A pleasant treatise of witches their imps, and meetings, persons bewitched, magicians, necromancers, incubus, and succubus's, familiar spirits, goblings, pharys, specters, phantasms, places haunted, and devillish impostures : with the difference between good and bad angels, and a true relation of a good genius / by a pen neer the covent of Eluthery. Pen neer the Covent of Eluthery. 1673 Approx. 131 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 68 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2004-03 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A55138 Wing P2564 ESTC R9332 12589970 ocm 12589970 63871 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A55138) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 63871) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 967:25) A pleasant treatise of witches their imps, and meetings, persons bewitched, magicians, necromancers, incubus, and succubus's, familiar spirits, goblings, pharys, specters, phantasms, places haunted, and devillish impostures : with the difference between good and bad angels, and a true relation of a good genius / by a pen neer the covent of Eluthery. Pen neer the Covent of Eluthery. [8], 126 p. Printed by H.B. for C. Wilkinson ... and Tho. Archer and Tho. Burrell ..., London : 1673. Reproduction of original in Huntington Library. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. 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Demonology. 2003-09 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2003-09 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2003-10 Rina Kor Sampled and proofread 2003-10 Rina Kor Text and markup reviewed and edited 2003-12 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion A Pleasant TREATISE OF Witches . Their Imps , and Meetings , Persons bewitched , Magicians , Necromancers , Incubus , and Succubus's , Familiar Spirits , Goblings , Pharys , Specters , Phantasms , Places Haunted , and Devillish Impostures . WITH The difference between Good and Bad Angels , and a true Relation of a good GENIUS . By a Pen neer the Covent of ELUTHERY . LONDON , Printed by H. B. for C. Wilkinson at the Black Boy in Fleetstreet , and Tho. Archer and Tho. Burrell under St. Dunstans-Church , 1673. TO THE READER . THere is an inward Inclination and desire of Knowledge ( gentle Reader ) which hath moved many grave & Learned Authors , amongst the rest of their inquiries , to search into the Nature of those things ; which because they are beyond the reach of common capacity , seem to the vulgar , Fables only , and Poetical Fictions . Amongst the rest of those things , there is nothing hath been more cry'd down by some , and upheld by others ; nothing has had more Defendants on either side , than the possibility of man's having familiarity with Demons . This general Curiosity drew me in among the rest , that were ignorant of such matters , and caused me , for my own Recreation as well as Satisfaction , to allot some spare hours , to a stricter inquiry into these things ; but their scope being so large , and so far extended , so many Arguments stand on the one side , so many on the other , that I fell short of any just determination : Nevertheless , like that Merchant that misses sometimes his designs , yet alwayes comes home well laden , I have found many things by the way , and fill'd this small Treatise with the Pith and Marrow of above a hundred Antient and Modern Authors , whose pleasant Relations have not only been delightful to my self in their Collection , but have wrought so effectually on the Ears of some that have heard but two or three of them ; that not through any desire of mine , but by their frequent and earnest intreaties , I have used these means to satisfie them , and to present thee with this compendious Treatise ; and that thy Acceptance of it may be kind according to my desires ; you shall find nothing here , of those Vulgar , Fabulous , and Idle Tales that are not worth the lending an ear to , nor of those hideous , Sawcer-eyed and Cloven-Footed Divels , that Grandams affright their children withal ; but only the pleasant and well-grounded discourses of the Learned , as an object adequate to thy wise understanding . Farewel . Index . CHAP. I. The manner of the Witches Profession . CHAP. II. Their Imps and Meetings . CHAP. III. Persons Bewitched . CHAP. IV. Magicians and Negromancers . CHAP. V. Incubus and Succubus . CHAP. VI. Familiar Spirits , Goblings , and Pharies . CHAP. VII . Specters and Phantasms . CHAP. VIII , Places Haunted . CHAP. IX . Divellish Impostures . CHAP. X. An admirable and true Process of a Woman that wrought Miracles by the help of the Divel . CHAP. XI . The horrid end of witches and Negromancers . CHAP. XII . The difference between good and bad Spirits , and the true Relation of a good Genius . A Pleasant Treatise of WITCHES , &c. CHAP. I. The manner of the Witches Profession . INcoherent , various , and deceitful will all the Institutions of Satan appear , whether we consider him in his ambiguous Oracles deceiving the Heathen World , in his subtilty to create himself a worship , and followers so obedient , as to sacrifice their of-springs to him ; but more especially , in his seducing some poor miscreants , so far as to contract a bargain with them for their bodies and souls for ever . Such are persons ( St. Chrisost. lib. de provid . ad Stag. Monac . ) perversly instituted in Religion , envious , malicious , and distrusting Gods mercyes , who to satisfie their unreasonable desires , in those things they could not otherwise perform , have hearkened to his flatteries , renounced their Faith , and made themselves his slaves , and subjects . Nevertheless to make his worship become more solemn , and his servants tye the greater , many horrible and detestable ceremonies are perform'd at their first reception ; the summ of all is this . The Wizards and Witches being met in a place and time appointed , where the Devil appears to them in humane shape , admonisheth them to be faithful , & promises them success , and length of life ; they that are present recommend the Novice to him : and the Devil , if the party will renounce the Christian Faith , the Sacraments , and tread upon the Cross , gives him his hand , adding moreover , that this is not alone sufficient , but that he will have an homage also , containing , that he give himself to him body and soul for ever , and bring as many as possibly he may into the same societ●…y : furthermore , that he prepare himself certain Oyntments . This we inquisitors , say the Authors of a Book called Malleus Maleficarum , know being fully informed by a young Witch . Another marryed youth is said to have confessed to Peter Judge in Boltingen after this manner . That the rest of the society , on Sunday before the water was consecrated , brought the new Disciple into the Church , where he denyed his faith & c. and promised homage to his little Master ( for so they call him , Magisterulum , and no otherwise ) then he drinks out of a Bottle presently , which being done he begins to conceive something of his Profession , and is confirmed in the principall Rites of it . Manlius writes concerning their abominable profession , that in the Year 1553. two Witches sto●…e a Child from their neighbour , kild it , cut it in pieces , and put it into a Kittle to boil , when the sorrowful Mother looking for her Infant , came by chance into the house , and found the limbs thereof horribly consumed . For which abominable Fact the Authors of it were burnt , having first in their torture confessed this part of their horrible profession . Two other Witches are reported by Spranger to have kild , the one , forty Children unchristned , the other an infinite number ; and R. P. P. Valdarama the Spaniard relates , that in Germany were taken eight Witches , who confessed to have murthered One hundred forty & five Children in the making their Oyntments . CHAP. II. Of their familiar Imps , and their meetings . THey are likewise reported by the same Author , to have each of them a Spirit or lmp attending on , and assigned to them , which never leave those to whom they are subject , but assist and render them all the service they command . These give the Witches notice to be ready on all Solemn appointments , and meetings , which are ordinarily on Tuesday or Wednesday night , and then they strive to separate themselves from the company of all other Creatures , not to be seen by any : and night being come , they strip themselves naked , and anoint themselves with their Oyntments . Then are they carryed out of the house , either by the Window , Door , or Chimney , mounted on their Imps in form of a Goat , Sheep , or Dragon , till they arrive at their meeting place , whither all the other Wizards and Witches , each one upon his Imps , are also brought . Thus brought to the designed place , which is sometimes many hundred miles from their dwellings , they find a great number of others arrived there by the same means : who , before Lucifer takes his place in his Throne as King , do make their accustomed homage , Adoring , and Proclaiming him their Lord , and rendring him all Honour . This Solemnity being finished , they fit to Table where no delicate meats are wanting to gratifie their Appetites , all dainties being thither brought in the twinckling of an Eye , by those spirits that attend the Assembly . This done at the sound of many pleasant Instruments ( for we must expect no Grace in the company of Devils , ) the table is taken away , and the pleasant consort invites them to a Ball ; but the dance is strange , and wonderful , as well as diabolical , for turning themselves back to back ; they take one another by the arms and raise each other from the ground , then shake their heads to and fro like Anticks , & turn themselves as if they were mad . Then at last , after this Banquet , Musick and Ball , the lights are put out , and their sleeping Venus awaks . The Incubus's in the shaps of proper men satisfy the desires of the Witches , and the Succubus's serve for whores to the Wizards . At last before Aurora brings back the day , each one mounts on his spirit , and so returns to his respective dwelling place , with that lightness and quickness , that in little space they find themselves to be carryed many hundred miles ; but are charged by their spirit in the way , not to call in any wise on the name of God , or to bless themselves with the sign of the Cross , upon pain of falling , with peril of their lives , and being greivously punisht by their Demon. Sometimes at their solemn assemblies , the Devil commands , that each tell what wickedness he hath committed , and according to the hainousness and detestableness of it , he is honoured and respected with a general applause . Those on the contrary , that have done no evil , are beaten and punished : at last when the assembly is ready to break up , and the Devil to dispatch them , he publisheth this law with a loud voice , Revenge your selves or else you shall dye , then each one kissing the Posteriors of the Devil ( a sweet bit no doubt ) returns upon their aiery Vehicles to their habitations . These meetings are made commonly towards midnight , when the earth is covered with darkness ; yet Cardan writes , that a friend of his , a Bookseller , returning from Alemagne , where he had newly been , saw several assemblies met near a mountain , both Wizards and Witches dancing , some on Horseback , some on Goats , others on Dragons , some on other Phantasms , but drawing n●…er within a stones throw , they all vanished and were no longer seen . The places of these Meetings are in some desart , either in a fair plain , or under some large tree , of which Pomp. Mela writes , that on the side of the Mountain Atlas in Mauritania , are seen by night certain lights , and noises are heard of Cimbals , and almost all sorts of Musical Instruments , which in the day time cease , and the Phantasms vanish , and disappear . Solin and Olaus affirm the same , that the Shepherds living neer this place are often frighted by the Troops of Spirits that go dancing and brawling toward this Mountain , esteem'd by the common people to be Aegyptians . Valderama speaks farther concerning these meeting places , which ought in no wise to be omitted , that by t●…e new Castle belonging to the Earle of Francesquin , he saw under a high Chesnut-Tree , hard by a little wood , a circle of the breadth of twenty foot , being made so round , that it seemed to be made by a Geometrical compass , where he imagined these Witches and Spirits to have been ; and what most astonished him , was that upon this round circle grew no flower nor grass , although in the middle and round about abundantly . Suspecting therefore that the earth was consumed by the quality of some ill humour , which hindred the Herbs to grow , he caused it to be dug up and diligently lookt upon , but found the earth of the very same quality and goodness with the rest ad joyning . Paul Grillaud , a most famous Doctor of the Law , reports that a certain Pesant had a wife accustomed to go to such meetings , with her other companions , which her Husband suspecting , often taxed her with it , which still she denyed as obstinately ; till at last resolving to know the truth , he feigned himself , one night , drunk and in a sound sleep , which hapned to be the time she was advised by her Spirit to go to the Assembly . So that looking round about her that all things were sure , her doors fast and her husband to appearance dead drunk , she retired into a private corner of the room , strip't her self naked , and ano●…ted her body : then in an instant as if she had wings , she flew up the Chimney . This her husband perceiving , rose and hid the box of Oyntment , till the next morning ; when examining her where she had been that night , he could neither by fair nor foul means bring her to confess , that she had been out of the house , till ●…hewing her the box of Oyntment , see here , said he , the witness that will so convince thee , that thou shalt be no longer able to deny thy wickedness ; and unless thou resolve to tell me immediately , whither and by what means thou wen●…'st , expect not to go out of my hands alive . Then did he W●… , ●…mbling at her husbands threats , an●… convicted of what she had done , confess the truth , and all the things committed in their impure Society ; above all , she se●… forth the pleasures of it with such cunning fla●…tery , that the lusty young Pesant had a mind presently to be partaker of those delights , and promised her pardon for what she ●…ad done , if she would conduct and bring ●…im also to the place . This she promised willingly , and the time being come , after she had asked leave of her spirit to bring her husband with her , she caused him to strip himself naked as she was , and both being anointed , they mounted , the spirit attending on them in the form of a Sheep , which flying softly through the Air , carryed them to the designed meeting place . The poor man seeing so many men and women so richly cloathed ( as to him they appeared ) such preparations for a Feast , such strange Musick , and so many lighted Torches around him , stood long time amazed . But at last after they were all set at the table by the commandment of the Devil ; the Country man not loosing time , but finding the meat unsavoury and without ●…ast ( for according to the Proverb , the Devils were the Cooks ) he began to ask for Salt , and at last a spirit waiting there in form of a youth , brought him some , which receiveing , he said , God be praised for this good Salt. At which words , in a moment , the Table , Meat , Servants , Guests , Men and Women , Musick , Lights , Spirits , and all vanisht away from ●…im , who found himself next morning naked in the Countrey of Bene●…ent under a great Walnut-Tree , almost a hundred miles from his own home ; whither with must distress at last became , accused his wife and many o●… of the company , who after confession on the Rack , of their profession , were afterwards Burn●… . It is reported by the same Author of another Witch named Lucresse , that being carryed away from her house towards a meeting place , on the Sabbath , when the Bell was ringing to Mattins , the sound of the Saints-Bell did so affright the Devil , that he let her fall in a place thick with Brambles and Thorns , where the next day she was found in pittyful plight , and accused , but what became of her afterwards the Devil knows . CHAP. III. Of Persons Bewitched . ANtonius Sucquetas Knight , o●… great Fame in Flande●…s , had besides three lawful Children , one Bastard who marryed a wife at Brage ; this woman a little after her marriage continually vexed with an evil Spirit , that wheresoever she was , even from among the company of Chast Matrons , she was snatcht away , and was drawn from the table or seat where she was , and thrown into this or that corner ; notwithstanding , all that were present did what they could to hinder it . All this happned without any hurt to her , which many were perswaded was caused by some Witches means , that envied her , or loved her Husband who was very beautiful : to be short , while she was thus tossed too and fro by the evil Spirit , she was at last with Child ; and when her pains began to come upon her , and she had sent the maid who was then alone with her , to fetch the Midwife ; the Witch suspected before to be so , came in and performed that office privately , while the Gentlewoman by reason of her extraordinary pains was in a swoun . Afterwards when she came to her self , she found h●…r self delivered , but the Child could no where be found , which caused great astonishment . But the next morning , she found her child by her in the bed in Swadling-cloaths , which for some time she suckled , till at last it was taken one night from her side and never after heard of . In the year ( saith Langius ) 1539 , in a certain Village called Fugestal , a Country man by name Ulricus Neussesser was cruelly tormented with strange pains in his body ; insomuch that when he despaired of all other remedies he cut his own Throat . About three days after when he was to be buryed , Eucharius Rosen of Uveissemberg and many skilful p●…rsons Anatomised the body , and found in his Ventricle , a rough and hard peice of Wood , four Knives and two peices of Iron , all being about a span long ; there were also seen round bundles of Hair , and things that could never en●…er into a living man , but by the deceit and subtilty of the Devil . To this purpose it is also related of a servant to a Noble man of the Castle of Bontenbrouch , that all the time he was bewitched , he vomi●…ed Nails , Pins , Needles , and Strings ; and being asked concerning it , he said t●…at a certain woman met him one day & breathed upon him , from which time he became thus troubled . But afterwards when the evil Spiri●… left him , he confessed that there had no such thing hapned to him but that the Devil made him say so , and that those he voided as Needles , Pins , and the like , came not from his stomack , but were put into his mouch by the Devil . Wierus in like manner writes of a horrible vexation of certain N●…ns at ●…verketes bewitcht as 't was thought on this manner . A certain old woman had one day restored some Salt to these Nuns of whom she had borrowed , and besides what was due , gave as much more . After which restoration , there was often found about their Chambers a white substance in form of Salt , no body knowing by what means it came thither . Then was there often heard in the night , a voyce groaning and desiring help , but when they came to the place whence it proceeded , thinking it had been one of their companions that implored their aid , they could see nothing . Sometimes they were pulled by the feet out of the bed , otherwhiles so tickled on the souls of their feet , that they w●…re ready to dye with laughing ; some had peieces of their flesh nipt out , and all were tormented in some part or other , vomitting a black and acid humour , so strong that it fetcht the skin off their mouths . One time when their friends were come to see them , they were lifted up from the ground , notwithstanding , all resisted , some fell down as dead , some walked on their hams as if they had no legs , others would run up Tree●… like Cats : and the Abbess her self , while she was talking to the Lady Margaret Countess of Burens is concerning these things , had a peice of flesh pulled out of her Thigh ; the wound was of colour , what we call black and blew in relation to bruised flesh , and was afterwards cured . These outrages of Satan , lasted for three years , but concerning the end I find no mention . One thing only more is remarkable of these Nuns , that if at any time they were hindred from beating and striking each other , they were hugely tormented inwardly : if by the desire of their friends , they went to Pray , their tongues were tyed , nor could they seriously attend to any good thing . But when they talked concerning idle or lascivious sports , they were much refreshed and recreated . It happened in the year 1562. at the town of Levensteat under the Duke of Brunswick , that a certain maid , by name Margaret , the daughter of one Achils , about the age of twenty , was making clean a pair of shoes of her sisters with a knife , whose sheath lay by her with another in it , at which time an old woman came in asking the maid how she did , for she had been sick of a Fever , and hearing her answer went out of the house immediately ; when the maid had done her work , she looked for the other knife and the sheath , but could find neither ; so searching very diligently , she saw at last a great black dog under the Table , which she beat away , hoping to find the knife under him ? but the dog seemed very angry , and grinning with his teeth , leapt over the hatch of the door and ran away . The maid presently began to be giddy , and a chilness seemed to come from her head , all over her body ; In the end she ●…ell in a swoun , and continued , as if she had been dead three dayes ; then she began to come again to her self , and being ask'd the reason of her distemper , answered that she was sure the knife that she had lost was in her left side ; and although her Parents and friends judging her thoughts proceeded from melancholly , hunger , and the like , gave no credence to her words : nevertheless she still persisted in affirming of them , grieving the more to hear every one contradict and think that impossible , of which she was sure . At length after three months , there appeared , on the left side , a little above the Spleen , a swelling , about the bigness of an hens egge , which according to the change of the Moon increased and decreased ; then said shee , hitherto you have contradicted me alwayes , but I hope you will now beleive what you see , and pressing hard upon the swelling , a great quantity of matter gushed out , and th●… knife's end appeared in the Rupture . The maid would ●…ave pulled it out , but her friends hindred her , and sent immediately for the Dukes Chyrurgeon of the Castle of U uolffenbuttle , who first sent a Minister to her to comfort her , and instruct her in God's word , for as much as she had been troubled by the Devil ; and on the next day , which was Sunday , he opened the flesh and took out the knife , which was the very same that was lost , being only consumed a little about the edge . Hector Boethius gives us an admirable Relation concerning King Duffus , that he fell into a great malady , yet not so greiveous , as it was hard to be known by the best Physitians of that time ; for without any signe of Bile , Phlegme , or the redundancy of any evil humour , the King was grievously tormented every night with perpetual watchings and continual sweatings , and found but very little ease in the day-time ? his body wasted away by degrees , his skin grew hard and close , shewing to the beholders both the Veins , Nerves , and situation of the very bones . Nevertheless by the regular motion of his pulse , it was manifest that nothing of his radical moisture was wasted , and the colour of his lip , cheeks and ears , still remained vigorous and temperate , and his appetite was no way abated . These good signs in a languishing body , and one that was afflicted with much pain , the Physitians much admired ; and when by all their Art they could neither cause him to sleep , nor make his sweating cease , but that the King grew worse and worse to both , they desired him to be of comfort , for it might be that some Physitians of other Nations knew the nature of his disease , and could cure it , whom they would send for , by which means he might recover his health . But by this time there grew a strange rumour amongst the common people that the King was bewitched , and that his disease proceeded not from any natural cause , but by the Magick Art of certain women living at Forres a City of Moravia , who used those means to the destruction of the King. This report soon came to the Kings ear , and least the Witches , hearing they were discovered , should make their escape , there were men sent secretly to Moravia to enquire concerning this matter : the messengers dissembled the cause of their coming , and under pretence of a League they were to make between King Duffus and those of Moravia , they came to the City Forres , and were by night let into the Castle ( for that stood as yet for the King ) here they told the Governour Donevaldus , what the King had commanded them to search , and desired his aid and assistance in this matter . Now a certain young whore ( whose mother was a Witch ) one of her Lovers a Souldier , had learned by what means her mother wrought her Inchantments , and had learnt something concerning the Kings Life and Fortune ; this he told Donevaldus , and Donevaldus related it to the Kings Ambassadors , and sent for the woman , who was then in the Castle , whom he constrained to tell the whole matter , and the manner of her mothers proceedings , and Souldiers were sent at night secretly to search the business more narrowly . The Messengers came to the witches house , broke it open , and found one of them turning , on a spit by the fire , a waxen Image , made by their Art like to King Duffus : another was reciting certain Spels , and pouring leisurely a certain liquor upon the Image . They took them both , and brought them to the Castle , with the Image and the liquor , where being examined the cause of these deeds , they confessed , that while the Image was roasting , the King never ceased to sweat , and while they recited their Charms , he never slept , and that as the wax melted away , so the King consumed , and would dye after all was spent , as the Devil had informed them ; moreover , that they were hired , to do this , by those of Moravia . These things so incensed the hearers , that they caused them both immediately to be burnt , with the Image ; at which very time , ( as afterwards it was known ) while this passed at Forres , the King was eased of his pain , and rested that night without swearing , and the next day his former strength returning , he grew better , and lived long after in as perfect health as ever he had been before this calamity happened unto him . Gulielmus Malmesburiensis Monachus , writes in his History , that there were in the time of Peter Damion , two old women living in the way that leads to Rome , that kept an Inn , and that as oft as they had any single passenger , they turn'd him into an Ass or Hog , and sold him to the Merchants ; at last having for their Guest a young man , that by Fidling and Jugling got his livelihood , they turn'd him into an Ass , who by the strangeness of his Actions ( for his understanding was nothing altered ) drew many passengers to the house , and by this means they gained great Custome , and no small advantage ; at last a neighbour of theirs proffered great summs of money for him , and at length purchased him , but with this caution , that he was never to ride him into the Water , which for some time was punctually observed : but the Ass getting one day at liberty , ran into the next Pool of water , where after he had cooled himself a little , he came to his former shape . The like is reported by the Inquisiter Spranger , of a Souldier in the Isle of Cyprus , who was also turned into an Ass , yet his reason remained , and he followed his old companions to their Ship ; but supposed to be a real Ass was beaten away , and forced to return to the Witche , house that had so transform'd him . In this shape he serv'd her three years , till passing one day before a Church , he was seen to kneel on his hinder legs , and to lift up them before , at the holding up of the Sacrament of the Altar ; which action some Geneva Merchants perceiveing . apprehended the owner , and with torture made her confess how she had inchanted him , and converted him into that form , and to render him the likeness of man again . The Witch was burnt at Famagoste , and the youth returned to England , affirming that his mind was never so much troubled , but that he knew himself to be a man ; nevertheless his imagination was so deceived by the Devil , that he sometimes thought himself to be a Beast , and yet had alway this contentment , that he was known by the other Magicians and Witches to be a true man. CHAP. IV. Of Magicians and Negromancers . COrnelius Agrippa the great Magician , going one day out of Town from Louain where he dwelt , left the Keyes of his Study with his wife , charging her strictly to let no body go in ; but it hapned so that day , that a young companion of Agrippa , a Schollar , and having ever had a curiosity to see some of this Negromancers books , came to the house , and with much importunity gained the keyes ; then entring the room and viewing the books , he perceived a Manuscript of Agrippa's amongst the rest , as it were a compendium of them : this he reads , and in short space raises an ill . favour'd Devil ; who entring the study , asked what he would have that he call'd him so ; the young man unexperienced , frightned , and ignorant what to say , was choaked by the Spirit and left dead on the ground . Agrippa not long after returns home , and finds the Devil dancing , and shewing tricks upon the house top ; at which , astonished , he goes into his Study , and finds the dead body , which he commands his spirit to enter , and carry to the place where the Students used to meet ; this being done and the spirit quitting the body , it fell down and was buryed for dead , having some marks only of strangulation about the Throat . But not long after the matter was discovered , and Agrippa for safty fled to Lorrain . There was in the Emperor Maximilians Court , a famous Negromancer ( as Authors affirm ) who at his command , and promise of pardon and reward , took upon him to shew the shapes of the three great Warriers , Hector , Achilles , and King David , upon condition of silence when they appeared : and the Emperor he places in the midst of his Magick Circle , seats him in his Throne , and afterwards reading and murmuring certain Charms out of his Pocket-Book , he desires silence . Hector then knocks at the door so vehemently , that the whole house shook , and the door being opened , he came in , with a bright Speer in his hand , his Eye fiery , and his Stature exceeding other mens . Not long after in the same Majestical postture , came in Achilles , looking fiercely towards Hector , and often shaking his Speer , as though he would have invaded him . Thus having thrice passed by the Emperor , and made Obeysance , they vanished . Afterwards came in King David in his Crown and Princely Robes , with his Harp in his hand . His countenance was more gracious then that of the other two ; and he passed likewise thrice by the Emperor , but wi●…hout Reverence to him , and went away . The Magician being asked by the Emperor , why King David denyed him the respect the other two gave , answered , that all things were subject to his Kingdom , for asmuch as Christ sprang from him . Saint Augustine writes of Pythagoras , that ( whether by natural Magick or some secret agreement with the Devil , it is doubted by Authors ) he kept a Bear of prodigious greatness with him many years , and at last making him swear never to hurt any Beast , gave him liberty , and sent him into the Woods . The same Magician being near Tarent , and seeing an Ox eating in a field of Beans , called to the herdsman to drive the beast from eating the Beans . But the surly clown made answer , he might chastise him himself if he would , as he used to whip his Boys . Whereupon Pythagor as making certain magick Characters on the ground , and muttering some Charms to himself , caused the beast to come out of the Beans , as if it had been endued with reason ; and ever after it refused the Yoke , and retired to Tarent , living among the inhabitants , and taking her food from the hands of Men , Women , and Children . A certain Magician at Madeburg , was us'd to shew a little Horse to the people in the Market place for money , commanding it to do many rare things which always it performed . But complaining one day to the people in the end of his shew , that he had got very little , that the times were very hard , and the like , he wisht that he were in heaven : then throwing up the bridle into the air , the horse followed it ; and he , as if he would have stayed it by the tail , was carryed up also : his wife catched hold of him , his maid of her , and all fly up into the air like so many links of a chain . Now while the people were looking and wondring at it , a certain Citizen came to the multitude , and understanding the matter , affirmed that he met but a little before , the Magician going to his Inn. To this purpose Niderius also reports , that in the year 1045 , a certain Magician , in England , was seen to mount on a black horse on a Sabbath day , and to be carryed away through the air . Henry the third King of France , had a brother called the Duke of Allenzon , who came to England formerly to be a suiter to Queen Elizabeth , in whose retinue was the Valiant Busidamboyes who took the Dukes part , between whom and the King was a perpetual sued The King , therefore by nature timerous and suspicious , was always afraid of this valiant person , and after his return into France , devised several means to take him out of the way . Amongst the rest coming by night out of the Louure , he was set upon by seventeen armed and appointed men , ye●… behaved himself so stoutly , that he killed five of them , and made his escape . The King seeing he had mist of him , and that ever after he stood upon his Guard , put in tryal another way . For there being a constant report at Court that Bussidamboyes was in favour with the Earl of Monsurrous wife , he sent for an Italian Negromancer , famous at that time , and called ●…riscalino . Of him he enquires if he could shew or declare to him , what Bussidamboyes was then doing , which the Magician after certain conjurations shewed him in a Glass , where was Bussidamboyes in bed with a Lady . Hereupon the King sent for his Courtiers , amongst whom was the Earl of Monsorrou at that time , and a●…ked if they knew that Lady . The Earl much abased , replyed , it was his wife . Then said the King , I will have no Culckolds to be my Courtiers . To which the Earl made answer , that to hinder what was done was not in his power , but that it was in the Kings , to give him leave to avenge himself , which he earnestly requested . The King glad to be any ways rid of Bussidamboyes , gave his assent , and the Earl posted away immediately to his own house ; and coming betimes in the morning to his wife , as she lay in bed , offered her the choice of three things , either a draught of Poyson , a Dagger to kill her self , or to write such a Letter as he would dictate to her . The miserable woman terrified with the thoughts of death , consented to the Latter ; and , according to her husbands dictating , sent for Bussidamboyes , who suspected nothing , to come unto her . In the mean time the Earl concealed himself in the house , armed with six more , and behind the Curtains in her chamber . Bussidamboyes came not long after , and offering to go up stairs in his accustomed manner , was desired by a Page , set for that purpose , to leave his Spurs and his Sword below , because his Lady was ill , and the least noise disturbed her . This he did , not mistrusting what would follow ; but as soon he entred the Chamber , the Lady gave a sign , and all rusht in upon him . Nevertheless , being of an undaunted courage , he took the first chair he found , and so behaved himself with that weapon , by reason of his great strength , that he kild two of them ; and then being wounded in divers places , he leapt out of the window into the Garden . But fell by misfortune upon a pole that prop't up a Vine , and there stuck fast by the Breeches , which the Conspirators perceiving , ran down and made an end of him there . The Negromancer according to the Kings promise , had his pardon , and being asked , by the King , how many Witches he thought were in his Dominions , answered above a hundred thousand which he knew , and of whom he was Master . Mr. Baudovain de Ronssey , in his Epistles , gives us this Relation ; that in Ostbrook neer Utrect a place in Holland , dwelt a certain Negromancer , whose servant observing that his Master went constantly on certain nights into the Stable , and laid hold on the Rack , resolved to do the same unknown to his Master , and see what would be the event . Thus following his Master who was gone half an hour before into the stable , and returned no more ; he laid hold on that part of the Rack , and was posted immediately , he knew not how , through the aire , till at last he found himself , in a large Cave , amongst an Assembly of Witches . His Master astonished and angry at his coming , fearing also least by this means , their nocturnal meetings might be discovered , asked the counsel of the rest concerning him ; 't was agreed upon at last to receive him , and make him swear secrecy . This the poor fellow out of fear did , and promised whatsoever else they desired : at last , when the time of departure came , they resolved he-should be carryed back , because he had sworn to be of the Society , and to that end his Master took him upon his back ; but in their way through the air , as they came over a Lake , his Master fearing to be discovered by him , and finding this opportunity , let him fall , hoping therein to have drowned him and stifled him in the mudd ; yet Providence permitted not the youth to be drowned , or his fall to be deadly , for the abundance of Rushes and Sedge , saved its violence , and there he lay with no great harm done to his body . The next day , as he cry'd for help , he was heard by some Travellers , and by his voice found , and holpen out ; the occasion of his coming thither being examined , he was conducted to the Burgomaster of Utrect , named Iohn of Cullenburg , who making farther inquiry into this extraordinary accident , with intention to prosecute the Negromancer , sent for him to the place of his habitation ; but whether advised by his Spirit , or warned by the Report , he was fled and could no where be heard of . Iohn Theuteme , Canon D' Albestan , being oftimes reproached to be a Bastard , and that he merited not to be a Canon , which belonged only to those of better Extract , invited his revilers one day to Dinner , and after the Table was taken away , asked them if they would see their Fathers ; to which they answered they all were willing : then caused he his Familiar Spirits to appear in their likenesses , one like a Cook , another like a Groom , a third like a Pesant , but his own Father came in the form of a Canon , cloathed in a long gown , at which sight the company was much amazed , and never after reproached him of his Extract , since their own was no more honourable . CHAP. V. Of Incubus and Succubus's FLegon Trallian made free from slavery , by the Emperor Adrian , writes , in his Book of admirable things , that Philinion Daughter to a Vintener , fell in Love with Machates a young Forrester , but crost by her friends , took it so to heart that she dyed suddenly after , and was buryed publickly . Not long after this sad Funeral , Machates passing by , came and lay at the house , to whom Philinion appeared , being alone in his chamber , asserting she was not dead , but had raised that report to deceive her friends ; insomuch that they both lay that night together , and he gave her towards morning at her departure his Ring in token of his love , and in recompence she gave him another : while these things thus passed , a servant that lay in the next Chamber , hearing Philinions voice , supposed really that her Masters daughter was alive , which she constantly affirmed for truth : her Master desirous to know the certainty of it , found means to get the young man to stay longer at his House , and caused persons to watch every night in the next chamber ; at last , hearing her voice , they went into the chamber , and ran towards the bed , where she lay , to embrace their daughter : but the Spirit said , O cruel Father and Mother , since you hindred me to enjoy this youth in life , you can expect no kindess from me , and lo now I leave you . At which words the spirit went out of her , and her carcass fell down in the bed . Her tomb was immediately after opened , but nothing found there , save the ring the Forrester gave her , which the spirit had left . Her body was seen , as likewise the tomb , by thousands of people that came to see the truth of this admirable accident . And at last by the councel of the Divine Hillo , the dead body was carryed out of Town and buryed . But Machates by this accident was so frightned , that he fell shortly after into despair , and killed himself . Another no less admirable History , we find of an Incubus , who , in the shape of Policrates , was created Prince of the Aetolians , and was marryed to a young Lady of Locres , with whom after he had lain three nights , he vanished , and was no more seen by the people . The Lady brought forth for her Child , a monstrous Hermophrodite ; at which her Parents being astonished , assembled the people , the Priests , and Diviners , to consult what should be done with the Child , or rather Divelish off-spring , and at last it was concluded it should be burnt . But then Policrates the Father appeared again , in a mourning garment , and , with threats , demanded his Son , which being denyed , he rushed upon him , and toar him to pieces , and then devoured all his members , excepting the head , and vanisht . The people resolved to send to the Oracle at Delphos , to enquire concerning this matter , but the head that was left on the ground , began to speak , and with a loud voice and eloquent Oration , informed the multitude of all the evil that 's threatned them , which came to pass the Year after in the War they had with the people of Acarnania . Boethius the Historian writes lib. hist. Scot. That a young maid , very beautiful , and one that had refused the marriage of many Noble Persons , fell into strange familiarity with a Devil . Till at last her big swelling belly declared what she had done , and forced her to disclose the matter to her Parents ; how a handsome young man , came constantly by night and lay with her , but from whence , or whither he went , she knew not . Her friends though they gave little credence to these words , yet resolved to search into the matter more narrowly ; and about three days after , being informed by her maid that the man was with her , they unlockt the door , and entered the Chamber with a great company of lights , and saw by their Daughter a most horrid Monster , more terrible in shape , then what can be described believed ▪ The beholders of this strange Spectacle , all run away , save an holy Priest that staid , & began to read St. Johns Gospel ; and when he came to this passage , The Word was made Flesh , the evil Spirit with a horrid noise , flew away with the window of the chamber . And the woman at the fright , was delivered of a horrid Monster , which the Midwives , least it might be a reproach to the Family , burnt upon a pile of wood immediately . In the year 1480. as the same Author affirms , a Merchants Ship was going to Flanders to Traffique , when on a sudden , there arose so vehement a Storm that the Mast was broke , and great damage done to the rest of the Tackling ; insomuch that nothing could be expected but present destruction . The Master wondring at this unclemency of the Air , ( for it was then about the Summer Solstice ) when he could attribute it to no natural cause , concluded it was rather by some evil spirit . Which as he related to the Passengers , comforting them , forasmuch as he trusted God would not suffer them to perish by those means of the Devil , a pittiful voyce was heard from the bottom of the Ship , of one of the passengers , a woman , accusing her self , that for many years she had had familiarity with a Devil in mans shape , and that he was then with her , and that she deserved to be thrown into the Sea to save the rest from the imminent danger . The Minister therefore , was sent down to this distressed creature , who pray'd by her , and after her confession , earnestly entreated her to repent , and ask of God forgiveness for what she had done . This the poor distressed woman no so●…ner began to do , but a black and thick mist , seemed to rise up out of the pump of the Ship , and with a great noise , flame , smoak and stink , threw it self into the Sea ; after which the Tempest ceased , and the Ship got safe to harbour . Vincentius writes that a certain strong young man well skilled in Swimming , was bathing himself by Moon-shine in the Sea , and that a woman swimming after him , took him by the hair , as if it were one of his companions that would have ducked him : to whom he spoke , but no answer was made ; nevertheless , she followed him to shoar , and the youth taken by the great excellence of her beauty , covered her with some of his garments , and brought her to his home , and not long after , marryed her . But being jeered often by his companions , that he had marryed a Phantasm , forasmuch as she would never speak , he drew his Sword one day , and threatned he would kill the Child she bore , if she would not speak , and tell her Original . Alas poor man , said she , that loosest a good wife by forcing me to speak . I had remained long with thee , and done thee much good , had I not broken the silence enjoyned me , and therefore henceforth thou shalt see me no more , and then she vanished . But the child grew , and began to use himself much to swim , till at last as he swimmed one day in the Sea , many people admiring him , he was taken way out of their sight by his Mother . Hieronymus reports the like of a Monk , invited to uncleaness by a Succubus in the shape of a very fair and beautiful woman ; but when went to embrace her , she sent forth a great cry , & as she was nothing in reality , but a meer shade and Phantasm , vanished out of his arms , deceiving and deriding the foolish Monk that had , by his Lust , rendred himself like the horse and bruit beasts , without understanding . CHAP. VI. Of Familiar Spirits , Goblings , and Pharies . GIlbert writes in the eight Book of his Narrations , that a young Gentleman of Lo●…rain , of a good Family , but corrupted by ill company , frequenting often Ordinaries , and such like houses of Debauchery , was one day walking in the fields melancholy by himself , for want of money . To whom a Spirit appearing in mans shape , asked the reason of his solitariness , profering to do him service in whatever troubled him , providing he would stedfastly believe all that was in a little Book he would give him , and swear never to open or shew it to any body . This when the young man had promised , the other produced a little Book in his left hand , and shaked 60. Crowns out of it into his right , bidding the young man do the like , who produced the same effect . But at last when he wanted for nothing , being overcome with curiosity , he resolved to see what was contained in it ; and opening it , he saw in the midst a round Circle , divided with certain lines in form of a Cross , on which was painted a horrible face of a Devil . At this sight the young man was so frighted , that his Eyes became black , and his Brains turned , that he thought to have some heavy load on his shoulders . He was forced therefore to confess the matter to his friends , who perswaded him to through the Book into the fire , which although there was nothing in it but Paper , yet remained an hour in the fire before it consumed . A certain Souldier travelling through Marchia a country of Almaigne , and finding himself weary in his journey , abode in an Inn till he might recover his strength , and committed to his Hostesses custody , certain money which he had about him . Not long after , when he was to depart , he required his money , but the woman having consulted with her Husband , denyed the Receit , and return thereof , accusing him also of wrong in demanding that which she never received : the Souldier on the other side fretting amain , accused her of cousenage ; which stir when the man of the house heard ( though privy to all before ) yet dissemblingly took his Wives part , and thrust the souldier out of doors : who being throughly chafed with that indignity , drew his Sword , and ran at the door with the point of it : whereat the Host cried , Theeves , Theeves , saying that he would have entered his House by force , so that the poor Souldier was taken and put in Prison , and by process of Law , to be condemned to death : but the very day wherein this hard Sentence was to be pronounc●…d and executed , the Devil entred into the prison , and told the Souldier he was condemned to dye ; nevertheless if he would give himself body and soul to him , he would promise to deliver him out of their hands : the prisoner answering , said that he had rather dye being innocent , then be delivered on such conditions : Again , the Devil propounded to him the great danger his life was in , and also used all cunning means possible to perswade him . But the other resolutely withstood his temptation , that at last he promised to revenge him of his enemies for nothing ; advising him moreover to plead not guilty , to declare his innocency and their wrong , and to entreat the Judge to grant him one that stood by in a blew Cap , to be his Advocate : the Souldier accepted this offer , and being called to the Bar , and indicted there of Fellony , presently desired to have his Attorney , who was there present , to plead for him : then began the fine and crafty Doctor to plead , and defend his Client very cunningly ; affirming him to be falsly accused , and unjustly condemned , and that his Host did withhold his money , and offered him violence : and to prove the Assertion , he reckoned up every circumstance in the Action , yea , the very place where they had hid the money . The Host on the other side stood in denial very impudently , wishing the Devil might take him if he had it : at these words ( for the subtil Lawyer waited for this advantage ) the Devil laid hold on the Host , and carrying him out of the Sessions house , hoisted him into the air so high , that he was never after seen or heard of . A Gentleman neer the City of Torga , who got his living by ro●…bing and ranging the fields , met one day with a Spirit in form of a horseman , who saluted him , and profered him his service : the other accepting of it , made him his Groom , and ever when he went out , gave him special charge of a certain horse which he esteemed very much of ; the Devil finding he could never please his Master , concerning this matter , and that , notwithstanding , all his double diligence , his Master never thought him well enough look't after , took the horse one day when ●…is master was abroad , and carryed him to the top of a high Tower , & put his head out of the window . The horse seeing his Master , come home , began to neigh and stomp , as though joyful of his return , but the servant never came again to fetch him down , and left all the neighbourhood in great admiration . Froissard reports that a certain Priest going to Law with a Parishioner , was cast by him ; and , that resolving not to stop there ( for he had skill in Magick ) he raised a Spirit , whom he sent to torment him , upon promise of such a reward . The spirit posts immediately to the Gentlemans house , and there by his noise and the pranks he play'd , soon manifested what he was . The gentleman upon this strange vexation , got his neighbours , good Religious men , to watch with him , and when at midnight the spirit came , it was resolved he should speak to it . The Devil according to his agreement with the Priest , never mist his hour , but came as he used to do that night , throwing the chairs and stooles up and down the house , making a noise and great disturbance . Whereupon the gentleman boldly asked in Gods Name , what he was . Ah quoth the Devil , and laught , do you not yet know that I am a spirit ? yes said the Gentleman again , but who sent thee hither ? the Priest , said the Spirit , because thou overthrewst him at Law , and hath promised me also ten Crowns for my pains . Away said the Gentleman for shame , art thou so bare as to serve such a pittyful Rascal for so little money ? I will give thee forty Crowns to serve me , and all thy business shall be , only to bring me News from all parts of the World. I 'le do 't , said the Devil , but if ever you desire to see me , you shall certainly lose me . Thus did this Gentleman know , before any Post could come , of all the Transactions in the World , and had news from the remotest parts of it : insomuch , that he began to be sought after by every one for News , since nothing in the whole world was done , of which he had not intelligence . But at last perceiving this familiarity would bring him into the trouble and strict inquiry of the Law ; and fearing least the Spirit might shew him some slippery trick for his forty Crowns , he resolved to put him away . And thereupon , the next time he came , Artan , said he , ( for so the spirit called himself ) since thou hast been so punctual hitherto in thy service , I would now ●…ain see thee in some shape or other . You shall , replyed he , and the first thing you see upon the floor of your Chamber to morrow morning , shall be me . The morning being come , the Gentleman lookt on his floor , but could see no body . Wherefore when he heard the spirit next , did you not promise , said he , to appea●… to me in some shape this morning in my chamber ? well , and did you not see , reply'd the Devil , two Straws tumbling over each other , that was I. But I minded them not , said the Gentleman , and have not as yet seen thee as I desire . Mind better then answered he , and the first creature you see to morrow out of your window , shall be me . So the next morning , when the Gentleman rose to the window , he could see nothing in his yard , but a great , leaner and uglier Sow , then can be described , insomuch that calling to his servants , he commanded them to hunt that ugly creature out of the yard , which as they were doing , it vanished in a tempest , and the house was troubled no more . Olaus relates , that a Gentleman passing by a Forrest with his servants , was belated in the way , and forced to stay in the Woods all night , having nothing to eat ; at which he said merrily to his Retinue , would Sir Hubert of whom so many stories pass , would provide us some food in this solitary Wood. Which words , he had no sooner spoken , but a great Wolfe rushed by them , and returned immediately with Sheep on his back , which he let fall in their sight , and vanisht ; leaving them to dress the meat the Devil had sent them . Alexander ab Alexandro , writes , that a Monk of the Monastery of Ardens , going early in the morning through the Forrest to a Town thereby , overtook a man of a stern countenance , loose kind of vesture , and very tale stature , with whom he travelled , till at last they came ●…o a great wash ; where the man profered the Monk , being a Religious person , and of lesser stature , to carry him over on his back . The Monk gl●…d of this profer , got up ; but casting his Eyes down toward the water that was very clear , and seeing his Porters feet , of a strange and deformed shape , he blessed himself with the sign of the Cross ; at which the Devil hasted so fast away in a whirlwind , that it toar up a great Oak by the roots ; which gave the poor Monk cause to think that if he had not in time perceived the Devil to be his Porter , he should have been stifled in the waters by him . Fincelius reports , that in the year 1532. a certain Gentleman to torment a poor Tenant that owed him rent , commanded him with threats , to bring to his house that night for fuel ( it being the Christmas tide ) a certain great Oak out of such a wood , which if he failed to do , he would turn him out of his House . The poor man , although the thing was impossible , nevertheless , to shew his willingness , went with his Ax towards the Wood , much afflicted at the hard commands of his Lord. Thus as he is going , he is overtaken by a tall man , that having asked his grief , profers him his help in the matter ; the poor man over-joyed with his courtesie , questioned not the means , but went with him to the Oak , and was now preparing himself for the work , by pulling off his Doublet and Breeches . But the other contrary to his expectation , takes the vast Oak in his arms , and pulls it up by the root , and laying it on his shoulder ( for 't was as easy to be carryed , as pul'd up ) he brought and threw it down into the Gentlemans yard ; where afterwards it became so hard , that it could never be hewn in pieces with Axes , nor burnt with fire , but remained a lasting monument in that place . I judge there is none so ignorant of the Manners and Fashions of his Neighbouring countryes , but knowes they are far different , and in some manner how they differ . I shall leave it therefore to the judicious Reader to suppose in his fancy , a Countrey man of France , in his wooden shoes , leather doublet , and high crown'd hat , his Syth on his shoulder , bag and bottle at his waste : which things , though in England , have nothing admirable , yet in Persia , Mosco●…y , and the like Forreign Nations , the whole habit will seem most strange and wonderful . Such a poor Countrey fellow going to a peice of ground two or three miles distant from his own habitation , to mow , is overtaken by a man on horseback , whom taking for no other than some countrey man , he fell into discourse with him concerning his journey , so that at last being both to go the same way , the other profered him the use of his horse , to ride behind him , which the honest Mower willingly accepted of ; but being well seated , and thinking now to have proceeded in his journey , he is carryed through the air with such swiftness , that the astonishment gave him no time to speak , and fear made him hold fast to the other . Thus passed they over many towns and countreys , till at last coming over the market-place in Turky , good God , said he , what people are these , and whither am I going ? the spirit confounded at the holy name , let him fall in the midst of the multitude , but by reason of the great store of Tents , and clothes that kept the commodities from the scorching heat of the Sun , the vehemency of his fall was abated , and in short space he came again to his sences . By this time an infinite number of Turks were assembled in a ring around him , but a great distance , for some supposed him he was a god dropt from Heaven ; others that Saturn the Heathen Deity of Time with his Syth on his shoulder , was come to hide himself again on earth ; others interpreted it that time was ceasing to be , and that the world was now at an end : in brief , all were amazed , as you may imagine , as well at each particular part of his habit , which was wonderful , as the strangeness of his coming being no less admirable . Yet still their astonishment increased , to hear him speak in a strange dialect , but he thinking they could not hear him , approaches towards them ; on the other side fear still makes them to recede . By this time news of this rare accident came to the Grand Seignior , and Interpreters were sent , to know the matter perfectly ; which being done , he was sent back to France by the Ambassadors means , then residing in Turky , that the King and all the world might be certified of what had happened . Siarra a Spaniard , left in his Manuscript what is wonderful to relate , concerning Spirits in America , that when the Spaniards began their Conquests in that place , certain of them chased a great Liou , with their guns and swords ; and when they thought they had shot him , and that he fell down dead , and were going to cut off his Head , he vanish'd in a strong wind that beat them all back ▪ some yards , but without great damage . Another Spaniard being alone , thought he met with a foul Black Moor , and discharged at him , but the Moor came running upon him with fingers open like to the laws of a Cat , which caused him to trust no longer to his weapon , but to call on God for help , at whose name the foul fiend vanish'd . Six other Spaniards seising upon a young Moor , near to a Mountain , that seemed to cry , and be almost starved , threatned him , to see if he would confess of any thing that was left by the enemy and hid ; whereupon he brought them to a concavity in the Mountain , and bid them follow him and he would shew them great Treasures , two of the company were so bold , but before they were gone far in , the rest heard a pittiful noise , and none were so fool-hardy as to venture after them ; from which time the place is called to this day the Devils Den. The next delusion the Devil put upon them , was about a fortnight after , but despairing of his former practises , he now assumed the shape of a Spaniard , exhorting some fifty more to follow him , and he would go to the top of an Hill and spy the enemy ; where as soon as they were come he vanished in a strong wind and smoak , dispersing and throwing them all down the Hill , to the loss of seven , and much hurt to the rest : This , saith the Author , was evident in the sight of part of our Army , and forced beleif from those that before gave no credit to what particular persons often related . Yet what is more admirable , is this , that as Siarra and his comrade were one day travelling together , a little Blackamoor of exquisite shape , addressed himself to his companion , desiring he would take him to wait upon him ; this he spoke with such a grace , beyond what could be expected from any Moor , that by Siarra's perswasions , the other took him for his servant . Now whatever his Master set him about , he did it with most admirable speed and diligence , insomuch that haveing left a knife one day four or five miles off , where the Army last encamped , he would send the boy for it , to whom Siarra said , this is indeed a task for the Devil himself ( at which words he remembred afterwards the boy to be very attentive , and his eyes to sparkle ) and it were as good to seek a needle in a field of Hey ; therefore trouble not your boy about it ; nevertheless the boye 's forwardness incited his Master to send him for it , and as though he had wings he went presently out of their sight , returning again in short space with the knife : at which so speedy arrival , his Master expected he should have been breathless , but he skipped and jumped as it were for joy that he had pleasured his Master . Another time about five hundred Moors rising out of an ambush , set upon a party of fifty Spaniards whereof Siarra and his companion were two , yet for all their number , contrary to the Spaniards expectations , the Moors ran away , terrified at something , whereof the Spaniards were wholly ignorant , who dared not to follow least they should bring themselves into some unknown treachery . Many such like services did the young Blackmoor to Siarra and his companion , the last was as followeth . As these two with four more were travelling up a certain Mountain , to view the subjacent places , they perceived a man of prodigious stature , walking up and down very melancholy , who often cast such terrible looks upon them , that as well by a certain fear caused by the extenuation of the air , when Spirits are near , as by a conception they had that he was so , they were much astonished and afraid ; whereupon the young Blackmoor that served Siarra's companion , ran towards him , and kneeled down , and as it were entreated him , whereupon he immediately flew up into the air out of their sight . This caused greater astonishment , then what ever had hapned before , and therefore his Master never left examining his boy what he was , till at last , he confessed after this manner . I am , though otherwise I have appeared to you in form of a boy , a Spirit of this Region , subject to the great Master Agnan , whom you just now saw ascend into the air , after he seemed to bewail the loss of his people , and his Worship which the Spaniards have destroyed ; he was certainly come to do you mischief , as formerly he had done to some of your company , but my intreaties disswaded him , having told upon what account I served you ; nor shall any of his ministers torment you as long as you stay in this place , as you may beleive by what is already past : For when the Five hundred set upon you , I caused above a Thousand Spaniards to appear before their sight , which was the cause of their suddain flight . Now the reason why I serve you ( for according to the charge laid upon me ; I was to declare it , before I left you ) is , because you spared formerly a Moor whom you took with your own hand in flight , a tall person , with a Hawks nose ; the same was a Priest to our great Master , and had a Spirit granted him , to attend on him ; by his charge I was sent to protect you , as long as you stay in this Countrey , for the favour you shewed him in sparing his life . Having thus said , he ran a little from them , and beating the ground thrice with his foot , he was carryed into the Air out of their sight . Not long after , as they returned to Spain , a great storm arose , during which , it was so dark that none of the Heavenly light appeared , and all hopes of safety were taken away , till at last Siarra perceived as he thought , the young Moor in the Shrouds , after which that dismal Storm ceased , and their Voyage became Calme and pleasant . Pharies . OF Pharies also those little Mimick Elves , that appear alwayes very small of stature , and busy themselves chiefly in imitating the operations of men ; we read in Georgius Agricola that great searcher of Subterraneal mines , that they appear frequently in those places whence precious Metals are dug , and from their manners are called Cobali , or Imitators of men ; these seem to laugh , to be cloathed like the workmen , to dig the earth , and to do many things , that really they do not ; mocking sometimes the workmen , but seldome or never hurting them . The Latins have called them Lares and Larvae , frequenting , as they say , Houses , delighting in neatness , pinching the Slut , and rewarding the good housewife with money in her shoe . Siarra hath left us this notable Relation , that there lived in his time in Spain , a table and beautiful Virgin , but far more famous for her excellence at her Needle ; insomuch that happy did that Courtier think himself , that could wear the smalest piece of her work , though at a price almost invaluable . It hapned one day , as this admirable Semstress sate working in her Garden , that casting aside her Eye on some fair Flower or Tree , she saw , as she thought , a little Gentleman , yet one that shew'd great Nobility by his cloathing , come riding towards her from behind a bed of Flowers ; thus surprised how any body should come into her Garden , but much more , at the stature of the person , who as he was on Horseback exceeded not a foots length in height ; she had reason to suspect that her eyes deceived her . But the Gallant spurring his Horse up the Garden , made it not long , though his Horse was little , before he came to her : then greeting the Lady in most decent manner , after some Complements past , he acquaints her with the cause of his bold Arival ; that forasmuch as he was a Prince amongst the Pharies , and did intend to celebrate his Marriage on such a day , he desired she would work him Points for him and his Princess against the time he appointed . The Lady consented to his demands , and he took his leave , but whether the multitude of business caused the Lady to forget her promise , or the strangeness of the thing made her neglect the work , thinking her sight to have been deceived , I know not ; yet so it fell out , that when the appointed time came , the work was not ready . The hour wherein she had promised the Phary Prince some fruits of her Needle , hapned to be one day as she was at dinner with many Noble persons , having quite forgot her promise , when on a suddain casting her eye to the door , she saw an infinite train of Pharies come in : so that fixing her eyes on them , and remembring how she neglected her promise , she sate as one amazed , and astonished the whole company . But at last the train had mounted upon the Table , and as they were prancing on their Horses round the brims of a large dish of white-broth , an Officer that seemed too busy in making way before them , fell into the dish , which caused the Lady to burst into a suddain fit of laughter , and thereby to recover her sences . When the whole Phary company was come upon the Table , that the brims of every dish seemed fill'd with little Horsemen , she saw the Prince coming towards her , hearing she had not done what she promised , seemed to go away displeased . The Lady presently fell into a fit of Melancholly , and being asked by her friends the cause of these alterations and astonishments , related the whole matter ; but notwithstanding all their consolations , pined away , and dyed not long after . 'T is reported likewise of a countrey girl , being sent out dayly by her Mother , to look to a Sow that was then big with pigs , that the Sow alwayes stray'd out of the girls sight , and yet alwayes came safe home at night ; this the maid often observing , resolved to watch her more narrowly , and followed her one day so close , till they both came to a fair green Valley , where was layd a large bason full of milk and white bread ; the Sow having eaten her Mess , returned home , and that night pigg'd eleven pigs , the good wife rising early the next morning to look to her beast , found on the threshold of the stye ten half Crowns , and , entring in , saw but one pig , judging by these things that the Pharies had fed her fow and bought her pigs . A certain woman having put out her child to Nurse in the Countrey , found when she came to take it home , that its form was so much altered , that she scarce knew it ; nevertheless not knowing what time might do , took it home for her own . But when after some years it could neither speak nor go , the poor woman was feign to carry it with much trouble in her arms ; and one day a poor man coming to the door , God bless you Mistress said he and your poor child , be pleased to bestow something on a poor man : ah ! this child , reply'd she , is the cause of all my sorrow , and related what had hapned ; adding moreover that she thought it was changed , and none of her child . The old man , whom years had rendred more prudent in such matters , told her that to find out the truth , she should make a clear Fire , sweep the hearth very clean , and place the child fast in his chair that he might not fall before it ; then break a dozen eggs , and place the four and twenty half shells before it , then go out and listen at the door , for if the child spoke it was certainly a Changeling , and then she should carry it out and leave it on the Dunghil to cry , and not to pity it , till she heard its voice no more . The woman having done all things according to these words , heard the child , say , seven years old was I , before I came to the Nurse , and four years have I lived since , and never saw so many Milk-pans before . So the woman took it up and left it upon the Dunghil to cry and not to be pittied , till at last she thought the voice went up into the air ; and coming out , found , there in the stead , her own natural and wel-favoured child . CHAP. VII . Of Specters and Phanthasms . THE History of Milan gives credit to an Adventure very notable , which hapned to two Merchants passing through the wood of Turin to go to France , who met with a Spirit in form of a man of tall stature , who called after them , saying , return , return back again , and go to Louys Sforce , to whom you shall give this Letter from me . Then they asked him who he was , to which he answered ; that he was Galaas Sforce his brother : now Galaas Sforce , had been dead long before . The Merchants therefore much astonished , promised to do his commands , and went back to Milan to the Duke , to whom they presented the Letter . The Duke thinking it a cheat and illusion , put them in Prison : nevertheless , because they persisted still in affirming the truth of it , the Senate was assembled , where much dispute passed , touching the opening of this Letter ; at last there was none but Galeas Viscount , that dared to lift up the Seal and read what was written therein . O Louys , take heed to thy self , for the Venetians and French , joyn together against thee to thy hurt , and will utterly destroy thy Race ; nevertheless , if thou wilt give me three thousand Crowns , thou shalt see the matter reconciled , for I will avert thy sad Destiny . Farewell . But the Duke could by no means be induced to believe this , which afterwards did truly come to pass . By Lovys , the eleventh King of France , who sent him prisoner to his Kingdom . Marsilius Ficinus , as Baronius relates , made a solemn vow with his fellow Platonist , Michael Marcatus ( after they had been pretty warmly disputing of the immortality of the Soul , out of the principles of their Master Plato ) that whether of them two dyed first , should appear to his friend , and give him certain information of that truth ; ( it being Ficinus his fate to dye first , and indeed not long after this mutual resolution ) he was mindful of his promise when he had left the body . For Michael Marcatus , being very intent at his Studies betimes in a morning , heard an horse riding by with all speed , and observed that he stopped at his window ; and therewith heard the voice of his friend Ficinus crying out a loud , O Michael , Michael , Vera , vera sunt illa . Whereupon he suddenly opened his window , and espyed Marsilius on a white Steed , whom he called after , but he vanished in his sight . He sent therefore presently to Florence , to know how Marsilius did ; and understood that he dyed about that hour he called at his window ; to assure him of his own , and other mens Immortality . Dionysius , the Siracusian Tyrant , a little before his death , saw as he sate in his house , molested with some troublesome thoughts , a filthy and ugly Specter , brushing and cleansing his Palace , from which fear he was not free , till he dyed . Marcus Brutus likewise , when he was meditating something against Octavius , and Antonius , in his Chamber by a Candle in the night , heard somebody come into his chamber , and looking about to see if it were any of his Domestick servants , saw a great and deformed Specter in shape of a man. Nevertheless , not much frighted at the sight , ●…e asked him whether he were a Spirit or a God , or what he would have . I am said he , thy Evil Genius , and I 'le meet thee at Philippi . To whom Brutus again , as a true and Valiant Roman , I 'le meet thee there . Then having inquired of his servants if they had let any such person in , and finding they had not , he began to doubt of the success of that War , as afterwards it hapned , where again this Genius met him . Alexander ab Alexandro ; writes an admirable History of a Gentleman that had newly buried his friend , and returning to Rome , lay at an Inn by the way . Where being alone and awake , there appeared to him the Phantasm of his deceased friend , pale and wan as when he dyed ; whom when he saw and could scarce speak for fear , he asked at last what he would have . But the Specter returning no answer , seemed to pull off his cloaths , and came to ly by him in the same bed . The other being extreamly frighted , gave way to him , who perceiving he accepted not of his company , lookt upon him with a stern countenance , and having drest himself departed . The other out of exceeding fear , fell extreamly sick , affirming for truth , that the feet of this Phantasm were as cold as Ice . A Gentleman of Naples travelling in the Road , is reported to have heard the voice of a man imploring and desiring help ; and that going to the place , he saw a terrible Specter beating a young man , but by his Prayers , caused him immediately to vanish . Afterwards he brought the young man to his house , and although it were long before he came to himself ( for the Phantasm ever appeared before him ) yet at last he confessed many great Crimes that he had most wickedly committed . The like , we read of a youth of mean parentage amongst the Gabis at Rome , that going thither , and meditating some Treachery against his Parents , met the Devil in his way , in shape of a man ; so that falling into discourse together , they came to the same Inn and lay together that night . But when the other was a sleep , his cursed companion laid hold on him to strangle him , but that the other awaking , began to pray to God for help , at whose Name Satan made such hast to be gone , that he broke through the top of the house ; by which fear the youth afterwards changed his evil intentions , to an honest and Religious life . A rich Gentleman , that lived thirteen Miles from Goi●…is , had made a great Feast , and invited his friends , but they came not . Whereat being extreamly incensed , come , said he , all the Devils that will , since my friends are so unworthy . And immediately after , came in many Goblings , as it were , in the several habits of Merchants , and Gentlemen , Forreiners , who were kindly welcomed , and sate down to Table . But stretching forth their fingers like Cats Claws , they were perceived indeed to be Demons ; and the Gentleman making some Invocation to God ( as people in fear naturally use to do ) they all vanished , but so perfum'd the room , that few guests ever came into it afterwards . Sabellicus writes for a true and admirable relation , that a Secretary of Lewis Alodiser Lord of I●…ole , travelling to Ferrara , met in a Valley between two great Hills a Phantasme in shape of Lewis's Father , who dyed and had been magnificently buried not long before , appearing on Horsback , and with a Hawk on his fist , as it was his custome when he went a Hunting in his life time . This Specter charged him to return presently to his Son and tell him , that he should come the next day and meet him in that place , for he had matters of great importance to discover to him : The Secretary through fear and obeysance went back to Imole , where he related what had hapned : but Lewis , whether he feared some ambush in that place , or credited not the relation , would not go in person , but sent another in his name to see what the Spirit would declare : the Ambassador being arrived with the Secretary at the place , the same shadow appeared to them , complaining greatly of the Prince that he would not come himself , and hear what he dared not to reveal to any other . Nevertheless , he commanded them to return , and tell their Master , that before two and twenty years , specifying the Month and the Day , he should lose the Government of that place . The time being come , Lewis stood upon his guard , remembring the threats pronounced by his Fathers Ghost . Yet notwithstanding , all his preparations , that Year , that Month , and Day , the Souldiers of Philip Duke of Milan , passed the Trenches , scaled the Walls , and obtained the Town , and took him prisoner . Cardan relates , that a friend of his , going in a dark night from Milan to Galerat , saw a strange apparition of fiery Spirits , who inform of Pesants , ran behind him in the way upon a fiery Cart , crying with a loud voice , Take heed , take heed ; and although he spurred his horse , and made all the hast possible , yet they were still at his back : till at last , when he came to St. Lorences Church , which is without the Castle-Gate , he recommended himself to God , and presently he thought he saw those Pesants , with their burning Cart and Oxen , swallowed up in the Earth . After this , it was observed , that the Inhabitants of Galerat , were tormented that year with a cruel Plague , and other great afflictions . P. Matthieu Historiographer to Henry the fourth King of France , writes , that in the year 1598. as that King was hunting in the Forrest of Fountainebleau , a great cry of Hounds and Huntsmen , was heard at half a miles distance ; which sometimes again , as they drew neer a wood , seemed to be within twenty paces of them . Whereupon the King commanded the Earl of Soissons to set Spurs to his horse and see what it was , believing that there was none so bold as to meddle with his Game , or hinder his pastime . The Earl of Soissons went , and still heard the noise , not perceiving whence it came , till a tall man in black presented himself in a thick mist , crying , Do you hear me ? do you hear me ? and suddenly vanished . At which words , the stoutest of them , resolved to leave off hunting for that day , wherein nothing but danger and fear was expected . Now although fear commonly ties the tongue , and freezeth the words , nevertheless , they related this Matter , and have caused it to be inserted in the History of that King ; which many would think to be a fable of Merlin or Urgand the unknown , if the truth affirmed by so many persons of Credit , and seen by so many judicious eyes , had not put away all doubt . There is a History no less admirable , of a Merchant of Sicely , that travelling in the year 1536. upon the one and twentieth day of March , not far from the Castle of Tauriming , met in the way with ten Demons in form of Blacksmiths , a little farther with ten more , and again with another that seemed a true Vulcan , and having questioned him whither he went , he answered he was going to forge at Mount Aetna ; to which the Merchant reply'd , that he wondered they should go to forge on a Mountain that was always covered with Snow . Alas , said the other , thou knowst not my strength , but ere long shalt perceive it , and then he vanisht . The next day toward night , a great Earth-Quake opened the Mount in several places , and much mischiefe was caused by the fire to the Inhabitants . CHAP. VIII . Of Places Haunted . THere was in Athens , a great and spacious House , but very infamous for a report that it had for long time been haunted by an evil Spirit . That in the dead time of the night , a strange noise was heard , at first as it were from the yard , which came neerer and neerer , till there stood before them an old man , lean , pale , and with a long beard , having his hands and feet chained , which he often shaked . By these terrors , the Inhabitants fell sick , and many dyed ; for the rememberance of the image impressed on their fancy , caused a deadly fear . Insomuch that at last , it was left desolate . Nevertheless , Bills were set up in several places of the City , if peradventure any one would venture to hire and inhabit it . At that time the Phylosopher Athenodorus came to Athens , and reading one of these bills , and the small rent it was to be let at , by reason of its infamy , bought it , notwithstanding what the people reported of it . And gave order the first night , that his bed should be made in the first room of it , some books and his pen and paper to be brought , that his mind being imployed and busied , might cause no vain fears . In a studying posture therefore he watched , and when at midnight he heard the noise of Chains and Irons , as had been reported to him , he neither lifted up his eyes nor left writing , till it seemed to be in the Room . Then looking towards the door , there appeared the image of an ancient man loaded with chains , beckoning , as it were , for him to follow : the Phylosopher on the other side , made signes with his hand that he should stay a little till he had made an end of what he was writing . But the spirit began again to shake his chains , at which the other left off writing , and taking the Candle in his hand , followed the Ghost , who proceeded slowly , as if he were very aged , and much loaded with his chains , till he came into the yard where he vanisht . The Phylosopher being left alone , left a mark upon the place , and the next morning caused it to be dug up ; where were found the bones of a man chained , for the flesh was putrified and eaten away ; these being gathered and buried publickly ; the house was never haunted afterwards . Sabellic . lib. 10 Exempl . cap. 3. Erasmus in his Epistles writes , that on the tenth of April 1533. in an Inn of Sciltac a town in Switzerland , there was a certain hissing heard about night time , which seemed to come out of one of the chambers of the house ; wherefore the Host fearing their might have been Thieves , ran thither immediately but could find no body , yet still heard the same noise in the Garret , and not long after upon the top of the Chimney : then supposing that it was an evil spirit , he sent for the Priest to exorcise him , who no sooner began his conjuration , but the spirit answered he cared not for them , since one was a twhoremaster and both were theeves , and herefore he would in spight of them burn the town as he had undertaken ( all this was thought afterwards to proceed by the means of a Familiar Spirit , which the maid of that house confessed on her death-bed , to have had familiarity with , for the space of fourteen years ) the Spirit therefore took this maid to the top of the chimney , and commanded her to spread such fire as he gave her , which she did , and in less than an hours time all the town was consumed , notwithstanding the great abundance of water the inhabitants brought to quench it . Here we may observe the reality of it , as also that the fire was real that the Devil brought , but of another nature than the common or any Artificial fire is , and that it did not fall from above as lightning , which burneth only very little , unless it happens on matters easily combustible , as it hapned in the year 1500. at Paris , when the lightning fell upon the Tower of Billy where the powder was , and since that at Venice . Furthermore , Philippus Camerarius saith of it , that the fire fell here and there upon the Houses in form of burning Bullets , and if any one went to help his Neighbour , he was presently call'd back to help his own . Moreover , I have heard ( saith Camerarius ) the relation of this woful visitation from the Vicar of that place , and many others worthy to be beleived , forasmuch as they were Spectators of all things according to the former relation . The Vicar also had as it were a Crown about his hair ( which he wore long , after the Graecian manner ) of all sorts of colours , which he said hapned by the same Spirit , who threw a Hoop at his head . Moreover the same Daemon asked him once if ever he heard a Raven cr●…ak , and thereupon croaked so horribly , that they were almost dead for fear . The Curate also did affirm ( though not without blushing ) that he often told him , and many others , of their private sins so exactly , that they were forced with shame to quit the place . CHAP. IX . Of Devillish Impostures . ABout the year 1545 hapned at Corduba a famous City in Spain , a most wonderful Imposture of Satan . A young girle of a poor Family named Magdalene de la Croix being but five years old , was put , by her Parents , into a Monastery of Nuns , whether through Devotion or Poverty , 't is unknown , since her years were so few . Nevertheless ( as the Judgements of God are unsearchable , and his ways past finding out ) the Devil appeared to her in shape of a Blakamore , and although she was at first sight much afraid , yet the Fiend did promise her so many Toyes wherein children delight , that he brought her to discourse with him , ever injoyning herstreightly , that she should never disclose ought of their private Conversation . About that time , the Girle began to show a very quick and apprehensive wit , and a nature different from others , which gained her no small esteem from the rest of the Nuns , both old and young . Being come to the age of Twelve , she was sollicited by the Devil to marry him , and for her Dowry , he promised her that for the space of thirty years , she should live in such a reputation of Holiness through all Spain , that the like was never before . Thus while Magdalene under this contract , passed the time in her Chamber with this wicked Spirit , that entertained her with his Illusions , another Demon took her shape and resemblance , and constantly resorted to the Church , to the Pulpit , and to the Cloysters , and all the Assemblies made by the Nuns , with a great deal of seigned Devotion ; he told Magdalene also after he had gone to Church in her place , all that was done in the world ; of which she giving notice to those who had her already in great Reputation , began not only to be accounted an Holy Virgin , but to bear the name of a Prophetess : wherefore although she was not yet come to full age , yet she was elected Mother Abbess by the consent both of the Monks and Nuns . Now when the Nuns went to Communion on Easter day , and other great Festivals among them , the Priest alwayes complained that some body had stolen one of the Hosts from him , which was carryed by this Angel of darkness unto Magdalene , who being in the mid'st of her Sisters , shewed it unto them , and put it in her mouth as a great Miracle . Moreover , it is said , that when she was not present at Mass , though there were a wall between her and the Priest , yet at the Elevation of the Corpus Christi , the wall did cleave that she might see it . It is also very well known that if at any Festival day the Nuns carryed her in Procession with them , to make the action more venerable , by some extraordinary action , she carryed a little Image of Christ newly born , which she covered with her hair that grew down to her feet . Many more such illusions she used chiefly on solemn dayes , that they might be the more recommendable . By this time the Pope , the Emperor , and the Grandees of Spain did write to her , and by their Letters intreated her , to remember them in her Prayers , and asked her advice and councels in all matters of great concernment , as by several Letters found in her Closet was manifested . Many Ladies also and Gentlewomen would not wrap their new-born children in Swadling clothes , till they had been blessed by the Abbess Magdalene . But God permitted not this Diabolical cheat to lye longer concealed ; for Magdalene after she had spent about thirty years in this acquaintance with the Devil , and had been Abbess twelve years , repented of her former life , and detesting these abominable Acts and the horrid society of Satan , she freely discovered , when every one thought least on it , all this notorious wickedness to the visitors of the Order ; yet some report , that perceiving the Nuns began to find the deceit , prevented their discovery , by her own confession ; for such is the custome in Spain , that he obtains his pardon that doth voluntarily confess his crime . At the hearing of this Confession , Magdalene was imprisoned in the Monastery of which she was Abbess . Nevertheless , in the mean time , Satan still continued his illusions , taking the chief place in the Church according to its wonted manner , and was seen on its knees praying and staying for the rest of the Nuns : insomuch that every one thought it had been their Abbess , and that the visitors had given her leave to assist at Mattins , for the great signs she gave of repentance . But the next day finding she was still in Prison , the matter was related to the Visitors ; and her process was at last sent to Rome , but because she had willingly confessed , she received Absolution . This History is affirmed by Zuinger , au Theatre de la vie humaine ; by Bodin also , and Cassiodore Reny . Iosephus relates in his 18 Book and 4th . Chap. that there was at Rome a Noble woman named Paulina , no less famous for her Paarentage than her virtue and beauty , in the flowre of her age , and marryed to Saturninus , a person not unworthy of her . Now , Decius Mundus fell so extreamly in Love with this Lady , that after he had offered for one nights lodging , two hundred thousand drachms , and was repulsed by her , he resolved to end his life in misery . But his Fathers man , a person of evil and subtil nature , conscious to his passion , promised for fifty thousand drachms to bring her into his Arms : and the money being paid , he proceeded in this manner . Paulina being much given to the worship of the goddess Isis , he calls together her Priests , and silence being sworn , he procures them with large rewards to go to Paulina as sent from the god Anubis to fetch her unto him . This message she received gladly , and h●…r friends rejoyced that she should be thought worthy of the god Anubis : no●… did her Husband knowing her chastity to be so great , any wayes let her preparations . The night being come , she was after supper shut by the Priests in the Temple , where Mundus met her , whom she obeyed and pleasured that night , supposing he had been the god she worshiped . But it was not long after before Mundus meeting her in the City , thou hast wel done Paulina , said he , that thou savedst me two hundred thousand Drachms : nor is it any matter that thou denyedst me as Mundus , since thou hast entertained me for Anubis . At these words she tore her hair and rent her cloathes , and related the matter to her Husband , and her husband to the Emperor Tiberius ; who upon strict inquisition , hanged the Priests , raced the Temple , and commanded that the Statues of Isis and Anubis , should be thrown into the river Tyber ; but Decius Mundus , escaped with banishment only , his crime being referred to the strength of a passion that had deprived him of reason . Eusebius reports the same of one of Saturns Priests , by name Tyrannus , who procured that such and such a Lady , as by the will of the god , should every night be shut in the Temple ; nor did any Husband think himself unhappy in this , but sent his wife richly adorned that night to the Temple , and also great presents , that she might be the more acceptable to the god . Now Tyrannus constantly shut the Temple , delivered up the keyes , and went away . But 't was not long before he returned through his secret doors into the image of Saturn that was hallow at the back and joyned to the wall . Then did he speak to the woman as she prayed to him , & at last commanding her to put out the watch Taper , descended to her betwixt fear and joy , that she was thought worthy to accompany a god . This practise had long time passed undiscovered , till a Chast Matron abhorring the fact by perceiving that it was the voice of Tyrannus , that spoke to her , complained to her Husband of the disgrace ; who incited also by his own , brought him to the Tormentors ; where by confessing the abominable fact , he filled the ▪ Pagan Nobility with shame and confusion , their Mothers being Adulteresses , their Fathers Cuckolds , and their Children Bastards . Henricus Stephanus , in his Book Entituled Apologie pour Herodote gives us an admirable relation to our purpose , after this manner . There hath been formerly ( saith he ) and remaineth still even to this day , a great quarrel and dispute between the Dominican and Fvanciscan Fryars , concerning the Conception of the blessed Virgin. The former hold she was conceived in Sin , the Franciscan that she was not . Insomuch that a Dominican Friar of Francford , named Vigand , made a Book to maintain that the Virgin Mary was conceived and born in Sin , and found fault with all the preceding Doctors that had been of a contrary Opinion . On the otherside , Iohn Spengler the Franciscan , thinking himself wronged by the said Vigand , procured that a publick meeting should be had at Heidlberg , where the matter should be discussed . But the Prince Philip Palatine , hindring this , the Dominicans 〈◊〉 the Franciscans to Rome , where the case lay undecided a long time . At last the Dominicans held their general meeting at Vimtffen , where among other things , they consulted how they might uphold their Opinion , although it was rejected by almost the while world , and several Doctors had written so much against it , and perswaded the world to the contrary . They resolved therefore by some false Miracle , to strengthen their Opinion , and four Dominican Friars were to put the same in execution . These by the means of Francis Ulchi , who was under Prior and a Negromancer , brought their design to pass in this wise . It hapned a while after , that a Journeyman Taylor named Iohn Jetzer born in Zurzea , was admitted into their Order , and after he had received the Habit , one of the Conspirators went to him by night to his Cell , and began to feign himself to be a Spirit , being wrapt in a sheet , and making a strange noise with small sticks and stones that he threw . The other much terrified , began to complain the next day , even to those persons that were the Authors of it . But all comforted him and exhorted him to be patient . And one night among the rest , the counterfeit Ghost spoke to the poor Novice , and charged him to do Penance for him , which the Novice imparting the next day to the Fryars , 't was resolved he should do publick penance for the relief of that Spirit . At which time one of them began to Preach , and expound to the people why that penance was done , not without magnifying his Order , to which that spirit had addressed it self , blaming on the contrary that of the Franciscans . One time amongst the rest , the Spirit commended to the Novice , the order of the Dominicans , as well for the number of Learned men that had been of it , as for the holy manner of life they followed : adding , that he was not ignorant how their Order was hated by many , because of their Dr. St. Thomas , whom they followed in that Opinion , that the Virgin Mary was conceived in Original Sin. Nevertheless , many of their Enemies were grievously tormented by the vengeance of God , and the Town of Berne would perish , if it did not expell the Franciscan Friars , who were of opinion that the Virgin was conceived without And that particularly Dr. Alexander , Dr. Ales , and Iohn Scotus the subtil Doctor , both Franciscan Fryers , were grievously tormented in Purgatory , for inducing the people to hold that opinion . At last the said spirit did counterfeit the Virgin Mary herself , assuring him she was conceived with sin , and certified him also in many other things he desired to know from her . She made also in his right hand , a mark of her Son Jesus Christ , by peircing his hand with a very sharpe Naile : then to appease the pain , she put Lint into it , made of the clouts she wrapped her Child with in Aegypt . But not contented alone with this , the said Friers gave him to drink , a certain Magick Liquor by which he lost his sence and understanding , and then with Aquafoŕtis made four more wounds upon him . Afterwards when by means of a second Liquor , he came to himself , he was much astonished at his wounds ; but they perswaded him , they came from God ; and put him afterwards into a little Cell all hung with the Pictures of the passions of Christ : they gave him also a drink that made him froath at the mouth ; and perswaded him that he was then fighting against death as Christ had done . To conclude , they play'd so many pranks with this poor Monk , that at last he began to perceive the delusion , and escaping out of their hands , discovered all their devillish practises . Whereupon the actors of this wickedness , Iohn Vetter Prior , Steven Boltzhorst Preacher , Francis Ulchi under-Prior , and Henry Steniecker receiver of the Rents , were condemned to be burnt alive in a field , before the company of the Franciscans . There is a pleasant relation amongst the Narrations , Mundi Fortuitas , which I shall not omit in this place ; how in a Village of France inhabited by rude country Boors , a Man fitter for the Cart than a Pulpit ; yet as being the best Scholler in the Town , was made Vicar : and according to custome , nothing was done , nothing thought upon , but the Vicar was ever present among the good women . Insomuch , that by such frequent familiarily , he grew to be well acquainted with one Lisetta a Parishioners wife . Her Husband was not so blind , but he could perceive his horn a growing , and from that time , permitted not the Vicar to come any more to his house . Thus was all the fat in the fire , and their hopes cancelled , had not love found out another way : for according to the Vicars instruction , Lisetta counterfeited her self possessed with the Devil , turning her eyes , arms and legs in strange postures , froathing at the mouth , and ratling in her throat . The simple neighbourhood astonished at these actions , cry'd she was possessed ; and her poor Husband not a little troubled at it , forgot what was past , and goes for the Vicar , to exorcise the Spirit . Alas my friend saith the other , thy Jealousy and suspition , I fear , of our holy Order , hath been the cause of this misfortune , for asmuch as the Chastest Matrons have ran mad , and have been possessed upon this account . Then taking his Robes , Book , and what was fitting on this account , he goes along with him to his wife , and the usual ceremony in such cases , being performed , he askes the spirit , who it was ? Lisetta , as she was before instructed , answered in a small voice , I am the father of this young woman , who am to do Penance for ten years space , in one body or other . Her Husband thinking it to be her Fathers spirit , my Father , said he , I desire thee for Gods Sake , to come out of her . Then the spirit reply'd , I will indeed come out of her , but I shall enter into thee , to compleat the rest of my time alloted for my Penance . The poor man was so terrified at this , that falling at the Parsons feet , my friend said he , do you not know some way to avert this heavy Judgement , either by Prayers , Fastings , Alms , or other Charitable deeds ? then Lisetta perceiving all things to succeed according to her desire , thou art too poor , said she , to hinder thy fate by Alms or charitable Deeds , and instead of these , thou must go visit forty Religious places , and pray in every one , and entreat God to forgive thee thy sins , otherwise never look to escape what Heaven hath ordained . Moreover the spirit went on concerning his false Jealousy and suspition of Holy Men , insomuch , that he fell at the Vicars feet , asking forgiveness , and shortly after began his Pilgrimage . In the mean time , the Vicar was always with his wife , under pretence ▪ to lay the spirit , but 't is questionable whether he raised not a worse . In the year 1534. The Praetors wife Aurelia , had taken care before she dyed , that she might be buried privately , without Pompe and Ceremonies ( for then it was a custome in Erance ) that when any Noble person dyed , the Heralds should call the people together by Cymbals and such like instruments , and then rehearse the Nobility and worth of the person deceased , desiring the people to pray for them : many mendicant Fryars also attended the Corps with an infinite company of lights . So that by a kind of emulation , the more the Pompe was , and the greater the concourse of people , the nobler the Family was esteemed . But her Husband obeying her last desire , gave no more to the Franciscans that buryed her , than six Crowns , whereas much more was expected ; and afterward , when he cut down wood and denyed them some , they were so incensed , that they resolved in revenge , to make the people believe , his wife was damned in Hell. To which purpose , they placed a youth upon the roof of the Church , who at night in Prayer-time , made a great noise there ; and notwithstanding their exorcisms and conjurations would answer nothing ; then being commanded to give some sign that he were a dumb spirit , for a sign he made a great noise : the next day , the Franciscans related to the people what hapned , but desired them not in any wise to absent themselves for that , So the next night , when Prayers began , the spirit also made a noise in the former manner ; but being asked what he was , made a sign that he was not to speak ; he was commanded therefore to answer by signs ( for there was a hole made where the youth could hear what the exorcists said ; and he had a Tablet in his hand , by striking upon which , he gave signs that could be heard beneath ) first therefore being asked if he were any of those that had been buryed there , he made a sign he was , then many names being recited of all the persons buryed there , when they came to the Praetors wife , he knoc'd for a sign that he was her spirit , then they asked if she were damned , and for what fault ? whether for Covetousness , Lust , Pride , or for the new Heresie and Lutheranisme ? and what she desired by her unquietude ? whether that her body should be removed into another place ? to which questions , the spirit by its signs , did give either its affirmation or negation ; and when it had signified that it was tormented for Lutheranism , and desired to be removed from that place : then they desired the people to bear witness of it , but the people fearing the Praetors displeasure would not do it . Nevertheless the Franciscans removed thence their bread and water , and all the sacred vessels , till at last , the Bishops Vicegerent to be better certified concerning this matter , came in person with many Honourable and Religious men , and commanded them to exorcise the spirit in their presence , and to send some body to the roof of the place to see if they could perceive any thing . This the Authors of this villany withstood , saying , the spirit was not to be troubled ; and although he was very urgent , yet could he not prevail with the Franciscans to permit any one to go up . The Praetor in this time went to the King , and because the Franciscans standing upon their priviledges , hindred a strict inquiery into the matter ; the King sent some of his Councel with full power to examine all things . Those of the Franciscans therefore that were suspected , were laid hold on , yet for fear of a shameful death , confessed nothing : But at last , the King promising them Pardon , they disclosed the whole business . nevertheless , they were condemned to be sent again to Aurelia , and put in Prison , till they had publickly before all the people confessed their crime , in the place that Malefactors used to be Executed . CHAP. X. A true and admirable process of a Witch that wrought Miracles , by the help . of the Devil . Mr. Iosse Donhoadere , a learned Lawyer of Flanders , in his Book , Intituled Practique Criminal , writes to this purpose . There was in the time that I was Counsellor in the Town of Bruges , an old woman , that in carriage , clothes , and manner of life , was in appearance irreprehensible ; insomuch , that she gained an esteem from all , and every one had a reverence for her ; forasmuch as she healed , as it were miraculously , the children of many Honourable Families ; straightning the crooked , and setting broken joynts instantly in their places ; not by Art or Physick , but certain words and ceremonies of Devotion : as to fast three dayes , with bread and water , to say so many times the Lords Prayer , to go on Pilgrimage to Nostre Dame d' Ardenbourg , or to St. Arnoul d' Audenbourg , or to St. Iosse , or to St. Hubert of Ardennes , or to say a Mass or two in a day , or to say other certain Prayers and Anthems : These Devotions being exactly performed : the sick people were healed , through the faith they and their relations had in this woman . The carriage and miracles of this woman being published through the Countrey , the Counsellors and Magistrates , that had more wit than the vulgar sort , caused her to be apprehended one night ; to be put in Prison and examined , by what authority and means , and by what confidence she performed such Cures . To which she answered , alwayes confidently , that she did them upon good intentions , and that there was no reason they should torment and persecute her for doing good . Nevertheless the Councel being moved by manifest signs , condemned her to be Rackt , gently exhorting her to declare the truth ; but still she persisted in her first answer , affirming there was nothing unlawful , and that all was done without any compact or agreement with the Devil . There was then present at the Examination the Bourgomaster of Bruges , a man very much tormented with the Gout , that of times he cry'd out as if he had been rack'd himself ; which the old woman perceiving , and turning her self to him , said , Mr. Bourgomaster , have you a mind to be rid of the trouble of your Gout , if you have , I shall cure you , and that very soon ; if it were possible , replyed the Bourgomaster , I would willingly give two thousand crowns to be whole , and you shall have them if thou performest what thou saist . Then the other Judges and Registers that were present told him . Sir , pray have a care what you say , and what you do , believe us and let us send back this Witch into her chamber , and hear patiently what we shall declare unto you : the woman being carryed back , see said they , what danger you put your self into , by a vain perswasion that this woman should be equal to the Apostles , and can cure you of your Gout by lawful means . All indeed that she doth , seemeth apparently Holy and Divine ; but if you look more narrowly into the matter , there is much to be said against it . Let us call for her therefore again , and inquire how she pretends to cure you ; if she promise to cure you miraculously , as the Apostles have done the Diseases of their time , and that she followes the means they have made use of , we shall not be against her , knowing that the hand of God is not straigntned : but if she make use of unlawful means , and puts her trust in them , there is reason that all her proceedings should be suspected both by you and us also . Therefore when she was sent for back again , one of them said , if thou presumest to cure the Bourg Master of the Gout , what remedies and means will you apply ? none other , said she , but that the Bourg-Master believe and be perswaded for certain that I have power to cure him , so shall he be sound , and set upon his feet . Hereupon she was sent out back to her Chamber , then the Judges with one accord , told the Bourg-Master and standers by . You see Gentlemen by the answer of this woman , that she doth nothing , but by the power of Satan , and that she undertakes to cure the Bourg-master by unlawful means ; for in her way she doth not follow the Holy Apostles , who cur'd the sick by Divine Faith and Power , saying to the Lame man , In the Name of our Lord Iesus Christ , rise and Walk : and to the Blind , In the Name of our Lord Iesus Christ , recover thy sight ; so that one was set upon his feet , and the other recovered his sight ; not by humane help , but by the Divine Power , in the Name and Faith of Jesus Christ. Now this Witch boasteth only to cure , if the Patient put his trust in her and believe that she can do it : such faith , or rather perfidicusness , is directly against the practise of the Apostles . This answer being well apprehended and digested , the Bourg-Master was sorry for what he had done , gave no more credit to woman , and ever after repented him of his levity . But to return to the Witch , because she did persevere in denying those things she was accused of , it was concluded she should be put to the Rack , where being stretch roughly , she acknowledged some light faults , but as for Witchcraft , she utterly deni'd it . Whereupon she was released for that time , and lockt in her Chamber . A while after being again accused by new Evidences brought against her , she was the second time put to the rack , where again she confessed some small faults , as before . But finding her self tortured , she began to cry and say , takeme away hence , or I shall stink you all out of the Room , for I can hold my ex●…rement no longer . There was a house of office neer , whither the standers by would have her carryed ; others more judicious , were of opinion she should not , fearing some greater difficulty might arise ; but by plurality of voices , she was untv'd , and carryed thither : and having staid there half an Hour and more , although she were called twice or thrice , she was at last compelled to come forth , and was put to the Rack again , and was tortured more vehemently then before . But she without crying or lamenting as she had done before , fell a laughing , and derided and mocked the Judges , bidding them do what they would , their cruelty could prevail nothing against her . Hereupon the standers by , thought the Devil had made her impassible , for she would confess nothing that was charged against her : but being stretcht on the Rack , she either laught or slept . Therefore by the councel of some more judicious in such matters than the rest , she was taken , and shaved in all parts of the body where hair used to grow , and was searched by divers woman , who found ty'd about her arms , certain small Parchment notes , containing the names of evil Spirits , with some crosses intermixed . These Bills being presented to the Magistrate , she was again stretched on the Rack , where , at the first pull she began to roar and confess all , whereof she had been accused : and being examined concerning her former obstinacy in her denials , she said that if she had not been wholly shaved , and deprived of those Bills , the truth had never came out of her mouth , This being brought to this pass , the Judges proceeded to condemnation , some were of Opinion she should be burnt alive , others for the most part , that she should only be put to a rigorous fine , to be banished from the Countrey and never to return upon pain of being burnt : according to this last opinion , she was set upon a Scaffold , with a false Periwig made on purpose , which was taken off her head by the Hangman and thrown in the fire kindled to that end . Afterwards she was conducted by two Judges and the Attorney of Bruges out of their Territory . Thus out of Flanders she went into Zealand , and dwelt some time at Middlebroug , where she presently fell to her former trade . The Lord Florent Dam Judge of the town , was advised by us , of what was past concerning this woman , and in favour of justice , the Copies of her Accusations and Confessions , and Sentence was sent him ; which made him strictly observe her , and finding by undeniable truths , that she persevered in her diabolical Witchcraft , caused her to be apprehended and put in Prison , and having narrowly examined her , by her wilful confessions , and according to her former Sentence , he condemned her to be burnt alive . After which he sent a Letter , with the whole Relation to Bruges , whereof Danhoudere hath given us this relation . CHAP. XI . The horrid end of Witches and Negromancers . ZAcoes and Arfaxad the great Persian Magicians , at the very hour St. Simon and Iude suffered Martyrdome , were struck dead with Lightning . Cynops the Prince of Negromancers , was at St. Iohn's Prayers swallowed up with waters ; and Methotin who by his Diabolical illusions , got to be High-Priest , was stoned . Several have been taken away alive by the Divel , but one more wonderfully , as we may read in Spec. Hist. lib. 26. c. 26. after this manner . There hapned one day that a certain Daw that an old Witch kept , spoke ; at which , the woman let fall the knife out of her hand as she was at dinner , and grew extream pale ; till at length after many sighs and groans , she broke out into these words . This day my Plough is come to its last Period , and I shall certainly suffer some great evil . Whilst she thus spoke , a messenger brought word that her Son was dead ; upon which newes , she fell immediately sick , and sending for the rest of her children which were two ▪ a Monk and a Nun : I have by my wretched Fate , said she with grief , these many years , followed Witchcraft , and given my self , body and soul , to the Devil , that perswaded me to this wickedness , and will be the punishe●… as well as the Author of it . I desire you therefore that you would not 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 me to asswage my 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 struction of my soul is 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 shall also ●…ew up my 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 skin , and put it into a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ●…ing fast the top wa●… 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 shall bind it with 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 if I lye securely 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ye shall bury me ; 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 sung for me , fifty 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Prayers said . All these things her two children obeyed , after the death of their mother , but prevailed not , for the first two nights , when the Monks began to sing Hymns about the body , the Devils opened the Church doors , that were shut with a great barr , and broke two chains , but the middlemost being stronger , remained whole : the third night , the noise was so great of those Demons that came to fetch the body , that the very foundation of the Church was shaken . But one Devil in shape more terrible than the rest , broke down the doore , and went toward the Coffin , commanding the body to arise , which answered , it could not for the chain ; thou shalt be delivered , replyed he , from that hindrance ; and going to the Coffin , he broke the Chain , and with his foot thrust off the covering , then taking the woman by the hand lead her out of the Church in presence of them all , to the door , where stood a black horse ready , and proudly Neighing , upon which the woman was placed , and all the company of Devils went away with her through the Air , their noise being so great , that the Inhabitants thereabouts were no less astonish'd then the beholders . CHAP. XII . The difference between good and evil Angels , with an admirable relation of a good Genius . HAving hitherto in some manner , declared the acts of evil and cursed Spirits , 't will be reasonable , that before I conclude this Treatise , I give you some account , of those blessed Angels , which God oft times , for reasons best known to himself , hath caused to appear unto men , and to distinguish the one from the other , there are three ways of discovery . The first is according to Jamblic●…s d' Mysterijs , that the good never appear in any phantastical shape , nor strive to deceive us , or offer to councel us in wicked matters . Evil angels on the contrary , appear always in strange shapes ; and although sometimes they strive to imitate the Children of Light , to be thought Angels of God , yet because of their evil nature , if desired to do evil , they willingly consent to it , and are unconstant , and unstable in all their actions . The second rule to distinguish them , is , that the works of unclean Spirits , profit no body , as to make a starue walk , an image speak , and the like , as Simon the Sorcerer , it said to have done : but those of Divine Powers , allway contribute to mans good , thus our Saviour made the Blind see , the Lame walk , cast out Devils ; and the like did the Apostles , which Simon Magus could not do . Thirdly , they are discovered according to Athanasius by St. Antony , from their manner of appearing . For the aspect of evil spirit is terrible , their noise horrid , their speech ●…ordid ; when it hap●…eth that our mind is terrified at their sight , and our sences stupified . At their departure likewise , they terrify us most , and alway leave a noysome scent behind them . But the Holy and blessed Spirits appear with a meek and gentle countenance , for they never scold nor brawl , but bring joy and hope to a penitent sinner ; forasmuch as they came from God , the Author and Fountain of joy ; nor is our mind troubled much at the sight , but is rather illuminated , and desires forthwith to leave this earthly Tabernacle , and to hasten with what it sees to an eternal mansion ; and as the Angel that saluted the Virgin , that spoke to Zacharias , that told the Shepherds concerning our Saviours birth , that they should not fear ; so they remove all fear from us , and leave us in a joy unspeakable . An admirable History of a good Genius or Guardian Angel. BOdin makes mention of a friend of his that had alwayes a Spirit accompanying him , which he began first to perceive , at the age of seven and thirty , not but that he thought the same Spirit had alwayes been with him in his life-time , by reason of many dreams and visions by which he had been forewarned to shun many imminent dangers and vices ; but that he never perceived it so plainly as he did at that age and upwards , which hapned after this manner . 'T was his custome to Pray so continually , that for above a year he had not ceased to desire of God , morning and evening , that he would be pleased to send him a good Angel to guide and direct his actions . He spent also certain houres after his Prayers in contemplating on the works of God , meditating , and reading the Bible , to find out , among the multitude of Opinions which was the true Religion , and to this purpose he often repeated the 143 Psalm . Me Deus informa quae sit tuasancta voluntas Morrigerasque manus praesta , gressasque sequaces : Namque eris ecce Deus semper mihi tramite recto Spirituus ille tuus divinaque virgula ducat . And reading many Holy Authors , he found in Philo the Jew , de sacrificiis , that a good and perfect man , could offer no better sacrifice to God than himself ; whereupon he offered his soul to God : from which time forward , he had dreams and visions full of admonition ; sometimes to correct this or that vice , sometimes to give notice of ensuing dangers , other while to solve some great dificulty , as well in divine as humane affairs . Amongst the rest of his dreams , he heard a voice saying to him , I will save thy soul , I am the same that hitherto hath appeared unto thee . Afterwards dayly about three or four a clock in the morning , the Spirit knock'd at his door , but when he rose and opened it he saw no body . Thus the Spirit continued every day , and never ceased knocking till he arose ; this put him in fear it might be some evil spirit , wherefore he never ceased in his Prayers to desire God to send his good Angel , singing Psalms and Prayses to God continually . Upon this the spirit manifested it self to him as he watched one night , by striking gently upon a glass vessel that was in the room , which very much astonished him ; two dayes after he hapned to entertain his friend the Kings Secretary at dinner , who was much affrighted to hear the Spirit knock on a bench that was near him ; insomuch that he was forced to declare the whole matter to him : and from that time ever after , the spirit waited on him , admonishing him alwaies by some sensible sign , sometime by pulling his right ear , if he had done any evil ; as also it any one came to deceive or cheat him , his right ear was pulled , and the left , if good men on honest designs : likewise if he went to eat and drink any evil , he was admonished to desist ; if good , to proceed . And as often as he went to praise God in Psams and Hymns , or to meditate on his wonderful works , he was strengthned , and confirmed by an extraordinary and spiritual power . And to the end he might discern the better , his inspired dreams , from those that proceeded either from the temperament of his body , or perturbation of his mind ; he was wakened by the same spirit , about two of the clock , after which time he slept again , and dreamt those that were true , which admonished him of what he was to do , and believe , concerning those things of which he doubted . So that from that time forwards , nothing hapned to him of which he was not forewarned ; nor did he at any time doubt of any thing to be beleived or rejected , but he was certified concerning it . Wherefore he chose one day in the week particularly to prayse God , and seldome went out ; if p●…radventure he did , he was alway seen to be of a joyful countenance , according to the Scriptures , Vidi facies sanctorum laetas ; but if in discourse and conversation , with others , there passed any evil ; or if at any time he omitted his Prayers , he was admonished of it in his sleep : if he read in any evil book he was pulled softly by the ear till he laid it down , and was hindred from doing any thing prejudicial to his health ; but chiefly he was admonished to rise early , and if at any time he slept late , he heard a voice say , who will rise first to prayer ? he was warned also to give Alms , which the more he did , the better did things prosper under his hand ; once when his enemies came by water to take away his life , he dream'd his father bought him two horses , a red and a white one , therefore he gave order that two horses should be bought , and although he had said nothing to his servant , concerning their colour , nevertheless he bought two of those colours . Now the reason why he never spoke to this spirit , was , because he had once desired it , and on the suddain it struck so vehemently against the door , as if it had been with a Mallet , whereby he shewed it was unpleasing to him , the spirit also never permitted him to read or write long , and often he could hear a small shrill voice , but not distinguish what it said : nor did he ever see this spirit in any shape , but of a certain clear light , in a round square or circle : once only when he was in great danger of his life , and he had incessantly pray'd to God to save him ; about morning , as he lay in his bed , he saw a boy in white garments of excellent countenance and form . Another time being in great danger , and going to lye down , he was often hindred by this good Genius , till such time as he arose and passed the night in prayers ; after which he escaped death miraculously , and heard in his sleep a voice saying , Qui sedet in latibulo Altissimi , &c. Thus in all difficulties he received councel , and in all dangers he was assisted and saved by his Guardian Angel. Now the truth of this relation we may gather from several circumstances , as well that the person said his ear was struck by the good Angel to admonish him what was to be done , according to that of Esaiah , Dominus , saith he , vellicavit mihi aurem diluculo : as also that he said , the good Angel manifested himself by knocking , as it were , with a hammer , for we read in the book of Judges , concerning Manoah , that the Angel began to knock before him , the Original of the word whereby it is expressed , being , tintinabulum or tympanum . But whether every one hath his Genius , Good or Bad , attending on him , 't is hard to determine , although it hath been an old and received Opinion , according to these words , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . FINIS .