The Lives of Twenty-Two Eminent English Divines, Biography 7 · Letter

The Lives of Twenty-Two Eminent English Divines · Biography 7 · Letter

p. 48His Letter to Master Bearblock about that charge.Master Bearblock, I was informed by some of your Christian Auditours at Strowd, that in your forenoons Exercise, you took occasion p. 49in the repetition of your former Sermon, to adde thereto something in bitter terms, against some Heretical Doctrine lately broached in some neighbour-Church; which divers of your most charitable, and the most of your judicious hearers, conceived to be directed against me. At the first, I had no cause easily to entertain the report, because I was no way guilty to my self, so much as of the least shew of any occasion given unto you, to break out in that manner against me; and did presume you had better learned the Laws of Charity, then in such an open manner to traduce a fellow Minister of the Gospel, before you were better possessed of the cause. Besides, I thought, that reproachfull reports, that have been bruited against your self, should have taught you, if you be innocent, that a Minister of the Gospel may be much abused and mis-reported of, both for life and doctrine; and therefore that you would not teach by your own practice me or any other thus in open manner, to make the reports of men a sufficient Text to preach against your life, as you have made them to preach against my Doctrine. But since that time I am given to understand, that you have given it out at one Master Morelands Table, that I was the man; that you then before God and his holy Angels endicted and arraigned; and that of no lesse a crime then gross Heresie; and that some of your Congregation were purposed to proceed in Law against me for it. You know there was a Law, (and it were well if it were now in force, to bridle distempered tongues) that if one were accused of a crime, which could not be proved, the Accuser should suffer the punishment due to that crime; and then Master Bearblock, if heresie deserve a punishment, if you should but accuse me of that, which methinks you have already condemned me of, your back should bear the punishment of two Heresies. For first, it is most untrue that I have taught any such Doctrine; and secondly, if you could not prove that Doctrine, as I know you cannot, this you here so tax to be heresie, your Doctrine that calleth it heresie, deserves no less lege Talionis, then heresie; which I speak not so much in regard of your weakness, as in grace of the strength of the cause; wherein though with the dim eye of mine own judgment I could see nothing, yet I have cause to be confident, in regard of their judgment whose shadows it would become you and me to give room unto, yea, and to run away from. And I am verily perswaded, that though some of your spirit may be found to judge it an Errour to hold, That a bare Reading Minister, is not a lawfull Minister before God; yet that none that deserves the name of a man of judgment, will push with such horns against it, as you do, that it is an heresie, and that a gross and abominable one. I would I might be worthy to know, upon your better consideration of the point, whether that heart of yours, that set your tongue on fire so against this poor Heresie, would serve to set fire to the pretended Heretick. But blessed be God, that Supream Authority keepeth the fire-brands from the hands of such furies; else there were some p. 50cause to fear, lest the Saints of God (I give them no other title, then your own conscience gives them, nay then your own mouth in publick hath given them) should find your hands as hot, as they now feel your tongue; for methinks in your Divinity, to make but a question of any thing in Religion established by Law, is no less then Treason and Heresie. There must be some Mystery in it, that every poor man must not presume to look into; that one that is so full of charity towards Adulterers, Drunkards, Blasphemers and other sinners that swarm in the Church, should be so fiery against these new Hereticks of your own making. What? Are they of all other past hope of repentance? Or do not the mercies of God, wherewith your mouth is so oft sugred, of all other, belong to them? My self on the week-day am one of your Auditours, and I hope, none of the worst-minded, and then you seem (as oft as ever I heard you) as if your soul did overflow with Charity towards us all. You cannot be ignorant of the words that so often were in your lips; That none that hear you, but they are Gods faithfull Children; That though they be foul, grievous sinners, yet they are repentant, and Gods mercy belongs unto them; That no man is without sinne, but the best and holiest are unclean. This hath been your tenor for this half year; the Sermon is yet to come, that ever with the least zeal you spake against lewdness of life: And yet now how full of zeal are you against errours in Doctrine, of this sort especially? whereas considering the slanders that run of you, (for I call them so, as I desire for the Gospels sake they may prove) you could take no better course, then to be most zealous in Doctrine against those sins, that fame hath gone about to brand you withall; and to condemn such with your own mouth to hell, rather then to set open Heaven gates so wide unto them, as you use to do; as though your self were out of hope of Heaven, except the lewdest of your Congregation go to Heaven. I may be bold being the injured party, and knowing you better then you me, to take this leave to tell you thus much of your self, who have so freely given leave to your self, to speak to others worse things of me; that if the Lords judgments should pursue me so fast, that mine inward corruptions should break out into notorious crimes, and yet should dare for all that to exercise an holy Ministry; that then of all methods of teaching that ever I heard, I would surely follow yours. To keep you from advantage, I acknowledge the Doctrine that you have taught in my hearing to be very sound and true: But this is it that I affirm, and you may keep it to your self if it please you, that in dealing against sinne, in all the Sermons I have ever heard you, you have said no more in substance, then what you shall have alwaies running in the wickedest mouthes; That All men are sinners; That the godliest do fall seven times a day; That men must not despair of Gods mercy; That they are sorry for it, when they have done; That it is their corruption of nature, &c. which are all very excellent and comfortable Doctrines to a broken heart, but very poyson to an impenitent; p. 51so that if a Minister should preach them to the stews, he should have as many applauses and Amens there to them, as any where else. If therefore a foul life be as abominable in the eyes of God and man, as false Doctrine; if this zeal of yours against false Doctrine were of God, you would blow as strong a blast against the other, as you do against it, and a stronger too, considering that the other having borrowed the wings of fame, is flying continually in your own face: This, if you could have let me alone, would never have bitten you. But to draw to an end, if my bare deniall, and the voices of them, that with best understanding heard me, and are best able to repeat the heads of that Sermon, can perswade you, that there was no such Doctrine then delivered, I hope you will satisfie that Congregation, whose ears you have abused with that report; and especially the Gentleman, to whom you related the particulars. If you cannot be moved to this; yet be contented, sith you say the Law must proceed upon me, to stay the proceeding of your tongue against me, till you have tried me guilty or not. If you tannot yield to this, but have a purpose to pursue the matter, let Religion over-rule you thus far, to deal with me in the points by private writing. But if you have resolved to go on in this indirect course, openly thus to injure me; do it I pray you, in your weekly exercise, that I may not trust to the report of others, but may be a witnesse to my self of mine own abuses; and then I shall know the better how to satisfie you. It is the humour of most of your stamp, under pretence of a zeal to her Majesties proceedings in matters of Religion, to take your liberty of speech against some, that are perswaded some things might and should be reformed, if the State had leasure to look into them: and you know it full well, that such as you are, shall find ears enough to receive your accusations against such; else upon equall ground you would not be so confident, thus hand over head to condem as good Subjects (without any disgrace) as your self, of no less then Heresie and Treason. As for my self, I thank God, I have had that care, both of mine outward conversation and Doctrine, that none of any civility, I trust, shall find a face to reproach me for the one, nor any of any judgment in Religion, will accuse me of the other. And as for those Reports, that are given out against me, out of yours and others mouthes; your shame shall send them home again, and I will wear them about my neck as Chains and Garlands. In particular, for your self, (though I desire the love, acquaintance, and favour of any well-gifted Minister) it will be no great disgrace to me, to sit at home without your countenance, except your self were in greater countenance with them that truly fear the Lord. Thus leaving you at this time to a better spirit, then that which set you so greedily on work against me, I commit you to the grace, mercy, and pardon of God; and my self to his wise direction, hereafter to take heed, how I give mouthes, so readily open to reproach my Ministry, any just and direct occasion.

Chatham the last of April 1602. Your Fellow-labourer and Minister in p. 52the Lords work, desirous of peace, and if it were possible, of love also, William Bradshaw.

This Letter, though somewhat large, it seemed not amisse at full to relate; because it representeth to the life, both the Character of many such Teachers, as were forwardest to oppose Gods faithfull Messengers in those times, and the manner of their teaching, which the most of our Antinomian party that give out themselves as the only Gospel-Preachers, The Antinomians practice.come so near unto now adaies; and the most unequall and unchristian courses also, that were by such then commonly practised, to work them into disgrace with the people, and to procure trouble to them from the State. But the malice of the man stayed not here; which of it self for ought he was able to do, was not much to be regarded. For being netled by this Letter, upon consultation had with some of his complices, a Knight of note in that County, a man of some parts of learning and wit, but of loose life, utterly averse from, and adverse to the profession and practice of piety, was by them procured, to come down from Rochester, A Spie sent to entrap him.where he then was, to Chatham on a Lords day, to hear Master Bradshaw, and that for no other end, but to pick somewhat, (if it might be) out of his teaching, for which, upon his information against him, (a practice most unworthy a man or his rank) his mouth might be stopped, or he inhibited at least from farther imployment in that place. And according indeed to their wicked design and ungodly desire the plot proceeded. For, whereas Master Bradshaw being then entred upon the handling of the story of Christs Temptations (related by two Evangelists; on which his Sermons, much desired by many that heard part of them, and though not fully perfected by him, yet by some small supplies being made up, may peradventure hereafter see light) had observed, that this was the main scope of Satan in his first encounter, to bear our Saviour in hand, that howsoever he had been put in some hope by a voice, as from Heaven, that he was the beloved Sonne of God; yet God by his present neglect of him, and leaving him in such difficulties, destitute of all necessaries, did thereby manifest that he did not respect, or regard him at all; hereupon he took occasion to admonish all true Christians, to arm themselves diligently against this temptation, and to strengthen their Faith in the assurance of Gods favour towards them, care of them, and undoubted truth of his Promises made to them; using this as an Argument to incite them unto the greater care in this kind; for that (said he) If this temptation do once fasten upon us, that we shall come by Satans sleights to be perswaded, that there is no such matter, that God hath no such respect or regard unto us; it cannot but cool our love unto God. Which words of his,He is falsly accused. very wholesome and good, the Knight perverting and misreporting, enformed underhand against him, that he should deliver, That a man was not bound to love God, unlesse he were sure that God loved him. He is summoned before the Bishop.Hereupon Master Bradshaw was shortly after, by a short note under Doctor Buckeridges hand bearing date May twenty six 1602. and directed unto him at Chatham, made acquainted, that it was the pleasure p. 53of his Lords Grace of Canterbury, and his Lord of London (the main prosecutor of the business against him) that he should the next day by nine of the clock appear personally before them at Shorn, He is summoned before the Bishops.a Town situate between Rochester and Gravesend: whither accordingly he repaired, and there appearing, after some questions moved, and answers thereunto returned, the Bishop of London began to charge him with teaching of false and ungodly Doctrine, such as had been suggested by the Knight before-mentioned; whereunto when he answered Negatively, relating withall truly and sincerely, what he had delivered, and offering to produce not a few of good credit, who could and would testifie what then he taught, that would not be admitted; London affirming, that what had been enformed, was averred by such, as were able to conceive, being learned; and to understand aright what it was that he delivered, and received it not by report from others, but had been ear-witnesses of it themselves. However at last to strike all dead sure,Subscription made a snare. subscription was tendered to him; whereat they knew he would stick: which because he professed that he could not condescend unto, they inhibited him to preach any more at Chatham, and having bound him to appear, when he should be farther called upon, for the present so dismissed him. The next Lords day was one suborned,He is suspended from Chatham. in the habit of a traveller, to repair early in the morning to Master Bradshaws lodging at Chatham, who asking to speak with him, pretended that he came on purpose out of his way to hear him, and demanded of him whether he preached that day or no? whereunto he answering, that he did not,Another Spie sent to entrap him. being by authority inhibited, he made shew of much sorrow, as being frustrated of his expectation, but he was descried to be no other then a Spie, sent to found Master Bradshaw what he intended to do; so greedy were they to have farther ensnared him, if by any meanes they might. The same day Master Bearblock was observed at Strowd, as triumphing after a Victory atchieved against some great adversary, to have appointed to be sung before his fore-noon-Sermon, the former part of the 27. Psalm. Those of Chatham much affected with the inhibition of their faithfull Teacher, and grieved in their souls for the restraint of that precious food, which they had formerly received from him, were not backward to use what means they might for the taking off of the inhibition, and removal of the restraint. To this purpose a Supplication was framed in the Name of the Parishoners of Chatham unto the Bishop of Rochester their immediate Diocesan, in these words; Right Reverend Father, and our very good Lord, The Inhabitants of Chatham Petition for him to the Bishop.If we were not by manifold triall and long experience assured of the love that you bear, and the care that you have over that flock, which the Lord hath committed unto your charge, we could not with so good hope and comfort, as now we do, become Petitioners unto your Lordship in the behalf of our too much wronged Preacher Master Bradshaw; Unto whom, in sincrity of a good conscience we do voluntarily yeeld this testimony, that he is a man so farre in every respect from desert of those misreports, wherewith his causelesse adversaries have endeavoured to incense your good Lordship against him, as his p. 54accusers have been from the remembrance of that duty, which they ought to bear to your Lordship, whom they have abused with sinister and unjust informations; his Doctrine alwaies holy, wholesome, true, and learned, utterly void of faction and contention; his life so throughly garnished with unblemished vertues and graces, as malice it self cannot reprove, or suspect him; directing all his labours only to the beating down of sin and wickednesse, the comfort of the faithfull, and the instruction of the ignorant, without intermedling at any time, with the needlesse and conceited controversies of this factious age. May it therefore please your good Lordship with favour (according to your wonted goodnesse) so to tender this your little poor flock of Chatham, as to restore unto us our vertuous and faithfull Teacher; lest otherwise we be as sheep without a Shepherd. Which being obtained, we your humble Suppliants will account it so great a blessing of God from the hands of your Reverend Fatherhood, as that we shall hold our selves bound faithfully to pray unto the Almighty, for your good Lordships endless prosperity. This their Petition after their own frame conceived, is the rather here inserted, to shew their reverend estimation of Master Bradshaw, and their earnest desire to have retained him still with them. But the business was in higher hands. London was the man that must do it, if ought were done. With whom Master Chaderton going up to London upon occasion of some Colledge-affairs, promised to deal in Master Bradshaws behalf; and in likelihood did: but (as appeared) without success.

Thus was this blessed Servant of God tossed to and fro, and could not be suffered to abide long in any place; though a man of peaceable carriage, a most meek and humble spirit, and a kinde and loving disposition.Gods Providence for him. But Gods pious providence over his, and gracious provision for them, never faileth. He is oft working for them, when they least see it, and where or whence they least look for it. He was then preparing a retiring and resting place for him, when he seemed to be now utterly out of hope of any.He departs from Chatham. For being now driven from Chatham, he came up to London, whence after some short stay with a Friend, having at present no employment, he thought good to look down into Leicestershire to visit his Friends there. And he indeed intended the journey only as a visit: howsoever the Lord in his hidden disposal, unknown unto him, had a farther aim in it then he was then aware of, as by the event appeared, and he afterward took speciall notice of, and did thankfully acknowledge. For upon his coming down into those parts, by the good hand of God, using that his worthy servant of blessed memony, Master Arthur Hildersham (as formerly sometime, so now again) as an instrument therein, he was brought into some notice with, and commended unto one Master Alexander Redich, a religious Gentleman, then residing at Newhall, an house of note, situate neer to Burton upon Trent, in the confines of Darbyshire, He is setled at Newhall.Leicestershire, and Staffordshire. He not only received him into his house, but obtained also for him from the then Bishop of Coventry and Litchfield, being a moderate man, a Licence to preach in any part of his Diocess: which favour and liberty, being p. 55by a Present of Venison at first procured, and afterward maintained by a yearly gratuity of a brace of Bucks out of the Gentlemans Park, Master Bradshaw without any interruption enjoyed in those parts during that Bishops life, yea, and after too, without any trouble (a light and short storm only excepted, and that soon again laid, the year before his decease, (whereof somewhat hereafter) unto the time of his releasement. For his entertainment there,His small means of Maintenance. though the means allowed him were very small, in regard that the Gentlemans estate was much encombred, and he by reason thereof disabled to do what he otherwise desired; the Lady Ferrers his Wives Mother yet surviving, who had an estate for life in that part of the Land, which was to come to his Wife, whereon he then resided; nor in regard of Religion (for a strong and zealous Papist she was) so well-affected towards them, being forward another way; and some other part of it, by concealment of some Evidences being wrongfully detained from him, as in process of time upon discovery thereof did evidently appear.His contentation. Yet the small pittance that was allowed him, together with their kind carriage toward him, and the loving affection to him that he found generally in the Family, did give him very good content. For in a Letter to an inward Friend he professeth, that he found both the Gentleman, and his Wife, very tender-hearted and sincerely Religious so kind unto him, His Letter to a Friend about it.as his heart could not desire more; and that in gifts they were otherwise beneficial unto him; and the truth is, (saith he, for you have his own words) it is impossible to find more love in a place, then I do find more and more both of great and small in the House: so that the Lord, I see, hath not clean forsaken me. And in another to the same party; Never let your mind be troubled about the smallnesse of my Maintenance, it is more then he from whom it cometh can well spare yet; His humility.as much as my labours upon them deserve; and more then many of my betters have. To adde hereunto some farther matter of encouragement and contentment, he withall signifieth, that the Lord had blest him there with a most kind neighbour, (abiding in a house not far from thence with the Lord Paget) a young man of Oxford, and a Londoner by birth, one Master Hassal, a man of very rare parts for all kind of learning, of most prompt and ready speech, and of a very courteous and affable disposition. With him he entertained familiarity, and maintained a good correspondence, while they abode so neer together. For he was not nice to imbrace acquaintance with any moderate man, of endowments especially; and very forward to take notice of the good parts of others, and to set them out as occasion was offered, to the utmost: so far was he from that malevolent humour so rife with too many in these times, of extenuating or blurring the endowments and abilities of others; such especially as do not in every particular conceit, though but groundlessely oft fancied, comply with themselves; as also together with his ingenuous composure of spirit, his pious disposition may herein be observed, in taking notice of, and acknowledging a passage of divine providence in every accommodation, that might any way, or in any measure, improve the comfort of his present condition.

p. 56But that the great moderation of mind in one of such worth as was this Servant of Christ, may the better appear, we shall compare the means of maintenance afforded him, and his employments, whereof he professed before, not to deserve so much as so small a pirtance amounted unto the one with the other. That the allowance was very small, may very justly be deemed, when his friends were so much troubled and grieved, to think that one of his endowments should be driven to accept so low and slender conditions: and the truth is, as by his own relation appears, the allowance at first agreed upon, was but ten pounds by the year, his diet, fire, candle, and all kind of attendance, as himself draws it out at length to make the most of it. That which is here specified, not in any wise to asperse the Gentleman, whose present condition would not then well afford better termes; and yet shewed his good will by free addition to what he stood engaged for, even in his first year of abode with him; and afterward also, as charge grew upon Master Bradshaw: though means were not much amended with him, yet strained himself unto a farther enlargement, as hereafter shall be shewed; but to manifest the excceeding, and almost unparallel'd modesty of the man, esteeming his labours beneath so poor an allowance. For his employments that himself so much undervalued, what were they? Besides his private exercises at set times performed in the Family; he preached at first constantly twice every Lords day in a Chappel of some capacity,His great pains. belonging to the Gentlemans House, and situate within the Park wherein the House stood; and afterward, when the resort from other parts more remote, grew so great, that the place could not well contain them; (that the more might enjoy the fruit of his Ministry, and with the more ease to them, though the less to him and the Houshold) he was easily induced, the Governours of the Family, out of their religious disposition, well approving thereof, and condescending thereunto, to bestow his labours, as he had before done in the Chappel, in a more publick place, at a Parish-Church (where a Reading Vicar only was) at a Village called Stapenhill or Stapenhall, about a mile distant from the place of his abode. And this he did constantly for above twelve years at least, at such times as the Gentleman abode with his Family at Newhall, which was the principal place of his setled abode: receiving for such his pains among them, no consideration at all from the people of the place;Monstrous ingratitude. (the most of them deeming him more beholden to them, for coming and staying to hear him, then themselves to him for coming to preach to them; and some of them complaining, that they had lost many a good Pistle and Gospel for his Preachings;) save that on the Lords day for his better ease and refreshment, between his forenoon and afternoons employment, he was usually entertained at the House of one Master Alexander Buckley, who had sometime belonged as a Bayliff or Steward to Master Rediches Family, and whose Wife Mistress Anne Buckley, a very sweet natured, humble and godly woman, was both a Mary and Martha to him, no lesse diligent to attend his teaching with the one, then sedulous p. 57to make fitting provision for him with the other; and that some of the better affected sort among those that heard him, would now and then gratifie him with some kind of Countrey-courtesies, when he kept house by himself.

Having thus spent above a twelvemoneth or more with Master Redich, his thoughts began to be more solicitously renewed concerning that businesse of marriage propounded to him at Chatham, and so farre forth, as hath been formerly shewn, embraced then by him; which in regard also of some other emergent occasions had hung hitherto in suspence. This to proceed in and consummate he much desired, not so much in regard of himself, as in regard of the other party, who had been held in expectation thereof so long already, and might deem it some wrong, if it should be still so delayed. But how this might consist with his continuance in Master Rediches Family he was not able well to conceive; and how very loath he was to part with a Family, where he had found so much love. Howsoever he resolved to break the matter unto them, before he would proceed any farther therein, that if no fit means of compliance there could be contrived, he might with their good leave look out for some other place of employment, and they have some convenient space of time for the fitting and furnishing of themselves with some other to succeed with them in his room. Upon relation hereof, according to such his resolution, (having taken a fit time for it) made unto them, enforming them truly and freely in all circumstances, how the case stood with him, and how he stood affected towards them, it was strange to see (it is in his own words related) how great affection they shewed to bear unto him, expressed even with teares; that on no condition he must depart from them; such course should be taken, as that, when he should in that kind change his condition, he might still conveniently and comfortably abide with them. Whereunto he subjoyneth; And this indeed is the first hour of my solid comfort, that the Lord hath vouchsafed me a standing place, where I may settle my self. And indeed God was pleased to work in some particulars somewhat strangely and unexpectedly, beyond what he was then able to foresee or forecast, toward the farther acomplishment of his desire in this kind; as hereafter shall be shewed.

Mean while Master Redich being by occasion of businesses drawn up to London, and having taken some lodgings for himself and his retinue neer unto Christ Church, with purpose to make stay some good space of time in the City, Master Bradshaw abiding there with him, was requested to preach sometime at Christ Church: which accordingly he did, and that with such approbation and good liking of the well-affected in the Parish, that the afternoons Lecture there becoming vacant, albeit Doctor Milward a man of some note in those times stood for it, yet by the greater number of votes, in a Vestry purposely for that end assembled, Master Bradshaw was chosen to be their Lecturer;He is chosen Lecturer at Christ Church London. though not having sought it himself, but having been without his privity propounded by some such of them as had been much taken with his former p. 58Sermons. But the will of God (it seems) was, that he should still adhere to that Family, which he was fallen into, and where he had found so much affection; that which to his dying day also he did. For though by some of those, who earnestly desired him, great means were made to the Bishop, Bishop Bancrofts malice.yet would he in no wise condescend to give way thereunto. Yea, such was his malignity against Master Bradshaw, that having cited him, but by a wrong forename, to appear before him, to answer for preaching in his Diocesse without his Licence; (in which regard also the Church-wardens were checked and threatned that suffered it) upon his non-appearance he proceeded so far, as to send out an Excommunication against him; which he for the mistake before-mentioned, little regarded; only by advice, for some time kept out of the way, untill the Bishops translation, or evection rather, unto the lofty pitch of his Primacy, which shortly after did ensue.

During his stay in these parts, looking down to Chatham, he there consummated that businesse, which hitherto had been delayed. And in regard that Master Redich with his Wife and retinue were by reason of his urgent affairs in divers kinds likely to continue for a longer space of time in the City then at first was expected;His marriage. Master Bradshaw having brought up his Wife with him from Chatham, did for a while board her with a sister of hers, before married and seated in the City, and afterward took part of a tenement for himself and her, who being a woman that affected employment, for their better support, taught there a few Scholers. Much about this time, by occasion of that formall conference acted and transacted at Hampton-Court, wherein some of our chief Prelates endeavoured to possesse the Kings Majesty with a prejudice against those that made suit for a Reformation of things amisse in Church-affairs, (his disaffection to whom he had himself also in some writing of his partly discovered already) and to perswade him, that for Ecclesiastical affairs all things were so well setled, that no Reformation needed,Conformity strictly pressed but some strict injunction only of a precise conformity unto, and constant observation of things already established; which began thereupon in many places with much vigor to be pressed; It came to passe that many Books came abroad, being privately printed, wherein divers godly Ministers, who were of a contrary judgment, declared their grievances, laid down their exceptions, set forth their grounds of dissent, and returned answer to the Arguments produced and urged against them to induce them to Conformity. For Books of this nature search was made in the City; for one, more especially among the rest, that had (it seems) given our great Clergy-Masters most offence, and Master Bradshaw being known to abide then in the City, a man in much suspition with them, two Pursuivants, accompanied with Master Norton the Kings Printer, were sent with Commission to search his house both for it and him. Whither accordingly repairing, but not finding him at home, they enforced his Wife to open his Closet or Study, the Chests, Trunks, Boxes and Presses, to make search for such Books, but found nothing. For the truth is, (and there was a good Providence of God p. 59in it (after that Master Bradshaw was that morning gone out, not above half an hour before that this business fell out,Gods good providence over him. his Wife looking into his Study, and seeing some of those Books there, to prevent future danger, (which yet she then little deemed or dreamed to be so near at hand as it proved to be afterward) had taken them out from thence, and cast them into a hole between two Chimneys, where being covered over with old besomes, they remained undiscovered. But howsoever they could meet with nothing of that which they looked for, yet on his Wife they seized, who would rather have had him;The trouble of his Wife. her they took and led unto Doctors Commons, where having presented her before Doctor Stanhop, Doctor White, and a third party, whom she knew not, a number sufficient to make up a compleat High Commission Court; they examined her, yet without oath: first, Where her Husband was? whereunto she answered, she knew not; then, What meanes of Maintenance she had, and from whom? to which she made answer, that she gat her living by her work, and teaching of a few young Children; after that, What Children she had? she told them, none yet; but one she hoped in her belly, being then great with Child: which was her first-born Sonne, now a Minister of the Gospel, afterward born in that House they then dwelt in, in Thred-needle-street, and baptized in the Church near thereto adjoyning, where the Minister of the place, somewhat thick of hearing, by a mistake, instead of Jonathan, naming him John, which name therefore he bare afterward, and doth to this day. But after divers such questions to little purpose propounded and answered, in conclusion they told her, that they knew well enough that the Book they then searched for▪ was none of her Husbands making, though he might have a hand in the venting of it; and withall, that if they had been disposed, they could have had him, for all his keeping in a Lancashire Gentlemans house. So they termed Master Redich, Gods mercy.because his own Lands of Inheritance lay in those parts. Thus hauing parlied with her, they dismissed her, not suffering those greedy Harpyes the Pursuivants, who were eager upon her for their fees, to exact ought from her; only binding her at a daies warning to appear again before them.

Thus through Gods goodness and watchfull eye over his Servant, too regardlesse in some sort of his own safety, having escaped the snare that was set for him, he returned after some space of time, Master Rediches main businesses being now dispatched, together with him and his, unto their former place of abode at Newhall, taking his Wife and little one together also along with him. Being there arrived, the Gentleman both enlarged his maintenance,His return to Newhall. and assigned him and his Wife certain Chambers in his own House conveniently furnished▪ as also herbage in the Park for a certain number of Kine, and of Swine, and some Poultry, together with a convenient room for a Dary, wherein she might exercise her huswifery; which she very well could do, and accordingly did. Now while they thus lived together in Master Rediches House, Master Bradshaw went on cheerfully in his wonted p. 60course, both of private exercises for the instruction of the Family, and of publick employment on the Lords day for the benefit of others also abroad. But the old Lady Ferrers, Mistresse Rediches Mother, a woman of a great spirit, and a resolute Papist, though not an absolute professed Recusant, could by no means brook Master Bradshaw, and the lesse now because married, and for that he had brought his Wife also to live with him in House with them: yea she had conceived such an extream hatred against him, professing to hate him above any man in the world; that she had made a vow, that she would never set her feet in the house where he was; and it was therefore feared, not without some just ground of suspition, that the Family might from her fare the worse for him. But the hearts of all men, and women also, are in Gods hand, and he can wind and turn them which way he will: and when a mans waies do please the Lord, he can, if he see it good, yea, doth oft, when he seeth it will be for the good of his, make of his utter foes, his Friends. And even so fell it out here. For the Lady notwithstanding this her extream disaffection, so deeply rooted, and so vehemently expressed, yet in processe of time being enduced by some that were in credit and repute with her, to visit her Son-in-law and Daughter, and make stay for some time (which they much desired) in house with them; and being withall informed and assured by them of Master Bradshaws mild and moderate demeanure, and his meek, kind, and lowly carriage, she was overwrought by them, contrary to that her former unnaturall and irreligious engagement, to repair thither, and take up her lodging with them: where it pleased God withall, not long after her accesse thither, (being now an eye-witnesse her self of what she had formerly heard by report of him from others) so to alter that her former disaffection to Master Bradshaw, and to cast it into a clean contrary mould, that all that beheld and observed her carriage on all occasions towards him,The Lady Ferrers respect to him though a Papist. wondered exceedingly at it, to see so strange an alteration, and such not unexpected only, but unusuall carriages in her. For, albeit she were otherwise, a Gentlewoman, as of very proper and personable presence, and in that regard much admired by the Scottish Queen that suffered here, whom she also much affected, so of her self no lesse forward to take and keep state; yet she used Master Bradshaw with very much courtesie and complement, at table drinking to him, and carving for him; resorting twice a day constantly to prayer with him and the Family, and speaking reverently of him; yea whereas formerly she could not be induced to hear any of our Ministers preach; howsoever for fashion sake, and to escape penalty of Law, she might sometime repair to hear the Liturgy read; yet was she content to hear Master Bradshaw, and commended his Sermons. Which the better to work upon her, he wisely framed to such subjects as he deemed would best serve,His prudence in his Ministry. to take off such false imputations, as are wont by the adverse party to be cast upon our Profession and Preaching, as if we were utter enemies to mortification and good works. For first out of Matth. 5.16. he took occasion to speak of the necessity and nature of good works; the ground from whence they spring, p. 61and the end that must be aimed at in them; and after that out of Psal. 51. of repentance and mortification, with both which discourses she seemed to be very much affected. What farther work these things had upon her after her departure thence, we are not able to say; but certain it is, that while she abode there, she seemed to be much better disposed, not towards Master Bradshaw only; but (contrary to what was formerly feared, and strongly suspected) toward her Son-in-law and Daughter also. For before she went thence, she sealed them a Lease for three years, of the Land they held from her, with abatement of an Hundred pounds by the year, of the rent formerly paid, and a remission of thirty pounds by the year besides, otherwise accruing to her, (God might blesse the House for his Josephs sake) and her continued good opinion of, and affection to Master Bradshaw she farther manifested, by her free consent, to have an House built for him and his Wife to live in, on a parcell of land that she had interest in; which was accordingly with as much speed as might be, not long after effected. Then which (saith he, so modest and moderate were his affections for the things of this life) I desire no more worldly things, then that I may be setled in that little House, and rest there in quiet, which these times give small hope of.

This he conceived the lesse hope of, because the Bishop under whom he had hitherto lived quietly, about this time, deemed not like long to continue; and indeed shortly after deceasing, it was given out, that Bishop Neal, translated from Rochester, was to succeed (that which he much dreading, in divers of his Letters had oft up, Lord keep us from Rochester) and so he did indeed, though not immediately; yet not long after. For Doctor Abbots Dean of Winchester, who came in between them, sate not long there, but before many moneths expired, stept from Litchfield to London. But Bishop Neal was the man, whom all the pious, as well private men as Ministers, in these parts mis-doubted would do the most mischief.Bishop Neals malice. And indeed presently upon his entrrnce, that boisterous Prelate began in so fierce and furious a sort to bestir himself, and kept such a busseling and blustering among them, that (howsoever one that then abode thereabout, writing somewhat freely of him, saith, The more he shufflled in his Lions skin, the more he made his Asses ears to appear, and exposed himself to derision and contempt even with the meanest) yet it was by the most feared, that unlesse God in much mercy should put a ring into his Nose, he would in likelihood root up all effectual means of piety, within the precincts of his power. And the rather had Master Bradshaw cause to expect little favour, all rigour rather that might be, from him; in regard of some neighbouring loiterers, that should have been labourers, as he was, in the Lords work; who not enduring to see others affected and followed, for doing that, which they should have done, but did not themselves, were therefore bitter enemies to him, and were in great grace with the Bishop. Besides that, it was reported, that the Bishop was minded to reside some space of time at Drakelow, a place not far distant from Newhall; p. 62whose neighbourhood was like to prove no more beneficial to Master Bradshaw, Gods Providence over him.then the brass pots company in the Fable to the earthen pitcher. But, as dangers oft befall us, where we least mis-doubt or suspect ought, much lesse expect any; so (the Lord on that wise disposing things for the safety of his servants, and the enuring of them to a constant dependance on his providence) it falleth out sometime on the other side, that we prove least assailed or annoyed from thence, whence we have been most affrighted with the greatest expectation of much damage, or sore distresse. So it fell out with Master Bradshaw here. For, howsoever in one of his Letters he manifesteth his fears to that purpose, that in regard of the considerations before-mentioned, he much doubted that Zone would be too hot for him, yet in another afterward he signifieth that he had not as yet heard ought from him, or of any complaints that had been made to him against him. Nor indeed doth it appear that he was at any time after molested, or disturbed in the exercise of his Ministry by either of them, by what means soever the Lord was pleased so either to represse or divert, as well the malice of the one, as the might of the other, that neither of them should fasten to any purpose upon him, untill the year before he died.

About this time Master Redich bestowed his eldest Daughter Mistress Grace Redich in marriage with Sir Robert Darcie, Son and Heir to Sir Edward Darcie a Kentish Knight, a very religious Gentleman, in great favour and repute with that Illustrious Prince Henry, of rare parts, and great hopes, of whom this land was not worthy, and one that highly esteemed Master Bradshaw, as he justly deserved. He making his abode most at Newhall untill his Fathers decease, (where his Lady a very gracious Gentlewoman according to her name, not inferiour to her Husband, either in piety, or in sincerity of affection to Master Bradshaw, was the second time delivered of twins, and became Mother of four Children, within compasse of a year) Master Bradshaw by his company there received much comfort and encouragement in the work of his Ministry, and furtherance also in his Studies. For Sir Robert being a Scholar and studious, had a Library furnishnd with many of the best Writers, as well in Divinity, as in other kindes of literature, whereof Master Bradshaw had the free use; and he brought also upon his motion divers other on purpose, that might be usefull for him. And this his affectionate and courteous carriage to Master Bradshaw, toward whom he ever demeaned himself with much reverence and due respect, was continued by him untill his decease, which did not many weeks precede Master Bradshaws.

In the year 1613. it pleased God to take from him that worthy Gentleman Master Redich his Patron, who in a very holy and Christian manner at Newhall departed this life. His frequent removals from Newhall to Longford, another house that had befallen him in those parts not long before his decease, was occasion of much distraction to Master Bradshaw, now setled with his Family at Stanton Ward near to Newhall; but his decease much more: Concerning which he thus writes, among p. 63other things in a Letter to a Friend;His Letter about Master Rediches death Master Rediches decease hath made an heavy alteration in this Family; and for mine own estate, Mistress Redich giving over house, as she intendeth to do, and to live somewhere hereabout, as privately as she may, for the better discharging of her Husbands debts, it will be the lesse comfortable, and more chargeable to me then it hath been. But I am willing for her good to undergo any thing. Master Redich on his death-bed was willing to have assured me of something during my life. But the force of his disease did so grow upon him that he could do nothing. If God lend Mistress Redish life, till the debts be discharged, or a sure course taken for them, I hope she will, if it lie in her power: for she hath promised so to do; and I assure me, she will do her utter most to effect it. But whatsoever fall out, I trust I shall be content, having been hitherto at the Lords finding; who hath shewed himself at all times a loving Father to me his unworthy Child; and our time here, though it be full of wants, is but short. Thus it pleased the Lord to inure this his Servant to a dependance from day to day for provisions upon his Providence; and as a grave man of God sometime said, Whereas many other have, and eat their bread stale; to receive his bread, Note.and eat it daily new from his hand; that which he also, you see, was very well content to do. Mean while the good Gentlewomans incumbred and unsetled estate she was left in, being to take course for the payment of her Husbands debts, and to compound for the Wardship of her younger Daughter, who was afterward matched to one of the Lord Chief Justice Cooks Sons, could not but exceedingly distract Master Bradshaw, as well as her self; and drew him up to London together with her, oftner then he had any mind of himself, or desire thereunto. But from that Family the main means of his maintenance accrued; and to it therefore he constantly addicted himself, as in duty he deemed himself obliged to do. At Stanton Ward, not far from Newhall, as was before intimated, his Family still abode in the little house there built for him: Where, while Mistresse Redich abode in those parts, or when he had any liberty to get down from these parts, while she was longer then usually detained in or about the City; he went on constantly in his wonted course, teaching freely at Stapenhill every Lords day, as formerly he had done. Only in the year 1617. coming down from London, (upon what occasion, or through whose instigation, uncertain) he was welcomed home by the Bishops Chancellour a corrupt man,He is inhibited from preaching. with an inhibition to preach there, till he heard further from him. But by the mediation of a couple of good Angels, the one from himself, (so willing and forward was he to redeem his liberty, for the benefit of others,But soon restored. without advantage to himself) and the other from a Friend, the Chancellour was soon pacified, and the restraint removed; whereby it appeared that the Prohibition proceeded principally from his own avarice, rather then from mis-information from any thereabout, or injunction from above.

Amidst this his restlesse and distracted condition, and constant pursuit of his religious employments, the Lord was preparing a place of p. 64setled rest for him, and a royall reward in the highest Heavens, for his faithfull service here upon earth, drawing on apace now to its utmost period. For in the year 1618. being come up from Stanton, to attend Mistress Redich, while he lodged with her at Chelsey, not far from the City,His last sicknesse. visiting a Friend at Rederith, whose house he usually frequented when he was in these parts, he complained of some malady, that by his present distemper he mis-doubted might be growing upon him, and though by his friend being earnestly urged, to take some speedy course, by the Physicians advice, for preventing the farther growth of it; yet being too regardlesse of himself, while he neglected so to do, he was suddainly surprized with a violent, and (as the Physician affirms) malignant Fever, which so fiercely set upon him, that in its very first apparent encounter it cast him down upon his couch. And notwithstanding all the means used, that either were desired, or could be procured; no care being omitted, or cost spared, by that worthy Gentlewoman, who most tenderly and intirely affected him, for advice of Physician, who constantly repaired to him, assistance of Apothecary, according to direction with all requisite necessaries supplying him, and diligent attendance, as well of those in the Family, as of some other also for that end procured from abroad, without intermission successively about him; even the Gentlewoman her self (though advised to forbear, in regard of some malignity deemed to be in the disease) frequently resorting to him, sitting by him, and with her own hands offering for his better ease to be helpfull unto him, which yet he was very loath to admit; in all which from the first to the last she expressed a very great measure of cordiall affection unto him, and no lesse an earnest desire, both of his present relief, and future recovery also, if God should see it so good; yet the time being now come wherein the Lord had determined to put an end to his faithfull Servants labourious employments, continued distractions, and restlesse condition, and to translate him hence to a place of endlesse rest, and peace never to be interrupted again; the force of the disease within the space of a few daies fretted asunder those bands that kept soul and body together, and leaving the one behind to be laid up in the bowels of that element whence it had its first original,His Death An. Christi 1618. set the other at full liberty to return unto him, from whom alone it immediately received its existence at first.

During the short time of his sickness, wherein yet through Gods goodnesse he continued free from any notable sense of pain, and was accompanied with much freedom of mind and memory,His behaviour in his sickness. he had his heart and tongue in meditation set wholly upon God, acknowledging his special favour and goodnesse unto him, who had so far forth vouchsafed to cast a gracious eye upon him so vile and loathsome a creature, while he yet continued in his native condition, as to give him an interest by Faith in his Christ; yea so farre farther to grace so unworthy a wretch, as to call him to be a Minister of his Word, and Publisher of his Will, and to make his weak endeavours and worthlesse labours, at any time in any measure efficacious to any of his people, (as he hoped in some sort with some at least they p. 65had been) either for the conversion and bringing of them home unto him, or for the establishing and building of them up in the saving knowledge and belief of his truth, and in the graces and comforts of his Spirit. Withall seriously professing this to be his comfort, the testimony of his conscience in the sight of God bearing witnesse in his behalf, that in sincerity of heart, though with much weaknesse, and amidst many failings, through the whole course of his Ministry, his main end and scope in all his labours and endeavour's had been both in publick and private, to seek the glory of God, the delivery of his truth, the peace of his Church, the spiritual good of his people; in all things to approve himself to him, and continue faithfull with him, who hath been pleased to take him into his service; and desiring now nothing more, then that he might be so enabled through the support of his good Spirit, that by his Christian and comfortable carriage under his Fatherly hand, in this close of his day-work, he might confirm and seal up to others the truth of those things that he had formerly professed and taught. Withall earnestly exhorting all that came about him, to learn now to die before they came to it, His counsell to his friends.to be sure to lay a good foundation in time of life and health, for matter of firm support and sound comfort in time of sickness, and at the hour of death; and to make as much provision and strong preparations against that time as they could, assuring themselves, that they should find all their utmost endeavours and carefullest addresses to be little enough, when they came once to that Work. Amidst these and the like Religious Meditations and Pious Employments, peceiving his desired end now to approach, and having requested prayer to be conceived in his behalf by a special Friend, who had accompanied him most part of his sicknesse, not long after that Office performed by him, he quietly and peaceably resigned his soul into the hands of his blessed Saviour, no lesse ready (doubtlesse) to receive it from him, then himself was desirous and forward to recommend it unto him.

His Funeral rites were performed at Chelsey, where he drew his last breath; most of the Ministers of better note about the City,His Burial. either constantly residing, or occasionally detained there, besides a very great multitude of private persons well affected, repairing thereunto. Who were all there, after the usuall manner in such cases and on such occasions, entertained at the charge and by the bounty of that worthy Gentlewoman of singular Piety, in whose house he deceased. From which place his Corps being conveyed on the shoulders of six of his Reverend Brethren of the Ministry, who of their own accord offered themselves unto that Office, to the place of publick Assembly, where it was to be interred: Master Thomas Gataker his ancient and inward Friend, though full of grief for the loss of one, who so entirely affected him, and whom as well for the high esteem he had of him and his worth, as for that entire affection which he constantly bare to him, was most deservedly exceedingly dear to him; and in regard thereof not so free or fit for performance of that Office; yet enforced himself to preach at his Funerall, and to give, though very briefly, such Testimony of him, as was generally approved of by his Reverend Brethren there present. p. 66And he was indeed a man of very eminent parts,His excellent parts. for sharpnesse of wit, clearnesse of apprehension, soundnesse of judgment, exactnesse of method, and powerfulnesse of delivery, of singular dexterity in beating out perplexed and intricate debates, descrying and discovering where the knots lay, stating of Controversies aright, and dissolving of difficult cases of conscience; to which purpose not only many even from remote parts resorted unto him, either of their own accord, or directed and recommended unto him by other his Brethren of the Ministry, as one most likely of any to give them satisfaction in their doubts; but divers of them also, of good note, (as by their Letters to him may appear) deemed it no disparagement to seek resolution from him in questions of that nature themselves. Neither was he one that kept his talent wrapt up in a Napkin; but though he were cooped up mostly in an obscure corner, through the harsh courses of those, that would not suffer his light to shine forth in any eminent place; yet was he exceeding laborious in those parts wherein he lived, both in private employments at constant set times in the Family, and in publick also, where he might be permitted, though without benefit to himself: that which may appear by abundance of papers and note-books yet extant, though by many casualties a multitude of them have miscarried. Besides his constant course of preaching at Stapenhill, for the most of his time from his first admission into that Family, save only by interruption, through occasion of removals, which neither usually lasted overlong, nor, though distracted him in his Studies, did any whit lightly lessen his labours; he was frequently drawn forth to joyn with other his Reverend Brethren in their meetings and exercises, at Ashbie de la Zouch in Leicester-shire, at Repton in Darby-shire, and at Burton upon Trent; at some of which meetings the manner being, that some one of them preached his hour on the Scipture propounded the meeting before, and the rest or a certain number of them spent afterward, each one his half hour or thereabout on some other portion of Scripture, one being appointed to moderate, by minding each that spake, if occasion were, of the time, and to close up all with some succinct rehearsal of what had been delivered, together with an additament, if it seemed good, of somewhat of his own. It hath been reported by some of those Ministers, who frequented these exercises, that when they could get this our Brother, into that number, or into the chair, which latter he could hardly be drawn into, he was observed to have a reach still beyond the rest; and in regard of his depth of judgment, and dexterity in due ballancing of points controverted, and differences in opinion concerning the same, he was commonly stiled among them The weighing Divine, as hath been attested by that worthy Servant of Christ now at rest with him, Master Oliver Bowles, from the mouths of some of them, who in his hearing related it.

His method in teaching.For his ordinary manner of teaching, it was in some kinde somewhat different from the usuall Method of the most Teachers in those p. 67times. For he seldome made any excursion into the handling of common places, or drew his subject matter out at length by any prolixly continued discourse: But the main frame both of his publick Sermons and private Exercises, for the most part, if not wholly, consisted, after some brief and genuine resolution of the context, and explication of the termes, where need required, of notes and observations, with much variety and great dexterity drawn immediately from the text, and naturally, without constraint, issuing and flowing either from the main body, or from the several limbs of it, with some usefull application annexed thereunto: which though neither of them long insisted upon, yet were wont with that vivacity to be propounded and pressed by him, as well might, and oft did, pierce deep into the hearts of his hearers,The efficacy of his Ministry. and not only rectifie and clear their judgments, but have a powerfull work also upon their affections. Nor was it his manner to quote many Scriptures, finding it troublesome to his memory, and supposing it would be so to his Auditours also: (that which was the practice and opinion also of Doctor Chaderton, as they well know, that heard him on Matth. 21.13.) besides deeming it the lesse needfull, in regard that his Observations being grounded immediately on the Scripture he handled; and by necessary consequence thence deduced, seemed to receive proof sufficient from it. A constant form of prayer he used, as in the Family, so in his publick Ministry;He used a form of prayer, and why. only varying or adding upon speciall accasions, as occurences intervening required; the reason he gave thereof, was this, because hesitation, (which he said he was much subject unto) was in prayer more offensive, then in other discourse; unto prophane ones especially, whereof in mixt multitudes, and meetings, some lightly, too many usually, were; that which he affirmed also to have been Master Cartwrights practice, with whom sometime he conversed.

In such manner of teaching he went over divers portions of Scripture: Among others, the fifty first, The Scriptures which he preached over.and the hundred and nineteenth Psalms: the story of Hanna, 1 Sam. 1. and of Naaman the Syrian, 2 Kings 5. Part of Christs Sermon on the Mount, Matth. 5. the Parable of the Sower, Matth. 13. and of the rich man and Lazarus, Luk. 16. the relation of Christs Temptations, recorded by two of the Evangelists: the whole History of Christs apprehension, araignment and execution; together with Judas his end; the four first Chapters of the Epistle to the Romanes; the three last Chapters of the Epistle to the Hebrews, beside many other more particular parcels of Scripture.

Of this sort was by himself published in his life-time, A Preparation to the Sacrament of the Lords Supper;His works that were published. at first written out at the request of that right religious Lady Darcy for her private use, and by importunity afterwards, made more publick for the farther benefit of others. Therewith many have been much taken, (by means whereof it hath oft been reprinted) and among others one Thomas Foster a Mercer by trade, living at Shefford in Bedfordshire, a p. 68very honest, humble-minded, and sincere-hearted Christian, hath been heard to professe, that that Book, and that part of it more specially wherein are laid down certain marks and signs of Faith and Repentance, was as farre (as he was able to deem) the only outward Instrumentall means of his Conversion, through the gracious co-operation of Gods Spirit working powerfully and efficaciously upon his heart in the reading thereof. And since his death have been published, A Nuptial Sermon, entituled, A Marriage Feast, on Joh. 2.1.—12. A Meditation of Mans mortality, on Psal. 90. His Sermons on the second Epistle to the Thessalonians. A Treatise of Christian Reproof, on Matth. 18.15, 17. And another of the Sin against the Holy Ghost, on Matth. 12.22.—32. which in his life-time he had been by that worthy Knight Sir Robert Darcy, who died not long before him, much pressed to publish; but could not prevail with him, being very backward in that kind, much undervaluing his own works, and very rarely, if ever, satisfying himself in ought that he undertook. For the use of the Family wherein he lived, he drew up a twofold Catechism as they term it; the one somewhat large, the other more brief, for young beginners extracted out of the former; which latter, to save labour of transcribing, he permitted to be printed.

What spare time he had from his constant imployments either private or publick, when not taken off by occasionall Occurrences, he spent most of it principally three waies.

First, In labouring to clear some Points about the Do…trine of Faith and Justification; Concerning the latter whereof, after many debates (first occasioned by some Lectures of Doctor Grey, sometime Fellow of Trinity Colledge in Cambridge, then reading on that Subject at Gresham Colledge in London) that passed to and fro by reciprocall Letters between him and a special friend of his, he began to set upon an exact Treatise of that Argument: Which being upon the first draught of it communicated to that friend of his, upon some advertisements from him, he in divers particulars farther cleared; and being afterward imparted to divers of prime note in either University, he was by them not much encouraged only, but earnestly incited to divulge it; that, which though by much difficulty drawn unto, yet at length he did. And howsoever that accurate piece was but coursely entertained by one of his Brethren in the Ministry, then living in the City, traducing it publickly in a Lecture at Pauls, quarrelling with him who had licensed it for the Presse, and framing a bitter Invective against it; which upon perusall was found so virulent, that he could not get it permitted to passe to the Presse; yet was the work so well approved by many learned and judicious in both our Universities, that divers of them have professed to have received more light thence in that Point, then they had ever before from the writings of any that had dealt in that Argument. Hence it was that having occasion to be sometime on the Act-day at Oxford, one of those that had seen it, and deeming not underservedly of the workwan by the work, p. 69seeing him passe along in a plain russet cloak, is reported by some that were then in company with him, to have said to them, Do you see the man that goeth yonder, in that plain habit, and in that self-neglecting garb and posture? he hath more sound learning in his head, then twenty of us have. And that famous Professor Doctor Prideaux, after his decease, in some company hearing his Son yet surviving then present there named, demanded of him whether that Master Bradshaw, that wrote the Treatise of Justification were his Father? and being informed that he was, he professed himself heartly glad to see the Son of that man, for the old acquaintance he had, not with his Father himself, but with that work of his, for those were the Doctors own words. Hereunto may be added the Verdict of that great and grave Counsellour of State, so much esteemed for his judgment in Law-Cases, the Lord Cook, who visiting the Gentlewoman (by the marriage of her daughter to his Sonne, noe neerly linked to him) at her house where Master Bradshaw then lay sick, and finding the Book lying accidentally in a window, after the perusall of some good part of it, freely professed, That he had seldome read a thing more pithily and pregnanly written.

Nor was this work of his in such esteem at home only, but with other learned also abroad. Among whom Master Lewis Cappel a man of speciall note for variety of learning, and Professor of Divinity at Salmure in France, having received the Book sent him from London by Master Aaron Cappel his kinsman, then Minister of the French Church there, returneth him many thanks for it; requesting him withall, to enquire after the Authors place of abode, and convey from him unto him the Letter enclosed; In the Superscription whereof he stileth him, Doctissimum, ornatissimun, clarissimúmque virum; and in the Subscription, out of his respect to him, and estimation, yea admiration of him, in regard of that piece alone, thus writes of himself, Tui non studiosus modò; sed cultor & admirator. In the body of the Letter, after signification, how upon some occasion being to part with the Book, he had taken pains, before he would let it go out of his hands, to translate it out of English into French, he passeth this censure of it, A little Book, small for bulk, but for learning, wit and acutenesse a grand one.—To speak ingenuously, I never hitherto read ought in any humane writing of Doctrinal Divinity, that so exceedingly liked me; so learnedly, acutely, soundly, pithily, plainly, and yet with admirable brevity is this Argument so fully comprised, and throughly handled therein, I want words wherewith to commend and extoll it according to its due desert; I have oft read it over, and yet never have enough of it; but the oftner I return to it, and read it over again, the more eagerly is mine appetite stirred up unto it, so much light and brightness of learning, wit and art shineth forth in it. And whereas treading then precisely in Piscators steps, he propounded his doubts withall, concerning some particulars, wherein Master Bradshaw seemed to swarve from Piscator; Master Bradshaw to give him p. 70farther satisfaction therein, and yet save much writing at large to and fro, reviewed his own work, and endeavoured to clear those things somewhat better; wherein also he was farthered by some Exceptions from Master Wootton imparted unto himself, unto which he had returned an Answer; and having turned it so revised into Latine, he sent a copy of it in writing unto Master Cappel, who upon receit thereof, wrote back at first briefly, but not long after more fully, in these words; Right worthy Sir, I wrote before to you, that I had received your truly golden Book, enlarged by you and turned into Latine, and that presently I read it over, but in haste; so eager an appetite had I unto it, by reading the other Edition of it in English before. Since that I have read it over again, not once, but often, and taking leasure thereunto. Which the oftner I read over, the more it pleaseth me, and is approved of by me, so accurately and exactly is it composed by you, I hope this birth and issue of your mind will find approbation with peaceable and moderate dispositions, on whether side soever, albeit you condescend not unto them in all things that they require. You so space in the middle between either opinion, that neither of them ought to be displeased with you, if they truly love peace and concord.

Thus that learned man word for word translated out of his Letters in Latine, which in the same language have been represented also, and published elsewhere. Whereby may appear, what entertainment, approbation, and estimation this Treatise (which yet the Author speaks so meanly of himself in private Letters to his Friends) found with the learned in forreign parts, and he himself also, where otherwise wholly unknown, for it. And whosoever shall with a regardfull eye read over the generally well approved, and deservedly much esteemed writings of those worthy Servants of God, now with the Lord, Master William Pemble and Master Samuel Torsel, concerning this subject, collated with this of Master Bradshaw, which came forth some good space before either of them had writ ought; he shall easily discern, on whose foundation they built, in whose steps they trod, with whose heifer they ploughed, at what Torch they lighted their Tapers, and from whence they received much of their light in that Argument. For it may be with good ground of truth be averred, that amids the extream opposition of Divines in this point dissenting, this our Brother did herein beat out such a middle tract between them, as appears not to have been formerly discovered by any, wherein these two men of special note coming after him, for the main matter of their principles, have kept close to his footsteps, in the path by him cut out and cleared to their hands. Of this latter in Latine, a Copy being sent over by him to Doctor Ames not long before his dicease, was by him not long after it printed. Unto this his purpose was to have added a Treatise of Justifying Faith, the proper nature, peculiar act, and Office of it in that work, and great pity it was that such and head as this one piece shews him to have had, was not set apart for such like employments. p. 71How many points of much difficulty might haply been clear, if one of his parts had received encouragement, and means of support, to apply himself and his main studies unto so usefull an employment? Surely what he saith of another, might be well said of him, That if such as he was, had the handling of Controversies, Questions would not be so infinite and intricate oft as they are, and being aright stated, some that now fight most eagerly one against another, would be found to agree, being brought at length aright to understand either other.

A second businesse whereunto he applied himself, about which he took much pains, was in the discussion of the matters then in controvesie, for which he so much suffered, about Subscription, the Ceremonies then pressed, the Civil Power, and the Prelatical, in affairs of that nature. Of this kind discourses penned by him were underhand printed, and published, as they could be secretly got out and dispersed, these folowing: A Protestation of Supremacy: The English Puritanism: A Treatise of True and False Worship: Twelve Arguments against the Ceremonies, and conformity thereunto: Of the Nature of things Indifferent. Of which Argument also he wrote in Latine an Answer to Master Gabriel Powel, which yet was not published. And it is well known to some yet surviving, that the greatest part of that which was done in that grand Controversie with Doctor Downham concerning Episcopacy, for the main matter of it, came forth of his forge; (howsoever of his labour and paines therein taken, another bare the name, and received the reward of the work) the tart and bitter language only, wherewith it was rather pickled then seasoned, proceeding from another pen, somewhat too much steeped in Vineger and Gall, that which he complaineth of, as much misliking, in a Letter to a Friend: for he was a man of a very mild and meek spirit, and of a moderate disposition; and how farre forth in his judgment and practice he could have acknowledged, submitted unto, and complied with some kind of Superintendency, or Episcopacy, as it is commonly stiled, may appear by his demands propounded to Master Francis Johnson in his Answer to his Reasons for Seperation, of which more anon. Divers other subjects he had set upon, and made entrance into, but afterward laid aside; whether for want of time and opportunity, or for what other causes, uncertain: among others, of the former sort, was a Refutation in Latine of Dutch Thomsons Diatribae, de amissione & intercisione justificationis & gratiae; which upon notice given him of Doctor Abbots undertaking of that task, he surceased; of this latter sort, in English, An Answer to Master Hookers Ecclesiasticall Polity, a work so much cried up; and admired by the most, and it were greatly to be wished, that he had had life and leasure (had the Lord seen it good) to have gone through with it: but the Lord had otherwise disposed.

In the third and last place, amids these his labours about, and suffering for those controversed matters, he bent his forces as much also another way; to wit, against Sectaries and Separatists. To p. 72this purpose he had divers bickerings with them, and with some of the chief leaders among them,His zeal against Sectaries and Separatists. both by Conferences with them, and by writings against them and the courses taken by them, whereby many were stayed from going those wayes, and some also reclaimed and brought back again. Among other, at the request of a Gentleman of Lincolns-Inne, (for the stay of some that were staggering, and warping that way, that one Master Clifton had gone before them, seduced by Master Smith sometime Fellow of Christs Colledge, who had thrice been baptized) having imparted to him a Relation in writing, of what had past between Smith and Clifton, who by that their mutuall Collation pretended, as upon good and just grounds, being convict in conscience, to have past over to him; he wrote a large Discourse, wherein he discovered a great deal of weaknesse, as well in the Arguments of the one, as in the Answers of the other; thereby making it manifestly to appear, by what slight and ill-wrought twine rather then twist, that might have easily been snapt asunder; Master Clifton had been drawn away, and induced to leave his former station, and abandon his wonted profession; nor was his labour herein without its desired successe with those, for whom it was undertaken: As also thereby he took occasion to write A Defence of the Baptism of Infants, against the same parties. Against Master Francis Johnsons Reasons for Separation, he wrote a Book entituled, The Unreasonablness of Separation, and that upon this occasion. One that was deemed to be a man of an ingenuous disposition, was earnestly solicited by some with whom he conversed, to withdraw from our Congregations, and seeming to be much perplexed with Master Johnsons Arguments, was yet perswaded by some of his discreet Friends, to do nothing inconsiderately in a businesse of that concernment and consequence, but to consider seriously first of it, and have conference with some grave and godly Ministers, such as he deemed as well judicious as consciencious; whereby it might be descried, whether the grounds that he was in this course intended to go upon, were such as would endure triall or no; this advice of theirs was hearkened unto, and choice made by himself of Master Bradshaw and another, whom he conceived to be both understanding and moderate men.A Disputation. The place for conference was agreed upon to be in a common Friends house, and the meeting intended to be very private, not above two or three of that party, besides himself, the two Ministers and those of the house; but such of them whose presence alone he desired, having acquainted divers others of their complices therewith, a multitude of them intruded themselves. Now in regard of such an unexpected company, it was deemed meet to proceed the more warily. And the party in the conference principally concerned, being put to his choice, whether he would Argue or Answer, was willing rather to Argue, and to make use of Master Johnsons Arguments, then to frame others of his own: that which very well pleased those of the separating side, as deeming Master Johnsons Arguments unanswerable. p. 73To prevent mis-reports, it was mutually agreed, that two persons, one of either side, should write down each Argument, as it was propounded, and each Answer, as it was returned thereunto, and should read audibly, what had passed in the prosecution of any Argument at the close of it, before entry upon a new, which was accordingly done; and so many of Master Johnsons Reasons discussed as the straits of time would permit; in pursuit whereof was so evidently shewed how grossely Master Johnson had abused divers passages of Scripture, quoted for proof of those propositions, whereunto he had affixed them, that the whole company of them were exceedingly puzled with it, and some of them to save their Champions credit, would fain have fastned some fault upon the Printers, but could not well find how to do it. The evening coming on, the debate ceased for that day: and Copies on either side taken, being read, collated, and interchangeably delivered, the conference was adjourned till afternoon the next day, what time the other Arguments were to be scanned. But the party, whom the businesse concerned, being perswaded by the rest of them, (as it seemed) to desist, did the next morning make known his unwillingnesse for some pretended causes to go on; and so it brake off. Howbeit Master Bradshaw having waded so farre in examination of Master Johnsons Reasons, was much importuned to proceed on therein, and to go through with the rest, considering how needfull a work it was, and how usefull it might prove. Which being at length drawn unto, and that the rather because Master Johnson had fetcht some Arguments from grounds laid by him in that Treatise against Conformity, which it stood Master Bradshaw upon therefore to consider of, and give satisfaction unto; that which was drawn up by him, after perusall and approbation of some, on whose judgment he much relied, was by their advice sent over to Master Ames, who with an Epistle of his own prefixed, caused it to be printed in those parts, where he then abode. Neither was there any Reply ever returned unto it, in defence of Master Johnson, either by himself, while he lived, or by any other in his behalf, so long as Master Bradshaw survived; only many years after Master Bradshaws decease, an attempt was made against it by one Master Can of Amsterdam, which was not long after returned back upon its Author by a Friend of the deceased.

And indeed to Separation he was ever very adverse, and to withdrawing from the publick places of Assembly, or from any part of Gods Worship there used. To which purpose shall be related out of his papers in his own words the ensuing passages; delivered by him in a Sermon at Longford on Matth. 5.1. It is the great mercy of God toward us, that we have no cause to seek the word in deserts and wildernesses, in woods and caves and desolate mountains; but such worthy edifices as these to assemble in, dedicated only to this use. And where Gods people have by publick authority such places as these appointed and allowed ordinarily to assemble and meet in, we are fouly at least to suspect those Assemblies, p. 74and the worship done therein, which forsake those places, and fly into woods and deserts. It is true, that among the Jews at this time there was the Temple, and besides sundry Synagogues, answeriing to these Churches of ours; and which is more, the doors of the Pulpits were generally open to Christ himself; and yet our Saviour often taught in other places, but this was upon extraordinary occasions, such as seldome or never fall out with us; and so carried by our Saviour, that there was no Schisme or Separation made by him, or any of his speciall Disciples or followers, from the Assemblies then established. And after concerning the places of Assembly themselves: It is indeed an honour, that those which are in Authority and ability, should do to the Worship of God, to see that comely and seemly places be dedicated and separated from other common uses thereunto; and it is a disgrace and contempt to Gods Worship, when men that may remedy it, care not how base and contemptible the place of Gods Worship is; when men have not that care of the place, where the holy Assembly of God meets, as they have of their barns and stables. As also concerning some circumstances of Gesture used in them; From Christ sitting to teach, we learn in such externall behaviour to follow our Saviours example; that is, in matters not doubtfull, and controversal, at least to conform our selves to such outward fashions as are generally used in those times, and that Church wherein we live. For example, in the like case; It is the general custom in our Church, that the Ministers preach standing in a seat higher then the People, and bare-headed: and this gesture is no peculiar gesture, but borrowed from the common practice of Orators and such persons as make speeches to solemn Assemblies. It's meet therefore in such cases, that we should not be singular and odde, but conform to the received fashion of the Church. So that if we should sit and preach as Christ did, we should not conform to Christ; because we should cross that, which was the ground why Christ sate. Lastly, concerning repair to all parts of Gods service, from those words; And his Disciples came to him, &c. This also is a matter of order, that, as much as may be, divine Worship should begin, when the Congregation is assembled and come together. Therefore the Members of an Assembly should make more conscience then usually they do of coming together sooner. I urge this the rather, because it is a general fault in our Assemblies, not committed only by them, that care not which end of Religion goeth forward, but generally of most, that so they come to some part of Gods Worship, it is well enough, especially if they can come time enough to the beginning of the Sermon. Hence many times the Minister with the Clerk are fain to perform a great part of the publick Worship of God alone, or with one or two at the most, and the rest of the Church come dropping in one after another at their own leasure; as though the publick prayers of the Church, and reading the Scriptures were a Worship that concerned the Minister, and Clerk only, and not the whole Church. This is the rather related, and here inserted, because not published, to manifest the moderation of the man, notwithstanding so much hard measure as he sustained from the hands of those, who so grievously abused the power they had in those times.

p. 75Thus have you a rude and crude delineation of this blessed and faithfull Servant of Gods course and race, whose life was indeed as a continuall peregrination here upon earth; extracted, partly from Letters written to him by others, communicated, for the better making up of this module, by Master Samuel Hildersham, Pastor of the Church at West-Felton in Shropshire, Sonne to that famous man of pious memory Master Arthur Hildersham, and Master John Bradshaw, at present Minister of the Word at Echingham in Sussex, Sonne to this worthy Champion of Christ Jesus, both genuine heirs of their Parents best parts; and partly from relations of his own and others of good credit, his Letters especially to a bosome Friend, whom he was wont from time to time thereby to acquaint with most occurrents of note that befell him, or did any way concern him, while they lived at a distance. It might have been more exactly and intirely performed, had not some Letters of his been lost, and a bundle of others to him miscarried, torn by Rats in his absence from the place where they lay, the losse whereof in a Letter he much laments, and wishes that as many of his Books, to save them, had undergone the like ill-usage.

His death was much lamented, as by all that knew his parts, and how usefull he might farther have been to Gods Church, had the Lord been pleased to lengthen out the line of his life; so more especially by the well-affected of that Family, whereunto he had adhered; but in a degree farre above the rest by the head thereof, Mistresse Katharine Redich the relict of Master Alexander Redich, deprived now of a second stay, and principal support, for spiritual helps especially, since her Husbands decease; a very tender-hearted Gentlewoman, much addicted to hospitality, and of very remarkeable devotion and piety, reported by those who were inwardly acquainted with her more retired courses, to have been wont constantly to spend privately twice a day, at several set times an hour at least, in meditation and prayer mixed oft with many tears. She good soul, was so affected with his departure, and so feelingly apprehensive of her own losse thence ensuing, that albeit she survived him about, if not above some twelve years; yet was it observed by those that conversed with her, that to her dying day, she could very seldome with dry eyes, either speak of him, or hear him spoken of by others; that which made divers forbear speaking of him, what they well might, in her presence, for the renewing of her grief. Nor was her hearty affection to him, and due esteem of him manifested in such kind of expressions alone, (where, in even counterfeits, though not so constantly, yet can at sometimes exceed) but it was made to appear in beneficence to her ability, and in carefull provision to her power for those he left behind him; for what by her Husband was intended, though she met with many obstructions in the pursuit of it, the state was so entangled, she at length got made good, and setled according to his desire. And for his eldest Sonne, (for he left three, whereof two yet survive, and a Daughter,) being set apart for a Scholar, she maintained him at Grammar-School, untill he was fitted for the p. 76University, and at the University in part also, so long as she lived.

With those in general, among whom he lived, and that knew him but at a distance, he left behind him the estimation of one very studious, humble, plain, honest, loving, free, liberal, charitable and compassionate. Very studious they deemed him, because they seldome saw him walking abroad without a Book in his hand; and reading usually, if alone, on it, as he walked, though he walked commonly somewhat fast, being therein farthered through the quicknesse of his eye, and the steadinesse of his hand. And for his humility, it so readily offered it self to the eye in his whole deportment, that they could not but take notice of it, reading it as written in text letters, therein, that saw ought at all in him. A plain man he was, as Jacob, without welt or gard; and a plain-dealing man, as Nathaniel, without craft or guile; free from all courtship, either for counterfeit, or complement. Among the meaner sort he was the more beloved, because, though his means were but mean and scant, yet they perceived him to be of a free and liberal disposition; and were willing therefore to work with him ordinarily before any other,His Charity. because he used to give them somewhat above their hire or agreement, which few others did. His charitable mind and tender-heartednesse many waies manifested it self. It hath been known, that he hath borrowed money, when he had none about him, or by him, to relieve some that have been in want; and to have been as carefull to repay it, as forward to part with it. While he was at Chatham, some gallies that had sometime been built for service, and lay a long time after there idle, being found unusefull for our Seas; yet being then on foot, and some put into them; he walked down one day with some company to see the manner of them: which when he had viewed, it seemed to him so dismal a sight, to see men, Christian men, put to such kind of servitude, that he could not endure to behold it without tears, and having given them a little money, so left them, returning back in a very sad and pensive moode. Yea, he was one of those, whom Solomon speaks of, whose commiseration reacheth even to the bruit beasts, which he could not endure to see unmercifully used: and would oft say he was perswaded that men took too much liberty to themselves in killing and misusing some, even contemptible creatures, without cause. Riding homeward sometime with his Sonne behind him, whom he had taken out with him, the waies being bad and deep, and the beast that bare them travelling heavily and wearisomely, he took occasion thereby to enter into a discourse to the lad behind him, what hardship the poor unreasonable creature was put to, to be serviceable to us, what misery such sustained for mans sinne; and so affectionately he spake of it, that to his Sonne, whom he spake to, he seemed to weep with it.

He may be thought to have had some presage of his end, approaching, before his last accesse to the City. For it is reported by his Sonne now in the Ministry, and treading in his Fathers steps, that being very earnest in soliciting of him, that he might then go up to London with him, which since he sucked, it seems he had never seen, he willed him, p. 77not to be so desirous to see London; for whensoever he saw London, he should see it to his cost. And to his great grief indeed he did, coming up with his Mother a heavy Widow, not long after his Fathers departure hence, and funerall rites here performed.

We shall close all, with that free and ingenuous Character, which that Illustrious late Bishop of Norwich, his old, true and loving Friend (he is pleased so to stile himself in some Letters to him) truly giveth of himself: He was, saith he, of a strong brain, and a free spirit; Doctor Halls character of him.not suffering himself for small differences of judgment to be alienated from his Friends; to whom notwithstanding his seeming austerity, he was very pleasing in his conversation, being full of witty and harmlesse urbanity: he vas very strong and eager in arguing, hearty in his friendship, regardless of the world, a despiser of complement, a lover of reality, full of digested learning, and excellent notions; a painfull labourer in Gods work, and now, no doubt, gloriously rewarded.

This Life was drawn up by my Reverend, Learned, and worthy Friend Mr. Thomas Gataker of Rederich.