THE MARTYRDOM OF DR. THOMAS CRANMER, Archbishop of Canterbury.

 

 

 

 THOMAS CRANMER, descended from an ancient family, was born in a village called Arselacton, in Nottinghamshire. He was kept at school from his infancy, and in process of time went to the University of Cambridge, where he took the degree of master of arts, and was chosen a fellow of JESUS College. He afterwards married a gentleman's daughter, and by that means lost his fellowship. He then became reader in Buckingham College. Whilst he continued there, his wife died in child-bed. After her death, the masters and fellows of JESUS College, desirous again of their old companion, for his learning, chose him again fellow of the college. Here he prosecuted this study, and became, in a few years after, reader of divinity lectures in the same college; and was in such special esteem with the whole university, that the degree of doctor of divinity was conferred upon him. He was commonly appointed one of the heads, to examine such as commenced either bachelors or doctors of divinity.

 

 Dr. Cranmer, ever favouring the knowledge of the Scripture, would never admit any to proceed in divinity, unless they were substantially read in the Bible; by means whereof certain friars, who were principally brought up in the study of school authors, were commonly rejected by him; so that of the religious sort he was much hated, and had in great indignation. And yet, divers of them being thus compelled to study the Scriptures, became afterwards well learned and well affected; insomuch, that when they proceeded to be doctors of divinity, they could not overmuch commend Dr. Cranmer's goodness towards them, who had for a time put them back, to aspire unto better knowledge and perfection.

 

 He was greatly solicited by Dr. Capon to have been one of the fellows in the foundation of cardinal Wolsey's college in Oxford; but he utterly refused. Whilst he continued in Cambridge, the great cause of king Henry the Eighth's divorce came in question. This was many ways, for the space of two or three years, diversly disputed and debated. At length it happened that Dr. jCranmer, by reason that the plague was in Cambridge, resorted to Waltham-Abbey, to one Mr. Cressey's house there. In the mean time, the king came from London to Waltham for a night or two, whilst his household removed to Greenwich; by means whereof, Dr. Stephens, secretary, and Dr. Fox, almoner, lodged in the house of Mr. Cressey. Here all the three doctors met together. Dr. Stephens and Dr. Fox marvelling at Dr. Cranmer's.being there, he declared to them the cause; namely, That the plague was in Cambridge. As they were old acquaintance, so the secretary and the almoner well entertained Dr. Cranmer; and minding to understand his opinion concerning the king's cause, they conferred with him thereon. Dr. Cranmer answered, That he could say little to the matter, for that he had not studied it. Notwithstanding (he said,) that, in his opinion, they made more ado in prosecuting the ecclesiastical law than needed. " It were better, as I suppose, (quoth Cranmer,) that the question, Whether a man may marry his brother's wife, were discussed by the divines, and by the authority of the Word of GOD, whereby the conscience of the prince might be better satisfied, than thus from year to year to prolong the time; and that may be as well done in England, in the universities here, as at Rome, or elsewhere, in any foreign nation."

 

 The next day, when the king removed to Greenwich, he called unto him Dr. Stephens and Dr. Fox, saying unto them, " What now, my masters, shall we do in this infinite cause of mine I see by it there must be a new commission procured from Rome, and when we shall have an end, God knows." Dr. Fox said to the king again, " We trust that there shall be better ways devised for your majesty, than to travel as far as Rome any more." The king being very desirous to understand his meaning, said, " Who hatli taken in hand to instruct you any shorter way" Doctor Fox replied, " It chanced us to be lodged at Waltham, in Mr. Cressey's house, the other night, where we met with Dr. Cranmer, an old acquaintance, with whom having conference concerning your highness's cause, he thought the next way was, to quiet your majesty's conscience, by trying your highness's question out by the Word of GOD, and thereupon to proceed to a final sentence." The king said, " Where is this Dr. Cranmer Is he still at Waltham" They answered, ithat they left him there. "Many, (said the king,) I will surely speak with him, and therefore let him be sent for out of hand. I perceive that that man has the sow by the right ear. And if I had known this device but two years ago, it had been in my way a great piece of money, and had also rid me of much disquiet-ness."

 

 Whereupon Dr. Cranmer was sent for, and being removed from Waltham, a post went for him. But when he came to London, he began to quarrel with his acquaintances, that he by their means was thus troubled and brought thither to be cumbered in a matter he had not studied; and therefore entreated them that they

 

would make his excuse in such sort, that he might be despatched away from coming into the king's presence. They promised so to do, but all was in vain; for the more they endeavored to excuse Dr. Cranmer's absence, the more the king chid with them, for that they brought him not out of hand to his presence: so that no excuse serving, he was obliged to come to the court unto the king; whom the prince accepting, demanded his name, and said, " Were you not at Waltham such a time, in the company of my secretary and almoner" Dr. Cranmer affirming the same, the king said again, " Had you not conference with them concerning our matter of divorce now in question" " That is right true, if it please your highness," quoth Cranmer. " Well, (said the king,) I perceive you have the right scope of this matter. You must understand, that I have been long troubled in conscience, and now I perceive that by this means I might have been long ago relieved. I command you, (all your other'affairs set apart,) to see this my cause furthered according to your device, so that I may shortly understand whereunto I may trust. For this I protest, before God and the world, that I seek not to be divorced from the queen, if by any means I might justly be persuaded that this our matrimony were not against the laws of God. I could be right well contented to remain with her, if it would stand with the will and pleasure of Almighty God."

 

 Dr. Cranmer much excusing himself, besought the king to commit the examining this matter by the Word of GOD, unto the best learned men of both his universities, Cambridge and Oxford. " You say well, (said the king,) and I am well content therewith. But yet nevertheless, I will have you specially to write your mind therein." And so calling the eurl of Wiltshire to him, he said, " I pray you, my lord, let Dr. Cranmer have entertainment in your house at Durham-Place for a time, to the intent he may be there quiet to accomplish my request, and let him lack neither books, nor any thing requisite for his study." And thus after the king's departure. Dr. Cranmer went with my lord of Wiltshire to his house, wherein he wrote his mind concerning the king's question; adding to the same, besides the authorities of the Scriptures, of general councils, and of ancient writers, also his opinion, which was this, " That the bishop of Rome had no authority to dispense with the Word of God." When Cranmer had wrote the book, and committed it to the king, the king said to him, " Will you abide by this that you have written, before the bishop of Rome" "That I will do, by God's grace", (quoth Cranmer,) if your majesty send me thither." " Marry, (quoth the king,) I will send you to him in a sure ambassage." And thus, not only certain learned men were sent abroad, to most universities io CHRISTendom, to dispute the question; but also the same being by commission disputed by the divines in both universities of Cambridge and Oxford, it was there eon-eluded, li That no such matrimony was by the Word of God lawful." Whereupon a solemn ambassage was sent to the bishop of Rome, wherein went the earl of Wiltshire, Dr. Cranmer, Dr. Stokesley, Dr. Carne, Dr. Bennet, and divers other learned men and gentlemen.

 

 When the time came that they should come before the bishop of Rome to declare the cause of their ambassage, the bishop sitting on high in his cdoes of state, and in his rich apparel, with his sandals on his feet, offering his foot to be kissed by the ambassadors; the earl of Wiltshire disdaining thereat, stood still, so that all the rest kept themselves from that idolatry. The bishop after that, without any further ceremony, gave ear to the ambassadors. They offered to prove, That no man ought to marry his brother's wife; and that the bishop of Rome ought not to dispense to the contrary. Divers promises were made, and sundry days appointed, wherein the question should have been disputed, and when our part was ready to answer, there appeared no man to dispute in that behalf. So in the end, the bishop making to our ambassadors good countenance, dismissed them without disputing.

 

 Whereupon the earl of Wiltshire and the other commissioners returned home. Dr. Cranmer went to the emperor, to answer such learned men of the emperor's council as could say any thing to the contrary part. Where, amongst the rest, was Cornelius Agrippa, an high officer in the emperor's court, who having private conference with Dr. Cranmer, was so fully satisfied in the matter, that afterwards there was never disputation openly offered to Dr. Cranmer. He had conference with divers learned men of Germany, concerning the said question, who very ambiguously heretofore conceiving the cause, were fully satisfied by him.

 

 Just at this time, Dr. Warham, archbishop of Canterbury, died; which dignity was immediately given to Dr. Cranmer; who in the execution of this high office, well answered the rule laid down by St. Paul: First, A bhhojt must be faultless, as becometh the minister of God. To accomplish this precept of the apostle, this worthy man evermore gave himself to continual study, not breaking that order that he in the university used; that is, by five o'clock in the morning he was at his book, and spent the time in study and prayer till nine; he then applied himself (if the prince's affairs did not call him away) till dinner-time, to hear suitors, and to despatch such matters as pertained unto his special charge; committing his temporal affairs unto his officers. So that such things were never impediments either to his study, or to his pastoral charge, which principally consisted in the reformation of corrup.t religion, and in setting forth true and sincere doctrine. For the most part, being in commission, he associated himself with learned men for sifting one matter or other, for the profit of the church of England. By means whereof, he was never idle; besides that, he accounted it needful to bestow one hour of the day in reading over such works and books as daily came from beyond the seas. After dinner, if any suitors were attendant, he would very diligently hear them, and despatch them in such sort, that every man commended his lenity and gentleness, although the case required that sometimes divers of them were committed by him to prison. That done, he went again to his ordinary study, at which he for the most part stood, and seldom sat; and there continuing till five o'clock, bestowed that hour in hearing common-prayer, and walking, or using some honest pastime till supper-time. At supper, if he had no appetite, (as many times he would not sup,) yet he would sit down at the table, entertaining the company with such fruitful talk as did much delight the hearers; so that by this means hospitality was well furnished, and the alms-chest well maintained for the relief of the poor. After supper, he would consume one hour at least in walking, or some other honest pastime, and then again till nine, at one kind of study or other. So that no hour of the day was spent in vain, but the same was so bestowed as tended to the glory of GOD, the service of the prince, or the profit of the church. Which bestowing of his time procured to him a good report of all men, to be, in respect of other men's conversation, faultless, as it became the minister of God.

 

 Secondly, it is required, That a bishop should not be stubborn. With which kind of vice, without great wrong, this archbishop in no wise ought to be charged; whose nature was such, that none was more gentle, or sooner won to an honest purpose; especially in such things, wherein by his word, writing, counsel, or deed, he might gratify either gentleman or nobleman, or do good to any mean person, or else relieve the needy and poor. Only in causes pertaining to God or his prince, no man more constant, or more hard to be won; as his earnest defense in the parliament-house, above three days together, in disputing against the six articles, can testify. And, as touching his stoutness in his prince's cause, the resistance of the duke of Northumberland against him, proved right well his good mind that way. Hence he would not consent to the dissolving of chanteries, till the king came of age, to the intent that they might then better serve to furnish his royal estate, than to have so great treasure consumed in his nonage. Which his stoutness, joined with such simplicity, was thought, by divers of his council, a thing incredible, especially in such sort to contend Avitli him, who was so accounted in this realm as few or none durst withstand him. So dear to him was the cause of GOD, and of his prince, that for the one he would not keep his conscience clogged, nor for the other hide his head. Otherwise, his very enemies might easily entreat him; and such things as he granted, he did without any upbraiding or reward; so that he was altogether void of the vice of stubbornness, and rather culpable in too much facility and gentleness.

 

 Then followeth, Not angry. If overmuch patience be a vice, this man may seem to offend rather on this part, than on the contrary. Few we shall find, in whom the sayings of our Savior CHRIST so much prevailed, as with him; who would not only have a man to forgive his enemies, but also to pray for them; that lesson never went out of his memory. For it was known that he had many cruel enemies, not for his own deserts, but for his religion's sake. And yet whosoever he was that sought his hurt, either in goods, estimation, or life, and upon conference would seem never so slenderly to relent or excuse himself, he would both forget the offence committed, and also ever afterwards friendly entertain him, and show such pleasure to him, as by any means possible he might; insomuch that it came into a common proverb, " Do my lord of. Canterbury an injury, and you may be sure to have him your friend while he liveth." Of which his gentle disposition in abstaining from revenge, amongst many examples, I will repeat one.

 

 An ignorant priest in the north, a kinsman of one Chersey, a grocer, dwelling in London, (being one of those priests that used to study more at the alehouse, than in his chamber, or in his study,) sat on a time with his honest neighbors at an alehouse in his own parish, where was communication in commendation of archbishop Cranmer. This parson said, " What make you of him He was but an hostler, and has no more learning than the goslings that go yonder on the green." These neighbors, not well bearing these his unseemly words, articled against him, and sent their complaints to the lord Cromwell, then vicegerent in causes ecclesiastical; who sent for the priest, and committed him to the Fleet, intending-to have him recant his slander at Paul's-Cross. Howbeit my lord Cromwell, having great affairs in hand, forgat his prisoner in the Fleet. So that this Chersey, understanding his kinsman was in the Fleet, for speaking words against my lord of Canterbury, consulted with the priest to make suit, rather unto the archbishop for his deliverance, than to the lord Cromwell. The matter was moved. The archbishop sent for the said Chersey. When he came before him, Chersey declared, that there was a kinsman of his in the Fleet, a priest of the north country, and as I may tell your grace the truth, (quoth Chersey,) a man of small civility, and of less learning. He has continued in durance above two months, so that this imprisonment consumeth his substance, and will utterly undo him, unless your grace be his good lord. " I know not the man, (said the archbishop,) nor what he has done, why he should be thus in trouble." Said Chersey again, " He has offended your grace, as may be perceived by the articles objected against him;" the copy whereof the said Chersey exhibited to the archbishop, who perusing the same, said, " This is the common talk of all the popish priests in England against me. Surely (said he) I was never made privy to this accusation." Then he sent to the warden of the Fleet, willing him to send the prisoner unto him, with his keeper, in the afternoon.

 

 When the keeper had brought him to Lambeth, the archbishop demanded, what was the cause of his being committed to the Fleet The parson answered, Certain malicious parishioners had wrongfully accused him of words which he never spoke. Chersey hearing him, said, " You dastardly dolt and varlet, is this thy promise, that you madest me Are there not a great number of thy honest neighbors' hands against thee, to prove thee a liar Surely, my lord, (quoth Chersey,) it is pity to do him good. I am sorry I have troubled your grace thus far with him." " Well," said the archbishop unto the parson, " if you have not offended against me, then I have nothing to do with you, but you may go from whence you came." The priest then fell on his knees, and said, " I beseech your grace to forgive me this, offence, assuring your grace, that I spoke those words being drunk." " Ah, (said my lord,) this is somewhat, and yet it is no good excuse; for drunkenness uttereth that which lieth hid in the heart. However, now you are sober, I am content to commune with you. Did you ever see me, or were you ever acquainted with me before this day" The priest answered, that never in his life he saw his grace. " Why then, (said the archbishop,) what occasion had you to call me an hostler and say, I had not so much learning as the goslings If I have no learning, you may now try it; therefore, I pray you oppose me, either in grammar, or in other liberal sciences; or, if you are a divine, say somewhat that way." The priest being amazed at his familiar talk, made answer, “I beseech your grace to pardon me. I am altogether unlearned, and understand not the Latin tongue, but very simply. My only study has been to say my service and mass, fair and deliberate, which I can do as well as any priest in the country, I thank God." " Well (said the other,) if you will not try me, I will be so bold to try you, and yet as easily as I can, and that only in the history of the Bible: tell me therefore, who was king David's father" The priest paused a while, and at last said, " In good faith, my lord, I have forgotten his name." Then said the archbishop, " Pray tell me who was Solomon's father" The priest made answer, " Good my lord, bear with me, I am no further seen in the Bible, than is daily read in our service in the church." The archbishop answering, said, " Common reason might have taught you what an unlikely thing it is, that a prince, having two universities within his realm, of welt learned men, and desirous to be resolved of a doubtful question, should send out of his realm an hostler, being a man erf no better knowledge than is a gosling, in an embassage to answer all learned men, both in the court of Rome, and the emperor's court. God amend you all, forgive you, and send you better minds." With these words the priest seemed to weep, and desired his graee to pardon his fault, so that by this means he might return to his cure again, and he would recant those his foolish words before his parishioners, and become a new man. Well, (said the archbishop,) so had you need; and giving him a godly admonition to keep from the alehouse, and to bestow his time in reading the Scriptures, he dismissed him from the Fleet.

 

 It follows, no striker, no fighter. From which kind of vice, the nature of this archbishop was so far, as was his doctrine which he professed, and death which he suffered. After the prohibition of these aforesaid vices, succeedeth the mother of all virtues necessarily required of all true Christians, but chiefly of a spiritual prelate, which is,

 

 Not given to filthy lucre. The contrary whereof was so odious unto St. Paul, that he esteemed the same no less than idolatry. How little this prelate was infected with this vice, all people that knew him, as well learned beyond the seas, and on this side, to whom yearly he gave no^ small sums of money; as others, both gentlemen, mean men, and poor men, who had in their necessity, that which he could conveniently spare, lend, or make, can well testify. And albeit such was his liberality to all sorts of men, that no man did lack whom he could do for, either in giving or lending; yet nevertheless such was again his circumspection, that when he was committed by queen Mary to the Tower, he owed no man living a penny, but satisfied every man to the uttermost; whereas no small sums of money were awing him of divers persons, which by destroying their bills and obligations, he freely forgave, and suppressed before his attainder. Insomuch, that when he perceived the end of king Edward, he called for his officers, his steward, and others, commanding them in any wise to pay where any penny was owing, which was out of hand despatched. And then he said, " Now I thank GOD, I am mine own man, and with God's help, able to answer all the world," which some men suppose he might also have avoided, if he -would have been counselled by some of his friends. It followeth morever. 

 

 But given to hospitality. So little was this property lacking in him, that some men misliking the same, thought it rather a house of overmuch lavishing. Yet some, on the contrary part, complained of his spare house, much under the state of his revenues. Of which two, the first sort should have considered the causes which moved him to that liberal and large kind of expenses. Wherein were to be considered, the time wherein he served; which was, when the reformation of religion began. In which time the whole weight of the same most chiefly rested on his hand. During which season, almost for the space of sixteen years together, his house was never unfurnished of a number, both cf learned men and commissioners, appointed from time to time, for deciding of ecclesiastical affairs. And thus as he seemed to some over-large and lavishing, more than needed in hospitality; so on the other side there wanted not some, of whom he was accused to king Henry for too niggardly house-keeping.

 

Sir Thomas Seymour, knight, of the privy chamber, having a convenient occasion, declared to the king, that my lord of Canterbury did nothing else but sell his woods, and let his leases by great fines, making havoc of all the royalties of the archbishopric, and that only to the intent to gather up treasure for his wife and children, keeping no manner of hospitality. Within a fortnight after, one day his highness going to dinner, said to the said sir Thomas, " Go you out of hand to Lambeth, unto my lord of Canterbury, and bid him be with me at two o'clock in the afternoon." Sir Thomas straightways went to Lambeth, and as he came to the gate, the porter came out, and conveyed him to the hall, which was throughly furnished, both with the household servants and strangers, with four principal tables of officers, as daily it was accustomed to be. When sir Thomas Seymour saw that stately large hall so well set and furnished, being therewith abashed, and somewhat guilty of an untruth told to the king before, he retired back, and would needs have gone to the archbishop of Canterbury by the chapel, and not through the hall. Richard Nevel, gentleman-steward of the household, perceiving that he retired, came unto him, and after gentle entertainment, demanded of him, whether he would speak with my lord, or not Sir Thomas said, that he must needs do so from the king's highness. Sir, said the steward, you cannot go that way, for the door is fast shut in the dinner-time; and so by gentle means brought him up to nay lord's chamber through the hall, who then was at dinner: with whom he dined after he had delivered his message, whose ordinary fare might well beseem a right honorable personage. When dinner was scarce done, sir Thomas took his leave of my lord, and went again to the court.

 

 So soon as the king saw him, he said to him, " Have you been with my lord of Canterbury" He answered, " That I have, if it please your majesty, and he will be with your highness straightways." " Dined you not with him" said thejking. " Yes, sir, (said he,) that I have done." And with that word, whether he espied by the king's countenance, or by his words, any thing tending to displeasure, he straightway kneeled down upon his knee, and said, " I beseech your highness to pardon me: I do now well remember, that of late I told your highness a great untruth concerning my lord of Canterbury's housekeeping; but from henceforth I intend never to believe that person which did put that vain tale into my head: for I assure your highness, that I never saw so honorable a hall set in this realm, (besides your majesty's hall,) in all my life, with better order, and so well furnished in each degree. If I had not seen it myself, I could never have believed it, and himself also so honorably served." " Ah, sir," quoth the king's highness, " have you now espied the truth I thought you would tell me another tale when you had been there. He was a very varlet that told you that tale; for he spends all that he has in house-keeping. Let no other bishops bestow their revenues worse than my lord of Canterbury doth, then shall you have no cause to complain of their keeping of house." In this archbishop this moreover is to be noted, touching the relief of the poor, impotent, sick, and such as then came from the wars at Bullen, and other parts beyond the seas, lame, wounded, and destitute: for them he provided, besides his mansion-house at Beckisburn, in Kent, the parsonage barn, well furnished with lodgings for the sick and maimed soldiers. To whom were also appointed the almoner, a physician, and a surgeon to attend them, and to dress and cure such as were not able to resort to their countries, having daily from the bishop's kitchen hot broth and meat; for the common aims of the household were bestowed upon the neighbors. And when any of the impotent recovered and were able to travel, they.had convenient money delivered to bear their charges.

 

 Now follow together these virtues, One that loves goodness, sober-minded, righteous, holy, and temperate. As concerning these qualities, the manner of his life, joined with his benign and gentle disposition, testify that he could not be void of these virtues reigning in him, who was so abundantly adorned with the other.

 

Then concludeth St. Paul with the most excellent virtue of all other to be desired in a prelate. For if this constancy be not in him to this end, that is, To cleave fast unto the true word of doctrine, that he may be able to exhort with wholesome learning, and to reprove them that speak against it: if he be void, I say, of these gifts and graces, he is worthy of no commendation, but must seem a deceiver of the world. Neither shall he deserve the name of a bishop, if either for dread or reward, affection or favor, he do at any time, or in any place, swerve from the truth. In this behalf the constancy of the archbishop shrunk not for any manner of storm. He was many ways tried, but neither favor of his prince, nor fear of his indignation, nor any other worldly respect, could change his purpose, grounded upon that infallible doctrine of the gospel. Notwithstanding, his constant defense of God's truth was ever joined with such meekness toward the king, that he never took offence against him.

 

 After the apprehension of the lord Cromwel, when the adversaries of the gospel thought all things sure now on their side, ten or twelve bishops, and learned men, joined together in commission, came to the archbishop for the establishing of certain articles of our religion, which the papists then thought to win to their purpose against the archbishop. For having now the lord Cromwel fast, they thought all had been safe: as indeed there was no manner of hope that religion reformed should stand one week longer. Of all those commissioners, there was not one left to stay on the archbishop's part; but he alone, against them all, stood in the defense of the truth; and those that he most trusted to, namely, bishop Heath, and bishop Skip, left him in the plain field. Yet God so wrought with the king, that his highness joined with him against the rest, so that the book of articles passing on his side, he won the goal from them all, contrary to all their expectations. After that day, there could neither counsellor, bishop, nor papist, deprive him of the king's favor.

 

 Notwithstanding, not long after that, certain of the council attempted to move the king against him, declaring plainly, that the realm was so infected with heresies and heretics, that it was dangerous for his highness farther to permit it unreformed. The enormity whereof they could not impute to any, so much as to the archbishop of Canterbury, who, by his own preaching, and his chaplains, had filled the whole realm full of divers pernicious heresies. The king would needs know his accusers. They answered, That forasmuch as he was a counsellor, no man durst take upon him to accuse him; but if it would please his highness to commit him to the Tower for a time, there would be accusations and proofs enough against him. The king granted them that they should the next day commit him to the Tower. When night came, the king sent sir Anthony Deny about midnight to Lambeth to the archbishop, willing him forthwith to resort unto him at the court. The-archbishop speedily came into the gallery where the king walked, and tarried for him. His highness said, " Ah, my lord of Canterbury, I can tell you news. For divers weighty considerations it is determined by me, and the council, that you to-morrow, at nine o'clock, shall be committed to the Tower, for that you and your chaplains, (as information is given us,) have taught and preached, and • thereby sown within the realm such a number of execrable heresies, that it is feared, the whole realm being infected with them, no small contentions and commotions will arise thereby amongst my subjects.

 

 When the dug had said his mind, the archbishop kneeled down and said, " I am content, if it please your grace, with all my heart, to go thither at your high-ness's commandment, and I most humbly thank your majesty that I may come to my trial; for there be those who have many ways slandered me, and now this way I hope to show myself not worthy of such report." The king perceiving the man's uprightness, joined with such simplicity, said, " O Lord, what manner of man be you! What simplicity is in you! I thought that you would rather have sued to us to have heard you and your accusers together. Do you not know what state you be in with the whole world, and how many great enemies you have Do you not consider what an easy thing it is to procure three or four false knaves to witness against you Think you to have better luck that way than your master, CHRIST had I see by it, you will run head-long to your undoing, if I suffer you. Your enemies shall not so prevail against you. Yet, notwithstanding, to-morrow, when the council shaJl sit, and send for you, resort unto them, and if they do commit you to the Tower, require of them, because you are one of them, that you may have your accusers brought before them without delay; and if no intreaty will serve, then deliver unto them this my ring, and say unto them, If there be no remedy, my lords, but that I must needs go to the Tower, then I appeal to the king's own person by this his token unto you all."

 

 On the morrow, about nine, the council sent a gentleman usher for the archbishop, who, when he came to the council chamber-door, could not be let in; but of purpose was compelled there to wait among the pages, lackies, and serving-men. Dr. Butts, the king's physician, resorting that way, and espying my lord of Canterbury, went to the king, and said, My lord of Canterbuiy, if it please your grace, is well promoted: for now he is become a lackey, or a serving-man; for yonder he has stood this half hour at the council chamber-door amongst them. " It is not so, (quoth the king,) I know the council has not so little discretion as to use the metropolitan of the realm in that sort, specially being one of their own number. But let them alone, (says the king,) and we shall half more soon." Anon the archbishop was called into the council chamber, to whom was alleged as before is rehearsed. The archbishop answered in like sort as the king had advised him; and in the end, when he perceived that no manner of persuasion or entreaty could serve, he delivered them the king's ring, revoking his cause into the king's hands. The whole council being thereat amazed, the earl of Bedford, with a loud voice, confirming his words with a solemn oath, said, " When you first began the matter, my lords, I told you what would come oi it. Do you think that the king will suffer this man's finger to ache Much more, (I warrant you,) will he defend his life against such babbling varlets. You do but cumber yom-selves to hear tales and fables against him." And so upon the receipt of the king's token, they all arose, and carried the king his ring, surrendering that matter into his own hands.

 

When they were all come into the king's presence, his highness, with a severe countenance, said unto them, " Ah, my lords, I thought I had had wiser men of my council than now I find you. What discretion was this in you, thus to make the primate of the realm, and one of you, thus to wait at the council chamber-door amongst serving-men You might have considered that he was a counsellor as well as you, and yqu had no commission of me so to handle him. I was content that you should try him as a counsellor, and not as a mean subject. But now I well perceive that things be done against him maliciously, and if some of you had your minds, you would have tried him to the uttermost. But I do you all to wit, and’ protest, that if a prince may be beholden unto his subject," (and so, solemnly laying his hand upon his breast, said,) " By the faith I owe to GOD, I take this man here, my lord of Canterbury, to be of all others, a most faithful subject untc us, and one to whom we are much beholden. Therefore, my lords, take him and well use him, as he is worthy to be, and make no more ado." Upon which every man took the archbishop by the hand, and feigned a reconciliation with him, which he courteously accepted.

 

 All wise men would have thought that it had been mere folly afterwards to have attempted any matter against him; but yet, not long after, sir John Gostwike accused the archbishop openly in the parliament-house, laying to his charge his sermons preached at Sandwich, and his lectures read at Canterbury, containing, he said, manifest heresies. Which accusation came to the king's ear. "Why, (quoth the king,) where dwells Gostwike As 1 take it, either in Bedfordshire or Bucking-hamshire: and has he so open an ear that he can hear my lord of Canterbury preaching out of Kent This is very likely! (said the king.) If he had been a Kentish-man, there had been something worthy of consideration. As for Gostwike, I know him well enough. Go to him, and tell him, (said the king to one of his privy chamber,) if he go not to my lord of Canterbury, and reconcile himself unto him, I will pull the gosling's feathers so, that hereafter he shall have little lust to slander the metropolitan." When sir John heard these words, there was no need to bid him haste to Lambeth. When he came to the archbishop, he was obliged to disclose unto him the occasion of his unexpected visit, requesting his clemency to be his good lord, or else he was utterly undone. Which suit was soon won at his hand. So the archbishop casting behind him all sir John's acts of ingratitude, went to the king, and" obtained for sir John his prince's favor again. And thus the king made a short end of this accusation.

 

 And yet, soon after, it was procured by his ancient enemies, that not only the prebendaries of his church in Canterbury, but also the most famous justices of the peace in the shire, should accuse him. This accusation was delivered to the king by some of the council* When the king had perused the thing, he wrapped it up, and put it in his sleeve; and finding occasion to solace himself upon the Thames, came with his barge, furnished with his musicians, along by Lambeth-bridge, towards Chelsea. The noise of the musicians provoked the archbishop to resort to the bridge to do his duty, and to salute his prince. Whom, when the king perceived to stand on the bridge, he commanded the watermen to draw towards the shore, and so came straight to the bridge. "Ah, my chaplain, (said the king to the archbishop,) come into the barge to me." The archbishop declared to his highness, that he would take his own barge, and wait upon his majesty. " No, (said the king,) you must come into my barge, for I want to talk with you." When the king and the archbishop were placed by themselves, said the king to the archbishop, " I have news out Kent for you, my lord." The archbishop answered, " Good, I hope, if it please your highness." " Marry, (said the king,) they be so good, that I now know the greatest heretic in Kent;" and with that he pulled out of his sleeve the book of articles against both the archbishop and his preachers, and gave it to him, desiring him to peruse the same. When the archbishop had read the articles, it grieved him much. Notwithstanding, he kneeled down to the king, and besought his majesty to grant a commission to whomsoever it pleased his highness, to try out the truth of this accusation. " In very deed, (said the king,) I do so mean; and you yourself shall be chief commissioner, to adjoin to you such two or three more as you shall think good." " Then it will be thought, (says the archbishop,) that it is not indifferent, if it please your grace, that I should be mine own judge." " Well, (said the king,) I will have none other but yourself, and such as you will appoint. • Whom will you have with you" " Whom it shall please your grace to name," says the archbishop. " I will appoint Dr. Belhouse for one; name you the other, (said the king,) meet for that purpose." " My chancellor, Dr. Cox, and Hussey, my register, (said the archbishop,) are men expert to examine such troublesome matters." " Well, (said the king,) let there be a commission made forth, and out of hand get you into Kent, and advertise me of your doings."

 

 They came into Kent, and there they sat about three weeks. But Dr. Cox and Hussey, being friendly unto the papists, handled the matter so, that they would permit nothing material to come to light. This thing being perceived by one of the archbishop's servants, he wrote to Dr. Butts, declaring, that if the king did not send some other to assist my lord, it were not possible that any thing should come to light: and therefore Avished that Dr. Lee, jor some other, might be sent to the archbishop. Upon these letters, Dr, Lee was sent for to York by the king; and having the king's mind declared unto him, he resorted straight into Kent; so that on All-hallow even he delivered to the archbishop the king's ring, with a declaration of his highness's pleasure. He appointed the archbishop to name twelve or sixteen of his officers and gentlemen, to whom he gave in commission from the king to search both the chests and chambers of all those that were suspected to be of this confederacy.

 

 These men, thus appointed, went in one hour to the persons' houses; and within four hours afterwards the whole conspiracy was disclosed, by finding of letters, some from the bishop of Winchester; some from Dr. London, at Oxford, and from justices of the shire; with others. So that the first beginning, the proceeding, and what should have been the end of their conspiracy, was now made manifest. Amongst others, came to my lord's hands, two letters, one of the suffragan of Dover, and another of Dr. Barber, a civilian, whom the archbishop continually retained with him, as a counsellor in the law, when need required. These two men being well promoted by the archbishop, he used always in such familiarity, that when the suffragan, (being a prebend of Canterbury,) came to him, he set him at his own table.

 

 When my lord had gotten these their letters, he, on a day, when it chanced the suffragan to come to him to his house at Beckisburn, called to him into his study, the suffragan of Dover, and Dr. Barber, saying, " I must have your advice in a matter." When they were in his study, he said tolthem, "You twain be men in whom I have had much confidence and trust: you must now give me some good counsel, for I am shamefully abused with one or two, to whom I have showed all my secrets from time to time, and I did trust them as myself. They have not only disclosed my secrets, but also have taken upon them to accuse me of heresy. I require therefore your advice how I shall behave myself towards them. You are both my friends, and such as I always have used when I needed counsel." "Marry, (quoth Barber,) such villains were worthy to be hanged out of hand, without any other law." " Hanging were too good, (quoth the suffragan,) and if there lacked one to do execution, I would be hangman myself." At these words, the archbishop cast up his hands to heaven, and said, " O Lord, most merciful GOD, whom may a man trust now-a-days There was never man handled as I am; but, O Lord, you have evermore defended me, and lent me one great friend and master, (meaning the king,) without whose protection I were not able to stand one day, therefore I praise thy holy name." And with that he pulled out of his bosom their two letters, and said, " Know ye these letters, my masters." They fell down upon their knees, and desired forgiveness; declaring, how they a year before were tempted to do the same; and so weeping and bewailing their doings, besought his grace to pardon them. " Well, (said the gentle archbishop,) God make you both good men: I never deserved this at your hands; but ask God forgiveness, against whom you have highly offended. If such men as you are not to be trusted, what should I do alive I perceive now, that there is no fidelity or trust amongst men. I am brought to this point now, that I fear my left hand should accuse my right. 1 need not much marvel hereat, for our Savior CHRIST truly prophesied of such a world to come in the latter days. I beseech him, of his great mercy, to finish that time shortly:" and so departing, he dismissed them both with gentle words, in such sort, that never after appeared in his countenance, or words, any remembrance thereof.

 

 When all those letters were found, they were put into a chest, the king's majesty intending to have perused some of them, and to have punished the principals of the affair. But quickly after ensued a general pardon, and so nothing Avas done. This was the last push against the archbishop, in king Henry's days; for never after durst any man move matter against him in his time.

 

 In the time of King Henry, it seemed that Cranmer was not rightly persuaded in the right knowledge of the sacrament. But shortly after, he being more confirmed^ by conference with bishop Ridley, took upon him the defense of that whole doctrine, and wrote five books thereon. These bishop Gardiner answered; to whom the archbishop of Canterbury learnedly and copiously replied. Besides these books, divers other things there were also-of his doing: as the book of the reformation, the catechism, with the book of Homilies, whereof part was by him contrived, part by his procurement approved and published. Whereunto may be adjoined another writing and confutation of his, against 88 articles by the convocation devised and propounded, but yet not ratified nor received in the reign of king Henry 8.

 

 Afterwards king Edward falling sick, when he perceived his death was at hand, bequeathed the succession of this realm to the Lady Jane, by the consent of the council and lawyers of the kingdom. To this, when all the nobles and judges had subscribed; they sent for the archbishop, and required him also that he would subscribe. But he, excusing himself, said, That he had sworn to the succession of Mary, as the next heir. The council answered, That they were not ignorant of that, and that they had conscience as well as he. The archbishop answered, That he was judge of no man's conscience, but his own: and therefore, as he would not be prejudicial to others,. "so he would not commit his conscience unto other men. And as concerning subscription, before he had spoken with the king himself, he utterly refused to do it. The king being inquired of by the archbishop concerning this matter said, That the nobles and lawyers of the realm counselled him unto it. He then, demanding leave of the king, that he might first talk with certain lawyers that were in the court; when they all agreed, that by law of the realm it might be so; returning to the king, with much ado, he subscribed.

 

 When Queen Mary came in, the rest of the nobles, paying fines, were forgiven, the archbishop of Canterbury only excepted. Who, though he desired pardon,

 

(by means of his friends,) could not obtain it; insomuch that the queen would not once vouchsafe to see him. For as yet the old grudge against the archbishop, for the divorce of her mother, remained hid in the bottom of her heart. Besides this, she remembered the state of religion changed; all which was imputed to the archbishop.

 

While these things were in doing, a rumour was in all men's mouths, that the archbishop, to curry favor of the queen, had promised to say a dirge mass, after the old custom, for the funeral of king Edward, her brotheF. And some reported, that he had already said mass at Canterbury. This rumour, Cranmer thinking speedily to stop, gave forth a writing of purgation. Of this divers copies were taken, and some of them coming to the bishops' hands, they sent one to the commissioners, and so Cranmer was commanded to appear before them; and to bring a true inventory of all his goods. That done, a bishop of the queen's council, being one of the said commissioners, after the inventory was received, said, " My lord, there is a bill put forth in your name, wherein you seem to be grieved at the setting up the mass again; we doubt not but you are sorry it is gone abroad." To whom the archbishop answered, " I am sorry that the bill went from me in such sort as it did; for I intended otherwise to have made it in a more large and ample manner, And to have set it on Paul's church-door, and on the doors of all the churches in London, with my own seal joined thereto." And he declared further, That if the queen pleased, he, with Peter Martyr, and some others, would, in open disputation, maintain the doctrine taught in the time of king Edward, against all persons whatsoever. At which words, when they saw the constancy of the man, they dismissed him; affirming, they had no more at present to say unto him, but that shortly he should hear further. So that in the November following, (which was not long after,) he was sent to the Tower, and soon after condemned of treason. Notwithstanding, the queen, when she could not honestly deny him his pardon, seeing all the rest were discharged;’ and especially, seeing he, (last of all other,) subscribed to king Edward's request, and that against his own will, released to him his action of treason, and accused him only of heresy; which pleased the archbishop right well, and came to pass as he wished, because the cause was not his own, but CHRIST's. Thus stood the cause of Cranmer, till at length it was determined by the queen and council, that he should be removed from the Tower to Oxford, there to dispute with the doctors and divines of both universities.

 

 Accordingly, April 1O, 1554, he was conveyed thither, with Dr. Ridley and Mr. Latimer, and confined in the common gaol, called Bocardo. On Saturday, April 14, all things being in readiness, and the commissioners, who sat at the disputation of bishop Ridley and Latimer, being met, archbishop Cranmer was first called for, who was presently brought in by a number of bill-men. As soon as the reverend archbishop came before the commissioners, he reverenced them with much humility. Then the prolocutor, sitting in the midst, in a scarlet gown, began with a short preface in praise of unity, and especially in the church of CHRIST; declaring withal his bringing up, and taking degrees in Cambridge, and how he was promoted by king Henry, and had been his counsellor, and a catholic man; but of late years had separated himself, Ky teaching and setting forth erroneous doctrine; and therefore it pleased the queen to send them of the convocation, and other learned men, to bring him to this unity again, if it might be. Then he showed him how the convocation had agieed upon certain articles, whereunto they willed him to subscribe. The archbishop answered, That he was very glad of unity, forasmuch as it was the preserver of all commonwealths, as well of the heathen, as of the Christians. And that he should rejoice in it, so it were in CHRIST, and agreeable to his holy word* The prolocutor caused the articles to be read to him> (which were the same that were proposed to Ridley and Latimer,) and asked if he would subscribe to them. The archbishop read them over three or four times, and said, They were all false, and against God's holy word: and therefore he would not agree, he said, in that unity with them. Which done, the prolocutor, first willing him to write his mind on them that night, said moreover, that he should dispute upon them; and caused a copy of the articles to be delivered him, assigning him to answer * thereto on the next Monday; and so charged the mayor with him again, to be had to Bocardo. The archbishop was greatly commended of every one for his modesty j insomuch, that some masters of arts were seen to weep for him, who in judgment were contrary to him.

 

 On Sunday, Mr. Harpsfield preached at St. Mary's, at nine o'clock. After the sermon, they all went to dinner to Magdalen College. They supped at Lincoln College with the prolocutor, whither Dr. Cranmer sent his answer upon the articles in writing. On Monday, the 16th, Mr. Say, and Mr. White, notaries, went about in the morning to the colleges, to get subscriptions to the articles. And about eight o'clock, the prolocutor, with all the doctors ar>i the vice-chancellor, met together at Exeter College, and so they went to the schools: and when the vice-chancellor, the prolocutor, and doctors were placed, Dr. Cranmer came to the answerer's place, the mayor and aldermen sitting by him; and so the disputation was introduced by the prolocutor, with a short prelude. Dr. Chedsey began to argue first, and ere he ceased, the prolocutor spoke divers times, Dr. Tresham, Dr. Oglethorpe, Marshall, the vice-chancellor, Pye, Cole, and Harpsfield interrupted, and pressed him with their arguments. Every man said somewhat, as far as the prolocutor would suffer, disorderly, sometimes in Latin, sometimes in English, so that three or four hours of the time were spent ere the-vice-chancellor of Cambridge began. Thus the disputation continued till almost two o'clock. Then were all the arguments written^ and delivered into the hand of Mr. Say, register. And the prisoner was taken away by the mayor, and confined again in Bocardo.

 

 On Thursday, April 19, after Dr. Ridley and Mr. Latimer had disputed with the learned men of both universities,, Mr. Harpsfield disputed for his form to be made doctor. To which disputation the archbishop of Canterbury was brought forth, and permitted, among the rest, to advance an argument or two. After which Dr. Weston said, " Your wonderfully gentle behavior and modesty, (good Dr. Cranmer,) is worthy much commendation; and that I may not deprive you of your right and just deserving, I give you most hearty thanks, in my own name, and in the name of all my brethren." At which words all the doctors gently put off their caps.

 

 On Friday, April 2O, Dr. Cranmer was brought before the commissioners, who sat in St. Mary's church. The commissioners asked him, What he would do He replied, That he would stand to what he had said. Then sentence was read over him, That he was no member of the church. And therefore he, his fautors, and patrons, were condemned as heretics. Then the archbishop of Canterbury answered, " From this your judgment and sentence, I appeal to the just judgment of God Almighty, trusting to be present with him in heaven; for whose presence in the altar I am thus condemned.'r After sentence was pronounced, the archbishop was returned to Bocardo.

 

 On Monday, the 23d of April, Dr. Weston took his journey to London, with the letters certificatory from the university to the queen, by whom the archbishop directed his letters supplicatory to the council. The prolocutor taking these letters,, carried them well near half way to London, and then opened them, and seeing the contents thereof, sent them back again, refusing to carry them to the council.

 

 

 

The following is the Epistle sent by the Archbishop to the

 

Council.

 

 

 

 " In right humble wise, shows unto your honorable lordships, Thomas Cranmer, late archbishop of Canterbury, beseeching the same to be a means for me unto the queen's highness for her mercy and pardon. Some of you know by what means I was brought and trained unto the will of our late sovereign lord king Edward 6: and what I spoke against the same, wherein I refer me to the reports of your honors and worships. Furthermore, this is to signify unto your lordships, that upon Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday last, were open disputations in Oxford against me, Mr. Ridley, and Mr. Latimer: upon Monday, against me; upon Tuesday, against Dr. Ridley; and upon Wednesday, against Mr. Latimer. How the other two were ordered, I know not; for we were separated, so that none of us knows what the other said, nor how they were ordered. But as concerning myself I can report. Dr. Chedsey was appointed to dispute with me, but the disputation was so confused, that I never knew the like; every man bringing forth out what he liked, without order; and such haste was made, that no answer could be suffered to be taken fully to any argument: and in such weighty matters, the disputation must needs be ended in one day, which can scarcely be ended in three months. And when we had answered them, they would not appoint us one day to bring forth proofs, that they might answer us: whereas I myself have more to say than can be well discussed, as I suppose, in twenty days. The means to resolve the truth had been, to have suffered us to answer fully to all they could say; and then they to answer us fully to all that we could say. But why they would not answer us, what other cause can there be, but that either they feared their matter, that they were not able to answer us, or else they made such haste, not to seek the truth, but to condemn us: for in haste we were all three condemned of heresy. Thus much I thought good to signify unto* your lordships, that you may know the indifferent handling of matters, leaving the judgment thereof to your own wisdoms. And I beseech your lordships, to remember me, a poor prisoner, unto the queen's majesty; and I shall pray, as I do daily unto GOD, for the long preservation of your lordships in all godliness and felicity. April 23, 1554."

 

 It must here be observed, that the sentence given against the three worthy bishops, Cranmer, Ridley, and Latimer, was void in law, so that a iiew commission was sent from Rome, and a new process framed for the conviction of those reverend and godly men; the commissioners for the execution whereof were Dr. James Brooks> bishop of Gloucester, the pope's sub-delegate; and on the king and queen's behalf, Dr. Martin, and Dr. Story.

 

 Upon the arrival of those commissioners at Oxford, on Thursday, September 12, 1555, a solemn scaffold, ten feet high, was erected for bishop Brooks, (who represented the pope,) in the east end of St. Mary's church. The seat was placed that he might sit under the altar. And on the right hand of the pope's delegate, beneath him, sat Dr. Martin and Dr. Story, the king and queen's commissioners, doctors of the civil law; and under them, other doctors, with the pope's collector.. These being placed, the archbishop of Canterbury was sent for. He having intelligence of them that were there, thus ordered himself: He came forth of the prison to St. Mary's church, clothed in a handsome black gown, with his hood on both shoulders, such as doctors of divinity in the university usually wear. After he was come into the church, and saw their order of sitting,, he did not put off his cap to any of them but stood still till he was called. Anon, one of the proctors for the pope called, " Thomas, archbishop of Canterbury, appear here, and make answer to what shall be laid to thy charge; that is, for blasphemy, incontinency, and heresy; and make answer here to the bishop of Gloucester, representing the pope's person."

 

 Upon this, being brought nearer the scaffold, he first well viewed the place of judgment, and spying where the king and queen's pioctors were, putting off his cap, he first humbly bowing his knee to the ground, made reverence to the one, and after to the other. That done, looking the bishop in the face, he put on his bonnet again, making no manner of obedience towards him at all. Whereat the bishop being offended, said unto him, That it might beseem him right well, weighing the authority he represented, to do his duty to him. Dr. Cranmer answered, That he bad taken a solemn oath, never to consent to the bishop of Rome's authority in this realm again; and that he had done it advisedly, and meant by God's grace to keep it; and therefore would commit nothing which might argue his consent to the receiving the same; and so he desired him to judge; and that he did it not for any contempt to his person, which he could have been content to have honored, as well as any of the other, if his commission had come from as good authority as theirs. This he answered both, modestly, wisely, and patiently, with his cap on his head, not once bowing or making any reverence. What was done at this sessions we know not farther, than that the archbishop was again sent to prison, where he continued long after the deaths of Ridley and Latimer

 

The commissioners being met again i*i the church of St. Mary, at Oxford, March 12, 1556, Dr. Cranmer was brought before them; and when they perceived that he would not yet move his bonnet, the bishop of Gloucester, (then Dr. Brooks,) made a vehement oration against him. Dr. Martin afterwards did the same. Which being ended, the archbishop said, " Shall I make my answer" " As you think good, (said Martin,) no man shall hinder you." And here the archbishop, kneeling down on both knees towards the west, said first the Lord's prayer. Then rising up, he recited the articles of the creed. Which done, he entereth his protestation in form, as followeth; *' This I do profess as touching my faith, and make my protestation, which I desire you to note. I will never consent that the bishop of Rome shall have any jurisdiction within this realm." " Take a note thereof," said Story. " Mark, Mr. Cranmer, (said Martin,) how you answer for yourself. You refuse him, by whose laws you remain in life, being otherwise attainted of high treason, and but a dead man by the laws of the realm." Cranmer replied, " I protest before God I was no traitor, but indeed I confessed more at my arraignment than was true.". " That, (said Martin,) is not to be reasoned at this present. You know you were condemned for a traitor. But proceed to your matter."

 

Cranmer: " I am a subject, I owe my fidelity to the crown. The pope is contrary to the crown. I cannot obey both; for no man can serve two masters at once. Therefore he that is subject to Rome, and the laws of Rome, is perjured; for the pope and the judges' laws are contrary, they are uncertain and confounded. A priest indebted by the laws of the realm shall be sued before a temporal judge; by the pope's laws, contrary. The king is head in his own realm; but the pope claimeth all bishops, priests, and curates. So the pope in every realm has a realm. By the laws of Rome, the benefice must be given by the bishop; by the laws of the realm, the patron giveth the benefice. Herein the laws be as contrary as fire and Water.

 

 "The bishop of Rome is contrary to GOD, and injurious to his laws; for God commandeth all men to be diligent in the knowledge of his law. The pope does contrary; for he willeth the service to be performed in the Latin tongue, which they do not understand. God would have it to be perceived; the pope will not. As concerning the sacrament, I believe that whoso eat and drink that sacrament, CHRIST is within them, whole CHRIST, his nativity, passion, resurrection, and ascension; but not CHRIST corporeally, he sitteth in heaven. CHRIST commandeth all to drink of the cup; the pope taketh it away from the laymen. CHRIST says, that antichrist shall be. And who shall he be He that advanceth himself above all other creatures. Now if none has advanced himself after such sort besides the pope, then let him be antichrist . The crown has nothing to dp with the clergy; for if a clerk come before a judge, the Judge shall make process against him, but not execute any laws: for if the judge shall put him to execution, then is the king accursed in maintaining his own laws. And therefore I say, that be is neither true to GOD, nor the king, that receiveth the pope.

 

Of St. Gregory says,’ He that taketh upon him to behead of the universal church, is worse than antichrist .

 

 If any man can show me that it is not against God's Word to hold his stirrup when he taketh his horse, and kiss his feet, (as kings do,) then will I kiss his feet also.'

 

And you, for your part, my lord, are perjured; for now you sit judge for the pope, and yet you received your bishopric of the king: and you have taken an oath to be adversary to the realm; for the pope's laws are contrary to the laws of the realm."

 

 The bishop of Gloucester replied, " You wer.e the cause that I forsook the pope, and swore that he ought not to be supreme head." Cranmer answered, " You say not the truth; my predecessor, bishop Warham, gave the supremacy to King Henry 8: and said tha' he ought to have it before the bishop of Rome, and thac God's Word would bear him. And upon the same was there sent to both the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, to know what the Word.of.God would do touching the supremacy.; and it was reasoned upon. So at last both the universities agreed, and set their seals, and sent it to king Henry 8: that he ought to be supreme head, and not the pope. You were doctor of divinity at that time, and your consent was thereunto, as by your hand does appear. Therefore you misreport me, that I was the cause of your falling away from the pope; it was yourself." Gloucester said, "We came to examine you, and you, methinks, examine us."

 

 Dr. Story then made a speech against him. And, as soon as he had ended, Dr. Martin began again to dispute with him concerning his breaking his oath to the pope, and denying the pope's supremacy. Furthermore, requiring him to give direct answers to many interrogatories; which he did. And bishop Brooks closed the examination wilh a second oration, more virulent than the former. After whom Dr. Story said, " Mr. Cranmer, you have made a goodly process concerning your heretical oath made to the king, but you forget your oath made to the apostolic see. As concerning your oath made to the king, if you made it to him only, it took an end by his death, and so it is released; if you made it to his successors, observe, sir, the true successors have the empire, and they will you to dissolve the same, and become a member of CHRIST's church again." To this the archbishop answered again: but Dr. Story, cutting him short, said, " Hold your peace, sir, and so shall it right well become you, considering that I gave you license before to say your fancy. Your oath was no oath: for it lacked the three points of an oath, that is, judgment, justice, and truth."

 

 He then called the witnesses; who were Dr. Marshall, commissary, and dean of CHRIST's church; Dr. Smith, under-commissary^ Dr.Tresham, Dr.Crooke, Mr. London, Mr. Curtop, Mr. Warde, Mr. Series. And Dr. Story admonished the archbishop to make his exceptions, if he thought any of the witnesses were to be refused: and he would admit none of them all, being men perjured. For if to swear, (said he,) against the pope were unlawful, they should rather have given their lives than their oaths. But if it were lawful, then they are perjured, to defend him whom they forswore before. Nevertheless, this answer being lightly regarded, he was commanded again to the place from whence he came. Who, at his departing, like as at his coming, showed low obedience to Dr. Martin, and to Dr. Story, the queen's commissioners. Then Dr. Story, pointing him to the bishop of Gloucester, said, That he ought rather to give reverence unto him. But the archbishop departing without any obeisance to the bishop, all rose up, and departed every one to his own. And thus brake up the session for that day, about two in the afternoon.

 

 After this, they cited him to appear at Rome within 8O days, to make there his personal answers; which he said, if the king and queen would send him, he would be content to do. But he was still kept in close confinement, notwithstanding he was commanded to appear at Rome. In the mean time, the pope sent his letter executory unto the king and queen, to degrade and deprive him of his dignity; which thing he did not only before the 8O days were ended, but before 2O days were spent. And although the archbishop was detained in strait prison in Oxford, so that he could not appear; yet, in the end of the 8O days, that worthy martyr was decreed contumacious, and, as one that was sturdily, frowardly, and wilfully absent, condemned to death.

 

 This letter or sentence of the poje was dated the 1st day of January, 1556, and was delivered in England about the middle of February. Upon the receipt of which, another session was appointed for the archbishop to appear the 14th of February, before certain commissioners sent down by the queen; the chief whereof was the bishop of Ely, Dr. Thurlby. Concerning whom here is to be noted, that albeit he was not the archbishop's chaplain, yet he was so familiarly acquainted with him, so dearly beloved, so inwardly accepted and advanced by him, (not like a chaplain, but rather a natural brother,) that there was never any thing in the archbishop's house so dear, were it plate, jewel, horse, maps, books, or any thing else, but if Thurlby did ever so little commend it, the archbishop forthwith, either gave it to Mm, or sent it after him to his house. And so greatly was the archbishop enamoured with him, that whosoever would obtain any thing of him, commonly made their way by Dr. Thurlby.

 

 With Dr. Thurlby, was joined in the commission, Dr. Bonner; who, coming to Oxford upon Valentine's-day, as the pope's delegates, with a commission from Rome, commanded the archbishop to come before them in the choir of CHRIST church, before the high altar, where they began, as the fashion is, to read their commission: wherein was contained, that in the court of Rome all things being examined, both the articles laid to his charge, with the answers made unto them, and witnesses examined on both parts, and council heard as well on the king and queen's behalf, his accusers, as on the behalf of Thomas Cranmer, the party guilty, so that he wanted nothing appertaining to his necessary defense, &c. As this was reading, " O Lord, (said the archbishop,) what lies be these, that I being continually in prison, and never suffered to have council or advocate at home, should produce witness, and appoint my council at Rome God must needs punish this open and shameful lying." They read on the commission, giving them full authority to proceed to deprivation and degradation, and so upon excommunication to deliver him up to the secular power, without any farther appeal.

 

 When the commission was read, they proceeded to his degradation. First they clothed him with all the vestments of a priest, and then with the robes of a bishop and archbishop, made of canvas and old clouts, with a mitre and pall of the same; then they put the crosier-^ staff into his hand. This done, Bonner, who, by the space of many years, had borne no great liking towards him, and now rejoiced to see this day, began to use all his eloquence, making a long oration to the assembly against him; and that with such scurrility, that the bishop of Ely divers times pulled him by the sleeve to make an end; and said to him afterwards, when they went to dinner, that he had broken promise with him; for he had intreated him earnestly to use the archbishop with reverence, which he promised to do. After this, they began to degrade him, and first to take his crosier-staff out of his hands, which he held fast, and refused to deliver; and withal, imitating the example of Martin Luther, pulled an appeal out of his sleeve, which he delivered unto them, saying, I appeal to the next general council, and prayed divers of the standers-by by name, to be witnesses, and especially Mr. Curtop. This appeal being put to the bishop of Ely, he said, " My lord, our commission is to proceed against you, without any farther appeal, and therefore we cannot admit it." " Why, (quoth he,) then you do me the more wrong; for my case is not as every private man's case. The matter is between the pope and me immediately, and no man ought to be a judge in his own cause." " Well, (quoth the bishop of Ely,) if it may be admitted it shall, and so received it of him. And then he began to persuade the archbishop to consider his state, while there was time to do him good, promising to become a suitor to the king and queen for him; and so protested 1 is love and friendship, heartily weeping, so that for a time he could not go on. After going forward, he earnestly affirmed, That if it had not been the king and queen's commandment, whom he could not deny, no worldly commodity should have made him to have done it; concluding, it was one of the sorrowfullest things that ever happened unto him. The archbishop said, He was very well content withal; and so they proceeded to his degradation; wherein bishop Bonner behaved himself as roughly and unmannerly, as the other bishop was to him soft and gentle. Last of all they stripped him out of his gown into his jacket, and put upon him a poor yeoman beadle's gown, full bare and worn, and a townman's cap on his head; and so delivered him to the secular power. And thus, with great compassion of every man, in this mean gown, he was carried to prison. There followed a gentleman of Gloucestershire, with the archbishop's gown; who, going into the prison with him, asked him, if he would drink The archbishop answered, if he had a piece of salt fish, he had a better will to eat; for he had been that day somewhat troubled, and had eaten little; but now that is past, my heart (said he,) is well quieted. Whereupon the gentleman said, he would give him money with all his heart, for heivas able to do it. But fearing to be prosecuted, he durst not give him any thing t but gave money to the bailiffs that stood by, and said, if they were good men they would bestow it on him, (for my lord of Canterbury had not one penny in his purse to help him,) and so left him, my lord bidding him earnestly farewel, commending himself to his prayers, and all his friends. That night this gentleman was confined by Bonner, for giving him this money; and but for the help of his friends, he had been sent up to the council.

 

 In this mean time, while the archbishop was remaining in durance, (whom they kept now in prison almost three years,) the divines of Oxford busied themselves all they could about Mr. Cranmer, to have him recant, assaying by all crafty practices and allurements they could devise, how to bring their purpose to pass. To this intent they had him to the dean's house of CHRIST-church, where he had all things that might draw him from CHRIST. Mean time, they procured certain men secretly, who, when they could not convince by arguments, would, by intreaty and fair promises, or any other means, allure him to recantation; perceiving otherwise what a great wound they should receive, if the arshbishop had stood steadfast in his sentence: and, on the other side, what great profit they should get, if he, as the principal standard-bearer, should be overthrown.

 

 First, they set forth, how acceptable it would be both to the king and queen; and especially how gainful to him, and his soul's health. They added, how the council and noblemen bore him good will. They put him in hope, that he should not only have his life, but be restored to his ancient dignity, saying, it was but a small matter they required him to do; only that he would subscribe to a few words with his own hand; which if he did, there was nothing in the realm that the queen would not easily grant him, whether he would have riches or dignity; or else, if he had rather live a private life in quiet rest, in whatsoever place he listed. When they made no end of calling and crying upon him, the archbishop, being overcome through their importunity, and his own weakness, at length consented, and signed a recantation. The doctors and prelates, without delay, eagerly.caused the same to be printed and sent abroad into the world. Whereunto, for better credit, first was added the name of Thomas Cranmer; then followed the witnesses of this recantation, Henry Sydal, and friar John de Villa Garcina. All this while Cranmer was in certain assurance of his life, the same having been faithfully promised to him by the doctors. The queen having now gotten a time to revenge her old grief, received his recantation gladly: but of her purpose to put him to death she would nothing relent.

 

 In the mean time, the queen to string secret counsel, how to despatch Cranmer out of the way, (who looked for nothing less than death,) appointed Dr. Cole, and secretly gave him in commandment, that against the 21st of March, he should prepare a sermdn for Cranmer; and so instructing him of her will, sent him away. Soon after, lord Williams, of Thame, and the lord Chandois, sir Thomas Bridges, and sir John Brown, were sent for, with other gentlemen and justices, commanded in the queen's name to be at Oxford on the same day, with their servants and retinue, lest Cranmer's death should cause any tumult.

 

 Dr. Cole having this lesson given him, returned to Oxford; who, as the day of execution drew near, even the day before, came into the prison to Cranmer, to try whether he abode in the catholic faith, in which he had before left him. To whom Cranmer answered, That by God's grace he would daily be more and more confirmed in the catholic faith. Cole departing for that time, the next day following repaired to the archbishop again, giving no signification, as yet, of his death. And therefore, in the morning, which was the 21st day of March, the day appointed for Cranmer's execution, the said Cole coming to him, asked him if he had any money. To whom, when he answered that he had none, he delivered him fifteen crowns, to give to whom he would: and so exhorting him to constancy in the faith, departed thence about his business.

 

The archbishop now began more and more to surmise what they went about. Then, because the day was not far past, and the lords and knights that were looked for, were not yet come, there came to him the Spanish friar, witness of his recantation, bringing a paper with articles, which Cranmer should openly profess in his recantation before the people, earnestly desiring him that he would write the said instrument with his own hand, and sign it with his name: which when he had done, the friar desired he would write another copy thereof, which should remain with him: and that he did also. But yet being not ignorant whereunto their devices tended, and thinking the time was at hand in which he could no longer dissemble, he put in his bosom another paper, which he minded to recite to the people.

 

 About nine o'clock, the lord Williams, sir Thomas Bridges, sir John Brown, and the other justices, with certain other noblemen, that were of the queen's council, came to Oxford, with a great train of waiting-men. Also of the other multitude on every side, (as is wont in such a matter,) was made a great concourse. For first, they of the pope's side were in great hope that day to hear something of Cranmer that should establish their opinion: the other part could not yet think, that he which by continual study and labor for so many years, had set forth the doctrine of the gospel, cither would or could now, in the last act of his life, forsake his part. In this so great frequency and expectation, Cranmer at length, came from Bocardo unto St. Mary's church. The mayor went before, next him the aldermen; after them walked Cranmer, between two friars, who, mumbling to themselves certain Psalms, answered one another until they came to the church-door, and there they began the song of Simeon. After they had entered the church, the psalm-saying friars conducted him to his standing, and there left him. There was a stage set over-against the pulpit, of a mean height from the ground, where Cranmer had his standing, waiting until Cole made himself ready for his sermon. The lamentable case and sight of the man, gave a sorrowful spectacle to all Christian eyes that beheld him: he that late was archbishop, metropolitan, and primate of England, and the king's privy counsellor, now in a bare and ragged gown, with an old square cap, exposed to the contempt of all men. In this habit, when he had stood a good space upon the stage, turning to a pillar near adjoining, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and prayed unto God once or twice, till Dr. Cole began his sermon.

 

 The latter part of his sermon he converted to the archbishop, whom before he was degrading with the character of a traitor, heretic, &c. encouraging him to take his death well, adding withal, That, lest he should carry with him no comfort, immediately after his death, there should be dirges, masses, and funerals for him in all the churches of Oxford. With what great grief Cranmer stood hearing this sermon, the outward show of his body and countenance did better express, than any man can declare; one while lifting up his hands and eyes unto heaven; and jthen again for shame letting them down to the earth. A man might have seen the very image of perfect sorrow lively in him expressed. More than twenty several times the tears gushed out abundantly, trickling down his face. Those who were present do testify that they never saw tears flow more plentifully from a little child, than from him, during the course of the sermon; but especially when he recited his prayer before the people. It is marvelous what pity moved all men's hearts that beheld so heavy a countenance, and such abundance of tears flowing from the eyes of so old and so reverend a dignity.

 

Cole, after he had ended his sermon, called back the people that were ready to depart to prayers. Brethren, (said he,) lest any man should doubt of this man's earnest conversion and repentance, you shall hear him speak before you. And therefore I pray you, Master Cranmer, that you will now perform what you promised not long ago; namely, that you would openly express the true and undoubted profession of your faith, that you may take away all suspicion from men, by which they may understand that you are a catholic indeed. I will do it, (said the archbishop,) and that with a good will; who rising up, and putting off his cap, began to speak thus unto the people:

 

 " I desire you, well belayed brethren in the Lord, that you will pray to God for me, to forgive me my sins, which above all men, in number and greatness, I have committed. But among all the rest, there is one offence which most of all at this time does vex and trouble me; whereof, in process of my talk, you shall hear more." And then, putting his hand into his bosom, he drew forth his prayer, and kneeling down, said as follows: "O Father of heaven! O Son of GOD, Redeemer of the world!

 

O Holy Ghost, Three Persons and one God! have mercy upon me, most wretched caitiff, and miserable sinner.

 

 I have offended both against heaven and earth, more than my tongue can express. Whither then may I go, or whither shall I flee To heaven I may be ashamed to lift up mine eyes; and on earth I find no place of refuge or succor. To thee, therefore, O Lord, do I run: to thee do I humble myself, saying, O Lord, my GOD, my sins be great; but yet have mercy upon me, for thy great mercy. The great mystery that God became man, was not wrought for little or few offences. You didst not give thy Son, O heavenly Father, unto death for small sins only, but for all the greatest sins of the world, so that the sinner return to thee with his whole heart, as I do at this present. Wherefore have mercy on me, O GOD, whose property is always to have mercy; have mercy upon me, O Lord, for thy great mercy. I crave nothing for mine own merits, but for thy name's sake, that it might be hallowed thereby, and for thy dear Son JESUS CHRIST's sake." And then rising, he said, " Every man, good people, desireth at the time of his death, to give some good exhortation that others may remember the same. So I beseech God grant me grace, that I may speak something at this my departing, whereby God may be glorified, and you edified.

 

 " First, It is an heavy cause to see so many dote upon this false world, and be so careful for it, that of the love of GOD, or the world to come, they seem to care very little or nothing. Therefore this shall be my first exhortation: That you set not your minds urion this glozing world, but upon GOD, and upon the world to come, and to learn what this lesson meaneth, * That the love of the world is hatred against God.'

 

 " The second exhortation is: That next under GOD, you obey your king and queen, willingly and gladly; not for fear of them only, but much more for the fear of God; knowing that they be God's ministers, appointed by God to rule and govern you; and therefore whosoever resisteth them, resisteth the ordinance of God.

 

 " The third exhortation is: That you love altogether like brethren and sisters. For alas! pity it is to see what contention and hatred one Christian man beareth another. I pray you, learn and bear well away this one lesson, To do good unto all men, as much as in you lieth, and to hurt no man, no more than you would hurt your own natural loving brother or sister. For this you may be sure of, that whosoever hateth any person, and go about to hinder or hurt him, without all doubt, God is not with that man, although he think himself never so much in God's favor.

 

 " The fourth exhortation shall be to them that have substance of this world That they will well consider three sayings of the Scripture. One is of CHRIST himself,’ It is hard for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven.' A sore saying, and yet spoken of him that knows the truth. The second is of St. John,’ He that has this world's goods, and seeth his brother in need, and shutteth up his mercy from him, how can he say that he loves God" The third is of St. James, to the covetous rich man,’ Weep and howl for the misery that shall come upon you: your riches do rot, your clothes be moth-eaten, your gold and silver does canker and rust, and their rust shall bear witness against you, and consume you like fire.' Let them that be rich, ponder well these three sentences: for if they ever had occasion to show their charity, they have it now, the poor people being so many, and the victuals so dear.

 

 " And now, forasmuch as I am come to the end of my life, whereupon hangeth all my life past,, and all my life to come, either to live with my Master (CHRIST,) for ever in joy, or be to be in pain for ever with devils; and I see before mine eyes, either heaven ready to receive me, or else hell ready to swallow me up: I shall declare unto you my very faith, without any color of dissimulation; for now is no time to dissemble, whatsoever I have said or written in times past. First, I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth. And I believe every article of the catholic faith, every word and sentence taught by our Savior, JESUS CHRIST, his apostles and prophets, in the New and Old Testament.

 

 " And now I am come to the great thing, which so much troubleth my conscience, more than any thing that ever I said or did in my whole life, and that is the setting abroad of a writing contrary to the truth; which I now here renounce, as things written with my hand, contrary to the truth, which I thought in my heart, and written for fear of death, and that is, all such papers which I have written or signed with my hand since my degradation; wherein I have written many things untrue. And forasmuch as my hand offended, writing contrary to my heart, my hand shall be first punished j for when I come to the fire, it shall be first burned. As for the pope, I refuse him, as CHRIST's enemy and antichrist , with all his false doctrine. And as for the sacrament, I believe as I have taught in my book, which teacheth so true a doctrine of the sacrament, that it shall stand at the last day before the judgment of God."

 

 Here the standers-by were all astonished, and looked one upon another, whose expectations he had so notably deceived. The doctors and monks especially, as soon as they heard these things, began to rage, fret, and fume; and so much the more, because they could not revenge their grief, for they could now no longer threaten or hurt him. For whereas he must needs die that day, though the papists had been never so well pleased: now being never so much offended with him, yet could he not be twice killed of them. Yet, lest they should say nothing, they ceased not to object unto him, his falsehood and dissimulation. Unto which he answered, " Ah, my masters, do not you take it so. Always since I lived hitherto, I have been a hater of falsehood, and a lover of simplicity, and never before this time have I dissembled j and in saying this, all the tears that remained in his body appeared in his eyes. And when he began to speak more of the sacrament and the papacy, some of them began, to cry out, (and especially Cole,) " Stop the heretic's mouth, and take him away." And then Cranmer, being pulled down from the stage, was led to the fire, accompanied with those friars, vexing and troubling him most cruelly. " What madness, (said they,) has brought thee again into this error, by which you wilt draw innumerable souls with thee into hell*' To whom he answered nothing, but directed all his talk to the people, saving that to one troubling him by the way he spoke, and exhorted him to get home to his study, and apply his book diligently, saying, If he did diligently call upon GOD, by reading more, he should get knowledge.

 

When he came to the place where bishop Latimer and Ridley were burnt, kneeling down, he prayed to God; and not long tarrying in his prayers, putting off his garments to his shirt, he prepared himself to death. His shirt was made long down to his feet. His feet were bare: likewise his head, when both his caps were off, was so bare, that one hair could not be seen upon it. His beard was long and thick, covering his face with marvelous gravity. Such a countenance moved the hearts of his friends and of his enemies. Then he gave his hand to certain old men, and others that stood by, bidding them farewel. And when he had thought to have done so likewise to the bishop of Ely, he drew back his hand, and refused, saying, It was not lawful to salute heretics, and especially such a one as turned unto the opinions he had forsworn. And if he had known before that he would have done so, he would never have used his company so familiarly; and chid those sergeants and citizens which had not refused to give him their bands.

 

 Then was an iron chain tied about Cranmer, and when they perceived he could not be moved, they commanded the fire to be set unto him. When the wood was kindled, and the fire began to burn near him, stretching out his arm, he put his right hand into the flame, which he held so steadfast and immovable, (saving that once with the same hand he wiped his face,) that all men might see his hand burned before his body was touched. And he did so abide the burning of the flame with such constancy steadfastness, that standing always in one place, he seemed to move no more than the stake, to which he was bound j his eyes were lifted up to heaven, and oftentimes he cried out, This unworthy hand! so long as his voice would suffer him; and often using the words of St. Stephen,’ Lord JESUS receive my spirit!' he gave up the ghost.

 

 

 

AN ACCOUNT

 

OF

 

DIVERS SERVANTS OF CHRIST,

 

Who escaped burning, by the Death of Queen Mary, and

 

otherwise.

 

 

 

 1. RICHARD WHITE and John Hunt being apprehended, and examined by the mayor of Marlborough, were sent to Salisbury, and kept a long time in Lollard's Tower j and at last were brought before bishop Capon, and other commissioners, and there examined of their faith; when they made a stout and zealous profession of the same, from which they could not be removed, either by frown or flatteries; so that at length, at the sessions they were condemned, and, with other malefactors, delivered to sir Anthony Hungerford, the high-sheriff, to be executed. But the evening after, Mr. Clifford, son-in-law to sir Anthony, came to him, exhorting him in no case to have a hand in the death of those innocent persons. Sir Anthony hearing him, went immediately to justice Brown, to ask his advice, what he should do. Justice Brown told him, that if he had not a writ from above for their execution, he could not answer it; but if he had, he must do his office. The sheriff hearing this, took his horse the next day and went out of town, leaving these men in prison. Dr. Geffery, the chancellor, hearing of his departure, rode after him, and told him, that he had delivered over to his hands, two condemned men j and wondered that he went away before he had executed them, according to his office. " If you have (said he,) a writ to discharge me for burning them, I know what I have to do." Why, (said the chancellor,) did I not give you a writ under my hand for it" " Well, (replied the sheriff,) that is not sufficient to discharge me: if I have not a writ from the superior powers, I will not burn them for any of you all." Dr. Geffery hearing this, returned home, and presently fell sick upon it. Not long after, came down a writ from above to the under-sheriff, for their execution: but he cast the writ into the fire, saying, " I will not be guilty of the blood of these men." Four days after, the prisoners, (who were confined in a low dark dungeon,) were going to prayer; but on a sudden, (knowing no reason for it,) they both burst out into a great weeping, so that they could not speak a word; and the next morning they understood that just at that time the chancellor died. Presently after, the bishop also died. So that these two holy men continued in prison till queen Mary's death; and by that means it pleased God to deliver them.

 

 2. There was dwelling in Bedfield, in the county of Suffolk, one Elizabeth Lawson, aged about 6O, who, being apprehended for an heretic, because she would not go to church to hear mass, was -cast into a dungeon; where having lain awhile, she was removed first to Norwich, and then to Bury gaol; and remaining constant in the truth, was at last condemned to be burnt. Then did the high-sheriff take her home with him to Ms house, and assayed by all means, both fair and foul, to pervert her. B-ut when nothing would prevail, he sent her back to prison; and there she continued almost three years i during which time her son, and many others, were burnt. Whereupon she would often say, " Good Lord, what is the cause that I may not yet come unto thee with others of thy children Well, good Lord, thy blessed will be done, and not mine." At last queen Mary dying, she was delivered out of prison; and, not long after, resigned her soul to God. This is very observable, that before her imprisonment, she was much troubled with the falling-sickness: but after she was cast into prison, she had not one fit, but was in good health, and enjoyed much comfort in her soul.

 

 3. There was dwelling in the town of Seale, in Kent, one William Watts, who being apprehended by his popish enemies, was carried before the bishops and justices at Tunbridge, who labored much to withdraw him from the truth. But when they could by no means prevail, they committed him prisoner to the constable, who carried him to an alehouse; where the constable drank so liberally, that at last he fell fast asleep. Watts's wife seeing this, persuaded her husband to go his ways, forasmuch as God had made way for his escape. But William would by no means be persuaded thereunto. Whilst they were reasoning together, a stranger over-hearing them, said to him, " Father, go thy ways, in God's name, and tarry no longer; the Lord has opened the way for thee." Upon this Watts went his way, and his wife returned to her house at Seale: but while she was telling some friends of her husband's great deliverance, he came in amongst them; which when his wife saw, he was much troubled, and persuaded him by all means to haste away before search should be made after him. He answered, That he would first eat some meat, and pray with his family; which accordingly he did; and then went and hid himself in a holly-bush hard by. No sooner was he gone out of doors, but in came the constable, and many more with him, searching all the house, breaking open chests, and piercing the feather-beds, so that he made much spoil in the house. But it pleased God to hide his servant, and to deliver him from the danger.

 

 4. In London, there was one Dabney, a painter, who being apprehended by an apparitor, was carried to Bonner; but when they came thither, they were bid to stand by a while, because the bishop was busy in examining others; and before he had finished with them, a messenger came in haste, desiring the bishop to prepare himself speedily, for that the general procession tarried for him. Then were all other businesses laid aside; the bishop and his family hastening away to the procession; by reason whereof Dabney was left alone. He, seeing this, went down into the court, and there walked up and down in a melancholy posture. The porter seeing him thus to walk alone, and thinking him to be some citizen that came about business, asked him if he would go forth " Yes, (said he,) if you will let me out." With that the porter opened the wicket, and let him depart. After this, much search was made for him, but the Lord preserved him from the danger.

 

 5. Mr. Alexander Winshurst, a godly minister, being informed against to Bonner, he sent forth one to apprehend him j who, after search, meeting with him, took him, and carried him towards the bishop's house; and as they went through St. Paul's church, Mr. Winshurst espied Dr. Chadsey walking there, who having been of his ancient acquaintance in Oxford, he entreated him that, for old acquaintance sake, he would prevail so far, that he might be examined before Dr. Martin, rather than any other The doctor in scorn, answered him with the words of CHRIST, " When you wast young, you girdest thyself, and went whither you wouldst; but being aged, other men shall gird thee, and lead thee whither you wouldst not." Then he was carried to Story and Cooke, who labored by all means, both fair and foul, to pervert him; but he carried himself very resolutely before them, not shrinking at all from his former profession. Hereupon they sent him to Cluny's house, in Paternoster-Row, by whom he was to be committed to Lollard's Tower; but the Lord pleased so to order it, that when he came thither, Cluny and his family were very busy, so that he was left alone in his hall; only there was another woman, whose husband was in trouble, about whom she stayed to speak with Cluny. She, seeing Mr. Winshurst stand there, said to him, " Alas, good sir, if you please, you may escape the hands of your enemies, forasmuch as they be all absent that look to you, whereby God has opened the way for your deliverance." At these words he looked about him, and went out of the doors, walking but a leisurely pace, so that he might have easily been taken again, if any had looked after him: but it was God's will that he should thus escape the fury of his adversaries.

 

 6. There was dwelling at Wimondham, in Norfolk, the lady Anne Kneevet, being near 1OO years old, who all the time of queen Mary kept herself from the popish church, neither suffered any of their trash to be administered in her house, but had the English service daily performed, which was used in king Edward's days. For this, she and her family were many times threatened that the bishop would visit her ere long: to whom she still answered, " That if his lordship sent word before hand, his entertainment should be accordingly." But God by his merciful Providence so over-awed their hearts, that she lived in safety all that troublesome time: yea, though there were sometimes present at her service great enemies to the truth, and such as had authority; yet coming in, they would kneel down amongst the rest at prayer, and had no power to trouble her for the same. This good lady was much given to hospitality, and entertained in her house many of the persecuted members of JESUS CHRIST; and though they were never so poor, they were looked upon by her as friends, and not suffered to depart without meat and money.

 

 7. Not long before queen Mary's death, the city of Calais, in France, which had been 211 years in the possession of the English, was taken by the bloody duke of Guise, who put multitudes of persons, of all ages and sexes, to the sword. At which time there were many godly persons in that town; and the Lord, whose Providence always watches over his people, so ordered it, that few or none at all of those perished in that terrible massacre. And amongst others that escaped, after a wonderful manner, there was one John Thorpe and his wife, who lying sick at the same time, were cast out into the fields, in a hopeless and helpless condition. Also a young infant that sucked the mother, was taken in the fields, and carried away by the soldiers; yet, behold the admirable Providence of God! They were fetched by strangers to a place almost a mile off: and being recovered, the next day as they traveled towards England, they happened to go to the same inn, where they found their young child, and so came all over in safety.

 

 8. In the second year of the reign of queen Mary, there was one Edward Bennet, dwelling at Queenhithe, who was desired to carry a New Testament to a man that was a prisoner in Newgate. But as he went in, the keeper discovered it, and thereupon carried him before Cholmley, the recorder, who, after examination, committed him to the Compter in Wood Street, where he continued 25 weeks. Then Dr. Story coming to examine other prisoners, Benriet looking out at a grate, desired hath to be good to him, and to help him out of prison. " Yea, (said Story,) you have been with me before, and dost not believe in the sacrament, and therefore I will help thee out." And so he took him, and delivered him to Cluny, to be put into the bishop's coal-house, and there he lay in the stocks for a week. Then Bonner sent for him and examined him, and finding him constant in the truth, sent him back again, saying, That shortly he should go to Fulham. Afterwards they sent Dr. Cran-mer's recantation to him, hoping thereby to draw him to recant: but he answered, That his faith was not founded upon any man's books, but upon His that had redeemed him. Two or three days after, he, with five more, were sent for to the bishop's chapel to mass; at the end whereof, those five were returned to prison, and afterwards burned: but Bennet being behind, and walking towards the gate, the porter opened it for company to go out, and so Bennet going out amongst them, escaped.

 

 Afterwards he being amongst those that were apprehended at Islington, Bennet, with seven more, were left behind; yet he went after the rest to the bishop's house, and knocked at the gate to come in: the porter said he was none of the company. " Yes, (said he,) but I am," and knocked again: but the porter not opening the door, one that stood by said, " Edward, you have done well; do not tempt God; go thy way;" and so he taking this warning as sent from GOD, departed, and escaped the danger.

 

 9. There was living in Kent, one Thomas Wood, a baker, who being convened before Dr. Kenall, chancellor, Dr. Chadsey, and some others, at his appearing, they asked him, Why he came not to church, and whether he had received the blessed sacrament of the altar He answered, That he had not, neither durst receive it as they prescribed. Kenall said, "You heretic, what is the reason you darest not receive it" Wood answered, " There are three causes why I dare not do it. 1. Because ye eat and drink up all alone; whereas CHRIST says,’ Eat ye, drink ye all of this,' &c. 2. Because ye hold it up to be worshipped, contrary to God's command,’You shall not bow down nor worship,' &c. 3. Because ye administer it in a strange tongue, contrary to St. Paul's rule." Kenall replied, " You heretic, are not these words plain enough,’This is my body' Wilt you deny the Scripture" Wood said, " I will not deny the Scripture, God forbid; CHRIST says,’lama vine; I am a door; the rock is CHRIST.' All which are figurative speeches, wherein one thing is spoken, and another thing is understood."

 

 " These heretics," answered Kenall, " will not learn: art you wiser than the queen and her council, and all the learned men of the realm" "St. Paul," replied Wood, "says, "The wisdom of the wise is foolishness before God:' and,' If a man will be wise, he must become a fool." " Dost you not believe," said Kenall, " that after the priest has spoken these words,’ This is my body,' that there remains no more bread and wine, but that flesh and blood of CHRIST that hung upon the cross" Wood answered, " I pray you, master chancellor, give me leave to ask you another question: When God commanded Ezekiel to cut off his hair, and to burn a third part in the fire,’ And this, (says he,) is Jerusalem.' I pray you, was it hair that was burnt, or Jerusalem" " It signified Jerusalem," says Kenall. " Even so," said Wood, " those words of CHRIST,’ This is my body,' are to be understood."

 

 Chadsey now interposed, and said, " I will prove that CHRIST is here present under the form of bread and wine, but not in quantity and quality." " Yes," says Kenall, " he is here present in quantity and quality." Chadsey said, "He is here present under a form, but not in quantity and quality." "Yes," said the one, "No," said the other. Whereupon the contention grew to hot between the doctors, that they foamed again; and Dr. Kenall in a great rage rose up and departed out of the church. Then said Wood, " Behold, good people, they would have us to believe, that which they do not believe themselves, nor can agree upon." This caused the people to give a great shout; and T. Wood walked away, no man hindering.

 

 1O. There was one Thomas Sprat, sometime a servant to Mr. Brent, a justice in Kent, who, because his master was a cruel persecutor of the truth, left his service, and went to Calais, from whence he often used to come into England, together with one William Porrege, about their necessary affairs. About the 4th year of queen Mary, it fell out that they, landing at Dover, were traveling on foot towards Sandwich; and, as they were upon the way, they met with Mr. Brent, and the two Blachendens, with their servants, being ten or twelve horsemen; Thomas Sprat, espying Mr. Brent, was much dismayed, saying to his friend, " Yonder is Mr. Brent! the Lord deliver us out of his hands! But, seeing there is no remedy, let us go forwards;" and so shadowing his face with his cloak, they went on. Mr. Brent heeded them not; but one of his servants, looking better upon them, said to his master, " Yonder goes Thomas Sprat;" at which words they all stopped their horses, and called to Thomas Sprat to come to them. "They call you," said William Porrege, " and therefore there is no remedy but we must be taken;" and thereupon persuaded him to go to them, for that there was no means of escaping, themselves being on foot upon those plain downs, and the others on horseback: yet Sprat would not go. Whereupon they called him again; and Mr. Brent said, " Ah, sirrah, why come you not when you are called" His companion likewise still moved him to go, seeing there was no way for him to flee away. " No," said Sprat, " I will not go to them;" and withal ran away. 

 

 They seeing that, set spurs to their horses, and rode after him; but before they overtook him, he gat to an hedge, and made shift to scramble through it, yet they were so near him, that they struck at him with their swords: and although they vehemently pursued him, he was delivered by the favor of a steep hill, which they could not ride down; and so escaped into a wood. His companion they released.