe and profound mysteries , as I can no wayes understand or know what to make of them . Wherefore I am very well contented that I am free of them , and to be a beholder of all , leaving the managing thereof to those who know these obscure grounds better , and like better of them , then ( it may bee ) I should doe , in regard of their deepnesse . I had rather employ my time upon other thoughts farre more pleasing to mee ( where dutie rightly considered calls mee not from them ) then businesse of that nature . They are not desirous of any companion or copartner in their travels , nor am I desirous to encroach upon their labours , or the labours of any man , or to bereave him of the fruit of his paines and industry , by intruding my selfe thereupon , and to bee a sharer with him in the good successe of his endeavours , if they shall happen to bee successefull . And as little am I willing ( if there be no appearance of the prospering of it ) to take the worke out of their hands , which is ( perhaps ) marred already ; or to enter in at the broad side , upon grounds already laid by them with this State , wherewith I have not beene ( as yet ) so throughly acquainted as were needfull for one to prosecute their worke dexterously , and to purpose . However , I doe not speake this to prejudge your Lordship , or that I meane to shunne any burden you shall bee pleased to lay upon mee , and I am able to undergoe ( whatever it be ) but onely to tell my minde freely , that I had rather ( if it were in my choice ) your Lordship would employ me in any particular of your owne , which might give me occasion to visit master Secretary ( for your Lordship knows how ill I can trouble any man without an errand ) and if upon that occasion he should happen to speake of the publicke businesse , I should manage the opportunity the best I could . However , my dutifull service ever remembred to your Lordship in what I can , in this mind and disposition ( which your Lordship knows ) and leaving you and all to be rightly managed by that God , who certainly can , and assuredly will manage all things rightly , in whom I rejoyce alwayes to see your Lordship so depend , I rest in him , &c. The other Letter ( the onely extant of many ) was written long after from London also , but to Norwich , whither he was then come from Newcastle . It is dated the 20. of March following , in the yeare 1584. Please your Lordship , SInce the writing or my other , the Earle of Lancaster hath beene ( most part ) from Court at his owne house . On Saturday hee returned , and I attended all that day , and the next day ( till 12. of the clocke ) but in vaine . At last , when he came to Westminster , I got speech of him with great difficulty in the Councell chamber , by the meanes of one master Baptist ( one of his chiefe Gentlemen ) who professeth to love your Lordship entirely . I delivered your Lordships Letter to him , and declared the credit : it was courteously received , with many loving words concerning your Lordship : That in that , and all other things , he would doe for your Lordship what lay in his power : that his affection to your Lordship was no whit changed , but remained the same that it was of old , and that it should appeare he was no lesse carefull of you then he had beene before . I went after that to Sir P●…ilip Sidney , who so soone as he saw me , ( of his owne accord , before I spake to him ) told me , That he had not beene unmindfull of your Lordships businesse ; that he had spoken of it to Leicester , and the Secretarie , and that he would not forget it , but doe in it all that could be done . I wrote to your Lordship before , what cold hopes I had to speed herein , and the cause thereof . Now I am put in better hope by divers : That your Lordship shall be licensed to come up , and that the Ambassadour will insist against you , concerning which matter I shall shew your Lordship farther ( God willing ) at meeting . He is gone this day to Court upon occasion of Letters which hee received on Saturday at night : what they beare I have not yet learned . Onely I heare no word of any alteration or stirring in Scotland , as it was reported , save that in the generall there is an universall feare and envie at Court amongst themselves , and in the Countrey every where , of every man against his neighbour . However it bee , if I bee not mistaken , this motion ( of your Lordships comming up hither ) is occasioned by these last Letters : and ●…et it is said even by some of their favourers , that they thinke verily that your Lordship hath great wrong done unto you : which speeches argue but small hope to prove , yea , or to colour their pretended accusations , and that they diffide and distrust , that they shall be able to doe it . And most men thinke , that if there bee nothing wrung out of John Hume , by some one means or other ( as there is no cause to doubt of the Gentlemans honesty and constancy ) they will have no subterfuge for their false allegations , which must needs tend to your Lordships good and honour , clearing your innocency , and confuting the calumnies of your enemies . I received a letter , by Master James Melvine , and Master Walter Balcanquel , ( who arrived here on friday last ) declaring the couragious and constant death of Maines , who gave testimony of your Lordships innocency and loyall affection to his Majestie , by his last words . There was no other new matter of importance in it , being dated the 18. of February , not long after your Lordships coming from Newcastle . But I shall have no more intelligence that way ; for the Authour is forced to flee hither , having been searched for , and escaped narrowly . Hee was delated by the confession of William ●…ray ( my brother Wedderburnes servant ) who being booted , confessed he had delivered him a letter from me . It is done by Manderston , to make it reflect upon my brother ; and he ( to recriminate ) hath accused his son George ; and it is thought he will be able to prove it by George Hume of Cramnicrook : John Johnston is also fled , and great summes of money offered for him : this other letter will shew what comfort I may expect from Scotland ; or he , who is now in the same case . There is sure word from France , that the Duke of Guise is in the fields with an Army of 30000. or 40000. men : some say against the King ; maniest , against Navarre , or Geneva . So ceasing to trouble your Lordship , I rest , &c. Out of these may be seen the honest and honourable dealing , together with the right and loyall disposition of the Earle of Angus , whatever hath been set abroche or intended by any other : as it is clear there have been some other motions made to him , which his heart could not incline to , nor his minde dispense with . For certainly , this feare could not arise without some great occasion ; and what it hath been , or whether it did tend , as also who are likeliest to have been Authours of it , though it may be conjectured in some sort probably , yet I will leave it to every mans consideration of the circumstances and persons who were upon this course of joyning together . For my taske being at this time to draw , ( though with a rude hand ) as I can , the true draughts of this Noblemans minde , whom I have now in hand . I could not omit this piece , whereby ( though there were no more to bee found of him ) this generall may appeare , that duetie , justice , and vertue , were the men of his counsell , and the square by which hee ruled all his actions , from which , no extremity or hard estate , could ever divert him or drive him away ; but to touch upon any other man , or glance at any thing which might rubbe a blot upon any , is besides my purpose , and no wayes incumbent to mee . But to returne , it fell out with them according to this last letter : for as they were removed from Berwick to Newcastle , to secure the Scottish Court ; so Newcastle being not so farre from Edinburgh , but that within twentie foure houres ( or little more ) they could have been there upon a necessary occasion , the Courtiers were put in feare by others , or faigned and imagined feares to themselves , for taking away of this ( suggested , or apprehended ) feare , as they had been removed from Newcastle to Norwich ; so now they are brought from thence to London , as was pretended , to answer to the Embassadours accusation , but indeed , to advise with him of the way , how they might be restored to their Countrey , and the Countrey rid of Arran , who was now become odious both to Court and Countrey . It is a true saying , That there is no society amongst Pirats without Justice : for if the Arch-Pirate take all to himselfe , or if hee divide not the prey equally , the rest will kill or forsake him . The Earle of Arran knew not this rule , or regarded it not : for in parting of the spoile of these Noblemen , their lands , their goods , honours , government , and places of Command , hee dealt them unequally ; drawing most to himselfe , and in Councell and guiding of the State , he was the onely figure ( or number ) and the rest were but ciphers and instruments to execute his decrees . There were then at Court ( of greatest note ) the Master of Gray , a near Kinsman to the late Earle of Gowry , and of the ancient Nobilitie , who did hate and disdain Arran , for that he had beene Authour of the death of his deare friend , seized on his lands , and did presumptuously take upon him to govern the whole Countrey alone , being but newly raised to bee noble . There was also Sir Lewis Ballandine ( of kinne likewise to Gowry ) an ancient depender on the house of Angus : and Master John Metallane ( Secretary ) who had beene indeed an enemy to the Earle of Morton , and was well contented that Arran should be imployed to work his ruine ; but he could not away with his peremptory , and absolute domineiring . These were the actours and great instruments of his fall : Gray , directly , and of purpose , the other two by conniving and being conscious to the plot , yet so as they would have seemed not to know of it , and they did rather give way to it , then worke it . They all thought it reason , that they should ( at least ) have their share of the spoil in a fit proportion ; but they could not have it any wayes proportionable to their esteem of themselves . There was besides these , Francis Earle Bothwell , who ( amongst other causes of discontentment ) was grieved at the banishment of the Earle of Angus , his Ladies brother . Alexander Lord Hume had been discarded for being thought to be his friend : Sir George Hume of Wedderburn , and Sir James of Coldenknowes were knowne and professed friends to the Earle of Angus : and Wedderburnc was of kinne to the Master of Glames , and allied to the house of Marre . Robert Carre of Cesford was also of the party , what out of love to Angus , what for emulation with the house of Farnhaste , who were on the other faction . His Uncle the Provest of Linclowdan ( Douglas to his name ) was a speciall stickler in the businesse : hee was very familiar and intimate with the Secretary ( Metellane ) who without his advice did almost nothing . But above all , the Lord Maxwell ( made Earle of Morton ) entred into open hostilitie : for being charged to compeare , he disobeyed and refused ; and by intelligence with the banished Lords hee levied souldiers , slew one Captain Lammie , that was sent against him , with his companies , whom Johnston did assist . Hereupon a Proclamation was set forth in the Kings name , that all that were able to beare armes , should come and follow the King , who was to pursue him in person the 24. of October . These and many others ( and indeed the whole Countrey ) agreeing in this conclusion , that Arran was to bee removed from the helme of governement , which hee steerd so ill : the Master of Gray was sent Ambassadour into England , and had broken the businesse with the Lords concerning their returne , and his removeall . Now Sir Lewis Ballandine is sent up Ambassador with Commission to accuse them of a conspiracy , detected by Duntrethes deposition : Hereupon they are sent for from Norwich , to make answer to it . The Master of Glames being of greatest age and learning , they made choice of him to plead their cause before a certain number of the Councellours of England , deputed by the Queene to heare and judge of it . Their owne innocencie , the abilitie of the pleader , and the favour of the Judges meeting together , made them to be easily absolved , notwithstanding , that the Ambassadour did his best in framing , and pressing his accusation to the full , to discharge his Commission every way . It is a pretty sport to consider the proceedings of the world , and what masques and vizards men doe put on sometimes to cloake their designes . With what respect and reverence did they carry themselves towards my Lord Ambassadour ? and with what strangenesse and aversation did he looke upon them ? One day as the Earle of Angus was walking into the fields for his recreation , he encountered the Ambassadour coming from Tuttle-fields in a narrow lane , ere he came near , he espied him , and knowing it was he , hee called to his servants to give way to my Lord Ambassadour , and he himselfe standing aloofe with cap in hand , made a low reverence to his Lordship as he passed by . The Ambassadour again acted his part finely , remembring his place , the person hee represented , and the errand for which he was sent ( to be his accuser ) with a countenance which did beare anger and grief in it to see the Kings rebells , hee turned away his face , and would not so much as looke on that side of the street , notwithstanding that hee both loved and honoured him in his heart , and was even then laying the ground-work of his restitution . Hee being gone home , the plot went forward in Scotland . England was no better affected toward Arran , then his owne Countrey was : they did altogether dislike of him , and suspected his wayes , they conceived that he did prosecute the Guisian plots begunne by Obignie , and which had beene interrupted by his disgrace , and discourting . And yet they acted their part also , bore faire countenance and correspondence with him , and he with them , but all was but dissimulation , and like a stage play . The Lord Hunsdon Governour of Berwick , and Warden of the Marches on that hand , paid him home in his owne coine , and entertained a shew of friendship with him , but no more . Divers meetings they had upon the borders , and many fair promises were made by Arran , to keep back England from favouring or aiding the Lords : That the King should bee at the Queens devotion , that he should follow her advice in all things , that hee should not marry without her consent , and that hee should make a league with her , offensive , and defensive . The Master of Gray , Ambassadour , had promised so much , but when the English urged the performance of it , it was a jeast to see their fine shifting . The Master of Gray put it upon Arran , Arran upon the Master of Gray , and the King professed that neither of them had warrant or direction from him to say any such thing , and therefore he was not tied to make it good : they were too sharp and quick sighted not to see through greater clouds . In the mean time it fell out at a meeting of the Wardens ofthe of the middle-marches , that Sir Francis Russell ( sonne to the Earle of Bedford ) was killed , whether by chance or of set purpose , is uncertain . This did alienate them from the Courtiers , and joyned them to the Lords , whom they knew to be honest , true , and trusty , and therefore they wished well to them , and helped forward their interprise endirectly all they could . While matters were thus in working , the Lords remained still at London , and were lodged at a place appointed to them ( called long-ditch , near Saint James Parke , whither the banished Ministers resorted , and kept continuall exercise of preaching , praying and fasting ( on occasion ) in a private manner , without ostentation or notice thereof in publicke , being done within their lodging onely . There was a motion made to the Counsell of England , that there might be a particular Church allowed , and allotted unto the Scots , as the French , Italians , and Dutch , have their Churches apart : but it was not granted , they being unwilling ( apparantly ) that being of one language , our discomformitie with their ceremonies should appeare to the common people . This grieved us greatly , and especially Master James Lowson , who partly for that , partly because of a letter written to him from the towne of Edinburgh , ( in which they did unkindly reproach his flying into England as a de●…ertion , and did renounce him for their Pastour , calling him a Wolfe , who had fled without just cause , and had joyned himselfe with rebells , and such other calumnies , as Bishop Adamson had endited , and caused the Provest and towne Counsell signe ) he sickned and died , being much lamented , both of English , Scots , and all that knew and were acquainted with him . Notwithstanding that they could not obtain a peculiar Church , yet the Lievetenant of the Tower , being acquainted with some of our Ministers , he desired them to preach in his Church within the Tower ( which is a priviledged place , and without the jurisdiction of the Bishops ) and many of the people came thither to hearethem . Amongst other exercises , Master Andrew Melvine read Lectures in Latine upon the old Testament , beginning at Genesis , which were much frequented ; and the Earle of Angus was a diligent Auditour , and a painfull repeater of them for his owne use and contentment . But now the negotiation of their returne being farre advanced , and come even to the maturitie and full ripenesse , Angus , Marre , the Master of Gl●…mes ( with a few onwaiters ) take post from London , and came with all expedition to the Borders . They had composed their differences with the Lord Maxwell , and the Lord Hamilton , and so all were to joyne in the common businesse , with one heart and hand , as one man. Before Angus came from London , he wrote to his friends in Scotland after this sort : You have now knowne by M. John ( Colvill as I think ) that wee stay here only till wee receive new advertisement from the Provest of Lincluden , in name of the rest of our friends that should joyne with us in that Countrey ; after the receit whereof we mean not to stay , but immediatly to come down ; wherefore be ye not unready , seeing others will be forward enough , as we beleeve . At our first coming we mean to be quiet two or three dayes , in which space I mean to speak with some principals , and by their advice to go more plainly to our purpose . This State will not seeme openly to know our designes ; but wee are to receive some help of Moneyes , for so it is promised . Sir William Russell shall also joyne with us as a male-content , having been of late ill used by that State ( in killing Sir Francis ) but not as having any command so to do . If matters go on , we minde to enter on both hands . Hamilton and Maxwell shall enter on the West-borders , Angus and Marre at the East , with such as will joyne with them there . Thus did it please him to speak of himself in the third person , howbeit it was written all with his own hand . But Sir William Russell did not joyn with them . Angus , Marre , and the Master of Glames came to Calsoe , and remained there with the Earle Bothwel two or three nights . Thither came the Lord Hume , Sir George Hume of Wedderburne , and others of their friends ; and with common consent from thence they went to Jedbrugh , where they made their coming known , and professed their intentions . Upon the report hereof , Colonell Stuart was sent against them with such forces as he could get , and came to Peebles ; but he found that he had not to doe with irresolute and lingering folks , as the Earle of Gowrie , nor with such deserted and abandoned men as had fled from Stirlin , and therefore he retired in due time , to tell tidings of the certainty of their coming . They took their journey toward Hamilton , and there joyned the Lord Hamilton and the Lord Maxwell ; and so altogether marched to Fawkirk . They caused publish Declarations every where , containing their intentions , and justifying their proceedings , which are set down word by word in the History of Scotland , written by Holinshed an English-man ; who pleaseth , may read it there . The summe is not unlike to that which was made before at Stirlin ( when they fled to England ) onely such things were added thereto , as had fallen out since then , in the time of their abode there . As namely ; First , The proceeding by cruelty under the shadow of the Kings name , whose Predecessours did commonly labour to winne the hearts of his Subjects by clemencie : Secondly , The executing , imprisoning , banishing ( by wrested Lawes ) the worthiest , most ancient , and the most faithfull ( to G O D and the King ) both Noblemen and Barons : Thirdly , Acts and Proclamations published , inhibiting Presbyteries & other exercises , priviledges and immunities allowed by Parliament , or practised and permitted by laudable custome of the Church , without which , purity of Doctrine , & the right form of Ecclesiastical discipline cannot continue : Fourthly , compelling & forcing the most learned and most religious men , and such as were of most entire life & conversation , & of most sincere conscience , to forsake their Countrey ; or inhibiting them to preach , and defrauding them of their Stipend , by violence : Fifthly , the entertaining of Jesuites , and executers of the Decrees of the cruell Councell of Trent : Sixthly , obdurate Papists having place in Session , and honest men removed , an evident proof and presage of intention to root out the true Religion : Seventhly , the thrusting of Magistrates upon Burrows ( contrary to their priviledges ) which were neither free of the Townes , nor fit to discharge the place in their persons : Eighthly , the secret practices of James Stuart , and the Colonell , to turne the love and amitie which hath been now of a long time entertained with England ( very happily ) into open hostility , having had intelligence with such persons as sought the Queen of Englands destruction : a point confessed by divers her Rebels , executed in England , and which appeared by the slaughtering of the Lord Russell , a man noble in birth , honourable by vertue , zealous in Religion , of great expectation , and a speciall friend and lover of Scottish men , notwithstanding that they had made shew of the contrary for certaine moneths , and had pretended to enter into an offensive and defensive League with her . The conclusion was , Wee command and charge in our Soveraign●… Lords name ( as his born Counsellours , who are bound in dutie to be carefull of his welfare , honour and reputation , for which we have our Lands and Inheritances ) all and sundry his subjects , to further and assist this our godly enterprise , to concurre with us , and so to give testimony of their affection to the true Religion , his Majesties welfare , and publick peace and quietnesse of this Realme . It contained also certification , That such as should attempt any thing to their contrary , yea , that did not take plaine and open part with them , should bee reputed as partakers of all vice and iniquitie , as assisters of the said treasonable Conspiratours , ( James and William Stuarts ) and enemies to Religion , to his Majestie , and Authoritie , and to the publicke quietnesse of the two Realmes , and should bee used as such , in body and goods . Commanding all Justices and Magistrates , as well the Lords of the Session as others , Sheriffes , and whatsoever inferiour Judges , to administer justice , for the furtherance hereof , as they would answer upon their allegeance and highest perils : with the like certification to them also , if they failed herein . They staid at Fawlkirke that night , being the second day of November , and kept strong watch , being within five miles of the enemy . It was observed with great disdain , that the Lord Maxwel , who had the charge of the hired souldiers that were put on the watch , and so the choyce of the watch-word , gave it , Saint Andrew ; as smelling of his superstitious disposition , and which was a blemish , and contradiction ( in a manner ) to their declaration , wherein they professed to stand for the true Religion . But it was rather privately grudged at , than publickly reproved . On the morrow there came a message from the Castle of Stirlin , as from the King to the Earle Bothwell , whereby he was desired to forsake that Company , and either come to the King , or returne to his own house , which he pleased . This was a trick to divide them , and which did so work upon him , that if the Earle of Angus had not partly by reason perswaded him , and partly by his authoritie ( being a man greatly respected ) detained him , and fixed his wavering minde , he had forsaken them altogether , not without great danger to have weakned the hands and hearts of the rest , by such an untimely example . On such moments ( many times ) do even the greatest businesse depend . But God had determined to blesse that Work at that time in their hands . That rub being removed , they march forward , and about the going down of the Sunne , they shewed themselves at S. Ninians Kirk , which is scarce a full mile from Stirlin , and were seen from the Castle wall , of friends and foes . They lodged there-about as they could , till near the dawning of the day ; and then upon a secret signe given to the Companies that had dispersed themselves into the neighbour Villages for better lodging and victuall , without sound of Drumme or Trumpet , they came to their Camp and Colours . The way of assaulting the Town was laid down thus : First , one of the Commanders , with a few Companies , was directed to go and make shew , as if hee meant to enter the Town through some Orchards that lay on the West side thereof ; and at the same instant another ( with some other few Companies ) was sent to go through the Park as if they had intended to assault it on that hand , near to the Castle hill ; while in the mean time the Noblemen themselves , with the grosse and body of the Army , marched on the South side , and passing the ditch a little above the Mill , going through some Gardens , entered at a certain narrow Lane , not ●…arre from the West gate , where the way was so strait , that single men with weapons could hardly passe it . The hired souldiers which carried shot were set formost , to remove any that should offer to make head against them . They that were within the Town were equall in number to those that were to assault it without ; Noblemen , ( the Earle Marshall , and the Lord Seton ) and Barons , who were come , out of obedience to the Kings Proclamation : These had the keeping of the West gate . But the onely enemies were James , and the Colonell ( Stuarts ) together with Montrose and Crawford , in respect of some particular quarrels . For Montrose had been Chancellour of the Assise , by which the Earle of Morton was condemned , and was esteemed to have been a bad instrument therein : And Crawford had killed the Lord Glames , the Masters brother , whereupon deadly feude , and divers murders had ensued on both sides . The rest , though they did not openly assist the invaders , yet did they wish them no hurt , nor make any resistance against them . There were in the Castle , the Master of Gray , and Sir Lewis Ballandine , who were suspected by James Stuart , and not without cause . He knew also that Master John Metellane bare him no great good will. These hee intended to have rid himself of , and to have slaughtered , but they were too strong to do it without great hazard ; and besides , it had been but little wisedome to have gone about that , wherein if hee had failed , it would have been his overthrow , and though hee had prevailed , it would not have freed him from his enemies without . All he did was , that the Colonell with some shot , was set in the Street near the West-Gate of the town , which was the place likeliest to be assaulted , James Stuart himself stayed about the Bridge , having the Keyes of that Gate in his pocket , making that back-doore sure for his last refuge to escape by it . The Earle of Montrose was placed at the foot of the Castle hill , to make good the entrie through the Park . The event was , that having entred the Town through a narrow Lane , they were welcomed and entertained by the Colonell with some shot in the street , but seeing that they were resolute , and more in number than he was able to deal with , he retired to the Castle . In this entrie there was but one onely ( of the Lords side ) killed , and it is uncertaine whether it were done by the Enemie , or by one of his fellowes , who were so unskilfull in handling their Muskets , that their Captain said , That who had known them as well as hee did , would not willingly have marched before them . The Earle Marshall and the Lord Seton , seeing the Colonell so quickly quit the Field , stood still at the Gate , invading no man , and no man invading them . The Earles of Montrose and Crawford , hearing the tumult of the Towne taken , on the other hand , forsook their station , and were received into the Castle . James Stuart fled by the posterne on the Bridge , and having locked the Gate behinde him , he threw the Keyes into the River . The Colonell in his retreat was followed so near by Master James Halden ( brother Germane to John Halden of Gleneagles ) that he overtook him , and was laying hand on him , but in the mean time was shot by Josua Henderson ( a servant of the Colonels ) and so died presently . He was a young Gentleman , much lamented of all that knew him , being lately come out of France , where ( as also in Italy ) he had lived divers years , with great approbation of all his Countrey-men , being greatly beloved for his sweet courteous disposition . If it were lawfull here to bewaile a particular losse , I have just cause to loose the reins of my private affection , and pay that tribute of sorrow and teares which I owe to the memorie of so faithfull , upright , and trusty a friend . For the present it shall suffise to say thus much ( and let it remaine as a poore witnesse of some small gratefull remembrance , as long as this piece can remaine ) that before him I found not any , and since have known but very few so hearty and sincere friends , as he was to me from our childe-hood for many yeares . Having thus without any further losse or hurt made themselves Masters of the Town , all rejoyced at their successe , and with chearfull minds and countenances welcomed them , and congratulated their returne . One thing was like to have bred some stirre and tumult , but that the parties interressed knowing the Lords own noble disposition , and how these things could not be helped , bore patiently the losse they received , for the joy they had of the publick good . This it was ; when the Nobles and Gentlemen alighted to enter the Town on foot , they gave their horses to their footmen to be held without till they had made all cleare within . While they were busied in assaulting and rambarring , Colonell Stuart ; the Annandale men ( and others also by their example ▪ ) who came with the Lord Maxwell , seized on their horses , and went cleare away with them , having spared no man friend or foe , of their own , or the adverse partie . It was no time to follow them , and though it had , yet could they not doe it , their horses being gone . That day they lodged in the Towne , and kept watch and ward about the Castle , that none might go forth , or come in without their knowledge . Robert Hamilton of Inchmachan , who had falsly accused Master Douglas of Maines , and Master Cunninghame of Drummiewhasle caused himself to be let downe over the Castle wall ( at the back-side thereof ) in a basket , thinking so to escape ; but he was perceived , followed , and slaine ( in the Park ) by Johnston of Westerhall , receiving that just reward of his betraying innocent bloud . The Lord Hamilton himself when he heard of it , said he had gotten but what hee had deserved . The Castle not being provided of Victuals , and no man ( almost ) caring to defend it , it could not hold out : wherefore messengers being sent to and fro betwixt the King and them , all things were agreed on ; and so the fourth of November the Gates were set open , and the Companies entering , the Noblemen presented themselves before the King in all humble and submisse manner , and did by their carriage and behaviour really confute the calumnies of their enemies , who had accused them of traiterous intentions and practices . When they came , they used not many words ; onely , They were his true and loyall Subjects , ready to serve him with their bloud ; and that they were come to declare themselves , and to cleare them from those calumnies which wicked and seditious men that sought their own particulars , had filled his Majesties eares and minde with , and so made him to be suspicious of them without cause . The King answered lovingly ; That it was true , and that he now saw that hee had been too long abused . That it was certainly the mighty hand of GOD working with their good affection that had brought them so through without shedding of bloud . And so embracing them heartily , he welcomed them with a chearfull countenance ; desiring that they would forgive and spare the Earles of Montrose and Crawford , who were afraid to lose their lives and estates , being conscious of their own deservings . This request divers of the Earle of Angus his friends would have had him to have denied ; but he , by a rare moderation , and to shew how far he regarded the desires of his Prince , being willing also that the whole work should be free , not onely of innocent blood , but even from particular ( though just ) revenge , neither could nor would refuse it . This was the Catastrophe of this Tragick-comedie , acceptable and joyfull to all ( except these few particular men ) and harmefull to none , which did justifie their ( unjustly condemned ) former meeting at the same Towne of Stirlin , which if it had had the same successe , had produced the same effect , as it had the same aime and end . It justified also those of the Ministery who had fled to England , and those at home who approved and favoured them , that in so doing , they did not favour Traitors , or traiterous enterprises . This the Earle of Angus ( above all ) did observe , and did often remember this consequent of the successe , with no lesse contentment than the successe it self , esteeming it a greater mercie and favour from GOD to have thus cleared their innocencie and loyaltie , than that he was restored to his own home and inheritance . And therefore he did often call to minde , and mention that speech of the Kings , That it was the very hand of GOD which had prospered their enterprise , and given them that successe without bloud . For though it may seem no hard matter , in respect of the generall favour of the Countrey , yet if we consider what a desperate enemie , loath to quit such places as they have enjoyed , is wont to doe , it will seem strange that they should without once striking a stroke thus be gone without more ado . But as it hath been found in broyles ( and I have particularly observed ) that GOD hath preserved their hands from bloud , whose hearts did abhorre from the shedding of it , even upon such occasions as men thought they could hardly avoid , either to be frustrate of their intentions , or to obtain them with much bloud ; where by the contrary , many whose feet have been swifter , & their hearts lesse carefull of it , have on very small occasions fallen into it . So in this publick businesse , it pleased GOD to look on the hearts of the actours , and according to the innocencie thereof , to dispose of the means of their restoring , that their hands were kept pure from the bloud of any . He observed also of the Town of Edinburgh , how it had pleased GOD to cut short their aid and assistance , which they might have given the enemy by laying of it waste and desolate through the death of 20000. persons of the plague ( which had raged there ) whereby the rest were so terrified , that they were glad to forsake the City . For the Courtiers did most repose and rely upon them , who were readiest upon the sudden , and who ( upon the least advertisement ) were wont to come at their beck , without any disputing , or questioning the lawfulnesse of the quarrell or justice of the cause , but took every thing as from the King , whatsoever was commanded in his name , as they had given proof before , when they conveened at Stirlin ; having been the first that were sent against them , when they were forced to flee into England . This plague began immediatly after their flight , and the departure of their Ministers , and increased daily with such terrour and fearfulnesse in the hearts of men , that every man did interpret it to be the immediate hand of GOD , striking them for their obsequiousenesse to the Court , and contempt of their Ministers ; and now they being returned it diminished daily , so evidently , that after their entry into Stirlin , it ceased , not by degrees or piece-meale , but in an instant ( as it were ) so that never any after that hour was known to have been infected , nor any of such as were infected before , to have died . The Lane also , in Stirlin , by which they entred , was wholly infected , yet no man was known to have been tainted with it , or to have received any hurt . Nay , the men of Annandale did rob and ransack the pest-lodges which were in the field about Stirlin , and carried away the clothes of the infected , but were never known to have been touched therewith themselves , or any others that got , or wore the clothes . They also that were in the Lodges , returned to their houses , and conversed with their Neighbours in the Town , who received them without fear , suspicion , or reproof , and no harm did ensue upon it . As for Edinburgh , before the first of February ( within three moneths ) it was so well peopled and filled again with inhabitants , as none could perceive by the number that any had died out of it . As if GOD from Heaven should have said , Lo , the cause of my wrath , lo , the cause of my mèrcie , with the going and coming of his servants : a rare and remarkable work never to be forgotten , as he did never forget it . And for my part , I think it merits to bee recorded here , and that it is worthy that the remembrance thereof should remain to all posterity , so far as my weaknesse can preserve it , that men may see and learn to fear and seek that GOD who worketh so great things , and none can hinder him . A notable wonder , and next unto that overthrow of the Spanish Armado in 88. both in my time , both immediatly by the hand of GOD : But this , so much the more evidently , as that there , some ordinary industrie and help of man did intervene ; here , nothing can be alledged to have brought it to passe , but the very singer of GOD. Let mankinde advert and admire it . And whosoever shall go about to bereave GOD of his glory by laying it over upon chance or fortune , may his chance be such as his blindnesse or perversenesse deserveth . Things being brought thus about , who would have been so modest , as not to have been so farre ambitious , as in distributing the offices of the Kingdome , to have taken to himself , or bestowed on his friends some place of honour or profit ? But Angus did neither take to himself , nor procure any for his particular friends & followers . Let ambition be silent , and let her plumes fall , when she seeth her self truly contemned by him . He contented himself with that onely which was his own ; yea , he even dispensed and forbore that which was his own ; modestly tolerating , that the Lands , House and Lordship of Dalkeeth , should still be retained by the young Duke of Lennox , upon the Kings promise to be restored thereto , so soon as any occasion should fall out of providing some other Lands to the Duke ; which was not done , till the Lord Methven dying without heires male , the Lands falling to the King , he gave them to Lennox , and restored Dalkeeth to Angus . Out of the like modesty & will , to gratifie his Prince in whatsoever he could to the very uttermost of his power , at the Parliament ( held in Edinburgh 1587. ) about two years after , he dispensed with his priviledge of bearing the Crown at the Kings request , and suffered the Duke to carry it , with protestation ( and promise ) that it should not be prejudiciall to him nor his house in time coming , and so ( with all meeknesse ) submitted himself to take the second place , and carry the Scepter . In this last point , it was thought wisedome to yeeld , so to disappoint those , who were thought to have put the King upon it , of purpose to have made a breach betwixt the King and him by his refusall . The former was not effected without the bribing of those Courtiers who did then possesse the Kings eare . Secretary Metellane got his Lands of Die-Water to work it ; which when he would have holden of the King by renunciation , Angus refused to renounce , and would onely give them , holding of himself , not without some indignation on both sides . It was hardlier constructed , that he suffered a decreet given in favours of Farnihaste to his prejudice , to be reserved , and stand good in his restitution . And thus did he behave himself in his private affairs . As for the publick affairs of the Kingdom , hee suffered them to bee managed by the Master of Glames , to whom the rest of their society were most inclined , for the opinion they had of his wisedome , greater experience and age ; as also for that now he was a prime officer of State ( Treasurer ) and allied with the Lord Hamilton ; rather than hee would enter into any contest , which might breed any division amongst themselves , being set altogether on peace and calmnesse , howbeit he did not approve of all their proceedings , and differed much in judgement from them , concerning the administration and handling of matters . So in the policie of the Church , though out of a sincere minde and true zeal , hee favoured and affected the right form as much as any , and was much grieved , that such order was not taken in it , as should have been , & was expected ; yet he did tolerate that course which the rest thought good to suffer to go on . For this they gave out , That the King inclined to the government of Bishops , and therefore it was not convenient to crosse his inclination abruptly and directly , left he should seem to be constrained or thralled in his actions ( a point which they avoided carefully ) and not used with that respect and liberty , which is due to a Prince : yet they said they should labour to work him to it with time , taking their opportunity as it should be offered unto them . And so indeed it was brought to passe ; for Bishops were first restrained of their using their pretended jurisdiction , and by fact ( de facto ) even then brought under obedience to Synodes and Presbyteries , and in the year 1592. the former discip̄line was re-established by Act of Parliament , and all authority directly taken from Bishops . But neither in the former Parliament ( holden at Linlithgow in December 1585. ) neither in the next ( holden at Edinburgh the 29. of July 1587. ) was there any mention made thereof . This gave occasion of much discontentment to the best affected , and bitter contention betwixt the Court and the Ministery ; they reprooving this toleration of that unlawfull office , and the King committing them for their freedome of reproof . So no man of any judgement and good disposition was satisfied with their proceedings . Notwithstanding , there was none of any degree , but had a good opinion , and thought well of the Earle of Angus , and excused his part of it , laying the blame thereof upon the rest , who ( they thought ) were more carefull of their own particular , than mindefull or solicitous for the state of GODS Church . And when I call to minde the disposition of men in those times , I cannot expresse it otherwayes than thus ; That they accused all , but excused him ; and yet they so excused him , that they did also accuse him ; not for his want of good-will , but for want of action . They were perswaded of the sincerity of his heart but they thought him defective in action according to their opinion , and would have had him to have taken more upon him than he did . Concerning which purpose I have thought it best not so much to deliver my own judgement , or use my own words in excusing or accusing what might be thought worthy to be excused or accused in him ( for what is mine may be more obnoxious to mens censure ) as to set down every point according to the judgement , and in the words of others , who were present eye-witnesses and special actours in those times : what they thought worthy to be reprehended , and what they required to have amended , which wil comprehend whatever negligence or omission any man can lay to his charge : for as touching any fault of Commission , and doing what he ought not to have done , there was no man complained of him . To which effect , diverse letters might bee produced , which were written to himselfe by diverse persons of all sorts , Civill and Ecclesiasticall , Scottish and English , of the Ministery , which had beene banished with him , and of the brethren of the Church of England : but I have made choice of one for all , which containeth the summe of all , both Church and State businesse , both private and publicke , and that in the Authours owne words most faithfully , neither adding nor impairing any thing . To which wee shall subjoyne his owne answer , in his owne words ( so farre as our memory can serve ) at least his owne estimation , and judgement of every point ; his ends , grounds and reasons of his actions , which hee delivered in his most inward , and private conference , where it pleased him to open himselfe , as hee was accustomed , freely , and even to the laying naked of his very heart and soule . The letter was ( after the wonted formalities ) thus , HAving occasion of this bearer , I thought good to remember some things , especially that you would ( as you know I intended to have done ) purchase in name of the Countrey , some to bee sent to keepe Justice Courts , in our Countrey and Teviotdale , otherwayes all will breake . Also let the sitting of the Session bee hasted , that such things as flow from their restitution may bee decided , otherwayes some men may bee greatly prejudiced and disappointed . As for Master John , it is hard for my Lord to helpe you both ( I am still of that opinion ) wherefore if no place fall about the King , let it not displease his Lordship that one of you seeke some other course . After my departing from Linlithgow , I continued in great anger , whereof I am not yet fully freed , because of that sentence ( or decreet ) reserved to Farnihaste against the Earle of Angus : and though the doers bee partiall , yet I blame most his owne simplicitie ( I must needes so call it ) seeing his authoritie ought to put order to others , where now hee is onely a beholder of that which it pleaseth others to doe . But hee must either take matters otherwayes upon himselfe , or undoe himselfe , and all the rest with him . For if the Master of Glames , forgetting the event of Ruthven businesse , will needs trace the steps of the Earle of Gowrie , it is not for the rest of the fellowship to be slothfull to their owne hinderance . They are indeed at Court , but are esteemed no better ( abroad ) then beasts in the Countrey , never like to acquire the favour of any ; but continually declining out of the hearts of many of their well affected friends , who all speake , as though they saw already an evident ruine of them : and that ( doubtlesly ) deserved , for lying in their good cause , and not vindicating Israel from Aram. Remember whence they are fallen , and return , or we shall bee forced to lament for that which wee shall never bee able to amend . If they sticke to their cause , all is sure ; otherwise nothing sure : for either their suretie is by the Kings favour ( whereof I speake nothing ) or the favour of the people : this they must have by pressing their cause ; of Noblemen , for relieving them from bondage , and revenging their bloud ; of Gentlemen and Commons , for purging Religion , restoring of Justice , and providing that Tyrannie thrust not it selfe in againe . If this bee urged , it will confirme such as are already in the cause , and will make more to joyne in it : So shall the cause prosper ; and if occasion crave so , there is a partie ever ready to take Armes for it . But if , omitting this , a flattering , or a fearefull course bee taken , who shall speake plaine , and assist such fearefull dissemblers ? who shall credit them , when afterwards ( as heretofore ) they shall take on the name of the good cause ? I wish the Kings Majestie may bee used with all Princely reverence , but not flatteringly fostered in tyranny to his owne undoing , though I seeme to see even now that these flatterers shall be worthily wracked . I aske them whether they had a just cause in hand or not ? ( and yet of all these evils , under the burden whereof the Countrey groned , they have opened nothing at all to his Majestie ) why is it not then justified in deed by condemning the other worthy to bee condemned ? Is their cause already ended ? And if not , why is it then left off ? hath it not enemies ? why should it not then bee fortified against them ? The Declaration of their cause , why was it published ? To acquire favour at the hands of the people ? And why then is there nothing done to retaine this favour ? yea rather , why are such things done , as procure their disfavour , and hatred ? I see nothing , but as men have dissemblingly pretended a good cause with uncleansed hearts , God ( to discover their hypocrisie ) hath given them their hearts desire , but for their further ruine for their Hypocrisie . I cannot forbeare to write this , though I bee out of hope of any good , yet I suppose that such as have meant uprightly , shall ( in Gods favour ) bee provided for ( though with trouble ) when God shall require of those dissemblers the bloud of such as have perished , and shall perish through their default , giving them a proofe of their owne wits , and their unfaithfull hearts : They would not serve God , hee made men their masters . Are means failed him ? No : the last shall bee worse then the first . It seemeth to mee that God hath even prepared a mischief for them ; and therefore given them over to their owne devices , wherewith they are so drunke , and blinded , as men in a melancholicke apprehension , who are past all cure of Physicke . But this , above all , troubles mee most , that till such time as good men bee all undone , and the Land utterly ruined , and overborne with Tyrannie , it shall not bee resisted hereafter . For a new Generation must arise ( that hath forgotten these things ) before that any who shall pretend a common cause get credit : good men are so often deceived under that colour and pretext , and drawne on to their wracke . And certainely , rather then I were hee , that ( through mis-governance and evill order ) should undoe so many as are like to bee undone at this time , I had farre rather give my owne life for it . But I speake to deafe men , and therefore I cease , committing to God the providing for those , whose hearts hee sees to bee upright , having from time to time kept nothing backe of that which I knew would make for the surety of these men , and the cause , without troubling them with any particulars . If Angus could steere in his owne roome , hee might redresse the Masters errours : Speake to Dunniepace and Largoe : See what is done about the Barons , and give me notice of such direction as goeth to their Shires . I say , for conclusion , their earnest suite in particulars , and negligence in the common cause , convicts them before all men , and the King may justly say , They had no good meaning . But if it were mine to doe , wee should goe all together to the King , and say , this or the like speech . Sir , in that yee have ( as may be ) redressed our particulars , wee thanke you heartily , though it was ever the least part of our desire ; for Gods Church hath beene heavily oppressed ( then tell him the particulars apart ) Your Realme and Subjects have beene tyrannized over : ( then tell him also some proofes ) Let therefore the Gospell bee restored to the owne libertie , and some men chosen to set downe some sure policy which may last and continue . Let some also bee deputed to heare the plaints and grievances of such as have beene wronged , under the colour of your Majesties name , and let their wrongs bee redressed as much as is possible ; and such order taken , that the Subjects may bee out of feare heareafter of suffering , so they keepe the Lawes . Let the Lawes also bee revised by wise men , and such of them taken away as bee hurtfull to the Subjects ( for you shall finde the like Ordinance touching Acts of Parliament of olde . ) This being done , wee doubt not , but God shall blesse you , and your Countrey ; seeing , the neglecting hereof , hath beene the cause of the evills past . Sir , doe it your selfe , for the gaine is yours , though wee put you in minde of it . Now except this bee done , there can bee no continuing quietnesse . Postscript . THeir foolish proceedings make all men to stand aloofe . I heare the Lord Boyd is secretly in this Countrey of Scotland , but seeth not that in them which hee could wish . Let the Master behave himselfe as hee pleaseth , can the King but thinke that hee would rather wish his owne ●…ster sonne King ? I finde great fault that the Abbots ( Driebrough and Cambuskenneth ) Lie abake , who are practitioners and partakers , as Marre at Ruthven : let them joyne together and bee knowne . This letter being received , and a fit opportunitie espied ; it was brought to my Lord , and without further ceremony ; I have received here a letter ( saith hee ) from whom , and from whence your Lordship may see . It is written to mee indeed , but not for my sake , ( for hee knowes my minde ) but that I might so informe your Lordship concerning your estate , and the state of the publicke cause which you have embraced ; and you might know what the thoughts of honest men are concerning it , what they thinke , what they expect , what they wish and require . I thinke it best that it speake for it selfe in its owne language , let it be your Lordships pleasure to reade it . He tooke it and read it , and after a little pause ; This ( saith he ) that is here in the beginning of this letter may be obtained , this Commission for Justice Courts , and this for our securitie we shall and must needs bee carefull of . There is next that which concerneth your selfe ; wherein I am sorry that occasion hath not served me to expresse in effect the good will I bore you , as I thinke I ought to doe . And while he was about to goe on in that purpose , the other interrupting him , made answer : Let it be your Lordships pleasure to breake off that discourse : I never doubted ( nor never will doe ) of your Lordships minde , which is enough to satisfie me ; you know my ambition . I am content to doe any thing , I am content to doe nothing : hope did not bring me to this cause ; frustrating , nor feare cannot divert me . If I can serve to any good use , I am glad of it : if I cannot , yet am I contented : it is enough to me that I have been willing , and gone as farre as God hath called me : hee knoweth how farre hee will imploy any , and your Lordship is my best witnesse , that I never did thrust my sel●…e into your Lordships publicke or private businesse . So farre as you were pleased of your owne accord to communicate with me , so farre I knew and meddled . I know what men thinke , but this shall ever be my wisedome , or my folly ( let who list account it so ) yet if I were even aspiringly disposed , how can your Lordship doe for your friends , at his Majesties hands , who doth your owne affaires with him by the mediation of strangers ? But ( seeing we are fallen upon this purpose ) let it not displease your Lordship that Master John retire himselfe ( as you see it is desired here ) I will ( by Gods grace ) runne such hazard and fortune as may befall me , by being your Lordships onely ; to which my minde , my liking , and the honour I have to be your Lordships Kinseman , and will to honour and doe what good office I can to your Lordship , do carry me ; and if so I can serve your Lordship to any good use in any thing you have to doe , it is all I crave : for the present let me bee bold to aske your Lordships minde and disposition concerning this letter , what you thinke rightly admonished , and what you intend about the prosecution or amending of every point in it ? Before we come to this ( said my Lord ) let mee demand a question of you first , and heare your judgement in a point which hath greatly perplexed me : you remember the sermon preached at Linlithgow , by Master Craig , what thinke you of it ? I remember you told me you did not fully like it : but I would heare you againe more particularly to refresh my memory , because it is greatly incident to this purpose , and seems to cut short all our actions . For if the case of all Subjects towards their Princes be such , what can we doe but depend on their pleasure ? The other ( smiling a little ) indeed my Lord ( as it is in our Proverbe ) It is time to aske the question ! for if you must depend on their pleasure , why did you not expect it ? and stay in England till you were recalled ? why came you unsent for ? and that in such a manner ? what is become of your Proclamations ? and of all the faire reasons of it ? you must goe backe again , and recant all , and cry peccavie for these things . Oh , ( saith my Lord ) that is another question , for what we did in that , was done of necessitie for our lives and estates , and to remove that violent tyrannous man , who else would have undone King , Countrey , and all : But now that he is removed , and that necessitie taken away , it is another case ; how to deale with our Prince , to whom we owe such obedience , he being amongst Kings , Who are in the place of God , who are called Gods , and to whom is due the obedience to God. But leaving the particular , let me heare you of the generall , What you thinke of that Sermon , and of his grounds ? I know there are others also , that were not satisfied with it , but I would heare you . Having paused a little , he answered : Loath am I my Lord , to enter upon that taske of censuring any man , chiefly a Preacher : I like better to dispute a point and discusse a truth , without touching upon any mans person , so farre as it can be avoyded . But seeing your Lordship drawes me to it : I confesse , wee all disclaime implicite faith , and thinke wee are reasonable c●…eatures , apt to weigh and consider mens reasons , and yeeld assent to their opinions so farre as they enforce , neither ought wee otherwayes to consent , nor can any reasonable man enforce himselfe to assent , which makes me , in matter of consenting ( chie●…ly in Religion ) to dislike of constraint : For I judge of others as I finde my selfe ; the world cannot force mee , nay , I cannot force my selfe to thinke otherwayes , then my judgement alloweth of . But to your question , I am more favourable to Princes , then many beleeve , and to Monarches : I account it a great and heavie charge , and burden , which hath need of great reliefe , and many comforts to recompense the pains thereof , and can permit much to a good Prince , yea , as much as he himselfe pleaseth ; which will never bee more then is good and just , though it were all the estates of his Subjects , and the whole Countrey to be guided by himselfe alone , with as absolute power as any ever spake of , and yet not thinke that hee had an haires bredth of more power to doe hurt . But to the question we are on ; your Lordship remembers the ground that Master Craig did lay ? yes ( saith he ) very well : It was that passage of the 82. Psalme ( God sits in the assembly of the Gods ) And what he built thereon ? He built ( said he ) obedience to Kings commandments and impunitie without controulement ; your Lordship remembers right , and reports the best of his speech in the fairest termes [ Obedience to Kings , Impunitie to Kings ] whereas hee said roundly , [ Obedience to Tyrants , Impunitie to Tyrants ] which two who confounds , doth great wrong to good Kings . But whether wee call them Tyrants , or Kings , which that Psalme speakes of , Who so inferres these conclusions from thence , doth it without warrant from the text , the drift of which is clean contrary ; not to extoll or lift them up , but to abate their pride , and to humble them ; not to secure them , but to terrifie them ; not to exempt them from death ( the lot of other men ) but to let them know that they are subject to it as well as others , and to threaten them therewith . Wherefore let men build up Power and impunitie to Tyrants upon what other place of Scripture they please , I dare affirme that this place is most unfit for it . For here there is never a word of [ Obedience ] never a word of [ Impunitie ] but by the contrary of [ punishment . ] Oh , ! but it saith [ I have said ye are Gods : ] True , but it saith also [ Neverthelesse , you shall die ] which two being put together , the one shewes them their duety , [ Do justice as God doth ] the other threatneth punishment [ Te shall die if ye do it not . ] But they will say , that this threatning is from God , and therefore God ( indeed ) may and will punish , but man may not . I answer , the Text makes no mention whether God will punish them immediately , or by the hand of man : but however that be , the scope of the Psalmist is to humble them , and hee who from thence doth gather any Prerogative or impunitie to them , gathers that which is contrary to the Text. Now to come to the particulars of the Sermon : To what use was it at that time to preach [ Obedience ] to Tyrants ? was it not sufficient to have preached [ Obedience ] to good Kings ? And to have showne his Majesty to be a good King ( if he thought that any man doubted of that point ) which was more honourable for his Majestie , more beseeming a Preacher , more easie to perswade , then to roote out the inveterate opinion of the lawfulnes to resist Tyrants ? Concerning his Arguments : 1. Was the first solid ? [ God sitteth in the assembly of Gods ] therfore Tyrants sit in the seat of God : though it were true , yet it followeth not : and it is even like to this , The King sits in the Assembly of the Lords , therefore the Lords sit in the Kings seat . As on the contrary , The King ( being present ) doth sit in his owne seat , and the Lords do rather sit in his seat when he is absent , then when he sits in the Assembly amongst them . Also ( as I have said ) the presence of God is there mentioned : not to authorize , but to controll them . Neither doth the Text inferre , [ Therefore obey them ] there is no word of that there , but [ Therefore they shall die ] Because God sits and sees them , eyes them , and perceives the wrong they doe , and how they abuse their power , which is a contrary illation to his , and farre more consonant to the Text. 2. His second Argument was [ The people of God are commanded to obey Nabuchodonozor , who was a Tyrant , therefore all Tyrants should be obeyed . ] How hard an inference ! Of a particular extraordinary , to gather a generall ordinary rule ! If wee allow of this kinde of arguing , it will bee replied : God commanded Jehu ( a private man ) to slay Achab ( a Tyrant ) therefore private men ought , or may slay Tyrants . 3. His third [ David did not slay Saul , therefore no man should lay hands on a Tyrant ] how loose is it ? from example or authoritie , negative . 4. But the fourth [ God placed the Tyrant in that place , therefore no man may put him out of it , though his Tyranny bee never so great ] what doe you thinke of it ? A mans goods are taken from him by a briggand , who doubts but God hath given them into the briggands hands ? But doth it therefore follow , that no man ( not the Magistrate ) may take them from him againe , because God hath put them into his hands ? yea , who knowes but God hath cast them into his hands for that end , that they may bee taken out of his hands , and hee punished for it ? Besides , this inconvenient will also follow hereon : if an usurper shall once get himselfe place in a Kingdome , no man ( by this reasoning ) may ever dispossesse him again , to repossesse the lawfull King ; because ( without all doubt ) God hath placed him there . This were a maxime very prejudiciall to lawfull and rightfull Kings . 5 The fifth was a Simile ] which all men know are ever lame , and doe halt some way ; yea those which he used , are brought by others to prove the contrary . 1. For even Children are sometimes made free from their Parents by the civill law Romane . 2. And Servants from their Masters , by Gods Law given to the Jewes ; as , If his eye bee beaten out , let him goe for his eye . 3. Wives are divorced , and freed from their husbands , if the essentiall knot and tie of matrimonie bee violated , and broken : why then may not the tie we have to Tyrants be taken away ? If the Essentiall cause of obedience ( the image of God ) justice ) be violated , and cast off by the Tyrant , why may not the obligation of obedience cease ? And this for his Arguments , which you ●…ee how frivolous and weak they are . As for his conclusion [ Men may not put hand in Tyrants ] it can never be deduced from his text : There is only one word , which seemes to make for him [ I said ye are gods ] but the next words say plainly [ Neverthelesse ye shall die , ] whereby it is clear , that this appellation of ( gods ) is not given them to free them from punishment , but to put them in minde of their duty ; which when they neglect , they lose the name , and are lyable to the punishment . So that ( according to his owne forme of reasoning ) if it follow from hence , that because God hath placed them in that place to doe justice , therefore men should not take them out of it , though they prove Tyrants ; it will follow farre better ; God appoints them to die , because they doe not justice , therefore they must die , therefore men may make them die , when they become Tyrants in stead of being gods . Which kind of reasoning if he think not to be good , then must he quit his own reason , and leave this passage , as neither making for him , nor against him ; neither exempting them from punishment ( in calling them gods , which showes but what they ought to be of dutie ) nor yet giving expresse command for men to slay them , in this other word ( ye shall die ) which showes onely what God will doe in his justice . He alledged ( as others also doe in this cause ) that the thing which moved him to broach this conclusion , was , because that if a liberty to kill , or disobey Tyrants be granted unto men , then good Kings shall not be obeyed , nor sure of their owne lives , because seditious or ambitious men ( of which there are enow ) will call a good King a Tyrant . But your Lordship may consider the futilitie of that pretext ; for by the same reason all lawes are taken away , and all punishment of vice and wickednesse . For where the law ordaines theeves to be punished , an unjust Judge may call an honest man a theefe ; and if we allow blasphemie to be punished , a Jezabel will finde meanes to cause Naboth be accounted a blasphemer ; and if we suffer sedition to be punished , Tyrants will call a good Patriot , a seditious fellow ; free admonitions , treason ; and any word of liberty , rebellion . Shall therefore sedition be unpunished ? shall theft ? shall blasphemie ? And certainly there is more danger , and it comes oftner to passe , that a Tyrant should call an honest man seditious , then it is found that subjects call a good King a Tyrant . The people suffer much ( what by custome , what through a naturall inclination and love toward their Princes ) and beare with many great faults , and seldome come to rise up against him , but when the injury is intolerable . And you shall finde ( when you please to trie it ) that they have comported more and oftner with wicked Princes , then ever they have made insurrection against good ones ; nay , then they have made against the wicked , unlesse their wickednesse hath beene extreme enormous and pernicious . Yea , I doubt whether any can finde an example of insurrection against any that was good , nay , against any tolerably wicked : whereas of the other side , many honest men have beene opprest , and put to death by Tyrants upon small or no occasion , upon a forged accusation , lie , or calumnie . Wherefore it is a foolish and ridiculous pretext , to maintaine Obedience , and the Impunitie of Tyrants , that so good Kings may be obeyed , and secured : as if a man should plead for impunitie to harlots , that so honest matrons may be secured . All is but folly , for there is but one way to secure honest women , which is to avoyd whorish fashions ; to secure honest and true men , to take heed they be not found breaking or digging through of houses . And let a good King beware and carefully avoid all tyrannicall actions . So ( and onely so ) shall he be sure ( if word and worke justifie him ) and free from all feare of punishment from God or man. And thus much concerning your Lordships question , what my opinion is of that Sermon . But seeing we are fallen upon this subject , let me tell your Lordship how men , while they labour to put a good face upon this matter , wavering betwixt flatterie of Princes , and truth of reason received , and allowed by the common consent of all men against Tyrants , involve and intangle themselves into many difficulties and absurdities . I will bring one instance for all , and that is Bodinus ( a Frenchman ) in his booke De republica : faine would he make even Tyrants to be sacred and inviolable , and perswade that all obedience is due , and ought to be given them . And he concludes , that they are not to be touched by their subjects , but obeyed ; whereof he gives this for his chiefe reason , Because their subjects have no jurisdiction over them ▪ yet finding how hard it were to free them from all feare of punishment , he puts them into the hands of forraine Kings , and exhorts them to exterminate and root them out , commending it as a laudable action , by the imitation of Hercules , who travelled through the world ( sayes he ) to destroy these Monsters , Tyrants . Now let any man judge what good reason can be given for denying that power to the Countrey it selfe ( under the pretext , because they have no jurisdiction ) and to give it to a forrainer , who hath neither interest nor jurisdiction over another Prince . And whether is there more danger in the sedition of his Countrey people , then in the ambition of a stranger Prince ? And which of them is likeliest to picke a quarrell against him , and to call him a Tyrant , and seeke occasion to worke their owne particular ends ? Besides , what shall be the part of the people in this case ? Shall they fight against this forrainer , who comes to cut off their Tyrant ? Who then shall come to relieve those from tyrannie , that will take armes for defence of the Tyrant ? Shall they joyne with him ? Certainly in all reason they ought to joyne with him , seeing it is for their sakes that he under-takes the warre . But that is Rebellion ( if wee beleeve Bodinus . ) Shall they be neutrall , and spectators ? Even that is disobedience . And yet the same Bodinus sayes , That Tyrants are monsters ; now there is no societie ( farre lesse bond of obedience and subjection ) with monsters . Yea , hee sayes , That there is no societie with Pirats ▪ because they break the Lawes of humane societie ; and Tyrants break them much more . This same man in his D●…monomania sayes , A King may become a Wolfe ; and that a great King in Christendome was one when hee pleased . I ask him then , Whether such a King should bee obeyed , when hee is a Wolfe ? And if hee should ever continue to bee such , without returning to bee a man , whether or not must hee bee ever obeyed in all things ? Shall his sacred Majestie bee reverenced ? And ( lest hee should starve ) shall hee bee fed with childrens flesh ( perhaps ) because hee will eat no other , or ( at least ) because hee likes that best ? Certainly , his reason will inferre no lesse than that hee should . And if hee bee ashamed to affirme this , and will confesse that it is lawfull to put such an one from his Kingdome , who hath put off humane nature , and can now no more guide a Kingdome : what shall wee think of one , who ( though retaining the shape of a man ) hath a wolvish nature and disposition , being cruell , wicked , licentious , and over-throwes all right and equitie ? And is not a Tyrant ( for the like reason ) as worthie to bee deprived of that Kingdome , which hee cannot , or will not guide rightly , but destro●…s and makes havock of all ? Certainly , the reason is all one : for it is n●…t the shape ( so much ) of a Wolfe that men abhorre , as the wolvish and ravenous nature and disposition . For suppose a good Kingwere ( contrary to his will ) transformed by Magicall incantation onely , into the sh●…pe of a Wolfe , who did retaine his reason , his speech , his wisedome , justice , equitie , meeknesse , and all good Government , omitting nothing that belonged to a good Prince , men would not so much abhorre , as pity him , and expect till some way were found how hee might recover his former shape , and would ( doubtlesse ) preferre his humane nature , though in the shape of a Wolfe , to a wolvish nature , though under the shape of a man ; it being farre more tolerable , and f●…rre more advantageous for the Common-wealth , whereof the good and safetie is ever to bee respected and preferred in all things . And thus much for Bodinus . But will your Lordship bee pleased to hear what that great Doctour of the Lawes ( a professed Patron of Princes , in his book which hee wrote of purpose for their defence ) I mean Blackwood sayes concerning this question ? It is ( sayes hee ) an absurd thing to affirm , That a Princes commandement should or may be dis-obeyed . Yet if a Prince command any thing that is unjust , it must not be obeyed . But how shall we do then ? Even this , sayes hee , when the commandement is unjust , we must suppose that the commandement is not the Kings commandement : but either that it is , first , some fained and forged thing under his name ; secondly , or stoln from him at unawares ; thirdly , or that being busied some other way , he did not take heed to it : Fourthly , or that he hath been ill informed : Fifthly , or mis-taken it : Sixthly , or that hee is mis-led and mis-carried with some passion or prejudice . So in the point of controlling Princes , he cannot endure that the Sacred Majestie , Gods Vice-gerent , should be constrained or forced any way ; that is absurd and abominable : Yet if he mis-governe the Countrey , so that the state of the Common-weale bee in danger , the blame must bee laid on his evill Counsellours ; those they may lay hands on , and take order with them ; nay , hang them , if they please , and place good men about him , whose better advice he may follow . But by no meanes must they touch or meddle with himself in person . This opinion is such , that ( I beleeve ) hee against whom he writes , hath not written any thing that may seeme more hard . For if we may call his commandements ( when they are unjust ) stolne , and so dis-obey them ; wee are not bound to obey his unjust commandements . And if wee may take order with his counsellours , who will be his counsellour ? Or who will execute his unjust will ? Nay , how can subjects do either of these two without a manifest controlling and forcing of him , Since hee will oppose and interpret all as done against himselfe , and call it Treason and Rebellion against him ? So that in effect , all comes to one . Besides , this way leaves that ground ( which men so carefully pretend to avoyd ) which is , to call all his commandements stolne ( though they bee never so clearly his ) and albeit they bee never so good ; as also of calling his Counsellours evill , though they bee not so . Whereby hee makes them Judges both of his Commandements and Counsellours ; so that they may call it in question whether they bee good or not ; which doth brangle , and ( indeed ) over-turne all that absolute power which he gave them before . I will not omit here to tell your Lordship of another distinction that some use against unlawfull commandements : They grant that we should not give them Active Obedience , that is , that we should not do the thing commanded , but that we must yeeld Passive obedience , that is , Suffer what punishment the Prince shall be pleased to lay upon us for our refusing to do what he commands , whether it be a pecuniarie mulct , imprisonment , or death it self . But if this be rightly weighed in the balance of reason , if the commandement be unlawfull , the punishment inflicted for refusing to obey it , is also unlawfull , and the commanding of us to under-go that punishment , is likewise unlawfull . Therefore there is no necessitie of obedience to that command , according to Blackwoods rule ; for it is not the Kings ; it is stolne . Therefore if a Tyrant command a thing unlawfull , under the pain of paying a summe of money , a man is no more bound to pay the money , than hee is to obey the commandement ; for both are unlawfull . Farre lesse is he bound to submit himself to a corporall punishment , or to lay down his life , or to enter into prison , which takes away his libertie , as dear to him as his life , and doth oftentimes endanger both his life and goods by consequence . If ( I say ) he can get these things avoided , he is not bound in conscience to under-go them , but may lawfully with-draw himself from them , and shun them . What hee is to do when he cannot eschue these things , is not a case of duty , but of prudencie : for that same question will come to bee considered , when a man hath to do with a Robber ( to whom he owes no obligation of obedience ) if hee bee not able to resist him , how farre hee shall yeeld to him . Let us put the case then , That a Tyrant would ( for our dis-obeying of his unlawfull commands ) invade us his subjects by Armes , wee are not so bound to him , but wee may avoide the blow ; nay , the subject ( in this case ) may warde the blow , and put by his Princes Weapon , he may hold his hands ( if it be necessary ) and if hee cannot otherwayes save himself . And what will these that stand for Passive Obedience answer to those that suppose this case : That the Prince and his subjects were in a ship , and the Prince should command a leake to be made in the ship , by which the water might come in , and drown both them and himself ? They will ( perhaps ) say , that they would not do it , although he should command it . But would they give him a Passive Obedience ? Would they suffer him to kill them for their refusall ? Would they give him leave and way to do it ? Or would they set aside such ceremonie , and stay him from it calmely ? Put the Augre or Wimble out of the way , or keep it from him ? Hold his hands ; or ( if there were need ) even binde him rather ? so to save themselves and him . Which if it be right and lawfull to do for preserving a private ship , what shall be said of the Bark of the Common-wealth ( I pray you ) if a Tyrant do such things , which will cast it into danger of drowning and shipwrack ? Now the ground of all this ; First , ( That tyrants must bee obeyed ; Secondly , that they must not be controlled , nor resisted , but get ever a Passive Obedience ; Thirdly , that they must no wayes bee deprived , and farre lesse touched in their persons ) is in this ( forsooth ) That they are Gods ; which name ( as they alledge ) inferres all these , Obedience , not resistance , not depriving , &c. And indeed ( to bee God ) carries more with it ; it imports both Active and Passive Obedience to whatsoever he commands without exception , to kill his sonne with Abraham ; for each man to kill his brother , as the Levites did . But how farre these ( called ) Gods , come short of that priviledge ( notwithstanding of the name ) I have said before : and therefore this appellation will not import any of the rest by any necessary consequence , no more than it doth absolute Active Obedience . Neither are Princes there compared to GOD , because of equall soveraignity or obedience due to them , but because of the likenesse of the action , and to warne them to imitate him in justice . And to draw an argument from a Comparison of things , to prove an equality in them , in that wherein they are not matched or compared , is against the law of Similies , or Comparisons . Secondly , those who dispute in this sort , speak onely of absolute Monarchs ( as they call them ) but the name of [ Gods ] is not onely given to absolute Monarchs . It is given to the Judges of Israel before they had Kings : & the Turks use ( at this day ) when they go to law , this phrase , Let us go to God : by which they mean , not their absolute Monarch , the Emperour , but any inferiour Judge , even the lowest and meanest , as ( no question ) even a Sheriffes depute , or a Barons Bailiffe sit in the place of God , when they sit to do justice betwixt parties ; yet no man for that doth attribute absolute power to them . Behold the ground of your Lordships cause , and of this so worthy an action done by you , to your perpetuall honour , of rare memory and example in any age : lo what you have been ; not contemplating and disputing in the Schooles , but practising in the Common-wealth . For if it be not lawfull to disobey the command of Princes ( even of lawfull and borne Princes ) in any case , then is this that you have done , very unlawfull . If it be a wrong to controll their wills , then must this your fact be condemned as wrong . If it bee not lawfull to remove from them wicked Counsellours and instruments of iniquitie , then is this your act altogether unjust , enormous , unlawfull and treacherous . But the world acknowledges , all men assent , and the Prince himselfe confesses , that you have happily atchieved a worthie worke , in freeing your King from the jawes of these wolves and lions , who devoured the Realme , and polluted his name and fame ; that you have restored him to his honour , and that high expectation of him to his Countrey , and to the Church of God throughout the whole world . There rests onely this exception and doubt in mens mindes , whether or not this hath been your aime ( in very deed ) and the true scope and end of your enterprise ; or if this bee but incident and adventitious to your own particular designes . For it is sure , your particular was joyned with it ; but that is no fault : yea , I account him happy , whose lot joynes his estate with an honest cause , so that they must stand or fall together ; or whose minde and resolution casts him upon it . But it is of great weight , and makes a great difference , when the cause is our end , and ( our particular but accessorie , or contrarily ) when our particular is the maine motive , and the common cause but a by end , and embraced only to advance our particular . Your Proclamation ( or Declaration ) which ye published , speaks much of the publick cause and common-weale ; but you may perceive what men think ( how your actions and doings since do not answer thereto ) by this Letter . For they are begun to think , that howsoever you pretended the publick , yet your intention was fixed onely on your own particular ; because you have done nothing for the Church or Countrey , and hath settled your own particular . And it is observed , That of all the Parliaments that were ever held in this Countrey , this last ( held since you came home ) is it , in which alone there is no mention of the Church , either in the beginning thereof ( as in all others there is ) or elsewhere throughout . This neglect of the state of the Church and Countrey , as it is a blemish of your fact , obscuring the beauty and lustre of it ; so is it accounted an errour in policie and civill prudencie , by so doing , to divide and separate your particular from the common cause of the Church and Countrey ; which as it hath been the meane of your particular restitution , so is it the onely meane to maintain you in this estate , and to make it sure and firme . Hee having thus spoken , the Earle of Angus answered , I know that question stands yet undecided betwixt those that stand for Tyrants , and those that are against them , and is disputed by Lawyers on both sides ; as what is not disputed and called in question by them ? I see also there hath been continuall practice of both wayes ; and the practice hath been allowed or dis-allowed according to the successe ; The Nobility calling it Tyranny and mis-government , and the Prince calling the controlling of him , Sedition , Rebellion , Treason . But if Doctor Blackwood say that which you say , hee touches the point very right , and the fashion of our Countrey , whose ordinary custome hath ever been such , to take order with wicked Counsellours , carrying all respect to the Prince , and as much reverence as ever any Nation did . Yet that beginning with the Counsellours drew many at last by necessity to betake themselves directly to their Prince himself , when hee would needs espouse their quarrell , and either to protect and maintaine them , or to revenge them . So that if Blackwood say that it is lawfull to punish wicked Counsellours , he must confesse also , that it is lawfull to controll Kings . Neither is hee aware that in so saying , hee makes the Nobility ( or Estates ) Judges to discern whether the Counsellours bee wicked or not ; and whether their proceedings bee for the good of the Countrey , which he will alledge they are ; and that both themselves are good servants , and their service good and profitable to him and the Countrey ; and these actions which they do , and the counsell which they give ▪ that they do them as his servants , and by his direction , as Counsellours advising and propounding things , not prescribing or enjoyning ; and therefore what is done against them , is not done against them , but against him ; and that they are not wicked , but good and faithfull men . Now the case standing thus , to whomsoever he allowes the power to put order to them as wicked , hee allowes them also power to cognosce of them as wicked , to judge of them as wicked ; and that contrary to the judgement of their Prince who will never judge them such . And indeed , unlesse it be so , when wicked men shall winde themselves in about a Prince , and abuse his name , or pervert his minde , How shall the Prince be preserved ? How shall the Countrey , the State , Religion , Lawes , Order , and particular mens estates be saved from ruine ? As hath been profitably and necessarily practised ( divers times before ) in this Kingdome ; and of late by us upon a flat necessity for his own good , and the good of the Countrey . And for my own part ( I will answer for one , and can answer but for one ) his good did as much move me to that course , as any private interest of my own : and I still shall as much regard it ( by GODS grace ) so long as this weak life is in my body . I know not how long that will be , and who lives longest , lives but a short time ; and I account not that hee lives , who lives onely to live this life , or to enjoy any thing that is in it . This Lesson I have learned substantially ( so my GOD hath schooled me ) and I speak it to you seriously , knowing to whom I speak . Neither shall ever any endeavour of mine have any particular for the last end of it . That all is not so well done and so clearly to the satisfaction of the Ministery , and all honestly affected , it grieves me as much as any , and I am not ignorant that these inconvenients follow thereupon , That we undergo the slander of respecting our particular , Of carelesnesse of the Church and Countrey ; as though all our speeches and Proclamations tending that way , had been but pretexts , and that if ever any such businesse should fall out again , our credit will not be so great . Yet ( not for these causes , but for the well doing it self ) my desire is , That every thing be rightly done , because it is right so to doe . But what can I help it ? I am but one of the society , neither can I perswade my associats to do otherwayes , nor am I able to compell them , nor were it fit I should , it not being the Law of a society to doe so ; but to do all with commune consent , and to obtaine what may bee obtained by a fair way , but to go no further . Otherwayes it would quickly dissolve into divers factions amongst our selves , and make some of us joyne with others to the overthrow of us all : which if ever it come to passe , it shall never be through any occasion from me . Men think ( I know ) that my place is a principall one , yet it is but the place of one ; neither is it so principall , but that there is as principall as it , equall to it , or ( perhaps ) beyond it , in respect of proxinitie to the Kingdome , if it should fall out so , which GOD forbid it should . For no King ( you know ) can ever bee so neare to mee , and therefore there is none whom I should or will affect so much . And this is it that carries it away from me , and gives them no little advantage : The Lord Hamilton being next the Crowne , is guided by the Master of Glames : and the Master delights to bee deep in his counsels , and pleaseth himself in this form of managing affaires , which you see is now used . I have many times told him ( and others also ) my opinion , but cannot bring them to it . If I should take a course to crosse and force them , How dangerous were it ? Yea , what concurrence or assistance should I have ? Or , of whose friendship could I assure my self ? Maxwell , you know what his respects are : and what Religion he is of . I can never forget the Watch-word he gave at Fawkirk , whereby he did plainly professe his disposition to superstition , Saint Andrew was it . And who knowes what intention he hath to retain the title of the Earle of Morton . As for your Chief ( the Lord Hume ) dare we think better of him ? My brother-in-law ( the Earle Bothwell ) how uncertain is hee ? What ado had I to retaine him at Fawkirk ? And what trouble have I still to keep him in good order ? There is onely one , of whose stedfastnesse and friendship I dare assure my self , as much as of my self , who is loving , faithfull and constant , and that is the Earle of Marre : yet hee hath been so tossed with troubles already , that he is loath to intangle himself a new , if it can be avoided any way . And why should not I be as loath to put him to any hazard , or to occasion any trouble to him , contrary to his disposition ? GOD forbid , but that I should ▪ bee as carefull of him as hee is of himself . And concerning their proceedings ; as I do not approve them altogether , so dare I not condemne them altogether . Wee have to doe with our Prince ; what should we not doe to gain him by all faire and Gentle meanes ? Wee ought not to crosse or thrall his will , but to draw it easily to a better temper ; and not so much oppose him , as by complying with his inclination a little , to winde him from that ill way and course hee hath beene set upon . He desires to bee at liberty , and to bee knowne to bee so , and it approves and justifies our proceedings to have it so , and testifies to him and to the world , our love and obedience , and what our mindes have been from the beginning toward him . Hee promiseth not to withdraw himself from us , to joyne with others ; our trusting of his promise will deserve that hee should continue with us , and will gaine his affection , which is a surer bond than a guard placed about him ; which would entertaine mutuall suspition , and move him to seek meanes of freeing himself from us : and hardly could any guard bee so kept , but that one set to escape , might ●…inde a way for it ; not to speak of the charges that were required to entertaine it . Neither need wee to feare much , though hee had a minde to forsake us ; for wee know who would or could bee our partie , and what forces they have . That there are some suffered to remaine about him , who are no good friends to us , nay , who have been evill instruments against us , proceeds from the same ground : for it is done , that himself and others may see his liberty , and what confidence wee have in him . That the state of the Ministery is not brought to that point which we wish : wee cannot get it done suddenly , except wee will plain●…y and directly enforce his will : and how many would agree or concurre to that ? But wee hope to work it with his owne consent in time : for the Ministery insist in their right , and he commits them ; and wee intercede and mitigate his anger so farre , that it proceeds onely to a short and easie confinement or imprisoning . In the mean time , they have leasure to informe him , and hee of himself will be wearied with such continuall opposition ; and will give way to settle such a course as they desire ; and so it will be better and more durable , than if it should now bee extorted from him by any show of compulsion . These bee the grounds , upon which such as think themselves very wise amongst us , build their work ; which though it be not so framed , as to give every man present satisfaction ( who knowes not what their way is ? or if they knew , allowes not of it ? ) yet when they shall finde the effects thereof , they will think better of them . Neither are they afraid to want the assistance of such as are honestly affected , in case wee should bee assaulted by any ; for they cannot betake themselves to any other , having none else from whom they can look for any good in the least measure : nay , who is there besides , that hath no●… a very bad meaning ? And wee , though wee doe not all the good ●…hey would ; yet are wee doing somewhat , and keep off much evill ; and therefore they will ●…ather take part with us , than suffer all to go to wrack . You may happly think that you have much to say against this : but ( as I said before ) though I approve not all , yet I do not condemne all ; so I say now , though I report all , yet I doe not approve of all ; and doe confesse that wee should doe much more , and it were better if wee could agree to it , and bee all of one minde . Yet this is the wisedome of our deepest and profoundest Politicians , whom I am resolved not to crosse nor presse any more , but to take my hazard amongst the rest ; and I doe hope , GOD will provide for me as well as for them , and that my part shall bee as well known every way to honest men . And therefore we will have no more objections nor reasoning at this time . Well , my Lord ( said the other ) it shall bee so then ; wee shall reason no more of this Subject . Indeed your Lordships part is best interpreted , save that they think that your authority should be of greater moment ( as you may see by this Letter ) and that you should rather go before all , than follow any . This one thing give me leave to remember concerning the King ; Hee is the most apparent instrument that is in Europe ( and so in the world ) of whom wee can expect greatest good and comfort to the Church of GOD ; as being the onely King that hath been bred in the purity and sincerity of Religigion , and therefore of great expectation ; and because of this expectation , greatly favoured and beloved of all true Professours of Religion every where : He is of a great spirit , ingine , wit , judgement , and learning . Great pity therefore it were , that such an one should be lost , either through corruption creeping into his own minde , or by the poysonable suggestions of others . You doe therefore exceeding well to cherish him calmly , and to entreat him gently , and deale with him in an humble and submisse manner ; which is the way to tame and gaine even wilde-beasts that are without reason ; farre more is it like to prevaile with reasonable men ; and most of all with Princes , who in respect of the height of their place , are not to be violently thralled or enforced , which were the way to spoyle them : as they write of Alexanders horse Bucephalus , whom Philips riders could not manage or over-master by force of bit or bridle , but Alexander by stroking and making much of him , made him manageable . And if ever you intend any worthy or great enterprise in this Countrey or in Europe , behold the mean , use it wisely , and the LORD of Heaven give successe . But this ( I hope ) may be suggested to your consideration , that you would weigh with your selves , and see whether or not this obsequiousnesse ( so to term it ) be the onely mean to be used toward him , smoothing all , and allowing all ; never mentioning the abuses that have been , and yet are in this Countrey ; or if it be not fit also to remonstrate freely ( though reverently ) what hath been , or ( perhaps ) yet is amisse in Religion and the common-wealth , in some such forme as is set down here in the end of this Letter . And whether it bee fit or tolerable for the gaining of him to a right course that such men as have no good meaning , have his eare , and bee his most intimate and ●…nward Councellours . Now I feare mee greatly that the meane by which they have perverted all , and which may be still used to pervert all , and whereby they have gained most upon his tender age , is the eye he hath to our neighbour Kingdome of England , upon which his minde is greatly set , and to which ( no question ) he hath the right of succession ; yet hath he need of assistance to obtaine the possession thereof . And they perswade him ( as hee may also thinke of himselfe ) that this cannot be done without helpe from the Papists in England , France , Spaine , Italie , and from Rome it selfe ; and that the way to make them to be for him , is to put them in hope of him , by ( perhaps ) a present toleration , countenancing , cherishing , and advancing of their Religion . And this ( he may thinke ) cannot stand with the puritie of Discipline , and Government of our Church , which may make him the more averse , and hardly affected toward it , and thinke it fit to curbe it , and so the more to encline to Episcopacie ; by which as he shall more please the Statesmen of England , so shall he be able the more to restraine our Preachers , and their freedome of speech , and the more freely deale and trafficke with Papists , and so make use of all sorts of people , because he may thinke all sorts necessary for his ends , whereas ( indeed ) none of these are of great consequence . For Papists that are without the Countrey ( as France or Spaine ) will never in their hearts wish him to be King of England . France for his nearnesse to them will not desire that he be so great , in respect of hi●… claime to their owne Countrey , and because so the league with Scotland will fall , and they shall want the assistance of the Scots against that title . Spaine pretends a title themselves , which the Papists in England will rather set forward then hinder . Such Papists as are within the Island are of small force , and almost of none yet in Scotland , and not so many in England as to counterpoise the Protestants . Bishops there stand by the State , not the State by them ; men of meane birth , no great riches , lesse following , attendance , or friendship ; easie to be framed to what course he pleaseth , their life-time being reserved , or without condition . Those that seek Reformation are the strength of that Countrey , and certainly the wisest in it , of greatest power by the peoples favour , and credit in Parliament , and every where . Your Lordship hath seene the lettter directed to you all from some of them , containing their judgement , not to be contemned : gaine these , gaine that Countrey . This ( as it is the truth ) would be imprinted in his minde by such persons and meanes as are fit , and others removed , who perswade him otherwise , and his Majestie made to know , that by blending and mingling of Religions , or by professing , or seeming to favour and incline to a contrary Religion , hee cannot attaine to that Kingdome . That hee is happy in this , that the professing and advancing of the true Religion is most profitable for his honour , and prosperous estate in the world , and the best meane to preserve his owne , and to attaine another Kingdome . Neither doth hee stand in need of any bastard , or spurious policie , or farre sought , profane , or wicked course ; a plaine and sincere uprightnesse , in maintaining justice , pietie and religion in this his present Kingdome , will serve his turne ; and the more seriously , fully , and exactly that he observe and follow this way , it will increase his credit and reputation so much the more there , and facilitate his designes . And this is that which will most throughly joyne him to your Lordship , as the opinion of the contrarie is the most effectuall meane that ever they can use to dis-joyne him from you . From the same ground it arises to be considered , whether it be fit to suffer his Majestie and the Ministerie to bee at such variance , they finding fault with him , and he committing and confining them ; and if it be not to be feared that it beget in him a loathing of them , and in them and the Countrey a wearinesse of him : And whether ( therefore ) it were not better to interpose your credit to informe him freely and truly , then thus to looke through your fingers ( as wee speake ) and behold things , and onely now and then procure some little reliefe to them ▪ which forme of dealing rather fosters the rancour , then remedies it , seeing the King gets not the thanks of it himselfe . Certainely if I were a Politician , an ill affected Statesman , and had a desire to make way for another intrant , I would take this course to incense him , and irritate him against the Ministerie , that hee might commit them ; or at least feed and foster his disposition herein , that so hee might bee brought to loathe them , and to bee loathed of them , and so take away that great expectation men had of his Religion , and their love to him for it : I would separate and divide him from such , and such from him ; then bring him to a neutralitie in Religion ; then to countenance men of contrary Religion ; then stirre suspicions on each side ; then alienation would follow ; and what not ? But as I am , out of my poore affection toward his Majestie , I doe wish that these occasions were taken away . I wish ( I say ) that your Lordship see to it , as you would have things right , and out of that minde you spake of , which was , that you have the honour to bee nearer in kinne to him , then to any King that can come after him ; howbeit your Lordship is in the same degree of kindred with the next apparent , my Lord Hammiltouns children . But you desire no change , I know , and that it may continue in the present race , as I am perswaded that Hammiltoun himselfe hath no other minde : yet the matter is worthy your Lordships consideration , so much the more , as ye have had experience how farre evill company about him hath had power alreadie to make things goe on . I leave it , and rest , as having no part or particular save onely to wish well , and to follow , as your Lordship goes before . In the meane time I have also here a note ( of a sheet of paper or two ) concerning the abuses in the Church and Common-wealth , sent to me by master James Melvin , to be ( I know ) imparted to your Lordship : you may lay it by you , and reade it when you have leasure , for your remembrance . This hee tooke ; and having read a little of it , with a deepe sigh , ( which expressed the inward passion of his heart ) God knowes my part ( sayes hee ) I shall neglect nothing that is possible for mee to doe ; and would to God the King knew my heart , how I am affected to his welfare , and would give eare to mee . But , &c. Many times was hee most earnestly dealt with to take more upon him , to frequent the Court more , and to make his residence at it ; especially by Sir Lewis Ballandine . His pretext was the common cause , and the good of it ; but it proceeded from a particular betwixt him and master John Metellane , then Secretarie , who had crossed him in some suite hee had concerning Orkney , and drawne the halfe of it to his owne use . For which cause hee endeavoured to employ the same Gentleman to have perswaded my Lord to that purpose : but he knowing both my Lords inabilitie of body , and aversenesse of minde , told him sincerely and plainly which way my Lord was inclined ; and that his disposition was not to be drawn by any man farther then he thought fit , out of his owne discourse of reason . And for his owne part , hee was to follow his Lordship , and not to goe before him , or prescribe him what he should doe . Sir Lewis grieved very much hereat , having beene familiar with him of old , and complained to his friends , that the Earle of Angus was too slow , and that he had one with him that was as slow as himselfe . Not long after , the infirmitie of his body increasing , and his strength and health decreasing , he was seldome able to come to Court , and could not stay long at it when he did come . I finde ( in a note of those times ) that at the Parliament holden in Edinburgh 1587. ( in June ) there was some dispute betwixt the Earle of Angus , and Master of Glames . But I remember no such thing , neither doe I know how there could bee any publicke dissention ( either in this , or any other thing ) howbeit they differed in judgement concerning the guiding O●… State affaires , yet I see not how that could come to any publicke contention . His associates propounded to him to accept the Office of Chancellour , which had beene vacant ever since the removing of James Stuart . This hee did familiarly impart to the former Gentleman , and asked his opinion therein . Hee answered plainly , That it was indeed the most fit place for him , as being the most honourable Office in the Kingdome , by which he might doe most good offices to his Countrey , in Councell , Session , and elsewhere ; and that by that occasion it brought great dependance , and many followers : That it had beene before in the hands of his Predecessours , as of Earle Archbald the first ( called Bell the Cat ) and of late in the Earle of Mortons , before he was Regent . Hee answered , that it required skill in the lawes , and more learning then hee had . It was replied , that ( in very deed ) much learning was not absolutely necessary ; that it was not knowne what learning Archbald the first had , and it is not likely that hee had much . But it was well knowne that the Earle of Morton had very little , or none at all to speake of , not so much in the Latine tongue as he himselfe had ; and yet hee had discharged the Office with credit . A naturall judgement to conceive and resume the question , and the reasons of each side , is more needfull in a Chancellour then learning , his part being properly to doe that , whereas the decision seldome hangs upon his vote . Or if it come to that , learning does not alwayes the turne , knowledge of the customes of the Countrey is more requisite , and is onely required in Councell . As for the Session businesse , the President does commonly supply the Chancellours roome . Besides , seeing that ordinarily the question is not ended at the first hearing , what is difficult may be advised , and tossed by whom your Lordship pleaseth , before the next hearing . And although you finde not that full sufficiencie for the present , which you could wish , yet time and custome will bring experience , and experience beget knowledge . And this is said to have beene observed of the Earle of Morton , that having beene rude enough at first , he became afterward very skilfull , and as able and sufficient as any man in the Kingdome : and therefore your Lordship needs not to distrust or diffide your selfe in the like case . Well ( saies my Lord ) I know not what dexteritie either of them hath had : and as for the Earle of Morton , though he wanted letters , yet hee was of a singular judgement , and rare wisedome , scarce to be matched by any in this age . But for my owne part ( as I yet thinke ) neither am I able for the present to discharge it , neither doe I thinke it fit to enter into an Office before I have learned what belongs to it ; neither can I digest to doe it by others , seeing I ought to doe it my selfe : yet I shall advise . The conclusion was , he rejected it , and thereupon it was given to Secretarie Metellane , to his associates great griefe , he having ever been a man of a contrary faction and disposition in all businesse of the Common-weale . Hee accepted of the Office of Lieutenant on the Borders willingly , being more sutable to his disposition , and his proper element , as we speake ; and he professed that he delighted as much to hunt out a theefe , as others did to hunt a hare ; and that it was as naturall to him , as any other pastime or exercise is to another man. But he lived not long after this , nor had he time to doe any memorable thing in it . He made onely one roade against the outlawed theeves of the name of Arme-strang ( most of them ) after the King was gone home , who had beene present at the casting downe of their houses . Hee pursued them into the Tarrasse Mosse , which was one of their greatest strengths , and whither no hoast or companies had ever beene known to have followed them before ; and in which they did confide much , because of the straightnesse of the ground . He used great diligence , and sufficient industry ; but the successe was not answerable either to his desire , or other mens expectation . Neither did hee forget to keepe his intention close , and ●…ecret , acquainting none of the people of that Countrey therewithall , untill he was ready to march . Then directing one Jordan of Aplegirth to goe to the other side , whither hee knew they behooved to flee , hee sent with him one of his especiall followers , whom hee knew to bee well affected to the service , to see that hee did his dutie . Hee himselfe with the Armie came openly and directly to the place of their aboade , that they fleeing from him , might fall into the hands of Aplegirth , and his companie , who were come in sufficient good time , before the Army could bee seene to that passage which they were sent to keep . But the birds were all flowne , and there was nothing left but the empty nest , having ( no question ) had some inkling and intelligence hereof ; but it could not be tried by whom the notice had been given them . In the retreat , they shew themselves , and rode about to intercept and catch such as might happen incircumspectly to straggle from the Army , and they failed very narrowly to have attrapped William Douglas of Ively , a young Gentleman of my Lords family ; for which incircumspection , he was soundly chid by him , as having thereby hazarded his owne person , and his Lords honour . After this he came to Langhop , where his infirmity having continued long , and being now increased through travell , it grew at last to a formed disease . Wherefore hee was carried from thence to Smeeton , ( neare to Dalkeith ) a house belonging to James Richison , of whom wee have spoken before . His care of the good of the Church ( which was ever in his mouth during his sicknesse ) shewed that it lay nearest to his heart of all other things . There hee departed out of this transitory life , with great comfort to himselfe , and great griefe of all honest men , and with a generall regreting of all men ; there being none such an enemy to him , or who did so envie or hate him , as not to professe and expresse his sorrow for his death : King , Courtiers , Noblemen , Barons , Burgesses , Commons ; men of all degrees , ranke , qualitie and condition , did lament him : such was the forceable power of vertue in him . Of which wee will say no more , onely we will set downe this following Elogium to be considered by the Reader , then which nothing can bee said more true : Here therefore let it remaine as a witnesse of his vertue , and the Writers deserved affection . Morte jacet saevâ Angusius , spes illa bonorum , Terror malorum maximus : Cui , laude & luctu meritis , pia turba parentat ; Patrem , Parentem ingeminans . Par studium impietas simulat : quem carpere livor Vivum solebat , mortuum Aut veris sequitur lacrymis , aut gaudia fictis Celat pudenda ; & laudibus Saltem non fictis os penè invita resolvit , Seque arguit mendacii . O laus ! O veri vis ! O victoria ! honosque Cunctis triumphis clarior ! Yet were not the aspersions of his enemies ( if hee had any such ) of any moment or consequence : I say , if he had any , for he had no private enemies who hated him , or bore him any ill will for his owne cause ; onely such as were enemies to the Countrey , and the true Religion , hated him as a main pillar , and supporter of these . The greatest objection they had against him ( I mean that carried any show of truth ) was his modestie , ( which they termed slownesse ) but after his death , all mouthes were closed . The love which was generally borne to him was exceeding great , both for his house and families sake ( which was ever the most popular in this Kingdome of all other names ) as also , and that no lesse for his owne vertue , and personall humanitie and courtesie . He was of a blackish and swart complexion , tall'of stature , and of a slender body , but well proportioned and straight limmed ; of a weake and tender constitution , and not very able to endure travell , but having courage enough , and willingnesse to undergoe . His death was ascribed to witchcraft : and one Barbary Nepair in Edinburgh ( wife to Archbald Douglas , of the house of Casshogle ) was apprehended on suspition , but I know not whether shee was convicted of it or not : onely it was reported that she was found guiltie , and that the execution was deferred , because she was with childe , but afterward , no body insisting in the pursuit of her , shee was set at libertie . Anna Simson , a famous witch , is reported to have confessed at her death , that a picture of waxe was brought to her , having A. D. written on it , which ( as they said to her ) did signifie Archbald Davidson , and ( shee not thinking of the Earle of Angus , whose name was Archbald Douglas , and might have beene called Davidson , because his fathers name was David ) did consecrate or execrate it , after her forme , which ( she said ) if she had knowne to have represented him , she would not have done it for all the world . He died the day of 1588. yeares : his body was buried in Abernathie , and his heart in Douglas , by his owne direction . He is the last Earle of the race of George , entitled Master of Angus , who was slain at Flowdon , &c. Of Archbald the ninth Earle of Angus . Angus by cruell death lies here , The good mans hope , the wickeds feare ; The praise and sorrow of the most Religious , who as having lost A father , mourn ; worst men are knowne To faine a woe i●… they have none : Envie , accustomed to wrong His guiltlesse life , imployes her tongue , Now a loud Trumpet of his ●…ame , And weeps , if not for grief , for shame , Enforc't to give her selfe the lie : O! Power of Truth , O! victory , By which more honour is obtain'd , Then is in greatest triumphs gain ▪ d. Archibaldus Duglassius Angusius . OLim saeva truci dente calumnia Clam vanas ad opes fraude viam struens Mussabat , posito aut palam pudore Jactabat caput in me●…m : ( O si non nimium credita ! ) Crimina , Foeda atrociaque infandaque crimina , Aut Diro Lepedo , aut fero Cethegi Patrandum genio nefas . Quos caecis stimulis ambitio impotens , Aut aestu rabies fervida pectoris , Auri aut sacra mali fames in omne , Egit praecipites scelus . Moliri in patriam incendia , spicula In patrem patriae , sanctaque numina Regum alti solio Jovae locata Celsis pellere sedibus : Regni praesidium , spem , decus exsterae Genti ludibrium tradere , civium Vota , & pontificis ( nefas ) tyranni , Romae degeneris metum . O linguae improbitas , callida nectere Fraudes , insidias , exitium bonis : Regum aures animosque suspicaces , Ficto ludere crimine . Haec cuncti cumulum flagitii manus Patrare ? haec facinus mens coquere impium ! Haec coctum potuit probare ? pectus Hoc conscire nefas sibi . At me qui sapiens intima sensuum Scrutaris Deus ( & quisquis erat mihi Arcani penito sinu reposti Testis ) crimine liberas . Vitae perpetuus compositae tenor , Mens legum patiens , imperii jugum Justi legitimum subire mitis ; Cunctis cedere lenitas : Non claros atavos stemmate regio , Regnatasque atavis penè provincias Et belli decora , & feri triumphis Partam Martis adoream : Non longo titulos ordine turgidos , Arces pennigeris turribus arduas , Non turbam numerans gravem clientum , aut Latis praedia finibus . Nudi simplicitas candida pectoris Et semper similis cana fides sui , Fraudes impietas licet , dolosque Laudans clam sibi rideat . Sincerae rigidè justitiae tenax Dextra , a flagitio libera , sanguinis Expers innocui , doli rapinae , Solis noxia furibus . Archbald Douglas Earle of Angus . BLack slander erst her ends to gaine , Employ'd her Art to wound my name Low whispers were her secret traine , Her open force lies void of shame . O! that they had lesse credit found , As from the thought my heart was free ; Lepidus nor Cethegus own'd Such mischiefs as were charg'd on me : Whom love of vengeance set on fire , Or blinde ambition overswaid , Or hope of riches or desire Of pleasure , t' every vice betraid , As if my soul such plots had knowne As would a publicke ruine bring By justling from his sacred Throne My Countreyes father , a●…d my King. And so to forraigne scorne expose The Kingdomes glory , shield and hope ; The peoples joy and dayly vowes , The scourge and terrour of the Pope . Thus wicked tongues with cunning Art Weave nets , the innocent to catch , And to the jealous eare impart Fain'd treasons , which their fanciesatch . So base a villanie to act Was it , for such a hand as mine , Or could my breast contrive the fact , Or conscious be of the black sinne . But I appeale my God to thee , Who know'st my heart , and to those friends Who were most intimate with me , How much I loath'd unworthy ends . The constant tenour of my life , Was calme obedience to the will Of rightfull power : detesting strife I shunn'd ( more then resisted ) ill . Though my descent from Kings I drew , And in my Grandsiers well might see A Princely power , none ever knew A bragging vanitie in me . No emptie titles fill'd my minde With hatefull pride ; nor stately tops Of Towr's , large fields , nor troups of kinde And humble followers , swell'd my hopes . An equall vertue led my way , A spotlesse truth adorn'd my heart , Let wicked falsehood boast and say ; Loe what I compast by my Art. By me sincere strict Justice dwelt , From guiltlesse bloud my hand was free , No wrong my harmlesse neighbour felt , Onely theeves punisht were by mee . Ad Archibaldum tertium , cum post primum exilium reversus , ultra Speiam Elginii in Moravia relegatus esset . NUper fortunae varias experte procellas Angusie , & velis aequora iniqua tuis : Nuper in immenso pelagi jactate profundo : Obruteque insanis pene voraginibus : Nunc quoque nescio quos iterum subiture labores , Quicquid id est sorti pectore perfer onus . Discute tristitiae nebulas ; frontemque serena : Anxietas animo sit procul atra tuo : Pelle graves curas , proper antem & parce sever●… Sponte suâ fati praecipitare diem : Degeneres animos flatus levis aura sinistri De●…icit , aeternis in tenebrisque premit : At mala cum pungunt , tuleris si fortiter illa : Materiesque tibi causaque laudis erunt . Scilic et ille viros dignus numerarier inter : Hunc sequitur firmo gloria celsa pede : Cui dejecit mutatum nubila vultum , Blanda nec in fastus sustulit aura leves : Qui solidum vitae servans , certumque tenorem , Robore fortunam vicit utramque pari . Ut fremat hinc Boreas , illinc ruat Eurus & auster , Et quatiat timidam fluctibus unda ratem : Illa tamen medios inter secura tumultus Aetheris ; & rapidi vimque minasque freti , Saepe tenet cursum optatum , portuque potita Despicit irati murmura rauca maris . Hinc cape non obscura tuae exemplaria vitae Dura : nec rebus cedere disce malis . Magnis te quoque junge viris : quid passus Ulysses ? Exul in ignoto nudus inopsque solo . Quid cui Roma suae tulit incunabula gentis ? Queis sua in Adriaco Troia renata mari ? At quid ego haec antiqua ? quid & peregrina recordor ? Ditior exemplis stat patria alta suis : Stat genus ordine longo : atavos age , respice , avosque , Quot sunt Duglasiae nomina magne domus : Quot bello insignesque duces ; & fortibus armis Heroes ; saecli gloria quisque sui . Quem non nobilitat virtus afflicta ? polo quem Non aequat ? numera : vix reor , unus erit . Omnis turba salo fortunae exercita , & omnes Passa vices , versae ludibriumque rotae : Quas pax infida insidias , discrimina bellum Quaeque habet exilii taedia , longa dies : Nec nisi post exantlatos , venere , labores , Otia ; nec nisi post dura pericla quies . Te quoque defunctum , confide , laboribus olim Laetior excipiet , candidiorque dies . Securusque inter dulces memorabis amicos , Tu quoque fortunae tristitia factatuae . Tristia nunc : sed quae tunc & meminisse juvabit : Agnosse & decoris prima elementa tui : Hac itum : hac quicunque alta affectabit , eundum est : Hâc te sublimi , gloria celsa , via Sistet avos supra , atque atavos , accingere : O te Quo sors ! quo virtus ! quo Deus ipse vocat ! Fallor ? an heroas supra priscosque futurosque Tollere te tanta sydera mole parant Virtuti labor est comes : ire per ardua rerum Gaudet & invicto fata superba gradu . Aude ingens , jam nunc superi ad templa ardui Olympi Carpere , qua pronum semita monstrat iter : Aude , inquam , nec tu surgentia nubila ventis Aethera terram , undas tartarave ipsa time . Tantum , quem venerare Deum pius , igneus insta Sollicitans ; cursus diriget ille tuos . Ille gubernaclo succedet rector & ille Inveniet facilem per vada salsa viam Anfractusque vagos per , & avia , & invia vitae , Et brevia , & syrtes saxaque caeca ratem Securam in placida sistet statione : perenne Ut teneas celsi flammea templa poli . To Archbald the third , when after his returne from his first banishment , he was confined to Elgine of Murray beyond Spey . THou who but lately didst endure the smart Of roughest stormes , and with a Pilots art Hast scap'd the many dangers of the seas , O Angus ! now in place of wished ease New troubles come : I know not by what fate : Keep your great spirit firme in every state . Shake off sad thoughts , and let your looks appear Chearfull , without the darkning clouds of fear . Deep cares expell , let not impatience haste Those ills , which of themselves approach too fast . Poor worthlesse soules are prest below the weight Of light afflictions ; to a noble height In crosse affaires doe thou thy courage raise : By this thou maist obtaine deserved praise . He merits honour , and may justly be Esteem'd a man , whom no adversitie Dejects , nor prosperous successe swels with pride ; But by a constant temper doth abide Still like himselfe , and with an equall minde Both fortunes beares . Let every boistrous winde And threatning wave oppose his labouring oare , He steeres his course , and seekes the wished shoare , Slighting the angry waters chiding noise . Let these ( like hard ) examples prompt your choice : Learne to meet ills , till you with all compare For fortitude admir'd : Ulysses bare Worse harmes then yours ; a stranger , poore , alone , Uncloath'd , an Exile , wandring and unknowne . Aeneas and Antenor suffered long Ere Rome was built , or Venice : but I wrong Our owne , to dwell on strangers , since there be More store at home : marke the whole Progenie Of Douglasses your fathers , how they are Fam'd for their gallant acts in peace and warre : Each worthy was the glory of his time : None without vertue can to honour climbe . Looke on all ages , you shall hardly see One rais'd by fortune , but through miserie . Who live at ease , and least disturbance feele , Soone beare the mock'ry of her rowling wheele . How many traines hath peace ? What discords warre ? What troubles exile ? Yet no pleasures are O 〈◊〉 but after toile ; nor have we rest Till 〈◊〉 and difficulties are past . So thou , when this is past , hereafter may Injoy at home a calme and pleasing day : And to your dear friends chearfully relate The sad effects of Fortunes sullen hate : Sad now , but pleasant to remember , when Your prentisage hath brought a noble gaine . This is the way : would you a great name win ? Then tread the steps your Grandsires travell'd in . Where Vertue , Fortune , where your God doth call , Follow : my thoughts deceive me , or you shall Excell those Worthies who alreadie are , Or will be famous : so the starres prepare Your youth . Faire vertue never dwells alone , Hard labour is her neare companion : Un-easie taskes she loves , and joyes to beat The roughest wayes , and triumph over fate . Be bold and onward , take your mounting flight , Till you have reacht a true Olympian height . Be bold , I say , and let no furious winde , ( Though earth and hell should mix ) shake your brave minde . Onely with God , whom you must still adore , You may be instant , and his aid implore : Let him direct your course , and he will be Your Pilot through the waves of misery , Steering your barke by every Rocke and Shelfe : Each strait and wheeling Poole His sacred Selfe Will guide the Oare , first to a place of rest On earth , then after death thou shalt be bl●…st . ●…aults escaped in some copies . IN the Preface , page 6. line 18. for Long Willie , reade Longe-ville , p. 11. l. 2. for unum , r. unam . l. 15. for 〈◊〉 , r , Duglasiis . In the Booke , p. 14. l. 21. for wanted , r. was . p. 25. l. 11. supply sonne . p. 34. l. 36. supply lessened . p. 43 l. 1. sup . long . p. 52. l. 43. for in furious , r. injurious . p. 64. l. 1. for people . r. pope . p. 70. 72. 74. 76. 78. in the titles , for Galloway , r. Liddesdale . p. 76. l. 17. for rather , brother , r. father-brother . p. 80. l. 13. for Douglas , r. Angus . p. 85. l. 8. sup . Prince . p. 102. l. 37. for words , r. wounds . p 107. l. 42. for making , r. marrying . p. 131. l. 38 sup . not p. 145. l. 7. for thing , r. though . p. 148. l. 30. r. therefore ●…ow on . p. 154. l. 34. for extracted , r. execrated . p. 168. l. 31. for life , r. Fife . p. 171. l. 44. r. the prisoners goods were exchanged . p. 177. l. 18. for moved , r. composed . p. 179. l. 34. for new , r. shew . p. 233. l. 30. sup . not . p. 244. l. 〈◊〉 sup . not . p. 277. l. 3. sup . honos . p. 278. l. 10. for mother , r. brother . p. 335. l. 32. sup . out of . FINIS Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A45112-e1690 Their Antiquitie and Originall . 2 Of their Nobility . 1. Of Vertue . 2. Of Degrees . 3. Of Offices and imployment . 4. Of bloud . 5. Of Fame . 3. Greatnesse . 4. Their 〈◊〉 lour . Notes for div A45112-e5150 Liv. lib. 7. d●… lacu Curtio . Livius . B●…et . lib. 10. pag. 195. Holl. p. 164. Scot. Chr●… . Anno 787. 1316. King Robert Bruce in Ireland . The whi●… 〈◊〉 . The battell of Billand . 〈◊〉 . The Douglas Emrauld Charter . Douglas sent into France to Balliol . 1327 Douglas at Stanhop park ▪ Peace with England . King ●…ruce , 〈◊〉 1329 His marriage . He is made Lord of Galloway . His sonnes . 1332. Battell at Duplin . Balliol Crowned at Scone . Douglas 〈◊〉 Balliol at Annand , the 25. of December , 133●… . Warre proclaimed . Berwick 〈◊〉 sieged by K. Edward the third . Occasion of the battell at Halidoun hil●… . Sonne naturall to Sir James . Her marriage One childe 〈◊〉 . 1335 Convention ▪ at Perth , 2. April . 1335. Cummin overthrown at Kilblane , and slain . 1337. A battell at Blackburne . John Stirline defeated by Liddesdale . He takes the Castle of Hermitage . Hee fighteth five times with Lawrence in one day , and 〈◊〉 him . He is sent Ambassadour into France . Perth besieged by Robert Stuart . Recovereth Cowper . Perth taken . Stirline taken The originall of Innerleith . Occ●…sion of taking the Castle of Edinburgh . The Castle taken , hee makes Archbald Douglas his brother Keeper . Alexander Ramsay taken by Liddisdale , and starved in the Hermitage . 1346. He is banished and restored again . The battell of Durham . King David taken . Liddesdale taken also . 1353 He is slaine by the Earle of Douglas . His marriage , wives , and children . Hee is taken prisoner at Durham . Ransomed . He killes Liddesdale . And obtains his whole estate . Conflict at Nisbet-moor . He takes Berwick . 1355. R●…gained by the English , Douglas at the battell of Poictiers . 1363 A Parliament The union of the Kingdomes sought . Sir Thomas Musgrave tak●…n by Douglas . The originall of the house of Glammes . 1384. Earle Douglas ●…ath . His wife and children . The Originall , of the houses of Drumlanrig , and 〈◊〉 . He goeth into France . He taketh Berwick . 15000. horsemen . Occasion of the battell of Otterburn . A combat betwixt Percie and Douglas . The battell of Otterburn . Douglas slain . Buried at Melrosse . He taketh and razeth the Castle of Lochmabane . His death . He found the Hospitall of Holywood . He is called the blacke Douglas . He marries the Kings daughter Egidia . His daughter married to the 〈◊〉 of Orkney . 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 into Ireland . He takes and burnes Calinfoord . He returnes out of Ireland He is made Admirall . He is murthered by the Lord Clifford . His marriage . His children . He refused to be Duke . His daughter Marjory contracted to Prince David . 1400. Their marriage . His death . He founded the Colledge o●… Bothwell . His children . Or Tine man. Edinburgh Castle 〈◊〉 by Douglas against King Henry the fourth . Occasion of the battell of H●…mildon , n●…ere Milfi●…ld The bat●…ll lost , and Douglas taken . Occ●…sion of the 〈◊〉 of Shrewsbury . Wal●… . Douglas taken 1406. He is set free . He burnes Penmoore . The foule road . His sonne Wigton and Buchan in France . The Duke of Clarence wounded by Sir John Swinton . Clarence slain by Buchan . Pasche Eve. The Earle Douglas goes into France . 〈◊〉 D. of Turraine The occasion of the battell of Vernoill . A battell at Vernoil : Douglas slain . The Scottish guard 〈◊〉 in France . He is sent Ambassadour into England . Brings home the King. Variance betwixt the Governours . His death . Notes for div A45112-e43780 838. 1389. His wife King 〈◊〉 the third his daughter . First Laird of Fintrie . Warden of the middle marches . 1436. The battel at Piperdean . 1436. He overthrevv 〈◊〉 . Sir Gilbert 〈◊〉 of Elph●…nston 〈◊〉 . Dieth 1452. Sibard his wife . Originall of the house of Balgonie , Sibard . Buch. lib. 7. 〈◊〉 Sibaulds . Sibaulds . His children . The originall of the house of Bonjedward . His person . He followeth the King against the Earle Douglas his Chief . 1457. He overthrowes the Earle Douglas & Percie in a bloudie battel in the Merse . Bond of Manreid and service by the Lord Hamilton to him . Indenture betwixt King Henry the sixth and him . 1460. He brings the French out of Anwick Castle . His death . 1462. 1468. His marriage . 1470. His children foure sonnes . Glenbarvies ' originall . Kilspindies originall . Three daughters . Base sonnes , Parkheads originall . He takes order with Cochran and the Courtiers . The rel●…tion thereof . 1474. 〈◊〉 a Mason . Rog●…rs a Singer . The King with his Army at Lawder . The Nobility meet in the Church . Angus makes this speech . The Lord Gray his speech . Angus called Bell the Cat. Cocbran and his fellowes hanged . The Army dismissed the King comes to Edinburgh . Plot against the King. The K. sonne head of the faction of the Nobles against his father . Battell at Bannockbu●…ne . The K. slain ▪ 1488. Five English Ships taken by Andrew Wood. A Parliament at Edinburgh 6. November 1488. Chambe●…lain . Lord Hume Angus Chancellour . Warre with England , and the occasion of the Field of Flowdon . Angus his speech to the King to disswade him from fighting . The field of Flowdon , 1●…13 . Sept. 15. Angus death . 1514. A duel betwixt Angus and Spense . 1489. Cannabbie , 1491. 1510. He marries Q. Margaret . The Queen lo●…th her Regencie by her marriage . Convention about choosing of a Governour . The Duke of Albanie made Governour . Prior 〈◊〉 undermines the Lord Hume . Lady Margaret Douglas born at Harbottle in England . A●…t . Darsius or De la Beau●…e slain 1517. Dissention betwixt Arran and Angus . 1520. Skirmish in Edinburgh betwixt them . 1520. 1521. Angus goeth into France . 1522. 1523. Albanies government abrogated . The Earle of Angus returns out of France . The Triumvirate of Angus , Argyle , and Lennox . The Triumvirate dissolved . The slaughter of Patrick Blackader , Archdeacon of Dumblane . A faction against Angus . Con●…ct betwixt Angus and 〈◊〉 at the bridge of Melrosse . 1526. Arran joynes with Angus , and Le●… makes up a faction against them . Conflict at Linlithgow . ▪ Lennox and Hamilton . Lennox slain . The beginning of a change with Angus , and his discourting . The King escapes to 〈◊〉 Castle . Angus and the Douglasses 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the Court. Parliament at Edinburgh the 6. of Sept. 1528. The Douglasses are forfeited . Tantallon besieged . Argyles expedition against them frustrated . Angus returneth to England . He and Sir George Privie Counsellours there . William . Glames bu●…nt . Kilspindie dieth in France . 〈◊〉 . Hirsel lands given to A. Ker. Fawla . Solemne Mosse . K. James the 〈◊〉 die●…h . 1542. Hamilton Governour . Sir Georg●… Dougla●… hi●… speech concerning marrying with England . Lennox comes home out of France . Angus and Sir George 〈◊〉 prisoner●… . They are 〈◊〉 again . Lennox goes to England ▪ Marries Lady Margaret Douglas . The Governour and Angus at Coldinghame . Sir Ra●… Ivers , and Sir Bria●… Laitons expedition . Angus speech to the Governour . Occasion of Pinkie field . Defeature a●… Pinkie . Queen 〈◊〉 sent into France . Queen-Mother Governour . The devill is in this greedy Glad she will never be full . Angus dyes . His lurking and being a Greeve . He is a prisoner in England . Returnes . Lives retired and privately at home . He comes abroad , and begins to deal in publick affairs . The Queen-Mother dieth . Morton Ambassadour in England . Queen Mary arrives in Scotland . Friendship betwixt Morton and Murray . Their ruine plotted . The Queen goeth to the North , they accompany her . The Queen at Innernesse . 〈◊〉 Gordon beheaded . She goes to Aberdene . The battel at Corrighie , 1562. Lennox and Henry Lord Darnely come ho●…e . Proposition of mar●…iage with the Queen . They mar●…y the 27. of July 1565. The Runne-about Rode. Morton Chancellour . Rizio . Rizio his de●… plotted by the King. Rizio killed . 1566. Martii 8. Morton flees to England . The Lord Ruthven dies there . Bothwell the Queens favourite . Morton returnes . King James borne . 1566. 19. June . The King murdered by Bothwell . The Nobilitie bands against Bothwell . The Queen and Bothwel at Borthwick 〈◊〉 hill . The 〈◊〉 of Carburie hill . 1567. June the 5. King James crowned . 1567. July 26. Murray Regent . Earle Bothwel a Pirate . Is pursued . Flees to Denmark . Dies mad there . The Queen escapes out of Legh-leven . 1568. May 2. The field of Langside the 10. of May. 1568. Langsidelord . May 13. 156●… . The Roade of Hoddam . The Regent goes to England . 1569. A Convention at Perth . Convention at Stirlin . The Earle of Northumberland taken , and sent to Logh-lev●…n . The Regent Murray shot at Lithgow . Convention at Edinburgh , 1. May. 1570. July 13. Lennox Regent . Morton goes to Brechin . The Regent also goes thither . The Garrison yeelds . Morton sent into England ▪ He returnes and comes to Stirlin the 1. of May , 1571. The Lousie-Law . Parliament the 14. of May 1571. without the Gates of Edinburgh . A fight at Craig-Miller the 2. of June 1571. Morton at Leith . Conflict with the Lords of the Queens Faction . The 10. of June . At the Gallow-Law . Parliament in Stirlin , the 4. of August . Contention about Bishops . An attempt upon Stirlin , and the Lord●… there . 〈◊〉 the Regent killed . Buried . 1571. Marre Regent 9. Septemb. Those of Edinburgh set fire in Dalkeith . A truce in August 1572. Marre the Regent dieth the 28. of October . Morton Regent the 24 of Novem. 1572. The Queens partie within the castle of Edinburgh . The Castle blocked up . Parliament at Edinburgh , the 26. of Jan. Siege of the Castle of Edinburgh . 1573. 20. April . The castle rendered the 29. of May. ●…range exe●…ed . Parliament Jan. 26. 1572. Acts concerning Religion . Generall Assembly in Edinburgh . 1573. The P●…ed Swire . M●…ton dimits his Regencie . The Lord Glames slain at Stirlin . Morton President of the Councell . Parliament in Stirlin Castle the 25. of July 1578. Duellbetwixt Tait and Johnston . Athole dies at Stirlin . The King comes to Edinburgh and makes his 〈◊〉 the 17. of October . The beginning of Mortons fall . Obignie comes home in September . 1579. Controversie betwixt the Lord Ruthven and Olyphant . Morton aceused of the K. murther . Imprisoned in the Castle . Morton is sent to Dumbarton . He is brought back to Edinburgh the 27. of May : And there condemned of treason . † It would be knowne what was in these Letters . His confession before his death . Morton brought to the Scaffold . His death . His educatio●… . He fleeth into England . Change in Court. 1582 ▪ Justice Aircs in Perth in July . The roade of Ruthven 1582 August 24. Angus returneth home . He joins with the Lords against the Courtiers . 1583. L●…nox dies in France . Gowrie takes a remission for the fact at Ruthven . A●…an returns to Court. Angus consined beyond Forth . He is sent beyond Spaye . He goeth to Elgin in Murray . Discord betwixt the Ministers and Courtiers . Melvin flees to Berwick . His Apology Gowrie commanded to go beyond sea . Lodowick Duke of Lennox brought home . † Master David Hume . G●… taken at Dundi●… . An●…us comes 〈◊〉 Stirling to 〈◊〉 Lords . The Lords Declaration . The Lords flee from Stirling toward England . Archbald Douglas hanged . Argatie executed . Gowrie bcheaded at Stirlin . 1584. the 28. of April . His Lady basely and beastly used . Parliament at Edinburgh the 22. of May 1584. The Lords forfeited . Prot●…station against she Acts of Parliament by the Ministers . A●…n mocks the Ministers . Maines and Drummewhasle executed . Angus at Newcastle . Angus his kindnesse and bountie . Master John Colvill sent to the Cou●…t of England , A letter from London to Angus from the Authour . 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉 . The Lords brought to London . Mo●…ing against Arran . Sir Lewis Ballandine Ambassadour in England . Sir Francis Russell killed . The Scots sue for a Scottish Church at London , but cannot obtain it . The Lords came to the Borders . They come ●…o Fawkirk the 1. of November 1585. Their Declaration . The Road of 〈◊〉 . M James Halden slain . Stirlin taken by the Lords . They come into the King●… presence . Gl●…mes Treasurer . A letter written to the Authour , concerning the State of those times . Presented t●… Angus . Discourse concerning Mr. Craigs Sermon . Of Obedience to Tyrants , and Impunitie of Tyrants . Bo●…inus his absurdity . Apol. cap. 34. Of Blackwoods opinion . Of Active and Passive Obedience . Angus answereth . The Chancellours place offered ●…o Angus . He rejects it ▪ Met●… made Chancellour . Angus Lieutenant on the Borders ▪ The road at the Tarrasse Mosse . Looke for the translation of these verses in the following page . The translation of the verses in the page foregoing .