A

CHRISTIAN LIBRARY:

CONSISTING OF

EXTRACTS FROM AND ABRIDGMENTS OF

THE

CHOICEST PIECES

OF

Practical Divinity

WHICH HAVE BEEN PUBLISHED IN THE ENGLISH TONGUE.

IN THIRTY VOLUMES:

FIRST PUBLISHED IN 175O, IN FIFTY VOLUMES, DUODECIMO.

BY JOHN WESLEY, MA

LATE FELLOW OF LINCOLN COLLEGE, OXFORD.

VOL. 15:

LONDON:

CONTENTS.

THE LIVES

OF

VARIOUS EMINENT PERSONS

CHIEFLY EXTRACTED FROM

MR. SAMUEL CLARK.

VOL, 15:

SIR. WESLEY'S PREFACE

TO HIS

EXTRACTS FROM “CLARK'S LIVES."

1. IN order to illustrate, by examples, the rules already laid down, I at first only designed to abridge the Lives which Mr. CLARK had collected. But, upon a closer inspection, it was easy to perceive, that many of them would not answer the pains of abridging. Many of the persons of whom he speaks were in no way eminent, either for piety or understanding. The accounts he has given of many of the rest, contain few matters worth relating: and even these are generally related in a low and injudicious manner.

2. On the other hand, I found that he had omitted the lives of some of the most eminent men in our nation such were Archbishop Usher and Bishop BEDELL in particular: such were many others of the Established Church, who had no scruple in respect of conforming both to her doctrine and discipline.

3. I have therefore been obliged to vary from my first design, both by omitting many lives which IR. CLARK has inserted, as containing either nothing exemplary, or nothing but what occurs with more advantage in the lives of others; and by inserting those of some whom. he had omitted, but who were men famous in their generations, and highly esteemed by all those who love the image of GOD, in whomsoever it may be found.

4. Perhaps it may be useful, as well as agreeable, to those who have broken loose from that miserable bigotry, which is too often entailed upon us from our forefathers, to observe how the same SPIRIT works the same work of grace in men upright of heart, of whatever denomination. These, how widely soever they differ in opinion; all agree in one mind, one temper. How far distant soever they are from each other, with regard to the circumstances of worship, they all meet in the substance of all true worship, a the faith that worketh by love;"

MR. CLARK'S ACCOUNT

OF HIS OWN LIFE.

I SAMUEL CLARK was born in Woolston, in the county of Warwick, on the 1Oth of October, 1599. My mother, who was a good woman, died when I was young: my father was a faithful and laborious Minister, and exercised his ministry for above forty years in that parish, with much profit and comfort. Under his wing I was trained up till I was about thirteen years old; and then I was sent to school in Coventry; which city, at that time, flourished exceedingly with religious Ministers and people, though for my own part, falling into the company of dissolute youths, I began to degenerate from the principles of my first education, though not without much reluctance, and frequent checks of conscience.

Having spent about four years in that school, I was by my father carried to Cambridge, which University was eminent for religion at that time; and was placed by him under MR. THOMAS HOOKER, in Emanuel College, which was the Puritan college, MR. HOOKER was one of the choicest tutors in the University. Yet, neither there did I answer my father's care; for though my carriage was, in the sight of the world blameless, yet did I not walk with GOD either in my general or particular calling as I ought to have done.

When I was Bachelor of Arts, my father took me from the University; and immediately after my return homer I fell sick of the small pox, and was so full, of them, that my father despaired of my recovery; yet it pleased my heavenly Father to restore me beyond his expectation. Shortly after, I was sent for to a gentleman in the woodland part of the country, to teach his children, and to be assistant to MR. SLADER, Minister of Knowle. After I had continued in that family somewhat more than a year, I was unexpectedly sent for into Cheshire, to be an. assistant to MR. BYROM, Minister of Thornton, with whom I continued almost two years; and by reason of some’suits in law wherein he was entangled, I was put upon preaching twice a Sabbath, a great part of that time.

In that family I was cast upon some great temptations: but it pleased the LORD in mercy to hedge up my way with thorns, and by striking me with extraordinary fear and terror, he made me reflect upon myself, humbled me. for my sins, and by degrees gave me some comfort in believing. Yet SATAN often interrupted me in my secret duties; and one of his instruments was also raised up to prosecute me in the Chancellor's court at Chester, for the omission of some ceremonies: so that, receiving divers discouragements, I resolved to leave that place; and being importuned by some friends in London to come thither, I went to Chester at Michaelmas Fair, with a purpose of sending my trunk to London, and of shortly after following myself: but some inhabitants of Wirral, a peninsula beyond West Chester, who had been my frequent hearers at Thornton, meeting me at the fair, importuned my coming to Shotwick amongst them, and. would receive no repulse.

That country is about fourteen miles long, and five broad. There were several understanding Christians scattered up and down in it; but scarce a constant preacher besides myself: so that, as my maintenance carne by a voluntary contribution from all those Christians, all of then, within six or seven miles' compass, repaired to my ministry, both old and young, men and women, summer and winter; spending the time between the sermons in repetition, singing of psalms, and conference; and as they took extraordinary pains for the word, so they highly prized it, and much profited by it. I also set up monthly sacraments, in which we enjoyed much sweet liberty and communion. And besides these public ordinances, we had once in three weeks ordinarily a day of conference, unto which repaired many, both men and women, out of all the country; and this meeting was held by turns at the richer men's houses. In the morning, when they first met, the master of the family began with prayer_; then was the question to be conferred of, read, and the younger Christians first gave in their answers, together with their proofs of Scripture for them; and then the more experienced Christians gathered up the other answers which were omitted by the former; and thus they continued till dinner-time, when they dined together with much cheerfulness. After dinner, having sung a psalm, they returned to their conference upon the other questions, which were three in all, till towards the evening; at which time, as the master of the family began, so he concluded with prayer, and I gave them three new questions against their next meeting; which being appointed for time and place, every one repaired to his own home. The benefits which came by these days of conference were many and great.

I Hereby knowledge was wonderfully increased,- so that I was never acquainted with more understanding Christians in all my life, thou the best of them followed husbandry. 2. Holy affections, by this mutual whetting of each other, were exceedingly kindled, and kept alive. 3. Love, by frequent society, was nourished and increased; so that all the professors, though living ten or twelve miles asunder, were as intimate and familiar as if they had been all of one household. 4. The necessities of the poorer sort being made known, there was plentiful provision made for them. 5, The weak were strengthened, the mourners comforted, the wanderers reclaimed, the dejected raised up, and all of them mutually edified in their most holy faith. 6. Under the pretence of these meetings, we enjoyed the opportunities, as occasion was offered, of private fasts and days of thanksgiving, which otherwise would quickly have been taken notice of and suppressed.

In this place I found the first seal of my ministry, by being an instrument of the conversion of many souls to GOD: amongst these persons I had abundance of comfort, by their hearty prayers for me, entire affection to me, and care to provide for me. Whilst I was in this place, GOD disposed of me in marriage to an holy, humble, prudent, and sweet-natured yoke-fellow, unto which, of all the outward mercies I ever enjoyed from GOD, none is to be compared. She came of religious parents; her father was a faithful Minister at Bedford, in Warwickshire. But after I had continued about the space of five years in this place, where we enjoyed so much happiness, the Devil raised up some of his instruments to prosecute me in the Chancellor's court, for the omission of ceremonies; who was so violently bent against me, that he would not suffer me to preach a farewell-sermon to my people. I3ut, behold the sweet Providence of GOD! Just at the time when I was thus molested, there came a letter to me from the Mayor, Aldermen, old MR. FENN, and some other people in Coventry, importuning me to cone to preach a lecture in that great city; divers of them having heard me not long before at Woolston. After I had sought to GOD and my friends for advice, I resolved to embrace that call: but when I was about leaving that people, it caused much grief to them and me; and with abundance of tears on both sides, we were torn asunder.

At my coming to Coventry, I was entertained with much love and respect; there, for a while, I exercised my ministry. But neither there would the Devil suffer me to be quiet long; for DR. BUGGS, who had engrossed both the livings, there being but two parishes in that great city, seeing his hearers go from him, soon professed himself my enemy, and having power of both the pulpits, denied me entrance into either. Whereupon the Mayor and Aldermen, having another church at an end of the town in their disposal, appointed my lecture there: but DR. BUGGS, having his spies to watch me, both in my prayers and sermons, conceived that he had gotten some advantages against me, for some expressions used by me in the same.

Hereupon he became an eager prosecutor of me before the Bishop of the Diocese, who was DR. MORTON, who inhibited me from preaching in his diocese; but having a license from the Archbishop of Canterbury, [ABBOT,] I refused to obey his inhibition. Shortly after, the Bishop, going to London, caused me to be cited up to the Court of Arches, whither I went, but he put in nothing against me: and when I went to him at his lodgings, he first by persuasions, and afterwards by menaces, labored to have me relinquish the place: yet I resolved to keep it as long as I could, and returned to Coventry again; where a new Mayor being chosen, who was a great friend to DR. BUGGS, the zeal of the Aldermen in standing for me was much cooled; whereupon my lecture fell to the ground, and I assisted my father every Sabbath, who lived within four miles of the city. The door being thus shut against me at Coventry, I was unexpectedly sent for by ROBERT, LORD BROOK, Who was then a young man, and unmarried, to bestow a sermon upon him at his house in Wednock Park, not far from Warwick; whither, though with much reluctancy, I went, and preached before him, and found such approbation, that he desired me to he his household Chaplain; but such a life not suiting with my estate, being married, nor with my affections, with humble thanks I refused it, yet found him a fast and faithful friend to me all his life after.

About the same time I was sought for by the Magistrates of Warwick, to preach a lecture there on the Sabbaths in the afternoon, and on Tuesday mornings; but MR. HALL, the Vicar of that place, opposed it whereupon the Bailiff and Burgesses made their address to ROBERT, Earl of Warwick, who was their Recorder, who sent for me up to London, heard me preach, gave me his qualification to be his Chaplain, and wrote so to MR. HALL, that, being overawed by his letter, he ad-d milted of me for his assistant. In that place I exercised my ministry about five years, and the LORD was pleased so to bless my labors, that I was the instrument of the conversion of some souls; as also of much good in the LORD BROOK'S family, who, being then married, lived for the most part in Warwick Castle. But these things proved the object of MR. HALL'S envy, who caused me to be presented for the omission of ceremonies; yet the Bishop [DR, TOENBURY] being an old man, and peaceable, dealt so fairly, that still I got off. At length, MR. HALL, being impatient of my continuance, came to pull me out of the pulpit, and by his, clamors and noise so interrupted me, that I was forced to give over; and DR. LAUD being made Archbishop of Canterbury, he, in his old age, made a journey to London, complained of me to the Archbishop; and threatened to prosecute, me in the high Commission-Court: yet it pleased the LORD so to order things, that I heard no more of it. About this time the Parson of Alcester died; and LORD BROOK, having formerly proffered that Rectory to me, did now as freely confer it upon me; whither I went, preached to the people, and was freely and unanimously chosen by them for their Pastor: whereupon I took institution and induction into the place, and there exercised my ministry in peace for a time.

And whereas the town was placed in the midst of many great Papists, who made it their rendezvous; and for -want of a powerful ministry, the inhabitants of the town were much given to swearing, drunkenness, and profanation of the Sabbath, opening their shops, and selling wares, especially meat, publicly; it pleased GOD to bless my ministry and private labors, for the reforming those things. But neither did the Devil suffer me to be long in quiet there; for the book of Sporting upon the Sabbath came forth, and I was often enjoined the reading of it, and much threatened for the refusal; and was the more envied, because all the Ministers thereabout submitted to the reading of it: yet it pleased GOD to preserve my liberty, notwithstanding my refusal; and the LORD added divers to the church by my ministry at, that time.

Also about the same time, after I had preached largely upon the doctrine of the Sabbath for half a year together, it pleased GOD to show a remarkable judgment upon two of my neighbors; who, encouraged by that book, and in contempt of my ministry, dared to profane that holy day. The one was a healthy young woman, daughter to J. WALDREN, who said that she would go to such a green in the next parish, and there dance as long as she could stand; which also on the Sabbath in the afternoon she did; but as she was dancing, it pleased the LORD to strike her with a grievous disease, whereof she died within three days. The other was a young man, one CHARLES BELLERS. These remarkable judgments, seconding the word, struck a great awe in the hearts of many, to the restraining of them from the like sins. Soon after came on the Archbishop's visitation by SIR NATHANIEL BRENT, unto whom MR. HALL, and some others, made many and great complaints of me; yet by a letter from MR. R. KNIGHTLY, of Fausly, to SIR N. BRENT, in my behalf, it pleased GOD to deliver me from that snare also. Thus through GOD’s mercy, I continued the exercise of my ministry in that place for about nine years; in which time very many young persons, both men and women, held their meetings on the Sabbaths in the evening, to repeat sermons, and perform such duties; others were built up in their faith; and the town, which before was called drunken Alcester, was now exemplary for' religion all over the country; and upon all occasions, when public works of mercy were called for, their zeal and forwardness provoked many others.

Not long after, the differences between King and Parliament grew so high, that both parties betook themselves to arms. Whereupon, after some time, upon a special occasion, I went to London, and having been a while there, yet with a purpose of returning, I was one day talking with my Sister SUTTON, whom I met about Mercer's Chapel in Cheapside; and whilst we were talking together, came by MR. THOMAS CLENDAN, whom I had formerly known, but had now forgotten. My sister telling me who it was, I desired her to call him back, that I might renew my acquaintance; which she did: and as we were talking together, GOD by his providence so ordered it, that there came by two of Bennet-Fink parish; whom MR. CLENDAN stopping, said to them, a You want a Minister, and if you can prevail with this gentleman, you will be well fitted." Hereupon I was requested to give them a sermon the Sabbath following; which I assented to, riot knowing what GOD intended. ’About, ten others had preached before me, for the place, amongst whom were DR. HOILE, old MR. CARTER, of the Assembly, and MR. F. BELLARS. The chief persons in the parish were for MR. CARTER; and whereas some of the parish urged to proceed to a choice, the other party put it by till the last Wednesday in May, which was the monthly fast; against which time they had procured MR. CARTER to preach in the afternoon: so that they were immediately to proceed to the choice, whilst his gifts in prayer and preaching had left an impression upon the people's spirits, that they might the easier bring him in. Accordingly when they were met in the vestry, the debate was, who should be put into nomination; and all agreed that MR. CARTER, MR. BELLARS, and myself, should be set down in a paper, to which they were to make their marks, MR. BELLARS had but one or two hands; for MR. CARTER there was MR. GREENE, a Member of Parliament, and six more of the greatest men of the parish, before any appeared for me. But then a godly man beginning, so many of the rest followed, that the choice went clearly on my side.

All this while I knew nothing hereof, or what they were about; not being acquainted with any one in the parish, nor employing any friend to speak to them in my behalf. But that day I preached in Fish-Street for MR. J. SMART, and in the evening supping there, there came a committee from Bennet-Fink parish, to acquaint me with my free election, and to entreat me to accept of the place. Taking notice of the concurring providences of GOD, I durst not refuse the call; yet reserved myself free to return to Alcester when the storm was over.

The wars being ended, I went into Warwickshire, and preached on the LORD's day at Alcester; and many of the people with tears importuned my return. During the wars, many of the inhabitants of the younger sort had retired to Warwick for safety; where falling into the company of Anabaptists, and other sectaries, they were leavened with their errors; and being now returned home, they had set up private meetings; and many young men, whom I looked upon before as children begotten by my ministry to GOD, were turned preachers. Whereupon, before I would promise to return, I propounded some articles to them concerning their owning me for their Pastor, which they promised; upon which I promised to return to them the spring following, this being the latter end of summer. But these sectaries underhand wrought against me, and grew higher in the ways of separation; so that finding the love of the people towards me here, the opportunities that I had of being instrumental to the public good, and the unlikeliness of living comfortably at Alcester, having provided an able Minister for them, I resigned to him, and resolved to fix at Bennet-Fink.

Thus, through Gala's mercy, I continued the exercise of my ministry for the space of forty years, even till the Act of Conformity took place; which turned rue, and almost two thousand godly and laborious ministers and school-masters out of their places. After which, though, I durst not separate from the Church of England, yet I intermitted not my private studies; but spent most of my time in reading, writing, and enlarging the books which I formerly printed, or composing new ones. And if it please GOD that the remainder of my Cases of Conscience shall ever be printed, I doubt riot but they will prove as grateful and useful, (if not more so,) as any I have pruned already.

POSTSCRIPT.

The following Account is given of the Death of "Dr. SAMUEL CLARK, Dec. 2O, 1682.” When he first came down in the morning, he complained that he had lain in a fever all night, yet found no great alteration in himself that day: but within two or three days he grew very weak, and was confined to his bed; and then the decays of nature fell violently upon him, so that his strength was quite gone, and he was unable to help himself, and began to falter in his speech yet the use of his understanding remained to the last. And as upon all occasions, at Other times, he would be speaking of his change, so now more especially his communication was such as became a dying person, and one that had a sense of eternity upon his spirit, yea, a comfortable assurance of his own title to a blessed eternity, And thus, upon December 25, 1652, having blessed those that were about him, he designed his soul into the bands of his FATHER, and fell asleep in the Lord; being aged eighty-three years, two months, and fifteen days."

CHRISTIAN READER,

The Author was well known to be a man of great sincerity, a hater of lying, and a great lover of truth, and of long experience and great acquaintance in many parts of the land, especially Cheshire, Warwickshire, and London. My acquaintance with him has been long, though riot much, because of interrupting distances.

On October 23, 1642, little knowing what was doing at Edge-bill, I was preaching in his pulpit at Alcester, on those words, 11 The kingdom of heaven suffereth violence."-My voice hindered me, but the auditors heard the cannon. That night was passed by us in sad watching, with the noise of fugitive troops: the next day, such spectacles being rare and sad, MR. CLARK and I rode to the field to see what was done, where we saw the dead bodies of Englishmen slain by one another. I afterwards lived in Coventry, where MR. CLARK often was; and where his very humble, godly, cheerful old father-in-law, MR. OVERTON, a minister above eighty years of age, was, with many other excellent men, one of my frequent company. Mr. CLARK went to London, and there was pastor of a small parish, Bennet-Fink. When the King commissioned us to treat for concord with the Bishops, he was daily with us, and had the chief hand in drawing up the Exceptions against the Liturgy, at which I was absent.

In 1662, on September 1Oth, he married me in Bennet-Fink church. After that, when the Lord-Keeper BRIDGMAN, by a favorable exposition, drew twenty non-conforming ministers to take the Oxford Oath, he resolved to be one, that he might leave the accusers of them as disloyal no pretence. But to show that he did it not for any worldly advantage, he presently left London, and lived privately at Thisleworth till his death, bearing not only his own low estate with patience, but that of his worthy sons also, who were sufferers with him, ejected by the Act of Uniformity.

I, never saw him since, nor heard that he came to London; but in a letter from him a year before he died, he told me was eighty-two years old. Some deride him for writing Lives with no more art but I take that to be his commendation. He did not make the histories, but received them as made by those who had been faithful acquaintances of the dead: and he was not to patch or paint the dead, nor to add any thing of his own, but to deliver naked truth. JOHN JANEWAY's Life, and JOSEPH ALLEIN'S, I had a hand in publishing and prefacing heretofore: and O that I could reach that heavenly frame of mind, by which they lived and died, in triumphant joy and praise to GOD.

I knew not of his epitomizing my wife's Life; but the manner of that tells me, he is likely to be faithful in the rest. His worthy son added his own Life, which he found written by himself I have desired the bookseller to reprint the Life of the

Countess of Suffolk, daughter to the Earl of Holland, written by Bishop RAINBOW, yet living, as an excellent pattern to ladies; the hook being not easily to be got. It is a great work to learn to die safely and comfortably, even the work of all our lives: my turn is near, and this preparation is my daily study.: but it is the communication of life, light, and love from heaven, that must make all effectual, and draw up our hearts, and make us ready; for which I daily wait on GOD, at the brink of the grave, and door of eternity.

PHILIP MELANCTHON was born at Bretta, in the Lower Palatinate, in the year 1497, of honest parents, by whom he was placed at school, and afterwards sent to Heidelberg at twelve years of age. He commenced Bachelor of Arts at the age of fourteen, with general approbation. After three years' study there, the air not agreeing with him, he removed to Tubingen. He always used to carry his Bible about him, reading often in it both at church and elsewhere; yet was he carried away with the common errors of the times, of which himself says, "I tremble to think with what blind devotion I went to images, whilst I was a Papist." At Tubingen he privately taught the law, and read over very diligently all the books of GALEN and HESIOD. He stayed in that University four years, where he profited so much in the arts, tongues, and philosophy, that he read public lectures in the schools, and was employed in overseeing the press. He studied the mathematics, law, and physic, in all which he profited much; and there he commenced Master of Arts, at the age of seventeen.

LUTHER about that time beginning to oppose the Pope, in August, 1518, PHILIP MELANCTHON was sent for from Tubingen, by FREDERIC Duke of Saxony, to the University of Wittenberg, to teach the Greek tongue. He consulted with CAPNIO, who advised him to embrace the invitation; whereupon, August 25, he came to Wittenberg. About this time ERASMUS wrote thus of him: " PHILIP MELANCTHON is a most learned and excellent Grecian. He is a stripling, if you consider his age; but one of us, if you look upon his variety-.of knowledge, almost in all books. He is very exquisite in the learning of both the tongues. I pray CHRIST that this young man may live long amongst us; he will quite obscure ERASMUS."

He came to Wittenberg when he was but twenty-two years old: there he began to expound ST. PAUL'S Epistle to TITUS out of Greek, to the great admiration of his hearers, who flocked exceedingly to his lectures; and LUTHER also was exceedingly taken-with the same.

In the year 1527, he was employed in visiting the churches in Saxony. In 1529, the Elector of Saxony took him with him to the Convention at Spire, where, by the consent of the Protestant Princes, he drew up a Confession of Faith with great pains and exactness, which by them was presented to the Emperor CHARLES the Fifth.

In 1534, HENRY the Eighth sent to invite him into England, with promise of courteous entertainment, and good preferment; hoping by his means to draw the Protestant Princes of Germany into a league with him against the Pope. But MELANCTHON refused to go, rendering the reason in a letter which he wrote to CAMERARIUS, wherein is this passage; "Perhaps many things are reported amongst you concerning England, that it lieth open now for purer doctrine: but I have intelligence from a good hand, that the King has no great care of the affairs of the Church. Only, this good comes of his rejecting the Pope's authority, that for the present no cruelty is used towards those that are desirous of- better doctrine."

When the wars for religion broke out in Germany, he foresaw, in a dream, the captivity of the Elector of Saxony, and the Landgrave of Hesse, fifteen days before they were taken. And when MELANCTHON did justly bewail those sad times, he was accused to the Emperor as an enemy to his affairs; whereupon the Emperor sent to MAURICE, the Elector, to send him to him, which he refused to do. He was sent also to the Council of Trent; but whilst he stayed at Nuremberg for the public faith,; the war broke out betwixt MAURICE of Saxony, and the Emperor; whereupon he returned to Wittenberg. Shortly after, the plague breaking out there, the University was removed to Tergaw: but he said, he feared not that plague, but a far worse plague, which threatened the ruin of the commonwealth. Whilst he was with the Palatine at Heidelberg, he had news brought him of the death of his wife, who had lived piously and lovingly with him in wedlock thirty-seven years; at the hearing whereof he expressed himself thus: " Farewell, KATE! I shall follow thee ere long." He was very careful beforehand to prepare himself for death, having this distich often in his mouth *.

On the 27th of March, 156O, a short time before his death, be was sent for by the Elector of Saxony to Leipsic, for the examination of those who were maintained by the Elector there for the study of divinity, which examination he had held many years. He continued in that employment till the 4th of April, at which time he returned to Wittenberg.

On the 8th of April, his sickness seized upon him, of which he died. It was a fever, which prevented him from having much sleep that night. Hereupon Dr. PFUCER, his son-in-law, intended to send for CAMERARIUS, between whom and MELANCTHON there had been a strong bond of friendship for forty years. On the 13th, to make an end of his writing, which he was to propose on Easter-day, he followed his study hard that morning, which was the last thing he wrote for his public reading. On Easter-eve he carried it to the printing-house, after which he went to church, and in the afternoon went again to the printing-house, to see how the work went forward. About four that evening he sat on the stairs which led up into his study, leaning upon his elbow; at which time JOACHIM CAMERARIUS came from Leipsic to visit him, and, entering his house, found him in that posture. They saluted each other with great familiarity, and about five that evening his fever seized on him; so that night he had a very grievous fit, yet in the morning he had a little sleep, being April 14th, Easter-day. After which he rose out of his bed, and though he was scarcely able to go, yet he would have read his lecture publicly, which his friends dissuaded him from, considering his great weakness. On the 15th, before dinner, he professed his desire to depart hence, saying, I desire to be dissolved, and to be-with CHRIST."

On the 16th of April, CAMERARIUS was minded to return home, but as they sat at breakfast together, on a sudden such a weakness came upon MELANCTHON, that he desired to go to bed, so that CAMERARIUS laid aside his purpose of departure. On the 17th, CAMERARIUS took his leave of him, commending him to GOD; where upon MRLANCTHON said, " JESUS CHRIST, the SON OF GOD, that sitteth at the right hand of his Father, and giveth gifts unto men, preserve you, and yours, and us all." This night he was very sick, and in his prayers cried out, " O LORD, make an end."

April 18th, he was much pained with the stone. About eight that morning, the Pastors of the church visited him, to whom he said, " By the goodness of GOD, I have no domestic grief to disquiet me, although my nephews and nieces stand here before me, whom I love very dearly. Yet this is my comfort, they have godly parents, who will take care of them as I have done so long as I was able. But public matters affect me, especially the troubles of the church in this evil age: but, through GOD’s goodness,. our doctrine is sufficiently explained and confirmed." Then speaking to the eldest daughter of his son-in-law,. DR. PEUCER, be said, "I have loved thee, my daughter; see that thou honor thy parents, be dutiful to them, and fear GOD,. and he will never forsake thee: I beseech him to defend thee, and keep thee." About nine o'clock he spake to his son-in-law, who was his physician, saying, "What think you of my disease Have you any hope Speak plain." The physician answered, "GOD is your life, and the length of your days, to whom we commend you; but if we look at natural causes, your disease is dangerous; for your weakness is great, and increaseth every moment." " I think the same, (quoteth he,) and am sensible of my weakness."

A while after, he made them search for some sheets of paper, wherein he had begun to write his will, purposing to declare his judgment about all the heads of religion, and to testify it to posterity; but they could not be found whereupon he began to frame it anew, sitting at a table, but through weakness was not able to proceed therein. Only he wrote, that he had twice formerly set down a confession of his faith, and a thanksgiving to GOD, and to our LORD JESUS CHRIST. His mind was sincere and sound to his last gasp, and his brain never more firm. Then he conferred with his son-in-law about the affairs of the University. About six o'clock, letters were brought to him from his friends at Frankfort, concerning the persecution of some good men in France; whereupon he said, " His bodily disease was not comparable to the grief of his mind for his friends, and for the miseries of the church." That night he had very little rest. About two in the morning, he raised himself up in his bed, saying, that GOD had brought into his mind again that speech of PAUL, "If GOD be for us, who can be against us" After which he returned to his former complaints of the calamities of the church: "Yet," says he, "my hopes are very great, for the doctrine of our church is explained." And so he proceeded to earnest prayers and groanings for the church, and then betook himself to rest. About eight in the morning, in the presence of divers Pastors and Deacons, he made three prayers, whereof this was one:

" O almighty, eternal, ever-living, and true GOD, Creator of heaven and earth, together with thy co-eternal SON, our LORD JESUS CHRIST, crucified for us, and raised again, and together with thy HOLY SPIRIT;-who hast said that thou desirest not the death of a sinner, but that he may be converted and live;' and also,’ Call upon me in the day of trouble, and I will deliver thee;'--I confess unto thee that I am a most miserable sinner, that I have many sins, and have been faulty many ways: but I am sorry with all my heart that I have offended thee. I pray thee, for our LORD JESUS CHRIST'S sake, who was crucified, and rose again for us, to have pity upon me, and to forgive all my sins, and to justify me by and through JESUS CHRIST thy SON, thine eternal Word and image, whom, by thy unspeakable counsel, and unmeasurable wisdom and goodness, thou wouldest have to be for us a Sacrifice, Mediator, and Intercessor. Sanctify me also by thy HOLY SPIRIT, that I may truly acknowledge thee, firmly believe in thee, truly obey thee, give thanks Unto thee, rightly invocate thy name, serve thee, and see thee gracious to all eternity, and the almighty true GOD, Creator of heaven and earth, and men, the eternal Father of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, and JESUS CHRIST thy Son, thy eternal Word and image, and the HOLY GHOST the COMFORTER.

O LORD, have I trusted, let me never be confounded.’ Thou has redeemed me, O LORD GOD of truth.' Keep, O LORD, and govern our church, and commonwealth, and this school, and give them wholesome peace, and wholesome government. Rule and defend our Princes; nourish thy church, gather and preserve thy church in these countries, and sanctify it, and join it with thy HOLY SPIRIT, that it may be one in thee, in the knowledge of thy SON JESUS CHRIST, by and for the sake of this thine eternal SON, our LORD JESUS CHRIST."

After this he rested a while. Then the Pastors and Deacons, by turns, read unto him, Psal. 24:, 25:, 26:, Isa. liii., and divers other psalms and chapters. After which he said, " I often think upon that saying of ST. JOHN,’ He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of GOD, even to them that believe on his name.' " After this, for an hour or two, he seemed to do little else than pray; and being at length asked by his son-in-law, whether he would have any thing, he answered, " Nothing but heaven, therefore trouble me no more with speaking to me." Then the Pastor prayed with him, and the others read again; and so, about half an hour after six, he quietly and peaceably gave up the ghost; having lived sixty-three years, sixty three days; and spent, in preaching and writing, forty two years.

PETER MARTYR was born at Vermile in Florence, in the year 15OO, of an ancient and honorable family. His mother, being well skilled in Latin, trained him up in it from his childhood.

He was exceedingly studious, spending no time idle. Arid finding that in the flourishing city of Florence he met with many temptations to luxury, at sixteen years old he entered into a monastery of Regular Canons of St. Augustine, in Fessulae, near Florence. But that which moved him to this was, that he might have leisure to serve GOD, to follow his study, and to benefit himself by the famous library which was in that monastery. There he spent three years in the study of the arts, and of the Holy Scriptures, part whereof he learned by heart. Then he went to Padua, where, entering into a monastery of the same order, be continued nearly eight years, in which time he almost wholly employed himself in the study of Philosophy, spending both night and day in meditating, reading, writing, and disputations. There he heard also the daily lectures of the famous Philosophers, who were Professors in that University; in the mean time spending: whole nights in the library of the monastery, with BENEDICT CUSANUS, the companion of all his studies.

When he was twenty-six years old, the fraternity of that monastery called him to the office of Preaching; and, upon trial, his learning and abilities appeared to be such, that he was honored with the degree of a Doctor. He began first to preach in the church of Brixia, and afterwards in the most famous cities of Italy, in Rome, Bononia, Firmium, Pisa, Venice, Mantua, Bergomum, and Montserrat. And all the time which he could gain from preaching, he spent in the study of Philosophy and Divinity. He preached also privately, and read lectures in the colleges at Padua, Ravenna, and Bononia.

Hitherto he had mostly applied himself to the study of the Schoolmen, yet had spent some time in reading the Fathers, but now he began to employ himself in searching the fountain, the Old and New Testament; and finding that, to enable him thereto, the knowledge of the Hebrew language was necessary, whilst he was vicar to the Prior in Bononia, he procured one Isaac, a Jew, for his master, and applied himself to the study of that language; and though he had little help from his master, yet by his singular diligence, he attained great skill in the Hebrew, and his name grew famous in the chief cities of Italy; whereupon the superiors of his order, approving his diligence, resolved to advance him to some greater dignity, and so, by the consent of all, he was made Abbot of Spoleto; which office when he had once undertaken, he carried himself so excellently therein, that he was admired of all, considering that hitherto he had been only employed in his studies, and yet now showed such admirable wisdom and dexterity in managing the affairs of his monastery.

His prudence appeared conspicuous in these two examples. There were in Spoleto two nunneries, and one monastery of Augustinian Canons Regular, where MARTYR resided. These houses, through the negligence of former Abbots, were so corrupted with luxury and uncleanness, that they were extremely hated by all men. MARTYR, seeing this, by the authority of his office, reduced them quickly into order, by teaching, admonishing, and exhorting, and sometimes by using severe castigation; so that he procured great credit to himself, and love to his order.

The other example was this: the commonwealth of Spoleto, as most others in Italy, was divided into factions, whereupon not only quarrels, but murder often ensued. MARTYR was not ignorant hereof, and yet, looking upon it as his duty, resolved rather to hazard his life, than to suffer Christians thus to tear one another; and it pleased GOD so far to bless his labors, that all the time of his living in that city, his authority, prudence, and eloquence, so far prevailed, that there was neither fight nor murder; no, nor the least footsteps of faction appearing amongst the people.

At Spoleto he continued three years, at the end whereof, by a public convention of the superiors of the order, he was made Governor of the college at Naples, which, for the profits belonging to it, was of great esteem.

In that city, it pleased GOD, that he began to attain more light and knowledge of the truth: for by his study of the Scriptures, through the illumination of the HOLY GHOST, he began to take notice of the errors and abuses which had crept into the church; whereupon (GOD inclining his heart thereto) he began to read some Protestant authors, by which, as he confessed afterwards, he profited very much. He daily also conferred with some friends who were addicted to the study of the Reformed Religion, to the mutual edification of both parties. The chief of these were BENEDICT CUSANUS, his old friend, ANTHONY FLAMINIUS, and JOHN VALDESSOS, a noble Spaniard, made a Knight by CHARLES 5:, who, after he had embraced the truth in the love of it, spent his time in Italy, especially in Naples, where by his life and doctrine he had gained many to CHRIST, and amongst those, several of the Nobility and learned men.

A church being thus, by GOD’s Providence, gathered in Naples, PETER MARTYR joined himself to it; and being desirous to impart that light to others which GOD had revealed to him, he began to expound the First Epistle to the Corinthians, and that with great fruit: for not only the Fellows of his college resorted to it, but many Bishops and Noblemen. But when he came to the words of ST. PAUL, in 1 Cor. 3: 13, " Every man's work shall be made manifest; for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire," and had interpreted them contrary to the received opinion, he stirred up many adversaries against him: for it, is commonly thought that these words imply a Purgatory, whereas MARTYR showed, out of the ancient fathers, that they could not be so understood.

Such as were addicted to the Pope, could by no means endure this interpretation of his; knowing that if Purgatory were overthrown, a great part of their profits would presently cease. Whereupon they accused MARTYR, and so far prevailed, that his lecture was put down; but MARTYR refused to obey this sentence, and, trusting to the goodness of his cause, appealed to the Pope; and at Rome, by the assistance of his friends, he overcame his adversaries: for at that time, he had there powerful friends, such as Cardinal GONZAGA, GASPAR CONTARENE, REGINALD POLE, PETER BEMAO, and FREDERICK FREGOSRUS, all learned men, and gracious with the Pope; who also acknowledged, that the church needed some reformation.

By these men's assistance, he was restored to his former liberty of preaching, which yet he could not long enjoy: for before he had been three years at Naples, he fell into a grievous disease, together with his old fellow student BENEDICT CUSAN us, who died there. But MARTYR, by the goodness of GOD, was (though with much difficulty) cured. Whereupon the Superiors of his order, seeing the air of Naples did not agree with him, in a public convention made him general Visitor of their order; in which office he so demeaned himself, that good men much. commended his integrity, constancy, and gravity; and others feared him, not daring to discover their hatred against him.

Not long after, in a public convention of the Superiors of his order, he was made Prior of a monastery in Lucca. Some out of love preferred him to this place; others, thinking that it would be his ruin; for there was an ancient grudge between Florence and Lucca, the latter suspecting that the Florentines sought to enslave them. But MARTYR, by his excellent learning and virtue, did so bind the hearts of those of Lucca to him, that, contrary to the expectation of his adversaries, himself being a Florentine, he was no less esteemed at Lucca than if he had been born amongst them.

MARTYR, continuing at Lucca, had in his college many learned men, and many hopeful youths, amongst whom he settled such a discipline as might most advance holiness and learning. He took care that the younger sort should be instructed in the three languages; and that together with the Greek they might learn divinity, he daily expounded ST. PAUL'S Epistles to them, and afterwards required them to read over the same; and every night before supper, he publicly expounded one of DAVID'S Psalms.

Very many of the Nobility and Senators, out of the city, resorted to his lectures. And that he might the better plant religion in that commonwealth, he preached to them every Sabbath-day. And what fruit his ministry had may be discerned by this, that in one year's space after his departure out of Italy, eighteen Fellows of that college left their places and the Papacy, betaking themselves to the Reformed Churches. Many citizens also of Lucca went into voluntary exile, where they might enjoy the Gospel with peace and safety.

Whilst PETER MARTYR was at Lucca, there met in that city, the EMPEROR CHARLES 5:, POPE PAUL 3:, and CARDINAL CONTARENE, coming Legate out of Germany; who, for old acquaintance' sake, quartered with PETER MARTYR, and had daily much conference with him about religion. Most men thought he would be in no small danger, by reason of the presence of the Pope; because his enemies would suggest something to the suspicious old man, which might turn to MARTYR's great trouble. But being informed of the snares that were laid for him, and admonished by his friends to take heed to himself, there being many that sought his life, he resolved to convey himself where he might be safe from the power and malice of his adversaries. Therefore, setting all things in order in the college, he privately departed out of the city, with only three companions.

Purposing to visit his own country, he went to Pisa, where to sonic noblemen he administered the Lord's Supper; and meeting there with some faithful messengers, he Wrote to CARDINAL POLE, and to some of his friends at Lucca. In these letters, he showed what great errors and abuses were in the Popish religion, and in the monastical life, with whom he could no longer communicate with a safe conscience. He also stated the other causes of his departure, viz. the hatred and snares laid for him by his enemies.

Coming to Florence, he met there with a godly and learned man, BERNARDINE OCFIINE, who, being cited to Rome, was going thitherwards; but being warned of the danger by his friends, he consulted with MARTYR; and, upon deliberation, both of them resolved to go into Germany.

When he came to Zurich, he was kindly entertained by the Ministers belonging to that city, to whom he proffered his service; but having at this time no place void, they told him, they much desired his company and pains, but for the present had no employment for him. He often used to say, that as soon as he came to Zurich, he fell in love with that city, desiring of GOD that it might be a refuge to him in this his banishment; which prayer was afterwards granted, though in the mean time GOD was pleased to make use of his labors in other places for his own glory.

From thence he went to Basic, where, after he had abode a month, he was called to Strasburgh, and made Professor of Divinity. There he continued five years, in which time he interprets most of the Bible. He was very skilful in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. He had an admirable dexterity in interpreting the Scripture, was, a very acute disputant; and used always to express himself very clearly, knowing that ambiguity of words is the cause of much contention. He lived in most entire friendship with his colleague Bucer.

At Strasburgh, being unmarried, he lived with his friends that came with him out of Italy, being contented with a very small stipend. For having forsaken his country, his honors, and his riches, for the sake of CHRIST, he thought it unfit to trouble any about the increase of his stipend; the rather because he was of a frugal disposition, so that his stipend did not only suffice, but he spared something out of that little towards the support of his friends. By the advice of his friends, he married KATHERINE DAMPMARTIN, who afterwards died in England without issue, having lived with him eight years. She was one that feared GOD, was loving to her husband, prudent in administering household affairs, liberal to the poor, and, in the whole course of her life, pious, modest, and sober. After her death, by the command of CARDINAL POLE, her body was dug up and buried in a dunghill but ill QUEEN ELIZABETH'S days, it was again taken up, and buried in the chief place of the church.

The occasion of PETER MARTYR'S going into England was this: King HENRY VIII. being dead,. and his son WARD 6: succeeding, the latter, by the advice of the Protector, EDWARD, Duke of Somerset, and CRANMER, Archbishop of Canterbury, abolished the Popish religion, and reformed the church according to the Word of GOD; for which end he, thought best to reform the Universities. And PETER MARTYR, being at this time famous for his learning and skill in affairs, was judged most fit for this, empl4yrnent: whereupon the Archbishop, by the command of the King, sent for him over; and in the year,-1547,.by the consent of the Senate of Strasburg, he went into England; BITNARDINE OCHINE accompanying him, who also was sent for by the Archbishop. On their arrival, the Archbishop entertained them in his house, using them with all courtesy and humanity; but after a while, the King sent AUTYR to Oxford, to be Professor of Divinity, where he first began to expound the First Epistle to the Corinthians, because therein were many heads laid down, which concerned the controversies of those times.

The Papists, (whereof there were many at Oxford,) at first, patiently bore MARTYR'S teaching; but some of there, especially the Heads of Houses, labored to restrain the students from going to his lectures, yet proceeded no further. But when he came to declare his judgment about the Sacrament, they could bear it no longer; and therefore, that they might not only procure him envy, but bring him into danger, they began to load him with their usual accusations amongst the vulgar, that he taught contrary to the doctrine of their forefathers, and that he profaned the Sacrament of the altar, and did (as it were) trample it under his feet. Then (without acquainting him with it) they affixed papers upon all their church doors, in English, declaring that to-morrow there should be a public disputation against the real presence of CHRIST in the Sacrament. By this means, on the day following, they filled the schools, and disposed their party in every place, commanding them to make a noise, to raise tumults, and, if need were, to fight with any that should oppose them. Many ran to this sight, not only of the scholars, but of the townsmen; some to see the event of the business, others to assist their friends.

MARTYR, in the mean time, being wholly ignorant of all this, was in his house, preparing himself after his usual manner to read his lecture, till some of his friends (observing the unusual concourse of people) went to him, and opened the whole business to him; entreating him not to expose himself, seeing his adversaries seemed resolved, rather with arms than with arguments, to oppose him. He answered, that he could not neglect his office; that he was never the author of any tumults, as themselves were witnesses; neither would he now give his adversaries any occasion of raising a tumult, for he would' only read ac. cording to his usual custom: "for," said he," there are many amongst them that expect the lecture, to whom I may not be wanting." And so going towards the schools, accompanied with his most faithful friends, there met him a boy from DR. SMITH, who was one of those chiefly concerned. The boy gave him a letter from his master, wherein he challenged him to a disputation. Then did MARTYR'S friends again earnestly solicit him to return home, telling him the danger he was running into. But he was- still resolute; and so~ going to the schools, when his adversaries provoked him, he endeavored, by a modest speech, to quiet them, saying, that he refused not to dispute, but only disliked the time, because he came to read his lecture: and thus having somewhat quieted them, he went, on with his lecture to the great admiration of all. For they who before admired him for his singular learning and eloquence, now much more admired him for his admirable constancy for, notwithstanding the murmurs of the people, and the rage of his adversaries, he went on without the least change of his color, or hesitation, or trembling, or any thing else that might imply the least fear.

Having ended his lecture; his adversaries began again with great clamor to provoke him to a disputation; nor would, they accept of his modest excuse,. when he told them, that he would dispute, but at another time; that he was not now prepared for it, they having concealed their questions from him, without setting them up in public as• they used to do. To this they replied, that he who had read his lectures about the Lord's Supper, could not be unprovided to dispute upon the same subject. Toy which he again answered, that he durst not undertake such a work without acquainting the King with it, especially seeing the thing, tended to sedition. He told them also, that to a lawful disputation was required, that the questions should be agreed on; that moderators, should be appointed, by whose judgment all things. should be -determined; and lastly, that they should have notaries to write the arguments on both sides c "Whereas," says he, " none of these things are ready, are besides, the night draws on, so that we shall want time to discuss so great a controversy."

His adversaries would not k satisfied with these reasons, but were likely to fall together by the ears. Whereupon the Vice-Chancellor interposed his authority, requiring PETER MARTYR and SMITH to meet at his house, with their friends on both sides, where they should agree upon the questions, and the lime and order for disputing; and in the mean time he commanded the beadles to dissolve the assembly; and so taking PETER MARTYR by the hand, he led him forth, and safely conducted him to his own house. MARTYR being delivered from this danger, yet, lest he should seem to decline the disputation, being accompanied with some of his friends, at the hour appointed, went to the Vice-Chancellor's house. SMITH did the like, bringing with him DRS. COLE and OG1.ET11oRr, and three other Doctors of Divinity. At length the questions were agreed upon, and time and place appointed for the disputation, and so they parted; and in the mean time, by their mutual consents, the King was made acquainted with it, who, against the day, sent down his delegates to order the disputation aright. But SMITH, before the day came, fled first into Scotland, and from thence to Loucine, in Brabant. Yet at the day appointed the King's delegates came; and in the presence of these, PETER MARTYR disputed four days with three of the Popish Doctors, wherein he showed excellent learning; and because his adversaries scattered many false reports, MARTYR -afterwards printed the whole disputation.

Not long after, the common people in Devonshire and Oxford shire rose in arms, amongst whom many threatened the death of MAYTYR, so that he could neither read his lectures, nor safely remain in the city. whereupon he was safely conveyed to London; and when his wife an, family could not with safety remain at his house, ’his friends hid the1n, till the seditious multitude- were departed out of the city. For the King, raising two armies, quickly suppressed them, punishing with death the ringleaders of those rebellions; and MARTYR thereupon returned to Oxford to his wonted labors.

But his restless Popish adversaries, who had been formerly beaten with arguments, and durst not again return to arms, yet, to show their spite, often raised tumults before his house in the night, throwing stones at his door, and breaking his windows: wherefore the King, being Careful to provide for his safety, made him Dean of Christ-Church; and so, though he had formerly taken the degree of Doctor, yet he took it again according to the rites of that university.

He was much prized by the King, and highly esteemed by CRANSTER, RIDLEY, LATIMER, HOOPER, and all that loved the truth. CRANMER made much use of him, and took his advice about reforming the Church, and settling the government of it. But when the bloody days of Queen MARY came, wherein the Church was laid waste, and holy men shut up in prisons, MARTYR also was forbidden the exercise of his office, and commanded not to set foot out of his own doors, nor to carry any thing thence. Whereupon he presently wrote to his friends, showing what danger he was in, and pleading the public faith given to him when he was sent for by King EDWARD the Sixth; and by this means, leave being given him, he came from Oxford-to London, repairing immediately to ARCHBISHOP CRANMER, his entire and old friend. About which time a report was spread that CRANHER wagered, and was ready to change his religion; which he hearing of, set forth a writing, wherein he professed himself ready to maintain the doctrine, which was authorized by King EDWARD, to be agreeable to the word of GOD, and the doctrine of the Apostles: and herein he was encouraged by PETER MARTYR, whom the Archbishop chose to join him in defending the same against all opposers. But this was denied, and the Archbishop sent to the Tower.

It was also debated in the Queen's Council, Whether PETER MARTYR should be imprisoned: but after debate, it was concluded, that because he came into England upon the public faith, he should be safely dismissed. Whereupon, sending him public letters signed with the Queen's own hand, he and BERNARDLNE OCHINE went first to Antwerp, and from thence to Strasburg; where be was entertained with much joy by his old friends, and restored to his former place.

Yet there the Devil also raised him up enemies, who suggested to the Senate that he differed in judgment from the Augustan Confession about CHRIST'S presence in the Sacrament of the Lord's-Supper: whereupon he wrote to the Senate, that there was nothing in the Augustan Confession, rightly understood, which he did not concur with, and that if his text at any time should lead him to speak of that subject, be would do it with such modesty that it should be offensive to none. With this answer the Senate was well satisfied: yet his restless adversaries did nothing but asperse him, and seek his disgrace; first more privately, and then more openly, which made him think upon a remove; and GOD in his wise providence so ordered it, that about that time PELLICAN dying at Zurich, the Senate chose MARTYR in his room, and presently sent for him to come to them. In the year 1556, (to the great grief of his friends,) he departed to Zurich, JOHN JEWEL (afterwards Bishop of Sarum) accompanying him. There he was entertained with much joy, both by the Senate, Ministers, and all good men: he at first resided with his old friend BULLINGER, with whom he lived with entire friendship, which continued to their death. Also by his sweet and holy carriage, he won the love of all; insomuch that the Senate, to show how highly they esteemed him, made him free of their commonwealth.

He had buried his wife in England; whereupon, at the desire of his friends, six years after her death, he married CATHERINE MARENDA, who for religion had left her own country, and had a good testimony of the whole church.

As he was highly prized by them of Zurich, so he loved them exceedingly, as may appear by two examples. CELITTS, the Pastor of the Italian church at Geneva, being dead, many of that congregation having been MARTYR'S old disciples, and very dear to him, chose him to be their Pastor, and sent to request his coming to them: many also of his old English friends, that lived as exiles there, much pressed it: yea, and CALVIN also wrote to him, desiring him to embrace the call. MARTYR being thus importunately pressed to remove thither, - and having many engagements to incline him that way, yet referred the whole matter to be determined by the Senate and Ministers at Zurich, and they refusing to part with him, he resolved to stay, notwithstanding all solicitations to the contrary: and afterwards, when, in Queen ELIZABETH’S days, he was much importuned to return into England, and had large proffers made him from the Queen, yet he would not leave his flock till his death.

And how ready he was to be serviceable to other churches, may appear by this example:-the year before his death the King of France had appointed a meeting of the Bishops and Nobility at Passy; whereupon they of the Reformed Religion in France thought it was a very seasonable time to procure a conference about religion, which might tend to the peace and liberty of the Church, Upon this the churches chose certain delegates, which should move for the liberty of religion: and they chose many learned men who should dispute with their adversaries; and because the singular learning and dexterity of PETER MARTYR in disputing was sufficiently known, they in the first place made choice of him for one, and sent to Zurich, to try his willingness to accept of that employment. When he had declared his readiness, shortly after came letters from the King, Queen-Mother, the King of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, and the Admiral COLIGN, to the Senate of Zurich, to desire them to send MARTYR; withal sending him a safe conduct: whereupon he under took the journey, and when he carne to Passy, he wade an oration to the Queen, exhorting her to seek, not only the quiet of France, but of other Churches, by promoting true religion, showing also what a blessing she might expect from GOD thereby. The Queen entertained him kindly, and so did the King of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, and the Admiral of France. But the dardinal of Lorainc sought to hinder the disputation all that possibly he could; yet when he could not prevail, five of each party were chosen to dispute about the LORD's-Supper in private, having only two notaries present; and after several days' disputation, something was drawn up as the result of all, which, with some explanations, BEZA, MARLORAT, MARTYR, SPINA, and the Lord of Sole, subscribed to. But when the same was presented to the Cardinal and Popish Bishops, they complained of their disputants as having consented to that which was heresy; and so by their authority they broke off the disputation, and departed. Whereupon MARTYR addressed himself to the Queen, seeing he was like to do no good there, desiring license to depart, which she consented to; and he returned to Zurich with a large testimony of his worthy carriage, and a guard from the Prince of Conde and the Admiral, for his safety.

Thus having worn out himself with indefatigable labors, and having his spirits much exhausted with grief for the afflicted condition of the churches of France, he fell sick of a fever, made his will, and to his friends that visited him, spake cheerfully and comfortably, telling them that his body was weak, but inwardly he enjoyed much peace and comfort. He made an excellent confession of his faith, concluding thus, " This is my faith, and they that teach otherwise to the withdrawing men from GOD, GOD will destroy them." He gave them his hand, and bade them farewell; and commending his soul to GOD, he slept in the LORD, and was buried honorably, in the year, and in the sixty-second year of his age.

 

THE LIFE OF JOHN CALVIN.

JOHN CALVIN was born at Soissons, a city of France, June 6, 15O9. His father's name was GERARD CALVIN, his mother's JOAN FRANCA; both of good repute, and of a competent estate. GERARD was a very prudent man, and much esteemed. He gave his son a-liberal education from his childhood. From the grammar-school, he sent him to Paris, and placed him with MATURINUS CORDERIUS, a man well esteemed both for probity and learning.

His father, from the beginning, designed him to the study of Divinity, which he judged him to be much inclined to, being religiously addicted from his childhood, and a severe reprover of his school-fellows' faults. And being thus resolved, he procured a benefice of the Bishop for him, in Soissons, in which place JOHN, before his. ordination, preached divers sermons to the people. But this purpose of his was afterwards altered; for his father, seeing the study of the law Was a surer step to riches and honor, altered his mind: and his son growing into acquaintance with a certain kinsman of his, was by him instructed in the true religion; whereupon he addicted himself to the study of the Sacred Scriptures, and began to abominate the superstitious services of the Popish Church.

Upon this occasion he went to Orleans, where PETER STELLA, the most famous lawyer in France, read his lectures, whose auditor JOHN CALVIN was, and in a short space wonderfully profited: so that many times, occasionally supplying his master's place, he rather seemed a Doctor, than a learner in the law: and when he was about to depart, all the Professors in that university proffered to bestow the degree of a Doctor upon him. But all this while he neglected not the study of the Sacred Scriptures, insomuch that there were but few in that city, that were addicted to the Reformed Religion, who did not go to him to be satisfied in their doubts. And some, who were intimately acquainted with him at that time, testified, that his manner was constantly to continue his studies till midnight, and in the morning, as soon as he awoke, to ruminate what he had read the night before, whereby he fixed it in his memory; neither would he suffer himself to be disturbed during the time of his meditation. And the better to fit him for his studies, he always supped very sparingly; by which practice he attained to excellent learning; yet, withal, contracted many diseases.

Whilst he was employed in these studies, he neglected not that of Divinity, so that he preached divers sermons in a neighboring town. But whilst he was thus busied, news came to him of his father's death, which called him back into his own country. Having settled his affairs there, he went to Paris, being now about twenty-four years old. After a few months' stay at Paris, he grew acquainted with all that professed the Reformed Religion; and amongst the rest with STEPHEN FORGEUS, a famous merchant, who afterward sealed the truth with his blood.

From henceforward, at the earnest request of all those that held their private meetings in Paris, he laid aside all other studies, and wholly applied himself to that of Divinity. At this time NICHOLAS CAPE was Rector of the University at Paris, who being to make an oration on All-Saints' Day, at the instigation of CALVIN, spoke of religion more purely and clearly than he used to do. This the Parliament of Paris was angry at, insomuch that they cited him to appear before them, which accordingly he was about to do; but as he went, some of his friends advised him to take heed of his adversaries; whereupon he returned home, and immediately afterwards left France, and went to Basle. The officers sent by the Parliament, searching for COPE, went into CALVIN'S house, who by chance not being at home, they ransacked his study, and amongst his papers found many of his friends' letters, which had, like to have endangered the lives of many. But it pleased GOD to divert that storm by the prudent and pious diligence of the Queen of Navarre, the only sister of King FRANCIS, a woman of aj~ admirable wit, and exceedingly tender of the Professor"' of the Reformed Religion. She also sent for CALVIN to her Court, used him very honorably, and heard him gladly. But CALVIN, finding Paris too hot for his abode, went to Xantone, where sojourning with a friend, at his request he drew up short admonitions, which were dispersed amongst certain priests to be taught to their people, that so their people might, by little and little, be drawn to searching out the truth.

Purposing to bid adieu to France, and traveling through Loraine, he went towards Basle: but being not far from the city of Meton, they fell into great straights; for one of their servants, who had gotten all their money, being mounted upon a swift horse, ran away front them, and could by no means be overtaken, so that they were fait to send their other servant to borrow ten crowns, which with much difficulty carried them to Strasburg, and from thence to Basic.

Some time after, he had a great desire to visit the Duchess of Ferrara, the daughter of Louis Yf l. of France, a woman-famous for her piety; and thereby also to have a sight of Italy. To her therefore he went, and endeavored to confirm her in the truth, so that she loved him dearly all his life, and after his death honored his memory. Returning out of Italy he came into France, where he settle his affairs, and taking along with hilt his only brother, he intended to return to Basic or Strasburg; but all other ways being stopped, by reason of wars, he went to Geneva, without any purpose of staying there. Yet presently after it appeared, that it was so ordered by Divine Providence: for a little before,' the Gospel of CHRIST was brought into that city by the labor and industry of two excellent men, WILLIAM FARRELL, and PETER VIRET.

CALVIN, hearing of these worthy men, went to visit then, to whom FARRELL spake much, to persuade him rather to stay with them at Geneva, than to go any further. But when he saw that persuasions would not prevail, he said thus unto him; " I protest unto thee, in the name of the omnipotent GOD, that if thou proceedest to frame excuses, and wilt not join with us in this work of the LORD, the LORD will curse thee, as seeking thy own, rattler than the things of JESUS CHRIST." CALVIN being terrified with this, submitted to the judgment of the Presbytery and of the Magistrates, by whose suffrages, together with the consent of the people, he was chosen not only their Preacher, but also Professor of Divinity the first he refused, the second he accepted of in August, 1536. He then published a Form of Christian Doctrine, and a Catechism, containing the chief heads of religion; and a public Scribe reading them, the Senate and People of Geneva swore together to those heads of Christian religion and discipline.

About the same time, observing that there were many it, France that knew and were convinced of the truth, and yet indulged themselves, as if it were enough that they reserved their hearts for CHRIST, though they were present at the Popish services, he published two elegant epistles; one to exhort them to flee from idolatry, the other, on the Popish priesthood. But whilst he was thus employed, he met with grievous seditions at home.

The Gospel indeed was entertained, and Popery abjured, in Geneva; but many were not reformed from the profane and scandalous courses which they had learned of tine Popish Clergy; and- the ancient feuds amongst the chief families were not yet laid aside. These at first were gently admonished, and, when that prevailed not, more sharply reprehended; and when yet they continued stubborn, and the city, by the factions of private persons, was divided into parties, FARRELL, CALVIN, and CAROLDUS, did openly profess that they could by no means administer the, LORD's-Supper to persons who were at such bitter enmity amongst themselves. Upon this occasion, the Syndics which were chosen for that year at Geneva (who for the time are the chief Magistrates) assembling, the captains of the seditious persons so far prevailed, that these three worthy servants of CHRIST core commanded within two days to depart the city. When this decree was brought to CALVIN, he said," Truly if I had served

men, I should have had but an ill reward; but it is well that I have served Him who doth always perform to his servants what he has once promised."

Who would riot have thought, that this business must needs have brought destruction upon the -Church of Geneva But the event showed the wonderful wisdom of GOD; partly in employing the labors of these his servants elsewhere, by variety of experiences to fit them for greater employments; partly that the seditious persons in Geneva overthrowing themselves by their own violence, that Church might be purged from many pollutions. So wonderful doth GOD show himself in all his ways, especially in the government of his Church.

CALVIN went to Basle, and thence to Strasburg; where, by the desire of the Senate, he was made the Professor of Divinity, which office he discharged with the great applause of learned men; and by the consent of the Senate, planted the French church there, and settled discipline in it. Thus was the expectation Of SATAN frustrated, CALVIN settled in another place, and a new church erected. At this time CARDINAL SADDLET, a man of great eloquence, seeing the flock deprived of such able and vigilant shepherds, thought it a fit time to ensnare them;

But now the time was come wherein the LORD purposed to show mercy to his poor church at Geneva: for one of the Syndics, who had promoted the decree for their banishment, did so misdemean himself, that being found guilty of sedition, whilst he thought to escape out at a window, he fell down, and so bruised himself, that within a few days he diet]: another of there had his head cut off for a murder: the other two having done the commonwealth much disservice in an embassy wherein they were employed, were fain to flee their country, and were condemned in their absence.

Those evil instruments being removed, the city of Geneva began to call for FARRELL and CALVIN: but when by no means they could recover FARRELL, they used all their endeavors to procure CALVIN; and for that end sent ambassadors to Strasburg. The Senate of Strasburg were exceedingly unwilling to hearken to it; and CALVIN himself, abhorring to enter into new troubles, and finding that the LORD blessed his ministry at Strasburg, did absolutely refuse to return. Besides, Bucer and the other Pastors did profess their great unwillingness to part with him. But the Genevians still pressing hard for him, BUCER at last thought that their requests should be condescended to, which yet was not granted by CALVIN, till they had urged him with the judgment of GOD in case he refused, and with the example of JONAH. This falling out just at the time when CALVIN, with BUCER, was going to the Diet at Ratisbon, his return was delayed for a time; and in the mean time the Genevians obtained PETER VIRET; which made CALVIN far more willing to return, when he saw that he was to have such a colleague. Accordingly, after some months, CALVIN went to Geneva, Sept. 13, 1541, being singularly welcomed by the people, and especially by the Senate, who acknowledged the wonderful mercy of GOD towards them, in restoring him to them. And whereas the Senate of Strasburg had decreed, that after a time he should return to them again, they of Geneva would never give over till they had reversed that decree, which at last was yielded to by them of Strasburg; yet with this proviso, that that pension which they had settled upon him should still be continued to him. But he could never be persuaded to receive it, caring for nothing less than for riches. CALVIN, being thus restored to his church, and perceiving that the city needed such bridles, professed that he could not comfortably exercise his ministry amongst them, except, together with the doctrine of the Gospel, they would embrace the Presbyterian government, for the well regulating of the Church. Hereupon Elders were chosen, and a model of government was drawn up.

His ordinary labors were these:-every other Sabbath he preached twice: Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, he read his Divinity Lectures: every Thursday he assisted in the Consisting for the exercise of ecclesiastical discipline: on Fridays he read a Lecture for the illustration of difficult places of Scripture. Besides which, he wrote many commentaries upon the Scriptures; answered many adversaries to the truth; and wrote many letters to sundry places. So that we have cause to wonder how it was possible for one man to perform so much business.

And in addition to these labors, he had also the charge and care of a family, and many foreign concerns; for GOD so blessed his ministry, that from all parts of the Christian world he was sought to, and many came to hear him preach; so that, at the same time, there was an Italian church, an English church, and a Spanish church, and the city seemed too little to entertain all that came to it for his sake.

In the following year, 1542, CALVIN met with many afflictions; some at home, but especially by the fury of the adversaries of the truth abroad, in France and Italy, whence they drove away many professors of the Gospel; for the comforting of whom he laid out himself exceedingly, writing many encouraging letters every way, both to those who had escaped, and to those who yet remained within the lion's jaws.

In 1545, the plague, increasing in the city and neighboring villages, seemed as if it would devour all before it; and covetousness so prevailed with the poor people, who were employed to attend the rich in their sickness, and to cleanse their houses, that, by a horrible conspiracy amongst themselves, with an infectious ointment they anointed the posts, thresholds, and doors of many houses, whereby a more grievous pestilence ensued. These wicked instrument of the Devil had bound themselves by oath, that by no torments they should confess their wickedness: yet many of them, being taken in the city and villages, were punished according to their deserts.

This year was also infamous by that abominable and cruel edict which the Parliament of Aquitaine set forth against the poor Waldenses of Merindol, Cabriers, and those parts, whereby unheard-of cruelties were exercised, not against some few, but against all of them, without any distinction of age or sex. Some of those who escaped having fled to Geneva, CALVIN was the more afflicted for them, and careful of them, because, a little before, he had written consolatory letters to them, and sent them faithful Pastors, and had also (where they were in danger before) preserved them by his intercession with the German Princes.

The next year, 1546, one of the Senators, in a public assembly of the people, blamed CALVIN as one that taught false doctrine; suborned (as was supposed) by two of the College of Pastors, both of them being drunkards, and therefore fearing the severity of the laws. But CALVIN made little account of this. Yet the man that accused him was called before the Senate, and, his cause being beard, was condemned for slander, and those two drunken Ministers, who had set_ him on, were removed out of their places.

The troubles of that year being ended, the next year, which was 1547, proved far worse: indeed that age saw not a more calamitous time than this was:-the Churches of Germany seemed to be utterly subverted, the Protestant Princes taken, and cities yielding up themselves, after so great labor used, and so great difficulties passed through, in planting the Gospel amongst them. With what grief CALVIN was afflicted for the desolation of the churches, it is not easy to express, especially if we consider that great affection which he bore to them, though far remote from him, which indeed was no other than if he had borne them all upon his shoulders. Indeed, he was wonderfully grieved when he heard of those holy men, his worthy friends, PHILIP MELANCTHON, BucER, PETER MARTYR, &c., in so great danger, that they seemed nearer death than life. In the midst of these contentions, the Church of Geneva did wonderfully increase, and CALVIN was very solicitous to entertain and provide for such as were banished for the name of CHRIST.

In the year 155O, the Church of CHRIST enjoyed peace, and then it was decreed in Geneva, that the Ministers, -lot only in their sermons, which many neglected, and others heard with small profit, but from' house to house, should divide the city amongst them, and require of every family an account of their faith;. by which means, t is scarcely credible how great profit came to the people.'

In the year 1553, MICHAEL SERVETUS, having published a book filled with errors, was, at Vienna, cast into prison for the same. But making an escape, he came to Geneva, thinking to pass further; but being discovered, and CALVIN acquainting the Magistrates with it, they cast him into prison. Many means were used to bring him to repentance; but when he would not be brought to recantation, he was condemned to death, and, upon the 27th of October, burned alive.

About this time a grievous calamity befell the church of England by the death of KING EDWARD 6:, which was a grievous wound to all the Reformed Churches. Soon after, the care of the English exiles lay heavy upon CALVIN; for some of them had come to Emden, and others to Frankfort, all sending to him for advice and counsel. How great pains he took this year for several churches, may appear by the multitude of epistles wrote by him, by which he stirred up many noblemen to embrace the gospel, and strengthened many of the brethren, some of whom were in extreme danger, and others already cast into bonds.

The next year, 1556, a tertian ague seized upon CALVIN as he was preaching. Hereupon many false rumors were spread abroad, which were so grateful, especially to the Papists, that at Soissons, in his own country, the priest had returned public thanks for his death. But the prayers of good men prevailed for his health, and he was so far from dying of that disease, that, being increased in strength, he undertook a longer journey than be was used to do, viz to Frankfort, being invited thither to pacify some controversies, which had sprung up. Returning home, though somewhat impaired in his health, he yet remitted nothing of his daily labors, publishing the next year his Commentaries upon the Psalms.

At this time a grievous persecution rising at Paris, it was a great affliction to CALVIN; many being taken when they were assembled in St. James's-Street, for the celebration of the LORD's-Supper, being about eighty in number, the rest escaping by the benefit of the night; who, the next morning, were led to prison, loaded with scorns and reproaches, though some of them were noble women of good account. Against these sheep of CHRIST the King's anger was inflamed, not only by those about him, but by the very occasion of the times: for this fell out at the same time when the King's army had received such a notable defeat at St. Quintin. Besides, these persons were forced to meet in the night, because they could not do it in the day, which further irritated him. Hereupon those old scandals were raised against them, which charged the Christians as the cause of all the evils which befell the kingdom.

There were also some false witnesses suborned against them, whom the credulous multitude was too apt to believe. There were therefore seven of them brought forth to be burned, amongst whom was a noble woman, who, with six others, showed admirable patience and whereas they were accused of promiscuous whoredoms at their meetings, a learned man, who had lately been their Pastor, easily confuted those lies; and the German Princes interceding in their behalf, (which CALVIN procured with admirable celerity,) the tempest was in a good measure blown over.

In October, CALVIN was taken with a quartan ague, which, though it held him but eight months, yet so debilitated his lean and over-worn body, that he never thoroughly recovered his health again. Yet all this time, though his physicians warned him, and his friends dissuaded him, did he continually busy himself, night and day, in dictating and writing letters every way, often saying, That nothing was wore troublesome to him than an idle life."

The year following, viz. 1559, was famous for the league entered into between the two most potent Kings of Spain and France, strengthened by affinity betwixt them, which was likely to prove fatal to Geneva. In the mean time CALVIN, though sickly, labored hard in comforting the afflicted churches; as also, by his frequent and fervent prayers, craving help of GOD. And behold the wonderful work of GOD! Whilst all things were full of terror, the King of France, in the great marriage-solemnity which was made for the confirmation of the peace, in his running at tilt, received his death's wound, and that by the hand of the Captain of his guard, by whom, a little before, he had apprehended and imprisoned several senators.

About this time, the Bohemians sent two of their brethren to CALVIN, to desire his judgment about some matters of religion; whom he lovingly satisfied, exhorting them also that they would enter into a nearer conjunction with other Reformed Churches. At the same time also, Queen MARY being dead, and Queen ELIZABETH succeeding, many of the French, relying upon her piety and humanity, fled for refuge into England, with the consent of that reverend man, EDMUND GRINDALL, Bishop of London; and craved leave of her that one might be sent from Geneva, to plant a French church there.

Towards the latter end of this year, King FRANCIS, of France, died suddenly, and that in such a juncture of time, when all things seemed so desperate, that they could not be cured but by GOD - himself: and King CHARLES 9:, a child, was scarcely entered into his kingdom, when, by a herald, letters subscribed with his name were brought to Geneva, wherein he complained. that many were sent out from thence, that infected his kingdom, desiring that they might be presently called back; and threatening, that otherwise he would revenge that injury. CALVIN, being hereupon sent for by the Senate, answered in his own, and in his colleagues' names, that, at the request of the churches of France, they had exhorted certain men that were sound in the faith, and of a holy life, that they should not be wanting to lend their help to their country in so holy a cause;. and that this they had done, not to disturb the kingdom, but that the people might be taught the Gospel of peace; and if they were accused for any thing further than this, they were ready to answer their accusers before the King. So this business went no further.

In the year 1562, GOD gave peace and liberty to the French churches, by a public edict of the King. But not long after, the King of Navarre, presently after the Duke of Guise had committed the abominable massacre at Vassy, began that civil war which continued many years after, to the miserable devastation of France. It cannot be spoken how much CALVIN was afflicted therewith, which so far increased his disease, that it was easy to divine, that it would not be long before he was translated to a better life; yet did he not desist from exhorting and comforting every one, no, nor from preaching and reading his ordinary lectures. One thing also is not to be omitted, that on the 19th of December, lying in bed sick of the gout, being the Sabbath-day, and the north wind having blown two days strongly, he said to many that were present, "Truly I know not what is the matter, but I thought this night I heard warlike drums beating very loud, and I could not persuade myself but it was so: let us therefore go to prayers, for surely some great business is in hand." And that very day there was a great battle fought between the Guisans and the Protestants not far from Paris; news whereof reached Geneva within a few days after.

In the following year his disease much increased; yet even then he could not be persuaded to favor himself; and if at any time he abstained from his public labors, which yet he never did but when by necessity he was enforced thereto, yet he was busy at home, either in giving counsel to those that sought it, or in dictating to his scribes.

In the year 1564, February 6, he preached his last sermon, and from thenceforward spake little; only now and then he would be carried to the congregation, the last time being the last day of March. His diseases, contracted by the incredible labors both of his mind and body, were very many; for, besides that, naturally, he was but of a weak body, lean, and inclinable to a consumption, he slept little, and spent a great part of the year in preaching, teaching, and dictating. For at least ten years together, he abstained from dinners, taking no food at all till supper; so that it was a wonder how he could escape so Ion ~ He was often troubled with the head-ache, which his abstinence only could cure; whereupon he sometimes fasted thirty-six hours together. But partly through straining his voice,. and partly through his too frequent use of aloes, (which was taken notice of too late,) he was first troubled with the piles, which at length proved ulcerous; and, for five years before his death, be did many times spit blood. And when his quartan ague left him, the gout took him in his right leg; then the colic, and lastly the stone.

The physicians applied what remedies they could; neither was there ever a man that was more observant of their rules. But in respect of the labors of his mind, he was extremely negligent of his health, so that the most violent head-ache could never restrain him from preaching. And though he was tormented with so many and violent diseases, yet no man ever heard him utter one word unbecoming a Christian: only lifting up his eyes to heaven, he used to say, “How long, Lord" For he often used this motto in his health, when he spake of the calamities of his brethren, which always more afflicted him than his own. When his colleagues admonished and earnestly entreated him, that in his sickness he would abstain from dictating, but especially from writing himself, he answered, "What! would you have me idle when’my LORD comes" On the 1Oth of March, when all the Ministers came to him, they found him clothed, and sitting at his little table where he used to write and meditate: he beholding them, when he had rubbed his forehead awhile with his hand, as he used to do when he meditated, with a cheerful countenance, said, “I give you hearty thanks, my dear brethren, for the great care you take of me, and I hope within these fifteen days (which was the time they were to meet about church censures) I shall be present at your Consistory: for then I believe GOD will declare what he will determine concerning me, and will receive me to himself." Accordingly he was present that day, which was the 24th of March, and when all their business was dispatched, he told them that GOD had given him some further delay; and taking a French Testament in his hand, he read some of the annotations upon it, and asked the Ministers their judgments about the same, because he had a purpose to amend them. The day after, he was somewhat worse, as being tired with the former clay's labor.

On the 27th of March, he caused himself to be carried in his chair to the door of the Senate-House; and then, leaning upon two persons, he walked into the Court, and there he presented to the Senate a new Rector for the school, and, with a bare head, returned them thanks for all their favors, and in particular, for the great care they had of him in his sickness: "For I perceive," said he, "that this is the last time that I shall come into this place." Which words he could scarcely utter, his voice failing him: and so, with many tears on both sides, he bade them farewell.

On the 2nd of April, which was Easter-day, though he was-very weak, yet he caused himself to be carried to the church in his chair, where, after sermon, he received the Sacrament of the LORD'S-Supper at BEZA's hands; and with a cheerful countenance, though weak voice, sang the psalm with the rest of the -congregation, showing, though in a dying countenance, signs of much inward joy.

On the 25th of April, he made his will in this form " IN the name of GOD, Amen! dnno Christi 1564, April 25, I, PETER CHENALAT, Citizen and Notary of Geneva, do witness, that being sent for by that reverend. man, JOHN CALVIN, Minister of the word of GOD in the church of Geneva, who then was sick in body, but sound in mind, he told me, that his purpose was to make his testament, and to declare his last will, desiring me to write it down as he should dictate unto me, which I did, word by word, as he told me; as follows:

" In the name of the LORD, Amen! I, JOHN CALVIN, Minister of the word of GOD in the church of Geneva, oppressed and afflicted with divers diseases, so that I easily think that the LORD GOD has appointed shortly to lead me out of this world; have therefore determined to make my testament, and commit to writing my last will in this form following, “I give thanks to GOD, that, taking pity of me, he has delivered me out of the deep darkness of idolatry into which I was plunged, and that he brought me into the light of his Gospel, and made me a partaker of the doctrine of salvation, whereof I was most unworthy. Neither has he only gently and graciously borne with my faults and sins, for which I deserve to be rejected by him, and driven out; but has used towards me so great mildness, that he has vouchsafed to use my labors -in preaching and publishing the truth of his Gospel. And I witness and profess, that I intend to pass the remainder of my life in the same faith and religion, which he has delivered to me by his Gospel, and not to seek any other aid or refuge for salvation than his free adoption, in which alone salvation resteth. And with all my heart I embrace the mercy which he has used towards me for JESUS CHRIST'S sake, making compensation for my faults with the merit of his death and passion, that satisfaction may be made by this means for all my sins, and the remembrance of them may be blotted out. I witness also and profess, that I humbly beg of him, that being washed and cleansed in the blood of that most high Redeemer, shed for the sins of mankind, I may stand at his judgment-seat under the image of my Redeemer.

"Also, I profess that I have diligently done my endeavor, according to the measure of grace received, and the bounty which GOD has used towards me, that I might preach his word purely, both in sermons, writings, and commentaries, and interpret his holy Scripture faithfully. I also witness and profess, that I have used no artful and sophistical means in my controversies and disputations, which I have held with the enemies of the Gospel, but I have been conversant candidly and sincerely in maintaining the truth.

"But, alas! that study and zeal of mine, if it be worthy so to be called, has been so remiss and languishing, that I confess innumerable things have been wanting in me to the right performing of my duty; and unless the immeasurable bounty of GOD had been present, my studies had been vain. Also, I acknowledge, that unless. the same bounty had been present to me, the goods of the mind, which GOD has given me, would have made me guilty of the greater sin before his judgment-seat. For which causes I witness and profess, that I hope for no other help for salvation but this only, that seeing GOD is a Father of Mercy, he showed himself a Father unto me, who acknowledge myself a miserable sinner.

"As for other things, after my departure out of this life, I would have my body committed to the earth, in that order and manner which is usual in this church and city, till the blessed day of resurrection cometh."As touching that slender patrimony which GOD has given me, I have determined thus: let ANTHONY CALVIN, my most dear brother, be my heir; but, only for honor's sake, let him take beforehand, and have to himself, the silver charger which was given me by VARANNIUS for a gift, wherewith I desire him to be contented: For whatsoever things remain in mine inheritance, I request and commit them to his faith, that he return them to his children when he shall die. I bequeath ten pieces of gold to the school of boys; also, the same sum to poor strangers; and the same to JOAN, the daughter of CHARLES COSTAN and of my kinswoman. But to SAMUEL, and JOHN, the sons of my, said brother, I desire to have forty pieces of gold given by my heir when he dieth; to ANNE, SUSAN, and DOROTHY, his daughters, thirty; to DAVID their brother, because of his lightness and miscarriages, but five-and-twenty. This is the whole patrimony and goods which GOD has given me, so near as I estimate it, setting a price upon my library, my moveables, and all my household goods. If there be found any thing above, I would have it to be distributed to all those childre4 the sons and daughters of my brother: neither do I exclude DAVID, if he prove a good husband. If there shall be any surplus above that sum, I believe there will be no great matter, especially when my debts are paid, the care whereof I have committed to my said brother, upon whose fidelity and love I rely. For which cause I will and appoint him to be the executor of my testament, and, together with him, the worshipful LAURENCE NORMENDY, giving them power to take an inventory of my goods. I also permit them to sell my moveables, that out of the money made thereof they may execute my will above written. Dated this 25th of April, anno Christi 1554."

When this Will was made and confirmed, CALVIN sent to the four Syndics, and all the Aldermen, desiring to speak with them all yet once more in the Court before his death, whither he hoped to be carried the next day. The Senators answered, that they would rather come to him, desiring him to have a regard to his health: and the day after, when they came all to him from the Court, after mutual salutations, and professing that he had long desired to speak with them, he said, "Honored Masters, I give you great thanks that ye have honored me thus far, having not deserved it from you, and for that you have so often borne with mine infirmities; which to me has always been an argument of your singular good-will towards me. And albeit in performance of mine office, it could not be but that I must undergo many bickerings, and divers assaults, because every good man must be exercised therewith; yet I know and acknowledge, that none of these things have fallen out through your default; and I earnestly beseech you, that if I have not always done that which behooved me, you rather would have regard of my will than of my ability. For I can truly testify; that I have been heartily studious of the welfare of your commonwealth; and howsoever I have not fully performed mine office, yet I have studied the public good according to mine ability; and except I should acknowledge that the LORD has used my service, sometimes not unprofitably, I could not avoid the crime of dissembling. But this I request of you again and again, that I may be excused by you, for that the things are so little that I have publicly and privately performed, in comparison of those things which it behooved me to have done. Certainly of mine own accord I acknowledge, that I am much indebted to you for this cause also, that ye have patiently borne with my too much vehemency sometimes; which sin also I trust GOD has forgiven me.

" As touching the doctrine you have heard from me, I take GOD to witness that I have sincerely taught the word of GOD entrusted unto me, whose wrath I should otherwise have felt now hanging over me, as I am certainly assured that my labors in teaching it have not been displeasing to him. And I testify this the more willingly, both before GOD and you, because I doubt not but that the Devil will raise wicked people to corrupt the sincere doctrine which you have heard from me."

Then considering the unmeasurable benefits which GOD had conferred on that city, he said: I am a witness out of how many dangers the hand of the great GOD has delivered you. Moreover, you see in what estate you now are; therefore whether your affairs be prosperous or adverse, let that be always before your eyes, that GOD is He alone that establisheth kingdoms and cities, and therefore will be worshipped by mortal men. Remember what great DAVID doth testify, that when he enjoyed a deep peace, he fell most foully, and should never have risen again, if GOD of his singular goodness had not reached out his hand to him. Ye have need of great humility, that ye walk circumspectly and with great reverence before GOD, and trust him only. Wherefore, if prosperity befall you, take heed, I pray you, that ye be not puffed up, but rather give thanks to GOD with lowliness of mind. But if adverversity shall happen, and death stand before you, yet trust in him that raised the dead; yea, then especially think, that ye are stirred up by GOD, that ye may more and more trust in him alone. And if ye desire that this your commonwealth may be preserved in a firm estate, see that you be not defiled with filthiness. I know the dispositions and conversations of every one of you, and I

know that you have need of exhortation. There is none of those that excel most, in whom many things are not wanting; therefore let every man ask of the LORD those things which he understands himself to stand in need of, We see what vices reign in the greatest councils in the world; some are cold, and neglect the public, taking care only for their own private affairs; others are indulgent to their private affections; others use not the excellent gifts which GOD has bestowed upon them; others boast of their own parts, and expect that every man should subscribe to their opinions. I exhort old men, that they envy not the younger, whom they find adorned with excellent gifts from GOD: I admonish the younger, that they carry themselves modestly, without arrogance; and let not one molest another. Avoid contentions, and all that bitterness of spirit, which diverts many from the right way in the government of the commonwealth. And ye shall the better avoid these things, if every man contain himself within his own sphere, and all administer faithfully that part of the commonwealth which is committed to him. I pray you, for GOD’s sake, let there be no place for favor or hatred in the judgment of civil causes. Let none pervert right by subtle tricks: let no man hinder the laws from prevailing let no man depart from that which is just and equal. If sinister affections shall arise, let him resist them constantly, looking upon Him that has placed him in his throne, and beg of Him his HOLY SPIRIT. To conclude, I beg of you again that you pardon mine infirmities, which I acknowledge before GOD, angels, and men."

Having thus spoken, he prayed unto GOD, to multiply his gifts and blessings upon them more and more, and to govern them by his HOLY SPIRIT, for the safety and good of the commonwealth. On the 28th of April, the Ministers of Geneva being come to him, he spoke thus unto them: `" Brethren, After my decease, stand fast in this work of the LORD, and be not discouraged; for the LORD will preserve this church and commonwealth, against the threatenings of the enemies. I pray GOD to keep you from dissensions. Embrace one another with mutual charity. Think again and again what you owe to this church wherein the LORD has placed you, and let nothing divert you from your duty; otherwise it will be easy for such as seek them, to find out evasions; but such shall find that GOD cannot be deceived. As soon as I came to this city, the Gospel indeed was preached, but affairs were very troublesome; and there were not a few wicked persons, from whom I suffered many things; but the LORD our GOD so confirmed and strengthened me, though by nature I was not bold, that I gave not place to any of their endeavors. Afterwards, when I returned hither from Strasburg, I followed this vocation with an unwilling mind, because it seemed to me that it would prove unfruitful; but going on, at last I found that GOD had much blessed -my labors. Stand fast therefore in this your vocation. Retain that order that is begun, and do your utmost endeavors that the people may be kept in subjection to your wholesome doctrine: for some are wicked and stubborn. Things, as you see, are, through GOD’s mercy, well settled, and therefore you shall be left without excuse before GOD, if, through your slothfullness, they be unsettled again. I profess, Brethren, that I have lived with you in true love, and that I now so depart from you. If you have found me peevish in this my disease, I crave pardon of you, and give you great thanks that ye have sustained the burden imposed upon me during my sickness." Having thus spoken, he gave his band to each of them, who departed from him with much sorrow and weeping.

A while after, CALVIN understanding, by letters from MR. FARRELL, that MR. VIRET, who was eighty years old, and sickly, was yet determined to visitt him, and was now on his journey, he wrote thus to him, to stay him. May 11, 1564.

Farewell, my best and sincerest brother; and seeing GOD will have you to outlive me in this world, live mindful of our friendship, which, as it has been profitable for the Church of GOD here, so the fruit thereof carrieth for us in heaven. I would not have you weary yourself for my sake. I hardly draw my breath, and I expect daily when it will wholly fail me. It is enough that I live and die to CHRIST, who is gain to his people, both in life and death. Again, farewell."

Yet, notwithstanding this letter, the good man came to Geneva, and having fully conferred with CALVIN, returned back.

The rest of his days he spent almost in perpetual prayer, with his eyes fixed upon heaven, and his voice full of sighs, by reason of his short breath. On the 27th of May, he seemed to speak more strongly, and with less difficulty; but this was but a lightening before death. In the evening, about eight o'clock, on a sudden, signs of present death appeared; at which time, BREZA being newly departed from him, some ran to acquaint him therewith; whereupon be presently returned, but found him to have yielded up his spirit into the hands of GOD, without the least struggle, yea, without so much as sending forth one groan, having had his understanding, memory, and voice, even to the last. So that day, at sun-setting, this bright light was taken out of the world.

That night, and the day following, there was great weeping and wailing all over the city. Many citizens and strangers desired to see him after he was dead. The day after, being the Sabbath, his body was put into the coffin, and in the afternoon he was carried forth, the Senators, Pastors, and Professors of the School, and almost the whole city, following the corpse, not without abundance of tears. He was buried in the common church-yard, without much pomp, no tomb-stone being added, as himself commanded.