THE ROYALIST REFORMED Or Considerations of Advice, 

To Gentlemen,  
To Divines,  
To Lawyers.   Digested into three Chapters. Wherein their former mistakes are examined, and their duties of obedience, unto the present Authority, succinctly held forth as rational, and necessary.  Proverbs CHAP. 27. Verse 6. 
Faithful are the wounds of a Friend: But the kisses of an Enemy are deceitful.  
By Albertus Warren, Gent.  
LONDON, Printed by Francis Leach for George Thompson, dweling right against Lincolns-inn in Chancery Lane. 1650.   

Ad Lectorem candidum, de Serie et usu LIBELLI.  
DIssingens regulas generosis, sponte Libello,  
pacis adest nostro tempere, Causidicus.  
Dira Malignantis recolens molimina Cleri,  
Pneuma Sacrosanctum stringere fraude pia.  
Sphalmata Doctrinae legum subrepta notavit,  
sic leges pateat DOSE carere sua.  
Invicto ALBERTVS rationis flumine victus,  
dux tibi sub rabido sidere (lector) erit.  
Ergo inter quondam tollentes regna Monarchae,  
ingenuo velox huic referatur honos.  
T. M.   

To the Judicious Reader.  
BEing myself a free, unmercenary agent, how dishonourable soever (unto some men springie brains) my discourse may appear, I pass not: because, wiser heads will report me just in not smothering light upon terors of Relations, or prejudice. If to honour my protectors from Foreign and Domestic tyranny be a suine, I shall offend till my death without regreat, the Crime wanting a name: we see the Governing part of our Chivalry may challenge that respect as due, they being a People designed to great transactions; But how fare the sympathy, and antipathy of sounds distracts many ears we daily find; A restless Generation, undervaluing present felicities, raiseth a Dust in our eyes; But wise men's discretion will either close their sights at its approach, or fan it away. What shall we say unto Presbyterians unpardonable folly, in coveting a regard (when formerly disowned by now expired Regency) from their Church-Governments natural Enemy? What to Royalists Dreams after Materials, which Heaven hath solemnly declared unfit, and given many judicious verdicts against them? The first are only angry they missed the Honour in not cutting of that head, which they themselves had long before fitted unto the block, the second vainly would indent with God which way they shall go to heaven, and both these rashly weigh most persons above us, in a Carnal scale, both are accessary unto the need less arraignments of their own indiscretions. Emulation and and presumption will disparadise whom they captivate: God hath set a period to every form, upon whose providence, who prudently depends, hath pitched upon an Object, shall never taint his imagination. Let private interests, or disaffected relations throw what scorn they can upon the seeming weakness or audacity of my reason, she shall never fail to concentre, and triumph in her high, undoubted, Divine parentage.  Non haec sine numine Diuûm eveniunt.  

page 33 read diffutit for dissit, Line 34 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 for 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Pag. 38 line 9, read of for a.   


CHAP. I Respecting Gentlemen  
I Have been as much beholding either to ancient riches, learning, valour, or the like uncertain seed of Heraldry, as most men. & am thereby obliged to a special regard of gentlemen; and gentry's reputation: your exception (Gent.) is the less against me, yet I know neither birth, field valour, Ecclesiastic employments, profession in the municipial laws of England, either in a Theoretic or practical way, are sufficient to maintain a stock of virtue and discretion, but the variety of these qualifications forces me (who have little logical art) to use some rude Method in my intended reflections, in order to each respective qualification I deal withal, beginning with those who stand so much upon their right of respect by extraction or birth.  
Unto such it is not denied, but that the virtue of their Ancestors hath of due cut out great respect, yet such is that regard, as must take its collateral prop also upon, and from secondary endowments, adding lusty to the remote cause; and whereof yourselves (Gent.) must be  Masters; otherwise empty pretensions of bloud-worthiness are idle, and indeed render the pretenders ridiculous, if not more conspicuously sordid.  
No Rant of breeding, as by most understood and confined, either to a good pronunciation of some foreign tongues behaviour with ladies, postures artificial of defence or the like (most usesull for all Gent. in due place) can with me be ever able to cancel the general prejudice taken up against you, for doting to much upon those external garbs and modes, while yet, the study of circumstances, of men and times is so far neglected by you: while no discreet and religious observing survey is made of God's extraordinary actings in these days, neither of the height of Agents and Patients by Strange (to us) counterworking.  
Many of you mark not the rising and falls of men, Popular, Worldly, Wise, aiming at a Reformation of their own, others at Gods, yet miserably in the pursuit thereof, clogged with Carnal passionate Interests.  
But I discern many reasons (as they seem) deterring you from making a severe disquisition of contingences (whose neglect is follye's Nurse) and these are only specious glosses, partly coloured, and set out by rigid Episcopal men, partly upon fears of I know not what loss of Honour and Respect are they begotten; but much upon an hurtful fancy (grounded yet upon that Episcopal Anvil) of the indispensible necessity of Monarchy, which many foolishly deny to have been at all qualified (but by mere grace of the Monarch) in this or any other Nation, looking into the judaic History (undesigneable to ours, or any people's regulation, but the Jews) for all such strained Maxims, wherewith they most vainly abuse themselves and you. The wisdom of this age hath sufficiently to intelligent men, held forth the fallacy of those impertinent disputes.  
That there hath been, ever will be, in all ages, several specific notions of rule, in every Kingdom almost, several sorts of Governors, is evident, by concessions of all Histories sacred, and profane, this to make good, neither mood or figure wanteth.  
Who, without high presumption dares ask why God (for secret reasons in his counsel) hath suffered here a translation of legislative supreme power into new hands? this is in men, language, Alternacye of Providence in Divine Speech; It is his pleasure.  
It is, in my judgement, a notorious piece of Foolery for any man to ask, by what right of justice the Hollander shaked of their Usurper most fortunatly; his present quiet excercise of Religion, Peace, Riches, and all earthly happiness answers it.  
The Gent. of England lose themselves in being too credulously concluded by other men's Doctrines; Examples teach better then cold Logic, Persons now a days are most to be stedied.  
Divide this Kingdom with your Eyes, and the Spawn of distracting Interest, either in Court, or Church, will appear to have had to great an influence in generating gentlemen's extremities. In my retired thoughts, I have often admired, this Nation could so long endure the horrible mischiefs, that little (now headless) Bishop) by holding the Heart, and Ear of a King over us, brought to pass: his Beagles are good at cold hunting, but my advice unto you all is, (tendering herein your moral and Religious safety) that hereafter you do manage your consciences, and Interests (planted by God) like men and Gentlemen, that you do more narrowly look into their designs, who have thus captivated your understandings; see whether they and others, do not drive on their interests against God's design, and how unhappily they have engaged many of you into desperate attempts, loss of Estates, Privileges, Freedom etc. nay and many times driving on the torrent of youthful heat, into an unreasonable wilful pertinacy in apparent impossibilities, ever since this Parliament sat. I wish it were not so. But I perceive the devices those Clergy creatures have to ensnare you are divers, as the manner of their contrivances, for every one will not be catched with the same bait, there is amongst them a deboyst fort of men, not much learned, yet able enough, upon every emergency, at a Taverre, to show all that is in them, by a kind of unprofitable eloquence, these spend their time and precious hours in composing premeditated scurrilous Poems, or at least sputter out (between Hawk and Buzzard) a few extemporary Satirical Rhymes upon the visible Authority of the Nation, the tickling foolery of which, inviteth Gentlemen to beg a Copy, sound in their Fobbs by the next Officer at midnight, to their great hazard and disquiet. If these black Coats be not Poetical, they are great News-mongers, But it's ten to one, if one word they utter, among a thousand, be true, for these Gentlemen must pay reckon.  
I have often wondered at them, that they are so open in their discourses, but upon severer sense, I find the reason why they are not reserved, is, that Gallants may (at their first compellation) understand their humours, who have nothing to lose, and they had rather go slinking up and down London in threadbare Coats, glorying in their sufferings forsooth, then (temperately giving way to the premissive providence of Heaven in alteration of Government civil) teach a School, or upon a new score, go Preach God's Word, remitting State matters and Architechtonick administrations to States men, their ordinary is a non entity, they are at liberty. Of their dividing private turbulent heads, I wish honest Gentlemen to be ware, for avoidance of their poisonous instillations, I would have it well weighed.  

1. That is not material to Salvation, what government Civil a man lives under.  
2. That it is not yet discovered, what Church government is of Divine right.  
3. That heroical virtues are furthered mere (not hindered) under a democratical Government then under a Monarchical.   
There is no need why I should (others have said so fully already) make a candid exposure of the undoubted truth of the two former assertions. But the consideration of the latter third position: viz. That Heroical virtues will thrive, and may be exercised better in a democratical, than a Monarchical dispensation, will in a Domestic way be pertinent, towards the leading you out of that erroneus supposition mentioned before, among the causes of the the deterrence, and keeping so great a distance from searching into the reason of things, and present condescension to Authority, scilicet. That fear of Honour's loss from that cause, less doubt, I say, deterring Gentlemen from suffering quietly (as Heavens pleasure) the immediate transactions of Public trust, not in their Powers to avoid,  
If it delight your spirits to pry into such rudiments, either of Theology, or Law Municipal, of this Kingdom, as lead Men instrumentally to honours, and places of trust in this Kingdom; It will appear in reason, that men under a Democratick or Sanatory rule, shall not, will not be wholly at the Devotion of a Prince, or Tyrant, capacitated or empowered to throw them down causelessely from their deserved honourable trust at pleasure, so that in such places of public employment, men may (under Democracy) do justice more boldly, and discover to the world, upon every opportunity, their gifts of unawed nature (not insisting upon though very considerable) that under Democracy or State-government, offices public will not in probability be often referred to Deputies, as they usually have been, partly by reason of hability presumed for the future to be in future Officers, they being eligible by desert, not Aulicall favour, and especially regarding how all things will (as in their carriages of such places) be laid forth, and subjected to general and public question, when as a fixed, standing power for appeals, in cases of injustice, will be existent, for punishing offences starting up, for which no law was, or could be written: a great defect in Monarchy it was, where Laws, respecting general equity suffered damnable mischiefs in particular.  
What therefore can be greater, or more pregnant encouragement to a Religious, active noble mind, then to breath in such a Common wealth, (may ours prove so) where a Gap is not only set open, for every ingenuous spirit, by Virtue's stairs, to climb up Honour's Temple; but also a contrivance laid, that Envy, malice, ambition, covetousness, or the like, shall notably be stated of, in a prudential way, from tumbling him down from those sweet turrets of reputation and trust; unless those Cardinal Vices, or their friends, be able first to bring in all the Studds, and groundcels of the Mansion or Manor house, (which must be rare) jointly together, or the major part of them, into a conspiracy against virtue, a conjunction of difficulty that must needs be, and very unfortunate; for doubtless, a Community (as hath been often intimated) cannot be so easily misled, neither so frequently defect from discretion, as the private Judgement or passion, of one individual numerical person.  
Thus fare I have already endeavoured succinctly a preoccupation of your prejudice. (Fellow gentlemans) who mind something higher than an horse, or dog, your mistresses, or recreation at Tennis or a Bowling alley; for it is your good I principally intent hereby. Give me leave before I pass any further, to take a lttle pity on such others (whose heads are Synechdochcially soft) for quietness sake, for they are afraid high shoe's will sit above them, wherein I refer (with reverence) also unto the understanding conteurplative Gent. (than whom I have none more happy in this world) In order whereunto, as to a possibility or probability of extenuating that respect and honour, (wherewith born Gent. are already invested) under a State-government (if Heaven will have it so) it is not greatly to be suspected in reason; For as most men either are gentlemen or would be so, and one main reason, as may be supposed, why the Lineal gentlemen (not of the first, second, or third head (these are things much looked into by many I promise you) but of a long series in Heraldry, were no better esteemed in Regal times, was, because Honour lay then radically in Kings of this Nation, it dwelled in their natural, not Politic capacity, yet was it so corruptly shed in hands of subordinate Officers, for dispensation of it, that any man might be made a gentleman for money, money would make a man a Knight though no gentleman; but if a Parliament be the supreme Judicatory of the Nation, though as you see now abstracted from Kings, actually empowered heretofore by a King; If I say you grant or but admit them (as who can deny that) nomothetical at present, questionless, they are capacitated to give, and create honours, as well as laws, they may and will grant honours, defer rewards for services Civil and Martial; And in all likelihood, they will be prudent in foreseeing, That as accessions of honour, or creation thereof, are great incentives to gallant Spirits, towards heroical Virtues; so the too to frequent collation of titles, will render honour less desirable, less esteemed. Upon which it must necessarily follow, that ancient gentlemen's honours, being already their own, and other men's acquirable only upon such extraordinary presumptions, the latter will not exceedingly multiply, their Lineal splendour will shine more uncontrollably, without numerous Rivalry, or Competition,  
And without question, in such governments, where preferments will be gainable by desert (presuming it for the future so in our State) Learning is like enough to flourish, (though some lazy functions and vast misemployed proventions be dissipated) for as much as this obstruction will be cancelled.  
Quorum virtutibus obstat res augusta Domi, when to be borne of honest, but poor Parents, shall not obscure those excellencies (under a Cottage, better beseeming a Court) bestowed by the God of. Nature not in vain, when money, or favour of friends shall not wholly prevail, for investing in places of trust undeserving men, where, virtue shall not wait upon persons. (The bane of all States) which indeed was our case under Regal government, where, prerogatives, privileges, and exemptions shall not nurse up in justice or Tyranny. Learning will increase in such a Kingdom, where, a man may get a fortune by his learning, sooner than by his friends, Privileges and exemptions are not friends, but Enemies to the Muses, let men be what Scholars they will, without judgement, they are unfit for the Ministry, or the State. Nothing is more hurtful to a free People then particular exemptions from general Laws, then Royal or Subject prerogatives, then Regal non obstantes, reserved in grants formerly, but the present visible Authority hath well curtayled those inconveniences in their extension, by subjecting all men generally to Law, none of the least happinesses to a Nation, I assure you. But I return to my discoveries premised, and the instant hindrances of gentlemen's abhorrence from duty that Jealousy of Honour's loss, being removed, and the contrary cleared conseqnently, as I hope in natural reason.  
There starts up next, a second sort of Ecclesiastiacall persons, who pretend to know much, mightily oppugning your condescension to Authority, and subscription to that power, under which God hath placed us all, they are Presbiterian Divines, that will hand over head, have such forms of external discipline, and impulsions upon tender consciences fixed, or else endeavour they will, a confusion of all civil society and corporate strength of this Nation, by talking up, and elevating their humane inventions under Seraphic notions of Christ's government, these will not suffer you like wary wise men, to sit under your own Vines, sleep in whole skins, while Martial men try the quarrel, I fear they drive on an Episcopal design (though pretenders to a pious Reformation) beware of them, at present, let it suffice, they are no fit advisers of you unto whom afterwards also in a more seasonable and methodical place, I shall more fully remonstrate their duty!  
Amongst other causes of gentlemen's unhapy pertinacy, and stubborness, I find, That a conceit of a certain New sin called falling or defection from Principles, carried forth in discourse by Parsons, and made fellows, from one Tavern to another, mainly hinders their condescension, and as conscious of such appostacy, I have by ignorant pretenders been often taxed; the meaning is, that because a man was once wedged up with an implicit faith, believing what some grave hobby horses said, viz, a King is above all Law; Bishops are of divine institution, The Laws of England are so exact, as they need no Reformation etc. I may not forsooth upon more light intervention of better reason, conviction of conscience or judgement, unhalter myself (so likewise others) from those paradoxes, for fear of being subjected to the scandal of falling from principles. This humour of perseverance in misguided reason, is so ridiculous, and yet withal so prevalent, in the soft brains of some Gent. that I have admired to hear it objected, much less brought forth as categorical, in settling vain constancy; because once a fool therefore ever a fool.  
Neither am I ignorant that many of you of good capacity and tempers, are extremely culpable, upon another ground, though seemingly more politic, yet indeed altogether as unreasonable in Christian consideration, you will not stoop one tittle unto those mighty reflections of Scripture, and reason commanding you (under pain of being accounted worthily some of Paul's infidels, in not providing for your families in things indifferent) to concur.  
Gentlemen bluster at Authorities indictions, discover their dissafections, drink healths, making themselves liable to every Tapsters and Chamberlains malice, sometimes against their own sense; say as the Company saith, abundantly fearful in all things; lest the world should occasionally think, they are fallen from principles. And why is all this tepid foolery in these wiser ones, think you? it is, for that having once maintained such or such a tenet, it being notorious they were of such a Faith, they will not be so ingenuous, as to confess an error as men. Augustine was of another mind in his retractions; and, had they been so religiously politic, their Fynes happily had been more favourable. I persuade no man against his Conscience; but I say, unreasonable stubbornness in matters of a middling indifferent nature, is no sympsome of valour; or magnanimity Fitting a Gentleman's breeding.  
I have ever found old Grand jury men (generally by country people supposed to know much very unfit to judge or direct a man's comportment, in these troublesome times, for as the old saying is, wise at fifty or never, they being only knowing in such transactious as concerned Indictments, and the like County affairs, and many of them supposing Laws are sacredly upon the matter unalterable, neither that their influence may be suspended, upon some exigence, where Salus Populi comes in question, yet the manner is, to fly unto their grey Beards as an Oracle for Counsel, when a new Ordnance of Parliament first appears, wherein it cannot be avoided, but sometimes, something must be lest to men's discretions, and election of parties, here Grand lurors are at a stand, for the more any man is used to Forms, the less is he able to judge of an Emergent.  
But above all others, mere Scholars would be avoided by Gentlemen in point of consultation of the times, for they are only skilled in Contemplation, and the chief books about governments, were written in old dark times when Tyrants were the only Kings, and doubtless, people had not that vivacity of understanding what it is, to be envasseled unto despotical Arbitrary powers, in those days, wherefore how is it likely, that Academic men, tutored up by such Masters as the University afforded, (Apes only to those books) whose interest, and dependancyes were linked to the Royal Seat, and who were not preferable, unless of a temperament ready for asserting of a Monarchical and Episcopal governments, should well direct you, I see not.  
No man alive honour's Learning more than myself, though the tennity of my capacity be such as can add no honour unto it. But temper and reason must guide the opinions of Airy terms, and Metaphysic notions, otherwise, how mischievous they are, when falling upon either a vile, or towering Spirit, is ordinarily discerned, yet may it be lawful to affirm, that School learning poisons some constitutions. God is judge of my candid ambition in these Papers; So far prudent I would have Gentlemen, as not in indifferent things, irrationally to strive against the Bent of Heaven's decree, least by rash and needless extravagancies, you compel Authority unwillingly to make you get power, a thing truly I hope, not desired by Authority. How much wiser will it be for Gentlemen to keep their heads above water in these present currents, since we are in England yet (thanks be to God) bounded with Laws, where a well composed man, may enjoy freedoms of conscience, air books and recreations. And although you judgements be not wholly satisfied of the lawfulness of somethings, yet let reason teach us all; that however it happen, we are now in a most fair way for getting most wholesome Laws established (though with alterations of some old ones) such I say, as that, if God will afterwards in his high discretion introduce a pristine form of Government instead of the present existent, those after Ages will blush to abrogate, what so wholesome by present Lawgivers have decreed.  
Neither let the fancies of those men, who (too much affected, either with an overweening apprehension of their own skill or deserts, or precipitantly carried on by a secret divine power, for holding forth God's work, erst prime instruments in those actions wherein the Parliament hath so mightily prevailed) bustled somewhat this Summer, but more dangerously the last before this, speaking perhaps somewhat beyond themselves in some particulars, (yet to wise to endeavour a parity in Civil Administrations) let not such I say, befool you into groundless hopes nor cause yet in Gent. a further abhorrence from condiscending to Superiors: for of this be assured, If you act as common enemies, let the embers of such impolitic drifts blaze when they will, that flame will beget a surer fixation and conjuncture against the common Enemy, and it shall prove a mere exhalation, but the matter of it, will light upon your heads.  
The main pretensions of many now mingled, discontented and ignorant parties (beside the old royalists) are in effect, these. scilicet, That the present Authority at Westminster hath not done such and such acts, in pursuance of such premised forms and modes of actings in civil matters, Qui judex est Rei judex est causae: their own concessions will stifle their own arguments, which grant the parliament supreme, and of power to give Laws, and definitive sentence; what than if intentions in things purely moral, were premised, might not such reason intervene, as might cause them (not to alter resolutions perhaps) but the mado, to traverse their own tempestive, and opportune votes, as tempestively, & opportunely, as prudentially as providentially (causes changing) and with as great reason, to retract as art. Their unhappiness lies only in this, that (enduring so great and multiplicious cares) they cannot possibly preamble every vote, or art at large, this may excuse them, since it must be granted by common indulgence, though few observe it, that the reason at large of few statutes can be prefaced, unless the preface or preamble, should swell beyond the Law; like the gates of Mindus, wide enough for the City to run out of it,  
The nescience, or at least neglect of which knowledge; hath sometimes it is probable, exposed the houses Declarations to unworthy scandals, because of the seeming diametrical oppositions in several ordinances of one indiction to another, and yet these are not opposite senses, nor contradictions in the adject, but an alternate effluxe of discretion in emergencies of necessity requiring such refractive docision, adapted both, upon rational grounds; which alas is cleared unto us as lawful in Domestic affairs, where alterings of resolutions was never (but as it may be circumstantiated) nakedly a sin, or accounted so, and in truth can no more be imputed as declivitie from right reason (or understood as inconstancy, then when a man shall say, he will ride to London such a day (perfining unto himself his end in that journey) when in the mean time, by some intervening accident his end is attained, and journey to London stopped.  
Upon this discretion of alterration all humane laws depend; this is now very remarkable to my apprehension not so before; but I the rather now confess it, because I think it most ingenuous so to do, and hearty wish you the same light, be not ashamed to make recognition of extrication from errors as to heaven and Earth.  
I am now (presupposing your discretion (Gent) that there may be change of governments in Kingdoms, and that there is no necessity of an identical government) come to show you some thing in reason, why I think, Monarchy will cease here, advising still obviously as occasion happens.  
Before I come to that, the Pragmatic Lawyer will draw me aside into admiration, who the better to bolster up his Diana, says, that the Privileges and Prerogatives of Kingly Government (which I know is also God's Ordinance) is of indiscensible divine right, truly, no sound Theologist but will acknowledge other forms also so to claim, but neither of them all of an indispensible necessity, but the truth is, they of the Book law in this state, have borrowed many shifts out of the Civil Law (to make good their assertions) used most what in times of absolute regal, unlimmitted power; and insensibly put upon us by cowing out the people's spirits, no less by Pontificial then Monarchical usurpations, To the Lawyer we intent to speak apart.  
But that it is now very probable Government by a King will cease in this Kingdom, upon serious consideration of matters and things no temperate man will deny. I am none of those, who build their confidence of its ruin upon pretended prophecies, neither upon judicial Astrology, but by the Star of humane reason, and by comparison of past and present transactions; near guesses are often made, yet I suppose [letting pass remote causes] it will be worth while to consider the infinite successes on the Parliaments side, [for it is not so heathenish as some would have it, in all cases to judge of matters by event] that perclusion of censures by contingencies, must, as I take it be referred or understood with reflection to the fortune or accident, of some particular sights, or singular manageries of some few actions, by party against party, as the Jews against the Philistines; our case is otherwise, and not merely fortunable; for, we have for 7 or 8 years observed how all open force (upon equal congresses) private public stratagems, and machinations, plots and contrivances for moral advantages, carried on many times by persons of extraordinary capacities (Heavens aid being solemnly as in appearance prayed) defections of trusties from the State, or whatsoever else tentations for re●se●ling the late King and his Interest, have been fruitless, and, which is much, by how much more likely any thing was to take effect; God in its prevention and frustration (cassating men's policies) in their height, hath then in such nicks of Time, made bare his arm against it, and notably blasted the managers of such devices.  
It is confessed the calmest of Gentlemen object not impertinently, how all Histories witness, that God hath permitted wicked parties to do great matters against a better cause, slaves say you, have envassaled their Masters, Rebels (such is your language) have slid into Sovereignty: But I am confident no History can parallel our times, observe the difference here, God hath suffered not one party, not the ambition of one man, not sometimes the prevailing indirect party of our Corporate body, to carry on his work; his Divine Majesty hath often by strange alterations done wonders, by those, whom presently again he hath cast of, discerning falsehood from truth rallying up public spirits, when there was inhuman judgement, little hopes of such helps, and in the close, hath set up this new Modellizd army (thought very inconsiderable) which as a cloud hath obscured, by its achievements, as well Martial as Civil, even I say, with a Curtain of terror and obliv on hath darkened all former victories and actions, since this Parliaments first convention: whence it is evident (looking well into things, and persons now at the Stern politic and martial, that they who in your apprehensions, long ago, did hatch these alterations are, if it were so, prevented of their deep and secret hopes, and this present supremacy, or persons acting in it (in respective capacities) called to act but of late, in respect of such old contrivers, could not originally be guilty of such ambitious designs; I am sure small hopes they had in their private capacities of those great honours, and trust, whereunto providence hath now called them, and fastened upon their sholdiers.  
Neither the late Kings, great knowledge, errors or unfortunacy were obtruded upon these Kingdoms by accident, providence also would have it thus, and undone it cannot be, he is a fool that wisheth it.  
It is above me, to dispute, what poor hopes his issue hath actually to were the Sceptre of government here, yet I believe, the Spanish example in 88 will startle many sorreyners, when especially they shall consider our present posture of defence, and offence. We might go backward, and see what the Poor (supposedly Christ's Vicar) could do to England, in H. 8. time upon our politic defection from him. I will not deny, but God may permit us again to be governed by a King, but few examples can be produced of any people, having shaked of that government, over whom Regal interest could presently prevail; that introduction of Kings upon the Romans, after expulsion of their Tyrants, was late, and after many ages. It is fresh in memory how Queen Elizabeth assisted the Hollander against Spain, a thing held lawful then, evinceing thereby that species of government are of a politic, not religious concernment, the mediocrity of Specifical modes of governing, is Analogical, respecting times, persons, and safety of Nations governed. However it is scarce possible for a King to be vested with government here, without an absolute conquest, and that by outlandish mercinaryes, our condition then must be bad enough, we shall pay full dear for a King. When safety outweighs Danger, he is a fool that neglect it, when danger out weighs safety, he is silly that attempteth it.  
What ever Heaven will, must come to pass, leave these things to God, nothing of humane passion can hinder his designs, therefore, come it to pass how it will (as to resetling of pristine interest or not, whereof there is so slender hope) better it is to be a Willow then an Oak. And for our mean carriage, let us not so much examine other men's Religion as our own, sooner, or latter most of you must come to my humour of Reformation.  
But I perceive there is one thing stumbles many Barbatulous Lads amongst you, enough, many think, to foment disaffection, and make any man a Malignant; And that is, a putting down of Stage plays. Altar but the Scene, and many Pulpits will be as whimsically apish to your wild sense; and for sevearer Eires of Gentlemen, the Tragic Comedy of flacessent Tithes, supercilliously acted every seventh day by the Pulpits-demised premises, terribly deploring the but necessary regulating of them, is super excellent: wherein lest you should be wanting that have right of Presentations, I have lately observed, how unable you are. O strong Policy (upon all lapses by God's privation) in preferring a pontifical creature for fear the Respective Parishes should petition for election of their Minister. A thing so reasonable and just, as nothing can be more equitable.  
Thus we show our teeth, & cannot by't, foreseeing not, how easily one lift of the Soldiery can scatter and dismantle that weak excrescent Babel, no hard matter to be done, because already, most Ministers languages are different, and their doctrines like convertible responds of an Oricle. Cease then to wonder, why generally, Ciergy men neigh after new quarrels, and combustions continually yelp and bark against Armies, peace and settlement under present authority, since it is eudent, there is good cause for such excursions, aswell regarding their double malice as policy, their malice against all not crediting their doctrines to be EVANGELICA●LL, (though never so carnal) their policies in begetting troublesome matter for Ephemerideses. or Journal Book, whose matter, dilated upon, is of great effieacy for spinning out discourse, till the hourglass become as empty above of sand as their Brains of true knowledge.  
I beseech you (Gentlemen) be not too much prejudiced against private exercises in Religion, for Charityes sake I will suppose though they (in your judgement) may miss in circumstance, yet there is much of devotion in them. Churches, and houses are alike in themselves, but as they are circumstantiated: And my conscience forces me here to discover, how rational the objection raised by some (no fools) against the more Public and solemn dispensations of Divinity in Churches, is, in my apprehension, viz. We cannot (say they) make answer in the Churches, to false Doctrine delivered, neither soberly rectify an erring spirit. Indeed this objection is subnixt with great reason, for it springs naturally from not less care, for avoidance of disturbation, then fervent zeal of Edification.  
Neither are the main reasons of many men's averseness, and abhorrence from those kind of domestic duties obscure unto me, which are couchible under this fallacy, That Canonical Doctors teach Truth, as it is truth, abstracted, from degrees intensive, in matters of Religion, is (say they) already so dogmatically laid down and made out, that beyond these, or these catechetical or did acticall positions of Orthodox doctrines, there is no plum ultre. this was never denied by me.  
But leave is craved to tell them, Orthodox is a very hard word of digestion, and that want they impose, as to a necessity of some necessary, standing, fixed and perpetual formal administrations, is often but mere deduction logical from Allegorical scriptures, capable of other constructions, beside theirs.  
Wherefore enlightened Saints dare not otherwise believe, but that God, in his infinite wisdom, hath, and ever will reserve (till the common annihilation of earth) many secret truths communicable in all ages, and that in a more transcendent way of light, than what hath been delivered apart aunt, or (as Scholars say) from the antecedent cause, otherwise to what purpose are those commands in Scripture of searching, waiting, etc. otherwise, we should have nothing to do with speculation in Divine matters; and we could have no other work then a common perseverance up jacobs' ladder into Heaven.  
You are not to believe any tenet, because such men have said so, a man's own discretion (from above originally) will be his best guide, in moral and Religious actions, modern Pulpit men will affirm, That most of the Fathers, celebrated for Orthodox Volumes in Christianity, were but so orthodox in a favourable acceptation: I believe they were knowingly religious in those times, yet far inferior in knowledge to many men now a days, so as (not palliating any soul living) In truth I think, there is a possibility of attaining an etherial blessed ubi through Christ, without believing all for necessary truths, which either Synods, or late Churchmen have laid down, as essential to my journey, to a place they know not where, and vainly labour to presine circumscriptively.  
For your deportment in condescension to the formal outward Church and Officers in it, there is no more pendentiall way for rightly fixing you in a possure of indemnity, then in detecting unto your sense, the indifferency of many things obtraded, as that of a basin instead of a Font.  
A Gentleman is not mnch the worse (keeping his Conscience upright) though a Clergy man pronounce him Aheisticall, merely for that he will not rest, either in fallible decisions of any Synod, or inithe urgement of any Individual Presbyter implicitly. Some say, it had been wiser, and easier (reflecting to the erection of the Basin in many Churches) by declaring the indifferency of such circumstantiated decencies as well to Papists as Protestants to have retained discontented men from Separation (as they term it) then in these observing days by altering forms for form, or adding form to Forms, to generate a more quick discomposition against order external, against going to material Churches, which is the most decent and convenient way.  
The best use can be made by wary knowing men, of that and other impositions like it, will be gatherec, by a rational reference unto what I have said or shall say in favour of the present Authority, and their discretion, religiously actuated in cancelling such rigid Statutes, which to much tortured tender consciences, upon pretences of Error, Hernsies', Schism etc. for I have heard very religious and wise men affirm in their judgements, that the tenderness of many in the Parliament was over voted, when in many things prevalent voices to gratify the Synods importunity, silenced at present, others (that had not then liberty to enter dissents) of a contrary judgement.  
Although it hath often repent me for the four pence spent in purchase of the Directory, yet, the honour put upon it by Authorities approbation, made me very ambitious of it for perusal. If you think there was no great worth in that Canon, keep it unto yourselves, let that be (if an error) only the respective single. lapse of your understandings. A dangerous defection it is, for private persons to condemn the Act of a Community.  
Nothing hath done Gentlemen more hurt then a vain resolution against so much as reading over books; Ordinances and Votes of Parliament, only so fear they should be infected (forsooth) with errors (as some peevishly think) both in Church and State, how can men judge rightly, or behave themselves temperately avoiding Rocks and Shelves? If they will not by reading, observe the commands of Authority, the Bend of every party and Interest.  
If (all this notwithstanding) any amongst you, be persuaded that Monarchy will resettle here, and upon that improbable hope, will not compound, when as hitherto the indulgence of Parliament, and their unwillingness to ruin you is evident, let me tell you, such men are the greatest Enemies to themselves, their Children and Families. I wish them wiser, and that Gentlemen would read and observe all Ordinances which concern general goods, so may you know when to act, where to avoid, by respective condescension, concurrence, or giving way, unto the rapid torrent of these nimble days.  
On the other hand, supposing some glimmering of light, and high reason in many of you, formerly more devoted to obsolet forms, shall prompt a Theoretic severe disquisition, or observance what small hope there is of resetling former government; stick not to confess it, that others may instrumentally add more sparks thereto; lest you do utterly discupacit te yourselves (by further vain holding of) from places of trust in the Commonwealth; least inferior men of birth, and breeding engross all places of honourable civil command, and most Gentlemen for ever afterwards walk up and down, like useless Pageants.  
I am confident this advice of mine with the wisest Gentlemen will be well taken, the rather, because. I have ever since the first of this Parliament, lead a private life, never intermeddling with profitable public employment which, it is well known I have been offered, not unbefitting a Gentleman (still contenting myself with a descended competency) how how much I have said, what I have hazarded upon the royal interest upon a principle of apprehended duty then, (not carried on implicitly upon the wings of others discretion) a way very unsuitable to my temper so long as it pleased God to keep it upright in this Nation, yet all this without malice, to the honourable House of Parliament. This by the way remembering, (because it being cleared unto some examiners of my actions, that my engagements were not altogether unsubnixt with a general desire of my Country's liberty, and quiet, and my reason was quadrated into a candid confession upon what discretion: I had waded, upon what I would acquiesce; and not strive against Heaven) I received infinite courtesies from the Army at Colchester Leaguer, and some knowing Gentlemen of Essex Committee, at a time, when I was justly represented as disaffected, which lawful favours challenge from my pen a grateful commemoration.  
A year or two more (Gent.) will habituate the present Government, and then perhaps this council will be thought good by most of you at instant, it is hoped, much prejudice may be removed from these lines; for that this birth is spontaneous, free, voluntary, not brought forth by subtle midwiferv of other men, given by a quiet unsequestred hand, and most affectionate lover of his Native country's peace. Remember then who pretend they had not thought, thank yourselves if too late you cry out ' O utinam. I know your heart; are much sick with expectation deferred, whose fruition (as is most clear) is not esi●ntially necessary to your well being here, and which ought to be the greatest comfort) God can save eternally under any outward politic dispensation. This Paper (let what will come to pass) will bear testimony of my good will towards my fellow gentleman of England's Common wealth.  
Sapientis est in consilio, fortunam semper habere.  
While the scales were equal; nay, while there appeared but a possibility of restoring a King, something of reason and discreet principles, might create in loyal hearts (for not one in twenty engaged merely upon loyalty) a desire and flagrant fervency of acting and managing all seeming opportunities, towards that end.  
But for Men of any breeding, now in this state of things, and pleasure of heaven (not fortune merely for with a Christian there is no such thing as fortune) to talk themselves into discapacity, contempt and misery, for a man, that can neither help himself, nor his followers whose very interest (originally by conquest) is precluded actualy, whose title of guardianship, all men in England confess fiduciary, If ever it had been reduced to real investiture, and could not, cannot much benefit privare persons what ever some please to say, I say for Gent. or others still to continue in Rebelion against reason, is a design either of ignorance, pride, or weak malice.  
Let it suffice we have not (as in a dream) parted with Kingly Government, the world will believe our Nation is generally valiant, let it also understand we are rational; the terror of the one, and notable contemplation of the other may probably startle foreign enemies, from whose violence, who will not pray to be preserved, for preventian of whose intolerable insolencyes, who will not lay out his natural faculties and estate, deserveth neithe: the title of a Gentleman or protection of a Subject.  
Upon the whole matter lastly. Are we either ware of those unavoidable mischiefs, another alteration of Government, usherable in by foreign powers must expose the Bulk of our Nation unto? Or if God afterwards shill resign us up unto the pleasure of any single person (when we will have a King like other Nations) in his judgement for our present discontents and grutching. Are we sensible how farre ingratitude on our parts, for blessings received may seem preparatory for the equity of heaven's decision; and re-assubiecting us under a pretending Lord, from whom for us to crave sobriety in administretion of Justice, will be abstracted impudence? have we relations parental, filial, uxorions? have we fortunes or tranquilityes privations before our eyes? we will certainly confess, as things now stand, some few accidental inconveniences, or at most but temporary, necessary taxations. upon our outward creatures, are fit for an embrace of Christian patience: then a general hazardous exposure, of what we already possess, unto fortunes, (or rather indeed moral indiscretions) Racket.  
If I have flattered myself into these presumptions of advice; or if ignorence or malice can imbody, to undermine the honest tendency of my pen, my judgement (as a man of green years) may happen to make the offence bailable, and the general scandal of our Iron age, shall encourage me, [upon a pious ground no lass then moral policy) to a pitiful respect of undiscerning men; while my severer thoughts (by gods help) persevere in the undoubtedly warrantable consideration of God's providence and charity of forgiving mine enemies, whether ignorant, or envious.   

CHAP. II. Respecting Divines.  
Fare from my Abmition it is, to hunt after infamous reputation, by opposing godly Ministers, the ready way for Putrefaction of a good name; But I will speak my conscience and judgement lest I be apprehended as unmindful of that noble object of eloquence, Elocution, and reason; Wholesome Admo, nition.  
And I must here walk warily, some will say, lest I justly contract the justice of that Sentence, It had been better for me to have had a stone tied about my Nec, and therewith imbulged to be thrown into the Sea. So ready are Clergy men, whether Episcopal, Presbyterial; or Independent, to account themselves Gods special little ones. But the general diseases of all Churches, since there was a Church, changing the Candlestick from one to another, viz. Pride, Ambition, and Covetousness, are as predominant in our Ministers as ever they were in any since Christian Religion was first planted in Europe: else, to what purpose is it, I pray you? Clergy men of the Episcopal strain! that you have so long, so mightily struggled to prove (though weakly God knows) Bishops divine right, and an indispensible necessity of many needless formalities in outward administrations, (extrancous to edification.) Why do you Presbyterians! bustie so vigorously to the disquiet of godly people? and the present Civil government, for settling of a Classical— Presbyterial— and we know nor what— congregational Church polity, the very high road to subject us Laymen to more immediate domination then ever, in religious matters? And why lastly do you (Independent Ministers) exclaim against all order? and cannot or will not discern between Ataxy, and Eutexie? Is it possible any thing can be done any duty performed without some Ceremony? Surely none either moral or sacred.  
The height and extrem'tie of passions, fluctuating between these three, hath rendered all that wear black Coats in some measure contemptible, and to justify their respective quarrels, they pretend these Three principal grounds obliging.  
1. The Episcopal men pretend a necessity of Oaths observation taken at institution and induction; requiring obedience unto their Ordinary.  
2. The Presbyterians are imbosted with the Covenant.  
3. The Independent cries out for liberty of conscience.  
To the first I say again their ordinary, is a non eus, wherefore they are at liberty; they cannot: are not bound to hunt after anninihilations, or sacrifice themselves upon an Altar of impossibility.  
To the second (not mentioning what poor interest of reason the Scottish Nation had to Covenant with us for a Covenant. in imitation of them, who were not long since Feudatory to us, and were never Enfranchised from their homage by a right National concession,) it is I will not say a mere Politic, but a convertible Engine good or not so good, in qualified and unstrained senses: for if we and they swore to maintain Scottish Ecclesiastic government, (take it so Hypothetically) we did not understand what it was, and Doctors of their Church, confess it hath suffered much alteration since its first footing there. If we take it Categorically, admitting they swore (who took the Covenant) to comply to the Polity most agreeable to God's word we nor they can be our own judges therein, it is a thing so purely spiritual. If the Synod could not define which kind of Church government was only imbraceable, their presumption will not differ from a venial sin (if such sins there be) since the putting down of Episcopal government, was only lawful and expedient in order to safety of the Nation, that the best might be set up and men are justified as I take it by a Vote. That no Church government is of perpetual divine right, which did wisely let in satisfactory light for the painful Midwives of Reformation in all and every respective sunctions and callings.  
To the third, what can be said to be truly conscience, unless grounded upon God's word or some necessarily emaning consequence thereof, otherwise (say Divines) how easily will private apprehensions resolve into Error, these are to take care they make not torrid misguided zeal fruitful in production of scuffiers against common decencies, withal remembering that the ground and rise of superstition, was always zeal, zeal is its parent, time its nurse, and cunning Priests its Fomentor. Witness, Rome.  
But i'll resume the first viz. The Episcopal Levites many of whom I confess I honour much for their learning, civility, and breeding, who, were they perhaps well harnessed, would draw in the Lords yoke gallantly, though as they now stand, what mischiefs, mseries, affronts, and abuse●● many of these will redact themselves unto, rather than leave off a Canonical Coat, or a blessed Tassel from their Wastes is wonderful? how vigilant they are to pry into the Vacancy of some blind Qratory about London, or the Country, there with abundant zeal to vent definition doctrine, reasons and use, not missing one of these rare ingredients, lest they should miss of being laid by the heels, and so not be celebrated at the next Tavern for Counter Martyrs, where, having lain three or four days or weeks, they get more useful learning then in all their former Academic disceptations & airy diputes; besides, happily better furnished, at their egress, with humility then before, when afflicted with a piece or two in thefr Pockets.  
Some of these Episco palls Ministers are very ignoramuses and have justly because unfit been evicted, yet these looking big, will speak with a great deal of formal gravity and are by many extolled for learned fellows, whom these Black Coats out presence, with a pontifical kind of deportment. I could never much admire such men, who can neither speak nor write their supposed excellencies.  
If they have any thing in them, it is useless, yet a man must conceit their rests some mighty, invisible wonders in their sculls. And I will hearty confess, this distinction I learned from some Commanders at Colchester Leaguer, unto whose sagacity much is by me owed; in order towards right scanning of men and interests, where I received infinite courtesies from Martial men insomuch that (to many good respect;) my genius preferreth a leaguer far before an university; There was I taught not to adore black gaberdines, more than grey cloaks, there, men's discretions as conquered, conquerors were discovered; and I had just cause to go home with a strong conviction, that there are good Preachers, besides qualified Ministers: But this is a digression.  
The good degree of perfonall love I bear to many ministers of the old stamp, wrings truth from me and my ambition would centre in satisfactions cape, so far see you love yourselves, as be. cometh discreet men, not biased for upholding despotical intercsts in Church policy, fervently zealous for promotion of godliness, in its powerful vivacity remitting state matters to states men; not picking out texts on purpose to give scandal, believe me, it is a very high ofence for men to make Gods precious word seem accessary in procreating sinister excursions. Christ never presidented pragmatic invasions upon public magistracy set over us undeniably by his permissive divine providence; which he will not endure to be pieced out with our own.  
No tongue of man, or Angels can excuse you from contracted scandal by being wedged up, and doting too much upon formality. I see no reason, why the places in the Old testament denoting the Majesty of the material temple, should be strained to elevate the necessity of preaching in our Church, only, for although in Metaphilick reasoning ubieties are explicated with respect to bodies, and therefore, if one ask, where Christ is? an answer is well given, In heaven he is, the apposite answer might have been He sits at the right hand of his Father: for, the first respond. scilicet he is in Heaven, doth rather declare unto us his Majesty, than ubiety, for, circumscriptive or finite ubiety falleth not upon him as God, infinite locality or ubiquity (a divine attribute) is competent to God alone, spirits have it not; why then are you afraid of private exercises in these times, by you termed times of persecution; when as (not despising reasonable Order wherein Room excels all Churches, though otherwise she hath little piety,) yourselves must acknowledge, God is in every place, in houses, in Churches, in fields, and what is spoken: My house is an house of Prayer, must be understood (as to the term, House) in an Allegorical sense, that is, My People being gathered shall pray servently, and I will hear them, the duty is there held forth, not the place prefined to perform the duty in.  
But some will by and by object, that I am a slender Divine, and unfit to teach or tereat of misteryes, beware of proud ignorance, for it i● your vice, who think Laymen unworthy to disquire or examine Parsons more learned Axioms, the spirit of God is not, cannot be concluded in this or that humane qualification, no better expedient for restraining from a spirit of contradiction, and opposition to Public material Churches, then useing or them as indisterent.  
Trouble not yourselves with Species of Government civil, for if government be but exercitium Potestatis, no scruple need be, but that Texts for obeying Magistrates, and that parental clause of the Commandment extending to Governors no less than natural Parents, may be, without impropriety of reason, understood as imposing subservience to present Authority, under which God hath placed us all. Such was due to Caesar.  
The wisdom of Superiors is such, I hope, as will easily forgive former extravagances, whereunto perhaps a vehement persuasion, that God would a continuance of things in Statu quo, made many of your Coat obnoxious.  
And I think, some thing higher, then moral indemnity from want, may reduce the discreetest Episcopal Clergy unto a temperament of silent dissaplause, if not condescension, unto Heaven's pleasure in alteration of Government, and that is, an hope for liberty to preach God's word; A felicity (if truly valued) by vain spurning against Horns of Authority, precluded yourselves and us, who desire to profit by you? Wherefore the Scope of that gayneable hope (in discretion quickly, perponderating any moral dislikes in public transactions) will one day (believe it) at the great Tribunal be called upon because slightingly neglected, and opposed to all foolishly perverse Ministers, who because, they may not be suffered in their Pulpits meddling, with what concerns them not to meddle withal, will render themselves uncapable to preach at all, interring many times their rich Talents in the Orbs of their own Brains. A sin against the Holy Ghost.  
Neither are you to doubt, but the State will reunite and fix you (upon compliance) as members of our Corporate body of England and Ireland in such a way, as shall cancel all rears of imposing extraordinary disfavours upon men of former disaffection; so may all former necessary severity used towards Ecclesiastic persons be turned into a more sweet aspect, whereunto all Subjects are generally invited in the neat, and weighty closure of their Declaration of the causes moving the Parliament to alter the government; whereupon further it will follow, that it may be also easy for such or you (not scandalous in life) to be vested with Cure of Parishes wanting able Pastors, and if it be adjudged expedient Tithes be taken away from Ecclesiastic persons, it is probable your interests being parochially fixed, will be subnixt with proportionate shares in any new more equal establishment of provision for a Godly Ministry.  
This counsel will appear more rational, when God shall give you grace to consider, that the old Clergy (acting in a perseverance of contumations vain struggling against Authority) unawares wracks it self, upon those shelves of mischievous rebellion, where from, it hath unthankfully sweat for deterring of others seven or eight years together: for what Rebellion is comparable unto that of rational creatures against reasons aymiable indictions, against that light of moral, and natural preservation, whose radiant lustre shining in our souls, commandeth every man (where Gods glory or Religion come not immediately into competition) to reserve himself for Christ's service, in his due time calling men either as Ministers, or Martyrs?  
Object. I know it will be quickly replied what hope is there of true Religions flourishing, or increase of godliness under this present government.  
Answ. My Answer is (though not well understanding wherein true Religion is placed by many men perhaps) experience common of most powerful piety free from sordid formality, and unlimited looseness pregnant in this Kingdom, may sufficiently anticipate that needless objection: Many men may be produced of different judgements, touching government civil, yet with a blessed harmony together aiming at the fruition of Christ.  
But a more immediate estoppel will this following be. God in his eternal prescience knows well, what forms of Civil Administrations [in order to men's sins clogging respective ages of the world] are fittest, for making out his own glory, and dissipating those congested mountaius of Form, whose politic contrivances (as to linking of carnal personal interests, with prentensions of piety) must be unraveled, before Christ's second coming, that all things may alternately stoop unto the sceptre of his power.  
The pregnancy of which light is abundant satisfaction evincing thereby unto many discreet men, the necessity of putting traditional maxims of unqualified or qualified Monarchy in suspension or abeyance (as Lawyers call it) of, I say acquiescing under present Civil Supremacy, because, if there be no accessaries in high and lowest offences, they fear to be made principals in occasionally obstructing God's design (a very high offence) perpetrated ignorantly oftentimes by holy and good men, where, upon a sudden dereliction of good spirits from them, for their trials here below, but a little space, they walk darkly under a Carnal Veil until again rightly fixed into penitential contemplations, by God's sole indulgence.  
Besides, admitting as some would have it, a kind of necessity of Kingly Government (an error sufficiently refuted) for dispute sake, straining a moral precept of obedience unto that in an especial regard, the concession thereof will instantly expire in reason's bosom; because that last mentioned dispensation (if a tye unto Monarchy were created by any moral or Judaic precept (only proper unto Jew's Monarches) is just fiable according by way of Letter) where founded upon rules of inevitable necessity that necessity, being clear, absolute present, certainly yours and all subjects cases in England at present, through permissive providence atleast, if not conservative.  
God may yet bring the Episcopal Ministers into a fight of their defections. which with all my soul I wish, & am drawn into a be, lief, that one reason why their prayers hitherto have little prevailed to extricate them from eminent vexations; is; for that they have prayed too much with a limited love unto themselves, how idle and impolitic a stratagem your persuasions of the People, that certain sacred Levitical debts are due from lay people, payable towards Ecclesiastic establishment, who seethe not? the rout can no longer be haltered with groundless terrible fears of spiritual censures; so much hath the Apostles order for Excommunication been abused to good men's grief, and the great discomposition of necessary order, indeed you may blame yourselves, if palpable weaknesses on Ministers parts have let ordinary capacities understand, the Parson's anger is not as the breath of God's nostrils, leave off supercilious frowns in preaching, time may wear out many inconveniences, no more wholesome way for Episcopal Clergy men, than an humble undistracted perseverance, in edifying themselves, and others in the doctrine of penitence for what's already passed, (reflecting upon their scambling positions about government) and a final and judicious Resolution of following the dictates of providence for the future, which I leave to your timeous consideration.  
By this time it may justly be expected, I should deliver some things, as well of discovery as admonition, to the Presbyterian Ministry, who (being generally of a Pharisaical temper, ambitious of terms of frothy honour) are indeed so much the more inexcusable in their ordinary; defections, by how much they have enjoyed peace, quiet and repose (three cardinal enemies unto flatuous hypocondriac passions) yet bustling with restless endeavours for imposition of such an outward Church-policy as may adequate Ministerial command, unto magistratical, and make state-policy dependent upon Eclesiastick humorous influence.  
These cry out, The Army hath deceived them, nothing so for the Soldiery, by qualifying Presbytery, and granting moderate faculties unto men of tender Consciences, hath preserved them from sliding into potential tyranny over the very souls of men.  
The more often Presbyterians echo out expostulations, against Martial men, that, they have preached the soldiery into a Capacity that but for them, the work could not have gone forward that, they, in a word are ungratefully dealt withal, doubtless a more serious black scandal, by such ingeminations daily is contracted unto the discontented Authors of such carnal repercussions; for, if they did preach the Soldiery into a capacity, it was either a good work in them, or a bad one: I a good one, their rewards are in Heaven, if indeed never so good in itself, yet, their ends in preaching, might make it bade as to them, they might dream after temporal dominion; no man ought to do evil (that is against his conscience) that good may come thereof. I dare not charge them with Hypocrisy, Avarice or Ambition, yet if most probably men discern the bent of immanent actions, by several out go, and it be no sin for us to judge, where God hath judged before us O Presbyterian Ministers. Your unquenchable desires of fat Benefices, linking some times two or three competencies together, removing from place to place; familiarly slighting flocks destinated unto your charge, aiming at an art in Preaching, are shrewd Symptoms of carnal hearts, of God's imminent displeasure over you; and that it may justly be suspected, you are not prefined men for setting up instrumentally God's design, in parity of Reformation.  
The greatest discretion I ever observed in you, is, that how ever generally men of plausible consciences yet are you all blessed with restraining grace: not a man (for all the great noise) that I hear of will venture Sequestration for meddling with State affairs in Pulpits. I would you would as well leave of private instillations into men's heads about the Covenants obligation; and against necessary liberty of conscience, since; why we should dance after a Scottish Kirk for a government, (when it is notably disputed whether Christ will be pleased any formal polity should be obtruded on his Saints) no good reason can be given, God's word (as a touch stone) being subnexed unto that clause in the Covenant. It is a known sin with Civilians, for a man to perform any Oath comporting in 'tis performance, damage to Religion, Justice, and the Common wealth, and I dare appeal unto your own consciences, whether your former Doctrines for seven years together, did not condemn restrictions put upon consciences? whether private exercises were not then by you highly magnified? whether quenching of the Spirit (which may well be understood as in forcing of Consciences) were not marked out as an almost unexpiable sin? Lastly, whether your out cry against Tyrannical forms, obtrudable upon consciences, were real in those days or no? If real, you are the main and greatest defectors from just principles, if not real, and that such Doctrines were politicly delivered, only out of a secret wicked ambition by serving times upon hopes (in unhappy conjuncture of affairs) of obtaining Episcopal preventions, and fat benefices, thence fostering clat cularaymes (with your Scottish Brethren) gradually to divide with Laymen, even in disposition of Civil administrations: those designs were inconsistent with Ministers of Christ.  
In sadness let me tell you (Learned Pastors) admitting you talked hearty, and had no such sinister ends, you are at present unhappily subjected unto blame on all hands; how justly God knows, and some of your consciences can well assign reasons why, God should in justice retaliate upon you, that contempt, Presbyterian Ministers put upon others of the same function, divided only from them in opinion about Church government, unto the lamentable miseries of which wretched Episcopal men, many of you (to your eternal shame be it spoken) added a full cup, by substracting the fift part (allowed by the mercy of the Parliament) from their Wives and Children. O unparalleled cruelty! O heathenish irreligions, Authority knew it not just, for innocent Women and Babes to be ruined, for their Father's heady extravagances, and our most just Creator makes it good often on Earth, that misery finds lovers of other men's miseries out.  
It is no Paradox for me to say unto you (sad Christians) your mischief and disrespect is from yourselves. The best advice I can give unto the Pulpit demised premises, will be, that for future they would bear such a proportionable respect unto other men's consciences, unto other men's pledge, of God's love (their Wives and Children) as they desire Heaven should bear unto them this will be their best mean towards recovery of their lost reputation, this their principal antidote against scandal; especially in these days, wherein many say (not regarding rules of contraries) there is no such thing as error for, if (say they) the greatest Divines are divided in judgement about matters of faith, the strongest Lawyers differ about what is Law, what not, and most sapient Statesmen, are plunged in their own devices; we cannot believe their is any such thing as eror, because we know not the truth; If no error, no sin, what follows? no God, no hell. A strange world we live in, and of these wild extravagances in sin, which ground such vanities, it seems Clergy mens general inconstancy arrogance ambition and malice are fomentors, whereupon a modern Poet taking it ill to be branded with the name of an Atheist by a Presbyter, hath Satirically descanted in this following Rith. micall Poem.  

Satyrus de Caco-presbyteris  

I Am jam subtristis increbuit Echo,  
Dummodo Presbyter, egregius praeco.  
Me dixit Atheismi totum Integrale.  
Ostendens suo pectore multum in esse mali.  
Sin illud verum ratione facias,  
Agam tibi (Face dotule) gratias.  
Contra miraturus cum sit rumor altus  
Doctores Synodo evasisse per Saltus  
Jam dudum: remanes tu Dulmanus,  
Insulsus Juvenis, at multum scurra Canus.  
Quid te miles odit, ridentque Generosi;  
Handquaquam cluat esse aliquid monstrosi:  
Quatews diu C●e um● obstruxisse pacem  
Christianam recte fertur, ac Martis esse facem:  
Qui nisi suum polleat interesse stabilire  
Memphitticum, garrit, Reformatio non in fieri est,  
Populumque jugum Christi saluberrimum  
Contempsissie brave, et expetere terrimum  
Libertatis Vadum; male Judependentem  
Chymaeram adhinire verum minime advertentem.  
Vah! jam tandem Laici didicere verum,  
Nigra vestimenta minns esse Dei Clerum;  
Religio cujus est solummodo formalis,  
Sit aeque pium Decimare quam ludere cum talis.  
Subridet porro purior Ecclesia Sanctorum,  
Presbyterum tenere aedhuc ambitum terrenorum,  
Praeferentem Evangelio, ubique predicabli,  
Rostrum (qua tale) valde quidem amabile  
Apostatieae Stigmate crudeliter percutit  
Private excercentes, premeditata diffint.  
Quale docent passim Seraphici Doctores,  
Sibique datum Coeli distribuere rores.  
Infra muros spiritum impie circumscribunt  
Ac vastis abdominibus decimas imbibunt.  
Hi ne Coeli liminis fiunt Clavigeri?  
Nil minus, Sathanae potius Scutigeri.  
Ergo ne credas (lector] Omnipotentem  
Hos reformandi velle causam contigeutem?  
Heraclitus ad terras rediens Cothurnalis.  
Rideret ad conspectum Presbyteri parochialis;  
Episcopatum versus dum succussaret lipide,  
Illudque Christi regimen predicans intrepide.  
Cur Po idorns olim Volsoeam sit notatus,  
Quod primus Angliae Sacerdotum grassabat Sericatus?  
Volseos mille dabo, crudelis Polidorus  
Tantum in Cardinalis vitium sonorus,  
Praelati nomen prae Regali positio, 
Ego & Rex meus.   
Lege comparatus, sibi vix vertetur vitio.  
Confidunt nostri quatenus Spurcitijs tentare  
Duris formalitatibus Christum concatenare.  
Seeurt nunquam Sancti pia fraude satis,  
Sacerdotibus usa Frock-butroniatis.  
Quid queso? none Rumour divino jure niti  
Ecclesiae nullum Regimen, det medecinam liti?  
Evincat saltem minime Sacerdotes decere,  
Altercationes strenuas in statu commovere.  
Compede sed faederis Albanici ligantur  
Haud 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 conscientijs mandantur.  
Sit modo praecox votum modo fides rescindenda  
Temere suscepta, ac Pelinodia concivenda.  
Quis inde regno hactenus extitit necon ior  
Pateat, Presbyter vel Episcopus confidentior,  
Conscientias ligari, high quoque dicunt vitium,  
Independentes obtrectantes, nec non et Comitium:  
Atqui, ut Catholice zelus hic inclaruit,  
Ad votum salubre Parliamenti subito disparuit:  
Hinc misere confrendunt, nescientes praedicare;  
Vetantur quia Plebem titillitio dementare  
Presbiteriali, ac Species regnandi  
Rostro definire, sub Poena Sequestrandi.  
Latratus partim lividus confraenatur protinus,  
Recessus pertinacia coactus, et serotinus.  
Accessit terror Panicus, horum livor flaccescit,  
Sedantur multo Malignantes, Reformatio crescit,  
Recente pergant Ephori incude collimare  
Ebullientes Cleri linguas, si vellent Regnum stare.   
If there be any biting truths in this Poetry or Latin Rithms, Ministers must take in good part (if good they be) for it doth not touch them. As for the spiritually proud Minister (that white Devil of our age, and disturber of our quiet,) It matters not three pence, how he understandeth them. If the Vanity of Preachers have not discomposed this Kingdom much of late, and ruined others heretofore, let all men judge. But the piety of some humble Churchmen, (who have wisely unfettered themselves from earthly cares, and do quietly preach (in season, and out of season) true sound Christianity, without mingling State-affairs into their dispensations, I always judge it necessary to hear and imitate; and am very glad even of late the Parliament hath (for the unprejudicing of many) declared, they will maintain a Godly diligent Ministry; unto whose dictates (because men) though we must not wholly resign up our discretions in Religious matters; yet will every quiet spirit (for their gifts sake) give encouragement, and defer triple respect unto them.    

CHAP. III. Respecting Lawyers.  
I Am now at last come to speak some thing unto the Lawyers of England, men of mine own profession; who I know generally will take it ill for any unwinged Gownsmen, to be pretendedly wiser then Law. And I also (confessing myself a mere Lime or Hackney of the Law) am not much fledged with an Apprehension, that I can speak half so much Law as reason.  
The Theoretic part of England's Law (though in some things defective, in other redundant) I honour, especially for that I believe it wisely distributh real inheritance, and uprightly devolves descents, whereof also Authority hath said they resolve a permanence, upon former foundations, which decision my reason teacheth. I do not slight or trench upon, when I endeavour a candid representation of errors in Superstructive practice: that must of necessity challenge from piously disposed Governors a timely discontinuance, and alteration, where inconveniencies and mischiefs are Epidemical.  
The great fluttering noise as well old practizers in the Theory, with Almond Trees on their formal Crowns, as puny Clarks will make, about known Axioms, Maxims, custom, practice, and Motheaten Records is such, that it hath startled most men, desirous of a more compendious, succinct, and expeditious passage and decision of litigious debates. But I well hope, my contemptible vessel will not split upon those lofty, towering Rocks.  
However, this I dare affirm. It is the great mystery under which our Laws are Couched, and the Barbarity of that corrupt Latin and Norman language, have amused many into a strong fancy of the excellency of our proceed in suits.  
No small wonder it appeareth unto me, men should so much dote upon actions of our Ancestors in times of Popery when (if it be well observed) few laws were free from pontifical influence, that they cannot see the healing of present Supremacy is wanting, for reforming things in practice Religious, and Civil.  
Time, heth drawn a vail, cunning heads have fomented, and Interested parties alternatly have fixed a great and seemingly good reputation upon erroneous transactive practices, in actuating the most necessary and ordinary projects of our municipial Law! endless Maeanders, length and nicety of pleading formality perching above equity and sometimes plain distinguishable justice, have rendered very Law itself odious: whereunto if we subjoin, that most Just captations may be taken against proceed, in our chargeable Chancery, Reason will back our assertions.  
Many wise men have thought (regarding how a perfection in distributive Justice is, or aught to be the scope of every law) it were proper and convenient for the Subject of England, If the same judge, at the same time (with the Juries consent) might definitively correct strictness of law, together with his pronunciation directly, where men's positive laws have with all humane possible care provided against probable contingencies, whereby some times, a 150 orders might be spared both Plaintiff and Defendant and suits no more entailed in Chancery from generation to generation For, it is an ordinary thing in our Coure of Equity, for a cause to spin out 8. years before it can come to an hearing.  
Others have quarrelled as much, saying that it is less reason for law proceed (if any reason at all) to be in Latin, than chancery Bills, because of the great danger to a Client in missing form at Common law. But these my great Masters at law, can, if they please determine: were not men besotted to horrible avarice, and Apes to one another's wickedness.  
Some may suppose I speak by rote, when I shall affirm twenty years are not sufficient, to learn the practice of one Attorney in; so full of variety is law practice, and indeed head Officers in Courts make it upon the matter what they please, no vivacity of wit can reach the Vanity of Forms in reasonable time, these Mysteties make the Subject more miserable (truly we may say it) than those Nations whose laws are unwritten, For, upon the niceties and intricacies of Headings are hatched demurrers, 
See Basilicon Doron lac. Regis pag. 90 lib 2.  a device merely to spin out money and time, such exceptions being mostwhat taken to formal defects, not material, and though the party's meaning be evident, a misplaced word or mistaken sentence shall cancel all done before.  
Men of slenderest capacities discern, how much plaintiffs are favoured in our Courts. And strangers admire at the Multitudes of Men depending upon legal matters here in England I believe there are at least ten and ten thousand qualifyed Officers at law in England, reckoning upon a true account, beside running solicitors infinite, this most superfluous brood (maintained only by prosit arising by Law) is generated not through defect in the fun damentall part of our law, neither doth it require such Multiplicious managery, were the ways and means tending unto the just ends of law explained smoothed made right and shortened; for prevention of which ambages, and circuit in actions these two rules are very (in my poor judgement) expedient as a preparatory to more.  

1. That the general Issue, be pleaded in all actions.  
2. That good Costs be Ordered upon unjust Suits. and judgement for them presently awarded.   
The Attorney will instantly cry out. What then shall become of all our Precedent Books? if the general issue be pleaded? It were very hard if a People should generally suffer for fear they should make their precedents useless.  
The like will Counsellors allege, when thousands of Fees in a term shall be saved by General Pleas.  
Thus (lawyers) you seek a preservation of your own Interest in the distemper of our whole Nation.  
As the Case now stands, he that hath the weightiest purse many times carries away the Bell, right or wrong. for any man may bring Error upon Error, even in personal Actions, and men are tired out with seeking for their own.  
A man may outlaw his Neighbour for a cause, or without a cause: the remedy against the Sheriff is troublesome, and most-what, worse than the disease: the grounds of these proceed I know, but they are damnably abused: Sheriff, cry out as much against Chequer men's abuses not without reason.  
No uninterested man can plead for continuance of these, and forty worse inconveniences, which may in due time be represented. Attorneyes would get more money, I am sure more honestly, if practice were contracted: for as things are, needless, lazy, standing Officers, Monopolise making up a process, and transactions, Attorneys lay out their money (getting it again with curses in the Country) while trudging up and down they can get (besides cutting and making, or sharpening good hand-bills) but ten groats a Term. In so much, that it is now as essentially necessary for an Attorney, to be a good footman; as not to have a soft place in the hinder part of his head.  
And who will not stand amazed, that is not a corrupt Lawyer., when it shall be truly told him the mystery of an Attorneys trade is greater than that of a Counsellor? That the smallest actions trial will cost at Westminster six or seven pounds (where shall a poor man have it?) That men must pay Fines for liberty to enter Actions by original writ? that money must be paid in the pound for damage laid, and damage clear? that one Court never gives less than forty shillings costs upon judgements by default, or consent, the other seldom more (but when finable) then Twenty. That Allegories are ordinary in Law suggestions, both in cancellarian and legal proceed. That by laying an Imaginary Mutuatus, a man may bring an action for a shilling in the Courts at Westminster? That the same costs are given where the Damage to the Plaintiff appears not to have five shillings as where the Plaintiffs prejudice was forty times, as considerable? That, a petty legal Tyranny is hourly exercised by foreign North, and Western Attorneyes, by reason of the distance of the places from London. But time will not permit, let these hints suffice at present, till more leisure, to remonstrate, how necessary Law Reformation is, and how fare from an happy and well ordered Polity England's Administration is, till these things be reduced into order, and pragmatic busy Lawyers, whether qualified or unqualified, be restrained from taking advantage of these laxations in the practic managery of Law. Authority cannot do all at once: wise men know every Commonwealth is judged by what is commonly and ordinarily done; and it is a very hard thing to prove Common Barrators. Is there any man so senseless to think it a sin, that either that Law against them, or any other Law humane be corrected, usage is an Ass, when time comes in, umpire of practice, Laws are canceled, when obsolete, or noxious, soft, or cruel, disconstitutionall, or idle for a people; when organically they are imperfect, and self Ministers accidentally (though good) of bad manners.  
In order whereunto to make out my assertion domestically: lest I should seem to owe more unto the nimble wits of these days, then unto that great reason (without vanity be it spoken) I am able to bring for translating our Laws into the English tongue. I will here declare my well wishes, that it might not any longer be locked up in an unknown Barbarism, or impectorated with a few.  
The dangers conting ible in possibilty must be rare by its Englishing, the advantages very considerable, when (being reduced from her lose expatiated volumes under Alphabetick divisions) she shall wed an English Government of simple lustre.  
This is the way to put her into a capacity of winning her causeless Enemies unto obedience of her just sanctions; she will then, more clearly evidence (being a little reform by competent hands) it was ever and is still in part, her Midwives either nescience, corruption, or retchlessenesse, which hath hitherto caused many of her Children to grow Ricketty. In her the cause is not, yet are not her grey hairs signs of perfect wisdom:  
Men talk of moral Equity, right, Freedom's from Ty●ranicall usage; I dare maintain it, until every one, as an English man, may freely read his duty in English, and look into that which must regulate his deportment, and interest Civil (not representable by Statutes) and thereby discern the necessity of some times admitting particular mischiefs, rather than general inconveniences: Vain have been, ever will be all arguments or pretensipreferring respective discretion of precedent, present, or future Lawgivers. Thus may the Reason of Law be cleared; and upon what grounds, prudence and respect unto moral equity, of judaic laws, laws of England are founded.  
Neither is it ever expectable vulgar heads can be reduced from general prejudice against our Laws, while they are looked upon as inconsiderable or unfit objects of Pity; and no expedient laid, for their satisfaction in their just Cavil against Law language, that Relic and badge of our Norman slavery.  
I can admit the current of that Objection, viz That ordinary men will not be much wiser for its translation: But certainly it is impertinent, for they will be better satisfied, if not with the reason of the Law (because perhaps they cannot reach it) yet will this Cordial refocillate their spirits, because then, it shall lie in their own Powers to be their own Counsellors.  
Besides, it may be well supposed upon Englishing of it, the people will not so much murmur and repine at judgements, and decisions given in Courts of Justice: When as all along both plaintiff and Defendant may tract with much facility those paths, wiser heads have chalked out for preservation of Common right, and reciprocal justice between parties.  
They are mistaken who say ignorance is the Nurse of Civil devotion. Englishmen naturally disgust or slight things placed above them. Every man is not bred a Scholar, or book earned, what if the Mases have been favourable un to him? employments of many men will not afford them time for studying the craggy Language of our law, upon this ignorance is an Epidemic vice.  
And yet I have not known more unhappy men in suits, then mere Scholars, for they looking upon general rules of Equity only, can hardly be drawn (till they are well smarted for their Scholastic presumptions) into a belief of the wholesome composure of our Laws fitted in their position, aswel unto adequate reason of natural right, as appropriated most part unto the constitutional bent of our Nation: upon this anvil of causeless discontent and prejudice it is true, occasion is improperly taken and Ministers hearty threaten Attorneys, as brambles in the State, because, our bills are neither by them intelligible nor legible, in that, they are unreasonable.  
All arts have their forms, terms. Lawyer's theirs. It is said a Parson lately preached this doctrine. That his parishioners ought to observe, Court hand was an Idol, and God would dash Lawyers for all their dashes, But at such we smile,  
As violent on the other hand are Councillors, and most attorneys against all military men, who dare speak plain English, and petition for Reformation in Law practice. These men consider not, being wedged up with present forms, how most of our laws in England had military grounds for their begetting. And thus much my Discretion teacheth me, to affirm impartially; Many of the Governing part of the present Army, are blest with extraordinary Reason, far beyond most of our learnedest Ply-baggs. It matters not from whom our help floweth if we get cure of civil Distempers, and from their endeavours it is most likely to proceed If I mistake not.  
I perceive that a strong fancy pessesseth most Lawyers of a necessary single Governor, whom they always (vainly enough) looked upon in his politic Capacity as an immortal Deity. But that is a mere fiction, like the houses in astrology.  
I desire to be resolved how a parliament could order the succession of the crown of England from Hen 6. to Edw. the 4th. upon breach of a Condition; if a condition be an Hereditament. Henry the 6th was in by descent from Hen. the 5th, Edw. the 4ths' entry was tolled, yet (by that Parliament at the end of H. the 6th. reign and beginning of E. 4th. judged lawful, where was the King in the interval of H. and E? These are babbles for a man to think upon seriously, for that paradox of the immortalities of Kings and Bishops here, is actually resolved to annihilation.  
All States and Potentates are taught by natural reason to engage their subjects into obedience.  
The present new engagement must not be judged any innovation or cruel Obtrusion, but rather a careful indulgence for safety of the whole, complecting every man's exactible duty, lest any should pretend ignorance of that duty, for actuating whereof, to wholesome ends, he is designed. This every man will believe convenient, whose Brains are not disturbed with the QVEEN OF WATER'S influence; and our immediate rivulets of dangerous honour, need not much complain or curse their fates, FOR BEING SUBJECTED TO THE LAW; since upon their own stock of exhalations, reshowred down, they for a time survived their fountain; and may yet run a more direct course in another Region, if they please, or can stoop to Providence.  
Neither hath the Common Lawyer above all men, any cause to repine at present fixing of our State, for that his craft or mystery is preserved intine, his road toward subsistence the same, only it may seem reasonable, in lieu of that felicity, he should rightly value it, and inform where Reformation of abuses is most wanting.  
For mine own part, having (with a good intention) composed these papers: I must beg leave in one word, by way of preventing prejudice, to Apologise, lest my advice herein given, or any representation obvious unto my scope, should be unworthily apprehended as savouring either of pride, base ends, or partiality: for what ever I have written to those three forementioned qualifications of Gentlemen, Divines, or Lawyers, my request is, should be understood, as an efflux upon exigence of Method proposed: not that I any way undervalue others, whether Merchants, Tradesmen, Mechanics or Yeomen, nay not the more low sort of men, because to my sense, every respective part of these are equally as considerably useful in our Common wealth, and it is civility makes a Gentleman deboystnesse a Clown, and son of the earth, my Prayer unto God shall be, that all men (setting aside frothy Titles) would centre their ambitions in him, who is alone able to reduce certainty, peace and rest in this unsettled humorous age: an acquiescence in his providence will dispel Melancholic perturbations: when all Physic besides must pray a little upon the natural Spirits of the Body, that will compose the Soul, and set the turmoiled creature free from all possibility of miseries, dangers, and fears. As for the Species of Magistracy (in its abstracted essence with Heaven in variable) yet as to men alterable in all ages, the less private persons unhinge their brains in consideration of it. certainly their night rests will be more quiet— But,  

Caelum ipsum petimus stultitia, neque  
Iracunda Jovem ponere fulmina patimur. Horat,   

We shoot at Stars, and vainly aim to stop  
Jove's Thunderbolt, as 'tis about to drop.   
Such is the presumption of this age, that men sin advisedly in swallowing up general freedoms by special interests; some are as preposterous in hurrying the wheels of Reformation to fast down hill, dangering the very Axletree of its whole carriage, as others are to Curious in avoidance of shallow rakes, wherein she cannot sink deep; others say a Sledge without wheels may serve a Lady of her condition that will (they think) convey her from Constable unto Constable well enough, and time enough for any necessity, or haste there is of her progress.  
The honest well affected Country man who thinks all things can, or should be perfected with one Swap, now the King is gone, may seem to be the first, with whose not well guided reason, perhaps a few discontented private persons amongst our Army may jump also.  
Next those, will follow the temperate mere Divine in the second resemblance, and as subservient unto him, a Brace of his best Parishioners (commonly old Gentlemen; good huntsmen) these could be content with a Reformation, But are afraid of her looks, and necessary attendance.  
Into the last resemblance, Lawyers must most properly be redacted Analogically, ours is, say they, a profession, and it can be no sin for a man to follow his calling: But I fear, to take issue with Heaven upon a dispute, that for the maintenance of their families, and for avoiding the Character of one of Paul's Infidels in not providing for our charges, we traced corrupt practices, will at God's tribunal, prove a very sleeveless allegation, when Madam Justice shall file in Heavens most Christian Court, a provocation against fac simile Clerks, where I say, acquaint protestations by way of exclusion, shall not hinder taking issue upon the whole matter, no Jurisdictions of a Court incapacitated can be pleaded; no errors alligned afterwards, in a word no essoign nor imparlence can be admitted. While we persevere in screwing rigour of general laws, up to the height of injury, we are a burden unto our fellow Subjects, we weaken the esteem of the common-lawes wholesome constitution, and mainly suffocate possibilities of felicities attingible by the public, we hand Reformation from one to another, bewilder our selus, and hazard our future safety.  
But integrity is the best policy, and as a Lawyer lately upon another occasion did affirm: That all the lawyers in England could not make one case law, which was not reason: so let us vanimoufly pray our practice may be regulated in its exorbitances by reason, and vindicated from those many just aspersions it groaneth under, lest though the bread of deceit be sweet our mouths may afterwards be gravelled.  
For present, My thoughts are no longer mine own. This corollary caution I shall leave unto all sober men of the three qualifications prereflected upon, That they would well consider how dangerous a New Representative may prove, till Ireland be fully reduced, and people fixed into a better sense of their Duty: regarding that no wise Neighbouring Nations will commend in us, a disimpowring experienced men from winding up their long labours into a Bottom, whose honours, lives, and fortunes are reciprocally involved in the extreme diffusion of Policy for general safety: It is our defection from present Patriots all discontented parties attend, as their last and secret stratagem for our further disquiet; which sad consequence, after so vast expense of blood and treasure may concern every discerning spirit to deprecate.   
FINIS.